RTHK: US, UK deny claim of prisoner deal with Iran

The United States on Sunday denied a report by Iran's state television that the arch-foes had reached a prisoner swap deal in exchange for the release of US$7 billion frozen Iranian oil funds under US sanctions in other countries.

Iranian state television said on Sunday that Tehran would free four Americans accused of spying in exchange for four Iranians held in the United States and the release of the frozen Iranian funds.

The US government denied that an agreement has been reached. Iran's envoy to the United Nations, Majid Takht Ravanchi, said the report could not be confirmed, adding that Tehran has always called for a full prisoner exchange with Washington.

The state TV, quoting an unidentified Iranian official, also said British-Iranian national Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe would be released once Britain had paid off a debt on military equipment owed to Tehran.

A British Foreign Office official played down that report.

Iran and world powers are holding talks to revive the 2015 nuclear accord that Washington abandoned three years ago and reimposed sanctions on Tehran.

Iranian officials said last month that an interim deal could be a way to gain time for a lasting settlement that involved unfreezing Iranian funds blocked under US sanctions.

"Informed source says Biden administration has agreed to release four Iranian prisoners jailed for bypassing US sanctions in exchange for four American 'spies'," the Iranian state TV report said on Sunday.

"Release of Nazanin Zaghari in exchange for UK's payment of its 400 million pound debt to Iran has also been finalized. The source also said the Biden administration has agreed to pay Iran US$7 billion," it said.

In Washington, State Department spokesman Ned Price said, "Reports that a prisoner swap deal has been reached are not true."

Ron Klain, White House chief of staff, also denied the report. "Unfortunately, that report is untrue. There is no agreement to release these four Americans," Klain said on CBS "Face the Nation." (Reuters)

This story has been published on: 2021-05-02. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Hong Kong: CHP follows up on mutant strain case

The Centre for Health Protection today said it is following up on a positive imported COVID-19 case with a preliminary test result involving the N501Y mutant strain.

The case involves a 28-year-old woman who arrived in Hong Kong from India on April 4 and underwent quarantine at Regal Oriental Hotel from April 4 to 25.

Upon completion of quarantine, she returned to her residence at Beauty Mansion, 69-71A Kimberley Road in Tsim Sha Tsui.

She sought medical advice on April 26 at Queen Elizabeth Hospital where her COVID-19 test result was negative after a sample was collected at the hospitals accident and emergency department.

In accordance with the requirements of compulsory testing, she underwent the 26th day testing upon arrival in Hong Kong at a community testing centre on April 30 and the result was indeterminate.

She was arranged to be admitted to the hospital for further testing on May 2. The test result was preliminary positive and she also tested positive for COVID-19 antibodies.

As the N501Y mutant strain is with high transmissibility, the centre explained that it decided to carry out prudent measures on infection control and prevention.

Given the possible transmissibility of the patient during her presence in the community from April 25 to May 2, for prudences sake, the centre will arrange 21 days of compulsory quarantine for asymptomatic residents of all units in the building concerned.

Symptomatic residents will be sent to the hospital for treatment.

Separately, the centre said it is continuing its follow-up on three confirmed local COVID-19 cases with test results involving the N501Y mutant strain.

It found that the people connected with the three cases had been to Citygate in Tung Chung on April 11 and that two of them had patronised Curry Lounge, a restaurant at SeaView Crescent in Tung Chung, on the same day.

The centre added that the Government will issue a compulsory testing notice to all people who had been present at the two premises on April 11.

This story has been published on: 2021-05-03. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
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Black and Latino neighborhoods in the 30 most populous U.S. cities had fewer pharmacies than white or diverse neighborhoods in 2007-2015, USC research shows, suggesting that 'pharmacy deserts'- like so-called food deserts-may be an overlooked contributor to persistent racial and ethnic health disparities.

Pharmacies are increasingly vital points of care for essential health services. In addition to filling prescriptions to treat chronic health conditions, pharmacists dispense emergency doses of naloxone to reverse opioid overdoses, contraceptives to prevent unplanned pregnancy and COVID-19 testing and vaccinations.

But many neighborhoods in major cities such as Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, and Memphis lack convenient access to a pharmacy, according to research published published today in the May issue of the journal Health Affairs.

"We focused on cities because of racial/ethnic residential segregation and the fact that more than 80% of the Black and Latino population in the U.S. live in cities," said senior author Dima Mazen Qato, Hygeia Centennial Chair and associate professor of pharmacy at the USC School of Pharmacy and senior fellow at the USC Schaeffer Center for Health Policy & Economics.

"Our findings suggest that addressing disparities in geographic access to pharmaciesincluding pharmacy closuresis imperative to improving access to essential medications and other health care services in segregated minority neighborhoods," said Qato, who directs the Program on Medicines and Public Health.

"One in three neighborhoods throughout these cities were pharmacy deserts, affecting nearly 15 million people," said Jenny S. Guadamuz, study first author and Postdoctoral Fellow at the USC Schaeffer Center and the USC Program on Medicines and Public Health at the USC School of Pharmacy. "However, limited access to pharmacies disproportionately impacts racial/ethnic minorities8.3 million Black and Latino residents of these cities live in deserts."

Researchers focused on census tracts/neighborhoods in cities with populations of 500,000 or more. Census tracts, smaller than ZIP code areas, generally have a population size between 1,200 and 8,000 people. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau's American Community Survey established neighborhood characteristics including total population, and percentage of the population by race/ethnicity, low-income status and vehicle ownership. Pharmacy locations and types of pharmacies came from National Council for Prescription Drug Programs.

Researchers overlaid census tract maps with pharmacy locations. Neighborhoods where the average distance to the nearest pharmacy was 1.0 mile or more were classified as pharmacy deserts. In neighborhoods that were low income and had at least 100 households with no vehicle, the qualifying distance dropped to 1/2 mile or more, to account for transportation barriers.

"Traveling a mile to get your prescription medications may be convenient for people that own a car. Traveling a mile, or even  a mile, may be difficult for people who live in low-income neighborhoods and don't drive, particularly older adults who rely on walking or public transportation," said Qato.

Prevalence of pharmacy deserts varied widely across cities. In New York and Philadelphia, for example, fewer than 10 percent of neighborhoods met the definition of pharmacy deserts. On the other hand, more than 60 percent of neighborhoods in Indianapolis, San Antonio, and Charlotte were pharmacy deserts.

In all cities, segregated Black or Latino neighborhoods, or both, were more likely to be pharmacy deserts than white or diverse neighborhoods. These disparities were most pronounced in Los Angeles, Chicago, Albuquerque, Dallas, Memphis, Boston, Milwaukee, Baltimore and Philadelphia.

"We observed stark disparities in Los Angeles, where one-third of all Black and Latino neighborhoods were pharmacy deserts, particularly neighborhoods in South Central LA, including Florence, Broadway-Manchester and Watts," said Guadamuz.

Among all the cities examined, the most pronounced disparities were in Chicago, where 1% of white neighborhoods were pharmacy deserts in comparison to 33% of Black neighborhoods in the South Side neighborhoods of Chatham, West Pullman and Greater Grand Crossing, Guadamuz added.

The researchers said policies could help address the situation. For example, federal, state, and local governments could deploy targeted grants and tax benefits to encourage pharmacies to locate in pharmacy deserts. Other incentives could motivate pharmacies to offer services such as home delivery to improve access.

"Increasing Medicaid and Medicare pharmacy reimbursement rates for prescription medications might encourage pharmacies to open in areas of need," Guadamuz said. "To ensure existing pharmacies don't close, policymakers need to make sure that stores serving Black and Latino areas are not excluded from pharmacy networks."
Aging potheads are now past 50 and still puffing away, but new research shows that many don't disclose this to their doctors.

Folks who use marijuana for medical reasons are more likely to tell their doctors about it than recreational users. Still, just a fraction of medical marijuana users opened up about their use, the study found.

"Older adults may worry about how doctors would respond, as stigma about cannabis use as a psychoactive substance is still prevalent," said study author Namkee Choi. She is the Louis and Ann Wolens Centennial Chair in Gerontology in the Steve Hicks School of Social Work at the University of Texas at Austin.

This don't-ask, don't-tell scenario can be fraught with risk, Choi noted.

"It is really important to discuss with your doctor/s who know your preexisting conditions and medications that you are taking, and make a decision [about cannabis use] that will increase your safety and decrease any potential adverse effects," Choi stressed.

Of more than 17,000 Americans aged 50 and older who took part in the 2018 and 2019 U.S. National Survey on Drug Use and Health, nearly one in 10 had used cannabis over the past year. Close to 20% used it for a medical reason, such as pain relief or to treat depression. Medical marijuana users were more likely to use it more frequently, with 40% using marijuana between 200 and 365 days a year.

Older cannabis users had higher rates of mental illness, alcohol use disorder and nicotine dependence compared with their peers who did not use cannabis, but medical users were less likely to have alcohol problems than recreational users, the study found.

Those using cannabis for health reasons were more likely than recreational users to buy it at a medical dispensary and less likely to get it for free or at a party, the study authors noted.

While marijuana use is legal in a growing number of states, residents in a state where cannabis use is not yet legalized may keep quiet due to fear of arrest, Choi added.

The findings were published April 29 in The American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse.

This study taps into a big issue, said Dr. Scott Krakower, a child and adolescent psychiatrist at Zucker Hillside Hospital in Glen Oaks, N.Y.

"We want people to be as honest and open with their doctor as possible," he said. "Screening for substance abuse is important, and doctors need to ask about marijuana use in a non-judgmental way."

If you don't ask, you won't know, and marijuana use is also associated with other risky behaviors, Krakower said. If you are using it for pain or to get a better night's sleep, there may be something more effective out there, he added.

"Your doctor can't help if he or she doesn't have all the relevant information," Krakower said.

Dr. Lawrence Brown Jr., CEO of START Treatment & Recovery Centers in Brooklyn, N.Y., also encouraged people to discuss their cannabis use with their doctor.

"You can even just ask about medical marijuana use in general," suggested Brown, who was not involved with the new study. "Unless there is a robust conversation, there is a risk of adverse events because of drug-drug interactions," he said. For example, taking sedatives to sleep and using cannabis may cause too much sleepiness.

More information: Learn more about how marijuana can affect your health at Learn more about how marijuana can affect your health at the U.S. National Institute on Drug Abuse

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A Russian medical worker prepares a shot of Russia's Sputnik V coronavirus vaccine as people wearing face masks to protect against coronavirus queue to get a shot of Russia's Sputnik V coronavirus vaccine in a mobile vaccination center in Simferopol, Crimea, Tuesday, April 13, 2021. Alexander Dragan, a data analyst who has been tracking vaccination in the Russian regions, says Russia is currently vaccinating 200,000-205,000 people a day. In order to immunize 30 million people by mid-June, it needs to be nearly double that: "We need to start vaccinating 370,000 people a day, like, beginning tomorrow," Dragan told the AP. (AP Photo/Alexander Polegenko)

While at the Park House shopping mall in northern Moscow, Vladimir Makarov saw it was offering the coronavirus vaccine to customers, so he asked how long it would take.

"It turned out it's simple here10 minutes," he said of his experience last month.

But Makarov, like many Muscovites, still decided to put off getting the Sputnik V shot.

Russia boasted last year of being first in the world to authorize a coronavirus vaccine, but it now finds itself lagging in getting its population immunized. That has cast doubt on whether authorities will reach their ambitious goal of vaccinating more than 30 million of country's 146 million people by mid-June and nearly 69 million by August.

The vaccine reluctance comes as shots are readily available in the capital to anyone 18 or older at more than 200 state and private clinics, shopping malls, food courts, hospitalseven a theater.

As of mid-April, over 1 million of Moscow's 12.7 million residents, or about 8%, have received at least one shot, even though the campaign began in December.

That percentage is similar for Russia as a whole. Through April 27, only 12.1 million people have gotten at least one shot and only 7.7 million, or 5%, have been fully vaccinated. That puts Russia far behind the U.S., where 43% have gotten at least one shot, and the European Union with nearly 27%.

Two men, one of them wearing a face mask, stand near a vaccination point decorated with the poster showing a portrait of Dr. Denis Protsenko and words reading "Get vaccinated against covid-19!!" at VDNKh, The Exhibition of Achievements of National Economy in Moscow, Russia, Friday, April 2, 2021. Moscow is one of the few places in the world where one can get vaccinated against COVID-19 within hours of deciding to do so. Free doses of the domestically developed Sputnik V shot are readily available for anyone 18 or older at more than 200 vaccination points in state and private clinics, shopping malls, food courts, hospitals and even a theater. (AP Photo/Alexander Zemlianichenko)

Data analyst Alexander Dragan, who tracks vaccinations across Russia, said last week the country was giving shots to 200,000-205,000 people a day. In order to hit the mid-June target, it needs to be nearly double that.

"We need to start vaccinating 370,000 people a day, like, beginning tomorrow," Dragan told The Associated Press.

To boost demand, Moscow officials began offering coupons worth 1,000 rubles ($13) to those over 60 who get vaccinatednot a small sum for those receiving monthly pensions of about 20,000 rubles ($260).

Still, it hasn't generated much enthusiasm. Some elderly Muscovites told AP it was difficult to register online for the coupons or find grocery stores that accepted them.

Other regions also are offering incentives. Authorities in Chukotka, across the Bering Strait from Alaska, promised seniors 2,000 rubles for getting vaccinated, while the neighboring Magadan region offered 1,000 rubles. A theater in St. Petersburg offered discounted tickets for those presenting a vaccination certificate.

A monorail car rolls near a gait billboard reading "You're over 60! Get vaccinated immediately!" in Moscow, Russia, Sunday, April 4, 2021. To boost the demand, officials in Moscow this week started offering 1,000-ruble ($13) coupons to people over 60 for getting vaccinated. So far, the incentive hasn't elicited a lot of enthusiasm among elderly Muscovites. While some told the AP the initiative was helpful for those living off a relatively small pension, others complained about difficulties registering online to get the coupons or finding grocery stores where they could be used. (AP Photo/Alexander Zemlianichenko)

Russia's lagging vaccination rates hinge on several factors, including supply. Russian drug makers have been slow to ramp up mass production, and there were shortages in March in many regions.

So far, only 28 million two-dose sets of all three vaccines available in Russia have been produced, with Sputnik V accounting for most of them, and only 17.4 million have been released into circulation after undergoing quality control.

Waiting lists for the shot remain long in places. In the Sverdlovsk region, the fifth most-populous in Russia, 178,000 people were on a wait list by mid-April, regional Deputy Health Minister Yekaterina Yutyaeva told AP.

On April 28, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said there are enough vaccines available in Russia, adding that demand was the defining factor in the country's vaccination rate.

An elderly man wearing a face mask to protect against coronavirus receives a shot of Russia's Sputnik V coronavirus vaccine in front of working visual journalists at a vaccination point in Moscow, Russia, Wednesday, April 7, 2021. To boost the demand, officials in Moscow this week started offering 1,000-ruble ($13) coupons to people over 60 for getting vaccinated. So far, the incentive hasn't elicited a lot of enthusiasm among elderly Muscovites. (AP Photo/Pavel Golovkin)

Another factor in Russians' reluctance over Sputnik V was the fact that it was rolled out even as large-scale testing to ensure its safety and efficacy was still ongoing. But a study published in February in the British medical journal The Lancet said the vaccine appeared safe and highly effective against COVID-19, according to a trial involving about 20,000 people in Russia.

A poll in February by Russia's top independent pollster, the Levada Center, showed that only 30% of respondents were willing to get Sputnik V, one of three domestically produced vaccines available. The poll had a margin of error of 3.4 percentage points.

Dragan, the data analyst, says one possible explanation for the reluctance is the narrative from authorities that they have tamed the outbreak, even if that assessment might be premature.

Germany's Enno Lenze, center, and Uwe Keim, center left, both wearing face masks to protect agains coronavirus, enter the hall after arriving at Sheremetyevo airport, outside Moscow, Russia, Thursday, April 15, 2021. The abundance of vaccines in the Russian capital has been drawing in vaccine tourists, not just from other regions, where the wait for a shot is longer, but foreigners, too. A group of Germans traveled to Moscow earlier this month and got their first shots right at their hotel. (AP Photo/Pavel Golovkin)

With most virus restrictions lifted and government officials praising the Kremlin's pandemic response, few have motivation to get the shot, he said, citing an attitude of, "If the outbreak is over, why would I get vaccinated?"

Vasily Vlassov, a public health expert at the Higher School of Economics in Moscow, echoed Dragan's sentiment and also pointed to inconsistent signals from officials and media.

"Russians in 2020 were bombarded with contradictory messagesfirst about (the coronavirus) not being dangerous and being just a cold, then that it was a deadly infection," he told AP. "Then they were banned from leaving their homes."

Another narrative, he said, was that foreign vaccines were dangerous but Russian-produced ones were not. State TV reported adverse reactions linked to Western vaccines while celebrating Sputnik V's international success.

A group of people some of them wearing face masks walk past the poster showing a portrait of Dr. Denis Protsenko and words reading "Get vaccinated against covid-19!!" Near a vaccination point at VDNKh, The Exhibition of Achievements of National Economy in Moscow, Russia, Friday, April 2, 2021. Moscow is one of the few places in the world where one can get vaccinated against COVID-19 within hours of deciding to do so. To boost the demand, officials in Moscow this week started offering 1,000-ruble ($13) coupons to people over 60 for getting vaccinated. (AP Photo/Alexander Zemlianichenko)

A proper media campaign promoting vaccinations didn't begin on state TV until late March, observers and news reports note. Videos on the Channel 1 national network featured celebrities and other public figures talking about their experience but didn't show them getting injected. President Vladimir Putin said he received the shot about the same time, but not on camera.

"Fruitful ground for conspiracy theorists," said Dragan, who also works in marketing.

Rumors about the alleged dangers of vaccines actually surged on social media in December, when Russia began administering the shots, and have continued steadily since then, said social anthropologist Alexandra Arkhipova.

The rumors combined with other factorsthe pseudoscience on Russian TV, vaccine distribution problems and an uneven rollout of the promotional campaignto hamper the immunization drive, Arkhipova told AP.

Germany's tourist Uwe Keim, center, wearing a face mask to protect against coronavirus gets the first shot of Russia's Sputnik V coronavirus vaccine in Moscow, Russia, Friday, April 16, 2021. Uwe Keim, 46-year-old software developer from Stuttgart, told The Associated Press after getting his jab that he isn't worried about depriving some Russian of their shot, as he believes "there are more vaccines available here in Russia than is demanded by the people here." (AP Photo/Pavel Golovkin)

Uwe Keim wearing a face mask to protect against coronavirus walks in Red square after getting the first shot of Russia's Sputnik V coronavirus vaccine in Moscow, Russia, Friday, April 16, 2021. Keim, 46-year-old software developer from Stuttgart, told The Associated Press after getting his jab that he isn't worried about depriving some Russian of their shot, as he believes "there are more vaccines available here in Russia than is demanded by the people here." (AP Photo/Pavel Golovkin)

A man wearing a face mask to protect against coronavirus leaves a room after vaccinating with Russia's Sputnik V coronavirus vaccine at a shopping center in Nizhny Novgorod, Russia, Friday, April 2, 2021. Russia has boasted about being the first country in the world to authorize a coronavirus vaccine and rushed to roll it out earlier than other countries, even as large-scale testing necessary to ensure its safety and effectiveness was still ongoing. (AP Photo/Roman Yarovitcyn)

A woman wearing a face mask to protect against coronavirus walks past a poster reading "vaccination against COVID-19" at the GUM, the State Department store, near Red Square in Moscow, Russia, Wednesday, March 31, 2021. Russia has boasted about being the first country in the world to authorize a coronavirus vaccine and rushed to roll it out earlier than other countries, even as large-scale testing necessary to ensure its safety and effectiveness was still ongoing. (AP Photo/Alexander Zemlianichenko)

People walk past posters reading "Do not risk everything that is dear to you. Get vaccinated against coronavirus" in St. Petersburg, Russia, Saturday, April 3, 2021. Russia has boasted about being the first country in the world to authorize a coronavirus vaccine and rushed to roll it out earlier than other countries, even as large-scale testing necessary to ensure its safety and effectiveness was still ongoing. (AP Photo/Dmitri Lovetsky)

An employee stand waiting for customers at a vaccination point in Moscow, Russia, Wednesday, April 7, 2021. The low vaccine uptake hinges on several factors. Russian drug makers have been slow to ramp up mass production of the vaccine, leading to shortages in many regions last month. As more shots became available, people's unwillingness to get them emerged as another apparent problem. So far only 27.9 million two-dose sets have been produced, and only 15 million have been released into circulation after undergoing quality control. (AP Photo/Pavel Golovkin)

A Russian medical worker administers a shot of Russia's Sputnik V coronavirus vaccine for a woman as people wearing face masks to protect against coronavirus queue to get a shot of Russia's Sputnik V coronavirus vaccine in a mobile vaccination center with a statue of Vladimir Lenin in the background in Simferopol, Crimea, Tuesday, April 13, 2021. Russia has boasted about being the first country in the world to authorize a coronavirus vaccine and rushed to roll it out earlier than other countries, even as large-scale testing necessary to ensure its safety and effectiveness was still ongoing. (AP Photo/Alexander Polegenko)

People wearing face masks to protect against coronavirus queue to get a shot of Russia's Sputnik V coronavirus vaccine in a mobile vaccination center in Simferopol, Crimea, Tuesday, April 13, 2021. Russia has boasted about being the first country in the world to authorize a coronavirus vaccine and rushed to roll it out earlier than other countries, even as large-scale testing necessary to ensure its safety and effectiveness was still ongoing. (AP Photo/Alexander Polegenko)

Vlassov, meanwhile, noted the outbreak in Russia is far from over, and there even are signs it is growing.

"Roughly the same number of people get infected every day in Russia now as last May, at the peak of the outbreak," he said, adding that twice as many people are dying every day than a year ago.

Government statistics say infections have stayed at about 8,000-9,000 per day nationwide, with 300-400 deaths recorded daily. But new cases have been steadily increasing in Moscow in the past month, exceeding 3,000 last week for the first time since January.

Infection rates are growing in seven regions, Deputy Prime Minister Tatyana Golikova said on April 23, without identifying them. She blamed "insufficient vaccination rates" in some places.

And yet, the abundance of vaccines in Moscow has attracted foreigners who can't get the shot at home. A group of Germans got their first jab at their hotel last month.

Uwe Keim, 46-year-old software developer from Stuttgart, told AP he believes "there are more vaccines available here in Russia than is demanded by the people here."

Explore further Follow the latest news on the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak

 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
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After a year of talking with patients via Zoom, phone and sometimes FaceTime, some central Ohio mental health providers are confident that telemedicine is here to stay, even after the pandemic goes away.

Kristen Carpenter, director of ambulatory services at Ohio State Harding Hospital, said the hospital did some telehealth services before the pandemic, but it mostly was used to connect different emergency rooms and to provide emergency psychiatric care. But with COVID-19, the hospital went from providing "almost 100% in-person care to almost 100% care via telehealth" almost immediately, she said.

Now, with about 90% of Harding's outpatient care still provided via telehealth, Carpenter said she foresees a future where patients can choose how they'd like to receive their care.

"Our patients have experienced almost no interruption in their care," she said. "We have been able to provide care that we never thought we could do via telehealth."

Harding currently offers individual counseling and psychiatry services in person and via telehealth. Its partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programa structured three- to four-week treatment program that typically requires patients to attend full-day group sessions in the hospitalnow takes place over Zoom.

John Dawson, interim president and CEO of Community for New Direction, also sees telemedicine in the nonprofit group's futureeven though it had offered no telehealth services before the pandemic.

"We have a higher show rate There's so many barriers to mental health and substance use disorder patients getting to appointments that telehealth has helped tremendously in that area," he said.

A new study finds during the first few months of the pandemic, patients were more likely to use telehealth services for behavioral health treatment than physical conditions, according to a January study published recently by RAND Corp. The study shows that 53.6% of patients with a behavioral health condition sought treatment via telehealth from mid-March to early May of 2020. By comparison, 43.2% of patients with a chronic physical condition used telehealth to receive care during the same period.

Providing services via phone or video conferencing has broken down many barriers including unreliable access to transportation and work conflicts, Carpenter said. At Harding, for example, there are fewer emergency cancellations and lower no-show rates because of telehealth appointments, she said.

As with other things provided remotely, however, there are some drawbacks.

Linda Jakes, executive director of Concord Counseling Services in Westerville, said the nonprofit group found it a bit more difficult in particular o treat young children and older adults remotely. Both groups tend to be more difficult to engage, she said, and older adults sometimes have more trouble navigating technology than other patients.

"It could be difficult when you're just having a phone conversation with someone to really see the body language associated," Jakes said. "There's a lot of things that we use our eyes for."

There are other challenges as well, said Dawson of Community for New Direction.

Having reliable internet and access to a private space for appointments are privileges that some people simply don't have, he said.

To address telehealth accessibility, he said his agency is working to provide funding for data cards and phones for patients in need.

Aside from accessibility, some patients must be seen in person, Dawson said. Those include individuals with severe opiate use disorder or personality disorders, for instance, who require closer assessment. All patients, he added, come into the office for their intake paperwork and subsequent drug tests, if it is part of their treatment plan.

Concord Counseling has established safety protocols such as staggered appointment times and alternating days that employees come in, but otherwise is letting individual clinicians decide when they want to bring patients into the office, said Mike Preston, director of clinical operation. He said most providers have in-person appointments with patients for whom "telehealth is just not working for them."

Carpenter said having mostly virtual appointments has been draining for providers, who sit in front of computer screens for hours at a time without breaks. And though mental health treatment lends itself to telehealth, the social interaction that in-person care provides is lost in virtual appointments.

"As the year has progressed, we've focused a lot on how coming into the office can actually be a kind of intervention for behavioral health, to draw them back out into the world," she said.

Jakes said telehealth has been invaluable and she can't imagine returning to offering only in-person care. But she said many clinicians are looking forward to certain milestones that they didn't appreciate before the pandemic.

"I was talking to one of our therapists the other day and she goes, 'Oh my God, it's going to be so exciting to come back,' because she has a chunk of her caseload that she's never even met, she's only done telehealth," Jakes said. "She goes, 'If I passed them on the street, I wouldn't even know who they are.'"

Explore further Social factors did not impact families' acceptance of telehealth in early pandemic

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Social media may make it easier for people to engage online, but I does not provide certain benefits of real-life human interactions, says a Michigan State University researcher.

"Problematic social media use has been associated with depression, anxiety and social isolation, and having a good social support system helps insulate people from negative mental health," said Dar Meshi, an assistant professor in the Department of Advertising and Public Relations at MSU. "We wanted to compare the differences between real-life support and support provided over social media to see if the support provided over social media could have beneficial effects."

The research was published online April 29 in the journal Addictive Behaviors.

While social media support did not negatively impact mental health, it did not positively affect it either.

"Only real-life social support was linked to better overall mental health," Meshi said. "Typical interactions over social media are limited. We theorize that they don't allow for more substantial connection, which may be needed to provide the type of support that protects against negative mental health."

Meshi and Morgan Ellithorpe, an assistant professor in the Department of Communication at the University of Delaware and a co-author on this paper, conducted a survey of 403 university students to identify how problematic their social media use was and their degree of social support in real-life and on social media.

By also using the PROMIS, or Patient-reported Outcomes Measurement Information System, scales for measuring depression, anxiety and social isolation, the researchers could see how the students' social media use and social support related to their mental health.

Problematic social media use is not a recognized addictive disorder, but there are similarities in the symptoms of someone with a substance use disorder and a person displaying excessive social media use. Examples include preoccupation with social media and signs of withdrawal, such as irritability, when prevented from using social media.

"It appears that the more excessive one's social media use is, the less social support that person gets in real life, which leads to poor mental health," Ellithorpe said.

Meshi and Ellithorpe encourage people who are using too much social media to reach out to people in real life for social support.

Explore further Is social media use a potentially addictive behaviour?

More information: Dar Meshi et al, Problematic social media use and social support received in real-life versus on social media: Associations with depression, anxiety and social isolation, Addictive Behaviors (2021). Dar Meshi et al, Problematic social media use and social support received in real-life versus on social media: Associations with depression, anxiety and social isolation,(2021). DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2021.106949
That northern swath of Montana also holds the reservations of the Blackfeet, Rocky Boys, Fort Belknap and Fort Peck Indian communities. All but Rocky Boys Reservation already have resident bison herds, and that last outlier is planning to acquire its own herd soon.

Last year, the Rocky Mountain Tribal Leaders Council teamed up with the University of Montanas Margery Hunter Brown Indian Law Clinic to draft a plan for an intertribal bison herd on Montana public lands.

In its findings, the drafters noted the region of the CMR was historically known as the Buffalo Commons in treaties between several Tribes and the U.S. Government. Those treaties and other court decisions supports the concept of a partnership between the Department of Interior and a confederation of Tribes to establish a bison herd on public lands in Montana. Bison with reputable genetics that descended from those that historically ranged across the Northern Great Plains are available to initiate an intertribal bison herd.

The Russell refuge also has enough intact prairie grasslands to make possible large-scale bison restoration, the plan noted. The April 27 letter from the Tribal caucus was in the works before Gianfortes settlement announcement, according to co-author Rep. Tyson Running Wolf, D-Browning.
Gift cards were given out during an All Nations Health Center Clinic in early April, while several Bozeman breweries are offering a free drink with proof of vaccination. Draught Works in Missoula has a similar program.

Also in early April, the health department launched a campaign called "Come Together" seeking community and business support for vaccinations. Vaccine hesitancy has been a major issue health departments across the country have been working against and Missoula County is no exception.

On March 28, Missoula County made COVID-19 vaccines available for anyone 16 years or older. In the following two weeks, the percent of Missoula County's eligible population who had received at least one shot of the vaccine jumped from 40.3% on March 29 to 53.1% on April 12.

As of April 26, the health department reported 57.8% of the Missoula County population has received at least one COVID-19 shot. Of those aged 20-29, 26% are fully vaccinated and 39% have gotten at least one dose.
He's become known as Italy's Robinson Crusoe after spending more than 30 years as the only resident of an idyllic island off the coast of Sardinia.

But Mauro Morandi is bidding farewell to his tiny hut on the Isle of Budelli after local authorities repeatedly threatened him with eviction.

The 81-year-old, who has been living on the island since 1989, announced his departure in a message on his Facebook page on Sunday.

"I'm going to leave," he wrote, adding that he hoped "Budelli will be safeguarded as I have done for 32 years." He also said he was "really p***ed off" about the situation.

The former teacher ended up on the stunning pink atoll while attempting to sail from Italy to Polynesia.

He's previously told how he was instantly mesmerized by the place and decided to stay, taking over from the island's former caretaker a short time after arriving.

However, the caretaker role became defunct when La Maddalena's National Park took over ownership of Budelli in 2015.
Clearly, most Republicans favor securing the border and most Democrats favor providing a pathway to citizenship for those already here. Due to Congress inability to clarify U.S. law through subsequent legislation, our last three presidents have issued contradictory executive orders on immigration policy, the enforcement of which has mostly been thwarted by our federal courts. In the interim, the legal status of millions of people in the U.S. is held in abeyance and most of the border remains wide open.

Isnt it worth trying to pass and enact actual immigration law again? Not so politicians can use it to duck responsibility for whats happening on the border, but to address these urgent and fundamental realities. The only way any such legislation has a chance is if both Republicans and Democrats forgo their inflammatory rhetoric and negotiate a realistic compromise. Any deal will require some kind of legal amnesty for most of the millions whove entered the country unlawfully since 1986  and, to the extent possible, the actual securing of most of the U.S.-Mexico border.

Congress must do the very hard work to write and pass statutory language in order to obviate governance by executive order. Legislating in Congress is hard work these days  its become even harder to compromise. But thats what those in Congress were elected to do  not name-call and run to their extreme corners for fundraising purposes. Lets hold them accountable to do whats best  not for their political party  but for our country. Just think where we might be today if both parties had mustered the courage to do that in 1986.

An attorney in Bozeman, Roger Fleming authored "Majority Rules" and "Outsider Rules," both fictional exposes about insider politics.

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Anyone whos ever seen a circus roll through town can tell you there are a lot of droppings to clean up behind the elephants. Montanas legislative circus and the GOP elephant parade left town late last week and there are so many unconstitutional droppings itll take years for the lawyers and judicial system to clean em up.

History will likely find the 2021 Montana legislative session passed more unconstitutional bills  and Gov. Greg Gianforte signed them into law  than any session in recent memory. In some ways, its understandable that the solid Republican majorities  and the GOPs sweep of statewide elected offices  imbued them with the impression they had been given a mandate to do whatever they wanted. Add in the rage over having their head elephant tossed out of the White House by the American voters whod had enough of his reality TV presidency, and it was a potent mix for some extremely poor judgment.

Unfortunately, that rage found its outlet in a host of measures that amount to little more than personal grievances given the power of law  at least for a little while. What they really could have used, however, was a serious tutoring in how government works in the United States, the reality of federal supremacy, and the necessity to adhere to the rights and limitations enumerated in both the state and federal constitutions.
Republicans have no shame. The funding in House Bill 632 is only possible because Democrats in Washington, D.C., had the courage to act.

Democrats worked in good faith with Republican leaders and President Trump to pass the CARES Act last year. But not a single Republican voted for the American Rescue Plan Act earlier this spring. U.S. Sen. Steve Daines and Congressman Matt Rosendale did nothing to help deliver those crucial funds for Montana. They are hypocrites and cowards.

Unfortunately, that cowardice trickles down to the state GOP as well as they cut out Missoula and other counties from grant funding in HB 632. It is despicable that Republican legislators are punishing local governments that made the difficult decisions to protect their citizens throughout the pandemic.

News flash  no one likes wearing a mask! But we do it because its the responsible thing to do to protect human lives.
The Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway has been polluting the land between E. Alder Street and N. Second St. E. since 1880. In fact, their fueling and switching yard in downtown Missoula was first designated a Superfund site in 1994. Residents in this neighborhood are forced to live in close proximity to free product diesel and other industrial compounds considered unsafe by the Environmental Protection Agency.

We cannot allow this to continue  our citizens deserve better than a cesspool of industrial waste right in the heart of Missoula.

Further, the open land along this railway is also going to waste. If properly cleaned, much of this Superfund site could be used for housing developments that Missoulians can afford. Amidst our housing crisis, we must create more options for affordable housing. Currently, the Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has only recommended an industrial-level cleanup: a limited solution that precludes any future residential developments in this area.

Our city deserves better. The DEQ must hold BNSF fully responsible to clean up this Superfund site to a residential standard  ensuring a safer, healthier future for this Missoula neighborhood, along with more options for our city to grow.

Daniel Carlino,
Homicide. Infanticide. Pesticide. Herbicide. Genocide. Yes, these words do all belong together. These words detail the current atrocity of chemical agriculture. When fossil-fuel derived fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides are applied to food, these are crimes against humanity.

It is considered homicide if the act is planned in advance. It is infanticide if babies are knowingly left to perish. It is genocide if an entire peoples or entire population is targeted. If we spray it on and it kills, its still spelled d-e-a-t-h.

Whether it be Midwestern mono cropped corn, almonds in California or a weed-free playground at the church next door, all of this is killing.

Please, if you care for a lawn, a crop, an orchard or any piece land, do not use chemicals. We must stop using killers like Roundup immediately.

If a dictator was murdering his countrymen, America would stand up and end the slaughter.

The dictator today is industrial agriculture, with agrochemicals as the weapons of mass destruction. America must stand up to this dictator. We must stop the spraying of poisons on our food, fields, parks and lawns.

Theres tons of safe, natural ways to manage lands, so please educate yourself, and choose life.
LENOIR  A-1 Pest Control, a family-owned and operated business in Lenoir, will hold a monthlong campaign to raise awareness and funds for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, often referred to as Lou Gehrigs disease. This will be A-1s first event to support ALS, and it hopes to make it an annual occasion.

As with most events, this years inaugural walk will be virtual, with hopes that next years participants can raise awareness in person. Supporters are asked to join the A-1 Walks 5 for ALS Facebook event page or visit https://bit.ly/3b4XfJ0, and walk 5 miles throughout the month of May, to honor the 5,000 people diagnosed with ALS each year.

Anyone who wishes to donate can do so through the event page. Proceeds will support the

The ALS Association North Carolina Chapter, which stays local to the community and helps those living with ALS find treatment and supplies to help with care of the disease. Walkers are encouraged to wear red, take a selfie or a group picture, and post it on social media using the hashtag #A1Walks5forALS.

A-1 Pest Control will show support all month long, and at the conclusion of the campaign, the company will make a monetary commitment to the local chapter of the ALS Foundation as well.
Giles County authorities are asking the public to be on the lookout for a 2-year-old boy who was reportedly abducted from a church in Ripplemead on Sunday.

The county Sheriffs Office said Noah Gabriel Trout was taken from a nursery at Riverview Baptist Church by an unidentified woman sometime in the afternoon. Virginia State Police issued an Amber Alert and said the boy is believed to be in extreme danger.

The woman left in a dark-colored van or SUV from the church in the 200 block of Big Stony Creek Road, according to the sheriffs office. Authorities did not have any information about who the suspect may be.

Trout was last seen wearing a gray T-shirt and bright orange jacket.

He has a red mark on the back of his neck, according to the sheriffs office.

Anyone with information about the case should call the sheriffs office at 921-3842. If you see the child, call 911.
Video Only | Your family can enjoy an amazing experience starting tonight and for as many nights as you like over the next two weeks. Well send instructions on how to create the SLEEP SQUAD interactive experience using items you have at home and your imagination!

Video + Official Dreamtime Travel Kit | You get the same as above, but with this package you also get an official SLEEP SQUAD Dreamtime Travel Kit shipped to you that includes a dream journal, sleep mask, stickers, and a star projector. If you purchase this package now, you have access to the video for four weeks, and can expect Kit delivery in under two weeks.
Montana reported 46 COVID-19 cases and no additional COVID-19 deaths in an update Sunday to the state case mapping and information website.

Active cases are at 1,105 statewide. Cumulative cases have reached 109,030. COVID-19 has caused the deaths of 1,574 Montanans.

A total of 106,351 COVID-19 cases in Montana are considered recovered, meaning they meet the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines for a person with COVID-19 to be released from isolation.

Statewide 720,720 vaccine doses have been administered and 332,474 people are fully vaccinated.

Hospitals in the state are reporting 57 active COVID-19 hospitalizations. There have been 5,022 COVID-19 hospitalizations reported by the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services.

Another 2,621 COVID-19 tests were completed by Sunday. Statewide 1,304,842 tests have been administered for COVID-19.

Counties added the following cases in the Sunday update:
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KALISPELL  About 96% of Montanans who have received their first COVID-19 vaccine have been returning to get their second dose, state health officials said.

Jim Murphy, administrator of the health department's Communicable Disease Control and Prevention Bureau, told Montana Public Radio he's pleased that nearly all Montanans who get a first dose are following up and getting their second one.

Nationally, 8% of people who were due to get their second dose by April 9 didn't return for a their second shot, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported.

Out of almost 400,000 Montanans who have received a first dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine, about 14,600 are at least two weeks overdue for their second shot, Murphy said.

It's possible some have received a second dose in another state, or decided to get a second dose at a pharmacy rather than returning to a mass vaccination clinic, he said, while others could wrongly believe they are protected after one dose.

Others may be wary after their initial experience or reports of side effects by others.
Not only have oil and gas companies stockpiled acres, but they have also amassed a steady stream of permits to last them for years. Currently, the oil and gas industry has nearly 7,900 approved but unused drilling permits on hand.

The oil and gas industry has spent the last few months fear-mongering to the public about President Bidens leasing pause and the impact it will have on their bottom lines, but they know this could not be further from the truth. Many oil and gas companies did not even include the leasing pause as a concern or risk to their bottom line in their annual earnings reports.

What the oil and gas industry doesnt want you to know is that the number of oil rigs in operation in Montana has been steadily decreasing over the past 20 years, from a peak of 27 in 2005 to zero today.

Companies can still drill during the pause on land they have already leased. And industry leaders have confirmed that the millions of acres they have stockpiled are more than adequate to hold them over for years to come. Analysis from the Center for Western Priorities shows that the industry forfeited 20 million acres of unused drilling leases and 8,400 permits in recent years. Its clear that the administrations pause will not negatively impact companies, as they have already been regularly surrendering the leases they already have on hand.
So, probably over a year ago now, there was a solar energy company that came in and talked to us, zoning director Eric Furnas said. They were reaching out to land owners in the West Liberty and Atalissa areas about potential leads. We had some back and forth with them and they had some questions, but that project never came to fruition. But most recently, Muscatine Power & Water contacted me and advised that they were planning on a project, likely in two phases. Phase would be on their ground on the MPW well field for the first field of solar panels. But were and are confident that most likely there would be a phase two that would be spilling out into areas of the county.
What was supposed to be a jubilant rite of passage was replaced by grief and tragedy in Indiana on Saturday.

Two high school students died in a car crash on their way to the prom, Hamilton County sheriff's spokesperson Ryan McClain said.

The crash happened around 5:15 p.m. in Arcadia, about 40 miles north of Indianapolis. When officers arrived, both students were found deceased.

The Hamilton Heights School Corporation identified them as Hamilton Heights High School senior Kalen Hart and her prom date, Lendon Byram.

Byram was a student at Cathedral High School, the Indianapolis private school said.

Two other students were in the car with Hart and Byram but suffered non-life threatening injuries.

The driver of another vehicle involved in the crash was also a high school student but declined medical attention, McClain said.

The cause of the crash is under investigation. There were no immediate signs that drugs or alcohol were involved, McClain said.

All Hamilton Heights prom activities were canceled due to the news.
The Verizon logo is seen on the side of a truck in New York City on Oct. 13, 2016.

REUTERS
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AFSCME wants to ensure that all health and safety measures are taken. We have begun to bargain about this and other topics to ensure our members and the public are made safe, said Stuart Katzenberg, director of bargaining for the union. Too many state employees and citizens who use state services have been unnecessarily infected by the insufficient efforts of the Hogan administration.
Orchibat Chimoddorj, right, and his other Mongolian workers of Imperial Pacific International gather outside their barracks on Friday afternoon, a day before they left Saipan.

Photo by Emmanuel T. Erediano
1: Best Alternative to the Negotiated Agreement is referred to as BATNA in a negotiation. Thus, there is generally two different outcomes to a negotiation to correspond to BATNA for the two parties to the negotiation. Considering BATNAs of both USA and USSR in Cuban Missiles crisis the following answers have been provided.

a: USA will get to keep the Jupiter missiles in Turkey and will compel Soviet to remove the missiles from Cuba by exercising BATNA.

From the perspective of Soviet ensuring that Jupiter missiles are removed by the US from Turkey and keeping its missiles in Cuba along with assurance from the US that it will not invade the Cuban soil will be BATNA to the negotiation.

b: Negotiation is a process of adjusting interests of parties to a contract or deal form a successful contract between the two. Thus, achieving BATNAs for both the parties in a single contract is not possible. However, it is definitely possible to exercise BATNA by one of the parties to a negotiation. The probable outcomes of USA BATNA would be very advantageous to the USA whereas it will be not to the liking of USSR and Cuba. On the other hand the probable outcome of USSR BATNA would be extremely satisfactory to the interests of both CUBA and USSR (Scott & Hughes (Eds.) 2015).

c: With US having its Jupiter missiles in Turkey and a close watch on the Cuban activities, it has a better BATNA.

2: a: As per the movie Thirteen Days there were number of issues that were under negotiation as per the movie. A brief list of three such issues are mentioned here to enable the readers to understand the critical issues of the negotiation as per the movie.

Immediate removal of missiles from the Cuban soil by the Soviet and dismantling of the sites where missiles have been installed. Refraining from attacking and invading Cuban soil. Removal of Jupiter missiles from Turkey by the US administration.

b: Immediate removal of missiles from the Cuban soil by the Soviet and dismantling of the sites where missiles have been installed:

Position: USA in favor of removal of these missiles however, USSR was not in favor of the same.

Interests: USA will be able to avert the nuclear threat from Cuba. USSR has invested its funds on assembling missiles in Cuba will be lost.

Priorities: USA has kept at as the first priority in the negotiation with USSR wishing to avoid the discussion.

Refraining from attacking and invading Cuban soil:

Position: Neither USA nor USSR are in support of attacking a sovereign country like Cuba.

Interests: To keep the economic growth and progress of the regions intact, applicable to both US and USSR.

Priorities: Both countries will keep it as one of the top priorities.

Removal of Jupiter missiles from Turkey by the US administration:

Position: US is not in favor of such agreement with USSR looking to achieve this objective. =

Interests: Both have different interests.

Priorities: For USSR it is the top most priorities whereas the US would love to avoid such discussion (Frankel, 2018).

Reference:

Frankel, M. (2018). Learning from the Missile Crisis. In Cuban Communism, 1959-2003 (pp. 80-90). Routledge.

Scott, L., & Hughes, R. G. (Eds.). (2015). The Cuban Missile Crisis: A Critical Reappraisal. Routledge.
Introduction

The small and medium size enterprises always plays a significant role for the economic development. The study will show the effect of tax on the small and medium scale enterprises in Kenya (Grimm & Paffhausen, 2015). The study covers the findings, analysis and conclusion. All the business and the policies of tax depends greatly on another for their survival. Therefore it can be said that the tax have a huge impact on the small and medium scale enterprises.

Purpose of the study

The purpose of the study is to establish the impact of the administration of tax on the small scale industries in a town in Kenya.

Objectives of the study

The objective of the study is to

Find out how the rates of tax affects the growth of the small scale industries in a town named Iten.

How the policies of the tax is used for administering tax on the small scale industries.

To find out the various types of tax which affects the growth of the small scale enterprises.

Research question

The study will be having the following research questions which includes:

How the tax rate will affect the growth of the small scale industries in the town of Kenya?

Which type of tax policy will be administered on a small scale business enterprise in the Iten town?

Which type of tax will be affecting the growth of small scale industries in Kenya?

Scope of the study

The research paper mainly focuses on the effects of tax policies on the economy of small business enterprises in a town in Kenya (Sekaran & Bougie, 2016). The study however limits itself to the challenges that the policies of the tax in Kenya for small scale business enterprises. It also shows the how self-employed business people and other forms of business

Significance of the study

The findings will help different people in many way like

It will help the traders to learn their duties as the tax payers where taxes acts as operational.

The legislature Assembly will also be amending parts of the Tax Act which will be unfair to the small scale traders.

The Kenya Revenue Authority will be using trader friendly methods while collecting the tax.

The government of the country will be revising the tax rates in order to fight corruption among the tax collectors.

The tax rates can be revised so that exports and imports become cheap.

Literature review

The small and the medium scale enterprises plays a major role for maintain high employment and income generation. I is also effective for achieving high rate of sustainable growth in the economy (Lee, Herold & Yu, 2016). In order to enhance the roles the SMEs need to focus highly on the major challenges such as reduction of costs, improvement of the productivity of the employees along with building competitive advantage by producing quality products and services.

Method of taxation in the SMEs

There is a presence of huge difference in initiating a tax regime for the developed and for the developing countries (Jamali, Lund-Thomsen & Jeppesen, 2017). The tax structure in case of developing countries is quite complicated for the developed countries the small business are within the formal category. The small taxpayer sector have the following characteristics such as:

They have small cash based business

High turnover rates

They are of huge numbers

Lower revenue potential

Weak accounting capabilities

Types of taxes

There are different kinds of taxes which have an effect on the small and medium scale enterprises which are:

Direct and indirect taxes: direct taxes are mainly imposed on the incomes and the property of any individuals whereas the indirect taxes are those taxes which are not directly collected by the government but by those people who are basically the business people (Grimm & Paffhausen, 2015). Proportional and progressive taxes: the proportional taxes are those which are levied uniformly according to the income and progressive tax are those tax where the rate of tax can increase when the amount of taxation will increase.

Methodology

The methodology is quantitative in nature. The study mainly consists of 25 small scale enterprises including retail shops, hardware shops and tax administrators.

The major participants in the informal sector few people for the study how own small scale business.

Analysis and Conclusion

From the study it can be found out that tax payers were identified on the basis of their operations. It was also found out that the local government also plays a major role in the tax administration of small operators. The findings also showed that the profit margin was quite small in nature. Therefore it can be said from the above study that the tax rates will not much affect the small scale business earners.

Reference

Grimm, M., & Paffhausen, A. L. (2015). Do interventions targeted at micro-entrepreneurs and small and medium-sized firms create jobs? A systematic review of the evidence for low and middle income countries. Labour Economics, 32, 67-85.

Jamali, D., Lund-Thomsen, P., & Jeppesen, S. (2017). SMEs and CSR in developing countries. Business & Society, 56(1), 11-22.

Lee, K. H., Herold, D. M., & Yu, A. L. (2016). Small and medium enterprises and corporate social responsibility practice: A Swedish perspective. Corporate Social Responsibility and Environmental Management, 23(2), 88-99.

Rose-Ackerman, S., & Palifka, B. J. (2016). Corruption and government: Causes, consequences, and reform. Cambridge university press.

Sekaran, U., & Bougie, R. (2016). Research methods for business: A skill building approach. John Wiley & Sons.

Storey, D. J. (2016). Understanding the small business sector. Routledge.
There are a number of Adapt IT shareholders who do not think it is good for CEO Sbu Shabalala to own the building his company uses for its head office as the tenants interests are secondary to the landlords interests.

This is the view of Huge Group CEO James Herbst, who has made an offer to shareholders to acquire Adapt IT through a share swop.

To fully understand the deal and the concerns from Herbst, it is of value to go back a few years.

In 2015 Adapt IT initiated the project to develop a new Johannesburg campus and merge its eight legacy offices into one.

Building of the new Adapt IT campus started in November 2016 and the company signed a long term lease agreement with Inyosi Ross on 19 December 2016.

Adapt IT moved into the first phase of their new office in February 2018 and occupied the second phase in August 2018.

Six months later, on 1 March 2019, Mshengu Property Holdings acquired Adapt ITs Johannesburg campus from Inyosi Ross.

The lease agreement signed by Adapt IT in 2016 was automatically ceded from Inyosi Ross to Mshengu Property Holdings.

Over the last financial year, which ended 30 June 2020, Mshengu Property Holdings earned lease rentals of R34.62 million from Adapt IT.

Mshengu Property Holdings is 100% owned by the Mshengu Family Trust, of which Shabalala is a beneficiary and trustee. Shabalala is also the sole director of Mshengu Property Holdings.

In response to questions from MyBroadband, Adapt IT said there is nothing untoward regarding the deal.

The company said the sale of the property was strictly between Mshengu Property Holdings and Inyosi Ross.

The sale of the Johannesburg campus was concluded independent of the company and it has had no adverse effect on the lease terms, Adapt IT said.

The terms are still exactly the same as when it was entered into with Inyosi Ross, save that the landlord has changed.

To avoid a conflict of interest, Shabalala recused himself from the decision regarding the property.

Shabalala fully disclosed and completed the notice of directors personal financial interest along with recusing himself from all of the companys decisions pertaining to the lease since Mshengu Property Holdings effectively became the landlord, Adapt IT said.

At the time of entering into the lease agreement, the board of the company was comfortable with the term of the lease which is in line with the companys facilities strategy.

Adapt IT said its board remains comfortable with the terms of the lease agreement.

Having a CEO of a company which owns, or partly owns, the property which the company uses as its campus raises questions about a potential conflict of interest.

Higher rent, for example, is good news for the CEO, but bad news for the company which must pay this rent.

There are also concerns that the executives may want to satisfy the CEOs needs when they deal with issues related to the property.

Commenting on this scenario, the Institute of Directors in South Africa (IoDSA) said conflicts typically involve tension between multiple competing interests, be these personal or financial.

This often manifests in the entanglement of the private and professional interests of an individual.

The existence of a conflict is, however, not necessarily an indication that an impropriety has occurred.

Some conflicts are pervasive and should be avoided, while others can be managed, the IoDSA said.

In assessing whether the conflict is material, and therefore must be avoided, the board needs to consider the pervasiveness and the period over which the conflict will occur. This will often involve judgement.

The onus is thus on the board to adequately assess this, including the various multi-faceted risks and attendant opportunities, and what ultimately is in the best interests of the company, it said.

Herbst told MyBroadband he is certain Adapt ITs directors and Shabalala would have followed a process to deal with what was clearly a conflict of interest for Shabalala as a conflicted director.

We are unsure with which Adapt IT Holdings associated company the Lease was concluded so we are unable to make reference to the designated Adapt IT Holdings tenant, Herbst said.

The Huge Group CEO said where companies often fall short in dealing with conflicts of interest is understanding that it does not only present itself at one moment in time, but rather across time.

Most boards think that the conflict of interest arises once. In this example, it is at the time of considering the conclusion of the lease, Herbst explained.

However, this is not correct. What boards should do is consider other times that might arise in the future when the conflict of interest might manifest.

If Shabalala recused himself from the deliberations which took place before concluding the lease, this would have been an example of good corporate governance.

However, Herbst said, the other directors should have asked additional questions at the time of considering the conclusion of the lease.

Herbst provided the questions to consider, and where relevant his comments below the question.

What is the term of the lease and is the term normal?

In this example, we understand that the lease had an initial term of 13 years. We are of the view that a 13-year lease is not normal in South Africa. Long leases are normally 5 years but no more than 10 years.

What is the cost of the lease and is the cost normal?

Is there an ability to terminate the lease early?

What is the value of the lease to the landlord and Shabalala?

It appears that the leases lease rentals of about R34 million per annum with annual escalations probably approximates a present value of R500 million, and in all likelihood equals the cost of the building.

What circumstances could arise in the future where the interests of the landlord and the tenant are not aligned?

Example 1: The world has changed because of Covid and in all probability the Adapt IT head office is probably not fully occupied. The ability to downscale should have been contemplated at the time of deciding to conclude the lease and the interests of the landlord versus the tenant should have been considered. Example 2: Mergers and acquisitions are often viable because of cost cutting opportunities. The interests of the landlord versus the tenant in a merger or acquisition of Adapt IT Holdings should have been contemplated at the time of deciding to conclude the lease and which interests would outweigh the other and which party would be in control of the respective interests. In this case, the Conflicted Director is in control of the interests of the landlord and the tenant but he has more to gain if he looks after the interests of the Landlord ahead of the interests of the Tenant.

If a matter arises in the future involving the Landlord and the Tenant, will Shabalala act in the best interests of the landlord or the tenant?

Shabalalas interest in the tenant probably have a value today of about R100 million, whereas his interests in the landlord likely have a present value of R500 million.

This, Herbst said, is why they agree with the view that it is not good for Shabalala, as CEO, to own the building Adapt IT uses for its head office.

MyBroadband asked Adapt IT why Shabalala decided to acquire the Adapt IT Johannesburg Campus, but the company did not answer this question.

They would also not address questions about the potential conflict of interest, which other properties Mshengu Property Holdings owns, or whether the property deal influenced his support of the Volaris offer to acquire the company.

Instead, Adapt IT said the document embedded below addressed all the issues regarding the Adapt IT property in Johannesburg.

Now read: Large group of Adapt IT shareholders support Volaris acquisition offer
Brett van Rensburg is a top ICT expert and the Sales Director for the Network Division of iOCO, Africas leading integrated technology services company.

With a strong focus on where technology meets business strategy, Brett has helped and advised many of South Africas largest corporates.

He has spent the past decade building his knowledge base of how to choose, adopt and run the correct technologies and strategies to help meet business objectives.

His expertise is focused on Digital Networking, Cloud, Security, and the new age of Mobility.

His strong background in consulting and sales allows him to make the technical more relatable and easy to understand, while using tailored examples and stories which entertain.

In this Whats Next interview, Van Rensburg discusses the advantages and challenges of a hybrid workforce.

He also shares insight into the different remote access options for organisations, and the benefits of each option.

Van Rensburg provides some guidance for companies to help them choose the most cost-effective solutions for their specific requirements.

The interview ends with Van Rensburg explaining why iOCO is ideally positioned to assist companies to improve their efficiency.

The full interview with Brett van Rensburg is embedded below. You can see all Whats Next with Aki Anastasiou interviews here.
Amazon is on a recruitment drive in South Africa with 148 full-time vacancies in Johannesburg and Cape Town.

Last year Amazon announced that it would hire 3,000 new customer service employees in South Africa to provide support to its North American and European customers.

An Amazon spokesperson told MyBroadband the new jobs included remote and flexible work-from-home positions.

The 3,000 new employees will take the total number of employees of Amazon in South Africa to 7,000, making it one of the largest tech employers in the country.

Amazon added that it continues to employ and invest in the thousands of individuals that work at its customer service centre in Cape Town.

Apart from growing its support staff, the company is also expanding its technical presence in South Africa.

In April 2020 Amazon Web Services (AWS) went live with the Cape Town region.

This means developers and companies can run their applications and serve end-users in Africa with lower latency and leverage advanced AWS technologies to drive innovation.

Amazon said the new Cape Town AWS region will help customers with data residency requirements and those looking to comply with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA).

They can now store their content in South Africa with the assurance that they retain complete ownership of their data and it will not move unless they choose to move it, Amazon said.

To support its rapid expansion in South Africa, Amazon partnered with the new R4 billion River Club development for office space.

Amazon is the anchor tenant in this new development in Cape Town which will become its new home in Africa.

Amazon is currently advertising 148 full-time jobs and 3 seasonal position in South Africa.

106 of the full-time positions are in Cape Town, 26 in Johannesburg, 8 in Waterfall, and 8 across South Africa.

The positions range from highly technical positions, like software development engineers and solutions architects, to general positions like recruitment agents.

There are 34 job openings for software developers, 45 for IT, operations, and support engineers, 21 for customer support, and 12 solution architects.

There are also jobs for sales, advertising, and account managers, project managers, data scientists, and designers.

The table below provides an overview of prominent positions at Amazon in South Africa which were advertised recently.
The cash-strapped ANC is struggling to pay salaries after the South African Revenue Service (SARS) laid claim to R17 million because of unpaid taxes.

This is according to a report in the Sunday Times, which said SARS has garnisheed R17 million allocated to the ANC by the IEC for the first quarter of 2021/22.

Luthuli House general manager Febe Potgieter informed employees of the situation on Friday.

Due to continued financial difficulties, this situation of uncertainty with regard to the exact date of payment of salaries is likely to continue for the coming three to six months, Potgieter wrote.

We appeal to the financial institutions and other creditors of our staff to take note that late payments by no means are the fault of the individual staff, and therefore not to penalise them for this unfortunate situation.

According to ANC insiders, the party had an R80 million tax bill when Paul Mashatile became treasurer-general in December 2017, while the party reportedly owed a further R140 million in provident-fund debt.

Insiders allege that the tax bill includes millions of rands in PAYE tax which was deducted from salaries, but not paid to SARS.

When the current [treasurer-general] came into office there was an R80m debt that he inherited that was owed to Sars, an ANC insider told the Sunday Times.

To date he has paid over R100m servicing that debt and its interest. But because of the interest, the debt remains high to date.

The news that the ANC has been unable to pay salaries will be a particularly bitter pill for staff to swallow following recent revelations of corruption involving the ruling party.

A forensic investigation found that Econ Oil and Energy secured deals to supply Eskom with fuel oil at inflated prices by paying inducements  including donations to the ANC.

Econ allegedly won the contracts with the help of Thandi Marah, who was the senior manager of business enablement at Eskom at the time.

Legal firm Bowmans, which Eskom commissioned to conduct the probe, alleged that Marah interfered in the tender processes.

The report alleges that Marah and Econs only director, Nothemba Mlonzi, pressured Eskom staff to disclose other fuel suppliers prices to Econ Oil ahead of the conclusion of tenders.

It also details a request Marah made to Mlonzi to make a payment to a womens charity, and Mlonzi also reportedly paid for Marah and other Eskom staff to attend an ANC fund-raising dinner.

The price of a table at this dinner ranged from R150,000 to R700,000.

Mlonzi denied the allegations in a response to Eskom.

The failure to pay ANC salaries follows President Cyril Ramaphosa committing to taking a hard stance on corruption and criminality in the ANC earlier this year.

In his closing address to the ANCs NEC meeting on 14 February, Ramaphosa said the Consitution and the rule of law are sacrosanct and must be respected.

To allow anything else would lead to anarchy and open the floodgates easily for counter-revolution, said Ramaphosa.

Corruption and state capture, as well as lawlessness, are against the core principles and values of the ANC.

He also noted that the NEC has adopted guidelines on dealing with those within its ranks found to have acted against the law, or of other serious misdemeanours.

These guidelines indicate that any ANC member facing criminal charges should step aside voluntarily.

Now read: SAA close to finding investor
"What they do has to be within the law and within the zoning and if it is there's not much we can do about it  and I'm not sure we'd want to," Glendenning said. "Everybody is entitled to start their own business."
Napa also is expecting a smaller-than-usual allotment from the State Water Project, which delivers supplies to cities across California from snowmelt in the Sierra Nevada. Brun told council members to expect only 5% of Napas maximum state water delivery, with sparse precipitation leaving the Sierra snowpack at only 58% of its normal depth.

City of Calistoga issues mandate for water customers to conserve The City of Calistoga has declared a Stage II Water emergency and starting May 1, residents and businesses will be required to conserve water.

A separate resolution before the council would allow the purchase of as much as 1,400 more acre-feet of water to bolster local supplies, drawing on $640,000 in a city reserve fund. That infusion would include up to 800 acre-feet from Calistogas state allotment that the Upvalley city does not plan to use, along with 420 acre-feet from the state Department of Water Resources and 150 acre-feet from various agencies and landowners sharing supplies with the DWR, according to Brun.
This is a largely underserved population, she wrote of the homes future residents. They are our neighbors who are doing their best to integrate back into the community and need support and supervision to help them achieve their goals.

During a Register interview in February, Gray outlined a therapy program in which clients would stay at the home for up to two years at a time. Residents would receive room, board, medical and psychological care, as well as various kinds of job skill training to improve their odds of living independently.

Historic mansion in Old Town Napa to host transition home for mentally ill former inmates The 19th-century Yount mansion in Napa is a few months away from becoming a group home, despite the fears of some nearby residents.

The Yount mansions former owner Jim Keller in 2013 announced plans a B&B at the site, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, but the landmark was damaged in the 2014 earthquake and the conversion never took place. The property was then sold in 2019 to Luis Nieves, the founder and former CEO of the Napa-based AUL Corp. automobile service contract insurance company, who became a member of Gray Havens board of directors.

Gray Haven will not accept former inmates with a history of sex offenses or arson, or who otherwise pose a threat of violence, Gray wrote Sunday. Residents will be granted the use of bicycles but will not be allowed to drive cars during treatment, and can be terminated for alcohol or drug use.

You can reach Howard Yune at 530-763-2266 or hyune@napanews.com

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Armenia ex-President Kocharyan: There is no parasitism in security issues

Finance ministry: Armenia agriculture expenditures reduced by 15% in 2020

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Armenia 2nd President Kocharyan on Meghri Corridor: Turkey, Azerbaijan pursue far-reaching goals

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Russia begins testing reliability of its nuclear weapons

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Iran loses right to vote at UN due to non-payment of dues

Trump: All Joe Biden had to do was sit back and do nothing

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Stoltenberg warns Russias Putin, Belarus Lukashenko against destabilization in NATO eastern flank

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Catholicos of All Armenians presides over Divine Liturgy in Stepanakert

Turkey airstrike kills at least 3 Kurdish refugees in Iraq

Trump demands billing China $10 trillion for coronavirus damage

Bright Armenia Party leader: We are on verge of civil war

Several explosions occur in Syria

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Kim Jong Un appears in public for first time since early May

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Iraq may face severe water shortages

G7 countries sign deal to tax largest multinational companies

1st round of debates of presidential candidates takes place in Iran

6 die and 5 go missing in Sri Lankan flooding

Powerful blast thunders in Somalia capital

A body found in Artsakh

Nearly 100 people killed in Burkina Faso

Acting PM: It is necessary to create professional army in Armenia

UN demands investigation amid discovery of mass grave of children at Canada school

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ICRC representatives visit 6 captured Armenian soldiers

Pashinyan: An absolute record for Armenia has been set for number of registered jobs

Civil Contract party holding fundraising evening

Nikol Pashinyan sends congratulatory message to Bashar al-Assad

South Korean air force chief resigns amid scandal over female sergeant suicide

Nikol Pashinyan visits morgue in Abovyan

Acting PM announces interference of external forces in electoral processes in Armenia

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8 security officials killed in Taliban attack in Afghanistan

Philip T. Reeker's visit to Georgia, Azerbaijan and Armenia

Biden gives prosecutors more freedom to terminate immigration cases

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Twitter launches paid subscription Twitter Blue

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Armenia 2nd President: Number of people who emigrated without returning has grown, only solution is shift of power
Three Israelis were wounded Sunday in a drive-by shooting in the West Bank, medics and the army said, with Defense Minister Benny Gantz blaming "terrorists" for the attack, AFP reported.

The attack, which took place at a bus station at Tapuah junction south of Nablus, bore the hallmark of Palestinian militants.

"A suspicious vehicle arrived at the junction and fired towards Israeli civilians who were present at the scene," the army said in a statement.

"IDF troops responded with fire towards the suspicious vehicle which escaped the scene," the army added.

Israel's emergency medical service Magen David Adom said it had treated three people in their 20s and evacuated them to hospital, one in critical condition, one seriously wounded and another lightly wounded.

The army said its forces had "blocked off a number of routes and are currently pursuing the suspicious vehicle".

Gantz, who was briefed on the incident, said security forces will not rest "until they apprehended the terrorists behind the attack," his office said in a statement.

Earlier Sunday, a Palestinian woman was seriously wounded at the Gush Etzion junction in the southern West Bank after approaching Israeli soldiers with a knife.

Video footage showed the soldiers repeatedly calling on her to stop, before shooting her.
"When you move into a new system or structure or school, you have to make sure you're learning the lay of the land. I'm making myself available for the school and community to get to know me," she said.
Armenia ex-President Kocharyan: There is no parasitism in security issues

Finance ministry: Armenia agriculture expenditures reduced by 15% in 2020

Armenia former President Kocharyan: Good roads are sacred duty of state

Beyonce shares new photo on Instagram and amazes her followers

Armenia 2nd President Kocharyan on Meghri Corridor: Turkey, Azerbaijan pursue far-reaching goals

Armenia acting PM appoints deputy governors to 3 provinces

"Armenia" bloc starts election campaign from southernmost settlement

32 new cases of COVID-19 confirmed in Armenia

Unprecedented case of high treason against Armenia committed by organized group is exposed

Why Harry and William didn't make up at Prince Philip's funeral?

Election campaign formally kicks off in Armenia

World oil prices dropping

US says it does not want to be in arms race with any country

Cyprus MOD: Turkey's aggressive behavior creates dangerous climate

Turkey FM claims Armenians "have taken Turkish-French relations hostage"

Armenia ex-President Sargsyan on authorities: For years these scoundrels were saying Karabakh must be given

Bitcoin to become legal tender in El Salvador

Armenia ex-President Sargsyan: If I were Commander-in-Chief, I would shoot myself if there were such situation

Armenia 3rd President Sargsyan: We have not lied, have not manipulated people, have not divided our society

Armenia ombudsman: Azerbaijan soldiers try to steal about 20 horses from Gegharkunik Province village shepher

Russia begins testing reliability of its nuclear weapons

Match results of the day: England, Netherlands win

Armenia acting PM: There is a future

Harry and Meghan announce birth of baby daughter - with name to honour Queen and Diana

NATO kicks off BALTOPS exercise in Baltic Sea

Armenian Catholicos patriarchal visit to Artsakh ends (PHOTOS)

Federer pulls out of French Open

Iran loses right to vote at UN due to non-payment of dues

Trump: All Joe Biden had to do was sit back and do nothing

Grand Chess Tour: Armenias Aronian plays draw with So of US

At least 88 people killed in Nigeria attacks

Armenia former President Sargsyan visits memorial chess tournament in Jermuk (PHOTOS)

Armenia acting PM's election campaign is carried out with large-scale use of administrative resources

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Mexico holding parliamentary, local elections

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78,004 more passengers leave Armenia by air in first 5 months of 2021 than arrive

Putin-Biden possible meeting place in Switzerland is named

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UN condemns "heinous attack" in Burkina Faso

Prosperous Armenia Party leader: Only Russia can ensure security of our country

Stoltenberg warns Russias Putin, Belarus Lukashenko against destabilization in NATO eastern flank

Woman found dead in Yerevan Lake

Catholicos of All Armenians presides over Divine Liturgy in Stepanakert

Turkey airstrike kills at least 3 Kurdish refugees in Iraq

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Armenian national football team manager: We lacked aggressive game, sportive "evil" a little

Trump demands billing China $10 trillion for coronavirus damage

Bright Armenia Party leader: We are on verge of civil war

Several explosions occur in Syria

Prince Edward, wife express support for Prince Harry, Meghan Markle

Biden not seeking conflict with Russia

Armenia acting PM sends congratulatory message on Sweden National Day

Passenger flow at 2 Armenia international airports increase by 24% in May

37 new cases of COVID-19 confirmed in Armenia

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Apple employees are against returning to work in office

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Person dies in Armenia town mountains

Matches of the day

Kim Jong Un appears in public for first time since early May

Grand Chess Tour: Armenias Aronian kicks off with a draw

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Mayweather is ready to fight with Conor McGregor

Prince Charles may break 200-year-old royal tradition when he ascends to throne

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8 security officials killed in Taliban attack in Afghanistan

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Biden gives prosecutors more freedom to terminate immigration cases

Pregnant Megan Markle needs doctors' help

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We had a robust deployment strategy for the weekend and some of the incidents, we had officers a couple blocks away and responded very quickly, he said. But as Ive stated many times in the past, this violence that we see far too often ... occurs when individuals decide to pick up a gun and then to later use that gun to solve their conflicts or to enact revenge on someone because of a previous conflict.
YEREVAN.  The government does not do anyone any favors by organizing elections; the government is the number one responsible for the internal political crisis, and it must take steps to resolve this crisis. We have agreed that there should be an election. Edmon Marukyan, chairman of the opposition Bright Armenia Party (BAP) and head of its faction in the National Assembly (NA), on Monday told this to reporters in the NA.

"You saw that at this stage we had the right to make a nomination [for a new PM], but we did not because if we agree on something, we promise the people that we are doing this for the [snap parliamentary] elections [slated for June 20], then we are doing [it]. The [respective] agreement is not with [acting PM Nikol] Pashinyan, but with the people. We have promised the people that we shall dissolve this NA so that the people vote again. If we disrupt this process in any way, it will mean that we want the people to decide who will get the country out of this situation; this deal, in fact, is with the people," Marukyan said.

But he did not agree with the opinion that the premier of Armenia has no right to serve as acting after his resignation. "If so, why was the dissolution of the parliament constitutional in 2018, whereas is not constitutional in 2021? In 2018, the prime minister remained 'acting,' but the same people did not make such statements [then]," added the BAP leader.
Mr. Fontaine attended Morgan State University, where in the 1970s he pursued a degree to become a registered nurse. A few credits shy of graduating from Morgan, he went to work as a longshoreman for ILA Local 333 to care for his family, and he rose through the ranks until becoming the unions labor coordinator for the Port of Baltimore, a position he led until retiring in 2010.
Acting Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan has sent a congratulatory message on the occasion of World Press Freedom Day.

The message particularly reads as follows:

Dear journalists, colleagues,

I congratulate us all on the occasion of World Press Freedom Day. The Government of Armenia attaches great importance to the role of freedom of press in the countrys development, the strengthening of democracy and the ensuring of public oversight.

I am certain that Armenian press has never been as free in the past thirty years as it is today, and this has also been recorded by international organizations. According to the World Press Freedom Index of the Reporters Without Borders international organization, in 2019, Armenia made progress by ranking 61st, compared with 2018. In 2020, Armenia maintained its position, but it dropped by 2 points in 2021, and this was mainly due to certain restrictions set as a result of the coronavirus pandemic and the war. Nevertheless, Armenia remains one of the countries with the most freedom of the press in the post-Soviet territory.

I am certain that Armenia will continue to make progress in the near future. I believe it is important for media representatives to ensure objectivity and provide full and comprehensive information to the public. The crises of the coronavirus pandemic and the war showed the importance of and need for meeting these objectives.

Freedom of the press is the major value that we Armenians must maintain and enhance. Long live free press, long live free journalists!
What is happening in Shushi is none other than cultural genocide, cultural terrorism and cultural Nazism. This is what Minister of Foreign Affairs of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) Davit Babayan said, commenting, at the request of Armenian News-NEWS.am, on the destruction of the domes of the Ghazanchetstots Holy Savior Cathedral in Shushi by the Azerbaijanis.

With this, the Azerbaijani authorities are actually trying to deal and are dealing a tangible blow to Armenians historical memory and pride, but we Armenians need to resist this and will resist it. It is necessary to understand that what is happening at Ghazanchetsots now might be for tactical purposes. By making an assault against Ghazanchetsots and destroying the angel statues and crosses, Azerbaijan is specifically calling attention to this and pursuing a few goals. The first is to deal a blow to Armenians identity, pride and self-love. The second is to pave a way for the country by distracting our attention from what is going on in the seized territories. It is also likely that Azerbaijan is trying to distract attention from humanitarian issues, as well as the issues of the prisoners of war, hostages and other issues. We have certain fears that the Azerbaijanis are dealing with the sale of organs there.

We have conveyed our position and concerns to many circles. Perhaps the Azerbaijanis felt that it crimes may be investigated and have decided to make an attack to distract attention and focus on Ghazanchetsots. They are mocking international law, the international community and solving their issues.

We Armenians need to realize that all of our victories and defeats depend on us. As for the Azerbaijanis, I would like to remind them that those who destroy the house of God wont go unpunished, but thats a different story, Babayan concluded.
SIU School of Law commencement ceremony is May 7

by Pete Rosenbery

CARBONDALE, Ill.  Former Illinois State Sen. Paul Schimpf, a 2000 SIU School of Law alumnus, will deliver the keynote address during commencement ceremonies on May 7.

The in-person ceremony at 2 p.m. in Saluki Stadium is for 61 graduates in the Class of 2021 and 102 graduates from the law schools 2020 class. The ceremony will follow protocols of the Restore Illinois Plan. Social distancing and masks will be required for all participants, guests and staff.

Chancellor Austin Lane will confer degrees at the ceremony led by Steve Macias, School of Law associate dean.

We are very proud of the Classes of 2020 and 2021 for their resilience, cooperation and achievements during these challenging times for our community, School of Law Dean Camille Davidson said. We want to thank the faculty, staff, families and friends who provided invaluable support. We look forward to seeing all of our graduates as alumni in person at future School of Law receptions and reunions.

The Class of 2021 selected Patricia Pfeiffer, a graduating law student from Carbondale, to be the class speaker, with Steve Ellingsworth of Paducah, Kentucky, a May 2020 graduate, representing that class.

The ceremony marks the 45th anniversary of the law schools first graduating class of 1976. Professors Angela Upchurch and Cynthia Fountaine will represent the Classes of 2020 and 2021, respectively, as faculty speakers. The ceremony will also feature law school alumni formally hooding six family members who are students from the two classes.

Schimpf to deliver keynote address

Schimpf, who is from Waterloo, is a former military prosecutor who served as chief American adviser to Iraqi prosecutors in former Iraqi dictator Saddam Husseins trial. After graduating from high school, Schimpf earned an appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, and was commissioned a second lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corps after graduation. After attending law school, he continued in the military in several legal-related posts before retiring in 2013 and going into private practice. In February, Schimpf announced he was seeking the Republican nomination for Illinois governor.

As a public university, SIU does not promote or oppose political candidates. SIU complies with the Illinois Governmental Ethics Act and State Officials and Employees Ethics Act.

Ceremony will also recognize Pakistani attorney, human rights activist

Hina Jilani, a leading activist in the Pakistani womens movement, will be recognized with the law schools Rule of Law citation. The citation is a formal recognition by law school faculty of the important tradition of the legal profession that requires lawyers to stand firm in support of liberty and justice in the face of oppression and, by their words and actions, to honor and support the Rule of Law, even at great personal risk.

A commencement hood and scroll will be placed on an empty chair to symbolize attorneys who are suffering for their actions as legal advocates.

Jilani and her late sister, Asma Jahangir, formed the first all-female legal aid practice in the country. She assisted in founding the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan and the Womens Action Forum, and assisted in creating Dastak, a shelter for abused women that also conducts workshops to bring awareness to human rights issues and protection of women. She is a member of The Elders, a group founded by Nelson Mandela. In 2020, Jilani, who is also president of the World Organization Against Torture, received the Stockholm Human Rights Award. She continues to practice law in spite of being arrested, intimidated and facing murder attempts on her and her family.
By John Irish

PARIS (Reuters) -An anti-corruption group has submitted a legal complaint in France against Lebanon's central bank governor over foreign investments including property he owns worth millions of euros, two people involved in the filing said on Monday.

Sherpa, a non-governmental organisation that defends victims of economic crimes, said in a statement that it and a group of lawyers had filed the complaint on Friday over "suspicious" real estate purchases in France.

Central Bank Governor Riad Salemeh told Reuters he had proved and shown documents on many occasions highlighting that the source of his wealth was acquired before taking up his post in 1993.

"I have also declared that my properties in France were acquired prior to being governor," he said.

Salameh's brother, son and an associate are also named in the legal complaint, said Laura Rousseau, head of the illicit financial flows programme at Sherpa.

"We are targeting the ill-gotten gains acquired in France and more specifically we are targeting the numerous investments overseas that make the suspicious origins of his (Salameh's) fortune in France," she told Reuters.

Lebanon's financial and political elite have long been under scrutiny over allegations of mismanagement, corruption and obstructing efforts to unlock international aid.

It is the latest complaint filed on suspected Lebanese corruption to authorities in Europe.

Salameh has dismissed previous corruption allegations against him as a smear campaign.

The 81-page complaint in France, seen by Reuters, outlines what it says are assets, companies and investment vehicles across Europe worth hundreds of millions of euros which it alleges Salameh, members of his family and his associates used over years to divert funds out of Lebanon.

France's National Financial Prosecutor, where the compliant was filed with the Collective Association of Victims of Fraudulent and Criminal Practices in Lebanon, was not immediately available for comment.

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The complaint also lists almost 20 senior Lebanese politicians and suggests that bank owners and shareholders who could also be targeted in the future.

Lebanon faces a financial crisis in which banks have blocked most transfers abroad and cut access to deposits as dollars grew scarce. The meltdown has dragged down the currency, prompted a sovereign default and fuelled widespread poverty.

"At the end of this affair, France will have to ensure that ill-gotten funds will be returned to serve the general interest, improve the living conditions of the Lebanese, strengthen the rule of law and fight against corruption," Sherpa said.

(Reporting by John Irish; Additional reporting by Matthieu Protard, Laila Bassam and Maha El Dahan, Editing by Alison Williams and Timothy Heritage)
But the presidential determination went unsigned until Monday. Biden said he first needed to expand the narrow eligibility criteria put in place by Trump that had kept out most refugees. He did that last month in an emergency determination. But it also stated that Trumps cap of up to 15,000 refugees this year remains justified by humanitarian concerns and is otherwise in the national interest.
Kent Nishimura/Getty

One would think the charging of some 440 Capitol marauders would defang right-wing extremists. Likewise, their de-platforming on social media and the exit of the president who inspired them. Likewise, the splintering of groups like the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers, whose members have been rounded up by authorities for storming the citadel.

Nope. That wont stop them.

Experts who monitor domestic terrorism say were heading into an even more dangerous phase post-Jan.6. These groups are fragmenting and losing the ability to vent frustration in a public manner. But that does not mean they are going away. It means that a lot of angry radicals are growing angrier.

You will see a period of growth, says Daryl Johnson, the former lead analyst for domestic terrorism for the Department of Homeland Security.

The people on the outside periphery will likely distance themselves and get out of the movement. But the pool inside is going to be more hardcore and resolved.

He predicts more violence during the rest of President Joe Bidens term. And maybe for many more years after that. While were unlikely to see a mass event like Jan. 6 that brought together 10,000 people at the Capitol, there could be more local attacks on a smaller but maybe more lethal scalecar rammings, assassination plots, and bombings of state government buildings, infrastructure, or places where ordinary folks gather.

FedEx Shooter in Indianapolis Visited White Supremacist Sites, Cops Say

For sure, some of the core 1,000 who breached the Capitol are spooked by the legal consequences. But a sense of glory surrounding the insurrection and resentment will animate the more committed militants. While theyve lost their megaphone in Trump, other politicians amplify his message in the mainstream political discourse. And more fodder exists for recruitment among right-wingers fearful of anti-gun legislation and the expansion of minority rights under a Democratic president. The stressors of the pandemic remain. People are socially estranged, under financial stress, and fearful of change. Gun sales have exploded since Jan. 6.

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Shutting down accounts on Twitter, Facebook, or Parler doesnt shut up extremists. They simply migrate to other spaces like the Telegram messaging system. Conversations are still happening among extremists who encourage each other to make trouble.

No one knows for sure how many combustible individuals lurk about, but militias number in the hundreds across the country. Johnson estimates there could be as many as 145,000 active members of anti-government groups including the Oath Keepers, Three Percenters, Boogaloo Boys, and Proud Boys. Add to that hundreds of thousands of white supremacists and millions of QAnon believers.

You just need a handful of guys willing to get into risky situations, like the six militia members charged last year with plotting to kidnap Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.

And there are certainly a lot of guns circulating with which to create trouble. For the second year running, firearms sales have hit record numbers so far this year. According to the FBI, March 15-21 alone posted the highest number of weekly background checksmore than 1.2 millionsince 1998.

Oren Segal, vice president of the Anti-Defamation Leagues Center on Extremism, worries most about individuals with violent tendencies who arent necessarily card-carrying members of a paramilitary. Sometimes a cluster is just a couple of buddies who meet in someones basement.

Of the first 257 people charged in federal court for taking part in the Capitol insurrection, only 33 percent were identified with a militant network, according to a study by the George Washington University Program on Extremism. That means the vast majority were unaffiliated but motivated by the pro-Trump narrative.

The less organized they are, the more dangerous they are, Segal says. The FBI can more easily infiltrate an organization like the Oath Keepers, which draws members from the military and law enforcement. But with groups like the Proud Boys splintering, rogue members are harder to monitor. Networks that break up can realign under so many different names that its impossible to keep track.

Then there are the lone actors. They could be socially isolated but very much part of a wider ideological community that exists online.

Some of the most violent events weve seen in recent years were perpetrated by self-radicalized gunmen who operated on their own. They didnt belong to a given group. The shooter who killed 23 people at an El Paso Walmart in 2019. The gunman who slaughtered 11 people at Pittsburghs Tree of Life synagogue the year before. Dylann Roof, who fatally shot nine African Americans at a Charleston church in 2015.

These individuals may act alone but think they have people behind them, notes Arie Kruglanski, a University of Maryland professor of psychology who studies radicalization. Mass shooters know they will be remembered. Their community can be assumed or imagined. The white supremacist who killed 70 people in Norway in 2011, for instance, believed he was a protector of the race, even if he didnt consult anyone else.

The lone wolf is not as lonely as it appears, Kruglanski warns.

Last year saw a notable absence of mass killings, probably as a function of the pandemic. The opening of public spaces, however, has coincided with at least 147 mass shooting incidents that have killed 166 so far this year. We are likely to experience even more mass slaughter that is politically motivated, predicts Brian Levin, the director of the Center for the Study of Hate and Extremism at the California State University, San Bernardino.

We may also see a diversification of targets from minority groups to political figures, reporters, and public health officials. Extremists have many grievancesland use, guns, COVID restrictions, unemployment, loss of status. They may confuse or conflate different issues as they chat with others online.

You have highly volatile people who can be picked up by a variety of conspiracies and movements with violent leanings, Levin says. Thats a big reservoir to swim in.

Geographic data on arrests so far could provide clues into where trouble might flare next. A study by the Chicago Project on Security and Threats found that over half of the Capitol rioters who converged from 42 states came from counties that President Joe Biden won. This smashes the common assumption that the Trump fans who resort to violence would mainly hail from his strongholds. In fact, more came from cities and suburbs where they were in the political minority, and thus probably felt marginalized. The largest numbers came from Florida, Pennsylvania, Texas, New York, and Californiaall places with racial diversity.

These numbers coincide with geographic trends in hate crimes and racist violence examined by Arie Perliger, the director of Security Studies at the University of Massachusetts, Lowell. The same blue states crop up in attacks on minorities or synagogues. Perliger says most incidents before Jan. 6 occurred not in the deep red South but in rural and suburban areas of blue states that have the highest levels of diversity. New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, California, and even Massachusetts. Spot the pattern here?

Of the more than 650 violent incidents between 1990 and 2017, Tennessee suffered just 80. California had more than 900 incidents and Illinois over 200.

In these kinds of states, the polarization and animosity are more toxic, explains Perliger. In Alabama there is little divide; its overwhelmingly conservative. But New York state poses more toxic potential due to the split between the blueish New York City and the reddish upstate.

Anxiety about the economy also fuels xenophobia against growing Hispanic and Asian populations, which are viewed as competition in the labor market, he notes,

Heres what we need to look out for: states like Georgia that tipped blue, where there is change, demographically and politically. Is there a particular issue that makes right-wingers feel under siege? Is there a charismatic rabble rouser? Study where violent incidents occurred pre-Jan. 6. Last year, Trump supporters stormed state capitols in Oregon and Michigan. In response to lockdowns and restrictions, armed protests flared in Ohio, Kentucky, California, Arizona, and Virginia. These could be hot spots in the months ahead.

Judith Matloff teaches conflict reporting at Columbias Graduate School of Journalism. Her latest book is How to Drag a Body and Other Safety Tips You Hope to Never Need.

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(AFP via Getty Images)

Facebooks independent oversight board is to announce on Wednesday whether to uphold Donald Trumps indefinite suspension from the social media platform and Instagram.

Facebook blocked Mr Trumps access to his Facebook and Instagram accounts over concerns of further violent unrest following the 6 January storming of the US Capitol by his supporters. It later handed the case to the oversight board.

Meanwhile, the Biden administration has accused China of acting aggressively while North Korea has warned the US of an all out showdown as relations between Washington and its foes in the Asia-Pacific region worsen.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in an interview that aired on Sunday that China had recently acted more aggressively abroad and was behaving increasingly in adversarial ways.

North Korea lashed out at the United States and its allies in South Korea on Sunday in a series of statements saying recent comments from Washington are proof of a hostile policy that requires a corresponding response from Pyongyang, calling it a provocation that shows the United States is girding itself up for an all-out showdown.

Read more:
By Jeff Mason

NORFOLK, Va. (Reuters) -President Joe Biden on Monday called on wealthy Americans and corporations to pay their "fair share" to fund free community college and other benefits for workers as he promoted his sweeping jobs and safety-net plans in Virginia.

Speaking at Tidewater Community College in the port city of Norfolk, Biden said his proposed expansion of the U.S. public education system would rebalance the economy and benefit lower-income Americans.

The United States could provide two free years of post-secondary education by raising the top income tax rate to the level it was in 2001, Biden said. He has proposed increasing the top marginal rate for the wealthiest Americans to 39.6% from 37%.

"The choice is about who the economy serves. And so I plan on giving tax breaks to the working-class folks and making everybody pay their fair share," he said.

The Democratic president faces significant opposition from Republicans to his tax and spending plans, even with his promise that individuals making less than $400,000 annually will not be affected. Democrats hold slim majorities in the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate.

Biden has vowed to work with lawmakers from both parties, but no Republicans voted for his $1.9 trillion pandemic relief package, the biggest legislative achievement of Biden's presidency so far.

He may have less than two years to fulfill his big campaign promises if Republicans win control of one or both chambers of Congress in the November 2022 election.

The president and top administration officials are traveling the country to stir up enthusiasm for his proposals in the hopes that public support will translate to Republican votes in Congress.

On Monday, Biden, joined by his wife, community college professor Jill Biden, reviewed science projects with a class of fifth-grade students at an elementary school in nearby Yorktown before visiting the community college. The students had clear shields in front of their desks as a guard against the coronavirus.

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EXPANDING FREE SCHOOLING

The school visits are part of a tour to sell Biden's $2.3 trillion plan to rebuild roads, broadband and other infrastructure, and a social-spending package that includes $1 trillion on education and childcare over 10 years and $800 billion in tax credits aimed at middle- and low-income families.

The second plan would expand America's 13 years of free public schooling at both ends, adding two years of preschool for 3-and 4-year olds and two years of community college for those who have completed high school.

Funded by higher taxes on corporations and wealthy Americans, the two proposals taken together would amount to the biggest domestic spending initiative since the 1960s.

"It is paid for by making sure corporate America and the wealthiest 1% pay their fair share," Biden said.

Biden and other advocates promote community college as an affordable, accessible gateway to a wide range of careers, from nursing to advanced manufacturing.

During the United States' industrial heyday in the 20th century, workers could easily find factory jobs that paid a middle-class wage with only a high school degree or less.

But globalization and automation have spurred employers to demand a higher level of skills, including deeper technical knowledge and broader critical-thinking abilities, according to Georgetown University's Center on Education and the Workforce.

Now, two out of three U.S. jobs require some sort of education or training beyond high school.

Community colleges typically provide two years of education, leading to either an associate's degree or a start on a four-year college degree.

Roughly 11.8 million students were enrolled in 1,044 U.S. community colleges in 2019, according to the American Association of Community Colleges. Tuition averaged $3,770 a year, about one-third of the cost of a four-year public college.

(Reporting by Jeff Mason; Additional reporting by Andy Sullivan, Merdie Nzanga and Steve Holland; Writing by Andy Sullivan; Editing by Heather Timmons, Jonathan Oatis and Peter Cooney)
Photo Illustration by The Daily Beast/Getty

Joe Biden once pledged to undo the moral and national shame of the Trump administrations border policiesand even voiced remorse over some actions taken under President Barack Obama. But The Daily Beast has found that his administration is redoubling the federal governments dealings with a notorious contractor accused of abusing immigrants and its own employees.

The Biden administration has, in the past month, enlarged one contract and signed another entirely new oneworth a collective $136 millionwith a controversial private security and intelligence firm for the transport of migrant families and unaccompanied minors in government custody. MVM, Inc., a company previously perhaps best known for acting as a contractor for the CIA and the NSA in Iraq, has in recent years become a major player in the U.S. governments treatment of asylum-seekers, all the while inviting scrutiny for an apparently lax approach to the safety of those in its care. During the infamous 2018 family separation policy, MVM was found to be holding children, including some separated from their parents, in an abandoned Phoenix office building.

Most disturbingly, in the past six months alone, MVM has had to shell out $1.8 million to settle federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission claims that it had discriminated against African immigrant workers and subjected women on its payroll to sexual harassment and retaliation. This rattled good government advocates, even though the company avoided any admission of wrongdoing.

I Was Told to Not Tell People Where I Worked: This For-Profit Shelter for Migrant Kids Has a Shady Past

The two cases raise profound questions of MVMs corporate integrity and responsibility, said Nick Schwellenbach, senior investigator at the nonprofit Project On Government Oversight and a Daily Beast contributor. Especially given the Biden administrations emphasis on combatting discrimination, it shouldnt award new contract dollars to companies that systematically violate federal anti-discrimination law.

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Neither MVM nor the White House responded to requests for comment for this story.

In addition to many other federal contracts, since 2014 MVM has received hundreds of millions of dollars from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to ferry unaccompanied minors from the custody of Customs and Border Protection (CBP)the enforcement agency that typically has initial custody of asylum-seekers arriving at the southern borderto the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), which by law is responsible for caring for such minors.

On March 29, DHS exercised an option that more than doubled the size of its current contract for transport of children and families to a $128 million obligated amount, with the possibility of further expansions.

Experts on federal procurement policy said this reflected a conscious decision in the Biden administration to increase its business with MVM, likely to avoid the inconvenience of bidding out the job through the usual competitive process.

"Theyre definitely continuing that contract, said Laura Peterson, senior research advisor at the National Whistleblower Center and a former staffer on the Senates Homeland Security and Government Affairs Committee. The government can keep going back to the well over and over with these options or these modifications, and its easier for the government.

Four days earlier, on March 25, MVM had signed a new contract with HHS for staffing and resources necessary to arrange travel and escort for [unaccompanied children] in [Office of Refugee Resettlement] custody, referencing the HHS sub-agency that oversees migrant minors. The description appears to state that the services will be performed in part at recently set-up emergency influx shelters in Dallas and Midland, Texas. The initial $20 million amount was expanded by $52 million on April 22 as a result of additional work, for a total of $72 million so far.

HHS declined to comment for this story, and ICE did not respond to a request for comment. A spokesman for CBP said the agency would ensure a contractor would adhere to the terms of its contract, but would defer to ICE on its contracting decisions.

In the past month, meanwhile, MVM has posted a raft of new job opportunities on the site Glassdoor.com, largely for travel youth care workers, transportation coordinators, and logistics specialists. Several of the listings indicate that the employees will assist with family reunification efforts.

While HHS has hired MVM to provide security and shelter services in the past, this marks the first time that MVM has inked a contract with the agency to provide transportation and logistics assistance with migrant minors. The description of the services indicates that the contractor has now been hired not only to bring children into ORR custody but to transport them internally within ORRs own nationwide stable of shelter facilities, including from unlicensed influx shelters.

This represents a significant expansion in the scope of duties for a private firm thats been dogged by documented instances of carelessness and secrecy even just with respect to its handling of migrant children. In addition to the office building incident, MVM last year infamously began keeping minors in hotels while they awaited expulsion under the CDC Title 42 order, a Trump-era measure tenuously tied to the coronavirus pandemic that allowed CBP to quickly remove migrants before they could even make an asylum claim. A viral video from July 2020 shows an attorney with the Texas Civil Rights Project attempting to speak to children held at a Texas Hampton Inn and being aggressively manhandled by MVM personnel. Attorneys and advocates complained that no one was being allowed to check the status of or communicate with children in these hotels, and that it wasnt clear if MVMs security-focused employees had the training or capacity to provide care for them.

This is a really abusive company that has profited off of the worst of this countrys policies regarding detention, torture, and widespread abuses, said Jesse Franzblau, senior policy analyst at the National Immigrant Justice Center, referencing not only MVMs domestic migrant transfer work but contracts to provide guard services at the Migrant Operations Center in Guantanamo Bay. This administration, while leading with this rhetoric around having a humane approach towards immigrationits really terrible that they are continuing these contracts.

Watchdogs found the allegations that triggered the EEOC claims unsettling as well. In December 2020, MVM coughed up $1.6 million to get rid of a federal lawsuit that accused it of subjecting African immigrant security personnel to verbal abuseincluding a managers mockery of their accents and comments about how the company had brought on too many Africansforced them to work on days off, threatened them with dismissal, and even fired some without cause. Less than a month later, it paid out $200,000 to resolve separate litigation that charged one of its managers made unwanted physical and verbal advances toward a number of female employees. When one complained, the suit asserted, the company canned her.

Nathan Lane Teases The Birdcage Sequel: This Idea Is So Good

This was hardly MVMs first run-in with EEOC: in 2017, the federal regulator took the firm to court over claims a supervisor forced a Muslim worker to shave his beard after he complained about being called a n-gga. The company settled then, too, and the worker walked away with $135,000. In each case, in answer to the EEOC complaints, MVMs attorneys admitted many of the allegations and denied some, but generally sought to get the suits thrown out on legal technicalitiesbefore the company finally settled.

Schwellenbach, of the Project on Government Oversight, noted that these deals allow MVM to get away without admitting wrongdoing or risking debarment from future government business.

MVMs managers engaged in large-scale discrimination, he said. Its employees filed complaints internally and faced retaliation as a result. That points to a toxic corporate culture that goes to the top, rather than just bad managers.

In recent days, the number of minors being taken into CBP custody at the border has dipped, though the figures remain near historic highs. This is at least partly due to the Biden administrations decision to maintain the Title 42 order, which continues to bar adults and familiesbut no longer unaccompanied childrenfrom presenting asylum claims. This child exemption, first ordered by a federal judge and now followed voluntarily by the administration, has incentivized families to send their children into the country alone, along with others who have traveled to the border by themselves.

The government has been struggling to quickly transfer children from CBP custody, where theyre only supposed to be for a maximum of 72 hours, to HHS. Over the course of April, it managed to significantly reduce this number, from over 5,000 at the beginning of the month to less than 1,000 on April 29. However, MVMs history raises concerns about the safety of the transfer process, particularly now that the company is involved in moving children around ORR shelters.

A staffer at the House Homeland Security Committee, which has direct oversight over the treatment of unaccompanied minors at the border, confirmed to The Daily Beast that they had not been informed of the contract or given any details by HHS. The lack of transparency is a huge concern. These contracts seem to be negotiated and go forward with little to no oversight, said Franzblau, of the National Immigrant Justice Center.

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Secretary of State Antony Blinken defended the Biden administration's handling of the growing crisis at the southern border in an interview with CBS' "60 Minutes" airing Sunday.

Details: Blinken told CBS' Norah O'Donnell the "border is not open" and said the administration had "inherited a totally broken system." O'Donnell asked Blinken whether President Biden's policies, such as using his executive authority to curb deportations, had contributed to the marked increase in migrant arrivals.

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Blinken replied the focus was to ensure "unaccompanied minors are treated humanely and according to the law." The exchange continued:

O'DONNELL: "Is it problematic to tell migrants, 'Well, no you can't come here,' and then at the same time create a different situation on the ground that does allow them to come?

BLINKEN: "But the point is that they're not. One of the challenges that we've had is that traffickers and others are trying to tell them that 'the border's open.' It's not.

O'DONNELL: "But children are being allowed in, and then they're being..."

BLINKEN: "Children are the one exception, because we will not ... it is the right thing to do. We are not going to abide the notion that children are kept in a precarious, dangerous situation. That is unacceptable."

Of note: In the wide-ranging interview, Blinken also spoke of threats posed by China's government. During the two-hour phone call with President Xi Jinping in February, Biden raised concerns about "actions that China has taken," including "in the economic area" and intellectual property theft, according to Blinken.

He noted that China has been "acting more repressively at home and more aggressively abroad" over the past several years, but said it's "profoundly against the interests of both China and the United States" to head toward a military confrontation.

"Our purpose is not to contain China, to hold it back, to keep it down. It is to uphold this rules-based order, that China is posing a challenge to. Anyone who poses a challenge to that order, we're going to stand up and-- and defend it."

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For the record: Blinken also spoke of his visit to Ukraine this Wednesday and Thursday and concerns about Russia:

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Editor's note: This article has been updated with new details throughout.

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KABUL, Afghanistan (AP)  A bomb exploded near a school in western Afghanistan on Monday wounding 21 people, many them young students, a provincial official said.

Ambulances rushed to the site and took the wounded to nearby hospitals, said Abdul Jabar Shahiq, head of the health department in Farah province. At least 10 of the wounded were students at the school between the ages of 7 and 13, he said. He added that three of the wounded were in critical condition.

No one immediately claimed responsibility for the attack, though Taliban insurgents have a presence in the region.

The bombing came three days after a powerful suicide truck bomb struck a guesthouse in eastern Afghanistan killing 21 people and wounding 90 others. Most of the casualties in that attack in Lagor province were high school students. No one has claimed responsibility for the late Friday night bombing in Pul-e-Alam, the capital of Logar.

The attack comes two days after the remaining 2,500 to 3,500 American troops officially began leaving the country. They will be out by Sept. 11 at the latest. The pullout comes amid a resurgent Taliban, who control or hold sway over half of Afghanistan.

The top U.S. military officer said Sunday that Afghan government forces face an uncertain future and possibly some bad possible outcomes against Taliban insurgents as the withdrawal accelerates in the coming weeks.
The San Gabriel River. Legislation proposed by California's two senators would designate more than 583 miles of river in the state  including 45 miles of San Gabriel River tributaries, as well as Little Rock Creek  as "wild and scenic rivers," a protection that prohibits dams or new mining. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times)

California could get 600,000 new acres of federally protected wilderness under legislation introduced in the U.S. Senate recently. The designation would ensure the lands remain free of development, vehicles and commercial activity.

In total, the package introduced by Sen. Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and co-sponsored by Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) would expand protections for more than 1 million acres of public land in the state, officials said.

Our public lands and natural spaces are indeed our nations greatest treasures, Padilla said Monday at a news conference at the Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area in Irwindale. If the legislation is successful, the site will be the center of a new 50,000-acre national recreation area covering foothill areas of the San Gabriel Mountains and portions of the San Gabriel River and the Rio Hondo.

These lands are not just precious for their stunning scenery but also for their important biodiversity and the role that they play in keeping our environment strong and resilient, Padilla said.

Sen. Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) speaks at a news conference at Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area in Irwindale, where he announced legislation to protect more than 1 million acres of California's public land. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times)

The package, which consists of three bills approved by the U.S. House in February, would add more than 109,000 acres to San Gabriel Mountains National Monument and designate 30,000 acres of wilderness, roughly half of it in a region at its western end that was left out when then-President Obama designated the monument in 2014.

It would also designate more than 583 miles of river  including 45 miles of San Gabriel River tributaries, as well as Little Rock Creek  as wild and scenic rivers, a protection that prohibits dams or new mining.

About 17 million people  or one in 20 Americans  live within a 90-minute drive of the San Gabriel Mountains, yet for many communities of color, such open-space areas remain inaccessible, said Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda Solis.

A staggering 82% of communities of color in the county lack green space and many suffer from air pollution, from asthma, childhood obesity and other ailments, Solis said. The San Gabriel Mountains make up 70% of L.A. Countys open space and offer a critical open space for all of these impacted communities.

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The additions to the protected lands will ensure these resources are expanded and preserved for generations to come, she said.

A Canada goose takes a drink at the Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area in Irwindale. About 17 million people  or one in 20 Americans  live within a 90-minute drive of the San Gabriel Mountains. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times)

The package of legislation would also designate as wilderness about 262,000 acres of public lands in northwest California and 288,000 acres of land in the Los Padres National Forest and Carrizo Plain National Monument, as well as establish a 400-mile-long Condor National Scenic Trail stretching from Los Angeles to Monterey County.

The legislation advances a goal endorsed by President Biden and supported by California Gov. Gavin Newsom to conserve 30% of the nations lands and waters by 2030, said Wade Crowfoot, California's secretary for natural resources.

He noted that the protection of 1 million acres of California land equates to one out of every 100 acres in the state.

Simply put, this is a big deal, he said.

Andrew Morales, also known as Guiding Young Cloud, right, leads a prayer before a news conference to announce proposed legislation to protect more than 1 million acres of California public land. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times)

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Associated Press

From alleged drug trafficking and a murder cover-up to weapons transfers to Islamic militants, a convicted crime ringleader has been dishing the dirt on members of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogans ruling party through a series of tell-all videos that have captivated the nation and turned him into an unlikely social media phenomenon. Sedat Peker, a 49-year-old fugitive crime boss, who once openly supported Erdogans Justice and Development Party, has been releasing nearly 90-minute long videos from his stated base in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, making scandalous but yet-unproven drip-by-drip allegations, in an apparent bid to settle scores with political figures. The weekly YouTube videos have been viewed more than 75 million times, causing an uproar, heightening concerns over Turkish state corruption and putting officials on the defensive.
(Reuters) -Wealthsimple said on Monday it has raised C$750 million ($610.40 million) in its latest funding round, which more than doubled the Canadian fintech company's valuation to C$5 billion.

The latest funding round included participation from celebrities Drake, Michael Fox and Ryan Reynolds, according to the company.

The Toronto-based company that has helped make stock trading, peer-to-peer money transfers and tax filing easily accessible, said it will use the amount raised to further expand its market position, product suite and team.

The latest funding round, led by venture capital firms Meritech and Greylock, also includes investments from iNovia, Sagard, TSV and Redpoint.

The funding consists of C$250 million primary fundraising by Wealthsimple and a C$500 million secondary offering by holding company Power Corp of Canada, its largest shareholder.

Wealthsimple said it has seen rapid growth in the past 14 months as Canadians took an interest in stock trading during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Earlier this year, the company said it plans to grow revenue by adding premium features for its clients.

($1 = 1.2288 Canadian dollars)

(Reporting by Eva Mathews and Tiyashi Datta in Bengaluru; Editing by Shailesh Kuber and Shounak Dasgupta)
The biggest problem is becoming familiar with the new departmental policy and incorporating major behavioral changes. Practical issues include, for example, constantly reminding oneself to activate and, when appropriate, deactivate the body-worn camera according to departmental policy. Of course, it is extremely important to avoid embarrassment by forgetting to turn off your device during private moments such as going to the bathroom, for example, and other personal exempted activities that should not be shared with others.
Two weeks after veteran Chadian leader Idriss Deby Itno was mortally wounded fighting a rebel force, one of his predecessors, ex-president Goukouni Weddeye, has called for inclusive dialogue to "save Chad".

Goukouni, who ruled the turbulent Sahel country from 1980 to 1982, urged "reconciliation to end our quarrels," in a process that would embrace the Libyan-based rebels who claimed Deby's life.

The rebels of the Front for Change and Concord in Chad (FACT) mounted an offensive in April, threatening to advance on the capital N'Djamena, before the army fought them back.

A junta, formally known as the Transitional Military Council (CMT), took over after Deby's death and on Sunday named a transitional government.

The junta's head, Deby's 37-year-old son Mahamat, has vowed to eradicate the rebel force, ruling out negotiations.

But Goukouni, 77, said in an interview with AFP "the destruction of the country" was the major risk, and questioned the hard line.

"We have to bring them (the rebels) in too. We cannot consider them as criminal enemies and reject them. It is impossible," he said, suggesting a "round table" negotiating format.

Dressed in an immaculate white robe and sporting a neatly trimmed goatee, Goukouni has evolved into a statesman since his early rebel days.

A figure who rarely makes public comments, he is being courted by leading players in the country's crisis, one of his aides said.

- Succession of rebellions -

Goukouni's nemesis was the ruthless Hissene Habre, sentenced by a special African court in Senegal in 2016 to life in jail for crimes against humanity.

It was the elder Deby who overthrew Habre in 1990, going on to repel several coup attempts and uprisings to rule for 30 years, winning a string of elections in the face of a fragmented opposition and boycotts. In the hours before he died, Deby was proclaimed victor of the latest presidential poll in a landslide.

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Since Chads independence from France in 1960, the country has never seen a transfer of power through the ballot box. Goukouni, Habre and Deby each led a rebellion in their time.

Chad was thrown into turmoil by Deby's death, announced just the day after he was declared the winner of an April 11 election -- giving him a sixth mandate after 30 years at the helm.

Now, almost a fortnight after the junta took over, uncertainty reigns in the former French colony of around 16 million people.

Goukouni warned that opportunists could swoop in during a power vacuum.

Supporting the army would be the only way to ensure democratic elections down the road, he argued. The junta has vowed a transition within 18 months.

Chad, with a well respected fighting force, is central to the West's fight against jihadists in the Sahel, where myriad Islamist extremist groups operate.

Prime Minister Albert Pahimi Padacke paid a visit last week to Goukouni in the sumptuous residence the former rebel leader received from the senior Deby in 2009 upon his return from 22 years in exile.

Goukouni warned against vindictiveness.

The CMT "cannot talk like someone who wants a vendetta," he said. "We should not throw salt into the wound."

yas-dwi-ah/dyg/nb/gd/ri
Rep. Liz Cheney, the third-ranking House Republican, said Monday that anyone claiming the 2020 presidential election was stolen is "poisoning our democratic system," a direct response to former President Donald Trump.

"The 2020 presidential election was not stolen," Cheney, chair of the House Republican Conference, said in a tweet. "Anyone who claims it was is spreading THE BIG LIE, turning their back on the rule of law, and poisoning our democratic system."

A Cheney spokesman told NBC News that the congresswoman was responding to Trump's statement from earlier in the morning, in which he said: "The Fraudulent Presidential Election of 2020 will be, from this day forth, known as THE BIG LIE!"

Cheney, R-Wyo., also warned Monday that the GOP should not "whitewash" what happened on Jan. 6, telling a crowd of donors and scholars during an off-the-record interview with former House Speaker Paul Ryan, R-Wis., at the annual American Enterprise Institute retreat: "We can't embrace the notion the election is stolen."

"It's a poison in the bloodstream of our democracy," Cheney said in remarks first reported by CNN. An aide familiar with the comments confirmed the accuracy of to NBC News. "We can't whitewash what happened on January 6 or perpetuate Trump's big lie. It is a threat to democracy. What he did on Jan. 6 is a line that cannot be crossed."

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Cheney has refused to back down from her criticisms of Trump, despite growing pressure from other Republicans. She was the highest-ranking Republican to vote to impeach Trump for his role in egging on the Jan. 6 Capitol riot, and has been at odds with other members of House GOP leadership over embracing Trump and entertaining his election claims since then. She has repeatedly and forcefully rejected Trump's stolen election lie.

Use of "the big lie" to describe Trump's false narrative of a stolen election  a reference to a Nazi propaganda strategy  was popularized earlier this year. Soon after a pro-Trump mob attacked the Capitol in an attempt to block Congress from affirming President Joe Biden's victory, the then-president-elect accused Trump, along with Sens. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., and Ted Cruz, R-Texas, who both led objections to certified state vote totals, of perpetuating "the big lie."

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During Trump's second Senate impeachment trial, which began after the Democratic-controlled House charged him with a single count of incitement of insurrection, Democratic impeachment managers referred to "the big lie" repeatedly to describe Trump's persistent election untruths.

"The big lie" refers to an idea perpetuated by Nazi propaganda minister Joseph Goebbels, who said if one repeats a significant lie enough, people will start to believe it.

Trump's attempted commandeering of the phrase to fit his narrative on Monday, similar to his rebranding of "fake news" in the aftermath of the 2016 election, has been echoed by some conservatives. For example, Hawley has referred to "Biden's big lie about election integrity."

While Cheney has emerged as Trump's most powerful House Republican critic, an attempt in February by Trump allies to strip her of her leadership post failed overwhelmingly, 145 to 61.

The lopsided vote came by secret ballot, indicating broad private support for Cheney inside the conference, even though many have been wary of speaking out publicly for fear of igniting the ex-president's wrath.

Cheney's position has her at odds with House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., who has tried to keep his conference aligned with the former president. After initially assigning Trump blame for the riot  though he voted hours after the attack to block the counting of some electoral votes for Biden  McCarthy has worked to get back into the former president's good graces, including visiting Trump at his Mar-a-Lago club in Florida.

During a House GOP retreat last week, which was organized by Cheney, McCarthy refused to say whether she should remain a part of the House Republican leadership team.

"Thats a question for the conference," McCarthy told reporters at the Orlando retreat, adding, "I think from a perspective, if you're sitting here at a retreat that's focused on policy and focused on the future of making American next century, and you're talking about something else, you're not being productive."

Meanwhile, Rep. Jim Banks, R-Ind., chair of the Republican Study Committee, the largest House conservative caucus, told Axios on Friday that Cheney's continued criticism of Trump is "an unwelcome distraction."

Speaking with "Fox and Friends" on Tuesday, McCarthy said "there's no concern about" Cheney's impeachment vote from fellow House Republicans.

"I have heard from members concerned about her ability to carry out the job as conference chair, to carry out the message. We all need to be working as one if we're able to win the majority," McCarthy said, adding, "I haven't heard members concerned about her vote on impeachment, it's more concerned about the job ability to do and what's our best step forward that we can all work together instead of attacking one another."

A Cheney spokesperson, Jeremy Adler, said in a statement to NBC News following McCarthy's remarks: "This is about whether the Republican Party is going to perpetuate lies about the 2020 election and attempt to whitewash what happened on Jan 6."

"Liz will not do that," Adler said. "That is the issue."
Rep. Liz Cheney on Monday escalated her feud with former President Donald Trump and his supporters in Congress, issuing a less-than-subtle swipe at the former presidents latest attempt to claim the 2020 election was stolen from him.

On Monday morning, Trump issued a statement from his Save America PAC proclaiming that the presidential election will be, from this day forth, known as THE BIG LIE!  an attempt to appropriate the label given to the false claim by Trump and his Republican allies that last November's election was in fact won by the former president.

Less than an hour later, Cheney (R-Wyo.), who faces renewed pressure from Trump-aligned forces within the Republican caucus to remove her from House leadership over her direct rebukes of the former presidents falsehoods, swiped back on Twitter.

The 2020 presidential election was not stolen, Cheney wrote. Anyone who claims it was is spreading THE BIG LIE, turning their back on the rule of law, and poisoning our democratic system.

Cheney was the highest-ranking Republican to join Democrats in voting to impeach Trump last January for the role lawmakers said he played in inciting the Jan. 6 Capitol riots. She has since become a top target of Trump and his political allies and has already headed off one attempt to remove her as House GOP conference chair.

The Wyoming Republican kicked up a new round of Republican agita last week when she said support for Trump-backed challenges to the 2020 Electoral College results should be disqualifying for any Republican seeking the party's 2024 presidential nomination. Some top Republicans  including Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy  are reportedly waning in their support for Cheney amid the continued internal hostilities between her and the party's pro-Trump wing.

Trumps missive comes as Arizona's Republican-commissioned audit of the election results in Maricopa County  which includes the Phoenix metro area  is ongoing. The former president has latched onto the effort as the latest hope of proving that there was rampant voter fraud in the 2020 election he lost to President Joe Biden and issued a stream of statements trying to draw attention to the process.

Cindy McCain, the widow of Sen. John McCain, on Sunday derided the audit as a ludicrous attempt to undermine Bidens victory. McCain was one of Trump's fiercest GOP critics and became a top GOP surrogate during Biden's campaign.
By Luis Jaime Acosta

BOGOTA (Reuters) -Colombia's defense minister on Monday blamed illegal armed groups for looting and vandalism during five days of street protests but would not confirm how many demonstrators had died.

The protests, which began last week, demanded the withdrawal of a tax reform proposed by the government of President Ivan Duque, who said on Sunday the legislation would be retracted.

Demonstrations resumed on Monday in the capital, Bogota, and other cities including Medellin and Cali despite the announcement, with highways also blocked in some areas of the country.

"Colombia faces particular threats from criminal organizations that are behind these violent acts," Defense Minister Diego Molano told a news conference, adding those committing violence were not those marching peacefully.

Molano cited intelligence information in his allegation but did not offer further evidence.

Violent groups were financed and organized by leftist guerrillas of the National Liberation Army (ELN) and former FARC rebels who reject a 2016 peace deal, Molano added.

"We are saddened for all those who lost their lives due to criminal actions during these protests," Molano said.

He would not give specific details on the death toll, saying the attorney general's office would investigate.

The national human rights ombudsman has identified 18 civilians and one police officer who were killed during five days of protests, while the procurator's office said on Sunday it was investigating connections between the protests and 14 violent deaths.

A local human rights group has reported more than 20 deaths.

Truck drivers' and taxi drivers' unions, which had threatened to join protests on Monday, backed out of strikes following the withdrawal of the tax reform.

But some streets were closed by vehicles in Bogota and Medellin, while highways were blocked on the capital's outskirts, as well as in the center and southeast of the country.

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Bogota Mayor Claudia Lopez said 25% of the capital's mass transit system was out of service following vandalism and urged those who attended marches to get tested for COVID-19.

One major union said in a message on Twitter it would hold another national strike on Wednesday to protest a health reform, among other things.

(Reporting by Luis Jaime Acosta; Writing by Oliver Griffin; Editing by Steve Orlofsky and Peter Cooney)
FRANKFURT (Reuters) - Commerzbank is nearing a deal with labour representatives on its restructuring plan that includes 10,000 job cuts globally, people close to the matter said.

Management of Germany's second-biggest listed lender and the bank's works council have already reached an agreement in principle, they said, adding that the deal could be officially signed by the end of the week.

Spokespeople for Commerzbank and the works council declined to comment.

Commerzbank Chief Executive Manfred Knof said earlier this year that the turnaround plan would do without forced redundancies in Germany. The restructuring is instead focussing on early retirement programs.

As part of its restructuring, Commerzbank is shuttering 350 of its 800 branches in Germany and retreating from several countries.

Commerzbank hopes the revamp will revive its fortunes, as it struggles to restore profits after management reshuffles and strategy flip-flops. It has never fully recovered after a state bailout during the last financial crisis more than a decade ago and lost 2.9 billion euros ($3.5 billion) in 2020.

($1 = 0.8306 euros)

(Reporting by Patricia Uhlig; Writing by Arno Schuetze; Editing by Maria Sheahan)
There's an outpouring of support for a South Jersey high schooler in the fight of his life.

Video Transcript

- Now for the South Jersey High School in the fight of his life.

- Jadon Phillips is battling brain cancer. His family receiving the diagnosis just a few months ago. Action News reporter Katie Katro explains how the Delran community is going above and beyond to help.

CAISSE GORE: Getting ready to do some college visits and trying out for some football teams. And yeah, right now, that's all I hope.

KATIE KATRO: 17-year-old Jadon Phillips was recently diagnosed with brain cancer. His mother Caisse Gore says the Delran High School senior was supposed to be going to prom this year. But now, he's under her care going to radiation and chemotherapy.

CAISSE GORE: And I tend to him literally 24 hours a day. I'm sleeping probably like three hours total. And 24 hour time period, he requires a lot of care.

KATIE KATRO: His mother says Jadon can't walk now but there's been overwhelming support from the community. Family friends say they are pulling for Jadon and his family. Spring Williams says Caisse helped her while she was battling cancer, and now she is helping the family raise money to get a wheelchair accessible van.

SPRING WILLIAMS: She helped me to get through. So I just returned back to work. And coming back to work, she's not here because she's where she is.

KATIE KATRO: Though Jadon isn't in school right now, he has a message he wants to share with his community.

JADON PHILLIPS: Thank you, everybody on there for the love and support. I really appreciate it. It means so much. And I'm just going to keep going and working this thing out.

CAISSE GORE: But he'll be back. He'll be back there. Our faith is strong. Our support system is strong. He's going to get through it.

KATIE KATRO: In Delran, Katie Katro, Channel 6 Action News.
A key legislative committee voted overwhelmingly Monday to make telephone calls for Connecticut prison inmates free starting in October 2022.

The budget-writing appropriations committee voted to cover all costs after Gov. Ned Lamont recommended providing $1 million per year to help subsidize the calls because Connecticut has the second-highest rate in the nation for a 15-minute phone call. But Sen. Gary Winfield, a New Haven Democrat who co-chairs the legislatures judiciary committee, and other advocates maintained that the calls should be free. New York City has made the calls free, while other jurisdictions have reduced rates.

Advocates say that maintaining ties to family members is important to the inmates mental health  as shown by the impacts of isolation during the coronavirus pandemic. This is necessary, they said, as the inmates prepare to reenter society when they are released, including young people who are often from low-income families.

Families currently pay about $13.3 million per year for the calls  with the state receiving nearly $8 million and a prison telephone contractor receiving the rest, officials said. A new telephone contract had been expected to go out to bid in 2022. The state had been expected to drop the price of the calls from 23 cents per minute to 19 cents per minute, but advocates argued that the price reduction was not enough.

The measure still requires approval by the state House of Representatives and state Senate as part of the two-year, $46 billion budget that will be negotiated with Lamont in the coming weeks.

The committee also approved a key priority for Lamont by voting to improve access to broadband internet across the state.

A former cable television entrepreneur, Lamont says improved broadband is important for helping remote learning for education and spurring economic development in rural areas.

The measure would cost $2.9 million per year to hire 15 new state employees in various departments, including 10 at the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority, three at the environmental protection department and two at the Office of Consumer Counsel. Broadband companies would pay fees to cover the costs.

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The bill itself is already incorporated into the budget, said Sen. Cathy Osten, the committees co-chair. It is the governors request, and we have not changed his recommendations in the budget.

With help from the charitable foundation of Greenwich billionaire Ray Dalio, numerous laptops have already been delivered around the state so that students have easier access to the internet and families can participate in telehealth meetings with their doctors during the coronavirus pandemic.

Broadband is going to be a big priority, Lamont said earlier this year. Its absolutely invaluable for a lot of our towns. If you can do everything ... from Brooklyn, Connecticut, that you can from Brooklyn, New York, youre going to have a lot more young families, a lot more vibrancy. You dont have to be in that big city five days a week.

A longtime Greenwich resident who grew up on Long Island, Lamont said the pandemic has prompted thousands of New Yorkers to flee Manhattan and head to Connecticut for more space and a less-hectic lifestyle. Those New Yorkers have contributed to the economy and have helped spur the red-hot real estate market in many parts of the state, he said.

Lamont is calling for the telecommunications companies to build the infrastructure so that broadband can reach all portions of the state.

How fast you do that, how thats positioned, whether thats hard cable, whether thats 5G  Id like to leave that a little bit to the business community, he said. Thats the world I come from. They know how to get there perhaps best. We know where weve got to go.

All bills passed Monday are subject to final approval by the legislature before being signed into law by Lamont.

Christopher Keating can be reached at ckeating@courant.com
The Warner Theatre in Torrington has canceled a planned production of the historical drama I Am My Own Wife after criticism from the transgender community over the casting of a cisgender male in the lead role.

Complaints on Facebook about the Warners production of the one-actor show said trans voices should tell trans stories, echoing an ongoing debate about representation in the arts world.

It is incredibly damaging and harmful to trans people to cast cis men in trans womens roles, Embrys Graham, a genderfluid theater artist, wrote in emails to the Warner. It perpetuates the damaging idea that trans women are men in dresses. This concept has been the cause of hatred and violence against trans women.

The play, produced by Long Wharf Theater with a nonbinary actor in 2020, tells the true story of Charlotte von Mahlsdorf, who lived openly as a transgender woman through the Nazi and East German Communist regimes. Long Wharf was heralded for employing not just a nonbinary actor but an almost entirely nonbinary or transgender creative team amid a national discussion of cisgender actors portraying transgender characters.

The debate over representation in the arts has been gaining momentum, largely as it relates to the question of who should play parts portraying people in historically underrepresented groups. Most recently, a debate has unfolded over the casting of Ewan McGregor, who is straight, to play the gay designer Halston in an upcoming Netflix production.

Fly Jamerson, a director and playwright based in Nebraska, was among those critical of the Warners casting.

The bodies and gender expressions of actors give meaning to how we perceive the characters in a play, and casting cis actors in trans roles has historically had a negative impact on how members of the TGNC community are perceived and treated in the real world, Jamerson wrote in an email to the Courant.

Rufus de Rham, the new executive of the Warner, said his decision to cancel the production last week was rooted more in the opportunity to use the discussion as an opportunity for education than in the criticism.

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The intent was to tell this story from a sympathetic and respectful place. But this is a changing conversation that is happening in the world. It wasnt just because five people were calling us out on Facebook, de Rham said. Were taking this as an educational moment, and looking at ways to have a broader discussion. How we do this, when we dont have the resources a professional theater might, is what we are working on.

He said he has spoken to trans consultants and that there will be staff training on cultural sensitivity.

The actor originally cast for the production, T. Sean Maher, called the decision a kick in the teeth. I was told in advance there had been discussions, but I was told they were not going to cancel. Im not looking for sympathy  Im a worker and I lost my job. But I felt there were also saying This wasnt worth doing.

Of course Im sympathetic to the trans community; Im part of the LGBTQ community, said Maher, a gay Connecticut actor. Is [casting only a trans actor] a viable argument? Absolutely. Wouldnt it have been best to use this as an opportunity to educate?

The director of the Warner production, Katherine Ray, said she wasnt told about the cancellation until it had already been decided. Ray said she is the daughter of World War II refugees and relates to its tale of survival.

Its not just a gay history, its not just a trans history, its not just a Jewish history. Its a very complicated, complex, beautiful story.

Ray said the Warner chose the script, asked her to direct it, and accepted her choice of Maher, whom she worked with in the past, to star. Sean is a professional. You need someone who can strongly play 30 different characters.

Another production of the same play, scheduled for May in San Antonio, Texas, was canceled for the same reason.

In an email to the Courant, Wright acknowledged the evolution of both his and the cultural understanding of trans issues.

Since I wrote the play twenty years ago, the trans community has gained enormous visibility. It has been inspiring to witness, and I am thrilled that they have embraced my play and its heroine. The acting demands of the play are daunting; it requires a fearless actor to portray not only the titular character, but thirty others of various genders, nationalities, and self-determined identities, he wrote.

I have seen cis-male and trans actors triumph with the material, and I have also seen them overwhelmed by it. I support (and celebrate) the impetus of trans people for greater representation. I also empathize with the actor who prepared for the role only to see the production canceled. In the future, I hope theaters considering the play will first reach out to the LGBTQ+ community for open, transparent conversations about casting expectations around I Am My Own Wife. 

Christopher Arnott can be reached at carnott@courant.com.
A California mom has been charged after falsely accusing a couple of trying to kidnap her children, Sonoma County prosecutors said.

Katie Sorensen of Sonoma faces misdemeanor charges after she falsely accused a Latino couple of trying to kidnap her two kids on Dec. 7 at a Michaels craft store and spoke about the incident in two viral Instagram videos, Argus Courier reported.

Sadie and Eddie Martinez, parents to five children, learned about the accusations after Petaluma police released security camera footage of them.

Were very happy with the news, Sadie Martinez said last week, according to the publication. Its a nice step toward justice. It gives you hope.

In videos posted on Instagram, Sorensen said her children were targets of attempted kidnap and that she was sharing the story in an effort to raise awareness.

Sorensen accused the couple of describing her childrens features and following her into the parking lot after not purchasing anything from the store, KTVU reported. Sorensen said the man looked as if he were trying to grab her stroller, and when she yelled out for help, the couple drove away.

I saw these people, they didnt look necessarily clean cut, Sorensen said. I felt uncomfortable around them, and instead of making them uncomfortable with my discomfort, I chose to remain in my discomfort.

Petaluma police said in December that theyve cleared the Martinezes of wrongdoing after Sorensen reported the incident to authorities. The Martinezes denied the allegations to the police.

To date, the investigation has produced no evidence or witnesses corroborating the account provided by the reporting party. Evidence gathered has served to support the account provided by the couple from the store, police said.

The Petaluma police chief said that an investigation was launched Dec. 17 into whether the incident was falsely reported.

Everybodys guilty of living in a bubble, their own little world. And Im not sure what hers consisted of, but possibly, you know, seeing people that maybe werent dressed the same as her, had different upbringing as her and a darker skin tone, was disturbing or bothersome to her, Sadie Martinez said, according to KGO.
Flatfish got weird fast due to evolutionary cascade

HOUSTON - (May 3, 2021) - Ever look at a flatfish like a flounder or sole, with two eyes on one side of its head, and think, "How did that happen?"

You're in luck. Rice University biologist Kory Evans has the answer.

"Flatfishes are some of the weirdest vertebrates on the planet, and they got weird very, very fast by changing multiple traits at once over a short period of time," said Evans, an assistant professor of biosciences at Rice who specializes in studying the evolution of fish over long time scales.

Of all mammals, reptiles, birds, amphibians and fish, flatfish are easily the most asymmetric. Evans, the corresponding author of a study on flatfish evolution in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, said it helps to keep that in perspective.

"Imagine any other animal," he said. "Like, say you're out walking and you see a squirrel, and one eye is here and the other is there," he said, pointing to two places on the same side of his face. "That squirrel is having a bad time. And there are 800 species of these fish that just do that.

"Perspective helps for understanding how weird these animals actually are."

In evolutionary terms, flatfish asymmetry isn't just a novelty, it's an innovation, and a trait that sets flatfish far apart from even their closest relatives.

Evans said flatfish evolution is particularly interesting because they began as typical, symmetrical fish. They started evolving their current shape, or morphology, about 65 million years ago, and within 3 million years, they'd largely finished.

"We got all that novel colonization of morphospace in 3 million years' time," Evans said. "And look how much time has passed since then. So there's a really brief and short period of time when they evolved all these new forms and all these crazy species."

In their study, Evans and co-authors Olivier Larouche of Rice and Sara-Jane Watson of the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology found that tight integration of genetic traits in flatfish led to a sort of evolutionary cascade.

"Integration is where there's a high degree of correlation between traits, such that if you change one trait, another trait will be changed as well," Evans said. "At macroevolutionary timescales, this gets really interesting, because traits then begin to co-evolve with one another. So if you change one trait, you might end up changing several others."

He said traits can become more integrated if their morphological development is controlled or influenced by shared gene interaction networks.

"If the signaling networks expand to encompass more and more traits, then you can theoretically smear changes all across an entire organism using the same signaling network, and you can change really fast," he said. "It's like pressing one button and flipping the whole animal all at once."

Evans, Larouche and Watson used several methods to piece together the story of flatfish evolution. One was a phylogenetic comparative method that tracks the evolutionary history of traits between and among species. Phylogenetic trees have branches that show where species diverge. "Typically, the tree is built using genetics," Evans said. "So, maybe we'll have a bunch of genomes for all those species. And we can use that to figure out who's more closely related to who. Then, once the tree is built, I can see how traits have changed over time using the branching pattern of the tree as a guide."

The researchers also used a micro-CT scanner in the Evans lab to make 3D scans of the skulls of several flatfish species. The scans were used to make 3D morphometric models that could be compared for differences in shape. But many flatfish species are so dissimilar that it wasn't possible to "tease them apart with just shape or just phylogeny alone," Evans said.

So the researchers created complex mathematical models to track the degree of integration between different regions of the skull across the 65-million-year history of flatfishes and their relatives.

"We found that flatfishes were way more integrated than non-flat fishes, and what this means is that the evolution of asymmetry for flatfishes ended up being an integrated process, basically, involving changes all across the skull," he said. "As the eye migrated, a bunch of other things changed as well. And it became additive. So as the flatfish skull got more and more integrated, more things began to change, per unit time, than a generation before."

As to why flatfish evolved to be asymmetrical, Evans said it wasn't the only path to becoming flat.

"Other fishes that are flat did not do this, like stingrays," he said. "They just went flat like a pancake. But their eyes aren't both on the same side. The remora (aka suckerfish) are also a flat-looking fish, and they didn't do that."

Given evolution is a competition for "survival of the fittest," the evolutionary success of flatfish begs the question: Is asymmetry somehow advantageous?

"I'm not gonna lie," Evans said. "I don't really know if there's an advantage. I think they did it because they could."

###

Additional co-authors include Stacy Farina of Howard University, Maria Laura Habegger of the University of North Florida and Matt Friedman of the University of Michigan.

Research support was provided by the National Science Foundation.

Links and resources:

The DOI of the PNAS paper is: 10.1073/pnas.2101330118

A copy of the paper is available at: https:/ / doi. org/ 10. 1073/ pnas. 2101330118

High-resolution IMAGES are available for download at:

https:/ / news-network. rice. edu/ news/ files/ 2021/ 04/ 0503_FLATFISH-ke81-lg. jpg

CAPTION: Rice University bioscientist Kory Evans with a 3D printed skull of a jack, a close symmetrical relative of flatfish. Evans and colleagues found flatfish rapidly evolved their asymmetric shape thanks to highly integrated networks of genes that controlled the shapes of their skulls. (Photo by Jeff Fitlow/Rice University)

https:/ / www. flickr. com/ photos/ 51647007@N08/ 5188111786

CAPTION: Sash flounder flatfish. (Photo courtesy of SEFSC Pascagoula Laboratory; Collection of Brandi Noble, NOAA/NMFS/SEFSC)

https:/ / news-network. rice. edu/ news/ files/ 2021/ 04/ 0503_FLATFISH-ke52-lg. jpg

CAPTION: Kory Evans preparing to examine a fish with a microscope in his Rice University laboratory. (Photo by Jeff Fitlow/Rice University)

https:/ / news-network. rice. edu/ news/ files/ 2021/ 04/ 0503_FLATFISH-kegp86-lg. jpg

CAPTION: Rice University bioscientists (from left) Kory Evans, Sean Trainor and Jojo West in Evans' laboratory at Rice. (Photo by Jeff Fitlow/Rice University)

This release can be found online at news.rice.edu.

Follow Rice News and Media Relations via Twitter @RiceUNews.

Located on a 300-acre forested campus in Houston, Rice University is consistently ranked among the nation's top 20 universities by U.S. News & World Report. Rice has highly respected schools of Architecture, Business, Continuing Studies, Engineering, Humanities, Music, Natural Sciences and Social Sciences and is home to the Baker Institute for Public Policy. With 3,978 undergraduates and 3,192 graduate students, Rice's undergraduate student-to-faculty ratio is just under 6-to-1. Its residential college system builds close-knit communities and lifelong friendships, just one reason why Rice is ranked No. 1 for lots of race/class interaction and No. 1 for quality of life by the Princeton Review. Rice is also rated as a best value among private universities by Kiplinger's Personal Finance.

This story has been published on: 2021-05-03. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
As you may know, Rosenwald helped finance the construction of 5,357 schools in 15 Southern states, and these schools have been designated as a unit of the national parks system. During my tenure as a state delegate and county executive, I worked closely with leaders of the Freetown community to assist their efforts regarding their Rosenwald School, and the Maryland Historical Trust helped the Freetown School become the first Rosenwald school in Maryland to achieve distinction on the list of the National Register of Historic Places.
The WHO pleaded Monday with the G7 to dig deep and fund the global Covid-19 recovery, warning the crisis cannot be resolved worldwide if they do not step up.

The World Health Organization said the Group of Seven industrial powers had the ability to fund the vaccines, tests and treatments needed to conquer the pandemic -- and knock down the barriers blocking faster production.

WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus urged the G7 to take decisive action at their June 11-13 summit, being hosted by British Prime Minister Boris Johnson in Cornwall, southwest England.

"The G7 countries are the world's economic and political leaders. They are also home to many of the world's vaccine producers," Tedros told a news conference.

"We will only solve the vaccine crisis with the leadership of these countries."

Tedros was backed up by former British prime minister Gordon Brown, who warned the pandemic was becoming a "man-made catastrophe".

The Access to Covid-19 Tools Accelerator programme for finding, developing and distributing coronavirus jabs, tests and therapeutics, is $19 billion short of its $22-billion target this year.

And a further $35 to $45 billion dollars will be needed next year to ensure most adults around the world get immunised.

Brown, who chaired the wider G20 in 2009 as it plotted its way out of the global financial crisis, called for immediate decisive action from world leaders.

"I say to the G7... you have the power and the ability to pay for nearly two-thirds of the costs and secure a historic breakthrough by agreeing an equitable burden-sharing formula," the former finance minister said.

Brown said that based on national income, wealth and benefits from the resumption of trade, the United States would pay 27 percent of the cost; Europe 23 percent; Japan six percent; Britain five percent; and Canada -- plus South Korea and Australia, who will also attend the G7 -- two percent each.

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Brown added that he detected a change in Washington's attitude in recent days towards vaccine production licensing agreements and temporary intellectual property rights waivers, which could expand production capacity.

- Vaccine shortage -

Nearly 1.2 billion Covid-19 vaccine doses have so far been injected worldwide, according to an AFP count.

But just 0.2 percent of them have been administered in the 29 lowest-income countries, home to nine percent of the global population.

And the Covax global vaccine-sharing programme has largely been elbowed out of the market by rich countries striking their own deals with manufacturers.

Its main supplier is the Serum Institute of India (SII), which is producing AstraZeneca vaccines. But increased demand for doses in India itself, where the pandemic is raging, has also interrupted Covax supplies.

Bruce Aylward, the WHO lead on Covax, said the stoppage had so far deprived Covax of some 100 million doses it had been anticipating, and acknowledged it still had no firm date for when SII would resume deliveries.

Meanwhile WHO's chief scientist Soumya Swaminathan warned the additional vaccine doses going to India would not slow the outbreak there immediately.

This "is not going to come down by vaccination", the Indian clinical scientist told reporters, stressing that it takes time for vaccinations to be distributed and then take effect.

Tedros also sounded a reminder that more new Covid-19 cases were reported in the past two weeks than during the first six months of the pandemic, with India and then Brazil making up the lion's share.

- Covax-Moderna deal -

Covax announced Monday it had struck a deal to buy 500 million doses of Moderna's Covid-19 jabs, with 34 million doses of the two-shot vaccine in the final quarter of 2021 and a further 466 million next year.

Under Covax, the cost of vaccines for the 92 poorest participating economies is covered by donors.

Covax has so far shipped more than 49 million Covid-19 vaccine doses worldwide.

Covax has been urging wealthy countries to donate excess doses to cover supply shortages.

Sweden on Monday donated one million paid-for AstraZeneca doses, which notably will help people in Africa to receive their second jab.

The United States has said it will share 60 million AstraZeneca doses, but has not confirmed when, or whether they will flow via Covax.

rjm/nl/tgb
At nearly 65 years, Arthur Biddles stint as a Maryland prison inmate must have been among the longest ever. It ended in February when he died, at age 86, in the Roxbury Correctional Institution in Hagerstown. The Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services confirmed his death but not its cause. (The department has since reported that a Roxbury inmate in his 80s died in February of COVID-19. The state did not identify the inmate.)

I first learned about the duration of Biddles incarceration a couple of years ago, and Ive been curious to know why the state felt a need to keep him locked up for so long. He went to prison two weeks short of his 20th birthday, in 1954.

To give you a sense of how far back this goes, when Biddle went on trial, hanging was still Marylands capital punishment. Convicted killers were escorted at midnight to a high platform in a chamber of the old stone penitentiary in Baltimore, fitted with a noose and dropped through a trapdoor.

But his jury in Cecil County preferred that not happen to Arthur Biddle, a 19-year-old soldier who had just returned from the Korean War. Guilty of Murder in the First Degree without Capital Punishment was the verdict entered on the court docket in Elkton on March 30, 1954.

Five months earlier, while on leave from Fort Dix in New Jersey, Biddle had killed his uncle, Gilbert Cavender, with two blasts from a shotgun. It was the violent conclusion of a dispute over property in Elkton. Cavender and his wife had purchased the Main Street house that belonged to Biddles late grandmother, Anna Clay. Biddle had been raised in the house, and he claimed his grandmother had intended to leave it to him. But Anna Clay had died in 1949 without a will. The Elkton Bank handled her estate and sold the house to the Cavenders.

After shooting his uncle, Biddle walked to the old county jail and surrendered.

At trial, the issue was not his guilt but his state of mind. The defense claimed Biddle was not in control of his mental faculties at the time of the crime. A state psychiatrist, Dr. Jacob Morgenstern, said the soldier had obsessed about his uncles purchase of the house and suffered from compulsion neurosis.

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A Cecil County judge, Floyd J. Kintner, sentenced Biddle to life in prison.

These facts were culled from newspaper accounts and from the 67-year-old court docket. I had never heard of Arthur Biddle until a couple of years ago when a researcher gave me a list of elderly inmates in Maryland prisons. At 85, Biddle was the second oldest on the list and the longest in custody.

When I first saw those numbers, I wondered why Biddle was still in prison, particularly because he had committed his only crime at a young age and because he had been sentenced with the possibility of one day being paroled.

Biddles death prompted me to push for answers.

As it turns out, his long stretch was not unbroken.

In fact, says Mark Vernarelli, spokesman for the corrections department, Mr. Biddle was once paroled, committed new crimes and escaped twice.

According to records, Biddle earned parole in 1974, after 20 years in prison. But two years later he pleaded guilty to malicious destruction of property in Baltimore and that constituted a violation of the conditions of his release. He went back to prison to serve out his life sentence.

In 1977, he and another prisoner walked away from a minimum security prison camp on the Eastern Shore. Biddle and his fellow traveler told a Queen Annes County judge that they intended to buy booze from a local liquor store and bring it back to the prison. The judge was unimpressed with their stated intentions and found the men guilty of escape.

In 1980, Biddle again walked away from the camp, but this time he traveled to New York City and managed to find a job in a hotel. After police grabbed him and returned him to the Eastern Shore, he claimed in court to have fled camp because he felt threatened by inmates who wanted him to sell drugs. An account in The Star-Democrat described Biddle, who was then 46, as a balding, long-haired convict.

Biddle told Judge Donaldson C. Cole that he had become a Christian Science practitioner while in prison and hoped for early release to care for his mother. I realize now that taking a human life, God didnt mean man to do this, Biddle said.

His two escapes resulted in another nine years added to Biddles sentence. His mother died in 1981.

According to Vernarelli, Biddle was due for another parole hearing in 1986, but postponed it and never asked for another. That suggests that he was resigned to prison life and had neither ambition nor optimism for release.

About a year and a half ago, I wrote to Biddle to see if he would speak with me during a prison visit. I did not hear back. Attempts to reach two people believed to be his kin have been unsuccessful.

I wondered in this column why the state would keep Arthur Biddle in prison into his 80s. Now we know. Biddles own actions and choices, early in life and in middle age, deprived him of the freedom and second chance that many other lifers work earnestly toward while serving time.

Would intense intervention, starting at 20, have better prepared him for release at 40? I dont know, but I remain a believer in that. Prisons are for punishment. But, since they operate at taxpayer expense, we have a right to insist on more  that they produce better outcomes, better people. Those who do horrible things when theyre young should get a real shot at a second life before they grow too old, sick and despairing to care.

___
Johnson County prosecutors have charged a Des Moines man in the fatal shooting of a 70-year-old homicide victim found Saturday in Prairie Village.

Michael Balance, 58, was charged with premeditated first-degree murder in the killing of John Hoffman, the Johnson County District Attorneys Office said Monday.

Officers were dispatched to a life-threatening medical call about 6:10 p.m. Saturday at an apartment complex in the 3700 block of West 75th Street, according to the Prairie Village Police Department.

There, officers found Hoffman dead. He had been shot multiple times, police said.

Balances bond was set at $1 million, the district attorneys office said.

Multiple metro area police agencies cooperated in the investigation.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) on Monday signed an executive order to end all local emergency orders relating to COVID-19, effectively halting enforcement of restrictions across the state, the Miami Herald reports.

Why it matters: DeSantis argued that continuing to mandate restrictions would undermine confidence in the vaccines, which he stressed are effective and have been administered to much of the state's elderly population.

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The big picture: New coronavirus infections are falling across most of the country and 38% of the adult U.S. population is fully vaccinated, though health experts caution that variants could still threaten to reverse the country's progress.

Florida, which became one of the world's epicenters for the virus in July, has fully vaccinated 37.3% of its population.

About one in 609 residents in the state have died from the virus, compared to a national rate closer to one in 569 people, per the Orlando Sentinel.

What they're saying: DeSantis accused governors of seizing power during the pandemic through executive orders meant to enforce social distancing and stay-at-home orders.

"Now in the state of Florida, we worked very hard, particularly since this summer, to jettison those types of policies and we focused on lifting people up. We wanted people going back to work, we wanted our kids to be in school, we thought that that was very important," he said.

The other side: Rick Kriseman, the mayor of St. Petersburg, tweeted, "To be clear, cities like St. Pete, Tampa, Orlando, Miami and Miami Beach, saved Florida and the governor's behind throughout this pandemic. Can you imagine if each city had been led by Ron DeSantis? How many lives would have been lost? What would our economy look like today?"

Go deeper: Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis bans coronavirus "vaccine passports"

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The Biden administration is considering working with outside firms to surveil extremist language by Americans online, anonymous sources told CNN on Monday.

A plan being discussed by Department of Homeland Security officials would allow the agency to use outside firms to access private messaging apps used by extremist domestic groups. DHS is generally limited in its ability to monitor Americans online and is banned from using false identities to infiltrate online groups, however the agency reportedly believes that contracting with outside firms could present a workaround solution.

Because the FBI cannot legally monitor Americans without a warrant, DHS partnerships with outside firms could also provide the FBI with some intelligence, according to CNN.

We are exploring with our lawyers, civil rights, civil liberties and privacy colleagues, how we can make use of outside expertise, a DHS official told the network.

The initiative comes as law enforcement agencies ramp up scrutiny of extremist groups with members present at the Capitol riot on January 6, including the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers. President Biden said that white supremacists currently represent most lethal terrorist threat to the U.S. during his address to Congress last week.

However, the plan has produced skepticism among observers of DHS handling of the riots in Portland, Ore., in summer 2020. Federal agents were dispatched to assist local police in combatting anarchists in the city, which saw over 120 consecutive days of riots.

Theres a tension between wanting to empower [DHSs intelligence office] to do this kind of work around domestic terrorism on the one hand and then on the other hand the misuse of its capabilities during the summer of 2020, a Senate aide told CNN.

A DHS intelligence agency compiled reports on two journalists during the riots, summarizing tweets from the journalists while noting that they published leaked DHS documents, the Washington Post reported in July 2020. Then-acting DHS secretary Chad Wolf ordered the agency to stop collecting information on journalists following the Posts report.

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In no way does the Acting Secretary condone this practice and he has immediately ordered an inquiry into the matter, a DHS spokesman said at the time. The Acting Secretary is committed to ensuring that all DHS personnel uphold the principles of professionalism, impartiality and respect for civil rights and civil liberties, particularly as it relates to the exercise of First Amendment rights.

More from National Review
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab (left) meets US Secretary of State Antony Blinken for bilateral talks at Carlton Gardens in London - PA

Issues related to Iran are set to feature in talks later Monday between US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and his host in London, British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab.

The bilateral talks come a day before the first face-to-face discussions in two years of foreign and development ministers from the Group of Seven leading industrial nations and other invited representatives. The UK holds this year's presidency of the G-7.

Mr Blinken's visit to London, his first since being appointed by President Joe Biden, comes amid mounting speculation of a prisoner exchange deal with Iran.

Prisoner exchanges are not uncommon and were a feature of the 2015 nuclear accord between Iran and leading powers. Mr Biden has indicated that he is looking to restart nuclear talks with Tehran after his predecessor, Donald Trump, pulled the US out of the agreement.

The pair are expected to discuss Iran - Jonathan Buckmaster/Daily Express/PA Wire

In Britain, there is particular interest in the wellbeing of British-Iranian woman Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, who was last week sentenced to an additional year in prison on charges of spreading "propaganda against the system."

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said his government is doing what it can amid reports in Iran that Britain would pay a 400 million-pound debt to secure Mrs Zaghari-Ratcliffe's release.

"We of course make sure that we do everything we can to look after the interests of Nazanin and all the very difficult dual national cases we have in Tehran," he said.

Earlier Monday, Mr Blinken held bilateral talks with Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi on an array of subjects including the coronavirus pandemic and the climate crisis, as well as raising concerns over North Korea's nuclear and ballistic missile programs.

On Tuesday, the full G-7 - Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the UK and the US - will meet along with others, including representatives from other countries, including Australia, India and South Africa.

Ahead of the gathering, German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas warned that "authoritarian states" around the world are "trying to play us against each other" and that breaches of international law have become commonplace.

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"It is important that we hold our values of democracy, state of law, human rights and a global order based on rules against them, united and credibly," he said.

Before the meeting, Britain's Foreign Office said the G-7 ministers will invest $15 billion in development finance over the next two years to help women in developing countries access jobs, build resilient businesses and recover from the coronavirus pandemic.

They are also expected to sign up to new targets to get 40 million more girls into school, and 20 million more girls reading by the age of 10 in poorer nations by 2026.
The Democratic Republic of Congo's presidency on Monday ordered military and police officers to take over civil authorities in two regions that have been declared under a "state of siege".

North-Kivu and Ituri -- both eastern provinces where dozens of armed groups operate and civilians have been subject to horrifying massacres -- were declared under siege on Friday.

Under the DRC's constitution, the president can declare a state of either siege or emergency "if severe circumstances immediately threaten the independence or integrity of the national territory, or if they interrupt the regular functioning of institutions".

In an address broadcast on public television on Monday, President Felix Tshisekedi said he had heard "the cries of distress of our population, and felt the pain that our mothers, sisters and daughters are suffering in these provinces ravaged by barbarity".

His spokesman Tharsice Kasongo Mwema confirmed that the two provinces would be declared under siege for 30 days starting on Thursday, May 6.

"To respond to the situation during the state of siege, the provincial governments of Ituri and North Kivu, and the entities of these provinces, will be replaced by offices of the armed forces of the DRC or the national police," he said.

"The action of the civil jurisdictions will be substituted by those of military jurisdictions" until "the reestablishment of the peace", he added.

The announcement of a state of siege has been welcomed by North-Kivu governor Carly Kasivita, who said he had repeatedly urged a "national mobilisation" to deal with attacks in the province's Beni region.

However, some observers have expressed alarm at the idea of replacing civil authorities with military ones, warning it could lead to abuses of power.

Mineral-rich North and South-Kivu, which lie along the DRC's eastern borders with Uganda, Rwanda and Burundi, descended into violence during the country's two wars between 1996 and 2003, and have never regained stability.

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Ituri, further to the north, has also been rocked by violence since late 2017 after 15 years of relative calm.

The Kivu Security Tracker, a monitoring group, estimates that 122 different armed groups of varying sizes are active in the eastern DRC.

The Allied Democratic Forces, a group of Ugandan Islamist fighters based in eastern DRC since 1995, are blamed for many of the massacres.

The ADF -- which the US brands a "terrorist" organisation" affiliated to Islamic State group -- have been accused of murdering more than 1,000 civilians since November 2019 in Beni alone.

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Democratic U.S. Sens. Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth on Monday asked for federal assistance to ensure Illinois veterans homes have proper infectious disease planning and protocols in place following the release of a stinging report detailing large-scale mismanagement at the LaSalle Veterans Home, where 36 residents died of COVID-19.

In a letter to U.S. Veterans Affairs Secretary Denis McDonough, the two Illinois senators noted the federal VA was part of on-site inspections with state public health officials at the LaSalle Home that occurred more than 10 days after the outbreak was discovered on Nov. 1 and detailed a full-time staffer to provide technical assistance to the state.

We urge the VA to return to Illinois once again to ensure that (the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs) has the appropriate protocols in place, as well as training and support it needs in order to continue to protect Illinois veterans from COVID-19 or any future infectious disease outbreaks, the senators wrote.

The letter comes just days after a 50-page report from the Illinois Department of Human Services Office of the Inspector General and the law firm of Armstrong Teasdale detailed systemic mismanagement from the top of the states veterans agency down to the LaSalle home, saying it created an inefficient, reactive and chaotic response to controlling the virus.

The report said then-state VA Director Linda Chapa LaVia, a former state lawmaker from Aurora, abdicated her responsibilities, leaving things to a nonmedical chief of staff who preferred to let each home manage itself, issued rules contradictory to health guidelines and failed to seek outside help as the outbreak grew.

Chapa LaVia resigned as state VA director in January and did not agree to be interviewed for the report. Her chief of staff, Anthony Kolbeck, submitted his resignation last month.

Pritzker last week acknowledged a failure of leadership in naming Chapa LaVia to the post, telling reporters on Friday, I have to admit that if I knew then what I know now, I would not have hired her.

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Durbin and Duckworth credited the first-term Democratic governor for steps he took in the outbreaks aftermath, including hiring a new state veterans affairs secretary, but made it clear they felt it wasnt enough.

While we recognize that Gov. Pritzker has taken a number of proactive steps  including personnel changes to replace (Chapa LaVia) and oversight efforts such as requiring this OIG investigation  we remain worried about IDVAs future preparedness against both the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and other infectious disease outbreaks, the senators wrote.

Countless families have entrusted the care of their loved ones  veterans who have served and scarified for this country with honor, and deserve the highest standards  to the State of Illinois, the senators said. We urge the VA to help ensure that our state is up to the task in the face of challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

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The senators also noted that veterans homes at Manteno and Quincy also had fatal outbreaks, though with fewer deaths. They also said the nature of COVID-19 at long-term congregate care facilities with an elderly population was well known.

While the death tolls were smaller at these two facilities, the urgency to take corrective action remains the same, Durbin and Duckworth wrote.

We understand that the risks associated with the deadly coronavirus are only increased in long-term care facilities. However, as the (office of inspector general) report indicates, the proper implementation and execution of infectious disease protocols can help control outbreaks, they said.

The federal Veterans Affairs agency had no immediate response to the Illinois senators request.

Durbin is the states senior senator and a member of the Senates Democratic leadership. Duckworth, an Iraq War veteran, formerly headed the states veterans affairs agency under Rod Blagojevich and was an assistant U.S. Veterans Affairs secretary in President Barack Obamas administration before becoming a congresswoman and then U.S. senator.

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The Environmental Protection Agency Monday morning floated draft regulations to sharply phase down planet-warming gases used in air conditioning and refrigeration over the next 15 years.

Why it matters: The plan is designed to cut production and importation of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), which are highly potent greenhouse gases, by 85% by 2036.

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EPA said that under the proposal, the phase-down would prevent the equivalent of 187 million metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in 2036 alone.

That's "roughly equal" to the annual emissions from one out of seven vehicles registered in the U.S., according to EPA.

Background: The rule stems from wide-ranging bipartisan legislation enacted in late 2020.

The HFC phase-down has support among both powerful industry groups and the environmental movement.

The rule will effectively meet U.S. obligations under a 2016 addition to the Montreal Protocol agreed to in Kigali, Rwanda, even though the U.S. has not formally ratified the amendment.

That 1987 treaty successfully curbed the use of substances that deplete the ozone layer, but one side effect was that it boosted deployment of HFCs.

By the numbers: EPA estimates that implementing the regulation will provide $283.9 billion in cumulative benefits from 2022 through 2050.

The agency said that a global phase-down is "expected to avoid up to 0.5 C of global warming by 2100."

That's a lot if it indeed happens. Earth has already warmed more than 1C above preindustrial levels, and the most ambitious goal of the Paris climate agreement is to hold warming to 1.5C.

Go deeper: E.P.A. to Announce Sharp Limits on Powerful Greenhouse Gases (New York Times)

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(Bloomberg) -- Epic Games Inc. Chief Executive Officer Tim Sweeney sought moral high ground on the first day of a trial against Apple Inc., saying he sued the worlds most valuable company not to boost sales of his Fortnite game but to stand up for developers cheated out of commissions by the App Store.

Apple claims in court filings that Epic set up a public relations campaign last year to make Apple look like a bad guy to revive flagging interest in Fortnite.

Sweeney, the first witness to take the stand in federal court in Oakland, California, said the lawsuit accusing the App Store of behaving like a monopoly while taking as much as a 30% cut from developers had nothing to do with Fortnite usage. The lawsuit is entirely about Apples practices, Sweeney said when questioned by Epics attorney.

Later, the CEO held his ground when he was grilled on cross-examination about whether the lawsuit was intended to generate excitement around Fortnite.

Sweeney said he waited to sue Apple until last year because it took him time to realize the negative impact of App Store policies. It got to the point when Apple was making more profit from a developers app in the App Store than the developer was making himself.

Apple is facing a backlash from global regulators and some app developers who say its standard App Store fee of 30% and others policies are unfair and designed to benefit the iPhone makers own services. The fight with Epic blew up in August when the game maker told customers it would begin offering a discounted direct purchase plan for items in Fortnite, and Apple then removed the game app, cutting off access for more than a billion iPhone and iPad customers.

Epics 2020 revenue totaled $5.1 billion, Sweeney said. When asked by Epics attorney how important Apples iOS is to his company, he said it was vital.

U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers asked Sweeney if he knew Epic was violating its App Store contract when it released a hotfix update to open up its discounted direct-payment option in Fortnite. Epic knew its move was in direct violation of its contractual obligations with Apple, Sweeney said. He said he did so to show the world exactly what the ramifications of Apples policies were.

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On cross examination, Apples attorney challenged Sweeney over why he isnt complaining about other gaming platforms, including Sony Corp., that also charge 30% commissions.

Sweeney testified that hes at odds with Apples practice of only giving users the option to make app purchases through its App Store and blocking them from downloading other app marketplaces on iOS mobile devices.

(Updates with Sweeneys cross-examination testimony)

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The high court on Monday turned away a challenge to the ban, which took effect in October 2018. A lower court had dismissed the challenge at an early stage and that decision had been upheld by an appeals court. As is typical, the court didn't comment in declining to take the case.
As we enter May, the Florida legislative session is over. Students begin another round of exams, if they want. Things are winding down. Whats left to do but continue arguing about masks? Read on for the latest on that story and more Florida education news.

Be safe. With tempers flaring over mask policy, the Pasco County School Board is adding security to its meetings.

Many districts are maintaining their mask mandates to the end of the semester. Santa Rosa Countys superintendent is recommending cutting the requirement short, WEAR reports.  The Manatee County School Board prepared to have its mask rule end on June 1, unless conditions worsen, the Bradenton Herald reports.

Doing away with masks might be premature, though, one expert says. USF pediatrics professor Patricia Emmanuel says theyre an important mitigation measure until more children can be vaccinated, WUSF reports.

More coronavirus concerns

The Miami private school that wont hire people who get the coronavirus vaccination didnt surprise those in the know. Its a cult, some parents and former employees told the Miami Herald. More from the NY Times.

Most schools want their employees  and eligible students  to get vaccinated. The Leon County school district launched a campaign encouraging staff to do so, the Tallahassee Democrat reports.  The Broward County school district will begin providing vaccinations for students and staff at schools, the Sun-Sentinel reports.  More than 1,500 people came out for inoculations offered at three Orange County schools, WKMG reports.

Graduation day is almost here. Acquiescing to pressure, the Hillsborough and Manatee school districts decided to give graduates more tickets for guests, WTSP reports.  Palm Beach County seniors said theyre excited to get in-person graduations, WPTV reports.

School news

Broward County residents are assessing the tenure of superintendent Robert Runcie as he prepares to resign. Its filled with accomplishments and exaggerations, the Sun-Sentinel reports.  The districts general counsel, also resigning, did not enter a plea in her court case and filed a motion to dismiss, the Miami Herald reports.

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Duval County schools are polling residents for views on renaming schools. Community activists say more young people need to join the discussion, WTLV reports.

A court will decide whether a Duval County teacher had the right to display a Black Lives Matter flag in her classroom. Some experts suggested the teacher has a tough legal case to prove, WJCT reports.

Thats a wrap. An 88-year-old Volusia County substitute teacher retires after 20 years in classrooms, the Daytona Beach News-Journal reports.

Polk County voters approved a sales tax to pay for needed school capital projects. The district has 36 projects under way as a result, the Ledger reports.

St. Johns County students and parents have been protesting the district dress code as sexist. Some experts say they have a point, the St. Augustine Record reports.

Schools are still reacting to the 2018 Parkland shooting. The Citrus County School Board is near adding a mandated panic alarm system on its campuses, the Citrus County Chronicle reports.

Tallahassee action

And they were worried about cuts. Florida lawmakers adopted a record $101.5 billion budget, with help from federal stimulus funds.

Lawmakers delayed a plan to let college athletes benefit financially from the use of their name and likeness. After realizing their mistake, they abruptly reversed course in the final moments of the 2021 session.

Gov. Ron DeSantis promised legislation to protect college and university students from punishment for violating social distancing rules. That bill never appeared, Fresh Take Florida reports.

Another one also bit the dust. A Senate proposal to alter Bright Future scholarship amounts died in committee, Florida Today reports.

Before you go ... Just when you thought it couldnt get better, theres a new directors cut of the 2004 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame performance of While My Guitar Gently Weeps. With more Prince!
Photo Illustration by The Daily Beast/Getty

Its a scenario that has become all too familiar for media watchers: Fox News star Tucker Carlson is once again under fire for his offensive and inflammatory comments, sparking widespread backlash and calls for advertisers to drop his show and for Fox to fire him.

And the expected outcome is also all too familiar, as current and former Fox News staffers told The Daily Beast this week: The network does not care and nothing will happen to Carlson.

Earlier last week, the far-right, proudly nationalist host once again drove an entire news cycle with his trollish remarks, this time by calling on his millions of viewers to publicly harass people wearing masks outside and to call child protective services on parents of mask-wearing kids. Naturally, due to the potentially violent consequences of his commentary, the clip immediately went viral on social media and the hashtag #TuckerMustGo began trending on Twitter.

Yet, as numerous Fox News staffers, insiders and former employees pointed out to The Daily Beast, Tucker is invincible and untouchable. The top-rated primetime host will never suffer any repercussions for his actions and comments, these sources emphasized. Fox News declined to comment on this story.

Hes a good example of how much you can get away with at Fox if your ratings are high, one current network staffer told The Daily Beast. Aside from that, he just perpetuates the rights catastrophe platform. They cannot win with their supposed limited government, fiscal conservatism, because not even they really believe in it. So all they do is fear monger.

To this point, Carlson has seemingly delighted in his ability to see just how far he can push the envelope, bouncing from one controversy to the next only to see his status and influence grow at Fox News and among the right-wing mediaverse at large.

Beginning with his December 2018 declaration that immigration makes America poorer and dirtier, Carlson has seen nearly all major advertisers bail from his show, leaving the program to essentially rely on Fox News promos and MyPillow commercials.

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Carlson has since courted further controversy and weathered calls for his ouster over his insistence that white supremacy is a hoax, warning his audience that the Black Lives Matter mob will come for you, and the revelation that his shows head writer, who resigned, was posting openly racist and sexist commentary online for years.

White Supremacy Has Its Coming Out Party, and Tucker Carlson Is There

In fact, just before this latest scandal over masks, the Anti-Defamation League had called on Carlson to be fired and for his remaining advertisers to drop the Fox host after he touted and endorsed the white-supremacist Great Replacement theory. Fox Corp CEO Lachlan Murdoch, however, publicly stood by his biggest star, insisting that Carlsons commentary somehow simultaneously rejected the theorywhich has been cited by several racist mass killers in recent yearswhile reframing the racist conspiracy theory as merely a voting rights question.

Hes untouchable. He knows it, his staff knows it, everyone knows it, one Fox News insider said of Carlsons standing with Fox management.

The Murdochs love him, one former Fox News personality said. Like them, he is a rich, prep school kid born with a silver spoon who traffics in populism while living in an expensive ivory tower and never meeting in real life the people he gins up for ratings.

Former Fox News host Juliet Huddy, who reached a settlement agreement with the network after accusing ex-Fox star Bill OReilly of sexual harassment, was blunt in her assessment of the situation.

Fox cares nothing about integrity, character, decency, she said, specifically citing OReilly as an example of the networks high tolerance for controversy from its ratings leaders.

Fox News Staff Erupts Over Network Racism: Bosses Created a White Supremacist Cell

Hes the new Bill OReilly, another ex-Fox News employee stated. The dirty little secret is that FNC doesnt care about losing advertisers. They make their money via cable conglomerates that pay them much money so that dumb fucks who worship FNC can continue being told what, in their heart of hearts, they want to believe. And thats a lot of people.

Former Fox News correspondent Carl Cameron, who left the network in 2017 over partisan misinformation after more than 20 years at the network, agreed that nothing would happen to Carlson so long as he keeps bringing in viewers.

Ratings & revenue rule, Cameron said in an interview with The Daily Beast, Most media give people what they want to hear, thats not news. It does however draw attention and clicking, watching and listening is monetizable. Lawsuits and public outcries are not abating so ultimately benching anyone else is probably up to the Murdochs. So far Tuckers ratings are strong, hes bringing in revenue.

While much has been made about the ad boycotts targeting Carlsons show, Fox News as a whole continues to rake in money not only via advertising revenue but due to the carriage fees it charges cable and satellite providers. Currently, the network brings in $1.8 billion a year just from being included in cable television bundle packages.

But just because there is resignation within the Fox universe that Carlson can get away with anything, it doesnt mean that those inside the network arent disgruntled and frustrated with Carlsons toxic far-right persona.

Its so stupid, a Fox News employee said. Im at a point where I cant even be outraged anymore for the sake of my mental health. Hes just a trash human being.

Noting that Carlson is invincible, another current staffer sighed that unless he physically assaults someone at work or there are cases of sexual assault that Fox deems credible, he wont go anywhere.

If Tucker left, his fans would follow him wherever he went and would turn Fox off for scorning their leader, the person added. If Trump is the most dangerous person in the country, Tucker is a close second behind him.

Still, while acknowledging Carlson can pretty much say or do whatever he wants, critics maintain a sense of concern and even dread that he could inspire his millions of loyal viewers to take him literally and seriously.

People can have opinions but when they pretend to be a Dr. like #TuckerCarlson & his kids not wearing masks rhetoric, it's downright dangerous. People unfortunately listen to him like he actually knows what he's talking about, former Fox News anchor Gretchen Carlson, who settled with Fox News in 2016 over sexual harassment allegations against ex-CEO Roger Ailes, tweeted this week.

He is not only incredibly out of touch, but this is dangerous on so many levels, a Fox News insider said, adding: We already know people are prone to believe liesthe Capitol riot and Qso for someone with his platform, its highly irresponsible to encourage something like calling the police.



Diana Falzone was an on-camera and digital reporter for FoxNews.com from 2012 to 2018. In May 2017, she filed a gender discrimination and disability lawsuit against the network and settled, and left the company in March 2018.

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BERLIN (Reuters) - German police have uncovered one of the world's largest underground websites for child pornography with more than 400,000 users and arrested four people connected to the platform, prosecutors said on Monday.

The "BOYSTOWN" platform has existed since at least June 2019 and was only accessible via the so-called Darknet, the Frankfurt public prosecutor's office and the BKA Federal Police said in a statement.

The website has more than 400,000 users and was used for the worldwide exchange of child pornography. It enabled members to retrieve child pornography content and exchange footage with each other in chat areas as well as via voice channels.

"Among the images and video recordings shared were also recordings of the most severe sexual abuse of young children," prosecutors said.

Police arrested three main suspects, who are accused of operating and maintaining the platform, during raids on seven properties in mid-April.

The suspects are a 40-year-old man living in Paderborn in western Germany, a 49-year-old man from the Munich area and a 58-year-old man from northern Germany who has been living in South America for several years, police said.

A fourth man, a 64-year-old from Hamburg, has also been arrested on suspicion of having registered as a member of the platform in July 2019 and having posted over 3,500 contributions on the site, making him one of the most active users.

Following the raids, the BOYSTOWN platform has been taken down, police said.

(Reporting by Caroline Copley; Editing by Giles Elgood)
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla.  A 45-foot sport fishing boat with 29 Haitian immigrants came ashore early Monday morning in Delray Beach, according to the U.S. Border Patrol.

The boat, which made a distress call before making landfall around 5 a.m., is suspected of being part of a maritime smuggling event, the Border Patrol said.

Two of those on board were hospitalized. One was treated and released to the Border Patrol. The other was hospitalized with nonlife-threatening issues, the agency said.

The remaining Haitian migrants were brought to the Border Patrol station in West Palm Beach for questioning.

The suspected smugglers were not on the boat, and their whereabouts were not known as of Monday afternoon.

The Border Patrol said it, along with the Department of Homeland Security, will seek prosecution against any smugglers that are located.


Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton told CNN Sunday the U.S. has to focus on "two huge consequences" following President Biden's decision to withdraw American troops from Afghanistan.

Driving the news: Axios reported Friday that Clinton and former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice expressed concern to the House Foreign Affairs Committee over the move. When CNN's Fareed Zakaria asked Clinton what she thought of the decision, she said: "Well, it's been made, and I know it is a very difficult decision."

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What else she's saying: The first major consequence was "the potential collapse of the Afghan government and a takeover of Afghanistan by the Taliban," Clinton said.

"Probably with a resumption of civil war in certain parts of the country, but a largely Taliban-run government at some point in the not-too-distant future," she added.

Clinton said it's important to protect the "many thousands of Afghans" who worked with the U.S. and NATO, "who stood up and spoke out for womens rights and human rights." She expressed hopes a visa program could be set up for them in the U.S.

"There will also be, I fear, a huge refugee outflow," she said. "And of course, the second big set of problems revolves around a resumption of activities by global terrorist groups, most particularly Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State."

The bottom line: "It's one thing to pull out troops that have been supporting security in Afghanistan, supporting the Afghan military, leaving it pretty much to fend for itself, but we cant afford to walk away from the consequences of that decision," Clinton said.

The Biden administration did not immediately respond to Axios' request for comment.

Go deeper: Biden administration's hard exit from Afghanistan

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Hong Kong's Exchange Fund, the war chest used to defend the local currency from attacks by short-sellers, earned HK$11.6 billion (US$1.5 billion) from its investments in the first quarter as it benefited from a global rally in stock markets, according to the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA).

The gain was a turnaround from a record quarterly loss of HK$112 billion in the prior-year period, as equity markets around the world slumped last year against the backdrop of the coronavirus pandemic.

The fund's first-quarter returns this year, however, significantly trailed its gains throughout the remainder of 2020 as it suffered a HK$16 billion loss on its bond investments in the first three months of 2021. In particular, the fund's results were sharply lower than the HK$145 billion earned in last year's fourth quarter, the best quarterly performance on record.

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The preliminary results, revealed at a quarterly meeting with lawmakers at Hong Kong's Legislative Council, were not audited and did not include financial results for the fund's long-term "other investments". Those figures are expected to be available later.

Equities markets advanced broadly in the first quarter, supported by the roll-out of Covid-19 vaccines globally and a US$1.9 trillion fiscal stimulus package signed into law by US President Joe Biden in March. The Biden administration also proposed an additional package of US$2 trillion in infrastructure spending to help stimulate the US economy.

In the first quarter, Hong Kong's benchmark Hang Seng Index rose 4.2 per cent, compared with a drop of 16 per cent in the first three months of 2020. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 7.8 per cent in the first quarter, a sharp contrast to the 23 per cent drop a year earlier and its worst quarterly loss since 1987.

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On Monday, Eddie Yue Wai-man, the HKMA's CEO, warned the sharp rebound in the US economy could spark inflation concerns and lead to a change in monetary policy, which could create "significant volatility in the financial markets and lead to an outflow of funds from Asia".

"Having said that, we have a strong financial system that is ... resilient," Yue said. "We are confident that the linked-exchange rate system will continue to operate efficiently."

Yue also expressed concern about the uptake of vaccinations in Hong Kong and how that could affect the city's position as an international financial hub. Only about 10 per cent of the city's 7.5 million people have been vaccinated, well below financial hubs in the US, the United Kingdom and Singapore, he said.

The Hong Kong Monetary Authority invests the Exchange Fund's assets in stocks, bonds and overseas property. Photo: Shutterstock alt=The Hong Kong Monetary Authority invests the Exchange Fund's assets in stocks, bonds and overseas property. Photo: Shutterstock

"I'm worried if we don't push up our vaccination rate our competitiveness will be affected," Yue said.

The Exchange Fund recorded a gain of HK$7.6 billion on its investments in Hong Kong stocks in the first quarter, compared with a loss of HK$28.4 billion a year earlier. The fund reported investment gains of HK$20.8 billion on Hong Kong equities in the first quarter of 2019.

It earned HK$18.8 billion from its overseas stock investments in the first three months of this year, compared with a loss of HK$83.1 billion a year earlier and a gain of HK$49.9 billion during the corresponding quarter in 2019.

The fund also reported a gain from foreign-exchange valuation changes on its assets of HK$12 billion in the first quarter, compared with a loss of HK$29 billion in the first three months of 2020 and a gain of HK$13.5 billion during the same quarter in 2019.

The fund reported a loss of HK$16 billion on its bond investments in the first quarter, compared with gains on its bond investments of HK$54.4 billion in the year-ago period and a HK$36.7 billion increase in the first quarter of 2019.

Yue said the fund emphasises liquidity, so it mostly holds one-year bonds. He said the fund's portfolio has some flexibility in what kinds of bonds it holds, so it would make some adjustments based on "prevailing market conditions".

On Monday, HKMA officials did not report results on its long-term "other investments". It suffered a loss of HK$25.9 billion in that category of investments in the first quarter of 2020, compared with a gain of HK$12.5 billion in the same period in 2019.

Hong Kong's government set up the Exchange Fund in 1935 to back the issuance of banknotes. Since the HKMA was established in 1993, it has invested the fund's money in stocks, bonds and overseas property.

The Exchange Fund, which stood at HK$4.54 trillion as of the end of March, protects the Hong Kong dollar, which is pegged to the US dollar. The HKMA intervened in the market 85 times in 2020, selling HK$383.5 billion to keep the local currency within its trading band of HK$7.75 to HK$7.85 per US dollar.

The city's treasury places its fiscal reserves with the Exchange Fund and earns a share of any profit from its investments. The government received HK$9.2 billion from the Exchange Fund in the first quarter, after receiving HK$32.6 billion for all of 2020.

A strong return on both stocks and bonds last year helped the Exchange Fund report a gain of HK$235.8 billion last year as a whole, compared with a record full-year high of HK$262.2 billion in 2019.

This article originally appeared in the South China Morning Post (SCMP), the most authoritative voice reporting on China and Asia for more than a century. For more SCMP stories, please explore the SCMP app or visit the SCMP's Facebook and Twitter pages. Copyright  2021 South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.

Copyright (c) 2021. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.
Infamous hacktivist Christopher Doyon (Commander X) largely went unnoticed living on the streets of Toronto until novelist Ian Thornton discovered his true identity and that he was on the run from the FBI, which is now documented in the film The Face of Anonymous, available to stream as part of the 2021 Hot Docs festival.

"There was an interesting character reading a thick book. I recently had published my first novel and it was a nice contrast between what I saw with him and the usual cardboard signs asking for weed on Queen Street," Thornton told Yahoo Canada.

"The day after the Brexit vote [I] saw him on the street and he was hopping around, he was quite energetic... He said it was great news because it was good news for Julian and I wanted to know who Julian was, he said, well, Julian Assange and I'm going to tell you something now that is going to blow your mind, I'm his friend and I'm a cyber warlord on the run from the FBI."

That story may seem incredibly far-fetched for most, but after Thornton went to his computer to corroborate the story, he realized he was in fact developing a friendship with the Anonymous-affiliated hacktivist.

That's how The Face of Anonymous started, documenting the fascinating life of Commander X, from someone who had a keen interest in computers and technology, and a Dead Head who sold LSD at Grateful Dead concerts. To someone who became the most outspoken figure in the Anonymous movement who has now been granted asylum in Mexico.

"I think the important thing is to look at how the movement changed protests across the board and how that protest has become more and more global," Commander X said in an interview with Yahoo Canada.

Commander X was part of a cyber attack on Santa Cruz County computers, Operation Tunisia and Operation Egypt that targeted government sites, and taking down the websites of PayPal, Mastercard, and VISA when they blocked individuals from using their services to support Wikileaks.

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The Guy Fawkes mask is an iconic symbol of the Anonymous movement, recognized all over the world. The film explores the origin story of Anonymous and gives us the true reason of why this mask was chosen.

Commander X persona 'took on a life of its own'

Not everyone in The Face of Anonymous is seemingly a fan of Commander X, particularly Barrett Brown, the founder of the crowdsourced chatroom Project PM who was sent in prison in 2015 for charges relating to the 2011 Stratfor hack, and Gregg Housh, who played a key role in the 2008 Anonymous protest campaign against the Church of Scientology. Housh was incarcerated for operating software pirating rings.

Throughout the documentary, Brown and Housh regularly say they don't feel like Commander X deserved as much attention as he got, exaggerated his involvement in the hacktivist group, risked people's lives by being so public and ultimately, "making the message look bad."

Commander X maintains that his persona "took on a life of its own" and his publicity was initially in an effort to save someone who was falsely identified as the person behind the moniker.

"The media seemed to really like the character of Command X," he said. "I was reachable, I was approachable, I said the things they wanted to hear, I guess, at the time especially, it just snowballed from there."

"Is this a tool? Is this a bad thing? It could be a bad thing. I mean, you could really see some grey and some really bad things to being on the run from the FBI and becoming one of the most famous hacktivists in world history all at the same time, its not necessarily a great choice of strategy."

Director Gary Lang identified that while he was connecting with Commander X for this documentary, the hacktivist did not have legal status in Mexico, which made access to people and information more challenging.

"None of us were interested in him being arrested for the basis of a documentary," Lang told Yahoo Canada. "I couldn't find anyone else in Anonymous or any of my other contacts in cybersecurity, because I couldn't tell [them] I was working on a film about Commander X."

"We had to play it safely throughout, there's a risk on all sides from hacktivists and from forces of the state to take an interest in what we were doing."

Commander X in exile in the picturesque city of Guanajuato. With its narrow alleys and colourful, colonial-era architecture, its one of the most beautiful and historically significant cities in Mexico and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

'Question everything'

Lang's message for anyone who watches the film is to "question everything," something the director said he learned from Commander X.

"With the forces visible and invisible, we all need to be aware, and lots of us can push back and you don't have to burn anything down to push back," Lang said.

"You can have a conversation with anyone right up to 85 year olds who are aware that their phones are listening and that their Facebook is curated in ways that they didn't ask for, and that their privacy has been invaded... We can accept them as realities, or we can change them."

Thornton, whose third book "My Year Living Anonymously" is set to be release this year, said he wants people to not judge others and notice that "beauty can be found at shin height."

"There he was, he was sleeping in the park, he was asking for two dollars and he was bringing down dictators in North Africa," he said. "If I live to be 200 years old, I will never lose the smile on my face when I think about the fact that when he brought them down, he was sleeping in a park, in a Canadian winter and they were in gold palaces."

Commander X's message is that it's an "ongoing choice" to participate in something "bigger than yourself."

"I was not alone, there were others who are in the movie who also found themselves in that moment," he said. "This is something that just sort of happens to you and your life and the choice is to pick it up and run with it and change history, or not."
BOISE, Idaho (AP)  The harassment began soon after a report by a 19-year-old intern, who alleged an Idaho lawmaker raped her, became public.

One state representative sought a copy of the police report and made inquiries into how the young woman herself could be referred for criminal charges for reporting the alleged rape.

Another shared links to a far-right blog post that included the interns name, photo and personal details about her life with thousands of people in a newsletter and on social media.

And members of a far-right, anti-government activist group tried to follow and harass the young woman after she was called to testify in a legislative public ethics hearing.

I can take criticism. I can take people laying out their opinion on me, the intern told The Associated Press in a phone interview Sunday evening. But this, its just overwhelming.

The AP doesnt name people who report sexual assault unless they agree to be publicly named. The intern asked to use the name Jane Doe, which is the name she testified under during a legislative ethics committee hearing last week.

The investigation into then-Rep. Aaron von Ehlinger, a Republican from Lewiston, underscores why many alleged sex crimes go unreported.

While the #MeToo movement made it clear that sexual harassment and assault remains a widespread problem, survivors can face stigma and disbelief when they come forward.

About three out of every four sexual assaults go unreported, according to the Rape and Incest National Network. And data from the U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics shows that as many as one-fifth of sexual violence survivors who chose not to report their crimes to police cited the fear of retaliation as a primary reason.

The Idaho probe began in March after the intern reported that the lawmaker raped her in his apartment after they went to a Boise restaurant. Von Ehlinger has denied all wrongdoing and maintains they had consensual sex. The Boise Police Department is investigating.

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A legislative ethics committee voted unanimously last week that Von Ehlinger engaged in conduct unbecoming a lawmaker. He resigned before the full House could vote on whether to remove him from office.

But the harassment faced by Doe did not stop. Members of the far-right are still attacking, some calling her disparaging names and posting her photo.

You know that photo everyone is posting? Im 12 years old in that photo. Im not even a teenager in that photo, and theyre sharing it calling me nasty, Doe said. But the truth cannot be altered.

Doe first began working in the Idaho Statehouse a year ago, helping with legislative committees under the Legislatures high school page program.

She came back this year as an intern, hoping to prepare for a future career in government. She said she agreed to von Ehlingers dinner invitation because she was hoping to network and was excited to go to a restaurant that cost far more than what she could afford on her near-minimum wage salary.

After dinner, von Ehlinger brought her back to his apartment rather than her car because he said hed forgotten something. Once there, Doe said, he pinned her down and forced her to perform oral sex, despite the fact that she said no in several ways and froze. Doe is petite, and von Ehlinger is bigger, she said.

He has a collection of guns. Fight or flight was never an option, she said.

During the alleged sexual assult, Doe said she tried to focus on something else.

I got fixated on his curtains because they were bright red  I named them 'American red' in my head, because it was bright like the stripes in the flag, she said. I just stared at it ... I will never forget how disgusting I felt.

She reported the incident two days later. Next came forensic exams, reports to the Idaho attorney general and interviews with the ethics committee. The committee eventually announced a public hearing would be held, making Does complaint public on April 16.

Within hours, von Ehlinger's supporters began publicizing Does identity. One of his attorneys released a letter to the media that included Does real name. Two far-right websites posted Does name and details about her life, and one included her photo.

I respected them enough not to keep it a secret, Doe said of von Ehlingers fellow lawmakers, "and they destroyed me."

Rep. Priscilla Giddings, a Republican from the tiny community of White Bird, shared the link with Does name and photo in a newsletter to constituents and said the allegations were nothing more than a liberal smear job.

She also shared the blog post with thousands of followers on social media, making the interns identity widely known. Giddings has not responded to repeated requests for comment from the AP.

Rep. Heather Scott, a Republican from the community of Blanchard, filed a public record request with the city of Boise seeking a copy of the young woman's police report.

Scott approached Rep. Melissa Wintrow, a Democrat from Boise, to ask about how a person who files a false police report alleging sexual assault could be charged. Wintrow is a board member for the Idaho Coalition Against Sexual & Domestic Violence, which is representing Jane Doe.

Scott refused to answer questions from the AP and sent one comment in a short email.

I dont (sic) think you have your facts straight, Scott wrote on April 27.

Doe didnt know her identity had been made public until her next shift at the Statehouse. Right away she could tell the mood around her was different.

The secretaries let me know that Giddings had done that and they were showing me the article, Doe said, and my life is crashing before my eyes.

She kept showing up for work  partly because the ethics committee told her she needed to be available, she said. But she felt like she was under a magnifying glass.

Lawyers with the attorney generals office questioned her about her movements around the Statehouse. When she tried to ask the governor for a photo  shed hoped to collect one for every year she served in the Capitol building  staffers assumed she just wanted to complain, Doe said.

Nobody had the humanity to even look me in the eye, like I brought shame, she said. They made it seem as if everything I do is suspicious.

Being called to testify publicly at the ethics hearing compounded the pain. Shed already testified in private, only to be stopped when she began the difficult process of describing the alleged rape by a committee member who said it might make both Doe and the committee uncomfortable.

I was so upset by that, Doe said.

Doe was shielded from public view during the hearing, and the committee warned everyone her identity should stay private. As Doe left the hearing, some onlookers who were there in support of von Ehlinger rushed out to try to film her.

Boise resident Karen Smith, herself a former Statehouse intern who attended the ethics hearing to support Doe, heard the intern screaming in the hallway after she was accosted.

I thought, Oh no, somebody needs to maybe go help, Smith said.

When Smith found the group, Doe was curled up in a ball on the floor as her legal team tried to shield her with umbrellas. The onlookers were trying to get close to the young woman to videotape her and take photos.

Smith and another person tried to block the onlookers from getting close to Doe, she said.

There were like eight policeman there, state police, but they were watching and not doing anything and they said, Were not allowed to take sides. So we kept at it, Smith said.

Security footage obtained by Idaho Public Television's Idaho Reports on Tuesday showed one state trooper standing in a way that helped shield Doe from onlookers. Another officer appeared to talk to the people in the hall while other officers stood off to the side. Eventually, the officers escorted Doe out of the building.

Though the ethics investigation was not a criminal investigation, criminal trials do provide some guidance for situations like this one where emotions can be expected to run high, said former U.S. Attorney Wendy Olson.

You have to anticipate what are the risks to this person, Olson said in a phone interview last week, and take steps including private entrances and exits for witnesses and warning people against retaliating in any way.

The court always makes it clear that among the worst things you could ever do is try to harass or intimidate a witness, Olson said.

The alleged rape, harassment and the hearing all made one thing clear, Doe said. She wont stop fighting until shes sure the Statehouse has policies in place to prevent anyone else from experiencing the same pain she endured.

This has all been pushed at me against my will after my repeated attempts at No,' she said. But Im taking my voice back. Its mine, its not theirs.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) held huge rallies in West Bengal state this spring in a hard-fought race to unseat its chief minister, Mamata Banerjee. Banerjee won handily. After votes were counted Sunday, her All India Trinamool Congress party won 213 of the 292 seats up for grab in the state, according to the Election Commission of India. The BJP won 77 and two went to other parties. Modi congratulated his rival on her victory Sunday night.

Modi's BJP won in northeastern Assam state and, in alliance with regional parties, in the federally controlled territory of Puducherry, but lost in two southern states, Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

The elections were held through March and April, as India's COVID-19 pandemic started spiraling out of control. India recorded a record 3,689 new deaths Sunday and 392,488 new infections, down from Saturday's pandemic-high 401,993 new infections. Both the death and infection numbers are believed to be much higher than the official tallies. In Kolkata, West Bengal's capital, half of all people tested for COVID-19 now test positive.

Indian Medical Association national vice president Navjot Dahiya last week called Modi a "super-spreader" for holding the large election rallies in West Bengal and allowing a Hindu religious festival to take place with no restrictions. The Madras High Court in Tamil Nadu also excoriated the Election Commission last week for allowing packed campaign rallies in the middle of the pandemic. "Your institution is singularly responsible for the second wave of COVID-19," Chief Justice Sanjib Banerjee wrote for the court. "Your officers should be booked on murder charges probably."

Modi's government is "battling a public backlash on their mishandling of the COVID pandemic," political commentator Arati Jerath told The New York Times, but political analyst Nilanjan Mukhopadhyay cautioned that the loss in West Bengal will have to be studied to determine what role the BJP's coronavirus response played. "The BJP started running out of steam as the pandemic spread," he told The Associated Press. "The verdict in West Bengal state will definitely weaken Modi's position," but nobody's sure just how much.

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JERUSALEM (AP)  Israel's governmental watchdog agency said Monday it would launch an investigation into the deadly stampede at a religious festival over the weekend that left 45 ultra-Orthodox Jews dead.

State Comptroller Matanyahu Englman told a press conference in Jerusalem his report would focus on the actions of decision makers, police and rescuers in the field.

This is an event that could have been prevented, he said. I intend to open a special review that will investigate the circumstances that led to this disaster."

It was not immediately clear whether his announcement would end calls for an independent investigation.

Englman is seen as close to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who relies on the political support of ultra-Orthodox parties and whose government has come under fire for allowing the mass gathering. Englman said he has had no contact with Netanyahu recently.

Speaking at a Knesset memorial hearing, Netanyahu said Israel "will investigate in an orderly, in-depth, and responsible manner all the issues relating to the gathering on the mountain in the present and past, he said. We will learn all the lessons for the future so that a disaster like this wont repeat itself.

Netanyahu did not specify what kind of investigation would be conducted or what authorities it would have to gather information or hand out punishments.

Other members of Knesset, including Opposition Leader Yair Lapid, called for an independent state commission of inquiry into the incident, which would have broad powers to investigate.

Israel's attorney general informed Justice Minister Benny Gantz on Monday that there's no legal impediment preventing Israel's transition government from launching such an investigation.

Some 100,000 people, mostly ultra-Orthodox Jews, gathered for a Lag BaOmer festival at Mount Meron in northern Israel despite coronavirus restrictions limiting outdoor assemblies to 500 people and longstanding warnings about the safety of such gatherings. The state comptroller's office, under one of Englman's predecessors, issued a pair of reports in 2008 and 2011 warning that the conditions at Mount Meron were dangerous.

Early on Friday, thousands of people leaving one area of the site funneled through a narrow passageway descending the mountain. A slick slope caused people to slip and fall, resulting in a human avalanche that killed 45 people and and injured at least 150.

The tragedy brought renewed attention to Israel's ultra-Orthodox community, where many have flouted coronavirus restrictions over the past year and some leaders refuse to acknowledge the authority of the state. According to Israeli reports, ultra-Orthodox leaders put heavy pressure on the government to allow last week's celebration to take place without any restrictions.
Gov. J.B. Pritzker speaks March 31, 2021, at a news conference in South Elgin. The governor's office said Illinois will spend $15 million from the state capital plan on two academies to train workers in advanced manufacturing skills. One academy will be at Heartland Community College in the central Illinois community of Normal and the other at Southwestern Illinois College in Belleville. (Stacey Wescott / Chicago Tribune)
The Kansas City man accused of killing his two younger brothers after they arrived home from a Ramadan service Friday night had threatened family members on other occasions within the past two years, recent filings in Jackson County court allege.

Hanad A. Abdiaziz, 25, was charged with second-degree murder in the shooting deaths of 16-year-old Abdulwahid Abdulaziz and 14-year-old Abdirahman Abdulaziz. Abdiaziz was shot and killed during an armed encounter with Kansas City police hours after a warrant for his arrest was issued.

Charging documents do not reveal a potential motive for the killings. But the mother of the boys, interviewed by police after her sons were gunned down in front of her home, told investigators Abdiaziz had threatened to kill her and her husband on several occasions in the past.

She accused Abdiaziz of assaulting her husband in 2019. She also told police she believed Abdiaziz would have entered her home and killed other family members on Friday night as well if his gun had not jammed, according to court records.

Officers were called to the shootings about 11:30 p.m. Friday near East 8th and Olive streets in the Independence Plaza neighborhood on the citys northeast side. When they arrived, the boys were found lying on the walkway of the apartments entrance.

The boys died at the scene.

One of the boys brothers, who is 10, claimed to see Abdiaziz shoot his siblings before removing a black ski mask, court documents state. He believed Abdiaziz wanted to kill him as well, telling investigators that Abdiaziz was reloading his gun when he ran into his home.

The child told investigators that Abdiaziz used to be a good guy, but that about two years ago he started threatening the family.

Another family member was sleeping inside when he was awoken by gunshots, court records state. When he looked out the window to see what was happening, he told investigators, he saw Abdiaziz running away from the doorway.

Crime scene investigators found several spent shell casings at the scene. They also found a black ski mask.

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The boys were remembered as two rising stars by those who attend the Somali Center of Kansas City. They were active members in their faith community, often leading prayers.

In charging documents, detectives said Abdiaziz was described as having a tendency for violence not only to the general public but also to his family.

Abdiaziz was fatally shot by a Kansas City police officer about 6:10 p.m. Saturday after he presented a firearm that was believed to be a short-barreled rifle near Maple Boulevard and East Missouri Avenue, according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

The Missouri Highway Patrol is investigating the police shooting. The homicide case is being investigated by Kansas City police.
Kansas taxpayers will see a series of tax cuts and increases after the Legislature swiftly moved to override Gov. Laura Kellys veto of a $94 million package Monday.

Lawmakers rejected the governors argument that the measures which include $130 million in tax cuts and $35 million in new sales taxes, would lead to the kind of deep budget reductions seen following tax cuts during former Gov. Sam Brownbacks administration.

The Senate approved the override on a 30-10 vote. The House approved the override on a 84-39 vote, three more yes votes than it earned last month.

Among the new yes votes was Rep. Ron Howard, a Wichita Republican, and Rep. Mark Samsel a Wellsville Republican.

Samsel is currently facing charges for allegedly physically assaulting a student while substitute teaching last month.

Howard returned to the Legislature Monday after being absent for medical reasons all session.

In a statement Monday Kelly slammed the vote as reckless and shortsighted.

(It) jeopardizes our ability to fund education and will leave Kansans on the hook for another tax cut that we cant afford, Kelly said.

Its as if legislative leaders want to return to the days of budget crises, gutting transportation spending, and 4-day school weeks.

The bill would permit multinational companies to bring money from overseas back to Kansas without paying state taxes. It would also increase the states standard deduction and allow Kansans to itemize state tax returns regardless of whether they itemize their federal taxes. It offsets some of those costs by imposing state sales taxes on goods sold online to Kansans.

With increased revenue estimates and a projected budget surplus over $1 billion, Republican lawmakers said it was past time to implement tax cuts theyd been seeking for three years.

We are collecting more taxes in this state than we ever have, said Sen. Caryn Tyson a Parker Republican. I dont think that this bill goes far enough but it is a bill that we can pass.

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But Democrats pointed to the long term economic impact and existing budgetary concerns.

The override comes the day after the Kansas Department of Revenue sent a memo to lawmakers warning that $53 million for higher education needed to be added to the budget in order to avoid risking the states federal stimulus funds.

According to the memo, the Legislatures current budget doesnt achieve maintenance of efforts  a requirement that funding remain relatively consistent year-to-year  for higher education. As a result, it said, the federal government could remove stimulus funds for K-12 and higher education.

Sen. Tom Hawk, a Manhattan Democrat, cited this as a reason to reject the tax package.

I worry that we seem to always flirt with the same problem we had with the last recession in 2008 when we came back and gave tax cuts and then our state did not recover as quickly as the states around us, he said.

The pieces of the bill addressing itemization and overseas profits have been sought by Republican lawmakers since the U.S. Congress passed major federal tax cuts in 2017.

Proponents said the measure would bring Kansas in line with the federal tax code and keep businesses in the state. Opponents contend that it would gut the state budget in the interest of cutting taxes for only the wealthiest Kansans.

In 2018 and 2019, Kelly vetoed a bill to implement those policies. In February, she proposed that the Legislature replace those cuts with an overall increase of the standard deduction and by applying Kansas sales tax to out-of-state retailers who sell products online in Kansas.

Kelly said her proposal would give relief to more Kansans without impacting the states budget.

The Legislature instead added both of Kellys suggestions to the bill without removing any existing tax cuts. The new tax on online sales offsets about $35 million in costs.
Vehicles line up at the Hansen Dam COVID-19 vaccination site on Feb. 23 in Los Angeles. (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times)

Providers throughout Los Angeles County administered 144,000 fewer COVID-19 vaccine doses last week compared with the week prior  the clearest evidence yet that the demand for doses has dropped significantly.

The trend has sparked concerns in some corners that it may take longer than expected for the nation's most populous county to reach the level of widespread community inoculation experts believe is necessary to end the pandemic, if it ever does, and has officials rethinking their operations in hopes of getting more people to roll up their sleeves.

"At this point, the goal is for us to make it as easy as possible for people to come in and feel comfortable getting their vaccine," county Public Health Director Barbara Ferrer said during a news briefing.

During the week of April 17 to April 23, there were 611,592 doses administered countywide  an average of roughly 87,000 a day, according to figures Ferrer presented Monday.

From April 24 to April 30, the pace tailed off significantly. Only 467,134 doses were doled out, an average of about 67,000 per day.

Ferrer foreshadowed the plunge last week, saying that first-dose appointments had decreased by about 50% countywide.

"This is not because we didn't have supply," she said.

Experts say there are a number of reasons the vaccine rollout may be slowing. Some people may be uncertain about the vaccine's safety  or resistant to getting it at all. Others may believe they don't need to be inoculated, thinking their youth or health will shield them from the worst ravages of COVID-19.

Though virtually all the coronavirus-related news coming out of L.A. County has been positive lately, officials say it would be premature to declare victory in the long-running battle against the pandemic.

"We have some urgency here because the more people that get vaccinated, the less the risks are of both known and unknown variants of concern taking hold here and getting us back to a place where more people are dying, more people are in hospitals and we have more cases," Ferrer said.

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But she said the onus is on the county to make it as easy as possible to get vaccinated, and to work to dispel myths and alleviate residents' concerns.

"We're not here to force people to go and get vaccinated," she said. "We're here to present a lot of information to help you see and understand how powerful these vaccines are, how much of a difference it makes."

There are a number of explanations why certain groups of people might be more hesitant than others  such as concerns about vaccines' safety and distrust of government assurances because of past abuses by officials among people of color.

Some people who have survived COVID-19 may think they dont need a vaccination, when, in fact, immunity from natural infection may not be as fully protective or long-lived as from a subsequent vaccination. And some people may be in denial about COVID-19 and dont believe the disease exists or is of great importance, said Dr. Robert Kim-Farley, medical epidemiologist and infectious diseases expert at the UCLA Fielding School of Public Health.

Kim-Farley said public health officials will need to work with behavioral scientists to craft specific messages for people in each of those categories. A high priority should go to encouraging vaccinations among people of color because of their communities higher risk of infection, severe disease and death.

Government officials should also be taking special care to reach out to essential workers and make it as convenient as possible for them to be vaccinated. That includes government officials asking workplaces to offer onsite vaccination clinics and to give workers paid time off to deal with the usually minor side effects  such as a sore arm, a mild fever or feeling fatigued  that can result in a missed day of work after each vaccination dose.

Dr. Kirsten Bibbins-Domingo, a UC San Francisco epidemiologist, in a recent tweet urged policymakers to focus on easy steps that can be taken to encourage less-eager essential workers to get vaccinated. According to a recent Kaiser Family Foundation survey, more than half of essential workers are worried about missing work if side effects make them feel sick, and 4 out of 10 workers are unsure if theyre eligible to get a vaccine (everyone 16 and older are, and its free).

Thats why Bibbins-Domingo suggested that better information and paid time off would help. Focus on whats easy, she said.

About 54% of L.A. County residents 16 and older had received at least one vaccine dose as of April 28, public health data show. But only about 36% of Angelenos in that age range are fully vaccinated  meaning they've received either the single-shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine or both required doses of Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna.

Roughly half of all Californians have received at least one shot to date, and 32% are fully vaccinated, according to figures from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Experts estimate that a significant share of the population, usually pegged at or above 80%, would need to get vaccinated to deprive the coronavirus of new people to infect.

In a bid to reverse the recent slide, COVID-19 vaccine sites run by the city of Los Angeles will be open six days this week as part of a wider effort to expand access.

Along with the additional operating day, city officials said they will provide more opportunities for people to get vaccinated without having to make an appointment and open a new clinic with expanded night hours.

A wireless emergency alert containing vaccine information will also be sent citywide Monday afternoon, according to Mayor Eric Garcetti.

Our city and country stand at a critical turning point in our fight to defeat COVID-19  and just as we have in every phase of this crisis, we are meeting the moment with urgent action: by rolling up our sleeves and getting shots into the arms of every Angeleno, he said in a statement Sunday.

L.A.'s vaccine sites at Cal State L.A., Hansen Dam, San Fernando Park, Lincoln Park, Pierce College, Crenshaw Christian Center, Los Angeles Southwest College, USC, Century City and  for the moment  Dodger Stadium will operate Monday through Saturday this week.

The city's eight mobile clinics will remain on their typical Tuesday through Saturday schedule.

Appointment-free vaccinations also will be available at all mobile sites as well as the locations at Lincoln Park, San Fernando Park, Pierce College, USC, L.A. Southwest College, Century City and Cal State L.A., officials said.

One clinic, at the South Park Recreation Center, will be open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.  providing a nighttime option for those whose schedules would otherwise make it difficult to get vaccinated.

All told, city officials estimate they will have the capacity to administer about 260,000 doses this week, the most ever.

Los Angeles has enough doses to keep our momentum going, protect our communities against new variants and end this pandemic," Garcetti said. "So we all need to do our part to encourage our families, friends, co-workers and neighbors to get vaccinated as soon as possible.

While eliminating barriers to vaccine access and availability is one key piece of the puzzle, officials say an increasingly important part of the strategy moving forward needs to be convincing those who may be on the fence about getting inoculated.

According to estimates from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, which are based on survey data from the U.S. Census Bureau, only about 11% of Californians are thought to be vaccine hesitant, a lower rate than in all but four states.

However, reluctance to receive the vaccine is not uniform across the state, and having high levels of resistance in particular pockets would still give the coronavirus ample opportunities to spread.

To address the concerns of holdouts, health officials regularly point to the high level of protection the vaccines provide against COVID-19.

Along with that pragmatic push is a tantalizing pull: the prospect of getting back to pre-pandemic normalcy.

In California, which continues to record one of the lowest coronavirus case rates in the nation, many long-imposed restrictions on businesses are being relaxed or rescinded  allowing residents more freedom to go grab a bite to eat, see a movie or even visit Disneyland.

The state's hospitals, once stretched to their limits, are now caring for fewer coronavirus-positive patients than at almost any other point during the pandemic.

And the number of Californians dying from COVID-19 has also tumbled. L.A. County reported no new deaths related to COVID-19 on both Sunday and Monday  figures that, though likely an undercount because of weekend reporting delays, nonetheless represents the progress the region has made in beating back the pandemic.

Conditions have improved to the point that officials have even set a target date to fully reopen the state's economy: June 15.

But that progress, while hopeful, isn't inevitable, officials warn. Staying on the recovery path will require more Californians to be vaccinated and, in the meantime, continued adherence to the public health protocols that have been put in place to blunt coronavirus transmission.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Authorities say the boat hit a reef, causing it to capsize and break into pieces.

Video Transcript

JACUELINE SARKISSIAN: More than 100 emergency personnel responded to this accident. We know a lot of them trying to get as many people out of the water as safely as possible. Right now we still don't know where this boat was coming from, but take a look at this video right now, just to show you how chaotic the scene was yesterday.

Initial reports started coming in around 10:00 in the morning in the west area of the Cabrillo National Monument. It was during a press conference when a San Diego lifeguard chief says they initially got a call about the boat drifting towards the surf line. That boat then hit the reef just off the coast in Point Loma.

You can see from this video it tipped sideways as people try to get to the other side, while others are tossed overboard. Life jackets and debris scattered in the water as the boat eventually breaks apart before first responders arrived. Witnesses say around 10 people jumped in the water to help. Sadly four people died and more than two dozen are hospitalized with a wide range of injuries.

- Every indication, from our perspective, is that this was a smuggling vessel used to smuggle migrants into the United States illegally. We haven't confirmed the nationality of the people involved, but our agents are with many at the hospital. And the man who we believe was the operator, agents are with him, a suspected smuggler. But the investigation is still unfolding.

JACUELINE SARKISSIAN: And the captain of the boat is in custody right now. Once again, more than two dozen people in the hospital this morning suffering from a wide range of injuries at this point. We don't know the ages of those people and it's still unclear if any of the passengers were children.
Students outside Los Alamitos High School on Oct. 5, 2020. Parents and others in that district are pushing back against the proposed ethnic studies curriculum. (Los Angeles Times)

To the editor: I was extremely concerned by the article on the vitriolic pushback to ethnic studies in some Orange County school districts.

There is nothing "hateful" about learning the history and contributions of Asian, Black, Latino, Native American and other underrepresented communities, and it was disappointing to see a board member from my own school district refer to the curriculum as nothing more than "left-wing political ideology."

This isn't about politics. This is about creating a shared understanding of different people's experiences in the U.S., which would benefit all students.

Shani Murray, Placentia

..

To the editor: State Board of Education President Linda Darling-Hammond says it is "not the point or goal of critical race theory" to create division among groups.

Whether critical race theory does or does not create division can be determined empirically. That's quite easily done. I certainly want such outcomes known before instituting a curriculum, especially when there are already sharp divisions over it.

I'm alarmed that this outcome is not already known. I, and I'm sure others, benefit greatly in forming opinions from knowing the results of empirical studies rather than having hoped-for goals.

Allan Rohlfs, Sierra Madre

..

To the editor: After reading about the ignorance of some in the Los Alamitos Unified School District community, I am appalled but sadly not surprised.

As an alumna of Los Alamitos High School, I can attest to the value, and dare I say, necessity of curriculum exploring critical race theory being offered to students and staff alike. For anyone who objects to such material, I would suggest they expose themselves to such valuable content.

They might start with Peggy McIntosh's classic, "White Privilege: Unpacking the Invisible Knapsack."

Megan Layton Martinez, Seal Beach

..

To the editor: Opponents of ethnic studies believe the curriculum "teaches children that America is based on white supremacy and that white people are racists, even if they don't know it."

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Well, they finally got the message, and because the truth hurts, they are raging against it.

Momentum is not on their side, or so it seems. If history is truly written by the victors, maybe the "meek" (the Bible's word for the unheard) actually are inheriting the earth. Right on.

Michael Hynes, Northridge

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
- By GF Value





The stock of Microsoft (NAS:MSFT, 30-year Financials) gives every indication of being significantly overvalued, according to GuruFocus Value calculation. GuruFocus Value is GuruFocus' estimate of the fair value at which the stock should be traded. It is calculated based on the historical multiples that the stock has traded at, the past business growth and analyst estimates of future business performance. If the price of a stock is significantly above the GF Value Line, it is overvalued and its future return is likely to be poor. On the other hand, if it is significantly below the GF Value Line, its future return will likely be higher. At its current price of $251.91 per share and the market cap of $1897.3 billion, Microsoft stock gives every indication of being significantly overvalued. GF Value for Microsoft is shown in the chart below.





Microsoft Stock Appears To Be Significantly Overvalued

Because Microsoft is significantly overvalued, the long-term return of its stock is likely to be much lower than its future business growth, which averaged 14.7% over the past three years and is estimated to grow 13.45% annually over the next three to five years.

Link: These companies may deliever higher future returns at reduced risk.

Investing in companies with poor financial strength has a higher risk of permanent loss of capital. Thus, it is important to carefully review the financial strength of a company before deciding whether to buy its stock. Looking at the cash-to-debt ratio and interest coverage is a great starting point for understanding the financial strength of a company. Microsoft has a cash-to-debt ratio of 1.86, which is in the middle range of the companies in Software industry. GuruFocus ranks the overall financial strength of Microsoft at 6 out of 10, which indicates that the financial strength of Microsoft is fair. This is the debt and cash of Microsoft over the past years:

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Microsoft Stock Appears To Be Significantly Overvalued

Investing in profitable companies carries less risk, especially in companies that have demonstrated consistent profitability over the long term. Typically, a company with high profit margins offers better performance potential than a company with low profit margins. Microsoft has been profitable 10 years over the past 10 years. During the past 12 months, the company had revenues of $160 billion and earnings of $7.34 a share. Its operating margin of 40.15% better than 98% of the companies in Software industry. Overall, GuruFocus ranks Microsoft's profitability as strong. This is the revenue and net income of Microsoft over the past years:

Microsoft Stock Appears To Be Significantly Overvalued

Growth is probably the most important factor in the valuation of a company. GuruFocus research has found that growth is closely correlated with the long term stock performance of a company. A faster growing company creates more value for shareholders, especially if the growth is profitable. The 3-year average annual revenue growth of Microsoft is 14.7%, which ranks better than 72% of the companies in Software industry. The 3-year average EBITDA growth rate is 19.5%, which ranks in the middle range of the companies in Software industry.

Another way to look at the profitability of a company is to compare its return on invested capital and the weighted cost of capital. Return on invested capital (ROIC) measures how well a company generates cash flow relative to the capital it has invested in its business. The weighted average cost of capital (WACC) is the rate that a company is expected to pay on average to all its security holders to finance its assets. We want to have the return on invested capital higher than the weighted cost of capital. For the past 12 months, Microsoft's return on invested capital is 30.68, and its cost of capital is 6.15. The historical ROIC vs WACC comparison of Microsoft is shown below:

Microsoft Stock Appears To Be Significantly Overvalued

To conclude, Microsoft (NAS:MSFT, 30-year Financials) stock appears to be significantly overvalued. The company's financial condition is fair and its profitability is strong. Its growth ranks in the middle range of the companies in Software industry. To learn more about Microsoft stock, you can check out its 30-year Financials here.

To find out the high quality companies that may deliever above average returns, please check out GuruFocus High Quality Low Capex Screener.

This article first appeared on GuruFocus.


May 3All the sacrifice, all the hard work, all the adversity  Brontae Harris knew it'd pay off.

And, on Sunday, it did.

The 2015 Cullman graduate and former UAB standout signed with the Los Angeles Rams as an undrafted free agent and will have a chance to compete for a coveted spot on the team's 53-man roster ahead of the upcoming NFL season.

The defensive back's first stop on that journey is rookie minicamp, which opens later this month.

"First thing's first  I've got to thank God," Harris said. "It's been a long weekend and a long few days. I did a lot of praying, and He brought me through it. After I got the call, I called my parents next. They were stressed and worried about me. They know how important this is to me. Getting through the weekend and finally getting that call  it's mind-blowing and a dream come true.

"You wait on this chance ever since you first pick up a football. I still don't believe it's real, but I'm trying to enjoy the moment. Receiving this opportunity is a blessing, and I couldn't be more thankful or humbled by it."

Although Harris was somewhat disappointed not to get drafted, the 24-year-old said his maturation over the past couple of years helped with the process. He also knew a franchise would take a flyer on him, giving the Cullman native an opportunity to showcase his abilities.

"I've matured a lot, and I understand the business side of it because of my injury (in 2019)," Harris said. "I know that plays a big role. I wanted to get drafted, but I also just wanted a chance to show someone I could overcome that injury. This is a blessing, and I was confident I'd get a chance. I knew I put some great stuff on film. And knowing that I performed well against great competition, I knew I'd get a call. I knew someone would take a chance on me, and I'm grateful for that."

Harris began his career at UAB as a walk-on before earning a scholarship in 2017.

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In three seasons with the Blazers  he missed his redshirt junior campaign with a foot injury  Harris tallied 78 tackles (seven for loss), 20 pass breakups, four interceptions (one pick-six) and two sacks in 25 contests. He also garnered All-Conference USA accolades in 2018 (honorable mention) and 2020 (second team) following fine seasons in which UAB won conference titles.

He was also a Bulsworth Trophy nominee in 2020. The prestigious award is presented annually to college football's most outstanding player who began his career as a walk-on. In addition to that, he made the Jim Thorpe Award (2019, 2020) and Comeback Player of the Year (2020) preseason watch list.

Harris put together a superb prep career on the gridiron, claiming All-County (2012-14), All-Area (2013-15) and All-State (2014-15) honors during his two-stop tenure at Hanceville and Cullman.

Now, as he attempts to reach the pinnacle of his sport, Harris wants those who aspire to reach their dreams to follow in his footsteps and never give up the fight.

"First thing's first  you've got to trust God," he said. "If you build a relationship with God, He'll come through for you. You might go through some trials and tribulations, but He'll come through for you every time. Aside from that, figure out what you want to do and chase after it and build a plan and be disciplined. There's going to be days you don't want to do it, but you have to do it to get where you want to be. And lastly, believe in yourself. I had so many people tell me 'I couldn't do this' and 'I couldn't do that.' It won't be easy, but if you believe in yourself and believe in God, it'll all work out."
He doesnt want you to vote, doesnt want you to protest and doesnt even want you to disagree with him. Im not describing the leader of a communist country, Im talking about Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis.

Since taking office, hes made his motives clear, becoming more authoritarian by the day. Using his offices power, the governor has eroded the liberty and rights of his constituents and businesses in the Sunshine State, rewarded his wealthy donors and undermined the media.

DeSantis has taken every opportunity to suppress voting rights. From his efforts to stop Amendment 4s implementation, to his opposition to major changes to clemency rules  the governors actions have blocked hundreds of thousands of Floridians from regaining their right to vote.

Under the guise of fighting election fraud, (Floridas only election fraud in 2020 came from Republican operatives) DeSantis prioritized legislation adding hurdles to vote-by-mail and originally sought to ban ballot drop boxes. This comes after a record number of Floridians voted by mail in 2020, and more Democrats than Republicans voted that way.

From Nicolas Maduros actions to undermine Venezuelas electoral process and suppress votes, to Daniel Ortegas moves to intimidate and confuse voters in Nicaragua, tactics to limit voting has been widespread in South American regimes. Voter suppression is a slippery slope that ends only with injustice.

DeSantis is also working to silence dissenting voices. His top legislative priority, House Bill 1, clamps down on freedom of speech and criminalizes protests  a clear infringement on our First Amendment rights, guaranteed by the Constitution. Under the new law, even if youre peacefully protesting, if others became violent, you could be jailed alongside them. This move to silence, intimidate and imprison opposing voices bears a chilling resemblance to Fidel Castros actions to jail critics of his regime.

Businesses arent free from the governors attacks, either. Many companies, especially those that rely on large group events, want to protect customers by requiring COVID-19 vaccines. But the governor issued an executive order banning the practice and urged the Legislature to outlaw it. At the same time, hes used his authority to provide his political donors with exclusive access to COVID-19 vaccines while frontline workers and teachers waited in line. And hes done this while adding more than $14 million to his reelection fund since January.

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As the lone Democratic statewide official, Im the only voice on the cabinet in opposition to DeSantis actions. But instead of a debate on the facts, hes responded with attempts to increase his power and limit the authority of my office. Media criticism isnt welcome, either. Almost systematically, DeSantis attacks their coverage, ignores their questions, and refuses to release data and information which should be publicly available.

Weve seen the same actions to consolidate power and silence media in countries like Cuba and Nicaragua, where Castro oversaw a rewrite of the constitution and Maduro has consistently silenced and undermined the independent press.

And while the governor condemns the leaders of these countries, his actions speak louder than his words. DeSantis has been pulling from the authoritarian playbook  suppressing votes and opponents, attacking the media and clamping down on constitutional rights.

Under DeSantis regime, if you dont support him or his party, he wants to stop you from voting. If you disagree with him, hell use his authority to silence you. And if you dare protest and speak out, be prepared to end up behind bars.

Nikki Fried is Floridas commissioner of agriculture.
Marijuana sales in Illinois have soared since the state legalized recreational use in January 2020, reaching $1.03 billion last year. That included $669 million in recreational weed sales and more than $366 million in medical sales. The pace has accelerated in 2021, with nearly $377 million in marijuana sales through March, including $279 million in recreational sales and $98 million in medical sales, according to the state.
A Camden County deputy repeatedly shot a man Saturday in South Mills after he pointed a shotgun at officers trying to make an arrest.

Samuel Jacob Hickman, 25, of Pasquotank County was treated for multiple gunshot wounds in a hospital, according to a release from the Camden County Sheriffs Office. He was later released and is being held in a jail in Norfolk.

A woman on Pier Landing Loop Road called 911 Saturday night when her intoxicated former boyfriend blasted her back door open with a shotgun, according to the release. She and her two children were inside. There was screaming during the 911 call before it was disconnected.

The suspect fled in a white Toyota pickup before deputies arrived. They stopped him on Pier Landing Loop Road. He got out of his truck and pointed the shotgun toward officers before a deputy shot him several times. The deputy is on administrative leave pending an investigation.

Hickman was charged with discharging a firearm into an occupied dwelling, first degree burglary, assault by pointing a gun and assault on a female.

On Sunday, protesters marched in Elizabeth City over the shooting of Andrew Brown on April 21 by Pasquotank County deputies. The incident has heightened the attention on shootings by law enforcement.

Jeff Hampton, 757-446-2090, jeff.hampton@pilotonline.com
Northern Ireland marked its centenary on Monday under coronavirus restrictions, simmering post-Brexit unrest and a leadership crisis marring the anniversary in the British-ruled province.

Northern Ireland -- home to 1.9 million people -- was created in 1921 as Ireland freed itself from British rule following a war for independence.

Commemoration events have been cancelled due to Covid-19 curbs and the weeks leading up to the anniversary have witnessed the worst rioting in the region for years.

First Minister Arlene Foster last Wednesday announced her resignation after a reported coup in her Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), where rancour is brewing over the consequences of Brexit.

Throughout its history, Northern Ireland has been bitterly contested between pro-UK unionists and pro-Ireland nationalists, who do not recognise its legitimacy and regard Monday as the anniversary of the unjust "partition" of Ireland.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson nevertheless said it was a "very significant national anniversary", marking "the formation of the United Kingdom as we know it today".

He said it was important that "we pause to reflect on the complex history of the last 100 years".

It is "an important opportunity to come together to celebrate Northern Ireland", he added.

In contrast, Mary Lou McDonald, the leader of all-Ireland nationalist party Sinn Fein, said "a century of partition has cost us dearly".

"That past was defined by those who divide. The future is for those of us who unite," she added.

Recent unrest across Northern Ireland emanated from the unionist community, where Johnson is held in low esteem for allowing a special post-Brexit "protocol" for the province which many feel dislocates the region from its place in the UK.

At least 88 police officers were injured in a week of riots in April that spread to the nationalist community and saw police with water cannon deployed against youths throwing bricks and petrol bombs.

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- Anniversary troubles -

The protocol also dealt a heavy blow to Foster, who had been vehemently opposed to any special post-Brexit arrangements for Northern Ireland, but have been powerless to prevent Johnson agreeing them with Brussels.

Foster will step down as DUP leader on May 28 and as first minister "at the end of June", she said in her departure statement.

A leadership contest to replace her heated up Monday, as Jeffrey Donaldson, who represents the party in the parliament in London, entered the race.

"Our task is to not only make the case for the union but to strengthen that union in the years ahead," he said, launching his campaign in Belfast.

"Our next century will be built on the politics of persuasion."

Northern Irish agriculture minister Edwin Poots has already declared his candidacy and is considered by many to be the frontrunner in the contest -- with a more hardline stance.

Unionists fear the protocol would increase the likelihood of a united Ireland -- a prospect which has been an historic source of bloodshed in Northern Ireland.

A three-decade-long sectarian conflict known as "The Troubles" saw 3,500 killed over the question of Northern Ireland's destiny but bitter divisions remain.

A 1998 peace deal largely ended fighting but Washington has voiced concerns about the impact of Brexit.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Monday after talks with British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab in London that "the United States remains a steadfast supporter of a secure and prosperous Northern Ireland" where all communities "can enjoy the gains of the hard-won peace".

On Sunday, head of state Queen Elizabeth II said "the peace process is rightly credited to a generation of leaders who had the vision and courage to put reconciliation before division".

"Above all, the continued peace is a credit to its people, upon whose shoulders the future rests," she said.

Yet the future of Northern Ireland within the UK is ever more uncertain as many feel the fallout of Brexit has altered its constitutional status.

The Brexit protocol effectively keeps Northern Ireland in the EU customs union and parts of the single market.

Some unionists say new checks at Northern Irish ports to enforce this amount to an "Irish sea border" which is paving the way for a united Ireland.

A weekend poll by the Sunday Life and Sunday Independent newspapers found 90 per cent of unionists predict a return to violence if the province is united with Ireland.

jts/phz-am/bp
The two people who jumped out of a bedroom window on the third floor of their condo on April 22 are siblings and International students at Old Dominion University. Now, locals are banding together to help them rebuild.

The siblings, Andrea Zourou and Stratos Zouros, are from Athens, Greece. A university spokesperson said the siblings last names are spelled differently because in Greece, spelling is different for men and women.

Andrea is a masters student studying chemistry with plans to graduate this summer.

Stratos is a sophomore accounting major and campus ambassador, according to Don Stansberry, ODUs vice president of student engagement and enrollment services at the university, and Kasie Reyes, the universitys deputy director of International Programs.

They lived together in the Lafayette Cove Condominiums by the intersection of Mayflower Road and Delaware Avenue in Norfolks Colonial Place neighborhood.

After jumping from a third-floor window and using a mattress to break their fall, the siblings were taken to the hospital with injuries to their spine, legs and back, Stansberry said.

Since escaping the fire, theyve both had surgery and have been released from the hospital.

Their families werent able to speak to The Pilot, but they are in the area, an ODU spokesman said.

In addition to Andrea and her brother, three other people were injured, but were evaluated at the scene and released. The fire was marked under control by 5:10 a.m.

A GoFundMe has been created with a goal of $35,000. As of 3:30 p.m. Monday, over 300 people have donated over $26,000.

A friend of the siblings did not respond to requests for comment, but said in a Facebook post that they are like family.

This was their house, read the post, written on April 23. It caught on fire last night and they had to jump off the third floor in order to survive. Thankfully, they are both incredibly strong and currently recovering. If you want, you can help them get back on their feet by donating.

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The siblings are extremely active on campus and lost everything in the fire, according to the GoFundMe set up for them by Reyes, the universitys deputy director of International Programs.

Wed love (to) show our love and support by helping to meet some immediate financial needs, the post read. Any assistance, through a donation or even by sharing this link, is greatly appreciated.

For more information on how to help, visit tinyurl.com/AndreaandStratos.

Saleen Martin, 757-446-2027, saleen.martin@pilotonline.com
Yahoo News, a member of the One Free Press Coalition, is publishing the groups latest 10 Most Urgent list below to highlight the increasingly dangerous climate for journalists around the world.

1. Ibraimo Abu Mbaruco (Mozambique)

Ibraimo Abu Mbaruco. (Facebook)

Mozambican radio reporter and human rights advocate in Cabo Delgado, has been missing for over a year as conflict in the region escalates. Family and colleagues still have no information on his whereabouts after he sent an SOS text saying he was surrounded by soldiers.

2. Kasra Nouri (Iran)

Kasra Nouri (via Facebook)

Journalist, serving a 12-year sentence related to his coverage of religious protests in 2018, has spent a significant amount of time in solitary confinement, been moved multiple times, and his family is currently unable to communicate with him.

3. Pham Chi Dung (Vietnam)

Vietnamese bloggers Pham Chi Dung, right, Nguyen Tuong Thuy and Le Huu Minh Tuan during their trial in Ho Chi Minh city in January. (STR/Vietnam News Agency/AFP via Getty Images)

Freelance internet reporter and founding chairman of a civil society organization advocating for press freedom is serving a 15-year prison sentence on anti-state charges after calling on the EU to postpone trade agreements until Vietnam improves its human rights record.

4. Ahmed Humaidan (Bahrain)

A Bahraini photographer holds up a cutout picture of jailed photographer Ahmed Humaidan in 2014. (Hasan Jamali/AP)

Photographer covering protests in Bahrain was arrested while documenting protesters attacking a police station in 2012, and sentenced to ten years behind bars in 2014. He recently contracted and recovered from COVID-19 while imprisoned.

5. Esraa Abdelfattah (Egypt)

Longtime blogger, journalist and activist reporting on human rights has been held on false news and anti-state charges since 2019, and has had her pretrial detention extended. She has gone on hunger strikes multiple times to protest her sentence and treatment.

6. Leonardo Sakamoto and the team at Reporter Brasil (Brazil)

Leonardo Sakamoto. (Twitter)

Leonardo Sakamoto is the president of Reporter Brasil, an investigative reporting organization, focused on issues from human trafficking to workers rights to environmental degradation. The outlet has faced online attacks, attempted break-ins and anonymous threats.

7. Sandhya Ravishankar (India)

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Sandhya Ravishankar. (Twitter)

Freelance journalist reporting on elections, politics and corruption, including on Tamil Nadus sand mafia and beach sand mining, has faced years of threats and harassment, including death and rape threats, doxing, and a 2018 attempt to sabotage her motorbike.

8. Agnieszka Pikulicka (Uzbekistan)

Agnieszka Pikulicka. (Twitter)

Freelance correspondent threatened publicly by Uzbek Interior Ministry with potential lawsuits in relation to her reporting on the attack of an LGBTQ activist.

9. Katsiaryna Barysevich (Belarus)

Katsiaryna Barysevich. (Sergei Sheleg/BelTA, Pool via AP)

Correspondent for the independent news website Tut.by was sentenced earlier this year to six months behind bars for her coverage of protests in Belarus in 2020.

10. Daria Komarova (Russia)

Russian journalist for Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty has been put on three trials in relation to her coverage of pro-Navalny protests, facing potential fines and administrative detention.

____

Read more from Yahoo News:
A few weeks before a mob forced its way into the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6 to disrupt or stop the formal tally of President Biden's electoral victory, a group of far-right protesters breached the Oregon Capitol in Salem. And State Rep. Mike Nearman (R) let them in, according to security footage obtained by The Oregonian and Oregon Public Broadcasting in January. Marion County District Attorney Paige Clarkson announced Friday that Nearman will face criminal charges for "unlawfully and knowingly" opening the door for rioters on Dec. 21 "with intent to obtain a benefit or to harm another."

The surveillance video shows that Nearman, one of the most conservative members of the Oregon Legislature, exited the Capitol through a side door near where the far-right group had gathered to protest COVID-19 safety measures as the House was in session. Two protesters rushed in and waved in fellow demonstrators, and Nearman "promptly walked around the building and entered on the opposite side," OPB reports. State and Salem police arrived and managed to push out the rioters, who tried to fight their way back in, eventually forcing back police with bear mace.

"Oregon State Police and Salem police contained the raucous crowd, some of whom were armed with guns, to a vestibule of the Capitol and ultimately removed them from the building," The Oregonian reports. At least five people involved in the breach and property damage were arrested, and "at least three people who participated in the Salem protest went on to participate in the attack on the U.S. Capitol," OBP reports.

After the video's release, Nearman was stripped of all committee assignments, relieved of his building pass, billed $2,700 for damages, and urged to resign by Oregon House Speaker Tina Kotek (D). Nearman, 57, has now been charged with two misdemeanors, for first-degree official misconduct and second-degree criminal trespass. He is scheduled to appear in court on May 11, and if he does not, a warrant will be issued for his arrest, court documents show.

Kotek and House Majority Leader Barbara Smith (D) repeated their calls for his resignation Friday. Republicans in the Legislature have mostly kept silent on Nearman's conduct, but House Republican Leader Christine Drazan said in January that she will support the results of a criminal investigation. "State legislators are the voices of their community," Drazan told The Washington Post on Saturday. "They are not above the law."

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Coronavirus cases have dropped slightly in Mecklenburg County, but a closer look by neighborhoods shows mixed progress.

The latest data released by the county shows that all ZIP codes in and around Charlotte have fewer than 500 new cases per 100,000 residents over the last two weeks. The countywide average is 295.0 new cases per 100,000 residents, based on positive coronavirus test results from April 15-28.

The case rate data by ZIP code shows only the most recent, or active, infections detected by coronavirus testing and takes into account population to show where cases are most concentrated. Mecklenburg County Public Health typically releases ZIP code-level data weekly and the rates are based on a 14-day average.

Public Health Director Gibbie Harris on Thursday said Mecklenburgs numbers are experiencing slight upticks and down-ticks every week. The COVID-19 positivity rate fell to 6.6% in the past week, a 20% decline. Yet, the number still exceeds the states 5% target, reflecting a better control of virus spread.

The average number of people hospitalized rose to 176 Wednesday, a 17% increase over the past 14 days.

The countys highest concentration of COVID cases is in and around University City. Residents of ZIP code 28262 saw an increase in cases from the beginning of the month to now.

ZIP code 28206 (Tryon Hills, Druid Hills, and some streets between uptown and NoDa) trails closely behind and had the biggest increase in COVID case rates.

Other ZIP codes with high case rate concentrations are 28203 (South End and parts of Dilworth), 28204 (Cherry and Elizabeth), 28208 (west of uptown, along Freedom Drive, West Boulevard and Wilkinson Boulevard) and 28278 (Steele Creek and along the South Carolina border near Lake Wylie).

The lowest concentration of COVID cases is in north Mecklenburg near Lake Norman, ZIP code 28036.

ZIP codes 28211 (south Charlotte along Providence Road, including Cotswold and parts of Myers Park), 28226 (which includes areas along Sharon View Road and parts of Carmel and Wessex Square), and 28031 (Cornelius) also have some of the lowest numbers in the county.

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Residents of ZIP codes 28031, 28036 and 28209 (around Freedom Park and Woodlawn Road) saw the biggest drops.

The county has logged almost 110,000 cases since the start of the pandemic, according to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services. Mecklenburg officials say 945 residents have died of coronavirus-related complications.

COVID-19 case rates by ZIP code

This data comes from Mecklenburg County Public Health and includes positive COVID-19 test results, based on a persons home ZIP code, from April 15 to April 28.

Below 200 cases per 100,000 residents:

28036: 109.1

28211: 156.0

28226: 169.0

28031: 199.1

Between 200-300 cases:

28207: 208.8

28212: 223.2

28210: 230.9

28270: 236.0

28209: 241.5

28078: 244.1

28277: 262.1

28105: 264.4

Between 300-400 cases:

28217: 311.5

28205: 316.4

28227: 318.4

28215: 331.4

28214: 365.5

28213: 366.1

28134: 371.0

28269: 374.3

28273: 377.1

28202: 396.9

Above 400 cases:

28216: 406.2

28278: 411.7

28208: 432.6

28204: 454.3

28203: 472.2

28206: 485.0

28262: 495.0

Observer reporters Gavin Off and Alison Kuznitz contributed to this report.
Residents in a Pinole neighborhood told to shelter-in-place by police

Video Transcript

ANNE MAKOVEC: I'm Anne Makovec at Live News Desk. And we just got some breaking news in from the East Bay right now. The Pinole police department has the neighborhood locked down right now. They just sent out an alert within the last hour and didn't give a lot of information. But here is the area in question right now.

Law enforcement activity on Kildare Way between Marlesta Road and Kilkenny Way. This is right by Shannon Elementary School. Anybody who lives in that area is told to stay inside, close and lock your windows, lock your doors, stay off the phone, and do not call 911 unless you need to report a life threatening emergency.

Again, this is all coming straight from the Pinole police department. Right now, they say this is in effect until further notice. We will keep you posted as soon as we get any new details. Back to you.
As a first-generation college student, Sandra Matz had no intention of pursuing a Ph.D., much less becoming a professor. Then she went to college and earned a life-changing scholarship.

When I got a scholarship to spend a year at Cambridge University during my undergraduate degree, I fell in love with research and the question of how we might be able to better understand peoples daily experiences through the lens of big data, Matz, 32, says.

Matz eventually returned to school to pursue a Ph.D. in psychology; during her studies, a friend mentioned applying for marketing positions at universities, rather than jobs in their psychology departments. Interest piqued, Matz did the same, applying to Columbia Business School.

She got the job.

THE NINTH EDITION OF POETS&QUANTS BEST 40 UNDER 40 BUSINESS SCHOOL PROFESSORS

Going through the application process and learning more about the world of B-schools made me realize that they offered exactly what I was looking for: an intellectual home that values not just grand ideas and theoretical contributions but also real impact and a discussion of how to tackle current societal challenges, Matz says. And I honestly couldnt have hoped for a better place than CBS.

Looking back now, it feels almost unreal how beautifully everything worked out. I found a job that I absolutely love, a city that I adore, and the most wonderful set of colleagues I could imagine.

Sandra Matz, who teaches Managerial Negotiations and Lead: People, Teams and Organizations to MBA students at Columbia, is one of 40 business school professors under the age of 40 to be recognized as this years Poets&Quants Best 40-Under-40 Business School Professors.

Sandra Matz of Columbia Business School is a Poets&Quants Best 40 Under 40 Business School Professor for 2021. Courtesy photo

A DOZEN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS AND 15 WOMEN MAKE THIS YEARS LIST

Now in its ninth year, the goal of this annual recognition remains the same: to identify the most talented young professors currently teaching in MBA programs around the world.

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This year our professors come from 12 schools outside of the United States and 21 schools based in the U.S. Some six schools  Harvard Business School, MIT Sloan, Northwestern Kellogg, NYU Stern, Wharton, and the Yale School of Management  placed two professors each on this years list. There are 15 women on this years list, up from a dozen last year, but still down from the record 16 two years ago.

This year we received more than 2,200 nominations for nearly 150 professors. Thats right on par with last years numbers when just over 2,000 nominations poured in with about 160 professors to evaluate. Once we close the nomination period, our editorial staff evaluates each nomination and professor on teaching, which is given a 70% weight and research, which is given the remaining 30% weight.

For teaching, we consider the nominations received  both quality and quantity. For example, if we receive a hundred or more nominations for a professor but theres little substance to the nominations, theyre probably not as likely to score as high as the professor that receives a dozen in-depth and thoughtful nominations. We also consider any teaching-related awards the professors have won.

For research, we look at the volume and impact of the professors scholarly work. To do this we examine Google Citation numbers as well as major media attention received by the professor and his or her research work. Lastly, akin to teaching, we consider research awards and grants the professors has received. As the list has gotten increasingly competitive over the years, weve started also considering the topics of research. For example, if the research goes beyond the traditional and into societal, environmental, or policy issues, those professors usually receive higher scores.

Once the professors are scored, we review the Top 60 and consult each editorial staff member before finalizing our Top 40.



Stella Pachidi of the Cambridge Judge Business School is a 2021 Best 40 Under 40 Professor. Courtesy photo

THE TOP PROFS COME FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD

As can be imagined on a list this global, the professors have very different upbringings and backgrounds. Columbias Matz, for example, grew up in Germany and had not lived in the U.S. until taking her job in New York. While it took Matz a little longer to realize academia was her path, Cambridge Judge Business Schools Stella Pachidi knew she wanted to become a professor from a young age.

I was still a kid, Pachidi says of when she first wanted to become a professor. I loved reading stories about academic life and dreamed of becoming an academic myself one day. As an undergrad, Pachidi says she was inspired most by the professors that went beyond the classroom and had an impact on the personal development of students.

The same goes for Naim Bugra Ozel, who is an associate professor of accounting at the University of Texas at Dallas and is now serving as a visiting professor at The Wharton School. I grew up in a family of accountants and bankers, and I have always been intrigued by little details that make big differences. So it seems only natural that I gravitated towards being a business school professor, Ozel says, noting his father started calling him the professor in the fifth grade.

MULTI-GENERATIONAL PROFESSORS

Others come from generations of college professors. Brad Greenwood of George Mason University watched his grandfather as a professor from a young age. Likewise, Jasmine Hu, who is an associate professor of management at Ohio State Universitys Fisher College of Business is a third-generation college professor. Even still, when she was younger, she didnt plan on becoming a professor and went into management consulting after college. But she couldnt escape the familial pull for too long.

When I participated in consulting projects, I was always intrigued by the theory behind the practices and the generalizability of companies experiences, Hu says. When I started my masters program and got involved in research projects, I found myself fascinated by doing research and disseminating knowledge. Then, I applied to doctoral programs in organizational behavior, received my Ph.D., and started my career as a business school faculty member at the University of Notre Dame in 2012.

Chia-Jung Tsay of University College London is a 2021 Best 40 Under 40 Professor. Courtesy photo

THE DOCS WITH MUSICAL CHOPS

Many of these exceptionally talented professors excel in areas outside academia. Chia-Jung Tsay, who is an associate professor at the University London College School of Management, is a trained performance pianist. Tsay decided to become a business school professor after a detour into medicine, she says. During my years in medical school, I often skipped class to spend more hours practicing piano. Tsay found Shoshana Dobrow, who was a professional bassoonist and a business school professor. Her example and guidance allowed me to understand more concretely what a dual career in academia and music could entail. I love and cite her work to this day, Tsay says.

Tsay now focuses some of her research on judgments of performance. I have found that professional musicians are able to reliably select the actual winners of live classical music competitions based on silent video recordings, but they are not able to identify the winners based on sound recordings or recordings with both video and sound, she says. This points to powerful vision-biased preferences on selection processes, even at the highest levels of performance. My co-authors and I have elaborated on the meaning of this effect across domains  including for judgments of entrepreneurial pitch competitions and group performance, and in service operations in the food industry.

David Rand of MITs Sloan School of Management is a punk rocker turned Best 40 Under 40 Business School Professor. Courtesy photo

David Rand, the Erwin H. Schell Professor of Management Science and Brain and Cognitive Sciences at MITs Sloan School of Management, is a self-described punk rocker. I took a very circuitous route to get here, and never imagined that I would wind up as a business school professor, Rand says. I started as a punk rocker, then became a computational biologist, then a behavioral economist, and then a cognitive psychologist.

Rands musical evolution is fascinating  and well-documented on his music page. It ranges from his punk/hardcore band in the early 2000s, which Rand describes as Loud noise that I used to make with my best friends to ukelele covers of the punk band Rancid while on paternity leave with his twins.

Tinglong Dai of Johns Hopkins University Carey School of Business is a 2021 Best 40 Under 40 Professor. Courtesy photo

PROFESSORS INVESTIGATING IMPACTFUL RESEARCH TOPICS

What put many professors over the edge and onto this years list was their research into impactful issues and topics. Tinglong Dai, who is an associate professor of operations management and business analytics at Johns Hopkins Carey School of Business was one of our highest-scored professors on this years list. Not surprisingly considering where Dai is a professor, much of his research revolves around healthcare.

I study healthcare operations, and my most recent research looks at how to roll out COVID-19 vaccines efficiently and equitably, Dai says. Previously, Dai had researched the role of airline transportation in organ transplantation. Dai and his coauthors found that by creating a new airline route, the number of kidneys shared across regions by 7.3%. Now Dai is also looking at the potential impact of artificial intelligence in the healthcare space.

These days, I am paying increased attention to human-AI interaction, especially how clinicians interact with AI, Dai explains. As AI applications become more powerful, one would expect clinicians to use AI more often. My research shows clinicians may avoid using AI if they worry about liability implications or how they are perceived by their peers. Nevertheless, its my conviction that AI wont replace clinicians, but in the long run, clinicians who use AI will replace those who dont.

Likewise, Northwestern Kellogg School of Managements Amanda Starc is examining potential improvements in healthcare markets. Currently, I am spending a lot of time thinking about the relationship between competition and quality in healthcare markets, she says. When product quality is difficult to observe, consumers and producers make suboptimal choices and investments. Im looking at this problem for both insurance plans and hospitals. We argue that there are huge differences in mortality rates caused by the insurance plans in which Medicare beneficiaries enroll. Unfortunately, consumers do not know how to find plan that improve their health because there is not unbiased information about plan quality. This means plans do not have incentives to improve health outcomes.

Quality incentives are important for hospitals as well. For example, hospitals that can attract highly profitable patients may invest more in quality. These hospitals want to make themselves irreplaceable in private insurance networks. We find strong evidence that hospitals located near profitable patients have higher quality.

Ashley Martin of the Stanford GSB is a Poets&Quants 2021 Best 40 Under 40 Business School Professor. Courtesy photo

TWO 40 UNDER 40 FROM OPPOSITE COASTS TEAMING UP

Meanwhile, Columbias Matz and Stanfords Ashley Martin, who also made this years list, are investigating how hiring women into leadership positions can change gender stereotypes.

The way we approach this topic is to look at the extent to which an organizations language changes as a result of hiring a female CEO or appointing more women to their board of directors, Matz says. We apply novel methods in natural language processing that allow us to capture the semantic meaning of words (e.g. woman, her or she) and see how closely the meaning of these words is related to the meaning of agentic, leadership-relevant traits that are typically associated with men but not women (e.g. decisive, determined, independent).

Matz says they have found hiring women into leadership positions shifts organizational language such that women are being associated more strongly with agentic  and therefore leadership-congruent  traits.

Whats pretty cool about this is that the intervention doesnt come with a trade-off or backlash for women who are oftentimes perceived as less likable if they display agentic behaviors, Matz continues. In our case, the association between women and agency increases the most for the positive aspects of agency (e.g. active, resilient, persistent), and they are perceived and described just as likable as before. What can we learn from this? When hiring minorities we often talk about the immediate benefits to organizations that come from increased representation. Thats amazing in and by itself. But what we show is that hiring underrepresented minorities can actually do a lot more: It can help organizations battle insidious stereotypes by changing the associations, meaning, and interpretations of what it means to be, for example, a woman, black, or homosexual.

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY IN THE BUSINESS WORLD

Saed Alizamir of Yales School of Management is a 2021 Best 40 Under 40 Business School professor. Courtesy photo

The Yale School of Managements Saed Alizamir is using methodologies from operations research to solve managerial problems between public and private interactions while pushing social impact.

More specifically, I am interested in examining how social responsibility can be promoted in the business world, particularly by incorporating the specific elements of decision-making into the analysis, Alizamir explains. My research investigates the role of public agencies (such as governmental institutions and NGOs) in enhancing the operational practices of business firms toward generating social value. Overall, the goal of my research is to inform public policy decisions in sustainability and public health domains.

Some of my recent work includes the study of subsidy incentives for renewable energies, promoting sustainable practices in agricultural supply chains, demand response programs in residential electricity markets, and managing warning mechanisms against public health crises.

Rutgers Universitys David Dwertmanns primary research goal is to produce research that impacts employees, organizations, and societies.

I study diversity and investigate how organizations can shape the social environment in which people work through organizational climate and leadership to successfully employ individuals from marginalized backgrounds, Dwertmann says. I mostly focus on groups that are increasingly important but have not received the research attention commensurate with their importance: people with disabilities (PWD) and immigrants. My research contributes to our theoretical understanding of the factors that allow for inclusion and the barriers to achieving it.

No matter what they study or how well they transfer knowledge to smart, young aspiring professionals, all of the 40-under-40 profs are academic stars in their own right and among the most promising profs of their generation.

See the next page for the list of all 40 under 40 business school professors for 2021.

Sarang Sunder of Texas Christian University is a 2021 Best 40 Under 40 Business School professor. Courtesy photo

The post Poets&Quants Best 40-Under-40 Business School Professors Of 2021 appeared first on Poets&Quants.
Verizon spent about $9 billion buying AOL and Yahoo over two years starting in 2015, hoping to jump-start a digital media business that would compete with Google and Facebook. It didnt work  those brands were already fading even then  as Google and Facebook and, increasingly, Amazon dominate the U.S. digital ad market. The year after buying Yahoo, Verizon wrote down the value of the combined operation, called Oath, by roughly the value of the $4.5 billion it had spent on Yahoo.
WARSAW (Reuters) - For Poles, the May long weekend is usually a time for grilling, socializing and drinking. But in the middle of a pandemic, thousands decided to stand in the rain to get a Johnson & Johnson jab instead.

Queues snaked around street corners in cities like Warsaw, Krakow and Wroclaw, with some lining up as early as 1 a.m., according to media reports, as the government offered the one-dose vaccine for all comers aged 36 or over.

The campaign comes as Poland has endured a third wave of the pandemic, with new cases topping 30,000 a day and almost 1,000 daily deaths.

"Hopefully, we will contribute to bringing the life back to how it used to be," said Karolina from Lodz, who came to a local vaccination centre while walking her dog.

She said one of the things that convinced her was the fact that it was a single-dose vaccine.

The health ministry did not respond to a Reuters request for information on how many vaccines were administered over the weekend. Centres will remain open until 6 p.m.

Last week Poland administrated 1.6 million doses, for a total of nearly 12 million since vaccinations began. Nearly 3 million Poles, 7,7% of the population, have been fully vaccinated.

In total, the country of 38 million has reported 2,805,756 cases and 68,105 deaths.

(Reporting by Alicja Ptak and Joanna Plucinska; Editing by Giles Elgood)
Parliament Buildings at Stormont, Belfast - Liam McBurney/PA

The Queen has said that the peace in Northern Ireland is a "credit to its people" as she marked the centenary of the creation of the province, but warned that reconciliation cannot be taken for granted.

In a warm personal message, Her Majesty, 95, recalled with "fondness" her visit to Ireland with the Duke of Edinburgh ten years ago this month, revealing that she treasures the memories and the spirit of goodwill they witnessed.

She said the peace process was a credit to the leaders who had the "vision and courage to put reconciliation before division" but that the continued peace was "a credit to its people, upon whose shoulders the future rests."

The Government of Ireland Act came into force on May 3, 1921, formalising the partition of the island and retaining six counties of the ancient province of Ulster within the UK.

The anniversary comes at a turbulent time, following the resignation last week of Arlene Foster, the leader of the Democratic Unionist Party and the province's first minister, which alongside Brexit and Nicola Sturgeons demands for a second independence referendum in Scotland, has prompted renewed questions about its governance and borders.

Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip in Bushmills village, Northern Ireland - POOL New/REUTERS

The province is also reeling from recent rioting in Loyalist areas and mounting anger over the complex Northern Ireland Protocol.

The Queen said the anniversary served as a reminder of the UK and Irelands "complex history" and provided an opportunity to "reflect on our togetherness and our diversity."

"In Northern Ireland today, there is, perhaps more than ever, a rich mix of identities, backgrounds and aspirations, and an outward-looking and optimistic mindset," she said.

"The political progress in Northern Ireland and the peace process is rightly credited to a generation of leaders who had the vision and courage to put reconciliation before division.

"But above all, the continued peace is a credit to its people, upon whose shoulders the future rests."

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Her Majesty added: "It is clear that reconciliation, equality and mutual understanding cannot be taken for granted, and will require sustained fortitude and commitment.

"During my many visits to Northern Ireland, I have seen these qualities in abundance, and look forward to seeing them again on future occasions."

The Queen said she wanted to recognise the "important contribution made by our friends and closest neighbours towards the success of Northern Ireland."

She added: "I look back with fondness on the visit Prince Philip and I paid to Ireland, ten years ago this month. I treasure my many memories, and the spirit of goodwill I saw at first hand.

"Across generations, the people of Northern Ireland are choosing to build an inclusive, prosperous, and hopeful society, strengthened by the gains of the peace process. May this be our guiding thread in the coming years.

"I send my warmest good wishes to the people of Northern Ireland."

It was signed "Elizabeth R".

Meanwhile, Boris Johnson said the UK Government would continue to showcase "all the brilliant things" that Northern Ireland contributes to the rest of the UK in a message to the country to mark its centenary.

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The Prime Minister said on Twitter: "This is a very significant national anniversary, marking the 100th year since the Government of Ireland Act came into effect and the formation of the United Kingdom as we know it today.

"Throughout 2021, in its centenary year, the Government will continue to showcase all the brilliant things Northern Ireland contributes to the rest of the UK and the world, from its world-class fintech industry and research capabilities, to its inspiring young people, and its vibrant culture of arts and sport.

"It is also important that we pause to reflect on the complex history of the last 100 years. People from all parts of Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, the United Kingdom and across the globe, will approach this anniversary in different ways, with differing perspectives.

"While this is a moment of shared reflection, it is also an important opportunity to come together to celebrate Northern Ireland and build towards a better and even brighter future for all its people."
A handout photo by San Diego Fire-Rescue Department shows part of the wreckage of a boat that capsized near Point Loma on 2 May, 2021 (EPA)

Three people were killed and dozens hospitalised on Sunday after a boat capsized just off the San Diego coast during a suspected people smuggling operation.

The vessel overturned near Point Loma and broke apart after colliding with a reef, officials said.

San Diego lifeguard services Lt Rick Romero said there were 30 people on the boat, including the three who died. Seven people were rescued from the water, 22 made it to shore on their own while one person was rescued from a cliff, he said.

Mr Romero said a total of 27 people were taken to hospitals with a wide variety of injuries including hypothermia.

The San Diego Fire-Rescue Department said the rescue operations involved multiple agencies, including Federal Fire, US Coast Guard and Park Rangers. Mr Romero said a navy staff member, who was out with his family, also jumped in the water and tried to save people.

Every indication from our perspective was this was a smuggling vessel used to smuggle migrants into the United States illegally, said Jeff Stephenson, a supervising agent with US Border Patrol.

He said the nationalities of the people involved have not yet been confirmed. Our agents are with many of them at the hospital and the man who we believe was the operator the investigation is still unfolding, he said.

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Mr Stephenson also said the origin point of the boat was not yet know, but many smuggling boats come from Mexico's Baja coastline, according to BBC News. He said there has been a 92 per cent increase in maritime apprehensions of smugglers in 2020 as compared with the previous year.

San Diego Fire-Rescue Department spokesman Jose Ysea said when he arrived on the scene there was a large debris field of splintered wood and other items in the water, according to the Associated Press.

In that area of Point Loma its very rocky. Its likely the waves just kept pounding the boat, breaking it apart, he said.

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The South Asian and Sikh communities in New York are speaking out against anti-Asian hate after an Indian man was attacked with a hammer inside a Brooklyn hotel last Monday.



Surveillance video at the Quality Inn in Brownsville captured a man hitting Sumit Ahluwalia, 32, in the head with a hammer on April 26, CBSNewYork reported.





Ahluwalia, a Sikh man who works as the operations manager of the hotel, confronted a man who wasyelling at him and the front desk staff. The victim recalled that the suspect then spits in his face three times, prompting him to move back and ask, Hey brother, what happened?



In response, the man said, Youre not my brother. Youre not the same skin. I dont like you. He then pulled out a hammer from a bucket, struck Ahluwalias head with such intensity, and fled.



Ahluwalia, who immigrated to the U.S. from India three years ago, said he believes he was targeted because of his religious attire, as he was the only one at the scene wearing a turban. The incident has left him in fear that someone might attack him again.



Now Im feeling scared somehow  Now when Im going to work, when Im walking, I have some fear, like maybe someone is coming, he said. Everyone comes to this country with new hope, but now theres something, other feeling in the mind, like why, I didnt say anything, why did this happen to me?



The Sikh community agrees with the victim that the turban he was wearing motivated the attack and wants the authorities to investigate the incident as a hate crime.



Sikhs Against Asian Hate Crimes and Stop Hate Crime held a rally and a press conference on Saturday at Smokey Park in South Richmond Hill to address the incident, PIX11 reported.



Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar, the first Punjabi woman elected to statewide office in New York, condemned the attack, noting that Sikhs are among the most targeted religious groups in the U.S.



In the past few years, hate crimes against Sikh Americans have risen by 200%, she was quoted as saying.



Japneet Singh, a community advocate, found the assault especially painful as four Sikhs recently died in the mass shooting in Indianapolis.



Ahluwalia suffered minor injuries, including internal bleeding in the head. He says his turban may have helped cushion the blow and prevented more severe injuries.



Authorities described the suspect as a medium-built, adult male with short black hair and was last seen wearing all-black attire including a jacket, pants, sneakers and a face mask.



NYPD is currently investigating the incident and has urged anyone with information to call the NYPDs Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-8477 or send messages to the NYPDTips Twitter account or NYPDCrimeStoppers.com.



Featured Image via CBS New York

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ST. PETERSBURG  The co-founder and artistic director of the St. Petersburg Ballet Conservatory faces battery and molestation charges after city police said he had an inappropriate sexual relationship with a 15-year-old student.

Servy Gallardo, 52, was arrested Monday, according to the St. Petersburg Police Department. He faces charges on four counts of lewd and lascivious battery and one count of lewd and lascivious molestation, police said. He was booked into jail Monday afternoon, records show, and remained there as of about 5 p.m. Monday. Bond was not yet listed.

Gallardo, who also serves as the conservatorys chief choreographer, founded the conservatory in 2018 along with Brian and Anna Melton, the Tampa Bay Times reported that year. Its located at 1500 58th St. S in Gulfport.

A native of Venezuela, Gallardo was a principal dancer in the National Ballet of Venezuela and the San Jose Cleveland Ballet before working a slew of teaching jobs across the U.S. beginning in the early 2000s.

Police said detectives are concerned that there could be additional victims and asked for anyone with information to come forward.

The conservatory sent a statement to the Times saying it suspended Gallardo without pay and barred him from the property. The conservatory said its board of directors is cooperating with the investigation.

To our knowledge, this behavior did not happen at the conservatory, the board said in the statement.

As the board of directors, we are deeply saddened at learning of these allegations, and we emphatically believe that allegations of this nature are and should be dealt with immediately, the board said. We take protecting children and teens seriously, and we have strived to establish policies, procedures, and protocols to keep young people safe. We were blindsided and heartbroken by these allegations.
(Correct timing in paragraph 5 to last month, not last week)

By Ben Blanchard and Stanley Widianto

TAIPEI/JAKARTA (Reuters) -Taiwan became the latest place to ban arrivals from coronavirus-stricken India on Monday, as it moves to prevent new infections, with more nations reporting cases of a variant first identified in the subcontinent.

The variant, B.1.617, has reached at least 17 countries, from Britain and Iran to Switzerland, sparking global concern and spurring several to close their borders to people travelling from India.

Scientists are studying whether the variant, resulting from two key mutations to the outer "spike" portion of the virus that attaches to human cells, is driving an unexpected explosion in cases in India.

The south Asian nation's tally of infections was just shy of 20 million on Monday, after it reported more than 300,000 new coronavirus cases for a 12th straight day.

Last month, Indonesia, which has been battling one of Asia's worst COVID-19 outbreaks, stopped issuing visas for foreigners who had been in India in the previous 14 days.

"We need to contain these cases, while there are still only a few of them," said Indonesian health minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin, after the first two cases of the variant reported in the southeast Asian nation on Monday.

Neighbouring Malaysia said on Sunday it had detected its first case of the Indian variant, days after imposing a ban on flights from the country.

On Monday, Taiwan said that except for its citizens, all those who had been in India in the 14 days prior would be barred from entering its territory, while returning Taiwanese face 14 days in centralised quarantine facilities. [L1N2MQ08Z]

The move comes after Australia took a more drastic measure last week, banning the entry of residents and citizens who have been in India in the previous two weeks, threatening fines and jail for any who disobey.

It was the first time Australia has branded citizens' return home a criminal offence.

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Australia defended the ban, which took effect on Monday, saying it had a "strong, clear and absolute" belief that the move was legal.

"It's a high-risk situation in India," Health Minister Greg Hunt told a televised news briefing.

"The strong, clear view is that there has been no doubt in any of the Commonwealth advice about this."

Philippine officials warned that they could not rule out the possibility of an India-like COVID-19 crisis, saying last week's decision to ban entry of arrivals from India aimed to keep it from becoming a reality.

"It is possible for it to happen here if we dont intensify responses," Health Undersecretary Rosario Vergeire said.

"When we look at what is happening in India, it is happening across the globe... Whats different is the intensity of it."

The World Health Organisation designates the variant as being "of interest", suggesting it may have mutations that would make the virus more transmissible, cause more severe disease or evade vaccine immunity.

Other strains with known risks, such as those first detected in the Brazil, Britain and South Africa, have been categorised as "variants of concern," a higher threat level.

(Reporting by Ben Blanchard in Taipei, Stanley Widianto in Jakarta and Neil Jerome Morales in Manila; Writing by Miyoung Kim; Editing by Mark Heinrich and Clarence Fernandez)
Tajikistan on Monday said border clashes last week with Kyrgystan had left several dead on its side in the first admission of Tajik fatalities.

Fighting between the two Central Asian nations erupted last Thursday leaving dozens dead and thousands displaced, but a ceasefire brokered the same day saw a gradual halt to fighting that was holding on Monday.

The prosecutor general's office in Tajikistan, a closed authoritarian state that has largely remained silent since fighting broke out, said it had opened criminal probes against members of the Kyrgyzstan military and armed civilians over the violence.

It said some 200 Kyrgyz army servicemen and civilians, who began throwing stones, escalated unrest that resulted in an exchange of gunfire.

"As a result of the armed attack, several people were killed and dozens of others injured, and a large number of homes, border installations, other sites, and infrastructure facilities were destroyed," a statement said, without specifying the number killed.

Clashes between communities over land and water along the long-contested frontier occur regularly, with border guards often getting involved.

But the violence that erupted on Thursday in the Batken region was by far the most serious during the ex-Soviet nations' 30 years of independence and sparked fears of a wider escalation.

Kyrgyzstan announced Monday the death of a four-year-old boy in the fighting bringing its casualties to 36 with another 183 injured.

Both Russia, which maintains military bases in the country, and neighbouring Uzbekistan said they were prepared to mediate.

kd-tol/jbr/ach
Like other purported COVID-19 treatments that have not gotten government approval, ivermectin has been embroiled in controversy. One of its leading proponents, Dr. Pierre Kory, a pulmonary and critical care specialist, testified in favor of the drug before a U.S. Senate committee last year, but he said YouTube later took down the video in which he made his statement, calling it medical misinformation.
The event, whose lineup included Jennifer Lopez, Eddie Vetter and H.E.R., was a way to honor and celebrate workers for their efforts in the past year.

Video Transcript

JENNIFER LOPEZ: You guys know this one. We can sing this one together. Are you ready?

- Dancing the night away, J.Lo style, amid a crowd of concertgoers. Thousands filled SOFI Stadium in Inglewood for Global Citizen's Vax Live, a concert aimed at reuniting the world post pandemic.

- I'm excited to just see live performances, and be around people, and the ambiance, and just have fun.

[MUSIC PLAYING]

- (SINGING): Take your [INAUDIBLE].

- With performances from Eddie Vetter to H.E.R., the star-studded event hosted, by Selena Gomez, is a way to celebrate our health care workers in what was, perhaps, their most difficult year.

GESSICA DAVLA: At that time, I actually went out to New York to help with the COVID crisis there for three months. And when I came back, I started working out of Riverside County, and helping with the COVID crisis in the ICU.

TRISHA LLANES: Just for them giving back to us, it's very heartfelt. And we're very appreciative.

- With cameos from Hollywood celebrities, to English royalty, and other world leaders, all lending their voices to increase public confidence in taking the COVID-19 vaccine.

JEFF SOSNOW: Hopefully it'll encourage other people to get vaccinated so that they can go enjoy concerts.

- This, the first large-scale music event with a COVID-compliant audience. Everyone in attendance required to be fully vaccinated and masked up. Global Citizen is calling on the private sector to donate money for more doses, and make them readily available to everyone around the world, including high-risk communities.

JEFF SOSNOW: We've seen our way through this, but it's not all done. We just can turn on the TV and look at other parts of the world where there's a lot of challenges still.

[MUSIC - JENNIFER LOPEZ, "SWEET CAROLINE"]

JENNIFER LOPEZ: (SINGING) Hands, touching hands.
- By GF Value





The stock of Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri AS (NYSE:TKC, 30-year Financials) is believed to be modestly undervalued, according to GuruFocus Value calculation. GuruFocus Value is GuruFocus' estimate of the fair value at which the stock should be traded. It is calculated based on the historical multiples that the stock has traded at, the past business growth and analyst estimates of future business performance. If the price of a stock is significantly above the GF Value Line, it is overvalued and its future return is likely to be poor. On the other hand, if it is significantly below the GF Value Line, its future return will likely be higher. At its current price of $4.51 per share and the market cap of $3.9 billion, Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri AS stock is estimated to be modestly undervalued. GF Value for Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri AS is shown in the chart below.





Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri AS Stock Shows Every Sign Of Being Modestly Undervalued

Because Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri AS is relatively undervalued, the long-term return of its stock is likely to be higher than its business growth, which averaged 18.4% over the past five years.

Link: These companies may deliever higher future returns at reduced risk.

Investing in companies with poor financial strength has a higher risk of permanent loss of capital. Thus, it is important to carefully review the financial strength of a company before deciding whether to buy its stock. Looking at the cash-to-debt ratio and interest coverage is a great starting point for understanding the financial strength of a company. Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri AS has a cash-to-debt ratio of 0.58, which is in the middle range of the companies in Telecommunication Services industry. GuruFocus ranks the overall financial strength of Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri AS at 5 out of 10, which indicates that the financial strength of Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri AS is fair. This is the debt and cash of Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri AS over the past years:

Story continues

Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri AS Stock Shows Every Sign Of Being Modestly Undervalued

It poses less risk to invest in profitable companies, especially those that have demonstrated consistent profitability over the long term. A company with high profit margins is also typically a safer investment than one with low profit margins. Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri AS has been profitable 10 over the past 10 years. Over the past twelve months, the company had a revenue of $3.5 billion and earnings of $0.585 a share. Its operating margin is 22.83%, which ranks better than 85% of the companies in Telecommunication Services industry. Overall, GuruFocus ranks the profitability of Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri AS at 8 out of 10, which indicates strong profitability. This is the revenue and net income of Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri AS over the past years:

Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri AS Stock Shows Every Sign Of Being Modestly Undervalued

Growth is probably the most important factor in the valuation of a company. GuruFocus research has found that growth is closely correlated with the long term stock performance of a company. A faster growing company creates more value for shareholders, especially if the growth is profitable. The 3-year average annual revenue growth of Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri AS is 18.4%, which ranks better than 89% of the companies in Telecommunication Services industry. The 3-year average EBITDA growth rate is 28.5%, which ranks better than 84% of the companies in Telecommunication Services industry.

One can also evaluate a company's profitability by comparing its return on invested capital (ROIC) to its weighted average cost of capital (WACC). Return on invested capital (ROIC) measures how well a company generates cash flow relative to the capital it has invested in its business. The weighted average cost of capital (WACC) is the rate that a company is expected to pay on average to all its security holders to finance its assets. If the return on invested capital exceeds the weighted average cost of capital, the company is likely creating value for its shareholders. During the past 12 months, Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri AS's ROIC is 17.58 while its WACC came in at 5.92. The historical ROIC vs WACC comparison of Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri AS is shown below:

Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri AS Stock Shows Every Sign Of Being Modestly Undervalued

To conclude, the stock of Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri AS (NYSE:TKC, 30-year Financials) is estimated to be modestly undervalued. The company's financial condition is fair and its profitability is strong. Its growth ranks better than 84% of the companies in Telecommunication Services industry. To learn more about Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri AS stock, you can check out its 30-year Financials here.

To find out the high quality companies that may deliever above average returns, please check out GuruFocus High Quality Low Capex Screener.

This article first appeared on GuruFocus.


BOISE, Idaho (AP)  A U.S. appeals court on Monday gave little indication of how it might rule on the constitutionality of the first law in the nation banning transgender women and girls from playing on womens sports teams.

The three-judge panel of the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals heard virtual arguments in the case that could have far-ranging consequences as more states follow conservative Idahos lead.

Idaho passed its law last year, and more than 20 states have considered such proposals this year. Bans have been enacted in Alabama, Arkansas, Mississippi, Tennessee and West Virginia. Florida lawmakers passed a bill, and South Dakotas governor issued an executive order.

On Monday, conservative Republican lawmakers in Kansas failed to override Democratic Gov. Laura Kellys veto of a proposed ban on transgender athletes in girls and womens school sports.

The judges on Monday focused at one point on whether the case was still relevant because one of the plaintiffs, Lindsay Hecox, had dropped out of Boise State University after failing to qualify for the women's cross country team. Her attorney said Hecox planned to return in the fall and try out for the team again.

Judges also questioned whether the other plaintiff, who feared invasive tests to prove her gender that are outlined in the law, had standing to sue because she is not transgender and her gender identity had not been challenged.

It's possible the court could rule the case is no longer relevant and dismiss it without ruling on its merits.

Roger Brooks, an attorney with a Christian conservative group defending the Idaho law, said he hoped that would not happen because the case needed a definitive ruling.

This is a situation that is live and is going to be ongoing, he said at a news conference after the arguments.

Supporters say such laws are needed because transgender female athletes have physical advantages. Opponents say the laws are discriminatory and, in Idaho, an invasion of privacy because of tests required should an athletes gender be challenged.

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Lawmakers in Idaho also have argued that allowing transgender athletes on girls and womens teams would negate nearly 50 years of progress women have made since the 1972 federal legislation credited with opening up sports to female athletes.

But those opposed to the ban have cited the same Title IX federal civil rights law that prohibits sex-based discrimination.

Ultimately, this is (an Idaho) law that harms all women and girls, said Chase Strangio, an attorney with the American Civil Liberties Union, which is seeking to stop the law from taking effect.

The law prohibits transgender students who identify as female from playing on female teams sponsored by public schools, colleges and universities.

It does not apply to mens teams, which prompted one judge to ask whether discrimination existed.

They're not barred, Judge Andrew Kleinfeld said. Anybody can play on the boys' team whether they're transgender or not.

The ACLU and Legal Voice womens rights group sued last year on behalf of Hecox and an unnamed Boise-area high school student who is cisgender, meaning her gender identity matches the one she was assigned at birth.

The lawsuit contends the law violates the 14th Amendments Equal Protection Clause because it is discriminatory and the Fourth Amendments protections against invasion of privacy because of tests required should an athletes gender be challenged.

A federal judge in Idaho temporarily blocked the law from taking effect last year. Idaho and the conservative Christian group that intervened, Alliance Defending Freedom, appealed.

The group is representing Madison Kenyon of Johnston, Colorado, and Mary Marshall of Twin Falls, Idaho, who run track and cross country on scholarships at Idaho State University and are concerned they could have to unfairly compete against transgender athletes.

The appeals court didn't indicate when it might issue a ruling.

___

This story has been corrected to show that the court panel met virtually, not in San Francisco.
The good news: Air travel is picking up. Sunday, the Transportation Security Administration screened more than 1.6 million passengers, the most since March 12, 2020.

The bad news: Long wait times at security checkpoints may be coming back, too.

At times during spring break, the lines to go through the security checkpoint stretched into the food court at Orlando International Airport and across the skybridge and into the parking garage at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA).

TSA is in the process of hiring 6,000 screening officers before the predicted summer travel surge. That should help move things along.

So could a pilot program that debuts Tuesday at the Seattle airport.

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The program, called SEA Spot Saver, seeks to streamline wait times by offering digital reservations, or virtual queuing, for passengers to go through the TSA screening process.

The program will operate daily through Aug. 31 from 4 a.m. to noon (the airports peak travel period) at two checkpoints (2 and 5) and offer expedited screening to general screening passengers for free. No membership or account sign-up is required. (Expedited, nonreserved screening remains available to passengers enrolled in Trusted Traveler programs such as TSA PreCheck and CLEAR).

SEA Spot Saver will test two options.

The SEA Spot Saver program aims to save travelers wait time in the TSA line.

Alaska Airlines passengers can sign up for a security checkpoint appointment online up to 24 hours before their scheduled departure time or once they are in the terminal.

Passengers will receive a QR code to use at the checkpoint at their reservation time. That option is offered by Pangiam and powered by WhyLine and Copenhagen Optimization.

There is a separate line at Checkpoint 5 for Alaska passengers. Groups traveling together can enter "party size" on the reservation form, which can save a spot for a group of up to 12 people.

We are confident this pilot program will help reduce queue crowding, enable social distancing and provide a smoother and safer experience for travelers at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, said Daniel Tanciar, chief innovation officer at Pangiam.

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The second option, operated by VHT, is for passengers flying on Delta Air Lines and all other carriers. This option allows passengers to book a checkpoint appointment time by scanning a QR code once they are in the terminal.

At Checkpoint 2, Delta and other passengers will find signage with staff checking appointment times. Up to 10 people are allowed per reservation.

Both options give passengers a 15-minute window for their appointment times.

When it is your time for an appointment, the app notifies you to go to your assigned checkpoint and "just look for the SEA Spot Saver logo. "

"Virtual queueing showcases our belief in putting customers in control of their experiences, said Matt DiMaria, CEO of VHT. While it offers passengers a sense of comfort and stability, it also grants airports the power of predictability and efficiency. It's truly a win-win for everyone."

Seattle will be the only airport in the USA testing a virtual queuing system as a solution for crowded general screening lines.

Travelers faced long lines at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport TSA checkpoints as travel ticked up around spring break.

Montreal-Trudeau International Airports (YUL) has offered screening reservations since 2014 through SecureXpress, but that program is on hold during the pandemic.

The pandemic has left very few passengers coming and going through YUL, said spokeswoman Anne-Sophie Hamel. As such, there is no line-up to get through security, and the service is simply not useful right now.

From October 2020 through April 30 Denver International Airport piloted the VeriFLY program, which offered timed checkpoint appointments but required passengers to file health data information before arrival and get temperature checks on site.

Port of Seattle officials said that after the pilot program is completed late this summer, they will evaluate usage, customer feedback and line efficiency  and, if successful, launch a broader program.

These are the innovations and ideas that we love, to make our guest experiences more convenient and stress-free, especially as more people get back flying again, said Charu Jain, Alaska Airlines senior vice president of merchandising and innovation. With very little effort, guests can lean on technology to get them through the security process quicker.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Sea-Tac airport checkpoint program: Reserve a time for TSA screening
Berkshire Hathaway (BRK-A, BRK-B) Vice Chairmen Gregory Abel and Ajit Jain appeared alongside 90-year-old CEO Warren Buffett and his 97-year-old right-hand man, Charlie Munger, at the company's annual meeting on Saturday, likely fueling speculation over who will eventually lead the legendary conglomerate.

On Monday morning, CNBC's Becky Quick reported that when Buffett is no longer able to lead the company, the top job will in fact go to 59-year-old Abel, vice chairman of non-insurance operations.

The directors are in agreement that if something were to happen to me tonight it would be Greg whod take over tomorrow morning, Buffett told CNBC, while also praising Jain, who's vice chairman in charge of all of the company's insurance operations, Berkshire's core business.

At last year's shareholder meeting, Abel replaced Munger on stage alongside Buffett. Though the pandemic prompted the swap, it nevertheless caught the eye of some observers who wondered whether the presence of Abel made him a front-runner to become CEO.

Gregory Abel at the Berkshire Hathaway Annual Meeting.

In 2018, Buffett added senior executives Abel and Jain to its Board of Directors, both with the title of vice chairman, fueling speculation that they were first in line to succeed him. Abel rose through the companys energy division, while 69-year-old Jain has overseen the companys insurance operations.

[See also: Warren Buffett: Chevron's not an 'evil company' in the least']

Abel also serves as Berkshire Hathaway Energy Chairman and has served on the board of directors since 2000. He was CEO of Berkshire Hathaway Energy from 2008-2018 and initially joined the company in 1992, bringing management experience in the energy industry. A native Canadian, he's a graduate of the University of Alberta and was once dubbed "the Oracle of Edmonton" by the Globe and Mail.

CNBC noted that one comment Munger made during the meeting hinted that it would be Abel and not Jain who would take the top spot: Greg will keep the culture," Munger said.

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For more than five decades, Buffett has run Berkshire Hathaway, which wholly owns over 60 companies, including Geico and Dairy Queen, and holds minority stakes in JPMorgan Chase (JPM) and Coca-Cola (KO), among others.

[See also: Charlie Munger: 'Bernie Sanders has basically won' on income inequality]

The presence of Abel and Jain offered a symbolic look toward the company's future and a chance for shareholders to interact with the next generation of leaders, "Buffettologists" told Yahoo Finance before the meeting. Plus, it provided a preview of what Woodstock for Capitalism might look like after it loses its headliner, they said.

"Opening up leadership to four people as opposed to two  thats a pretty visible commitment to presenting a strategy of succession," says Laura Rittenhouse, corporate consultant and author of Buffett's Bites: The Essential Investor's Guide to Warren Buffett's Shareholder Letters.

"Ajit and Greg are the key potential successors at Berkshire," she adds. "That theyre going to share the stage with Warren and Charlie reveals Warrens commitment to ensuring a smooth succession. It's a way for shareholders to get to know more about these two potential successors."

Of course, Abel will not likely achieve the fame of Buffett, who has become an international icon and the human embodiment of humane capitalism for some.

"Theyre not going to be another Warren Buffett and in some ways it's very difficult to succeed him," said Robert Miles, longtime Berkshire Hathaway shareholder and author of "The Warren Buffett CEO," before the meeting. "It's kind of like wearing Babe Ruth's number and his uniform. Youre not going to be Babe Ruth  youre just going to be the best you are."

Berkshire Hathaway replay

Read more on Warren Buffett and Berkshire Hathaway:
The parent company of WFSB-TV, Channel 3 plans to sell the Rocky Hill television station and 16 others it owns as it exits the broadcast news business to focus on its magazine and digital properties.

Atlanta-based Gray Television, Inc. has agreed to purchase WFSB and the other stations from the Meredith Corporation in a deal valued at $2.7 billion.

The television station portfolios, company cultures, and commitments to localism of Gray and Meredith are highly complementary, Gray Executive Chairman and CEO Hilton H. Howell said, in a news release. We are very excited to acquire Merediths excellent television stations, and we look forward to welcoming its employees into the Gray family.

Headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, Meredith has owned WFSB since 1997. Its television properties are scattered across the country and include WGGB-TV in Springfield as well as operations in Alabama, Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Missouri, Nevada, Oregon, South Carolina and Tennessee.

Its portfolio of magazines includes Better Homes and Gardens, People, Entertainment Weekly, Shape and Travel + Leisure.

According to the terms of the deal, Meredith will spin off its magazines and digital properties into a new standalone publicly traded company.

We expect the transaction to unlock meaningful shareholder value as it advances all of the companys financial priorities: reducing net debt, improving financial flexibility, allocating capital to fast-growing digital and consumer opportunities, and providing returns to shareholders, Meredith Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Tom Harty said, in a news release. As a more focused company with an enhanced balance sheet and cash-generating media assets, we will further advance our position as a media leader with trusted brands, a digital business of scale, and unparalleled reach to women.

Like many other businesses, Meredith saw its revenue decline during the COVID-19 pandemic as advertising dollars dropped off; WFSB-TV made cuts to staff in September as part of companywide cost reductions.

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The acquisitions would make Grey the second-largest television broadcast group in the country serving 113 local markets and reaching approximately 36% of U.S. television households.

The proposed sale of WFSB follows the 2019 sale of WTIC-TV, Fox 61 and 18 other stations to Virginia-based Tegna Inc.

Fox 61 had previously been owned by Tribune Media, but the station was required to be sold off because of overlap in the Hartford-New Haven market when Texas-based Nexstar Media Group (owner of WTNH-TV) acquired all of Tribunes television properties in a $4.1 billion deal.

Russell Blair can be reached at rblair@courant.com.
Only Republicans get criticized

Another asinine cartoon from Kevin Siers on Tuesday. (9A) Are there no anti-vaxxers among Democrats? This just in: Donald Trump is no longer president.

- Burt Ballentine, Keller

Thats some kind of goodbye

George Sherman, the departing CEO of GameStop is getting a $173 million-plus severance package. (April 27, 6A, GameStops departing CEO to get over $173 million) Sherman, hired only two years ago, oversaw the closing of almost 1,000 retail stores, with full-time employment dropping from 22,000 to 12,000. Now, GameStops board rewards this guy for incompetence at the highest level.

You couldnt redirect some of those funds to rehiring employees or reopening stores? How about raises for the remaining employees? The board needs to straighten out its priorities.

- Lynn Miller, North Richland Hills

The Vietnamese are captives

April 30 marked the 46th anniversary of the fall of South Vietnam to the communist North Vietnamese. It represents a black mark on American treatment of our allies. For those who labor under the misconception that the war was a historic mistake and political blunder, please be reminded that more than 98 million people remain imprisoned under the communist boot.

- Rick Schwab, Fort Worth

Treat tech companies like gas, water

Big tech companies are in the news lately over charges of censorship. Big tech is a public information utility, like water and electric companies, and should be treated the same. Public utilities must offer service to all customers. Similarly, Facebook, Google, Twitter and Amazons book division should not be able, by law, to refuse service to any customer.

Anything a customer wants to say should be allowed at all times with no censorship. I hope the government will realize this and start to regulate Big Tech before censorship becomes permanent.

- Curt Lampkin, Azle

Texas ballet was left out here

I was disappointed that the Star-Telegram ran the lengthy Washington Post story Dance companies pirouette to streaming services last Tuesday (8B), with not even a brief mention of a Texas company such as our own Texas Ballet Theater. This world-class professional company has taken choreography to the digital realm.

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- Paige Hendricks Russey, Fort Worth

A new wave of pandemic homelessness

The COVID-19 pandemic has left millions of Americans with little or no income. Many Texans who never thought they would experience homelessness lost their homes last year. Anyone doing nonprofit work serving unhoused individuals would tell you that their clientele has grown exponentially since last summer.

We must come together and tell our representatives that state-backed detailed data collection is necessary to reduce homelessness. Lets work together to understand the problem and ensure our efforts to help are effective.

- Emily Daniel, Denton

Hey you: Take care of you

With every media outlet constantly reminding us that the world is doomed, its important that we take a step back and realize we need to take care of ourselves before trying to tackle anything larger. Please take a moment to do whatever makes you happy, because at the end of the day, nobody knows whats best for us except ourselves.

- Marcos Ochoa, Denton

I think the jurys hand was forced

Former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin was found guilty of murder and manslaughter in the killing of George Floyd. It appears that the finding was correct. But it came with a national sigh of relief.

More than 3,000 National Guard members, along with local and state authorities, were in Minneapolis. Some people have suggested that the jury felt responsible to avoid mob violence and destruction.

The trial seems to have reached the right result, but has justice been served when extraneous circumstances coerce a jury to reach a particular verdict?

- Don Trott, Granbury
The Delmar College of Hair and Esthetics in Alberta, Canada, welcomed a nontraditional student last week  a 79-year-old man who asked for hair and makeup lessons in order to help his wife of 50 years.

The man, who asked to remain anonymous, told the beauty school staff that his wife is losing her eyesight and keeps burning herself with a curling iron. He wanted to start doing her hair, but didn't know where to begin  and was hoping they could give him some tips and tricks. Over the course of an hour, a student used a mannequin to show the man how to use a curling iron, as well as how to apply mascara.

Director Carrie Hannah told SWNS that during the lesson, he pulled pictures of his wife out of his wallet and talked about how "beautiful she has always been and how talented she was with skill set of typing over 100 words a minute when she was working." It was "very brave" of him to come in and ask for help, Hannah said, and the team was "touched by his devotion."

The man has since returned to the school with his wife to thank everyone, and Hannah said the couple is "impressed with his new professional skills, and her hair is looking great."

More stories from theweek.com

5 brutally funny cartoons about Giuliani's legal woes

CNN's Don Lemon and Chris Cuomo tensely bicker over Cuomo's on-air treatment of Rick Santorum

Europe is back in recession. It's not just the virus.


Right now the metric that is holding the state back is the number of people hospitalized with COVID-19, Arnold said. Although not significant yet, we have been seeing a recent increase in deaths. We know that hospitalizations and deaths are lagging indicators and are likely a reflection of the recent increase in cases. Fortunately, we are seeing the number of new cases decrease.
Andrew Brown Jr.'s son Khalil Ferebee, speaks during the funeral for his father Brown Jr., Monday, May 3, 2021, at Fountain of Life Church in Elizabeth City, N.C. Brown was fatally shot by Pasquotank County Sheriff deputies trying to serve a search warrant. Attorney Ben Crump, is seen at right. AP Photo/Gerry Broome

Family and loved ones gathered for the funeral of Andrew Brown Jr. in North Carolina on Monday.

Brown's sons, Khalil and Jha'rod, expressed their love for their father during the service.

Daunte Wright, Eric Garner, and George Floyd's family members were also in attendance.

Visit Insider's homepage for more stories.

Family and loved ones gathered in honor of Andrew Brown Jr. at a funeral service at the Fountain of Life church in Elizabeth City, North Carolina, on Monday.

Brown Jr. was fatally shot by a Pasquotank sheriff deputy carrying out a search warrant on April 21. The 42-year-old was trying to flee the deputies when he was shot several times. An independent autopsy his family released revealed that Brown Jr. died from a gunshot wound in the back of his head.

His sons, wearing white suits, expressed their love for their father during the service.

"He would've loved this. I just wish he was here with us," Khalil Ferebee said. "As much as I'm going to wish and wish, wish all day, it's not going to happen."

Brown Jr.'s other son Jha'rod Ferebee called his father his best friend.

"We couldn't stay away from each other. I remember growing up, couldn't nobody tell me nothing wrong with my daddy," he said.

Brown Jr.'s death came the day after Derek Chauvin was found guilty for murdering George Floyd in Minnesota. During the funeral, Ben Crump, one of the lawyers representing the family said, "we could barely celebrate."

The killing sparked protests in Elizabeth City as demonstrators demand transparency from law enforcement and to release body camera footage of the incident. The family's legal team previously said they only viewed 20 seconds of the video.

At the funeral, Crump called for justice and for the video to be released.

The casket of Andrew Brown Jr. is placed in the church ahead of his funeral, Monday, May 3, 2021, at Fountain of Life Church. AP Photo/Gerry Broome

"We are here to make this plea for justice because Andrew was killed unjustifiably as many Black men in America have been killed ... shot in the back, shot going away from the police," Crump said. "And because Andrew cannot make the plea for justice, it is up to us to make the plea for justice."

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Reverend Al Sharpton delivered the eulogy. He called Brown Jr.'s death a "sign of the times," adding that "this must stop" and that "enough is enough."

"The challenge of these times is how we are going to deal with policing in America," Sharpton said.

Among the attendees were family members of Daunte Wright, George Floyd, and Eric Garner - all Black men who were killed by law enforcement. Floyd's sister and brother took to the podium to give remarks to the family.

"I said I was not going to attend another funeral after my brother. I feel the pain that this family is feeling. No matter the way it went, it was wrong," Bridgett Floyd said.

"You're part of us, man," Terrance Floyd told Brown's family. "I just want to let y'all know that we're there for y'all. We're connected."

Eric Garner's mother, Gwen Carr, echoed those sentiments: "I want to say to each and every one of you. I am with you. I know your pain. You will always have a friend in me."

Read the original article on Insider
May 3YWCA  Hamilton has decided how to use the $1 million grant it won in December from billionaire MacKenzie Scott: It will hire someone to lead a formal racial-justice program.

"Our No. 1 priority this year is declaring racism a public-health crisis," said Wendy Waters-Connell, CEO of YWCA Hamilton. "We'd like to have it declared by government, and to have businesses embrace it, agencies embrace it, and for all of us to work arm-in-arm to develop resources and policies to reduce disparities."

The large grant came from Scott, ex-wife of Jeff Bezos, the world's wealthiest man who built most of his fortune through Amazon. She has been distributing billions of dollars to hundreds of charities, particularly those that help women and minorities.

In other news, the YWCA next week breaks ground on its $11 million-plus, 50,000-square-foot complex of offices and 45 apartments at 1570 Grand Blvd. that will replace its smaller downtown location.

Officials hope the complex will open next year.

Concerning efforts to have racism declared a public-health crisis, Waters-Connell said about local governments: "I've had some conversations informally  nothing formal yet."

That won't happen until after a new staffer is hired, "because we want to make sure it gets deployed in an organized fashion," she said. A job description is being created for that position and will be posted in about two weeks.

The YWCA will tap into some of the grant's $1 million principal in the early years and, later, money the organization has invested with the Hamilton Community Foundation will be used to fund that as an ongoing position.

"I think that was a great decision by the board," Waters-Connell said.

YWCA Hamilton was founded in 1900, and "eliminating racism has been part of the YWCA's work since its inception, here locally as well as nationally," she said. "We're the oldest organization at the intersection of gender and race, around civil rights work."

Story continues

The employee "can interact and intersect with all the other good work that's happening in our community to really leverage every bit of effort that's happening to try to reduce racial disparities in our community," Waters-Connell said.

In a related matter, the Greater Hamilton Chamber of Commerce, the YMCA and Booker T. Washington Community Center this week hosted a gathering of about 30 residents and several Hamilton banks at the community center for entrepreneurs and would-be business owners about opportunities to take out loans, create free-of-charge business plans and other assistance that minorities often find difficult to obtain. The program was especially designed for residents of Hamilton's impoverished Second- and Fourth Ward neighborhoods, also known as Riverview and Jefferson, respectively.

New YWCA campus

The YWCA also closed on a low-income housing tax credit grant a couple of weeks ago, and a virtual ground-breaking video will be released. Work on the site will start then.

The apartments "will all be one-bedroom, fully-equipped-kitchen apartments, and that's what's needed in the future for those who are chronically homeless and have disabilities, Waters-Connell said previously.

The need for such services has grown in Butler County in recent years.
WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP)  New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern took a tougher stance on China's human rights record Monday by saying it was getting harder to reconcile differences as China's role in the world grows.

While Ardern's language remained moderate when compared with that of many other leaders, it still marked a significant shift for a country which relies on China as its largest trading partner. Ardern in past speeches has often avoided direct criticism of China.

New Zealand has been trying to strike the right tone on China in recent weeks after finding itself on the defensive with its Five Eyes security allies by resisting speaking out in unison with them against China on certain human rights issues.

New Zealand Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta caused a diplomatic stir last month when she discussed her reluctance to expand the role of the Five Eyes to include joint positions on human rights. The alliance among New Zealand, the U.S., the U.K, Australia and Canada has its origins in World War II cooperation.

In her speech to the China Business Summit in Auckland on Monday, Ardern said New Zealand has raised grave concerns with China on human rights issues, including the situation of Uyghurs in the Xinjiang region and people who live in Hong Kong.

And it will not have escaped the attention of anyone here that as Chinas role in the world grows and changes, the differences between our systems  and the interests and values that shape those systems  are becoming harder to reconcile, Ardern told the audience.

Stephen Noakes, the director of the China Studies Centre at the University of Auckland, said he wouldn't have expected to hear such language from New Zealand even a couple of years ago. He said some of it sounded like a wink to the Five Eyes to let them know that although New Zealand might have economic dependencies on China, it wasn't being soft.

Noakes said that because China's relationships with both Australia and Canada have deteriorated so rapidly in the last few years, it has made New Zealand's rosier relationship stick out like a sore thumb.

Story continues

Still, Noakes said, he didn't expect the change in New Zealand's rhetoric to have any negative impact on its trade with China. And he said New Zealand's relatively moderate stance could make it a useful go-between in the future between China and other Five Eyes members.

New Zealand has stopped short of calling the Uyghur abuses genocide, language that the U.S. and some other countries have used.

New Zealand's cultural and economic ties to China are particularly strong among the Five Eyes allies. New Zealand was the first developed nation to sign a free trade deal with China in 2008, leading to a boom in exports of New Zealand milk powder and other products. China now buys twice as much from New Zealand as New Zealand's next biggest market, Australia.
WELLINGTON (Reuters) - New Zealand will start quarantine free travel with Cook Islands on May 17, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said at a press conference on Monday.

"Two way quarantine-free travel is a significant step in both countries' COVID-19 recovery, and a direct result of both New Zealand and the Cook Islands' successful response to the pandemic," Ardern said at a news conference.

A one-way quarantine-free travel from the Cook Islands to New Zealand has been possible since January. Last month New Zealand and Australia began a similar testing and quarantine-free travel.

(Reporting by Praveen Menon; Editing by Himani Sarkar)
Listening to the patients heart, she asked him if he had a history of atrial fibrillation, an abnormal heart rhythm. When he responded he hadnt had it in the past, she recommended to her superiors that he be transferred to a cardiac unit for further assessment.

If the patient had gone home as scheduled and hadnt received further treatment, it couldve led to a heart attack or death, according to Alison Hartman, Centras vice president of quality and safety.

She said the award serves as recognition for front-line health care workers who use skill and safety behaviors in their day-to-day work.

This award highlights the important role that each of our frontline caregivers play in keeping our patients and staff safe from harm, she wrote. It is everyone, no matter the position they are in, working together that creates a safe healthcare environment.

Chas Murray, Millers supervisor, said shes a dedicated nurse with a questioning attitude and isnt afraid to challenge if she feels something isnt right.

There are many good catches that happen daily that dont get attention brought to them, so when this award is given its like saying thank you [to] every person doing good catches, he wrote.
Mobility data compiled by Carnegie Mellon University researchers showed bar visits across the state were up nearly 19% in the past week.

In February, the University of Virginia had 278 cases linked to outbreaks that have since closed, according to VDH data.

On Friday, four universities had outbreaks in progress with at least 111 infections and 8, including Virginia State University, VCU and University of Richmond, are pending closure.

"We know that kids not having access to school has had really significant impacts on their lives," Avula said. "I think there are ways that we've got to do a better job of helping the public understand 'Given where we are with vaccinations, what are the risks now and what are we giving up to start to take steps back toward normalcy?'"

The 2 to 11 age group is not anticipated to have a vaccine available for them until 2022. Anyone under 18 requires parental consent to get a dose.
After tracing the source of Dettloffs seizures, Dr. Aviva Abosch, a neurosurgeon at Nebraska Medicine, used a laser to heat and destroy the structure, a process known as laser ablation.

Dettloff now has been free of seizures since the ablation procedure more than a year ago, said Vannicea (pronounced Vanessa) Bigelow, his significant other. He has been able to stop taking one of three medications (eliminating its side effects) and is working to reduce and eliminate another. With no seizures, Dettloff began driving again last summer, allowing him to run his own errands and regain independence.

We are so glad we decided to go through (with) the surgery, Bigelow said. They give you all the things that could happen with the surgery  but we knew this would be our only option; otherwise, the seizures would just continue. Its been the biggest, best, greatest thing ever for him.

Bigelow said she and Dettloff want others  particularly children, who could benefit from finding answers sooner  to know that these new technologies are available and that they can get them without leaving the state.
Meat processors would benefit from the growing market and farmers would benefit, too, Ingels said, because generally its more profitable for farmers to sell directly to consumers than to a slaughterhouse.

A truckload of 180 hogs could bring $200 apiece, he said, but if youre selling a whole or half hog, a farmer may be able to increase his price 10, 20, 30 percent. If a farmer can brand his or her meat  another goal of his bill  they may be able to increase the value of that animal by 50, 70 maybe 100 percent when its sold by the piece.

Even then, Russell said, the consumer generally is getting a better value than buying meat by the cut at a grocery store.

Similar to the $4 million in federal CARES Act funds that were distributed to Iowa meat processors, the state grants that Ingels is proposing could be used to buy equipment, rent cooler space or cover other costs of meeting demand.

The CARES Act funds helped lockers meet consumer demand when there were sudden meat shortages last fall because of pandemic-related disruptions in the food supply chain. The grants helped small processor lessen their reliance on slaughterhouses to supply grocery stores and restaurants.
DES MOINES  Landlords in Marion and Iowa City will again be allowed to deny leases to renters who rely on federal housing choice aid like Section 8 vouchers under a measure signed into law Friday by Gov. Kim Reynolds.

In all Friday, the governor signed 37 bills, including legislation that attempts to protect Iowas livestock production industry by creating an unauthorized sampling criminal offense  the latest version of what critics call an ag gag law aimed at whistle blowers.

Under the new housing law, Senate File 252, counties and cities will be banned from adopting local measures that prohibit landlords from refusing to rent to someone using a federal housing voucher. That provision became effective upon the governors signature, but existing ordinances prohibiting a landlord from discriminating against a source of income  like are on the books in Iowa City, Marion and Des Moines  would not be repealed until January 2023 so renters affected would not lose their homes right away.
While most of the menu looks to traditional Italian food for inspiration, Wolen couldnt help but bring in a few Italian American dishes, too. In the salad section, we play with classic Italian American chopped salad served in a big wooden bowl with tongs, Wolen said. Youll be able to order different-sized bowls depending on the size of the table. Also look out for his spin on chicken Parmesan.
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OMAHA, Neb. (AP)  The family of a mentally ill Oklahoma man who died in a struggle with Omaha police four years ago is rallying for him again with a silent walk to the place where he died.
"With this engine location swap ,the general aesthetic and performance would still be preserved and the vertical wings would now hold satellite, communication, and navigation equipment instead," he says.

Data firm Cirium has indicated that the number of planes dismantled for parts or scrap could double to 1,000 annually through 2023, so there will certainly be a lot of jet engines available if re-using them in this way becomes a trend.

'Out of the box concept'

But Pavasovic considers the Cobra concept as a one-off project rather than an indication of the future of superyacht design.

It's one of two new concepts he's just released (the second being the 40-meter EX40,) to celebrate the first anniversary of his London-based firm Pavasovic Studio.

If the Cobra concept were to be picked up, Pavasovic believes it would take approximately four years to design, engineer and build.

The price tag would "likely be hundreds of millions of dollars" depending on where it was built and the final specifications.
On Feb.14, 2021, urban planner Danicia Monet posted a link to an open letter on her Facebook page, with its primary demand that Newfields CEO and president Charles Venable step down from the position he had occupied at the museum since 2012. That he ultimately did step down was certainly a dramatic development, but it may also be part of a broader shift occurring in arts institutions across the country and around the world.

Monets letter quickly gained 2219 signatures.

Those who signed the letter insisted Venable step down because of a Newfields job posting that sought a museum director who would be responsible for attracting a broader and more diverse audience" while maintaining the museums traditional, core, white audience. The job posting was widely perceived as insensitive and racist and generated national attention inside and outside the museum community.

The process of coming up with the letter to Newfields happened organically, Monet said. Many of us were sharing stories about how typical that was but also how outrageous that was in terms of the job posting.

Some of the discussions online brought up incidents that had happened at Newfields and other arts organizations previously.

As I was talking with my colleagues and cohort of community members, just asking them how they felt, it just seemed like something that we could do together and potentially there would be an opportunity to make something shift in that moment, said Monet, who has served as the project manager for the Arts Council of Indianapolis' Murals for Racial Justice project. So that's how it came about; quite organically and through the support of many many community members.

More Coverage Danicia Monets MicroAffections Im so happy to see you here was the wording on Danicia Monets outdoor installation on the corner of Washington St. at the corner of Washington and Pennsylvania Streets titled MicroAffections It was part of the Arts Council of Indianapolis #SWISHIndy that used art to celebrate the NCAA Mens Division I Basketball Tournament in March, or March Madness as its better known. Monet had the help of curator Mike Barclay, the installation's co-designer Bekah Pollard and a ton of volunteers in getting the installation ready for March Madness. MicroAffections, in general, is my artistic response as an urban planner to these things called microaggressions that affect how people of color and how marginalized groups move through physical space and move through the world, she said. And that's what I'm constantly looking at as an urban planner and artist; ways to make spaces more inclusive and more more liberated for everyone involved. Monet says microaggressions are described as the wound of a thousand cuts for a reason. They happen constantly daily, cumulatively, and this is just one of my activations to begin to think about how we can start to heal as a community, she said. We were one of the last states in the country to start to think about a hate crime bill. And these hate crimes don't just happen on their own, they're part of a series of events, and from my research and my theory of learning. I think they often begin with microaggressions not being addressed that lead to compounded negative racist bias, prejudice behavior that often times and sometimes not always reported, but oftentimes leads to physical violence, which is a hate crime.

On February 16, eighty-five Newfields staff members and stakeholders released another letter, this one unsigned, also demanding Venables resignation.

On February 17, the museum released a statement of apology for the posting along with the news that Venable had resigned. The museum also promised to release an action plan in 30 days to address questions of diversity, equity, inclusion, and access at the museum.

On March 19, Newfields announced its promised action plan. This plan includes the establishment of a $20 million endowment to enhance representation in exhibitions and programming, organization-wide DEIA training, increasing leadership diversity, hiring a leadership-level diversity executive, outside review of leadership, culture, and policies, and launching a community advisory committee.

Monet sees the action plan as a starting point. I was hoping to see more definitive timelines, more structured timeline so that you know the community can honestly see progress, and accountability, she said. Right now, in my opinion, it seems very vague and abstract [...] but there's not really a definition to it about when things will be started or happening or done or updates. That is a bit disappointing to me.

The museum has not responded to two requests from NUVO for comment.

Monet sees outstanding issues that were not addressed in the document. I think there are issues still at play around their internal work, infrastructure and how they relate with their employees, which is only going to affect how they relate to the outside community. And I also think, in tandem with that, theres a really pertinent conversation about how they address community. I mean, it's still a gated facility.

Monet also thinks the aesthetics of a fenced-in museum have to be addressed if a conversation is to be had about situations of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility.

It's great that they are reviewing ways to expand the fee structure so that more people can experience the space and membership structures and these types of things, but there's also those real visual key markers that have not been addressed, she said. That has just kind of been completely left out of the conversation. Spatial justice is as much a part of the conversation as their lack of cultural competency and racist behaviors.

And she is disappointed in Newfields reliance on outside consultants.

"One thing I'm a bit disappointed in is the idea of an outside organization, PINK Consulting, doing this work in our city, with an institution that is meant to be a part of our community," she said. "I am hopeful that Newfields will reach out as they continue this work and find local practitioners to help heal the wounds that we all bear together.

One of those Monet consulted with on the Newfields letter is Mindy Taylor Ross of Art Strategies LLC, who believes the changes outlined in the plan, while good and necessary, are also overdue.

A lot of these actions are things that companies and organizations across the country have been acting upon for a while, Ross said. But, of course, it's nice to know that the museum is aware of that and is catching up.

After noting that her perspective is that of a middle-aged white woman who is in the art world, Ross also criticized Newfields operational strategy. One of several things that has bothered me about the way that our museum operates is that our museum tends to want people to come to [...] versus really going out into the community and looking outward and kind of meeting people where they are in the city and in their communities.

Ross is also concerned with a sentence on the last page of the document that reads: Newfields will increase its attendance at off-site meetings and events, to hear from people who havent visited Newfields, and to share information about new programs and offerings.

Ross wonders why that sentence occurred on page 10 instead of, say, page one.

For just years and years this has been something that I have wanted the museum and the museum staff to do, she said. Now that doesn't really have necessarily to do with serving our community of color directly, but it speaks to just serving the community better period, across the board.

But the placement of the sentence on the last page of the action plan has Ross concerned because she wants this commitment to be more front and center.

Something shifting in the moment?

Newfields is far from the only museum in the country that has faced criticism from art activists and calls for greater inclusivity.

While a recent exhibition at the Herron School of Art & Design titled SHIFT: What can Museums Change? didnt reference Newfields, it did reference issues that Newfields is currently facing like the increasing pressure to return stolen artifacts to their nations of origin.

SHIFT also reflects the reality that, under increased pressure from the communities they serve, museums are revamping their institutions to revamp practices that have, in the words of the exhibitions promotional copy, historically privileged whiteness and wealth.

The exhibition, developed by students in the IUPUI Museum Studies Program, looks at four case studies of museums around the world  the Tenement Museum (New York City), the National Museum of African American History and Culture (Washington, DC), Te Papa Tongarewa (Poneke Wellington, Aotearoa New Zealand), and the Pitt Rivers Museum (Oxford, England)  where architectural interventions are being implemented, old curatorial practices are being discarded, and new ones being implemented to reflect the desire to right historical wrongs, and better represent people who have traditionally been marginalized.

In addition to hosting SHIFT, in conjunction with another exhibition on display at Herron titled Creativity vs. COVID which IUPUI associate professor Laura Holzman curated in collaboration with other members of the Free the Vaccine collective, which hopes to make vaccines accessible worldwide.

Holzman, who directs the Museum Studies program at IUPUI, acknowledges that many museums have their roots in colonial practices, such as inheriting collections of artworks that have been taken by force from countries under colonial occupation.

But I think we can also look to examples of institutions that are operating differently that are working to right historical wrongs, she said.

Holzmans students in exhibit planning and design, who developed SHIFT, are also interested in righting historical wrongs. The questions they answer in their exhibition are the same questions that concern their professor.

How have museums taken big steps and small steps to be better? she asks. And to shift the focus of power?

Editor's note: I changed the title to reflect that the tentative nature of changes made so far at Newfields. (Former title: A shift at Newfields and in Museums around the world.)
Indianapolis, IN (46208)

Today

Showers this morning then scattered thunderstorms developing during the afternoon hours. High 81F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%..

Tonight

A few clouds. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 67F. Winds light and variable.
An undocumented immigrant mother and her infant son are released from detention with other families at a bus depot in McAllen, Texas on July 26, 2018. Photo: Loren Elliott/REUTERS

The Biden administration said Sunday that it will begin to reunite families that were separated at the U.S.-Mexico border during Donald Trumps tenure. Last month, Axios noted that while President Biden had created a family-reunification task force during his first two weeks in office, his administration had yet to bring any families back together.

Now the New York Times reports that four previously deported parents from Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras will be permitted to reenter the United States this week in order to be reunited with their children. They will be in the country on humanitarian parole as other options are explored.

Sources also told the Times that 30 other migrants will likely be allowed into the country within one to two months to reunite with their children.

The Family Reunification Task Force has been working day and night, across the federal government and with counsel for the families and our foreign partners, to address the prior administrations cruel separation of children from their parents. Today is just the beginning, said Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas in a statement. We are reuniting the first group of families, many more will follow, and we recognize the importance of providing these families with the stability and resources they need to heal.

The Trump administration officially implemented its family separation policy in 2018 with then Attorney General Jeff Sessions saying the government would have a zero-tolerance policy toward border crossings from undocumented immigrants. But data shows that migrant children were being separated from their parents as early as October 2017 as part of a DHS pilot program. Mayorkas said two of the mothers coming to the country this week were separated from their children during this time.

At least 5,500 children are believed to have been separated from their parents while the policy was in place. NBC News reported in February that more than 500 children have yet to be reunited with their parents.

Officials announced back in April that the reunification task force was currently reviewing 5,600 files to verify whether there were additional cases of separation that the Biden administration didnt already know about. The files are from January to July 2017 and are being checked against information in other databases across the government.
Lee Countys new planning commission will be busy over the next several weeks, hiring a consultant and hosting a public meeting to help figure out what citizens want and expect from them.

The public body was created in March by the Lee County Commission, partly in response to county citizens opposed to the proposed CreekWood granite quarry near Beulah. Those opponents want the planning commission to come with zoning language to stop the quarry in Beat 13, which would then be submitted to Lee County commissioners for final approval.

As it stands right now, the only legal barrier to CreekWoods plan would be denial of the air and water emissions permits it needs to operate at the site. The Alabama Department of Environmental Management is taking public comments on the companys permit applications and will host a public hearing May 20 at Opelikas Municipal Court chambers.

Tasks at handThere is no zoning in Beat 13 or any other unincorporated parts of the county, but the county does have a Master Plan in place. That plan, devised several years ago, was never put into place due to public opposition to zoning.
The tornado threat has diminished significantly, so [the National Weather Service] has replaced the tornado watch with a severe thunderstorm watch, Austin Jones with the Lee County Emergency Management Agency said. Weve got another round of severe weather coming in tomorrow, so well probably have some different watches coming out [then] as well.

(Original story: 9:45 Monday)

A tornado watch has been issued in Lee County and other parts of the state by the National Weather Service until 3 p.m. on Monday, according to the Lee County Emergency Management Agency.

According to forecasts from the National Weather Service in Birmingham, severe storms are possible, and Lee County is in an enhanced risk area for possible tornadoes, hail and damaging winds up to 70 miles per hour as of early Monday morning.

Other counties affected by the tornado watch include Coosa, Elmore, Montgomery, Chambers, Clay, Cleburne, Macon, Randolph, Russell, Tallapoosa and Bullock counties, according to the emergency management agency.

The agency is encouraging all resident to remain aware of the weather and have multiple ways of receiving updates on weather conditions.

The Lee County Emergency Management Agency also warned about severe weather across the state on Tuesday. Conditions are lining up for the possibility of damaging winds up to 70 mph, quarter size hail and tornadoes tomorrow for most of the state, a statement from the emergency management agency said on Monday morning.

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The first time the air warmed and the outdoor beckoned, we headed out into nature with fear in our steps, anxiously avoiding other humans and carrying backpacks of worry and loss. Still, for most of us, the inevitability of seasonal change offered some weeks of comfort: the advancing of nature seemed to signal a retreat of the plague. Plus, we were out of the basement.
The astronauts even got to eat some of the crops they grew, Hopkins said during a recent press conference.

"I think all of us would would agree that it is amazing to have fresh [food] up here," Hopkins said.

It was Glover's first-ever mission to space, and his assignment was historic because he became the first Black person to become a full-time ISS staff member.

"One thing that did really profoundly impact me was the very first time I got out of the seat after [our spacecraft] was safely in orbit, and I looked out the window and saw the Earth from 250 miles up," Glover said "I will never forget that moment...It wasn't about the view. It was how the view made me feel...the Earth is amazing. It's beautiful. It protects us, and so we should work hard to protect it."
Staff Writer

Brad Hundt came to the Observer-Reporter in 1998 after stints at newspapers in Georgia and Michigan. He serves as editorial page editor, and has covered the arts and entertainment and worked as a municipal beat reporter.
The worlds largest oil companies reported solid earnings and strong cash flow generation for the first quarter. But all those profits had very little to do with the pledges from Europes major oil firms to boost investment in renewables and work more for low-carbon energy solutions to reach net-zero emissions by 2050.

The main driver of the higher earningsin Exxons case a return to earnings after four consecutive quarters of losseswas the recovery of oil prices during the first quarter this year.

All supermajors benefited much more from the rising oil and gas prices and profitable oil and gas trading than from their investments in renewable energy.

If anyone at all had expected a pivot to renewables to start bringing in loads of cash for Big Oil less than a year after all the pledges for net-zero emissions and increased investment in low-carbon energy, they havent been paying attention to the top oil executives who have repeatedly said that the renewables business will not have the same return on investment as the ones from oil and gasat least not in the short and medium term.

Sure, in the Q1 communications to the market, the supermajors in Europe doubled down on their commitments to invest increasing amounts of money into renewables and monetize renewable energy assets. But it is cash from oil and gas operations that is a key source of their investments in low-carbon energy. Related: Three Things That Will Drive Oil Prices In May



Performing while transforming  this is what BPs chief executive officer Bernard Looney reiterates in every update to the market. In other words, strong cash generation in Q1, thanks to the higher oil prices, allows BP to continue transforming for a future in which its oil and gas production will have dropped by 40 percent in ten years.

BP is resuming share buybacks this quarter after more than tripling its first-quarter earnings from a year ago on the back of rising oil prices and exceptional gas marketing and trading performance, it said last week. Shell reported a surge in adjusted earnings for the first quarter and lifted its dividend by 4 percent as higher oil and gas prices and demand drove profits higher.

Shell and BP are not yet reporting renewables division earnings as a separate item, but some European majors have started doing so. Total, Eni, and Equinor already have a separate item for the contribution of renewables to the core earnings, although renewables are in some cases paired with the power divisions.

These new reporting approaches aim to show investors that renewables will be of growing strategic importance to the European oil majors. But they also show that Big Oil needs a lot more performing from the core oil and gas assets in order to achieve the transforming of the energy business and return on investment in the renewables divisions.

For example, Total said its adjusted net income of $3 billion for Q1 exceeded its earnings from the pre-crisis Q1 2019, thanks to higher oil and gas prices and the strategy to grow LNG and renewables. Yet, earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) on its renewable business were just US$148 million out of more than $7 billion total EBITDA. Related: China Snubs U.S. With Huge Iraqi Gas Deal

Norways Equinor started reporting renewables as a separate reporting segment and reported massive adjusted earnings from that division of $1.34 billion for Q1, up from just $13 million for Q1 2020, thanks to a $1.4-billion capital gain from welcoming BP as a shareholder in its U.S. offshore wind projects and Italys Eni as a minority shareholder in the Dogger Bank project offshore the UK.

Equinors major gain from renewables was from farming down interests and welcoming other major corporations with predominantly oil and gas businesses to offshore wind developments.

So international oil majors are moving into more renewables businesses, but they are looking to spread risks and monetize the assets.

Power and renewables at Italys Eni earned US$243 million (202 million euro) to contribute to the adjusted operating profit, while the exploration and production division contributed as much as US$1.66 billion (1.38 billion euro). Eni is also considering either listing or selling a minority stake in the new division that includes the renewables business, to extrapolate the maximum value from this new entity during the course of 2022.

Fitch Ratings does not see for Eni a meaningful contribution to cash flows from the renewables business in the medium term, it said on Friday.

Overall, analysts do not expect renewables to generate massive cash flows and profits for Big Oil over the next few years. Until renewables start contributing meaningfully to the bottom line and cash flows, it will be oil and gas profits that will finance the low-carbon energy push of the major oil companies.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
The Saudi government is indeed in advanced talks with several Chinese entities  sovereign wealth funds and oil companies  to sell a 1 per cent stake in its flagship company, Saudi Aramco, OilPrice.com can confirm from a number of banking and oil industry sources close to the deal.

The sale of such a strategic stake in such a key company in Saudi Arabia to a Chinese entity would mark a decisive shift of power in the Middle East towards China and away from the U.S., further fracturing the already-strained 1945 core relationship agreement between Washington and Riyadh. For China, Saudi has long been a prime target of its overarching strategy to replace the U.S. not just as the worlds largest economy by nominal GDP by 2030 at the latest (it is already the worlds largest economy by purchasing power parity, the largest manufacturing economy, and the largest trading nation) but also as the major geopolitical power in many of the U.S.s key spheres of influence. Related: Russia Boosted Oil Production In April

It is vital to understand in this context that the sale of a significant stake in Aramco to China is not a new idea but rather was seriously considered back in 2017/18/19 by senior Saudis when it became clear that there was no interest by any major international stock exchange in being the international listing destination for Aramcos planned initial public offering (IPO), analysed in depth in my last book on the oil markets. The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) had been one of the original top-two favoured candidates, alongside the London Stock Exchange (LSE), as these two bourses are regarded as the most liquid, most traded, and most prestigious stock exchanges in the world. Early on, though, a number of major problems began to bubble up for a listing of Aramco in the U.S., including a growing awareness of the lies from Saudi Arabia about oil reserves, spare capacity, tax rates, concessions, and non-hydrocarbons activities plus Saudi Arabias perceived links with the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

This overwhelmingly negative sentiment was pervasive in the U.S. even before Saudi continued the indiscriminate bombing of Yemen, led the way in the international ostracising of Qatar, kidnapped Lebanons then-President Saad Hariri and forced his resignation (allegedly), and murdered the journalist Jamal Khashoggi, which even the CIA said would never have been done without MbSs personal go-ahead. The same concerns weighed on an international listing for Aramco on the LSE and attempts by LSE chief executive officer Xavier Rolet and then-U.K. Prime Minister Theresa May to forge some sort of compromise listing solution for Aramco in London ultimately failed due to investor concerns over the same issues plus the lack of transparency of Aramco and the likely treatment of minority shareholders.

Given this, and how much of his personal reputation he had invested in Aramco being able to easily offer 5 percent of its stock for at least US$100 million  which would value the entire company at US$2 trillion  Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MbS) was desperate to save face any way he could and engaged in talks to do a private placement of Aramcos entire 5 percent stake with Chinese buyers.

The beauty of this from MbSs perspective was that all details of the deal would be kept secret including, most importantly for his international and domestic credibility, the price per share and, therefore, the overall valuation for Aramco that this price would imply. Almost perfect though this solution would have been (the only downside being that there would have been no truly international element to the IPO, as MbS had promised, although he could have argued that this was due to unfair prejudice on the part of the West against Saudi Arabias business practices) a problem arose with it in that China sought to tie in its assistance with the notion of Saudi Arabia accepting the renminbi (RMB) currency in payment for crude oil supplies.

This would have infuriated the U.S. for which the relationship with Saudi Arabia was already becoming increasingly strained, although it would have made sense for the Saudis, Mehrdad Emadi, head of global risk analysis firm, Betamatrix, in London, exclusively told OilPrice.com last week. The vast majority of Saudi government borrowing in the previous few years had been denominated in U.S. dollars, so a switch away from dollar funding would have allowed Saudi more flexibility in its overall financing structure, he said. Related: Three Things That Will Drive Oil Prices In May

Following this, the then-Saudi Vice Minister of Economy and Planning, Mohammed al-Tuwaijri, told a Saudi-Chinese conference in Jeddah at the end of August 2017 that: We will be very willing to consider funding in renminbi and other Chinese products. Even more telling was when he said that China was: By far one of the top markets to diversify the funding basis of Saudi Arabia and that: We will also access other technical markets in terms of unique funding opportunities, private placements, panda bonds and others. These comments came during the visit of high-ranking politicians and financiers from China to Saudi Arabia, which featured a meeting between King Salman and Chinese Vice Premier, Zhang Gaoli, in Jeddah. During this visit, Saudi first mentioned seriously that it was willing to consider funding itself partly in Chinese yuan, raising the possibility of closer financial ties between the two countries.

Indeed, at these meetings it was also decided that Saudi Arabia and China planned to establish a US$20 billion investment fund on a 50:50 basis. According to comments at the time from then-Saudi Energy Minister, Khalid al-Falih, this fund would invest in sectors such as infrastructure, energy, mining and materials, among other areas. The Jeddah meetings in August 2017 followed a landmark visit to China by Saudi Arabias King Salman in March of that year during which around US$65 billion of business deals were signed in sectors including oil refining, petrochemicals, light manufacturing and electronics.

This caveat of selling oil to China denominated in RMB and not U.S. dollars, OilPrice.com understands from sources close to the current Saudi Aramco talks with China, is still central to the conditionality of Beijing taking the 1 percent Aramco stake. Increasingly marginalising the U.S. dollar in favour of boosting the role of the renminbi is also a central lever through which China is seeking to undermine the U.S.s influence around the world, highlighted Emadi.

In fact, as early as the G20 summit in London in April 2010, Zhou Xiaochuan, then-governor of the Peoples Bank of China (PBOC), flagged the notion that the Chinese wanted a new global reserve currency to replace the U.S. dollar at some point. The long-planned sequencing for this to occur was: the renminbis inclusion in the Special Drawing Rights (SDR) reserve asset mix (which happened in 2016); increasing its use as a trading currency (which naturally followed that); its use as the key currency of an international energy trading exchange (which occurred with the launch of the renminbi-denominated Shanghai International Energy Exchange in 2018); and increasing calls from big oil producers and other major trading nations to use the renminbi (which has occurred frequently since the renminbis inclusion in the SDR mix).

Only recently in this latter context, for example, Leonid Mikhelson, chief executive officer of Russian oil major, Novatek, said that future sales to China denominated in renminbi are under consideration and that U.S. sanctions accelerate the process of Russia trying to switch away from U.S. dollar-centric oil and gas trading and the damage from potential sanctions that go with it. This has been discussed for a while with Russias largest trading partners such as India and China, and even Arab countries are starting to think about it... If they do create difficulties for our Russian banks then all we have to do is replace dollars, he said. The trade war between the U.S. and China will only accelerate the process, he added.

Moreover, under the auspices of former U.S. President, Donald Trump, when a sea-change in foreign policy occurred that meant that U.S. dollar-centric sanctions changed from being merely an instrument of policy against countries to the policy itself, momentum has built in many key petro-states for a change away from dependence on the U.S. dollar, said Emadi. For a long time there was no real alternative for big oil producers such as Iran, Venezuela, and even Russia that were on one of the U.S.s sanctions lists to sell their oil in any other currency than the U.S. dollar but increasingly there will be other options, with China leading this strategic shift, he told OilPrice.com. The U.S.s view is that its dollar is the only game in town but to use its currency to punish other countries is highly likely to work in favour of the decisive marginalisation of the power of the U.S. dollar, and therefore also of the U.S., within the next decade, he concluded.

By Simon Watkins for Oilprice.com

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The relationship between Australia and China has been going through a difficult period lately. Altercations surrounding the origins of COVID-19 rage on, all the while China has found ways to curb imports of Australian coal, oil and LNG to demonstrate that it would not refrain from weaponizing energy trade if it considers such steps to be necessary. Not every segment of bilateral trade was as impacted as hydrocarbons were  China was tangibly more prudent with iron ore as roughly two-thirds of its monthly needs come from Chinese companies; any replacement thereof would ramp up logistics costs and thus render the operation of steel mills less efficient. The first of the banned hydrocarbon triad, Australias LNG exports to China are bouncing back to normalcy, i.e. the period before COVID politics got involved.

Graph 1. Australian LNG Imports to China in 2019-2021 (million tons LNG).

Source: Thomson Reuters.

The main thrust of the Sino-Australian confrontation  coal exports  has barely changed over the course of 2021. In April, just as in January 2021, there were only 3 cargoes of coal from Australia to China. A year ago, in March-June 2020, the monthly number of cargoes would oscillate between 60 and 80. Banning Australia did not alter Chinese appetite for coal, only transformed trade flows so that now Beijing buys increasingly more from the United States. Australian exporters, on the other hand, have seen their exports to India surge beyond expectations, largely aided by the subsequent drop in prices. Such an outcome benefits neither side; Chinese buyers are compelled to buy lower-quality coal for a higher price, whilst Australian producers receive less income than due amidst a constrained playing field. Against this background it should not come as a surprise that the geopolitical feud continues to rage on. Related: Russia Boosted Oil Production In April



Australias federal government has cancelled a 2018 agreement between the State of Victoria and the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), Chinas economic planning agency, this April. Concurrently, one of Australias powerhouse states, New South Wales, vowed to pay off Chinas state-controlled mining company Shenhua 100 million AUD for cancelling the proposed Watermark thermal coal project. Although the government of NSW closed off the entire Liverpool Plains region from further coal projects, i.e. not only Chinese investors will have suffered a setback, in the heated atmosphere of confrontation such steps might be perceived as provocative. Now, seeing the tensions between Australia and China, it is all the more surprising to see LNG flows between the two nations doing so well.

Obviously, the LNG rebound owes its success to two main factors  ample LNG being available and LNG prices being reasonable for the buyer. When it comes to the first criterion, it needs to be highlighted that the total volume of LNG cargoes leaving Australia in March 2021 (i.e. the ones that would most probably arrive to China in April 2021) reached an all-time high of 7.2mtpa. Of this, 2.96 million tons LNG went to China, equivalent to 41% of the total. For reference, the erstwhile top result was 6.93mtpa in March 2020 (34% went to China), meaning that this March producers of liquefied gas in Australia were firing on all cylinders. Cargoes loaded in April 2021 (most of April-loading cargoes will see their vessels arriving in May 2021) have heretofore provided for the second-highest monthly volume in history, attaining 7.01 million tons LNG per month.

Thus, Australia had sufficient LNG volumes to dispense with, moreover after the January 2021 cold snap Asian spot markets predictably nosedived, providing for favourable LNG tanker freight rates and relatively low spot prices. The surging Australian cargoes have heated up Asias LNG market, implying that Chinas May 2021 LNG imports from Australia are poised to drop month-on-month. First and foremost, as was already insinuated above, China landed LNG prices have crept up. Throughout March landed prices hovered around the 6 USD per MMbtu mark, however, since mid-April theyve spiralled up to 8.5 USD per MMbtu. This should weaken Chinese buying interest  seeing the wider regional trend with South Korea and Japan also buying less, weaker demand certainly seems to be the new reality. Related: China Snubs U.S. With Huge Iraqi Gas Deal

Second, Australias LNG production has dropped in April on the back of the 3.7mtpa Darwin LNG going into a week-long maintenance which has seen output going at a reduced rate. Third, shipping costs have gone up substantially over the course of the last weeks. If end-March has seen tanker day rates around 30-32k USD per day, at the end of April carrier rates spiralled up to 60k USD per day. Bunker fuel rates have also gone up, meaning that the overall shipping costs are 20-30 cents per MMbtu higher now than one month ago, assessed around 0.7 USD per MMbtu. Australia has 3 LNG export terminals across its territory  the 9mtpa Australia Pacific LNG (in which Sinopec is a shareholder), the 8.5mtpa Queensland Curtis LNG and the 7.8mtpa Gladstone LNG.

The chances that Australia will have another export terminal are rather slim, on the contrary, Australian authorities are currently assessing 5 different projects for a new LNG import terminal. Australias Energy Market Operator estimates that gas production in the Gippsland Basin, the legacy gas-producing region of the countrys southern part, will get depleted faster than initially anticipated, portending the need for an import terminal in the countrys south (of the 5 proposed projects 2 are located in Victoria, 2 in NSW and 1 in South Australia). Although Australia has been making significant headway with its renewables, its aggregate gas demand is expected to remain more or less the same through the mid-2020s.

By Viktor Katona for Oilprice.com

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Oil prices recouped earlier losses and were rising by more than 1 percent on Monday morning, after the European Union unveiled a plan to open its borders to vaccinated tourists, giving more hope to oil bulls that economies and oil demand are set for a rebound in the summer months.

As of 10:28 a.m. EDT on Monday, WTI Crude was trading up 1.46 percent at $64.47, and Brent Crude prices had risen by 1.26 percent at $67.57.

Oil prices erased earlier losses in Asian trade, which had reflected the still critical situation with the coronavirus in India. The worlds third-largest oil importer reported more than 300,000 new COVID-19 cases for the 12th day in a row on Monday, while reports are that the number of infections and the death toll may be underreported.

Later on Monday, however, the European Commission said it was proposing to ease restrictions on non-essential travel to the EU while addressing variants through a new emergency brake mechanism. The Commission proposes that the EU allow entry for non-essential travel for anyone who has received the last dose of an EU-approved vaccine at least two weeks before arrival.

The Council must now consider the proposal of the European Commission, with discussions starting as early as on Tuesday.

Time to revive EU tourism industry and for cross-border friendships to rekindlesafely, the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, tweeted on Monday.

We propose to welcome again vaccinated visitors & those from countries with a good health situation. But if variants emerge, we have to act fast: we propose an EU emergency brake mechanism, von der Leyen added.

The hope that Europe could salvage this summers holiday season and start welcoming non-EU travelers again for vacations is bullish news for oil prices, as travel, especially jet travel, is set to increase. Economies will benefit as people have been waiting for a year to travel quarantine-free and spend money on and during vacations.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

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Chinas domestic natural gas demand is set to grow faster this year, gaining 10 percent, Argus reports, citing state-owned energy majors PetroChina and Sinopec.

A senior PetroChina gas executive said demand for natural gas will be driven by the utility sector as gas-fired power plants ramp up production to back up intermittent solar and wind capacity.

According to the executive, the countrys demand for natural gas will hit 350-356 billion cubic meters this year. Sinopec has almost identical numbers, expecting gas demand at 350-360 billion cubic meters. According to the major, the demand would come from power utilities and the industrial sector.

In 2020, China consumed 326.2 billion cubic meters of natural gas, of which 192.5 billion cubic meters came from domestic production. This was almost 10 percent higher than the domestic production figure for 2019. Imports also rose in 2020, by 5.3 percent to 140.3 billion cubic meters.

LNG imports specifically jumped by 10.3 percent over the first eight months of the first pandemic year as the Chinese economy rebounded a lot more quickly than others. As with oil, China was the driver of the recovery in gas demand last year.

For this year, domestic production plans are for 202.5 billion cubic meters, which would be 5.2 percent higher than the 2020 figure. Of this total, PetroChina is seen producing 133.8 billion cubic meters. Sinopec, a much smaller gas producer, plans to extract 34 billion cubic meters of natural gas this year.

Even so, some in the gas industry in China are worried that demand is growing more slowly than it should. A recent poll carried out by Verdict and cited by Offshore Technology showed that for 35 percent of Chinas gas and LNG industry, slow demand growth was the biggest concern. This was followed by LNG import project delays, which were the top concern for 21 percent.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

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Signs have already started to emerge that Indias COVID crisis has hit oil demand in the worlds third-largest oil importer, but now sources say that demand for liquefied natural gas (LNG) is also down due to the health emergency, and cargoes headed for the virus hotspot are being turned around.

Shippers are diverting LNG cargoes away from Indian terminals because of lower demand for gas, shipping and trade sources told Reuters on Monday.

Localized lockdowns are depressing demand for gas for commercial and transportation in India, according to traders.

Ship-tracking data from Refinitiv Eikon and Kpler, cited by Reuters, suggests that Indias imports of LNG declined by 11-14 percent in April compared to March.

Gas demand from city-gas distribution such as transport and commercial sectors is down, and gas-based power demand is not much as spot prices have not come down to acceptable levels, an India-based source told Reuters.

India has been reporting record-high new COVID infections these days, and despite the dire situation, the Indian government is not willing to impose a new nationwide lockdown as it did in the spring of last year, fearing that the economy would collapse.

The record new daily coronavirus cases, however, have prompted lockdowns in major cities and states in India, which has already led to declining fuel sales.

Sales of gasoline in India were the weakest in April since August 2020, officials with knowledge of preliminary data told Bloomberg. Average daily sales of diesel, the most used fuel in the country, slumped in April to the lowest level since last October, according to the preliminary estimates.

Indias demand for diesel, gasoline, and jet fuel is expected to further decline in the coming days and probably weeks, with no sign that the second COVID wave in the country would peak within days.

The market fears that the drop in Indian demand would slow down global oil demand recovery.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

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Certain measures have been passed in Congress in an effort to alleviate the rates of maternal deaths. The Affordable Care Act mandated essential health benefits to all, and the recent American Rescue Plan of 2021 calls for Medicaid coverage to be extended for 60 days to women whose income does not exceed 138% of the federal poverty level, and states can exercise the right to provide Medicaid coverage to pregnant women whose income is above that. This plan, which Illinois was one of the first states to adopt, according to Taylor, includes making postpartum services accessible to more women.
Iran will be able to raise its crude oil exports to 2.5 million barrels per day (bpd) after the U.S. sanctions on its oil industry are lifted, a top Iranian official said over the weekend, while reports emerged that the talks in Vienna for bringing Iran and the U.S. back to the nuclear deal had made progress.

Oil sales have dropped a lot, but now the situation is better, and we are in control. We will be able to increase oil exports to 2.5mn b/d after removal of the sanctions, Argus quoted Irans vice-president Eshaq Jahangiri as saying.

The United States is currently in indirect talks about the Iran nuclear deal with diplomats from Europe, Russia, and China in Vienna.

Currently, the U.S. sanctions imposed by the Trump Administration are preventing Iran from exporting all of its oil, as many buyers around the world dont want to risk their U.S. assets by doing business with Iran. Despite the sanctions, Iran has been exporting part of its crude oil, and exports have been estimated at around 500,000 bpd recently.

U.S. President Joe Biden has signaled a willingness to return to the nuclear deal, but only if Iran returns to full compliance in its nuclear activities.

In recent months, Iran has also boosted its crude oil production, to around 2.5 million bpd in April as per the monthly Reuters survey.

During the weekend, Iranian diplomats said there was progress made in the ongoing talks in Vienna.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said in remarks to a cabinet session this weekend, as carried by the website of the president:

With the defeat of the enemy in the economic war and approaching the lifting of sanctions according to recent negotiations, we can hope that the countrys economy can return to the path of balance and prosperity of the years 2014 to 2017.

But the United States National Security Advisor, Jake Sullivan, told ABC News This Week:

Theres still a fair distance to travel to close the remaining gaps, and those gaps are over what sanctions the United States and other countries will roll back.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

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Iraq could buy ExxonMobils 32.7-percent stake in one of the largest oilfields in OPECs second-largest producer, West Qurna 1, Bloomberg quoted Iraqs oil minister Ihsan Abdul Jabbar Ismaael as saying on Monday.

Reports of the U.S. supermajor potentially divesting its stake in the large Iraqi oilfield are not new. Last year, Bloomberg reported that Chinese state giants China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) and China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC) were interested in buying ExxonMobils entire operating stake in West Qurna 1. The stake sale could be worth at least US$500 million, reports had it at the time.

Last month, Bloomberg reported that Exxon was considering selling its stake in West Qurna 1 as it looks to cut its debts, which grew in 2020 with the collapse in oil prices, while the supermajor looks to keep its dividend intact.

The Iraqi government could now end up buying Exxons interest, the oil minister of OPECs second-largest producer behind Saudi Arabia said on Monday. A potential acquisition would be made via the Iraqi state-held Basra Oil Company, the minister added.

ExxonMobil signed in 2010 an agreement with the South Oil Company of the Iraq Ministry of Oil to rehabilitate and redevelop the West Qurna I field in southern Iraq. Exxon is the lead contractor, while a Royal Dutch Shell affiliate also held a stake under the 2010 agreement.

In 2018, Shell sold its stake in West Qurna 1 to Japans Itochu Corporation. The Japanese firm currently holds 19.6 percent in the oilfield. Apart from Itochu and the lead contractor Exxon, the other shareholders in West Qurna 1 are PetroChina with 32.7 percent, Indonesias Pertamina with 10 percent, and Oil Exploration Company with 5 percent.

Speaking to reporters today, the oil minister also said that Iraq sees oil prices staying around $65 per barrel in the near term.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

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We might even be above where we used to be under the Petersens ownership, said former Vise-Grip and current Eagle Grip employee Lyle Fink, 55. These tools are the strongest on the market.

Fink cited advances in technology and materials for the improved products. The factory produces and ships about 300 to 600 tools each day.

For the average person, these could be the last tools youll ever need to buy, said plant manager Kurtis Voelker.

As Malco intends to launch five more Eagle Grip products throughout the year, other businesses in DeWitt have also benefited from the factory restarting production.

Connie Fishburn, manager of the downtown convenience store DeWitt Quick, indicated that the increased business sparked by factory employees is allowing her to explore different items to sell, including craft beer.

Its definitely good to see production come back and not see the building sit empty anymore, she said.
During the visit, members of the 552nd ACNS MDT composed of cyber operators from a variety of backgrounds, explained the capabilities of a deployable cyber defense weapon system, Cyberspace Vulnerability Assessment/Hunter.

When a cyber-defense mission is tasked, a MDT crew plans and briefs the mission before operating on an AWACS or Control and Reporting Center cyber terrain, just like an aircrew.

I was able to learn how 552nd ACNS developed their MDT and how their MDT is protecting their mission system from cyber threats, said Capt. Shumpei Kawano, an exchange officer from Japan working as the Assistant Director of Operations for the 747th Communications Squadron at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii.

The 747 CS is now transforming from a Communications Squadron to a Cyber Squadron and developing their own MDT, this experience and knowledge will be helpful for us, Kawano said.

Kawano is a part of the U.S. Air Force Defense Personnel Exchange Program which allows a foreign air forces officer the opportunity to embed. He will be the first exchange officer to attend the U.S. Air Force Cyber Protect and Defend Course at the I.G. Brown Training and Education Center in East Tennessee. Following graduation he will work as a MDT operator with the 747 CS.
That could be important at a time when variants of the coronavirus have begun to outmaneuver some monoclonal antibody treatments. The Food and Drug Administration last month rescinded emergency approval for one monoclonal therapy when used by itself because it had lost potency against some variants.

That particular therapy has been credited with helping keep some Nebraska nursing home residents with COVID-19 out of hospitals. The therapy now is recommended for use only in combination with another such treatment, according to an alert the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services sent to health care providers. Other combination therapies also remain available.

Sullivan said the company has tested its product against variants. A recent study, published online but not reviewed by other scientists, indicates the firms antibodies do not lose significant activity to many of these variants were seeing around the world, he said.

The company produces the antibodies by injecting the modified cattle, which look like those found on many Midwestern farms, with a noninfectious portion of the coronavirus. The cattle produce antibodies to fight it.
That essentially means Glass, who resigned as county attorney March 1, gets two DUIs for the price of one.

The deficiencies in the police investigation made it very difficult for the prosecution in this case, Beadle told the judge. It would have been a very challenging case to try.

Following the recommendation of a probation officer, visiting Sarpy County Judge Robert Wester sentenced Glass to 18 months of probation. Wester ordered Glass to serve two days in jail upfront, but even that amounted to two for the price of one. The judge told Glass that he could report to the Dodge County Jail at 7 p.m. Monday and leave at 7 a.m. Tuesday. Though thats just 12 hours, Wester said, it counts for two days.

Combine that with the five days Glass already served in January, and that adds up to the minimum jail sentence for both the DUI and the probation violation. Glass could have received anywhere from a week to 60 days in jail in each case.

I encourage you to avail yourself of the benefits that the probation period may offer, Wester told Glass. I dont think it does a lot of good to put you in jail for 30 days. Then you get (out) and you continue to be a menace.
The University of Nebraska at Omaha announced Monday morning that classes and academic activities will return to as close to pre-pandemic levels as possible this fall.

The announcement by Chancellor Jeffrey Gold follows what he said were encouraging downward trends in the number of positive COVID-19 tests among people associated with UNO.

Four people tested positive last week. There have been only 190 cases since Jan. 18. Since the pandemic began, 848 people at UNO have tested positive.

According to Jane Meza, interim executive director of UNOs Office of Health Security, UNO has about 15,000 students and 4,000 staff members.

Gold said UNO officials made the decision after feedback from students, faculty and staff.

Our students, faculty and staff want to get into what we refer to as the new normal, he said.

Sacha Kopp, senior vice chancellor for academic affairs, said UNO is planning to offer in-person instruction for about 60% of its classes this fall.
UM professor awarded $430,000 NASA grant

MISSOULA - A University of Montana geosciences professor who studies the structure and evolution of the Earth has received a prestigious grant from NASA's Earth Surface and Interior Division.

Hilary Martens, assistant professor in the Department of Geosciences, housed in UM's College of Humanities and Sciences, recently was awarded a $443,000 three-year grant to investigate the structure of the Earth's interior using GPS observations of ocean tides.

Martens will serve as the grant's principal investigator, and the award includes funding to the California Institute of Technology as a collaborating institution, in addition to providing support for one full-time doctoral student at UM.

Martens will examine the relationship between the ocean tides and changes in the shape of the Earth. The project will use GPS to measure how the Earth flexes and deforms under the shifting weight of the ocean water, which will provide new knowledge on the materials that make up the layers of the Earth, according to Martens.

"Imagine pressing your finger into a Nerf ball or a bowling ball," Martens said. "Objects respond differently to the same force because they are made of different stuff. The structure and rigidity of the Earth have implications for how the Earth deforms under pressure. By gaining insight into the elasticity and density structure of the Earth from studying its dynamic response to loading by ocean tides, we can improve our understanding of what drives plate tectonics and surface hazards, such as earthquakes and volcanoes."

Using GPS, the project will measure the response of the Earth's crust and mantle to the weight of ocean tides, from which material properties of the Earth can be inferred.

Martens said GPS is able to monitor the changing shape of the Earth over time. That information can be used as a model to predict future changes, as well as to develop hypotheses about the Earth's physical evolution.

"Water and air move around on Earth's surface and the pressure changes cause the Earth to respond," Martens said. "The Earth is not perfectly rigid. It flexes under the weight of the water moving around on the surface, so it's constantly changing. We can learn about the material properties of the Earth's interior, which control how deformable the Earth is."

Martens said a better understanding of the structural model of the Earth can be used to improve the precision of locating earthquakes, in addition to having a deeper understanding of the Earth's history and the stability of continents. She said her research as a geoscientist includes a variety of scientific disciplines and methods, including data collection and analysis, analytical and numerical modeling, and ground and space-based observations.

Martens' research also provides a wider lens on water storage on the planet - including snowpack, groundwater, and water in lakes, soils, and the atmosphere - which is especially important for water resource management in a warming climate. Last year, Martens received $1.4 million in funding from the National Science Foundation as part of a multi-disciplinary team to track changes in the shape of the Earth from the storage and flow of water in mountain watersheds.

At UM, Martens manages the Martens Lab, a geophysics research group that studies earthquakes in Montana and the interactions between the Earth and its water surface, or fluid envelopes. Martens possesses a robust background in space science, planetary science and geophysics. She founded a seismic network for UM that engages students in local science and hazard monitoring, including measuring the aftershocks of Montana earthquakes.

Martens received undergraduate degrees in music and physics from UM as a Presidential Leadership Scholar in UM's Davidson Honors College. As a UM undergraduate, she also earned Marshall and Goldwater Scholarships.

She received master's degrees in geophysics from the University of Cambridge, University College London and the California Institute of Technology. She earned her doctorate in geophysics from the California Institute of Technology.

###

This story has been published on: 2021-05-03. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Bergelson said she was never told about her students objections, learning of them only after the petition surfaced April 6, five months later. Within days, she said, she convened a meeting with the criminal law class and other first-year students to discuss the incident and to offer an apology. The student, who has not been publicly identified, also apologized during the meeting.
Funderburk elected Humble mayor

It was a night for the incumbents in the city of Humble election on May 1. Norman Funderburk, who resigned his council seat to run, was elected mayor of the city of Humble.

Incumbent Charles Andy Curry was successful in retaining his Place 1 seat on the Humble City Council and Charles Cunningham retained his Place 2 seat on the Humble City Council.

With all 102 voting centers in Harris County reporting, the unofficial tally was:

Humble Mayor  Norman Funderburk, 509 votes (60.81 percent), Arliss Ann Bentley, 328 (39.19).

Humble City Council Place 1  Charles Andy Curry, 507 (62.29); Eric Lacy, 307 (37.71).

Humble City Council Place 2  Charles Cunningham, 605 (74.97); Linda Greenan, 202 (25.03).

- Curry, Cunningham retain their council seats -

The results of the election will be certified at a special meeting Wednesday, May 12 and the oath will be administered to Funderburk, Curry and Cunningham at the regularly scheduled City Council meeting Thursday, May 13, according to Jenny Page, Humble city secretary.

I am thankful for all the voters who participated in this important process, making informed decisions about the leadership of our City, Mayor-Elect Funderburk told The Tribune. The loyal support shown by our community has been overwhelming. It is clear from the results that our citizens recognize that experience matters. Now I am ready to move forward, focused on enhancing and protecting quality of life for our residents and providing for a sustainable future of our city. I will also be able to consider the input I have received from the voters I met with and follow on their concerns as well. I have strong beliefs and convictions around exceptionalism for the city of Humble, and it is my strong desire that all residents share this same pride.

Funderburks opponent, Arliss Bentley, told The Tribune, While campaigning around Humble, I have enjoyed meeting and making new friends and reconnecting with old friends, especially former students.

Cunningham responded, I would like to thank God, my family and the people of Humble. I look forward to serving the citizens of Humble for the next two years and working with the council to address the challenges facing the city.

His opponent, Linda Greenan told The Tribune, This has truly been an experience and a journey, and I will continue to be involved in the city and for the people of Humble.

At press time, The Tribune had not received post-election responses from Curry or Lacy.

Funderburk is a native Houstonian and, along with wife, Kathy, a 1970 graduate of Humble High School. He attended both Texas A&M University and the University of Houston before spending the next 42 years in the engineering/construction industry.

Before retiring, he was a vice-president with Koch Specialty Plant Services where he was responsible for management and oversight of more than 200 engineering projects each year in the refining and petrochemical industry.
Sitton, Kirchhofer, Parker, Lemond Dixon win Humble ISD election

On May 1, voters cast their ballots for four Humble ISD board of trustees positions. Incumbents Robert Sitton and Martina Lemond Dixon retained their seats while newcomers Ken Kirchhofer and Chris Parker were elected.

Approximately 9,000 votes were cast in the election, which is equivalent to a low 7 percent turnout.

The newly elected board members will be sworn in next month. Board members are scheduled to take the oath of office at the school board meeting on June 8, said Jamie Mount, chief communications officer for Humble ISD.

For Position No. 1, the results were: William A. Epperson 653 (6.83%); Rebecca Tribo 2,581 (26.99%); Edgar Clayton 357 (3.73%); Robert A. Sitton 5,972 (62.45%). Total 9,563

I am extremely humbled by the outpouring of support I received from our community. We have accomplished so much over the past 10 years; I cannot wait to see what great things are in store for Humble ISD over the next four years. I also want to congratulate Martina Lemond Dixon for her reelection victory as well as welcoming our two newest board members, Chris Parker and Ken Kirchhofer. Now that our team of eight is complete, I wanted to congratulate all candidates who threw their hat into the ring of public service, said Sitton.

A whopping eight candidates were on the ballot for Position No. 3, and Chris Parker emerged as the victor with 52 percent of the vote.

Here are the results: Jesse Givens 658 (6.99%); Chris Parker 4,946 (52.57%); David O. Popoola 43 (0.46%); Donte Washington 535 (5.69%); James C. Banks 405 (4.30%); Wilbert C. Baker 377 (4.01%); Liz Diaz 962 (10.22%); Clint D. Horn 1,483 (15.76%). Total 9,409

I am very thankful and humbled. I appreciate the communitys support in my election, and I am looking forward to serving Humble ISD students in my term. Moving forward, I am hoping to bride the gap caused by COVID learning disadvantages for students, said Parker.

Position No. 4 saw the closest race among the elections, with a total of five candidates running on the ballot. It was the only election where a candidate won with a plurality of the vote, with Kirchhofer winning 37 percent of the vote, making him the victor  with Lonnie Jackson a close second. Humble ISD upholds a simple majority election.

The person with the most votes is elected to the position. There will not be a runoff, said Mount.

We are so thankful for all the support we have received over the last six months, from the miracle of me walking then to winning a seat on the board. I want to applaud the 19 candidates that entered the race. It takes a great sacrifice to put your name and beliefs out there. I look forward to serving the school district and strengthening the current school board, Kirchhofer said.

Here are the results: Marques A. Holmes 905 (9.60%); Lonnie Jackson 2,300 (24.41% ); Janie Branham 1,429 (15.17%); Ken Kirchhofer 3,508 (37.23%); Chase Stevens 1,281 (13.59%); Total 9,423

Position No. 5 saw the only dual race between Dixon and Andrea Glazebrook. Dixon won in a landslide vote, garnering 76 percent of the vote.

Here are the results: Andrea Glazebrook 2,106 (23.53%); Martina Lemond Dixon 6,845 (76.47%). Total 8,951

I am humbled, and I look forward to serving the Humble ISD community for the next four years. It is an honor and a pleasure to serve the students across our district, and moving forward, I want to work on having Humble ISD be the best district in the state, said Martina Lemond Dixon.

To view the election results, visit harrisvotes.com/ElectionResults/ElectionDay.
The Police are investigating an alleged gathering by the youth of the Christ Embassy Church at the Fantasy Dome, Trade Fair Centre, Accra, on Friday, April 30, 2021.



The gathering is said to be in flagrant disregard of COVID-19 protocols.



The event, advertised as a Church Service, which ordinarily did not require notice under the Public Order Act, was allegedly organised on the blind side of the Police given COVID-19 restrictions.



A statement issued in Accra by Superintendent of Police, Mrs Sheilla Kessie Abayie-Buckman, Director of Public Affairs, Ghana Police, said the Police had locked up the Fantasy Dome and started questioning leaders of the Church and Management of the Dome about the event.



"Any person found culpable will be arrested and duly prosecuted," it added.



The statement said trending videos of the alleged gathering, dubbed "Pneumatic Night" showed a non-mask-wearing mass crowd, screaming, chanting and dancing to the "evangelism" of non-mask-wearing leaders, putting the entire country at risk of spreading COVID-19.



It said the organizers did not give notice of the event to any Police Officer or Station.



The statement said, meanwhile, a similar event by the Church at UPSA took place on Sunday with strict observance of COVID-19 protocols under police surveillance.



The Police reminded the public that actions that breached the Imposition of Restrictions Act, would be subjected to the sanctions imposed by law.

Source: GNA









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Leading construction Firm Nickseth Construction Limited has come to the aid of female Students of the Bosome Senior High Technical School who had to take their bath in an unroofed makeshift structure with no tiled floors.



The company has constructed an ultramodern bathhouse and laundry complex at a cost of three hundred and fifty thousand cedis (GHc350, 000) by way of Corporate Social Responsibility.



Until this intervention, the rundown structure served 420 students who queued for five-minute turns every morning to take their bath.



Apart from the discomfort, students had to grapple with infections contracted while bathing on the untiled floors.



Board Chair of the company Dr. Godfred Owusu Boateng indicated that his firm learnt about the plight of the students when it was awarded a GETfund contract to construct two dormitories for the school.



When we came here, we saw that they were taking their bath in that structure bordered off by roofing sheets and we were touched by their plight. Despite the tight constraints of COVID 19, our CEO who hails from here Nicholas Frimpong Boateng pushed us to mobilize funds from the companys coffers to help these girls, he pointed out.



The Senior House Mistress Patience Boatemaa Simms was elated issues of infections and snake bites suffered by students who used the bathhouse and nearby bushes to hang their clothes was going to be a thing of the past.



She commended, This time they will not queue; they will feel more relaxed to bath without seniors giving them just five minutes and the issue of infections will not recur.



The laundry and dry lines will save us a lot of trouble because just last weekend, a student was bitten by a snake when she went drying her washed clothes in the grass.



The Ashanti Regional Minister Simon Osei Mensah who graced the commissioning commended the management of Nickseth for partnering the state in delivering the best academic environment for students.



He advised, We pray that those who have the capacity to support the various schools in their area of jurisdiction, can follow this example of Nickseth Construction, and do the little they can also do to help government eradicate the infrastructure deficit in our various schools.



Students benefitting from the facility were relieved the new facility will have a positive impact on their academics and life on campus.



A student Pricilla Naadu averred, The old one was a mess because as ladies, we used to get more than four or five students reporting to the sickbay every day to complain of white but we can now bath in sanitary conditions,



The former bathhouse was in an awkward situation. We had to queue but the establishment of the new one will help us in our time management as students since we dont have to spend time here waiting for our turn to bath, Jeckibed Ayariga intimated.



The project was commissioned along with a twelve-seater toilet facility as well as a boys, and girls dormitory constructed by Nickseth Company with funding from the Ghana Education Trust Fund.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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Award-Winning Ghanaian Screen Diva Abena Kyei Boakye has blessed the lives of many deprived school children at Dome M/A primary School with the necessary stationery required for adequate teaching and learning, Hand Sanitizers, and Sanitary Pads for the Young Ladies.



The donation was part of a Quality Education Project that the TV Presenter foundation has been engaged in to support school children in remote communities and deprived locations across the country.



The Eno Boakyewaa Foundation has been in existence for six years with the singular aim of supporting the lives of disadvantaged and destitute children in Ghana.



Focus areas of the Eno Boakyewaa Foundation include health, education, and total well-being of deprived Ghanaian children.



The items donated included: Nose mask - 1,50pcs, 280 Sanitary Pads, 150 Bottles of Hand Sanitizers, 250 pieces of Exercise Books.



According to the founder and leader of the Eno Boakyewaa Foundation, the entire team was overly excited about the donation and grateful to all and sundry who supported financially. She said:



"This s is to empower them not to accept little gifts from people who will want to lure them to bed just because of sanitary pad. And also advise them to take their studies seriously, that is the only way they can achieve their goals

Giving sanitary pads to as many schools as I can has been a project on my heart and I have a personal story to it which I do not want to share. So my foundation, which is Eno BOAKYEWAA foundation is fronting this project.



Last month we donated to kwabenya cluster of schools. And today I went to Dome M/A primary.



To be able to sustain the projects, she is calling on cooperate Ghana and able philanthropists to support the team either in cash or kind as without their help, the progress of the needy they intend to help will be greatly hindered.



Photos taken on the day of the donation prove that the gesture was truly appreciated as both the school's authorities and the school children could not hide their profound joy.

Source: peacefmonline.com









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" " Timothy Biley /Flickr (CC BY 2.0) Street art in Unidad Park, Filipinotown, Los Angeles, depicting Filipino farmworkers Larry Itliong and Philip Vera Cruz, who banded together with Mexican civil rights activists Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta to boycott non-union grape growers in the Delano grape strike.

As anti-Asian hate crimes surge in the U.S., Asian American scholars and activists have responded by speaking out about their authentic stories, which have often been overlooked in textbooks.

"There are so many stereotypes and myths about Asians in America, and [they] really need to be disabused," says Gary Okihiro, professor emeritus of international and public affairs at Columbia University and author of "Margins and Mainstreams: Asians in American History and Culture."

In fact, Asian Americans have been challenging injustice for a long time, but mainstream narratives don't do justice to the complex history of the vast, diverse Asian American community, which is the fastest growing racial group in the U.S.

According to the 2020 census results, 23 million Asian Americans in the U.S. can trace their ancestry to more than 20 countries, and many of these individuals have roots in the U.S. that span decades and even centuries.

In honor of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, here are five things about Asian Americans that you didn't learn in school, including incredible acts of patriotism and resistance.

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1. The Resistance of the 'No-nos' Was an Act of Patriotism

When Japanese American writer John Okada penned the book, "No-No Boy," in 1957, he brought to light the stories of a brave group of Japanese Americans, who spoke up against their subjugation during World War II.

Following the bombing of Pearl Harbor, the government began to fear that Japanese Americans were enemy agents of Japan, even though two-thirds of Japanese Americans were American citizens, according to Okihiro.

As a result, the government ordered 120,000 Japanese Americans to leave their homes and relocate to internment camps under Executive Order 9066, issued by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.

There was no evidence to support these claims and, decades later, Ronald Reagan declared internment was a "mistake" based solely on race, implicitly recognizing that these fears were rooted in racism.

As the war progressed, the government began seeking Japanese Americans from the camps to serve in the U.S. Army. The government presented residents in the camps with a loyalty questionnaire. Two questions  questions 27 and 28  were particularly controversial, asking Japanese Americans if they would renounce any loyalty to Japan and serve in the U.S. military.

About 6,700 individuals  including a fair number of second-generation Japanese American men, who became known as the "no-no boys"  answered "no" to both questions. By answering "no," they challenged the U.S. government for depriving them of their rights and treating them as enemies.

"The no-nos were responding to this illegal confinement of them  there was no reason given for their mass confinement. There was no justification for holding citizens within those camps," Okihiro says.

For their refusal, the no-no boys were incarcerated in a federal penitentiary at Fort Leavenworth for the duration of the war, according to Okihiro. Okihiro argues that the no-no boys' defiance showed they were "true Americans."

"What they were trying to do was to have the U.S. live up to its constitution and the promises afforded to all citizens. If that's not patriotism, I don't know what is," Okihiro says.

" " The Manzanar War Relocation Center was one of 10 camps where the U.S. government incarcerated Japanese immigrants ineligible for citizenship and Japanese American citizens during World War II. Wikimedia Commons (CC By SA 2.0)

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2. Asian Immigrants Were Denied the Right to Citizenship

While their American-born children were granted citizenship, Asian immigrants could not acquire the same legal status for much of American history.

This lack of citizenship status dates back to the 1790 Nationality Act, which limited citizenship only to "free white persons." But after World War I, many people, including Asian Americans, were seeking citizenship through the courts and demonstrating they were "white."

Two of the most notable were Bhagat Singh Thind, a Sikh immigrant from the Indian subcontinent who served in the U.S. Army, and Takao Ozawa, an immigrant from Japan who had lived in the U.S. for 20 years.

Both appealed to the federal court on racial grounds. Ozawa argued before the Supreme Court in 1922 claiming to be white because he had adopted American culture. Thind argued before SCOTUS in 1923 that he deserved citizenship because he was Caucasian because he grew up in the Caucus Mountains. The court denied both Thind and Ozawas' citizenship based on race.

"The Supreme Court said, "No, you're not white, racially, so you don't qualify," Okihiro says.

Yet, their challenges show how Asian Americans resisted laws that limited their naturalization, believing they were entitled to their full rights as Americans. "Takao Ozawa and Bhagat Singh Thind challenged that exclusion of Asians [as] 'aliens ineligible for citizenship' from 1790," Okihiro says.

Thind, who had served in the army, eventually was granted citizenship in 1936 when a bill was passed providing citizenship to anyone who served. But it wasn't until the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1952 that every Asian immigrant finally became eligible for citizenship under the law of the land.

"Asians were not immigrants like Europeans, and, unlike Europeans, [were] never intended to be citizens of this country by the founders of this nation," Okihiro says. "But despite all that, they stayed, and they made laws for them and their children became American."

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3. Filipino Americans Played a Key Role in the Labor Movement in the U.S.

Even though Filipinos comprise the third largest group of Asian Americans in the U.S., their history has often been overlooked in the history textbooks.

Okihiro describes the Manila galleon trade, which brought Filipino indentured workers to Mexico. From Mexico, the Filipino workers eventually made their way to California, Louisiana and beyond.

Additionally, Filipino indentured workers  along with Japanese and Chinese workers  were brought to work in sugar plantations in Hawaii and on the West Coast to serve as a cheap source of labor.

"Now, these workers who came to Hawaii and to the West Coast, over time, they began to see that they might want to stay here [in the U.S.]. And when they did that, they began to demand rights," Okihiro says.

That led to the formation of unions, with Filipino farmworkers like Larry Itliong and Philip Vera Cruz banding together with Mexican civil rights activists Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta to boycott non-union grape growers in the Delano Grape strike.

Thus, the United Farmworkers' Movement was born. Leaders like Itliong went up and down the coast, from the fields of California to salmon canning industries in Alaska, to organize workers.

"This is an amazing thing, because agricultural workers were never organized by unions, until Asians and Mexicans got together and formed those agricultural unions," Okihiro says.

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4. The Murder of Vincent Chin Was a Sea Change for Asian Americans

A Chinese American man, Vincent Chin, went out for a night on the town with his friends on June 19, 1982. Chin's friends were hosting a bachelor party in advance of his wedding.

But Chin never got to walk down the aisle. Two white men, fueled by racist hatred blaming Japan for the unemployment of Detroit auto workers, identified anyone who seemingly appeared Japanese as a target for their hatred.

"Chin was a Chinese American who was born in the United States, but it didn't matter to them," Okihiro says.

The two white men murdered Chin on that same night in Detroit. For their heinous crime, the murderers received no prison time and only a $3,000 fine.

The ruling in Chin's death sparked a wave of activism among Asian Americans, and his story remains important for Asian Americans to this day. Actress and producer Gemma Chan is working to develop a podcast and film about Chin's life.

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5. There's a Long History of Asian-Black Solidarity in the U.S.

Asian Americans have a long history of speaking up in the face of injustice, but have often been portrayed in the media as the model minority, a trope that depicts Asian Americans as successful, hardworking individuals who don't cause problems or challenge the status quo.

The model minority trope set Asian Americans apart from other minority groups, including African Americans, seemingly driving a wedge between the two communities.

"The model minority, then, arises largely out of the 1960s during the Civil Rights Movement, and African Americans are badass and they're disrupting American society. And the U.S. needed a good, quiet, docile [model] minority," to use as a counterpoint, Okihiro says.

But Okihiro says Asian Americans have long been pushing back against this trope, which ignores their lived history of racism.

Many Asian Americans have recognized the shared struggle between Asians and Black individuals. Asian and Black activists collaborated on the Third World Liberation Front at UC Berkeley, which led to the formation of ethnic studies programs in California. Japanese Amerians also supported African Americans in school desegregation efforts.

"They worked together, the NAACP and the JACL [Japanese American Citizens League], on a discrimination case against Mexican children in California. And from that working together came Brown v. Board of Education," Okihiro says.

However, there is perhaps no one more famous for bridging the divides between the two communities than Japanese American activist, Yuri Kochiyama, who passed away in 2014. Kochiyama was forced to relocate with her family to an internment camp during World War II, which shaped her activism.

As a result of their experiences of "victimization during World War II, many Japanese Americans began to understand that racism against them is allied to racism against black people," says Okihiro.

Kohiyama organized sit-ins to protest civil rights violations and collaborations with the Freedom Riders, who challenged segregation in the South.

Kochiyama also formed a brief friendship with Black activist Malcolm X and was present when he was assassinated.

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Now That's Interesting Portrayals of Asian Americans in mainstream media, like the movie "Crazy Rich Asians," often focus on highly affluent individuals. However, a 2018 Pew report found Asian Americans had the highest income inequality of any racial group in the U.S, due in large part to stark differences in education level and migration patterns between individuals from different regions of Asia.
The day after Daunte Wright was fatally shot by a police officer at a traffic stop in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota, on April 11, in the midst of the murder trial against the former Minneapolis police officer who killed George Floyd, officials opted to quickly release some of the body camera footage. The video shows the officer, who has since resigned and has been charged with second-degree manslaughter, shouting, Taser, suggesting she mistook one weapon for another. The swift release, which was not required by law, came after a night of particularly intense demonstrations in which police fired tear gas and rubber bullets.
Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

Anxiety disorders are among the most prevalent disorders for Black emerging adults 18 to 29 years of age in America. Frequent exposure to police violence among Black emerging adults puts this population at risk for increased rates of anxiety disorders, according to a new study from researchers at Washington University in St. Louis and presented at the American Psychiatric Association's Annual Meeting, held online.

The study, led by Robert Motley, Ph.D., Race and Opportunity Lab Manager at Washington University in Saint Louis, assessed the prevalence and correlates of anxiety related to police contact among Black emerging adults. Researchers examined the association between sociodemographic factors, community violence exposure, experiences of being a victim, witnessing and seeing a video of police use of force, and levels of anxiety that Black emerging adults reported experiencing during or in anticipation of police contact. Computer assisted surveys were used to collect data from 300 Black students (age 18-29) enrolled at a community college or university in St. Louis, Missouri.

On average, the participants had been a victim of police use of force nearly two times; had witnessed in person police use force against someone more than seven times; and had seen video in the media of police use of force more than 34 times. Participants were also asked about having witnessed community violenceon average participants had witnessed more than 10 incidents of community violence in their lifetimes.

Three 4-point Likert police contact anxiety scales, ranging from 0 = not at all, to 3 = severely, were used to assess the severity of anxiety symptoms a participant experienced in the past 30 days during or in anticipation of police contact as a result of 1) being a victim, 2) witnessing, or 3) seeing a video of police use of force in the media. Examples of survey items include:

As a result of being a victim of police use of force, "Worry about police contact (e.g., being alone during police contact, experiencing police contact at night, experiencing police contact in a secluded area)"

As a result of witnessing in person police use force on another individual, "Fearful of police contact (e.g., losing my life, being assaulted, or falsely accused of a crime during police contact), and

As a result of seeing a video of a real-life incident of police use of force in the media (e.g., television, or internet/social media), "Urge to avoid police contact (e.g., dressing differently, not calling police when I or others are in need of help)."

Police contact anxiety as a result of being a victim of police use of force (Mean = 13.68, SD = 4.94), witnessing in person police use of force (Mean = 13.35, SD = 5.10), and seeing a video in the media of police use of force (Mean = 13.01, SD = 4.41) was moderately high (range of 6-24) for study participants.

Being male, unemployed, and having witnessed more community violence were significantly associated with greater police contact anxiety. Participants who were unemployed were more likely to have increased police contact anxiety as a result of seeing a video in the media of police use of force compared to those who were employed. Participants who reported more past experiences of witnessing community violence were more likely to have increased police contact anxiety as a result of being a victim of police use of force than those who had witnessed it less often.

The authors suggest their findings of black emerging adults experiencing moderately high rates of police contact anxiety can help inform clinical practice with ethnic minorities experiencing various forms of police use of force exposure.

Explore further Witnessing police stops more likely to cause emotional distress for youth of color
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According to a new public opinion poll released today by the American Psychiatric Association (APA), concern about COVID-19 remains high, especially concern over loved ones, and more people are reporting mental health impacts from pandemic than last year. Parents are especially concerned about their children's mental well-being.

Americans are more anxious about family and loved ones catching the coronavirus (64%) than about catching the virus themselves (49%). Moreover, concern toward family and loved ones catching the virus has increased since last year, from 56% then to 64% now. Hispanics/Latinos (73%) and African Americans/Blacks (76%) are more anxious about COVID-19 than whites (59%).

More than four in ten Americans (41%) say they are more anxious than last year. While still substantial, that is down from just over 60% last year. Young adults, ages 18 to 29 (49%), and Hispanic/Latinos (50%) are more likely to say they are more anxious now compared to last year. Those 65 and older (30%) are less likely to say they feel more anxious than last year.

"This poll shows that even as vaccines become more widespread, Americans are still worried about the mental state of their children," said APA President Jeffrey Geller, M.D., M.P.H. "This is a call to action for policymakers, who need to remember that in our COVID-19 recovery, there's no health without mental health."

"While most people, including most children, will likely adapt and recover well as we emerge from the pandemic, we know from previous research that for some, the mental health impacts of this trauma and distress will continue to have repercussions into the future," said APA CEO and Medical Director Saul Levin, M.D., M.P.A. "We need to be prepared to help those who need it in the coming months and years."

More than four in 10 adults (43%) report the pandemic has had a serious impact on their mental health, up from 37% in 2020. Fifty nine percent of younger adults are more likely to report a serious impact on their mental health due to the pandemic. More than half (54%) of 30 to 44-year-olds also report a serious mental health impact; fewer older adults (24%) report serious mental health impacts.

Slightly fewer Americans report that the coronavirus pandemic is affecting their day-to-day life now compared to a year ago, such as problems sleeping (19% down from 22%), difficulties concentrating (18% down from 20%) and fighting more with loved ones (16% down from 17%). The percentage of adults consuming more alcohol or other substances/drugs than normal, increased slightly since last year from 14% to 17%. Additionally, 33% of adults (40% of women) report gaining weight during the pandemic.

Concern About Children's Mental Well-being

Concern over the mental wellbeing of children and teens is clearly an important issue for parents. More than half of adults (53%) with children under 18 in their household say they are concerned about the mental state of their children and almost half (48%) say the pandemic has caused mental health problems for one or more of their children, including minor problems for 29% and major problems for 19%. More than a quarter (26%) of parents say have sought professional mental health help for their children because of the pandemic.

Nearly half (49%) of parents surveyed who have children under 18 say their child has received help from a mental health professional since the start of the pandemic. Among those receiving help, 23% say they received help from a primary care professional, 18% from a psychiatrist, 15% a psychologist, 13% a therapist, 10% a social worker, and 10% a school counselor or school psychologist. More than one in five parents have had trouble scheduling appointments for their child with a mental health professional.

COVID-19 Vaccines

Just over three-quarters (76%) of Americans say they have been or intend to get vaccinated; 22% say they don't intend to get vaccinated; and 2% didn't know. Among those who do not intend to be vaccinated, the primary concern (53%) is about side effects of the vaccine. Other reasons for not getting vaccinated include believing it is not effective (31%), believing the makers of the vaccine aren't being honest about what's in it (27%) and fear/anxiety about needles (12%).

The full results are available here. The new findings come from an APA-sponsored online survey conducted March 26April 5, 2021, among a sample of 1,000 adults 18 years of age and older. The equivalent margin of error is +/-3.1 percentage points.

Explore further CRISIS survey yields insights to psychological impact of COVID-19

More information: APA 2021 Public Opinion Poll: Topline Results: APA 2021 Public Opinion Poll: Topline Results: www.psychiatry.org/newsroom/ap  -2021-annual-meeting
New NASA head Bill Nelson takes over as the US looks to return to the Moon

Former Florida senator Bill Nelson was sworn in Monday as head of NASA, hailing a "new day" for space exploration as the United States seeks to return to the Moon.

With his hand on a Bible, Nelson took the oath of office from Vice President Kamala Harris as he officially took up the role of NASA administrator.

"It's a new day in space," he said, after bringing a Moon rock to the event.

Nelson, 78, who traveled into space in 1986, takes over the agency with the United States hoping to put astronauts back on the Moon by 2024.

Humans last set foot on the Moon in 1972 during the Apollo program.

Under the Artemis program, NASA wants to establish a sustainable presence, complete with a lunar space station, to test new technologies that would pave the way for a crewed mission to Mars.

In 2019, then vice president Mike Pence challenged NASA to land the first woman and the next man on the Moon by 2024, and President Joe Biden's government has backed the same timetable.

Charlie Bolden, administrator under Barack Obama, attended Monday's ceremony, while former administrator Jim Bridenstine, who served under Donald Trump, joined by video call.

Nelson said their presence was "to show the continuity and the bipartisanship, with which you run the nation's space program, particularly NASA."

In 1986, Nelson, a sitting lawmaker, was a crew member on the Space Shuttle Columbia during a six-day mission in space, and has since sat on many congressional committees on space and science.

"NASA is critical to US national and economic security," Harris said on Twitter.

"With decades of experience and as a former astronaut, Bill Nelson will advance NASA's science, aviation, and technology missions as Administrator."

Explore further Biden picks former senator who flew in space to lead NASA

 2021 AFP
CMD of NGC 1261 from the photometry of Kravtsov et al. (2010, left panel) and Kiel diagram (right panel). The two investigated stars are indicated as red symbols. Credit: Koc-Hansen et al., 2021.

Using the Magellan Inamori Kyocera Echelle (MIKE) spectrograph, astronomers have conducted a chemical abundance study of a galactic globular cluster known as NGC 1261. Results of the research, published April 22 on arXiv.org, provide insights into chemical composition of this cluster.

Globular clusters (GCs) are collections of tightly bound stars orbiting galaxies. Astronomers perceive them as natural laboratories enabling studies on the evolution of stars and galaxies. In particular, globular clusters could help researchers better understand the formation history and evolution of early type galaxies, as the origin of GCs seems to be closely linked to periods of intense star formation.

At a distance of some 53,000 light years, NGC 1261 is a GC in the Milky Way's outer halo. The cluster is 10.3 billion years old, has a mass of about 341,000 solar masses, and metallicity at a level of -1.38. The chemical composition of NGC 1261 is still poorly understood, however some studies managed to determine abundance ratios for over 20 elements and suggested that multiple stellar populations may be present in this GC.

A team of astronomers led by Andreas J. Koc-Hansen of the Heidelberg University, Germany, decided to take a closer look at NGC 1261, focusing on its chemical properties. By employing the MIKE spectrograph mounted on the 6.5 m Magellan2/Clay Telescope at the Las Campanas Observatory, Chile, they performed a chemical abundance analysis of this cluster.

MIKE allowed the researchers to measure 31 species of 29 elements in two stars of NGC 1261, by conducting a standard analysis based on equivalent width (EW) measurements and spectral synthesis. The results suggest that the cluster is moderately metal poorwith a metallicity of approximately -1.26. However, despite its relatively low metallicity, it showcases heavy element abundances that are consistent with r-process nucleosynthesis.

"In particular the Eu-overabundance quantitatively suggests that one single r-process event, such as a neutron-star neutron-star merger or a rare kind of supernova, can be responsible for the stellar enhancement or even the cluster's enrichment with the excess r-material," the scientists noted.

Moreover, the study found that the light elements like sodium (Na), oxygen (O), magnesium (Mg), and aluminum (Al) differ significantly between the two investigated stars, in contrast to the majority of other elements with smaller scatter. This supports the scenario that multiple generations of stars coexis in NGC 1261.

All in all, the results of the study provide some hints regarding the origin of NGC 1261. According to the authors of the paper, this GC was born in the Gaia-Enceladus galaxy and has been subsequently accreted into the galactic halo. It is assumed that Gaia-Enceladus merged with the Milky Way between 8 and 11 billion years ago. The researchers added that in general NGC 1261 appears chemically very similar to Gaia-Enceladus in that it occupies the same mean metallicity and alpha-enhancement.

"Thus far, the merger-GC ties are likely, but to further sculpt this picture, the addition of a chemical abundance space is imperative," they concluded.

Explore further Chilean researchers investigate chemical composition of globular cluster NGC 6553

More information: NGC 1261: an r-process enhanced globular cluster from the Gaia-Enceladus event, arXiv:2104.11243 [astro-ph.GA] NGC 1261: an r-process enhanced globular cluster from the Gaia-Enceladus event, arXiv:2104.11243 [astro-ph.GA] arxiv.org/abs/2104.11243

 2021 Science X Network
Chinas HTOL spaceplane concept. Credit: CALT/Eric Berger

Last weekend, China celebrated its sixth "National Space Day" in Nanjing, an event that highlights advances China has made in space. Similar to Space Day that is held each year on the first Thursday in May (this year, it will be held on May 7th), the goal is to foster interest in space exploration and the STEMS so as to inspire the next generation of astronauts and aerospace engineers.

This year, the festivities focused on the Chang'e-5 mission (which showcased some of the lunar samples it brought back), and the name of China's first Mars rover (Zhurong)  which will be landing on the Red Planet later this month. But another interesting snippet was a video presented by one of China's main rocket manufacturers that showed demonstrated that they are working on a rocket similar to the Starship.

The video, titled "One Hour Global Arrival in the Space Transportation System," was presented by the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology (CALT)  one of the country's main state-owned rocket manufacturers. Similar to what Musk and SpaceX have proposed for the Starship, the video explores the potential for rocket systems that could deliver suborbital point-to-point transportation services.

The animation was recorded and uploaded to the Chinese social network Weibo, which was accompanied by the following description (translated directly from Mandarin).

"The promotional animation of 'One-Hour Global Arrival in Space Transportation System' of the First Academy of Aerospace Engineering, compare? This afternoon was recorded from [2021 Chinese Astronomy Day] Booth of China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology at the Aerospace Industry Achievement Exhibition. If you want to make an appointment to visit Lunar Land, please go to the bottom of this blog."

In the video, we can see two different concepts for achieving suborbital passenger flights that could be operational by the 2040s. The video came to the attention of Eric Berger at Ars Technica, which mirrored it on Youtube so that it could reach a wider audience. The animation begins by showing a spaceport with several launch pads nearby. On each, we see two-stage vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) rockets that look strikingly similar to the Starship and Super Heavy.

Also similar to the Starship is the way the first stage booster returns to Earth after separation, indicating that it is a totally reusable system. We then see passengers scening views of Earth and experiencing temporary weightlessness before the spacecraft begins making a powered descent. The flight ends with the spacecraft landing in a major city clearly several time zones away (since it's nighttime where they land).

In addition to its appearance and configuration, the animation is also similar to the "Earth to Earth" concept video released by SpaceX in September of 2017 (shown below). In that animation, a Starship ferries passengers from a platform at sea off the coast of New York and land on a similar platform off the coast of Shanghai in just 34 minutes.

The second point-to-point concept in the Chinese animation shows a horizontal takeoff and landing (HTOL) vehicle being launched via an electromagnetic rail. Once this "spaceplane" is catapulted into the air, it engages what appears to be a hybrid-propellant rocket engine to accelerate from Mach 2 to Mach 15 (supersonic to hypersonic) and achieve suborbital flight.

Both of these concepts incorporate technology and ideas that are widely popular right now with both space agencies and commercial space. Between NASA, the ESA, SpaceX, Blue Origin, Sierra Nevada, Reaction Engines, and other federal and private programs, multiple reusable rocket and spaceplane concepts are currently under development.

Credit: SpaceX

What's more, both are consistent with China's long-term aim to become the world's leading space power by 2045. According to the roadmap released by the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation in 2017, China hopes to develop a "suborbital carrier vehicle" by 2025 that will eventually grow into a fleet, one which is capable of delivering cargo anywhere in the world by 2035 and passengers by 2045.

However, the clear resemblance between CALT's rocket concept and the Starship is also in keeping with the way China has monitored SpaceX's progress practically from inception. As Eric Berger noted in his recently-published book Liftoffwhich recounts the early struggles of SpaceXa Chinese spy boat was stationed off the coast of Omelek Island (part of the Marshall Islands, South Pacific) in 2006 to watch the inaugural flight of the Falcon 1.

More recent examples include the incorporation of "grid fins" to the Long March 2C rocket (similar to the Falcon 9) for the sake of future reusability, as well as developing the Long March 8 to land on sea platforms. China's long-term plan for the Long March 9which will be the country's most powerful heavy-lift system once it is in service (slated for the 2030s)  includes making it partly reusable.

In the meantime, it is not clear if China plans to develop a Starship-like rocket would include equipping it for missions to the moon and Mars (in addition to point-to-point suborbital flights). But since regular missions to the moon and Mars were also part of the roadmap, it's entirely possible China intends to adopt the Starship design and mission profile in its entirety.

One thing is for certain: China intends to be the superpower in space by the mid-21st century, and not merely one of several. While they have some catch-up to do before that can happen, their rate of growth is unparalleled.

Explore further SpaceX Starship rocket test ends in another failure: Musk
Credit: CC0 Public Domain

California clean tech innovator Bloom Energy, with its noncombustion, low-emission fuel cells, is hardly taking the same approach to powering the planet as oil giant Chevron, but one thing the companies have in common are slick promotional campaigns defining them as environmental pioneers.

That public relations savvy, though, has lately become a liability for both firms.

As they grapple with accusations of exaggerating their place in the green economy, many other businesses are taking notice. A push by the Biden administration and the state of California could soon force all public companies to be far more forthright about their preparednessor lack thereoffor the disruptions created by climate change and about the size of their carbon footprint.

Unlocking the black box of corporate secrecy is a central pillar of federal and state plans for confronting warming, which are increasingly focused on requiring a wide range of businesses, including financial firms, food suppliers and tech giants, to be painstakinglyperhaps uncomfortablyspecific with investors and the public. Even secret contributions to advocacy and political groups could soon be forced into the daylight.

"Companies can't say they have all these policies to reach goals and not pursue them," said Hana V. Vizcarra, a staff attorney at the Harvard Law School Environmental and Energy Law Program. "Regulators are really interested in this."

A frenzy of activity aimed at forcing corporate climate transparency is underway at the White House, in the California Capitol in Sacramento, and across federal financial regulatory agencies. The results could be transformative, potentially mandating that companies go beyond just revealing the emissions their products create to probing their supply chains, the pollution created when their products are discarded and possibly even the carbon footprint created by day-to-day business activities such as employee travel.

The claims against Chevron and Bloommade independent of the regulatory pushsignal the kinds of pressure many more firms may soon face as transparency efforts gain momentum.

Chevron's marketing campaigns portraying the firm as a leader in clean energy and environmental justice moved the groups Greenpeace, Earthworks and Global Witness to allege the messaging is wildly out of step with the company's actual record, violating federal rules against "greenwashing."

Testing the Biden administration's resolve to demand companies step up their transparency around climate, the groups in April filed a novel complaint with the Federal Trade Commission. The oil company calls the filing frivolous, saying in a statement that it is working determinedly to "reduce the carbon intensity of our operations and assets" and "increase the use of renewables and offsets."

Bloom also finds itself in an awkward place. A chancery judge in Delaware ordered Bloom to open some of the company's books to an investor suspicious that the firm exaggerates how green its fuel cell technology actually is. Bloom has argued that the investor's charges, driven by a research report from a group of short-sellers, are inaccurate and misleading. But the court was persuaded by the plaintiff's argument that if the allegations are true, Bloom could be at risk of losing green tech subsidies crucial to the firm's financial health.

The pressures parallel a much broader push inside the Securities and Exchange Commissionand in the governor's office and Legislature in Californiato require thousands more companies to disclose a trove of data that reveals their financial vulnerabilities to climate change and the extent to which they are contributing to it.

The disclosures would force companies to dive deep into the ways their operations are vulnerable to risks such as extreme temperatures, flooding and wildfires. And companies would need to demonstrate how they plan to keep up with the big shifts in the economy that climate change is causing, such as the electrification of cars and trucks.

"We don't want to have an extra page or two added to the 10-K [corporate financial report] loaded with greenwash and banal statements," Rep. Brad Sherman (D-Northridge) said during a recent hearing of the investor protection panel he heads for the House Financial Services Committee. "We need to define and hopefully have numerical standards, measure, tabulate. We want to change the behavior of corporations."

The California effort, focused on companies that do business with the state, was motivated by the declaration of bankruptcy by Pacific Gas & Electric just days after Gavin Newsom was sworn in as governor in 2019. The electricity giant's failure to upgrade its equipment to withstand extreme weather led to the wildfires that wiped out communities and killed dozens. The PG&E financial collapse was dubbed the nation's first "climate bankruptcy."

The company had not revealed its massive vulnerabilities in public disclosures.

"It really hit home for us then how these climate risks for the companies the state is doing business with are a big fiscal issue," said Kate Gordon, director of the governor's Office of Planning and Research. She said the state is working closely with the Biden administration on assessing what companies should be pushed to reveal climate data.

Though disclosure rules imposed by the Newsom administration would only apply to state contractors, they could become a template for the SEC to use for all public corporations.

"California can play a leadership role in laying down a marker," said former state Insurance Commissioner Dave Jones, who sits on the state advisory panel examining the issue.

Some of the country's most influential corporations are embracing the push. The current patchwork of largely voluntary guidelines offers little clarity on how much disclosure of climate vulnerability and action is enough. Many companies are looking for a level playing field that does not put them at risk of sharing sensitive data that competitors keep secret.

The San Francisco-based cloud computing giant Salesforce enlisted in the push as President Joe Biden launched his global climate summit in late April. "We are in a climate emergency," Salesforce said in a statement endorsing the SEC's transparency campaign. "There must be a globally recognized and formally governed reporting standard."

Yet others are more reluctant, anticipating that the inside information forced out in the open by new rules will give climate activists new leverage as they target companies with charges of greenwashing and securities fraud.

Republican politicians are mobilizing to block the Biden administration's effort. Lawmakers clashed over the issue at the recent confirmation hearing of the new SEC chairman, Gary Gensler, a proponent of pushing companies to disclose their climate risks.

Republican Sen. Pat Toomey of Pennsylvania accused Gensler of seeking to use the agency's "regulatory powers to advance a liberal social and cultural agenda on issues ranging from climate change to racial inequality."

West Virginia Attorney General Patrick Morrisey, who is threatening to sue, accused the SEC in a March letter of "federal overreach and political activism at its worst."

The debate has spilled over to the U.S. Federal Reserve, which is signaling that banks are going to need to take a far more proactive role in analyzing and disclosing the climate risks not just of their own operations, but of the companies they are investing in.

Its board voted unanimously in December to join the international Network for the Greening of the Financial System, which promotes aggressive action in the sector to confront global warming and move more capital toward low-carbon investment. Other than the Reserve Bank of India, every other central bank in the world had joined before the U.S.

The move nonetheless sparked protests from dozens of House Republicans. Rep. Andy Barr of Kentucky wrote in an op-ed for CNBC that the move was geared toward "causing financial stress for industries that climate extremists hate."

The transparency fight is getting underway in the U.S. as many of its allies are far ahead in requiring companies to report their climate risks. France in 2016 began mandating that its large investment firms and pension funds disclose extensive information about their exposure to global warming and plans to confront it.

In the years that followed, according to a Banque de France study, those subject to the law cut their investments in fossil fuels by 40% more than the country's banks, which were not subject to the law.

"We can't reach our net-zero future without climate disclosure," said Steven Rothstein, a managing director at Ceres, the nonprofit that engages business leaders in setting and reaching sustainability goals. "You can't manage what you can't measure."

Explore further In world first, New Zealand to make banks report climate impact

2021 the Los Angeles Times

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Credit: CC0 Public Domain

Belief in conspiracies about the COVID-19 pandemic increased through the early months of the U.S. outbreak among people who reported being heavy users of conservative and social media, a study by Annenberg Public Policy Center (APPC) researchers has found.

Prior APPC research found that people who regularly used conservative or social media during the early months of the pandemic were more likely to report believing in a group of COVID-19 conspiracies. The current study expands on that, finding that a reliance on conservative or social media actually predicted an increase in conspiracy beliefs from March to July 2020.

From March to July 2020, for example, the share of conservative media users who reported believing that the Chinese government created the coronavirus as a bioweapon rose from 52% to 66%. Conservative media included sources such as Fox News, Rush Limbaugh, Breitbart News, One America News, and the Drudge Report.

Further, these increases in conspiracy beliefs were associated with less mask wearing and decreased intentions to get a vaccine when it became available, according to the study, published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research.

"The media played a role in the promotion or reduction of conspiracy beliefs," said Dan Romer, research director of the Annenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania, who co-authored the study with APPC Director Kathleen Hall Jamieson. "There were media sources that hindered the ability of the country to confront the pandemic."

Although some social media platforms said they downgraded or removed false or misleading content about the pandemic, the ongoing use of social media was also correlated with an increased belief in COVID-19 conspiracies.

"The major social media platforms are playing Whac-A-Mole with COVID conspiracy purveyors," Jamieson said. "Block their imaginings in one place and they reappear in another."

A Chinese bioweapon and other COVID-19 conspiracy beliefs

The researchers conducted an Annenberg Science Knowledge (ASK) survey using a national U.S. probability sample in March 2020 and again in July 2020 with the same group of 840 adults. The respondents were asked about three conspiracy beliefs, media use, steps taken to prevent the spread of the virus, and their intentions to be vaccinated, among other things.

In July, the researchers found these levels of overall acceptance of the conspiracy beliefs, with the overall sample rating them either "definitely true" or "probably true":

17% of U.S. adults reported believing that "the pharmaceutical industry created the coronavirus to increase sales of its drugs and vaccines," up from 15% in March;

32% reported believing that some in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) "are exaggerating the danger posed by the coronavirus to damage the Trump presidency," up from 24% in March; and

38% reported believing that "the coronavirus was created by the Chinese government as a biological weapon," up from 28% in March.

From March to July 2020, conservative media users' belief that the pharmaceutical industry created the virus rose from 13% to 28%, and that some in the CDC were exaggerating the danger of the virus to damage the Trump presidency went from 34% to 61%.

In 2020, Fox News host Tucker Carlson, for instance, frequently discussed the conspiracy theory that the novel coronavirus was bioengineered in a Chinese lab. And Rush Limbaugh alleged that "the coronavirus is being weaponized as yet another element to bring down Donald Trump" and that "it probably is a ChiCom [Chinese Communist] laboratory experiment that is in the process of being weaponized."

Mainstream news sources

While the use of conservative media and social media were associated with increased belief in conspiracies, use of the mainstream print media had the opposite association. The researchers found that regular use of the mainstream print media such as the Associated Press, New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and Washington Post predicted a decline in these conspiracy beliefs, which was related to greater mask wearing and greater intentions to get vaccinated.

"When mainstream news treats conspiracy theories, it is to raise concerns about the effects of accepting them, not to legitimize them," Romer said.

People who relied on mainstream television news (such as ABC, NBC, and CBS News) didn't exhibit any change in their beliefs in conspiracies after controlling for their other media use. "People who get a lot of information from mainstream TV news were also more likely to want to be vaccinated and were more likely to wear masks, but that wasn't related to whether or not they believed in conspiracies," said Romer. "It operated independently."

The findings illustrate the importance of mainstream broadcast TV news in informing the country about effective means of confronting the pandemic during the months from March to July 2020.

The media and public health authorities

The researchers suggested that the findings "point to the need for greater efforts on the part of commentators, reporters, and guests on conservative media to report verifiable information about the pandemic. The results also suggest that social media platforms need to be more aggressive in downgrading, blocking, and counteracting claims about COVID-19 vaccines, claims about mask wearing, and conspiracy beliefs that have been judged problematic by public health authorities."

At the same time, the researchers said, public health authorities seeking to prevent the spread of the virus "should seek opportunities to present accurate information about the pandemic to users" of conservative and social media. Reaching users of mainstream news media is also important because they were "either less likely to subscribe to conspiracy beliefs (in the case of print) or more likely to adopt protective behavior (in the case of broadcast television news)."

Explore further Belief in conspiracy theories is a barrier to controlling spread of COVID-19

More information: Daniel Romer et al, Patterns of Media Use, Strength of Belief in COVID-19 Conspiracy Theories, and the Prevention of COVID-19 From March to July 2020 in the United States: Survey Study, Journal of Medical Internet Research (2021). Journal information: Journal of Medical Internet Research Daniel Romer et al, Patterns of Media Use, Strength of Belief in COVID-19 Conspiracy Theories, and the Prevention of COVID-19 From March to July 2020 in the United States: Survey Study,(2021). DOI: 10.2196/25215

Provided by Annenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania
Rapidly rotating neutron stars may be humming continuous gravitational waves. Credit: K. Wette.

When searching for lost keys, there are a number of possible strategies. You might try moving from room to room, casting your eye over every flat surface, in the hope of spotting the missing keys. Of course, this assumes that they are somewhere in plain sight; if they're hidden under a newspaper or have fallen behind the sofa, you'll never spot them. So which is the best strategy?

Scientists face a similar conundrum in the hunt for gravitational wavesripples in the fabric of space and timefrom rapidly spinning neutron stars. These stars are the densest objects in the universe and, provided they're not perfectly spherical, emit a very faint "hum" of continuous gravitational waves. Hearing this "hum" would allow scientists to peer deep inside a neutron star and discover its secrets, yielding new insights into the most extreme states of matter. However, our very sensitive "ears"4-kilometer-sized detectors using powerful lasershaven't heard anything yet.

Part of the challenge is that, like the missing keys, scientists aren't sure of the best search strategy. Most previous studies have taken the "room-to-room" approach, trying to find continuous gravitational waves in as many different places as possible. But this means you can only spend a limited amount of time listening for the telltale hum in any one locationin the same way that you can only spend so long staring at your coffee table trying to discern a key-shaped object. And since the "hum" is very quiet, there's a good chance you won't even hear it.

In a recently published study, a team of scientists, led by postdoctoral researcher Karl Wette from the ARC Center of Excellence for Gravitational Wave Discovery (OzGrav) at the Australian National University, tried the "where else could they be but the kitchen?" approach.

Wette explains: "We took an educated guess at a specific location where continuous gravitational waves might be, based in part on what we already know about pulsarsthey're like neutron stars but send out radio waves instead of continuous gravitational waves. We hypothesized that there would be continuous gravitational waves detected near pulsar radio waves." Just like guessing that your missing keys will probably be close to your handbag or wallet.

Using existing observational data, the team spent a lot of time searching in this location (nearly 6,000 days of computer time) listening carefully for that faint hum. They also used graphic processing unitsspecialist electronics normally used for computer gamesto run their algorithms super-fast.

"Our search was significantly more sensitive than any previous search for this location," says Wette. "Unfortunately, we didn't hear anything, so our guess was wrong this time. It's back to the drawing board for now, but we'll keep listening."

Explore further Deciphering the lives of double neutron stars in radio and gravitational wave astronomy

More information: Karl Wette et al. Deep exploration for continuous gravitational waves at 171172 Hz in LIGO second observing run data, Physical Review D (2021). Journal information: Physical Review D Karl Wette et al. Deep exploration for continuous gravitational waves at 171172 Hz in LIGO second observing run data,(2021). DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevD.103.083020
Credit: Shutterstock

Limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees C this century is a central goal of the Paris Agreement. In recent months, climate experts and others, including in Australia, have suggested the target is now impossible.

Whether Earth can stay within 1.5 degrees C warming involves two distinct questions. First, is it physically, technically and economically feasible, considering the physics of the Earth system and possible rates of societal change? Science indicates the answer is "yes"although it will be very difficult and the best opportunities for success lie in the past.

The second question is whether governments will take sufficient action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This answer depends on the ambition of governments, and the effectiveness of campaigning by non-government organizations and others.

So scientifically speaking, humanity can still limit global warming to 1.5C this century. But political action will determine whether it actually does. Conflating the two questions amounts to misplaced punditry, and is dangerous.

1.5 degrees C wasn't plucked from thin air

The Paris Agreement was adopted by 195 countries in 2015. The inclusion of the 1.5 degrees C warming limit came after a long push by vulnerable, small-island and least developed countries for whom reaching that goal is their best chance for survival. The were backed by other climate-vulnerable nations and a coalition of high-ambition countries.

The 1.5 degrees C limit wasn't plucked from thin airit was informed by the best available science. Between 2013 and 2015, an extensive United Nations review process determined that limiting warming to 2 degrees C this century cannot avoid dangerous climate change.

Since Paris, the science on 1.5 degrees C has expanded rapidly. An Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report in 2018 synthesized hundreds of studies and found rapidly escalating risks in global warming between 1.5 degrees C and 2 degrees C.

The landmark report also changed the climate risk narrative away from a somewhat unimaginable hothouse world in 2100, to a very real threat within most of our lifetimesone which climate action now could help avoid.

The message was not lost on a world experiencing ever more climate impacts firsthand. It galvanized an unprecedented global youth and activist movement demanding action compatible with the 1.5 degrees C limit.

The near-term benefits of stringent emissions reduction are becoming ever clearer. It can significantly reduce near-term warming rates and increase the prospects for climate resilient development.

A matter of probabilities

The IPCC looked extensively at emission reductions required to pursue the 1.5 degrees C limit. It found getting on a 1.5 degrees C track is feasible but would require halving global emissions by 2030 compared to 2010 and reaching net-zero emissions by mid-century.

It found no published emission reduction pathways giving the world a likely (more than 66%) chance of limiting peak warming this century to 1.5 degrees C. But it identified a range of pathways with about a one-in-two chance of achieving this, with no or limited overshoot.

Having about a one-in-two chance of limiting warming to 1.5 degrees C is not ideal. But these pathways typically have a greater than 90% chance of limiting warming to well below 2 degrees C, and so are fully compatible with the overall Paris goal.

Don't rely on carbon budgets

Carbon budgets show the amount of carbon dioxide that can be emitted for a given level of global warming. Some point to carbon budgets to argue the 1.5 degrees C goal is now impossible.

But carbon budget estimates are nuanced, and not a suitable way to conclude a temperature level is no longer possible.

The carbon budget for 1.5 degrees C depends on several factors, including:

the likelihood with which warming will be be halted at 1.5

the extent to which non-CO greenhouse emissions such as methane are reduced

uncertainties in how the climate responds these emissions.

These uncertainties mean strong conclusions cannot be drawn based on single carbon budget estimate. And, at present, carbon budgets and other estimates do not support any argument that limiting warming to 1.5 degrees C is impossible.

Keeping temperature rises below 1.5 degrees C cannot be guaranteed, given the history of action to date, but the goal is certainly not impossible. As any doctor embarking on a critical surgery would say about a one-in-two survival chance is certainly no reason not to do their utmost.

Closer than we've ever been

It's important to remember the special role the 1.5 degrees C goal plays in how governments respond to climate change. Five years on from Paris, and the gains of including that upper ambition in the agreement are showing.

Some 127 countries aim to achieve net-zero emissions by mid-century at the latestsomething considered unrealistic just a few years ago. If achieved globally and accompanied by stringent near-term reductions, the actions could be in line with 1.5 degrees C.

If all these countries were to deliver on these targets in line with the best-available science on net zero, we may have a one-in-two chance of limiting warming this century to 2.1 degrees C (but a meager one-in-ten that it is kept to 1.5C). Much more work is needed and more countries need to step up. But for the first time, current ambition brings the 1.5 degrees C limit within striking distance.

The next ten years are crucial, and the focus now must be on governments' 2030 targets for emissions reduction. If these are not set close enough to a 1.5 degrees C-compatible emissions pathway, it will be increasingly difficult to reach net-zero by 2050.

The United Kingdom and European Union are getting close to this pathway. The United States' new climate targets are a major step forward, and China is moving in the right direction. Australia is now under heavy scrutiny as it prepares to update its inadequate 2030 target.

The UN wants a 1.5 degrees C pathway to be the focus at this year's COP26 climate summit in Glasgow. The stakes could not be higher.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
As you become depressed or suicidal, you begin to doubt that anything or anybody can help you, he said. Youll actually talk yourself out of getting exactly what you may need, which is why we push for the bystander, the person who knows you and listens to you, who can persuade you to get help  and they can take you to get that help.
Located in the desert of northern New Mexico, the data from GPS site P028 contributes to geologic studies of the Rio Grande Rift. A continental rift is a place where the Earth's crust is being pulled apart very slowly. Credit: UNAVCO

Two of the most destructive forces of natureearthquakes and tsunamismight actually be more of a threat than current estimates according to new research conducted by scientists at The University of New Mexico and the Nanyang Technological University published today in Nature Geoscience.

The researchers developed a new method to assess earthquake and tsunami hazards represented by the most distant part of offshore subduction zones and found that the hazard might have been systematically underestimated in some areas, meaning that tsunami risk assessments should be redone given the new results. The findings have important implications for the mitigation of risk in affected areas worldwide, including Southeast Asia and the Pacific Rim, in the event of future earthquakes and tsunamis.

Megathrust earthquakes are among the most powerful earthquakes experienced worldwide and occur in subduction zones, where two tectonic plates converge, and one slides under the other. The plates move toward each other continuously, but if the interface, or fault, between them is stuck, then a slip deficit builds up over time. Like a debt, this slip deficit has to be paid off eventually, and for tectonic plates pay day is earthquake day. When these earthquakes affect the shallowest part of the fault near the seafloor, they have the potential to shift the seafloor upward and create devastating tsunamis as well.

Understanding the potential rupture behavior of megathrusts, particularly in the shallow offshore part of the fault where most destructive tsunamis are generated, is therefore a critical task for geoscientists forecasting seismic and tsunami inundation hazards. The likelihood of seismic behavior is often assumed to be somewhat low in the shallow part of the fault, based on laboratory studies of recovered fault zone material.

The fault's rate of slip deficit buildup can also be measured through the use of geodetic observations that track how the earth's surface moves over time, for example by using highly precise GPS sensors installed on land, together with a model that relates how slip on the fault affects the movement of these stations. However, it is hard for scientists to use this technique to "see" what is going on in the shallowest part of the fault, because it is far from land, below kilometers of water, where traditional GPS instruments cannot operate.

Now, scientists at The University of New Mexico and the Nanyang Technological University (NTU) in Singapore have developed a new geodetic method for inferring this value that accounts for the interaction between different parts of the fault, resulting in a much more physically accurate result. Lindsey's team noted that previous models have failed to take into account the fact that if the deep part of the fault is stuck between earthquakes, the shallow part can't move eitherit is in what they term a 'stress shadow' and there is no buildup of energy available to cause it to slip. By taking this effect into account, the team developed a technique that uses the same land-based data but results in a vast improvement in their ability to "see" the fault slip in the areas that are farthest from shore, allowing researchers to reassess the hazard presented by the offshore parts of subduction zones most prone to tsunami generation.

"We applied this technique to the Cascadia and Japan subduction zones and found that wherever deeper locked patches are present, the shallow fault must also have a high slip deficitregardless of its own frictional properties," said Eric Lindsey, an assistant professor in the UNM Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences who conducted the research while at the Earth Observatory of Singapore at NTU. "If these areas can slip seismically, global tsunami hazard could be higher than currently recognized. Our method identifies critical locations where seafloor observations could yield information about frictional properties of these faults in order to better understand their slip behavior."

This study is important because it calls for a reassessment of previous models of tsunami hazard on megathrusts worldwide. Because this can be done with existing data, the reassessment can be done comparatively quickly as well. Hopefully, this will lead to better preparedness among coastal communities for future events.

Explore further Weird earthquake reveals hidden mechanism

More information: Slip rate deficit and earthquake potential on shallow megathrusts, Nature Geoscience (2021). Journal information: Nature Geoscience Slip rate deficit and earthquake potential on shallow megathrusts,(2021). DOI: 10.1038/s41561-021-00736-x
Rice University bioscientist Kory Evans with a 3D printed skull of a jack, a close symmetrical relative of flatfish. Evans and colleagues found flatfish rapidly evolved their asymmetric shape thanks to highly integrated networks of genes that controlled the shapes of their skulls. Credit: Jeff Fitlow/Rice University

Ever look at a flatfish like a flounder or sole, with two eyes on one side of its head, and think, "How did that happen?"

You're in luck. Rice University biologist Kory Evans has the answer.

"Flatfishes are some of the weirdest vertebrates on the planet, and they got weird very, very fast by changing multiple traits at once over a short period of time," said Evans, an assistant professor of biosciences at Rice who specializes in studying the evolution of fish over long time scales.

Of all mammals, reptiles, birds, amphibians and fish, flatfish are easily the most asymmetric. Evans, the corresponding author of a study on flatfish evolution in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, said it helps to keep that in perspective.

"Imagine any other animal," he said. "Like, say you're out walking and you see a squirrel, and one eye is here and the other is there," he said, pointing to two places on the same side of his face. "That squirrel is having a bad time. And there are 800 species of these fish that just do that.

"Perspective helps for understanding how weird these animals actually are."

In evolutionary terms, flatfish asymmetry isn't just a novelty, it's an innovation, and a trait that sets flatfish far apart from even their closest relatives.

Kory Evans preparing to examine a fish with a microscope in his Rice University laboratory. Credit: Jeff Fitlow/Rice University

Evans said flatfish evolution is particularly interesting because they began as typical, symmetrical fish. They started evolving their current shape, or morphology, about 65 million years ago, and within 3 million years, they'd largely finished.

"We got all that novel colonization of morphospace in 3 million years' time," Evans said. "And look how much time has passed since then. So there's a really brief and short period of time when they evolved all these new forms and all these crazy species."

In their study, Evans and co-authors Olivier Larouche of Rice and Sara-Jane Watson of the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology found that tight integration of genetic traits in flatfish led to a sort of evolutionary cascade.

"Integration is where there's a high degree of correlation between traits, such that if you change one trait, another trait will be changed as well," Evans said. "At macroevolutionary timescales, this gets really interesting, because traits then begin to co-evolve with one another. So if you change one trait, you might end up changing several others."

He said traits can become more integrated if their morphological development is controlled or influenced by shared gene interaction networks.

"If the signaling networks expand to encompass more and more traits, then you can theoretically smear changes all across an entire organism using the same signaling network, and you can change really fast," he said. "It's like pressing one button and flipping the whole animal all at once."

Evans, Larouche and Watson used several methods to piece together the story of flatfish evolution. One was a phylogenetic comparative method that tracks the evolutionary history of traits between and among species. Phylogenetic trees have branches that show where species diverge. "Typically, the tree is built using genetics," Evans said. "So, maybe we'll have a bunch of genomes for all those species. And we can use that to figure out who's more closely related to who. Then, once the tree is built, I can see how traits have changed over time using the branching pattern of the tree as a guide."

Rice University bioscientists (from left) Kory Evans, Sean Trainor and Jojo West in Evans' laboratory at Rice. Credit: Jeff Fitlow/Rice University

The researchers also used a micro-CT scanner in the Evans lab to make 3-D scans of the skulls of several flatfish species. The scans were used to make 3-D morphometric models that could be compared for differences in shape. But many flatfish species are so dissimilar that it wasn't possible to "tease them apart with just shape or just phylogeny alone," Evans said.

So the researchers created complex mathematical models to track the degree of integration between different regions of the skull across the 65-million-year history of flatfishes and their relatives.

"We found that flatfishes were way more integrated than non-flat fishes, and what this means is that the evolution of asymmetry for flatfishes ended up being an integrated process, basically, involving changes all across the skull," he said. "As the eye migrated, a bunch of other things changed as well. And it became additive. So as the flatfish skull got more and more integrated, more things began to change, per unit time, than a generation before."

As to why flatfish evolved to be asymmetrical, Evans said it wasn't the only path to becoming flat.

"Other fishes that are flat did not do this, like stingrays," he said. "They just went flat like a pancake. But their eyes aren't both on the same side. The remora (aka suckerfish) are also a flat-looking fish, and they didn't do that."

Given evolution is a competition for "survival of the fittest," the evolutionary success of flatfish begs the question: Is asymmetry somehow advantageous?

"I'm not gonna lie," Evans said. "I don't really know if there's an advantage. I think they did it because they could."

Explore further Researchers solve puzzle of origin and formation of specialized body plan in flatfishes

More information: Kory M. Evans et al, Integration drives rapid phenotypic evolution in flatfishes, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (2021). Journal information: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences Kory M. Evans et al, Integration drives rapid phenotypic evolution in flatfishes,(2021). DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2101330118
A mini T-shirt demonstrates the photosynthetic living materials created in the lab of University Rochester biologist Anne S. Meyer and Delft University of Technology bionanoscientist Marie-Eve Aubin-Tam using 3D printers and a new bioink technique. Credit: University of Rochester photo

Living materials, which are made by housing biological cells within a non-living matrix, have gained popularity in recent years as scientists recognize that often the most robust materials are those that mimic nature.

For the first time, an international team of researchers from the University of Rochester and Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands used 3D printers and a novel bioprinting technique to print algae into living, photosynthetic materials that are tough and resilient. The material has a variety of applications in the energy, medical, and fashion sectors. The research is published in the journal Advanced Functional Materials.

"Three-dimensional printing is a powerful technology for fabrication of living functional materials that have a huge potential in a wide range of environmental and human-based applications." says Srikkanth Balasubramanian, a postdoctoral research associate at Delft and the first author of the paper. "We provide the first example of an engineered photosynthetic material that is physically robust enough to be deployed in real-life applications."

How to build new materials: Living and nonliving components

To create the photosynthetic materials, the researchers began with a non-living bacterial cellulosean organic compound that is produced and excreted by bacteria. Bacterial cellulose has many unique mechanical properties, including its flexibility, toughness, strength, and ability to retain its shape, even when twisted, crushed, or otherwise physically distorted.

The bacterial cellulose is like the paper in a printer, while living microalgae acts as the ink. The researchers used a 3D printer to deposit living algae onto the bacterial cellulose.

The combination of living (microalgae) and nonliving (bacterial cellulose) components resulted in a unique material that has the photosynthetic quality of the algae and the robustness of the bacterial cellulose; the material is tough and resilient while also eco-friendly, biodegradable, and simple and scalable to produce. The plant-like nature of the material means it can use photosynthesis to "feed" itself over periods of many weeks, and it is also able to be regenerateda small sample of the material can be grown on-site to make more materials.

Artificial leaves, photosynthetic skins, and bio-garments

The unique characteristics of the material make it an ideal candidate for a variety of applications, including new products such as artificial leaves, photosynthetic skins, or photosynthetic bio-garments.

Artificial leaves are materials that mimic actual leaves in that they use sunlight to convert water and carbon dioxidea major driver of climate changeinto oxygen and energy, much like leaves during photosynthesis. The leaves store energy in chemical form as sugars, which can then be converted into fuels. Artificial leaves therefore offer a way to produce sustainable energy in places where plants don't grow well, including outer space colonies. The artificial leaves produced by the researchers at Delft and Rochester are additionally made from eco-friendly materials, in contrast to most artificial leaf technologies currently in production, which are produced using toxic chemical methods.

"For artificial leaves, our materials are like taking the 'best parts' of plantsthe leaveswhich can create sustainable energy, without needing to use resources to produce parts of plantsthe stems and the rootsthat need resources but don't produce energy," says Anne S. Meyer, an associate professor of biology at Rochester. "We are making a material that is only focused on the sustainable production of energy."

Another application of the material would be photosynthetic skins, which could be used for skin grafts, Meyer says. "The oxygen generated would help to kick-start healing of the damaged area, or it might be able to carry out light-activated wound healing."

Besides offering sustainable energy and medical treatments, the materials could also change the fashion sector. Bio-garments made from algae would address some of the negative environmental effects of the current textile industry in that they would be high-quality fabrics that would be sustainability produced and completely biodegradable. They would also work to purify the air by removing carbon dioxide through photosynthesis and would not need to be washed as often as conventional garments, reducing water usage.

"Our living materials are promising because they can survive for several days with no water or nutrients access, and the material itself can be used as a seed to grow new living materials," says Marie-Eve Aubin-Tam, an associate professor of bionanoscience at Delft. "This opens the door to applications in remote areas, even in space, where the material can be seeded on site."

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More information: Srikkanth Balasubramanian et al, Bioprinting of Regenerative Photosynthetic Living Materials, Advanced Functional Materials (2021). Journal information: Advanced Functional Materials Srikkanth Balasubramanian et al, Bioprinting of Regenerative Photosynthetic Living Materials,(2021). DOI: 10.1002/adfm.202011162
A fisherman checks his gear in a Cambodian rice field fishery. Credit: Kathryn Fiorella

A new Cornell University-led study examines how temperature affects fishing behavior and catches among inland fisher households in Cambodia, with important implications for understanding climate change.

The research, which used household surveys, temperature data and statistical models, revealed that when temperatures rise, people fish less often. At the same time, the study's authors indirectly found that stocks of fish and other aquatic foods also rise with temperatures, leading to slightly larger catches each time peopled fished. Without careful analysis, it would appear that overall fish catches appear unchanged annually, when in fact, more nuanced dynamics are at play.

The study highlights why it's necessary when studying changing environmental conditions to include human behavior along with ecosystem responses; both are key variables when considering how climate change affects rural livelihoods, food production and food access.

The paper, "Fishers' Response to Temperature Change Reveals the Importance of Integrating Human Behavior in Climate Change Analysis," published April 30 in the journal Science Advances.

"This study underscores the importance of pulling human behavior into climate change modeling," said Kathryn Fiorella, an assistant professor in the Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences and Master of Public Health Program in the College of Veterinary Medicine. "To accurately predict the impacts of climate change, we need to know about the effects on ecological systems, and also the effects on people who use them."

In the study, Fiorella and colleagues used data provided by partner organization WorldFish, which collected survey data every two months over three years for households in Cambodia, which has the world's highest per-capita consumption of inland fish. WorldFish collected information on how often people fished, how much time they spent when they fished, and what method they used.

The researchers used remotely sensed temperature data over the same three-year period, which revealed a range of 24 to 31 degrees Celsius (75 to 88 degrees Fahrenheit). The researchers also controlled for rainfall and flooding.

"The temperatures in the range of the study compare to regional climate projections in the area, which suggest around a 1.5 to 2.5 degrees Celsius [2.7 to 4.5 F] temperature rise above the average of 28 degrees Celsius [82.4 F]," Fiorella said. "What we observed is in range for what we might expect under climate change scenarios."

The researchers found time spent fishing per outing and the gear choices were not affected by temperature, but fewer people fished as temperatures rose.

They also analyzed fish catch. It turns out that, with effort holding constant, fish catch per outing went up as temperatures rose, which meant the ecosystem became a little more productive when it was warmer. The same pattern was true for other aquatic animals, like frogs or snakes, and aquatic plants. However, without factoring in effects of temperature on human behavior, it might have looked like temperature had no effect.

The researchers suspect that fishing frequency declined as temperatures rose due to competing interests. "These households have a suite of different activities they are engaged in at the same time," Fiorella said, noting many of them are rice farmers or run small businesses. At the same time, heat may also be a factor, she added.

Fiorella added that large swaths of the population migrate to cities or nearby countries for work, and these dynamics could be pulling them away from fishing.

"Ultimately," she said, "understanding both ecosystem responses and people's responses to temperature is going to be fundamental to understanding how climate change affects people who are directly reliant on the natural resources for their food and income."

Explore further Thawing permafrost cools Arctic currents: This might affect fish stocks

More information: Kathryn J. Fiorella et al, Fishers' response to temperature change reveals the importance of integrating human behavior in climate change analysis, Science Advances (2021). Journal information: Science Advances Kathryn J. Fiorella et al, Fishers' response to temperature change reveals the importance of integrating human behavior in climate change analysis,(2021). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abc7425
Credit: University of Melbourne

The extent of Indigenous businesses' contribution to the Australian economy has been revealedat least $4.88 billionin a first-of-its-kind research snapshot of the sector's diversity and impact.

The inaugural Indigenous Business Snapshot Study establishes the economic power of Indigenous businesses, using data pooled from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) and numerous custodians of Indigenous business data to form the Indigenous Business Longitudinal Analysis Data Environment (I-BLADE).

Its content can measure the sector's scope and offers policy makers comprehensive data to identify and focus upon areas that need most assistance, closing a blind spot that has hindered the potential growth of Indigenous businesses.

Head of the University of Melbourne Indigenous Business Research Group and research lead, Associate Professor Michelle Evans, said for the first time, comprehensive evidence had quantified the Indigenous business sector's economic strength, providing insights into its social and cultural impact in Australia.

"This research is truly unprecedented. It shows us that Indigenous businesses bring not just significant economic impact, but far more. They contribute employment and deliver services to Indigenous communities including health and education services in a culturally sensitive manner that is essential for ensuring trust and accessibility of service for Indigenous people that rely on them," Associate Professor Evans said.

"They also often punch above their weight when compared to non-Indigenous businesses in terms of size, employee numbers and higher wages. On top of that, the sector is growing more quickly."

The study examined data from financial year 2006 to financial year 2018. Over that time there was a 74 percent increase in the number of Indigenous businesses, 115 percent growth in gross income, and more than 22,000 jobs createda 100 percent increase. In 2018, gross income for the sector was $4.88 billion, more than Australia's beer industry ($4.3 billion).

Associate Professor Evans said while the figures in this research proved the significance of Indigenous business to Australia, over coming years it would paint an annual picture of the sector's scope and strength, with contributions from those in the community itself playing a key role in its future success.

"This snapshot will capture an image of the Indigenous business sector each yearfrom community, government, corporate, banking, education, to investment stakeholdersinforming the sector ecosystem. Critically, it will show the impact of focused sector support, such as the introduction of Indigenous preferential procurement programs," she said.

Explore further Educators' cultural experiences enhance Indigenous student engagement

More information: Indigenous Business Snapshot Study
Researcher Ivannia Calvo, silhouetted against a solar satellite image, works inside the Solar Astronomical Observatory in San Jose, Costa Rica, Friday, April 30, 2021. Costa Rica approved a law creating a space agency on Feb. 18. (AP Photo/Carlos Gonzalez)

Mars missions, astronauts coming and going at the International Space Station, China's increasingly ambitious space program. Space-related news is flowing, and not just from the world's richest, biggest nations. Take Latin America.

On Feb. 17, the congress in Nicaragua, one of the region's poorest, most conflict-prone nations, approved a law creating a space agency. Costa Rica, known for relative growth and stability, did the same on Feb. 18, the day that the NASA rover Perseverance landed on Mars to look for signs of ancient life.

The potential benefits of space are tantalizing for many countries with scarce resources. Satellite technology, international partnerships, national pride and local development all beckon. Inevitably, critics suspect a boondoggle, a vanity project, a diversion from pressing problems on the ground.

"The truth is, the type of eyebrow raised regarding the announcement of a Nicaragua space program is similar to whenever an African country announces a space program. People always question why it makes sense, especially since these countries are battling several socioeconomic problems," Temidayo Oniosun, managing director of Space in Africa, wrote in an email to The Associated Press.

"First of all, most developing countries are primarily interested'' in space technologies to address developmental challenges, Oniosun said. Some want a communications satellite ''because it brings an excellent investment return and helps close the digital divide challenges. It is why you rarely see a developing country say they are doing space explorations (Moon, Mars, etc.) and stuff, he said.

The growth of the commercial space industry and prospects for global internet access from satellite constellations could increasingly help countries that lack coverage. Satellite data can also guide crop-growing, help industry and natural disaster management and track weather and other conditions linked to disease.

Nicaragua, whose government cracked down hard on the political opposition, isn't a newcomer to space ambitions. An old deal with China years ago for the deployment of a communications satellite is delayed. In 2017, Russia opened a facility in Nicaragua as part of a satellite navigation system; Nicaragua denied it was for spying on the region or the United States.

Nicaragua seems aware of skepticism about its new, military-run ''National Secretariat for the Affairs of Outer Space, the Moon and Other Celestial Bodies.''

"It's not how they have wanted to manipulate it,'' pro-government legislator Jenny Martinez said in congress, without elaborating on critics' comments. She said more than 50 countries have agencies dedicated to space matters. Nicaragua has been a member since 1994 of the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space, which oversees treaties governing space law.

"I don't think Nicaragua needs to send something into space to be a part of the forum, said Carlos Arturo Velez, an Ecuadorian lawyer studying at the International Institute of Air and Space Law at Leiden University in the Netherlands.

"Doing something wrong in outer space could affect any country in the world, for example if satellite debris crashes to Earth and causes damage and casualties, Velez said.

Students walks past the Solar Astronomical Observatory in San Jose, Costa Rica, Friday, April 30, 2021. Costa Rica approved a law creating a space agency on Feb. 18. (AP Photo/Carlos Gonzalez)

Ecuador launched a satellite, Pegaso, in 2013 with fanfare and Chinese help, but it was damaged a month later. Some accounts said the cause was debris from an old Russian rocket.

Supporters of Costa Rica's space ambitions say its new agency can contribute to technologies used on Earth, as well as give Costa Rica a say in international space policy and agreements.

"A lot of people criticized the creation of NASA in 1958 when the United States was struggling with the worst economic recession of the postwar era, Franklin Chang Diaz, a Costa Rica-born U.S. citizen who became a NASA astronaut, said in a statement.

The incredible feat of putting a person on the moon, he said, ''sometimes eclipses the most significant'' thing about NASA's creation: The enormous technological and economic benefits that followed. Chang Diaz is the chairman and CEO of the Ad Astra Rocket Company, based in Texas.

Last week, California-based LeoLabs, Inc. announced that a new radar site was operational in Costa Rica to track objects in low Earth orbit and deliver data. The country's first satellite, Irazu, was launched with help from a SpaceX rocket in 2018 to monitor its tropical forests and climate change. It was partly funded with a Kickstarter campaign.

"It's not surprising" that Costa Rica passed a space agency law and hopefully Guatemala will do the same, said Katherinne Herrera, a biochemistry and microbiology student at the University of the Valley of Guatemala who heads a university club dedicated to space science and engineering.

A country needs ''public policies that support space initiatives'' and ''help achieve different objectives in the area of research,'' Herrera wrote in an email.

Guatemala's first satellite, Quetzal-1, was deployed by Japan last year and was operated by a team from the university where Herrera is studying. The project unfolded in a country whose problems have compelled many citizens to look for a better life elsewhere.

Bolivia's space agency got caught up in the country's recent political turmoil. The new government accused its interim predecessor of hobbling operations at the agency, which was set up in 2010 by then-President Evo Morales.

Brazil's science and technology minister, Marcos Pontes, is a former astronaut who trained with NASA, and Chile is home to giant telescopes. Now Mexico and Argentina are leading efforts to form a regional space agency. The African Union also plans a space agency, to be based in Egypt. The European Space Agency, which uses a rocket launch site in French Guiana on South America's northeast coast, was established in 1975.

Mexico's Congress on Monday hosted an international panel on the outlook for a ''new space race'' and what it can do for health, education and other fields. Sen. Beatriz Paredes Rangel put it in existential terms, saying it was time to stop dwelling on Earth-bound debates of the past.

"The future is in our hands and if we're not a part of it, we will disappear or waste the opportunity to play a relevant role in the construction of the future," she said.

Explore further Russian rocket launches Egyptian telecom satellite

 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
ESA's Hera Mission to the Didymos binary asteroid system will carry two CubeSat Opportunity Payloads (COPINS) - named Juventas and Milani - to support the science goals of the main spacecraft, as well demonstrate deep space inter-satellite link techniques. Credit: European Space Agency

In an alternate reality playing out at this year's international Planetary Defense Conference, a fictional asteroid crashes over Europe, 'destroying' a region about 100 km wide near the Czech Republic and German border. The scenario was imagined, but the people who took part are very real, and the lessons learnt will shape our ability to respond to dangerous asteroids for years to come.

Asteroid impact: the only natural disaster we might prevent

Natural hazards come in a range of forms and occur with varying frequency. Some are relatively frequent events with localized impacts such as flooding and wildfires. Others occur just once in a blue moon but can impact the entire planet, such as global pandemics and asteroid impacts.

The threat from asteroids however is unique: an asteroid impact is the most predictable natural disaster we face, and given enough warning we have the technology, in principle, to entirely prevent it.

In the last few decades, the field of Planetary Defense has made remarkable progresshumankind now has telescopes dotted across the planet seeking out hazardous space rocks, the largest of which have all been discovered, and this year we launch a mission that will for the first time put asteroid deflection to the test.

The good news is, when it comes to giant, dinosaur-extinction-sized asteroids, we are pretty sure we've found every one out there. Because of their sheer size, they are easy to detect. But the smaller they get, the more we still have to find, which is why the impact of this year's asteroid, 2021 PDC, provided such an important lesson: we can only prevent what we can predict.

This year's scenario: mission impossible

(Although this scenario is realistic in many ways, it is completely fictional and does NOT describe an actual asteroid impact.)

It all began on 19 April 2021, when a new asteroid was discovered by the Pan-STARRS near-Earth object survey project. It soon became clear that this asteroid was worryingly likely to strike Earth in just six months.

Asteroid impact 2028: Protecting our planet. Credit: European Space Agency

Further observations confirmed what the international community had feared, an impact was certain. However the size of the object remained unclear, ranging anywhere from 35 to 700 meters in diameter.

As would be the case if a real asteroid were on collision course, the International Asteroid Warning Network (IAWN)  a network of organizations that detect, track and characterize potentially hazardous asteroidspublicly disseminated weekly updates on the impact probability as the situation progressed.

At the same time, the Space Missions Planning Advisory Group (SMPAG) began to consider our options to prevent the impact. However, time is short and we are still uncertain on the size of the object. Most options to deflect an asteroidsuch as deflection via a high-energy impact, 'gravity tractor' or 'ion beam shepherd'  work by only slightly nudging the targeted space rock. However, if performed far enough in advance that small initial nudge builds up to become a large shift in position by the time the asteroid gets close to Earth.

By day three of the conference, the scenario jumps ahead two months to 30 June, less than four months until the imaginary asteroid would strike. At this point, SMPAG concludes that no space missions can be launched in time to deflect or disrupt 2021 PDC from its collision course.

Lessons learned: we can't prevent what we can't predict

A scenario like this, in which an asteroid impact is predicted with short warning of just a few months, poses challenges for in-space prevention.

Asteroids in our Solar System do not appear out of nowhere, they travel in orbits around the Sun for thousands, millions of years. Like annual meteor showers, we can calculate with great certainty when an asteroid will be back.

Had a more sensitive asteroid survey such as NEOSM or the Rubin Observatory (LSST) been in place in 2014, they would almost certainly have detected 2021 PDC on a previous journey round the Sun, and this seven-year warning would have opened up a host of different possible outcomes. In particular, space missions would have been feasible for a reconnaissance mission to find out more about the asteroid's size and composition, or a simple 'kinetic-impactor' deflection mission could have nudged it out the way.

The shaded regions in this image show where the (fictional) impact is most likely to occur. There is a 99% chance the impact will be located within the outer contour, 87% inside the middle contour, and 40% inside the central dark red region. For educational purposes only. Not real. More information via Planetary Defense Conference Exercise - 2021. Credit: European Space Agency

Investing on eyes on the sky

Telescopes and sky surveys such as the PanSTARRS or Catalina sky survey and many more are discovering new near-Earth objects (NEOs) every day. ESA is adding to this global network with its upcoming network of high-tech 'Flyeyes".

ESA's Test-Bed Telescope, the second of which was recently installed at La Silla, in South America, is a collaborative project with ESO that will efficiently perform follow-up observations of NEOs, and the first Flyeye telescope is currently under construction to be installed on a mountain top in Sicily, Italy, with an insect-inspired design that will allow it to cover large regions of the sky much quicker than traditional designs.

Investments such as these, as well as those under way across the globe, are fundamental to protecting us from dangerous asteroids. We have to find them before we can do anything about them.

Lessons from COVID-19

This year's conference, like the majority of events in the last months, took place entirely online. As many participants noted, preparing for one disaster while in the midst of another had a unique poignancy, a not-so-subtle reminder that unlikely but catastrophic events are very real, and must be prepared for.

Disaster management experts, local governments, mission planners and policy experts regularly look to past events to see what worked, and what went wrong. On the fourth day of the conference, lessons from past disasters such as hurricanes, floods and earthquakes were discussed, along with lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Of vital importance is the need to invest in research and technology, prepare governments and local authorities including with realistic exercise scenarios, understand how to protect diverse populations with varying needs including the most vulnerable in society, and provide clear and transparent information and advice to the public.

"A big lesson was that we need more long-term planning on how we can spot, track and ultimately mitigate potentially dangerous asteroids," says Detlef Koschny, Head of ESA's Planetary Defense Office.

"Simply thinking in annual or bi-annual planning cycles, which is how many budgets at public institutions are set, is not good enough to address a risk that has been hundreds of millions of years in the making."

Finally, one thing is clear: an asteroid impact, although unlikely, is probably going to happen sooner or laterso it is best to be prepared.

Explore further NASA to participate in tabletop exercise simulating asteroid impact
Grey whales usually live between Mexico and Alaska

A young grey whale has been sighted off the southern French coast in recent days, lost in the Mediterranean and trying unsuccessfully to make it back to its natural habitatthe northern Pacificthe national network for the rescue of sea mammals said.

The whale, some eight metres long (26 feet) and around 15 months old, had already been seen off Morocco in March, and then again in Italian waters, first near Naples, then Rome and then Genoa.

Pacific grey whales are native to the Pacific, with many of them spending winters off the Mexican state of Baja California and summers in Alaska.

"It's possible that the whale, born in California, got lost in the Beaufort Sea (in the Arctic) during its first feeding season," Adrien Gannier, a veterinary surgeon and a member of the rescue network, told AFP on Sunday.

"Instead of returning down to the Pacific, it probably went the Atlantic way and then got trapped in the Mediterranean," he said.

Grey whales usually stay near the coast and feed in shallow waters.

Gannier said he had observed the young cetacean near Bormes-Les-Mimosas, on the French Riviera, where the port authorities managed to entice it to take course back into the open sea.

The hope is now that the young whale makes its way past the Gulf of Lion and the Spanish coast, exits the Mediterranean near Gibraltar and travels north across the Atlantic.

"It seems in quite good health, but thin because its feeding pattern is not adapted to the Mediterranean," Gannier said.

Although grey whales can travel up to 12,000 miles (19,000 kilometres) during their annual migration, they rarely get this lost.

The last time a grey whale was sighted in the Mediterranean was in 2010, off the Israeli and Spanish coasts, Gannier said.

Explore further Migrating whale sets distance record

 2021 AFP
The aquarium system in which scientists submitted Northern red sea corals to various tempartures. Credit: Maoz Fine

Even under the most optimistic scenarios, most of the coral reef ecosystems on our planetwhether in Australia, the Maldives or the Caribbeanwill have disappeared or be in very bad shape by the end of this century. That's because global warming is pushing ocean temperatures above the limit that single-cell algae, which are corals' main allies, can withstand. These algae live inside coral tissue for protection and, in exchange, provide corals with essential nutrients produced through photosynthesis. Because the algae contain a variety of pigments and therefore give coral reefs their famous colors, if they are lost the corals turn white, which is known as coral bleaching. But in spite of the real threat caused by global warming, corals in the Red Sea look set to keep their vibrant color.

"We already knew that corals in the Gulf of Aqaba, at the northern tip of the Red Sea, were particularly resistant to higher temperatures. But we wanted to study the full molecular mechanism behind this resistance," says Romain Savary, a postdoc at EPFL's Laboratory for Biological Geochemistry (LGB) and lead author of the study, which appears today in PNAS. What the scientists found was telling: those corals, as well as the algae and bacteria they live in symbiosis with, can withstand average temperatures some 5C higher than what they typically experience. And despite the severity with which climate change is taking place, it's unlikely that Red Sea temperatures will rise more than 5C by the end of the century. "This gives us real hope that we can save at least one major coral reef ecosystem for future generations," says Anders Meibom, head of the LGB.

Taking it in stride

To conduct their study, the scientists subjected Gulf of Aqaba corals to a range of heat stresses including the higher temperatures likely to occur in the coming decades. The average maximum monthly temperature in these waters is currently around 27C, so the scientists exposed coral samples to temperatures of 29.5C, 32C and 34.5C, over both a short time period (three hours) and a longer one (one week). The scientists measured the corals' and symbiotic algae's gene expression both during and after the heat stress test, and determined the composition of the microbiome residing in the corals.

The aquarium system in which scientists submitted Northern red sea corals to various temperatures. Credit: Maoz Fine

"The main thing we found is that these corals currently live in temperatures well below the maximum they can withstand with their molecular machinery, which means they're naturally shielded against the temperature increases that will probably occur over the next 100 or even 200 years," says Savary. "Our measurements showed that at temperatures of up to 32C, the corals and their symbiotic organisms were able to molecularly recover and acclimate to both short-term and long-term heat stress without any major consequences." This offers genuine hope to scientistsalthough warmer waters are not the only threat facing this exceptional natural heritage.

This is the first time scientists have conducted a genetic analysis of coral samples on such a broad scale, and their findings reveal how these heat-resistant corals respond at the most fundamental levelgene expression. They can also be used as a basis for identifying 'super corals." According to Meibom, "Romain's research gives us insight into the specific genetic factors that allow corals to survive. His study also indicates that an entire symphony of genetic expression is at work to give corals this extraordinary power." This sets a standard for what "super coral" gene expression looks like during a heat stress and a recovery. But could Red Sea corals be used to one day repopulate the Great Barrier Reef? "Corals are highly dependent on their surroundings," says Meibom. "They can adapt to new environments only after a long, natural colonization process. What's more, the Great Barrier Reef is the size of Italyit would be impossible to repopulate it artificially."

Corals in the Gulf of Aqaba, at the northern tip of the Red Sea, are particularly resistant to higher temperatures. Credit: Romain Savary/EPFL

Sailing toward the future

The scientists' work was made possible thanks to two unique research instruments: the Red Sea Simulator (RSS), developed by the Interuniversity Institute for Marine Sciences in Eilat, Israel; and the Coral Bleaching Automated Stress System (CBASS), developed by a team of researchers in the US. Their findings have laid the groundwork for a much more ambitious project that will be led by the Transnational Red Sea Center (TRSC), which was set up at EPFL in 2019. This new project will kick off this summer and take place over four years. "We'll sail the entire Red Seasome 2,000 km longon the research vessel Fleur de Passion, owned by our partner the Fondation Pacifique," says Meibom. "The goal will be to map the heat tolerance levels and the diversity of all the different types of corals found in these waters. Water temperatures rise as you head further south on the Red Sea, with a 5-6C differential between the northern and southern tips. That's what makes it a perfect real-world laboratory for studying these ecosystems. It's as if you're sailing towards the future as you head south."

And what does that glimpse into the future tell us? Some corals in the southern Red Sea are already starting to bleach. Savary believes there's just one solution: "We have to protect these corals and shield them from local stressors, which are mainly sources of pollution and physical destruction. That way we can keep a stock of 'natural super corals' for potentially recolonizing areas that have been hit particularly hard by climate-change-induced heat waves."

Explore further Northern Red Sea corals live close to the threshold of resistance to cold temperatures

More information: Romain Savary el al., "Fast and pervasive transcriptomic resilience and acclimation of extremely heat-tolerant coral holobionts from the northern Red Sea," PNAS (2021). Journal information: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences Romain Savary el al., "Fast and pervasive transcriptomic resilience and acclimation of extremely heat-tolerant coral holobionts from the northern Red Sea,"(2021). www.pnas.org/cgi/doi/10.1073/pnas.2023298118
Evolution of earthquake-induced tsunami in a bay traversed by a strike-slip fault. Colors indicate sea-surface height relative to undisturbed water level; wave height may exceed 2 m in some places. Top: Instantaneous tsunami generation phase coincident with earthquake propagation; Middle: postseismic tsunami generation phase, in which gravity-driven tsunami waves dominate; Bottom: backward propagation of large wave fronts reflected from bay tip. Credit: Ares J. Rosakis

A new study found overlooked tsunami hazards related to undersea, near-shore strike-slip faults, especially for coastal cities adjacent to faults that traverse inland bays. Several areas around the world may fall into this category, including the San Francisco Bay area, Izmit Bay in Turkey and the Gulf of Al-Aqaba in Egypt.

The study led by University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign civil and environmental engineering professor Ahmed Elbanna and professor Ares Rosakis of the California Institute of Technology used the Blue Waters supercomputer at the National Center for Supercomputing Applications to model tsunami hazards related to strike-slip faults around the globe. The results are published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

"Whenever we saw large tsunamis triggered by earthquakes along strike-slip faults, people assumed that perhaps the earthquake had caused an undersea landslide, displacing water that way," Rosakis said.

The researchers said that a strike-slip fault exists when two blocks of rock on the fault line slide horizontally past one another. The San Andreas Fault is an example of a strike-slip fault.

In September 2018, a moderate 7.5 magnitude earthquake and unexpectedly powerful tsunami swept through Palu, a city situated on the inland side of Palu Bay on the Indonesian island of Sulawesi. The quake occurred along a northwest-southeast trending strike-slip fault that runs through the city and plunges below the bay along Palu's northwest shore.

"It looked like a bulldozer had come in and leveled the town," said co-author Costas Synolakis, the president of Athens College and a professor of civil engineering at the University of Southern California, who surveyed the area following the devastating event. "This is why it is so important that we try to understand what really happened."

Studies exploring connections between strike-slip faulting and tsunamis exist. However, they focus on specific fault systems or geographic locations, obscuring the complex details of the fault geometry and bathymetry, the study reports.

"What is unique about our study is that instead of considering a location-specific event, we focused on the fundamentals of a strike-slip fault system interacting within the boundaries of a narrow bay," Elbanna said. "We opted to simulate a very basic planar fault passing through a very simplified smooth-bottomed bay, similar to a bathtub. Having this simplified baseline model allows us to generalize to any place on the planet that may be at risk."

Intersonic earthquakes are fault ruptures that happen so quickly that their movement outpaces the seismic shear waves they generatelike a sonic boom, but with the shock wave moving through the earth's crust. The simulations found that intersonic earthquakes can provide enough energy and large enough horizontal displacements to trigger large tsunami waves.

When such earthquakes occur within a narrow bay, the researchers reported three distinct phases that can lead to a tsunami: the initial fault movement and shockwave causing almost instantaneous shaking of the coastal land; the displacement of water while the earthquake is occurring; and gravity-driven motion of the tsunami wave after the ground motion has subsided that carries the wave to shore.

"Each of these phases will have a different effect depending on the unique geography of the surrounding land and bathymetry of the bay," Elbanna said. "And, unlike the earthquakes and subsequent water displacement that occur many miles offshore, an earthquake and tsunami that occurs within the narrow confines of a bay will allow for very little warning time for the coast."

Elbanna compares the effect of horizontal strike-slip fault displacements to holding a water cup in your hand and shaking it horizontally.

"The sloshing motion is a result of the horizontal shaking. When an earthquake occurs along a strike-slip fault in a narrow bay, the horizontal ground motion pushes and pulls the boundaries of the bay leading to displacement of water in the vertical direction and initiation of the tsunami," he said.

"The physics-based model used in this study provides critical insight about the hazard associated with strike-slip faulting, particularly, the need to account for such risk to mitigate future damage to other bays traversed by strike-slip faults," said Illinois graduate student Mohamed Abdelmeguid, who conducted the simulations along with former graduate student Xiao Ma, currently a senior research scientist at Exxon Mobil.

The at-risk regions identified by the teamNorthern California, Turkey and Egypthave experienced intersonic earthquakes in the past, and the researchers recommend revisiting the tsunami hazard rating of underwater strike-slip faults, particularly those traversing narrow bays.

"It may not look like the tsunami scene from Dwayne Johnson's "San Andreas' movie, but the tsunami risk for Northern California and several places worldwide needs to be seriously revisited," Elbanna said.

Explore further Weird earthquake reveals hidden mechanism
Police spoke with a witness who lives just north of where the group was gathered, Scaduto said. The man was in his back alley watering his flowers when Nielsen stopped his truck and told the man how he was annoyed by yuppies on the boulevard out with their dogs, she said. Nielsen then told the witness, Watch what Im going to do before speeding down the alley and driving over the curb into the group of people, Scaduto said.
Fragment of the anterior end of an individual living worm (Ramisyllis multicaudata) dissected out of its host sponge. Bifurcation of the gut can be seen where the worm branches. The yellow structure is a differentiation of the digestive tube typical of the Family Syllidae. Credit: Ponz-Segrelles & Glasby

The marine worm Ramisyllis multicaudata, which lives within the internal canals of a sponge, is one of only two such species possessing a branching body, with one head and multiple posterior ends. An international research team led by the Universities of Gottingen and Madrid is the first to describe the internal anatomy of this intriguing animal. The researchers discovered that the complex body of this worm spreads extensively in the canals of their host sponges. In addition, they describe the anatomical details and nervous system of its unusual reproductive units, the stolons, which form their own brain when detached for fertilization, allowing them to navigate their environment. The results were published in the Journal of Morphology.

The research team found the host sponges and their guest worms in a remote area in Darwin, Australia, where these animals live. They collected samples, some of which are now located in the collections of the Biodiversity Museum at the University of Gottingen. For their analysis, they combined techniques such as histology, electronic optical microscopy, immunohistochemistry, confocal laser microscopy, and X-ray computed microtomography. This made it possible to obtain three-dimensional images both of the worms' different internal organs and of the interior of the sponges that they inhabit. The scientists show that when the body of these animals divides, so do all their internal organs, something that has never been observed before.

Furthermore, the three-dimensional models developed during this research have made it possible to find a new anatomical structure exclusive to these animals, which is formed by muscular bridges that cross between the different organs whenever their body has to form a new branch. These muscular bridges are essential because they confirm that the bifurcation process does not occur in the early stages of life, but once the worms are adults and then throughout their lives. In addition, researchers propose that this unique "fingerprint" of muscle bridges makes it theoretically possible to distinguish the original branch from the new one in each bifurcation of the complex body network.

Branching worm with dividing internal organs growing in sea sponge. Credit: Ponz Segrelles, Aguado and Glasby

In addition, this new study investigates the anatomy of the reproductive units (stolons) that develop in the posterior ends of the body when these animals are about to reproduce, and that are characteristic of the family to which they belong (Syllidae). The results show that these stolons form a new brain and have their own eyes. This allows them to navigate their environment when they are detached from the body for fertilization. This brain is connected to the rest of the nervous system by a ring of nerves that surrounds the intestine.

The host sponge (Petrosia) where several posterior ends of one specimen of the worm Ramisyllis multicaudata can be seen as white lines crawling on the sponge's surface. Credit: Glasby

Small fraction of a single living specimen dissected out of its host sponge as seen through the stereomicroscope. Some dislodged fragments of sponge tissue can also be seen. Credit: Ponz-Segrelles, Aguado & Glasby

"Our research solves some of the puzzles that these curious animals have posed ever since the first branched annelid was discovered at the end of the 19th century," explains senior author Dr. Maite Aguado, University of Gottingen. "However, there is still a long way to go to fully understand how these fascinating animals live in the wild. For example, this study has concluded that the intestine of these animals could be functional, yet no trace of food has ever been seen inside them and so it is still a mystery how they can feed their huge branched bodies. Other questions raised in this study are how blood circulation and nerve impulses are affected by the branches of the body." This research lays the foundations for understanding how these creatures live and how their incredible branched body came to evolve.

Explore further These sea slugs sever their own heads and regenerate brand-new bodies

More information: Guillermo PonzSegrelles et al, Integrative anatomical study of the branched annelid Ramisyllis multicaudata (Annelida, Syllidae), Journal of Morphology (2021). Guillermo PonzSegrelles et al, Integrative anatomical study of the branched annelid Ramisyllis multicaudata (Annelida, Syllidae),(2021). DOI: 10.1002/jmor.21356
FORT EDWARD  A Vermont man was sentenced to 6 months in Washington County Jail on Friday for spitting blood at five New York state troopers last August.

Jordan L. Champion, 27, of Richmond, Vermont, was arrested following a traffic stop during the early morning hours of Aug. 6. Champion was a passenger in a vehicle that was stopped for a series of traffic infractions. The trooper observed signs of drug use and asked the driver and Champion to get out of the vehicle.

At that point, police said Champion became aggressive and cursed at officers. He eventually exited the car and then charged one of the troopers, striking the trooper with his body, according to a news release issued at the time.

He then struck the trooper in the head multiple times while resisting being taken into custody. Champion was eventually secured in handcuffs, but continued to be combative, police said.

At the police station in Queensbury, Champion asked to smoke a cigarette and was told he would have to wait until he was processed.

He then became irate and allegedly damaged the wall and bench where he was secured. He flipped the bench, injuring himself in the process, and then proceeded to spit blood at the five troopers who were present.
If you think its been hard dealing with COVID-19 living in New York, consider the travails of our friends from across the border.

Flying into Canada results in a federal requirement for a three-day stay in a quarantine hotel that can cost up to $2,000 Canadian per person followed by an additional quarantine at home.

Lots of Canadians have been flying to United States airports and then walking across the border to avoid the quarantine requirement, according to CBC News which estimated more than 20,000 such crossings since February.

One such couple, Rick and Berni Vernon of Orillia, Ontario, were crossing the Rainbow Bridge on foot Wednesday morning. They traveled from Huatulco, Mexico.

They decided to try the U.S. route after their flight home was canceled three times.

I think the Canadian government is doing it to punish us, Rick said. He just retired at the age of 59 from his overhead door company and spent 11 weeks in Mexico with Berni as a post-retirement celebration.They left Mexico City at 8 a.m. Tuesday, flying to Atlanta and then Buffalo, reaching the border at about 10:30 a.m. Wednesday.
Trump has made it clear he will not stand down, hell endorse candidates, raise money and campaign for or against the partys selections.

His involvement, in Cheneys view, is a disaster waiting to happen and could destroy the partys chances of gaining the handful of seats it needs to win control.

Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, on the other hand, believes appeasing Trump and his base of support is crucial, and the political baggage the former president brings will not turn voters against Republicans.

The relationship between Cheney and McCarthy grows frostier by the day and the prospect of a meaningful thaw seems remote. Their differences over dealing with Trump are not likely to be resolved. The best that can be hoped for is a truce and a pledge to refrain from attacking each other.

Awarding a campaign role and platform to Trump is fraught with risk. Hell re-litigate the 2020 election, insist that millions of votes were cast fraudulently or changed by mysterious forces to deny him a second term.

He has refused to move on, despite the dismissal of more than 60 legal challenges to the election outcome. His repeated complaints have morphed into irritating whining, grating on the ears of the American people.
MAPLEWOOD, N.J. (AP)  Olympia Dukakis, the veteran stage and screen actress whose flair for maternal roles helped her win an Oscar as Chers mother in the romantic comedy Moonstruck, has died. She was 89.

Allison Levy her agent at Innovative Artists said Saturday that Dukakis died Saturday morning in her home in New York City. A cause of death was not immediately released.

Dukakis won her Oscar through a surprising chain of circumstances, beginning with author Nora Ephrons recommendation that she play Meryl Streeps mother in the film version of Ephrons book Heartburn. Dukakis got the role, but her scenes were cut from the film. To make it up to her, director Mike Nichols cast her in his hit play Social Security. Director Norman Jewison saw her in that role and cast her in Moonstruck.

Dukakis won the Oscar for best supporting actress and Cher took home the trophy for best actress.

She referred to her 1988 win as the year of the Dukakii because it was also the year Massachusetts Gov. Michael Dukakis, her cousin, was the Democratic Partys presidential nominee. At the ceremony, she held her Oscar high over her head and called out: OK, Michael, lets go!
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By the second week of January, Belgrave released a Facebook Live video requesting applicants. The video received more than 6,000 views. There were 36 applicants. Nine students, including 22-year-old Daniela Rodriguez-Luna and 34-year-old David Bailey, both of Atlantic City, were selected for the program.

Rodriguez-Luna, a former student of Belgraves, is now a student at Atlantic Cape Community College studying business management. She never planned to go to college, but some of her work experiences showed her that it could lead to a better life.

The problem, she found, was paying for it. Although Rodriguez-Luna was accepted into Temple University last year, she had to turn it down because it was too expensive.

Thats more of a motivation for me to pursue this career because I know that the income I would have would be enough to go to school and also provide for myself, she said.

For Bailey, who went to high school with Belgrave, life took him on a different route after he graduated.

I got into the streets and just started doing things I wasnt supposed to do, he said, adding that he ended up in prison but was released in 2015.
God a force in physics

I read with great interest the recent article, Results of two experiments defy physics rulebook, which challenge how physicists believe the universe works at a subatomic level. Particles like the muon may not be living in the seemingly empty spaces between them as thought. Theres something that seems to fill in all of the space and time. Physicist David Kaplan of Johns Hopkins University says that something could be explained by a new particle or force.

Once again, scientists have stumbled just like they did, in my opinion, with their long-accepted Big Bang Theory, which says the universe exploded and was formed from unimaginable dense, heated, marble-sized matter. But all explosions gradually dissipate once they reach their maximum outer limits, then collapse and fall back in on themselves. Thats not whats happening with our universe as recently discovered. Not only is our universe continuing to expand, its rate of expansion is actually accelerating not slowing down in direct contradiction of how all explosions work, refuting the Big Bang Theory.
Lightfoot said Jacksons lived experience, as well as her emphasis on equity, and inclusion ... have and will continue to drive excellence in our school system. Dr. Jacksons tenure illustrates that success isnt the result of one program, or one initiative, but instead a holistic approach to education and youth development that ensures every single one of our students receives the rigor, love and support that they need, regardless of their circumstances or ZIP code, and regardless of what other challenges may arise on one second.
The Two Rivers YMCA is helping Quad-Cities children improve their reading, but says it is something anyone can help do.

The YMCA is one of several groups and organizations working with the United Way to develop programming to address early literacy in the Quad-Cities.

Its incredibly important because we need to make sure that all children are prepared and ready to be as successful as possible," said Anika Martin, a spokeswoman for the YMCA.

The Two Rivers YMCA will be one of four groups participating in a "Shark Tank" style event this Saturday, broadcast live on KWQC. Part of the Together for Tomorrow program, organized by The United Way, the YMCA and three other participants will pitch their ideas in front of a panel of judges and compete for $100,000 of funding to make their ideas a reality.

The United Way, KWQC and the Quad-City Times are sponsoring the event, called "The Pitch," which will air on KWQC from 7-8 p.m. on Saturday, May 8.

Each of the pitches are centered on innovative ways to help improve literacy among Quad-Cities children, especially minority children, who aren't entering third grade with a normal reading level at the same rates that other children are.
If the air seems smoky, Iowans can check for large or small fires burning close to them by setting the location on the AirNow map and clicking on the nearest air quality monitor to find results for small particulate matter (also known as smoke) levels. These small particles can cause serious health problems, including asthma and heart attacks, strokes and early death.

But you can protect yourself by using the Air Quality Index to plan outdoor activities. If the index is green, air quality is good. A yellow color indicates acceptable air quality, but there may be a risk for people who are sensitive to air pollution. Risks may be higher for people with heart or lung disease, and for children, athletes and older adults.

Although it seldom happens in Iowa, if the index shows orange or red, its more likely for sensitive groups to be affected (orange) or for some of the public to have health effects (red). On those days, you can limit your exposure to particle pollution by spending less time outdoors, choosing light exercise over strenuous activities and limiting time near pollution sources like busy roads.

PLANTING IN FULL BLOOM: Favorable weather allowed Iowa farmers to plant almost half of this years corn crop last week, according to Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig.
I love the Quad Cities. Thats why I live here. But there is an opportunity right now that will absolutely put us on the map, and we cannot pass it up. Im talking about the Veterans Memorial Pier proposal.

Heres our chance to create the most unique attraction the Quad Cities has ever had, an attraction that will cause travelers on I-80, (with signage) and the new I-74 bridge, to not just keep on driving, but actually stop in the Quad Cities.

Have you ever seen a pier with a 60 waterfall that will be lit up at night?

Have you ever had lunch from a food truck, sitting at a picnic table, under a canopy in the middle of the Mississippi River? Have you ever had a chance to pay your respects to all the great veterans in the Quad Cities, in the middle of the Mississippi River?

The answer is you havent, because there is no other structure like the Veterans Memorial Pier on the Mississippi River. And heres the deal: We already have the money to do this. All we need is the will to do it.

This is a once in a lifetime opportunity. We will never get this chance again.
Wells to retire after leading Farm Bureau insurance company to success

Darlene P. Wells, a native of Kenbridge, Va., will conclude her 26-year career with Virginia Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Co. in June. She will step down as VFBMIC executive vice president and CEO of Countryway Insurance Co., a position she has held since 2013.

Under her direction, VFBMIC has been named among Ward's top 50 property and casualty companies multiple times. The list is compiled by Ward Group, a consulting firm specializing in the insurance industry and a leading provider of industry benchmarking. Each year Ward Group analyzes the financial performance of nearly 2,900 property and casualty insurance companies in the U.S. and identifies top performers.

Wells also led the company to an A rating from AM Best in 2020. That was the first time in 25 years that VFBMIC had been given the top financial-strength rating. The A rating applied to VFBMIC, the state's largest property and casualty company with premiums over $320 million. It also applied to the company's wholly owned subsidiary, Countryway Insurance Co. AM Best, the world's largest credit-rating agency, assesses the creditworthiness of more than 16,000 insurance companies worldwide.
On the 100th anniversary, the Armenian Apostolic Church canonized the victims of the genocide as saints.

Its really kind of changed the perspective of Armenians on those martyrs in the sense that it went from looking at those who died as victims ... [and] seeing them instead as victorious in a sense, said the Rev. Fr. Samuel Rith-Najarian, pastor of Richmonds St. James Armenian Apostolic Church. Changing our perspective has really changed the feeling of our community. There was an attempt to exterminate Armenians and here we are singing and praying 106 years later in an Armenian church in Richmond, Virginia.

Rith-Najarians great-grandmother was orphaned at age 13, her parents killed in front of her during the Ottoman campaign against the Armenians. She managed to flee to Egypt and eventually to the United States. Rith-Najarian was 12 when she died.

So I was old enough to hear her tell the stories. In the last few years of her life, she was starting to get Alzheimers, and it was almost as if she was having flashbacks to that time, he said. I remember my cousins and myself were visiting her and she would see us running around and playing and would start crying thinking that the [Ottomans] were coming to take us and she had to protect us.
Family asks for compassion release for Calvin Wayne Cunningham

A man wrongfully convicted of a 1979 rape, exonerated by DNA testing and who is now seriously ill from cancer was released  much to his surprise  from the custody of the Virginia Department of Corrections on Monday.

The Virginia Parole Board last week approved a conditional compassionate release for Calvin Wayne Cunningham, 68, according to his lawyer, who did not want him to die in prison. A spokeswoman for the Department of Corrections confirmed that he was to be released Monday.

Cunningham is suffering from stage 4 pancreatic cancer, and his lawyer, Jon Sheldon of Fairfax, said the release came as a complete surprise to Cunningham, who was moved from the security care unit at VCU Medical Center to another ward in the hospital Monday afternoon.

He didnt know anything, Sheldon said. He didnt know we had asked for his release. He didnt know his release had been granted and he was overwhelmed. I thought that Calvin knew that we were in the process of advocating for his release, and Calvin didnt know anything.

Sheldon said Cunningham did not have access to a telephone and no one had informed him of the effort to get him out of prison. He said it is still unclear when Cunningham will be able to leave the hospital to live with his daughter, Alicia Randall, of Portsmouth.
The speakers warned of a rise in hate crimes against Asian Americans in some big cities and memorialized the eight people  six of them women of Asian descent  killed at Atlanta-area spas in March by a gunman who allegedly claimed to have a sex addiction that authorities described as potentially driving him to lash out. The group also remembered the eight people  four of them from the Sikh community  killed last month by a gunman at an Indianapolis FedEx facility. Authorities havent detailed a suspected motive for that crime.
Locally, nationally and globally, we are nowhere near widespread vaccination. We have a lot more work to do in the fight against COVID-19.

As of Monday morning, per the Virginia Department of Health data dashboard, more than 3.8 million Virginians (45.1%) have received at least one dose and 2.7 million people were fully vaccinated (32%). Those numbers roughly parallel national figures. CDC data shows 147 million Americans (44.3%) have gotten their first dose and nearly 105 million people (31.6%) are fully vaccinated.

But roughly six months after the Food and Drug Administration gave the first emergency-use authorization for the Pfizer vaccine on Dec. 11, state health officials note demand has fallen off. In a Friday press call, Dr. Danny Avula, Virginias vaccination coordinator, said the commonwealth has changed its approach about how to reach populations that have yet to get their shots.
FDA should continue health care accessibility

Editor, Times-Dispatch:

A great advancement for womens health care concerning a prescription drug was noted in an April 13 Associated Press story in The Times-Dispatch.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reversed the prior administrations decision concerning mifepristone, commonly known as RU-486. Women seeking the prescription medication no longer would be required to visit a doctors office or a clinic to receive the medicine during the COVID-19 pandemic. This accessibility should continue postpandemic.

I am a married mother of three children, a full-time employee and a graduate student in public health. I have taken mifepristone once before after miscarrying. In fact, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that mifepristone significantly can improve the safe and effective medical management of an early pregnancy loss. Mifepristone already is known in the medical community to be a safe medication; the political maneuvers to ban this medication are not supported by scientific data. In fact, ACOG data shows that the medication has been used by more than 3 million women in the U.S. since its approval by the FDA in 2000.
Kin First bill boosts

foster care system

Editor, Times-Dispatch:

This years General Assembly session achieved much to benefit Virginias foster care system, specifically kinship foster care. The Kin First bill has been signed by Gov. Ralph Northam and will take effect July 1. Per this law, relatives and active kin (people who have a close relationship with a child) are to be involved in case planning and engaged as placement options for children in foster care. This is a step toward providing normalcy for such children in  and could mitigate some of the trauma involved in  entering foster care, as children can be placed with people who are familiar to them instead of with strangers.

The state-funded KinGAP program is another move in the right direction approved in this years legislative session that will serve relatives who are caring for a child through foster care, but it only is approved for the next year. This policy is sure to aid children in achieving permanency, the ultimate goal for any child in foster care, because it has less stringent requirements regarding which children and caregivers can access the financial assistance the program offers compared to the federally funded KinGAP.
Ed Daniels, who began growing ramps on his own West Virginia farm after noticing the depletion of the wild population foraged by his family for generations, provided Meyer with about 25 pounds of ramps to get started.

Daniels said hes grown concerned about ramps becoming endangered. He expects more rules and regulations may be imposed on foraging, something he looks forward to as it might help to protect the plant. He prefers to sell in small volumes to customers who want to cultivate the plant themselves.

Earlier this year, Daniels got a call from someone in Pennsylvania looking to buy 300 pounds of ramps. Though he offered $9 to $10 a pound, Daniels said he passed. His priority is the longevity of his plants, and selling such a large quantity could threaten that.

But Meyer was his ideal customer. One of the reasons she wanted to establish a ramp population at Savage Acres was to educate more people about the plant. Meyer was able to share the bounty of ramps she received from Daniels, leading about seven others to grow the plant on their properties.

Establishing cultivated populations, even expanding their range into our area, that really can reduce some of the pressure on the wild harvest, Savage said.
The 9-mile spur opened in 1909, according to Barnes. The problem for hospital visitors such as the Kinseys, with no connector from the Catawba Railroad to the hospital, the train bypassed the facility in its haste to arrive at the mine for another load.

So they followed the railroad and walked to the hospital.

Some hike that must have been over the mountain, not to mention the return trip. Access to the old Red Sulphur Springs site where the hospital would be developed had been a major hindrance for lawmakers in Richmond when it came time to choose the site.

Citing a 1929 book about the early years of the hospital by Dr. Earnest Stephenson, Grace Hemmingson reported in her study of the early hospital era that despite promises from the N&W, a branch road to the hospital was not completed until well after the sanatorium opened.

Renovations at the former Red Sulphur Springs as it was being transformed into a hospital took place with building materials being delivered via a 12-mile road over the mountain not in good condition for hauling patients and supplies.

Another reference to the road, presumably describing it in poor weather, was almost impassable.
Where: City Council chamber, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, 215 Church Ave. The meeting room will be closed to the public but the meeting will be broadcast on RVTV (Cox, Channel 3) and livestreamed on the citys Facebook page at www.facebook.com/RoanokeVa .

On the agenda: During the 9 a.m. session, the council will meet with the school board. Additionally, the council plans to participate in the latest in a series of budget and financial planning work sessions. During the 2 p.m. meeting segment, council plans to consider allocating about $2.8 million from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to housing, homeless services, infrastructure and family and youth programs in the Belmont-Fallon area.
If he is elected attorney general, he said, and any school board has not reopened its schools by the time he is sworn in, he will bring a lawsuit on behalf of those families, on behalf of those kids, saying youre in clear violation of the Virginia Constitution.

He said his second priority would be to investigate the parole board, which he said is literally breaking the law to let out violent criminals and murderers and rapists back on our streets.

Miyares said that when he was a prosecutor in Virginia Beach, he could tell crime victims that if they took the witness stand and endured a cross-examination, and the judge or jury convicted the accused, that the perpetrator was going to go away for a very long time and would not harm anyone else. He said prosecutors cannot say that to victims anymore.

And what theyve done to the victims of crime, to ignore their pleas, with this parole board and a host of other legislation that is now law ... I think its just unconscionable.

As for use of force by police, I think we all recognize ... we want to keep and encourage good cops and go after bad cops, Miyares said.
When the bus travels around, it will have laptops and a printer and other resources on board. A goal of the bus is to always hand out books to children and so, the school system will always be in need of book donations.

To get the bus up and running cost the district about $75,000 and involved adding a generator, an air conditioner, furniture, technology and resource materials.

The bus will travel all around Petersburg and participate in events with local churches, apartments, neighborhoods, nonprofit organizations and city government. The district wants to partner with financial companies to help run workshops for parents.

Bell hopes to park the bus outside of the local Wal-Mart and Target to meet families where they are and inform them of what the district is doing, instead of assuming parents know about everything happening in the schools.

But the district also wants to support parents. On-site, parents can create resumes with templates and learn the dos and donts of what to have on a resume.

Sometimes people just dont know how to ask [or] who to ask, and so we want to be able to figure out what it is you need and if we dont have the answer, we know community partners who can answer, Bell said.
 An op-ed syndicated by The Conversation news service about offices being too cold that appeared in Mondays Opinion section did not disclose a conflict of interest. The author, Kenneth McLeod, disclosed after publication that he has an equity stake in Sonostics, the maker of a device referenced in the article.
At one point last summer, the Virginia Department of Social Services reported that nearly 40% of the states childcare centers had closed. Although public preschool programs were among some of the first schools to reopen, in some cities that didnt happen until well into the school year.

The White House has pointed toward research that shows long-term benefits for children who go to pre-K as part of the reason for the sweeping proposal.

Children of that age who go to school are far more likely to graduate from high school and continue their education beyond that, rather than start off behind the eight ball, Biden said.

Their first stop of the day was at Yorktown Elementary School, where the school was observing the first day of teacher appreciation week. The Bidens attended a meeting in the magnet schools library to the upcoming plan that was closed to the press.

They then paid a visit to Cindy Bertaminis fifth-grade class, where students showed off their latest projects and talked about life back in the classroom. President Biden posed questions about future careers and school, and several students spoke up on virtual learning.
Let me say from the onset, before you call me a Grand Dragon from the Ku Klux Klan or the worlds biggest racist: Be it known that I do believe that Black lives matter. I once heard a man say that the trouble were having with people of color is a judgment from God for the suffering and pain we placed on them as slaves. Because, you see, God sees us all as equal. Many people dont.

There has always been racism and always will be because some whites will always hate Blacks, and some Blacks will always hate whites. I heard an old Black minister one time say, They can pass a law that keeps them from hanging me, but they cant pass a law to make them love me. How true! Heres why: Because you never graduate from the University of Hate; you just keep going back for more degrees.

Why do peaceful protests suddenly become a riot? Fires set, stores broken into, things stolen, cars burned, police attacked, and everything that goes with it. This doesnt help the problem; it only makes it worse. Many banners say Black Lives Matter, and I agree. But are they the only lives that matter?
In the lieutenant governors race, Hala Ayala, Mark Levine, Sean Perryman and Xavier Warren all live in Northern Virginia (although Warren grew up in Pittsylvania County). The only two exceptions are Andria McClellan of Norfolk and Sam Rasoul of Roanoke, about whom we shall have more to say later.

In the attorney generals race, incumbent Mark Herring is from Northern Virginia, challenger Jay Jones of Norfolk isnt. Most of the partys establishment has endorsed McAuliffe, Ayla and Herring, who would become the states first all-Northern Virginia ticket. (Northam backs Jones for attorney general).

Dont look to Republicans for regional diversity. Of their 17 candidates for statewide office, the only one from this part of the state is former Roanoke sheriff Octavia Johnson, whose candidacy for governor is not taken seriously.

Depending on whom Republicans nominate, its possible every single candidate for statewide office will be from Northern Virginia. Given the Republican strength in rural Virginia, its surprising theres not a candidate from that part of the state, but there isnt.
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Nigel Duara joined CalMatters in 2020 as a Los Angeles-based reporter covering poverty and inequality issues for our California Divide collaboration. Previously, he served as a national and climate correspondent on the HBO show VICE News Tonight. Before that, he was the border correspondent at the Los Angeles Times based in Phoenix, deployed to stories across the country. He is a longtime contributor to Portland Monthly magazine and graduated from the University of Missouri School of Journalism.
In the Elementary division, grades 3-5, the winner was Caroline Hanna. She is in the fifth grade at Hannah Pamplico Elementary School.

This is my fourth year entering ArtFields but my first time placing, Caroline said. I am so excited.

She said her inspiration for her winning artwork, Living in Color was watching old black and white movies.

In her artist statement she wrote: Have you ever thought about how the world would look if everything was black and white? While watching some old black and white movies, I decided to try to imagine that world. I used watercolor to first create a picture of people in shades of black, white and gray. The picture wasnt very fun to draw because it didnt have any color. The second watercolor was much more fun! I tried to make sure each person I created was unique, just like real people. A world full of colors and people is much more fun than one where everyone looks the same.

Caroline said she would like to redo her room with some of the $200 she received for the first place award.

It is a little early to tell, but Caroline said she thinks she would like to be a part time artist.

I have always loved to do art, she said.
Maj. Capers was born in Bishopville, South Carolina, Benjamin said. He currently resides in North Carolina. An intersection in Bishopville has been named for him.

Benjamin said Capers was one of very few African Americans to work in reconnaissance for the Special Forces of the Marine Corps. He said Capers served in Vietnam from 1966 to 1967.

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He led 64 ... recon missions in enemy territory behind enemy lines during his Vietnam tour, including an attempted POW [prisoner of war] rescue mission, Benjamin said. Thats 64 chances he had to get his head shot off.

Benjamin said Capers declined transfers to less dangerous positions at least twice during his tour. He added that Capers was the first African American to receive a battlefield commission in his corps.

He was entirely wounded on his last patrol, Benjamin said. His entire team was injured, and their war dog was killed. Maj. Capers was still able to lead his team out of the ambush. They were successfully extracted by helicopter, with Maj. Capers being the last man out. And they even got out the body of the war dog.

Benjamin said he believed Capers to be the absolute embodiment of semper fidelis, the Latin motto of the Marine Corps.
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June 28, 2006

"Hasta la vista, prison overcrowding!"

I cannot resist referencing one of my favorite action films to introduce the news that California Governor Schwarzenegger has called the state's legislature into special session to address prison overcrowding. Both TalkLeft and Crime and Consequences provide blog coverage of the news, and traditional media coverage can be found in the San Francisco Chronicle and the Los Angeles Times. Here are a few highlights from this official press release coming from the Governor's office:

Governor Schwarzenegger issued a proclamation today calling the Legislature into special session starting June 27 to address critical prison crowding and recidivism measures. The Governor has proposed several reforms to build new state prisons and local jail facilities, reduce crowding and move female inmates into community-based correctional facilities. Calling a special session enables the Governor to press for passage of these measures before the close of the Legislative session in August. "Our prisons are at the crisis point because the State of California has not planned adequately for its future and has not faced up to the need to build new prisons as well as hire and train more officers. I am calling on my partners in the Legislature to join me in taking action to face these challenges head on," said Gov. Schwarzenegger. "By building more prisons, managing the inmate population more effectively and implementing common-sense measures that target the most dangerous criminals, we can greatly improve our prison and rehabilitation system. "We can enact meaningful reform that ensures the safety of our correctional staff and makes sure more of our parolees stay out of prison after they're released. If we work together, I know we can do this and once again give California a model prison system." California's prison population is at an all time high of more than 171,000 inmates. The CDCR is double-bunking inmates and there are currently more than 16,000 inmates housed in prison gyms and day rooms throughout the various 33 correctional institutions.

Some related posts on California's prison woes:

June 28, 2006 at 08:44 AM | Permalink

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Yes, but will the issue of prison overcrowding eventually say "I'll be back?"

(Sorry I couldn't resist!)

Posted by: Anne | Jun 29, 2006 9:55:13 AM

I am a student currently attending the University of Phoenix. And in process of obtaining my associates degree in "criminal justice"

Posted by: Maria Franco | Aug 24, 2006 9:43:08 PM

Same student attending University of Phoenix.

I was interested in stats, regarding overcrowding in the jails and prisons, I came across this web site and article, it looked interesting. Any suggestions as to where else I might find more information pertaining to my topic "Jail Overcrowding" especially regarding the safety of law enforcement as well as the community.

Any suggestions or help on this would be most apprecitive.

Thank you, Maria

Posted by: Maria Franco | Aug 24, 2006 9:48:35 PM

Maria...if you want the latest figures check out the CDCR website. Go to reports, I think on the left hand side of the page. Next page opens, click on current weekly numbers or population reports ( I dont remmeber which it's called) It will give you not only how many inmates are in each Ca. facility this week but how many were paroled in the last week for each prison. It will aslo break down the design capacity for each level of each prison, the staffed capacity, the current population and then it shows you at what percent each prison is operating at. For instance, LA facility is operating at almost 600%!!!!!!! Thats overcrowded!!!!

Posted by: want2binformed | Jul 28, 2007 5:45:54 PM

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 Training sentencing judges | Main | Could we get more Blakely/Booker SCOTUS surprises this week? 

June 11, 2006

The sorry state of California's prisons

Following up this week's major policy report on the state of America's prisons by the bipartisan Commission on Safety and Abuse in America's Prisons, today the Washington Post has this extended article describing the crisis condition of California's prison system. Here is how it begins:

This is what conditions are like at one of California's best prisons, the California Rehabilitation Center: Built to hold 1,800 inmates, it now bulges with more than 4,700 and is under nearly constant lockdown to prevent fights. Portions of the buildings, which date to the 1920s, are so antiquated that the electricity is shut off during rainstorms so the prisoners aren't electrocuted. The facility's once-vaunted drug rehab program has a three-month-long waiting list, and the prison is short 75 guards. It is even worse throughout the rest of California's 32 other prisons, which make up the second-largest system in the nation after the federal Bureau of Prisons. Despite a vow from Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) to cut the prison population, it has surged in recent months to more than 173,000, the worst overcrowding in the country, costing taxpayers more than $8 billion a year. More of those inmates return to prison because the state has the nation's highest recidivism rate. A senior prison official warned not long ago of "an imminent and substantial threat to the public" and fears of riots have only increased, prison officials and correctional officers said. The situation has left Schwarzenegger, who faces reelection this year, with one of his biggest political problems.

The rest of the thoughtful article highlights the transition from a rehabilitative to a law-and-order model of sentencing and corrections. Indeed, the Commission's report, entitled "Confronting Confinement," urges a renewed emphasis on rehabilitation in prison systems as a salve for modern prison problems. (Additional effective media coverage of the report comes from the AP and the Los Angeles Times.)

June 11, 2006 at 10:40 AM | Permalink

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 California's Desperate Need for Prison and Sentencing Reform from California Progress Report

By Douglas A. Berman Professor, Moritz College of Law Ohio State University The New York Times has this extended... [Read More]

Tracked on Dec 11, 2006 1:52:46 PM

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Hello my name is Irene Rodriguez, I'am a mother of

a thrid striker, my son was convicted of a non-violent offense and sentected under the current California Three Strikes Law. To 25-years to life for a non-violent offense. I'am currently involeved with Families To Amend The Three Strikes Law and have been since the incareration of my son over 6 years ago. I commend you for your article and any information that we can get to the public regarding this law. The people of California we fooled into voting for this law. We all thought it was to get the Richard Allen Davis's off the streets and away from our children to keep them safe. It was or we thought to take his kind of the streets, the rapist, the murderers, the one's that continue to go after our little ones.

Thank You, Irene Rodriguez San Jose, Ca.

children who cant protect themselves.

Posted by: Irene Rodriguez | Dec 12, 2006 5:45:12 PM

I am a mother of a son who has never committed a crime before, only 18years old and simply just hung around the wrong crowed, his crime was burglary, yes I know it's violent, but it was one time and the only time he ever committed this crime and no one was harmed nor confronted, nor was anyone armed and dangerous just plain stupid (Mind you, I'm aware of the laws in California about burglary) and they charged him with two strikes and sentenced him to 4years in prison, HE FACED 18YEARS IN PRISON BEFORE THE PLEA BARGIN, I guess $10,000.00 paid for a more lenient sentence? Never once did they consider any other solution other than to throw him into prison and lock him up and throw away the key. Oh by the way, because he has two strikes he was denied probation. He will serve 85% of his sentence because of his two strikes, pay restitution, pay court fees, and after he gets out and for as long as he lives on this earth, he'll never have his record expunged because he was denied that life changing right... in essence, he could be potentially damned for the rest of his life. Furthermore, during our ins and outs of court hearings, there was a man who was charged with two counts of child molestation, and was allowed to go home and come back to court the following month, because the child wasn't "young" enough, they deemed this mans actions as "not violent enough"??? What? Go figure? Oh and now, I'm suppose to feel safe. This man was allowed to do this not once but twice and potentially again and again? Okay, I guess I don't know much about the law, but there are some crimes "we" can commit and would be allowed to walk out the door and repeat them again being very careful not to turn these repeated offenses into strikes.

Posted by: Andrea McDonald | Aug 31, 2007 1:30:36 AM

toshiba pa3382u-1brs battery



Posted by: | Oct 14, 2008 11:28:12 PM

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If the total tax burden on residents is ever going to be reduced, some of those government bodies have to go. The Lake County Board noted in 2018, in reference to the Lakes Region Sanitary District, Every time customers of the LRSD flush their toilet, they pay four taxes and fees to three different government entities.
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July 25, 2007

The latest chapter in the California prison overcrowding saga

This AP story provides the basic details on the latest development in the on-going saga over California's prison overcrowding problems:

California's $7.8 billion prison reform plan will only make conditions worse behind bars, two federal judges said in ordering the creation of a judicial panel to recommend better ways to ease prison crowding. The move, which could lead to the capping of the inmate population or the early release of some prisoners, drew criticism from Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, who said he would appeal. U.S. District Court Judges Lawrence Karlton of Sacramento and Thelton Henderson of San Francisco held a joint hearing on the matter in June and issued the simultaneous opinions Monday. They said the state's prison system has grown so large that conditions make it impossible to provide acceptable medical and mental health care to inmates. Last spring, lawmakers agreed to build 53,000 new prison and jail cells as part of an ambitious $7.8 billion program to address a crisis that has been building for decades, but the judges rejected the plan. Karlton and Henderson said the state can't hire enough guards and medical professionals to provide proper care and oversight for the inmates it has now, let alone the thousands more who might be added through the building program. "From all that presently appears, new beds will not alleviate this problem but will aggravate it," Karlton wrote.

Thanks to the New York Times, the order from Judge Henderson can be accessed at this link. Also, the California Progress Report provides this extended analysis of the district judges' orders. And, the Sacramento Bee has this thoughtful editorial responding to the federal judges' new order. Here is how it ends:

None of these [California political] leaders seem to get it. The courts are concluding that they are the lawbreakers because of their refusals to confront the overcrowding crisis. This does not necessarily mean that the three-judge panel will order early release of inmates. In his decision, Henderson made clear he "would like nothing more" than to avoid such an order. If state leaders would make some meaningful moves toward sentencing reform, parole, drug treatment programs, real rehabilitation and better medical care, it's still possible they could retain some control over the outcome of this legal showdown.

July 25, 2007 at 07:57 AM | Permalink

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Here is a link to Judge Karlton's order

http://207.41.19.127/caed/DOCUMENTS/Opinions/Karlton/90-520.pdf

Posted by: | Jul 25, 2007 1:26:51 PM

Manufacture evidence deceive the jury; manufacture more prisons deceive the public. As long as california public officials allow serious major fraudulent/false evidence to be presented/instructed to jury to convict then you will continue to have the scales of justice rigged for anyone to fail and be convicted and thus "over-crowding". What is needed is case review. I could help in this job of case review. Thank you. MOLINA 927 south Bruce-# 5 Anaheim, Ca. 92804

Posted by: MOLINA | Aug 21, 2007 4:58:29 AM

My husband and brother-in-law were convicted in 1979 and sentenced 15 to life for a crime they did not actively participate in but just happened to be at the wrong place and time. My husband has remained disciplinary free for the the past 21+ years. He and my brother-in-law are beyond their Matrix they should have come home a long time ago. I understand that the law says that you should pay the price for your crime, but not your whole life. I feel alot of people are not aware that the release of the prisoners should start with the "Lifers" and work their way out. What do you think?

Posted by: Marichia Castillo - Wife | Sep 19, 2007 10:42:49 PM

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 "State Intentions and the Law of Punishment" | Main | New NY Times editorial on felon disenfranchisement 

August 4, 2009

Federal judicial panel orders California to drastically cut prison population

This New York Times piece provides the highlights of a major prison conditions ruling coming from California late today:

A panel of federal judges ordered the California prison system on Tuesday to reduce its inmate population of 150,000 by 40,000  roughly 27 percent  within two years. The judges said that reducing prison crowding in California was the only way to change what they called an unconstitutional prison health care system that causes one unnecessary death a week. In a scathing 184-page order, the judges criticized state officials, saying they had failed to comply with previous orders to fix the health care system in the prisons and reduce crowding, and recommended remedies, including reform of the parole system. The special three-judge panel also described a chaotic prison system where prisoners were stacked in triple bunk beds in gymnasiums, hallways and day rooms; where single guards were often forced to monitor scores of inmates at a time; and where ill inmates died for lack of treatment. In these overcrowded conditions, inmate-on-inmate violence is almost impossible to prevent, infectious diseases spread more easily, and lockdowns are sometimes the only means by which to maintain control, the panel wrote. In short, Californias prisons are bursting at the seams and are impossible to manage. Attorney General Jerry Brown said previously that he intended to appeal the ruling to the United States Supreme Court. Officials said they would not comment on Tuesday until they had time to read the decision.

Thanks to this post at How Appealing, everyone can check out additional major medial coverage and the full 184-page order(!) at this link. Here are the first two paragraphs of the ruling:

Californias correctional system is in a tailspin, the states independent oversight agency has reported. Ex. P3 at i (Jan. 2007 Little Hoover Commission Report, Solving Californias Corrections Crisis: Time Is Running Out). Tough-on-crime politics have increased the population of Californias prisons dramatically while making necessary reforms impossible. Id. at ii, 2-5, 9, 20. As a result, the states prisons have become places of extreme peril to the safety of persons they house, Ex. P1 at 7-8 (Governor Schwarzeneggers Oct. 4, 2006 Prison Overcrowding State of Emergency Declaration), while contributing little to the safety of Californias residents, Ex. P3 at ii. California spends more on corrections than most countries in the world, but the state reaps fewer public safety benefits. Id. at 14. Although Californias existing prison system serves neither the public nor the inmates well, the state has for years been unable or unwilling to implement the reforms necessary to reverse its continuing deterioration. In this proceeding, we address two particular problems that every day threaten the lives and health of California prisoners. First, the medical and mental health care available to inmates in the California prison system is woefully and constitutionally inadequate, and has been for more than a decade. The United States Constitution does not require that the state provide its inmates with state-of-the-art medical and mental health care, nor does it require that prison conditions be comfortable. California must simply provide care consistent with the minimal civilized measure of lifes necessities, Rhodes v. Chapman, 452 U.S. 337, 347 (1981)  care sufficient to prevent the unnecessary and wanton infliction of pain or death, Estelle v. Gamble, 429 U.S. 97, 103-04 (1976). Tragically, Californias inmates have long been denied even that minimal level of medical and mental health care, with consequences that have been serious, and often fatal. Inmates are forced to wait months or years for medically necessary appointments and examinations, and many receive inadequate medical care in substandard facilities that lack the medical equipment required to conduct routine examinations or afford essential medical treatment. Seriously mentally ill inmates languish in horrific conditions without access to necessary mental health care, raising the acuity of mental illness throughout the system and increasing the risk of inmate suicide. A significant number of inmates have died as a result of the states failure to provide constitutionally adequate medical care. As of mid-2005, a California inmate was dying needlessly every six or seven days.

UPDATE: The Sacremento Bee has this new op-ed responding to the ruling, which is headlined "Voters, politicians let prison costs soar." Here are its closing paragraphs:

Make no mistake: California brought this situation onto itself, as the judges declared, by continuing to pass tough sentencing laws, such as three-strikes-and-you're-out, but refusing to spend what it would take to legally house, clothe, feed, medicate and educate what became a flood of new inmates. When California launched this lock-'em-up policy 30 years ago -- the result of some Democratic legislators and judges losing their positions after being accused of softness on crime -- the state had about 20,000 inmates. Now it has more than 160,000. There's an old saying in police and prosecutorial circles: Don't do the crime unless you want to do the time. A political corollary should be: Don't crack down on crime unless you're willing to spend the dime.

August 4, 2009 at 08:31 PM | Permalink

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"The minimal civilized measure of life's necessities." Our prison officials and politicians have to be ordered to do that. To treat inmates as well as the "animal lovers" want animals to be treated? And, is Jerry Brown opposing this? He wants them treated worse than the minimum standard for animals. What about animal cruelty? Are not humans mamals? What kind of immoral people have we become?

Posted by: DLJ | Aug 4, 2009 10:12:52 PM

separate drugs from violence. our drug laws are dracaonian. a failed policy. DRUGS SHOULD BE AVAILABLE. ESPECIALLY PHARMACUTICLES. Don't sell and arrest people too_ a common practice NTFers do to make crime where none would exist. I'm a pain mngmnt person who also is a compassionate care giver. single parent home school teach.

Posted by: thomas clendenin | Aug 5, 2009 1:18:39 AM

There is one way the state could open a prison hospital with over a 1000 beds almost instantly and at almost no cost - convert Coalinga State Hospital from a warehouse for aging, LOW RECIDIVISM sex offenders, the majority of whom refuse to take the state's totally made up and impossible to complete 'treatment', into a prison hospital. Offer them freedom in exchange for GPS tracking and mandatory outpatient therapy and most of the current 'patients' would take it.

Regardless of whether the Supreme Court backs the state or not, California simply can no longer afford the faux-security theater its prison system has become. It is time to wake up and realize that "getting tough on crime" is a useless exercise in futility if you don't get smart about crime at the same time.

As someone who is simply an interested lay person, I believe converting CSH would be a huge step towards that goal.



Posted by: Joe Power | Aug 5, 2009 2:33:40 AM

When all of us begin to endure the same waits and denial of access to care under Obama's Commie Care, will these conditions still violate the Eighth Amendment.

Good preview of government Commie Care for anyone over 40, and any failing organ. We will all be Cali prisoners soon.

Posted by: Supremacy Claus | Aug 5, 2009 6:48:37 AM

http://www.hoover.org/publications/policyreview/3565992.html

Posted by: federalist | Aug 5, 2009 4:08:36 PM

From federalist's link:

"The Philadelphia prisons, which house defendants before trial and sentenced prisoners, have been the subject of various class-action lawsuits since 1972. Past conditions in the prisons have been unacceptable. Over the years, many experts have observed inadequate medical care that has led to the death of inmates, unsanitary food preparation, vermin infestation, and poor plumbing, ventilation, and heating."

People never convicted of any crime commit thousands of crimes every day, "including thousands of violent crimes such as murder, rape, and robbery."

Should they be in prison in our preventative state and if so, get the money to pay for it without "inadequate medical care that has led to the death of inmates, unsanitary food preparation, vermin infestation, and poor plumbing, ventilation, and heating."

Simple.

Posted by: George | Aug 5, 2009 5:48:43 PM

Finally!

It is about time CDCR has been taken to task. The problem is complex, but CDCR has known for years what has to be done, they just refuse to do it. There will always be crime. But a change in attitude on several levels is the only long-term solution: Follow the research results not the emotional appeal when enacting laws that involve sentencing, rehabilitation programs, parole rules and regulations, etc. Many can be rehabilitated, and rehabilitation programs should be developed and evaluated by behavioral scientists, not ex-custody personnel who have worked their way up. A minority do need to be in prison. That's what it's for. Make sure inmates are better prepared to take their place in society and that they receive community support once they are on the outside. This is not coddling, this is providing what they missed the first time around AND an investment in our future public safety. Finally, don't just rely on picking up the pieces at the end, but focus on solving the social ills that contribute to crime: poor education, poor parenting skills, lack of mental health treatment, misdiagnosis of educational and mental health issues, drug education, poverty, unequal opportunities, etc.

Elaina Jannell, Ph.D.

Psychologist

AFSCME Local 2620

Posted by: Elaina Jannell | Aug 5, 2009 10:07:54 PM

I am a tax paying "California born" citizen of the state of California and I think the "special judicial panel", for the release of about 40000 "convicted criminals", should be held criminally responsible as "accomplishes" to any crime these released criminals commit. They (the special judicial panel) should be as much responsible as any normal person who "helps" a criminal commit or cover up a crime. With the release of these 40000 legally convicted people there "will" be crimes committed that would not have been committed without their required release.

There is no constitutional right to health care! These criminals, having chosen to be criminals, should be required to provide their own health care, not requiring law abiding citizens (tax payers) to provide for them.



Posted by: Gary Hansen | Sep 8, 2009 7:35:08 PM

IGNORANT IS WHAT IT IS! WE AS TAX PAYERS HAVE SPENT BILLION OF DOLLARS ON SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS SUCH AS THE LAW ENFORCEMENT , PRISON GUARDS, THE DISTICT ATTORNEYS, AND JUDGES. THE MAJORITY OF CRIME THAT THESE IMATES ARE INPRISONED FOR ARE PETY CRIMES. THE POLITICIANS USES THE MEDIA TO VILLIANIZE THE VICTIMS,AND USE FEAR TACTIC TO SCARE THE PUBLIC. THEY DO THIS BECAUSE THEY KNOW THAT THE AVERAGE CITIZEN IS IGNORANT ABOUT CRIME AND THE PRISON SYSTEM. IF WE TAKE A CLOSER LOOKK AT WHO IS BEING CONVICTED WE WILL FOUND THAT MANY OF THESE IMATES ARE INNOCENT AND JUST HAPPENED TO LOSE THEIR CASES. THE TAX PAYERS THAT ARE FOR LOCK THEM UP AND THROW AWAY THE KEYS PUT THE COPS, PROSECUTORS AND JUDGES ON A STATUS OF GODS NOT KNOWNING THAT MANY OF THESE SWORNED IN OFFICERS ARE SIMPLY CRIMINALS THAT ARE RELYING ON THE POWER THAT IGNORANT TAX PAYERS HAVE GIVEN THEM. IT IS THE GOVERNMENT THAT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR PROTECTING OUR BORDERS AND KEEPING DRUGS OUT OF THIS COUNTRY AND THEY HAVE FAILED MISERBLY AND HAVE INDANGERED FREE AS WELL AS INPRISONED CITIZENS.

Posted by: annie hall | Sep 10, 2009 7:09:41 PM

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 SCOTUS stays executions in Arizona and Texas apparently based on lethal injection drug concerns | Main | In Massachusetts to talk about federal sentencing at my alma mater 

April 5, 2011

Budgets and litigation have shrunk California's prison population ... but not enough

Stateline.org has this fantastic new piece on the state of California's prison system under the headlined "California shrinks its prisons, but overcrowding persists." Here are excerpts:

As the financially battered state enacts huge budget cuts, it has no choice but to downsize its sprawling correctional system, which now consumes 10 percent of the state budget and swallows more taxpayer dollars than higher education  a fact that, if public opinion surveys are accurate, Californians abhor. A single prison bed costs taxpayers $44,500 a year. The federal courts have dialed up the pressure, putting state officials on notice that severe overcrowding  a fact of life in California prisons for years  is no longer acceptable. Two years ago, a panel of three federal judges found that overcrowding had created unconstitutionally inhumane conditions, ordering the state to reduce its inmate population by more than 40,000  a staggering figure that eclipses the entire prisoner total of all but nine states. Now, the U.S. Supreme Court is about to weigh in on the overcrowding problem by deciding whether to uphold, strike down or modify that order. Oral arguments in the case, Schwarzenegger v. Plata, made clear that the courts decision could break along familiar ideological lines.... Californias prison downsizing efforts began before the Supreme Courts involvement. In 2006, when the state's inmate population reached an all-time high of more than 172,000, then-Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger declared an overcrowding emergency, warning that inmates and guards alike faced extreme peril. About 10,000 inmates were promptly shipped to private prisons in Arizona, Mississippi and Oklahoma. More recently, thousands of others had their release dates moved up as state lawmakers, usually known for enhancing criminal penalties, were forced to change course. Through an expansion of so-called good-time credits, they authorized many inmates to leave prison ahead of schedule while reducing parole supervision for others, hoping to reduce the number sent back for relatively minor technical violations. Today, California's in-state inmate population is down to 152,000. Governor Jerry Brown, who took office in January, hopes to keep going. Brown wants to shift tens of thousands of low-level state inmates to county jails, even though many of those jails themselves are at capacity. If enacted, Brown's plan could reduce the state prison population by another 38,000 within four years, according to a nonpartisan legislative estimate. It also may force counties to release thousands of offenders from their jails to make room for the state transfers.... In the notoriously divided Legislature, where budget negotiations between Brown and Republicans collapsed last week, it is difficult to find consensus on any policy, let alone one as emotionally and politically charged as prisons. Not a single Republican voted for Browns plan to shift inmates to the counties. And with funding for the plan now uncertain, there is discussion of leaning more heavily on spending reductions to balance the budget  cuts that could speed prisoner releases and decimate what remains of inmate rehabilitation programs. Meanwhile, fears about a spike in crime are common. Law enforcement officials warn that more releases  whether they are ordered by the Legislature or by the Supreme Court  will have predictable long-term consequences on crime, given that parolees in California are far more likely than in other states to run into trouble again. Im not Nostradamus, but we have a 70 percent recidivism rate. That is a fact, says Sacramento County Sheriff Scott Jones. If you release 40,000 inmates, 28,000 of those will reoffend.

April 5, 2011 at 04:04 PM | Permalink

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interesting and about time!

but i'm not sure how this part would work!

"It also may force counties to release thousands of offenders from their jails to make room for the state transfers...."

Just how would it even be legal to demand a country or city jail to hold prison inmates? absent a service contract at X dollars per day.

Just tell em the inn is FULL!

Posted by: rodsmith | Apr 5, 2011 5:43:23 PM

Rod,

Cities and counties are creatures of state law. Absent state constitution home rule provisions (which federal courts have no power to enforce, though state courts do), the state legislature is free to require pretty much anything of its political subdivisions. That would include housing state prisoners in preference to county prisoners in county facilities at county expense.

In addition it is likely that counties would make the choice that state prisoners that have been foisted off on them are more in need of scarce cell capacity from a simple risk assessment standpoint.

Posted by: Soronel Haetir | Apr 5, 2011 6:42:32 PM

Soronel:

You sound like an apologist! I would like to go one step further. I am not a worthless lawyer. I am actually, an accomplished engineer. I have an interest in law because I had over 20 years of dealing with the CFR and the 'Feds'.

Why are we doing this? We are bankrupt, because of the "guberment".

Elected positions are like prostitutes (even SC judges).

How many more people do you want to make prisoners or, (my gosh), sex offenders?

Why are we (Bill, Doug, Ivy League Law Professors) and College Presidents (not one should make over $250,000 a year) so stupid and providing so damn little ROI?

We have been brainwashed, just like (I hate to say it, because the term has been belittled too much and everyone wants to berate those who use it (Nazi Germany), Gulp.

Please read a little bit of C. S. Lewis and Philip Wiley (G o V) and some old Sydney Harris (or Mike Royko) columnns and try to remain objective.

We are in very deep trouble.

Who is John Gault? Why are public sector unions, (or even Civil Service) allowed to continue?

Posted by: albeed | Apr 6, 2011 12:06:37 AM

horse pucky soronel

ONCE that individual became a STATE INMATE they are the legal property of the state till their sentence is finished and the STATE is liable for any and ALL expense in housing, feeling and caring for them...dont' think so...take a good long long look at the massive suit from calif now before the u.s. supreme court!

sorry they can't then turn around and demand local govt's pick up the tab and house them in local jails.

And any state govt official who does think so needs to be hung up by their heels till some blood manages to sink into their brains and MAYBE jumpstart it.

Posted by: rodsmith | Apr 6, 2011 1:27:40 PM

Thank you for sharing,it is very helpful and I really like it!

Posted by: Big pony | Apr 11, 2011 6:04:18 AM

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 "Effective Plea Bargaining Counsel" | Main | Lots of death penalty headlines in wake of capture of one Boston bomber 

April 21, 2013

Do recent California prison reforms demonstrate Plata ruling was a success or a failure?

On the sprawling grounds of the state prison, built here in 1955, a new three-story, $24 million treatment center for mentally ill inmates stands out because of its freshly painted walls and rooftop solar panels. Inside, on a recent morning, psychologists and social workers were leading group therapy sessions for inmates in large, brightly lighted rooms while individual meetings were being held in smaller offices. By all accounts, the opening of the new wing in January, as well as that of a crisis center and a housing unit for more troubled inmates in recent years, has improved the quality of mental health care in this prison, known formally as the California Medical Facility. In the past, the group sessions were held in a housing units common room and left those not participating locked in their cells, unable to socialize or watch television.... California is arguing that the building here, just west of Sacramento, part of the $1.2 billion spent on improving mental health care in the last three years, is an example of why the state should be allowed to regain fuller control over its prisons, the nations largest correctional system. But federal judges recently issued stinging criticisms of the state, denying its bid for greater authority in two related cases and affirming the continuing need for federal overseers to achieve a level of care required by the United States Constitution. Gov. Jerry Brown, who has been pressing strongly for the end of federal oversight since the beginning of the year, has said that the state will appeal the two decisions. Meanwhile, Mr. Brown and other state officials have been given until early May to submit a plan to further reduce overcrowding in the state prisons or be held in contempt of court.... The judges and lawyers representing inmates said that the improvements had been made only because of federal oversight. We know theyve needed treatment space for 20 years, Michael Bien, a lawyer who has long represented inmates, said of the new building here. Its just an example of yes, they did it  great. They did it only under compulsion of the law. It wasnt voluntary. Mr. Bien was involved in a class-action lawsuit regarding mental health care filed by inmates against the state more than two decades ago. In 1995, a federal court appointed a special master to carry out reforms in mental health care, which it found inadequate at the time and in violation of the Constitution. The court ruled this month that the federal overseer was necessary to remedy continuing constitutional violations behind problems like the high suicide rate. The state is arguing that mental health care meets or exceeds constitutional standards. It is spending $400 million a year on mental health care in its prisons, and a dozen new facilities valued at a total of $1.2 billion have been built in the past three years or are under construction.... A special three-judge federal court also denied the states motion to overturn an order to reduce prison overcrowding from its current level of 150 percent of capacity to 137.5 percent by the end of this year. In 2009, the court found that adequate mental and medical health care could not be delivered because of overcrowding  which reached more than 200 percent in 2006  and ordered the state to reduce the prison population gradually. The Supreme Court upheld the order in 2011 after the state appealed. California has already cut its prison population by 25,000 inmates to about 120,000 by sending low-level offenders to county jails in a policy known as realignment. Mr. Beard said that sending 10,000 more inmates to county jails  the number required to reach the court-mandated goal of 137.5 percent of capacity  would overwhelm the counties. Some county officials, forced to release inmates early from increasingly packed jails, have blamed realignment for a rise in break-ins and auto thefts. Barry Krisberg, a law professor at the University of California, Berkeley, and an expert on Californias prisons who testified in the 2011 Supreme Court case, said it was unlikely the state would succeed in its appeals because of that 2011 ruling. He cant win these cases, Mr. Krisberg said, referring to the governor. In my view, its nearly impossible to go to the same Supreme Court and within a year ask them the same question. Instead of looking only to realignment, Mr. Krisberg said, the state must consider the politically difficult option of shortening sentences for good behavior, a policy that previous governors have carried out without an increase in crime. If they were to restore good-time credits for the people who are doing everything were asking of them in prison, they could get these numbers, he said, referring to the 137.5 percent goal.

There was lots of debate, both within the Justices' opinions and in the outside punditry, about whether and why the Supreme Court was wise or foolish to uphold in its 2011 Plata ruling a federal judicial panel's "prisoner release order" based on California's dismal record in running its overcrowded prisons. Now, nearly two years later, this article from today's New York Times prompts the question in the title of this post. The article is headlined "California Tries to Regain Fuller Control of Prisons," and here are excerpts:

April 21, 2013 at 11:43 AM | Permalink

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My opinion is this was a ruling that no person should object to happening within the system. There's so many inmates being given sentences where the amount of time given doesn't seem to fit the crime. I don't believe the 3-strike law has been used for the purpose it was written. I believe everyone should have to pay the time for the crime committed. Yet, I don't believe a person should be given sentences that are based on the crime they've paid society for committing. Prisoners once released are not really free because of their having to report to parole or probation and because of that stipulation this gives the police the reason to harass the ex-convict. The ex-convict is arrested on a violation that is ridicules and given an astronomical amount of time for not having an address or having a positive UA that the inmate didn't get any rehabilitation while incarcerated. Therefore, this contributes to the overcrowding within the prison system. I strongly feel that giving low level prisoners an early release would actually be the logical step in reducing inmate population. Most of the low level prisoners are in prison for crimes that relate to drugs and not getting the treatment to get their lives back to normalacy. The State Of California spend more money on housing inmates than spent for education. If those monies were spent to educate these prisoners on their addictions there would be less prisoners in the system.

Posted by: Johnnie Palmer | Jun 13, 2013 11:31:33 AM

I submittted a blog regarding the overcrowding of the prisons and failed to state I'm a single mother of a son that I had asked for help for him when he was a teenager and the system did not honor my request. My son is serving an eight year sentence in a prison that is located out of the state of California. Therefore, his children or myself are not able to visit him because of the state relocating him so far away. The system states they want the inmates to interact with society but how is that accomplished when they have no visitors. The charges are for possession with an intent to sell. The informant was given $30,000 to get on the stand and lie and had charges pending at the time. What would make the judicial system pay one criminal to testify against another criminal and get paid. The judicial system needs to be looked at by the people and some things definitely need to be changed.

Posted by: Johnnie Palmer | Jun 13, 2013 11:41:35 AM

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 Another effective (but still incomplete) look at possible sentencing outcomes for those prosecuted for Capitol riot | Main | Interesting and critical accounting of Biden Administration's criminal justice work over first 100 days 

May 2, 2021

With new good behavior rules, is California on track to achieve historic "cut 50" in its prison population?

The question in the title of this post is prompted by this new AP article, headlined "76,000 California inmates now eligible for earlier releases," though it also picks up on a broader, decades-long prison reform story in the Golden State. First, from the AP:

California is giving 76,000 inmates, including violent and repeat felons, the opportunity to leave prison earlier as the state aims to further trim the population of what once was the nations largest state correctional system. More than 63,000 inmates convicted of violent crimes will be eligible for good behavior credits that shorten their sentences by one-third instead of the one-fifth that had been in place since 2017. That includes nearly 20,000 inmates who are serving life sentences with the possibility of parole. The new rules take effect Saturday but it will be months or years before any inmates go free earlier. Corrections officials say the goal is to reward inmates who better themselves while critics said the move will endanger the public. Under the change, more than 10,000 prisoners convicted of a second serious but nonviolent offense under the states three strikes law will be eligible for release after serving half their sentences. Thats an increase from the current time-served credit of one-third of their sentence. The same increased release time will apply to nearly 2,900 nonviolent third strikers, the corrections department projected.... The changes were approved this week by the state Office of Administrative Law. The goal is to increase incentives for the incarcerated population to practice good behavior and follow the rules while serving their time, and participate in rehabilitative and educational programs, which will lead to safer prisons, department spokeswoman Dana Simas said in a statement. Additionally, these changes would help to reduce the prison population by allowing incarcerated persons to earn their way home sooner, she said.... Simas said the department was granted authority to make the changes through the rulemaking process and under the current budget. By making them emergency regulations the agency could impose the new rules without public comment. The department now must submit permanent regulations next year. They will be considered a public hearing and opportunity for public comment. Kent Scheidegger, legal director of the Criminal Justice Legal Foundation that represents crime victims, said the notion that the credits are for good behavior is a misnomer. You dont have to be good to get good time credits. People who lose good time credits for misconduct get them back, they dont stay gone, he said. They could be a useful device for managing the population if they had more teeth in them. But they dont. Theyre in reality just a giveaway.... California has been under court orders to reduce a prison population that peaked at 160,000 in 2006 and saw inmates being housed in gymnasiums and activity rooms. In 2011, the U.S. Supreme Court backed federal judges requirement that the state reduce overcrowding. The population has been declining since the high courts decision, starting when the state began keeping lower-level felons in county jails instead of state prisons. In 2014, voters reduced penalties for property and drug crimes. Two years later, voters approved allowing earlier parole for most inmates. Before the pandemic hit, the population had dropped to 117,00 inmates. In the last year, 21,000 more have left state prisons  with about half being held temporarily in county jails.

This blog has long followed the many remarkable chapters in California's prison reform story (see a sampling below). I particularly recall amusing myself with this post and title, "Hasta la vista, prison overcrowding!", when Gov Schwarzenegger 15 years ago issued a proclamation calling the California Legislature into special session to address prison crowding issues. The state prison population was actually well over 170,000 around that time. Some population reductions started around the Plata litigation  the SCOTUS ruling noted that, at "the time of trial, Californias correctional facilities held some 156,000 persons"  and further prison population reduction efforts kicked into high gear in the years following the Supreme Court's important Plata decision.

As this AP article notes, before the pandemic, the California prison population was under 120,000. But as of last week, as detailed in this state weekly population report, the population now stands at 95,817. If these new good behavior rules could possibly result in another prison population reduction of around 10,000  and that is probably a very big "if"  then California will have achieved a remarkable decarceration milestone. If it can get down to around 86,000 prisoners, the state of California  which not so long ago had the largest state prison population within a country with the largest prison populaion in the world  will have cut its prison population by 50%. I would surely call that a golden achievement for the Golden State.

A few of many prior related posts about California prison populations and reforms:

May 2, 2021 at 07:28 PM | Permalink

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Until SCOTUS backed the California Supreme Court's decision, the prison guards' union kept fomenting the population and the Legislature to remain "tough on crime". The guards' union even lobbied against changing California's 3-strikes laws, which had resulted in 3,300 inmates having life sentences. The tail wagged the dog for far too long in California.

Posted by: Jim Gormley | May 2, 2021 9:23:12 PM

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Simply amazing, is how Robin Davis, owner of Maxie Bs, describes these unique bars that are on her Greensboro, North Carolina, bakery menu all year long. They are both gluten-free and vegan, which delights many of our customers. We really developed them for this purpose  to provide a wonderful dessert item for people looking for either something vegan, gluten-free or both. If you dont need a vegan or gluten-free bar, you can also use all-purpose flour and butter instead, Davis says.

The crust and topping each have the same ingredients in the same amounts with a slightly different technique. Simply measure them out at the same time, but place the crusts dry ingredients in a food processor bowl and the toppings dry ingredients in a separate large bowl before proceeding as directed in the instructions.

Jam Crumble Bars

Yields: 8 bars

Crust

 cup gluten-free or all-purpose flour

 cup old-fashioned oats (do not use quick oats)

 cup chopped pecans

2 Tbsp plus 2 tsp granulated sugar

2 Tbsp plus 2 tsp packed brown sugar

 tsp baking soda

 tsp salt

 cup melted coconut oil or butter

nonstick cooking spray

Topping

 cup gluten-free or all-purpose flour

 cup old-fashioned oats (do not use quick oats)

 cup chopped pecans

2 Tbsp plus 2 tsp granulated sugar

2 Tbsp plus 2 tsp packed brown sugar

 tsp baking soda

 tsp salt

 cup melted coconut oil or butter

1 cups of your favorite berry jam

Preheat oven to 325F.

Set up food processor with knife blade attached. Measure out dry crust ingredients and place in food processor bowl; measure out dry topping ingredients and place in large bowl.

Prepare Crust: Pulse dry ingredients in food processor bowl to combine. Add oil and pulse just until ingredients are moistened.

Spray 8-by-8-inch metal, glass or ceramic baking pan with nonstick cooking spray. Line pan with 2 sheets of parchment paper going in opposite directions so that parchment extents 1 inch over all sides of pan. Spray parchment generously with nonstick cooking spray. Press crust mixture into bottom of pan.

Prepare Topping: Stir dry ingredients until well combined. Drizzle in oil and stir with fork just until a crumble topping is formed, but not a paste.

Spread jam evenly and almost to the edges on top of crust. Sprinkle topping evenly over jam to cover; lightly press topping into jam. Bake 45 to 50 minutes or until edges are golden brown (center may still appear loose). Cool completely on wire rack. Use parchment to lift bar out of pan and onto cutting board. Cut bar in half, then cut each strip into 4 bars. Store bars in airtight container at room temperature up to 5 days.

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SIOUX CITY -- The victim of an early Saturday homicide was assaulted and shot after coming to the aid of his girlfriend, who had come to a west side bar to retrieve him from an escalating confrontation.

Martez Harrison, 22, of Sioux City, was shot once in the chest shortly after 1 a.m. across the street from Uncle Dave's Bar, 1427 W. Third St., according to documents filed in Woodbury County District Court. He died of his injury at a Sioux City hospital.

Complaints filed by police identified the shooter as Dwight Evans, 17, of Sioux City, who was arrested later that night on charges of first-degree murder, assault while participating in a felony, going armed with intent, possession of a controlled substance and failure to affix a drug tax stamp. He is being held in the Woodbury County Jail on a $1 million bond.

Also arrested was Lawrence Canady, 20, of Sioux City, who is being held on a $250,000 bond and faces charges of assault causing bodily injury, willful injury causing serious injury, assault while participating in a felony and using a juvenile to commit an offense.

According to court documents, Evans was outside Uncle Dave's Bar after being denied entrance and was armed with a .38-caliber revolver with an obliterated serial number.

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SIOUX CENTER, Iowa -- An animal rights group has asked Sioux County Attorney Thomas Kunstle to investigate a Sioux Center pork plant that was cited last month by regulators for the inhumane slaughter of a pig.

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals sent a letter to Kunstle on Monday asking his office to investigate Perdue Premium Meat Company and file suitable criminal charges against the company and responsible workers for violations of the Humane Methods Slaughter Act.

Kunstle said he had received the letter and he would see if any charges are warranted.

"It's a complaint received by my office, and I will look into the matter," Kunstle said.

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The U.S. Food Safety and Inspection Service on April 9 sent a notice of suspension to Perdue Premium Meat for an incident in which a federal veterinarian observed the failed slaughter of a hog with a handheld captive bolt device. The hog was killed during a second attempt.

Later on April 9, the FSIS sent the company a notice that the suspension was being held in abeyance, enabling the plant to resume slaughtering, after receiving details of Perdue Premium Meat's corrective actions and preventive measures that were being taken to correct the violation.
CollegeNow courses are transferrable to colleges and universities, but credit acceptance is up to the receiving school, Owen said.

With the University of Nebraska at Omaha and other regional institutions, those transfer paths are well defined, he said.

MCC also has relationships with hundreds of universities and colleges, and largely the general education requirements, like English, math and social sciences, will transfer, he said.

"So if a kid already knows I'm going off to the university this fall, but I want to get a head start, they're going to want to take classes that are on that transfer path," he said.

The pandemic caused many high school students to fall behind or miss out on the CollegeNow offerings, said Chuck Chevalier, associate vice president of secondary partnerships and enrollment management.

A 10-week summer session will start June 6 and end Aug. 16. There will also be two five-week sessions, one running June 6 to July 12, the other July 13 to Aug. 16.

Whether a student gets high school credit for taking the course is up to the high school, he said.

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At least eight people were taken to hospitals Sunday after a crash that left a car dangling off the guardrail of a bridge in Ocean City, Maryland, authorities say.

Fire and police units were dispatched to the bridge a little after 2:45 p.m., the Ocean City Fire Department said in a news release.

Arriving authorities found one vehicle half over the guardrail and multiple people injured, the department said.

"During the collision, one pediatric patient was ejected from the car teetering over the guardrail and landed into the Assawoman Bay," it added.

That's when a good Samaritan stepped in and made a brave rescue -- by "immediately" jumping over the guardrail and into the bay, saving the infant.

Rob Korb, a life member of the Ocean City Fire Department and a Senior Deputy Fire Marshal in Worcester County told CNN he "stumbled" on the incident while he was out and running errands.

"The real hero in this situation is the Good Samaritan that jumped in to provide life saving measures for the infant. I'd like to shake his hand or buy him a beer or both someday," Korb said.
Reaching herd immunity in U.S. may not be likely: As the state looks to open up a bit more, The New York Times reports that public health experts do not believe, at least for now, that the U.S. will see 80% of the population vaccinated, the point at which wed have herd immunity. Now, more than half the adults in the United States have been inoculated with at least one dose of a vaccine. But daily vaccination rates are slipping, and there is widespread consensus among scientists and public health experts that the herd immunity threshold is not attainable  at least not in the foreseeable future, and perhaps not ever.
A man who shot and killed two people and wounded a third at a Wisconsin casino's restaurant before police killed him had been fired from the eatery and banned from the property, authorities said Monday.

The 62-year-old attacker walked into the Duck Creek Kitchen and Bar on Saturday and shot two people at a waiter station at close range with a 9 mm handgun, then shot a man outside the restaurant, Brown County Sheriff Todd Delain said during a news conference. A team from the Green Bay Police Department shot and killed the attacker on the north side of the building near a parking garage, he said.

Delain said one of the men who was killed was 32 years old and the other was 35. The man who was wounded outside the complex is 28 years old and was in serious but stable condition at a Milwaukee hospital.

The restaurant is part of a hotel and conference center that includes the Oneida Casino.

Oneida Chairman Tehassi Hill told WLUK-TV on Sunday that he was in "disbelief" and called the shooting "scary." He said the tribe prohibits firearms on its properties but that "(mass shootings are) kind of a regular thing in this country."
An Ord man is suing the town for his attorney fees and is seeking punitive damages for filing a lawsuit against him last year to try to get him to stop writing letters and emails to city officials and the police department that they called "burdensome."

The city lost the suit. Now, Guy Brock is suing them.

In the lawsuit filed this week in U.S. District Court of Nebraska in Lincoln, Brock's attorney, J.L. Spray, said during the last decade Brock has had a practice of writing letters to the city of Ord and its elected representatives related to city government.

On March 4, 2020, the city filed a lawsuit against him in Valley County District Court seeking a restraining order or an injunction to stop him from "sending communication of any kind to the City of Ord and the Ord Police Department unless directly related to a city service or other city function related specifically to the Defendant and his property," City Attorney Heather Sikyta wrote in the complaint.
Rebel Wilson has had some "bad news" about her fertility but she urged those going through a similar thing to remember that there's "light about to shine through all the dark clouds".
Countless families have entrusted the care of their loved ones  veterans who have served and scarified for this country with honor, and deserve the highest standards  to the State of Illinois, the senators said. We urge the VA to help ensure that our state is up to the task in the face of challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
Report: All new cars and trucks in U.S. could be electric by 2035

Posted on 3 May 2021 by Bud Ward

This is a re-post from Yale Climate Connections

Thinking ahead to what (and whether?) you may be driving  may have parked in your garage or driveway or parking lot  a few years from now? Like, for instance, in 2035?

Only with robust public policy initiatives as yet not on the books (and perhaps not even on the horizon?), could you find yourself choosing, whether a new passenger car or truck, from among only all-electric vehicles? Thats the case if the findings of a newly released analysis from the University of California, Berkeley, and colleagues are to be believed.

The new reports, by Berkeley scholars and colleagues from the nonprofit group Energy Innovation, find (spoiler alert here: big caveat coming) that with the right policy across a number of areas, all new cars and trucks sold in the United States can be powered by electricity by 2035. Minus those policy adjustments, the researchers warn, most of the potential to reduce emissions, cut transportation costs, and increase jobs will not be realized.

(The sweeping studies described in this piece were made public just prior to news reports that the Biden administration was about to commit to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by about 50% by just the end of this decade, requiring profound changes at home, the Washington Post reported.)

Technical and economic hurdles are challenging but achievable

Political will, policy, and consumer acceptance  not technical or economic feasibility  are the largest barriers to be overcome, the report authors write at one point.

In what must seem a blanket endorsement of EV proponents, they say their analyses demonstrate that improved battery technology, costs, manufacturing scale, and industry ambition will accelerate rapid electrification of cars and trucks. And they are not awed by the need to build the extensive battery charging infrastructure needed to support a transition to electric vehicles: All that infrastructure can be built quickly and cost-effectively, they write: The pace of the required infrastructure scale-up is challenging but achievable, and the costs are modest compared with the benefits of widespread EV deployment.

And, oh yes, the related public health benefits will lead to 150,000 fewer premature deaths and a savings of $1.3 trillion in environmental and health costs over the next three decades.

The case for electric vehicles is stronger than ever before.

Jobs? That too, not a problem. In addition to saving consumers $2.7 trillion by 2050  about $1,000 annually per household  rapid electrification of new cars and trucks will lead to a net increase of more than 2 million jobs by 2035. Again that nagging if: If its all combined with a 90% clean energy grid. That, the report authors explain, means that given normal demand periods, existing hydropower and nuclear capacity, approximately half of existing fossil fuel capacity, and new battery storage, wind, and solar is sufficient to meet load dependably with a 90% clean grid.

And what about periods of high demand and/or low renewables generation? Thats covered too, as the researchers say existing fossil fuel capacity, and new battery storage, wind, and solar are sufficient to meet load dependably with a 90% clean grid. The authors do characterize the 100% EV sales by 2030/2035 and the 90% clean grid goals as certainly ambitious.

The authors point to high upfront vehicle costs and inadequate charging infrastructure  rather than to technical or economic feasibility  as hurdles to increasing EV sales and faster decarbonization to meet global climate objectives outlined in the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement.

The case for electric vehicles is stronger than ever before and one of the most exciting findings of this study is the potential for large savings for all households, said Nikit Abhyankar, senior scientist at Berkeleys Center for Environmental Public Policy. And, once more, the caveat: with the right policy and infrastructure, in which case EV cars and trucks will be much cheaper to own and operate.

Another Berkeley senior scientist involved in the study, Amol Phadke, points out in a statement that sales of electric cars and trucks are outpacing earlier forecasts and already exceeding market projections. He says performance and cost of the technology are ready to meet the needs of American drivers today, and the necessary charging infrastructure can be built cost-effectively without straining electricity grids.

If only national, state, and local policymakers, decision makers, and other leaders could muster the ambition and leadership. Minus that, our vehicle and battery manufacturing industries fall behind in global competitiveness, consumers are saddled with higher costs, and we miss the ever-narrowing window to address the climate crisis and ensure a livable planet, adds study author David Wooley, a Berkeley public policy professor and executive director of the schools Center for Environmental Public Policy.

Nettlesome public policy hurdles could be show-stoppers

But alas, there are again and still those nagging public policy obstaclesand too many intransigent policy makers. With political leadership, policy ambition, and a focus on an equitable transition for all, the U.S. can chart the course for a clean transportation future, says Sara Baldwin, director of electrification policy for Energy Innovation, the policy partner in the research project, which also involved technical support from GridLab.

Research partner Energy Innovations companion policy report details numerous legislative and regulatory policy approaches needed to incentivize the technical and economic components. Many of these ideas are likely to be reflected in the Biden administrations sweeping proposed policy agenda once details of it become clear.

It wont be easy, the researchers point out, particularly given profound philosophical, ideological, and political divisions in the policy community, especially at the national level, and considering also the virtual certainty of eventual litigation.

Seeing the country (and perhaps also much of the world?) at a crossroads with the end of fossil-fuel-powered internal combustion engine vehicles coming into clearer focus, the groups policy report readily acknowledges an obvious missing link: We lack a comprehensive clean transportation policy strategy to steer us toward a cleaner transportation tomorrow. (Memo to files: Newly confirmed Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg  take note.)

In the policy report, the authors review options ranging from a business-as-usual no-new-policy scenario to one that some might perceive, rightly or wrongly, as somewhat utopian: 100% EV sales by 2030 to 2035 in combination with a 90% clean electricity grid. On that latter scale, optimism reigns in terms of the positive climate, environmental, economic, jobs, and public health effects.

Critical importance of environmental justice, equity, inclusiveness

Too good to be true? Not so fast, report authors caution, recalling the experience of societys having jumped relatively lickety-split from horses and carriages to gas-powered cars. But there are more arrows too in their quiver  they say the potential for bold action, albeit not a universal objective in todays highly-politicized Washington, is bolstered by the widespread support among Americans for more aggressive policy action on climate change and the publics favorable attitudes toward EVs.

Clearly with Biden administration officials in mind as they pursue their sweeping infrastructure legislative proposal and other aggressive climate change actions, the Energy Innovation researchers couch their study as a guide and reference for policy makers. They spread the responsibilities also to state and local governments and to utilities.

And they include an important and timely caveat: Environmental justice, social equity, and mobility and inclusive processes must be hallmarks of the new policy initiatives they deem necessary. They specifically single out here individuals disproportionately burdened by health-damaging emissions from trucks and buses and low- and moderate-income consumers and their communities. (Think here those unlikely to seriously shop car dealer lots for the latest and greatest Tesla.)

Their hierarchy of priority policy initiatives is detailed in a multi-page chart:

Strong national fuel economy and tailpipe emissions standards for all vehicle classes. The group characterizes these as the highest priority for meeting emissions reductions.

Equity-focused policies and programs reflecting community input from those most adversely affected by transportation pollution  those held back as a result of redlined neighborhoods and frontline and underserved communities.

Temporary targeted incentives, scaling down as the market matures and as lower costs benefit more and more people and businesses;

Spending for a ubiquitous charging network and a modern grid. Here, the need is to assuage consumers and businesses concerns and build confidence.

Made in America domestic manufacturing, to help remake automakers as battery manufacturers focusing on EVs, energy storage, and more. A clear goal here: jobs, jobs, and more jobs for workers transitioning out of conventional auto industry jobs.

Smart electric utility regulations and local government leadership. The groups motive here: facilitate interconnections and integration of EVs in homes, businesses, and communities in ways that pay dividends as demand grows.

It all sets the table for the upcoming debates and controversies  in the wake of the weeks 2021 Earth Day and the two-day remotely conducted climate summit  for what could prove to be the definitive turnaround in the U.S.s international role on climate change. Or else, some might legitimately fear, just more words, followed by too-little and too-late substantive action. Time will tell.
Dear Prudence is online weekly to chat live with readers. Heres an edited transcript of this weeks chat.

Danny Lavery: Afternoon, everyone. This is my penultimate live chat, so theres just today and next Monday to get this Prudence to answer a question in real timeget it while the goings good. Lets chat!

Q. Angry roommate: I took over an apartment lease after I broke up with my boyfriend. It was a friend of a friend of a friend. Kim and I dont have much in common, but we are both quiet and clean, so it is better than most. On Friday, Kim told me she was going out and didnt have any luggage. She wasnt home by Saturday afternoon, so I started to get concerned. I called and texted her but no response. I didnt want to call the police, but during college, several young women went missing and were later found dead. One lived on my floor. The first 48 hours are the most critical in missing people cases. I went online and went through Kims social media and found her parents and older sister. I was able to Google their addresses and found the home telephone of both. I called the older sister since it seemed the lesser of two evils and left a message. On Sunday, I got woken up at 6 a.m. from an unknown number. It was Kims mom and she was nearly hysterical. She wanted to know if Kim was home. She wasnt.

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Kim was home by midmorning. She had gone over for a booty call that turned into a weekend visit and forgot to charge her phone. She had to explain it to her family. She was incandescently furious at meshe said my behavior was sick and borderline stalker, that she didnt have to check in with me, and I wasnt her warden. I protested that she had left with just her purse. Kim screamed at me that she had clothes in her car. At this point, I started shouting back: I was sorry I was worried she might be dead in a ditch or in the hospital, but Kim could have avoided this entire mess by just telling me she would be gone for the weekend or just plugging in her phone. We arent speaking and the atmosphere of the apartment is suffocating. Did I step over a line here?

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A: A few, Im afraid. It doesnt sound like you and Kim had ever had a conversation about when to check in with each other about overnight trips, so there was no shared expectation that you two would keep even informal tabs on each other when you left the house; she doesnt seem to have been in the habit of telling you when to expect her back; and your relationship as roommates has historically been distant-but-cordial. Going out of your way to look for your roommates relatives (especially when you have no idea what her relationship with her family is like) after Kim spent the weekend away was a serious overreaction, and Im not surprised she lost her composure when you attempted to justify your decision to locate and inform her family just because shed left the apartment without an overnight bag. You say, Kim could have avoided this entire mess by just telling me she would be gone for the weekend, but that suggests that Kim should have reasonably expected that her roommate would call her mother within 48 hours if she didnt text daily updates. Kim clearly didnt think that was reasonable, and for the record, neither do I.

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Thats not to say that your concern for Kim wasnt real, but the first 48 hours in a missing persons case refers to a categorically missing personsomeone whos missed work or class unexpectedly, whos stopped responding to close friends and family members. By your own admission, you and Kim arent close and dont often share your plans with each other; I think your steadily mounting discomfort and fears about your old college classmate were what pushed you to escalate, not a specific knowledge of Kims schedule or a growing consensus among Kims loved ones that she had fallen off the map and was in potential danger. Your knowledge of Kim was not equal to your feelings of concern, and when you realized you were growing worried, you ought to have taken the former more readily into accountyou might have contacted that friend of a friend before looking up her sisters phone number, for example.

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I think you should apologize and give Kim some space. You dont have to apologize for being worried, but for the conclusions you leapt to unaided as a result of that worry, and for overstepping your bounds by involving Kims family for doing something as mundane as spending an extra night at a dates house without informing her roommate first.

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Q. My parents wont approve: Over a year ago, I was in a long-term relationship with a man well call Anthony. My family, particularly my parents, loved Anthony as if he were already a part of the family. He was everything they had ever wanted in a potential son-in-law: charismatic, considerate, self-employed, and financially stable, even well-off. The problem is that I didnt feel nearly as passionate about him as they did; in fact, their admiration of him played a huge role in my decision to maintain the relationship. This was a mistake on my part, since Anthony eventually proposedin front of them, no less. I agreed to it for that reason, but later on had a serious discussion with him. I admitted that I didnt see myself with him in the long run. He took it a lot better than my familymy parents were heartbroken, acting as if I told them he had passed away. Afterward, they maintained a sort of relationship by exchanging pleasantries on Facebook and Instagramsomething I had nothing to do with, although they never hesitated to tell me what he was up to and that he was single.

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Fast-forward to now, Ive begun a relationship with a man who Ive fallen deeply for. He and I are very happy, and the time has come for my family to meet him. But theres no doubt in my mind that my family wont be nearly as receptive of him as they were with Anthony. For starters, theyre still hoping for a reconciliation. Secondly, my new boyfriend, David, would not traditionally check off every box on their list of preferences. Im concerned that theyll treat David like an outsider and compare him to Anthony. I figure I cant force them to like David, but what can I do to make sure they at least get along?

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A: The biggest factor, which I think you already know, is figuring out how to maintain your own sense of composure, self-assuredness, and serenity regardless of your parents response, since in the past youve made decisions about your romantic life in order to please them and to your own detriment. Youre already prepared to offer an introduction, and in fact, you can simply share with them a digested version of what youve told me here: Youve met someone who makes you very happy, his name is David, and youd like them to meet him. If at any point they seem inclined to bring up Anthony or to suggest you ought to reconsider, you can tell them youre not looking for input or advice. If theyre unable to resist putting their oar in, you can draw the conversation to a close and reaffirm your desire to introduce them when and if theyre interested in meeting him, rather than in having a family council about who you should be dating instead. Youre right that you cant (and shouldnt) try to force them to like David, but you can reasonably expect that their role in your relationship should be open-minded about meeting him and respecting your right to date someone youre interested in.

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Q. Lonely: I live in a city where I only have two friends, who were friends with each other before we met. Ive always had a hard time making friends as it is, but especially as an adult (it was so much easier when I was in school!) and during a pandemic. My two friends have a group of six or seven other friends that hang out together often. I dont know these people, but based on social media, it seems like wed have a lot in common! I have asked my friends, multiple times, to introduce me to their other friends, but they always say they will and then never do. Hinting, asking directlynothing has worked. I have no idea why they wont introduce me to anyone else they know in the area. I think Im pretty nice, I have a lot of interests, Im not exactly attractive but I dont smell or anything.

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I reallyreally!need some other friends, and this seems like the easiest way in, but they wont budge. At the same time, I dont want to push too hard, because I dont want to lose the friends I do have. What gives?

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A: Thats a good question! I wish I knew. Im afraid that at this point, since youve tried multiple times with both friends to no avail, that pushing for more details would unfortunately count as pushing too hard, so were simply going to have to chalk this one up to one of the unknowable secrets of the universe. Maybe your friends have every intention of getting around to it but cant muster up a sense of urgency, maybe theres a reason that has nothing to do with youwhatever the case, I think its clear that this is no longer likely to be the easiest way to build new friendships, and youre going to have to look elsewhere. Im sorry, because it must feel frustrating to wonder if theres something youve done to put your friends off, but I just dont think theres another way to convince them to open up after so many failed attempts. Trying to find new friends through shared interests does seem like the best next move here; whatever those interests may be, I hope you discover a ton of people in your city who share your enthusiasm for bouldering/Warhammer/Preston Sturges movies as much as you do, and who want to get coffee afterward and strike up a new friendship.

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Q. Sister in the dark about her parentage: I have a half-sister who has no idea that the man she calls her father is not her blood father. I only know my fathers side of the story, and when I tried to reach out to her mother, my request to hear her side went unanswered. It has been 10 years since my initial attempt, as I did not want to harass her or be pushy. But I feel that if I do not attempt to contact my half-sister now, if or when she does find out, she may feel as though we did not care. She turns 18 this year, and to my knowledge, she is still unaware even after her parents were supposed to tell her years ago. I would like to reach out to her, but I want her mom to be able to have the conversation with her in the hopes that their relationship is not completely ruined by her mothers omission. Should I reach out to my sister? If so, how should I let her know that she needs to ask her mom some very important questions?

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A: This is tricky! Ill confess I dont have a strong sense of your best move right off the bat, so Im hoping Ill be able to fumble toward a principle by thinking it through. I dont know what your fathers side of the story is, so I realize there are a number of possible outcomesI think theres value in weighing them all carefully before you make a decision. You say you want to make sure that this girls relationship with her mother is not completely ruined if she ever finds out about her conception, but Im not so sure thats a guaranteed outcome. She may very well continue to think of the man who raised her as her father, and may not find language like blood father especially compelling. Its possible that even if you were the one who broke the news to her, she might not be particularly interested in getting to know your family, or in thinking of your father as hers, too. That said, since its been 10 years and you know shell be of legal age soon, I think a follow-up message to her mother expressing a renewed interest in speaking to your half-sister (without asking for her express permission) might be best, as it gives her time to consider how shed like to handle her relationship with her daughter first.

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Beyond that, youll have to weigh the possible downsides of getting in touch against your own interests. How will you feel if you share the news with your half-sister and she doesnt respond well? If she gets angry or defensive, or doesnt reply at all? You seem to have handled a nonresponse from her mother 10 years ago very well, so I have confidence in your ability to weather any response now appropriately and without digging in your heels. Its just a question of acknowledging the sensitivity of your revelation, the possibility that it may complicate your relationship with your own parents as well as with this other group of people, and being prepared for a wide swath of possible reactions.

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Q. Work-appropriate leg hair: Is it appropriate to show my hairy legs at work? Im a queer cis woman who prefers not to shave my legs, but also prefers dresses and skirts to pants. This is fine in winter, when Im wearing tights anyway, but I dont know what to do during warmer months. Traditionally Ive just shaved during the summers, but I dont enjoy it and would prefer not to. I work in a professional but fairly liberal office, but I feel like its out of line not to shave. In the past, when Ive just had stubble, Ive gotten looks but no comments. Is body hair the reason men or people who wear masculine clothes dont wear shorts in the office? Im at a loss here.

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A: If your colleagues wear dresses/skirts without tights in the summer, then you should feel free to wear dresses/skirts without tights in the summer, as its clearly consistent with whatever dress code, either official or unspoken, governs your office. I dont want to wade too far out into the waters of speculation, and there are plenty of offices and industries where men do wear shorts in the summer, but shorts do, for whatever reason, have fewer formal/professional associations than skirts, some of which may be connected to gendered associations about body hair. I might imagine that men and people who wear masculine clothes have a variety of disparate experiences about office wear, so beyond that Im not sure how useful it might be to treat those groups as a single category. Alison Green of Ask a Manager offered a similar ruling back in 2016, so go forth with the blessing of not one but two advice columnists.

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Q. How do I get along with my adult sister? I have many siblings. I love all of them, but I have a very difficult time getting along with one of my older sisters. She is a grown woman in her mid-50s but lacks maturity. Her habits annoy me to no end. In emails and texts, she sounds like a 12-year-old girl. Her language, overuse of emojis, and lack of intelligence grate on my nerves. I have never mentioned this to her, and honestly, I feel guilty for having these feelings. I am an educated woman with a family of my own and just wish we could hold an intelligent conversation. I fear it will never be possible with her. We hardly speak anymore and we dont live near each other, but we will see each other at our family reunion this year. Not only does she lack decorum, but she is also very closed-minded and racist. To make matters worse, she has historically shown how much she feels that she and her children are better than everyone else, even at times being downright nasty about it. To be clear, her children, who are adults now, do not share these traits with her.

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How do I get along with her? Not just at the reunion, but going forward. I dread anytime I have to talk with her and I feel awful about it.

A: One of these things is not like the others, as the saying goes! I agree that youve been right to refrain from trying to manage your sisters emoji use or telling her I think you text like a child, but if shes very closed-minded and racist, I dont think your goal should be anything like trying to get along with her. You should object to her racism. Thats far more important than her annoying habits like including extra exclamation points or forgoing capital letters when she emails you. Dont try to get along with someone racist, even if that someone is your sister.

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Q. Dont care about pronouns: I identify as nonbinary. I dont particularly feel like a man or a woman. I know other nonbinary people who specifically want to be referred to as they/them. I dont care, honestly. Call me whatever pronouns you choose. A friend pointed out to me that people were going to likely use she/her, since thats how I present, but I never really thought about it. Ive never exactly conformed to either male or female gender norms. Im just me. And I understand that to some people, their gender identity and pronouns are important, but to me, its not particularly important.

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Is it OK to just know that Im nonbinary for myself and not really think or worry about how I present to others or their opinion about what nonbinary is or means?

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A: Sure!

Q. Re: Angry roommate: You are 100 percent in the wrong, you totally owe her an apology. She is a grown woman and its her own business. I have family boundary issues myself; if a roommate had done this to me, I would never have forgiven them. I think you know this deep down; your concern for her sounds fake. You need therapy to uncover why you have the instinct to sabotage others in such a mean way.

A: I wont go so far as to say that the letter writers concern must have been contrived; I think its entirely possible that they really were upset. But its crucial to acknowledge the difference between feeling concerned and what actually happened; it is not reasonable to seek out the relatives of a roommate one barely knows and doesnt normally receive updates from after said roommates spends two nights away from home without checking in. The letter writer would have certainly had grounds to say, upon her return, that theyd been worried and to ask to establish a policy of sending a brief check-in text when possible if either party plans on spending more than one night away from the apartment, but their roommate would then herself have grounds to say whether shes interested in such a policy herself.

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Q. Re: Angry roommate: No, sorry Prudie, but this is just basic women looking after another behavior (I say women because I do think it is something drilled into women who live together to always check in with roommates). The roommate left with only her purse, didnt return texts, and was gone for a few days. The letter writer didnt call the police; she just reached out to family to say she was worried. Id expect the same from anyone. How was the letter writer supposed to know the roommate was on an extended booty call? If she had been lying in a ditch somewhere and the letter writer had saved her life, would the roommate feel shed overreacted then?

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A: This is clearly not behavior that has been drilled into Kim, and I dont think any woman who seeks to live with another woman must therefore sign up to have her relatives called if she spends two nights with a date without clearing it with her roommate first. Kim may very well have other friends she does check in with, rather than her mostly distant roommate. While its perfectly fine for the letter writer to want to establish some sort of mutually-agreed-upon rule for overnight trips, it does not necessarily follow that it was appropriate to look up Kims relatives just because she was gone for roughly 36 hours (Friday afternoon to Sunday morning) without checking in. Kim has every right to set whatever limits/rules/restrictions she wants about taking trips or doing something by herself, and she does not have to automatically agree to be surveilled by her roommate simply because she is a woman.

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Discuss this column on our Facebook page!

Classic Prudie

Q. Not sleeping with the enemy: Im engaged to be married soon, and, while my fiance was away on holiday recently, I reconnected with a (heterosexual) friend of the opposite gender and ended up staying overnight unexpectedly. As his shared house does not have a communal living area and his bedroom is quite small, I ended up sleeping in his spacious double bed with him in it. It was strictly platonic, but my fiance and I are from a relatively conservative background and my fiance would not be OK with me seeing this friend again alone if I were to tell him. Is co-sleeping with someone in a context that most people might assume to have romantic undercurrents cheating?

Now available in your podcast player: the audiobook edition of Danny M. Laverys latest book, Something That May Shock and Discredit You. Get it from Slate.
Last Friday, White House press secretary Jen Psaki announced that the Biden administration has completed its interagency review on policy toward North Korea. She then read a statement that had been very carefully written but was largely meaningless to those who (for understandable reasons) havent been following the issue lately. So lets decode whats going on herewhats old about Bidens policy and whats new.

Heres what Psaki said:

Our goal remains the complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. With a clear understanding that the efforts of the past four administrations have not achieved this objective, our policy will not focus on achieving a grand bargain, nor will it rely on strategic patience. Our policy calls for a calibrated, practical approach that is open to and will explore diplomacy with [North Korea] and to make practical progress that increases the security of the United States, our allies, and deployed forces. We have and will continue to consult with the Republic of Korea, Japan, and other allies and partners at every step along the way.

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Heres what the five key phrases in this statement mean.

1. There has been debate among Korea watchers on whether U.S. policy should be the complete denuclearization of North Korea or the complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. (Biden and aides have uttered both versions on different occasions.) The former means that North Korea gets rid of its nuclear weapons and the facilities that make them. The latter requires that all countries in the region (including the U.S.) get rid of nuclear weapons that have the range to hit North Korea. Psaki significantly declared the latter to be the official goal. Though there are disputes on how far to take this meaning (North Korean diplomats have argued that it means the U.S. should completely disarm, since all of its nukes could hit their country), Biden is at least making an overture to Kim Jong-un here; hes saying that disarmament, to some degree, is a two-way street.

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2. By saying that the past four administrations have not achieved this objective, which includes that of President Bill Clinton, Biden is noting that Clintons Agreed Frameworkwhich froze North Koreas plutonium production, in exchange for U.S. economic assistanceis not a model for future accords. New negotiations would have to begin a bit more ambitiously.

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3. The remainder of that sentenceour policy will not focus on achieving a grand bargain, nor will it rely on strategic patiencerejects, specifically, the policies of the past two presidents, Donald Trump and Barack Obama. Early in his term, Obama reached out to Kim Jong-un, who was then a brand-new leader, got spat at, and decided simply to ignore him. He called it strategic patience, but really it was a decision to kick the problem down the road (because there was nothing else to do, nor was there any immediate danger at the moment), intensify sanctions, and hope that Kims regime might collapse in the meantime. Grand bargain was the policy set by Trumps second national security adviser, John Bolton, to settle all differences between the two countriesincluding nuclear disarmament and also the economic transformation of North Koreain one gigantic step (the big bang was another way of putting it). Bolton, whose real plan was to put the kibosh on all diplomacy as prelude to military confrontation, knew the plan would fail. And it did.

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4. The next sentence, outlining what Bidens policy will be, is packed with four important ideas. Our policy calls for a calibrated, practical approach (this refers to gradual, phased, step-by-step moves: North Korea disarms a little, the U.S. lifts sanctions a little) that is open to, and will explore, diplomacy (essentially: well restart talks if Kim wants to, but were not going to push for them) to make practical progress (reduction of tensions is good enough; we dont expect permanent peace) that increases the security of the United States, our allies, and deployed forces. This last bit requires more elaboration. Trump wanted North Korea to stop testing only missiles with the range to hit U.S. territory; he shrugged at short- and medium-range missiles, which could hit only South Korea, Japan, and (though he didnt note this explicitly, maybe he didnt understand the implications) U.S. military forces stationed in the Asia-Pacific. Biden is saying that he ultimately wants North Korea to get rid of all its nuclear-armed missiles, whatever their range.

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5. Psaki accentuated this point by ending with a message addressed to the other countries in the region and, by extension, the world: We have and will continue to consult with [South Korea], Japan, and other allies and partners at every step along the way. Trump staged his summit dramas with Kim without consulting those allies at alleven, at one point, promising Kim to suspend military exercises with South Korea, again, without discussing it with Seoul. Biden is saying that wont happen this time.

So are Washington and Pyongyang off to a new, hopeful beginning? Not quite.

First, after Boltons grand bargain ploy collapsed, Trumps emissary to North Korea talks, Stephen Biegun, with a team of experienced diplomats proposed step-by-step measures (what the Biden-Psaki statement calls a calibrated, practical approach), but his North Korean counterparts ignored them. Perhaps they did so believing that Trumpdesperate for a Nobel Peace Prize or perhaps just reelectionwould come back for a third summit and give away the store. It wasnt an unreasonable hope. Maybe Kims foreign ministry will recognize Biden as a more conventional (read: less gullible) American president, and so might take the offer more seriously, as the only gambit available. Or maybe not.

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Second, the North Koreans have never itemized just how much nuclear material they possess or where they manufacture or test their weapons. Biden is unlikely to view a nuclear arms reduction as serious unless he knows how much of a reduction it ishow much material Kim was making (or how many weapons he had) beforeand how much material hes making (or how many weapons he has) after the reduction. This is an absolute prerequisite to further progress.

Finally, complete denuclearizationwhether of North Korea or of the Korean Peninsulais a pipe dream. Nuclear weapons are the only leverage that Kim possesses; without them, nobody would pay him the slightest bit of attention, except perhaps to overthrow his regime. Probably no American package of economic aid or security guarantees is gargantuan enough to make him surrender his nukes entirely. And if Kim insists that denuclearization means the U.S. must abandon all of its nukes that have the range to hit North Koreawhether theyre based on submarines, dropped from bomber aircraft, or launched from missile silos back in Americahes dreaming too.

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So its good that Biden and his team are making an effort to resume diplomacy with North Korea. Its also good that theyre fairly clearsighted about whats possible over the next few years. Already the North Korean government has denounced Biden for his continuation of a hostile policy toward Pyongyangstandard stuff for next-day commentary. Then again, North Koreas economy is hurting, especially in amid the waves of pandemic; there are reports (though there have been many similar reports in the past) that his regime might be teetering. If hes looking for an opening to calm, serious relations with the United States, he has a serious partner in Biden. Well see.
In a bit of welcome news for Americans who are all vaxxed up with nowhere to go, the European Union is set to reopen its borders to vaccinated tourists and visitors from other low infection-rate countries. Under the new plan, which still needs approval from the blocs 27 member states, restrictions on vaccinated travelers could be lifted by June 1, a welcome boost for European economies heavily dependent on the tourism economy. The new rules on travel would bring to a close an extended, year-long ban on all but essential travel to Europe, even as the many of the blocs countries are still in various forms of lockdown as they struggle to beat back a third wave of infections.

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The European Commission will put the new plan to member state governments this week in the hopes of hammering out an agreement that could go into effect by the end of the month. The proposed rules would require a tourist to have received the final dose of an approved vaccine at least 14 days before arriving on the continent. The approved vaccines are the ones widely being used in the U.S. and elsewhereincluding Pfizer, Moderna, Johnson & Johnson, and AstraZenecabut Russias Sputnik and Chinas leading Sinopharm and Sinovac vaccines are not on the approved list. The aim is to have proof of vaccination replace testing and quarantine requirements, though each country will have some discretion over additional safety measures.

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In addition, visitors from countries with a good epidemiological situation will also be allowed to enter the E.U. Currently, that amounts to a small group of just 7 countries, but the new proposal is set to raise the allowable infection rate from rate from 25 to 100 per 100,000 people.
Over the past week, Caitlyn Jenners announcement that she plans to run for governor of California has been treated mostly as a joke. For political reporters like Guy Marzorati, though, this is serious stuff. He says Jenner may not be the typical candidate, but this gubernatorial race? Its not the typical election. Its a recalla referendum on the current governor, Gavin Newsom.

And facing an election challenge from a reality TV star is just the next step in a process Guy Marzorati, who is a reporter and producer on KQEDs politics and government desk, has been tracking for months. On Mondays episode of What Next, we spoke to Marzorati about how we got here and why California is about to launch a surprise election for governor. Our conversation has been edited and condensed for clarity.

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Mary Harris: So lets go back and talk about how this recall effort succeeded, or at least got to the point where theres going to be an election. We dont really know whats going to happen there, of course. Was it driven by the pandemic in some way or something else?

Guy Marzorati: The actual petition itself was filed before COVID-19 hit California. The recall was launched in February of 2020. If you read the recall petition, theres no mention of anything coronavirus-related. Its really just a litany of grievances against Newsom, his liberal governance on the death penalty, criminal justice, immigration. And for months, this recall petition lagged along, really didnt look like it had any chance of qualifying. And it wasnt until it got this extension from a superior court judge giving the campaign four extra months to collect signatures that it really took off.

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When did it start to look like this recall effort actually had a chance?

Im pretty sure were going to be hearing about this day in California history books in years to come: Nov. 6. Newsom, that evening, goes out to dinner at this fancy restaurant in Napa Valley, the French Laundry. It doesnt come out for a couple of weeks, but hes photographed in a group sitting maskless. Hes discouraging Californians of different households from getting together, and thats exactly what hes doing.

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Its just a bad look.

Yeah, it was a bad look. He wasnt at a family restaurant or an In-N-Out. Hes at this fancy Napa Valley restaurant. On that same day, Nov. 6 is when a judge gave the recall campaign a four-month extension to keep collecting signatures, saying, basically, its been hard to reach people during the pandemic and get voter signatures. Those two events, more than anything, drove this to the ballot

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Has the French Laundry become a joke in California? Like I noticed that KABC, the radio station, has a little radio show called Friday Night at the French Laundry.

Yeah, theres no other symbol like the French Laundry. Its become associated with the recall campaign and the campaign to get Newsom out of office. It was funny: Just the other day, my politics desk colleagues and I drove up to the French Laundry, and we witnessed some recall tourism going on. It does play into what critics of Newsom have long thought: Hes this wealthy, entitled San Franciscan. Its interesting because he does have a dueling image of his background. He was raised by a single mom who is far from wealthy. He started his own business. But he also has this other part of his history where he grew up around the elite Bay Area families. He made his money as a wine merchant. Hes immersed in San Francisco political circles. Its that latter image that this French Laundry dinner really reinforced for critics of is.

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Democrats in California and folks who work with Newsom have made an effort to paint the people behind this recall effort as aligned with the people who rioted in the Capitol on Jan. 6. Is that fair? Like, who are the people who are behind this effort?

The petition was originally pushed by Orrin Heatlie, who is a former sheriffs deputy from the northern part of the state. And early on in the campaign, a lot of the Facebook groups that he was trying to work with to spread the word about the recall did include some of these super far-right groups, extremist groups.

If anything, it speaks to the ragtag band of folks who put this together. It was really a grassroots effort. These werent establishment Republicans. It was only in late 2020, as this gained momentum, that the original group turned to more traditional Republican operatives in the state for help. I didnt cover the recall folks at the very beginning of their effort. I dont even think it registered. It really wasnt until later in the year when this started gaining traction, we started seeing that the signature tallies pile up, that it was like, Wow, this really does have some legs.

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Now, the other part of what you ask, which is about whether this is an illegitimate way to seize power is this a power grab or some way of stealing the governorship? Voters have not responded as well to that. Theres polling where even people who say they oppose the recall will say this is legitimate. This is a legitimate process that exists in California, thats been with us since 1911. This is a way for people to voice their displeasure at the governor. And early messaging from the Democratic Party here, saying, Theyre stealing the governorship was widely rebuked. So its a fine line between those two messages that I think were going to hear from the Newsom campaign.

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Earlier this year, we did a show about the possibility that Gavin Newsom might be facing a recall. And at the time, the reporter we talked to, she seemed kind of amazed at the breadth of people who were angry at the governor. Can you take us back then?

Its really within that four-month window that things absolutely snowballed for Newsom. Cases here spiked to an incredible level. Even as they declined, there was really no plan to reopen schools, which ultimately became a rallying cry against Newsom. You had businesses that had temporarily reopened during the early fall having to close their doors once again around the holidays. Add on top of that separate scandals that the governor was dealing with at the unemployment development department, where there was a lot of fraud going on. It all came together. And so by early this year, there was just more concentrated anger against Newsom than there really ever had been. The question is how far beyond the concentrated anger does this frustration go?

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Youve said you think of this recall effort as a bit of a time capsule. The 1.6 million people who signed on might not be as keen to see Newsom gone now as they were a few months back. Thats because so many signatures rolled in as COVID peaked in California. People were angry, and they were expressing themselves as best they could. But the recall pressure has actually changed the way Newsom governed, too, right?

I dont think Newsome governed with the sense of urgency until this recall was really staring him down. Schools is the perfect example of that. Last summer, Newsom and the Legislature basically allowed distance learning to continue for this next school year. And he seemed in no rush, even in September, October, when cases were incredibly low in much of California, to get kids back in the classroom. It was totally left to local districts. And in some large urban districts that resulted in gridlock.

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Newsom just stood away from it. There wasnt a statewide plan. It wasnt until the pressure of the recall happened that he really changed his tune on the school reopenings. And in January, he came out with a plan to reopen schools. The Legislature ultimately sent billions of dollars to local school districts to try to convince them to reopen.

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Thats interesting. You think it was because of the recall effort?

Absolutely. The political pressure on Newsomwhether its schools or whether its relaxation of some business restrictionsmade him more responsive to concerns that he was hearing from the electorate. There was a stretch there in September, October, when cases had gone down, and California was being praised for its management of the pandemic, where there didnt seem to be such urgency to bring kids back or bring businesses back. It felt like California was in a good place. Newsom had gained a lot of approval from the way he was handling things. There was no real need to change course. And I think this pressure that came from the recall campaign did influence how Newsom governed.

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Youre talking about how Newsom kind of became the face of the coronavirus in California, and what youre really talking about is the downside of that, which is when you put yourself out there as the guy whos addressing this crisis, then you have to manage all the little details. Otherwise, youre the guy whos going to be held responsible

Youve seen that in other states, too. I think its similar to Gov. Andrew Cuomo in New York, who also was on television every day giving briefings. And in the early days, that was really reassuring for a lot of voters what they were hearing from Newsom. He really took control of the states response. The Legislature handed him his executive authority and left the capitol.

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They literally left the capitol?

They literally left. And during that time, when the Legislature was transitioning to operating remotely, Newsom really was the entire face of state government. And as you point out, hes left holding the bag when things arent going well. So in the summer, when we did start to see a spike in cases and then obviously the huge spike that we saw this last winter, he was the face of not only that but also school response, response for small businesses, the issues with the unemployment in the state.

Our episode a couple of months back on Newsom was called Why Is Everyone Mad at Gavin Newsom? But is everyone still mad at Gavin Newsom now?

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No, I dont think everyone is still mad. You have to look at how the coronaviruses played out in the state. We now have the lowest positivity rate in the country. State rates have gone really far down. The vaccination effort has really ramped up in the state. Ultimately, and this will play a huge role in the recall, people seem to identify how they feel about Newsom on a particular issue along a Democratic-Republican split. So if you look at some of the polling, the percentage of folks in California who disapprove of how Newsom handled schools and is handling school reopenings is around 40 percent. The percentage who disapprove of how hes handling businesses is around 40 percent. The percentage who would support a recall is around 40 percent. And by the way, the percentage of voters who voted against Newsom in 2018 is around 40 percent.

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Its like the more things change the more things stay the same.

Its all contained around that percentage. People might have certain frustrations. But ultimately the public polling thats been done finds that anger at Newsom on any issue is really tied in line with support for the recall. And its really the percentage we see for any GOP-led effort here in the state.

If people are familiar with Californias recall process at all, theyll remember the last time a governor was recalled. Thats Gray Davis, and Arnold Schwarzenegger replaced him. Can we talk about what might be the same or different this time around?

A huge difference is that really did not fall along partisan lines. Gray Davis was largely very unpopular in the state among certainly Republicans but also Democrats. And Arnold Schwarzenegger, who, while hes a Republican, had his own brand, was running as a singular celebrity. It divorced the whole recall process from Democrat vs. Republican. It really became about Gray Davis, his unpopularity, and then Schwarzenegger and his popularity. And I dont think so far youve seen that this time around. There hasnt been that kind of celebrity like Schwarzenegger who has gotten into the race. And largely, as I mentioned, voter views around Newsom are really partisan at this point.

That said, Newsom would be the first to admit this: Its a dangerous place to be, right? As a politician, youre on the ballot. Suddenly theres an inherent risk in anything you do. Youre one bad dinner reservation away from being back in the soup and having voters be angry at you. So for him, Newsom sees this certainly as like a danger. Hes on the ballot. Anything could happen between now and the fall. But so far, you havent seen it turn into the same dynamics that we saw in 2003.

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DELHI, IndiaAnish left his 10-day-old daughter with his mother while he waited at a crematorium with his wifes body. He and Jyoti had stuck together through all the challenges of pregnancy during the pandemic and had been looking forward to raising a family. Eight days after Jyoti gave birth to our baby girl, she started feeling breathless. Initially we thought that this must be just a postpartum issue but within no time her oxygen levels dropped from 80 to 40 on the pulse oximeter, explained Anish.

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As she gasped for breath, Anish managed to get her admitted to a private hospital in southwest Delhi and provide oxygen support but soon that too wasnt enough. Even with support, the oxygen saturation in her body plummeted to 30. She needed an ICU bed. We called everywhere, pleaded with everyone, but it wasnt available, he said.

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Ten days after giving birth to a healthy baby, Jyoti, a 32-year-old mother, died of COVID.

The second wave of COVID-19 in India has taken the parents of many children like Jyotis infant daughter. Some find themselves in the care of relatives and guardians, others remain alone at hospital emergency rooms and homes not knowing what to do with their parents bodies. Some have lost one parent, while others have lost both. Concrete data is unavailable, but child protection authorities say that distress calls about children whose mothers and fathers died of COVID have significantly increased.

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The rise in COVID-19 cases in India over the past two months has been ferocious. On Feb. 28, the country recorded 15,510 new cases in 24 hours. Four weeks later, that number had risen almost fivefold to 72,330. On Saturday, India became the first country in the world to record 400,000 new COVID cases in one day.

The unprecedented speed and magnitude of new infections have paralyzed the health system: Hospitals are at capacity, and medical oxygen in short supply. Reports of people of all ages dying in the streets because they cannot gain hospital admission abound. In contrast to earlier COVID waves around the world, Indias latest surge appears to be hitting younger adults hard. Sixty-five percent of COVID-19 patients in Delhi are below the age of 45 years, said Arvind Kejriwal, Delhis chief minister, on April 11. Since this is an age group that includes many young parents, the consequences are profound. Its also a cohort that was not permitted to get vaccinated until recently because of the Modi governments policies. With infections skyrocketing, Kejriwal urged the central government to open up vaccinations to everyone irrespective of age.

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On April 24, at around 3 a.m., the helpline number of the Delhi Commission for Protection of Child Rights received an SOS call.

The parents of two siblings, aged 15 and 16 years old, had died within a day of each other. The two had sat with the bodies not knowing what to do. We arranged for a cremation space at the Seemapuri cremation ground and ambulance services, said Anurag Kundu, chairperson of DCPCR. We also provided medical assistance for both the children. At these times all the child needs is to be held and consoled.

Delhi is a city under siege. Its hospitals are overwhelmed, and life restricted by a 24-hour curfew. Delivering basic yet critical services like counseling and support for bereaved children has become a challenge. We are doing the best we can on the phone, but we need to have services on the ground, said Bharti Ali, executive director of HAQ: Centre for Child Rights, a Delhi-based nongovernmental organization. We have been demanding that the government make childline services an emergency service, so [social workers] can at least commute freely during the lockdown and reach out to children who need help.

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Across the country, stigmatization and fear have contributed to this tragedy. On April 26, an 18-month-old infant was found starving as he lay next to his mothers body. She had died two days before in her house in a small town in Maharashtra, the state with the highest number of cases in India. With the father away, the mother was by herself. Police say that neighbors didnt want to check on the family fearing COVID. Ultimately, the landlord called the police concerned about the stench and the baby was saved.

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Unfortunately, children being orphaned is not a new phenomenon, but we see that it has been incredibly accelerated by the sheer force of this pandemic, said Kundu from DCPCR. We have received six to seven SOS calls in just three to four days. He thinks the cases of children being orphaned are at least 10 times higher than reported. Thats just for Delhi. The nationwide count will be much more.

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Social media posts and WhatsApp volunteer groups have been circulating messages seeking urgent help for children affected by COVID. These include pleas to adopt those whose parents have died.

According to Indias Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, a child orphaned due to loss of both parents can be placed in foster care with extended family or in group foster care. The child can also be put up for adoption or sent to child care institutions run by both the government and NGOs until they are 18 years old.

If relatives decide to take care of the child, a background check is done with the assistance of the Child Welfare Committee. I am not a proponent of institutional care, said Kundu. He added that for reported cases in Delhi, children orphaned by COVID are oftenalthough not alwayscared for by their relatives.

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Last week, one 14-year-old boy in Delhi who lost both his parents to COVID-19 called the DCPCR helpline. His relatives refused to adopt him and offered to only support him with meals. Child authorities had to send him to institutional care.

Foster care, adoption, or even institutional care can be difficult experiences, especially for orphaned girls. With girl children, exploitation and abuse is a big concern, said Ali. In both situations of staying with relatives or institutional care, children could be psychologically silenced and kept away from reporting the abuse and violence inflicted on them.

Nearly 40 percent of the countrys child care institutions do not have adequate measures in place to prevent physical or sexual abuse of children, according to a 2020 national audit of shelter homes in India, commissioned by the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights.

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The rise in demand for these services, as well as budget cuts, is likely to make the challenges confronting the institutional care system worse. During this second wave, there is very little acceptance from the government about this crisis, said Ali. The government will have to increase its investment in child protection services, which is currently only at 0.03 percent of the total Union Budget and is consistently going down.

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My ammi [mother] will die if I dont get her oxygen now. She only has another hour of oxygen supply left and the clinic says they have no more, 15-year-old Shafiq (not his real name) told me over the phone. For more than a week he had been singlehandedly taking care of both his parents who were COVID positive.

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Few people in India have health insurance. Coming from a lower-middle-class family, Shafiq doesnt have money to pay for medical expenses. For the first few days he cared for them at home in northeast Delhi. Later, with the help of an NGO, he managed to find two beds for them in a small clinic in his neighborhood.

After they were admitted in the clinic, they started to feel better. My abba [father] is recovering well, but my ammis health is getting worse, said Shafiq, sounding desperate to help his mother.

While there are cases of COVID-positive parents leaving children behind across all different socioeconomic backgrounds, more economically vulnerable children often bear the added responsibility of becoming the caregiver. Arranging for medical help for their parents by themselves at a time when there is an overwhelming shortage of oxygen cylinders, ambulance services, and hospital beds seems impossible for these children. Many also bear the guilt of not being able to save their parents.

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What will be the long-term impact on the lives of these children is impossible to determine at this stage. What is known is that in many cases, their loss could have been prevented, had it not been for Indias overwhelmed health system.

The fatality rate we are seeing now is not a property determined by the lethality of the virus; it is due to a collapsed health system, said Bhramar Mukherjee, an epidemiologist. Each number is not a mere statistic, but the face of a loved one. The system can fail to report many deaths, but families cannot.

At an apartment in Delhi, Anish holds onto his baby and breaks down: My child has been orphaned. She will never know her mother. I will do everything I can for her, but I cant replace a mother.

Only a few miles away from Anish, Shafiq frantically makes another plea: Please, please send my ammi an ambulance now or she will die. Can you help?

To understand how Indias COVID response led to the current crisis, listen to this recent episode of What Next:
On Monday morning, a political action committee for Donald Trumpa film extra who served as president of the United States from 2017 to 2021released a statement saying that The Fraudulent Presidential Election of 2020 will be, from this day forth, known as THE BIG LIE! The rebranding edict was directed to no one in particular. But among the prominent politicians who chose to respond to it was Wyoming Rep. Liz Cheney, the third-ranking member and chair of the House Republican conference, the most Trumpy bloc of elected officials in Washington.

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The 2020 presidential election was not stolen. Anyone who claims it was is spreading THE BIG LIE, turning their back on the rule of law, and poisoning our democratic system.  Liz Cheney (@Liz_Cheney) May 3, 2021

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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.

To the naked eye, Cheneys behavior since she cast her vote for Trumps second impeachment in response to his supporters Jan. 6 assault on the Capitol would suggest that shes eager to sacrifice her political career on the altar of principle. But since no politician thinks like that, whats going on here?

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Cheneys Jan. 12 statement in support of impeaching the president was uncompromising. The President of the United States summoned this mob, assembled the mob, and lit the flame of this attack. Everything that followed was his doing, she said. There has never been a greater betrayal by a President of the United States of his office and his oath to the Constitution. The overwhelming majority of her conference sided with Trump instead, but when they tried to strip Cheney of her leadership job in retribution, she saved her position by working the phones, lining up the votes, and earning the support of House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy a few weeks later.

She wouldnt apologize for her impeachment vote, and she still hasnt. If anything, shes been more vocal, since Trumps departure, about the need for the party to distance itself from him.

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Its made for some awkward moments. At a House GOP press conference in February, a reporter asked McCarthy whether Trump should speak at the annual Conservative Political Action Conference. McCarthy said yes. Cheney had a different answer. Thats up to CPAC, she said. Ive been clear on my views about President Trump. I dont believe that he should be playing a role in the future of the party or the country. House Minority Whip Steve Scalise, standing next to her, shook his head, and McCarthy abruptly ended the press conference on that high note.

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The House GOP retreat in Orlando, Florida, last week was far from the happiest place on earth. Cheney, when asked about 2024 presidential candidates, said that some of our candidates who led the charge, particularly the senators who led the unconstitutional charge, not to certify the election, you know, in my view thats disqualifying. She also emphasized the need for a commission focused narrowly on investigating the Jan. 6 riot, which McCarthy opposes.

If we minimize what happened on Jan. 6 and if we appease it, she said, then we will be in a situation where every election cycle, you could potentially have another constitutional crisis.

McCarthy, ever aware that Trump is dangling a sword over him, already stuck his neck out to protect Cheney once. He stopped doing so in Orlando, refusing to say whether Cheney should remain in GOP leadership and suggesting that those not focused on policy at the retreat were not being productive.

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After returning to Washington for President Joe Bidens address to Congress, Cheney greeted the president with a fist bump and then joyously told her many haters, including Donald Trump Jr., to pound sand.

Cheneys continued outspokenness and fraternization with the enemy has reached the level where rank-and-file members are fielding angry questions about her from their constituents back home, as Punchbowl News reported. Thats the point at which hand-wavey concerns about a lack of messaging unity within party leadership (no one cares) transform into a problem members feel they need to address. The tide is turning against Cheney within the conference, other leaders are done with her, and members are starting to make public predictions about how long shell last. When the House returns to session next week, the House GOPs weekly meeting should be a lively one.

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She may lose her leadership post, she may not. She is confident, though, that she will survive a primary in 2022 and win reelection.

To the extent that her consistent poking of the bear can align with her political self-interest, shes evidently made the calculation that theres no use in going halfway anti-Trump. Cheney didnt just begin speaking her mind against the former president on Jan. 6. House conservatives were furious at her last summer for breaking from the Trump line. You dont need much of a heretical record at all to be tagged as the anti-Trump candidate in a competitive Republican primary, and she had already accrued more than enough demerits to earn the title before she voted for impeachment. Rather than hedge now and launch a transparently false Im the real Trump candidate campaign that would only emphasize how she isnt, she can emphasize how she backs down to no one and always fights! A wrong record on Trump can put her in primary danger, but perhaps commitment to a vibe can get her out of it.

That, and a lot of money. Though she may not be popular among the Republican base, the remnants of the Resistance and fellow anti-Trump Republicans will always make sure that the rare Republican who stood up to Trump isnt lacking in funds.
This piece originally appeared in the Conversation.

For most of the past year, the Pacific Islands have been remarkably isolated from the devastating effects of the COVID crisis. By walling themselves off early from the outside world, most Pacific nations remain completely COVID free.

Historians will look back on this as a remarkable achievement by Pacific nations, and a great credit to the swift actions taken by their leaders. While isolation has proven itself to be an effective preventative strategy, it is not a perfect one. Border closures have taken an severe toll on these nations fledgling economies.

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And even the most robust border and quarantine control systems can break down. In the Pacific, the cracks are now starting to show.

The most obvious case is in Papua New Guinea, where caseloads started surging exponentially two months ago.

With a porous land border with Indonesia and weak quarantine controls, its remarkable the virus did not get out of control sooner. However, it is now running unchecked in the capital, Port Moresby, and has spread to every province in the country.

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The health system came very close to complete breakdown in March, and despite hopeful signs of case numbers stabilizing in the capital (now at a much higher level), the country remains in dire need of further assistance.

PNG records three new COVID-19 deaths on Sunday April 25  death toll at 105: Papua New Guinea has recorded three new COVID-19 deaths in the last 24 hours ending 12 midday on Sunday April 25, increasing the total number of deaths to 105. The deaths were https://t.co/GLPMVl3hYW  PNG Facts (@pngfacts) April 26, 2021

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Fiji was the most successful nation in the region in containing community transmission a year ago. It, too, is now showing cracks in the armor. In a familiar story, a soldier working at a quarantine facility caught the virus from a traveler who had recently returned from India. Now identified as the new and extremely infectious Indian strain, it has quickly spread.

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Much of the countrys main island of Viti Levu is in lockdown as contact tracing is conducted. While Fiji is the most capable country in the region to handle an outbreak, it also comes at a terrible time for the tourism-dependent nation, which is desperate to reopen to the Australian and New Zealand markets.

Over in Vanuatu, the dead body of a Filipino sailor from a visiting cargo vessel that washed ashore on April 11 tested positive for the virus. The vessel is now in Australian waters, with all but one of the 12 sailors on board testing positive for COVID-19.

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The solution to the Pacifics imperfect isolation strategy is the same as Australiasvaccines.

Given the enormous global demand for vaccines, and the small size and limited bargaining power of Pacific Island nations, there has been a very real threat they would be left at the back of the queue in the vaccine scramble.

However, assertive work by donor nations like Australia and New Zealand, combined with access to the World Health Organization-led global COVAX facility, has so far meant Pacific nations are not being left out in the cold.

The North Pacific nations of Federated States of Micronesia, Marshall Islands, and Palau are well on their way to being fully vaccinated courtesy of the United States Operation Warp Speed program.

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Initial batches of between 4,800-132,000 doses of AstraZeneca vaccines have also been delivered to Fiji, Nauru, PNG, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, and Tuvalu via the COVAX initiative.

Australia sent an emergency batch of 8,000 vaccine doses to PNG in March and is now sending 10,000 locally produced AstraZeneca doses to the region each week. This number is likely to climb as production ramps up and the appetite for AstraZeneca wanes at home.

China is also poised to do its part, offering 200,000 Sinopharm vaccines to PNG and 50,000 to Solomon Islands.

Both PNG and the Solomon Islands are adamant that they will not roll out the vaccine until it receives approval by the WHO, but the presence of Chinese vaccines ups the stakes for the vaccine diplomacy battle now underway in the Pacific.

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Just two months ago, the worry for most Pacific nations was getting hold of vaccines.

For many, the challenge has now quickly morphed to a larger, and much more challenging, questionhow to roll them out.

There are enormous challenges involved with an effective rollout campaign in many countries, especially those with many islands like Kiribati or Solomon Islands or with large populations in remote communities spread across mountains and islands, like PNG.

Pacific leaders and health professionals also face widespread misinformation about vaccines, cultural stigma (many Pacific nations have never run an adult vaccination campaign), and logistical challenges related to cold chain storage and their already-stretched health systems.

Illustrating this point, of the 8,000 doses Australia provided to PNG more than a month ago, only 2,900 have been administered. While some nations, like Fiji, have quickly run through their allotted COVAX vaccines, others, such as PNG, run the risk of vaccines expiring before they get into peoples arms.

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It will take a much more significant and coordinated effort from Pacific nations, and all of their donor counterparts, to effectively vaccinate the region.

A massive logistics campaign tailored to the needs of each nation must now get underway. Nongovernmental organizations, churches, and the private sector should all be expected to do their part. Alongside this, the Pacific nations need smart and widespread information campaigns to promote the efficacy and importance of the vaccines and help overcome misinformation and stigma.

If more concerted effort is not applied to getting needles into Pacific Islanders arms, then at best these countries will be left behind as other economies open up to one another, and at worst quarantine systems will fail and the virus itself will overwhelm their vulnerable systems.

The Pacific region has done extremely well in combating the COVID crisis to date.

Lets not stop now.

Future Tense is a partnership of Slate, New America, and Arizona State University that examines emerging technologies, public policy, and society.
In January, at the 2021 Executive Board session of the World Health Organization, Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus described the hoarding of COVID-19 vaccines by wealthy countries as a catastrophic moral failure. This hoarding has continued, and by mid-March 14 percent of the worlds population had access to more than half its vaccines. Its a decision that could devastate everyone. Modelling suggests that this trend of wealthy countries stockpiling COVID-19 vaccines will result in nearly twice as many deaths as would occur if vaccines were shared equally across the globe, with an economic cost running into the trillions of dollars. Failure to vaccinate globally may also give time for new variants to undermine existing vaccinations, and draw out the pandemic. Indeed, we are seeing the human cost of inequitable access to medical countermeasures during this pandemic in India as you read this.

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The decision of whom to vaccinate globally has pitted so-called vaccine nationalists, who defend the right of nations to vaccinate their own people first by any means, against globalists who want more equitable approaches to vaccine allocationapproaches in which access to the vaccine is on the basis of need, rather than on the ability to pay. Some have tried to square this argumentative circle by suggesting that while the United States and other developed nations have a right or obligation to protect themselves first, they ought to give up vaccines they dont need, or that they arent using. That is, once we have an excess of actual vaccines, and not just an excess of ordered vaccines. This is, in essence, what the Biden administration recently announced with its commitment to donate up to 60 million doses of excess AstraZeneca vaccine, which the U.S. had been stockpiling in anticipation of the vaccine being approved for use by the FDA. (It now seems unlikely that the U.S. will need AstraZeneca to vaccinate everybody.) The Biden administrations about-face has only come after a deluge of political pressure, from a stance of outright protectionism to something softerif arguably inadequate to the task to rolling back the COVID-19 onslaught abroad.

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But not softening is not enough. Even this approach simply shifts the goalposts on our moral failing, by failing to recognize the most important thing to developed and developing countries alike: ending this pandemic.

The moral and practical failing of vaccine nationalism, even partial nationalism, is a rare moment where there shouldnt be disagreement between people with different values. If what you care about is lives saved, as public health experts typically claim they do, then theres no question that equitable global distribution of COVID-19 vaccines should be our default. Millions of lives and the trajectory of the pandemic itself hang in the balance and refusing to distribute vaccines globally only worsens that. Experts can laud the science behind the vaccines all they want, but at the end of the day thats lauding the wrong thing. Vaccines dont save lives, vaccination does.

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The global nature of the vaccine also requires us to pursue global vaccine equity. These vaccines werent just made in America by American scientists (whatever that means) and therefore the American people get first claim. The sequences that gave the U.S. the Moderna vaccine relied on the work of Chinese scientists working tirelessly in the earliest stages of the pandemic. The AstraZeneca vaccine was designed in collaboration with Oxford University, but tested in Brazil and South Africa as well as the United Kingdom. The raw materials for the vaccine are imported from all over the globe. If what you care about is vaccine equity as a good in and of itself, as many increasingly do, the contours of the pandemic require us to treat other nations fairly.

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But lets say you dont care about any of that. Everyone still has a reason to prefer vaccine globalismeven the nationalists. Even if all you care about are your citizens interests, or national self-interest, or even just your own interest, the overriding concern should be ending this pandemic. An entire nation of vaccinated people isnt safe from the effects of this pandemic. Global trade and travel are still disrupted; and variants are still going to nibble away at a nations immunity to COVID-19. The costs of maintaining a defensive posture will drag out. Ask the nations who have been largely COVID-19 free, like Australia or New Zealand, what it costs to protect a country while the rest of the world languishes.

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The moral case against vaccine nationalism is strong. But we shouldnt just give poorer nations our sparesthats merely another, different failing. We need to engage proactively in a successful global vaccination campaign, in a system that pursues true equitable access.

First, real time sharing should be the order of the day, which means abandoning any remaining Advance Purchase Agreements. APAs are legally binding contracts in which a government commits to purchasing a predetermined number of doses from a manufacturer of a potential vaccine, thereby securing priority access ahead of other nations. It is these agreements that have placed wealthy governments, such as ours, in the position they are in. Vaccines should be supplied to nations on the basis of robust fair allocation frameworks as and when those vaccines are manufactured. Nations should not be forced into a queue such that delays in access to vaccines based on their bargaining power. No one should be able to buy their place at the head of the queue.

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Second, frameworks for the fair allocation of resources should seek to adopt intentionally global standards. That is, while vaccines must ultimately be managed locally once supplies are delivered, high-level distribution principles should not assume national priority over vaccines, even implicitly. Frameworks and guidance should explicitly note that pandemic vaccine distribution must account for global needs. Failing to do this makes designers of those allocation frameworks complicit in establishing presumptive vaccine nationalism from which we must now escape.

This would be a new frontier in global health policy. It is possible that individual nations could begin unilaterally assisting other nations with their vaccination needs. But we suspect it will require the involvement of member states of the WHO or a similar global governing body to form a consensus on the need for global end to COVID-19, in a form to the Global Commission for the Certification of Smallpox Eradication, which supervised the coordinated elimination of that disease in the 20th century. We dont underestimate the immense political effort this would require, but the moral and public health costs are too high to sit on our hands.

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Finally, global sharing of vaccines should not be conditioned on infrastructural capacities: Leading bioethicists in Science recently claimed, Allocating vaccine doses to countries lacking the infrastructure to administer them would unjustifiably waste a lifesaving resource. Yet there is no reason why we should prefer to provide vaccines to developed countries with infrastructure in place, over simply making sure those capacities exist as part of the COVID-19 response. If we have an obligation to end this pandemic, then we have an obligation to ensure that the relevant infrastructure exists to make that happen. It doesnt serve U.S. national interest, much less the demands of justice, to let other countries languish.

We can beat COVID-19. But we need to be smart, proactive, and global to do it. Anything less is marking time for future moral failings.

Future Tense is a partnership of Slate, New America, and Arizona State University that examines emerging technologies, public policy, and society.
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While it may not be a good perception to have an office of people that arent working full time, I also dont think its a good perception, visual, to have an office thats closed, that the lights are out, that nobody knows when its open either, Gillespie said at the hearing. I think its important for our residents of Illinois to start to establish trust in their legislature if they know that this is something were taking this seriously.
Sporhase vs. Nebraska Ex Rel. Douglas, a case from the U.S. Supreme Court that originated in Nebraska affects Nebraska and all other states. Sporhase, who owned adjoining land in both Nebraska and Colorado, was denied a well permit in Colorado. He drilled a well in Nebraska and pumped water across the border to Colorado to irrigate his crops. Nebraska had a statute that required a permit to export ground water into another state. In order to get the permit, there had to be reciprocity between the states. Colorado did not have reciprocity and did not allow its groundwater to be exported to another state. The issue was whether groundwater was subject to the interstate commerce clause of the U.S. constitution, which authorizes Congress to regulate the movement of goods across state lines (interstate commerce). The court ruled that ground water was an article of commerce, regardless of whether groundwater could be marketed in Nebraska or not. (The right to use groundwater now is marketed, following the passage of Legislative Bill 962 in 2004, which put an end to expansion of groundwater use in many parts of the state.)
Working at the Torrington pool also helped John meet a lot of people and build connections within the community. She loves that in a small town like Torrington, people always know someone by association and the tight-knit circle the community provides.

Its been so fun to meet the new people in our community that I wouldve never met and treating the community that I know and know from my past, John said. Ive enjoyed getting to see people in a different perspective and taking care of them and really learning how to be in my career.

Another extra step John takes to make sure her business is thriving and her patients are happy, is collaborating with other medical professionals and asking for help when she needs it. She continuously speaks to people in her field and outside of her field to ensure shes doing all she can to be successful and help everyone that comes into her office.

I love collaborating with other professionals and co-managing, John said. I think patient centered care is the most important and the way we reach that is by everyone working together.
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Allen Starette, operator of the Starette Typewriter and Adding Machine Service Company, announced today that his place of business had been moved from its former location on East Broad Street to 108 West Front street in the Vance Hotel building. (5/7)

Georgia Bell peaches gone. Mr. Hendricks said yesterday that the peach crop experiment at the state farm had been completed and that the orchard had been cut away. Efforts on Hendricks part to keep the nearby orchards were unsuccessful. (5/8)

Veterans Cab Service. These taxi drivers offer to drive church-goers, free of charge, to the church of their choice, between the hours of 10 and 12 oclock. Merely phone 9174 and S.B. or Percy Johnson, Pete Hager, Buck Coley, Henry Allen or Raymond Cook will come get you and take you to church. (5/9)

One hundred years ago:

Landmark, May 5 and 9, 1921.

Iredell county commissioners & citizens discuss roads with Wilkesboro chamber of commerce. Iredell wants the present Wilkesboro road adopted as the connecting road between Iredell and Wilkes capitals. At the meeting in Wilkesboro yesterday afternoon, the Wilkes citizens present gave their unanimous approval of the proposition. (5/5)
Libyan smuggling gangs are once more taking a beating after nearly a year of prosperity. More and more of the flimsy boats smugglers use to get illegal migrants to Italy are being intercepted and returned to Libya. These gangs prospered after the Turks drove LNA forces from coastal ports near Tripoli in early 2020. With no one willing or able to prevent the smugglers from operating, the lucrative business of moving illegal migrants to Europe via nearby Italy was revived. Before the Turks arrived the LCG (Libyan Coast Guard) regularly cracked down on the smugglers. The Turks didnt care about the smugglers. In part this was because back in Turkey the government tolerates people smugglers arranging (for a fee from the illegal migrant) to get Arabs, Africans or Asians from Turkey to Europe, unless the EU (European Union) pays the Turks lots of money to halt the smugglers. The LCG is something of a mercenary outfit that is not controlled by anyone in Libya. The LNG was founded and sustained by Italy, which pays the LCG to keep illegal migrants from reaching Italy. That only works if someone, like the LNA, is willing to protect the presence of the LCG near smuggler ports, especially Sabratha (a coastal city 66 kilometers west of Tripoli) .

Sabratha has long been notorious as the main port from which criminal gangs, under the protection of Tripoli based militias, moved illegal migrants to Europe. Local militias sometimes allowed this as long as they got a slice of that income. As long as they were powerful enough to control coastal towns, the militias protected the gangsters moving the illegal migrants to Europe via Libya. Most of the boats loaded with illegal migrants headed for Europe leave from Sabratha and other smaller coastal towns in the area. It costs these illegals thousands of dollars each for the smugglers to get them to the Libyan coast and then onto boats that get them to Europe, or close enough for the EU (European Union) naval patrol to rescue them and take them the rest of the way. The smuggling gangs took in over a billion dollars from this in 2015 and found that kind of income was worth fight for. Since 2017 the LNA, some Sabratha militias and Italy worked to shut down the smugglers. The LNA had a plan for shutting down all the smuggling gangs and wanted more support from the EU to do the same with the European gangs which control more of this smuggling than the EU would like to admit. Italy took the lead implementing an EU program to organize (and subsidize) a revived Libyan coast guard, and paying southern tribes to go after people smugglers. That was the easy part and it soon greatly reduced the flow of illegals to the EU, most of them coming in via Italy. Turkish intervention made it possible for the larger Tripoli militias to resume their people smuggling for a while, but by late 2020 a ceasefire allowed LNA forces to resume supporting anti-smuggling operations in the coastal towns.

Placating The Turks

The country is still divided with the GNA (UN created Government of National Accord) controlling the least territory while the HoR (the last elected government that disagreed with the formation of the GNA) now busy dealing with the remaining Islamic terrorists and smuggling gangs, as long as the Turkish mercenaries remain inactive.

This ceasefire made it possible for the two rival Libyan governments to work on a merger agreement. In February Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh was selected by to head (as prime minister) the unified GNU (Government of National Unity). Dbeibeh is from Misrata, where he was born in 1959, and was educated in Canadian universities before returning to become a successful businessman in the 1980s. During the 2011 revolution Dbeibeh favored the Moslem Brotherhood but was perceived as doing so mainly to protect his family and business interests. He is known to have used corrupt behavior to keep his businesses going during the decade of fighting but is trusted enough to form the temporary government and attempt to organize the December elections. The main obstacle to holding the elections is the Turks, who demand that their presence in Libya be legitimized and that the agreements they made with the GNA in late 2019 be recognized as legal.

The GNU prime minister is still seeking to find acceptable (to GNC and HoR) candidates to head all 26 of the new government ministries. Similar negotiations proceed about moving the GNU capital to Sirte. The composition of the GNU security forces is still unsettled, as is the status of foreign troops, especially the hated Turks. A related issue is the legality of the treaty the GNA (Government of National Accord), signed with the Turks in late 2019. This agreement has Libya and Turkey agreeing to claim and exploit offshore oil and gas discoveries in the waters between Libya and Turkey. Even the UN opposes this deal because it violates numerous existing treaties that established rules for how this division of offshore resources is done. The GNA-Turkey deal is similar to the claims China is making in the South China Sea. Greece refuses to negotiate with the Turks over this and is instead appealed to the UN and international tribunals that handle such disputes. China was tried this way over its South China Sea claims and ignored ruling that upheld accusations that it acted illegally.

Turkey is no China, and does not have the means to enforce its claims and the Greeks (and many Turks) know it. One of those things most Libyans agree on is the importance of getting the Turks out of Libya. The rival HoR government in the east, based in Tobruk, agreed to support the GNU with the understanding that security would be a priority and that the status of LNA (Libyan National Army) founder and leader Khalifa Haftar be respected. The Turks, Islamic militias and GNA diehards hate Haftar and want him gone if not imprisoned. Most Libyans oppose that because Haftar suppressed Islamic terrorism in Libya and nearly united the country under the HoR until the GNA made a deal with the Turks.

To further complicate matters the HoR has long been supported by Russia, Egypt and the Gulf Arabs while the GNA has received support from Iran. The Turks have also worked with Iran in Syria and against Kurdish separatists in general. Both Turkey and Iran support Islamic terrorists when it suits their purposes. The most acceptable solution to the security issue seems to be regional security commands that would put Haftar-led forces in charge of security in some regions. The Turks have not been cooperative and tolerate rogue militias as long as Turkish interests are respected

The reality is that the main task of the GNU is to eliminate the independent militias, get the foreign troops out of the country and create a new national army. The HoR already has a version of that with its LNA, which still controls most of the country and would have unified Libya by the end of 2020 had not the GNA brought in the Turks. The current (since 2000) Turkish government is Islamic and increasingly unpopular with Turkish voters. This government is facing reverses in upcoming Turkish elections and many Turks fear their government will rig the elections to remain in power and get Turkey involved in foreign wars. These are unpopular with most Turks, which is why the Turks do most of their fighting in Syria, Libya and elsewhere with mercenaries. The Turks are increasingly the main obstacle to unity and peace in Libya, as well as Syria and elsewhere.

Eastern Promises

While the Turks threaten, in the east Egypt and the HoR have agreed that Libya, at least most LNA controlled areas, are safe enough for Egyptian workers to return. One reason for the improved security was a late 2020 Egyptian effort to organize a military training program for a pro-Egyptian tribal coalition in eastern Libya. Some of the tribesmen received military training in Egypt. The ten Libya tribes involved have ancient links with Egypt and some of the tribes straddle the border. About 14 million Egyptians have family or ancestral ties in Libya.

Before the 2011 civil war began, a million Egyptians worked in Libya, and accounted for over 80 percent of the foreign workforce. This large foreign workforce is typical of Arab oil states. Foreign workers handle skilled jobs that few locals are qualified for and many more jobs that Libyans disdain. Over 80 percent of the Egyptian workforce in Libya lost their jobs due to financial problems or anti-foreigner violence. Egypt wants peace and prosperity to return to Libya because that will also mean the return of Egyptian workers. Before the 2011 war began the 6.5 million Libyans had a per capita GDP of about $10,000 (50 percent more if adjusted for purchasing power parity). Many Libyans were content to get by on a low-stress government job and let foreign workers keep the economy going. That hasnt changed and Libya is seeking economic aid and foreign workers to get reconstruction going. While Egypt supplies the manpower, other Arab states, like the UAE and Saudi Arabia, are willing to supply the money. Until a unified government is operational throughout Libya, reconstruction projects will be restricted to eastern Libya where there is enough law and order to permit the work to proceed. There are still plenty of bandits and Islamic terrorists who see foreign workers and rebuilding efforts as a source of ransom and extortion income. Nationwide there is potential demand for over two million foreign workers, many of them temporary, to handle reconstruction efforts. With enough cash and foreign workers, the reconstruction can be completed within three years.

May 2, 2021 : In the southeast, along the border with Chad, LNA forces arrested a some Chad based smugglers who were moving 7,200 liters (1,900 gallons) of fuel and a truckload of weapons into Chad. This smuggling has been going on for a long time, mainly because there has been little border security government since the 2011 revolution and subsequent civil war.

April 30, 2021: In Sirte the JMC (Joint Military Commission of GNC and LNA) met under the auspices of the GMU to discuss how to resolve problems with rogue militias still blocking the coast road. Clearing that road is one of the pre-conditions for holding elections. Most Libyans live along the coast and the coastal highway is an essential element of national unity and prosperity. Powerful local militias took advantage of that after 2011 and this lucrative power to extort transit fees from traffic is one of the things that kept many militias in business. That income included fees from smuggling gangs operating from coastal ports. The LNA systematically eliminated militia control of the road east of Sirte (a coastal city 500 kilometers east of Tripoli and 560 kilometers west of Benghazi). In early 2020 the LNA finally gained control of Sirte but by mid-2020 the invading Turks were moving west and trying to take Sirte. That failed and that was one of the reasons the Turks tolerated a ceasefire. The LNA is still having problems with local militias that want regain control of Sirte. The presence of Turkish forces (in the form of Syrian Arab mercenaries) is a major obstacle because they dont take orders from any Libyans, but from the Turks.

April 29, 2021: The head of the NOC (National Oil Corporation) announced that there is now an agreement on how to distribute oil income to areas controlled by the GNC and H0R. The Turks had to be convinced that the NOC was not political operation but one that operated under UN scrutiny (and audits) to keep oil production going and organize the massive effort to catch up on delayed maintenance and upgrades to oil facilities. That will require foreign loans as well as stable oil prices and political stability in Libya.

Since 2019 the LNA has established reliable security for all oil facilities. By the end of 2020 o il production had risen from 800,000 to 1.2 million BPD (barrels per day). In August 2020 the LNA ordered preparations for oil exports to resume and that happened more rapidly than expected. At that time the NOC expected to have production to nearly two million BPD by the end of 2021. Production is currently 1.2 million BPD and a realistic goal for the end of 2021 is 1.5 million BPD if the ceasefire is maintained. With that production could reach 1.6 million BPD by the end of 2022. The production level before the 2011 civil war began was 1.6 million BPD. Oil exports resumed in October 2020, despite threats from some militias near ports to shut that down if the militias did not receive more money for protecting the ports from other militias. The LNA was able to quickly deal with these threats. Production estimates depend on the success of the December national elections and maintaining the peace nationwide.

April 20, 2021: The NOC invoked force majeure clause to halt oil exports in some ports because of delays in the Central Bank allocating the money to run the ports. Force majeure is a legal step indicating that circumstances beyond its control cancel existing agreements until the crises passes. This was previously used to protect Libya from being sued for damages by companies that had bought oil that was now not going to be delivered because outlaw militias had taken control of oil facilities. This means the buyers will end up spending more to buy the oil they need on the open oil market, rather than pay a lower negotiated price. Theres a price for using force majeure, and that is lower prices for your oil in the future until you restore faith in your ability to fulfill your contracts. After about a week the financial problems were resolved and force majeure oil lifted. Because of the force majeure daily exports fell several hundred thousand BPD each day exports were halted.

April 12, 2021: Egypt announced it has temporarily suspended diplomatic normalization discussions with Turkey and will also freeze bilateral security cooperation. Egypt made these decisions for several reasons, but diplomats said Egypt is particularly incensed because Turkey has failed to withdraw its mercenaries from Libya. Egypt also wants two senior members of the Moslem Brotherhood extradited from Turkey. Despite the rebuff, Turkey indicated it still hopes to sign a new maritime border agreement with Egypt.

April 5, 2021: In North Africa ambitious Chinese foreign policy is running into trouble. Both China, the West and oil-rich Arab states are willing to provide aid and loans to Libya, but only if certain conditions are met. China has few demands but wants economic and military access as well pro-China foreign policy. China is willing to take its losses in places like Libya, as well as exploiting the local corruption, to get what China wants. The West wants reduced corruption (including illegal migrants) and the removal of foreign troops, especially the Turks. The Arab oil states want more power for Islam in the new government and help with controlling Iranian and Turkish efforts to gain more control over Moslem states in the region. Israel wants peace, economic ties and cooperation in dealing with Islamic terrorism. Most Libyans are willing to accept the Western, Arab and Israeli conditions. China is a maybe because of the Chinese reputation for doing whatever it takes, including bringing in Chinese workers and demanding that these workers be allowed remain if they wish. Most Libyans also want the foreign troops out and less corruption. On a personal level, most Libyans want some other Libyan to go first when it comes to abandoning the many corrupt practices that have long been generally acceptable, or at least tolerated in Libya. All of these foreign powers are willing to reopen their embassies and such. That will clarify the local situation for foreigners, which wont help if all the foreigners see is corruption and mismanagement.
The DuPage County States Attorneys Office reported Dwayne Dykes, 43, of the 5400 block of South Wood Street, punched the woman in the face during an argument and then kicked her after she fell, while they were staying at a hotel in Willowbrook on June 21, 2017.
The ARC is a key funding tool for addressing the unique challenges facing our Appalachian region, said Northam. Investing in Appalachia is more important now than ever before as we work to address the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and ensure that no area of the Commonwealth is left behind in our recovery. These 13 projects align with our ongoing efforts to improve the health and wellbeing of all those in our Appalachian communities by creating new economic opportunities, building critical infrastructure, preparing a skilled workforce and supporting community development.
Furbush said she witnessed male counselors send love notes to female campers and that counselors regularly participated in events that involved campers and counselors being naked together.

A third woman, a 27-year-old from Floyd who goes by Cheyenne Doe in the lawsuit, said campers learned about things like the liberated underwear movement in which campers marched through camp in their bras and panties or boxers. A counselor who took the campers' photos posted it to Facebook, she said.

A press release announcing the lawsuits also mentions an activity called "Goddess Night" in which female campers were expected to run naked through a field as male staffers and campers cheered them on.

This is A.R.E. camp culture, this corruption of boundaries and this was my normal, Furbush said.

During her five years as a counselor at the camp, Furbush said she was relentlessly harassed by older male staff members. When she was 20, she said, she was sexually assaulted by a senior staff member.
Apple's App Storethe only way software apps can get onto iPhones or other Apple mobile devicesis at the heart of a trial with Epic Games opening in a federal court across the bay from San Francisco

While Apple chief Tim Cook touts the brand's App Store as an economic miracle, Fortnite-maker Epic Games says developers suffer under its tyranny.

The online shopthe only way software apps can get onto iPhones or other Apple mobile devicesis at the heart of a trial opening Monday in a federal court across the bay from San Francisco.

'An app for that'

Apple opened its App Store in July 2008, a year after the release of the first iPhone.

The shop, stocked with mobile apps tailored for devices powered by iOS mobile software, was quickly imitated by rival smartphone makers.

It ignited an entire economy where developers big or small could make money with "an app for that," from games or social networking to summoning car rides or ordering food.

Apps are only allowed onto Apple mobile devices through the App Store, which requires them to abide by rules for privacy and security.

The App Storethe lone gateway onto the more than one billion iPhones in use around the worldhas grown to include more than 1.8 million apps.

Hundreds of billions of dollars in transactions take place at the App Store each year in what Apple chief Cook has called an "economic miracle."

Apps are only allowed onto Apple mobile devices through the App Store, which requires them to abide by rules for privacy and security

Apple's bite

Apple takes a commission of as much as 30 percent of financial transactions at the App Store, where most apps can be downloaded for free.

In January, Apple reduced its commission to 15 percent for newcomers and developers making less than a million dollars annually.

Apple had already cut its 30 percent commission in half in the case of paid subscriptions after the first year.

Some services such as music-streamer Spotify have tried to coax aspiring subscribers to avoid using the App Store. While popular services such as Netflix can rely on people doing business at their own websites, small developers lack that kind of draw.

Amazon was a rare exception, negotiating a special deal at the App Store for subscriptions to its Prime streaming television service.

Epic move

Epic Games was booted from the App Store last year after it triggered an update in its Fortnite game that bypassed the Apple payment system that collects commissions.

Some services such as music-streamer Spotify have tried to coax aspiring subscribers to avoid using the App Store

Epic filed a lawsuit in US federal court against Apple, accusing the iPhone maker of monopolistic behavior due to its tight control of the App Store and collection of a "tax."

Apple countered that the commission reflects industry norms and amounts to fair compensation for providing a secure online shop that spans the world.

Apple overlord

Epic and other app makers accuse Apple of tyrannically enforcing App Store rules to the Cupertino-based company's benefit.

Epic Games was booted from the App Store in 2020 after it triggered an update in its Fortnite game that bypassed the Apple payment system that collects commissions

Spotify has argued that Apple gives its own music service advantage in the shop.

On Friday, the European Union formally accused Apple of using the App Store to unfairly squeeze out music-streaming rivals in one of the biggest-ever competition cases to hit the iPhone maker.

The charge sheet lands as Apple faces a rebellion from firms that want to break free of its store's strict terms and fees, while authorities in the US, Russia, Britain and South Korea are also circling the world's biggest company.

The European Union has formally accused Apple of using the App Store to unfairly squeeze out music-streaming rivals in one of the biggest-ever competition cases to hit the iPhone maker

Facebook is among the App Store critics, saying new rules, which block the tracking of users' online activity for ad targeting without express permission, is an abuse of its power.

Google runs an app shop for Android-powered mobile devices, and collects commissions, but it also lets device users get apps elsewhere.

 2021 AFP
Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

American cybersecurity firm Mandiant has recently faced a number of security incidents surrounding compromises of Pulse Secure VPN appliances. The attackers involved have used authentication bypass techniques to circumvent VPN security parameters. The threat groups appear to have installed APT via web shells to monitor systems despite VPN functionality.

These web shells have withstood multiple upgrades. So far, Pulse Secure has ascertained that this attack has built upon a series of prior vulnerabilities and one vulnerability just discovered in April 2021 (CVE-2021-22893) to carry out the initial infection. Since these attacks began, Pulse Secure's parent company Ivanti has provided fixes for a vulnerability exploited using this malware. In addition, the company will release the Pulse Connect Secure Integrity Tool in order for customers to assess whether their systems have been affected.

For now, Pulse Secure and Mandiant have been diligently collaborating to address this issue for customers, government partners and other forensics experts. Thus far, the investigation shows no evidence to suggest that any kind of compromise in the software deployment or supply chain processes introduced these detected backdoors.

Currently, ongoing code analysis initiatives are assessing the 12 seemingly unique malware families associated with these attacks. On the government side, Mandiant has joined forces with Ivanti and Pulse Secure to monitor agency networks for backdoor activity.

Across the board, research teams have labeled the relevant malicious Trojan code that bypasses multifactor authentication as SLOWPULSE. In terms of the web shells, the teams have coined the code names RADIALPULSE and PULSECHECK.

Evidently, threat groups have been using modified, but legitimate, Pulse Secure binaries and scripts to tamper with the VPN appliance. Indeed, attacks related to this vulnerability were uncovered going back to 2019 and 2020.

Researchers have identified the following steps in the attacker process: SLOWPULSE uses Trojanized shared objects with malicious code to log credentials and bypass authentication checks, insert malicious web shells into legitimate, Internet-accessible Pulse Secure VPN appliance administrative web pages for the target devices, toggle the filesystem between Read-Only and Read-Write modes in order to enable file modification, maintain persistence despite administrator upgrades to VPN appliance upgrades, unpatch modified files and remove scripts and utilities after use in order to avoid detection, and use a tool known as THINBLOOD to delete all relevant log files based on a regular expression set by the threat actor.

The final patch for this vulnerability will go into effect starting early this month, May 2021.

Explore further FBI launches an effort to mitigate attacker use of Microsoft Exchange vulnerabilities

More information: Perez, D., et al. "Check Your Pulse: Suspected APT Actors Leverage Authentication Bypass Techniques and Pulse Secure Zero-Day." FireEye, FireEye, Inc., 20 Apr. 2021, Perez, D., et al. "Check Your Pulse: Suspected APT Actors Leverage Authentication Bypass Techniques and Pulse Secure Zero-Day." FireEye, FireEye, Inc., 20 Apr. 2021, www.fireeye.com/blog/threat-re  secure-zero-day.html

 2021 Science X Network
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Studies at TU Graz show that the older an traction battery of electric vehicles (EV) is, the lower the danger it poses. Now the researchers and industry partners want to define parameters for the subsequent use of discarded batteries.

As part of the project SafeBattery, a team from Graz University of Technology (TU Graz) has been investigating the behavior of lithium-based batteries in electric cars under crash loads for the past four years. "The performance of new battery cells is largely known, so we dealt with the entire life cycle," explains project manager Christian Ellersdorfer at the Institute of Vehicle Safety. Together with industry partners such as AVL, Audi and Daimler, research was conducted into scenarios that a battery can experience in the course of its life: for example, vibrations and strong accelerations caused by parking bumps, serious accidents and the constant charging and discharging of batteries.

Changes due to charging and discharging

With the help of crash tests, simulation models and calculation methods, the researchers were able to determine that vibrations and accelerations hardly affect the behavior of batteries. However, more significant mechanical and electrical changes were seen as a result of the constant charging and discharging of the battery. Battery cells aged in this way have a higher stiffness under mechanical load. "But the changes don't necessarily mean that batteries become more dangerous with age. On the contrary. The sum of the influences makes them safer over time because they also lose electrical energy," says Ellersdorfer. The investigations of Ellersdorfer et al show that cells with a strongly reduced capacity content have a weakened course of the so-called thermal runaway after an internal short circuit. Thus, the reduced energy potential of aged batteries decreases the likelihood of accidental battery fires.

Benefit for automotive industry

Thanks to the research results, manufacturers now know what they can expect from a battery cell. This enables material-saving designs and greater efficiency, as Ellersdorfer explains: "Until now, the battery was installed in such a way that deformations could be ruled out in every conceivable scenario. Now manufacturers can make better use of the installation space. And safety checks on a new cell are valid for the life of the battery."

Approval of EVBs for a second life

In the timeline of a battery's life, the SafeBattery consortium now goes one step further. In the recently launched COMET project SafeLIB, the changes in traction batteries for electric vehicles are being examined in even greater detail together with other partners (LIT Law LAB, Infineon, Fronius, Mercedes) in order to be able to derive safety factors for subsequent use. "Used batteries with a power capacity of 80 percent are no longer suitable for electric vehicles, but they are very suitable for stationary energy storage or for machine tools. For the first time, we are determining generally valid parameters in the area of safety," says Ellersdorfer, describing the project.

The researchers will use the world's only test bench technology for battery safety at the Battery Safety Center Graz, which opened at the end of 2020. There, the early life of a battery cell can be examined at an unprecedented level of detail. The legal framework for re-usability (e.g. the question of liability for consequential damage) is also taken into account. In addition to the so-called "state of health", which reflects the existing residual capacity and performance of a battery cell, a "state of safety" should ultimately be defined, by which the safety status of a battery can be assessed over the entire life cycle. SafeLIB runs for four years and ends in 2025. The Austrian Research Promotion Agency FFG is funding the project with a total of 6 million euros.

More information: Safety Aspects of Lithium-Based Traction Batteries Including the Qualification for Second Life Applications (German only): Safety Aspects of Lithium-Based Traction Batteries Including the Qualification for Second Life Applications (German only): www.ffg.at/sites/default/files  kt_C8_SafeLIB_de.pdf
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Boris Johnson's personal phone number has been publicly available on the internet for 15 years, it has been revealed. Listed at the bottom of a 2006 press release, the number has reportedly been accessible online from the time the prime minister was shadow higher education minister through to his rise to Number 10.

That such a high-value mobile number has been publicly available for so long has raised cybersecurity concerns. If hostile states had access to the number, it's possible they could have used it to spy on the prime minister. That would pose a serious security risk to the UK.

Hackers and cybercriminals place a high premium on our mobile phone numberswith which they can do a lot of damage with very little effort. While there is currently no evidence that Boris Johnson's data and communications have been compromised, having your mobile phone number being freely available significantly increases your vulnerability to cyber-attacks.

Impersonation

One such cyber-attack is the "SIM swap"a very common technique that's difficult to stop. It's usually used by hackers to exploit a high-value individual's exposed phone number.

SIM swaps see hackers call up the victim's mobile phone provider, impersonating them and requesting to "port-out" the phone number to a different carrier or a new SIM card. They can use other publicly available informationsuch as the victim's date of birth and their addressto make a more convincing case.

On completion of the port-out, the phone number activates on the attacker's SIM card, and the hacker can send and receive messages and make calls as if they were the victim.

Phone companies have been aware of this problem for years, but the only routine solution they've come up with is offering PIN codes that a phone owner must provide in order to switch devices. Even this measure has proved ineffective. Hackers can get the codes by bribing phone company employees, for instance.

Access

Once hackers gain control of a phone number, they can then access their online profileson Facebook, Twitter, Gmail and WhatsAppwhich are all usually linked to the mobile number. All they need to do is ask the social media companies to send a temporary login code, via text message, to the victim's phone.

This was reported to be the case for Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey, whose mobile phone SIM swap resulted in hackers posting offensive messages to millions of his followers. Other high-value individuals have also fallen victim to these kinds of attacks, including the actress Jessica Alba, and online personalities like Shane Dawson and Amanda Cerny.

Aside from posting offensive messages, hackers have been reported to use the accounts to spam, steal identities, access private communications, steal cryptocurrency, and maliciously delete mobile phone data.

Surveillance

Hackers can also use another even simpler method to attack a phonethough some advanced spyware is needed to make the attack stick. Hackers armed with someone's phone number can send them a text message with a hyperlink within it. If clicked, the link allows spyware to infiltrate the phone, compromising much of its data.

It appears this method was used to infiltrate and spy on Jeff Bezos' phone in 2020, after reports found it to be "highly probable" that a text sent from Mohammed bin Salman, the crown prince of Saudi Arabia, delivered the spyware to Bezos' phone. Similar spyware has been used to monitor the phones of journalists and human rights activists.

It is possible that Boris Johnson's mobile phone has never been hacked, in spite of the 15 years that his number was freely available online. However, seeing as the exposed phone numbers of high-value individuals can be taken advantage of by criminals or hackers from hostile states, tight new security measures should be put in place to avoid such an oversight happening again.

Explore further Twitter says hackers used phone to fool staff, gain access

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
A colorized scanning electron micrograph of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Credit: NIAID

A year into the COVID-19 pandemic, mass vaccinations have begun to raise the tantalizing prospect of herd immunity that eventually curtails or halts the spread of SARS-CoV-2. But what if herd immunity is never fully achievedor if the mutating virus gives rise to hyper-virulent variants that diminish the benefits of vaccination?

Those questions underscore the need for effective treatments for people who continue to fall ill with the coronavirus. While a few existing drugs show some benefit, there's a pressing need to find new therapeutics.

Led by The University of New Mexico's Tudor Oprea, MD, Ph.D., scientists have created a unique tool to help drug researchers quickly identify molecules capable of disarming the virus before it invades human cells or disabling it in the early stages of the infection.

In a paper published this week in Nature Machine Intelligence, the researchers introduced REDIAL-2020, an open source online suite of computational models that will help scientists rapidly screen small molecules for their potential COVID-fighting properties.

"To some extent this replaces (laboratory) experiments, says Oprea, chief of the Translational Informatics Division in the UNM School of Medicine. "It narrows the field of what people need to focus on. That's why we placed it online for everyone to use."

Oprea's team at UNM and another group at the University of Texas at El Paso led by Suman Sirimulla, Ph.D., started work on the REDIAL-2020 tool last spring after scientists at the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS) released data from their own COVID drug repurposing studies.

"Becoming aware of this, I was like, 'Wait a minute, there's enough data here for us to build solid machine learning models,'" Oprea says. The results from NCATS laboratory assays gauged each molecule's ability to inhibit viral entry, infectivity and reproduction, such as the cytopathic effectthe ability to protect a cell from being killed by the virus.

Biomedicine researchers often tend to focus on the positive findings from their studies, but in this case, the NCATS scientists also reported which molecules had no virus-fighting effects. The inclusion of negative data actually enhances the accuracy of machine learning, Oprea says.

"The idea was that we identify molecules that fit the perfect profile," he says. "You want to find molecules that do all these things and don't do the things that we don't want them to do."

The coronavirus is a wily adversary, Oprea says. "I don't think there is a drug that will fit everything to a T." Instead, researchers will likely devise a multi-drug cocktail that attacks the virus on multiple fronts. "It goes back to the one-two punch," he says.

REDIAL-2020 is based on machine learning algorithms capable of rapidly processing huge amounts of data and teasing out hidden patterns that might not be perceivable by a human researcher. Oprea's team validated the machine learning predictions based on the NCATS data by comparing them against the known effects of approved drugs in UNM's DrugCentral database.

In principle, this computational workflow is flexible and could be trained to evaluate compounds against other pathogens, as well as evaluate chemicals that have not yet been approved for human use, Oprea says.

"Our main intent remains drug repurposing, but we're actually focusing on any small molecule," he says. "It doesn't have to be an approved drug. Anyone who tests their molecule could come up with something important."

Explore further Drug repurposing: Researchers find existing medications may fight coronavirus infection

More information: Govinda B. KC et al, A machine learning platform to estimate anti-SARS-CoV-2 activities, Nature Machine Intelligence (2021). Journal information: Nature Machine Intelligence Govinda B. KC et al, A machine learning platform to estimate anti-SARS-CoV-2 activities,(2021). DOI: 10.1038/s42256-021-00335-w
Though they both plan to pursue the study of art in college, the sisters are still deciding where they will go and it may or may not be the same place. Avery Vang showed a dress she designed at the exhibition and Paige Vang fabric.


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EXHIBITS

Three Shows, One Street, through Sunday in Downtown Bryan. Three art exhibits from students at Purple Turtle Art Studio will be on display at The Village and Art 979 Gallery and Rx Pizza.

Tumble Through Texas, through May 15 at the Arts Council of Brazos Valley, 4180 Texas 6 in College Station. The exhibit features the winners of a contest in which artists displayed their love for Texas on tumblers. The gallery is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday.

Something Tangible, through May 20 at the Wright Gallery at Texas A&M Universitys College of Architecture. Artist Bryan Florentin uses materials salvaged from demolition sites and common subjects from daily life to explore relationships between object and image. The gallery, in Langford Architecture Building A, is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free.

A Cast of Blues, through May 21 at the J. Wayne Stark Galleries in the Memorial Student Center on the Texas A&M campus. The exhibit highlights the men and women who defined the tradition of Mississippi blues music. The gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday. Admission is free. Face masks are required. uart.tamu.edu/blues.
Concerned that a mandate to upgrade would cause companies or municipalities to shut down power plants and further reduce the states available power supply, lawmakers sought a way to provide a financial boost to the effort.

A State Utilities Reliability Fund (SURF) and the State Utilities Reliability Revenue Fund  modeled after the states existing funds for water infrastructure projects  would be created by Hubertys proposed constitutional amendment and corresponding bill. The plan would need to be approved by voters in November if passed by two-thirds of the Texas House and Senate because it alters the states constitution.

In 2013, the Legislature created the State Water Implementation Fund for Texas, known as SWIFT, by allocating $2 billion from Texas economic stabilization fund, better known as the rainy day fund. It offers subsidies and help with low-cost loans for municipal water infrastructure projects, said Rebecca Trevino, chief financial officer of the Texas Water Development Board, which is charged with managing the fund.

The SURF fund would function similarly, but instead of offering the low-cost loans and grants to municipalities, the fund would also offer those financing tools to for-profit power generation companies and others to upgrade plants to withstand more extreme weather conditions.
Its a response to the sentiment on Wall Street that oil and gas companies are contributing to climate change  and may not be a good investment in the midst of an energy transition. The bill seeks to divest the states massive investment funds from firms that boycott fossil fuel companies.

Oil and gas is the lifeblood of the Texas economy, state Rep. Phil King, R-Weatherford, said on the House floor before the bill was approved in a 92-51 vote. In the world of capital, theres a movement to deny funds to businesses that will not sign on to extreme anti-fossil fuel policy.

Pressure is increasing on Wall Street for companies and investment funds to reduce financial support for oil and gas companies due to the outsized impact the industry has on carbon emissions that contribute to climate change. Last year, Larry Fink, founder and chief executive of BlackRock, one of the worlds largest investment companies, wrote to shareholders that the firm would make climate change a defining factor in its investment strategy.

King said he spoke to an engineer in the energy industry who said the virtue signaling by BlackRock has changed capital availability to oil companies.
Yes, along most or all of the coast

Yes, but only places where an entry fee can cover their cost

No, people can continue swimming at their own risk

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Hanssen said the schools focus on volunteerism often carries over into other aspects of students lives. She said there have been GICC students who go on to work in construction careers like project managers after volunteering for Habitat for Humanity. Other windows of opportunity open for students, Hanssen said.

Weve had kids who have wanted to do an internship with somewhere we volunteered, she said. Weve had kids go on to do mission work.

Koralewski said doing community service is leading him to get more involved in school activities.

Hopefully I can expand on (community service), he said. Next year, Im looking for more leadership positions at school.

The day of service involves students grades 6-12, along with teachers.

You always hear negative things about kids these days; I did not see any kids goofing around, Hanssen said. The kids got a lot accomplished.

A great deal of satisfaction comes with those accomplishments, Koralewski said.

The best is at the end when you look back and see what youve done for your community, he said.
"Last May, when Mary Ann Vecchio watched the video of George Floyds dying moments, she felt herself plummet through time and spaceto a day almost exactly 50 years earlier. On that afternoon in 1970, the world was just as riveted by an image that showed the life draining out of a young man on the ground, this one a black-and-white still photo. Mary Ann was at the center of that photo, her arms raised in anguish, begging for help.

"That photo, of her kneeling over the body of Kent State University student Jeffrey Miller, is one of the most important images of the 20th century. Taken by student photographer John Filo, it captures Mary Anns raw grief and disbelief at the realization that the nations soldiers had just fired at its own children. The Kent State Pieta, as its sometimes called, is one of those rare photos that fundamentally changed the way we see ourselves and the world around us...."

Keep reading at WashingtonPost.com

I don't know if you'll be able to see this or if it will be behind a paywall for you. I hope the former. It's a fascinating article. By Patricia McCormick in the Washington Post Magazine, April 19th, 2021.

Articles like this take us back to first principles, by reminding us of the power and depth single images can have in the cultureand, in this case, of the sometimes sinister influence they might have in the lives of those photographed. "That picture hijacked my life," Mary Ann Vecchio said. She blames an Indianapolis Star reporter who turned her in to authorities.

A telling comment: "I'm a living person, and I'm in a history book!" Mary Ann says at one point. And, but for that picture, "I might have stayed anonymous forever."

If you can't see the article, you can see the picture here. (Again, I hope you can. I don't have a subscription to TIME.com and I can see it.)

The student photographer who took the picture, John Filo, is now head of photography for CBS. The article also describes the effect the photo had on him and his life. For example, he felt very guilty when he realized Mary Ann was not a student protester at all but merely a 14-year-old runaway who happened to be passing through the area. She had met the dead boy, Jeffrey Miller, only 25 minutes earlier. The article recounts John and Mary Ann's emotional eventual meeting.

Thanks to Scott Kirkpatrick for alerting me to this. You might remember Scott from this post.

Mike

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(To see all the comments, click on the "Comments" link below.)

Featured Comments from:

Rene: "This murder and those of the other victims at Kent State and Jackson State in Mississippi on May 15th had a profound effect on my life. I was a 25-year-old graduate student at a state university in a conservative state. As the only graduate who went out on strike at my university as part of the national student strike, I tended to stand out. Within days I was purged from the university and 'strongly advised' by the State Police who came to my home to leave the state. Discretion being the better part of valor as they say, I left within a day or two; my decrepit old Volkswagen bug just making it out to a more liberal city in another state before collapsing.

"It all turned out well in the long run (I'm now 75) but it changed the course of my life and took it in directions and to places I never would have imagined. It's part of the journey that led me to photography."

Douglas Howk: "Being a Kent State alumni (class of '68), I was invited to a fundraiser at Ted Kennedy's home in McLean, VA. Most of us were still in shock at what happened, but we remembered the animosity of the Kent townsfolk toward us students. Being both anti-war and a veteran (Army, '65), I could sense the hatred of a polarized nation. Sounds familiar."

Phil: "Thanks Mike. That's an incisive lesson: to contemplate the effects of a photo on both the person who took it and especially the people in the photo. It's something that all us street photographers should stop and think about, once in a while since, by definition, we're snapping pictures of people who didn't choose to be in our photos.

"I was 10 years old when the Kent State massacre took place. I don't really remember it at the time. But I do remember that summer, during our family trailer trip across Canada, somewhere in the prairies the CSN&Y song 'Ohio' came on the radio from some local radio station and my older brother and I stopped and listened raptly. I've always remembered that moment. My parents weren't keen on that 'hippy music' but my brother pointed out that this was protesting when the students were shot and my parents both stopped and listened with somber attention. That moment certainly was one of those inflection-points one has as a kid."

albert erickson: "I am a Kent graduate class of 1970. Yes I was on campus that day. It was my last day of undergraduate school. I was not directly apart of the demonstrations but nonetheless it affected my life more than I would ever realize at the time. I was commissioned a second lieutenant a month later as a result of completion of Army ROTC and faced with a decision about Viet Nam. Fortunately I never had to make that choice but was assigned stateside. I hold a place in my heart for Kent and those who were a part of that demonstration and following events. To this day I sit on a board at the University and make several trips a year back to the school. That day and those events were a large part of who I am today. Thanks for mentioning this today."
Paris, TX (75460)

Today

Rain showers early with scattered thunderstorms arriving for the afternoon. High 79F. Winds SSE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%. Locally heavy rainfall possible..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms this evening becoming more widespread overnight. Low 69F. Winds SE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%.
The motion to abate the taxes back to property owners failed on March 30 when McKenzie acknowledged she voted incorrectly, believing a different motion was on the table. McKenzie motioned for the board to reconsider the vote, and this passed by a 3-2 vote, but the board did not revote on the original motion calling for the $2.2 million abatement of taxes.
The training is open to anyone interested in the effects of domestic violence on children. Dalus Ben Avi, director of Marketing & Community Engagement at Centerstone, said the training is appropriate for anyone who cares about or works with children, including families of domestic violence survivors.

This training has been approved for 1.5 hours of continuing education for licensed social workers, professional counselors and nurses.

The training is part of Centerstones Trauma, Treatment and Training (CT3) program, which is funded by a $2 million, five-year grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and Center for Mental Health Services. The programs goal is to increase access to trauma-focused treatment for children and adolescents who have experienced traumatic events and their families.

Other one-day CT3 training in 2021 include: The Effects of Domestic Violence on Children, May 26 and Oct. 27; ACEs (Adverse Childhood Events), June 30; Trauma 101, July 28 and Dec. 8; Childhood Trauma, Aug 25; Stewards of Children, Sept. 29; Secondary Trauma, Nov. 10.

To register, visit http://bit.ly/052621. For more information, contact Ragan at megan.ragan@centerstone.org or call 1-877-HOPE123 (877-467-3123), ext. 7875.

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CHICAGO  The leader of Chicago Public Schools announced Monday that she's leaving the post later this year because it's time to pass the torch to new leadership of the nation's third-largest school district.

The move follows a tumultuous tenure for longtime educator Janice Jackson, who became CEO in 2018 after twice serving in the post temporarily following scandals involving both of her predecessors.

Among other things, Jackson oversaw schools during an 11-day teachers strike in 2019, community uproar over proposed high school closures and numerous fights with the Chicago Teachers Union this year over reopening plans following coronavirus pandemic restrictions. The battles nearly resulted in a strike this year as students prepared to return to classrooms since going remote in March 2020.

In a letter to CPS families, Jackson acknowledged the difficult parts of her term but said it was an honor to serve Chicago's children. Roughly 355,000 students attend the city's public schools.

While I feel there is still more work to be done in CPS, I also believe it is time to pass the torch to new leadership for the next chapter, Jackson wrote in a letter. She was expected to address reporters later Monday.
The incident was being investigated as a crime, not a hate crime specifically, said a Chicago police spokesman, who was citing preliminary information that could change.

Charges against the man were pending as of about 9 p.m. Saturday.

Nick Lau, 33, a Logan Square resident who used to live just feet from the crash scene, told the driver his unsolicited comments were unwelcome and dismissively waved his hand at him.

At that point, according to Rob Lopez, another picnicgoer, the man yelled f------ Asians or goddamn Asians at Lau, who is Asian.

The comment escalated the arguing, and the man eventually hit the gas, hopped his truck over the curb and slammed into the picnic, striking and trapping the woman, witnesses said.

Lau said he did not hear or could not remember the alleged racial comment, but said he wasnt initially antagonistic to the man, he simply wanted him to leave.
The investigation cast a spotlight on ComEds long-standing practice of hiring former lawmakers and Madigan staffers as lobbyists, who are required to register with the state, and as consultants, who are not.

An ethics package under consideration in the Senate, sponsored by Democratic Sen. Ann Gillespie of Arlington Heights, would create a statewide lobbyist registration database covering state, county, township and municipal governments. It would also create a uniform definition of who is a lobbyist that would include consultants who communicate with officials on behalf of a lobbyist or lobbying client to try to influence public action.

Theres a lot of confusion out there because the city (of Chicago) has one definition and a lot of locals and the counties dont even have one, then the state has another, Gillespie said. We really just need to be looking at this uniformly so that weve got the most sunlight on the activities that are happening.

Gillespies plan also would prohibit lawmakers from lobbying local governments on behalf of people or entities who also lobby the state.

Under those rules, Arroyo would not have been able to work as a registered City Hall lobbyist for sweepstakes gaming company V.S.S. Inc. because the company also was registered to lobby the state.
NORMAL  Illinois will spend $15 million on two academies that will train hundreds of workers in advanced manufacturing skills, with the first students enrolling later this year, Gov. J.B. Pritzker said.

The advanced manufacturing academies will be at Heartland Community College in the central Illinois community of Normal and at Southwestern Illinois College in Belleville, near St. Louis.

The $15 million comes from Illinois' capital plan, Pritzker's office said Wednesday. Other funding will come from regional partners and employers such as Rivian, which has an electronic-vehicle assembly plant in Normal. The company is providing $1.5 million to create the Electric Vehicle-Energy Storage Manufacturing Training Academy at Heartland Community College.

"This project will help prepare local workers for the well-paid, technical jobs that the clean energy transition requires," said James Chen, the company's vice president of public policy and chief regulatory counsel.
JACKSONVILLE  The Illinois Department of Public Health is working on a plan to allow people to prove they've been vaccinated, but few details have been released.

A spokesman for the department said "vaccinated individuals may want to be able to prove they have been vaccinated, especially if they misplace their CDC vaccination card."

The department said it is working to provide that service to people, but it did not disclose if they're working with a third party vendor or provide any timeline for such a service.

Last month, Gov. J.B. Pritzker said vaccination passports could be useful as more Illinoisans get vaccinated for COVID-19.

"As long as it is your choice," Pritzker said. "If people ask you to show that for a particular venue or private venue, they have the ability and right to do that. You don't have to show that to them. You don't have to go to that venue or be engaged in that activity."

Media reports earlier this week indicate groups in Chicago are working to offer electronic COVID-19 vaccine passports.
The criminal statute pertaining to the abuse or neglect of a long-term care facility resident states, in part, that a person commits criminal neglect of a long term care facility resident when he or she recklessly performs acts that cause a residents life to be endangered, health to be injuredor that create the substantial likelihood that an elderly persons or person with a disabilitys life will be endangered, (or) health will be injured.

Rep. Deanne Mazzochi, an Elmhurst Republican who practices civil law, said the report contains examples that should be further investigated to ensure that the criminal statute was not broken during the outbreak at LaSalle.

It is reasonable to know that putting a COVID-positive patient in a COVID negative patient's room is going to endanger or threaten their health or their life, Mazzochi said at the Friday news conference.

She was referring to an incident in the report where staff described a COVID-19-positive veteran and a COVID-19-negative veteran being placed in the same room. The veteran who tested negative was then moved to a non-infected wing of the facility, despite their exposure to a positive veteran.

Both Durkin and Mazzochi said the Illinois Attorney General could conduct a criminal investigation into the deaths at LaSalle.
There have been abandoned buildings in Gary since at least the 60s. Why now, and is there someone behind (these fires)? he said. You still have people living down there whove been there forever and are just living their lives, and now they have to worry about abandoned houses catching fire around them. Its immensely unfair and I hope the citys able to find out whats causing them.
In a recent CATO Institute report titled, Qualified Immunity: A Legal, Practical and Moral Failure, Jay R. Schweikert concludes that, Qualified immunity is one of the most obviously unjustified legal doctrines in our nations history.

He counts a large number of lower-court judges critical of qualified immunity and some calling for its end. In addition, Schweikert reports that in 2018 Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor called qualified immunity an absolute shield for law enforcement that has gutted the deterrent effect of the Fourth Amendment.

The Supreme Court is thus responsible for undermining the accountability burden placed on police officers in the 1871 law. But, since it is unlikely a Supreme Court majority will back down any time soon, it now up to the U.S. Congress to re-establish the original intent of the 1871 statute  and that is just what legislators are trying to do.

On March 3, the House of Representatives passed, and sent to the Senate, the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act of 2021 that would, if it becomes law, amend the 1871 law to explicitly prohibit police officers accused of civil rights violations from using either the good faith defense or the not-clearly-established-law defense.

This nation was founded on the idea that governments are formed to secure the civil rights of citizens, not to threaten and abuse them. Rejection of the qualified immunity doctrine and once again holding police officers accountable for their actions would be a fine way to reaffirm that basic principle of American government.

Ronald Fraser, Ph.D., writes on public policy issues for the DKT Liberty Project, a Washington-based civil liberties organization. Write him at: fraserr@erols.com

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You dont have to stay in the nursing home if you dont want to. If you can manage to get out and have a place to go then its your life. Even if you want to spend your remaining days crawling in the floor to the kitchen or the bathroom then its your God-given right to live out your days in such a way.

Too often people feel as if they do not have choices. Some nurse or social worker says, Oh, you cant leave here. Really? If you are mentally and physically able then you can show them by getting up, putting on your clothes, if you are able, and walking or crawling out the door.

A few years back, an acquaintance went to the emergency room. After 30 minutes of feeling like she was being treated very poorly, she got up and left. An attending nurse called for her to stop saying, Wait, you cant leave! The acquaintance said, Watch me. The nurse responded, You have to see the doctor! The acquaintance said No, I dont. To which the nurse responded, You cant leave without signing this paper! The acquaintance responded, Im not signing anything, as she walked out the door.
Job Title: Technology Associate

Organisation: New Energy Nexus Uganda

Duty Station: Kampala, Uganda

Salary: UGX 3,800,000 to 4,200,000 /=

About US:

ENVenture, operating as New Energy Nexus Uganda, is a Ugandan-registered company that empowers rural organizations to learn business skills to launch sustainable clean energy enterprises. ENVenture is a program of New Energy Nexus, an international non-profit that supports clean energy entrepreneurs with funds, accelerators, and networks.

ENVenture has developed a web-based application to enable entrepreneurs to be able to transition from a paper-based system of tracking business records to enable our entrepreneurs to keep records whose data will help make more informed decisions. The application will go a long way to improve the performance and sustainability of the entrepreneurs that ENVenture supports.

Key Duties and Responsibilities: Reporting to the Country Director, the Technology Associate will be responsible for:

Web applications for the ENVenture team and Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) in data, payment, and sales tracking.

Helping to conduct user research and set product roadmap

Ensure a high uptake and usage of the app by our existing and new CBOs

Maintaining app product roadmap

Recommending interface changes and working with developers

Supporting fundraising team on communicating the application and its impacts

Managing other technology solutions to improve operational efficiencies, including but not limited to:

Remote field management

Loan Management Software

Systematizing impact measurement

Administering cloud-based reporting tools (Salesforce, Box, Google Drive, Awamu, etc.)

Technology Strategy (34%)

Prepare proposals and strategy for senior leadership on technology products ENVenture should invest in for efficiency.

Develop and support our e-learning platforms in collaboration with our Head of Fellows.

Determine gaps within the organization and where technology can encourage operational efficiency.

Determine our user bases technology needs and perform research to guide on how the application can solve their pain points.

Processes (33%)

Conduct internal training on software being implemented for the team.

System administrator for all technology platforms and monitor to determine uptake and usage among ENVenture CBOs. Troubleshoot low-usage.

Write and document processes and create workstreams and flows for the team.

Develop and lead the user adoption strategy for the application.

Product management (33%)

Prepare proposals and strategy for senior leadership on the application and ENVision mobiles product roadmap.

Lead on approved roadmap with developers and product management.

Support partners using ENVision mobile, our open source mobile app, as well as other open source platforms to foster product roadmap.

Maintain technical guides for all products developed.











Qualifications, Skills and Experience:

This position requires the ability to multi-task and wear many hats in a start-up environment, and be comfortable making decisions. This position is not closely supervised and a degree of self-direction and entrepreneurialism is needed.

Bachelors degree, preferred in computer science, design, business, business computing or any IT-related discipline.

At least four years experience in managing technology products.

Thrive in a startup environment and on delivering results with limited resources.

Passion and enthusiasm for mission-oriented work.

Exceptional English writing and oratory skills.

Tech-savviness (ability to operate all Microsoft Office and Google Suite applications, such as Word, PowerPoint, and Excel). Ability to use Skype, email, WhatsApp, Messenger, and other meeting software on a regular basis.

Ability to work with rural based entrepreneurs

Ability to offer hands on training to low tech entrepreneurs

Willingness to support CBOs as and when they contact him or her on issues related to our apps.

Excellent interpersonal skills.

Similar experience is desired, but not a must. Ugandan nationals are preferred.

Benefits: Remuneration will be in the form of 3,800,000 to 4,200,000 USh grossly.

ENVenture is an equal opportunity employer. Female candidates are encouraged to apply.

How to Apply:

All candidates should apply online at the link below.

Click Here

For more of the latest jobs, please visit https://www.theugandanjobline.com or find us on our facebook page https://www.facebook.com/UgandanJobline
Investigators claim Hastert asked what the half-hour rate was and later stated what specific acts he was interested in, telling the operative he would arrive at the hotel at 4 p.m. Thursday. At about 4:05 p.m., investigators witnessed Hastert walking through the hotel parking lot, wearing a blue shirt and blue jeans. The agent texted Hastert to go to room 138 and agents heard a knock at the door at 4:10 p.m. Court documents state one of the investigators, identified as SA Allison observed Hastert through the peephole in the door.

Documents state a takedown command was given and Allison opened the door displaying his badge. Lt. Joseph Tomich of the Sweetwater County Sheriffs Office, wearing ballistic armor with his badge on the left of his chest and a yellow sheriff placard on the right chest, identified himself as police and grabbed Hastert by the shirt collar in an attempt to bring him into the room.

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Hastert allegedly tried to pull away from Tomich as Tomich gave commands to stop fighting him. Tomich pushed Hastert into a wall to gain control of him as Hastert allegedly continued struggling. Allison, an undercover operative and a detective identified in documents as Det. Rhea, assisted Tomich in gaining control of Hastert, dragging him to the ground as Hastert allegedly continued fighting the officers.
The Pikes Peak Southern Christian Leadership Conference acknowledged Westerns apology: Mr. Cyrus Western, we took into account the fact that you apologized to the newly appointed Albany County Sherriff (sic) Aaron Appelhans for your untimely and distasteful tweet in December, 2020, where instead of celebrating his appointment as Wyomings first Black Sheriff you used your position to demoralize him. As a State Representative, you are aware this demoralization did not only represent a personal attack on Aaron Appelhans, but also the privilege of being a White male in America and the associative implicit bias towards people of color to the extent of misuse of of that privilege as well as Representative in the form of a tweeted microaggression.
CHEYENNE  The Wyoming Department of Health has denied Laramie County School District 2s request for an exemption to the states continued mask mandate in K-12 schools.

The rural eastern Laramie County district, which serves roughly 1,050 students in grades K-12, applied for the exemption a few weeks ago and received notice that it was denied last week.

According to the districts website, it counted two active cases of COVID-19 and 12 individuals in quarantine as of the afternoon of April 27.

Laramie County, as a whole, is experiencing some of the highest case numbers in Wyoming, recording 102 active COVID-19 cases as of Thursday afternoon. Although Gov. Mark Gordon recently lifted the statewide mask mandate for most other public spaces, including gyms and bars, face coverings are still required in schools when social distancing is not possible. Students and staff who are wearing masks if and when they are exposed to an infected individual do not have to quarantine.

To date, the state health department has granted exemptions to 20 of Wyomings 48 total school districts, and all of those are in areas with low case counts.
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I also know that many times the (police department) had to wait for other agencies to respond because there was a need for a K-9 to continue, for example, a traffic stop, or looking for a lost person, etc. Bella said. Those delays can make a big difference in solving a crime, etc., so to have two dogs at the ready at all times is a great idea.
Orlando Octave is vibrating on what is for him a new philosophical frequency.

Octave recently embarked on a spiritual journey. The groovy soca artistes open search for truth and enlightenment led him through the teachings of Christianity, Islam and Hinduism then eventually towards the Hebrew Israelites  a group who believe they are the descendants of the ancient Israelites written of in the Torah and Bible.

Octave was introduced to their teachings by a friend in 2014. He developed a deeper understanding for the groups philosophy during a pilgrimage he made to Israel in 2016.
More than 2,500 manufacturing sector workers showed up at the Divali Nagar site in Chaguanas to receive their first dose of the Sinopharm Covid-19 injection at the start of a public/private sector vaccination drive.

The Trinidad and Tobago Manufacturers Association (TTMA) collaborated with the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Trade to facilitate the process.
AS we are locked in and under strict curfew for at least the next month, there are thousands of families in our own country living in poverty and going hungry in this pandemic period.

How are we helping struggling families in Trinidad and Tobago during this time, one may ask?
GET THE niggers, was their slogan, / Kill them, burn, them, set the pace. / Let them know that we are white men. /Teach them how to keep their place. AJ Smitherman, The Tulsa Race Riot and Massacre (1922).

I had just left Harvard University as an assistant professor and was doing Time to Talk, a series of interviews for T&T Television.
Three deputies forced entry into the residence and the male allegedly went after one of the officers, who used stun gun on the man. As a second officer went to handcuff the man, he reportedly got up and lunged at the officer with a knife, police said.
Many people believe remote learning is here to stay, in some capacity and are wondering about the long-term effects of virtual learning. The survey asked parents of K-12 virtual learners both about the benefits of virtual learning and concerns. For many parents, virtual learning has been an effective resource with 46% saying they spend more time with their children, 44% have learned more about their childs strengths and weaknesses, and 44% say they have a more flexible schedule.

While many believe virtual learning has been mostly effective and has some benefits, 60% of parents think their children may have fallen behind academically. Many parents also believe some benefits of in-person learning cannot be replicated in a virtual environment. The top concerns are the social aspects of learning (54%), establishing a sense of community with other children (47%), learning from and with other children (social learning (47%), one-on-one interaction with the teacher (46%), and access to social services provided in school (44%).
Broker*Agent Advisor Honors Achievement

PHOENIX--(BUSINESS WIRE)--For over a quarter of a century Broker*Agent Advisor has been celebrating the success and accomplishment of our industrys finest real estate professionals through its national 'Certificate of Excellence Program.

Through proprietary criteria, formulas, and other valuable consideration; Michael Erman, with CARLILE Realty & Lending, has been distinguished by Broker*Agent Advisor as one of the best in real estate based on achievement, potential, leadership, ethics, community value, experience, capability, and trust.
What do they mean for your job?

In his first hundred days in office, President Joe Biden signed more than 60 executive actions and ten bills, many of which have implications for U.S. jobs. He has also come out in support of sweeping legislative proposals that would dramatically transform certain industries and change the way many Americans work.
We had all the recordings and the art ready, but then since COVID hit, all of us had to pause our music lives and just focus on staying safe, said soft-spoken guitarist and vocalist Kiki Castellanos. We had to change priorities.

And with extra time on their hands, the band did what most do when they have a finished product and no where to take it: They tinkered.

A lot.

There was a lot of different things that kept happening that we had to create new strategies around, said Jim Colby, who plays keyboards and accordion. And we kept coming up with new ideas.

They did additional recording from bass player Gus Woodrow-Tomizukas home studio, where Woodrow-Tomizuka also mixed and mastered the final album.

Castellanos and Colby said the wait was worth it when they finally listened to Relatos en Caravana.
The first federally run mobile vaccination sites in Pima County opened Monday morning, launching a nearly 2-month-long initiative to bring vaccines to hard-to-reach communities with help from the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

The first two sites at Pima Community College Desert Vista, 5901 S. Calle Santa Cruz, and Pima Community College West, 2202 W. Anklam Road, will run from through Wednesday, May 5, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The mobile vaccination clinics operate concurrently at two locations for three days before moving onto a new site.

The FEMA sites have 250 doses of both the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines available each day. Walk-up shots are available for those 18 and older with no registration or ID card needed.

For those who receive the two-dose Moderna vaccine, the sites will return 28 days later to provide second shots.

As the mobile points of distribution, or PODs, are geared toward historically underserved communities, locations are chosen based on census tract data that shows areas with the highest social vulnerability.

Pima County Supervisor Adelita Grijalva attended the opening of the Desert Vista campus POD to advocate for vaccinations within the district she represents.
They were granted political asylum and refugee status, allowing Alshaibi to go to college and use financial aid where she studied photography.

I really wanted to bring attention to and shed the light on experiences, not that only I had gone through in my life, what my mother did when she was young, but that continue to endure in the Middle East, she said.

But instead of one day being a wartime photojournalist, she switched goals during college using her talents to try conceptual photography and obtaining a masters degree.

She found her way to the University of Arizona, in a place she calls a strong city for Middle East studies.

The University of Arizona has been absolutely critical to my success. I wind up getting a position here one year after graduate school, she said. Ive always wanted to come back to the West and Southwest; Im very obviously interested in border issues. The landscapes are familiar in the way that it reminds me of the Middle East.

For the past 15 years, she has served as a professor, beginning as an assistant professor to help build the program to what it is today, which is currently ranked No. 3 in the nation, according to U.S. News and World Report.
The University of Arizona is ending the spring semester on a high note with a low number of positive COVID-19 cases, school officials said Monday.

Wednesday is the last day of classes for the spring semester with finals beginning Friday, said President Robert C. Robbins in the schools weekly COVID-19 update. He said the semester is ending with low positivity rates among those tested.

Between April 26 and May 1, the university administered 4,731 COVID-19 tests, with 10 positives  a positivity rate of 0.21%. Wastewater testing on and around campus also suggests that infections are continuing to decline, Robbins said.

We had a run of a few days in a row where we had zero infections, which is truly remarkable, Robbins said. We could not have reached this point in the semester without the incredible efforts of our faculty and staff. I also want to give a special thanks to our students, as well as their families and supporters.

The university is finishing the semester in Stage 3 of its operational plan, which has allowed for classes of up to 100 students to meet in person.
PHOENIX  The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday threw out what is likely the last legal challenge remaining about the choice of Arizona voters of Joe Biden for president.

Without comment the justices refused to consider a request by Pinal County resident Staci Burk that she should be allowed to pursue her claims of evidence of election fraud. She wanted access to the ballots to prove that some were invalid.

The justices, however, never actually got to look at those claims. In fact, that wasnt even part of her petition to the high court.

What Burk wanted  and what the justices refused to grant her  is a hearing over the question of whether she was an elector under Arizona law who had standing to bring such a claim in the first place. It was that lack of standing that allowed state courts, right up through the Arizona Supreme Court, to ignore her claims.

In her underlying claims, Burk alleged widespread fraud and improper tallying by voting machines. She also claims that someone had flown a batch of ballots into Phoenixs Sky Harbor International Airport, some of which Burk said were taken to the Maricopa County ballot tabulation center.
PHOENIX  Arizonans are going to have to start looking for work again later this month if they want to keep their unemployment benefits.

Gov. Doug Ducey on Monday rescinded an order he signed in March 2020 suspending those job-search requirements during the pandemic. That was based on not wanting to force people who were infected with COVID-19, or were caring for others with the virus, to go out looking even as the pandemic was raging.

Now, effective the week of May 23, anyone wanting to keep unemployment benefits will again have to make contact with potential employers at least four days a week.

Initially it requires just a sincere job search in the chosen field to maintain benefits. There also is a mandate to document the effort.

But anyone who collects benefits for at least four weeks will find themselves being forced to take pretty much anything that comes their way. Thats because a 2018 law signed by Ducey  and now again takes effect  says individuals forfeit their benefits if they do not accept any jobs that pays them at least 20% more than they were collecting.
This is the unpleasant truth about presidential politics. Too many of us allow our politics to sabotage our patriotism, whatever this word means to you. Instead of supporting whats right for the country, we support our personal politics to the point of stubborn pride. We dig in our heels and quietly relish the failures of the president whom we didnt vote for. This attitude is as American as rotten apple pie.
Maleka Abdi from Desert View High School, Makenna Ley from TUSDs University High School and Josh Tint from Catalina Foothills High School were named 2021 Flinn Scholars.

Flinn Foundation selected 20 Arizona high school seniors to receive a full ride to one of the states public universities, which includes the full cost of tuition, mandatory fees, housing, meals, study abroad and other opportunities  valued at more than $120,000, a news release said.

The Flinn Scholars Program, now in its 36th year, is supported by the Phoenix-based Flinn Foundation in partnership with Arizonas three state universities.

There are so many great stories within this new class of Flinn Scholars, said program director Anne Lassen. As is always the case, these are astonishingly intelligent and high-achieving students. But academic success is only the beginning. Theyre characterized by perseverance, engagement with their schools, peers and families, and a dedication to improving the world around them.

Amphi hiring bus drivers

The Amphitheater School District is hiring bus drivers and other transportation staff, including mechanics and a routing coordinator.
A former Bristow police officer whose federal trial was scheduled to begin in Tulsa federal court last week opted instead to plead guilty to sexually abusing a young child.

Bradley Don Goodin, 46, of Sapulpa pleaded guilty to abusive sexual contact with a child under 12 in Indian Country. As part of the plea agreement, he agreed to a sentence of 15 years in federal prison, the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Northern District of Oklahoma reported.

U.S. District Gregory K. Frizzell will sentence him on Aug. 11.

Bradley Goodin was a danger to children, but now thanks to the Sapulpa Police Department, Creek County Sheriffs Office, the FBI, and my office, he is a convicted child predator who will spend significant time in federal prison, said Acting U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.

In a forensic interview, the girl said Goodin sexually abused her twice on Oct. 5, 2019, the U.S. Attorneys Office said. During the second incident, the victims mother walked into the room.

The girl was afraid to tell her mother at the time what was happening because she was afraid Goodin would harm them, but she later disclosed the abuse, the U.S. Attorneys Office said.
It almost seemed out of place, given the context of all the other songs, to have this very specific piece about the massacre. But upon reflection, I believe that was the point of it. There is so much more to the history, the present-day lives, and the future of Black Americans in Tulsa than the Race Massacre, as scarring an event as that is, and that was what Greenwood Overcomes meant to demonstrate.

That richness of life encompasses the romantic swagger that Thompson so aptly displayed in Tania Leons Mi amor es, as well as the grief of a love lost that he conveyed in Il a neige by David Bontemps.

It can, in true American fashion, contain multitudes, as Stewart described in listing the characteristics of H. Leslie Adams Creole Girl, or it can stake a claim to true individuality with sass and verve, as Hawkins did in Nobodys Business (But Me Own), by Peter Ashbourne.

And it can point out the cant and callowness of ones fellows, as Hawkins and Stewart did in two songs by Stewart Goodyear, One Perfect Rose and Condolence, both of which featured Dorothy Parkers sardonic verses as texts.
HB 1775 would not only interfere with the teaching of Black history, but the entire history of the United States, Armstrong wrote. If teachers are unable to help students process the implications of our Nations history without discomfort how can we teach about the Trail of Tears? How can we teach about Womens Suffrage? How can we teach about the Civil War?

Armstrong told the Tulsa World on Monday that there are aspects of the bill that the Centennial Commission does not object to but that the measure as a whole is written in such a way as to make it problematic.

It says not one race or one sex should be made inferior or superior to the other. Of course we agree with that, Armstrong said. But there are already laws in Oklahoma that state that.

The bill needs to be rewritten to ensure that teachers as well as museums and history centers can tell difficult stories, he added.

A parent could say, No, no, no, they are going to talk about stuff and they are going to see things that my child is going to be uncomfortable with, and its illegal, Armstrong said. They can get that teacher in trouble, they can make trouble for that school system based on the way this is written. It is just very, very poorly written.
Maine senator Susan Collins is appalled that Utah Republicans booed Mitt Romney, and insists, against all evidence, that the GOP is not led by just one person. Oh, puhleese. We know who the one person is, we know that he in fact is leading the Republican party down the path to extinction, and we know that he has been empowered by the likes of Susan Collins herself, who has coddled and condoned him, and voted to acquit him in two separate impeachment trials. Who can forget her pious declaration at one time that he has learned his lesson. The only lesson he learned was to do even worse things the next chance he got. And then came the Capitol Hill riot.
Controversial legislation passed by the Oklahoma House of Representatives last week with the help of some unusual parliamentary moves had to be brought back to the House floor Monday because of an irregularity during a key procedural vote the first time through.

Republicans refused to say exactly why House Bill 1775 was recalled Monday for a repeat of Thursdays votes, but Democrats and the House Journal indicate a pivotal vote was credited to a Republican representative not present at the Capitol Thursday.

The vote gave Republicans the 68 they needed to suspend the rules to bring up HB 1775 after their parliamentarian ruled it out. It is unclear whether the motion would have ultimately failed, since several other Republicans could have been rounded up if necessary.

In any event, Thursdays action was quickly rescinded and HB 1775, which limits teaching of race, racism, diversity and gender in Oklahomas public schools, colleges and universities, passed for a second time and was sent back to the governor.
The events of the past year  including the pandemic, Black Lives Matter protests and the insurrection in the Capitol  have shown our nation what happens when we dont address civic challenges or risk factors.

Similar to a dry forest that can become inflamed by a tiny spark, when we dont pay attention to threats to our civic health, one incident can set off a series of chain reactions. For instance, the publics lack of trust in government has contributed to prolonging the pandemic in multiple ways, including peoples unwillingness to wear face masks or become vaccinated.

When our civic health is strong, communities are less polarized and people are physically healthier, safer and more resilient in times of crisis. Understanding what makes civic health function well or poorly is critical to supporting a strong and functioning democracy.

How do we measure civic health? Multiple factors facilitate healthy or unhealthy civic life  including whether people vote, talk with their neighbors and trust their government. Why are some communities close-knit, while in others people barely talk with each other? Or why do some communities react to crises well, with droves of people helping deal with tragedies or natural disasters, while others lack the people power and networks to respond effectively?
A leading Indian industry body urged authorities to take the strongest national steps and to curtail economic activity to save lives on Sunday as the country battles surging coronavirus cases that have overwhelmed the healthcare system.

The rate of new infections dipped marginally but deaths kept climbing. Authorities reported 392,488 new cases in the previous 24 hours, pushing total cases to 19.56 million. Deaths jumped by a record 3,689, taking the overall toll to 215,542.

Billionaire Uday Kotak, managing director of Kotak Mahindra Bank (KTKM.NS), said a "maximal response measure at the highest level is called for to cut the transmission links", as building healthcare infrastructure will take time.

He was speaking on behalf of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), where he is the president.

"At this critical juncture when toll of lives is rising, CII urges the strongest national steps including curtailing economic activity to reduce suffering, Kotak said in a statement.

Hospitals have filled to capacity, medical oxygen supplies have run short and morgues and crematoriums have been swamped as the country deals with the surge in cases: more than 300,000 daily cases for more than 10 days straight.

Concerned about the economic impact of shutting down the economy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government is reluctant to impose a national lockdown. At least 11 states and union territories have imposed some form of restrictions.

The Indian Express newspaper reported on Sunday that the country's COVID-19 taskforce has advised the federal government to impose a national lockdown.

The eastern state of Odisha and northern industrial state Haryana became the latest to announce new lockdowns on Sunday, joining Delhi, Maharashtra, Karnataka and West Bengal.

Other states, including Uttar Pradesh, Telangana, Assam, Andhra Pradesh and Rajasthan have either imposed night curfews or weekend lockdowns.

Lockdown fears

Modi said last month all efforts should be made be avoid a lockdown. He imposed strict curbs on movement and social and economic activity last year in the early months of the pandemic and economic output fell a record 24% in April-June 2020 compared with the same period a year earlier.

The current devastating second wave has also led to a shortfall in medical staff. Kotak also said healthcare workers may not be able to tackle the influx of patients, given the escalating caseloads, and they need reinforcing.

International aid has been pouring in.

Countries including United States have shipped in critical oxygen equipment, therapeutics and raw materials for vaccine production. On Sunday, British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said his country would send more ventilatorsvery shortly.

Modi's government has been criticised for not taking steps earlier to curb the spread and for letting millions of largely unmasked people attend religious festivals and crowded political rallies in five states during March and April.

Reuters reported on Saturday that a forum of scientific advisers set up by the government warned Indian officials in early March of a new and more contagious variant of the coronavirus taking hold in the country.
Here are todays leading news stories:

COVID-19 Updates

-- Vietnam confirmed 20 new COVID-19 cases, including eight local infections, on Sunday, bringing the national tally to 2,962 patients, with 2,549 recoveries and 35 virus-related deaths.

-- The central city of Da Nang has shuttered karaoke parlors, bars, discos, game centers, pedestrian streets, and night markets from 0:00 on Monday to prevent COVID-19 transmission.

Society

-- Authorities in Nam Tu Liem District, Hanoi on Sunday night detected a group of foreigners who had entered Vietnam illegally and were living in an apartment in Cau Dien Ward.

-- Authorities in northern Lai Chau Province said on Sunday night that a 34-year-old man from Ho Chi Minh City died after suffering a cold from rains while climbing the Pu Si Lung peak in a group of ten accompanied by two guides since April 30.

-- Holidaymakers started flocking back to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City earlier than usual on Sunday afternoon after a four-day public holiday to celebrate Reunification Day (April 30) and International Workers Day (May 1), causing congested traffic at the entrances to the two biggest cities in Vietnam.

Business

-- Vietnams digital economy will likely reach US$52 billion in value by 2025, according to the e-Conomy SEA 2019 report by Google, Temasek and Bain & Company.

Education

-- Several universities in Ho Chi Minh City have requested that students and teachers who left the southern metropolis during the four-day public holiday perform health declaration upon their return.

Sports

-- Inter Milan clinched their first Serie A title in 11 years on Sunday after Sassuolo drew 1-1 with second-placed Atalanta to assure Antonio Contes side of the league crown, Reuters reported.

-- Manchester United's Premier League match against Liverpool was postponed on Sunday after United fans forced their way into the stadium and stormed the Old Trafford pitch to protest against the club's owners - the Glazer family, Reuters reported.

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Authorities in northern Lai Chau Province said on Sunday night that a 34-year-old man from Ho Chi Minh City had died after suffering a cold from rains while climbing the Pu Si Lung Mountain peak.

L.M.K., 34, from Ho Chi Minh City was among a group of ten accompanied by two guides starting to climb the peak in Lai Chaus Muong Te District on April 30.

The 12 climbers registered their temporary residency at the police station of Pa Ve Su Commune and informed their itinerary to the Pa Ve Su Border Guard Station at around 12:00 pm on the same day.

At around 6:00 am Sunday, the local functional forces received the report from the climber team that K. had died.

According to the team, it rained heavily during the conquest of the Pu Si Lung peak.

K. was soaked in the rain and later showed signs of fatigue before succumbing to a cold.

Immediately after receiving the report, we instructed the Pa Ve Su Border Guard Station, the communes authorities, and the Muong Te police to set up a task force of 20 people to go to the location of the mountaineering team, said Kieu Hai Nam, deputy chairman of Muong Te District.

According to Nam, it took about eight to nine hours to walk to the location in question.

By 4:30 pm on Sunday, the rescuers had arrived at the scene to take K.s body home.

It was expected that the rescue group would return to Pa Ve Su Communes center with the body by 10:00 pm on the same day.

The border guard officers managed to contact K.s family for his body repatriation, Nam said.

The deputy chairman added that local authorities directed its social affairs division to provide K.s family with initial support and assigned police officers to work with the other 11 members and guides in the team to clarify the cause of the incident.

The Pu Si Lung peak is located in the border commune of Pa Ve Su in Muong Te at an altitude of 3,083 meters and a top-pick destination favored by adventurous climbers in Vietnam recently.

It often takes about ten hours on foot through an arduous path in extreme weather to arrive at the peak.

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Authorities in Da Nang, a coastal city in central Vietnam, sealed off a hospital on Monday because of a suspected coronavirus infection, a source told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper the same day.

The unconfirmed patient is known as Ng.T.Ng., 23, who comes from Hoi An, Quang Nam Province.

He is a spa ticket seller at P.A. Hotel on 2-9 Street, Hai Chau District, Da Nang, which borders Quang Nam.

The man started his job on April 28.

He tends to work night shifts and frequently comes into direct contact with customers.

On Sunday afternoon, Ng. ran a fever and suffered fatigue.

He came to Hoan My Da Nang Hospital on Sunday evening and was tested for COVID-19 there.

The result came back positive, pending a conclusive retest.

He had visited various places in Hoi An and Da Nang when he exhibited symptoms.

Ng. also works as a delivery worker on the side.

Hoan My Da Nang Hospital has been locked down, pending the retest.

The Ministry of Health has yet to register this case as of Monday evening.

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Vietnam announced a daily spike of six domestically-transmitted coronavirus infections on Sunday, alongside 12 imported cases from Japan, Russia, and the Philippines.

Six of the community-based cases, a karaoke parlors employees, were registered in northern Vinh Phuc Province, the Ministry of Health said in a report.

They had come into contact with a group of five Chinese experts who visited different places in Vietnam after finishing their quarantine in the country.

Two of the Chinese experts returned to China on April 29. One of them was diagnosed with COVID-19 in their home country on May 1.

The remaining locally-transmitted infections were recorded in Ha Nam, all linked to previous cases in this province.

The health ministry reported four imported cases from Japan, four from Russia, and four from the Philippines on Sunday.

They had been quarantined since arrival by plane in Vietnam last month.

Twenty-four domestic cases have been recorded in the country since April 29.

Vietnam started enjoying a four-day holiday to observe Reunification Day and International Workers Day on Friday.

The country already canceled fireworks displays intended to celebrate the occasions given the health ministrys warning of a large-scale outbreak.

Tens of thousands of vacationers flocked to popular destinations like Da Lat, Vung Tau, Da Nang, and Nha Trang despite coronavirus risks.

Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and other provinces have shuttered non-essential services such as karaoke parlors, nightclubs, discos, and online game centers to prevent COVID-19 spread.

Vietnam has gone over three phases of COVID-19, with 2,962 infections, 2,549 recoveries, and 35 deaths, according to the Ministry of Health's statistics.

A total of 415 cases were logged from January 23 to July 24 last year, 1,136 from July 25 last year to January 27 this year, and 1,411 from January 28 to the present.

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The chairman of Ho Chi Minh City on Monday insisted that police officers and military soldiers search for two Chinese who had fled a quarantine center on the weekend, as the novel coronavirus has made a comeback in Vietnam.

Authorities have yet to find two Chinese nationals who had escaped a COVID-19 quarantine center operated by the Ho Chi Minh City Military School in Cu Chi District on Sunday night, Nguyen Huu Hoai Phu, chairman of the district, said at a meeting on Monday.

Ho Thanh Phong, a senior doctor at the military school, confirmed that information.

Born in 1999 and 2001, the two were among 11 Chinese who had illegally entered Vietnam and were intercepted by police in District 10, Ho Chi Minh City.

They were sent to the quarantine center in Cu Chi five days ago.

Cu Chi authorities searched for the Chinese throughout Sunday night but have been unable to find them, Phu said, adding that the duo may have fled to other districts.

Ho Chi Minh City chairman Nguyen Thanh Phong demanded at the meeting that police officers and military soldiers hunt for the two Chinese people, even though they had tested negative for COVID-19 once.

The Ministry of Health announced the first six local infections in over a month on Thursday last week.

It registered seven additional domestic cases on Friday, three on Saturday, and another eight on Sunday.

Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and many other provinces have ceased non-essential businesses like karaoke parlors, massage joints, cinemas, nightclubs, discos, and online game centers to stall coronavirus spread.

Pyrotechnic displays intended to celebrate Reunification Day (April 30) and International Workers Day (May 1) on the weekend also had to be scrapped over the health ministrys warning of a large-scale outbreak.

Droves of people are returning to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City after enjoying a four-day holiday from Friday in popular tourist destinations or their hometowns.

Vietnam has gone over three phases of COVID-19, with 2,962 infections, 2,549 recoveries, and 35 deaths, according to the Ministry of Health's statistics.

A total of 415 cases were logged from January 23 to July 24 last year, 1,136 from July 25 last year to January 27 this year, and 1,411 from January 28 to the present.

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Ho Chi Minh City officials have close down local massage parlors, saunas, cinemas, theaters, and online game centers since 6:00 pm on Monday in the latest move to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

The close-down decision was announced by chairman of the municipal Peoples Committee Nguyen Thanh Phong during a meeting on Monday morning.

Aside from the temporary closure of more non-essential businesses and services, chairman Phong required all residents to fill in health declaration forms as they return to the metropolis following a four-day holiday marking Reunification Day (April 30) and International Workers Day (May 1).

Those who fail to fill in health declarations or state false information in these forms will be sternly punished.

Relevant bodies will continue carrying out patrols and penalizing people for failure to wear face masks in public.

Managers of local quarantine facilities must take strict measures to prevent transmission within these venues.

The risk of a new COVID-19 outbreak in the city is very high, especially when people are rushing back after the holiday, which started on Friday, Phong assessed.

He stated that seminars and conferences should be canceled if they are not urgent.

The number of participants in religious ceremonies must be limited depending on the scale and significance of each event.

Karaoke parlors, bars, and discos in Ho Chi Minh City were previously closed from 6:00 pm last Friday until further notice.

The metropolis detected one community-based COVID-19 infection on Thursday last week, a 28-year-old man who had had direct contact with another patient in the northern province of Ha Nam before heading to the southern city earlier the same week.

Vietnam has recorded 2,962 infections as of Monday afternoon, with 2,549 recoveries and 35 deaths, according to the Ministry of Health's statistics.

Twenty-four domestic cases have been recorded in the country since April 29.

Ho Chi Minh City has documented 260 patients so far, of whom 233 have recovered.

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You are here: Business

Global investors' enthusiasm for the Chinese market seems unstoppable despite the COVID-19 pandemic, as the latest data showed that China successfully navigated the economic fallout in the turbulent year and became the top investment destination worldwide.



In 2020, global foreign direct investment (FDI) flows plummeted by 38% from a year before to 846 billion U.S. dollars, the lowest level since 2005, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) said.

The global FDI flows represented only 1% of world GDP, their lowest level since 1999, the OECD said.

OECD's FDI figures echoed a report by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development earlier this year, which also found China became the largest FDI recipient in 2020.

China's appeal to foreign investment has extended into 2021, as the Chinese economy sustained positive performance in the first quarter, and foreign companies expected a promising future in the country.

A recent survey by the Ministry of Commerce (MOC) shows that 96.4% of foreign-invested enterprises are optimistic about their business prospects in China.

The figure represents a 2.1 percentage-point increase compared with the beginning of the year, the survey of over 3,200 foreign-funded firms said.

MOC data also showed FDI into the Chinese mainland surged by 39.9% year on year in actual use to 302.47 billion yuan (about $46.74 billion) in the first quarter.

Liu Xiangdong, a researcher with the China Center for International Economic Exchanges, attributed the robust first-quarter FDI growth to a low base last year, sound economic fundamentals, and increasing attractiveness to foreign capital.

Considering the short-term low base and uncertainties ahead, the high growth rate of China's FDI may not sustain, said Liu. "Yet China will remain attractive to foreign investors as the country continues to push forward reform and opening-up."

Looking ahead, China has made great efforts to lure more global investors to its massive domestic market by widening market access and improving the business environment.

In January, a revised industry catalog that opens up more sectors for foreign investors came into effect, encouraging more foreign capital to pump into high-end manufacturing.

Other measures included further implementing the pre-establishment national treatment plus negative list management system, accelerating the implementation of salient foreign-funded projects, and strengthening protection for foreign investment.
Many tourists flocked to Da Lat City in Vietnams Central Highlands for a four-day holiday weekend just to find themselves stuck in exhausting traffic jams and endless queues at local attractions.

Da Lat, located in Lam Dong Province, welcomed approximately 125,000 visits on Reunification Day (April 30), International Workers Day (May 1), and May 2, according to the provincial Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism.

The number of tourists during this years holiday, which ends on Monday, jumped threefold versus the same period of 2020 and 2.5 times more than 2019.

A woman is exhausted from waiting in front of a tourist attraction in Da Lat City, Vietnam, May 2, 2021. Photo: M. Vinh / Tuoi Tre

Major attractions including Datanla Waterfall, Lang Biang Mountain, and Valley of Love among others were overcrowded with visitors.

Operators of these venues stated that the number of visitors was double that of normal weekends.

People had to queue for about 30 minutes at the entrances to buy tickets, they added.

People wait to buy tickets at the entrance of Datanla Waterfall in Da Lat City, Lam Dong Province, Vietnam, May 2, 2021. Photo: Duc Tho / Tuoi Tre

We had encountered traffic jams on multiple streets before reaching the Valley of Love," Nguyen Thanh Binh, a tourist from Ho Chi Minh City, complained.

"We wound up being stuck at the venues parking lot and ticket booth.

Although the weather here is very pleasant, the entire trip is still exhausting to me.

At the Datanla Waterfall, the ticket area was already congested by 8:30 am, according to an employee.

Visitors wait for their turn to enter a tourist attraction in Da Lat City, Vietnam, May 2, 2021. Photo: M. Vinh / Tuoi Tre

Workers in Vietnam began their four-day holiday marking Reunification Day and International Workers' Day on Friday.

Due to a surge in travel, most Da Lat-bound holidaymakers from Ho Chi Minh City spent more than 17 hours in their vehicles to reach the destination.

It normally takes a maximum of seven hours to travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Lat by car or bus.

People wait to buy tickets at the entrance of Datanla Waterfall in Da Lat City, Lam Dong Province, Vietnam, May 2, 2021. Photo: Duc Tho / Tuoi Tre

People wait to buy tickets at the entrance of Datanla Waterfall in Da Lat City, Lam Dong Province, Vietnam, May 2, 2021. Photo: Duc Tho / Tuoi Tre

A young boy waits for his turn to enter a tourist attraction in Da Lat City, Vietnam, May 2, 2021. Photo: M. Vinh / Tuoi Tre

Truc Lam Zen Monastery in Da Lat City, Vietnam is filled with visitors, May 2, 2021. Photo: Duc Tho / Tuoi Tre

Visitors have a picnic by Xuan Huong Lake in Da Lat City, Vietnam, May 2, 2021. Photo: Duc Tho / Tuoi Tre

Xuan Huong Lake in Da Lat City, Vietnam is overcrowded with tourists, May 1, 2021. Photo: Duc Tho / Tuoi Tre

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Non-essential businesses in central Da Nang City and south-central Khanh Hoa Province must be shut down as the two Vietnamese localities ramp up their prevention against COVID-19 transmission.

In Da Nang, karaoke parlors, bars, discos, game centers, pedestrian streets, and night markets have been shuttered from 0:00 on Monday until further notice by the municipal Peoples Committee.

Like Da Nang, in addition to the six aforementioned types of business, pubs, massage services, and spas in Khanh Hoa have been suspended from operations from 6:00 pm on Sunday.

Local authorities also banned public activities gathering a large crowd.

Previously, at a meeting on national COVID-19 prevention and control on Sunday, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh said he had received reports from local people and the press criticizing that Da Nang, Khanh Hoa, and southern Ba Ria - Vung Tau Province had not strictly implemented disease control regulations, especially face-mask and public-distance rules.

Da Nang and Khanh Hoa have recorded no local infections in the recent COVID-19 resurgence in Vietnam.

The Southeast Asian country announced the first six local infections in over a month on Thursday, according to the Ministry of Healths data.

It confirmed seven additional domestic cases on Friday, three on Saturday, and another eight on Sunday.

The ministry has registered 2,962 coronavirus patients, including 1,595 community-cased cases, as of Monday morning.

Recoveries have reached 2,549 while 35 patients have died so far, most having suffered from other medical conditions.

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Vietnamese State President Nguyen Xuan Phuc has requested relevant agencies to grant a university student the martyr title for sacrificing his own life to save his three friends from drowning, according to the Vietnam Government Portal.

State President Phuc on Sunday extended his condolences to the family of Nguyen Van Nha, 23, who hailed from the north-central province of Nghe An and studied at the University of Sciences - Hue University in central Thua Thien - Hue Province.

The Vietnamese leader asked local authorities to carry out necessary procedures to honor Nha with the Bravery Order, which is given to individuals who have taken brave acts to save people or property of the state and the people, as well as recognizing him as a martyr.

He also asked the Nghe An and Thua Thien - Hue Province administrations and the board of the University of Sciences - Hue University for providing support for Nhas family.

On April 30, a group of students from Hue University, including Nha, took a swim at a beach in Phu Vang District, Thua Thien - Hue Province.

As three girls were swept away by strong waves and began to drown, Nha rushed to save the victims.

After bringing his friends to safety, Nha was washed away and drowned due to exhaustion.

His funeral was organized at his home in Nghe An Province on Sunday afternoon.

The University of Sciences - Hue University will organize a ceremony to pay tribute to the young hero on campus at 7:00 pm on Tuesday.

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Amazing Race Australia host Beau Ryan is a guest host on Studio 10 for the time being while Tristan MacManus takes parental leave.

Beau Ryan said: Im super pumped to be joining Sarah and the gang as well as helping out my good mate Tristan. Studio 10 have been great to me so cant wait to see what well get up to.

While our favourite Irish morning show host, Tristan MacManus, is at home taking some parental leave, weve called on none other than Beau Ryan, to keep his seat warm.

Fresh from traipsing around the country for The Amazing Race Australia, Beau will bring his trademark charisma, unpredictability, and stellar hosting skills to Studio 10 starting today.

Just in case things get too unpredictable, OG co-host Sarah Harris will be by his side. And, as always, Angela Bishop will dish all the entertainment goss and Narelda Jacobs is on hand to deliver all the headlines you need to know.

8am weekdays on 10.

Related
The opening scene of new SBS documentary series is chilling stuff.

Its a call to Triple 000 in which a man calmly tells the operator, Ive killed my ex-partner. Im pretty sure shes dead. Shes not moving at all.

This is a 3 part series on domestic violence, which investigative journalist Jess Hill tells us is a crisis in Australia.

Or in the words of another unidentified male, I just snapped and said to her, See What You Made Me Do.

SBS has a long track record in event documentaries on big social themes such as immigration, poverty, mental health and more. Given the life and death subject, this could be the most important yet.

According to data, on average, one woman a week is killed by a current or former partner in Australia and most Australians who experience domestic abuse will never report it and their abusers will never be called to account.

Hill has been writing on the subject for the past 6 years, with this Northern Pictures series based on her book of the same name.

Episode one profiles women who are victims of domestic abuse, and several experts who are there to help.

It only took Jessica 10 minutes on a dating app to connect with the man who would destroy her life. She bravely details his use of coercive control, first via sexting and talking dirty but then to a litany of steps around her self-esteem, finances, home access, threats and more. Technology facilitated a system of entrapment to the point of her becoming a psychiatric patient. She was unable to work, suffered panic attacks and incapable of forming relationships.

Its quite heartbreaking as her mother describes the change in her daughter as catastrophic.

It changed her core.

But there are some good men ready to help, including former policemen who work in surveillance to reveal trackers on cars, spyware on phones, hidden cameras in the home -all unnerving tech that tracks the every move of vulnerable women.

Boyd Unwin, who describes himself as the father who lost his daughter, tells the tragic tale of the murder of daughter Katie Haley, when her partner attacked and killed her because he thought she would leave him. Katies sister Bianca also reveals how the man monitored her whereabouts through social media.

Boyd recalls the man assuring him, Ive never touched her and I never would.

This is 6 days before he beat her head in, he adds.

Finally there is a case in action, with a (pixellated) woman ready to flee her husband. She is advised by experienced counsellors in a safe room, concealed in a shopping centre. As she reveals her brave plan to escape danger, it moves Jess Hill to tears.

I know it could be dangerous but I have no other option, the woman admits.

While there is little explanation for what drives men to behave like this, further episodes will hear from perpetrators and the people working with them to curb their behaviours. I wonder too about domestic violence in same-sex relationships, however theres little doubt the numbers are overwhelmingly men as perpetrators against women.

Full marks to SBS for undertaking the subject (the last profile one was by Sarah Ferguson for ABC). The series will be accompanied by other SBS programming and online resources as part of Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month.

8:30pm Wednesday on SBS / NITV.

1800 RESPECT

Telephone: 1800 737 732

Web: 1800RESPECT.org.au

Kids Helpline

Telephone: 1800 55 1800

Web: kidshelpline.com.au

Mens Referral Service

Telephone: 1300 766 491

Web: ntv.org.au

MensLine Australia

Telephone: 1300 789 978

Web: mensline.org.au

Lifeline

Telephone: 13 11 14

Web: www.lifeline.org.au

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International aid to alleviate India's dire oxygen shortage arrived in the South Asian nation on Sunday, as its coronavirus death toll climbed to a grim new record.

The country of 1.3 billion reported 3,689 coronavirus deaths on Sunday -- another grim daily record, with nearly 400,000 new cases of Covid-19 registered across India.

Surges in Brazil and Canada have also highlighted the persistent threat of the pandemic, with the global death toll approaching 3.2 million even as many nations ramp up vaccination drives.

India expanded its vaccination programme to all adults on Saturday, but many of its states are struggling with shortages despite an export freeze for shots produced domestically.

The latest surge in deaths came as medical equipment from abroad -- including oxygen-generation plants -- was flown into the capital New Delhi as part of a huge international effort.

"People are sometimes dying in front of the hospitals. They have no more oxygen. Sometimes (they are dying) in their cars," said Germany's ambassador to India, Walter J. Lindner, as 120 ventilators arrived late Saturday.

Long queues were seen at vaccination centres in Indian cities this weekend, with people desperate to be inoculated against a disease that has overwhelmed the healthcare system as well as crematoriums and graveyards.

Social media platforms have been flooded with pleas from people looking for oxygen cylinders, medicines and hospital beds as the Covid-19 wave causes widespread shortages.

The United States, Russia and Britain sent emergency supplies including oxygen generators, face masks and vaccines.

Aid from France reached India on Sunday, including eight oxygen generator plants and 28 ventilators, adding to the ventilators from Germany that arrived the previous night.

The UK, which has already sent 495 oxygen concentrators and 200 ventilators, said it was sending an further 1,000 oxygen ventilators.

A group of British doctors also staged their own intervention by offering long-distance telemedicine from Britain to take the pressure off their Indian colleagues and allow them to concentrate on Covid patients.

Story continues

New Delhi, one of the hardest-hit parts of India, extended its lockdown by a week on Saturday, and the eastern state of Odisha has also ordered a shutdown.

Anthony Fauci, the top US pandemic advisor, said in comments published Saturday that the whole of India should go into lockdown to fight this wave.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government has resisted imposing a national shutdown but many states have imposed heavy restrictions.

A growing list of countries have cut flights from India, with Nigeria on Sunday banning entry to all travellers who have been in the country in the last two weeks, though Nigerians and those transiting in India will be exempt.

Alarm bells are also ringing in other countries in densely populated South Asia.

In Sri Lanka daily infections hit a record on Saturday, with authorities imposing further curbs on movement and activities in parts of the island nation.

"We could face an India-type crisis very soon unless we arrest the current trend of infections," said chief epidemiologist Sudath Samaraweera.

'We're tired and exhausted'

Known global infections are approaching 152 million, and fresh waves have also shaken many countries in the Americas.

Brazil, the worst-hit Latin American nation, has crossed 400,000 Covid-19 deaths -- second only to the United States -- with many of its hospitals pushed to the brink of collapse.

And in Canada, the epicentre is in the most populous province Ontario, where the surge has been so intense that the government sent in the military and the Red Cross to help care for critical patients.

Ontario's healthcare system is near breaking point, said intensive care nurse Farial Faquiry at Toronto's Humber River Hospital.

"We're stretched thin," Faquiry told AFP.

"We're tired and exhausted. Just exhausted."

Party-goers revolt

Although the Covid-19 threat remains in sharp focus in crisis spots around the world, some countries continue to make progress in dealing with the pandemic.

Saudi Arabia said it will permit citizens immunised against Covid-19 to travel abroad from May 17.

And South Africa, the worst-hit nation on the African continent said it was due to take delivery of the first batch of its 4.5 million Pfizer vaccines.

Populations in many countries, meanwhile, are growing weary of virus measures.

Anti-restriction protesters gathered in several European countries on Saturday, including Finland, Sweden, Belgium and Germany.

Belgian police arrested 132 people as they used tear gas and water cannon to break up a banned anti-lockdown party in a Brussels park on the weekend, an official report said Sunday.

One partygoer was knocked out by a water cannon and 14 others were slightly injured -- including one struck by a police horse -- as riot police brutally dispersed the party on Saturday in scenes echoing a similar gathering in the park a month before.

In France, too, hundreds of people flouted a coronavirus curfew over the weekend with underground parties in at least two cities, while police managed to prevent organisers from staging a mass rave in Paris.

(AFP)
Evening Standard

As arguably the best active fighter in the world at present, pound-for-pound king Canelo has been one of the highest-profile critics of the recent trend of YouTubers, celebrities and other sport stars competing in professional boxing, citing the dangers involved in the lucrative bouts. Canelo appeared suitably unimpressed during the bout that saw Mayweather - the only fighter ever to inflict a professional defeat upon Mexicos four-weight world champion, back in 2013 - fail to secure a knockout or stoppage and instead be taken the distance by Logan Paul in only the latters second fight, leading to no winner being declared in the absence of any judges.
Skygazers can look forward to seeing several shooting stars on Wednesday night, as the Earth passes through the dust left over from Halleys Comet.

The Eta Aquariid meteor shower is expected to peak on the night of May 5, with up to 50 meteors per hour, and will be visible until the early morning of May 6.

This celestial display is associated with the Halleys Comet, officially designated 1P/Halley, which orbits the sun once every 76 years.

(PA Graphics)

Anna Ross, an astronomer at the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, told the PA news agency: As both the Earth and Halleys Comet have elliptical orbits around the Sun, these two intersect twice per year.

This causes not only the Eta Aquariids but also the Orionids meteor shower in October.

The Eta Aquariids takes its name from the constellation of Aquarius in the southern hemisphere, where the shooting stars appear to originate from.

Meteoroids from Halleys Comet strike the Earths atmosphere at an approximate speed of 150,000 miles per hour (240,000kph), burning up in the process.

While the Eta Aquariids is active from late April to near the end of May, Ms Ross said the best time to see it will be at dawn on May 6.

Ms Ross told PA: The meteor shower is visible from the 19th of April until the 28th of May this year with the best night to view the shower being the night of the 5th-6th of May, when up to 50 meteors per hour will be visible.

However, this is a trickier one to spot as, despite meteors being visible all over the sky, the radiant (the easiest region to see them) will be only rising in the early hours of the morning here in the UK.

She advises getting far away from all artificial lights to increase the chances of catching a glimpse of the shooting stars on a moonlit night.

Ms Ross said: For the best chances to spot the Eta Aquariids find a dark area of clear sky and allow around 20 minutes to let your eyes adapt to the dark.

It may also be advisable to lie down as you may be looking up for a long time.
Southwest China's Yunnan province has achieved remarkable results in the conservation of golden hair monkeys as the population of the species increased to more than 3,300 covering 23 varieties.

This was revealed by a green book on the outcomes of conservation efforts involving the endangered species in the province. It documents the entire process of comprehensive and systematic monitoring and evaluation of Yunnan golden hair monkeys, according to the provincial forestry and grassland bureau.

The Yunnan golden hair monkeys are listed as national first-class rare and endangered protected species in China and as vulnerable on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. The monkeys live in the mountainous forests of the province and the neighboring Tibet Autonomous Region.

There were around 1,000 to 1,500 Yunnan golden hair monkeys of 13 varieties in 1996, and 3,000 individuals of 18 varieties in 2006, said the bureau.

"The protection of Yunnan golden monkeys has accumulated experience and set a good example for the conservation of flagship species," said Xiang Ruwu with the bureau.
The University of North Georgia's (UNG) partnerships with military academies around the world continue to bring opportunities for growth for UNG cadets and international cadets.

This spring, UNG welcomed the first two cadets from Korean Military Academy (KMA) and two cadets from Romania for a semester. Two cadets from Taiwan also are studying at UNG for four years.

On the other hand, three UNG cadets spent the spring semester at a pair of universities in Taiwan.

This fall another exchange will happen. Two UNG cadets will head to KMA and two Taiwanese cadets come to UNG.

"They have the opportunity to learn about cultures, how their host countries teach military science and how each nation supports one another," said retired Sgt. Maj. Terry Baumann, assistant director of global military programs at UNG. "The cadets have the opportunity to create lifelong friendships, which may result in future collaboration after graduation."

Addilyn Koonce, a sophomore UNG cadet from Stuttgart, Germany, studied political science this spring at Fu Hsing Kang College (FHK), National Defense University, in Taiwan. Koonce, who is pursuing a degree in modern languages with a concentration in Chinese for global professionals, has been excited to take in the Taiwanese culture with fellow UNG cadet Kobe Holland, who was in the political science classes at FHK with Koonce.

"The 24/7 immersion has been the best learning experience for me," Koonce said. "It forces you to use the Chinese you're learning in the classroom in real-world settings."

Koonce's goal is to be a translator or linguist in the Army, FBI or CIA.

"This experience has solidified that this is the path I want to go on," Koonce said.

Holland, a sophomore from Hoschton, Georgia, pursuing a degree in strategic and security studies, appreciated the Chinese language skills and other experiences he gained.

"We're getting that in-depth cultural experience," Holland said.

Trevor Galyon, a UNG sophomore pursuing a degree in modern languages with a concentration in Chinese for global professionals, studied at the Republic of China Military Academy (ROCMA) this semester. The Pine Mountain, Georgia, native was grateful for his experience at ROCMA, which was UNG's first international military academy partner when the schools' relationship began in December 2012.

"I pick up a lot of Chinese words much faster than I normally would," Galyon said.

For Junhyuk Ko, a senior from KMA pursuing a degree in English, the chance to practice his language skills at UNG was invaluable. As a Korean cadet who had spent three years living in Thailand at international schools before college, he was excited to visit the United States for the first time.

Ko took advanced leadership, news writing and reporting, and cellphone photography courses at UNG.

"I like to go abroad and learn new things," Ko said.

For Junseong Ham, a senior from KMA pursuing a degree in history, this was his third time in the U.S. He took English composition, world regional geography, and art appreciation courses at UNG.

"Living abroad is really helpful for broadening our perspective of the world," Ham said.

The visiting international cadets were required to arrive in the U.S. with a negative COVID-19 test three days prior to arrival at UNG. Cadets received in-depth instruction on COVID-19 protocols and rules during their orientation prior to the start of the semester. UNG cadets abroad received the same instructions and were required to attend a pre-departure briefing on COVID-19 protocols.
As a teacher of Spanish at the University of North Georgia (UNG), Dr. Rosaria Meek likes to blend compassion and a joy of learning into the classroom and in leadership.

She teaches a variety of lower- and upper-level Spanish classes and has been teaching online eCampus classes since 2015. She also designed and taught Spanish courses for professions, including business Spanish, medical Spanish, and Spanish for law enforcement.

"My teaching is guided by the principles of the LEAP initiative. I have implemented high-impact educational practices such as service learning, learning communities, collaborative assignments, and diverse experiences," said Meek, who is also certified to teach in various fields in Italy.

She said the pedagogical practices are designed to engage students to become more civic-minded and ethical global citizens and develop intellectual and practical skills aimed at solving real-world problems using critical and creative thinking.

"In the classroom, I foster a mindful community of learners that powerfully promotes agency by creating networks of support in which students feel more comfortable making mistakes and learning from one another in a safe space," she said.

For Meek, teaching and learning are intricately connected.

"I want to instill in my students the joy of lifelong learning. I enjoy not only encouraging them to further their education but pursue further educational opportunities myself.

In 2020, she completed a course of study in Compassionate Integrity Training (CIT) offered by Life University. CIT is an international program that combines cutting-edge developments in the fields of neuroscience, psychology, trauma-informed care, peace and conflict studies, and contemplative science.

In 2012, Meek was elected as the president of the Georgia Association for Women in Higher Education (GAWHE). Part of the American Council of Education Women's Network system, GAWHE is a nonprofit volunteer association focused on inclusivity and cultivating a culture of care and advancement for women in higher education.

Her diverse experiences inform her holistic approach to education that promotes an understanding of common humanity and interdependence, necessary skills to develop intercultural competence. In every facet of her work and life, she strives to make an impact to integrate different values, beliefs, and cultures for the benefit of the many.

She earned her master's degree in foreign languages and literature from the University of Palermo in Italy and her Ph.D. in romance languages from the University of Georgia.
On May 1, the United States began to withdraw its troops from Afghanistan. In an interview with Vestnik Kavkaza, Afghan historian, chairman of the Association for the Promotion and Development of Youth of Afghanistan Tamim Ehlas noted that until the structure of negotiations between the government and the Taliban terrorist organization banned in Russia is changed, talented representatives of the Afghan people, long-term peace in Afghanistan will not come. The United States will play an active role, as it is difficult to maintain financial stability without American money. At the same time, Russia together with Pakistan, Iran and China should become guarantors of the truce. A unilateral withdrawal of the US Armed Forces will do nothing. The positive signal in all of this is that "everyone is tired of fighting," and therefore a truce-peace is inevitable.

- On May 1, the United States officially began the withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan. Do you think this will lead to stability on Afghan soil and in Central Asia?

- Before answering this question, I want to say that the Afghan war is one of the longest and bloodiest wars in the history of mankind. Afghanistan is a crossroads where the interests of many powers collided. Regarding your question, for 40 years there has been a war with which the United States was directly linked. There is a version about the withdrawal of Soviet troops from Afghanistan, and many experts say about it, that in fact it was a provocation on the part of the Americans. They provoked the leadership of the then USSR, Brezhnev and Ustinov. National Security Advisor Carter famously said that "we created a trap for Russia so that they have their own Vietnam."

- You probably mean Zbigniew Brzezinski?

- When the question arose about the withdrawal of Soviet troops from Afghanistan, there were good conditions for reconciliation and peace. But, unfortunately, because of America, this plan failed, including the UN Special Representative. During that period, it was possible to preserve all the institutions of the state, there would be peace and stability. In the aftermath of September 11, the United States accused the Taliban in power of sponsoring the terrorist organization Al-Qaeda, banned in Russia, and providing cover for Bin Laden. This became the basis for the introduction of American troops on September 12, the day after September 11. The Security Council immediately decided that they could bomb the Taliban positions. The Americans slowly began bombing the positions of the Taliban, and their first troops, the Marines from the Arabian Peninsula, captured the province of Kandahar. This is how the invasion of our country by American troops began. Then came the next Security Council decision on the NATO Coalition Armed Forces (ISAF), and NATO also sent troops into Afghanistan.

- It turns out that if the Americans had not entered the territory of Afghanistan on September 12, there would have been complete order and a normal situation?

- Yes. A normal environment would be. There is now no evidence that Afghans were involved in 9/11. They brought in troops only to catch Bin Laden. But bin Laden was not caught, in May 2011 he was caught and killed in northern Pakistan. During the invasion of Afghanistan, they killed Al-Qaeda leader Abulfaz in Kandahar province, another Bin Laden adviser named Abu Mehmed in Khost province, and Taliban warlord Daddulah. It was their only achievement, but they never caught Bin Laden.

Although those who were involved in the terrorist attacks were not citizens of Afghanistan, but of Saudi Arabia.

- Right. I do not know exactly how reliable this is, but they say that the Taliban offered the Americans in some Islamic state to organize a trial and extradite bin Laden to be tried in accordance with Sharia law. The Americans did not agree to this proposal of the Taliban. And for almost 20 years, American troops have been in Afghanistan. During this period, the Americans spent somewhere more than $ 800 billion.

- Almost a trillion.

- Almost a trillion. Of these, $ 137 billion went to the infrastructure of Afghanistan, $ 86 billion - to create the Afghan army. Unfortunately, the money that NATO countries have spent is taxpayer money. There was a lot of corruption in spending this money. Here, not only the top of my country was involved, but also foreigners. They set up various companies to waste this money. I can say directly that the money did not go as intended.

After these events, the Americans needed to organize the leadership of Afghanistan. They organized a conference in Bonn, where an interim government was created, headed by Hamid Karzai. Ministerial portfolios were divided among different forces of the mujahideen. Unfortunately, there was no competence and will of the Afghan people. If during the Bonn Conference they had included the Taliban in the government, I think they would not have had to spend so much money, there would not have been so many casualties among the civilian population of Afghanistan. During the entire campaign, the Americans lost 3,500 troops, and more than 25,000 were injured. According to many experts, these figures are underestimated.

- By the way, you mentioned the Taliban. This is an important issue because the Taliban have a lot of support among the population. Do you think it is possible to build the future of Afghanistan without taking into account the opinion of the Taliban?

- As an Afghan, I want to answer this question in the following way: all the parties that were involved in the 20-year war are not supported by the people, not one of them. It's true. The mujahideen, the Taliban, and other forces that fought in Afghanistan have no justification in the eyes of the people.

I also wanted to add on the previous question. At the Bonn Conference, the Americans chose those people who could not bring happiness to the Afghan people, did not improve the country's economy. Now the international community is proud that after the introduction of US troops and NATO in Afghanistan, human rights, women's rights, freedom of speech are respected, and the press is free there. Indeed, there is progress. Thousands of schools operate in the country, there are changes in the tax system. The current President of Afghanistan, Ashraf Ghani, has made very big steps in the economic direction. This cannot be denied. But before him, the former elite was highly corrupt. They used the money allocated by the USA in their own interests. The invasion of foreign troops for any country is not a plus, but compared to the pro-American government, the power that was during the introduction of the USSR's troops, led by Najibullah, was not corrupt. There was no corruption. The president had a five-room apartment, which is still located in the 2nd microdistrict of the city of Kabul. He had no bank accounts.

- Was life safer in Afghanistan?

- And how. Then there were no kidnappings, it was safe, there was a strong army. We had nearly 500 military aircraft. The USSR spent a lot of money to create our professional army. In the region, after Turkey, the Afghan army was the most combat-ready. Unfortunately, due to the actions of international and regional players who were promoting their geopolitical, military and economic interests, the country was destroyed, the entire army was destroyed, all officers and soldiers were left to fend for themselves.

- Do you think the Americans will have time to come out before September 11, as Joe Biden plans?

- I am very worried about one statement by Joe Biden, made on April 13 at the White House. Do you know what he says? He says: "The withdrawal of our troops does not depend on the situation in Afghanistan." This sounds very strange. He says: "We do not want our soldiers to stay there until the end because of the situation in Afghanistan."

- That is, come what may, we still leave?

- Yes. These are the words of Biden that worry us very much. History repeats itself. By decision of the Security Council, they invaded Afghanistan. Now they are leaving, which casts doubt on the fate of Ghani and our government, their achievements, the army on which they spent their money. I think that for the withdrawal of troops, an international guarantee is needed with the participation of the UN, the United States, Pakistan, Iran, India and Russia, so that civil war does not break out again. This is not beneficial to either Pakistan or Russia. As a great power on a global scale, Russia is not indifferent to what is happening in Afghanistan. Russia really wants to put an end to drug trafficking from Afghanistan to Central Asia, to Eastern Europe. Russia wants the Taliban not to provoke threats to it.

- As far as I understand, the Taliban, unlike other organizations such as Al-Qaeda or the terrorist organization ISIS, banned in Russia, does not have the ideology of building a world caliphate. That is, they are limited to the territory of Afghanistan ...

- Yes, fortunately it is. You probably know that peace talks with the Taliban have already been held in Moscow twice with the participation of a government delegation. It should also be noted that Pakistan is the main patron of the Taliban. It cannot be denied. But I think that Pakistan's position will also change, because now the military-political situation inside Pakistan is not so smooth. In the states where Pashtuns live, there are protests over human rights violations. And inside Pakistan there are terrorist attacks against government and state forces. Pakistan wants Kabul to have such a government that would take into account the interests of Pakistan. What are Pakistan's interests? Pakistan's interests are to connect Pakistan's trade and economic relations with the Caspian region, with the Black Sea, so that Pakistan becomes a transit country for both gas and oil. I recently read that the Taliban, in their 13-page strategy, stated that they want maximum power. They consider themselves the winner of this war. But I think we need to negotiate. These peace talks, which were held in Qatar, in Moscow, in Tashkent and now in Istanbul, will reduce the dispute between the hostile parties. For the first time, hostile forces are sitting at the same table. From my point of view, this is progress. The Afghan problem is our internal problem, and we ourselves must get out of this situation and solve this problem. But, unfortunately, in these negotiations there is no will of my people.

- Do you mean that the Taliban and the government that are sitting at the negotiating table do not fully represent the interests of the people?

- Sure. They have no authority to make decisions for us. In the agreement that was signed between the Taliban and the United States - what was the will of the people? We absolutely did not participate in drafting the text of this agreement.

- It turns out, on the one hand, there is a puppet government of Afghanistan, which was installed by the Americans. On the other hand, there are the Taliban, who seized power by force of arms. And they do not fully represent the interests of the Afghans. Do you think the Taliban do not represent the interests of the people, well, at least the Pashtuns?

- I would not agree. I am a supporter of the preservation of the current government and the republic. Because the ruling forces want the republic to take into account the interests of all groups and nationalities, this may not be the case in another system. Therefore, we came from the monarchy to the republic and the presidential system of government. I think the problem is not so much in the Taliban and the withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan, as in the possible termination of financial aid.

- That is, the main problem of Afghanistan is the lack of economic resources?

- The backbone of today's government is the United States. Even if the government is 50-60% composed of the Taliban, they will also rely on the United States for some time, when there will be economic transformations. I cannot imagine our national army without America's help. Even for one bottle of water money is paid from abroad. On the other hand, a withdrawal would be beneficial. We will create our own army, independently raise our economy. The current president of Afghanistan is a good manager. By the way, he worked in Russia, participated in the creation of the banking system in Russia. Afghanistan's biggest problem is water. He tries to solve it. He has ambitious plans.

- What do you think, on what conditions can the Taliban and the government agree? Is there a risk that when the Americans leave, the Taliban will be able to seize power?

- I think that the Taliban will not agree to this, it is not in favor of the Taliban.

- Why?

- Because foreign states will make concessions to the Taliban. They have palaces that they have built for themselves. These are not the mujahideen who run through the mountains and deserts, they are already sitting at their computers.

- Have they become glamorous?

- They became glamorous. Therefore, everywhere, when it comes to negotiations, they are right there. And the strangest thing is that there are no professional diplomats or professional politicians at these negotiations.

- What is it connected with?

- This is ambition, this is a corrupt political system. There are very competent specialists in Afghanistan. Let at least one teacher or mothers, fathers, whose children have suffered, participate in these negotiations. For 20 years, Americans have said that 21,000 civilians have died. I absolutely disagree, the numbers are much higher. They bombed without trial or investigation. From drones. In one night, four of my nephews - they were wonderful young people - they shot. They were not connected at all with any government bodies or with the Taliban.

- Awful ...

- Yes, it's monstrous. So there is great hope for Russia that Russia will be very actively involved in these negotiation processes. And Russia would gradually invest in our economy. Russia is closer to us. America is about 10 thousand km away.

- Russia is almost a neighbor if you take the CSTO border.

- Yes. We have colossal experience of contacts with Russia both in the field of education and in the field of economics. Russians know all the mineral resources. Which mountain, which province has diamonds, gold, gas, and oil. Russia could participate in tenders. Russia has a tremendous role to play in these peace negotiations. God forbid if civil war breaks out there again. Yes, indeed the Taliban have a lot of control. Along with them, there are other terrorist groups, like ISIS, and this is dangerous for us, and for Russia, and for the countries of Central Asia. Peace talks will not yield results until there is regional agreement - these are Pakistan, Iran, India, Russia, China. China, by the way, has now also invested a lot of money in the Afghan economy. They won a tender for mining in Afghanistan. The world will benefit everyone. There is also one question that interests everyone. Despite the fact that the coalition forces of the NATO countries were in Afghanistan, the production of drugs did not stop.

- It even grew ...

- This is a very strange question. And now the Americans are saying: "We have a common interest with Russia in Afghanistan." Do you know which one? End drug trafficking.

- You know, there is such a proverb: "The Moor has done his job, the Moor can leave." That is, they entered Iraq allegedly because of Saddam Hussein, because of chemical weapons, in fact, the target was oil. And to Afghanistan, as it turns out, because of drugs.

- Because of drugs and bin Laden. And they did not find bin Laden in Afghanistan either, they found him in Pakistan. Pakistani policy in these relations is rather strange. Much now also depends on Pakistan. Recently, their prime minister came, the minister of defense was in Afghanistan. They say that even we will help the Afghans in the peace process. Let's hope so.

- Maybe because of the support of Pakistan, the Taliban sometimes behave uncompromisingly? That is, Pakistan is pressing, saying "don't make concessions"?

- May be. But the Taliban will compromise anyway. Once, for two or three days, there was a ceasefire in all the provinces of Afghanistan. The Taliban say they did this to let everyone know that they are not dependent on Pakistan.

- Your forecast, will the Americans really be able to fulfill their task? Since May 1, they have already begun the withdrawal of troops; by September 11, this process will end. What will happen when the Americans leave? How will the situation develop further?

- You know, before September 11 you will have to sit and negotiate a hundred times. The Americans have a very strong influence on the negotiation process - a lot depends on them.

The Taliban are now preparing their new proposals for talks in Istanbul. They are asking to release another 7 thousand prisoners and remove their leaders from the "black list".

- Afghanistan now, in fact, resembles Libya. Active hostilities have been going on in Libya for the last two years, but quite recently everyone there realized that there was nowhere else to go. Neither side can win further.

- I am surprised that my poor people have endured this for more than 40 years. Our country has really been turned into an experimental base. Both regional players and international players. I am optimistic and think that the civil war will not start again. On the other hand, I want to say that now Afghanistan is not the Afghanistan of the 90s. He has changed a lot. In Afghanistan, in 20 years, a lot of educated young people have appeared. These are masters, candidates of science. There are 110 private universities in Afghanistan alone, and in the 90s there were no such universities at all. I travel to the provinces and meet people, students, etc. English is spreading a lot. Our association also promotes the Russian language along with English, German and French. There are 45 TV channels. There are direct roads from the villages to the capital. People can come to the capital or to the centers of the provinces and study, work. Therefore, the Taliban cannot but take into account that the population and worldview are already different.

- That is, those installations that were previously broadcast by the Taliban do not work for this generation already ...

- TikTok, Instagram, Facebook have played a huge role in recent years. Even old people have telephones. They read the news, collate, compare. It is now very fashionable for parents to have their children educated. This was not the case. The most important thing is to change the negotiation mechanism. As long as there are people there who are sitting in Kabul, who have money and power, they will send their nephew, their son, to negotiations. This is a kindergarten. The fate of an entire nation is being decided. How can you trust such a diplomatic mission to some illiterate boys. Our Foreign Ministry must wake up. I hope that Russia will help the process of Afghanistan becoming a member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, now it is there as an observer, but it is better if it becomes a permanent member.

- Moreover, the main goal of the organization is the fight against terrorism.

- And we could negotiate directly with the Pakistanis with the help and mediation of Russia. Equally. We need to work with the players in the region. Including with European countries. NATO and US members. Again, I repeat, Biden's words of April 13 at the White House make me very worried. They are incomprehensible to me. This is irresponsible. This in itself can ruin the entire negotiation process. "What's going on there is none of my business, I want to rid myself of this problem."

- Let's hope that you are mistaken, and Biden will still act responsibly, and the wishes that you indicated will be heard. And finally, not even 40 years later, but centuries later, because we know that Afghanistan was in a state of war almost from its birth. First with England, then with the Americans.
The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Russia went up by 8,489 in the past 24 hours to reach 4,831,744, the national anti-coronavirus crisis center told reporters on Monday, TASS reports.

The relative growth rate stands at 0.18%.

The lowest increase rates in the past 24 hours are reported from the Jewish Autonomous the Nenetsk and the Chukotsk Autonomous Regions (0% each), the Tyva, Altai and Magadan Regions (0.02%), the Murmansk, Sakhalin and Khabarovsk Regions (0.04%).

In particular, 704 cases were recorded in St. Petersburg followed by the Moscow Region (641), the Rostov Region (227), the Voronezh Region (150), the Nizhny Novgorod Region (147).
Businesses are still spending a lot on advertising on social media and search engines. This trend has yet to change as many Vietnamese companies consider these the main channels to reach customers.

Social media is still considered one of the main channels of access to customers. (Photo: Internet)

Social networks and search engines are two platforms that businesses consider to be highly effective in online advertising. Vietnamese businesses are spending a great deal on these two channels.

According to the Vietnam E-commerce Association (VECOM), the proportion of businesses using advertising on social networks continued to increase in 2020.

In the past four years, the growth of online advertising through two platforms, social networks and search engines, has surpassed the old forms of advertising. These are the two main methods that businesses consider to be the most effective channels to reach customers. However, ad spend rates on these two platforms have begun to diverge compared to a few years ago.

According to the survey, in 2020, up to 53% of enterprises in Vietnam advertised their websites and mobile applications through social networks. This rate increased by 4% compared to 49% in 2019. This is considered the main platform for many years that businesses prioritize the most.

Ranked second was advertising on search engines. However, the rate of advertising on search engines decreased from 33% in 2019 to 29% in 2020. This year was the first with a decline after many years of steady growth.

Advertising on newspapers and online newspapers inched up compared to 2019, with 14% and 15%, respectively. Meanwhile, advertising on television decreased slightly with 13%. Up to 24% of enterprises participating in the survey said they had not used any form of online advertising.

A highlight of the advertising market in 2020 is that the majority of businesses cut the cost of advertising through online means and mobile applications.

According to VECOM, 57% of businesses said they spent less than VND10 million on online advertising in 2020. The percentage of businesses spending over VND50 million (nearly $2,500) for advertising was only 10%. The main reason was the impact of Covid-19, which forced businesses to cut spending on advertising.

However, the percentage of businesses that highly value online advertising tools through social networks decreased to 41% in 2020, compared to 52% in 2018. Similarly, the effectiveness of online advertising tools through search engines in 2020 also decreased to 31% compared to 40% in 2018. A reason, according to experts, is that these channels are becoming more expensive.

In 2020, Hanoi and HCM City remained the two leading cities in terms of budget spending on online advertising activities. Accordingly, 35% of businesses in HCM City and 33% of businesses in Hanoi spent more than VND50 million on online advertising. The rate for the remaining provinces and cities in Vietnam was very low. This is consistent with the current difference of e-commerce development among localities.

Duy Vu

Vietnams social networks run race with the worlds technology giants Governments around the world are trying to restrain the power of technology giants, which presents a great opportunity for Vietnams social networks to establish their foothold with their own characteristics.
Many provinces have proposed building their own airports, but if there are high-speed rail routes, many people will not choose to fly a 300-500km distance.

High-speed rail is more convenient than air

In 2017, during a business trip in Japan, when moving from Tokyo to Osaka, Le Minh Tuan from Hanoi chose to take the Shinkansen high-speed train instead of a plane.

Although the flight time from Narita Airport (Tokyo) to Kansai International Airport (Osaka) is only 1.5 hours compared to 2.5 hours by Shinkansen, overall Shinkansen train is still convenient and more time saving than flying.

High-speed rail will attract passengers of airlines

Flight time only takes 1.5 hours but it takes time to go to the airport, check in and baggage consignment So the total time is longer than using Shinkansen high-speed rail. Shinkansen runs smoothly, has full services, and has wifi, so passengers can work on the train. The train operates absolutely punctually. There is no delay or flight cancellation like taking flights, Tuan said.

Tuan's choice is nothing new to people in developed countries. But in Vietnam, if traveling a distance of 600 km (from Hanoi to Hue or Da Nang), most people choose to fly because it is more convenient and much faster.

Because of the convenience of airlines, many provinces want to have airports to facilitate travel, attract investment, and promote socio-economic development, and tourism.

Ninh Binh province is located close to Hanoi, with a convenient highway system. The time to Hanois Noi Bai International Airport or the Tho Xuan airport (Thanh Hoa province) is only slightly more than one hour, but it still wants to build its own airport.

Many provinces have proposed having their own airports because there is no high-speed railway. However, if there is a high-speed railway system in the next 10 years, then many localities near Hanoi with the high-speed railway passing through will not need an airport.

General Director of the Vietnam Railway Corporation Vu Anh Minh said that when there is a railway with a speed of 200 km per hour or more, no one will fly from Hanoi to Vinh (Nghe An). At that time, railway stations will connect via roads, and people will just need to go to railway stations to take a trip.

Even for the long haul from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, which is now considered one of the four most air dynamic routes in the world, according to experts, when there is a North - South high-speed railway, the number of air passengers will significantly decrease.

Be cautious investing in airports

Can Tho airport

While many provinces want to build their own airports from now to 2050, only six out of the current 26 airports in the country are working at a profit, including Noi Bai, Tan Son Nhat, Da Nang, Cam Ranh, Lien Khuong, and Phu Bai. The remaining airports are operating at a loss.

Can Tho International Airport was built more than 10 years ago, but on its peak day, the airport only welcomes 10 flights. At the time this airport was built, the authorities identified that 12 provinces in the Mekong Delta with 20 million people needed to have a regional airport. But when it was put into operation, few people chose to travel by air.

Deputy Minister of Transport Nguyen Ngoc Dong noted that local governments must carefully calculate when building an airport because investment in airports is huge. If an airport does not operate fully, losses are obvious.

A developed country like Japan does not build many airports but instead focuses on developing high-speed rail. If compared with investment in the airport, construction of high-speed rail is more efficient.

High-speed railway required

According to Vietnams railway development strategy to 2020, with a vision to 2050, part of the North-South high-speed railway would be put into operation.

Under the plan, Vietnam would study the construction of a new high-speed railway line with the gauge of 1435 mm, prepare conditions for the construction of routes connecting Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, and the sections Hanoi - Vinh, Ho Chi Minh City - Nha Trang would be built first.

The consortium of TEDI - TRICC - TEDIS consultants assesses that by 2030, if Vietnam only focuses on investment in road, aviation, waterways and upgrading the existing railway, it will fail to meet transport demand.

The transport capacity then will lack about 100,000 passengers and 34,000 tons of cargo per day and night.

With the outstanding advantages of capacity and transport speed over medium and long distances (average annual carrying capacity of 100 -140 million passengers), high-speed rail fully meets the transport demand.

If there is a high-speed railway, the distribution of population will be more reasonable. People will not flock to major city centers such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, and localities will attract better investment, creating more jobs, and contributing to reasonable population allocation, reducing pressure on big cities.

The high-speed railway project is being studied by several ministries before it is submitted to the Government for consideration and then to the Politburo and the National Assembly for approval.

Previously, the Ministry of Transport submitted to the Prime Minister a pre-feasibility study report for the North-South high-speed railway project with a length of more than 1,500km passing through 20 provinces and cities, with total investment of $58.71 billion, designed speed of 350 km/h, operating speed of 320km/h, and divided into two phases of construction.

Phase 1 is scheduled in 2020-2032 with a total capital of $24.7 billion and phase 2 is in 2032-2050, with total capital of $34 billion.

Vu Diep

Solving VN railways' construction deadlock Integrating national and inter-regional railways with an urban transport system is a direction that can be chosen by megacities like Hanoi.
Xue Qiang, 35, graduated from Xi'an Technological University with a master degree in economics in 2012.

Almost without hesitation, he decided to go back home to take over the "family business" in the rural areas of Xi'an, capital of northwest China's Shaanxi Province.

His father, Xue Tuo, takes care of over 660 hectares of land and is a famous farmer in his hometown.

Now Xue Qiang runs an agricultural machinery cooperative and the traditional farm work of plowing, sowing, spraying the pesticide and harvesting is completely mechanized and can be completed in just nine days.

Xue Qiang also takes advantage of his educational background in farming. "I do maths to make decisions. For instance, I compare the cost between planting wheat and other crops, the cost of upgrading machinery and the estimated profit. My major helps me mitigate risks and make the right decision," said Xue Qiang.

Last year, wheat fields managed by Xue Qiang's cooperative achieved a yield of 5,250 kg per hectare, much higher than that in the surrounding areas.

In 2017, China proposed a rural vitalization strategy as a key move to accelerate the modernization of agriculture and rural areas, and has since adopted a host of policies to chart the roadmap for rural vitalization.

As the campaign goes deeper, more young, high-skilled personnel like Xue have been playing an important role in promoting modern agriculture and becoming new types of farmers. With professional skills and novel ideas of management, they are bringing new vitality to China's rural economic development.

Wang Qi, 28, is wowed at how his home village has transformed over the past decades.

Located in the remote areas of Shaanxi Province, Yuanjia Village only had 62 households in the late 1970s. Now it has grown into a famous tourist destination attracting over 5 million tourists a year. The annual per capita income of the village has surpassed 100,000 yuan (15,450 U.S. dollars).

"In 2019, the head of the villagers' committee called for the young generation to come back and 'explore new ways' to boost the development of the village, and I was lured back after months' consideration," said Wang.

The young people did bring the village a new look. They introduced popular food chain stores such as Starbucks and KFC and the move is well-received among young tourists.

The Starbucks coffeehouse was set in an old building of the Ming and Qing dynasties, said Wang, adding that the building's original appearance was preserved.

Ding Dan, a graduate student from the University of Liverpool, also decided to become a farmer after working several years in Shanghai's central business district.

His parents run a food-processing company with an annual output value of 200 million yuan, but they have not been supportive of his decision.

"In their view, being involved in agriculture is too laborious," said Ding.

Being a farmer is indeed a Herculean task. After failing to make a profit out of the land in the first year, Ding's company was shattered by extreme drought, flooding, plague of insects and low temperature in the next two years, taking a hit on the already untenable business.

But Ding eventually worked it out and in 2019, after two years of work in Shinao Township of Gao'an City, east China's Jiangxi Province, his 20-hectare land yielded 165,000 kg of rice.

Now Ding's company has created over 600 job positions and significantly raised the income of local farmers.

A law on the promotion of rural vitalization was recently adopted by the national legislature, providing the country a legal guarantee in pursuit of the rural vitalization strategy.

The law stipulates protecting the permanent basic cropland, building a system to ensure a steady increase in rural income, and strengthening the work involving rural talent.

Talent has always been placed in a prominent position in China's rural vitalization, which will provide ample space for Chinese youths to bring new technologies and concepts to the countryside and promote the local economy.

Huang Wenxin, a provincial agricultural official, said Jiangxi will further optimize the rural entrepreneurial environment, encourage and guide high-skilled personnel such as university graduates and retired soldiers to work in the rural areas.

"I hope more young people could join the mission of rural vitalization," said Xue Qiang.
Investors, from freelancers in Hanoi to sale officers in HCM City, have poured several million VND to several hundreds of million dong into Coolcat. About VND200 billion (nearly US$9 million) is likely to disappear.

Sang has transfered VND200 million to Coolcat's officer

An investor named Sang is seen smiling on his account on the Zalo app with his family members, but the owner is now in bad mood. Everything began with the collapse of Coolcat.

Sang has lost more than VND200 million since he joined Coolcat. He initially planned to withdraw the money and interest after 15 days. But things did not occur as he wanted: the trading floor collapsed 10 days after he put money into the account. The money was from a relative.

My wife and I now have to use money we have been saving for many years to build a house to pay to my relative. Meanwhile, we have to feed two children, Sang complained.

According to Sang, he remitted money to Coolcats officers twice, totaling VND200 million.

Why Coolcat? Sang said a co-worker at the office introduced Coolcat to him. Sangs wife tried to prevent him from making investment with such a big amount of money, but he ignored her advice.

The VND200 million amount, is a lot for him and can only be obtained after 2-3 years of working, he said.

We dare not inform my parents about the loss of money. They do field work in the countryside. We are afraid they will be shocked, he said.

Sang is a freelancer. He is a new member of a Zalo group of dozens of people who have lost money because of the trading floor's collapse.

The members have exchanged information since the collapse occurred and have told Sang to report this to the HCM City police. On April 27, Sang began writing the first denunciation.

While Sang is a freelancer and has an unstable income, Nam, another investor, has a stable income from a job in the tourism industry.

Forty-five days after joining Coolcat, Nam had already lost VND637 million by the time the trading floor collapsed.

On April 15, when other investors were worried because money had not poured into their accounts as usual, Nam managed to contact Coolcat and was reassured that Coolcat had temporarily stopped the app to serve the polices investigation.

A representative of the trading floor even tried to restore investors confidence by informing them that if investors did not withdraw money at that time, Coolcat would give $50 to each of them once they provided the ID numbers creating initial accounts.

Just after two hours of collecting ID numbers of the investors, all the bogus Zalo nicknames of Coolcats officers were locked. Investors never received the promised $50.

On April 19, Nam and many victims came to the HCM City Police to denounce the asset swindling and appropriations via Coolcat. Ironically, Coolcats officers and players contacted via Zalo chat. Coolcats bogus accounts are always on to send messages to players on the floor.

Nam has come forward and gathered 500 claims from victims with total damages worth VND200 billion.

In order to carry out insured transactions (100 percent of capital), investors have to spend enough money to reach a certain level among the insurance packages offered by Coolcat. There are six investment levels with the lowest at VND1.26 million and the highest at VND210 million, corresponding to incomes from VND60,000 to VND9 million per day.

A family in the north reported a loss of VND9 billion as all family members played on the floor, he said. As far as I know, another family in HCM City lost VND3 billion. Many people borrowed money from usurers and the black world to play on Coolcat. One man called me and said he wanted to commit suicide because of the loss of big money.

Signs of multi-level marketing

According to some analysts, this is a BO (binary option) investment mode. Players predict the ups and downs of bitcoins, gold and foreign currencies. They need to predict whether the prices will go up or down.

The results are announced after 30 seconds. If their predictions are exact, they get money, $0.1 at minimum, and if the answers are wrong, they lose the deposits.

Coolcats rules are as follows: investors get 73 percent, insurers 14 percent, analysts 10 percent and Coolcat 3 percent.

For example, when an investor places an order of $1 and wins, the total amount of money to be collected would be $2, including $1 worth of principal and $1 worth of interest. The profit would be shared as follows: $0.73 for the investor, $0.14 for insurance company, $0.1 for analysts and $0.03 for Coolcat.

In order to carry out insured transactions (100 percent of capital), investors have to spend enough money to reach a certain level among the insurance packages offered by Coolcat. There are six investment levels with the lowest at VND1.26 million and the highest at VND210 million, corresponding to incomes from VND60,000 to VND9 million per day.

Lawyer Luong Van Chuong from SBLaw, the HCM City Bar Association, said the model of Coolcat shows signs of illegal multi-level marketing (MLM) which invites and awards money to those who join the trading floor. The floor uses the money it collects from newcomers to pay to the older players. If there are no more newcomers, the system will collapse.

Quang Dinh

"Stuck in a rut" in the cryptocurrency game Cryptocurrency speculation can help many people change their lives, but it entails consequences that not everyone is willing to accept the trade-offs.
Graduating from Harvard University with a master's degree in Public Policy, Tran Ha Duong said that he thought the prestigious school was completely beyond my reach.

Tran Ha Duong once said: There are only two ways to get into Harvard. One is that you are extraordinary, the other is that your parents are.

With this mindset, Duong used to think Harvard was something beyond his reach. However, things changed after he graduated from university and had been working for a period of time. He realized that what he thought before was wrong and he decided to apply for a master's degree program at Harvard.

At that time, studying abroad meant quitting his well-paid job in a multinational group. Therefore, it was quite surprising when I said that I didnt think whether I was qualified to be a Harvard student, but whether Harvard is worth being exchanged for my existing opportunities. The most important thing when deciding to study in Harvard is that if it could help me achieve my aspiration, Duong said.

That aspiration is to help young people in Vietnam have the guts and necessary skills to contribute to the prosperity and wealth of Vietnam.

Change the way you address questions

Duong and his mother on the day of graduation.

In his essay sent to Harvard for his application, Duong mentioned a project named YVS, Youths View, Voice and Vision in Society, which he and friends carried out in 2012. The projects aim was to create a friendly environment where youth can share their skills in brainstorming, and can debate and discuss social issues.

In the first year of its establishment, YVS successfully organized many seminars and contests on thinking, debate and rhetoric such as IChallenged 2012, 2013, BNW 2013.

Before that, Tran Ha Duong was considered a good speaker. Since his high school years, Duong has been a delegate at the United Nations Simulation Conferences (Model United Nations). He also received the United Nations Association's Young Diplomat award in Singapore in 2010. When he was a university student, he was a member of the Amos. J. Peaslee debating team at Swarthmore University, attending many competitions at noted universities such as Harvard, Princeton, New York University, and others. He also represented Vietnam at the 11th UN Youth Summit held in New York in January 2013.

When studying or working, I am not the most talkative one nor the best speaker. But I always try to have the most positive influence on my co-workers or my working team."

Duong said that young people nowadays have more opportunities to practice their thinking, debate and rhetoric skills through competitions and extracurricular activities more than they did 10 years ago. Vietnamese also have a deeper awareness of the need for these skills. However, not all young people have the opportunity to obtain them, especially those in remote areas.

Tran Ha Duong.

To help young people attain these skills, teachers and parents must be more open in their mindsets, accept and even encourage different perspectives from their students or their children. However, it will take many more years for us to witness these changes in every family and every school.

Duong said that one of the biggest obstacles for young people is the habit of following the crowd, or letting pressure from teachers, parents and friends affect their decisions.

Young people should take up the habit of asking Why?, What if? instead of What? or What should I do? There are a lot of young people who ask me What should I major in? Asking this kind of question means that they rely on other people. Instead, you could wonder, Why do I like or dislike this major?, What if I decide to pursue this career, against my parents will? These are questions that help develop critical thinking and are the foundation for you to confidently present and defend your point of view.

However, Duong also said that these skills are not the ultimate goal, but they are just necessary tools to help each young person to find their own direction and contribute to the society.

Huong Quynh

PhD student: 'no common formula' for Harvard admission Cao Bao Anh, a doctoral student in immunology at Harvard University, is a former student at the High School for the Gifted under HCM City National University.
The painting "Madame Phuong" by painter Mai Trung Thu recently sold for US$3.1 million, a high point in Vietnams cultural life.

So far, seven Vietnamese paintings have sold for over $1 million. The first painting was "Family Life" by artist Le Pho, which was auctioned for over $1.17 million four years ago. This was the first time a Vietnamese painting sold for over $1 million at an international auction.

'Family Life' by Le Pho

Over two years later, another painting by Le Pho, Nude, broke the record made by ' "Family Life'' when it was sold for nearly $1.4 million when auctioned at the "20th Century & Contemporary Art" auction held by Christie's in Hong Kong, China.

Besides these three paintings, others that were auctioned for over $1 million were "Self-portrait" by Le Pho, "Landscape of Thay pagoda" and "Nine carp in the lake" by Pham Hau, and "Disillusioned" by To Ngoc Van.

According to some sources, most of these paintings have been repatriated. The buyer of "Madame Phuong" is said to be a Vietnamese businessman named Q, who plans to open a private museum. Over the years, he has quietly bought many famous Vietnamese paintings.

'Nude' by Le Pho.

Previously, paintings by well-known Vietnamese artists such as Le Pho, Vu Cao Dam, Mai Trung Thu, Le Thi Luu, Nam Son and To Ngoc Van were mainly bought by foreigners because seven or eight decades ago, few Vietnamese had an understanding and passion for the arts and were not aware of the value of art, as well as not being financially capable to buy these works.

It used to be a hot issue that in the early years of Doi Moi (reform) period of more than 30 years ago, many Vietnamese contemporary artworks went abroad, particularly Singapore. Both museums and individuals in Singapore bought quite a lot of Vietnamese paintings which were typical artworks of the Doi Moi period. Now those who want to admire these works have to fly to Singapore.

Joyful return

For any country, the presence of artworks by local artists at their museums or exhibitions is a source of pride for their culture in particular and the country in general. The repatriation of famous Vietnamese paintings is a highlight of the country's culture.

"Madame Phuong" by Mai Trung Thu

The million-dollar artworks bought by Vietnamese people are definitely a tonic for the domestic art market, which is fragile, unorganized and lacking in many fundamental elements. It can not only stimulate the market but also excite both buyers and artists.

Some Vietnamese artists who attended international auctions of artworks held by Sotheby's and Christie's said that usually paintings are bought by people from the painters' countries. They said that for a long time Vietnamese had not paid attention to Vietnamese artworks. This caused the prices of Vietnamese artworks to be lower than those of other countries in the region. Even when "Madame Phuong" set a new record in price, which doubled that of Le Pho's "Nude", the artwork that previously held the record for price, the price of Vietnamese paintings is still far behind that of Southeast Asian countries.

It is hoped that when Vietnamese begin buying Vietnamese paintings at famous auction floors the value of Vietnamese paintings will further increase.

Directors of the Vietnam National Fine Arts Museum of different periods lamented that under the past and present mechanism, the museum has failed to compete with even local panting collectors in buying valuable artworks, not to mention million-dollar paintings. This has made the museum less attractive to audiences.

The family of painter Le Thi Luu, a contemporary artist of the same age as Mai Trung Thu, Vu Cao Dam, and Le Pho, donated 26 paintings to the Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts. With the repatriation of million-dollar Vietnamese paintings and such donations, it is very likely that local museums will one day have more famous artworks to present to the public.

At the most famous museums in the world, artworks donated by private collectors are also an important part. Buying paintings to donate to museums and the country is done by many wealthy people in the world. Vietnam is also part of this trend.

The million-dollar artworks by Vietnamese painters, which are expected to return to Vietnam include: 1, "Madame Phuong" by Mai Trung Thu - $3.1 million 2, "Nude" by Le Pho, $1.4 million 3, "Family Life" by Le Pho - $1.17 million 4, "Self-portrait" by Le Pho - $1 million 5, "Nine carp in the lake" by Pham Hau - $1.1 million 6, "Landscape of Thay pagoda" by Pham Hau - $1 million 7, Disillusionment by To Ngoc Van - $1.1 million

K.N

Paintings of Vietnamese artists return home from Japan Japanese collector Itoh Toyokichi donated a collection of 238 paintings by famous Vietnamese painters to the central city of Da Nang.
Eight provinces and cities have closed schools as part of Covid-19 prevention efforts amid a new threat of a virus outbreak.

The Hanoi Department of Education and Training late Monday afternoon issued an urgent announcement on closing schools after a local man tested positive for Covid-19.

"All education institutions from preschool to high school levels will close from May 4 until further notice," the department announced. "Schools will organise online classes from May 5."

Several universities in Hanoi including the Economics University and the Engineering and Technology University under the Vietnam National University in Hanoi have also announced that all classes will be organised online from May 4.

The education department in Danang City also sent out an urgent document to local education agencies at 10 pm on May 3 which said that all schools would be closed from May 4 until new notice is issued.

The central city also reported one Covid-19 patient in the community and the infection sources have not yet defined.

As of Tuesday morning, eight provinces and cities including Vinh Phuc, Ha Nam, Yen Bai, Hanoi, Danang, Quang Nam, An Giang, and Hung Yen have decided to temporarily close schools after Covid-19 community infections were reported.

Four more Covid-19 patients were confirmed on Tuesday morning including two locally-transmitted cases in Hanoi and Danang, raising the total number of patients in the country to 2,985, the Ministry of Health reported.

Hanoi closes schools from Tuesday amid complex COVID-19 evolution

Hanoi authorities have just decided to close all schools from kindergarten to high school levels from May 4 until next announcement in a latest move amid complex COVID-19 evolution.

Under the decision, schools will switch to online learning, the city's Department of Education and Training said.

Earlier the same day, the city ordered relic and religious sites, street eateries, iced tea stalls, and cafes to close doors from 5:00 pm on Monday to prevent the risk of COVID-19 transmissions.

Meanwhile, restaurants and coffee shop serving customers indoors shall have to erect dividers between seats or ensure customers are one meter apart from each other. The capital city asked these establishments to encourage takeaways.

The municipal authorities also asked all returnees to make health declaration after four-day public holiday, starting from April 30 to May 3.

All karaoke parlors, bars, discotheques and game rooms in the capital city were ordered to close from April 30.

As of 6:15 pm on Monday, Viet Nam confirmed 2,981 COVID-19 cases, including 2,549 recoveries and 35 fatalities.

Another Hanoian infected with SARS-CoV-2

Late on May 3 the Hanoi Centre for Disease Control confirmed another local resident has been diagnosed with the SARS-CoV-2 virus closely linked to two Chinese infections.



The patient, 26, living in Bac Tu Liem district, sat near two Chinese citizens on aboard flight VN160 from Da Nang to Hanoi on April 29. The two Chinese citizens were later confirmed as COVID-19 infections.

Via contact tracing, relevant agencies identified eight other locals in Bac Tu Liem, Nam Tu Liem, Hai Ba Trung, Hoang Mai and Cau Giay districts, who had come into close contact with the Hanoi patient.

Contact tracing is underway to early quarantine and test those in contact with the patient.

Earlier on May 2 the Ministry of Health issued an urgent telegram, looking for passengers on flight VN160 from Da Nang to Hanoi, after two Chinese citizens on board the same flight were diagnosed with the virus.

During the past four days, Hanoi capital has recorded four coronavirus infections, including three living in the outlying district of Dong Anh who were closely related to the coronavirus outbreak in Ha Nam province.

VGP/VOV
Geetesh Sharma, an Indian journalist and a close friend of Vietnam, passed away on May 2 due to COVID-19, leaving behind a deep regret in the heart of Vietnamese friends.

Geetesh Sharma (Photo: thedailystar.net)

Born in 1932, Sharma was a veteran journalist and the author of 23 books in Hindi and English, of which many were about Vietnam.

As President of the India-Vietnam Solidarity Committee (IVSC) in West Bengal, he was conferred Vietnams Order of Friendship  the noble award of the State and the Government of Vietnam  in 2015, in recognition of his significant contributions to fostering the two peoples solidarity and friendship.

Sharma was an important witness to the history of the relationship between Vietnam and India. Talking to Vietnam News Agency correspondents in India in January 2021 ahead of the 13th National Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV), he said he had travelled to Vietnam 29 times on many different occasions, visiting many localities from the North to the South.

He saw the terrible devastation of the war in Vietnam, the Doi Moi (renewal) process, and changes and steps of development taking place after each congress of the CPV.

Over the past five decades, Sharma had organised many activities to support Vietnams struggle for independence in the past as well as its current national construction and development. He was an active member of the IVSC in West Bengal since the early 1970s, participating in demonstrations showing solidarity with the Vietnamese people in their struggle for national liberation and reunification./.VNA
Biden defended the tax increase as required during Monday's address; it all begins with access to a high-quality education.

Speaking at Tidewater Community College in Norfolk, President Biden outlined a plan to expand the public school system and serve all Americans who can't afford private schooling.

President Biden on Monday encouraged businesses and affluent Americans to pay their fair share to support community college and other programs aimed at workers.

Biden challenged the nation's wealthiest individuals and businesses to pay their fair share of taxes to support his wide-ranging worker and safety net initiatives.

Biden said that the United States could have two free years of college if it raised taxes to their 2001 level.

"The choice is about who the economy serves. And so I plan on giving tax breaks to the working-class folks and making everybody pay their fair share."

I think its about time we start giving tax breaks to working-class families and middle-class families instead of just the very wealthy.

It doesnt add a single penny to our deficit, its paid for by making sure corporate America and the wealthiest 1 percent  just pay their fair share. I come from the corporate capital of the world. More corporations are incorporated in the state of Delaware [than] all the rest of the nation combined. And Im not anti-corporate, but its about time they start paying their fair share.

The school visits are part of a tour to promote Biden's $2.3 trillion initiative to repair highways, broadband, and other facilities, as well as a $1 trillion social spending package over the next decade that includes $1 trillion in education and childcare spending and $800 billion in tax incentives for middle- and low-income families.

Together, the two plans would amount to the largest domestic spending effort since the 1960s, funded by increased taxes on businesses and the rich.

At the low cost to middle-class and upper-class incomes, it would greatly extend America's 13-year-old free education program, incorporating an additional 2-year preschool program for those with a two-year college component for those who have finished high school.

Together, the two initiatives would amount to the largest domestic spending effort since the 1960s, financed by increased taxation on businesses and affluent Americans.

President Biden said

"It is paid for by making sure corporate America and the wealthiest 1% pay their fair share."

Biden and other proponents believe that community colleges are an inexpensive, open means to launching students into different career paths that allow for advancement from nursing to highly technical manufacturing jobs. It is a platform to start various types of careers, including those in nursing, as well as those in manufacturing and mechanical engineering.

The American Association of Community Colleges estimates that roughly Eleven million students were enrolled in community colleges in 2019. Tuition averaged $3,770 a year, or about one-third the cost of a four-year public college.

As a pledge, Biden has said he would collaborate with both Democrats and Republicans to resolve the issue, but they have been unable to come to an agreement.

Although almost everyone agrees that tax rates on the rich is a good idea, it was no surprise that no Republicans voted for the $1.9 trillion federal tax cut package. But it's still a good idea, if only someone eles woyuld pay for it.
WATERLOO  Attorneys for Raymond Birden Jr. said police ignored other suspects and instead focused on their client after Shavondes Martin was found dead in an alley in 2018.

Birden, 22, is charged with first-degree murder in Martins death, and the defense outlined its case during closing arguments Monday.

Mr. Birden didnt kill anyone. He didnt help anyone kill anyone, defense attorney Steven Drahozal told the jury.

He said investigators didnt find anything at the scene of the shooting to link Birden to the crime.

The defense said some of the states witnesses  including those who last saw Martin alive  could be considered suspects themselves, and Drahozal said those who knew Martin also suggested other possible suspects, leads police didnt track down.

Black Hawk County Attorney Brian Williams said investigators were following the evidence, which led them to Birden.

Martin had been charged with and then acquitted of killing Birdens brother, 21-year-old Otavious Brown, in a 2016 shooting. Friends of Shavondes Martin testified that his cousin, Danaesha Martin, had picked him up at an apartment building the night he died.
Over the years, school personnel have always wanted to know how to engage parents in what they were learning. In our meeting with the Waterloo community, the parents were asking the same thing and said that they wanted to be part of that, Wojciak said. After the meeting, we knew we had committed parents to work with to not only co-develop We Can! Parents, but to also ensure we were culturally tailoring We Can! for the Waterloo community, an important aspect in successful programs and partnerships.

Another necessary component is how the cultural and racial strengths of the community are infused into programs, Hooper said.

We Can! Building Relationships and Resilience will be a long-term project involving partnerships outside of education to expand trauma-informed training in the Cedar Valley. Hooper said United Way and other community funding will allow the program to be implemented in all 11 Waterloo public elementary schools over the next several years.

Understanding and addressing the academic and socio-emotional needs of learners dealing with trauma will take a paradigm shift at the staff and organizational level of the school system, Weekley acknowledged, but will better equip adults to parent, teach and lead.
At the general debate of the 75th session of the United Nations General Assembly in September last year, China announced that it would aim to achieve peak CO2 emissions before 2030 and carbon neutrality before 2060.



This is a major strategic decision made by the Communist Party of China to achieve sustainable development for the Chinese nation and build a community of a shared future for mankind. It demonstrates China's determination in pursuing green and low-carbon development and its responsibility as a major country to actively tackle climate change and safeguard a bright future for humanity.

The goals for peak CO2 emissions and carbon neutrality constitute a strategic choice for the sake of humanity's future as well as for realizing the Chinese Dream of national rejuvenation. As important tasks in building a beautiful China, requisites for meeting the people's new expectations for a better life, and powerful tools for promoting high-quality development and realizing economic and social transformation, reaching peak CO2 emissions and carbon neutrality are closely related to China's development goals. Those goals include growth driven by innovation, optimization of industrial structures, and the fostering of a new development paradigm. With these targets in mind, China is working to create a comprehensive macro-system to help build itself into a modern socialist country alongside the historic task of ecological conservation.

In addition, these goals are essential to building a community with a shared future for mankind. In the face of worsening global climate change, it's the common aspiration of the people everywhere to deepen cooperation on global energy governance, jointly promote sustainable global energy development, and collectively build a clean and beautiful world. Building new drivers of growth through low-carbon transformation is an important measure for China to share the dividends of its modernization with the world as well as an outstanding contribution China has been making in achieving the goals set by the Paris Agreement and in improving the global governance.

These goals are also self-enforced reforms laid out by China as it embarks on a new journey of modernization. Against the backdrop of the global spread of the COVID-19 pandemic and the sluggish recovery of the world economy, it will be arduous for China to achieve rapid emission reduction while maintaining sustained and stable economic and social development.

Peaking CO2 emissions and reaching carbon neutrality will require extensive and profound systematic changes both economically and socially. The key is to follow a new development philosophy and adopt systematic thinking, take the overall green renewal of the economic and social development as the guide and green low-carbon energy development as the focus, and speed up the development of industrial structures, ways of work and life, and spatial layouts that help conserve resources and protect the environment. We will unswervingly follow the path of high-quality development that prioritizes ecological preservation and boosts green and low-carbon development and aim to achieve peak emissions and reach neutrality via efficient emission cuts and high-quality development.

We must also give better play to China's institutional strengths, make scientific plans for carbon emission reduction, and adopt targeted policies through national coordination. We should give top priority to conserving energy and resources; make good use of the role of the government; strengthen innovation in science, technology, and institutions; and formulate an effective incentive and restraint mechanism to create a strong impetus for becoming carbon neutral.

These goals indicate China is performing its responsibility as a major country. China's announcement of its "carbon peak and neutrality" targets is by far the largest climate commitment to reducing global warming expectations made by any country. As the world's largest developing country, and at a critical stage in its own development, China is committed to completing the world's most dramatic reduction in carbon emissions and realizing carbon neutrality in the shortest time ever recorded. This fully demonstrates that China has shouldered its responsibility in actively addressing climate change and will do its part to facilitate the sustainable development of the world.

Following China's commitment, the international response to climate change has accelerated across the board. In April, China, France and Germany have reached consensuses during a video summit for cooperating and coping with climate change. China and the United States also have issued a joint statement addressing the climate crisis, demonstrating China's part in helping to lead in green and low-carbon development internationally via practical actions.

This article was written in Chinese and translated by Xu Xiaoxuan.

Dr. Zhou Luming is editor of Qiushi Journal. His research interests include China's diplomacy and international relations.

Opinion articles reflect the views of their authors, not necessarily those of China.org.cn.

If you would like to contribute, please contact us at opinion@china.org.cn.
They match well with what I see as a lasting trend of folks wanting to know more about where their food comes from, Naig said. So I think the timing is right to make a push here to see if we can support some growth.

The bill won bipartisan support in the House where it was approved 91-0. Rep. Chris Hall, D-Sioux City, a Kansas City Barbecue Society certified judge, said the backlog at lockers speaks to a greater interest in our state and many other places where people are looking to find a connection to local agriculture and to know where their food comes from.

Ingels also wants to build on the workforce side of the issue. HF 857 calls for the establishment a task force to look at the feasibility of offering an artisanal butchery program through community colleges or Iowa State Universitys meat science lab.

Weve talked to small lockers around the state and its tough for them to find skilled labor, Ingels said. Its a near universal concern Naig hears about when he visits with small processors.

In addition to looking at college-level programs, Naig said, the answer may be apprenticeship programs to get people into lockers where they can work alongside skilled cutters to learn the trade.
Something Sen. Joni Ernst said during a press conference last week shook me.

It wasnt the type of comment that automatically leaps off the page. I didnt even use it in my story on the press conference and its topic: new legislation designed to address sexual assault in the military.

But it stood out to me because of its raw, personal nature and how it showed exactly why sexual assault is a scourge that we must constantly combat.

The press conference, held outside Thursday in Washington, D.C., was called to highlight the legislation introduced by U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, a Democrat from New York who has been working on the bill  and the issue  for eight years. The chief provision, among many in the bill, would remove the decision whether to prosecute a sexual assault allegation from the chain of command, handing it instead to an independent military prosecutor.

Ernst, an Iowa Republican who comes at the issue with a unique perspective because she is both a former military commander and a sexual assault survivor, has lent her support to the legislation and spoke at the press conference. It was when a reporter asked Ernst about her evolution on the bill  Ernst in the past did not support it  that Ernst said something that stuck with me.
Growing populations are giving two additional seats in Congress to Texas and one to Florida. New York and California are each losing a seat, not because their head counts are falling but because theyre not rising as fast.

Do these population changes also alter the states politics? In many cases, yes, and that generally does not bode well for Republicans. Texas, for example, voted for Donald Trump in 2020, but many of its urban areas did not  and those are the parts of Texas booming with transplants from outside the state.

The capital, Austin, one of Americas hottest cities attracting newcomers, is a liberal supernova in what was a securely red Texas. Austin is the No. 1 destination for tech workers leaving San Francisco. Another is Georgia, a former Republican stronghold that just shocked the world by favoring Joe Biden for president and sending two Democrats to the U.S. Senate.

Austin and the surrounding Travis County gave President Joe Biden 72% of its votes. Nearly every officeholder in Travis County is now a Democrat.

Apple will soon open a $1 billion Austin campus with 5,000 workers. Alphabet (Googles parent), Amazon and Facebook, meanwhile, are expanding their footprints in the city. Suffice it to say, Austin is unlikely to become less liberal  or less important in Texas politics.
oxygen/Getty Images

En espanol | Jeanne D'Esposito has three cats and a dog  the menagerie, as she calls her pets. As COVID-19 raced through the human population, she worried about passing the virus to the felines and canine in her family.

Early in the pandemic, D'Esposito, 57, of Malverne, New York, had read some studies about zoo lions and tigers getting COVID-19 and assumed that meant her cats could be at risk.

"I did worry about that, but there's only so much you can do, she says. It's not like you can put a mask on a cat."

Although uncommon, it appears the virus that causes COVID-19 can be transmitted from humans to domesticated cats, according to newly published research from the United Kingdom. A second recent study from Brazil found both dogs and cats had contracted the virus in households where humans had COVID-19.

The U.K. study, which appears in VetRecord, detected SARS-CoV-2 last year in two cats that had developed mild or severe respiratory disease. The genetic makeup of the feline virus closely resembled that of the human SARS-CoV-2 virus, indicating that the virus likely jumped from an infected person to a cat.

"These findings indicate that human-to-cat transmission of SARS-CoV-2 occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic in the U.K., with the infected cats displaying mild or severe respiratory disease, according to a statement from Margaret Hosie, a professor of comparative virology at the Medical Research Council-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research. Given the ability of the coronavirus to infect companion animals, it will be important to monitor for human-to-cat, cat-to-cat and cat-to-human transmission.

Coronavirus jumps from humans to pets

The Brazil study by researchers in Rio de Janeiro and published by Plos One, found that between May and October 2020, in the households of 21 patients with COVID-19 who were studied, nine dogs out of 29 and four cats out of 10 were infected with the virus. Symptoms included sneezing, coughing and diarrhea, but some animals showed no signs of the virus.

In the U.K. study of the two cats found with the virus, one was a 4-month-old female ragdoll kitten that did not survive. The kitten's owner had developed symptoms consistent with SARS-CoV-2 weeks before the cat became sick. The owner, however, had not been tested for coronavirus. The second cat (a 6-year-old female Siamese) survived. One of its owners tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, but a second cat in the household showed no signs of infection.
Cruise fans eager to sail

Cruise companies are banking on these protocols to ease fears the traveling public may have about cruising after the COVID-19 debacles at sea last year, and it appears they can breathe easy. Even as U.S. cruising remains uncertain, Americans are booking cruises in Mexico, the Caribbean and Europe.

Deborah Bell, a vaccinated retiree and frequent cruiser in Coronado, California, has booked a seven-day Mexican Riviera cruise with family aboard the Norwegian Bliss out of Los Angeles in December. The cruise lines have learned from what happened and have gone to such extremes to make their ships safe, she says. I dont expect any repeat of what we saw last year.

Like Bell, plenty of other cruise fans seem to have faith in the protocols. Sales have been strong for new summer cruises out of the Bahamas, Bermuda and the Caribbean that Crystal Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Viking and other companies started selling this year to skirt the U.S. ban. Vikings six eight-day sailings out of Hamilton, Bermuda, aboard the Viking Orion have nearly sold out in a matter of weeks, so the company just added two more. As Europe slowly opens up, companies are starting to sell cruises homeporting in countries such as Greece and Iceland with success, too. Viking offered four eight-day sailings out of Reykjavik, Iceland, on the Viking Sky that sold out within days, prompting the company to add 15 additional ones. And it just announced 18 sailings out of Malta between July and early October on the Viking Sea and its new Viking Venus.

Ray Breslof, a semiretired controller who lives on Floridas West Coast with his wife, eagerly booked the first of Crystals 32 seven-night cruises sailing out of the Bahamas on the Crystal Serenity beginning in July. Weve been cooped up for a long time, so when we saw that Crystal was running these round-trip cruises in and out of Nassau and Bimini, we basically said, Lets go,  Breslof says. Its the first cruise this ship is going to be on in about a year, so that made us feel very comfortable. Being vaccinated added to the couples comfort level.

Cruise lines are helping fuel this demand with looser cancellation rules and other customer-friendly policies. When Breslof booked the Crystal cruise in March, the company required only a $750 deposit, with final payment not due until 60 days before the cruise. Many cruise companies are offering other booking incentives, including relaxed refund policies with a COVID diagnosis. Royal Caribbean says it will give a passenger and his or her immediate travel party a full refund if any of them test positive within 14 days of their cruise or during it. In the case of the latter, the refund also applies to any confirmed close contacts on the cruise.

Fee says customers should take advantage of these perks, because they wont last forever: If people dont make their reservations for 2022 now, theyre either going to be shut out because the demand will outpace supply, or theyre going to pay more because the rates will go up. And, she adds, Youll see cancellation penalties back in place where they were pre-COVID.

An alternative: small-ship cruising

American Cruise Lines and UnCruise Adventures sail Alaska, U.S. rivers (such as the Mississippi, Snake and Columbia rivers) and in Hawaii, New England and the San Juan Islands in Washington state. Not surprisingly, both companies are seeing skyrocketing demand given the current large-ship ban. American Cruise bookings are exceeding the companys 2019 record levels, and UnCruises business has tripled compared to usual for this time period. This will likely be the heaviest April and May weve ever had in our history, says Dan Blanchard, UnCruise owner and CEO.

The storys the same for American Steamboat Co., which currently has 74 cruises scheduled for 2021, on the Columbia, Mississippi, Ohio, Snake and Tennessee rivers. More than 40 of the sailings are already wait-listed and the company is predicting a sold-out season.

Sail with any of these small-ship companies and you can expect many of the same safety protocols adopted by the larger cruise lines, such as requiring a negative COVID test before embarking and mask mandates in public areas. American Steamboat and UnCruise are also requiring vaccinations for both crew and passengers. Once we got into early March and the vaccination numbers were real and being exceeded, we quickly pivoted to vaccinated cruises, and that sent our bookings through the roof, says Blanchard.
Jim Greif tills one of his soybean fields in Linn County on. Greif farms about 1000 acres of crops in the area rotating between corn and soybeans.
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Daily lateral flow tests could be used as a way to prevent home-isolation for those who have been in contact with someone tested positive for coronavirus, British media reported Sunday.

Currently, these people are required to quarantine at home for 10 days but the measure could be scrapped if a trial in England, which gives daily lateral flow tests to as many as 40,000 people, is successful, Sky News reported.

"This new pilot could help shift the dial in our favour by offering a viable alternative to self-isolation for people who are contacts of positive COVID-19 cases, and one that would allow people to carry on going to work and living their lives," said British Health Secretary Matt Hancock.

The trial will begin on May 9 and close contacts of people with coronavirus will be contacted by phone and sent seven days of the tests if they decide to participate in the study.

They will have to test themselves every morning for seven days and will be exempt from the home isolation rule every day they test negative, as long as they do not show any symptoms of coronavirus.

Lateral flow tests give results in about 30 minutes but are considered less sensitive than PCR (polymerase chain reaction) tests, whose results usually return in 24 hours or so, according to the BBC.

More than 34.3 million people have been given the first jab of the coronavirus vaccine, according to the latest official figures.

Experts have warned that despite progress in vaccine rollout, Britain is "still not out of the woods" amid concerns over new variants, particularly those first emerged in South Africa, Brazil and India, and the third wave of pandemic on the European continent.

To bring life back to normal, countries such as Britain, China, Russia, the United States as well as the European Union have been racing against time to roll out coronavirus vaccines.
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Quarterly Activities Report

Sydney, May 3, 2021 AEST (ABN Newswire) - During Q1, Empire Energy Group Limited ( ASX:EEG ) ( OTCMKTS:EEGUF ) announced a 47% upgrade to its best estimate Prospective Gas Resource to 3.5 TCF (47% increase) and a maiden best estimate Contingent Gas Resource of 41 BCF within EP187. Empire also made material progress during the quarter planning for an active field season this year.After quarter end, the Company agreed, subject to customary conditions precedent, to acquire the Beetaloo Basin properties of Pangaea Resources, making Empire one of the largest acreage holders in the Greater McArthur Basin and Beetaloo Sub-basin. Key highlights include:- Empire's best estimate Prospective Resources have nearly trebled to ~41 TCFe comprising 37 TCF gas and 657 MMbbls liquids (condensate and oil)- 2C Contingent Resources have increased by more than 350% comprising 171 BCF gas and 2.9 MMbbls of liquids- The Energy Minerals Group ("EMG"), Pangaea's joint venture partner in the acquired acreage, has elected to exercise its Tag Along Right to divest its 17.5% interest in the Pangaea tenements to Empire on the same terms as Pangaea completing Empire's 100% buy out. The EMG acquisition will further increase Empire's prospective and contingent petroleum resources- $30 million (gross) was raised in a two-tranche placement at $0.30 per share to fund the acquisition and further work program activities including horizontal appraisal drilling- Empire has also launched a Share Purchase Plan which closes on 7th May 2021- An Environment Management Plan for up to 7 horizontal wells (including Carpentaria-1 horizontal section) on up to six new well pads and 2D infill seismic on EP187 has been accepted by the NT Government for final assessmentHighlights of the quarter:- Mr Louis Rozman appointed a Non-Executive Director of the Company taking the seat of Mr John Gerahty who has retired from the Board- NSAI certified a best estimate prospective resource for EP187 of 3.5 TCF of gas and 27 MMbbls of condensate and Empire's maiden best estimate contingent resource of 41 BCF gas in the immediate vicinity of the Carpentaria-1 well location in EP187- The Company ended the Quarter with $11.4 million in cash. Current cash balance is $22.4 million following settlement of Tranche 1 of the placementComments from Managing Director Alex Underwood:Empire is entering an exciting new phase following the transformational acquisition of Pangaea Resources and our work programs focused on leading the Beetaloo Basin into production. The acquisition of Pangaea and EMG's Northern Territory properties represents a significant milestone in the history of Empire and strengthens our rapid commercialisation plans. Holding material acreage on both sides of the Beetaloo provides drilling location optionality and presents the opportunity to supply gas to both the Amadeus and McArthur River Mine Gas Pipelines. We look forward to being back in the field now that the Wet Season is reaching its conclusion with expected operations to begin in early June. We look forward to updating shareholders as on-ground appraisal work progresses.I would like to thank our team at Empire including our operational team at inGauge Energy for their achievements over the last Quarter which are detailed in this report. I would also like to thank our new and existing shareholders for their support in our recent capital raising and I encourage shareholders to participate in the Share Purchase Plan.To view the full quarterly report, please visit:About Empire Energy Group Ltd

Empire Energy (ASX:EEG) (OTCMKTS:EEGUF) holds over 14.5 million acres of highly prospective exploration tenements in the McArthur and Beetaloo Basins, Northern Territory. Work undertaken by the Company since 2010 demonstrates that the Eastern depositional Trough of the McArthur Basin, of which the Company holds 80% has very considerable conventional and unconventional hydrocarbon potential. The Beetaloo sub-Basin, in which Empire holds a substantial position, has independently assessed world class hydrocarbon volumes in place with a major ramp up in industry activity underway to appraise substantial discoveries already made by major Australian oil and gas operators.

Empire Energy is an experienced conventional oil and gas producer with operations in the Appalachia region (New York and Pennsylvania). Empire has been successfully developing and producing oil and gas since 2006.


Launch of Multimode Communication App

Sydney, May 3, 2021 AEST (ABN Newswire) - AdvanceTC Ltd ( OTCMKTS:ATCLF ) ( NSX:A88 ) is pleased to advise that the Company has started deploying its Multimode Communication App, StarzChat, to selected users prior to commercial launching. The StarzChat Multimode Communication app is the Company's own Communication software built to offer users the ease and unique use of communicating in various modes, through 4G/5G, Satellite and even Digital Mobile Radio. It provides instant messaging, voice, Push to Talk and video, all in one, and is built on top of the Matrix Protocol .The Company is targeting to release the app to the general public by August 2021, upon the completion of the trial usage by the selected users.For more information and features available on StarzChat Multimode Communication app , please click here :-About Matrix ProtocolThe Open source Matrix Protocol provides federated, secure, instant messaging to many organisations, government agencies and consumers. With more than 28 Million users and 60,000 servers operating around the world today, the Matrix Protocol is the best open source real time communication protocol for tomorrow.For more information on Matrix , please click here :-About AdvanceTC Limited

AdvanceTC is a premier technology company specializing in the design and development of mobile telecommunication and computing devices. AdvanceTC is listed on NSX Australia (NSX:A88). More information on the company can be found at www.advancetc.com


Thomson & White Rock Execute Agreement on Mt Carrington

Ballarat, May 3, 2021 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Thomson Resources Ltd ( ASX:TMZ ) and White Rock Minerals Ltd ( ASX:WRM ) ( OTCMKTS:WRMCF ) are pleased to advise that following completion of due diligence that both parties have now entered into a definitive agreement for a 3 stage earn-in and option to joint venture agreement ("Joint Venture Agreement"). With the definitive agreement executed Thomson can now proceed to earn up to 70% of White Rock's Mt Carrington gold - silver project ("Project") and, at Thomson's election, to form a Joint Venture to then fund on a pro-rata basis, mine development and further exploration of the very prospective Mt Carrington leases for epithermal gold - silver (base metal) mineralisation and conceptual large copper - gold targets (see end of this Release for transaction details).The Texas, Mt Carrington, Webbs and Conrad projects (see Thomson's ASX Releases dated 4 March 2021, 23 February 2021, 27 January 2021 and 31 August 2020) host significant silver-gold resources and compelling precious metal exploration potential and are clustered in the New England region of north eastern NSW and southern Queensland. Despite their proximity to one another and attractive commodity mix, these projects have never before been consolidated under one company and so have to date remained largely undeveloped.Thomson has aggressively pursued a consolidation strategy in this region to bring these and other key resources together into an overarching project with a large precious metal (silver - gold), base and technology metal (silver, zinc, lead, copper, tin) resource base that could be potentially developed and centrally processed under Thomson's new "Fold Belt Hub and Spoke Strategy".David Williams, Executive Chairman of Thomson said:"The signing of the definitive agreement is a great achievement for both Thomson and our partner at Mt Carrington, White Rock. The process with White Rock has been constructive and we look forward to working with the White Rock team and progressing the Mt Carrington Project. With the definitive agreement signed the deal is now firm and we are another step further in implementing our Fold Belt Hub and Spoke strategy towards development.Thomson has targeted, in aggregate, in ground material available for the strategy's central processing facility of 100 million ounces of silver equivalent and with this agreement now executed, and following the completion of the Texas acquisition in the near future, we believe we will have achieved that target. Our work towards having all existing resources stated in accordance with the JORC 2012 reporting standard is well underway. Once estimates are complete, Thomson will be able to publish the consolidated reserves and resources under the Thomson banner.Matt Gill, Managing Director & CEO of White Rock said:"White Rock is extremely pleased to partner with a visionary group like Thomson Resources. They have a clear strategy to unlock the potential from the consolidation of various gold and silver assets in and around our advanced Mt Carrington project in NSW."Securing a quality partner to advance Mt Carrington is a key and timely step in White Rock's strategy to unlock the value in all of our projects. The lure of free-carry at Mt Carrington through stages 1,2 and 3 as well as project management allocation at Mt Carrington to Thomson will allow White Rock to focus funds and management time on our two exciting Alaskan projects (the high-grade silver and zinc Red Mountain VMS project and the neighbouring Last Chance intrusion-related Gold System (IRGS) project) and on the equally exciting production and exploration opportunities within the high-grade Victorian Walhalla-Woods Point gold belt."With the proposed merger contemplated between White Rock and AuStar Gold (a significant landholder and with a high-grade gold production and exploration tenement profile in the prolific Victorian Goldfields) joint venturing our Mt Carrington asset will allow White Rock to focus on this significant Victorian gold production and exploration opportunity as well as our exciting projects in Alaska.""Fold Belt Hub and Spoke" StrategyThe key projects underpinning this strategy have been strategically and aggressively acquired by Thomson in only a 4-month period since November 2020. These projects include the Webbs and Conrad Silver Projects, Mt Carrington Silver-Gold Project and Texas Silver Project (Figure 1*). As part of its Fold Belt Hub and Spoke Strategy, Thomson has targeted, in aggregate, in ground material available to a central processing facility of 100 million ounces of silver equivalent.Thomson is evaluating whether the consolidated portfolio will allow for a central processing facility and the blending of ores for beneficiation purposes and the critical resource scale to justify the use of processing technologies to maximise recoveries of silver-gold, base and technology metals, that are not being considered under currently proposed processing pathways for the individual projects.Thomson has engaged Brisbane based metallurgical and process engineering consultants CORE Resources to evaluate the numerous metallurgical studies on these projects and other projects targeted for consolidation, and to confirm potential compatibility of ores and processing options, including the potential for CORE's world leading process technologies to optimise processing and recovery of precious, base and technology metals.*To view tables and figures, please visit:About White Rock Minerals Ltd

White Rock Minerals Ltd (ASX:WRM) 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 @ 12.9% ZnEq for 1.1 million tonnes of contained zinc equivalent. 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. White Rock Minerals is listed on the Australian Stock Exchange.
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The U.S. forces in Afghanistan on Sunday handed over a key operating base to Afghan National Army in restive southern Helmand province, reported local media.

"Camp Antonik in Helmand province was officially handed over to the Afghan army's 215 Maiwand Corps on Sunday," Tolo News TV reported.

With no change in its name, the camp will be used as a base for Afghan Special Operations Forces, the report said.

Helmand province, notorious for poppy growing, is a known Taliban insurgents' stronghold.

The violence lingers in war-torn Afghanistan as the United States and NATO troops have been leaving the country.

About 3,500 U.S. forces and 7,000 NATO troops will be withdrawn before Sept. 11, the day which is the 20th anniversary of the terrorist attacks that drew the United States into war in Afghanistan.
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The 30-year-old British model addresses the pay gap between her and white peers like Cara Delevingne and Karlie Kloss, claiming she's paid less because she's black.

May 3, 2021

AceShowbiz - Model Jourdan Dunn fears she is paid less than peers Cara Delevingne and Karlie Kloss because of her "skin tone."

The 30 year old hates the inequality she has witnessed in the fashion industry, but insists she knows her true worth, even if others don't.

"I remember the girls I came up with, like my best friends in the industry - Cara and Karlie; I know their rate was different to my rate, even though we were doing the same jobs," Jourdan explains. "When I think about that, it's so f**ked up. Like, what is the difference? But clearly the difference is the skin tone."

"But now I know my worth and I'm going to ask for it."

Jourdan has taken inspiration from former Victoria's Secret Angel Chanel Iman.

"Backstage at shows, Chanel would say if she didn't like something with her hair and make-up," Dunn adds. "I would normally just hold it in and then be in the bathroom and try to change it as I didn't want to offend anyone."

"But seeing her do that, I realised at the end of the day, I am a brand and I need to look a certain way and I need to make sure I look good in a way that's not disrespectful."

And she is always making sure she paves the way for other people of colour. "Now when I have the creative direction of being able to choose who I want on shoots, I always make sure I bring on black young creatives," she tells the TTYA Talks podcast.
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The 'Game of Thrones' alum celebrates her second wedding anniversary with husband Joe Jonas by sharing pictures from their shotgun nuptials in the Sin City.

May 3, 2021

AceShowbiz - Sophie Turner celebrated her second wedding anniversary over the weekend (01-02May21) by sharing photos from her surprise Las Vegas nuptials.

The actress and her husband Joe Jonas marked the occasion by posting sweet tributes to each other on Instagram, while Sophie offered up unseen shots from their big night, which took place after the 2019 Billboard Music Awards.

"Happy 2 year Vegas Wedding anniversary to this big ol hunk of man meat (sic)," she captioned the shots.

Joe shared his own post, writing, "Married as [email protected]$K for 2 years! Love you bub @sophiet (sic)."

The couple was married by an Elvis Presley impersonator at a ceremony that was attended by brothers Nick and Kevin Jonas, as well as the pair's famous friends, including Tom Holland and DJ Diplo, who infamously found himself in trouble with the bride and groom for livestreaming the Chapel L'Amour celebration at the A Little White Wedding Chapel venue on his Instagram Stories.

Several months after the Vegas wedding, Joe and Sophie married again in a lavish ceremony in France, and they became first-time parents when baby daughter Willa was born in July, 2020.

In an interview last year, Sophie talked about life as a married couple during lockdown.

"I'm kind of loving it," she said. "I'm an introvert, I'm a homebody, if I could stay at home all day I would, so this is great for me."

However, it's different for her husband. "Joe and I... everything seems to be working out in my favour here because Joe is a real social butterfly and I struggle to lock him down and just spend time with me. It's like a prison for him, but it's great for me," she revealed.
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A 29-year-old woman and a 31-year-old man, both from London, were found on the grounds of the Royal Lodge in Windsor Great Park on April 25, Thames Valley Police say.

May 3, 2021

AceShowbiz - Two men have been arrested for trespassing Prince Andrew's home. Thames Valley Police said a 29-year-old woman and a 31-year-old man, both from London, were arrested after a report of intruders near the official residence of the Duke of York last week.

The two men were found on the grounds of the Royal Lodge in Windsor Great Park, which Andrew shares with his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson, on Sunday, April 25. Police said there was no risk to anyone at the lodge and the men have been released while inquires continue.

It was the second trespassing incident at Prince Andrew's home within a week. The Sun reported that on April 19, police were also called to the Royal Lodge after a woman was found on the grounds of the lodge.

The 43-year-old woman managed to get into the home and spent minutes on the grounds after telling security guards she was having lunch with the third child and second son of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip.

She was detained after asking a staff member where Andrew was and saying that he was his fiancee. Thames Valley Police said the woman was later "de-arrested," but further detained under the Mental Health Act.

The Royal Lodge is at the heart of Windsor Great Park and about 3 miles (5 km) south of Windsor Castle, where the Queen and the late Duke of Edinburgh resided during the coronavirus pandemic. It was the Windsor residence of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother (Queen Elizabeth II's mother) from 1952 until her death in 2002.

In 2003, Prince Andrew was granted a lease agreement by the Crown Estate for 75 years. Following his divorce from Sarah in 1996, he moved to the Royal Lodge in 2004. In 2007, Sarah purchased Dolphin House, a mansion directly beside the Royal Lodge. But after a fire at Dolphin House in 2008, she moved into the Royal Lodge, again sharing a house with the Duke of York.
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A video surfacing online shows the 'What's Poppin' rapper hanging out near a stage at Vibes Restaurant and Ultra Lounge before a fight between a woman and at least one man occurred.

May 3, 2021

AceShowbiz - Jack Harlow has found luck amid a horrifying moment in his life. The "What's Poppin" rapper was hanging out in a Kentucky nightclub when a fatal shooting happened. Fortunately, he managed to walk away from the ordeal without any injury.

The 23-year-old star stopped by Vibes Restaurant and Ultra Lounge in Louisville, Kentucky on Saturday, May 1 in honor of the annual Kentucky Derby. While he was enjoying the night, a fight between a woman and at least one man occurred at the party, leading to a disturbance.

In a video obtained by TMZ, Jack could be seen standing near the stage holding a glass of a drink while the altercation happened. Shortly afterward, a gunshot was fired and the panicked crowd started making a run for it. The Grammy-nominated artist was also seen running away from the chaos.

Louisville Metro Police Department reported that a woman was killed in the fatal shooting. Additionally, a man was admitted to the University of Louisville Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The victims, however, have yet to be identified.

"Authorities say the club was well attended at the time of the incident however there were no other injuries," LMPD spokeswoman Alicia Smiley told XXL. "The Homicide Unit is handling the investigation and believe both shootings took place inside the venue. There are no suspects or arrests as of this writing."

Just one day prior to the incident, the "Already Best Friends" spitter attended the Kentucky Derby and put out some photos from the event on Instagram. One of the snaps saw him sitting on the tribune while donning a white suit, black trousers and black-and-white shoes. In the accompaniment of the post, he wrote, "And I'm coming even harder for Derby tomorrow."

Neither Jack nor Vibes Restaurant and Ultra Lounge has addressed the shooting.
Celebrity

Busta Rhymes, Jermaine Dupri and Cee-Lo Green as well as members of Digital Underground were on hand to pay final respects at the ceremony in Tampa, Florida.

May 3, 2021

AceShowbiz - Shock G has been laid to rest a week after his death. The Digital Underground founder was laid to rest in a private funeral in Tampa, Florida that was attended and featured appearances by his peers in hip-hop community.

The intimate ceremony took place at the Allen Temple A.M.E. Church on Saturday, May 1 and was streamed live on the church's website. Among those in attendance were Busta Rhymes, Jermaine Dupri, Cee-Lo Green, Digital Underground's founding member Ronald "Money B" Brooks, Bootsy Collins, producer Kwame, Chuck D, Yo Yo, Sway, DJ Premier, Big Daddy Kane, MC Serch and Treach of Naughty By Nature, according to WFLA.

At the funeral service, Shock G's brother Kent Racker said, "I've always felt so much love from everyone in [Digital Underground] and I know that's an extension of him. I've always felt so much love from everybody that he touched and no story is too small or too long and I would love to hear everyone, any story you have about him, they're always about love." He added, "As his brother, it's been a charmed life being a brother of Shock G. You think about what he's done for friends, I was his brother. I'm going to miss him dearly."

YoYo also paid his final respect to the late rapper, "What I'm going to miss the most about Shock.G. was talking to him. He was the type of person, he gave me his full attention when he talked to you. He always looked at you directly in the eyes and would get really close to you. He was very animated, he was very passionate. He'd put his arms around me and wed have deep conversations. He made me feel seen and loved."

Big Daddy Kane recalled recalled touring with Digital Underground during his "Chocolate City Tour", "[They would] come around with their water guns, shooting us with super soakers and whatnot...and then on any given night you'd come downstairs around 1:00, 2:00 A.M. seeing Shock G. just sitting there at the piano in the lobby, getting it on just playing and whatnot. Man, it was beautiful times and I'm glad that I was able to have time to spend with you brother, rest well."

DJ Premier added of his late pal, "I need to say how great you are and how great you've made things for just our souls to be touched, from Digital Underground to just playing the two characters of Humpty Hump and just being Shock G. You've always been deep. I feel like I'm a deep person so I could totally relate...we're gonna miss you but were gonna hold it down for you. We'll see when we get there all right Shock G?"

Tom Silverman, the head of Tommy Boy Records, who signed Digital Underground to their label, went on singing praise for Shock G, "When Tommy Boy signed Digital Underground, we didn't just sign Greg Jacobs, we signed all of his multiple personalities." He continued, "He could have been a Walt Disney. He was that kind of genius. He was like the Nikola Tesla of hip hop, except that he has a great sense of humor. You never knew when he was serious and when he was joking. Even when I saw him in the casket yesterday, I fully expected him to smile and wink at me because that's the kind of thing he would do."

Public Enemy's frontman Chuck D, who appeared by video, echoed the sentiment, describing Shock G as a "musician, an artist, a humorist, a performer, a pioneering A&R agent and a bandmaker." He added, "Forever we're grateful for everything that Shock G did for the genre, as well as being somebody I considered a friend, somebody who always said he looked up to me, and I looked up to him, too."

Shock G was found dead in his hotel room in Tampa, Florida on April 22. He was 57 years old. The cause of death is not immediately known, but there were no signs of trauma. An autopsy was said to be conducted to determine the cause of death.
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Looking back at his experience working with 'The Matrix' star in 2001 film 'Hardball', the 'Black Panther' actor recalls being impressed by his co-star's kindness on and off set.

May 3, 2021

AceShowbiz - Michael B. Jordan has praised Keanu Reeves and Laurence Fishburne as his "heroes" after meeting the two as a young actor.

The 34-year-old "Creed" star was just 13 when he landed a role in Keanu's 2001 movie "Hardball" and he praised the star for being kind on and off set and introducing him to his "The Matrix" co-star Fishburne.

Michael told The Hollywood Reporter, "While we were in production, Keanu took the whole cast out to dinner and we had a chance to meet Laurence Fishburne."

"To this day, I still remember thinking to myself in astonishment, 'I guess this is what movie stars do - take their casts out to dinner with other big actors.' So much respect for Keanu and Laurence. It really was such a cool moment with two of my heroes."

"Hardball" director, Brian Robbins, recalled Michael and his younger castmates were in awe of Keanu at the time as they were huge fans of "The Matrix".

He said, " 'The Matrix' was such a big thing. The kids would goof around with Keanu, re-enacting scenes, like dodging bullets in slow motion. They were in awe of Keanu. All these kids were new and raw and had never made a film before."

And Brian was impressed with Michael's confidence at such a young age.

"I remember him coming in the room and being super charismatic. He was very confident - but not arrogant - and extremely likable," he added.

Keanu and Laurence were not the only actors Michael looked up to. The "Just Mercy" actor has also had nothing but praises for his late "Black Panther" co-star Chadwick Boseman. When the "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom" star lost Oscar's best actor, he said, "But you know, this is how I honestly and truly really feel about it: There's like, there's no award that can validate his legacy."

"There's no win that can take anything away from the lives around the world that he impacted," he elaborated. "So you've got to look at the things that we can control and the gifts and the blessings that he left us, and that's this incredible body of work and what he represents for as a person and as the biggest one we could really ask for."
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Based on the 2004 true-crime docuseries of the same name, the eight-episode series itself focuses on Michael Peterson, who was accused of murdering his wife Kathleen in 2001.

May 3, 2021

AceShowbiz - Toni Collette has been cast as the wife of killer Michael Peterson on a new HBO Max drama. The Australian actress will team up with Colin Firth for "The Staircase" - the eight-episode series which focuses on the 2001 death of Kathleen Peterson.

Michael Peterson was convicted of the murder of his wife after claiming she died after falling down the stairs, high on alcohol and Valium. An autopsy suggested she died from multiple injuries, including blunt force trauma to the back of her head. His charge was eventually reduced to manslaughter in 2017 and he was released from prison.

"The Staircase" is based on the true-crime docuseries of the same name which premiered in 2004. The docuseries was released as a 13-episode show in 2018 on Netflix. The new drama project, in the meantime, has "Christine" director Antonio Campos and "American Crime Story" writer Maggie Cohn serving as its writers and executive producers.

Campos himself has been tapped to direct six of the eight episodes.

Meanwhile, Collette will make her directorial debut with an adaptation of Lily King's bestseller "Writers & Lovers". The "Muriel's Wedding" star is also adapting the screenplay with Nick Payne and executive producing.

"I have been wanting to direct for quite some time but have been a bit busy with my day job," Collette told Deadline. "l couldn't be more thrilled to be bringing Lily King's beautiful, funny, moving novel to life."

The story revolves around an aspiring novelist who finds herself dating two men at the same time, following the death of her mother.
Netflix TV

Meanwhile, Byron locals are not happy with the docusoap as they reportedly paddle out into the ocean to protest the show in addition to launching a petition against the new project.

May 3, 2021

AceShowbiz - Netflix's upcoming docusoap "Byron Baes" has yet to premiere but the show is already drawing backlash not only from Byron locals but also from its cast. It has been reported that the cast members, who have yet to be revealed, are not happy with the show labeling them as "influencers" and "hot Instagrammers" in an Instagram post teasing the new project.

In response to the backlash, Netflix's Director of Originals in Australia Que Minh Luu took to her Twitter account to share that the streaming giant had apologized to the cast for the recent PR post. "A postcard's worth of copy doesn't tell the whole story of what the show is. It looks at human connection, ambition, image and what lies underneath - not all glossy, often contradictory. Like the place itself. Byron is a symbol to so many Australians," Luu began her thread.

"It is a reality show & it has craft. It is hella entertaining & it is complex. These are not mutually exclusive. The team & participants are committed, hardworking, with heart & incredible stories to tell," she went on to say. "I've never made reality before and want to do something new with it - with Eureka we're levelling s**t up. BTW, the craft and skill that goes into reality is kinda incredible??"

Of the cast members, Luu explained, "The participants number in the double digits, a quarter born/raised in the area, most have lived there a meaningful length of time, a few newer to the area...kinda like how Byron works. They are artists, musicians, entrepreneurs, business owners, models, on a spiritual journey and more. They understand the power of influence. They are part of Byron. They understand the creative vision of the show that has been developed with them over several months."

In the next tweet, Luu confirmed that most of the cast members "hated the press release too!" That prompted her to do "a lot of apologising that week. Fired the PR team (lol joking about firing, we're all learning together)."

Luu added, "Anyhoo, there's more to influencing than you think, there's more to Byron than the image, and there's more to the show. No doubt it won't be for everyone, but it'll authentic, honest and layered and FUN. Also a docusoap! Can't wait to share it."

Concluding the thread, she wrote, "Last thought: soap operas get trashed a lot but they're often a conversation starter for families, communities about current issues...when Warren and I created The Heights it was with all the respect for the genre's place in culture and what value we could add to it x."

That aside, locals were not supportive of "Byron Baes" as they reportedly thought the show would affect badly to the beach. It was said that the folks paddled out into the ocean to protest the show in addition to launching a petition against the docusoap.
Celebrity

Meanwhile, Josh's sister Jessa Duggar and her husband Ben Seewald state that they are 'saddened' to learn of her brother's child porn charges, but hope 'for the truth to be exposed.'

May 3, 2021

AceShowbiz - Josh Duggar won't be able to return to his Arkansas home even if he is out of prison. The "19 Kids and Counting" alum, who has been arrested on child porn charges, is said to be prohibited from seeing his six children if he is released on bail.

The 33-year-old's attorney is reportedly requesting he be released on bond prior to his trial, which is set on July 6. In response to the request, U.S. Chief Magistrate Judge Erin L. Wiedemann said, "Given the nature of the charges against him, the court would likely require a third-party custodian that he could reside with."

"That would ensure compliance with conditions of bond so you all would need to get that line out and inform our probation office of who that person is so they could interview that person," the judge continued. "They also will want to interview Mr. Duggar. They won't discuss your charges Duggar but they will interview you for information to determine whether you're a good person for release, in a residence where they are no minors in the home or that would be visiting unsupervised."

Josh was booked by the U.S. Marshals and detained at the Washington County jail on April 29. Having been accused of using the internet to download material related to child sexual abuse, he was slapped with charges of receiving and possessing child pornography. However, he pleaded not guilty in the April 30 hearing.

In the wake of Josh's arrest, his sister Jessa Duggar and her husband Ben Seewald released a statement that read, "We are saddened to hear of the charges against Josh." They added, "As Christians, we stand against any form of pornography or abuse and we desire for the truth to be exposed, whatever that may be. Our prayers are with their family as they walk through this difficult time."

Josh's parents Michelle Duggar and Jim Bob Duggar, meanwhile, wrote on their website, "We appreciate your continued prayers for our family at this time. The accusations brought against Joshua today are very serious. It is our prayer that the truth, no matter what it is, will come to light, and that this will all be resolved in a timely manner." They further noted, "We love Josh and Anna and continue to pray for their family."
Instagram TV

The reunion episode also sees Kandi Burruss and Porsha opening up about where their friendship stands today as they're now following each other on social media after years of ups and downs.

May 3, 2021

AceShowbiz - "The Real Housewives of Atlanta" aired season 13 reunion on Sunday, May 2. In the new episode of the Bravo reality show, the cast members discussed the Strippergate which took place at Cynthia Bailey's bachelorette party. The new outing also surprisingly hinted that Porsha Williams and new cast member LaToya Ali might hook up that night.

It started after host Andy Cohen asked, "There was a lot of talk about the coffee table action. Does anyone care to share what happened on the coffee table?" The ladies started gigling with Porsha responding, "That's one of the things that were blurry."

Porsha went on to say, "It came back to me that Toya was doing a thing on me, you know, or whatever...." Andy then asked, "Or whatever?" to which LaToya chimed in, "What's 'a thing on me'?"

Porsha then recalled the intimate moment which allegedly happened that night. "Your face was here," she said while pointing to her crotch. "My face was there?" LaToya asked to which Porsha replied, "Yes." When LaToya asked if she liked it, Porsha answered confidently, "Yeah!"

However, Porsha claimed that she "didn't really remember that." According to her, someone informed her that's what happened. "I still had on my costume, so it's not like she was [doing anything]," Porsha shared. Andy then noted that Porsha's costume was basically "a piece of dental floss" so LaToya's face was most likely close to Porsha's nearly naked crotch area. LaToya backed the assumption by saying, "I could have pulled them panties to the side."

The reunion episode also saw Kandi Burruss and Porsha opening up about where their friendship stands today as they're now following each other on social media after years of ups and downs. When asked if she had buried the hatchet with Porsha, Kandi shared, "I guess like, this year, it just seemed like, you know, it was headed in a much better direction. We were having a lot more fun together, around each other. And then when we were at Cynthia's event and she was showing support to DonJuan as well, I was like, 'Okay, now this is really a different situation.' "

"Even when Kandi and I have issues outside of the group, we'll talk about it over text and deal with it. And we deal with it and we leave it there," she went on to say.
WENN/Patricia Schlein Celebrity

Since his father Rocky Johnson's career forced him to frequently move schools, the 'Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle' actor is no stranger to questions about his gender identity.

May 3, 2021

AceShowbiz - Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson's life was famous as an action star, but there was a period of time in his life when he used to be mistaken for a girl. During a virtual interview with Willie Geist, the "Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle" star blamed his "soft features" for the frequent question about his gender identity.

In the Sunday, May 2 episode of "Sunday Sitdown", the 49-year-old looked back at the time when a kid thought he was a girl. "I sit down next to a kid, and within 60 seconds, he goes, 'Can I ask you something?' " he recalled being trolled on the school bus during his first day of school as a fifth grader. "I said, 'Yeah.' He goes, 'Are you a boy or a girl?' "

The "Fast and Furious" actor went on to admit that he was no stranger to such question during his childhood. "I would say between the ages of 7 and 11, people thought that I was a little girl," he recalled. On the reason why, he added, "Because I had really soft features and I had really soft Afro hair."

This happens because Dwayne's father Rocky Johnson's career as a professional wrestler forced him to travel extensively with his family. As the result, the half-Black and half-Samoan actor was required to frequently move schools and make new friends.

Elsewhere in the interview, Dwayne also discussed his presidential ambitions. The father of three said, "I have a goal and an interest and an ambition to unite our country. If this is what the people want, then I will do that." Elaborating further, he told host Willie, "If the time comes where there is a good amount of people who want to see that happen, then I'm going to consider it."

In April, the "Baywatch" actor shared his thought on the result of the poll by research company Piplsay that uncovered at least 46 percent of Americans would like to see him running for the White House. "Humbling," he wrote in an Instagram post at the time.

The former professional wrestler continued, "I don't think our Founding Fathers EVER envisioned a six-four, bald, tattooed, half-Black, half-Samoan, tequila drinking, pick up truck driving, fanny pack wearing guy joining their club." He then pointed out, "But if it ever happens it'd be my honor to serve you, the people."
Instagram Celebrity

When sharing the 'bad news' on social media, the Fat Amy depicter in 'Pitch Perfect' film series manages to encourage fellow women who also experience the same thing to remain hopeful.

May 3, 2021

AceShowbiz - Rebel Wilson managed to keep a positive attitude despite her fertility struggles. When opening up about her experience on social media, the Fat Amy depicter in "Pitch Perfect" noted that she hopes "there's light about to shine" after receiving the "bad news."

The 41-year-old beauty shared her story via Instagram on Sunday, May 2. "I got some bad news today and didnt have anyone to share it with...but I guess I gotta tell someone. To all the women out there struggling with fertility, I feel ya," she first penned alongside a photo of herself standing along the beach in front of a cloudy sky.

"The universe works in mysterious ways and sometimes it all doesn't make sense," the Australian native went on saying. "But I hope there's light about to shine through all the dark clouds."

The "Isn't It Romantic" actress has since been showered with support from her famous friends. One in particular was Sharon Stone who replied, "Been there repeatedly there is good news I have three beautiful sons." Her "Pitch Perfect" co-star Alexis Knapp added, "So sorry my love. Been through it [broken-heart emoji]."

This was not the first time Rebel got candid about her fertility journey. Back in December 2020, she divulged that she already froze her eggs before focusing on her weight loss program. "I was also freezing my eggs because - as all good, career women out there should note - that if that's something that interests you, it's a pretty good time to do it," she said during an Instagram Live.

"I was thinking about fertility and having good quality eggs in the bank, so I was like, 'Okay, I'm going to do this. I'm going to get healthy,' " the comedienne added. "And how I started is [that] I did go to a professional place to do a detox."
PictureLux Movie

The Walther P5 handgun is the highlight of the April 29's Hollywood Legends and Luminaries event at Julien's Auctions, while Bruce Lee's wooden nunchucks becomes the surprise of the sale.

May 3, 2021

AceShowbiz - The Walther P5 pistol from Sean Connery's final James Bond film, "Never Say Never Again", has sold at auction for over $106,000 (77,000).

The gun was the highlight of Thursday, April 29's Hollywood Legends & Luminaries and Hollywood Sci-Fi, Action, Fantasy & More events at Julien's Auctions, with martial arts legend Bruce Lee's wooden nunchucks becoming the surprise of the sale, going under the hammer for $83,200 (60,200) - 41 times their original estimate.

Other big sellers included Al Pacino's "Scarface" three-piece pinstripe suit, H.R. Giger's never-before-seen original "Big Chap" Prototype Translucent Xenomorph Alien Costume, Johnny Depp's "Edward Scissorhands" gloves, and Daniel Radcliffe and Alan Rickman's "Harry Potter" wands, which sold for a combined $147,840 (107,000).

Meanwhile, the .45 pistol that Pacino carried in 1995 film "Heat" went for $10,240. The auction additionally saw other famous weapons being put up for grabs. Brad Pitt's custom-made Bowie knife from Quentin Tarantino's "Inglourious Basterds" was sold for $32,000, whereas Arnold Schwarzenegger's Mr. Freeze rifle from "Batman & Robin" drew in $19,200.

Other notable sales included Tom Hanks' wooden ping pong paddle in "Forrest Gump" and Michelle Pfeiffer's Catwoman cowl from Tim Burton's 1992 film "Batman Returns". The two items collected $25,600 and $41,600 respectively.

This was not the first time Sean's handgun from his Bond movie was sold for high price at auction. Another Walther PP pistol, which was given to the late actor following the completion of 1962 spy thriller "Dr. No", collected $256,000 in December 2020. Prior to going under the hammer, the item was valued at between $150,000 and $200,000 by Julien's Auctions officials.
Instagram Celebrity

The rapper lets it slide when the fan touches his abs for the first time, but the 'One of Them Days Again' spitter snaps at her when she makes the same gesture for the second time.

May 4, 2021

AceShowbiz - Boosie Badazz (Lil Boosie) appeared to hate it when people invaded his personal space. One of his fans learned it the hard way when she attended the Baton Rouge rapper's show in Georgia on Saturday night, May 1.

In a video that circulated online from the night, Boosie could be seen shirtless while greeting the crowd. The female fan apparently couldn't hold the urge to touch his chest as she ran her hand up for it, not only once but twice.

Boosie let it slide when the fan touched his abs for the first time. However, when she made the same gesture for the second time, the "One of Them Days Again" spitter didn't hesitate to snap at her, yelling, "Keep your damn hands off me!"

Being touched like that, however, wasn't the worst thing he had experienced during his concerts. Back in 2019, shots were fired in the parking lot when he was performing for hundreds of patrons at the 3208 Club in Huntsville, Alabama as they rang in the New Year.

Miami-Herald reported that a man named Samuel Demario Williams started firing his AK-47 assault weapon. A club security guard drew his weapon and fired back at the man, shooting him in the thigh. He was then taken to local hospital for a treatment and was later charged with menacing, reckless endangerment and gun violations.

"Man I was just outside the club, 3208, and just had a muthaf**kin' shootout in front of the club -- like Wild, Wild West," Boosie addressed the incident in an Instagram post at the time. Recalling what happened that night, he continued writing, "Everybody ran out the club. S**t f**ked up."

"I wanna let everybody know, y'all gotta learn how to f***in' act at my show. For real, man. If y'all wanna see me, yall gotta learn how to act for real," he added.
REDDING, Calif.  A motorcyclist was involved in a crash in Redding near the beginning of Highway 44 downtown. A witness said one person was dead at the scene.

The crash happened on Highway 44 west of Park Marina Dr. Sunday, CHP said.

A witness said the driver of the motorcycle appeared to have hit a guard rail before going over the side of the highway and landing on the street below.

Investigators do not believe drugs or alcohol played a role in the crash.

This is a developing story. Action News Now will keep you updated with new information on-air and online.
(CNN) -- The Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna Covid-19 vaccines were found in the real world to be 94% effective against Covid-19 hospitalization among fully vaccinated adults ages 65 and older in the United States, according to a new US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention study.

The study also found that the vaccines were 64% effective among those older adults who were partially vaccinated, meaning they had only received one dose of vaccine so far.

These findings are consistent with the vaccines' clinical trial results, which showed an efficacy of about 94% to 95%, researchers from the CDC and several other institutions noted.

"These data suggest that continuing to rapidly vaccinate U.S. adults against COVID-19 will likely have a marked impact on COVID-19 hospitalization and might lead to commensurate reductions in post-COVID conditions and deaths," the researchers wrote in their study.

The study included data on 417 adults ages 65 and older with Covid-19-like symptoms who were admitted to 24 hospitals in 14 states between January 1 and March 26. Among those patients, 187 tested positive for the coronavirus that causes Covid-19 and 230 tested negative.

The researchers found that among those who tested positive, most were unvaccinated. Only 18 of the patients, or 10%, were partially vaccinated with a first dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines and just one person -- representing 0.5% -- was fully vaccinated.

Among the 230 adults who tested negative, 44 of them, or 19%, were partially vaccinated and 18, or 8%, were fully vaccinated, the data showed.

Overall, "these findings are encouraging and welcome news for the two-thirds of people aged 65 and up who are already fully vaccinated," CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky said in a news release on Wednesday.

"COVID-19 vaccines are highly effective and these real-world findings confirm the benefits seen in clinical trials, preventing hospitalizations among those most vulnerable," Walensky said. "The results are promising for our communities and hospitals. As our vaccination efforts continue to expand, COVID-19 patients will not overwhelm health care systems -- leaving hospital staff, beds, and services available for people who need them for other medical conditions."

The new study included data from California, Colorado, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas and Utah. More research is needed to determine whether similar findings would emerge across more states to represent the entire US population.

Similar findings have been found previously.

A separate study, published last week in the New England Journal of Medicine, found that among 417 employees at Rockefeller University in New York who were fully vaccinated with either the Pfizer or Moderna shots, only two of them -- also about 0.5% -- tested positive for Covid-19 later.

In March, pharmaceutical companies Pfizer and BioNTech announced that real-world evidence from the Israel Ministry of Health show that there have been "dramatically" fewer Covid-19 cases and deaths among people in Israel who have been fully vaccinated. That analysis found that the vaccine effectiveness was 94% in preventing asymptomatic Covid-19, where infections show no symptoms.

The-CNN-Wire

 &  2021 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved.
The HDFC Bank on Friday announced a major organisational change, reshuffling the portfolios of its core team. This is the first major rejig under the new managing director, Sashidhar Jagdishan.

Ravi Santhanam, currently the bank's chief marketing officer, will now also be responsible for driving digital marketing as a stand-alone delivery channel. Santhanam will additionally be responsible for the retail liability products and managed programmes at the bank. With digital payments, big data and analytics gaining more importance the entire banking sector is trying to catch up fast with the digital transformation.

Prior to joining the bank, Mr. Santhanam was working with Vodafone  first as its COO for Uttar Pradesh and later moved to Mumbai in 2013, to lead the newly created business vertical of Data, Devices, and Content & Innovation.

Mr. Santhanam has total experience of over 20 years and has also worked with Reliance Communications, ICICI Bank and PowerGen across functions including Strategy, M&A, and Business & Functional leadership roles.
MediaCom, a GroupM media agency today announced new appointments of Shekhar Sharma and Averill Sequeria. The agency has made two senior-level appointments, elevating the talent, and moving towards strengthening its core leadership team. Shekhar Sharma will take the role of Managing Partner (North & East), while Averill Sequeria will be joining as the Chief Product Officer.

Commenting on the appointments, Navin Khemka, Chief Executive Officer, MediaCom South Asia said, The media landscape is accelerating and ever-evolving. We want to continue to build on our strong track record of helping brands build campaigns that deliver results. Today brands want to communicate quickly and effectively, and we believe that together with our new appointments, we will be able to deliver more powerful work for our clients. With having Shekhar and Averill as a part of our team, I am convinced that theyre uniquely positioned to successfully drive the company and are here to put their best foot forward towards offering the best solution to our clients and strengthening our portfolio.

Shekhar in his new role he will be responsible for the offices, clients, and growth. He has been an accomplished Integrated marketing professional with experience in managing large media investments from global clients to large Indian conglomerates across different verticals. With over 25 years of diversified experience in Media and Marketing, Shekhars expertise ranges from crafting a media strategy, bringing in an insights-based approach to sharpen the strategic planning and deliver ROI for clients. In his previous stint as a Vice President for Platform Services in GroupM, he has been instrumental in spearheading a digital-first approach for brands varying from global to large Indian conglomerates and mid-sized businesses.

Whereas, Averill Sequeira will be leading Seeing the Bigger Picture, a MediaCom Creative Systems wherein they use the power of data to bring together media and creativity. Having successfully soft-launched in the US and Australia, its Creative Systems is now ready to roll out to the rest of the world. A GroupM alumni, with 18+ years in media, communications & consulting; she is an original thinker, working to bridge the worlds of data, digital media, strategy, and creativity. Her formative years were spent in developing audience insight tools & specializing in Marketing ROI/econometric modelling. In this decade of digital transformation, she has passionately championed the customer experience journey, with creative solutions using data and technology.
The PepsiCo Foundation has partnered with Sustainable Environment and Ecological Development Society (SEEDS), a leading not-for-profit organization, to launch an extensive community relief outreach program to support Government of Indias ongoing efforts against Covid-19. As part of the partnership, SEEDS will drive Covid -19 vaccinations for the community at large, set up Covid care centres equipped with beds and medical facilities including oxygen cylinders. Additionally, oxygen concentrators will also be provided to Central Government for distribution to various Government hospitals. The entire community relief program will be rolled out across the country with a special focus on five states -- Maharashtra, Punjab, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, and Telangana.

As part of the initiative, extensive awareness drives will also be organized across various states to promote vaccination amongst the population at large. These sessions will be conducted in partnership with NGOs including SEEDS along with the local Government authorities.

In the first phase of the program, over 1,00,000 vaccine doses will be provided to communities at large administered through the local healthcare system. Further, five Covid care centers would also be set up in key states for three months. Each centre will be equipped with beds and will have all key medical facilities including oxygen cylinders for emergency use, medical equipment, provision of meals among others. Additionally, over 100 state- of- the- art oxygen concentrators are also being procured and will be provided to various State Government authorities to support their on-ground requirements.

In the second phase, the PepsiCo Foundation will be rolling out partnerships with other NGOs to support the frontline Covid warriors with PPE kits, N95 and surgical 3 ply masks, pulse oximeters, sanitizers, etc.

On partnering with PepsiCo Foundation for the intervention program, Dr Manu Gupta, Co-Founder, SEEDS, said, "As India navigates through the second wave of Covid-19, we need to unite and look at ways to offer all the possible support to the ongoing efforts. Access to medical infrastructure in the affected marginalized communities is limited and makes survival rates much lower. The need of the hour, therefore, is to step up a robust vaccination drive, create Covid care centres and help facilitate the supply of critical needs such as oxygen. We are ready to work closely with PepsiCo Foundation in their efforts to mitigate the impact of the second wave of Covid-19 pandemic.

Ahmed ElSheikh, President, PepsiCo India, said, India is embattling the second wave of the pandemic and we all are facing a challenging situation. In these difficult times, it becomes even more important for businesses to come together and partner with Centre and State Governments, civil society, NGOs, and healthcare institutions to support communities in need. Vaccination is one way which can help us combat Covid-19 and we are thankful to have partners like SEEDS to front-end the community vaccination drives and set up Covid care centres. As a company, we will continue to do our best and stand with the Nation in these unprecedented times.

In addition to community care initiatives, PepsiCo India has also committed to cover the cost of vaccination for its employees and their spouses. As part of the same initiative, vaccinations drives are being organized in partnership with leading healthcare providers.
TECNO, the global premium smartphone brand, today announced its partnership with internationally renowned actor Chris Evans as its brand ambassador. Best known for his role as Captain America in the Marvel Universe series of films, the charismatic Chris Evans embodies many of the qualities that have been synonymous with TECNO, especially TECNOs Stop at Nothing brand philosophy which aims to inspire people to always keep young at heart and never stop pursuing excellence.

Talking about the partnership with TECNO, Chris Evans said, I am happy to partner with TECNO, an innovative smartphone brand which provides consumers in emerging markets with the newest smartphone technology. Whether its a phone call with someone you love or an image you capture to keep as a meaningful memory, smartphone technology is at the center of it all. It is really inspiring to work with such a great brand that stops at nothing to encourage people in those markets to explore more possibilities.

Stephen Ha, General Manager of TECNO Mobile, said,TECNO is committed to giving the masses access to latest technology, allowing the consumers to reach beyond their current limitations and uncover a world of possibilities. Chris Evans embodies TECNO's brand motto young at heart and the pursuit of excellence. This partnership with him enhances TECNO's continuous global footprint and helps to highlight the brands upgraded product design, which is increasingly fashionable, energetic, and constantly pioneering. I firmly believe the association will bring us an opportunity to grow within our existing customer base and enable us to go further on the brand globalization.

The partnership with Chris Evans is another milestone for TECNO after its association with Manchester City Football Club, and is part of TECNO global brand upgrading strategy, which aim to unlock the best of contemporary technologies in artistic designs, showcasing its mastery of serving the youth-generation consumers through the innovation, technological and artistic progression in the emerging markets worldwide.

Chris Evans will lead the launch of the coming TECNO CAMON 17 on May 6th, and will be featured in TECNO's brand campaigns in emerging markets. He will also see everyone at the virtual launch video on May 6th..
After collecting accolades around the world, Mansi and Veers heart-warming tale about embracing love, life and friendship in Hum Bhi Akele, Tum Bhi Akele is set to arrive on Disney+ Hotstar VIP. Actors Zareen Khan and Anshuman Jha portray the role of Mansi and Veer - two strangers and proud members of the LGBT+ community; who have more in common than they realise and chance upon each other at a bar while trying to escape their respective realities. The duo soon embark on a road trip that turns out to be a journey of a lifetime; as they drive from Delhi to Mcleodganj, Veer and Mansi discover that love is truly beyond gender.

Hum Bhi Akele, Tum Bhi Akele created big noise globally as it won over several international film critics and enthusiasts, and clinched the Best Film-Audience Choice award at the HBO South Asian International Film Festival, New York. Winning the Jury Award Best Actor (Anshuman Jha), Best Actress-Hindi Films (Zareen Khan) & Best Director (Harish Vyas) awards at the 2020 Rajasthan International Film Festival, Hum Bhi Akele, Tum Bhi Akele was also the centrepiece film at the IFFM Melbourne 2020 and was the Closing Night Gala Film nof Kashish 2020, Asia's biggest LGBTQ film festival. Written and directed by Harish Vyas and produced by First Ray Films, the film addresses homosexuality, friendship and love through its lead characters and their humane journey. Hum Bhi Akele, Tum Bhi Akele releases this 9th May 2021 exclusively for subscribers of Disney+ Hotstar VIP and Disney+ Hotstar Premium.

Director Harish Vyas said, Hum Bhi Akele, Tum Bhi Akele is a human story of a special friendship that blooms, by chance, between a man and woman - both homosexuals - who are not only polar opposites - think yin & yang, but have had completely different personal journeys so far. My endeavour with this film is to bring forth the warm, positive, loving embrace that is the soul of friendship & to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community which I have been close to. We are grateful to have had a universal audience in New York, Australia & all the festivals where the film was showered with love & several global recognitions. After "Angrezi Mein Kehte Hain'' I wanted to follow up With a light, compassionate journey to re-discover love & friendship. "Hum Bhi Akele, Tum Bhi Akele'' is the culmination of that thought. And I am hoping that it also receives a positive response from audiences watching it on Disney+ Hotstar VIP.

Actor Zareen Khan said, I was immediately drawn to the depth and emotionality of Mansi's character since the first time that I heard the narration of Hum Bhi Akele, Tum Bhi Akele by Harish Sir and post reading the screenplay - its unique storyline just hooked me. Just like Veer and Mansi's lives change after their road trip, Hum Bhi Akele, Tum Bhi Akele has been a life-changing experience for me and I do hope the film is able to relay the message that love is love - to even more people as it releases on Disney+ Hotstar VIP.

Actor Anshuman Jha said, The intent has been to bring forth a Pure' story. The Supreme Court of India has legalised homosexuality, but there is still a section of society that considers it a taboo in India and my character Veer hasnt mustered up the courage to speak openly to his family because he fears that they wont accept it too. With friendship & love at its core, Hum Bhi Akele, Tum Bhi Akele is a movie that will feel like a warm hug & hopefully inspire people to have more open conversations. Encourage Acceptance. We missed the theatre due to the Pandemic but I couldnt be happier that more audiences will be able to watch it on Disney+ Hotstar VIP. It's my last work which my mother saw before I lost her in 2020 & it's therefore even more special for me. 
WarnerMedia has elevated Deepa Sridhar to the role of Director of Marketing for South Asia. The appointment will be effective from May 1.

Concurrently, the Communications responsibilities for South Asia will now be led by Aastha Bansal.

In a statement, the company said, "The changes in roles and expanded responsibilities for both Deepa Sridhar and Aastha Bansal reflects the deep bench of talent we have within the organization. Both Deepa and Aastha will be reporting to their respective Marketing and Communications regional leads based in Singapore. We wish them both success in their new roles."

Sridhar joined the company in April 2016 and was the Director of Corporate Communications and CNN Marketing for South Asia. She has over two decades of experience in Public Relations and Corporate Communications.

Prior to joining WarnerMedia, she worked at J. Walter Thompson, Singapore Airlines, LinOpinion and Yo China to name a few.
Federal Department of Foreign Affairs

Bern, 03.05.2021 - Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis received the foreign minister of Burundi, Albert Shingiro, on a courtesy visit to Bern on 3 May 2021. Switzerland has a long-standing bilateral and multilateral commitment to peace and sustainable development in Burundi. During his stay in Bern, Mr Shingiro also met with the deputy state secretary of the FDFA, the director general of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), and the heads of the FDFA's Africa and Peace and Human Rights divisions.

In a one-on-one meeting, the head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) briefed Mr Shingiro on the Federal Council's new Sub-Saharan Africa Strategy 202124. The two foreign ministers discussed the good cooperation between their countries at bilateral and multilateral level as well as the human rights situation in Burundi. Mr Cassis called on Burundi to implement concrete reforms in this area and reaffirmed Switzerland's willingness to support the country in this regard.



Switzerland is active in Burundi within the framework of the regional cooperation programme for the Great Lakes, which comprises development cooperation, humanitarian aid and peacebuilding. In Burundi, Switzerland supports projects focused on economic development and vocational training, improving health and governance, conflict prevention and combating violence against women, among others.

As chair of the Burundi Configuration of the UN Peacebuilding Commission, since 2009 Switzerland has also advocated for coherent support from the international community to Burundi. Through the coordinated deployment of its foreign policy instruments, Switzerland promotes respect for human rights and contributes to reconciliation, sustainable development and poverty reduction in Burundi. Switzerland plays an important role as a bridge builder in this capacity.

Various aspects of Switzerland's bilateral and multilateral cooperation with Burundi were discussed in depth at a working meeting between Foreign Minister Shingiro and FDFA Deputy State Secretary Johannes Matyassy, SDC Director General Patricia Danzi, the head of the Africa Division, Siri Walt, and the head of the Peace and Human Rights Division, Simon Geissbuhler.

Sub-Saharan Africa is one of the priority regions of the International Cooperation Strategy 202124. In its Foreign Policy Strategy 202023, the Federal Council identified peace and security, prosperity and sustainability as priorities for sub-Saharan Africa.

Mr Shingiro has been visiting several European capitals since 26 April and was received in Bern on 3 May.

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

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Federal Department of Foreign Affairs

https://www.eda.admin.ch/eda/en/home.html




More than three-fourths of North Dakota remains in severe drought on the U.S. Drought Monitor after rain/snow events at the end of April.

The rest of the state is mostly dry and in need of more moisture as planting season gets underway.

In addition, the last weeks in April saw colder temperatures, with possibilities for frost.

The drought conditions have not stopped producers from seeding small grains throughout the state, especially in the western region.

There are several producers that were out seeding in March, but that seed may have been sitting there waiting for moisture, said Max Robison, NDSU Extension agent in Bowman County in the southwestern region. We have had many seeding in April, mostly small grains.

Producers are waiting for soil temperatures to warm up before seeding some higher risk crops  soybean, flax, canola and peas.

Producers may have seeded some small grains, but they are being more careful about seeding oilseeds and soybeans, at least until they have to get things in by the insurance dates, he said.

Robison is also a rancher in Slope County, which is north of Bowman County, and said it has been dry throughout the southwestern region of the state.

We are hoping for some timely showers this spring, he added.

For the week ending April 23, USDA reports 22 percent of spring wheat and 10 percent of durum acres had been planted in North Dakota, along with 15 percent of sugarbeets.
The annual Ride to Farm event will be held June 5. The bicycle ride raises awareness and funds for the Wisconsin School for Beginning Dairy an
CORN------

Corn closed the week 38  cents higher. Private exporters announced sales of 101,600 metric tons (mts) to an unknown destination.

In the weekly export inspections report, U.S. corn exports were very strong at 76.8 million bushels (mb) and a three-week high. Over the last nine weeks, U.S. corn exports have averaged 75 mb per week versus the roughly 50 million per week estimated that is needed over the remaining 19 weeks of the marketing year in order to reach the USDA's projection. There are still more than one billion bushels (bb) in unshipped sales currently on the books, double the remaining sales on the books at this time last year. Cumulative export inspections of 1.623 bb are up 84% from last year's 883 million.

In the weekly crop progress and conditions report, US corn planting is 17% complete versus 17% expected, 8% last week, 24% last year, and 20% average. Corn emergence stands at 3% versus 4% on average.

In the weekly EIA report, U.S. ethanol production ticked higher to 945,000 barrels per day (bpd) from 941,000 bpd the week prior and was 76.0% larger than last year's COVID low of the year of 537,000 bpd. While ethanol production last week was mostly steady, stocks posted the largest decline in six weeks, falling to 829 million gallons from 859 mil gallons (20.447 mil barrels) the week prior, the lowest in 26 weeks and the lowest on a same-week basis since 2014.

Strategy and outlook: With new highs recorded and the next fundamental news focusing on spring planting, producers should consider accepting profits on long positions and begin to hedge 2021 production and establish a minimum price floor. Look for highs to be made in the spring to summer timeframe.
Conterra Ag Capital is a little different than the average ag lender. They deal in unique financial relief in American agriculture.

You could think of them as the Coast Guard of the ag lending industry. They will render assistance to producers when things look bleak and other institutions have written them off.

Most farm credit is handled by banks and other regulated institutions, said Paul Erickson, Conterra President and CEO. If a loan becomes a criticized asset, they have to push out or foreclose.

The regulated finance system doesnt assist those farmers. It is a situation that is significantly unique in ag, he said. Regulated lenders cannot re-originate a criticized asset. Producers can be left drowning in a sea of debt. Thats when the sharks  in the form of unrestricted creditors  can start circling.

I have seen predatory lenders offering up to 35% interest, Erickson said.

With more than 25 years of experience in ag finance and business development, Erickson has been instrumental in creating Conterra ag real estate lending options to fill voids in the marketplace. He offers a lifeline to those producers.

Our funds are primarily dedicated to re-financing those troubled loans, Erickson said. We can offer an interest-only product to rehab credit; get them back to performing status.

Farmers are generally land rich and cash poor. Conterra has a full range of lending options from the traditional, or A credit borrowers, to alternative lending for those who might be experiencing some stress in their operations.
Honeykomb Brazy concertgoers in Dothan on Saturday had to watch a relative step in for the rapper, after he was arrested by Dothan police hours before the performance.

Brazy, whose real name is Nahshon Jones, was arrested on drug and gun charges in Mobile County, according to jail records.

A video, posted to YouTube on Sunday, shows the rapper with his hands raised up in the air, as a two officers point guns in his direction. Jones is later arrested without incident and put into the back of a police vehicle before being driven away.

Jones was charged with first-degree marijuana possession and certain persons forbidden to possess a pistol. The Alabama rappers cousin took over for Jones at Saturdays concert, according to his Instagram page.

Free him, Jones cousin said in the posts caption, which features him rapping on a crowded stage. A previous post from Jones cousin features him and the rapper posing together with the caption, Me n Buz connected like bunk Beds. Rip grandpa n grandma.

The last part of the caption alludes to a February incident in north Mobile, where Jones grandparents Lelia and Tony Lewis died in a house fire. Police later announced that their deaths would be investigated as homicides.

Long live grandma n grandpa, yall was my heart fr, Jones said in Februarys Instagram post.

Jones is currently being held in the Mobile County Metro Jail, booked in with gun charges and on charges related to a recent grand jury indictment for marijuana possession, according to jail records.
Gov. Kay Ivey announced today that Alabamas state of emergency related to the COVID pandemic will end July 6 and her public health order from the COVID-19 pandemic is set to end May 31.

The health order ends May 31 unless there is a major surge in COVID-19 cases, the governors office said.

We have learned much since last year, and this is absolutely now a managed pandemic, Ivey said in a press release. Our infection rates and hospitalizations are in better shape, and over 1.5 million Alabamians have had at least one shot of the COVID-19 vaccine.

Alabamians have consistently stepped up to the plate over the course of this pandemic, and I know they will continue to do so. I am pleased that we have shown the rest of the country that we are gritty and determined. We are signaling loud and clear that Alabama is open, and we are moving forward.

The Safer Apart health order now consists mostly of recommendations aligned with CDC guidance. Specific guidance applies to two groups. Senior citizen centers operate under guidelines issued by the Alabama Department of Senior Services. Hospitals and nursing homes are under guidance from the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services on visitation. Those last remaining requirements should be lifted with the expiration of the order May 31, barring a great spike in cases, Iveys office said.

State Health Officer Dr. Scott Harris said, As we approach the fourteenth month of this pandemic, we are pleased that two-thirds of Alabama residents age 65 and older have been vaccinated. While some barriers such as transportation remain, more than 1,300 providers in the state are administering safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine in communities throughout the state.

We are very appreciative of Governor Ivey and our excellent working relationship with the Alabama National Guard. The state is really fortunate to have these men and women to support us. Guard members have concluded six weeks of vaccination clinics in 24 rural and underserved counties, and now are planning smaller mobile sites in each public health district to offer vaccine to hard-to-reach populations. I am excited about the progress that has been made.

All Alabamians 16 and older have been eligible for vaccinations since April 5. Ivey continues to encourage Alabamians to get the safe and effective vaccine.

Look, I have been vaccinated. I believe in the science, believe that it works and have confidence in it. So, like I said, I have been fully vaccinated, and I will live like I have been fully vaccinated. Similar to when we ended the mask requirement, this final extension gives all Alabama health care providers, businesses and individuals adequate time to make preparations, Ivey said.
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Former U.S. Sen. Doug Jones of Alabama has joined a Washington, D.C., law firm.

Arent Fox LLP announced today that Jones will join its Government Relations and Government Enforcement & White Collar division, along with his former senate staff member Cissy Jackson.

Jones was elected in 2017 and served in the U.S. senate from 2018 until leaving office in January 2021, after he lost his Nov. 3, 2020 bid for re-election to U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville.

Arent Foxs Government Relations practice is one of the most experienced, effective, and respected lobbying teams in the nation, the statement said. Our team offers insight into the inner workings of Capitol Hill and the Executive Branch from former Members of Congress, Administration officials, and senior staff.

Jones said he will be working as an attorney, not lobbying. I am not registering as a lobbyist, he said.

Jones will join another former U.S. senator, Byron Dorgan, who represented North Dakota from 1992-2011 and now works for Arent Fox.

Im so proud that Senator Doug Jones has chosen to join our firm, Dorgan said in a statement. He and his colleague Cissy Jackson will be such a strong addition to our Government Relations practice and great advisors to our clients. "

Jones and Jackson will focus particularly on issues in the National Security, Health Care, and Financial Services industries, the statement from Arent Fox said.

We are extraordinarily pleased to have Senator Jones and Cissy Jackson join Arent Fox, said Firmwide Managing Partner Cristina A. Carvalho. Along with our other former Members Sen. Byron Dorgan and Rep. Phil English, they offer a remarkable amount of leadership, knowledge, and experience in key policy areas around national security, healthcare, civil rights, and the banking and insurance sectors and will be key members of our white collar enforcement and False Claims Act teams. Their addition brings a tremendous amount of proven strategic, policy, and business expertise that will be a great resource for our clients across the nation and globally. In addition, we expect them to support our firms Center for Racial Equality and Arent Foxs commitment to civil rights legal work.

The statement from Arent Fox highlighted the following accomplishments of Jones and Jackson:

Senator Jones Experience

 While in the U.S. Senate, Senator Jones served on the Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs; Armed Services; and Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions committees.

 After working in private practice, Senator Jones was nominated by President Bill Clinton in 1997 to serve as U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Alabama. As U.S. Attorney, Senator Jones successfully prosecuted Thomas Edwin Blanton Jr. and Bobby Frank Cherry, two members of the Ku Klux Klan, for their roles in the 1963 16th Street Baptist Church bombing.

 Senator Jones left the U.S. Attorneys office in 2001 and returned to private practice. In 2007, the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute gave Jones its 15th Anniversary Civil Rights Distinguished Service Award. In 2013, he formed the Birmingham firm Jones & Hawley, PC before winning his Senate election in 2017.

Cissy Jacksons Experience

 Before joining Arent Fox, Cissy served as both Counsel and National Security Adviser to Senator Jones. As Counsel, she advised the Senator on immigration and border security, civil rights, firearms, criminal legal system reform, judicial nominees, impeachment, and the Mueller investigation.

 Cissy developed great depth on defense and foreign affairs policy while assisting the Senator on annual defense authorization and appropriations bills and other relevant legislation. In this capacity, Cissy worked with staff on both sides of the aisle, senior Pentagon leadership, and defense industry stakeholders.

 Before joining the Senators staff, Cissy was in the private practice of law, handling white collar, False Claims Act, grand jury investigations, and commercial property tax appeal matters. She has represented multinational corporations, small businesses, and individuals in high-stakes civil and criminal litigation.

 After graduating from law school, Cissy served as a law clerk to the Honorable Sam C. Pointer, Chief Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Alabama.
HBOs new true crime documentary series Generation Hustle features the city of Opelika and Roundhouse, the startup business incubator founded by now-convicted felon Kyle Sandler.

The series, which dropped on HBO Max Thursday, features interviews from several Opelika residents familiar with Sandler and Roundhouse in its ninth episode entitled The Alabama Exit.

The episode features interviews of acquaintances, city leaders and former coworkers of Sandlers including former Roundhouse employee Emily Baas, Ampersand Owner Nelson Marsh, now-suspended District Attorney Brandon Hughes, Dr. George Purves, former Opelika-Auburn News reporter Meagan Hurley and Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller.

While Fuller said he wished the episode had shown more of the good side of the Opelika community, he said HBO had pretty much told the story of what happened.

Kyle Sandler was a con artist, and he came in and conned some folks out of some money and got put in prison for it, Fuller said. I hate it for those folks that really lost and were disappointed, and hopefully theyll come back stronger and better than ever.

Sandler, who started the Roundhouse in 2014, closed the business about two years after it opened and after about $2 million dollars had been put into the company by more than 50 investors.

The episode begins with Sandlers arrival to the city of Opelika, false claims he made about being one of the original Google employees and the initial success and excitement around the business incubator.

Everyone says, Kyle Sandler, former Google employee. Nobody ever bothered to check that, Sandler says in an audio recording on the ninth episode of Generation Hustle. One of the things to look at was how easy it was for me to  anything I said was taken as gospel.

As the episode goes on, it explores Sandlers association with millionaire businessman John McAffee, Sandlers guidance of then-14-year-old Opelika native Taylor Rosenthal and his business idea for first-aid vending machine RecMed, and Sandlers eventual closure of Roundhouse and arrest after his lies began to unravel.

After closing Roundhouse unexpectedly in 2016 when Sandler said the business ran out of money, he was arrested in Brazos County, Texas, on Lee County warrants in June 2018 and was brought back to Alabama.

U.S. District Judge W. Keith Watkins sentenced Sandler to five years and three months in prison for federal charges in March 2019 and ordered Sandler to return $1.9 million to investors.

Your job from this day forward is to make your actions align with your words, Watkins told Sandler at his sentencing hearing.

Remorse doesnt begin to say it, Sandler told the judge during a February 2019 court appearance. Im disgusted with myself.

Two months after Roundhouse closed, Collaboration Station moved into the Roundhouses former location on South Eighth Street in downtown Opelika and provides coworking and office spaces for businesses to rent.

Fuller said the city of Opelika is as successful as its ever been despite the incident involving Sandler and the Roundhouse and that local businesses have still found a way to thrive there.

Opelika didnt miss a beat when the Roundhouse went out of business, Fuller said. We were sorry that it did, and we were sorry folks lost money, but our community is too resilient and weve been successful with business and industry.  Our community is too strong and weve come too far, and (Sandler) was just a blip on the radar. It wasnt something we all went into mourning for weeks and weeks about. We kept on going.
On the opening day of the murder trial of Huntsville police officer William Ben Darby, the lead prosecutor told potential jurors that the case is not a referendum on law enforcement.

I want to be real clear: Were talking about the actions of an individual who just happens to be a police officer, said Tim Gann, Madison Countys Chief Trial Attorney. Its not an indictment of police and its not an indictment of the Huntsville Police Department. Its an indictment of one individual.

Darby is on trial this week for shooting and killing 43-year-old Jeff Parker on April 3, 2018. Parker called police to his home in west Huntsville that afternoon and said he was armed and suicidal.

Theres no dispute that Darby killed Parker. The question for a jury to answer this week is whether that killing was murder or a justified homicide. Darby is arguing that he killed Parker in defense of himself or other officers.

For a shooting to be considered legally justified under Alabama law, the shooter must reasonably believe the other person is using or about to use deadly physical force. Gann said police officers dont have any more protection under the law than any other person.

Defense attorney Robert Tuten told the jury pool that Darby does not have to prove that he acted in self-defense, rather the state has to prove he didnt.

Gann told the potential jurors that they would see graphic images and video if selected to serve during the trial. Body camera video played in court two years ago showed Parker sitting on a couch with a gun pointed to his own head when Darby shot him in the face with a shotgun.

Attorneys for the prosecution and defense spent most of Monday telling a pool of 60 potential jurors about the case and asking them a series of wide-ranging questions.

About a third of the potential jurors said they had heard or read about the case in the news media.

The lawyers asked the potential jurors about experiences they or their families have had with suicide and mental illness. The attorneys and the judge discussed sensitive questions with individual jurors in private.

The lawyers also questioned jurors about their relationships, connections and experiences with police and the justice system. Tuten asked the jurors if they were familiar with high-profile killings by police, including the deaths of Daunte Wright, Breonna Taylor and Michael Brown. He also asked whether the jurors were familiar with two local people who were killed by police: Dana Fletcher in Madison and Brad Pugh in Huntsville.

Gann, the lead prosecutor on the case, asked the jurors whether they believe there is a war on police. He alluded to a small group of protesters who stood outside the courthouse. Gann said that jurors should not consider any outside influences in reaching their verdict.

Catherine Hereford, one of three people protesting on Monday morning, said her message of police accountability is aimed at city leaders, not jurors. She called for the city and Huntsville police to hold officers accountable when they kill someone.

Darby is still a Huntsville police officer, and the city is using public money to pay up to $125,000 toward his criminal defense.

Before jury selection began, Madison County Circuit Judge Donna Pate assured the potential jurors that COVID-19 safety precautions be taken seriously during the trial. As part of those safety precautions, the public is not allowed to be inside the courtroom this week. Instead, people who want to view the trial will watch a live stream in the old license office on the first floor of the courthouse. Members of the news media are watching the trial from a separate conference room.

The trial will resume on Tuesday at 8:30 a.m. Lawyers will make their opening statements after the judge briefly instructs the jury.

So far just seven witnesses are scheduled to testify, Gann said. Darby is also expected to take the stand in his own defense.

Correction: An earlier version of this story incorrectly stated that opening statements were expected on Monday.
Alabama is changing the way candidates for city offices report to the public who gave to their campaigns and how they used the money.

Gov. Kay Ivey has signed into law a bill that requires municipal candidates to file their campaign finance reports electronically with the secretary of states office. Municipal candidates now file paper reports with their county probate judge.

The electronic reports go in a searchable data base on the secretary of states website.

The change starts Aug. 1, 2023, Secretary of State John Merrills office said in a press release.

Rep. Andy Whitt, R-Harvest, who sponsored the bill, said the change will help both candidates and the public.

Running for municipal office in cities which span multiple counties can be especially burdensome on candidates and those looking to access campaign finance documents, Whitt said. This legislation will streamline the filing process and greatly increase transparency in our elections.

Another change in Whitts bill applies to county and state offices. It repeals a provision that says candidates who raise and spend less than $5,000 threshold dont have to file electronically.

Merrill said he supported the changes.

By utilizing one centralized database, candidates and voters alike will be able to more easily track information, Merrill said in a press release. Our office is excited to offer this one-stop shop for campaign finance documents, and we appreciate the diligent work of Representative Whitt and probate judges across the state, as well as the full cooperation and endorsement from the Alabama League of Municipalities.
A petition calling for large monthly stimulus checks to help buffer the economic blows caused by the coronavirus pandemic has garnered more than 2 million signatures.

The petition seeking $2,000 monthly stimulus checks was first started last year on Change.org by Colorado restaurant owner Stephanie Bonin, Business Insider reported.

Were out of work and out of cash, Bonin wrote in an update following President Joe Biden taking office. Another single check wont solve our problems  people are just too far behind. Like weve been saying from the beginning of this pandemic, people need to know when the next check is coming. And the best thing our government can do right now is send emergency money to the people on a monthly basis.

In addition to the $2,000 monthly checks, the petition asks Congress to approve $1,000 monthly payments for dependents.

Congress needs to make sure that we wont be financially ruined for doing our part to keep the country healthy, Bonin said.

There have been three rounds of stimulus checks since the start of the pandemic. The first, approved in March 2020, included payments of up to $1,200, followed by payments of up to $600 in December of the same year. Then, in March, Congress passed a third round of up to $1,400 per person.

President Biden hasnt commented directly on the possibilities of a fourth stimulus check but addressed the importance of the financial aid in his address to Congress last week.

Weve already sent more than 160 million checks out the door. Its making a difference, Biden said. For many people, its making all the difference in the world.

Several members of Congress agree. A group of Democratic Representatives and Senators have sent separate letters to the White House to push for recurring monthly payments. Those efforts are expected to face stiff opposition from Republicans, however.
A woman who, along with her two sons, was found slain inside a vehicle partially submerged in an Alabama lake is being remembered as a jewel in the crown of her job as a caretaker in a skilled nursing facility.

Remona Hudson, 36, and her boys, Kyle, 12, and Kailb, 13, were found dead April 26 in Lake Eufaula. The bodies were discovered at 7:18 a.m. that Monday in the blue Toyota sedan in the water near Creek Town Park. Barbour County Coroner Chip Chapman said the victims were dead before their vehicle was pushed into the water.

A woman jogging spotted the vehicle and called police.

Few details have been publicly released in the case, but 26-year-old Demetrius Devonte McGhee, of Clayton, Alabama, is charged with four counts of capital murder. Court records show each of the victims were shot with a handgun.

Demetrius McGhee (Alabama Law Enforcement Agency)

McGhee was taken into custody April 28 after being released from a hospital where he was flown after sustaining undisclosed injuries. The victims lived in Cuthbert, Georgia which is about 25 miles east of Eufaula. Efforts to reach his attorney for comment were not immediately successful. Those who knew Hudson said she and McGhee had been in some kind of dating relationship at some point.

Hudson worked as a certified nursing assistant at Crowne Health Care of Eufaula, which serves both short-term and long-term patients, or residents. She worked the 11 p.m. to 7 a.m. shift.

Her residents loved her to death,' said co-worker Cindy Williams, who had previously been Hudsons supervisor at the facility. She was very soft spoken, knew her job, did her job, took care of them. They were totally devastated when they found out what happened.

Co-workers often gave Hudson rides to and from work because she didnt have transportation. Just two weeks before she was killed, she had bought her Toyota. She was so proud of that car,' Williams said.

When her co-workers got to the facility that Monday morning, they had no idea anything had happened. Then they saw news reports and a photo of the partially submerged car and one of Hudsons co-workers immediately recognized it as Hudsons. Moments later, they learned Hudson had not shown up for work the previously night and no one had been able to reach her.

As the day went on, things played out and it was eventually released that it was Remonas car,' Williams said. Its been a very difficult week for us.

In addition to caring for her residents, Williams said, Hudson also cared for her mother who is in a wheelchair.

A GoFundMe has been set up to help with expenses of Hudsons family. Donations can be made here.

Her sons funerals were held Saturday in Georgia. Hudson was cremated, and her ashes were placed on a table alongside her photo between her sons two caskets at the service. A memorial service for Hudson will be held at a later time.

Williams said she wants Hudson remembered for her kindness and her devotion to her sons. She was very kind, and very pretty in spirit and in looks,' she said. She was one of those people you would always want to take care of your loved one.
A man from Double Springs was killed in a two-vehicle crash that occurred early Sunday morning in Walker County, Alabama State Troopers said in a news release.

Troopers said Gregory Cleghorn, 46, was killed in the crash Sunday around 2:35 a.m. on Fall City Road, about eight miles north of Jasper.

According to the news release, Cleghorn was driving a 1996 Ford Explorer when he failed to yield the right of way from a stop sign and pulled out in front of a 2011 Kia Sportage. The Explorer left the roadway and overturned after impact. Cleghorn was pronounced dead on the scene.

Troopers from the Alabama Law Enforcement Agencys Highway Patrol Division continue to investigate.
The Birmingham Police Department is partnering with Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Incorporated to host a Spring Gun Buyback.

The buyback will be held on Saturday, May 8, at First Ebenezer Baptist Church Fellowship House located at 420 Graymont Ave. North. The event will be held from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

Organizers say there will be no questions asked of anyone turning a firearm. The weapons will be turned in and secured by BPD range staff to assure safety.

This is one of many calls for actions to fight against gun violence occurring in our communities,' said Sgt. Rod Mauldin.

Community members turning over guns will be given a Walmart gift card for taking an initiative to combat gun violence, Mauldin said. Gift cards will be provided on a scale based on the type of firearm turned in.
A Jefferson County grand jury upped the charges against a father previously arrested in the blunt force trauma death of his young son.

Demetric Hampton Sr., 27, was initially charged with murder in the 2020 death of 2-year-old Demetric Hampton Jr. The grand jury indicted him April 9, 2021 on charges of capital murder and aggravated child abuse, according to newly-released court records. The boys stepmother, Terrica Harris, was indicted on a single charge of aggravated child abuse.

Hampton has been held in the Jefferson County Jail since his initial arrest on May 13, 2020. His bond is set at $160,000.

Demetric Jr. was just 12 days shy of his third birthday when he died May 13, 2020 at Childrens of Alabama, a little over an hour after he was first brought to the Birmingham hospital. The boys mother died in 2018 when she was hit by a vehicle on Interstate 59/20.

Jefferson County sheriffs deputies at 12:30 a.m. that Wednesday were called to the 1600 block of Sixth Street N.W. in Center Point on a report of a child not breathing. When they arrived on the scene, the parents told lawmen he had been eating and then began to choke. The boy was taken to Childrens of Alabama where doctors discovered he had multiple injuries. Demetric was pronounced dead at 1:46 a.m.

Hampton, said Sgt. Joni Money on Friday, told deputies his son had been eating and had started choking. He said he removed the food from the childs airway and began life-saving efforts. Hampton said his wife, was not at home at the time, but arrived home shortly before medics made it to the scene.

Demetric Hampton Jr. (Contributed)

Further investigation revealed the toddler had multiple injuries and burns that were not consistent with the parents stories, Money said. There were multiple other young children in the Hampton home, including Demetrics twin sister.

Court records show Hampton was arrested April 5, 2020 on charges of third-degree domestic violence, resisting arrest, endangering the welfare of a child and obstruction of justice. Harris was arrested at the same time on charges of disorderly conduct, endangering the welfare of a child, resisting arrest and obstruction of justice.

Jefferson County sheriffs deputies responded to the residence after they received an anonymous call that a couple was arguing in the driveway. The caller told deputies the man had a gun, and the female was in her vehicle trying to leave.

Harris, who also goes by Terrica Hampton, became irate that deputies were there, charging documents state, and immediately began yelling and cussing. Hampton was holding their 9-month-old son, deputies wrote in their report. Harris took the baby from Hampton.

Harris continued to argue with deputies, who then asked her to hand over the baby. When she refused, documents state, Hampton punched her in the face with a closed fist. The baby boy was hit in the lip, which started to bleed.

Deputies broke up the fight between the couple. One of the deputies was knocked over in the struggle.

Hampton was then tased but continued to resist. In all, five children were released into the custody of a grandmother that night. Court records indicated the entire ordeal was captured on deputies body cameras.

Birmingham attorneys Tommy James of Tommy James Law and Jeremy Knowles of Morris Haynes last week filed a wrongful death lawsuit on behalf of the boys estate. They filed the lawsuit against the Alabama Department of Human Resources, the director of the Jefferson County Department of Human Resources, Hampton Sr. and yet-to-be identified DHR caseworkers.

The lawsuit alleges DHR returned Demetric to his father and stepmother shortly after they had been arrested in the April case, and Demetric was dead 38 days later.

According to the lawsuit, Hampton had a long history with DHR before Demetrics death. In fact, DHR had taken custody of his oldest daughter - Demetrics oldest sister- at birth. Additionally, when Demetric and his twin sister were born, DHR immediately gave custody of them to their maternal grandmother.

James contends DHR has been aware of Hamptons history of child abuse and neglect since the birth of his first child and violated policy by placing Demetric back with his father and stepmother, despite his history of prior abuse and their recent criminal charges directly related to endangering children.
A 48-year-old man has been convicted in the 2016 shooting death of an Alabaster store clerk during a robbery.

A Shelby County jury convicted Michael Anthony Powell, who was a convicted robber at the time of his arrest in the deadly shooting, of capital murder in the killing of 54-year-old Tracy Latty Algar at the Kirkland Chevron that Sunday morning more than four years ago. Algar was killed execution-style in the bathroom of the convenience store. Only several hundred dollars were taken in the holdup.

The trial lasted more than a week and when it was over, the jury recommended Powell be sentenced to death, said Shelby County District Attorney Jill Lee. Presiding Circuit Judge Bill Bostick will sentence Powell on May 24.

The case was investigated by Alabaster detectives Jason Higgins and Josh Rauch. During the penalty phase hearing, prosecutors presented evidence of Powells prior violent felonies, which included second-degree assault and two counts of third-degree robbery.

Michael Anthony Powell was convicted in the 2016 killing of Tracy Algar during a robbery at a Shelby County convenience store.

Algar, who only worked every third Sunday at the store, was killed not long after she got to work that Sunday morning. The store opened at 9 a.m. and, sometime in the next couple of hours, police say, Powell entered, stole cash and then shot Algar to death. The slaying happened sometime between 9 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. A customer made the discovery about 11:15 a.m.

The cameras inside the store had not been working for some time, knocked out by lightning a long time ago, Algars family said. But, based on surveillance video from neighboring businesses, detectives Powell as a person of interest in the case and have been working around the clock to crack the case.

Powell was seen in the area of the Chevron between 10:45 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. that Sunday. He was wearing a white shirt, dark pants and a black fedora. Authorities said he walked from his apartment to the Chevron and walked back home after the robbery and killing.

Michael Anthony Powell was convicted in the 2016 killing of Tracy Algar during a robbery at a Shelby County convenience store.

All we know is that he just walked in there and killed her,' said one of Algars sisters, Lisa Jones, shortly after the slaying. She closed her eyes and woke up with Jesus.

In a 2016 interview with AL.com, family members described Algar as a shining light with a strong faith and a devotion to her family.

Much of her time was spent in church-related activities - Bible study, the Welcome Outreach Team and Sisters of the Table. She worshiped her God with such joy,' her mother said. She loved uplifting gospel music. She would ask questions about the Bible and God, and when I didnt have an answer for her, she would add it to her list to ask Jesus when she got to Heaven.

About 11 years before her death, Algar suffered a stroke which somewhat affected her speech. It was something she was self-conscious about, but family members said her job at Kirkland Chevron restored her confidence because of daily interactions with the public. She loved her job,' her sister, Jones, said. She was a very positive influence. She always tried to keep a smile on her face, especially with her customers. You could see a light shining through Tracy.

Powell was arrested in a predawn raid at his Third Street apartment in Alabaster shortly after 5 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 4. Lawmen tossed a stun grenade, or flashbang, into the ground-floor unit and captured Powell while he was asleep in his bed. Powell said nothing and didnt appear surprised as he was led from his home at The View Apartments that morning.

Powell was released from prison in 2015 after serving 17 years for robbery. Court records show Powell was convicted of two counts of robbery and one count of escape in Covington County in southern Alabama in 1998. He was sentenced to 20 years in prison for each of the three convictions - to be served concurrently - and went to prison on May 14, 1998. His release date was scheduled for April 4, 2018 but he was paroled on Oct. 1, 2015. He served 17 years, nine months and 21 days.

In that case, Powell also robbed a convenience store - Mr. Henrys No. 3 on South Three Notch Street. The victim told police Powell held a handgun on him and told him to give him the cash register, which contained $402.38. According to the victim, Powell had previously been in the store and he was able to identify him from a lineup.

Prior to that, he had been convicted - also in Covington County - on charges of theft of property and two counts of receiving stolen property. He served one year, one month and 23 days for those convictions.
Charges have been upgraded against the driver who crashed into a Joyride cart in Tuscaloosa, seriously injuring two University of Alabama students.

Tuscaloosa police said an officer patrolling the Strip heard a loud crash and saw smoke in the air before he rushed to the crash site in the area of Rounders and Quick Grill at about 10:30 p.m. Friday. A Jeep Cherokee had pinned the cart against a van, and two victims were on the ground with serious injuries.

William Brown, 32, the driver of the Cherokee, was taken into custody and initially charged first- and second-degree assault. TPD spokeswoman Stephanie Taylor on Monday said the second-degree assault charge has been upgraded to first-degree assault. Authorities also added a DUI charge. His bonds now total $65,000.

Investigators determined that Brown had been speeding through the Publix parking lot before he ran the stop sign entering University Boulevard and crashed into the Joyride and the van. The injured victims are an 18-year-old woman and a 19-year-old man. Both remain hospitalized with serious injuries.

The Joyride driver also later sought treatment for less serious injuries.

Joyride is a service operating in multiple cities, particularly in high-density areas such as college campuses. Patrons use an app to book and pay for rides in situations where its too far to walk but too close to drive. It says its low-speed gas-powered vehicles meet applicable safety standards and are driven by trained and certified operators. Featured services in Tuscaloosa include campus tours.

Brown, of Holt, could face additional charges once the case is presented to a grand jury.
This is an opinion column.

The Compassion Act (SB 46) is one vote away from passage in the Alabama legislature. Introduced by Sen. Tim Melson (R-Florence), a physician and medical researcher by trade, the bill would legalize the heavily regulated use of medical cannabis for specific conditions.

Last week, a group of district attorneys (not the Alabama District Attorneys Association, to be clear) from around the state wrote a letter to members of the House urging them to vote no on the bill.

I was profoundly disappointed when I read the letter. Not because some are opposed to any legalization of a substance weve only known in the context of illegal, recreational use. People can disagree in good faith about the calculus of risk versus reward on issues like these. What shocked me was that a group of prosecutors--people we depend on to operate with the utmost integrity--would publicly misrepresent the bills contents and the motivations of its proponents in Alabama.

The letter is a case study in straw man fallacies. For several lengthy paragraphs, the signers complain about myths and junk science (while offering the same as a rebuttal) and talk about all the bad things observed in Colorado, where recreational marijuana is legal.

Were making a decision about an orange, and theyre engaging in hyperbole about the perils of apples.

The actual bill would allow medical cannabis use for a limited number of diagnoses, including autism, cancer, and epilepsy. Prescribing physicians must be authorized by the State Board of Medical Examiners, complete continuing education on the subject, and pass an exam. SB 46 requires that medical cannabis be grown in our state under strict oversight and dispensed only through select, licensed dispensaries.

If theres a knock on the bill for conservatives like me, its that it does create more government bureaucracy. We are hard-wired on the right to resist government expansion. But if a reason to indulge it exists, Id say alleviating human suffering is a pretty good one.

The bill doesnt move marijuana research out of the hands of respected scientists at institutions of higher learning and into the hands of convenience store clerks as the letter says.

Another particularly gutter sentence was though the myths are prolific about the benefits of marijuana, the advocates for legalization spread these myths because they fit well with their agenda.

Advocates like the bills author, who is a conservative legislator and physician? Tell us more about his nefarious agenda. Or former law enforcement officer Dustin Chandler, a committed Christian, and father of a special needs daughter who inspired the passage of Carlys Law in 2014. Based on a growing body of research, he believes that the relief made available to Carly through CBD oil may be multiplied to other suffering families through the judicious use of medical cannabis. Furthermore, he believes that its his duty as a follower of Christ to advocate for the suffering and vulnerable.

Mischaracterizing the motivations of people like these to gin up some fear is no way to persuade with integrity.

And then there was this line: We understand that as presently amended, the Bill does not allow for smoking marijuana but we know the push to smoke will come.

Think about this in the context of other controlled substances we already prescribe. Schedule II, III, and IV prescription drugs can be abused. Doctors must prescribe them with care, and patients must submit to ongoing physician oversight to continue therapeutic use. In the case of these controlled substances, the medical community has established guidelines--refined over years of clinical experience--for proper usage, which have generally narrowed over time rather than expanded.

In plain language: its harder today to get a prescription for a narcotic pain reliever than it was a decade ago.

But for a dying person who needs morphine to ease the suffering of his final days, there is a righteous, compassionate application for that drug. For the veteran with PTSD who suffers debilitating panic attacks, there is an appropriate use for Xanax. For the heroin addict trying to break free from a lethal addiction, there is a proper application for methadone.

I reject the notion that denying relief to the suffering because were too lazy to build a system to deliver that relief with wisdom and prudence is some sort of moral high ground.

I dont want to be too hard on the DAs. I know that the nature of their work is to spend every day dealing with the worst of humanity. They are tasked with sorting through the rotten fruits of evil and terrible decision-making. Their job would predispose a lot of us to assume a negative posture on an issue like this.

When youre a hammer, everything looks like a nail.

Thats why its important to also listen to physicians who spend every day observing physical and mental suffering and working to alleviate it. To parents who watch a childs body wracked with relentless seizures. To cancer patients who beg for mercy as they do war with a horrible disease.

So how do doctors feel about it the use of medical cannabis? The Lister Hill Center for Public Health Policy at UAB surveyed Alabama physicians in conjunction with the Medical Association of the State of Alabama (MASA) and reported just this week that around 70% of doctors support a bill like SB 46.

Are they all a bunch of dolts tricked by myths and junk science? I tend to believe they are not.

Medical cannabis, just like prescription narcotics, requires a lot of us. It requires that we proceed carefully and thoughtfully, applying guardrails to prevent unintended consequences. But there are many things in life that force us to recognize and mitigate risk, but which we still deem worthwhile in the final analysis. I think this is probably one of them. Its fine to disagree, but we must do so in good faith and with integrity. The letter signed by those district attorneys met neither of those goals.

Updated at 10:10 a.m. May 3, 2021 to correct the Senate bill number

Dana Hall McCain writes about faith, culture, and politics for AL.com. You can follow her on Twitter @dhmccain.
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Alexander City, AL (35010)

Today

Showers this morning then scattered thunderstorms developing during the afternoon hours. High around 85F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

A few showers this evening with mostly cloudy conditions overnight. Low 69F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 30%.
Lake Charles native Tremaine Collins fulfilled a childhood dream by appearing as a contestant on the long-running game show, The Price is Right, earlier this year. He made it all the way to the Showcase Showdown and won more than $30,000 worth of prizes, including a new car.
Opinion polls, particularly in the buildup to a presidential election, are not designed to reflect public opinion, but instead to shape it. For the media, objectivity is only of historic interest, a journalistic tenet from a bygone era. Now most of the media is embedded within the Democrat party, serving as an advocacy arm or political action committee to influence elections and agendas.

A CNN staffer, who bragged that he was one step down from a director, admitted to an undercover Tinder date, actually a real journalist working for James OKeefes Project Veritas, that CNN was creating a story that we didnt know anything about, calling it propaganda to help remove President Trump from office. The epitome of fake news.

Fake news media have many gaslighting tools at their disposal. Some outlets doctor audio or video tapes to make their bad guy appear racist or doing something illegal. Or, they make their good guy look like Mother Teresa. Recipients of this treatment range from law enforcement and Fergusons Gentle Giant Michael Brown, to George Zimmerman, and even President Donald Trump.

Many cable news channels, or newspapers simply say or print falsehoods, as in Trump-Russia collusion, Russian bounties on American soldiers, or the cause of death of a Capitol Police officer. The error or correction, if acknowledged at all, is relegated to a couple of lines buried in back of the newspaper several days or more later.

Opinion polls are a well-known and effective method of shaping opinion. These methods have been well described and include sampling whoever answers the phone versus likely voters, the latter being a practice of Rasmussen Reports in their high accurate presidential opinion polls. Oversampling Democrats is another fraudulent way to produce a poll result favoring the DNC media agenda.

President Biden last week addressed Congress, at least those select few members invited to listen to Sleepy Joe propose new spending in excess of $4 trillion, an amount larger than what the federal government takes in annually through already-confiscatory taxes.

Despite most or all members of Congress, as well as the president and vice president, already being vaccinated, the sparse audience was wearing masks and sitting at least six feet apart. If fully vaccinated, why were the attendees acting as though they were not? If the government message is that the vaccine works and everyone should take it, why are the top government leaders sending the opposite message?

YouTube screen grab

Cable news anchors from CNN and MSNBC, joined by Fox Newss Chris Wallace, were gushing over Bidens speech, some nearly in tears, a far cry from any Trump speech reaction over the past four years. CNN commissioned a poll to support their lovefest over Bidens spendfest speech.

Their headline on the day after Bidens speech was 7 in 10 who watched say Bidens speech left them feeling optimistic.

Start with the bit about who watched. How many Americans gave up an hour of their evening to watch what the media thought was a speech on par with Martin Luther King Jr.s I have a dream speech? Not too many.

Charlie Kirk tweeted out TV ratings for presidential addresses.

Trump 1748,000,000 Trump 1846,000,000 Trump 1946,800,000 Trump 2037,200,000 Biden 2111,600,000

The last figure was the sum total of the three main legacy television networks - CBS, ABC, and NBC, plus Fox News. Nielsen reports the audience from more sources at 26.9 million. Either way, Biden drew considerably less of the audience that Trump did in his first congressional address and far less than in Trumps final address, even when cable media are included. As the Last Refuge noted,

Thats over a 60% decrease in viewership. No crowds ever attended his rallies. There was no crowd at his installation. There are no views for his on-line speeches. The audience for his regular speeches are non-existent. Virtually no viewers at home. An empty chamber for his speech, and yet we are to believe he received 81 million votes.

At least China Joe beat the Oscars, which had only 9.85 million viewers, down 58 percent from last years all-time low. Perhaps the woke leftists in Hollywood and the White House are not as popular as CNN believes they are.

Back to the poll, commissioned by CNN, conducted by SSRS Opinion Panel: The sample was 589 respondents, only slightly more than the size of the U.S. Congress. Of those surveyed, 45 percent identified as Democrat compared to 23 percent as Republican, a two-fold difference.

Is it any wonder that seven out of 10 gave the speech a thumbs up? They should have saved money and just surveyed the CNN newsroom, getting the same or an even more favorable result.

Did they survey anyone living on the Southern border? Or in cities ravaged by a year of protests and riots, encouraged by Bidens Democrat party? Or those minding their own business yet accused of being racist white supremacists by the woke-stasi?

Lets not just pick on CNN. CBS pushed its own gaslighting poll, carried out by YouGov. Their headline, post speech, was, Most viewers approve of Bidens speech. CBS reported 85 percent of speech watchers approved of Bidens speech. Who were those speech watchers, aside from the CBS newsroom?

CBSs sample was even more skewed than CNNs with 54 percent Democrats and only 18 percent Republicans, a three-fold difference. Why not just poll speech attendees, mostly Democrats with a handful of stealth Democrats like Sen. Mitt Romney or Chief Justice John Roberts? The result would be the same.

Even left-wing Snopes called out the media, rating as false the assertion that 85 percent of Americans approved of Bidens speech. When the gaslighting media loses Snopes, you know they have crossed the Rubicon of credibility.

To paraphrase George Orwell, all opinions are equal, but some are more equal than others. Its the more equal opinions that the media will gaslight the public with, that everyone loves Biden and is so relieved that Trump is out of office. Trump and his supporters must not only be defeated, but also erased, relegated to a four-year blip in history, an anomaly, temporarily interrupting the ruling classs 16-year plan for the great reset.

Expect this to continue, for as long as Biden remains in the White House, with the only pushback being lawsuits by Project Veritas and declining ratings for left-wing cable news shows. Elected Republicans wring their hands, but are incapable of pushing back.

Turn off the news, award shows, and professional sports. These no longer entertain. They just preach virtue-signaling propaganda, and are as appealing as a nagging mother-in-law. If you love America and the Constitution, if you supported President Trump, or if you are simply minding your own business as a conservative, the ruling class loathes you.

Dont give them TV ratings or even the time of day. Let them gaslight only themselves and those in their left-wing bubble.

Brian C. Joondeph, M.D., is a physician and writer. He is on sabbatical from social media.

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Their normal human sympathies have atrophied. They live in the desert of their own inhuman politics. They are cold and apparently lack a spiritual life. Desperate to look down on other people, they take fatuity to a new level.

David Atkins, recently elected as a California member of the Democratic National Committee, mused on Twitter (Nov. 21, 2020): "How do you deprogram 75 million people who would literally die to stick it to the domestic enemies the teevee and youtube conspiracy vids told them to hate? No, seriously...how DO you deprogram 75 million people? Where do you start? Fox? Facebook? We have to start thinking in terms of post-WWII Germany or Japan. Or the failures of Reconstruction in the South."

Bret Stephens, certified by the New York Times as a journalist, summed up the American political landscape ten weeks after the election (Jan. 18, 2021):

The larger question in my mind is whether the G.O.P. is the village that must be destroyed in order to be saved, or, alternatively, is it like a group of previously reasonable people who got taken in by a cult and now must go through some kind of deprogramming so that they can lead normal lives again? My hope is that once Republicans realize that Trump was both a moral and political disaster for them, they might recover their senses.

Katie Couric, famous TV person, reacted viscerally to this "larger question" when chatting with Bill Maher on his Real Time show (Jan. 19, 2020). Katie confided her contempt for those who don't agree with her. She was particularly upset with GOP congressmen. "It's really bizarre, isn't it, when you think about how AWOL so many of these members of Congress have gotten? ... And the question is, how are we going to really almost deprogram these people who have signed up for the cult of Trump?"

Bill Maher read from the same sermon: "I mean, what do you do about these people? There's 147 Republicans in Congress who still don't concede that Trump lost the election. What do you do about people who are in the government who don't believe in our way of government?"

The Washington Post also has a clairvoyant, Brian Klaas:

For the past four years, the United States was governed by a conspiracy theorist in chief. Whether by retweeting QAnon from the Oval Office or painting himself as the victim of shadowy "deep state" plots at rallies, President Donald Trump injected the toxin of baseless conspiratorial thinking straight into America's political bloodstream. On Jan 6, 2021, America saw how far that venom had spread, as a ragtag group of militias, racist extremists and flag-waving disciples of Trumpism stormed the Capitol[.]

Columnist Klaas laments the near futility of attempting to "deprogram" millions of Trump-supporters, claiming that many have "gone far enough down the rabbit hole of conspiratorial thinking." His essay "Why is it so hard to deprogram Trumpian conspiracy theorists?" depicts millions of Trump-supporters as so devoted to "dangerous lunacy" that nearly all hope is lost of bringing them "back to reality."

Many readers must feel that Klaas is talking about himself. Baseless conspiratorial thinking, indeed. There is little hope of bringing him back to reality.

Steven Hassan, of Salon, can probably claim to be among the first to discuss some of these items. A year before the election, he asked: "Is it possible to deprogram Trump's political cult members and return them to normal society? Should good Americans isolate Trump supporters and refuse to interact with them?"

Hassan deals in such epiphanies as follows:

One of the most universal techniques of subverting our ability to correctly assess reality is through phobia indoctrination. This is the implantation of irrational fears against questioning the leader, the doctrine, or the organization or cult's policies[.] ... These techniques include behavior control, information control, thought control, and emotional control to keep people dependent and obedient within that group's structure.

Who needs all this psychoanalytical jibber-jabber? Simple. People whose self-esteem is shaky  i.e., they can hardly stand themselves. So they label other people deplorable even as they probably suspect how deplorable they are.

Every time the cult member says, "I hate Trump," the real me is preening: "I'm a genuine and superior person. And people like me!" The more evil you claim that Trump is, the more beneficent you are claiming to be.

The fascinating thing is the dead-brain, tone-deaf consciousness you need to muse in this offhand way about deprogramming and reprogramming many tens of millions of people. As if this cascade of crimes is just a walk to the drugstore. After all, what is Katie Couric demanding? Kidnapping? Torture? Human-trafficking? Involuntary servitude? At least.

Can deprogramming be done in a day? More probably weeks or months. Where will people stay? Who pays for all this? When you move them around, do you use school buses or tractor-trailers? Do you put them in straitjackets?

One perennial thread in fascism is a love affair with brutality. One can't help feeling that some of these people would love to bring back the guillotine and have a front-row seat as heads plop into the basket. We can almost see Joy Behar grinning with anticipation.

Perhaps the basic sin is not so grotesque, merely the overestimating of one's intelligence. The New York Times, always trying to equate Trump with Hitler, started using the word cult all the time, and before you know it, it's a fact as solid as the Rocky Mountains. No further discussion required. In the same way, all these people believe they personally witnessed Trump as he personally commanded an insurrection to capture a building that was already his. Only the cognitively incomplete could claim to comprehend this caper. (Spoiler alert: History will conclude there is no cult and no insurrection. Repeat ten times each day.)

The public schools almost cannot be bothered to teach knowledge. And we see that this attitude has infected all the best people. Everything is whatever they say it is. There's really no need to discuss evidence with peasants. There is a serious question whether they should even be allowed to exist.

The only cult is the people who think CNN is the political middle ground. The only insurrection is the sacking and looting of the city named Veritas, where facts and knowledge were once cherished.

The whole point of America was to be free to make your own choices, live and let live. But now the left does not believe in choices or freedom to choose the answers each individual likes best. It's a brutal setback for personal independence and a cunning victory for totalitarianism.

Bruce Deitrick Price's new book is Saving K-12: What happened to our public schools? How do we fix them? Price deconstructs bogus theories and methods on his ed site Improve-Education.org.

Image: Gage Skidmore via Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0.

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There are signs that the left has created a backlash by overplaying its hand. Even in a stronghold of the left like Austin, Texas, where in 2019 homeless people were allowed to erect their tents on city-owned land, including parks and sidewalks, thanks to the progressive-dominated city council. All the problems any sane person would predict started happening immediately. And that led to a voter initiative to reinstate the camping ban, Proposition B. Here is a tweet from the group that petitioned to get the proposition on the ballot, demonstrating the need for the ban:

It won Saturday in a vote that was startling for its margin in a city often compared to Berkeley and Madison. KVUE TV reports:

Austin voters have approved Proposition B, which aims to reinstate the public camping ban that was reversed in July 2019. The results were 57% to 43%, with the majority voting to approve the proposition. The camping ban makes it illegal to camp in any public area not designated by the Parks and Recreation Department; to sit or lie on a public sidewalk or sleep outdoors in and near the downtown area and the area around the University of Texas campus; and to panhandle at specific hours and locations.



Graphic credit: KVUE TV.

Even progs don't like strangers setting up tents in front of their houses and urinating and defecating on the sidewalks (and much worse) there. You could say the progs of Austin are edging in the direction Irving Kristol described 30 years ago to define neoconservatives: "a liberal who's been mugged by reality." While I don't expect Austinites to start backing endless foreign wars and "nation building," they are clearly unafraid to challenge progressive orthodoxy when it has been shoved down their throats.

A second proposition backed by progressives, this one aimed at political reconfiguration, also failed  and by a margin so gigantic that it can only be called resounding. Phillip Jankowski of the Austin American-Statesman reports: Austinites have resoundingly rejected a switch to a "strong mayor" form of city government. Final but unofficial results on Saturday showed Proposition F, which would have delivered far more power into the mayor's hands, lost by a margin wider than any in recent memory. The results were overwhelming: The unofficial result was 14% for and 86% against with 147,657 ballots cast.

The proposition was a progressive plot:

The Austin City Council placed Prop F on the ballot after the political action committee Austinites for Progressive Reform successfully circulated a petition for it and a slate of other items to come up for election.

But opposition developed from both the left and the right:

Campaign manager Jim Wick said after he saw the wide variety and large number of groups that endorsed against Prop F, they all but abandoned the campaign choosing to focus their attention and dollars on the other propositions they brought.

Even prog groups opposed handing so much power to the mayor.

[I]t became clear soon after Austinites for Progressive Reform announced they had the signatures to place strong-mayor on the ballot that many initial supporters had softened on the idea after learning about the mayor's veto power. Had it passed, the mayor would have the ability to veto any ordinance passed by the City Council. A two-thirds majority could overturn the veto. Opponents said giving that much power to a single official would water down the district system that has pushed the Austin City Council to the left.

I take it as a healthy sign that even progressives prefer locally responsive representatives wielding power, not central authority figures like a strong mayor.

Hat tip: David Paulin.

Photo credit: KVUE screengrab (cropped).

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Chicago police shot Anthony Alvarez at the end of March. Because he was Hispanic, not Black, the outrage mob was less outraged than it would otherwise be. However, the fact that he was shot in the back already has activists complaining that Alvarez didn't deserve to die at police hands. Just released footage of the shooting, however, shows that Alvarez was armed and refusing to comply with a police order when he died. It's a reminder that, when it comes to guns, the activists care little about those threatening the police.

Although Alvarez died a month ago, the police refused to release footage of the shooting, spurring accusations of a cover-up because Alvarez had been fatally shot in his back. On Thursday, though, the Chicago Police Department finally released a five-minute video showing that the officer shot Alvarez in the back because Alvarez was armed:

As with so many of the body cams showing police shootings, you hear the officer repeatedly say, "Drop the gun" before shooting. When a fatally wounded Alvarez asked why the police had shot him, the officer replied, "You had a gun."

The fact that Alvarez was armed and in motion when the police shot him didn't stop the usual people from complaining that, as his aunt said in a Chicago Tribune article focused entirely on anti-police words and images, "He didn't deserve to get killed this way. What these cops did to him, it's not right. They murdered my nephew. They killed [him] and they killed a part of me, a part of our family. We're never going to be the same."

The only family member not referenced in the tear-jerking article that focused closely on Alvarez's two-year-old daughter was Alvarez's father. It does not appear that there was a father in the picture. Likewise, there's no indication that Alvarez was married to, or shared a life with, the child's mother, although I may be reading too much into the story to justify drawing conclusions about Alvarez's relationships with his father and the mother of his child.

Twitter shows that the usual anti-cop crowd is using Alvarez's death as a political cudgel:

anthony alvarez should be here today, just like adam toledo and laquan mcdonald, and rekia boyd and every single life that has been stolen and taken away from us in the hands of the chicago police department.  catlyn. (@catlynsavado) April 28, 2021

The Chicago Police Department killed three young people aged 13-22 last week. Adam Toledo, 13. Travon Chadwell, 18. Anthony Alvarez, 22.



This was taken at the Rogers Park Solidarity Networks shrine commemorating dozens of lives lost to violence the last couple of years. pic.twitter.com/jjYYaXokcZ  Adam Mahoney (he/him) (@AdamLMahoney) April 4, 2021

Anthony Alvarez was murdered on March 31st by the Chicago Police Department.



He was running away.



Video expected today. https://t.co/8m3pF2tcHJ   Erica, The White Trash Socialist  (@herosnvrdie69) April 28, 2021

That last one is especially pertinent to this post: "He was running away," says the White Trash Socialist.

True, but Alvarez was also armed with a gun that he refused to drop. As a reminder, this is how quickly a criminal can turn on the police:

The moment a bad guy has a gun, the dynamics in the situation change. Whether the bad guy is facing the police or running away from them, he is less than a second from being able to kill them.

The whole point of the anti-gun movement is that guns are so dangerous that they must be banned entirely to save the world. So it says something about the irrationality and hypocrisy of the anti-gun crowd that a gun in the hands of a young man who could have pivoted within a millisecond to murder the police officer was nevertheless insufficient justification to consider Alvarez a threat.

Image: Anthony Alvarez holding a gun. Chicago PD body cam video.

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Liz Cheney is in trouble.

After winning handily as chair of the House Republican Conference in Congress in February shortly after her unpopular vote to impeach President Trump, House members are now looking to get rid of her.

Axios had the scoop on that:

Top Republicans are turning on Rep. Liz Cheney, the partys highest-ranking woman in Congress, with one conservative leader suggesting she could be ousted from her GOP post within a month. Why it matters: The comments by Reps. Steve Scalise, the minority whip, and Jim Banks, chairman of the Republican Study Committee, carry weight because of their close relationship with House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.)  who is openly feuding with Cheney.

So it's not because of the impeachment vote, it seems, but because she can't get along with other people. She's the Queen of Mean, if the multiple incidents that Axios reported have it right.

That's far from a perfect reason for getting rid of her, but it's better than nothing, and obviously, it tells us a lot about her.

Axios focuses on the Cheney backbiting with House minority leader Kevin McCarthy. McCarthy's not a perfect guy, either  he went along with the leftist narrative of Jan. 6 about President Trump supposedly inciting an attack on the Capitol  but he's better than Liz because he's backtracked as the facts came out, and at a minimum, he knows which side his political bread is buttered on. Axios reported that he'd been kibbitzing with President Trump for political support with the aim of winning back the House in 2022 in order to hold his long cherished dream of becoming speaker of the House. You want to win back the House? Then, yes, Trump's your go-to man. His endorsements are political gold. Insult Trump, and watch your voters stay home. There's a reason the NeverTrump movement attracted only a microscopically small number of Republicans and was then rapidly co-opted by the pervy Lincoln Project and its massive base of leftist billionaire donors. Nobody conservative wants that.

Liz, though, didn't like it, and thus, she has been getting into fights with McCarthy over that and some other stuff.

She also did other nasty things, which Axios didn't seem to notice were the kind of mean-spirited things that get people's attention.

She fought with Rep. Steve Scalise of Louisiana for roughly the same stuff.

And she got downright petty with Rep. Jim Banks, chair of the House Republican Study Committee, calling him a "neo-Marxist."

This is a Republican leader. And she's calling one of her members, over a point of disagreement, a "neo-Marxist" as if he were some Democratic campaign opponent? Things like this get people's attention. Her job requires diplomacy, tact, and maybe nudging if someone is wrong, and above all, supporting the members. She seems to think her leadership position of her conference committee means she should get rid of Republicans and turn the GOP into some other party. Maybe she'd be happier as a Democrat, though I imagine she'd be mean there, too.

To return to her spat with McCarthy, her argument is that Trump lost the election, along with the Senate, and therefore is a loser no one should pay attention to. Republicans, see, should now look to her.

Had enough?

It's amazing to see this garbage coming from a Republican.

The losses were due not to Trump, whom she blames for them, but Democrat rigging and fraud, as it happens  the great rigging to "fortify" the election (meaning: result) that Time magazine wrote about in triumph in February, with ballot-harvesting, early voting, extended voting, lost chains of custody, unverified voter rolls, automatic voting registration, plus all the holes in election laws that GOP legislatures in Georgia, Arizona, and other places are attempting to repair before the next one. It was fraud, in fact, on an industrial scale, as computer expert and AT contributor Jay Valentine revealed through forensics, involving nests of fraudsters who expand and continue their activity over extended periods, unless they are stopped, which hasn't happened. Some 70% of Republicans (and the president of Mexico, who has seen this movie himself) believe that Trump's loss was due to massive fraud and America's election was stolen.

Trump's incredible coattails in the House somehow lacked a coat, while Biden's candidacy for president had absolutely no coattails, and the old doddering fool who campaigned just minimally, somehow got 81 million votes, even more than the genuinely popular President Obama. Trump took all the bellwether counties, which called elections right except now. We still don't know what happened with the mysteriously halted voting in the middle of the night in swing states and the sudden change of direction in the counting when they resumed, or why the people in Atlanta trotting out suitcases full of ballots to count after the observers were ordered home decided to lawyer up. We don't know the explanation of why a trucker was ordered to take his truck full of ballots from New York to Pennsylvania. We don't know why so many ballots arrived uncreased with just one vote for Biden. We haven't gotten beyond the massive witness testimonies of various fraud incidents in multiple states at legislative hearings. We still don't understand why windows were covered from observers in Detroit, or why observers with court orders in Pennsylvania were nevertheless kept out with nobody busted for it. So many questions.

And the only reason I bring this up is that this is what Republican voters are thinking, those Republicans in the 70%. What's Liz's response to this?

It's what you think: shutting them up. Repressing them. Blocking their voices from public life. Axios reports that she demanded that any Republican who states there was election fraud be forbidden from running for office. She's not going to argue with them as colleagues, she's just going to use muscle and power to repress them, to silence their voices, so that once again, only hers matters. She's that mean, and more to the point, she hates you.

Axios may not have known it, but it revealed a litany of examples of sheer meanness from someone who doesn't have a clue about what leadership means. No leader who has followers acts like that to members of her team and expects to stay in power. Axios reports that GOP leaders now think she will be thrown out by May's end. If so, it should have happened sooner. But better late than never.

Image: Pexels, public domain.

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While browsing the internet for a dose of Sunday morning propaganda, a headline from the always predictable New York Times (NYT) caught my attention. Titled "From the Past, a Chilling Warning about the Extremists of the Present," by Neil MacFarquhar, it featured a photograph from a large rally, its participants carrying Trump signs, "Don't Tread on Me" placards and proSecond Amendment posters.

I didn't have to read a single word to know where the article was going, as a picture can indeed be worth a thousand words. But I decided to bridle my skepticism and read on. Who knows? Maybe the piece would make at least a token attempt to be objective and address the crushing damage done to our country over the past year by Antifa, Black Lives Matter, and assorted other Marxist terrorists.

No such luck. There's a fleeting reference near the end about "protests over social justice issues as possible [emphasis added] seeds for radicalization." But it's nothing more than left-wing avoidance, reminiscent of the CNN reporter calling a riot/protest "mostly peaceful" as a building burned in the background.

The article is basically a history lesson on an extremist organization called the Order, an actual white supremacist group that made headlines in the early 1980s. I remember reading about the Order, but memories can fade after almost forty years. According to the NYT piece, they robbed armored cars in Seattle and on a California highway, bombed a synagogue in Boise, and assassinated a Jewish radio talk show host in Denver. Their apparent goal was to "establish a whites-only homeland out West," the article said. The Order drifted into semi-obscurity in December 1984 when its leader, Robert Jay Mathews, died in a shootout with FBI agents.

But, in a philosophical sense, the Order may be back! And it could inspire Trump supporters to destroy our beloved Republic!

MacFarquhar spoke with several key players, including Wayne F. Manis, the lead FBI agent. "When you see the country as politically and philosophically divided as it is today, that makes it more likely that somebody could take advantage of these times to bring about another revolutionary concept like the Order," Manis stated. "We stopped the Order. We did not stop the ideology." Manis continued: "I feel that if there is an organization today from the extreme right that is following in the footsteps of the Order, you will not know anything about it until it is too late and they have already done something dastardly." Nothing was mentioned about "dastardly" behavior from the extreme left, despite the fact that burning and looting are still happening across the country.

Another of MacFarquhar's sources is Gene Wilson, lead prosecutor at the trial. "Many of the participants of these groups today come from the same sources as the Order," Wilson opined. "I think they might be just as committed to totally changing democracy as we know it." The "same sources" are not identified, and, once again, nothing is mentioned about the far left "totally changing democracy." Sense a pattern here?

To be fair, the reader has no way of knowing if MacFarquhar's sources are ideologically committed to leftist politics or if the author is cherry-picking to promote the NYT narrative. As previously noted, no mention is made about Marxist violence that's truly destroying our Republic, or the obvious and documented connections between today's radical left and its violent mentors from the '60s and '70s (Bill Ayers, Bernardine Dohrn, Angela Davis, just to name a few). Maybe MacFarquhar is going to be objective by writing a contrarian piece, but I kind of doubt it. Even if he's not a left-wing ideologue, he probably values his employment at the NYT.

Even though a connection is repeatedly implied, the article makes no effort to link the "ideology" of the Order with current groups that are mentioned, like the Proud Boys and the Oath Keepers. Frankly, a connection cannot be made, because there's not a thread of evidence that the latter groups have promoted violence, advocated racism, murdered anyone, or burned and looted businesses. But in today's journalism, something stated or implied doesn't have to be true. The abject lies about the death of Officer Brian Sicknick prove that.

Chalk up another one for yellow journalism.

Image: New York Times.

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A man accused of a wave of terror against Jewish institutions is walking the streets of New York again without putting up any bail money, even after one judge demanded a $20,000 bail or $30,000 security bond. In a startling pair of judicial rulings within hours of each other, at first:

A Bronx judge went rogue on Sunday and ordered the accused Riverdale synagogue vandal held on $20,000 bail  even though prosecutors insisted the man had to be sprung under the state's controversial bail-reform laws. Jordan Burnette, 29, was hit with 42 charges, including a number of hate crimerelated offenses for allegedly smashing windows at various synagogues and swiping prayer books during an 11-day crime spree. But none of the charges require him to be held on bail, prosecutors noted at his arraignment in Bronx Criminal Court. "Given the number of attacks, we probably would have asked for substantial bail before January of 2020," Assistant District Attorney Theresa Gottlieb told Judge Louis Nock. "The legislature did not include hate crimes in its revision of bail reform and, under the law as it exists today, this is not eligible," she added. "We will not violate the law." But that didn't stop Nock from ordering Burnette held on $20,000 bail, $30,000 bond or $30,000 partially secured bond  after deciding that the "shattering of glass" constitutes a violent felony. "I've taken a very close look at the law," Nock said. "Given the gravity and the number of charges he's facing, this court is inclined to set bail."



Jordan Burnette (WCBS TV screen grab via NY Post).

Judge Nock's desire to protect the Jewish community from a wave of terror is commendable. But another judge read the bail reform law differently.

A Bronx judge on Sunday night ordered the alleged Riverdale synagogue vandal be cut loose on supervised release  reversing an earlier decision by a separate jurist to hold the suspect on $20,000 bail. The suspect, 29-year-old Jordan Burnette, was granted supervised release by Judge Tara Collins in Bronx Criminal Court  hours after he was ordered held on bail on 42 charges stemming from his alleged 11-day crime spree, Patrice O'Shaughnessy, a spokeswoman for the Bronx District Attorney's Office, said. (snip) It was not immediately clear why Burnette was called back into court Sunday night  or why he was granted supervised release.

So-called "bail reform" laws in New York, California, Illinois, and a few other states allow the release of suspects on personal recognizance  that is, without putting up any money to guarantee they will show up in court for prosecution on the crimes of which they have been accused. In Burnette's case, he was arrested while riding a bicycle stolen from one of the vandalized synagogues, and there is surveillance tape of him committing some of the vandalism.

So, thanks to "bail reform," a religious community lives in fear.

I can only hope a backlash builds as crime rates soar in the wake of "bail reform," police budget cuts, and the campaign to demonize and demoralize police officers. If Austin, Texas voters can get a clue, maybe there is hope for New Yorkers and others who live under bail reform legislation.
The one nice thing I can say about Alyssa Milano's social and political views is that I think she means well. Other than that, I think she's a seriously misguided woman whose fame as a pretty actress gives her way too big a platform for spreading her Hollywood version of morality. Fortunately, there are people willing to talk back to her. Most recently, that pushback came from a young New Orleans woman named Savvy.

Milano, using all her actor's chops, can be seen in a video solemnly intoning, "For those of us who are not Black men, imagine watching the news and seeing how people ..." Suddenly, Milano vanishes, and Savvy takes her place. But Savvy isn't there to join with Milano's worldview that sees her deny Blacks either agency or intelligence. Instead, Savvy is there to give Milano a big dose of reality.

Imagine being a Black man and being told by some White lady with a microphone that you and the criminal on TV are one and the same because you like alike. Imagine being told by society that White people can be all that they can be but for you as a Black man, the content of your character is completely irrelevant.

And so it goes for another 40 seconds  rapid-fire observations about the smarmy racism underlying the "I care" posture that leftists like Milano take as they consistently advocate policies that demean Blacks.

Savvy's attack on Milano's fatuousness reminds me why I'm deeply hostile to leftists. When it comes to people generally, but especially to American Blacks, the left has successfully stripped them of the three things that are necessary for anyone to become a successful, fully realized person: family, morality, and faith.

With the Great Society, the welfare state, and Biden's overreaching crime bill, Black families have been decimated. Men are simply gone. They're not there as husbands, fathers, sons, or brothers. In too many communities, they're sperm donors and mercenaries.

Leftists are busy doing the same for everyone. Despite the married state being the absolute best way to raise children, marriage in America is rapidly declining. Remember Obama's "Life of Julia"? Dear Women, you don't need a husband to care for you and your children. Government is there for you...

Thanks to leftists, traditional morality is gone. One of the things leftism does is give permission to fall away from the high ground and engage in all sorts of supremely damaging behaviors. Monogamy is exchanged for unlimited sex. Being law-abiding is exchanged for permission to commit crimes because of one's skin color. Treating all people with respect vanishes beneath the heavy footsteps of Critical Race Theory.

And underlying both family and morality is faith. As Dennis Prager so often says, if you don't believe in an all-powerful, abstract God, why should you believe in morality? Who cares about killing people if humans don't have value? And who worries about killing people if you know that leftist prosecutors will let you walk? And should you die while committing a crime, it's a comfort to know that BLM will turn you into a martyr and hero who may be worth tens of millions to your grieving, but now rich, family.

Savvy is not the only Black person in New Orleans pushing back against toxic White leftism. I wish she could meet American Cougar, who posts on Instagram. He too refuses to let leftists pigeonhole him as a skin color. Instead, he sees himself as an American with an inherent right to liberty and self-determination.

Each of us is greater than the sum of his individual parts. We aren't just a skin color, sexual organ, profession, neighborhood, or hobby. We are, most essentially, our unique selves. A healthy, free country recognizes that. A sick, Marxist country desperately tries to fit us into easily controllable boxes. We must celebrate every person who refuses to be stuffed into that leftist box.

Image: Savvy. Twitter screen grab.
The sinking of the French ocean liner SS La Bourgogne on the morning of 4 July 1898 was one of the most disgraceful of disasters in maritime history due to the cowardly and criminal behavior of the crew. Instead of the heroic sacrifice that has often been the shining moment in such a terrible tragedy, the crew of the steamer fought like demons for the few lifeboats and rafts, drawing out their knives and threatening passengers with it. Out went for a toss Women and children first!, famously established by the soldiers of the sinking Birkenhead, half a century earlier, and by the crew of the Titanic fourteen years later. Only one woman passenger from La Bourgogne was saved, and all children perished.

The Transatlantic steamer La Bourgogne, entering the port of Le Havre, France. Photo: Library of Congress

The La Bourgogne was built in 1885 by Societe Nouvelle des Forges et Chantiers de la Mediterranee, in La Seyne-sur-Mer, France. She was a sleek-looking ocean liner, nearly five hundred feet in length with four masts and twin funnels. She was made of iron and steel, and was propelled by a single screw propeller giving her a maximum speed of 17 knots.

In her short career of 12 years, the La Bourgogne was involved in at least three accidents. In 1896, she rammed an anchored British steamer at the entrance to New York harbor and sank her. She was also involved in a collision with the SS Toreador damaging her stern.

On July 3, 1898, the La Bourgogne left New York City for Le Havre on what would be her final voyage. Early morning the next day, about 60 nautical miles south of Sable Island near Nova Scotia, the British sailing ship Cromartyshire rammed into the starboard side of La Bourgogne. Dense fog had reduced visibility to only about 20 yards, and the Cromartyshire was travelling at full speed.

Cromartyshires damaged bow after the collision. Photo: 17qq.com

La Bourgogne began to list immediately to starboard. Many of the lifeboats on that side were wrecked in the collision and the boats on the port side proved impossible to launch due to the list. As the ship started to list and the stern went under, the crew began to panic. Showing little concern for the passengers, the crew began piling up on whatever lifeboats were available and launched them to sea. Some used fists and oars to beat up any passengers who attempted to come near the boats. Some passengers were stabbed. Half an hour later La Bourgogne completely disappeared beneath the waves, taking with her almost every woman and every single child.

The Kansas City Journal reported on July 7, 1898:

The last few minutes on board the Bourgogne witnessed some of the most terrible scenes of horror and cruelty that have blotted the history of a civilized race. Instead of heroic discipline which so often has been the one bright feature of such awful moments, the crew of the steamer fought like demons for the few lifeboats and rafts, battering the helpless passengers away from their only means of salvation, with the result that the strong overcame the weak and the list of 162 saved contains the name of but one woman.

The crew of the Cromartyshire wasnt aware of the extent of the damage until after the fog had thinned. They had mistaken the alarm whistles and rockets from the unseen La Bourgogne as an offer for assistance, when in reality it was a call for help.

Photo: 17qq.com

La Bourgogne was carrying 506 passengers and 220 crew. The Cromartyshire managed to pick up 173 survivors, out of which fewer than 70 were passengers, with only one woman rescued out of approximately 300 on board. Not a single child was rescued. Almost all first class passengers died in the disaster, with survivors largely limited to steerage passengers and sailors.

As many passengers were American, the incident caused a massive outrage in the United States, and based on the tales of rampant brutality on board the sinking La Bourgogne, it was assumed that an impartial investigation into the tragedy and a fair trial of those accused of the horrific crimes would be held. But the whole matter was whitewashed and the French authorities put the blame on a handful of foreign sailors who had been traveling on the French ship in steerage.

References:

# Flashback in maritime history - Sinking of SS La Bourgogne, 4 July 1898 with the loss of 549 lives, Maritime Cyprus

# Pascal Kainic, The collision and foundering of La Bourgogne, oceantreasures.org

# Wikipedia




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The new cases of coronavirus in Andhra Pradesh witnessed a huge rise in the last one week. The government is badly criticized and the intermediate examinations are postponed for now. The government of Andhra Pradesh announced an 18-hour lockdown in the state starting from May 5th, Wednesday. The curfew will continue for two weeks. All the shops and essentials will be open from 6 AM till 12 in the afternoon. Section 144 is imposed across the state from afternoon till 6 AM. The government announced a Criminal Procedure Code in the state during the curfew. Only emergency services are asked to operate during the lockdown time in the state.

All the public and private transports will be shut during the curfew time announced the state government. The government of Andhra Pradesh took the suggestions of the experts after which the decision was taken to control the spread of coronavirus. The state witnessed close to 25,000 new cases on a regular basis which is huge. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jaganmohan Reddy conducted a review meeting with the officials after which the announcement was made. A total number of 11 lakh positive cases of coronavirus are reported in the state in total and 9,90,813 people got discharged till yesterday. There are more than 1.4 lakh active cases for coronavirus in the state and the death toll stands at 8136.
Vijay and Vamshi Paidipally to team up:- Talented director Vamshi Paidipally last directed Maharshi with Superstar Mahesh Babu in the lead role and the film ended up as a super hit. Vamshi narrated scripts to almost all the top and young actors of Telugu cinema after the release of Maharshi and they got rejected. He wanted to work with Mahesh Babu again but the top actor straightaway rejected the pale script that was narrated by Vamshi. He met Vijay Devarakonda couple of months ago and Vijay too wasn't convinced with the idea that was pitched, narrated by Vamshi.

Vamshi recently met top Tamil actor Vijay and narrated him an interesting script. Vijay stepped out with a positive nod and Vamshi is currently working on the final draft. Dil Raju will produce this bilingual on Sri Venkateswara Creations banner. The project is expected to roll during the second half of 2022. It would be a long wait for Vamshi as Vijay needs to wrap up two projects before joining the sets of Vamshi Paidipally's film.

Vijay's 65th film will be directed by Nelson Dilipkumar and Sun Pictures are on board as the producers. Vijay will then work with Lokesh Kanagaraj in his next and Mythri Movie Makers are on board to produce this prestigious project.
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Tributes have been paid to a modest and unassuming 22-year-old British man killed in a stampede at a Jewish festival in Israel.

Moshe Bergman, from Salford, Greater Manchester, was one of 45 people who died in the disaster at Mount Meron on Friday, a family spokesman said.

He was studying to become a Rabbi in Israel, where he lived with his wife who he married around 18 months ago.

In a statement released on the familys behalf, Rabbi Arnold Saunders said Mr Bergman was a wonderful and dedicated husband, son and brother.

People gather around candles during a vigil in Tel Aviv in memory of the 45 ultra-Orthodox Jews killed in the stampede (Oded Balilty/AP)

He said: His smile lit up a room and his cheerful countenance was uplifting and inspiring. He was a true and devoted friend to so many.

Nothing was too much trouble for him. He was modest and unassuming, studious and hard-working.

He had a great future ahead of him but alas the almighty had other ideas which we accept without question or bitterness  despite our grief and pain.

The crush took place at the Lag BaOmer religious festival, which was attended by nearly 100,000 mostly ultra-Orthodox Jews in northern Israel.

It occurred as thousands of people funnelled through a narrow passageway descending the mountain early on Friday.

People then reportedly fell on top of each other near a walkway after going down metal stairs.

Some 45 people were killed and 150 were injured in what has been described as Israels deadliest civilian disaster.

The festival went ahead despite national coronavirus restrictions preventing gatherings of more than 500 people outdoors.

Mr Bergmans family did not wish to apportion blame for what they described as a tragic accident, said Mr Saunders who represents Kersal on Salford City Council.

Of course lessons must be learnt so that no family will have to suffer a similar tragedy in the future, he said.

We call upon the community both locally and in Israel to come together in a spirit of unity and reflection.

The site is believed to be the burial place of prominent second-century sage Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai.

The countrys prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has promised an inquiry will take place into the tragedy, after calling it one of the worst disasters that has befallen the state of Israel.

However, while visiting the area, Mr Netanyahu was jeered by dozens of ultra-Orthodox protesters who blamed the government and police for the incident.

A Foreign Office spokesman said: Our thoughts are with the family and friends of a British man who sadly died at the Mount Meron stampede.
The Duke of Sussex has praised the worlds frontline medical workers at a concert in Los Angeles in his first public appearance since the Duke of Edinburghs funeral.

Harry appeared along with a host of famous names from the worlds of music, film and politics at Global Citizens Vax Live: The Concert to Reunite the World, a charity performance in aid of the international Covid vaccination effort.

Speaking to an animated crowd of only fully vaccinated guests, the duke pleaded for vaccines to be distributed to everyone everywhere, while also saluting frontline medical workers both at the concert and around the world.

Tonight is a celebration of each of you here, the vaccinated frontline workers in the audience and the millions of frontline heroes around the world, Harry said.

You spent the last year battling courageously and selflessly to protect us all. You served and sacrificed, put yourselves in harms way, and acted with bravery, knowing the costs. We owe you an incredible debt of gratitude. Thank you.

Harry at the Vax Live event (Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP)

The event to promote coronavirus vaccines was Harrys first public appearance since Philips funeral on April 17, and his first in the US since he and pregnant wife Meghan  who was not at the concert  gave their dramatic interview to Oprah Winfrey in March.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are campaign chairs for the event.

Hosted by Selena Gomez, the concert  to be broadcast this Saturday  featured musical performances by Jennifer Lopez, Pearl Jams Eddie Vedder, Foo Fighters, J Balvin and HER.

The event raised 53.8 million dollars (38.8 million) for Covax, which is working to provide vaccines for low and middle-income countries.

Organisers said it was enough to help purchase almost 10.3 million vaccine doses.

Messages about vaccine equity were heard from guests including Ben Affleck, David Letterman, Gayle King, Jimmy Kimmel and Sean Penn.

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US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden also made a special appearance through Global Citizens partnership with the White Houses We Can Do This initiative, which encourages measures including mask-wearing.

President Biden said in a video address that the US was working with leaders around the world to share more vaccines and boost production to make sure every country has the vaccines they need.

Prior to the concert, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex released a statement saying: Over the past year, our world has experienced pain, loss, and struggle  together. Now we need to recover and heal  together.

We cant leave anybody behind. We will all benefit, we will all be safer, when everyone, everywhere has equal access to the vaccine.

We must pursue equitable vaccine distribution, and, in that, restore faith in our common humanity. This mission couldnt be more critical or important.

The concert will be aired on US television on Sunday May 8 while a 90-minute version will also be streamed on YouTube on the Global Citizen channel on the same day.
Sir Jeffrey Donaldson, who has announced his DUP leadership bid, is currently the partys leader at Westminster.

He holds the title of the longest-serving MP from Northern Ireland and has been walking the halls of Westminster during various periods since 1997.

His decision to run for party leader has sparked an open contest for the role for the first time in the partys history since it was founded in 1971.

The 58-year-old, who was born in Kilkeel in Co Down, first started out with the Ulster Unionist Party (UUP), which he joined at a young age.

Sir Jeffrey Donaldson started out with the UUP (Brian Lawless/PA)

Sir Jeffrey has previously spoken about the first time the Troubles visited his family following the murder of his cousin Samuel Donaldson, an RUC constable.

He was the first policeman to be blown up by the IRA in the conflict.

It was this event that influenced Sir Jeffreys decision to enter political life.

At the age of 16, he followed his family tradition by becoming a member of the Orange Order, and later followed in the footsteps of his late father Jim by joining the Ulster Defence Regiment (UDR).

Sir Jeffrey Donaldson celebrates during the 2017 general election (Brian Lawless/PA)

The former Ulster Unionist is seen as a moderate whose political outlook would be broadly in line with Arlene Fosters.

In 1985, aged 22, he was elected to the Northern Ireland Assembly, becoming the youngest person to win a seat at Stormont.

His relationship with former UUP leader David Trimble began to crumble over the Good Friday Agreement.

Sir Jeffrey led a walkout of the 1998 peace talks after opposing the early release of republican and loyalist prisoners.

Former UUP leader David Trimble and Sir Jeffrey Donaldson at the partys annual conference at the Waterfront Hall in Belfast (Paul Faith/PA)

He left the party along with Mrs Foster and Norah Beare and joined the DUP in January 2004.

There is a sense that the traditional wing of the DUP never quite trusted Mrs Foster due to her UUP roots, and Sir Jeffrey could face a similar challenge if he was to succeed her.

In 2009, Sir Jeffrey apologised for claiming for pay-to-view movies on his parliamentary expenses during hotel stays.

He repaid the 555 and said he was wrong to submit the claims.

Members of the Orange Order, left to right, Lord Kilclooney, Sir Jeffrey Donaldson, David Burnside and Michael Phelan outside Westminster Abbey (Fiona Hanson/PA)

While the cost of the films was in the highest price category, Sir Jeffrey denied the movies he watched were of an adult nature.

Asked what films he was watching, Sir Jeffrey said they included the Star Wars trilogy and The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe.

He was recognised by the Queen in her 2016 Birthday Honours and was given a knighthood.
Packaged food stocks have become spoiled trades thus far in 2021 as Wall Street frets about a growth slowdown later this year with people becoming more mobile after getting their COVID-19 vaccine.

Year-to-date, shares of beverage giants Coca-Cola and PepsiCo are down 2.1% and 3.8%, respectively despite each putting up impressive first quarters this month and solid outlooks. The S&P 500 is up a tasty 11% in 2021, by comparison.

Meanwhile, food company stocks have fallen out of favor with investors, too. Frozen food behemoth Conagra has seen its stock only gain 2% this year. Campbell Soup shares are down 1.2%. Spam maker Hormel shares have shed 1%.

Despite the unsavory performance of their stocks, Big Food is still seeing some very large increases in demand for their products amidst the pandemic. Downbeat Wall Street may not want to hear it right now, but the latest sales gains in things like cereal suggest eating-at-home won't experience a drastic falloff later this year and into 2022 as human mobility returns.

"The COVID-19 pandemic has presented an incredible consumer trialing opportunity. Our innovation and marketing approach has enabled us to secure not only strong trial, but also strong repeat rates and market share gains. Based on the evidence we are seeing, we expect to emerge from the pandemic with structurally higher volumes and share, driven by the stickiness of the COVID-driven demand," opined Conagra Brands CEO Sean Connolly on the company's early April earnings call.

Here are five foods that consumers are still devouring as the pandemic rages on. And they may continue to do so for the foreseeable future.

Frozen food

Conagra's frozen food business remains red-hot during the pandemic.

The maker of Healthy Choice frozen dinners and Birds Eye frozen veggies saw another quarter of huge demand to kick off the year. Conagra's frozen food retail sales surged 12% year-over-year for the quarter ended Feb. 28, helped by COVID-19 demand but also investments in making better-tasting products. The company said sales growth "accelerated" from the prior quarter in many of its frozen food brands.

"The adoption of remote work provides a structural increase in the demand for frozen food compared to pre-COVID levels. Importantly, some aspects of the remote workforce adoption are expected to be permanent and this shift to remote work has the biggest impact on lunch and dinner occasions, the meals with the largest exposure to frozen foods," said Conagra Brands CEO Sean Connolly.

Cookies

Oreo cookies remain a favorite during the pandemic. (Photo by Igor Golovniov/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

After a hearty frozen food dinner, consumers appear to still be reaching for a cookie (or 12) for dessert, judging by the sales results at Oreo maker Mondelez.

First quarter sales for Oreo rose by a high-single digit percentage, the company revealed in its earnings release on Tuesday. Sales for the Chips Ahoy! brand increased by mid-single digits in the quarter.

"All of the ingredients are there for us to be able to have a great year," Mondelez CFO Luca Zaramella told Yahoo Finance Live.

Cereal

Cereal continues to sell well during the pandemic. Photo credit: Reuters/Jim Young

Before a day chock full of frozen food and cookies begins, one is likely still pouring a bowl of Cheerios at five o'clock in the morning.

Cheerios and Twix maker General Mills saw U.S. cereal sales rise 9% for the quarter ended Feb. 28.

"We really believe that our sales both in terms of pounds and pricing is going to be higher than it was pre-pandemic, and we are seeing that in the first couple of weeks of the month and we are confident the consumer behaviors arent changing as quickly as some would think," General Mills CEO Jeff Harmening told analysts on a late March earnings call.

Fast-food hamburgers

Hamburgers remain popular during the pandemic. (Photo Illustration by Scott Olson/Getty Images)

A trip to fast-food drive-thrus continue to be en vogue with people during the pandemic. And it's likely they are reaching for a hamburger.

First quarter U.S. same-store sales at McDonald's and Burger King rose 13.6% and 6.6%, respectively.

Restaurant Brands CEO Jose Cil told Yahoo Finance Live diners are also loading up on the chain's dollar menu items. Restaurant Brands is the parent company of Burger King.

Chocolate

Chocolate is a pandemic favorite. (UNITED STATES)

Nothing like soothing one's pandemic fears by downing a few pieces of chocolate.

Sales for Mondelez-owned Cadbury surged by a double-digit percentage in the first quarter. Mondelez CFO Luca Zaramella told Yahoo Finance Live people continue to consume high levels of food at home.

The upbeat tone was similar at Cadbury rival Hershey in the first quarter. Hershey's sales in North America rose 12.8%.

"We're in a unique period right now of dual strength. We're seeing continuing strong at-home consumption really carrying over from last year," Hershey CFO Steve Voskuil told Yahoo Finance Live.

A version of this article was first published on April 28, 2021.

Brian Sozzi is an editor-at-large and anchor at Yahoo Finance. Follow Sozzi on Twitter @BrianSozzi and on LinkedIn.

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BAE Systems has signed a contract worth around $200 million to produce and deliver 127 BvS10 all-terrain vehicles to the Swedish Army, adding to its existing fleet of BvS10s. The contract signed with the Swedish military procurement agency, FMV, is for both command and control and logistics vehicles. Deliveries of the 127 vehicles are planned to begin in 2022 and be complete in 2024.

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BAE Systems BvS10 displayed at DSEI 2019 International Defense and Security Exhibition in London. (Picture source: Army Recognition)

Sweden already operates the BvS10 as well as its predecessor, the Bv206. The vehicle can traverse rocks, mountains, snow, swamps, and Arctic environments, and its amphibious capability allows it to seamlessly transition to swimming. The BvS10's flexible and modular design accommodates changing mission requirements, including advanced battle management.

"The investment from Sweden provides the Swedish Army with more of these extremely mobile, capable and robust vehicles. This continued investment in the BvS10 is an important step toward further opportunities in Sweden and internationally for the BvS10 and its Beowulf unarmored variant," said Tommy Gustafsson-Rask, managing director of BAE Systems Hagglunds. "This also demonstrates the strong and trusted relationship between BAE Systems and the Swedish customer to deliver the capabilities the Swedish military needs."

The Swedish BvS10s feature enhanced crew ergonomics, greater internal volume, and advanced protection, building on BAE Systems' legacy Bv206 vehicles, of which more than 10,000 have been sold to more than 40 countries. The BvS10 has been deployed for missions to Afghanistan,

Central Africa, the Balkans, and the Middle East.

"We see increased interest from many countries for extreme mobility capabilities, such as those seen on our BvS10 and Beowulf platforms. We are especially looking forward to the joint four-nations collaborative all-terrain procurement involving Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden, and the United Kingdom," added Gustafsson-Rask. Today Austria, France, the Netherlands, Sweden, and the United Kingdom are operators of the BvS10.



Sweden already operates the BvS10 and its predecessor, the Bv206. (Picture source: BAE Systems)
Stalin to take oath of office in simple ceremony

Governor Banwarilal Purohit is likely to swear in Stalin as Chief Minister at a simple function inside the Raj Bhavan in view of the coronavirus pandemic. (Photo: DMK - Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam)

Chennai: The DMK is set to storm Fort St George for the sixth time after 10 years with party president M. K. Stalin becoming the Chief Minister for the first time as the results of the April 6 elections for the state Assembly till 10 pm on Sunday indicated a clear victory for the party.

Governor Banwarilal Purohit is likely to swear in Stalin as Chief Minister at a simple function inside the Raj Bhavan in view of the coronavirus pandemic, though the party is said to have shown interest in having a gala affair at the university auditorium.

Throughout the day, the DMK and its allies were doing well even as counting of votes went on with intermittent breaks to sanitize the rooms every two hours since 8 am when the process began.

The alliance emerged a clear winner as counting progressed, prompting leaders from across the country to send congratulatory messages and by afternoon it became clear that the DMK would be able to form the next government on its own.

The ruling AIADMK won and was leading in a substantial number of constituencies to qualify as the Opposition in the Assembly though many of its ministers lost out to candidates of the DMK alliance. Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami swept in his Edappadi constituency.

Among the ministers who lost were K. Pandiarajan to S. M. Nasar in Avadi constituency, K. T. Rajenthra Bhalaji to Thangapandian in Rajapalayam, D. Jayakumar to R. Murthy in Royapuram, Velamandi Natarajan to Inigo Irudhyaraj in Trichy East, M. R. Vijayabaskar to Senthil Balaji in Karur, M. C. Sampath to Iyappan in Cuddalore, C. V. Shanmugham to Lakshmanan in Villupuram, K. C. Veeramani to Devaraj in Jolarpettai and P. Benjamin in Maduravoyal.

The DMKs decisive victory was evident only by the afternoon as the initial trends showed the AIADMK alliance closely following it. However the Amma Munnetra Kazhagam of T. T. V. Dhinakaran, which was expected to make an impact in some parts of southern Tamil Nadu, and Naam Tamizhar Katchi of Seeman did not show any signs of winning even a single seat right from the beginning.

Makkal Needhi Maiam of Kamal Haasan was showing a possibility of the party founder alone winning from Coimbatore West. The race for the victory post continued to be a neck and neck affair for the three candidates in the constituency  Kamal, BJPs Vanathi Sreenivasan and Congress Mayura Jayakumar  till late evening, when the BJP nominee took a clear lead.

The BJP in fact won in Nagercoil and Tirunelveli constituencies in southern Tamil Nadu, besides Modkurichi in Erode district, thus taking the total tally of MLAs in the next Assembly to four. It is a remarkable breakthrough for the party that had been floundering in the elections that it contested on its own.

Seemans party drew a blank, though the party founder claimed that they had grown and that the youth of the State were solidly behind him. He said that his partys vote share has gone up from 4 per cent in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections to 10 per cent now, though all the candidates lost miserably in all the constituencies, including Seeman in Thiruvottiyur.

Though crowding outside the counting centre was banned by the Election Commission of India in view of the pandemic, counting agents of various parties thronged the centres on time, at around 7 am, and the process kicked off at 8 am.

Postal ballots were taken up first and then the EVMs for counting. Just as it seemed that the DMK was having a march over the rest, posters came up all over the State thanking the people for reposing faith in Stalin. Also a crowd of around 300 people gathered at DMK headquarters to celebrate the victory by distributing sweets, lighting crackers, raising slogans and breaking into a dance. Party organization secretary R .S .Bharthi had to rush to Anna Arivalayam to explain to the enthusiastic cadre about the ECI norms and coax them to leave the premises, which they did reluctantly.

Police then erected barricades to prevent the crowds from reaching the place as the celebrations at one point spilled over to Anna Salai itself, despite the Sunday lockdown in force.

Soon, as the DMKs victory was confirmed with party candidates taking decisive leads, Stalin started getting visitors at his residence. Party cadre too started trooping there to express their happiness to the leader. So the police cracked down and erected barricades to prevent crowding.

Many top party leaders like T. R. Balu, Kanimozhi and A. Raja went in to congratulate Stalin personally. Then started the stream of visitors from the police and bureaucracy. Many IAS and IPS officers called on the next Chief Minister, though party cadre were not allowed entry into the road.
We have lost our empathy for those who are unlike us and we do not even recognise that we have lost it

A preamble is a short preparatory statement and an introduction to a Constitution. The preamble tells us what the purpose of the constitution is and what the laws are meant to achieve. Indias Constitution says the people of India (not the government) have resolved to make India a democracy, which will ensure for all its citizens social justice, economic justice and political justice. We will ensure we have freedom of thought, religion, and expression. We will have equality of status and opportunity. We have ignored all these, of course, and never in our history have we enjoyed fully any of these freedoms. But it is the last line of the preamble that we should look at today. It says that the people of India will give themselves fraternity.

What is fraternity? The word means bandhuta in Hindi. It is feeling empathy for someone who is not like you. We do not require the government to feel empathy for our own. Indians are especially community minded. We marry among our own, we are comfortable among our own and for the most part we vote for our own community. Fraternity is to reach out and touch and feel for someone who is not like you. Whether the person is from a different community or different economic background. Are we living up to this word in our preamble? The answer is no. We are not promoting fraternity of any sort.

Our recent history tells us that not only do we not promote fraternity, we promote its opposite. When, before the lockdown, and before the guidelines were in place, when daily new cases of Covid-19 were only 100 around the country and one community organises a religious gathering, they are called Covid terrorists. When another community organises the largest gathering in human history while cases are over one lakh per day, this doesnt just not only not attract criticism, but the event is happening at the invitation of the Prime Minister. We are not promoting social fraternity.

Our country has hundreds of deaths annually from a system called manual scavenging where workers, who are mostly Dalit women, have to clean toilets by their hand. The government has banned this practice, but it still continues. Septic tanks and drains are cleaned manually mostly by Dalit men, many of whom die of the poison these spaces contain. This is also not supposed to happen, but because most of the rest of us dont care, it continues despite innumerable court orders. We are simply not promoting caste fraternity.

The Government of India has, as of the day that I am writing this piece, opened up vaccinations to those who can afford it in private hospitals. They charge over Rs 1,200 for one shot of Covaxin. You need another shot after six weeks, so that is Rs 2,400 per individual. How many families of five in India can afford to pay Rs 12,000 for vaccines which will last one year? The poor have been left to their own devices. The Centre has told the states to vaccinate them but has given the states neither money nor vaccines. Those who observed the proceedings at the Supreme Court on Friday were struck by how the court pointed out something that the government has not explained: why are different Indians paying different prices to protect themselves from Covid-19? Shouldnt it be the responsibility of the Centre to do this? It is, but it does not believe in economic fraternity. If you have money in India, you can be vaccinated, and this difference will just have to be accepted. We are not promoting economic fraternity.

Since 2014, more than 28,000 dollar millionaires (meaning those who have more than Rs 7.5 crore) have left India to become citizens of other nations. This should not surprise us. We have gone down a path which has left optimism. We are today demanding votes on laws which exclude and target people on the basis of their religion. We are today celebrating the destruction of monuments and the building of temples on them. We are today at this moment carrying out the reconstruction of New Delhi which will cost us Rs 20,000 crore and give the Prime Minister a new house, while crores of people have no means and no money to buy vaccines for their children. We are going through a national crisis of unprecedented proportions. We have not been affected in Independent India on this scale over a virus that has picked on all of us equally but has killed fewer of those who have had access to a bed, ventilator and oxygen. In Bengaluru, I have a colleague who lost his job and had to pay Rs 22,000 a day with his wife and child also infected. But he was one of the lucky ones. For most Indians, this is not possible. They will die in their homes, as the difference in the official Covid-19 deaths versus the numbers reported by the press and the number of funeral pyres show. They will die without treatment and no possibility of treatment.

Not only is this not fraternity, its contempt of the word fraternity. We have lost our empathy for those who are unlike us and we do not even recognise that we have lost it. Our Constitution told us that we have to try and understand and support those who are unlike us. The fact is that we do not even know that we are supposed to do that.
The Gujarat model has been long exposed as bogus. There is light seen at the end of the tunnel

The second wave of Covid-19 began on February 10 when India reported 11,000 new cases. In the next 50 days, the daily average was 22,000 cases. In the following 10 days the daily average touched 89,800. We are now adding over 400,000 a day. India has never been engulfed by a crisis of this order.

We are woefully short of hospital beds, oxygen, Remdesivir and Tocli-zumab, vaccines, ambulances and sadly even space in our crematoria. The growth and spread are expected to scale to almost a million a day. In two months, India has become the worlds basket case. Yet, on January 28 this year, speaking to the World Economic Forum in Davos, Prime Minister Narendra Modi showed a blissful and disturbing ignorance of the perfect storm looming. The committee of scientists monitoring the virus warned the PMO of the gathering storm. He was not interested. He was crowing about his perceived achievement of beating back the much-mutated Chinese virus. He was so wrong, and the country is paying a huge price. There is no Modi image of competence left.

The elections to the four states and Puducherry, which he was so focused on, have been his undoing. He began campaigning on February 5 and 7 in Assam and West Bengal. After that he addressed 20 more rallies in West Bengal and six more in Assam. He also addressed 10 rallies in Tamil Nadu, three in Kerala and one in Puducherry, in all around 40 giant rallies crisscrossing across in IAF Boeings. I wouldnt even hazard the true cost to the exchequer, but I have heard it said the PM himself is liable to a charge of Rs 6 per air km. Other costs are borne by the PMO. But the cost is not important. The time spent on huckstering is important. He lost almost a month campaigning, instead of managing the engulfing crisis. I always had a low opinion of his intellect, but even he could have surmised the risks posed to the nation by the renewed pandemic. Clearly, he factored winning West Bengal was more important and worth the cost. Mr Modi himself cheerfully paraphrased what Gopal Krishna Gokhale said almost 100 years ago: What Bengal thinks today, India thinks tomorrow!

West Bengal has unambiguously expressed what it is thinking. It has rejected Mr Modi and his message and campaign-style, lock, stock and barrel. A subservient Election Commission helpfully broke up West Bengals polls into eight phases starting March 27 and closing April 29. During this period the daily Covid-19 cases rose in West Bengal from 812 to 17,403. Breaking it into eight phases didnt help the BJP either. It lost in every phase and got double digits only in four. West Bengal has a sizable Muslim electorate and Mr Modi didnt mince words in targeting them by making it appear they were Mamata Banerjees personal votebank. He didnt bother to even conceal what he thought of them. His electoral style touched a new low, even by his standards and most certainly by the standards expected of a PM, when he jibed her by catcalling Didi-O-Didi. Urban Bengal responded to this by defeating the BJP soundly in all urban constituencies. There is a message here. All over the country the BJP and RSS have strong urban bases, but urban and urbane Bengal administered a resounding slap to gutter politics. With no record to show, Mr Modis politics are nothing but that now.

There was no surprise in Assam. The BJP was returned by almost the same margin as in 2016, getting a majority with the AGPs nine seats. The Congress lacked a visible local leadership who could match wits with the BJPs Hemanta Biswa Sarma. Tamil Nadu was as expected. The two so-called national parties were clinging to crumbs thrown by the two so-called Dravidian parties. In Kerala, Pinrayi Vijayan showed why hes Indias topmost and only surviving commissar. The DMKs Stalin made no bones about what he thinks of Mr Modis Hindu and Hindi-centric politics. The Modi government used every means, including ED raids, to slow down Stalin. The ED even raided Stalins daughter.

So where does our politics go from here? One clear conclusion is that both the BJP and Congress were dealt severe blows. Its interesting the BJPs campaigns were entirely shouldered by Narendra Modi and Amit Shah. None of the other top BJP leaders even bothered to show up anywhere. What shouldnt be missed is that the Raksha Mantri, a former BJP president, was the first from the party to congratulate Mamata Banerjee. In Assam, Mr Sarmas supporters have gone public crediting the victory to their leader. Mr Sarma has already fired a shot across Sarbananda Sonowals bow, saying he was no longer interested in being just a minister in someones Cabinet. The numbers might work for him, as he needs just a dozen MLAs to cross over and give Assam a new government. Mr Sarma was a Congress satrap till Rahul Gandhi insulted him by playing with his dog rather than listening to him. Rahul will be all ears now.

Mamata Banerjees stunning victory puts her squarely on the centre stage of Opposition politics. Joining her there will be Lalu Prasad Yadav, released on bail by the Supreme Court despite the governments strenuous objections. Tejashwi Yadav has shown hes capable of leading a party when the RJD came so close to upstaging the BJP-JDU alliance in Bihar. Rajasthans Ashok Gehlot and Punjabs Amarinder Singh have emerged as fairly independent Congress satraps. Uddhav Thackeray has shrugged off the Shiv Senas pariah status by providing Maharashtra with good leadership and a penchant for making politics the art of the possible. In Telangana, KCR has put the BJP in its place by a resounding win in Nagarjunasagar after its surprise showing in the Dubbaka and GHMC polls. YSRC scored a resounding win in Tirupati with the BJP candidate, a retired chief secretary, losing her deposit. The anti-BJP lineup now has seven chief ministers, excluding Naveen Patnaik. Seven CMs will mean the election and propaganda machines can be kept well-greased and the powder kegs dry and replenished. Prime Minister Modis inability to defend India against the second Covid-19 wave, and his inability to cajole the Chinese from withdrawing from areas they occupied in Ladakh now make him an easy target. The Gujarat model has been long exposed as bogus. There is light seen at the end of the tunnel.
Its been almost nine months since the Grizzly Creek Fire burn scar area was at its most stark, in August, but the dangers of debris flow, mudslides and floods persist. It was those risks  coupled with forecasts for inclement weather  that led to the Colorado Department of Transportation closing rest areas and recreation paths through Glenwood Canyon along Interstate 70 Sunday evening.
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The German automaker entered this event with the sole purpose of demonstrating the capabilities of the MEB vehicle architecture, which underpins the onlythat Volkswagen sells in the United States nowadays. But like any other EV, the ID.4 is limited by the range of its battery pack.Fousts car is a rear-wheel-drive 1st Edition that can travel up to 250 miles (402 kilometers) in one go according to the Environmental Protection Agency. There are no charging points in the Baja peninsula where the NORRA Mexican 1000 was held, and this brings us to how Volkswagen kept the ID.4 going for so long. Between stages, which measure anything between 33 to 167 miles (53 and 269 kilometers), the Rhys Millen Racing-modified ID.4 was charged by a portable biofuel generator connected to a 50-flat charger.In a few instances where the charger wasnt available, the Volkswagen-backed team flat-towed the ID.4 behind a chase vehicle, using the regenerative braking to add range. As youre well aware, charging is what hampered down the cars potential to finish higher than 61st place.The most important takeaway is that Tanner finished the race with no mechanical issues after five grueling days in the desert. He and co-driver Emme Hall also had to be dragged out of some sand on the first day, but otherwise, the ID.4 never skipped a beat despite the bone-stock powertrain.What did Volkswagen modify, you ask? Typical of an off-road event, the suspension had to be reworked with rally-style coilovers and tubular control arms. The radiator was also raised a few inches to improve approach angles, and 3/8-inch skid plates were added to the undercarriage for good measure.If youre in the market for a 201-horsepower and 82-electric crossover, Volkswagen is much obliged to sell you an ID.4 as long as its not the 1st Edition. Pro is the name of the most affordable trim level with similar specifications, and $39,995 excluding the $7,500 federal tax credit makes it a pretty neat alternative to the likes of the ever-popular Tesla Model Y.
Since October of last year, Baidu has been conducting public autonomous driving tests in areas such as Yizhuang, Haidian, and Shunyi. The introduction of completely driverless robotaxi services in the capital represents a starting point for commercialized operations in first-tier Chinese cities.According to Chinese media, Hongqi HS5 vehicles will be equipped with Baidu's self-driving technology. The roof of the cars features a 360 panoramic camera and radar. Compared with the traditional models, the automatic driving system that detects road conditions is more accurate, and the cars have a longer range.So, how does the process work? Well, the passengers can come to the specific taxi stop, then click on the Apollo go app to locate a robotaxi in the vicinity. After entering the destination, they can order themselves a driverless ride. Features include virtual reality navigation and remote car honking that can help users to identify where the car is.To unlock the vehicles, a QR code needs to be scanned. After the passenger onboards, they can click the "Start the Journey" button, and the system checks if the seat belts are on and if the doors are safely closed. Only after detecting no problems, the vehicle will start moving. The 5G Remote Driving Service will allow people to remotely access the self-driving cars in case of emergency.During the Winter Olympics , the autonomous vehicles will be available to provide pick-up services for athletes and staff. As claimed by Chinese media, Baidu will operate at first about ten driverless taxis in Beijing Shougang Park. The service will be open to the public, and it will charge 30 yuan ($4,63) for a single trip.
But on the other hand, choosing the right navigation app isnt necessarily easy business, not only because of the features they provide but also due to whats happening under their hood.Chinese authorities, for example, have issued a warning that no less than 33 mobile applications, including a bunch of navigation apps from tech giants like Baidu and Tencent, are accessing all kinds of user details they dont really need, and in many cases, they do the whole thing without asking for consent.This is obviously serious business, and the Chinese Cyberspace Administration warns that all developers need to update their apps to align with the local privacy guidelines or otherwise be subject to penalties. The updates must be released to users in a maximum of 10 days, the regulator warns, explaining that the data some apps are trying to collect is extremely sensitive and in some cases includes contact lists.On a similar front, tech giant Apple has recently launched a new iOS update that forces developers to inform users whenever their apps are trying to track them across other apps or websites.Called App Tracking Transparency, the new policy requires app makers to display a prompt upon launch, essentially giving users the option to block the tracking if they dont agree with their data to be accessed. In some cases, the collected information is accessed by third parties or resold to other companies to provide targeted advertising, with Apple warning that consumers could end up becoming a product per se.China has introduced a new set of rules to protect Internet users, including a policy that blocks developers from banning users who dont agree to provide personal information not required for the apps to work properly.
Astronauts Michael Hopkins, Victor Glover, and Shannon Walker, as well as Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency astronaut Soichi Noguchi, landed in a parachute-assisted splashdown off the coast of Panama City, Florida at 2:56 a.m. EDT. The spacecraft and astronauts were successfully recovered by crews on SpaceX rescue vessels. NASA 's SpaceX Crew-1 took off on a Falcon 9 rocket from the agency's Kennedy Space Center in Florida last year on November 15th. The next day, the crew Dragon Resilience was docking to the Harmony module's forward port of the space station.On April 5th this year, after six months in space, the four astronauts boarded Resilience for a port relocation maneuver. The move allowed for the port to receive another four Crew-2 astronauts to ISS on April 24th.Overall, Crew-1 traveled 71,242,199 miles during their 167 days stay and completed 2,688 orbits around our planet. The splashdown also broke the American crewed spacecraft mission duration record of 84 days, 1 hour, and 15 minutes, set by the Skylab crew in February 1974.During their mission, the astronauts studied protein crystal development to advance new drug discoveries, robotic assistant technologies, developed crops, and tested a new method of producing semiconductor crystals.They provided hundreds of images of Earth as part of the Crew Earth Observation investigation, one of the longest-running investigations aboard the space station that tracks natural disasters on Earth. The Crew-1 astronauts also had significant roles to play in five spacewalks outside the orbiting laboratory.The second Commercial Crew Program splashdown took place just over a week after the launch of NASA's SpaceX Crew-2 flight, the second long-duration mission. The Crew-2 astronauts launched on April 23rd and will live and work on the ISS for about six months before returning to Earth. Crew-3, the next NASA and SpaceX crewed flight, is scheduled to launch later this year, no later than October 23rd.
The term KF stands for Kettenfahrzeug, which means tracked vehicle in German. The Lynx combat vehicle family aims to be a very versatile concept, developed into two versions. The first one is the "petite" KF31 machine, weighing in at just under 38 tons, with a seating capacity of 3+6 soldiers. The bigger brother is called the KF41, and it is slightly heftier and has a carrying capacity of 3+8 military personnel.The Lynx line of warfare vehicles is highly customizable, being able to sustain all kinds of roles on the modern battlefields, such as infantry fighting vehicles ( IFVs ), command and control centres, armored reconnaissance machines, repair and recovery units, and can even function as ambulances.Besides, the simplified logistics offered by many shared parts and components specific to the Lynx range of vehicles make the hurdles of repairing, maintaining, and in-theatre servicing interventions much easier to overcome, so that the military forces always remain protected from any additional jeopardy. In fact, the KF31 and KF41 tracked vehicles are so readily configurable that a complete change from one configuration to another can occur in just 8 hours.

At the core of the KF vehicles one can find an impressive drivetrain made up of an 1,140 hp Liebherr engine and a Renk transmission. Moreover, the suspension system conceived by Supashock is ready to support any mission packages or military equipment without any sacrifices to mobility and maneuverability.For example, a KF41 equipped with a Lance 2.0 turret and its specific combat kit weighs in at almost 44 tons, but it still has 6 tons of remaining payload to spare for additional equipment and military personnel. The Lance 2.0 turret intends explicitly to function as a passive and reactive protection system and even work as a defense mechanism against rocket-propelled grenades and antitank guided missiles.Furthermore, the Wotan 35 electrically driven cannon can offer even more firepower, provided it makes use of the Rheinmetall's 35x228mm class ammunition. Not least, the Lance 2.0 comes fitted with two flexible mission pods arranged to the left and right of the turret. They can be configured to any client's desire to support sub-systems such as Rafael Spike LR2 ATGMs, non-line of sight strike munitions, or many more electronic warfare facilities.In September 2020, the Hungarian Army became the launch customer for the Lynx KF41 combat vehicle, partnering up with Rheinmetall to produce a number of 218 IFVs, specifically designed to Hungarian standards to best suit their needs.The Australian Army also manifested great interest in the KF41 IFV and maneuver support vehicle variants, and also plans to test out the medical, personal carrier, and mission command configurations.The Czech Republic has a long history of collaboration with Rheinmetall, which partnered up in the automotive field decades ago. They manifested genuine interest in setting up training facilities, sharing technical expertise, and even create entire military vehicle centers.For the American market, the KF family of combat vehicles represents a solid contender for the Optionally-Manned Fighting Vehicle ( OMFV ) program. It aims to deliver a fighting machine equipped with the ultimate firepower, protection, and mobility solutions while being capable of being operated manned and, more importantly, in unmanned modes.Rheinmetall is a company based in Dusseldorf, Germany, doing business in the field of mobility and security, mostly for the automotive and defense industries.
Toyota is stepping up in the world of motorsports. Aside from having the Yaris WRC and the GR010 Hybrid in rally and endurance racing, respectively, Toyota will soon be joining yet another series, the World Touring Car Cup (WTCR).

The question now is, what vehicle will they use to compete in WTCR? There are various choices available, but according to Toyota Gazoo Racing (TGR), the Corolla has been chosen. Dont expect to see the sporty hatchback going around circuits in the future though. Instead, TGR say that the Corolla Sedan has been designated as the TCR race car.

The companys Argentina division will be the one responsible for the Corolla TCR's development. From homologation, subsequent development, production, and sales of the TCR Corolla Sedan, Toyota Gazoo Racing Argentina will be the exclusive manufacturer of the new touring race car.

We are proud to have received authorization from our headquarters to be responsible for homologating, developing, manufacturing, and sales of a Toyotas competition vehicle for TCR competition. For us, it is a double satisfaction, because our team will be responsible for the expected arrival of Toyota to the TCR series around the world and also because this project will give us the possibility of promoting Argentina's Motorsports industry to the world, said Daniel Herrero, president of Toyota Argentina and Chief Operating Officer of Toyota Gazoo Racing Latin America.

The exact specifications of the upcoming touring car still remain a mystery but based on homologation rules, a TCR touring car is allowed to have a turbocharged engine with up to 2.0-liters in displacement and maximum power output of 350 PS. In addition, a minimum production of 5,000 samples in a year is required as well. Dont expect to find an all-wheel-drive powertrain. TCR regulates that it must be in a two-wheel-drive configuration.

With those types of figures and regulations, were curious as to what TGR Argentina will come up with for the TCR Corolla Sedan. Will they use a modified version of the GR Yaris three-cylinder turbo? Will they actually make a turbocharged version of Corollas 2.0-liter engine? And what will the touring car look like once they have a working prototype?

Technical and engineering works have already begun at TGR Argentina so we might be able to see some progress soon from Toyota. We certainly cannot wait for what Gazoo Racing will come up with.
Palmdale, CA (93550)

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Becoming partly cloudy and windy. High 79F. Winds SW at 20 to 30 mph. Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph..

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Clear. Windy early. Low around 55F. Winds SW at 20 to 30 mph. Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph.
India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) lost an election in the key state of West Bengal on Sunday.

Why it matters: Modi has been criticized for his handling of the pandemic amid a widespread oxygen shortage, record daily cases and a surging death toll, with accusations that the real numbers are much higher.

An Indian Medical Association official called Modi a "super-spreader" for holding "big political rallies" for the state elections last month, per the Tribune India.

By the numbers: The opposition All India Trinamool Congress won 213 of the 292 available seats in West Bengal and the Hindu nationalist BJP won the remaining 77, according to official figures, posted by the Election Commission of India Monday.

Of note: Modi predicted last month that the BJP would "win more than 200 seats in the state, which held voting over eight phases starting on March 27," Bloomberg notes.

The big picture: Opposition parties also won in the southern states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu, but the BJP retained power in the northeastern state of Assam and "gained the federally controlled territory of Puducherry, where it contested in alliance with a regional party," per Bloomberg.

What they're saying: Political commentator Arati Jerath told the New York Times the government is now "battling a public backlash on their mishandling of the COVID pandemic."

"It is bad news for Modi that three powerful regional chieftains are emerging from these elections," Jerath said.

Go deeper: Foreign aid pours into India as COVID-19 crisis worsens
Pfizer has committed to sending 4.5 million doses of its COVID-19 vaccine to South Africa by June, with some 300,000 set to arrive Sunday, Health Minister Zweli Mkhize has announced.

Why it matters: South Africa is battling the worst coronavirus outbreak on the continent and has struggled with a low vaccine supply, per Bloomberg. The country is also grappling with a dangerous variant of the virus.

Details: Shipments of Pfizer doses will arrive in the country on a weekly basis until June, Mkhize said.

In addition to the Pfizer doses, South Africa expects for stocks of the Johnson&Johnson vaccinethe release of which paused last month following safety concernsto be released by mid-May.

Go deeper: African countries struggle to deliver the few shots they've got
Armenias constitution stipulates that such elections can be held only if the prime minister resigns and the parliament twice fails to elect a new head of the government within two weeks. Pashinian and his cabinet formally stepped down for that purpose on April 25.

Deputies representing the parliaments pro-government majority did not reelect him or install another premier. They will vote again next Monday.

The two opposition parties represented in the current National Assembly assured Pashinian earlier that they will not nominate prime-ministerial candidates in the event of his election-related resignation.

Pashinian warned the Prosperous Armenia (BHK) and Bright Armenia (LHK) parties against breaking their promises when he spoke in the parliament before Mondays vote.

If there are attempts to breach the understandings  My Steps parliamentary group will elect a prime minister, he said. I hope there will be no such attempts.

Our understandings are not with Pashinian but with the people, LHK leader Edmon Marukian told reporters afterwards. We promised the people that we are going to dissolve this parliament so that the people elect a new one.

Pashinian first expressed readiness to hold early elections in December amid angry anti-government protests triggered by Armenias defeat in a six-week war with Azerbaijan. A coalition of opposition forces blamed him for the defeat and demanded that he hand over power to an interim government.

Pashinian and his My Step bloc stated on February 7 that they see no need for snap polls because of what they called a lack of public demand. The opposition alliance, called the Homeland Salvation Movement, resumed its street protests on February 20.

Five days later, the Armenian militarys top brass issued a statement accusing Pashinians government of misrule and incompetence and demanding its resignation. The prime minister rejected the demand as a coup attempt. He went on to announce on March 18 that the snap polls will take place after all.
Armenia fell from 61st to 63rd place in RSFs 2021 World Press Freedom Index covering 180 countries and territories. It was 80th in the rankings when the current Armenian government took office in the 2018 velvet revolution.

Media diversity has blossomed but the government that emerged from Armenias velvet revolution in the spring of 2018 has failed to reduce the medias polarization, reads the latest report released by the Paris-based watchdog.

Transparent media ownership and journalistic independence are still far from being achieved, it says. The latter was even more restricted during the state of emergency declared on 27 September 2020, at the start of the war in Nagorno-Karabakh.

There is concern about the volume of judicial proceedings against journalists and about excesses in the fight against fake news. The involvement of the security services in combatting disinformation and attempts to legislate without prior discussion with civil society and journalists are alarming, adds the report.

Commenting on the report on Monday, Ashot Melikian of the Yerevan-based Committee to Protect Freedom of Speech said it should send a clear signal to Prime Minister Nikol Pashinians administration.

Melikian said that over the past year the authorities have drafted or enacted a number of regressive bills strongly criticized by Armenian press freedom groups. He singled out two such bills which would make it harder for journalists to use anonymous news sources and triple maximum fines for defamation.

Boris Navasardian, the chairman of the Yerevan Press Club, likewise asserted that the authorities are seeking stronger influence on the media and its coverage of their activities.

Their main goal is to have the kind of presence in the media landscape that the former authorities had, giving the latter a great advantage over their political rivals, Navasardian told RFE/RLs Armenian Service.

Pashinian and his political allies maintain that the Armenian media is now more diverse and free than it was under the countrys previous governments.
Sarkissian lived and worked in London, including as Armenian ambassador to Britain, for nearly three decades prior to becoming Armenias largely ceremonial president three years ago.

The Armenian constitution requires presidential candidates considered by the National Assembly to have been only Armenian citizens for the last six years.

Sarkissian admitted receiving British citizenship in 2002 when the countrys former parliament controlled by his predecessor Serzh Sarkisians loyalists elected him president in March 2018. But he insisted that he renounced it in 2011.

Then opposition lawmakers, notably Nikol Pashinian, were unconvinced, demanding British documentary evidence of the veracity of his claims. Pashinian said afterwards that Sarkissian showed him such documents when they met in late April 2018 during the velvet revolution that brought him to power. The Armenian prime minister has never publicly questioned the presidents eligibility since then.

Earlier this year, 53 lawyers, including the head of the national bar association, submitted to Armenias Special Investigation Service (SIS) what they described as information showing that Sarkissian remained a British national after 2011. The law-enforcement agency refused to open a criminal case, leading the lawyers to appeal to the Office of the Prosecutor-General.

A spokesman for Prosecutor-General Artur Davtian said on Monday that he has decided to order the SIS to formally investigate a possible forgery of documents because he believes that doubts about Sarkissians eligibility have not been dispelled.

Only a full, objective and comprehensive inquiry can answer all questions, the official, Gor Abrahamian, told RFE/RLs Armenian Service.

Abrahamian said that the probe will scrutinize all available documents relating to Sarkissians British citizenship. I want to stress that at this point no final legal position can be taken with regard to them, he said.

Sarkissian and his office did not immediately react to the development.

Among the complainants is Ara Zohrabian, the chairman of Armenias Chamber of Advocates and a critic of Pashinians government. Zohrabian claimed that he and his colleagues possess records from a private British entity which show that Sarkissian remained a British national at least until 2012.

Serzh Sarkisian commented on the issue in a televised interview aired over the weekend. He said he still believes that the current president met the eligibility criteria set by the constitution.
Brian Smith served four years in the U.S. Marine Corps, and retired as an assistant chief with the California Highway Patrol. He resides in Bakersfield. If you have a personal Cop Tale to share, please contact Smith at bmsmith778@gmail.com.
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Rain showers this morning with numerous thunderstorms developing during the afternoon hours. High 74F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%..

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Variable clouds with showers and scattered thunderstorms. Storms more numerous this evening. Low 63F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%.


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President Trump is moving toward his 2024 candidacy as per all indications from his enlightening address to the NC GOP on June 5, 2021. Considering this political vector as a distinct possibility: What is your electoral pleasure as an integral cog in this Representative Republic?

No Vote: Mr. Trump will never be president again as we boldly march toward a Socialist society.

Yes Vote: Mr. Trump was the best president since Ronald Reagan, and we need a real leader, who is fully cognitive of that responsibility in these tumultuous times..
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The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services today announced it is expanding eligibility for food assistance benefits to help college students who are struggling to purchase food and stay in school during the pandemic.Some college students in North Carolina are now eligible to receive assistance through the Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) program under this temporary change of benefits approved by the federal government.The U.S. Department of Education recently announced this additional assistance for college students and institutions through the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) grants program. The additional assistance provides ongoing relief from the COVID-19 Emergency Relief Act of 2020 and will be in effect until 30 days after the COVID-19 public health emergency is lifted.said NCDHHS Chief Deputy Secretary for Opportunity and Well-Being Susan Gale Perry.To be eligible, students must have filed a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and have documentation of an estimated family contribution of $0 on their federal student aid determination or eligibility for work study. To ensure every eligible college student who has been worried about their next meal is aware of the change and to encourage them to apply for FNS benefits, the Department of Education has begun its own direct outreach through email to inform college students about the temporary changes to the work requirement exemptions for the FNS program.Eligible students who have applied for FNS benefits will receive an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, similar to a debit card, that can be used to purchase food at a grocery store, farmers markets or online through Amazon, Walmart, Aldi, BJ's Wholesale Club, Food Lion, Carli C's and Publix.College students and others can determine if they are eligible and apply for food assistance HERE or contact their local Department of Social Services
The Chinese Communist Party reportedly fined a Catholic for providing a church venue for "illegal" Mass.

According to the Christian Post (CP), a hefty sum was paid by a Catholic Chinese, Huang Ruixun, to CCP authorities more than a month ago when his private chapel was used by the Wenzhou Diocese Bishop Peter Shao Zhumin who is only officially recognized by Vatican.

The 56-year-old Ruixun's chapel in Shao was used on March 16 by 20 Catholics. The CCP then sentenced Ruixun for hosting the bishop and for "providing him with lunch, a rest room, etc." He was then charged for "illegal religious activities" and sentenced with 200,000 Yuan or $30,000 as fine.

By definition, "unofficial bishops" pertain to those who are officially recognized by the Pope but not by the CCP and belong to the "underground Catholic church in China."

Since Zhumin was not recognized by the CCP, Ruixun was accused of violating the "principle of independence, autonomy, and self-administration of the Church in China" imposed by the CCP for those who were "ordained by a foreign institution," pertaining to the Vatican.

The Christian Post cited the Roman Catholic Pontifical Institute For Foreign Missions press agency in stating the official complaint against Ruixun indicate him as "facilitating illegal religious activities" which are against CCP regulations, particularly that which requires the use of places registered by the government for all religious activities.

AsiaNews added that the CCP's actions against Ruixun is but one of the recent examples on the Sino-Vatican agreement being "betrayed."

Unofficial bishops in China have experienced an increase in preventions in the performance of their ministry. The said bishops are placed either in house arrest, such as Bishop Jia Zhiguo, or detained in isolated locations. Some bishops are also fined and prevented from gathering with other bishops or members of the clergy. While some are "cut off from water, electricity, and gas," such as Bishop Guo Xijin.

As per AsiaNews, 10% of those in Zhejiang are Christians and have resorted to build private chapels in their property for their use, which is similar to that of Ruixun. AsiaNews added that the CCP regulation to use registered government locations for religious activities was practically new as it was only imposed in February 2018.

AsiaNews pointed out that Chinese Christians are now confused with the government since the chapel was in private property and "has all the regular permits to be used as a private chapel" but Ruixun was fined since CCP said "it was illegal." On top of this, it has been accustomed since the pandemic began that the chapels were used for praying in groups, leaving now the question if doing so is still allowed.

The CCP, as per AsiaNews, have now announced that the new "Administrative measures for religious personnel" will be enforced beginning May 1. This measure is said to require every religious figure in Catholic and non-Catholic faiths to respond to Article 3 of the CCP regulation.

Article 3 basically demands churches to teach communist propaganda to congregants. As per AsiaNews, it demands people to "Love the motherland, support the leadership of the Communist Party of China, support the socialist system, abide by the Constitution, laws, regulations and rules, practice the core values of socialism, adhere to the principle of independence and autonomous management of religion, and adhere to China's religious policy, maintaining unity national unity, ethnic unity, religious harmony and social stability."
A suspect was arrested in Ohio last week in connection with the 1995 murder and sexual assault of a Beaumont ISD teacher, Beaumont police confirmed to The Enterprise on Monday.

The suspect was arrested in Ohio, a spokesperson confirmed, but no other details were immediately available.

According to jail records, a suspect who lived in Jefferson County at the time of the murder is currently being held for the state of Texas on the charge of murder. BPD did not confirm the identity of the suspect.

The break in the case comes after years of dead ends in the cold case that rattled the Beaumont community over two decades ago.

The Beaumont Police Department is leading the investigation with assistance from the Texas Rangers and other agencies.

Mary Catherine Edwards, 31, was a well-loved teacher who lived alone in a Beaumont townhouse.

According to Enterprise file coverage, she was last seen on the evening of Friday, Jan. 13, 1995.

The next day, when she didnt respond to phone calls, her parents went to her house on Park Meadow Street to check on her.

When they arrived, they found Edwards drowned in her bathroom, a Department of Public Safety Release said. She had been sexually assaulted and killed.

According to a 2006 Enterprise article, law enforcement officials spent $10,000 for DNA testing of evidence from the case at a Maryland lab, but the efforts didnt lead to any suspects at the time.

The break in the case comes a year after the Department of Public Safety increased the reward for information in the case from $3,000 to $6,000 as part of The Texas Rangers Cold Case program.

The Texas Rangers Cold Case website provides information on more than 125 cases in an effort to garner public interest in unsolved or cold cases, according to the website.

Texas Crime Stoppers offers rewards funded by the Governors Criminal Justice Division and administered by DPS of up to $3,000 for information that leads to the arrest of those responsible for any of the Rangers cold cases listed on the website.

A probable cause affidavit released Tuesday gave more information on how police identified a suspect. Read more here.

isaac.windes@hearstnp.com

twitter.com/isaacdwindes
LC-M CISD

Students are in class and no injuries have been reported after a Little Cypress-Mauriceville CISD bus slid off Glenda Road into a ditch Monday morning.

The bus 14 was carrying 15 junior high and high school students.
Daniel's Law passage  On Thursday, the Texas Senate followed the lead of the House and passed Daniels Law. The legislation prohibits organ transplant recipient discrimination on the basis of certain disabilities. Midlander Kathleen Kirwan Haynie has been an advocate for those with special needs to be able to receive life-saving organ transplants. On Thursday, Haynie reported, Next stop: Governors desk to sign into law.

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Needed rain  An area in need of a soaking rain got it as the NWS reported nearly an inch  0.92 of an inch -- fell at Midland International Airport from late Tuesday night through mid-day Thursday. That total may not sound like a lot, but it is more than had previously fallen this calendar year. In fact, The NWS reported 3.35 inches of precipitation fell between April 2020 and March 2021. In other words, the rain that fell in less than 48 hours this week was more than one-quarter of the rain that fell during the previous 12 months.

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$65 oil  The price of West Texas Intermediate reached $65  settling at $65.01 -- on Thursday. Bloomberg reports the six-week high comes as signs of strengthening demand from the U.S. to China stoked optimism that key markets are turning a corner in their recovery from the pandemic. The price is the highest since mid March.

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$23.115 million for MISD -- Midland ISD reported Thursday that the Texas Education Agency is showing an initial allocation of $23.115 million in emergency relief funds for the district as part of the two-third allocation announced by state leaders this week. That leaves $11.557 million in Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund III. These one-time funds are intended to support a comprehensive learning recovery effort in Texas over the next three years.

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Members of the Philippine Coast Guard participate in exercises near Pag-asa Island in the South China Sea, in this undated photo released on April 25, 2021.

The Philippines on Monday accused Chinese ships of harassing its coast guard in the South China Sea, with Manila calling it a blatant infringement of sovereignty and the foreign secretary using profanity to demand that Beijing withdraw vessels from his countrys exclusive economic zone.

Between Jan. 1 and March 18, Philippine maritime patrols had spotted hundreds of Chinese vessels in parts of the South China Sea that Manila claims as territory, including Pag-asa, Subi and Loaita islands, Lankiam Cay, Second Thomas Shoal, Jackson Atoll and Scarborough Shoal, the Department of Foreign Affairs said in a statement.

The DFA said it protested the shadowing, blocking, dangerous maneuver, and radio challenges by the Chinese Coast Guard of Philippine Coast Guard vessels conducting legitimate maritime patrols and training in the vicinity of Bajo de Masinloc on 24 to 25 April 2021.

Bajo de Masinloc is Manilas name for Scarborough Shoal, which lies 118 nautical miles west of the Philippine island of Luzon and is within the nations 200 nautical-mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

The DFA said it also protested the incessant, illegal, prolonged, and increasing presence of Chinese fishing vessels and maritime militia vessels in Philippine maritime zones.

Manila also rejected an earlier statement by Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin about Beijings claims to the maritime region.

China enjoys sovereignty over the Nansha islands including Zhongye [Pag-asa] Island and Zhongsha islands including Huangyan Island [Scarborough Shoal] and their adjacent waters and exercises jurisdiction in relevant waters. We urge the relevant side to respect Chinas sovereignty and rights and interests, and stop actions complicating the situation and escalating disputes, Wang had said on April 26.

On Monday, the DFA said the Philippines had sovereignty and jurisdiction over Scarborough Shoal and a portion of the Spratlys, adding that the Coast Guards maritime patrols and exercises were a legitimate and routine act  in its territory and territorial waters.

China has no law enforcement rights in these areas. The presence of Chinese Coast Guard vessels in the Philippines territorial waters of Pag-asa islands and Bajo de Masinloc and exclusive economic zone raises serious concern. The unauthorized and lingering presence of these vessels is a blatant infringement of Philippine sovereignty.

The DFAs statement was the latest in a growing list of formal protests over the presence of Chinese ships in Philippine waters.

Manila has been lodging daily protests with Beijing since March when it called out the presence of about 200 ships suspected to be manned by Beijings maritime militia at Whitsun Reef within the Philippine EEZ.

The Chinese Embassy in Manila did not immediately respond on Monday to a BenarNews request for comment.

Locsin criticism

Foreign Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr., meanwhile, ripped into Chinas actions in a profanity-laden statement on his personal Twitter account.

China, my friend, how politely can I put it? Let me see O  Get the [expletive] out. What are you doing to our friendship? Locsin tweeted Monday.

Later, Manilas top diplomat referred to President Rodrigo Dutertes September 2020 speech before the United Nations where he invoked a 2016 arbitral award, which declared the Philippines claim to an EEZ in the South China Sea valid over Chinas sweeping claim.

Since taking power in 2016, Duterte has fostered friendlier ties between the Philippines and China and has refrained from discussing the ruling.

In a televised speech last week, Duterte said China was a good friend and that he wanted no trouble or war. But, he also said, he would not order patrols to stop in the South China Sea despite Beijings demands.

Defend what is rightfully ours

Responding to claims of dissonance between the president and his defense and foreign secretaries, defense chief Delfin Lorenzana said his pronouncements echo the stand of Duterte, adding that Manilas patrols in the South China Sea would continue.

President Dutertes orders to us have been very firm and straightforward: Defend what is rightfully ours without going to war and maintain the peace in the seas, Lorenzana said.

While we acknowledge that Chinas military capability is more advanced than ours, this does not deter us from defending our national interest, and our dignity as a people, with all that we have, Lorenzana said.

Manila has been ramping up its non-military presence in waters that it claims in the South China Sea through its coast guard, fisheries bureau and maritime police. Last week, these agencies carried out a series of drills in the South China Sea including around Scarborough Shoal.

Meanwhile, the China Coast Guard, a unit linked to the Chinese military, has maintained a constant presence at Scarborough Shoal since 2012, following a standoff with the Philippine Navy.

In that time, Chinas Coast Guard ships have barred Filipino fishermen from dropping anchor inside the lagoon which offers safe harbor during bad weather. Filipino fishermen who used to fish at Scarborough Shoal have reported a roughly 80 percent decline in their catch since the Chinese takeover.

In addition, Chinas recent law authorizing its Coast Guard to fire at perceived intruders in the South China Sea has caused concern among Filipinos, especially fishermen.

On Friday, the Filipino fishermens advocacy group Pamalakaya petitioned the U.N. to nullify this law, investigate Chinas actions in the South China Sea and to demilitarize the strategic and resource-rich waters.

Besides China and the Philippines, other claimants to portions of the South China Sea are Brunei, Malaysia, Taiwan and Vietnam. Although Indonesia does not consider itself a party to the dispute, China has claims that overlap with Indonesias EEZ in the South China Sea.
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A Christian photographer is said to be in a legal battle against a legislation that forces him to cover events contrary to his beliefs.

The Christian Post reported that Robert Updegrove has filed an appeal at the district court against Virginia for the Virginia Values Act that was implemented on July 2020 in part of anti-discrimination rules that include gender identity and sexual orientation. Updegrove was previously denied by the district court of his complaint on the law that forces him to service weddings of the same sex, which is against his religious beliefs.

The Virginia Values Act has been in conflict with business owners' religious liberty in so far as their belief in traditional marriage. The appeal, the Christian Post highlighted, was filed by the Alliance Defending Freedom in behalf of Updegrove on Wednesday.

Updegrove, who runs Bob Updegrove Photography, sought to conduct his photography business as he has accustomed to for wedding ceremonies that celebrate "the union of one man and one woman" and engagement sessions. He also aspires to continue in evaluating "every photography request he receives to determine whether he can fulfill that request consistent with his artistic judgment and religious beliefs."

According to the appeal that is filed against Virginia Attorney General Mark Herring and Virginia Division of Human Rights and Fair Housing Director R. Thomas Payne II, Updegrove's appeal was filed in the Fourth Circuit of the United States Court of Appeals in line with the denial of his motion for preliminary injunction last March 30, 2021.

"The law violates foundational rights set forth in the U.S. Constitution, including the First Amendment's Free Speech and Free Exercise clauses," the ADF said in its website.

ADF added that it will "argue" with the district court since they "should not have dismissed the suit" because of the "real violations" against Updegrove's basic rights set in the US Constitution that include the "First Amendment's Free Speech and Free Exercise clauses."

"Artists should be free to choose the messages they promote. But because of the state's interpretation of its law, photographers like Bob face an impossible choice: violate the law and risk bankruptcy, promote views against their faith, or close down," ADF Center for Conscience Initiatives Director Jonathan Scruggs

"Bob and other artists deserve to have clarity on how this law affects their business. Free speech is too important, and the First Amendment protects everyone, no matter what side of an issue a person lands on," Scruggs pointed out.

ADF revealed that the Virginia Values Act actually forbids Updegrove to explain in his own website "the religious reasons" for choosing to service "wedding ceremonies between one man and one woman". A fine of up to $50,000 is imposed on anyone who violates the state law on top of a $100,000 fine for every additional violation and court orders that will force photographers like Updegrove to act against their conscience if they want to "stay in business."

Updegrove's complaint was dismissed by the district court because "the photographer lacked standing" since the Virginia Values act "has never been enforced against" him "or any other person."

U.S. District Court Judge Claude M. Hilton, as cited by the Christian Post, said there was "no complaint" filed ever since the "statute became effective". He stressed that "no case or controversy exists" since "no person, government or otherwise, has ever sought to enforce" the statute.
As President Biden marked his 100th day in office last week, New York Sen. Chuck Schumer, also marked his 100th day as Senate Majority Leader. In that role, hestasked with navigating the presidents agenda through an evenly divided chamber.

Unlike the Democratic-led House of Representatives, which can pass bills by a simple majority vote, Senate rules require 60 votes to pass major legislation. That means Democrats must stick together and win over at least 10 Republicans.

Still, Senate Democrats have accomplished a lot under his leadership, Schumer said in an interview with BET.com.

When we first got in, people said you cant get it all done. Well, we did an impeachment trial of the president, Schumer said. We didnt convict him as I hoped we would. But it was a trial that showed the perfidy of Trump and his followers.

Schumer also pointed to several other wins: confirming Bidens diverse cabinet nominees and passing an historic $1.9 trillion stimulus package. It included provisions that targeted funding for minority-owned businesses and child tax credits to lift kids out of poverty.

However, theres been a logjam of key measures that could impact the lives of African Americans.

A House Democratic majority has approved the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act in March, but it has stalled in the Senate where Republicans oppose a ban on qualified immunity, which protects officers from civil lawsuits.

Voting rights also weighs in the balance. At the state level, Republican lawmakers are rewriting voting laws that would limit Black voter turnout. Theres an urgency for a federal response.

In March, the House passed a sweeping measure, dubbed the For the People Act, that would expand voting rights, as well as overhaul redistricting and campaign finance laws. It threatens to eliminate the tactics Republicans use to stay in power.

Theres also a second voting rights bill thats under consideration: the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Act. Several Congressional Black Caucus members have come out in support of that legislation because of its limited scope. The idea is that it has a better chance of getting some Senate Republican support.

BET.com spoke with Sen. Schumer in a brief phone interview about the legislative obstacles these issues present.

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BET.com: Whats your strategy to get the 10 GOP votes needed to pass the George Floyd Reform in Policing Act?

Sen. Chuck Schumer: [Sen.] Cory Booker is our point person on this. He is negotiating with the Republicans to try to get a good strong bill. But we will not negotiate it until its next to nothing.

We need a strong bill because we know that there is systemic racism in law enforcement. Weve all seen it with our eyes now that everyone has cameras on their cellphones. People in the Black community knew this forever. Now I think the rest of America has woken up to the fact.

So, I think we have a decent chance of getting a strong bill, and thats what Senator Booker is working on.

Im strongly for the Justice in Policing Act, including getting rid of the immunity and changing the intent standard [that prosecutors must currently prove to convict officers of misconduct], two of the strongest provisions.

BET.com: Are Senate Democrats unifying around the For the People Act or the John Lewis Voting Rights Act?

Sen. Schumer: We like both bills. I would like to pass both. But the most immediate one is S.1 (For the People Act).

The John Lewis Voting Rights Act is prospective; it will deal with the future taking away of voting rights.

However, S.1 is retroactive, so it would apply to the racist, bigoted actions that some of these Republican legislators are taking. It would allow the Justice Department to go in and undo them in time for the next election.



RELATED: Stacey Abrams Says Voting Reform Bill Should Be Exempt From Filibuster

BET.com: What if you cant push through either bill?

Sen. Schumer: Fortunately, now we do have a Justice Department that cares about civil rights and voting rights. And they will have some pretty strong tools. But it would be best if we pass S.1 that gives them even more tools to do what they need to do.

BET.com: Do you have the votes to pass the Minority Business Resiliency Act?

Sen. Schumer: We want to tie in the Build Back Better (infrastructure plan) bill that President Biden put together and make sure there is a focus on minority business in every aspect. If we pass the $2 trillion infrastructure bill, so much has to be built, we can set aside [some of that work] for minority businesses.



Thats going to be a boost to minority businesses, more than weve ever seen before. So, were going to try to incorporate every strong action we can to help minority businesses.

Its estimated that the bill would create 5 million to 10 million new jobs. We want 40% for people of color, minimum wage workers, the formerly incarcerated. So that we could share the wealth, if you will.

RELATED: Biden Challenges Congress To Pass George Floyd Police Reform Act By End of May
On Friday (May 30), a Columbus judge ruled that the citys police can no longer use force against nonviolent protesters.

In an opinion rendered and obtained by NBC4i, Chief Judge Algenon L. Marbley of the Southern District of Ohio called officers' use of violence, tear gas and pepper spray as the sad tale of officers, clothed with the awesome power of the state, run amok.

The use of flash-bang grenades, rubber bullets, body slams or of police forcing and cordoning protesters into a confined area, often called kettling, are all now prohibited against nonviolent protesters by Marbley. Additionally, officers must ensure that police vehicle cameras and body cameras are in good working order during interactions with protesters.

26 plaintiffs sued the City of Columbus after taking part in demonstrations over the summer in reaction to the police killings of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor, among others. They alleged officers responded to nonviolent protesters with excessive force through various methods.

RELATED: MaKhia Bryant: What We Know So Far About The Police Shooting Death of the Teen Girl

We are pleased that the Court recognized the truth of the overwhelming testimony, shocking videos, and heart-wrenching pictures and issued an injunction which protects the people from the police, said Sean Walton, the attorney representing the plaintiffs, according to The Washington Post.

The ruling comes just weeks after the death of foster child MaKhia Bryant, who was shot and killed by a Columbus police officer. The 16-year-olds funeral took place at the First Church of God in Southeast Columbus.

The order also comes just days after Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther and City Attorney Zach Klein recently requested an investigation from the Department of Justice into the Columbus Division of Police.

"This is not about one particular officer, policy, or incident; rather, this is about reforming the entire institution of policing in Columbus, Ginther and Klein said in a letter on Wednesday, according to the Associated Press. Simply put: We need to change the culture of the Columbus Division of Police.
North Carolina A&T State University, the largest HBCU in the country, is celebrating a record-breaking year of fundraising. The Greensboro, N.C., school raised $88 million since last year bringing the total to $181.4 million to complete its eight-year campaign, according to an announcement from administrators.

The amount now lists A&Ts assets at $153 million, including its endowment, making it the most of any public HBCU, NPR reported.

There has not been a year like that ever in our history," says Todd Simmons, N.C. A&T's Associate Vice Chancellor for University Relations told the news organization. "Nor has there been a year like that in the history of nearly any other public HBCU in America."

Thurgood Marshall College Fund President Harry L. Williams, called it a record-breaking year. "We have never, ever seen anything like this for HBCUs," he said.

RELATED: Four HBCUs Receive $20 Million Donations

More than 21,300 donors took a hard look at North Carolina A&T and invested in its promise and potential. Our students, faculty, and academic programs earned those investments, and the total of that generosity is a reflection of the quality of this community of scholars, said Chancellor Harold L. Martin Sr. on the schools website. Were grateful for what this says about our university now and excited about what it means for our future.

Along with private donors and alumni, MacKenzie Scott, philanthropist, and ex-wife of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, donated $45 million to North Carolina A&T.

In comparison to other institutions, HBCUs have smaller endowments at their disposal. Some HBCUs have used their recent gifts to invest in their endowments as a way to grow funds for generations to come.

"Our institutions just do not have those robust endowments that we can lean on when we go through difficult times just like we just went through," Williams continued. "So therefore by investing in the endowment ... that is going to help with the sustainability of our institutions."
A former Fellowship Church Manager was reported to have stolen almost a total of $1.4M over a decade as shown by documents.

The Christian Post reported that Lara Lynn Ford stole from Pastor Ed Young's Texas-based Fellowship Church without being caught for more than ten years. Records from the court and from the April 2019 Grapevine Police Department showed that Ford stole out of a "bad spending habit" and to "help people." When asked as to why she stole the money, she was quoted to reply with "umm, stupid."

"Ford then admitted she didn't have the money in an account, and she would buy things she doesn't need and would help people," Grapevine Police Department Officer T. Karfs said in the 2019 report.

Ford was sentenced to imprisonment for 10 years on April 16 after pleading guilty "to theft of property greater than "$300,000 in value," the Christian Post added.

In addition, Forth Worth Star-Telegram reported that the sentence was actually decreased from a 99-year imprisonment with a $10,000 file after pleading guilty. The 51-year-old Ford intends to apply for shock probation to suspend her prison sentence considering she had no previous felony convictions.

The Star-Telegram pointed out that Ford would only be granted that request by a judge after six months of receiving her sentence and dependent "on her behavior and progress report while in prison." Community supervision would be in place should the request for shock probation be granted.

The Star-Telegram revealed that Ford started stealing from church funds on December 22, 2008 based on Fellowship CFO Dennis Brewer's accounts documented in the search warrant.

Brewer "discovered additions to Ford's monthly housing allowance" in April 2019 that prompted him to confront Ford about it. Ford then confessed that she did increase the housing allowance given her along with taking additional money through auto-draft payments setup to her checking accounts.

It was only then, the Star-Telegram added, that the Fellowship conducted an audit of their bank accounts and discovered that a minimum of $1,068,825.23 have already been received by Ford's checking accounts. Ford's church-issued laptop was then seized by the Grapevine police later that year to see other evidence of her thefts through "transactions, receipts, and other accounts." Ford was able to pay half of the money through insurance based on Tarrant County court records.

The Christian Post added that Ford initially took "$50-$200 each time" and then increased it "when she gained access to the church's bank accounts as part of her job in the finance department." When she was able to send money manually to church employees whenever the direct deposits did not go through, Ford used the same process of "sending herself money." She then made online payments to her account using the laptop of $1,500 to $1,700 weekly or monthly "for seven to eight years."

Ford was able to steal a total of $1,377,144.76 based on further investigations on her, the Christian Post said. Of which, $250,000 was paid by the Hartford Insurance.

The Christian Post revealed that Ford has been suspected of committing fraud as early as 2015 but it was mostly from hearsay. Christy Quick, a former co-employee who was Ford's staff, provided information about the allegations against her to a private investigator, which in turn contacted Officer Karfs.

Quick said she did not personally witness any act of "manipulating accounts and transferring money to" Ford. However, "she heard it via third party" -someone who happens to be "close to Ford" and "who Ford allegedly confessed to."
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Idahos state legislature just approved a bill that, if signed into law, could mean the killing of 90% of the states wolves in some of the most sickening ways possible.

Senate Bill 1211 would let individuals kill an unlimited number of wolves, trap them on private property year round, and run them down with all-terrain vehicles and snowmobiles. It could result in the massacre of more than 1,300 wolves, including pups.

If this horrific bill passes, Idaho could nearly wipe out its wolf population, said Center for Biological Diversity lawyer Andrea Zaccardi. Unless we can stop Gov. Little from signing this into law, decades of progress toward wolf recovery will be lost.

Help us save wolves and other species by giving to our Saving Life on Earth Fund. If you do it now, your gift will be matched.
First consignment of 150,000 doses of the Sputnik V vaccine has landed in Hyderabad

Hydrabad based Dr Reddys Laboratories has announced that the first consignment of 150,000 doses of the Sputnik V vaccine has landed in Hyderabad from Russia.

The roll-out of the consignment will be subject to the necessary clearances, which will be processed over the next few days.

This initial quantity will be used across different channels as a pilot to line up our supply chain for the larger vaccination program rollout.

Subsequent consignments will arrive in the next few weeks.

"This is a reaffirmation of Dr Reddys commitment towards combating COVID-19 in India through our portfolio of therapeutics and vaccines", said Deepak Sapra, CEO  API and Services, Dr Reddys Laboratories.
Former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said, as per report, that "there is no evidence" President Joe Biden's Administration will confront China for declaring "war on the American worker".

Pompeo gave the warning on Friday's "Mornings With Maria" in Fox Business Network after Biden recently referred to China as a "competitor," Breitbart reported. Breitbart explained that Biden emphasized America's "'enormous' economic power to confront China." However, Pompeo retorted the matter during his interview with Fox Business.

"Mornings With Maria" host Dagen McDowell asked Pompeo on "how weak" was America on "China's threat" based on what Biden said. Breitbart quoted Pompeo in saying that what Biden said was nothing but "an empty promise."

"Dagen, if you listen to his rhetoric, we would be fine, but you and I both know this is likely to be an empty promise. There's no evidence in the record that this administration is prepared to truly confront China," Pompeo said.

Pompeo then elaborated that the use of the "language like competitor" could pertain to America's "friends and allies around the world. He explained that the United States compete with allies like Belgium and the United Kingdom." The issue with the Chinese Communist Party is something different, he said.

"The Chinese Communist Party has declared war on the American worker. They did this years ago. And President Trump was the first leader to take this on, and our administration went full throttle to push back against this adversary," he pointed out.

Pompeo added what he had been repeatedly saying about China stealing jobs and intellectual property from the United States.

"They want to steal your our jobs. They've stolen intellectual property. They're inside the gates conducting espionage here in the United States, even in the senior-most elements of our research institutes," Pompeo added. "This is a conflict that the Chinese Communist Party brought on us. And we need to use the enormous American economic power to confront it on every front."

Previously, experts raised skeptism over Biden's promises to stand up against China, especially after he gave a speech last February on foreign policy where he said "America is back" and stressed that "diplomacy is back at the center of foreign policy." Experts said this showed "Biden's ambivalence on China's "growing global influence."

Pompeo reacted negatively to Biden's remark on "America is back," raising whether it meant "to letting China walk all over" America or "to dissing allies and friends like Israel and treating terrorists in Iran like friends by giving them $150 billion in pallets of cash."

Pompeo actually warned in February against the "mishandling of China" by the Biden Administration as it will result to grave effects in the world. Pompeo gave the warning also in a Fox Business News' "Mornings With Maria."

In addition, Pompeo insisted that China "must continue to be confronted" a week after Biden took office. This pertains to China's ruling regime and their "propaganda to cover up the early stages of the spread of the 2019 novel coronavirus pandemic."
Jacaranda FM's 942s are set to become Mzanzi's top youth talent

Jacaranda FMs youth band, the 942s , have signed a record deal with Coleske Artists and their first singlewas released this morning on their mentor, Martin Besters radio breakfast show. The 942s will be in legendary music company with the likes of Fokofpolisiekar, Die Heuwels Fantasties, and Corlea Botha who are also signed to Coleske Artists.I noticed a lot of passionate, young performers and singers over the past few years whilst hosting our previouscompetitions, and I knew that I could mentor some of the ridiculously good talent. I feel responsible for opening industry channels and leveraging established networks to cultivate new music. Once Covid-19 restrictions kicked-in,morphed intoso that we could continue the talent scout, comments Jacaranda FM presenter Martin Bester.The aim of the competition was to find the best young music talent in South Africa, to create a band, and help these young hopefuls navigate an industry that needs more successful youth representation.We have put a world-class group together and cant wait to see them represent South Africa on the world stage, adds Bester.After 10 weeks of on-air talent search, three talented young musicians were selected for the band. They are Ruan Nel (13) from Midrand on electric guitar, Angelo Roman (13) from Pretoria on bass guitar and Dominic McNabb (13) from Pretoria on drums.The vocalist for the group was selected after a final round where three contestants had to sing live on air. After 30,000 visits to the web page and more than 10 000 votes, it was the talented Lisa Taylor (15) from Krugersdorp who earned the seat behind the microphone.Martin Bester and Jacaranda FM will continue to support and mentor the 942s, keep up with their journey here Lisa attends Helpmekaar Kollege and is a typical 15-year-old girl who loves hockey. She attributes her raspy voice to the nodules she had in her throat as a child, before which she never considered music or singing.When asked what winning the vocal leg of the competition meant to her, she said Being part of a band is a dream come true for me, but being in a band where we are all similar in age means we dont have the pressure of impressing adult band members. Martin has already taught us how to think under pressure, and just knowing he is with us every step of the way is beyond anything I ever dreamed of.Lisas musical influences are; Sasha Sloan, Jeremy Zucker, and Ed SheeranDominic is no stranger to the limelight, with over 4000 Instagram followers and sponsorship by Yamaha, this quiet and polite 13-year-old from Pretoria dominates the drums in a way that makes him hard not to watch.Dominic is home-schooled and loves that he gets to spend more time with his family than other kids his age. He loves learning about computers and was two years old when he first started banging on pots and pans; a love for percussion he picked up from his dad who played at church. Once his dad recognised his talent, he gave Dominic drumming videos to watch  and the rest is history.Dominics musical influences are Eric Moore and Early B. He hopes to tour the world and share his music in the My Kid Rocks band.Ruan is a 13-year-old, home-schooled teen who started playing guitar when he was seven years old. He loves anime and is constantly asked about his accent  which he picked up from spending two weeks in Los Angeles once.Being in a band with people your age means we can talk about Netflix, share pop culture, and relate to each other. Being in this band is a dream come true and Im looking forward to learning from Martin and guitarist Werner Bosman, said Ruan Nel.Ruans musical influences are Eddie Van Halen, Randy Rhodes, and Bernth.Angelo is a 13-year-old teen from Pretoria. He goes to Hoer Skool Waterkloof and plays bass, synth bass, guitar, drums, and sings.Angelo brings a professional standard to the young band as he has played with the likes of Bobby van Jaarsveld and Joseph Clark in the Queen Experience last year.Angelo is inspired by musicians like; Bobby Lewis, MonoNeon, Thundercat and Freddie Mercury. He aspires to be a great YouTuber like Joovier or influence people like Janek Qwizdala influenced him.
Tobore Ovuorie honoured with DW Freedom of Speech Award 2021

Tobore Ovuorie, a Nigerian investigative journalist, has received a DW Freedom of Speech Award 2021. The award honours journalists' outstanding commitment to human rights and particularly, freedom of expression in the media.



Upon receiving an award, this is what Ovuorie had to say ''I am so honored that my work has been recognised in this way by DW. It means so much to me that the work I am so committed to gives a voice to women without a voice and speaks to others as well. I hope that this recognition of my work can serve as an inspiration for girls and women to be more, especially to follow the path of research in journalism.''
This job expired on 14 May 2021.
This job expired on 20 May 2021.
The CCP is demonstrating even more power over educational institutions in China, forcing them to teach communist ideology to young minds.

In another attempt to gain full control over China, the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is demonstrating a tighter grip on schools and universities across the country, ordering educational institutions to teach communist propaganda and ideology to its students. These educational institutions are now forced to enable their in-house CCP committee to "[exercise] comprehensive leadership" over school teachings, scientific research, and administration as per new measures released on April 22.

According to Radio Free Asia, the new measures order CCP party branches to be set up within schools and guide its teachers, researchers, undergraduate students, and others within the institution. Members of the party branches must be chosen based on whether they have a "strong party spirit."

The new measure, called the "Regulations on the Work of CCP Grassroots Organizations in Colleges and Universities," also orders the party committee to "carry out propaganda work and implement the central party line" from Beijing.

More importantly, the CCP party branches within schools and universities are responsible for "resolutely preventing and resisting all kinds of illegal missionary and infiltration activities," referring to the rise of religious organizations and political dissent.

The guidelines require that the members of the CCP party committees in Chinese schools must be equal to at least 1% of the number of faculty and students of the school. It also requires one political ideology teacher per 350 students.

Chen Kuide, who is the executive chairman of the Princeton China Institute in the U.S., commented that the CCP under Xi Jinping is looking to place a "huge amount of further effort" into expanding ideological education in Chinese schools. He told RFA, "Internationally, they are preparing for the next phase of competition [on the world stage]."

Kuide is not wrong, as Xi himself is already making the rounds in Chinese schools. Chinese state-run media outlet CGTN reported that the Chinese president visited the Tsinghua University, a major research university in Beijing for an inspection tour.

The CCP leader believes that the country "needs higher education, scientific knowledge and excellent talent more than ever" in their commitment to become an "innovation powerhouse." To do this, they must first undergo "national rejuvenation," which is why they are keen on "[supporting] the development of high-quality research universities and [cultivating] more first-rate talent in science and technology."

The CCP believes that these schools and universities have a vital role in their goals of becoming an even stronger global superpower. At the same time, the CCP appears to be demonstrating the power they have over students with their determination to teach communist propaganda to young minds, to ensure they stay in line and comply with the communist rule.

Xi's move to further demonstrate the CCP's control over universities and educational institutions in China comes ahead of the 100th anniversary of the founding of the CCP, a big event for supporters of the communist rule which is set to launch major programs and changes under Xi's leadership.
The New York Times, the Washington Post, and NBC News have issued retractions on stories they published about the investigation surrounding Rudy Giuliani, who these news outlets claimed that the FBI warned about being targeted by a Russian influence operation. The false report told about how Giuliani was given a formal warning in the form of a "defensive briefing" from the FBI about "Russian disinformation" in 2019.

According to Breitbart, NBC News reported how a "source familiar with the matter" told of how Giuliani was provided with a "defensive briefing" by the FBI in which agents "warned him he was being targeted by a Russian intelligence influence operation" while he was building "opposition research on the Biden family."

The news organization, as well as the New York Times and the Washington Post reported on this matter after the FBI raided the former New York City mayor's Manhattan residence and confiscated electronic devices.

According to Insider, the current federal investigation into Giuliani seeks to determine whether he was involved with Ukrainian individuals when he lobbied for the Trump administration for the firing of Marie Yovanovitch, the U.S. ambassador to Ukraine.

"I've never represented a Ukrainian national or official before the United States government," Giuliani told FOX News. "The search warrant is on one single failure to file for representing a Ukrainian national or official that I never represented."

Giuliani is now demanding the "fake news media" disclose the source of the misinformation that was published about him. He took to Twitter to ask, "Where did the original false information come from?"

The former Trump lawyer also criticized the Washington Post for its "defamatory story," claiming that the publication, as well as the New York Times, "must reveal their sources who lied and targeted an American Citizen" and called out CNN and MSNBC for failing to make the corrections immediately.

Giuliani accused the FBI for "spying" on his iCloud account over the last two years right until the FBI raided his Manhattan apartment. The former Trump lawyer claims that the FBI "took documents that are privileged, and then they unilaterally decided what they could read and not read," the Irish Sun reported.

Furthermore, the FBI also searched the home of Giuliani's close confidant, lawyer Victoria Toensing. He believes that his rights as an American citizen and his attorney-client privileges have been violated.

Following the FBI raid and "fake news media" attack against Giuliani, attorney Alan Dershowitz spoke out on the former Trump lawyer's treatment under the Biden administration, saying that it was "inappropriate" for the FBI to have raided his home like they did, especially when he is a lawyer who may have had privileged information of his clients stored in his home.

"You don't use search warrants when people have privileged information on their cell phones and in their computers. You use a subpoena," Dershowitz told the New York Post. "The difference between a subpoena and a search warrant is like night and day...It's just not constitutional."
Despite the Biden administration's promises to "follow the science" when it comes to dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic, recent developments have shown otherwise. Newly released documents show a rather intimate relationship between the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), a powerful teachers union that was found to have influenced recent policies on school reopening.

Documents obtained by the conservative watchdog group Americans for Public Trust and furnished to the New York Post revealed just how the AFT lobbied the CDC and had some of their recommendations adopted into the policies on school reopening.

These documents showed conversations and discussions between leaders of both organizations, including Dr. Rochelle Walensky and the AFT union's officials, as well as the White House's Carole Johnson, coronavirus testing coordinator, and Will McIntee, associate director of public engagement.

The documents revealed the activities between the CDC and AFT right before the policies on school reopening were announced on February 12. In the documents, AFT senior director for health issues Kelly Trautner described the union as CDC's "thought partner" and thanked them for a "rich discussion about forthcoming CDC guidance" and for the health authorities' "openness to the suggestions made by our president, Randi Weingarten, and the AFT."

The documents reveal how Trautner and her team "reviewed" the "draft guidance document," which they provided "initial feedback" to "strengthen the document." She claimed that the teachers' "experiences on the ground can inform and enrich thinking around what is practicable and prudent in future guidance documents."

The AFTs lobbying proved to be successful, as the policies on school reopening not only reflected their suggestions, it even included some of their revisions verbatim.

AFT president Randi Weingarten told Politico in February after the new policies on school reopening were released, "The science has been evolving. It's not a political calculation, it's based on trying to make the science work."

CDC backed up the AFT at the time, which in hindsight hinted at a close relationship between the two. Former acting CDC director Rich Besser said, "You can take science and reach a number of different policy conclusions and policy directions that are different, but are still true to the science."

According to Breitbart, the Biden administration committed to the "follow the science" ideology, with the President claiming that CDC has "provided the best available scientific evidence on how to reopen schools safely." However, the AFT did not appear to present any scientific facts or studies to support their lobbying, something that concerns Dr. Monica Gandhi, a professor of medicine at the University of California, San Francisco.

Dr. Ghandi, who called the CDC and AFT's exchange "very, very troubling," commented that the "very intimate back and forth" between the CDC and AFT is "strange" and that it is highly questionable as to why a "political group gets to help formulate scientific guidance for our major public health organization," specifically for policies on school reopening.

Dr. Gandhi warned, "This is not how science-based guidelines should work or be put together."
A so-called independent fact-checker website FactCheck.org is exposed to be funded by the same $1.9 billion vaccine lobby group that it is supposed to check. The site is a Facebook partner whose articles are used to censor critical voices on the social media platform. It is headed by the former CDC director, which is again a conflit of interest.

A U.S. congressman Thomas Massie has pointed out a fact that a COVID-19 vaccination fact-checking project conducted by Facebook-partnered website is actually funded by a group that holds $1.9 billion in Johnson & Johnson stock. The group is headed by the former CDC director.

U.S. Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky tweeted Saturday, NOTHING TO SEE HERE  Former director of CDC is now CEO of the foundation that funds FACTCHECK.orgs vaccine fact checking program. Roughly 15% of said foundations assets are J&J stock.

Bless your heart if you think factcheck.org is an unbiased source of vaccine information, he continued.

NOTHING TO SEE HERE



Former director of CDC is now CEO of the foundation that funds FACTCHECK. orgs vaccine fact checking program. Roughly 15% of said foundations assets are J&J stock.



Bless your heart if you think factcheck .org is an unbiased source of vaccine information pic.twitter.com/Ijq3sojHmV  Thomas Massie (@RepThomasMassie) April 24, 2021

In a screenshot from Factcheck.org attached by Massie, it can be seen that the site explains that its SciCheck COVID-19/Vaccination Project is made possible by a grant from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, which it reveals is worth $53,501.

A so-called independent fact-checker website FactCheck.org is exposed to be funded by the same $1.9 billion vaccine lobby group that it is supposed to check. The site is a Facebook partner whose articles are used to censor critical voices on the social media platform. It is headed by the former CDC director, which is again a conflit of interest.

A U.S. congressman Thomas Massie has pointed out a fact that a COVID-19 vaccination fact-checking project conducted by Facebook-partnered website is actually funded by a group that holds $1.9 billion in Johnson & Johnson stock. The group is headed by the former CDC director.

U.S. Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky tweeted Saturday, NOTHING TO SEE HERE  Former director of CDC is now CEO of the foundation that funds FACTCHECK.orgs vaccine fact checking program. Roughly 15% of said foundations assets are J&J stock.

Bless your heart if you think factcheck.org is an unbiased source of vaccine information, he continued.

NOTHING TO SEE HERE



Former director of CDC is now CEO of the foundation that funds FACTCHECK. orgs vaccine fact checking program. Roughly 15% of said foundations assets are J&J stock.



Bless your heart if you think factcheck .org is an unbiased source of vaccine information pic.twitter.com/Ijq3sojHmV  Thomas Massie (@RepThomasMassie) April 24, 2021

In a screenshot from Factcheck.org attached by Massie, it can be seen that the site explains that its SciCheck COVID-19/Vaccination Project is made possible by a grant from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, which it reveals is worth $53,501.

SciCheck is a section of the FactCheck website that it says focuses exclusively on false and misleading scientific claims that are made by partisans to influence public policy.

Vaccines benefit those who have had COVID-19, contrary to viral posts, is the title of another recent SciCheck article.

Waiting for @factcheckdotorg to fact check this:



Funding for their vaccine fact check program comes from the RWJ foundation which holds over $1.8 billion worth of J&J stock and is run by a former director of the @CDCgov. https://t.co/Jyn7FMno5Y  Thomas Massie (@RepThomasMassie) April 26, 2021

The SciCheck arm of the FactCheck.org site is funded by the group named Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF).

The CEO and president of RWJF is Richard E. Besser. Besser has been leading RWJF since April 2017. Bessers bio on the RWJF website states  Besser is the former acting director for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Bessers bio further explains that he worked as director of the Coordinating Office for Terrorism Preparedness and Emergency Response at the CDC, then he joined ABC News in 2009, where he was the chief health and medical director.

He also served as acting director of the CDC from January to June 2009, during which time he led the CDCs response to the H1N1 influenza pandemic.

Readers of GreatGameIndia would remember how the WHO faked the H1N1 pandemic a decade ago on behalf of the vaccine lobby.

This is how #WHO faked a pandemic 10 years ago.



Read more  https://t.co/kqyfX2elTZ pic.twitter.com/VDYZ3MoDm5  GreatGameIndia (@GreatGameIndia) April 27, 2021

Interestingly, while Factcheck.org has directly denied Rep. Massies accusation of bias in the article, SciCheck and our Commitment to Transparency, it ignores the possibility of bias stemming from Bessers former role at the CDC.

FactCheck.org defended itself against Rep. Massies accusation of bias, saying, Contrary to Massies suggestion, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation  as is the case with all of our funders  has no control over our editorial content. Period. Full stop.

However, Massie nowhere says that RWJF has control over the editorial content of FactCheck.org. It is commonly acknowledged that outside parties can exercise influence upon an organization in a more indirect manner, such as through quid pro quo exchanges.

It is also noteworthy that FactCheck.org partnered with Facebook shortly after the 2016 allegedly in order to debunk hoaxes and malicious falsehoods posted on the social media site, according to the University of Pennsylvania Almanac.

For extensively exposing the Vaccine lobby, GreatGameIndia is being targeted and being accused of spreading misinformation for the flimsy reason that our tweets were shared widely after the controversy.

We need your support to carry on our independent and investigative research based journalism on the Deep State threats facing humanity. Your contribution however small helps us keep afloat. Kindly consider supporting GreatGameIndia.
Is there a connection between China, Bill Gates, YouTube, and DNA collection?

Recent reports reveal that a Chinese company with connections to the Gates Foundation is involved in COVID-19 testing and poses a potential threat to American privacy, particularly the medical and health data of those who have been tested for COVID-19.

In late January, CBS 60 Minutes reported:

60 Minutes has learned Chinese company BGI Group, the largest biotech firm in the world, offered to build COVID labs in at least six states, and U.S. intelligence officials issued warnings not to share health data with BGI. The largest biotech firm in the world wasted no time in offering to build and run COVID testing labs in Washington, contacting its governor right after the first major COVID outbreak in the U.S. occurred there. The Chinese company, the BGI Group, made the same offer to at least five other states, including New York and California, 60 Minutes has learned. This, along with other COVID testing offers by BGI, so worried Bill Evanina, then the countrys top counterintelligence officer, that he authorized a rare public warning.

Foreign powers can collect, store and exploit biometric information from COVID tests declared the notice. Evanina believes the Chinese are trying to collect Americans DNA to win a race to control the worlds biodata.

Evanina said a foreign entity could learn about a persons current or future medical conditions by studying their DNA and using this information to gain a monopoly over necessary drugs and treatments.

BGI Group declined to be interviewed by 60 Minutes and said the idea that Americans genomic data has been compromised by BGI is groundless.

Concerns around BGI also arose in late January when Reuters reported that more than 40 publicly available documents and research papers show BGIs links to the Peoples Liberation Army (PLA). Reuters said the research dealt with topics as varied as mass testing for respiratory pathogens to brain science.

The Gates Foundation and BGI

In March, journalist Natalie Winter of National Pulse uncovered documentation of a relationship between the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and BGI going back nearly a decade. Winter found a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Gates Foundation and BGI to form a collaboration on global health and agricultural development with the goal of achieving common objectives in health and agricultural development.

Specifically, this collaboration deals with developments in human, plant, and animal genomics, the study of DNA. In the press release for the MOU, the co-founder of BGI directly mentions the partnership as focused on genomics.

BGI looks forward to partnering with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation in this significant collaboration to apply genomics research to benefit global human health, said Dr. Huanming Yang, Chairman and Co-Founder of BGI.

Bill Gates also visited BGI headquarters in 2010, according to a report from the Financial Times. The Times stated that BGI is working towards a goal of building a huge library based on the DNA of many millions of people. BGIs goal is to use this information for new drugs, genetic research, and transforming public health policy.

It would appear the COVID-19 crisis has helped BGI and the Gates Foundation step into the role of influencing and transforming international health policy.

Winters report also notes that:

the Gates Foundation has also funded BGI projects relating to genome sequencing alongside Chinese Communist Party bodies such as the Ministry of Science and Technology and Academy of Agricultural Sciences. Similarly, Dr. Tadataka Yamada, the former president of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundations global health program, serves as the Chairman of BGIs Scientific Advisory Board.

Its clear that BGI Group and the Gates Foundation have a documented relationship over the last the decade. Its equally apparent that BGI Group has an extensive relationship with the Chinese military and government. It is these connections  the relationship that exists between the Chinese government, the BGI Group, and the Gates Foundation  which has sparked fears regarding the potential misuse for the COVID-19 tests manufactured by BGI.

BGI and the DNA Testing Industry

Since March 2020, BGI has sold millions of their COVID-19 test kits around the world, including the United States, Europe, and Australia. Reuters reports that shares of BGI Genomics Co. have doubled in the last year, giving BGI a market value of around $9 billion USD.

The company is based in Shenzhen, on the coast of Guangdong, China. They have made a name for themselves by selling genetic sequencing services around the world, which has helped them to create a large database of DNA. BGI is also well known for creating a cloned pig in 2010.

The company has regularly partnered with the Chinese Peoples Liberation Army. BGI and the PLAs Academy of Military Medical Science share a dozen patents for DNA tests. Coincidentally, Reuters notes that one patent from 2015 is for a low-cost test kit to detect respiratory pathogens, including SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) and coronaviruses.

Further, Chen Weijun, BGIs chief infectious disease expert, is listed as an inventor on the patent while also holding the title of one of the first scientists reported to have sequenced COVID-19 used samples from a military hospital in Wuhan.

BGI says the test kit developed with the Chinese military is not the same one sold to foreign countries.

The danger of COVID-19 tests being used as a method for gathering genomic data on the unsuspecting public is part of a larger conversation about the dangers posed by genealogy companies generally. Millions of people around the world have voluntarily submitted their DNA in exchange for information about their ancestry. The vast majority of the users of these companies, such as Ancestry and 23andMe, do not read the Terms of Service which outline how the genealogy firms can use the data.

One of the ways this data is used is to sell it to biotech companies who are interested in developing new drugs and therapies. Clearly, there are governments and militaries who also have an interest in collecting this data.

Evanina, the former counterintelligence officer, told 60 Minutes that Chinese companies are investing in U.S. biotech companies to gain access to the health data. He says most people do not realize that their genetic material represents your past and your future as well as your childrens future.

While there are clearly reasons to be concerned about the influence of the Chinese government and what they might do with your DNA, the reality is most governments with the resources will likely seek to mine DNA as well. This absolutely includes the United States government, military, and private companies.

One such company is the aforementioned 23andMe. In the January 60 Minutes report Anne Wojcicki, CEO of 23andMe, answered questions regarding her companys use of the data they are collecting. While Wojcicki says that her company has empowered individuals with this opportunity to come together, to crowd source research, she doesnt shy away from acknowledging that her company plans to use the information to develop drugs.

And I absolutely stand behind: we are going to develop drugs. So that everyone is actually benefiting from the human genome. So absolutely the data is valuable, Wojcicki told 60 Minutes.

While she says she agrees that Americans should be concerned about Chinas investments in genomic research, she believes the answer is for the United States to invest in genetic programs.

Wojcicki and 23andMe have faced their own criticisms regarding how they use the data and whether the public can truly expect records of their DNA to be safe. In February it was announced 23andMe would become a publicly traded company with help from billionaire Richard Branson. The Guardian noted that Bransons Virgin Acquisition Group said 23andMe and their vast proprietary dataset of DNA would allow Virgin to unlock revenue streams across digital health, therapeutics, and more.

Bransons interest in the study of DNA resembles the interests of wannabe billionaire Jeffrey Epstein. Epstein had an obsession with funding DNA programs. Bill Gates is also a part of this web because of his relationship with Epstein and partnership with the BGI Group. TLAVs Whitney Webb recently reported:

Epstein donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to the institution and Epstein was also used as a channel for making donations to MIT by billionaire Bill Gates. Gates has yet to explain why he would funnel his donations through Epstein as opposed to publicly donating via his well-known philanthropic foundation. Epsteins funding of the MIT Media Lab in particular led to the resignation of its former director Joi Ito in September 2019 following Epsteins arrest and subsequent suicide.'

The DNA-Biosecurity-Big Tech Web

What is not mentioned in the 60 Minutes piece  or anywhere else  is the fact that Anne Wojcicki, CEO of 23andMe, is the sister of Susan Wojcicki, CEO of YouTube. Additionally, Anne Wojcickis husband until 2015 was Sergey Brin, one of the founders of Google and president of Googles parent company, Alphabet Inc, until December 2019. Google also owns YouTube.

The reason these connections matter is because there are common threads between Google, the Gates Foundation, companies like 23andMe, and the Chinese government. While Anne Wojcicki and 23andMe work on DNA mining, her sister at YouTube censors reports on such topics that are often labeled misinformation. Understanding the incredible conflicts of interests here is of the utmost importance.

In a coming report I will dive deeper into this tangled web of Big Tech, Big Philanthropy, and the Chinese government.
In the summer of 2019, Austin, Texas, Mayor Steve Adler and Councilman Greg Casar led a unanimous council vote to change the citys ordinance concerning homeless camping.

Tents and tent cities sprung up citywide almost overnight. Citizen opposition to allowing the tent cities emerged almost as quickly.

Adler stubbornly refused to learn best practices from cities that are handling their homeless populations without simply allowing tent cities under every overpass and other places throughout the city. He traveled to cities that are handling the issue poorly, such as Portland, Seattle, and Los Angeles.

A bipartisan group, Save Austin Now, formed to put the ordinance up to a citywide vote. After city machinations to keep it off the ballot, the group succeeded and got it into the May 1 ballot.

Mayor Adler and Councilman Greg Casar strongly and publicly opposed that measure, Proposition B. They also added additional propositions including one that would fundamentally change the citys charter to a strong mayor model, handing Adler (and Casar, who many regard as leading Adler by the nose into radical, far-left policy) more power over the citys functions. That proposition was Prop F.

Adler and Casar also introduced and campaigned in favor of what they called democracy dollars, which would take city government funds and hand them to Austin residents to donate to political campaigns. That was Prop H.

They also proposed adding another city council district, Prop G.

Voters turned out heavily in early voting, and Mayor Adler could not contain his panic and his disdain for some of Austins residents as the early votes were counted.

The vote count should be representative of the community. So far, those early voting are not. Theyre much, much older and much, much more Republican. Vote tonight, tomorrow or Saturday. Vote No on Prop B! pic.twitter.com/UnxbWavdUt  Mayor Adler | wear a mask. (@MayorAdler) April 26, 2021

Even Ben & Jerrys ice cream meddled in Austins election, predictably siding with Casar, Adler, and all of the left-wing advocacy groups that dominate policy discussions in the city.

Well never police our way out of the homelessness crisis, and Prop B would take Austin backwards. Vote NO! https://t.co/UcYZiuR8S7  Ben & Jerry's (@benandjerrys) April 26, 2021

After the Election Day votes were counted, Adler and Casar took an old-fashioned shellacking.

Voters approved Prop B, ending homeless camping, 58% to 42%.

Voters rejected Prop F, the strong mayor proposal, 87% to 13%.

Prop G, which would have added another council district, fell 57% to 43%.

Voters also rejected Prop H, the democracy dollars proposal, 57% to 43%.

Texas political data expert Derek Ryan laid out the facts of the election on social media Saturday night: Heres what you need to know about the Austin camping ban proposition as it heads towards victory. Only 20% of early voters were Republican Primary voters. 55% were Democrat Primary voters. The remaining had no primary history but based on modeling data, 75% of that group skewed Democrat.
European travelers can expect to travel beginning in June with the help of the European Unions freshly approved COVID-19 immunity passports, however, a deeper look reveals the passports have been in the works since at least 2019.

On Thursday, the European Union announced plans to move forward to the next phase of rolling out their version of controversial immunity passports across Europe. Representatives of the EU member states debated the roll out of the certificate on Wednesday and announced the results on Thursday morning. The vote was 540 yes, 119 no, and 31 abstentions. The implementation of the EU Covid-19 certificate is expected to happen in early June.

The EU COVID-19 certificate will be a digital and/or paper certificate with a QR code which allows anyone who has been fully vaccinated, has proof of a negative COVID-19 test, or has recovered from COVID-19, to travel across the European Union. So although these are often referred to as immunity passports, they do not necessarily represent immunity or even vaccine status since individuals can also use a negative COVID-19 test to receive one.

During Wednesdays debate Members of Parliament called for setting a deadline for the program, ultimately voting that the system should not be in place longer than 12 months. They also voted in favor of changing the name from the Digital Green Certificate to the EU COVID-19 certificate.

Italian MEP Piernicola Pedicini warned against rushing the approval process of the certificates, stating Haste is not a wise counsel. He also raised concerns about the committee stage for the certificate legislation being skipped.

The next step of implementing the certificate involves negotiations between the European Parliament and the leaders of the 27 EU member states about how each nations will initiate the certificate system. Each member state must set up infrastructure to issue, verify, and store the certificates data. By June the so-called EU gateway will open up allowing member states to join the program.

Free Movement?

During the lead up to the vote, MEPs argued that the certificate should not be used as a tool for discrimination. Rather, they argued, the certificate should be a tool for facilitating freedom of movement. Before Wednesdays vote, Stella Kyriakides EU Commissioner for Health and Food Safety, stated that the certificate is crucial to assist the Member States in the fight against the pandemic while allowing citizens to exercise their free movement rights in a coordinated and safe manner.

However, the idea that the EU COVID-19 certificate grants people their right to move about freely is ridiculous at best, and horrifying at worst. The government  any government  does not grant the people their rights. Additionally, this certificate and similar vaccine passport schemes are explicitly about discriminating against certain people. Specifically, those who have yet to be or choose not to be vaccinated.

The new  COVID-19 certificate must facilitate free movement without discrimination. MEPs demand:

free tests

no quarantine for certificate holders

compatibility with national initiatives

1/2  LIBE Committee Press (@EP_Justice) April 29, 2021

On Thursday the European Parliament noted that holders of an EU COVID-19 certificate should not be subject to additional travel restrictions, such as quarantine, self-isolation or testing. They go on to say that to avoid discrimination against those not vaccinated and for economic reasons, EU countries should ensure universal, accessible, timely and free of charge testing'.

Once again, issuing a passport or certificate that only allows those who have met a specific medical condition the right to travel is discrimination. Of course, in the eyes of the EU making the tests free and readily available is their version of not discriminating. Those of you who dont want to be vaccinated at all are not even given consideration.

Digital_Green_Certificate_en.pdf



Ciaran McCollum, a Belfast-based Northern Irish barrister, says the EU is being dishonest when it promises that the certificates will not be used to discriminate or as travel documents. McCollum says the new legislation would create a situation where guards at the open borders of the EU member states have to inspect individuals for certificates.

As its put in Article 3(1), there will be cross-border verification, performed by the member state authorities mentioned in Article 9(2). In the absence of such checks, the certificates would be useless and the universal framework would not exist, he wrote for the EU Observer. With vaccinated Europeans travellers separated from non-vaccinated, infected from non-infected, and immune from non-immunethe DGC, if applied, would be a guarantee of discrimination within the EU.

McCollum also notes that the Lisbon Court of Appeal and Administrative Court of Vienna have held that PCR testing is unreliable and cannot be relied on for determining infection. He argues this means the certificates are useless as proof of whether you are infected, or can or cannot spread the virus.

Fore Knowledge and The Great Reset

As TLAV has reported since July 2020, the push for vaccine passports is all part of the larger push for a Great Reset and the transformation of every industry on the planet. These passport schemes are only going to increase in the coming months.

In fact, The New York Times Travel section recently ran a piece breaking down all the places in the world with existing vaccine passports and apps. In Denmark, the Coronapas app allows customers who have been vaccinated or recovered from COVID-19 to enter bars, restaurants and museums. The Green Pass in Israel is already dividing up society between the vaccinated and unvaccinated, with only those with the pass allowed to access hotels, gyms, and theaters  theirs specifically disallowing natural immunity for compliance. Estonia and New York state have similar apps already in place.

From my July 2020 report:

The predetermined path we are being led down is known as The Great Reset and was announced in early June by the World Economic Forum. Regular readers will remember that on October 18, 2019, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation partnered with the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security and the WEF on a high-level pandemic exercise known as Event 201. Event 201 simulated how the world would respond to a coronavirus pandemic which swept around the planet. The simulation imagined 65 million people dying, mass lock downs, quarantines, censorship of alternative viewpoints under the guise of fighting disinformation, and even floated the idea of arresting people who question the pandemic narrative.

The World Economic Forum and associates have been pushing the idea of immunity/vaccine passports since last summer and the fact that these schemes are now reality is no coincidence. The fact that the European Commission, the executive branch of the EU, is partnered with the WEF is also no accident. In January, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen spoke at the WEFs annual Davos week that was specifically dedicated to The Great Reset vision.

Ladies and gentlemen, there is no better place than the World Economic Forum to find out about the major trends in our society, von der Leyen said. And this year, the World Economic Forum is once again asking the right questions with your initiative, Klaus, The Great Reset. We must learn from this crisis.

While the WEF and the Gates Foundation coincidentally simulated a pandemic mere months before COVID-19 was the buzz of 2020, the European Union MEPs also seem to have a keen foresight and ability to predict the future. A document listed on the European Unions website shows a 2019-2022 RoadMap on Strengthening Cooperation Against Vaccine Preventable Diseases which makes it clear that Europes highest legislative body had planned for years to develop some type of vaccine passport. The EUs website details how the Road Map has been in development since December 2017.

In the Road Map, under a section titled Actions it reads:

Examine the feasibility of developing a common vaccination card/passport for EU citizens (that takes into account potentially different national vaccination schedules and), that is compatible with electronic immunisation information systems and recognised

2019-2022_roadmap_en



There is also a chart that calls for a Feasibility study for the development of a common EU vaccination card from 2019 to 2021. As we approach June 2021 the roll out of vaccine passports across Europe its clear the roll out of such technology will happen even quicker than anticipated by the European Union.

The WEFs plan for a Great Reset is international in scope. There will likely be no nation spared from the attempts to transform our world and remake it in the vision of the Predator Class. Time is short for those who wish to exercise their voices and speak against the loss of freedom of movement. We either speak up now and stop the Great Reset vision in favor of a Greater Reset, a Peoples Reset, or get comfortable in our digital prisons.
The UN affiliated Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) proposes that governments should publish rules as computer code to be directly consumed by software and machines.  TN Editor

Rules as Code (RaC) is a highly innovative idea that addresses how law and regulations are simultaneously produced in natural language and in working computer code. RaC has important implications not only for producing better rules (meaning clear and fit for purpose), but providing also a strong impetus for a powerful new generation of rule-based software platforms (ones better suited for real-world rules produced by governments and businesses).

RaC is a reaction to, and a projection of, the broader on-going digital revolution impacting citizens and businesses.[4] The World Economic Forum has coined the term The Fourth Industrial Revolution to describe the fundamental change in the way we live, work, and where the physical, digital, and biological worlds are merging.

Why RaC?

Figure 1 summarizes what we see as the basic chain of reasoning for RaC. It identifies the urgency for governments to adapt to an accelerating digital world, the form of an appropriate response, the benefits that would accrue, and the conditions required for success.

What is RaC?

As indicated in the chain of reasoning, RaC represents a fundamental rethinking of how to give effect to a core responsibility of government  rule-making. It reshapes the interactions of the various stakeholders in the rule-making process, including drafters of laws and regulations, rule writers and analysts, and coders of software.

The essence of RaC can be distilled into six fundamental principles, or core notions, as follows:

(1) Digital Public Infrastructure. RaC makes a case for government to take responsibility for delivery of rules as computer code together with the rules expressed in natural language.

Currently, rules are already codified as part of digital services and software systems, though often not by the issuing government itself. Transparency, avoiding translation problems, and reducing duplication of effort are key objectives for RaC. It is generally accepted in many parts of the world that government should deliver public infrastructure suitable for the digital economy  e.g., for digital identity management. RaC or digital legislation and regulation are similar foundational elements of a digital world and economy.

(2) Better Rules. RaC prescribes an iterative, human-centric, test-driven approach for developing rules.

RaC assumes human-consumable rules will be inherently better (more readable, more complete, more fit for purpose) if simultaneously drafted or interpreted along with a machine-consumable version. The traditional model of rules creation can cause challenges for digital service delivery. The rules can be difficult to understand or navigate, and their logic not robust. These shortcomings can make it difficult for designers and developers to build good digital services so people can easily understand their rights, obligations, and entitlements.

(3) Disambiguation. RaC prescribes clarity and precision in human-consumable rules; therefore, vocabulary coordination in the form of a concept model[5] is essential.

Clarity and reduction of ambiguity are the focus during development of the concept model, which assists in the same regard during modeling of decision and development of rules. The iterative process of developing the models and rules in a multidisciplinary team drives clarity and precision. The ultimate test is using working code and automated test cases to clearly prove high quality. Running automated test cases will identify any remaining areas of ambiguity or lack of clarity or precision.

(4) Digital Twin. RAC prescribes a digital twin for government rules. Any rule for use by humans must also be available in a form usable by machines  one that is both readable and highly precise.

Why a digital twin of the rules? Historically, rules have been coded by siloed organizations, often ones outside government, who do their own interpretations. There is no way to ensure consistency of intent with dispersed implementations like this. For example, salary and holiday payments to employees might be digitally completed within payroll software. Payroll software, however, must comply with the rules in employment legislation. Without a digital twin there is no way to guarantee fidelity in the payroll software with the source rules from the employment legislation.

(5) Isomorphism. RAC prescribes that every machine-consumable rule should remain tightly coupled with its human-consumable counterpart throughout its lifetime so that changes can be effectively synchronized at all times.

With RAC, a machine-consumable rule isnt a translation of a rule by separate people at a different point in time but is developed in parallel and at the same time. This digital twin remains closely tied to its human-consumable counterpart so that the meaning of the two dont diverge over time.

(6) Interoperability. RaC prescribes that rules rendered for machines should be independent of software platforms.

Government rules must be democratized and easily accessible. Citizens, entrepreneurs, social innovators, software developers, and the systems they develop should be able to consume the rules without having to translate the rules. This means considering open-source solutions and avoiding any vendor lock-in for platforms capturing the rules and making rules publicly available. Use of open and widely-accepted standards is a critical success factor for RaC.

Summary

RaC prescribes fundamental innovation in how policy and government rules are developed and the format they are published in. It is a direct reaction to a society that becomes more digital. Though aimed at government, it has implications for any organization creating policy  which is just about every organization in the world.

The fundamental goal of RaC is to eliminate the costly and counterproductive chasm between policy development and its implementation as part of digital services  no matter whether undertaken by government itself or through intermediaries such as a citizen advice bureau, a tax agent, a shipping agent, etc.

RaC aims to make government more responsive and adaptive. If adopted wisely, RaC could result in improvements for government and other organizations in all the following respects.

Traceability

Visibility

Transparency

Accessibility

Trust

Regulatory risk reduction

Agility and efficiency

Compliance

The bottom line is a dramatically improved experience dealing with government.

Adoption of RaC enables government to be more agile in its policy making processes. It will also create opportunities for innovation in other areas, such as enforcement approaches in government or users outside government such as the FinTech and RegTech industry.

In its most basic form, RaC has already shown its potential for better rules as demonstrated by the New Zealand Better Rules Initiative, OpenFisca in France, the government of New South Wales in Australia, the School of Public Services in Canada, and the legal interoperability team of the European Commission. The benefits of the approach are clear-cut.

As an innovation, RaC is in its earliest stages. It is likely to evolve in exciting and unexpected ways. Nonetheless, the basic logic of the idea, and the case for it in the digital age, is simply compelling.

Read full story here
By Jessica Corbett, staff writer at Common Dreams.

A coalition of 80 U.S. agricultural, consumer, environmental, public health, and worker groups sent a letter Thursday to key figures in the Biden administration calling for them to respect Mexicos sovereignty and refrain from interfering with its right to enact health-protective policiesspecifically, the phaseout of the herbicide glyphosate and the cultivation of genetically modified corn.

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador quietly rocked the agribusiness world with his New Years Eve decree, Timothy A. Wise of the Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy (ITAP) noted earlier this year. His administration sent an even stronger aftershock two weeks later, clarifying that the government would also phase out GM corn imports in three years and the ban would include not just corn for human consumption but yellow corn destined primarily for livestock.

Mexico imports about 30% of its corn each year, overwhelmingly from the United States, Wise added. Almost all of that is yellow corn for animal feed and industrial uses. Lopez Obradors commitment to reducing and, by 2024, eliminating such imports reflects his administrations plan to ramp up Mexican production as part of the campaign to increase self-sufficiency in corn and other key food crops.

The groups letter on the Mexican policies and U.S. interferencepublished in English (pdf) and Spanish (pdf)is addressed to recently confirmed U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack and U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai. Its lead author is Kristin Schafer, executive director of Pesticide Action Network North America (PANNA).

We call on Secretary Vilsack and Trade Representative Tai, as key leaders in the new administration, to respect Mexicos decision to protect both public health and the integrity of Mexican farming, Schafer said in a statement. It is completely unacceptable for U.S. public agencies to be doing the bidding of pesticide corporations like Bayer, who are solely concerned with maintaining their bottom-line profits.

Fernando Bejarano, director of Pesticide Action Network in Mexico, explained that we are part of the No Maize No Country Campaign, a broad coalition of peasant organizations, nonprofit NGOs, academics, and consumers which support the presidential decree and fight for food sovereignty with the agroecological transformation of agricultural systems that guarantee the right to produce and consume healthy, nutritious food, free of pesticides and transgenics.

We reject the pressure from corporations such as Bayer-Monsantoand their CropLife trade associationwhich are working in both the United States and Mexico to undermine the presidential decree that phases out the use of glyphosate and transgenic corn, Bejarano said.

The letter highlights Guardian reporting on U.S. government documents obtained by the Center for Biological Diversity through a Freedom of Information Act request. The documents revealed that CropLife America and Bayer AGwhich acquired glyphosate-based herbicide developer Monsanto in 2018worked with U.S. officials to lobby against Mexicos plans.

According to journalist Carey Gillams mid-February report:

The emails reviewed by the Guardian come from the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) and other U.S. agencies. They detail worry and frustration with Mexicos position. One email makes a reference to staff within Lopez Obradors administration as vocal anti-biotechnology activists, and another email states that Mexicos health agency (Cofepris) is becoming a big time problem. Internal USTR communications lay out how the agrochemical industry is pushing for the U.S. to fold this issue into the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) trade deal that went into effect July 1. The records then show the USTR does exactly that, telling Mexico its actions on glyphosate and genetically engineered crops raise concerns regarding compliance with USMCA. Citing discussions with CropLife, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) joined in the effort, discussing in an inter-agency email how we could use USMCA to work through these issues.

The Guardian also noted correspondence involving the Foreign Agricultural Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

As the letter to Vilsack and Tai points out: This interference and pressure from the agrochemical industry is continuing. On March 22nd, industry representatives sent a letter directed to your attention as leaders of USTR and USDA, identifying Mexicos planned phaseout of glyphosate and genetically modified corn as a leading concern for agribusiness interests and the pesticide industry (represented by the pesticide industrys trade group, CropLife America).

We strongly object to any interference by U.S. government officials or agribusiness interests in a sovereign states right to enact policy measures to protect the health and well-being of its people, the letter states. We urge your agencies to resist and reject these ongoing efforts.

We welcome the administrations stated commitment to listening to the science, improving public health, protecting the environment, and limiting exposure to dangerous chemicals and pesticides, while holding polluters accountable and prioritizing environmental justice, particularly for communities of color and low-income communities, it adds. We trust that these stated commitments, as well as your dedication to fairness for farmers, extend equally to other countries and include respect for other nations and peoples rights to self-determination.

Other signatories to the letter include the American Sustainable Business Council, Beyond Pesticides, Center for Biological Diversity, Friends of the Earth, Greenpeace USA, Indigenous Environmental Network, ITAP, and Organic Consumers Association.Our work is licensed under Creative Commons (CC BY-NC-ND 3.0). Feel free to republish and share widely.
In a mission to clamp down the spread of Christianity in China, the Chinese Communist government shut down Bible mobile apps and censored Christian-backed social media accounts in popular chat app WeChat on Saturday. This is indicative of an ever-tightening grip of bureaucratic regulations targeting faith workers occurring in the country.

According to International Christian Concern (ICC), Father Francis Liu of the Chinese Christian Fellowship of Righteousness said in a tweet that several Christian WeChat pages, including "Gospel League" and "Life Quarterly," were no longer accessible online.

Anyone attempting to reach such accounts are greeted with the following message: "(We) received report that (this account) violates the 'Internet User Public Account Information Services Management Provisions' and its account has been blocked and suspended."

Bible apps have also been banned from China's App Store, and hard copy Bibles are no longer eligible for purchase online, as per ICC. In China, Bible Apps can only be accessed with the aid of a VPN.

Another indication of the repression is the sale of books that support President Xi Jinping's ideas and communist philosophy in bookstores operated by the state-sanctioned Three-self churches.

ICC noted that "even their WeChat accounts are turning into propaganda channels for CCP."

New religious regulations issued by China's State Administration for Religious Affairs went into force on Saturday, Christian Post (CP) reports. Catholic bishops must be certified and ordained by the state-sanctioned Chinese Catholic Bishops' Conference, according to Article 16 of the regulations in Chapter III.

According to the Union of Catholic Asian News' reading, "the regulations indirectly assert that the election of Catholic bishops will be done by the state-approved system under the Chinese Communist Party's direction and the Vatican and Pope Francis will have no role in it [...] It runs contrary to the laborious China-Vatican deal on the appointment of Catholic bishops, signed in September 2018."

The China-Vatican Agreement of 2018 which has been renewed last year allows the Chinese Government, through its state-approved Patriotic Catholic Chinese Association, to recommend new bishops to the Vatican with the pope's powers of veto. Upon signing the agreement, the Vatican said that it hoped the unification of the approximately 10 million to 12 million Catholics would be promoted by China.

Additionally, Article 27 states that senior religious leaders will hold their positions for a period of three or five years, during which they may resubmit their personal information to the authorities, states the United Kingdom-based group Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW). The group explained that the provision may be used to punish individuals for criticism or failure to comply with regulations by denying their application to re-register.

CSW also noted that the rules in Article 3 mandate clergy to "support the leadership of the Communist Party."

Likewise, Article 12 states that clergy members should not "endanger national security" or be "dominated by foreign forces."

Per the latest reports, religious oppression in China increased in 2020, with church closures and other human rights violations affecting thousands of Christians.

In 2018, the Chinese government prohibited the selling of Bibles at online bookstores around the world in order to conform with a "white paper" that mandated adherence to core socialist principles.

The communist regime's assault on religious rights prompted the United States State Department to designate China as a "country of particular concern" for "continuing to participate in especially serious abuses of religious freedom."

According to Open Doors USA's Global Watch List, China is one of the worst countries in the world when it comes to Christian oppression.

The Christian Council of China and the Committee of the Three-Self Patriotic Movement of the Protestant Churches of China have also reportedly revised the titles and reviews of all their books on their official WeChat bookstore, "Tianfengshuyuan."
U.S. Customs and Border Protection purchased technology that vacuums up reams of personal information stored inside cars, according to a federal contract reviewed by The Intercept, illustrating the serious risks in connecting your vehicle and your smartphone.

The contract, shared with The Intercept by Latinx advocacy organization Mijente, shows that CBP paid Swedish data extraction firm MSAB $456,073 for a bundle of hardware including five iVe vehicle forensics kits manufactured by Berla, an American company. A related document indicates that CBP believed the kit would be critical in CBP investigations as it can provide evidence [not only] regarding the vehicles use, but also information obtained through mobile devices paired with the infotainment system. The document went on to say that iVe was the only tool available for purchase that could tap into such systems.

According to statements by Berlas own founder, part of the draw of vacuuming data out of cars is that so many drivers are oblivious to the fact that their cars are generating so much data in the first place, often including extremely sensitive information inadvertently synced from smartphones.

Indeed, MSAB marketing materials promise cops access to a vast array of sensitive personal information quietly stored in the infotainment consoles and various other computers used by modern vehicles  a tapestry of personal details akin to what CBP might get when cracking into ones personal phone. MSAB claims that this data can include Recent destinations, favorite locations, call logs, contact lists, SMS messages, emails, pictures, videos, social media feeds, and the navigation history of everywhere the vehicle has been. MSAB even touts the ability to retrieve deleted data, divine future plan[s], and Identify known associates and establish communication patterns between them.

The kit can discover when and where a vehicles lights are turned on, and which doors are opened and closed at specific locations.

The kit, MSAB says, also has the ability to discover specific events that most car owners are probably unaware are even recorded, like when and where a vehicles lights are turned on, and which doors are opened and closed at specific locations as well as gear shifts, odometer reads, ignition cycles, speed logs, and more. This car-based surveillance, in other words, goes many miles beyond the car itself.

iVe is compatible with over two dozen makes of vehicle and is rapidly expanding its acquisition and decoding capabilities, according to MSAB.

Civil liberties watchdogs said the CBP contract raises concerns that these sorts of extraction tools will be used more broadly to circumvent constitutional protections against unreasonable searches. The scale at which CBP can leverage a contract like this one is staggering, said Mohammad Tajsar, an attorney with the American Civil Liberties Union of Southern California.

MSAB spokesperson Carolen Ytander declined to comment on the privacy and civil liberties risks posed by iVe. When asked if the company maintains any guidelines on use of its technology, they said the company does not set customer policy or governance on usage.

Getting Smartphone Data Without Having to Crack Into a Smartphone

MSABs contract with CBP ran from June of last year until February 28, 2021, and was with the agencys forensic and scientific arm, Laboratories and Scientific Services. It included training on how to use the MSAB gear.

Interest from the agency, the largest law enforcement force in the United States, likely stems from police setbacks in the ongoing war to crack open smartphones.

Attacking such devices was a key line of business for MSAB before it branched out into extracting information from cars. The ubiquity of the smartphone provided police around the world with an unparalleled gift: a large portion of an individuals private life stored conveniently in one object we carry nearly all of the time. But as our phones have become more sophisticated and more targeted, theyve grown better secured as well, with phone makers like Apple and phone device-cracking outfits like MSAB and Cellebrite engaged in a constant back-and-forth to gain a technical edge over the other.

We had a Ford Explorer  we pulled the system out, and we recovered 70 phones that had been connected to it. All of their call logs, their contacts and their SMS.

But as our phones have grown in sophistication as small computers, so have a whole host of everyday objects and appliances, our cars included. Data-hungry government agencies have increasingly moved to exploit the rise of the smart car, whose dashboard-mounted computers, Bluetooth capabilities, and USB ports have, with the ascendancy of the smartphone, become as standard as cup holders. Smart car systems are typically intended to be paired with your phone, allowing you to take calls, dictate texts, plug in map directions, or read emails from behind the wheel. Anyone whos taken a spin in a new-ish vehicle and connected their phone  whether to place a hands-free call, listen to Spotify, or get directions  has probably been prompted to share their entire contact list, presented as a necessary step to place calls but without any warning that a perfect record of everyone theyve ever known will now reside inside their cars memory, sans password.

The people behind CBPs new tool are well aware that they are preying on consumer ignorance. In a podcast appearance first reported by NBC News last summer, Berla founder Ben LeMere remarked, People rent cars and go do things with them and dont even think about the places they are going and what the car records. In a 2015 appearance on the podcast The Forensic Lunch, LeMere told the shows hosts how the company uses exactly this accidental-transfer scenario in its trainings: Your phone died, youre gonna get in the car, plug it in, and theres going to be this nice convenient USB port for you. When you plug it into this USB port, its going to charge your phone, absolutely. And as soon as it powers up, its going to start sucking all your data down into the car.

In the same podcast, LeMere also recounted the company pulling data from a car rented at BWI Marshall Airport outside Washington, D.C.:

We had a Ford Explorer  we pulled the system out, and we recovered 70 phones that had been connected to it. All of their call logs, their contacts and their SMS history, as well as their music preferences, songs that were on their device, and some of their Facebook and Twitter things as well.  And its quite comical when you sit back and read some of the the text messages.

The ACLUs Tajsar explained, What theyre really saying is We can exploit people because theyre dumb.  We can leverage consumers lack of understanding in order to exploit them in ways that they might object to if it was done in the analog world.

Exploiting the Wild Frontier of the Fourth Amendment

The push to make our cars extensions of our phones (often without any meaningful data protection) makes them tremendously enticing targets for generously funded police agencies with insatiable appetites for surveillance data. Part of the appeal is that automotive data systems remain on what Tajsar calls the frontier of the Fourth Amendment. While courts increasingly recognize your phones privacy as a direct extension of your own, the issue of cracking infotainment systems and downloading their contents remains unsettled, and CBP could be exploiting the lack of legal coverage to get at information that otherwise would be protected by a warrant, Tajsar said.

MSABs technology is doubly troubling in the hands of CBP, an agency with a powerful exception from the Fourth Amendment and a historical tendency toward aggressive surveillance and repressive tactics. The agency recently used drones to monitor protests against the police murder of George Floyd and routinely conducts warrantless searches of electronic devices at or near the border.

It would appear that this technology can be applied like warrantless phone searches on anybody that CBP pleases.

It would appear that this technology can be applied like warrantless phone searches on anybody that CBP pleases, said Mijentes Jacinta Gonzalez, which has been a problem for journalists, activists, and lawyers, as well as anyone else CBP decides to surveil, without providing any reasonable justification. With this capability, it seems very likely CBP would conduct searches based on intelligence about family/social connections, etc., and there wouldnt seem to be anything preventing racial profiling.

Tajsar shared these concerns.

Whenever we have surveillance technology thats deeply invasive, we are disturbed, he said. When its in the hands of an agency thats consistently refused any kind of attempt at basic accountability, reform, or oversight, then its Defcon 1.

Part of the problem is that CBPs parent agency, the Department of Homeland Security, is designed to proliferate intelligence and surveillance technologies among major law enforcement agencies across the country, said Tajsar. What CBP have will trickle down to what your local cops on the street end up getting. That is not a theoretical concern.

The post Your Car Is Spying on You, and a CBP Contract Shows the Risks appeared first on The Intercept.


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WINNIPEG - A religious leader has told court he cannot force worshippers attending his Manitoba church to follow public-health orders aimed at curbing the spread of COVID-19 because it is "God's jurisdiction."

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The Law Courts are shown in Winnipeg on Tuesday, Dec. 15, 2020. Seven Manitoba churches are in court fighting against public-health orders put in place to curb the spread of COVID-19 in the province.THE CANADIAN PRESS/David Lipnowski

WINNIPEG - A religious leader has told court he cannot force worshippers attending his Manitoba church to follow public-health orders aimed at curbing the spread of COVID-19 because it is "God's jurisdiction."

"We have no authority scripturally based and based on Christian convictions to limit anyone from coming to hear the word of God," said Tobias Tissen, a minister at the Church of God Restoration.

Seven Manitoba churches are in Court of Queens 's Bench in Winnipeg this week to fight the province's COVID-19 restrictions.

Chief Justice Glenn Joyal said it's an important case because of intense public interest and the issues involved.

The Justice Centre for Constitutional Freedoms, a Calgary-based group representing the churches, has said the restrictions are unjustified violations of charter-protected freedoms.

The churches are arguing their right to worship and assemble has been breached, which has caused "a crisis of conscience, loneliness, and harm to their spiritual well-being."

Under current health orders, in-person worship services in Manitoba are restricted to 10 people or 25 per cent capacity  whichever is less  and everyone is required to wear a mask.

Tissen, who is a minister at the church just south of Steinbach in rural Manitoba, was the first person to be questioned at the hearing, which is to take place over two weeks.

Tissen and his church have been fined numerous times for violating the restrictions.

Videos of services at the Church of God in January were entered in court and show people singing, hugging and going without face masks despite restrictions in place at the timethat required churches to remain closed.

Denis Guenette, a lawyer for the province, also questioned Tissen's presence as a speaker at multiple protests against restrictions in Manitoba and other provinces.

Images shown in court of the rallies depict hundreds of people standing close together without wearing masks.

Following his testimony Monday, Tissen joined at least 100 protestors in support of the legal challenge outside the courthouse. Health orders restrict public outdoor gatherings to a maximum of 10 people.

In a previous hearing, provincial lawyers told court it's within the bounds of the legislature to grant the chief provincial public health officer authority to impose reasonable restrictions.

Court also heard from Jay Bhattacharya, a professor at Stanford University Medical School who has become known for speaking against lockdown measures in the United States. He has also criticized chief medical adviser Dr. Anthony Fauci's support of restrictions.

He provided an affidavit to court for the churches saying governments could have less intrusive restrictions.

Bhattacharya, who testified by video from California, was questioned about his expertise and whether it should be applied to the case.

Heather Leonoff, a lawyer for the province, pointed out that while Bhattacharya has a PhD in economics and a medical degree, he is not licensed to practice medicine.

The often-confrontational cross-examination went through Bhattacharya's published research and Leonoff questioned whether he had any specific understanding of the situation in Manitoba, specifically with COVID-19 outcomes among Indigenous people.

Bhattacharya was also questioned about his argument that asymptomatic spread is rare and that that's a reason for why restrictions should be loosened.

The hearing will continue Tuesday.

The constitutional challenge is the latest in a string of attempts by churches across the country to quash COVID-19 restrictions on religious gatherings. The Justice Centre has filed similar challenges in British Columbia and Alberta.

In December, Joyal rejected a case brought by Springs Church in Manitoba to hold drive-in services while there were restrictions on public gatherings and in-person religious events.

That church faced more than $32,000 in fines for services at the time of the hearing.

Drive-in church services are now allowed under the province's health orders.

In Alberta, a pastor is currently on trial for violating public health orders in that province.

Pastor James Coates, of GraceLife Church, spent a month in remand for violating a bail condition not to hold church services. He was released in March.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2021.
Because of the Pallister government, apparently were going to ask Manitoba teachers to go North Dakota to get their vaccination. It doesnt make a lot of sense to me.

"Because of the Pallister government, apparently were going to ask Manitoba teachers to go North Dakota to get their vaccination. It doesnt make a lot of sense to me."

 Manitoba NDP Leader Wab Kinew

"We continue to have a resilient, courageous teaching and school staff who will do everything they possibly can, and I say this with gratitude, to make sure that our student education remains an excellent one."

 Pembina Trails School Division superintendent Ted Fransen

The omission of teachers from inclusion in priority groups during initial vaccination rounds for essential workers appears on Premier Brian Pallisters part to be more politically motivated against the union rather than that of public health priorities for front line and essential workers.

This especially stings considering the Manitoba governments recent announcement of a plan to have the provinces teachers take a jaunt across the U.S. border to North Dakota to receive their vaccinations as the province opened up vaccinations to the general public and priority groups in certain high-risk areas in some cities.

Kinew said Friday it makes no sense to send teachers and other school staff on a vaccination mission across the border, given the large supply available here. While a deal struck with North Dakota for truckers crossing the border was a good idea, Kinew is right  telling teachers to cross the border rather than prioritizing them for vaccines here in Manitoba isnt a sensible plan. Manitoba is sitting on more than 100,000 doses, double that of North Dakotas supply being offered up in this new deal.

"The solution, the common sense, which should prevail, is simply to prioritize teachers in Manitoba for vaccines right here," the opposition leader and Fort Rouge MLA said.

With variants of concern known to infect younger people and with higher transmission it only makes sense that teachers be immediately put into a priority group for vaccination as the province has already seen surges of cases involving variants of concern in schools.

However, it would appear even the provinces health experts dont have the best interests of our most important front-line workers in mind, as deputy chief provincial public health officer Dr. Jazz Atwal said Friday that teachers will not be identified as a priority group.

"We have a limited supply of vaccine," Atwal said. "We are prioritizing those at greatest risk. Obviously, if we had vaccine for everyone, wed be giving out vaccine to everyone. We do have to create these priority groups."

The Winnipeg Free Press reported Friday that Manitoba schools are facing a shortage of teachers who are able to physically be in a classroom due to rising exposures to highly infectious variants in classrooms that have led to school closures and switches to remote learning.

Manitoba Teachers Society president James Bedford said teachers are concerned about the variants, lags in reporting on the provinces school dashboard, staffing concerns, and access to vaccines, and are asking the province to call a universal move to remote learning for all schools in Winnipeg as case numbers continue to rise.

As of Thursday last week, 14 schools in the Winnipeg catchment area were operating remotely and two more will be joining the list this week. According to the provinces dashboard, there are 167 schools provincially that have had at least one case of COVID in the past 14 days, and that more than half of active cases in schools are variants of concern.

While some relief may be on the horizon as approximately 385 students graduate from their teaching programs in the province, the issue could have been headed off if the provincial government had simply prioritized teachers for vaccinations.

Its obvious that the Pallister government is working with the thinking that the end of the school year and summer break is just around the corner. This may be why there has been a lot of heel-dragging when it comes to providing vaccinations to teachers and school staff on a priority basis.

However, as weve seen with the variants of concern, a lot can change in a very short amount of time and the end of the school year is still two months away. Students have been behind on learning since the first school closures in 2020 and the Manitoba government had plenty of data to show that teachers and our childrens education should have been a priority.

Pallister, as a former teacher himself  as he loves to remind us  should understand that better than anyone in government. Yet here we are with teachers being told to, on their own time and dime, head to the U.S. to get vaccinated.

Theres still time to "use common sense," as Kinew said, and get vaccines into teachers arms without adding one more burden on their shoulders. Its time to truly put education first in the province. Lets hope Pallister sees the sense in protecting those who are educating our future.
(The Center Square)  Gov. Greg Abbott gave Americans a view of the Texas border area being breached every day by cartels and human smugglers in an interview on Sunday with Fox News Maria Bartiromo. Flying above the Rio Grande River, he said 2,000 people are entering Texas every day in rafts, boats, and through gaps in the unfinished border wall.

Abbott said known criminals are entering Texas and the U.S. illegally as a result of the Biden administrations open border policies. In the month of March alone, the Texas Department of Public Safety made 598 criminal arrests and 16,000 referrals to U.S. Border Patrol. Many being arrested are known criminals, sex-offenders and gang members, he said.

Abbott said the Biden administration's border policies have created an open season for human traffickers, for drug smugglers, for drug cartels and gangs.

"These criminals are preying upon women and children exposing them to abuse and to terror," he continued. "Because the federal government is failing to respond to these dangers, Abbott created Operation Lone Star in March. The operation involves DPS, Texas Rangers, the Texas National Guard and other members of law enforcement who are working to prevent human and drug smuggling, but a lot of criminals are getting away because the volume of criminal activity is overwhelming law enforcement, the governor said.

It used to be that most of the illegal crossings of the border occurred at nighttime, Abbott said. But under this administration it occurs in higher volume during the daytime, he said as the camera recorded scores of individuals walking across the border in broad daylight.

Abbott pointed to where the border wall has not been completed along the Rio Grande River. The wall construction is already paid for and delivered materials are lying on the ground, he notes, but the Biden administration halted the completion of the wall.

The Texas border with Mexico is 1,254 miles. The U.S.-Mexico border is 1,933 miles long. The Texas border is not a straight-line desert border like Arizonas, Abbott notes. Its much harder to navigate and patrol across tough terrain, the Rio Grande Valley and river and other harsh environmental conditions.

Abbott said neither the president nor the vice president has had any contact with him and that the president doesnt care about the border. The administration does not want to resolve the challenges we have on the border, he added. The first 100 days of the Biden administration have been great for the gangs, the cartels, for the human traffickers who have been exploiting the border.

The financial cost to Texas is expected to exceed $1 billion, Abbott said, for the state to secure the border of the United States of America.

But the cost to the United States is greater, he adds. 

The border comes to the rest of America every single day, because criminals are transporting drugs and people to every state, he said.

In March, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas disclosed that the surge at the US-Mexico border is likely the worst it has been in 20 years. Refusing to call the situation a crisis, he said, [w]e are on pace to encounter more individuals on the southwest border than we have in the last 20 years.

Bartiromo reported that the cartels are making $400 million monthly from Bidens policies, charging $4,000 per person to cross the border, taking 2,000 people a day, and in some places more. One border patrol guard apprehended a group from China, including individuals like scientists, engineers and doctors who each paid $50,000 to be brought into Texas illegally, she reported.

You have to ask why the CCP is sending these people to the border, she said. Obviously they dont want to be noticed. What are they doing when they get here?

Abbott replied, Could be espionage. If there are still people out there who think these are just people coming from Mexico or Central America coming here to engage in agricultural [work] they are forgetting about the people from China, from Iran, from terrorist-based nations, who are not being apprehended but released into the general population.

Once the more than 100,000 people entering the U.S. illegally every month are processed by Border Patrol, they are released into the country, given airfare and bus tickets, most are enrolled in the Refugee Resettlement Program and given a pathway to citizenship, the Biden administration has announced, referring to this approach as compassionate.

In February 2020, Customs and Border Protection encountered 36,687 illegal immigrants; by February 2021, agents encountered 100,441, and in March 2021, encountered 171,700.

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has sued the Biden administration five times over immigration and says the lawsuits will continue because the Biden administration continues to break the law.
Today will either mark the start of Westpacs comeback or the day it will rue by setting itself an ambitious cost reduction target against which it will be judged for three years.

Westpacs 60 per cent increase in half-year cash profit, excluding one-offs, announced on Monday, reflects some wind back from last years big provisions and the generally better experience around bad debts. This is a feature investors will see over the next week as ANZ and the National Australia Bank report their half-year results.

The centrepiece of Westpac chief executive Peter Kings recovery plan is a $2b cost-cutting drive. Credit:Dominic Lorrimer

Westpacs result has provided the market with a glimpse of how banks are looking in the post COVID world. Given Australias big four banks are almost entirely domestically focused, the long tail of the pandemic ravages being experienced in other countries is not having any real impact on their business.

Our banks are far more sensitive to Australias economic growth and employment.
'My Heart Beats Just Like Yours' Campaign Launched at Priests for Life

NEWS PROVIDED BY

Priests for Life

May 3, 2021

COCOA, Fla., May 3, 2021 /Christian Newswire/ -- Priests for Life today launched a new campaign to highlight the humanity of children in the womb.

"My Heart Beats Just Like Yours emphasizes that an abortion doesn't just terminate a pregnancy -- it takes the life of a human being whose heart beats just like ours," said Father Frank Pavone, National Director.

Janet Morana, Executive Director, added, "Abortion Stops a Beating Heart has long been one of the most effective messages of the pro-life movement. My Heart Beats Just Like Yours builds on that phrase by making it even more personal, particularly to a woman who might be tempted to abort the baby whose heart is beating right below her own."

At MyHeartBeatsJustLikeYours.com visitors can see the most amazing photos of babies in the womb that were provided by the Center for Bioethical Reform. Likewise they can see video of the beating heart of a baby at 6 weeks of development.

Products for this Campaign include an informational brochure, t-shirts, buttons and stickers which can all be ordered at the site.

"Abortion advocates like to say that most abortions take place in the first trimester, as if at that stage these children are not quite human and it's OK to end their lives," Father Pavone said. "But at only 8 weeks of development, for example, the baby has more than 4,000 body parts routinely found in newborns and adults, and possess about 1 billion specialized cells, forming nearly all components of all body systems! It's about time that abortion advocates 'follow the science,' and face the facts this campaign will unveil."

SOURCE Priests for Life

CONTACT: 321-500-1000, 888-735-3448, mail@priestsforlife.org

Related Links

www.priestsforlife.org/CBR-Imagery.pdf

MyHeartBeatsJustLikeYours.com

www.EndAbortion.US
Fallen neobank Xinjas chief executive Eric Wilson has resigned, with the company abandoning plans to launch a share trading platform after quietly ending negotiations with its Middle Eastern investor.

Xinja has renamed itself TECHSTACK and informed shareholders last Friday that it would now look to generate revenue by sharing its technology with wealth management and banking companies.

Xinja chief executive Eric Wilson will leave the company he founded in 2017 due to family ill health. Credit:Dean Richter

Mr Wilson, Xinjas founder and chief executive, has stepped down citing family health problems and will be replaced with ex-McKinsey and Goldman Sachs consultant Anna Burton, who joined the neobanks leadership team around 18 months ago.

Xinja became the first Australian bank to return all customer deposits in January after it failed to develop a sustainable business model that would allow it to offer banking services legally.
Billionaire retailer Solomon Lews unexpected decision to repay $15.6 million in government JobKeeper subsidies will not be followed by a number of other notable ASX-listed recipients, including Harvey Norman founder Gerry Harvey.

On Monday, Mr Lews retail empire Premier Investments, which operates companies such as Peter Alexander and Smiggle, notified shareholders it would pay back the JobKeeper net benefit it had received for the first half of the 2021 financial year.

Premier Investments chairman Solomon Lew wil repay $15.6 million in JobKeeper. Credit:Eddie Jim

The move is a remarkable backflip for Mr Lew and Premier, who took a firm stance against repaying the subsidies earlier this year alongside a number of other major Australian companies, including retailer Harvey Norman, car dealer Eagers Automotive, and footwear seller Accent Group.

However, it appears the billionaires change of heart will not be replicated by other major companies who received the stimulus while also reporting higher profits and paying dividends.
Underlying the shorter term influences was the accelerating shift towards greener economies that would underpin demand for copper - where supply has been constrained by the dearth of large new resources and the increasing costs of exploiting existing reserves - along with demand for the nickel, cobalt and lithium needed for the surge in demand for batteries. Some of the supply-demand pressures in the markets for some commodities will wash out as (hopefully) the economic recovery from the pandemic continues and broadens, production increases and the process of rebuilding inventories depleted by the pandemic that has been a factor in the price hikes. Its a confused picture, with an over-lapping element of relatively short, incident-driven cycles, longer-term lifts to demand for some resources from a change in thinking about the roles of government in some economies and particular structural drivers of a supercycle for some quite specific commodities. Another important short-term influence has been Chinas buying. It seems China took advantage of the pandemic-depressed prices last year to go on a buying spree, particularly targeting agricultural products. That may have been to try to make up for the big shortfalls in Chinas commitments under the trade deal it struck with the Trump administration to seal a trade truce or simply opportunistic.

Some of its purchases might also have been to accelerate the restoration of its key pig herd after it was decimated over the past several years by waves of swine fever. The spikes in iron ore and other metal prices probably reflect to some degree Chinas stimulus measures in response to the pandemic and then, more recently, a build-up in inventories of strategic metals. A weakening US dollar might also be playing a role in the commodity cycle. With China now winding back its responses to the pandemic and re-starting the deleveraging program that the pandemic interrupted, its economic growth is moderating sharply and therefore the pandemic element of its demand for commodities will also decline. The conclusion, therefore, is that there is a cyclical element to commodity markets that will wane as the recovery and vaccination programs in the developed economies roll out and those economies transition to more normal growth trajectories.

Some things, however, wont return to normal or at least wont return in the near term. Governments around the world have injected many trillions of dollars into their economies in unprecedented levels of fiscal stimulus/relief. Central banks have overseen far more expansive monetary policy than they did during the 2008 financial crisis. Joe Bidens infrastructure spending spree will increase demand for certain commodities. Credit:AP In the US the Biden administration is pursuing a radical, by US standards, economic and social policy agenda that involves massive increases in government spending. The Biden infrastructure plan, if it can get past Congress, would see $US2.3 trillion invested in Americas physical and social infrastructure. Thats a program that will run for nearly a decade, introducing a large new source of demand for commodities.

The inexorable drive to lower carbon emissions is accelerating and the sudden emergence of the US as a leader in that drive will fuel increased demand for the metals required for batteries, solar panels, wind farms and the technologies that support them. Loading There is already an acute shortage of the semi-conductors required for many 21st Century technologies that is disrupting industries from auto production to consumer electronics. Demand for those chips will only increase in the long term as the landscape of technology and the changes to the way industries and households behave and operate evolve. Resources like copper, nickel, lithium, minerals sands and silicon ought to be underpinned by a long-term structural increase in demand. For others, like iron ore or oil, the gains from increased demand from the recovery from the pandemic or from longer-term influences like the Biden infrastructure plan will be mitigated in the longer term by new supply and changes in their markets.

Oil will obviously be impacted by the efforts to lower carbon emissions and the bringing forward of targets for heft reductions in emissions. It will also be affected by OPEC winding back the cutbacks it made to production when prices were far lower. The oil price was down around $US20 a barrel in April last year. The iron ore market has been shaped over the past year by Chinas stimulus and Brazils shortcomings. Brazil has yet to fully recover from the impact of its tailings dam disasters, which has produced windfalls for the Pilbara miners. Brazil will eventually be back in full production; Chinas demand will taper as it deflates its stimulus and, in the medium term, increases the proportion of scrap metals used in its steel industry. Copper prices are back at 2011 levels. Credit:Louise Kennerley Where resource companies cut back heavily on investment in new production after the last supercycle ended violently there will be some new volumes enticed into the market by the current price settings.
Elon Musk has done a better job at selling and making cars in China in just two years than he has in the US over the past decade. As a foreign business, hes also had a smooth ride with the authorities - until recently.

Last month, a Tesla owner at the Shanghai Auto Show protested the company by jumping onto the roof of a Model 3 and alleging faulty brakes had landed her father in hospital. Footage of the incident pitched the company into the centre of a Chinese social media storm. That came just as the company announced blowout earnings in the country, with China contributing around 30 per cent of revenues in the March quarter. Its become an ongoing saga, and regulators have now stepped in.

Elon Musk has done a great job selling Tesla to China but the company has found itself in hot water. Credit:Bloomberg

Thats a big deal for Tesla. A company that often treats the state with insolence is getting some of it own medicine. How Musk handles the issue will determine his success, not just in China but around the world.

Tesla has long followed a strategy of keeping its head down in China, shying away from making big proclamations about its operations and regulators. On a first-quarter earnings call last week, executives barely mentioned the country and its Shanghai factory.
Were completely moving in the wrong direction, said Trent Munro, one of Australias most experienced biotech and biopharmaceutical experts. Professor Munro led efforts to develop and manufacture the University of Queenslands vaccine, which did not make it past clinical trials. Why are companies pulling out of manufacturing in Australia, rather than coming in? Australia needs to find ways of attracting more industry here. We need the financial incentive, but we also need the business incentive to bring the companies here to do the work. Examine newsletter Science and health explained and analysed with a rigorous focus on the evidence. Examine is a weekly newsletter by science reporter Liam Mannix. Sign up to receive it every Tuesday.

Loading The Victorian government committed $50 million to local mRNA vaccine manufacturing in April and a scientist closely involved in the project claimed at the time that would be enough to start making jabs within a year. However, Professor Munro said the investment was not enough to result in commercial manufacturing. The money is only one part. You need the operational partner to do that. And thats what I havent seen yet, he said. In simple terms, we know what all the steps are [to make a vaccine]. But its like saying you can go into a Michelin-star restaurant and make the dish.

That operational partner, at least in the short term, wont be Pfizer, which is focussing on current operations. At this time we are not in discussions for any additional manufacturing outside these established supply lines for this vaccine, a company spokeswoman said. Loading Replay Replay video Play video Play video Once the pandemic supply phase is over and we enter a phase of regular supplies, Pfizer will certainly evaluate all additional opportunities available. MRNA vaccines contain snippets of genetic code that, harnessing the bodys own protein factories, makes copies of the spike protein SARS-COV-2 uses to infect our cells. Our immune system spots those copies and develops antibody defences against them.

Loading Local manufacturing would require setting up a global supply chain. Pfizers vaccine is made up of more than 280 components  many currently in short supply  imported from 19 different countries. The company sold its Adelaide biologics manufacturing plant last year and plans to relocate operations offshore. Late last year the company confirmed its Perth factory will close in 2024. But Pfizer says it is not divesting from Australia and plans to invest $140 million in its Melbourne facility over the next decade. In October last year, British vaccine manufacturer GlaxoSmithKline announced it would shut down its 300-person manufacturing plant in Melbourne.

In 2014, Australias home-grown pharmaceutical giant CSL picked Switzerland over Australia for a new $500 million plant, despite that countrys high labour costs and strong currency. The plant manufactures therapies based on research done by CSL in Australia. The big problem that new and existing players face in Australia is commercialising the intellectual property created here, said Paul Chamberlin, a principal with TG Endeavour, which has been engaged by CSL to lobby the federal government on the issue. Most of our major competitors  Switzerland, the UK, India and Singapore for example - have IP [intellectual property] incentive tax rates, commonly known as a patent box. Many others are considering it too. Creating such an incentive here would decrease the flow of Australian medical IP overseas and underpin the growth of advanced manufacturing jobs, infrastructure investment and sovereign self-reliance in critical medicines, vaccines and other health equipment and supplies. Loading

The Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources did not respond to emailed questions before deadline. The new owners of Pfizers Adelaide factory are privately backed BioCina. Chief executive Ian Wisenberg is now hunting for new opportunities for the 4600-square-metre, Therapeutic Goods Administration-approved pharmaceutical manufacturing facility. He said it could be used to make key components of an mRNA vaccine for an investment in the range of $90 million. We have a gem in Adelaide, with the facility, the capability, the expertise. This is something were saying, we have the ability, we can help, he said. Mr Wisenburg said he had been approached by both the federal government and consultants McKinsey to assess his factory.

The federal government had asked him to approach Pfizer to see if it might be possible to secure an Australian licence, he said. I clearly do have [Pfizers] ear and the inside track. Mr Wisenburg said he had put in three applications to the federal governments Manufacturing Modernisation Fund, plus another two to the Modern Manufacturing Initiative  both part of the governments $1.5b Modern Manufacturing Strategy  asking for funds to upgrade the Adelaide plant. The applications remain under consideration, but he expects the likelihood of a meaningful outcome to be small. Australia has fallen behind in manufacturing, he said.
Loading A number of law firms, including the Human Rights Law Centre, say they are exploring a legal challenge to the ban either on constitutional grounds or on the basis the Health Ministers decision was wrong. Mr Hunt announced late on Friday night that, in a decision based on medical advice, flights from India would be paused until May 15 given the countrys worsening COVID situation. The countrys daily case numbers reached global record levels last week. Daily recorded numbers of new cases topped 400,000. Mr Hunt enacted powers under the Biosecurity Act to issue fines of up to $66,000 and five years jail for anyone caught circumventing the ban.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the government was making decisions in Australias best interests. This is a temporary arrangement, its been put in place to ensure that we do not get a third wave here in Australia and that our quarantine system can remain strong, he said on 2GB radio. Human Rights Law Centre executive director Hugh de Kretser called on the government to abandon the ban. Loading Replay Replay video Play video Play video Many Australians are in difficulty overseas as the pandemic continues and have been prevented from getting home by the flight limits already imposed by the Australian government, Mr de Kretser said. The Australian government should support them, not abandon and criminalise them at the worst possible time.

Loading He confirmed the centre was exploring a legal challenge. Because Australia has no charter of human rights, any domestic legal challenge would either be made on constitutional grounds before the High Court, or on administrative law grounds before the Federal Court, law experts Professor Anne Twomey and Professor George Williams both suggested. A constitutional challenge could argue that it is unconstitutional to punish Australians in a law that hasnt been passed by Parliament, or that citizens have an implied right to return home. Mr Robertson, in quarantine in Sydney after flying from the UK on a speaking tour, acted pro bono for two test cases of Australians stranded in the United States.

He said because Australia does not have a human rights charter, the legal team had to go to the United Nations Human Rights Committee to argue it breached international law. In the case of the two Australians, two men separately stuck in the US, both had been vaccinated and were prepared to pay for quarantine, but were prevented from coming home. The UN committee issued an interim request that the men should be able to return home and called on the government to justify its policy of excluding its citizens. It would be easier to challenge if we had a charter of rights, but we had to go to the UN to establish that Australians have a right to return to their native land, Mr Robertson said. Marque Lawyers managing partner Michael Bradley said he was actively exploring a legal case and was considering arguing that the minister had overreached on administrative law grounds.

Loading The act, Mr Bradley said, gave the minister the power to do pretty much anything, but it must be appropriate and not excessive. Its not a licence to go overboard, he said, adding there were other ways of managing Australians in India rather than making it a crime for them to come home. This is an extraordinary precedent and if the government is right, that it can do this, then of course it can do it again and that fundamentally changes what we all think and understand attaches to our citizenship. At least 36,000 Australians are stuck abroad who cannot come home because of strict quarantine limits on how many people can enter the country per week.
Noel James Olive was born in Sydney on January 24, 1931, one of six children of May (nee Williams) and Jack Olive. Living back in the city after bush adventures, he became a wharfie. After returning from China, his jobs included ironworker at a foundry and builders labourer. In the late 1970s, Australian university entrance was at its least expensive, before or since. Noel had done enough with brawn, he decided, and applied his brain to making up for lost time. Qualification in law at Macquarie University, begun in 1978, was completed in 1982. Strongly influenced by an Aboriginal activist, Pat OShane, with whom he lived for a period, he became involved with a committee to defend black rights. She went on to become Australias first Aboriginal magistrate. Subsequently, Olive welcomed the chance to join a legal team for the Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody. When the royal commission first came to Perth, the local people became somewhat excited. They could not stand idly by and so regularly gathered on Perth street corners armed with loudhailers. No surprise to find Olive standing alongside Aboriginal leaders, Michael Mansell, Lennie Culbong, and the Reverend Ben Taylor, all talking up the need for the commission, the need for public support and for co-operation. It was extraordinary that such public agitation had to take place to bolster the commissions arrival in the West Australian capital, given that the order for a legal inquiry had been at the national level of government. Yet it was as a result of the emotion generated on the issue of race, especially in the justice system and in the public domain. Noel Olive leading a demonstration about Indigenous deaths in custody.

The police and prison officers unions publicly opposed the royal commission holding hearings in Western Australia. They did not consider that their conduct should be subject to scrutiny when an Aboriginal had died in their custody. The number of deaths in the West was the highest of any state and there was a good deal of public concern as to the nature and circumstances of those deaths. Consider the reaction of the people of the country town of Geraldton, 400 kilometres north of Perth, where a prison existed. A large crowd of Aboriginal people and whitefellas were together demanding an end to the persecutions by police and prison officers, demonstrated in 1989 in support of the commission. They wanted the legal investigation to commence. Where was the action to protect people in custody? They were fed up. Olives work in WA included representing Aboriginal people appearing before the commission. His determined voice led him not only to Slim Parker but also to Peg Whittington, a commissioner for the deaths in custody watch committee with whom Olive did a thorough northern excursion to meet communities and understand priorities. In 1992, Michael Olive stayed with his father in Perth, meeting Slim and hearing their views on major issues such as the Mabo decision on land rights. On a drive from Perth to Tom Price, through stunning country, he says, Dad and I met visitors who, led by an Indigenous tour guide, were highly impressed by the Karijini Gorge area. Olive had three books to show for his immersion in the Pilbara: Karijini Mirlimirli: Aboriginal Histories from the Pilbara, as editor; Enough is Enough: A History of the Pilbara Mob, described by the publishers, Fremantle Arts Centre Press, as an alarming look into the justice system that failed to treat Indigenous Australians as equals; and Out with the Pilbara Mob.

Noel Olive His marriage in 1958, to Diana Hill, produced three children. It ended in divorce. After returning to a settled existence in the NSW coastal town of Umina, Olives intellectual life centred on the University of the Third Age, of which he became local president. Olive was a big ideas man and was good at rallying others to the cause. Once he got an idea in his head, hed see it through. He was also fun to be around and was quite the ladies man. In retirement, he organised a camping trip back to the Pilbara. Two had to drop out due to other commitments so he ended up taking three women with him: his then girlfriend, an ex, and the exs friend. It was 40 degrees heat, a disagreement erupted, the ex left for Sydney, and the two remaining women didnt get along. A postcard with a lone Kombi van on the front arrived at Sue Young and Chris Moes home a week or so later: Sue and Chris, this is a big trip and all my defects are on show. The sun, the wind, the rain (water) all manage to hassle my life  but still I smile. This is just another of lifes journeys from which we learn things. Noel had just turned 81. In his later years, he became a keen painter, mainly of Pilbara scenes. He turned his garage into a gallery called  appropriately for one who had championed the cause of peace  The Olive Branch.
A teenager has been charged in relation to an alleged carjacking of a delivery driver at Bidwell, in Sydneys west.

The incident occurred about 1pm on Monday when a man 21, driving a Hyundai iLoad van stopped at a house in Bidwell to make a delivery, police said.

When the man returned to his vehicle he was allegedly approached by a young male, unknown to him.

The teenager allegedly took the keys from the driver, before threatening him with a knife. He then drove away in the van.

The driver contacted police after a short time, the van was spotted on Parramatta Road, Auburn, and the teenager, who did not have a licence, was arrested.
Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk will ask Prime Minister Scott Morrison at national cabinet to expand the number of GPs who can deliver COVID-19 vaccines.

Ms Palaszczuk said Queensland was not yet receiving the volume of vaccines needed to set up mass vaccination centres.

But I put a proposal to the federal government as to whether or not we could expand the GP network, which to me makes sense, Ms Palaszczuk said.

The GPS are now doing [flu] immunisation and perhaps - when there is more supply - the federal government can look to expand that GP network, she said.
A 16-year-old boy has died after his motorbike crashed into a fence during a dirt bike race at a public track in Brisbane on Monday.

The victim was racing at Mick Doohan Raceway on Raubers Road at Banyo, on the citys northside, when he crashed about 1.45pm and died at the scene.

A water-logged Mick Doohan Raceway on Saturday. Credit:Facebook - North Brisbane Junior Motorcycle Club.

North Brisbane Junior Motorcycle Club was hosting the 2021 Queensland Dirt & Long Track Championship this long weekend, but rain forced racing to be postponed for most of Saturday and half of Sunday.

The finals of the track titles were rescheduled for Monday morning, with the finals of the dirt track titles in the afternoon, according to the club.
Most women undergoing IVF are using add-on therapies for which there is no proof they will work, and researchers have warned couples the money would be better spent on more cycles of IVF.

National research to be published in the journal, Human Reproduction, on Tuesday found 82 per cent of women had used one or more add-ons with IVF in the past four years.

Most add-ons (72 per cent) cost extra, some up to $700 per cycle.

Pharmacist Diane Kwok with sons Isaac, three, and Tobias, one. Credit:Wayne Taylor

Monash University researcher Dr Karin Hammarberg said given there was no evidence to show any add-ons worked, nor that they were free of harm, it was difficult to justify them.
Loading What it means is that most people who became eligible for vaccination on Monday will only be offered the AstraZeneca vaccine until more Pfizer, or a different vaccine, becomes available at a later date. Is AstraZeneca safe?

In people 50 years and over, ATAGI advises that the benefit of vaccination with AstraZeneca COVID vaccine outweighs the very small risks of a rare clotting condition associated with vaccination. If you are under 50 and are eligible for a vaccine because of your work or background, you can still receive the AstraZeneca vaccine if you wish, but the decision should be discussed with your treating GP.

Where can I get it? There are now 22 locations taking bookings or walk-in appointments to deliver vaccines in Victoria. A line-up outside the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, one of the mass-vaccination hubs in Victoria. Credit:Joe Armao Among the 22 sites are six mass-vaccination hubs  at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (or Jeffs shed) at Southbank, the former Ford factory in Geelong, the Royal Exhibition Building in Carlton, the Heidelberg Repatriation Hospital, Sunshine Hospital and the Mercure Hotel in Ballarat. From Tuesday a seventh mass site will open at Cranbourne Turf Club. Most people will be able to quickly book in and receive their shots at the mass vaccine hubs along with some general practice respiratory clinics.

A federal health spokesman said last week general practices that have sufficient doses available may choose to vaccinate those aged over 50 earlier than May 17, but GPs should prioritise patients in phases 1a and 1b. The table below shows the clinics taking walk-ins, but the government has advised bookings are preferable for all sites. Where do I book?

Phone bookings are encouraged at all the sites by calling 1800 675 398, and selecting option 3, option 2, option 2.

Only after your first appointment will you be able to book in for your second dose. Are all sites up and running?

A spokeswoman for the Health Department said all publicised locations were fully functional on Monday morning, but some sites such as Box Hill Hospital were very busy. If a site is at capacity then people with bookings will be prioritised  thats why we always strongly encourage people to book ahead  they can call 1800 675 398 to book, she said.

How many doses do I need? Both the AstraZeneca vaccine and the Pfizer vaccine require two doses for the highest protection from serious illness from COVID-19. The AstraZeneca vaccine doses should be given three months apart, while those receiving Pfizer vaccines must wait three weeks between doses. Is there any cost?

All vaccines in Australia are free for Australian citizens, permanent residents, refugees and those seeking asylum, as well as those on temporary visas such as working migrants or international students.

How long will it take? Those with a booked slot will be seen quickly, but there are still a number of steps you need to go through at your appointment including checking in via QR code, filling out a questionnaire, receiving paperwork, having a nurse talk you through what to expect and checking your personal information, and waiting at least 15 minutes after your shot before you are able to leave. Those who arrive early for their appointment should be comfortably in and out in under an hour. Loading The Victorian government is posting wait times for walk-in sites, which on Monday ranged from 10 minutes to one hour.

What should I expect after my dose? Possible side effects after receiving an AstraZeneca vaccine are similar to those you may get after a regular flu vaccine. Two-thirds of people get some side-effect symptoms such as headaches, nausea, muscle pain, a fever or chills or tenderness where the injection went in. Less common side effects can be dizziness, decreased appetite, enlarged lymph nodes or stomach pain. According to health authorities, these side effects are usually mild, and go away within a day or two. Some people will experience more serious flu-like symptoms, which are more common in the first dose than the second. Read more about rare side effects here. For more information about the locations and vaccines visit coronavirus.vic.gov.au/vaccine.
Buying a house in Perth is now almost $30,000 more expensive than it was at the beginning of the year, with the average house sale price tipping over $500,000 in April.

Data from Western Australias real estate institute, REIWA, pegs the average house sale price for April at $508,000; up from $495,000 in March and $480,000 in December 2020.

It marks the ninth consecutive month of price increases in Perths racing property market, however the monthly rate of growth appears to have slowed.

CoreLogics home value index for dwellings in Perth rose 0.8 per cent in April, lower than a 1.8 per cent increase in March and a 1.5 per cent lift in February.

It contributes to signs the strongest national property boom in decades is slowing.
As UNESCO puts it: While a UNESCO Global Geopark must demonstrate geological heritage of international significance, the purpose of a UNESCO Global Geopark is to explore, develop and celebrate the links between that geological heritage and all other aspects of the areas natural, cultural and intangible heritages. Its about acknowledging a communitys connection to country, and promoting that internationally. Exploring underneath the London Bridge rock formation in the Murchison. Credit:Sean Scott/Australias Golden Outback It is becoming an increasingly lucrative label, as geotourism increases in popularity globally. There are 169 UNESCO Global Geoparks in 44 countries, with China boasting the most at 39. While there are none in Australia, there is a movement building to change that.

Today, a national Australian Geoparks Network is being launched to help identify and advance emerging geotourism areas. And in April, the Australian Geoscience Council released a national geotourism strategy, which advocates for state and federal governments to create a clear approvals pathway for the development of geotourism projects such as geoparks. It is understood AGC will hold a meeting with government representatives this month to discuss the strategy. The advancements reflect a broader push for the development of geotourism areas, from at least half a dozen regional locations nationally and from various tourism, regional development and science-focused groups. Edith Cowan University honorary professor of tourism Ross Dowling, who is chair of the new Australian Geoparks Network, said it was an opportune time for the promotion of geotourism in Australia, as local tourists looked for new places to explore. Since the launch of the Murchison GeoRegion I have received a lot of feedback about how it is putting a spotlight on tourism in a regional area, which is what we desperately need during COVID, Mr Dowling said.

Australians are seeking new places to go and visit and this is helping to bring domestic tourists to the region. Once COVID restrictions stop, we will then start to attract international travellers familiar with geotourism into Australia. China has the most geoparks in the world and so they know this brand and they are looking for that when they travel. I have heard from China, Vietnam, Portugal and so many other places about how the creation of geoparks in a regional area has driven an increase in tourism into the region and as a result an increase in economic development. In China, a survey of eight geoparks showed that geotourism-generated revenue tripled in the first four years of their existence. The Yuntaishan UNESCO Global Geopark helped transform the economy of the Jiaozuo City region, with geotourism-related income increasing nearly 50 times between 2001 to 2012. Australia previously had one UNESCO Global Geopark  the Kanawinka geopark in South Australia and Western Victoria  between 2009 and 2012. It is understood confusion among some stakeholders about the nature of geoparks and teething problems with approvals meant the geopark only existed for its initial four-year accreditation period.

Ian Lewis, a former director of Kanawinka, said it was exciting geotourism areas were re-gaining momentum in Australia. There is no reason why we shouldnt have geoparks in Australia, he said. This new network is the kind of platform that could liaise with government at various levels about what geoparks are and that they are a positive thing for the nations tourism. The Archway at the Undara Volcanic National Park in QLD Credit:Undara Volcanic National Park Advocates from various groups are keen to ensure the process for establishing future geotourism areas is clear, and all relevant stakeholders understand the role and benefits of geoparks.

In its national strategy, AGC says there is an urgent need to clarify and clearly define the approval processes required for major geotourism project development in Australia. For a geopark to be established, it is understood it would need to gain both state and federal approval, before being assessed by UNESCO for accreditation. WA Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan said the government was really beginning to understand how we can celebrate and promote our extraordinary geology and the landscapes it underpins. Promoting special geosites will foster tourism in some of our more remote towns and communities, supporting local jobs and bringing opportunities for Aboriginal business, she said. Last year the McGowan Government, through the Mid West Development Commission, supported the Murchison GeoRegion project, as a first step towards UNESCO recognition for the region as a geopark.

Earlier this month I met with Geoparks WA and have encouraged the group to apply for grant funding through our various schemes, including the Regional Economic Development Grants. Geoparks WA president Alan Briggs said there was potential for other regions to follow the Murchison in prioritising geotourism. Geoparks are founded on the geology of the area and geotourism is the driving business but it is about a lot more than geology, he said. It is about education, engagement with communities and most importantly in the rural areas, it is about growing local businesses and creating jobs, particularly where towns are losing population. When you think about what you do when you travel; you research attractions that appeal for you and the idea of geoparks appeals to a lot of people interested in landscapes and cultures.

Loading It is the geopark being marketed and promoted at an international level that catches peoples attention and regions like the Wheatbelt would benefit greatly from that. It is something Ms Morrissey, who is now the chair of the Murchison GeoRegion Working Group, hopes the area can achieve through championing its unique geology, biodiversity and culture. It has been proven again and again in other places around the world that when you establish a geopark you link into such a strong network of people willing to travel to see these amazing areas, that you shift your social fabric into a much stronger, happier set of circumstances, she said. Thats where we would like to get to.
In the past week the Australian governments language on China has hardened. Defence Minister Peter Dutton has said a war over Taiwan could not be discounted, that Australia was already under attack in the cyber domain and that he wants to have a more frank discussion with the public about Chinas intentions. Mr Dutton said the Australian governments first priority was continued peace in our region, but warned the country needed to be able to defend its waters to the north and west as a priority. Influential public servant Michael Pezzullo, the Department of Home Affairs secretary, warned the drums of war were beating. However, former prime minister Kevin Rudd has said the escalating rhetoric serves zero national security purpose and risked inflaming tensions with Beijing. Former foreign minister Bob Carr wrote in The Age and Herald that Australian diplomacy ought to be identifying the off-ramps that will avoid this nightmare of war over Taiwan. Peter Dutton, the new Defence Minister, has hardened Canberras rhetoric on China. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen General Findlays briefing, however, was never intended for a public or political audience. Rather, he told dozens of highly trained special forces officers and soldiers that China has game planned to avoid crossing traditional military red lines and was instead waging a more subtle form of attack.

Loading They know that western democracies have peace, and then, when they cross a line, we get really angry. Then we start bombing people, said General Findlay, according to the sources. China said, lets be smarter. Lets just play below the threshold, before it goes to war. Lets achieve things strategically without having war. So, now we have a new dimension. China was on the one hand talking the language of co-operation, where we all have happy families. But, along with the Russia and North Korea and Iran and all the other aligned states, Beijing was competing with Australia in the grey zone. China had focussed on political warfare enabling it to be achieving strategic affects without going kinetic, he said. Political warfare involves a country realising its interests by using a range of covert and overt means short of actual war, including trade levers, intelligence operations, foreign interference, diplomacy, and cyber operations. Kinetic warfare is a military term for when conflict involves lethal force.

China last year imposed more than $20 billion of tariffs on Australia as relations between the two countries worsened, while there was also a wave of cyber attacks on all levels of government and critical infrastructure such as hospitals and state utilities. General Findlay said that to stop war from breaking out Australias military must compete against the coercive constraints imposed on Australia by China. In undertaking its own grey zone missions, Australias aim was to put the adversary at a disadvantage, put us at an advantage and avoid war. General Findlay also said it was the first time since World War II that Australia was facing a peer enemy in China. He said Australias special forces must deal with this challenge while embracing the unprecedented reforms sparked by the military Inspector Generals recent findings that soldiers allegedly committed war crimes in Afghanistan. General Findlay said that in embracing the arduous dual task of dealing with the threat posed by China while simultaneously undertaking major reforms, Australias military should also embrace the advice of British wartime leader Winston Churchill: If you are going through hell, keep going. We have got a cultural and professional transformation that is more significant than anything else that is going to occur in the ADF, General Findlay said.
The president of the Federation of Indian Associations of NSW, Yadu Singh, said he and others were not given any notice of the controls in meetings leading up to the late-night move. Loading We heard about this on Saturday morning and I was alarmed  there was no communication, said Dr Singh, a cardiologist. We were blindsided. Dr Singh said he was not calling the decision racist but knew of others who used the word to describe controls that were not imposed on people returning from the United Kingdom or the United States last year. Im not sure about the language, the timing, the tone and the way it was announced on Friday, late in the night, he said. So some people are saying this sounds discriminatory.

But his counterpart in Victoria, Sury Soni, said he did not believe the jail terms were discriminatory, as there were Australian citizens not from Indian backgrounds who were also now stranded in India and unable to return. We understand its been made with good intentions and to get the situation under control in the next two weeks, he said. The community is quite emotional at this point, so the clear message from us is that we please avoid getting into misinterpreting the situation, and rather see if we can all work together for harmony. Mr Morrisons office responded to the concerns on Monday night by releasing figures showing the scale of the problem among 6670 people who have been through the Howard Springs quarantine facility near Darwin since October 23. Of the 121 cases of COVID-19 in that group, 103 were among people returning from India compared to only two cases from the United Kingdom, one from South Africa, two from France and seven from Germany.

When flights arrived from India between April 15 and 17, the government said, there were 47 coronavirus cases, an infection rate of 13.6 per cent. Health Minister Greg Hunt said serious action had to be taken after a sharp rise in cases from India. Credit:Matt Golding Those decisions are made to protect Australians, to protect against a third wave, to protect against a massive risk to Australia, and made with a heavy heart but without hesitation, he said on Monday afternoon. Infections in quarantine have grown from 14 in February, to 38 in March, and 210 in April, he said. The proportion of those cases coming from India also grew, from 8.8 per cent in February to more than 56 per cent just before the decision was made to halt flights.

A safe rate for infections in hotel quarantine is 2 per cent, according to the health advice to national cabinet, but Australias hotel quarantine infection rate rose to 14 per cent in the middle of April. University of Canberra professor Kim Rubenstein, an expert on citizenship law, said the controls were at the outer reaches of what people should expect from a democratic government. NSW Liberal Senator Concetta Fierravanti-Wells said the move highlighted the problem of ministerial decisions that could not be disallowed by Parliament and did not receive enough scrutiny. I am troubled by the decision to make it illegal for Australians to return home to Australia, she said. Senator Fierravanti-Wells, who chairs the Senate committee that scrutinises delegated legislation and regulation, has previously warned against the growing number of decisions that are exempt from parliamentary scrutiny.

Loading The committee recommended last December that Biosecurity Act decisions such as the Indian ban should be subject to debate and disallowance in Parliament. Foreign Affairs Minister Marise Payne said on Sunday the move was based on health advice while Chief Medical Officer Paul Kelly said on Monday morning it was not his decision to impose the fines and jail terms. There was no advice given in relation to fines or jail terms, thats just how the Biosecurity Act works, he told ABCs Radio National. Professor Kellys letter of advice, however, recommended the move on Friday and spelt out the penalties for breaching Section 477 of the Biosecurity Act including the jail terms and fines.

The letter was not released with the governments press release at midnight on Friday night and only emerged on Monday. Senator Payne and Immigration Minister Alex Hawke held a conference call with Indian community leaders at 11am on Friday but did not mention the potential move, according to those in the meeting. The ban came into effect at 12.01am on Monday and will be reconsidered on May 15. While state governments made no criticism of the move, federal Coalition MPs are urging Mr Morrison and ministers to stop the controls as soon as possible.

There is little doubt that this is an extreme measure and that it is causing significant hardship to the Australian-Indian community, said Dave Sharma, the member for Wentworth in eastern Sydney and a former diplomat who is of Indian heritage. I fully expect these restrictions will only be temporary and that enhanced powers will be used only sparingly and as a last resort. Queensland Liberal MP Julian Simmonds called the decision a tough but the right call but NSW Liberal MP Fiona Martin said she hoped the government could begin repatriation flights out of India as soon as possible. The travel ban and related legal penalties is quite heavy-handed, said Ms Martin, who represents Reid in the inner west of Sydney.

There are a lot of Australians stuck in India whom we should be bringing home as a priority. Loading Queensland Nationals Senator Matt Canavan said the government should repatriate people swiftly in the same way achieved with Australians in Wuhan last year. I dont think we should jail fellow Australians trying to come home, we should be actively trying to help them get out of a circumstance which has obviously gone south very quickly, he said. Opposition leader Anthony Albanese said the penalties on people returning from India was announced without much thought.
Buying a house in Sydney and Melbourne is now tens of thousands of dollars more expensive than it was just a month ago but there are signs the strongest property boom in decades is slowing.

Property prices increased 1.8 per cent nationally in April with every capital city and region recording growth, CoreLogic data released on Monday morning shows. This was down from a three-decade high 2.8 per cent price increase in March.

House prices are still rising but there are signs of a slowing in the market. Credit:Penny Stephens

Sydneys median house price increased to $1,147,352 in April, up from $1,112,671 in March, while Melbournes median house price surged to $869,676 from $859,097 over the same period. This time last year Sydneys median house price was $1,026,418 and Melbournes was $818,806.

The rapid rise in property prices has prompted warnings about housing affordability from economists and MPs. Last week, federal Housing Minister Michael Sukkar said the state governments needed their feet held to the fire to address rising house prices and it was not up to the Commonwealth to fix the issue although he acknowledged it was a problem.
Brussels: The European Unions executive has recommended easing COVID-19 travel restrictions next month to let foreign travellers from more countries enter the bloc, hoping to boost the stricken tourism industry.

Under current restrictions, people from only seven countries, including Australia and Singapore, can enter the EU on holiday, regardless of whether they have been vaccinated but subject to tests or quarantine.

The new proposals from the European Commission still requiring approval by the EUs 27 member states, but would allow in fully vaccinated foreign citizens and those from countries with a good epidemiological situation.

Time to revive tourism industry and for cross-border friendships to rekindle - safely, Commission President Ursula von der Leyen wrote on Twitter.
Wellington: Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said that differences between New Zealand and China are becoming harder to reconcile as Beijings role in the world grows and changes.

In a speech at the China Business Summit in Auckland on Monday, Ardern said there are things on which China and New Zealand do not, cannot, and will not agree, but added these differences need not define their relationship.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said the differences between China and New Zealand are becoming harder to reconcile. Credit:Bloomberg

Managing the relationship is not always going to be easy and there can be no guarantees, Ardern said.

It will not have escaped the attention of anyone here that as Chinas role in the world grows and changes, the differences between our systems  and the interests and values that shape those systems  are becoming harder to reconcile.
Ministry urges localities to halt unnecessary services amidst COVID-19 risk

Local authorities should consider ordering the suspension of unnecessary services like bars, karaoke parlors, discos and game rooms to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the Ministry of Health said on May 2.

In a document sent to municipal and provincial Peoples Committees on the day, the ministry said Vietnam has recorded domestically-transmitted COVID-19 cases in certain localities over the past days, and the coronavirus would further spread.

Coastal Vung Tau city welcomes nearly 100,000 tourists on May 1. (Photo: VNA)



However, many cities and provinces have still turned lax amid the new infections, the ministry said, citing big gatherings in public places like beaches and tourist sites without serious observance of COVID-19 prevention and control measures.



Given this, the ministry asked localities not to organise unnecessary activities with mass gatherings such as festivals and night markets, and seriously implement preventive measures, especially wearing masks at public places.



COVID-19 has become complicated in recent days as more people have tested positive for the SARS-CoV-2 after coming into close contact with a patient in the northern province of Ha Nam.



The 28-year-old man tested positive for the virus after he finished 14 days of mandatory quarantine. He had returned Vietnam from Japan via Da Nang International Airport on April 7. He was quarantined for 14 days in Da Nang and tested negative for coronavirus three times before completing the quarantine period.
Before the official questions came flying at him during a post-practice Zoom session Tuesday afternoon, Matt LaFleur was asked how he was doing. The Green Bay Packers coach didnt hesitate before answering.
Antitrust: Taking on Monopoly Power from the Gilded Age to the Digital Age

Author: Amy Klobuchar

Publisher: Alfred A Knopf



$32.50624Over the last decade, the handful of technology companies that have grown to a gargantuan size have fuelled concerns among lawmakers on both sides of the aisle over the power wielded by these behemoths. Senator Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, chair of the Senate Judiciary subcommittee on antitrust, has championed the effort to revamp antitrust law, the primary weapon we have for combating excessive concentrations of economic might.

A history of antitrust policy may not sound like the most compelling raw material for a page turner. But the book is an impressive work of scholarship, deeply researched  it has over 200 pages of footnotes  highly informative and surprisingly readable in the bargain.

As a good Minnesotan, Ms Klobuchar traces the roots of antitrust to the Midwest, when farmers rebelled at the end of the 19th century against the exploitative practices of the railroads. The movement spread from the Prairie States to Washington, D.C. Many industries at the time were controlled by business combinations known as trusts. There were trusts in petroleum, meatpacking, railroads, sugar, lead, coal, whiskey and tobacco. By restricting competition the trusts not only hurt consumers and workers and damaged the functioning of the capitalist system, they also came to be seen as a threat to American democracy itself. The battle to break them up became a highly visible feature of American political life in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Politicians of both major parties campaigned against monopolies and big business combinations. The Sherman Act of 1890 (enacted with almost unanimous support in both the House and Senate) and the Clayton Act of 1914 remain the primary weapons against misuse of corporate power. In the years from 1901 to 1914 the federal government brought some 120 suits against so-called monopolies, including the well-known suit to break up Standard Oil.

The great virtue of Ms Klobuchars history is that it is a reminder that the way industries are organised and markets allowed to function are not determined by inexorable forces outside our control but are matters of social and political choice.

After 1920, antitrust policy moved from the political hustings to the more subdued setting of the courtroom. It lost much of its moral energy and over the next 50 years enforcement of antitrust laws waxed and waned depending on economic circumstances.

In the early 1980s, a consensus emerged that the dangers of monopoly power had been vastly overstated. The central figure behind this change  and the primary villain in Ms Klobuchars telling of the story  was Robert Bork, the enormously influential legal theorist from Yale, whose nomination to the Supreme Court was rejected by the Senate in 1987. He argued that the governing principle for judging competition should be whether consumers were harmed in some way. It was a doctrine that became a cornerstone of American antitrust policy for the next 30 years.

Borks ideas led to a decline in antitrust enforcement actions and were predictably accompanied by increased concentration within industries. Ms Klobuchar produces much evidence that the ascendancy of this policy coincided with all sorts of negative economic trends: Greater inequality in income and wealth, and a decline in investment and innovation. The difficulty is that during this 30-year period there were so many other dramatic changes at play in the economic environment and in economic policy that it is hard to know how much of the deterioration in economic performance is attributable to reduced antitrust activity. With the recent change in the political mood about big tech, we do seem to be entering a new era of more activist antitrust policy.

Antitrust policy has been dogged by a fundamental dilemma. What to do about private corporations that grow disproportionately large, not through predatory means or by using tactics that are deemed illegal? Take Google. It has come to control about 90 per cent of the market for search activity in part because of the enormous economies of scale associated with networks. Or consider It has grown gigantically by simply being more efficient, providing its customers enormous selection and low prices.

The early advocates of a vigorous antitrust policy like Woodrow Wilson would have favoured breaking up gigantic companies simply because of the dangers that such concentrations of power pose to the foundations of democracy. His modern-day disciples have added another twist by arguing that even if consumers seem to be benefiting in the near term, the harm from excessive size cannot be judged simply by its immediate effects but has to be assessed by its longer-run effects on the vibrancy of competition.

That other great champion of the struggle to tame excessive corporate power, Theodore Roosevelt, despite his great reputation as a trustbuster, in fact grew to doubt the efficacy of promoting competition. He argued that the best counter to the power of big business was the power of big government. Rather than breaking up giant corporations, he advocated regulating them.

Ms Klobuchar has probably exaggerated the adverse consequences of the last 30 years of laissez-faire policy toward corporate power, and the same reasoning causes her to overstate the potency of reversing it. Perhaps she should temper her enthusiasm, evident throughout this book, for Woodrow Wilson and his zeal for a vigorous antitrust policy, and rebalance it with some of Theodore Roosevelts scepticism.

2021 The New York Times News Service
Foodtech giant has decided to move to a 4-day work week for the month of May 2021. The Bengaluru-based firm said in these unprecedented times, understanding that the success of any company is intrinsically linked to the well being (both physical and mental) of its employees

As a mark of respect for the efforts and the month that May can be with the Covid cases escalating, we want to offer a 4 day work week to all of you, said Girish Menon, head of human resources at Swiggy, in an internal mail to employees dated May 1, 2021. Please decide the 4 days that each of you would work and utilize the extra day to take rest, take care of yourself, take care of your family and friends.

has also put together a Covid task force and told employees it can definitely do more with more hands on the deck. Hence, if any of you would like to volunteer and actively help on the break day, youre welcome, said Menon in the letter.

Additionally, has set up a pandemic support mechanism, and an emergency support team to assist employees during this crisis. This includes the Swiggy Shield app and Employee Support Hotline - a Covid-19 Support infrastructure. It helps employees access hospital beds, ICUs (intensive care units), plasma and oxygen cylinders and ambulance support. It also provides other emergency services through Swiggys network of partners, volunteers and healthcare providers.

The policy applies to about 5,000 full-time Swiggy employees spread across the country.

Swiggy is also providing wellness app-based access to consultation, testing support at home and at labs. It is providing online doctor consultation and medical support for employees who are recovering under home quarantine. The facilities include home isolation and quarantine care coverage and reimbursements for all employees. It would also provide hospitalization cover for employees and family.

There is vaccination coverage for employees and family members, and vaccination time off. Employees or their family members, who require quarantine spaces will be given access to temporary facilities with necessary nursing support.

Non-Covid positive employees living with friends on family members who have tested positive will have access to self-quarantine facilities. Swiggy is also providing salary advances, leave encashments and access to loans. There is an early release of salary for the month of May for Grade 1 to 6 employees. These employees will also receive a nutrition support cover if they and/or their family members test positive. After announcing vaccination cover for its delivery partners in March, Swiggy will also roll out similar Covid relief initiatives for them.

Last month, Swiggy raised $800 million from investors led by Falcon Edge, Amansa Capital, Think Investments, Carmignac and Goldman Sachs. The investment took the company's valuation to $5 billion from $3.6 billion, according to the sources.

In March, Swiggy said it is committed to vaccinating its delivery partners by covering 100 per cent of the vaccination cost for its entire fleet of active delivery partners against Covid-19. Present in around 500 cities, Swiggy has the countrys largest active delivery fleet with over 2,00,000 partners. The firm would also cover the loss of pay when the partners take the time off to get vaccinated against
Tower Infrastructure Trust, an infrastructure investment trust (InvIT) owned by Canadian financial powerhouse, Brookfield, is planning to change its name to Data Infrastructure Trust so as to increase the future business possibilities of the Trust.

The InvIT said the Trust would have a broader scope under the name Data which would be more reflective of the overall business profile of the Trust assets in the future, it said in a filing with the stock exchanges.

At the same time, the InvIT which owns 100 per cent equity in Summit Digital Infrastructure Private Limited (SDIPL) formerly known as Reliance Jio Infratel Private Limited, will be converted from a private company to a public limited company.

In December 2019, in order to reduce debt in its books, RILs subsidiary, Reliance Industrial Investments and Holdings Ltd (RIIHL) had inked binding agreements with Brookfield to sell 100 per cent stake in its telecom tower company for Rs 25,215 crore. As per the deal, RIIHL, the sponsor of Tower Infrastructure Trust, had issued units in the trust to Brookfield affiliate, BIF IV Jarvis India and some investors.

After the deal was closed, Brookfield became sponsors of the trust, which, in turn, held 100 per cent stake in the telecom company with 1,30,000 towers across India. RIIHL became the co-sponsor, but did not hold any units. This was the single largest foreign investment in an Indian infrastructure vehicle just prior to the Corona pandemic hit India.

RJIL, a subsidiary of Reliance Industries Limited, is the anchor tenant for all towers owned by SDIPL which has presence in 22 telecom circles. SDIPL has geographically well-distributed portfolio of towers with 22%-28% located in each geography. The company intends to increase its portfolio to 174,451 towers and more than 60% of the towers are fiberised ensuring higher capacity for increased data consumption at higher speeds.
In order to protect lives, industry leaders are supporting a complete lockdown. (CII) President on Monday asked industry to curtail all non-essential economic activity requiring physical presence of employees at the workplace for the next two weeks.

"This is necessary to break the chain of transmission," Kotak said.

Harsh Goenka, chairman of the RPG group, said he supported a complete lockdown wholeheartedly for breaking the chain and protecting lives.

Kotak said should review operations and minimise the use of in-person manpower, limiting it to only critical operations or activities required by law. Several have already announced work from home even as several key cities  Mumbai, Delhi and Bangalore  go through a massive healthcare crisis due to lack of oxygen, doctors and medicines.

"All responsible corporates should strive to protect their employees and ensure that their employee balance sheet remains healthy, Kotak said.

CII and industry are working shoulder to shoulder with the government in tackling the massive tsunami of Covid infections that his hit India and caused much suffering. Industry is lending a helping hand, augmenting critical oxygen supplies and bed capacities. Production capacities of medicines and other medical supplies are being ramped up. CII has been putting its head together with the government and medical experts to work out the best possible way to steer through this crisis.

However, in spite of all efforts, the overall numbers continue to rise. The healthcare system and medical personnel are stretched to the limit and exhausted. Measures to break the chain of transmission are of paramount importance to mitigate human tragedy and loss of lives, alongside augmenting health infrastructure and medical supplies, said Kotak.

In a statement, CII said many auto majors, such as Maruti Suzuki, Hero MotoCorp, JCB India, MG Motor, Honda Motocycle and Scooter India, had taken the lead by halting production temporarily or advancing maintenance schedules in the interest of the safety of their employees. Many service sector organisations like Kotak Mahindra Bank, TCS, Infosys have adopted work from home.

The CII said all must review all critical operations and re-design the workflow to the extent possible to minimise the requirement of physical presence of employees. Strict observance of all Covid-appropriate safety protocols should be ensured for the essential employees at the workplace.

The CII said must make testing available for employees whose presence at the workplace is necessary for critical operations, and make quarantining facilities available for infected employees.

The CII also urged companies to ramp up of employees and, as vaccine availability improves, extend drives to neighbouring communities.

Disclosure: Entities controlled by the Kotak family have a significant shareholding in Business Standard
Pune-based vaccine maker will supply 220 million doses to the Centre, state governments and private hospitals in the next few months, according to the latest numbers given out by the company.

In a statement, Adar Poonawalla, CEO of SII, said on Monday that the firm had received total orders of 260 million doses from the government. Out of that, more than 150 million doses have been supplied. We have also got 100 percent advance of Rs 1,732.5 crore for the next tranche of 110 million doses in the next few months, he said.

In addition, another 110 million doses will be supplied to state governments and private hospitals in the next few months, making it a total of 220 million. In an interview to a channel on April 21, Poonawalla had said, This fresh 110 million doses contract was agreed upon about a month ago and so we are starting to supply that from this month.

He was speaking in the context of the future price to the Centre and state governments.

Poonawalla, who left for the UK recently, said in an interview that he was getting threatening calls from powerful people in India for delivering vaccine.
Average monthly rentals across key High Street markets in the top cities witnessed corrections, as the pandemic wreaked havoc across the country. According to data by Anarock Research, Khan Market, the iconic retail hub in New Delhi, saw average monthly rentals reduce by as much as 8 per cent to 17 per cent in Q1CY21, against Q1CY20.

Likewise, Kala Ghoda, Bandra Linking Road, and Fort in Mumbai also saw retail rentals decline 5-10 per cent during the same period. However, there were few markets that saw an upward trend. For instance, Hyderabad localities such as Gachibowli, Banjara Hills, and Jubilee Hills saw average retail rentals increase in Q1CY21 against Q1CY20. In the previous two quarters, the retail segment seemed to be on the verge of recovery and was gradually inching towards pre-Covid levels in terms of business. However, the second wave has once again crimped this growth, said Pankaj Renjhen, COO and joint managing director, Anarock Retail.


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Florida lawmakers protect spacecraft parts from finders, keepers



May 3, 2021  On its way to a splashdown with four astronauts, SpaceX's Crew Dragon "Resilience" shed some of its parts.



Exterior panels were purposely jettisoned to expose and deploy the parachutes that lowered the capsule to a safe landing in the Gulf of Mexico, off the coast of Panama City, Florida, on Sunday (May 2). The doors, and the drogue chutes covered by one of them, dropped into the water separate from the Dragon while SpaceX focused on recovering the spacecraft and its crew.



Despite the possible appearance the panels were discarded, they remain SpaceX property, as affirmed by the Florida legislature. A bill enrolled on April 26 not only assigns penalties for keeping any found spacecraft parts, but requires all finds be reported to local authorities.



"The recovery of spaceflight debris is an increasingly common issue in Florida. The return of these materials is necessary to evaluate vehicle safety and performance," said State Representative Tyler Sirois, who authored the "Recovery of Spaceflight Assets" legislation.



The bill confirms that commercial spaceflight companies such as SpaceX, along with other entities involved in launching rockets and spacecraft, retain ownership of their hardware, even after the mission is over. It requires that anyone who finds "reasonably identifiable" spacecraft parts report them to local law enforcement and that the authorities then make a "reasonable effort" to notify the hardware's owner.



The legislation also allows the company (or other entity) to enter private property if needed to recover the parts.



Anyone failing to surrender found parts could be charged with "misappropriation of a spaceflight asset," a first-degree misdemeanor, which is punishable by up to a year in prison or a $1,000 fine. Violators could also be ordered to pay restitution to the owner if the hardware is damaged or cannot be recovered.



The bill, which had the support of SpaceX, is now waiting the governor's signature. When enacted, the law will go into effect on July 1, 2021.



"As Florida continues to lead the nation in commercial aerospace, our laws need to evolve with the growing and unique demands of this industry," said Sirois.



Florida is the first state to pass legislation protecting spacecraft debris. Previously, the recovery of spacecraft parts fell under the terms of an international treaty or federal laws addressing the theft of government property, the latter applying if the vehicle belonged to NASA or the military.



The Outer Space Treaty, or the "Treaty on Principles Governing the Activities of States in the Exploration and Use of Outer Space, including the Moon and Other Celestial Bodies," entered into force in 1967. Among its provisions is that parties to the treaty  which includes the United States  retains ownership of its space vehicles "and of their component parts," regardless of where they are found ("in outer space or on a celestial body or by their return to the Earth").



The Outer Space Treaty has led in the past to the return of spaceflight hardware, including commercial rocket fairings, after they were found washed up on or near domestic and foreign shores.



SpaceX lobbied for the passage of the Florida "Spaceflight Assets" law after at least two incidents where Dragon parts were found in the possession of state residents. In January 2020, a group of fishermen off the coast of Daytona Beach came across two drogue chutes and their associated hatch from a SpaceX capsule that was used for an inflight abort test. Eight months later, a different fishing boat in the Gulf of Mexico recovered a panel from the first Crew Dragon to return astronauts from the International Space Station in August 2020.



In at least one of those cases, a panel ended up in the private space memorabilia collection belonging to a SpaceX investor.



The "Recovery of Spaceflight Assets" bill applies to more than just SpaceX or its panels and parachutes. The legislation addresses any "crewed and uncrewed capsules, launch vehicles, parachutes and other landing aids, and any ancillary equipment that was attached to the launch vehicle during launch, orbit, or reentry." Florida residents who locate the parts are instructed to "report the description and location of the spaceflight asset to a law enforcement agency having jurisdiction over the location."



SpaceX's Crew Dragon Resilience is lifted onto its recovery ship in the Gulf of Mexico, off the coast of Panama City, Florida on Sunday, May 2, 2021. The panels covering the capsule's parachutes were ejected in flight and splashed down separately. (NASA/Bill Ingalls)







The parachute cover from SpaceX's Demo-2 Crew Dragon was recovered by a fishing boat in the Gulf of Mexico. (Steve Jurvetson)







Two drogue parachutes and a cover panel from a SpaceX abort test were found by Florida fishermen. (Sea Lover Fishing/YouTube)



 2021 collectSPACE.com All rights reserved.
Riding high on exports, emerged as the largest motorcycle maker in India by sales in April, edging past The maker of the Pulsar and Discover brands sold 348,173 units last month, of which 221,603 units were exported.

Hero MotoCorp, on the other hand, dispatched 339,329 units during the month. A brief shutdown of its plants by Hero, due to the worsening Covid-19 situation, also helped Bajaj take the lead.

Hero had proactively halted the plant operations temporarily in a staggered manner for four days from April 22 to May 1 in view of the rapid escalation in the spread of Covid-19 across the country, it said in a statement on Saturday.

expects the strong momentum in exports to continue in the coming months even as the domestic market reels from the impact of the second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic. A fourth of the companys sales outlets in the country remain shuttered.

The Pune-based company has projected average sales of 200,000-plus units in the overseas markets in the coming months. In FY21, Bajaj Autos income from exports stood at Rs 12,687 crore, with 52 per cent of its volumes exported to over 79 countries.

Mitul Shah, head of research at Reliance Securities, expects domestic two-wheeler sales to remain under pressure. Domestic sales for two-wheeler firms are expected to be subdued, given the localised lockdowns. We expect it to be weaker in May as more states impose lockdowns to curb the spread of the virus, Shah said.

Most two-wheeler makers reported a month-on-month decline in sales in April as large swathes remained locked up.

Amid disruptions in the domestic market, a strong export push will bode well for like Bajaj and TVS Motor, said Shah.

TVS Motor, too, saw its exports surge. The company dispatched 226,193 units during the month, of which 94,807 units were exported  as against 8,134 units in the same month last year. This years volumes, however, are not comparable to last year as India went into a nationwide lockdown for 21 days from March 25, 2020.

Under a plan that gives a renewed focus on overseas business expansion, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, which so far had been solely focusing on the domestic market, saw its exports rise, albeit on a low base. The local arm of the Japanese two-wheeler maker shipped 42,945 units, breaching the 40,000-unit mark for the first time in 36 months.

Yadvinder Singh Guleria, director (sales and marketing), Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, said, Regional lockdowns since the beginning of April have dragged down consumer sentiment considerably. While the need for personal mobility still exists, recovery may be pushed back by a few months as staying safe at home is Indias first priority.

Honda has undertaken a 15-day closure of its plants amid the raging virus.




Batting for "free flow of dialogue" in courts, the Monday said it would neither restrain the media from reporting oral observations made during proceedings in public interest, nor demoralise high courts - "vital pillars of democracy" - by asking them to refrain from raising questions.

The apex court said however that it's order would take into account Election Commission's submission that wanton charges levelled against it by the Madras were unwarranted and would try to strike a balance between two Constitutional bodies.

It termed as too far-fetched the poll panel's plea of restraining media from reporting remarks made in court proceedings.

A bench of Justices D Y Chandrachud and M R Shah reserved its order on the EC appeal against the Madras High Court's "critical" remarks holding it responsible for surge in COVID-19 cases in the country and fastening responsibility on its officials with the murder charge.

It assured the poll panel that the high court's remarks were not meant to "run down" a Constitutional body but may have been made momentarily in the flow of discussions and that's why it was not in the judicial order.

Election Commission is a seasoned constitutional body, entrusted with the responsibility to ensure free and fair election in the country. It should not be rattled by the observations made.

"We cannot say in today's time the media will not report the discussions taking place in the court as it is also in public interest. The discussions that take place in courts are also important as is the order. Therefore, unfolding of the process in the court of law is in public interest," the bench said.

It said that the media is a powerful watchdog of unfolding of the process in court of law and we cannot object to that reporting by media.

Justice Chandrachud said that judges ask questions to elicit response from lawyers and it does not mean that the court is against that person or body.

We have an Indian pattern of arguments in our courts. It's not a monologue that one person will speak and then judges will speak. We have discussions here and there is an aspect of application of mind, the bench said.

Senior advocate Rakesh Dwivedi, appearing for the poll panel said that it is not objecting to the discussions and observations made by the High Courts but it has to be in the context of matter in hand and there should not be any off-the-cuff remarks.

The bench said: Some observations are made in larger public interest. Sometimes it is anguish and sometimes they are made to make a person do the work, he is required to do...some judges are reticent and some judges are verbose.

"We don't want to demoralise our High Courts by asking them not to question as they are vital pillars of democracy. There should be free flow of dialogue. Things are often said in an open dialogue between bar and bench.

Justice Chandrachud said that what he is saying is not to belittle the poll panel and it should not be taken in that context.

Democracy survives when its institutions are strengthened. Dialogue only strengthens the body, he said, adding, We have to protect the judicial sanctity of the process. We have to ensure that judges are independent enough to have their views. We have to ensure that the media reports everything that happens in courts, so that judges conduct proceedings with dignity.

Dwivedi said that such a remark of murder charges against a Constitutional body was unwarranted and such conclusive remarks should not have been made without hearing the poll panel.

The bench said that the poll panel must understand that the media should be able to report everything to create a sense of accountability. Often, the dialogue in court is to create an umbrella of discussions. Normally, questions are asked from what is the subject matter of the case but sometimes dialogue goes beyond the envelope.

The top court noted that the poll panel in its appeal has called the EC a Constitutional body and said that being another such body should not make comments against it.

High Courts may not have powers under Article 142 of the Constitution but they have enough powers under Article 226. They are not district courts. High Courts are doing enormous work and we cannot reduce their sanctity. Not all people can come to the Supreme Court, the bench said.

It added, Power of judicial review has been given to the courts but it does not mean that we are taking over the powers of the Parliament, a sovereign body. It does not mean one organ is bigger than the other. We want each organ of the country to be independent.

The top court observed that nowadays there is electronic media and social media and they are running 24X7 and moreover there is a rush for breaking news and we know what we are saying now is being reported. To contain what we want to ask or say in court will not do justice to the judicial process.

The had, on April 26, castigated the EC for the surge in COVID-19 cases during the second wave of the pandemic, holding it "singularly" responsible for the spread of the viral disease, called it the "the most irresponsible institution" and even said its officials may be booked under murder charges.

(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.)
India on Monday reported a net increase of 63,998 in active cases to take its count to 3,413,642. Indias share of global active cases now stands at 18.24 per cent (one in 5). The country is second among the most affected countries by active cases. On Monday, it added 368,147 cases to take its total caseload to 19,925,604. And, with 3,417 new fatalities, its Covid-19 reached 218,959, or 1.10 per cent of total confirmed infections.

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The Delhi government on Monday launched a mega COVID-19 inoculation exercise for people in the 18-44 age group, who comprise more than half of the city's population, with all the 301 vaccination centres witnessing "100 per cent turnout".

These 301 centres have been established in 76 schools in the city.

Around 92 lakh people are eligible for the jabs in the 18-44 age group. According to the 2011 census, Delhi's population is 1.68 crore.

Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia said all the centres witnessed "100 per cent turnout" on the first day.

"All slots are booked for the next two days," an official said.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal tweeted, "I am glad that the vaccine process for 18+ has started smoothly. It's heartening to see that youngsters are coming out in large nos to get vaccinated. Get your elders vaccinated too. Encourage ur friends and relatives also to get vaccinated."



Sisodia, who visited a vaccination centre in west Vinod Nagar, said people informed him that they did not face any trouble getting vaccinated at the centres.

However, they faced difficulties getting an appointment.

"This is because we have only 4.5 lakh vaccines now, but we will resolve these challenges as we continue to expand our centres," he said.

Sisodia, who is also the nodal minister for COVID-19 management in Delhi, said the city government wants to increase the number of vaccination centres per location to 10.

"Our target is to establish 3,000 such centres in 300 schools, subjected (sic) to the availability of vaccine," he said in a tweet.

"We are in constant touch with companies and will continue to receive more doses," he added.

More than 45,000 beneficiaries in this category can get jabs at the 301 centres in a day, the official said.

The government set up the vaccination centres in schools to accommodate the large number of beneficiaries in this phase, another official said.

Till now, vaccines were being given to those aged above 45 at around 500 centres in the national capital.

Around 60,000 people aged above 45 can be inoculated in the capital every day, officials said.

Pre-registration is mandatory for vaccination in the 18-44 age group, and there are no walk-ins under this category for now, the official said.

While the city's Max Hospital started vaccinating people in the 18-44 age group at limited centres from Saturday, Fortis Healthcare began the exercise on Sunday.

The Delhi government has placed orders for 1.34 crore vaccine doses, which will be delivered over the next three months.

Of these, 67 lakh doses are of Covishield vaccine, which are being procured from the Pune-based Serum Institute of India, officials said.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal had on Thursday said a plan has been formulated to vaccinate all adults against the within the next three months.

He had then said that everybody aged above 18 would be administered COVID-19 vaccines free of cost in Delhi.

"Cumulatively, more than 33 lakh doses have been administered since the initiation of COVID-19 vaccination in Delhi. More than 7 lakh beneficiaries have been given 2 doses," a government official 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.)
Global Pharma major is discussing with the Indian government an expedited approval pathway to make Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine available for use in the country, the company's Chairman and CEO Albert Bourla said on Monday.

Earlier in April, said that it had offered a not-for-profit price for its vaccine for the government immunisation programme in India and it remains committed to continuing engagement with the government to make the vaccine available in India.

" is aware that access to vaccines is critical to ending this pandemic. Unfortunately, our vaccine is not registered in India although our application was submitted months ago. We are currently discussing with the Indian government an expedited approval pathway to make our Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine available for use in the country," Bourla said in a mail sent to Pfizer India employees that he has shared on his LinkedIn post.

Pfizer has earlier said that, during the pandemic phase, it will supply the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 mRNA vaccine only through government contracts.

"Pfizer remains committed to continuing our engagement with the government towards making the Pfizer and BioNTech vaccine available for use in the government's immunisation programme in the country," the company had said in April in email response to PTI.

The Indian government last month allowed emergency use approval of the imported vaccines in India which have been granted emergency approval for restricted use by United States Food and Drug Administration (USFDA), European Medicines Agency (EMA), UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (UK MHRA), Pharmaceuticals and Medical Device Agency (PMDA) Japan or which are listed in WHO (emergency use listing).
There are early signs of plateauing and even a decline in the daily Covid-19 infections in 13 states and Union Territories, including Delhi, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Punjab and Madhya Pradesh, according to the Union Health Ministry. The daily case trajectory in the last two days has come down from over 400,000 to around 3,68,000 while the daily deaths have gone down slightly from over 3,500 to 3,400, government data showed.

Continued efforts of containment have to be made in these states so they can preserve the gains that have been made, Lav Agarwal, joint secretary in the health ministry, said on Monday.

Some 12 districts in Maharashtra have been showing a declining trend in the daily cases for the last 15 days. But the numbers have continued to rise in 23 states including Bihar, Goa, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Kerala. The challenge in terms of increased active cases continues, Agarwal said.

On whether the double mutant strain is more transmissible, Agarwal said, Mutant or no mutant, actions to control Covid remain the same. We cannot afford to be fatigued.

In view of the rising cases, the government has announced that the services of final year MBBS students would be engaged for teleconsultation and monitoring of mild Covid cases. This was among a list of announcements made after Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a review meeting of the human resource situation for tackling the Covid crisis.

The NEET-post graduate exam has also been postponed for at least four months and would not be held before August 31.

The government has also allowed deployment of medical interns for Covid duties under the supervision of their faculties as part of internship.

Medical personnel completing 100 days of Covid duties will be given priority in forthcoming regular government recruitments. Agarwal said that a run-away spread of infection may overwhelm healthcare infrastructure and various core capacities were needed for management of patients. While the government is working towards the supply side approach, it is important to focus on the demand side management in terms of infection spread.

Vacant posts of doctors, nurses, allied professionals and other healthcare staff have to be filled through an accelerated process within 45 days through contractual appointment, the health ministry said.

Advice for mild Covid cases

Chest CT scan for patients with mild symptoms of Covid was not advisable, AIIMS chief Randeep Guleria said. He said one such CT is equal to getting 300 X-Rays and in younger people being exposed to such radiation can increase the risk of cancer in later life. Even in mild cases, some patches will come in the scan but it gets better on its own.

Guleria also said that testing biomarkers through blood samples for mild illness was also not required and should be done in moderate cases in order to avoid over-treatment.

On vaccines for those who have recovered, Guleria said that while the current advice was that such patients need to take both doses, there was a discussion in the scientist community if only one dose would act as a booster shot. The infection itself could be a primer dose...The guideline as of now is that you should take both doses if you have recovered from Covid, he said.




A minister on Monday



said Serum Institute of India's CEO Adar Poonawalla should lodge a police complaint in connection with the alleged threats that he has received, and assured the state government will conduct an in-depth probe into it.

Poonawalla, who has been in the UK on extended stay to evade alleged threats in India over the ever-increasing demand for COVID-19 vaccines, has said he will return in a few days.

In a recent interview to 'The Times', Poonawalla alleged that he had been receiving threats in India and that he and his family left the country for London after unprecedented "pressure and aggression" over the demand of COVID-19 vaccines.

The Pune-based (SII) is producing 'Covishield' - the Oxford/AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine.

"Poonawalla should lodge a complaint giving details of threat and the phone number from where he got the call. We will conduct an in-depth probe into it," Minister of State Home Shamburaje Desai told reporters.

Meanwhile, Congress president Nana Patole urged Poonawalla to return to India and assured that his party will take the responsibility of his security.

"People's lives are important and the vaccine productionshould take place in India only. The Centre has already given him 'Y' category security. More (security) would be given if necessary," he said.

The Congress will also take the responsibility of protecting him, said Patole, whose party shares power in with the Shiv Sena and NCP.

"No one will touch him. He should return and work on vaccine production," the Congress leader said.

However, NCP leader and state Minority Affairs Minister Nawab Malik claimed Poonawalla was responsible for the present situation he is in and that no one was defaming him.

"First, he announces Rs 150 price (per dose of Covishield vaccine) for the central government,Rs 400 for states and Rs 700 for private hospitals. Later, through a tweet he informed that he was reducing the price for states from Rs 400 to Rs 300," Malik said.

This has created suspicion and there are lot of questions in the minds of the people, the minister said.

Earlier, NCP leader and Maharashtra Housing Minister Jitendra Awhad said the country needs to know the truth behind the alleged threats to Poonawalla.

(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 Supreme Court has directed the Centre to formulate within two weeks a national policy on admissions to in the wake of the second wave of COVID-19 and said no patient shall be denied hospitalisation or essential drugs in any state for lack of local residential proof.

A three-member apex court bench, comprising Justice D Y Chandrachud, Justice L Nageswara Rao and Justice Ravindra Bhat also directed the Centre and state governments to notify that any clampdown on information on social media or harassment caused to individuals seeking help on any platform will attract coercive action.

"The Central government and state governments shall notify all chief secretaries, directors general of police, commissioners of police that any clampdown on information on social media or harassment caused to individuals seeking/delivering help on any platform will attract a coercive exercise of jurisdiction by this court.

The registrar (judicial) is also directed to place a copy of this order before all district magistrates in the country," it said in the order uploaded on the SC website late on Sunday night.

The bench, headed by Justice D Y Chandrachud, said till the formulation of a national policy by the Centre on admissions to hospitals, "no patient shall be denied hospitalisation or essential drugs in any state/UT for lack of local residential proof of that state/UT or even in the absence of identity proof."



The top court also directed the Centre to ensure that the deficit in the supply of oxygen to the national capital is rectified before May 3 midnight.

"The Central Government shall, in collaboration with the states, prepare a buffer stock of oxygen for emergency purposes and decentralize the location of the emergency stocks. The emergency stocks shall be created within the next four days and are to be replenished on a day to day basis, in addition to the existing allocation of oxygen supply to the States," the bench said.

It further said that emergency stocks shall be created within the next four days and is to be replenished on a day-to-day basis, in addition to the existing allocation of oxygen supply to the states.

The top court also directed the Centre to revisit its initiatives and protocols, including the availability of oxygen, availability and pricing of vaccines, and availability of essential drugs at affordable prices.

It asked senior advocates Jaideep Gupta and Meenakshi Arora, appointed as amicus curiae, to collate and compile these suggestions submitted by various parties.

The matter is listed for the next hearing on May 10.

The directions were passed in a suo motu case for ensuring essential supplies and services during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The bench has taken up issues such as the projected demand for oxygen in the country at present and in the near future, how the government intends to allocate it to "critically affected" states and its monitoring mechanism to ensure supply.

The Supreme Court had earlier made clear that any attempt to clampdown on the free flow of information on social media, including a call for help from people, would be treated as contempt of the court.

"There should be free flow of information; we should hear voices of citizens. This is a national crisis. There should not be any presumption that the grievances raised on the Internet are always false. Let a strong message be sent to all the DGPs that there should not be any kind of clampdown," the bench had said while reserving its order on April 30.

(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.)
Cautioning the global community against vaccine nationalism at this hour of the COVID pandemic, India on Monday asked the developed nations to share technology and allow free movement of critical components and raw material needed for production of vaccines.

Speaking at the annual meet of the Asian Development Bank (ADB), Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman also underlined the need for a re-look at the Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) agreement in the context of the pandemic.

"Countries will have to be open about sharing vaccine-based technologies. The TRIPS agreement will have to be looked at in the context of the pandemic. There cannot be any more vaccine nationalism, countries will have to be flexible about it," she said.

The TRIPS agreement is a legal pact between all the member nations of the World Trade Organization (WTO). It establishes minimum standards for regulation by national governments of different forms of intellectual property as applied to nationals of other WTO member nations. The agreement has been in force from January 1995.

Participating in a virtual Governors' seminar, Sitharaman said there is a need to have a global multilateral approach to deal with the COVID pandemic.

One critical point in ramping up the production (of COVID vaccine) capacity is access to critical raw materials, she said.

"Although we speak about global value chain and the need for countries to open up trade and also facilitate free movement of raw materials, critical components, critical APIs and so on, we find that the movement of critical raw materials for production of vaccines is finding certain hiccups. We would love that to be sorted out at the earliest so that India can produce," she said.

It is important that critical raw materials are available and made to flow freely, she said, adding, two more vaccines, including a nasal spray are in the offing to treat COVID.

Indian vaccine manufacturers, including Serum Institute of India (SII), faced problems in production last month as Europe and the US banned export of critical raw materials.

Tagging the Twitter handle of the President of the United States, SII CEO Adar Poonawalla had tweeted, "Respected @POTUS, if we are to truly unite in beating this virus, on behalf of the vaccine industry outside the U.S., I humbly request you to lift the embargo of raw material exports out of the U.S. so that vaccine production can ramp up. Your administration has the details."



Ban was lifted post Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the US President Joe Biden discussions on issues related to COVID crisis in India last week.

Modi had also discussed India's initiative at the WTO for a relaxation in the norms of the agreement on TRIPS to ensure quick and affordable access to vaccines and medicines for developing countries.

Noting that India being a pharmaceutical hub, Sitharaman on Monday said, "we have readily and generously extended help for the global community earlier this year and we can see that gesture being returned as a favour now."



She thanked the global community for expressing solidarity with India at this time, when the country is in the grip of the second COVID wave.

Praising the efforts of two vaccine manufacturers including Bharat Biotech, she said they have definitely worked together with the government and kept their profit considerations aside.

They have given vaccines at an affordable price for the government to distribute it freely for all citizens, she added.

Post pandemic, she said, "the future as I said, will have to be based on principles of openness, transparency, fairness, sustainability and inclusiveness".

If you're actually aiming at resilient and sustainable growth particularly coming out of the pandemic, she said, "I think, regional cooperation we have to focus on and multilateral institutions working towards building digital assets, creation of digital assets, and above all, giving education and health digitisation for all."



As regards global climate action, she said, India is committed to all the Paris agreement-based commitments and it is well on a course to fulfill all those commitments.

About efforts of the government to keep the wheels of economy running during the pandemic, Sitharaman said the government extended financial assistance to various sectors.

Observing that MSMEs are the backbone of the economy, she said the government has extended financial assistance in terms of Rs 3 lakh crore loan guarantee to help them amid the pandemic.

(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.)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen on Monday



exchanged views on the COVID-19 situation in India and the European Union, a statement said.

India's ongoing efforts to contain the pandemic's second wave was discussed.

Modi expressed his appreciation of the EU and its member states for mobilising quick support for India's fight against the pandemic.

They noted that the India-EU strategic partnership was witnessing a renewed momentum since the last summit in July, it said, adding that the leaders agreed that the forthcoming India-EU Leaders' Meeting on May 8 in virtual format was an important opportunity to provide renewed momentum to their already multi-faceted relationship.

"The India-EU Leaders' Meeting will be the first meeting in the EU+27 format and reflects the shared ambition of both sides for further strengthening the India-EU Strategic Partnership," the statement 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.)
I was so excited to get my COVID-19 vaccine in mid-April. As a remote student, I was unable to get vaccinated at the clinics on campus and had been scouring local pharmacies for appointments. I finally managed to book an appointment at a grocery store, and I was every bit as nervous as I was
As India battles a deadly second wave of and the need for immunisation intensifies, healthcare tech firm is aiming to vaccinate over 10 million Indians. It has announced Corporate Suraksha, a vaccination programme for companies across the country. The registrations are now open for corporates to enlist their employees and their family members for the inoculation. Additionally, corporates can use the same link to register for Practos wellness plans. As part of this, employees can get access to online doctor consultations across over 22 specialities, among other health benefits.

The country is battling a deadly second phase of the viral outbreak, and immunising as many people as possible is the only way out of it. Blanket vaccination is critical, said Dr Alexander Kuruvilla, chief healthcare strategy officer,



The government is constantly working on expanding the list of Covid-19 vaccination centres, and is extending its full support to make sure that the program is carried out quickly and efficiently, he said.

However, there is a worrying surge in Covid-19 cases and it has been reported that there is a shortage of vaccines across the country. Practo didnt reveal the details about the time period of its vaccination programme or if there is enough stock available for vaccines. The company said the time period varies for every company or community. It also depends on the location and the number of employees.

Practo aims to roll out the programme with the help of thousands of hospitals and healthcare professionals, which are part of its network.

Over 500 corporates (about a million Indians) have expressed interest in joining the program in the first phase. Practo will be setting up camps and working with its strong network of hospitals, vaccinators, and supply chain companies among others in the healthcare ecosystem, to initiate the drive. In the coming days, vaccination programs will be run at hospitals, while special camps will be set up at corporate offices in over 30 cities across the nation.

Practo which is backed by investors such as Sequoia, CapitalG and Tencent is valued at around $904 million, according to data platform Tracxn. It is soon expected to become a unicorn or a startup valued at over $1 billion.

Additionally, Practo will also be expanding this programme to housing societies, apartment complexes, and other such communities. Following the registration process, Practo will reach out to the respective owners and share details about administering the vaccines, appointment schedules, and the location where employees can get the jab.

Over the next few months, the company plans to scale this to over 1,000 corporates and 10 million Indians.

In addition to this vaccination program, the company also offers a comprehensive health and wellness plan to corporate employees. As part of this employees can get premium 24*7 access to over 25,000 verified doctors for instant online consultations across more than 22 specialties, medicine delivery, and medical tests services at-home services. Over 150 corporates like L&T Financial Services, Marico, Hexaware Technologies, Tata Realty, Denave India and Telus International have availed these plans for their employees.

As per government directions, all individuals are required to be vaccinated twice - with a gap of six-eight weeks between the doses. They also need to continuously monitor their health during this period for possible side effects like fever and/or cold. In case they experience any discomfort, they must consult a doctor.

Practo is not the only tech firm or startup rolling out such programmes. E-pharmacy chain PharmEasy aims to facilitate the vaccination of 30 million persons over the next few quarters with camps and centres for housing societies, old-age homes, and companies. It claims to have received a soft commitment from 5 million individuals and 1,200 organisations for the drive. The firm will be partnering clinics and hospitals, which will be providing nurses and administrative staff.

NoBrokerHOOD  the visitor, society, and payments management app by NoBroker.com  has announced that it will be organizing vaccination drives across societies in Bengaluru, Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Delhi-NCR. Vaccination at doorstep started with two societies in Bangalore on April 24, 2021 and will continue through the coming months.

ekincare, a health benefits platform has formed a partnership with online medicine startup 1mg to drive out Covid-19 vaccination. More than 500 corporates will benefit from the vaccination drives.ekincare and 1mg are partnering up to provide on-site vaccinations and medical assistance to all their client corporates going forward.
The Union Government has asked to make all out efforts to lift its allocated oxygen, using all the means at its disposal, to ensure the available to it is distributed rationally and in a transparent manner, with no diversion or leakage.

Expressing anguish over the recent Covid deaths in due to lack of oxygen, cabinet secretary in a meeting held to review the Covid preparedness in the national capital said needs to ramp up medical infrastructure at the earliest to cater to the increasing demand for Covid beds, ICUs and ventilators.

He also asked the Delhi government to make all relevant information on Covid beds, medicines and other facilities available on websites so that people in need can approach the right place.

Gauba said a helpline serviced through a dedicated and well-staffed call centre should be created at the front end, to provide relevant clinical information.

The Delhi government recently said that it has been allocated 490 tonnes against a total demand of 976 tonnes. Chief minister Arvind Kejriwal in a letter to industrialists said, Delhi does not produce any oxygen, and as youre aware, Delhi currently faces an acute shortage of I would be grateful if you could provide the Delhi government with along with cryogenic tankers for its movement.



On the issue of adequate medical and healthcare human resources, Gauba asked the Delhi Government to create flexible procedures to engage the services of retired medical professionals.

Cabinet Secretary also asked for further augmentation of testing facilities and timely availability of test results. The health ministry has also stressed the need to restart the earlier practice of transparent electronic displays, at each hospital site, that will show the number of beds available in that facility for COVID patients.

Setting up oxygen audit Committees in various hospitals and medical facilities, was also one of the suggestions made in the review meeting.

V K Paul, member-health, Niti Aayog, also present in the meeting said that smaller nursing homes and hospitals should be roped in to ramp up health infrastructure for Covid patients and Covid Care Centres be opened in hotels.

Paul also said that the Delhi Medical Association be requested to offer around 50 doctors, who can voluntarily provide medical consultation to COVID-19 patients on use of medicines, oxygen concentrators and other medical facilities.

The meeting was also attended by chief secretary, Delhi, senior officials of the Health Ministry, and Commissioners of Municipal Corporations of Delhi and Chairman, New Delhi Medical Corporation.
As the second wave of continues to engulf several parts of the country, the Centre on Monday said some states are showing very early signs of plateauing in daily new Covid-19 cases, while some remain a cause of concern.

Addressing a news briefing, Joint Secretary in the Health Ministry Lav Agarwal said 13 states, including Delhi, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra and Punjab, are showing early signs of plateauing, while states like Bihar, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Tripura and West Bengal are showing an increasing trend in daily cases.

Amid a shortage of medical oxygen in the country, he said the government is exploring the feasibility of converting existing nitrogen plants to produce oxygen.

"There are some early signs of plateauing or decrease in new Covid-19 cases in some states," Agarwal said.

Chhattisgarh, where 15,583 cases were reported on April 29, recorded 14,087 fresh cases on May 2. Similar was the case with Delhi, Daman and Diu, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Ladakh, Lakshadweep, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Punjab, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand.

With regards to districts, Agarwal said Durg, Gariyaband, Raipur, Rajnandgaon in Chhattisgarh; Chhindwara, Guna, Shajapur in Madhya Pradesh, Leh in Ladakh; Nirmal in Telangana are showing signs of decline in cases in the last 15 days. Agarwal said 12 districts of Maharashtra are also showing signs of a decline since the last 15 days.

"However, these are very early signals and this is too early to analyse the situation. It is important to have continued efforts of containment at district and state level so that we can preserve these gains and reduce cases further," he said.

"There are some causes of concern," Agarwal cautioned.

He said there are 12 states where active cases are more than a lakh. They are Maharashtra, Gujarat, Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu. There are seven states where the active cases are in the range of 50,000 to 1 lakh cases and 17 states where the active cases are more than 50,000.

There are 22 states where the positivity rate is more than 15 per cent and in nine states the positivity rate is between 5 to 15 per cent and five states it is less than five per cent.

He said states and union territories like Andaman and Nicobar, Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Goa, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Karnataka, Kerala, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Odisha, Pudcherry, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Tripura and West Bengal are showing an increasing trend in daily cases.

"Today, it is important to analyse the cases at micro-level and continue with the efforts in the areas from where the cases are being reported," he said.

On vaccine coverage, he said so far 12.07 crore (first dose for 10.53 crore people and second dose for 1.54 crore) above the age of 45 years have been vaccinated.

AIIMS Director Dr Randeep Guleria warned against rushing for CT scans in cases of mild Covid-19, saying there are side effects and it can end up doing more harm than good.

"One CT scan is equivalent to 300 to 400 chest X-rays. According to data, repeated CT scans in younger age groups increases the risk of cancer in later life. Exposing yourself to radiation again and again may cause damage. So there is no point in doing CT scan in mild COVID-19 cases if oxygen saturation is normal," 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.)
Sweden plans to donate 1 million doses of AstraZeneca vaccines to India via the U.N.-backed COVAX, an initiative devised to give countries access to vaccines regardless of their wealth.

The Scandinavian country's International Development Cooperation Minister Per Olsson Fridh announced it Monday on Swedish broadcaster SVT, adding we see how the pandemic is raging around the world. People are dying, poverty is spreading, and children are still not back at school.

We need to do everything we can to face this pandemic and fight it across the world.

The donation will have no impact on the rollout in Sweden which has decided to only administer the AstraZeneca shots to people 65 and over.

The country's vaccine coordinator Richard Bergstrom said there are enough spare vaccines that Swedes can give away, adding This is just a million ... we actually have another 4 or 5 million more of Astra Zeneca's vaccine that we can share later.

(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 UK on Sunday (local time) announced that it will be sending additional 1,000 ventilators from the UK's surplus supply to Indian hospitals as part of its commitment to support India's fight against the second wave of

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that India's fight against increasing cases will be reinforced by the new UK government support announcement of additional ventilators in addition to 200 ventilators, 495 oxygen concentrators and three oxygen generation units the UK sent to India last week.

"The terrible images we have seen in India in recent weeks are all the more powerful because of the close and enduring connection between the people of the UK and India," said Johnson.

"I am deeply moved by the surge of support the British people have provided to the people of India and am pleased the UK Government has been able to play our part in providing life-saving assistance. The UK will always be there for India in its time of need," added Johnson.

Chief Medical Officer Chris Whitty and Chief Scientific Adviser Patrick Vallance have also spoken to their Indian counterparts to provide advice, insight and expertise to the Indian healthcare system as it deals with the world's worse surge in COVID-19 levels.

NHS England is also establishing a clinical advisory group led by Chief People Officer Prerana Isaar to support India's Covid response. The group will work with Indian institutions such as the All-India Institute of Medical Sciences to share experience on managing COVID-19 outbreaks.

The group will include researchers in public and global health, alongside nursing and other health professionals who have experience of the Indian healthcare system.

"This support will help urgently meet some of India's acute needs, particularly oxygen for patients. We are determined to help our Indian friends in their hour of need. We need to all work together to defeat COVID-19. No one is safe until we are all safe," said Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab.

On Tuesday, Johnson will hold a virtual meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The Summit will be an important opportunity to elevate multi-faceted strategic ties and enhance cooperation on regional and global issues of mutual interest. Both leaders will also discuss COVID-19 cooperation and the global efforts to fight the pandemic.

(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.)
Spokesperson of Bharatiya Janata Party in Manoj Mishra died due to COVID-19 in the wee hours on Monday.

He was admitted to a hospital in Kanpur after he had tested positive for COVID-19.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath condoled his demise.

" Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath ji has expressed deep grief on the demise of Dr Manoj Mishra, senior spokesperson of the Bharatiya Janata Party," read a statement issued by the Chief Minister's office.

The Chief Minister also expressed condolences to the bereaved families, it 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.)
We had obtained an EPCG authorisation in March 2016, i.e. in the year 2015-16. The stipulation of annual average exports was based on exports made during 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2014-15. In 2015-16, we could not achieve even the annual average exports, as the authorisation was issued in March 2016 and the capital goods were imported under the authorisation in the year 2016-17. Can we approach the EPCG committee to re-fix the annual average on the basis of exports made during 2013-14, 2014-15 and 2015-16?

You can approach the EPCG committee with your request, but I think you will have to be very lucky to get a favourable decision from the committee.

We have received an order from a German party for supply of certain goods to a party in India. Full payment is received in advance in foreign currency. Do we have to charge GST on such supply or is the supply zero-rated?

As the goods do not leave the country or go to a SEZ unit or developer, the supply cannot be treated as exports and so, cannot be zero-rated. The supply will attract GST.

For our new project, we intend to import certain goods falling under Chapters 84, 85, 39 and 90 of the Customs Tariff. Are we required to pay Agriculture Infrastructure and Development Cess (AIDC) on such goods?

No. S.No.17 of the notification no.11/2021-Cus dated February 1, 2021, fully exempts AIDC on all goods other than those mentioned at S.Nos.1 to 16 of that notification. Goods falling under Chapters 84, 85, 39 and 90 of the Customs Tariff are not covered in any of the entries mentioned at S.Nos.1 to 16 of that notification. So, they will get covered under the said S.No.17 and thus, fully exempted from AIDC.

The government has exempted customs duty and health cess on import of oxygen, oxygen-related equipment and Covid-19 vaccines, up to July 31. Will they be exempted from IGST also?

No. The notification no.28/2021-Cus dated April 24, 2021 does not exempt IGST leviable on such goods.

We are recognised as Authorised Economic Operators-Tier 1 (AEO-T1). On our imports from Malaysia, we claimed a preferential rate of duty under the ASEAN FTA. The Customs have initiated verification under the Customs (Administration of Rules of Origin under Trade Agreements) Rules, 2020. Our subsequent imports from the same source under claim of preferential duty rates are being assessed provisionally. Our Customs Broker says that the Customs are insisting on bank guarantee for the differential duty on such consignments although we, as AEO-T1, are required to give bank guarantee for only 50 per cent in terms of CBEC Circular no.33/3016-Cus dated July 22, 2016. Are the Customs correct?

CBIC Circular no.42/2020-Cus dated September 29, 2020, prescribes bank guarantee for 100 per cent of differential duty for all classes of importers, including Authorised Economic Operators (all tiers), whenever the importer requests provisional assessment in cases where verification is initiated under the said Rules.
The government and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) are considering relief measures for businesses as India continues to battle the deadly second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Both are looking into the demands made by small businesses and other industries to provide some relief to them amid the Covid crisis, said a senior government official. Some stress is building up in sectors and there are others like hospitality that have been hit the hardest, and we are aware of that, the official said. The government and the RBI both are exploring how to tackle ...
Ahead of the virtual India-European Union (EU) leaders meeting on 8 May, President of the Ursula von der Leyen and Prime Minister exchanged views on the existing Covid-19 in India and EU as well as Indias ongoing effort to contain the spread of the infection.

An official statement from the Prime Ministers Office (PMO) said that Modi expressed his appreciation of the EU and its member states for mobilizing rapid support for Indias fight against the second wave of covid-19.

Good call with the Prime Minister in preparation of the EU-India Summit. Team Europe stands in deep solidarity with our democratic partner India. We are providing rapid support and are delivering assistance to fight Covid-19, Ursula von der Leyen said in a tweet on Monday.

There is clear momentum to strengthen our strategic relations on trade, digital, climate change & multilateralism. I'm encouraged by the prospect of intensifying our trade & investment relations. This would tap into a huge potential to the benefit of our businesses & citizens, she said.

The India-EU Leaders meeting will be the first meeting in the EU+27 format. It reflects the shared ambition of both sides for further strengthening the India-EU Strategic Partnership, the PMO said in a statement.

In the past, commerce and industry minister Piyush Goyal had said that India is keen to advance negotiations towards an agreement between India and EU to pave way for a mutually beneficial outcome on investment facilitation. Finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman had also said that the resumption of formal negotiations on the India-EU trade deal in May will strengthen ties between the trading partners.
steamrolled the election war machine as she powered the TMC to a two thirds majority in the assembly elections and secured a third straight term in office in West Bengal, the longest-standing opposition fortress in the country.

The mercurial leader, however, lost by 1956 votes in Nandigram to former protege-turned- adversary Suvendu Adhikari.

The TMC won 208 seats and is leading in five more polling 47.94 per cent votes till 3.30 am, while the clinched 76 seats and is leading in one, bagging 38.13 per cent votes.

Elections were held in 292 constituencies of the 294- member assembly. Polling was countermanded in two constituencies after candidates fell victim to a raging COVID-19 pandemic.

"It's a victory for Bengal's people...it's Banglar joy' (Bengal's victory)," Banerjee told TMC workers, while her party approached the Election Commission with demand to order recounting of votes in Nandigram which was rejected.

Though the BJP failed in its effort to dislodge Banerjee from power, it's for the first time that it will be the main opposition party in the state assembly, rising from a measly three seats in 2016 to at least 76 now.

It is also for the first time that the Left and the Congress, which ruled the state for decades, will have no representation.

In the run up to the elections, the BJP had Banerjee on the defensive by aggressively campaigning against corruption allegedly involving TMC leaders and the 'cut money' (bribery) culture affecting everyday life of people.

The party also tried to gain traction with its Hindutva pitch as slogans of "Jai Shri Ram" reverberated at rally venues and leaders tried to openly woo the Dalit Matua and Rajbongshi communities.

Just when she appeared to be losing ground, Banerjee shifted gear and coined the slogan 'Bangla nijer meyekei chay' (Bengal wants her daughter). Banerjee raking up the insider- outsider debate was part of the strategy to appeal to Bengali subnationalism, something hitherto alien to politics.

Banerjee's appeal to 'Bangaliana' (Bengaliness) cultural identity, which transcends divisions of caste and religion, seemed to have worked in her favour.

The 'Duare Sarkar' (government at your doorstep) programme under which benefits of a host of welfare schemes, including scheduled caste certificates, were delivered to the homes of the beneficiaries, also boosted her standing among the poor.

The government's UN award winning 'Kanyashree' programme, where money is transferred to the bank accounts of girls so they could study further and early marriages could be prevented, was highlighted during the campaign.

The strategy to extend the 'Swasthya Sathi' health insurance scheme to the entire population in December 2000 was welcomed by all. The scheme was launched by Banerjee in 2016. It is a basic health cover for secondary and tertiary care up to Rs five lakh per annum for every family.

Months ahead of the elections, the Banerjee government transferred Rs 10,000 each to 9.5 lakh students in class 12 government schools to help them buy computer tablets and mobile phones for online classes. But, for many families, it came as relief amid economic hardships triggered by the lockdown.

She promised that women heads of 1.6 crore households will receive basic income benefit under which women of general category will get Rs 500 monthly allowance and those of Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe Rs 1,000. She said it was pocket money for the women who otherwise have to depend on their husbands.

"The chief minister remains extremely popular with women, the campaign stressing pro-women initiatives went down well....their (women's) high turnout helped," said Prof. Ranabir Samaddar, well-known political scientist and former head of Maulana Azad Institute of Asian Studies, Kolkata.

Another factor that went in her favour was the near total consolidation of Muslim votes in favour of the TMC.

Parties such as the AIMIM and Abbas Siddiqui's ISF, which were seen as having the potential to deal a blow to the TMC's minority support base, failed to make an impression as the minorities threw their weight behind

The prime minister's repeated taunts of "Didi, O Didi" in his speeches, too, did not go down well with voters in a state where women traditionally enjoy a high social and economic status and are a major vote bank for the TMC.

The clincher for Banerjee came when she mounted an aggressive assault in the last three phases of polling on Prime Minister Modi for leaving India unprepared for the second COVID wave.

She went on to blame an influx of "outsiders brought by the BJP" for the spread of the pandemic in the state, and the saffron party suddenly found itself trying to defend itself against charges of mismanagement of the COVID-19 crisis.

The victory for Banerjee, by far the biggest mass leader since the redoubtable Jyoti Basu who ruled with an iron fist from 1977 to 2000, will not only help fortify her position in the state but also enhance her standing at the national level where voices from the opposition are getting feeble with time.

Speculation is rife already that Banerjee, who reached out to several national and regional parties opposed to the BJP a few months ago, will now try to forge a common front with them to mount a challenge to the saffron party in the 2024 general elections.

(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 leading her party to a stunning victory in West Bengal, Chief Minister, Mamata Banerjee, was unanimously elected leader of the Trinamool Congress legislative party on Monday and will take oath on May 5.

Senior leader Partha Chatterjee said that Banerjee would take oath on May 5 and the newly elected MLAs would be sworn in on May 6.

Banerjee met Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar in the evening. The governor later tweeted: taking note of communication @AITCOfficial electing @MamataOfficial as leader of 17th Legislative Assembly have invited her to take oath of office of Chief Minister on May 5 at 10:45am at Raj Bhawan. In view of current Covid situation function will be with limited audience.

Banerjee lost her seat  Nandigram  to her former protege turned adversary, Suvendu Adhikari by 1,956 votes and would have to get re-elected in six months.

On Nandigram results, she said on Monday, How can the Election Commission reverse the decision after announcing it. We will move court.



She said that the returning officer messaged someone that if he allowed recounting in Nandigram then his life would be in danger.

However, Banerjee said that the oath-taking ceremony would be low-key in the view of the pandemic.

Banerjees swearing-in of 2016 was anything but that, with politicians across party lines in attendance  from Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, then Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav, National Conference's Farooq Abdullah and RJD's Lalu Prasad. Arun Jaitley, then Union Finance Minister, and Babul Supriyo, then Union Minister of State for Urban Development, were also there. This time, too, Banerjee was congratulated by several political leaders like  Maharashtra Chief Minister, Uddhav Thackeray, Punjab Chief Minister, Amrinder Singh, apart from Arvind Kejriwal and Akhilesh Yadav.

But Banerjee is not yet chalking out plans for the general elections of 2024. I am just a street fighter. I can boost up people so that we can fight against But one person cant do everything alone. I think all together we can fight the battle for 2024. But lets fight Covid first, she said in response to questions around the elections of 2024.

She has made Covid management her immediate priority. Banerjee said that she had already asked for 3 crore doses from the Centre  1 crore for the private sector and the balance for the state on payment basis. However, she added that the central government should consider giving vaccines for free. We are requesting the Centre to sanction ~30,000 crore for universal vaccination.



Banerjee also appealed to everyone to maintain peace as post-poll violence was reported in many parts of Bengal. The MHA (ministry of home affairs) has asked West Bengal government for a report on post-election violence targeting opposition political workers in the state, tweeted spokesperson, MHA.

West Bengal was in the throes of widespread violence on Monday that allegedly left several workers dead and injured in clashes, and shops being looted, prompting the Union Home ministry to seek a factual report from the state governent on incidents of attack on opposition workers.

claimed at least six of its workers and supporters, including a woman, were killed in attacks the party blamed on the

Stalin to chair DMK MLAs meeting today



The DMK on Monday announced convening a meeting of the party's newly elected MLAs on May 4, where party chief M K Stalin is likely to be elected their Legislature Party Leader.

The DMK chief, who led his party to a comfortable win against the ruling AIADMK after a ten-year stint in the opposition, is now set to take over as Chief Minister.

Date of swearing-in of new LDF govt soon



Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Monday said a date on the swearing-in of the new LDF cabinet and proposed new faces would be decided after a meeting of the Left front.

BJP to send central observers to Assam



The BJP is likely to finalise its choice of chief ministerial nominee for Assam in a day or two as internal consultation within the party has begun amid a suspense over whether it will continue with incumbent CM Sarbananda Sonowal or bring in a new face.
: Chief Minister



who led theruling CPI(M)-headed LDF in Kerala to a resounding victory in the April 6 Assembly polls, on Monday resigned from the post, ahead of the new ministry formation.

Vijayan drove to the Raj Bhavan around noon and submitted his resignation letter to Governor Arif Mohammed Khan, sources said.

Vijayan has been asked to continue as chief minister till the new government is sworn in,Raj Bhavan source said.

Scripting history, the LDF retained power in Kerala, bucking the over four decade-long trend of oscillating between Communist and Congress-led fronts alternately.

LDF won 99 of the total 140 seats, while the opposition had to settle for the remaining 41 and BJP drew a blank.

(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.)
TMC supremo will



meet West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar at 7 pm on Monday and stake claim to form the government, after her party's stupendous win in the assembly elections, Raj Bhavan sources said.

The ruling TMC has won 212 of the 292 seats where polling was held in eight phases in March and April, and is leading in one where counting is still in progress. The BJP emerged as the main opposition party with 77 seats under its belt.

It is for the second time in succession that Banerjee powered her party to two thirds majority in the state assembly.

"Tomorrow at 7 PM Hon'ble CM will be calling on me at Raj Bhavan," Governor Dhankhar had tweeted Sunday night.

(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 Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on Monday fined Rs 3 crore for violating prudential norms on the operation of its investment portfolio, the central bank said in a statement.

The central bank said it found contravention of norms in the matter of "shifting of securities from one category to another".

The did not mention when did the violation happen, or the exact nature of it.

The action, the said, was based on the deficiencies in regulatory compliance and was not intended to pronounce upon the validity of any transaction or agreement entered into by the bank with its customers.
Private sector lender has pegged its capital requirement at Rs 7,500 crore to support credit growth in the current financial year.

This is the requirement after keeping in mind that the capital buffer is 3 per cent above the regulatory needs.

The bank will not like its Common Equity Tier I (CET1) Ratio to fall below 11 per cent, Prashant Kumar, its managing director (MD) and chief executive, told Business Standard.

He said the CET1 ratio was comfortable at 11.2 per cent (in March 2021), despite accelerated provisioning. The bank expects to grow while maintaining comfortable capital buffers.

Recoveries are expected to outpace potential slippages. The lender is targeting cash recoveries of about Rs 5,000 crore.

Kumar said the moment the bank starts to generate Return On Assets (RoA) of 1 per cent, internal generation will be sufficient to meet its requirements. is working to reach an RoA of 1 per cent by FY23.

As long as the bank does not reach 1 per cent, it is going to meet capital requirements by using reserves. Its

RoA was -5.7 per cent as of March 31, 2021.

The bank's capital adequacy ratio stood at 17.5 per cent at the end of March 2021. It was 19.6 per cent in December 2020. The current capital base is adequate to support business growth in FY22, Kumar said.

The bank, once controlled by Rana Kapoor, was restructured under a rescue package wherein a group of Indian lenders led by State Bank of India pumped in equity capital.

In the second round, the lender raised Rs 15,000 crore equity capital via a follow-on public offer in July 2020 to recapitalise the bank.
Prime Minister has defended banning Australian citizens from returning from India, amid criticism by human rights groups that the governments threat to punish breaches with fines of roughly $50,000 and five years imprisonment is heavy-handed.

Were all just working to do whats right for the health interests of Australians, Morrison said in a radio interview on Monday, adding that he implemented the ban on the basis of advice from his health officials. Were deeply, deeply concerned about the humanitarian crisis in India.

As infections surge in countries such as India, where daily cases topped 400,000 for the first time on Saturday, there are fears Australias quarantine system will buckle with more returning travelers testing positive. While the nation has come close to eliminating local transmission of the virus by closing its border to non-residents -- other than a new travel bubble with New Zealand -- occasional cases leak into the community from quarantine hotels, triggering localized lockdowns.

While on Tuesday joined nations including the U.S., U.K., France and Canada in blocking flights from India, on Saturday it went further. Amid reports people in India were using flights from other countries to enter Australia, Morrisons government banned citizens currently in India from entering.





ALSO READ: Australians to face 5-yr jail or hefty fine if they return home from India

The block, to last until at least May 15, still allowed people to fly in through a third country until Saturday, when the new measure announcing a full ban closed that loophole.

As of late March, there were 36,000 Australian citizens stranded overseas and seeking to come home. Australias Indian diaspora is one of its most rapidly growing ethnic groups. The 1996 Census reported 77,551 India-born people in the country -- by the latest survey in 2016, that had grown to 455,385 people.

No racism



According to the Australian Human Rights Commission, the extraordinary ban and threat of criminal sanctions raises serious concerns.

The need for such restrictions must be publicly justified, it said in a statement on Saturday. The government must show that these measures are not discriminatory and the only suitable way of dealing with the threat to public health.

Foreign Affairs Minister Marise Payne on Sunday denied the decision was motivated by racism.

The decision which has been made under the Biosecurity Act on the basis of the advice of the chief medical officer is a temporary pause on returns, Payne said, according to the Guardian. The burden that has placed on the health systems in the states and territories was significant, she said.





ALSO READ: World Bank welcomes US, France assistance to help India fight Covid-19

The prime minister on Monday played down the chances of using law to punish returning Australians from India. He pointed to Australias humanitarian aid to its Quad security alliance partner, which includes sending more than 500 ventilators, 1 million surgical masks and other medical equipment to India.

I understand the measures have strong sanctions, he said. I can assure people that they will be used appropriately and responsibly in these circumstances.

(With assistance from Tim Smith.)
Archegos, which was run by former hedge fund manager Bill Hwang, borrowed tens of billions of dollars from at least nine global banks to speculate on volatile stocks. The lenders have collectively lost more than $10 billion in the fallout.

According to a report by the Financial Times, despite extending billions of dollars of credit to Archegos, made just $17.5 million from the relationship last year. The low level of fees and high risk exposure have caused concern among the board and senior executives, who are investigating the arrangement, according to two people with knowledge of the process.

The banks management is particularly alarmed after being told that Hwang was not a private banking client of the group, suggesting there was little incentive to pursue his prime brokerage business, the people told FT. According to the news article, also demanded a margin of only 10 percent for the equity swaps it traded with Archegos and allowed the family office 10-times leverage on some transactions, according to people familiar with the trades and first reported by Risk.net.
An and were reported at a petrochemical plant in the Qom province of on Sunday.

Two firefighters were seriously injured and two of the trucks battling the flames caught and were destroyed at Shokuhieh Industrial Town, according to the Iranian Fars News Agency, reported The Jerusalem Post.

Some 150 firefighters and 20 firefighting vehicles were deployed to extinguish the large fire. A number of explosions were reported amid the fire.

A spokesman for the local fire department told Fars that the fire had been prevented from reaching nearby tanks which would have caused a "very large accident" if they had caught fire.

Last year, a series of explosions and fires hit industrial sites across Iran, including a number of petrochemical plants.

Iranian officials referred to most of the cases as incidents or accidents, although some reports have claimed that at least some of the incidents involved foul play, reported The Jerusalem Post.

(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.)
Four parents from Mexico and Central America who were among thousands of deported without their children under the Trump administrations controversial family separation policy will be allowed to join their children in the United States this week, U.S. officials said on Sunday.

The parents, who are from Honduras, Guatemala and Mexico, will be the first families to reunite in the United States since the Biden administration began taking steps to unravel the 2018 policy that attempted to deter families from trying to enter the country by separating children and parents.

Another 30 are expected to be allowed into the country in 30 to 60 days to reunite with their children, who like most have been living with relatives in the United States, according to two sources familiar with the administrations plans.

They are children who were 3 years old at the time of separation. They are teenagers who have had to live without their parent during their most formative years, Alejandro Mayorkas, the homeland security secretary, said in announcing the impending arrivals on Sunday.

The four women scheduled to cross the border in Texas and California this week are among parents of some 5,500 children known to have been separated under the zero-tolerance policy officially introduced by former President Donald J. Trump in spring 2018. While most families have been reunited in recent years, more than 1,000 remain apart, mainly because a parent was removed from the United States.

Mr. Mayorkas said that he could not provide details about the families because of privacy considerations, saying only that two of the mothers had been separated from their sons in late 2017, before the Trump administration had extended the policy across the entire southwestern border.

Immigrant advocates and lawyers welcomed the decision to bring a handful of parents to the United States but said that more must be done to address the harm inflicted by the policy.

We are pleased the Biden administration has now taken its first steps to address the harm caused by the Trump administrations barbaric family separation practice and thrilled for the four families who will be reunited this week, said Lee Gelernt, lead counsel in an ongoing class-action lawsuit that the American Civil Liberties Union brought against the policy in 2018.

But we certainly do not intend to take a victory lap at this point. It is not enough for these families to be reunited, he said.

Mr. Gelernts team, which is negotiating with the Biden administration to settle the lawsuit, has demanded financial compensation, mental health services and legal permanent residency for all separated families, among other things.

The family separation policy was a key step in the Trump administrations moves to crack down on unauthorized immigration. The goal was to deliver a powerful deterrence to those hoping to come to the United States, a formidable roadblock that affected even families who may have been legally entitled to asylum from persecution in their home countries.

The policy was first made public with a memo in April 2018. Later it surfaced that families had been separated as early as 2017 as part of a pilot program conducted near El Paso. All told, about 5,500 children were separated from their parents.

Under the measure, Border Patrol agents criminally charged parents with illegally entering the United States, imprisoned them and placed their children in government-licensed shelters around the country. Images and audio of children weeping after being forcibly removed from their parents drew widespread condemnation.

In June 2018, a federal judge in California ordered the government to rescind the policy and promptly reunify families, saying that the practice shocks the conscience and violated the Constitution.

Most families were reunited within months. However about 1,000 families remained separated because a parent had been deported, and an estimated 645 parents  in the United States or abroad  still had not been contacted by the time Mr. Trump left office.

President Biden vowed from the beginning of his presidency to make reuniting migrant families a top priority.

Within weeks of taking office, he signed a series of executive orders intended to roll back Mr. Trumps most stringent anti- immigration policies. A central piece of his early agenda was an interagency task force, led by Mr. Mayorkas, to identify and reunite all migrant families separated at the border by the previous administration.

It has been a mammoth undertaking. Contact information for many parents is outdated or unavailable, and some parents have disappeared or prefer not to be found out of fear. The task force has managed to find about 200 out of the 645 remaining parents, and it recently reported that it is reviewing 5,600 additional files from early 2017 that could contain evidence of more separations.

One of the things is, we dont know yet where those kids are. Were trying like hell to figure out what happened, Mr. Biden said last week in an interview with NBC News.

Its almost like being a sleuth, and were still continuing to try like hell to find out where they are, he said.

Last year, a group of nine deported parents were allowed to enter the United States to rejoin their children after the federal judge in the class-action lawsuit, Dana Sabraw of the Federal District Court in San Diego, ordered their return. About a dozen managed to return with the help of private lawyers.

But these efforts faced strong resistance from the Trump administration.

Even with a court order, bringing back parents was vigorously resisted at every stage, said Linda Dakin-Grimm, a Los Angeles lawyer who represented a Guatemalan father who returned last year. The man had been separated from his 12-year-old daughter.

She said that the Biden administrations decision to allow deported parents into the country signaled the beginning of a new way thats important. But there remains a huge lift to be accomplished.

Mr. Mayorkas did not reveal when additional parents would be allowed into the United States to join their children but said that the arrivals this week would be the first of many.

We are accomplishing reunifications without delay, he said.

Michelle Brane, a veteran immigrant-rights advocate serving as executive director of the Biden administration task force, said her team has been combing through records, often incomplete, to piece together and review cases.

In addition to demands for legal residency and monetary compensation, some advocacy groups are calling on the Biden administration to consider filing civil lawsuits or even criminal charges against officials in the Trump White House who were behind either the design or implementation of the family separation policy. When asked about this on Sunday, Mr. Mayorkas said that the Justice Department was part of the reunification task force, but he did not commit to pursue investigations. We have not excluded accountability, but our focus right now is on the reunification of the families, he said.

Parents arriving this week will be allowed to remain in the country at least temporarily on humanitarian parole.

Lawyers familiar with the process said that the parents would be allowed to remain in the country for at least a few years, or until longer-term solutions, like green cards, are explored. Generally, people who enter the country are entitled to apply for asylum within a year of arriving in the country.
OPEC's share of India's fell to the lowest in at least two decades in the year to the end of March as overall purchases by Asia's third largest economy fell to a six-year low, data obtained from industry and trade sources showed.

Total crude imports by the world's third-biggest oil importer fell to 3.97 million barrels per day (bpd) in the 2021 fiscal year to March 31, down 11.8% from a year earlier, the data showed.

India bought more U.S. and Canadian oil at the expense of that from Africa and the Middle East, reducing purchases from members of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries to around 2.86 million barrels per day and squeezing the group's share of imports to 72% from around 80% previously.

That is the lowest share since at least the 2001/02 fiscal year, before which crude import data is not available.

India's refiners are diversifying purchases to boost margins, having upgraded plants to process cheaper tougher crude grades, but refinery runs were hit as the pandemic curbed fuel consumption.

The country's annual fuel demand in 2020/21 fell for the for the first time in at least 23 years, according to government data released last month, hitting its lowest since 2016/2017.

The share of Middle East producers rose to about 62% in the 2020/21 year from 60% in the previous year as refiners took committed volumes under annual oil contracts, the data showed.

U.S. and Canadian oil accounted for about 7% and 1.3% respectively of India's imports compared to 4.5% and 0.60% a year earlier.

The United States emerged as the fifth biggest supplier to India, up two places from the 2019/20 year.

Iraq remained India's top oil supplier followed by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Nigeria replaced Venezuela as the fourth biggest supplier.

In March, India imported 4.39 million bpd, 12% more than in February as refineries ramped up output, the data showed. However that was still a drop of around 0.5% from March 2020.

Iraq was the top supplier for the month, followed by Saudi Arabia, which pushed the U.S into fourth place behind the United Arab Emirates.

(Reporting by Nidhi Verma; Editing by Kirsten Donovan)
is turning to multiple Chinese firms to manufacture the Sputnik V in an effort to speed up production as demand soars for its shot.

has announced three deals totaling 260 million doses with Chinese vaccine companies in recent weeks.

It's a decision that could mean quicker access to a shot for countries in Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa that have ordered Russia's vaccine, as the US and the European Union focus mainly on domestic vaccination needs.

Earlier criticism about Russia's vaccine have been largely quieted by data published in the British medical journal The Lancet that said large-scale testing showed it to be safe, with an efficacy rate of 91 per cent.

Yet, experts have questioned whether can fulfill its pledge to countries across the world. While pledging hundreds of millions of doses, it has only delivered a fraction.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has said demand for Sputnik V significantly exceeds Russia's domestic production capacity.

To boost production, the Russian Direct Investment Fund, which bankrolled Sputnik V, has signed agreements with multiple drug makers in other countries, such as India, South Korea, Brazil, Serbia, Turkey, Italy and There are few indications, however, that manufacturers abroad, except for those in Belarus and Kazakhstan, have made any large amounts of the vaccine so far.

Airfinity, a London-based science analytics company, estimates Russia agreed to supply some 630 million doses of Sputnik V to over 100 countries, with only 11.5 million doses exported so far.

RDIF declined to disclose how many doses are going to other countries. Through April 27, less than 27 million two-dose sets of Sputnik V have been reportedly produced in Russia.

The Russian Direct Investment Fund, which has been in charge of cooperation for Sputnik V, said in April it would produce 100 million doses in collaboration with Hualan Biological Bacterin Inc., in addition to an earlier deal announced in March for 60 million doses with Shenzhen Yuanxin Gene tech Co.

The two deals are in addition to a deal announced last November with Tibet Rhodiola Pharmaceutical Holding Co, which had paid USD 9 million to manufacture and sell the Sputnik V vaccine in

RDIF said in April the terms of the deal were for 100 million doses with a subsidiary company belonging to Tibet Rhodiola.

Russia is very ambitious and unlikely to meet their full targets, said Rasmus Bech Hansen, founder and CEO of Airfinity. Working with to produce Sputnik V could be a win-win situation for both Russia and China, he added.

In recent years, Chinese vaccine companies have turned from largely making products for use domestically to supplying the global market, with individual firms gaining WHO preapproval for specific vaccines seen as a seal of quality.

With the pandemic, Chinese vaccine companies have exported hundreds of millions of doses abroad.

Chinese vaccine makers have been quick to expand capacity and say they can meet China's domestic need by the end of the year.

This is an acknowledgment of the Chinese vaccine manufacturers who can produce at volume, said Helen Chen, head of pharmaceuticals LEK Consulting, strategy consultancy firm in Shanghai, in an email.

However, none of the three Chinese companies have yet to start manufacturing Sputnik V.

Tibet Rhodiola started constructing a factory in Shanghai at the end of last year and expects production to start in September, the company said at an annual meeting for investors last month.

Tibet Rhodiola's chairman Chen Dalin also said that after the successful technology transfer, they will start with an order of 80 million doses to sell back to Russia.

An employee at the company declined to transfer a phone call request to the company's media department for comment.

The timeline for the newest deals are also unclear. Hualan Bio was among the 10 largest vaccines manufacturers in in 2019. Phone calls to Hualan Bio went unanswered.

A spokeswoman for Shenzhen Yuanxing declined to say when the company will start production but said their order would not be for sale within China. RDIF had said the production will start this month.

In spite of the delays, Russia's vaccine diplomacy has made gains.

From the outset, Russia, the first country to approve a coronavirus vaccine, aimed to distribute it globally. Within weeks of giving Sputnik V regulatory approval, RDIF started actively marketing it abroad, announcing multiple deals to supply the shot to other countries.

It is so far winning the public relations battle, analysts said in a new report examining Russia and China's vaccine diplomacy from the Economist Intelligence Unit.

Russia has been able to build stronger diplomatic ties and in areas where it hasn't been able to, before, said Imogen Page-Jarrett, an analyst at EIU.

They have this window of opportunity while the US, EU and India are focusing on domestic and the rest of the world is crying out for a vaccine supply.

(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.)
Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, director-general of the World Health Organization, plans to run for a second five-year term as the head of the agency, Stat News reported on Monday, citing a person familiar with the matter.

Tedros, as he is widely known, has been the public face of the WHOs efforts to grapple with the Covid-19 pandemic ever since the new SARS-CoV-2 virus emerged in the Chinese city of Wuhan in late 2019.

In 2017, Ethiopias Tedros became the first African to head the Geneva-based UN agency and made universal health care coverage his priority. A spokesman for said it could not comment on potential nominees. WHOs 194 member states may propose candidates until September, whose names are sent in sealed envelopes to the Governing Board chair  ahead of the election next year.






The incumbent West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday declared the journalists as COVID warriors while urging the Centre for free universal vaccination across the country.

Briefing the mediapersons, the chief minister said, "I declare all the journalists as COVID warrior. You work taking your lives at risk. We have lost so many journalists due to COVID. The COVID management is my priority. There is a shortage of vaccine supply. Approximately 65 per cent of vaccines being produced in India were already sent overseas. Still, we are vaccinating 50,000 people a day. Till now, we have administered more than 1.5 crore vaccine doses."

Mamata said the Centre should provide the COVID vaccine for free to every citizen.

"We have demanded 3 crore vaccine doses from the Centre. I feel the vaccine should be provided free to the 140 crore people of India. I request the Centre to sanction Rs 30,000 crore for a vaccine program for all throughout the country. I believe Rs 30,000 crore does not matter to the central government. If a portion of the money that they spent in the election was invested for COVID vaccine then the universal vaccination would have already been done," she stated.

She further alleged that the central government is doing partiality in sending COVID vaccines and medical oxygen.

"I got to know that they are sending maximum vaccine and oxygen to 2-3 states. I believe every state should get them in priority. In Gujarat, the vaccine is provided at BJP party offices," she said.

Asked about whether she is looking forward to the politics considering the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Mamata said, "I am a street fighter. It will be a collective effort. I am in touch with other political parties for a united battle. But, first, my priority is to fight the COVID situation. Chief Minister, Prime Minister...nothing matters. It is the people that matter."

The chief minister said the oath-taking ceremony will be held on low profile keeping the pandemic in mind. She also informed several party leaders have wished her for the landslide victory.

"Arvind Kejriwal, Uddhav Thackeray, Captain Amarinder Singh, Bhupinder Singh Hooda ji, Rajnikanth ji, Omar Abdullah and others called and wished me. The people of Bengal have stopped the destructive force," Mamata said.

Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress won 213 seats in the just concluded West Bengal assembly elections. The Bharatiya Janata Party garnered 77 seats in the 294-seat state assembly. However, elections for two seats in Murshidabad are postponed due to the demise of candidates due to COVID.

(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 had obtained an EPCG authorisation in March 2016, i.e. in the year 2015-16. The stipulation of annual average exports was based on exports made in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2014-15. In 2015-16, we could not achieve even the annual average exports, as the authorisation was issued in March 2016 and the capital goods were imported under the authorisation in the year 2016-17. Can we approach the EPCG committee to re-fix the annual average on the basis of exports made in 2013-14, 2014-15 and 2015-16?



You can approach the EPCG committee with your request, but I think you will have to be very lucky to get a favourable decision from the committee.

We have received an order from a German party for supply of certain goods to a party in India. Full payment is received in advance in foreign currency. Do we have to charge GST on such supply or is the supply zero-rated?



As the goods do not leave the country or go to a SEZ unit or developer, the supply cannot be treated as exports and so, cannot be zero-rated. The supply will attract GST.

For our new project, we intend to import certain goods falling under Chapters 84, 85, 39 and 90 of the Customs Tariff. Are we required to pay Agriculture Infrastructure and Development Cess (AIDC) on such goods?



No. S.No.17 of the notification no.11/2021-Cus dated February 1, 2021, fully exempts AIDC on all goods other than those mentioned at S.Nos.1 to 16 of that notification. Goods falling under Chapters 84, 85, 39 and 90 of the Customs Tariff are not covered in any of the entries mentioned at S.Nos.1 to 16 of that notification. So, they will get covered under the said S.No.17 and thus, fully exempted from AIDC.

The government has exempted customs duty and health cess on import of oxygen, oxygen-related equipment and Covid-19 vaccines, up to July 31. Will they be exempted from also?



No. The notification no.28/2021-Cus dated April 24, 2021 does not exempt leviable on such goods.

We are recognised as Authorised Economic Operators-Tier 1 (AEO-T1). On our imports from Malaysia, we claimed preferential rate of duty under the ASEAN FTA. The Customs have initiated verification under the Customs (Administration of Rules of Origin under Trade Agreements) Rules, 2020. Our subsequent imports from the same source under claim of preferential duty rates are being assessed provisionally. Our Customs Broker says that the Customs are insisting on bank guarantee for the differential duty on such consignments although we, as AEO-T1, are required to give bank guarantee for only 50 per cent in terms of CBEC Circular no.33/3016-Cus dated July 22, 2016. Are the Customs correct?



The CBIC Circular no.42/2020-Cus dated September 29, 2020 prescribes bank guarantee for 100 per cent of differential duty for all classes of importers, including AEOs (all tiers), whenever the importer requests provisional assessment in cases where verification is initiated under the said Rules.

Business Standard invites readers queries related to excise, VAT and exim policy. You can write to us at smechat@bsmail.in
By Stephen Nellis

SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) - Epic Games faces an uphill legal battle against Inc in an antitrust trial starting Monday, and a defeat for the maker of "Fortnite" could make it harder for U.S. government regulators to pursue a similar case against the iPhone maker, legal experts said.

But win or lose at the trial, Epic, which has pursued an aggressive public relations campaign against alongside its court pleadings, may have already accomplished a major goal: Drawing squarely into the global debate over whether and how massive technology companies should be regulated.

Apple has mostly succeeded in staying out of the regulatory crosshairs by arguing that the iPhone is a niche product in a smartphone world dominated by Google's Android operating system. But that argument has become harder to sustain with the number of iPhone users now exceeding 1 billion.

Epic alleges Apple has such a strong lock on those customers that the app store constitutes a distinct market for software developers over which Apple has monopoly power. Apple is abusing that power, Epic argues, by forcing developers to use Apple's in-app payment systems - which charge commissions of up to 30% - and to submit to app-review guidelines the gaming company says discriminate against products that compete with Apple's own.

"It's not a super-strong suit - I don't think they are likely to win," said Rebecca Haw Allensworth, a law professor at Vanderbilt Law School. "But it has already achieved a lot of its purpose, which is drawing attention to some of Apple's practices that many developers see as abusive."

UPHILL BATTLE

Epic's arguments draw on major antitrust cases against Microsoft, Eastman Kodak and American Express, but apply those precedents in new ways that have not been tested in U.S. courts, legal experts said.

For example, in arguing that iPhones are a software market unto themselves, Epic relies partly on a 1992 U.S. Supreme Court decision that rejected efforts by Kodak to force owners of its copying machines to use Kodak repair services.

Spencer Waller, a competition law professor at the Loyola University Chicago School of Law, said the Kodak decision has had mixed success in subsequent cases.

"Plaintiffs are often unsuccessful because courts read Kodak narrowly at times," Waller said.

Epic also faces hurdles in its contention that Apple's in-app payment commissions are too high at 30% and could be as much as 10 times lower if market forces prevailed. American courts have been reluctant to dive into setting specific rates, in large part because unlike Europe, the prevailing interpretation of U.S. antitrust law does not consider a dominant firm charging high prices to be anticompetitive in itself.

Apple argues that whatever dominant position it may have in mobile software is an outgrowth of its creation of both the iPhone and a curated App Store that makes consumer comfortable.

"If you obtained a monopoly legitimately, you're allowed to charge high prices," said Randal Picker, a professor at the University of Chicago Law School.

Regardless of who wins at the trial expected to last three weeks before Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers in Oakland, California, the case is all-but-certain to be appealed to the U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, which last year reinforced the notion that dominant firms can charge high prices in a case involving Qualcomm Inc.

"Anticompetitive behavior is illegal under federal antitrust law. Hypercompetitive behavior is not," Circuit Judge Consuelo Callahan wrote in the court's opinion.

A federal antitrust official, speaking anonymously because the official was not authorized to speak to the media, said that an Epic loss would dim the chances of the government pursuing a similar lawsuit against Apple.

BREWING ANTITRUST DEBATE

Epic's suit has ramped up pressure on Apple in the court of public opinion at a time when the iPhone maker's business practices are facing fresh scrutiny around the world.

The U.S. Department of Justice is probing the company's practices, Reuters has reported, and regulators in the United Kingdom and Australia have opened probes or called for regulation.

European Union regulators last week accused Apple of distorting competition in the music streaming market, siding with Spotify Technology in the zone's first major anti-competition charge against Apple.

Epic advertisements decrying Apple for taking such a big cut of revenue are landing aside those headlines.

"The public can understand these issues, and in many ways understand them better than these judges who have never played a game in their life," said Thomas Horton, a professor at the University of South Dakota School of Law.

The biggest threat to Apple's App Store is not lawsuits, but rather new laws regulating digital platforms, said Joel Mitnick, a partner at Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft and a former U.S. Federal Trade Commission trial lawyer.

European lawmakers have already proposed legislation that could require Apple to allow developers to use their own payment systems, and consensus for new regulations is building in the United States as well.

Mitnick noted that concern about the power of big tech companies was bipartisan.

"If it were me, I would be looking at ways in which I could influence what might be inevitable changes to the rules under which (Apple) are going to operate," he said.

(Reporting by Stephen Nellis in San Francisco; Additional reporting by Paresh Dave in Oakland, California; Editing by Jonathan Weber and Lisa Shumaker)

(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.)
Under its latest lockdown strategy, the Punjab government has announced that those entering the state via air, rail or road will now be required to furnish a Covid-19 negative report till May 15. The state government has also ordered the closure of cinema halls, bars, and gyms as part of Covid-19 restriction measures. The state government has also prohibited dine-in restaurants as part of the added curbs announced to control the rising number of Covid-19 graphs in the state. Notably, the state government already has imposed a night curfew in the state from 6 pm till 5 am on weekdays and weekend lockdown from 6 pm on Friday till 5 am on Monday.

The Punjab home department, while issuing these directions to all deputy commissioners and district police chiefs, said all shops selling non-essential items will remain closed in the state till May 15. Shops selling essential items, including medicines, milk, bred, vegetable, fruits, dairy and poultry items, will be allowed to function so that people don't face any inconvenience, NDTV reported.

On the vehicular movement, the state government has announced that not more than two people will be allowed to travel in a car at a time. No pillion rider will be allowed on scooter or bike, except for those belonging to the same family.

All government offices and banks will remain operational under 50 percent staff capacity, while there will be no curbs on those involved in Covid-19 management. The state government has also authorised deputy commissioners to draft services of any official on Covid duty.

Also read: COVID-19: SC asks Centre to consider fixing ceiling price for drugs

For weddings, cremations and funerals, not more than 10 people will be allowed at a time. Religious places have been kept open but they'll have to close at 6 pm everyday. The government has issued strict instructions to religious places to avoid overcrowding.

The state government is also running a campaign to conduct RTPCR-testing of street vendors, and they have been directed to ensure social distancing at places like mandis or vegetable markets. There is a total ban on political gathering as well. The state government has also made an appeal to all the farmer unions and religious leaders to not hold any social gathering amid rising number of cases.

Also read: Complete lockdown in Haryana from May 3 for 7 days

Buses carrying passengers can't fill buses at more than 50 per cent capacity. All education institutions will be closed but teaching and non-teaching staff should attend duty, says the order. All private offices, however, have been told to work from home only. The government has formed a strategy to set up small containment zones in areas seeing higher numbers of Covid-19 cases. It has decided to postpone all recruitment exams until further orders.

The state government has also said that action will be taken against all those who'll be found hoarding oxygen. No government functions, including inauguration and laying of foundation, will be allowed during the lockdown period. However, these functions can only be held after the permission of the deputy commissioner.

A record single-day spike of 157 COVID-19 fatalities and 7,327 new cases pushed Punjab's death toll due to the disease to 9,317 and infection tally to 3,85,270, according to a medical bulletin said on Sunday. With this, the number of active cases rose to 60,108 from 58,229. Of the new fatalities, 18 deaths were recorded in Bathinda, 17 in Ludhiana, 15 in Amritsar, 12 in Sangrur and 11 in Gurdaspur, the bulletin said.

Also read: Centre, state govts should consider imposing lockdowns, banning super spreader events to curb COVID-19 spread: SC
Indian-American billionaire businessman Vinod Khosla pledged $10 million for the supply of medical oxygen to hospitals in India.

This is in continuation with the Sun Microsystems co-founder's efforts to fund hospitals for oxygen supplies amid a surge in COVID cases in the country.

Taking to Twitter on Sunday, he said there was a need to save lives as further delay may end up in more deaths.

"For @GiveIndia this isn't enough. They've received requests for 20,000 oxygen concentrators, 15,000 cylinders, 500 ICU beds, 100 ventilators, 10,000-beds COVID centres with requests coming from non-profits & hospitals all across India every day. We need to do a lot more urgently, Khosla said.

"The Khosla Family is adding $10 million to @GiveIndia to it's previous commitment as a match and hoping others will join in this urgent need," Khosla said.

India is struggling with a second wave of the pandemic with more than 3,00,000 new coronavirus cases being reported daily and hospitals in several states reeling under a shortage of medical oxygen and beds.

Also read: Mastercard donates $8.9 million to install 2,000 portable beds in India

Also read: Oxygen crisis: Anand Mahindra rolls out 'Oxygen on Wheels' initiative
The Union Education Ministry has asked all centrally-funded educational institutions to postpone their offline examinations scheduled for May. The decision is likely to affect entrance examinations that were to be conducted for admissions to IITs, NITs, IIITs and central universities (CUs).

In a letter to all such educational institutions, Higher Education Secretary Amit Khare urged to delay the offline examinations in May. He further clarified that online examinations may continue as planned.

"The institutions have been further advised to ensure that if anyone in the institution needs any assistance it should be provided immediate possible help so that he/she comes out of the distress at the earliest. All Institutions have to encourage eligible persons to go for vaccination and ensure that everyone follows COVID-19 appropriate behaviour to remain safe," the Ministry of Education stated.

Centre will review the COVID-19 situation on June 1, 2021 and then take a decision on future schedule for these examinations.

ALSO READ: NEET-PG exam postponed for 4 months, medical interns can be deployed for Covid duty

Earlier today, the central government postponed NEET-PG exam for four months and allowed medical interns to be deployed in COVID-19 management duties under the supervision of their faculty.

"A decision was taken to postpone NEET-PG for at least 4 months and the exam will not be held before 31st August 2021. Students will also be given at least one month of time after announcement of exam before it is conducted. This will make a large number of qualified doctors available for COVID duties," the government stated.

The government has already cancelled CBSE class 10 board exams, whereas CBSE class 12 board exams have been postponed. The latter were scheduled to begin from May 4. Class 12 students have been calling for cancelling the examination altogether in view of the rising COVID-19 cases in the second wave of the pandemic in India.

ALSO READ: Students call for cancellation of Class 12 boards; '#cancel12thboardexams2021' persists on Twitter
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said on Monday that countries must share vaccine-based technologies with each other. The FM said that there is no space for vaccine nationalism. She also said that the Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) agreement must be looked at amid the ravaging coronavirus pandemic.

"Countries will have to be open about sharing vaccine-based technologies. The TRIPS agreement will have to be looked at in the context of the pandemic. There cannot be any more vaccine nationalism, countries will have to be flexible about it," she said at the annual meet of the Asian Development Bank (ADB). The TRIPS agreement is a legal pact between the member nations of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) that establishes minimum standards for regulation by national governments of different forms of intellectual property. The agreement has been in force from January 1995.

Sitharaman, during the virtual seminar, said that there is a need to have a global multilateral approach to deal with the pandemic. "The future, as I said, will have to be based on principles of openness, transparency, fairness, sustainability and inclusiveness," said Sitharaman about the post-pandemic world.

Talking about the government's efforts to keep the wheels of the economy running during the pandemic, Sitharaman said that the government extended financial assistance to various sectors. She called MSMEs the backbone of the economy and said that the government has extended financial assistance in terms of Rs 3 lakh crore loan guarantee to help them.

As regards global climate action, she said, India is committed to all the Paris agreement-based commitments and it is well on a course to fulfill all those commitments.

Also read: Received orders for 26 crore COVID-19 vaccine doses from Centre: Adar Poonawalla

Also read: 'No lockdown; division of country into zones': Lancet task force suggests measures to fight COVID-19
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will hold a virtual meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday to agree on a "huge range" of commitments to deepen cooperation between the two countries on areas like the coronavirus pandemic.

The British government will send 1,000 more ventilators from its surplus supply to Indian hospitals. This will be in addition to 200 ventilators, 495 oxygen concentrators and three oxygen generation units the UK has announced as part of its assistance package last week.

Apart from providing medical supplies, England's Chief Medical Officer Chris Whitty and Chief Scientific Advisor Patrick Vallance have spoken to their Indian counterparts for providing advice, insight and expertise.

Also read: Russia sends over 22 tonnes of medical supplies to help India battle COVID-19 wave

The National Health Service (NHS) will establish a clinical advisory group led by NHS England Chief People Officer Prerana Issar to support India's COVID-19 response. This group, which will include researchers in global and public health alongside nurses and other health professionals, will work with institutions such as the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS).

Corporates in the UK have also stepped in to help India tide through the second COVID-19 wave. The British Asian Trust (BAT) has issued an 'Oxygen for India' emergency appeal aimed at raising funds for oxygen concentrators that can be rapidly deployed to Indian hospitals. The appeal, backed by the Prince of Wales, has raised $13.82 million so far. Virgin Atlantic also sent 200 boxes of oxygen concentrators to Delhi with the help of Khalsa Aid.

Boris Johnson said, "The UK will always be there for India in its time of need."

Johnson added, "The terrible images we have seen in India in recent weeks are all the more powerful because of the close and enduring connection between the people of the UK and India. I am deeply moved by the surge of support the British people have provided to the people of India and am pleased the UK government has been able to play our part in providing life-saving assistance."

Also read: COVID-19 crisis: India gets essential medical supplies from France

According to a Downing Street statement, "India has also provided support to the UK throughout the coronavirus pandemic. As the 'pharmacy of the world' the country has kept its borders open to supply the UK with vital medicine and PPE (personal protective equipment)- exporting over 11 million face masks and 3 million packets of paracetamol over the course of 2020."

Edited by Mehak Agarwal; with PTI inputs
Delhi has sought the help of the Indian Army to set up, operationalise and run some COVID-19 health centres. This plea for help comes as Delhi grapples with an unprecedented increase in the number of cases and deaths with citizens running from pillar to post to arrange for oxygen and medical essentials for their loved ones.

"Since the entire health infrastructure machinery is overwhelmed with the management of the existing hospitals and the upcoming Covid hospitals, it will be a timely help to the people of Delhi if the ministry of defence, with the considerable resources at its command, is tasked with the responsibility to provide and man the additional Covid health facilities as per the current projections," wrote Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia to the defence ministry.

He thanked the Centre for increasing Delhi's oxygen supply and for the efforts of DRDO, ITBP. Sisodia urged the ministry to provide cryogenic tankers for the transportation of liquid medical oxygen. The Deputy CM said that the Delhi government with help from the Centre and other state governments is augmenting the oxygen transport infrastructure in the national capital.

The Deputy CM said that Delhi needs the Army's help in procuring 40,000 D Type medical oxygen cylinders and requested the ministry to provide medical and paramedical teams to increase medical manpower in Delhi.

The Delhi High Court asked the Centre to submit its reply to Delhi's request.

A petition was filed in the court seeking directions for handing over the management of oxygen in the national capital to the Army. "The issue of oxygen supply and distribution needs to be handed over to the Armed forces. Nobody else is able to handle it. It is just not happening," said an advocate to the court.

Senior Advocate Rahul Mehra, appearing for the Delhi government, told the court that Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia had already written to the Defence Ministry.

Also read: Delhi gets 1st oxygen plant at Commonwealth Games village's Covid care centre

Also read: Centre, state govts should consider lockdowns, ban super spreader events: SC
Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee is slated to take oath as West Bengal Chief Minister on Wednesday, i.e., May 5. Banerjee will take oath as the Chief Minister of West Bengal for the third time, having done so before in 2011 and 2016.

West Bengal minister and senior TMC leader Partha Chatterjee confirmed that Banerjee will take oath as Chief Minister on May 5.

TMC has emerged victorious in the West Bengal legislative assembly elections 21, clearing the way for Mamata Banerjee to enjoy a third term in office. On Monday, she was unanimously elected as the leader of the TMC Legislative Council at a party meeting in Kolkata.

Mamata Banerjee cabinet ministers will be sworn in on May 6 by Pro-term speaker Subrata Mukherjee, according to PTI. Biman Banerjee will soon be made the Speaker of the West Bengal legislative assembly. Banerjee is expected to meet the West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar at 7:00 pm on Monday. She will stake her claim for forming the government in West Bengal as TMC has won a clear majority in the latest state assembly elections.

The ruling TMC won 212 out of 292 seats in the West Bengal legislative assembly election 2021, coming back to power with an overwhelming majority. While the BJP has emerged as the primary opposition in the state with 77 seats won by its candidates. This is the second time that TMC has had a two-thirds majority in West Bengal.

Even though her party won the election, Mamata Banerjee herself lost the seat she was contesting from. The battle for the Nandigram constituency was won by BJP's Sivendu Adhikari with a 1,957-vote lead over Banerjee. TMC had requested a recount of votes for the Nandigram seat, but the plea was turned down by the Election Commission of India.

(Edited by Mohammad Haaris Beg)

ALSO READ: West Bengal election results: Mamata Banerjee concedes Nandigram as counting continues

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Even as the central government has asked pharmaceutical companies to ramp up the production of Remdesivir injection due to a surge in demand from COVID-19 patients, several state governments are tightening the scrutiny over its sales to arrest hoarding and black marketing of the medicine.

In a recent decision, the Delhi government has asked its drug inspectors to be stationed at the premises of Remdesivir distributors (retail drug stores are not permitted to sell the medicine) and personally verify the credentials of each customer before permitting the sale. The customers have been asked to produce the original prescription, Aadhaar card of the patient, proof of hospital admission and a RTPCR COVID-19 positive test result to be eligible for purchase of the medicine. The strict instructions have ensured availability, though resulting in long queues and token systems in front of several distributors.

Rajasthan has simplified the processing of purchasing the medicine by disallowing retail sales at the distributors end. Instead, hospitals have been asked to mail the details of the patients and the exact requirement of Remdesivir directly to Rajasthan Medical Services Corporation Ltd, the state medicine procurement agency. The agency will be responsible for the direct supply of the medicine to the hospitals.

In West Bengal, the government has prohibited nursing homes and hospitals from prescribing the medicine and asking the patient to source it. The state has made the hospitals responsible for arranging the medicine for the patient. Companies or their vendors have been asked to supply Remdesivir directly to the hospitals.

Several states like Karnataka and Maharashtra are also known to be following models similar to that of Rajasthan.

In some cases, the sale is complete only after the patient and the prescribing doctor accept and acknowledge the receipt of the medicine.

The current total installed capacity of the seven manufacturers of Remdesivir is 38.80 lakh vials per month. The government has given fast-track approval for seven additional sites having the production capacity of 10 lakh vials per month to six manufacturers. Another 30 lakh vials per month production is lined up. This is expected to ramp up the production capacity for manufacturing to around 78 lakh vials per month soon.

As an additional measure, the government has also placed Remdesivir, API and formulation under Export ban on April 11 to increase the supply of the medicine in the domestic market. Remdesivir supplies of approximately 4 lakh vials meant for export is being diverted by manufacturers to fulfill domestic requirement. EOU/SEZ units are also being enabled to supply to the domestic market.

The Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) has also asked enforcement authorities of states and Centre to take immediate action on incidence of black-marketing, hoarding and overcharging of Remdesivir.

Also Read: Inside Remdesivir puzzle: 6 producers, little supply!

Also Read: COVID-19: Railways delivers 1125 MT of liquid medical oxygen to states

Also Read: Received orders for 26 crore COVID-19 vaccine doses from Centre: Adar Poonawalla
Tata Chemicals on Monday reported a 58 per cent year-on-year decline in its consolidated net profit at Rs 436 crore for financial year 2020-21 on fall in sales and margin.

The company's income from operations fell 2 per cent to Rs 10,200 crore in FY21, while earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) declined 23 per cent to Rs 1,501 crore. Profit margin also contracted to 4 per cent from 10 per cent in FY20.

For January-March quarter, the Tata Group company's net profit declined 85 per cent to Rs 29 crore from Rs 198 crore in the corresponding quarter of previous year. However, revenue rose 11 per cent to Rs 2,636 crore during the quarter under review.

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"During the quarter, our profits were muted due to one off in US operations caused by Polar Vortex leading to sharp rise in gas prices. There was one off in UK operations due to tax asset write off, re-financing cost. We are witnessing strengthening of spot soda ash prices which will ease margin pressures sequentially in the coming quarters," Tata Chemicals MD and CEO R Mukundan said.

Going forward, time-bound commissioning of capacities in Mithapur and Dahej coupled with growth of specialty products are critical steps towards transformation of the company, he added.

The company said there was a sequential improvement in demand during the year and the trend continued in March quarter as well. It expects demand of soda ash and related products in North America, UK and Kenya to continue to sequentially improve in 2021-22.

"Bicarb demand remained steady except for some disruption in Q1. Volumes remained flat on yearly basis," Tata Chemicals said.

The company's board has recommended a dividend of Rs 10 per equity share. Shares of Tata Chemicals on Monday closed 1.28 per cent lower at Rs 782.85 on the BSE.

Also read: SBI Life FY21 net profit rises 2% to Rs 1,460 crore
Serum Institute CEO Adar Poonawalla has said that the vaccine shortage could continue for months amid India's devastating second wave of coronavirus. He said that the shortage could continue through July, which is when production is expected to increase to 100 million a month from the current 60-70 million.

"Everybody really felt that India had started to turn the tide on the pandemic," said Poonawalla to Financial Times, adding that the authorities did not expect to confront a second wave back in January, when cases had started declining.

India has been recording well over 3 lakh cases per day for the past many days. On Monday morning, the country reported 3.68 lakh new COVID-19 cases and 3,417 deaths for the past 24 hours. Multiple states and cities are currently under lockdown due to the increasing cases.

The SII CEO had last week told a London daily that he had left India partly because of unspecified threats from unnamed politicians and business figures demanding access to vaccines. He was provided with Y category security cover by the government. He said that he would return soon.

The Serum CEO told the daily that the company has been maligned by politicians and critics over vaccine shortages. He pointed out the government is responsible for policy, not the company. Following criticism for charging state governments higher for the vaccine than the Centre, Poonawalla had reduced the rate of a dose to Rs 300 from Rs 400 for state governments.

"I've been victimised very unfairly and wrongly," he said. He said that there were no orders and that they did not think they would be required to make more than 1 billion doses a year.

The government, last month, advanced Rs 3,000 crore to the company for orders to facilitate capacity expansion. "We have just done this right now to address the ridiculous shortage that the nation, and obviously now the world even, has," said Poonawalla.

Serum Institute has been sued by foreign governments for failing to deliver vaccines after India froze vaccine exports in March. He said the company has started refunding governments that had placed advance orders. "But I think if we don't see a major shift in two, three months then I think we're going to have some trouble," said Poonawalla.

Also read: Serum's Adar Poonawalla moves to London, cites threatening phone calls from powerful people

Also read: Centre grants Y category security to Serum Institute CEO Adar Poonawalla amid threats over Covishield supplies
Trade body Confederation of Indian Industry on Monday said it would work closely with the new government in Tamil Nadu on a focused agenda towards making "the State a leader in all spheres of development." The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) has won the assembly polls for which the results were declared on Sunday by the Election Commission.

"CII congratulates DMK President M K Stalin for winning the Tamil Nadu state assembly elections held in April 2021. This landmark victory has demonstrated the popular support of the people of Tamil Nadu," CII Southern region chairman, C K Ranganathan said. CII would work closely with the new government on a 'focused agenda' comprising manufacturing, micro, small and medium enterprises, skill development, entrepreneurship, infrastructure, renewable energy among others, he added.

"CII looks forward to working closely with the government of Tamil Nadu in making the State a leader in all spheres of development", he said. He stated the industry body was engaged with the government in its fight against the COVID-19.

"CII and its members are committed to work hand in hand with the state government in coming out of the COVID crisis soon," he said. CII Tamil Nadu chairman, S Chandrakumar said, the new government's primary focus should be on the economic development of the state, generating more employment opportunities and increasing new investments.

"However, the new government will need to get to the root of the current pandemic and take quick control measures and plan for a robust public health plan in the immediate future which is the need of the hour," he said.

Also read: India's manufacturing PMI improves slightly; reaches 55.5 in April
The events of 2020 and early 2021, including BREXIT and COVID-19, have thrown up undoubted hurdles causing us all to think 'outside the box' in our working processes and practices. But they are also causing us to identify new opportunities for re-invigorated collaborations and streamlined supply chains.

Notwithstanding the current COVID related events where again UK-India collaboration is rising to the challenge, there is a real opportunity to look forward and to catalyse new ways of strengthening the UK's bilateral economic relations with our major partners around the world. India is front and foremost on this list, not least because both India and the UK are rediscovering the great potential of working together to tackle common challenges.

In this context, alongside support during the current COVID surge, a renewed focus on the attainment of a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and the UK should be a priority. We have so many building blocks already in place.

Also Read: Businesses see promising India-UK ties ahead after Brexit

India is the second-largest FDI investor in the UK, and the UK remains one of the largest G20 investors in India, investing an estimated cumulative total of some GBP 21 billion, thereby creating an ecosystem of 2 million more people within or dependent upon their indigenous supply chains. All of this is currently sustained through a combination of Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) reforms and WTO rules.

Surely, this parallel and existing commitment in each other's peoples and economies must be a firm foundation on which to establish further a rules-based system of economic relations between India and the UK, driving mutually beneficial growth over the coming years.

Much has already been achieved in B2B and B2C-related activities. The renewed effort being placed on strengthening interactions at a G2G level with the ultimate goal of an FTA is particularly encouraging. B2G forums such as the Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO) and UK-India CEO Forum, for which the UKIBC serves as UK secretariat, are an important bridge.

Todays' FTAs are 'living documents' that adapt to the rapidly changing circumstances of economic life. Upon re-election in 2019, Prime Minister Narendra Modi set India a goal of becoming a $5 trillion economy in the foreseeable future.

Also Read: Cabinet gives nod to signing pact with UK for info sharing, prevent customs offences

His ambition to create a vibrant, indigenous economy with more domestic and sustainable supply chains - in sectors such as manufacturing, global supply chains, IT, waste management, healthcare, and infrastructure - underpins his cornerstone policies of 'Make in India' and 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (self-reliant India). At the same time, the UK is focused on improving its existing relations and investments in India as well as encouraging Indian investment into the UK.

It is heartening to see that there is an increasingly evident alignment of interests. This mutuality of ambitions bodes well for potential common areas of development in digital technology in both India and the UK in critical areas such as health-tech and ed-tech. Moreover, both India and the UK are also amongst the world's climate-change leaders. With the UK hosting COP26 in November 2021 and heavily investing in wind energy among other solutions, there is great room for collaborative growth here.

At the same time there is much to do. The UKIBC's Doing Business in India report finds that the most frequently selected obstacle to doing business in India, as per UK businesses, is 'legal and regulatory barriers' like 'foreign exchange regulations', 'goods and services tax', 'import tariffs', 'alignment with international standards' and 'incorporation of company'.

Also Read: COVID-19 crisis: UK dispatches first shipment of ventilators, oxygen concentrators to India

The Joint Trade Review, the Enhanced Trade Partnership, and the eventual FTA are important elements in a strong vibrant and sustainable partnership with India. They are constituent elements of an iterative process that will build upon and enhance relationships which already exist. The necessities and priorities of both India and the UK are driving bilateral investment by businesses in each other's economies and increased dialogue on a G2G level.

2021 will see significant multilateral events which should further enhance collaboration and co-operation - COP26; CHOGM; G7/D10 - as well as the upcoming dialogue between UK and India that is poised to offer several opportunities for bilateral trade growth and cooperation between both our countries. While our focus is and should be on immediate COVID related challenges, I am confident that 2021 will also pave the way for a new dimension of economic cooperation between India and the UK.

(Richard Heald is the Group Chair, UK India Business Council (UKIBC). Views expressed are personal.)
Hinduja Group's Ashok Leyland has scaled down production at all its plants due to the second COVID-19 wave and dip in demand in the automobile sector. "Accordingly, the operations of our plants have been scaled down and are expected to work for 7-15 days in May. We will continue to respond to the COVID-19 situation in the country as it unfolds," Ashok Leyland said in a BSE filing.

While the demand outlook is expected to take a hit, Ashok Leyland will continue to manufacture vehicles for the Defence Forces, will ensure smooth supply of essential parts and aggregates needed for manufacturing of commercial vehicles and also continue to enable the movement of essential goods and services.

The decision has been taken keeping the wellbeing of their employees, their employees' families, customers, dealers and suppliers in mind. "With health and safety first as the focus, our emergency response team, a high-level task force responsible for managing COVID related protocols has revisited all the standard operating procedures and is ensuring the implementation of the same," Ashok Leyland noted.

The Chennai-based commercial vehicle major is also monitoring the vaccination of its employees and their families.

Meanwhile, Ashok Leyland sales figures in April dipped. The Hinduja Group-backed commercial vehicle maker sold 8,340 units in April. Of these, 7,961 units were sold in the domestic market. Compared to March, the sales tumbled by 17,231 units due to second COVID-19 wave and subsequent curbs and lockdowns.

Edited by Mehak Agarwal

Also read: Hero MotoCorp, Maruti, Honda, MG Motor grind to a halt over oxygen curbs

Also read: Bajaj Auto sells over 1.34 lakh units in India in April

Also read: Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India to temporarily close 4 plants from May 1
Private lender Yes Bank is looking to bid for the Indian retail assets of Citibank. This move comes as the foreign bank is slated to partially exit 13 countries, including India. Yes Bank also joins a list of parties interested in the local operations of Citi.

The bank will look at acquiring Citi's retail assets, including credit cards and wealth management. "We would definitely explore that opportunity; I think they are running a process. Once all of that is in the public domain, we would definitely like to explore not only credit cards but also wealth management and retail business. Then, depending on our appetite, we would take a call," said chief executive Prashant Kumar in an interview.

The India business of Citi includes retail banking, wealth management, credit cards and mortgages. It also has a presence in the distribution of financial services products, investment banking operations and treasury and trade solutions. Citi India has over three dozen branches in areas like Ahmedabad, Aurangabad, Bengaluru (M.G. Road and South End Road), Chandigarh, Faridabad, Gurugram, Jaipur, Kochi, Kolkata, Lucknow, Mumbai, Nagpur, Nasik, New Delhi, Pune, Hyderabad, Surat, etc.

Citi Bank has a balance sheet size of Rs 2.18 lakh crore. The reason for exit in some markets is the lack of scale due to regulations or otherwise.

Citi's exit is seen as one of the first big strategic moves made by CEO Jane Fraser, who took over the company's reins in February this year. "We believe our capital, investment dollars, and other resources are better deployed against higher returning opportunities in wealth management and our institutional businesses in Asia," said Jane Fraser.

Citi India CEO Ashu Khullar had said that they will continue to tap into the talent pool available here to continue to grow the five Citi Solution Centers that support their global footprint. "There is no immediate change to our operations and no immediate impact to our colleagues as a result of this announcement. In the interim, we will continue to serve our clients with the same care, empathy and dedication that we do today," said Khullar.

Also read: Why is Citigroup exiting consumer business in India?

Also read: Citigroup to exit bank's consumer operations in India
Pfizer is in discussions with the Indian government seeking an "expedited approval pathway" for its COVID-19 vaccine, its CEO Albert Bourla said on LinkedIn on Monday, announcing a donation of medicines worth more than $70 million.

"Unfortunately, our vaccine is not registered in India although our application was submitted months ago," he said.

"We are currently discussing with the Indian government an expedited approval pathway to make our Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine available for use in the country."

Also read: 'Get vaccinated': Today's Google Doodle urges people to take COVID-19 vaccine

Also read: 'Vaccine shortage may continue till July,' says Serum CEO Adar Poonawalla
Highlights Getjab.in has been developed to notify users of Covid-19 vaccine slots in an area through an email.

It requires your name, district in India and your email ID to work.

User's discretion is advised for the use of the website.

Covid-19 vaccination for people above the age of 18 years and below 45 years has begun in India. However, the new phase of the world's largest vaccination drive has been marred by limited vaccine availability. Due to this, not all who register for the vaccine are able to get a slot for the jab in the near future.

A website has now been created that aims to notify all those who registered for the Covid-19 vaccine through an email. Spelt Getjab.in, the website promises to notify the 18-45 years age group with an email as soon as slots open up in the area.

The website is in a very nascent stage as of now and comprises a single registration page. It requires your name, district in India and your email ID to send the mail to when the Covid-19 vaccination slots are open in your area. There is an option to register your phone number, as the website plans to bring SMS functionality for the notification soon.

As per the very limited information available on it, the website has been developed by four friends, each from a different field of work. Getjab.in promises to not share or sell the data to anyone.

India Today reached out to the developers for more information on Getjab.in. As per our discussion with Shyam Sunder, one of the developers of the website, users will only receive an email from the Getjab.in once slots are available for vaccination in their area. No confirmation for registration or any other mails are sent out by the website. You can check out a screenshot of an email sent by the website upon slot availability in Panipat, Haryana.

(Image: Getjab.in)

Shyam said that the website procures the data for slot availability through the public APIs of the official government portal Co-WIN, as available on API Setu. It makes use of Microsoft Azure for querying the CoWin portal for the data.

The website has been hosted on carrd.com, a platform for building single page websites. Its backend is powered by Airtable and Shyam assures that the data is pretty secure. Still, users are advised to use the website at their own discretion.

How to register for the Covid-19 vaccine

In case you are eligible (aged 18 years or above) and have not registered for the Covid-19 vaccine, you can do so by visiting the CoWin government portal. The website allows users to register for a jab using their phone number.

Once the phone number is verified through an OTP, the registration process requires the user's name, a preferred method of identification and its number, gender and year of birth. Users receive a confirmation on their email and phone number once the registration is complete.

Post successful registration, users will have to schedule an appointment at their area's vaccination centre. Limited slots are available at present for some regions, and this is why initiatives like Getjab.in can help users stay on top of the availability.
European Union regulators accused Apple on Friday of violating the bloc's antitrust laws, alleging the iPhone maker distorts competition for music streaming by imposing unfair rules for rival services in its App Store. The EU's executive Commission said it objected to Apple's rules for music streaming services that compete with its Apple Music service, saying they end up costing consumers more and limiting their choices.

The charges underscore the long-running feud over app payments between Apple and popular music streaming service Spotify, which filed a complaint that sparked the investigation - one of four the company is facing from the EU. Regulators in Brussels are also investigating other big US tech companies like Amazon and Google, amid a growing global movement to rein in their power.

The EU's competition commissioner, Margrethe Vestager, outlined two main concerns. One centers on Apple's practice of forcing app developers selling digital content to use its in-house payment system, which charges a 30 percent commission on all subscriptions. The other concern is that Apple prevents app makers from telling users about cheaper ways to pay for subscriptions that don't involve going through an app.

Apple rejected the charges, saying it was proud of its role in helping Spotify grow into a music streaming giant. The company also pointed out Spotify doesn't pay Apple a commission for 99 percent of its paid subscribers. "Once again, they want all the benefits of the App Store but don't think they should have to pay anything for that," Apple said in a statement. "The Commission's argument on Spotify's behalf is the opposite of fair competition."

Vestager said while Spotify had grown despite the restrictions, they were hurting business for smaller music streaming players like Deezer and Soundcloud. The App Store rules are an issue beyond just music streaming services because many other app makers depend on it as a "gatekeeper" to iPhones and iPads, Vestager said.

"This significant market power cannot go unchecked as the conditions of access to the Apple App Store are key for the success of app developers," she told reporters in Brussels.

Vestager noted that Apple Music isn't subject to the same rules, which hurts rivals by raising their costs, reducing their profit margins and making them less attractive on the App Store. She said the problem is not the fee itself, but that Apple only charges it on payments for digital content and not other services such as transport or food deliveries. The EU's investigation found it typically pushed up the price of a monthly subscription to 12.99 euros ($15.70) from 9.99 euros, she said.

Spotify refuses to use Apple's app payment system to sell premium subscriptions, instead requiring customers to go through its website. Epic Games, which makes the popular video game Fortnite, has also filed an EU antitrust complaint against Apple. When it tried to bypass the App Store with its own payment system, Apple kicked out the Fortnite app.

Apple's ban on communicating with customers means app makers can't get the same insights into their users that Apple does, such as the reason for canceling a subscription, Vestager said. "Not only are they not allowed to mention their websites or any link to them in their own apps," Vestager said. "They are also not allowed to send emails to users that created an account in the app in order to inform them about cheaper alternatives."

Apple has 12 weeks to respond to the EU's objections. Under EU competition law, companies could offer a remedy - Vestager indicated she thought "Apple should end the infringement" and not do anything that would have the same effect. Or else, companies could be fined up to 10 percent of their annual revenue for breaches. For Apple, which reported $274.5 billion in revenue in its latest financial year, that could mean a fine of up to $27.4 billion.

Spotify welcomed the EU's move. It's "a critical step toward holding Apple accountable for its anticompetitive behavior, ensuring meaningful choice for all consumers and a level playing field for app developers," the company's chief legal officer, Horatio Gutierrez, said in a statement.

Also read: India's smartphone industry grew 23% in Q1; Xiaomi leads, Samsung second
While Indias health insurance industry continues to be among the key drivers of the countrys non-life insurance growth, insurers underwriting results have not kept up with the expansion of the health business, which could lead to potential strain on companies profit and solvency in the longer term, according to a new AM Best report.

In its Bests Special Report, India Insurers Face Potential Profitability and Solvency Margin Pressures as Health Segment Grows, AM Best states that it expects Indias health insurance market to continue to grow strongly, underpinned by a rising awareness of health protection and changing demographics and increasing affluence. In fiscal year ending March 2021 (FY2021), retail health premiums increased sharply by 38.1% and in turn drove the significant growth of the markets health insurance premium. However, the report notes that adequate earnings have not accompanied the rapid expansion of health insurance amid regulatory changes in India. The segment has posted some of the weakest underwriting results in Indias non-life industry over the past decade; the 10-year average loss ratio of the health insurance business is approximately 98% (FY2010-FY2020). Although this has abated in recent years, the loss ratio remains unviable at 88% in FY2020.

Another major cause of non-life companies poor underwriting results is the prevalence of group health insurance with limited rate adjustment capacity. In India, group health policies account for the bulk of total health insurance premiums, and in practice, non-life insurers usually price group health policies at a large discount to bundle these with other commercial insurance products. Consequently, profits from other lines of business are often used to offset underwriting losses from the health segment. However, AM Best notes that this approach is unsustainable over the long term, as the profit margins of other lines of business have been deteriorating due to intense competition in the Indian insurance industry.

India also implemented major regulatory reform in October 2020, aimed at promoting uniformity while focusing on the interests of and expanding coverage for policyholders. AM Best expects the new regulation will place considerable pressure on insurers profitability as it includes several changes that may raise claim frequency and severity trends.

According to the report, the ultimate impact of COVID-19 on health insurance claims in India remains to be seen. Over the first few months of lockdowns, health insurance claims declined substantially due to postponements of hospitalisation and other elective treatments. However, since May 2020, medical claims have started to pick up. It is likely that the recent surge in COVID-19 cases will reduce the number of regular medical claims again, although insurers may see a much higher number of COVID-19 claims as compared to 2020. Indian insurance regulator mandated general insurers to offer COVID-19 specific policies. While these products generated significant sales after the rollout in mid-2020, growth subsequently slowed down. As of end-March 2021, several general insurers reported loss ratios above 100% for the COVID-19 specific covers. Given the recent surge in COVID-19 cases in April 2021, AM Best notes that the claim ratio of these specific health policies may continue to develop unfavorably, although the full impact remains to be seen.

To access the full copy of this special report visit http://www3.ambest.com/bestweek/purchase.asp?record_code=308168.

AM Best is a global credit rating agency, news publisher and data analytics provider specialising in the insurance industry. Headquartered in the United States, the company does business in over 100 countries with regional offices in London, Amsterdam, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore and Mexico City. For more information, visit www.ambest.com.

Copyright  2021 by A.M. Best Rating Services, Inc. and/or its affiliates. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210429005905/en/
The strategic partnership results in Fliggys premium members (F3 and F4) being able to redeem complimentary access to Collinsons LoungeKey powered by Priority Pass network of over 190 airport lounges across China

Fliggys highest tiered members (F4) will also be able to redeem lounge access for guests on a complimentary basis (2 lounge visits)



Collinson, a global leader in traveller experiences and medical assistance, and the owner and operator of airport experiences programme Priority Pass, announces a strategic partnership with Fliggy, the Alibaba Group-owned travel platform, to bring lounge access to its premium members across China, as of 21 April 2021.

Under the partnership, Fliggy F3 members can redeem access via the Taobao Fliggy app in order to relax, unwind and recharge at over 190 lounges within Collinsons China network (over 60 major airports) before boarding their flights. Simultaneously, Fliggy F4 members will also have the opportunity to invite additional guests to enjoy these facilities relaxing atmosphere, amenities, and services through redemption of points.

Todd Handcock, President, Asia Pacific, Collinson, said, Our recent research has uncovered that, across the globe, mental wellbeing is a priority for those looking to return to travel; with a large proportion of frequent flyers in Asia seeking to de-stress and relax in socially-distanced spaces at the airport. Our partnership with Fliggy represents an important step in providing a seamless, stress-free experience for travellers in Asia. It also demonstrates our ongoing commitment to aiding the recovery of the travel industry, with domestic travel critical for the success of the region, particularly in terms of rebuilding local economies.

Wan Li, Fliggy General Manager of User Growth and Membership Benefits, said, We are very pleased to be in partnership with Collinson to provide Fliggy members with more benefits and a better user experience. We will work with Collinson to explore the future of travel together, focus on the younger generation, and make every effort to enhance our travel service.

This latest announcement aligns with Collinsons ongoing dedication to supporting the safe return of global travel, which has seen a series of strategic partnerships with leading airlines, aimed at rebuilding traveller confidence and safely elevating the post-pandemic traveller experience. These partnerships include the ongoing testing collaboration with Singapore Airlines, and Collinsons collaboration with Asiana Airlines to expand their loyalty programme.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210429005710/en/
Heilind Asia Pacific, part of Heilind Electronics Inc., has been awarded the Huaqiang Electronics Best Supplier Award 2020 from Huaqiang Electronics. As a professional global distributor, Heilind Asia Pacific received the award in recognition of the positive relationship and close cooperation with suppliers to bring values to the electronics industry. Winners were elected by the committee with industry authoritative experts. The results of this selection are based on scientific and rigorous statistic, and the selection results are subject to supervision from all process.

On behalf of Heilind Asia Pacific, I would like to express my gratitude to Huaqiang Electronics and the industry for their recognition and encouragement through this award. We will also maintain our aspirations and work closely with the industry's first-class suppliers to bring value to the market, and contribute more to electronic innovation and development. said Ken Liu, Branch Manager (Shenzhen) of Heilind Asia Pacific.

Heilind Asia Pacific supports both original equipment and contract manufacturers in all market segments of the electronics industry, stocking products from the industrys leading manufacturers in 25 component categories, with a particular focus on connectors, relays, switches, thermal management & circuit protection products, terminal blocks, wire & cable, wiring accessories, insulation & identification, fastener/hardware and sensor products.

About Heilind Electronics:

Founded in 1974, Heilind Electronics, Inc. (http://www.heilind.com) is one of the world's leading distributors of connectors, relays, switches, thermal management & circuit protection products, terminal blocks, wire & cable, wiring accessories, insulation & identification, fastener/hardware and sensor products. Heilind has over 40 facilities in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Germany, Singapore and China.

Heilind Asia Pacific (www.heilindasia.com) commenced operations in Dec 2012, and now has 24 locations throughout Asia. Its industry leading service offering to customers in Asia Pacific is the result of a commitment to the belief of Distribution As It Should Be. Learn more at www.heilindasia.com and on Facebook, LinkedIn, WeChat, Weibo and Twitter.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210429005049/en/
Global outsourcing powerhouse, ibex, is increasing the diversity of jobs within Jamaicas global digital services industry through an expansion of its current workforce of two thousand employees. The company provides customer support in sectors that include retail, finance, healthcare, and telecommunications, and it now offers a broad spectrum of business services from its Jamaican service centres.

With a client list heavily concentrated in the US, Europe, and Asia, ibex identified Jamaica as the perfect place for rapid expansion due to the islands location and high-quality talent.

ibex has experienced incredible growth in Jamaica - in the last three years weve grown 397%, Country Director Jaime Vergara revealed. We have gone from ranking as the 17th outsourcing company on the island for number of employees to number one, and ibex has been recognized for not only our growth, but for our performance, by organisations like Frost & Sullivan, a leading industry analyst group, and as Nexus Nearshore BPO of the Year in 2019 by Nearshore Americas.

The high-calibre staff ibex has attracted has cleared the way for it to bring more business to Jamaicas outsourcing industry and it now offers Knowledge Process Outsourcing (KPO) services from the islands service centres. KPO is the outsourcing of information-related business activities such as accounting outsourcing, human resources (HR) outsourcing, digital marketing and management consultancy. Legal, medical and other healthcare analyses are additional examples of KPO.

As the world further relies on BPO and KPO during the COVID-19 pandemic, it is predicted that more business services will be digitised during and after the crisis. This and other factors will increase the demand for outsourcing, creating the environment for ibex to safely execute its growth plans both in Jamaica, and globally.

We plan on prolonging our unprecedented growth and we hope to reach 10,000 employees in Jamaica over the next few years, Vergara disclosed.

With the specialised skills needed for KPO, Vergara said Jamaica was the perfect location for ibex to offer these services. Jamaica offers a talented and educated labour pool which is what has made us attractive to our clients, particularly in the financial services sector, he said. Through programs like the GSSP (Global Services Sector Project), the employees we hire are on a career path and are looking for companies to join where they can be successful. They are eager to work with their customers in their specialised area.

Vergara also expressed appreciation for private and public sector partnerships including entities such as the Office of the Prime Minister, the Jamaica Special Economic Zone Authority (JSEZA) and the Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO) among others.

JAMPRO, for example, has supported ibex as an investment facilitation partner, beginning with the launch of the first service centre in Portmore. The company now has five service centres across Jamaica.

ibex believes that its advancement into KPO has led to increased customer confidence, displaying the companys adaptation to the needs of todays clients. The company looks forward to more expansion in Jamaica.

ABOUT JAMPRO

The Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO)s mission is to drive economic development through growth in investment and export. JAMPRO is an Agency of the Ministry of Industry, Investment, and Commerce.

For more information on JAMPRO, please visit https://dobusinessjamaica.com/.

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View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210430005093/en/
The Western Union Company (NYSE: WU), a global leader in cross-border, cross-currency money movement and payments, and the Western Union Foundation today announced a package of relief efforts for India aimed at combating its latest, devastating phase in the COVID-19 pandemic, and kicked off a fundraising appeal with Western Union employees worldwide.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210430005585/en/

Western Union Supports India COVID Relief (Graphic: Business Wire)

In collaboration with United Way India (UWI), the Western Union Foundation will fund medical respiratory support machines for hospitals and at-home care kits for families, expected to benefit up to 5,000 households in the Maharashtra region immediately. Beginning May 4th, Western Union will also waive transfer fees*for two weeks for digital channels, and four weeks for retail channelsfor monies sent by family and friends from select countries directly into Indian bank accounts.

We stand in solidarity with the people of India as they confront this latest phase of the COVID-19 pandemic. Our thoughts and prayers are with our customers, our agents, our employees and their families, said Sohini Rajola, Head of Regional Network, Middle East and APAC.

The people of India, my home nation, are showing remarkable courage and resilience. We are comforted that the financial support of the Western Union Foundation and our zero-fee action will contribute to much-needed medical relief and facilitate additional financial flows into the country, supporting peoples everyday needs, including medicine and health care, she said.

A core mission of the Western Union Foundation is the support of vulnerable people in times of extreme need, said Executive Director Elizabeth Roscoe. Working with United Way India, we are hopeful that our resources will help the people of the Maharashtra region as they grapple with this crisis.

We also want to extend our deepest gratitude to local emergency and health care workers, whose efforts in the face of unimaginable difficulty are an ongoing inspiration to people everywhere, Roscoe said.

Western Union Foundation & United Way India

UWI, in conjunction with large government hospitals, will manage the distribution of respiratory support machines such as non-invasive ventilators and oxygen generators, which are critically required at hospitalsparticularly to help support patients who are in the moderately severe category from getting worse.

UWI will also deliver at-home care kits suitable to treat non-critical COVID patients outside the hospital by equipping them with COVID monitoring techniques, oximeters to monitor blood oxygen levels, and thermometers. The at-home care kits enable families to monitor their symptoms without a hospital trip that risks exposure and further burdening already overwhelmed health care facilities. This program will primarily serve underprivileged patients across the hardest-hit, most remote, and lowest-income communities in the region.

The Western Union Foundation has committed $200,000 to the United Way India for this effort (NOTE: assuming all the funds will be given to UWI directly). Further, all funds raised by the Foundations Western Union employee appeal will be granted to UWI, with the goal of raising an additional $50,000.

Western Union Zero-transfer fee to Indian Bank Accounts

Commencing May 4th, 2021, Western Union will waive transfer fees* to Indian bank accounts, for two weeks for digital channels, through May 18th; and four weeks for retail channels, through June 4th. To avail themselves of the offer, customers must send money directly into Indian bank accounts via westernunion.com and the Western Union mobile app from Canada, Europe & CIS and the U.S.; and from retail agent locations across Australia, Canada, Europe & CIS, New Zealand and the U.S.**

About Western Union

The Western Union Company (NYSE: WU) is a global leader in cross-border, cross-currency money movement and payments. Western Unions platform provides seamless cross-border flows and its leading global financial network bridges more than 200 countries and territories and over 130 currencies. We connect businesses, financial institutions, governments, and consumers through one of the worlds widest reaching networks, accessing billions of bank accounts, millions of digital wallets, and cards, and over half a million retail locations. Western Union connects the world to bring boundless possibilities within reach. For more information, visit www.westernunion.com.

About the Western Union Foundation

The Western Union Foundation believes that education is the surest pathway to economic opportunity. After 20 years of impact, we continue to deliver on our mission with Opportunity Beyond Borders, focused on empowering forcibly displaced and marginalized youth with the training and education needed to succeed in todays technology-driven global economy. The Foundation also provides funding for humanitarian efforts for communities in crisis and disaster, one key reason for forced migration. To date, we have funded more than $131 million for projects and scholarships. The Western Union Foundation is a separate, tax-exempt 501(c)(3) charitable corporation and receives support from The Western Union Company, its employees, agents, and business partners. Contributions to the Foundation are tax-deductible for U.S. income tax purposes. To learn more, visit wu.com/foundation or follow us on Twitter @TheWUFoundation.

*Western Union also makes money from currency exchange. When choosing a money transmitter, carefully compare both transfer fees and exchange rates. Fees, foreign exchange rates, and taxes may vary by brand, channel, and location-based on several factors. Fees and rates subject to change without notice.

** Consumers in the U.S. and Canada were previously offered zero-transfer fee transactions into India when sending digitally for Account Payout.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210430005585/en/
Nearly 11 million candidates are taking Chinas all-important National College Entrance Examination, also known as the gaokao. This year, the country has set up over 7,200 testing sites with 466,000 rooms for the exam. Authorities and volunteer groups directed traffic to ensure students had a smooth trip to the testing sites, where anxious parents waited for their children to finish

Jun 07, 2021 06:15 PM
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Do you have an athlete in mind that contributes to the team or sport, holds sportsmanship and team spirit, has epic playmaker moments and/or in general makes the the sports fun? If yes, please make your nominations for our edition of Athlete Spotlight.

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This car needs little introduction. You, your relative, your friend, or at least someone you know own one. Its a vehicle that transcends so...
In this photo provided by the North Korean government, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un delivers a closing speech at the Sixth Conference of Cell Secretaries of the Workers' Party of Korea in Pyongyang, North Korea, Thursday, April 8, 2021. Independent journalists were not given access to cover the event depicted in this image distributed by the North Korean government. The content of this image is as provided and cannot be independently verified. Korean language watermark on image as provided by source reads: "KCNA" which is the abbreviation for Korean Central News Agency. (Korean Central News Agency/Korea News Service via AP)
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Apple's move to the Triangle will It will cost the state more than $845 million dollars in tax breaks promised over the next 39 years. (CJ photo by Maya Reagan)
Nintendo is considering new avenues through which to develop its IP  and animation is on the cards.

The current project: The upcoming Super Mario animated feature is being produced by Illumination Entertainment (Despicable Me, Minions) and due to come out next year. The gaming titans global president Shuntaro Furukawa told Fast Company that franchise creator Shigeru Miyamoto is closely involved. Its not that weve asked Illumination to handle everything, he said. Mr. Miyamoto is very, very hands-on with the production of this movie.

More animation could be on the way: Furukawa hinted in the Fast Company interview that animation will be a bigger part of the companys future plans: Animation, in general, is something that we are looking into, and not just this franchise.
Photo: The Canadian Press Police officers detain a demonstrator during a May Day rally in Berlin, Germany, Saturday, May 1, 2021. (AP Photo/Markus Schreiber)

At least 93 police officers were injured and 354 protesters were detained after traditional May Day rallies in Berlin turned violent, the city's top security official said Sunday.

More than 20 different rallies took place in the German capital on Saturday and the vast majority of them were peaceful. However, a leftist march of 8,000 people through the city's Neukoelln and Kreuzberg neighbourhood, which has seen clashes in past decades, turned violent. Protesters threw bottles and rocks at officers, and burned garbage cans and wooden pallets in the streets.

Violence against police officers and a blind, destructive rage has nothing to do with political protest, Berlin state interior minister Andreas Geisel said.

Geisel condemned the throwing of bottles and rocks, the burning barricades on the streets and especially the violence toward police.

The high number of injured officer leaves me stunned. I wish all of those who were injured in the line of duty a quick recovery, he said.

There's a nightly curfew in most parts of Germany because of the high number of coronavirus infections, but political protests and religious gatherings are exempt from the curfew.

In France, May Day marches in Paris and the southern city of Lyon were also marred by scattered violence, with riot officers targeted by small groups of violent demonstrators who tossed projectiles and trash bins. Police made 56 arrests  46 of them in Paris, the Interior Ministry said Sunday. It said six officers suffered injuries, three of them in Paris.

The CGT labour union that organized the main Paris march said violent demonstrators also targeted its marchers at the end of the rally, showering them with projectiles, blows and homophobic, sexist and racist insults. The union said 21 of its participants were injured, four seriously.
Photo: Nova Scotia legislature Donald Cameron

The leader of Nova Scotia's Progressive Conservative party has issued a statement saying Donald Cameron, the province's 22nd premier, has died.

Tory Leader Tim Houston described Cameron as a mentor with incredible integrity.

Cameron, who was 74, served as premier from February 1991 to May 1993.

Houston says Cameron's government introduced pioneering human rights legislation that called for equal rights for gay and lesbian people.

Cameron retired from politics the night his party was defeated in a general election by the Liberals, led by John Savage.

In June 1993, then prime minister Brian Mulroney appointed Cameron to serve as consul general in Boston.

"He loved Nova Scotia and during his time in public and private life, Donnie was a man of incredible integrity." Houston said.
Photo: The Canadian Press Transport Minister Marc Garneau arrives for question period in the House of Commons on Parliament Hill in Ottawa on Wednesday, Nov. 4, 2020. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick

Foreign Affairs Minister Marc Garneau will stay in a quarantine hotel for three days starting Wednesday after returning from the United Kingdom where he's attending the first in-person meeting of G7 foreign and development ministers in over two years.

Garneau's office says he will abide by the same rules that every Canadian has to follow after travelling outside the country, including doing PCR COVID-19 tests before and after boarding his flight to Canada and staying a government-approved hotel for three days.

His office says Garneau travelled to the U.K. with his director of communications, and they both will do a total of seven COVID-19 tests during their trip including daily rapid tests while attending the G7 meetings.

U.K. Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab is hosting the G7 foreign and development ministers' meeting in central London, where participants will follow strict COVID-19 measures, including daily testing and social distancing.

International Development Minister Karina Gould's office says she didn't travel to London because the U.K. government decided that she should participate virtually.

Garneau received his first shot of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine on March 15.
The Covid-19 hospital in India so bad patients want to get out
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Polish cement association highlights challenges ahead

ICR Newsroom By 03 May 2021

From 2021 Polands cement industry is facing new challenges as it embarks on a three decade-long transformation towards climate neutrality by 2050, according to the Polish Cement Association (SPC).



Moreover, in addition to the COVID-19 pandemic, the industry also has to address the rising costs of purchasing CO 2 emission allowances and energy supply, without compensation, as well as rapidly growing imports from outside the European Union.



Following lower cement sales due to a cold winter, Krzysztof Kieres, the associations president, forecasts a 1.8 per cent drop in sales. Polands Institute of Economic Forecasts and Analysis expects cement sales of 18.5Mt in 2021. The institute predicts market growth of 4.3 per cent YoY to 19.3Mt in 2022, providing the economy recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic.



Output from Polish cement plants was down 20 per cent to 3.027Mt in the first quarter of 2021 from 3.758Mt in the 1Q2021 although towards the end of the three-month period output had levelled with that reported in March 2020.







Published under
Nigerian cement volumes climb to record levels for Dangote in 1Q21

03 May 2021

Dangote Cement's Nigerian operations sold over 4.9Mt, including exports, up 22.2 per cent on the 4Mt sold in 1Q20. This represents the highest quarterly volume sold from the company's Nigerian operations. When looking at the domestic sales alone, our Nigerian operations sold 4.8Mt, up 18.7 per cent YoY.

While the company's ex-factory prices have remained stable since the end of 2019, revenues for Dangotes Nigerian operations increased by 33.7 per cent to NGN239.7bn. In Nigeria, Dangote achieved a record quarterly EBITDA of NGN157.9bn at a margin of 65.9 per cent excluding central costs and eliminations (2020: NGN103.4, 57.6 per cent).

Nigeria's strong performance was enhanced by economies of scale from the ramp-up of the new and efficient Obajana Line 5 and resumption of the Gboko plant at the end of 2020. Although clinker exports were paused to meet the rapidly growing local demand, Dangote continued road cement exports in 1Q21.

Pan-African results

Pan-African operations sold just under 2.6Mt of cement in 1Q21, up 13.4 per cent on the 2.3Mt sold in 1Q20. Including clinker, Pan-African volumes came in at 2.61Mt. The total Pan-African volume represents 34.7 per cent of group volumes. Pan-African revenues of NGN93.0bn were 33.1 per cent higher than 1Q20 and represented 28 per cent of total group revenues.

Dangote estimates the total market for cement in Cameroon to have been about 940,000t in the first three months of 2021, up 11 per cent from the 1Q20. The Douala grinding plant sold over 360,400t of cement in the 1Q21, a 16 per cent increase on the 311,700t sold in the 1Q20.

The total market for cement in Congo is estimated by Dangote to have been about 197,000t in the first three months of 2021. Dangotes Mfila plant sold 116,100t of cement in the 1Q21, up 57 per cent compared to the 1Q20.

Ethiopia's market was estimated at just under 1.9Mt in the first three months of 2021. Sales at the Mugher factory were 533,300t in the 1Q21, down four per cent YoY, mainly due to maintenance operations in the 1Q21, stated Dangote.

Ghana's market sales were estimated at 1.8Mt in the 1Q21. Dangote Cement Ghana sold 146,800t of cement in the quarter up 18 per cent on 1Q20.

In the 1Q21, the Senegalese market had cement sales of over 2Mt (including exports). Sales from the Pout plant increased by six per cent from 407,200t in 1Q20 to 432,300t in the 1Q21, making Senegal one of Dangote's best performing markets.

Sierra Leone's market consumed about 304,000t of cement in the 1Q21. Dangote Cement sold 93,600t during the period, an increase of 39 per cent from the 67,400t achieved in the 1Q20. Dangotes market share for the first quarter was 31 per cent.

The company's South African sales volume for the 1Q21 increased by six per cent, while in Tanzania the Mtwara factory sold 313,000t of cement in the 1Q21, including clinker sales of 26,500t increasing market share from 18 per cent in 1Q20 to 22 per cent in the 1Q21.

Finally, Zambias market is estimated at 549,000t in the 1Q21. Dangote's Ndola factory sold 196,800t of cement, up 47 per cent from 134,300t in the 1Q20. This raised the companys market share to 36 per cent.

Published under
Vietnam records no new COVID-19 cases over 12 hours

Over the past 12 hours Vietnam has recorded no new coronavirus infections after announcing 20 cases, including eight locally transmitted cases, on May 2 afternoon.





Many people in Da Nang strictly abide by the Ministry of Health's COVID-19 recommendations, including donning face masks in public places.

However, people are worried about the spread of the fresh coronavirus outbreak after the SARS-CoV-2 recurred in Ha Nam province and it has now been reported in three other localities of Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Hung Yen.

In addition, less than 10 Vietnamese people were infected with the virus after having contact with a Chinese expert who had completed his 14-day quarantine period but had been diagnosed with the virus upon his return to China.

Localities such as Hanoi, Da Nang, Vinh Phuc, Yen Bai, Son La, Hung Yen, Hai Phong are ramping up contact tracing to early quarantine and test those who had directly and indirectly come into contact with COVID-19 patients.

Amid new coronavirus threats, the Ministry of Health has advised people to strictly follow its COVID-19 rules, including the 5K message in Vietnamese, namely khau trang (facemask), khu khuan (disinfection), khoang cach (distance), khong tu tap (no gathering), and khai bao y te (health declaration).
A British company will build their first U.S. facility in Danville; City planners recommend approval of a rezoning request for a casino in Danville; Danville Police are looking for suspects in a weekend burglary; The local hospital is easing some of its visitor restrictions as the pandemic w
Attorneys for two brothers who faced federal charges in connection with a Pikeville textile plant that never opened say they should receive probation or home confinement.

Karim and Rahim Sadruddin earlier pleaded guilty to wire fraud and money laundering. Their guideline sentencing range is 70-87 months.

Attorneys Lee Davis and Eugene Shiles said the twin brothers relied heavily on Chattanooga businessman Ed Cagle in connection with the textile plant and a plan to sell tarps to the federal government.

It was announced in 2017 at a press conference attended by Governor Bill Haslam that the plant would provide 1,000 jobs.

Prosecutor Steve Neff earlier said the brothers used much of the proceeds from a $3 million federal grant and a $230,000 grant from TVA for other projects, including buying tarps that were to go to hurricane victims.

Attorneys Davis and Shiles said, "The Sadruddins have fully accepted responsibility for their actions and filed no objections to their Presentence Investigation Reports.

"Karim Sadruddin and his twin brother Rahim are 35 years old. Born in Karachi Pakistan, Karim and Rahim have been naturalized citizens since 2007 and live in the Atlanta, Georgia area. Living almost their entire lives in the United States, both Karim and Rahim are happily married with one and three minor children respectfully. The brothers are deeply committed family men  taking active and critical roles in the education and nurturing of their children. Karim graduated from high school and completed approximately two-years of college from Georgia State University. Rahim obtained a four-year undergraduate degree. He has no criminal history. The Sadruddins have not, and do not, drink alcohol or use non-prescription drugs.

"Karim and Rahim were born into a family of textile manufacturers and distributors. Their father, Mansoor Sadruddin, has, throughout his career, been involved in the textile business, and until 2005, Mansoor Sadruddin owned and operated a textile manufacturing operation within the state of Georgia. Karim and Rahim worked in their familys textile manufacturing and distribution businesses and aspired to own and operate their own one day. Like offspring of many successful parents, Karim and Rahim wanted to make their mark early in life to prove that they too could carry on the familys tradition of success.

"Unfortunately, the Sadruddin brothers were in too much of a hurry and soon were in 'over their heads.' For years, Karim and Rahm have distributed textile products, including those from Al Rahim Textile Industries of Pakistan, where they have long-standing personal and business relationships. (Based in Pakistan, Al Rahim is a large textile manufacturer/distributor, as well as a major exporter throughout the world.)

"In early 2017, Karim began to investigate launching his own textile manufacturing facility in the Southeast. His investigations included speaking with Al Rahim officials concerning a joint venture to include Al Rahims financial backing and/or partnership. While some of the details may be disputed, Al Rahim provided Karim its audited financial statement for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2016 in relation to serious discussions regarding the opening of a textile manufacturing/distribution facility in the Southeast during the first half of 2017.

"While investigating prospects with Al Rahim, Karim was introduced to Ed Cagle who touted his own experience in siting new manufacturing facilities and especially in the procurement of government incentives. Mr. Cagle owned and/or leased a private jet to travel and spent ostentatiously. He told Karim that he had been instrumental in many successful projects including the bringing of a Caterpillar manufacturing facility to South Carolina and Komatsu to Chattanooga and South Carolina. He further boasted that over the years he had many lucrative contracts with TVA. Mr. Cagle offered his services and suggested they explore opportunities, including in Tennessee where he said he knew and had previously worked with many important state officials.

"Karim accepted Cagles offer of help, and they began actively collaborating to launch a textile manufacturing facility. Mr. Cagle would fly Karim to different sites as they investigated opportunities or met with consultants or prospective clients. Nevertheless, Karim had continued to maintain communications with Al Rahim officials, and in late May 2017, Karim informed Al Rahim of options including facility sites in North Carolina, Georgia, and Tennessee.

"An Al Rahim representative invited Karim to join them in a possible venture in Georgia if the Tennessee venture did not work out. However, Al Rahim insisted that any venture would require Al Rahim to be the sole/dominant owner with Karim to serve as an employee or perhaps a minor equity owner. Karim desired at least an equal share and came to believe his/family prospects would be better served by collaboration solely with Cagle who offered connections, professed expertise in obtaining grants, an equal share in the business, as well as financial backing and/or sources.

"Cagle did appear, in fact, to be well known to state officials and began negotiating directly with Gregg Ridley, the Bledsoe County mayor, as well as members of the Bledsoe County Industrial Development Board (IDB) about locating the facility in Pikeville. Cagle also negotiated directly with Beth Jones and Todd Byrum of Tennessees Department of Economic and Community Development (ECD) regarding state grants and other incentives.

"During these negotiations, Cagle described the general scope and nature of the operations which included rough estimates for employment and investment levels. Cagle decided on the numbers to 'pitch' state officials in order to maximize the size of the grant, and in April, 2017, Karim and Cagle met with ECD and TVA representatives regarding the planned textile mill and represented that the project would bring 1,000 jobs and investment of between $18 million to $21 million in plant, equipment, training, and other related expenses.

"In May 2017, Karim and Cagle collaborated in completing the state (ECD) incentives application seeking funding and other tax incentives for a textile manufacturing facility to be operated under the name Textile Corporation of America. (The application was signed by Karim only.) The application contained similar representations regarding employment and investment as made in April (1,000 employees and $27.1 million in investment by 2020), as well as falsely representing that Al Rahim was TCAs parent and financial backer. The Al Rahim financial statement described above was submitted in furtherance of this misrepresentation.

"Subsequently, Cagle negotiated with Joe Cadle of the ECD to increase the funding amount from an original offer of approximately $1.5 to $3 million. Even without Al Rahims financial backing, the Sadruddins had come to believe that with sufficient grant money and the auspices of their well-connected business partner, Ed Cagle, the manufacturing facility could still become a reality. All along, Cagle seemed to know what he was doing - and more importantly to have the blessings of important government officials.

"For instance, Cagle would soon add Troy King, the former state attorney general of Alabama between 2004 and 2011, to the projects team. Cagle assured Karim that government officials were not strict about how the grant money was spent as long as a viable business was created. He suggested grant money ear-marked for construction or equipment or training could be used for other purposes.

"On or about June 2, 2017, the State of Tennessee approved the ECD grant application. As described in the PSRs, the grant provided reimbursement for purchase of the Pikeville property and other expenses related to bringing the facility online. (Cagle had already directly negotiated a sales price of $850,000 with the IDB for the Pikeville property.)

"With the grant in hand, Cagle instructed his attorney, Darrell Bridges, to file the necessary papers with the Tennessee Secretary of State to create Textile Corporation of America, L.L.C. with Cagles office (4509 Highway 58 Chattanooga) serving as the principal place of business.

"Cagle then directed Bridges to prepare an operating agreement providing equal membership for Cagle and Karim in TCA and retaining Cagles own office as TCAs principal place of business. The operating agreement was signed on or about July 1, 2017 at Cagles office.

"With no financial backing from Al Rahim Industries or any other ready source of funds (including Ed Cagle who said his funds were no longer readily accessible), Ed Cagle suggested a loan from his brother Charles in order to purchase the Pikeville property. Ed Cagle separately undertook to secure these funds, and on July 7, 2017, Ed Cagle and Karim signed a promissory note in favor of Charles Cagle in the amount of $850,000 along with a deed of trust to the Pikeville property  both of which were again prepared and witnessed by Ed Cagles attorney Bridges. (An additional $100,000 was promised to Ed Cagle as a 'finders fee' and for accrued interest  making for a total lump sum payment of $950,000.)

"On this same date, the deed of trust in favor of Charles Cagle was filed in the Bledsoe County Register of Deeds, and TCA issued a check for $850,000 in full payment for the property. Ed Cagle continued to direct much of TCAs activities including negotiating a ribbon cutting ceremony with Governor Haslam and other state and local officials. In fact, the Sadruddins were unaware of the proposed ceremony until just two days before.

"Cagle assigned Troy King to deliver the speech on behalf of TCA while directing the Sadruddins to be as unobtrusive as possible. On July 24, 2017, Governor Haslam, along with other elected state and local officials, as well as state economic development staff, traveled to Pikeville to attend the ceremony. Cagle even sent his private jet to pick up one TCA official who happened to be in New York at the time. The event was widely covered by media.

"After the ribbon cutting ceremony on July 24, 2017, TCA officials drove to Chattanooga for an organizational meeting at Cagles Chattanooga office. During this meeting, those gathered discussed and agreed upon the terms of an operating agreement meant to supersede the original mentioned above. The persons listed below attended and orally consented to the following ownership interests and positions:

"Karim: 32.5%; CEO; Chairman Rahim: 32.5%; COO Cagle: 25%; President Donald Fiechter; 5%; Treasurer Troy King: 5%; Chief Legal Officer. In addition to being TCAs president and 25% owner, Cagle sought, and was permitted, to act as the general contractor for refurbishing and bringing the Pikeville facility online.

"On or about August 24, 2017, Cagle was paid an initial installment of $25,000 to begin renovating the Pikeville facility. On October 3, 2017, Todd Byrum of the ECD was provided with TCAs first draw request against the state grant - including reimbursement of $850,000 for purchase of the property/facility and a separate invoice of $1,406,900 for purported renovations.

"In fact, little renovation had been completed by that time. Proof of payment for the renovation invoice included a false Cagle Development invoice and wire transfer prepared by Karim purporting to show that Cagle Development had performed, and been paid, for the renovations in said amount. A copy of the invoice was provided to Cagle. Cagle would subsequently report by phone to Karim that during a pre-payment walk-through to confirm progress at the Pikeville facility, a local official told Cagle that checks could be issued as long as the work had begun.

"Despite the clearly insufficient amount of work relative to the invoice, checks in the amount of $850,000 and $1,406,900 were approved and issued to TCA on November 8, 2017. Karim and Cagle drove to Pikeville to personally receive the checks which were deposited to TCAs account. A week later,TCA issued a check in the amount of $950,000 directly to Cagle Development for reimbursement of the $850,000 loan from Charles Cagle and a $100,000 fee/interest for the four-month loan.

"On November 29, 2017, Karim submitted a second Cagle Development construction invoice to the ECD in the amount of $806,100 for purported work on the Pikeville facility  and received $728,100 (the remainder of the $3,000,000 grant less $15,000 for administrative expenses) for a total of $2,985,000 in state grant money. Again, the value of renovation to that point in time was much less than the invoice represented.

"The Sadruddins would ultimately, to the best of their knowledge, pay Cagle Development over $800,000 for construction work including materials  though they currently believe significantly less was actually used for those purposes. As more fully discussed in the PSR, TCA also received $230,000 in TVA grant funds for worker training and equipment.

"Ultimately, the Sadruddins purchased 10 sewing machines in or about November 2018 for $5,335 while also installing a new electrical grid, repairing large portions of the existing electrical system, and purchasing other furniture, fixtures and equipment. No product was manufactured before the project collapsed.

"Not long after the terms of the second TCA operating agreement had been agreed upon (July 24, 2017), Cagle told Karim that the federal government would be needing tarps and other emergency related equipment/supplies for storm victims following Hurricane Harveys August 25th landfall on Texas. Cagle directed Karim to source tarp suppliers while King procured a FEMA contractor number for Master Group  a separate entity which predated TCA and was owned by Karim.

"Consequently, on September 1, 2017, Bear Mountain, L.L.C., an entity controlled by Troy King, and Master Group USA, L.L.C., managed by Karim, but now including Cagle as a member, entered into a memorandum of understanding to partner in obtaining and fulfilling FEMA storm-related contracts. The MOU which was prepared by King/Bear Mountain provided that in exchange for Bear Mountain providing Master Group counsel and legal services and its previous help in obtaining a FEMA contractors number, Master Group agrees to pay Bear Mountain twenty-five per cent (25%) of net profits.

"On September 20, 2017, Hurricane Maria hit Puerto Rico, and by November 1, the Sadruddins, in collaboration with Cagle, coordinated a bid application to FEMA to supply tarps. As stated by the PSR, the Sadruddins had originally attempted to obtain tarps meeting all specifications including point of origin.

"Unable however to find sources other than Chinese mainland facilities capable of producing the tarps under pending time constraints, the decision was made to use mainland Chinese sources by the Sadruddins, Cagle, Scott Shoffner, and Troy King. Id. Master Group was eventually awarded the FEMA bid worth $30.7 million in the second week of November 2017.

"On November 17, 2017 (the same day on which the first Pikeville deed of trust was released after payment of the Charles Cagle $850,000 loan), Ed Cagle, purporting to act as the managing member of both TCA and Master Group, signed a $1.4 million promissory note in favor of Whorisky, Inc. for the purpose of obtaining funds for additional tarp purchases. (Whorisky is a 'high risk lender' from whom Ed Cagle had borrowed in the past and to whom, at the time, Cagle was in debt/arrears for his own dealings  unrelated and unknown to TCA and/or the Sadruddins.)

"The promissory note along with a new deed of trust on the Pikeville property was again prepared by Ed Cagles attorney Darrell Bridges and signed solely by Ed Cagle on behalf of both promissories. (The legality and effect of this transaction is currently being litigated in Bledsoe Chancery Court, Case No. 3343, and there remains the possibility that this property may yet be available for restitution.)

"On November 20, 2017, Whorisky wired $900,000 to the account of Cagle Development. ($500,000 of the $1.4 million was allocated - though not paid - to loan fees and Cagles existing but unrelated debts to Whorisky referenced above.)

"The following day, Cagle Development wired $800,000 to Master Groups account, while retaining $100,000. In total, Master Group shipped approximately 57,000 tarps to Puerto Rico before FEMA placed a stop order and terminated the contract in February 2018 for violating sourcing requirements.

"At all relevant times, the Sadruddins believed the tarps met all FEMA specifications except for provenance. According to FEMA however, the tarps failed to meet the thread thickness specifications  i.e., they were too thin. The thickness deficiency was unknown to the Sadruddins prior to federal product testing.

"Nevertheless, 29,000 tarps were used to mitigate property damage in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria, and another 28,000 are being stored on the island for future use. To their knowledge, no complaints have been otherwise made about the functionality or usefulness of the tarps, and the Sadruddins emphasize that they did not intend to deliver an out-of-specifications product and regret the error  though it appears the tarps usefulness was never materially compromised.

"Beginning in September 2017, the FEMA project had swallowed almost all of the parties time and resources. Meanwhile, the Pikeville project had been badly neglected. Cagle had more projects he wanted to pursue, but the Sadruddins turned their attention back to Pikeville. They found the renovation work at the Pikeville facility to be both less and inferior to what had been contracted, and on May 22, 2018, Attorney James McKoon filed a civil law suit in Bledsoe County Chancery Court on behalf of TCA and Master Group against Ed Cagle, his spouse Tammye Cagle, Whorisky Inc., and US Textile Sale, LLC. The complaint alleged numerous counts of fraud and civil wrongs regarding the parties dealings surrounding the Pikeville project. The case remains pending."

The defense attorneys said, "To date, approximately $1,000,000 has been returned to federal authorities and is available for restitution. Their efforts include the forfeiting of bank accounts, the sale of their personal residences, as well as the marketing and selling of the 'FEMA' tarps to third parties - all under the supervision of the U.S. Attorneys office. Furthermore, they have worked assiduously to maintain their legitimate business concerns and have made payments totaling approximately $30,000 from their general revenue of their ongoing textile distribution business."

Sentencing for the Sadruddins is Sept. 13 by Judge Travis McDonough.
Stacy Goodwin Lightfoot, an experienced professional with a history of working in education reform, has been appointed the University of Tennessee at Chattanoogas first vice chancellor for diversity and engagement. She will join UTC effective July 1.Ms. Lightfoot comes to UTC after spending the last 12 years with the Public Education Foundation (PEF), most recently as the organizations executive vice president.Stacy Lightfoot rose to the top of a strong, competitive candidate pool in a national search and is the right choice for this cabinet-level position, UTC Chancellor Steven Angle said.She will provide leadership in diversity and engagement work, including equity-driven initiatives, compliance and accountability for diversity and inclusion elements of our strategic plan. I expect her to challenge and inspire us to continue transforming our student-focused campus culture and dramatically expand engagement with our community. She will ensure our actions mirror our words.In announcing the selection, Chancellor Angle pointed to Ms. Lightfoots track record of innovation and support and her ability to leverage resources and partnerships in fostering meaningful and inclusive experiences that lead to student success. She recently concluded her third year as chair of the Chancellors Multicultural Advisory Council.Stacy brings a wealth of experience, insight and relational resources to our campus, Mr. Angle said. As a career-long advocate for students, she has an intimate knowledge of our student pipeline. As a nonprofit executive, she has operated in cabinet-level roles and designed, grown and led high-performing teams. The connections she has already established within the region will continue to strengthen our Universitys relationship with the city and the local community.A native of Chattanooga, Ms. Lightfoot began working at PEFa nonprofit organization that provides training, research and resources to teachers, principals and schools in Hamilton County and surrounding areasas a lead college advisor in 2009. Prior to being named executive vice president, she oversaw college access and success programs.I value relationships, and that is what diversity and engagement work is about, Ms. Lightfoot said. I care about each and every individual that crosses my path and what makes them special and different. Building relationships and trust are critical in the DEI space. I have been able to connect to a variety of networks and individuals enhancing my knowledge around systems change work and what it takes to change or create a system so that everyone who is a part of that system is elevated in some way, especially minoritized groups. That is what my lifes work has been.I am not only thinking about what this appointment means for me, but also what it means for the University, for the city of Chattanooga and for young women of color: To be the first woman of color in a cabinet-level position. It is life-changing for me. UTC is poised and ready to foster a more inclusive environment and build a more inclusive campus so that all students, faculty and staff members can excel and achieve by being in a space that honors and celebrates their differences.Ms. Lightfoots recent initiatives at PEF include being an integral member of the collaborative partnership team that co-wrote the proposal to obtain $2.89 million from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and spearheading the creation of STEP-UP Chattanoogaan internship program that supports 1,300 students.In May 2015, she was invited to testify before the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions on what low-income and first-generation students need to know to make informed decisions about college. She returned to Washington, D.C., in 2017 to speak to congressional staff about simplifying the federal financial form.Ms. Lightfoots professional career has included stints at Girls Inc. and College Access Center, serving as an adjunct instructor at UTC, mentoring many of the regions college-bound students and collaborating with diversity and inclusion experts across the state.There is a science and an art to successfully implementing diversity work, Ms. Lightfoot said. For example, there is necessary data to collect and understand that guides the development of the diversity, equity and inclusion goals of the University. This includes setting metrics and establishing the proper accountability and evaluative structures. It is impossible to do this work without forming strategic partnerships with campus leaders and the greater Chattanooga community to help advance DEI.Engagement is often an understated component in the DEI space. It involves understanding peoples differences to create the type of opportunities for students, faculty, staff and administration to feel that sense of belonging. Engagement is achieved when DEI is advanced and truly understood. The use of that knowledge is the only way we can build bridges.Ms. Lightfoot received a bachelors degree in communication from DePauw University in Greencastle, Indiana, and a masters in international service from the University of Roehampton in London, England. Her international experiences also include studying abroad at Temple Universitys Rome, Italy, campus and at the University of Technology in Kingston, Jamaica.Ms. Lightfoot is a graduate of Leadership Tennessee, Leadership Chattanooga and Harvard Universitys Young American Leaders Program. Her career honors include winning the National Association for College Admission Counseling Excellence in Education Award, the Southern Association for College Admission Counseling Myron G. Burney Award for Inclusion and Access, and the Girls Inc. UnBought and UnBossed Award. She also has been named a Woman of Distinction of Greater Chattanooga. She is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and the National College Attainment Network.The search committee was led by Valerie Rutledge, dean of the UTC College of Health, Education and Professional Studies.Tim Kelly, mayor, City of Chattanooga said, Stacy Lightfoot is passionate about education and has long been a strong advocate for closing opportunity gaps in our schools, as well as connecting students with employment opportunities through the STEP-UP program at the Public Education Foundation. She has been a steadfast partner with institutes of higher learning in her pursuit of better outcomes for all students, and her new role at UTC is a natural fit for her skills, expertise and commitment to quality education.Bryan Johnson, superintendent, Hamilton County Schools, said, I commend Chancellor Angle and the leadership at UTC for placing a focus on diversity and engagement. They are also to be commended for identifying someone with the gifts that Stacy possesses. Stacy is an incredibly talented leader that has partnered closely with the school district over many years through her work at PEF. She has spearheaded many efforts and has always displayed a passion for assisting many first-generation college-bound students with matriculation through post-secondary. This passion and her successes will translate exceptionally within the higher ed community. We look forward to continuing to collaborate with her as she transitions to this new role at UTC.Rebecca Ashford, president, Chattanooga State Community College, said, UTCs commitment to diversity and equity is evident in the creation of this new position at the university, and Ms. Lightfoot is the ideal person to fill this important role. Her collaborative leadership style and her passion for equity in education will serve the university and the community well. I look forward to furthering Chattanooga States partnerships with UTC by collaborating with Ms. Lightfoot.Dan Challener, president, Public Education Foundation, said, For 12 years, Stacy has led Public Education Foundations work to increase the number of Hamilton County public school students who go to and graduate from college. The programs Stacy directed were especially effective in supporting economically disadvantaged and historically marginalized students. Consequently, hundreds of students who might never have gone to college earned a degree that changed their lives, thanks to Stacys extraordinary vision, skill and passion.Ronald Harris, vice president of diversity and inclusion, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, said,Stacy is a passionate advocate for young people in our community, and her work has helped expand opportunities for so many. In our work together on the Chancellors Multicultural Advisory Council, she has proven that her commitment to ensuring all people are valued and respected makes her a valuable addition to the UTC community.Yancy Freeman, UTC Vice Chancellor for Enrollment Management and Student Affairs, said, Stacy Lightfoot and I have been colleagues for several years in an effort to increase the numbers of Hamilton County school students choosing to enroll in post-secondary education. She has pursued this goal with passion and enthusiasm. I look forward to our continued partnership in her new role at UTC to foster a welcoming and inclusive campus environment for students, faculty and staff.Jerold Hale, UTC Provost and Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, said, I believe Vice Chancellor Lightfoot will help advance the diversity of our faculty and student body. Our focus is on improving the retention and recruitment of outstanding faculty members and she will be a great asset in achieving this goal. Vice Chancellor Lightfoot is a highly respected and results-oriented leader in the community. I am looking forward to working with her.
Soubantika Palchoudhury had developed a new, more potent plant fertilizer and wanted to market it.

An assistant professor in the Department of Civil and Chemical Engineering at UTC, she filed a patent request, working with the University of Tennessee Research Foundation.

With patent approval likely, she wanted to establish a startup company to handle business affairs, but she wasnt quite sure how to do it.

Jennifer Skjellum stepped in to help.

My focus was on connecting her to additional resources that could help expand her business skills and knowledge and further assist with commercialization of the product, Ms. Skjellum said.

The first commercialization counselor at UTC, Ms. Skjellum steers faculty through the process of taking their ideas, research, devices and developments off the campus and into the wider market.

She works with them to find opportunities to pitch their ideas to potential investors and collaborators. She connects them with organizations that can help develop a marketing plan or build a website.

She also makes sure the final contracts are written in a way that protects the faculty members interests, both now and in future.

They need first to realize that they have intellectual property, and they need to think about protecting it and think that what theyre doing has longer-term applicability or impact, Ms. Skjellum said.

For Dr. Palchoudhury, Ms. Skjellum directed her to various people and organizations to help her create her company as well as market the fertilizer, which can increase the growth and yield of vegetables and fruits with a single drop.

Otherwise, to set up the company I wouldnt know how to go about the process, Dr. Palchoudhury said. She gave me a lot of advice, connections to make. She was a great help, a great mentor.

Ms. Skjellum was hired for the brand-new commercial coordinator position because its time to highlight the research and innovation taking place at UTC, according to Joanne Romagni, vice chancellor for research at the University.

We are growing up. We need someone to help our faculty realize their intellectual property and help them through the process, Ms. Romagni said.

Numbers show its working.

We have increased our patent applications 700 percent since she came, Ms. Romagni said.

Ms. Skjellum has a background in bringing different groups together to build a larger whole. In 2012, she was hired as president of TechBirmingham, a nonprofit that connected the Alabama citys tech startups and existing companies with corporations and others for investment funds and support.

In 2018after moving to Chattanooga with her husband, SimCenter Director Tony Skjellumshe was hired as director of programs and managing director of the HealthTech Accelerator at Co.Lab, the local organization that conducts the same kind of work as TechBirmingham.



Ms. Skjellum brought that knowledge to UTC, although the University offers different challenges.

Faculty members may be laser-focused on researchboth theirs or their studentsor teaching or writing and publishing articles in professional journals, she explained. With that in the forefront in their minds, they may miss chancesor not see them at all to patent or license or copyright their work, Ms. Skjellum said.

They may not be really thinking bigger picture, and thats one of the things I try to help them with. Where can this go? Whats the bigger use of this? How far can we expand it?

Part of that is they havent necessarily been trained to think that way.

One of her goals also is to show the Chattanooga community and beyond that interesting and groundbreaking research is taking place at UTC and not just in engineering, computer science and other disciplines usually associated with research.

Theres probably a misperception that the hard sciences are more likely to be in that category, but Im trying to get everyone to think about what theyre doing in terms of: How can what Ive created in the lab, or even if its a process, be turned into something more impactful and bigger?

"Sometimes its just, Hey, I noticed youve completed this proposal application, and you indicated that you might have a patent or you might have an invention disclosure here. Helping them tease out what is it that theyre working on.

Theres unearthed research going on here, and the intellectual capital on this campus is impressive.
Tennessee Valley Federal Credit Union is celebrating National Small Business Week by opening the Fourth Annual Idea Leap Grant where small businesses can vie to win $21K in 21.



Businesses in TVFCUs 13-county service area that have been in operation for at least one year and have fewer than 20 employees are eligible to apply for their chance at winning one of five grants valued at $21,000, $15,000, $10,000, $7,000 and $5,000. Full rules and the application are available at tvfcu.com/IdeaLeapGrant.



The grant is an extension of our Idea Leap Loan Initiative that was created specifically for small businesses in 2016 and is our way of re-investing those loan proceeds back into the community, said Tommy Nix, vice president of business and commercial services at TVFCU. Through the Idea Leap Initiative, we have funded more than $3.8 million in loans to emerging and early-stage businesses. We have awarded more than $125,000 in Idea Leap Grants to more than 100 small

businesses. And as a thank you to our independent panel of judges, we have awarded more than $10,000 in Idea Leap scholarships to two area technical assistance providers to help people learn more about how to achieve their small business dreams.



The Idea Leap Grant application is open from Monday until 5 p.m. on Friday, June 4. An independent panel of judges from across the community will review the applications. This years judging panel is led by Dionne Jenkins, vice president of diversity and inclusion at Tennessee Valley Federal Credit Union.



Judges include:

- Jennie DeCook, director, Tennessee Small Business Development Center at Cleveland State Community College;

- Emily Gilliam, credit analyst, Brightbridge Capital;

- Charles Fisher, partner/director, Grant, Konvalinka & Harrison, P.C.;

- Diane Parks, retired director of Leadership Chattanooga, Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce; and

- Danielle Landrum, co-owner of Locals Only Gifts and Goods, 2020 Idea Leap Grant Winner & 2021 Celebrity Judge.

The panel will announce the 21 quarterfinalists in early July, which will be whittled down to 10 semifinalists in late August.

"Well need the communitys help to name one of the top five finalists through the Peoples Choice Award text voting campaign," officials said. "The five finalists will then pitch their grant request during Startup Week Chattanooga in late October.



"For those interested in learning more about the Idea Leap Grant application process, TVFCU will host a special Virtual Idea Leap Grant Planning Workshop on Thursday, May 6, at 1 p.m. Dont worry if you cant join, a recording will be available."

Follow TVFCU on social media for details. Visit tvfcu.com/IdeaLeapGrant for business eligibility, rules, timeline, past event recaps and the application. Submit your application from now until 5 p.m. on Friday, June 4.
Edward Ellis, III began his work with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Chattanooga in 2014. Initially, Mr. Ellis served as a match support specialist, providing ongoing guidance and support to Littles, Parents/Guardians, and Volunteer Bigs on a regular basis. Match support specialists monitor mentoring interactions and offer insights and advice to ensure child safety, facilitate healthy relationship development and promote positive youth outcomes.

In October of 2020, Mr. Ellis was promoted to lead the agency in continued efforts towards DEI progress as the Diversity Partnerships Manager. BBBSGC is committed to being intentionally inclusive in who it serves, who it is, and what it represents to the community at large, said officials. As such, the diversity partnerships manager position was created with a goal of helping to establish and implement the organizations DEI strategies. The position is responsible for leadership and creation of diversity volunteer recruitment, training, and partnership strategies.

One of the main responsibilities held by the position was the creation and leading of the Diversity Task Force.

"I am excited to be leading this transformative work for our agency," said Mr. Ellis. "The Diversity Task Force is a phenomenal group that will help us achieve our goals by serving our children through recruiting diverse mentors and ensuring a culture and climate at BBBS of diversity, equity and inclusion."

The DTF is a group of community leaders, civic champions, and city influencers. The group will collaborate to recruit and retain underrepresented mentors and philanthropic partners to the agency. This task force will develop and promote policies and implement recruiting efforts that provide equal access and opportunity for organization volunteers, families, supporters, and staff. The Task Force will foster a culture that values the diversity of every member of BBBSGCs community and ensures all feel welcome, valued, empowered, and engaged, said officials.

Officials said, albeit a major and necessary addition to the agency, the mission at BBBSGC remains the same. It is a one-to-one mentoring organization that seeks to defend the potential of every child, while providing professional support for every match. A child may enter the program between the ages of 6 to 14. They may stay matched with their Big until they graduate from high school or turn 18.

In its 116-year history, BBBS of America hired its very first African American president and CEO  Artis Stevens. His leadership brings forth a distinct racial and cultural perspective, a wealth of knowledge, insight, and marketing expertise to the organization nationwide.

Below is current demographic information for the Bigs and Littles.

Current Youth Demographics Current Volunteer Demographics

American Indian  1 percent American Indian  1 percent

Asian  0 percent Asian  1 percent

African American  81 percent African American  18 percent

Latinx/Hispanic  4 percent Latinx/Hispanic  2 percent

Multi-Race  5 percent Multi-Race  4 percent

White  10 percent White  73 percent

Other/Unknown  0 percent Other/Unknown  1 percent



Currently there are a total of 63 waiting Littles including 37 African American boys, 11 African American girls, one Latinx/Hispanic girl, one Latinx/ Hispanic boy, eight White/ Caucasian boys, four White/ Caucasian girls and one multi-race boy.

While mentors and children are paired on many different factors, shared life experiences are an enhancement to a match relationship. This work ensures all voices are represented and empower Littles to fulfill their potential.

Building healthy relationships through mentorship is essential as it teaches youth how to navigate social norms, expand their worldview, and exposes them to positive role models," said Dionne Jenkins, DTF member. "By increasing the diversity among mentors, the Diversity Task Force will better assist BBBS with fulfilling its mission to ignite the promise and power of youth for all children in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program.

Here are the members of the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Chattanooga Diversity Task Force:

Tiffany Barnett-Burrows - Manager, Leave Management Center, Unum Life Insurance Company of America



Gena Ellis  Content Creator/Facilitator, First Things First

Lakweshia Ewing  CEO, Unlearn Everything and Live; We Over Me; Sankofa Fund for Civic Engagement

Kimberly Perry Gardner  Assistant VP, Accounting Center of Excellence, Unum; Current Big Sister

Miles Huff  Senior Director, Talent Initiatives; Chattanooga Chamber of Commerce; Former Big Brother

Dionne Jenkins  VP of Diversity and Inclusion, TVFCU

Quincy Jenkins  E.D. of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Chattanooga State Community College

William Ladd  Pastor FBCE8, Made to Flourish Leader, Current Big Brother

Jocelyn Loza  Owner & Marketing Consultant, Hoopla Marketing Now; President of Latina Professionals of Chattanooga

Dwayne Marshall  VP of Community Investment, Community Foundation of Greater Chattanooga

DeAndre Mercer  Branch Operations Manager, Enterprise; Current Big Brother of the year for the state of TN

Oliver Richmond  President, Kingdom Partners

Adrienne C. Terry  Business Development, Director of Event Services, Chattanooga Tourism Co.

Ricky Thomas  Dean of Community & Brotherhood, The McCallie School; BBBSGC Board Member

"I look forward to continued partnership with Edward and the Diversity Task Force," said Jessica Whatley, executive director, BBBSGC. "This group is already bringing so many ideas to the table that will ensure our youth can reach their biggest possible future and that our organization represents the communities we serve."

For more information about BBBS, visit bbbschatt.org
This week marks the kickoff of National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW) , an annual celebration of the contributions of the U.S. travel industry. As Tennessees #2 industry, the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development and partners across the state will unite to recognize the Power of Travel and the industrys critical role in rebuilding our workforce, restoring businesses and accelerating our states economy.

Tennessee is open and eager to welcome back visitors and help drive economic recovery, jobs and development in all 95 counties, said Mark Ezell, commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. While we are hopeful, we know there is much work ahead of us. Our industry will stand together. National Travel and Tourism Week is an opportunity to remind visitors and residents of the incredible contributions of the travel industry not just to our local economies and workforce, but to the identity and culture of those communities.

TRAVELERS READY TO VISIT AND TOURISMS ROLE IN RECOVERY

More than two-thirds of Americans are ready to travel and Tennessee ranks among the most-desired domestic destinations (Destination Analysts)

More than seven in 10 American travelers (72%) are planning a summer vacation or getaway  up from 37% in 2020 (Destination Analysts)

As of the week of April 26, nearly 88% have at least tentative leisure trip plans right now and over 71% will be taking at least one trip within the next three months. In fact, the typical American traveler is likely to take nearly 2 leisure trips by the time August rolls around . (Destination Analysts)

Road travel in the U.S. surpassed 2019 levels for the first time since the start of the pandemic in the first two weeks of April, but it has since slowed somewhat the second half of the month (Arrivalist)

This data shows how critical tourism is to our states revenue and to restoring communities. While Tennessees tourism industry fared better than most because of the states diverse outdoor destinations, many Tennesseans remain out of work. As of March 2021, leisure and hospitality employment was still down from 336.1 thousand to 292.9 thousand, a 12.8% year-over-year decline. In comparison, total non-farm employment only experienced a 2.6% decline over 2020. Jobs losses in the leisure and hospitality represent 52.6% of net jobs lost in the state over March 2020.

TENNESSEE TOURISM SNAPSHOT ON THE STATE OF THE INDUSTRY

Tourism is Tennessees #2 industry

Tennessee tourism marked a decade of growth with a record $23 billion in travel spending and $1.92 billion in state and local tax revenue in 2019

Those tax dollars support jobs, economic development and critical services like education and public safety

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Tennessee was on track for another record year in 2020. The travel industry is a significant contributor to the U.S. economy and exports, and supports millions of hard-working Americans

The pandemic is the single largest crisis to hit Tennessees leisure and hospitality industry, representing $303 million in lost state revenue between March and Dec. 2020. (Tennessee Dept. of Revenue)

Celebrated annually the first full week in May, National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW) was created by Congress in 1983 to elevate the economic power of travel in the U.S. The 38th annual NTTW (May 2-8) arrives at an opportune moment to recognize the importance to the U.S. economy of initiating a post-pandemic travel recovery. Please visit ustravel.org/NTTW to learn more.
Netflix is revealing fresh details about 1899, the new series from Dark co-creators Jantje Friese and Baran bo Odar. Production has begun on the eight-episode mystery series, the streaming service announced May 3. 1899 will explore the strange journey of a group of European immigrants traveling to America.

What is the upcoming Netflix show 1899 about?

RELATED: The Trailer for Netflixs Dark Season 3 Has Fans More Confused Than Ever

Friese and Odar are following up their twisty time-travel series Dark with a show about a different kind of journey. 1899 will follow the mysterious circumstances around the voyage of an immigrant ship from Europe to New York.

Heres how Netflix describes the series:

The passengers, all of different backgrounds and nationalities, are united by their hopes and dreams for a new century and their future abroad. When they discover a second ship adrift on the open sea that had gone missing for months, their journey takes an unexpected turn. What they find on board will turn their passage to the promised land into a nightmare-like riddle, connecting each of the passengers pasts through a web of secrets.

1899 cast announced

1899 | Netflix

1899 will feature an international, multi-lingual cast, including Anton Lesser from Game of Thrones and The Crown and Emily Beecham from AMCs Into the Badlands. Andreas Pietschmann, who played an older version of the Jonas Kahnwald character in Dark, will also appear.

The announced cast also includes Aneurin Barnard, Miguel Bernardeau, Maciej Musial, Lucas Lynggaard Tnnesen, Rosalie Craig, Clara Rosager, Maria Erwolter, Yann Gael, Mathilde Ollivier, Jose Pimentao, Isabella Wei, Gabby Wong, Jonas Bloquet, Fflyn Edwards, and Alexandre Willaume.

1899 is a truly European series with characters from various countries speaking in the language of their origin, Friese said in a statement. We feel very fortunate to have found amazing talent from all over the world to venture into this exciting journey with us.

1899 will feature different voices

The creators of Dark are back with a brand new series  here is your first look at 1899.



There will be mysteries.

There will be nightmares.

And most importantly: there will be surprises. pic.twitter.com/jOXYuGotc0  Netflix (@netflix) May 3, 2021

In an interview with Deadline, Friese explained that Netflixs commitment to shows in languages other than English made 1899 possible.

Netflix and the other streamers really opened the door to different content from different languages, Friese said. That barrier that used to be there, where people didnt want to read subtitles, that has really changed. Theres so much to discover out there apart from U.S. and U.K. content, its great to hear different voices.

Filming for 1899 will take place at Babelsberg Studios in Germany on a new, custom-built virtual production stage. The cutting-edge video game engine technology unlocks the ability to capture a significant amount of complex visual effects shots in-camera through virtual sets and locations, according to Netflix. The technology is similar to that used on the Disney+ series The Mandalorian, according to Deadline. It will make shooting easier given the constraints posed by the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic.

We originally planned to travel to Spain, Poland, Scotland, all kinds of locations, Friese said. Quite quickly [after the pandemic started] we knew that might not be possible in the new future, so we fully embraced the idea of bringing Europe to us.

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Michael B. Jordan was a leading man long before he starred as the villainous Erik Killmonger in Black Panther 2. Fans were used to seeing the action star as a loveable protagonist who went up against evil. However, his role in Black Panther allowed him to step on the dark side.

The Without Remorse star had wanted to play a villain before his role in the 2018 Marvel film, and to prepare, he isolated himself and went into a very dark place. Killmonger was volatile, extreme, and lacked compassion, which Jordan revealed took a toll on his personal mental health.

Now, the Creed actor is getting candid about a potential return to the Black Panther sequel, but things dont look promising.

Michael B. Jordan and Chadwick Boseman | Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney

When will Black Panther 2 premiere?

Amid the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and the shocking death of actor Chadwick Boseman who portrayed TaChalla in Black Panther, the Marvel films premiere schedule has been shifted drastically.

Marvel has decided not to recast Bosemans role which means the original script for Black Panther 2 had to be thrown out. Chadwick Boseman was an immensely talented actor and an inspirational individual who affected all of our lives, professionally and personally, Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige told Deadline. His portrayal of TChalla, the Black Panther, is iconic, it transcends any other iteration of the character in any other medium from Marvels past, and its for that reason that we will not recast the character.

For now, Black Panther 2 is set to be released July 8, 2022, but that could change since filming has not yet begun.

Ryan Coogler had to rewrite Black Panther 2

Boseman kept his battle with colon cancer a secret from nearly everyone, including Coogler, the MCU, and his friends and co-stars. Therefore, the cast and crew of Black Panther were just as stunned to learn about the actors death as the rest of the world.

After deciding not to recast Boseman, the production schedule for Black Panther 2 was shifted, and Coogler had to go back to the drawing board to rewrite the movie.

Ryan Coogler is working very hard right now on the script with all the respect and love and genius that he has, which gives us great solace, so it was always about furthering the mythology and the inspiration of Wakanda, Feige said.

TChallas sister Shuri (Letitia Wright) will likely become the next Black Panther.

RELATED: Black Panther Star Michael B. Jordan Revealed He Wanted to Play a Villain Years Before Joining the MCU

Michael B. Jordan says its unlikely hell return for Black Panther 2

Though Killmonger seemingly met his end at the original films conclusion, we all know that Marvel villains tend to rise for the dead. However, Jordan says it is not likely that the loc-wearing villain will be returning for Black Panther 2.

When asked how likely he was to reprise his role as Killmonger on a scale of 1 to 10, Jordan gave a rather diplomatic answer.

Im gonna go with a solid 2, Jordan said on SiriusXMs Jess Cagle Show. I didnt want to go zero! Never say never. I cant predict the future. Jordan also revealed what he knew about Cooglers revisions to the movie.

I honestly dont know much at all, he said. All I know is theyre developing a script that is a reflection of a lot of circumstances and tragedy that we had to deal with this past year. I know Ryan and Marvel are going to do the absolute best job at developing the story in a way that makes everybody happy and satisfied and honors Chad and moves forward with grace.
Is this the end of Counting On? Some people certainly hope so. Following the arrest of former 19 Kids and Counting star Josh Duggar on child pornography charges, TLC is facing calls to cancel Counting On, which features other members of the Duggar family.

Josh Duggar arrested, pleads not guilty

Josh Duggar booking photo | Washington County Sheriffs Office via Getty Images

Duggar, 33, was arrested April 29 in Arkansas. He has been charged with one count of receiving and one count of possessing child pornography, including material depicting the sexual abuse of children under the age of 12. He has pleaded not guilty.

Duggar has not appeared on TLC since 2015. However, members of his extended family star in Counting On, a 19 Kids and Counting spinoff that has aired on the network since late 2015.

The Duggar familys original reality show aired from 2008 to 2015, but was canceled after allegations surfaced that Josh Duggar had molested several girls when he was a teenager. Duggar was never charged with a crime related to those incidents, but did apologize, saying in a statement that he acted inexcusably and was extremely sorry. In a 2015 interview with Fox News, Duggars parents, Michelle and Jim Bob Duggar, confirmed that some of the victims were his younger sisters.

TLC faces calls to cancel Counting On

In the wake of Duggars arrest, some people are calling on TLC to cut ties with the Duggar family once and for all. An online petition at Change.org says that the family should no longer have a platform or collect money from streaming services and television series. Too many people have been harmed. As of May 3, more than 3,300 people had signed.

On social media, critics have also taken to commenting on posts from the network, demanding that it cancel Counting On.

Cancel the Duggars for good this time, read a comment on an Instagram post promoting the series Extreme Sisters.

I remember when the TLC channel was an actual decent channel to watch! The Duggars show and this show should be cancelled! another commented on an Instagram post discussing the show Seeking Sister Wife.

TLC says it is saddened by Josh Duggars troubles

I knew that I was a difficult person to be around. I was contentious, I was selfish and self-centered. Jessa and the rest of the Duggar family open up about their struggles through faith on a new #CountingOn special. Stream it now on @discoveryplus or tune in TONIGHT at 10/9c. pic.twitter.com/3drNCteaPi  TLC Network (@TLC) March 30, 2021

Showbiz Cheat Sheet reached out to TLC for comment about the calls to cancel Counting On, but did not hear back by the time of publication. However, in a statement shared with People on April 30, the network said it was saddened to learn about the continued troubles involving Josh Duggar.

19 Kids and Counting has not aired since 2015. TLC cancelled the show on the heels of prior allegations against Josh Duggar and he has not appeared on-air since then.

Members of the Duggar family respond to allegations against Josh Duggar

RELATED: Anna Duggar Opened Up About Josh Duggars Betrayal in an Early Episode of Counting On

Several members of the Duggar family have responded to the latest allegations against Josh Duggar.

In a statement shared on their website, Michelle and Jim Bob Duggar called the charges their son is facing very serious.

It is our prayer that the truth, no matter what it is, will come to light, and that this will all be resolved in a timely manner.

In a statement on Instagram, Josh Duggars younger sister Jinger Duggar and her husband Jeremy Vuolo said they were disturbed by the charges. They added that they absolutely condemn any form of child abuse.

In a now-deleted Instagram Story, Jessa Duggar said she was saddened to learn of the charges against her brother. She wrote that as a Christian she stood against any form of pornography and abuse.

If convicted, Duggar faces up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine on each count. In a statement shared with Showbiz Cheat Sheet, his attorneys Justin Gelfand, Travis W. Story, and Greg Payne said they intended to defend this case aggressively and thoroughly.

How to get help: If you or someone you know has been sexually abused, text HOME to the Crisis Text Line at 741741 for free and confidential support.
Good Girls aired for the first time on NBC in 2018. The dramedy follows the lives of three suburban moms who turn to theft when their money troubles escalate. The series currently stars Christina Hendricks as Beth and Manny Montana as Rio. In June 2019, Hendricks dished on how she and Montana interact when they arent in character.

Good Girls Season 4 stars Christina Hendricks as Beth and Manny Montana as Rio | Jordin Althaus/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images

Good Girls cast members Christina Hendricks and Manny Montana have shared several scenes on the show

RELATED: Good Girls: Is Rio in Love With Beth?

Since Good Girls debuted in Feb. 2018, some fans havent gotten enough of Beth and Rio. The mother of four met Rio and his crew when Beth, her sister, Annie (Mae Whitman), and her best friend Ruby (Retta) robbed a grocery store in season one. During season 2 of Good Girls, Beth and Rio decided to take their relationship to a new level. The pair had sex for the first time in the episode titled Pick Your Poison. Afterward, they continued to work together, and Beth stayed with Dean.

Hendricks shared with The Black C.A.P.E. Magazine that she enjoys shooting her scenes with both of Beths romantic interests. However, she admits that Beth and Deans intense marriage overpowers her chaotic relationship with Rio.

You know, I love the scenes, Hendricks says. Theyre such great scenes, and we have fun playing in them. And you know, as well as the stuff with Matt [Lillard] too.

Thats really intimate stuff, too, she continues. So, you know, [the scenes with Beth and Dean] sometimes gets even more intense than the other stuff [with Rio and Beth].

How Good Girls season 4 castmates Christina Hendricks and Manny Montana differ from Beth and Rio

During her The Black C.A.P.E. interview, Hendricks continued to discuss her relationship with Montana. In their steamy sex scene, the actors had to share an on-screen makeout session. The Mad Men alum shared that kissing her co-star was an easy task.

RELATED: Good Girls: Why Manny Montana Is a Fan of the Huge Cat-and-Mouse Game Between Rio and Beth

Hendricks also revealed that she and Montana never have any issues working together. Unlike their characters, the pair remain strictly professional on the Good Girls set.

Hes a great actor and, we have great chemistry working together, andHes justits just a very sort of respectful work, Hendricks said. You know, its funny because I know people love, they love it. We, of course, we love that. Its exciting and stuff, but its not asits much more professional than anyone would think.

Are Rio and Beth endgame?

Although Hendricks and Montana are drastically different from their characters, they continue to keep fans guessing about Beth and Rio on Good Girls. In season 4, the pair finds other ways to clean money, including Deans new car shop. Unbeknownst to Rio, though, Beth, Ruby, and Annie are working with the FBI to take Rio down.

According to Express, several Good Girls fans think that, despite their unconventional relationship, Rio and Beth are endgame. However, some Reddit supporters believe the pair only have their criminal pasts in common.

This is a show  a crime fantasy show, one fan wrote of Beth and Rio. I think, in the context of the show, theres a mutual attraction and fascination between the two characters, and each of them is wondering how far the other person can go. They enjoy driving the other to their limit.

I think they COULD become the Bonnie & Clyde people romanticize but wouldnt actually ever root for IRL, another fan shared. Applying norms to their relationship just doesnt make sense to me, since its not normal to be a ringleader of a crime syndicate nor for suburban women to enter said crime syndicate.
Greys Anatomy first introduced its fans to Addison Montgomery (Kate Walsh) in season one. In the shows inaugural season finale, Whos Zoomin Who, the show supporters learned that Addison is Derek Shepherds (Patrick Dempsey) estranged wife. At the time, Derek courted the shows central character, Meredith Grey (Ellen Pompeo). When Addison left Greys after season 3, her presence resonated with fans. So far, shes been the only doctor at Grey Sloan to land a spinoff show, Private Practice. Some Greys watchers shared that the following three episodes helped make Addison unforgettable.

Kate Walsh as Addison Montgomery on Greys Anatomy | Scott Garfield/Walt Disney Television via Getty Images

Some Greys Anatomy fans believe Addison Montgomery shined in Season 1, Episode 9

During the first eight episodes of Greys Anatomy, viewers watched the beginning of Meredith and Dereks relationship. On the first day of her internship at Grey Sloan (formerly Seattle Grace), Meredith found out that her one-night stand from the night before, Derek, was her boss. Derek moved from New York to Seattle to accept a chief of neurosurgery position. Despite their rocky start, the couple dated and attempted to remain professional around Merediths then-boss, Dr. Miranda Bailey (Chandra Wilson).

RELATED: Greys Anatomy: Some Fans Say Meredith and Derek Had Problems in the Early Seasons Because He Was Self Righteous and Condescending

Eventually, Meredith and Derek found their romantic groove. However, the couples relationship drastically changed in Greys Anatomy Season 1, Episode 9. In Whos Zoomin Who? Addison confronts Derek in the hospitals lobby. While wearing a black, elegant coat, the fiery redhead introduced herself to Meredith as Dereks wife. The scene is something that Reddit fans are still buzzing about in 2021.

Nothing beats Im Addison Shepherd, and you must be the woman who has been screwing my husband, one fan said.

The cadence of her delivery and the presence and ownership of the scene was simply brilliant!!! another exclaimed.

Fans also love when Addison called Mark Sloan a manwhore in Season 3, Episode 15

Addison and Mark Sloan started working at Seattle Grace in season 2. Before they moved to Seattle, Addison and Mark had an affair in Dereks bed. To make matters worse, Mark and Derek were best friends. In season 3, though, all three doctors interacted with each other at the hospital.

RELATED: Greys Anatomy: Why Patrick Dempsey Described Filming Dereks Death as Just Another Work Day

One of the fan-favorite scenes between Mark, Addison, and Derek was in season 3. In Season 3, Episode 15, Walk On Water, Addison, Derek, Mark, Dr. Preston Burke (Isaiah Washington), and Dr. Richard Webber (James Pickens, Jr) are in an elevator at the same time. When the doctors notice that Richard dyed his hair after recently separating from his wife, Adele (Loretta Devine), Addison scolds the male physicians for laughing at his hair. She also called Mark a manwhore and said Derek doesnt know how to be single because hes dating the perfect 12-year-old.

Lives with Cristina dates the perfect 12-year-old manwhore, always sends me, a Reddit fan wrote in the same thread, quoting Addison.

Other Greys watchers loved a scene between Addison and Callie in Season 4, Episode 13

Even though she moved to Seattle for her marriage, Addison and Dr. Callie Torres (Sara Ramirez) became fast friends. The doctors had marital woes around the same time, as Callies husband, Dr. George OMalley (T.R. Knight), had an affair with his best friend, Dr. Izzie Stevens (Katherine Heigl).

RELATED: Greys Anatomy: Eric Dane Explained How Mark and Lexie Came Full Circle in Season 17

Callie and Addison even remained friends when Addison left Seattle to join a practice in Los Angeles. When she came back to visit, the fetal surgeon noticed that Callie and Dr. Erica Hahn (Brooke Smith) connected while she was away.

Ultimately, Callie and Erica attempted to date each other. However, some Reddit fans found it hilarious that Addison saw the relationship coming. In Season 4, Episode 13, Piece of My Heart, Addison asked if Callie is speaking the Vagina Monologues.

How about when she knows Callie is bi before she does and helps her realize it! Love her intuition and support, one fan wrote in the Reddit thread.
Dr. Meredith Grey, played by American actress Ellen Pompeo, is the lead doctor in the ABC show Greys Anatomy.

Pompeos character has been through a lot since the TV medical drama first debuted in 2005. Originally part of a group of medical interns that fans collectively refer to as M.A.G.I.C., Grey has survived violent attacks, bomb threats, shootings, plane crashes, and the loss of her long-time lover and husband Derek Shepherd (Patrick Dempsey).

And while Grey navigated all of those situations with her trademark can-do attitude, long-time viewers of Greys Anatomy are still debating whether the titular doctor has been able to navigate motherhood with that same success.

Grey starts as an intern on Greys Anatomy

RELATED: Greys Anatomy: What Is Ellen Pompeos Age in 2021?

When audiences first meet Grey, shes a recent college graduate just beginning her internship at the fictitious Seattle Grace Hospital.

Greys character comes across as being calm, cool and collected under pressure. And most importantly, Grey is portrayed as someone who never wavers from her own personal convictions.

Meredith is the girl who put her hand on a bomb in a body cavity, explains Shonda Rhimes, the shows creator, in an interview with TV Line. Meredith is the girl who tried to help a serial killer kill himself, so that he could donate his organs. Meredith  and this is obvious  has a compass that has always led her to shades of grey. She does not believe in black-and-white, she does not believe in good or bad, she does what she thinks is right.

Following her personal convictions, regardless of what others think, leads Grey to choose to become an adoptive mother in season seven.

Grey adopted a baby with her now-deceased husband

ELLEN POMPEO as Meredith Grey | Ron Batzdorff via Getty Images

RELATED: Greys Anatomy: Merediths Daughter Looks Exactly Like Ellis Grey

Grey and her then-boyfriend Shepherd are caring for a group of orphans from the country of Malawi. A six-month baby girl named Zola is one of Shepherds patients, and Grey and Shepherd immediately bonds with the infant. He asks Meredith if they can adopt Zola, reports IMDb. [Shepherd] says he was holding her and she stopped crying [and that] he couldnt imagine her being with any other parent or family. [Grey is] stunned.

The two hastily get married in order to file the adoption paperwork, and at the end of the 20th episode of season seven, Grey officially becomes an adoptive mother.

After becoming Zolas mother, Grey goes on to have two more children: Derek Shepherd and Ellis Shepherd, the latter with whom shes pregnant with when her husband passes away.

However, Greys journey through motherhood has caused some fans to label her as a bad mom.

Greys Anatomy fans debate Greys motherhood instincts

RELATED: Who Are Ellen Pompeos Children? Her Daughter Received a Sweet Message From 1 Powerful Woman

Throughout Greys storyline, her constant conflicts with her own mother was a regular source of drama on the show. Once Grey became a parent herself, many viewers noticed a lot of parallels between Greys parenting approaches and that of her much-maligned mom.

Is it just me or does she just seem so IMMATURE to be a doctor and a mother?, asked user EngagingContent30 on the social media platform Reddit.

Another Redditor agreed, saying: Yeah she sucks. [] Meredith couldnt even take more than 20 seconds to interview her nanny.

The Hollywood Reporter even pointed out how Greys reaction to her husband dying was very much following in her mothers footsteps.

Similar opinions about Greys parenting began to peak in the current season, where Grey is in the hospital sick with COVID-19. In her near-death visions, Grey contemplates giving up her fight against the virus and leaving her children behind. With an increasing number of viewers saying this solidifies Greys status as a bad mother, others have begun to jump to her defense.

I personally dont think that makes her a bad mother, says Reddit user throw_havingdoubts, alluding to Greys coronavirus battle. The Redditor points out how many times Grey has suffered over the years, and how many close friends and colleagues shes lost. I know that mothers are seen as protectors of their children that would do anything for them, but considering all that shes been through including yet another brush with death, I dont blame her for being tired of fighting, he or she says. It doesnt make her a bad mother for feeling like she hasnt got any fight left in her.

Dozens of other viewers quickly chimed in and taking a more holistic view of not only Greys parenting, but also the parenting of all the other characters. Many pointed out that it isnt that Grey is a bad mother. We simply never see her actually playing that part.

Filming with kids is not easy, thats why we barely see them overall in the show, explains Reddit user Bubbly-Junket.

Meanwhile, a Redditor named dthomp0806 says, This show isnt about their family lives though. Its about their job. I dont really care to see their life outside of the hospital.
I Love Lucy was one of the most popular sitcoms of the 50s. Not only did fans find it hilarious, but it was groundbreaking on many levels. It featured a woman as the lead and in many ways revolutionized the idea of what a sitcom could be.

As great as Lucille Ball was in the lead role, she wasnt the only person who made the show successful. Also contributing were her other cast members. One star of the show was named Vivian Vance.

But as great as Vances career was, her younger years were full of obstacles. One of those came in the form of her own mother.

Who is Vivian Vance?

Vivian Vance | John Springer Collection/CORBIS/Corbis via Getty Images

RELATED: I Love Lucy Was the First Major Television Show to Feature Pregnancy in a Storyline

Before she became a television star, Vance was a theater actor. According to IMDb, Vance struggled early on.

Her first big break came in 1932 when she appeared on stage in Rodgers and Hammersteins Music in the Air for two years. Following that she served as the understudy for the great Ethel Merman and then nabbed a lead role in Hooray for What!

Sadly, Vance suffered a nervous breakdown in 1945. She took a break from the road and returned to California, acting at the La Jolla Playhouse. The move turned out to be one of the best breaks of her career. She was spotted by Desi Arnaz, who recommended her for the role of Ethel Mertz in I Love Lucy.

Vivian Vances role on I Love Lucy made her popular

According to Hallmark, Vance was initially reluctant to take the role of Ethel. She found the part too frumpy, and felt hesitant to play across from William Frawley, a man 20 years her senior, as his wife. She did take the role though, and it changed her life and career.

Ethel served as Lucys best friend throughout the shows run. While the focus of the show was typically on Lucy and Desi, Fred and Ethel were worthy supporting characters. They gave the show more depth, as well as two other people for the main characters to bounce jokes off of.

The duo became iconic in their own way. Much like you cant imagine Seinfeld without any specific member of its Big Four missing, I Love Lucy wouldnt have worked without Vance.

Vance wasnt Balls first choice for the role of Ethel, but its nearly impossible to imagine anyone else playing the character. That said, if Vances mother had her way, she would have never taken the opportunity.

Vivian Vances mother thought shed go to hell for acting career

Vance may have had success later in her career, but it was no thanks to her rocky upbringing. No one in her family seemed to support her decision to go into acting.

According to Closer Weekly, Vance was born to Robert Andrew Jones, Sr. and Euphemia May Jones, one of six children, in 1909. She grew up in the small town of Cherryville, Kansas. Vance loathed the town, mainly because she found it as suffocating as her own family.

A cheerleader at Independence High School in town, Vance longed to perform onstage. The person least supportive of the idea? Her own mother. She bluntly told Vance what she thought would happen to her if she entered that profession:

You want to be an actress, trying to lead men into sin? You are going to hell.

With this in mind, it appears that Vances story is one of perseverance. To enter a field as fraught with complication as acting is hard enough even when you have a strong support system. The fact that Vances mother was dead set against her going into this makes it even more impressive she was able to attain success in her field.
The 93rd Academy Awards aired on April 25, 2021. The stars who took home the hardware beamed after receiving their golden statues but their fellow nominees didnt go home empty-handed thanks to the swag bags.

Heres what was in those $205,000 goody bags this year.

Oscar statue is seen during a screening of the Oscars on April 26, 2021 | Lewis Joly-Pool/Getty Images

Who gets a swag bag?

In 1989, the idea of giving out thank-you bags was born when the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences started handing out such bags to the presenters and performers at the awards show. Several years later, the Los Angeles-based firm Distinctive Assets started putting together coveted Oscar gift bags for the nominees and stated that the Academy has no association with the freebies given out.

ABC News noted that some stars enjoy getting the gift packages almost as much as an Oscar. In 2003 the bags were loaded with goodies worth $40,000 and Queen Latifah, who was nominated for her best-supporting actress role in Chicago, said: Im looking forward to that basket. I cant wait to see whats in it. I dont care how much money you have free stuff is always a good thing.

Fast forward to 2021 and the Everybody Wins bags given out to the 25 nominees for best actor, actress, and director, are worth $205,000.

Whats in the bag?

So what did the nominees receive in this years bag?

The swag bags included everything from sweet treats like chocolate-covered biscuits to workout sessions with celebrity trainer Alexis Seletzky to a liposuction procedure with cosmetic surgeon Dr. Thomas Su to an NFT tribute to the late actor Chadwick Boseman.

In a statement Distinctive Assets founder Lash Fary explained: We did want the bags to feel like they had a bigger purpose than just, Heres a bag full of free stuff. So all of the bags that weve been doing have been from female-owned businesses, black-owned businesses, disabled entrepreneurs, and companies who give back  even ones that you wouldnt necessarily think give back.

There are also a couple getaways. One is to the Southern California spa Golden Door. Theres also a more secluded, Covid-safe getaway to the west coast of Sweden at a nine-room hotel. It doesnt get much more socially distant than that, said Fary.

This years bags were a bit lighter

An Oscars sign and statue are displayed on the red carpet area in 2020 | Mark Ralston/AFP via Getty Images

According to Forbes, this years Distinctive Assets bags value is actually $20,000 less than the ones offered in 2020 as it included fewer vacations to resorts.

Sir Anthony Hopkins, Gary Oldman, Viola Davis, Carey Mulligan, Sacha Baron Cohen, Glenn Close, Amanda Seyfried, Daniel Kaluuya, and Leslie Odom Jr., were among the celebrities who received the Distinctive Assets bags.

But they werent the only gift bags given out this year.

The DPA Pre-Oscars Lounge event, the GBK Brand Bar, and ECOLUXE Lounge handed out bags that included items from lifestyle brands, luxury handbags, health and wellness products, and jewelry as well as those luxury vacations.
In the Led Zeppelin catalogue, Houses of the Holy (1973) is one of the albums thats always received mixed reviews. Rock critics largely negative response to the fifth Zep album upon its release certainly didnt go unnoticed by the band.

Several reviewers pointed to Dyer Maker as one of the LPs duds. Writing for Rolling Stone, Gordon Fletcher called the track a pathetic stab at reggae that would probably get the Zep laughed off the island if they bothered playing it in Jamaica.

While that smacks of overreaction, few would argue Dyer Maker represents one of Zeppelins stronger efforts. As John Paul Jones once recalled, John Bonham was among those who didnt rate the track highly. And Jones said Bonhams performance reflected that.

John Paul Jones said John Bonham didnt try hard on Dyer Maker because he hated it

John Paul Jones and John Bonham (1948-80) of Led Zeppelin perform at the Bath Festival, June 1970. | Michael Putland/Getty Images

RELATED: Why Led Zeppelin Threw Out the Original Designer of the Houses of the Holy Cover

While Dyer Maker wasnt a straight take on reggae (see: Robert Plants vocal), Zeppelins power trio obviously went in that musical direction. The problem, according to Jones, came down to Bonhams distaste for the genre in general  and the song in particular.

John was interested in everything except jazz and reggae, Jones said in Chris Welchs John Bonham: A Thunder of Drums (2001). He didnt hate jazz but he hated playing reggae  he thought it was really boring. Jones felt it came out in Bonhams groove (or lack thereof) on the track.

He wouldnt play anything but the same shuffle beat all the way through it, Jones told Welch, adding that Bonham hated the song. It would have been all right if he had worked at the part, [but] he wouldnt, so it sounded dreadful.

That sounds like a sad fate for a song with a joke title (from a crack about the cockney pronunciation of Jamaica). After all, engineer Eddie Kramer recalled everyone enjoying Dyer Maker. And Plant seemed to have fun with his vocal. Yet Jones sided with Bonham on the songs quality.

Jones also noted his dislike of Dyer Maker

Led Zeppelin poses at Heathrow Airport in June 1973. | Evening Standard/Hulton Archive/Getty Images

When relating Bonhams feelings about DYer Maker, Jones noted that he agreed with the opinion of his partner in Zeps rhythm section. On top of calling it dreadful, Jones noted a flaw in their approach as musicians. The whole point of reggae is that the drums and bass really have to be very strict about what they play, he told Welch in A Thunder of Drums.

Yet Bonham didnt want to take any such strict approach, and thus the backing track suffered. In a way, Jones acknowledged Fletchers critique with that comment. (Fletcher called Dyer Maker totally devoid of the native forms sensibilities in Rolling Stone.)

Though the members of Zep were usually in sync, it didnt always work that way. (No one other than Plant considered reviving Down by the Seaside for Physical Graffiti (1975), for example.) So Dyer Maker kept its spot on House of the Holy.

A few years later, Jones was on the receiving end of bandmates critiques  Bonham and Jimmy Page didnt think highly of the softer tracks on In Through the Out Door (1979). Those were the ones Jones had co-written with Plant.
Oprah Winfreys life hasnt always been picture perfect.

When she was a child, Oprah experienced a lot of trauma at the hands of family members. Though shes been open about some of those harrowing experiences over the years, the famed talk show host gets candid about her abusive childhood in her new book, which details traumatic memories that have stuck with her all these years.

Oprah Winfrey during Global Citizen Prize Awards Special Honoring Changemakers In 2020 |2020 Global Citizen Prize/Getty Images for Global Citizen

Oprah Winfrey was abused by both her parents and grandparents growing up

For nearly four decades, Oprah has been living a lavish life as Americas Media queen. Though her days have been filled with happiness, love, and support since the rise of her career, the media mogul hasnt always had the best life.

While promoting her new book, What Happened to You? Conversations on Trauma, Resilience and Healing, on the Dr. Oz Show, Oprah opened up about her traumatic childhood, which was filled with abuse and loneliness.

During the virtual interview, the media mogul shared that, as a child, she suffered a lot of abuse from her grandparents and her mother.

RELATED: Oprahs Biggest Pet Peeve Is Gum Chewing, and Says Her Grandmother Is To Blame

She recalled one horrifying beating from her grandmother that left her bleeding through her church dress. One of the welts on my back opened up and bloodied the dress, Oprah tearfully recalled.

In another disturbing incident, Oprah remembers being woken up out of her sleep to her grandfather barging into the room where she and her grandmother slept together.

My grandmother and I slept in the bed together. My grandfather was in a room on the other side of the wall and one night in the middle of the night, my grandfather gets out of bed and comes into the room, Winfrey explained. And I wake up and he has his hands around my grandmothers neck and she is screaming.

Oprah recounted how her grandmother pushed her grandfather away and ran for help.

After that, Oprahs grandmother would put tin cans around a chair in front of the door so they would wake up if her grandfather tried to come back in.

And that is how we slept every night, she shared. Im sleeping, I always slept with, listening for the cans. Listening for what happens if that doorknob moves.

Oprah has traumatic memories of living with her mother

After her grandmother died, Oprah was sent from Mississippi to Milwaukee to live with her mother, from whom she suffered more abuse.

In her new book, The Oprah Winfrey Show host detailed her first night with her mother, revealing that she was forced to sleep alone on the front porch of the house they were staying in.

When I went to live with my mother at six-years-old, I did not feel welcome. The night I arrived in Milwaukee, the woman my mother was boarding with, Ms. Miller, took one look at me and said, Shell have to sleep on the porch,' Oprah wrote. My mother said, All right. As I watched my mother close the house door to go to the bed where I thought Id sleep, I was consumed with a terrified sense of loneliness that brought me to tears.

Naturally, Oprah was afraid to sleep on the porch by herself but noted that her religious faith gave her comfort.

I imagined a robber snatching me from the porch or someone breaking through the windows and choking me, she shared. That first night, I got on my knees and prayed to God to send angels to protect me. HE did. And that was my first lesson in learning other people (even your mother) can disappoint you, but God doesnt.

Oprah used these childhood experiences to strengthen herself

Though these traumatic childhood moments stuck with her throughout the years, Oprah has used these memories to give herself the strength to move forward and find happiness in life.

Everything that has happened to you can be used to strengthen you if you allow it.  @Oprah



Click here to enter for a chance to win a copy of Oprah's new book #WhatHappenedToYou  https://t.co/DSXVTHC0xA pic.twitter.com/vndhSz3s6I  Dr. Mehmet Oz (@DrOz) April 29, 2021

RELATED: Oprah Winfrey Once Reportedly Threatened to Kick Relatives Out of Her Home for Criticizing Gayle King

I firmly believe in this idea of post-traumatic wisdom, which we talk about in the end of What Happened to You? Oprah tells Dr. Oz. I now know from interviewing over 50,000 people over the years and my own personal experiences that everything that has happened to you can be used to strengthen you if you allow it. If youre open to it.

She continued, So, its because of my own mistakes and my own observations about life and paying attention that I now can live, truly I can say, the most peaceful life of anybody I know. But it has taken work to get here.
Its no secret the royal family is experiencing a rift among its members. Last year, Prince Harry stepped down as a senior royal with his wife, Meghan, Duchess of Sussex. The couple moved to California and has since been distant from the rest of the family.

According to reports, it does not seem like Harry will be welcomed back with open arms any time soon. The prince is allegedly shocked that he has been frozen out by some people.

Prince Harry | Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images

Prince Harrys recent behavior has put him at odds with his family

Harry and Meghan moved away from the U.K. and royal life to gain financial independence and privacy from the press. However, the couple recently did some things that may not have sat well with the royal family.

In March 2021, people around the world watched as the couple shared grievances in a tell-all interview with Oprah Winfrey. Harry and Meghan addressed the racism they experienced at the hand of an unnamed royal. They also alleged that the palace denied mental health care for Meghan when she was pregnant.

In the weeks following the interview, onlookers also accused Harry and Meghan of leaking information to the media. For example, Harry talked about his conversation with Prince William with Gayle King, and a source told Us Weekly this made William uncomfortable.

Additionally, the Sussexes were criticized for leaking information during Prince Philips funeral in late April. The couple sent a wreath as a tribute to Philip, and a source shared details about it. However, as a journalist for News.com.au reported, information about other wreaths at the funeral did not come out.

Prince Harrys family reportedly doesnt trust him

RELATED: Prince Harry Found It Difficult to Be Around Other Royals During Prince Philips Funeral, Body Language Expert Says

When Harry returned to the U.K. by himself for Philips funeral, there were reports that he and some family members had conversations with each other. However, according to an insider who talked to Daily Mail, the royals had to take precautions to ensure their words would not be misconstrued in the media.

There was no official wake after the funeral, but Charles, William and Harry took the opportunity to speak and catch-up face to face after many months apart, the insider shared. They were only able to spend a short time together outdoors given Covid restrictions and also without staff, including senior courtiers, overhearing what was being said. It was important to Charles and William that they were both there together. It means nothing spoken about can be misconstrued in the future.

Williams wife, Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, was present for some of the conversations as well.

Prince Harry is allegedly shocked at being frozen out

RELATED: Meghan Markle Helped Prince Harry Envision a Better Life for Himself Outside the Royal Family, Expert Says

The royals reportedly did not give Harry a warm welcome when he was in the U.K., and it seems the prince was shocked at this reception.

During a talk with a royal expert on TalkRADIO, host Kevin OSullivan said (via Express), We read that Harry was shocked by the frosty reception he got from some members of the Royal Family. Some literally turned their back on him. He was stunned by this  Im not sure why that was a surprise to him. It must be occurring to him how frozen out he is, how he has turned his back on his former life.

Expert Charlie Rae, who is a former royal editor at The Sun, agreed that he still has tension with the other royals.

I believe that this is a problem that will never go away, it will not be solved, Rae said. I do not believe that William and Charles will be extending their open arms again to Harry in the light of what he said.
Netflixs Shadow and Bone has fans absolutely smitten. The fantasy series, which follows Alina Starkov (Jessie Mei Li), an orphaned mapmaker who uncovers her hidden powers, is being praised for its fantasy and feminist elements.

Though the series had a wealth of source material to tap into, the Alina fans see on the screen is very different from the character in the books.

[Spoiler alert: This article contains MAJOR spoilers from Netflixs Shadow and Bone Season 1. Read at your own risk.]

Jessie Mei Li as Alina Starkov in Shadow and Bone | David Appleby/ Netflix

Netflixs Shadow and Bone is based on Leigh Bardugos Grishaverse novels

Shadow and Bone is based on Leigh Bardugos Grishaverse books. The first trilogy of novels are Shadow and Bone (2012), Siege and Storm (2013), and Ruin and Rising (2014). The series also crosses paths with books that occur in the same universe. They include Six of Crows (2015), Crooked Kingdom (2016), King of Scars (2019), and Rule of Wolves (2021).

The official Netflix description reads,

With the monstrous threat of the Shadow Fold looming, Alina is torn from everything she knows to train as part of an elite army of magical soldiers known as Grisha. But as she struggles to hone her power, she finds that allies and enemies can be one and the same and that nothing in this lavish world is what it seems.

Alina Starkov Sun Summoner pic.twitter.com/y3WVdeZXZR  Shadow And Bone (@shadowandbone_) April 29, 2021

RELATED: Netflixs Shadow and Bone Has a Connection to Harry Potter

Jessie Mei Li was the first choice to portray Alina Starkov in Shadow and Bone

When it came time for Bardugo and Heisserer to begin casting Shadow and Bone for Netflix, the novelist only had one choice in mind. The 25-year-old English actor has had smaller roles in projects like Strangers, All About Eve, and Locked Up Abroad. However, her role as Alina Starkov is her largest to date.

Li was not all that familiar with Bardugos Grishaverse novels, but she quickly got up to speed after her first audition. I had to sort of deep-dive read the books very quickly, especially the Shadow and Bone trilogy, and then Six of Crows, TV Insider. I wanted to just soak it all up during the audition process, and it definitely was helpful.

Bardugo was smitten with Lis work as Alina as soon as she saw her audition. When I got the role, I got an email from Leigh, Li explained. She sent me an email saying that she was so glad Id gotten the part and that shed seen my first tape and she was just like, I wanted you from the start, which obviously was just so encouraging from the creator, as it were.

"the Queen [makes] a passing comment regarding Alina looking Shu enough and [asks] Kirigan to translate good morning in Shu. When Alina tells her she doesnt speak Shu, the queen asks something that many Asians have [heard], Then, what are you?



This was based on my life https://t.co/NRlliCD9an  Christina Strain (@christinastrain) April 21, 2021

Alinas story in Shadow and Bone is very different from the books

When adapting Bardugos books and centering Lis Alina, Heisserer hired Christina Strain, a half-Korean writer, to work on the show. Alinas race was changed from full Ravkan to half Shu since Li is English and Chinese. In the books, Shu Han is a neighboring country influenced by Ancient China and Mongolia.

Alina experiences microaggressions and moments of racism on Shadow and Bone that Strain took from her own life as an Asian woman. In the series, Alina is also a bit bolder. She chooses to cross The Fold to follow her best friend, Mal (Archie Renaux). In the book, she is forced to cross.

Shadow and Bone returns a lot of agency to Alina. In Bardugos earlier books, the map-maker was always reacting to things instead of actively making choices. Her choice to suppress her abilities is a non-event in the books. Then, when interacting with Mal and General Kirigan (Ben Bares), Alina also chooses her actions and deals with the consequences.

I wanted there to be changes, Bardugo told Elle. I dont believe that a page-by-page adaptation is necessary or interesting.
One of the most recognizable stars of Netflixs Israeli soap opera Shtisel is actor Shira Haas. The 25-year-old has also gained fame recently with her turn in another Netflix hit, Unorthodox, based on the memoir by the same name by former ultra-Orthodox sect member Deborah Feldman. In the drama Haas, in the role of Feldman, escapes her Hasidic Brooklyn community.

For her part, Haas has had her own share of drama in her life, diagnosed with cancer at a very young age that she says made her grow up fast.

Shtisel and Unorthodox star Shira Haas | Rich Fury/Getty Images for Film Independent

The actor portrays Ruchami Weiss Tonik on Shtisel

Haas told Variety about her delight in learning the dark horse Israeli drama had been picked up for a third season on Netflix. Filming with COVID restrictions in place was daunting, however.

To be Ruchami again is amazing, she said. I gave up the idea of a third season, and suddenly it came back. Youre seeing all the people you know, but you cant hug them.

There arent a lot of people on set, and everyone is very careful. Definitely weird; its definitely different. But yeah, you know, the things we do for art!

Haas had to learn Yiddish  fast  for her role in Unorthodox

Born and raised in Israel, Haas speaks Hebrew fluently. What she was not fluent in, before filming Unorthodox, was Yiddish.

She explained to IndieWire that I went to sleep with Yiddish and I woke up with Yiddish. We spent hours every day. I recorded [her instructor Eli Rosen] and I watched videos and I wrote it on the page.

It was so important to me to know my lines well and to know what I was saying, so that when I came to set I wouldnt have to think about it, so I would be able to actually be in the scene. It was a major part of preparing for the role.

RELATED: Shtisel Star Michael Aloni Reveals How He Prepared For His Role as Akiva on the Hit Netflix Series: I Spied

Haas is a cancer survivor

In a recent interview with The Guardian, the petite actor talked about her diagnosis at age 3 with cancer of the kidney.

I dont remember anything of my life before [cancer], she said. From the age of three to six I was very sick. Being ill forced me to mature early. I started to write poems and stories. Of course, I wish it hadnt happened, but a part of me is thankful for what I went through. I understand pain and suffering. It shaped who I am.

She added that her discovery of the acting life in her teens gave her protection, and an outlet that she quickly found she not only enjoyed, but also excelled at.

Being shy by nature, I find that performing offers me some protection, she explained. Acting is exposing, but telling a story gives me a protective shield to hide behind. Nobody ever knows quite how many of your personal experiences are on show when the cameras roll.
The Pioneer Woman star Ree Drummonds eldest daughter, Alex Drummond, is married. She and her husband, Mauricio Scott, recently tied the knot. The Food Network host gave the details of her daughters big day.

Ree Drummonds wedding dress

The Pioneer Woman Ree Drummond poses with her husband Ladd (far right) and three of their kids | Monica Schipper/Getty Images

Ree wore a mother-of-the-bride dress by designer Jovani, reports The Pioneer Woman website. The Accidental Country Girl worked hard to get in shape for the wedding. She told her readers she was slimming down so she could look her best in the dress.

Ree told her readers she found the perfect dress for Alexs nuptials. However, she admitted to being frightened to try on the dress because she was unsure how the outfit would look on her.

I have my dress, but I havent tried it on yet, said Drummond on The Pioneer Woman website. Im too frightened. But I will, because guess what? I have started exercising and eating less, which Ive heard can maybe result in slimming down?

Alex Drummonds wedding dress

Alex went wedding dress shopping earlier this year. According to Ree, her daughter found the dress almost right away. After trying on about four dresses, she knew she found the one. Ree says Alex bought her wedding dress from Warren Barron, which is based in Dallas, Texas. She decided on a lace Monique Lhuillier wedding gown.

The dress is simple, but the details are so feminine and beautiful, Alex told The Pioneer Woman. Most importantly, it was comfortable enough to wear all night, and it twirlswhich was great for the dance floor.

Where Alex Drummond got married

Alex Drummond was married on the Drummond ranch. According to The Pioneer Woman website, she considered other venues, but she kept coming back to the ranch as the best option. She had a lot of good childhood memories on the ranch, so this venue came out top on the list of possibilities. Its where Alex grew up, and it just feels like the right place, says Ree on her website.

After the wedding and reception, the newlyweds and guests headed over to Rees restaurant, P-Town Pizza. They ate pizza, wings, and other snacks. A DJ was also there to play music during the festive occasion. Mauricio tells The Pioneer Woman that its Mexican tradition for a wedding to end as late as 6 in the morning.

Ree Drummonds marriage advice for Alex Drummond

Ree Drummond | Tyler Essary/NBC/NBCU Photo Bank via Getty Images

Before Alex married her husband, Ree gathered some of the best marriage advice from herself as well as friends and family. She put all the advice in the spring issue of The Pioneer Woman magazine. This is the advice Ree shared with Alex:

Although were told marriage is a 50/50 thing, Ive found approaching it as 100/100 is even better. There will be times when one of you cant bring or give as much to the marriage as the other, whether because of illness, fatigue, stress and during those times, its good to think of it as 100/100 so you can fill in each others gaps. Ree Drummond, The Pioneer Woman magazine

How Alex Drummond and Mauricio Scott met

How did Alex meet Mauricio? The newlyweds first met while they were college students at Texas A&M University. They graduated in 2019. Alex and Mauricio plan to honeymoon in the Maldives and then return to their new home in Dallas, Texas.

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Cherokee Nation citizen Kevin Baldridge, of York, Nebraska, shows off his winning design for the Cherokee Phoenixs 2021 Homecoming T-shirt.
If you've seen Reynolds' Hefty Ultimate Garbage Men campaign, in which muscle-bound guys sexily grip trash bags and say things like, "That gripping drawstring? So tight," then you've witnessed Brandi Pitts in action.



"It's a total test-and-learn environment," Pitts says of her job as a quasi-"marketing innovation scout" at Reynolds Consumer Products, which previously relied on more traditional marketing tactics. A classic overachiever, Pitts started kindergarten at 4 and interned at Ford at 17. With an MBA from the University of Michigan in hand, by 32 she was a marketing director at Northfield-based Kraft Foods, having stepped off Kraft's vaunted brand-management path in 2005 to join its emerging digital marketing group. "A lot of people warned me not to do it," she recalls. "But I said, 'Hmm . . . I believe this is where the world is going.' "



Pitts spent the next six years on the front lines of the company's digital revolution, followed by a stint as a partner at ad firm Ogilvy & Mather. But itching for new challenges, in 2013 she joined Reynolds, a company formed when a private-equity firm bought Reynolds Wrap, formerly based in Richmond, Va., and merged it with Lake Forest-based Pactiv, which owns the Hefty trash bag brand.



"Brandi's pushed us in a whole new direction," says Dave Bryla, Reynolds' chief marketing officer.



Her penchant for pushing boundaries isn't limited to her professional life. This music lover and trained flautist serves as a member of the Chicago Sinfonietta's associate board. No surprise that the group's opening night this fall featured the orchestra dueling with a punk marching band.

Bonus Points

Up next: Launching new social media campaigns for Reynolds in 2015 and perfecting her Grand Marnier souffle.

Motto: "Be the change you want to see in the world."

How I unwind: "Read."

Brigid Sweeney
"I feel like a lot of the energy behind what I do is often equally divided between competitive and collaborative," he says. "But all in a positive way."

The idea for stitching together Chicago's health-tech community was hatched on a plane to San Diego. David Schonthal had moved here so he and his wife could be closer to family. Working in health care venture capital, he was frustrated to find the Midwest scene so disjointed that he had to continually return to California for business. The four-hour commute allowed plenty of time for pondering such questions as "Why can't we do cool stuff in Chicago?"



Soon Matter was born. The health-tech incubator Schonthal founded with Andrew Cittadine will open in early 2015 in the Merchandise Mart, its initial round of 10 businessesfrom health IT startups to medical device makersgirded by $8 million raised from private and public sources.



Thinking entrepreneurially is not new for Schonthal, who has multiple jobs all involving new ventures. Outside of Matter, he's a professor of innovation and entrepreneurship at Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management; part of the business design arm of Ideo, a global innovation consulting firm; an angel investor; and a member of ChicagoNext, a private-public effort by Mayor Rahm Emanuel tasked with driving innovation and business.



Carter Cast, of Chicago-based Pritzker Group and a fellow Kellogg instructor, says his colleague is just getting started. "He's got a ton of talent and a ton of bandwidth. He's very effective."



One of a set of triplets, Schonthal says that experience has shaped him. "Being a triplet makes you both competitive and collaborative, and I feel like a lot of the energy behind what I do is often equally divided between competitive and collaborative," he says. "But all in a positive way."

Bonus Points

Up next: Teaching his 3-year-old daughter to ice skate.

Motto: "Chance favors the prepared mind."

Thing that makes me happy I'm a Chicagoan: "Cost of living!"

Kate Silver
Memorial Service for Carol "Sue" Woods will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 5, 2021 at Hawkins Baptist Church in Alex, OK. Carol "Sue" Woods, of Alex, OK passed away on Saturday May 29, 2021 at the age of 76 in her home surrounded by her family. Sue was born June 15, 1944 in Scipio, 
Coping with the COVID Crisis

One of the best gifts I received this past year was a face mask (because those were the kinds of presents that people gave in 2020). Printed on the front are the *updated* words of Protestant Reformer, Martin Luther: Here I StandYou Stand Over There. As a Reformation scholar educating students at Wheaton College in the midst of a modern pandemic, it was the perfect gift, levity included.

We have all been finding different ways to cope with the shock and grief that came last year and continues with the global spread of COVID-19 as the doors to our churches, schools, and businesses were closed, and our gatherings moved online. The losses piled up and compounded. Delayed weddings. Cancelled graduations. Unattended funerals. Disrupted education. Lost jobs. Lives cut short, most importantly. Pictures of the deserted streets of Chicago began circulating looking like something out of a dystopian movie. Only the microscopic could halt the bustle of the Magnificent Mile, as it turned out. The words of Renaissance Humanist Francis Petrarch, who lived through the Bubonic Plague, began to ring in my ears, houses were emptied, cities, abandoned

As crisis set in, those in church leadership struggled with the urgency of finding ways to sustain the ministry of the church safely and in the midst of so much upheaval to everyday life. The onset of a new virus pushed the church to embrace new strategies for ministry.

Caring for the Sick as Christian Witness

And yet, while COVID-19 may be a novel virus, the history of Christianity reminds us that the churchs calling to the sick and suffering is not novel.

Since the earliest days, the church has made it a priority to actively work for the alleviation of suffering for all, particularly the poor, and toward the hope of healing. Examples abound from informal care among early Christians of the Roman Empire to the establishment of the first public hospital in Rome by Fabiola in AD 394. Fabiola was a Roman noblewoman whose conversion to Christianity led her to sell her property in order to give to the poor and finance the founding of a hospital. She is regarded as the first female physician in Italy and was celebrated by Church Father Jerome for her service:

How often did she carry on her own shoulders persons infected with jaundice and filth? How often too did she wash away the matter discharged from wounds which others could not bear to look at? She gave food with her own hand, and even when a man was a breathing corpse, she would moisten his lips with drops of water.

Care for the sick continued through the work of medieval monastic orders and eventually led to the establishment of modern hospitals as society grew increasingly urbanized. You may not see a single episode of the long-running hospital show, Greys Anatomy, feature a pastor visiting the sick or a hospital chaplain providing care, but nonetheless, the church is still actively involved in hospital care today. Meanwhile, more and more of Americas churches are providing for the sick through the act of paying off medical bills for their congregants or even for their communities. Caring for the sick and vulnerable is, and has always been, an outworking of the Christian witness.

Christs Care for the Sick

Living out our faith by caring for the welfare of the human body represents some of the most vital teachings of Scripture all the way from Genesis to Revelation. Christianity unequivocally affirms the value and goodness of the human body as made in the image of God, as a good creation, and as destined for bodily resurrection and eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ.

Every step Jesus took in this world from his incarnation to his own bodily suffering, death, resurrection, and ascension affirmed the human body and its journey to restoration. To model ministry after Christ is to follow in the footsteps of one who cared for those sick in soul and body. Over and over again, Christs miracles did not neglect resolution for the needs of the body whether providing healing from injury and disability or addressing the realities of hunger. The Christ we follow not only gave freedom to the leper through healing touch according to his faith but also restored him to bodily inclusion within the community (Mark 1). The Christ we follow not only forgave the paraplegic of his sins but also made it possible for him to pick up his mat and start walking (Mark 2). Theres no leaving the body behind when it comes to Christian ministry.

How does that translate to today? What is the role of the church at this stage in the pandemic?

The Churchs Role in COVID-19 Vaccination

While cloth masks and loving your neighbor from six feet away have proven effective in temporarily keeping the virus at bay, these measures are no longer the best preventative solutions we have available. A long-term solution has emerged.

The development of safe and effective vaccines to curb the spread of COVID-19 means that we have entered into a new phase of the current health crisis (full disclosure: I am fully vaccinated as I write this). According to the experts, the end of the pandemic is close-at-hand due to vaccines that are capable of withstanding the rapidly mutating virus. In our context, the latest challenge is not so much the lack of a long-term solution and accessibility but the unwillingness to participate, and the church needs to rally.

This is not the first time that the church has been needed to play a part in combatting a widespread, contagious virus. The consequences of smallpox  death, disfigurement, and/or blindness  plagued the populace without discretion while debate over the risks versus the benefits of the procedure was aggressively discussed through Enlightenment-era Europe and North America. Unbeknownst to many is the fact that the rise of disease prevention in modern science benefited from the support of clergy such as John Wesley, Puritan Increase Mather, the Reformed clergy of Geneva, and Jonathan Edwards, who advocated for the sick and vulnerable in various ways and particularly to help combat the smallpox epidemic through the inoculation method. In some cases, their advocacy came at great costs to their own safety and wellbeing. Certainly, it played an important role in shaping public opinion and helping to turn the tide against the virus for their communities.

The support of clergy and the church aided the slow progress of immunization until improved methods emerged due to innovations by Robert Sutton in 1757 followed by the introduction of Edward Jenners cow-pox vaccine in 1796, which enabled administration of the procedure in mass. These developments were part of the process of eliminating the threat of smallpox by 1980 according to the World Health Organization.

The history of smallpox vaccination is a reminder to us that the actions we take today  whether as pastors or as members of a church  can be a gift not only to our own time but to the generations that come after us. Our actions today regarding the vaccine can be a gift not only to our own communities but to the global community, and that is part of what it means to be part of the Body of Christ that reaches across both time and space.

Not a Novel Calling

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This is not the first time that the church has struggled over these questions. Martin Luthers best practices treatise for ministering during the plague entitled, Whether One May Flee the Plague, has been making the rounds regularly these days and in direct application to current events. There he sympathizes with the understandable desire to flee death and the necessity of caring for the sick and dying by the church and her clergy. Though the circumstances vary, the principle stands: the church cannot abandon its calling to care for the sick and vulnerable.

The virus may be novel, but the churchs calling to care for the welfare of the human body is not.



The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Powell McNutt, Ph.D. (History) is the Franklin S. Dyrness Associate Professor of Biblical and Theological Studies at Wheaton College and a Fellow in the Royal Historical Society. She is the author of the award-winning book, Calvin Meets Voltaire: The Clergy of Geneva in the Age of Enlightenment (Routledge, 2019), and an ordained minister in the Presbyterian Church along with her husband, The Rev. Dr. David McNutt, Ph.D.
Seventy-four years ago, Carl F. H. Henry, the first editor of Christianity Today, produced his watershed volume The Uneasy Conscience of Modern Fundamentalism. This work represented Henrys clarion call for evangelicals to engage with the social ills facing the world, to apply the fundamental doctrines of the Christian faith to address the needs of society without being trapped into preaching a mere social gospel. Fundamentalists of the prior generation, he argued, showed a troubling reluctance to come to grips with social evils as they isolated themselves from the surrounding world.

Listed with aggressive warfare, the liquor traffic, exploitation of labor or management, and other social sins that Henry identified as too removed from fundamentalist rhetoric and conscience was, notably, racial hatred and intolerance. And this was, by and large, an accurate assessment, at least among those whom Henry here envisioned as fundamentalistsa category essentially white in its composition.

This assumption was not only shared by Henry and his contemporaries but by historians looking back on the era. Yet while the conscience of Henrys fundamentalists might have been uneasy under the weight of social isolation, there is another fundamentalist conscience of this era that has long been obscured. The self-conscious presence of Black fundamentalists on the early-20th century American religious landscape both interrupts the common historical narrative and, perhaps, might prompt todays evangelical heirs of the fundamentalist movement to reflect on their theological heritage.

The theological thrust behind fundamentalism ...

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A compilation of racial reconciliation resources and efforts as the United States continues to grapple with racial injustice and tension.

Image: Unsplash/Aaron Blanco Tejedor

Recently, I was invited to a dialogue hosted by the Agora Institute of Johns Hopkins University on racial justice and reconciliation efforts of evangelical churches. You can watch the conversation, which was described by the hosts as: This event will convene prominent evangelical leaders, including those working to build racial justice within the church, for a follow-up discussion focusing specifically on what evangelicals are doing and can do to confront this divisive moment. Evangelical Christians have been engaging in racial justice conversations across the United States. Many of these conversations were accelerated after the murder of George Floyd, which brought racial justice conversations into the mainstream. In addition to the protests exploding across the country which received wide coverage, churches and church leaders began to work together to understand, to learn, and to be a part of change. In preparation of the Agora meeting, we reached out to find examples of churches and leaders engaging in efforts toward justice and reconciliation and were pleasantly surprised to receive hundreds of responses. The following series offers a sampling of responses in five categories: church leaders and churches, individual churches taking action, training and curriculum available to help, some examples of denominational engagement, and ministry initiatives related to reconciliation. While there are far more initiatives and activities taking place than these, we can be encouraged that the conversation continues. Note: These lists are, therefore, intended to provide links and ideas, not full endorsements of all the information and efforts here. Note: You might also find helpful the American Bible Society conversation from Martin Luther King Day this year, called Repairing the Breach, including AR Bernard and Nicole Martin. Read part one in this series here. Read part two in this series here. Read part three in this series here.

In addition to churches and leaders engaging in efforts toward racial reconciliation, there have been many efforts by denominations and leaders to speak to this issue. The following are some responses we received regarding the work of denominations.

Wesleyans

The Wesleyans have collected a number of stories around the ideas of "humbly connecting," "intentionally learning," and "consistently acting." You can find these resources on their webpage entitled What can we do about racism?.

Baptists

Houston. The Union Baptist Association (SBC, Houston, Texas area) has a long history of working with various groups across denominations. The UBA currently is working with many other groups in an effort first brought to us by Justin Moore (@Jbradleymoore). Their first meeting was June 15, 2020, where over 200 pastors and leaders met. You can learn more by visiting their Facebook page.

Andrew Johnson (@thediscfan) echoed the thoughts about the Houston churches, adding this link from the UBA where Lawrence Scott, a church planter and pastor and a church consultant for the UBA gives 5 actions steps:

Steward the sermon

Leverage legislation

Commit to community

People of peace

Common confessions and commitments

Andrew said his church (@neartownchurch) participated with these other amazing churches. Keelan Cook (@keelancook) at UBA is also a resource there.

Southeastern Alabama. John Thomas (@cyberjohn) reported on the Southeastern Alabama Baptist Association on several conversations they've had as an association.

The first one was with Fred Luter, the only African American to serve as president of the Southern Baptist Convention and our local ministers.

Another racial reconciliation zoom meeting can be seen here.

Also, Dhati Lewis, founding pastor of Blueprint Church and Vice President of the Send Network at the North American Mission Board spoke with local ministers here.

Georgia Baptists. Dave Willis @davewillis told us about a meeting with Georgia Southern Baptists involving the governor of Georgia:

Pastor William Givens of Buckhead Baptist Church led a powerful racial reconciliation service at Buckhead Baptist church in Atlanta on August 30, 2020. This service reportedly featured messages by governor Brian Kemp, Martin Luther King Jr.'s niece Alveda King, and Executive Director of the Georgia Baptist Convention Thomas Hammond, and others.

Cincinnati, Ohio. Mark Snowden @wmarksnowden director of missions for the Cincinnati Area Baptist Association tells us he and Pastor Kirk Kirkland led a dialogue you can see here: Understanding Race in the Cincinnati Area: A Biblical Perspective

This conversation was described as " A pastor-to-pastor dialogue about biblical approaches to racial injustice in the Cincinnati Area. The host, Mark Snowden, CABA's director, brings together a panel that includes Kirk Kirkland, Revive City Church; Jeff Zurcker, Hope Church; and Matthew Lyons, who has his doctorate in biblical history. All live in the Cincinnati Area. This video is meant to be a short introduction to issues pastors can use in their churches to address race whether in urban, suburban, or rural parts of southwestern Ohio. It was recorded prior to Christmas in a time churches love to proclaim peace, but continue to experience separation rather than unity. God's character includes righteousness and justice, but for justice to be in place it must be acted upon."

The North American Baptist Conference denomination posted an article on their website entitled "What Racial Righteousness Is and Why It Is Important," a gospel-focused statement that said in part:

As we seek to be faithful to the mandate given by Christ to make disciples through evangelism and teaching, we recognize that we take this mission into a world that is broken and deeply fragmented in many ways, including by categories of race. We recognize that the body of Christ itself is also divided along racial and cultural lines. Unity that brings glory to God is needed. Thus the mission of making disciples who are being spiritually formed into the character of Christ calls for attention to brokenness due to racial division. . . . Racial righteousness casts a vision of biblical community that Scripture promotes but that is practiced too infrequently. It is also about casting Gods vision for the dignity of all. Representing God includes prophetically speaking against structures and attitudes that violate inherent human dignity. Racial righteousness is consistent with the notion of justice prescribed by our Lord, who calls not just for personal individual righteousness but justice to be done.

Specific actions called for include "affirming the unity of the church in the Lord Jesus Christ, promoting awareness, encouraging community, providing education, and positively declaring the inherent dignity of all people as made in the image of God."

Methodists

North Texas Conference of the United Methodist Church. Andrew Fiser (@AndrewFiser) told us about some work among United Methodists in north Texas. Hear Bishop Michael McKee casting a vision for a "Journey Toward Racial Justice."

Christian Reformed Church in North America

Calvin University, affiliated with the Christian Reformed Church in North America, is offering a course in March entitled Faithful Anti-Racism in a Time of Pandemic. The course seeks to inform students about racism and xenophobia while equipping them to "critically discern its impact on COVID-19." It states further:

You'll explore the ways that theology and politics work to support or dismantle current racial disparities. You'll develop faithful anti-racist responses to our present moment and recognize patterns of racist practices, structures and ideologies.
One day soon the pandemic may be past, and COVID-19, a memory. But the traumafrom the isolation, seeing people die, facing financial stress, and living with loss and the anxiety of the unknownwill continue for a long time to come.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the percentage of American adults with recent symptoms of anxiety and depressive disorders increased more than 5 points between the summer of 2020 and the spring of 2021. One out of every 10 people reports having an unmet mental health care need.

Were going to see this level of trauma for many years," said Nicole Martin, executive director of trauma healing at the American Bible Society (ABS). Its not just going to go away when everyone is vaccinated and everyone is allowed inside.

Martin and the American Bible Society want to meet that need with trauma-informed Bible reading, teaching people about healing from trauma using Scripture.

A recent ABS-commissioned study by Baylor University researchers found that combining education about mental health best practices with Bible reading can have a significant benefit. In their study, this reduced the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder and increased forgiveness, compassion, and sense of purpose.

As America experiences a mental health crisis, this study shows the potential benefits of faith-sensitive care for traumatized people, said Robert L. Briggs, ABS president and CEO. The Bible has been shown to be a vital source for emotional, spiritual, physical, and mental healing.

The study looked at the effectiveness of the ABS curriculum Healing the Wounds of Trauma, taught inside Riverside Regional Jail in North Prince George, Virginia.

A group of 210 incarcerated men and women volunteered to take the five-session program, where trained facilitators read Scripture with participants and walk them through a process of identifying their pain, sharing it, and bringing their trauma to the cross of Christ for healing, so they can be freed to care for themselves and serve others. The participants answered questions about themselves and their mental health before, immediately after, one month after, and three months after finishing the program. Another group of 139 incarcerated people volunteered to take the survey without going through the program.

Comparing the two groups, researchers found that the program showed statistically significant results.

Whenever someone says that a particular program is remarkably effective based on the success rate of participants, they dont have an answer to the question, Compared to what? said Byron R. Johnson, one of the three researchers at Baylor University's Institute for Studies of Religion who worked on the study. Having a control group that is comparable to the experimental group allows us to determine if the intervention is having an independent or unique effect.

The study groups were broken up into 22 cohorts, 10 male and 12 female. Participants were about half white and half Black, and ranged in age from 18 to 65. Most were in the Virginia jail for a parole or probation violation, and they had been to jail, on average, five or six times. The control group was fairly similar, though they were less likely to be Christian, be married, or have committed a violent offense.

The study showed that the group that went through the program saw a drop in feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger, along with complicated grief, which includes denial of traumatic events, negative affect, and avoiding activities associated with trauma. They also had less depression and fewer suicidal thoughts.

At the same time, compared to the control group, the people in the study experienced an increase in feelings of forgiveness and compassion, and reported increased rates of resiliency.

Johnson said he and his fellow Baylor researchers, Sung Joon Jang and Matt Bradshaw, expected to see some differences. But they didnt anticipate how clear it would be, even immediately after the program finished.

We saw a reduction in PTSD symptoms, an increase in emotional well-being, and an improvement in attitudes toward God and the Bible, he said.

The impact may not be as clear in the general population as it is for incarcerated people, according to Johnson. People in jail have typically experienced more trauma in their lives, and there are demographic differences and different contexts that make extrapolation from the study uncertain. But Johnson said the curriculum wasnt designed specifically for prisons, and he would expect to see trauma-informed Bible reading have similar impacts on everyone.

Heath Lambert, the author of numerous books on biblical counseling, said this makes sense if you realize how much the Bible speaks to trauma, isolation, alienation, and crisis.

Thats just what the Bible was written to address," said Lambert, an associate professor at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, in Louisville, Kentucky, and senior pastor of First Baptist Church of Jacksonville, Florida. The Bible explodes with relevance.

Lambert has seen firsthand some of the traumatic impact the pandemic has had on people. Some in his church have lost loved ones. Many are dealing with unbearable lonelinessseparated from their church and their families.

That is isolating and hard and wounding, he said. Ive talked to these people on the phone, and theyre in tears.

Church can be a practical solution to loneliness and isolation, according to Lambert. But with the Bible, Christian ministers can also help people meet a sovereign God who is in control and loves them personally.

The church addresses the fear problem by talking about a big God who holds the world, he said.

While its still hard to say anything definitively at this point, Lambert said he expects that there will be an increase in the number of people who come to church after the pandemic, because theyre searching for answers and community.

ABS wants to help churches be prepared, with Bible-based material that helps people work through trauma.

It changes the way you think, Martin said. It changes how you think about pain. It changes how you think about suffering.

And though the immediate suffering of the pandemic may soon be over, the need to address trauma didnt start with COVID-19 and will continue long after.

All of us have wounds. All of us have pain, Martin said. The invitation to meet the Wounded Healer through the Bible has the power to change lives.
Canadian dad jailed for objecting to teen daughter taking testosterone is released on bail

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A Canadian father who was jailed after breaking a gag order for publicly objecting to his trans-identifying teenage daughter being prescribed testosterone has been released.

Robert Hoogland of British Columbia was sentenced to six additional months in jail last month after he decided to break a court order that forbade him from identifying himself publicly, voicing his objections to his teenage daughter taking testosterone. Hoogland, who is referred to as "CD" in court documents, was released on bail with several conditions.

The British Columbia Court of Appeal granted Hoogland's application to be released on bail pending the hearing of his appeal on the six months jail sentence that was handed down last month following his entering of a guilty plea to criminal contempt of court.

Sources close to the matter told The Christian Post on Saturday that the terms and conditions of his bail stipulate that he keep the peace and be of good behavior, maintain his employment and remain within the province of British Columbia. Hoogland must also surrender his travel document, pursue the appeal, and abide by the orders that have been made in the Supreme Court of British Columbia in his case.

He is not permitted to directly or indirectly through a third party, publish, broadcast or transmit any information that could disclose his daughter's gender identity, physical and mental health, medical status or treatments of her identity, himself or her mother, and the identities of several other individuals that are relevant to the case. The terms also stipulate that he is to show up at the sheriff's office at the Law Courts in Vancouver on Nov. 1 or on the date that is set for his conviction appeal, whichever comes first.

Sources told CP that Rebel News Network has filed an application for all the parties in the case to vacate the media ban on Hoogland and various aspects of the litigation. This application will be heard in Vancouver Supreme Court in June before Justice Michael Tammen, the same justice that handed down Hoogland's sentence. Hoogland reportedly supports Rebel News' application.

The Canadian father's plight has been among the more visible cases amid increasing scrutiny of the medicalization of gender in minors (the prescribing of puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones) worldwide.

On Tuesday, the Texas state Senate approved a bill that would ban genital mutilation surgeries, cross-sex hormones and puberty blockers for youth younger than 18. The bill has now moved to the House Calendars Committee, where it's "making the rounds" among its 11 members who decide which bills will go to the floor for consideration, The Christian Post was told Monday.

Similar legislation was recently adopted in neighboring Arkansas. A handful of other states are considering similar bills.

The legislative push in Texas has emerged, in part, because of the plight of James Younger, a young boy whose mother is intent on chemically transitioning him to look like a girl and name him Luna, despite the objections of his father, Jeff Younger. The pending legislation in the Lone Star state is colloquially known as the "Save James" bill.

The bitter custody battle over the boy  who was 7 years old when the ordeal first began  and his medical care made national headlines in the fall of 2019. A court hearing in the ongoing dispute was scheduled for April 23 but was delayed until early July. Sources say that Jeff Younger might face a similar fate as Hoogland has in light of the legal dynamics of the case.

Curators of the "Save James" Facebook page, which was set up by friends of Younger, said last month that lawyers for Younger's ex-wife intend to argue that Younger should be stripped of his parental rights, lose the ability to be notified when his ex-wife makes medical or psychological decisions for James and his twin brother, Jude, be imprisoned for six months, placed on probation for 10 years, have reduced custody of the boys, and pay for all attorneys' fees.

For his part, Hoogland, the father in Canada, has maintained throughout his ordeal that his daughter's long-term health is in danger, given the lasting effects of cross-sex hormones on the female body. His daughter is said to be 15 years old.

She can never go back to being a girl in the healthy body that she should have had. Shes going to forever have a lower voice. Shell forever have to shave because of facial hair. She wont be able to have children, he said in a gag order-breaking exclusive interview with the Federalist last year.

One of the known effects of higher-level testosterone use in females is the loss of fertility.

Sometimes I just want to scream so that other parents and people will  jump in, understand whats going on.






Hillsong disappointed after Darnell Barrett resigns in wake of explicit photos

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Hillsong East Coast has expressed disappointment over the recent resignation of Darnell Barrett, creative director of Hillsong Church Montclair in New Jersey, who claims he accidentally sent explicit photos to a former church volunteer and confessed to being unfaithful to his wife.

Darnell Barrett, the creative oversight for Hillsong East Coasts Montclair location (New York), resigned on Tuesday (April 27, 2021). Hillsong accepted his resignation and agreed that he could not continue as part of our team. We were disappointed to learn about choices he made that were unacceptable for any Hillsong staff member, the church said in a statement.

We recognize that there are countless Hillsong Church staff members and volunteers who carry their responsibilities with trustworthiness, integrity, and excellence. They represent the heart of Hillsong Church, and we thank them for the work they do. We also take seriously our responsibility to ensure that our staff is equally committed to creating a safe and Christ-centered environment where all people feel welcome.

Barrett, a 32-year-old father and U.S. Navy veteran, confirmed his resignation to The DailyMail last week after acknowledging that he shared lewd workout photos of himself wearing nothing but tights that showed a bulge in his pants in a message that was also sent to a former volunteer on Instagram last month.

Barrett said the photos were shared with a close friends group in which he provides updates on his battle with depression and anxiety. He shared the images, he said, as part of a gym challenge, and the former Hillsong volunteer, who was not named, was included by accident.

Yeah, it shows me with my leggings on, he admitted.

This was something that was just an honest mistake, and I informed my wife as soon as it happened, he explained to DailyMail.com. I was not at all trying to lure her. I get that she, within the context of what's happening with Hillsong, that she would draw those conclusions. But I barely know her. That was not my intention.

However, the former volunteer accused Barrett of knowing what he was doing and insisted he was fishing for sexual prey in messages shared with DailyMail.com.

She explained that she barely knew Barrett when she volunteered for Hillsong from 2014 to 2016, yet he reached out to her earlier this year, saying he was heading to the state where she had moved.

While she didnt report Barretts actions to Hillsong, she said another member did.

Barrett confirmed to The Daily Mail last Tuesday that he is stepping down from Hillsong and cited infidelity in his marriage. He stated that he and his wife are trying to work through their problems and insisted that he shared the photo in question accidentally.

We thought it was best for me to move on, he was quoted as saying. I don't want to get into the details.

Earlier this month, Hillsong Church Global Senior Pastor Brian Houston announced a pause in the operation of Hillsong Dallas after an investigation of former Lead Pastor Reed Bogard and his wife, Jess.

For months, Houston has struggled to repair the image of the U.S. arm of his Australia-based church following a series of sex and financial scandals.

Since last November, the church has had to publicly address complaints about inappropriate sexual relations between staff and volunteers at Hillsong NYC, which led to the dismissal of its then-lead pastor Carl Lentz.

The embattled Australia-based church network has also had to deal with an investigation of an assault on Anna Crenshaw, a Philadelphia pastors daughter, in Australia.
John Piper: Ravi Zacharias turned 'position of power' into 'neediness and woundedness'

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John Piper has weighed in on the misdeeds of late apologist Ravi Zacharias and identified the lessons Christians can learn from his posthumous fall from grace after he was accused of sexting, unwanted touching, spiritual abuse, and rape.

Theres a lesson to be learned from Ravis manipulation of people  a lesson to be learned about the need for tethered sympathy, Piper, chancellor of Bethlehem College & Seminary in Minneapolis, Minnesota, wrote on his Desiring God website.

Piper explained that every time sympathy is called for, it needs to be tethered to the truth, so that it is given lavishly when the truth calls for it and is withheld when the truth clashes with it.

How did [Ravi] manipulate people into sinfully providing him with sexual stimulation? He did it by demanding untethered sympathy. He portrayed himself as an embattled, burdened, wounded warrior in the righteous cause of the gospel. And ironically, he turned his position of power into a form of neediness and woundedness. And then he tried to coerce untethered sympathy under the guise of calling for kingdom therapy for the wounded warrior.

Piper said he had seen this kind of demand and manipulation for untethered sympathy repeatedly among fallen Christian leaders.

[They say], The burdens are so great. The wounds are so many. Those who understand me are so few. The weight of faithful ministry  oh, it is so great. I deserve some relief. Have some sympathy on this poor, wounded warrior. Empathize with your embattled hero. I need your body if Im to carry on in the Lords work, Piper paraphrased.

To which the administrative assistant or the old college flame or the teenage boy in the locker room should say, Thats disgusting. Dont ever talk to me like that again. My sympathy is not for sale; its tethered to truth and righteousness.

To those who came to Christ under Zacharias ministry or who had their faith mightily strengthened by what he taught, Piper advised: Dont let the imperfections and failures of men turn you away from the perfections and the triumphs of Christ, who will never, never fail you.

An investigation released earlier this year found credible evidence of a long pattern of abusive behavior by Zacharias, one of the most recognizable figures in American Christianity for decades.

The report found that the apologist, the founder of Ravi Zacharias International Ministries, who died last May, coerced massage therapists at a spa he co-owned to perform sexual acts. It also uncovered a collection of explicit photos  many of them of much younger women  found in Zacharias possession.

One woman told the investigators that after he arranged for the ministry to provide her with financial support, he required sex from her.

She told investigators Zacharias made her pray with him to thank God for the opportunity they both received. Zacharias reportedly warned her that if she ever spoke out against him, she would be responsible for millions of souls lost if his reputation was damaged.

Following the release of the report, numerous publishers pulled Zacharias books, while RZIM was forced to restructure and change its name.

In an interview with The Christian Post, bestselling author and pastor Michael Youssef said Zacharias downfall is a sobering reminder that accountability must be a significant pillar of ministry.

Accountability is a word that's almost a dirty word among some of the celebrity preachers, and that's got to come back, he said. Whether a church has 10 members, 100 members or 10,000 members, he must have accountability. This is a word that is lost in todays churches and must be returned to our vocabulary.

New York-based pastor Tim Keller told CP earlier this month that when pastors get to be well-known, the praise can turn their heads, the criticism can prompt self-pity and the overwork can cause them to neglect their prayer life.

For all those reasons, very often, so-called celebrity ministers and figures very often live lives less consistent with the Christian faith than Christians who are not so famous, Keller said.

It's the job of the so-called famous Christians to just live ordinary, good Christian lives, and not overwork and burn out and get filled with self-pity and anger over all the people that are criticizing them. Thats the thing that sets them up for these things where they embezzle money, they have affairs or they do things like that.

While Christian leaders who have not been faithful or responsible with the platform God has given them must be held accountable, Keller stressed their moral failure doesn't mean that the Christian faith doesn't work.

A quack doctor doesn't mean that medicine is illegitimate. A quack evangelist doesn't mean that the Gospel isn't true, he said. So, on one hand, dont make excuses for your heroes. On the other hand, it doesnt mean that everything theyve ever said is illegitimate.
Nigerian church destroyed by Fulani rebuilt with help of American pastor: It brings healing and hope

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Five years after Fulani herdsmen destroyed a Nigerian church in a raid that killed hundreds, an American pastor and attorney helped rebuild the church in time for Easter Sunday, which brought hope and healing in the midst of a very murderous regime.

New York City Pastor William P.B. Devlin, CEO of the nongovernmental organization REDEEM!; and Emmanuel Ogebe, an international human rights lawyer from the U.S.-based Nigeria Law Group, partnered together to help mend the hurting Agatu community in the Benue state of Nigeria.

The two men helped raise funds to rebuild the community's destroyed Methodist church after a tragedy struck five years ago.

Healing and hope: those are two great words that weve seen in a very practical way, Devlin, the missions pastor at Infinity Bible Church in the Bronx, told The Christian Post in an interview.

Fulani attackers destroyed and burned the Agatu Methodist Church in February 2016. They killed five church members, hundreds of Agatu community members and destroyed over 70 homes.

In October 2020, Devlin visited Agatu and promised the church members that by faith and by Gods grace and with hope in the Lord Jesus, the church will be completely finished by March 25, and then we will be in the finished church by Resurrection Day Sunday services [on April 4]."

"And were going to have a great celebration," Devlin recalled telling the Agatu community at the time.

When he visited in October, Devlin said there were goats eating grass in the ruins of the church building where worshipers still met under a canopy of grass to protect them from the sun.

I looked in [the church] and I saw the goats eating the grass, and I was like, what is this? And it just touched my heart. , he said. For the past five years, the church has just struggled along.

Devlin told the church members, this is now a place for the goats, but Gods going to make it a place for the sheep.

Devlin returned to the U.S. to raise the $30,000 needed for the reconstruction.

Within a few days, half of the money was raised.

He returned to Nigeria multiple times. And in December, work on the church began with the help of local laborers who re-constructed the church using the materials Devlin raised money to purchase, which stimulated the local economy, he said.

Our hope is, as we raise money rebuilding churches destroyed by terrorists that were going to use local materials and local labor. And then, it becomes an economic engine, he explained. Were actually decreasing the unemployment rate in these areas as well.  Its multi-faceted.

The community began to brim with hope as the church building took shape, Devlin said.

As the construction continued, the congregation continued to multiply, and the excitement spilled over into the community, he continued.

When Easter Sunday arrived, Devlin said the church service was packed.

Around 500 people gathered in the church  a building with a blue metal roof and yellow walls  on Easter Sunday for a service that lasted over five hours. According to Devlin, there was singing, dancing, worship, preaching, teaching and child dedications.

People were just so encouraged and so filled with hope that their church was completed. , he said. I told the congregation, Im not even a Methodist, but I saw your tears.  And Revelation 21 says that Gods going to wipe away every tear when we meet with Him.' I said, 'I wanted to follow Gods lead, so I came to Agatu to wipe away the tears that you have shed over the people who were killed, over the homes that were destroyed, and over your church that was destroyed.

He said the community invited Benue State Gov. Samuel Ortom, a Methodist bishop, and the local city council to the inaugural service. Ortom, who recently survived an assassination attempt, did not attend. But he sent a representative who promised financial investment in the community.

Joseph Odaudu, Ortoms adviser on special duties, visited the service and commended the congregation for embracing peace despite the destruction, The Independent reported.

There was just a sense of goodwill, of hope, in the midst of all the persecution of our sisters and brothers in Nigeria. There was an injection of hope, of love, Devlin said. It was really a message of hope that we wanted to give to our persecuted Nigerian friends.

He said raising funds to rebuild the church showed Nigeria the persecuted church is not forgotten.

Its something practical that we were not only able to provide to the glory of God  and bring hope and healing in the midst of a very murderous regime, but it also gives hope to people here in the U.S. [who are willing to give].

Last year, The Christian Post interviewed Agatu residents and humanitarian workers about the help the community has received in the wake of Fulani attacks that overran 10 of Agatu's 17 villages in 2016. Conflict with Fulani left about 60% of the region's residents displaced, according to the Agatu Resource & Innovation Centre.

Throughout the country's Middle Belt states, communal conflict has led to frequent attacks against predominantly Christian farming communities commonly carried out by radicalized Fulani herdsmen. Human rights groups estimate that hundreds of people were killed by Fulani attacks in 2020.

Nigeria is Africas most populous country and ranks No. 9 on Open Doors World Watch List for Christian persecution worldwide due to an extreme level of Islamic oppression.

Open Doors reports that "[m]ore Christians are murdered for their faith in Nigeria than in any other country."

The Global Terrorism Index ranked Nigeria as the third-most affected country by terrorism and reports over 22,000 killed by acts of terror from 2001 to 2019.

The U.S. Commission on International and Religious Freedoms 2021 report warned Nigeria will move relentlessly toward a Christian genocide if action is not taken. Islamic extremism in northeast Nigeria has also led to thousands of deaths and millions displaced in recent years.

Nigeria was the first democratic nation to be added to the U.S. State Department's list of "countries of particular concern" under the International Religious Freedom Act for engaging in tolerated systematic, ongoing and egregious violations of religious freedom.

As for his future of rebuilding destroyed churches, Devlin said there are still several churches in Nigeria in need of rebuilding.

Devlin said he had been approached by several churches destroyed by jihadists in Egypt and Sudan. He previously raised $100,000 to rebuild Zion Evangelical Church in Sri Lanka that was destroyed by jihadis during the Easter Sunday bombings of 2019.
Pro-abortion Catholic politicians shouldn't receive communion: Nancy Pelosi's archbishop declares

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A Roman Catholic archbishop whose territory includes the church that Democratic House Speaker Nancy Pelosi belongs to has recommended that pro-abortion Catholics should not receive communion.

Archbishop Salvatore J. Cordileone of California released a pastoral letter on Saturday that addressed whether Catholics who actively campaign on behalf of pro-choice policies should be allowed to receive communion.

The Catholic Church official directed his comments at figures like Pelosi, who, while being a practicing Catholic, is known for her strong support of legal abortion.

Your Catholic ideals inspire you in your work to help those who experience discrimination, violence, and injustice, and you deserve the gratitude of your fellow Catholics and our nation for this service. But we cannot empower the weak by crushing the weakest, wrote Cordileone.

If you find that you are unwilling or unable to abandon your advocacy for abortion, you should not come forward to receive Holy Communion. To publicly affirm the Catholic faith while at the same time publicly rejecting one of its most fundamental teachings is simply dishonest.

In the conclusion of the letter, Cordileone emotionally implored pro-abortion Catholics to reconsider their stance and work to end abortion, stating the killing must stop.

God has entrusted you with a prestigious position in society. You have the power to affect societal practices and attitudes. Always remember that you will one day have to render an account to God for your stewardship of this trust, he added.

And please stop pretending that advocating for or practicing a grave moral evil  one that snuffs out an innocent human life, one that denies a fundamental human right  is somehow compatible with the Catholic faith. It is not.

The archbishop went on to ask pro-abortion Catholics to return home to the fullness of your Catholic faith, saying they await you with open arms to welcome you back.

The question over whether pro-abortion Catholic politicians can be denied communion has been given increased focus in the wake of the election of President Joe Biden.

In October 2019, then-presidential hopeful Biden was denied communion at a mass at Saint Anthony Catholic Church in South Carolina due to his policy stances on abortion.

A Pew Research Center poll released in late March found that two-thirds of American Catholics believe that Biden should not be denied communion, despite his views on abortion.

Pew found a partisan divide over the issue, as 55% of Catholic Republicans thought he should be denied the sacrament, while 87% of Catholic Democrats thought he should not be denied it.

For his part, Bishop Robert McElroy of San Diego stated in February that he felt denying Catholic officials communion over their support for abortion was very destructive.

I do not see how depriving the President of other political leaders of Eucharist based on their public policy stance can be interpreted in our society as anything other than the weaponization of Eucharist, said McElroy, as reported by CRUX Now.

In June, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops will consider a draft document that, if approved, would recommend that pro-abortion Catholic politicians not receive communion.

Even if approved, however, the draft document would only recommend the denial of communion, with local dioceses still being allowed to make their own rules on the issue.
TD Jakes warns the Church has become 'deaf,' consumed with 'tribalism'

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In an increasingly divided society, Bishop T.D. Jakes has warned that tribalism permeates even the Church of Jesus Christ and is causing it to become deaf to the plight of those beyond its four walls.

I think the first thing we need to do is go on an expedition and go beyond the borders of the safety of our sanctuaries and finally fulfill the Matthew 28:19 commission to go into all the world, Jakes, leader of The Potter's House megachurch based in Dallas, Texas, said on The Edifi Podcast With Billy Hallowell.

But before we teach them, let's listen. Because I think there's a huge disconnect between the sanctuary and the solar orbit that it encircles. And that difference makes a difference in how we approach the Great Commission.

Jakes, who recently released his latest bookDont Drop the Mic: The Power of Words Can Change the World, lamented the tribalism he said is prevalent both in Christian and non-Christian circles.

Tribalism is defined as a strong loyalty to ones own tribe, party, or group.

He said people are supported even by cookies on the phone and everything else to stay in your tribe.

Tribalism always leads to war. Always, the 63-year-old stressed. You have to break down the wall and not build walls between us, but draw circles around us and begin to talk.  Im talking about actually becoming friends with people. It's hard to hate somebody you understand.

Listen: subscribe to The Edifi Podcast With Billy Hallowell.

Drawing from the example of Jesus and other biblical heroes, Jakes stressed the importance of empathy and listening. He warned that if you speak fluently and lose your hearing, your speech will deteriorate down to the level of your hearing.

I think that the Church has become deaf, he said. And in so doing, we're so busy teaching and talking. And we have our lines down pat and our talking points down, [but] we're not listening.

And we have to be listening. We're suffering as a country because we have a Congress, and leadership, and a society that doesn't seem to listen, he added. They're so busy fighting between the right and the left, that they can't hear the people they represent. It seems not to matter what the people think anymore.

The New York Times bestselling author emphasized that change doesnt come from people on TV, but from average people learning to understand one another.

This is our country, not elected officials, not famous people, not rich people. This is our country, he declared. And if we want change, change has to start in our lives rather than becoming angry at what they are doing. It's up to us to make it a better world.  The mic is in your hands. Let your voice be heard. But listen to other people as well.

Jakes is not the only evangelical leader to warn of the dangers of tribalism within the Body of Christ.

In January, Southern Baptist ethicist Russell Moore warned that the crimes being perpetrated against religious minorities in China and elsewhere rely on tribalism and invisibility where the rest of the world doesn't pay attention.

The way of Jesus Christ says that we pay attention to our neighbor on the side of the road who is persecuted, who is being beaten, he said. So let's pray for  persecuted peoples. Let's pray not just individually, but together, and pray for them by name.

Let's be the people who stand up for whoever is being made invisible, whoever is being intimidated and bullied in our own neighborhoods and in our own communities because we're the people of Jesus Christ.
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In a certain sense, Gods presence fills the universe. Yet there are times in history when God manifests His presence in a particular place or in a particular way that is unique and distinct and powerful and transformative. We call those times revival.

During such times in the past, children would say, Did you hear that Jesus came to my village? Preachers would say, God stepped down from heaven. Something had changed, and everyone knew it.

As I explained in the definition I have used for revival for many years, Revival is a season of unusual divine visitation resulting in deep repentance, supernatural renewal, and sweeping reformation in the Church, along with the radical conversion of sinners in the world, often producing moral, social, and even economic change in the local or national communities.

Note in particular those words a season of unusual divine visitation. That is the very essence of revival.

There are passages in the Bible that describe Gods presence as being everywhere (see Psalm 139:7-12; Jeremiah 23:23-24). Yet there are distinct times when He draws near in unique ways.

This was Jacobs experience in Genesis 28 when he spent the night in a place called Luz. After he saw angels ascending and descending from heaven in a dream, he woke up and said, Surely the LORD is in this place, and I was not aware of it. He was afraid and said, How awesome is this place! This is none other than the house of God; this is the gate of heaven. (Genesis 28:16-17)

As a result, he named the place Bethel, which means house of God.

At other times in Israels history, the presence of God was manifest in a literal, visible, even tangible way to the point that everyone could see it or feel it. In fact, on a few unique occasions (specifically, the dedication of the Tabernacle and the dedication of the Temple), the Lords manifest presence (called His glory) so filled the place that neither Moses nor the priests could enter (Exodus 40:34-35; 2 Chronicles 5:11-14; 7:1-3). There was no room for both God and man.

In the same way, although the Lord is always with us when we gather to worship Him (see Matthew 18:20), there are distinct times when His power and presence flood the gathering place, resulting in dramatic conversions and supernatural transformations.

Paul explained that . . . if an unbeliever or an inquirer comes in while everyone is prophesying, they are convicted of sin and are brought under judgment by all, as the secrets of their hearts are laid bare. So they will fall down and worship God, exclaiming, God is really among you! (1 Corinthians 14:24-25)

So, just as Jacob concluded that the place where he spent the night was the gate of heaven, the very house of God, sinners and seekers will conclude that God is really among us when the Spirit moves freely in our corporate gatherings.

And what happens when an unusually intense spiritual presence is manifest in service after service? What happens when that presence becomes even more powerful and is not limited to a single meeting place but rather to a region? We call that revival.

In fact, seasons of revival are so distinct and real that we can actually date them and identify them geographically, as in the First Great Awakening in the American colonies in the 1730s and 1740s or the Welsh Revival from 1904-1905.

I had the distinct honor of serving as a leader in the Brownsville Revival, which lasted from 1995-2000 (I was involved from 1996-2000). Once again, it was that distinct, intense, holy, convicting, transforming presence of God that marked the revival.

To this day, more than 20 years later, I meet people who tell me, I visited Brownsville [referring to a small neighborhood in Pensacola, Florida, where the revival was based] and my life was transformed.

Ive even heard this from people who visited the revival when they were children or teenagers, let alone adults. The transforming presence they encountered stayed with them when they left the meetings, changing them for the rest of their lives.

Thats what distinguishes true revival from emotionalism: the former produces lasting results; the latter produces letdown and disappointment once the emotional high is over.

Descriptions like this about Brownsville were common: As I walked into the building, even as a hardened sinner, I began to sense a difference in the atmosphere. A strange pull began to affect me. I felt increasingly uncomfortable about my sin, but there was an unspoken yearning for truth, reality, and salvation rising in my soul.

These were the words of a 17-year-old, drug-abusing atheist, written 15 years later and recounting his dramatic conversion in one service at Brownsville.

And what happened after he returned home following that single, transformative encounter? He wrote, I was immediately freed from the grip of drugs, alcohol, suicidal tendencies, and rebelliousness toward my teachers and parents. He also led 27 of his high school friends to Jesus.

I am not exaggerating when I tell you that virtually every week for several years, we heard similar testimonies of dramatic encounter and transformation, some even more dramatic than this, all of them profound. And we heard these testimonies by the thousands.

Now, ask yourself what would happen if that same holy presence fell in hundreds of locations in America, all at the same time, joined together with powerful, uncompromised preaching of the Word? What would happen if revival fires broke out in city after city, in street meetings and in homes and in church services?

It would be another great awakening, another season of unusual divine visitation, a national revival.

That remains the only hope of America. As I have written previously (and, as titled in a new book scheduled for release in October), it is literally revival or we die.

Oh, that God would step down from heaven once again and shake our nation, beginning with the people of the Lord. May the fire of revival fall, starting with you and me, and from there, may it spread from coast to coast until tens of millions have been transformed. It is time!
Companies censor shareholder questions about anti-religious liberty law at annual meetings

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We are now in proxy season, the period starting in April in which many publicly traded companies have their annual shareholder meetings. As chief economist for a financial firm that has substantial investments in a broad range of companies, I have been attending these meetings with the particular purpose of asking management about the Equality Act  a proposed law that has been endorsed by a shocking number of publicly-traded companies. The Equality Act is radical in many ways, but most of all in that it directly and explicitly overrules the Religious Freedom Restoration Act. As a Christian, and a believer that companies should focus on business and not politics, I was concerned that this extremist piece of legislation had the support of so many corporations. So, I arrived at these meetings well before they started and submitted my questions ahead of time. In every case so far, the question I asked has not been answered on the call. That was disappointing enough in its own right, but in several cases, the companies in question did something particularly egregious: They implied or outright said that there were no more questions to answer, even though my question was never even acknowledged.

First was Exelon, a major energy provider, which implied that all the questions had been answered when (at least) mine was not. Then there was health insurance provider Cigna, which went further than Exelon by stating explicitly at the end of the meeting that there were no further questions. (Those who have been paying attention might remember this Washington Examiner report that revealed Cignas employee diversity training included descriptions of religious privilege, implying that their faith made Christians the beneficiaries of unfair societal advantages.) The same thing happened with Corning Inc., a producer of specialty ceramics and glassware used in advanced optics. At the start of the question portion of the meeting, which is there  in theory  so that shareholders can get answers about how the company they own is being operated, stated there were only two shareholder questions before saying, Thats it. That concludes our Q&A portion.

But that was not it, just as it was not it for any of the other meetings I attended. To be clear, I am not an activist investor  someone who buys a small number of shares in a company just to be able to talk at shareholder meetings. I am involved in the creation of funds based on their qualities as investments. In many cases, our investment in these companies has stood for months or even years and can be measured in millions of dollars. My concern was about what exactly these companies were up to by publicly tying themselves to legislation that could be described, at best, as deeply controversial. It would be more accurate to say the Equality Act strips away legal protections for all traditionally religious Americans.

What exactly caused this apparent breakdown in communication between the investor and the steward of said investors money is not clear, but it is conspicuous that they would not answer questions that demanded a defense over a controversial matter, while being more than eager to answer the questions that gave them ample opportunity to broadcast their commitment to secular progressive social ideology.

Flat-out ignoring shareholder questions is bad. Falsely stating that all the questions were answered is a lot worse. I reached out to the Investor Relations departments, by phone and email, of all the companies whose meetings I have attended  namely Exelon, Cigna, Ameriprise, and Corning. Only Exelon, who I spoke with off the record after the annual meeting, has responded as of this writing, so keep in mind that this story is still developing. In addition, the general policy for these companies is that questions that are not answered in the annual meeting will be addressed in writing on their website sometime in the future, generally within a matter of weeks. But the stakes are obviously much higher on the live call than they are several weeks later in a written statement on the website.

I also reached out to Scott Shepard, a fellow at the National Center for Public Policy Research and Deputy Director of its Free Enterprise Project, who has been active in corporate engagement for years. He told us by email that companies have too often misused the virtual shareholder meetings of the lockdowns to ignore shareholder questions that they don't care to answer honestly. They often then compound the problem by pretending that the problems were never submitted. These are the same companies that have signed onto the Business Roundtable's 'Statement of the Purpose of the Corporation,' a rhetorical embrace of 'stakeholder capitalism.' But their treatment of questions they don't like beautifully illustrates how they intend to use this shift: they'll ignore all stakeholder interests other than the ones that fit their own personal policy preferences, and use the facade of stakeholder capitalism to enact their personal preferences at the expense of proper company and shareholder interests.

A Reuters report in August 2020 highlighted the growing problem of publicly-traded companies exploiting the fact that the COVID-19 pandemic has forced annual meetings entirely online to ignore shareholders questions  over half of them, according to one study. Justin Danhof, General Counsel for the National Center for Public Policy Research and Director of the Centers Free Enterprise Project, told Reuters that companies used the crisis to set up question-and-answer sessions that are a joke.

Not having to face shareholders in person when they ask their question is certainly beneficial for a corporation that wants to avoid accountability, especially if those questions are about endorsing a piece of legislation that would inspire outrage if people knew what it contained.

There is much to say about the Equality Act, and why so many corporations consider it in their interest to publicly endorse it. You can read more about the legislation here, here, here, here, and here. In brief, if this law were ever passed, it would mean the remaking of our legal landscape in the image of left-wing secular dogma. Of all its radical clauses, the one that should prompt the most concern for the future of religious public life in the United States is that it directly, specifically, by name, guts the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, or RFRA, which is bipartisan legislation that was passed nearly-unanimously in 1993. The text of the Act is explicit in exempting itself from the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, one of the most important laws protecting religious liberty, as if those who wrote the law anticipated that it would violate religious liberty, and want to pre-emptively rule out any challenges to any aspect of the law on that basis. The Human Rights Council (an organization as deceptively named as the law they are lobbying for) boasts that the Equality Act has the public endorsement of more than 160 businesses.

All the companies I have put questions to at annual meetings so far are supporters of the Act, by the HRCs own count. I expected that they would give unsatisfactory answers to my questions, but I did not expect large, well-known companies such as Exelon and Cigna to not answer those questions at all in their annual meetings. Though maybe we shouldnt be surprised if the kind of company that privately teaches its employees about Christians' unearned privilege doesnt want shareholders questioning the Equality Act.
Illinois church with drag queen leader has reached 'doctrinal annihilation': Al Mohler

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Southern Baptist leader Albert Mohler has denounced an Illinois churchs consideration of having a drag queen as their pastor, calling it doctrinal annihilation.

Hope United Methodist Church in Bloomington garnered headlines for having an openly gay man who is also a drag queen serve as a leader at their congregation, with a local UMC body advancing him as a candidate for ministry.

In a Wednesday episode of his podcast The Briefing, Mohler blasted the church's advancement of Isaac Simmons as an intentional refutation and revolt against the very order of creation that God has given us, and a direct violation of the clear teachings of Scripture concerning the fact that those whom God has made as men should identify as men.

This is open revolt, and of course, you're going to see a division between those who are appalled by it, deeply troubled by it, deeply concerned by it and opposed to it on the one hand, and those who celebrate it and say that it's arrived far too late on the other hand, said Mohler.

By the time any kind of church or church body reaches this point, it has already basically embraced doctrinal annihilation. There is virtually nothing left of the historic Christian tradition.

Mohler went on to explain that you're looking not only at two different positions when it came to whether Simmons should be a church leader, but rather you're looking at two different religions.

Those two different religions cannot possibly continue to exist in one church or in one denomination, he added. Once conservatives are out of the picture in the United Methodist Church, this is only the start of where things will go in the future.

A student at Illinois Wesleyan, Simmons has been known to be involved in online worship as his drag persona, Ms. Penny Cost, including on April 11, known as Drag Sunday.

In an interview with CBS News affiliate WMBD in Illinois, Simmons explained that he wasn't expecting to be approved for clergy candidacy, given the UMCs official stance against homosexuality, noncelibate homosexual ordination and same-sex marriage.

Theyre saying this person is being called to ministry and has our approval to receive the United Methodist support financially and otherwise, Simmons said. My faith and my understanding of God calls me to be a part of that; to be a part of change-making and to be a part of creating spaces where everyone, regardless of their identities [or] orientations, can be and exist without even an inkling of Am I welcomed here?'

News of Simmons and his clergy candidacy comes as many conservatives in the UMC plan to exit the denomination due to many officials' failure to enforce its official teachings on LGBT issues.

Earlier this year, a group of theologically conservative United Methodists announced the creation of the Global Methodist Church, set to launch once the UMC approves an amicable separation proposal at General Conference.

Keith Boyette, spokesman for the Global Methodist Church, told The Christian Post in an earlier interview that UMC leadership has displayed an unwillingness to uphold its teachings on LGBT issues.

In the United States, particularly, some bishops, clergy, and churches are operating in open defiance to the teachings of the United Methodist Church, Boyette said. The Church has become ungovernable as a consequence, such unchecked defiance has destroyed the integrity of the Church.

In light of this, theologically conservative leaders have decided to launch a new denomination that will be true to its doctrine and teachings and end this endless conflict within the United Methodist Church.
Saddleback's Kay Warren: Church is 'vital' to combating mental health crisis

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As the pandemic has resulted in increased anxiety and depressive disorder among Americans, Saddleback Church co-founder Kay Warren says the Church can play a unique role in caring for those with mental illness and their families no matter how messy situations might be.

During a message delivered Thursday at the 2021 Evangelical Press Association Christian Media Convention, Warren, who co-founded the California-based megachurch with her husband, Rick, reflected on the death of her son, Matthew. He took his own life in 2013 after a life-long battle with mental illness.

I'll tell you  I will miss my son every day for the rest of my life, until that glorious resurrection day when I see Jesus and see Matthew again, she said.

After Matthews death, Warren founded Saddlebacks Hope for Mental Health Initiative to support individuals and family members of loved ones with mental illness and suicidal ideation.

She shared statistics revealing that one in five adults in the United States and one in five children will be affected by mental illness in the coming year. Suicide has become the second leading cause of death among people 10 to 34 years of age.

Where do people go who are living with mental health challenges? Where do they go to find compassionate care and understanding? Where can they find hope for their dark days? Warren asked. I really believe that the Church of Jesus Christ needs to be that safe, welcoming, and compassionate place for all who suffer.

There's a desperate need for the Church to engage with individuals with mental health challenges and their families, she added. The Church is positioned to take strong leadership and to provide the help that others can't.

The Kaiser Family Foundation reported in February that about four in 10 adults in the U.S. have during the pandemic reported symptoms of anxiety or depressive disorder, an increase from one in 10 who reported these symptoms in 2019.

The report also found that young adults have experienced various pandemic-related consequences, such as the closure of schools and loss of income that may contribute to poor mental health.

The foundation notes that during the pandemic, 56% of 18 to 24-year-olds reported symptoms of anxiety or depressive disorder and are more likely than all adults to report substance use and suicidal thoughts.

Stressing that the Church can fill in the gaps that government programs and secular organizations leave behind, Warren cited statistics revealing that 25% of people who are seeking help in a mental health crisis will go to their priest, rabbi or pastor before they'll go to a mental health professional or physician.

I seriously beg you, don't walk by the Church of God on your way to engaging the world on critical issues like mental illness, Warren said. It's going to be messy ... [but] the Church is the only vehicle that God has chosen to spread his message of compassion and mercy, and at the center of it all is Christ and His body, the Church.

You can't say you love Jesus and hate His Church or have no use for it or ignore it, she continued. It is His body, and in His church, in His body, there is a place for everyone.

It doesnt require a large church congregation or excessive wealth to have an attitude of mercy and compassion and tenderness, Warren said. Instead, it requires a decision to care, to let your heart be touched by the suffering of fellow human beings, to allow their pain in some way to touch yours.

A 2014 survey from Lifeway Research found that nearly half of pastors (49%) rarely or never speak to their church in sermons or large group settings about acute mental illness.

Additionally, about one in four individuals said they had either stopped attending church, had not found a church to attend or had changed churches based on the churchs response to mental health issues.

Mental illness dehumanizes people, Warren stressed. But the Church has the opportunity to open its arms and befriend and listen to those struggling.

What if we held each other's hearts in our hands for a few moments and validated each other's significance ... and provided each other with the comfort that God has given to us, she said.

The most powerful thing the faith community can do is remove the debilitating stigma and rejection that those living with a mental illness encounter, Warren said, adding: The faith community is what I call a legitimizing force in society. If the Church says you're OK, you're OK."

The primary reason many people struggling with mental illness dont seek help, she explained, is due to the stigma attached to it. But the Bible is clear that having an illness doesnt mean that youre not valuable or that theres something spiritually wrong, she assured.

Nobody wants to be thought of as having a mental health challenge, Warren pointed out. Mental illness is part of our body; it's part of the physical part of our body. And when you can let people know that it's not a sin to be sick and your church is a  safe place to bring your brokenness, then we're beginning to remove the stigma.

Warren encouraged churches to hold mental health seminars, compile a list of some mental health professionals for referral purposes and offer hope to those struggling with mental illness.

The LifeWay study found that 68% of pastors surveyed said their churches maintain a list of local mental health resources for church members. Still, only about 28% said that families are aware those resources exist.

Hope is the most valuable commodity that we have in the Church to offer people in profound pain, she said.

The Church is to offer hope at every stage and phase of life. That's what makes us different from every other organization trying to offer help in this space. We're here to stay. And we're here to continue to hold out hope.
Idaho gov. signs bill to prohibit indoctrinating students with critical race theory

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In a preemptive strike to prevent the indoctrination of students in public schools with the controversial critical race theory, Idaho Gov. Brad Little signed legislation into law late Wednesday that prohibits forcing students to accept it.

The claim that there is widespread, systemic indoctrination occurring in Idaho classrooms is a serious allegation, Little wrote in the bills transmittal letter addressed to Republican House Speaker Scott Bedke The Associated Press reported. Most worryingly, it undermines popular support for public education in Idaho.

Critical race theory is a framework through which some scholars seek to understand how victims of systemic racism are affected by cultural perceptions of race and how they are able to represent themselves to counter prejudice. Scholarship on the theory traces racism in the U.S. through the legacy of slavery, the civil rights movement and recent events.

Kimberle Crenshaw, a founding critical race theorist and a law professor at UCLA and Columbia universities, explained the idea to CNN last year.

"It's an approach to grappling with a history of white supremacy that rejects the belief that what's in the past is in the past and that the laws and systems that grow from that past are detached from it," she said.

While the recently signed legislation, HB 377, does not ban the teaching of critical race theory, it prohibits all public schools, including institutions of higher education and school districts, from teaching that "any sex, race, ethnicity, religion, color, or national origin is inherently superior or inferior." It also prohibits teaching that "individuals, by virtue of sex, race, ethnicity, religion, color, or national origin, are inherently responsible for actions committed in the past by other members of the same sex, race, ethnicity, religion, color, or national origin."

These ideas, Idaho lawmakers noted, are often found in critical race theory, and they exacerbate and inflame divisions on the basis of sex, race, ethnicity, religion, color, national origin, or other criteria in ways contrary to the unity of the nation and the well-being of the state of Idaho and its citizens.

Opponents of critical race theory, like Christopher F. Rufo, a director at the Discovery Institute, praised the move Wednesday as a historic win.

Idaho becomes the first state in the nation to ban critical race theory indoctrination in public schools. Governor Brad Little signed the bill into law, which will prohibit schools from promoting race essentialism, collective guilt, and neo-segregation. A historic win! he wrote in a statement on Twitter.

Layne McInelly, president of the Idaho Education Association, said in a statement to CNN that the bill is seeking to address a problem that doesnt exist.

"The passage of HB 377 and the accompanying insinuations about Idaho teachers are very disappointing," she said. "This is a 'monster under the bed' problem brought about by a false and misleading narrative that some legislators have willfully conflated. They aim to diminish the public's trust in our teachers and schools, just to come back next year and push to privatize education."
Tim Scott responds to Biden: 'America is not a racist country'

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In his response to President Joe Bidens address to a joint session of the 117th United States Congress, Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., pushed back on the presidents contention that systemic racism plagues the country, asserting that America is not a racist country.

Scott, who has served in the U.S. Senate since 2013, is the only African American Republican serving in the chamber. He began his response to Bidens address by accusing Biden of failing to live up to his promises to unite a nation, to lower the temperature, [and] to govern for all Americans, no matter how we voted. Our nation is starving for more than empty platitudes," Scott said. "We need policies and progress that brings us closer together, but three months in, the actions of the president and his party are pulling us further and further apart. Stressing the need for common ground, Scott proclaimed, Nowhere do we need common ground more desperately than in our discussions of race. While acknowledging that he had experienced the pain of discrimination and that our healing is not finished on the issue of race, he praised the U.S. for making tremendous progress and criticized the people making money and gaining power by pretending we havent made any progress at all by doubling down on the divisions weve worked so hard to heal.

America is not a racist country, he asserted, rebuking the allegation shared by Biden in his address to Congress that systemic racism remains a major problem in American society. Its backwards to fight discrimination with different types of discrimination, he said, referring to the embrace of critical race theory in many corners of American culture, specifically in education and the workforce. Its wrong to try to use our painful past to dishonestly shut down debates in the present.

The senator discussed his personal background, lamenting that the novel coronavirus pandemic has attacked every rung of the ladder that helped me up. He specifically expressed concern about the fact that so many small businesses have gone under and for months, too many churches were shut down.

Im saddened that millions of kids have lost a year of learning when they could not afford to lose a single day, he added. Locking vulnerable kids out of the classroom is locking adults out of their future. Our public schools should have reopened months ago. Other countries did. Private and religious schools did. Science has shown for months that schools are safe, but too often, powerful grown-ups set science aside and kids like me were left behind.

Scott also criticized Bidens infrastructure plan, noting that less than 6 percent of the presidents plan goes to roads and bridges. He characterized the proposal as a liberal wish-list of big government waste plus the biggest job-killing tax hikes in a generation.

Experts say when all is said and done, it would lower wages of the average American worker and shrink our economy, he warned. Scott held up the American Families Plan, which the president unveiled in his address, as an example of even more taxing and even more spending to put Washington even more in the middle of your life from the cradle to college.

The beauty of the American dream is that families get to define it for themselves. We should be expanding opportunities and options for all families, not throwing money at certain issues because Democrats think they know best.

Infrastructure spending that shrinks our economy is not common sense, he declared. Weakening our southern borders and creating a crisis is not compassionate.

Building on his notion that Biden and the Democrats have moved too far to the left, he alleged that the president has been abandoning principles hes held for decades to appease the progressive wing of his party.

Referring to his reversal on his support for the longstanding Hyde Amendment that prevents taxpayer dollars from funding abortions, he decried Bidens belief that your tax dollars should fund abortions as well as his decision to form a commission laying the groundwork to pack the Supreme Court.

Scott also addressed the recently passed election bill in Georgia, which he argued was deliberately mischaracterized: Republicans support making it easier to vote and harder to cheat and so do the voters.

Noting widespread support for voter IDs and early voting, he expressed concern that this conversation has collapsed. Scott explained that the law expands early voting, preserves no-excuse mail-in voting and despite what the president claimed, did not reduce Election Day hours. If you actually read this law, its mainstream. It will be easier to vote early in Georgia than in Democrat-run New York, but the left doesnt want you to know that. They want people virtue-signaling by yelling about a law they havent even read.

The president absurdly claims that this is worse than Jim Crow, he continued. This misplaced outrage is supposed to justify Democrats new sweeping bill that would take over elections for all 50 states, it would send public funds to political campaigns you disagree with and make the bipartisan Federal Elections Commission partisan. This is not about civil rights or our racial past, its about rigging elections in the future.

Additionally, Scott rejected the idea pushed by Democrats recently that the filibuster, which has been used to stall both progressive and conservative legislative packages over the years, is a racist relic just because the shoe is now on the other foot. He maintained that race is not a political weapon to settle every issue the way one side wants. Its far too important.

As his remarks concluded, Scott reiterated, A president who promised to bring us together should not be pushing agendas that tear us apart. The American family deserves better and we know what better looks like. Scott praised the legislative accomplishments of the Trump administration and congressional Republicans, specifically highlighting Operation Warp Speed and the implementation of criminal justice reform.

Our best future will not come from Washington schemes or socialist dreams, he predicted. It will come from you, the American people.

In spite of his concerns about the Biden administrations agenda, Scott shared his belief that our finest hour has yet to come. ... Original sin is never the end of the story, not in our souls and not for our nation. The real story is always redemption.

Scott ended his remarks by quoting from the Christian worship song The Blessing, which was inspired by several passages in the Bible: May the Lord bless you and keep you  make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you. May His presence go before you and behind you and beside you, in your weeping and your rejoicing. He is for you. May His favor be upon our nation for a thousand generations and your family and your children and their children.

Scott is widely seen as a possible contender for the Republican presidential nomination in 2024. A straw poll taken at the Conservative Political Action Conference, an annual gathering of grassroots conservative activists, found Scott polling at 1% in a hypothetical Republican primary field that included former President Donald Trump. In a hypothetical scenario where Trump was not seeking the Republican nomination, Scott also polled at 1%.
US Catholic Bishops expected to advise denying communion to pro-abortion politicians

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United States bishops are considering formalizing their opposition to pro-abortion Catholic politicians receiving communion as they continue to speak out against President Joe Biden, a Catholic, over his support for abortion.

The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, scheduled to hold a national meeting in June, is considering approving a draft document that would advise Catholic politicians who support abortion not to receive communion. The consideration of the document comes as Biden continues to advocate for liberal abortion policies that directly conflict with the teachings of his faith, specifically, that all human life is sacred from natural conception until natural death.

According to Archbishop Joseph Naumann of the Archdiocese of Kansas City, who chairs the USCCBs Committee on Pro-Life Activities, advocacy for abortion constitutes a grave moral evil. Naumann told The Associated Press that Because President Biden is Catholic, it presents a unique problem for us.

It can create confusion  How can he say hes a devout Catholic and hes doing these things that are contrary to the churchs teaching? Naumann asked. The Catholic Churchs Code of Canon Law teaches that those who are obstinately persevering in manifest grave sin are not to be admitted to holy communion.

According to the USCCB website, The body of bishops meets typically twice a year for a General Assembly to transact its business and address matters of concern within its civil and canonical mandates. This years USCCB Spring General Assembly will take place from June 16-18.

Naumann told the AP that at the General Assembly, the bishops will vote on whether to continue working on the document, so it can be presented to the public at a later date. The rules of the General Assembly require proposals to receive a two-thirds majority vote of those bishops present and voting.

Even if the USCCB approves the document, it would still leave decisions on withholding Communion up to individual bishops. Individual churches and dioceses have taken different approaches regarding communion for Catholic politicians who support abortion.

A priest in South Carolina refused to give Biden communion when the then-presidential candidate visited his church on the campaign trail, citing his support for abortion as the reason for withholding communion. However, Cardinal Wilton Gregory of the Archdiocese of Washington said that he would allow the then-president-elect to receive communion despite his advocacy on behalf of a practice that the Church steadfastly opposes.

While Catholic bishops as a whole have demonstrated opposition to allowing Biden to receive communion, a recent poll conducted by the Pew Research Center revealed two-thirds of American Catholics believe that Biden should be able to receive communion despite his position on abortion.

Biden, the second Roman Catholic to serve as president, has frequently found himself at odds with the Church and the broader Catholic community due to his positions on social issues extending beyond abortion. This divide has manifested itself in exchanges between EWTNs White House Correspondent Owen Jensen and White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki at the White House press briefings.

Most recently, on Tuesday, Jensen asked Psaki to react to criticism of Biden from the USCCB over his administrations decision to lift the ban on researchers using fetal tissue from elective abortions.

Psaki rejected the USCCBs contention that it's deeply offensive to millions of Americans for our taxpayer dollars to be used for research that collaborates with an industry built on the taking of innocent lives.

I think the White House  respectfully disagrees and we believe that its important to invest in science and  look for opportunities to cure diseases, she responded. In addition to his support for abortion, Biden has come under fire for his support for the Equality Act, a wide-reaching legislative initiative that critics warn has negative implications for religious liberty. Jensen has repeatedly pressed Psaki about Bidens position on such concerns.

At a White House press briefing earlier this month, Jensen asked Psaki if Biden had a message for Catholic doctors, [and] Catholic institutions who are fearful that if the Equality Act passes, it has the potential to trample on their conscience rights. In her response, Psaki maintained that the president has a difference of opinion with those who have those concerns while reiterating that he has been a supporter of the Equality Act, and he also is a practicing Catholic and attends church nearly every week.

In March, Jensen told Psaki that pro-life groups were very concerned about the phrase pregnancy discrimination in the Equality Act  that it would force doctors to perform abortions even if it violates their conscience. Also mentioning concerns that the legislation would force doctors to perform gender transition surgeries and sterilizations, again, even if it violates their conscience, Jensen inquired as to whether the president wanted to address the aforementioned concerns.

Psaki did not directly answer the question, instead describing Biden as a long supporter of Roe v. Wade and highlighting his consistent belief that [Roe] should be law. She also declined to respond when Jensen asked if the president wanted to weigh in on conscience concerns.
The Christian Post wins 4 EPA awards

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The Christian Post won four awards, including the Award of Excellence for newspaper online, in the Evangelical Press Associations annual contest.

This digital publication offers extensive original reporting on national and global topics of significance, the judges wrote The website is well organized, visually appealing, and easy to navigate.

The Award of Excellence for Newspaper-Online News was presented Friday at the EPA Convention, held virtually this year. CP also won fifth place in the "Critical Review" category for Brandon Showalters review, "Our girls are being irreversibly damaged by the transgender craze;" third place in the "Reporting" category for Sam Smiths article Nigeria's 'genocide': Who is helping the thousands of displaced Christians?; and fourth place in the Cartoon category for Are churches more contagious than casinos?

The EPA, which CP is a member of, describes itself as the worlds largest professional organization for the evangelical periodical publishing industry. Each year, it hosts two contests  the Awards of Excellence contest (for publications as a whole) and the Higher Goals contest (for individual pieces).

Next year's EPA Awards will be held in-person in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
Chinese authorities slap Catholic with hefty fine for providing chapel for 'illegal' mass

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Authorities with the Chinese Communist Party are now punishing those who provide worship venues for believers as religious persecution continues to escalate in the country.

According to Asia News, a Catholic in the town of Wangli in the Zhejiang province was fined last month for offering his private chapel to the bishop of Wenzhou diocese, Msgr. Peter Shao Zhumin.

Zhumin is only recognized by the Vatican, not by the Chinese Communist Party.

On March 16, Huang Ruixun, 56, offered his chapel to Shao and about 20 Catholics. Shortly after that, he was sentenced to a hefty fine of 200,000 yuan (the equivalent of about $30,000) under the charge of hosting the bishop for illegal religious activities, also providing him with lunch, a rest room, etc.

Huang was accused of violating the state-sanctioned churchs principle since Shao was ordained by a foreign institution, which goes against the principle of independence, autonomy and self-administration of the Church in China.

A 2018 China-Vatican Agreement, renewed last year, permits the Chinese government to propose new bishops to the Vatican through its state-approved Chinese Patriotic Catholic Association, with the pope having veto power on the decision.

At the time of the signing, the Vatican said it hoped the deal would promote unity among Chinas estimated 10 million to 12 million Catholics.

According to the press agency of the Roman Catholic Pontifical Institute for Foreign Missions, the complaint against Huang states that "facilitating illegal religious activities" is against regulations requiring that religious activities take place in places registered by the government.

The unofficial Catholic Church in China continues to suffer, and religious persecution has worsened in recent years.

Recently, the CCP shut down two Catholic Church-run childrens homes: St. Josephs Disabled Infant Home in Renqiu, Xianxian, in the Diocese of Cangzhou, and the Liming (Dawn) Home in the Diocese of Zhaoxian. Both of those homes are in the Hebei province.

The CCP also shuttered Catholic-run orphanages in Zhangjiakou and Zhengding, both in Hebei. Two years ago, an orphanage in Baoji, Shaanxi province, run by the Sisters of the Sacred Heart, was also shut down.

A local priest lamented earlier this month after children were transferred to state-run facilities that the government is not only ignoring the beautiful contribution and quality social services provided by the Catholic Church, but wants in fact to destroy them.

A report has claimed that children in state-run facilities are left "emaciated" and "low-spirited.

According to newly-released reports, religious persecution in China intensified in 2020, with thousands of Christians affected by church closures and other human rights abuses.

Under the direction of Chinese President Xi Jinping, CCP officials worked to more fully control religion, according to a report released last month by the persecution watchdog China Aid.

Christians in both official, state-run churches and house churches were ordered to fly the Chinese flag and sing patriotic songs in services.

Authorities also were accused of directing ministers and priests to sinicize sermons or alter them to conform to CCP ideology.

China Aids April report also states that CCP authorities invaded Christians' homes, raided family gatherings and interfered with parenting decisions. Authorities also sued Christians for homeschooling their children or sending them to church-run schools in numerous instances.

The United States-based persecution watchdog International Christian Concern notes that religious persecution in China could increase in the coming months thanks to a new policy.

The organization reports that the Administrative Measures for Religious Personnel going into effect on May 1 requires all clergy and religious leaders in China to love the motherland, support the leadership of the Communist Party of China, support the socialist system, abide by the Constitution, laws, regulations and rules, practice the core values of socialism, adhere to the principle of independence and autonomous management of religion, and adhere to Chinas religious policy, maintaining unity national unity, ethnic unity, religious harmony and social stability.

ICC warns that there will be minimum space left for the underground Church to survive without being cracked down or harassed.

Increased punishment will become a norm for Christians participating in these religious activities not vetted by the state," ICC stated in a April 27 report.
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Is wildfire season already here?

The season is now year-round in California, but there are signs it's starting to pick up.

Firefighters responded to a wildfire Sunday in Big Basin Redwoods State Park, and on Monday desiccating offshore winds are leading to heightened wildfire danger.

A red flag warning is in effect for the Central Valley and a portion of Solano County in the Bay Area through 5 p.m. Tuesday. North winds will range from 15 to 20 mph with isolated gusts up to 40 mph. Fires will start more easily and the potential for rapid spread of fire will be high, warned the National Weather Service.

Amid the offshore wind event, humidity levels are expected to plunge. What's more, temperatures in Northern California and the Bay Area will be up to 15 degrees above average Monday and Tuesday with inland highs in the 80s and lower 90s and coastal spots mostly in the 60s and 70s.

The Basin Fire sparked Sunday at about noon near the Hihn Hammond Truck Trail, in a remote area that burned during last year's CZU Lightning Complex fires.

CAL Fire Unit Ian Larkin said the fire started in what's called a "sleeper spot."

"It's an area where a root or some material continued to burn through this entire time," Larkin said. "It finally found a receptive fuel bed."

Fire crews stopped forward progress of the blaze Sunday afternoon and last night CAL Fire reported the fire was contained at 6.7 acres.

Several crews and engines responded to the fire and a CAL Fire helicopter made water drops.

Cecile Juliette, a spokesperson for CAL Fire, said seven wildfires in the Santa Cruz Mountains since January 1 have required assistance from a helicopter.

The dry conditions and the very poor fuel moisture recovery over the last six or eight months and the lack of rain weve had and also the continued drought have put us in a position where our fuel moistures are very dry and were experiencing conditions that we would normally experience later in the summer in June and July and its only the beginning of May," Juliette said.

The Santa Cruz Mountains straddle, Santa Cruz and San Mateo counties and Larkin said there have been 55 fires reported in this region since January 1. (Note: The mountains also cross into Santa Clara County and data for this region wasn't included in Larkin's count.) Last year at this same time, crews had responded to 18 fires.

"So it's a significant difference," he said.

In Solano County, Vacaville firefighters stopped a grass fire near Travis Air Force Base Sunday. The fire jumped Hay Road.

Last year, the state saw the worst wildfire season on record with more than 4.2 million acres burned and 31 deaths. California had its first-ever "gigafire" with more than 1 million acres burned in the August Lightning Complex.

Its unknown whether 2021 will be worse, but there are indications it could be. Cal Fire, the states wildland fire-fighting agency, has already responded to more than 1,354 wildfires with 2,219 acres burned since January 1. Last year, at this same time it had responded to 814 blazes with 1,056 acres torched.
A few meters from the Red Fort, one of the main historical monuments of New Delhi, the capital of India, is the Chandni Chowk market. The "Square of the Moonlight", as it is also known, was built in the 17th century by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan and designed by Princess Jahanara, the sovereign's favorite daughter. For more than 300 years, spices, nuts, silver jewelry, saris and traditional Indian sweets have been on the market. And every spring, it is one of the places where Hindus can find the multicolored powders they use for Holi, the festival of colors . During the celebrations (this year it was at the end of March), people throw handfuls of powders and jets of water of many colors such as turmeric yellow, saffron orange, deep red, blue, green, pink and purple. At the end of the day, everyone's body and clothes are completely dyed in multiple colors, resulting from the mixtures of the pigments with which they have been sprayed.

This is Holi by Matt Luckey via Vimeo .

Many other cultures are infused with colors : just think of the spice markets in Morocco or Turkey, the silk shops in Thailand or Japan, or the facades of houses in Mexico .

Most researchers estimate that humans are capable of distinguishing approximately one million different colors. And yet any skilled painter can achieve that extraordinary variety of hues with just a few basic colors. A palette with white, black and eight or ten other colors is enough to paint practically any subject and reproduce any tonality. Artists achieve this by combining and mixing basic colors in an exercise of skill and creativity that requires experience and vision. And each artist, with that simple color palette, manages to paint many images while maintaining their own style.

The other day, when I left the cafe where I usually eat breakfast every morning, I saw that there were three red cars parked side by side. I put the word "red" in quotes because the three vehicles were not exactly the same color. One appeared slightly orange-red in color, the other tended very slightly to purple, and the third had a subtle hint of coral. For a painter it would be very easy and very fast to reproduce those three different reds in their palettes by combining the colors of their 10 or 12 tubes.

Something similar happens when building a narrative. Therefore, when you put together the story of your brand or organization you need to have, like a painter, some basic elements that allow you, through mixtures and combinations, to create different narrative pieces, from advertisements on social networks or television. , to press releases or presentations.

These elements are like colors that will allow you to put together a palette with the tones you need to tell your story , maintaining consistency and a unique style of your own over time.

The elements you need for this task are the following 9:

1. Passion

Image: arv jpr via Unsplash

When we think of characters like Henry Ford , Roald Amundsen, Walt Disney or Steve Jobs, we immediately know what their motivations were, what dreams guided their actions, and what goals they passionately pursued.

What best characterizes your organization or your brand and what makes it memorable and unique is the passion that drives it. That passion stems from specific values that determine actions and behaviors in everything your organization does. Keep in mind that your customers and your collaborators will be attracted and engaged if your brand is capable of projecting a passion for what it does, for its products or services. Having passion for some aspect of what you do gives you a huge advantage and allows you to always be ahead of your competitors, because it encourages you to dedicate more time and energy than they do.

2. Antagonists

Image: Shuvra Podder via Unsplash

The most powerful brands and organizations are those that face strong antagonists who run counter to their values and stand between them and their passion. Antagonists can be outdated people, organizations, fears, biases, rules, perceptions, or processes. Those antagonists must be shared by your audiences so that everyone can identify with your brand's struggle. A brand, for example, that fights against monopoly in a category and the excessive cost of certain products, connects very easily with many consumers.

3. Genesis

Image: Depositphotos.com

Genesis is the starting point of your brand or organization. When and how was it created, what were the challenges that had to be overcome at the beginning, who were the allies in that process? Remembering the birth of your project, you will be able to find the details that help you to give the history of your brand the tonality it needs.

4. Status quo

Image: Depositphotos.com

The status quo corresponds to the state of the organization today and describes its position in the market and what customers or collaborators think of it.

5. Call to action

Image: Debashis RC Biswas via Unsplash

It is that circumstance or that disruptive event that implies a change or an evolution of the status quo and the need for a new history. Perhaps the call to action stems from a loss of market share or the difficulty of growing sales. It can arise from the complexity of the distribution system or from a change in social habits. The call to action is an alarm bell that rings to trigger a response and sets the tone for your story.

6. Higher purpose

Image: bhupesh pal via Unsplash

The most memorable historical figures like Gandhi and fictional characters like Robin Hood are directly related to the cause and higher purpose that drove them. The higher purpose of your brand or organization stems in part from your passion and expresses that motivation that goes beyond generating profits, making money, opening markets and growing.

7. Promised land

Image: bhupesh pal via Unsplash

Visualizing the future is one of the most important tasks you can do to boost your organization or your brand. Clearly painting a promised land, an ideal space that everyone can reach thanks to your products or services is the best way to attract audiences. That vision of the future has great power to determine the tonality of your story.

8. Emotions

Image: bhupesh pal via Unsplash

Emotions shape people's behavior. The story of your brand or organization should be designed to generate or enhance positive emotions (such as love, pride, belonging or happiness) in your customers or collaborators and reduce negative ones (such as fear, sadness or insecurity ). Being clear about the emotions you want to stimulate or counteract allows you to give your story the colors it needs.

9. Longings

Image: John Thomas via Unsplash

The wishes of your clients or collaborators should be part of the history of your organization. Everyone is going to connect emotionally with a brand that is able to understand and represent their dreams. Those yearnings should be part of the story you tell and be embedded in it naturally.

Think of these 9 elements as the ingredients of your story and visualize them as colors. When you start to build your story, add a little of the red of passion, the blue of emotions, the green of the promised land, the purple of the antagonists. Each of these elements adds a specific tonality to your story that, together with all the other nuances, brings to life a unique narrative for your brand or organization.

Copyright 2021 Entrepreneur.com Inc., All rights reserved
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This week the Biden administration will begin the process of reuniting migrant families who were separated by former president Trumps zero-tolerance immigration policy, the Department of Homeland Security announced.

DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said four families who were separated at the Mexico border are expected to be reunited this week.

The Family Reunification Task Force has been working day and night, across the federal government and with counsel for the families and our foreign partners, to address the prior administrations cruel separation of children from their parents, Mayorkas said in a statement.

Under Trumps policy, more than 5,500 children were separated from their parents dating back to July 2017, of which, more than 1,000 families remain separated according to DHS.

Today is just the beginning. We are reuniting the first group of families, many more will follow, and we recognize the importance of providing these families with the stability and resources they need to heal, Mayorkas said.

An attorney from the ACLU who is leading the organizations class-action lawsuit opposing the family separation policy, Lee Gelernt, told the New York Times this is a step in the right direction.

We are pleased the Biden administration has now taken its first steps to address the harm caused by the Trump administrations barbaric family separation practice and thrilled for the four families who will be reunited this week, Gelernt said. But we certainly do not intend to take a victory lap at this point. It is not enough for these families to be reunited.

But immigration advocacy group Al Otro Lado (AOL) said that the administration is taking too much credit for the reunions. Despite what Secretary Mayorkas would have the public believe, DHS has done nothing to facilitate the return and reunification of these parents this week, other than to agree to allow them in, Carol Anne Donohoe, managing attorney of Al Otro Lados Family Reunification Project, told NBC News. The only reason these mothers will be standing at the port of entry is because Al Otro Lado negotiated their travel visas with the Mexican government, paid for their airline tickets and arranged for reunification.

Even as these reunifications happen, the administration still faces an influx of children coming across the border who were brought to emergency intake centers run by the Department of Health and Human Services. As of Friday, the agency has 22,557 children under its care.
We're ramping up for a rather relaxing post-COVID summer, because two Carnival cruise ships have returned to the Port of Galveston.

Carnival Breeze and Carnival Vista arrived Sunday for the first time since the pandemic began wreaking havoc on businesses across Texas, per CNN's Amanda Jackson.

TRAVEL RETURN: Here are the countries now allowing U.S. travelers to visit

"Suspension of cruising from Galveston has resulted in huge losses for the Texas economy and families who rely on this industry," Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves port director and chief executive officer, said in April.

"Based on historical economic impact annual statistics, loses are estimated at $1.2 billion in direct spending, 23,000 jobs and $1.6 billion in wages statewide."

Cruise ships aren't allowed just yet to sail with passengers from the United States, but port officials did invite the public to come celebrate as the ships made their way back home, per Jackson.

Spectator Mike Welsch shared with Jackson that there were several hundred people in attendance at the wharves to watch the ships return.

"It was great seeing them come back to Galveston," Welsh told Jackson.

WILDFLOWER ROUTE: Texas' most beautiful bluebonnets can be found along the Ennis Bluebonnet Trails

The Centers for Disease Control Prevention is continuing to update safety requirements as cruises prepare to resume, including COVID-19 testing for cruise ship crews in U.S. waters and simulated voyages to assess a cruise ship operator's ability to mitigate COVID-19 onboard.

According to the Carnival Cruise Line, the Port of Galveston is North America' most popular cruise home port and Texas' only cruise port, per Jackson.
Standing at the Disneyland gates at 8:30 on Friday morning, we heard a sound in the distance. A sound no one had heard in more than 400 days: a long, friendly whistle, followed by the chugging of a steam train engine.

A rousing cheer erupted from the thousands of people waiting in line. The Disneyland railroad emerged from the trees and pulled into the Main Street Station.

Some waved and whooped. Some cried. Some held up phones to take pictures. But we all knew one thing at the same moment: This was really about to happen.

Its really special to be here, a total stranger said to the person behind her at the next distancing marker.

Like countless others, Ive often used Disneyland as a marker of milestones in my life. Going there for the first time crystallized in my mind as an important life event, and Ive celebrated plenty of birthdays and special occasions there in the years that followed.

Courtesy of Getty

I never expected to use the park as a marker of something truly terrible  but thats what happened last March. When Disneyland announced that it would be closing because of the pandemic, that was the moment when it hit me. Things were about to get really, really bad.

I knew I wasnt alone in feeling that way. If a multibillion dollar company willingly chose to shutter in response to a health event, it had to mean that the event in question was severe beyond any reasonable doubt.

Julie Tremaine/SFGATE

Standing at those gates, waiting to get into a place that had been closed for the better part of 14 months, it was the total opposite.

Things were about to get really, really good.

I lined up at the temperature check just before 7 a.m. for Disneylands 9 a.m. opening, expecting to wait for hours upon hours like I did for the reopening of the Buena Vista Street extension of Downtown Disney in November. But at 8 a.m., they started letting people through, and I was past the temperature check, security dog screening and bag check in less than 15 minutes. Another seamless 15 minutes later, I was inside the gates, walking underneath the sign that says, Here you leave today, and enter the land of yesterday, tomorrow and fantasy.

Its a message that hit harder that day than it usually does. People who love Disneyland havent been able to leave today for a year that has, at times, felt like it lasted a lifetime, when weve been in one unending bad news cycle.

When I got to Town Square, the area in the park that leads into Main Street U.S.A. and down to Sleeping Beauty Castle, I stopped to take it all in. There were people all around me crying happy tears, tears of relief, of sharing something joyful with their friends again, of being able to shed the weight weve been collectively carrying for so long. A woman in her 50s in head-to-toe Mickey gear stood next to me, crying and hugging her friend. Im just so happy to be back, she said. It was something I heard over and over again all day long.

Down the sidewalks of Main Street were hundreds of cast members waving, cheering, blowing bubbles in the air with those Mickey bubble wands. Welcome back! they said. Were so happy to see you! We missed you. Guests, as they walked towards the castle, gave it all back to them. We missed you too, some said. We missed you so much.

Courtesy of Getty

The park didnt technically open until 9, but by that time, I had already been on three rides in Fantasyland without a wait at all, including Peter Pans Flight, which has not been modified in the closure. Wait times for that ride, and most of the rides on that side of the park, stayed low all day, partly because of the reduced crowd size and partly because a new ride, Snow Whites Enchanted Wish, debuted upon reopening. That, and the revamped Haunted Mansion, were the most in-demand rides of the day.

The 30 minutes I waited to get on the Snow White ride brought me through a queue that snaked down the pathway past the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, down the bridge to the Royal Theatre where Cinderella and Rapunzel were inside, interacting with guests by chatting from a distance and posing while people took socially distanced selfies. Unlike Walt Disney World where guests are now allowed to remove masks for photos, Disneyland requires masks at all times unless stopped and actively eating or drinking.

It was complicated to understand where to stand next, but there were cast members throughout to help. We have to be a little mindful of things like the markers now just so that we can be safe, one said to me as we were chatting in line, but its worth it though just to get to be here. I heard and overheard similar things all day long: Cast members were cheerful and upbeat helping people navigate the new systems, and people were complying, even with mask wearing. I asked employees all day long if they had to remind people to wear masks, and across the board, they said no. Im not sure I even heard a single guest complaining in the way that people who are hot and overtired and paying a lot of money to be somewhere tend to do in Disney parks. The good cheer, it seemed, was everywhere.

While I was waiting in that Snow White line, I watched a woman with a young girl dressed as a princess stop to ask a cast member a question. See ya, princess! he said to the girl as they walked away. He turned aside. Oh, the kiddos, he said to himself. I missed the kiddos.

Across the way at Disney California Adventure, Mickey and Minnie stood in Carthay Circle, waving to guests. Mickey did an occasional softshoe. Minnie blew kisses. The ride times were also generally easy. The line for Radiator Springs Racers, often a two-hour wait, was at times 15 minutes long and at times a walk-on.

The biggest downside of the day had to do with food, which is limited. Most of the parks sit-down restaurants are still closed, and the procedures for quick service restaurants have changed. Most quick service restaurants are serving limited menus, and have completely stopped taking orders at cash registers, only allowing orders to be placed through smartphones on the Disneyland app or website. To place an order, you pick a time slot to pick up your food, then choose what you want to eat, and pay for it at the time of order with a linked credit card. At lunchtime, there was wide availability, but as the day progressed, people in the know scooped up later pickup times. By 5 p.m., there was no availability to get food at Plaza Inn at all, nor could you get a Dole whip from Tropical Hideaway for the rest of the day. (If youre planning a trip soon, make sure you order food early, and structure your day around food pickups the way you used to around the not-currently-available Fast Passes.)

Julie Tremaine/SFGATE

There are other downsides. Some of the iconic rides, like Jungle Cruise and the Matterhorn, are closed. You cant hug Mickey and Minnie the way you used to be able to. Some ride features, because they count as indoor shows, arent currently allowed in the state guidelines.

For the most part, though, what wasnt there didnt seem to matter much.

The pandemic isnt over. On Disneylands opening day, the CDC reported 53,000 new cases of COVID-19 in the U.S. Were still going to wear masks for a long time. Even Disney CEO Bob Chapek has gone on the record speculating that theyll be required in the parks through at least the end of 2021.

But that day, being among so many joyful people who were grateful to be there, things felt good again. There was magic in the air that hasnt been there for a year that felt like it stretched into infinity. Its what we came to Disneyland for, and we got it.
The thrill of attending summer camp will return for some this year as several Jacksonville organizations are offering modified programs for the summer months.

After programs were canceled last year because of the pandemic, organization this year are finding ways to restart the summer tradition for children.

The Bob Fressen YMCA will have a summer camp with registration now open.

Executive Director Mary Henry said registration is limited to 60 children because of spacing availability to meet current state guidelines.

We are absolutely thrilled to have camp this year, Henry said. We really missed the children last year. Summers are the highlight of the year.

The camp will run from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday from June 1 to Aug. 13.

Henry said 40 children will be able to attend the camp daily, though several have only signed up for two days a week, which is why 60 children are being accepted for registration.

She said while students attend the camp, there will be additional safety precautions taken to help increase health safety, including temperature checks and health screenings at the start of each day, additional hand washing and as many outdoor activities as possible.

When children are inside, social distancing will be observed with only a few children at each table.

About 80% of our staff has already been vaccinated and we all feel comfortable that we will be able to run a safe and fun environment for the kids this summer, she said.

Lunches will also be provided by Passavant Area Hospital so all safety guidelines are observed.

Henry said this year the YMCA even has a new camp director, DeVante White.

This is a year when everything has to be different, but we want to make the most of it, Henry said.

Henry said the YMCA will continue to look at the states guidelines and make changes if necessary.

According to its Facebook, the Western Illinois Youth Camp is also planning to hold a six-week camp.

We have been working very hard to try and get Summer Camp 2021 up and running, the organization posted on March 23. We are still working on a few things and cant announce any specifics yet, but we are hoping to have at least six weeks of summer camp at about 50% capacity of what we normally have had it.
NEW HAVEN  Jeff Lassen, fourth-generation owner of the iconic Louis Lunch, is not backing down from the claim that his eatery is the birthplace of the hamburger sandwich.

The debate arose again recently  this time in a Connecticut Magazine article  in which an person who said they had been researching the history of the hamburger for decades found an advertisement in a Texas newspaper dating from 1894 that said, Hamburger steak sandwiches served every day in the week at Barnys Saloon, Moulton.

Thats six years before Louis Lassen is said to have served the nations first hamburger sandwich in New Haven in 1900.

But, Its not legitimate evidence, Jeff Lassen said. It proves nothing to me.

As the Louis Lunch story goes, a hurried customer requested a fast meal from the restaurants original owner Louis Lassen, so Lassen placed his own blend of ground steak trimmings between two slices of toast and sent the gentleman on his way.

The status of Louis Lunch as the first hamburger and first steak sandwich in the United States was made official in 2016 when the Library of Congress approved information and testimony submitted by U.S. Rep. Rosa L. DeLauro, D-3.

The writer who contacted Connecticut Magazine said the announcement about Barnys Saloon appeared about every two weeks in the Shiner Gazette out of Shiner, Texas, between April 12 and Aug. 23, 1894.

Following the email about the Texas burger, Connecticut Magazine then found an online story by burger expert Chris Carosa referencing an 1894 report in the San Francisco Chronicle about the hamburger in the California city, including an illustration, that the magazine said proves the hamburger existed, both in form and in name.

The cartoon depicts a cook working two skillets and flipping what appear to be burgers or some other meat.

But Lassen said he believes the illustrations cartoon-like appearance belies its credibility.

The ads cited look like a cartoon and, it just doesnt lend any credence that its legitimate, Jeff Lassen said.

Louis Lunch was founded in 1895.

Were the only one that has been around this long and stood the test of time, he said. The business has been passed down for four generations. It leaves very little possibility that we are not number one.

Jeff Lassen said he still uses the restaurants cast iron vertical broilers dating back to 1898  the date stamped on the appliance. The vertical broilers have a flame on either side and a drip pan below so theres much better cooking.

The toaster used for the bread is from 1929, Lassen said.

The one point that is never disputed when debates about the origin date arises is that Louis Lunch serves scrumptious burgers that are made from a special blend of five meats ground fresh daily.

Jeff Lassen is so adamant about customers getting all the taste of the special meat blend  like his father, grandfather and great-grandfather  he doesnt provide or allow condiments such as ketchup or mayonnaise, only a choice of onion, tomato or cheese.

The eatery has been on televisions food and history channels, and several times has made high-profile lists for best burger in America.

Lassen said its an honor that his eatery is the birthplace of the hamburger sandwich in the United States and he stays true to the family tradition.

Lassen said the designation in the Library of Congress says first hamburger and steak sandwich because the burger came from the trimmings of a steak.

Project documentation for the Library of Congress designation includes a history of the New Haven institution, magazine and newspaper articles, historic photographs and a personal reminiscence penned by Kenneth Lassen.

According to Connecticut History, Texas state Rep. Betty Brown drafted a bill in 2006 claiming Fletcher Davis of Athens, Texas, created the hamburger. Since then, other challenges from Hamburg, N.Y., and Seymour, Wis., have cropped up unsuccessfully.

The Connecticut Magazine piece concluded, after plenty of digging, we concluded there is no verifiable answer to the question of who invented the meaty meal.

Further, filmmaker and burger expert George Motz told Connecticut Magazine : The claim that Louis Lunch has is semi-legit, adding that other claims are equally valid and equally muddy. There really is no solid claim.

Connecticut Magazine also noted, another burger buff, Richard Auffrey, who goes by The Passionate Foodie on his food blog, points to 1894 as a breakthrough year.

He, too, mentions Barnys as the first published reference, Connecticut Magazine noted, adding that just three days after the April 12, 1894, Barnys notice, the Chicago Tribune wrote of a Chi-Town restaurant on wheels, a nocturnal sandwich wagon, that served hamburger steak sandwiches. Just over a month later, on May 16, the Roanoke Times of Virginia ran an ad for The Concordia restaurant, which distinguished itself with not only The Finest and Largest Glass of Beer in the City, but also a hamburger steak sandwich, the Connecticut Magazine story reports.

In 1894, the Hamburger Steak Sandwich was already known across the country, and not just in one limited region, Auffrey wrote on his blog. If this sandwich had been invented in a specific city or town, it would have taken some time for its existence to have become known to others, and to spread to other parts of the country. So, its invention was likely at least a couple years before 1894, if not more.

But Lassen isnt buying any of it. The burger joint states clearly on its website, Birthplace of the Hamburger Sandwich.

If this story got you hungry, Louis Lunch is open Tuesday and Wednesday from noon to 9 p.m.; Thursday, Friday and Saturday from noon to 11 p.m.; and closed Sunday and Monday.
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Market Research Future Published a Half-Cooked Research Report on Refractories Market Research Report.

Market Insights

Market Research Future has recently made public its report on the global refractories market which divulges various crucial market figures. The global refractories market is due to grow at a CAGR of 4.02%during the forecast period 2016 to 2022. Used extensively for linings in furnaces, reactors and other processing units due to its heat-resistant composition, the market is expected to move forward with steady and moderate growth.

The demand for refractories material is consistent due to its ability to resist extremely high temperatures without resulting in physical or chemical changes. Refractories have been witnessing rising applications in emerging markets due to its extensive use in manufacturing and in the construction industry. These emerging markets are key in the progress of the market and are also among the largest produces of refractories. Additionally, the growing demand for infrastructure has resulted in high demand for glass, metals, and cement in the construction sector.

Market Segmentation

MRFR's analysis of the market divides it into various segments in an effort to magnify every relevant market factor. Segmentation has been performed on the basis of type, form, application, and region. By type, the market is segmented into high alumina, magnesite, silica brick, fireclay, and others. Based on form, the market is divided into unshaped and shaped.

By application, the market is categorized into steel, cement, glass, non-ferrous, and others. The steel sector is the largest consumer of refractories. Globally used due to its lightweight, and heat resistant nature, refractories are highly suitable for use in the steel industry.

The global refractories market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific and the Rest of the World.

Key Players

The competitive landscape of the global market is covered expensively in MRFRs report, and includes key market players such as Shinagawa Refractories Co. Ltd, Saint-Gobain S.A, RHI AG, Magnesita Refratarios S.A., Harbisonwalker International (HWI) Inc, Coorstek Incorporated, Krosaki Harima Corporation, Corning Incorporated, Vesuvius PLC, and Morgan Advanced Materials PLC

Latest Industry News

RHI Magnesita has announced its decision to merge its Indian operations under Orient Refractories The move comes in recognition of the potential the region represents.

HarbisonWalker International has opened its refractories plant in Ohio, U.S.A after its announcement of the project in 2017. The UD 30 Mn investment has resulted in a technologically advanced refractories plant which will provide the latest in refractories.

Regional Analysis

The Asia Pacific region accounts for the most significant market share and is followed by Europe and North America. The presence of a massive, ever-growing population in the region has driven the construction sector considerably with an increased demand for housing, and infrastructure in rapidly urbanizing countries. The region is one of the largest producers of refractories which is likely to assist in the APAC remaining in its leading position beyond the forecast period.

Led by the US, North America is another significant region in the global refractories market. The U.S is the largest consumer of refractories and the demand for steel and cement in construction activities drive the market in the region.

BROWSE RELATED REPORT @

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WEST HAVEN  Stowes Seafood has reopened after a four-month makeover and Alli Adrian was craving it so much that she stopped in at 11:30 a.m. Saturday to have a cup of their famous New England clam chowder, then returned an hour later for lunch with her parents.

It looks modern, but it still has that look that makes it unique, Adrian said.

That look she refers to is casual, weather-worn nautical, buoys, anchors, pirate memorabilia and fishing nets abound, surrounded by flower beds and 10 outdoor tables with a view of the shore across Beach Street.

Its the look owner Wayne and Karen Capone, married for 45 years, were going for when they decided to remodel after the need arose for a new fryer hood, combined with the pandemics effects on the way they did business.

Wayne Capone, who carries on his grandparents legacy with a seafood eatery, said after 40 years in business there was opportunity for change, so he and his wife seized the moment.

I was getting burnt out because the place was burnt out, Capone, 65, said, explaining it was hard to maintain. It needed a face-lift, so that energized me. Its easier (now) for us to take care of.

Stowes is open seven days a week, year-round, except for major holidays.

With a building of 800 square feet  the footprint remains the same  Capone said he has always called the place a food truck without wheels.

When people refer to Stowes as a great restaurant, he corrects them: I have a seafood shack.

The shack has a strong following, as he described it, and the crowds came back in droves the first weekend when the reopening was announced on Facebook. During the closure, social media was buzzing with inquiries about when Stowes would open and, at first, panic at the idea it had closed for good.

People are coming back; I knew they would. We put out good food and thats all you have to do, he said.

The eatery serves popular seafood  fish and chips, lobster, shrimp, clams  and also sells fresh raw seafood and recipes such as seafood-stuffed portobello mushrooms to be cooked at home.

In these pandemic times, orders are taken at a walk-up window under a metal canopy covering a new wooden deck where there once was gravel.

I think its beautiful, customer Paul Ferro said as he returned to Stowes for clam strips and a hot dog platter. This is nicer - its amazing how much food they can put out.

Shirley McIver was there early to get a few combos including oysters, shrimp and scrod.

I couldnt wait for it to open back up, she said.

Its very much a hands-on family business and Wayne Capone said he and Karen work well together. The Capones have three children  two daughters and a son  all of whom have worked there at some point and two who still do. Son-in-law Travis is part of the crew and makes a popular Texas Travis gumbo. Capone said they have a small crew of five who have been with him for years and those who arent related by blood are like his adopted kids.

Inside, the tiny, immaculate kitchen is a little larger after the remodel, because the inside dining tables have been removed.

All the cooking equipment is new and there are two new display cases for fresh fish - rather than one. The inside walls have been covered in gray, wooden barn siding for a clean, rustic look.

Outside, the canvas awning over the seating area has been replaced with a metal top so heaters can run in the colder months.

There are 10 outdoor tables with beach umbrellas to the side of the property - the same as before - and all were full on a recent afternoon.

Strong wooden flower boxes sprinkled inside with colorful flowers tended by Karen Capone and nautical trinkets protect the patio from vehicles. Theyve always had flowers, but they used to be in old whiskey barrels.

Wayne Capone grew up in the business, as his maternal grandparents, George and Mamie Stowe, opened a fish market business in 1937 or so on Bayview Place. In 1950 they started serving cooked fish and eventually that restaurant, Stowes Pilot House, became a huge success, handling banquets for as many as 300 people overlooking Long Island Sound.

People went to Stowes for seafood and Jimmies for hot dogs, he said, referring to his grandparents place.

Previous to the successful business, the Stowes owned a fish store on Campbell Avenue in the 1920s, but they lost it when the Great Depression took hold.

Capone remembers helping his grandparents as a young teen and hating cutting fish more than anything. Maturity set in, he said, and hes been cutting fish about every day for the last 40 years.

His grandfather died in 1969 when Capone was 15 and the family sold it in 1971.

Eventually, when it was to become another restaurant, Capone retrieved mementos from his grandparents time, including the original Stowes sign.

Around 1980, after traveling extensively together through Europe, Wayne and Karen set out to find a place for a fish business of their own and, We found this corner, he said, referring to their landmark spot.

For the first 10 years they were a fresh fish market only, but then grocery stores opened fresh fish counters, so they needed an additional revenue stream.

Then we started to fry, little by little, Capone said, noting it was the step his grandparents took years ago.

People have encouraged the Capones to take over the much bigger Chicks Drive-in space down the street, but Capone said then he would need 30 employees.

Capone said his crew did most of the remodeling work themselves, except for specialty areas such as electricity.

As for the thousands of nautical trinkets and memorabilia he and Karen have collected through the years  its like a museum  they packed them away at the beginning of the remodel and had fun reminiscing when unpacking them to clean and put out again, he said.

It took 40 years to get all this junk, he quipped - and it came to them in different ways, including on beach walks, at tag sales, during travels, from his children and many customers.

A few times he received bundles of nautical items from men who said they were getting married and their wives wouldnt let them keep the stuff. At least if the items were displayed at Stowes, they could visit the trinkets, theyve told Capone, he said.

One man had Capone write his name on the back of his donated nautical pieces in case the marriage didnt work out and he wanted them back.

Inside Stowes are some special treasures, such as his grandmothers costume jewelry billowing out of a small treasure chest in keeping with the pirate theme; his grandfathers original Stowes sign and a set of some 26 pirate heads that his children gave him over several holidays. There is art created by wife Karen from sea glass she collects, and newspaper clippings showing advertisements when lobster was 49 cents per pound and one when could get twin lobsters, a potato, vegetable and salad at his grandfathers restaurant for $2.99.

Lots of family pictures hang inside - including of his grandparents and parents  and as a true Westie, Capone has other West Haven memorabilia on display, including a framed collection of postcards depicting Savin Rock Amusement Park.

Asked when he might retire, Capone said, When you see the soles of my feet being carried out the front door.
Starting this Summer, Texas A&M International University incoming freshmen wishing to get a head start on college-level, Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) research skills can apply to be a part of an innovative, $1.65 million U.S. National Science Foundation-funded program and research project designed to prepare them for a lifetime of academic success.

TAMIUs USTEM Program, funded by the NSF, provides selected students with a $2,000 stipend award to engage in a two-semester, two-summer STEM enrichment offering.

Dr. Claudia San Miguel, TAMIU College of Arts and Sciences dean underscored the programs student focus.

TAMIU incoming freshmen majoring in undergraduate Biology, Chemistry, Engineering and Mathematics are encouraged to apply for the Program, which is focused on improving and increasing STEM graduation and retention rates, San Miguel said.

Associate dean Dr. Marcus Antonius Ynalvez said the program presents a singular student opportunity.

The TAMIU USTEM Program offers a rare opportunity to contribute to important science research while a TAMIU student. This is part of a research grant that explores how STEM-focused video projects influence a participants psychosocial and STEM persistence outcomes, Ynalvez said.

During the summer, USTEM students will watch movies, participate in fun activities, and some will be part of a group that will create video projects. During Fall and Spring semesters, they will get a head start with STEM courses through lectures and lab exercises. During the fourth semester, they will engage in a summer research project and a field trip to San Antonio.

The great thing about our program is that participants will essentially get paid to learn, Ynalvez said. They will receive eight, monthly payments of $250 per month. Whats even better is that this money can be used for non-tuition expenses.

The USTEM program will be offered in a face-to-face setting, following social distancing protocols. Selected students will receive six credit hours that will count towards their degree plan, he explained.

There is no minimum GPA for program acceptance. Applicants must be newly admitted TAMIU freshmen, be enrolled full-time at TAMIU for the duration of the program and be U.S. Citizens, National or Permanent Residents.

They must apply to be part of a random selection process and, if selected, will be eligible for compensation. The program application takes less than 10 minutes and the deadline to apply is May 31.

For additional information, please contact TAMIU USTEM program manager Alicia Segovia at (956) 326-2469 or email ustem@tamiu.edu; Dr. Ynalvez at (956) 326-2621 or email mynalvez@tamiu.edu, or visit the USTEM site.
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Monosodium Glutamate Market Analysis

The global monosodium glutamate market is predicted to touch USD 6,200 million at a 4.9% CAGR between 2016- 2022, reveals the new Market Research Future (MRFR) report. Monosodium glutamate or MSG is an amino acid that is naturally occurring in various foods. Its use as flavor enhancers and food additives has gained immense recognition over the years. Besides, it is also used in bakery and dairy products globally. In addition, monosodium glutamate is widely used in instant noodles, seasonal blends, cheeses, meat and milk products, and sauces. Apart from the food industry, MSG is also used in pharmaceutical/medical applications. These include hypertension neuroregulators and parenteral nutrition for congenital metabolic disease. It is also used in negligible amounts in animal feeds.

Various factors are adding to the global monosodium glutamate market share. These factors, as per the new MRFR report, include extensive applications including preservatives, acidity regulators, flavor enhancers, additives, and others, growing demand in the food industry, rapidly growing animal feed industry, preference for fast food & processed food due to hectic lifestyle, and increasing use in different medical applications.

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On the contrary, health concerns related to monosodium glutamate consumption such as nausea, chest pain, sweating, headache, and skin rash, coupled with its regulation by regional Food & Drug Administration (FDA) authorities, are factors that may limit the monosodium glutamate market growth over the forecast period.

Key Players

Key players profiled in the global monosodium glutamate market report include Jianyang Wuyi MSG Co. Ltd. (China), Shandong Shenghua Group (China), Shandong Qilu Biotechnology Group (China), Shandong Linghua MSG Co., Ltd (China), KYOWA HAKKO BIO CO.LTD. (Japan), Ningxia Eppen Biotech Co. (China), Vedan International (Holdings) Limited (Hong Kong), AJINOMOTO Co.Inc. (Japan), and Fufeng Group (China), among others.

Monosodium Glutamate Market Segmentation

The Market Research Future Report provides an inclusive segmental analysis of the global monosodium glutamate market based on end use industries and applications.

By application, the monosodium glutamate market is segmented into preservatives, acidity regulators, flavor enhancers, additives, and others. Of these, flavor enhancers and additives will lead the market over the forecast period. This will be followed by acidity regulators and preservatives.

By end use industries, the monosodium glutamate market is segmented into animal feed, pharmaceutical industry, cosmetic industry, food processing industry, and others. Of these, the cosmetic and food processing industry will dominate the market over the forecast period for its burgeoning demand from Chinas growing economies. Besides, the increasing demand of monosodium glutamate from different end use industries is also adding market growth.

Monosodium Glutamate Market Regional Analysis

Based on the region, the global monosodium glutamate market report covers the recent trends and growth opportunities across Europe, the Americas, the Asia Pacific (APAC), Latin America, and the Middle East and Africa (MEA). Of these, the APAC region will spearhead the market over the forecast period. Factors propelling the global monosodium glutamate market growth in the region include use in different applications like flavor enhancers and additives in China and Japan, and burgeoning demand for fast food in South Korea, Taiwan, and India.

The global monosodium glutamate market in North America is predicted to have the second-largest share over the forecast period. The US is the chief contributor in the region for the growing demand for the product from the food manufacturing industry coupled with the rising demand for Asian food.

The global monosodium glutamate market in Europe is predicted to have a healthy growth over the forecast period for the rapidly growing food manufacturing sector.

The global monosodium glutamate market in Latin America and the Middle East & Africa is predicted to have sound growth over the forecast period for the increasing use of monosodium glutamate in different applications like preservatives, acidity regulators, flavor enhancers, additives, to name a few.

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The Republican Party of Texas called Brooks Landgrafs radioactive waste bill  House Bill 2692  a BAD BILL on its official party Twitter account.

The party added to those who have objected to the passage of the bill that includes state Rep. Tom Craddick of Midland and Tommy Taylor of Fasken Oil and Ranch.

Landgraf of Odessa co-authored the bill that would ban the storage and disposal of high-level nuclear waste away from civilian nuclear power plants or university research reactors in Texas. A proposal from Waste Control Specialists to expand their existing nuclear waste site in Andrews County to store high-level waste would be impacted by the bill.

Craddick earlier in the session sent a letter to the Environmental Regulation Committee that stated the bill muddies the waters between a tax cut for a specific vendor and the issue of high-level radioactive waste storage in Texas. Taylor spoke in opposition of the bill before it was voted out of committee, 6-2.

The Texas Legislature Online history website showed the bill was set to be placed on the General State Calendar on Tuesday.

The Texas GOP last week wrote the following on its Twitter page:

Bad Bill! HB 2692 by Brooks Landgraf removes safety guidelines to dump nuclear waste in TX. Dumped waste NO LONGER has to be buried in canisters but may be spread freely. This is terrible 4 ALL communities. Call@BrooksLandgraf @ (512) 463-0546 and tell him HB 2692 stinks. #txlege.
On Thursday, Mayor Sylvester Turner stood with new Houston Police Chief Troy Finner and other city leaders to announce new policies intended to reform policing in the city of Houston.

CITY COUNCIL OFFERS POLICY CHANGE: City council members propose 25 new HPD policy changes

Turner said during the press conference that the changes will ensure that police and the community are on the same page. Watch the full press conference below.

The new changes were developed by the Mayor's Task Force on Policing Reform, which is comprised of 45 people who are focused on "finding actionable ways to help the police department improve its crisis aversion methods and promote community policing," per Chloe Alexander at KHOU.

Turner assembled the task force after the tragic death of Houstonian George Floyd, who was killed by Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin in May 2020.

The announcement comes after the police reform task force released a 153-page report in September that recommended more than 100 reforms to improve the department.

One of the biggest issues on its docket? Determining when body-camera videos should be released to the public.

Turner shared a statement regarding body camera footage on his Twitter.

During the press conference, Finner said the department will now be releasing body cam video within 30 days of any incidents where death or injury is involved. He said the department will be releasing body cam video to a prosecuting authority investigating a federal and/or state incident within 24 hours of notice.

A few other changes are coming to the department as well, including:

A ban on "no-knock" warrants for nonviolent offenses.

A Deputy Inspector General for the new Office of Policing Reform and Accountability.

Expansion of existing partnerships between HPD, mental health professionals and social services organizations.

An Executive Order to restructure the Independent Police Oversight Board (IPOB) and name a new board chair.

The Police Transparency Dashboard website, which changes how the public can file complaints and access information on a newly designed website with five data dashboards regarding police transparency.

"As a native Houstonian who grew up in underserved communities, I believe this is a very important moment. But it is even more gratifying because it was Houstonians who put together these recommendations, and we are now acting on them and will continue to act on implementation," said Mayor Turner. "I am also inspired by the council members because it has been a collective effort."

INCREASED POLICE BUDGET: Houston does the exact opposite of 'defunding the police'

To help bring these new policies into fruition, Turner is expanding crisis case diversion and investing $25 million in crisis intervention over three years, according to the press release.

"I believe the work that this task force has done will benefit this city for years to come," Turner said. "I do believe what is happening here is transformational, and other cities across the country are taking note."
The company operating the Andrews County low-level nuclear waste facility is pushing a bill in the Texas Legislature that is a win-win-win for the company but a big loser for the people of Texas.

If HB 2692 passes the Legislature, Waste Control Specialists will get a huge tax cut, reduce its costs by reducing safety standards and  if a provision in the bill to ban highly toxic nuclear waste is struck down in court and a federal license to store the waste is granted  a new revenue stream. That highly toxic waste will be shipped from around the country on Texas highways to Waste Controls facility.

The company is selling HB 2692 under the disguise of the highly toxic nuclear waste ban provision that most legal experts agree would be unlikely to survive a legal challenge and would be declared unconstitutional. Waste Control Specialists bill would give the company a 67 percent tax cut and reduce safety standards by eliminating requirements that waste be containerized and compacted before being placed in the ground.

Waste Control Specialists officials have said publicly that they will continue to push for a license from the Washington D. C.-based U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission to authorize the storage of highly toxic spent fuel rods at the disposal facility. Although the storage is meant to be temporary, most industry people believe the spent fuel rods would be stored at the facility for hundreds of years, if not forever.

The legislation would reduce a disposal surcharge that goes to an emergency cleanup fund from 20 percent to 5 percent and eliminate a 5-percent state surcharge on non-federal compact waste. According to the Legislative Budget Board, those surcharge and fee reductions would save WCS $1.524 million annually.

The LBBs fiscal note, however, is artificially low as it does not account for a likely increase in waste being sent to the facility and a corresponding increase in the amount of money going from WCS to the cleanup fund and the state. With 20 U.S. nuclear plants currently being decommissioned, WCS will see a huge increase in Class B and C waste coming its way as plants are demolished. WCS is the only company in the U.S. with a permit to dispose of Class B and C waste.

WCS has hired a top Austin lobbying firm to help pass HB 2692 and its identical companion, SB 1046. Both bills have received hearings before their respective committees, with HB 2692 being posed to be voted on by the full House as early as next week.

During the hearing before the Environmental Regulation Committee on March 22, the bill was opposed by oil and gas, business and environmental groups, most of whom pointed out the incongruity of language in the bill that would ban permanent storage of higher-grade waste while the company pursues the spent fuel rod permit in Washington.

A coalition of Permian Basin landowners and oil and gas companies, which includes Fasken Oil and Ranch, opposes increased nuclear waste storage in Andrews County.

The Austin lobbying firm WCS hired, Hillco Partners is being paid a small fortune to get this legislation passed. According to the Texas Ethics Commission, Hillco founder Neal T. Buddy Jones and seven other members of his firm will be paid up to $558,190 to lobby on WCS behalf.

WCS claims of near insolvency are obviously yet another hollow cry of wolf. The company has repeatedly sought to reduce its fees and surcharges since its disposal permit was granted. Last session, an amendment tacked onto an unrelated bill that would have held the fees and surcharges in abeyance until 2021 led to the bill being vetoed by Governor Greg Abbott.

The federal permit WCS is pursuing would allow it to store the spent fuel rods at the Andrews County site until the federal government decides on a long-term storage plan. Currently, nuclear plants are required to store the rods on-site because of concerns about transporting the highly toxic material.

Gov. Greg Abbott has opposed the federal permit, saying in a letter to federal authorities that it is a greater radiological risk than Texas is prepared to allow. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission will release an environmental impact statement and a safety evaluation report on the application in May but the timetable on a final decision is unknown.

Tommy Taylor is the president of the Permian Basin Coalition of Land Royalty Owners and Operators and is also director of oil and gas development for Fasken Oil and Ranch. Fasken provided permission to run the opinion article in the Reporter-Telegram and at mrt.com
Texas Democrats on Sunday conceded that they had fallen short in a special election for a U.S. House seat in the state's 6th Congressional District, ensuring that a Republican will win a seat that had been trending away from the party.

Twenty-three candidates had been vying to represent the North Texas district after the death of Rep. Ron Wright, a Republican, in February after he was diagnosed with covid-19, the illness that can be caused by the novel coronavirus. Wright's widow, Susan Wright, secured the top runoff spot Saturday, with state Rep. Jake Ellzey, a Republican, taking second place.

MORE POLITICS: A running list of everyone mad at Ted Cruz in 2021

Democrat Jana Lynne Sanchez came in third, failing to qualify for the runoff by fewer than 400 votes. Voters cast 18,707 ballots for other Democratic candidates, splintering the vote and locking the party out of the runoff.

"Although a Democrat is not advancing to the runoff, yesterday's incredibly close margins showed that voters are invested in electing Democrats, and are fighting for the representation their communities deserve," Texas Democratic Party Chairman Gilberto Hinojosa said in a statement.

He tried to cast the race as a sign that Texas is moving closer to flipping blue. Donald Trump won the district in the November presidential election by three points; Mitt Romney won the district by 17 points in 2012.

Those numbers had made Democrats cautiously optimistic about the special election, though the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee stayed out of it. Sanchez, who outperformed every previous Democrat in the race when she ran three years ago, leaped into the contest early, just as the state was reeling from massive power failures after a winter storm.

"Democrats have come a long way toward competing in Texas, but we still have a long way to go," Sanchez said in statement conceding the race.

Local Democrats declined to endorse any candidate, with the party and elected officials staying neutral. Party bylaws would have required the Texas Democrats to hold a convention in the district, which they did not do.

Sanchez raised nearly $300,000, more than Wright, and was helped on the airwaves by Nuestro PAC, which ran English and Spanish commercials, and the 147 Project, a new group named for the number of House Republicans who voted to challenge the results of the 2020 presidential election.

"We believe that every election and every vote is worth fighting for and the 354 votes [that] kept Sanchez out of the runoff proved we were right," the group said in a statement Sunday.

To Democrats' frustration, more candidates piled into the primary, with little infrastructure, arguing that they were better positioned to consolidate the vote.

Shawn Lassiter, a local nonprofit director who had not run for office before, launched his campaign with a video about the devastating winter storm and picked up the support of 314 Action Fund, which backs candidates with STEM backgrounds, and the Collective PAC, which supports Black candidates.

Lydia Bean, a business executive who had lost a 2020 state legislative race, picked up the support of the AFL-CIO and the Teamsters.

In interviews before the election, Lassiter and Bean insisted that they had paths to the runoff and would not lock the party out.

"Our fundraising has proven that I can put together a coalition in order to win this seat," said Lassiter, who slightly outraised Sanchez.

"There's no reason to worry about that," Bean said, referring to the risk of an all-GOP runoff. "I have my own army that was ready to go from Day 1."

Neither candidate came close to the runoff, and Bean spent some of her resources on negative ads, falsely accusing Sanchez of not supporting the Democrats' upcoming infrastructure bill.

Rep. Ruben Gallego, D-Ariz., who leads the Congressional Hispanic Caucus's Bold PAC, said that the district attracted attention only because of Sanchez's strong 2018 bid, and that liberal groups who passed her over splintered the vote.

"Instead of backing the Latina, in Texas, they splintered our coalition," Gallego said. "Unfortunately, this happens often. Latino candidates are consistently second-guessed by progressive and Democratic groups. And it is going to have negative consequences come 2022 if they don't change their process."

Turnout was low, with fewer than 85,000 voters of all parties casting ballots and thousands of votes going to gadfly candidates. Bean got fewer votes than Tammy Allison, a Black female attorney who raised less than $50,000 while tweeting at local newspapers to accuse them of racism for not covering her.

Another candidate, Manuel Salazar, had no campaign presence, online or in the district, but got more than 1,000 votes, nearly triple the margin between Ellzey and Sanchez. Combined, all Democratic candidates got about 38% of the vote, compared with the 48% of the vote won last year by Joe Biden.

Trump stayed out of the race until the final week, endorsing Wright and participating in a Thursday night call on her behalf organized by the conservative Club for Growth, which also ran radio ads touting his support. While most of the early vote was cast before Trump's intervention, Wright surged with voters who turned out on Election Day.

"You will be very happy with this vote," he said, adding that Wright's husband "is looking down, and he is so proud of Susan."

In the final day of the race, Wright's campaign alerted federal authorities after voters began receiving unidentified robocalls that accused her of killing her husband to collect on his life insurance policy. Many of Wright's opponents, including Ellzey, condemned the call.

The date of the runoff between Wright and Ellzey will be set in coming days.
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Isatoic acid anhydride also known as o-amino-benzoic acid, 2-aminobenzoic acid, N-carboxylic acid anhydride, and anthranilic acid, is the organic compound with the linear formula C6H4(NH2)CO2H. In appearance, Isatoic acid anhydride is a white solid when pure, although commercial samples may appear yellow. By the structure, isatoic acid anhydride contains a benzene ring with two adjacent functional groups, a carboxylic acid and an amine. Industrially, Isatoic acid anhydride is used as an intermediate for production of dyes chemicals and in medical product. Isatoic acid anhydride and its esters are used in preparing perfumes to imitate jasmine and orange, pharmaceuticals, and UV-absorber as well as corrosion inhibitors for metals and mold inhibitors in soy sauce. In addition, isatoic acid anhydride can be used in organic synthesis to generate the benzyne intermediate. It is sometimes considered as vitamin L1.





Regional Analysis

Asia Pacific is the largest market of isatoic acid anhydride due to huge consumption in dye & pigments, and agrochemicals-market-1267'>agrochemical-market-749'>agrochemical industry, in China region followed by India, Thailand, and Japan. Increasing demand for agrochemical industry in China, India, Japan, Taiwan, and South Korea has made Asia Pacific largest consumer of the global Isatoic acid anhydride market followed by increasing in the consumption of Isatoic acid anhydride market in Europe region. In Europe region, Isatoic acid anhydride market is drive by perfume, pharmaceutical, and food & beverages industry. In addition, the third largest market of Isatoic acid anhydride is North America region due to large consumption in agricultural, pharmaceutical, and others industry. Moreover, Latin America and Middle East also observed in growth of Isatoic acid anhydride market due to various application such as pharmaceutical, dye & pigments, perfume, agrochemicals, and others.

Segmentation

The global isatoic acid anhydride market is majorly segmented on the basis of application, end use and region. Based on application of isatoic acid anhydride the market is segmented into dye & pigments, pesticides, herbicides, saccharin, flavors, and others. On the other hand, Based on end use industry of isatoic acid anhydride the market is segmented into pharmaceutical, agrochemicals, perfume, food & beverages, and others. Furthermore, based on region global isatoic acid anhydride market is segmented into North America, Europe, APAC, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa.

Key Players

Key players of the global Isatoic acid anhydride market are BASF SE (Germany), The Dow Chemical Company (US), Alfa Aesar (India), Crystal Quinone Pvt. Ltd. (India), Taj Active Pharmaceuticals Ingredients (India), Wujiang New Sunlion Chemical Co., Ltd. (China), HIMALAYA CHEMICALS (India), ISHITA INDUSTRIES (India), KESHAR EMULSION PVT LTD (India), TCI (Shanghai) Development Co., Ltd (China), and others.





Geographic Analysis

The report covers brief analysis of geographical region such as North America, Europe, APAC, and RoW.

The report about Global Isatoic acid anhydride Market by Market Research Future comprises of extensive primary research along with detail analysis of qualitative as well as quantitative aspects by various industry experts and key opinion leaders to gain a deeper insight of the market and industry performance. The report gives a clear picture of the current market scenario which includes past and estimated future market size in terms of value and volume, technological advancement, macro economical and governing factors in the market. The report further provides detail information about strategies used by top key players in the industry. It also gives a broad study about different market segments and regions.

ACCESS REPORT DETAILS @ https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/isatoic-acid-anhydride-market-3325

Study Objectives of Isatoic acid anhydride Market:

To provide detailed analysis of the market structure along with forecast for the next 7 years of the various segments and sub-segments of the Global Isatoic acid anhydride Market

To understand the supply and demand dynamics including supply and consumption concentration mapping

To provide region level market analysis and future outlook for North America, Europe, Asia, and Rest of the World (ROW) and their countries

To provide competitor positioning of the market

To provide company profiling of major players in the market along with their production and capacity

To provide regional trade analysis

To evaluate historical market trends, patents and technologies, and current government regulatory requirements that are relevant to the market

Intended Audience

Isatoic acid anhydride manufacturers

Traders and distributors of Isatoic acid anhydride

Production Process industries

Potential investors

Raw material suppliers

Nationalized laboratory
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Quemuel Arroyo is attracted by transportations ability to close social inequities. That is a big part of what led him down the path he has taken, he said on an April morning in Battery Park, now serving as the first chief accessibility officer at the Metropolitan Transportation Authority.

I honestly believe that transportation has the power to drastically enhance a community and individuals lives, he said, wearing a mask declaring New York Tough, or if not done the right way, really create barriers that preclude someone from living their best life.

But the inequities hes tasked with trying to overcome in New Yorks transit system are enormous. That became clear as Arroyo, who uses a wheelchair after a spinal cord injury at 18, exited the park for a scheduled photo shoot in the nearby Bowling Green station: The one elevator at the station was out of service.

That occurrence is hardly a rarity in New York. While station elevators had overall availability of 96% in 2018, the advocacy group TransitCenter found that 84% of elevators reported at least a weeks worth of outages that year. Thats on top of the already dismal availability of elevators for people with disabilities, older adults and other New Yorkers. Just 25% of the 472 subway stations across the city have elevators. Arroyo said the closest subway station to his home in Harlem doesnt have an elevator.

And there are plenty of other challenges for improving accessibility across the MTA. For one, the paratransit service offered to New Yorkers with disabilities, Access-A-Ride, is often called Stress-A-Ride by users because of its inconvenience.

While the creation of a new top level position at the MTA dedicated to accessibility has been celebrated by advocates for people with disabilities, there is still lingering concern that the appointment wont be enough to bring about big picture change. Some fear that Arroyo may not have enough power and influence within the MTA to bring a greater focus on accessibility. Some are worried that the position will be used as a public relations tool to make the MTA look as if its making progress while continuing business as usual.

The ultimate expression of that agencys commitment to accessibility will be expressed through the budget. And thats how were going to know if this has made a difference.  Ben Fried, TransitCenter spokesperson

Given that Arroyo is still only about four months into the job, it remains to be seen if those concerns will be realized. For his own part, Arroyo is confident in his ability to bridge the gap between New Yorkers with disabilities and the MTA, despite a long, fraught history between the two.

I always say that my role is not to be where the buck ends, or to be the guy on accessibility, Arroyo said. I'm the guy whos facilitating a conversation.

Arroyos foray into transit and accessibility led him to the New York City Department of Transportation in 2014, where hed go on to become chief accessibility specialist. When I first met with (then-Commissioner) Polly Trottenberg, I said to her, I dont see people with disabilities in the website, in your brochures, and I dont hear that as an agenda item, Arroyo said. That was our first conversation and she said, Huh, funny enough, thats one of the first things I noticed too. What are you going to do about it, like whats your plan?

During his five years at the city agency, the city built its first raised crosswalks which serve as speed bumps to slow drivers and allow older adults and people with disabilities to cross more easily. He also helped improve boarding on the Staten Island Ferry. Most people dont realize this, but tides change hourly, and if you are a person with a disability, your experience on and off a ferry could be quite different depending on the tide, Arroyo said. The city went on to allow people to board ferries on the lower levels, which was previously prohibited for security reasons, to get around that barrier.

Arroyo sees his role at the MTA as fairly similar to his role at the city Department of Transportation, except at a much, much larger scale. Hes tasked with bringing accessibility to the forefront throughout the MTA, which encompasses New York City Transit, the Long Island Railroad and Metro-North. Weaving that narrative and that agenda throughout the entire organization is a pretty steep challenge because youre dealing with very different organizations that have their own cultural identities, and now we're bringing them together, creating one identity, he said.

The paratransit service offered to New Yorkers with disabilities, Access-A-Ride, is often called Stress-A-Ride by users because of its inconvenience.

The MTA has historically been resistant to make changes that improve accessibility. The United Spinal Association, then known as the Eastern Paralyzed Veterans Association, was the first to take legal action against the MTA in 1979, arguing that the prevalence of inaccessible stations amounted to discrimination. The MTA argued in response that installing elevators in often old stations would be excessively expensive and difficult, and they would be used by few riders. But the lawsuit eventually led the transit authority to begin making improvements for passengers with disabilities. And with the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, those measures to improve accessibility became mandated by law.

Thirty years later, significant swathes of the citys subway system continue to fall short of the laws requirements. Logistical challenges make it difficult to install elevators in old stations in a century-old subway system, and the installations continue to be expensive. According to the MTAs latest capital plan, the cost of building new elevators in the citys subway system averaged $78 million per station, far more than similar projects in cities such as Boston and Paris.

Still, more efforts have been made in recent years to accelerate accessibility projects. Former New York City Transit President Andy Byford unveiled a plan in 2018 that aimed to make more stations accessible so that riders are never more than two stops away from a station with an elevator. He also hired Alex Elegudin to serve as senior adviser for systemwide accessibility, the first chief accessibility role at New York City Transit. Elegudin served as a predecessor to Arroyo.

Most recently, the MTAs 2020-2024 capital plan committed $5.5 billion to add elevators to 70 stations over five years. The COVID-19 pandemic and declining ridership devastated the MTAs finances this past year, leaving those plans up in the air, though the MTA has continued some elevator installations throughout the past year.

Advocates for people with disabilities are also concerned about how Access-A-Ride might be affected by financial woes related to the pandemic. The MTA has operated a popular pilot program to provide on-demand rides for $2.75 to about 1,200 Access-A-Ride users, which allowed passengers to bypass the inconvenience of scheduling rides a day in advance. The convenience has led users to take trips more frequently.

The MTA proposed doubling the number of program participants in 2019, but while also capping monthly rides to 16 per user and capping the ride subsidy to $15 per trip, with the rest of the cost being paid out of pocket. Thatll get people less than four miles, according to estimates. That proposal frustrated some New Yorkers with disabilities who said the on-demand service was a game-changer for them. It would really not only hurt me personally but hurt my professional life if Access-A-Ride suddenly doesnt work right or on-demand was suddenly gone, said Eman Rimawi, an organizer at New York Lawyers for the Public Interest advocating to improve Access-A-Ride. Because when I started at (New York Lawyers for the Public Interest) four years ago, on-demand wasnt in place yet and I was taking traditional Access-A-Ride, and I was late the majority of the time.

Those changes were put off because of the pandemic, and Arroyo emphasized the pilot program will continue until the health emergency ends. But some changes to the pilot program will likely be coming in the future.

We can never deliver it to every Access-A-Ride member out there, I mean we have over 160,000 people that are part of the Access-A-Ride community and eligible for those rides, Arroyo said, adding that making mass transit as accessible as possible instead remained a bigger priority. He suggested, as MTA officials have in the past, that New York City pay up a greater share of its paratransit costs.

The MTAs financial woes have improved in recent months, given that it has received more than $6 billion through the federal American Rescue Plan that has helped it stave off some of the worst-case scenario cuts discussed months before. But it remains uncertain how proposed capital projects will be affected even with the federal aid. State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli issued a report in April saying that the MTA will fall short of its $54 billion capital plan by about $2.9 billion because of outstanding debt. The MTA has contested that description, arguing that the billions in debt dont need to be repaid until 2023 and that its too early to tell whether loans will be needed to carry out their plans.

Tides change hourly, and if you are a person with a disability, your experience on and off a ferry could be quite different depending on the tide.  Quemuel Arroyo

Frustration with the pace of change throughout the years has led many advocates for people with disabilities to see litigation as the most effective strategy to ensure progress. The MTA is currently embroiled in three lawsuits over its inaccessible subway system.

The MTA has a history of leaving us at the altar, said Susan Dooha, executive director Center for Independence of the Disabled, New York. Her organization is a lead plaintiff in a class action lawsuit arguing the MTA is in violation of both the Americans with Disabilities Act and the New York City Human Rights Law because its stations largely remain inaccessible. Ideally, she and other advocates want to see the MTA commit to an actual timeline for full, system-wide accessibility.

The MTA should settle those lawsuits and then get down to the business of actually making the system accessible, said Joe Rappaport, who heads the Brooklyn Center for Independence of the Disabled, which is involved in the three lawsuits.

Arroyo wouldnt speak to the specifics of the lawsuits faced by the agency. I am actively involved with all stakeholders on this in those conversations, ensuring that the disability experience is understood, that that disability community is heard  but really ensuring that my family, my new family at the MTA feels like they are not over-promising, they're not under-delivering, and then showing that they do provide the best possible plan to the litigants to our plaintiffs.

This long existing tension between the MTA and riders with disabilities put Arroyo in a difficult spot. Most transit activists and advocates for New Yorkers with disabilities expressed praise for Arroyo and his intentions in the new chief accessibility officer role. But reforming a transportation system that has been slow to change may be difficult for one person alone to accomplish. Even with a senior-level position, it remains to be seen whether Arroyo will have the power and influence to actually change the MTA. Some are skeptical about what it means given the MTAs checkered history. It has seemed to me that the MTA has looked at its disability hires as people to push out the MTAs messages to the disability community, in a kind of a PR effort, Dooha said.

Ben Fried, a spokesperson for TransitCenter, said: The ultimate expression of that agencys commitment to accessibility will be expressed through the budget. And that's how we're going to know if this has made a difference.

Arroyo has laid out several priorities when it comes to accessibility initiatives. He joined other MTA officials in unveiling a new Zoning for Accessibility proposal this March, which would incentivize real estate developers to build and maintain elevators that are connected to their buildings at nearby stations outside of Manhattan. Similar collaborations with the private sector could be a good opportunity to circumvent the bureaucratic slowness of government.

We need to start trusting the private sector to deliver the changes that we want to see happen in the public realm, and to do that we need to engage them and have conversations with them, Arroyo said. Using technology is also a priority, such as providing real-time data for elevator and escalator outages and visually displayed announcements for people who are deaf or hard of hearing.

Something that most people wont say is that we share a lot of the goals that the advocates have, and that the public has, and we want those same enhancements that a lot of people shout and scream about, he said. However, we understand the resource constraints that we face.
Minority- and women-owned business enterprises, or MWBEs, enjoy increasing support in City Hall and Albany. Both Gov. Andrew Cuomo and New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio have set ambitious targets for awarding government contracts to MWBEs. Cuomo has prioritized MWBE contracting since his first year in office, while de Blasio has moved the needle recently by demanding that each city agency appoint a chief diversity officer as soon as possible.

While sexism and racism continue to pose formidable hurdles for business owners who are not white men, racial and gender disparities are increasingly under public scrutiny. And while the coronavirus pandemic has disproportionately harmed people of color, policymakers have doubled down on their efforts to diversify the pool of city and state government contractors as one way to rectify historical inequities. City & States first MWBE Power 50  compiled in partnership with journalist Leonard Robinson  recognizes the contractors, public officials, industry leaders and advocates behind rising utilization rates for New Yorks businesses owned by women and racial minorities.

1. Julissa Gutierrez

Chief Diversity Officer for the State of New York

julissa.jpg Alt Text: JG

When Julissa Gutierrez was appointed New Yorks chief diversity officer last summer, she was tasked with registering more MWBEs and reaching the states ambitious 30% MWBE contract utilization goal  which New York nearly did, with the state announcing in December that 29.51% of its contracts had been awarded to firms owned by women or minorities in the 2019-2020 fiscal year. An expert on Latino issues and civic engagement, Gutierrez previously held key roles with the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials Educational Fund.

2. Jonnel Doris & Dynishal Gross

Commissioner; Deputy Commissioner, Division of Economic and Financial Opportunity, New York City Small Business Services

Jonnel Doris - NYC Department of Small Business Services.jpg Alt Text: Jonnel Doris Title Text: Jonnel Doris Caption: Jonnel Doris Description: Jonnel Doris Image Credit: NYC Department of Small Business Services

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Jonnel Doris has been a key advocate for MWBEs long before he was appointed to lead New York City Small Business Services in May 2020, having previously led the Mayors Office of MWBEs and having served as chief diversity officer for Gov. Andrew Cuomos Office of Storm Recovery. In addition to overseeing the citys MWBE program at SBS, Doris co-chairs the Small Business Subcommittee of the Taskforce on Racial Inclusion and Equity. His colleague Dynishal Gross, the deputy commissioner for SBS Division of Economic and Financial Opportunity, manages the citys certification of MWBEs while also connecting them with resources for procuring city contracts. She previously worked for members of the New York City Council and was assistant commissioner for business programs in SBS Division of Business Services.

3. Michael Garner

Chief Diversity Officer, Metropolitan Transportation Authority

Michael Garner-Pat Cashin.jpg Alt Text: Michael Garner Title Text: Michael Garner Caption: Michael Garner Description: Michael Garner Image Credit: Pat Cashin

As the MTAs chief diversity officer, Michael Garner has overseen significant growth in MWBE contracting. The transit authority, which has the states highest discretionary program threshold at $1 million and assists with lending, appropriated $722 million to MWBE firms in the 2019-2020 fiscal year, the largest amount of any New York agency, and is on track to hit Gov. Andrew Cuomos goal of utilizing MWBE firms for 30% of the states contracting. Garner previously worked at the New York City School Construction Authority, another agency leading the way on MWBE contracting, and serves as president of One Hundred Black Men of New York, a nonprofit empowering the Black community.

4. Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn

Chair, Assembly Subcommittee on Oversight of Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises

Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn-Office of Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn.jpg Alt Text: Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn Title Text: Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn Caption: Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn Description: Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn Image Credit: Office of Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn

Assembly Member Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn is a vocal advocate for MWBEs in Albany. As chair of the Assemblys MWBE oversight subcommittee, the Brooklyn lawmaker has provided legislative support for Gov. Andrew Cuomos 30% MWBE contracting target, expanding MWBE lending options and educational resources, pressuring state agencies to collect more data on MWBE firms that seek government contracts and making resources available at the state level for MWBEs and other small businesses impacted by COVID-19. She is a member of the Mayors Advisory Council on MWBEs.

5. James Sanders Jr.

Chair, State Senate Committee on Banks

State Sen. James Sanders Jr. has long been a leading voice in Albany for MWBEs. As chair of the Committee on Banks, he has sought to expand lending options, combated predatory lending practices in marginalized communities and ensured access to lending resources during the COVID-19 pandemic. Last May, Sanders and Assembly Member Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn hosted an MWBE and small business call to discuss the pandemics impact and how to provide resources for inclusion and recovery.

6. Magalie Austin

Senior Adviser and Director, Mayors Office of Minority- and Women-Owned Business Enterprises

Maggie Austin last May was appointed to lead the New York City Mayors Office of Minority- and Women-Owned Business Enterprises. She has led the citys MWBE program during a critical period, as the coronavirus pandemic threatened many small businesses and disproportionately affected people of color. In July, as city agencies were required by executive order to appoint chief diversity officers to help reach the citys goals for MWBE contract procurement, the Mayors MWBE office was tasked with implementing the executive order and ensuring compliance.

7. Robert Cornegy

Chair, New York City Council MWBE Task Force

RobertCornegy - Raeshon Robinson.jpg Alt Text: Robert Cornegy Title Text: Robert Cornegy Caption: Robert Cornegy Description: Robert Cornegy Image Credit: Raeshon Robinson

New York City Council MemberRobert Cornegy, who represents Bedford-Stuyvesant and Crown Heights, is seeking to represent all of Brooklyn as he campaigns to be the next borough president. In addition to chairing the Housing and Buildings Committee, Cornegy also leads the New York City Council MWBE task force, which supports efforts to boost MWBE contract utilization and increase the number of minority-owned businesses throughout the city. He is also a member of the Mayors Advisory Council on MWBEs.

8. Nina Kubota & Suzanne Veira

President; Chief Diversity Officer, New York City School Construction Authority

Suzanne Veira-Scott Lindeman.jpg Alt Text: Suzanne Veira Title Text: Suzanne Veira Caption: Suzanne Veira Description: Suzanne Veira Image Credit: Scott Lindeman

After Lorraine Grillo was appointed senior adviser for recovery by New York City Mayor Bill DeBlasio in February 2021, she handed off the reins at the New York City School Construction Authority to Nina Kubota. Kubota, who served as the SCAs senior vice president for capital plan development and implementation, has big shoes to fill. But shell continue to work alongside a fellow SCA veteran in Suzanne Veira, above, the authoritys chief diversity officer, to boost the number of contracts made available to MWBE firms and involve minority communities in dialogue about school construction throughout New York City.

9. Crystal Peoples-Stokes, Inez Dickens & Latrice Walker

Assembly Members

Crystal Peoples-Stokes - Office of Assemblywoman Crystal Peoples-Stokes.jpg Image Credit: Office of Assemblywoman Crystal Peoples-Stokes

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Long before she became Assembly majority leader in 2018, Buffalo lawmaker Crystal Peoples-Stokes was an advocate of MWBEs. She served on an MWBE task force Gov. Andrew Cuomo created in 2011, helped create the Assembly Subcommittee on MWBEs and served as its chair for several years starting in 2012, a time when the state began setting more ambitious MWBE contracting targets. This year she notched a big win with the passage of her legislation legalizing recreational marijuana, which includes language ensuring revenue is reinvested in communities of color. Fellow Assembly Member Inez Dickens of Harlem has also supported MWBEs in Albany, supporting a 2019 measure extending the states MWBE program. Assembly Member Latrice Walker of Brooklyn has also championed MWBE causes, including efforts to establish a Women of Color in Tech Day last year and eliminate net worth requirements for MWBE certification.

10. Louis Coletti

President and CEO, Building Trades Employers Association

Lou Coletti.jpg Alt Text: Lou Coletti

Since 1997, Louis Coletti has served as president and CEO of Building Trades Employers Association, which represents construction contractors in New York and has been an important player in the industrys local MWBE community. Coletti has spearheaded the BTEAs MWBE Leadership Council, which meets quarterly to discuss and strategize on MWBE topics in the construction industry. Additionally, Coletti is a member of the New York City Comptrollers Advisory Council on Economic Growth through Diversity and Inclusion.

11. Wendy Garcia

Chief Diversity Officer, Office of the New York City Comptroller

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Wendy Garcia has served for seven years as chief diversity officer for New York City Comptroller Scott Stringer, a mayoral candidate whose office has kept close tabs on MWBE contracting. Garcia leads the Office of Diversity Initiatives, which publishes Making the Grade: New York City Agency Report Card on Minority- and Women-Owned Business Enterprises, an annual report assessing city agencies progress towards diversity goals. She also runs the Comptrollers Advisory Council on Economic Growth through Diversity and Inclusion, which aims to increase supplier diversity.

12. Stephanie Burns

President, Women Builders Council

Stephanie Burns is president of the Women Builders Council, a leading New York membership association focused on empowering women in the construction industry. In this capacity, her efforts of implementing programming and strategic planning have proven essential to New Yorks construction MWBE community. Her responsibilities have also included building a pipeline of students studying in STEM programs to find careers in construction and engineering. As a vice president at Turner Construction, she leads strategic project and community planning on numerous workforce development projects.

13. Michael Massiah

Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer, Port Authority of New York and New Jersey

Michael Massiah Headshot.jpg Alt Text: Michael Massiah Title Text: Michael Massiah Caption: Michael Massiah Description: Michael Massiah Image Credit: Submitted

As the chief diversity officer for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, Michael Massiah spearheads the authoritys diversity efforts, including awarding more contracts to MWBE firms. The veteran Port Authority official has had a higher target since 2018, when the MWBE contract participation goal was raised to an ambitious 30%, including 20% of contracts going to minority-owned firms and 10% to women-owned enterprises. The authority has reported that two-thirds of the companies it works with are MWBE-certified.

14. Reuben McDaniel III

President and CEO, Dormitory Authority of the State of New York

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Last summer, Reuben McDaniel was confirmed as the president and CEO of the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York, a trailblazer in awarding contracts to MWBEs. McDaniel arrived at DASNY after a career in finance, most recently at Raymond James. McDaniel, who gained governmental experience as chair of the Atlanta Board of Education while still in the private sector, now runs an authority that awarded $184 million to MWBE firms in the 2019-2020 fiscal year, or nearly a third of all its contracts.

15. Elizabeth Velez

President and Chief Contract Officer, Velez Organization

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Elizabeth Velez is one of the leading contractors in the MWBE space, building her construction firm into a heavyweight in an industry dominated by white men while continuing to advocate for smaller operations seeking to follow in her footsteps. Her Velez Organization was launched in 1972 and has built affordable housing in the Bronx and Harlem as well as a portfolio of health care, educational and other large-scale projects throughout New York. A member of the Mayors Advisory Council on MWBEs, she was named chair of the New York Building Congress last year.

16. Jacques Andre DeGraff

Chair, Minority Business Enterprise Leadership Summit

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Rev. Jacques Andre DeGraff has been involved in MWBE coalitions for a quarter century. His role as a spiritual leader of Canaan Baptist Church of Christ in Harlem has placed him on the front lines of numerous social justice efforts, including boosting coronavirus vaccination rates among Black New Yorkers. He is an active member and former vice president of 100 Black Men of New York and helped launch the Eagle Academy for Young Men of Color. DeGraff previously chaired the New York City School Construction Authority Diversity Council.

17. Sandra Wilkin

Founder and President, Bradford Construction Corporation

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As founder and former president of the Women Builders Council and a member of the Mayors Advisory Council on MWBEs, Sandra Wilkin has been recognized for mentoring other MWBE firms as means to boosting capacity and achieving city and state contracting targets. She has also led successful efforts to use legislation to boost MWBE contracting. Her women-owned Bradford Construction Corporation is also part of the Bravo Group, a partnership with fellow MWBEs Velocity Architecture & Engineering Group, Chu & Gassman Consulting Engineersand Skyline Engineering.

18. Cheryl McKissack Daniel

President and CEO, McKissack & McKissack

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Cheryl McKissak Daniel leads McKissack & McKissack, a minority-owned design and construction firm that dates back more than a century. Her company worked on Columbia Universitys expansion, the World Trade Center and the former Atlantic Yards development. A past president of the Women Builders Council, she is a member of Women in Transportation, the New York Building Congress and the Mayors Advisory Council on MWBEs. Her sister, Deryl McKissack, runs another construction company named McKissack & McKissack, with a headquarters in Washington.

19. Samuel Padilla

President, Padilla Construction Services

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Samuel Padilla leads Padilla Construction Services, an MWBE-certified construction firm that quickly established itself after its founding in 1993. Padilla was appointed to New York City Mayor Bill de Blasios MWBE advisory board when it was launched in 2015. His construction company has completed projects at the World Trade Center and the United Nations while working with major city and state agencies, including the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and the New York City School Construction Authority.

20. Nayan Parikh

President, Ashnu International

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Nayan Parikh started out as a civil engineer in India and is now the owner of a Queens-based construction firm with multiple offices around the country and abroad, and along the way he has become a leader in New Yorks MWBE community. Parikh founded Ashnu International as a general contracting and construction management company in 1998, becoming a trusted contractor to federal and state agencies along with clients in the private sector. He serves on the Mayors Advisory Council for MWBEs and is executive vice president of the National Association of Minority Contractors and president of NAMC's New York Tri-State Chapter.

21. Christopher Williams

Principal, Siebert Williams Shank & Co.

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As board chair at Shank Williams Cisneros & Co. and principal of the affiliated Siebert Williams Shank & Co., Christopher Williams leads one of the largest MWBE financial services firms on Wall Street. Williams, who previously led The Williams Capital Group and Williams Capital Management, merged with Suzanne Shanks Siebert Cisneros Shank in 2019. Other key executives at the company include former HUD Secretary Henry Cisneros and former New York City Comptroller William Thompson Jr.

22. Anyori Hernandez

Director of Emerging Managers, Office of the State Comptroller

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While much attention is paid to how many contracts New York agencies award to MWBEs, another significant source of government funds that minority and women business owners compete for is in the pension fund managed by the state comptroller. State Comptroller Thomas DiNapolis Emerging Manager Program has diversified the portfolio of the Common Retirement Fund, with Barclays alum Anyori Hernandez investing more than $20 billion in assets with MWBEs.

23. Ehab Shehata

President and CEO, Bravo Group

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Ehab Shehata heads up Bravo Group, a full service architecture and engineering firm. Spearheaded by Shehata and Sandra Wilkin, Bravo is a collaborative effort of Velocity Architecture and Engineering Group, Chu & Gassman Consulting Engineers, Bradford Construction Corporation and Skyline Engineering, all leaders in construction and engineering. Under Shehatas leadership, Bravo Group has taken on projects with educational institutions, national organization headquarters, health care facilities, transportation hubs and industrial projects, such as the ongoing restoration work at the Brooklyn Navy Yard.

24. Quenia Abreu

President and CEO, New York Womens Chamber of Commerce

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Quenia Abreu co-founded the New York Womens Chamber of Commerce in 2002, when it became the first and only womens chamber of commerce in the state. Abreu, who previously directed the Womens Business Centers at the Queens Economic Development Corporation and the Hunts Point Economic Development Corporation, has led the NYWCC since 2004, spearheading its efforts in assisting firms seeking MWBE certification. A member of the Mayors Advisory Council on MWBEs, she also launched a women and minority business development center in Upper Manhattan.

25. Thai Lee

President and CEO, SHI

Since SHI was founded in 1989, Thai Lee has been at the helm of the leading information technology firm. The New Jersey-based company, formerly Software House International, has billed itself as the countrys largest minority- and women-owned business, with certifications from the Womens Business Enterprise National Council, the New York & New Jersey Minority Supplier Development Council and New York City. Lees firm is currently the top MWBE contractor in New York City, with more than $100 million received on a $285 million contract.

26. Roly Acosta

President and CEO, JAG Companies

Roly Acosta runs JAG Companies, the New Jersey-based parent company of construction heavyweights such as Northeast Remsco Construction and Caldwell Marine International. The family-owned JAG Companies is one of the countrys biggest Hispanic-owned firms. The company has supported supplier diversity by growing and utilizing their MWBE subcontractor database. Northeast Remsco Construction is currently a top MWBE in New York City, having received $52 million to date this fiscal year.

27. Lourdes Zapata

President and CEO, SoBro

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Lourdes Zapata in 2019 took the top position at the South Bronx Overall Economic Development Corporation, or SoBro, a community development organization serving one of the poorest congressional districts in the country. Zapata, the first Latina and woman to hold the position, had previously served as the organizations director of community development. In between, Zapata served as chief diversity officer under Gov. Andrew Cuomo, a position in which she oversaw increased contracting for MWBE firms.

28. Lloyd Williams

President and CEO, The Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce

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Lloyd Williams, a lifelong Harlemite and the godson of Malcolm X, is the longtime leader of the Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce. The organization, which dates back to 1896, aims to improve the lives of Harlem residents, and during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic it delivered hundreds of meals and personal protective equipment each day. Williams, who co-founded Harlem Week and the Harlem Jazz & Music Festival and serves on the board of NYC & Company, has also been an outspoken proponent of MWBEs.

29. Barbara Armand Kushner

President and CEO, Armand Corporation

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Barbara Armand is the owner and chief executive of Armand Corporation, a program and construction management firm she founded in 1991 that now has offices in New York City, New Jersey and Philadelphia. She is a consultant on MWBE policy and her clients have included large organizations in the private and public sectors, such as the New York City Economic Development Corporation and the New York City School Construction Authority. Shes also the president emeritus of the New York chapter of Professional Women in Construction.

30. Deborah Bradley

President, Deborah Bradley Construction & Management Services

Deborah Bradley launched her construction management firm in 1994 after graduating from Columbia University, her first client. A past president of the Women Builders Council, she formed a partnership with the United Nations to encourage women to enter the construction industry, helped launch student chapters and lobbied New York officials to adopt a 30% MWBE utilization goal. The former accountant is a member of the New York Building Congress and has served since 2019 on the Mayors Advisory Council on MWBEs.

31. Bill Howell

President, Howell Industries

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Bill Howells company started out in the petroleum business before transitioning to construction work. Howell Industries today mentors small MWBE contractors and contracts with large governmental bodies including the New York City School Construction Authority, Metropolitan Transportation Authority and the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York. It also assists Service Disabled Veteran Owned Businesses through the MTA Small Business Development Program. In 2019, Howell was appointed to the Mayors MWBE Advisory Board.

32. Bonnie Wong

Founder and President, Asian Women in Business

Bonnie Wong is the founder and leader of Asian Women in Business, a national membership organization to support Asian women-owned businesses. The nonprofit offers mentorship and networking for Asian women in corporate and legal sectors. AWIB has grown to become a widely recognized organization championing MWBE efforts in New York and nationally. Wong serves on MWBE and diversity boards for both New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio and City Comptroller Scott Stringer.

33. Tunisha Walker-Miller

Principal, Capalino

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Tunisha Walker-Miller, a principal at Capalino, manages the leading lobbying firms MWBE Consulting Group, which has helped procure contracts for firms on both state and local levels across a variety of sectors since 2015. She also founded the Association of Black Lobbyists and Consultants in 2019. She has previously served as executive director of the state Senate Conference of Black Senators.

34. Charles Williams III

Partner, Peckar & Abramson

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As a partner at Peckar & Abramson, Charles Williams III practices construction and real estate law, with a special expertise in MWBE regulations and certification. Williams previously served as vice president and general counsel of the New York City School Construction Authority, a leading agency in awarding MWBE contracts, and he also has worked with the Office of the Manhattan Borough President, the New York Department of State and the NAACP. Hes also general counsel for the Building Trades Employers Associations MWBE Leadership Council.

35. Kenneth Thomas & Jason Cintron

Co-Managing Directors, Minority & Women Contractors & Developers Association

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Kenneth Thomas and Jason Cintron launched the nonprofit Minority & Women Contractors & Developers Association in 2019, with the goal of empowering MWBE firms and diversifying the real estate and construction industries. MWCDA has been focused on growing its membership and promoting workforce development training. Cintron previously held key staff positions with the New York City Council, while Thomas worked in the real estate industry.

36. Brian Matthews

Senior Consultant, Brown & Weinraub

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After three decades working in state government, Brian Matthews joined top Albany lobbying firm Brown & Weinraub in January and has been helping to build out its MWBE practice. Matthews brings plenty of relevant experience, including as chief financial officer for the state Office of General Services and director of the Bureau of Financial Administration in the Office of the State Comptroller. Matthews recently called for revisions to evaluation standards for government contractors to prioritize the value of community progress as much as cost and experience.

37. Rick Miranda

President and CEO, Brooklyn Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

As the longtime leader of the Brooklyn Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Rick Miranda has driven the membership organizations efforts to support Hispanic-owned businesses across the borough. A member of the Mayors Advisory Council on MWBEs and other diversity boards and councils  and as a small business owner himself  Miranda has helped boost the number of certified MWBEs through a partnership with New York City Small Business Services.

38. Kristin Malek

Director of Business Diversity, CDW

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Since December, Kristin Malek has overseen business diversity initiatives for CDW, an Illinois-based information technology services provider that does significant business in New York. Malek has managed some $2 billion yearly in investments through the companys supplier diversity program, partnering with hundreds of minority- and women-owned firms. Since Malek joined the company in 2017, it has twice been a finalist for the National Minority Supplier Development Council Corporation of the Year.

39. Justin Nelson & Jonathan Lovitz

Co-Founder and President; Special Adviser, National LGBT Chamber of Commerce

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The National LGBT Chamber of Commerce recently reached an agreement with the New York City Department of Small Business Services to certify firms owned by LGBTQ New Yorkers. Supporters say the move connects these firms with city resources, but without undermining official MWBE government contracting efforts. The agreement, which was reached in lieu of passing proposed legislation, is a victory for NGLCCs Justin Nelson, who is typically more active on the national level, and Jonathan Lovitz, who was previously NGLCCs New York director and lobbied for the recent local change.

40. Paul Williams Jr.

Founder, Brown Hatchett & Williams

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Paul Williams is a founding partner at Brown Hatchett & Williams, a law firm well-versed in corporate governance, finance and real estate matters. Williams made history in 2008 as the first African American to lead the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York and established DASNY as an innovator in developing new strategies to award contracts to MWBEs. He also chaired then-Gov. David Patersons MWBE task force, and continued to lead DASNY under Gov. Andrew Cuomo until 2015. Williams now advises companies on diversity and inclusion.

41. Jacqueline S.L. Williams

Founding Partner and Co-Owner, State & Broadway

Jacqueline S.L. Williams is a fierce advocate for MWBEs in New York. The owner of the lobbying firm State & Broadway served on Gov. Andrew Cuomos MWBE task force in 2011 in her capacity as MWBE Coalition coordinator, and she continues to work with firms owned by women and minorities and on broader economic development and labor issues as a top lobbyist in Albany.

42. John Flateau

Professor, Medgar Evers College

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John Flateau is the co-founder of Medgar Evers Colleges DuBois Bunche Center for Public Policy and US Census Information Center. Previously, he served as chief diversity officer at Empire State Development under former Gov. Mario Cuomo, executive director of the New York State Black and Puerto Rican Legislative Caucus and chief of staff to former New York City Mayor David Dinkins. A founding father of New York MWBEs, he played a key role in conducting a disparity study that paved the way for New York Citys MWBE program.

42. Hazel Dukes

President, NAACP New York State Conference

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As a longtime leader with the venerable civil rights organization the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, Hazel Dukes has spent decades seeking to create social and economic opportunities for New Yorkers of color. Dukes consulting firm Hazel N. Dukes and Associates focuses on public policy, health and diversity, and she was appointed to serve on Gov. Andrew Cuomos COVID-19 Vaccine Equity Task Force. Shes also a member of New York City Comptroller Scott Stringers Advisory Council on Economic Growth through Diversity and Inclusion.

43. Valerie White

Executive Director, LISC NYC

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Valerie White took the reins of the New York City office of the Local Initiatives Support Corporation, or LISC NYC, a year ago. White, who previously led Empire State Developments Division of Minority and Womens Business Development, now is tasked with continuing initiatives that have pumped $3.1 billion into affordable housing, health care, jobs and business development programs. LISC, which was founded in New York by the Ford Foundation and corporate partners in New York in 1979, now has a presence in 45 states.

44. Liz Neumark

Founder and CEO, Great Performances

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Liz Neumark has led Great Performances for four decades, building it out from a part-time staffing agency for women in the arts into a top-tier catering and events company. In 2019, Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced that Neumarks women-owned firm was relocating from Manhattan to the South Bronx, while creating nearly 200 new jobs and investing $4.4 million into a 40,000-square-foot space.

45. Jean Kristensen

President and CEO, Jean Kristensen Associates

After a career in private security, Jean Kristensen switched gears to run her own consulting firm, Jean Kristensen Associates. The firm, which is a minority- and women-owned business, assists other small business owners in getting certified with city and state MWBE programs and pursuing government contracts. Government agencies have also consulted Kristensen to identify firms for their supplier diversity programs.

46. Jacqui Williams

Principal, 99 Solutions

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Jacqui Williams is one of New York Citys top lobbyists, specializing in everything from real estate to recreational marijuana to retail and grocery stores, including helping the popular Wegmans Food Markets bring a supermarket to Brooklyn. As the longtime owner of the consulting firm 99 Solutions, she has long sought to assist business owners who are people of color.

47. Larry Scott Blackmon

Founder and CEO, The Blackmon Organization

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When Larry Scott Blackmon founded his consulting firm The Blackmon Organization, it was the latest stage in a career straddling the public and private sectors. He previously served as vice president of public affairs at FreshDirect, forging relationships with MWBEs in the companys supplier network and managing government and community relationships. He also worked for the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation and New York City Small Business Services and is an active member of One Hundred Black Men of New York.

Blackmon is a member of City & States advisory board, but did not have direct input on this list.

48. Mohammad Razvi

Co-Founder and Executive Director, Council of Peoples Organization

An immigrant from Pakistan and a former businessman, Mohammad Razvi founded the Council of Pakistan Organization five months after the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Now the Council of Peoples Organization, the nonprofit assists low-income immigrant families, primarily of South Asian and Muslim descent, as they adapt to life in New York City. An advocate for minority and immigrant owned businesses, Razvi also serves on the Mayors Advisory Council on MWBEs.

49. Stacie NC Grant

Chief Brilliance Officer, C&G Enterprises Unlimited

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An author, motivational speaker and MWBE advocate, Stacie NC Grant leads C&G Enterprises Unlimited, which provides meeting facilitation, professional development and event services for various community, nonprofit and educational organizations. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the company pivoted to providing decontamination services for small businesses and meeting spaces. Previously, Grant was selected as the facilitator for the JFK International Airport Redevelopment Community Advisory Council, a part of the $13 billion redevelopment project.

50. Everett Perry

President and Founder, Urban EcoSpaces

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In 2009, Everett Perry launched Urban Ecospaces, a development and general contracting firm and a certified MWBE. Perrys firm has worked on major projects with the New York City Department of Design and Construction, the New York City School Construction Authority and the Build It Back program after Superstorm Sandy. Perry is also the fundraising chair for the NYC MWBE Alliance, a diverse coalition of MWBEs that works with city, state and federal agencies and contractors to secure government contracts.

Correction: Due to an editing error, an earlier version of the post incorrectly combined Jacqui Williams of 99 Solutions and Jacqueline S.L. Williams of State & Broadway.
#FollowLocalJournalists. Thats the hashtag on a campaign that Twitter is launching today to encourage its users to do just that. According to Sara Fischer, of Axios, in addition to social-media activity, the campaign is running full-page ads in local papers owned by Gannett (including the Detroit Free Press and Columbus Dispatch) and McClatchy (including the Miami Herald and Kansas City Star); the ads will steer readers to Twitter Lists of local reporters that they can follow. Local journalists are so incredibly important to the conversation on Twitter, Niketa Patel, head of print and digital news partnerships at the platform, told Fischer. Were viewing this as a way of ensuring that Twitter is giving local journalists a national spotlight.

The campaign enters into a landscape of debates, developments, and initiatives aimed, in myriad ways and with differing intent, at boosting local newsa landscape that has long been crowded, and where the financial fallout from the coronavirus pandemic has raised the stakes. Social platformsTwitter, but mainly Facebook and Googlehave been at the center of the conversation, thanks to their philanthropic donations to newsrooms, or, in the case of the latter two companies, government efforts, in Australia and elsewhere, to force them to pay news outlets when featuring their content. Separately, Facebook said last week that it will spend five-million dollars to lure independent US-based journalists to cover local news on a publishing platform that the company is launching, with priority given to writers serving Black, Indigenous, Latinx, Asian or other audiences of color in news deserts. Facebooks new platform will launch as a competitor to Substack, which itself recently pledged a million dollars to help up to thirty local journalists, based anywhere in the world, launch local outlets on the platformbuilding on what the company sees as the success of existing Substack-based local publications in the US, Canada, and the UK. This is not a grants program, nor is it inspired by philanthropic intent, Substack said. Our goal is to foster an effective business model for independent local news that provides ample room for growth. Other companies, too, see a future in local newsletters.

New from CJR: The Existential Issue

These various moves have sparked intense discussions among journalists online (and not just because denizens of media Twitter are contractually obligated to row for days about Substacks every utterance). Skeptics of Substacks local initiative pointed out, among other things, that its announcement did not offer specific commitments on equity, that none of the judges who will vet applications works for a local outlet, and that only writers based in the US will qualify for legal support from the company; Recodes Peter Kafka, meanwhile, reported that some of the journalists Substack points to as encouraging examples of local journalism say theyre not paying all their bills with Substack revenue. Facebooks announcement, too, met with some criticismEmily Bell, of Columbias Tow Center for Digital Journalism, called the idea an incentivized fragmentation of the structure of local news, and Facebook and Googles broader efforts to fund journalism a Faustian pactas did Twitters #FollowLocalJournalists campaign; the journalist Garrett M. Graff said its hard to think of something less meaningful. Much criticism of such efforts comes back, ultimately, to the sheer scale of the local-news problem.

If platforms are dominant in the conversation about reviving local news, the role that government could playbeyond regulatory skirmishes with platformsis often a relative sidenote. Advocates for a public solution to the crisis have worked to expand the debate, and have made a renewed push in recent weeks. Last week, Bell asked, in a piece for CJR, whether we are creating an environment in which regulators are placated by a flashy increase in funding by Facebook and Google instead of addressing the need for actual regulatory reform to support journalism? Elsewhere, Victor Pickard, a professor of media policy and political economy at the University of Pennsylvania, argued, in an op-ed for The Hill, that policymakers should consider subsidizing independent, non-commercial local journalismbe it through a federal jobs program similar to the New Deal-era Federal Writers Project (an idea that Democratic Rep. Ted Lieus office told me last year that they want to revive in some form), a voucher program for subscribers, or an expansion of existing public-media infrastructure including the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. Congress, Pickard says, should also incentivize the transfer of local outlets from hedge funds to local nonprofit ownership. (Another big local-news story of the moment, the uncertain future of Tribune Publishing, shows how hard this can be when left to market actors.)

Pickard situated his arguments within the context of President Bidens recent infrastructure plan, which wont directly fund local news as things stand, but does offer an opportunity to drive the argument into mainstream policy discourse; in a discussion last week on Galley, CJRs discussion platform, Pickard told my colleague Mathew Ingram that hes heartened, as a starting point, by Bidens expansive notion of what counts as infrastructure. Writing in the New Republic, Osita Nwanevu made a similar case, and argued that Democrats should seize the opportunity to fund news now. Dedicating $30 to $40 billion over the next 10 years, or just 1 percent of the estimated $3 to $4 trillion total cost of the bills, to a federal fund offering grants for state and local outlets and reporting projects in all mediums, digital and traditional, would amount to a historic and legacy-defining investment in Americas civic infrastructure, he wrote. While politicians from both parties take a perennial interest in repairing potholes, it may be quite some time before we see another opportunity this large to bolster the health of our press.

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The idea that corporate behemoths, rather than the state, should shoulder the burden here gets privileged in American media-industry debates for a number of reasons: chief among them the culpability of Facebook and Google in hoovering up ad revenue and the attendant, narrow moral conception of rectifying harm, and broader cultural aversions to government intervention in the economy and meddling in the free pressa legitimate concern, as Pickard told Ingram, that too often becomes a conversation-stopper. But the debate about private and public support neednt be a rigid either/orthere is a lot of slack to be picked up to make local news healthy again. And cultural bedrocks can soften. Pickard and Nwanevu are smart to reference the broader present discussion on the definition of infrastructure; in fact, Bidens early approach to the presidency, crystallized in his address to Congress last week, has sparked an even wider dialogue about the size and role of government, as a whole, framed explicitly around the survival of democracy. So far, some of the coverage of Bidens push has been unimaginative. But the contours of this debate have noticeably started to widen. Journalists should make room within those contours for the plight of their own industry. The how of fixing local newsas with the private initiatives outlined aboveis up for debate. For that debate to begin, we need to reimagine the who. We have an opening, for once, for a genuine conversation-starter.

The democratic value of local news has always been clearand not just in covering communities and issues that otherwise wouldnt get covered. Yesterday, Margaret Sullivan, of the Washington Post, illustrated the value that local outlets can contribute, too, to urgent national storieshighlighting the work of WITF, a public-radio station in Pennsylvania that, unlike many more prominent and better-funded national outlets, has continued to hold lawmakers accountable for their 2020 election denialism by referencing it in every story that features them. Twitter, for one, is right to observe that local reporters merit a national spotlight. They need an awful lot more than new followers, though. #FundLocalJournalists.

Below, more on local news:

A national trend: A survey conducted by the Radio and Television Digital News Association found that one in five directors at local TV news stations reported attacks on their staff last year, with about half occurring during coverage of civil unrest, protests, marches/rallies, or riots. The survey found that most of the attacks were made by protesters, but some involved the police; that network affiliation made no difference; and that while attacks happened in markets of all sizes, the bigger the market, the more likely that there have been attacks. Poynters Al Tompkins has a roundup.

A survey conducted by the Radio and Television Digital News Association found that one in five directors at local TV news stations reported attacks on their staff last year, with about half occurring during coverage of civil unrest, protests, marches/rallies, or riots. The survey found that most of the attacks were made by protesters, but some involved the police; that network affiliation made no difference; and that while attacks happened in markets of all sizes, the bigger the market, the more likely that there have been attacks. Poynters Al Tompkins has a roundup. New York, I: Ben Smith, media columnist at the Times, explores how reporters in New York City are grappling with the mayoral candidacy of Andrew Yang, the current frontrunner. Yang is not in the same ideological universe as Donald Trump, Jere Hester, editor in chief of The City, told Smithand yet, given the national lessons of 2016, theres a residual wariness among the media about being careful not to uncritically help elevate someone whos more celebrity than proven public servant.

Ben Smith, media columnist at the Times, explores how reporters in New York City are grappling with the mayoral candidacy of Andrew Yang, the current frontrunner. Yang is not in the same ideological universe as Donald Trump, Jere Hester, editor in chief of The City, told Smithand yet, given the national lessons of 2016, theres a residual wariness among the media about being careful not to uncritically help elevate someone whos more celebrity than proven public servant. New York, II: On Friday, WNYC laid off fourteen staffers including John Del Signore and Christopher Robbins, respectively the editor in chief and city editor of Gothamist, a local publication that WNYC helped revive after the site was shuttered by its previous owner, the billionaire businessman Joe Ricketts. Richard Yeh, supervising senior producer of WNYC News, and Allie Pinel, an assistant production manager, also lost their jobs. According to Keith J. Kelly, of the New York Post, WNYC also froze pay rises for higher earners, cut some retirement contributions, and capped vacation carryover days.

On Friday, WNYC laid off fourteen staffers including John Del Signore and Christopher Robbins, respectively the editor in chief and city editor of Gothamist, a local publication that WNYC helped revive after the site was shuttered by its previous owner, the billionaire businessman Joe Ricketts. Richard Yeh, supervising senior producer of WNYC News, and Allie Pinel, an assistant production manager, also lost their jobs. According to Keith J. Kelly, of the New York Post, WNYC also froze pay rises for higher earners, cut some retirement contributions, and capped vacation carryover days. Florida: Last week, lawmakers in Florida passed a compromise measure reforming state laws around public noticesor paid ads that local governments are required to pay newspapers to run, making them an important revenue source. An original bill, which was opposed by the Florida Press Association, would effectively have scrapped the requirement; the new version, which the association supports, would preserve the requirement, while allowing smaller newspapers and online publications to enter the legal-notice market. Kirby Wilson has more for the Tampa Bay Times.

Last week, lawmakers in Florida passed a compromise measure reforming state laws around public noticesor paid ads that local governments are required to pay newspapers to run, making them an important revenue source. An original bill, which was opposed by the Florida Press Association, would effectively have scrapped the requirement; the new version, which the association supports, would preserve the requirement, while allowing smaller newspapers and online publications to enter the legal-notice market. Kirby Wilson has more for the Tampa Bay Times. Wyoming: Charlie von Maur-Newcomb, an eleven-year-old in the town of Kelly, Wyoming, has launched a newspaper called Kelly Out Loud! Timothy J. Woods reports, for the nearby Jackson Hole News & Guide, that the paper is produced entirely by Charlie, with only light editing offered by his parents, one of whom is a county commissioner. We get to tell people important information about the world, von Maur-Newcomb said. I thought that was really cool, and I wanted to do that.



A programming note: Today CJR debuts a new issue of the magazine, which asks the question What is journalism? In an entirely digital project, composed of five chapters, were confronting the assumptions we make about our workso much so that weve referred to this as the Existential Issue. We encourage you to check out the introduction by Kyle Pope, the editor and publisher of CJR, and start with Chapter 1: Who. And as a bonus, well be hosting online discussions on Galley over the course of this week. Today at noon, come by for a panel on how social media has redefined journalistic authority, featuring Mathew Ingram, Alexandria Neason, and other CJR contributors.



Other notable stories:

New from CJR: Philip DeFranco and the power of news-influencers

Has America ever needed a media watchdog more than now? Help us by joining CJR today

Jon Allsop is a freelance journalist. He writes CJRs newsletter The Media Today. Find him on Twitter @Jon_Allsop.
A federal appellate court upheld the dismissal of a whistleblower lawsuit filed by an insurance executive who was fired after allegedly submitting false expense reports and encouraging employees under him to do the same.

A panel of the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals rejected Jonathan Scarboroughs arguments that Federated Mutual Insurance Co. made a scapegoat out of him so that the company could protect another manager who had committed even worse misdeeds.

The decision affirmed a ruling made by the U.S. District Court in Minnesota granting Federateds motion for summary judgment.

Federated fired Scarborough in August 2014, two years after he had sold his house in Kansas and moved family to Nashville, Tenn. to accept a promotion from district to regional marketing manager. He had worked for the carrier almost 17 years.

The series of events that led to his firing started when a manager noticed that Frederick Johnston, one the six district managers assigned to Scarborough, had placed on his expense report a $702.87 charge to his company credit card for customized framing of personal photographs, according to the opinion. Johnston said the charge was for laminating company documents and buying printing ink.

While discussing the suspect expense item, Scarborough told his supervisor, Michael Pennington, that Johnston likes fancy things and had also placed on his expense report fees to rent meeting rooms at the Husch Blackwell law firm. Pennington expressed surprise because the law firm allowed Federated to use its meeting rooms for free, the opinion says.

Federated investigated and learned that Johnston has submitted invoices totaling about $5,000 for meetings at Husch Blackwell and that Scarborough had approved those expenses.

Johnston admitted to lying about the purpose of the framing purchase. He told Pennington that Scarborough know that the law firm didnt charge for use of its meeting rooms. He knowingly approved the false expense reports and encouraged other district managers to report meeting room expenses as well.

Another employee confirmed Johnstons story, the opinion says. Federated gave Johnston the option of resigning or accepting a demotion. Scarborough insisted that he did not know that Johnston had submitted fraudulent invoices.

Federated issued a warning letter to Scarborough for continuing to deny knowledge of Johnstons conduct. The company said it would not tolerate any future wrongdoing.

But Scarborough irked his supervisors when he called employees who worked under Johnston to tell them that what had happened with their boss. To make things worse, the company learned that Scarborough charged personal expenses to his company credit card and had only recently offered to reimburse the company, the opinion says.

Penningtons supervisor, Michael Kerr, told Scarborough that he could accept a demotion to district manager or resign. Scarbourgh decided to stay on, but then called a colleague to tell him that Federated was trying to force him out, according to the opinion.

When Kerr learned about that conversation, he terminated Scarborough for his lack of professionalism.

Scarborough filed a wrongful termination suit in Johnson County, Kansas. Federated had the case removed to federal court and then reassigned to Minnesota because Scarborough had signed an employment agreement requiring all disputes to be resolved according to Minnesota law.

Scarborough filed an amended complaint charging that Federated had violated his rights under the Minnesota Whistleblower Act.

His lawsuit tells a very different tale than Federated. Scarborough alleged that Pennington was aware that Johnston was submitting fraudulent expenses when the two worked together previously and ignored it. He submitted as evidence two meeting room invoices that presumably Pennington had approved.

Scarborough said he was fired only after pushing for Johnstons termination, and after he expressed his opinion that both Federated and Johnston may have violated tax laws. The stated reasons for terminating him, the suit charges, were a pretext.

The district court granted summary judgment to Federated, but the 8th Circuit overturned that decision and sent the case back to the trial court because the judge did not use the proper analysis. The district court granted summary judgment again, and this time the 8th Circuit upheld that ruling.

The opinion explained that Scarborough had the burden of proving that a retaliatory animus motivated the decision to fire him. The opinion notes that two employees told managers that Scarborough had knowingly approved falsified expense reports.

Scarborough has failed to provide any direct evidence that he was retaliated against for flagging Johnstons expense reporting activities, the opinion says.

Scarborough is now president of Iron Mountain Insurance in Birmingham, Ala. He did not respond Friday to an email and telephone call requesting comment.
Hanoi requires returnees to make health declaration after public holiday

People returning to Hanoi are subject to compulsory medical declaration after the four-day public holidays lasting from April 30 to May 3, according to a document on COVID-19 prevention and control work issued on May 2 by the Chairman of the municipal Peoples Committee.



A large number of people in Hanoi travelled to other localities during the holidays, posing high risks of spreading the viral disease in the community.

a

People returning to Hanoi are subject to compulsory medical declaration after the four-day public holidays lasting from April 30 to May 3. (Photo: VNA)





Anyone who shows signs of coughing, fever, shortness of breath, or other suspected symptoms of COVID-19 should go to the nearest medical facilities for timely instruction.



Meanwhile, heads of organisations and agencies in the city must be responsible for medical declaration of their staff, and local authorities for that of the residents.



The municipal police are assigned to direct their lower units to make a list of returnees after holidays, popularise COVID-19 prevention measures, and give strict punishment to any violations.



COVID-19 has become complicated in recent days as more people have tested positive for the SARS-CoV-2 after coming into close contact with a patient in the northern province of Ha Nam.

The 28-year-old man tested positive for the virus after he finished 14 days of mandatory quarantine. He had returned Vietnam from Japan via Da Nang International Airport on April 7. He was quarantined for 14 days in Da Nang and tested negative for coronavirus three times before completing the quarantine period.
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Pressure Sensor Market Growth & Trends

The global pressure sensor market size is expected to reach USD 24.48 billion by 2028, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. It is expected to register a CAGR of 4.6% from 2021 to 2028. The growth can be attributed to the growing application of pressure sensors in automotive, aviation, and consumer electronic appliances. The advancements in Microelectromechanical Systems (MEMS) technology and its rapid adoption in connected devices are expected to create opportunities for market growth over the forecast period.

Furthermore, increasing consumer preference for compact electronic appliances is creating the need for MEMS pressure sensors. MEMS is the technology that miniaturizes electro-mechanical and mechanical elements that are made using microfabrication techniques. Various companies are focused on providing MEMS pressure sensors for selective industries. For instance, Robert Bosch is providing MEMS pressure sensors for the consumer and automotive industries while Honeywell and NXP are focusing on automotive, medical, industrial, and aviation verticals.

Government bodies across the globe are making it mandatory to implement a tire pressure monitoring system, which is driving the demand for pressure sensors. For instance, in September 2020, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways in India announced that the tire pressure monitoring system would become mandatory in India in the coming days. India's government is moving on the path of transforming the automotive industry to increase its contribution to GDP.

The COVID-19 pandemic is anticipated to impact market growth favorably in the near future. Heart failure is a major health problem and the leading cause of hospitalization in western countries. CardioMEMS is one of the therapeutic monitoring systems gaining traction in recent days. It is an advanced system that uses an implantable pulmonary artery pressure sensor. It was widely used for remote care for heart failure during the COVID-19 situation.

Request a free sample copy or view report summary: Pressure Sensor Market Report

Pressure Sensor Market Report Highlights

In terms of product, the absolute pressure sensor segment is expected to retain its dominance over the forecast period. The growing demand for absolute pressure sensors in applications that demand the provision of low-pressure range for the measurement of the vacuum level in industries is expected to drive the segment growth

In terms of type, the wired segment dominated the market in 2020 and is expected to witness growth over the forecast period. The growing demand for wired pressure sensors in the industrial and automotive sectors is driving the segment growth

In terms of technology, the piezoresistive segment dominated the market in 2020. The development of Microelectromechanical Systems (MEMS) is anticipated to drive the piezoresistive pressure sensor segment growth over the forecast period

In terms of application, the automotive segment dominated the market in 2020. Rapid growth in the usage of pressure sensors in the automotive industry, in equipment such as tire pressure measurement systems, exhaust gas recirculation systems, engine health management systems, and Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS), is expected to fuel the automotive segment growth

The increasing adoption of pressure sensors in emerging economies such as China and India is expected to create growth opportunities for the market players in the Asia Pacific region over the forecast period

Access Press Release@ https://www.grandviewresearch.com/press-release/global-pressure-sensors-market

Pressure Sensor Market Segmentation

Grand View Research has segmented the global pressure sensor market on the basis of product, type, technology, application, and region:

Pressure Sensor Product Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2016 - 2028)

Absolute Pressure Sensors

Differential Pressure Sensors

Gauge Pressure Sensors

Pressure Sensor Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2016 - 2028)

Wired

Wireless

Pressure Sensor Technology Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2016 - 2028)

Piezoresistive

Electromagnetic

Capacitive

Resonant Solid-State

Optical

Others

Pressure Sensor Application Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2016 - 2028)

Automotive

Oil & Gas

Consumer Electronics

Medical

Industrial

Others

Pressure Sensor Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2016 - 2028)

North America US. Canada Mexico

Europe UK. Germany France Russia Nordic Region

Asia Pacific China Japan India Australia

Latin America Brazil Argentina

Middle East & Africa UAE Saudi Arabia



List of Key Players in the Pressure Sensor Market

AlphaSense

City Technology Ltd.

Dynament Ltd.

Figaro Engineering Inc.

Membrapor AG.

Nemoto & Co., Ltd.

Robert Bosch LLC.

ABB Ltd.

Siemens AG.

GfG Europe Ltd

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.
OKLAHOMA CITY (AP)  A former Oklahoma doctor has been convicted of second-degree murder in the opioid overdose death of a patient, according to state Attorney General Mike Hunter.

Former Midwest City Dr. Regan Nichols was convicted Friday on one of five counts of second-degree murder for the deaths of five patients between 2010 and 2013.

Nichols was acquitted on the remaining four counts.

The facts and the evidence in this case were clear  through her reckless overprescribing, Regan Nichols put her patients in danger, which led to tragic deaths, Hunter said.

Nichols prescribed more than 1,800 opioid pills to the five people who died during the same months as their deaths, according to investigators.

Defense attorney Tommy Adler told The Oklahoman that the guilty verdict will be appealed.

Were very surprised by the one conviction, Adler said. We believe (the jurors) worked hard.

Hunter successfully sued pharmaceutical company Johnson & Johnson for a misleading marketing campaign that overstated how effective the drugs were for treating chronic pain and understated the risk of addiction.

The case has been appealed to the state Supreme Court.

Hunter also reached pretrial settlements with other drugmakers and has filed a lawsuit against three opioid distributors.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
COCODRIE, La. (AP)  The volunteers gather around a map, suntanned fingers tracing over the bayous, lakes and islands where theyll search. They talk about where theyve already been and where theyll go today. They make sure everyone has food and water, and knows the radio channel to use. They gather in prayer and then set off for another day searching for those still missing from the capsized Seacor Power.

Lord, we got some families that are hurting, says one of the men as nearly 30 people bow their heads in prayer. Please give us the ability to find something today.

On April 19, after a search covering more than 9,200 square miles (23,000 square kilometers) and using planes, helicopters and cutters, the Coast Guard officially ended the search for survivors of the lift boat that flipped over in hurricane-force winds about eight miles (13 kilometers) off the Louisiana coast on April 13. In a statement April 27, the ships owner, Houston, Texas-based Seacor Marine, said it was focusing on salvage operations and recovering the ship.

But from a dock in southern Louisiana, volunteers arent giving up. Theyve been setting out in planes, boats and hip-high waders in hopes of finding anyone still alive from the lift boat, a platform ship with retractable legs that services offshore oil and gas facilities.

Nineteen people were aboard the Seacor Power when it failed to weather the storm. Six men were rescued. Six bodies have been recovered from the sea or from divers inside the vessel; seven are still missing.

Scott Daspit still holds onto hope that his son Dylan is alive. Speaking to the people heading out to search, he said any survivors would likely be covered in mud to ward off mosquitos. He urged them to concentrate on the few trees that would provide the only shade in the hot, flat landscape.

In a quieter moment, Daspit said hed taken hope from a volunteer who told a story of how hed survived for days floating out at sea.

It gave me a renewed spirit, Daspit said. But I have to assume that  if we do find anybody alive, theyre going to be very hurt because nobodys standing up and waving us down.

Later, as he began to choke up, he said: If we can find one soul itll be worth it.

Like other family members, Daspit has been frustrated from the start with the rescue efforts. In the immediate days after the ship capsized, a ship owner took Daspit, whos worked in the oil industry for decades, near the Seacor Power so he could see for himself what was going on.

The whole country benefits from oil and gas extracted in the Gulf and the tax revenue it generates, Daspit said, but few appreciate how risky the work can be.

From the roustabout, to the company man, to the engineer on these jobs, everybody puts their lives in danger, he said.

It could take as long as two years for a National Transportation Safety Board investigation to determine what happened.

The Coast Guard said Friday that suspending a search is often the most difficult decision the organization makes but such operations cannot go on indefinitely because they impact its ability to carry out other jobs. Petty Officer Jonathan Lally said when the Guard suspended the search on April 19, it was already 48 hours longer than survivability models indicated.

Many factors are considered in the decision to suspend a search, including whether or not we believe those we are searching for could survive given certain physical and environmental factors, said Lally. We understand the loss these families feel and our most sincere condolences go out to them.

The United Cajun Navy, a non-profit that helps out during disasters, has been helping organize the volunteer search effort. Todd Terrell, who heads the organization, said they have found life vests, life rings and items from the interior of the boat such as doors or cabinets and clothes. He knows at some point they will have exhausted all their efforts but, he said, theyre not there yet.

Many of the volunteers have come from the surrounding area, others from farther afield. Mike Asher, a longtime fisherman, drove out from Lake Charles in western Louisiana after a friend who knew someone on the capsized boat asked if he could help. As Asher guided a small watercraft, he recalled how people had come to help his hometown after Hurricane Laura ripped through the city last August.

People came from all over and helped us. I definitely felt like I should give something back to people, he said. Its searching for a needle in a haystack. But if you dont look, you dont find.

Others have been searching from seaplanes overhead. A team with dogs trained to search for cadavers also arrived. Groups on ATVs have combed beaches as far away as the Texas border.

On Thursday, an air boat, which can travel over marsh or land to access harder to reach areas, combed through the grasses while others rode flat-bottom boats looking for clues. Well-wishers have brought in food and drink, assembled underneath a raised building at the dock. Volunteer Ronnie Adams, who appeared on the History Channels Swamp People, has posted online updates viewed by thousands of people.

Mark Theriot, a 63-year-old shrimper, said hes been coming out every day simply because Scott Daspit and the other families need help.

I really dont have much confidence that were going to find anybody, but the man wants to go and Im going to go, Theriot said. Im coming for the family, to give them support. They got help. Theyre not by themselves.

About the photo: Volunteers gather around a map of the Louisiana coast on Thursday, April 30, 2021, in Cocodrie, La., as they search for survivors of the Seacor Power, a lift boat that capsized off the coast on April 13. (AP Photo/Rebecca Santana)

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
COLUMBUS, OhioFully vaccinated staff at Ohio nursing homes and assisted-living facilities will no longer be required to be tested weekly for the coronavirus, Gov. Mike DeWine announced Monday.

The governors announcement, made during a televised COVID-19 briefing, comes as the number of coronavirus cases at Ohios 960 nursing homes has dropped sharply since the beginning of the year, from 3,785 cases on Jan. 6 to 214 on April 21.

Since March, fully vaccinated nursing-home employees have had to take a coronavirus test at least once per week, per a state health order. Unvaccinated employees have had  and still will have to  be tested at least twice every week.

Lifting testing requirements for fully vaccinated nursing-home staff is consistent with federal regulations, DeWine said. People are deemed fully vaccinated starting two weeks after receiving a one-dose Johnson and Johnson shot or their second dose of a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine.

The governor said he hoped this policy change will give encouragement to nursing-home workers to get a vaccine. We do know that when staff is not vaccinated, that does increase, obviously, the odds of ...the virus getting into the nursing home, DeWine said.

At the start of the coronavirus crisis last spring, the majority of deaths in Ohio were in nursing homes, leading the state to ramp up testing of residents and staff and a ban on visits from non-residents, among other steps. DeWine has gradually eased up on state coronavirus rules for such facilities, announcing in March that residents can again have visitors in their private rooms and physically touch each other so long as masks are worn.

Read more Ohio coronavirus stories:

Cleveland Indians offer ticket discount for vaccinated fans

Just 995 new coronavirus cases reported in Ohio: Monday update

Ohios coronavirus case rate dips as number of red alert counties is reduced to 45

Memorial grove for Ohio coronavirus victims, survivors to be planted in Great Seal State Park

Voting up in 2020, but pandemic kept some away; Census Bureau report offers new look at who voted and who didnt
WHITEHALL, Ohio  Two young children died Sunday when an RV parked in the driveway of a home caught fire, reports say.

The identities of the children, a 2-year-old girl and an 11-month-old boy, had not been released by Sunday night. The mother of the two children was taken to a hospital for treatment of burns after trying to save her kids, WBNS Channel 10 reports. The father of the children was at work at the time of the fire.

When fire crews arrived at about 11:40 a.m., the RV was engulfed in flames, police tell WCMH Channel 4. Firefighters were able to quickly put out the fire, but the two victims were found inside the RV.

We do not suspect anything criminal at this time, Whitehall Police Chief Mike Crispen said in a news release, according to ABC 6. This is a tragic situation and the family of these children could use your prayers.

ABC 6 reports that the state fire marshals office, the Franklin County Coroners Office, and Whitehall police are investigating.

WBNS reports that the person who owns the home where the RV was parked said the parents were friends and had just parked the RV in the driveway Saturday night. The homeowner tells WBNS the family had planned to park in another location Sunday.

Whitehall is a suburb of Columbus.
UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS, Ohio -- Alan Miciak, executive vice president at John Carroll University, will be the schools newest president starting June 1.

Miciak, the former dean of the universitys Boler College of Business, will succeed Michael D. Johnson, who has served as president since 2018, according to a news release. Miciak will be the 26th president in school history.

As dean, Miciak helped drive enrollment growth, strategic investment and program innovation, according to a release. The universitys Board of Directors saw how Miciak could help the school navigate through its next phase of transformation, said Board Chair Bill Donnelly in the release.

As President, my single focus will be to ensure each student receives the right mix of academic challenge, experiential opportunity, and personal formation, Miciak said. I look forward to working with our outstanding faculty, staff, and the entire John Carroll community to put our full focus on the well-being and success of our students.

With Johnsons tenure ending, he reflected on his time as a president, noting how hes enjoyed working with students and colleagues.

I am proud to have been the leader of John Carroll and to have played an important role in helping students distinguish themselves academically and professionally, Johnson said in the release. I believe this University will always remain a pivotal Jesuit University and stand apart as a special place.
Rotunda Rumblings

Mapping out the future: When redistricting begins again later this year, Democrats hope that a new map-drawing process approved by Ohio voters in 2018 as a way to eliminate gerrymandered districts will bring the states congressional seat ratio more in line with the proportion of the states Democratic voters. Sabrina Eaton talked to political analysts who expect the new rules will provide a more regular shape to some of Ohios most peculiarly configured districts, but they expect Republicans will still find a way to stack the deck in their favor.

Not on board: Ohio Senate Minority Leader Kenny Yuko and House Minority Leader Emilia Sykes told reporters on Friday they dont agree with Republican Senate President Matt Huffmans proposed constitutional amendment to change redistricting deadlines for state legislative districts. They reiterated they thought state leaders should ask the Ohio Supreme Court to grant them more time because of delayed census numbers, and also said they dont think its necessary to change residency requirements for state lawmakers because of the time crunch. Huffman said Friday he hadnt directly spoken with Democratic leaders, and he was still preparing a vote for the amendment on Wednesday, although he wouldnt proceed if Democrats were opposed. Until someone says no or yes to me, I dont know what their answer is, Huffman said.

Touting transit: Vice President Kamala Harris and Ohio Democratic Sen. Sherrod Brown on Friday hosted a public transit love-fest in Cincinnati as a way to promote the infrastructure package that President Joe Biden wants Congress to pass. Eaton has details.

Bombs away: Ohioans saw their first attack ad of the 2022 U.S. Senate primary on Saturday, after a group backing Mandel bought airtime during the Kentucky Derby. As Andrew Tobias writes, a Super PAC called USA Freedom fund spent almost $100,000 on TV and digital ads, boosting Mandel and bashing some of his Republican opponents, former Ohio Republican Party Chairman Jane Timken, author/investor JD Vance and Cleveland investment banker Mike GIbbons. (Interestingly, the ad does not mention Cleveland businessman Bernie Moreno.) The group has dark money backing and shares a treasurer with Mandels Senate campaign.

Justice league: The Ohio Black Judges Association recently held its inaugural meeting, with Ohio Chief Justice Maureen OConnor attending and Ohio Supreme Court Justice Melody Stewart swearing in officers. The group is seeking more diversity on the bench, and hopes to work as a collective voice to address social and racial injustice, Laura Hancock reports.

Inside city hall: Just over a fourth of Ohio mayors and council members are women, a rate that is below the national average, Hancock reports. Interestingly, the percent of the Ohio General Assembly members who are women is higher than in municipal government, possibly because the legislature usually pays more.

Not half bad: Of the 361 law school graduates who sat for the latest Ohio Bar Examination, 54.3% passed, the Ohio Supreme Court announced Friday. The passage rate was the highest for a February exam since 2016 and was the states first full use of the Uniform Bar Exam, which is a test used by most states, which makes it easier for lawyers to receive law licenses in participating states.

A third of the way there: Nearly 33% of Ohios population had completed the coronavirus vaccine by Friday, meaning they had received a second dose of Moderna or Pfizer or the single-dose Johnson & Johnson shot. Meantime 96 more Ohioans had died with COVID-19, Hancock reports. New case totals for the last few days were 1,541 on Friday, 1,707 on Saturday and 985 on Sunday.

Canceled: U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, the far-right Georgia congresswoman, did not appear at the Statehouse on Saturday after the far-right Ohio Gun Owners canceled its planned rally. OGO blamed negotiations with the Capitol Square Review and Advisory Board, saying state lawyers rejected their plans to limit access to the event. A CSRAB spokesman declined to comment other than to say the groups permit had not been rejected. Josh Mandel, the former state treasurer and Republican U.S. Senate candidate, also was supposed to have attended.

Bench-clearing brawl: John Caniglia has the unusual story of two feuding Republican colleagues on the Stow Municipal Court pitted against each other in a bitter primary election fight. Judge Kim Hoover, who has four more years on his six-year term, decided to challenge Judge Kim Coates run for re-election this year. If Hoover wins, Coates would be out and he could groom his appointed successor, who would be chosen by Gov. Mike DeWine. Theres no Democrat in the race.

Help after benefits: Ohios unemployment system has received $5.6 million from the U.S. Labor Department to help Ohioans who are close to exhausting their benefits receive job-search assistance, training and career counseling, according to an Ohio Department of Job and Family Services release. In all, the Labor Department is giving states $146 million as part of its Re-employment Services and Eligibility Assessment (RESEA) program.

Borrowing trouble: A group of Midwestern farmers, including some in Ohio, have sued the federal government, saying they cant participate in a COVID-19 loan forgiveness program because theyre white. As Todd Richmond of the Associated Press reports, the suit says the Biden administrations COVID-19 stimulus plan excludes white farmers while providing $4 billion to forgive loans for socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers who are Black, American Indian, Hispanic, Alaskan native, Asian American or Pacific Islander.

Hold up: Columbus police can no longer use tear gas, pepper spray, wooden bullets or other non-lethal force against nonviolent protesters, under a preliminary injunction issued Friday by a federal judge. As Marc Kovac of the Columbus Dispatch reports, the order was sought by 26 protesters who claim that Columbus police brutalized them during demonstrations last year.

Voice over: Ted Williams, a once-homeless Columbus man whose golden voice was made famous by a 2011 viral video, isnt going to run for Ohio governor after all, according to the AP. Williams, who said last week that he would run as a Democrat, said in a statement that it was just an idea and that the timing wasnt right.

Lobbying Lineup

Five organizations that lobbied on House Bill 124, introduced last session. The bill, which did not pass, would have allowed Ohioans to raise small livestock (including goats, chickens, and rabbits) on residential property with certain exceptions, such as if they cause a nuisance or become a public health concern. State filings do not require lobbyists to disclose whether they are for or against a bill.

1. City of Dayton

2. Ohio Manufactured Homes Association

3. Ohio Pork Council

4. Ohio Poultry Association

5. Cleveland Animal Protective League

Birthdays

Kim Murnieks, Office of Budget and Management director

Straight From The Source

Never trust a man with two first names.

-Rob Secaur, Jane Timkens campaign manager, in a section of the Senate campaigns weekly email describing Democratic U.S. Rep. Tim Ryans entrance into the race. Secaur did not say how he felt about Republican Reps. Jim Jordan and Dave Joyce.

Capitol Letter is a daily briefing providing succinct, timely information for those who care deeply about the decisions made by state government. If you do not already subscribe, you can sign up here to get Capitol Letter in your email box each weekday for free.
Beachwood, OH (44122)

Today

A few showers this morning with numerous thunderstorms developing during the afternoon hours. High 81F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%..

Tonight

Widely scattered showers or a thunderstorm this evening. Then partly cloudy. Low 67F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%.
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According to a new research published by Polaris Market Research the net-zero energy buildings market is anticipated to reach over USD 96,008 million by 2026. In 2017, the commercial net-zero energy buildings segment dominated the global market, in terms of revenue. North America is expected to be the leading contributor to the global market revenue during the forecast period.

Several stringent energy consumption regulations passed by governments worldwide have boosted the adoption of net-zero energy buildings. Growing concerns regarding environment, depleting fuel resources, and increasing need to reduce energy consumption further support the growth of this market. Additionally, the increasing acceptance and reducing operation costs would boost market growth during the forecast period. Other factors supporting market growth include supportive government regulations, increasing awareness, and technological advancements. Increasing investments by vendors in technological advancements coupled with research and development further boost the market growth.

The demand for net-zero energy buildings has increased over the years owing to increasing energy concerns, and environment consciousness across the globe. The exponential growth in the prices of traditional fuel owing to the depleting fossil fuel reserves has encouraged consumers to switch to renewable sources for operations in net-zero energy buildings. Limited awareness among consumers has limited the adoption of these buildings in the past. However, with significant government initiatives and substantial investments, the development of net-zero energy buildings has accelerated significantly.

Request For Sample Copy : https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/net-zero-energy-buildings-market/request-for-sample

North America generated the highest revenue in the market in 2017, and is expected to lead the global market throughout the forecast period. The increasing awareness among consumers, and rising environmental concerns drive the market growth in the region. The governments in the region are collaborating with engineers and architects to promote the adoption of Net-Zero Energy Buildings. Public structures and universities are adopting net-zero energy buildings owing to stringent government regulations, and the need to reduce operation costs. Numerous key players have adopted partnership and expansion strategies to increase their market share in net-zero energy building markets of the North American region.

The different types of net-zero energy buildings include residential, and commercial. In 2017, the commercial segment accounted for the highest market share. The awareness regarding green buildings, and reduction in operation costs encourage the commercial sector to invest in non-zero energy buildings. Commercial structures such as manufacturing plants, offices, and institutes are adopting net-zero energy buildings to reduce emissions and energy use. The residential sector is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period.

The well-known companies profiled in the report include Siemens AG, General Electric, Johnson Controls International plc, SunPower Corporation, Altura Associates, Inc., Sage Electrochromics, Inc., Daikin Industries Ltd., Schneider Electric, Kingspan Group plc, and Integrated Environmental Solutions (IES) Limited among others. These companies launch new products and collaborate with other market leaders to innovate and launch new products to meet the increasing needs and requirements of consumers.

Any Special Requirement | Speak to our Industry Expert @ https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/net-zero-energy-buildings-market/speak-to-analyst
Beachwood, OH (44122)

Today

A few showers this morning with numerous thunderstorms developing during the afternoon hours. High 81F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms during the evening. Partly cloudy skies after midnight. Low 67F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%.
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The global magnetic sensor market size is expected to reach USD 4.68 billion by 2026 according to a new study by Polaris Market Research. The report Magnetic Sensor Market Share, Size, Trends, Industry Analysis Report By Type (AMR, GMR TMR, Hall Effect, Others); By Technology (Low Field Sensor, Earth Field Sensor, Bias Magnetic Field Sensor); By Application (Automotive, Consumer Electronics, Industrial, Aerospace and Defense, Healthcare, Energy and Power, Others); By Regions, Segment Forecast, 2020  2026 gives a detailed insight into current market dynamics and provides analysis on future market growth.

In the market, there are many manufacturing companies imparting magnetic sensors that are utilized in many programs where high dependability & cost-optimized solutions are needed. In a current discovery, the board has allowed improving those sensors. The National Institute of Standards & Technology (NIST) has observed that merging magnetic alloy layers with silver nanolayers will grow the sensitivity of magnetic. Being capable to utilize quite skinny films (magnetic sensor) is essential in applications like weapon detection, clinical devices, and records storage. Moreover, its main applications further consist of magnetic flux measuring & the direction in addition to the electricity of a magnetic field. These are mainly relevant within the sensors for android, navigation, commercial and scientific applications.

Get sample copy of this report @ https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/magnetic-sensors-market/request-for-sample

The upward push in the integration of a these sensor in the automobile industry permits contactless and wire-free measurement of mechanical quantities including the angle of rotation and angular speed. Governments encouragement to use eco-friendly vehicles and the increase of consumer electronics will growth the marketplace shares at some stage in the forecast period. Moreover, the advancement of small scale Micro Electro Mechanical Systems (MEMS) for detecting and measuring magnetic fields is broadly speaking driving the marketplace in conjunction with the growth of patron electronics appliances. These sensors primarily based on MEMs perform with Lorentz Force which makes it work extra efficiently. However, the Stiff competition and price erosion of magnetic sensors are the main restrain factors for the manufacturers in the market during the forecast period. Also, the growth in manufacturing capabilities, quality products, and reduce the overall cost of production of the magnetic sensors are the main challenges for the manufacturers in the global market over the forecast period.

Based on region, the global industry has been segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa. In 2019, Asia-Pacific region dominated the market in terms of value and volume owing to high production of conventional and electric vehicles. Also, the Asia-Pacific is the largest producer of consumer electronics in the global market in 2019. Such factors are expected to raise the demand for the magnetic sensors in the region in the coming years.

In North America, the connected automobiles have gained large prominence as consumer buying behavior has commenced hinging on conversation skills presented by diverse car manufacturers. Miniature magnetic sensors assist in supplying such skills while maintaining fundamental functionalities of the automobile intact. Sensing additives in various use cases such as position sensing, flow charge detection, and velocity sensing are creating opportunities in the domestic region in the forecast period. The European marketplace is projected to preserve a steady growth fee over the forecast period. Hybrid motors, that are included with Hall Effect contemporary sensing in the power systems, are witnessing expanded adoption in Europe, which has greatly aided marketplace increase. Hybrid motors, that are included with Hall Effect present-day sensing inside the strength systems, are witnessing increased adoption in Europe, which has significantly aided market growth.

Complete Summary with TOC Available @ https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/magnetic-sensors-market

Allegro Microsystems, Inc., Alps Electric Co., Ltd, Asahi Kasei Microdevices Corporation, AMS AG, Baumer Ltd., Crocus Technology, Elmos Semiconductor AG, Honeywell International, Inc., iC-Haus, Infineon Technologies AG, Magnetic Sensors Corporation, Melexis Corporation, Memsic Corporation, Micronas Semiconductor Holding AG, Microsemi Corporation, MultiDimension Technology Co. Ltd, NVE Corporation, NXP Semiconductors, Robert Bosch GmbH, Rotary and Linear Motion Sensor (RLS), Sensitec GmbH, TDK Corporation and others are the key players in the global market. Product launch, merger & acquisition, and partnerships encompass key players strategies to preserve and capture the most important share of the global market.

Polaris Market Research has segmented the magnetic sensor market report on the basis of type, technology, application, and region

Magnetic Sensors Type Outlook (Volume  Million Units, Revenue  USD Billion, 2016  2026)

Hall Effect

AMR (Anisotropic Magneto-Resistive)

GMR (Giant Magneto-Resistance)

TMR (Tunnel Magneto-Resistance)

Others

Magnetic Sensors Technology Outlook (Volume  Million Units, Revenue  USD Billion, 2016  2026)

Low Field Sensor

Earth Field Sensor

Bias Magnetic Field Sensor

Magnetic Sensors Application Outlook (Volume  Million Units, Revenue  USD Billion, 2016  2026)

Automotive

Consumer Electronics

Industrial

Aerospace and Defense

Healthcare

Energy and Power

Others

Magnetic sensors Regional Outlook (Volume  Million Units, Revenue  USD Billion, 2016  2026)

North America U.S. Canada

Europe UK Germany France Italy

Asia Pacific India Japan China South Korea

Latin America Brazil Mexico

Middle East & Africa

Avail discount on this report @ https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/magnetic-sensors-market/request-for-discount-pricing

About Polaris Market Research

Polaris Market Research is a global market research and consulting company. We provide unmatched quality of offerings to our clients present globally. The company specializes in providing exceptional market intelligence and in-depth business research services for our clientele spread across different enterprises. We at Polaris are obliged to serve our diverse customer base present across the industries of healthcare, technology, semi-conductors and chemicals among various other industries present around the world. We strive to provide our customers with updated information on innovative technologies, high growth markets, emerging business environments and latest business-centric applications, thereby helping them always to make informed decisions and leverage new opportunities.

Contact us-

Polaris Market Research

Phone: 1-646-568-9980

Email: sales@polarismarketresearch.com

Web: www.polarismarketresearch.com
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 3)  The Department of Health is asking for more funds for the additional pay of health workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a Palace briefing on Monday, Health Undersecretary Leopoldo Vega said the allocated budget under the Bayanihan 2 wasnt enough to cover the hazard pay and special risk allowance of medical frontliners since January.

What were asking for DBM right now is the hazard pay from January to June of this year. So we're asking for a budget for that, kasi hindi na kinaya ng Bayanihan 2 [because the funds under Bayanihan 2 didnt suffice], he said. Were hoping that well be given that provision from DBM, so we can actually easily download the hazard pay and the special risk allowance.

According to Vega, both forms of additional compensation for last year have already been paid out.

The health official also said the DOH is working to raise the salary of the Nurse 2 position, which is currently close to that of entry-level nurses. The Nurse 1 position falls under salary grade 15, while Nurse 2 is under salary grade 17.

Ang amin ngayong proposal for a higher salary grade for Nurse 2 is with DBM right now, kasi hindi pa sila magkaroon ng resolution dahil kailangan nga raw sabi ng DBM may legal basis to do that, he said.

[Translation: Our proposal for a higher salary grade for Nurse 2 is with DBM right now, and they said they cant issue a resolution yet as there should be a legal basis first to do that.]

He added that the DOH will also write to Congress about the matter.

Latest official data showed 17,558 healthcare workers have contracted COVID-19, of whom 89 have died and 17,287 have recovered. The confirmed number of active cases is now at 182.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 3)  The country has filed two diplomatic protests against China, including one for the illegal presence of the Chinese Coast Guard and their "belligerent" actions against their Filipino counterpart in Bajo de Masinloc, the Department of Foreign Affairs said on Monday.

The DFA said it has objected to the "shadowing, blocking, dangerous maneuver, and radio challenges" done by the Chinese Coast Guard on the vessels of the Philippine Coast Guard who were conducting legitimate patrols and training exercises in the vicinity of Bajo de Masinloc from April 24 and 25.

The National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea on April 28 reported that three Chinese Coast Guard vessels continue their "illegal presence" in Bajo de Masinloc or the Panatag Shoal off Zambales, one in the municipality of Kalayaan in Palawan, and another one in Ayungin Shoal. A total of five Chinese Coast Guard ships remain in Philippine waters as of last week.

The DFA also kept its promise to fire more protests if Chinese vessels refuse to leave Philippine maritime zones. It filed another one for the "incessant, illegal, prolonged, and increasing presence" of hundreds of Chinese fishing vessels and maritime militia vessels in the country's maritime zones.

It said these illegal Chinese vessels are continuing their unauthorized activities in the West Philippine Sea, particularly in the areas around the Pag-asa Islands, Zamora Reef, Panata and Kota Islands, Ayungin Shoal, Quirino Atoll, and Bajo de Masinloc up until March 18.

The DFA said two diplomatic protests have been filed against these acts of the China's Coast Guard, Chinese fishing vessels, and Beijing's maritime militia. The protests urged China to withdraw its vessels in Philippine waters and respect the country's sovereignty.

"China has no law enforcement rights in these areas," the statement said. "The unauthorized and lingering presence of these vessels is a blatant infringement of Philippine sovereignty."

Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. slammed China for its persistent activity in the country's waters, saying it is putting a strain on the two nations' warm ties.

"China, my friend, how politely can I put it? Let me see OGET THE F*** OUT. What are you doing to our friendship? You. Not us. Were trying," he replied to a news article on the diplomatic protests.

He said the 2016 landmark ruling of the arbitral tribunal in The Hague is clear. However, Beijing continues to reject the award which recognized the Philippines' sovereign rights in areas within its 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone and continental shelf that Beijing contests.

The Philippine government has filed a number of diplomatic protests this month and issued repeated appeals for China to withdraw its vessels. It also earlier protested Beijing's "illegal" building of artificial islands and structures and aggressive moves within the Philippines' EEZ.

Last week, DFA said at least 78 diplomatic protests have been filed against China under the Duterte administration.

CNN Philippines correspondent Tristan Nodalo contributed to this report
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 4)  The Department of Agriculture has created a team that will look into the efficacy of ivermectin and other agents to control the spread of African Swine Fever that has greatly affected the hog sector.

Agriculture Secretary William Dar issued Special Order no. 310 on April 30 that created the Research Team for ASF Control and Prevention that is assigned to formulate research proposals on the use of ivermectin, ASF Buster, Cloud Feed and other potential products for the control and prevention of ASF.

The team will also hold preliminary filed trials of said agents to produce science-based evidence as support to programs related to controlling and preventing the hog disease, as well as formulate policies guidelines in their use.

Moreover, the research team is tasked to collaborate with international research institutions to conduct experiments to support claims in the use of ivermectin and other agents.

Dr. Rene Santiago, OIC-assistant director for Production and Research of the Bureau of Animal Industry will lead the said program, while the technical advisers will be DA Undersecretary for livestock Dr. William Medrano, National Livestock Program Director Dr. Ruth Miclat-Sonaco, and BAI OIC-Director Dr. Reildrin Morales.

In the Philippines, health authorities have allowed the limited repurposing of the anti-parasitic drug used on animals on COVID-19 patients, despite warnings from experts on the drugs unproven efficacy against the coronavirus.

Meanwhile, the DA said it started its trials on a vaccine against ASF. The department said it is working with a US vaccine company and a global health group Zeotis.

The trials started on April 23 in 10 commercial farms and will run for 84 days.

The spread of the hog disease caused a great dent on the countrys hog production, leading to the commoditys price to spike, specifically in Metro Manila markets.

To address this, the government implemented a two-month price cap, followed by an order lowering tariffs on imported pork.

Amid doubts on the effect of cheap duties, senators held a hearing with the administrations economic team to find a compromise on such policy, but still struggled to do so.
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The global precision agriculture market is anticipated to reach over USD 13,016 million by 2026, According to a new study published by Polaris Market Research. In 2017, the yield monitoring application dominated the global market, in terms of revenue. North America is expected to be the leading contributor to the global market revenue during the forecast period.

There has been an increasing adoption of precision farming across the world owing to growing agricultural industry, and high-demand for food crops. The global precision farming market is driven by the increasing need to improve the quality of crops produced, maximizing crop production, and enhanced crop monitoring. Technological advancement along with government subsidies further boosts the market growth. However, high initial investment and lack of awareness limit the precision farming market growth.

Request for a sample of this research report @ https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/precision-farming-market/request-for-sample

North America generated the highest revenue in the precision agriculture market in 2017, and is expected to lead the global market throughout the forecast period. This is due to high cost of labor, and presence of large farmlands in the North American region. Increasing investments and subsidies in the agriculture sector by governments boost the precision farming market growth during the forecast period in the region. Increasing need to improve food quality and productivity along with increased industrialization of farming equipment further supplements market growth.

Various applications of precision farming include irrigation management, crop scouting, yield monitoring, weather tracking and forecasting, field mapping, inventory management, and farm labor management. In 2017, yield monitoring accounted for the largest share in the global market, and was estimated at $1,974 million in 2017, registering a CAGR of 13.2% during the forecast period. This is attributable to the benefits offered by yield monitoring such as reduced cost, improved yields, and enhanced decision making. Yield monitoring is further divided into on-farm yield monitoring, and off-farm yield monitoring.

Complete Summary with TOC Available @ https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/precision-farming-market

The well-known companies profiled in the report include Ag Leader Technology, AGCO Corporation, Deere and Company, Topcon Corporation, Trimble, Inc., The Climate Corporation, Farmers Edge Inc., and AgJunction, Inc. among others. These companies launch new products and collaborate with other market leaders to innovate and launch new products to meet the increasing needs and requirements of consumers.

 Precision Farming Market Size and Forecast, 2017-2026 by Hardware Type

o Automation & Control

 Drones

 Application control devices

 Guidance system

 Remote sensing

 Driverless tractors

 Mobile devices

 VRT

 Wireless module

o Sensing devices

o Antennas/access points

 Precision Farming Market Size and Forecast, 2017-2026 by Deployment Type

o Web-Based/Local

o Cloud Based

 Precision Farming Market Size and Forecast, 2017-2026 by Service

o System Integration

o Managed Services

o Maintenance & Support

o Consulting

 Precision Farming Market Size and Forecast, 2017-2026 by Application

o Irrigation Management

o Crop Scouting

o Yield Monitoring

o Weather Tracking and Forecasting

o Field Mapping

o Inventory Management

o Farm Labor Management

 Precision Farming Market Size and Forecast, 2017-2026 by Region

o North America

 U.S.

 Canada

 Mexico

o Europe

 Germany

 UK

 France

 Italy

 Russia

o Asia-Pacific

 China

 India

 Japan

 Australia

o Latin America

 Brazil

o Middle East & Africa

Avail discount on this report @ https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/precision-farming-market/request-for-discount-pricing

About Polaris Market Research

Polaris Market Research is a global market research and consulting company. The company specializes in providing exceptional market intelligence and in-depth business research services for our clientele spread across different enterprises. We at Polaris are obliged to serve our diverse customer base present across the industries of healthcare, technology, semi-conductors and chemicals among various other industries present around the world. We strive to provide our customers with updated information on innovative technologies, high growth markets, emerging business environments and latest business-centric applications, thereby helping them always to make informed decisions and leverage new opportunities. Adept with a highly competent, experienced and extremely qualified team of experts comprising SMEs, analysts and consultants, we at Polaris endeavor to deliver value-added business solutions to our customers.

Contact Us:

Polaris Market Research

Phone: 1-646-568-9980

Email: sales@polarismarketresearch.com

Web: www.polarismarketresearch.com
The Coastal Point is a local newspaper published each Friday and distributed in the Bethany Beach, South Bethany, Fenwick Island, Ocean View, Millville, Dagsboro, Frankford, Selbyville, Millsboro, Long Neck and Georgetown, Delaware areas.
Columbia, SC (29201)

Today

Partly cloudy early followed by scattered thunderstorms this afternoon. High 88F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Mainly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 72F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph.
Three out of four Colorado voters back a bill working its way through the General Assembly that seeks to lower prescription drug costs with a board that could set price limits on expensive medications, according to a new poll from Keating Research released Monday.

The poll  commissioned by Colorado Consumer Health Initiative, Good Business Colorado, the National MS Society and Centennial State Prosperity and conducted between April 20 and 26  shows broad support for the concept of Senate Bill 21-175 across party, region and age.

That bill would create the Prescription Drug Affordability Board, a five-member panel appointed by Gov. Jared Polis that would research, review and establish payment limits for drugs deemed unaffordable. The governor has previously spoken in support of the measure.

Of the 528 active voters who were asked about a proposal that would create a state board of appointed healthcare experts who would analyze and act to lower the cost of certain prescription drugs, 74% said they were supportive, with 42% of the overall sample in the strongly support category.

The concept of a prescription drug board was backed by majorities in each party, including by 89% of Democrats, 60% of Republicans and 74% of unaffiliated voters. Democrats made up 30% of the sample with Republicans making up 27% and unaffiliated voters rounding out the remaining 42%.

The poll also found widespread support across the four regions it grouped voters into, including:

Denver and Boulder counties, where 79% were supportive;

Adams, Arapahoe, Broomfield, Douglas, and Jefferson counties, suburbs where the poll found 73% support;

Front Range Larimer, Weld, Pueblo, and El Paso counties, where 76% of voters indicated they were supportive;

And the states remaining 53 counties, rural areas where the poll found 68% support.

The poll, which has a plus-or-minus 4.3% margin of error at the 95% confidence level, skewed slightly toward the suburban counties, which made up 38% of the sample. The Front Range counties were the next largest group in the sample with 26%, followed by Denver and Boulder with 19% and the rural counties at 17%.

Support for the proposal by age ranged from 68% on the low end, from those between 35-49, and 80% on the high end, from 50-64-year-olds.

The results match with a poll released by CCCHI earlier this year that found 77% of respondents supported a state board of appointed healthcare experts that would work to lower the cost of prescription drugs. After hearing arguments against the board, over 70% of respondents to that poll still supported it.

Since that poll, which was conducted last December and released in January, Sens. Sonya Jaquez Lewis, D-Longmont, and Julie Gonzales, D-Denver, and Reps. Yadira Caraveo, D-Thornton, and Chris Kennedy, D-Lakewood, introduced SB 175. The bill has cleared the Senate Health and Human Services Committee as well as the chambers Appropriations Committee and is scheduled for consideration before the full chamber on Tuesday.

It faces opposition from Republican lawmakers, who voted against it in both committees and have previously express concerns that it would impact the pharmaceutical industrys research and development capacity.

The bill also drew opposition from the industry. A spokesman for Pharmaceutical Research Manufacturers of America the trade group representing the pharmaceutical industry, in a statement to Colorado Politics in March said, Creating a board of unelected bureaucrats with the authority to arbitrarily decide what medicines are worth and what medicines patients can get would be a disaster for patients.

While Colorado policymakers are attempting to brand this government board as way to make medicines more affordable, there is no guarantee that the policy would provide any sort of meaningful savings for patients, said Nick McGee, PhRMAs senior director of public affairs. Even more, in practice, this policy could make it more difficult for individuals to access the medicines they need now and in the future and could lead to discrimination against seniors, those with disabilities and the chronically ill.
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Columbia, MO (65201)

Today

Partial cloudiness early, with scattered showers and thunderstorms during the afternoon. High 84F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%..

Tonight

Some clouds. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 68F. Winds light and variable.
The staff of the Litchfield Jazz Festival is presenting the fourth installment of their free virtual concert series for April.
Its that semi-annual time of the year we in AskWoody land call squirrel away time  time to make sure you have a copy of the ISO currently installed on your computer in case you need to reinstall it. There are a number of ways to get older versions of Windows by using a trick publicized on the Thurrott.com site. But the easiest way to grab a copy of, say, 20H2 is to go to the software download site, download a copy and store it on a spare hard drive, flash drive or external USB drive.

Even if you arent yet on 20H2, once you upgrade to that version youll have the proper media to perform a repair install.

Windows 10 repairs and maintenance

Often, I see workstations throwing off unusual error codes and refusing to update. These are the machines that make our lives miserable. Microsoft recommends doing a sfc /scannow or a DISM command  specifically DISM/Online/Cleanup-Image/RestoreHealth  but I often find that this doesnt help. (Microsoft has internal options to refresh, reset and restore your PC, but these options are too draconian; they rip out too many of my applications.)

I prefer a process called an in-place repair over the top. To do this, you need to have an ISO of the exact version of Windows 10 that is installed on your computer. While enterprises with volume licensing agreements can go to the VLSC site for older versions of Windows 10, regular users dont have that option.

For this repair plan to be successful, the operating system must be bootable and youll need to be logged into the administrator account to start the process. Save the ISO either on your hard drive or on an external USB drive. Double click on it so its mounted and seen as a virtual drive. Now browse to the setup.exe file location and double click on it. Click yes through the UAC prompt and follow the onscreen prompts. When you get to the screen where it asks if you want to keep personal files and apps ensure that you choose to do so. This video shows you the steps.

Once its complete, youll have your exact Windows 10 with its files and folders intact, fully fixed and able to again get Windows updates without issue.

Side note: Ive often seen where a manual install of the next feature release can fix an offending computer. If you are on Windows 10 2004, you could use the feature release install for 20H2 to fix misbehaving hardware that suddenly refuses to install updates.

This process also works for IT admins or consultants who patch for others. While many enterprises may just re-image and provide a new desktop, smaller companies often have custom images that have applications set just so. Re-imaging isnt always the answer. You can also use this repair technique for servers, but Ive never done it to a server holding the domain controller role; its usually easier and faster to just rebuild the offending server. It is concerning that no amount of dism commands will fix such a server when patching gets flakey. Windows Servers typically are on the Long Term Servicing Branch and do not participate in the same feature release process that Windows 10 does.

Office repairs

I find that Office typically does a much better job of handling click-to-run updates. Usually, the main issue of patching Office involves a new feature you dont want or broken inoperability with something you use. This is one reason I recommend moving away from the current channel of Office 365 and move to the semi-annual channel. Ive recommended this process many times; this video details the process.

To move to the semi-annual channel, from an administrative command prompt type in the following commands:

cd C:\Program Files\Common Files\Microsoft Shared\ClickToRun

OfficeC2RClient.exe /changesetting Channel=Broad

OfficeC2RClient.exe /update user

You will see it do a reinstallation of Office; once done, you should be safely on the more stable version of Office.

To get back to a specific version of click-to-run Office 2016, from an administrative command prompt type in officec2rclient.exe /update user updatetoversion=16.0.xxxx.yyyy and insert the version of Office you wish to run. In this case, xxxx.yyyy represents the build number of the version you want to change to. You can find the build numbers for each release provided by Microsoft; the trick is to put 16.0. in front of the build you are trying to install.

If you just want to repair your existing edition of Office, you cant get to the repair interface in the newer versions of Windows 10 by going through the control panel. You have to go through Start, Settings, then to Apps. Scroll down or search for Office, click on the Office icon, click on Advanced options, scroll down and choose Repair.

Bottom line: Im not a fan of sfc/ scannow or DISM as the best ways to repair systems. I find that in-place over-the-top installations are much more effective of getting your computer back into good working condition.
The nations leading prison ministry has given over 100,000 Bibles in the past nine months to incarcerated men and women across the country amid heightened demand for Gods word during the COVID-19 pandemic.

James Ackerman, CEO of Prison Fellowship, the leading Christian ministry serving prisoners and their families, told The Christian Post in an interview that the scale of the Bible distribution is nothing short of God-inspired and miraculous.

He explained how the hopelessness of the pandemic created a high demand for Bibles among many prisoners. Ackerman assured that Prison Fellowship has never seen this level of demand for the Gospel inside prisons in its 45-year history.

During a time when prisons had shut down, and incarcerated men and women had to go without visitations or programming, theres this sense of hopelessness in prisons, he said.

Source:The Christian Post
Christian groups are calling for prayers and providing aid to India as nearly 400,000 new cases are being recorded daily and over 3,000 are dying every day amid a buckling healthcare system.

Every Indian has someone or other in their family who has been affected, the Rev. Moumita Biswas from the Church of North India told Christian Today. We need support of food, which churches have been helping to provide. And, of course, prayers.

India recorded 368,000 infections on Sunday, at least 392,000 on Saturday, and more than 400,000 new cases on Friday. The drop in the number of infections on Sunday is due to a lower rate of testing during the weekend, according to The Indian Express.

It is believed that the actual rate of people getting infected with the new coronavirus is about 10 times higher than the official figures, and the number of cases is yet to peak over the next few weeks.

Source:The Christian Post
Hillsong East Coast has expressed disappointment over the recent resignation of Darnell Barrett, creative director of Hillsong Church Montclair in New Jersey, who claims he accidentally sent explicit photos to a former church volunteer and confessed to being unfaithful to his wife.

Darnell Barrett, the creative oversight for Hillsong East Coasts Montclair location (New York), resigned on Tuesday (April 27, 2021). Hillsong accepted his resignation and agreed that he could not continue as part of our team. We were disappointed to learn about choices he made that were unacceptable for any Hillsong staff member, the church said in a statement.

We recognize that there are countless Hillsong Church staff members and volunteers who carry their responsibilities with trustworthiness, integrity, and excellence. They represent the heart of Hillsong Church, and we thank them for the work they do. We also take seriously our responsibility to ensure that our staff is equally committed to creating a safe and Christ-centered environment where all people feel welcome.

Barrett, a 32-year-old father and U.S. Navy veteran, confirmed his resignation to The DailyMail last week after acknowledging that he shared lewd workout photos of himself wearing nothing but tights that showed a bulge in his pants in a message that was also sent to a former volunteer on Instagram last month.

Source:The Christian Post
Five years after Fulani herdsmen destroyed a Nigerian church in a raid that killed hundreds, an American pastor and attorney helped rebuild the church in time for Easter Sunday, which brought hope and healing in the midst of a very murderous regime.

New York City Pastor William P.B. Devlin, CEO of the nongovernmental organization REDEEM!; and Emmanuel Ogebe, an international human rights lawyer from the U.S.-based Nigeria Law Group, partnered together to help mend the hurting Agatu community in the Benue state of Nigeria.

The two men helped raise funds to rebuild the community's destroyed Methodist church after a tragedy struck five years ago.

Healing and hope: those are two great words that weve seen in a very practical way, Devlin, the missions pastor at Infinity Bible Church in the Bronx, told The Christian Post in an interview.

Source:The Christian Post
A Roman Catholic archbishop whose territory includes the church that Democratic House Speaker Nancy Pelosi belongs to has recommended that pro-abortion Catholics should not receive communion.

Archbishop Salvatore J. Cordileone of California released a pastoral letter on Saturday that addressed whether Catholics who actively campaign on behalf of pro-choice policies should be allowed to receive communion.

The Catholic Church official directed his comments at figures like Pelosi, who, while being a practicing Catholic, is known for her strong support of legal abortion.

Your Catholic ideals inspire you in your work to help those who experience discrimination, violence, and injustice, and you deserve the gratitude of your fellow Catholics and our nation for this service. But we cannot empower the weak by crushing the weakest, wrote Cordileone.

Source:The Christian Post
Yes, many fans who can't make it to Tokyo will come here.

There may be a bump but only at Olympic-related venues.

No, people will still be hesitant to go out and the Olympics won't change that.

Vote

View Results
With the weather warming up and outdoor dining and drinking back on track, there's no better time to check out one of Connecticut's rooftop bars.
BRIDGEPORT  Bridgeport schools will no longer provide an online instruction option for students and their families after this school year.

We know that the pandemic has had a profound impact on the social emotional well-being of our children and have learned a great deal as a result of its disruption to the educational process, Superintendent Michael Testani wrote in a memo Friday.

Bridgeport Public Schools recognizes that we must continue to evolve in the way we provide teaching and learning to our children. However, we must return back to full in person teaching and learning in order to provide children with the care and support they so desperately need to grow and succeed in life, he told parents.

During the pandemic, school districts were required to provide students and families with online access to education. However, that mandate will expire at the end of this school year.

Its going to be over basically a year and one-third that students havent been in school, that theyve been remote this year because parents have opted not to send them, Testani told Hearst Connecticut Media on Monday. I think thats been way too long at home.

The superintendent estimated that roughly 60 percent of Bridgeport students are enrolled in in-person instruction and showing up for school. Most of the breakdown is at the high school level, where 40 to 50 percent of students opted into and attend in-person school, he said. For younger grades, some schools are seeing about 85 to 90 percent of kids learning in classrooms.

Connecticut leaders in education have repeatedly emphasized the importance of getting kids back in classrooms, for both their academic and personal growth.

Prolonging this any longer I dont think is good for kids, educationally or social-emotionally, said Testani.

There is no substitute for in-person learning, U.S. Education Secretary Miguel Cardona, a former Connecticut education commissioner, said on a call Monday hosted by the Education Writers Association. Every day that the students are not in school is a lost opportunity for emotional connections, for relationship building, for academic support and for the school community to really wrap their arms around these children who, for the past year, are wondering whats going on.

Testani assured families the district will continue to provide personal protective equipment, or PPE, and implement state-mandated mitigation and quarantine protocols.

At this time, COVID-19 vaccines are only in circulation for students ages 16 and older. One producer, Pfizer, announced late March that its vaccine is effective among children ages 12 to 15, and experts say shots could be approved for that age group this summer.

Testani said he doesnt plan to push back an in-person start date to align with a possible vaccine roll-out to children.
ANSONIA  Naugatuck Valley residents are being priced out of rental homes due to out-of-state residents not only buying up homes, but also pricing out other renters from apartments.

This has led to a competition on limited housing stock in the region that officials at TEAM, a nonprofit human services agency, said could lead to homelessness.

According to David Fink, an independent housing consultant with TEAM, new residents find themselves priced out of homeownership and are settling on renting, leading to a cascading effect.

If you could afford to buy a house for $250,000, but suddenly homes are selling for $300 to $350 or $400,000. Now, you cannot find a home. So, what do you do? You try to rent. So that drives up the demand for rentals, Fink said

During a recent TEAM housing forum, one Ansonia resident complained that she tried to find an affordable apartment for months. She saw one apartment that was previously going for $1,200 a month three months ago but is now going for $1,500. She said during the meeting she is currently homeless and living in a shelter with her children.

According to U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development 2021 fair market rental summary, a fair price for a one-bedroom apartment in the area is $1,177 and a two-bedroom is $1,423.

Sara Bronin, founder of Desegregate CT, said that not only are more people renting, but more are heading to places like the Naugatuck Valley because they are being priced out of areas close to New York.

They're pushing outward into places like Derby and Ansonia, which have not traditionally seen that kind of influx, Bronin said.

The issue, she said, is that the new housing simply isnt constructed at a rate that can match demand. So the limited housing stock also impacts rental prices. She said that new housing in the state is constructed at the slowest rate in the nation.

Fink said that rental increases are leading to families either making do with less space or facing a horrible alternative.

They either have to move or they double up with relatives, or they find themselves homeless, he said.

Erin Kemple, executive director of the CT Fair Housing Center, said that while there are residents coming in from out of state, landlords cant just kick out a current tenant so they can rent it to someone else. The state eviction moratorium will expire by May 20 and the federal one will end on July 20.

In order to be able to get an exemption from the moratorium, the landlord can't say in the eviction papers, I want to evict you because I can rent to someone from New York City, Kemple said.

But, a resident from Shelton said during the meeting that her landlord wants a resident from New York to move in. She said shes not sure if her landlord will raise the rent or sell her home and she makes too much money to qualify for rental assistance programs if she wants aid since she wants to stay in the area.

This issue is also putting pressure on the shelter system in the area, said Lisa Savoid, development and communications manager for TEAM.

We don't have that many shelters to house all of the displaced people, Savoid said.

Savoid also said that the cost of living adds to tenants woes, which makes some residents unable to pay rent. The United Way states in its 2020 ALICE, or Asset Limited Income Constrained Employed, report that 53 percent of Ansonia residents live in poverty and so do 51 percent of Derby residents. The report counted residents who made more than the federal poverty level, but were unable to keep up with cost of living expenses.

Homelessness in Connecticut was down in 2019, according to HUD, but David Morgan, president and CEO of TEAM, said the end of the moratorium will lead to a sudden increase in calls for help.

I call it a tsunami of social economic need; TEAM is trying to be prepared and leverage internally as well as be aware of what's available externally to provide financial assistance, Morgan said.
Ned Gerard / Hearst Connecticut Media

BRIDGEPORT  One person is in custody after a person was stabbed in the chest late Sunday night, according to officials.

Scott Appleby, the citys director for emergency communications and emergency management, said someone call 911 around 11 p.m. to report a person had been shot in the 1100 block of East Main Street.
The thief got into the drivers seat and backed up the car with the siblings in the backseat, police said. When the thief pulled forward, the car struck a parked vehicle, which gave the 11-year-old boy a chance to jump out. But his younger sister was still inside when it again backed up, pulled forward and took off, police said.
Officials to be sworn in

A swearing-in ceremony, to be presided over by Kankakee County Circuit Court Judge Tom Cunnington, a former 6th Ward alderman, will take place tonight during the Kankakee City Council meeting. Following the conclusion of unfinished business of the exiting city council, the newly elected officials will be sworn into office, including the following:

Mayor Chris Curtis

City Clerk Stacy Gall

Aldermen

Cherry Malone Marshall, D-1

David Baron, D-2

Larry Osenga, R-3

Victor Nevarez, D-5

Kelly Johnson, D-6

Fred Tetter, D-7

After the ceremony, the new business portion of the council agenda will be acted upon, including appointment of department leaders.

The meeting is 7 p.m. tonight in the Donald E. Green Public Safety Center, 385 E. Oak St., Kankakee.
Edenton, NC (27932)

Today

Partly to mostly cloudy with a chance of thunderstorms. High 87F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 60%..

Tonight

Variable clouds with showers and scattered thunderstorms. Storms more numerous this evening. Low 72F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.
Elizabeth City, NC (27909)

Today

Partly cloudy skies this morning. Thunderstorms likely during the afternoon. High 87F. Winds SW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 60%..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms early, then variable clouds overnight with more showers at times. Low 72F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 60%.
Herford, NC (27944)

Today

Partly to mostly cloudy with a chance of thunderstorms. High 88F. Winds SW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 60%..

Tonight

Variable clouds with showers and scattered thunderstorms. Storms more numerous this evening. Low 72F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.
In March, Hartford city council passed a resolution to form a Universal Basic Income task force to develop the pilot. The group met for the first time last week and is still recruiting members. In the coming months, it will try to decide how the city would select people for the pilot, how much money participants would receive and where to look for private funding.
Dalton, GA (30720)

Today

Rain showers in the morning with thunderstorms developing for the afternoon. High 81F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%. Locally heavy rainfall possible..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms this evening followed by occasional showers overnight. Low around 70F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.
The new main entrance at the rear of the Kingston High School complex is shown on March 27, 2019.
Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Paul Kirby is a reporter for the Freeman, covering Kingston politics. He has been at the Freeman since August 1996.
Kaaterskill Falls, in the Greene County town of Hunter, N.Y., is shown in 2016.
The following items are based on information provided by officials in law enforcement and the criminal justice system.
But the trial lawyers who depend on the federal courts for livelihoods follow the application and screening process closely, and their prognostications have been uncannily accurate in the past. This time they suggest  as things now stand  that the two senators have sent the White House a half-dozen of so prospective judges weighted in favor of candidates who are public defenders or are Black. For the first time in memory, the group does not contain a federal prosecutor.
USD/JPY PRICE OUTLOOK: US DOLLAR EXTENDS PULLBACK ON ISM MANUFACTURING PMI MISS

US Dollar under pressure as Mondays trading session gets underway

USD/JPY price action sliding to daily lows following softer PMI data

ISM manufacturing was reported at 60.7 versus the 65.0 forecast

The US Dollar is hitting new session lows right now in the wake of disappointing PMI data just released by the Institute of Supply Management. USD/JPY currently trades 34-pips lower intraday with the move to the downside nearly erasing last Fridays sharp rise. According to the DailyFX Economic Calendar, the ISM manufacturing PMI crossed market wires with a reading of 60.7, which was below the 65.0 forecast. The weaker-than-expected PMI report also reflects a deceleration in manufacturing activity from last months print of 64.7, but the sector continues to expand nonetheless.

USD/JPY PRICE CHART: 15-MINUTE TIME FRAME (29 APRIL TO 03 MAY 2021)

Chart by @RichDvorakFX created using TradingView

Relatively softer PMI data may be causing an unwind of US Dollar strength seen late last week in response to Dallas Fed President Robert Kaplan suggesting it is time to start talking about FOMC tapering. To that end, USD/JPY price action could be headed toward the 108.80-level to test nearside technical support before April lows come into focus for US Dollar bears.

Keep Reading  US Dollar Technical Analysis: Needs to Climb Resistance to Continue Fridays Move

-- Written by Rich Dvorak, Analyst for DailyFX.com

Connect with @RichDvorakFX on Twitter for real-time market insight
Ashland, KY (41101)

Today

Rain showers this morning with numerous thunderstorms developing during the afternoon hours. High 73F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 100%..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms early, then variable clouds overnight with more showers at times. Low 66F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%.
Pictured left to right are: Dave Stauffer, Chester County Parks - Preservation; Seyi Akinlotan, of PennDOT; Commissioner Marian Moskowitz; Ryan Gallagher, Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission; Elaine Schaefer, Schuylkill River Greenways; Commissioner Josh Maxwell; Gail Lipstein and Bob Dredge, representing the Circuit Trails; Commissioner Michelle Kichline; and Ed Auble, Chester County Parks board chairrman.
A Kennett High School senior stands near a sign that was provided by volunteers from the Kennett Education Foundation.
Quantitative easing is not an ideal topic for breakfast-time conversation on BBC radio. But when it gives rise to accidental hilarity, that can be endured and even enjoyed.

Which is what happened last Friday on the Today programme, when the leader of the Scottish National Party, Nicola Sturgeon, was hopelessly floundering on the issue under questioning from Justin Webb (who has the great gift of being simultaneously persistent and polite).

When Webb asked the same (unanswered) question for a third time, Sturgeon said: 'Sorry, I've lost sound. Hello?' It was like a scene from The Thick Of It, Armando Iannucci's TV satire, when politicians trying to avoid answering an embarrassing question via telephone, pretend the line has gone ('Hello? Hello? Oh dear, I seem to have lost you').

I'm not accusing Sturgeon of the same trick. And this was a truly important question, given the SNP will, if they gain a majority of seats in Holyrood in this Thursday's elections, claim a mandate for a second independence referendum.

Last Friday on the Today programme, the leader of the Scottish National Party, Nicola Sturgeon (pictured), was hopelessly floundering on quantitative easing under questioning from Justin Webb (who has the great gift of being simultaneously persistent and polite)

Crisis

The SNP's official position is that if they thereby gain independence, they will initially retain sterling, but without, obviously, any recourse to the Bank of England  rather as Panama uses the U.S. dollar as its currency, but with no access to support from the U.S. Federal Reserve.

As Webb pointed out, this would mean the Scottish government could not carry out the policy of 'quantitative easing', whereby the central bank creates money digitally, which it uses to buy its own debt.

Whatever you think of this policy, it was used by the Bank of England, the European Central Bank (ECB) and the U.S. Federal Reserve to inject liquidity into their economies in the wake of the credit crunch. The Bank of England has done the same during the height of the economic crisis precipitated by the pandemic.

So when Justin Webb repeatedly asked Sturgeon what an independent Scotland would do in similar circumstances, if  as it proposes for the first few years afterwards  it retained a currency over which it had no control, she had no coherent answer. Worse still (for her), Webb continued probing on the same point once the line was restored. Still no answer; or at least not one which made any sense.

When Webb (pictured) asked the same (unanswered) question for a third time, Sturgeon said: 'Sorry, I've lost sound. Hello?' It was like a scene from The Thick Of It, Armando Iannucci's TV satire

It was almost certainly for similar reasons that, the previous day, NatWest (the parent company of the Royal Bank of Scotland) warned that if Scotland were to become independent, it would transfer RBS out of Edinburgh.

Its boss, Alison Rose, said: 'Our balance sheet would be too big for an independent Scotland. And so we would move our registered headquarters to London.'

It was only because of the financial fire-power of the Bank of England (and of British taxpayers as a whole) that RBS  as the most 'bust' of all British banks  was saved from collapse in 2009.

This was almost certainly on Ms Rose's mind when she made that statement.

The SNP's policy is also, however, to adopt, in time, the Euro: at which point this proud newly independent nation would have its monetary policy determined in Frankfurt.

That's inevitable, anyway, because applicants for EU membership are now obliged to prepare for membership of the Euro: and the principal reason always given by Sturgeon for why the Scots should have a second referendum  having earlier described the 2014 independence vote as a 'once in a generation choice'  is that 'Scotland was taken out of the EU against our will'.

But she also refuses to admit to what getting ready for Euro membership would mean, in terms of 'austerity'.

An independent Scotland's structural deficit would, according to the Institute for Fiscal Studies, be equivalent to around 10 per cent of GDP  and it says the figure would have been as high as 25 per cent last year were it not for the support of the Bank of England and the Treasury. Yet under EU treaties, Scotland would have to bring its deficit down to below 3 per cent.

NatWest (the parent company of the Royal Bank of Scotland) warned that if Scotland were to become independent, it would transfer RBS out of Edinburgh (pictured: RBS boss Alison Rose)

Awkward

Interviewed by Andrew Marr last week, when asked how an independent Scotland would replace the funds for public spending currently guaranteed by the so-called Barnett Formula (under which Britons in Scotland receive 2,500 a year more than they pay in taxes, compared with just 91 for those in England), Sturgeon said that instead of 'a decade of Tory austerity completely against our will  we'll deal with a deficit in the same way almost every other country across the world that has a deficit deals with that  you manage your finances'.

Well, yes: but it will be the ECB and the European Commission which will tell Edinburgh how big (or rather, small) that deficit will be. Sturgeon needs only look at what happened to the Republic of Ireland in the wake of the 2009 financial crisis.

The Commission and the ECB demanded Dublin cut unemployment benefits and public sector pay, while increasing the age of eligibility for the state pension. As Paul Sweeney of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions wrote of their dealings with the ECB and the Commission: 'It was clear who was in control. It was not a dialogue.'

Good for the BBC's interviewers in London for challenging Sturgeon on these matters. Even if the line goes dead at awkward moments.

The SNP's official position is that if they thereby gain independence, they will initially retain sterling, but without, obviously, any recourse to the Bank of England (pictured, stock image)

DIVERSITY IS BIG, BUT AS BAFTA NOW KNOWS, #METOO IS BIGGER

Only the death of the Duke of Edinburgh on April 9, it seems, saved Prince William from a great embarrassment.

As president of BAFTA (the British Academy of Film and Television Arts), the Duke of Cambridge was to have made a speech praising the academy the day after its 2021 Awards on April 10 in which the actor-producer Noel Clarke received a prize for 'outstanding British contribution to cinema'.

The point is that the previous year Prince William criticised BAFTA for its poor record in recognising 'minority talent'. In giving such a coveted and rare award to Clarke, BAFTA was trying to address such criticism.

Clarke has projected himself as an exemplar without equal, in this respect. In an interview last September, he declared: 'If you think of all the opportunities black actors have today, that's because of stuff I did.'

Even by the standards of the egotism rife in showbusiness, that's going it a bit.

To be honest, I'd never heard of him. Sidney Poitier, Morgan Freeman, Samuel L Jackson  and our own Lenny Henry  yes. But Noel Clarke?

The Guardian last week reported allegations from 20 women in the business, all with stories to tell of unwanted sexual propositioning or related unpleasantness from Noel Clarke (pictured)

Well, we're all hearing about him now, after the Guardian last week reported allegations from 20 women in the business, all with stories to tell of unwanted sexual propositioning or related unpleasantness from Clarke.

He has simultaneously apologised and denounced it all as lies. This somewhat paradoxical response has not saved his career. BAFTA, his agents, TV production companies for which he has worked: all, immediately, dumped him.

BAFTA withdrew his award less than half an hour after the Guardian broke the story, which raises the question as to whether they had a pretty good idea of his (alleged) behaviour even when giving him the special award. But when the accusations went public . . . oops. Diversity is big, but #MeToo is bigger.

I draw another, different, lesson. The whole show- business awards ritual is a puffed-up and increasingly politicised pantomime. But at least the Golden Globes put things in their proper perspective by inviting Ricky Gervais to introduce them.

His concluding remarks at the ceremony in January 2020 were unimprovable: 'If you do win an award tonight, please don't use it as a platform to make a political speech. You're in no position to lecture the public about anything. Most of you spent less time in school than Greta Thunberg.

'So if you win, come up, accept your little award, thank your agent and your God and **** off.' So say all of us.
Q I feel my skin is getting thinner and drier with age (Im 49), making me look gaunt. Now that clinics are open, I want to invest in a treatment to get some of its spring and plumpness back  but without shooting my face full of Botox. What can you recommend?

A Yes, Im all about injectable moisturiser  treatments that involve shooting liquid hyaluronic acid (a hydrating substance thats naturally present in our bodies) into the skins deeper layers.

An anonymous reader, 49, asked for advice on restoring plumpness in her face without using Botox (file image)

They create a reservoir of moisture that lasts up to six months, very subtly adding density and luminosity and basically keeping the slow progress of slackness and dryness at bay. Dr Wassim Taktouk (drwassimtaktouk.com) favours Teosyal Redensity-1, a version of this protocol that adds a cocktail of vitamins and amino acids to the hyaluronic acid, so it delivers collagen-boosting nutrients to boot.

He administers 100-plus individual injections  after applying numbing cream, so it wont hurt. You will look like a bee-stung alien from outer space for 24 hours. And you will have to do it twice more, spaced three weeks apart, but youll end up juicier, fresher and with considerably fewer fine lines.

Single-treatment top-ups every six to nine months are advised. A three-session course is 1,050 with Dr Taktouk, and starts at 600 around the UK (email uk_info@teoxane.com).

Inge van Lotringen (pictured) recommended a treatment involving liquid hyaluronic acid that lasts up to six months

Email your questions to Ingeborg van Lotringen, author of Great Skin, at inge@dailymail.co.uk.
A home cook has shared how to make miniature cob loaves for a quick and easy weeknight treat.

To make the tiny version of the classic Australian dish, Lara, from Queensland, only used five ingredients - cream cheese, creamed corn, diced bacon, French onion soup mix and bread rolls from Woolworths.

The mouthwatering snack would take no longer than half an hour to make and would please the entire family.

The idea would be perfect to prepare for kids birthday parties and large family gatherings.

To make the tiny version of the classic Australian dish, Lara, from Queensland, only used five ingredients - cream cheese, creamed corn, diced bacon, French onion soup mix and bread rolls from Woolworths

To make the meal, Lara removed centre of each bread roll and combined the remaining ingredients together in a bowl.

She then spooned the creamy mixture into the rolls then baked the bread in the oven for 15 minutes.

The end result looked golden brown with a crispy top and delicious creamy centre.

To make the meal, Lara removed centre of each bread roll and combined the remaining ingredients together in a bowl. She then spooned the creamy mixture into the rolls then baked the bread in the oven for 15 minutes

How to make miniature cob loaves: Ingredients: One block cream cheese

One tin creamed corn

Diced bacon

One packet French onion soup mix

Woolworths bread rolls Method: Mix all ingredients together Remove the centre of each bread rolls Fill the rolls with the creamy mixture and bake for 15 minutes Source: Mums Who Cook & Bake Advertisement

Other mums part of the online community praised Lara for sharing the clever idea.

'What a great idea for parties too!' one person wrote, another said: 'My mouth is watering!'

'Such a cool idea,' a third said and dubbed it the ultimate treat.

Last year thousands of home cooks were showing off their inventive cob loaf creations using the popular Kmart air fryer

To fill the bread loaf, one woman used cream cheese, cream, sour cream, grated cheese, diced bacon, onion, a handful of shallots and salt and pepper to season (pictured)

Last year thousands of home cooks were showing off their inventive cob loaf creations using the popular Kmart air fryer after the indulgent trend started taking off in Facebook foodie groups.

While the edible bread bowl is usually filled with sour cream and French onion soup mix, Australians are now adding bacon, garlic, capsicum, onion and grated cheese to take the snack to another level.

'Made my first air fryer cheese and bacon cob - so much better than the oven!' one woman wrote online alongside two photos of her tasty cob loaf.

'I used the 3.2 litre air fryer, cooked for five minutes on 180 [degrees Celsius], took out and mixed and cooked for another five minutes on 170 [degrees].'

Another woman said she used sourdough bread and said it tasted incredible.
Kate Middleton is 'playing a big hand' in the ongoing remolding of the monarchy having found confidence after Megxit, a royal expert has claimed.

The Duchess of Cambridge, 39, is currently living at her Kensington Palace home with Prince William, 38, and their three children, Prince George, seven, Princess Charlotte, six, and Prince Louis, three, having celebrated her tenth wedding anniversary with the Duke last week.

Sources have now revealed how the mother-of-three's work has been 'refocused' in the past year since Prince Harry, 36, and Meghan Markle, 39, announced their plans to step back from life in the royal family.

Speaking to Vanity Fair's Katie Nicholl, historian and author Sarah Gristwood said: 'I'll bet those courtiers who reputedly once sneered about 'Waity Katy' are the very ones bowing lowest now.

Kate Middleton, 39, is 'playing a big hand' in the ongoing remoulding of the monarchy having found confidence after Megxit, a royal expert has claimed

'She looks like the person who's going to have to play a big hand in the ongoing remoulding of the monarchy.'

It was around 2008 when the cruel tag Waity Katie was aimed by some at William's then long-time girlfriend.

However one palace aide said that since joining The Firm in 2010, the Duchess has become 'very focused' on her role.

In fact, despite the heartache of Megxit, sources said it has made Kate even more determined and confident in the past 18 months.

One palace aide also revealed how the Duchess has become 'very focused' on her role and wants to bring about 'real, lasting change' with her passion project on Early Years development

They said it has prompted her to want to bring about 'real, lasting change', in particular with her passion project on Early Years development.

They revealed: 'The duchess is definitely doing things that are different and outside her comfort zone these days, and that's because she feels confident doing them.

'She's very comfortable in her royal role and her family role. She's a very hands-on mum.

'They are a happy family and that has resulted in a quiet confidence about her.'

Sources have now revealed how the mother-of-three's work has been 'refocused' in the past year since Prince Harry, 36, and Meghan Markle, 39, announced their plans to step back from life in the royal family

The comments come as Russel Myers said Prince William and Prince Charles will leave Prince Harry and Meghan to 'sort things out on their own' while they 'unite in getting back to business.

The royal expert has said Prince William and his father, the Prince of Wales, 72, 'want to draw a line under Harry and Meghan' who have been a 'distraction for the family.'

Speaking to talkRADIO about the Duke of Sussex and Meghan, who live with their son Archie, one, in a $14.7million home in Santa Barbara, California, the royal expert explained: 'The rest of the Royal Family are very, very united in trying to get back to business.'

'We have hardly seen them. They have popped up on Zoom calls here and there.'

It was around 2008 when the cruel tag Waity Katie was aimed by some at William's then long-time girlfriend (pictured, with the Duke in 2008)

'But no one has done the real business of monarchy, which is getting out, being among the people and shining a light on different charities, and travelling the world and the Commonwealth.

He continued: 'It's part of getting Britain back on its feet. As far as Harry and Meghan are concerned, I think they will be left to try and sort things out on their own.'

It comes after radio host Kevin O'Sullivan commented: 'There was this suggestion that Charles was all for forgive, forget, heal the rift - but apparently not.

'If that is his state of mind, I think the British people will be behind him every step of the way. I think most people think Harry does not deserve to be forgiven.'

Prince William and Charles 'want to draw a line under Harry and Meghan' after they caused a 'distraction' to the Royal Family, according to Russel Myers. Pictured, during bombshell Oprah Winfrey interview

Russell went on to note how the Oprah Winfrey interview went down like a 'lead balloon.'

During the bombshell interview, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle said racism drove them out of Britain and claimed their son Archie was denied the title of prince because he is mixed-race.

Meghan also claimed that Kate Middleton left her in tears during a row over bridesmaid dresses and Prince Harry accused his father Prince Charles of refusing to take his calls when the pair moved to the US last year.

'There will be quite a lot of dissatisfaction in the camp and it remains to be seen whether they will ever be brought back in,' the royal expert continued.

Russell Myers told how Prince William and Charles are 'united' in wanting to 'get back to business' Pictured, at Prince Philip's funeral

'I'm sure that Harry was a bit sheepish seeing the rest of his family at Prince Philip's funeral.'

He added: 'It was the first time he has spoken to many of them since that Oprah Winfrey interview where he accused them of all manner of things.'

'He went back to America with his tail between his legs and who knows what will happen in the future.'
A grandfather who was tasked with making a house bed for his grandson after his daughter kept seeing photos of the trend on social media has impressed DIY fans.

Danielle Jade Ahmed, 29, from Wrexham, Wales, first fell in love with house beds after seeing photos from companies in the US and wanted to get one for her son, Zair, two.

She decided to ask her father Darren Evans, 53, to help build one after realising how expensive they were to purchase.

The bed took around six to eight weeks to design, with the granddad working one to two days a week on the impressive 200 project - complete with a doorbell, TV and LED lights.

Danielle Jade Ahmed, 29, from Wrexham, Wales, asked her father Darren Evans, 53, to build a house bed for her son Zair, two. Pictured: The DIY house bed

Danielle was inspired to have a house bed built after seeing how expensive they are to order from the U.S. Pictured: The interior of the house bed

Darren spent around six to eight weeks on the project and spent just 160 on the basic frame including the windows and stairs. Pictured: The house bed in construction

The DIY house bed has been made mostly with recycled materials and wood from a local supplier in Marchiel, Wales, along with other materials from Wickes.

Just 160 was spent on the basic frame for the windows, the house, the panelling and the stairs.

For the roof tiles, Danielle recycled wood leftover from building a fence and the door costing just 6.

The family had recently had carpets fitted, and used the off-cuts for the stairs and the glass for the door came from an old fridge.

Darren who works as a lorry driver, had just one to two days a week available to build the house bed. Pictured: Zair with his granddad Darren Evans

The family used recycled wood leftover from building a fence and the door for the roof tiles - costing just 6. Pictured: The house bed under construction

Danielle and Darren used the off-cuts from recently having carpets fitted for the stairs and took glass from an old fridge for the door. Pictured: The stairs which were added on last as a separate piece

Danielle who is a homecare assistant, added a doorbell from Amazon, along with LED lights and a TV for the finishing touches.

'It was built for my little boy Zair who is three years old in October,' Danielle said.

'I had seen some online but the prices were crazy and they were based in America, but I had fallen in love with them and knew my son would as well.

'The process took around siz to eight weeks, because my dad who built it works away as a lorry driver and only had one to two days a week available to carry out the work.

Danielle used Dulux to decorate the bed and masonry paint for the white areas throughout the house bed. Pictured: Under construction

'I decorated the bed with Dulux for the windows and frames and masonry paint for all of the white.

'First we made the frame, then added the panelling on downstairs and made the cut-out for the windows and entry to the bed itself, upstairs and doorway.

'My dad then made all the windows and doors, and fitted these in.

'Then he made the roof to fit around the dormer windows and added the tiles on individually to give it the effect it has.

'It was then fully painted, the stairs were added on last as a separate piece.'

Danielle explained they began the project by making a frame, with Darren making all of the windows and doors. Pictured: Zair with his granddad Darren Evans

Sharing her advice for others who might want to take on the project, Danielle added: 'I'd advise knowing someone who is confident working with wood.

It took a lot of painting and cutting but the end results are amazing and worth every second.'

Danielle took to Facebook to share the results of her DIY project in a post that has racked up over 3,000 likes and hundreds of comments.

She captioned the post: 'After seeing the amazing house beds others have done and searching online at the prices of them, I put the idea forward to my dad and he's created this!

Danielle said the project took a lot of painting but the end results were worth every second. Pictured: The house bed under construction

'(He's a lorry driver) but pretty handy with wood, had to share it very impressed with his DIY on a budget.'

'Pretty handy with wood' is an understatement it's amazing,' wrote one person.

'Spectacular. You should think about giving up your day job. Folk pay fortune for this sorted of bespoke beds,' another added.

'I want one for myself never mind the kids,' wrote a third fan of the DIY bed.

'That's freaking awesome. I've been thinking of building a special bed for my son when he's a little older,' another said.

Danielle racked up over 3,000 likes and hundreds of comments on a Facebook post sharing the finished house bed. Pictured: under construction
The language will also ensure that black and brown folk would have easier access to getting involved in the marketplace, and the goal would be ensuring that the market doesnt get owned by large companies. This is more difficult to do - but by providing grants to individuals who would otherwise have a hard time funding their operation, we will continue to work toward providing equity,' Elliott added.
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In recent years, Italian towns have been fighting depopulation by selling vacant homes for just 1 each  and one California woman decided it was such a good deal that she bought three of them.

Solar consultant and business owner Rubia Daniels was one of the first to buy a bargain-priced house in Mussomeli, Sicily, in the spring of 2019, and went on to buy two more for her children.

Daniels later returned with a group of friends and family, several of whom bought their own Sicilian houses, and she now plans to retire in the town, which sits two hours southeast of Palermo.

Though Daniels is thrilled with her good deal, she warns others going in blind that they should 'have a level of reality' about the inexpensive homes, adding: 'If you sell me a house for 1, I know I'm going to have to fix it.'

Score! Solar consultant and business owner Rubia Daniels was one of the first to buy a bargain-priced house in Mussomeli, Sicily, in the spring of 2019

Bright idea: Daniels, who had never been to Sicily before buying the houses but speaks Italian, first became aware of the 1 homes after reading an article about Mussomeli

Moving fast: She quickly snapped up another two houses in the town

Homeowner: She made the purchase because of 'how the people make you feel' and 'how welcoming the town was'

Ta-da! She ended up buying additional homes for each of her kids  and later brought friends and family to go house shopping

What a mom! She bought houses for two of her kids (pictured left with her partner and stepson) and helped a third (right) by her own

Daniels, who had never been to Sicily before buying the houses but speaks Italian, first became aware of the 1 homes after reading an article about Mussomeli. She did a lot of research on the town, as well as the houses for sale, and emailed for more information.

Armed with knowledge, she flew to Sicily hoping she'd end up buying one house, and found herself in a town that is 'almost like sitting above the clouds.'

It's got history! Daniels shows off an old house key

She didn't take the decision to buy lightly, and spent days touring houses, deciding, and verifying documents.

'Once you get there, there are so many opportunities that if you're only there a week, you'll run out of time, come home, and be frustrated,' she said.

Daniels gave herself plenty of time and ended up buying three homes instead of one, including one for each of her sons, Yuri, 24, and Ygor, 22. She also helped her daughter Selena, 24, buy her own house, for which she is now completing the paperwork.

'They were all very excited and have different dreams and aspirations for the houses in the future,' she told DailyMail.com. 'My youngest is planning to open a Brazilian Coffee Shop!'

While she hadn't intended to buy so many homes, she said: 'It's how the people make you feel that makes you say, "OK, I'll buy three."

'Overall, [the locals have been] very positive and welcoming,' she said. 'They really make it easy for people to come in and pursue their dreams. Mussomeli is becoming a multicultural place with people from all over the world.'

'Mussomeli is all about socializing,' she added to Travel + Leisure. 'It's a much slower place because it's not about the money. It was a very positive experience, and it felt empowering as a woman,' she said, adding that she decided to buy because of 'how welcoming the town was.'

Be prepared! Daniels said others should do research before arriving. In Mussomeli, buyers must renovate within three years or face losing a reported 5,000 deposit

Pricey: Renovations prices can range between 100 ($121) to 700 ($844) per square meter, and homes range from 11 to 190 square meters in size

So far, she has spent $12,000 on labor and materials for the first house, and expects that it'll cost her about $20,000, which is average in the area

Getting her hands dirty! Daniels is pictured working on the house that she plans to retire in

Held up: Unfortunately, though the pandemic impacted her planning a bit, and she hopes that the town will extend the deadline for renovations

'Overall, [the locals have been] very positive and welcoming,' she said

Hey, neighbors! All in all, she estimates that she has helped 20 people buy property there

Down south: Mussomeli is located in the southern part of Italy, and is around 40 minutes from the nearest beach

Several towns in Italy have made headlines for offering up nearly free houses to buyers in the past few years.

Mussomeli, which is home to Byzantine caves and a medieval castle, was one of the first to do so, hanging signs on the doors of available properties directing prospective buyers to a website.

The Municipality of Mussomeli explains that so many homes remain empty because the people who lived in them have died, and their children and grandchildren choose to live in other cities.

Other citizens have relocated to larger cities for work, or moved to newer homes during the building boom of the 1970s.

But while the sale price for each of the houses is just 1, the actual price of owning any of these houses in naturally a bit higher.

'People need to have a level of reality,' Daniels said. 'If you sell me a house for 1, I know I'm going to have to fix it. They're revitalizing the town and that's why the house is coming to you for 1. Then, you have to do the work.'

Anyone who buys a house in Mussomeli has to renovate it within three years, or they face losing their deposit, which is reportedly 5,000 ($6,032).

According to CNBC, renovations prices can range between 100 ($121) to 700 ($844) per square meter. Since house sizes range from 11 to 190 square meters, the total cost of renovations can be as much as 133,000 ($160,451).

Bright idea! Mussomeli, which is home to Byzantine caves and a medieval castle, was one of the first Italian cities to offer the budget homes

Empty: The municipality explains that so many homes remain empty because the people who lived in them have died, and their children and grandchildren choose to live in other cities

Movin' out! Other citizens have relocated to larger cities for work, or moved to newer homes during the building boom of the 1970s

'People need to have a level of reality,' Daniels said. 'If you sell me a house for 1, I know I'm going to have to fix it'

Historic: In Mussomeli, buyers are also allowed to do whatever they want to the interiors of their homes, but the facades must be kept as-is

'There are plenty of construction companies there that make things very easy, and the person who works in the city department is helpful,' Daniels said

In Mussomeli, buyers are also allowed to do whatever they want to the interiors of their homes, but the facades must be kept as-is.

Luckily, Daniels told DailyMail.com that she 'loves the architecture of the house and the history.'

Daniels wasn't worried about the renovations, and returned in the summer of 2019 to start them.

'There are plenty of construction companies there that make things very easy, and the person who works in the city department is helpful. If you bring plans, he'll give you the best guidance,' she said.

She also said that when she first went to buy materials for the renovations, the man at the store even came over to measure everything with her to make sure she didn't spend too much.

So far, she has spent $12,000 on labor and materials for the first house, and expects that it'll cost her about $20,000, which is average in the area.

Unfortunately, though the pandemic impacted her planning a bit, and she hopes that the town will extend the deadline for renovations.

In December of 2019, she returned for a third trip, this time bringing along family and friends to do their own house shopping. All in all, she estimates that she has helped 20 people buy property there.

Things to see! A view of Mussomeli's castle, which dates back to 1364

'Mussomeli is all about socializing. It's a much slower place because it's not about the money,' Daniels said

Growing old in: Daniels plans to retire in the town, which sits two hours southeast of Palermo

'Once you get there, there are so many opportunities that if you're only there a week, you'll run out of time, come home, and be frustrated,' Daniels said

Daniels suggests doing research before traveling, since different towns have different rules

She said buyers should be prepared that other people may want the house the same house they have their eye on

As long as travel restrictions loosen, she hopes to take another group to buy houses this June.

She has plenty of advice for those looking to purchase their own 1 in Italy.

First, she said, read up on the place you're hoping to buy in. Other towns  like Bivona and Castropignano  are also advertising 1, but they all have different structures for payment and rules governing when renovations must be done and by whom.

At least two towns, Sambuca and Salemi, have auctioned homes starting at 1 each. Daniels said she knows of people who went to a town not realizing the homes were being auctioned, not sold directly.

She also advises buyers to give themselves at least a week to house-hunt and to be prepared that other people may want the house the same house they have their eye on.

'If you find the location you want, let them know you want to sign up for the house. There are lots of people searching for these homes, and you need to be ready,' she said, adding: 'Make sure you have options.'
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's children will develop a close bond with their cousin Archie Mountbatten-Windsor later on in their lives, a royal author has claimed.

Ingrid Seward, editor-in-chief of Majesty magazine and author of Prince Philip Revealed: A Man of His Century, suggested Prince George, seven, Princess Charlotte, six, and Prince Louis, three, are likely to build a relationship with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's son despite the apparent rift between their parents.

She told the Express that the cousins will value each other because it is 'difficult for royal family members to form friendships outside' the Firm.

Prince Harry, 36, and Meghan Markle, 39, live with their son Archie, one, in a $14.7million home in Santa Barbara, California.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's children (pictured) will develop a close bond with their cousin Archie Mountbatten-Windsor later on in their lives, a royal author has claimed.

The Duchess of Sussex with her baby son Archie Mountbatten-Windsor in September 2019 in South Africa

Ms Seward said: 'I am sure Diana would have wanted her sons' offspring to be friends as she would have known how difficult it is to form friendships outside the family as people cannot be trusted not to let some indiscretion slip out.

'But they may be friends with Archie when they are older. How cool to have a Californian cousin who is going to be such a dude as Archie. So exciting for them to go and stay with him too and vice versa.

'So they may not have the childhood bond, which they really don't need as they have lots of little friends, but they will really appreciate Archie later on in their lives.'

Ingrid's prediction follows Harry and William's meeting for the first time following the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's tell-all with Oprah Winfrey.

The Duke of Sussex returned to the UK to attend Prince Philip's funeral on April 17, after stepping down as a senior royal in January 2020 and subsequently having his titles stripped by the Queen.

Prince Harry met with his brother for the first time since the Oprah interview at the Duke of Edinburgh's funeral at Windsor Castle last month. Pictured left to right: Duchess and Duke of Cambridge, Duke and Duchess of Sussex

He flew back to California, where he now resides in a 11million Montecito mansion with Meghan, 39, who is pregnant with their second child, days later, missing the Queen's 95th birthday on April 21.

Charles, William and Harry were said to have talked after the interview but they were believed to have been 'unproductive'.

However, a spokesperson for the Sussex couple confirmed they privately wished Kate and William a happy 10th wedding anniversary last week.

William and Harry are expected to meet again in the summer when they unveil a new statue to Princess Diana at Kensington Palace.

Insiders hope the July 1 event - done to commemorate what would have been their mother's 60th birthday - will help mend their relationship.
An ex-convict feared he had fractured his penis during sex after he woke up with a massively swollen member.

But instead, the 41-year-old had just knocked the domino fragment that he shoved into his penis while in jail two years earlier.

The former drug addict carved a piece of domino into an arrow shape and inserted it between his skin and penile muscle to 'enhance sexual stimulation'.

Doctors in New York, who treated him, assumed he had snapped his penis because of how swollen it was.

Yet the unidentified man suffered no pain during sex, nor did he hear the dreaded pop sound  the hallmark sign of the grisly injury.

Medics felt a 1.5cm-long object buried in his penis, which prompted him to confess about what the lump actually was.

He revealed that during his time in prison he had used a pencil to push the domino fragment into his penis. Doctors noted his penis was severely infected and bruised.

An ex-convict who shoved a fragment of domino into his penis feared he had fractured his member during sex after he woke up with a massively swollen member

The medics who published the story in the Urology Case Reports journal revealed he was given antibiotics to fight off his bacterial infection.

Dr Jason Elyaguov and colleagues said he returned 18 months later for a follow-up and claimed he could have sex and urinate without trouble.

However, they said that he refused surgery to remove the fragment of domino  which was still buried underneath his skin.

Despite detailing the case in gory detail, the medics did not reveal how long he was in jail for, or what crime he had committed.

Dr Elyaguov and team boasted that the case highlighted how surgical intervention can be avoided.

Writing in the medical journal, they said the mans ordeal was unique for his long-term and benign tolerance.

They said the practice of inserting foreign bodies in the penis to enhance sexual stimulation was more common in Asian countries, specifically among gang members.

In the United States, most reports of self-implanted objects in the penis are found in the incarcerated population.

They said problems normally arise within weeks because the unsterilised objects can cause bacterial infections.
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Despite the Biden administration's celebration of 100 million Americans fully vaccinated against COVID-19, the U.S. may never reach the ultimate goal of herd immunity because 20 percent of Americans don't want the shots and variants have pushed the immunity threshold above 70 percent of the population.

As of Monday, 31.6 percent of Americans are inoculated against coronavirus. As vaccinations rise, daily infections are beginning to fall off, with the average number of daily cases declining nearly 15 percent to fewer than 50,000 a day in the past week.

The seven-day rolling average of daily infections is now the lowest it's been since October 10. Likely as a result of the rising vaccinations and falling caseload, daily deaths have fallen to fewer than 700 on average, holding steady there for the past week.

But stalling vaccinations threaten to reverse that progress. Daily shots have plummeted to an average of fewer than 2.5 million a day, down from the peak of nearly 3.2 million on April 11.

Herd immunity was once estimated to be around 70 percent, but with the emergence of more in infectious variants - including the now-dominant B117 variant first identified in the UK - the needle has likely moved, experts told the New York Times.

Now, north of 80 percent of Americans would likely need to be vaccinated against the virus to prevent resurgences.

That simply may not be possible, considering that between 20 and 30 percent of Americans are still vaccine hesitant.

'It is theoretically possible that we could get to about 90 percent vaccination coverage, but not super likely, I would say,' Dr Marc Lipsitch, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health epidemiologist, told the Times.

Wyoming has the highest rate of vaccine hesitancy in the country, with an estimated 32 percent of people saying they won't get the shots in at least 11 of the state's 23 counties.

The state also has the fourth lowest rate of vaccination, with 34.1 percent of its population having had one or more doses of Covid vaccines, and 28 percent fully vaccinated. Daily cases in Wyoming are holding steady at about 60 a day.

Mississippi lags furthest behind, with 31.1 percent of residents having had one or more doses and just 23.8 percent fully vaccinated. The prospects of its vaccination campaign look poor as well, as 30 percent of people in six of its counties are hesitant to get vaccinated.

Herd immunity may be especially hard to reach in these states, and hotspots for vaccine hesitancy could be the Achilles heel that allows coronavirus to continue to resurge, if the U.S. doesn't adopt a strategy to quickly quell emerging outbreaks.

About 20% of Americans are vaccine hesitant, with rates rising above 30% (dark blue) in parts of Mississippi, Wyoming and North Dakota. With the spread of variants, experts think the 80% of more of Americans need to be vaccinated to reach herd immunity - and that level may be impossible

President Biden even acknowledged the uncertainty around herd immunity, admitting that there is some debate over whether it means getting 70 percent or 90 percent of Americans vaccinated.

But he said that regardless, things would look 'very different' by the end of summer as vaccination campaigns continue, urging everyone to 'get vaccinated now' during a press briefing at Tidewater Community College in Norfolk, Virginia.

So does the U.S. need to reach herd immunity, or should we be content to have Covid stay with us as a milder seasonal virus?

That depends on who you ask and what metrics you choose.

Seasonal flu kills thousands of Americans a year. In the 2017-2018 season, one of the worst in recent years, some 810,000 people were hospitalized and 61,000 people - mostly elderly - died.

'We accept this and decide we're not going to wear masks and [many decide they] are not going to get a vaccine,' Mayo Clinic vaccinologist Dr Gregory Poland told DailyMail.com in a recent interview.

'That year, there something like 190 children' - 183 to be exact - 'died, most people who die are 60 and older. There's a certain ageism in all this.'

Dr Poland speculates that many Americans think, '"Why should I get a vaccine? I'm not going to die." No, but you are going to pass it on to to somebody who is going to get sick and die.

'But the answer in America is, "I'm not going to get sick and die." As [political satirist Walt Kelly said in his comic] Pogo, "We have met the enemy, and he is us."'

In Dr Poland's estimation, then, Americans' behavior suggests they don't think herd immunity is necessary, because most believe that the continued burden of Covid won't kill them.

That may be changing with the rising prevalence of variants, which seem more adept at infecting younger people, and making them sick.

What's more, vaccine hesitancy and vulnerability to becoming severely ill or dying from COVID-19 vary wildly across the massive U.S.

That suggests that two strategies may have to shift.

Rather than eradicating coronavirus altogether, the U.S. may have to adjust its aim to keeping hospitalizations and deaths to a minimum.

So far, high-level health officials like the White House Covid Response Team have said little to brace Americans for this possibility, focusing instead on elimination of the disease.

'There is more work to be done,' Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Director Dr Rochelle Walensky acknowledged during a White House press briefing last week.

'And with 100 million Americans fully vaccinated as of today, we continue to move ahead in our progress to end this pandemic.'

But 'ending' the pandemic may really look more like downgrading coronavirus to a seasonal, endemic virus, much like flu.

Every year, between 140,000 and 810,000 Americans are hospitalized for flu and between 12,000 and 61,000 die of the viral infection.

Some years are worse than others, but the flu season - between about October and march - is generally busier than periods for hospitals, but rarely overwhelming.

The last flu season was a notable exception. Increased hand-washing and mask-wearing are credited for all but eliminating flu in the U.S. during the 2020-2021 season.

But even the worst flu season paled in comparison to the COVID-19 pandemic. There have been 2.1 million hospital admissions for COVID-19 since August 1, 2020, according to data from the CDC.

Vaccination prevents 94 percent of COVID-19 hospitalizations, a study released last week by the CDC found.

So if 70 percent of the population had been vaccinated, the 2.1 million hospitalizations seen since August likely would have been reduced to fewer than 600,000.

That would be the equivalent of hospitalizations seen in a moderately bad flu season.

Ensuring that COVID-19 cases, most of which involve only mild or asymptomatic illness, don't translate into hospitalizations and deaths, could be the critical metric.

The challenge is that reaching 'herd immunity' across the nation, all at once, may be exceedingly difficult, if not impossible.

'Herd immunity requires a level of simultaneous immunity,' Mayo Clinic vaccinologist Dr Gregory Poland told DailyMail.com in a recent interview.

'If I could wave a magic wand and right now 85 percent of people could have immunity and retain immunity, problem solved, but that's not going to happen.'

Instead, the level of herd immunity will vary with place and time.

Already, Moderna has said it anticipates people will need a booster shot within a year as their immunity wanes.

And while 90 percent of one city, county, or state might get vaccinated within a period of a few months, another may never have nearly that much of its population immune.

'Disease transmission is local. If the coverage is 95 percent in the United States as a whole, but 70 percent in some small town, the virus doesnt care. It will make its way around the small town,' Dr Lipsitch told the Times.

President Biden's coronavirus advisers have hinted that they may soon begin to shift their vaccination campaign focus from broad to targeted, seeking to boost vaccinations in areas with low rates due to hesitancy or poor access.

That may mean identifying areas where two factors overlap: High rates of hesitancy and high rates of what the CDC calls 'social vulnerability.'

Areas of high social vulnerability are more likely to have large populations who are minorities, economically insecure, may not have stable housing, whose don't speak English as a first language and other factors linked to poorer outcomes from COVID-19.

CDC data shows that these two issues overlap in some parts of the U.S. - namely, the South.

The highest rates of vaccine hesitancy in the U.S. are estimated to be in Wyoming and North Dakota, in counties where 31 to 32 percent of people are unlikely to get the shots, according to the CDC's data from the end of March.

However, the risk of being hospitalized for or dying of COVID-19 is probably lower in these counties, because they score lower on the agency's social vulnerability index.

Of course, social vulnerability factors aren't the only ones that determine poor Covid outcomes, but they tend to be fairly predictive.

In six Mississippi counties, an estimated 30 percent of people are vaccine hesitant.

And the state has a high proportion of counties that rank high for social vulnerability, too.

Bolivar County, for example, scores a 0.97 (out of 1) for social vulnerability, and yet 30 percent of people there are hesitant to get vaccinated.

Some of the highest rates of social vulnerability (blue) for poor COVID-19 outcomes are in the South, including in Mississippi counties where 30% of people are estimated to be vaccine hesitant

Pockets like Bolivar could be devastated by coronavirus if it resurged, and even set off additional outbreaks - a risk that Dr Poland says could actually rise as daily infections fall following the initial burst of vaccinations.

'Here's what has happened and my prediction of what will happen: Every time we see a dip in cases, states' governors are going to relax restrictions,' he said.

'Every time we've done that we've had a surge.'

Mississippi was among the first states to lift its mask mandate and virtually all restrictions to slow the spread of coronavirus, announced on March 2.

The state saw a brief spike in new cases, but they've since leveled off at around 200 a day.

There have been 2.1 million hospital admissions for COVID-19 since August 1, 2020, and the U.S. is still seeing nearly 5,000 new admissions a day, though the number of new inpatients has fallen 11% in the past week. Keeping hospitalizations down may be the new goal of 'ending' the Covid pandemic, rather than eliminating the virus altogether

So far, the state itself has not identified a high proportion of cases of Covid variants like B117, which are more infectious and could push the herd immunity threshold up further.

But in its region - inclusive of Florida, Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, South Carolina, North Carolina and Tennessee - about two-thirds of cases are estimated to be caused by B117, according to the CDC's tracking.

In neighboring Georgia, 64 percent of all infections are thought to be caused by B117 - exceeded only by Michigan and Minnesota, where 70 and 68 percent, respectively, of cases are due to the variant.

The variants can easily spread over state lines, especially to neighboring communities.

Public health officials will be watching closely for new hotspots to emerge and those, some experts argue, should be where the vaccination campaign's energy is focused.

'What we want to do at the very least is get to a point where we have just really sporadic little flare-ups,' Dr Carl Bergstrom, an evolutionary biologist at the University of Washington, told the Times.

'That would be a very sensible target in this country where we have an excellent vaccine and the ability to deliver it.'

If outbreaks can be contained, the virus will have less opportunity to evolve into more infectious or dangerous strains, and may someday recede to something akin to seasonal flu or, better yet, just another seasonal cold, like most coronaviruses.
Walgreens and CVS have wasted more doses of COVID-19 vaccines than most U.S. state vaccination programs combined, a Kaiser Health News report finds.

Together, the pair of pharmacies had thrown out more than 128,000 doses - more than half of the total wasted vaccines doses in the U.S. - as of March, according to a Kaiser Health News investigation.

But perhaps more concerning, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) does not even have data on wasted doses from 15 states, meaning the agency could be blind to where precious vaccine is getting tossed out.

More than 30 states shared data on how much vaccine they knew had been wasted in their rollout efforts with KHN, revealing that at least 182,675 more doses had been tossed out, without the CDC's knowledge.

CVS and Walgreens had thrown out a collective 128,000 of the 182,000 total Covid vaccine doses wasted in the U.S. as of March 29, a Kaiser Health News report found. That's 14-times more than the greatest number wasted by a state - Texas, with 9,200 wasted doses

In total, the CDC's records show that 182,874 doses of Covid vaccine have been thrown out across the country, as of late March.

That's a small fraction of the 312.5 million delivered across the country, but not an insignificant number considering those doses could have fully vaccinated at least 91,000 people.

Covid vaccines are fragile, to be sure. Those made by Pfizer and Moderna have to be stored at extremely cold temperatures, and are unusable if they get too warm or spend more than a fewer hours defrosted without finding someone to give them to.

Their thin needles can break and any potential contamination renders doses unsafe to use.

But Walgreens and CVS in particular have been under fire over much of the shot-rollout for botching scheduling and moving too slowly.

Walgreens quietly ignored CDC and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidance on dosing schedules, giving both Moderna and Pfizer shots four weeks apart instead of giving the second Pfizer dose after the appropriate 21 days.

And some people had their second does appointments abruptly cancelled - sometimes after arriving on site - after the company realized patients were being booked for second doses of shots that the store they were meant to get them at did not have in stock.

Both companies were recruited by the federal government under the Trump administration to help administer vaccines to long term care facility residents and staff.

CVS and Walgreens have given out millions upon millions of doses of vaccines. The KHN analysis found that CVS was responsible for about half of the wasted doses (file)

Officials in places like Mississippi have called the partnership with the stores a 'fiasco,' blaming the companies for painfully slow rollouts during the first weeks of the national vaccination campaign.

CVS was responsible for nearly half of all wasted doses of Covid vaccines in the U.S. by the end of March.

Walgreens, meanwhile, threw out 21 percent of the nation's total ruined doses, according to the CDC data shared with KHN.

By comparison, Texas was the most wasteful single state, throwing out more than 9,200 doses allocated to it.

In total, nearly 75 percent of wasted doses were thrown out by pharmacies, while just 23 percent of tossed-out doses were wasted by states, territories and programs like the Indian Health Service's.

In its defense, Walgreens told KHN that it had only thrown out about half of a percent of the overall doses allocated to it through March 29.

That would equate to about 41,000 of the 3.2 million doses the pharmacy had administered by then - far fewer than the KHN analysis suggests the company has thrown out.

CVS, too, blamed the troubled rollout of shots to nursing homes through is federal government for 'nearly all' of the vaccine doses it wasted in its explanation to KHN.

Walgreens did not offer information about when or where doses allocated to it were wasted.

While the data on wasted doses isn't enough to corroborate or refute CVS's claim that the long-term care facility program led to most of the waste, the theory certainly wasn't refuted by health officials.

'To me, this ultimately just correlates with poor planning,' Dr Michael Wasserman, past president of the California Association of Long Term Care Medicine told KHN.

'CVS and Walgreens didnt have a clue when it came to interacting with nursing homes.

'Missed opportunities for vaccination in long-term care invariably results in deaths.'

Throwing out doses also wastes enormous amounts of money.

Each dose allocated to CVS or Walgreens cost the federal government about $40, suggesting that as much as $5.2 million was wasted on wasted vaccine doses.

That's a small drop in the bucket, compared to the billions upon billions the U.S. has spent on development and distribution of vaccines, but it nonetheless represents taxpayer money spent just for a shot to fail to get into an arm.
Jacqui Shaw used to be the life and soul of the party. Even a hysterectomy in 2001 aged 32, after having two sons, didnt slow her down.

She bounced back  running after her boys, Dan, now 28, and Sam, 24, and having fun with her beautician colleagues.

Those days are long gone. Jacqui, now 54, finds it hard to walk upstairs or do tasks such as ironing, and has pain all over her body 24/7, like a blanket of fog that never lifts.

A trip out near her home in Stoke-on-Trent with husband Mark, 54, who runs a window frame business, leaves her in agony for days.

My life is totally different from how it used to be, she says. Before lockdown, if we went out with friends and everyone got up to dance, it would kill me as I knew I couldnt because it would cause me too much pain.

Jacqui, now 54, finds it hard to walk upstairs or do tasks such as ironing, and has pain all over her body 24/7, like a blanket of fog that never lifts'

Jacquis life has been blighted by two operations  one in September 2008 and the other in January 2009  to fix a post-childbirth bowel prolapse, or enterocele.

The first, a laparoscopic ventral mesh rectopexy (LVMR), involved putting flexible mesh along the rectum and attaching it to the base of the spine with metal pins, to raise the bowel and hold it in place  like a sling.

This was followed by a STARR (stapled transanal rectal resection) procedure, in which a stapler-like device cuts away the slack in the rectal wall.

But in 2016, after her prolapse re-occurred, scans showed the upper section of the polyester mesh had rolled over and hardened so it looked like a brandy snap. The lower section was also hardening.

Jacqui had the mesh partially removed in 2016  and likens what remains inside her to a ticking time bomb.

I dont know when the mesh is going to get so hard it will erode completely through the walls of my rectum, she says.

Its already starting to happen, and protrudes into the vaginal vault which causes deep period-like pain.

Jacqui had the mesh partially removed in 2016  and likens what remains inside her to a ticking time bomb

Austin Obichere, a consultant colorectal surgeon in London, says, in some cases, the mesh incorporates with the rectal wall and you find one composite combination of the mesh and the rectum.

The mesh can also erode tissue from the rectum to the vaginal wall and create a passage such that these women are passing poo into their vaginas. Its extremely distressing for them. The complications of mesh rectopexy can be extremely serious.

Surgical mesh  also known as tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) or transobturator tape (TOT) was widely used in the 2000s to treat pelvic organ prolapse, urinary incontinence and rectal prolapse.

But its use has been mired in controversy, with some women suffering terrible pain, chronic infection and nerve damage as the implants disintegrate inside them, slicing into the soft tissue they were meant to hold in place.

Following pressure from campaigners, backed by Good Health, vaginal mesh operations were suspended in 2018 in England and, last July, an independent review by former junior health minister Baroness Julia Cumberlege recommended the establishment of seven specialist regional mesh centres to provide comprehensive treatment, care and advice for those affected by implanted mesh.

Crucially for Jacqui, Baroness Cumberlege suggested the centres could treat ventral rectopexy patients alongside those whod had the more common vaginal mesh surgery. However, Good Health can reveal that while seven have been running since April 1, they are solely for those with mesh inserted for urinary incontinence and vaginal prolapse.

Labour MP Emma Hardy, co-chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Surgical Mesh, says rectopexy mesh-injured patients are the forgotten mesh victims.

Jacquis problems began after ventouse deliveries of both her sons (in 1992 and 1996) led to a vaginal prolapse and hysterectomy in 2001. In 2007, she developed a bulge in the perineum area which caused bowel problems.

Her GP referred her to a consultant who referred her on to a surgeon. I just felt really lucky the surgeon would be able to fix me, she says. I was told the surgery would be gold standard.

But when Jacqui woke from her operation, the bulge was still there. The surgeon recommended a tweak, and four months later she had the STARR procedure.

The operation was successful in that the bulge was gone, says Jacqui. Id been warned I might have some urgency to have a bowel movement, but it lasted 24/7. It took about 12 months to settle to a point where I knew how to manage the urges.

Over the next four years, Jacqui began to suffer the same symptoms many women who had TVT mesh report  pins and needles, numbness in limbs and back pain.

Her underactive thyroid symptoms also worsened  everything was falling apart, she says. But it wasnt until her prolapse returned, six years after her last operation, that alarm bells started to ring.

She saw her consultant, who confirmed the mesh had failed and offered to add a new mesh. But this meant, says Jacqui, Id have to sign to say I accepted I may wake up with a stoma. This is an opening in the abdomen to allow faeces to be diverted into a colostomy bag.

Suspecting all her unexplained symptoms might be mesh-related, Jacqui turned to the internet, finding Sling the Mesh, a support and pressure group for women with mesh complications, and read about consultant urogynaecologist Sohier Elneil, and saw her for a second opinion in London.

After an internal investigation Ms Elneil told Jacqui that the top part of the mesh was rolled up and rock hard. Jacqui adds: It was on my right-hand side, where I had a huge pulling pain that made me walk with a stoop.

She said it looked like the mesh had been inadvertently stapled into the rectum and anus during the STARR procedure. Removing the mesh would mean cutting out the rectum. The mesh had also stuck to her right ovary, fallopian tube and bladder. I was shell-shocked, says Jacqui.

Ms Elneil removed some mesh, which helped alleviate the pulling sensation, but it couldnt all be taken out without risking the need for a stoma. Four years on, Jacqui is still in daily pain and on painkillers.

The bulge is still there and the only way to get rid of it is to have the rest of my mesh removed, she says. Id lose what is left of my rectum and end up with a permanent stoma. Im terrified when I go to the loo and my sex life is non-existent.

The complication rate for vaginal and pelvic mesh is estimated to be 9.8 per cent. But when it comes to rectal mesh operations, no one knows exactly how many operations have been carried out or the complication rate.

In 2019, the Healthcare Quality Improvement Partnership, an independent body that aims to improve health outcomes, estimated that 750 mesh rectopexies, which were never banned, have been carried out each year in the UK since the late 2000s.

The Pelvic Floor Society of surgeons puts the rectopexy mesh complication rate at 1 per cent, but campaigners think its higher.

Kath Sansom, of Sling the Mesh, says: All mesh is bad, but with most types they have a vague idea of insertion rates; but with rectopexy not at all.

Sling the Mesh fought to have rectopexies included in the review, but now they are saying rectopexy cant be part of the specialist centres. To know these women have no hope is upsetting.

Ms Elneil, adds: The advantage of the specialist mesh centres is that they have the colorectal surgeon, the urogynaecologist, the urologist, the chronic pain specialist, the physiotherapist.

Mesh rectopexy patients present such complex, myriad symptoms, so they need all those people to help them.

Jacqui is furious she cannot get help from a new specialist centre.

My mesh is eroding and its crippling, but I am now in limbo.

An NHS spokesman said: NHS England commissions services for women for mesh removal related to vaginal and urinary prolapse and is currently considering the commissioning of care and support for people who experience complications in the use of mesh in rectopexy.
Barely a day goes by without type 2 diabetes hitting the headlines. Last week alone there were two major stories about the condition.

A study from French researchers showed that if you develop type 2 in middle age, it doubles your risk of getting dementia by the age of 70.

Another study, which looked at data from 200,000 Britons, found that it takes more than two years on average for patients to be diagnosed with type 2.

We read a lot about the growing type 2 diabetes epidemic and its devastating effect on health  its something Ive witnessed with growing alarm over my 44-year medical career as a diabetes specialist and research scientist.

Of these two women, how can the woman on the left be more at risk of type 2 diabetes? A size 12 woman is pictured left while a size 18 woman is pictured right. The answer is because the woman on the left is over her personal fat threshold (no, thats not your BMI)

Not only is this putting a huge strain on the NHS, but it is having a terrible impact on peoples lives.

Put simply, diabetes just means the level of sugar in the blood is too high. This doesnt sound too bad, does it?

But actually its disastrous, as over time this damages the delicate blood vessels that supply food and oxygen to all parts of the body, leading to complications such as blindness and numbness.

The latter is particularly worrying in the feet and legs because the lack of feeling prevents the bodys normal warning sign of trouble, such as pain, so patients may not notice that a wound, infection and then ulcers have set in  in the UK today about 170 amputations are performed every week because of diabetes.

Other complications include kidney problems  diabetes accounts for around half of patients needing kidney dialysis  and a higher risk of heart attack and stroke.

Younger people worse affected by type 2

Unlike some illnesses where your youth may be on your side, type 2 diabetes puts people in their 20s or 30s at far greater risk of serious trouble (probably because younger tissues are more sensitive to high sugar levels). The younger you are, the worse the effects of type 2.

As if diabetes wasnt bad enough already, if you have type 2, youre almost seven times more likely to die from Covid-19 if you catch the virus. While the exact causes are not known, high sugar levels make blood clots more likely and thats a problem with Covid.

The good news, as I outline in my new book, is that you can avoid such bleak outcomes. The key is to strip fat from the liver and pancreas.

If you asked most people whats behind the type 2 epidemic, theyd probably answer obesity. In fact, whatever you may have read, type 2 diabetes has little to do with obesity, as defined in medical terms  which is a body mass index (BMI) of greater than 30. Using this definition, only one in two developing type 2 diabetes is actually obese. Even among overweight people, three out of four do not have the disease.

Unlike some illnesses where your youth may be on your side, type 2 diabetes puts people in their 20s or 30s at far greater risk of serious trouble (probably because younger tissues are more sensitive to high sugar levels)

What is true is that everyone with type 2 diabetes is carrying more weight than their body can cope with. In other words, the problem is not the number of very, very heavy people: its the vast majority of us who are heavier than is ideal.

The trouble is that many regard themselves as having a normal weight because they look similar to other people of the same age.

But the key is that they weigh more than they did in their 20s (as growth has stopped by the early 20s, this weight is a rough yardstick of an ideal weight). And where that extra fat ends up. As my team at Newcastle University and I have discovered, its what this fat does in the pancreas that is particularly significant.

The pancreas, which is hidden deep behind your stomach, is the most important organ in diabetes, and thanks to our groundbreaking work, we know that losing weight can transform its health.

Losing weight helps (ironically, perhaps) by getting the pancreas to fill out, as the incredible pictures on this page show.

The trouble is that many regard themselves as having a normal weight because they look similar to other people of the same age, writes Roy Taylor, who is Professor of Medicine and Metabolism at Newcastle University

In people with diabetes, the pancreas is small and ragged-looking. We spent years looking at the pancreas using special MRI scans. But we didnt realise that the small, ragged-looking thing on our scans was abnormal until we started to look at people without type 2.

We then discovered that a healthy pancreas is nice and plump. So did type 2 happen in people born with poorly developed pancreases, or did the diabetes cause the pancreas to shrink?

Its the latter, and the amazing thing is that by losing weight and getting rid of diabetes, you can plump up the pancreas. Weve shown that the pancreas can grow back to normal size once a person loses weight and returns to normal blood sugar control  it takes about two years. And these pictures are the proof, confirmation that the damage can be undone.

This discovery about the pancreas is the latest in a number weve made about type 2 diabetes over the past decade or so. One of the most exciting came in 2011, when we were able to show that contrary to established opinion, you werent stuck with life-limiting type 2 diabetes, but it was possible to reverse it.

Using sophisticated MRI scans we were able to identify the cause of type 2 diabetes  wed found that people with type 2 had excess fat in both the liver and the pancreas, far more than in people without diabetes, even if they were overweight.

We also showed excess sugar in the blood is converted to fat, which is stored around the body, including in and around the organs.

Proof you can reverse type 2 diabetes The pancreas is the most important organ in diabetes, and these two extraordinary scans of the same patient highlight the damage that type 2 causes  but also prove that this damage, and type 2 diabetes  can be reversed by losing weight. The patient, who is in his early 50s, weighed just under 100kg (over 15 st) and had type 2 diabetes  for which he was taking medication  when the before scan was done. It looks as if there are holes in the pancreas: these are areas where the pancreas has shrunk as a result of his diabetes. The after image was done two years later. The patient weighed about 10kg lighter, his blood sugar levels were normal, so he was no longer on medication because he didnt have diabetes. This is how a healthy pancreas should look. Advertisement

Then I came across research that showed losing weight rapidly after weight-loss surgery can reverse high blood sugar levels, and strip the liver of that fat. I decided to replicate this effect using a very low-calorie plan to trigger rapid weight loss in a short period.

The results of our study with type 2 patients were stunning  within seven days their blood sugar levels had dropped to normal. Among those who contacted me after our results were published in 2011 were people with type 2 diabetes who had a normal BMI  they said that after losing weight using our plan, their blood sugar levels had returned to normal, too.

This is when I hit upon the personal fat threshold (PFT) concept  basically, this means that we all have our own tolerance for weight gain. And its your PFT that determines if youll get type 2.

Let me explain using the example of a patient Ive advised but whose story is typical of many. Harry, who was in his 40s, looked slim and his BMI was 24, in the normal weight range, and yet he developed type 2  why?

The clue was that 20 years or so before he was diagnosed, Harry had been slimmer and since then hed increased his BMI by about three units. Hed become too heavy for his own body  and through no fault of his own, he was more susceptible to just a moderate amount of fat.

And when he lost weight  just under 2st (12kg), getting his BMI down to 21  he reversed his diabetes. Some heavy people, thanks to their genes, have apparently endless storage capacity  so while they acquire more and more fat, although it may look excessive, it is stored safely, rather than spilling over into the liver and then the pancreas.

Not everyone who steadily puts on weight during their adult life will develop type 2 diabetes. Some people are much more susceptible. What is certain, though, is that if you have type 2, youve become too heavy for your body.

Falling into the weight gain trap

Food is used to fuel the body. And a healthy body is highly efficient at getting the most out of the food it receives.

After you finish a meal, what you have eaten is stored away to provide a supply of sugar and fat.

Energy from these stores is needed throughout the day and night. And in normal health, both of these processes  the storage of food and its later use  are tightly controlled. The secret of how this happens lies in the amazing hormone insulin.

Insulin is made in the pancreas. Quietly going about its business, it puts the right amount of insulin into the blood minute by minute.

Normally, as soon as you take your first mouthful of any food, your body starts to break it down. All the starchy food is turned into sugar and that rapidly gets into the blood.

For instance, from an ordinary helping of pasta, about 30 teaspoonfuls of sugar are released  30 spoonfuls!

Your body will get almost the same effect from eating the pasta or the sugar, except for slight differences in the speed at which it gets into the blood.

To deal with this sudden rush of sugar, your pancreas normally makes lots of insulin, which allows the body to use the sugar or store it away.

So why do things start going wrong?

Your remarkable body can cope with any mix of foods, but there is one thing that it may struggle with: a little too much food too often over many years.

It can be difficult to imagine what an extra tiny amount each day adds up to over time, but, to give you an idea, an extra small apple every day, for instance, will add around 4 lb to your weight in a year. Which means that ten years later you will be 40lb heavier! That is 2 st 12 lb (or 18kg).

If even an apple can make me put on weight, you may ask, why should I bother making healthy choices?

Thats because all foods are not equal. Certain types of food are more satisfying, and will keep you feeling full for longer, whereas others with the same calorie content are more rapidly absorbed by the body, after which you will quickly feel hungry again.

So the type of food you eat affects the amount you eat overall. For instance, its easy to see that an additional two squares of milk chocolate (similar calorie count) are far more likely to slip down than an apple every day. Similarly, if you eat a ready meal (likely to have lots of added sugar), you will probably feel hungry an hour or so after, and might eat more.

But a meal of meat and plenty of fibrous vegetables which has the same calories as that ready meal will leave you feeling satisfied for much longer and stop you snacking.

Three steps to better health For most people its the same, whether you weigh 12 st or 24 st: as a rule of thumb, losing 2 st (about 15 kg) will be sufficient to take you below your personal fat threshold, strip the fat from your organs and return your blood sugar to normal. If you weigh less than 12 st and have type 2, its better to think about losing about 10 per cent of your body weight. The approach we developed at Newcastle University to reverse type 2 is simple: 1. Rapid weight loss (eight weeks) This is very different from the standard, steady-as-you-go approach and while the effect of removing fat from the liver and pancreas is the same whether weight loss is over two months or 12, losing the weight quickly is easier. Youll have 700 to 800 calories a day  replacing a meal with a complete nutrition drink is the easiest option (find them in supermarkets and chemists). Do discuss your plans with your doctor in advance. 2. Return to normal eating (four weeks) WE suggest starting by replacing your evening shake with a small meal; after two weeks, replace your lunch shake with another small meal, then two weeks later add in breakfast and stop all shakes (each meal is 400 to 500 calories). 3. Keep the weight down long term As a rough guide, youll need only three-quarters of the calories you used to eat. For details for the three steps, see my new book. Advertisement

When you eat more than your body needs, it has to find somewhere to store the extra fat. To begin with, fat will build up under the skin. It can be stored there safely  up to a point.

Then it will start spilling over into the organs of the body, particularly the liver and the pancreas. And this is where it causes type 2 diabetes  in those people susceptible to it.

Most people can tolerate too much fat in the pancreas, and never get type 2 diabetes. But if your pancreas happens to be less able to cope with fat, then you will run into trouble. It is the luck of the draw, depending on which genes you inherited.

This is the major problem of diabetes. It is the failure to make enough insulin at the right time. To make matters worse, in type 2 even the insulin your pancreas does make does not work so well. This is called insulin resistance.

The secret life of your pancreas

And so we come back to the pancreas, where it all starts. Until recently, all we knew about this hand-sized organ came from looking at it after death or surgery to remove it.

But then, one day in 2014, one of my team, Dr Mavin Macauley, made the amazing discovery I referred to earlier, when he scanned people without diabetes and discovered their lovely plump, smooth pancreases. Eureka!

Even now, very few specialists in diabetes know that a person who has type 2 diabetes has a shrunken pancreas. It is only just beginning to be talked about, and comes as a surprise to many doctors.

Adapted from Your Simple Guide To Reversing Type 2 Diabetes by Professor Roy Taylor, published on May 6 by Short Books at 8.99.  Professor Roy Taylor 2021.

To order a copy for 7.91 (offer valid to May 11, 2021, with free UK P&P on orders over 20), visit mailshop.co.uk/books or call 020 3308 9193.
U.S. regulators are expected green light Pfizer's Covid vaccine to be given to teenagers between ages 12 and 15 as early as the end of this week, officials told the New York Times.

The shot was authorized for people ages 16 and up in December, and Pfizer has been in trials for teens since October of last year.

Expanding the trial to younger teenagers will make about 13 million additional Americans eligible for vaccination, a step that some see as critical to reaching herd immunity and improving safety as children return to school.

Others, however, have questioned whether vaccinating children is worth the risk, considering that only 471 children under age 18 have died of COVID-19, accounting for 0.1 percent of all U.S. coronavirus fatalities.

Authorization could be given as early as the end of this week, and is expected by early next week.

U.S. regulators are expected green light Pfizer's Covid vaccine to be given to teenagers between ages 12 and 15 as early as the end of this week, officials told the New York Times

If Pfizer's shot gets the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) greenlight for younger teens, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will most likely meet the next day and review findings from Pfizer's trial.

The agency will then recommend whether or not it believes the vaccine is safe and effective for ages 12 to 15.

Pfizer announced the results of its adolescent trial on March 31.

The firm's study of 2,260 volunteers found it prevented 100 percent of severe illnesses and deaths from COVID-19 among the teenagers.

In fact, the children showed stronger immune responses to the shot than did the 16- to 25-year-old group Pfizer had previously tested its vaccine in.

A press release about the result makes no mention of concerning side effects among teenages, but regulators will comb over the data to be sure there are no red flags before okaying the shot for teens.

For some parents who were nervous about their kids returning to school, the shot can't come soon enough.

Nearly half of U.S. schools were back to fully in person learning by March 23, according to a Washington Post analysis.

But the CDC has stated in no uncertain terms that neither teachers nor students need to be vaccinated in order to return safely to school.

Despite that recommendation, the Biden administration has continued to urge states to prioritize vaccinating teachers, ahead of authorization for vaccinations to be administered to the majority of school-age children.
The London stock market has for generations played host to some of the biggest and best-known companies in the world.

Yet the UK cannot boast a single name in the superleague of the world's top 20 most valuable businesses, which were ranked in the FT last week. This should be a concern to millions of savers.

Putting money into the FTSE 100 index or a tracker fund has been considered a gold-plated option for British small investors  now it has a distinct air of second division.

Downward spiral?: Putting money into the FTSE 100 index or a tracker fund has been considered a gold-plated option - now it has a distinct air of second division

Stashed as it is with 'old economy' banks, oil companies and mining conglomerates, the Footsie no longer looks a good choice for a stake in the new world order.

The blue chip index is up by more than 18 per cent over the past year. But the popular Scottish Mortgage investment trust, heavy in US tech stocks, has increased by more than 90 per cent over the same period  and that is after some recent setbacks.

The pandemic threatens to make the UK's leading share index look even more outmoded. Post-Covid, there is likely to be even more of a tilt towards fintech, green tech and online shopping, all of which are fairly conspicuous by their absence.

The lumbering UK banks, with their legacy branch networks, look unappetising, as do the oil giants, BP and Shell, which are re-inventing on greener lines. Miners have bounced back because of the demand for commodities but they also face multiple challenges on the now all-important environmental, social and governance front. The UK's most valuable listed business is Anglo-Dutch consumer goods giant Unilever. Soberingly, we almost lost that company because it wanted to shift its primary listing away from London to Rotterdam.

One of the motivations was that, after fighting off a hostile takeover from Kraft Heinz, the management wanted greater protection from unwanted bidders.

It is a mercy the move never happened, as it would have deprived the FTSE of one of its best constituents. Only a campaign prevented the defection.

Apple, the world's biggest company, is worth around 1.6trillion, which dwarfs Unilever at 111billion and is not far behind the entire market cap of the FTSE 100 of around 1.86trillion.

There is no inherent reason the UK shouldn't create its own trillion dollar tech businesses. Brainpower at Cambridge can rival anything at Stanford in California. The fenland town plays host to a thriving community of innovative businesses including Alphawave, an Anglo-Canadian chip developer planning a London float, which intends to set up a research centre nearby.

Cambridge is also home to Darktrace, which made its debut last week and got off to a flying start. AstraZeneca, our second largest company by market value, has research facilities there too.

A review by Lord Hill has looked at ways of attracting more tech listings. That may help, but there is another, possibly bigger problem as the Unilever experience shows.

It is too easy for UK listed businesses to be picked off by predators. Arm Holdings, another Cambridge company and the closest thing the UK had to a tech champion, was sold to Softbank of Japan in 2016. Softbank presented as a long-term investor but wants to sell on to Nvidia of the US.

That deal will now be examined by the Government, but even so, managements are often too eager to roll over to the first plausible bidder who comes their way.
Ever since the surge in cryptocurrency wealth, it has been necessary to declare profits from such assets to HMRC for tax purposes.

And anyone who finds themselves under investigation for suspected tax irregularities by HM Revenue & Customs has always had to declare all their assets.

But HMRC is now going a step further, and explicitly including a section on cryptocurrency declarations in its updated 'Statement of Assets' form.

No hiding: HMRC can demand to see details of all assets held, including cryptocurrency

An HMRC spokesperson said: 'The majority of individuals and businesses pay the tax that is due  however there remains a determined minority who refuse to play by the rules.

'We take robust action to make sure that everyone pays the tax due  from individuals operating in the hidden economy through to action against sophisticated organised crime groups, and complex investigations into offshore structures used to hide earnings and other assets.'

Helen Thornley, a technical officer at the Association of Taxation Technicians, told This is Money she thinks the move to explicitly include crypto assets in the form 'makes sense'. She said it was important people were given a 'prompt' to remember to declare all assets like Bitcoin.

Spell it out: Crypotassets are now explicitly listed in HMRC's updated Statement of Assets form, but such assets have always had to be declared when required

HMRC stressed that the Statement of Assets form has always required people to detail a complete account of all assets, wherever they are in the world and however they are held. Now, however, crypto-assets will be clearly and explicitly listed among others to ensure there can be no ambiguity.

Other assets that have been added to the updated declaration form include, electronic money accounts, online payment platform accounts, electronic wallets, financial technology accounts, community and informal banking accounts, accounts connected to value transfer systems, money service business accounts, foreign exchange accounts and electronic accounts.

Anyone who is required to submit details of their assets to HMRC can expect everything they put down to be checked. Forensic work means any assets not declared can also be tracked down. 'People have to be really careful about filling in forms like this properly as they can be prosecuted if they do not', tax expert Ms Thornley told This is Money.

Growing popularity: Bitcoin has attracted marked interest from investors in recent years

The latest form updates include specific references to, for instance, Black Market Pesos. According to accounting firm UHY Hacker Young this is 'a system commonly used by Mexican and Colombian drug cartels, which converts drug sale revenues in the US and Europe to local currencies without the money having to cross a border.'

The updated form also covers things like Hundi, which UHY Hacker Young says, is 'an Indian system of credit notes that has existed since the 12th century and is still used by merchants and Hawala, a similar money transfer system common in the Middle East and Africa.'

Fei chien, a trust-based money transfer system commonly used in Chinas hidden financial system, is also explicitly listed.

David Jones, a director at UHY Hacker Young, said that, in his view: 'HMRC suspects that an increasing amount of hidden wealth is slipping through its fingers thanks to the rise of cryptocurrencies and other unsanctioned money transfer systems. This demand for information is an important step in HMRCs fight-back against that.

'The initiative comes hand in hand with HMRCs publication of its new Cryptoassets Manual. A defence of ignorance of the law in this booming sector will no longer wash with the taxman.

'Some assets like Black Market Pesos are almost exclusively used by organised crime but criminal proceeds flow through relatively mainstream assets like Bitcoin at a rate that some find alarming. For example, cybercriminals overseas take virtually all of their ransom payments in Bitcoin to avoid detection.

'While criminals can still choose to not declare these assets, doing so gives HMRC another opportunity to bring criminal charges against them if their forensic work finds a hidden Bitcoin wallet.'
AATS Foundation scholarships shown to support success in academic surgery

Boston, MA (May 2, 2021) - A new study, presented today at the AATS 101st Annual Meeting, finds that AATS Foundation fellowships support success in academic surgery career tracks. The AATS Foundation has two primary grant funding mechanisms: the AATS Foundation Scholarship and the Surgical Investigator Award. The study looked at publications, citations, NIH funding, and leadership position of awardees, among other factors.

Results show that recipients of both the AATS Surgical Investigator award and the Foundation Scholarship demonstrate sustained scholarship with peer reviewed publications and a high rate of receiving one or more NIH grants. The AATS grants place individuals on a career path for academic surgery with impressive scholastic contributions and ascending to leadership positions.

The AATS Foundation Grant has been awarded to 42 individuals. Awardees have a median of 4,733 citations. During the four-year window following the award, awardees published a median of 23 manuscripts, with a median of 364 citations. Subsequent NIH grant funding was attained by 44 percent of awardees, who al; secured 2-3 additional NIH grants. The majority of awardees - 89 percent - have been promoted, with most holding either a clinical directorship or a division chief position.

The Surgical Investigator award has been awarded to 24 surgeons. In the four-year window since the grant was awarded, recipients generated a media of 37 publications with a media of 632 citations. 26 percent secured NIH funding, of which all attained second and third NIH grants. Half of the awardees obtained an academic promotion.

"There's a narrative within academic medicine that surgery is too time consuming to allow for research, and the data here shows that there are real opportunities for surgical researchers that yield results," said Edgar Aranga-Michel, MD/PhD candidate at University of Pittsburgh - CMU. "The AATS fellowships are a success factor that support a career in academic surgery.

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This story has been published on: 2021-05-02. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Latin America Records High COVID-19 Fatalities

Latin America constitutes the world's COVID-19 fatalities by 25%. Hospitals all over the country are battling a new burnout because of the sweeping COVID-19 infections.

People seeking treatment at hospitals are at their highest in Costa Rica. Guatemala's hospitals are already overflowing with patients, while several chief Colombian cities no longer have vacancies.

As the Coronavirus afflicts people globally, one in every four fatalities in the world was in South America. Just last week, 1.4 million new cases were confirmed in the region, not to mention the 36,000 people who died because of the virus.

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Countries with the highest infection include Argentina, Bolivia, Ecuador, Peru, and Uruguay. These regions are in new dissemination peaks, extreme increase in infection, as well as flooded health service.

Ciro Ugarte said, "In Colombia, infections could soon reach the record levels of January, and ICUs and hospitals are reaching their limit in Bogota and Medellin." Ugarte is the director of Sanitary Emergencies of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO).

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are more than 150 million confirmed cases and 3.1 million death all over the world. Regardless of forcing retardations in daily contagions in Europe and North America, these persist in being the regions most affected by the pandemic. The United States has reported over 61 million cases, Europe, on the other hand, has reached 51 million infections.

Latin America has 28.5 million cases and 910,000 confirmed deaths. The US remains the worst impacted country in the world, with 32.2 million cases and over 575,000 fatalities. India follows with 18.7 million cases and 208,000 deaths. Next is Brazil, as the most affected country in South America, with 14.6 million cases and 403,000 fatalities.

Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro faces a government investigation regarding how he handles the pandemic. Last week, over 317 million vaccine jabs were administered throughout 49 countries and region's territories.

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We are honored to host the Commander-in-Chief as we celebrate the accomplishments of the Class of 2021  the future leaders of the U.S. Coast Guard, Academy Superintendent Rear Adm. Bill Kelly said in a statement. It will be a memorable event for our community, as well as a great opportunity to showcase the Academy and the city of New London on a national stage.
US investor Warren Buffett has branded the Spac boom 'a killer' as he criticised greedy City advisers.

The 90-year-old became the latest to slam Spacs  or Special Purpose Acquisition Companies  at the weekend shareholder meeting of his company Berkshire Hathaway.

Spacs, also known as 'blank cheque companies', are empty firms which list on the stock market, raising millions from investors with the purpose of buying an existing company.

Raising concerns: Warren Buffett became the latest to slam Special Purpose Acquisition Companies

Usually led by a prominent investor, they have become increasingly popular in the aftermath of the pandemic.

'It's a killer,' said Buffett, explaining that the amount of money being funnelled into Spacs meant they now had the edge over companies like his when deal-making.

Buffett's right-hand man Charlie Munger said many City firms and hotshot investors launching Spacs were not buying companies 'because it's a good investment. They're buying it because the adviser gets a fee. And of course, the more of that you get, the sillier your civilisation is getting'.

Munger said the boom also indicated a 'moral failing' because City advisers were making 'easy money'.

He added: 'I think we have a lot to be ashamed of in current conditions.'
Warren Buffett said Robinhood encourages gambling-style behaviour

Trading app Robinhood has hit back at Warren Buffett after the revered investor accused it of encouraging gambling-style behaviour.

At the shareholder meeting of his firm Berkshire Hathaway on Saturday, Buffett said Robinhood had set out to attract users who were gambling on short-term moves, rather than making long-term investment decisions.

But Robinhood spokesman Jacqueline Ortiz Ramsay said: The old guard doesnt want average Americans to have a seat at the Wall Street table so they resort to insults.
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Marilyn Manson's first love fears she broke his heart and turned him into a 'monster', revealing the tortured poems he wrote for her and how he fantasized about fathering her child.

The woman, who asked to be named only as Rachelle, spoke exclusively to DailyMail.com about her two years as girlfriend to Manson in the 1980s, beginning when he was just 18, and shared copies of his typewriter-written love  and hate  poetry.

Rachelle met him in 1987 when she was a 22-year-old model and he was still only known as Brian Warner, before he formed a band and adopted the dark and twisted persona of Marilyn Manson.

She described him as shy, quiet and immature; almost unrecognizable as the man now under police investigation for domestic violence and accused of the sadistic abuse of several of his former partners.

On Friday, actress Esme Bianco filed a lawsuit against Manson accusing him of raping, sexually assaulting and beating her, and coercing her using drugs. Manson denied the claims.

Marilyn Manson's first love, who asked to be named only as Rachelle, spoke to DailyMail.com about her two years as Manson's girlfriend in the 1980s. The pair are pictured together when she was 22 and he was just 18

Rachelle met him in 1987 when she was a 22-year-old model and described him as shy, quiet and immature - before he formed a band and adopted the dark and twisted persona of Marilyn Manson

Rachelle tells how she and Warner quickly fell into an intense relationship, with Warner writing her romantic and intensely emotional poems from the blacked-out bedroom of his parents' apartment near Boca Raton, Florida.

Rachelle (pictured in the 80s) said she fears she turned Manson - real name Brian Warner - into a 'monster' after breaking his heart

But when his deep insecurities, 'immaturity' and possessiveness became too much she split with the would-be rock star, she said.

Rachelle, now 55, said Warner was devastated by the break-up and her friends accused her of breaking his heart.

She said he left tortured poems on her car and in a matter of months had totally transformed, embracing the goth fashion, piercings and tattoos that his fans now know him by.

Rachelle is even immortalized in his autobiography, in which Warner suggested he could have fathered a child with her  a claim she denies.

In the 1998 memoir, The Long Road Out of Hell, Warner described Rachelle as 'cold-hearted, gorgeous and manipulative' and said she 'left me with a scar deeper than any I've since inflicted on myself' and that their break-up led to him trying 'to close myself off emotionally to the world and trust no one'.

He also says their split drove him to claw his way to stardom.

'It was partly out of anger and revenge that I wanted to get famous and make her regret dumping me,' he wrote.

The Florida mother said she first laid eyes on Warner when she was 22, one night in late 1987 at the Reunion Room, a New Wave club in Fort Lauderdale.

'I noticed him right away,' she told DailyMail.com. 'He had blond hair and was wearing dark clothing and a dark jacket. He just reminded me of kind of a hipster. He had beads in different colors he wore around his neck. He was really tall, very thin and was just looking around like he was out of place.

'He approached me and we started to talk. We exchanged phone numbers. I don't think either of us had anything to drink. He told me he was of legal age to be in a club, he never told me his age.'

His poetry referred to his clothes 'drenched in narcotic blood', and he wrote 'I am now a mass of f***ing hate / Live or die I really don't care at this / point'

Rachelle shared with DailyMail.com tortured poems Manson wrote for her when he was just 18. 'Your appearance into my life has stung the very depth of my soul. / My shroud of security destroyed leaving / nothing but splinters of bitter feelings / and revolting lies,' he wrote. 'Your unfaithful and dismal part in this / life has ripped out the very center of my being'

Rachelle said the then-community college journalism student wooed her with conversations about language, poetry and outer space. But when she began dating him she was surprised to find he was a teenager living in his parents' apartment near Boca Raton.

'I never saw anyone there, and he never told me he lived with his friends. But I found it weird when I found out he was living with his parents,' she said. 'His father would leave the keys and $20 like 'here's your allowance'.'

Rachelle said Warner would invite her over when the house was empty, and would tell her to face the other way while he furiously typed out love poetry on a clunking typewriter by candlelight.

'We sat / The candles spoke idly in flames / and our eyes in whispers / and as the wax melted / so did our hearts, / our souls / fusing forever,' one poem read.

'He'd like to see my reaction when I looked at it,' Rachelle said. 'Romance for us was writing. Being together and writing, and other things that you do, holding hands, hugging, kissing.'

All deeply passionate, some of the dashed-off poems were also steamy and erotic.

'Her knuckles are tight and white / with fistfulls of me / in either hand / And somewhere in / the distance below us / (some other place, other time) / Her clothes lie / crumpled in a / rainbow mass,' the typewritten note said.

'Kiss my face / and kiss my face / Your legs glide against my chest / and wrap around my waist / They're hosed in lace. / Tear up my face / Your lips tear me up / like crepe / And you go down / against my neck, / your lashes / crawling across my skin like / spiders. / And I'm so deep inside / Too deep / And / down / I think I could drown.'

Rachelle said she had been the victim of assault at a young age, but said that during their relationship Warner was 'loving' and 'affectionate'.

'He was wonderful. He was very kind to me, loving, very affectionate. There was nothing that would have struck me as scary or uncomfortable,' she said. 'I was very comfortable with him.'

Parents across America might pale now at the thought of their daughter dating a man many consider to be the devil incarnate.

But Rachelle's God-fearing mother had only one complaint at the time: 'She just didn't like the fact he wasn't Jewish.'

Rachelle said Warner would invite her over when the house was empty, and would tell her to face the other way while he furiously typed out love poetry on a clunking typewriter by candlelight. 'We sat / The candles spoke idly in flames / and our eyes in whispers / and as the wax melted / so did our hearts, / our souls / fusing forever,' one poem read

Marilyn Manson poses for photos on a school playground in 1990 in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida - the year after he had his heart broken by Rachelle

The former model said Warner was passionate on paper, but 'shy' in public back then.

'He was quiet with people unless he knew them,' she said. 'He was very self-conscious of his face and what he looked like. He was always worried about what people thought.

'He was so insecure with himself and there was a lot of maybe jealousy and immaturity.

'It started all making sense that he was so young.'

Rachelle told DailyMail.com she began to resent Warner as he became more controlling.

'His behavior changed,' she said. 'Brian became very jealous.

'Even when I was with my girlfriends Brian would get upset. He would want to be around everywhere. He was possessive. But he was never mean. He just wanted to be together. He would write poems about it, how he would feel when he was not with me.'

Finally, Rachelle decided to end the two-year relationship after Warner called up her ex-boyfriend and roommate accusing her of infidelity.

'I went to his house and told him it was over,' she said. 'He said 'You're going to regret this.' I told him 'well then, so I do.'

'He begged me not to leave. When I walked out he came running out of the apartment in a towel, down the stairs to my car. He was trying to hold his towel so it didn't fall. I was telling him 'Brian we are done, you have to stop.' I felt like an awful person.'

The spurned writer became depressive and morose, leaving venomous messages for his ex on her car that had a very different tone to the gushing love poetry he wrote months earlier.

'Your appearance into my life has stung the very depth of my soul. / My shroud of security destroyed leaving / nothing but splinters of bitter feelings / and revolting lies,' he wrote.

'Your unfaithful and dismal part in this / life has ripped out the very center of my being.'

'He was wonderful. He was very kind to me, loving, very affectionate. There was nothing that would have struck me as scary or uncomfortable,' Rachelle said. 'I was very comfortable with him'

Warner's wretched poetry referred to his clothes 'drenched in narcotic blood', and he wrote 'I am now a mass of f***ing hate / Live or die I really don't care at this / point,'  lines that Rachelle said left her worried for his safety.

After they parted ways, she moved upstate to train as a firefighter, and Warner formed his band that would launch his career as a rock star.

Warner wrote about the relationship in his autobiography, though the former model says he took artistic license with some details.

He claimed they wrote letters 'steamy as they were inspirational' to each other when she went to Paris for the summer in 1987. She says she was offered a modelling job there, but never went.

And he has a rather different description of the phone call that precipitated their break-up.

'In desperate need of her affection (or just to get laid) one night, I paged her,' Warner wrote in the memoir. 'My phone rang minutes later, and I picked it up.

'Why are you paging this number?' asked a hostile man's voice. 'This is my girlfriend's number,' I told him belligerently. 'It's also my fiancee's number,' he fired back, and at that moment I felt my heart freeze and shatter, each shard dropping painfully through my insides.

'Did you know,' I stammered, 'that she's been sleeping with me?'

Warner wrote that months later Rachelle called, revealing that she was pregnant.

'Why are you telling me?' I asked as coldly as I could,' he wrote.

'I don't know if it's yours or his,' he said she replied.

Rachelle also claims her ex embellished a story about their chance meeting in a diner around three years later.

'She looked the same  drop-dead gorgeous  but modeling hadn't worked out for her,' Warner wrote. 'She had become a police officer, and looked like every man's fantasy dominatrix in her blue uniform, cap and nightstick. 'You should meet my son,' she said. 'He looks just like you.'

Rachelle says though they did bump into one another in a Wendys and she was dressed in her blue work uniform, it was as a firefighter not a police officer.

'Brian recognized me right away,' she said. 'He had tattoos, piercings, he looked completely different. I almost didn't recognize him.

'He told me he was getting ready to play somewhere in Fort Lauderdale and asked me to come to the show.

'I said 'I can't, I'm married with a baby.' He looked sad to me, and that was it.'

Warner also later admits in his book that Rachelle's child was not his, which she emphatically confirmed.

'DNA clarifies that that's not true. We all did [genealogy tracing service] 23 and Me,' she said.

Rachelle said she had been the victim of assault at a young age, but said that during their relationship Manson was 'loving' and 'affectionate' - the opposite of the accusations against him now

At least 12 women have come forward to accuse the -52-year-old of physical and sexual abuse, including actress Evan Rachel Wood (left) and actress Esme Bianco (right)

Rachelle said she has not seen him since  but revealed she had a disturbing run-in with his father, Hugh.

After Warner's career took off as Marilyn Manson, she wrote to him in 1997 to congratulate him.

His father received the letter and called her, offering her a job as a paramedic on Manson's tour.

Rachelle declined, but when Hugh told her he had something for her from her ex, she agreed to meet him at a local mall  not expecting the bizarre incident that would occur.

'When I showed up, Hugh unbuttoned his shirt and there was a picture of me stuck to his chest,' she said. 'He said 'this is what you do for me'.

'This was standing at a busy mall in Coral Springs, but he just did it casually, a couple buttons. He was so sweaty, it was a very hot Florida day. The picture was just stuck there with sweat. It was a sweaty mess.'

Rachelle said she made her excuses and fled, and never had contact with the Warners again.

The Florida firefighter said that seeing recent allegations emerge that Warner physically and sexually abused his girlfriends including Westworld actress Evan Rachel Wood, she wondered whether their break-up had sent him down a dark path.

'I can't say it's all because of me, but my friends say that,' she said. 'That I broke him and he became a different person. I can see people becoming a different person in their sadness or their pain. But he may have had this in him all along.'

Actress Esme Bianco's lawsuit against Manson accuses him of raping, sexually assaulting and beating her, and coercing her using drugs.

The legal complaint claims the rock star tied her to a prayer kneeler, beat her with a whip and electrocuted her in 2009.

Mr. Warner used drugs, force, and threats of force to coerce sexual acts from Ms. Bianco on multiple occasions. Mr. Warner raped Ms. Bianco in or around May 2011, the documents said.

The Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department said in February they are investigating allegations of domestic violence by Manson, after several women including Bianco and Westworld actress Evan Rachel Wood went public with claims of abuse during their past relationships with him.

Manson denied the claims and his lawyer said Biancos allegations in her court filing are provably false.

To be clear, this suit was only filed after my client refused to be shaken down by Ms. Bianco and her lawyer and give in to their outrageous financial demands based on conduct that simply never occurred, Mansons attorney Howard E. King said.

Warner has denied any abuse.
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Before it became the epicenter of the deadly COVID-19 pandemic, it was The City That Never Sleeps, teeming with around-the-clock social activity, buzzing streets, and booming businesses.

And then, New York City stood still.

More than 32,000 New Yorkers lost their lives since the start of the pandemic last March, which at one point saw 800 people dying daily and body bags piling up on the streets.

As the outbreak took hold, residents, particularly the wealthy and young professionals, fled the city in droves to take shelter elsewhere, leaving behind unprecedented scenes.

Manhattan's usually bustling thoroughfares, including its iconic Times Square, now stood deserted, while its restaurants, bars, and longstanding businesses that were once swarming with crowds, showed no signs of life.

The effects of the pandemic were so profound, they raised questions as to whether the Five Boroughs would ever be able to bounce back.

New York photographer Phil Penman has captured the images of those desolate streets a year ago to memorialize the sad state of those once thriving neighborhoods.

Now, one year later, photos show New York City is picking up the pieces after being gripped by the novel virus that sent 8.4million residents into lockdown and effectively transformed the bustling Big Apple into a gloomy ghost town.

Normally congested parts of the cities that were once abandoned, have re-emerged as recovering neighborhoods where the streets are now lined with 'new' outdoor dining tents, in line with COVID-19 rules.

'The main thing that stood out to me was the construction that has gone on in last year,' Penman said. 'In some of the pictures you can see entire new buildings have gone up. Also small differences of stores that used to be that are gone.'

Here, DailyMail.com takes you on a dramatic journey thanks to Phil Penman's stunning photographs - New York then and now.

 Slide me  Stunning photographs by New York photographer Phil Penman show how the Big Apple is slowly bouncing back after a year of devastation and economic turmoil brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Pictured above is the view of East 58th Street and Madison Avenue in the midst of the lockdown on March 22, 2020 and one year later on March 26, 2021

 Slide me  Flatiron District, April 1, 2020 vs March 16, 2021: The 2020 pandemic lockdown effectively transformed the the city into a ghost town after businesses were forced to shut down and residents fled. Above: Perfume shop, Saher USA Inc., is seen back open for business on West 31st Street and Broadway

 Slide me  Upper East Side, March 22, 2020 vs March 26, 2021: Cinema 123 by Angelika, located on East 60th Street and 3rd Ave, shared a farewell message to customers on its marquee after it was forced to shutter its doors. Twelve months later, the Upper East Side theater is back to showing indie films on its three screens

 Slide me  Flatiron District, April 1, 2020 vs March 21, 2021: On West 26th Street, it's business as usual again, as pedestrians, workers, and public transportation vehicles return to the streets after lockdown

 Slide me  East 52nd St and Fifth Avenue, March 19, 2020 vs March 21, 2021: One of Manhattan's most famous thoroughfares known for its luxury retailers and wealthy residents, no longer resembled the busy, upscale shopping hub that it was known as. Twelve months on, the street was brought back to life as high-end retailers, Salvatore Ferragamo and Cartier reopened

 Slide me  East 52nd Street and Fifth Avenue, March 19, 2020 vs March 21, 2021: Popular clothing stores, Zara and Hollister were left deserted after all non-essential businesses were ordered to shut down. Now, the stores are back to welcoming shoppers, and have even erected massive advertisements above scaffolding, as the city slowly comes out of lockdown

 Slide me  Soho, March 18, 2020 vs March 21, 2021: Nothing but a crushed cardboard box was left outside Wolford Boutique and a NARS cosmetic store on Prince Street during the pandemic shut down. Now, the once-desolate street is overrun with pedestrian and vehicular traffic, a promising sign things are returning to normal

 Slide me  West 37th Street and Broadway: April 1, 2020 vs March 26, 2021: A Dunkin Donuts in Manhattan's Garment District is back open for business, with a new billboard on display

 Slide me  West 30th Street and Seventh Avenue, March 29, 2020 vs March 15, 2021: Not a single car nor person was seen on the street, days after New York's statewide lockdown went into effect. A year later, two pedestrians walk on the sidewalk, and a nearby phonebooth is now defaced with graffiti as NYC returns to normal life

 Slide me  Soho, March 18, 2020 vs March 21, 2021: A once shuttered Rimowa store on Prince Street shows off its items on a window display as two men sit at an outdoor table

 Slide me  West Houston and Sullivan St, March 18, 2020 vs March 26, 2021: An outdoor flea market attracts customers outside The Church of St. Anthony of Padua, one year after the church was left deserted thanks to the pandemic lockdown

 Slide me  Grand Central Station April 15, 2020, vs March 15, 2021: One of New York Cities busiest rail terminals, which was brought to a standstill during the pandemic, resumes operations on 42nd Street

 Slide me  West 52nd St and 8th Avenue, March 22, 2020, vs March 15, 2021: The 870-block of 8th Avenue is abuzz with traffic and pedestrians a year after the Midtown Manhattan street was left almost vacant

 Slide me  Washington Square Park, March 18, 2020 vs March 30, 2021: The famous West Village park is teeming with visitors again after resembling a ghost town during the lockdown last year

 Slide me  Washington Square Park, March 18, 2020 vs March 30, 2021: The park's usual crowd of college students and social activists were nonexistent last year, leaving behind a rare and eerie scene

 Slide me  Midtown Manhattan, March 23, 2020 vs March 15, 2021: West 55th Street, left desolate one year prior, bounces back with its usual busy traffic and outdoor seating tents lining the streets

 Slide me  Soho, March 18, 2020 vs March 21, 2021: In a sign of the times, Fanelli Cafe on Prince Street, is seen back in business, this time serving customers in makeshift dining areas on the sidewalk in compliance with the coronavirus restrictions

 Slide me  Times Square, March 29, 2020 vs March 15, 2021: Brooklyn Diner prepares to reopen for business, reassuring customers with signs reading: 'We'll look forward to seeing you when it is healthy to do so'

 Slide me  Soho, March 18, 2020 vs March 21, 2021: New Yorkers return to the daily hustle and bustle outside M&O Market on Prince and Thompson streets

 Slide me  Soho, March 18, 2020 vs March 21, 2021: Prince Street's quaint roads were back buzzing with shoppers again as businesses reopened

 Slide me  Seventh Avenue and Times Square, March 22, 2020 vs March 26, 2021: In perhaps one of the most staggering scenes during the lockdown last year, NYC's most famous tourist attraction, known for its bright lights and congested streets was left completely uninhabited

 Slide me  World Trade Center, March 25, 2020 vs March 16, 2021: The iconic Oculus, an artistic landmark that serves as a transportation hub of the WTC is back in motion 12 months later

 Slide me  Fifth Avenue, March 29, 2020 vs March 23, 2021: The famous thoroughfare, nearly unrecognizable 12 months earlier, has been transformed back into a bustling shopping district

 Slide me 

 Slide me  Sixth Avenue, April 1, 2020 vs March 26, 2021: Pedestrians walk on the sidewalk outside a reopened Victoria's Secret Store near W 34th Street - in another sign that lockdown is coming to an end

 Slide me  Grand Central Station, April 15, 2020 vs March 15, 2021: Commuters return to the rail station as the city resumes operations amid its reopening plan
Two Carnival Cruise lines ships berthed in the Port of Galveston in Texas on Sunday for the first time in more than a year, as the industry looks to restart after being devastated by the Covid pandemic.

The Carnival Breeze and Carnival Vista arrived around midday with scores of locals lining the docks to welcome them back to port.

The ships were last in port in April 2020, when the pandemic brought cruises to a halt worldwide.

Several cruise ships were particularly hard hit in the opening weeks of the pandemic as the virus spread rapidly in the close confines.

Port officials say they hope the return of the ships to Galveston will help spur the CDC and political leaders to act faster to allow cruise ships to return to sea.

Just weeks ago, industry bosses and politicians penned a letter to the CDC urging them to lift sail restrictions and allow cruises to accept passengers again.

Carnival Breeze and Carnival Vista arrived in the Texas port on Sunday

Cruise ships have berthed at the Port of Galveston for the first time in a year

Both of the ships has a special message decked out in lights

Carnival hopes to spur the CDC into action and relax the restrictions to allow cruising to begin

Members of the public were invited to attend with those gathered standing behind a barrier

'We are SO excited to finally have our ships back home. We've been granted approval to allow the community public access to the dock in between cruise Terminal 1 and 2 for this special event,' a Facebook post by the Port of Galveston read.

Rodger Rees, Port of Galveston CEO, last month joined with Florida governor Ron DeSantis by penning an open letter to the CDC urging them to approve the restarting of cruises from July

He wrote: 'Suspension of cruising from Galveston has resulted in huge losses for the Texas economy and families who rely on this industry.

'Based on historical economic impact annual statistics, losses are estimated at $1.2 billion in direct spending, 23,000 jobs and $1.6 billion in wages statewide.'

The letter continued: 'This multi-billion-dollar industry is the ONLY industry prohibited by the federal government from operating, even as other sectors of travel, tourism, and hospitality have opened or continued to operate throughout the pandemic.'

The ships are the first to stay in Texas' only cruise terminal since late April 2020

The liners are still not allowed to pick up passengers with cruises still limited by federal health orders preventing sailing during the coronavirus pandemic

Rees detailed how the port's cruise terminal has been upgraded in order to meet CDC guidelines investing '$100,000 in improvements intended to reduce the spread of the virus.'

Both the Breeze and Vista are now to undergo maintenance while they wait at the port for further guidance from the CDC.

'Their intentions are to stay here, crew up, and do some work on the ships,' Rees told KTRK. 'So they'll be here when it's time to start cruising, and we're hoping that it's quick.'

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced (above) at the Port of Miami earlier this month he was suing to demand cruise ships be allowed to resume sailing immediately

On Wednesday, the CDC said cruise ships could resume sailing from mid-summer if they can prove 98 percent of their crew and 95 percent of their passengers are fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

The agency announced new requirements for getting the cruise industry back up and running by mid-July, one week after Alaska joined Florida's lawsuit demanding ships be allowed to resume sailing immediately.

Cruise lines were asked to submit their plans 'as soon as possible to maintain the timeline of passenger voyages by mid-July.'

Testing and quarantine rules will also be updated ahead of the industry restarting.

The cruise industry is one of the Florida's biggest tourism sectors, with 8 million passengers cruising from Florida in 2019, before the pandemic hit.

An estimated 150,000 jobs in the state are created by the industry, including dependent jobs at hotels, restaurants and airlines, generating nearly $8 billion in wages, according to estimates from the Cruise Lines International Association.

When the industry ground to a halt, the state's economy was hard hit with the first six months of the pandemic costing an estimated $3.2 billion in economic activity, according to the Federal Maritime Commission.

Royal Caribbean's Navigator of the Sea cruise ship docked at Port Miami. The CDC has said cruise ships can resume sailing from mid-summer if they can prove 98 percent of their crew and 95 percent of their passengers are fully vaccinated against COVID-19

The CDC shut down sailing last March when outbreaks broke out on ships. Pictured a docked Norwegian Gem cruise ship is seen at the Port of Miami in Miami Beach this month

Cruise ships fast became hotbeds for the virus when it first started ravaging the globe last spring, and several ships were turned away by ports refusing to allow sick patients to disembark.

The cruise industry and the CDC came under fire for their slow response amid the pandemic as ships continued to sail out to sea even after a series of outbreaks on board and repeated warnings that the high numbers of people in contained spaces made them breeding grounds for the virus.

Fears first mounted for cruise ship passengers and crew last February when hundreds tested positive on the Diamond Princess after Japanese authorities imposed a lockdown in Yokohama ordering the ship to stay off the coast for two weeks.

More than 700 people tested positive and 14 died after being on board the ship.

Passengers were confined to their cabins during the lockdown but several countries eventually lost patience with Japan and airlifted their citizens home.

Fears first mounted for cruise ship passengers and crew last February when hundreds tested positive on the Diamond Princess (above) after Japanese authorities imposed a lockdown in Yokohama ordering the ship to stay off the coast for two weeks

A passenger waves as she walks with others on the deck of the Diamond Princess cruise ship in February. More than 700 people tested positive and 14 died after being on board the ship

Despite the warning signs, on March 7, 2020 it was still business as usual with companies citing extra cleaning measures were being taken and then-Vice President Mike Pence told Americans it was 'safe for healthy Americans to travel.'

The next day - around a month after the Diamond Princess outbreak - the CDC issued guidelines that Americans do not travel on cruise ships.

Several ships still set sail after this time, and four days later the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a pandemic.

On March 13, 2020 more than 50 cruise lines finally announced they were suspending operations to and from US ports for 30 days and the CDC issued a no-sail order in US waters the following day.

Ports then refused ships permission to dock leaving passengers and crew stranded amid outbreaks.

In August, the US Coast Guard said it was still monitoring 36 cruise ships moored in US ports with 24,300 crew members on board and 42 cruise ships underway in US waters with 36,500 crew members on board, reported ABC News.
When Rep. Matt Gaetz vacationed in the Bahamas in 2018, he was joined by a doctor who donated to his campaign and a former colleague in the Florida Legislature.

The Republican congressman, Dr. Jason Pirozzolo and Halsey Beshears were united in their enjoyment of politics, fancy travel and the company of beautiful women. They also had another mutual interest: Floridas $1.2 billion medical marijuana industry.

The Bahamas trip is a central element of a federal investigation surrounding Gaetz that has suddenly endangered his political career. What began as an inquiry into sex trafficking and whether Gaetz paid women and an underage girl in exchange for sex has grown into a larger review of public corruption, according to people familiar with the investigation.

Investigators are looking at whether Gaetz and his associates tried to secure government jobs for some of the women, the people said. They are also scrutinizing Gaetzs connections to the medical marijuana sector, including whether Pirozzolo and others sought to influence legislation Gaetz sponsored. The investigation includes legislation from 2018, when Gaetz was in Congress, and earlier work in the Legislature, according to one of the people.

Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., attends a House Judiciary committee hearing at the Capitol in Washington, April 14. Before Gaetz rose to national prominence as an ardent backer of Donald Trump, he carved out an unusual reputation in Florida: a Republican lawmaker who wanted to liberalize marijuana laws. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite, File)

Pressure on the congressman could build in the coming weeks as Joel Greenberg, a Gaetz associate who has been accused of trafficking a minor for sex, faces a May 15 deadline to strike a plea deal with prosecutors. If he does, Greenberg may be pressed to cooperate with federal investigators and deliver damaging information against Gaetz.

None of the people on the trip to the Bahamas has been charged with a crime. Gaetz has vehemently denied any wrongdoing and has retained high-powered lawyers.

Dr. Jason Pirozzolo donated to Rep. Gaetz's campaign and has traveled with him. He started a consulting firm connecting marijuana businesses with medical directors

A spokesman for Gaetz said Saturday that Gaetz "is a long-time policy expert on marijuana liberalization and passed legislation on the matter as far back as 2013. Rep. Gaetz has never been influenced by outside groups to take a stance on any given position."

Beshears and a lawyer for Pirozzolo declined to comment for this story.

The Associated Press spoke with more than 10 people familiar with the dynamic among Gaetz, Pirozzolo and Beshears. Three of the people had knowledge of the investigation. They all spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not allowed to publicly discuss the ongoing investigation.

Halsey Beshears (seen at the Florida Capitol in Tallahassee in 2017) was a fellow Republican member of the Legislature who joined Rep. Gaetz to support medical marijuana legislation.

Gaetz's interest in medical marijuana dates back nearly a decade, when he was a member of the Florida House of Representatives. Well before he would gain national attention for his steadfast support of Donald Trump, Gaetz would carve out an unusual reputation in Tallahassee as a Republican who wanted to liberalize marijuana laws.

In February 2014, Gaetz co-sponsored the first state effort to allow marijuana for medical use. His proposal allowing the use of a nonhallucinogenic marijuana extract was limited to patients with cancer or a severe form of epilepsy and slowly earned the support of his father, Don Gaetz, who was then serving as president of the Florida Senate and said he was "being pummeled" by his son about supporting it.

Gaetz cast his proposal as a pared-down alternative to a statewide ballot measure that would have broadly legalized medical marijuana. Gaetz's law was approved with broad bipartisan support and signed into law by Republican Gov. Rick Scott in June 2014, while the statewide measure narrowly failed at the ballot box that November.

The day Gaetz's measure was up for a final debate and vote in the Florida House, both Pirozzolo and Beshears were on the floor.

Beshears was a fellow Republican member of the Legislature who joined Gaetz to support the legislation. Pirozzolo, an Orlando hand doctor and pilot, was there serving as the physician of the day for the lawmakers - a role he would frequently take on by flying his own plane to Tallahassee.

Once the legislation passed, it created lucrative new opportunities for Beshears' family and Pirozzolo.

The long-standing nursery owned by Beshears' family was awarded one of five highly coveted licenses to cultivate and dispense medical marijuana.

The legislation was written to specify - and restrict - who could win such a license. An amendment added by another lawmaker in the state House limited the pool of applicants to nurseries that had been in continuous business for 30 years and had an inventory of 400,000 or more plants.

The Beshears family nursery, joining with two other growers, met that standard.

The Tampa Bay Times reported in 2014 that Beshears had failed to file a conflict of interest report when he voted on the bill, and the lawmaker who sponsored the amendment wanted to "err on the side of limiting who could qualify now" when embarking on such a new industry. More licenses have since been awarded, but the industry is still tightly controlled.

Another amendment added to the 2014 legislation the day Pirozzolo watched in the state House required dispensary applicants to employ a doctor as a medical director.

Eight days later, Pirozzolo started a consulting firm connecting marijuana businesses with medical directors, the Orlando Sentinel reported. He later co-founded a group called the American Medical Marijuana Physicians Association, which advocates for doctors who recommend medical cannabis.

Gaetz has spoken at least twice at the associations annual conferences, including an appearance with longtime Trump confidant Roger Stone, according to the groups social media posts and the recollections of a member.

With recommendations from Gaetz and Beshears in 2018, Pirozzolo was appointed by the current governor, Republican Ron DeSantis, to serve on a board that runs Orlando International Airport. In 2019, he stood next to DeSantis on an airport tarmac and greeted Trump as he arrived in Orlando to kick off his reelection campaign, according to video posted online by a Sentinel reporter.

Two years after Gaetz's first medical marijuana law, he sponsored another measure in the Legislature to expand on it, allowing near-death patients to use nonsmokable marijuana of all strengths and doses.

The day it came up for a vote in the state House, Beshears voted for it, and Pirozzolo witnessed it, again serving as the doctor of the day.

By the time Gaetz was in Congress in 2018, he introduced legislation that would increase the number of entities that would conduct cannabis research. The legislation included provisions similar to what Pirozzolo's group was pushing to also expand research.

Nearly five months later, the men would meet in the Bahamas.

Former Seminole County Tax Collector, Joel Greenberg (right), seen here in this 2017 photo with longtime Trump advisor Roger Stone (left) and Rep. Gaetz (middle) is facing sex trafficking charges related to a girl between the ages of 14 and 17 and is also accused of illegally using a state database to look up information about the girl, according to an indictment.
A tattoo artist believes found Robin Hood's Silver Arrow while magnet fishing in Sherwood Forest.

Kush Wray, 32, pulled the fabled arrow out of a river on the first cast of his magnet fishing equipment near Budby, Nottinghamshire, on Monday.

Historians said the artefact looks like it could be from the 12th or 13th century, the time of Robin Hood, and revealed it would be silver in colour once cleaned, reported The Sun.

Kush Wray, 32, found a medieval arrow in a river near Budby, Nottinghamshire while fishing

Robin Hood won the Silver Arrow while dressed in disguise at an archery tournament set as a trap by the Sheriff of Nottingham, according to legend.

Mr Wray, from Eckington in Sheffield, said: 'It was as if I was destined to find it. It's crazy to think I could be part of the legend.'

The arrow has no blunted edge, meaning it is unlikely to ever have been fired.

An expert is due to examine the arrow after The British Museum's Portable Antiquities Scheme was made aware of the discovery.

Gemma Howard, senior site manager at Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre, called it an 'amazing' discovery.

She said the area it was found would have been 'just a stroll' away from the Major Oak - used by Robin and his Merry Men as a hideout.

'This is the first time that I have ever heard of a medieval arrow being found so close to where Robin Hood lived,' she added.

The area it was found would have been 'just a stroll' away from the Major Oak which is said to have been used by Robin and his Merry Men as a hideout
Kenosha Police waited seven months to investigate the theft of the replacement service weapon given to the officer who shot Jacob Blake.

Rusten Sheskey, 29, reported his loaner Glock 17 service pistol missing on September 15 last year - the same day is it believed to have been snatched from the glove box of his girlfriend's car.

The theft occurred just three weeks after Sheskey shot Blake, 29, seven times in the back, leaving him paralyzed.

WISN reported that the investigation into the theft of the Glock - which is still missing - did not begin until April 2021.

That was three months after Kenosha County District Attorney Michael Graveley announced that he was not seeking criminal charges against Sheskey in the Blake shooting.

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Kenosha police officer Rusten Sheskey, pictured in 2019, had his replacement service weapon stolen from his girlfriend's locked car last September, earning him a three-day suspension

The Kenosha police chief, Daniel Miskinis, had all the information about the theft but waited to see what the charging decision in the Blake case would be, Nosalik told WISN-TV.

After Sheskey returned to work on March 31, Nosalik said Chief Miskinis instructed him to open the investigation into the gun theft.

It ultimately resulted in Sheskey receiving a three day suspension from work, between April 15 and 18.

It remains unclear why Miskinis waited so long to open the probe, whether the timing was linked to Gravely's decision, and how Sheskey's punishment was chosen.

Defending the discipline meted out, Nosalik said: 'I did not get the feeling that this was a lackadaisical officer sitting in my office thinking that this was no big deal,' Nosalik said. 'To him it was a very big deal.'

The stolen gun was a loaner Sheskey was given after the Wisconsin Department of Justice investigators seized the one used to shoot Blake on August 23.

Sheskey told investigators he regularly left the weapon in his girlfriend's locked vehicle, according to a memo from Nosalik to Kenosha Police senior management, WISN reported.

Sheskey said he had secure locations for firearms at his Kenosha home, but that he moved after receiving death threats and 'did not have an opportunity to provide a safe location inside the home in which he was now living in,' Nosalik wrote.

'Sheskey did say that he believed that the night the firearm was stolen, the glovebox had been locked, as this had become a common practice,' the memo said. But his girlfriend was 'unsure if she locked the vehicle after leaving,' an officer wrote in the Racine police report on the theft.

Sheskey (left) returned to work on March 31, seven months after he shot Jacob Blake, right, seven times in the back. Blake was left paralyzed from the waist down

Sheskey is currently working a desk job and has not returned to patrol, according to police.

The cop shot Blake seven times, leaving him paralyzed from the waist down, after he and two other Kenosha officers tried to arrest Blake on an outstanding warrant.

A pocketknife fell from Blake's pants during a scuffle. He said he picked it up before heading to a vehicle to drive away with two of his children in the back seat. He said he was prepared to surrender once he put the knife in the vehicle. Sheskey told investigators that he feared for his own safety.

DA Graveley in January announced that his office would not charge Sheskey with a crime for the shooting.

'[It] has been reviewed by an independent expert as well as the Kenosha County District Attorney. Officer Sheskey was not charged with any wrong doing. He acted within the law and was consistent with training,' Chief Miskinis wrote in a press release last month.

Jacob Blake lies on the street after he was shot following a confrontation with Officer Rustin Sheskey in Kenosha on August 23

Blake, pictured in hospital, filed a federal lawsuit against Sheskey, accusing him of excessive force

'This incident was also reviewed internally. Officer Sheskey was found to have been acting within policy and will not be subjected to discipline.'

Blake's shooting happened three months after George Floyd's murder in Minneapolis, and came amid increased scrutiny of police officers' interactions with black Americans.

In March, Blake sued Sheskey in the US District Court for the Eastern District of Wisconsin for excessive force, seeking an unspecified amount in compensation for the injuries he suffered and 'a substantial sum' in punitive damages.

Last week, a protest was staged in Kenosha to call for Sheskey's firing, which resulted in the arrests of three activists, including Blake's uncle, on disorderly conduct charges.

Miskinis later said his department will not 'respond to demands, nor will we entertain the unlawful termination of a police officer.' He added that he and his staff are open to 'constructive communication' and they have made progress by adding a plan for equity and inclusion, increased training and body-worn cameras.
A New York judge has released a man suspected of vandalizing synagogues across the Bronx - just hours after another judge defied the state's bail reform laws and ordered him locked up.

Jordan Burnette, 29, faces 42 charges over a string of attacks on Jewish places of worship.

He appeared in court Sunday, and was expected to be freed because New York State's bail reform laws say a suspect with his charges cannot be held on bail.

But Bronx Judge Louis Nock classified some of the charges as 'hate crimes' and ordered him held on a $20,000 bail.

However, the judge's defiance didn't last long.

Just hours later Burnette was called back to court where another justice - Judge Tara Collins - granted him supervised release, the New York Post reports.

It was not immediately clear why Burnette was called to see another judge, or why he was granted supervised release after Judge Nock's original decision.

Jordan Burnette, 29, was arrested in connection with a rash of hate crimes in the Bronx

Judge Louis Nock (left) classified some of the charges as 'hate crimes' and ordered Burnette held on a $20,000 bail. But just hours later Burnette was called back to court where Judge Tara Collins (right) granted him supervised release

The doors and windows at several Riverdale synagogues were smashed in recent weeks and a vandal was caught on camera hurling stones at the Riverdale Jewish Center, pictured above

Police arrested him Saturday morning as he was riding a bike stolen from a synagogue

Burnette faces more than 40 charges, including a number of hate crime-related offenses after he allegedly smashed windows at various synagogues in the area.

Over the course of 11 days, Burnette allegedly destroyed the doors and windows of local synagogues and poured hand sanitizer over some prayer books. The windows of cars parked nearby were also smashed.

The carnage began when the suspect allegedly hurled large rocks at two Bronx synagogues, Chabad of Riverdale and Riverdale Jewish Center.

The following night it is alleged the same suspect returned to cause more damage at the same two Jewish houses of worship.

Jordan Burnette took part in a virtual arraignment having been charged Saturday with burglary as a hate crime

The NYPD released images, above left and right, of the person suspected of hurling large rocks at four synagogues in The Bronx last week

He is also said to have attacked the Conservative Synagogue and Young Israel of Riverdale, which are based in the Bronx too.

Significant damage was caused to all four synagogues as a result, an NYPD spokesman said at the time.

Burnette was arrested about 3am Saturday after being stopped by police for riding a bicycle against the flow of traffic, Deputy Inspector Jessica Corey, commanding officer of the Hate Crimes Task Force, said at a news conference.

Surveillance video from the area allegedly showed Burnette had thrown a rock through the windshield of a van and was in a synagogue parking lot where religious prayer books were found strewn on the ground.

Police said Burnette was riding a bicycle taken from a shed in the parking lot at the time he was stopped.

Clear surveillance footage then captured Burnette walking away from the area

Police say surveillance, stakeouts and patrol all helped lead to the arrest

Prosecutors at Burnette's initial arraignment at Bronx Criminal Court pointed out that such crimes were not on the list that would be eligible for bail - essentially asserting that the 'shattering of glass' was a violent felony.

'Given the number of attacks, we probably would have asked for substantial bail before January of 2020,' Assistant District Attorney Theresa Gottlieb told Judge Louis Nock during the virtual hearing.

'The legislature did not include hate crimes in its revision of bail reform and under the law as it exists today, this is not eligible,' she added. 'We will not violate the law.'

But Judge Nock set Burnette's bail at $30,000 for a partially secured bond or $20,000 cash.

'I've taken a very close look at the law,' Nock explained. 'Given the gravity and the number of charges he's facing, this court is inclined to set bail.'

Burnette's attorney attempted to keep him from being placed behind bars.

'Your honor, according to the bail law, none of the charges in this case apply,' Morgan Everhart protested. 'These are all nonviolent charges.'

'I appreciate your effort. I hope I am correct,' Judge Nock replied.

Burnette's attorney attempted to keep him from being placed behind bars but failed

NEW YORK'S BAIL REFORMS: THE FACTS On January 1 2020, New York State introduced sweeping criminal justice legislation, meaning that cash bail is no longer permitted for most misdemeanors and nonviolent felonies, including robbery. Judges are now required to release individuals charged with such crimes with no cash bail. The controversial new New York 'no-bail law' is expected to curtail the use of cash bail and pretrial detention in an estimated 90 per cent of arrests and strengthen measures intended to ensure a defendant's right to a speedy trial. New York's decision to reform its law saw the state join ranks with California and New Jersey - which already prohibit cash bails for most misdemeanors and nonviolent felonies. The 'no-bail' law has been mired in controversy since it was enshrined into state legislation. Advertisement

Judge Nock also barred the media from speaking with Burnette upon his release.

'I am objecting to any press being here at this time. I object to any photographs being taken of the defendant,' his lawyer, Everhart, told the judge.

'I am not able to be in the courthouse with him. I ask that you not allow the press to question him without counsel present.'

If attacks that occur do not injure others, they are supposed to be exempt from bail under New York state's bail reform law that was enacted last year.

Those offenses can cover a whole range of incidents including misdemeanors and some felonies.

'He is being charged with burglary as a hate crime and also faces numerous charges relating to the many acts of vandalism as hate crimes that have taken place in this community,' said NYPD Deputy Inspector Jessica Corey, of the Hate Crimes Task Force during a Saturday press conference.

'This has been going on for a few days. This was a department-wide effort,' said John Miller, NYPD Deputy Commissioner of Intelligence and Counterterrorism.

'Hopefully life will resume back to normal and people will be able to worship without fear.'

More than 400 nonviolent offenders have been able to walk free without having to post bail according to figures seen by the New York Post.

The latest attacks come a year after worrying statistics revealed anti-Semitic hate attacks in New York and New Jersey had hit a 40 year high.

In May, a report by the Anti-Defamation League found there had been more than 2,100 anti-Semitic incidents around the US in 2019, the highest number since the group started tracking data in 1979.

A Press briefing by NYPD Deputy Inspector Jessica Corey at 50th Precinct was held on Saturday in regards to arrest of suspect in recent vandalism of synagogues in the Bronx

Police stand guard in front of one of the Jewish-related buildings in the Bronx as the NYPD's Hate Crime Task Force is investigated the incidents

It found New York had the highest rate of anti-Semitic crimes of any state in the country.

More than half of the attacks recorded in New York City in 2019 took place in Brooklyn, the ADL report found.

A rash of attacks in 2020 were feared to be linked to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Jewish people had masks ripped off their faces and suffered verbal abuse in several recorded incidents.

At the time, the ADL's Jonathan Greenblatt said many of the attacks were filmed and posted online, resulting in copycat incidents.

The Riverdale Jewish Center in The Bronx is pictured where a suspect hurled rocks, smashing windows and doors over two nights
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Travel experts today insisted there is 'no danger of an influx of disease' into Britain after Boris Johnson warned that putting lots of countries on the travel 'green list' from May 17 could risk a jump in cases from abroad.

The Prime Minister has maintained Downing Street will be 'cautious' amid bitter Cabinet wrangling over how far to loosen the border restrictions ahead of the next stage of his roadmap out of Covid lockdown.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock and chief medical officer Chris Whitty are said to be among those pushing for quarantine-free states to be kept to an absolute minimum.

But other senior figures are urging a looser approach, insisting that with the outbreak under control in the UK and vaccines making strong progress the government has no right to keep curbing freedoms.

Mr Johnson suggested he is siding with the dovish camp on a pre-election visit to Hartlepool this afternoon.

'We do want to do some opening up on May 17 but I don't think that the people of this country want to see an influx of disease from anywhere else,' he told reporters.

'I certainly don't and we have got to be very, very tough, and we have got to be as cautious as we can, whilst we continue to open up.'

The UK's 'green list' is not expected to be revealed until Friday, leaving millions of eager British holidaymakers in limbo as they wonder whether trips will be possible.

But travel industry insiders have dismissed Mr Johnson's fears, with Paul Charles, CEO of travel consultancy The PC Agency, saying there is 'absolutely no danger of any influx of disease into the UK' with the Government's current hurdles in place.

He told MailOnline: 'The reason why testing has to be done by every passenger pre-departure to the UK, and after arriving here, is to help weed out any infections or variants. There have been very few cases or variants in recent weeks since these measures were put in place.

'The Prime Minister needs to focus on protecting hundreds of thousands of jobs at risk in the travel and tourism sector, and open up overseas travel safely, and progressively, from May 17. '

Mr Charles said a balance can be struck between health needs and economic priorities, adding: 'Other countries are restarting safely, so should we.'

Boris Johnson is today facing pressure from ministers to expand the travel 'green list' and give millions of Britons hopes of a holiday abroad this summer. Pictured: A beach in Malaga, Spain

On a visit to Hartlepool today, Boris Johnson poured cold water on holidays hopes, warning putting lots of countries on the travel 'green list' from May 17 could risk an 'influx of disease'

He added: 'US citizens who are fully-jabbed are now able to travel without onerous restrictions or quarantines once they are back home.

'With 15 million British citizens now fully-jabbed, they too should be allowed to travel after May 17 and not have to self-isolate on their return.'

Meanwhile, Clive Wratten, CEO of the Business Travel Association, called on destinations used by business travellers not to be overlooked.

He said: 'The BTA is watching closely for the green and amber traffic light countries. Whilst we all look forward to a holiday, it's vital for the UK economy that business travel destinations are included on the green list as soon as it is safe to do so.'

Noel Josephides, director of AITO, the Specialist Travel Association, said the Government's 'latest series of turncoat measures' are 'difficult to comprehend in the light of its hugely successful vaccination programme.'

EU set to open up to UK holidaymakers EU states are set to open their borders to holidaying Brits who have been fully vaccinated. Under current restrictions, only people from seven countries, including Australia and Singapore, are allowed to enter the bloc for non-essential reasons. The commission's new proposals would extend that to foreign citizens who have been fully vaccinated or are from countries with a 'good epidemiological situation'. People arriving from the UK, Russia and a number of other countries would be able to meet the new criteria, according to data provided by the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). However, US citizens might not. 'The Commission proposes to allow entry to the EU for non-essential reasons not only for all persons coming from countries with a good epidemiological situation but also all people who have received the last recommended dose of an EU-authorised vaccine,' an EU statement said. 'This could be extended to vaccines having completed the WHO emergency use listing process. In addition, the Commission proposes to raise... the threshold related to the number of new COVID-19 cases used to determine a list of countries from which all travel should be permitted.' To limit the risk of importing new coronavirus variants, the Commission also offered a new 'emergency brake' that would introduce swift travel restrictions for countries where the situation deteriorates. EU member states are due to start discussing the proposal tomorrow. Advertisement

He said: 'The PM says that "no-one wants another influx of this disease" - certainly correct - but this is the same PM who has let hundreds of thousands of people into the UK over the past 14 months, including long before the vaccine was available, without a working test and trace system.

'We seem to have the full gamut of variants already in the UK; this is very much bolting the stable door after the horse has bolted.

'Those travelling abroad, either for business (as I am currently doing), visiting friends and family, or on holiday, will of course need to follow the mantra of face, space, hands, that we are now well used to.

'With commonsense, there should be no/minimal problems; it is in everyone's best interests to ensure that they take care to protect themselves, their friends and family.'

The comments came as the EU unveiled plans to let vaccinated Brits in for holidays.

Brussels has offered hope for getaways with proposals for easing border rules for those who have had jabs and from countries with low infection rates.

Gibraltar and Malta might be on the 'green list', but much of Europe and the US could remain out of bounds due to fears over variant strains.

Portugal is one country that could be added, with advocates saying infections and the risk of variants is now very low there.

However, a cross-party group of MPs has insisted that holidays should be discouraged even once they become legal in a fortnight's time.

Meanwhile, Thomas Cook chief executive Alan French tried to strike a more positive note about the prospects for later in the summer, saying there is 'great progress' in preparing destinations such as Portugal and Spain for the return of holidaymakers.

The Government is expected to announce as early as this week the first countries that Britons can visit without having to quarantine  but the list is only believed to include a handful of destinations.

The so-called 'green list' will be updated every three weeks, raising the prospect that new countries  including popular destinations in Europe  will be announced before the end of this month.

For much of the country, the half-term break starts on May 31.

Under the traffic-light system for foreign travel, those returning from green countries will not need to quarantine but will have to take two Covid tests  one before they return to the UK, which can be either a lateral flow or PCR test, and a PCR test on the second day after they arrive back.

Under the traffic-light system for foreign travel, those returning from green countries will not need to quarantine but will have to take two Covid tests  one before they return to the UK, which can be either a lateral flow or PCR test, and a PCR test on the second day after they arrive back.

Those who return from countries designated as either amber or red will still have to quarantine, either at home or in a hotel, and have three compulsory tests. Government officials are debating whether to stick to previous policy plans of having all children under 11 exempt from having to take the tests.

Families are set to get the go-ahead to take summer holidays in some popular European hotspots before the end of the month (Gibraltar pictured)

Sources say the so-called 'green list' will be updated every three weeks, raising the prospect that new countries  including popular destinations in Europe

The majority of European countries are expected to be given amber status this week, but there is optimism that some will turn green when the list is next updated.

The ban on overseas holidays will end on May 17, along with the threat of fines for attempting to travel without a permitted reason.

But Cabinet ministers are understood to be privately urged the Prime Minister overrule Mr Hancock Prof Whitty's timid approach.

The pair are said to be pushing Mr Johnson to limit the number of countries on the 'green list' to a 'tiny' group.

One government source told the Times: 'You've got the usual hawks on the health side like Matt Hancock and Chris Whitty who are more cautious.'

However another cabinet minister told the paper they were attempting to step in and increase the number of countries on the list.

They said: 'The government has no right to take people's freedoms away. It did it because we were in an emergency but these rights don't belong to the government.'

Bank of England 'to upgrade growth forecasts' Britain's hugely successful vaccination rollout is helping the economy recover from the coronavirus recession faster than expected, the Bank of England will declare this week. The Bank is set to hike its forecasts for the UK economy on Thursday as the vaccination programme and easing of lockdown help boost Britain's recovery. In its last update in February the Bank predicted that GDP would grow by 5 per cent this year, and 7.25 per cent in 2022 after GDP plunged 9.8 per cent in 2020. It predicted unemployment would peak at 7.8 per cent after the furlough ends, but the scheme was subsequently extended at the Budget in March. Howard Archer, chief economic adviser to the EY Item Club, said: 'It looks highly likely that the Bank of England will revise significantly up its GDP growth forecast for the UK economy in 2021, although it may party offset this by lowering expected growth in 2022, and also markedly its unemployment projections.' The EY Item Club believes growth could surge to 6.8 per cent in 2021, which would be the best year of growth since the Second World War. It has also slashed it forecast for peak unemployment to 5.8 per cent. Advertisement

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer criticised the 'chopping and changing' of the travel corridors list introduced last summer, as he said he will 'wait and see' what the Government announces on plans to restart international travel.

'We need to be very careful. I think it's clear that the virus is increasing in some countries around the world, so we have to be very, very careful,' he told reporters during a campaign visit to Lewisham.

'What we can't have is a repeat of last summer, where the lists were chopping and changing on a daily or even weekly basis.

'So I'll wait and see what the Government has to say but I think we have to be very careful and very cautious.'

Under current EU restrictions, only people from seven countries, including Australia and Singapore, are allowed to enter the bloc for non-essential reasons.

The commission's new proposals would extend that to foreign citizens who have been fully vaccinated or are from countries with a 'good epidemiological situation'.

People arriving from the UK, Russia and a number of other countries would be able to meet the new criteria, according to data provided by the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). However, US citizens might not.

'The Commission proposes to allow entry to the EU for non-essential reasons not only for all persons coming from countries with a good epidemiological situation but also all people who have received the last recommended dose of an EU-authorised vaccine,' an EU statement said.

'This could be extended to vaccines having completed the WHO emergency use listing process. In addition, the Commission proposes to raise... the threshold related to the number of new COVID-19 cases used to determine a list of countries from which all travel should be permitted.'

To limit the risk of importing new coronavirus variants, the Commission also offered a new 'emergency brake' that would introduce swift travel restrictions for countries where the situation deteriorates.

EU member states are due to start discussing the proposal tomorrow.

Mr French suggested that Thomas Cook is hoping for a much broader opening by the peak summer season.

'When the holidays proper start at the end of June, we are expecting most of the countries that the UK goes on holiday to - Europe particularly - to be open,' he told BBC Radio 4's Today programme.

'We are expecting Portugal, Spain, Greece, Croatia and so forth to be open, it would be nice if Turkey was open.

'When we look at what is going on in those countries, both in terms of infection rates and how they are preparing for holidaymakers, I think there is great progress being made.'

Foreign holidays look set to resume this month as the Government prepares to reveal the 'green list' next week. Ministers are poised to decide next week that foreign holidays can resume from May 17, the next stage at which restrictions ease

Meanwhile, the all-party parliamentary group on Covid (APPG) today issued a report recommending holidays abroad should be discouraged - even once they are made legal.

In their report, the cross-party group of MPs said: 'The UK government should discourage all international leisure travel to prevent the importation of new variants into the UK, in order to reduce the risk of a third wave and further lockdowns.

'This recommendation should be implemented immediately and reviewed on a quarterly basis.'

The group have insisted the Government keep restrictions and continue to prop-up the travel industry - who could lose billions of pounds if foreign holidays are banned for a second successive year.

It comes as Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab yesterday warned that some measures such as masks will be in place into the summer.

While he insisted the UK is 'turning the corner' as Covid recedes, he stressed 'some safeguards' may remain to ward off a potential further wave of the virus.

He told the BBC's Andrew Marr Show: 'We want to get to the position at the end of June when we can get life back as close to normal as possible, but there will still need to be some safeguards in place.'

Mr Raab later refused to deny there were tensions within the cabinet about easing foreign travel, telling Times Radio: 'It's absolutely right that we discuss and debate those issues very carefully. We want to open up, that's our instinct as a country.

'We want to be having the travel for social reasons and for economic reasons.

'On the other hand, obviously it goes without saying we want to make sure we can do it safely. So I think that's the right approach. It's a balance.'

Boris Johnson reveals there is a 'good chance' current social distancing rules will be SCRAPPED on June 21

Boris Johnson today revealed there is a 'good chance' that current social distancing rules will be scrapped on June 21.

The Prime Minister said he hopes it will be possible to axe the existing one-metre plus rule when the nation reaches the final step in his lockdown exit roadmap.

His comments came as hospitality bosses said a return to unrestricted trading is 'critical' and will mean that pubs, bars and restaurants can 'come off life support'.

Ditching the one-metre plus rule will allow hospitality venues as well as places like theatres to open at full capacity for the first time in more than a year.

It was reported overnight that one-way systems, screens and mask-wearing while moving around could remain in place in hospitality settings beyond June 21 but customer numbers will no longer be limited.

Audiences in theatres and cinemas will have to wear face coverings during performances, while there will be strict guidance on ventilation and staggered entry, according to The Times.

Boris Johnson today revealed there is a 'good chance' that current social distancing rules will be scrapped on June 21

Hospitality bosses said a return to unrestricted trading from June 21 is 'critical' and will mean that pubs, bars and restaurants can 'come off life support'

Speaking during a visit to Hartlepool, Mr Johnson said: 'As things stand, and the way things are going, with the vaccine rollout going the way that it is  we have done 50 million jabs as I speak to you today, quarter of the adult population, one in four have had two jabs.

'You are seeing the results of that really starting to show up in the epidemiology.

'I think that we will be able to go ahead, feels like May 17 is going to be good.

'But it also looks to me as though June 21 we'll be able to say social distancing as we currently have to do it, the one-metre plus, I think we have got a good chance of being able to dispense with the one-metre plus from June 21.

'That is still dependent on the data, we can't say it categorically yet, we have got to look at the epidemiology as we progress, we have got to look at where we get to with the disease. But that's what it feels like to me right now.'

Mr Johnson's comments came after Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab yesterday said 'some safeguards' would have to stay in place beyond the June 21 date, such as continued use of masks and physical distancing.

Last month, Government scientific advisers said the public should be able to remove face masks over the summer as vaccines do the heavy lifting in controlling Covid-19  but they cautioned that masks and possibly other measures may be needed next autumn and winter if cases surge.

Kate Nicholls, chief executive of trade body UKHospitality, said the industry would need to 'wait to see the full detail of plans as any restrictions in venues will continue to impact revenue and business viability'.

She added: 'A return to unrestricted trading on June 21 is critical and will mean hospitality businesses (can) come off life support and be viable for the first time in almost 16 months.

'We urge the Government to confirm reopening dates and these plans at the earliest opportunity, which will boost confidence and allow companies to step up planning and bring staff back.'

Mr Johnson said a decision on scrapping the current social distancing rules will be 'dependent on the data, we can't say it categorically yet'. Diners are pictured in Soho in central London on April 30

The PM said the success of the UK's vaccination programme is 'really starting to show up in the epidemiology'. Soho in central London is pictured on May 1

A spokesman for the UK Cinema Association indicated that the organisation hopes face coverings will not be a continued requirement.

He said: 'We strongly believe that our exemplary record on safety  with not a single case of Covid traced back to a UK venue  and our ability to manage the movement of cinema-goers in modern, highly ventilated indoor environments offer ample evidence that any relaxation from June 21 can be undertaken safely without the need for further ongoing restrictions, including any requirement for face coverings.'

A Cabinet Office spokesman pointed back to the wording in the PM's roadmap which states that the Government 'will complete a review of social distancing measures and other long-term measures that have been put in place to limit transmission'.

The review's findings 'will help inform decisions on the timing and circumstances under which rules on one-metre-plus, face masks and other measures may be lifted'.
After months of practice driving  via remote controls  a 12-foot, 600-pound vessel that can reach depths of nearly 2,000 feet, the sailors of the unmanned systems platoon of Little Creek-based expeditionary mine countermeasures (ExMCM) company 2-2 were ready. It was time to see how one specialist group of sailors worked with three other sets of mine-hunting experts: the divers who disarm explosives, the analysts who interpret hard-to-read sonar and video readouts and the command and control team keeps them all talking to each other and decides how best to clear out mines.
A self-styled wildlife lover was later revealed to be one of the bloodiest bird poachers in California history after going on an animal killing spree for years.

Richard Parker massacred more than 150 birds of prey around his home in Standish, a remote town in Lassen County, Northern California - although authorities fear his killing spree could have gone on for years undetected.

When confronted, Parker claimed he was culling raptors to prevent them from killing off local game birds such as water fowl.

Parker was arrested in 2018 after officials from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife - acting on an anonymous tip - found nine rotting bird carcasses at his home.

After staking out his property, the officer observed Parker taking potshots at protected raptors and swiftly moved in.

A grid search of Parker's 80-acre property with specialist cadaver dogs found nearly 150 birds in varying states of decomposition, as well as two dead bobcats, a taxidermied mountain lion, and other nongame birds - all suspected of being unlawfully killed.

Richard Parker with poaching in excess of 150 birds of prey such as red-tailed hawks and other wildlife

While executing a search warrant on Parker's 80-acre property near Standish, California, California Department of Fish and Wildlife found carcasses of more than 135 birds and mammals, including the hawks and taxidermy mountain lion pictured here

In April of 2019, Parker, then 68, pleaded guilty to crimes associated with poaching in excess of 150 birds of prey and other wildlife.

He was sentenced to three months in jail, a $75,000 fine, and five years' probation. Terms of his probation forbid him from possessing firearms or engaging in hunting or fishing of any kind.

Kyle Kroll, the local fish and game warden, told The Guardian he feared the true death toll was much higher.

'Who knows what the true extent was,' Kroll said.

'We uncovered a hundredfold more than we assumed we'd find. But things don't last long in the wild. The true extent of the carnage was probably much greater.'

The dead birds found on Parker's property were in various stages of decomposition

A red-tailed hawk - similar to the one pictured above - was the most common target for Parker's predatory poaching

Officials from California's Department of of Fish and Wildlife made the shocking discovery at Parker's property in Standish, Norther California

Todd Kinnard, an officer with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, went to carry out an informal inspection of Parker's 80 acre property in March 2018 after receiving an anonymous tip, The Guardian reported.

Parker was not at home, but Kinnard was greeted by the horrifying sight of nine dead raptors at varying levels of decomposition, some strung up from a cottonwood tree.

He launched what wildlife inspectors refer to as a Code Five surveillance plan - spending days at a neighboring property observing the Parker property with a high-powered scope.

On one of these mornings, he witnessed a man - later confirmed to be Parker - emerge from the house, rifle in hand, who proceeded to take potshots at the protected birds.

Kinnard had enough evidence to get a warrant to search the property, and returned with additional officers and a specially-trained Department of Fish and Wildlife cadaver dog.

The search revealed what was described as an 'extraordinary number of raptor carcasses' - 126 in all, mostly red-tailed hawks, on top of the nine Kinnard had previously found. They also found at least one owl and an uncommon migratory ferruginous hawk.

Investigators also located a as well as two dead bobcats, a taxidermied mountain lion, and other nongame birds.

Among the dead birds of prey were red-tailed hawks, above, an owl and an rare migratory ferruginous hawk. Raptors are protected under California state law due to their status as a valuable resource

The dead birds found on Parker's property were in various stages of decomposition

Raptors are protected under state law due to their status as a valuable resource in California. They are highly susceptible to environmental stressors, including drought and habitat loss, which makes then an indicator species.

In addition, by being the top bird predators in the food chain, they play a crucial part in balancing the ecosystem by helping to control rodent and small mammal populations overgrowth, including voles, mice, rats and squirrels.

The Guardian reported that Richard Parker was a powerful figure in Lassen County, a sprawling 4720 square miles of northern California with a population of just 30,573.

Parker was born and raised in Lassen County and delivered milk in the area for 20 years after completing a bachelor's degree.

The area surrounding his home - Honey Lake Valley - is nestled between desert and mountains, creating a unique ecosystem that attracts thousands of protected birds of prey.

In 1999, Parker told the local Lassen County News paper that he wanted to rid the local area of an invasive weed and allow waterfowl to return.

'What I was going to grow was wildlife, little critters, waterfowl.

'My interest is to have birds and wildlife around me.'

The next year he was elected director of the Lassen municipal utility district - which oversees the provision of public utility in the area.

But within 12 months of his election, residents revolted against him after he proposed a 162% hike in electricity costs.

He tried to place blame for the hike on local environmentalists - or 'bunny huggers' as he referred to them at a public meeting.

By 2013, his attitudes towards conservation had hardened to the point that he was advocating for logging in the area - widely acknowledged to be an environmentally destructive practice.

Residents said that Parker had come to view himself as lord of the manor in the Honey Lake Valley.

He was eventually tried in state court - meaning that 10% of his $75,000 fine was returned to the county fish and game commission, to help preserve the nature in the area.
An Australian wave-generating surf pool with plans to expand into a year-round tourist attraction could open to visitors as early as 2022.

Broadbeach-based company Surf Lakes built the facility in 2018 near the town of Yeppoon on Queensland's Capricorn Coast.

The pool uses 'five wave' technology to produce five different levels of waves around the lake, using a giant plunger driven by compressed air at the center.

Now, the company plans to convert the site into the 'ultimate surf getaway' in a $187million development plan lodged with the Livingstone Council last month.

The start-up first launched the world-first technology in 2018, which boasts the highest wave productivity, with hundreds of surfers able to catch up to ten waves each per hour

In addition to the wave-pool, visitors to the eco tourism resort could enjoy an aqua-park, scuba diving facilities and a skate park, and relax in luxury accommodation.

If approved, the site - which is expected to be complete by 2031 - is estimated to bring $17.4million of ongoing benefits to the local economy and create 230 jobs.

In the development stages of the project, the facility is predicted to add around $40million to the local community each year and create 350 jobs.

The first $122million phase of the two-stage plan would see the construction of a skate park, scuba hole, junior playground, a solar farm and 'glamping facilities' as well as pop-up food and beverage sites.

Beginner, intermediate and expert surfers can enjoy the wave pools' '5 wave' technology, which produces five different levels of waves simultaneously around the lake

The second phase would see the addition of 100 short-term accommodation beds, a 75-bed boutique hotel, an inflatable aqua-park as well as a cafe and restaurant.

Wayne Dart, general manager of Surf Lake's global operations, described the facility as a 'huge tourist drawcard for the Capricorn Coast and Rockhampton regions'.

'We think Surf Lakes Yeppoon would attract 272,000 visitors around 2026 and 83 per cent would be for the surfing experience', Mr Dart told Real Commercial.

'This would generate an estimated additional 31,000 visitor nights in the Livingstone Shire, creating $4.5 million in additional expenditure.'

The $187million proposal includes the construction of a skate park, scuba pool and aqua park, and will house guests in 'glamping' facilities

The facility has hopes to become Central Queensland's premier outdoor recreational and active tourism hub

An estimated 495,000 people are expected to visit the facility, with 74,000 night visitors, growing to $10.9million in additional expenditure.

The start-up have partnered with Place Design Group, the outfit behind the first $53million revitalisation of the Yeppoon Lagoon, for the planning and approvals.

Surf Lakes have already received over 700 enquires from companies internationally, and have signed exclusive territory deals with potential licensees in Texas, California, Nevada, Tennessee and Hawaii.

Mr Dart said buyers generally fell into three categories; surf-loving entrepreneurs, residential or commercial property developers or existing waterpark operators.

The eye-popping surf park is expected to support 229 full-time jobs and bring $17.4million to the local economy and bring $17.4million of ongoing benefits to the local community

The approval process is expected to take about six months with Surf Lakes to continue to showcase their wave-making technology in the meantime.

The technology creates the most breaks in a man-made pool with ten separate waves in total  four on the left hand side, four on the right and two beginner waves.

The five different levels of waves vary in difficulty, size, and length and are colour-coded so beginner surfers through to moderate and advanced surfers can enjoy wave riding.

'From a commercial perspective, being able to produce 2000 consistent rides an hour using the unique plunger technology puts us head and shoulders above any other wave pools out there right now', Mr Dart said.

'Then you have 850 metres or so of 'beachfront' property that you can develop. It's not just a pool, it's a lake. The whole thing is mind-blowing.'
A couple have sidestepped tradition with a unique gender reveal by ordering a snack pack with their child's sex hidden beneath a mound of chips and kebab meat.

Turkish eatery Istanbul in Parramatta, in Sydney's west, received an unusual request from soon-to-be parents keen to announce the gender of their child to loved ones.

'Today we have something special that we are doing,' the restaurant's chefs said in a video posted on TikTok.

'We have got a gender reveal. These guys wanted it in a snack pack.'

Istanbul in Parramatta, a Turkish eatery in Sydney's west, recently made a 'gender reveal snack pack' (pictured) for an expectant couple

In the clip, the kitchen staff pour a basket of hot chips onto a sheet of paper before covering them with shredded cheese and meat.

'This snack pack is going to have BBQ sauce,' the worker says, drizzling on the topping before taking the platter out to the group.

'They've started now. The results will come in in half an hour,' he says.

A time lapse segment shows the group picking away at the meal until it disappears, leaving the metal plate visible through the grease-soaked paper.

'Now it's time for the reveal,' the chef says, reappearing at the table to help them unveil the secret message.

The group countdown before lifting the tray to find a second platter hidden underneath, with the words 'It's a girl' inscribed on the plate in black marker.

The crowd can be heard gasping in excitement at learning the expectant couple will soon be welcoming a daughter.

After eating, the group lift the platter to reveal another underneath, inscribed with the sex of the child (pictured)

The video was circulated across social media platforms, leaving many in stitches over the twist on the typical gender reveal, in which couple's normally host a party and pop a balloon filled with blue or pink confetti, depending on the child's sex.

'Romance isn't dead,' one person said.

'I'm dead,' another added alongside a laughing emoji.

'Romance at its finest,' a third comment read.

Some said they were inspired to use the unconventional method.

'[Here is] an idea for the future,' one person wrote.

Another added. '[This is] the future of gender reveals.'
A new childcare policy that makes the service cheaper for quarter of a million families is under fire because it will not kick in for another year.

In the May 11 budget the government will increase subsidies for a family's second child up to 95 per cent and remove the annual $10,560 cap on the Child Care Subsidy.

The government says the policy, which will cost taxpayers $1.7billion and is estimated to benefit 250,000 families, will not kick in until July 2022, more than a year from now, and will not benefit parents with only one child in care.

Australian Treasurer Josh Frydenberg (right) speaks to a family during a visit to Narrabundah Cottage Childcare Centre in Canberra

The Labor opposition has slammed the government for not implementing the policy sooner, as families face rising childcare costs with an average four per cent hike next year.

Labor shadow minister Amanda Rishworth said changes should come into play as soon as possible.

'If we are going to actually support women getting back into the workforce as part of the Covid recovery, that relief for child care must come now, not off into the never-never,' she said.

'So it is disappointing once again from this government to have a headline, but really some confusion in the delivery.'

Early Childhood Australia chief executive Samantha Page also said the 'welcome' policy should be brought forward.

'We are disappointed that changes are planned to come in to effect in 2022, meaning many families currently using child care won't have any relief,' she said.

Labor announced a child care policy in October which would also remove the annual $10,560 cap and slow down the rate at which the subsidy tapers off.

In the May 11 budget the government will increase subsidies for second children up to 95 per cent and remove the annual $10,560 cap on the Child Care Subsidy

Labor leader Anthony Albanese said his policy was better than the government proposal.

'By only providing increased subsidies for a second or subsequent child in the system, the announcement will make an already complicated system more complicated, and will cause confusion for families as to whether this reform will leave them any better off,' he said.

'In comparison, Labor's Cheaper Child Care Plan lifts the subsidy and smooths the taper rate across the board, regardless of how many children the family has or how old they are  leaving 97 per cent of families  or more than one million families - better off.'

Some voters slammed the government for not making the changes sooner.

'Another 'notional' announcement. No subsidy until the second half of 2022,' wrote on Twitter user.

'They copied from the ALPs policy - isn't due to go into effect until July NEXT year,' wrote another.
Australian home price growth is set to slow down in late 2021 following double-digit percentage surges since the worst of the Covid downturn.

National property values climbed by 1.8 per cent in April, a sharp comedown from March's 2.8 per cent pace which was the fastest since October 1988.

Since the short-lived Covid downturn in property prices ended in September last year, house and apartment prices have soared by 10.2 per cent.

Last month, property prices hit record highs in 63 of Australia's 88 real estate sub markets with prices falling in just four localised regions nationally, CoreLogic data showed.

CoreLogic's research director Tim Lawless said property values were likely to slow in coming months as the number of potential buyers thinned out at the record price levels.

That was good news for younger buyers who were now struggling to get onto the property ladder.

Australian home price growth is set to slow down in late 2021 following double-digit surges since the worst of the Covid downturn. A young couple wanting to buy a Sydney house, with a median price of $1.147million would need to save up $229,470 to fund a 20 per cent mortgage deposit. Pictured is a house at Auburn in the city's west with a price guide of $1.145million to $1.195million

Proof the young are missing out on a house SYDNEY: Up 2.8 per cent to $1,147,352 MELBOURNE: Up 1.4 per cent to $869,676 BRISBANE: Up 1.8 per cent to $621,806 ADELAIDE: Up 2.2 per cent to $526,155 PERTH: Up 0.9 per cent to $537,020 HOBART: Up 1.1 per cent to $600,774 DARWIN: Up 2.7 per cent to $534,332 CANBERRA: Up 2.1 per cent to $833,080 Source: CoreLogic Home Value Index for April 2021 covering median house prices Advertisement

'The slowdown in housing value appreciation is unsurprising given the rapid rate of growth seen over the past six months, especially in the context of subdued wages growth,' he said.

'With housing prices rising faster than incomes, it's likely price sensitive sectors of the market, such as first-home buyers and lower-income households, are finding it harder to save for a deposit and transactional costs.'

A young couple wanting to buy a Sydney house, with a median price of $1.147million would need to save up $229,470 to fund a 20 per cent mortgage deposit.

Sydney's mid-point house last month increased by 2.8 per cent - double the 1.4 per cent annual increase in Australian wages.

Weekend auction clearance rates in Australia's most populated city stood at 83.5 per cent.

Even the national property price of $624,997, covering both capital cities and regional areas, would be a stretch for someone earning an average, full-time salary of $89,000.

The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority, the banking regulator, is a concerned if a borrower is paying off more than six times their salary after a mortgage deposit is factored in.

That means borrowers can only really afford to service a mortgage if they are in a dual-income relationship.

In Melbourne, median house prices climbed by 1.4 per cent to $869,676.

In Melbourne, median house prices climbed by 1.4 per cent to $869,676. Pictured is a house at Altona in the city's west with a price guide of $870,000 to $950,000

Brisbane's equivalent value rose by 1.8 per cent to $621,806 as Adelaide's median house price grew 2.2 per cent to $526,155.

Perth's mid-point house price rose 0.9 per cent to $537,020 as Hobart's median detached home value increased by 1.1 per cent to $600,774.

In the territories, Darwin's median house price increased 2.7 per cent to $534,332 as Canberra's mid-point climbed 2.1 per cent to $833,080.

Westpac is expecting Sydney property price to surge by 16 per cent in 2021 before slowing to 5 per cent in 2022 and falling by 1 per cent in 2023.

CoreLogic's research director Tim Lawless said property price growth was likely to slow in coming months as affordability worsened. Pictured is an auction at Paddington in Sydney's inner east in February

With the Australian economy recovering strongly from the Covid downturn, the bank's statutory net profit for the first half of fiscal 2021 tripled, rising by 213 per cent to $3.443billion when compared with the first half of fiscal 2020.

The comparison periods covered September 2020 to March 2021 and September 2019 to March 2020.

First-home buyers made up 13 per cent of Westpac's new home borrowers in the six months to the end of March 2021.

Westpac chief executive Peter King said the bank was keeping an eye on borrowing struggling to repay loans, even though this wasn't an issue yet.

'While the economic outlook is more positive, there is still some uncertainty and we have remained prudent in our impairment provisioning,' he said.
Hillary Clinton has warned the US will face 'huge consequences' from President Joe Biden's decision to withdraw troops from Afghanistan.

The former secretary of state voiced her disapproval publicly for the first time in an interview with CNN on Sunday as violence erupted immediately after the US formally launched its withdrawal of 2,500 troops and began handing control back to the Afghan government.

Asked by CNN's Fareed Zakaria what she thought of the withdrawal decision, Clinton said: 'Well, it's been made. And I know it is a very difficult decision.

'This is what we call a wicked problem. You know there are consequences both foreseen and unintended of staying and of leaving. The president has made the decision to leave.'

Clinton said the US should be prepared for 'two huge consequences' - a collapse of the Afghan government and takeover by the Taliban, and a subsequent outpouring of refugees.

Her comments to CNN came two days after Axios reported that both she and Condoleezza Rice, who served as secretary of state under George W Bush, had voiced concerns over the withdrawal to the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

Hillary Clinton warned the US will face 'huge consequences' over President Joe Biden's decision to withdraw troops from Afghanistan in an interview with CNN on Sunday (pictured)

Clinton's warning came a day after the US formally passed control of Camp Antonik in the southern Helmand province to Afghan forces on Saturday (pictured)

CNN's @FareedZakaria speaks with former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and asks how she would grade President Biden's first 100 days in office. I give him an A, and Im a hard grader. pic.twitter.com/x0QkZB1nvv  CNN (@CNN) May 2, 2021

Explaining the two consequences she foresaw to CNN, Clinton said: 'One, the potential collapse of the Afghan government and a takeover of Afghanistan by the Taliban, probably with a resumption of civil war in certain parts of the country, but a largely Taliban-run government at some point in the not-too-distant future.

'How do we help and protect the many, many thousands of Afghans who worked with the United States and NATO, who worked with American and other NATO-connected contractors who stood up and spoke out for women's rights and human rights.

'I hope that the administration in concert with the Congress will have a very large visa program and will begin immediately to try to provide that channel for so many Afghans to utilize so that they are not left in danger.

'There will also be, I fear, a huge refugee outflow. And of course the second big set of problems revolves around a resumption of activities by global terrorist groups, most particularly Al Qaeda and the Islamic State.'

She concluded: 'It's one thing to pull out troops that have been supporting security in Afghanistan, supporting the Afghan military, leaving it pretty much to fend for itself, but we can't afford to walk away from the consequences of that decision.'

Clinton's fears appeared to be already coming into fruition as the Afghan defense ministry reported on Sunday that fighting between its forces and the Taliban had left more than 100 insurgents dead within 24 hours of the US officially beginning its withdrawal.

The ministry's report came after the US passed control of the Camp Antonik in the southern Helmand province to Afghan forces with a ceremonial changing of flags that fly over the base.

Officials did not say how many Afghan soldiers had been hurt in clashes with the Taliban across several provinces.

A US soldier and an Afghan National Army soldier shaking hands during a handover ceremony at Camp Antonik in the Helmand province on Saturday

US soldiers take down the American flag at Camp Antonik during a handover ceremony

On Friday - a day before the withdrawal began - Clinton and Rice appeared before the House Foreign Affairs Committee via Zoom to air their concerns, sources familiar with the meeting told Axios.

'A little disagreement on Afghanistan, but they both agreed we're going to need to sustain a counterterrorism mission somehow outside of that country,' one committee member told the outlet.

Condoleezza Rice (pictured) joined Clinton to voice concerns about the Afghanistan withdrawal in a House Foreign Affairs Committee meeting last week

They quoted Rice as saying: 'You know, we're probably gonna have to go back [to Afghanistan].'

House Rep. Mike McCaul, a Republican from Texas, also told Axios: 'With the potential for an Islamic State, coupled with what they're going to do to our contractors in Yemen and Afghanistan is, sadly, it's going to be tragic there and we all see it coming.'

Another member of the committee said that Clinton and Rice were concerned about what would happen to American diplomats on the ground after a troop withdrawal.

On April 14, Biden said he will withdraw remaining US troops from the 'forever war' in Afghanistan, declaring that the September 11 terror attacks of 20 years ago cannot justify American forces still dying in the nation's longest war.

His plan is to pull out all American forces - numbering 2,500 now - by this year's anniversary of the attacks, which were coordinated from Afghanistan.

Biden announced on April 14 that he would remove all remaining US forces from Afghanistan by September 11 of this year - the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks

Biden's top diplomat, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, admitted on Tuesday that a civil war or Taliban takeover in Afghanistan is 'certainly a possible scenario' when the US withdraws all its troops from the country by September 11.

Blinken told CNN 's Jake Tapper the Biden administration is 'planning for every scenario' that could arise from the move.

But he insisted the US is 'not disengaging from Afghanistan' and will continue to be 'deeply engaged' in supporting the country long after troops have left.

Soon after Biden made his announcement, NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg in Brussels said the alliance had agreed to withdraw its roughly 7,000 forces from Afghanistan, matching Biden's decision to begin a final pullout by May 1.

The US cannot continue to pour resources into an intractable war and expect different results, Biden said.

The drawdown would begin rather than conclude by May 1, which has been the deadline for full withdrawal under a peace agreement the Trump administration reached with the Taliban last year.

'It is time to end America's longest war,' Biden said, but he added that the US will 'not conduct a hasty rush to the exit.'

'We cannot continue the cycle of extending or expanding our military presence in Afghanistan hoping to create the ideal conditions for our withdrawal, expecting a different result,' said Biden, who delivered his address from the White House Treaty Room, the same location where Bush announced the start of the war.

'I am now the fourth United States president to preside over an American troop presence in Afghanistan. Two Republicans. Two Democrats. I will not pass this responsibility to a fifth.'

Biden's announcement, which he followed with a visit to Arlington National Cemetery, marks perhaps the most significant foreign policy decision in the early going of his presidency.

He's long been skeptical about the US presence in Afghanistan.

As Obama's vice president, Biden was a lonely voice in the administration who advised the 44th president to tilt towards a smaller counterterrorism role in the country while military advisers were urging a troop buildup to counter Taliban gains.

As secretary of state in the Obama administration, Clinton was more hawkish than both Obama and Biden.

In 2009, she supported a surge of 30,000 US troops to Afghanistan to counter gains made in the country by the Taliban.

Clinton was also a fierce supporter of regime change in Libya.

Rice was the chief foreign policy adviser to Bush, the architect of the American 'war on terror' after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.

In the wake of the attacks, the US invaded Afghanistan and Iraq.

Biden has also made clear he wants to recalibrate US foreign policy to face bigger challenges posed by China and Russia.

Withdrawing all US troops comes with clear risks.

It could boost the Taliban's effort to claw back power and undo gains toward democracy and women's rights made over the past two decades.

It also opens Biden to criticism, from mostly Republicans and some Democrats, even though former President Donald Trump had also wanted a full withdrawal.

'This administration has decided to abandon US efforts in Afghanistan which have helped keep radical Islamic terrorism in check,' said Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell.

'And bizarrely, they have decided to do so by September 11th.'

While Biden's decision keeps US forces in Afghanistan four months longer than initially planned, it sets a firm end to two decades of war that killed more than 2,200 US troops, wounded 20,000, and cost as much as $1trillion.
Senator Tim Scott has praised President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris for agreeing with him that America is 'not a racist country,' after critics attacked Scott with racial slurs over his rebuttal to Biden's joint address to Congress.

Scott, a South Carolina Republican, told CBS' Face The Nation on Sunday that he stood by his assessment that America is not racist, despite being pulled over 18 times for 'driving while black.'

'Let me say thank goodness that finally our president, our vice president and one of the leaders in the Democrat- Democrat caucus in the House, Jim Clyburn, have all come forward and said exactly what I've been saying for a long time. America is not a racist country,' Scott said in the interview.

'The question is, is there a lingering effect after a couple of centuries of racism and discrimination in this nation? The answer is absolutely,' he added.

Senator Tim Scott has praised President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris for agreeing with him that America is 'not a racist country'

Biden and Harris both agreed last week that all of America is not racist, but were quick to insist that historical injustice and racism can never be forgotten

Scott, who is black, drew furious backlash from the left over his rebuttal to Biden's speech, with the slur 'Uncle Tim' trending on Twitter for hours before the service banned it.

The phrase is a reference to the Uncle Tom character in Harriet Beecher Stowe's 1852 abolitionist novel, who has come to be viewed as a caricature of a subservient black slave who grovels for the approval of whites.

As well, a leading Democratic Party figure in Texas came under fire after he was accused of racism for referring to Scott as 'Oreo,' a reference to the Nabisco snack cookie that is used as a derogatory slur for a black person who is perceived as 'white on the inside.'

Gary O'Connor, the chair of the Democratic Party in Lamar County, made the remark in a Facebook post that has since been deleted. DailyMail.com has reached out to O'Connor seeking comment.

In an interview on Friday, Biden agreed America is not racist but said after years of Jim Crow law, communities of color have been left 'far behind' in comments that addressed the race struggle in country, which was reignited after the deaths of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor.

A leading Democratic Party figure in Texas came under fire after he was accused of racism for referring to Scott as 'an Oreo'

'Oreo' is a reference to the famous sandwich cookie made by Nabisco. It consists of two dark-colored wafers separated by a white, creme filling. In a racial context, 'Oreo' refers to a black person who is perceived as acting white

'No, I don't think the American people are racist,' Biden said. But, he noted, decades of Jim Crow laws - state and local statutes that legalized racial segregation - had left black Americans behind.

Tim Scott says he's been stopped 18 times for 'driving while black' 'I personally understand the pain of being stopped 18 times driving while black,' Senator Tim Scott said on Sunday. In 2016, Scott said in a Senate floor speech that he had been pulled over seven times in the past year, claiming that two of the traffic stops were for speeding, but that five had no apparent justification. "I've been stopped several times in the last three years in the Capitol and on the streets throughout the country. So I'm not having a conversation about some theory or philosophy," he added in Sunday's interview. Advertisement

'I think after 400 years, after communities have been left in a position where they're so far behind in terms of education, health, in terms of opportunity, I don't think America's racist but I think the overhang from all of the Jim Crow, and before that slavery has had a cost that we have to deal with,' he said.

On Thursday, Harris also agreed that America is not a 'racist country' but said the nation must 'speak the truth' about its history with racism.

In his interview on Sunday, Scott argued that the important question is not whether America as a whole is racist, but how to best address the historical legacy of racial inequality in the country.

'The question we should be debating and fighting over is how do we resolve those issues going forward,' he said.

'One side says I'm going to take from some to give to others. Fighting bigotry with bigotry is hypocrisy. It just doesn't work,' said Scott. 'The second- our side, what I've suggested is let's expand opportunity and make sure that we are fully equipped for the challenges of the future.'

'One of the reasons why we have fought for and won the highest level of funding for historically black colleges, Republicans leading that fight is because I understand that if I could level the playing field in education, we will actually see human flourishing like we've never seen before,' he continued.

Scott blasted government programs that benefit one race exclusively, pointing to a recent measure that assists black farmers but not white farmers and saying 'that doesn't really work.'

In his rebuttal speech last week, Scott said: 'Hear me clearly: America is not a racist county'

In the interview, Scott also briefly alluded to his own experience being racially profiled by the police when discussing police reform.

'I personally understand the pain of being stopped 18 times driving while black,' he said.

In 2016, Scott said in a Senate floor speech that he had been pulled over seven times in the past year, claiming that two of the traffic stops were for speeding, but that five had no apparent justification.

'I also have seen the beauty of when officers go door-to-door with me on Christmas morning delivering presents to kids in the most underserved communities. So I think I bring an equilibrium to the conversation,' Scott said on Sunday.

Scott said he was working with Senate Republicans to reach a compromise with Democrats on police reform.

One key sticking point is qualified immunity, which protects civil servants, including police officers, from individual lawsuits when acting in the course of their duties.

Democrats want to eliminate qualified immunity, which they say is a shield for bad behavior, but Scott indicated that he seeks a compromise that would make it easier to sue police departments, rather than individual officers.

'Significant numbers in my party have already said to me, we will go where you go on this issue as long as I can explain my position. And we're going to do that,' he said.
A masked raider dressed in an orange boiler suit smashed his way into a jewellery store in a terrifying heist.

Cops say the man, who used a sledgehammer to smash down a glass door, was joined by an accomplice in a stolen getaway car.

The two men stole watches, pearls and other jewellery from the store on Bair Street in Leongatha, Victoria, on February 21 at about 2.45am after stealing a black Lexus SUV.

One of the offenders wore a disposable orange jumpsuit and repeatedly smashed through the glass front doors of the shop, causing extensive damage.

Two men broke into jewellery store on Bair Street in Leongatha, Victoria on February 21

One offender donned a disposable orange jumpsuit and was armed with a sledgehammer

The second man - dressed in a grey beanie and navy tracksuit pants - looted the premises and stole valuables from display cases before hiding the items in a dark backpack.

The pair continued to raid the store with a crowbar before stashing the jewellery into the Lexus and fleeing the scene.

Victoria Police said the vehicle was stolen from a property on Dunbar Grove in Churchill, Victoria on February 15 before reappearing at the robbery.

The SUV was found by officers burnt out near Rices Road in Rosedale nearly two weeks following the theft on February 27.

Police are encouraging anyone who recognises the pair to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000

The second man looted the premises and hid the stolen valuables in a dark coloured backpack

The pair stole watches, pearls and jewellery from the store on Bair Street in Victoria
A whistleblower who ran the Pentagon's top-secret UFO program has warned a soon-to-be-released report on unidentified aerial phenomena could reveal the greatest US intelligence failings since 9/11.

Luis Elizondo, the former head of the Advanced Aerospace Threat Identification Program (AATIP), told The Sun he had seen 'very very compelling' data that confirmed the existence of technologically advanced UFOs.

A highly-anticipated report on unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP) is due to be released by the Director of the National Intelligence and the Department for Defense by June 1 .

And Elizondo says if Pentagon officials reveal that the US has been 'leapfrogged technologically by a foreign adversary' such as China or Russia it would constitute an intelligence failure 'on the level of 9/11'.

Elizondo said recently-revealed footage of strange, tic-tac shaped flying objects buzzing US military ships were real - and says it is time that the Government told the public what it knew about them.

He told The Sun: 'There is something in our skies, we don't know what it is, we don't know how it works, we don't know fully what it can do, we don't know who is behind the wheel, we don't know its intentions, and there isn't a damn thing we can do about it.'

Lawmakers on the House Intelligence Committee ordered Defense officials to explain the frequent sightings of strange flying objects spotted by military in the hope it will dispel some of the rumor and fear surrounding them.

Elizondo said people should manage their expectations around what will be contained in the report.

Luis Elizondo, the former head of the Advanced Aerospace Threat Identification Program (AATIP),

One of the images leaked from the Pentagon report appears to be a pyramid-shaped object (pictured) hovering over the USS Russell

These images were leaked from a Pentagon task force and obtained by by investigative filmmaker Jeremy Corbell, who confirmed their authenticity

UFOs or a rival military power? What in the world is behind all these mysterious drone sightings... Since the 1960s, there have been dozens of encounters with unidentified aerial phenomena. Possible explanations include: 1. The US military. It has been secretly designing and testing unmanned aircraft for decades. This would seem the most plausible explanation, given the US spends more on defense than the next 10 countries combined. 2. Another military power such as China or Russia has developed its own advanced drone weaponry. If so they would have had to make extraordinary technological breakthroughs and managed to keep them out of the public eye. 3. A private company built the UFOs and wanted to test them out in a high-stakes stand-off with the US military. Both Elon Musk with SpaceX and Jeff Bezos's Blue Origin have spent billions of dollars on space exploration programs, so perhaps it's not out of the question. 4. The drones are in fact the creations of alien life forms, in which case Mulder was right all along about the truth being 'out there'. Advertisement

Elizondo headed the AATIP from 2007 to 2012, as part of a $22 million program set up former Nevada Senator Harry Reid to investigate the UAP.

In March, it was revealed that US Navy warships stationed off the coast of Los Angeles encountered swarms of mysterious drones, which pursued them at high speed in low visibility in 2019.

The series of encounters with suspected UAVs, or unmanned aerial vehicles, in July 2019, saw as many as six mystery aircraft swarm several US Navy warships close to a sensitive training area at the Channel Islands.

The head of the United States Navy Admiral Michael Gilday later admitted he had no idea where a swarm of mysterious Tic Tac-shaped drones that menaced four US destroyers originated.

Gilday's response appears to rule out the theory that the drones could have come from a secret US military program.

That has led to growing speculation that they were either built by a rival military power or 'something else beyond our understanding is going on'.

In an interview last week, Reid said the 2019 incident had confirmed to him the need for the US to establish a UFO program to investigate the phenomena.

In an interview with Mysterywire.com, Reid, who has pushed before for a UFO program, discussed the potential origin of the mysterious flying objects, which the interviewer suggested may be Chinese.

'Always remember, Russia, the former Soviet Union, is run by a man who ran the KGB. They had as many as 30,000 agents at one time, KGB agents. So, Russia's involved in this, no question about it,' Reid said.

He added that UFOS were 'something that cannot be ignored' and that President Joe Biden should be briefed on the matter.

'I believe that there should be an ongoing entity, within the Pentagon would be the best place for it, whose sole job is to stay on top of the issue of UFOs,' Reid said.

While Senate majority leader, Reid pushed to launch the Advanced Aerospace Threat Identification Program, a Pentagon-run effort to study reports of UFOs.

The $22million-program began in 2007 and ended in 2012, according to the Pentagon.

In the most recent documented encounter in July 2019, USS destroyers on patrol were suddenly swarmed by flashing, Tic Tac-shaped drones, which were able to travel long distance at high speeds

The USS Gonzalez, a guided-missile destroyer, is in the same class as the naval ships targeted by drones in a brazen attack off the coast of California in 2019. It uses a high-tech an onboard intelligence team known as a SNOOPIE to track unknown flying objects

The USS Kidd, pictured above in 2011, was one of four Navy destroyers swarmed by sophisticated drones in 2019. An investigation has failed to uncover the origin of the drones

A detailed account of the 2019 encounter published by The Drive shows the drama began on the night of July 14 2019.

Deck logs from the USS Kidd show that just before 10pm that night two drones were spotted.

An onboard intelligence crew responsible for documenting and investigating contact with unknown vessels - known as the Ship Nautical Or Otherwise Photographic Interpretation and Exploitation team - or SNOOPIE - was engaged to figure out who, or what, the mystery flying objects were.

Within a few minutes of the sighting, reports show the USS Kidd moved into quiet mode, minimizing communications as it sought to work what the threat level was.

It contacted a nearby warship also on patrol, the USS Rafael Peralta, who also engaged their onboard photo intelligence team, or SNOOPIE.

Several other US Navy destroyers on patrol nearby began noticing strange lights.

The USS John Finn also reported UAV activity, and noticed a 'red flashing light' at 10:03pm, according to its logbook.

Just over an hour later at 11:23pm, the USS Rafael Peralta spotted a white light hovering over the flight deck.

The drone was able to remain hovering above the destroyer's helicopter landing pad while traveling at speeds of 16 knots and in low visibility.

The nearly 90-minute encounter was well beyond the capability of commercially-available drones.

The next night, the drones returned, this time as the warships were patrolling closer to the Californian mainland.

They were first spotted by the USS Rafael Peralta and the ship's SNOOPIE team was engaged at 8:39pm.

At 8:56pm, logs show the USS Kidd had also come into contact with drones.

'The drones seem to have pursued the ships, even as they continued to maneuver throughout the incident,' The Drive reported.

Logbooks onboard the USS Russell show drones were swarming all over it, dipping in elevation from 1000 to 700 feet and seemingly able to move in any direction.

The USS Russell had separate contact with drones nine occasions in less than an hour.

Then at 9:20pm that night, the USS Kidd noticed 'multiple UAVs' around the ship.

US warships have state-of-the-art detection systems, but an investigation by the US Navy chief and the FBI has been unable to discover the origin of drones

The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Porter shows off its high-tech weaponry

The USS Rafael Peralta was also swarmed by as many as four drones. It was contacted by a passing cruise ship, the Carnival Imagination, to say they too had spotted up to six drones.

The three-hour frenzy of activity continued until close to midnight, with none of the warships able to say with certainty where the drones had come from.

The Navy's top commanders including the Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) and commander of the Pacific Fleet were notified.

The Los Angeles bureau of the FBI was also brought in to look at the incident.

An initial investigation found that just a handful of civilian ships were in the area at the time that could have been used as landing pads for the drones.

Investigators suspected the drones may have been launched from the ORV Alguita, a catamaran in the area.

And while the Alguita did have drones onboard, it was soon established its aircraft were not capable of such aeronautical feats.

Naval intelligence was brought in on the investigation and it was soon turning its glare inwards.

The area is home to a large US Naval Base on Sam Clemente Island, where sensitive training operations are often undertaken.

Soon afterward, the Navy classified the investigation, preventing further information from being released to The Drive.

There were further drone sightings later in July 2019, with SNOOPIE teams aboard the destroyers again being called on to identify the drones and work out where they were coming from.

The bizarre incident was first noticed by filmmaker Dave Beaty, a UFO researcher who UFOs.

In June 2020, he Tweeted: 'Did the navy ship #USSKidd #DDG100 encounter a UAP in July 2019 in So Cal OPAREA Trying to find out more. The ship logs indicate a 'Snoopy Team' was deployed - an intel section that tries to visually ID objects. DM if you know more. Near San Clemente island.'

Later, relaying information he'd received from a Navy source, Beaty said a crew member on board 'could see them with the naked eye and they were almost eye level with the bridge hovering'.

'They were the same tic-tac shaped objects.'

Beaty said the sightings occurred in the same areas as another infamous UFO sighting in 2004 which became known as the 'Nimitz Encounters', when at least six Super Hornet pilots made visual or instrument contact with the UFO on November 14, 2004.

The clip became one of the most-touted pieces of evidence in the UFO community when the Pentagon confirmed its authenticity in 2017.

In January, Chad Underwood, the former Navy aviator who shot the famous leaked video clip, broke his silence in an interview with New York Magazine.

He said the oblong, wingless 'Tic Tac' shaped object was spotted off the coast of Mexico over the Pacific.

The encounters, which are documented in numerous interviews with first-hand witnesses, remain a mystery, and the object's incredible speed and movements have led to speculation that it was extraterrestrial in origin.

The original FLIR video from the USS Nimitz encounters leaked online as early as 2007.

Witnesses say that clips of the video had been circulated widely on the Navy's intranet - used to communicate between ships in the carrier group - and an unknown sailor in the group likely first leaked it.
Dominic Raab will press his new American counterpart to light a fire under a new transatlantic trade deal as they meet for the first time in London today.

The Foreign Secretary will hold face-to-face talks with secretary of state Antony Blinken in London as the US and Britain forge a fresh relationship after Joe Biden replaced Donald Trump in the White House.

There were hopes that a deal could be done with the Trump administration before last November's presidential election, but they were stymied by the emergence of the coronavirus pandemic.

Experts have suggested it will be 2022 at least before a deal is agreed between the two nations.

Mr Biden's administration is seen as being cooler towards the United Kingdom, over issues including Brexit. In 2019 Mr Blinken described Brexit as a 'total mess' in a podcast interview, adding: 'This is not just the dog that caught the car, this is the dog that caught the car and the car goes into reverse and runs over the dog.'

The bilateral discussions come ahead of a meeting of G7 foreign ministers in the UK that starts with dinner tonight that will also focus on tackling the growing threat of China and ways to tackle climate change.

Antony Blinken (pictured today at a bilateral meeting with Japan's Toshimitsu Motegi) is in London for talks as the US and Britain forge a fresh relationship following the departure of Donald Trump from the White House

Mr Raab (pictured also meeting Toshimitsu Motegi today), will hope to add fresh impetus to trade talks with the US

There has been some signs of hope for the trade deal in recent months.

In March Washington agreed to suspend punitive tariffs on Scotch whisky and other UK exports that had been imposed as part of an EU trade dispute.

The Biden administration agreed to separate Britain from the EU package and suspend tariffs on the affected UK goods for four months while further talks take place.

It meat an end for now to the 25 per cent tariff on Scotch, which has hammered exports to the US. It could also smooth the path to a wider post-Brexit trade deal with the US in the coming months. The US is Britains biggest export market.

The G7 meeting is the first for two years due to the coronavirus pandemic. The withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan is likely to feature, as is Iran, where the nuclear deal is a key issue and so too are citizens being detained there, including Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe.

India's external affairs minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar will also attend the G7, as the UK commits support to the nation dealing with a worsening surge of coronavirus.

Ahead of the meeting, the Foreign Office said the G7 ministers will invest 15 billion US dollars (10.9 billion) in development finance over the next two years to help women in developing countries access jobs, build resilient businesses and recover from the impacts of Covid-19.

They are also expected to sign up to new targets to get 40 million more girls into school, and 20 million more girls reading by the age of 10 in poorer nations by 2026.

But the commitments come as Mr Raab faces sustained criticism for cuts to foreign aid, from 0.7 per cent of national income to 0.5 per cent, citing the financial impact of the pandemic.

The cuts to overseas aid spending have been described as 'devastating' for women and girls around the world.

As well as the G7 members, Australia, India, Japan, South Korea and South Africa have also been invited as the UK tries to deepen ties with the Indo-Pacific region.

Regular testing, size limits and other measures have been pledged to prevent the spread of Covid-19 during the discussions.

Mr Raab on Sunday defended the cut to foreign aid spending as 'necessary' due to the 'seismic impact of the pandemic on the UK economy'.

As well as the G7 members, Australia, India, Japan, South Korea and South Africa have also been invited as the UK tries to deepen ties with the Indo-Pacific region. Pictured: US President Joe Biden

But, as the effects of the cuts have trickled out, the United Nations Population Fund blasted the 85 per cent cut to its reproductive health agency as 'devastating' for women, girls and their families.

On Saturday, it emerged Unicef will have its UK funding cut by about 60 per cent.

The United Nations agency warned that the world's most vulnerable children will 'suffer the consequences' of the Government's move.

A leaked memo also suggested that the UK will slash bilateral funding for overseas water, sanitation and hygiene projects by more than 80 per cent  a move WaterAid described as 'savage'.

And a report by media outlet Devex said ministers are planning to reduce funding for polio eradication by 95 per cent.
A woman on Pier Landing Loop Road called 911 Saturday night when her intoxicated former boyfriend blasted her back door open with a shotgun, according to the release. She and her two children were inside. There was screaming during the 911 call before it was disconnected.
Melbourne employees are being encouraged to return to the CBD with a range of incentives after more than a year of working from home amid the pandemic.

The City of Melbourne council have offered workers free $50 vouchers, doughnuts, cocktails and cheaper parking as part of its 'FOMO Fridays' incentive.

Workers can access the promotion every Friday from May 14 through to June 4.

The deals include King & Godfree hampers in Carlton, doughnuts from Bourke Street Mall and cocktails in Chinatown.

The deals include King & Godfree hampers in Carlton, doughnuts from Bourke Street Mall and cocktails in Chinatown

Every Friday from the May 14 until June 4 between 4-9pm, workers can visit Myer's Express Yourself mani bar at The Strand for a free 'glow ups' and champagne.

Part of the campaign also gives customers 25 per cent off parking in the city when pre-booked through the Wilson Parking app.

Wittner shoes and Mouche jewellery are offering 20 per cent off, while movie passes can be won at the District Docklands.

The council has teamed up with the Victorian Government for the $100m Melbourne City Recovery Fund.

'Trackies and Zoom meetings will be unofficially banned as FOMO Fridays gives all workers another reason to return to their city workplaces and end the work week on a high,' Lord Mayor Sally Capp said.

'FOMO Fridays is a great way to reward city workers returning and provide a major boost to retail and hospitality businesses across the City of Melbourne.

'Every extra person in the city is a chance for local businesses to get another dollar in the till.'
This heartwarming footage of a pet pooch and wild magpie holding hands while sleeping together in bed has gone viral.

Sweet English staffy Peggy was quick to alert her owner Juliette, 45, after finding a small magpie that had been left for dead while out on their usual daily walk back in September last year.

Juliette from Coomera, Queensland, Australia, said that while her adorable one-year-old pup is usually terrified of magpies, she was very concerned about this little bird.

The artist and her partner Reece, 52, obtained advice from a local wildlife specialist about how to best nurse the magpie back to health - and within a week, she had made a full recovery.

An adorable video showing a staffy called Peggy and a rescued magpie appearing to hold hands in bed has gone viral

But after spending everyday with loving Peggy by her side, the magpie - which Reece named Molly - did not want to leave, despite being the couple persuading her to fly back into nature.

Now the adorable duo have gone viral, racking up a whopping 2.4 million views on a TikTok video that shows the loving pair appearing to hold hands while in bed.

Juliette said: 'Never in my wildest dreams would I have imagined a video I recorded of these two doing what they do best every day, being cute playing and snuggling together, would reach over 2Million people

'We've had messages of love flooding in from all over the world.

Juliette, 45, from Queensland, Australia, said that her staffy is usually terrified of magpies but was concerned when this small one was left for dead

'Before I put this video out there in the world I watched it one more time I knew it would be a popular one.

'But when the numbers started clicking over straight away, that's when I knew this was really special.

'I was checking every hour and ringing my partner as the numbers grew quickly.

'He told me he thought this video would reach 2 million but I didn't believe him.

'I feel really proud that I can use my skills to showcase these two in their natural environment just being them.'

But after spending everyday with loving Peggy by her side, the magpie - which Juliette's partner Reece, 52, named Molly - did not want to leave, despite being the couple persuading her to fly back into nature

Molly the magpie became obsessed with Peggy and the pair became inseparable - with loving Peggy even producing breastmilk for the bird.

She said: 'We were taking Peggy for a walk when she discovered this little magpie that was all by itself. She looked really weak and not well at all.

'We know a wildlife specialist who told us how to care for her. She slept for the first 24 hours, we didn't think she was going to make it.

'We got her some live worms and a dropper with water, and within a week she had picked up.

Molly the magpie became obsessed with Peggy and the pair became inseparable as Juliette said the unlikely pals 'have their own little language and talk to each other', adding that it is 'funny to watch'

'We always leave all the doors and windows open and have tried to get her to fly back into nature but she has no interest in leaving us.

'We've been teaching her to catch her own worms and lizards.. But she really thinks she is a dog, she runs around after Peggy.

'Molly thinks Peggy is her mum, and Peggy thinks she is her daughter.

'They have their own little language and talk to each other. It's so funny to watch.'

Juliette was shocked after her pup began producing milk, despite not being pregnant.

But after taking her to the vet, she discovered it was because Peggy thinks Molly is her baby, and was producing milk in the same way as if she had puppies.

The couple have been teaching Molly the magpie to catch her own worms and lizards, but Juliette said that she 'really thinks she's a dog' and 'runs around after Peggy'

Juliette was shocked after her pup began producing milk, despite not being pregnant, and so took her to the vet where she discovered it was because she thought Peggy was her baby, and was producing milk in the same way as if she'd had puppies

She said: 'We actually had to take Peggy to the vet because she was having a phantom pregnancy.

'She began producing milk involuntarily because she thought of Molly as being her puppy.

'Molly kept poking at her nipples too, so for now Peggy is wearing shirts until it passes so her nipples are covered.

'It's crazy to think that this could happen, but it just shows their amazing bond.'

Juliette said Molly does not seem to have any plans to fly away anytime soon and even sleeps at the top of her curtain rod in the bedroom, while Peggy sleeps in her bed.

Juliette said that Peggy and Molly are together 'from the moment they wake up' until they go to sleep, cuddling and playing all day

She added: 'They are together from the moment they wake up until when they go to sleep.

'Then they'll cuddle and play all day. It's so lovely to see them together.

'They definitely have a mother-daughter type of bond. Peggy needed something to nurture, and this little bird needed nurturing.

'We are happy for Molly to stay with us as long as she wants to, but she knows she is free to fly away anytime.

'We're blown away by their relationship, they have bought so much joy into our lives.'
Donald Trump relaxed rules for counterterrorism operations outside war zones and gave more control to commanders on the ground when he took over the White House.

Joe Biden's administration on Friday unsealed a set of rules secretly issued by his predecessor in 2017 which are now being reviewed by the White House to see if they should be tightened.

The 11-page document revealed how Trump gave commanders the authority to launch attacks - such as drone strikes and commando raids - if they fit under a broad set of operating principles, including a requirement of 'near certainty' that no harm would come to civilians.

The rules were flexible when it came to exceptions, stipulating that 'variations' could be made 'where necessary'.

Trump's policy marked a dramatic departure from the bureaucratic approach adopted by his predecessor Barack Obama, who had introduced strict controls following criticism over the frequency and secrecy of attacks during his first term.

Donald Trump relaxed rules for counterterrorism operations outside war zones and gave more control to commanders on the ground when he took over the White House

The Biden administration on Friday unsealed rules for counterterrorism operations - such as drone strikes and commando raids - that were secretly issued by Trump in 2017 (file photo)

A New York district judge ordered the release of the rules in October in response to Freedom of Information Act lawsuits by The New York Times and the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).

Some passages were censored in the final version released to the plaintiffs on Friday, which was titled: 'Principles, Standards, and Procedures for U.S. Direct Action Against Terrorist Targets.'

The rules permit US direct action against lawfully targeted terrorists 'whose removal, either independently or as part of a broader campaign, is determined to be reasonably necessary to U.S. efforts to address the threat posed by the terrorist group'.

They state: 'The United States will continue to take extraordinary measures to ensure with near certainty that noncombatants will not be injured or killed in the course of operations, using all reasonably available information and means of verification.'

At the heart of the debate over the rules is a portion which reads: 'Variations to the provisions in this section may be made where necessary' - so long as they adhere to other laws and guidelines.

National Security Council spokeswoman Emily Horne declined to comment on the rules, merely telling the Times: 'We'll let the previous administration speak to their policies.'

Biden had suspended the Trump-era rules on his first day in office and adopted a new policy requiring the White House to sign off on proposed strikes outside of war zones in Afghanistan, Iraq and Syria

Biden had suspended the Trump-era rules on his first day in office and adopted a new policy requiring the White House to sign off on proposed strikes outside of war zones in Afghanistan, Iraq and Syria.

His administration also launched a review of policies from both Trump and Barack Obama to see how well they worked and what changes should be made in the Biden era.

Officials said that review found Trump's rules for strikes often made exceptions to the 'near certainty' rule for avoiding civilian casualties - particularly when it came to adult men.

Brett Max Kaufman, a senior staff lawyer with the ACLU's Center for Democracy, blasted the rules, telling the Times that they 'stripped down even the minimal safeguards President Obama established in his rules for lethal strikes outside recognized conflicts'.

'Secretive and unaccountable use of lethal force is unacceptable in a rights-respecting democracy, and this program is a cornerstone of the "forever wars" President Biden has pledged to end. He needs to do so,' Kaufman said.

Thomas P Bossert, one of Trump's top counterterrorism advisers who helped oversee interagency development of the rules in 2017, defended the policy and said it 'should not be dismissed or replaced without careful consideration and an examination of the results it produced'.

'I stand by the policies I helped produce,' Bossert told the Times. 'They were informed by American values, the principles of the laws of armed conflict, and tailored to combat the real and present threat to America and her allies.'

A review found Trump's rules for strikes often made exceptions to the 'near certainty' rule for avoiding civilian casualties - particularly when it came to adult men (file photo)

The Times reported that Biden's review and deliberations over a new direct-action policy, which were originally expected to take 60 days, are likely to be extended to six months.

Officials familiar with the policy discussions said they had been complicated by Biden's recent decision to withdraw all 2,500 remaining US troops from Afghanistan by the anniversary of the September 11 terror attacks this fall.

That withdrawal was formally launched on Saturday as the US passed off control of a key air base, Camp Antonik.

It remains unclear where the US will base regional assets like drones after the withdrawal, which would make operations in Afghanistan subject to the rules governing unconventional war zones.

Counterterrorism strikes outside conventional war zones became common under President George W Bush following the 9/11 terror attacks in 2001 and then continued during Obama's first term.

In 2013 Obama introduced a new set of rules aimed at curtailing such operations - which made it so each proposed strike was subject to a high-level, interagency review to determine the risk posed by a target.

Shortly after taking office, Trump replaced Obama's system in October 2017 with a more flexible and decentralized one of his own, as outlined in the rules released Friday.

Trump's system allowed commanders in the field to decide whether to target suspects based on their membership in terrorist groups, rather than the threat they posed as individuals.

Experts say they expect Biden to come up with his own system which is tighter than Trump's but less bureaucratic than Obama's.
Parents in a rural Ohio town have hit out at a high school after the students voted a lesbian couple as their senior prom king and queen.

Annie Wise was named Prom Queen, and her girlfriend Riley Loudermilk was named Prom King in a student vote at Kings High School in Kings Mills, a deeply conservative area of Ohio, on April 17.

But some of the parents were less than impressed with the students' choice, and voiced their complaints at a heated school meeting as well as on social media.

The meeting was held a week after the prom was held at the school district 26 miles northeast of Cincinnati.

'Sorry but, I believe that there are still two genders, a male and a female,' one parent said at the heated meeting, WLWT reported.

She continued: 'I think tradition stands for a queen that has a vagina, a king that has a penis and testicles. Period. That's the way it should stand. that is the way God has intended it to be.'

But not all of the parental reaction was negative. Another parent who spoke at the meeting was supportive, saying she admired their generation 'for their thirst of knowledge and understanding, their strength to stand up for what they believe in'.

Scroll down for video

Riley Loudermilk, left, was named queen and Annie Wise, right, king of their senior prom at High School in Kings Mills, Ohio

An unnamed parent attended a Kings High School meeting the week after the prom to complain about the school naming the two teens king and queen

When the Kings School District posted a photo of the couple to its Facebook page, it was soon swamped with negative comments.

The district wrote: 'Congratulations to Kings High School 2021 Prom King and Queen,' along with a photo of Wise and Loudermilk wearing crowns and sashes.

But one of the commenters said the girls needed to get 'Jesus' into their life.

Prom Queen Loudermilk, 18, told NBC that the school's social media administrators struggled to keep up and delete negative comments as they swamped the page.

Another parent hit out at the school in general, complaining: 'It's been brought to my attention that at least one teacher who flies not only the BLM flag, but also a gay pride flag, refuses to fly the American flag.'

Another hit out at the school's decision to put New York Times' best-selling book 'Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You' on an English class reading list, calling the book racist, WLWT reports.

The couple, who have been dating for six months, received many negative comments on social media, and one parent complained at a heated school meeting that 'there are still two genders, a male and a female'

Traci Loudermilk, above, mother of Riley, said she was 'mad' about other adults commenting on her daughter

But there were also thousands of message of support for the couple, with many commenters praising the school and encouraging the teens to 'be their authentic selves'.

Dawn Goulding, a community relations coordinator for the school district, said they stood by the decision - which had been made by the couples' classmates.

'This is solely a Kings High School senior class nominated and voted-on initiative,' she told local affiliate WLWT.

Traci Loudermilk, mother of Riley, told CNN affiliate WLWT.com she was upset that adults were commenting on her daughter, who had been dating Wise for six months.

'It made me mad that adults were commenting on a high school dance.'

Riley Loudermilk told CNN she would never forget the moment she was told.

'Usually prom king and queen is like a popularity contest, and neither of us are really on that popularity spectrum.'

A photo posted on the Kings Local School District Facebook page received 2100 comments - despite the school struggling to keep up with deleting the negative ones

But the they said they had been pleasantly surprised by the largely positive reaction to their prom night in a deeply conservative part of Ohio

Wise added it was 'super overwhelming'. It was the best feeling in the world, definitely something I'll never forget.'

The teens said overall the experience had been a positive one, and their school was supportive of them being a lesbian couple.

'Some people are saying that they're proud that their kids go to such an accepting school,' Wise told CNN.

'There are some students that have told me that they're comfortable being gay at Kings and they're more comfortable with themselves now that they feel they have an accepting and supportive student body behind them.'

Kings Local School District describes itself as a high performing District in Ohio.
Mark Dixie (pictured), who was jailed for the brutal model of London teenager Sally Anne Bowman, was arrested but released without charge after a woman was assaulted while walking home in inner Perth in 1997

A former pub chef jailed for life over the horrific killing of a teenage hairdresser and model in the UK has been linked to a number of unsolved crimes in Australia including the assault of a woman for which he was arrested but released without charge.

Mark Dixie brutally raped and murdered 18-year-old Sally Anne Bowman near her home in Croydon, south London, in September, 2005, in a crime that shocked Britain. She was stabbed seven times.

Dixie was arrested the following year by chance after having a fight in a pub and was linked to Ms Bowman's gruesome murder through his DNA.

The depraved killer had lived and worked in Western Australia - including the Perth suburbs of Maylands, Subiaco, Como and Victoria Park - from 1996 to 1999 before being deported from Australia for overstaying his visa, the West Australian reported.

He had previously lived in Sydney since 1993, when he first arrived in Australia.

For the first time it has been revealed that in 1997, a year after Dixie's arrival in Western Australia, he was questioned by police after a woman was savagely assaulted while walking home in Victoria Park, inner Perth.

The woman was shoved to the ground by a man who held her down and only fled after she screamed for help.

Dixie was arrested nearby but never charged due to a lack of evidence as the woman could not positively identify her attacker.

He was also a suspect in the Claremont serial killings, which occurred between 1996 and 1997, until his DNA ruled him out.

Dixie was later linked to an attack on a 19-year-old female Thai university student inside her home in Leederville in June 1998.

Dixie in 2008 was ordered to served at least 34 years behind bars for the notorious murder of Ms Bowman (pictured), a hairdresser and model, in Croydon, south London, in 2005

The woman, who was stabbed seven times and raped while unconscious, testified during Dixie's 2008 trial for Ms Bowman's murder that a man had broken into her home before the attack unfolded.

The trial was told Dixie's DNA matched a sample that was taken from the woman's underwear.

No arrests were made. An identikit image was released following the attack, with the man described as having curly hair and about 25-years-old.

Dixie, who was 27 at the time, had been pictured over the years with curly hair.

Leading criminologist Dr David Keatley, from Murdoch University, told the West Australian it was likely Dixie had committed other crimes in the state and called for an inquiry and a review into DNA evidence.

'If time and resources permit, the police should be setting up a task force to see if he is responsible for other unsolved or unknown crimes,' Dr Keatley said.

'I agree that based on the pattern of evidence and cases that I have looked at it is highly likely that Mark Dixie is responsible for more crimes, almost certainly crimes of a sexual nature.'

Detective Superintendent Stuart Cundy, who lead the inquiry into Ms Bowman's murder, said outside court after Dixie was sentenced to a minimum of 34 years in February 2008 he was 'still convinced' the killer 'has done something somewhere in Australia'.

'If he has committed another shocking murder somewhere, it is in Australia,' Det-Supt Cundy said.

Dixie murdered Sally Ann Bowman (pictured), raping her as she lay dying from numerous stab wounds he had inflicted

Dixie, under the alias Shane Turner, was fined $716 in Busselton Magistrate's Court while living in Western Australia after being charged with wilful exposure, driving without a licence and possession of cannabis.

The wilful exposure charge came after a naked Dixie jumped out in front of a woman while she was out jogging in the Dunsborough area.

In 2015, Dixie sensationally admitted brutally raping a woman in Spain for which another man had spent nearly 12 years in prison.

Dixie broke down in prison and confessed to raping the Spanish woman in a drink and drug-fuelled rage in the seaside resort of Fuengirola in August 2003.

In 2017, Dixie admitted to raping another woman after ambushing her in a car park in 1987 and battering another victim with a knife sharpener in 2002.

He was handed two more life sentences for the two further sex attacks.

Western Australia Police revealed in 2015 it had no plans to extradite Dixie back to the state and the 1998 attack in Leederville had been 'exhaustively investigated'.

Western Australia Police were contacted for but declined to comment.
A female bushwalker has shared the fright she got from being targetted by a ploy she had read online was used to lure females into a potentially dangerous trap.

The woman posted to Facebook that she had returned to her car from the Knapsack Stairs walking track at the foot of the Blue Mountains in Glenbrook, New South Wales, to find a piece of red ribbon wrapped around her car door handle.

She immediately raised the alarm for 'anyone going bushwalking alone' after her suspicious discovery.

She had read that predators used the tactic of tying something around door handles to slow down the process of victims getting into their cars, giving them time to abduct or assault them.

A female hiker at the knapsack stairs walking track in Glenbrook issued a warning when she found a piece of string wrapped around the door handle of her vehicle.

Other women in the United States have also spotted red ribbon tied to their vehicles which are reportedly used to distract and kidnap drivers (pictured)

'I've seen online that people do this to distract you when you're going to the car so that you take time to see it and untie it,' she wrote on Facebook.

'There was a guy near my car at the time and when he saw my partner he walked away.'

She also called Penrith police who reportedly sent police patrols to the area to investigate.

The female hiker has issued a warning for other woman to 'stay safe' and 'be aware' of the potential risks.

'If you see ribbon of any kind on your door handle, avoid the car and seek help.'

The woman returned from the knapsack stairs walking track in Glenbrook (pictured) when she found ribbon tied to her car and a man near her vehicle

NSW Police told Daily Mail they have no comment on the alleged incident.

An American TikToker named Shannon, 20, recently shared a video online after she left a shopping centre's parking lot and noticed two cars had pieces of string wrapped around the door handles.

'WTF is this a joke? Somebody better not get kidnapped,' she wrote.

She soon noticed another car with a similar piece of material, also on the driver's side door handle.

'We found a second one. I'm getting out of here,' she wrote.

But the theory that ribbons are used to aid in the kidnap of women had been debunked by some - with authorities in the US branding the claims 'ridiculous' in 2019.

TikTok users have been sharing a widely-debunked theory that kidnappers tie string to car door handles in an attempt to kidnap vulnerable women
A Pakistani sailor who escaped quarantine by jumping off a livestock ship and sneaking into Australia has tested negative to Covid.

There was a frantic overnight manhunt after the crew member escaped the MV Polaris when it was moored at a port in Townsville, North Queensland, on Saturday.

It is understood the crewman left the dock in a white van on Saturday at around 8pm before turning himself into police on Sunday and being detained overnight.

The ship left Huanghua in China on April 12 and all crew were expected to quarantine on the vessel. Eleven other crew members have returned negative test results.

Livestock ship Polaris 3 (pictured) remains docked at Townsville after a crew member fled the ship and made it to land on Saturday night

Another 11 crew members also left the ship (pictured) and are trying to claim asylum in Australia

The eleven crew members were tested because they had walked off the boat onto the port, and on Monday morning they demanded asylum in Australia.

The Australian Border Force said they have cancelled their visas as a matter of course and are working with Queensland authorities on the safe quarantine and detention of the individuals.

The other sailors - reported to be Syrian - have not technically breached quarantine orders because they did not leave the jetty.

'Eleven crew members have been tested so far and all are negative. One further crew member has returned a negative test result this morning,' a Queensland Health spokesperson said on Monday.

The ship left China with hundreds of livestock onboard and spent 17 days at sea before docking at Townsville on Thursday.

Around 37 crew members are still on board the ship, which is understood to have left the port.
Writer Bari Weiss has slammed the continued obsession with mask-wearing among those who are fully vaccinated for COVID-19, saying it has become a way to signal virtue with no clear health benefits.

Weiss, a former staff editor for the New York Times opinion section, shared her views in a column on Sunday for subscribers to her influential Substack newsletter.

'There is no virtue in being permanently masked. There is no virtue in demanding zero risk. If there is, we wouldnt never jump in a swimming pool or get into a car,' she wrote.

'The message should be extremely simple: get vaccinated and get back to normal life,' Weiss continued.

Writer Bari Weiss has slammed the continued obsession with mask-wearing among those who are fully vaccinated for COVID-19, saying it has become an empty way to signal virtue

A woman wearing a mask walks her dog in Central Park on April 10, 2021 in New York City. The CDC now says masks are unnecessary outdoors for those who are fully vaccinated

Weiss, a conservative-leaning centrist, quit the Times spectacularly last summer citing 'constant bullying by colleagues who disagree with my views.'

Her independent newsletter has quickly become an influential source of information on the battle over 'woke' excesses in Manhattan's elite private schools.

In her latest column, she criticized both MSNBC host Joy Reid, who revealed that she wears two masks while jogging after getting fully vaccinated, and Fox News host Tucker Carlson, who urged viewers to 'call the police' if they see children wearing masks outdoors.

'No, you do not need to wear a mask, let alone two, when you are a vaccinated person outside jogging,' Weiss wrote.

'And no, you absolutely should not call the police or Child Protective Services on parents who still mask their children... Mind your own business,' she continued.

'Like almost everything these days in American life, it feels as if we are stuck between two deranged and morally confused options,' she wrote.

Last week, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued new guidance advising those who are fully vaccinated that masks are not necessary in uncrowded outdoor settings.

Weiss also slammed President Joe Biden's joint address to Congress last week as 'hygiene-theater' for the mandatory masks and elaborate social distancing protocols.

Weiss also slammed President Joe Biden's joint address to Congress last week as 'hygiene-theater' for the mandatory masks and elaborate social distancing protocols

Members of Congress were widely spaced and wore masks for the address, though all were eligible for the vaccine in December

'If I can walk into Wilsons Pharmacy in Pittsburgh without an appointment and get a shot five minutes later, and if the federal policy is that every American over the age of 16 can sign up to do the same, I have a hard time believing that every single person present in the chamber for Joe Bidens speech wasnt vaccinated weeks ago,' Weiss wrote.

'Yet we watched the spectacle of distancing and masking and elbow-bumping among the most powerful people in the country,' she continued.

Weiss is not the first to criticize the staging of Biden's address, after Washington Post columnist Leana S. Wen last week said that the president 'missed his biggest opportunity to reduce vaccine hesitancy.'

'If I didnt know better, I would have thought this was six months ago, before Americans had access to safe, highly effective vaccines,' Wen wrote.

'Imagine if Wednesdays joint session had required that all attendees be fully vaccinated. Those who were not vaccinated were not welcome. But those permitted in could walk into the room, take off their mask, sit next to one another, and listen to a presidential address  just as they did in 2019,' she continued.

In her column, Weiss also argued that those who had reveled in the 'virtue' of lockdown and took pleasure in scolding others for going to the beach had now embraced post-vaccination masking as a method of displaying their moral superiority.

'Masks, like shopping at Whole Foods or eating at Chick-fil-A, have become a totem in the culture war,' wrote Weiss. 'There is no virtue in perma-masking.'

A person wearing a mask rides an electric scooter in the rain in Central Park on March 31, 2021

The writer did urge her readers to 'suck it up and follow the rules' when visiting shops or restaurants.

'There is no reason the Italian restaurant we love around the corner is still insisting that we pull up the menu via QR Code,' she wrote.

'But you know what? Its just not worth getting into it. Its a good bet that anyone working a job in the service industry had a very hard year. Abide by the rules, even if they are weird, be polite and always tip at least 20 percent,' wrote Weiss.

Weiss pleaded with her readers to get vaccinated, saying that the odds of a serious adverse reaction to approved vaccines are less than being struck by lightning.

'We are privileged beyond belief to have the opportunity to get inoculated against this disease,' she wrote.

'I repeat: get vaccinated. And if you like, take a moment to thank God or the miracle of modern medicine that you have the option.'
Hundreds of Australians staying in popular holiday spots across Victoria are being struck down by a rare and debilitating mosquito-borne disease.

Ross River fever cases have surged over the past few months across East Gippsland, Greater Geelong and the Surf Coast, as residents have flocked to intrastate destinations to vacation.

The uncommon illness - which is usually found in northern Australia, Papua New Guinea, and other islands in the South Pacific - causes arthritic pain, fever, a rash, and chronic exhaustion.

Since the start of the year, 677 Victorians have been diagnosed with the virus, compared to just 28 at the same time in 2020 and 68 the year before.

More than 600 Victorians have been diagnosed with mosquito-borne illness Ross River fever since the start of this year as case numbers explode across East Gippsland, Greater Geelong and the Surf Coast. Pictured: Queenscliff

Intensive care nurse Bianca Dhollander was holidaying with her family in Queenscliff on the Bellarine Peninsula in January when she received a notification there was an outbreak in the area.

A week after returning from the trip, she developed fever, severe headaches, swollen hands and feet, joint pain, extreme exhaustion, and brain fog.

'It clicked in my mind that I may have it so I went to the GP and asked for a blood check. It came back positive,' Ms Dhollander told Daily Mail Australia.

'My feet and hands were swelling all of a sudden and I had hip pain. I couldnt fit my wedding ring anymore.'

'The pain feels like you have broken every bone, or that there are splinters of glass inside the joints. There is also a constant painful tingling due to the swelling.'

The mother-of-three is no stranger to tiredness - working permanent night shifts and caring for two sons who battle rare genetic conditions.

But this exhaustion is 'like nothing she has experienced before'.

Bianca Dhollander contracted Ross River fever in January while holidaying with her family (pictured) in Queenscliff, on the Bellarine Peninsula

'This is on a different level. The pain and fatigue are extreme. I'm shocked that I have pushed through for years researching at night, not sleeping because of my ill boys, and then it was a mosquito that finally broke me,' she said.

Ms Dhollander spent seven weeks off work before she was forced to return after using up all of her sick leave.

Three months later, she is still suffering severe exhaustion and swollen limbs, making it extremely painful to carry out daily activities.

And there is no end in sight.

'It has probably gotten work since I had to go back to work,' she said.

'There is no real treatment. Some people get better in weeks, but most suffer for months, even years.'

A spokesperson for research institute World Mosquito Program told Daily Mail Australia Ross River outbreaks are cyclic, with big and small years, based on climate conditions.

Surges tend to occur after a wet spring, which provided better breeding conditions for mosquitos.

Ms Dhollander has since been suffering from severe exhaustion and swollen limbs (her feet pictured) which make it painful to move and wear restrictive clothing

The large number of Victorians holidaying locally has also fuelled the spike, as more people are come into contact with the infected insects.

The Ross River virus is spread after a female mosquito feeds on the blood of an infected animal and gets the infection.

The virus then multiplies within the mosquito and is passed to other animals or people when the mosquito feeds again.

Ross River virus cannot be passed on from human-to-human.

She was forced to remove her wedding ring after her hands swelled and became stiff

People who are bitten by an infected mosquito might not develop symptoms at all.

Others however may experience flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, headaches and muscle/joint pain within a week of being bitten.

Some joints can become swollen or quite stiff, particularly in the morning. This could last for months for some people.

A rash may also occur on the body, arms or legs and usually disappears after seven to 10 days.

There is currently no treatment for the Ross River virus but medication may be consumed to help ease the pain of the symptoms.

To avoid getting mosquito bites and the risk of contracting the disease, it is recommended that loose fitted clothing is worn and mosquito repellent lathered on the skin.
Flights as cheap as $30 between major cities are up for grabs as airlines compete for customers after the Covid pandemic caused a horror downturn in business.

Regional airline Rex is offering full-service flights from Sydney to Melbourne from $39, while Jetstar has seats available between Melbourne and Sydney from $30.

The two airlines are fighting to win over travellers by offering low-fare flights for popular routes and to major tourist towns such as the Gold Coast.

Jetstar is offering flights with carry on baggage from Melbourne to Sydney (pictured) for as little as $30

Rex is offering full-service flights from Sydney to Melbourne (pictured) from as little as $39

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Early morning buses from Sydney to Tullamarine airport in Melbourne are being priced from $35, so Rex has dubbed their low cost flights a 'cheaper than the bus' deal.

The tickets are full service including free check in, baggage, food and drinks and are valid until August 28.

'The $39 fare between Sydney and Melbourne includes free 23kg check-in baggage and refreshments on board. Business class will be available from $299.'

Rex also offers a Covid refund policy for new bookings, guaranteeing moneyback for passenger cancellations caused by border closures or travel restrictions.

The airline is offering routes through major cities as well as seats for less than $200 to and from many regional centres.

Jetstar also has cheap flights on offer between major cities, including flights between Melbourne and Sydney from $30.

Flights between the two major cities will take up to 7kg worth of carry-on baggage for travel between May to the end of August, with an additional $21 for 15kg of checked baggage.

The airline is moving some of its international fleet to domestic routes, which it has said will create hundreds of jobs.

Around 30,000 Qantas and Jetstar employees lost their jobs in March last year due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Jetstar is offering flights from Melbourne to Adelaide (pictured) for as little as $32
What weve seen is that a lot of individuals have lost their jobs in certain fields, Conston said. People are having to be re-tooled, re-trained and re-skilled for different types of jobs now. By providing free tuition, that is an opportunity to open those doors so individuals can come back to college
Josh Duggar will be barred from living with his wife and kids at the family home in Arkansas if he is released on bail while awaiting trial on child pornography charges, a judge has ruled.

The former 19 Kids and Counting star, 33, is facing charges of receiving and possessing material depicting the sexual abuse of children.

After entering his not guilty plea at a court in Arkansas on Friday, US Chief Magistrate Judge Erin L. Wiedemann told Duggar that if he is released on bond, he would not be permitted to reside in a house with children, according to a release from the US Attorney's Office.

This would prohibit Duggar from returning to the home he lives in with wife Anna, and their six children, the eldest of which is just 11 years old.

Judge Wiedemann advised Duggar he would have to work out an alternative residence where he could stay while awaiting trial.

'Given the nature of the charges against him, the court would likely require a third-party custodian that he could reside with and that would ensure compliance with conditions of bond,' Judge Wiedemann said.

Josh and Anna Duggar, and their six children. Anna is pregnant with their 7th child while Josh is trying to make bail

'Were very sad about the whole thing, its horrible. Its all very sad,' Jill Duggar (right with her husband) said. Josh Duggar (left) pleaded not guilty to federal child porn charges on Friday during a virtual court hearing

Wiedemann said a probation officer would interview Duggar to determine his suitability for bail.

Duggar is accused of allegedly using 'the internet to download child sexual abuse material'.

Duggar allegedly possessed this material, some of which depicts the sexual abuse of children under the age of 12, in May 2019, according to the US Attorney's office.

It's not clear if any of Duggar's family would offer him accommodation while he awaits trial.

Several members of the family have spoken out since news of his arrest broke last week.

Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar said they still loved Josh and were praying for him after his arrest

Jinger Duggar, center, husband Jeremy Vuolo, left, who went shopping in Hollywood on Saturday, released a joint statement to say they were 'disturbed' to hear about the charges

Duggar's sister Jill told The Sun: 'Were very sad about the whole thing, its horrible. Its all very sad. Joshs wife Anna is pregnant with their seventh child, I cannot imagine how she is feeling.'

Jill's husband Derick tole The Sun that 'obviously if there is anything there related to child pornography, we hope that justice is done'.

Another of Josh's sisters, Jinger, and her husband, Jeremy, have also reacted to Duggar's charges after they were made public Friday.

'We are disturbed to hear of the charges against Josh. While this case must go through the legal system, we want to make it clear that we absolutely condemn any form of child abuse and fully support the authorities and judicial process in their pursuit of justice,' the couple wrote in a statement shared to Instagram.

Duggar's parents and fellow 19 Kids and Counting stars Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar also issued a statement Friday.

'We appreciate your continued prayers for our family at this time. The accusations brought against Joshua today are very serious,' they said in the statement obtained by People magazine.

'It is our prayer that the truth, no matter what it is, will come to light, and that this will all be resolved in a timely manner.'

They added: 'We love Josh and Anna and continue to pray for their family.'

A trial date for his case has been set for July 6, with a pre-trial hearing scheduled for July 1.

If convicted, Duggar faces up to 20 years of imprisonment and fines up to $250,000 on each count.
New Zealand is poised to open its borders further, allowing quarantine-free travel to the Cook Islands this month.

The New Zealand-aligned Pacific nation - 3233km north east of New Zealand - has been in negotiations for a travel bubble arrangement with Jacinda Ardern's government for months.

Rumours over opening dates have been swirling since Ms Ardern and Cook Islands PM Mark Brown confirmed they were working towards a May opening.

It's not yet clear whether the arrangements would also allow Australians or travellers from Australia to visit the Cook Islands

It's not yet clear whether the arrangements would also allow Australians or travellers from Australia to visit the Cook Islands

The Cook Islands have not recorded a single case of COVID-19 through the pandemic

Ms Ardern said she would give a date for the much-awaited opening later on Monday, following a cabinet meeting in Wellington.

'We will be having that discussion around our readiness on both sides and be looking to provide a date later this afternoon,' she said.

It's not yet clear whether the arrangements would also allow Australians or travellers from Australia to visit the Cook Islands, which has not recorded a single case of COVID-19 through the pandemic.

The tourism-dependent nation has been eager to re-open to New Zealand, which Ms Ardern acknowledged

Given its COVID-free status, Cook Islanders have been allowed to enter Aotearoa without a fortnight-long stay in quarantine since January

The tourism-dependent nation has been eager to re-open to New Zealand, which Ms Ardern acknowledged.

'Such a big part of their economy has been tourism and New Zealanders make up a large part of that,' she said.

'We wanted to make sure when we did it, we got it right.

'We don't want to run the risk of exporting COVID to the Cook Islands which has been COVID-free.

'The delay has not been anything to do with the Cooks but more making sure we are prepared in the event in which we have a case that crosses the border into the Cook Islands.'

Given its COVID-free status, Cook Islanders have been allowed to enter Aotearoa without a fortnight-long stay in quarantine since January.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken said President Joe Biden's administration is planning to close the infamous Guantanamo Bay detention facility in Cuba but declined to offer a timeline in an interview aired Sunday.

'We believe that it should be [closed], that's certainly a goal, but it's something that we'll bring some focus to in the months ahead,' Blinken told 60 Minutes host Norah O'Donnell.

Biden has previously said he intends to shutter the prison at the Guantanamo Bay Naval Base known as 'Gitmo', which currently houses 40 high profile criminals linked to the War on Terror.

Blinken suggested that closure could be a long way off, in part because it would require approval from Congress to move some prisoners to the US for trial or imprisonment.

Guantanamo was among several issues Blinken addressed in the 60 Minutes interview, including the Biden administration's withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan, which began formally on Saturday.

Blinken reaffirmed Biden's commitment to maintaining support for the Afghan government after the withdrawal while acknowledging the possibility of the situation there taking a bad turn.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Sunday said President Joe Biden is planning to close the infamous Guantanamo Bay detention facility in Cuba 'in the coming months'

Biden has previously said he intends to shutter the prison at the Guantanamo Bay Naval Base known as 'Gitmo', which currently houses 40 high profile criminals (file photo)

'Are you prepared for a worst case scenario in Afghanistan where the US-backed government fails, and the Taliban takes over?' O'Donnell asked.

Blinken said officials were watching the situation in 'a very clear-eyed way' and that they are 'prepared for every scenario'.

'We've been engaged in Afghanistan for 20 years and we sometimes forget why we went there in the first place, and that was to deal with the people who attacked us on 9/11. And we did,' he said.

'Just because our troops are coming home doesn't mean we're leaving. We're not,' he continued, saying that the American embassy would be staying and economic, development, and humanitarian support would continue from the US and our allies.'

Blinken's comments came after Gen Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, admitted that Afghan government forces face an uncertain future and, in a worst-case scenario, some 'bad possible outcomes' against Taliban insurgents as the withdrawal of American and coalition troops accelerates in the coming weeks.

Milley described the Afghan military and police as 'reasonably well equipped, reasonably well trained, reasonably well led'.

He cited Afghan troops' years of experience against a resilient insurgency, but he declined to say they are fully ready to stand up to the Taliban without direct international backing during a potential Taliban offensive.

A veteran of the war in Afghanistan, Milley spoke in an interview with Associated Press and CNN reporters flying with him from Hawaii to Washington just hours after the formal kickoff of the withdrawal.

Asked whether he believes the Afghan forces can hold up under increased strain, Milley was noncommittal.

'Your question: The Afghan army, do they stay together and remain a cohesive fighting force or do they fall apart? I think there's a range of scenarios here, a range of outcomes, a range of possibilities,' he said.

'On the one hand you get some really dramatic, bad possible outcomes. On the other hand, you get a military that stays together and a government that stays together.'

'Which one of these options obtains and becomes reality at the end of the day? We frankly don't know yet. We have to wait and see how things develop over the summer.'

Gen Mark Milley on Sunday admitted that Afghan government forces face an uncertain future and, in a worst-case scenario, some 'bad possible outcomes' against Taliban insurgents as the withdrawal of American and coalition troops accelerates in the coming weeks

Milley's comments came a day after the US formally passed control of Camp Antonik in the southern Helmand province to Afghan forces on Saturday (pictured)

Milley said there is 'at least still the possibility' of a negotiated political settlement between the government in Kabul and the Taliban. This, he said, would avoid the 'massive civil war' that some fear could happen.

Within about two months of the US-led invasion in October 2001, the country's Taliban rulers were removed from power and militarily defeated. But within several years, they had regrouped, rearmed and reasserted themselves, taking advantage of sanctuary in neighboring Pakistan.

In recent years the Taliban achieved a battlefield stalemate with U.S.-supported Afghan government forces.

Milley noted that the Afghan military has operated in recent years with less reliance on US and coalition advisers. Among the key exceptions are special operations commandos and the defense ministry.

'But for the most part, there's no advisers out there anyway,' he said in one of his few interviews since President Joe Biden announced April 14 that all US military personnel will withdraw this summer.

Milley said the commonly cited total of 2,500 troops rises to 3,300 if special operations forces are counted. 'We're taking it down to zero,' he said.

After the withdrawal is over, the United States will provide unspecified 'capabilities' to the Afghan military from other locations, Milley said.

He did not elaborate on this, but other officials have said those 'over-the-horizon' arrangements for supporting the Afghan military have yet to be solidified.

Milley said it is possible that the withdrawal will be finished before the September 11 target date announced by the White House. He said that date reflects the estimated maximum amount of time needed to move all US and coalition troops, as well as large amounts of equipment, out of the country.

'I don't want to put precise dates on it,' he said.

Blinken broached another major foreign relations issue facing the US in his 60 Minutes interview: An increasingly powerful China.

'What we've witnessed over the last several years is China acting more repressively at home and more aggressively abroad. That is a fact,' the top American diplomat said.

His comments came after Biden, in his first address to Congress on Wednesday, underscored that he was not seeking conflict with Beijing.

Biden said he told Chinese President Xi Jinping that in the competition to be the dominant power of the 21st century, 'we welcome the competition -- and that we are not looking for conflict'.

Blinken said China is 'the one country in the world that has the military, economic, diplomatic capacity to undermine or challenge the rules-based order that we care so much about and are determined to defend.

'But I want to be very clear about something... our purpose is not to contain China, to hold it back, to keep it down; it is to uphold this rules-based order that China is posing a challenge to.'

Tensions have risen sharply with China over the past few years as the United States also takes issue with Beijing's assertive military moves and human rights concerns, including what Washington has described as genocide against the mostly Muslim Uyghur minority.
A dying man with just days to live was granted his final wish by paramedics to make one last trip to the races.

Nigel Latham, 58, was wheeled in a stretcher to the edge of the track at Morphettville racecourse in Adelaide on Saturday.

The horse-racing lover was given a prime spot on the rails just 200 metres from the finishing post, where he watched the races with his wife Julie by his side.

Mr Latham was being transported from the Royal Adelaide Hospital to palliative care at his home so he could spend his final days in comfort with family.

Nigel Latham, 58, was wheeled in a stretcher across the Morphetville venue in Adelaide, South Australia, on Saturday

Paramedics Bec Sanders and her colleague Laura asked the dying man if there was any place he would like to visit one last time.

'I had been watching the racing in hospital, so wanted to go there,' Mr Latham told 7 News.

The 58-year-old, who had previously been a part-owner of some racehorses, thanked the paramedics for making his dying wish come true.

'Bec and Laura worked miracles and got me there,' Mr Latham said.

Melbourne Cup-winning jockey Craig Williams learned of the heartwarming gesture and gave Mr Latham a souvenir after willing his horse to victory.

'I said to my horse if she'd get over the line we'd make sure we give him the winning goggles and she did her job really well,' he said.

'We'd like to be grateful to people like Nigel who support the industry and have his last dying wish (of) coming here today for a great race day.'

The SA Ambulance Service tweeted that Mr Latham was so thrilled by the gift that he wore the goggles all the way home.

One spectator also wandered down to Mr Latham and shared a beer with the fellow horse-racing lover.

News of the gesture by paramedics has travelled overseas where English racing broadcaster Francesca Cumani tweeted her praise in one astonished word: 'Wow'.
A Melbourne woman has enjoyed an emotional reunion with her dog after being separated for more than a year due to the Covid pandemic.

Mikayla Neil, 22, was kept apart from her fox terrier Tess for 18 months after strict border closures stopped her from returning to Australia from New Zealand.

On April 25, Ms Neil filmed Tess rushing towards her before jumping into her lap in a fit of glee.

Even after more than a year apart, Tess recognised her long lost owner straight away.

Mikayla Neil, 22, was kept apart from her fox terrier Tess for 18 months after strict border closures stopped her from returning to Australia from New Zealand

The travel bubble with New Zealand, which followed months of negotiations between the largely coronavirus-free neighbours, was hailed as a major milestone in restarting a global travel industry that has been crippled by the Covid-19 pandemic.

New Zealand's tourism industry was its biggest export industry before Covid-19, with Australians accounting for about 40 percent of the international visitors.

New Zealand has paused travel from Western Australia, cancelling two flights due to arrive on Sunday morning after the state recorded three new Covid cases.

The nation is poised to open its borders further, allowing quarantine-free travel to the Cook Islands this month.

On April 25, Ms Neil filmed Tess rushing towards her before jumping into her lap in a fit of glee

The New Zealand-aligned Pacific nation has been in negotiations for a travel bubble arrangement with Jacinda Ardern's government for months.

Rumours over opening dates have been swirling since Ms Ardern and Cook Islands PM Mark Brown confirmed they were working towards a May opening.

Ms Ardern said she would give a date for the much-awaited opening later on Monday, following a cabinet meeting in Wellington.

'We will be having that discussion around our readiness on both sides and be looking to provide a date later this afternoon,' she said.

It's not yet clear whether the arrangements would also allow Australians or travellers from Australia to visit the Cook Islands, which has not recorded a single case of COVID-19 through the pandemic.
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Prince Harry had his name in lights as he was greeted with wild cheers and a standing ovation by a rapturous crowd during a speech at a star-studded concert in Los Angeles on Sunday, while his heavily pregnant wife Meghan Markle stayed at home.

Harry, 36, told the audience of vaccinated frontline workers 'every single one of you are awesome' before urging them to 'look beyond ourselves' as he joined A-list Hollywood celebrities at Vax Live - an initiative to encourage rich countries to share vaccines.

After an announcer read out an introduction, 'Please welcome Vax Live campaign chair Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex', the royal walked onto the stage to a rock star-style reception, with his name beamed in giant letters on a flashing screen behind him.

Harry, who appeared in public for the first time since the funeral of his grandfather, Prince Philip, delivered a five-minute address calling for vaccines to be shared with poorer countries, which was regularly punctuated by more rapturous cheers.

Speaking in a markedly different accent than his previous Queen's English, Harry said: 'We must look beyond ourselves with empathy and compassion for those we know, and those we don't. We need to lift up all of humanity and make sure that no person or community is left behind.'

The event - which was being recorded for broadcast on TV on May 8 - was the first speech Harry had given since he and Meghan made a series of damning claims about their family during an appearance on Oprah. The Duchess of Sussex is expected to be recording a message to appear in the final broadcast.

The royal was among many high profile stars - including Jennifer Lopez, Selena Gomez, Gayle King and Ben Affleck - to take the stage at Vax Live, which was hosted by campaign organisation Global Citizen at the So-Fi Stadium in Inglewood.

Prince Harry's name in lights at the event, which was attended by a series of Hollywood A-listers including Jennifer Lopez

Prince Harry received a standing ovation after he thanked front-line workers during the Vax Live charity concert in Los Angeles on Sunday

'You spent the last year battling courageously and selflessly to protect us all,' Harry told the 'millions of front-line heroes around the world'

Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, and Nomzamo Mbatha, star of Coming 2 America, speak onstage during the Global Citizen VAX LIVE event in California

Harry was all smiles as he addressed the crowd without his wife Meghan Markle on Sunday night

Colorful: Lopez later took to the SoFi Stadium stage again to perform her hit 2016 single Ain't Your Mama, with a slew of backup dancers and a much different and much more colorful ensemble

Audience members cheer during Global Citizen Vax LiveThe Concert To Reunite The World at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California

The event invited fully vaccinated key workers and included speeches urging the rich world to share vaccines with poorer countries

Cheering audience members at the event on Sunday, which was hosted by Selena Gomez and included performances from a host of A-listers

'We need to look beyond ourselves with empathy and compassion': Harry's speech in full 'Hi everybody. We are at a defining moment in the global fight against COVID-19. Tonight is a celebration of each of you here, the vaccinated frontline workers in the audience and the millions of frontline heroes around the world. You spent the last year battling courageously and selflessly to protect us all. You served and sacrificed, put yourselves in harm's way and with bravery knowing the costs. We owe you an incredible depth of gratitude, thank you. 'But we're also coming together because this pandemic cannot end unless we act collectively with an unprecedented commitment to our shared humanity. The vaccine must be distributed to everyone everywhere. We cannot rest or truly recover until there is fair distribution to every corner of the world. The mission in front of us is one we cannot afford to fail out and that's what tonight is about. The virus does not respect borders and access to the vaccine cannot be determined by geography. It must be accepted as a basic right for all and that is our starting point. 'None of us should be comfortable thinking that we could be fine when so many others are suffering. In reality, and especially with this pandemic, when any suffer, we all suffer. We must look beyond ourselves with empathy and compassion for those we know, and those we don't. We need to lift up all of humanity and make sure that no person or community is left behind. What we do in this moment will stand in history and tonight, we stand in solidarity with the millions of families across India who are battling a devastating second wave.' Advertisement

Harry and Meghan, 39, are Campaign Chairs of Vax Live, which 'aims to inspire vaccine confidence worldwide and help get the COVID-19 vaccines to everyone, everywhere' - according to Global Citizen.

In promoting the event organizers said the Duke and Duchess of Sussex would deliver 'an important global message for vaccine equity'.

Meghan, who is several months' pregnant with the couple's second child, trusted Harry to share that message on her behalf as she stayed home on Sunday.

In his address Harry said: 'Tonight is a celebration of each of you here, the vaccinated frontline workers in the audience and the millions of frontline heroes around the world.

'You spent the last year battling courageously and selflessly to protect us all. You served and sacrificed, put yourselves in harm's way and with bravery knowing the costs. We owe you an incredible depth of gratitude, thank you.'

He continued: 'We're coming together because this pandemic cannot end unless we act collectively with an unprecedented commitment to our shared humanity.

'The vaccine must be distributed to everyone everywhere. We cannot rest or truly recover until there is fair distribution to every corner of the world. The mission in front of us is one we cannot afford to fail out and that's what tonight is about.

'The virus does not respect borders and access to the vaccine cannot be determined by geography. It must be accepted as a basic right for all and that is our starting point.

'None of us should be comfortable thinking that we could be fine when so many others are suffering. In reality, and especially with this pandemic, when any suffer, we all suffer.

'We must look beyond ourselves with empathy and compassion for those we know, and those we don't. We need to lift up all of humanity and make sure that no person or community is left behind.

'What we do in this moment will stand in history and tonight, we stand in solidarity with the millions of families across India who are battling a devastating second wave.'

During the taping on Sunday night the crowd watched a message from President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden

Jennifer Lopez and Guadalupe Rodriguez teamed up for a performance at Sunday night's concert taping

The concert was hosted by Selena Gomez, who also took the stage to perform

The fundraising concert 'Vax Live: The Concert To Reunite The World', put on by international advocacy organization Global Citizen, raised millions for the vaccine rollout

Jennifer Lopez made several outfit changes during her set at the So-Fi Stadium on Sunday night

Chrissy Teigen speaks onstage at the event, which organisers said raised enough money to help purchase almost 10.3 million vaccine doses

Actress Olivia Munn was among the high-profile line-up at the concert, where she appeared to give a brief speech

Batman star Ben Affleck and Jimmy Kimmel stepped up together to address the crowd - with the late night host dressed as Robin

Sunday's event was a recording session for the concert, which will be broadcast to the world on May 8 in a bid to raise more money for the vaccine rollout

Everyone in the audience was fully vaccinated. Media and production staff needed to show a negative COVID test before entering the stadium. Pictured is J Balvin performing

'Every single one of you in here are awesome': Harry praises crowd before section on 'misinformation' 'Hi guys, this next bit is a bit dry but very serious. But before I start I just want to say every single one of you in here are awesome, thank you. 'I understand why people are confused or sometimes don't know what to think or believe about vaccines. We are experiencing a viral pandemic alongside a digital pandemic. 'In today's world we are so connected, and much like the virus there are no virus online. So when vaccine misinformation and disinformation spreads, magnified on social media and in parts of traditional media, it poses a collective threat to humanity. 'I believe that misinformation is a global humanitarian crisis and the crisis is getting worse.' The Duke of Sussex recently joined the left-leaning Aspen Institute as its new Commission on Information Disorder in Washington DC along with 14 others including Kathryn Murdoch, the wife of Rupert Murdoch's son James, who resigned from his father's media empire last year. Advertisement

Prior to a section on 'misinformation', the prince said: 'Hi guys, this next bit is a bit dry but very serious. But before I start I just want to say every single one of you in here are awesome, thank you.

'I understand why people are confused or sometimes don't know what to think or believe about vaccines. We are experiencing a viral pandemic alongside a digital pandemic.

'In today's world we are so connected, and much like the virus there are no virus online. So when vaccine misinformation and disinformation spreads, magnified on social media and in parts of traditional media, it poses a collective threat to humanity.

'I believe that misinformation is a global humanitarian crisis and the crisis is getting worse.'

Hosted by Selena Gomez, the concert - to be broadcast this Saturday - featured musical performances by Jennifer Lopez, Pearl Jam's Eddie Vedder, Foo Fighters, J Balvin and HER.

The event raised $53.8 (38.8 million) for Covax, which is working to provide vaccines for low and middle-income countries.

Organisers said it was enough to help purchase almost 10.3 million vaccine doses.

Messages about vaccine equity were heard from guests including Ben Affleck, David Letterman, Gayle King, Jimmy Kimmel and Sean Penn.

US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden also made a special appearance through Global Citizen's partnership with the White House's We Can Do This initiative, which encourages measures including mask-wearing.

President Biden said in a video address that the US was 'working with leaders around the world to share more vaccines and boost production to make sure every country has the vaccines they need'.

"We ain't out the woods yet. But let me tell you, I'm a firm believer and idea that music should be shared with people," Foo Fighters frontman Dave Grohl (pictured) said. "Let's work as hard as we can to make sure we can do this every night'

Ben Affleck, Chrissy Teigen, Jimmy Kimmel, Sean Penn (pictured) and David Letterman appeared as special guest speakers

Ned Fulmer, Keith Habersberger, Zach Kornfeld, and Eugene Lee Yang of The Try Guys perform onstage on Sunday

Selena Gomez (left) hosted the event, which also featured a performance by US singer-songwriter Eddie Vedder

Jimmy Kimmel and Ben Affleck joke together backstage at the Vax Live concert

Bases covered: The DJ Deleasa, the brother of Kevin Jonas' wife Danielle Jonas, also offered up some electronic music for the celebration

Rocker: he groups leader and frontman, Dave Grohl, showed off his tattoos in a black T-shirt while playing a gorgeous gold Gibson electric guitar

Casual cool: Entertainment Tonight co-host Kevin Frazier looked cool in a tan suede jacket with a black shirt and matching jeans

Cute: Jennifer and her mother Guadalupe hug backstage

Beaming: Nomzamo Mbatha was also among the on-stage speakers, and she looked gorgeous in a beige off-the-shoulder bodycon dress while sporting black braids

Stylish: She had her blond hair tied back in a ponytail and wore open hoop earrings. She added some complementary footwear with pointy black heels covered in white polka dots

Back in black: Selena looked lovely when she reemerged later in the concert in a figure-hugging black maxi dress with striking lines of white diamonds running down her front and sleeves

Prior to the concert, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex released a statement saying: 'Over the past year, our world has experienced pain, loss, and struggle - together. Now we need to recover and heal - together.

'We can't leave anybody behind. We will all benefit, we will all be safer, when everyone, everywhere has equal access to the vaccine.

'We must pursue equitable vaccine distribution, and, in that, restore faith in our common humanity. This mission couldn't be more critical or important.'

The concert marked the biggest event to take place yet at the So-Fi Stadium, which opened in the midst of the pandemic last September.

The stadium has space for 70,000 people but it was unclear how many were slated to attend the Vax Live concert.

The ticket disclaimer required all attendees to have received their final dose of COVID-19 vaccine no later than April 18 - allowing the required two-week time frame to be considered fully vaccinated.

Jennifer Lopez, 51, and Selena Gomez, 28, showed off contrasting glamorous looks as they hit the red carpet at the all-star Global Citizen: Vax Live benefit concert in Inglewood, California, on Sunday

Chrissy Teigen added some more color to the charity concert with a silky orange off-the-shoulder dress

Olivia Munn opted for primary colors with a pajama-like yellow satin suit covered in elegant yet sparse paisley patterns. Her matching slacks reached down to the ground, swallowing up her footwear, and she wore her dark hair parted down the middle and styled in waves across her shoulders

South African actress Nomzamo Mbatha rocked an eye-catching multipatterned blazer over a busy purple-and-green leopard-print top with white slacks. Canadian actress and dancer Keltie Knight looked sleek in a white suit with slits up her pants to showcase her beige heels

It comes as a royal expert claimed Prince Harry was now 'regretful and embarrassed' about his Oprah interview because he has a history of being 'hot headed and acting on his emotions'.

Duncan Larcombe, author of Prince Harry: The Inside Story, got to know the Duke of Sussex during his decade-long stint as a royal editor and described him as 'hot-headed'.

Speaking to Closer magazine, he said Harry has a tendency to act on impulse and recalled a time when the prince 'flew off the handle' at him following a misunderstanding at Peter Phillips' stag do in 2008.

Duncan told how he explained to William and Harry that he wouldn't get in their way while covering the event, and would liaise with them about the story he'd run.

During the weekend, he said the Duke of Cambridge invited him to join them for a drink in the beer garden, but Harry was 'livid' thinking he'd snuck in there on the sly.

'He's a hot-headed guy, he acts on his emotions,' Duncan told Closer. 'He saw red and we had a row - but after William explained, he calmed down, apologised and we had a beer.'

Duncan added that he believes a 'similar thing happened' when it came to the Oprah Winfrey interview last month, in which Harry and Meghan claimed Charles and William are 'trapped' in 'The Firm' and accused the royals of institutional racism, alleging one member of the family questioned what colour their son Archie's skin would be.

'Harry was clearly hurt and angry about Meghan's experience with the royals - and used the interview to get it out,' Duncan said. 'But after returning home, I've no doubt he's been feeling embarrassed, regretful and awkward. He's now facing the consequences. I believe he'll regret that interview - and maybe his decision to leave the Royal Family.'

The Duke of Sussex returned to the UK to attend Prince Philip's funeral on April 17, after stepping down as a senior royal in January 2020 and subsequently having his titles stripped by the Queen.

He flew back to California, where he now resides in a 11million Montecito mansion with Meghan, 39, who is pregnant with their second child, days later, missing the Queen's 95th birthday on April 21.

Harry stepped out on Sunday without wife Meghan Markle (pictured during their bombshell Oprah interview in March)

Charles, William and Harry were said to have talked after the interview but they were believed to have been 'unproductive'.

Duncan said he'd heard Harry felt 'numb' heading back to LA and had 'mixed emotions' about seeing his family again at Prince Philip's funeral, which reminded him of 'everything he's sacrificed' in recent years and made him feel 'nostalgic' for his old life.

Meanwhile, he alleged, Meghan is 'in her element' living her LA dream, and he fears Harry will struggle to live harmoniously as part of these two worlds.

'He's in for a very difficult ride. There could be tough times ahead,' Duncan said.

William and Harry are expected to meet again in the summer when they unveil a new statue to Princess Diana at Kensington Palace.

Insiders hope the July 1 event - done to commemorate what would have been their mother's 60th birthday - will help mend their relationship.

Though earlier this week royal expert Russell Myers questioned whether the visit will take place, commenting: 'Some quarters of the family did give him a frosty reception and perhaps that did shock him somewhat.'

He went on to say how the Duke of Sussex may use the birth of his daughter, who is expected to arrive in the summer, as a 'convenient excuse' not to 'face the family'.

According to a new poll, the Sussexes' approval ratings in Britain have fallen again to their lowest-ever levels following Prince Philip's funeral.

Jennifer Lopez, 51, puts on a show-stopping display in THREE OUTFITS and is joined on-stage by her mom Guadalupe while performing at Global Citizen VAX LIVE: The Concert To Reunite The World in LA

By Brian Gallagher for Dailymail.com

Jennifer Lopez was one of the numerous performers who took the stage at the lobal Citizen VAX LIVE: The Concert To Reunite The World concert, but she stood alone striking a bold fashion statement with three separate outfits.

The 51-year-old singer took to the stage at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles for the first public event to be held at the NFL stadium, performing three times and rocking three bold looks for each performance while also making things a family affair when she was joined by her beloved mother Guadalupe Rodriguez.

Her ex Ben Affleck also took the stage for a sketch with Jimmy Kimmel, just days after they were spotted hanging out together, in the wake of Lopez's split with ex-fiance Alex Rodriguez.

Bold: Jennifer Lopez was one of the numerous performers who took the stage at the lobal Citizen VAX LIVE: The Concert To Reunite The World concert, but she stood alone striking a bold fashion statement with three separate outfits

Lopez first took to the SoFi stage to sing the iconic Neil Diamond song Sweet Caroline, joined by her mother Guadalupe, with Lopez revealing her mother used to sing that song to her as a child.

'Lets sing it like a lullaby, and let's help her out,' Lopez said to the audience, before turning to her mother and stating, 'Sing it like you used to sing it to me,' in the midst of a unique 'jungle' set.

She performed the iconic song while rocking a fringed and feathered Zuhair Marad pantsuit while her mother stepped out with a black and white polka dot top and black pants.

Daughter and mother: Lopez first took to the SoFi stage to sing the iconic Neil Diamond song Sweet Caroline, joined by her mother Guadalupe Rodriguez, with Lopez revealing her mother used to sing that song to her as a child

Jungle: 'Lets sing it like a lullaby, and let's help her out,' Lopez said to the audience, before turning to her mother and stating, 'Sing it like you used to sing it to me,' in the midst of a unique 'jungle' set

Lopez later took to the SoFi Stadium stage again to perform her hit 2016 single Ain't Your Mama, with a slew of backup dancers and a much different and much more colorful ensemble.

She performed her second song wearing an off-shoulder bright yellow mini-dress with a number of jewel-encrusted lion head figures attached in numerous places on the dress.

The singer had her hair pulled back and completed her look with fishnet stockings and knee-high black leather heeled boots.

Her love: She kept her beloved mum close as they stormed the stage

Second song: She performed her second song wearing an off-shoulder bright yellow mini-dress with a number of jewel-encrusted lion head figures attached in numerous places on the dress

On stage: The singer had her hair pulled back and completed her look with fishnet stockings and knee-high black leather heeled boots

Her third and most colorful look of the night came as she performed and danced to Saweetie's hit song Pretty B***h Freestyle with an ensemble of masked dancers in brightly-colored outfits.

Lopez wore a rainbow onesie with flashes of yellow, purple, magenta and green with the same black collar with the lions head figures.

She completed her look with the same fishnet stockings and black leather boots from the Ain't Your Mama musical number.

Colorful: Her third and most colorful look of the night came as she performed and danced to Saweetie's hit song Pretty B***h Freestyle

JLo's look: Lopez wore a rainbow onesie with flashes of yellow, purple, magenta and green with the same black collar with the lions head figures

Dancers: She completed her look with the same fishnet stockings and black leather boots from the Ain't Your Mama musical number

This isn't the first time JLo has admired Saweetie's song Pretty B***h Freestyle, taking to Twitter back in March to use the song for a 'Sunday brunch playlist.'

She used the song and matched up various video clips from her performances and movies, while even sharing headlines about her breakup with Alex Rodriguez.

While Rodriguez wasn't at the concert, another one of her exes was, Ben Affleck, who took to the stage with Jimmy Kimmel during the special.

Admire: This isn't the first time JLo has admired Saweetie's song Pretty B***h Freestyle, taking to Twitter back in March to use the song for a 'Sunday brunch playlist'

Breakup: She used the song and matched up various video clips from her performances and movies, while even sharing headlines about her breakup with Alex Rodriguez

Exes: While Rodriguez wasn't at the concert, another one of her exes was, Ben Affleck, who took to the stage with Jimmy Kimmel during the special

After Lopez and Rodriguez split, Affleck was seen hanging out with Lopez, it sparked rumors that they might be getting back together, after dating between 2002 and 2004.

However, there is no romance on the horizon, with sources telling ET that the two, 'are friends and have a cordial, good relationship.'

'They obviously have a romantic history, but at this point they only have a friendship. They both admire each other professionally, respect one another and feel comfortable with each other,' the source added.

Split: After Lopez and Rodriguez split, Affleck was seen hanging out with Lopez, it sparked rumors that they might be getting back together, after dating between 2002 and 2004

Friends: However, there is no romance on the horizon, with sources telling ET that the two, 'are friends and have a cordial, good relationship'

History: 'They obviously have a romantic history, but at this point they only have a friendship. They both admire each other professionally, respect one another and feel comfortable with each other,' the source added

JLo performs: Jennifer Lopez performs at the Global Citizen VAX Live concert

Dancers: JLo performs alongside a cadre of masked dancers
Rest in peace: Deklan Babington MacDonald, six, died in hospital after a bizarre apparent mishap with a penguin-on-a-leash toy, his family confirmed

A six-year-old boy has died days after a bizarre playtime mishap with a penguin-on-a-leash toy from Sea World, family sources confirmed.

Year one student Deklan Babington-MacDonald, from Nerang on Queensland's Gold Coast, passed away in hospital on Friday.

Daily Mail Australia understands Deklan was taken off life support about 3pm after his mother Lauren, family and close friends were given time to say goodbye.

'Deklan passed away on the 30th of April, at Queensland Childrens Hospital, surrounded by his closest family, extended family and some close friends of the family,' a statement said.

Deklan's loved ones said he suffered a 'severe' injury while playing with the toy on Sunday, April 25, which he had only picked up at the Surfers Paradise theme park days before the incident.

The apparently deadly device was 'a penguin toy that you "walk" and the leash was made stiff by a pole but the pole came out,' his cousin Lea Williams said.

'It turned into basically a long rope with a loop on the end. In a very short amount of time Deklan became entangled.'

Deklan got 'entangled' in the toy's leash, family claim, and severely injured himself. He was unable to be revived and family members said goodbye to him on Friday, April 30

The 'penguin-on-a-leash' toy allegedly at the centre of the incident was bought by the family on a trip to SeaWorld only days ago

Deklan's mother Lauren Babington discovered Deklan 'entangled' in the toy and called for help, but he was unable to be saved

Pictured: An image of the toy Deklan was playing with when he suffered the injury

Deklan's mother Lauren Babington discovered the little boy injured at home.

She called for help and his grandparents then rushed from their nearby home to perform CPR.

Deklan was transferred to Gold Coast University Hospital and later airlifted to the intensive care unit at Queensland Children's Hospital.

Doctors said his chances of survival were slim at the time and later that week his loved ones agreed to turn off his life support.

On Monday, Declan was remembered as a 'gorgeous boy' whose presence would light up the room he was in, and his mother's best friend.

His family have asked for privacy and warned trolls 'it is not appropriate to harass or judge the family for not disclosing more information about the accident'.

A statement said Deklan's death was subject to an 'ongoing police and coronial situation'.

Gold Coast Police have said there were 'no suspicious circumstances' found in their initial investigation of the accident.

Officers have seized the toy and the boy's family are calling for a coronial inquest into just how it happened.

SeaWorld has withdrawn the toy from sale and the consumer watchdog, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, is working with state authorities to examine safety issues.

Village Roadshow Theme Parks, which operates SeaWorld, released a statement in response to questions from Daily Mail Australia last week, saying staff were 'distressed' to learn about the tragic accident potentially involving a toy from Sea World.

'We need to understand the circumstances around what has occurred and will be fully cooperating with any investigation,' a spokesperson said.

'As our number one priority is always health and safety, we have removed the toy in question from sale at this time. We will also be reaching out to Deklans family to offer support.'

Deklan, who was just about to start his second term of grade one, has been described as a 'gorgeous boy' who could light up a room

A post on the 'Supporting Deklan' Facebook page last Wednesday advised his life support would be withdrawn in 48 hours as he was 'beyond recovery'.

'As you can understand this is a devastating time for the family so please respect their privacy and understand they won't be able to talk on the phone.

'They are reading the messages of support and appreciate all the love and kindness shown by the community.'

A fundraiser initially set-up to raise funds to aid Deklan's recovery will now be dedicated towards his funeral. It had raised more than $14,000 as of time of publication.

'The money donated will go towards Deklan's memorial and allow Lauren to make an important keepsake with Deklan's ashes when the time is right,' the Facebook post said.

Ms Williams has described Deklan as the much-loved 'baby of the family' and said they want police to launch an investigation.

Deklan's aunty Caity Macdonald first broke the sad news to her friends and family last Tuesday afternoon.

'It is with a heavy heart that we share this news, but on Sunday my nephew Deklan was involved in a horrific accident that has left my sister (his mum) and my family absolutely devastated', she wrote on Facebook. 'He is in ICU in a critical condition.'

Lea Williams described her cousin as a 'gorgeous boy' who could light up a room.

'He's definitely mischievous but he's so so sweet. He's so loved, just doted on', she told the Gold Coast Bulletin.

Deklan's family said appreciated all the love and kindness shown by the community following news of his accident

Deklan was playing with a toy in his bedroom on Sunday, when he suffered a life-threatening injury

He was just about to start his second term of grade one at William Duncan State School and was said to have loved riding his scooter and going to the beach.

'Deklan isn't just a grandson or nephew you would see every now and then', his aunty Ms Macdonald told the Gold Coast Bulletin.

'He is embedded in our lives, with sleepovers at Nanna's every weekend and hangouts with the aunties all the time.'

She said Ms Babington has had to overcome the challenges of being a single mother ever since Deklan was born.

'What has happened is a horrible tragedy that no one could ever see coming. We are all broken and praying for our little man,' Ms Macdonald said.

Gold Coast police told Daily Mail Australia there were no suspicious circumstances in their initial investigation of the accident, having been called to Deklan's home last Sunday.

The principal of Deklan's school, William Duncan State School, would not comment when approached by Daily Mail Australia but all students have been offered access to counselling.

'As a school community, we will rally together and support each other, while respecting the familys privacy during this most challenging of times,' wrote Principal Regan Gant in a letter to parents.
Health authorities in Perth have identified 76 fresh venues, including a McDonald's and a KFC, that may have been exposed to coronavirus after two infected delivery drivers handed food to over 100 fast-food customers.

The new locations were listed on Monday as Western Australia recorded no new local Covid cases and as authorities continued to track down residents who came into contact with a hotel quarantine security guard and two of his housemates.

The trio tested positive on Saturday, prompting the government to reinstate mandatory mask-wearing both indoors and outdoors, close nightclubs and prevent fans from attending Sunday's AFL western derby at Optus Stadium.

The two infected housemates each worked as delivery drivers and gave food to more than 100 people.

'The list relates to venues where food delivery drivers, of which two of the positive cases are, picked up and dropped off food,' Premier Mark McGowan said on Monday.

The 100 people are considered casual contacts and are being contacted and advised to get tested.

But health advice suggested the risk of transmission was very low given the drivers were required to wear face masks and had minimal contact with customers.

West Australian Premier Mark McGowan looks on as Health Minister Roger Cook addresses the media on Monday

The delivery drivers picked up food at nine different McDonald's restaurants across Perth including the store in Landsdale (pictured)

The delivery drivers picked up food at nine different McDonald's restaurants across Perth, as well as five KFC stores.

Popular fast food franchises including Hungry Jack's, Nando's, Subway and Grill'd have also been added to the list of public exposure sites.

'The Department of Health is contacting all confirmed cases to identify and inform close contacts,' Healthy WA said on their website.



'The following sites were briefly visited by persons who have been diagnosed with Covid19, the risk is deemed to be very low.

'If you develop Covid-19 symptoms within 14 days of being at one of the locations below at the dates and times indicated you are advised to get a COVID test and isolate until you get the results.

'If you do not experience any symptoms, there is no action other than to monitor for symptoms.'

PUBLIC EXPOSURE SITES Health authorities added the food businesses to their list of exposure sites on Monday May 3. BALCATTA Subway April 29, 11.50am  12.10pm BALGA Hungry Jack's April 29, 12.20pm  12.30pm Hungry Jack's April 29, 11.20am  11.30am BANKSIA GROVE Hungry Jack's April 30, 9.45am  10.10am The Coffee Club April 30, 10.05am  10.25am BELDON Fried Chicken by Red Rooster April 29, 8.50pm  9.20pm Fried Chicken by Red Rooster April 29, 9.15pm  9.45pm Hungry Jack's April 30, 5.00pm  5.30pm Hungry Jacks April 30, 7.30pm  7.40pm KFC April 29, 8.55pm  9.05pm KFC April 29, 9.20pm  9.30pm KFC April 30, 6.30pm  6.45pm KFC April 30, 9.45pm  10.00pm McDonald's April 29, 4.20pm  4.35pm McDonald's April 29, 9.45pm  10.15pm Nando's Belridge Shopping Centre April 30, 6.15pm  6.25pm Pastacup April 29, 8.15pm  8.45pm BELRIDGE Nando's April 29, 8.15pm  8.45pm DUNCRAIG McDonald's April 29, 12.50pm  1.00pm Nando's April 30, 11.55am  12.25pm IGA Grocery April 30, 4.20pm  4.50pm GLENGARRY Hungry Jack's April 29, 2.05pm  2.15pm Supreme Leader Chicken April 30, 11.55am  12.10pm Supreme Leader Chicken April 30, 12.40pm  12.50pm GREENWOOD Basil and Mint Greenwood Vietnamese Restaurant April 30, 11.35am  12.05pm HILLARYS Nando's April 29, 11.45am  12.15pm Grill'd April 29, 2.20pm  2.35pm San Churro  Hillarys Boat Harbour April 29, 2.50pm  3.10pm Sir Benedict  Whitford City April 30, 11.00am  11.20am HOCKING Wyatt Kebabs and Turkish Bakery April 29, 6.25pm  6.55pm Wyatt Kebabs and Turkish Bakery April 30, 11.05am  11.35am

JOONDALUP Hungry Jack's April 29, 10.00pm  10.30pm McDonald's April 30, 9.20am  9.30am Coco Cubano April 30, 9.35am  9.55am KALLAROO Kallaroo seafood April 30, 5.20pm  5.50pm KARRINYUP KFC April 29, 1.05pm  1.20pm Hungry Jack's April 29, 1.55pm  2.10pm LANDSDALE Landsdale Fish and Chips April 29, 6.00pm  6.10pm McDonald's April 29, 6.15pm  6.30pm Chicken Treat April 30, 2.50pm  3.20pm McDonald's April 30, 8.25pm  8.40pm MADELEY Supreme Leader Chicken April 30, 11.05am  11.35am MULLALOO IGA Grocery April 30, 5.05pm  5.35pm Mullaloo Chinese Restaurant (3 consecutive pickups) April 30, 5.45pm  7.10pm PADBURY Jesters April 29, 11.45am  12.00pm Chicken Treat April 29, 4.40pm  5.10pm Couchfood Powered by BP April 29, 4.45pm  5.15pm Jesters April 30, 3.30pm  4.00pm Couchfood Powered by BP April 30, 3.50pm  4.20pm SCARBOROUGH Grind Zero April 29, 1.30pm  1.50pm TAPPING McDonald's April 30, 10.35am  10.50am WANGARA Daily Grind April 29, 9.05am  9.35am Daily Grind April 29, 10.20am  10.50am Hungry Jack's April 29, 5.45pm  6.00pm WANNEROO McDonald's April 29, 9.45am  10.00am McDonald's April 29, 7.25pm  7.40pm Subway April 29, 6.40pm  7.10pm Wanneroo Pizza April 30, 9.00pm  9.15pm Wanneroo Pizza April 30, 9.10pm  9.40pm WARWICK Gong Cha April 30, 12.20pm  12.50pm WHITFORD Krispy Kreme Whitford City April 29, 10.55am  11.25am Boba Bear  Whitford City April 29, 12.40pm  1.10pm Hungry Jack's April 29, 12.35pm  12.50pm Grill'd  Whitford City April 29, 12.30pm  1.00pm Guzman y Gomez April 29, 2.35pm  .50pm Hungry Jack's April 29, 3.00pm  3.30pm Krispy Kreme April 29, 3.55pm  4.10pm Subway April 30, 1.40pm  2.10pm Hungry Jack's April 30, 2.15pm  2.30pm Bangkok Brothers Bar and Bites April 30, 4.05pm  4.35pm San Remo Pizza April 30, 9.35pm  10.00pm WOODVALE Just Sushi April 29, 1.00pm  1.30pm Pizza Hut April 29, 3.10pm  3.40pm Subway April 29, 3.25pm  3.55pm Subway April 30, 11.30am  11.45am Just Sushi April 30, 12.05pm  12.25pm Advertisement

Fans were prevented from attending Sunday's AFL western derby at Optus Stadium

Mr McGowan on Monday said WA Health had so far identified 58 close contacts and 26 had tested negative.

Seventeen of the close contacts went to cooking classes on April 27 and 28 at the Perth College of Business and Technology which was also attended by one of the housemates.

All close contacts are required to quarantine for 14 days.

Mr McGowan and Health Minister Roger Cook on Monday each received their first doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine.

They are part of the over-50s cohort who are now eligible to receive their jabs at one of several mass vaccination clinics across Perth.

Over-50s can get vaccinated by their GPs from May 17.

People in face masks are seen walking along the Swan River in Perth on Sunday

The Hungry Jack's chain in Beldon has been identified as a potential Covid-hit venue in Perth

The guard in his 20s worked at the Pan Pacific Hotel between April 24 and 26 and tested positive on Saturday.

He and his seven housemates have been moved to hotel quarantine.

On his days off work from April 27 to 30, he moved through the community going shopping, seeing friends and visiting Mirrabooka Mosque.

Restrictions had been in place in Perth and Peel following a snap three-day lockdown.

'Had what happened in the last couple of days occurred three weeks ago, we would have gone into lockdown immediately,' Mr McGowan said.

Authorities believe the guard likely contracted the virus from a returned traveller from the United States who was in quarantine at the Pan Pacific.

Genomic testing has indicated the pair have the same US variant of the virus.

Mr McGowan said he had been advised the outbreak was not related to ventilation issues which had been detected in several other quarantine hotels.
Los Angeles County reported no deaths from COVID-19 Sunday, a stunning turnaround for California's most populous district which has suffered 23,915 fatalities since the pandemic began.

It is the first time in 410 days that the county has not reported at least one COVID fatality.

But health officials warned that the landmark figure may be due to an undercount because of delays in reporting COVID figures on weekends, the The LA Times reports.

Health officials reported 313 new cases and 410 hospitalizations Sunday in the county, which, which comprises a large swathe of Los Angeles city's metropolitan area and has a population of more than 10 million people.

California now has the lowest COVID rate of any state in the country after suffering alternating waves of death and lockdown over the past 12 months.

Less than four months ago, the County experienced its deadliest day when a record 290 died on January 8, according to official figures.

More than half of the population in LA County, have had at least one vaccination and just under a third are fully vaccinated.

LA County recorded its first COVID death on March 19 last year, when four people died.

From a peak of nearly 300 deaths per day in early January, LA County in California reported no COVID deaths on Sunday May 2

Disneyland has reopened to a 25% capacity - as guests return to the happiest place on earth for the first time in more than a year

Joggers on Venice Beach enjoy the warm California sunshine

A person skateboards along the Venice Beach boardwalk on April 28, 2021 in Venice, California. LA County reported no deaths from COVID for the first time since last March

The death rate quickly grew to more than 40 and hovered between 30 and 40 until late August.

The state was plunged into one of the nation's strictest lockdowns, with residents only permitted to leave their homes for groceries and exercise.

California became the first state to issue a statewide stay-at-home order last spring and has endured the nation's longest lockdown.

The state operated a complicated color-coded tier system that would determine restrictions county-by-county.

The restrictions were eased as the death rate reduced to around 15 per seven day rolling average in October.

But the virus stubbornly crept back up during a second wave in November.

Daily deaths reached more than 100 a day for the first time on December 11 and peaked at 290 deaths on January 9.

Some 6,411 people died in January alone.

The latest COVID-19 figures show case numbers are on a steady downward trend

The number of deaths remain stubbornly high in some parts of the country

On April 30, people enter Disneyland Park as it reopens for the first time since the COVID 19 pandemic forced the park to shut down last year. California saw some of the highest infection rates in the nation over the winter but now enjoys some of the lowest

Customers dine at Hank's outdoor dining in front of the Bay Theatre by Cineapolis Luxury Cinemas in the Pacific Palisades

But as the vaccine rollout gathered pace, LA County flattened the curve.

Now, California boasts the countrys lowest rate of confirmed coronavirus infections and more than half of the population eligible for vaccination has received at least one dose.

Children have been returning to in-person classes, shops and restaurants are expanding business, and Gov. Gavin Newsom set June 15 as a target date to further reopen the economy, albeit with some health-related restrictions.

Disneyland in Los Angeles has reopened with a 25% capacity.

Visitors must wear masks and can remove them to eat only in designated areas. Hugs and handshakes with characters are off limits, and parades and fireworks shows have been shelved to limit crowding.

And the city's famous beaches, such as Venice and Malibu, have been teeming with life in recent weeks.

While California continues to 'strongly discourage' anyone from visiting the state as tourists, the travel industry is banking on pent-up demand from its own nearly 40 million residents for a comeback.

An advertising campaign encourages Californians to travel within the state, mirroring a pitch made after 9/11.

Governor Gavin Newsom said last week the state was reviewing its mask mandate in light of new guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control that allow vaccinated people to go maskless outside, unless they're in a crowded area.

Across the US, the 14-day average for COVID deaths was 693 yesterday, according to the New York Times tracking data.

Some districts in Michigan, Utah, Oregon, Minnesota, Texas, Colorado and Washington state are reporting more than 50 cases per 100,000 people.
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The Rev. Al Sharpton on Monday issued a powerful call for transparency and the release of body camera footage at the funeral for Andrew Brown Jr after he was shot and killed by deputies in North Carolina.

Relatives of other black men killed by law enforcement officers, including siblings of George Floyd, Eric Garner's mother and Daunte Wright's sister also spoke at the service.

A judge ruled last week that the video would not be released for another month pending a state investigation into the April 21 shooting of Brown, 42, by deputies attempting to serve drug-related search and arrest warrants.

An independent autopsy commissioned by his family said Brown was shot five times, including once in the back of the head. The shooting sparked days of protests in Elizabeth City.

'I know a con game when I see it. Release the whole tape and let the folks see what happened to Andrew Brown,' civil rights leader Sharpton told mourners in a eulogy at the invitation-only church service.

'You dont need time to get a tape out. Put it out. Let the world see what there is to see. If youve got nothing to hide, then what are you hiding?' he said, to loud applause.

Bridgett Floyd described the 'sleepless nights, long days, heartache and pain' that she knows Brown's family is facing, having experienced the killing of her brother by a police officer in Minnesota who was later convicted of murder.

After Brown's funeral, she told reporters it was important for her to come to North Carolina to show support for his family. 'I'm showing them strength right now. If I can do it, they can do it,' she said.

Other speakers included Brown's sons as well as civil rights attorney Ben Crump, who is representing Browns family.

Khalil Ferebee, the son of Andrew Brown Jr., and other family members walk behind a horse-drawn carriage carrying his father's casket to the funeral in Elizabeth City, North Carolina on Monday

Rev. Al Sharpton speaks during the funeral for Andrew Brown Jr., Monday. Sharpton issued a powerful call for transparency and the release of body camera footage, telling mourners: 'I know a con game when I see it'

Andrew Brown Jr.'s son Khalil Ferebee, speaks during the funeral for his father. A judge ruled last week that the video would not be released for another month pending a state investigation into the April 21 shooting of Brown, 42, by deputies attempting to serve drug-related search and arrest warrants

Solidarity: Ben Crump (left in a black suit and purple tie), Monica Wright (sister of Daunte Wright), Bridgette Floyd (sister of George Floyd), Tenicka Shannon (mother of Frederick Cox), Gwen Carr (mother of Eric Garner) and Terrence Floyd (brother of George Floyd) - whose family members have all been killed by police - attended Andrew Brown Jr.'s funeral in Elizabeth City, North Carolina

Family members react during the funeral for Andrew Brown Jr., Monday at Fountain of Life Church in Elizabeth City, N.C. Brown was fatally shot by Pasquotank County Sheriff deputies trying to serve a search warrant

Hundreds of supporters of Andrew Brown Jr.'s family had filed past his open casket on Sunday a day before his funeral, and went on to hold a peaceful protest calling for police to release the bodycam footage of his death

Mourners had gathered on Sunday, the day before his funeral, as his body was displayed at two locations in the city

Judge Jeffrey Foster denied a media petition to release the footage publicly for at least 30 days, saying it might impede the ongoing investigation. Since Brown's death on April 21, the city of Elizabeth City was rocked by nearly two weeks of consecutive protests calling for greater transparency from law enforcement

Khalil Ferebee, the son of Andrew Brown Jr., hugs a family member before helping to load his father's casket into a horse-drawn carriage for a funeral procession in Elizabeth City

Mourners attend the funeral for Andrew Brown Jr., Monday, May 3, 2021 at Fountain of Life Church in Elizabeth City

Two mourners wear shirts and masks depicting Andrew Brown Jr. before the start of his funeral procession in Elizabeth City

Khalil Ferebee, left, and Jha'rod Ferebee release doves after the funeral of their father Andrew Brown Jr

Lawyers for the Brown family said they have 'great faith' in the FBI investigation. They also called separate footage taken by a neighbor of the moment a large group of cops surrounded Brown Jr.'s car 'an inflamed modern-day lynch mob'

Khalil Ferebee, Brown's son, spoke of his love of his father, adding 'it's a terrible way we had to be together like this...'.

'Everybody keep their hands up and keep God in your prayers because he gonna work all this out for us,' Ferebee said.

'It's a terrible way we had to be together like this but seeing everybody, I'm glad we together like this right now. He would have loved this. I just wish he was here with us. As much as I'm gonna wish and wish and wish all day, it's not gonna happen.'

Calling Brown's death an 'unjustifiable, reckless shooting,' Crump told mourners the legal team would continue fighting for justice and transparency.

'We are here to make this plea for justice because Andrew was killed unjustifiably, as many black men in America have been killed: shot in the back,' Crump said.

He added: 'Shot, going away from the police. And because Andrew cannot make the plea for justice, it is up to us to make the plea for justice.'

A long line of mourners filed into the church, many wearing white T-shirts with Browns image and the words, 'Say his name.'

In the lobby, a wreath of red and white flowers with a ribbon bearing the message, 'Rest in Peace Drew,' referring to Browns nickname, stood next to a tapestry with images of him.

Mourners leave after the Andrew Brown Jr. funeral at the Fountain of Life church on Monday

Rev. Al Sharpton stands with Khalil Ferebee and Jha'rod Ferebee as doves are released after the funeral of their father Andrew Brown Jr.

Rev. Al Sharpton (C) leads a closing prayer as he stands with Khalil Ferebee (L) and Jha'rod Ferebee (R) during the funeral of their father Andrew Brown Jr

Khalil Ferebee and Jha'rod Ferebee leave at the end of the funeral for their father. Brown was shot to death by Pasquotank County Sheriff's deputies on April 21

Attorney Ben Crump, center, speaks during the funeral for Andrew Brown Jr., Monday. Calling Brown's death an 'unjustifiable, reckless shooting,' Crump told mourners the legal team would continue fighting for justice and transparency

Mourners attend the funeral for Andrew Brown Jr., Monday. An independent autopsy commissioned by his family said Brown was shot five times, including once in the back of the head

The Rev. Al Sharpton delivered the eulogy; other speakers included Brown's relatives as well as civil rights attorney Ben Crump, whos representing Browns family, and the Rev. William Barber II, leader of the Poor People's campaign

The family members of Andrew Brown Jr., Al Sharpton and others take part of the funeral of the 42-year-old slain Andrew Brown Terrell Green, a cousin of Brown's, came to pay his respects on Sunday morning. Green told The News & Observer he was with Brown on the night that he died. 'I just feel like they're trying to hide something,' Green said. 'We just want the truth'

Bridgett Floyd, the sister of George Floyd, speaks during a funeral for Andrew Brown Jr., Monday

As the service started, an ensemble sang songs of praise including, 'You're the Lifter,' while some mourners stood and clapped.

Family members have said that Brown was a proud father of seven, who was known for entertaining relatives with his stories and jokes.

The FBI has launched a civil rights probe of the shooting, while state agents are conducting a separate investigation. Three deputies who were involved remain on leave.

North Carolina's Democratic governor, Roy Cooper, has called for swift release of the footage, which must be approved by a judge under state law.

The search and arrest warrants accused Brown of possessing small amounts of cocaine and methamphetamine that he intended to sell. Brown had a criminal history dating back to the 1990s, including past drug convictions.

A prosecutor has said that Brown's car ran into the deputies before they opened fire, while a family attorney who watched a 20-second clip of body camera footage disagreed, saying that Brown posed no threat. The sheriff has said his deputies weren't injured.

During his eulogy, Sharpton slammed the notion that Browns past record or actions on the day of the shooting justified violence against him.

'Whatever record Andrew had, Andrew didnt hurt nobody,' he said, adding: 'How do you try and justify shooting a man that was not a threat to you, because he was running away from you?'

Brown's family asked Sharpton to deliver the eulogy because they felt the civil rights leader would properly honor his legacy

Brown's death occurred a day after former Minneapolis cop Derek Chauvin was convicted of murdering George Floyd

Relatives of other Black men killed by law enforcement officers, including siblings of George Floyd, Eric Garner's mother and Daunte Wright's sister also spoke at the service

Bridgett Floyd described the 'sleepless nights, long days, heartache and pain' that she knows Brown's family is facing, having experienced the killing of her brother by a police officer in Minnesota who was later convicted of murder

Sharpton recently delivered the eulogy for Daunte Wright, who was shot and killed by a police officer in Minnesota.

The casket of Andrew Brown Jr. is loaded by pallbearers into a horse-drawn carriage at the start of his funeral procession in Elizabeth City

The shooting sparked days of protests in the city in rural northeastern North Carolina. The funeral took place Monday

Rev. William Barber II speaks during the funeral for Andrew Brown Jr., Monday. Family members have said that Brown was a proud father of seven, who was known for entertaining relatives with his stories and jokes

Mourners attend the funeral for Brown Jr., Monday. The FBI has launched a civil rights probe of the shooting, while state agents are conducting a separate investigation. Three deputies who were involved remain on leave

Among the mourners at the service was 40-year-old Davy Armstrong, who said he went to high school with Brown and lived near him while the two were growing up. He said Brown seemed to be doing well when he ran into him recently before the shooting.

'He was very humble, very generous. He said he was doing good,' said Armstrong, who works in construction. 'We hear about this on TV all the time. But when its someone so well known and so respected, its pretty painful.'

After the funeral, 67-year-old Michael Harrell, who lives around the corner from Browns house, recalled that he would see Brown playing with his kids in the yard.

'Everything is in Gods hands,' Harrell said of the message he took away from the funeral. 'And through Gods hands, truth and justice will be served. People will be held accountable.'

The casket of Andrew Brown Jr., arrives for his funeral, Monday. The states Democratic governor, Roy Cooper, has called for swift release of the footage, which must be approved by a judge under state law

During his eulogy, Sharpton slammed the notion that Browns past record or actions on the day of the shooting justified violence against him. 'Whatever record Andrew had, Andrew didnt hurt nobody,' he said, adding: 'How do you try and justify shooting a man that was not a threat to you, because he was running away from you?'

Mourners attend the funeral for Andrew Brown Jr., Monday. Among the mourners at the service was 40-year-old Davy Armstrong, who said he went to high school with Brown and lived near him while the two were growing up. He said Brown seemed to be doing well when he ran into him recently before the shooting. 'He was very humble, very generous'

Rev. William Barber II, left and Rev. Al Sharpton arrive for the funeral for Andrew Brown Jr.

People arrive for the funeral for Andrew Brown Jr., Monday. After the funeral, Michael Harrell, who lives around the corner from Browns house, recalled that he would see Brown playing with his kids in the yard. 'Everything is in Gods hands,' Harrell said of the message he took away from the funeral. 'And through Gods hands, truth and justice will be served'

A mourner attends the funeral for Andrew Brown Jr., Monday. A long line of mourners filed into the church, many wearing white T-shirts with Browns image and the words, 'Say his name'

Andrew Brown Jr.'s son Jha'rod Ferebee, speaks during the funeral for his father. In the lobby, a wreath of red and white flowers with a ribbon bearing the message, 'Rest in Peace Drew,' referring to Browns nickname, stood next to a tapestry with images of him
The James City County Sheriffs Office notified the U.S. Coast Guard about a 29-foot boat that had been in the area of Grays Creek, near Williamsburg. Officials said in a news release the boats engine was still running and had signs of recent occupancy.
General Michael Flynn, former President Trump's National Security Advisor, appeared to forget the words to the Pledge of Allegiance during a pro-Trump rally in South Carolina on Sunday.

A clip of the forgetful Flynn showed how the retired U.S. Army Lieutenant General began strongly enough as he instructed people remove their hats, before reciting the 31-word oath of allegiance.

Flynn built up the moment as he encouraged everyone present to take part: 'I want you to hear, not just listen - Every. Single. Word,' he said.

Lt. Gen. Michael Flynn, former President Donald Trump's former national security adviser seemed to forget the words to the Pledge of Allegiance

'I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America...' Flynn began, but then he suddenly fell silent.

The crowd helped him out as they continued to recite the rest of the pledge in unison.

Flynn joined back in with the Bikers for Trump group as they reached the final cadence.

'...under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all,' Flynn chimed in.

After encouraging the crowd to the recite the oath, Flynn suddenly fell silent

Flynn is still making speeches and appearing at various GOP rally's including the Save America Patriot Rally in Florida last weekend

Those gathered at the event which was held at the Honky Tonk saloon didn't appear to notice Flynn's flub and applauded afterwards but Twitter was not so forgiving.

'Mike Flynn totally omitted 'And to the Republic for which it stands.' Freudian slip? Perhaps. Because he doesn't have allegiance to OUR Republic. Only to Trumpism,' wrote one Twitter user.

'He didn't forget. He skipped the 'to the Republic' part because he wants to replace our Constitution with an authoritarian dictatorship,' added another user.

'He could not get out the words 'to the Republic.' That's pretty telling. His allegiance is to the (Russian) Federation,' wrote another on social media.

Those gathered at the event which was held at the Honky Tonk saloon didn't appear to notice Flynn's flub and applauded afterwards but Twitter was not so forgiving

Another Twitter user expressed surprise having been forced to recite the pledge at school from Kindergarten until 12th Grade.

President Trump pardoned Flynn last Thanksgiving. Flynn's conviction for lying to the FBI during the Russia investigation was wiped following the presidential pardon.

In 2017, Trump fired Flynn after just weeks on the job after it was revealed he did not disclose his contacts with Russia's former ambassador to the US to Vice President Mike Pence.
A Labor deputy premier has blamed his stutter after dropping the c-word when talking about Prime Minister Scott Morrison and his $5,000-per-head event.

Queensland Labor MP Steven Miles was speaking at a Labor Day event in Brisbane on Monday afternoon, comparing Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese, who was in attendance at the free event, to Morrison's exorbitant dinner.

'Scott Morrison's in town, he's holding $5000-a-seat fundraisers, think about that,' Mr Miles said at the event.

'Albo's here with us at Labour Day while Scott Morrison's charging $5000 a head to have dinner with him.

'What a cun... contrast.'

Queensland Labor MP Steven Miles was speaking at a Labor Day event in Brisbane on Monday afternoon comparing PM Scott Morrison with Labor Leader Anthony Albanese

Miles, who grinned and laughed as the crowd roared with laughter and cheered at the slip of the tongue, then introduced Albanese who he said would be more careful with his words.

At a press conference following the event, Miles said the gaffe was the result of his stutter rather than a shot at the PM.

'I understand I might have stuttered while speaking earlier and some in the crowd might have misheard,' he said.

Miles, who grinned and laughed as the crowd roared with laughter and cheered at the slip of the tongue, then introduced Albanese who he said would be more careful with his words

'What I said I want to be very, very clear that I was using the word contrast, the word contrast.'

The 43-year-old, who took over from Jackie Trad as deputy premier last year, said that despite his disagreements with Morrison's policies, he would 'never ever use language like that'.

'I understand that was a slight stutter and people might have misheard me but it certainly wasn't my intention.'
U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken has said that China believes it should be the 'dominant country in the world,' addressing rising tensions between Washington and Beijing.

An increasingly powerful China is challenging the world order, acting 'more repressively' and 'more aggressively' as it flexes its influence, Blinken told CBS 60 Minutes on Sunday.

'I think over that over time, China believes that it can be and should be and will be the dominant country in the world,' Blinken said.

'What we've witnessed over the last several years is China acting more repressively at home and more aggressively abroad. That is a fact,' the top American diplomat said.

U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken has said that China believes it should be the 'dominant country in the world,' addressing rising tensions between Washington and Beijing

Chinese leader Xi Jinping is seen speaking at a virtual climate summit on April 22

His comments came after President Joe Biden, in his first address to Congress on Wednesday, underscored that he was not seeking conflict with Beijing.

Biden said he told Chinese President Xi Jinping that in the competition to be the dominant power of the 21st century, 'we welcome the competition -- and that we are not looking for conflict.'

Blinken said China is 'the one country in the world that has the military, economic, diplomatic capacity to undermine or challenge the rules-based order that we care so much about and are determined to defend.

'But I want to be very clear about something... our purpose is not to contain China, to hold it back, to keep it down; it is to uphold this rules-based order that China is posing a challenge to.'

Tensions have risen sharply with China over the past few years as the United States also takes issue with Beijing's assertive military moves and human rights concerns, including what Washington has described as genocide against the mostly Muslim Uighur minority in Xinjiang.

'We've made clear that we see a genocide having taken place against the Uighurs in Xinjiang,' Blinken reiterated, in a claim that China furiously denies.

A guard tower and barbed wire fences surround an internment facility in the Kunshan Industrial Park in Artux in western China's Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region in 2018

Members of the Uighur community and human rights activists demonstrate outside the Houses of Parliament in London, United Kingdom on April 22

Asked about the reported theft of hundreds of billions of dollars or more in U.S. trade secrets and intellectual property by China, Blinken said the Biden administration had 'real concerns' about the IP issue.

He said it sounded like the actions 'of someone who's trying to compete unfairly and increasingly in adversarial ways. But we're much more effective and stronger when we're bringing like-minded and similarly aggrieved countries together to say to Beijing: 'This can't stand and it won't stand.''

On Friday, Biden's administration said China had fallen short on its commitments to protect American intellectual property in the 'Phase 1' U.S.-China trade deal signed last year.

The commitments were part of the sweeping deal between former President Donald Trump's administration and Beijing, which included regulatory changes on agricultural biotechnology and commitments to purchase some $200 billion in U.S. exports over two years.

Blinken arrived in London on Sunday for a G7 foreign ministers meeting where China is one of the issues on the agenda.

Chinese President Xi Jinping is seen last week at a ceremony commissioning three new warships to patrol the South China Sea, a vast territory that China claims as its own

China last week unveiled its latest warships as tensions simmer with Taiwan

In the interview, Blinken said the United States was not aiming to 'contain China' but to 'uphold this rules-based order - that China is posing a challenge to. Anyone who poses a challenge to that order, we're going to stand up and - and defend it.'

Biden has identified competition with China as his administration's greatest foreign policy challenge.

In his first speech to Congress last Wednesday, he pledged to maintain a strong U.S. military presence in the Indo-Pacific and to boost U.S. technological development.

Blinken said he speaks to Biden 'pretty close to daily.'

Last month, Blinken said the United States was concerned about China's aggressive actions against Taiwan and warned it would be a 'serious mistake' for anyone to try to change the status quo in the western Pacific by force.

The United States has a long-standing commitment under the Taiwan Relations Act to ensure that self-governing Taiwan has the ability to defend itself and to sustain peace and security in the western Pacific, Blinken said.

Taiwan has complained over the past few months of repeated missions by China's air force near the island, which China claims as its own.

Secretary of State Anthony Blinken says closing Guantanamo is 'certainly a goal' for Biden and joins Joint Chiefs Chairman in admitting US troop withdrawal from Afghanistan could lead to Taliban takeover

Secretary of State Antony Blinken said President Joe Biden's administration is planning to close the infamous Guantanamo Bay detention facility in Cuba but declined to offer a timeline in an interview aired Sunday.

'We believe that it should be [closed], that's certainly a goal, but it's something that we'll bring some focus to in the months ahead,' Blinken told 60 Minutes host Norah O'Donnell.

Biden has previously said he intends to shutter the prison at the Guantanamo Bay Naval Base known as 'Gitmo', which currently houses 40 high profile criminals linked to the War on Terror.

Blinken suggested that closure could be a long way off, in part because it would require approval from Congress to move some prisoners to the US for trial or imprisonment.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Sunday said President Joe Biden is planning to close the infamous Guantanamo Bay detention facility in Cuba 'in the coming months'

Guantanamo was among several issues Blinken addressed in the 60 Minutes interview, including the Biden administration's withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan, which began formally on Saturday.

Blinken reaffirmed Biden's commitment to maintaining support for the Afghan government after the withdrawal while acknowledging the possibility of the situation there taking a bad turn.

'Are you prepared for a worst case scenario in Afghanistan where the US-backed government fails, and the Taliban takes over?' O'Donnell asked.

Blinken said officials were watching the situation in 'a very clear-eyed way' and that they are 'prepared for every scenario'.

'We've been engaged in Afghanistan for 20 years and we sometimes forget why we went there in the first place, and that was to deal with the people who attacked us on 9/11. And we did,' he said.

'Just because our troops are coming home doesn't mean we're leaving. We're not,' he continued, saying that the American embassy would be staying and economic, development, and humanitarian support would continue from the US and our allies.'

Biden has previously said he intends to shutter the prison at the Guantanamo Bay Naval Base known as 'Gitmo', which currently houses 40 high profile criminals (file photo)

Blinken's comments came after Gen Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, admitted that Afghan government forces face an uncertain future and, in a worst-case scenario, some 'bad possible outcomes' against Taliban insurgents as the withdrawal of American and coalition troops accelerates in the coming weeks.

Milley described the Afghan military and police as 'reasonably well equipped, reasonably well trained, reasonably well led'.

He cited Afghan troops' years of experience against a resilient insurgency, but he declined to say they are fully ready to stand up to the Taliban without direct international backing during a potential Taliban offensive.

A veteran of the war in Afghanistan, Milley spoke in an interview with Associated Press and CNN reporters flying with him from Hawaii to Washington just hours after the formal kickoff of the withdrawal.
Lisa* relied on now reduced JobSeeker payments to survive during pandemic

A disabled single mum-of-three claims she's been forced to steal food to provide for her anorexic daughter after JobSeeker benefits were slashed last month.

Lisa*, 44, from Pakenham in south-east Melbourne, suffered two strokes in September 2017 that left her permanently disabled and unable to return to work to support her family.

After being diagnosed with depression, anxiety, high blood pressure and aphasia - a speech impairment - Lisa relied on JobSeeker benefits to survive during the pandemic.

'During Covid the government gave everyone on Centrelink benefits a taste of what it's like to live,' she told 7News.

A disabled single mum-of-three is forced to steal food to provide for her anorexic daughter (pictured) after JobSeeker benefits were slashed last month.

Lisa said it's a 'constant pressure' seeing her daughter 'so skinny, and not feed her fruit or vegetables' as she only weighs 36kgs

She said the benefits made her feel like she 'was part of society' and helped her save up $4,000 for emergencies.

Her payments went from $350 a fortnight to $885 during the pandemic, before dropping back down to a new low of $330.

'How dare the government give a sense of importance or some glimpse of a sustainable life and then just take all that money away and make us live like peasants again,' she said.

The mother says she is now only left with $20 per fortnight for food to feed her 18-year-old daughter who is recovering from anorexia.

Despite her beloved daughter weighing just 36kgs, Lisa said it's a 'constant pressure' seeing her daughter 'so skinny, and not feed her fruit or vegetables.'

In a desperate attempt to feed her family, Lisa was caught stealing bananas, milk, bread, washing detergent, shampoo and conditioner for the two of them last month.

She said the store let her off with a warning but did not want to 'make it a habit of stealing food to eat.'

The mother is now only left with $20 per fortnight for food to feed her 18-year-old daughter who is recovering from anorexia, who at times only has a piece of bread for meals

'I feel really ashamed doing that, it's so shameful, it's embarrassing,' she said.

The mother-of-three said to save money she only eats one meal a day - a single doughnut and three to four $1 7-Eleven coffees.

'Either that, or I eat noodles or baked beans or go without,' she added.

The 44-year-old said she doesn't know how she'll continue feeding her daughter as the cupboards are 'looking bare'.

Between herself and her 18-year-old daughter, Lisa has only $120 in savings and the pair receive additional payments from Centrelink and $50 per month for child support.

Her two older daughters aged 24 and 26 are unable to help.

Despite her ongoing struggles, Lisa's application for the disability support pension was rejected in March.

Services Australia General Manager Hank Jongen said they are unable to discuss individual cases but they have contacted the customer to ensure she's receiving all available support.

'We appreciate this is an extremely difficult situation for the customer and her family,' Mr Jongen said.

'We recognise medical conditions can have a significant impact on peoples lives, however, we do not have any discretion to grant payments outside the very clear criteria set down in legislation.'

'We encourage anyone experiencing financial hardship to contact us.'

'We have social workers and specialist staff to assist people in vulnerable or complex circumstances.'

A Department of Social Services spokesperson said that during the pandemic they have stood side-by-side with all Australians and their permanent arrangements continue to make good on that commitment to supporting Australians as they look for work.

'On 1 April 2021, the Australian Government provided the single biggest year on year increase to the rate of unemployment benefits since 1986  an increase of 9.7 per cent increase between 1 April 2020 and 1 April 2021,' a spokesperson said.

'The Government has put permanent policy settings in place that support Australians to seek work as the economy continues to reopen and we see positive indicators of economic growth.'

'Our working age payments system strikes the right balance between support for people while they look for a job and incentives to work while ensuring the sustainability of our social security safety net.'

*Name was changed for privacy reasons
Scott Morrison has insisted his threat to jail Australians arriving from Covid-ravaged India is not racist but based on medical necessity.

Australia last week banned direct commercial flights from India as the nation of 1.4billion battles a surge in illness and death with 401,993 coronavirus cases recorded on Sunday.

From Monday any Australian who enters via a third country having been in India in the past 14 days faces a fine of up to $66,000 and five years in jail under the Biosecurity Act.

A crematorium for mass cremation in New Delhi, India on Saturday as the virus ravages the nation

The Greens have called the measure 'horrific and racist' and Labor has called it 'extraordinary' and accused the government of abandoning 10,000 Australian citizens and residents who are stranded at least until chartered repatriation flights resume on May 15.

Critics pointed out that the government did not threaten to jail or fine people returning from the US or Europe when those countries were suffering from the disease over winter.

But Mr Morrison said the measure was simply to protect Australians' health and dismissed accusations of racism.

'The same accusations were made against the government over a year ago when we closed the borders to mainland China,' he told Sydney radio station 2GB.

'There's no politics or ideology in a pandemic... It's got nothing to do with politics, this is a virus.'

Australia last week banned direct commercial flights from India as the nation of 1.4billion battles a surge in illness and death with 401,993 coronavirus cases recorded on Sunday

Mr Morrison said the Biosecurity Act powers would be used sensibly and added: 'We've done all the right things to keep Australia safe during this pandemic. This is another very difficult decision. I feel terribly for the Indian community.'

Independent MP Zali Steggall said the jail threat was 'the first step to a totalitarian state' and Greens Senator Mehreen Faruqi said the measures were 'absolutely horrific and racist'.

Labor leader Anthony Albanese called the decision 'extraordinary', adding: 'The government's got to justify how it is that the figures from India are similar to what they've been in the past from the UK and the US, but we haven't seen these sort of measures.

'Australia has obligations to our citizens, to people who are Australians, not just to abandon them overseas.'

The Australian Human Rights Commission said in a statement: 'The Government must show that these measures are not discriminatory and are the only suitable way of dealing with the threat to public health.'

About 600,000 Australians have Indian ancestry, according to the 2016 census.
Australians can have a water view in style for a tenth the price of a typical Sydney house if they buy a home with four wheels.

Sydney's median house price surged by another 2.8 per cent in April to an even more unaffordable $1.147million - a level beyond the reach of an average-income earner on $89,000 a year, CoreLogic data showed.

For that price, it's possible to buy a house at Merrylands in the western suburbs - but it's more than 30km from Bondi Beach.

Australians can have a water view in style for a tenth the price of a typical Sydney house if they buy a home with four wheels. For $94,990 drive away, an aspiring traveller can buy a 2021 model Volkswagen Transporter converted into a camper than sleeps four people

Buying a waterfront home or anything near the beach is even more unattainable with regional house prices soaring too, especially in Byron Bay.

Those buying a motorhome can live right near the beach, or a different one each night, for a fraction of the price.

For $94,990 drive away, an aspiring traveller can buy a 2021 model Volkswagen Transporter converted into a camper than sleeps four people.

That is slightly cheaper than a $98,000 Broken Hill house in the far west of NSW - more than 800km from the ocean.

That is slightly cheaper than a $98,000 Broken Hill house in the far west of NSW - 827km from the ocean

Those on a budget can pick up a 2016 Fiat Ducato for a shade under $50,000 which had 59,243km on the clock and sleeps two people.

At the other end of the spectrum, seven and eight-metre long Iveco motorhomes cost upwards of $200,000, rising to $324,000 for a nine-metre-long Avida Longreach based on an Isuzu N-series truck that sleeps six.

That price is more than Darwin's median apartment price of $309,181 but despite that, Avida Longreach has a waiting list stretching until August, as the ban on overseas holiday travel encourages Australians to seek a local adventure.

Caravans, however, have had quality issues with the Federal Court fining Jayco $75,000 for misleading consumers about their rights.

Those on a budget can pick up a 2016 Fiat Ducato for a shade under $50,000 which had 59,243km on the clock and sleeps two people

A judge accepted the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission's argument a customer was entitled to a refund or a replacement, and not just a repair, if there were major faults.

The court found Jayco caravans bought by four customers were of poor quality, including water leaks when it rained and multiple roof collapses.

The ACCC first launched legal proceedings against Jayco in November 2017.

A Jayco spokesman said the company regretted being found to have contravened Australian consumer law in its dealings with one customer.

'It intends to ensure that its contravening conduct does not reoccur,' he said.
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Hundreds of supporters of Andrew Brown Jr.'s family filed past his open casket on Sunday a day before his funeral, and went on to hold a peaceful protest calling for police to release the bodycam footage of his death.

Brown, 42, was shot and killed while at the wheel of his car in his driveway by Pasquotank County deputies serving drug-related search and arrest warrants in Elizabeth City, North Carolina, at 8.30am on April 21.

Mourners gathered on Sunday, the day before his funeral, as his body was displayed at two locations in the city.

Community members began their march with a viewing of Brown Jr's body at Horton's Funeral Home.

His coffin was covered with a satin sheet, and surrounded by vases of red roses.

Among the mourners paying their respects were Brown's family, friends, and neighbors, as well as local faith and city leaders.

Brown's body was later moved to an auditorium at the Museum of the Albemarle in Elizabeth City, where around 300 people had viewed it by late afternoon, The News & Observer reported.

Edwin and Ella Newby pay their respects in front of the open casket of Andrew Brown Jr. at a funeral home in Hertford

Protestors comfort one another at a peaceful demonstration on Sunday morning - a day before Andrew Brown is due to be buried

A funeral home employee stands near the open casket of Andrew Brown Jr. during a viewing in Hertford, North Carolina

Mourners Edwin and Ella Newby watch a slideshow of Brown's life beside his coffin at Horton's Funeral Home in Hertford, North Carolina

Andrew Brown was shot by deputies in North Carolina on April 21 while executing an arrest warrant

The solemn procession moved on to nearby Waterfront Park, where community members held a press briefing to once again call for police to release the video footage.

On Wednesday, a judge refused to release body cam footage of Brown being shot dead after a prosecutor said he hit deputies with his car before they fired the shots that killed him.

Judge Jeffrey Foster denied a media petition to release the footage publicly for at least 30 days, saying it might impede the ongoing investigation.

Since Brown's death on April 21, the city of Elizabeth City was rocked by nearly two weeks of consecutive protests calling for greater transparency from law enforcement, which saw demonstrators and police clash in the streets.

However, Sunday's march had two themes according to local clergy: peace and community.

'We're building a community around Andrew Brown's death because what happens here in Pasquotank is happening all over,' organizer Rev. Greg Drumwright told Wavy.com.

'We're going to keep applying pressure from all sides from activism to policy shaping to make sure that there's some change in this county and throughout North Carolina,' he said.

The FBIs Charlotte field office, which opened a civil rights investigation into Browns death, said in a statement earlier in the week that its agents planned to work closely with the Department of Justice 'to determine whether federal laws were violated.'

Afterwards, lawyers for the Brown family said they have 'great faith' in the investigation.

They also called separate footage taken by a neighbor of the moment a large group of cops surrounded Brown Jr.'s car 'an inflamed modern-day lynch mob'.

The independent autopsy was performed last week by a pathologist hired by Brown's family. The exam noted four wounds to the right arm and one to the head. The states autopsy has not been released yet.

Two of Brown's children pose along with family members next to where a mural of Brown has been painted on the side of a house

A protester carries a sign that reads 'Blue Lives Murder' as people took to the streets of Elizabeth City in North Carolina once again to call for the release of bodycam footage

A protester looks out at a crowd gathered outside the Pasquatank County sheriff's building eleven days after deputies killing Andrew Brown

Local artist and business owner Ulysses Edwards, with microphone, speaks at the home of Andrew Brown Jr. during a stop in a march. Edwards spoke about painting a memorial mural in honor of Brown on the side of Brown's home

Andrew Brown Jr., who was killed by law enforcement on April 21, poses with his daughter in an undated photograph

The family's lawyers also released a copy of the death certificate, which lists the cause of death as a 'penetrating gunshot wound of the head.'

The certificate, signed by a paramedic services instructor who serves as a local medical examiner, describes the death as a homicide.

Brown's family have carried out a pathology report which showed he was shot four times in the arm and once in the back of the head.

They have called the killing an 'execution'.

Terrell Green, a cousin of Brown's, came to pay his respects on Sunday morning.

Green told The News & Observer he was with Brown on the night that he died.

He said he had attended the nightly protests, where marchers demanded the release of all camera footage and vehicle dash cameras.

'I just feel like they're trying to hide something,' Green said. 'We just want the truth.'

North Carolina NAACP president Rev. Dr. T. Anthony Spearman told Wavy.com : 'I think they're encouraged by the consistency that they've been seeing coming out of the community. And I believe the community will continue to do things that are sustainable for them and continue to embrace and support them moving forward.'

Mourners will gather on Monday for Brown's funeral, with eulogists planning to celebrate his legacy and reflect on his life.

The invite-only service at noon in a church in Elizabeth City follows public viewings the previous day.

The Rev. Al Sharpton will deliver the eulogy, and other speakers will include Brown's relatives as well as civil rights attorney Ben Crump, whos representing Browns family, and the Rev. William Barber II, leader of the Poor People's campaign.

Family members have said that Brown was a proud father of seven, who was known for entertaining relatives with his stories and jokes.

Brown's family asked Sharpton to deliver the eulogy because they felt the civil rights leader would properly honor his legacy. Sharpton recently delivered the eulogy for Daunte Wright, who was shot and killed by a police officer in Minnesota.

Sharpton told The Associated Press that he wants to both celebrate Browns life and help call attention to larger problems with policing that need to be addressed.

'I would want to get across that this is a human being. And for us, its part of a continual abuse of police power,' he said.
Influential conservative commentator Andrew Bolt has slammed Australia's 'racist' government for banning flights from India - calling it a 'shameful' and 'cruel' to leave thousands of Australians stranded during the nation's health crisis.

Australia has made it illegal for citizens to fly home from the Covid-ravaged South Asian nation under an emergency law which came into effect from 12:01am on Monday.

Citizens who arrive in Australia having been in India in the past 14 days could be charged and face five years in prison and a $66,600 fine - the first time Aussies have been stopped from returning home under the threat of jail time.

Speaking on Sky News on Monday, Bolt slammed health minister Greg Hunt who said the government had a sacred duty to protect Australia while trying to justify the unprecedented travel ban that impacts about 9,000 citizens stuck in India.

'Not quite. We have a sacred duty to protect Australians, the people of Australia. And for the Indian-Australians stuck in India unable to escape, unable to come home to a decent healthcare system here if they're ill, I think is a shame on this country,' he said.

Australia has made illegal for anyone who has been in India in the last 14 days to return. Pictured, returning travellers arriving at Sydney Airport on Monday

'What we are now saying with this ban is, if you happen to get sick in India, an Australian citizen, take your chances with their hospitals, which we have seen are running out of things like oxygen, let alone medicines.

'I just think this is a terrible stain that betrays how panicked we are with fear. I'm not saying bring them and let them loose in the streets.'

He said while he was 'really critical of in the past of people playing the race card' he had heard from Indian-Australians who were demanding to know 'why us. why is this happening?'.

'I do think the politicians may not be doing this for racist motives but they're allowed to get away with it because, I think, in part, racism, fear and ignorance,' Bolt said.

'I cannot help but think the fact that they're Indian-born is a factor in this, and shame on us.

'We're now implying, that somehow they still don't belong, That if they're in trouble overseas, if they're in trouble in India, we will not rescue them, it's every man for himself then.'

Conservative commentator Andrew Bolt (pictured) said the decision to ban citizens from returning from India was 'cruel'

Bolt said Aussie citizens could be treated 'more capably' in Australia and there was more of a chance of saving lives compared to in India, which is in the midst of a catastrophic healthcare crisis.

'We have medical facilities that should be able to cope with it and I think we are just leaving people in the lurch,' he said.

'I Just think it's so shameful. It would've been so inspiring for us to do an airlift of Australian citizens stuck in India, brought to Christmas Island, or maybe even a tent camp out in the Northern Territory, for quarantining, just to rescue everyone.'

In an opinion piece for the Herald Sun, Bolt said he did not believe the government 'would impose such a travel ban on white Australians fleeing from, say, England'.

'To me, it stinks of racism to tell the 8000 Indian Australians trying to come home that they must stay in India, in what Western Australia's Premier admitted was the "epicentre of death and destruction",' Bolt wrote.

Mr Bolt said it was better for Australia to bring citizens back and treat them on home soil rather them having to face medical treatment in India which is in the midst of a healthcare crisis. Pictured, patients diagnosed with Covid-19 in New Delhi, India

'How cruel we are to enforce this virus travel when the risk of these Australians dying of the coronavirus is much higher in India, where hospitals are running out of supplies, than theyd be here, where their treatment would be guaranteed.'

'The death of any Australian in India because of this ban will shame the Prime Minister and everyone cheering this despicable and irrational policy. Any death will be because we turned our back on our own.'

Nationals Senator Matthew Canavan said his own government should look at fixing the hotel quarantine system rather than imposing travel bans.

'We should be helping Aussies in India return not jailing them. Let's fix our quarantine system rather than leave our fellow Australians stranded,' he said.
One of President Joe Biden's top White House advisers suggested on Sunday that he's still wearing a mask outdoors out of habit despite the latest public health guidance saying he doesn't need it.

Questioned about Biden's practice, senior adviser Anita Dunn told CNN's State of the Union that she realized that she was also still wearing her mask outdoors even after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said fully vaccinated people like her and Biden can stop wearing masks outside when they're alone or not among strangers.

'I myself found that I was still wearing my mask outdoors this week, because it has become such a matter of habit,' Dunn said.

One of President Joe Biden 's top White House advisers suggested on Sunday that he's still wearing a mask outdoors out of habit despite the latest public health guidance saying he doesn't need it. Joe Biden and wife Jill are pictured wearing masks near the White House on Sunday night after spending the weekend in Wilmington

Biden wore a mask outdoors several times last week as he approached microphones to give speeches, including an appearance on the White House lawn last Tuesday to discuss the CDC's relaxed mask guidance. He is pictured stepping off Marine One in Washington DC on Sunday night with wife Jill

'I think the president takes the CDC guidelines very seriously. And he's always taken his role as sending a signal to follow the science very seriously, as well,' Biden's senior adviser Anita Dunn said to CNN on Sunday

'I think the president takes the CDC guidelines very seriously. And he's always taken his role as sending a signal to follow the science very seriously, as well.'

Biden wore a mask outdoors several times last week as he approached microphones to give speeches, including an appearance on the White House lawn last Tuesday to discuss the CDC's relaxed mask guidance.

Asked afterward about the message he was sending by wearing a mask outside as he stood alone, Biden replied: 'By watching me take it off and not put it back on until I get inside.'

On Thursday, the president spent some 30 seconds looking for his face mask during an appearance in Georgia despite the fact that he has been fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

President Joe Biden is seen wearing a face mask despite being outside as he arrives to speak at an event to mark Amtrak's 50th anniversary at 30th Street Station in Philadelphia on Friday

President Biden spent some 30 seconds looking for his face mask during an appearance in Duluth, Georgia on Thursday despite the fact that he has been fully vaccinated against COVID-19

Biden got some help from his wife, First Lady Jill Biden, who leafed through the binder but was unable to locate the elusive face covering

President Joe Biden speaks during a rally without his face mask in Georgia on Thursday

'Looking for my mask, I'm in trouble,' the president said as he searched the podium in Duluth.

Biden was in the Peach State on Thursday to mark his 100th day in office and to tout his $4trillion infrastructure proposal designed to fix the countrys crumbling highways and bridges.

After he delivered his speech, he was joined on stage by the two Democratic senators from the state - but the president was seen fumbling through his binder full of notes as he appeared to have misplaced his mask.

Biden got some help from his wife, First Lady Jill Biden, who leafed through the binder but was unable to locate the elusive face covering.

Finally, an aide walked up to the stage and handed the president the mask, much to his delight as he held it aloft.

His dogged insistence on continuing to wear a mask in obviously safe settings has sparked controversy, with critics claiming Biden's behavior is pointless, and could even undermine faith in COVID-19 vaccines.

The president - who completed his two-dose Pfizer COVID vaccine in January - says he is sticking with mask wearing America's huge vaccination drive continues, in a bid to set a good example.

Biden was in the Peach State on Thursday to mark his 100th day in office and to tout his $4trillion infrastructure proposal designed to fix the countrys crumbling highways and bridges.

The CDC recently said Americans fully vaccinated against COVID-19 don't need to cover their faces anymore unless they're in a large crowd of strangers.

Some public health experts have questioned Biden's continued mask-wearing outdoors.

Speaking on CNN on Sunday, Dunn said some extra precautions are taken with Biden since he is president.

She urged people to follow CDC guidelines and to get fully vaccinated because that will mean they can go mask-free outside as summer approaches.

President Biden removes his face mask when he arrives at the podium to speak, where he addressed the new CDC guidance on mask wearing last week

President Joe Biden said he wore a face mask so people could watch him take it off and not put it back on until he was inside

Last week, White House press secretary Jen Psaki said the president will follow the new guidelines but conceded it will take some time to adapt the new habit.

'He'll be following public health guidelines so I think you saw him outside today - he took the mask off, he didn't put the mask back on,' she said at her press briefing. 'It will take some time to adjust and adapt for all of us.'

The president stressed that getting vaccinated means getting back to normal life.

'Vaccines are about saving your life, but also the lives of the people around you, but they're also about helping to get us get back to closer to living our normal lives, getting together with friends, going through the park for a picnic without needing a basket or back to that place now as long as you get vaccinated,' Biden said. 'So go get the shot. It's never been easier.'

President Biden was pictured to give his remarks last Tuesday wearing a face mask but left with his face mask in hand

President Biden spoke from the North Lawn of the White House, with his podium near the drive way, well away from the gathered media

He also pointed out the new CDC guidelines: 'Starting today, if you're fully vaccinated and you're outdoors and not in a big crowd, you no longer need to wear a mask.'

After his remarks, he left the podium, set up next to the driveway outside the White House, with his face mask in hand.

'If you are fully vaccinated, things are much safer for you,' said CDC Director Dr Rochelle Walensky during a Tuesday COVID team briefing.

'There are many situations in which Americans do not need to wear masks if they are fully vaccinated, particularly outdoors.'

As long as they are outside, people who are fully vaccinated can now exercise, go to small gatherings or restaurants with people who are vaccinated or unvaccinated.

It comes amid mounting evidence - finally acknowledged by the CDC on Tuesday - that outdoor transmission of coronavirus is exceedingly rare, accounting for less than 10 percent of cases. Those risks are mainly linked to crowded events that can turn into super-spreader events, or people who were in close range of one another.

However, in crowded places like concerts, parades or sporting events, even vaccinated people should still wear masks, the CDC's new guidance says.

The guidance is merely that - advice about what the health agency has deemed safe - and is not enforceable. It's up to states, counties and cities to issue mask mandates and other restrictions.
The Bafta boss who have gave Noel Clarke an award despite being told of sex claims against the actor had worked with him as part of a diversity drive a year earlier, it has been claimed.

Krishnendu Majumdar is said to have teamed up with the Viewpoint star in a group to help increase diversity in the Bafta awards last year.

The diversity drive was launched after criticism, including from Prince William, that the nominees were 'overwhelmingly white'.

It has since been claimed that Bafta was made aware of sexual harassment claims against Clarke prior to handing him an award for outstanding British contribution to cinema.

But lawyers for Bafta are said to have advised bosses at the time that the claims - which at that point did not include first hand accounts - did not warrant suspending the award to Clarke, according to the Times.

Bafta denies knowing about the claims against Clarke prior to the announcement of the award in March.

After Clarke was given the award, the Guardian printed allegations from 20 women who claimed they were sexually harassed or groped by the celebrated actor and director over a 15 year period.

A further seven women have since come forward.

Clarke has said he is 'deeply sorry' for his actions but strongly denies sexual misconduct or any criminal wrongdoing.

The Bafta boss who have gave Noel Clarke (pictured) an award despite being told of sex claims against the actor had worked with him as part of a diversity drive a year earlier, it has been claimed

Krishnendu Majumdar is said to have teamed-up with the Viewpoint star to help increase diversity in the Bafta awards

According to the Times, Mr Majumdar, the first person of colour to become chairman of Bafta, was deputy chairman last year when he led a group aiming to increase diversity in the awards.

Clarke, who has been a consistent advocate of diversity in the British film industry, in which he previously claimed racism is embedded, was reportedly a member of that same steering group.

It is claimed Bafta first learned of the allegations on March 29 - the day the award was announced - when award-winning film director Sally El Hosaini, talent manager Pelumi Akindude and Bafta-winning actor James Krishna Floyd wrote a joint letter to the organisations chiefs.

In the letter they said they were extremely concerned about its intention to give Clarke the award given the first-hand accounts they had heard.

Later the Guardian printed the allegations of the 20 women. Bafta then suspended the award and Clarke's membership.

A spokesperson for Bafta said in a statement on its website: 'We acted as quickly and supportively as we could, even though we had only received the most generic of claims and no actual firsthand information to investigate allegations which were potentially of a criminal nature.

'Our lawyers have advised us every step of the way during this process to ensure we handled the matter correctly.

'Given that we did not have any of the personal testimony that The Guardian produced we were in an invidious situation and it would have been improper to halt the award at that point based on the extremely limited information that we had where the ultimate sources were unknown.'

It comes as Bafta president Prince William yesterday said he was 'kept in the dark' about the sex allegations ahead of the actor-producer's recognition by the academy.

The Duke of Cambridge's speech was cancelled because of the death of his grandfather the Duke of Edinburgh but it is reported he had planned to praise Bafta for its diversity.

Bafta President Prince William (pictured, left, at last year's ceremony) was 'kept in dark' about allegations facing actor and producer Noel Clark (right) and was due to praise the academy for its diversity before his speech was cancelled after the death of his grandfather last month

Prince William had shared his 'frustration' at the lack of diversity at the white-dominated Baftas last year and announced a 'full and thorough review'.

But as the academy rewarded Mr Clarke for his 'outstanding British contribution' to cinema, its president was set to praise Bafta, unaware that Clarke faced a string of sexual misconduct allegations, the Sunday Times reported.

Yesterday one of the actresses to make sexual misconduct claims against Clark said she called the police alleging the actor secretly filmed her naked during an audition.

Jahannah James, 31, is one of the 27 women who have accused the Viewpoint star, 45, of a campaign of sexual harassment and bullying.

Ms James, who co-starred in Brotherhood with Clarke, claims the actor secretly filmed her while she did a naked audition.

The actress, who made the claim on Twitter, was questioned by some social media users as to why she 'did not go to the police' at the time.

However, Ms James has now claimed she did in fact speak to officers, but they declined to open an investigation.

Writing on Twitter, she said: 'I tried to go to the police, they said they couldn't do anything unless he threatened me with the footage!!!

Jahannah James is one of the 27 women who have accused the Viewpoint star of a campaign of sexual harassment and bullying

'And I wasn't in a place where I could speak out alone at the time. It's only together we've been able to speak now.'

It comes as Scotland Yard has said it is 'assessing' a specific allegation, following claims from 27 women now saying they were sexually harassed or groped by the celebrated actor and director. He strongly denies the allegations.

The Met Police confirmed that a 'third-party report' was made on April 21 'relating to allegations of sexual offences committed by a male over a period of time'.

A third party report is when claims are made to an organisation separate from the police. This type of report is anonymous and means the claims cannot be probed by officers but can be used as intelligence.

A spokesman said no criminal investigation had been launched but that officers are 'currently assessing the information'.

They added: 'We would urge anyone who believes they have been subjected to a sexual offence to report this to police so the information can be assessed and investigated accordingly.'

Clarke has apologised 'deeply' for his actions, but has 'vehemently' denied sexual misconduct or criminal behaviour.
This was their house, read the post, written on April 23. It caught on fire last night and they had to jump off the third floor in order to survive. Thankfully, they are both incredibly strong and currently recovering. If you want, you can help them get back on their feet by donating.
A woman who impersonated a Home and Away heartthrob to 'catfish' women online is accused of attempting to bust up a married man's relationship after becoming infatuated with him.

Melbourne woman Lydia Abdelmalek, 29, was sentenced in June 2019 to a two-year, eight-month prison term for six counts of stalking, employing what one victim called 'sick mind games' and impersonating soap star Lincoln Lewis.

On Monday she was released back into the community on bail after being locked up on April 22 amid fresh allegations she is again tormenting strangers.

Lydia Abdelmalek (right), and her father leave the County Court of Victoria last year

The former Home and Away (pictured) star told the court at an earlier appearance he felt powerless in the face of the catfish scam

How Abdelmalek drove a woman to DEATH Abdelmalek had pretended to be Lincoln Lewis and used other aliases to stalk seven people for about four years from May 2011. One of Abdelmalek's victims took her own life last year, but wrote a statement beforehand outlining the trauma of being duped into believing the TV star was in love with her. The woman said she felt tortured for the 'sick fascination, perverse pleasure and unhealthy satisfaction' of her tormentor. Another victim said she had turned from the life of the party to a recluse after what the sentencing magistrate described as 'calculated and cruel' offending. Abdelmalek went as far as sending explicit images of the woman and vulgar messages to her father, mother, sister and brother-in-law. Another woman, who was similarly scammed by the Lewis alias, said the 'sick mind games' turned her from a confident person into a recluse. The former Home and Away star told the court at an earlier appearance he felt powerless by the catfishing. 'It kills your vibe, it ruins your day. It makes you feel powerless and it makes you feel s**t,' he said. Advertisement

She had originally been released with a $10,000 surety after appealing her sentence and released, as long as she complied with strict social media restrictions.

On Monday, Magistrate Meagan Keogh again ordered her off social media.

In documents filed to the Melbourne Magistrates' Court, it was revealed how police allege Abdelmalek was back up to her old tricks.

Police allege Abdelmalek befriended her alleged victim about a year ago and quickly began monitoring her social media pages.

Months later she met the woman at a shopping centre near her home in Epping where she bragged about her notoriety.

'Do you know I'm very famous,' she allegedly told the woman. 'Do you watch the news?'

Abdelmalek proceeded to deny the allegations she was sentenced over in 2019 before asking her about her secret relationship with a man who would become her second alleged victim.

In March this year, police allege Abdelmalek confronted the man at work where she threatened him.

'Do you want to play these games? I can play these games in front of everyone,' court documents allege she said.

Police allege Abdelmalek then began tormenting that man's alleged mistress via fake Facebook accounts.

The court heard police claimed Abdelmalek got into a heated argument with the man at an Aldi supermarket in Epping - north of Melbourne - in March where she claimed he slapped her mobile phone from her hand.

She later made public complaints to the supermarket giant using false online accounts, it was alleged.

The cruel scammer appeared in the Heidelberg Magistrates' Court last week on a swag of new charges, including stalking, using a carriage service to harass and committing offences while on bail.

Lydia Abdelmalek leaves court in February last year with her barrister as reporters hit her with a barrage of questions

At that hearing, her lawyer, Stary Norton Halphen's Sam Norton attacked the credibility of the alleged male victim, whose claim of assault was withdrawn by police on Friday after a series of text exchanges he had with Abdelmalek appeared.

'Is it because of messages like this,' Mr Norton said. 'See you told me you loved me last time ha ha ha I never did.'

The respected barrister proceeded to read out a series of bizarre exchanges between the pair indicating they were in an intimate relationship themselves.

'No-one can forget my smell,' the alleged victim wrote. 'I am like a sweet poison.'

Mr Norton claimed the victim was lying about the allegations that saw his client locked up.

He had hoped to have Abdelmalek released from jail on Friday, but was hampered by a videolink that only lasted 45 minutes.

Tight lipped: Lydia Abdelmalek had nothing to say as she tried to escape a media pack that chased her and her father along Lonsdale Street outside the County Court of Victoria in February last year

Mr Norton had condemned the way police had gone about locking up his client and proceeded to come to court unprepared.

The court had heard the police officer who pressed the charges against Abdelmalek had failed to read a series of texts he claimed cast doubt on the allegations.

'I'm very considerably troubled by this and I'm going to cease my cross examination,' Mr Norton told the magistrate.

'This woman should be released immediately. The approach that has been taken here, is in my submission, an absolute disgrace... the fact that these messages haven't been considered or read just beggars belief.'

Prosecutors had strongly opposed the alleged catfisher being granted bail, declaring she was accused of carrying out similar offences that she had been appealing in the County Court of Victoria.

Abdelmalek will next appear in court on August 9.

Lydia Abdelmalek had remained free in the community on appeal bail before new allegations surfaced

Soap star Lincoln Lewis explained how powerless the catfishing left him, telling the court at an earlier appearance he felt powerless

One of Abdelmalek's (pictured) victims took her own life last year, but wrote a statement beforehand outlining the trauma of being duped into believing the TV star was in love with her

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The Covid-19 outbreak at Mount Everest Base Camp has seen dozens of climbers evacuated from base camp, it has been claimed.

It comes after the first known case of the virus was documented at the mountain's base camp on April 15.

The situation has apparently deteriorated, with reports that over 30 climbers have been forced to evacuate via helicopter.

A British climber who was flown to a Kathmandu hospital where he tested positive for Covid-19 has said that social distancing measures were not being properly enforced on the mountain.

The Covid-19 outbreak at Mount Everest Base Camp has seen dozens of climbers evacuated from base camp, it has been claimed. The Base Camp is pictured above

British climber Steve Harris, pictured above, was flown to hospital in Kathmandu last week where he tested positive for Covid-19

Climber Steve Harris's planned two-month expedition was cut short when he was diagnosed with High-Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE), a potentially fatal form of severe high-altitude illness, at Base Camp on April 20 and flown to the village of Namche Bazaar.

Speaking to MailOnline, the mountaineer from York said: 'I was initially diagnosed with HAPE at Everest Base Camp and flown to Namche Bazaar to recover.

'I wasnt asked about or offered a Covid-19 test. After four days in Namche, I was medivac by helicopter to hospital in Kathmandu where I was tested and confirmed positive for Covid-19 and pneumonia and spent a week in intensive care.

'I have been released from hospital but am still having to isolate in a hotel as I am still positive for Covid.'

He added that prior to his evacuation there were 'rumours' of Covid-19 in camp but nothing had been confirmed.

'Social distancing and masks weren't really being enforced,' he said.

The Covid-19 outbreak at Mount Everest Base Camp has seen dozens of climbers evacuated from base camp, it has been claimed. File image of Mount Everest's Base Camp above

The incident meant Harris, who works as a property developer, was forced to abandon his plans to summit Mount Everest before climbing K2 in June.

Writing in a blog post from hospital on April 29, he said: 'As quick as the idea that I could go back up the mountain and try again pops in my head I dismiss it, the mountain will wait and my wife has been through enough for 2021 but one things for sure, one day, maybe next year maybe the year after Ill get to the top of that mountain.'

According to Polish climber Pawel Michalski, over 30 people have already been evacuated from Mount Everest to Kathmandu.

Nepali journalist Rojita Adhikari tweeted on April 30 that the Nepali Government 'is still denying' that there has been a Covid-19 outbreak on Everest.

'The Nepal Government is still denying there is a COVID outbreak at Everest base camp, despite emerging evidence,' she wrote.

In this file photo taken on September 14, 2013 Mount Everest is seen from an aircraft over Nepal

'I tested positive soon after I returned from the camp. Why is the government hiding the truth? Why are they putting hundreds of climbers at risk? For tourism money?'

Climbers were allowed to return to the mountain last month for the first time since the pandemic hit.

Mountaineers and government officials stated climbers will be scaling the peak under Covid-19 restrictions.

The climbing season restarted on the world's greatest mountain in April after it was forced to close to climbers for a year due to the pandemic,

Over 300 climbers are predicted to attempt to scale the mountain, which stands at 29,032 feet (8,848.86 meters), this season, compared to 381 climbers, who attempted to climb it in the same period in 2019.
A senior minister today refused to say that Boris Johnson will quit if he is found to have broken conduct rules over his lavish flat makeover - despite the Scottish Tory leader insisting he would have to go.

James Cleverly dodged questions, suggesting that the ministerial code was merely there for the 'guidance of the PM' when he appoints his team.

The comments came despite Douglas Ross, the most senior Tory north of the border, saying bluntly that 'of course' Mr Johnson should resign if he did not abide by the standards.

Several probes are under way into the tangled financing of the costly refurbishment  including an investigation by Mr Johnson's new adviser on ministerial interests, Lord Geidt.

Meanwhile, the PM is also facing allegations that Tory donors were approached to pay for his personal trainer and a nanny for his son Wilf.

However, as head of the Government the premier is still the final arbiter on any breaches of the ministerial code.

James Cleverly (left) dodged questions, suggesting that the ministerial code was merely there for the 'guidance' of Boris Johnson (right) when he appoints his team

The PM (pictured with Carrie Symonds last year) has been struggling to quell the 'wallpapergate' row over his grace-and-favour residence

In a round of broadcast interviews this morning, Mr Cleverly was repeatedly pressed on whether Mr Johnson should resign if he broke the ministerial code.

'The ministerial code is there for the guidance of the PM in appointing ministers,' he told Sky News.

'I don't know any more detail than the things the PM has already said.'

Pushed on whether a PM who breaks the code should go 'on principle', he said: 'It is pointless speculating about what actions might be taken... it is not as simple as you have set out.'

Speaking to Times Radio Mr Cleverly said: 'The investigations and reports that will come out into the public domain about this need to come out.

'I'm not going to speculate about what the content of those reports will be or how the Prime Minister responds to any of those reports.

'Speculating about the outcome or what comes next is not right.

'We'll let the reports do their thing and the Prime Minister will make the decisions based on any recommendations that those reports have in them.'

Mr Ross was asked on BBC1's The Andrew Marr Show yesterday if Mr Johnson should quit if found to be in breach of the code.

He replied: 'Of course, I think people expect the highest standards of those in the highest office of the land, that's why I think people are looking at the investigations that are currently ongoing and waiting for the answers.'

Mr Ross is the most senior Tory to question the funding arrangements, putting him at odds with No 10.

His comments are likely to infuriate Downing Street, which has sought to play down the row. Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab yesterday dismissed claims that a Tory donor was asked to pay for a nanny for Mr Johnson's one-year-old son Wilfred as 'tittle-tattle'.

Douglas Ross, the most senior Tory north of the border, said yesterday that the Prime Minister should 'of course' quit if he did not abide by the standards of conduct expected of ministers

The Sunday Times reported that senior Conservatives said donors have been approached about funding other aspects of the PM and Carrie Symonds' lifestyle.

One donor is alleged to have said: 'I don't mind paying for leaflets but I resent being asked to pay to literally wipe the Prime Minister's baby's bottom.'

Mr Raab said he had 'no idea' if the claim was correct, adding: 'You don't have conversations like that with the PM.'

A No 10 spokesman said the Prime Minister 'has covered the cost of all childcare', but did not say whether he paid for the original bill himself.

The Foreign Secretary declined to deny a claim that a second invoice for the renovations may have been settled with the supplier by a Tory donor.

Mr Raab also sidestepped questions over whether Mr Johnson should resign if he is found to have broken the law by the Electoral Commission.

The Electoral Commission last week launched an investigation into whether any donations or loans were properly declared. It is also the subject of an internal review by the Cabinet Secretary Simon Case, and there have been calls for the Parliamentary Standards Commissioner Kathryn Stone to investigate.

Mr Johnson last week said he has now paid the 58,000 cost overrun and described the row as a 'farrago of nonsense'.

Shadow Foreign Secretary Lisa Nandy said yesterday: 'We need to know who the Prime Minister is beholden to, we need to know what he has promised in return.'

Mr Johnson's chaotic decision-making has led No 10 insiders to nickname him 'Trolley', according to the BBC.

One source said: 'You think you are pushing it along a path towards your goal then suddenly it veers off disastrously.'

Downing Street has declined to comment on the name.
Caller ID is no longer a safe way to protect yourself from fraudsters, the telecoms watchdog has warned.

Ofcom has said the technology is easy for criminals to exploit and can not be solely relied upon to detect scams.

In a method known as 'number spoofing', fraudsters can deliberately change their caller ID to disguise who they are or even pose as legitimate organisations.

This means that when they call their target, the number that comes up on their target's phone makes it look like they are being called by their bank, for example.

Huw Saunders, a director at Ofcom, told BBC Radio 4's Money Box programme that the problem is global in scale and that the UK is lagging behind when it comes to tackling the problem.

Ofcom has warned caller ID can no longer be trusted as the sole method of detecting when you are being targeted by scammers over the phone as it is too easy for criminals to manipulate

He said: 'It's going to take a few years. If you look at a comparable situation in France, for example, they now have a timetable for the implementation of a particular technical solution and that is over a three-year period.'

In the UK, the phone network is being switched over to a new system with the aim to complete this by 2025.

When the new system, known as Voice over Internet Protocol, is in place the industry will be able to stop number spoofing.

There has been an increase in cases of number spoofing in the last year and criminals have been able to steal thousands of pounds from unsuspecting victims who have been reassured by caller ID verification.

A recent report from UK finance revealed that 479 million was stolen from 150,000 people in the UK largely through the use of number spoofing scams.

In one example shared on the BBC, Ope Oladejo, a 21-year-old law student, was scammed out of nearly 2,000 by fraudsters using a number spoofing scam.

A recent report revealed 479 million was stolen from 150,000 people in UK largely through the use of number spoofing scams and that number spoofing scams had almost doubled

While posing as her bank, they directed Ope to check the number to reassure her the call was genuine.

By doing this, Ope was convinced she was speaking to her bank and they then tricked her into handing over sensitive personal information which was used to steal money from her account. The money was fortunately refunded by her bank.

UK Finance, the banking industry body, has said it is working with Ofcom to crack down on number spoofing scams.

This includes the launch of Ofcom's 'do not originate' list which was set up to compile numbers which will never be used to make outgoing calls.

The list protects numbers from some of the most spoofed organisations, such as HMRC and banks.

It applies to numbers that no outbound calls are ever made from, information which is then picked up by the phone network who identify the call as one which should be blocked.

Ofcom has said this work has led to significant successes in preventing criminals from spoofing the phone numbers of trusted organisations.

For example, when HMRC added numbers to this list they reported reducing 'to zero the number of phone scams spoofing genuine inbound HMRC numbers'.
Planned caesareans pose no bigger threat than vaginal deliveries for either mother or baby, according to a study.

NHS doctors tend to only carry out the major procedure if it is considered the safest option because it carries several risks.

But Canadian researchers have now challenged the claims, finding that it may even be better for mothers-to-be and their babies.

Ottawa University scientists leafed through the records of 422,000 births, including 2,000 where expectant mothers chose to have a C section.

They counted how many were admitted to intensive care and compared death rates between the two groups.

Results showed women who chose to have a C section faced no greater risk, and hinted the mothers-to-be and their infants may even be better off.

Around 700,000 babies are born in the UK each year, with a quarter from C-sections. The procedure makes up a similar proportion of births in the US.

Women who have a caesarean section and their babies are no more likely to suffer poor outcomes compared to those who opt for vaginal delivery (stock)

WHAT IS CDMR? Some expectant mothers request a caesarean before they give birth. Doctors call this a caesarean delivery on maternal request, or CDMR. The benefits of a vaginal delivery are well-established, including no need to recover from surgery, reduced risk of scars and an improved microbiome for the baby. But some women still request the procedure because of concerns over giving birth, perceptions care will be better, or fears over urination or sexual issues. The NHS says a C section can be carried out for non-medical reasons once the risks have been explained by a doctor or midwife. 'If after discussing all the risks and hearing about all the support on offer you still feel that a vaginal birth is not an acceptable option, you should be offered a planned caesarean,' they write online. 'If your doctor is unwilling to perform the operation, they should refer you to a doctor who will.' There are around 700,000 births in the UK each year, of which more than 100,000 are C-sections. In the US there are 3.75million annually, including 1.25million C-sections. It is not clear how many C-sections are at a mothers request. Advertisement

NHS guidance argues the common procedure is 'very safe' but comes with standard surgery risks, such as blood clots and infections.

C-sections are normally carried out because of medical reasons including babies in the wrong position, or the mother suffers pre-eclampsia.

For this reason, it is hard to compare different birthing methods because the women are already at higher risk.

Scores of women, who are often dubbed 'too push to push', choose to go under the knife for non-medical reasons.

Experts say mothers-to-be may opt for C-sections because of perceptions they will receive better care, improving outcomes for both them and their baby.

This is despite the benefits of vaginal delivery being well known, including no need to recover from surgery and an improved microbiome for the baby.

Researchers led by Dr Yanfang Guo, who is also part of the Ottawa Hospital Research Group, checked over official birthing records in Ontario, Canada, for the seven years to 2018.

The team marked down how many were vaginal births and 'caesarean delivery on maternal request' (CDMR).

Among mothers-to-be, they checked for how many suffered tears to the rectum or uterus, unanticipated operative procedures or required blood transfusions.

And among their babies they checked for adverse events such as trauma, death, and heart rate problems.

There were 18,336 (4.4 per cent) adverse events among pregnant women who opted for vaginal delivery, compared to 37 (2 per cent) in those who had C-sections.

For babies delivered by vagina there were 17,899 (4.3 per cent) adverse events, while in the C section group there were 34 (1.9 per cent).

Results suggested women who had a C section were 50 per cent less likely to suffer poor outcomes.

But academics cautioned more research was needed because this figure was based on a very small sample size.

They also found those who opted for vaginal delivery tended to be older and richer, contrary to characterisation of women that opt for a CDMR.

'This analysis shows that planned CDMR is safe for low-risk pregnancies and may be associated with a lower risk of adverse delivery outcomes compared with vaginal deliveries,' scientists said.

'Although our study addresses concerns relating to the immediate implications of planned CDMR, exploration of longer-term risks is needed, including its impact on breastfeeding and the child's risk for infection and respiratory illness.'

They added: 'Women may prefer CDMR for many reasons, including scheduling convenience, anxiety regarding labour pain, perceptions that the quality of obstetrical care is better for women who have c-sections, and concerns about possible urinary incontinence and sexual dysfunction after vaginal delivery.'

The study was published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal.
Cyber specialists acting on behalf of the Iranian regime are peddling disinformation online in a bid to boost support for Scottish independence and weaken the UK, a new report has claimed.

A study by the Henry Jackson Society think tank found Iranian agents were creating fake accounts and pages on Twitter and Facebook.

Posing as locals, the accounts and pages then targeted Scottish voters and encouraged them to share pro-independence material among their contacts ahead of crunch Holyrood elections on Thursday this week.

The report, seen by The Times, concluded that the activity undertaken by the Iranian regime was an attempt to 'attack the constitutional integrity of the United Kingdom'.

Nicola Sturgeon is hoping to secure an SNP majority victory on May 6 as she tries to bolster her demands for a second Scottish independence referendum.

A study by the Henry Jackson Society think tank found Iranian agents were creating fake accounts and pages on Twitter and Facebook. Stock image.

Nicola Sturgeon is hoping to secure an SNP majority victory at Holyrood elections on May 6 as she tries to bolster her demands for a second Scottish independence referendum

The Henry Jackson Society report concluded: 'Iran has shown itself to be a country which engages in Russian-style disinformation campaigns, repeatedly establishing fake websites and internet accounts in an effort to disrupt the political systems of liberal democracies.

'Judged within this context, Iran is almost certainly looking to disrupt our current elections, most likely those under way for the Scottish assembly.'

The report examined Iran's wider attempts to influence foreign elections and found much of its activity was directed at its close neighbours like Israel and Iraq.

But the report is also said to have found increasing activity in Scotland over the last 12 months.

The report said that the activity was conducted at arms length from the Iranian government to allow Tehran's leaders to deny responsibility.

It argued the aim of the activity was to 'cause harm to adversaries with clear military superiority, and at the same time, maintain a margin of denial that will prevent international censure or even sanctions and a counterattack'.

The report's findings came after a Panelbase survey for The Sunday Times suggested Mrs Sturgeon is on course for victory on Thursday but that whether she wins a majority could be tight.

The poll, conducted between April 28 and April 30 suggested the SNP could gain two seats on their 2016 tally, giving them an outright majority of just one.

Sir John Curtice, professor of politics at Strathclyde University, said the polling numbers suggested the SNP could end up with 65 seats, the Tories down three with 28, Labour down six with 18, the Lib Dems up one with six, the Greens up three with nine and the Alba Party with three.

Winning a majority is viewed as crucial to Mrs Sturgeon's hopes of holding a re-run of the 2014 independence vote.

Boris Johnson has repeatedly ruled out granting permission for another border poll but the SNP leader believes a crushing victory for her party would pile the pressure on the Prime Minister to change his mind.
China has deleted a Communist Party social media post mocking India's unfolding Covid-19 crisis, it is understood.

The since-removed post showed an image of a recent rocket launch in China next to what looked to be workers at a mass cremation in India, alongside the words: 'China lighting a fire versus India lighting a fire.'

The inflammatory post by China's Central Political and Legal Affairs Commission sparked online criticism.

The inflammatory post by China's Central Political and Legal Affairs Commission, pictured above, sparked online criticism

An image of the Tianhe Core Module which was launched into space by China on April 29 were juxtaposed with a photo of what appeared to be workers at a mass outdoor cremation in India.

According to a report in Bloomberg, the image was posted on the commission's official Weibo account on Saturday.

It was posted with a hashtag noting that new Covid-19 cases in India had surpassed 400,000 a day.

It was removed later in the day, with many social media users in China shocked at the post's insensitivity.

In response to a request for comment by Bloomberg, China's foreign ministry said: 'We hope everyone gives attention to the Chinese government and mainstream public opinion supporting India's fight against the epidemic.'

The Weibo post came a day after Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a message of condolence to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the country's Covid-19 tragedy.

Relatives cremate the body of a person who died due to Covid in Giddenahalli village on the outskirts of Bengaluru, India . India reported more than 300,000 new coronavirus infections for a 12th straight day on Monday

India is now reporting a seven-day average of more than 350,000 Covid cases (left), while the average number of deaths over the last week has risen to nearly 3,500 - which most believe is an under-estimate (right)

Mr Xi on Friday said China was willing to provide any additional assistance to India as it battles with a second wave of the virus.

India reported more than 300,000 new coronavirus infections for a 12th straight day on Monday to take its overall number of cases to just shy of 20 million, as scientists predicted a peak in the pandemic in the coming days.

With 368,147 new cases over the past 24 hours, India's total infections stand at 19.93 million, while total fatalities rose by 3,417 to 218,959, according to health ministry data.

Medical experts say actual numbers across the country of 1.35 billion may be five to 10 times higher than the official tally.
Prince William's fellow RAF Sea King airman has received a payout from the Ministry of Defence after his rare cancer was linked to toxic fumes from the helicopter.

Flight Sergeant Zach Stubbings, 42, from Cardiff, spent his 15-year RAF career inhaling the fumes from the now-retired aircraft's powerful twin engines.

The MoD have been forced to admit that the fumes caused Flight Sergeant Stubbings' bone marrow cancer, multiple myeloma, following a six-year legal battle.

Prince William also piloted the aircraft - which was first flown in 1969 - for three years while serving in the Royal Air Force Search and Rescue Force at RAF Valley, Anglesey. The two men are not believed to have flown together.

The Duke of Cambridge carried out 156 search and rescue operations - saving 149 people - during his time there before leaving in 2013.

The last new Sea King was produced in 1995. The fleet was fully retired from the RAF by 2018.

The fume dangers highlighted by Flight Sergeant Stubbings' legal bid will no doubt cause concern within the Royal Family.

RAF Sea King has also been linked to asbestos poisoning, after thousands of military engineers were feared to have inhaled the potentially fatal chemicals.

Flight Sergeant Zach Stubbings, 42, (right) from Cardiff, spent his 15-years RAF career inhaling the fumes from the now-retired aircraft's powerful twin engines

Prince William also piloted the aircraft (pictured at the controls of Sea King) for three years while serving in the Royal Air Force Search and Rescue Force at RAF Valley, Anglesey

The helicopter (pictured) was retired from the RAF in 2018 the the last new Sea King produced in 1995

Sea King helicopters linked to issues with fatal asbestos Thousands of military engineers were feared to have inhaled potentially fatal asbestos chemicals while working on Britain's Sea King helicopters. In 2018, defence chiefs confirmed they issued an alert in a desperate effort to warn Royal Navy and RAF personnel who maintained the Sea King since it entered service in 1969. In an unprecedented move, the Ministry of Defence also contacted foreign governments that bought the helicopter and civilian contractors flying ex-British military Sea Kings. Serving personnel or veterans with health problems caused by exposure to asbestos on Sea Kings were able to sue the MoD for hundreds of thousands of pounds. Advertisement

Flight Sergeant Stubbings uncovered documents from 1999 revealing that the MoD were warned of potential issues caused by Sea King fumes by experts.

But nothing was done to rectify the issue, The Sun reports.

Flight Sergeant Stubbings told the paper: 'The Government chose to ignore it. It's a scandal.'

An MoD spokesperson said: 'The health and safety of our personnel is of the utmost importance and we are committed to providing a safe working environment.

'Three studies undertaken by the RAF Centre of Aviation Medicine into Sea King found there were no definitive conclusions in terms of risk to health.

'RAF Sea King reached the end of service in 2016.'

In 2018, thousands of military engineers were feared to have inhaled fatal asbestos chemicals while working on Britains Sea King helicopters.

Defence chiefs confirmed they had issued an alert in a desperate effort to warn Royal Navy and RAF personnel who maintained the Sea King since it entered service in 1969.

In an unprecedented move, the Ministry of Defence also contacted foreign governments that bought the helicopter and civilian contractors flying ex-British military Sea Kings.

Serving personnel or veterans with health problems caused by exposure to asbestos on Sea Kings were able to sue the MoD for hundreds of thousands of pounds.

The MoD have been forced to admit that the fumes caused Flight Sergeant Stubbings' (pictured) bone marrow cancer, multiple myeloma, following a six-year legal battle

The fume dangers highlighted by Flight Sergeant Stubbings' legal bid will no doubt cause concern within the Royal Family (Prince William posing in front of a Sea King helicopter). RAF Sea King has also been linked to asbestos poisoning, after thousands of military engineers were feared to have inhaled the potentially fatal chemicals

Sea King crews are 'frequently subjected' to engine exhaust fumes, study finds Sea King rescue helicopter crews are frequently subjected to engine exhaust fumes, a 2018 study found. Scientists investigated how much carbon monoxide (CO) pilots are exposed to - and whether they exhibit symptoms. The research - carried out by University of California Professor Michael Busch - found that exposure to engine fumes is common but symptoms are rare and mild. The study looked at 37 crew members' CO levels over a two-week period. It found 64 per cent were exposed to engine exhaust fumes during training - but symptoms were seen in just 8.6 per cent. Some 29 per cent had CO levels outside the normal range after their flight - with the highest recording standing at 7 per cent. The normal range is less than 4 per cent. Advertisement

A 2018 study found that Sea King rescue helicopter crews are frequently subjected to engine exhaust fumes.

Scientists investigated how much carbon monoxide (CO) pilots are exposed to - and whether they exhibit symptoms.

The research - carried out by University of California Professor Michael Busch - found that exposure to engine fumes is common, especially when crews are working near the open cargo doors.

But symptoms are rare and mild.

The study looked at 37 crew members' CO levels over a two-week period. It found 64 per cent were exposed to engine exhaust fumes during training - but symptoms were seen in just 8.6 per cent.

These included exhaustion, headaches and nausea.

Some 29 per cent had CO levels outside the normal range after their flight - with the highest recording standing at 7 per cent.

The normal range is less than 4 per cent.

The study concluded: 'Exposure to engine fumes is common, even more so during open cargo door operations.

'However, clinical symptoms are infrequent and mild.

'Toxic SpCO levels were not reached in this study, but approximately one third of post-flight SpCO levels were outside the normal range.'
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Britons were forced indoors today as 50mph winds and torrential rain swept across the country on the first three-day weekend since Covid rules were relaxed.

Scores of defiant drinkers and diners were left clutching their umbrellas as the storm force winds and showers made their way across the country earlier today, with pub owners closing their outdoor marquees and gazebos as the weather continued to deteriorate.

In Manchester city centre, diners braved the elements under their umbrellas as the rain washed over the city while others sported waterproof coats as they enjoyed a funfair in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire.

Meanwhile, in Sidmouth, east Devon, there was little alfresco wining and dining as scattered blustery showers swept across the region and sent temperatures plummeting to 10C.

Even planes have been struggling to land in the gale-force winds on what forecasters predicted would be a miserable end to the bank holiday weekend.

Footage shows the moment a KLM flight from Amsterdam turns almost sideways as it attempts to keep in line with the tarmac through crosswinds at Bristol Airport earlier today.

Elsewhere, along the River Cam in Cambridge, a group of people sat under blankets as they braved the cold weather on Bank Holiday Monday.

The scenes came as Met Office forecasters issued a yellow weather warning for wind in the south of England that will remain in place until 9am tomorrow.

As hundreds across the country braved the wet and windy conditions, one lady at a caravan park in Sidcup said: 'You wrap up for the weather, you deal with it - it's just nice to get away.'

Another holidaymaker in Sidmouth was braced against the elements but said: 'This is the first time we have been away since last March.'

Britain's first bank holiday Monday since lockdown rules eased is the coldest ever with temperatures plummeting to -5.9C in Scotland.

A man leans into the gale force winds on the beach at the seaside resort of West Bay in Dorset

Swimmers brave the chilly sea at Langland Bay, Swansea on a wet and windy Bank Holiday Monday

Diners make the most of the Bank Holiday despite the weather in Manchester city centre today

Hardy drinkers brave the elements under umbrellas at the Canal House, Birmingham

Punters sitting and queuing to dine in the rain at Altincham Market in Greater Manchester

The wet bank holiday hasn't stopped families enjoying themselves at an open air funfair in Huddersfield, Yorkshire

Diners make the most of the Bank Holiday despite the weather in Manchester city centre today

People under blankets as they brave the cold weather on Bank Holiday Monday as they go for a punt on the River Cam in Cambridge

People sit down for lunch outside with hoods up on a wet and windy Bank Holiday Monday in Porthcawl, Wales

Diners make the most of the Bank Holiday despite the weather in Manchester city centre today

People are spotted huddling under umbrellas outside a McDonald's in Manchester today

Shoppers brave the wet Bank Holiday Monday in Glasgow's Buchanan Street today

People clung to their umbrellas while doing a spot of high street shopping on Buchanan Street in Glasgow today

Two punters were spotted wrapped up in rain coats under an awning during the rain in Glasgow

Two women were seen huddling together under an umbrella while punting down the River Cam in Cambridge

People holding umbrellas walk along High Street in Worcester as wet and windy weather covers much of the region

People shelter under umbrellas whilst punting along the River Cam in Cambridge

A man holds onto his umbrella in Worcester as wet and windy weather covers much of the region

People were spotted sheltering under umbrellas and one man even enjoyed a drink while punting along the River Cam in Cambridge

Diners make the most of the Bank Holiday despite the weather in Manchester city centre today

Pub-goers refused to let the wet weather dampen their spirits as they sad under awnings in Manchester city centre

Customers brave the cold and wear blankets over their heads to dine al fresco in Chelsea

Punters were spotted using blankets to protect themselves from the elements in Chelsea

Diners were seen in rain ponchos huddled under umbrellas as they sat outside in Cardiff city centre

Pub goers were spotted in hoodies and raincoats while eating outside in Cardiff city centre today

The mercury dropped below freezing to -5.9C in Kinbrace in the Scottish Highlands this morning, making today exactly as cold as it was in 2012 - the coldest May bank holiday on record. According to the Met Office temperatures at this time of year should range between 13C and 16C.

Snowfall, heavy rain and 50mph gales are expected to hit later today with road, rail and ferry journeys potentially all being affected.

But brave swimmers were seen throwing caution to the wind as they donned woolly hats and gloves while taking a dip in the sea at Langland Bay, Swansea. And cheery punters were seen on boats under blankets on the River Cam in Cambridge while trying to make the most of the final day of the May bank holiday.

It ends a miserable bank holiday weekend for many, with revellers forced to brave downpours on Saturday and Sunday as they flooded back to pub beer gardens to make the most of the easing of Covid restrictions.

Yesterday a group of hardy pub goers were spotted an outdoor pint in the pouring rain outside The Cranberry Farm pub, in Exeter, Devon, while others were seen holding blankets over their heads while sitting outside at a bar in Wallingford, Oxfordshire.

Plummeting temperatures also saw a freak hail storm hit the Isle of Wight, leaving left fields looking more like a winter wonderland.

Met Office forecaster Marco Petagna said today: 'There's quite a deep area of low pressure coming in from the West on Monday. It's pretty windy with some gales in exposed areas in the West's coast and hills.

'Obviously with lockdown restrictions coming down now there could be more people out and about so the impact could be higher than normal but certainly a very wet and windy day moving in from the West on Monday.'

Diners battle through the rain as they sit outside to enjoy a meal in Manchester today

People are spotted with raincoats and umbrellas making the most of Bank Holiday Monday in Manchester

People watch on as the water breaks against the seafront in Porthcawl, Wales, on Bank Holiday Monday

A family was spotted having a coffee in very cold but sunny bank holiday in Montaque Place in West Sussex

Diners were seen in raincoats outside a restaurant in Worthing, West Sussex this morning

One brave swimmer was spotted taking a dip in the sea in Bournemouth this morning during the chilly temperatures

Punters wrapped up warm at restaurants along the beach in Bournemouth

Diners were seen in raincoats and jumpers to keep the chill off them while eating outside today in Bournemouth

One swimmer was spotted in just a swimming costume as she braved the chilly temperatures of the Bournemouth sea

Pictured: Sunrise by the Ribblehead viaduct in Cumbria on Bank Holiday Monday before the forecast rain arrives

A group of hardy pub goers enjoy an outdoor pint in the pouring rain outside The Cranberry Farm pub, in Exeter, Devon

Rain will set in over Northern Ireland and spread across the entirety of the UK by this afternoon. The Met Office has predicted the rain will become heavier throughout the day and some snow will be seen on Scottish mountains.

Coastal gales are forecast for the south and western areas of the country but the rain should start to clear by the evening.

And the mercury isn't set to rise any time soon as tomorrow is set to be an unsettled and chilly day with a fair amount of cloud and showers or longer spells of rain.

The rest of the week will stay much the same with wintry showers and rain across the country and widespread overnight frosts.

Temperatures will remain low for this time of year with lows of -4C, lower than the temperature in Russia, and forecasts of torrential rain and storms to start today.

Freezing temperatures forced winemakers to burn huge paraffin candles by their vineyards to stop grapes from icing over.

Freezing temperatures over the Bank Holiday weekend have forced winemakers to burn huge paraffin candles by their vineyards to stop grapes from icing over

Vitaculturists at The Grange Hampshire vineyard lit their candles, known as bougies, in the early hours of yesterday morning during a period of frost

An extraordinary freak hail storm hit the Isle of Wight and covered the fields and streets in Newchurch turning the landscape into a winter wonderland

Vitaculturists at The Grange Hampshire vineyard lit their candles, known as bougies, in the early hours of yesterday morning during a period of frost.

A team of 10 local lighters were given an emergency alert at 2am in the morning and it took them about an hour and a half to light the 450 candles.

Once the sun comes up and the temperature reaches above freezing a different team will come and extinguish the candles.

And hail battered the Isle of Wight on Saturday leaving the Newchurch area looking like it was in the depths of winter and covered in snow.

Jamie Russell, of the Isle of Wight Met Service, said: 'It was amazing. I couldn't believe it. I was on the southern side of a big rapeseed field near Shanklin when I noticed something slightly unusual happening in the general direction of Newchurch and headed over there.'

Jamie Russell, of the Isle of Wight Met Service, said: 'It was amazing. I couldn't believe it. I was on the southern side of a big rapeseed field near Shanklin when I noticed something slightly unusual happening in the general direction of Newchurch and headed over there'

Families and visitors wearing waterproof jackets and carrying umbrellas brave the rain and flock to the at the seaside resort of Lyme Regis in Dorset

Visitors to Lyme Regis hold umbrellas as they flock to the beach

Pictured: A freak hailstorm has left the Newchurch area of the Isle of Wight looking like it is in the depths of winter

Hail froze to the roads and grass, looking like snow was covering the Isle of Wight this weekend

And across the rest of the country punters were forced to huddle under blankets and coats while dining with friends and family outside amid the torrential rain yesterday.

In Wallingford, Oxfordshire, diners braved the conditions despite the rain lashing their umbrellas during a very wet al fresco lunch.

Zam Baring, CEO, The Grange Hampshire Wine said: 'Frosty nights are all about horrible judgement calls. How cold is it going to be getting two or three hours' time? How much damage will be done to the buds if we don't light the candles?

'And, if we do light the candles tonight, will we have enough left for what is coming down the line tomorrow night, the night after or even next week? It is undeniably a beautiful sight, but it's a terrible sight too!

'There were very bad frosts last year in 2020 during the second week of May and, despite working hard to counteract the cold, The Grange Hampshire suffered a more than 60 per cent reduction in yield over the previous year. We use around 1,500 candles each year.'

Punters huddled under blankets and coats in the wet weather with diners still forced to remain outside due to Covid restrictions

The weather proved no obstacle to some who sat outside Britain's pubs and restaurants on Saturday amid the pouring rain

Diners in the Oxfordshire town of Wallingford brave the pouring rain for the chance to be together and to eat outdoors on Saturday

The cold temperatures follow the coldest April on record with the lowest average minimum temperatures for April in the UK since 1922.

The yellow weather warnings will see some delays to road, rail air and ferry transport. The Met Office has said that some bus and train services will probably be affected.

And damage to outdoor temporary structures is possible with some tree branches down too.

It's likely that some coastal routes, sea fronts and coastal communities will be affected by spray and/or large waves.
A teenage killer who murdered a classmate at their suburban Miami middle school 17 years ago has died in prison.

Michael Hernandez, 31, died on Thursday, according to the Florida Department of Corrections, which did not give a cause of death.

WFOR-TV reported that Hernandez died from a drug overdose, citing unnamed sources.

It said he was seen on video collapsing and that no foul play is suspected in his death.

He had been incarcerated at Columbia Correctional Institute, about 50 miles (80 kilometers) west of Jacksonville.

Hernandez was serving a life sentence for the February 2004 murder of Jaime Gough when they were both 14-year-old students at Southwood Middle School in Palmetto Bay, just outside Miami.

Michael Hernandez (left) was serving a life sentence for the February 2004 murder of Jaime Gough (right) when they were both 14 years old

Hernandez had lured Jaime into a handicapped bathroom stall before school with a promise to show him something.

He then pulled out a knife, stabbed him more than 40 times and slit his throat.

Hernandez then hid the knife in a secret compartment in his backpack and went to class.

After Gough's body was found, a teacher noticed blood on Hernandez and notified police.

Gough was killed at Southwood Middle School in Palmetto Bay, just outside Miami, Florida

Hernandez had lured Jaime into a handicapped bathroom stall before school with a promise to show him something. He then pulled out a knife, stabbed him more than 40 times and slit his throat

It was later discovered that Hernandez had become fascinated with serial killers and spent time researching their violent exploits online.

He made a list of people he wanted to kill, including Gough.

In 2008, he was found guilty of first-degree murder after a jury rejected his insanity plea.

Jorge Gough, Jaime's father, told the Miami Herald that he was 'shocked' to learn of Hernandez's death.

After Gough's death, it was discovered that Hernandez was fascinated with serial killers and spent time researching their violent exploits online. Pictured: Hernandez in court in 2004

Hernandez had been incarcerated at Columbia Correctional Institute, about 50 miles (80 kilometers) west of Jacksonville

'I was not expecting this at all,' Gough said. He said he and his wife still talk about their son, who would now be 32, but 'not in a sad way'.

His son was a straight-A student who played the violin.

'We miss him, and the big question is: What would he be today?' he said.

Maria Gough told NBC 6 South Florida that she could not stop crying when she heard of her son's killer's death and that she hoped he felt regret.

Hernandez had planned to kill two classmates, but Andre Martin got suspicious when Hernandez attempted to lure him and Gough into the stall.

Pictured: Emergency services attend the scene of Gough's murder at the middle school in 2004

The bell rang and the three boys went to class. The next day, Hernandez killed Gough.

Martin is now a Miami-Dade County police detective. He told the Herald that he had mixed feelings about Hernandez's death.

'My continued condolences for Jaime Gough's parents, and the entire Gough family,' Martin said.

'And the Hernandez family - they were not the ones who committed a crime and they did lose a family member.'

The Florida Department of Corrections said that an investigation will be launched into Hernandez's death, The Miami Herald reported.
Private universities fare disproportionately better than their traditional, four-year counterparts when it comes to generating economic mobility and there are any many success stories. Monroe College in the Bronx placed 100% of its graduating nurses in jobs in 2017  almost all of them minority women. In Scotts district, ECPI University enrolls nearly 12,000 students, is ranked as a top, veteran-friendly college in America, and has the distinction of being ranked in the top 10% of schools for online programs. Sadly, Democrats such as Scott routinely ignore the positive outcomes generated by hundreds of private colleges because they dont fit the partys political template.
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A stunning 60-year-old 2,000 sq ft English barge has gone on sale for 875,000.

The roomy four-bed and two-bathroom boat is permanently moored in Wapping, East London and has breath-taking views of Tower Bridge.

Named 'Rock' and built in 1961 from from the British steel of a former wheat cargo, it is one of the few surviving and fully operational Medway Coasters left in the UK.

With an overall length of 92ft and width of 21ft, the barge is described as a 'spacious and comfortable home' in a unique position close to the heart of the City of London.

Rock was built in 1961 and is one of the last surviving and fully operational Medway Coasters. It is described as a "piece of British maritime history' by it's current artist owner

Rock is permanently moored in Wapping, East London and has impressive views of Tower Bridge. Apartments in the area with the same amount of space can go for as much as 2million

A beautiful solid wooden wheelhouse on board 'Rock' is somewhat of a time capsule and gives impressive views across the City of London

The floating home boasts a wheelhouse, an upper studio office with wood burner and a large saloon with open plan galley and dining area for eight.

One of the cabins has an en-suite toilet and washbasin, and all rooms throughout the vessel have standing headroom.

The large flat, open front deck area can accommodate guests for al-fresco dining as they enjoy the impressive views.

Current owner of the barge Anne Lydia Wainwright describes the boat as a 'piece of British maritime history'.

A study area with an old-style wood burner and more circular windows on board the vessel is a British maritime history buff's dream

There is plenty of storage space on board the spacious boat, which is 60 years old and large enough for a family of eight or four couples

One of the bedrooms on board the barge, which can sleep up to eight people. The boat was refurbished in 2003 with fittings to stabilise it

She said: 'When you buy a boat like Rock, you're taking on a piece of British maritime history, a very different kind of lifestyle and possibly one of the best and most iconic views of London from the River Thames.'

She bought the vessel in 2002 with her late husband Chris Wainwright, with whom she founded Hermitage Moorings - a cooperatively run and managed secure mooring for 19 live aboard vessels, all of them with an historic background.

The aim of Hermitage is to keep traditional river craft such as sailing barges, tugs and motor craft a part of the Wapping river landscape for the future.

In 2003, Rock was taken to marine construction site MSO in Brentford for a full refit, with the bottom of the vessel re-plated.

Nautical window frames can be seen throughout the 2,000 sq ft vessel as seen in this cabin. One of the bedrooms is an en-suite

There is plenty of entertaining and relaxing space on board Rock, with a spacious open-plan kitchen and living room area where guests can peek out onto the river

The kitchen, recently decorated in an elegant and neutral grey, opens out onto the spacious living room. Ceiling windows give the boat plenty of natural light

It also had a one metre steel skirt added above the waterline as well as bilge keels to give the boat greater stability in water.

All portholes and roof-lights were replaced and a new steel roof was put on the lower saloon.

The mooring fee for the boat is 511 a month and it is currently on sale with the Unique Property Company at 875,000.

One of the two bathrooms on board the four cabin barge has space for bathtub. Another bathroom is on en-suite of one of the four bedrooms

The original-style dining area can be enjoyed by all eight boat inhabitants and has breathtaking views of the river and of Tower Bridge

Another view of the living and dining room area shows the boat has standing headroom throughout. There is plenty of space for books and other belongings

Estate agent Simon Stone, Founder of Unique Property Company said: 'Rock is up there as one of the most expensive barges for sale but it is worth it.

'It has a huge historical importance to it. The current owner is an artist and it has a very exclusive mooring.

'Apartments surrounding the boat with the same square footage would be around 2million, so it is a great buy for someone who wants to live in the area but doesn't have penthouse money.'
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Thousands of students turned up at a park for an annual drinking event - with some seen urinating up trees and others vomiting.

The booze-fuelled 'Caesarian Sunday' event shouldn't have happened on Jesus Green in Cambridge because of Covid restrictions - but crowds gathered anyway.

Witnesses said there was chaos as students lit barbecues, ignored social distancing rules and drank until they were sick.

The event is at least eight decades old and usually takes place on the Sunday of the first May bank Holiday weekend.

In the past, the gathering has been criticised for causing havoc, with masses of litter left lying around and people becoming ill from the amount they have drunk.

Pictures taken on Sunday show thousands of students stood and sat in groups on the green, with men urinating into waterways and up against trees while the grass was strewn with plastic bottles and beer cans.

Cambridge University students descended on Jesus green in Cambridge for Caesarian Sunday

This eight-decade old tradition which sees students party for the last time before exams begin

Event went ahead despite Covid-19 restrictions which ban outdoor gatherings of more than six

Witnesses estimated that up to 3,000 students gathered on the green this Bank Holiday

Several police officers can be seen talking to people in the crowds, but one witness said not enough had been done to move people on.

Current restrictions ban outdoor meet-ups of more than six people or two households.

One witness said the event was 'like a rave' with loud music blaring out and drunken people dancing.

Another said: 'Police were doing absolutely nothing to move people on. It was a joke.

'There were lots of men and women urinating by the trees on the path in front of passing public.

'Young women were vomiting from too much drink. I spoke to two police officers who said as you can imagine we can't exactly get involved.

Cambridge University students drinking on Jesus Green as part of Caesarean Sunday

Event has been criticised historically due to amount of litter left over and antisocial behaviour

People letting their hair down at the Caesarean Sunday in on Jesus Green in Cambridge

Council bosses have threatened to cancel the event in the past due to problems it causes

What is Cambridge University's Caesarian Sunday event? Often described as the birth of the summer drinking parties, it historically takes place at a park in Cambridges city centre, on the first bank holiday of the summer term. It is said to have started when a member of the Green Giants stole a bottle of Pimms from a Caesarian. The bottle was then thrown at the Caesarian in a challenge to fight. It then became tradition, every year, for the president of Girtons drinking society to down a bottle of Pimms and invites the Jesus drinking society to fight. However, reports suggest the fighting element was banned several years ago but the event remains seen as an opportunity for students to get drunk before knuckling down to focus on revision and exams in the final term. Advertisement

'At the peak maybe 3,000 people there and there were no masks and no social distancing.'

The event - which often attracts undergraduates in fancy dress - has previously been criticised due to the antisocial behaviour associated with it.

Named after the university's Caesarean drinking society, the event used to see the Caesareans descending on Jesus Green to have a brawl with the Girton Green Monsters - one of Cambridge University's most notorious drinking societies.

The brawl was officially banned several years ago but the event lives on and it is still seen by Cambridge University students as a final opportunity to get drunk and spend time with friends before they have to focus on revision and exams during the final term.

Caesarean Sunday is seen as the birth of the drinking parties for the summer term, which ends with the notorious after-exams party, Suicide Sunday, in June.

Most colleges are known to issue warnings to their students one way or another.

Some colleges, such as John's, have been known to ban their students from going altogether.

Also known as C-Sunday, the event has hit headlines in recent years for the students' antics.

In 2016, a student dressed up as a sheep suffered severe burns after his fancy dress costume was set on fire, reportedly as part of a drinking society 'initiation'.

He threw himself into the river to extinguish the flames before an air ambulance rushed him to hospital.

City council leader Lewis Herbert has since threatened to ban the event, which is seen by some students as a final blowout before the summer exam season.

Attending in 2017, he said: 'From being there Sunday afternoon, it is clear that the spirit was good this year and the vast majority of the large crowd of partying students were behaving sensibly.

Event was named after Jesus College's Caesarean drinking society who would brawl with the Girton Green Monsters society

Students often don fancy dress to attend the event which has taken place in Cambridge for the best part of eight decades

While the event used to see students fight each other in the name of tradition, this was banned about seven years ago

Cambridge University students descended on Jesus Green in Cambridge for Caesarian Sunday yesterday afternoon

Students enjoy a drink on Jesus Green in Cambridge as part of the annual Caesarian Sunday party to mark the start of summer

'Students should be able to regulate their behaviour as a group, assisted by Cambridge University and colleges reinforcing expectations, and the local police team there just in case.

'While welcoming that most antisocial behaviour seems to have been avoided, there is still a significant clean-up cost every year and revellers need to better consider other users of Jesus Green.

'We also want to thank in advance our cleansing teams who will now follow up to ensure that Jesus Green is spick and span and recovers as soon as possible.'
German police have taken down one of the world's largest child porn sites with over 400,000 members and arrested four people accused of running it.

The site, known as BOYSTOWN and accessible only via the so-called Darkweb, had existed since July 2019 and was used for the worldwide exchange of child porn.

Investigators spent months probing the site and those behind it, before arresting three main suspects along with a fourth man in raids last month.

German police have taken down a child porn site with over 400,00 members and arrested four men in connection with running it (file image)

Officers say the main suspects are a 40-year-old from Paderborn, a 49-year-old from Munich and a 58-year-old from northern Germany who had been living in Paraguay for many years - all of whom are accused of operating the site.

The fourth man, a 64-year-old from Hamburg, is accused of uploading more than 3,500 images and videos to the site since becoming a member in 2019 - making him one of the most prolific contributors.

Police said the site was designed to allow the international exchange of child abuse material by its members, mainly focusing on the abuse of young boys.

'Among the images and video recordings shared were also recordings of the most severe sexual abuse of young children,' prosecutors said.

Members were also able to speak with one-another via chat areas of the website and voice channels.

Officers say the three main suspects also provided members with instructions on anonymous surfing to minimize the risk of detection.

The site was detected by a task for set up in Germany, but aided by investigators in the Netherlands, Sweden, Australia, the United States and Canada.

Following the raids and arrests, the BOYSTOWN platform has been taken down, police added.
British identity is on the wane in Northern Ireland, according to a new poll published as the country marks its centenary.

Younger people increasingly view themselves as Northern Irish while older people are more likely to consider themselves to be British.

The poll, conducted by Kantar for The Belfast Telegraph, found that 51 per cent of people over the age of 65 say they are British.

But among 18-24 year-olds that number drops to just 17 per cent, with 43 per cent of that age group considering themselves to be Northern Irish.

The poll findings came as Boris Johnson vowed to 'showcase all the brilliant things Northern Ireland contributes to the rest of the UK' on the date which many consider to be its centenary.

Boris Johnson today marked Northern Ireland's 'very significant' centenary as a poll suggested the British identity is on the wane in Northern Ireland

The Prime Minister said the Government will 'continue to showcase all the brilliant things Northern Ireland contributes to the rest of the UK'

The overall findings of the survey suggested people in Northern Ireland are broadly split into three groups of roughly the same size when it comes to how they view their nationality.

One third of respondents reportedly said they consider themselves to be Northern Irish while one third said British and 28 per cent said Irish.

The poll was published on the day that marks Northern Ireland's centenary.

Mr Johnson acknowledged there are 'differing perspectives' on the occasion as he said in a statement on Twitter: 'This is a very significant national anniversary, marking the 100th year since the Government of Ireland Act came into effect and the formation of the United Kingdom as we know it today.

'Throughout 2021, in its centenary year, the Government will continue to showcase all the brilliant things Northern Ireland contributes to the rest of the UK and the world, from its world-class fintech industry and research capabilities, to its inspiring young people, and its vibrant culture of arts and sport.

'It is also important that we pause to reflect on the complex history of the last 100 years. People from all parts of Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, the United Kingdom and across the globe, will approach this anniversary in different ways, with differing perspectives.

The poll, conducted by Kantar for The Belfast Telegraph, found that 51 per cent of people over the age of 65 say they are British but among 18-24 year-olds that number drops to just 17 per cent. The centre of Belfast is pictured on May 1

'While this is a moment of shared reflection, it is also an important opportunity to come together to celebrate Northern Ireland and build towards a better and even brighter future for all its people.'

Northern Ireland was created on May 3 1921 when the Government of Ireland Act came into effect and partitioned the island of Ireland into two separate entities.

But the exact date of when Northern Ireland was created has divided opinion.

The effect of the Government of Ireland Act split the 32 counties of Ireland into two, leaving Antrim, Armagh, Derry, Down, Fermanagh and Tyrone to form Northern Ireland.
A Seattle chocolate shop employee was fired after she refused to serve two police officers last week.

The employee left after Chocolati cafe owner Christian Wong decided 'it was in the best interests of both parties to part ways with the team member'.

She had refused to serve the officer, who was accompanied by a trainee, at the shop on N. 45th Street, telling the pair 'No, I won't serve you.'

The employee, who was described as a 'white female with green streaks in her hair', initially ignored the police pair who had entered the shop around 4:30pm on Tuesday, before refusing to sell them a box of chocolates.

An employee at Seattle's Chocolati cafe (pictured) was fired after she refused to serve two police officers last week

The Chocolati employee refused to serve the officer and trainee (not pictured) at the shop on N. 45th Street (file photo)

President of the Seattle Police Officers' Guild Mike Solan said the pair 'were met with a bit of hostility.

'But, based upon the amount of pushback that company has received from the public and across the nation is that people are still really supportive of the police, he told Fox News.

Chocolati initially defended the woman's right to free speech in a statement posted to Facebook on Wednesday, the day after the incident.

It said: 'We have recently become aware of an incident that occurred with a team member and an officer of the Seattle Police Department who was refused service. Although we do respect this team member's freedom of speech, the actions in this instance do not represent our views as a company.

'We are actively working directly with this team member and the local precinct to create a more inviting, inclusive and cohesive community for all.'

Chocolati has at least five shops in Seattle, Washington state, and sells boxes of chocolates and hot drinks

Chocolati patrons can pick and chose chocolates to go into boxes of up to 24 pieces

However, two days later a new statement from Wong stated the female employee had 'parted ways' with the company over the incident.

The statement read: 'Our team members cannot decide which customers to serve based on their own personal political beliefs. This simply is not an acceptable practice at our business...

'We also continue to communicate with our employees about our values and how we serve our customers to ensure an incident like this does not happen again. We will do better', he added.

On Friday, a second statement from Chocolati owner Wong stated the female employee had 'parted ways' with the company over the incident

Chocolati has faced a backlash after two members of the police, an officer and a trainee, entered one of the stores and were refused service

Solan said he was willing to meet with the employee and discuss the incident. He said: 'I'm hopeful that this employee can get informed... I commend the company's ownership for taking it seriously.'

The news was broken by Seattle news outlet the Post Millennial, which said attempts to contact the chain for comment were rebuffed.

'Is this how you want to spend your time? Getting essential workers in trouble? Shouldn't you be spending your time harassing homeless people?', the reporter was told.

The publication also said it had received a report of a similar incident at another Chocolati cafe on E. Green Lake Dr. N. after publishing the article.


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Almost 60 per cent of Britain would now be on the original 'green list' permitting travellers to return from abroad without facing burdensome self-isolation requirements, official Covid figures revealed today.

Department of Health statistics showed 218 of 380 councils had a coronavirus infection rate below 20 cases per 100,000 in the week to April 27, the latest available.

Last summer ministers slapped arduous 14-day quarantine requirements on travellers arriving from countries with infection rates above that level. The self-isolation period for all foreign travel has now been shortened to ten days but holidays abroad are still banned until at least May 17.

Figures also showed nine in ten local authorities saw their outbreaks shrink in April. Only Selby in North Yorkshire now has an infection rate above 100 per 100,000. For comparison, there were 23 authorities above that level at the end of March.

Experts said all figures were looking 'very optimistic', suggesting Britain was 'over the worst' of the pandemic and would never again see the spiralling Covid deaths and hospitalisations as in the darkest days of January because of the mammoth vaccination roll-out. More than 50million jabs have now been dished out.

Boris Johnson's ultra-cautious roadmap out of lockdown is set to kick-start foreign travel for people in England on May 17, with quarantine measures dumped for 'green' countries with both low infection rates and high vaccination levels.

But the list is expected to be small - and include few European destinations - amid fears from some ministers that travel could spark a third wave and import dangerous variants.

Covid infection rates across the UK in the week to April 27, the latest available. Department of Health statistics showed nine in ten councils saw their cases fall throughout April. The highest infection rate was in Selby, North Yorkshire

HOLIDAYS ABROAD 'SHOULD BE DISCOURAGED' UNTIL AUGUST, MPS WARN Holidays abroad 'should be discouraged' until August because of the threat of a third wave, MPs say. The All-Party Parliamentary Group on Coronavirus, a cross-party group of MPs, said the travel ban should continue and only be reviewed every three months. Their report states: 'The UK Government should discourage all international leisure travel to prevent the importation of new variants into the UK, in order to reduce the risk of a third wave and further lockdowns. 'This recommendation should be implemented immediately and reviewed on a quarterly basis.' Boris Johnson's ultra-cautious roadmap out of lockdown is set to re-start foreign holidays on May 17, when curbs on travelling abroad will be lifted. But ministers will be setting out a traffic light system for journeys, which will determine whether holidaymakers will have to quarantine on their return to the UK. Few countries are expected to make the 'green' list, with just Portugal in Europe, which would mean travellers would not have to quarantine. Many are likely to be made 'orange', requiring travellers to isolate for 10 days upon return. Advertisement

Department of Health infection rates are calculated based on the number of people that have tested positive in an area over the past seven days, divided by that area's population. It then gives a figure per 100,000 people to make everywhere comparable.

There are almost a million Covid tests being carried out daily according to the Government's statistics but only a few thousand are currently picking up the virus because prevalence is so low.

Latest figures show that the majority of local councils now have an infection rate below 20 per 100,000, and three in Scotland - Midlothian, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar and the Shetland Islands - have recorded no Covid cases in the past seven days.

Denbighshire, in north Wales, had the lowest Covid infection rate at 1 per 100,000, a 97 per cent drop from the 41.8 recorded at the end of March.

Monmouthshire, also in Wales, had the second lowest rate at 3.2 per 100,000, followed by the Scottish borders at 3.5 per 100,000.

On the other hand, Selby had the highest infection rate in the country at 102.6 per 100,000, which was up by 32 per cent compared to the end of March.

But experts say this should not be a cause for concern because high levels of vaccination should keep the disease at bay, and that it is inevitable cases will rise as measures are eased. They added it was good news that there hasn't been a spike yet during April's relaxation.

Selby was followed by Hyndburn, Lancashire (98.7 per 100,000), North Lincolnshire (78.4 per 100,00) and Mid Ulster (69.3 per 100,000).

Professor Paul Hunter, an infectious diseases expert at the University of East Anglia, told MailOnline: 'All the headline stats are looking very optimistic at present: case numbers, results of the ONS infection survey, hospitalisation and deaths.

'I do believe we are over the worst in that I think we will not see as much pressure on hospitals or as many deaths in future as we have seen in the past few months.'

However, he added: 'But I think we are still a long way from being able to say it is over.

'Most modellers are predicting a further wave this year even with high vaccination rates and that doesn't account for what the new variants may do.

'Nevertheless, because of the vaccine we should see fewer severe cases in relation to the number of cases and also because of higher immunity the restrictions needed to control the epidemic shouldn't need to be as tough.'

Ministers threw countries on the quarantine list with little warning last summer, leaving some Britons emptying their pockets in a desperate attempt to get home to beat the deadline.

Paul Charles, a travel consultant close to Government talks, said at the time the bans were based on cases hitting more than 20 per 100,000.

'While some other criteria are measured and monitored by Professor Chris Whitty and his team, and cabinet ministers including Transport Secretary Grant Shapps and Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab, such as health infrastructure in a country and the track record of the medical authorities on the ground, it is the case number per 100,000 that matters now,' he wrote in a column for Travel Weekly.

'Anything above 20 per 100,000 for a period of seven days or more is likely to lead to that country being added to the quarantine list.'

Holidays are set to resume on May 17, with ministers preparing to unveil a 'traffic-light' system showing which countries will require quarantine measures when holidaymakers return.

The Government is set to unveil the list as early as next week - as millions of Britons are left in limbo on whether to book trips abroad.

Senior ministers are battling over the size of the 'green' list, with Health Secretary Matt Hancock and chief medical officer Chris Whitty among those pushing to keep green-rated states to an absolute minimum.

But other cabinet ministers are reportedly urging a looser approach, insisting the outbreak is under control in the UK and that high vaccination rates should keep the Government on the right track to relaxing more curbs.

The Government will calculate which countries to place on the lists based on Covid infection rates, vaccinations, and the growth or slump in infections among other factors.

They are set to separate islands and countries, which could make holidays to areas like the Azores and Tenerife more likely.

Portugal is expected to be one of the few places that is put on the green list, alongside Gibraltar, Malta, and Israel.
Clive Porter, 63, died at the scene of severe head injuries. His family described him as a 'much loved husband, dad and grandad'

A homeless man has appeared in court charged with the murder of a 63-year-old retired police officer.

Daniel Wisniewski, 34, is accused of battering Clive Porter to death last Monday along the Grand Union Canal near Broughton, Bucks at around 12:20pm.

Wisniewski appeared at High Wycombe Magistrates Court this morning and is of no fixed abode.

Mr Porter died at the scene after suffering severe head injuries and could not be revived by paramedics.

The heart-broken family of Mr Porter from Tring, Herts and a canal worker for the Canal and River Trust, described him as a 'much loved husband, dad and grandad'.

In a statement put out by police, the family said: 'Clive Porter was a much loved husband, dad and grandad.

'He was a quiet calm and caring person, who served the community as a police officer for over 30 years before joining the Canal and River Trust. He was loved and respected by all who met him.

'Clive had a passion for working outdoors and meeting people. He believed in caring for people and the environment through the principle of policing by the people for the people.

Mr Porter died last Monday along the Grand Union Canal. Daniel Wisniewski, 34 has appeared in court this morning

'The family would like to thank the hard working investigation team at Thames Valley Police and also the family liaisons Detective constable James Armitage and Detective constable Lynda Stearman for their hard work and support.

'The family have also been overwhelmed by all the support and messages of condolence they have received from friends, family and the wider community.

A 41-year-old woman from Birmingham was also arrested at the scene on suspicion of perverting the course of justice and assisting an offender.

However, she was released on bail to return to Aylesbury Police Station on May 24.

A spokesman for Thames Valley Police said: 'Daniel Wisniewski, aged 34 years, of no fixed abode, has been charged with murder.

Forensic evidence was gathered at the scene. A 41-year old-woman from Birmingham has also been arrested and released on bail until May 24th

'It is in connection with the death of Clive Porter, aged 63, on Monday at the Grand Union Canal near Broughton.'

Mr Porter served as a police officer with Hertfordshire Constabulary for 30 years before his retirement.

Wisniewski was detained in hospital and treated for head injuries before being charged and police said they are not searching for anyone else in connection with the murder.
A bottle shop had some unusual Aussie customers as three kangaroos hopped on through a Bottlemart drive-thru.

The kangaroos visited the Sussex Inlet Bottlemart on New South Wales' south coast after dark, presumably looking for something to quench their thirst after a hard day.

The Aussie icons appeared to be very comfortable in the human environment as they casually hopped their way through the bottle shop.

The kangaroos causally hopped on through the Bottlemart drive-thru in Sussex Inlet, NSW

The public took to the comments as they speculated what the furry customers would have ordered.

'G'day mate, grab us some of that extra hoppy IPA and chuck it in me pouch, cheers big ears,' one commented.

'Well have a couple of Caroonas thanks,' wrote a third.

'They were trying to return their craft beer. Apparently it wasn't hoppy enough,' one wrote.

One user questioned whether the kangaroos were even eligible to be served alcohol.

The public happily speculated over what the Aussie icons would be ordering from their local bottle'o

'Hope you checked their IDs some of them looked like Joeys,' queried one.

Others were more concerned about what they might have already drunk and how they'd carry more.

'Better hurry up n serve 'em mate theyre obviously on the rum and likely to get punchy,' they wrote.

'Can they fit a six pack in their pouch?'
The Philippines foreign minister has warned Beijing to 'get the f*** out' of a disputed area of the South China Sea amid an escalating war of words between the countries.

Teddy Locsin Jr sent the expletive message on Monday as the Philippines foreign ministry complained that Chinese coast guard vessels have been harassing their own ships near a disputed island in the sea.

'China, my friend, how politely can I put it? Let me see... GET THE FUCK OUT,' Locsin said in a tweet from his personal account.

'What are you doing to our friendship? You. Not us. We're trying. You. You're like an ugly oaf forcing your attentions on a handsome guy who wants to be a friend; not to father a Chinese province...', Locsin said.

Teddy Locsin Jr, the foreign minister of the Philippines, has told China to 'GET THE F*** OUT' of the South China Sea in an angry tweet

Locsin sent the message amid reports that Chinese coast guard had been harassing Filipino vessels near a dispute island called Scarborough Shoal

Asked about his use of language, Locsin said later that 'usual suave diplomatic speak gets nothing done.'

His department has lodged dozens of protests in recent weeks prompted by what it calls repeated and illegal incursions by Chinese vessels into Philippine waters.

The latest row was sparked by confrontations between rival coast guards around the Scarborough Shoal - an uninhabited island claimed by both nations.

In the latest incident, the Department of Foreign Affairs said it 'has protested the shadowing, blocking, dangerous maneuver and radio challenges by the Chinese coast guard of Philippine coast guard vessels conducting legitimate maritime patrols and training exercises' from April 24 to 25 near Scarborough Shoal.

The island is surrounded by rich fishing waters which were effectively seized by China in 2012 after a standoff between Chinese and Philippine fishing boats.

The department said it also protested 'the incessant, illegal, prolonged and increasing presence of Chinese fishing vessels and maritime militia vessels in Philippine maritime zones' in the disputed waters.

It said hundreds of Chinese vessels have been spotted by Philippine law enforcement agencies from January to March this year in areas around Scarborough Shoal and Philippine-occupied Thitu Island, which Filipinos call Pagasa.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry has asked the Philippines to respect what it calls Chinese sovereignty in the disputed waters and 'stop actions complicating the situation and escalating disputes.'

China claims virtually all of the South China Sea, a vast area of ocean bordered by Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, Indonesia, the Philippines and China, through which $3 trillion of ship-borne trade passes each year.

China and the Philippines both claim the Scarborough Shoal and the rich fishing waters which surround it (pictured, fishing vessels of both countries in a standoff in 2017)

In 2016, an arbitration tribunal in The Hague ruled China's, which Beijing bases on its old maps, was inconsistent with international law.

The escalating feud between Manila and Beijing started after more than 200 Chinese vessels suspected by Philippine authorities to be operated by militias were spotted in early March at Whitsun Reef.

The Philippine government demanded the vessels leave, then deployed coast guard vessels to the area.

China said it owns the reef and the Chinese vessels were sheltering from rough seas.

Many of the Chinese vessels have left Whitsun, about 175 nautical miles (325 kilometers) west of the Philippine province of Palawan, but several have remained moored in the area, part of a shallow atoll partly occupied by China and Vietnam.

The Philippine government says the reef is within an internationally recognized offshore zone where Manila has exclusive rights to exploit fisheries, oil, gas and other resources.

On Sunday, the Philippines vowed to continue maritime exercises in its EEZ in the South China Sea in response to a China demand that it stop actions it said could escalate disputes.

As of April 26, the Philippines had filed 78 diplomatic protests to China since President Rodrigo Duterte took office in 2016, foreign ministry data shows.

'Our statements are stronger because of the more brazen nature of the activities, the number, frequency and proximity of intrusions,' Marie Yvette Banzon-Abalos, executive director for strategic communications at the foreign ministry, said.

Duterte for the most part has pursued warmer ties with China in exchange for Beijing's promises of billions of dollars in investment, aid and loans.

While the Philippine leader still considers China 'a good friend', he said last week: 'There are things that are not really subject to a compromise.'
Line Of Duty star Martin Compston is at the centre of a Twitter storm today after encouraging Scots to back Nicola Sturgeon in the election.

The Scottish actor, who stars as Steve Arnott in the hit BBC drama, made the plea in an online rally, which aired shortly before last night's Line Of Duty finale.

He urged Scots not to leave the outcome of Thursday's election to chance, calling on them to back the SNP in the ballot.

But he became embroiled in a spat with Tory MPs and voters who accused the Greenock-born star of 'hypocrisy' because he now lives in Las Vegas with his American wife.

Scottish Conservative MSP Murdo Fraser tweeted: 'Another 'celeb' who doesn't live here telling us how to vote.'

Compston clapped back, sharing a picture of a Tory campaign flyer sent to his home in Greenock, and hitting back at critics who accused him of being a 'hypocrite' and 'telling them how to vote.'

The actor relocated Stateside in 2019 with his American wife, actress Tianna Flynn, their baby boy, and their dog King, where they snapped up a sprawling four-bed home in Nevada - which boasts a spa, and a solar-heated swimming pool.

But the 36-year-old said he pays 'top rate tax in Scotland and always has,' adding: 'I see Scottish tory twitter and their bots enraged an actor would express an opinion.

'Apparently it isn't valid either as they claim I don't live here. In that case could you do me, the postman and the environment a favour and stop sending me literature asking for my vote.'

Compston was joined by other high-profile SNP supporters, including actors Alan Cumming and Brian Cox, crime writer Val McDermid and Mogwai musician Stuart Braithwaite.

Compston clapped back, sharing a picture of a Tory campaign flyer sent to his home in Greenock, adding: 'I see Scottish tory twitter and their bots enraged an actor would express an opinion'

The star became embroiled in a spat with Tory MPs and voters who accused the Greenock-born star of 'hypocrisy' because he now lives in Las Vegas with his American wife. Pictured, the actor at his home in the US

The actor urged Scots not to leave the outcome of Thursday's election to chance, calling on them to back Nicola Sturgeon in the election

Today he hit back at critics who accused him of being a 'hypocrite' and telling them how to vote

Billion-pound plan to save the union Billions more pounds will be spent on Scotland by the UK Government in an attempt to further dampen support for independence. A blueprint to save the union will see huge investment in road and rail links with England and patients waiting for treatment could be seen in NHS hospitals south of the border. The plans are set to be revealed soon after Thursday's Scottish Parliament elections to see off demands for a fresh independence referendum. But polls published at the weekend suggest the SNP is unlikely to win a large majority, denting its mandate for a referendum. One by BMG suggested the SNP would take 68 seats with Alex Salmond's Alba Party getting two and the Greens nine  a total of 79 pro-independence MSPs out of 129. Panelbase for the Sunday Times indicated the SNP may get 65 seats  a majority of one  with the Tories on 28 and Labour on 18. Advertisement

With the next Scottish Parliament election taking place in just a few days, the actor told voters: 'Scotland's future is in your hands. Don't leave it to chance.

'The only way to make sure we re-elect Nicola Sturgeon as First Minister is to make it #BothVotesSNP.

'Make sure you and all your pals get out to vote.'

The star also told the Scottish Conservatives to 'do him, the postman and the environment a favour by not sending leaflets to his address.'

Compston, who lives in Las Vegas but also owns a home in Greenock, shared an image of the flyer showing his name and part of his Scots address.

The flyer was signed by Scottish Conservative Party leaders Ruth Davidson and Douglas Ross, urging Compston to vote for them.

Compston bought a flat in Greenock earlier this year so he could be closer to his parents.

But he spends much of his time in America, where he says, 'you get more for your money.'

With the election taking place during the coronavirus pandemic, Compston told the online rally: 'I think even people who don't like Nicola Sturgeon, for whatever reason, have had to admit that she has been by far the most competent leader on these islands dealing with this crisis.

'And she's the one I think is best placed to take us forward getting out of it.

'So, I do really think that we are in a situation now where we need the best people, the most competent people, in charge of Scotland.

'To make sure that we come out of this a better place than we went in.'

Compston, who lives in the US with his American wife, continued: 'Everyone is allowed an opinion.

'Whether that be politicians down south or some lovely incredible entertainers who have moved abroad for whatever reason.

'Myself, I've lived across the world. That's the beauty of free speech. Everyone is allowed an opinion. But what matters is votes.'

The actor relocated Stateside in 2019 with his American wife, actress Tianna Flynn, their baby boy, and their dog King, where they snapped up this sprawling four-bed home in Nevada

The Scottish actor stars as Steve Arnott in the hit BBC drama Line of Duty (pictured with co star Vicky McClure)

SNP MP Mhairi Black, who interviewed the actor for the online event, said the May 6 election was 'the most important in Scotland's history' as she stressed 'every vote will count'.

Ms Black said: 'Only by casting both votes for the SNP can we guarantee Nicola Sturgeon is re-elected as First Minister to keep Scotland safe through Covid, build a strong, fair and green recovery, and put Scotland's future in Scotland's hands.

'I want to thank Martin and all of the actors, writers, musicians and cultural figures who have given their support to the SNP at this crucial election.

'The last year has changed our world. This year we have the opportunity to build a better and fairer future for Scotland by voting SNP.'

Every poll has the SNP returning as the largest party in Holyrood after Thursday, but the parliamentary arithmetic may still have it running a minority administration, as was the case in the last term.

But Ms Sturgeon has been pushing for a majority in this election, which would not only strengthen her government's hand on domestic issues at Holyrood, but also bolster the case for another independence referendum, which she and other SNP politicians have repeatedly asserted would only take place after the pandemic has passed.
Now plans for a $3.7 billion deal to dramatically increase train and bus service across the state have become a reality. Earlier this year, Virginia sealed an agreement with Amtrak and two other rail companies, CSX and Virginia Railway Express, with an eye to building a top-notch commuter, passenger and freight rail system within the state and connecting the state to other major metropolitan areas along the East Coast.
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Tory alarm bells were set ringing tonight after another poll showed support sliding ahead of 'Super Thursday' elections - despite a Boris Johnson dismissing the wallpapergate row as 'trivia'.

Research by Redfield & Wilton Strategies was the latest to show a sharp fall for the Conservatives, with their lead over Labour slashed from 10 points last week to just two.

The findings will fuel fears that the grim tide of stories about lobbying, cronyism and Mr Johnson's lavish refurbishment of his grace-and-favour flat are starting to take their toll.

The PM chatted with voters and posed for selfies in Hartlepool today, where the Conservatives are hoping to pull off a massive coup by seizing the constituency from Labour.

Victory would underline the destruction of the 'Red Wall' that secured Mr Johnson's huge majority in 2019, although Tory insiders have been desperately trying to play down expectations.

Speaking to reporters on a visit that confirmed the party is still hoping for a shock win, Mr Johnson pointed out that the seat had voted 'overwhelmingly' for Brexit - insisting that the UK's stunning vaccine rollout and the introduction of freeports was only possible because he completed the split from Brussels.

But he also had to field a grilling over the controversial Downing Street makeover, insisting he thought voters will be more focused on policies than 'trivia'.

The narrowing polls are a glimmer of light for Keir Starmer, who has been repeatedly attacking 'Tory sleaze'.

Sir Keir insisted he will take 'full responsibility' for the results of the critical battles on Thursday.

Alongside the Hartlepool seat and 5,000 councillors, key mayoral posts in the West Midlands, Tees Valley, and London are also up for grabs on Thursday.

The contest for Holyrood in Scotland is set to decide whether Nicola Sturgeon mounts a push for a fresh independence referendum.

Boris Johnson wears a Welsh flag mask as he visits Barry during the Senedd election campaign, in Vale of Glamorgan

Research by Redfield & Wilton Strategies was the latest to show a sharp fall for the Conservatives, with their lead over Labour slashed from 10 points last week to just two

Boris Johnson wears a Welsh-flag mask and receives ice cream as he visits Marco's cafe in Barry Island during the Senedd election campaign

Boris Johnson poses for a selfie as he meets members of the public while campaigning on behalf of Conservative Party candidate Jill Mortimer in Hartlepool

Mr Johnson elbow-bumped with a wide variety of locals on the windswept seafront in Hartlepool today

Boris Johnson wears a Welsh flag mask as he touches elbows with a campaigner during a visit to Barry for the Senedd election campaign, in Vale of Glamorgan, Wales

Boris Johnson chatted with voters and posed for selfies in Hartlepool with just days left before the 'Super Thursday' elections - when the town will elect a new MP

The Conservatives have been hoping to pull off a massive coup by seizing the Hartlepool constituency from Labour

A bullish Boris Johnson hit the campaign trail in Hartlepool today amid fears the bitter 'wallpapergate' row is starting to hit Tory support

Voters in England, Scotland and Wales will go to the polls on Thursday for contests in the devolved parliaments, regional mayors and local councils, with Labour expecting a 'very difficult' night

Minister refuses to say PM should quit if he broke ministerial code A senior minister today refused to say that Boris Johnson will quit if he is found to have broken conduct rules over his lavish flat makeover - despite the Scottish Tory leader insisting he would have to go. James Cleverly dodged questions, suggesting that the ministerial code was merely there for the 'guidance of the PM' when he appoints his team. The comments came despite Douglas Ross, the most senior Tory north of the border, saying bluntly that 'of course' Mr Johnson should resign if he did not abide by the standards. Several probes are under way into the tangled financing of the costly refurbishment  including an investigation by Mr Johnson's new adviser on ministerial interests, Lord Geidt. Meanwhile, the PM is also facing allegations that Tory donors were approached to pay for his personal trainer and a nanny for his son Wilf. However, as head of the Government the premier is still the final arbiter on any breaches of the ministerial code. Advertisement

During a rainy visit to a seafront fish and chip restaurant in Hartlepool, the PM was asked if he was concerned whether the flat refurbishment row might affect voters.

Mr Johnson said: 'I have always believed that it was going to be a tough fight and I still believe that is the case.'

He pleaded with people to focus on the 'massive opportunities' the Tories had brought by delivering on Brexit.

Pressed on whether his visit to the seat might have a negative effect on the party's prospects, he said: 'I think that people will focus on the issues that matter to them.

'That is the vaccine rollout, the chances of our economy bouncing back really strongly in the second half of this year, what we are doing to make sure that happens.'

Pressed on the No11 flat refub, he said: 'All this kind of stuff is absolutely not relevant to this campaign.

'And what I think the people of this country want to know is, who has the policies, who is actually talking about the issues that matter to the people of this country.

'And we're focused on improving our NHS, on making our streets safer, and above all, in rolling out the vaccine campaign and going down the road map in a cautious but we hope irreversible way and delivering change.

'I know that people want to focus on trivia, but I'm focusing on the issues that matter.'

Mr Johnson spoke to diners at the Surfside Fish Bar and Restaurant who were braving the elements to eat or sip coffees outside as the rain started to fall at lunchtime.

The popular cafe is in Seaton Carew and overlooks the North Sea close to the spot where canoe man John Darwin faked his own death in 2002.

Campaigning with London mayor Sadiq Khan in the capital today, Sir Keir said he will 'take full responsibility whatever the outcome' on Thursday.

'I will take full responsibility for the results in the elections this week, I will take full responsibility for everything that the Labour Party does,' he told reporters

Boris Johnson discovers the ice cream machine at Marco's cafe in Barry Island during the Senedd election campaign, in Vale of Glamorgan, Wales

Boris Johnson gives a thumbs-up while wearing a Welsh-flag mask as he visits Barry during the Senedd election campaign, in Vale of Glamorgan, Wales

'We have had a fantastic team of candidates and people out there, members and supporters, having conversations on the doors.

'We've got a number of days to go but I will take full responsibility whatever the outcome.'

A senior minister today refused to say that Boris Johnson will quit if he is found to have broken conduct rules over his lavish flat makeover - despite the Scottish Tory leader insisting he would have to go.

James Cleverly dodged questions, suggesting that the ministerial code was merely there for the 'guidance of the PM' when he appoints his team.

The comments came despite Douglas Ross, the most senior Tory north of the border, saying bluntly that 'of course' Mr Johnson should resign if he did not abide by the standards.

Several probes are under way into the tangled financing of the costly refurbishment  including an investigation by Mr Johnson's new adviser on ministerial interests, Lord Geidt.

Meanwhile, the PM is also facing allegations that Tory donors were approached to pay for his personal trainer and a nanny for his son Wilf.

However, as head of the Government the premier is still the final arbiter on any breaches of the ministerial code.

In a round of broadcast interviews this morning, Mr Cleverly was repeatedly pressed on whether Mr Johnson should resign if he broke the ministerial code.

'The ministerial code is there for the guidance of the PM in appointing ministers,' he told Sky News.

'I don't know any more detail than the things the PM has already said.'

Pushed on whether a PM who breaks the code should go 'on principle', he said: 'It is pointless speculating about what actions might be taken... it is not as simple as you have set out.'

Speaking to Times Radio Mr Cleverly said: 'The investigations and reports that will come out into the public domain about this need to come out.

'I'm not going to speculate about what the content of those reports will be or how the Prime Minister responds to any of those reports.

'Speculating about the outcome or what comes next is not right.

'We'll let the reports do their thing and the Prime Minister will make the decisions based on any recommendations that those reports have in them.'

Mr Ross was asked on BBC1's The Andrew Marr Show yesterday if Mr Johnson should quit if found to be in breach of the code.

He replied: 'Of course, I think people expect the highest standards of those in the highest office of the land, that's why I think people are looking at the investigations that are currently ongoing and waiting for the answers.'

Mr Ross is the most senior Tory to question the funding arrangements, putting him at odds with No 10.

His comments are likely to infuriate Downing Street, which has sought to play down the row. Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab yesterday dismissed claims that a Tory donor was asked to pay for a nanny for Mr Johnson's one-year-old son Wilfred as 'tittle-tattle'.

Speaking to reporters, Mr Johnson pointed out that the seat had voted 'overwhelmingly' for Brexit - insisting that the UK's stunning vaccine rollout had only been possible because he completed the split from Brussels

Campaigning with London mayor Sadiq Khan in the capital today, Sir Keir said he will 'take full responsibility whatever the outcome' on Thursday

Nicola Sturgeon was also out on the campaign trail in Dumfries today, with Scottish elections set to be crucial for her separatist drive

James Cleverly (left) dodged questions, suggesting that the ministerial code was merely there for the 'guidance' of Boris Johnson when he appoints his team. But Scots Tory leader Douglas Ross (right) yesterday suggested the PM would be obliged to resign if he broke it

The PM (pictured with Carrie Symonds last year) has been struggling to quell the 'wallpapergate' row over his grace-and-favour residence

Billion-pound plan to save the union Billions more pounds will be spent on Scotland by the UK Government in an attempt to further dampen support for independence. A blueprint to save the union will see huge investment in road and rail links with England and patients waiting for treatment could be seen in NHS hospitals south of the border. The plans are set to be revealed soon after Thursday's Scottish Parliament elections to see off demands for a fresh independence referendum. But polls published at the weekend suggest the SNP is unlikely to win a large majority, denting its mandate for a referendum. One by BMG suggested the SNP would take 68 seats with Alex Salmond's Alba Party getting two and the Greens nine  a total of 79 pro-independence MSPs out of 129. Panelbase for the Sunday Times indicated the SNP may get 65 seats  a majority of one  with the Tories on 28 and Labour on 18. Advertisement

The Sunday Times reported that senior Conservatives said donors have been approached about funding other aspects of the PM and Carrie Symonds' lifestyle.

One donor is alleged to have said: 'I don't mind paying for leaflets but I resent being asked to pay to literally wipe the Prime Minister's baby's bottom.'

Mr Raab said he had 'no idea' if the claim was correct, adding: 'You don't have conversations like that with the PM.'

A No 10 spokesman said the Prime Minister 'has covered the cost of all childcare', but did not say whether he paid for the original bill himself.

The Foreign Secretary declined to deny a claim that a second invoice for the renovations may have been settled with the supplier by a Tory donor.

Mr Raab also sidestepped questions over whether Mr Johnson should resign if he is found to have broken the law by the Electoral Commission.

The Electoral Commission last week launched an investigation into whether any donations or loans were properly declared. It is also the subject of an internal review by the Cabinet Secretary Simon Case, and there have been calls for the Parliamentary Standards Commissioner Kathryn Stone to investigate.

Mr Johnson last week said he has now paid the 58,000 cost overrun and described the row as a 'farrago of nonsense'.

Shadow Foreign Secretary Lisa Nandy said yesterday: 'We need to know who the Prime Minister is beholden to, we need to know what he has promised in return.'

Mr Johnson's chaotic decision-making has led No 10 insiders to nickname him 'Trolley', according to the BBC.

One source said: 'You think you are pushing it along a path towards your goal then suddenly it veers off disastrously.'

Downing Street has declined to comment on the name.
Two Indiana high school students were killed in a car crash on their way to prom over the weekend.

Kalen Hart, 18, and her boyfriend Lendon Byram died after an SUV crashed into them in Arcadia, about 40 miles north of Indianapolis, on Saturday night.

The couple were on their way to Hart's senior prom at Hamilton Heights High School at the time.

Her boyfriend, who was driving at the time, was a junior at Cathedral High School in Indianapolis.

Two other students who were in the back seat of their Honda were hospitalized with injuries that weren't life-threatening.

Kalen Hart, 18, and her boyfriend Lendon Byram died after crashing into another vehicle in Arcadia, about 40 miles north of Indianapolis, on Saturday night. They are pictured above posing for photos before getting into the car

Police are still investigating the crash but said it didn't initially appear as if alcohol or drugs played a role in the wreck. Hart, Byram and two other students were in this Honda at the time

The driver of the other vehicle involved in the crash was also a high school student but they declined medical treatment. Authorities haven't released the name of the driver.

Both of the cars ended up in a field as a result of the crash.

Police are still investigating the crash but said it didn't initially appear as if alcohol or drugs played a role in the wreck.

Hart and Byram had been dating since the beginning of the year.

The couple had been visiting Hart's father and posed for photos together in their prom outfits before they headed to her mother's house.

The crash occurred on the way.

Her devastated mother, Jody Bartrom Conaway, wrote on Facebook that she didn't even get to see her daughter in her prom dress.

'My 18-year-old daughter, along with her boyfriend, were killed in an automobile accident on her way to prom,' she wrote on Facebook.

The driver of the other vehicle (above) involved in the crash was also a high school student but they declined medical treatment. Both cars ended up in a field following the crash

Her devastated mother, Jody Bartrom Conaway, wrote on Facebook that she didn't even get to see her daughter in her prom dress. The couple had been visiting Hart's father and posed for photos together in their prom outfits before they headed to her mother's house. The crash occurred on the way

Hart and Byram, pictured above together, had been dating since the beginning of the year

'I didn't even get to see my baby girl in her prom dress. I love you so much, Kalen Rae! I am so proud of the young woman you were becoming. Rest easy my baby girl.'

In an emotional interview with WTHR, Conaway said: 'There are so many people that loved her. While my heart is breaking, my heart hurts for them as well.

She described her daughter's boyfriend as 'sweet and respectful'.

'I really felt like he was one of the best things that ever happened to Kalen for a whilewe will miss him at our house. We will miss him,' Conaway said.

Superintendent Derek Arrowood issued a statement following the fatal crash saying that all prom-related activities would be canceled.

'We share our heartfelt condolences to the families of the students impacted by this tragedy,' Arrowood said.

'No one expects something like this to happen, and when it does, it leaves an entire community grieving. Please keep these families and our students in your thoughts and prayers.'

Multiple vigils were held for the two teenagers over the weekend and online fundraising sites set up to help cover the costs of the funerals have already raised more than $20,000.

In an emotional interview with WTHR , Conaway said: 'There are so many people that loved her. While my heart is breaking, my heart hurts for them as well'

The couple were on their way to Hart's senior prom at Hamilton Heights High School at the time. She is pictured above trying on her graduation gown

Multiple vigils were held for the two teenagers over the weekend
Joe Biden's administration will this week start reuniting migrant families that were separated under former President Donald Trump's zero-tolerance policies against illegal immigration.

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said in a call Sunday night that four families of the estimated 1,000 that remain separated will be reunited this week.

Two of the four include mothers  one Mexican and one Honduran  who were separated from their children in 2017, Mayorkas detailed without providing their identities.

He described the range of children from 3-years-old at the time of separation to 'teenagers who have had to live without their parent during their most formative years.'

The administration is trying to amend the crisis at the border where minor migrant facilities saw overcrowding by sometimes more than 2,000 per cent capacity.

Customs and Border Protection, DHS announced, had 677 unaccompanied children in custody over the weekend compared to the record 5,767 the agency had in its custody on March 28  an 88 per cent decrease.

'The Family Reunification Task Force has been working day and night, across the federal government and with counsel for the families and our foreign partners, to address the prior administration's cruel separation of children from their parents,' Mayorkas said in a statement announcing the family reunification.

'Today is just the beginning,' he added. 'We are reuniting the first group of families, many more will follow, and we recognize the importance of providing these families with the stability and resources they need to heal.

Over the weekend, a group of migrant children started arriving at the Pomona Fairplex fairgrounds in southern California, which the Biden administration has set up as temporary housing for unaccompanied minors who arrived at the U.S.-Mexico border.

Officials say these children, ranging in age from 7 to 14, will remain at the site until they can be reunited with family or placed with sponsors.

Joe Biden's administration will begin reuniting families this week who were separated when crossing the border under Donald Trump's 'zero tolerance' immigration policies. Here an immigrant mother carries her children into the U.S. after crossing illegally from Mexico

Four of the 1,000 families who remain separated will be reunited this week as Biden's Family Reunification Task Force charges forward with starting the process. Pictured: Migrant families overcrowded in a U.S. border facility in McAllen, Texas in June 2019

The Pomona Fairplex fairgrounds in Los Angeles opened its doors to temporarily house unaccompanied minors apprehended at the border

The Fairplex can house up to 2,500 minors

It is not immediately clear how DHS selected these four families to be reunited first and the agency has not yet responded to a request for more information from DailyMail.com.

The president promised during his campaign that he would reunite families separated after crossing the border and created a task force shortly after taking office dedicated to reunification.

Mayorkas, who heads the task force on reuniting separated families, told reporters Sunday: 'Our team is dedicated to finding every family and giving them an opportunity to reunite and heal.'

'We continue to work tirelessly to reunite many more children with their parents in the weeks and months ahead,' he said during the call. 'We have a lot of work still to do, but I am proud of the progress we have made and the reunifications that we have helped to achieve this week.'

The administration's Family Reunification Task Force Executive Director Michelle Brane said the parents will return to the U.S. on humanitarian parole as authorities consider longer-term legal status.

Under Trump's policies, families arriving at the border were separated into different facilities, upon which time most parents and adults were deported, while children were kept in federal custody.

Now, Biden will begin the process of allowing parents who were previously deported to return to the U.S. to be with their children.

Record numbers of illegal immigrants continue to cross into the U.S. as Biden promises no unaccompanied children will be turned away and said during his campaign he would accept all asylum-seekers. Here a smuggler paddles immigrants across the Rio Grande River on April 30

Starting in the summer of 2017, Trump implemented 'zero-tolerance' policies to easier criminally prosecute illegal immigrants, which led to more than 5,000 children being separated from their parents. The practices officially ended by court order in June 2018.

Brane believes there are still 1,000 families who are separated.

Despite the reunification process kicking off this week, the Biden administration is still facing its biggest issues at the southern border.

In recent months, Biden has seen record-numbers of illegal immigrants crossing as he vowed during his campaign all asylum-seekers would have a place in the U.S.

There are also tens of thousands of unaccompanied minor children in federal custody after public messaging from the White House promised not to turn away any children arriving at the border without an adult.

The new Pomona Fairplex migrant holding facility has a capacity to hold 2,500 children. The new measure comes after the Long Beach Convention Center in Los Angeles also opened its doors to house unaccompanied minors.

'These children as you know have endured abuse, persecution, deep poverty, and violence and they are simply seeking refuge,' LA County Board of Supervisors Chair Hilda L. Solis said Thursday, according to KTLA.

The Pomona and Long Beach centers are meant as a temporary means to house the hundreds of minor migrants apprehended every day at the southern border without an adult accompanying them.

Migrants from Northern Triangle countries continue to take dangerous measures to get into the U.S.

Four people were killed and more than two dozen others were hospitalized Sunday after a boat capsized and broke apart in rough water just off the San Diego coast during a suspected human smuggling operation, authorities said.

Smugglers continue dangerous tactics to get immigrants to the U.S. Four people were killed and nearly two dozen others were hospitalized after a boat capsized Sunday just off the San Diego coast

The image above shows debris washing ashore just off the coast of San Diego on Sunday

Video footage shot by horrified beachgoers shows the boat tipping over in the water before breaking apart as it was battered by the waves and rocks.

Lifeguards, the U.S. Coast Guard and other agencies responded around 10 a.m. following reports of an overturned vessel in the waves near the rugged peninsula of Point Loma, according to the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department.

The original call was for a handful of people overboard but as rescuers arrived in boats and jet skis they quickly realized 'it was going to be a bigger situation with more people,' said San Diego Lifeguard Services Lt. Rick Romero.

'There are people in the water, drowning, getting sucked out the rip current there,' he said. 'Once we arrived on scene, the boat had basically been broken apart. Conditions were pretty rough: 5 to 6 feet of surf, windy, cold.'
Police are extremely concerned about a missing second year university student who suddenly vanished on Saturday morning.

Detectives are appealing for information after Olisa Odukwe, 20, disappeared with his bike after leaving his home in Redland, Bristol.

Mr Odukwe, who is a second year mechanics student at the city's university, has now not been seen for over 48 hours.

A spokesman for Avon and Somerset Police said: 'We're extremely concerned for Olisa.

Olisa Odukwe, 20, disappeared with his bike after leaving his home in Redland, Bristol

'He was last seen wearing a grey YG hoodie with a picture of a black goat on the front, and either black shorts or black joggers. He may have a black racer style bike with him.'

Friends and fellow students shared messages and pictures in an effort to try and track him down or find someone who may have seen him.

Today Bristol University said it was helping officers with the hunt and providing any information it could to find the young man.

They said: We are working closely with the police in their search for one of our students, Olisa Odukwe, last seen leaving his home in Redland on Sat morning.

Mr Odukwe, a 2nd year mechanics student at Bristol university has been missing for 48 hours

'We ask the public & University community to be alert & contact the police if they think theyve seen him.

'We are supporting Olisas friends and family and would urge any other students who are concerned to contact our wellbeing services for support.'

Police say anyone who has any information should call 999 ref 5221094539.
A race row has erupted at Rutgers Law School after a white law student used the N-word while quoting a 1993 legal case.

The first year student - a woman who has not been named - used the slur in a class of three during Professor Vera Bergelson's virtual office hours last October.

In discussing a case she had repeated a quote from a defendant which was then used in an opinion written by former State Supreme Court judge, Alan B. Handler.

The student said: 'He said, um  and I'll use a racial word, but it's a quote. He says, "I'm going to go to Trenton and come back with my [N-word]s".'

One of her two other classmates at the New Jersey school, a white student, then contacted her to say she should have not used the word.

After one of those present shared their concerns with black classmate, a petition calling on the mature student and Professor Bergelson to apologize circulated.

The petition reads: 'At the height of a 'racial reckoning,' a responsible adult should know not to use a racial slur regardless of its use in a 1993 opinion. We vehemently condemn the use of the N-word by the student and the acquiescence of its usage.'

A faculty meeting Friday also discussed barring the word's use in class, The New York Times reports.

Others at the school, including former New Jersey attorney general John Farmer Jr and ex state public advocate Ronald K. Chen, have signed a statement in support of Bergelson and the student.

A race row has erupted at Rutgers Law School, pictured, after a white law student used the N-word while quoting a 1993 legal case during a class last October

Professor David Lopez said: 'I share the views of several of our faculty members who understand and express to their students that this language is hateful and can be triggering, even in the context of a case, and ask that it not be used.'

But Professor Gary L. Francione has called a ban 'problematic' and 'implicating matters of academic freedom and free speech'.

He said: 'Although we all deplore the use of racist epithets, the idea that a faculty member or law student cannot quote a published court decision that itself quotes a racial or other otherwise objectionable word as part of the record of the case is problematic and implicates matters of academic freedom and free speech.'

Professor Dennis M. Patterson added: 'I don't think the Law School should have rules that are stricter than the Constitution of the United States.'

Adam Scales, a black professor at Rutgers Law, said: 'There is something extremely antiseptic about the term 'N-word'. There is something that softens the impact.'

He has signed the statement of support of Bergelson.

Professor Bergelson, 59, has said she did not her the slur being used during the class last October.

She said she was only made aware of the concerns raised months after the incident when the petition was shared.

The student is said to have spoken with classmates at the time of the incident after they raised concerns.

The first year student - a woman who has not been named - had used the slur during Professor Vera Bergelson's, pictured, virtual office hours in October last year

One of the students in the class then alerted others to a recording of the session and Professor Lopez was told of student concerns.

After the petition surfaced last month Bergelson held a meeting, apologizing for the incident.

She told The New York Times: 'I wish I could go back in time to that office hour and confront it directly. I would never use the words in class.'

The student's attorney, Samantha Harris, said: 'When you're an attorney, you hear all kinds of horrible things. You represent people who have said horrible things, who have done horrible things.

'You can't guarantee a world free of offensive language.'

Co-Deans David Lopez and Kimberly Mutcherson told DailyMail.com in a statement: 'As the Co-Deans of Rutgers Law School, we recognize the hurt that our students experienced following this incident, and we know that none of the involved parties acted with any ill intent.

'We are committed to doing better for our community moving forward.

'This experience raised critical issues about law school pedagogy and provided us with a welcome opportunity to talk as a community of faculty, students, staff, and administration committed to antiracism about productive ways to teach about race in our classrooms.

'Those discussions are not about stifling academic freedom, ignoring the First Amendment, or banning words, and we are not seeking to alter any of the existing University policies that already protect academic freedom and free speech in the classroom.

'Instead, we are discussing how best to create classroom environments in which all of our students feel seen, heard, valued, and respected. We are confident that our faculty share that common goal as we work together to train the next generation of leaders for our state and our country.'

DailyMail.com has contacted Harris for comment.
The family of murdered US Army Specialist Vanessa Guillen is demanding military officials release the name of a supervisor who sexually harassed her before she was killed by another soldier last year.

An Army report released on Friday said that the sexual harassment by the superior was unrelated to Guillens murder and that the suspected killer, Specialist Aaron Robinson, 20, had also been accused of harassing another female service member.

Friday's report did not name the man accused of harassing Guillen, who is said to have asked her for a threesome, over 'privacy concerns' because of his low rank.

He was one of 21 people hit with disciplinary action over his behavior, but Army officials did not comment further on details of that punishment.

And while Guillen's family is relieved to have some justice, they still don't understand why the Army has refused to release the supervisor's name.

Guillen's sister Mayra Guillen told ABC News: 'The Army keeps trying to protect this name and I want to understand why. Why not just try to take a step forward, admit that you were wrong, fix it and make yourself look better so, the nation could trust you again.'

US Army Specialist Vanessa Guillen's sister Mayra Guillen (left) is demanding the Army release the name of the soldier who sexually harassed her sister. 'The Army keeps trying to protect this name and I want to understand why,' Mayra said

Mayra also tweeted about how the Fort Hood base did their own investigation and tried to allege that Guillen wasn't sexually harassed

Mayra also said that her family hopes to push the US government to address sexual harassment in the military.

'We're still looking to work very hard on this so we can put an end to it and not have what happened to Vanessa happen to anyone else ever again,' she said.

The Guillen family has also joined Congress members and other activists to fight for the passage of the I Am Vanessa Guillen Act.

The act is named after the hashtag that was used by military sexual assault survivors to denounce their experiences on social media when Guillen went missing in April 2020.

Reps Jackie Speier, a Democrat from California, and Markwayne Mullin, a Republican from Oklahoma, said the bill would make sexual harassment a crime within the Uniform Code of Military Justice.

Investigators believe Robinson bludgeoned Guillen to death with a hammer, removed her body from an armory at Fort Hood, and then dismembered her and buried her remains on April 22, 2020.

Guillens remains were found near the Leon River in Bell County, Texas on June 30.

According to the Army report released on Friday, Robinson was detained shortly after Guillens remains were found, but he was allowed to escape. A few hours later, he fatally shot himself as police were about to take him into custody.

Robinsons former girlfriend, Cecily Aguilar, has been charged with helping Robinson hide Guillens body and impeding the investigation.

The Army report details the final hours of Robinsons life.

At around 5pm on June 30, just hours after workers found Guillens remains in a shallow grave, a member of the Army Criminal Investigation Command called Robinsons unit and told them to put the specialist under strict observation.

Guillen, 20, (left) disappeared from the Texas, base in April 2020 and her dismembered and buried remains were found on June 30 near the Leon River. Officials said fellow soldier Aaron Robinson, 20, (right) was the main suspect in her killing

Robinson was told he was being detained for violating COVID-19 quarantine rules. He was then placed inside a conference room where an unarmed soldier was guarding the door.

While Robinson was upset he was being detained, he nonetheless appeared relaxed. He spent his time in detention playing video games, according to the report. Robinson was also allowed to keep his cell phone, which was being monitored by his superiors.

A few hours later, commanders got wind of new information suggesting that Robinson would try to escape, according to the report.

In a text chain, one officer said that if he tried to escape, the guards had to tackle his a** and call the MPs [military police]'.

But the soldier guarding Robinson did not get the message, according to the Army report.

Just after 10pm, Robinson received a telephone call that appeared to be from his mother.

Army Maj Gen Scott Efflandt, who was left in charge of the base when Guillen was killed, was fired following the review

Suspended: Maj Gen Jeffrey Broadwater (left) and Command Sgt Maj Thomas C. Kenny (right), both of the 1st Cavalry Division, were suspended following the review

Fired: Col. Ralph Overland (left), the 3rd Cavalry Regiment commander and Command Sgt. Maj. Bradley Knapp (right), both of whom were in charge of Guillen's unit, were fired

The base commander, Army Lt Gen Pat White (above), will not face any administrative action because he was deployed to Iraq for much of the year

Dont believe what you hear about me, a guard heard Robinson say.

Several minutes later, Robinson escaped. A few hours later, he was spotted by Army and civilian police in the city of Killeen, just outside of Fort Hood.

As officers were closing in to make an arrest, Robinson pulled out a gun and shot himself dead.

Major General Gene LeBoeuf said that Robinsons escape is still the subject of an ongoing investigation.

The report blamed a communication breakdown between the soldiers unit and the criminal investigation agents which allowed him to flee.

Guillens killing shocked the military and forced the high command to re-examine the extent to which a culture of sexual harassment had taken root throughout the armed forces.

14 Fort Hood officials suspended and fired The names of the battalion level and below commanders and leaders who received administrative action were not released. FIRED: Maj Gen Scott L. Efflandt, deputy commanding general III Corps, who was in charge of the base at the time of Guillen's death FIRED: Col Ralph Overland, the 3rd Cavalry Regiment commander, who was in charge of Guillen's unit FIRED: Command Sgt Maj Bradley Knapp, the 3rd Cavalry Regiment command sergeant major, who was in charge of Guillen's unit SUSPENDED: Maj Gen Jeffrey Broadwater, 1st Cavalry Division commanding general, pending the outcome of a new Army Regulation (AR) 15-6 investigation of 1st Cavalry Divisions command climate and Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention program SUSPENDED: Command Sgt Maj Thomas C. Kenny, 1st Cavalry Division command sergeant major, pending the outcome of a new Army Regulation (AR) 15-6 investigation of 1st Cavalry Divisions command climate and Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention program Advertisement

The latest findings were announced as part of an investigation into Guillens killing and the actions of officers immediately afterward.

Last year, a separate, civilian-run probe was launched examining the overall culture at Fort Hood.

As a result of the investigation, the Army fired or suspended 14 officers and enlisted soldiers at Fort Hood and ordered policy changes to address chronic failures of leadership that contributed to a widespread pattern of violence.

In a sweeping condemnation of Fort Hoods command hierarchy, Army Secretary Ryan McCarthy fired three top commanders and suspended two others pending a further investigation.

He also ordered a separate probe into staffing and procedures at the bases Criminal Investigation Command unit, which is responsible for investigating crimes on Fort Hood.

Army Maj Gen Scott Efflandt, who was left in charge of the base earlier this year when Guillen was killed, was fired from his post.

Army leaders had already delayed Efflandt's planned transfer to Fort Bliss, where he was supposed to take over leadership of the 1st Armored Division, due to the investigations into the base.

The base commander, Army Lt Gen Pat White, will not face any administrative action because he was deployed to Iraq as the commander there for much of the year.

The leadership of Guillens unit, Col Ralph Overland and Command Sgt Maj Bradley Knapp of the 3rd Cavalry Regiment were also fired.

Maj Gen Jeffrey Broadwater and Command Sgt Maj Thomas C. Kenny, 1st Cavalry Division commanding general and command sergeant major, were both suspended.

Their suspension is pending the outcome of a new Army Regulation (AR) 15-6 investigation of 1st Cavalry Divisions command climate and Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention program.

The names of the battalion level and below commanders and leaders who received administrative action were not released.

McCarthy said the panel published nine main findings and 70 recommendations that the Army is accepting to correct the command culture at the base.

The panel said they made an effort to talk to women in every division at the base, especially those in Guillen's unit.

The panel conducted 647 individual interviews on the base.

'Of the 503 women we interviewed [in the investigation], we discovered 93 credible accounts of sexual assault. Of those only 59 were reported,' Queta Rodriguez, a member of the independent review panel, said.

'And we also found 217 unreported accounts of sexual harassment. Of those only half were reported. What we discovered was over the course of those interviews, the lack of confidence in the system effected the reports of those incidents,' she added.

The independent review found that the Armys Sexual Harassment and Assault Response and Prevention Program (SHARP) failed to curb sexual assault and harassment on bases due to structural failures.

Panelists said there was a lack of training, resourcing and staffing at the SHARP office on Fort Hood.

It also found that the command climate failed to practice the programs core values below the brigade level, which led to less trust in the program.

The actions come after a year that saw at least 31 soldiers assigned to Fort Hood die due to suicide, homicide or accidents, including the bludgeoning death of Guillen.

The Army on Friday announced that it had taken disciplinary action against 21 soldiers and officers who failed to act. Those soldiers have not been identified.

It was devastating to all of us, Major General LeBoeuf told The New York Times.

We as an Army failed to protect Vanessa Guillen.

Of the 31 deaths at the base last year, while some were deemed accidents, five were homicides and 10 were suicides.

One of the most recent of tragedies to strike the base include the death of Sgt Elder Fernandes, 23, who was found dead hanging from a tree on August 19.

Also in August Pvt Corlton L. Chee, 25, collapsed during fitness training at the base and died two days later and in November Spc Cory Grafton, 20, was arrested after DNA testing linked him to the murder of a woman found dead in a hotel near the base last year.

Fort Hood's grim death toll: 31 soldiers have died in 2020 alone

Vanessa Guillen's high-profile death captured the attention of the nation and led to a reckoning within the Army in its handling of sexual harassment and assault.

Only after her death did the staggering number of deaths, disappearances, and issues at the Killeen, Texas base come to light.

In total, 31 soldiers have died.

February 1, 2020: PVT Eric Christopher Hogan and PFC Anthony Nevelle Peak Jr. die in a car crash

March 1, 2020: SPC Shelby Tyler Jones is shot dead at a convenience store in Killeen

March 5, 2020: Spc. Christopher Wayne Sawyer found dead at his home. Foul play is not suspected.

Fort Hood soldier, Pfc. Gregory Morales was reported missing from the base a year ago in August 2019. The 24-year-old's remains were found in June in a field in Killeen during the search for Guillen's remains

March 14, 2020: SPC Freddy Beningo Delacruz Jr. is killed in a triple murder

March 23, 2020: Fort Hood soldier Spc. Jovino Jamel Roy, 22, was charged with murder after allegedly shooting former Fort Hood soldier Michael Steven Wardrobe, 22

April 22, 2020: Vanessa Guillen goes missing and is last seen in the parking lot of the base. She disappeared after telling her family she was being sexually harassed by a sergeant on the base.

May 18, 2020: Body of Army Pfc. Brandon S. Rosecrans, 27, was discovered with gunshot wounds and his Jeep was found three miles away engulfed in flames.

June 19, 2020: Search teams discover the corpse of missing soldier Pvt. Gregory Wedel-Morales following a tip to Army base investigators. Remains were found in a field in Killeen, just over 10 miles from Stillhouse Hollow Lake, five miles from Fort Hood.

July 1, 2020: First parts of Giullen's remains found about 20 miles east of Fort Hood.

Spc. Aaron Robinson, 20, kills himself. Officials say he killed and dismembered Guillen and had the remains disposed of.

July 2, 2020: Army Specialist Miguel Yazzie, 33, died on July 2; Yazzie, of Window Rock, Arizona, was hospitalized for a medical condition the day before he died.

Pvt. Mejhor Morta, 26, (left) of Florida was found unresponsive on July 17 near Stillhouse Hollow Lake. The body of Spc. Francisco Gilberto Hernandezvargas, 24, (right) was found August 2 after he died in a boating accident at the same lake over the weekend

July 17, 2020: Pvt. Mejhor Morta, 26, of Pensacola, Florida was found dead July 17 in the vicinity of Stillhouse Hollow Lake, around 15 miles from the Fort Hood base.

August 2, 2020: The body of Spc. Francisco Gilberto Hernandezvargas, 24, is recovered from Stillhouse Hollow Lake following boating incident not far from where Morta was found.

August 12, 2020: Spc. Cole Jakob Aton, 22, of Kentucky died after he was hit by a car as he was assisting a minor accident scene

August 13, 2020: National Guard soldier, Sgt Bradley Moore dies during a training exercise at the base

Sgt. Elder Fernandes, 23, was found dead hanging from a tree on August 19. He had allegedly been hazed and 'humiliated' by peers after he reported he was sexually assaulted by a male superior, his family's lawyer said

August 19, 2020: Sgt. Elder Fernandes, 23, is reported missing after he was last seen on August 17.

August 25, 2020: The body of Fernandes is believed to have been found about 30 miles from Fort Hood

August 28, 2020: Pvt. Corlton L. Chee, 25, collapsed during fitness training at Fort Hood on August 28. He died two days later.

November 3, 2020: Spc. Cory Grafton, 20, was arrested after a witness account and advanced DNA testing allegedly linked him to the murder of Chelsea Cheatham, 32, who was found dead in a Days Inn hotel, six minutes away from the Texas base, in June 2019
The father of a college student who's been missing for over a week has criticised authorities for acting too slowly during the search operation.

Saniyya Dennis, 19, a Buffalo State College sophomore, was last seen leaving her college campus on April 24 at around 11pm.

Her phone signal was later tracked to a cell tower near Goat Island in Niagara Falls at around 1.30am the following morning.

Since then, officers say no one has heard from Saniyya and there's been no activity in her phone or bank accounts.

Her family have since criticized the police for not moving fast enough with the investigation.

Calvin Byrd, Dennis' father, criticised the police for failing to get hold of security footage of his daughter sooner.

Saniyya's phone signal was later tracked to a cell tower near Goat Island in Niagara Falls at around 1.30am the following morning. But nobody has heard from her since then and there's been no activity in her phone or bank accounts

Security footage of Saniyya on the night she went missing

Dennis, originally from the Bronx, is described as 5 ft 3 inches tall with black hair and brown eyes

During a conference at the Buffalo State College campus, the police revealed that they had security footage appearing to show Dennis at a bus depot on the night she went missing. However, they added that they were only able to get hold of her cell phone records on April 27.

Calvin Byrd later criticised the police for reacting too slowly to the matter.

He said: 'Why does it take so long to get subpoenas to cellphone records? Why does it take so long to get video footage of buses? If this was somebody else's kid, I think it wouldn't have happened like this.

Her family say call records suggest that she had been communicating with someone on Saturday until her phone was pinged the next morning. However, they do not know who that person might be.

He father added: 'My daughter is a black honor roll student at the college and has no tendency of doing...we're all baffled as to what's going on.

'She was a good friend, a good person,' Saniyya's sister said. 'She has a good heart.'

Calvin Byrd (pictured), the father of Sanniya Dennis. 'We combed the whole park, even places where she was nowhere near, putting up flyers. The dogs came out yesterday, and today they had the helicopter for the search,' the rapper said

Saniyya Dennis, 19, a Buffalo State College sophomore, was last seen leaving her college campus on April 24 at around 11pm

Buffalo State College Police Chief Peter Carey said that a K-9 search took place Friday afternoon but they could not fly a helicopter to help with the search due to adverse weather conditions.

'Understandably, emotions are high right now, but I want to be clear that our department will not rest until Saniyya is found. Buffalo State remains in close consultation with and is supporting the Dennis family,' he said.

Volunteers, friends and family have launched a search operation to help find Dennis.

Julia Stevens, who led a search party and distributed posters around the area, told WKBW: 'We want to make sure that her face is everywhere. That everywhere you go in Niagara Falls you know to look out for this girl.'

Dennis, originally from the Bronx, is described as 5 ft 3 inches tall with black hair and brown eyes.


Verizon is set to sell internet pioneers Yahoo and AOL for $5 billion.

Verizon is set to sell fallen internet pioneers Yahoo and AOL to the private equity firm Apollo Global Management in a deal worth $5 billion.

It is selling both companies at a considerable loss, having previously bought them for almost $10 billion in a bid to compete with the likes of Google and Facebook.

But Verizon will keep a 10% overall stake in the new company, which will now be known as Yahoo and led by CEO Guru Gowrappan.

Apollo owns a wide range of companies such as photo-sharing business Shutterfly, cloud computing firm Rackspace and broadcast outlet Cox Media.

To make a return on its investment, Apollo aims to propel sales growth with an increased focus on more premium subscriptions for Yahoo Finance or more sports betting and fantasy leagues as part of its Yahoo Sports business.

The purchase comes after Apollo co-founder Leon Black stood down as chairman earlier this year after it was revealed he paid $150 million to disgraced child trafficker Jeffrey Epstein.

An investigation by Apollo found 'no evidence that Mr Black was involved in any way with Mr Epstein's criminal activities at the time.'

However, the report did reveal that Black paid Epstein an astonishing $158 million in fees for services.

The latest sale also includes Verizon's advertising technology business alongside properties including Yahoo Finance, Yahoo Mail and tech blogs Engadget and TechCrunch.

The deal will bring an end to Verizon's failed venture in the media production and advertising industries.

Verizon originally paid $4.4 billion for AOL in 2015 and another $4.5 billion for Yahoo two years later.

Leon David Black (born July 31, 1951), former-CEO of private equity firm Apollo Global Management, speaks during the Milken Institute Global Conference in Beverly Hills, California

The purchase comes after Apollo co-founder Leon Black stood down as chairman earlier this year after it was revealed he paid $150 million to disgraced child trafficker Jeffrey Epstein

After the news was announced, shares of Verizon Communications Inc., based in New York, rose by over 0.5 per cent. Meanwhile, Apollo's share price increased slightly by 0.22 per cent.

INTERNAL MEMO TO EMPLOYEES FROM VERIZON CEO HANS VESTBERG V Team, Moments ago we made an important announcement. Weve entered into an agreement with a leading global investment manager, Apollo, to acquire Verizon Media. While this is a bittersweet moment, Verizon will maintain a minority stake in the new company, which upon deal closing will be called Yahoo. This is a big step forward for our Media team. A team that delivered an incredible turnaround these past 2.5 years - capped off by the last 2 quarters of double digit growth. This move will help accelerate that growth. After a strategic review, Guru and I discussed, and believed, that the full value of Medias offerings have yet to be unlocked. Apollo has a powerful vision that includes aggressively pursuing growth areas in commerce, content and betting. One that also features synergies with many of the traditional brick and mortar companies in their portfolio who can benefit from Medias e-commerce platform. What made Apollos offer so appealing, is that it includes leveraging the entire Verizon Media ecosystem of adtech, affiliate relationships, data, insights, targeting and reach. I believe this move is right for all of our stakeholders including the Media employees. Our purpose is to create the networks that move the world forward, and this will help us better focus all our energy and resources on our core competencies. I couldnt be more proud of the work that Guru, his leadership team, and the entire Media team of Builders has done to get to this point. In fact, its important to note that Guru will continue in his current leadership role. As a reminder, as with any deal like this, the transition will take time to complete. Its important that we continue to stay focused on our ongoing work together, across all our business units and continue to deliver the best customer experiences we are known for. This is but one more chapter in an iconic and storied brand. I am excited about where they will take the new Yahoo. Hans V. Advertisement

Apollo is a private equity firm that owns the Venetian resort in Las Vegas and crafts retailer Michaels.

Verizon is selling its media assets as it takes a renewed focus on rolling out 5G mobile networking.

In 2019 Verizon sold Tumblr for an undisclosed sum that was thought to have been less than $3 million, a far smaller sum compared to the $1.1 billion Yahoo paid for the blogging platform in 2013.

Last year Verizon sold Huffpost to Buzzfeed, a property AOL paid $315 million for in 2011 that resulted in a $119 million charge to its quarterly earnings 'primarily related to the disposition of the HuffPost business.'

Verizon's media companies incurred a $4.6bn devaluation in 2018 after experiencing 'increased competitive and market pressures...that resulted in lower than expected revenues and earnings.'

The filing added: 'Those pressures were expected to continue and have resulted in a loss of market positioning to our competitors in the digital advertising business.'

The firm also 'achieved lower than expected benefits from the integration of Yahoo and AOl.'

The sale further underscores Verizons decision to focus on expanding its 5G internet services, which covered 230m people in more than 2,700 cities as of December last year.

AOL and Yahoo were both internet titans during their heyday.

At its peak, AOL had a market capitalization of more than $200 billion and Yahoo more than $125 billion.

Despite competing for ad revenue with tech giants, Verizon Media's revenue rose 10% in the most recent quarter from the year before, to $1.9billion.

Financial firms have played an increasingly prominent role in traditional media as well in recent years, buying up newspaper chains and slashing costs.

Verizon will receive $4.25 billion in cash, preferred interests of $750 million and the minority stake.

The deal is expected to be completed later this year.

In a statement, Apollo partner Reed Rayman said: 'We are thrilled to help unlock the tremendous potential of Yahoo and its unparalleled collection of brands.

We have enormous respect and admiration for the great work and progress that the entire organization has made over the last several years, and we look forward to working with Guru, his talented team, and our partners at Verizon to accelerate Yahoos growth in its next chapter.'

Hans Vestberg, chief executive of Verizon, said Apollo would provide the necessary resources and investment for Yahoo to grow.

He added: 'During the strategic review process, Apollo delivered the strongest vision and strategy for the next phase of Verizon Media. I have full confidence that Yahoo will take off in its new home.'

Apollo's share price rose slightly after the announcement

Verizon's share price rose by 0.57% after announcing the sale of Yahoo and AOL

'What made Apollos offer so appealing, is that it includes leveraging the entire Verizon Media ecosystem of adtech, affiliate relationships, data, insights, targeting and reach,' Vestberg said.

Verizon sought buyers for Yahoo Finance in 2019, and some industry estimates had valued that business alone at around $2 billion.

That compares to the roughly $4.48 billion Verizon spent on Yahoo in 2017, betting its 1 billion-plus users would be a fertile audience for online ads.

Among the most notable companies Apollo has an investment in are ADT, CareerBuilder, Cox Media Group, Intrado, Rackspace, Redbox, Shutterfly, Smart & Final, and University of Phoenix.

Apollo Global Management acquired digital retailer Shutterfly for 2.7b billion dollars in 2019.

In the same year it snapped up Cox Media Group, a portfolio of radio and TV stations, for $3.1 billion.

HOW YAHOO WENT FROM $125 BILLION VALUATION TO JUST $5 BILLION

Yahoo was founded in 1994 by Stanford students Jerry Yang and David Filo.

It was one of the pioneers of the early Internet era, and has grown rapidly to become a one-stop-shop web portal with a range of services including web browsing and email.

In the early 2000s, just before the dot-com bubble burst, Yahoo! was the most visited site in the world.

It reached its peak that same year when the company's valuation reached $125 billion.

However, by 2002, Yahoo's valuation tumbled down to $10 billion, a mere shadow of its former self.

The former internet titan has experienced a rapid fall from grace in part due to a series of poor business decisions.

1. Buying Tumblr:

In a bid to turn around Yahoo's fortunes, former CEO Marissa Mayer bought social network Tumblr for $1.1 billion in May 2013.

Despite investing hundreds of millions of dollars into the project, Tumblr essentially disappeared into obscurity.

It was later sold in 2019 to Wordpress' parent company Automatic, reportedly for the far smaller sum of $3million.

2. Failing to buy Facebook:

According to a book called The Facebook Effect by David Kirkpatrick, Yahoo initially offered $1 billion to Facebook but later lowered it to $850 million. Facebook declined the offer within 10 minutes, according to the author. Reports suggest that the board of directors would have forced Zuckerberg to accept an offer of $1.1 billion, yet Yahoo executives refused to agree to the increased bid.

3. Declining Microsoft's acquisition:

In 2008, Microsoft had declared interest in buying Yahoo for $44.6 billion. The company refused. It was later bought by Verizon for $4.8 billion.
Bobby Paul Edward, 56, may have to pay double in restitution for enslaving an intellectually-disabled black man and making him work without pay

An alleged racist restaurant boss who enslaved a disabled black employee for four years has been ordered to pay his victim double the $273,000 fine previously set.

An appeals court ruled last month that Bobby Paul Edwards, who ran the J&J Cafeteria in Conway, South Carolina, should now pay John Christopher Smith, 43, $546,000 in withheld wages and damages.

The fourth circuit judge who upped the restitution amount ruled that the fine levied on Edwards as part of a 2019 plea deal which also saw him jailed for 10 years was insufficient.

The judge argued in court documents obtained by the Daily Mail that the original amount only included unpaid minimum wages and overtime compensation, but did not include 'an additional equal amount as liquidated damages,' as required under the Fair Labor Standards Act which doubles the amount repaid to victims like Smith who have been exploited by their employers.

In its 2019 decision, the district court concluded that making Edwards, now 56, pay the extra $273,000 would be 'statutory punitive damages' that were only available in civil cases.

The government then appealed that decision, and the appellate court is now sending its ruling back to the district court to recalculate Smith's award.

John Christopher Smith, pictured in October 2017, has mild delayed cognitive development and an IQ of 70, and is in line to receive a $546,000 payout

Smith started washing dishes and busing tables at the Conway restaurant when he was just 12-years-old in 1990. Nearly 20 years later, the owner started to abuse him

If the district court rules that Edwards has to pay the 'equal amount in liquidated damages,' he would owe Smith, now 43, a total of $546,000 for the five years he kept him imprisoned in a small room and refused to pay him for his work.

Smith started washing dishes and busing tables at the Conway restaurant when he was just 12-years-old in 1990. After just a few years, the court documents say, Smith dropped out of high school and started working at the restaurant full-time.

He was happy with his employment at the restaurant, according to court documents, until Edwards took over the business from his brother in 2009.

At that point, Edwards moved Smith into a roach-infested apartment he owned, which Smith described in an ABC 15 interview as little more than an office with a bed in it.

He refused to let Smith see his family, threatened to have him arrested and called him racial slurs, according to court documents.

'I couldn't go anywhere. I couldn't see my family, so that was that,' Smith said in the ABC interview in 2015. 'That's the basic thing I wanted to see was my mom come see me.'

'I couldn't see my mom,' he continued, 'and I couldn't talk to nobody.'

It remains unclear how Edwards was able to keep Smith separated from his family for so long.

Edwards also used physical violence, threats and intimidation to coerce Smith, who has mild delayed cognitive development, into working more than 18-hour days during the week and 11 hours on Sundays.

He told Smith, who had an IQ of 70, that his earnings were being kept in a bank account, but he was never given access to it.

'I felt like I was in prison,' Smith said in court documents. 'Most of the time I felt unsafe, like Bobby could kill me if he wanted.'

'I wanted to get out of there so bad, but couldn't think about how I could without being hurt.'

The court documents allege Smith had been whipped with belts and kitchen pans and punched multiple times.

In one instance, Edwards allegedly thought Smith did not deliver fried chicken to the buffet as quickly as he demanded, and dipped metal tongs into hot grease, which he then pressed into Smith's neck.

Smith claimed in the interview with ABC 15 that Edwards' family knew about the abuse, but did nothing to stop it.

'They knew,' he said. 'All of 'em knew. They knew what he was doing.'

'I think he's racist,' Smith continued. 'But I didn't know that until now.'

Smith was finally freed in 2014, and local NAACP President Abdullah Mustafa, pictured left with Smith in 2017, tried to find him a better place to work

Geneane Caines, a mother-in-law of one of the waitresses, reported the abuse to authorities and now acts as Smith's advocate

Other restaurant employees were aware of this abuse, according to court documents, but were afraid to report it, until one day in October 2014, when a customer, Geneane Caines, noticed scars on Smith's body and reported it to authorities.

'Customers that were going in there would hear stuff and they didn't know what was going on,' Caines, who had a daughter-in-law working as a waitress at the restaurant, told WMBF, 'and they would ask the waitresses, and the waitresses were so scared of Bobby they wouldn't tell them what it was.'

Smith was immediately taken into Adult Protective Services following the report, and Caines and local NAACP President Abdullah Mustafa worked to find him new employment. Caines also acted as Smith's advocate during legal proceedings.

'Anyone who is rational and has any sense of logic should realize once you have the facts right here, it should be more than just assault,' Mustafa said to WMBF in 2015.

Edwards pleaded guilty to one count of forced labor in 2014, and he was ordered in 2019 to pay $273,000 in restitution and serve 10 years in prison.

It remains unclear whether any of the restitution has been paid yet. DailyMail.com has contacted the South Carolina District Attorney's Office and Caines for further comment.

In a statement in 2019, however, the U.S. Attorney, Sherri Lydon said, 'For stealing his victim's freedom and wages, Mr. Edwards has earned every day of his sentence.'

'The U.S. Attorney's Office will not tolerate forced or exploitative labor in South Carolina, and we are grateful to the watchful citizen and our partners in law enforcement who put a stop to this particularly cruel violence.'
A four-year-old Texas girl died after being mauled by a mixed-breed dog in her own backyard.

Elayah Brown was attacked around 5pm on Friday in a south Fort Worth backyard by the family's dog, according to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.

She died from her injuries about an hour later after being transported to Cook Childrens Medical Center, the Tarrant County Medical Examiners Office said.

The dog, described as a mixed-breed, was euthanized Saturday by the City of Fort Worth Animal Care & Control at the Fort Worth Animal Shelter.

It's unclear exactly what the dog's dominant breed the dog is.

Elayah Brown, 4, was attacked 5 p.m. Friday in a south Fort Worth, Texas, backyard by a mixed-breed family dog

Fort Worth Animal Care and Control lead the dog who mauled Elayah Brown, 4, Friday evening in south Fort Worth, Texas

Fort Worth Animal Care and Control take away a mixed-breed dog who mauled Elayah Brown, 4, in a south Fort Worth, Texas, backyard

The family signed the dog over to Fort Worth Animal Care & Control, according to Diane Covey, a spokesperson for the City of Fort Worth.

'At that point, Fort Worth Animal Care & Control owns the dog. An evaluation was done of the dog based on behavior and history,' she said.

'Based on the history of the dog causing a vicious attack, the best decision to make on behalf of the family, the dog, and the community was to humanely euthanize the dog.'

In a GoFundMe page launched to help cover the cost of Elayah's funeral, her uncle Reginal Arberry described the child as a 'bright, beautiful and inspiring person' and said the family was devastated by the loss.
Fenn started her education career as a first- and fifth-grade reading teacher and was a principal at both elementary and middle school levels before moving into division-wide roles as a director of instruction and assistant superintendent of personnel, according to Barber.
Sadiq Khan was accused of 'getting rich by suing the police today' as the fight to become London mayoral vote on Thursday heated up.

Tory candidate Shaun Bailey launched an attack on the Labour incumbent's record on crime in the capital in a new election broadcast.

It accuses Mr Khan of earning 1.3million in eight years from 328 legal cases brought against the Metropolitan Police between 1996 and 2004.

The Shaun Bailey campaign cites a freedom of information request that showed Mr Khan's former firm, Christian Khan, earned this money while he was a partner before being elected Tooting MP in 2005.

In the new video, Mr Bailey speaks to a victim of crime in London and question's Mr Khan's credentials to oversee the Metropolitan Police on the basis of his previous legal work.

'The mayor of London is the police and crime commissioner for London,' he says.

'It makes me wonder: does he have the right values for Londoners, to make us safe?'

Screengrabs from the new election broadcast by Shaun Bailey, in which he attacks Sadiq Khan's record as a human rights lawyer.

Tory candidate Shaun Bailey launched an attack on the Labour incumbent's record on crime in the capital in a new election broadcast.

Mr Khan with Keir Starmer in Lewisham this morning, as he urged Londoners to come out and vote on Thursday.

He also repeats his vow to boost police numbers by 8,000, saying: 'If criminals are not pursued and prosecuted they become bolder and bolder. It's very important that we send a message that being a criminal in London is risky.'

In a separate interview today Mr Bailey also accused Mr Khan of being less 'street' than him.

'He's been hidden in his ivory tower, he's a multimillionaire property landlord, great for him,' Mr Bailey told City AM.

'I've come from the street, I always ask the tough questions, I always ask the questions people are sat in their home asking.'

When the claims about Mr Khan's wealth were first made last week, a London Labour spokesperson said: 'The Tories used exactly the same smear against Sadiq during Zac Goldsmith's racist campaign in 2016, which was widely denounced including by leading Conservatives, and now it seems that sadly they are willing to stoop to the same disgusting depths again.

'This just goes to show how desperate the Tory candidate is getting as Londoners see that he simply doesn't share their values.'

It comes ahead of Thursday's vote, in which Mr Khan is expected to be comfortably re-elected.

But despite holding a lead of around 20 points he today urged Londoners to make sure they came out to vote amid fears that Covid affect turnout.

He visited a community centre in Lewisham with Labour leader Keir Starmer this morning, telling City AM: 'This election is a tight two-horse race  only me or the Tory candidate can win and become mayor.'

In Mr Bailey's election video he meets Laithe Jajeh, a Conservative councillor in Barnet whose family has been the victim of several burglaries.

He outlines his fears over the safety of his family home and adds: 'This is a mayor that we have at the moment who literally got rich suing the police.

In London, Mr Khan is the bookies' favourite to retain City Hall.

Voters choose the mayor using the supplementary vote system, picking a first and a second preference for the job.

If a candidate receives more than half of all the first choice votes they are elected. If this does not happen, the two candidates with the most first choice votes go through to another round, with second preferences from the eliminated candidates taken into account.

Voters in the capital will also elect 25 London Assembly Members.

Sir Keir Starmer today said he will 'take full responsibility whatever the outcome' ahead of the elections on Thursday.

'I will take full responsibility for the results in the elections this week, I will take full responsibility for everything that the Labour Party does,' he told reporters

'We have had a fantastic team of candidates and people out there, members and supporters, having conversations on the doors.

'We've got a number of days to go but I will take full responsibility whatever the outcome.'
A Good Samaritan was filmed saving a baby girl flung into a Maryland bay from a car she was traveling in after a huge pile-up left the vehicle dangling over a railing.

The incident took place just before 2.47pm on Sunday along the Route 90 bridge in Ocean City and left eight people injured, among them a one-and-a-half-year-old girl who had been ejected from a silver pickup truck into the Assawoman Bay.

A bystander immediately jumped into the water and rescued the baby, as seen in a cellphone recording made by eyewitness Tricia Michele Roberts-Oertel and first obtained by Delmarva Now.

A multi-vehicle crash took place on the Route 90 bridge in Ocean City, Maryland, on Sunday afternoon, leaving this pickup truck dangling over the guardrail

The impact of the crash caused a baby girl to be ejected from the pickup truck into the Assawoman Bay. Firefighters on the scene used equipment to secure the truck

A Good Samaritan (pictured in red) jumped into the water and rescued the unconscious baby girl

The rescuer is seen in a screenshot from a bystander's video handing the child over to a boater. She was then airlifted to a hospital in Baltimore

In the video, a man in a red T-shirt is seen cradling a child in his arms while swimming in the bay, before handling her over to someone on board a private boat.

The unnamed hero then climbs into the vessel. He has not been publicly identified as of Monday afternoon.

Rob Korb, an Ocean City firefighter and photographer who was at the scene just moments after the accident, wrote in a Facebook post that the Good Samaritan performed CPR on the baby before rescuers arrived.

Officials say the five-car pileup on the bridge left eight people injured, including the baby

The cause of the multi-car collision on the bridge is being investigated by the Ocean City Police Department.

People are seen standing on the bridge following the dramatic crash and rescue Sunday

Korb also stated that the accident involved five vehicles, and that the child was ejected as a result of a head-on collision between the truck she was in and another vehicle.

'Ive been on some crazy jobs over the years but this one will be one to remember,' he wrote.

According to a press release from Ocean City Fire Department, firefighters responded to the scene and secured the truck hanging over the guardrail, while paramedics treated multiple 'priority' patients.

Seven victims were transported by ambulances to area hospital, while the baby was airlifted to Johns Hopkins Children's Hospital in Baltimore. An update on her condition has not yet been shared.

The cause of the multi-car collision on the bridge is being investigated by the Ocean City Police Department.
A teenage killer who stabbed a new mother to death in a cocaine-fuelled attack when she was just 15 has been sent back to prison less than six months after she was freed.

Jordan Jobson stabbed Samantha Madgin, 18, to death in Wallsend in August 2007 and was jailed for life.

She was then released on licence in December. However, Jobson is now back behind bars after breaching one of the licence's conditions.

It is not clear which condition she breached but she will remain locked up until her case is reviewed by the parole board.

Today Ms Madgin's mother, Alison, has told of the rollercoaster of emotions she is living with as she wonders when her daughter's killer will be back on the streets.

Jordan Jobson (pictured) stabbed Samantha Madgin, 18, to death in Wallsend in August 2007 and was jailed for life

Pictured: Samantha Madgin who was just 18 when she was murdered

The 55-year-old said: 'We are not allowed to find out what she's done, but I just hope that nobody has been hurt.

'We are just left wondering what she's done. It's never ending for us.'

Ms Madgin had been enjoying her first night out since giving birth to son Callum when she fatally crossed paths with Jobson, who she had never met before.

Today Ms Madgin's mum, Alison, has told of the rollercoaster of emotions she is living with as she wonders when her daughter's killer will be back on the streets. Pictured: Samantha Madgin

The killer, who had been drinking vodka and taking cocaine, armed herself with a knife after a disturbance broke out in an alleyway, Newcastle Crown Court was told.

Jobson stabbed unarmed Ms Madgin multiple times times in the face, arms and chest.

One of the blows pierced her lung and severed a major artery near her heart, meaning nothing could be done to save Samantha's life.

The killing left Samantha's son Callum, who was just 10 weeks old at the time, without a mum.

Jobson, from Walker in Newcastle, was later convicted of murder and jailed for life. She was originally handed a minimum term of 15 years.

However, after two separate appeals, that was reduced to 11 years.

Jobson had been eligible for parole in 2018, and was moved to an open prison in preparation for her release.

But she was returned to a higher-security jail just three months before her minimum term came to an end following an incident at HMP Askham Grange, an open prison in Yorkshire.

It is understood she had threatened another inmate.

Alison (pictured) said: 'We are not allowed to find out what she's done, but I just hope that nobody has been hurt. 'We are just left wondering what she's done. It's never ending for us'

In April 2019, just weeks before she was due to come before the parole board, she scuppered her chance of release again after failing to comply with conditions when she was allowed out on day release.

Ms Madgin's family have since fought tirelessly to prevent her release.

But Alison was told last November that her appeal against the board's decision to release Jobson had failed and the killer would be freed on licence.

'I have always tried to get through life by not focusing on her, but to focus on the good things,' said Alison.

Alison (pictured) was told last November that her appeal against the board's decision to release Jobson had failed and the killer would be freed on licence

'But when she did get released it just brought everything back.'

And Alison believes Jobson's latest behaviour shows she is not ready to be back on the streets.

'She hasn't learned anything,' she said. 'Is this going to be the pattern now? Is she institutionalised now? She's not a kid anymore, she's an adult.'

In 2019 Ms Madgin's loved ones set up Samantha's Legacy in her memory.

The organisation provides help and support to other families suffering as a result of knife crime.

Alison and Samantha's sister, Carly, visit schools and young people's groups to share their story in a bid to end Britain's stabbing epidemic.
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A group of fifth graders in Yorktown, Virginia, gave President Joe Biden and Jill Biden their honest assessment of what it was like learning from home, sharing how they didn't like it but at least could sneak in naps.

The first couple stopped in Yorktown Elementary School on Monday to visit the fifth grade classroom as the Biden administration starts a blitzkrieg to sell its $4.1 trillion in federal spending package amid negotiations with Republicans.

The kids are back in the classroom four days a week (Wednesday is for cleaning) and sat at desks with plastic shields around the them. Everyone wore face masks.

President Biden reminded the kids that the first lady teaches full time and asked them how they liked learning from home.

'It was a little difficult with all the glitches,' one girl said. 'I definitely prefer it this way though.'

One boy chimed in: 'I didn't like virtual. It was terrible.'

Another student pointed out when their teacher Mrs. Bertamini was helping someone else 'you could eat.'

And another noted: 'If we were really tired we could take a little nap.'

Jill Biden, who teaches at a Northern Virginia Community College, laughed and said her students do the same.

'You just turn off the camera. I've seen that,' the first lady said.

Republicans have criticized Biden for not opening schools soon enough but none of them voted for the $1.9 trillion COVID relief bill that contained money to help schools reopen - extra cleaning, supplies, and more staff and teachers. Biden has said he wants schools to reopen safely.

President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden were welcomed to a fifth grade classroom at Yorktown Elementary School on Monday

After their school stop and on their way to the next location, President Biden stopped the motorcade at Yorktown High School to greet well wishers

President Biden posed for a photo with the little boy

The president also asked the kids what they wanted to be when the grew up and got a variety of answers: a fashion designer, a chef, a hair stylist.

The students were working on a project where they were designing structures in case they were shipwrecked. The school has a lot of children of military members as Naval Weapons Station Yorktown is nearby.

Some of the less optimistic students were planning where to bury their teacher should their shelter fail.

'In case I fail, I'm going to bury my teacher right here,' one student said.

'I think your teacher can handle it,' Jill Biden noted.

'That's pretty cool,' the president said.

President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden examined the structures student built to show what they would do in case of a shipwreck

President Biden also asked the kids what they wanted to be when they grew up

One less optimistic student was planning where to bury his teacher if his structure failed

Their next stop is Tidewater Community College. En route there, the Bidens stopped the presidential motorcade in front of the local high school, where they greeted a group of students and staff, including a group of Navy ROTC.

The two plans Biden is pitching includes $1 trillion in spending on education and childcare over 10 years and $800 billion in tax credits aimed at middle- and low-income families. It also includes a proposal for universal pre-K, two year college tuition and more money for teachers.

The first couple, who wore face masks as they left the White House, are kicking off a weeklong push by the Biden administration to sell its massive social welfare and infrastructure plans.

The first lady heads out West on Wednesday to visit Utah, Nevada and Colorado. Vice President Kamala Harris will be in Milwaukee on Tuesday and in Providence, R.I., on Wednesday. Doug Emhoff will visit the Lehigh Valley on a Wednesday. President Biden visits Connecticut on Wednesday and New Orleans on Thursday.

President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden headed to Yorktown, Virginia, on Monday as his administration starts a blitzkrieg to sell its $4.1 trillion in federal spending package

The Bidens will visit two schools - Yorktown Elementary School and Tidewater Community College

Polls show conflicted feelings over Biden's $2.3 trillion jobs package - a massive infrastructure bill that Republicans have criticized for containing items other than tradition infrastructure, such as housing for the elderly and a Climate Corp.

An April Ipsos Poll found that only 45% supported the plan but many elements in the proposal had strong support, such as the repair or replacement of American ports, railways, bridges, and highways (79%) and investing in home-based care for the elderly or disabled (78%).

Biden plans to pay for his ambitious jobs agenda with a hike in corporate taxes.

He'll also be pitching his second proposal, a $1.8 trillion families plan he laid out in his speech to Congress last week. Called a 'human infrastructure' bill, it focuses on social programs such as education and health care and is funded through a tax hike on the wealthy.

Many of the items - the expanded Child Tax Credit, expanded paid family and medical leave, free tuition and universal pre-K - poll well with voters.

The president has pushed for schools to reopen safely and included money for that in his COVID rescue package that Congress passed in March.

'He does believe that schools should be able to reopen in September, and reopen safely, following the CDC guidelines,' White House senior adviser Anita Dunn said Sunday on CNN's State of the Union.

But, she noted, it's an 'unpredictable virus' and 'we can't look in a crystal ball and say what September looks like.'

Republicans are balking at the cost of Biden's proposals and the expanded role in government the programs would bring.

They've countered Biden's infrastructure plan with a smaller proposal of their own that focuses on tradition items and have called the president's families plan a nonstarter.

Later this week, Jill Biden will head to the West Coast and Joe Biden goes to New Orleans

Jill Biden's face mask had pearl details on its bands, which matched her pearl bracelet

President Biden gave Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam an elbow bump when he and first lady Jill were greeted by Northam and wife Pamela Northam upon their arrival in Newport News, Va.

Democrats control both chambers of Congress but hold a narrow margin in the House. In the Senate, Biden needs at least 10 Republican votes to move his proposals through the legislative process.

As part of negotiations, Biden will host congressional leaders in both parties in the White House next week on May 12. It's a different step from negotiations in the $1.9 trillion COVID relief plan passed in March, which did not garner a single Republican vote.

'We're going to work with Republicans. We're going to find common ground. You know, the Senate last week passed by an overwhelming margin, a part of a water infrastructure bill that's part of- related to our jobs plan. So I think you're starting to see some progress here,' White House chief of staff Ron Klain said on CBS' 'Face the Nation' on Sunday.

The president is considering breaking up his American Jobs Plan in separate bills to help shepherd them through Congress.

'President Biden has been clear that he knows this is a negotiation, that he knows that negotiation requires compromise at some point, and that he wants to move this package forward in a bipartisan way, if that's possible,' senior White House adviser Anita Dunn said Sunday on CNN's State of the Union. 'We're looking forward to having discussions. We are open to people's ideas. This is discussion time and idea time for the White House.'

That plan, which focuses on infrastructure, has Republican support on traditional items like repairing roads and bridges along with expanding broadband internet access.

The GOP has pitched a a $568 billion plan that focuses on roads, transit systems, and broadband internet.

'Frankly, if the White House is going to work with us, this is a deal we can do,' Republican Senator Rob Portman said Sunday on 'Meet the Press.'
Josh Duggar's alleged rape victim, former porn star Danica Dillon, said she hopes he is jailed 'for the rest of his life' over his child pornography charges in a searing interview with DailyMailTV.

The former porn actress, whose real name is Ashley Johnston, said she was 'not shocked' by Duggar's two counts of child pornography possession, and said it was 'disgusting' that the reality star had 'never faced any kind of repercussion' for his sex pest history.

The 19 Kids and Counting star pleaded not guilty in a virtual court hearing Friday after turning himself in to a Springdale, Arkansas, police station the day before.

Johnston sued Duggar in 2015 claiming a brutal rape during which he allegedly choked her and ignored her pleas for him to stop.

In an exclusive interview with DailysisterMailTV, the mother of four described the alleged harrowing ordeal and how it left her emotionally crippled.

Josh Duggar's alleged rape victim, former porn star Danica Dillon, sat down with DailyMailTV and recounted the alleged abuse

Josh Duggar pleaded not guilty to federal child porn charges on Friday during a virtual court hearing after turning himself in

The 34-year-old said she was also disgusted at Duggar's wife for sticking by him and bearing seven of his children, despite his previous admission he sexually assaulted his younger sisters, and despite the current charges  which include allegations he downloaded sexual images of children under 12.

'I'm not shocked by it. I'm not shocked in the least. He's been a disgusting man his entire young adult life,' Johnston said.

Dillon, real name Ashley Johnston, said she was 'not shocked' by Duggar's two counts of child pornography possession

'I know who he his, millions of people have read who he is, but he's never faced any kind of repercussion, any kind of justice.'

In her lawsuit, Johnston claimed she met Duggar in March 2015 at a Philadelphia strip club where he allegedly paid $600 for lap dances from her.

Josh's wife Anna was six-months pregnant at the time and home with their three children.

She said after repeatedly refusing to let him come back to her nearby hotel room, she eventually agreed  and as soon as they were inside, Duggar allegedly turned on her.

'There was no intimacy, it was ''get naked now, get down on your knees'',' Johnston told DailyMailTV.

'There was no warning, the back of my head was grabbed, his d**k was shoved into my throat and it was hard, hard, hard, with no remorse, no nothing. Almost as if the look in his eyes went black. It was terrifying.

'I was thrown up on the bed, put in multiple different positions, his hands around my throat. At one point I tried pushing off and his entire body was on top of me with his penis in my mouth and I couldn't breathe. I couldn't even gasp for help.'

Johnston said she feared she might choke to death during the alleged rape.

'It was just so intense. It was one of the worst encounters in my life I've had sexually,' she said.

In her lawsuit, Johnston claimed she met Duggar in March 2015 at a Philadelphia strip club where he allegedly paid $600 for lap dances from her

The former porn actress said her second marriage broke down because of the alleged rape, and that it has left her emotionally scarred. She said she had performed in many hardcore porn scenes during her career where she acted out rough sex, but had never invited a man to be violent in the bedroom in her private life

Josh's wife Anna was six-months pregnant at this time and home with their three children.

The young mother said she had performed in many hardcore porn scenes during her career where she acted out rough sex, but had never invited a man to be violent in the bedroom in her private life.

But she said when she sued Duggar in November 2015, it quickly became apparent that it was a losing battle  after he produced Uber receipts purportedly showing he booked a cab in another city the night of the alleged encounter.

'One of my friends was my attorney, I knew this guy personally. I didn't have the income to take on [19 Kids and Counting's channel] TLC or the Duggar family,' she said.

'There were Uber receipts, they were trying to use that as evidence he could have been nowhere near me. But everyone knows I could get an Uber for Tom, Harry, Paul, Frank, to take an Uber in New York 10 blocks down the street.

'I am just one individual person that cannot take on an entire team, and that sucks in the justice system so bad.'

Johnston said she believed the reality star, the eldest son of Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar, had gotten away with a crime  and was horrified when she learned that he molested five minors as a teenager, including four of his sisters.

Jim Bob eventually reported his own son to the police in 2006 over the sexual assaults, after one of his young daughters first disclosed it to him four years earlier.

But the teenager was not prosecuted, and instead spent time at a Christian rehab. He later publicly admitted to the molestation.

Danica said she is disgusted at Duggar's wife for sticking by him and bearing seven of his children, despite his admission he sexually assaulted his sisters

Johnston said she believed the reality star, the eldest son of Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar, had gotten away with a crime  and was horrified when she learned that he molested five minors as a teenager, including four of his sisters, (l-r) Joy-Anna, Jinger, Jessa, and Jill

In her interview, Johnston revealed that she had herself been molested as a child, and said her abuser had never faced justice.

'Child molestation sits very deep in my soul. I think it is the worst crime you can commit to anybody,' she said. 'I was molested when I was a child, and nothing happened to the person that hurt me.'

The former porn star said that despite Duggar's own admission about molesting his sisters, she still became a target for hate by his 19 Kids and Counting fans after she went public with her rape allegation against him.

'There's nothing you can do in that situation, at least then. Then, the Me Too movement was not around. It was: I was a porn star, I was an escort, I deserved it. And there were so many stories after I had come out, bashing me and hurting me,' she said.

'I had so many people emailing me, threatening me, telling me I deserved to die because I outed someone 'of good standing'. It's unspeakable how people like the Duggars can just get away with whatever they want because they have the money or they know the right people.'

Some members of Duggar's family have distanced themselves from him since the charges were filed, though his parents and wife are standing by him.

His sister Jinger released a statement on Instagram last week saying she was 'disturbed' by the charges.

'While this case must go through the legal system, we want to make it clear that we absolutely condemn any form of child abuse and fully support the authorities and judicial process in their pursuit of justice,' she and her husband wrote.

Another sister, Jill, told the Sun: 'We're very sad about the whole thing, it's horrible. It's all very sad. Josh's wife Anna is pregnant with their seventh child, I cannot imagine how she is feeling.'

Jill's husband Derick told the news outlet that 'obviously if there is anything there related to child pornography, we hope that justice is done'.

The 33-year-old former 19 Kids and Counting star pleaded not guilty to the federal charges on Friday during a virtual court hearing during which he was ordered to live with a third party with no children if he is granted bond.

Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar said they still loved Josh and were praying for him after his arrest. Jim Bob reported his own son to the police in 2006 over the sexual assaults, after one of his young daughters first disclosed it to him four years earlier

'Were very sad about the whole thing, its horrible. Its all very sad,' Jill Duggar (with her husband) said of her brother Josh

Jinger Duggar, center, husband Jeremy Vuolo, left, who went shopping in Hollywood last weekend, released a joint statement to say they were 'disturbed' to hear about the charges

Johnston told DailyMailTV it sickened her to see Duggar's wife, who is pregnant with their seventh child, at his side.

'It's disgusting that you know that he's a predator, you know he was inappropriate with children before, and yet you continue to give him more children. You continue to put your children's lives at risk. I don't understand it, I will never understand it,' she said.

'There's something so sick and twisted for a man to be accused of child pornography and to be sat there smiling and his wife saying 'It's ok, we're going to be ok.'

'Because it's not ok. It's not ok for you, it's not ok for those kids. The child pornography that he [is accused of] watching, all of those hundreds of kids that are being abused in ways we'll never know.'

The former porn actress said her second marriage broke down because of the alleged rape, and that it has left her emotionally scarred.

'My life has been tremendously affected by the entire situation,' she said. 'I couldn't even fully go back to shooting movies after that point. Any time I was touched, any time a man raised his voice in a threatening manner, my heart would sink.

'Any time my husband and I attempted to get a little bit frisky in bed, at times I would break down and cry.'

She added that she is now happily married to her third husband, Carson Johnston, and after saving up for college classes with her job at Walmart, she is hoping to pursue education and a new career.

'I have recently started going back to school and I'm just trying to live a very simple life in the best aspects that I can,' she said.
An independent Scotland should not have to pay its fair share of Britain's national debt if it quits the UK, Alex Salmond's new nationalist party has claimed.

Policy documents drawn up by Alba say that it 'rejects entirely any obligation' for the country to inherit a slice of the 1.8trillion if it secedes from the union in the future.

The statement puts the party at odds with Nicola Sturgeon's SNP, which before the 2014 referendum agreed an independent Scotland would take on a 'negotiated and agreed' share of the UK debt.

Mr Salmond, who was previously SNP leader, has urged his former party to adopt this stance on what Alba called a 'clean break settlement'.

It comes Nicola Sturgeon today rejected as 'rubbish' suggestions made by her opponents that an independent Scotland would not have been able to vaccinate its people against Covid as quickly as it has done.

Mr Salmond, who was previously SNP leader, has urged his former party to adopt this stance on what Alba called a 'clean break settlement'.

The statement puts the party at adds with Nicola Sturgeon's (pictured today) SNP, which before the 2014 referendum agreed an independent Scotland would take on a 'negotiated and agreed' share of the UK debt.

Ms Sturgeon today rejected as 'rubbish' suggestions made by her opponents that an independent Scotland would not have been able to vaccinate its people against Covid as quickly as it has done.

Scotland's First Minister said coronavirus vaccines are not a 'gift' from the UK Government to Scotland and are procured on a joint four-nations basis with Westminster and the devolved nations.

Line of Duty star Martin Compston - who lives in Las Vegas - urges Scots to vote for the SNP Line Of Duty star Martin Compston is at the centre of a Twitter storm today after encouraging Scots to back Nicola Sturgeon in the election. The actor urged Scots not to leave the outcome of Thursday's election to chance, calling on them to back the SNP in the ballot. But he became embroiled in a spat with Tory MPs and voters who accused the Greenock-born star of 'hypocrisy' because he now lives in Las Vegas (above) with his American wife. Scottish Conservative MSP Murdo Fraser tweeted: 'Another 'celeb' who doesn't live here telling us how to vote.' Compston clapped back, sharing a picture of a Tory campaign flyer sent to his home in Greenock, and hitting back at critics who accused him of being a 'hypocrite' and telling them how to vote. He said he pays 'top rate tax in Scotland and always has,' adding: 'I see Scottish tory twitter and their bots enraged an actor would express an opinion. 'Apparently it isn't valid either as they claim I don't live here. In that case could you do me, the postman and the environment a favour and stop sending me literature asking for my vote.' The Scottish actor, who stars as Steve Arnott in the hit BBC drama, made the plea in an online rally, which aired shortly before last night's Line Of Duty finale. Compston was joined by other high-profile SNP supporters, including actors Alan Cumming and Brian Cox, crime writer Val McDermid and Mogwai musician Stuart Braithwaite. Advertisement

Alba announced the new policy after figures published in October last year showed the UK Government gross debt reaching more than 1,876 billion - in part because of massive spending to deal with the coronavirus pandemic.

However, Alba noted that 'as a percentage of GDP the debt has doubled since the financial crisis of 2008 when the government and Bank of England embarked on wholesale quantitative easing'.

The policy - which was drawn up by economist and Alba Party Central Scotland candidate Jim Walker - stated: 'That debt is largely owed by one branch of government (the Treasury) to another (the central bank) and therefore forms no legitimate liability for the Scottish or any other people.'

The party made clear it 'rejects entirely any obligation to share debt accrued through central bank money printing and sees no role for Scotland on paying interest on that debt'.

Mr Salmond said: 'Austerity and coronavirus has changed the economic world and changed it utterly. Thus the independence platform must adjust to the new realities.

'They bring with them many new challenges but also great economic opportunities.'

By not taking on any share of UK debt, Alba argued an independent Scotland would be able to focus resources on a economic recovery programme, with the country 'free from the shackles of UK debt, or even worse still paying billions of pounds to the UK Government in some bizarre annual subvention'.

The party wants Scotland to set up its own currency 'as soon as possible' after independence.

Meanwhile, Mr Salmond made clear that if the party succeeds in getting MSPs elected to Holyrood in Thursday's election, the party will put forward a motion instructing the Scottish Government to start independence negotiations with Boris Johnson.

The former first minister said: 'If the people of Scotland back Alba on Thursday, in the first week we will lay a motion instructing the Scottish Government to commence independence negotiations with the UK Government. Then the Scottish Parliament can get on with the job of delivering independence.'

He said to achieve this, Scotland would need 'a refreshed independence platform', adding that Alba's new economic policy paper was a contribution to this 'vital debate'.

Meanwhile, economist Dr Walker argued that it was 'time that the economic benefits of independence were recast for the post-Brexit age'.

He stated: 'Our policy set out today is Alba's proposal and one which we would urge the newly elected Scottish Government to adopt in the independence negotiations which we will ask parliament to instruct them to commence with the UK Government.

'Scotland's position will be immeasurably stronger if we negotiate inclusively as a Parliament with a supermajority for independence, not as a single political party.'

It came as Ms Sturgeon made her own pitch for independence, saying claims that a self-governing Scotland would have been unable to produce coronavirus vaccines were 'nonsense'.

Scotland's First Minister said coronavirus vaccines are not a 'gift' from the UK Government to Scotland and are procured on a joint four-nations basis with Westminster and the devolved nations.

She was asked on ITV's Good Morning Britain programme whether it was true that an independent Scotland would not have vaccinated 2.8million people, as has been done under the UK plan.

Ms Sturgeon replied: 'I just think that is utterly nonsense.

'The UK was still within the transition period when it procured the vaccine and that didn't prevent it procuring the vaccine on a four-nations basis with England, Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland, the way we procure the flu vaccine every year. That was done, nothing would have prevented that happening had we still been in the European Union.

'And of course the delivery of the vaccination programme in Scotland is down to the sterling efforts and fantastic work of NHS Scotland vaccinators and teams across the country and they have my deep and everlasting appreciation for the fantastic work that they are doing.'

GMB presenter Sean Fletcher said the delivery of the vaccination in Scotland was also down to the 'procurement of the UK Government getting those vaccines'.

Ms Sturgeon told him to 'hold on' and stressed procurement was on a four-nations basis.

She added: 'We do it voluntarily on a four-nations basis. It's not a gift from the UK Government to Scotland. We choose to pool our efforts in that way. We do it with the flu vaccine every year.

'Scotland could if it chose procure the vaccine separately - health is devolved - but we chose to do it on a four-nations basis because it makes sense and if Scotland was independent it may well be that we still chose to do that.

'So these arguments that we couldn't do these things if we were independent, frankly, are nonsense and don't stand up to any scrutiny whatsoever.'
A cleaner at a Catholic boys' school has won a 6,280 payout after a colleague made a racist remark about her 'using voodoo'.

Annmarie Jenkins-Hurrell, an elderly black woman of West Indian origin, was subjected to the 'degrading and offensive' remark from a caretaker at The Campion School, in Hornchurch, London.

An employment tribunal heard that colleagues of Mrs Jenkins-Hurrell, who worked at the secondary school for five years, told her that they were 'scared' of her.

One colleague, a caretaker, then asked 'what are you going to do, work your voodoo?'.

After she complained, the school dismissed her grievance, leading her to resign.

Now the cleaner has been awarded a payout after a tribunal found she had been unfairly treated.

Annmarie Jenkins-Hurrell, an elderly black woman of West Indian origin, was subjected to the 'degrading and offensive' remark from a caretaker at The Campion School (pictured), in Hornchurch, London

What is Voodoo? Voodoo - also spelt Vodou and Voudon - is a religion that originates from Africa. Though its exact origins are unknown, it is thought to have originated in the West African nation of Benin and is said to have evolved from the ancient traditions of ancestor worship. In West African Voodoo, the creator is known as Mawu or Mahu and is female in form. However Voodoo has no scripture or world authority - and therefore practices and beliefs differ from community to community. It is, however, commonly community-centred with an emphasis on individual experience, empowerment and responsibility. In the Americas and the Caribbean, it is thought to be a combination of various African, Catholic and Native American traditions. Louisiana Voodoo and Haitian Vodou are two forms that developed in areas where slaves were taken from West Africa to the Americas. Bondye is the supreme creator in Haitian Vodou, with deities called lwa. The wider Voodoo religion is widely misunderstood in the Western world - something scholars say is grounded in racism dating back from the slave trade. It became taboo during this period, with the religion dismissed as superstition and voodoo priests classed as witchdoctors. Hollywood has also been accused of 'dreaming up' practices such as 'Voodoo dolls' in which pins are placed into a doll with the person they are meant to represent feeling actual pain. Experts say that such dolls are used in many cultures, but do not feature prominently in the religion of Voodoo. Source: LiveScience.com Advertisement

Mrs Jenkins-Hurrell worked as a cleaner at the London-based secondary school and sixth form for almost five years from January 2014.

A virtual hearing held at East London Tribunal Centre heard that Mrs Jenkins-Hurrell was the only one of 11 cleaners who was black.

The tribunal heard that, in the autumn of 2017, Mrs Jenkins-Hurrell and Christopher Conner, the site manager, were having a conversation about washing her cleaning cloths.

Mr Conner had arranged for another member of staff to wash all cloths, for which she would be paid extra.

But Mrs Jenkins-Hurrell said that she normally undertook this herself and queried the additional pay arrangements.

The cleaner then told him that she expected her cloths to be washed and clean for the Monday morning.

She told the tribunal that in response to this, Paul Day the caretaker said: 'Oh so if you're not going to get clean cloths by Monday what are you going to do, work your voodoo?'

Ruling that Mr Day had made the remark, the tribunal said: 'Referring to an elderly black woman of West Indian origin working her voodoo is an unwanted racially offensive comment,' it said.

'The comment had both the purpose and the effect of violating [her] dignity and was both degrading and offensive.'

However, it was not until at least six months later Mrs Jenkins-Hurrell raised the racist comment to her bosses.

She also claimed she was being excluded from being given extra shifts as the only black female cleaner.

In May 2018 at a meeting to discuss her complaints, headteacher Keith Williams was found to have behaved in a 'hostile and intimidating' way towards the cleaner.

Following this meeting, Mrs Jenkins-Hurrell wrote a formal letter of complaint to the board of governors which led to an investigation being opened by the assistant headteacher Georgina Peters, a former police officer and science teacher at the school.

This investigation found no evidence of harassment or bullying.

However, the tribunal found that this investigation was 'fundamentally unfair' and 'wholly inappropriate'.

Mrs Jenkins-Hurrell then resigned in November 2018.

In her resignation letter she said: 'I am writing to formally submit my resignation. I feel that this is the only option following the outcome of my grievance and the ongoing stress the school has put me under.'

The tribunal said: '(She) expressed dissatisfaction with Mr Williams's manner towards her during this process and she contended that she had been racially discriminated against, bullied and victimised and that the school had unlawfully deducted from her wages.'

It ruled that although Mr Day's comments amounted to harassment, she had left it too late for her claim to be successful in that regard.

However, it concluded that she was a victim of constructive unfair dismissal due to the poor handling of her complaints.

She has now been awarded 6,281.57 as a result.
Former President Donald Trump has been banned from Facebook since January

Facebook's oversight board will finally announce on Wednesday whether it will allow former President Donald Trump to use the social media site again, four months after banning him over the Capitol riot.

The oversight board was due to announce its decision in mid April but delayed it. On Monday, the board prolonged it further by saying it would announce it decision on Wednesday.

It comes after months of clandestine discussion over the decision and outrage over the Silicon Valley giant's censorship of conservative views and voices.

After banning Trump, the company then banned an interview he'd given to his daughter-in-law, Lara Trump, which was his first on-camera since he left office. Facebook still allowed clips of past interviews and phone interviews that he had given to appear on the pages of media outlets like Fox and CNN.

They also censored posts throughout his presidency and afterwards.

Twitter also banned Trump, claiming he helped stoke the riot.

There are 20 people on Facebook's oversight board, five of whom are American. The majority are left-leaning.

The board was created last year with the first four members chosen directly by Facebook.

Those initial members then worked with the social media giant to select the others. Facebook pays the salaries of the oversight board members.

The oversight board was due to announce its decision in mid April but delayed it. On Monday, the board prolonged it further by saying it would announce it decision on Wednesday

The social media giant was criticized when the makeup of its board was first announced last year with critics saying the so-called 'politically neutral' panel was swamped with left-wing luminaries like former Danish Prime Minister Helle Thorning-Schmidt.

The board, which has since also been criticized for its delayed start and limited remit, has not yet ruled on any of its first batch of six cases that range from hate speech to graphic images.

Their expertise varies between academia - there are several professors - politics and philanthropy. Some work in human rights.

Twitter has not announced if it will ever let Trump back online.

Since losing his social media pages, he has communicated with supporters through email blasts from his office.

His children have also turned to alternative social media sites like Telegram to spread his message.
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Britain has now dished out more than 50million Covid vaccines since the mammoth roll-out began in December, according to official figures.

Department of Health bosses today posted another 250,000 jabs, meaning 34.6million people across the UK have had one and 15.5million  or 30 per cent of all adults  are fully inoculated.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock hailed the 'massive' achievement and said it meant 'we're going to have a great British summer'.

In a video posted on Twitter, he said: 'These jabs are saving lives and helping us get back to normal... I want to pay tribute to everybody involved in this huge achievement  the NHS, armed forces, volunteers, councils, scientists & the British public. A huge national effort.

'[It] seems like only yesterday that Margaret Keenan was getting the first clinically authorised vaccine in the world and now weve delivered 50million. And this is so important of course because it is a life-saving vaccine that helps protect you, helps protect those around you, and it is our route out of this pandemic.

He added: 'And its because of the vaccination programme that were able to keep going down this road map, and I know were going to have a great British summer.'

Boris Johnson told reporters on a pre-election visit to Hartlepool today that results of the NHS' inoculation drive were 'really starting to show up in the epidemiology' as cases remained low despite further rules being relaxed on April 12.

'As things stand, and the way things are going, with the vaccine roll-out going the way that it is - we have done 50million jabs as I speak to you today, a quarter of the adult population, one in four, have had two jabs,' he said.

Meanwhile, Britain today recorded just one Covid death - the lowest daily toll since August. Another 1,649 cases were also added to the total infection tally - the fewest daily infections since the start of September.

Despite the success of the vaccination roll-out coming alongside falling cases and deaths, ministers won't budge on speeding up lockdown-easing plans in England. Foreign holidays and being allowed in pubs are two measures that are meant to be on the cards for May 17.

The Prime Minister today poured cold water on holiday hopes, warning putting lots of countries on the travel 'green list' could risk an 'influx of disease'. His comments came hours after the EU unveiled plans to let vaccinated Brits in for summer trips.

Mr Johnson insisted the government will be 'cautious' amid bitter Cabinet wrangling over how far to loosen the border restrictions this month. Mr Hancock and chief medical officer Chris Whitty are said to be among those pushing for quarantine-free states to be kept to an absolute minimum.

On a pre-election visit to Hartlepool this afternoon, Mr Johnson also claimed there is a 'good chance' that current social distancing rules will be scrapped on June 21  touted as England's independence day.

Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab yesterday hinted masks and social distancing measures would be needed beyond June 21. But the PM today said he hopes it will be possible to axe the existing one-metre plus rule when the nation reaches the final step in his lockdown exit roadmap.

His comments came as hospitality bosses said a return to unrestricted trading is 'critical' and will mean that pubs, bars and restaurants can 'come off life support'. Ditching the one-metre plus rule will allow hospitality venues as well as places like theatres to open at full capacity for the first time in more than a year.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock hailed the 'massive' achievement, saying: 'These jabs are saving lives and helping us get back to normal'

Boris Johnson pours cold water on holidays hope warning a big quarantine-free 'green list' from May 17 could spark 'influx of disease' Boris Johnson today poured cold water on holidays hopes, warning putting lots of countries on the travel 'green list' from May 17 could risk an 'influx of disease'. The PM insisted the government will be 'cautious' amid bitter Cabinet wrangling over how far to loosen the border restrictions this month. Health Secretary Matt Hancock and chief medical officer Chris Whitty are said to be among those pushing for quarantine-free states to be kept to an absolute minimum. But other senior figures are urging a looser approach, insisting that with the outbreak under control in the UK and vaccines making strong progress the government has no right to keep curbing freedoms. Mr Johnson suggested he is siding with the dovish camp on a pre-election visit to Hartlepool this afternoon. 'We do want to do some opening up on May 17 but I don't think that the people of this country want to see an influx of disease from anywhere else,' he told reporters. 'I certainly don't and we have got to be very, very tough, and we have got to be as cautious as we can, whilst we continue to open up.' The comments came as the EU unveiled plans to let vaccinated Brits in for holidays. Brussels has offered hope for getaways with proposals for easing border rules for those who have had jabs and from countries with low infection rates. The UK's 'green list' is not expected to be revealed until Friday, leaving millions of Britons in limbo as they wonder whether trips will be possible. Gibraltar and Malta might be on the list, but much of Europe and the US could remain out of bounds due to fears over variant strains. Advertisement

In other Covid news:

Covid corpses are dumped into graves in India while a daughter gives her dying mother mouth-to-mouth;

Foreign holidays and nights out are less important than before lockdown, according to a survey;

Boris Johnson hints all restrictions could be removed from June 21;

Thousands of Cambridge students defy Covid rules for booze-fuelled 'Caesarian Sunday' to celebrate start of summer term;

Commuter towns experiencing boom in demand for office space as more companies move towards flexible working post-pandemic;

Gyms, sport centres and swimming pools reopen and two households are allowed to meet indoors in latest lockdown easing in Wales.

Responding to the vaccination landmark, the deputy chief executive of NHS Providers Saffron Cordery called it a 'remarkable achievement'.

Ms Cordery added: 'Frontline NHS staff and volunteers have done a tremendous job over the past five months, administering nearly 35million first jabs and over 15million second doses.

'We owe a huge debt of gratitude to everyone involved in the planning and delivery of this huge and complex programme.

'But while there is much to celebrate with the success of the vaccination programme, we still have a long way to go before we reach our next big milestone of offering all adults their first jab by the end of July.

'We'd encourage everyone to have their vaccine when they are offered one and to carry on following the rules on social contact. This will help keep infection rates under control and ensure this current lockdown is our last.'

Boris Johnson suggested he is siding with Mr Hancock's dovish camp on foreign holidays, warning putting lots of countries on the travel 'green list' from May 17 could risk an 'influx of disease'.

'We do want to do some opening up on May 17 but I don't think that the people of this country want to see an influx of disease from anywhere else,' he told reporters.

'I certainly don't and we have got to be very, very tough, and we have got to be as cautious as we can, whilst we continue to open up.'

The comments came as the EU unveiled plans to let vaccinated Brits in for holidays.

Brussels has offered hope for getaways with proposals for easing border rules for those who have had jabs and from countries with low infection rates.

The UK's 'green list' is not expected to be revealed until Friday, leaving millions of Britons in limbo as they wonder whether trips will be possible.

Gibraltar and Malta might be on the list, but much of Europe and the US could remain out of bounds due to fears over variant strains.

Portugal is one country that could be added, with advocates saying infections and the risk of variants is now very low there.

However, a cross-party group of MPs has insisted that holidays should be discouraged even once they become legal in a fortnight's time.

Meanwhile, Thomas Cook chief executive Alan French tried to strike a more positive note about the prospects for later in the summer, saying there is 'great progress' in preparing destinations such as Portugal and Spain for the return of holidaymakers.

In other developments today, Mr Johnson also revealed there is a 'good chance' that current social distancing rules will be scrapped on June 21.

The Prime Minister said he hopes it will be possible to axe the existing one-metre plus rule when the nation reaches the final step in his lockdown exit roadmap.

His comments came as hospitality bosses said a return to unrestricted trading is 'critical' and will mean that pubs, bars and restaurants can 'come off life support'.

Ditching the one-metre plus rule will allow hospitality venues as well as places like theatres to open at full capacity for the first time in more than a year.

It was reported overnight that one-way systems, screens and mask-wearing while moving around could remain in place in hospitality settings beyond June 21 but customer numbers will no longer be limited.

Audiences in theatres and cinemas will have to wear face coverings during performances, while there will be strict guidance on ventilation and staggered entry, according to The Times.

Mr Johnson said on a visit to Hartlepool: ''I think that we will be able to go ahead, feels like May 17 is going to be good.

'But it also looks to me as though June 21 we'll be able to say social distancing as we currently have to do it, the one-metre plus, I think we have got a good chance of being able to dispense with the one-metre plus from June 21.

'That is still dependent on the data, we can't say it categorically yet, we have got to look at the epidemiology as we progress, we have got to look at where we get to with the disease. But that's what it feels like to me right now.'

The ultra-cautious roadmap out of lockdown will see curbs on holidays and larger gatherings lifted on May 17, with all indicators suggesting this will still go ahead.

The Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab has also suggested 'some safeguards' such as wearing face masks and social distancing, will have to stay in place beyond June 21.

Government advisers said last month that face masks could be dumped over the summer as the vaccines do the heavy lifting in controlling Covid.

But they cautioned that masks and possibly other measures may be needed next Autumn and Winter should cases pick up again.

Covid infection rates across the UK in the week to April 27, the latest available. Department of Health statistics showed nine in ten councils saw their cases fall throughout April. The highest infection rate was in Selby, North Yorkshire

Almost 60 per cent of Britain would now be on the original 'green list' permitting travellers to return from abroad without facing burdensome self-isolation requirements, official Covid figures revealed today.

Department of Health statistics showed 218 of 380 councils had a coronavirus infection rate below 20 cases per 100,000 in the week to April 27, the latest available.

Last summer ministers slapped arduous 14-day quarantine requirements on travellers arriving from countries with infection rates above that level. The self-isolation period for all foreign travel has now been shortened to ten days but holidays abroad are still banned until at least May 17.

Figures also showed nine in ten local authorities saw their outbreaks shrink in April. Only Selby in North Yorkshire now has an infection rate above 100 per 100,000. For comparison, there were 23 authorities above that level at the end of March.

Experts said all figures were looking 'very optimistic', suggesting Britain was 'over the worst' of the pandemic and would never again see the spiralling Covid deaths and hospitalisations as in the darkest days of January because of the mammoth vaccination roll-out. More than 50million jabs have now been dished out.
A top drug baron who was El Chapo's right-hand man and co-founded the feared Sinaloa cartel could be freed after a Mexican judge absolved him of organised crime charges.

Hector 'El Guero' Palma Salazar, 80, will be released if no other court decides to bring charges against him for separate crimes in the next week.

The 80-year-old drug lord has been held at Mexico's Altiplano prison since 2016, when he was released from jail in the US nearly a decade inside, transferred to Mexican authorities, and arrested.

He was charged over two 1995 murders in the Pacific coast state of Nayarit on his return but was never properly prosecuted for the alleged crimes.

Top drug baron Hector 'El Guero' Palma Salazar, 80, could be released from jail after a Mexican judge absolved him of organised crime charges, five years after he was taken into custody in 2016 (pictured)

After his 2016 release from prison in the US, Salazar was transferred in to Mexican authorities' custody at the border in Brownsville, Texas and and Matamoros, Mexico

Salazar was cleared of the most recent charges in a memorandum by Mexico's Second District Court of Federal Criminal Proceedings on Saturday.

Mexico's foreign ministry said it had also asked the US government to check for an outstanding extradition request for Salazar before his release.

They added that the prosecutor's offices in all 32 Mexican state are currently checking if they have any outstanding charges against Salazar, whose nickname means 'Blondie' in English.

In Mexican authorities' custody, Salazar was charged over two 1995 murders in the Pacific coast state of Nayarit but was never properly prosecuted for the alleged crimes

Salazar was extradited to the US in 2007 (pictured) and jailed for 16 years on drug trafficking charges. He was released for good behaviour in 2016 after serving nine years

Salazar was first arrested in Arizona in 1978 for trafficking cocaine and was sentenced to eight years in prison.

On his release, Palma returned to Mexico and started working for the fear Sinaloa drug cartel alongside Joaquin Guzman Loera - 'El Chapo'.

Salazar was a top associate of Guzman, the Sinaloa kingpin who gained international attention when he famously escaped from Altiplano prison in 2015 and later met with actor Sean Penn while he was on the run.

Guzman escaped his prison cell through a well-constructed, mile-long tunnel that led from his shower block to a house, sparking a massive manhunt that ended with his arrest in the northern state of Sinaloa in January 2015.

Under the pair's leadership, the Sinaloa cartel became the most powerful in Mexico.

The United States Attorney General's office estimates that the cartel trafficked 200 Tons (400,000lbs) of cocaine into the US between 1990-2008.

Salazar was the right-hand man of Mexican drug lord Joaquin 'El Chapo' Guzman, who was arrested in 2014 (pictured, El Chapo is escorted by US law enforcement in 2017)

Salazar was arrested for the second time by Mexican authorities in June 1995 after his private jet crashed while en route to a wedding. It was claimed he initially evaded authorities by dressing in a police uniform, but was eventually taken into custody.

He was extradited to the US in 2007, pleaded guilty to transporting 50kg (110lbs) of cocaine and was sentenced to 16 years in Atwater high-security federal prison in California.

He was cleared of nine counts of murder, plus charges of kidnapping and robbery.

The embassy said he was returned to Mexico yesterday after serving nine years because of good behavior and the five years he spent in a Mexican prison while waiting for extradition, which counted as time served.

According to Mexican media, Salazar's wife was murdered by rivals who sent him her severed head inside a box. His two young children were also killed by being thrown off a bridge in Venezuela.

He reportedly spent more than $400,000 to build an elaborate tomb for his late wife.
Congress party candidate D Rajshekar Reddy won by a margin of 1,200 votes over his nearest rival, Akhil Goud of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). (Photo: Twitter @UttamTPCC)

Hyderabad: The Congress won the byelection to the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) Lingojiguda ward on Monday. The party candidate D Rajshekar Reddy won by a margin of 1,200 votes over his nearest rival, Akhil Goud of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). After registering the victory, Reddy was congratulated by party working president A Revanth Reddy at his Banjara Hills residence.

The Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) did not contest the election as a delegation led by BJP city president N Ramchander Rao requested the working president to support the saffron party candidate on humanitarian grounds. The votes were counted on Friday at the Victoria Memorial Home School in Kothapet. The ward had a total electorate of 47,379 out of which 13,591 cast their votes.

The bypoll was necessitated following the demise of corporator-elect Akula Ramesh Goud who contested on behalf of the BJP in the GHMC elections held in December 2020.
A professional runner shared on Twitter that she was yelled at for not wearing a mask while running past someone outside.

Amelia Boone, who won the Spartan Race World Championship in 2013, shared the incident in a tweet thread on April 25. The race's obstacle course includes the spartan throw, barbed-wire crawl and the wall climb.

'Today I got yelled at on my run for passing by someone and not pulling a buff/mask up. If it was April, 2020, I'm with you,' she wrote.

'But now that we have a good idea how COVID spreads, I think it's time we normalize not wearing masks outside.'

Boone, who says she is fully vaccinated, wrote that she is 'absolutely 100% pro mask' and will likely 'continue wearing them on planes indefinitely, for example'.

Amelia Boone (pictured), a world champion obstacle racer, shared that she was yelled at on April 25 while not wearing a mask on her run outside

'Today I got yelled at on my run for passing by someone and not pulling a buff/mask up. If it was April, 2020, I'm with you,' she wrote. 'But now that we have a good idea how COVID spreads, I think it's time we normalize not wearing masks outside'

'Im all for courtesy. But our county lifted the outdoor mask order and science just doesnt support it,' she added.

And she's right. Last week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced that fully vaccinated Americans can now safely go without masks outside.

'If you are fully vaccinated, things are much safer for you,' said CDC Director Dr Rochelle Walensky during a Tuesday White House press briefing.

'There are many situations in which Americans do not need to wear masks if they are fully vaccinated, particularly outdoors.'

As long as they are outside, people who are fully vaccinated can now exercise, go to small gatherings or restaurants with people who are vaccinated or unvaccinated.

It comes amid mounting evidence - finally acknowledged by the CDC on Tuesday - that outdoor transmission of coronavirus is exceedingly rare, accounting for less than 10 per cent of cases.

Those risks are mainly linked to crowded events that can turn into super-spreader events, or people who were in close range of one another.

However, in crowded places like concerts, parades or sporting events, even vaccinated people should still wear masks, the CDC's new guidance says.

The CDC's Recommendations for Outdoor Activities The data on outdoor transmission of COVID- although somewhat limited - suggests it is rare. The odds of catching coronavirus outside are about 19 times lower than they are indoors, according to a large review of research, and health officials like Dr Anthony Fauci and the CDC have acknowledged that the risk of catching or spreading COVID outside, especially after vaccination, is low. In aggregate, a Journal of Infectious Diseases study found that outdoor transmission accounts for only about 10 percent of transmissions. One of the five found that just two out of 7,324 cases were the result of outdoor transmission. A second found four out of 103 infections had been contracted outside, and a third found 95 instances of outdoor spread in 10,926 infections. The risk varies depending on what outdoor activities are involved however. One of the studies found that one in seven super-spreader events had been outdoors. Overarchingly, the takeaway from these studies seems to be that if your contact is close enough, transmission can happen anywhere. But if you're outside, and not in a tightly-packed crowd, the odds of contracting coronavirus appear minimal. Unvaccinated people can shed their masks too, if they are outside exercising or at small outdoor gatherings with vaccinated friends and families. CDC's Recommendations for Outdoor Activities Fully vaccinated people can participate in many outdoor activities without a mask at low risk to themselves or to others. While generally safe for vaccinated people to be outdoors without a mask, CDC continues to recommend requiring masking in crowded settings and venues where there is a decreased ability to maintain physical distance until widespread vaccination coverage is achieved. Although the risk of COVID-19 spread is low in outdoor settings, especially among those who are vaccinated, the following factors could increase risk: 1. A moderate, substantial, or high level of community transmission 2. Settings with a higher percentage of unvaccinated people (including children) present or people at risk of severe COVID-19 disease 3. The length of the visit 4. Crowding or when there is a decreased ability to maintain physical distance 5. Activities that involve behaviors such as singing, shouting, physical exertion or heavy breathing, inability to wear a mask, or inability to maintain physical distancing Advertisement

The guidance is merely that - advice about what the health agency has deemed safe - and is not enforceable. It's up to states, counties and cities to issue mask mandates and other restrictions.

Several states, including Massachusetts and Kentucky rolled back their guidelines on mask-wearing outdoors last week, in anticipation of the update to the guidelines.

In Connecticut, COVID restrictions will end on May 19, but Governor Ned Lamont is advising people to still wear masks indoors.

New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio announced last week that the Big Apple would fully reopen on July 1. His announcement was followed by Gov Andrew Cuomo who said the state's bars and restaurants can increase their capacity beginning May 7.

In Colorado, where Boone resides, Gov Jared Polis announced Sunday that the indoor mask order remains in effect for all schools statewide and certain other settings.

For counties with greater than 35 cases per 100,000 people, the indoor mask order applies to groups of ten or more unvaccinated people indoors and there remains no outdoor mask order.

The order was also amended to allow indoor spaces where more than 10 people are present to go without masks, so long as at least 80 per cent of those individuals are fully vaccinated.

Unvaccinated people can shed their masks too, if they are outside exercising or at small outdoor gatherings with vaccinated friends and families.

Officials had faced scrutiny over saying that the risk of transmission of coronavirus is extremely low outside, while continuing to tell unvaccinated people to keep their masks on while outdoors.

'There is increasing data that suggests that most of transmission is happening indoors rather than outdoors, less than 10 per cent of documented transmissions in many studies have occurred outdoors, we also know there's almost a 20-fold increase of transmission in the indoor setting versus the outdoor setting,' Walensky explained.

'That coupled with the fact that we now have 37 per cent over the age of 18 fully vaccinated and the fact that case rates now are starting to come down motivated our change.'

As of Monday morning, 44.3 per cent of the American population has received one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.

Only 31.6 per cent of the population are fully vaccinated.
Erica Whittingham, 33, is accused of helping Michael Seddon (pictured) escape from HMP Sudbury and assisting him while on the run

A female prison officer has been charged with helping an inmate escape from a Derbyshire jail and having a relationship with him.

Erica Whittingham appeared at Derby Crown Court to face two charges relating to the alleged offences.

The prosecution claim she formed a relationship with convicted robber Michael Seddon while she was working at HMP Sudbury where he was serving his sentence.

They then claim the 33-year-old helped him escape and assisted him while he was on the run for almost six months.

Whittingham, of Bramshall, Uttoxeter, denies the charges.

Adjourning the case to trial, Recorder Adrian Reynolds told her: 'What I would like to say to you and this is very much customised to this case is that I appreciate what a difficult position you are in.'

Whittingham faces two charges.

The first is helping Seddon to escape from HMP Sudbury on October 1, 2019 and harbouring him until March 18, 2020 in Lincolnshire, Greater Manchester, Merseyside and Oxford.

And the second is wilful misconduct in a judicial position in that as a prison officer at HMP Sudbury she had a relationship with Seddon between January 8, 2017 and October 3, 2019.

Prosecutors claim Whittingham was in a relationship with inmate Michael Seddon while working at HMP Sudbury (pictured) where he was serving his sentence for a violent robbery

The defendant pleaded not guilty when she appeared in person at Derby Crown Court.

Recorder Reynolds set the trail date to the week commencing July 25, 2022 and handed Whittingham unconditional bail.

Derbyshire Police released a media appeal when Seddon escaped from HMP Sudbury in October 2019.

In it they said the then 30-year-old was last seen at the open prison at 9pm that evening and that he was convicted of robbery at Bournemouth Crown Court in November 2011.

That hearing heard how he was one of four men found guilty of the robbery of a 78-year-old man at his home in Dorset.

The victim, a farmer, was tied up, beaten and threatened during a two-hour ordeal and Seddon, then 22 and of Bootle, Merseyside, was handed an indeterminate prison sentence for public protection.
A hero South African guard has been caught on dashcam footage fighting off a gang of armed robbers who sprayed his security vehicle with over thirty bullets in a bid to kill him, before he turned the tables on them by chasing them off at gunpoint.

Former police sniper Leo Prinsloo, 48, was escorting a high value cargo in his unmarked armoured Toyota Land Cruiser when he was ambushed by two cars full of gunmen.

A dozen shots at least are first heard as one car pulls alongside security expert Leo on the N4 motorway in capital Pretoria, opening fire and finally shattering his bullet proof window.

Former police sniper Leo Prinsloo, 48, was escorting a high value cargo in an armoured truck in his unmarked armoured Toyota Land Cruiser when he was ambushed by two cars full of gunmen

A dozen shots at least are first heard as one car pulls alongside security expert Leo on the N4 motorway in capital Pretoria. The targeted vehicle is pictured, above and below

Incredibly Leo  who was with the South African Police Services special forces unit for 12 years and teaches their military special forces to shoot  remains remarkably calm under attack

Incredibly Leo  who was with the South African Police Services special forces unit for 12 years and teaches their military special forces to shoot  remains remarkably calm under attack.

He tells his fellow security guard to cock his automatic rifle and hits the accelerator as his attackers try to kill him so they can target the armoured car in front.

The other car full of gunmen then try from the other side and fire at least 13 shots into the vehicle but expert marksman and highly trained sniper Leo remains unperturbed.

The chasing cars try to force him to stop and fire shots into the windscreen but Leo simply rams straight into them.

The other car full of gunmen fired at least 13 shots into the vehicle but expert marksman and highly trained sniper Leo remained unperturbed. His vehicle is pictured above after the attack

When the other cars try again he rams them as well then decides on a change of tactics.

A security friend of the hero said: 'Leo got fed up with the one-way traffic of bullets and hit the brakes and told his colleague to hand him an automatic rifle, released his seat belt and got out.

'He had enough of being a sitting duck and decided to take the fight to the armed robbers and was not going to go down without a fight. He is an expert shot and wanted to give a little bit back.

'When they saw Leo get out with his automatic rifle in a bullet proof vest and kneeling down to take aim they decided they had had enough and gave it up and the two cars made their escape.

'You can see from the dashcam that from start to finish he hardly bats an eyelid but is constantly aware of where they are and doesn't flinch when they open fire on him and does his job perfectly

The chasing cars try to force him to stop and fires shots into the windscreen but Leo simply rams straight into them

Mr Prinsloo, pictured above, has a shooting academy called The Edge and trains police, military and security companies in shooting and unarmed combat and how to react to being under attack

'Eventually he gets bored and decides it is time to return fire  the man is a hero. You see this sort of Chuck Norris stuff all the time in the movies but this was for real and Leo took the fight to them.'

Mr Prinsloo has a shooting academy called The Edge and trains police, military and security companies in shooting and unarmed combat and how to react to being under attack. He is said to be the best in the business.

His friend said: 'This video just shows Leo not only teaches but practices what he preaches. He is a real-life Rambo and has never showed any fear in his life. He is a trained sniper and never misses.'

Firearms expert Leo said: 'I cannot say much as an investigation is underway but I and my fellow guard did what was expected of us. They needed to take us out so they could take out the cargo vehicle.

'But there was no way I was going to let that happen and unfortunately I did not have a chance to return fire.'

Police spokesman Brigadier Vish Naidoo said: 'The suspects in two cars fired many shots at a security vehicle in a convoy in an attempt to stop it during a high-speed chase in Pretoria.

'The driver of the vehicle managed to evade the robbers but later stopped and got out to wait for the robbers but they fled instead. No arrests have been made as of yet.'
A suspected Mexican drug lord's son who helped jail 'El Chapo' for life has been freed from a US jail, with officials refusing to say if he is now in witness protection.

Vicente 'El Vicentillo' Zambada was recently freed early from a 15-year sentence handed out a Chicago judge in May 2019. He was punished after admitting to helping plot kidnappings and murders, bribing officials in Mexico and shipping tons of drugs to the United States for the Sinaloa Cartel.

Zambada's uncle, Jesus Zambada, also has been released from jail, according United States Bureau of Prisons (BOP). Zambada's father Ismael 'El Mayo' Zambada is also accused of being a drug lord, and remains at large with a $30 million reward for his capture.

The federal agency, Univision reported, refused to confirm or deny whether both individuals were under the protective custody of law enforcement and did not provide a date and reason for their release.

'The BOP does not provide additional information on inmates who are not in the custody of the BOP or who have been released from the custody of the BOP,' BOP spokesman Emory Nelson told the network.

No further information on the men's whereabouts has been given. But their decision to turn on infamous drug lord El Chapo - full name Joaquin Guzman - means they will likely have to go into hiding for the rest of their lives to escape revenge from Guzman's associates, many of whom remain loyal to the fallen cartel boss.

Vicente 'El Vicentillo' Zambada, pictured in Mexico City in 2009, helped put infamous drug lord El Chapo away for life. He has been freed from a US prison, but a spokesman refused to say whether he was in protective custody

Mexican drug lord Joaquin 'El Chapo' Guzman after arriving in New York on January 19, 2017 after his extradition from Mexico. He was jailed for life in February 2019, and now languishes at the notorious ADX Florence 'supermax' prison in Colorado

Vicente Zambada had been scheduled for a 2022 prison release as part of a reduced sentenced for his cooperation in El Chapo's trial and would have had his name changed as a protected witness.

'The Marshals Service does not confirm or deny any information about anyone who may or may not participate in the Witness Security Program,' US Marshals spokesman James P. Stossel told Univision on Friday. 'We also do not provide details on prisoner movements.'

Zambada, the son of fugitive cartel leader Ismael 'El Mayo' Zambada, kept a low profile that has shielded him from ever being arrested

But he turned on the organization that his father co-founded with El Chapo after detectives caught up with him in Mexico in March 2009, He was arrested and extradited to Chicago in February 2010, and admitted a host of crimes in 2013.

The 46-year-old had been entrenched in the transnational criminal organization since his teenage years and rose to the top, coordinating the shipments of drugs from South America.

Vicente Zambada set up shop in the Mexican province of Sinaloa and directed the distribution of narcotics to the Unites States.

He was detained by police at a Mexico City hotel following a meeting with Drug Enforcement Administration agents. He challenged U.S. prosecutors in court by arguing that the DEA agents had promised him immunity in exchange for turning on the powerful cartel.

The United States Department of Justice is offering a reward of $5million for information leading to the arrest of Ismael 'El Mayo' Zambada-Garcia, co-founder of the Sinaloa Cartel

Vicente 'El Vicentillo' Zambada is pictured testifying against Guzman on January 3, 2019 in Brooklyn

Zambada eventually turned on his father, El Chapo and the Sinaloa Cartel in 2011 and provided authorities valuable information regarding the organization's drug smuggling routes and criminal ties. He pleaded guilty on April 3, 2013.

On January 3, 2019, Zambada appeared in the stand for almost six hours during El Chapo's high-profile trial in New York and offered information on how the cartel laundered money and how El Chapo and his father used submarines, trains, airplanes and vehicles to traffic drugs.

Zambada told the court the cartel had a stash meant only to pay at least $1 million a month in bribes to authorities in Mexico.

Jesus Zambada, the brother of Sinaloa Cartel leader Ismael 'El Mayo' Zambada was released from a U.S. prison recently

He also said the current president of Honduras, Juan Orlando Hernandez, and his brother, Juan Antonio Hernandez, were bribed with a $1 million in exchange for allowing the Sinaloa Cartel to operate in the Central American country.

El Chapo, who was extradited from Mexico to New York in January 2017, was convicted on 10 counts in February 2019. The federal jury found him guilty of drug trafficking, murder conspiracy, use of a gun in crimes involving drugs and money laundering. He was convicted in July 2019 to life in prison plus 30 years.

He is being held at ADX Florence, a supermax prison in Florence, Colorado, that is home to some of America's most notorious criminals, including 'Unabomber' Ted Kaczynski, Boston Marathon bomber Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, 9/11 conspirator Zacarias Moussaoui and 1993 World Trade Center bomber Ramzi Yousef
Paul Gosar climbed part of the southern border wall  and posted a picture to Twitter  to show how effective it is at keeping illegal immigrants out.

'When President Trump said the people's wall would be big and beautiful he wasn't kidding,' the Arizona congressman tweeted Sunday. 'I climbed a gate just to show perspective.'

'Let's finish the dang wall,' Gosar added.

The post came from his personal Twitter account, where the last thing he posted was a demand that President Joe Biden take in illegal immigrants to Delaware instead of releasing them into southern border states.

'Another day, another 50 illegals being released into Yuma,' Gosar wrote in a March tweet. '[Biden] why don't you send some to your hometown of Wilmington, DE?'

Biden immediately signed an executive order upon taking office on January 20 freezing construction of Trumps wall  a move many claim is illegal considering Pentagon funds have already been appropriated by Congress for the project.

Representative Paul Gosar (pictured climbing the wall above) posted an image to Twitter Sunday of him scaling part of the border wall to exhibit how tall and effective it is at keeping illegal immigrants out

Along with the image, the Arizona Republican congressman tweeted: 'Let's finish the dang wall'

President Joe Biden signed an executive order on Day One freezing construction of the border wall, but recently reports indicate he could restart the project after gaps reveal weaknesses where illegal immigrants can more easily cross

Here Central American immigrants walk between a gap in the fence from Mexico into El Paso, Texas on February 1, 2019

Gosar is a staunch Trump ally and is one of the Republican representatives who is hardest pushing that the 2020 presidential election was stolen.

He is also critical of the administration's handling of the illegal immigration surge since Biden took office and complains Vice President Kamala Harris is not doing enough in her capacity as 'border czar.'

The White House announced 40 days ago that Harris would be put in charge of the response to the border crisis, later clarifying her role is to address 'root causes' in Central Americans countries that lead to citizens fleeing to the U.S.

'She clearly tackled the border issue with ease. Why not assign her outer space?' Gosar posted from his congressional Twitter account on Monday regarding news Harris will chair the National Space Council.

Some reports indicate Biden has floated resuming construction on parts of the wall where there are gaps that allow migrants to more easily cross the border.

Donald Trump visited the wall toward the end of his administration to celebrate 400 miles of wall completed during his four years in office

Trump lauded before leaving office that more than 400 miles of border wall were constructed during his presidency. He visited the border shortly before leaving office to celebrate the milestone and survey the progress.

The border wall was one of Trump's biggest campaign promises to increase national security and crack down on illegal immigration, human and drug trafficking and other crime at the southern border.

Biden's administration announced Monday it will start the reunification process for migrant families separated as part of former President Trump 's zero-tolerance policies against illegal immigration.

Over the weekend, a group of migrant children started arriving at the Pomona Fairplex fairgrounds in southern California, which the administration set up as temporary housing for unaccompanied minors who arrived at the U.S.-Mexico border.

Officials say these children, ranging in age from 7 to 14, will remain at the site until they can be reunited with family or placed with sponsors.

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said in a call Sunday night that four families of the estimated 1,000 that remain separated will be reunited this week.

Two of the four include mothers  one Mexican and one Honduran  who were separated from their children in 2017, Mayorkas detailed without providing their identities. He described the range of children from 3-years-old at the time of separation to 'teenagers who have had to live without their parent during their most formative years.'

Joe Biden's administration will begin reuniting families this week who were separated when crossing the border under Donald Trump's 'zero tolerance' immigration policies. Here an immigrant mother carries her children into the U.S. after crossing illegally from Mexico

Four of the 1,000 families who remain separated will be reunited this week as Biden's Family Reunification Task Force charges forward with starting the process. Pictured: Migrant families overcrowded in a U.S. border facility in McAllen, Texas in June 2019

'The Family Reunification Task Force has been working day and night, across the federal government and with counsel for the families and our foreign partners, to address the prior administration's cruel separation of children from their parents,' Mayorkas said in a statement announcing the family reunification.

'Today is just the beginning,' he added. 'We are reuniting the first group of families, many more will follow, and we recognize the importance of providing these families with the stability and resources they need to heal.'

It is not immediately clear how DHS selected these four families to be reunited first and the agency has not yet responded to a request for more information from DailyMail.com.

The president promised during his campaign that he would reunite families separated after crossing the border and created a task force shortly after taking office dedicated to reunification.

The Pomona Fairplex fairgrounds in Los Angeles opened its doors to temporarily house unaccompanied minors apprehended at the border

The Fairplex can house up to 2,500 minors

Mayorkas, who heads the task force on reuniting separated families, told reporters Sunday: 'Our team is dedicated to finding every family and giving them an opportunity to reunite and heal.'

'We continue to work tirelessly to reunite many more children with their parents in the weeks and months ahead,' he said during the call. 'We have a lot of work still to do, but I am proud of the progress we have made and the reunifications that we have helped to achieve this week.'

The administration's Family Reunification Task Force Executive Director Michelle Brane said the parents will return to the U.S. on humanitarian parole as authorities consider longer-term legal status.

Under Trump's policies, families arriving at the border were separated into different facilities, upon which time most parents and adults were deported, while children were kept in federal custody.

Now, Biden will begin the process of allowing parents who were previously deported to return to the U.S. to be with their children.

Starting in the summer of 2017, Trump implemented 'zero-tolerance' policies to easier criminally prosecute illegal immigrants, which led to more than 5,000 children being separated from their parents. The practices officially ended by court order in June 2018.

Brane believes there are still 1,000 families who are separated.

Despite the reunification process kicking off this week, the Biden administration is still facing its biggest issues at the southern border.

In recent months, Biden has seen record-numbers of illegal immigrants crossing as he vowed during his campaign all asylum-seekers would have a place in the U.S.

There are also tens of thousands of unaccompanied minor children in federal custody after public messaging from the White House promised not to turn away any children arriving at the border without an adult.

The new Pomona Fairplex migrant holding facility has a capacity to hold 2,500 children. The new measure comes after the Long Beach Convention Center in Los Angeles also opened its doors to house unaccompanied minors.

'These children as you know have endured abuse, persecution, deep poverty, and violence and they are simply seeking refuge,' LA County Board of Supervisors Chair Hilda L. Solis said Thursday, according to KTLA.

The Pomona and Long Beach centers are meant as a temporary means to house the hundreds of minor migrants apprehended every day at the southern border without an adult accompanying them.

Migrants from Northern Triangle countries continue to take dangerous measures to get into the U.S.

Four people were killed and more than two dozen others were hospitalized Sunday after a boat capsized and broke apart in rough water just off the San Diego coast during a suspected human smuggling operation, authorities said.

Smugglers continue dangerous tactics to get immigrants to the U.S. Four people were killed and nearly two dozen others were hospitalized after a boat capsized Sunday just off the San Diego coast

The image above shows debris washing ashore just off the coast of San Diego on Sunday

Video footage shot by horrified beachgoers shows the boat tipping over in the water before breaking apart as it was battered by the waves and rocks.

Lifeguards, the U.S. Coast Guard and other agencies responded around 10 a.m. following reports of an overturned vessel in the waves near the rugged peninsula of Point Loma, according to the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department.

The original call was for a handful of people overboard but as rescuers arrived in boats and jet skis they quickly realized 'it was going to be a bigger situation with more people,' said San Diego Lifeguard Services Lt. Rick Romero.

'There are people in the water, drowning, getting sucked out the rip current there,' he said. 'Once we arrived on scene, the boat had basically been broken apart. Conditions were pretty rough: 5 to 6 feet of surf, windy, cold.'
Asian grooming gangs trafficked underage girls into Birmingham and abused them for decades despite being reported to police, according to one survivor.

Sarah, whose name has been changed to protect her identity, says she reported the names of her various abusers to Derbyshire Police in 2012.

But she says none of the offenders have ever been brought to justice in the same way similar gangs were in Telford and Rotherham.

A gang of six men was jailed in 2018 for a total of 101 years after sexually exploiting five vulnerable teenage girls in Rotherham between 1998 and 2005. The gang members - all Asian men from Sheffield and Rotherham - were convicted of offences including rape and indecent assault.

Sarah has revealed that she was abused by predatory gangs when she was a runaway from care homes in Derby in the early 2000s.

Sarah (stock photo), whose name has been changed to protect her identity, says she reported the names of her various abusers to Derbyshire Police in 2012 but none of the offenders have been brought to justice in the same way similar gangs were in Telford and Rotherham

She said Asian men of Pakistani heritage would regularly take her and friends from care homes to Birmingham where she was plied with drink and drugs and abused.

In one incident, she claims West Midlands Police officers stopped a car she was in with a group of abusers and another girl.

Despite taking the underage youngsters' names and ages she says she was allowed on her way with the gang.

Sarah said: 'Birmingham police stopped the car and took mine and my friend's names and the men's names. I was really scared as I didn't know what was going to happen but the police just let us drive off.

'When we later got back to my care home the staff told me the police had rung and said we'd been stopped with really dangerous men. I thought, ''Well if they were that dangerous why did you leave us with them?''

Sarah says she was extensively groomed and abused in Derby and later repeatedly trafficked between Derby, Birmingham and Bradford by men from Birmingham and Derby.

She said: 'I gave Derby police my Birmingham offenders' names - but no one has ever been charged.

'I know of lots of Derby girls who were groomed in Birmingham, I don't know why we don't see high profile grooming cases in court in Birmingham like we have seen elsewhere in the country.'

Sarah, whose name has been changed to protect her identity, says she reported the names of her various abusers to Derbyshire Police in 2012 but none of the offenders have been brought to justice

She added: 'I was groomed and abused between 1999 and 2003. And I was really horrendously groomed in Birmingham. It wasn't just me, lots of girls, and lots of girls I know, were taken from Derby to be abused in Birmingham.'

Sarah said she has been awarded more than 150,000 after suing two councils recently for failing to protect her while she was in the care system.

She said: 'My care files are full of references to the abuse, the care home staff would note down who I went off with, who dropped me off, they'd note down men's number plates.

'What I found the most awful thing of all was that I was really badly blamed and I was scapegoated. Social services actually wrote down that I was the main player in my own abuse by the grooming gangs - I was just 14...

'My children's home knew all about it, they'd seen [my abuser] drop me off, pick me up, they weren't bothered. I would say he was probably about in his 30s.'

She added: 'I made lots of statements about Derby men and Birmingham men. Nothing happened at all. They said they'd spoken to some other girls, and that was it, nothing was going ahead. And I was really mentally ill at the time.

'So just more recently some other girls have come forward and the police have contacted me but I can't trust them at all because the men are so dangerous and the police, they've been so awful to me.'

She said: 'I know it sounds stupid but I'd gone from being nothing and no one at all to being like a junkie's daughter who stands on the corner, a waste of taxpayers' money to just being another kid who's then pushed around to like every single person, to everywhere I went in certain Asian areas in Birmingham and Derby, people noticing me.

'I was being bought things and given drugs, alcohol, it sounds awful but it was almost like I felt like I was part of the gang, even though I wasn't.'

A breakthrough did come in 2011 when Operation Retriever in Derby led to the conviction of nine men for multiple offences ranging from rape to intimidating witnesses. Their victims totalled 27 teenage girls.

So-called ringleaders Mohammed Liaqat, then aged 28, and Abid Saddique, then aged 27, were found guilty of charges including rape. Saddique was jailed for at least 11 years and Liaqat for a minimum of eight.

Ironically Operation Retriever was sparked after Staffordshire police pulled over three men and were concerned to see two young teenagers with them. They had been reported missing from a care home in Derby.

On that occasion, the officers drove the girls back to Derby and it was during that journey that they disclosed why they had been with the men. Staffordshire Police shared the information with Derbyshire officers and soon after Operation Retriever began which saw suspects put under surveillance.

Sarah believes police were aware of grooming in Derby almost a full decade before Operation Retriever launched.

'They did Operation Glint and I think that was in 2001,' she said.

'It was an undercover operation surrounding me and another girl. It's mentioned in my care records which show that police watched and saw that we were getting in taxis with men and getting dropped off, but they (police) didn't do anything.

'My care records note that the operation was supposed to run for two weeks but the records say it they did only two days. So they had known about this a lot longer and it's not come out how long they did know.'

Sarah says she met with the Children's Commissioner who told her about Operation Glint, 'so she would know how far back grooming in the city went'.

But she remains without justice.

Derbyshire Police said: 'We did receive an allegation from this particular victim but unfortunately at the time, officers were unable to gather enough evidence to secure a prosecution.

'As part of our inquiries, our officers did liaise with another local police force to share relevant information.

'We welcome any new information which would allow us to carry out further investigations in this case and would urge anyone with information to come forward and speak to us.

'We will always investigate and take reports of this nature seriously.'

On the historical Operation Glint, Derbyshire Police confirmed: 'We did run an operation into child sexual exploitation, known as Operation Glint. It isn't unusual for forces to run operations in this area as we look to safeguard vulnerable victims and identify offenders.'

The force claimed the operation lasted two weeks.
Britain vaccinated people faster against Covid than EU countries because it is free of Brussels' bureaucracy, the bloc's chief negotiator has admitted.

Michel Barnier, 70, said that ideology, red tape and an aversion to risk-taking led Europe to bungle its early vaccination drive - with just 24 per cent of the continent's population given at least one vaccine up to now, compared to 50 per cent in the UK.

He said lessons should be learned from the current crisis, including whether more powers should be given to countries to make decisions independent of Brussels.

But he added that it is still 'too early to tell' which countries have coped best with the pandemic, and insisted there is little to be gained from games of 'one-upmanship'.

Michel Barnier admitted today that red tape, ideology and an aversion to risk-taking within the EU had hurt the continent's vaccine roll-out

Speaking to France Inter, Mr Barnier said: 'I recognise that there were administrative problems, bureaucracy [within the EU].

'There was an almost ideological mistrust of public-private partnerships. We dont know how to take risks.

'The British took risks by financing the private sector. The Americans took risks. We dont know how to do that yet.'

He added that 'lessons' should be learned from the current crisis, including whether countries could be given more powers to act independently of Brussels in the future because independent nations are capable of moving quicker than blocs.

But he continued to insist that signing vaccine contracts outside the EU would have been a bad idea, because it would have meant smaller countries getting left behind.

'That is not, in my view, the philosophy of the EU,' he added.

Mr Barnier was speaking ahead of the release of his book - Le Grand Illusion - about four years spent negotiating with the UK government over Brexit.

He spoke at length about the upcoming election in France and Marine Le Pen's challenge to President Macron as she gains on him in the polls.

Barnier said he will be active during the campaign season, vowing to defeat Ms Le Pen, who he said is in league with Nigel Farage and Matteo Salvini - the Italian Lega Nord party leader - in trying to bring down the EU.

Europe has given just 25 per cent of its population at least one dose of Covid vaccine, while the UK is at 50 per cent (pictured, Covid vaccines are given out in France)

Ms Le Pen campaigned openly for a French exit from the EU during the 2017 election that she lost to Macron, but has since dropped the issue - at least in public.

Asked whether there are any lessons to be learned from Brexit that could help Macron's chances, he said 'less bureaucracy in Brussels' is essential and called for leaders to 'demonstrate the added value of the European project'.

Pressed on what those benefits are, Mr Michel responded that the EU will allow nations to preserve decision-making in Europe, rather than being dictated to by other world superpowers.

'[The EU] is vital for us if we dont want to be dependent and subcontractors to America or China,' he said.

'I dont want my childrens future to be decided in Washington or Pekin.'

Asked for his opinions on Boris Johnson, Mr Bariner added: 'He clearly has intelligence, he is quite cordial, warm, very pragmatic.

'I think he needs a bit more time to demonstrate his qualities as a statesman but he clearly has intelligence as a government man, even if I found some of his comments as foreign minister curious.'

The UK has given more than half its total population at least one dose of Covid vaccine having secured supplies early and extended the time between first and second doses to 12 weeks, allowing its initial drive to take off at blistering pace.

As a result of the vaccine drive, the UK has begun easing lockdown with outdoor pubs and restaurants allowed to open (pictured) - while lockdowns have been tightened in Europe

As a result, Covid cases have fallen to some of the lowest levels seen since the pandemic began, and deaths have slowed to a trickle.

Schools, workplaces, non-essential retail and gyms have been allowed to reopen, while bars and restaurants are able to serve people outside.

The next round of easing is due on May 19 when socialising indoors will be permitted, with most measures to be dropped by June 21.

By comparsion, Europe has jabbed just 25 per cent of its total population after late orders, red tape and cautious regulation of jabs slowed the drive down.

The continent is starting to catch up, with the likes of Germany and Spain now vaccinating more people per day than the UK, though only by a slim margin.

As a result, the continent has been left vulnerable to a third wave of the virus that has seen lockdowns tighten in countries such as Germany and France even as measures in the UK have been eased.

European leaders still insist that they are on course to reach herd immunity - with at least 70 per cent of the population vaccinated - by the end of summer.

The UK government says all adults will have been offered a jab by the end of June.
Police in Ohio's capital city have been ordered to stop using tear gas, pepper spray and rubber bullets against nonviolent protesters after a federal judge ruled officers ran 'amok' last year during BLM protests.

The protests convulsed the Midwestern city last summer as some descended into rioting - with businesses vandalized and looted and violence to such a degree that the city's mayor called a curfew that lasted for six nights.

The governor also called in the National Guard to deal with the violence, which included rioters throwing things at the police.

Still, Judge Algenon Marbley issued an 88-page opinion on Friday describing the actions of Columbus police during last summer's protests as 'the sad tale of officers, clothed with the awesome power of the state, run amok'.

Columbus Police have been in the spotlight of late after an officer shot dead 16-year-old Ma'Khia Bryant last month after body cam footage showed her attempting to stab two woman moments earlier.

Marbley's ruling was in response to a federal lawsuit filed by 26 protesters who argued they were targeted by police without provocation starting last May as they protested the police killing of George Floyd.

Judge Algenon Marbley issued an 88-page opinion on Friday saying Columbus Police 'ran amok' during last year's BLM protests

Many of the protests were peaceful, according to city and state officials. And Deputy Columbus Police Chief Jennifer Knight even marched with protesters in a rally last June

In his preliminary injunction, Marbley ruled in favor of the protesters, saying that most participants were peacefully protesting or observing when they fell victim to such nonlethal responses by officers.

'Many of these instances of force were without provocation or applied at random and indiscriminately,' Marbley wrote.

'There is a mountain of evidence that some protestors were confronted with less-lethal munitions while trying to follow police orders to leave the demonstrations.'

Gov. Mike DeWine, a Republican, said at the time that during the summer protests, rioters had tried to break and vandalize city property, set fire to buildings and vehicles and broke into businesses.

'Our city has had enough,' he said, according to Fox 8.

Judge Algenon Marbley has ruled in favor of protesters who filed a federal lawsuit against the city. In his preliminary injunction, he ordered police to stop using tear gas, pepper spray and rubber bullets against nonviolent protesters

Now, though, when responding to protests or riots in the future, police in Columbus have now been ordered to stop using some of their previous tactics, including rubber bullets, pepper spray and tear gas.

The judge noted that his order applied only to nonviolent protesters who are not harming people or destroying property, so that still presumably allows police some leeway if crowds become out of control.

Marbley also said police can not inflict pain to punish or deter protesters and must ensure body-worn and cruiser cameras are working and badge numbers are visible even when officers are wearing riot gear.

He also said individuals clearly identifying themselves as reporters, medics or legal observers must be allowed to record protests and help injured people.

At issue in the federal lawsuit was the city's response to protests that began in late May after the death of Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin, who was last month convicted of killing the black man.

Columbus protests lasted multiple days downtown, near Ohio State University and across other parts of the city.

The first night, protesters smashed windows at the Ohio Statehouse and at businesses throughout downtown.

In a separate episode, U.S. Rep. Joyce Beatty was hit by pepper spray as scuffles broke out near the end of a May demonstration.

The lawsuit, which was filed in July on behalf of more than two dozen protesters, sought monetary damages for injuries sustained in clashes with police after Floyd's death.

A multi-day hearing was held before Marbley earlier this year.

The lawsuit described peaceful demonstrators and bystanders being beaten, fired on with wooden and rubber bullets, and unlawfully arrested during protests in late May and June.

Columbus protests lasted multiple days downtown, near Ohio State University and across other parts of the city. The first night, protesters smashed windows at the Ohio Statehouse and at businesses throughout downtown

The lawsuit, which was filed in July on behalf of more than two dozen protesters, sought monetary damages for injuries sustained in clashes with police after Floyd's death

Protesters can be seen giving police officers the finger as they patrolled an area in Columbus last June; a judge said the police response needed to be more restrained in the future when dealing with non-violent protesters

Lead plaintiff Tammy Fournier Alsaada, a community activist, was pepper-sprayed without provocation after receiving permission to walk through a line of police to discuss the arrests of some protesters, the lawsuit said.

Another plaintiff, Terry Hubby Jr., testified that he joined a May 29 protest and was struck by a nonlethal police projectile that shattered his knee, requiring surgery and the insertion of 20 pins and a plate.

Video of the incident revealed that officers fired the projectiles while a police loud system issued an order to disperse.

Columbus Police have been in the spotlight of late after a rookie officer shot dead 16-year-old Ma'Khia Bryant (above) last month after body cam footage showed her attempting to stab two woman moments earlier

'In other words, there was no time for protesters to react,' Marbley said.

Police also testified before Marbley about facing chaotic and threatening situations.

'People were walking up to us with bottles and opening them and throwing, like, unknown liquids on us, yelling in our face,' Officer Anthony Johnson said, according to court documents.

Marbley, however, found the evidence showed that police overreacted.

'The video and testimonial evidence presented by Plaintiffs suggests that police have used physical violence, tear gas, and pepper spray against peaceful protestors without provocation, and city officials have done nothing or not enough to condemn and correct these actions,' the judge said.

The city had opposed the lawsuit, arguing that the police department has since changed its policies to implement most of what the protesters who sued had demanded.

Elected officials have been continuously critical of the 1,900-officer police department.

Mayor Andrew Ginther and City Attorney Zach Klein - both Democrats - last week invited the Justice Department to review the police department for 'deficiencies and racial disparities' in recruitment, hiring and use of force, among other categories.

'We need to change the culture of the Columbus Division of Police,' the letter said, echoing language Ginther has used for years.

More recently, the mayor has said the division's next police chief must be a 'change agent' who will come from outside the department.

'Last summer, the city was faced with extraordinary circumstances not seen in more than two decades,' Ginther said in a Friday statement.

'Today's ruling tells us we fell short in our response.'

In January, interim Columbus Chief Thomas Quinlan was forced out after Ginther said he'd lost confidence in the chief's ability to make needed changes.

Subsequent protests that took place without confrontation illustrate the city's commitment to the types of changes the judge ordered, he said.

Klein issued a statement saying Marbley's order underscores the need for the federal review and reflects the city's belief that, 'non-violent, peaceful protesters must be respected, and unnecessary and excessive force must not be used against them'.
Jury selection got under way on Monday in the trial of a Florida dental hygienist who has been charged with strangling to death a female Navy recruit in 1984, and who has now been linked to another cold-case slaying in Hawaii.

Thomas Garner, 61, was arrested in March 2019 for the killing of 25-year-old Pamela Cahanes, his fellow classmate at the Orlando Naval Training Center, after investigators tracked him down using the DNA testing service Parabon Nanolabs and the genealogy website GEDmatch.

Garner has pleaded not guilty to a count of first-degree murder stemming from Cahanes' death.

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Jury selection is under way in the trial of Thomas Garner, 61 (left) for the 1984 murder of Navy recruit Pamela Cahanes (right)

Garner is also being investigated in connection with the September 1982 cold-case murder of 25-year-old Kathy Hicks in Honolulu, Hawaii. Local police shared sketches of a man Hicks was last seen with before her death (pictured above)

Meanwhile, Garner is also being investigated as a potential suspect in the unsolved murder of 25-year-old Kathy Hicks, whose body was found in a ditch in Honolulu, Hawaii, in 1982, reported ClickOrlando.com.

As of Monday morning, Garner has not been charged in connection with the Hicks case.

On August 5, 1984, two days after graduating from the naval academy in Orlando, Cahanes was found face-down in her underwear a yard of a vacant home covered in blood. Her white uniform was found scattered nearby

Cahanes, one of eight children from Minnesota, was badly beaten and strangled to death.

Investigators collected DNA evidence from Cahanes' body, which was repeatedly submitted for testing over the years but failed to produce a match.

Garner was arrested in Florida in March 2019 thanks to DNA testing and genetic genealogy

Cahanes was found strangled and beaten to death two days after she had graduated from the Orlando Naval Training Center in Florida (Cahanes second left with peers at her graduation) . She and Garner were both at the training center at the same time though it's not clear how they ran into each other

A break in the case came in 2015, when DNA from semen found on the victim's underwear was submitted to the private forensic genealogy service GEDMatch, which determined that the sample came from somebody with African ancestry.

Further testing on the DNA sample conducted in 2018 allowed experts at Parabon NanoLabs to create the unknown suspect's 'family tree,' which ultimately led the authorities in Seminole County to Garner.

In 2019, cops trailed Garner until they saw him throw several items in the trash at his apartment complex, including a piece of used dental floss, a cigarette butt and a cotton swab, reported Orlando Sentinel.

Officers collected the items and sent them to a Florida Department of Law Enforcement laboratory for testing, which investigators said returned a '100 per cent' match to the DNA found on Cahanes' underwear.

The odds of the DNA belonging to anyone other than Garner is 700 billion to one.

During an interview with police, Garner (far right) claimed he wouldnt date recruits during his naval service and would never have had sex with a white woman

Garner was arrested on March 13, 2019, but denied knowing Cahanes. During a police interview, the suspect, who is a black man, claimed he wouldnt date recruits during his naval service and would never have had sex with a white woman.

Garner has a clean criminal record, other than a battery charge during his time serving in the navy.

A month before Garner's trial in Cahanes' murder was scheduled to begin in Florida, detectives with the Honolulu Police Department filed a request for a search warrant seeking to obtain a DNA sample from him.

According to the court document, police in Honolulu investigating the 1982 cold-case murder of Kathy Hicks got a preliminary match from DNA that was entered into the Combined DNA Index System taken from Garner, as WFTV first reported.

Hicks was a Delta Airlines employee from Atlanta who was visiting Honolulu in September 1982 to attend a softball tournament.

Investigators said her body was found dumped in a ditch.

The search warrant states that Hicks told friends that she was at a bar with some people near Hickam Air Force Base in Honolulu, now called Joint Base Pearl HarborHickam.

Hicks has pleaded not guilty to Cahanes' murder, and he has not been charged with killing Hicks

On September 19, 1982, two joggers discovered Hicks' body dumped in a ditch. She had been beaten and strangled to death.

Witnesses provided sketches of a man she was last seen with, described as having an African American mixed ethnicity, standing 511 to 6 tall, weighing about 150 to 160 lbs., clean cut with black hair, and brown eyes.

Garner was stationed in Hawaii from 1980 until October 29, 1982.

Cahanes' murder joins a number of cold cases that have been potentially solved thanks to advances in modern DNA technology.

In August 2018, Golden State Killer Joseph James DeAngelo was arrested for a dozen murders and 50 rapes that took place back in the late 70s and 80s, after investigators utilized the online genealogical sites Ancenstry.com and 23andMe.
Shamed Noel Clarke had sold video messages to fans from an online site where he urges them to 'stay on my good side'.

The 45-year-old, who is currently mired in harassment allegations, was offering the phone videos for 48.75 a go.

Cameo, the platform, which he was selling on is popular as an income stream for a number of celebrity names.

Clarke declares on the website: 'I am properly excited to do shout outs.

'If you want a shout out for your friends, families or loved ones let me know.

'Thanks so much for the support, I appreciate it - hopefully speak to you soon.'

While his Cameo page remains live, those wishing to book a message from him are told Mr Clarke is 'unavailable right now', and are advised to enter their email addresses to be notified when he is bookable again.

Clarke is still on Cameo despite the furore engulfing his career after the allegations were made

The messages cost 48.50 and are available easily online for fans or supporters

The Bafta boss who have gave Noel Clarke (pictured) an award despite being told of sex claims against the actor had worked with him as part of a diversity drive a year earlier, it has been claimed

Krishnendu Majumdar is said to have teamed-up with the Viewpoint star to help increase diversity in the Bafta awards

On Monday evening Mr Clarke's Cameo profile had a five-star rating from a total of 78 reviews. He typically responds within four days, the profile says.

In one of the films for a female fan for her 40th birthday he says he 'he bets she doesn't look a day over 21'.

The majority of the messages  five of which are available to view  appear to be for Dr Who fans.

One is to a woman whose wedding was cancelled during the pandemic.

More than once he mentions grey hair in his beard and describes himself as #Kingmaker in his profile.

They were all recorded before this latest scandal broke and 20 women accused him of inappropriate behaviour, with the latest fan review on his page posted on April 27.

Bafta President Prince William (pictured, left, at last year's ceremony) was 'kept in dark' about allegations facing actor and producer Noel Clark (right) and was due to praise the academy for its diversity before his speech was cancelled after the death of his grandfather last month

Bafta denies knowing about the claims against Clarke before he was given an award in March.

After Clarke was given his lifetime achievement gong, the Guardian printed allegations from 20 women who claimed they were sexually harassed or groped by the celebrated actor and director over a 15 year period.

A further seven women have since come forward.

Clarke has now said he is 'deeply sorry' for his actions but strongly denies sexual misconduct or any criminal wrongdoing.

It is claimed Bafta first learned of the allegations on March 29 - the day the award was announced - when award-winning film director Sally El Hosaini, talent manager Pelumi Akindude and Bafta-winning actor James Krishna Floyd wrote a joint letter to the organisation's chiefs.

In the letter they said they were 'extremely concerned' about its intention to give Clarke the award given the first-hand accounts they had heard. Bafta then suspended the award and Clarke's membership.

A spokesperson for Bafta said in a statement on its website: 'We acted as quickly and supportively as we could, even though we had only received the most generic of claims and no actual firsthand information to investigate allegations which were potentially of a criminal nature.

'Our lawyers have advised us every step of the way during this process to ensure we handled the matter correctly.

'Given that we did not have any of the personal testimony that The Guardian produced we were in an invidious situation and it would have been improper to halt the award at that point based on the extremely limited information that we had where the ultimate sources were unknown.'

Jahannah James is one of the 27 women who have accused the Viewpoint star of a campaign of sexual harassment and bullying

It comes as Bafta president Prince William yesterday said he was 'kept in the dark' about the sex allegations ahead of the actor-producer's recognition by the academy.

The Duke of Cambridge's speech was cancelled because of the death of his grandfather the Duke of Edinburgh but it is reported he had planned to praise Bafta for its diversity.

Prince William had shared his 'frustration' at the lack of diversity at the white-dominated Baftas last year and announced a 'full and thorough review'.

But as the academy rewarded Mr Clarke for his 'outstanding British contribution' to cinema, its president was set to praise Bafta, unaware that Clarke faced a string of sexual misconduct allegations, the Sunday Times reported.

Yesterday one of the actresses to make sexual misconduct claims against Clark said she called the police alleging the actor secretly filmed her naked during an audition.

Jahannah James, 31, is one of the 27 women who have accused the Viewpoint star, 45, of a campaign of sexual harassment and bullying.

Ms James, who co-starred in Brotherhood with Clarke, claims the actor secretly filmed her while she did a naked audition.

The actress, who made the claim on Twitter, was questioned by some social media users as to why she 'did not go to the police' at the time.

However, Ms James has now claimed she did in fact speak to officers, but they declined to open an investigation.

Writing on Twitter, she said: 'I tried to go to the police, they said they couldn't do anything unless he threatened me with the footage!!!

'And I wasn't in a place where I could speak out alone at the time. It's only together we've been able to speak now.'

It comes as Scotland Yard has said it is 'assessing' a specific allegation, following claims from 27 women now saying they were sexually harassed or groped by the celebrated actor and director. He strongly denies the allegations.

The Met Police confirmed that a 'third-party report' was made on April 21 'relating to allegations of sexual offences committed by a male over a period of time'.

A third party report is when claims are made to an organisation separate from the police. This type of report is anonymous and means the claims cannot be probed by officers but can be used as intelligence.

A spokesman said no criminal investigation had been launched but that officers are 'currently assessing the information'.

They added: 'We would urge anyone who believes they have been subjected to a sexual offence to report this to police so the information can be assessed and investigated accordingly.'

Clarke has apologised 'deeply' for his actions, but has 'vehemently' denied sexual misconduct or criminal behaviour.
Global investors flock to China amid improved business environment

Xinhua) 09:31, May 03, 2021

Aerial photo taken on Feb. 24, 2020 shows the Haizhu wetland and the Canton Tower in the distance in Guangzhou, south China's Guangdong Province. (Photo by Xie Huiqiang/Xinhua)

Global investors' enthusiasm for the Chinese market seems unstoppable despite the COVID-19 pandemic, as the latest data showed that China successfully navigated the economic fallout in the turbulent year and became the top investment destination worldwide.

In 2020, global foreign direct investment (FDI) flows plummeted by 38 percent from a year before to 846 billion U.S. dollars, the lowest level since 2005, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) said.

The global FDI flows represented only 1 percent of world GDP, their lowest level since 1999, the OECD said.

OECD's FDI figures echoed a report by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development earlier this year, which also found China became the largest FDI recipient in 2020.

China's appeal to foreign investment has extended into 2021, as the Chinese economy sustained positive performance in the first quarter, and foreign companies expected a promising future in the country.

A recent survey by the Ministry of Commerce (MOC) shows that 96.4 percent of foreign-invested enterprises are optimistic about their business prospects in China.

The figure represents a 2.1 percentage-point increase compared with the beginning of the year, the survey of over 3,200 foreign-funded firms said.

MOC data also showed FDI into the Chinese mainland surged by 39.9 percent year on year in actual use to 302.47 billion yuan (about 46.74 billion U.S. dollars) in the first quarter.

Liu Xiangdong, a researcher with the China Center for International Economic Exchanges, attributed the robust first-quarter FDI growth to a low base last year, sound economic fundamentals, and increasing attractiveness to foreign capital.

Considering the short-term low base and uncertainties ahead, the high growth rate of China's FDI may not sustain, said Liu. "Yet China will remain attractive to foreign investors as the country continues to push forward reform and opening-up."

Looking ahead, China has made great efforts to lure more global investors to its massive domestic market by widening market access and improving the business environment.

In January, a revised industry catalog that opens up more sectors for foreign investors came into effect, encouraging more foreign capital to pump into high-end manufacturing.

Other measures included further implementing the pre-establishment national treatment plus negative list management system, accelerating the implementation of salient foreign-funded projects, and strengthening protection for foreign investment.

(Web editor: Zhange Wenjie, Bianji)
TMC supremo and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee flashes the victory sign during interaction with media after trends show her party's wins in the State Assembly Election 2021, in Kolkata, Sunday, May 2, 2021. (PTI)

New Delhi: Rejecting saffron, West Bengal has turned green yet again.

It was a nail-biting start as the BJP and Trinamul Congress moved neck and neck towards the finishing line as the counting began for the West Bengal elections early on Sunday morning. But by 10 am, the Trinamul Congress led by its firebrand chief Mamata Banerjee had dashed past by trampling all over the so-called formidable lotus brigade.

Confusion and controversy plagued the most-watched electoral battle in Nandigram. The Election Commission, which had earlier declared Ms Banerjee as the winner by 1,200 votes, later retracted and declared her former aide and BJP candidate Suvendu Adhikari as the winner by a margin of nearly 1,700 votes. Ms Banerjee, while accepting the verdict of the people, intends to move the courts against the Election Commission.

The Election Commissions role in the West Bengal election has always been under the spotlight, ranging from its decision to hold eight-phase polls to its refusal to club the remaining four phases even as the Covid-19 cases and deaths spiked beyond control. A Trinamul delegation met the West Bengal EC late Sunday evening.

The BJPs Bengal roar, Ab ki baar, 200 par, ended in a whimper as it struggled even to reach 80 seats. The TMC not merely crossed 200 but was moving in the direction of improving upon its 2016 tally of 211. The TMC, at this juncture, was leading in around 212 seats. Ms Banerjee's poll strategist Prashant Kishor claimed the BJP would not have got even this number of seats without the help of the Election Commission.

The fight for West Bengal was a battle between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Mamata Banerjee. Making this election a prestige issue, the BJP had put all its eggs into the Bengal basket. Not only had the BJP parachuted all its top heavyweights from across the country, Union home minister Amit Shah virtually camped in the state and the Prime Minister held a staggering number of over 20 rallies.

Undeterred by the BJP powerhouse, the TMC raised the slogan Khela Hobe, and Mr Modi countered it by saying Khela Shesh. However, Ms Banerjee made his words come true, but for the BJP, not the TMC.

The results clearly indicated the so-called anti-incumbency factor against the TMC existed only in the BJPs poll propaganda. This is the third consecutive victory for the TMC supremo.

The West Bengal results could have a major impact on national politics. Following this historic win, Ms Banerjee has emerged as the Oppositions tallest face against the Narendra Modi government. The Opposition parties might now decide to rally behind the Trinamul supremo.

All eyes would be now on the forthcoming Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls, where the Yogi Adityanath administration was in the eye of the storm after the spiralling Covid-19 cases and deaths in the state.

In other states, the results were on the expected lines. While the BJP was moving towards retaining Assam, the DMK is all set to trounce the ruling AIADMK in Tamil Nadu and the LDF led by the CPI(M)s Pinyari Vijayan was set to create history by returning to power in Kerala.

If the collapse of the Left seemed complete in West Bengal, where the Sanjukta Morcha (Left-Congress-Indian Secular Front) was struggling to open its account, the Congress, led by Rahul Gandhi, seemed to be at the political crossroads all over again.

The Congress not merely lost in Assam, but also paid a heavy price for its electoral miscalculation of aligning with the Left parties as well as the Indian Secular Front in West Bengal. The party also lost in Rahul Gandhis new home turf, Kerala. The only face-saver for the Congress was its move to hitch a ride on the winning DMKs wagon in Tamil Nadu.

The West Bengal verdict was one against the highly polarised, divisive and communal campaign unleashed by the BJP. The BJP openly played the religion card, talked about Hindu pride, with the home minister even declaring the Jai Shri Ram slogan was a symbol of anti-appeasement politics and the BJP leaders went around saying if the TMC returned to power, it would turn Bengal into Pakistan. The PM, addressing rallies, said while referring to Ms Banerjee: You, get irritated by the chants of Jai Shri Ram, but youll now have to hear chants of Har Har Mahadev.

The divisive campaign not only led to a complete consolidation of the Muslim vote in the TMCs favour, but, stunning the saffronites, even the majority of Bengali Hindu bhadraloks didnt vote for the BJP. What also offended Bengali sentiments was the PMs taunts against the CM when he mocked her as Didi o Didi. UP chief minister Yogi Adityanaths harping on love jihad and the promise to introduce anti-Romeo squads in West Bengal also worked against the saffron party.

The BJPs corruption charges against the Mamata Banerjee government fell by the wayside as the party not only admitted the allegedly corrupt dissident TMC leaders but also gave them tickets.

The final nail on the BJPs Bengal coffin was the rapid rise of Covid cases and deaths. By the time the fourth phase was over, the Covid cases and deaths had spiralled out of control across the country. Bengali voters saw people dying in the thousands due to lack of oxygen and hospital beds. The Centres failure to provide relief did not sit well with the Bengali electorates. By the end of the fifth phase, the anger had turned towards the Centre. The Bengali middle class, which was initially leaning towards the BJP, began moving away. As a result, Ms Banerjee swept Kolkata, Howrah and many other urban areas. What had also enraged the people of West Bengal was the Election Commissions refusal to club the remaining phases of the election even as Covid-19 cases and deaths shot through the roof.

At the end of the day, even though the BJP could not snatch West Bengal from the TMC, the party managed to emerge as its primary opponent.

The BJP has improved its tally from three to nearly 80 seats. However, the problem with the BJP is that its voteshare compared to that of 2019 has come down, while the TMCs share has gone up by five per cent. As for the CPI(M)-led Left, the less said is better. Its politics of opportunism shown by its alliance with a radical leader, Abbas Siddiqui, and his outfit, Indian Secular Front, had no takers.
Rep. Liz Cheney slammed former President Donald Trump for 'poisoning our democratic system' as he continues to falsely spout that the 2020 election was stolen from him.

'The 2020 presidential election was not stolen,' Cheney tweeted Monday morning. 'Anyone who claims it was is spreading THE BIG LIE, turning their back on the rule of law, and poisoning our democratic system.'

Trump later hit back with an emailed statement, as he remains banished from Twitter and Facebook.

'Heartwarming to read new polls on big-shot warmonger Liz Cheney of the great State of Wyoming. She is so low that her only chance would be if vast numbers of people run against her which, hopefully, won't happen,' the ex-president said. 'They never liked her much, but I say she'll never run in a Wyoming election again!'

Cheney's tweet comes amid reports that her time as House GOP Conference Chair could be coming to an end.

Rep. Liz Cheney slammed former President Donald Trump in a Monday morning tweet, standing her ground as the highest-ranking anti-Trump Republican in Congress

Cheney knocked Trump for continuing to spread election falsehoods, writing that he and others pushing the 'BIG LIE' are 'poisoning our democratic system'

Former President Donald Trump sent out a statement Monday morning trying to co-opt the term the 'big lie,' which has been used to describe his election falsehoods

On Monday, however, Trump tried to push that the big lie is 'The Fraudulent President Election of 2020,' instead of it referring to the falsehoods he's said about the election being fraudulent

Later Monday, Trump released a statement hitting Cheney, suggesting she would lose her House seat next year

'It's at a boiling point,' one House GOP lawmaker told The Hill newspaper Saturday. 'This isnt about Liz Cheney wanting to impeach Donald Trump; this isnt about Donald Trump at all. Its about Liz Cheney being completely out of sync with the majority of our conference.'

'As we're focused on unifying the Republican conference and our mission to win back the majority, she is focused on the past and proving a point,' the House member continued. 'She is alienating herself from the conference, and I have to imagine if she doesn't resign there will be a new vote in the near future and the result will be lopsided in the opposite direction of what it was before.'

Another GOP lawmaker speculated to The Hill, 'She may go down in a second vote.'

In February, Cheney - the No. 3 Republican in the House - survived a leadership vote 145-61.

The vote was by secret ballot, so Trump and his allies couldn't easily go after those who remained supportive of Cheney, the daughter of the former vice president, who voted for Trump's impeachment earlier this year.

More recently, however, Cheney has annoyed Republicans by, for instance, giving a fistbump to Democratic President Joe Biden at last week's Congressional address.

She told the New York Post in an interview published a week ago that a presidential bid wasn't off the table.

Cheney also said lawmakers who supported the effort to challenge the Electoral College votes on the day of the insurrection shouldn't be considered presidential material.

Rep. Liz Cheney (right) was captured giving a fist bump to President Joe Biden (left) as he walked into the House chamber to deliver his first address before Congress Wednesday night

'I do think that some of our candidates who led the charge, particularly the senators who led the unconstitutional charge, not to certify the election, you know, in my view that's disqualifying,' Cheney said.

Overall, 147 voted to overturn the election results, including eight U.S. senators.

Among those eight, Sens. Ted Cruz and Josh Hawley are likely to launch 2024 presidential bids.

Monday's anti-Trump tweet from Cheney came after the former president sent out a statement trying to co-opt the phrase 'the big lie' for his own means.

'The Fraudulent Presidential Election of 2020 will be, from this day forth, known as THE BIG LIE!' Trump wrote.

Biden began using the term 'the big lie' to describe Trump and his allies false election fraud claims in the days following the January 6 riot at the Capitol.

Two days after the MAGA riot, the then-president-elect was asked if Cruz and Hawley should resign.

'I think they should be just flat out be defeated the next time,' Biden answered. 'And I think the American public has a real good clear look at who they are.'

'They're part of the big lie,' Biden continued.

Biden then went into a long-winded story about Nazi propagadist Joseph Goebbels and the bombing of Dresden.

'It's one thing for one man, one woman to repeat the lie over and over and over again,' Biden said. 'By the way, Trump said that before he ran, if you say it enough, I'm going to convince you, I'll say it enough: "the press is bad, the press is bad, the press is bad, the press is bad,"' Biden said.

'If he's the only one to say that that's one thing, but the acolytes that follow him, like Cruz and others, they are as responsible as he is,' Biden argued.

Cheney has gone out of her way to debunk Trump's 'big lie,' as other Republicans have gotten back in line.

House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy - like Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell - was originally critical of the role Trump played in the January 6 riot, only to go visit the ex-president at Mar-a-Lago and make peace with him.

McConnell and Trump are still feuding.
Former Met Police officer Mark Collins has been jailed for two years and four months after admitting a string of child sex offences

A police officer who once worked in child abuse investigations was jailed for over two years today for sending explicit photographs of himself to a person he believed to be a 13-year-old girl.

Mark Collins told the 'teenager' she was 'very attractive' and asked if she had any sexual urges after contacting her via the message service Kik.

Collins, who joined the force in 1991, urged her to delete the sexual photographs and any messages between them so that her mother wouldn't see them.

He also incited her to engage in sexual activity by performing a sex act on herself.

Collins called her a 'lovely young woman' and 'yummy' and sent her pictures of his penis, not knowing the recipient was an undercover officer.

Collins, 58, admitted one count of attempting to incite a child to engage in sexual activity and six counts of attempting to engage in sexual communications with a child.

He retired in February after 29 years of service before he could be fired and lose his pension.

The Old Bailey heard that Collins' messages had alternated between 'fatherly compassion' and instructions on how to perform sex acts.

He told the girl he was an insurance investigator and asked her whether she had 'naughty urges' and whether she 'played with herself'.

Collins, wearing a red and blue tie over a light blue shirt bowed his head in shame as The Recorder of London, Judge Mark Lucraft, told him he would be going to jail.

Judge Lucraft said: 'I make clear you, in fact, pleaded guilty to all matters and you will receive full credit for your pleas of guilty.

'It is clear that many of the messages you sent were explicit, setting out what you were imagining.

During his sentencing hearing at the Old Bailey (pictured), the court heard Collins sent explicit messages to a person he thought was a 13-year-old girl but was an undercover police officer

'Some of the images you provided are very concerning. There are repeated warnings to delete the emails.

'The exchanges show that you attempted to incite a girl to engage in [sex acts].

'The attempted incitement is the most serious of the offending here.'

Judge Lucraft said Collins' messages were 'highly sexual' adding that the seriousness of his behaviour was categorised by the 'grooming and disparity of age.'

Earlier David Povall told the court: 'Between 4th November and 25th November 2019 this defendant, who at the time was a serving police officer, engaged in sexual communication with a person he believed to be a 13-year-old girl.

'The charges relate to online conversations using the Kik application on six separate dates.'

Mr Povall said the decoy told Collins she was 13-years-old and he replied 'you look lovely'.

He continued: 'There was discussion of her movements, his movements, how she was getting on at school.

Met officer Mark Collins, who admitted trying to groom a 13-year-old girl, was found guilty of gross misconduct after he had quit the force and a panel found he would have been sacked

'There was a discussion as to the possibility of their meeting but it was never more than an idea floated and there was some talk about where that might happen.

'Conversations began when the defendant approached the decoy saying "hello you look like a lovely lady we should chat sometime".

Mr Povall said Collins sent the decoy a 'series of photographs of his penis' while on holiday in Malta November 19.

He added: 'The defendant asked that she should be careful to delete the conversation.'

Collins then went on to give 'detailed instructions on how to [perform a sex act]' on November 24, two days before his arrest.

Mr Povall said: 'Having discussed her sexual excitement he then goes on to give instructions, or advise as to how she should [perform a sex act].

'The decoy is pretending that she is going along with his suggestions and indeed doing as he is suggesting throughout the course of the conversation.'

Collins told the decoy the following day: 'It is a shame your mum came back early' after the decoy ended the previous conversation by saying that her mother had returned home.

The officer was arrested at work on November 26, 2019, and said nothing during a police interview.

Karen Robinson, defending said: 'This is a case where there was no physical contact or conversation with a real child, no actual harm was caused by the offending behaviour, and secondly, no actual harm could have been caused as the recipient in this case was an undercover officer.'

She described the offending as a 'spectacular fall from grace' but argued Collins did not use his position as a police officer to incite sexual activity.

'It was in reality, offending as Mark Collins not as Police Constable Mark Collins,' said Ms Robinson.

'He had not sought to use his position to persuade the recipient in these messages to take a particular course of action.

'Whilst it is part of the background in this case it is not a factor to aggravate it.

'He didn't present to have an age younger than his own, he told the truth.

'We invite the court to find in Mark Collins case his recourse is deep-felt and genuine.'

Collins, of Fleet, Hampshire, admitted six charges of attempting to communicate with a person for the purpose of obtaining sexual gratification and one of causing a child aged between 13 and 15 to engage in sexual penetrative activity, between 4 November 2019 and 25 November 2019.

He was sentenced to two years and four months imprisonment and made the subject of a sexual harm prevention order for ten years.

Upon release, Collins will have to notify police of his whereabouts for ten years.
An engineer who took his own life while battling a sex addiction was not given the support he needed from the NHS, his family told an inquest today.

The body of father-of-two Dylan McFarlane was found on the beach at Lushington, near St Agnes in Cornwall, last October.

An inquest into his death heard the 35-year-old engineer had struggled with his mental health and battled depression but had struggled to get help amid the Covid pandemic.

Family members told the hearing that Mr McFarlane was not given proper support and treatment in Cornwall for sex addiction, which worsened his suicidal thoughts.

They claim he would have received better treatment had he been living in America, where sex addiction is, 'taken more seriously.'

The 35-year-old engineer had struggled with his mental health and battled depression but had struggled to get help amid the Covid pandemic

The body of father-of-two Dylan McFarlane was found on the beach at Lushington, near St Agnes in Cornwall, last Octobe

The 35-year-old was born in Alaska before going on to study at the University of St Andrews, and the University of Exeter, where he obtained a master's in mining engineering.

Speaking on video link from the US Mr McFarlane's ex-wife Deborah, a university lecturer, said sex addiction was 'not a widely recognised' problem in the UK.

Criticising the care Mr McFarlane received in Cornwall, she added: 'To me, it's incredible that someone who has been identified as a high risk of suicide was asked to call back next week.

'The first therapist he saw told him at their first meeting that he would not discuss sex with him and discharged him and gave him no alternative.

'The second therapist told him that no such thing existed. I have no confidence that Relate is a competent place to send people with these problems.'

Mr McFarlane's sister Cayanne, also speaking on video link from Virginia, said there was a 'different cultural attitude' towards sex addiction in the UK.

'He did not feel like he got the services he needed,' she said.

'He did not necessarily take responsibility and share the full picture, but he did feel that he wasn't taken seriously by some of the medical professionals in regards to the things he brought up in terms of sex addiction. He found it very difficult to get help.'

The inquest heard Mr McFarlane was prescribed anti-depressants and had reported having suicidal thoughts in the weeks leading up to his death.

Outlook South West, which offers mental health support in Cornwall, had deemed him a high risk of suicidal intent, so a discussion and management plan was agreed with him.

On October 7 Outlook South West was notified he had not attended an appointment and a text was sent to him to speak to one of the team. The next notification the service received was that Mr McFarlane had died on October 21.

Dr Yonette Hassell, clinical service and strategy lead for Outlook South West said Covid had been 'challenging' because it meant face to face appointments were unable to take place.

The St Agnes lifeboat attended after Dylan McFarlane's body was found on Lushington beach

Coroner Andrew Cox has written to the Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust and given it 56 days to come up with a strategy on how it treats patients with a sex addiction.

Recording a conclusion of suicide, the coroner said: 'I think there is a gap in the provision of the service that properly needs to be considered with a plan put in place as to how patients presenting in this way in the future are going to be treated.

'If it is going to remain the case that a referral to Relate is going to be the option then there needs to be an understanding of what it is that Relate is going to offer, and if they're going to offer a service which says 'we're not going to talk about sex here' that is not going to work.

'There is some work to be done to put a cohesive plan together.' I'm hoping that lessons are learned and the situation is improved for patients in the future.'
A lucky Gettysburg battlefield visitor has cheated death after a giant tree crashed down on the portable toilet he was using, trapping him inside.

The poor occupant was rescued from the toilet at the Gettysburg National Military Park by Barlow Volunteer Fire Department just before 4pm on Friday.

The crew treated the man's predicament as a car entrapment and managed to cut him free from the porta-potty.

Assistant Chief Joe Robinson said the rescue team had cut away parts of the fallen tree and then open the portable toilet with a Sawzall to free the man.

A lucky Gettysburg battlefield visitor has cheated death after a giant tree crashed down on the portable toilet he was using, trapping him inside

The poor occupant was rescued from the toilet at the Gettysburg National Military Park by Barlow Volunteer Fire Department just before 4pm on Friday. The rescue team cut away parts of the fallen tree and then open the portable toilet with a Sawzall to free the man

Robinson told a local paper he initially thought the call was about someone trapped in their car or a UTV.

Instead, when the crew arrived at the scene they were directed by park rangers to the portable toilet.

He told the York Daily Record the man 'was very lucky,' to get out alive. 'It was a large tree, and it just missed striking him. It could have been very serious.'

The man was taken to Gettysburg Hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

Robinson, who has worked as a firefighter for 30 years, told the paper he had never seen anything like it.

He added it had been a busy day for the team because high winds in area had felled several trees and wires. There had also been reports of fires, he said.
The new Lord Speaker has called for the number of peers to be 'vigorously' reduced as he demanded a 'face to face' meeting with Boris Johnson to discuss plans to shake up Parliament.

Lord McFall, who has just taken over the role from Lord Fowler, said the upper chamber should be continuing to look at shrinking to the size of the House of Commons.

At the moment there are approximately 800 peers compared to 650 MPs in the Commons.

There are long-running efforts to reduce the number of MPs to 600 and Lord McFall said the House of Lords should have 'no more' members than the Commons.

Lord McFall said he wanted to meet with Mr Johnson to discuss the need for reform 'eye to eye'.

Lord McFall, the new Lord Speaker, said the upper chamber should be continuing to look at shrinking to the size of the House of Commons

Lord McFall said he wanted a 'face to face' meeting with Boris Johnson to discuss reforming the House of Lords

Lord McFall, now a non-affiliated peer who previously served as a Labour minister, told BBC Radio 4's The Westminster Hour programme: 'We should certainly be vigorously continuing to look at reducing the size of the House to a level which is no more than the House of Commons.

'I don't rule out going along to see Boris Johnson on that particular thing because actually when I was in the Palace the other day there he did call me out as I was passing to congratulate me.

'And I did say to him, "look, I hope to come and see you soon" and he said "fine", so I think we will continue that conversation.'

Pressed on whether he believed Mr Johnson would listen to calls to reduce the number of peers by approximately 200, Lord McFall said: 'The only way you can get a satisfactory outcome or process is to engage face to face, eye to eye, and I would like that opportunity to talk to him on that one to one level.'

He added: 'I would say to him that the House of Lords, the whole House of Lords, is behind the Burns report because the House has agreed on that and we would like to find a decent way of ensuring that we get the size of the House down as a result of it and I've got the whole House behind me on that.'

The Burns report, published in 2017, recommended capping the number of peers at 600 and introducing 15-year fixed terms for new peers.
Florida's Governor Ron deSantis on Monday lifted all of the state's remaining COVID rules, including wearing masks, sayig the state is 'no longer in a state of emergency'.

DeSantis was at a waterfront restaurant in St. Petersburg when he signed SB-2006 - a bill that allows him to override all local rules and bans vaccine passports from July 1 onwards.

The rollback of restrictions comes as virus deaths in Florida have fallen sharply.

It joins only three other states that have rolled back all restrictions 100 percent, according to an analysis by Multistate, a government relations firm that is tracking state data.

Only Alabama, Arizona and Georgia have also rolled back their restrictions 100 percent, according to the analysis.

Alaska, North Dakota, Texas and West Virginia have all rolled back their restrictions by 96 percent, according to the Multistate tally, rounding out the list of the most open states.

In Florida, DeSantis said that the vaccine rollout in Florida - where more than 6million doses have been administered to a population of 21.48 million - had been so successful that anyone who hasn't yet had one is choosing not to.

'At this point, the people that haven't been vaccinated is certainly not because a lack of supply or a lack of availability,' he said.

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DeSantis was at a waterfront restaurant in St. Petersburg when he signed SB-2006 - a bill that allows him to override all local rules and bans vaccine passports from July 1 onwards

DeSantis signed the bill - SB 2006 - at The Big Catch, a restaurant in St Petersburg

His order means that in public places, there are no more COVID rules at all including social distancing and masks.

It's unclear what the rules will be on public transport, on planes going in and out of Florida or in airports.

It's likely that airports will be masked-up zones because of airline regulations, though people will likely be able to strip off their masks as soon as they leave the premises.

Private businesses can however choose to enforce their own rules, which has largely been the case in Florida throughout.

Infections over the last month have trended slightly downward but remained mostly steady

Deaths, on the other hand, related to the virus are on a sharp downward trend

There has never been a statewide mask mandate in Florida, nor have there been state-imposed social distancing rules.

Instead, Democratic stronghold cities and counties have taken to imposing their own rules.

STATES FULLY OPENED Multistate, a government-relations firm, crunched state data and gave each state a score based on their easing of COVID-19 restrictions. These states scored between 96 and 100 percent on the scale of being fully re-opened as of Monday: Alabama - 100 Arizona - 100 Florida - 100 Georgia - 100 Alaska - 96 North Dakota - 96 Texas - 96 West Virginia -96 Source: Multistate.us Advertisement

Many say they have saved the state from a COVID problem and that had it been down to deSantis all along, more would have died.

DeSantis said his executive order would allow people to finally get back to normal.

'We dont know whats going to happen in the future, but I think this creates a structure thats going to be a little bit more respectful, I think, of peoples businesses jobs, schools and personal freedom.'

DeSantis also said that because so many people had now been vaccinated, telling anyone who has that they still need to wear a mask undermines confidence in the vaccines themselves.

'Folks that are saying that they need to be policing people at this point are saying you dont believe in the vaccines, you dont believe in the data, you dont believe in the science,' he said.

Among those who criticized his decision was Miami Beach Mayor Dan Gelber.

'It feels like hes spiking the ball on the 10-yard line. Hes been following political ideology more than science during this whole pandemic,' he said.

'To be clear, cities like St. Pete, Tampa, Orlando, Miami and Miami Beach, saved Florida and the governors behind throughout this pandemic.

'Can you imagine if each city had been led by Ron DeSantis?

'How many lives would have been lost? What would our economy look like today?' St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriseman said in another tweet.
As prime minister, David Cameron hailed a new 'golden era' of financial relations between the UK and China as he went for a pint with President Xi.

But the thaw between the Communist Eastern giant and capitalist West he envisioned in 2015 has failed to materialise, leaving him facing another lost opportunity to make millions.

Mr Cameron, who is heavily embroiled in the Greensill Capital lobbying row, had high hopes of launching a 750milllion UK-China investment fund, to capitalise on Beijing's ever increasing economic might.

But plans for the scheme first discussed in 2017, to be set up with Tory peer Lord Chadlington, have been put on ice as the two nations clash over issues including spying, political freedom in Hong Kong and genocide of China's Uighur Muslims.

A spokesman for Mr Cameron, who was prime minister from 2010 to 2016, told the Financial Times: 'The UK-China fund has yet to be established.'

Mr Cameron enjoying a beer with President Xi during a state visit to Britain in 2015. But relations between the nations have cooled significantly since

Plans for the scheme first discussion in 2017, to be set up with Tory peer Lord Chadlington, have been put on ice as the two nations clash over issues including spying, political freedom in Hong Kong (above) and genocide of China's Uighur Muslims.

Mr Cameron flew to Beijing in September 2017 to discuss the plan with China's Vice Premier Ma Kai.

In October that year  15 months after stepping down as PM  he met with Philip Hammond, the then Chancellor, and two months later the Treasury gave its crucial support for the fund for which Mr Cameron was to be vice-chairman.

By January 2018, Mr Cameron was back in Beijing, this time for talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping about the initiative which could potentially net him millions.

'Excellent meeting & enjoyable dinner with President Xi Jinping in Beijing, to talk about the 'Golden Era' in UK-China relations & plans for the new UK-China Fund,' he tweeted at the time.

Under the ministerial code, former PMs and Ministers are banned from lobbying the Government for two years after leaving office.

It prompted calls last month for the inquiry into Greensill to be extended to cover the fund.

Mr Cameron has already been cleared of breaching lobbying rules on behalf of Greensill before it went bust.

The regulator accepted that he worked for the firm as an employee rather than as a paid consultant.

But Mr Cameron has acknowledged he should have communicated with ministers via formal channels, rather than texting senior figures like Rishi Sunak.

Number 10 has commissioned a Cabinet Office probe into 'the development and use of supply chain finance and associated activities in Government, and the role Greensill played in those'.

The review will look at how contracts were secured and 'how business representatives engaged with Government' amid a furore over the text messages, in which Mr Cameron asked for emergency Covid aid to stop Greensill collapsing.
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Britain recorded just one Covid death today in the lowest fatality toll in nine months, while infections dipped to levels not seen since the start of September.

Department of Health statistics showed this was only the third time deaths had fallen to this level, after August 3 and 30. July 30 was the only day of the pandemic to see zero victims recorded.

Health bosses also posted another 1,649 coronavirus cases, down by a fifth on the 2,064 last Monday. It was the fewest positive tests since September 2, before the second wave spiralled out of control.

Figures tend to be lower on Mondays because fewer people are available over the weekend to process paperwork to record a death. Separate date of death statistics, which lag by around a fortnight, show around 15 Brits are still succumbing to the virus every day  similar to levels seen at the end of summer, when ministers were happy to let Britons mix with few curbs despite no one being inoculated.

Britain today passed the landmark of having dished out 50million Covid vaccines, after another 250,000 jabs were dished out yesterday. Around 34.6million people have now had their first dose, and 15.4million  or 30 per cent of all adults  are fully inoculated.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock hailed the 'massive' achievement and insisted we are going to have a 'great British summer', while Boris Johnson said he could see no reason why England's next planned relaxation on May 17 could not go ahead.

Despite the success of the vaccine roll-out coming alongside falling cases and deaths, the PM poured cold water on holiday hopes, warning putting lots of countries on the travel 'green list' could risk an 'influx of disease'. His comments came hours after the EU unveiled plans to let vaccinated Brits in for summer trips.

Mr Johnson insisted Number 10 will be 'cautious' amid bitter Cabinet wrangling over how far to loosen the border restrictions this month. Mr Hancock and chief medical officer Chris Whitty are said to be among those pushing for quarantine-free states to be kept to an absolute minimum.

On a pre-election visit to Hartlepool this afternoon, Mr Johnson also claimed there is a 'good chance' that current social distancing rules will be scrapped on June 21  touted as England's independence day.

Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab yesterday hinted masks and social distancing measures would be needed beyond June 21. But the PM today said he hopes it will be possible to axe the existing one-metre plus rule when the nation reaches the final step in his lockdown exit roadmap.

His comments came as hospitality bosses said a return to unrestricted trading is 'critical' and will mean that pubs, bars and restaurants can 'come off life support'. Ditching the one-metre plus rule will allow hospitality venues as well as places like theatres to open at full capacity for the first time in more than a year.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock hailed the 'massive' achievement, saying: 'These jabs are saving lives and helping us get back to normal'

Boris Johnson pours cold water on holidays hope warning a big quarantine-free 'green list' from May 17 could spark 'influx of disease' Boris Johnson today poured cold water on holidays hopes, warning putting lots of countries on the travel 'green list' from May 17 could risk an 'influx of disease'. The PM insisted the government will be 'cautious' amid bitter Cabinet wrangling over how far to loosen the border restrictions this month. Health Secretary Matt Hancock and chief medical officer Chris Whitty are said to be among those pushing for quarantine-free states to be kept to an absolute minimum. But other senior figures are urging a looser approach, insisting that with the outbreak under control in the UK and vaccines making strong progress the government has no right to keep curbing freedoms. Mr Johnson suggested he is siding with the dovish camp on a pre-election visit to Hartlepool this afternoon. 'We do want to do some opening up on May 17 but I don't think that the people of this country want to see an influx of disease from anywhere else,' he told reporters. 'I certainly don't and we have got to be very, very tough, and we have got to be as cautious as we can, whilst we continue to open up.' The comments came as the EU unveiled plans to let vaccinated Brits in for holidays. Brussels has offered hope for getaways with proposals for easing border rules for those who have had jabs and from countries with low infection rates. The UK's 'green list' is not expected to be revealed until Friday, leaving millions of Britons in limbo as they wonder whether trips will be possible. Gibraltar and Malta might be on the list, but much of Europe and the US could remain out of bounds due to fears over variant strains. Advertisement

In other Covid news:

Covid corpses are dumped into graves in India while a daughter gives her dying mother mouth-to-mouth;

Foreign holidays and nights out are less important than before lockdown, according to a survey;

Boris Johnson hints all restrictions could be removed from June 21;

Thousands of Cambridge students defy Covid rules for booze-fuelled 'Caesarian Sunday' to celebrate start of summer term;

Commuter towns experiencing boom in demand for office space as more companies move towards flexible working post-pandemic;

Gyms, sport centres and swimming pools reopen and two households are allowed to meet indoors in latest lockdown easing in Wales.

Responding to the monumental NHS figures, Mr Hancock said: 'I want to say a massive thank you to everybody involved  the NHS of course, the scientists, the Armed Forces and the council personnel whove helped so much, and the volunteers who brought a real spirit to this programme.

'It seems like only yesterday that Margaret Keenan was getting the first clinically authorised vaccine in the world and now weve delivered 50 million.

'And this is so important of course because it is a life-saving vaccine that helps protect you, helps protect those around you, and it is our route out of this pandemic.

'And its because of the vaccination programme that were able to keep going down this road map, and I know were going to have a great British summer.'

Boris Johnson told reporters on a visit to Hartlepool that the results of the vaccination drive were 'really starting to show up in the epidemiology' as cases remained low despite further rules being relaxed on April 12.

'As things stand, and the way things are going, with the vaccine roll-out going the way that it is - we have done 50million jabs as I speak to you today, a quarter of the adult population, one in four, have had two jabs,' he said.

Responding to the vaccination landmark, the deputy chief executive of NHS Providers Saffron Cordery called it a 'remarkable achievement'.

Ms Cordery added: 'Frontline NHS staff and volunteers have done a tremendous job over the past five months, administering nearly 35million first jabs and over 15million second doses.

'We owe a huge debt of gratitude to everyone involved in the planning and delivery of this huge and complex programme.

'But while there is much to celebrate with the success of the vaccination programme, we still have a long way to go before we reach our next big milestone of offering all adults their first jab by the end of July.

'We'd encourage everyone to have their vaccine when they are offered one and to carry on following the rules on social contact. This will help keep infection rates under control and ensure this current lockdown is our last.'

Boris Johnson today suggested he is siding with Mr Hancock's dovish camp on foreign holidays, warning putting lots of countries on the travel 'green list' from May 17 could risk an 'influx of disease'.

'We do want to do some opening up on May 17 but I don't think that the people of this country want to see an influx of disease from anywhere else,' he told reporters.

'I certainly don't and we have got to be very, very tough, and we have got to be as cautious as we can, whilst we continue to open up.'

Covid infection rates across the UK in the week to April 27, the latest available. Department of Health statistics showed nine in ten councils saw their cases fall throughout April. The highest infection rate was in Selby, North Yorkshire

The comments came as the EU unveiled plans to let vaccinated Brits in for holidays.

Boris Johnson reveals there is a 'good chance' current social distancing rules will be SCRAPPED on June 21 Boris Johnson today revealed there is a 'good chance' that current social distancing rules will be scrapped on June 21. The Prime Minister said he hopes it will be possible to axe the existing one-metre plus rule when the nation reaches the final step in his lockdown exit roadmap. His comments came as hospitality bosses said a return to unrestricted trading is 'critical' and will mean that pubs, bars and restaurants can 'come off life support'. Ditching the one-metre plus rule will allow hospitality venues as well as places like theatres to open at full capacity for the first time in more than a year. It was reported overnight that one-way systems, screens and mask-wearing while moving around could remain in place in hospitality settings beyond June 21 but customer numbers will no longer be limited. Audiences in theatres and cinemas will have to wear face coverings during performances, while there will be strict guidance on ventilation and staggered entry, according to The Times. Advertisement

Brussels has offered hope for getaways with proposals for easing border rules for those who have had jabs and from countries with low infection rates.

The UK's 'green list' is not expected to be revealed until Friday, leaving millions of Britons in limbo as they wonder whether trips will be possible.

Gibraltar and Malta might be on the list, but much of Europe and the US could remain out of bounds due to fears over variant strains.

Portugal is one country that could be added, with advocates saying infections and the risk of variants is now very low there.

However, a cross-party group of MPs has insisted that holidays should be discouraged even once they become legal in a fortnight's time.

Almost 60 per cent of Britain would now be on the original 'green list' permitting travellers to return from abroad without facing burdensome self-isolation requirements, official Covid figures revealed today.

Department of Health statistics showed 218 of 380 councils had a coronavirus infection rate below 20 cases per 100,000 in the week to April 27, the latest available.

Last summer ministers slapped arduous 14-day quarantine requirements on travellers arriving from countries with infection rates above that level. The self-isolation period for all foreign travel has now been shortened to ten days but holidays abroad are still banned until at least May 17.

Figures also showed nine in ten local authorities saw their outbreaks shrink in April. Only Selby in North Yorkshire now has an infection rate above 100 per 100,000. For comparison, there were 23 authorities above that level at the end of March.

Experts said all figures were looking 'very optimistic', suggesting Britain was 'over the worst' of the pandemic and would never again see the spiralling Covid deaths and hospitalisations as in the darkest days of January because of the mammoth vaccination roll-out. More than 50million jabs have now been dished out.
Authorities say a man who shot and killed two people and wounded a third at an Ashwaubenon casinos restaurant before police killed him on Saturday had been fired from the eatery and banned from the property.

Brown County Sheriff Todd Delain said on Monday that the 62-year-old attacker walked into the Duck Creek Kitchen and Bar on Saturday and shot two people at a waiter station at close range with a 9 mm handgun, then shot and wounded a man outside the restaurant.

The shooter was identified as Bruce Pofahl, 62. Pofahl, a former food and beverage director at the restaurant, was shot and killed by police.

WBAY-TV reports Ian Simpson, 32, and Jacob Bartel, 35, were shot and killed at the restaurant.

A third employee, Dan Mulligan, is being treated at a hospital in Milwaukee. Delain says Mulligan, 28, is in serious but stable condition.

Another of his former colleagues, Dan Robinson, was shot and life-flighted to hospital, where he is said to be in a stable condition.

There were 50 people in the restaurant at the time of the shooting, Delain said, many of whom tried to immediately flee the premises as bullets began flying.

Ian Simpson, 32, has been named as one of two men shot and killed at the Oneida Casino in Green Bay, Wisconsin, on Sunday night by disgruntled ex-employee Bruce Pofahl

Jacob Bartel, 35, was also shot and killed. Pofahl had turned up to see another worker he is said to have had a 'personal relationship' with, but shot three of his co-workers instead, killing two

A State Patrol officer blocked the road in front of the Oneida Casino in Green Bay, Wisconsin on Saturday, following reports of an active shooter

Lt. Kevin Pawlak, pictured at the microphones, said it appeared that Bruce Pofahl, 62, was targeting a specific individual in the shooting, but did not identify them

Pofahl's supervisor at the restaurant, Elizabeth Walker, took out a restraining order against him in March, online court records show. It is unclear if she was the person he had been trying to speak to on the night of the shooting.

She wrote in her petition that Pofhal had recently been fired for 'a few things, including harassment,' and had been sending her texts and emails threatening her and her family for several weeks.

One message read 'times (sic) up', while another warned he would ruin her sister's wedding, Walker wrote. He also sent her photos of her home, she wrote.

Pofahl declined to attend a hearing on the order, saying in a note to the court that he suffered from high blood pressure and diabetes and was afraid he'd catch COVID-19 in the courtroom.

A court commissioner granted the restraining order but did not prohibit Pofahl from possessing a firearm.

Police stood guard outside the Casino and restaurant in the early morning hours of May 2

The shooting Saturday night happened at the Oneida Casino in Green Bay, Wisconsin, leaving three - including the shooter - dead and one man serious injured

As people were yelling and screaming, he said, Pofahl went outside and shot another restaurant employee, 28-year-old Daniel Mulligan. A team of three officers then returned fire on Pofahl, killing him.

Delain defended the officers decision to fire on Pofahl, saying 'certainly this individual was a threat,' but the officers involved in the fatal shooting have been placed on administrative leave.

Mulligan, meanwhile, had to have his jaw wired shut at a Milwaukee hospital on Monday, his sister, Caitlin, posted on a GoFundMe for Mulligan's medical expenses on May 2.

'This all seems like a bad nightmare and we are waiting to wake up,' Caitlin wrote, but thanked everyone who raised over $22,000 for her brother.

'We are so overwhelmed with all of your love, and grateful for your support.'

Daniel Mulligan was also injured in the shooting and underwent emergency surgery. He had to have his jaw wired shut

Daniel Mulligan's sister, Caitlin, set up a GoFundMe for Mulligan's medical expenses after he was lifeflighted from the casino for emergency hospital treatment

The restaurant is part of an Oneida Nation hotel, casino and conference center complex on the tribe's reservation just west of the city of Green Bay. The complex employs 150 to 200 people.

Delain, meanwhile, reiterated on Monday that the attack was 'targeted,' but he declined to elaborate beyond saying that investigators were looking into Pofahl's relationships with former co-workers.

Walker wrote in her restraining order petition that the Oneida were aware of Pofahl's threats.

The tribe's vice chairman, Brandon Stevens, declined to discuss what he called 'personnel matters' during the news conference, saying investigators were still gathering information.

Online court records didn't list any other civil or criminal cases against Pofahl

Oneida Chairman Tehassi Hill, however, told WLUK-TV on Sunday that the tribe prohibits firearms on its properties but that '(mass shootings are) kind of a regular thing in this country.'

Hill said he feels security is tight at the casino, but that the tribe may have to consider tougher protocols for the complex.
Dominic Raab today lavished praise on President Joe Biden while US Secretary of State Antony Blinken insisted Washington has 'no closer partner' than the UK as they launched a mutual charm offensive to repair the Special Relationship.

Mr Raab and Mr Blinken held a press conference this evening in which the Foreign Secretary spoke of his 'huge pleasure' at welcoming his US counterpart to the UK.

The Foreign Secretary was full of warm words for the Biden White House as he said it had already taken 'a huge number of bold and very welcome steps' on the world stage.

Meanwhile, Mr Blinken said the Special Relationship is 'enduring', 'effective' and 'dynamic' as well as being 'close to the hearts of the American people.

The mutual praise will be viewed as a clear attempt by both sides to repair any damage done to the links between Washington and London during Donald Trump's time in the White House.

Dominic Raab today lavished praise on President Joe Biden while US Secretary of State Antony Blinken insisted Washington has 'no closer partner' than the UK as they launched a mutual charm offensive to repair the Special Relationship

The Foreign Secretary was full of warm words for the Biden White House as he said it had already taken 'a huge number of bold and very welcome steps' on the world stage

The Special Relationship was strained during Mr Trump's presidency due to disagreements on a variety of issues like Nato military spending and climate change.

Mr Raab and Mr Blinken signalled a reset in relations as they spoke at a press conference this evening.

Mr Raab said: It is a huge pleasure to welcome Secretary of State Blinken to the UK. Tony, it is great to have you here with us, a warm welcome.

I think it is fair to say the Biden administration is barely 100 days old but has already taken a huge number of bold and very welcome steps on issues like climate change, global health and human rights, and that has really created momentum in efforts to tackle these pressing global issues.

Since Tonys confirmation, we have been working very closely together and todays meeting has been another reminder of the depth and breadth of the work that we do together.

He added: Tony, again, thanks for being here, thanks for our valuable discussions today and I look forward and we look forward, to welcoming President Biden to the UK in June.

Mr Biden's first overseas visit as US President will be to the G7 summit in Cornwall next month.

Mr Blinken said Mr Biden is 'very much looking forward to being here for the G7'.

The US Secretary of State also said he is 'looking forward to the opportunity to meet with Prime Minister Johnson tomorrow'.

Mr Blinken said the Special Relationship is 'enduring', 'effective' and 'dynamic' as well as being 'close to the hearts of the American people

Mr Raab and Mr Blinken held a press conference this evening in which the Foreign Secretary spoke of his 'huge pleasure' at welcoming his US counterpart to the UK

On the Special Relationship, he said: It is also the 75th anniversary of Winston Churchills famous speech at Westminster College in Missouri where he described the Special Relationship between the United Kingdom and the United States and how vital it is for our two countries and many others around the world.

Three quarters of a century later, that Special Relationship is enduring, it is effective, it is dynamic and it is close to the hearts of the American people.

He added: The United States has no closer ally, no closer partner, than the United Kingdom and I am very glad for the chance to say that again here today.
The GO stated that the endowments department is claiming that an extent of 1,521 acres belonging to the said temple had been encroached allegedly by Eatala and a few other individuals. (Photo: Facebook @Eatala Rajendar)

Hyderabad: The state government has tightened noose around senior TRS leader and former minister Etala Rajendar further on Monday with Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao ordering a comprehensive probe into the alleged encroachments of temple lands at Devarayamjal village of Shamirpet mandal in Medchal-Malkajgiri district.

While Eatala is already in the thick of controversy over encroaching assigned lands and yet to recover from the shock of removal from the Cabinet on Sunday, the state government issued orders to this effect on Monday.

According to the Government Order (GO) issued by Chief Secretary Somesh Kumar, the state government had received several complaints about large scale encroachments and illegal transactions of lands belonging to Lord Seetha Rama Swamy temple located at Devarayamjal.

The GO stated that the endowments department is claiming that an extent of 1,521 acres belonging to the said temple had been encroached allegedly by Eatala and a few other individuals. It is reported that these individuals have unlawfully occupied large extents of temple lands in their own names as well as in benami names.

It is reported that the value of the land encroached is more than Rs 1,000 crore and the temple has been defrauded of such high-value properties. It has also been reported that large constructions have been made on these lands without any valid permissions and in flagrant violation of several laws.

Besides gravely hurting the sentiments of the devotees and the donors, it is alleged that these actions constitute grave violations of several laws in force, the GO said. Somesh Kumar said the government had ordered a detailed inquiry into the issue by a committee of officials comprising panchayat raj commissioner M. Raghunanandan Rao, Nalgonda District Collector Prashanth Jeevan Patil, Mancherial Collector Bharati Holikari and Medchal-Malkajgiri Collector Swetha Mohanty.

The committee has been asked to conduct a detailed enquiry and submit a report on the details of encroachers and the lands encroached upon; the nature of encroachment and present usage; details of documents possessed by the encroachers, violation of existing government regulations, extent of vacant land, extent of land under encroachment by the benamis and the influential persons behind them, extent of revenue loss to the temple and recommended action.

The committee was asked to submit a report to the government 'at the earliest' without specifying any timeframe.
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell predicted that 'zero' Republicans in his chamber would back President Joe Biden's infrastructure proposal and 'American families plan.'

McConnell, who has previously blasted Biden's infrastructure and other spending proposals  as well as tax hikes that would pay for them  re-upped his criticism after a group of Republicans got behind a $568 billion infrastructure proposal.

'I think I can pretty safely say none of my Republican colleagues are going to support a $4.1 trillion infrastructure package, only part of which is for infrastructure,' he said.

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell said there would be 'zero' GOP support  'none'  for President Joe Biden's $4 trillion in proposed spending on infrastructure and 'human infrastructure'

Biden and other Republicans have slammed Biden for his definition of infrastructure, which includes spending to expand broadband technology and replace lead pipes across the country.

Biden has also come out with a $1.8 trillion 'human infrastructure' plan, which includes funding for job training, universal pre-K, and free community college.

'If it's going to be about infrastructure, let's make it about infrastructure. And I think there's some sentiment on the Democratic side for splitting it off,' McConnell said.

He may have been referencing efforts by Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin (W.Va.) to negotiate with Republicans on their offer to reach a potential compromise.

Manchin last week called the GOP offer a 'good start,' and spoke of the benefits of negotiating a solution.

President Joe Biden has invited GOP Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (W.Va.) to the White House

McConnell was the subject of weekend reports about the Brent Spence Bridge over the Ohio river. The crossing is considered to be in critical need of expansion

Senator Susan Collins, a Republican from Maine, speaks to members of the media after meeting with U.S. President Joe Biden at the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., on Monday, Feb. 1, 2021. The $600 billion GOP proposal offered to the president by 10 Republican senators provides the potential to move a bipartisan bill that includes components from the Biden proposal

'And they have worked it together. So, we know it has bipartisan support,' Manchin said on CNN's 'State of the Union' last week.

'We just have to look to see if we have gotten everything in there that we need. And we will be working on that together. So, I'm very, very pleased with that.'

Depending on what happens with Senate Republicans, Democratic leaders must decide whether to try to move Biden's proposals under budget 'reconciliation' procedures. That would allow it to pass on a simple majority  but they would still need support from Manchin and other Democrats in the 50-50 Senate.

Depending on how they craft reconciliation instructions, Democrats could move one or even two packages, or combine them into a single package.

I dont think there will be any Republican support  none, zero  for the $4.1 trillion grab bag that has infrastructure in it but a whole lot of other stuff,' said McConnell, conflating the two plans.
Two top House Republicans are demanding the Biden administration hand over documents related to his plan to send $4 billion in aid to Central American countries to deal with the 'root causes' of migration.

Rep. James Comer, the ranking member of the House Oversight Committee, and Rep. Jason Smith, the ranking member of the House Budget Committee, wrote a letter to acting Office of Management and Budget Director Shalanda Young and called Biden's plan to send $4 billion over four years to Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador 'naive and misguided.'

'In the midst of a border crisis propelled by the Biden Administration reversing successful deterrent policies, it is worrisome that the Administration's solution isn't to reinstate those policies or replace them with workable solutions, but instead to funnel more money to pay countries to dissuade their citizens to break U.S. laws, particularly countries with corruption concerns,' said the letter, which was first obtained by Fox News.

Rep. James Comer (left), the ranking member of the House Oversight Committee, and Rep. Jason Smith (right), the ranking member of the House Budget Committee, wrote a letter demanding documents about a plan to send $4 billion to Northern Triangle countries

Reuters reported last month that the Biden administration was considering a conditional cash transfer program to Northern Triangle countries to address the 'root' causes of migration, as migrants from Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador have been flooding the U.S. border

Central American families wait to be processed by U.S. Border Patrol agents near the U.S.-Mexico border last month in La Joya, Texas. Biden has proposed sending $4 billion over four years to the Northern Triangle countries, so stop migrants from coming north

Migrants are questioned by police in Corinto, Honduras, on in March before trying to cross the border into Guatemala, hoping to travel onwards to Mexico and the United States

Border Patrol agents apprehend a group of migrants near downtown El Paso, Texas in mid-March

Reuters reported last month that the Biden administration was considering a conditional cash transfer program to help address economic woes that lead migrants from certain Central American countries to trek north.

The potential program would be targeted at people in the Northern Triangle region of Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador, Roberta Jacobson, the White House's now former southern border coordinator, told Reuters in an interview.

She didn't say exactly who would receive cash.

Roughly 168,000 people were picked up by U.S. Border Patrol agents at the U.S.-Mexico border in March, the highest monthly tally since March 2001 and part of steadily increasing arrivals in recent months.

'We're looking at all of the productive options to address both the economic reasons people may be migrating, as well as the protection and security reasons,' Jacobson said.

She did not provide a detailed explanation of how a cash transfer program would work.

'The one thing I can promise you is the U.S. government isn't going to be handing out money or checks to people,' she added.

House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy criticized the plan last month.

'It's insulting to the millions of Americans who are out of work or facing despair in our country,' he said.

Biden has called for $4 billion in development aid to Central America over four years to address underlying causes of migration.

In early April, the White House requested $861 million from Congress for that effort in Biden's first annual budget proposal.

That would be a sharp increase from the roughly $500 million in aid this year.

Balking at the price tag, Comer and Smith wrote, 'Unlike the Trump Administration, which leveraged the use of aid to secure actual cooperation from Northern Triangle countries on migration issues, the Biden Administration has simply announced this "commitment" with apparently no strings attached.'

'The strategy of sending cash payments to foreign countries to stem the tide of illegal immigration caused by Biden administration policies is naive and misguided,' the lawmakers write. 'Moreover, the countries identified as potential recipients include some of the most corrupt countries in the world, with El Salvador and Guatemala ranking in the top ten.'

The congressmen were likely citing a U.S. News & World Report ranking of the 10 most corrupt countries, ranked by perception.

The April 2021 ranking puts Guatemala at No. 6 and El Salvador at No. 9.

No. 1 is Iraq.

In U.S. News' overall Best Countries ranking, Guatemala comes in 69th and El Salvador 77th out of 78 nations.
A migrant from Honduras died and another was injured after they were struck by a U.S. Border Patrol vehicle while hiding in tall grass.

The unnamed man was struck and killed in Kennedy County, Texas, last Thursday shortly after illegally crossing into the US from Mexico.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection said in a statement that the border officers were surveying an area in Kennedy County on Thursday after they came across fresh footprints left behind by migrants that has passed through.

Border patrol agents on foot and in vehicles were inspecting the area that is surrounded by tall, thick grass that is also mixed with an area of taller vegetation and encountered two groups of migrants.

The officers later detected a third group, which informed them that a man who had crossed the border with them had been been hit by a vehicle.

The injured individual was located in a nearby grass area and led the border patrol officers to another fatally-wounded migrant.

A migrant family from Central America approached a U.S. Border Patrol vehicle moments after crossing the United States-Mexico border in El Paso, Texas, on February 5

U.S. Border Patrol agents take asylum seekers into custody on March 23, 2021 in McAllen, Texas

An air ambulance arrived at the scene and pronounced the man dead. The other injured man was airlifted to a hospital in Harlingen for treatment.

According to an initial accident report filed by U.S. Border Patrol, the border officers 'were not aware anyone was burrowed in the grass nor were they aware anyone had been run over by a vehicle until informed by a migrant.'

The injured migrant was treated and discharged from hospital, and is expected to make a full recovery from his wounds.

A group of migrants wait in line to be processed and loaded onto a bus by U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents after being detained when they crossed illegally into the United States from Mexico on June 02, 2019

CBP did not say whether the man was taken into custody following his hospital discharge.

The incident is being investigated by the Kenedy County Sheriffs Office (KCSO) and CBP Office of Professional Responsibility (CBP OPR).

A CBP monthly report released April 8 showed the number of migrants unlawfully crossing the United States-Mexico international borderline had risen to record levels.

Border patrol officers detained 172,331 migrants during March after stopping 101,028 people in February. The 70% increase is a 20-year record high.

The agency's data also reported 18,663 unaccompanied children were taken into custody in March, a 99% increase from the 9,271 migrant minors who were stopped for illegally crossing over from Mexico in February.

Figures for the month of April are slate to be released next week.
President Joe Biden on Monday told America's wealthy and corporations that it is time to start paying their 'fair share' in taxes in speech pushing his ambitious infrastructure and social spending sprees.

'Is it more important to shield millionaires from paying their fair share, or is it more important that every child gets a real opportunity to succeed from an early age and ease the burden on working families,' the president said during a visit to Tidewater Community College in Portsmouth, Virginia.

Biden, along with Jill Biden, were in the southern part of Virginia, as the Biden administration starts a blitzkrieg to sell its $4.1 trillion in federal spending package amid negotiations with Republicans.

Monday's focus was on education. Their first stop was at Yorktown Elementary School where the first couple heard from fifth graders about what it was like having school at home. The Bidens then visited the community college. As part of his American Families Plan, Biden wants to offer two years free community college tuition to all Americans.

Both his $2.3 trillion American Jobs Plan and his $1.8 trillion American Families Plan feature heavy education components - everything from money to fix school buildings and replace old pipes to funds for free universal pre-K and more teachers.

The president plans to pay for his jobs plan with a hike on corporate tax rates from 21 percent to 28 percent and impose a global minimum tax on corporations. To pay for his families plan, he would hike the tax rate on capital gains to 39.6 percent and raise the rate for the top one 1 percent of income earners to 38.6 percent.

Republicans countered that the rise in corporate taxes would send companies and jobs overseas. They say the families plan - which includes a massive amount of social programs for education, paid family and medical leave and extended tax cuts for low-and- middle income workers - is a non-starter.

GOP House Minority Leader Mitch McConnell said on Monday that none of the Senators in his party would back Biden's plans, vowed to fight the reversal of Trump's 2017 tax hikes and the costs to be slimmed down to $600billion.

Biden defended his approach, saying he's asking for people and companies to pay their share.

'It doesn't add a single penny to our deficit, it's paid for by making sure corporate America and the wealthiest 1%,' he said of his proposals. 'Just pay their fair share. I come from the corporate capital of the world. More corporations are incorporated in the state of Delaware, and all the rest of the nation combined. And I'm not anti corporate, but it's about time they start paying their fair share.'

President Joe Biden argued he isnt raising taxes to pay for his ambitious $2.1 trillion plans on infrastructure and social programs but asking corporations and the wealthy to 'pay their fair share'

First lady Jill Biden applauds President Joe Biden after his remarks

President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden, tour an HVAC workshop at Tidewater Community College, in Portsmouth, Va.

First lady Jill Biden, a fulltime teacher, helped President Biden sell the education component of his jobs and families plans

Joe Biden's tax hikes targeting the rich: Who will have to pay Capital gains tax on investment sales for those earning more than $1million a year: Current law: 20% Proposal: 39.6% With an effective rate of 43.4% when the Medicare surcharge is added. Investors currently pay 23.8% as the top capital gains rate along with the 3.8% net investment income tax, known as the Medicare surtax. Around 500,000 people in the US, or 0.32% of the population, have recorded a gross income of over $1million. For those earning more than $1 million in high-tax states, the total rate will be even higher given the combined federal and state tax capital gains. In New York it could be as high as 52.22% and for Californians it could be 56.7% Wealthy residents pay Capital Gains on the growth in value of investments when they are sold. They are mainly placed on profitable stock trades and real estate deals. They can also apply to sales of collectible cars, art, businesses, gold. Investors are taxed on the difference between what they paid for the asset and what they sold it for. Investments held for at least one year tops out at 20% and those held under a year are taxed the same as salaries and wages. An additional 3.8% tax applies to those earning at least $200,000. The US rate ranks in the middle of countries around the world. Investors generally support lower capital gains tax because they say it rewards entrepreneurship and encourages people to sell what they own. Corporate taxes Current top rate: 21% Proposed top rate: 28% These hikes have already been proposed in the first part of his infrastructure plan. He is also targeting US firms' profits overseas and companies who use offshore businesses. Biden has still vowed that no one earning under $400,000 a year will pay more taxes in his administration. Advertisement

In his remarks, Biden pointed out the amount of people hurt by the coronavirus pandemic, including a disproportionate number of women.

He also argued Republican voters, along with some mayors and governors, support his approach. He needs at least 10 Republican senators to support his proposals to move them through the Senate.

'This will grow the economy,' he said. 'I think there's overwhelming bipartisan support for this. If you look at the polling data, Republican voters overwhelmingly support it. Now I just got to get some of my Republican colleagues to support.'

But Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell said on Monday that none of his Republicans would support either Biden's jobs plan nor his families proposal.

'I think I can pretty safely say none of my Republican colleagues are going to support a $4.1 trillion infrastructure package, only part of which is for infrastructure,' McConnell said.

As part of their tour, the Bidens visited a classroom that taught HVAC repair where they watched a demonstration and chatted with students.

Earlier Monday, the first couple visited an elementary school where a group of fifth graders gave them their honest assessment of what it was like learning from home, sharing how they didn't like it but at least could sneak in naps.

The kids at Yorktown Elementary School are back in the classroom four days a week (Wednesday is for cleaning) and sat at desks with plastic shields around the them. Everyone wore face masks.

President Biden reminded the kids that the first lady teaches full time and asked them how they liked learning from home.

'It was a little difficult with all the glitches,' one girl said. 'I definitely prefer it this way though.'

One boy chimed in: 'I didn't like virtual. It was terrible.'

Another student pointed out when their teacher Mrs. Bertamini was helping someone else 'you could eat.'

And another noted: 'If we were really tired we could take a little nap.'

Jill Biden, who teaches at a Northern Virginia Community College, laughed and said her students do the same.

'You just turn off the camera. I've seen that,' the first lady said.

Republicans have criticized Biden for not opening schools soon enough but none of them voted for the $1.9 trillion COVID relief bill that contained money to help schools reopen - extra cleaning, supplies, and more staff and teachers. Biden has said he wants schools to reopen safely.

The president also asked the kids what they wanted to be when the grew up and got a variety of answers: a fashion designer, a chef, a hair stylist.

The students were working on a project where they were designing structures in case they were shipwrecked. The school has a lot of children of military members as Naval Weapons Station Yorktown is nearby.

Some of the less optimistic students were planning where to bury their teacher should their shelter fail.

'In case I fail, I'm going to bury my teacher right here,' one student said.

'I think your teacher can handle it,' Jill Biden noted.

'That's pretty cool,' the president said.

En route there, the Bidens stopped the presidential motorcade in front of the local high school, where they greeted a group of students and staff, including a group of Navy ROTC.

The two plans Biden is pitching includes $1 trillion in spending on education and childcare over 10 years and $800 billion in tax credits aimed at middle- and low-income families. It also includes a proposal for universal pre-K, two year college tuition and more money for teachers.

The first couple, who wore face masks as they left the White House, are kicking off a weeklong push by the Biden administration to sell its massive social welfare and infrastructure plans.

The first lady heads out West on Wednesday to visit Utah, Nevada and Colorado. Vice President Kamala Harris will be in Milwaukee on Tuesday and in Providence, R.I., on Wednesday. Doug Emhoff will visit the Lehigh Valley on a Wednesday. President Biden visits Connecticut on Wednesday and New Orleans on Thursday.

President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden were welcomed to a fifth grade classroom at Yorktown Elementary School on Monday

After their school stop and on their way to the next location, President Biden stopped the motorcade at Yorktown High School to greet well wishers

President Biden posed for a photo with the little boy

President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden examined the structures student built to show what they would do in case of a shipwreck

President Biden also asked the kids what they wanted to be when they grew up

One less optimistic student was planning where to bury his teacher if his structure failed

President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden headed to Yorktown, Virginia, on Monday as his administration starts a blitzkrieg to sell its $4.1 trillion in federal spending package

The Bidens will visit two schools - Yorktown Elementary School and Tidewater Community College

Polls show conflicted feelings over Biden's $2.3 trillion jobs package - a massive infrastructure bill that Republicans have criticized for containing items other than tradition infrastructure, such as housing for the elderly and a Climate Corp.

An April Ipsos Poll found that only 45% supported the plan but many elements in the proposal had strong support, such as the repair or replacement of American ports, railways, bridges, and highways (79%) and investing in home-based care for the elderly or disabled (78%).

Biden plans to pay for his ambitious jobs agenda with a hike in corporate taxes.

He'll also be pitching his second proposal, a $1.8 trillion families plan he laid out in his speech to Congress last week. Called a 'human infrastructure' bill, it focuses on social programs such as education and health care and is funded through a tax hike on the wealthy.

Many of the items - the expanded Child Tax Credit, expanded paid family and medical leave, free tuition and universal pre-K - poll well with voters.

The president has pushed for schools to reopen safely and included money for that in his COVID rescue package that Congress passed in March.

'He does believe that schools should be able to reopen in September, and reopen safely, following the CDC guidelines,' White House senior adviser Anita Dunn said Sunday on CNN's State of the Union.

But, she noted, it's an 'unpredictable virus' and 'we can't look in a crystal ball and say what September looks like.'

Republicans are balking at the cost of Biden's proposals and the expanded role in government the programs would bring.

They've countered Biden's infrastructure plan with a smaller proposal of their own that focuses on tradition items and have called the president's families plan a nonstarter.

Later this week, Jill Biden will head to the West Coast and Joe Biden goes to New Orleans

Jill Biden's face mask had pearl details on its bands, which matched her pearl bracelet

President Biden gave Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam an elbow bump when he and first lady Jill were greeted by Northam and wife Pamela Northam upon their arrival in Newport News, Va.

Democrats control both chambers of Congress but hold a narrow margin in the House. In the Senate, Biden needs at least 10 Republican votes to move his proposals through the legislative process.

As part of negotiations, Biden will host congressional leaders in both parties in the White House next week on May 12. It's a different step from negotiations in the $1.9 trillion COVID relief plan passed in March, which did not garner a single Republican vote.

'We're going to work with Republicans. We're going to find common ground. You know, the Senate last week passed by an overwhelming margin, a part of a water infrastructure bill that's part of- related to our jobs plan. So I think you're starting to see some progress here,' White House chief of staff Ron Klain said on CBS' 'Face the Nation' on Sunday.

The president is considering breaking up his American Jobs Plan in separate bills to help shepherd them through Congress.

'President Biden has been clear that he knows this is a negotiation, that he knows that negotiation requires compromise at some point, and that he wants to move this package forward in a bipartisan way, if that's possible,' senior White House adviser Anita Dunn said Sunday on CNN's State of the Union. 'We're looking forward to having discussions. We are open to people's ideas. This is discussion time and idea time for the White House.'

That plan, which focuses on infrastructure, has Republican support on traditional items like repairing roads and bridges along with expanding broadband internet access.

The GOP has pitched a a $568 billion plan that focuses on roads, transit systems, and broadband internet.

'Frankly, if the White House is going to work with us, this is a deal we can do,' Republican Senator Rob Portman said Sunday on 'Meet the Press.'
Justice Clarence Thomas said Monday that a West Point cadet should be able to sue over her alleged rape on campus after the Supreme Court declined to hear the case.

The woman - named only as Jane Doe - claims she was attacked by a classmate in 2010. She left the school three months after the alleged assault.

She then launched a lawsuit against the military training school in an attempt to sue two senior officers, arguing the academy - where she joined as a cadet in 2008 - failed to address its 'pervasive and well-known culture of sexual violence'.

Doe said it did not provide 'appropriate medical and emotional support.'

But the court declined to hear her case Monday, citing the 1946 Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA), The Hill reports.

Under the FTCA U.S. citizens can bring federal lawsuits against the government - but a 1950 ruling, Feres v. United States, means that service members are often exempt.

Justice Thomas said the court should reconsider the 1950 ruling.

Justice Clarence Thomas, pictired, said Monday that a West Point cadet should be able to sue over her alleged rape on campus after the Supreme Court declined to hear the case

Justice Thomas wrote: 'Under our precedent, if two Pentagon employeesone civilian and one a servicememberare hit by a bus in the Pentagon parking lot and sue, it may be that only the civilian would have a chance to litigate his claim on the merits.

'Nothing in the text of the Act requires this disparate treatment.

'Nor is there any background rule that federal bus drivers owe a greater duty of care toward workers who are civilian than those who are military.'

Thomas noted Doe 'could have brought these same claims had she been a civilian contractor employed by West Point instead of a student.'

Other Justices Antonin Scalia, Ruth Bader Ginsburg and John Paul Stevens have all previously criticized the ruling.

The woman - named only as Jane Doe - claims she was attacked by a classmate in 2010. She left the school three months after the alleged assault. She then launched a lawsuit against the military training school, arguing the academy - where she joined as a cadet in 2008 - failed to address its 'pervasive and well-known culture of sexual violence' (stock image)

Thomas added: 'Perhaps the Court is hesitant to take up this issue at all because it would require fiddling with a 70-year-old precedent that is demonstrably wrong.

'But if the Feres doctrine is so wrong that we cannot figure out how to rein it in, then the better answer is to bid it farewell.'

The woman's attorney has not commented on the ruling as of Monday afternoon.
Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin said former President Donald Trump 'called me all the time' and said he was ready 'to stay and fight' during the Capitol riot.

In a new interview with USA Today, the West Virginian who's become the Senate's pivotal swing vote, talked about his chummy relationship with Trump, while still holding the ex-president accountable for the events of January 6.

'I didn't know there was that type of fever and pent-up hatred in people he allowed them to unleash,' Manchin said.

Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin said in an interview with USA Today that former President Donald Trump, a Republican, called him all the time. He also said he wanted 'to stay and fight' during the January 6 MAGA riot

Manchin said he 'got along with Donald Trump (pictured). We had a good rapport. he called me all the time. We talked back and forth'

Manchin said he had gotten accustomed to Trump's rhetoric and didn't realize what a danger it presented until the Capitol riot (pictured) on January 6

Manchin suggested he had gotten accustomed to Trump's rhetoric and didn't realize what a danger it presented until the Capitol riot.

'I heard the Trump rhetoric forever,' he said.

'I got along with Donald Trump. We had a good rapport. He called me all the time. We talked back and forth,' he continued.

Manchin added that Trump 'liked conflicts and he liked that turmoil.'

'And that's fine if you're in business. But for public service, it doesnt work,' the Democrat continued. 'The whole principle of public service is to bring people together to get a consensus. And Donald Trump's not made that way.'

It all came to a head when thousands of Trump supporters broke into the Capitol Building on January 6.

Manchin, who's 6-foot-3, told USA Today he wanted to take the rioters on.

'My intention was to stay and fight: "Let 'em in. Let's go at it.' But I didn't know what was going on,' the 73-year-old senator said. 'You had a lot of people chanting. I didn't think anything of that. But within 10 or 15 minutes, a SWAT team comes in with all of their gear and says "You guys are out of here. Just go now. Don't even stop."'

Senators and House members were gathered in their respective chambers as the counting of Electoral College votes had been halted as Republicans filed an objection to Arizona's, and later Pennsylvania's, vote counts.

Lawmakers were rushed to safety by Capitol Police and other law enforcement officers as the MAGA mob stormed the Capitol.

Manchin said he learned from that day, 'Politically, more than anything else. How fragile we are. How close we came to losing our country.'

But he also said the MAGA riot made him want to keep the filibuster in place - meaning that for most bills in the Senate, a 60-vote threshold, and thus bipartisan compromise, would be needed.

'It gave me more determination [to fight for the filibuster,]' he told the newspaper. 'If you want to lose it completely and you want to be a government that was not how we were formed to try and be a more perfect union - not perfect, but more perfect - this is not the way to do it.'

Both parties have eroded the filibuster in recent years - first scrapping it for some judicial nominations and then applying it to the Supreme Court as well.

However, it remains available to hold up most legislation in the Senate, with some Democrats pushing to get rid of it so they can pass bills with their current 51-vote majority.
An Asian woman was struck in the head with a hammer in Midtown Manhattan by a woman who rounded on her for wearing a face mask, police say.

According to the police, the 31-year-old victim was confronted by another woman - said by an eyewitness to have been drunk - in Hell's Kitchen around 8.45pm on Sunday.

'Take off your mask,' the attacker was said to have demanded.

When the woman refused to remove her mask, the assailant allegedly whacked her with a hammer before fleeing on foot east on West 42nd Street toward Ninth Avenue.

A bystander shared video from the scene on Citizen, showing the victim inside an ambulance - and claiming that the attacker had been intoxicated.

This is the moment a 31 year-old Asian woman was loaded into the back of an ambulance in Hell's Kitchen on Sunday after she was attacked with a hammer for wearing a face mask, according to police

The attack took place outside the Manhattan Plaza complex in Hell's Kitchen on Sunday evening, pictured, along the bustling ninth avenue

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo last week announced that the state will adopt the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's new guidance on mask use, which states that fully vaccinated people no longer need to wear masks outdoors, except in crowded settings.

The victim of Sunday's attack was taken to NYU Langone Heath in stable condition to be treated for non-life-threatening lacerations.

The suspect was described as a woman in her 50s, about 5 foot 9 inches tall, wearing black jeans and a black tank top.

The NYPD said in an email to the DailyMail.com on Monday that the attack 'has been deemed possible bias' and the agency's Hate Crimes Task Force was looking into it.

No arrests had been made as of Monday afternoon.

Police say a tall woman in her 50s, who was possibly drunk, accosted the victim, who is pictured being taken to NYU Langone Health with non-life-threatening injuries

New York City has seen a wave of anti-Asian assaults since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic.

Last week, a 61-year-old Chinese immigrant had his head stomped on at least a half-dozen times while he was collecting cans in East Harlem.

Jarrod Powell, a 49-year-old homeless man with a lengthy criminal record, was later arrested and charged with attempted murder in that case.

In March, a Filipina-American woman was knocked to the ground and stomped on by a parolee who was previously convicted of killing his mother.

Police are investigating the attack as a possible hate crime, but no arrests have been made as of Monday afternoon

A report from the Center for the Study of Hate & Extremism at California State University, San Bernardino, found that antiAsian hate crimes surged 149 per cent while overall hate crime dropped 7 per cent in 2020.

The report indicated that the rise in anti-Asian crimes was attributed to 'a rise in COVID cases and negative stereotyping of Asians relating to the pandemic.'

Former President Donald Trump repeatedly called COVID-19 the 'Chinese virus,' and was accused of stoking hatred towards Asian-American people.
Food fans were stunned when one of the world's top restaurants announced it will only serve vegan food when it reopens next month - with one joking they'd make a killing serving hot dogs across the street.

Eleven Madison Park had long been renowned for its lavender honey-glazed duck, lobster and Hawaiian prawn roulade and duck with daikon and plum signature dishes.

But when the famous New York City restaurant reopens for the first time on June 10 since after being shuttered by COVID shutdowns last March, it will only serve plant-based food, owner Daniel Humm, 45, announced on Monday.

Explaining his restaurant's new philosophy on Instagram, Humm said: 'When we began to think about reopening EMP, we realized that not only has the world changed, but so have we.

'We have always operated with sensitivity to our surroundings, but it has become clear that the current food system is not sustainable,' he wrote. 'We knew we couldn't open the same restaurant.'

Eleven Madison Park's beloved duck meal will be replaced with dishes like rice porridge with celtuce (an underutilized and thick-stemmed lettuce). It will also serve Amaranth seed and sweet peas served with a creamy fermented almond cream and pea-miso puree, the Wall Street Journal reports.

Eleven Madison Park, on Madison Avenue in New York City, is one of the Big Apple's five three Michelin-starred restaurants

It is known for its signature lavender honey-glazed duck, lobster and Hawaiian prawn roulade and duck with daikon and plum signature dishes

But on May 3, owner Daniel Humm, pictured in 2008, announced the restaurant will only serve vegan options when it reopens on June 10

The restaurant - whose showbiz fans include Zayn Malik and his partner Gigi Hadid - will also serve a complex beetroot dish that requires 16 hours of preparation encompassing 12 steps. They include marinating the beet in a roasted herb and lettuce sauce, garlanding it with more herbs, and then service it in a special clay vase which is cracked open before the beet can be eaten.

But some things will stay the same. The restaurant - one of just five in New York City to hold three Michelin stars - will continue offering cow milk for coffee and tea, meaning it will not be entirely vegan.

Eleven Madison Park, which was named the World's Best Restaurant in 2017 by the World's Best Restaurant Awards - will also continue to offer non-plant based items for ultra-wealthy diners who book one of its three private dining spaces.

And Humm, who was said to be dating Apple founder Steve Jobs' widow Laurene in 2019, hinted to the Wall Street Journal that the old $335-a-head tasting menu price won't drop. He explained that preparing vegetables properly takes far more effort than meat.

One tweeter quickly joked at the new offering, writing: 'Free billion dollar idea: set up a hot dog cart across the street at around 10pm.'

A second said: 'Well, they're going to need a twelve Madison Park, because ain't no one gunna eat leaves for $500 a person.'

Cassandra Cavanaugh, meanwhile, tweeted it's 'all about the margins, at the expense of the diners,' calling the move to become vegan a 'profit motive dressed up on sanctimoniousness.'

Diane E. Knauf, however, said she has been to the restaurant and suspects 'it will remain stellar.'

'I am not vegetarian of vegan (although I try to minimize),' Knauf tweeted, 'if the menu looks interesting, I will probably go back.'

An Eleven Madison Park spokeswoman told DailyMail.com the full new menu will be released shortly before the restaurant's reopening.

Some Twitter users made fun of Humm for his decision to make the $335-per-person restaurant vegan-only

The restaurant closed during the pandemic, and Humm had to lay off most of his employees, he said in an Instagram post Monday morning. He kept just a small team, he said, and prepared nearly one million meals for poverty-stricken New Yorkers.

'We were walking food to people's apartments, and just got to experience New York in a whole different way,' Humm told the Wall Street Journal. 'We saw how tough it is out there, but we also saw how many angels there are.'

The restaurant will now continue to offer five meals to New Yorkers in need for every meal purchased at EMP, delivered by its Eleven Madison Truck mobile food service.

Eleven Madison Park will only serve vegetable dishes, like this one, when it reopens in June

Humm announced the change on his Instagram Monday morning, with Eleven Madison Park set to reopen on June 10

Humm had became close with the farmers who supply EMP during the pandemic, the Wall Street Journal reports, and they told him how 'they are sitting on so much food that's getting spoiled, and they have to throw it away.'

He had previously co-founded Rethink Food with Matt Jozwiak, a former chef in his kitchen. The organization works with restaurants to transform food waste into meals.

'Our practices of animal production, what we're doing to the oceans, the amount we consume, it is not sustainable,' Humm said. 'If Eleven Madison Park is truly at the forefront of dining and culinary innovation, to me its crystal clear that this is the only place to go next.'

Still, he wrote, he stayed up many nights wondering if he made the right decision.

But when he would see what the kitchen had prepared, he said, 'What at first felt limiting began to feel freeing, and we are only scratching the surface.'

He said he does not want to 'lecture people' about the environment, but instead enrich them by 'showing a different way what a fine dining meal can be.'

His goal, he told The New York Times, is to create a restaurant where meat-eaters would be 'blown away' by eating veggies.

'When we set out on this journey we promised ourselves that we would only do this if the meal could be as delicious as it was before,' Humm told the Wall Street Journal. 'My goal is to create these beautiful dishes, give people experiences - unexpected, surprising experiences that make you feel as satisfied as a meal with meat would.'

Humm's London restaurant, Davies and Brook, however, will still offer meat options, and those who dine at EMP privately will be able to order them too.
Shocking surveillance camera footage captures the moment a gang of robbers blew up a Brazilian grocery store while trying to steal its two ATMs.

The footage shows the men arriving in two cars outside a supermarket in Salvador, Bahia, on Monday at 3:20 am local time.

An armed man fired a couple of shots with the military rifle he was toting at an unknown target across the street from the shop located in the Salvador neighborhood of Mussurunga.

His accomplice could then be seen in the background placing what appeared to be an explosive device.

A surveillance camera captures the shocking moment a grocery store was blown up by a gang in Bahia, Brazil, on Monday, while a gang of robbers tried to steal its two ATMs

The rubble of the ruined shop can be seen after Monday morning's blast. The robbers were unable to steal the ATMs they came to target, and fled empty-handed

Moments later, the explosion sent the grocery stores security gate flying across the opposite sidewalk.

Despite the massive blast, newspaper A Tarde reported that the thieves were unable to extract the money from the cash dispensing machines.

No arrests had been made as of Monday afternoon.

The Bahia Banking Union said the blast is the first incident in May after a total of 21 similar attacks against banks and and other financial institutions in the state were reported during the first four months of 2021.

The previous explosion took place Friday at 3:20am when a gang took a pedestrian hostage and blew up a Caixa Economica Federal agency in the Salvador town of Largo do Tanque.
Rudy Giuliani slammed the federal investigation surrounding him, claiming agents are 'trying to frame' him, that he broke no laws, and that they are only targeting lawyers who worked for Donald Trump.

Federal agents raided Giuliani's New York City home and office last Wednesday, seizing his electronics, as part of their investigation into whether the former mayor acted as an unregistered federal agent and lobbied the Trump administration in 2019 on behalf of Ukrainian officials and oligarchs.

'They are trying to frame me,' Giuliani told Fox News. 'They are trying to find something they can make into a crime, some technical violation, some mistake I made.'

He described the raid as 'out of control.'

'At about 6 a.m., there was a banging on my door - a very loud banging, and outside there was a group of an endless number of FBI agents,' he said.

He said he was targeted because of his work for Trump. He served as the personal attorney for the former president.

'The only lawyers they raid are lawyers for Donald Trump. I can't think of another lawyer that has been raided other than lawyers for Trump,' he told Fox News. 'Trump is in a special category because he doesn't have constitutional rights.'

His comments echo those of his son and his lawyer, both of whom claimed the investigation is political and that Giuliani is being targeted because of his ties to Trump.

Giuliani did tell Fox News the warrant was part of an investigation into his work for the Ukraine but said his contracts specifically rule out foreign lobbying.

'They showed me a warrant that sought the electronics in my apartment and purported to be about an alleged violation of the Foreign Agents Registration Act, FARA, for failure to file as a foreign agent on behalf of an unnamed Ukrainian official,' he said.

Giuliani said he 'never did this' and was 'shocked' because he had been offering to discuss the allegations with the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York.

He noted he used to run that office - Giuliani first made his name prosecuting the mob - and that he didn't break any laws.

'I know the criminal law and I do not violate it,' he said.

'My contracts have clauses that I will not act as a foreign agent, and I wanted to show these things to the government so that they would stop their consistent illegal leaking of an investigation,' Giuliani said.

Rudy Giuliani told Fox News that federal agents are trying to frame him

Giuliani also claimed he's a target because he was the personal lawyer for Donald Trump

Federal agents raided Rudy Giuliani's home and office in New York City last week as part of their investigation into his work into the Ukraine

Federal prosecutors have been looking at Giuliani and his work in the Ukraine for nearly 1-1/2 years. Last week's raid came after prosecutors stepped up their investigation into the former New York City mayor after it was put on hold last summer out of concerns it was too close to the election.

Giuliani's son Andrew accused the Department of Justice of conducting the raid for political reasons - and claims agents didn't want to take allegedly incriminating evidence involving Hunter Biden.

'Any American, whether you are red or blue, should be extremely disturbed by what happened here today, by the continued politicization,' a furious Andrew, 35, told reporters in the Upper East Side on the day of the raid.

'The only piece of evidence that they did not take up there today was the only piece of incriminating evidence that is in there  and it does not belong to my father, it belongs to the current president's son,' he added.

It's not clear what he was referring to. Giuliani claimed he obtained the materials from a laptop of Hunter Biden during the 2020 election and he also visited the Ukraine in December 2019.

But President Joe Biden said he was not given a head's up on the raid and that he learned about it at the same time as the public.

'I give you my word, I was not,' Biden said told NBC's Today Show.

'I made a pledge,' Biden continued. 'I would not interfere in any way  order or try to stop any investigation the Justice Department had in their way. I learned about that last night when the rest of the world learned about it.'

President Joe Biden said he had no idea federal agents were going to carry out a raid on Rudy Giuliani's apartment and office

Giuliani claimed Biden's son made millions of his work on the board of a gas company in the Ukraine and pushed Ukrainian officials to investigate the Bidens for corruption. The Bidens have not been charged with that crime. Hunter Biden is being investigated for his taxes.

Both Giuliani's lawyer and his son accused Biden's Justice Department of politicization, a charge made often against the department in President Donald Trump's administration when Trump would publicly pressure his attorneys general to follow his wishes on legal matters. Top DOJ officials would have had to approve the raid.

But Biden told NBC News he has not been briefed on Giuliani nor any other federal investigation.

Asked if he's been briefed about any other investigation, Biden said: 'No, and I'm not asking to be briefed  that's the Justice Department's independent judgment.'

He went on to criticize the Trump administration's handling of the DoJ, saying officials 'politicized the Justice Department so badly, so many of them quit, so many left.'

'That's not the role of the president to say who should be prosecuted, when they should be prosecuted, who should not be prosecuted. That's not the role of the president. The Justice Department is the people's lawyer, not the president's lawyer,' Biden said.

Meanwhile, Giuliani's lawyer Robert Costello blamed the investigation on 'Trump derangement syndrome' and also accused agents of ignoring Hunter's hard drives during their search.

'Keep in mind that the agents could not read the physical hard drives without plugging them in, but they took Mr. Giuliani's word that the hard drives were copies of Hunter Biden's hard drive and did not contain anything pertaining to Mr. Giuliani,' Costello said in a statement.

'Their reliance on Mr. Giuliani's credibility tells you everything you need to know about this case,' he added.

'It is outrageous that the Trump Derangement Syndrome has gone so far that hatred has driven this unjustified and unethical attack on the United States Attorney and Mayor who did more to reduce crime than virtually any other in American history,' Costello said.

The Giuliani team took a page from the Trump playbook, fighting the accusations with charges of their own against a political rival.

New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio said Thursday that Giuliani, who was universally hailed for his leadership after the September 11th attacks, 'has come unhinged.'

'It's a sad thing to have to say about a predecessor,' de Blasio said on MSNBC's 'Morning Joe.' 'But Rudy Giuliani has just come unhinged in every sense. He attached himself to Donald Trump but then went even farther and decided to be one of the most extreme voices in the Trump world.'

Andrew Giuliani blasted accused President Joe Biden's Justice Department for playing politics after agents raided his father's apartment and office

The federal investigation centers on whether Giuliani, who was Donald Trump's personal attorney, acted as an unregistered federal agent and lobbied the Trump administration in 2019 on behalf of Ukrainian officials and oligarchs.

Giuliani's lawyer Robert Costello blamed the investigation on 'Trump derangement syndrome' and also a accused agents of ignoring Hunter's hard drives during their search

Those were the same group of people who were helping Giuliani search for dirt on Joe Biden and his son Hunter, who sat on the board of Ukrainian gas company, during the 2020 election in an effort to help Trump politically.

Under the Foreign Agents Registration Act, or FARA, it is a federal crime to try to influence or lobby the US government at the request or direction of a foreign official without disclosing it to the Justice Department.

The United States Attorney's office in Manhattan and the FBI had wanted to execute the warrant on Giuliani's Upper East Side home and office for months but had been stymied by the political leadership put in place at the Justice Department by President Trump.

To obtain the search warrant, investigators would have needed to convince a judge they had sufficient reason to believe that a crime was committed and the search would turn up evidence of that. It does not indicate guilt.

The warrant was originally sought last summer but top officials at DOJ raised concerns about issuing a warrant so close to an election.

DOJ rules prevent actions close to an election that might be seen as interference  a matter that came up both in 2016 during the probe of Hillary Clinton's emails and in 2020 during the investigation, not publicly revealed, into Hunter Biden over potential tax issues.

But after Merrick Garland was confirmed as President Biden's attorney general, the Justice Department lifted its objection to the search.

The raids indicate the investigation of the former New York City mayor has entered an aggressive new phase. It is unusual for prosecutors to execute a search warrant on a lawyer, particularly one who has privileged conversations with his client, the former president of the United States.

The Giuliani investigation grew out of a federal investigation of his associates, Lev Parnas and Igor Fruman, who worked on gathering information about the Bidens during the election.

The two Soviet-born men were charged with federal campaign finance violations.

The two, who pleaded not guilty, were arrested at an airport outside Washington carrying one-way tickets to Europe. That investigation is on-going and faced some delays due to the COVID pandemic.

Trump has said he doesn't know the two men or the work they did.

Investigators are also looking into Giuliani's role in the ousting of US Ambassador to the Ukraine Marie Yovanovitch, who was a prominent witness in Trump's first impeachment trial. Current and former U.S. officials testified at that inquiry that Giuliani carried out a shadow foreign policy in Ukraine.

As Giuliani was pushing Ukrainian officials to announce an investigation of the Bidens, he pushed to have Yovanovitch removed, seeing her as an obstacle to his efforts to produce a probe that would benefit Trump politically.

At Giuliani's urging, Trump had her recalled.

Press and members of the public crowd the street in front of Giuliani's condo building

The Giuliani investigation grew out of a federal investigation of his associates, Lev Parnas and Igor Fruman, who worked on gathering information about the Bidens during the election and were charged with violating the ban on political donations by foreign nationals in October 2019

Lev Parnas, center, and Igor Fruman with Rudy Giuliani at far right, Trump second right, and VP Mike Pence left

Investigators are also looking into Giuliani's role in the ousting of US Ambassador to the Ukraine Marie Yovanovitch, who was a prominent witness in Trump's first impeachment trial

Prosecutors are examining whether Giuliani was working not only for Trump, but also for Ukrainian officials or businesses who wanted Yovanovitch dismissed for their own reasons, The New York Times reported.

Giuliani later bragged about having her removed, saying he 'forced' her out as she was making his push for the Ukrainians to investigate the Bidens 'difficult.'

Trump was impeached on two counts in his first trial after reports of a July 25, 2019, phone call in which Trump pressured Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to investigate Joe and Hunter Biden and also a discredited conspiracy theory that Ukraine interfered in the 2016 US election.

Trump was acquitted by the Senate.
An Asian woman has shared video of an angry boutique employee who tried to 'whip' her with a romper and spoke to her in a 'racist' way when she asked him about their return policy.

Bea Cruz said she was at the Maiko clothing store in Forest Hills, Queens, on Friday morning when the incident occurred.

In the video, obtained by CBS2, the man is seen using what appears to be a clothing item and attempting to knock Cruz's phone from her hand after she started recording the incident.

While the audio isn't clear, Cruz said she was asking questions about the returns policy when things got heated.

'He turn around and blew up at me. "You talk too much. This is not China; this is America,"' Cruz said of the incident. 'I got triggered because that's racist.'

Bea Cruz (pictured) has shared video of an angry boutique employee who started speaking to her in a 'racist' way when she asked him about their pricing and return policy

In the video, the man is seen using what appears to be a clothing item (right) and attempting to knock Cruz's phone from her hand after she started recording the incident

The 25-year-old nurse said she then tried to talk the man down but instead things got worse.

'He's like, "Gimme, gimme, you can't buy this." Still, at this moment, I was saying, I will buy this. Just don't say this to me,' Cruz said, adding that he tried to grab the items she was holding from her hands.

Cruz said at one point the man held up a metal hanger as if to strike her with it but instead he 'whipped me with the romper he had in his hand'.

Toward the end of the video, the man is seen shooing her out of the store and closing the door behind her.

While some of the man's actions were caught on video, he claimed that he didn't say anything racist and that it was Cruz who was the disruptive one.

Cruz told CBS that she had previously shopped at the store and never had any issues with the employee.

Cruz said she was at the Maiko clothing store (pictured) in Forest Hills, Queens, on Friday morning when the incident occurred

She also said that since the incident, she's been getting support from elected officials and plans to make a complaint about it to police.

The incident occurred at a time when the US has seen a spike in hate crimes against the Asian American community.

In March, eight people, including six Asian women, were shot dead in Atlanta.

Following the shooting, violence against Asian Americans was reported in New York and California.

Shockingly, New York saw the greatest increase of 223 per cent with the number of incidents reported to police rising from 13 to 42.

In California, San Francisco saw a 140 per cent increase from 5 to 12.

The uptick is such violence prompted Asian American business leaders to launch the Asian American Foundation.

The foundation launched on Monday and said it has raised $125million from its board members to support Asian American and Pacific Islander organizations over the next five years.

The Asian American Foundation says its giving will focus on supporting organizations and leaders who are measuring and challenging violence against Asian American and Pacific Islanders and developing a common data standard that tracks violence and hate incidents.

The foundation will also help create K-12 and college curriculums that 'reflect the history of Asian American and Pacific Islanders as part of the American story'.
The number of unaccompanied minor migrants in Customs and Border Protection custody has dramatically dropped by 88 per cent from the end of March.

New numbers, touted by DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas on Monday, show only 677 remain in CBP facilities. On March 28 there were 5,767 unaccompanied minors in CBP custody.

CBP has been able to almost double the rate it processes children and more quickly transfer them to shelters and emergency housing facilities set up by Heath and Human Services.

The agency released photos of facilities showing see-through pens nearly empty, with just a few unaccompanied minor migrants remaining. It juxtaposed the April 30 photographs with images taken March 17 showing massive overcrowding.

Despite the expediting processing, the number of illegal crossings have not slowed.

The Department of Homeland Security released photos Monday showing near-empty border facilities to tout there has been an 88% drop in the number of unaccompanied minor migrants in CBP custody  with the majority now transferred to Health and Human Services facilities

DHS released images from it's Donna, Texas facility taken on April 30 showing the sharp change from images the month prior

The same facility shown above on March 30 was overflowing with unaccompanied minors migrants who were apprehended crossing the border without parents or adult family members

A graph from DHS shows UAC in Customs and Border Protection custody was on the rise until the end of March, when it took a sharp downward trend as kids are transferred to other facilities

'In March, we faced a critical challenge at our border. The men and women of DHS have been working tirelessly over the past several weeks to respond and rebuild,' Mayorkas said in a statement on the improving numbers. 'Their efforts have produced dramatic results  results that ensure the safety and security of both the migrants we encounter and the American people.'

Immigration holding facilities were massively overcrowded with the surge in unaccompanied minor apprehensions at the southern border in the first few months of Biden's administration.

At some points facilities were pushed near 16 times their max capacities. In late March, the largest CBP facility for migrant children was at 1,640 per cent capacity with 3,200 minors housed in an area designed for only 250 people.

In March, these children were spending an average of 130 hours in custody of Customs and Border Patrol (CBP). Usually, CBP has a three-day legal timeframe to transfer unaccompanied alien children, or UACs, to HHS.

Mayorkas says they are now only being held for an average of 20 hours before transfer.

'The progress we have made is dramatic,' Mayorkas told reporters during a call Sunday.

HHS, according to figures from last week, is housing more than 22,500 unaccompanied children in shelters and emergency housing facilities.

Empty benches line the floors of the temporary processing facility in Donna, Texas on April 30

In March, 19,000 unaccompanied minor migrants were taken into federal custody  an all-time monthly high

CBP does not have full-time child welfare professionals to take on cases of children arriving alone at the border  HHS does have individuals trained to care for migrant minors and case managers focused on reunification.

The U.S. saw an all-time monthly high of UAC crossings with nearly 19,000 entered into custody in March, which overwhelmed the system set up to process minors arriving alone.

Biden's administration has started setting up temporary facilities to help alleviate the border facilities and speed up processing unaccompanied minors.

Over the weekend, a group of migrant children started arriving at the Pomona Fairplex fairgrounds in southern California, which the Biden administration has set up as temporary housing for unaccompanied minors who arrived at the U.S.-Mexico border.

Officials say these children, ranging in age from 7 to 14, will remain at the site until they can be reunited with family or placed with sponsors.

The facility has a capacity to hold 2,500 children.

The new measure comes after the Long Beach Convention Center in Los Angeles also opened its doors to house unaccompanied minors.

'These children as you know have endured abuse, persecution, deep poverty, and violence and they are simply seeking refuge,' LA County Board of Supervisors Chair Hilda L. Solis said Thursday, according to KTLA.

The Pomona and Long Beach centers are meant as a temporary means to house the hundreds of minor migrants apprehended every day at the southern border without an adult accompanying them.

DHS announced Monday it will start reuniting this week migrant families that were separated under former President Donald Trump 's zero-tolerance policies against illegal immigration .

Several migrants arrived at the Pomona Fairplex fairgrounds in Los Angeles over the weekend after it opened its doors as a temporary housing for unaccompanied minors apprehended at the border

The Fairplex can house up to 2,500 minors

Mayorkas said in a call Sunday night that four families of the estimated 1,000 that remain separated will be reunited this week.

Two of the four include mothers  one Mexican and one Honduran  who were separated from their children in 2017, Mayorkas detailed without providing their identities.

He described the range of children from 3-years-old at the time of separation to 'teenagers who have had to live without their parent during their most formative years.'

'The Family Reunification Task Force has been working day and night, across the federal government and with counsel for the families and our foreign partners, to address the prior administration's cruel separation of children from their parents,' Mayorkas said in a statement announcing the family reunification.

'Today is just the beginning,' he added. 'We are reuniting the first group of families, many more will follow, and we recognize the importance of providing these families with the stability and resources they need to heal.

Joe Biden's administration will begin reuniting families this week who were separated when crossing the border under Donald Trump's 'zero tolerance' immigration policies. Here an immigrant mother carries her children into the U.S. after crossing illegally from Mexico

Four of the 1,000 families who remain separated will be reunited this week as Biden's Family Reunification Task Force charges forward with starting the process. Pictured: Migrant families overcrowded in a U.S. border facility in McAllen, Texas in June 2019

It is not immediately clear how DHS selected these four families to be reunited first and the agency has not yet responded to a request for more information from DailyMail.com.

The president promised during his campaign that he would reunite families separated after crossing the border and created a task force shortly after taking office dedicated to reunification.

Mayorkas, who heads the task force on reuniting separated families, told reporters Sunday: 'Our team is dedicated to finding every family and giving them an opportunity to reunite and heal.'

'We continue to work tirelessly to reunite many more children with their parents in the weeks and months ahead,' he said during the call. 'We have a lot of work still to do, but I am proud of the progress we have made and the reunifications that we have helped to achieve this week.'

The administration's Family Reunification Task Force Executive Director Michelle Brane said the parents will return to the U.S. on humanitarian parole as authorities consider longer-term legal status.

Under Trump's policies, families arriving at the border were separated into different facilities, upon which time most parents and adults were deported, while children were kept in federal custody.

Now, Biden will begin the process of allowing parents who were previously deported to return to the U.S. to be with their children.

Record numbers of illegal immigrants continue to cross into the U.S. as Biden promises no unaccompanied children will be turned away and said during his campaign he would accept all asylum-seekers. Here a smuggler paddles immigrants across the Rio Grande River on April 30

Starting in the summer of 2017, Trump implemented 'zero-tolerance' policies to easier criminally prosecute illegal immigrants, which led to more than 5,000 children being separated from their parents. The practices officially ended by court order in June 2018.

Brane believes there are still 1,000 families who are separated.

Despite the reunification process kicking off this week, the Biden administration is still facing its biggest issues at the southern border.

In recent months, Biden has seen record-numbers of illegal immigrants crossing as he vowed during his campaign all asylum-seekers would have a place in the U.S.

There are also tens of thousands of unaccompanied minor children in federal custody after public messaging from the White House promised not to turn away any children arriving at the border without an adult.

Migrants from Northern Triangle countries continue to take dangerous measures to get into the U.S.

Four people were killed and more than two dozen others were hospitalized Sunday after a boat capsized and broke apart in rough water just off the San Diego coast during a suspected human smuggling operation, authorities said.

Smugglers continue dangerous tactics to get immigrants to the U.S. Four people were killed and nearly two dozen others were hospitalized after a boat capsized Sunday just off the San Diego coast

The image above shows debris washing ashore just off the coast of San Diego on Sunday

Video footage shot by horrified beachgoers shows the boat tipping over in the water before breaking apart as it was battered by the waves and rocks.

Lifeguards, the U.S. Coast Guard and other agencies responded around 10 a.m. following reports of an overturned vessel in the waves near the rugged peninsula of Point Loma, according to the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department.

The original call was for a handful of people overboard but as rescuers arrived in boats and jet skis they quickly realized 'it was going to be a bigger situation with more people,' said San Diego Lifeguard Services Lt. Rick Romero.

'There are people in the water, drowning, getting sucked out the rip current there,' he said. 'Once we arrived on scene, the boat had basically been broken apart. Conditions were pretty rough: 5 to 6 feet of surf, windy, cold.'
A Russian-Canadian programmer has officially been crowned the world's youngest crypto billionaire.

Vitalik Buterin, 27, reached billionaire status after digital currency Ethereum surged above a $3,000 price mark Monday.

The celebrity crypto guru co-founded Ethereum - the second biggest cryptocurrency after Bitcoin - in 2015.

Ethereum has attracted a huge following in the world of decentralized finance, thanks to its faster transaction times when compared to that of Bitcoin.

He holds 333,000 Ether coins - which is now worth an astonishing $1.029 billion.

In 2013, the writer and programmer dropped out of college and later became one of eight co-founders of Ethereum.

Vitalik Buterin, 27, reached billionaire status after digital currency Ethereum surged above a $3000 price mark today

At the time of writing, his visionary project boasts a huge market cap of about $350 billion, which is bigger than The Bank of America, the country's second largest bank.

Buterin, who now lives in Singapore, was born in 1994 in a small Russian town called Kolomna, located around 60 miles away from Moscow.

Aged 4, his family moved to Canada to search for better job opportunities.

They later gifted him his first computer. But instead of playing video games like most kids, he developed a fascination with the spreadsheets on Microsoft Excel.

At school the mathematical whizz kid was a bit too clever for his peers. In third grade he was placed in a program for the gifted and talented.

According to former peers, he had the ability to add three digit numbers in his head twice as fast as the average human being.

With his parents' blessing, Vitalik dropped out of the University of Waterloo in 2013 and travelled the world to meet crypto enthusiasts in other countries.

His father, who ran a small software startup, introduced him to bitcoin in 2011.

In an interview with Wired, Buterin said: 'I saw everything to do with either government regulation or corporate control as just being plain evil.

'And I assumed that people in those institutions were kind of like Mr. Burns (in The Simpsons), sitting behind their desks saying, 'Excellent. How can I screw a thousand people over this time?'

Vitalik Buterin speaks during the TechCrunch Disrupt 2017 in San Francisco, California

WHAT IS ETHEREUM? Ethereum is a technology first developed by Vitalik Buterin, a former Bitcoin programmer in 2013. After Bitcoin, ether (the currency of Ethereum) is the second most valuable form of digital money. Ethereum uses a decentralized payment network that allows payments to be sent anonymously across the internet without the need for a bank. Transactions made through Ethereum are stored in a blockchain, where they are visible for everyone else in the network to see. Ethereum has more than quadrupled in value from around $700 at the beginning of 2021. Some analysts have said it could eventually overtake Bitcoin as the dominant coin in the market. One ether is now worth roughly $3,300. Advertisement

Buterin, who was 19-years-old at the time, came up with the design of Ethereum in a white paper later that year.

The aim was to create a general scripting language to develop blockchain-based applications.

The first Ethereum network was crowdfunded in 2014 and first went live in 2016 with a supply of 72 million Ether coins.

In 2017, false rumors spread online claiming that Vitalik had died in a car accident.

The outbreak of the news, which originated on 4Cchan, led to a drop in the value of the Ethereum market cap to about $4billion.

The recent Ethereum price surge appears to push back against criticism levelled at cryptocurrencies' by Charlie Munger, vice chairman of Warren Buffet's Berkshire Hathaway, last weekend.

He said: 'I dont welcome a currency that is so useful to kidnappers and extortionists and so forth.

'Nor do I like shoveling out a few extra billions and billions and billions of dollars to somebody who just invented a new financial product out of thin air. I think I should say modestly that I think the whole damn development is disgusting and contrary to the interests of civilization.'

Like Bitcoin, Ethereum runs its own blockchain, an online ledger which tracks the transfer of information or value.

Buterin envisioned a payment network that allows anonymous payments to be sent across the internet without the need for a bank.

Corporate interest in the cryptocurrency sector has boosted retail investors confidence in the unregulated sector, including plans by The European Investment Bank to issue a digital bond on the Ethereum blockchain.

Visual representations of digital cryptocurrency Ethereum (ETH) arranged on a circuit board of a hard drive on January 3, 2021 in Katwijk, Netherlands

Bitcoins price increased dramatically after Elon Musk recently revealed that an investment he made on behalf of Tesla had helped keep the electric carmaker out of the red.

At publishing time, the worlds largest altcoin is trading at $3,144, up 8.6% over the past 24 hours, with gains of 36% over the past seven days, according to data from CoinGecko.

Bitcoin , the world's biggest crypto asset with more than $1 trillion in market capitalization, regained the $50,000 mark last week and hovered around $58,700 on Monday, up about 4% but well below its record high of $64,895.22.

Meanwhile, the price of meme coin Dogecoin was continuing its upward trajectory as of today, pushing its overall valuation higher than that of Twitter or Ford.
A jobless New Yorker tried to rip a flight attendant's dress off after flying into a rage about her garbage not being picked up, police say.

Chenasia Campbell, 28, reportedly lashed out on an American Airlines Miami to JFK flight on Saturday evening after upbraiding a crew member for failing to pick up her garbage.

She was arraigned for an assault charge at Brooklyn Federal Court on Monday, and disguised herself with a surgical mask and sweater.

A criminal complaint states that Campbell was traveling from Miami to New York on Sunday evening when the incident occurred.

It said that midway through the three-hour flight she got up from her seat, followed a flight attendant to a crew area on the aircraft and began arguing.

Chenasia Campbell, pictured in court in Brooklyn on Monday, is said to have attacked a flight attendant during a row over her garbage not being picked up

Campbell allegedly followed an American Airlines flight attendant to a crew station and began arguing with her colleague, with the scuffle allegedly turning physical shortly afterwards

Campbell, who faces 20 years in jail on a charge of interference with a flight crew, previously held a government job working with people with disabilities

The defendant, pictured outside Brooklyn's federal court on Monday, was unemployed at the time of the alleged plane attack

Campbell covered her face to try and shield her identity from photographers, and was freed on $15,000 bail

A second flight attendant stepped in and tried to separate the two women, at which point Campbell, who previously worked for the New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities, accused that second AA crew member of pushing her.

'[Campbell] then struck the victim with closed fists and pulled the victim's hair,' the document states.

'At some point during the altercation, the defendant attempted to pull up or remove the victim's dress,' the complaint alleges.

The passenger and the flight attendant she is accused of attacking were then separated, and Campbell made her way toward the bathroom, where she began arguing with another passenger, it is alleged.

Campbell then approached her alleged victim in the crew area again and began swearing at her and bragging that 'cops aren't going to do anything to me,' according to a criminal complaint.

Next, Campbell punched the American Airlines employee, causing both of them to fall to the floor, police say.

The injured flight attendant asked the captain to land the plane, but her request was denied.

The brawl only came to an end when she was restrained and cuffed by an off-duty NYPD officer who was also on board the jet.

Campbell was handed over to the authorities after the flight landed at John F Kennedy International Airport in Queens on Sunday.

According to a criminal complaint obtained by DailyMail.com, Campbell was charged with interference with flight crew members and attendants, an offense is punishable by up to 20 years in prison.

Campbell, 28, was arrested after landing at John F Kennedy International Airport, pictured, in New York City on Sunday night

Chenasia Campbell, 28, has been charged with interference with flight crew members and attendants for allegedly punching a flight attendant on an American Airlines flight

An off-duty officer with the NYPD who was on board the flight intervened and placed Campbell in hand restraints for the remainder of the flight.

When the plane landed at JFK, Campbell was taken into custody.

The flight attendant suffered scrapes to her arm and cheek, bruises to the forehead and leg, swollen hands and a strained neck, but refused medical assistance.

Campbell appeared in federal court in Brooklyn on Monday and was ordered released on $15,000 bond.

A public defender representing Campbell told the court that his client is currently in a mental health treatment program, reported NBC New York.
President Joe Biden has confirmed he will raise the cap on refugees allowed into the U.S. from 15,000 to 62,500 this year after facing stark criticism from his own party.

The administration had previously announced an effort to raise the cap up from 15,000 after getting blasted by critics including Democratic 'squad' members Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York and Ilhan Omar of Minnesota.

The series of U-turns came to a head in April, when the administration had indicated it would move to raise the cap  days after initially justifying a 15,000 figure for the current fiscal year from the holdover Trump administration.

Even at the higher number, the number of refugees cleared for admission in Biden's first fiscal year is just a fraction of where the cap stood when the Refugee Admissions Program began during the Carter administration.

Former President Donald Trump slashed the cap, bringing it down to 18,000 in 2019. The number had approached 150,000 during the 1990s, with boosts amid the disruptions of the Balkan wars. There were steep cuts during the Reagan administration.

Under President Barack Obama, the cap was mostly flat, with an 85,000 cap for his final year, and a 110,000 cap for his final partial fiscal year in 2017. Trump then slashed that number by more than half, to 50,000, after he took office.

President Joe Biden says he will raise the cap on refugees for the current fiscal year up to 62,500 from the current 15,000

The earlier decision stopped short of raising the cap, even as Biden took actions to expand eligibility for refugees to be resettled. Aides initially said an increase wasn't necessary. Biden had campaigned on the higher figure.

'Today, I am revising the United States annual refugee admissions cap to 62,500 for this fiscal year,' Biden said in a statement released by the White House Monday.

'This erases the historically low number set by the previous administration of 15,000, which did not reflect Americas values as a nation that welcomes and supports refugees. The new admissions cap will also reinforce efforts that are already underway to expand the United States capacity to admit refugees, so that we can reach the goal of 125,000 refugee admissions that I intend to set for the coming fiscal year.'

'It is important to take this action today to remove any lingering doubt in the minds of refugees around the world who have suffered so much, and who are anxiously waiting for their new lives to begin,' Biden said.

A group of migrants are seen as they were taken to shelters by US officials after the registration process and COVID-19 tests in McAllen, Texas, United States on April 08, 2021

Haitian migrant children play at an evangelical church as they wait for the migrations office to give them a safeguard to continue their way in a caravan heading to the US, in Trojes municipality, El Paraiso department, Honduras, on the border with Nicaragua, on April 21, 2021

The political pushback followed a series of mixed signals.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken notified Congress back in February of the administration's intention to go to 62,500.

But Biden said April 16 the Trump administration's 15,000 number 'remains justified by humanitarian concerns and is otherwise in the national interest.' That drew an uproar from liberal and left-leaning Democrats.

That drew furious comment from Omar, a Somali-American whose family fled a refugee camp from Kenya when she was a young girl.

'As a refugee, I know finding a home is a matter of life or death for children around the world. It is shameful that @POTUS is reneging on a key promise to welcome refugees,' she tweeted.

Biden announced he was raising the cap in a White House statement

Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.) blasted the administration last month when Biden appeared to stand by a 15,000 cap she called 'disgraceful'

Democratic Reps. Ilhan Omar (left) and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (right) blasted Biden's decision last month when he issued a statement keeping the lower cap in place after Biden said it was in the national interest

'There are simply no excuses for todays disgraceful decision. It goes directly against our values and risks the lives of little boys and girls huddled in refugee camps around the world. I know, because I was one,' she added.

Rep. Ocasio-Cortez last month blasted Biden for upholding 'the xenophobic and racist policies of the Trump' era. She called the 15,000 number 'completely and utterly unacceptable.'

It all came amid a crisis at the border and administration efforts to surge federal employees to help process unaccompanied immigrants into Health and Human Services Department custody.

Biden said in his statement that the refugee program 'embodies Americas commitment to protect the most vulnerable, and to stand as a beacon of liberty and refuge to the world. Its a statement about who we are, and who we want to be. So we are going to rebuild what has been broken and push hard to complete the rigorous screening process for those refugees already in the pipeline for admission.'

But, he said, 'The sad truth is that we will not achieve 62,500 admissions this year. We are working quickly to undo the damage of the last four years. It will take some time, but that work is already underway. We have reopened the program to new refugees. And by changing the regional a

His budget plan sets the 125,000 goal, but does not have the force of law.

He called the number 'hard to hit,' and wrote: 'We might not make it the first year. But we are going to use every tool available to help these fully-vetted refugees fleeing horrific conditions in their home countries.'

In a memorandum for the secretary of state released by the White House late Monday, Biden explains that after a presidential determination last month, he got 'additional briefing' and a 'more comprehensive presentation.'

'When I signed PD 2021-05, my intent was to adjust only the allocation of admissions and to address the appropriate number of refugees in a separate determination. Upon additional briefing and a more comprehensive presentation regarding the capacity of the executive departments and agencies charged with administering [the refugee program] to increase refugee admissions while responding to other demands, and given the ongoing unforeseen emergency refugee situation, I now determine, consistent with my Administration's prior consultation with the Congress, that raising the number of admissions permissible for FY 2021 to 62,500 is justified by grave humanitarian concerns and is otherwise in the national interest,' he said, referencing the fiscal year.

Biden noted that in the earlier order, 'I did not change the pre-existing number of refugee admissions permitted for FY 2021, which remained at 15,000.' But he added: 'I also stated that I would consider raising the worldwide refugee admissions ceiling before the end of FY 2021, should the pre-existing level be reached and the emergency refugee situation persist.'

Blinken, who sometimes speaks of his own family history and how his stepfather fled Eastern Europe during the Holocaust, tweeted: 'Today, @potus took the next step to address the needs of those fleeing violence and persecution. Our refugee program provides safe, legal, orderly, and humane ways to enter the United States to those seeking refuge in line with our core American values and interests as a nation.'
Calls for a quicker end to lockdown grew yesterday as the daily Covid death toll fell to just one.

The figure was the lowest since last August with infections also plummeting to an eight-month low.

Despite the falling numbers  and the huge success of the vaccine rollout  Britain is still not scheduled to open up fully for another seven weeks. Ministers are even hinting that masks and forms of social distancing may continue past June 21.

And the list of quarantine-free destinations is likely to be very limited when the blanket ban on foreign travel ends later this month.

Robert Syms, Tory MP for Poole, urged Boris Johnson to stick to his promise of following data not dates.

Boris Johnson has been urged to follow data not dates in the reopening of the country after Britain saw just one Covid death recorded yesterday

Despite the falling numbers  and the huge success of the vaccine rollout  Britain is still not scheduled to open up fully for another seven weeks

If you take the data rather than dates, infections, hospitalisations and deaths have fallen quite rapidly and there doesnt seem to be any evidence that any of the unlocking has caused any sort of spike, he said.

It didnt happen when schools reopened and hasnt as a result of shops reopening. We need to push the Government to get on with it. A lot of normal life could be returned.

As Britain passed the milestone of 50million vaccinations, Sir Robert called for measures such as allowing more guests at weddings otherwise were going to lose another summer.

A further 1,649 confirmed cases of coronavirus were reported yesterday  down 20 per cent in seven days. The solitary death takes the seven-day total to 105  down 35 per cent on the week before.

The figures came as:

Mr Johnson confirmed an opening-up of international travel from May 17;

However the Prime Minister warned the green list of quarantine-free countries was likely to be in single figures;

The European Union revealed plans for dropping its entry ban for non-member countries such as Britain with strong vaccine campaigns and low infection rates;

Health Secretary Matt Hancock promised a great summer after vaccinations hit 50million, behind only the US and India;

Party leaders backed the Daily Mails campaign to help create a national memorial for Covid victims.

Mr Johnson struck a positive note yesterday, saying that the lockdown easing roadmap was on course, with almost all social distancing rules likely to be scrapped from June 21. He said: We have got a good chance of being able to dispense with the one-metre plus from June 21.

That is still dependent on the data, we cant say it categorically yet, we have got to look at the epidemiology as we progress. But thats what it feels like to me right now. Tory former minister David Jones said the Government should now consider bringing forward the June 21 target.

He added: Lots of hospitality businesses desperately need to recommence full trading and lots of livelihoods depend on it.

Mark Hix, owner of Oyster & Fish House restaurant in Lyme Regis, said: We need a quicker re-opening.

Weve had a lot of reservations cancelled because of the terrible freezing weather.

Kate Nicholls of trade body UKHospitality said: A return to unrestricted trading on June 21 is critical and will mean hospitality businesses can come off life support and be viable for the first time in almost 16 months.

We urge the Government to confirm reopening dates and these plans at the earliest opportunity, which will boost confidence and allow companies to step up planning and bring staff back.

A spokesman for the UK Cinema Association indicated it hoped face coverings would not be a continued requirement.

He said: We strongly believe that our exemplary record on safety  with not a single case of Covid traced back to a UK venue  and our ability to manage the movement of cinema-goers in modern, highly ventilated indoor environments offer ample evidence that any relaxation from June 21 can be undertaken safely without the need for further ongoing restrictions, including any requirement for face coverings.

A review of social distancing is expected to announce its findings before June 21. But the Mail understands that masks may still be required in some settings along with one-way systems and screens in some venues.

A separate review into close contact between friends and families  allowing relatives to hug one another again  will report within a fortnight.

Germany is to lift restrictions on citizens who have been vaccinated as early as this week. In Denmark, those who can show on a coronapas that they have been inoculated can visit restaurants, bars, cafes, museums, art galleries, libraries, zoos and theme parks. French authorities are working on a so-called passe sanitaire.
Notorious 'club kid' killer Michael Alig, who served 17 years in prison for killing his roommate over a drug debt in a case that became a book and film, died at Christmas last year from a drug overdose, a medical examiner has confirmed.

Aligs death at the age of 54 came on Christmas Eve 2020, some six years after his release from prison in 2014.

The Office of Chief Medical Examiner in New York City found his cause of death to be acute intoxication by fentanyl, acetylfentanyl, heroin and methamphetamine.

Michael Alig, 54 (pictured in June 2020, left), was found to have died from acute intoxication by fentanyl, acetylfentanyl, heroin and methamphetamine on Christmas Eve last year. Alig was one of the leaders of the 'Club Kids' counterculture of the 1980s and 90s (pictured in 1993, right)

Alig, pictured during his birthday party in April 2019, was found unresponsive by his boyfriend inside his Manhattan apartment, where police recovered suspected heroin and paraphernalia

Michael Alig attends DailyMail.com's Holiday Party in 2015

Alig, who had led a troubled life marked by periods of homelessness, was found unresponsive inside his Washington Heights apartment on West 159th St by his boyfriend.

Alig reportedly moved into the Manhattan apartment about in the summer of 2020.

His next-door neighbor told New York Post he often heard screaming coming from the former club promoter's unit and saw men outside his door waiting for him.

The neighbor described Alig as stumbling, always in a rush and looking 'anxious' in the last months of his life.

Alig was photographed in late June during a Pride Month party looking haggard and unshaven.

Alig served 17 years in prison for murdering and dismembering his roommate and drug dealer Andre 'Angel' Melendez (pictured)

Alig, the one-time self-proclaimed 'King of the Club Kids,' was part of the decadent 1990s party scene characterized by over-the-top flamboyant costumes and outrageous underground parties where drug use was rampant.

The hedonistic bacchanal abruptly ground to a halt in 1996, when Alig and fellow 'Club Kid' Robert 'Freeze' Riggs were arrested for a brutal murder.

He pleaded guilty to manslaughter in 1997.

Alig admitted that he and Robert 'Freeze' Riggs killed Melendez by striking him with a hammer, throttling him and pouring Drano down his throat.

The pair placed the body in a bathtub, covered it with ice and baking soda, and continued partying inside the apartment for the next week as the victim's corpse decomposed.

Alig is pictured at an event in 1995. He once proclaimed himself 'the King of the Club Kids'

When the smell became too overwhelming, Alig and Rigg cut up the body and dumped the remains in the Hudson River.

Riggs also pleaded guilty to manslaughter. He was released in 2010.

The grisly story was turned into the 2003 movie Party Monster, in which Macaulay Culkin played Alig.

Alig maintained a social media presence while behind bars, although he had no access to a computer and dictated tweets to a friend over the prison phone.

Following his release from prison, Alig expressed remorse for his actions and decadent lifestyle.

The story of Melendez's murder inspired the 2003 film Party Monster, starring Macaulay Culkin as Alig (pictured)

Michael Alig attends the 'Glory Daze: The Life and Times of Michael Alig' New York Premiere at The Players Theatre in June 2015 in New York City

'Eighteen years on, looking back at the person I was at that time, I feel nothing but shame and disgust,' Alig wrote in a piece published by the New York Post in 2014. 'I was a selfish junkie who killed another human being.'

In an interview with Rolling Stone in 2017, Alig talked candidly about his battle with addiction behind bars.

'I went to prison addicted to heroin and it's a very difficult drug to get off  especially in prison,' he said.

'I would wean myself off, go through the withdrawal, and expect to be feeling better a week or a month later. And when that didn't happen, I decided, 'F*** it. I've committed this horrible crime, nobody's ever going to forgive me, I might as well just get high and not have to deal with it.''

Originally from Indiana, Alig moved to New York in the early 1980s to attend Fordham University but later dropped out and became involved in the New York underground club scene as a promoter .

Even before his conviction, Alig and his fellow Club Kids had grabbed national attention for their outrageous Manhattan dance parties that showcased sex, rampant drug use and over-the-top costumes.
An alleged Mexican drug lord depicted in Netflix drama Narcos can be extradited to the US over the 1985 murder of a US Drugs Enforcement Agency Agent.

A Mexican court rejected court filing from fugitive drug lord Rafael Caro Quintero which Monday sought to prevent his extradition to the US for the kidnapping and killing of Enrique 'Kiki' Camarena.

A panel of judges from the First Collegiate Court in Criminal Matters ruled against Caro Quintero's appeal. His lawyer argued that an extradition to the U.S. would equate to Caro Quintero being prosecuted twice for the killings of Camarena and Mexican pilot Alfredo Zavala.

'It is inevitable to conclude that there are no elements to analyze in detail and less, to be in a position to decide if the facts that motivate the provisional detention requested by the United States have already been tried in this country,' the judges wrote in their opinion.

Rafael Caro Quintero (left) is on the FBI's top ten most wanted list for his role in ordering the kidnapping, torture and murder of DEA Special Agent Enrique 'Kiki' Camarena (right) in February 1985. A Mexican court on Friday ruled that Caro Quintero can be extradited to the United States

U.S. military personnel carry the coffin containing the body of DEA Special Agent Enrique 'Kiki' Camarena following her 1985 murder

A Jalisco court ordered the release of Caro Quintero on August 9, 2013 after he had served 28 of the 40 years he had been sentenced to, ruling that he was improperly tried for the killing of the DEA special agent.

But on August 14, a federal court acted on pressure from the United States and issued a warrant for the arrest.

The FBI listed Caro Quintero on its top 10 most wanted list on April 12, 2008. The U.S. government has offered a $20 million reward for information leading to his capture.

He has been on the run ever since and has formed his own drug cartel, which has been embroiled in a battle with the Sinaloa Cartel.

Caro-Quintero, who is known as the 'Narco of Narcos,' was one of the co-founders of the Guadalajara Cartel.

The defunct criminal organization became a focus of the DEA in the 1980s.

Caro Quintero, pictured in an undated photo, is currently on the run, but there is a $20 million reward for his capture and conviction in the United States

The gang sought revenge on Camarena after the Mexican military raided a 2,500-acre marijuana farm in 1984.

Caro-Quintero and the two other cartel leaders, Miguel Angel Felix Gallardo and Ernesto Fonseca, kidnapped the then 37-year-old Camarena in broad daylight on February 7, 1985 as he left the U.S. Consulate in Guadalajara.

Zavala, who worked for the Mexican government and DEA, was kidnapped the same day in a separate incident.

Camarena was tortured at a residence that belonged to Caro-Quintero.

Camarena and Zavala's bodies were found on March 5, 1985, wrapped in plastic and dumped at an abandoned property in La Angostura, a city in the state of Michoacan.

Zavalas was missing eight teeth, six on the upper jaw and two on the lower.

The lives of the cartel and their victims are featured in Netflix's 'Narcos: Mexico' series.

In April, a federal district court judge in New York City entered a judgment that called for the seizure and forfeiture of five properties in Mexico that were purchased by drug kingpin.

United States District Judge Eric N. Vitaliano ordered the seizure of the properties, including three homes, a ranch and a warehouse, which are located in the western Mexican city of Guadalajara.

The properties were obtained with the drug trafficking money earned by Caro-Quintero's gang, a faction of the Sinaloa Cartel, according to a joint statement issued by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Eastern District of New York.

A forfeiture complaint presented October 11, 2019 indicated that between January 1980 and March 2015, Caro Quintero's organization shipped multiple tons of marijuana and multiple kilos of methamphetamine and cocaine from Mexico to the United States.
A serial killer may have murdered the police support officer found dead last week, a leading barrister claimed yesterday.

Julia James, 53, was discovered battered to death beside a woodland path in Kent after taking her terrier for a walk.

The scene was just two miles from that of the notorious Chillenden hammer murders a quarter of a century ago.

The barrister campaigning to clear Michael Stone of that crime has told police the real killer may still be at large and could have struck again.

Julia James, a serving PCSO for Kent Police for 15 years, was discovered battered to death beside a woodland path in Kent after taking her terrier for a walk

Stone, 61, has been unsuccessful in appeals against his conviction for the murders of Lin Russell, 45, and her daughter Megan, six, in 1996.

Mark McDonald QC said: There are some concerning questions here. Reports have talked about police in the area looking for a reported attempted dognapper in his 60s in a BMW.

He would have been in his 30s at the time of the Chillenden murders. There were a number of alternative suspects  one of which had really poor alibi evidence. But the police dropped everything when they focused on Stone. And they got the wrong man.

Ive reached out to Kent Police through their hotline, and said Ive got all the material on alternative suspects from Chillenden.

The scene was just two miles from that of the notorious Chillenden hammer murders of Lin Russell and her daughter Megan (pictured) a quarter of a century ago. The barrister campaigning to clear Michael Stone of that crime has told police the real killer may still be at large and could have struck again

The case has chilling echoes of one of Britain's most notorious murder cases, which took place in the neighbouring village of Chillenden, Kent, 25 years ago, when Dr Lin Russell, 45, and her daughter Megan, six, were bludgeoned to death with a hammer as they walked their family dog

'There were five alternative suspects. Its remarkably similar. I havent heard back from them yet, but Ive got everything  names, addresses, dates of birth.

Mr McDonald said stranger murders were rare, adding: Being bashed to death over the head with a blunt-force object is unusual  and thats the same as with Lin Russell and her daughter.

They were all bashed around the head with a blunt-force instrument, two miles away from where female PCSO Julia James was killed. And if Im right, and Michael Stone is innocent, the real murderer is out there, and hes struck again.

'I dont want to get too involved in the investigation but I have the reports on those suspects on my computer and I can give them to the police now.

Detectives pointed out that the Chillenden case is officially solved, with Stone in jail  but said they would not be blinkered about any related leads

The killings 25 years apart have some similarities. Both involved a middle-aged dog-walker being killed in daylight on a wooded path in the same small area of rural Kent.

In the Chillenden case, Mrs Russells daughter Josie, then nine, took years to recover from the injuries suffered in the attack. Mrs James lived with her hypnotherapist husband Paul, 57, a couple of hundred yards from where her body was found last Tuesday in Snowdown, near Canterbury.

The grandmother worked in a police domestic violence unit and detectives have not ruled out the murder being linked to her official role.

Mr McDonald said previous suggestions that serial killer Levi Bellfield had carried out the Chillenden murders could still be true  but insisted the alternative suspects for that crime should still be looked at in the latest investigation.

Officers yesterday used leaflets to warn worried Snowdown residents to remain cautious, vigilant and aware of your surroundings out and about, keep your phone on you and charged, and plan your route and tell someone where you are going.

Detectives pointed out that the Chillenden case is officially solved, with Stone in jail  but said they would not be blinkered about any related leads.

As part of their investigation they are going door to door seeking CCTV footage.

Last night Mrs Jamess daughter went on social media to thank locals assisting the murder inquiry. Bethan Coles wrote Thank you all for your help  with a love heart emoji.
Scott Morrison has revealed he could not have possibly held the $5000-per head event a Labor leader accused him of earlier this week.

Queensland Labor MP Steven Miles was speaking at a free Labor Day event in Brisbane on Monday afternoon when he alleged Mr Morrison was holding an exorbitant dinner at the same time.

'Scott Morrison's in town, he's holding $5000-a-seat fundraisers, think about that,' Mr Miles said at the event.

Appearing on Sunrise on Tuesday morning, the Prime Minister addressed the allegations levelled against him by Mr Miles, claiming he was actually at home during the time in question.

'I was at home watching Shrek the musical with my daughter. There were no events that night,' Mr Morrison said.

Scott Morrison addressed allegations he held $5000-a-seat events during an appearance on Sunrise on Tuesday morning (pictured)

'He can't even get that right.'

During the speech, Mr Miles dropped the c-word when talking about the Prime Minister, later blaming his stutter for the mishap.

'Albo's here with us at Labour Day while Scott Morrison's charging $5000 a head to have dinner with him.

'What a cun... contrast.'

When asked by host David Koch whether he was insulted by Mr Miles comments or if he believed the excuse, the Prime Minister said he had brushed it off.

'This bloke's got a bit of form, I'll let him defend his own thing. He should step up to the responsibility of his position.'

Queensland Labor MP Steven Miles was speaking at a Labor Day event in Brisbane on Monday afternoon comparing PM Scott Morrison with Labor Leader Anthony Albanese

In his speech, Mr Miles compared Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese, who was in attendance at the free event, to Morrison's ritzy dinner.

The MP, who grinned and laughed as the crowd roared with laughter and cheered at the slip of the tongue, then introduced Albanese who he said would be more careful with his words.

At a press conference following the event, Mr Miles said the gaffe was the result of his stutter rather than a shot at the PM.

'I understand I might have stuttered while speaking earlier and some in the crowd might have misheard,' he said.

'What I said I want to be very, very clear that I was using the word contrast, the word contrast.'

The 43-year-old, who took over from Jackie Trad as deputy premier last year, said that despite his disagreements with Morrison's policies, he would 'never ever use language like that'.

'I understand that was a slight stutter and people might have misheard me but it certainly wasn't my intention.'
It was all smiles at The Arcs Blue Block Party
Ghislaine Maxwell's trial on charges she recruited teenage girls for the billionaire pedophile Jeffrey Epstein to sexually abuse has been delayed until the fall of 2021.

US District Judge Alison Nathan said a postponement of the trial, which had been scheduled for July 12, was appropriate because federal prosecutors added new charges to the case in March, and COVID-19 protocols made trial preparation harder.

The two additional charges stem from allegations brought forth by a fourth alleged victim.

According to a 'superseding indictment' that includes previous charges, Maxwell paid the girl hundreds of dollars to give Epstein sexual massages and even sent her lingerie.

Maxwell, 59, has pleaded not guilty to sex trafficking and other charges over her alleged role in procuring four teenage girls for Epstein to abuse between 1994 and 2004.

The new accuser, referred to a Minor Victim-4, allegedly met Maxwell at Epstein's Palm Beach home when she was around 14.

Ghislaine Maxwell's trial on charges she procured teenage girls for the late financier Jeffrey Epstein to sexually abuse until the fall of 2021.Maxwell lost her latest bail hearing in New York last week and is now likely to remain in prison until her trial. Pictured: Maxwell with Epstein in 2005

A day after her bail was rejected, Maxwell's lawyer, Bobbi Sternheim, shared a close-up snap of her in prison. Her left eye has a bruise underneath, while Maxwell's usual short dark cropped hairstyle has grown out, and is flecked with gray hairs. Following the release of the photo, a judge ordered the US government to explain why guards repeatedly flash light into Maxwell's cell overnight, an action her lawyers say may have led to the bruising

Maxwell subsequently interacted with her on 'multiple' occasions even though she knew she was under 18 at the time, it is claimed.

These interactions took place between 2001 and 2004, the indictment alleges.

The indictment also reveals that prosecutors intend to seize Maxwell's assets if she is convicted. During a bail application she revealed her and her husband Scott Borgerson are worth $22.5million.

The new indictment dramatically increases the legal peril faced by Maxwell, who has pleaded not guilty to all the allegations so far.

Disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein, who committed suicide in jail in 2019 before he could face trial in a sex trafficking case in New York

The 24-page document says 'beginning at least in or about 2001' Maxwell and Epstein 'enticed and recruited, and caused to be enticed and recruited, minor girls to visit Epstein's Palm Beach residence to engage in sex acts with Epstein, after which Epstein, Maxwell, or another employee of Epstein's would give the victims hundreds of dollars in cash.'

Maxwell is accused of calling victims to 'schedule an appointment for the victim to massage Epstein' at his Palm Beach home.

The indictment says: 'When a victim initially arrived at the Palm Beach Residence, she would be greeted by an employee of Epstein's, including, at times, Maxwell.

'The victim would then be escorted to a room with a massage table.

'Once inside, the victim would provide a nude or semi-nude massage for Epstein who would himself typically be naked. During these encounters, Epstein would escalate the nature and scope of the physical contact to include sex acts such as groping and direct and indirect contact with the victim's genitals'.

Maxwell 'facilitated Jeffrey Epstein's access to minor victims knowing that he had a sexual preference for underage girls and that he intended to engage in sexual activity with those victims,' the indictment says.

Nathan ordered prosecutors and Maxwell's lawyers to propose a specific trial date by May 10.

Maxwell lost her latest bail hearing in New York last week and is now likely to remain in prison until her trial.

The court considers Maxwell, who has US, British and French passports, a flight risk. This is the fourth time since her arrest that she has been denied bail.

Maxwell's claims that she is being mistreated in custody were not enough to persuade a panel of three appeals court judges in New York to overturn the decision to deny her bail.

The new accuser, referred to a Minor Victim-4, allegedly met Maxwell at Epstein's Palm Beach home when she was around 14

The indictment also reveals that prosecutors intend to seize Maxwell's assets if she is convicted - during a bail application she revealed her and her husband Scott Borgerson are worth $22.5million. The couple are pictured in 2013

Maxwell's lawyer said guards in her Brooklyn jail were keeping her awake at night to ensure she wouldn't commit suicide like financier and pedophile Jeffrey Epstein.

But in a brief order, the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Manhattan said that to the extent Maxwell is being deprived of sleep, she should seek relief from U.S. District Judge Alison Nathan, who oversees her criminal case.

David Markus, Maxwell's attorney, said he was 'heartbroken' by the ruling and the team are now 'considering our options for next step.'

A day after her bail was rejected, Maxwell's lawyer, Bobbi Sternheim, shared a close-up snap of her in prison.

Her left eye has a bruise underneath, while Maxwell's usual short dark cropped hairstyle has grown out, and is flecked with gray hairs.

The British socialite's lawyers included the photo in a court filing Thursday as part of their ongoing concerns about Maxwell's treatment at Brooklyn's Metropolitan Detention Center.

Following the release of the photo, a judge ordered the US government to explain why guards repeatedly flash light into Maxwell's cell overnight, an action her lawyers say may have led to the bruising.

Maxwell, 59, has pleaded not guilty to sex trafficking and other charges over her alleged role in procuring four teenage girls for Epstein to abuse between 1994 and 2004

Ghislaine MaxwelPictured: A courtroom sketch of Maxwell from her appearance on April 23

Ghislaine Maxwell's sister was at court on April 23 wearing a black beret to support the accused sex trafficker. Maxwell did not appear to see her sister Isabel who was at the back of the court wearing dark glasses and a beret to disguise herself. She appeared extremely nervous and paced around

Maxwell previously pleaded not guilty to charges she helped Epstein recruit and groom three other girls for him to sexually abuse from 1994 to 1997, and committed perjury.

Epstein, 66, killed himself in a Manhattan jail in August 2019, one month after being arrested on sex trafficking charges.

Maxwell had been appealing Nathan's March 22 rejection of a $28.5million bail package which the judge, who has denied bail three times, said did not keep Maxwell from being a 'significant risk of flight.'

Ian Maxwell, Ghislaine Maxwell's brother, said in a statement that he was 'shocked my sister's guards didn't immediately refer her for proper medical care'.

'Instead,' he said, 'they bullied and harassed her, effectively blaming the victim.

'The simple solution is to review the round-the-clock security camera footage to see what may have occurred.'

He added: 'Apart from whatever happened in this 'House of Horrors', I can report that Ghislaine's family and friends continue to support her.

'We are confident, once this is over, it will be the prosecutor who has a proverbial black eye.'

Ghislaine Maxwell, who is accused of grooming girls for pedophile ex Jeffrey Epstein, and joining in his abuse of them, has only been seen in court sketches until now, as no cameras or recording devices are allowed at hearings.

In a filing to the federal court in New York, Sternheim wrote that on Wednesday evening Maxwell was 'confronted by MDC staff due a visible bruise over her left eye'.

Sternheim, who represented Al Qaeda terrorist Khaled al-Fawwaz over two US embassy bombings in Africa that killed 224, said Maxwell got what she called a 'black eye' despite 24/7 camera surveillance on her at all time.

The filing said: 'No guard addressed the bruise until Ms. Maxwell, who has no mirror, caught a reflection of her aching eye in the glean of a nail clipper.

'At that point, MDC staff confronted Ms. Maxwell regarding the source of the bruise, threatening to place her in the SHU if she did not reveal how she got it' - the SHU is the most restrictive part of the prison.

The April 23 court hearing in which Ghislaine Maxwell pleaded not guilty marked the first time she publicly appeared in person since her arrest last July at her home in New Hampshire.

Prosecutors said she had been hiding out, while Maxwell's lawyers said she moved there to escape incessant negative media publicity.

Since her arrest, she has been jailed in Brooklyn.

Maxwell wore a loose-fitting, blue short-sleeve shirt and white face mask, with her dark hair reaching below her shoulders.

Her older sister, Isabel Maxwell, attended the hearing. Maxwell had appeared by video for her prior arraignment.

Lawyers for Maxwell have complained that she has suffered from weight and hair loss in jail, which prosecutors have denied.

Maxwell, the daughter of disgraced newspaper tycoon Robert Maxwell, is also accused of perjuring herself in a civil case.

She denies all the allegations.

Earlier this month, Maxwell's family has launched a website in support of the British socialite, insisting she's 'no monster' and protesting her innocence.

The site, realghislaine.com, invites people to 'get to know the real Ghislaine' on the website, where they shared biographical details, information about her upcoming trial, jail conditions, as well as the books she is reading behind bars.

'This website has been developed and is maintained by brothers, sisters, family & friends of Ghislaine Maxwell, the people who have known the real Ghislaine all her life, not the fictional one-dimensional character created by the media,' it states.

'We believe wholeheartedly in our beloved sister's innocence and encourage visitors to this site to sign up for updates from the family on her case by providing your e-mail address below in the strictest of confidence.'
Karl Stefanovic and Ali Langdon have gotten into a fierce debate with Scott Morrison over his decision to ban Aussie citizens stranded in Covid-ravaged India from returning to Australia.

Australians fines of $66,000 or five years in jail if they return home from the south east Asian nation, where 300,000 new cases of Covid were recorded on Monday alone.

Mr Morrison on Tuesday denied he has risked the lives of stranded Australians, but admitted it's 'highly unlikely' anyone flying home from India will go on to be jailed or fined.

When asked directly by Today show host Karl Stefanovic if people would face the full force of the harsh measures, the prime minister shifted the responsibility to Border Force officials.

Scott Morrison has defended his to ban Australians from returning home from India during a fierce debate with Today show hosts Karl Stefanovic and Ali Langdon on Tuesday (pictured)

'I would expect the Australian Border Force officials to deal with the issue sensitively and within their authorities, but I'm not going to tie their hands about how they do that,' he said.

'I think it's important not to sensationalise this.'

Stefanovic accused Mr Morrison of 'shifting' away from what he originally said over the weekend about Australians being fined or thrown in jail if they fly home from India.

'No, Karl we haven't had a shift. How you are reporting it is a shift,' the prime minister hit back.

Stefanovic responded: 'I'm sorry, didn't you have a press conference over the weekend where you stipulated that Australians coming home, if they violated that rule would be thrown in jail or fined? Did you not say that?'

Mr Morrison defended his ban on flights from India, saying the measures are in the interests of Australians.

Stefanovic accused Mr Morrison of 'shifting' away from what he originally said over the weekend about Australians being fined or thrown in jail if they fly home from India

'If we had not put these measures in place and we saw the rates of increase of the virus coming through on these flights, putting stress on our quarantine system, breaking out across the country and seeing a third wave,' he said.

Co-host Allison Langdon questioned Mr Morrison's confidence in the nation's hotel quarantine system given his fears of it not being able to cope if borders with India were to be opened.

'The quarantine system has proved one of the most effective if not the most effective in the world,' he said.

'What we're seeing in India, even in COVID terms, is unprecedented and so every system is going to face its stressors and I'm not going to break the system.'
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Police will send prosecutors evidence relating to the death of a man at Michael Barrymore's home 20 years ago, it was revealed today.

Stuart Lubbock, 31, was found dead in the pool of Mr Barrymore's 2million Essex home in 2001.

Officers are now ready to 'imminently' send a file to the Crown Prosecution Service after a man, 50, was arrested on suspicion of murder and rape. The CPS will decide whether to charge the suspect.

It is claimed that the dossier includes evidence relating to alleged involvement of the suspect in Mr Lubbock's death, which ended the TV career of Barrymore, 68, almost overnight.

An Essex Police spokesman said: 'Following our substantial and detailed investigation, we will imminently be submitting a file to the CPS for their consideration and decision.'

His 76-year-old father Terry Lubbock, who is battling cancer, was thankful for the news, but said his only regret is that 'whatever happens I will never have the day in court to face my son's killer'.

Stuart's brother Kevin, 53, said: 'This shows why my dad has never given up fighting for the justice we all deserve.'

Michael Barrymore, 68, (pictured walking his dog with a friend in March) reportedly met with police after Stuart Lubbock was found dead in his swimming pool during a party at his house in Roydon, Essex

Mr Lubbock, 31, (pictured) had been attending a party at Barrymore's luxury home in Roydon with eight other people when he died

Earlier this year, Stuart's father Terry Lubbock (right) said he wanted a coroner to oversee a new inquest into the death of his son (left) and welcomed the arrest as he fights for justice as he fights terminal cancer

Mr Lubbock, 31, had been attending a party at Barrymore's luxury home in the Essex village of Roydon with eight other people on March 31, 2001

The timeline of events following Stuart Lubbock's death 2001 March 31: Mr Lubbock, 31, of Harlow, Essex, is found dead at Barrymore's home in nearby Roydon following a party. The entertainer is questioned by police. October: Barrymore accepts an official caution for drugs offences and allowing his home to be used for smoking cannabis. No further charges are brought. 2002 September: An inquest in Epping, Essex, records an open verdict on Mr Lubbock's death. Medical experts tell the hearing that he had suffered severe internal injuries, suggesting he may have been the victim of a serious sexual assault. Alcohol, cocaine and Ecstasy were also found in his system. ITV also announces that it has 'no plans' to commission any further shows from the star. 2003 September: Barrymore abandons a comeback attempt after the first three nights of his one-man show in London receive bad reviews. December: Amid reports that he has received a 1.4 million tax bill, he leaves the UK to live in New Zealand with his long-term partner Shaun Davis. 2004 May: Barrymore announces that he has filed for voluntary bankruptcy in the UK because of the 'unexpected' tax demand. 2006 January: Barrymore returns to screens in the UK as a Celebrity Big Brother housemate. He remains in the house for three weeks and is runner-up in the final poll, leading to speculation that his showbusiness career will be revived. After emerging from the house, Barrymore holds a tearful two-hour meeting with Mr Lubbock's father Terry in a London hotel. Mr Lubbock reportedly tells the entertainer he does not hold him 'responsible' for what happened. Barrymore is said to have responded: 'It haunts me every day.' February: Mr Lubbock's family is blocked from launching a private prosecution against the celebrity. A district judge in Southend, Essex, rules there is insufficient evidence for a hearing on six offences - four related to the misuse of drugs, one alleging drunk and disorderly behaviour and one alleging assault. April: Police announce that they are reviewing Mr Lubbock's death as part of 'routine' procedure. December: Essex Police begin a new inquiry into Mr Lubbock's death. 2007 March: Police issue a new appeal for information on the sixth anniversary of Mr Lubbock's death. The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) also launches an inquiry into the original police investigation surrounding Mr Lubbock's death. June: Barrymore and two other men are arrested and questioned on suspicion of seriously sexually assaulting and murdering Mr Lubbock. They are later released without charge. 2009 February: The IPCC publishes the findings of a review of the police investigation into Mr Lubbock's death, including that officers missed crucial evidence and did not ensure vital forensic tests were completed until six years later. 2010 March: Police launch a fresh appeal for information over the death. 2011 December: Barrymore admits cocaine possession and is fined 780. 2016 December: Barrymore lodges an appeal for 2.5 million damages after suing police who arrested him over Mr Lubbock's death. 2017 August: A High Court judge rules Barrymore is entitled to 'more than nominal' damages against Essex Police over the wrongful arrest which he said destroyed his career. 2018 December: The Court of Appeal says Barrymore 'is entitled to nominal damages only', following an appeal by the police. 2020 February: A Channel 4 documentary about Mr Lubbock's death prompts Barrymore to issue a fresh denial of any wrongdoing, saying: 'I have had nothing to do with this whatsoever and yet I keep getting bashed and bullied by the media.' 2021 March: Terry Lubbock hints at the possibility of fresh evidence emerging, telling PA: 'I wouldn't be surprised if someone cracks soon under all this pressure and decides to get it off their chest once and for all.' On March 17, Essex Police announces a 50-year-old man has been arrested in Cheshire in connection with Mr Lubbock's murder and indecent assault. Advertisement

Police reportedly say they have made a 'substantial and detailed investigation' and will be handing a file to the CPS 'for their consideration and decision'.

Prosecutors will possibly look at it this week before deciding what charges, if any, to bring.

A source said police think they have enough evidence for the case to go to court.

It comes following revelations that Mr Barrymore, 68, had spoken with police about the death, and the case's lead officer, Detective Chief Inspector Stephen Jennings, had visited Stuart's father.

A source said: 'All Terry has ever wanted is justice for his boy. It breaks his heart he may not live to see it  but the next best thing is knowing there are good people.'

A 50-year-old man, who was arrested on suspicion of murder and indecent assault in Cheshire on March 17 after 'significant new information' came to light, was released under investigation earlier last month.

Butcher Mr Lubbock, 31, had been attending a party at Barrymore's luxury home in Roydon with eight other people when he died.

Mike Browne, Mr Barrymore's former agent, said: 'The police asked us if we had anything new that might have come to mind in the last 20 years but we don't.

'We both just want this to be resolved for everyone's sake.'

Mr Browne said Essex Police detectives visited his home earlier - shortly after a man, 50, was held in Cheshire in connection with Stuart's death.

He told the Mirror: 'They just really wanted to clarify if I was aware of anything coming to light over the last 20 years. Of course, my honest answer was believe me, if anything had done, you would have been made aware of it'.

Stuart was found floating in Mr Barrymore's swimming pool but nobody has been brought to justice for causing his death.

Detectives believe that Mr Lubbock may also have been abused.

The initial investigation was deeply flawed after officers failed to secure the crime scene and assumed Stuart had drowned.

A post-mortem examination showed Mr Lubbock had suffered severe internal injuries which suggested he had been sexually assaulted.

Alcohol, ecstasy and cocaine were found in his bloodstream.

The coroner recorded an open verdict.

Stuart Lubbock's death shocked Britain and ended Michael Barrymore's TV career overnight. The star, who made millions as one of the UK's top TV personalities of the 1980s and 1990s, has always denied playing any part in his suspected murder.

He has been reduced to playing Strike It Lucky live with fans on Instagram and was last seen on TV during a stint on Celebrity Big Brother in 2006.

A planned appearance on Dancing on Ice last year never happened after he broke his wrist and he was never invited back.

Last year's Channel 4 documentary about the case prompted Barrymore, 68, to issue a fresh denial of any wrongdoing, saying: 'I have had nothing to do with this whatsoever and yet I keep getting bashed and bullied by the media.'

Stuart was found floating in Mr Barrymore's swimming pool but nobody has been brought to justice for causing his death, two decades ago this month. Detectives believe that Mr Lubbuck may also have been abused by a pool thermometer and outhouse handle that went missing after his suspected murder.

The initial investigation was deeply flawed after officers failed to secure the crime scene and assumed Stuart had drowned. Mr Lubbock may have been fatally injured in the jacuzzi and then dumped in the pool to make it look like an accident, it has been claimed previously.

Michael Barrymore was criticised for leaving his home soon after Mr Lubbock was found floating in the outside pool of his 2million home, which was sold for just 1.4million last year.

The former television presenter, who lives in West London and became a household name for shows such as Strike It Lucky, has always denied involvement in the death.

He was married to agent Cheryl Barrymore for 21 years but revealed he was gay in August 1995 and split from his wife a year later.

Barrymore was arrested on suspicion of rape and serious sexual assault in 2007, along with two other people. No charges were brought due to lack of evidence.

Barrymore later launched a high court case for 2.4million damages for wrongful arrest. He received a nominal sum after Essex Police won an appeal.

Last year Detective Chief Inspector Stephen Jennings, who is now in charge of the case, revealed that two items possibly used in the brutal assault on Mr Lubbock - a pool thermometer and outhouse handle - went missing.

The crime scene was not properly secured after his death as officers at first assumed the factory worker had drowned.

Mr Jennings has also said it was likely at least two people were involved in the crime.

The policeman said at the time: 'I believe that he [Mr Lubbock] was raped and murdered that night.

'One or more of those party-goers are responsible for that serious sexual assault.'

The arrest comes just days after Stuart's father Terry Lubbock, 76, said he had hopes that a witness with information might soon come forward to help the investigation.

Mr Lubbock, who has terminal cancer, said some people who were at the party must be living under 'terrible' pressure.

Pictured: Michael Barrymore's swimming pool. Police reportedly say they have made a 'substantial and detailed investigation' and will be handing a file to the CPS 'for their consideration and decision'
Former President Donald Trump thanked the Utah GOP for booing Republican Sen. Mitt Romney at the state convention Saturday.

'So nice to see RINO Mitt Romney booed off the stage at the Utah Republican State Convention,' Trump sent out in a statement Monday afternoon. 'They are among the earliest to have figured this guy out, a stone cold loser!'

Trump and Romney have had bad blood for years - with Romney among the handful of Republicans publicly critical of Trump during the 2016 campaign - and voting to convict him of impeachment charges twice.

Former President Donald Trump thanked the Utah GOP for booing Republican Sen. Mitt Romney at the state convention Saturday

Former President Donald Trump applauded Utah Republicans for booing GOP Sen. Mitt Romney at a weekend convention

Sen. Mitt Romney was heckled on Saturday at the Republican Party 2021 Organizing Convention in West Valley City, Utah

More than two thousand Utah Republicans booed Romney as he arrived to speak at a convention in Utah

During a speech at a GOP convention in Utah on Saturday, more than two thousand attendees booed Romney.

The vocal backlash came after Romney, who represents Utah in the U.S. Senate, narrowly avoided censure by the state's GOP over impeachment votes.

'Aren't you embarrassed?' said Romney in response to the catcalling as he walked onto the stage.

'I'm a man who says what he means, and you know I was not a fan of our last president's character issues,' he said.

Shouts of 'traitor' and 'communist' could be heard from the crowd.

'You can boo all you like,' Romney continued. 'I've been a Republican all of my life. My dad was the governor of Michigan and I was the Republican nominee for president in 2012.

'So yeah, I understand that I have a few folks that don't like me terribly much and I'm sorry about that. But I express my mind as I believe is right and I follow my conscience as I believe is right,' Romney added.

Romney managed to elicit a few cheers when he asked the crowd if they were fans of Biden.

'So, what do you think about President Biden's first 100 days?' Romney asked.

The motion for Romney to be censured narrowly failed, 798 to 711, in a vote by delegates to the state GOP convention.

At one stage, the Chairman of the Utah GOP, Derek Brown, interrupted Romney's speech to tell the rowdy crowd to simmer down.

Despite the negativity, Romney ended his speech on a positive note.

'We need to come together in strength and unity,' he said.

Davis County delegate Don Guymon, who authored the censure resolution, said Romney's votes to remove Trump from office 'hurt the Constitution and hurt the party.'

'This was a process driven by Democrats who hated Trump,' Guymon said. 'Romney's vote in the first impeachment emboldened Democrats who continued to harass Trump.'

The proposal, among several platform changes debated Saturday, also sought to praise the other members of Utah's congressional delegation for their support of the former president.

President-elect Donald Trump and Mitt Romney were pictured in an awkward dinner date at Jean Georges restaurant in New York City in November 2016

Trump and Romney were also pictured weeks after Trump won the election in 2016 where the two discussed the possibility of a cabinet position for Romney

Others warned supporting the censure risked defining the party around Trump, instead of the conservative principles most delegates treasure.

'If the point of all this is to let Mitt Romney know we're displeased with him, trust me, he knows,' said Salt Lake County delegate Emily de Azavedo Brown. 'Lets not turn this into a Trump or no Trump thing. Are we a party of principle or a party of a person?'

Romney was one of seven GOP senators who voted to convict Trump for inciting the deadly riots at the U.S. Capitol on January 6.

The Senate ultimately voted 57-43 to acquit the former president, failing to meet the 67-vote threshold to convict.

Romney is not facing re-election in 2022.

Fellow GOP Sen. Susan Collins told CNN's Jake Tapper that she was appalled' when she saw video of Romney being heckled.

'Mitt Romney is an outstanding senator who serves his state and our country well,' she said on CNN's 'State of the Union.' 'We Republicans need to remember that we are united by fundamental principles, such as a belief in personal responsibility, individual freedom, opportunity, free markets, a strong national defense.'

'We are not a party that is led by just one person,' Collins insisted, adding the GOP 'remember Ronald Reagan's admonition to Republicans that the person who agrees with you 70 or 80 per cent of the time is your friend, not your enemy.'

Republican Sen. Susan Collins says that she was appalled by the Utah GOP booing and attempting to censure Sen. Mitt Romney. We are not a party that is led by just one person. #CNNSOTU https://t.co/KE6cvsT64I pic.twitter.com/KPXkUgWhcX  State of the Union (@CNNSotu) May 2, 2021

Senator Susan Collins said she was 'appalled' when she saw video of fellow centrist Republican Mitt Romney being booed and heckled at a GOP conference in his home state of Utah

Collins and Romney were two of the seven Republican senators who voted to convict Trump in his second impeachment trial earlier this year for inciting the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021.

In her CNN interview, Collins also defended Wyoming Rep. Liz Cheney, who, as Republican Conference chairwoman, is the No. 3 Republican in the House.

'Liz Cheney is a woman of strength and conscience,' the Maine senator said. 'And she did what she felt was right. And I salute her for that.'

'We need to be accepting of differences in our party,' Collins drove home. 'We don't want to become like too much of the Democratic Party, which has been taken over by the progressive left. We need to have room for a variety of views.'

Cheney was the highest-ranking Republican in the House to vote in favor of impeaching Trump for the second time.

Trump has called for the Republican Party to oust both Romney and Cheney.

Trump also took aim at Cheney Monday, sending out a statement suggesting she would lose her 2022 re-election bid.

'Heartwarming to read new polls on big-shot warmonger Liz Cheney of the great State of Wyoming. She is so low that her only chance would be if vast numbers of people run against her which, hopefully, wont happen,' Trump said. 'They never liked her much, but I say shell never run in a Wyoming election again!'
My name is Joe Biden. I'm Jill's husband. (Laughter.) And just like -- just like the lovely lady in blue over here is a professor at a community college, my wife also works for your husband. (Laughter.) I -- and thank you for the warm welcome today at the airport. Appreciate it very, very much.

And Tim Kaine -- one of the great senators and great, great friend.

A guy I've relied on most of my career -- when I was in the Senate, we worked together; and as Vice President; and now -- is Bobby Scott. Bobby, thank you for everything you do. (Applause.)

And Congresswoman Luria -- we got to meet when you were in uniform, I think, if I'm not mistaken. And you're doing a great job, and thank you for being here.

And to all the faculty and the management and the folks here at the community college.

You know, one of the things that -- that I really found interesting, Jaiden, is that -- the major you took -- cybersecurity. We spent a lot of time, as my colleagues in the Congress and the Senate can tell you, worrying and dealing on -- with cybersecurity. And it's really important that -- now that we get this under control. And we have the best trained people in the world, and you're going to be among them.

I'm here today at Tidewater Community College to talk about the America's Family Plan and -- that I announced last week -- a once-in-a-generation investment in our families, in our children that addresses what people care most about and most need -- the investment we need to win the competition -- the competition with other nations for the future. Because we're in a race. We're in a race.

It all starts with access to a good education, as you all know. When America made 12 years of public education universal in America in the early 1900s, it made us the best-educated nation in the world, and you saw the benefits that came from that.

But the rest of the world has caught up to us. The rest of the world has caught up to us. They are not waiting. And 12 years is no longer enough to compete with the world in the 21st century and lead the 21st century.

That's why my American Families Plan guarantees four additional years of public education for every person in America, starting as early as we can.

We were at an elem- -- elementary school earlier today. And what we're talking about here is -- it means universal, high-quality preschool for every three- and four-year-olds. Not daycare -- preschool. (Applause.)

And the research has shown, here at the great universities in this state and others, that children of that age who go to school -- they are far more likely to graduate from high school and continue their education beyond then, rather than start off behind the eight ball if they come from families that are not -- don't have educations -- college educations.

You know, a lot of kids start kindergarten hearing a million fewer words having spoken than other families, and it's an unfair disadvantage. But every child is capable. Every child is capable of learning.

So we just visited, by the way, a fifth-grade classroom in Yorktown earlier today, where the students are back together with their classmates and teachers in school. And we saw what's -- what being in school means for those kids.

Safely reopening the majority of the K-through-8 schools was one of my top priorities in my first 100 days because there's so much that happens when they don't have the certitude and the companionship and the familiarity of being with their friends. There's an awful lot of need in this pandemic for mental health facilities and -- and counseling.

And we met that goal by working with the governor here to get educators and school staff vac- -- vaccinated and to get them the resources they needed to open up safely.

And I've often said that children are the kite strings that keep our national ambitions aloft. We say 'all those kids,' but they're all our children. They're all our children. And they are the kite strings that literally lift our national ambitions aloft. So we've got to invest in them -- invest in our children to invest in the future.

And we can't stop there. We're going to add two years of community college on top of that. You just heard Jill talk about how community colleges and how it can change lives. Well, students here at the community colleges across the country know why.

For some, it's two years of community college to earn enough credits to transfer to a four-year university -- which is available almost in every single state -- to become a teacher, an entrepreneur, or anything else. For some, it's getting extra training through a certificate program to get a good-paying job and a business in town.

We just met with the students at the HVAC workshop -- ambitious, talented students, who are up to taking the next step in their lives. And with the skills they're learning here -- and some of those students will go on to be plumbers and members of the Pipefitters Local 110, electricians -- look, it means higher union wages with guaranteed healthcare and pensions.

And, you know, it's kind of amazing -- one of the things -- I don't know if you know -- the First Lady of this state understands; she does, I'm positive -- that an awful lot of folks who even get an opportunity to go to community college still can't get there because of food, transportation, and those other costs. And so we're going to increase Pell Grants so they'll qualify -- (applause) -- every -- no, it would make a gigantic difference. It'll make a gigantic difference.

By the way, I have to admit: If I didn't have these positions, I'd be sleeping in the Lincoln bedroom -- (laughter) -- rather than the Vice -- the President's bedroom. But it really -- you know, it really is how to start to transform a life and family and community and our economy: by investing --- investing in the people.

Every child has a capacity to learn. And I've -- if I've heard it once, I've heard from Jill a thousand times: 'Joe, any country that out-educates us will outcompete us.' And that's a fact. And she'll be deeply involved in leading this effort as well.

The second thing: The American Families Plan is going to provide access to quality, affordable childcare, keeping parents -- helping parents go back to work, providing a lifeline and benefits for children as they do better in school throughout their lives.

You know, it guarantees low- and middle-income families pay no more than 7 percent of their income for high-quality care for children up to the age of five. And that makes a gigantic difference. There's millions of women out of work today not because they're not qualified for the jobs they have, but -- they can't take care of their children and do their job. And the cost of childcare is extraordinary.

I was a single father when I first got elected to the Senate. I had two young boys raised after their mom and sister were killed, and I've -- had I not had the family I had, I'd never been able to do it. And I'm not joking about that. And I was a senator; I was making a decent salary.

The most hard-pressed working families won't have to spend a dime if, in fact, my plan works. If you're low-income folks, you'll be able to get childcare for free.

Third, the American Families Plan is going to finally provide up to 12 weeks of paid and medical leave -- paid family and medical leave. We're one of the few industrialized countries in the entire world that doesn't have this feature. No one should have to choose between a job and a paycheck or taking care of themselves, their parent, their spouse, or a child that's ill. They should have that opportunity.

And the fourth piece of the plan: The American Families Plan puts money directly into the pockets of millions of Americans. In March, we extended the tax credit for low- and middle-income families with children.

Now, if I could hold a second here, what -- you know, if you have -- make enough money and you're paying taxes, you end up in a situation where you get to deduct $2,000 per child as a tax benefit. You don't get it back, but you get to deduct it.

Well, if you're a minimum-wage worker, you're not paying much tax. And if you're making less than that, which many people are, you're not paying any federal tax. So, you'd get no benefit.

So, we put in place -- and a number of my Republican colleagues shared the view too -- although none on the voting floor -- but they -- but I think they share it as well -- and that is: Up to $3,000 per child six years and older; and $3,600 for a child that is over six year- -- under six years of age. That means two parents and two young kids with -- they get a check back from the government for $7,200 in their pockets, which they're doing now, which can help them take care of your family. And it will benefit more than 65 million children. And all the data shows it will cut child poverty in half this year -- cut it in half.

My plan extends the tax credit at least through the year 2025. Because what's going to happen in 2025, as the press knows, is the tax cuts of the last President expire. And we're going go back -- that put us $2 trillion in debt. And then we're going to compete as to what tax credits there are. I think it's about time we start giving tax breaks and tax credits to working-class families and middle-class families instead of just the very wealthy.

And here's what the American Families Plan doesn't do: It doesn't add a single penny to our deficit. It's paid for by making sure corporate America and the wealthiest 1 percent just pay their fair share.

I come from the corporate capital of the world. More corporations are incorporated in the state of Delaware than all the rest of the nation combined. And I'm not anti-corporate, but it's about time they start paying their fair share.

It's about making a choice. You know, we have out there -- this year, you had 50 corporations -- make, you know, $40 billion -- that didn't pay a single penny in taxes. Not a single penny. I don't want to punish anybody, but everybody should chip in. Everybody should pay something along the road here.

The choice is about who the economy serves. And so, I plan on giving tax breaks to the working-class folks and making everybody pay their fair share.

Here's an example of that choice: If you ask the top 1 percent to pay the same tax rate they paid in 2001, when George Bush was President, that would generate $13 billion a year. Now, that's enough for us to take around $11 [billion] of that $13 billion and provide for two years of community college free for every student in America.

So, what's fair? Go from 36 to 39.6 percent, like it used to be, and be able to take care of ever- -- what's better? Just -- just think about it in terms of what's better for America -- not Democrat, Republican, independ- -- what's going to grow America more? What's going to grow America more? What's going to make us more competitive, stronger? What's going to make us better educated?

So, for folks at home, I'd like to ask a question: Do we want to give the wealthiest people in America another tax cut? Or do you want to give every high school graduate the ability to earn a community college degree on their way to good-paying jobs or on their way to four years of school in industries of the future -- healthcare, IT, cybersecurity, you name it?

Look, another example: For too long, we've had a two-tiered tax system. Working families pay taxes they owe on the wages they earn, while some of the wealthiest Americans avoid paying anything close to that fair share.

My plan revitalizes and -- the capacity of the IRS to crack down on -- there's a number of studies, from the former Secretary of Treasury on, that millionaires and billionaires are able to avoid taxes and cheat in avoiding those taxes because we have so few agents in the IRS.

It's -- the consensus is if you increase the disclosure requirements for banks and financial institutions on accounts for the wealthiest Americans to reduce tax cheating, you will have two steps -- two steps would recover $70 billion per year that currently goes unreported and unpaid.

Now -- and we've been hearing about this for the last 10 years. Instead of cutting a number of agents, we should be increasing the number of agents -- not hounding anyone, just being able to get access to information. And shut down all the tax havens from the islands to -- anyway, I won't go into it. I can get a little carried away with this.

But, look -- and we can take this money -- this money and pay for universal pre-K for every three- and four-year-old in America. So what is better? Making people just pay their fair share. Paid family leave. Childcare costs of working families -- maximum of 7 percent of their income.

Again, it's a choice. It's more important to shield millionaires from paying their fair share? Or is it more important that every child gets a real opportunity to succeed from an early age and ease the burden on working families?

Third, we have a loophole in our tax system called 'stepped-up basis.' It's also known as the trust fund loophole. For example, if I had a million dollars in stock that I bought and it made a million dollars and I was going to cash it in, I'd have to pay capital gain on that million dollars.

But if, God forbid, on the way -- go back to where I was -- on the way to where we're talking about -- on the way to cash in my stock, I got hit by a car and got killed, I can leave it to my daughter, and she pays no tax -- a tax that was owed two seconds earlier.

It's not an inheritance tax. It was a tax was owed two -- two seconds earlier. But that's what 'stepped-up basis' means. It's a person passes away and leaves the stock in their -- to their son or daughter; son or daughter don't have to pay anything on that multimillion-dollar gain when they sell that stock. And that's worth a lot of money.

Look, they may be decent and honorable people -- and they are -- but the last thing Americans with around -- with the amount of wealth -- needs is another tax break.

We need to make a choice to eliminate the loophole -- only the gains above for people -- only the gains above people making $2 million a year -- or, excuse me, a couple -- a rate of [raise of] capital gains rate for people making more than a million dollars a year, which, by the way, would affect three tenths of 1 percent of all taxpayers -- three tenths of 1 percent of the top 1 percent.

And close another loophole, like the real estate investor loophole, where the wealthy is simply paying the same rate on their wages and investment income. That raises $40 billion a year for the next 10 years.

The reason I'm bothering to do this is I keep hearing out in the press, 'Biden is going to raise your taxes.' Anybody making less than $400,000 a year will not pay a single penny in taxes. And we will not increase the deficit either, unlike the last gigantic tax cut, which increased the deficit by $2 trillion.

It's about balancing the system and growing the economy. It means wealthy investors no longer pay lower marginal tax rates than their secretary pays -- the secretary in their office.

Do you want to know what that would do? That would take that money and extend the lifechanging middle-class tax cut and put it in place for American Rescue Plan and expand Child Care Tax Credit t- -- I mentioned earlier, that's $1,700 [$7,200] in the pockets of a family with two kids for -- now through -- through 2025.

Look, just closing these loopholes by taxing investment income at the same rate we -- for -- as wages for the wealthiest Americans, we'd have enough to extend this again through 2025.

So I ask again: Is it more important to keep these tax loopholes for millionaires -- who are good people; they're not bad folks, but -- or would we rather put $7,200 in the pockets of working moms and dads every year if they have two children?

Folks, trickle-down economies -- economics has never worked. For too long, we've had an economy that gives every break in the world to the folks who need it the least. It's time to grow the economy from the bottom up and the middle out.

We can choose to give hardworking families a break -- a tax break, in effect. We can choose to invest in our students. We can choose an economy that rewards work, not just wealth, and that chooses --

The choice I'm making and the vast majority of the American people support is: Let's give people a shot. Given even half a chance, the American people have never, ever, ever let their country down. Imagine if we give them a full chance. Imagine what it would mean for them and their families and for our country.

We're the United States of America. There's nothing -- nothing -- we've been unable to do when we do it together. So, let's get together. Let's get this done. Because the truth of the matter is that we can do this and grow the economy. I won't -- I won't go into all the other statistics, but the plan is estimated to grow the economy another trillion dollars. This will grow the economy. Everybody would be better off.

So, I want to thank you all for doing your part here to make sure that not only you're educating and giving people a real shot -- a real shot at a real life, consistent with their talents and their capacities; not limited because they don't have the money. And we're going to give it to a lot more people.

I promise you -- I promise you: America will be much stronger for it. Because, like I said, if we're setting out a universal education, it wouldn't just be 12 years anymore. It would be -- it would be those 14 years -- 16 years I'm talking about: 2 to start, and 2 at the other end.

And as your state has done under your governor and your senator and your congresspersons, your state -- if you got -- if you get four years out of here -- two -- two years out here, that's two years towards a co- -- a state university. You cut tuition in half for a four-year degree as well.

So there's an awful lot of possibilities, an awful lot of hope. And the good news is I think there's overwhelming, bipartisan support for this. You look at the polling data: Republican voters overwhelmingly support it. Now I just got to get some of my Republican colleagues to support it.

So, thank you all, and God bless you. And thank you for the work you're doing. And may God protect our troops. Thank you so much. (Applause.)

Q Mr. President, when do you think the U.S. will reach herd immunity? When do you believe the U.S. will reach herd immunity?

THE PRESIDENT: I think, by the end of the summer, we'll be in a very different position than we are now. As you know, I've worked very hard to make sure we have over 600 million doses of vaccine.

We're going to continue to make sure that's available. We're going to increase that number across the board as well so we can also be helping other nations once we take care of all Americans.

And what's happening now is all the talk about how people were not going to get shots, they were not going to be involved -- look at what that was -- we were told that was most likely to be among people over 65 years of age. But now people over 65 years of age, over 80 percent, have now been vaccinated, and 66 percent fully vaccinated. And there's virtually no difference between white, Black, Hispanic, Asian American.

And so -- because what we've done, under some criticism, is we have expanded access to vaccinations to familiar places -- 40,000 drugstores now. Also, all of the Community Health Centers that are available all across the nation. Mobile units going out. And it's getting better and better and better. And so that's why we're leading the world.

When I got elected, I said, in the first 100 days, we'd get 100 million people vaccinated. I was wrong; we got 230 million vaccinated. (Applause.)

I think -- I think you'll see -- and there's a debate, you know -- and I'll end with this -- there's a debate on what constitutes herd immunity. 'Is it 70 percent of the population? Is it 68 percent? Is it 81 percent?'

The point is that, by the end of the summer -- right now, every single person, 16 years or older, doesn't have to wait in line -- can show up and get a vaccination now. My plea to everyone: Get vaccinated now please.
Legally changing gender will cost only 5 from today after the fee was slashed from 140.

But the move to make the process kinder and more straightforward was condemned by transgender rights campaigners as a fig leaf to avoid having to make swapping gender simpler.

Anyone who wants to switch officially still faces legal requirements, including approval from a doctor and the need to live for two years in the acquired gender. However, Women and Equalities Minister Liz Truss said the changes, including being able to apply for a gender recognition certificate online for the first time, removed a key concern for trans campaigners.

Legally changing gender will cost only 5 from today after the fee was slashed from 140 and Women and Equalities Minister Liz Truss (pictured) said the changes, including being able to apply for a gender recognition certificate online, removed key concern for trans campaigners

She added: We want transgender people to be free to live and to prosper in modern Britain. In the National LGBT Survey, 34 per cent of transgender people told us that the cost of applying for a certificate was holding them back from doing so.

We have removed that barrier, and I am proud that we have made the process of getting a certificate fairer, simpler and much more affordable. The right to switch gender was introduced by then PM Tony Blair in 2004. However, feminists fear the push for transgender rights sweeps away protection for women in areas from changing rooms to competition in sport.

Miss Truss has said the system should keep proper checks and balances. But Church of England transgender activist Jayne Ozanne urged reform and said the price cut was a fig leaf to cover the fact that the process is still extremely complex.

The UK is thought to have up to 500,000 transgender people, and has issued 5,871 gender recognition certificates since 2005.

Church of England transgender activist Jayne Ozanne (pictured) urged reform and said the price cut was a fig leaf to cover the fact that the process is still extremely complex

The Government Equalities Office said tentative estimates suggest there are an estimated 200,000 to 500,000 transgender people living in the UK.

It added: The Government hopes that modernising the process of applying will allow more transgender people to legally change their sex with a GRC should they wish to do so.

The estimates are based on those given by trans campaigners.
You might want to think twice before purchasing a ultraviolet (UV) light steriliser that claims to kill the bacteria and viruses, including coronavirus, according to a new investigation.

Consumer group Which? says some UV light products sold on online marketplaces may be ineffective or could pose safety risks to users.

These include 'potentially dangerous' handheld UV 'wands', freestanding lamps, smartphone containers, tumble dryers and even mattresses.

It has long been known that UV light has a sterilising effect because the radiation damages the genetic material of viruses and their ability to replicate.

But UV light is a human health hazard because it can damage cells in our skin, potentially causing skin cancer, or eye problems like cataracts.

Which? stresses the public to avoid buying devices marketed as providing UV sterilisation, and instead use the traditional soap and water and hand sanitiser to keep skin clean and virus-free.

Consumers should also opt for bleach and detergents when cleaning high-touch surfaces around the home, especially as the lockdown starts to end and guests become allowed into people's homes.

Which? is urging shoppers to think twice before buying UV light devices that claim to kill viruses and bacteria, as experts reveal some products may be ineffective or could pose safety risks to users (stock image of UV light lamp)

ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT The three types of UV radiation are classified according to their wavelength. They differ in their biological activity and the extent to which they can penetrate the skin. The shorter the wavelength, the more harmful the UV radiation. However, shorter wavelength UV radiation is less able to penetrate the skin. The UV region covers the wavelength range 100-400 nm and is divided into three bands: - UVA (315-400 nm) - UVB (280-315 nm) - UVC (100-280 nm). Short-wavelength UVC is the most damaging type of UV radiation. However, it is completely filtered by the atmosphere and does not reach the earth's surface. Source: WHO Advertisement

UVC, the shortest-wavelength ultraviolet light, is the most germicidal in the UV spectrum, meaning it's the best at killing germs, but also at damaging human skin.

UVC light has been used for years to help destroy bacteria and viruses in commercial and industrial locations such as hospitals, factories and water treatment plants.

But the pandemic has created a growing market for lamps, wands and sterilisation boxes that emit UVC light, marketed to consumers for use in the home.

'While many consumers are keen to disinfect their homes thoroughly in light of concerns about Covid-19, they should take caution when shopping for UVC devices claiming to kill viruses and bacteria,' said Harry Rose, Which? magazine editor.

'Which? believes some of these devices are likely to be ineffective at disinfecting your home or could pose safety risks due to unclear instructions or emitting UVC light in an unsafe manner.

'The benefits of these products are often psychological and you could be better off cleaning surfaces and items the traditional way.'

Which? approached industry bodies and experts about the effectiveness and safety of UV home products for its new investigation.

The Lighting Industry Association (LIA) told Which? it encountered two common problems when testing these products.

It found devices are either failing to emit any or enough UVC to be used as an effective disinfectant, or emitting UVC in an unsafe manner.

Many UVC-emitting devices lacked safety interlocks to stop accidental skin and eye exposure, LIA said, which can cause burns and eye damage.

Shown here is the spectrum of visible and non-visible light. The three types of UV radiation are classified according to their wavelength. Within the UVC range is a type called far-UVC (more on this below)

For example, UVC 'wands' are widely-available on online marketplaces and often cost as little as 15, but Which? said it has 'particular concerns about the safety of this type of product'.

Most wands don't have an enclosed light to prevent users looking at it and potentially damaging their eyes, and some have minimal or poorly-written instructions.

LIA says some products do produce enough UVC to effectively kill germs, but warned the stated disinfection times on products are often not long enough to be effective.

They also claim there is 'no definitive third-party data' on the exposure time necessary to kill Covid-19.

A recent government survey by the Office for Product Safety and Standards found 5 per cent of people had recently bought a UV sanitising device.

Consumers should opt for soap and water and hand santiser rather than UV light devices, out of safety concerns, Which? believes

'POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS': WHICH?'S DAMNING VERDICT ON UV PRODUCTS UVC lamps These freestanding lamps are meant to be left in a room for a set period of time to emit light and disinfect the room. But experts say theres no certainty that everything in a room will be disinfected. Professor Clive Beggs from Leeds Beckett University said UVC lamps are not guaranteed to disinfect rooms from viruses or bacteria as UV light cannot get to every corner or around furniture. Lamps found on online marketplaces had some reviews where users reported accidentally walking into the room while the lamp was still on. Which? verdict: 'Not necessary and not to be trifled with. Youre better off opening a window to air a room and cleaning surfaces the traditional way.' UVC Wands UVC wands claim to sanitise items, but Which? has concerns about both the effectiveness and safety of this type of product. Most wands dont have an enclosed light to prevent users looking at them and potentially damaging their eyes. There is also no way of knowing if all traces of virus have been removed during the time suggested that you wave the wand over the item, and some may lack the power to have any effect. Which? verdict: 'Avoid. They could be potentially dangerous if youre not careful while using them, and may well not be effective.' UVC phone sterilising boxes UVC phone sterilising boxes are one of the more mainstream UVC products, according to Which?. Users are just meant to put their phone in the box, close the lid and power it up. However, there are quicker and simpler ways to sanitise your phone, such as with disinfectant wipes. Theres also uncertainty over whether the long-term use of UVC light can degrade materials such as plastic. Apple told Which? the best way to clean its phones is with an alcohol wipe. Samsung sells its own UVC steriliser device, but urged caution around buying devices from online marketplaces and warned that any Samsung phones damaged by a third-party UVC device would not be covered under warranty. Which? verdict: 'Potentially more viable than other UVC applications, but risky if it damages your phone.' UVC sterilisation bags and boxes Travel bags and sterilisation boxes can be used for disinfecting larger items such as baby bottles, wallets and keys in the same way as UVC phone boxes. But like other options, effectiveness depends on multiple factors, including what the item is. Sterilising baby bottles in a UV box after theyve been washed could be an alternative to a microwave or steam sterilisers. But like phone sterilising boxes, the long-term effect of UVC on plastic is unclear. Which? verdict: 'Potentially useful, but hard to determine quality. May impact some materials over time, and alternatives such as washing with detergent, wiping down with alcohol and good hand hygiene are also effective.' UVC fridges, tumble dryers and more Home appliance brand Beko recently launched a tumble dryer that gives you the option to refresh six dry pieces of clothing using UVC, or dry and UV sanitise 5kg of washed laundry. Theres also a fridge with a UV disinfection drawer. But while contained UVC devices probably pose less of a risk to consumers, these extra measures are likely to be unnecessary, Which? claims. Which? verdict: 'The main benefit is likely to be psychological  drying clothes and storing food in the fridge arent high-risk activities.' UVC mattress Vacuums UVC bed or mattress vacuums are finding a new market in those worried about viruses lurking in the bedroom. The UV light on the vacuum head is claimed to destroy the germs, and suck up dust and dirt. However, organisms found in the weave of fabrics or folds of bed sheets will be hidden from UV rays so could be missed or unaffected. Which? verdict: 'Regular bedding washes are sufficient.' Advertisement

While UVC has is well known to be a health hazard, recent research shows a particular type of UVC  far-UVC  is safe on human skin.

What is the difference between UVC and far-UVC light? Ultraviolet C (UVC) is a subtype of ultraviolet light, separated from UVA and UVB based on its wavelength. It is short-wave, germicidal, meaning it inhibits microorganisms, and is completely absorbed by the ozone layer and atmosphere. Conventional UVC light sources are both carcinogenic and cataractogenic, however. By contrast, far-UVC light (207222 nm) efficiently inactivates bacteria without harm to exposed mammalian skin. Far UVC is simply a short wavelength part of the ultraviolet spectrum. Advertisement

This is due to what seems to be something of a paradox  the shorter the wavelength, the more harmful the UV radiation, but shorter wavelength UV radiation is less able to penetrate the skin.

Therefore, far-UVC, which has a wavelength between 207 to 222 nanometers (within the UVC range), efficiently inactivates bacteria without harm to exposed human skin.

The potential of far-UVC to 'control the spread of airborne-mediated microbial diseases' in public places with people around was detailed in a research paper published in Scientific Reports in 2018

'A direct approach to prevent airborne transmission is inactivation of airborne pathogens, and the airborne antimicrobial potential of UVC ultraviolet light has long been established,' the authors say.

'However, its widespread use in public settings is limited because conventional UVC light sources are both carcinogenic and cataractogenic.

'By contrast, we have previously shown that far-UVC light (207222 nm) efficiently inactivates bacteria without harm to exposed mammalian skin.'

One of the study's authors, Professor David J. Brenner, Director of the Center for Radiological Research at Columbia University, has previously given a TED talk on the potential of far-UVC.

However, a potential problem is that some companies may market their ineffective sham products with the promise that they emit far-UVC light.

But if the wavelength is outside the far-UVC range, this could be potentially very dangerous upon exposure to human skin.

Alternatively, some devices may just emit visible light with a coloured filter to make it look like ultraviolet.
Up to 20 shooting stars per hour will light up the night sky this week as the Eta Aquarids meteor shower reaches its peak on Thursday night.

The show is the result of the Earth flying through a cloud of debris left behind by Halley's Comet during its last journey through the inner solar system in 1986.

The show will reach its peak on Thursday May 6 but meteors will be clearly visible from today and through to the end of the week, astronomers explain.

NASA said that to watch the shower you should 'get a comfy chair' and be prepared to sit outside for hours  but you won't need binoculars or a telescope.

This shower is best viewed in the southern hemisphere, but should be visible from most places on Earth, although the further north you are the fewer rocks you'll see.

The next meteor shower to light up the sky will be the Eta Aquariids and it will see dozens of shooting stars per hour, reaching its peak on Thursday

The show will reach its peak on Thursday May 6 but meteors will be clearly visible in the days before and after the peak, and in drabs to the end of the month

HOW TO SEE THE METEOR SHOWER This year, the shower will peak on the evening of May 5. For people in mid to northern latitudes, the radiant won't be very high in the sky, so you should be able to spot the meteors on the southern horizon. Observers in the southern hemisphere will have the best view, and will see the shower's radiant in the north. For the best viewing experience find an area away from city or street lights. 'Come prepared with a sleeping bag, blanket or lawn chair,' said NASA. 'Lie flat on your back with your feet facing east and look up, taking in as much of the sky as possible. 'After about 30 minutes in the dark, your eyes will adapt and you will begin to see meteors. 'Be patient - the show will last until dawn, so you have plenty of time to catch a glimpse.' Advertisement

NASA says the best way to watch the meteor shower is not to use equipment, but instead find a dark area with limited light pollution and look up.

The Eta Aquariids are named after the constellation Aquarius as that is where they appear to fall from every April and May - particularly the star Eta Aquarii.

For people in mid to northern latitudes, the radiant won't be very high in the sky, so you should be able to spot the meteors on the southern horizon.

Observers in the southern hemisphere will have the best view, and will see the shower's radiant in the north.

In a post on its website, NASA said: 'The constellation of Aquarius - home to the radiant of the Eta Aquarids - is higher up in the sky in the Southern Hemisphere than it is in the Northern Hemisphere.

'In the Northern Hemisphere, Eta Aquarid meteors can more often be seen as "earthgrazers."'

'Earthgrazers are long meteors that appear to skim the surface of the Earth at the horizon.'

'For the best conditions, you want to find a safe location away from street lights and other sources of light pollution,' according to the Royal Museums Greenwich.

The Moon will be in its waning crescent phase during the peak of the shower so should be dull enough not to impact on the show.

When out watching them don't just stare in on direction as you might miss the brightest and most impressive shooting stars off to the side.

The best way to watch for them, according to NASA, is to lie on your back and look straight up as it gives you the widest view of the sky without getting neck strain.

Meteors are pieces of debris that enter the atmosphere at speeds of up to 148,000 miles per hour - as they do so they vaporise and cause streaks of light.

They are the flashes of dust grains burning in the atmosphere left behind as the Earth passes the path of a comet.

That's the reason they appear on certain dates and return annually - as these comets are on an orbit and leave debris in certain parts of space.

The show will reach its peak on Thursday May 6 but meteors will be clearly visible in the days before and after the peak, and in drabs to the end of the month

REMAINING METEOR SHOWERS IN 2021 Eta Aquariids - May 5 peak

Delta Aquariids - July 30 peak

Alpha Capricornids - July 30 peak

Perseids - August 12-13 peak

Draconids - October 8-9 peak

Orionids - October 21 peak

Taurids - November 12 peak

Leonids - November 17-18 peak

Geminids - December 14 peak

Ursids - December 22-23 peak Advertisement

Renowned for their speed, the meteors over the next week will be entering the Earth's atmosphere and will leave a trail of glowing debris following them.

They're best viewed in Australia because they rise to about 50 degrees in the sky, which is the best angle to view them from.

Physicist Clare Kenyon from the University of Melbourne told the ABC the angle is perfect because it's above the horizon and has less of a chance hiding behind trees.

'You don't want a telescope, you don't want binoculars, you don't want to be zooming in on any part of the sky. It's the ideal stargazing activity to begin with because you don't need equipment, except maybe a blanket and a thermos.'

The next major meteor shower will be the Perseids in August with over 100 shooting stars per hour at their peak and showing as bright, fast meteors.

Eta Aqauriids don't produce as many stars per hour as the Perseids but astronomers say they'll be just as bright if not brighter.

According to Royal Museums Greenwich there is no specific peak for the Eta Aquariids, they tend to just plateau at a good rate over a week up to May 7.

It is one of two showers created by the debris from Halley's Comet - the other is the Orionid meteor shower in October with 25 shooting stars per hour.
Over the next decade a number of new telescopes will come online that could help to find signs of life on worlds outside the solar system.

They include orbital observatories like the James Webb space telescope and Earth-based systems like the massive Extremely Large Telescope (ELT) in Chile.

The goal of the next generation of observatories is to explore further back into the earliest years of the universe and hunt for signs of life on exoplanets.

They range from massive radio antennae, through large optical telescopes, to space-based observatories further and further away from the glare of the Earth.

A range of new telescopes will reveal more about the universe including the Extremely Large Telescope (top left), the Vera C Rubin Observatory (top right), the Giant Magellan Telescope (bottom left), the James Webb space telescope (bottom right) and the Roman telescope (inset)

Since the invention of the telescope by Dutch eyeglass maker Hans Lippershey in 1608 the technology has been used to uncover the secrets of the universe.

Optical telescopes have been used by astronomers like Galileo to discover the moons of Jupiter, hills and valleys on Earth's moon and even spots on the Sun, through to the first image of an exoplanet by the Hubble space telescope.

Since Lippershey's first telescope, astronomy has evolved to use the whole electromagnetic spectrum, from gamma rays to infrared and everything in between.

Radio telescopes like the destroyed Arecibo in Puerto Rico have been used to reveal pulsars, the hidden secrets of planets and the mysterious fast radio bursts.

The next generation of telescopes will view further into the history of the universe, look closer at exoplanets, and even reveal signs of life on distant worlds.

We have selected five of the biggest, most important and most unusual telescopes making their 'first light' by the end of the decade.

James Webb Space Telescope

NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA) plan to launch their next major space telescope later this year and it will serve as the natural successor to Hubble.

Research by Ohio State University shows that the NASA James Webb space telescope could detect a signature of life on other planets in as little as 60 hours

INSTRUMENTS ON THE JAMES WEBB SPACE TELESCOPE NIRCam (Near InfraRed Camera) an infrared imager from the edge of the visible through the near infrared NIRSpec (Near InfraRed Spectrograph) will also perform spectroscopy over the same wavelength range. MIRI (Mid-InfraRed Instrument) will measure the mid-to-long-infrared wavelength range from 5 to 27 micrometers. FGS/NIRISS (Fine Guidance Sensor and Near Infrared Imager and Slitless Spectrograph), is used to stabilise the line-of-sight of the observatory during science observations. Advertisement

Primarily an infrared telescope, it will have a wider spectrum view than Hubble and operate further out from the Earth, in a solar orbit, rather than an Earth orbit.

Research by Ohio State University claims that within five years of it coming online, James Webb will have found signs of alien life on a distant world.

Graduate student Caprice Phillips calculated that it could feasibly detect ammonia created by living creatures around gas dwarf planets after just a few orbits.

The James Webb telescope has been described as a 'time machine' that could help unravel the secrets of our universe.

The telescope will be used to look back to the first galaxies born in the early universe more than 13.5 billion years ago.

It will also observe the sources of stars, exoplanets, and even the moons and planets of our solar system.

The James Webb Telescope and most of its instruments have an operating temperature of roughly 40 Kelvin.

This is about minus 387 Fahrenheit (minus 233 Celsius).

Officials from the space agencies responsible for the telescope say the cost may exceed the $8 billion (5.6 billion) program cap set by Congress.

NASA has already poured $7 billion (5 billion) into the telescope since it was first proposed as a replacement for the long-running Hubble space telescope.

When it is launched in 2021, it will be the world's biggest and most powerful telescope, capable of peering back 200 million years after the Big Bang.

Graduate student Caprice Phillips said the results of her study show that we may 'realistically find signs of life on another planet in the next five to 10 years'

James Webb is designed to last for five years but NASA hopes it will operate for a decade or more, although due to its distance from Earth it can't be easily repaired.

It is 66ft by 46ft and will operate at the Sun-Earth Lagrange point about 930,000 miles from the Earth - almost four times further out than the moon.

The telescope is set to launch on a European workhorse Ariane-5 rocket at the end of October 2021, with the first observations expected in 2022.

Extremely Large Telescope

The European Southern Observatory's (ESO) Extremely Large Telescope (ELT) in Chile is designed as a replacement for the Very Large Telescope (VLT).

The Extremely Large Telescope is being built by the European Southern Observatory in Chile to search for Earth-like exoplanets

EXTREMELY LARGE TELESCOPE INSTRUMENTS HARMONI: The High Angular Resolution Monolithic Optical and Near-infrared Integral field Spectrograph will be the workhorse instrument for spectroscopy. METIS: The Mid-infrared ELT Imager and Spectrograph will be a mid-infrared imager and spectrograph. MICADO: The Multi-Adaptive Optics Imaging Camera for Deep Observations (MICADO) will be the first dedicated imaging camera MOSAIC: (proposal) will be used to trace the growth of galaxies from shortly after the Big Bang. HIRES: (proposal) will characterise exoplanet atmospheres. Advertisement

Aside from the imaginative name, the observatory will have 250 times the light gathering area as Hubble and produce images 16 times sharper.

Much like James Webb, ELT is designed to peer back in time to the earliest galaxies that formed after the Big Bang, almost 14 billion years ago.

When its completed, it will be the world's largest optical telescope, some five times larger than the top observing instruments in use today.

The size of the ELT has the potential to transform our understanding of the universe, ESO explained, adding it could allow us to study the atmosphere of exoplanets.

The main mirror will measure some 39 metres (127ft) across and be housed in a huge rotating dome nearly 10,000ft up a mountain in the Atacama desert.

Among other capabilities, it will add to and refine astronomers' burgeoning discoveries of planets orbiting other stars.

It will be able to find more smaller Earth-like planets, directly image larger ones, and possibly characterise their atmospheres.

It will have a total of five mirrors, the first three will be curved to form a design for excellent image quality over an area a third the width of a full moon.

The final two are almost flat for adaptive optics to study atmospheric distortions.

Construction is now underway of the foundation of ESO's Extremely Large Telescope (ELT) in the remote Chilean Atacama Desert. It will come online in 2025

ELT is designed to study the first galaxies to form after the big bang, providing clues on how they formed and evolved and create an inventory of how the universe changed over time.

In terms of aperture size it will be 30 metres larger than the predecessor Very Large Telescope, which launched in 1998.

The telescope is under construction in Chile and is due to have 'first light', that is when it first captures images, sometime in 2025.

Vera C Rubin Observatory

The Vera C Rubin Observatory in Chile, also known as the Large Synoptic Survey Telescope (LSST) will have first light by 2023.

Named after physicist Vera Rubin, the telescope will take full sky images every night, capturing a wide-field view of the galaxy

SCIENCE GOALS OF THE VERA C RUBIN OBSERVATORY Dark matter: The telescope will measure weak gravitational lensing, baryon acoustic oscillations and photometry of supernovae to search for hidden matter. Small object mapping: It will create a map of near-Earth asteroids and Kuiper belt objects. Increasing the total by a factor of 100 over current figures. Detecting transient astronomical events: This will include novae, supernova, gamma-ray burst, quasars and gravitational lensing. The telescope will also aid in the hunt of Planet 9 and map the Milky Way. Advertisement

Its primary goal will be to complete the Legacy Survey of Space and Time (LSST) using its wide-field reflecting telescope and its 27.5ft mirror.

It will photograph the entire available sky every few nights to get a broad view of all the planets, stars, moons and asteroids as they move across the sky.

The observatory has been named after American astronomer Vera Rubin who pioneered the discovery of galaxy rotation rates and dark matter.

The telescope design has a very wide field of view, up to 3.5 degrees in diameter, or 9.6 square degrees.

The Sun and the Moon when viewed from the Earth have a 0.5 degree diameter, or 0.3 square degrees.

This wide field view, combined with the large aperture, gives it a large view of the night sky, more than three times the best existing telescopes.

The primary mirror is 28ft in diameter, its second mirror is 11.2ft in diameter and it has a third ring-like mirror 16ft in diameter.

This is the natural successor of a long tradition of full sky surveys that started in the 18th century with compilations such as the Messier catalog.

The telescope within the observatory will be named the Simonyi Survey Telescope, to acknowledge the private donors Charles and Lisa Simonyi.

This wide field view, combined with the large aperture, gives it a large view of the night sky, more than three times the best existing telescopes.

There is some concern large satellite constellations like SpaceX Starlink and OneWeb could impact the wide field camera by up to 50%.

As well as campaigning to reduce the brightness of telescopes, AI can be used to make allowances for the telescopes based on their accurate positions.

The Vera C Rubin Observatory and the Simonyi Survey Telescope will finish construction this year, with first light in 2022 or 2023.

Giant Magellan Telescope

The Giant Magellan Telescope under construction in Chile is an 'extremely large telescope' with seven 27.6ft diameter mirrors.

While the final project will have seven massive mirrors, it will have 'first light' when the fourth mirror has been installed, by the end of the decade

GIANT MAGELLAN TELESCOPE FACTS First Light target: 2029 Location: Las Campanas Observatory, Chile Altitude of site:  8,248 feet Total collecting area of mirrors: 3,961 sq. feet (368 sq. meters) Mounting type: altitude/azimuth Wavelengths: From the visible to mid-infrared  320  25,000 nm (0.3225m) Advertisement

The massive exoplanet hunting telescope is a $1 billion project working in the optical and near infrared wavelength bands, with a viewing area of 3,961 square feet.

While the final project will have seven massive mirrors, it will have 'first light' when the fourth mirror has been installed, by the end of the decade.

The University of Arizona is building the mirror segments that will be arranged with one mirror in the centre and six arranged around it.

Scientists expect it to generate significantly large images due to its large aperture and advanced adaptive optics that exceed those of the Hubble Space Telescope.

The Giant Magellan is part of a new class of 'extremely large telescopes' much larger than earlier generation observatories.

These new generation observatories include the Extremely Large Telescope, also being built in Chile, and the Thirty Meter Telescope being built in Hawaii.

The first light instruments on the telescope include the Large Earth Finder, the Multi-object Astronomical and Cosmological Spectrograph and the Near-IR spectrograph.

The GMT will cover a very broad range of astrophysics, but it will specialise in several areas of astronomy including formation of stars and planetary systems.

Other work will include the properties of exoplanetary systems, stellar populations and chemical evolution, galaxy assembly and evolution, dark matter, dark energy and fundamental physics, first light and reionisation, and transient phenomena.

Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope

On a smaller scale than the James Webb telescope being built to operate in solar orbit, the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope will come online in 2025.

The telescope will also do a census of exoplanets to answer questions about the potential for life elsewhere in the universe.

SCIENCE OBJECTIVES OF THE NANCY GRACE ROMAN TELESCOPE Answering dark energy questions: Will seek to discover whether cosmic acceleration is caused by a new energy component or the breakdown of general relativity. A census of exoplanets: The telescope team will look for signs of life elsewhere the universe and see how common our solar system layout it. Guest investigator mode: This will enable survey investigations to answer questions about the galaxy. Direct images of exoplanets: The first higher-resolution direct images of exoplanets will be taken by this telescope over its lifetime, including around our nearest neighbours. Advertisement

With a 7.8ft wide field of view primary mirror, the telescope has a visible and near-infrared camera providing images comparable to those captured by Hubble.

One of the primary goals of the telescope is to answer basic questions about dark energy, including its galactic acceleration.

The telescope will also do a census of exoplanets to answer questions about the potential for life elsewhere in the universe.

It will create enormous cosmic panoramas, helping astronomers answer questions about the evolution of our universe.

Astronomers also expect the mission to find thousands of planets using two different techniques as it surveys a wide range of stars in the Milky Way.

The Roman Space Telescope was the top-ranked large space mission in the 2010 Decadal Survey of Astronomy and Astrophysics.

Roman will locate potential new worlds, or exoplanets, by tracking the amount of light coming from distant stars over time, NASA explained.

In a technique called gravitational microlensing, a spike in light signals that a planet may be present.

On the other hand, if the light from a star dims periodically, it could be because there is a planet crossing the face of a star as it completes an orbit. This technique is called the transit method.

By employing these two methods to find new worlds, astronomers will capture an unprecedented view of the composition and arrangement of planetary systems across our galaxy.

Roman will locate potential new worlds, or exoplanets, by tracking the amount of light coming from distant stars over time, NASA explained

'The missions large field of view, exquisite resolution, and incredible stability will provide a unique observational platform for discovering the tiny changes in light required to find other worlds via microlensing,' NASA said.

Many of the stars Roman will already be looking at for the microlensing survey may harbour transiting planets.

Another space telescope, ESA's Euclid, will also look for dark matter and dark energy, working alongside the Roman telescope team.

It will do this by measuring the acceleration of the universe through the measurement of the shapes of galaxies at varying distances from Earth and the relationship between distance and redshift.

The Roman telescope is scheduled for launch in the mid-2020s, and Euclid will launch in 2022. Roman will be one of NASAs most prolific planet hunters.

Space telescopes and radio arrays

Other notable telescopes currently under development include the Thirty Meter Telescope being built in Hawaii, and the Square Kilometre Array of radio telescopes under development in Australia and South Africa.

In terms of future space observatories, they will explore gravitational waves, take images of distant stars, identify Earth-like planets and look at wider ranges of light waves than previously possible with existing technology.

Among those being built is LISA (Laser Interferometer Space Antenna) launching in the 2030s and funded by NASA and ESA, a gravitational wave detector.

ESA's PLATO telescope, launching in 2026, will search for planetary transits across a million stars and look for rocky worlds orbiting a sun-like yellow dwarf star.

These future observatories will replace existing telescopes like Hubble, the Very Large Telescope, Spitzer and Kepler and the recently destroyed Arecibo observatory.

Over the decade following their launch they will reveal more about how the universe formed, how strange phenomenon work and possibly even detect the first signs of life on a planet outside our solar system.
Google is hosting adverts for unofficial services like applying for a visa that charge vastly inflated amounts, a BBC investigation has revealed.

The search engine returned ads for services charging 50 to change an address on a driving licence  something that can be done for free on the government's website.

Applying for an ESTA travel permit on the US government's website should cost no more than 10 ($14).

But Google 'repeatedly' allowed ads for websites charging more than 58 ($80) for an ESTA, the BBC found.

Adverts for unofficial services selling government documents are against Google's own rules.

Experts are warning the public to be wary of the top search results that appear on Google next to the word 'Ad'. These may charge exorbitant amounts for services that should be fairly cheap - or even free, the BBC investigation finds

The third parties responsible are paying Google to promote their ads so they appear at the top of search results.

SERVICES THE ADS OFFER - ESTA - US ESTA - US visa - Canada ETA (a travel document for Canada) - Canada visa - Australia visa - Apple for driving licence - Renew driving licence - Driving licence change address Source: BBC Advertisement

They do process the customer's request and return the documents as paid for, meaning they're not doing anything illegal.

But the BBC investigation shows these third parties are making money at the customer's expense.

Some of the companies charge more than five times the amount charged by the official websites.

Martin Lewis, founder of the website Money Saving Expert, explained: 'They're not stealing your money  they're charging you a fee for something that is completely pointless.'

When searching for a service on Google, the search results at the very top tend to have the word 'Ad'.

These are the search results that the public should be wary of, according to Lewis.

'When you use the major search engines including Google, you have to always look for the "ad" label,' he said.

'If there's a little box that says "ad" on the left, the only reason they are where they are is because they have paid to be there.

'Scroll down below all the ads and find the natural search winner.'

MailOnline's screenshot when searching for 'apply for ESTA'. Experts warn the public over search results with 'Ad' in bold next to them

The investigation found ads for expensive third-party sellers every time it searched during a 12-month period.

These included applying for a driving licence, renewing a driving licence or changing an address on a driving licence in the UK.

Other ads included services for purchasing an ESTA, a US visa, a Canada ETA (a travel document for Canada), a Canada visa and an Australian visa.

According to the BBC, Google banned ads for third-party services that charged more than the official government website  back in 2018.

However, in May 2020 it appeared to toughen its stance further  it changed its policy to ban ads 'for documents and/or services that can be obtained directly from a government or a delegated provider'.

The new investigation shows that Google is therefore going against its own policies on the matter.

In a statement, Google said: 'We have strict policies that govern the types of ads and advertisers we allow on our platforms.

'We only allow governments or their delegated providers to advertise for official documents or services.'

Google told the BBC that it uses machine learning and human reviewers to spot problems related to advertisers.

The firm removed 3.1 billion adverts that violated its policies in 2020, it claimed, and started to verify advertisers on its platforms in January 2021.

Earlier this month, This Is Money set up a fake online investment company called best2invest for just 95.88, which was approved by Google.

A best2invest ad was approved by Google despite it being initially flagged as suspicious, and in less than a week, it was viewed 3,539 times and generated 74 clicks.
Looking at your phone makes other people nearby do the same in less than a minute, a new study reveals.

Researchers in Italy investigated human 'mimicry' or the 'chameleon effect'  subconsciously replicating the physical actions of another human.

Out of 184 people, half replicated the action of touching and looking at their phone 30 seconds after a subconscious trigger, researchers found.

The experts say copying smartphone use is similar to the well-known 'contagious yawning' phenomenon, when an individual yawns in response to someone else doing so.

Mammals have evolved to subconsciously mimic each others' behaviour without knowing it. The practice is likely to assist with group bonding.

However, it's unlikely staring at a smartphone has any social benefits in a group, because it's such an insular activity.

You might want to try this with your mates - look at your phone and see how long it takes them to do the same

The study was conducted by a team of behavioural experts at the University of Pisa, Italy.

'Our findings further our understanding on mimicry in the use of smartphones at everyday-social scale and indicate that mimicry can be at the basis of the widespread use of these devices at a large scale,' they say.

'The use of smartphones can increase social isolation through interference and disruption with real-life ongoing activities.'

THE CHAMELEON EFFECT The chameleon effect refers to subconscious mimicry of the postures, mannerisms, facial expressions, and other behaviours of people with whom we interact. It means one's behaviour passively and unintentionally changes to match that of others in one's current social environment. The chameleon effect has been shown to have a positive effect on people's social interactions. Advertisement

The study involved 96 men and 88 women, all observed by the researchers in Italy between May and September last year.

The subjects, who were unaware that they were being observed for such purposes, were people known (family members, friends, acquaintances and co-workers) and unknown to the researchers.

They were observed in their natural social settings during their daily activities, such as at work, restaurants, cinemas, gyms, waiting rooms, social parties, social meals, public parks and family environments.

Researchers subjected the participants to two different conditions.

In the 'experimental' condition, the experimenter used his or her smartphone by fiddling and swiping at the screen, while looking at the screen for at least five seconds.

In the control condition, the experimenter used his or her smartphone by fiddling and swiping at the screen  but without looking at the screen.

This small but crucial difference between the conditions allowed the researchers to understand whether appearing to directly give a smartphone one's attention provokes mimicry.

Copying smartphone use is due to chameleon effect, but it may not have the same social benefits as other mimicking behaviours (stock image)

How to tell if someone is lying to you: Watch to see if they mimic your actions One of the best ways to tell if someone is lying to you is to see if they mimic your actions, a 2021 study suggests. Dutch researchers from Erasmus Universiteit Rotterdam used motion capture to monitor the behaviour of liars as they told increasingly bigger lies to someone else. We can imitate the behaviour of others unconsciously, and we become more likely to automatically mimic them if the brain is working hard, the researchers explained. Because it's harder for the brain to be dishonest than to tell the truth, we tend to mimic our victims when we're being deceitful, they added. Read more: Liars mimic the actions of their interviewers when spinning a lie Advertisement

In the experimental condition, 50 per cent of participants looked at their phone within 30 seconds of the trigger, while in the control condition, just 0.5 per cent did so.

'Its paying attention to the phone that sets off the mimicry,' study author Elisabetta Palagi from the University of Pisa explained to New Scientist.

Palagi was involved in another recent study that found lions in packs can trigger each others' yawns, just like humans.

'Most people get infected by other peoples mobile phone behaviour, without even realising it,' she said.

Veronica Maglieri, another of the study authors, found evidence that the action was totally outside their conscious control.

'One woman who was sitting across from me in a waiting room saw me check my phone, and within seconds she took out her phone and called someone and said, "Hey, I just felt like calling you; I dont know why," ' Maglieri told New Scientist.

Sex, age and relationship quality between the experimenter and the observer had no effect on the smartphone mimicry response.

This was despite previous studies cited by the researchers that indicated young people, and particularly women, are heavy smartphone users during social interactions.

Interestingly, mimicry tended to decrease during social meals, suggesting that when we have something more important to do, like eating, the urge to reach for our phone is less powerful.

'Due to the role of food as a tool in increasing social affiliation, it is possible that during communal eating, people engage in other forms of mimicry involving facial expressions and postures rather than the use of objects,' the team say.

One of the limitations of the study was that it was conducted during the pandemic, which likely distorted normal conditions.

'It is difficult to say whether the mimicry response we recorded in the use of smartphones was affected by the lockdown imposed by the Italian government,' the researchers add.

'We do not know if our findings are linked to the previous period of forced social isolation during which people relied almost entirely on their devices to keep in contact with others and maintain their social bonding.'

The study has been published in the Journal of Ethology.
NASA scientists have concluded that even a nuclear bomb wouldn't be able to stop a giant asteroid from destroying a huge chunk of Earth.

In a simulated exercise, US and European scientists were told they had six months to come up with a lifesaving plan to stop a massive rock smashing into Earth that had been spotted 35 million miles away.

The study was conducted over the course of four days, from April 26 through April 29, and astronomers used radar systems, data imaging and other technologies like the world's largest telescope.

Scientists determined that six months is not enough time to prepare a spacecraft to smash into the asteroid and that a nuclear bomb - like in the film Armageddon - would not take the monster space rock down.

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An asteroid with the force of a massive nuclear bomb could destroy a huge chunk of Europe if it fell to Earth, but a new simulation shows we could do nothing to stop it. NASA conducted a tabletop exercise last week to better understand our in-space prevention against potential space rocks that threaten our existence

The exercise, called 'Space Mission Options for the Hypothetical Asteroid Impact Scenario,' involved nine NASA scientists who spent four days looking at how such an event would unfold unfold over the course of six months as if it were a real world emergency.

Day ONE of simulation - April 19, 2021:

The asteroid - named 2021PDC - was discovered by the near-Earth object survey project, operated by the University of Hawaii for NASA's Planetary Defense Program.

The simulated asteroid was found to be 35 million miles away and at this time it had just a five percent chance of impacting Earth on October 20.

Day TWO of simulation - May 2, 2021:

Astronomers analyzed data they gathered to refine 2021PDC's orbit and impact probability.

The team used image data collected in 2014 of the asteroid's previous close approach to Earth.

It took scientists three months to determined the asteroid had a 100% probability of its expected impact region, which fell within Germany, the Czech Republic, Austria, Slovenia, and Croatia.

This data allowed astronomers to reduce orbit uncertainties and conclude the simulated asteroid had a 100 percent probability of hitting Earth in Europe or northern Africa.

And this is when the team quickly went to work on how to prevent 2021PDC from impacting Earth.

Space mission designers looked to disrupt the asteroid before impact, but concluded the short amount of time 'did not allow a credible space mission to be undertaken, given the current state of technology,' participants said.

Scientists also proposed nuking the asteroid, which would see as the obvious attack to many, but the team found hidden obstacles.

Pictured is map showing potential impact sites of 2021 PDC, which scientists created to spur interdisciplinary conversations about planetary defense. It took the 184 days to determine the impact region and probability of the asteroid making impact with our planet

Simulations showed that if a nuclear device made contact, the space rock could be decreased to a less destructive size.

The simulation suggested 2021PDC could be anywhere from 114 feet to half a mile in size and it is not clear if a giant bomb could take the asteroid down.

Day THREE of simulation - June 30, 2021:

The exercise jumped to when the world was preparing for impact.

Using the world's largest telescopes, astronomers around the globe continued to track 2021PDC every night.

Through this they refined the asteroid's orbit and significantly narrow its expected impact region to fall within Germany, the Czech Republic, Austria, Slovenia, and Croatia.

The final day of the hypothetical asteroid impact exercise, Day 4, fast forwarded to October 14 - just six days before impact. The failure of the exercise lies with our inability to send a spacecraft to the asteroid months before impact



Day FOUR of simulation - October 14, 2021:

Just six days before impact. 2021PDC was now an estimated 3.9 million miles from Earth, which was close enough for Goldstone Solar System Radar to detect and analyze 2021PDC and significantly refine the asteroid's size and physical characteristics.

This showed the asteroid was much smaller than previously thought, thus reducing the expected region of damage from the impact.

At this point, astronomers were able to narrow the impact region to be centered near the border of Germany, the Czech Republic, and Austria, and determined the asteroid had a 99 percent probability of impacting within this region.

Lindley Johnson, NASA's Planetary Defense Officer, said: 'Each time we participate in an exercise of this nature, we learn more about who the key players are in a disaster event, and who needs to know what information.'

The joint NASA-FEMA exercises included representatives of several other federal agencies, including the Departments of Defense and State. Pictured are scientists conducted simulations as if it were a real world emergency

'These exercises ultimately help the planetary defense community communicate with each other and with our governments to ensure we are all coordinated should a potential impact threat be identified in the future.'

NASA has participated in seven impact scenariosfour at previous Planetary Defense Conferences (2013, 2015, 2017, and 2019) and three in conjunction with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

The joint NASA-FEMA exercises included representatives of several other federal agencies, including the Departments of Defense and State.

Dr. Paul Chodas, director of CNEOS, said: 'Hypothetical asteroid impact exercises provide opportunities for us to think about how we would respond in the event that a sizeable asteroid is found to have a significant chance of impacting our planet.'

'Details of the scenariosuch as the probability of the asteroid impact, where and when the impact might occurare released to participants in a series of steps over the days of the conference to simulate how a real situation might evolve.'
A leading Chinese Internet company rolled out a fleet of fully driverless robot taxis on Sunday.

Ten Apollo Go Robotaxis started picking up passengers in west Beijing, charging approximately $4.60 per ride.

Developed by Baidu, they're the first paid autonomous taxis in China that don't have a safety driver behind the steering wheel.

The vehicles are programmed with eight destinations in Shougang Park, home of the upcoming 2022 Winter Olympics.

However, there is a remote operator on hand that can assume control of the vehicle in case of emergency.

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Baidu's fleet of 10 Apollo Go autonomous robotaxis starting picking up passengers in Beijing's Shougang Park on Sunday over the Labor Day holiday weekend

Baidu, China's answer to Google, debuted the fully driverless robotaxis during a holiday weekend  Monday is International Workers' Day, or Labor Day.

The cabs shuttled passengers to offices, coffee shops, hotels and a parking lot around Shougang Park, a former industrial zone in West Beijing that's undergoing gentrification.

The 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics will be held at Shougang Park and Baidu expects Apollo Go Robotaxis will be used to take athletes and staff to and from Olympic venues.

'Introducing unmanned services is an indispensable stage for the commercialization of autonomous driving,' said Yunpeng Wang, Baidu's general manager for autonomous-driving technology.

This is the first commercial robotaxi in China without a human driver behind the wheel. For now, a safety engineer sits in the front passenger seat in case of emergency

To hail a vehicle, users make a request on the Apollo Go App the taxi announces its arrival with a polite honk.

Users are required to scan a QR code and health info before entering the car to both confirm their identity and prevent spread of disease.

Apollo's AI won't start the journey until safety protocols have been confirmed, including making sure the doors are shut and all seatbelts are fastened.

Unlike previous demonstrations, there was no human driver behind the wheeljust a safety engineer sat in the front passenger seat.

The cabs shuttled passengers to offices, coffee shops, hotels and a parking lot around Shougang Park, a former industrial zone in west Beijing that's undergoing gentrification and will be the site of the 2022 Winter Olympics

Users hail a cab by selecting it on the Apollo Go app. The doors are unlocked by scanning a QR code and health information

The car's 5G Remote Driving Service also allows a remote operator to assume control of the vehicle in case of emergency.

In October 2020, Waymo, a subsidiary of Google's parent company, Alphabet Inc, launched driverless taxi service in the suburbs of Phoenix, Arizona.

Baidu's 10 robotaxis are now operating in a 1.2-square mile section of Beijing's Shougang Park, offering passengers ages 18 to 60 a ride to one of eight pre-programmed destinations.

Wang predicted Apollo Gos will be adopted by other 'first-tier Chinese cities' and then international locales, providing more convenient and eco-friendly transit options around the world.

'The commercialization of autonomous driving can alleviate congestion effectively and help to reach the peak carbon dioxide emissions and achieve carbon neutrality in China,' he added.

One rider who works in the artificial intelligence industry praised the smooth experience she had in Apollo Go.

'There is a strong sense of technology, because nobody is in the driver's seat,' Kelly Wang told the Associated Press. 'I would recommend people experience this.'

The cabs were pre-programmed with eight destinations and each ride costs approximately $4.60

Since first investing in driverless vehicles in 2013, Baidu has developed a fleet of 500 vehicles for autonomous driving trials

Not everyone was convinced driverless cars are such a great idea, though.

'We've all had experiences such as other cars jumping the queue or making a sudden lane change,' visitor Amy Li told the AP. 'People have emotions while robots don't, at least at present.'

Autonomous vehicles 'may not be able to deal with such changes,' she said.

Since first investing in driverless vehicles in 2013, Baidu has developed a fleet of 500 vehicles for autonomous driving trials.

Apollo's AI won't start the journey until safety protocols have been confirmed, including making sure the doors are shut and all seatbelts are fastened

Wang insisted the company had conducted 'countless scalable driverless tests in many cities over a long period of time' before Sunday's launch.

It began testing the Apollo Go in Beijing neighborhoods like Yizhuang, Haidian and Shunyi in October 2020, clocking more than six million miles of road testing in all.

Two years ago, Baudi announced a partnership with BlackBerry to use the smartphone maker's QNX software to develop an operating system for computer chips used to run self-driving vehicles.

In January, it was announced Baidu's high-definition maps will be integrated into BlackBerry's QNX operating system into new models of the GAC New Energy Aion.
An out-of-control 21-ton Chinese rocket is falling to earth and could land on populated areas, experts warn.

Chinas Long March 5b rocket that launched Thursday is predicted to crash back to Earth within the next few days.

Jonathan McDowell, an astronomer who tracks objects orbiting Earth, told SpaceNews that it's path takes it a little farther north than New York, Madrid, Beijing and as far south as southern Chile and Wellington, New Zealand'.

It could land anywhere in this range, that covers oceans and populated and unpopulated areas, but most of it would burn up in the atmosphere.

Satellite trackers have detected the 100-foot-long rocket travelling at more than four miles per second.

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Chinas 21-ton Long March 5b core stage rocket is orbiting the planet in a path that could lead to the massive vehicle crashing back to Earth within the next few days, experts warns. Pictured is the rocket when it launched last week

China launched Long March 5B at 11:23 am local time on Thursday to deliver the first stage of its upcoming space station.

The module, named 'Tianhe', or 'Harmony of the Heavens', will become living quarters for three crew members once the massive structure is complete.

China aims to complete its Chinese Space Station, known as Tiangong (Heavenly Palace) by the end of 2022, state media reported, after several further modules are launched.

When complete, Tiangong Space Station will orbit Earth at an altitude of 211 to 280 miles.

Analyzing the rockets orbit in space, experts have generated a predicted trajectory for when the core stage falls back to Earth. Pieces that survive the burn up in the atmosphere could land just north of New York, Madrid, Beijing or as far south as southern Chile and Wellington, New Zealand '.

The core stage launched Thursday to deliver the first modular of the nations new space station, called Tianhe. Systems that track space debris picked up the core stage's location (red)

3D rendering of the Chinese Space Station, or Tiangong Space Station, as it'll look when fully constructed. Tianhe will form the main living quarters for three crew members. Shenzhou is an existing spacecraft that would dock at the station with crew

It's expected to have a mass between 180,000 and 220,000 pounds  roughly one-fifth the mass of the ISS, which is 925,335 pounds.

China aims to become a major space power by 2030 to keep up with rivals, including the US, Russia and the European Space Agency, and create the most advanced space station orbiting Earth.

Chinese Space Station modules - Tianhe: Core module. Launched on April 29, 2021 - Wentian: Experiment module I. Launch planned for 2022 - Mengtian: Experiment module II. Launch planned for 2022 - Xuntian: Space telescope module. Planned launch in 2024 to co-orbit with Chinese Space Station Advertisement

ISS, currently in orbit, took 10 years and more than 30 missions to assemble from the launch of the first module back in 1998.

The ISS is backed by five participating space agencies  NASA (US), Roscosmos (Russia), JAXA (Japan), ESA (Europe), and CSA (Canada)  but China was originally barred from participating by the US.

However, the return of the rocket could put an end to China's celebration if the vehicle lands in an inhabited area.

Space debris trackers observed it moving slowly and unpredictably to Earth over the past few days, and reentry of the vehicle would be one of the largest uncontrolled descents on record.

Long March 5B is about 100 feet long and 16 feet wide and although more than 10 tons of space debris has been left in orbit for an uncontrolled reentry, McDowell said that by current standards it's unacceptable to let it reenter uncontrolled.

China is aware of the potential uncontrolled descent, as Holger Krag, head of the Space Safety Program Office for the European Space Agency, told SpaceNews: It is always difficult to assess the amount of surviving mass and number of fragments without knowing the design of the object, but a reasonable 'rule-of-thumb' is about 20-40% of the original dry mass.

Pictured is predicted paths of the rocket over the eastern coast of the US. Calculations reveal six possible paths Long March 5B could take

China launched Long March 5B at 11:23 am local time on Thursday to deliver the first stage of its upcoming space station. The modular, named 'Tianhe', or 'Harmony of the Heavens', will become living quarters for three crew members once the massive structure is complete

China previously launched Long March 5b in May 2020 (pictured) to test the vehicle in preparation of sending people to the moon, but this mission also ended with an uncontrolled reentry.

China previously launched Long March 5b in May 2020 to test the vehicle in preparation of sending people to the moon, but this mission also ended with an uncontrolled reentry.

The core stage of the Long March 5B rocket was sent into space on May 5 and fell to Earth a few days later, just off the coast of West Africa.

Its descent was confirmed by the 18th Space Control Squadron, a unit of the US Air Force that tracks space debris in Earth's orbit.

The core stage of the Long March 5B rocket was sent into space on May 5 and fell to Earth a few days later, just off the coast of West Africa. Its descent was confirmed by the 18th Space Control Squadron, a unit of the US Air Force that tracks space debris in Earth's orbit

The force said it was notable not just for the size of the rocket but also the extent of the window of its uncontrolled descent.

This uncontrolled descent left trackers guessing exactly where it would eventually land - with speculation it could be in the ocean or on land in Africa, US or Australia.

Before it splashed down in the waters off the west coast of Mauritania the rocket core flew over Los Angeles and New York City.
A new study dives into the science behind 'feel-good' movies to reveal why films like 'Love Actually' and 'Pretty Woman' make viewers laugh and smile, even when worries fill their real world lives.

A team from Max Planck Society found that such films have an element of humor, a classic happy ending and certain recurring plots and characters.

This, according to researchers, typically includes an outsider in search of love, who proves themselves and fights against adverse circumstances until they find a fitting role in the community.

At the same time, these features are often embedded in a fairy-tale setting, which is another typical aspect of the genre and contributes considerably to its perceived lightness - and the elements combined create a feel-good film.

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A new study dives into the science behind 'feel-good' movies to reveal why films like 'Love Actually' and 'Pretty Woman' makes viewers laugh and smile, even when worries fill their real world lives

Movies, although entertaining, can create different emotions for viewers ranging from happy, to sad and terrified.

Comedies are found to lower stress and blood pressure, while horror flix get the heart pumping and adrenaline rising.

With this in mind, the team from Max Planck Society wanted to see what constitutes as a feel-good movie and why people are captivated by them.

Scientists conducted a study with nearly 450 participants from Germany, Austria, and the German-speaking regions of Belgium and Switzerland.

A team from Max Planck Society found that such films have an element of humor, a classic happy ending and can also be identified by certain recurring plots and characters

Their responses point to romantic comedies as having a particularly high potential for emotional uplift.

The feel-good films they identified as typical include 'Love, Actually,' 'Pretty Woman,' 'Amelie' and 'The Intouchables.'

The study's findings provide clues as to which content-related and formal characteristics films must have in order for audiences to feel particularly good while watching them.

However, this uplifting movies are not just those with romance and humor - they also include a little drama.

The study showed that scenes and plots that have a strong emotion effect are also considered feel-good films.

Combine all of these elements into a fair-tale setting and you have a movie that is sure to tug on your heart strings.

The stud emphasized the fact that many people watch feel-good films specifically to relax and lift their spirits.

'Many of the study participants agreed that while feel-good films may be sentimental, they were not kitschy, and that above all, they were technically well made,' researchers shared in a statement.

'In this respect, the positive use of the genre label by viewers differs considerably from the predominantly negative perspective brought to it by professional film critics.'
Your Apple Watch may tell you when you've had too much to drink or if your blood sugar is too high.

In recent SCC filings, UK medical tech company Rockley Photonics listed Apple as its 'largest customer,' which could add its non-invasive sensors to the devices to measure a number of markers in the blood.

The sensors would hide with Apple's device, laying on the wrist, and monitor blood pressure, blood sugar and alcohol levels.

The tech giant's Apple Watch 6 is the first to read blood oxygen levels, but if the new technology makes it into the upcoming Watch, it could be a game changer for the more than 436 million people worldwide with diabetes.

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Apple may soon add a blood-glucose monitor to an upcoming smartwatch, allowing diabetics to monitor their blood sugar non-invasively. Sensors on the Apple Watch 6 (pictured) are already capable of measuring blood-oxygen levels

Rockley Photonics' products track various health functions non-invasively with infrared, including body temperature, blood pressure and glucose, alcohol and oxygen levels in the blood.

'We are addressing the visible range and extending it into the infrared range, getting much more accuracy using laser technology compared to LEDs, which opens up a whole range of things,' Rockley CEO Andrew Rickman told Gazette Byte.

The company shrunk a benchtop spectrometer down to the size of a chip, allowing it to go 'a lot further than watches today,' Rickman added, 'a lot deeper, but not as deep as a blood draw.'

The mini-spectrometer can detect glucose, urea, lactate and other chemical biomarkers in the blood that are indicators of disease.

Rockley Photonics, makers of chipsets that can detect blood-sugar levels, blood pressure and other diagnostics, recently disclosed that tech giant Apple is its main customer

More than 30 million Americans have Type 2 diabetes, which requires frequent blood-glucose testing throughout the day.

While the condition most often develops in people over age 45, more and more children, teens, and young adults are developing it, according to the CDC.

Apple CEO Tim Cook personally test-drove a blood-glucose tracker in 2017, CNBC reported and there were rumors such a monitor would come with the Apple 7, hitting stores in September 2021.

But Rockley won't deliver its chipsets for health monitoring features until the first half of 2022 at the earliest, the Telegraph reported.

Rockley disclosed that Apple accounted for the majority of its revenue in 2019 and 2020 in SEC documents as it prepares for a public offering with a projected valuation of around $1.2 billion.

In February, the company announced it secured $65 million in funding to accelerate growth, bringing its total capital to over $390 million.

'There is tremendous need for technologies that can enable effective digital health and wellness, driven by the associated benefit provided to population health,' said Rickman, the UK's first Internet billionaire.

'We are committed to our Tier-1 customers and our ability to help expand their product offerings and the innovative data-driven business models these products will enable,' Rickman added.

Apple already has a patent for a blood pressure monitor, according to Tom's Guide.

Released last fall, the Apple Watch 6 touted a number of health features, including a sensor that reads blood-oxygen levels in just 15 seconds, by measuring the color of blood flowing through the wearer's body.

Blood oxygen is typically used as a measure of fitness and heart health, reflecting how well red blood cells carry oxygen around the body.

Critics have cautioned that relying on a smartwatch in lieu of actual medical care can saddle consumers with unnecessarily medical bills and overtax already frayed healthcare systems.

A 2020 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Informatics Association found that only about 10 percent of Apple Watch owners alerted of an abnormal heart rate were diagnosed with any condition.

The watches may also lead people to ignore legitimate symptoms, like dizziness or shortness of breath, because they haven't received an official alert.

The heart monitor on the Apple Watch Series 4, released in 2018. lets users perform an electrocardiogram to measure the electrical activity of their heart.

But consumers often don't understand its sensors are much less sophisticated than the ECG you'd get in a doctor's office, which gathers data from a dozen areas of your heart.
Dark humour, witty dialogue and a handful of some of Britain's best comedy actors - if that sounds like a bit of you, Sky's new original comedy Bloods will be right up your street.

The six-part series, hitting screens on May 5, follows a pair of seemingly mismatched paramedics and their ambulance station colleagues, as they navigate the life-saving world of a south London emergency service.

It boasts an all-star cast, led by Golden Globe nominated Jane Horrocks and Peckham-born BAFTA nominee, Samson Kayo.

Set within the gritty, fast-paced world of never-ending 999 call outs, Bloods charts frontline workers Maleek (Kayo) and Wendy's (Horrocks) battle to gain the respect of their fellow paramedics - all of whom have their own quirks and desires, be it lusting after a fellow colleague or misplaced ambitions of grandeur.

Sky One's new comedy Bloods boasts an all-star cast, led by Golden Globe nominated Jane Horrocks and Peckham-born BAFTA nominee Samson Kayo

Despite the serious nature of their work, this laugh-a-minute show made for Sky by BAFTA award-winning Roughcut TV offers a fun view of life as a paramedic and the camaraderie that goes with it - peppered with typically British humour!

And let's face it, we could all do with a bit of a laugh right now - not to mention something new to watch on the box!

Here's why Bloods deserves to be top of your spring TV watch list.

UNMISTAKABLY BRITISH HUMOUR

Bloods opens with Maleek and his partner Kevin performing CPR on an unconscious man by the River Thames.

After a few tense minutes, Kevin's admirably relentless attempts to bring the patient back to life come good - only for him to be the one left needing medical attention when Maleek accidentally zaps him with the defibrillator during their celebrations.

It sets the tone for the rest of the series, where serious, life-or-death scenarios are offset by the characters' playful banter, dark humour and urban British lingo.

At times deliciously dark - think playing Jenga in the company of a corpse and likening the deceased's bloated dead dog to a 'big hairy Space Hopper' - Bloods has a warm centre, with even its most outrageous characters proving impossibly endearing as the series progresses.

Bloods is a distinctively British series that provides a gritty view of this south London paramedic service. And as one character points out, 'you need humour in this game'.

A STELLAR CAST

Along with Horrocks and Kayo, there are a host of familiar faces donning an iconic green and yellow paramedic suit in Bloods.

Adrian Scarborough takes on the role of long-serving (and long-suffering) Gary in Bloods.

He is partnered with bolshy, no-nonsense Kareshma - played by actress Aasiya Shah - who punches locker doors when she doesn't get her own way.

Adrian Scarborough takes on the role of long-serving (and long-suffering) Gary, who's partnered with bolshy, no-nonsense Kareshma

Jo, the gloriously inappropriate and often cringe-inducing ambulance station boss, is portrayed by Lucy Punch, whose string of acting credits include films and TV on both sides of the Atlantic.

Lawrence - the oblivious object of Jo's affections - is brought to life by Julian Barratt, former surrealist comedy partner of Noel Fielding.

And lovable double-act Darrell and Darryl are played by Australian comedian Sam Campbell and Kevin Garry respectively.

SNAPPY SOUNDTRACK Much like an ambulance weaving in and out of traffic, Bloods moves at a high octane pace, with short, snappy scenes punctuated by its high impact soundtrack. A toe-tapping blend of modern soul and funk, viewers are treated to snippets of music and drum riffs throughout each episode which helps keep the action moving. Every episode ends with the track Need Your Love by Curtis Harding, a homage to Motown that is bound to leave you nodding along on the sofa.

AN UNLIKELY DUO LEADING THE CHARGE

When his partner Kevin asks for a transfer following the 'defib' incident, tough-acting loner Maleek is paired with over-friendly, mischievous divorcee Wendy, from Nottinghamshire.

While their mismatched partnership looks dead on arrival, it's not long before the likable, dynamic duo are giving each other life support.

Speaking about landing the lead role, Kayo said: 'I'm super excited to show the world Bloods especially because I almost became a paramedic. Lucky for the NHS, I chose to play the character instead!

'I'm looking forward to hopefully bringing a bag of laughs to Sky with the lovely team at Roughcut who have some quality comedies under their belt!'

Horrocks added: 'I am very much looking forward to working on Bloods and being paired with the extremely funny Samson Kayo.

'I know nothing of the world of paramedics, but maybe I need to overcome my fear of blood before I start.'

ACTION-PACKED EPISODES

Whether you choose to binge them all in one go or gobble up a 30-minute episode in your break while working from home, Bloods is not the sort of show to watch while mucking around on your phone.

The action-packed comedy (which is beautifully shot) deserves your full attention, if only to ensure you don't miss its hilarious one-liners.

It jumps between scenes swiftly, with Maleek and Wendy attending an emergency call out to a 'crack den' one minute, to Jo and Lawrence (or Lozza, as she likes to call him - along with 'melt' and various other not-safe-for-work pet names) exchanging toe-curling 'banter' the next.

While most of the drama stems from the relationships between the characters, Bloods offers an insight into the hectic, intrepid life of a paramedic on the frontline, at a time when we appreciate their invaluable work more than ever.

LAUGH-A-MINUTE CONTEMPORARY DIALOGUE

Created by Kayo and rising star Nathan Bryon with a laugh-out-loud script penned by Bryon and Paul Doolan, Bloods has a decidedly contemporary feel that accurately reflects its south London setting.

There are jokes that appeal to audiences from all walks of life, from juvenile gags to topical quips and while Bloods is an apt title given the show's medical backdrop, it's also a nod to the word's use in British slang as a term for friendship (after electrocuting him in the opening scene, Maleek asks a traumatised Kevin: 'You alright blud?')

The most excruciating exchanges are between Lawrence (Julian Barratt) and Jo (Lucy Punch), with the latter constantly putting her foot in it while going out of her way to play it cool

Humour also comes from characters like Wendy and Jo doing their best to fit in with the cool crowd by embracing the kind of lingo we're used to hearing on our favourite reality shows.

Even Maleek battles to earn the respect of the younger generation. He tells a couple of teenagers giving him aggro on an estate they need to start 'showing respect', adding: 'I know you were out there clapping for us all them Thursdays.'

This is one of a smattering of Covid references in the show, and perhaps a subtle hint that we as a nation ought never to forget the incredible work and sacrifices made by our NHS workers throughout the pandemic.

HYSTERICAL DOUBLE ACTS

In addition to blossoming pals Maleek and Wendy, viewers are treated to three other amusing double acts, all of which are good at medicine, but not so great at life.

Viewers will instantly fall in love with Darrell and Darryl, a karaoke-loving twosome who live in each others' pockets and are so in sync they provide each other musical beats while performing CPR.

Viewers will instantly fall in love with Darrell and Darryl, a karaoke-loving twosome who live in each others' pockets and are so in sync they provide each other musical beats while performing CPR

The most excruciating exchanges take place between Lawrence and Jo, with the latter constantly putting her foot in it, making inappropriate comments while going out of her way to play it cool.

Meanwhile Kareshma grows increasingly infuriated by Gary, who has been entrusted with showing her the ropes and very much has his own way of doing things (which often takes twice as long as it needs to).

It's undoubtedly the show's quirky characters that make this ensemble comedy such an engaging, compelling watch - you'll devour every episode.

Bloods airs on Sky One and NOW TV from May 5.
Maria Menounos announced that her mother, Litsa, passed away due to complications from stage four brain cancer on Sunday.

The 42-year-old media correspondent made the news public through a post made to her Instagram account, where she was seen holding her mother while lying in her bed.

The television personality also wrote a brief message in her post that partially read, 'RIP mom. god loved her so much he took her on greek easter.'

In rememberance: Maria Menounos' mother Litsa passed away on Sunday due to complications from brain cancer; the two are pictured together in 2018

Menounos also made a point of adding 'Christ is risen mom' in her mother's native language.

The Extra host's mother battled her cancer for almost five years before she eventually succumbed to the disease.

The television host also had a brain tumor removed in 2017, although the growth was deemed to be benign.

In December of last year, Menounos revealed that her parents had both been hospitalized after contracting COVID-19.

Letting everyone know: The former Access Hollywood correspondent made the news public with a post made to her Instagram account

Fighting through it: The media correspondent's mother had battled the condition for five years

Their diagnosis came just after Litsa was informed that her condition was growing worse, although she and her husband, Costas, eventually recovered from the coronavirus.

In March, the actress appeared on Live With Kelly And Ryan and spoke at length about her mother's battle with brain cancer.

During the interview, the media correspondent enthusiastically remarked that her mother had 'beat COVID and she continues to be a miracle.'

Menounos also told Ryan Seacrest that, although she had reservations about leaving her parent to appear on the program, Litsa had encouraged her to do so.

Fond memories: Menounos and her mother Litsa were snapped in March of 2016

Supporting each other: Menounos' parents were previously diagnosed with COVID-19, although they later made full recoveries

'It has been an extremely tough time...it was hard to actually come here, but she wanted me to come here,' she said.

The Access Hollywood host went on to note that her mother was adamant that her daughter should stay strong and keep working despite her own health issues.

'I said, "Mom, is it okay if I go do Kelly and Ryan tomorrow, are you okay with that?" And she goes, "Yes." And she said it so fast, and she wasn't even speaking up until then,' she recalled.

Menounos concluded that she was 'grateful I got to come home where my mom told me I did a good job.'

Still supportive: During an appearance on Live With Kelly And Ryan, Menounos expressed that, although she found it difficult to go on the show, her mother encouraged her to do so despite her health issues

Strength: In the appearance, the TV host said, 'It has been an extremely tough time...it was hard to actually come here, but she wanted me to come here'

Support: The Access Hollywood host went on to note that her mother was adamant that her daughter should stay strong and keep working despite her own health issues

Details: Last fall, Menounos took to Instagram with an emotional post as she wished her mother a happy birthday

On her show Better Together in January, Menounos thanked her friend Ed Mylett for helping provide a private plane so that her parents could go back to their native Connecticut after the pandemic left them in Los Angeles for more than a year.

She told Mylett that he 'made her [mom's] dream come true' as 'she flew home so comfortably' after undergoing chemotherapy.

Last fall, Menounos took to Instagram with an emotional post as she wished her mother a happy birthday.

'In my darkest moments fear never let me see this day possible,' she said. 'Faith however would whisper in my ear. I am moved and inspired by your fearlessness and calm throughout this journey.'

'Mom I love you more than words can express. I will fight for you and with you everyday. I pray god gives us many more years so you can see your dream of grandchildren come true. Happy birthday, to many more.'
Rebecca Judd has broken her silence after allegedly donating items from Lorinska Merrington's fashion label to The Salvation Army and taking a stand against Premier Daniel Andrews over last year's Covid lockdown in Victoria.

The 38-year-old WAG divided Victorians last year when she criticised Mr Andrews after Melbourne's lockdown was extended.

More recently, the mother of four made headlines for reportedly donating items she'd been sent by Lorinska to a charity shop, after promoting them on Instagram.

'You live with it and move on': Outspoken WAG Rebecca Judd (pictured) has broken her silence on THAT regifting scandal and her criticism of Dan Andrews during Melbourne's lockdown

When asked about the negative headlines, Rebecca told Stellar magazine this week: 'I feel like, since having a public profile when I was 20 when I started dating my husband [Chris], I've had this noise. It's not going to go away, it's going to continue.

'So you live with it and move on. Things pop up all the time. It's not the first time, it's not going to be the last and you just roll with the punches and move on.'

She continued: 'I'm lucky that I've always had a level head with this sort of thing.'

'You live with it and move on': When asked about the negative headlines, Rebecca told Stellar magazine this week: 'I feel like, since having a public profile when I was 20 when I started dating my husband [Chris], I've had this noise. It's not going to go away, it's going to continue'

In March, Instagram account Celeb Spellcheck claimed part of a loungewear set from Royale By Lorinska appeared at a Melbourne charity shop just two days after Bec had posed in identical items on social media.

The footy WAG donned a blue Royale By Lorinska set on Instagram Stories alongside her daughter, Billie, seven, who wore a matching set.

A fan spotted the ensemble in a Salvation Army store in Hampton, the suburb near Brighton where Rebecca lives.

Caught out: Her interview comes after Instagram account Celeb Spellcheck claimed part of a loungewear set from Royale By Lorinska appeared at a Melbourne charity shop just two days after Bec had posed in identical items on social media

Last year, Rebecca also made headlines for expressing her frustration towards Premier Daniel Andrews in an Instagram post promoting a cardboard company.

Mr Andrews had announced at the time Melbourne would remain under lockdown due to an increase in coronavirus cases.

'@the_little_cardboard_co perfect for iso and upcoming school holidays as it seems Dictator Dan will be locking Victorians in our homes even longer,' she wrote.

The former Postcards host faced backlash for daring to express her opinion from her $7.3million mansion in Brighton, while other Melburnians were doing it far tougher.
Lindy Rama-Ellis (nee Klim) has called Indonesia home for the past 10 years, travelling to Melbourne sporadically to visit friends and family.

Now Lindy, the ex-wife of Australian swimmer Michael Klim, has revealed the heartbreaking reason she chooses to live in Bali.

Hosting a Q&A session with her Instagram followers on Sunday, Lindy explained why living on the island has a special significance for her and her family.

'I feel a greater connection here': Lindy Rama-Ellis (nee Klim) has revealed the heartbreaking reason she relocated her family permanently to Bali from Australia almost 10 years ago

Lindy is a Balinese princess, whose late father was the prince of Denpasar, Anak Agung Oka Rama.

While she is technically royalty, Lindy confessed she feels like 'a fraud' because she grew up in Hobart and wasn't taught much about her heritage.

By living in Bali now, she feels like she is reconnecting with her roots.

'I didn't get to know my dad before he died': While she is technically Balinese royalty, Lindy confessed she feels like 'a fraud' because she grew up in Hobart and wasn't taught much about her heritage. By living in Bali now, she feels like she is reconnecting with her roots

Heritage: Lindy is a Balinese princess, whose late father was the prince of Denpasar, Anak Agung Oka Rama

'My dad was Balinese and unfortunately I didn't get to know him before he died. I feel a greater connection to him living here. I also want my children and I to connect with the Balinese side of us,' she explained.

Lindy is based in Bali with her husband Adam Ellis and her four children, Stella, 15, Rocco, 13, Frankie, nine, and Goldie, three.

She shares Goldie with Adam and her older children with retired Olympian Michael, to whom she was married from 2006 to 2016.

Lindy wed Adam in August 2018, a year after they welcomed daughter Goldie.

Family life: Lindy is based in Bali with her husband Adam Ellis and her four children, Stella, 15, Rocco, 13, Frankie, nine, and Goldie, three

Lindy shares custody of Stella, Frankie and Rocco with Michael, who still lives in Australia.

The high-profile couple's marriage ended acrimoniously about five years ago, with Lindy describing the split as 'painful' and 'traumatic'.

The pair have since made made amends for the sake of their children.

She told fans in her Q&A on Sunday: 'Yes, mostly [on good terms with Michael]. Like any relationship, it's a work in progress.'
Oscar nominee Timothee Chalamet has never attended the Met Gala, but he was still reportedly hand-picked by Anna Wintour to co-host her annual Costume Institute benefit.

The 25-year-old native New Yorker will join poet Amanda Gorman and CFDA Chairman Tom Ford for the sold-out black-tie fundraiser themed 'In America: A Lexicon of Fashion' - according to Page Six.

Timothee showcases his eccentric sense of style by wearing designers like Prada, Louis Vuitton, S.R. Studio. LA. CA., and Haider Ackermann on red carpets.

Tastemaker: Oscar nominee Timothee Chalamet has never attended the Met Gala, but he was still reportedly hand-picked by Anna Wintour to co-host her annual Costume Institute benefit

Line-up! The 25-year-old native New Yorker will join poet Amanda Gorman and CFDA Chairman Tom Ford for the sold-out black-tie fundraiser themed 'In America: A Lexicon of Fashion'

'I hear about celebrities who have stylists, and that blows my mind,' Chalamet told Time Out in 2018.

'It's certainly not why I act, but I can wear cool clothes from some of the nicest designers in the world. So why am I going to pay someone to figure out what I should be wearing? That's the fun part.'

'In America: A Lexicon of Fashion' opens September 18 while part two 'In America: An Anthology of Fashion' won't open until May 5 of next year.

These days, the Met Gala - originally made famous by the late, great Diana Vreeland - is more known for its glam squad-obsessed celebrities and resulting bathroom selfies than the actual museum exhibits.

Styles himself: Timothee showcases his eccentric sense of style by wearing designers like Prada, Louis Vuitton, S.R. Studio. LA. CA., and Haider Ackermann on red carpets

'In America: A Lexicon of Fashion' opens September 18 while part two 'In America: An Anthology of Fashion' won't open until May 5 of next year (Lady Gaga pictured in 2019)

'Annual bathroom selfie': These days, the Met Gala - originally made famous by the late, great Diana Vreeland - is more known for its glam squad-obsessed celebrities and resulting bathroom selfies than the actual museum exhibits (pictured in 2017)

Past performers have included Rihanna, Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, Bruno Mars, The Weeknd, Madonna, and Cher.

Between July 6-17, Timothee will likely attend the Cannes Film Festival premiere of Wes Anderson's The French Dispatch, in which he plays student revolutionary Zeffirelli.

The Cadillac commercial star will also portray Paul Atreides in Denis Villeneuve's $165M sci-fi epic Dune, which hits US/UK theaters and HBO Max on October 1.
Anna Heinrich suffered a relatable 'mum fail' over the weekend when she struggled to tie her five-month-old daughter Elle's locks up into a ponytail.

The former Bachelor star shared a video of baby Elle's cute top knot hairstyle as they prepared to head out on Sunday.

Anna explained she was constantly being asked by her followers to put Elle's hair up, but she struggled with the task.

Mum fail! Anna Heinrich showed off her daughter Elle's wild hairstyle on Sunday after she struggled to tie her blonde locks in a ponytail

'A lot of people wanted me to do a little tie in her hair and I did it today, but it is probably not the right colour and probably not the right hair tie... Massive fail by me,' she said with a laugh.

Anna and her daughter were heading out spend time with one of her girlfriends and her son in Manly.

As always, blonde beauty Anna looked chic in a pair of grey wool shorts teamed with a low-cut beige knit tank top.

Cute: Anna shared a mirror selfie she took with her daughter before they headed to a friend's house

Meanwhile, Elle was cute as a button in a pink and white plaid dress with a white collar.

Last month, Anna's husband Tim Robards shared a heartwarming video of himself attempting to teach the little tot how to walk while cuddling her on the floor of their family home in Sydney.

'Who loves to stand? Who loves to stand? Are you gonna walk?' Tim, 38, was heard saying to the toddler as she wriggled around in his arms.

So cute! Last month, Anna's husband Tim Robards shared a heartwarming video of himself attempting to teach the little tot how to walk while cuddling her on the floor of their family home in Sydney

The cute-as-a-button little girl was wearing a white T-shirt for the occasion and little woolen grey trousers.

The moving attempt comes after Tim's wife Anna flaunted her incredible post-baby body in a mirror selfie shared to Instagram just last month.

The 34-year-old looked stunning in a pair of skin-tight jeans, which showed off her slender form.

She added a fitted white shirt with a corseted bodice and puffy sleeves to the chic ensemble.

The former reality star captioned the photograph: 'Quick bathroom selfie because even the bathrooms are incredible #CrownSydney'.

Cute! 'Who loves to stand? Who loves to stand? Are you gonna walk?' Tim, 38, was heard saying to the toddler as she wriggled around in his arms

Stunner! Earlier this month, Anna Heinrich showed off her incredible post-baby body in a mirror selfie shared to Instagram

Anna and former Neighbours actor Tim welcomed their baby girl in November.

Anna recently admitted that her emotions had been a 'roller-coaster' in the weeks since giving birth.

She told Who magazine she once 'cried for two hours straight' a week after taking her baby home from the hospital.

Baby love! Anna and former Neighbours actor Tim welcomed their baby girl less than four months ago

Anna said Tim had asked her if something was wrong and she told him: 'I'm not happy, I'm not sad. I just need to get it all out.'

'Your emotions are all up and down, it's like a roller-coaster. But from that moment, I just let go of everything I knew and tried to live more in the present,' Anna explained.

Elsewhere in the interview, the blonde confessed there are some days when she just wants to sit in the shower because she's so sleepy and emotional.
Alana Lister was known for her raunchy antics with 'husband' Jason Engler on the most recent season of Married At First Sight.

And the sexy schoolteacher gave her Instagram followers an eyeful over the weekend as she celebrated her 31st birthday on the Gold Coast.

Alana slipped her curves into a figure-hugging blue dress which featured a plunging neckline and daring cut-outs.

Hello, boys! Married At First Sight's sexy schoolteacher Alana Lister gave her Instagram followers an eyeful over the weekend as she celebrated her 31st birthday on the Gold Coast

Alana seemed quite pleased with her outfit choice as she did a little wiggle in front of the mirror.

The stunning frock highlighted her surgically enhanced cleavage and trim pins.

She paired the outfit with nude heels, opted for a glossy makeup palette, and wore her caramel tresses in loose waves.

Beauty: Alana opted for a glossy makeup palette, and wore her caramel tresses in loose waves

It comes after Alana answered one of the most commonly asked questions about her life: what exactly is her ethnicity?

She revealed during an Instagram Q&A on Thursday that she is Sino-Mauritian, or a Mauritian of Chinese descent.

Alana explained her father is Chinese and her mother is South African, and that she was born in Mauritius before moving to Australia as a child.

Statuesque: Alana seemed quite pleased with her outfit choice as she did a little wiggle in front of the mirror

Mauritius is an island nation about 2,000km east of Africa in the Indian Ocean.

'This one gets asked all the time. My mum is South African and my dad is Chinese but my family is from Mauritius,' Alana told fans.

'So we grew up in Mauritius. That's where my mum and dad met because South Africa is really close to Mauritius.

Background: Alana revealed during an Instagram Q&A on Thursday that she is Sino-Mauritian, or a Mauritian of Chinese descent

'My older sister, she started primary school there, and then we all moved over to Australia. So we are Sino-Mauritian.'

Alana was born Sinead Chong and went by this name throughout primary and high school, Daily Mail Australia revealed in February.

She changed her name to Alana Lister after graduating in 2009, and began to overhaul her appearance with cosmetic enhancements around this time.

Family: Alana (seen on her second birthday) explained her father is Chinese and her mother is South African, and that she was born in Mauritius before moving to Australia as a child

Alana's name change was supposedly inspired by Brisbane street artist Anthony Lister, whose work she admired.

Some friends noticed her name could be shortened to 'A. Lister' and joked that she may have been planning to become famous.

She was paired with 35-year-old construction estimator Jason Engler on this year's season of Married At First Sight but have now split.
Rebel Wilson has hinted she's 'struggling with fertility' in a cryptic Instagram post shared on Sunday night.

The actress, 41, who split from her boyfriend Jacob Busch after a year of dating in February, shared an image of herself standing by the ocean, along with a caption that suggested she had received 'bad news'.

In the post, she penned: 'I got some bad news today and didn't have anyone to share it with... but I guess I gotta tell someone. To all the women out there struggling with fertility, I feel ya...

'The universe works in mysterious ways and sometimes it all doesn't make sense... but I hope there's light about to shine through all the dark clouds.'

'Bad news': Rebel Wilson has hinted she's 'struggling with fertility' in a cryptic Instagram post shared on Sunday night

Last year, Rebel revealed she wanted to improve her health because she had decided to freeze her eggs.

She explained: 'I was thinking about fertility and having good quality eggs in the bank, so I was like, 'OK, I'm going to do this. I'm going to get healthy.''

As part of her 'year of health', the Pain & Gain star shed a whopping 30kg in 2020.

Then in early February, Rebel split from her boyfriend Jacob Busch, after the couple had dated for a little more than a year.

Caption: 'I got some bad news today and didn't have anyone to share it with... but I guess I gotta tell someone,' wrote the Pitch Perfect star

The comedian and the businessman made their first red carpet appearance together at Prince Albert's Planetary Health Gala in Monaco in September 2020.

Prior to her relationship with Jacob, Rebel briefly dated stuntman Aden Stay in 2017.

Meanwhile, Rebel previously insisted she has been treated differently since shedding 66 pounds.

She said: 'I think what's been really interesting is how other people treat you. Sometimes being bigger, people didn't necessarily look twice at you...

Dating history: In early February, Rebel split from her boyfriend Jacob Busch (right) , after the couple had dated for a little more than a year

'Now that I'm in good shape, people offer to carry my groceries to the car and hold doors open for you. I'm like, is this what other people experienced all the time? ...

'I also find it interesting that people pay so much attention to a weight-loss transformation, when there's so much going on in the world.'

The 'Bridesmaids' star recently admitted she feels 'so sad' that she spent 20 years overweight as she admitted she piled on the pounds over the years because she didn't love herself 'in the right way'.

Changing look: Meanwhile, Rebel previously insisted she has been treated differently since shedding 66 pounds (pictured in 2019)

She said: 'I wasn't loving myself in the way that I should from 20 to 40  that's 20 years. I feel so sad that I did that to myself, just not loving yourself in the right way ...

'I'd eat with any emotion. If I was stressed or had exams coming up. But then I'd also eat if I was really happy, like I went out on an awesome night and had a great time.

'Other people would just go home and go to bed but I'll be like, 'What am I going to do? I'll just eat these chips and then go to bed.''

Prior to her latest post, Rebel has been spending time in the UK filming her new movie.

Set life: The sad news follows an upbeat post earlier on Sunday in which Rebel flaunted her curves in a wetsuit while posing for photos on the set of her new film in the UK

Rebel had been shooting scenes with her co-star Charlotte Gainsbourg for upcoming drama The Almond and the Seahorse in Merseyside, England.

According to Deadline, The Almond and The Sea Horse is a feature adaptation of Kaite O'Reilly's stage play of the same name.

The project - directed by Tom Stern and Celyn Jones - follows the journeys of an architect and an archaeologist as they attempt to save their relationships after suffering brain injuries.

While Rebel's role is yet to be revealed, she joins Celyn, Danish performer Trine Dyrholm and The Kumars at No. 42 icon Meera Syal in the star-studded indie film.
He was finally unmasked as the elusive criminal H in Sunday's finale.

But it seemed that the so-called Fourth Man may have escaped from custody, as Line Of Duty star Nigel Boyle was pictured heading to his local shop on Saturday.

The actor, who played DSI Ian Buckells in the police drama, certainly had a spring in his step after fans were left underwhelmed by the revelation that he was the man at the heart of the organised crime operation.

You look happy! Line Of Duty star Nigel Boyle was surprisingly upbeat as he grabbed a pastry from his local shop on Saturday, as viewers learned he was the elusive criminal H

Nigel opted for a casual grey jumper emblazoned with a yellow lightning symbol as he grabbed a box of croissants during his outing.

The actor, who has played Buckells throughout the show's first, fourth and sixth series, had a smile on his face as his on-screen alter-ego was finally unmasked after years of questions and theories.

Sunday's finale left fans 'fuming' as it and the mysterious antagonist 'H' was finally unmasked.

Surprise star: The actor played DCI Ian Buckells in the BBC police drama, who was revealed to be the mysterious Fourth Man in Sunday's series six finale

Stocking up? Nigel opted for a casual grey jumper emblazoned with a yellow lightning symbol as he grabbed a box of croissants during his outing

Seasoned fans took to social media in their droves to share their frustrations as officers from the police anti-corruption unit AC-12 discovered the identity of the elusive 'fourth man', who had been colluding with the organised crime group (OCG), was none other than DSU Ian Buckells.

The detective was first introduced to viewers in series one when he was appointed as SIO in the case of murdered businesswoman Jackie Laverty by then chief superintendent Derek Hilton.

However, the episode's end failed to offer any resolution on whether the fan-favourite team of DI Steve Arnott, DI Kate Fleming and Superintendent Ted Hastings would return, ending on the revelation that the team has 'never been weaker.'

Really? Seasoned fans took to social media in their droves to share their frustrations as officers from the police anti-corruption unit AC-12 discovered the identity of the elusive 'fourth man'

Best-kept secret: The mystery surrounding the identity of 'H' has been up for speculation since the show was first released in 2012

Line Of Duty finale: How the viewing figures compare 2021 Line Of Duty finale, May 2 (BBC One) 12.8 million Prince Philip's funeral, April 17 (ITV & BBC One) 13.6 million Harry and Meghan with Oprah Winfrey, March 8 (ITV) 11.4 million 2020 Boris Johnson lockdown announcement, March 23 (BBC One) 14.6 million Queen's address to the nation, April 5 (BBC One) 14 million Boris Johnson's second address to the nation, May 10 (BBC One) 18.8 million I'm A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here!, December 4 (ITV) 12.1 million 2019 Gavin And Stacey Christmas special (BBC One) 17.1 million viewers 2012 Closing ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games (BBC One) 24.5 million 2010 The X Factor (ITV) 17.7 million 1995 Princess Diana interview with Martin Bashir (BBC One) 23 million 1966 The 1966 World Cup final (BBC and ITV joint broadcast) 32.3 million viewers Advertisement

The mystery surrounding the identity of 'H' has been up for speculation since the show was first released in 2012 and detectives at the anti-corruption unit discovered there were four officers working within the force who had links to the underground criminal network.

During Sunday's finale episode , superintendent Ted Hastings, played by actor Adrian Dunbar, was seen asking his colleague Chloe to run checks on the constant misspelling of the word 'definately' which had become synonymous with the 'fourth man' in previous episodes.

A number of checks traced the word back to Buckells who used the misspelling when messaging former undercover officer John Corbett, played by Stephen Graham, in series five.

When confronted with the revelation Hastings was left astounded, asking his colleague: 'Are you sure Chloe?'

After being confronted by Hastings and his team Buckells declared: 'I'm only the one whose made total mugs out of you lot!'.

He also revealed that would have to offer him immunity or Witness Protection if they wanted him to co-operate.

Pointing out that H did not officially exist as the investigation into corruption had been quashed, he insisted Tommy Hunter, the organised crime kingpin who was a sinister character during the drama's early series, was the leader of the OCG.

Although several viewers were shocked that Buckells turned out to be the Fourth Man, he previously hinted at being H way back in 2017.

Speaking to Digital Spy during series four, Nigel said: 'There's definitely more to Buckells than meets the eye!

'He's very competent, very good at what he does, he's the go-to guy, but he's certainly not a popular guy  he's petulant, and a bit of a jobsworth I think.

'I don't think people give him enough credit, just because of his personality!'

While the show has proved to be a huge hit in the ratings department, it has not yet been confirmed whether there will be a seventh season - despite demands from viewers for more.
She is a successful Balinese-Australian beauty entrepreneur, model and influencer.

But Lindy Klim has been struggling with a learning difficulty since she was a child.

The Balinese princess, 44, candidly discussed her ongoing struggle with dyslexia with fans during an Instagram Q&A session on Sunday.

'I get really sh***y with myself': Lindy Klim, 44, reveals her ongoing struggle with a learning disorder and how it has affected her confidence as a businesswoman in the past

Lindy and her ex-husband Michael Klim started Milk & Co in 2010, and 10 years later in 2020 secretly launched her own beauty company Fig Femme.

Fig Femme is a female intimate wellness brand that initially launched with one product: a vulva mask.

'It's a struggle every day. I get really sh***y with myself and find it hard to express myself, especially in business,' Lindy said of her struggle with dyslexia.

She added: 'Emails are my most hated thing in life!'

'I try and focus on what I am good at and find people to help me with the things I can't do.'

'I find it hard to express myself, especially in business': The Balinese princess has been struggling with dyslexia since she was a child

Business: Fig Femme is a female intimate wellness brand that initially launched with one product: a vulva mask

In an interview with 9Honey in 2018, Lindy spoke about her dyslexia as a child.

'I grew up in Tasmania and I was pretty much the only Asian person in my school, so I got teased dramatically and I had massive learning difficulties - I'm dyslexic and I found that really really hard.'

Meanwhile in Sunday's Q&A Lindy said that the Balinese international school attended by her children was far more diverse in cultures and lifestyles.

She also revealed that the school fees are upwards of $60,000 per year.

'I try and focus on what I am good at and find people to help me with the things I can't do': Lindy said she hates emailing the most, but isn't afraid of asking for help

Lindy is based in Bali with her husband Adam Ellis and her four children, Stella, 15, Rocco, 13, Frankie, nine, and Goldie, three.

She shares Goldie with British property developer Adam and her older children with ex-husband, retired Olympic swimmer Michael Klim.

Lindy met Adam shortly after her split from ex-husband Michael in February 2016.

The pair went on to marry in August 2018, a year after they welcomed their first daughter together, Goldie, in 2017.
Kelly Carlson opened up about her current work making knives and sheaths for police and military in a chat with Fox News's Tammy Bruce Friday.

The Nip/Tuck actress, 45, explained how she relocated to the San Diego area for business purposes years back, as she and her husband, Navy Chief Dan Stanchfield, have a manufacturing business.

'I did leave Los Angeles in 2015 because my husband Dan - Tracker Dan - is based on Coronado and we needed to be closer and my business motto in life is: "Sounds great, lets go do it!''' said Carlson, who described herself as a 'military wife.'

The latest: Kelly Carlson, 45, opened up about her current work making knives and sheaths for police in a chat with Fox News's Tammy Bruce Friday. She was snapped in LA in 2015

The Minneapolis-born actress, who played Kimber Henry on the FX show, opened about her current work manufacturing.

'We make knives and I make the sheaths,' she said. 'And Ive never made anything with my hands before. And when I can hand a knife and a sheath off to law enforcement or someone in the military - its really cool. Ive never done anything quite that profound before. So I love it.'

She described the experience as 'completely different from anything in my life' and 'completely a different world than Im used to.'

Carlson said of her spouse, who was once her bodyguard, 'Dan is the star of the family and I love it,' adding that he's planning his retirement from service in the near future.

The Minneapolis-born actress, who played Kimber Henry on the FX show, took to Instagram last May to open up about her ongoings

The actress said she's 'really excited about being a military wife' as her husband Dan Stanchfield is a Navy chief

'Then well be doing knives full time probably, hopefully,' she said. 'I've never done anything so profound before.'

Asked if she would be interested in a show business comeback, Carlson said, 'It would have to be a really big deal to go back up there.'

She opened up about her decision to leave Hollywood and how it's been a fulfilling move for her.

'I'm someone who follows what I want to do in my gut and nothing can stop me and so it's an easy choice for me to leave a lot of money or fame - to go do something that my heart really wants to do,' Carlson said. 'And I think you have to be that kind of person because fame and money is really powerful and - don't get me wrong I love it too - but it's not everything for me and I'm fulfilling other things in my life that I never learned to do before.

Carlson said of her spouse, who was once her bodyguard, 'Dan is the star of the family and I love it,' adding that he's planning his retirement from service in the near future

'I'm kind of a spirit that you can't stop. So If I want to go be a military wife or go make knives, that's what's gonna happen.'

Carlson later took to Instagram to thank Bruce for the platform and her program.

'Big Big thank you to @heytammybruce for having me on @foxnews Tammy is always a woman I listen to regarding world issues, policies, etc,' she said. 'She cuts to the chase, easily explains complicated issues and does it in a way we understand.

'And I appreciate that. Not to mention unwavering passion for our country. She is about the principal and will hold anyones feet to the fire. Period. Love finally speaking with a woman Ive listened to for a long while now. What a great day! Thank you Tammy.'
She's the granddaughter of the late, great Wildlife Warrior Steve Irwin.

And one-month-old Grace Warrior looked the part on Sunday, donning the zookeeper-turned-TV star's iconic Australia Zoo khakis during a doze.

The newborn baby girl matched her dad Chandler Powell's attire for the adorable post.

Doting dad: Grace Warrior looked the part on Sunday, donning the zookeeper-turned-TV star's iconic Australia Zoo khakis during a doze in dad Chandler Powell's arms

Chandler captioned the photo of the infant he shares with Steve's daughter Bindi Irwin, 'Dad and daughter khakis'.

The post comes after a biopic about the late conservationist Steve 'The Crocodile Hunter' Irwin was rumoured to be in the works.

According to Woman's Day, the as-yet-untitled project is 'gaining momentum' in Hollywood with major studios and A-list actors said to be interested.

Movie executives are apparently drawn to the biopic because of Steve's popularity in America, where he was known for his long-running Animal Planet TV series and late-night chat show appearances in the late '90s and early '00s.

Their girl: Chandler captioned the photo of the infant he shares with Steve's daughter Bindi Irwin [pictured], 'Dad and daughter khakis'

Hollywood treatment: A biopic about the late conservationist Steve 'The Crocodile Hunter' Irwin is rumoured to be in the works. Pictured here on June 26, 2002, in San Francisco

Australia is also one of the few destinations where films can be shot safely during the Covid-19 pandemic, making a biopic of a famous Australian particularly appealing.

Steve's widow, Terri, and daughter, Bindi, are said to be involved in discussions about the film, which will follow Steve's life as a zookeeper's son growing up in Queensland the 1970s to achieving global fame as the larger-than-life Crocodile Hunter.

'There's no way this project can go ahead without Terri and Bindi involved every step of the way,' a source told Woman's Day.

Work in progress: The as-yet-untitled project is 'gaining momentum' in Hollywood with major studios and A-list actors said to be interested, reports Woman's Day. Steve's widow, Terri (left), and daughter, Bindi (right), are said to be involved in discussions about the film

'Steve's international appeal, particularly to Americans, can't be ignored and this isn't the first time a project like this has been presented to [the Irwin family].'

Several names have been mentioned in connection with the film, with Marvel actor Chris Hemsworth reportedly being considered for the role of Steve.

However, Terri has allegedly said she would prefer a lesser-known Australian actor like Lincoln Lewis to portray her late husband.

Appeal: Movie executives are apparently drawn to the biopic because of Steve's popularity in America, where he was known for his long-running Animal Planet TV series and late-night chat show appearances in the late '90s and early '00s. Pictured with actor Bruce Willis in 2002

Famous face: Several names have been mentioned in connection with the film, with Marvel actor Chris Hemsworth (pictured) reportedly being considered for the role of Steve

Another candidate: However, Terri has allegedly said she would prefer a lesser-known Australian actor like Lincoln Lewis (pictured) to portray her late husband

Daily Mail Australia has contacted Australia Zoo and Animal Planet for comment.

Steve, who died in September 2006 at the age of 44 after being pierced in the chest by a stingray barb while filming a wildlife documentary in Queensland, was involved in several Hollywood films during his lifetime.

He had a cameo in Dr. Dolittle 2 (2001), provided his voice for Happy Feet (2006), and starred alongside his wife in 2002's The Crocodile Hunter: Collision Course.

Showbiz: Steve, who died in September 2006 at the age of 44 while filming a wildlife documentary in Queensland, was involved in several Hollywood films during his lifetime. Pictured at the premiere of The Crocodile Hunter: Collision Course in Hollywood in 2002

The Irwin family has continued to have a presence in the media after Steve's death, filming various series for Animal Planet, including reality show Crikey! It's the Irwins.

They also still operate Australia Zoo on Queensland's Sunshine Coast.

Bindi, 22, won the American version of Dancing with the Stars in 2015, leading to a renewed interest in her family stateside.
Radio host Kyle Sandilands has confirmed Hollywood star Zac Efron had been dating Vanessa Valladares for much longer than reported.

Speculation recently surfaced that the former couple knew each other three years before their 'official' first meeting at Byron Bay's General Store cafe last June.

And on Monday, Kyle, 49 - who is good friends with Zac - revealed on live radio that it wasn't just a rumour.

Speculation: Radio host Kyle Sandilands (pictured) confirmed on Monday that Zac Efron and Vanessa Valladares had been secretly dating much longer than reported - amid rumours the pair knew each other for three years

The radio host confirmed on The Kyle and Jackie O show: 'They've been together for a lot longer than people realise.'

'I don't know where they met, but it wasn't recent. It's been going for a little while, but I don't know exactly how long' he added.

It comes after a resurfaced Instagram comment discovered by Pedestrian threw Zac and Vanessa's entire relationship timeline into question.

The pair never spoke about their relationship to the press or on social media, leading to some ambiguity in regard to when exactly they started dating.

'I don't know where they met but it wasn't recent. It's been going for a little while, but I don't know exactly how long' Kyle said on air on Monday. Pictured Zac Efron

But a comment on one of Vanessa's Instagram posts from 29 December 2017, suggests they may have been an item for much longer than initially thought.

Vanessa's post showed her standing at the edge of a quarry in Bexhill, a small village in New South Wales about 35km (22 miles) from Byron Bay - the town where she supposedly met Zac for the first time last year.

However, a comment left on the post 163 weeks ago - in March 2018 - reads: 'Take care. God bless you and Zac. xx.'

Did Zac take this? It comes after a comment on one of Vanessa's Instagram posts from 2017 suggests they may have been an item for much longer than initially thought. The photo showed her standing at the edge of a quarry in Bexhill, a small village in New South Wales about 35km (22 miles) from Byron Bay - the town where she supposedly met Zac for the first time last year

Hmm! 'Take care. God bless you and Zac,' an Instagram user commented 163 weeks ago, leading to speculation Vanessa and Zac were secretly dating in March 2018. All other comments on the post have been limited, which suggests the woman who left this comment knows Vanessa in some way

All other comments on the post have been limited, which suggests the woman who left this comment knows Vanessa in some way.

Interestingly, Zac was in Australia in December 2017, attending the red carpet premiere of The Greatest Showman at The Star in Sydney.

On December 26, just days before Vanessa uploaded her photo from Bexhill, Zac appeared to enjoy a hike at a mystery location - perhaps in rural New South Wales.

While this could suggest the pair were secretly dating at the time, there is another explanation for the 'god bless you and Zac' comment.

Vanessa may have been dating another man named Zac, as it's not exactly an uncommon name.

He was in town! Interestingly, Zac was in Australia in December 2017, attending the red carpet premiere of The Greatest Showman at The Star in Sydney. Pictured on December 20, 2017

According to various reports, Zac was introduced to Vanessa by her boss at Byron Bay's General Store cafe in June last year, and the pair hit it off straight away.

Two months later, in August, Daily Mail Australia revealed Zac had cancelled his scheduled return flight to Los Angeles because he 'didn't really want to go back'.

Within weeks, the genetically blessed couple had moved in together in Byron Bay.

Did he extend his stay? On December 26, just days before Vanessa uploaded her photo from Bexhill, Zac appeared to enjoy a hike at a mystery location - perhaps in rural New South Wales

Zac confirmed their relationship in September when they were spotted holding hands in public.

Vanessa would accompany her famous boyfriend as he travelled around Australia for various work projects from late 2020 to early 2021.

But it was confirmed in April they had called it quits, with Kyle announcing on his KIIS FM radio show: 'I can confirm [the break-up], after speaking with him yesterday.'

Rumors: According to various reports, Zac was introduced to Vanessa (pictured) by her boss at Byron Bay's General Store cafe in June last year, and the pair hit it off straight away
Jared Leto was in a self-promotional mood on Saturday when he stepped out in a sweatshirt for his rock band 30 Seconds to Mars.

The 49-year-old Academy Award winner was seen out and about in New York City while accompanied by a female friend.

The actor was back in the Big Apple after venturing to Rome earlier this month to film Ridley Scott's upcoming crime drama House Of Gucci.

Repping the band: Jared Leto, 49, was spotted out in New York City on Saturday as he wore a sweatshirt from his band 30 Seconds to Mars while out with a female friend

Jared's gray hoodie specifically advertised his 30 Seconds to Mars festival Mars Island, which was held in Croatia for superfans of the group.

The actor and rocker joked that his followers were a cult after an earlier edition of the festival, but his diehard fans will have to wait until this year to attend again, as the 2020 edition was pushed back a year due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

He paired the hoodie with cerulean Adidas sweatpants and teal slides from the same brand.

Jared also covered up his long dark hair with a purple cable knit ski cap.

Nothing to see here: Jared stayed anonymous in blue Adidas sweatpants and slides, plus a purple cable knit ski cap

His friend wore a black sweatshirt with slim black pants covered in matte floral designs.

She matched black Nike trainers with the low-key outfit and wore a hip-bag slung across her torso.

Both she and her companion wore pale pink surgical masks to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Last week, Jared marked his return to New York with an image of himself in a city square while wearing a 30 Second to Mars T-shirt.

Self-promotion: Last week, Jared marked his return to New York with an image of himself in a city square while wearing a 30 Second to Mars T-shirt

He showed off a lighter side of himself on Thursday with an Instagram video of himself showing off his dance moves.

'Happy #internationaldanceday, my favorite holiday,' he wrote in the caption, but in the video he just shuffled along and barely pumped his arms to a reggaeton beat in the background.

The middle-aged actor proved the low energy moves were just a joke when he mimed pulling a muscle.

Earlier this month, Jared appeared virtually for the Screen Actors Guild Awards, where he showed that he had shaved off his beard in favor of a dashing mustache, while retaining his long dark hair.

New look: Earlier this month, Jared appeared virtually for the Screen Actors Guild Awards, where he showed that he had shaved off his beard in favor of a dashing mustache

The change in facial hair was so the American Psycho actor could play Paolo Gucci in Ridley Scott's upcoming crime drama House Of Gucci, which has been filming in Italy in recent weeks.

Paolo, the son of Aldo Gucci, was eventually fired from the Gucci fashion empire.

Jared was seen on set after undergoing extensive prosthetic and makeup work to make him unrecognizable, including a bald cap with a messy fringe of hair.

The film, which stars Lady Gaga and Adam Driver, concerns the marriage and murder of Maurizio Gucci by his ex-wife Patrizia Reggiani.

Al Pacino, Jeremy Irons, Salma Hayek and Jack Huston are also among the upcoming movie's stacked cast.
London Goheen has shown off her flat tummy in a new Instagram Story.

The 23-year-old wife of influencer Reece Hawkins, who gave birth to their son Stone Hawkins back in March, pulled down her leggings to flaunt her taut abs in the clip.

The Texan model previously proved she's wasting no time getting back to her pre-pregnancy shape in an April 22 beach post.

Abs-olutely incredible! Reece Hawkins' wife London Goheen showed off her incredibly toned figure in an Instagram story on Monday, just two months after giving birth to the couple's son Stone

She showcased her midriff in a black bralette and matching skirt when she hit the sand.

London looked sensational, with the beauty highlighting her toned figure in the skimpy ensemble.

She gave the otherwise relaxed beach look a bit of polish with a number of gold necklaces and bracelets.

The raven haired beauty wore her signature tresses down and opted to wear minimal makeup for the outing.

Pinging back into shape: The Texan model previously proved she's wasting no time getting back to her pre-pregnancy shape in an April 22 beach post, left. She pictured right in December

Back to the grind! London revealed she was back in the gym last month. She posed in a crop top and a pair of tiny Nike bike shorts

London revealed she was back in the gym last month.

She posed in a crop top and a pair of tiny Nike bike shorts.

She assured her followers that she was 'just doing light cardio on the treadmill' when she had 'time and energy'.

London gave birth to Stone on March 7 after a grueling 34-hour labour.

'We love you baby Stone and being your mama forever is going to be so much fun, I PROMISE,' she wrote in an Instagram caption.

Her partner Reece is already father to two children with his influencer ex-fiance Tammy Hembrow.

The former couple share son Wolf, five, and daughter Saskia, four.

Baby joy: London gave birth to Stone on March 7 after a grueling 34-hour labour

Family: She shares baby Stone with her influencer husband Reece Hawkins (left)




Channel Nine first announced it would be rebooting Beauty And The Geek Australia during its media upfronts in September.

And it would appear the series is close to wrapping its return season.

On Wednesday night, host Sophie Monk promoted the show at a Sydney venue with reality TV stars in the audience, asking them to grade the Geek's transformations.

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Beauty and The Geek SNEAK PEEK: Sophie Monk (pictured) shared some incredible nerd-to-hunk transformations from Nine's upcoming reboot at a Sydney venue on Wednesday

Sophie, 41, proudly introduced the audience to the latest round of the show's signature makeovers.

'We're going to show before and afters now, are you ready?' she asked, holding a clipboard in her hand.

The night was a 'media and marketing trivia and transformation challenge,' providing attendees with a sneak peak of the new season's cast.

'We are judging transformations': Love Island couple Josh Moss and Amelia Plummer were in the reality-star-studded crowd

Love Island couple Josh Moss and Amelia Plummer were in the crowd, sharing footage from the evening to social media.

Josh said to his fans: 'So apparently tonight, me and Amelia are judging transformations for a Beauty and The Geek contest.'

'They've got some of the best in the business to judge... and we don't really know what we're doing,' he joked.

Amelia, who was sitting next to Married At First Sight bride Elizabeth Sobinoff, also shared footage from the event.

Nine stars: Amelia, who was sitting next to Married At First Sight bride Elizabeth Sobinoff (right) also shared footage from the event

Sophie first encouraged fans to lodge their applications in an Instagram video in November.

'I'm so excited to be hosting Beauty And The Geek, one of my favourite shows,' the former Bachelorette said.

According to Endemol Shine, producers were hunting for 'big-hearted beauties and geeky guys' to pair up and compete for a cash prize.

Filming was set to last for up to seven weeks between mid January and early March 2021.

Beauty and the Geek's return comes six years after the dating series was axed by Channel Seven in 2014.
Instagram removed the like counter for Australian users in 2019, saying the move was designed to 'lessen the pressure' when posting photos.

And almost two years on, Married At First Sight star Michael Brunelli has shared a 'hack' for Aussies who want the feature to return.

The personal trainer, 30, shared a step-by-step guide to how you can bring back the counter that reveals exactly how many likes a post has received.

It's back! Married At First Sight star Michael Brunelli has shared a 'hack' for Aussies who want the like counter to return, after it was removed from the social media app almost two years ago

Michael and his girlfriend Martha Kalifatidis are best known for being one of the few lasting couples from Channel Nine's social experiment.

He explained that users can now click the three dots next to their uploads to access a settings menu where they can toggle the like and view counters on and off.

'To turn seeing likes on/off, go to setting > privacy > posts [and slide the button],' he wrote on Instagram Stories.

Tutorial: Michael (pictured with girlfriend Martha Kalifatidis) shared a step-by-step guide to how you can bring back the counter that reveals exactly how many likes a post has received

Helpful: He explained that users can now click the three dots next to their uploads to access a settings menu where they can toggle the like and view counters on and off

'For those in my DMs asking how I got the feature, I just updated my app,' he said, adding that he was made aware of the update by a pop-up notification.

After being messaged by several followers saying the function was not available or accessible to all users yet, Michael apologised.

'My bad everyone... even Martha doesn't have it,' he said.

'My bad everyone... even Martha doesn't have it': Michael soon realised it was a beta feature only offered to select Instagram users before the official rollout

In the beta feature, which began rolling out to select users on April 14, Instagram is allowing Aussies to decide for themselves if they'd like to have the likes visible on their posts.

Michael joked afterwards that he'd disclosed a industry secret and had angered Mark Zuckerberg, the CEO of Facebook, which owns Instagram.

'Realising Ive given away an Insta secret and gone down on Mark Zuckerberg's top friends list,' he captioned a video of himself in a state of mock distress.
A Triple J listener has revealed the shameless scam he used to lodge fraudulent workers' compensation claims, sparking a surprising response from the show's hosts.

The listener, known only as 'Todd', boldly bragged about the time he pretended to be a physiotherapist to help an 'injured' mate lodge a fraudulent workers' compensation claim.

Triple J Drive hosts Lewis Hobba and Michael Hing were in stitches after hearing about the creative rort, but have come under fire from some listeners.

During the 'Take it to the next level' segment, Todd rang in to explain how he helped a 'bit jack of work' friend claim workers' compensation by pretending to be a physiotherapist back in 1997.

'[My friend] came home and said: "I need you to be a physio. I just need you to have a fake physio studio that I can go to, to fix my fake injury",' Todd recalled, The Australian's Media Diary reported.

'We made a fake physio studio and we sent the insurance company bills for physio work to fix his fake injury and they paid us.'

Response: Triple J Drive hosts Lewis Hobba and Michael Hing found the insurance fraud stories during a radio segment very amusing - but some were less impressed

Todd continued: 'Eventually we had to stop as we didn't know how much physio was actually required to fix the fake injury that he had faked at work.'

The radio hosts laughed as Todd explained it was easy to create a fake address because the scam occurred before Google was invented.

Todd then admitted his mate was 'really good at faking it, prompting more laughter from the hosts.

Another caller called Darren rang in to recall how his tools were stolen on a construction site after leaving them over the weekend.

Not knowing how to recoup the cash, he smashed in his car window so he could claim the tools on insurance.

While the funny anecdotes amused many listeners and the hosts themselves, Insurance Council Australia were less than impressed.

The reactions from Lewis Hobba (pictured right with his partner Alex) and his radio show co-host Michael Hing to listeners' stories has sparked a divided response

One man recalled how he help his mate rort the system by fake physio studio (stock image)

Insurance fraud has cost the industry millions, according to as spokesperson.

'Many Australians need the support and protection of their insurer, particularly after natural disasters,' they told news.com,au.

'These people can be impacted when insurer resources are diverted from assisting legitimate claims to dealing with fraudulent claims.'

Daily Mail Australia has contacted ABC and Insurance Council Australia for comment.

Criticism: An Insurance Council Australia spokesperson said the fraud isn't a matter that should be joked about

The segment sparked a divided response from the public, with some finding the segment 'funny as hell.'

'Leave them alone, they're just being edgy,' one man tweeted.

Others failed to see the funny side.

'How is this funny? Insurance fraud costs the rest of us, big time. With jacked up premiums. Out of reach for some people that want to protect & feel secure insuring what they have worked their guts out for. Yeah hilarious. Grow up,' one person tweeted.

Another person wrote: 'Triple J's insurers should cancel the stations insurance. See if they can get insurance elsewhere since they think insurance fraud is funny. Close the joint down.'

Lewis and Michael host the Triple J's Drive radio show weekdays from 3 to 5:30pm.
Sami Lukis has taken over from Meshel Laurie on Wollongong's Wave FM 96.5 Breakfast Show with Straney & Damien Leith.

According to a report by radioinfo on Friday, Sami, 51, is filling in for regular host Jade Tonta while she's on maternity leave.

Meshel, 47, was previously filling in for Jade, but she was replaced by Sami, who took over on Monday.

Changeover: Sami Lukis (right) has taken over from Meshel Laurie (left) on Wollongong's Wave FM 96.5 Breakfast Show with Straney & Damien Leith

The comedian appeared to have parted on good terms though, with Wave FM stating they 'can't thank the amazing Meshel Laurie enough, who has done an incredible job hosting the show'.

Fellow radio host and former Australian Idol winner Damien Leith also paid tribute to Meshel, while welcoming Sami to the team.

'It's been such a thrill to work with Meshel over the past few months, we've shared lots of laughs and she's taught me a great deal along the way, we even wrote a song together!' the 45-year-old said.

Temporary host: Meshel, 47, was previously filling in for Jade, but she was replaced by Sami, who took over on Monday

'I'm also really looking forward to reconnecting with Sami, she's incredibly talented and the Illawarra are in for treat.'

Meanwhile, Sami confessed she was both 'nervous and excited' to be returning to breakfast radio.

'It's been quite a few years between radio shows (and 4am wakeup calls), so I'm nervous and excited to be joining the team next week...' she said.

New addition: Fellow radio host and former Australian Idol winner Damien Leith (right) also paid tribute to Meshel, while welcoming Sami to the team

'I'm looking forward to spending more time in such a gorgeous part of the world - but mostly, I'm looking forward to having Damien sing to me every morning.'

It was announced in February that Meshel would be returning to radio to host Wave FM's breakfast show, almost two years after quitting The Project.

'Jade is about to have a baby and I am not. I couldn't be happier for both of us,' she told industry website Radio Today at the time.

Filling in: It was announced in February that Meshel would be returning to radio to host Wave FM's breakfast show, almost two years after quitting The Project

'I'm also thrilled to be keeping her seat warm for the next couple of months. Talk about shaking off the 2020 blues.'

The announcement came two years after Meshel quit KIIS FM's Matt & Meshel radio show and also stopped her regular appearances on Channel 10's The Project.

In a tell-all interview with McKnight Tonight in 2019, Meshel said she'd experienced career burnout before quitting both roles.

'It's been quite a few years between radio shows (and 4am wakeup calls), so I'm nervous and excited to be joining the team next week...' said Sami

She also confessed she was 'quite broke' due to her charitable donations.

'I'd worked hard for a long time and I'd always enjoyed [working in the media] but I just hit a wall,' she said.

'You're so driven by the next job and getting the job and keeping the job, and the fear of other people coming up behind you, and the fear of taking a day off [in case] whoever replaces you will be great. I was that person, I wanted to keep grinding.'
She's recently been speaking out against anti-Asian racism.

And on Sunday, Olivia Munn lent her celebrity to another cause - Global Citizen's VAX Live: The Concert to Reunite the World.

The actress was among the stars who showed up for the event hosted by Selena Gomez that brought together 20,000 vaccinated health workers at LA's SoFi Stadium.

Fashionista: Olivia Munn looked gorgeous in a silky gold pant suit as she arrived for Global Citizen's VAX Live: The Concert to Reunite the World in LA on Sunday night

Munn chose a striking gold pant suit for the occasion.

She went bra-less under the long blazer that was fastened with a single button just above the navel.

The outfit's long and wide trousers pooled around her feet and she carried a small shiny gold clutch.

The star of The Newsroom wore her long hair loose with a center parting and accessorized with a diamond necklace and matching earrings.

Lovely look: The actress went bra-less under the long blazer that was fastened with a single button, and she accessorized with a diamond necklace and matching earrings

Stylish star: She wore her long hair loose with a center parting and she carried a small shiny gold clutch

For a good cause: Munn joined the likes of Sean Penn, Ben Affleck and Jimmy Kimmel at the concert where she took the stage to deliver some remarks

Later, Munn posted a ton of images to her social media in which she admitted that it had felt strange being back on a red carpet again.

'Yep. Red caroet still feels uncomfortable,' she wrote over an image taken of her posing for photographers.

She also shared a mirror selfie showing her glam makeup and diamonds in close up and also shared some pics showing her arriving at the event in the back of a large black SUV.

No mask: Later, Munn posted a ton of images to her social media in which she admitted that it had felt strange being back on a red carpet again

Ready to go: She also shared a mirror selfie showing her glam makeup and diamonds in close up

It takes a village: The Newsroom star also tagged her style and glam squad

Chauffeur driven: She also shared some pics showing her arriving at the event in the back of a large black SUV

Munn joined the likes of Sean Penn, Ben Affleck, Jimmy Kimmel and Prince Harry at the concert where she took the stage to deliver some remarks.

Musical performances came from Jennifer Lopez, Eddie Vedder and Foo Fighters among others.

The idea behind Vax Live was to celebrate the U.S. vaccination campaign as well as help ensure people in other countries get vaccines and serve as a fundraiser.

The concert was taped for broadcast and will air on May 8.

Meanwhile, Munn, who is of Chinese-Vietnamese descent, recently took part in an anti-Asian racism PSA with Ken Jeong, Simu Liu and other stars.

Created as a response to the recent rise in anti-Asian violence, the three-minute video also served as a fundraiser for the AAPI (Asian American and Pacific Islander) Community Fund.

Star-studded: The event was hosted by Selena Gomez, featured an appearance by Britain's Prince Harry and included a performance by Jennifer Lopez
She turns 53 later this month.

But Kylie Minogue wound the clock back on Monday, when she stepped out in Melbourne.

The Say Something hitmaker, 52, flaunted her line-free visage as she ran some errands.

How does she do it? Ageless Kylie Minogue, 52, flaunted her line-free visage as she stepped out in Melbourne on Monday

Casual chic: Kylie kept things simple for the outing in a monochrome ensemble - pairing black trousers with a dark blouse as she exited her car and strolled to a local shopping centre

Kylie kept things simple for the outing in a monochrome ensemble - pairing black trousers with a dark blouse as she exited her car and strolled to a local shopping centre.

The Neighbours alum slipped a beige coat over the top.

On her feet, she wore a pair of chunky black Dr. Martens boots.

Magic in monochrome: She turned heads in the simple yet chic outfit as she strolled the streets

Good hair day: The Spinning Around songstress had her wavy blonde tresses coiffed in loose waves and she shielded her gaze behind a pair of large dark shades

Flawless: She wound the clock back, wowing onlooker with her flawless complexion

Back to black: Minogue paired black trousers with a dark blouse as she exited her car and strolled to a local shopping centre

The Spinning Around songstress had her wavy blonde tresses coiffed in loose waves and she shielded her gaze behind a pair of large dark shades.

Kylie accessorised with minimal jewellery for her day of retail therapy, sporting a thin gold bracelet on one wrist, as well as a scrunchie.

Travelling light, the native Melburnian carried a black leather handbag and an iPhone as she caught up with her mother for a coffee.

Well-heeled: On her feet, Kylie slipped a pair of chunky black Dr. Martens boots

The sighting comes after it was revealed Kylie and Dannii Minogue are officially joining RuPaul's Drag Race Down Under.

The two famous sisters will be guest judges on the Stan original series, which drops on May 1.

'I'm SO excited to finally be a part of RuPaul's Drag Race for the first series Down Under,' Kylie said in a statement.

'It's such an iconic show and I can't wait to watch the contestants perform their hearts out to win the title of Down Under's first Drag Superstar!'

Baggage: Travelling light, the native Melburnian carried a black leather handbag and an iPhone as she caught up with her mother for a coffee

Next gig: The sighting comes after it was revealed Kylie and Dannii Minogue are officially joining RuPaul's Drag Race Down Under

Meanwhile Danni, 49, admitted: 'I got to have a cheeky ''untucked'' chat with the girls on RuPaul's Drag Race Down Under Season one.

'They had come straight from the runway challenge so it was exciting and tense all at the same time, not knowing who was going to have to lip sync for their life!'

Earlier this month, the streaming platform released the trailer for the much-awaited show.

And based on the outrageous preview, the Australian and New Zealand queens are set to deliver plenty of drama and laughs.

Big get: 'I'm SO excited to finally be a part of RuPaul's Drag Race for the first series Down Under,' Kylie said in a statement

She's a fan: 'It's such an iconic show and I can't wait to watch the contestants perform their hearts out to win the title of Down Under's first Drag Superstar!'

In one scene from the trailer, RuPaul tells Coco Jumbo that her costume is 'rotten', leaving the other queens shrieking with laughter.

'If there's anything I love it's putting on a f**king show!' Coco later adds.

The eight-part series will be the first time there has been a local version of the hit Drag Race franchise here in Australia.

RuPaul himself will be hosting, with drag icon Michelle Visage and Australian comedian Rhys Nicholson by his side on the main judging panel.

Iconic: Kylie's inclusion will be warmly welcomed by fans after she sparked speculation she could be preparing for a judging role on RuPaul's Drag Race Down Under in February

High praise: At the time, hopes were raised after the beauty retweeted a post from RuPaul, 60, saying he was a big fan of her new album Disco, calling it a 'masterpiece'

Kylie's inclusion will be warmly welcomed by fans after she sparked speculation she could be preparing for a judging role on RuPaul's Drag Race Down Under in February.

At the time, hopes were raised after the beauty retweeted a post from RuPaul, 60, saying he was a big fan of her new album Disco, calling it a 'masterpiece'.

Also added to the list of celebrities joining the show is THOR Ragnarok's very own Taika Waititi.

RuPaul's Drag Race Down Under premiered May 1, only on Stan, with new episodes weekly.
Vanessa Hudgens showed off her elegant fashion sense on Friday at an event promoting the cactus water brand Caliwater.

Vanessa lit up the desert landscape at the Mojave Moon Ranch, just outside Joshua Tree National Park in Southern California.

The 32-year-old Spring Breakers star flaunted her enviable curves in a stunning halter sundress from Adriana Iglesias.

Desert beauty: Vanessa Hudgens showed off her elegant fashion sense on Friday at an event promoting the cactus water brand Caliwater near Joshua Tree National Park in Southern California

Vanessa showed some of her tanned skin in the outfit, which was backless.

The white dress reached down to her ankles and was decorated with stylishly faded floral patterns.

Her tied collar featured long strands dangling down her back, and she paired the dress with beige heels.

The High School Musical star wore her lustrous raven tresses in a high ponytail that dangled all the way down her back.

Sunny style: The 32-year-old Spring Breakers star flaunted her enviable curves in a stunning halter sundress from Adriana Iglesias

Eye catching: The backless white dress reached down to her ankles and was decorated with stylishly faded floral patterns

Vanessa did her best to cut down on her sun exposure with a white parasol

She added extra sparkle to her look with dangling gold hoops with tear-drop shaped pearls.

Vanessa also did her best to cut down on her sun exposure with a white parasol.

She arched her neck and placed her hands on her head to showcased her copper-colored makeup in an Instagram post taken from the event.

'Launching @caliwater at our caliwater escape was pure magic,' she wrote. '@olivertrevena @ggmagree we done did it. thanks to everyone whos apart of the ride .'

Gorgeous: She arched her neck and placed her hands on her head to showcased her copper-colored makeup in an Instagram post taken from the event

Success: 'Launching @caliwater at our caliwater escape was pure magic,' she wrote. '@olivertrevena @ggmagree we done did it. thanks to everyone whos apart of the ride .'

One outfit wasn't enough though, and later in the evening she changed in a gorgeous pale pink dress.

The dress had a plunging neckline reaching down to her midriff that emphasized her cleavage with a quilted satin border.

The dress featured long sheer sleeves, and its voluminous skirt billowed in the desert breeze.

Vanessa raised her hands in the air with joy as she posed in the new outfit while surrounded by cacti.

Outfit number two: One outfit wasn't enough though, and later in the evening she changed in a gorgeous pale pink dress

Pretty in pink: The dress had a plunging neckline reaching down to her midriff that emphasized her cleavage with a quilted satin border

Stunning: The dress featured long sheer sleeves, and its voluminous skirt billowed in the desert breeze

Picture perfect: She showcased her redone makeup in a closeup highlighting her drawn-on freckles and her arching eye makeup. 'Love a wardrobe change annnnnd new face lol,' she wrote

She shared more of the gorgeous look in a second Instagram post.

'Love a wardrobe change annnnnd new face lol,' she captioned it.

She rested her arm on her forehead in one snap while gazing seductively into the camera.

She showcased her redone makeup in a closeup highlighting her drawn-on freckles and her white arching eye makeup.

Best buds: Vanessa also included some snaps of her friends GG Magree, a DJ and electronic music producer, and photographer Vince Rossi

Party style: GG wore a low-cut lacey black top tucked into black cut-off jeans, while sporting perfect blond bangs

Going for a ride: Vince wore a satin puce shirt and a ripped undershirt with dark pants

Vanessa also included some snaps of her friends GG Magree, a DJ and electronic music producer, and photographer Vince Rossi.

GG would later go behind the decks to DJ after DJ Ruckus and Zen Freeman, who will serve as in-house entertainers at Las Vegas' lavish $5billion Resorts World when it opens next month, shortly before Katy Perry kicks off her residency at the mega-casino/luxury hotel.

She wowed in a low-cut lacey black top tucked into black cut-off jeans, while sporting perfect blond bangs.

Chill: Behind the scenes VIPs could cool down in the comfort of 12 fully decked out Cool RVs and upscale Airstreams by celeb-beloved RV and camper van rental marketplace Outdoorsy

Favs: The VIP rental hub has been a go-to for stars like Mariah Carey, Bella Thorne, Zoey Deutch, and Madelaine Petsch and all their camping needs

Fresh: It was the perfect place to take a break from the hot summer sun

Vince wore a satin puce shirt and a ripped undershirt with dark pants.

Behind the scenes VIPs could cool down in the comfort of 12 fully decked out Cool RVs and upscale Airstreams by celeb-beloved RV and camper van rental marketplace Outdoorsy.

The VIP rental hub has been a go-to for stars like Mariah Carey, Bella Thorne, Zoey Deutch, and Madelaine Petsch and all their camping needs.

Cute couple: Among the guests at the event was former Dancing With The Stars pro Derek Hough, along with his longtime girlfriend Hayley Erbert

No fuss: He wore a simple white T-shirt with acid-wash jeans, while she wore a short white striped dress

Low key: Robin Williams' daughter Zelda Williams looked cool in a gold tank top with dark jeans and black sneakers

Among the guests at the event was former Dancing With The Stars pro Derek Hough, along with his longtime girlfriend Hayley Erbert.

He wore a simple white T-shirt with acid-wash jeans, while she wore a short white striped dress.

Robin Williams' daughter Zelda Williams looked cool in a gold tank top with dark jeans and black sneakers.

Cute couple: Ashlee Simpson mirrored Vanessa earlier look with a white sleeveless dress covered in floral patterns. Her husband Evan wore a white double-breasted blazer with black trousers

Friends: Ross also posed with Vanessa and her friend Oliver Trevana, who wore a gray button-up shirt over a white T-shirt

Ashlee Simpson mirrored Vanessa earlier look with a white sleeveless dress covered in floral patterns.

Her husband Evan wore a white double-breasted blazer with black trousers.

Ross also posed with Vanessa and her friend Oliver Trevana, who wore a gray button-up shirt over a white T-shirt.

Feud and Ballers star Serinda Swan looked chic in a black dress with one shoulder popped down to show off her lacy black bra.
Line Of Duty viewers were left shocked to discover DSI Ian Buckells was criminal H during Sunday's finale of series six, but who is the man behind the elusive character?

Ex-barman Nigel Boyle - who portrayed Buckells throughout the BBC show's first, fourth and sixth series - started his career with minor roles in programmes such as Coronation Street and Peaky Blinders, before landing his biggest job to date in 2012.

Aside from his profession, the actor is a life-long supporter of Aston Villa F.C. and raises sons Finnian, five, and Decan Sonny, two, and daughter Cora Rose, three weeks, with wife Lainy.

Shocking end: Line Of Duty viewers were left shocked to discover DSI Ian Buckells was criminal H during Sunday's finale of series six, but who is the man behind the character?

The youngest in his family of six, Nigel was born in Moseley, Birmingham, before he relocated to the city's Bartley Green suburb as a child.

His parents came to the West Midlands from Ireland in the 50s and would often 'move around' as they were involved in the pub trade.

On his humble beginnings, the screen star said in an interview with Birmingham Mail in March: 'We had the Monarch in Quinton and a pub in Bartley Green called the Bale of Hay. My old man ran The Monarch for 13 years.

'I was always hanging round with my dad and pulling pints and working with him. In Perry Barr it's a stone's throw away from Villa Park and one of his mates took me to a game and I absolutely loved it.'

Father-of-three: Ex-barman Nigel Boyle is a life-long supporter of Aston Villa F.C. and raises Finnian, five, Decan Sonny, two, Cora Rose, three weeks, with wife Lainy

Rising: The actor started his career with minor roles (pictured as solicitor Joe with co-star on Coronation Street set - a role he played from 2012 until 2015)

Nigel went on to graduate from the Birmingham School of Acting in 2002 and took part in regular short term work in adverts for brands including Ladbrokes, WKD and McCoy's.

The TV star's career started to pick up when he had a recurring role as a solicitor called Joe in ITV's Corrie from 2012 until 2015, and also played Rickie in Channel 4 sci-fi drama Humans.

Elsewhere, the father-of-three portrayed a policeman in an episode of gangster hit Peaky Blinders in 2017, as well as strict teacher Mr. Hamley in Steve McQueen's Small Axe - which has received a BAFTA TV nomination in the Best Mini-Series category.

While he's set to become one of the nation's most in-demand stars, the thespian juggles his life on the screen with parenthood.

Brief stint: The screen star - who previously worked as a barman with his pub owner father - portrayed a policeman in an episode of gangster hit Peaky Blinders in 2017

Acclaimed: The TV star stepped into the role of strict teacher Mr. Hamley in Steve McQueen's Small Axe last year - which has received a BAFTA TV nom in the Best Mini-Series category

Rise to fame: Nigel pictured with fellow actor Tommy McDonnell in drama series The Enfield Haunting in 2015

Just last month, Nigel and his actress spouse Lainy - who are now based in London - welcomed their third child, a girl, 11 days early.

Line Of Duty Series 6 Finale: Viewing Figures An eye-watering 12.8million viewers tuned in to watch Line Of Duty's sixth season on Sunday night with a 56.2% share in the overnights - recording the network's highest ever overnight rating. Fans tuned in to watch the nail-biting series draw to a close - and the mysterious antagonist 'H' was finally unmasked as DSI Ian Buckells, played by Nigel Boyle. Loyal viewers took to social media in their droves to share their frustrations as officers from the police anti-corruption unit AC-12 discovered the identity of the elusive 'fourth man' - leading to a demand for another series of the show. Charlotte Moore, BBCs Chief Content Officer, said of a seventh season: 'Addictive event television, Line of Duty has kept the nation guessing for the last seven weeks, so its no surprise that last nights jaw dropping finale set a ratings record. 'Jed Mercurio is a master of his craft, and I would like to congratulate him and the entire cast and crew for delivering such an incredible drama series... 'Im looking forward to having a conversation with the team about where we go next and what the future of the series might be.' The calls for another series came due to the disappointment and confusion of some of the 12.8m viewers. Star of the show Martin Compston previously said of the possibility: 'The genuine answer is we dont know'. Advertisement

The Alleycats star announced on Instagram at the time: 'Welcome to the world Cora Rose Boyle. #gooner @lainyboyle is a #hero and Cora looks sooo good in #claretandblue #utv.' (sic)

It is unclear when the couple - who recently starred in a short lockdown-based film called Unmasked - tied the knot.

Lainy has previously appeared in EastEnders as a surgery nurse in 2017, England's Forgotten Queen: The Life and Death of Lady Jane Grey as Mary Tudor three years ago and an 2019 episode of Doctors as Hayley Grant.

On getting his role in Line Of Duty, the performer previously gushed: 'It's an actor's dream to play someone as petty and petulant and annoying as Buckells.

'When I was researching for Line of Duty me and my wife did the whole two series in two days or something like that. Binged it properly. I got the script through and said to my wife - who was my girlfriend at the time - I've got to get this.'

During Monday's This Morning, Nigel said about his children: 'Yes, my newborn is three weeks old. Hopefully she got some sleep [after Sunday's show]! I've got two boys, Finnian and Declan and baby Cora Rose.'

Seasoned fans took to social media in their droves to share their frustrations as officers from the police anti-corruption unit AC-12 discovered the identity of the elusive 'fourth man', who had been colluding with the organised crime group (OCG), was none other than DSU Ian.

The detective was first introduced to viewers in series one when he was appointed as SIO in the case of murdered businesswoman Jackie Laverty by then chief superintendent Derek Hilton.

However, the episode's end failed to offer any resolution on whether the fan-favourite team of DI Steve Arnott, DI Kate Fleming and Superintendent Ted Hastings would return, ending on the revelation that the team has 'never been weaker.'

The mystery surrounding the identity of 'H' has been up for speculation since the show was first released in 2012 and detectives at the anti-corruption unit discovered there were four officers working within the force who had links to the underground criminal network.

Interests: The performer pictured recently with an Aston Villa-themed face mask on the set of Line Of Duty

'As Vicky McClure would say, LINES OF DUTY!' The Birmingham native also took an image of his script two weeks ago

Sweet: Full house! Just last month, Nigel and his actress spouse Lainy (pictured together in 2019) - who are now based in London - welcomed their third child, a girl, 11 days early

Long-term: The pair have been together for many years

During Sunday's finale episode , superintendent Ted Hastings, played by actor Adrian Dunbar, was seen asking his colleague Chloe to run checks on the constant misspelling of the word 'definately' which had become synonymous with the 'fourth man' in previous episodes.

A number of checks traced the word back to Buckells who used the misspelling when messaging former undercover officer John Corbett, played by Stephen Graham, in series five.

When confronted with the revelation Hastings was left astounded, asking his colleague: 'Are you sure Chloe?'

After being confronted by Hastings and his team Buckells declared: 'I'm only the one whose made total mugs out of you lot!'

Co-stars: It is unclear when the couple - who recently starred in a short lockdown-based film called Unmasked (pictured) - tied the knot

A man with many talents: Nigel is also believed to be a professional guitarist (pictured above preparing for a concert)

He also revealed that they would have to offer him immunity or Witness Protection if they wanted him to co-operate.

Pointing out that H did not officially exist as the investigation into corruption had been quashed, he insisted Tommy Hunter, the organised crime kingpin who was a sinister character during the drama's early series, was the leader of the OCG.

Although several viewers were shocked that Buckells turned out to be the Fourth Man, he previously hinted at being H way back in 2017.

Speaking to Digital Spy during series four, Nigel said: 'There's definitely more to Buckells than meets the eye!

Long-running: The thespian portrayed Buckells throughout the BBC show's first, fourth and sixth series

Best-kept secret: The mystery surrounding the identity of 'H' has been up for speculation since the show was first released in 2012

'He's very competent, very good at what he does, he's the go-to guy, but he's certainly not a popular guy  he's petulant, and a bit of a jobsworth I think.

'I don't think people give him enough credit, just because of his personality!'

Nigel defended the series six finale during an appearance on BBC Breakfast on Monday, after fans took to Twitter to express their disappointment.

The former pub worker insisted fans of the hit show would grow to appreciate the ending over time, as he also revealed he'd only told his wife Lainy that he was the Fourth Man ahead of the finale.

He said: 'The fans have been brilliant. So many people have invested so much in this series, and some of the fans' theories themselves have been outstanding.

H speaks out: Nigel defended the series six finale during an appearance on BBC Breakfast on Monday, after fans took to Twitter to express their disappointment

'So I think there's always gonna be some element of disappointment, but you can't have every series with a big shoot-out, urgent exit required.

'Sometimes the subtler message is more important. I sent a tweet out after the episode last night and I jumped in a car and came straight over to the studios, so I didn't really look at social media.

'I think when people reflect and they get back to work tomorrow and start talking about it, I think some people won't be as disappointed.

'I think with this season more so than the other seasons, people have been watching it not just once, but two or three times and really analysing what's going on.

Doing the rounds: The screen star also made an appearance on ITV's This Morning with Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield

'And I think when you watch this again, I think you'll reaffirm some assumptions and you'll see things that you might not have seen.'

He continued: If your expectations are somewhere then you're setting yourself up sometimes for disappointment.

'That's not to say that all the fans are doing that, it's just everyone's got their own ideas and theories about how something's gonna pan out and if everyone does that, someone's not gonna be happy somewhere along the line.'

Line Of Duty: An eye-watering 12.8 MILLION viewers tune in to watch 'disappointing' finale and score BBC its highest EVER overnight rating... as bosses refuse to deny seventh season

Line of Duty's series six finale received 12.8million viewers with a 56.2% share in the overnights, recording BBC's highest ever overnight rating

Fans tuned in to watch the nail-biting series draw to a close - and the mysterious antagonist 'H' was finally unmasked as DSI Ian Buckells, played by Nigel Boyle

Due to the disappointment and confusion of some of the viewers, there have been widespread calls for a seventh season to tie up loose ends

Following the demands for a new season, Charlotte Moore, BBCs Chief Content Officer, refused to confirm or deny the possibility

ByCiara Farmer For Mailonline

An eye-watering 12.8million viewers tuned in to watch Line Of Duty's sixth season on Sunday night with a 56.2% share in the overnights - recording the network's highest ever overnight rating.

Fans tuned in to watch the nail-biting series draw to a close - and the mysterious antagonist 'H' was finally unmasked as DSI Ian Buckells, played by Nigel Boyle.

Loyal viewers took to social media in their droves to share their frustrations as officers from the police anti-corruption unit AC-12 discovered the identity of the elusive 'fourth man' - leading to a demand for another series of the show.

Charlotte Moore, BBCs Chief Content Officer, said of a seventh season: 'Addictive event television, Line of Duty has kept the nation guessing for the last seven weeks, so its no surprise that last nights jaw dropping finale set a ratings record...

An eye-watering 12.8million viewers tuned in to watch Line Of Duty 's sixth season on Sunday night with a 56.2% share in the overnights - recording the network's highest ever overnight rating

'Jed Mercurio is a master of his craft, and I would like to congratulate him and the entire cast and crew for delivering such an incredible drama series...

'Im looking forward to having a conversation with the team about where we go next and what the future of the series might be.'

The calls for another series came due to the disappointment and confusion of some of the 12.8m viewers. Star of the show Martin Compston previously said of the possibility: 'The genuine answer is we dont know'.

The revelation the bent copper colluding with the organised crime groups (OCGs), was actually DSI Ian Buckells infuriated many seasoned Line Of Duty fans.

It was at least revealed that the so-called fourth man was actually DSU Ian Buckells, who had been originally imprisoned after appearing to have been framed by Davidson

Viewers were noticeable underwhelmed to learn the identity of the elusive criminal, as the series ended on an ambiguous note

An even longer wait: Like many shows, series six was hit by several delays due to the Covid pandemic, with filming in Belfast halted back in March 2020, just days before the UK was plunged into lockdown

Line Of Duty finale: How the viewing figures compare 2021 Line Of Duty finale, May 2 (BBC One) 12.8 million Prince Philip's funeral, April 17 (ITV & BBC One) 13.6 million Harry and Meghan with Oprah Winfrey, March 8 (ITV) 11.7 million 2020 Boris Johnson lockdown announcement, March 23 (BBC One) 14.5 million Queen's address to the nation, April 5 (BBC One) 14 million Boris Johnson's second address to the nation, May 10 (BBC One) 18.7 million I'm A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here!, November 15 (ITV) 12.1 million 2019 Gavin And Stacey Christmas special (BBC One) 17.1 million viewers 2012 Closing ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games (BBC One) 24.5 million 2010 The X Factor (ITV) 17.7 million 1995 Princess Diana interview with Martin Bashir (BBC One) 23 million 1966 The 1966 World Cup final (BBC and ITV joint broadcast) 32.3 million viewers Advertisement

It saw the words 'fuming', 'disappointing' and 'underwhelming' all trend on social media in the aftermath of the show.

And the disbelief it could be him was compounded by the way he was only caught because of his repeated mis-spelling of the word 'definitely' - hardly the blunder of a hardened criminal mastermind.

The detective - widely thought until Sunday to have been just a bungling stooge - was first introduced to viewers in series one as the SIO in the case of murdered businesswoman Jackie Laverty by then Chief Superintendent Derek Hilton.

He later went on to become Detective Chief Inspector in series four before being promoted once more to Detective Superintendent in this final series.

Sharing their disappointment on the revelation, one disgruntled Line of Duty fan wrote on Twitter: 'Can't believe I watched six seasons of line of Duty for Ian Buckells, the most pointless character to be the fourth man. Fuming.'

While another viewer added: 'I'm fuming, can't believe I waited this long for Ian Buckells to run the roost.'

And while the finale tied up many unresolved storylines, there were still some gaping plot holes and storylines left unanswered.

The sixth series of the Jed Mercurio creation also saw DI Steve Arnott, played by actor Martin, finally called in for a meeting with Occupational Health, who noted that while he had not broken the law through his excessive painkiller use, he would have to surrender his firearms licence.

However, the 60-minute episode's end failed to offer any resolution on whether the team of DI Steve Arnott, DI Kate Fleming and Superintendent Ted Hastings would return, ending on the revelation that the team has 'never been weaker.'

The mystery surrounding the identity of 'H' has been up for speculation since his character was first mentioned at the end of series three, which aired in 2016, and detectives at the anti-corruption unit discovered there were four officers working within the force who had links to the underground criminal network.

Fans shared their frustrations as officers of the police anti-corruption unit AC-12 discovered the identity of the elusive 'fourth man'

Anticipated: Given the show's record-breaking viewership, fans hoped that the finale would answer all their burning questions, including the identity of the elusive 'H'

Line Of Duty: The SIX mysteries that were finally explained in 'underwhelming' series finale... and the questions that have been left unanswered The sixth series of Line Of Duty came to its long-awaited conclusion on Sunday night, with viewers finally learning the identity of the Fourth Man H. However, despite fears this could be the show's last hurrah, millions of viewers were still left with unanswered questions, as the future of AC-12 was left hanging in the balance, and Superintendent Hastings feared for his future after confessing he revealed John Corbett was an Undercover Officer. So, as fans wait to see whether Jed Mercurio's police drama could return for a seventh out, MailOnline examines some of the answers fans got to their burning questions, the mysteries that remain unsolved... We want more! The sixth series of Line Of Duty came to its long-awaited conclusion on Sunday night, but its conclusion left viewers with more questions than answers Answers! On Sunday fans finally learned that Superintendent Buckells was the famous fourth man, having liased with OCG's to bring down officers who failed to do their bidding The mysteries that have finally been solved... Who is H? It's been a question posed by die-hard and casual fans alike, after years wondering about the identity of the fourth man known as H. On Sunday fans finally learned that Superintendent Buckells was the famous fourth man, having liased with OCG's to bring down officers who failed to do their bidding. Despite painting himself as a bumbling fool, the copper actually formed a secret operation with an array of 'bent coppers' and even blackmailed Acting Superintendent Davidson thanks to her history with the group as Tommy Hunter's daughter. It appeared that AC-12 had caught him red-handed, especially as Steve dealt the fatal blow by revealing he had to co-operate to make him eligible for witness protection. Hastings delivered the final line, declaring: 'No one makes mugs of AC-12,' before leaving the interview, with viewers later learning that Buckells would have to receive immunity, or none of the corruption evidence will be heard in court. Upsetting: In a shocking bombshell last week Acting Superintendent Davidson learned that she was both the daughter and niece of OCG member Tommy Hunter, having previously been led to believe her father was little more than a bent copper Who was the man Jo Davidson believed was her father? In a shocking bombshell last week Acting Superintendent Davidson learned that she was both the daughter and niece of OCG member Tommy Hunter, having previously been led to believe her father was little more than a bent copper. But, after Davidson is rescued by AC-12 from a group of OCG members who attempt to kill her, she finally admits the man she thought was her dad was former CS Patrick Fairbank, a retired officer thrown behind bars when it was revealed he both covered up and participated in abuse at a children's home. Once again, Fairbanks claims he cannot remember Davidson or her mother, insisting he doesn't recall much of his own criminal past. Luckily, it seems Davidson finally gets her happy ending after years under the control of the OCG, finding a new life in the countryside in Witness Protection. Him? But, after Davidson is rescued by AC-12 from a group of OCG members who attempt to kill her, she finally admits the man she thought was her dad was former CS Patrick Fairbank Who killed Gail Vella? This mystery proved to be the crutch of the whole series, as fans waited to see whether they would finally learn who killed Gail Vella. At last fans discovered that it was Carl Banks who had shot her after weapons discovered in a strong box hidden at the OCG's workshop, meaning suspect Terry Boyle could be released. Luckily it appeared that Vella's death wasn't completely in vain, as the episode's end also revealed that Darren Hunter was now under investigation for Lawrence Christopher's murder, though an official inquiry was yet to be opened. What a relief! Fans feared that Steve could be struck off for failing a drugs test due to his painkiller addiction, and by the episode's end it appeared that he was getting help with his superior Hastings' support Was Steve sacked for failing his drugs test? For several weeks viewers saw Steve attempting to ignore multiple emails from Occupational Health after submitting to a mandatory drugs test. Arnott had been struggled with a painkiller addiction to control his searing back pain from an injury suffered back in series four when he was attacked by one of the 'Balaclava Men.' The series six finale saw him finally sit down with the Health team who noted that while none of the drugs he'd taken were illegal, the high levels were concerning, and stated he may need a take a break from active duty. To no surprise Steve refused, and insisted he must continue with his investigation, though he did agree to the possibility of surrendering his firearm. Arnott then revealed his addiction to Hastings, who later implied he'd kept quiet about Steve to keep him on active duty adding he was grateful he was 'getting some help.' Revelations: Hastings also revealed that he gave 50,000 to Steph Corbett after inadvertantly causing the death of her husband John by revealing his undercover status to OCG member Lee Banks By the series' end, Steve hinted he may take a break from work to finally ditch the pills, but still appeared to be a fundamental part of the AC-12 team. What happened to the 50,000 Ted gave to Steph? After being given an envelope full of 100,000 in cash, fans had been wondering what happened to half of the money, when Steve discovered 50k in John Corbett's widow Steph's flat. Probed by both Steve and Kate, who feared that the gaffer could be bent, Hastings insisted he only came clean about Corbett's undercover status to Lee Banks, who later told Ryan Pilkington who killed him, in the hope he'd get back in contact. He then revealed he gave Steph half the money in the hope it would clear his conscience, adding: 'If there is one thing I could take back, it would be that. What a terrible thing I did.' Alive or dead? Many fans were convinced that DI Marcus Thurwell could have been secretly living in Spain despite AC-12 being led to believe they've found his body last week, but it turned how he was definitely killed Is Marcus Thurwell alive? Many fans were convinced that DI Marcus Thurwell could have been secretly living in Spain despite AC-12 being led to believe they've found his body last week. However, this turned out to be a huge red herring, as DC Bishop confirmed in the finale that Thurwell was definitely strangled to death, and his body had acutally been left for several weeks before being discovered by Spanish police. It was a disappointing end to a character that had been tipped for big bombshells in the series as he was played by James Nesbitt. Why him? Ahead of learning that Tommy Hunter was both her uncle and father, Davidson first appeared to pin the blame on Fairbank by simply confirming that her adopted dad was a 'bent copper And the questions that have been left unanswered.... Why did Davidson point the finger at Fairbank? Ahead of learning that Tommy Hunter was both her uncle and father, Davidson first appeared to pin the blame on Fairbank by simply confirming that her adopted dad was a 'bent copper.' Arnott and Bishop then decided to speak to him upon learning he was part of the same team involved in Lawrence Christopher's murder, but failed to get any answers due to his deteriorating mental state. By the series' end, viewers were still unsure why Davidson tried to blame her supposed father given she herself was being blackmailed, and how this all led to her a target for the OCG after being thrown behind bars. Is it him? Despite the episode revealing that that Detective Superintendent Ian Buckells was actually the so-called 'Fourth Man,' some viewers were quick to note that he didn't confirm whether he was the leader of the Organised Crime Group Really? Instead, he pinned the blame on Tommy Hunter, who was killed back in series two, leaving many viewers unconvinced by his claim Who is the REAL leader of the OCG? Despite the episode revealing that that Detective Superintendent Ian Buckells was actually the so-called 'Fourth Man,' some viewers were quick to note that he didn't wholly confirm whether he was the leader of the Organised Crime Group. Instead, he pinned the blame on Tommy Hunter, who was killed back in series two, meaning Buckells' claims seemed less and less likely. So the question still remains of whether another corrupt officer or criminal is still pulling the strings in the OCG, and Buckells' role as a middle-man means they could still be out to cause trouble for AC-12. What will happen to AC-12? Despite finally uncovering the identity of H through a long paper trail of corrupt officers, fans were surprised to learn the organisation's powers had been significantly weakened. Fleming hinted she'd be open to taking her job back alongside Arnott and Hastings, who vowed to appeal his forced retirement despite confessing to DCS Patricia Carmichael he's revealed John Corbett's identity as an Undercover Officer. Steve hinted he may take a break from active duty to overcome his addiction to painkillers, despite he and Kate appearing closer than ever as she told Occupational Health that he was 'the best.' Despite a final shot of the AC-12 elevator showed the trio reunited as they travelled down the lift together, viewers are less hopeful on whether they'll get to see them together again, especially as bosses have been tight-lipped on whether the show could return for a seventh series Romance? Throughout the series viewers saw Steve form a close bond with John Corbett's widow Steph, even spending the night in her bed after continuing to struggle with back pain Will Steve get together with Steph, or Kate? Throughout the series viewers saw Steve form a close bond with John Corbett's widow Steph, even spending the night in her bed after continuing to struggle with back pain and his painkiller addiction. But by the end of series six, he was clearly doubting whether to pursue a relationship with her, given how she lied about a vast sum of cash given to her by Hastings. As series six concluded, it was clear that Steve and Kate had never been closer, as she described him as being 'the best' during a meeting with Occupational Health, and hinted she could be ready to return to AC-12. Fans have long enjoyed the pair's close friendship but perhaps series seven could lead to something more. How was Steph involved? Aside from the mystery 50k, fans are still in the dark about whether Steph could have any further involvement in the OCG, especially given her presence in the sixth series. There were theories that she could have a secret Marcus Thurwell connection, but given her appearance in this finale stretched to little more than a voicemail, her appearance has left several unanswered questions. What did she do? Aside from the mystery 50k, fans are still in the dark about whether Steph could have any further involvement in the OCG, especially given her presence in the sixth series Who was it? Early in the finale, DC Bishop revealed that the report ordering Davidson's transfer from her prison cell to Hillside Lane police station has been forged by an OCG, with a mystery member faking the signatures of both Kate and Lomax Unsolved: Given Buckells was still in prison at the time, it was unclear who was behind the plot to have Davidson killed, as she clearly knew too much about the OCG, and whether it could have been another officer who ordered her death Who forged Fleming's and DS Chris Lomax's signature? Early in the finale, DC Bishop revealed that the report ordering Davidson's transfer from her prison cell to Hillside Lane police station has been forged by an OCG, with a mystery member faking the signatures of both Kate and Lomax to gain access to her cell. Given Buckells was still in prison at the time, it was unclear who was behind the plot to have Davidson killed, as she clearly knew too much about the OCG, and whether it could have been another officer who ordered her death. Should we trust him? It's possible that Chief Constable Osborne could be involved in the OCG have openly dismissed any claims of corruption on the force, even after AC-12 discovered H's identity Is Chief Constable Osborne bent? For years CC Phillip Osborne has been a prime suspect in AC-12's investigations of corruption, and it was revealed this series that he worked on the Lawrence Christopher murder case now-deceased Marcus Thurwell, and 'H' Buckells In a televised conference, Osborne commended the work of his officers in locating Gail Vella's murder, but once again dismissed any institutional police corruption as 'an outrageous lie.' Given he is clearly willing to dispel any credible leads AC-12 may have, it's possible could be involved in an OCG, and may carry on doing their dirty work for years to come. What will she do? She's become one of the show's most maligned characters, but viewers were left hoping that Carmichael had some glimmer of compassion after Hastings decided to make a confession Will DCI Patricia Carmichael expose Hastings' wrongdoing.... She's become one of the show's most maligned characters, but viewers were left hoping that Carmichael had some glimmer of compassion after Hastings decided to make a confession. Clearly still a lawful man despite years working in corruption, Ted admitted that he did reveal to Lee Banks that there was someone working undercover in organised crime, indirectly leading to John Corbett's death. Carmichael simply asked: 'What do you want me to do with that information?' leading to one of Hastings' best speeches yet, declaring: 'Whatever you do, you do it because you carry the fire' As Hastings made his exit, Carmichael's stoic expression hinted she is less keen to report him then viewers may think... .... and will he succeed in appealing his forced retirement? During his final meeting with Carmichal, Ted also revealed he is planning to appeal against being forced to retire from active duty, despite finally putting one of the team's longest-serving mysteries to bed. It was clear from the start that he wasn't ready to step down, so it remains to be seen whether he'll succeed in keeping his job, and AC-12, going strong to fight corruption another day. Will there be a series seven? It's the question on every Line Of Duty fan's lips following the finale, with the concluding episode ending on a somewhat cliffhanger. BBC bosses are yet to confirm whether the show will be back for another outing, and even the show's star Martin Compston stating this conclusion will be a 'perfect ending.' Fans will have to wait and see whether Line Of Duty will be back for another run, but it seems unlikely BBC will let the show go given its record-breaking viewership. Line Of Duty is available on BBC iPlayer. Advertisement

Like many shows, series six was hit by several delays due to the Covid pandemic, with filming in Belfast halted back in March 2020, just days before the UK was plunged into lockdown.

Production was finally able to resume in September that year with strict safety guidelines, including the use of studio sets as opposed to real locations, regular testing measures.

Filming for series six finally wrapped in November, with bosses later confirming it would be seven episodes as opposed to the usual six.
He's become beloved to Line Of Duty fans for his role as Terry Boyle in BBC's ratings juggernaut Line Of Duty.

And Tommy Jessop has claimed he 'had a feeling' who H was ahead of Sunday's dramatic series six finale which saw DSI Ian Buckells (Nigel Boyle) unveiled as The Fourth Man.

Appearing on Monday's Good Morning Britain, the actor, 36, who has downs syndrome, also told how he did much of his own stunts on the series, including the crash scene where his character Terry ended up in the river.

Show: Tommy Jessop has claimed he 'had a feeling' who H was ahead of Sunday's dramatic series six finale which saw DSI Ian Buckells (Nigel Boyle) unveiled as The Fourth Man

Asked if he knew who 'H' was ahead of time, Tommy said: 'I had a feeling I knew who H was. I kind of had Jed (Mercurio) really does keep things top secret until the very last minute.'

Terry was previously at risk of drowning after being targeted by corrupt cop Ryan Pilkington (Gregory Piper).

GMB co-host Sean Fletcher asked the actor: 'Did you have a stunt double?'

Tommy said: 'I mostly did the lake scenes by myself but I did have a body double when Ryan pushed Terry out of the water.'

Tommy said: 'I had a feeling I knew who H was. I kind of had Jed (Mercurio) really does keep things top secret until the very last minute' (Nigel Boyle pictured as DSI Ian Buckells)

Dramatic: Tommy also told how he did much of his own stunts on the series, including the crash scene where his character Terry Boyle ended up in the river

He added: 'At one point in the lake scene, it was like living in a freezer in Antarctica.'

Tommy appeared on the show alongside his mother Jane who hinted that all may still have not been revealed.

When asked if Tommy had told her who he thought 'H' was, she said: 'No, obviously we had a lot of theories and ideas but do we even know everything now?'

Co-host Kate Garraway then asked Tommy how he got involved in the hugely successful procedural drama.

Nail-biting: Terry was previously at risk of drowning after being targeted by corrupt cop Ryan Pilkington

The actor said: 'Well, they actually checked to see if I was happy enough to do the big scenes and I was really happy about it. I really did love filming all of it.'

Tommy is now rubbing shoulders with Hollywood royalty, after landing a role in upcoming World War II drama Masters Of The Air, executive produced by none other than Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks.

The actor was previously spotted shooting scenes on the set of the show, which is based on the actions of the Eighth Air Force of the US Army Air Forces in the sleepy Buckinghamshire village of Bledlow.

Asked if 'rumours' of him working on a Spielberg film were true, Tommy coyly replied: 'Possibly, there might be a really top secret film.'

Clues: Tommy appeared on the show alongside his mother Jane who hinted that all may still have not been revealed

Tommy's mother also gushed how proud she is of her son, saying: 'Really pleased and excited for him yes.

'He takes everything in his stride and just goes back to his everyday life, he doesn't let it go to his head or anything. Very proud, yes. It's terribly exciting and amazing that Tommy has had so much support.'

She also told how the actor was sworn to secrecy and couldn't tell any of his friends about his Line of Duty storylines.

She said: 'A lot of Tommy's work is top secret. He kept Line of Duty secret for a year, he couldn't tell any of his friends.'

Proud: Jane said: '[Tommy] takes everything in his stride and just goes back to his everyday life, he doesn't let it go to his head or anything'

Line Of Duty viewers were left shocked to discover DSI Ian Buckells was criminal H during Sunday's finale of series six, but who is the man behind the elusive character?

Ex-barman Nigel Boyle - who portrayed Buckells throughout the BBC show's first, fourth and sixth series - started his career with minor roles in programmes such as Coronation Street and Peaky Blinders, before landing his biggest job to date in 2012.

Aside from his profession, the actor is a life-long supporter of Aston Villa F.C. and raises sons Finnian, five, and Decan Sonny, two, and daughter Cora Rose, three weeks, with wife Lainy.

The youngest in his family of six, Nigel was born in Moseley, Birmingham, before he relocated to the city's Bartley Green suburb as a child.

Shocking end: Line Of Duty viewers were left shocked to discover DSI Ian Buckells was criminal H during Sunday's finale of series six, but who is the man behind the character?

Father-of-three: Ex-barman Nigel Boyle is a life-long supporter of Aston Villa F.C. and raises Finnian, five, Decan Sonny, two, Cora Rose, three weeks, with wife Lainy

His parents came to the West Midlands from Ireland in the 50s and would often 'move around' as they were involved in the pub trade.

On his humble beginnings, the screen star said in an interview with Birmingham Mail in March: 'We had the Monarch in Quinton and a pub in Bartley Green called the Bale of Hay. My old man ran The Monarch for 13 years.

'I was always hanging round with my dad and pulling pints and working with him. In Perry Barr it's a stone's throw away from Villa Park and one of his mates took me to a game and I absolutely loved it.'

Nigel went on to graduate from the Birmingham School of Acting in 2002 and took part in regular short term work in adverts for brands including Ladbrokes, WKD and McCoy's.

Rising: The actor started his career with minor roles (pictured as solicitor Joe with co-star on Coronation Street set - a role he played from 2012 until 2015)

The TV star's career started to pick up when he had a recurring role as a solicitor called Joe in ITV's Corrie from 2012 until 2015, and also played Rickie in Channel 4 sci-fi drama Humans.

Line Of Duty Series 6 Finale: Viewing Figures An eye-watering 12.8million viewers tuned in to watch Line Of Duty's sixth season on Sunday night with a 56.2% share in the overnights - recording the network's highest ever overnight rating. Fans tuned in to watch the nail-biting series draw to a close - and the mysterious antagonist 'H' was finally unmasked as DSI Ian Buckells, played by Nigel Boyle. Loyal viewers took to social media in their droves to share their frustrations as officers from the police anti-corruption unit AC-12 discovered the identity of the elusive 'fourth man' - leading to a demand for another series of the show. Charlotte Moore, BBCs Chief Content Officer, said of a seventh season: 'Addictive event television, Line of Duty has kept the nation guessing for the last seven weeks, so its no surprise that last nights jaw dropping finale set a ratings record. 'Jed Mercurio is a master of his craft, and I would like to congratulate him and the entire cast and crew for delivering such an incredible drama series... 'Im looking forward to having a conversation with the team about where we go next and what the future of the series might be.' The calls for another series came due to the disappointment and confusion of some of the 12.8m viewers. Star of the show Martin Compston previously said of the possibility: 'The genuine answer is we dont know'. Advertisement

Elsewhere, the father-of-three portrayed a policeman in an episode of gangster hit Peaky Blinders in 2017, as well as strict teacher Mr. Hamley in Steve McQueen's Small Axe - which has received a BAFTA TV nomination in the Best Mini-Series category.

While he's set to become one of the nation's most in-demand stars, the thespian juggles his life on the screen with parenthood.

Just last month, Nigel and his actress spouse Lainy - who are now based in London - welcomed their third child, a girl, 11 days early.

The Alleycats star announced on Instagram at the time: 'Welcome to the world Cora Rose Boyle. #gooner @lainyboyle is a #hero and Cora looks sooo good in #claretandblue #utv.' (sic)

It is unclear when the couple - who recently starred in a short lockdown-based film called Unmasked - tied the knot.

Lainy has previously appeared in EastEnders as a surgery nurse in 2017, England's Forgotten Queen: The Life and Death of Lady Jane Grey as Mary Tudor three years ago and an 2019 episode of Doctors as Hayley Grant.

On getting his role in Line Of Duty, the performer previously gushed: 'It's an actor's dream to play someone as petty and petulant and annoying as Buckells.

'When I was researching for Line of Duty me and my wife did the whole two series in two days or something like that. Binged it properly. I got the script through and said to my wife - who was my girlfriend at the time - I've got to get this.'

During Monday's This Morning, Nigel said about his children: 'Yes, my newborn is three weeks old. Hopefully she got some sleep [after Sunday's show]! I've got two boys, Finnian and Declan and baby Cora Rose.'

Seasoned fans took to social media in their droves to share their frustrations as officers from the police anti-corruption unit AC-12 discovered the identity of the elusive 'fourth man', who had been colluding with the organised crime group (OCG), was none other than DSU Ian.

The detective was first introduced to viewers in series one when he was appointed as SIO in the case of murdered businesswoman Jackie Laverty by then chief superintendent Derek Hilton.

Interests: The performer pictured recently with an Aston Villa-themed face mask on the set of Line Of Duty

'As Vicky McClure would say, LINES OF DUTY!' The Birmingham native also took an image of his script two weeks ago

Line Of Duty finale: How the viewing figures compare 2021 Line Of Duty finale, May 2 (BBC One) 12.8 million Prince Philip's funeral, April 17 (ITV & BBC One) 13.6 million Harry and Meghan with Oprah Winfrey, March 8 (ITV) 11.7 million 2020 Boris Johnson lockdown announcement, March 23 (BBC One) 14.5 million Queen's address to the nation, April 5 (BBC One) 14 million Boris Johnson's second address to the nation, May 10 (BBC One) 18.7 million I'm A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here!, November 15 (ITV) 12.1 million 2019 Gavin And Stacey Christmas special (BBC One) 17.1 million viewers 2012 Closing ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games (BBC One) 24.5 million 2010 The X Factor (ITV) 17.7 million 1995 Princess Diana interview with Martin Bashir (BBC One) 23 million 1966 The 1966 World Cup final (BBC and ITV joint broadcast) 32.3 million viewers Advertisement

However, the episode's end failed to offer any resolution on whether the fan-favourite team of DI Steve Arnott, DI Kate Fleming and Superintendent Ted Hastings would return, ending on the revelation that the team has 'never been weaker.'

The mystery surrounding the identity of 'H' has been up for speculation since the show was first released in 2012 and detectives at the anti-corruption unit discovered there were four officers working within the force who had links to the underground criminal network.

During Sunday's finale episode , superintendent Ted Hastings, played by actor Adrian Dunbar, was seen asking his colleague Chloe to run checks on the constant misspelling of the word 'definately' which had become synonymous with the 'fourth man' in previous episodes.

A number of checks traced the word back to Buckells who used the misspelling when messaging former undercover officer John Corbett, played by Stephen Graham, in series five.

When confronted with the revelation Hastings was left astounded, asking his colleague: 'Are you sure Chloe?'

After being confronted by Hastings and his team Buckells declared: 'I'm only the one whose made total mugs out of you lot!'.

He also revealed that they would have to offer him immunity or Witness Protection if they wanted him to co-operate.

Pointing out that H did not officially exist as the investigation into corruption had been quashed, he insisted Tommy Hunter, the organised crime kingpin who was a sinister character during the drama's early series, was the leader of the OCG.

Although several viewers were shocked that Buckells turned out to be the Fourth Man, he previously hinted at being H way back in 2017.

Speaking to Digital Spy during series four, Nigel said: 'There's definitely more to Buckells than meets the eye!

'He's very competent, very good at what he does, he's the go-to guy, but he's certainly not a popular guy  he's petulant, and a bit of a jobsworth I think.

'I don't think people give him enough credit, just because of his personality!'
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An eye-watering 12.8million viewers tuned in to watch Line Of Duty's sixth season on Sunday night with a 56.2% share in the overnights - recording the network's highest ever overnight rating.

Fans tuned in to watch the nail-biting series draw to a close - and the mysterious antagonist 'H' was finally unmasked as DSI Ian Buckells, played by Nigel Boyle.

Loyal viewers took to social media in their droves to share their frustrations as officers from the police anti-corruption unit AC-12 discovered the identity of the elusive 'fourth man' - leading to a demand for another series of the show.

Charlotte Moore, BBCs Chief Content Officer, said of a seventh season: 'Addictive event television, Line of Duty has kept the nation guessing for the last seven weeks, so its no surprise that last nights jaw dropping finale set a ratings record...

An eye-watering 12.8million viewers tuned in to watch Line Of Duty 's sixth season on Sunday night with a 56.2% share in the overnights - recording the network's highest ever overnight rating

'Jed Mercurio is a master of his craft, and I would like to congratulate him and the entire cast and crew for delivering such an incredible drama series...

'Im looking forward to having a conversation with the team about where we go next and what the future of the series might be.'

The calls for another series came due to the disappointment and confusion of some of the 12.8m viewers. Star of the show Martin Compston previously said of the possibility: 'The genuine answer is we dont know'.

The revelation the bent copper colluding with the organised crime groups (OCGs), was actually DSI Ian Buckells infuriated many seasoned Line Of Duty fans.

It was at least revealed that the so-called fourth man was actually DSU Ian Buckells, who had been originally imprisoned after appearing to have been framed by Davidson

Viewers were noticeable underwhelmed to learn the identity of the elusive criminal, as the series ended on an ambiguous note

An even longer wait: Like many shows, series six was hit by several delays due to the Covid pandemic, with filming in Belfast halted back in March 2020, just days before the UK was plunged into lockdown

Fans shared their frustrations as officers of the police anti-corruption unit AC-12 discovered the identity of the elusive 'fourth man'

Line Of Duty finale: How the viewing figures compare 2021 Line Of Duty finale, May 2 (BBC One) 12.8 million Prince Philip's funeral, April 17 (ITV & BBC One) 13.6 million Harry and Meghan with Oprah Winfrey, March 8 (ITV) 11.7 million 2020 Boris Johnson lockdown announcement, March 23 (BBC One) 14.5 million Queen's address to the nation, April 5 (BBC One) 14 million Boris Johnson's second address to the nation, May 10 (BBC One) 18.7 million I'm A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here!, November 15 (ITV) 12.1 million 2019 Gavin And Stacey Christmas special (BBC One) 17.1 million viewers 2012 Closing ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games (BBC One) 24.5 million 2010 The X Factor (ITV) 17.7 million 1995 Princess Diana interview with Martin Bashir (BBC One) 23 million 1966 The 1966 World Cup final (BBC and ITV joint broadcast) 32.3 million viewers Advertisement

It saw the words 'fuming', 'disappointing' and 'underwhelming' all trend on social media in the aftermath of the show.

And the disbelief it could be him was compounded by the way he was only caught because of his repeated mis-spelling of the word 'definitely' - hardly the blunder of a hardened criminal mastermind.

The detective - widely thought until Sunday to have been just a bungling stooge - was first introduced to viewers in series one as the SIO in the case of murdered businesswoman Jackie Laverty by then Chief Superintendent Derek Hilton.

He later went on to become Detective Chief Inspector in series four before being promoted once more to Detective Superintendent in this final series.

Sharing their disappointment on the revelation, one disgruntled Line of Duty fan wrote on Twitter: 'Can't believe I watched six seasons of line of Duty for Ian Buckells, the most pointless character to be the fourth man. Fuming.'

While another viewer added: 'I'm fuming, can't believe I waited this long for Ian Buckells to run the roost.'

And while the finale tied up many unresolved storylines, there were still some gaping plot holes and storylines left unanswered.

The sixth series of the Jed Mercurio creation also saw DI Steve Arnott, played by actor Martin, finally called in for a meeting with Occupational Health, who noted that while he had not broken the law through his excessive painkiller use, he would have to surrender his firearms licence.

However, the 60-minute episode's end failed to offer any resolution on whether the team of DI Steve Arnott, DI Kate Fleming and Superintendent Ted Hastings would return, ending on the revelation that the team has 'never been weaker.'

The mystery surrounding the identity of 'H' has been up for speculation since his character was first mentioned at the end of series three, which aired in 2016, and detectives at the anti-corruption unit discovered there were four officers working within the force who had links to the underground criminal network.

Like many shows, series six was hit by several delays due to the Covid pandemic, with filming in Belfast halted back in March 2020, just days before the UK was plunged into lockdown.

Production was finally able to resume in September that year with strict safety guidelines, including the use of studio sets as opposed to real locations, regular testing measures.

Filming for series six finally wrapped in November, with bosses later confirming it would be seven episodes as opposed to the usual six.
Rita Ora wowed fans on social media today as she posed up a storm looking over a balcony wearing a sheer top and flashing her toned stomach.

Taking to Instagram on Monday, the 30-year-old oozed confidence as she stared wistfully over a balcony while flashing her bra under her thin garment.

The music star paired a sheer black ridged top with black bottoms that are just about visible in the pictures.

Rita Ora sent fans wild as she flashes her bra under a sheer black top on Instagram on Monday after being romantically linked to Thor director Taika Waititi

Happy days: As she leant against a glass railing she smiled towards the camera and fans were treated to a glimpse of her bra through her sheer top

Fans were also sent crazy at the sight of the star's bra, with the straps poking through her tumbling locks.

On Rita Ora's right wrist she wore a collection of chain bracelets which paired with her earrings.

The Instagram post appeared to be published as a confidence booster for her fans to start the week.

The caption on her post read: 'Happy Monday everybaaawwddyyyyy.'

Happy Monday: Rita Ora accompanied her black outfit with a selection of bangles and chain bracelets

Wistful: In one of the pictures, posted on her Instagram, Rita Ora was seen staring out thoughtfully from her balcony

Alongside the collection of pictures was a short video showing her turning towards the camera and smiling.

The snaps come after the star was spotted sharing a glitzy meal with celebrity pals on Friday.

Rita Ora was seen alongside her rumoured 'love interest' Taika Waititi, Russell Crowe, Christian Bale, Sacha Baren Cohen and Isla Fisher enjoyed dinner at the Doll restaurant in Sydney.

The music star and Waititi have sparked romance rumours in recent weeks, and on Friday night stepped out at the premiere of Stan's RuPaul's Drag Race Down Under at the Sydney Opera House.

Serious: Not all of the pictures featured a smile though, with this snap featuring a more focused - model-like pose

Close up! The tattoo on Rita Ora's finger was visible in this picture that was included in her Instagram post

They avoided being photographed on the Opera House red carpet together, and appeared very coy indeed when they were spotted sneaking into the venue.

The British pop star, 30, and the New Zealand-born Thor director, 45, entered the Sydney Opera House event together, but were careful to remain a few feet apart.

The outing was the latest in a series of meet-ups between the two, who have reportedly been 'dating for over a month' while the songstress has been in Sydney filming The Voice.

Rita also recently sent fans into a frenzy when she shared an incredibly cosy photo with Taika to Instagram.
Lily James has admitted there is 'a lot to say' about her Dominic West scandal, but insisted now is not the time to divulge.

In October, co-stars Lily and married Dominic, 51, were caught enjoying what appeared to be a racy weekend in Rome, leading to his wife Catherine FitzGerald assuring the public they were fine - but banning him from working with Lily.

The Downton Abbey alum, 32, is now blazing the promo trail for their new series The Pursuit Of Love alone and in an interview with The Guardian, she declined to discuss the media storm - but admitted there is in fact much to discuss.

Oh! Lily James has admitted there is 'a lot to say' about her Dominic West scandal, but insisted now is not the time to divulge

In her interview with the paper, The Guardian asked Lily: 'You found yourself at the centre of a media storm last autumn [due to rumours of an affair with Pursuit of Love castmate Dominic West]. What was that like?'

It was then she came over bashful and declined to discuss, saying: 'Ach, Im not really willing to talk about that. There is a lot to say, but not now, Im afraid.'

Last month, a first look trailer for their drama series, where the two grew close before their scandalous trip away, was released ahead of its upcoming release .

The Emily Mortimer novel adaptation follows the story of Linda Radlett - played by Lily - and her hunt to find love and marriage, while Dominic plays her Uncle Matthew.

Staunch refusal: In October, co-stars Lily and married Dominic, 51, were caught enjoying what appeared to be a racy weekend in Rome, leading to his wife Catherine FitzGerald assuring the public they were fine - but banning him from working with Lily

Wow! The Downton Abbey alum, 32, is currently blazing the promo trail for their new series The Pursuit Of Love and in an interview with The Guardian, she declined to discuss the media storm - but admitted there is in fact much to discuss

The production was filmed between July and October last year, with Lily and Dominic's Italy trip taking place shortly after filming on the period drama wrapped.

It is believed that part of Dominic and Catherine's agreement is that he won't do any promo with Lily for the series, in a bid to save their marriage - which BBC bosses have apparently reluctantly agreed to.

The trailer for the BBC adaptation of the novel opens with a very glamorous Lily wearing a turquoise silk dress and she can be heard saying: 'It's not sexual, it's a meeting of minds.'

Cosy: Dominic and Lily struck up a close bond on set - as fans only need look back a matter of months to recall their Rome rendezvous, as pictures of their cosy trip emerged

The next scene shows her naked larking around in a bath, while her female friend who is sat beside her giggles as Lily spits water at her.

Dominic and Lily struck up a close bond on set - as fans only need look back a matter of months to recall their Rome rendezvous, as pictures of their cosy trip emerged.

In fact, so humiliating were the pictures of her actor husband West cavorting with James that Catherine is said to have banned him from speaking with the actress as part of a peace deal struck between the couple.

Dominic finally won forgiveness for the infamous photographs that showed him flirting outrageously with Lily while on the secret trip.

Saucy! Last month, a first look trailer for their drama series, where the two grew close before their scandalous trip away, was released ahead of its upcoming release

Character: The Pursuit Of Love follows the story of Linda Radlett - played by Lily - and her hunt to find love and marriage, while Dominic plays her Uncle Matthew

However, the MoS was told there are some strict new rules to guide Dominic's future behaviour.

'He has promised never to see, speak or work with Lily again,' said a friend. Also, there are to be no joint promotional interviews for the forthcoming TV adaptation of Nancy Mitford's novel.

This, apparently, has caused surprise among BBC bosses who hope the series will be a ratings triumph, having scheduled it to be screened in the primetime Sunday 9pm slot occupied by Line Of Duty prior to Sunday's finale.

It is thought that despite initial protestations, the BBC has agreed to the Wests' request.

Refuse: In fact, so humiliating were the pictures of her actor husband West cavorting with James that Catherine is said to have banned him from speaking with the actress as part of a peace deal struck between the couple
Tara Pavlovic welcomed her baby son Paddy with husband Nick Shepherdson on Friday.

On Monday, the former Bachelor star, 30, revealed she has taken her little one home from the hospital and is doing well.

'Thank you everyone, we are very happy and healthy over here,' she said in an Instagram Stories video where she cuddled her newborn.

Home: Tara Pavlovic (pictured) welcomed her baby son Paddy with husband Nick Shepherdson on Friday. On Monday, the former Bachelor star, 30, revealed she has taken her little one home from the hospital and is doing well

She added: 'This guy is going to cry for milk any minute, he loves it.'

Tara said the birth, 'went well. I am as good as someone who squeezed a baby out of their vagina can possibly be. It's sore but I'm good'.

The former reality star shared the good news of Paddy's arrival in an Instagram post on Sunday, sharing a sweet photo of her newborn son.

Sweet: 'Thank you everyone, we are very happy and healthy over here,' she said in an Instagram Stories video where she cuddled her newborn

Healthy: Tara said the birth, 'went well. I am as good as someone who squeezed a baby out of their vagina can possibly be. It's sore but I'm good'

She wrote in the caption: 'Welcome to the world Paddy George Shepherdson.

'Words can't describe how beyond in love we are with you. We are so grateful that you arrived happy and healthy and we will love and protect you forever.'

In the image, little Paddy lays alongside an ornate plaque that reveals he was born on April 30, at 2.26pm, weighing in at 3.505 kilos and at a height of 52cm long - with the tot having arrived slightly earlier than expected.

Happy days: Tara and her husband Nick Shepherdson (left) shared the good news of Paddy's arrival in an Instagram post earlier on Sunday, sharing a sweet photo of her newborn son

She wrote in the caption: ' Welcome to the world Paddy George Shepherdson. Words can't describe how beyond in love we are with you. We are so grateful'

Tara revealed she was expecting her first child in October, only a month after she and Nick had married.

She shared a drone clip of the happy couple sitting on a beach while spraying Champagne, with the words written in sand: 'Baby Shep due May 2021.'

Tara and Nick tied the knot in an intimate ceremony in September 2020, after being forced to postpone their wedding in April due to the pandemic.

The beauty rose to fame on Matty 'J' Johnson's season of The Bachelor in 2017.
Daisy Lowe put on a busty display as she enjoyed an al fresco dinner with her boyfriend Jordan Saul and her Maltese dog Monty.

The loved-up pair headed to Greek restaurant Lemonia in Primrose Hill, London, on Sunday evening.

Daisy, 32, who was wearing a furry leopard print jacket and a low-cut top, was seen tucking into her meal and beaming across the table at her beau.

Tucking in: Daisy Lowe put on a busty display as she enjoyed a meal with boyfriend Jordan Saul and Maltese dog Monty at Greek restaurant Lemonia in Notting Hill on Sunday

Family meal: Daisy and her boyfriend Jordan Saul tucked into their meals as the model also fed her dog Monty scraps

The couple took advantage of the easing of lockdown restrictions, enjoying an intimate meal in the outdoor area of the restaurant.

As the weather turned colder the pair opted to put on woolly hats, a grey one for Jordan and black with a bobble on top for Daisy.

The model, who wore her long brunette locks down with her signature fringe, was also seen feeding her little white Maltese Monty who sat patiently at the table with the pair.

Patient pooch: The Maltese dog sat on Daisy's lap throughout the meal, joining the pair for their intimate meal at Lemonia

All smiles: Daisy beamed widely across the table at her boyfriend Jordan, who is the third male suitor she has been linked to since the beginning of lockdown

Wrapping up: The couple wrapped up in big coats, Daisy opting for a furry animal-print jacket and a low cut top for the meal

Eating leftovers: As the evening turned chillier, the pair, who were sat in the outdoor dining area of the restaurant, put on woolly hats - Daisy opting for a black bobble hat as she fed Monty

While they were dining in the outdoor seating area of the restaurant, they were also greeted by Jude Law and Sadie Frost's modelling offspring Rafferty and Iris Law.

The siblings stopped for a chat and Iris was seen reaching out to Monty to give the pup a stroke.

Daisy and boyfriend Jordan's romance was first revealed when they were spotted putting on a PDA-fest in a north London park in July.

Jordan is the third male suitor Daisy has been linked to since the beginning of lockdown and the pair have now been dating for nearly a year.

The animal-obsessed hunk, who works as a new home consultant for an estate agent, and Daisy have packed on the PDA on several occasions.

Model appearance: While they were dining they were also greeted by Jude Law and Sadie Frost's modelling offspring Rafferty and Iris Law

Interesting: An avid traveller, Jordan openly documents his various international adventures, including regular stops in South Africa and plenty of ski trips

An avid traveller, Jordan openly documents his various international adventures, including regular stops in South Africa and plenty of ski trips.

While he doesn't mention his occupation on social media, he's clearly at home with the animal kingdom, sharing pictures of himself cuddling a cheetah and snorkelling in the ocean.

A month prior to Daisy first being spotted with Jordan last July, Daisy was spotted cuddling up to musician Christian Langdon, just weeks after splitting from Jack Penate after a six month relationship.

She found romance with Jack after splitting from Cameron McMeikan, 24. The model even supported Jack on his new album in November.

Daisy and Cameron dated for almost a year before reportedly ending their romance over their six-year age gap. Jack's biggest hit to date is his 2007 song Torn on the Platform, and he has two top 20 albums.

Daisy's previous lovers including The Crown star Matt Smith, 37, Hurts frontman Theo Hutchcraft, 33, and Thomas Cohen, 29, the husband of the late Peaches Geldof.

Deep in conversation: The couple appeared engaged in deep conversation as the enjoyed their meal, to which Daisy wore her long brunette locks down with her signature fringe

Loved up: The couple were first linked with each other in July and their relationship appears to still be strong as they enjoyed their meal on Sunday night

Daisy recently claimed she knew her relationship with one of her ex-boyfriends was over when he told her to lose weight.

Speaking to Mel B on Badoo's The Truth Flirts podcast in October 2019, she said: 'I hadn't been very well, and I was on annoying medication that made me put on a lot of weight.

She said: 'We had been seeing each other for a while but I knew at this point that it was definitely over. He was in a bad mood or whatever, so I was like, "You're in a really bad mood so I'm just going to leave you in here and go shower".

'I got in the shower and because obviously he didn't like that I had said that to him he came into the shower.

'Bearing in mind, I am starkers and showering, he pointed at me and said, "You're so disgusting you need to lose weight so you can get work".

'And I was like, "You know what? We're done. You and me, over, bye!" I was like, "Do you ever think I want to get on top of you again? No thank you".'
He found fame on this year's season of Big Brother, but before appearing on reality TV, Daniel Hayes made a memorable appearance on A Current Affair.

According to a report by The Wash on Monday, the 48-year-old Big Brother villain appeared in an ACA report last year after breaking COVID lockdown restrictions.

Daniel was caught out bragging about crossing the Queensland border on his motorcycle during lockdown.

Scandal: He found fame on this year's season of Big Brother, but before appearing on reality TV, Daniel Hayes made a memorable appearance on A Current Affair. Pictured alongside host Tracy Grimshaw

The controversial real estate agent rode his Harley Davison from Melbourne up to Surfers Paradise, despite state borders being closed at the time.

Daniel had been granted special permission to travel interstate on 'compassionate grounds', which he used as an opportunity to buy a new tyre for his motorbike.

He documented his travels on his YouTube channel, Million Dollar Bogan, which has over 80,000 subscribers.

Flouting the rules: According to a report by The Wash on Monday, the 48-year-old Big Brother villain appeared in an ACA report last year after breaking COVID lockdown restrictions

A Current Affair then picked up the story, with the divisive reality star attracting media backlash.

In a video posted to his YouTube channel at the time, Daniel claimed he'd received 'a compassionate permit' to travel during lockdown.

He then explained that he simply wanted to visit a Harley Davidson dealership in Queensland to change the back tyre on his motorcycle.

Busted: Daniel was caught out bragging about crossing the Queensland border on his motorcycle during lockdown. Pictured on this year's Big Brother

'I've got to get across that border. If I don't get across the border, I am going to crack the s**ts. Probably end up getting arrested,' he said in the video.

Although he was stopped at the Queensland border by police, he was let through, despite the police officer admitting he was concerned he was 'full of the lurgy'.

Daniel promised the police officer he'd be leaving the state the same day, but opted to stay overnight and even got a tattoo at a local tattoo parlour.

Ride on: The controversial real estate agent rode his Harley Davison from Melbourne up to Surfers Paradise, despite state borders being closed at the time

He later told ACA that he had no regrets about flouting the rules, despite Queensland police saying they were conducting an investigation.

'I had a great time. It was wonderful to get out before we got locked down again. I don't feel like I broke the law. I felt that I was honest with him and he let me through,' he said at the time.

Daily Mail Australia has reached out to Daniel for comment.
Much like her elder sisters, she's become a fan favourite on social media for her seemingly endless stream of glamorous snapshots.

And Kylie Jenner stayed true to form on Sunday night, when she uploaded a series of blurry images of herself posing up a storm in a patterned Jean Paul Gaultier gown.

The mother-of-one, 23, looked sensational as he posed next to a luxury SUV in the eye-catching number, which hugged her curves and featured a cutout open back.

Glamorous: Kylie Jenner uploaded a series of blurry images of herself posing up a storm in a patterned Jean Paul Gaultier gown on Sunday night

Boosting her height with a pair of metallic vertiginous heels, the Keeping Up With The Kardashians star accessorised with a small pink handbag and glittering earrings from Lili Claspe.

With her raven tresses styled in voluminous waves, the makeup entrepreneur simply captioned the series of snaps: 'blurry nights.'

Kylie's post comes after she obtained a restraining order against her sister Kendall's alleged stalker, who was arrested after he was caught skinny-dipping in the model's pool in March.

A judge ordered 27-year-old Shaquan King to stay at least 100 yards away from her for three years, according to TMZ.

Colourful: The mother-of-one, 23, looked sensational as he posed next to a luxury SUV in the eye-catching number, which hugged her curves and featured a cutout open back

Stunning: Boosting her height with a pair of metallic vertiginous heels, the Keeping Up With The Kardashians star accessorised with a small pink handbag and glittering earrings

Last month, Kendall was granted her own five-year order of protection from King, which also extends to their mother Kris Jenner.

King managed to get onto Kendall's property in late March, when he proceeded to get naked and jump in her pool.

He also banged on windows in her home before Jenner's private security apprehended him.

While King was arrested by Los Angeles police, his jail stay was brief, reportedly only six hours, due to COVID-19 protocols.

Blurry: With her raven tresses styled in voluminous waves, the makeup entrepreneur simply captioned the series of snaps, 'blurry nights'

A day and a half after his release, he made his way to Kylie's Southern California gated community and was arrested for felony stalking.

King is now forbidden from contacting all three of the Jenner's, 'directly or indirectly, in any way, shape or form.'

He is also forbidden from getting near all of their homes, workplaces and vehicles for the next five years.

King was not present at his hearing with Kendall, who was represented by her attorney, Kate Mangels.

Order: Kylie recently obtained a restraining order against her sister Kendall Jenner's alleged stalker, who was arrested after he was caught skinny-dipping in the model's pool in March

Kendall also received a five-year restraining order from another man, named Maik Bowker, who allegedly planned to drive across the country and buy an illegal firearm to kill both the supermodel, and himself.

She was tipped off to the plan by a Los Angeles Police Department detective and went to court to attain the restraining order, which she was granted.

The star has considerably beefed up her security after both incidents, and has even moved out of her home.

It was reported in late March that she was packing up and leaving her Beverly Hills home because there was too much risk staying there, despite adding more security.

She has since moved to a 'safe location with armed security', and while she has no plans on returning to the home, it's unclear if she's selling it.

Shock: Kendall Jenner (right) also received a restraining order for another man, who allegedly planned to drive across the country and buy a firearm to kill both the model and himself
On Monday's episode of MasterChef, contestant Conor Curran had a rather awkward interaction with judge Jock Zonfrillo.

When dishing up his medium rare steak with pea and mint puree, the Melbourne cook, 27, was so nervous he shook while pouring out his Madeira sauce.

'Look at that shake!' Jock quipped, with fellow judge Andy Allen then asking Conor if he was alright.

Clash: On Monday's episode of MasterChef, contestant Conor Curran had a rather awkward interaction with judge Jock Zonfrillo.

'It's you! Every time you make me so nervous Jock,' Conor shot back, appearing a tad rattled, albeit amused.

Judge Melissa Leong stepped in to settle the situation, telling Conor 'it's okay' in a soothing tone.

In the end, the judges had mixed opinions about Conor's dish, which represented his team in the challenge.

Nervous: When dishing up his medium rare steak with pea and mint puree, the Melbourne cook, 27, was so nervous he shook while pouring out his Madeira sauce

Back and forth: 'Look at that shake!' Jock quipped. 'It's you! Every time you make me so nervous Jock,' Conor shot back

The judges praised the puree, calling it rustic, but raised concerns about the steak being 'a touch over' caramelised.

They called for 'more finesse next time' from the young chef, who ultimately lost to the opposing team.

Conor has proved to be a breakout star on the latest season of MasterChef.

Twitter was quick to erupt in praise for the queer chef, who referred to himself as a 'plant daddy', as he showed his calm approach in the kitchen.

Fans: Conor has proved to be a breakout star on the latest season of MasterChef

Conor was a hit during the introduction clips early in the series, showing a playful side in a piece-to-camera for the show.

'My personality. I don't even know,' he said, beaming. 'I would say my friends say I am loyal and honest and I would say very enthusiastic is a nice way to put it,' he said.

'I'm sure other people think he is a bit too much but I think I am the perfect amount.'

MasterChef Australia continues Tuesday at 7.30pm on Channel Ten
Katie Price left her diamond engagement ring at home on Friday as she and her fiance Carl Woods enjoyed a day out at Thorpe Park.

The former glamour model, 42, beamed from ear to ear as she and her Love Island star partner took to the rides at the Surrey-based theme park wearing casual attire.

Katie opted for a beige hooded jumper which she paired with a green tracksuit bottoms and multi-coloured trainers while she went ring free to ensure her seven-carat diamond did not get lost amid the thrills.

Riding high: Katie Price left her diamond engagement ring at home as she and her fiance Carl Woods enjoyed a day out at Thorpe Park on Friday

Katie paired her casual look with a chunky gold necklace but her diamond, which she has yet to unveil, was left safely at home.

For the theme park trip, Carl also opted for comfort as he wore matching grey tracksuit top and bottoms with a pair of bright white Nike trainers.

The mother-of-five, who has been engaged eight times, pulled some hilarious expressions as she was thrown around by the rides.

The pair tackled some of the park's biggest rollercoasters, smiling together as they waited in the queue to get on.

Ready to go: The pair were seen smiling from ear to ear throughout the day as they hopped on board a variety of different rollercoasters and rides

Brace yourself: For the thrill-seeking day Katie wore a beige hooded jumper with green tracksuit bottoms and multi-coloured trainers

In shock: The pair, who visited the theme park with some friends, looked shaken up after their ride on one of the rollercoasters

On Stealth, which is the UK's fastest rollercoaster and propels riders more than 200ft in the air, Katie appeared to scream as Carl looked red-faced.

The thrill-seeking couple, joined by some friends, also rode a variety of other coasters and adrenaline-filled rides.

Their outing comes after news last week that Carl has put in an offer for a 800,000 property for the TV star and her children to live in while her 'mucky mansion' makeover is completed.

Katie is currently renovating her property and plans to live there with car dealer Carl and her kids when it is completed.

No ring: Katie opted to leave her new seven-carat diamond engagement ring at home for the trip

Brave faces: For the day trip, Carl wore a matching grey tracksuit with a pair of white Nike shoes. Pictured: The pair brace themselves for the next rollercoaster

Child-free fun: The mother of five enjoyed spending the day with her new fiance who proposed to her last month

Waiting in line: Their outing comes after news last week that Carl has put in an offer for a 800,000 property for the TV star and her children

Until then, Katie and her brood will live at Carl's new stunning Essex pad, which he will later rent out in the hopes of turning it into a business venture.

A source told MailOnline: 'Carl has put in an offer on the property but nothing has been accepted yet.'

The huge property has been freshly renovated ahead of their move and boasts three reception rooms, five bedrooms and two bathrooms.

The possible move comes following Katie and Carl's engagement after 10 months together.

Loved up: Katie and Carl announced their engagement late last month as Carl proposed after just 10 months together

Buying houses: Katie is currently renovating her property and plans to move back in with car dealer Carl and her kids when it is completed, meanwhile they are reportedly moving into a 800,000 home he bought for her

Sweet treats: As they entered the park, the pair, carrying drinks and treats, appeared to be assisted by a member of staff wearing a protective visor

Katie has previously spoken of how she loves that Carl makes his own money and bought her ring, unlike some of her previous suitors.

Speaking to OK! Magazine, she said: 'I didn't have to buy my own ring this time!

'It was made from scratch and came out of his own money. He designed it  it's really special. It's like a fairy-tale ring and massive.

'It's like something out of Hollywood. It's more than I could dream of.'

Katie is mum to Harvey, 18, from her relationship with Dwight Yorke. While she welcomed children Junior, 15, and Princess, 13, with ex-husband Peter Andre.

She also shares Bunny, six, and Jett, seven, with ex Kieran Hayler.
Security guards at the exclusive gated community where the Kardashians have homes caught a trespasser looking for the famous family.

At 11pm one night last week, a man drove up to the gates of the Hidden Hills community near Calabasas and told guards he wanted to see the Kardashians, without specifying which one.

Security told him to leave but a short time later the 33-year-old man was spotted walking inside the gated community, having seemingly hopped over a wall, law enforcement told TMZ.

Scare: The Kardashians have been targeted by another trespasser who attempted to see them last week. After security turned the 33-year-old away at the gat, he managed to hop over a fence

Security found him and detained him before L.A. County Sheriff's Department arrested him for trespassing.

TMZ reports that the man didn't make it anywhere near the Kardashian's homes.

Kim Kardashian, 40, as well as mom Kris, 65, and sister Kylie Jenner, 23, all have homes in Hidden Hills. Kourtney, 42, has a property a few minutes away in another area of Calabasas.

Khloe, 36, sold her Calabasas home last year in preparation to move into her new Hidden Hills mega mansion with beau Tristan Thompson. The new property is going to be next-door to mom Kris who is also building her dream home in the gated community.

Leafy: Police found the 33-year-old man walking inside the gated community and booked him for trespassing. The exclusive gated community near the Santa Monica Mountains is home to many actors and celebrities

This comes after Kylie Jenner obtained a restraining order against her sister Kendall's alleged stalker, who was arrested after he was caught skinny-dipping in the model's pool last month.

A judge ordered 27-year-old Shaquan King to stay at least 100 yards away from her for three years, according to TMZ.

Earlier this month, Kendall was granted her own five-year order of protection from King, which also extends to their mother Kris.

Calabasas crew: Kim Kardashian, 40, as well as mom Kris, 65, and sister Kylie Jenner, 23, all have homes in Hidden Hills. Kourtney, 42, has a property a few minutes away in another area of Calabasas

Dream homes: Khloe and Kris are currently building two mega mansions next to each other in the Hidden Hills community

King managed to get onto Kendall's Beverly Hills property in late March, and proceeded to get naked and jump in her pool.

He also banged on windows in her home before Jenner's private security apprehended him.

While King was arrested by Los Angeles police, his jail stay was brief, reportedly only six hours, due to COVID-19 protocols.

A day and a half after his release, he made his way to Kylie's gated community and was arrested for felony stalking.

This comes after Kylie Jenner obtained a restraining order against her sister Kendall's alleged stalker, who was arrested after he was caught skinny-dipping in the model's pool last month. Kylie has a home in Hidden Hills and also one in Holmby Hills

Security scare: King managed to get onto Kendall's property in late March, and proceeded to get naked and jump in her pool. She is seen here in 2019

King is now forbidden from contacting all three of the Jenner's, 'directly or indirectly, in any way, shape or form.'

He is also forbidden from getting near all of their homes, workplaces and vehicles for the next five years.

King was not present at his hearing with Kendall, who was represented by her attorney, Kate Mangels.

Kendall also received a five-year restraining order from another man, named Maik Bowker, who allegedly planned to drive across the country and buy an illegal firearm to kill both the supermodel, and himself.

King is now forbidden from contacting all three of the Jenner's, 'directly or indirectly, in any way, shape or form.' Kylie seen here at one of the family homes in Hidden Hills

She was tipped off to the plan by an LAPD detective and went to court to attain the restraining order, which she was granted.

Jenner has considerably beefed up her security after both incidents, and has even moved out of her home.

It was reported in late March that she was packing up and leaving her Beverly Hills home because there was too much risk staying there, despite adding more security.

She has since moved to a 'safe location with armed security, and while she has no plans on returning to the home, it's unclear if she's selling it.
'Capitol Insurrection' v. Burn, Loot, and Murder riots

By Mark Alexander



A rhetorical question: Why have Democrats and their Leftmedia publicists portrayed the January 6 Capitol riot in a harsh and incriminating light while shining a soft and sympathetic light on the now hundreds of riots by their constituents  those " peaceful protesters " nationwide?

The disparity in this portrayal is evident at many levels, and one must conclude that Democrats have two standards of justice for riots and insurrections  one for their burn, loot, and murder constituents and a much more punitive standard for the Capitol protesters.

If the Capitol riot had been in any other venue, Joe Biden , Kamala Harris , and their legislative tag team, Nancy Pelosi and Chuck Schumer , would have proclaimed it a "peaceful protest."

Democrat Party principals and Republicans universally condemned the Capitol riot (or "insurrection," as Demos labeled it)  Demos because it was associated with Donald Trump and Republicans because they don't have double standards for riots.

Thus, the first riotous double standard: Demos have remained virtually silent about, when not outright supporting, the leftist insurrections across the nation, because those riots serve as constituent-building rallies. Riots fomented by the Marxist Black Lives Matter radicals and the " antifa movement " of self-styled "anti-fascist" fascists are required in order to advance the Demos' " systemic racism " lie  a masterfully crafted BIG Lie .

Recall that Biden and Harris condemned the "racist" Capitol Police. Biden said of how they handled the riot : "Not only did we see the failure to protect one of the three branches of our government, we also saw a clear failure to carry out equal justice. No one can tell me that if it had been a group of Black Lives Matter protesting yesterday, they wouldn't have been treated very differently than the mob of thugs that stormed the Capitol. We all know that's true. And it is unacceptable."

One could argue that Biden's statement was true in the sense that no unarmed protester in a BLM mob has been shot dead by police.

Likewise, Harris piled on : "We witnessed two systems of justice when we saw one that let extremists storm the United States Capitol, and another that released tear gas on peaceful protesters last summer."

The double standard: Democrats condemned the Capitol Police until an officer's death could be used as a political prop, as was the case with Officer Brian Sicknick , at which time their standard shifted in support of the Capitol Police.

The DC Medical Examiner released his finding that Officer Sicknick died of natural cause a full three months after his death, making clear he was not killed by Capitol rioters.

The DCME's finding came after the Demos had relentlessly propagated the myth that Officer Sicknick was murdered by the Capitol mob, based on a BIG Lie by The New York Times that he was bludgeoned to death .

Biden, Harris, Pelosi, and Schumer exploited Brian Sicknick's death and thereby desecrated his memory, using it as political fodder.

Thus, the only Capitol death was that of an unarmed protester, Ashli Babbitt , and the Demos have politicized her death by concealing any and all details of who shot her and why.

Double standard: Unlike every other police-involved shooting outside the Beltway, the circumstances of Babbitt's shooting by a Capitol Police Officer have been sealed from any public scrutiny by DC Democrats.

Since the Capitol riot, there have already been more than 400 people charged with crimes, from trespassing to assault, all of whom are facing significant jail time and penalties. There's no "get out of jail free" bail fund supported by Kamala Harris for these protesters. Nor is there an even marginally comparable arrest of violent rioters in any location across the nation.

Double standard!

And regarding our military Patriots, recall that Pelosi and Schumer arranged special DC military service ribbons  yet another way to use the National Guard units in DC as political props. At the same time, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin was preparing his military-wide "stand-down" order to investigate extremism (Read: "Trump supporters") in the ranks. According to The Hill , "The Defense Department is still scant on details on Austin's decision, which came after he met with Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Gen. Mark Milley and the service secretaries and chiefs on Wednesday morning. Leaders are expected to hold 'needed discussions' with subordinates about extremism in the next 60 days, top department spokesperson John Kirby told reporters at the Pentagon."

Double standard: Given all the National Guard deployments nationwide, remind me which one of those operations led to concern about "extremism in the ranks"?

Another Capitol example... Recall that last June, after Pelosi and Schumer kneeled for George Floyd in the Capitol Rotunda, using his death as a prop in order to ignite their constituents' "summer of rage," we started posting End of Watch tributes honoring police officers killed in the line of duty and asking Pelosi and Schumer why they refuse to take a knee for those officers . Another rhetorical question...

Double standard!

I recently referenced historian Victor Davis Hanson's summary of the leftist violence in the name of Floyd: "torching federal court houses and police precincts, 700 policemen injured, 40 people dead, $4-$5 billion in damages."

Not a word from Biden, Harris, Pelosi, or Schumer, who were too busy condemning cops .

Notably, there were dozens of black men murdered by other black men in the days before and after Floyd's death. Researcher Heather Mac Donald has thoroughly researched the disparity between black and white assailants and victims.

Not a word from Biden, Harris, Pelosi, or Schumer.

One of those murdered was a retired black police captain, David Dorn , who was killed by a black assailant who was looting a pawn shop during one of the St. Louis riots.

Not a word from Biden, Harris, Pelosi, or Schumer.

There has been a significant increase in the murders of Hispanic and Black people in the wake of the Demos' " defund the police " initiatives.

Not a word from Biden, Harris, Pelosi, or Schumer.

Another notable case study of Demo double standards comes to us compliments of Rep. Maxine Waters (D-CA). The chairwoman of the House Financial Services Committee took her congressional entourage to Minneapolis to soak up a considerable share of the mainstream media's Chauvin trial attention ahead of his conviction last week .

Waters, who insisted, "We're looking for a guilty verdict," took it upon herself to tee-up mob violence to keep pressure on the un-sequestered jurors, letting them know that anything short of a guilty verdict would result in severe consequences.

Waters delivered her screed at an anti-police protest: "I'm going to fight with all of the people who stand for justice. ... We've got to stay on the street and we've got to get more active, we've got to get more confrontational. We've got to make sure that they know that we mean business. ... I hope we're going to get a verdict that will say guilty, guilty, guilty. And if we don't, we cannot go away."

Ironically, she requested police escort and protection while in Minneapolis  no double standard there.

Waters has a long and sordid history as a Demo hate-hustler , a black supremacist promoting violence against white people. Long before she was encouraging mobs to harass Trump administration officials back in 2018, she was promoting the Burn, Loot, and Murder mobs in the bloody 1992 Los Angeles riots. Back then, Waters declared, "The fact of the matter is, whether we like it or not, riot is the voice of the unheard."

The fact of the matter is, more than 60 people were murdered during those riots and many more were seriously injured.

As you recall, so strident and offensive were Waters's remarks that the district judge hearing the Chauvin case, Peter Cahill, strongly rebuked her : "I'm aware that Congresswoman Waters was talking specifically about this trial and about the unacceptability of anything less than a murder conviction and talk about being confrontational. ... I wish elected officials would stop talking about this case, especially in a manner that is disrespectful to the rule of law and to the judicial branch and our function."

Cahill, a Democrat who worked for Senator Amy Klobuchar, conceded to Chauvin's attorney, "I'll give you that Congresswoman Waters may have given you something on appeal that may result on this whole trial being overturned."

Oh, and as you may recall, Waters is suing Trump "for inciting violence on January 6th." According to George Washington University legal expert Jonathan Turley , given that Waters is busy inciting violence, she has "now guaranteed that she could be called as a witness by Trump in his own defense against her own lawsuit." Of her accusation against Trump for inciting violence when her own words are far more incendiary, Turley concluded, "That standard cannot be selectively applied to some but not all riots or protests."

You know, you can't have double standards!

Meanwhile, back in the Beltway, amidst calls for Waters's resignation Pelosi was asked if Waters should apologize. She responded, "No, I don't think she should apologize. Maxine talked about confrontation in the manner of the civil rights movement." (See Prof. Turley's conclusion above.)

Apparently, Pelosi and Waters can't comprehend Martin Luther King's central message of peace regarding " the manner of the civil rights movement ." Of course, that message does not build Demo constituencies.

For his part, Joe Biden, a man of deep faith when it fits the narrative, said, "I'm praying the verdict is the right verdict, which is  I think it's overwhelming, in my view."

Mark Alexander is the executive editor of the Patriot Post.
Madonna's daughter Lourdes Leon put on a very busty display as she posed in a cut-away top for her most recent sizzling selfie.

The 24-year-old beauty took to her Instagram stories on Sunday and commanded attention in the snap.

She worked her angles and ensured all eyes would be on her as she posed up in a storm inside a car.

Sizzling: Madonna's daughter Lourdes Leon put on a very busty display as she posed in a cut-away top in her most recent sizzling selfie on Instagram on Sunday

Lourdes' top features slashed details across the chest which drew attention to her ample assets.

The daughter of pop icon Madonna fixed the camera with a pout, and opted for a natural make-up look.

She styled her raven tresses in poker straight and brushed one side back with a blue butterfly clip.

Lourdes finished off the look with chunky gold jewellery, as she accessorised with a pair of giant hoop earrings and a chain necklace.

Sizzling: Lourdes often shares sultry selfie snaps with her 127,000 Instagram followers, and no doubt sent her fans wild with her latest saucy offering

Lourdes recently revealed she has Hollywood ties independent of her mother, as she told Vanity Fair in a rare interview that Oscar-nominated heartthrob Timothee Chalamet was her first boyfriend.

'I respect him (Chalamet) a lot, we were a little item. My first boyfriend,' she said, coyly adding that he was her first 'anything,' though she remained mum on details.

She came in contact with some of tinsel towns rising stars  including Baby Driver star Ansel Elgort  while attending the Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts in Manhattan, where she continued to nurture her creativity.

In her genes: The model-actress proves to have inherited her mom's cheeky cool sense of style (pictured at the Alexander Wang show in New York in 2016)

And though she had her sights set on a 'Big Ten' college experience and began her education at the University of Michigan, she quickly realized she needed to nurture her artistic soul and transferred to the dance conservatory at SUNY Purchase.

With entertaining in her veins, she also shared that she does want to pursue acting at some point, revealing that her dream role would be bringing Mother Teresa to life on the big screen.

She made her modeling debut with Stella McCartney and co-directed the brand's collaboration with Adidas, as she used her dancing background to choreograph a movement inspired campaign before being tapped as Marc Jacobs' latest muse.
Emily In Paris is back.

Star Lily Collins gathered her castmates to tease a taste of the Netflix hit via a cute Instagram video on Monday.

The team gushed about how excited they were to return to the City Of Light, as Collins captioned the post: 'Annnd were back! Beyond excited to officially be back filming saison deux of @emilyinparis!! More to come. A LOT more!'

Back! Lily Collins gathered her Emily In Paris co-stars to announce production on season two has begun in a fun Instagram video on Monday

'Hi guys, I have some very exciting news for you,' the Golden Globe nominee told followers before the scene skipped to Ashley Park and Lucas Bravo.

'Nous sommes de retour,' said Park, who plays Emily's friend Mindy Chen.

She let Bravo, the man behind Emily's crush Gabriel, translate, announcing 'We're back!' which prompted a celebratory dance from Ashley.

William Abadie (Emily's client Antoine Lambert) popped up quickly before Samuel Arnold (Emily's high drama co-worker Julien) told everyone 'I cannot wait to get back on set with everybody!'

Philippine Leroy Beaulieu, who plays Emily's tough boss Sylvie, offered a sing-song message, cooing: 'So excited to go back to set,' while Bruno Gouery, who plays co-worker Luc, said he 'can't wait to see more of Paris.'

Camille Razat - who plays Emily's love rival and the girlfriend of Gabriel - finished things, smiling and telling the camera: 'You can't wait? I can't wait! It's gonna be fun.'

Return: The team gushed about how excited they were to return to the City Of Light, as Collins captioned the post: 'Annnd were back! Beyond excited to officially be back filming saison deux of @emilyinparis!! More to come. A LOT more!'

Love language: Ashley Park and Lucas Bravo told fans they were back en Francais

Hi! William Abadie (Emily's client Antoine Lambert) popped up quickly

Thrilled: Samuel Arnold (Emily's high drama co-worker Julien) told everyone 'I cannot wait to get back on set with everybody!'

Emily In Paris, which was created by Sex And The City's Darren Star, received mixed reviews upon its October 2020 release, with some celebrating the show as good, old fashioned escapism while others critiqued the series for being vacuous.

Rachel Handler at Vulture had a cutting take, writing: 'Darren Star has done it yet again: centered an entire show on a thin, gently delusional white woman whimsically exploring a major metropolitan area in wildly expensive couture purchased on a mid-level salary.'

Emily In Paris faced a bit of controversy after earning a Golden Globe nomination.

Afterwards it was revealed that the show may have wooed members of the Hollywood Foreign Press Association, the voting body behind the awards, with a lavish trip to Paris.

In February the Los Angeles Times reported that 'more than 30' of the HFPA's 87 members were flown out to visit the set of the series while it was filming in 2019.

Serenade: Philippine Leroy Beaulieu, who plays Emily's tough boss Sylvie, offered a sing-song message, cooing: 'So excited to go back to set

Beauty everywhere: Bruno Gouery, who plays co-worker Luc, said he 'can't wait to see more of Paris'

Fun! Camille Razat - who plays Emily's love rival and the girlfriend of Gabriel - finished things, smiling and telling the camera: 'You can't wait? I can't wait! It's gonna be fun'

Drama: Emily In Paris faced a bit of controversy after earning a Golden Globe nomination, with many critics wondering if the escapist rom-com was really awards-worthy

During the trip the group was reportedly treated to two nights at the $1400-a-night, five-star Peninsula Paris hotel as well as a meeting and lunch at the historic and private Musee des Arts Forains, all courtesy of Paramount Network.

Both critics and casual culture connoisseurs were surprised to see Emily star Lily Collins and the series earn nods while things like Michaela Coel's I May Destroy You and Black ensemble casts like Da 5 Bloods, Ma Raineys Black Bottom, Judas And The Black Messiah, and One Night In Miami were overlooked in the main categories.

And even some inside the organization are saying they agree with the criticism.

'There was a real backlash and rightly so  that show doesn't belong on any best of 2020 list,' another member of the HFPA admitted to the LA Times.

'It's an example of why many of us say we need change. If we continue to do this, we invite criticism and derision.'
It's a wrap on production of season four of Netflix hit Cobra Kai in Atlanta.

Fans of the successful drama can start preparing for new episodes because two cast members confirmed that filming of the next season has completed.

Stars William Zabka and Martin Kove, along with series creators Josh Heald and Jon Hurwitz, took to Twitter to talk about ending their three months of shooting on the The Karate Kid sequel series.

That's a wrap! It's a wrap on production of season four of Netflix hit Cobra Kai in Atlanta. Fans of the successful drama can start preparing for new episodes because two cast members confirmed that filming of the next season has completed

'After 3 1/2 months of production, Im proud to say CobraKaiSeason4 is officially wrapped! "Ready???! LETS BEGIN!,"' Zabka wrote alongside two photos of him in martial arts training while clad in a black face covering.

'Tonight, myself and the entire crew of COBRA KAI S4 officially wrapped! What a season, And what a year. A crew that is fearless and shows no mercy, through Covid we pushed on!,' added Kove.

According to a report by Newsweek, the series - that follows the events from The Karate Kid franchise - was rumored to be shooting from January 20th until April 15th.

The news of the fourth season came after Netflix revealed that the third season is on track to become one of the streamer's biggest programs.

Announcement: Stars William Zabka and Martin Kove, along with series creators Josh Heald and Jon Hurwitz, took to Twitter to talk about ending their three months of shooting on the The Karate Kid sequel series

'What a season': 'Tonight, myself and the entire crew of COBRA KAI S4 officially wrapped! What a season, And what a year. A crew that is fearless and shows no mercy, through Covid we pushed on!,' added Kove

The third season of the show was watched by 41 million households within its first month of release; the original premiere date was January 1st.

It also reached the number one spot on the streaming platform in multiple countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom and Greece, among others.

The entire series' viewership currently amounts to 73 million households having watched at least a single episode.

'Ive been riding a pendulum from exhausted to exhilarated (and back again) for the past four months. It feels tremendous to wrap @CobraKaiSeries Season 4 production. But it feels even better knowing that we conquered our most ambitious season yet. This one... well just you wait,' Heald said about the quick turnaround of the next set of episodes.

Massive hit: The news of the fourth season came after Netflix revealed that the third season is on track to become one of the streamer's biggest programs

Big ratings: The third season of the show was watched by 41 million households within its first month of release; the original premiere date was January 1st

'And now we're wrapped,' added Hurwitz.

Cobra Kai is not a stranger to high ratings, as its first episode received over 55 million views upon its 2018 debut.

The series was originally hosted on the video platform YouTube before moving over to Netflix in 2020.

Hulu was also apparently in the running for the show's distribution rights until its competitor in the negotiation process beat it out.

Coming soon: According to a report by Newsweek , the series - that follows the events from The Karate Kid franchise - was rumored to be shooting from January 20th until April 15th

Headlines: The show has made headlines for the enthusiastic return of some of the film series' leads, including stars Ralph Macchio and William Zabka, in addition to supporting cast members such as Martin Kove and Yuji Okumoto

The show has made headlines for the enthusiastic return of some of the film series' leads, including stars Ralph Macchio and William Zabka, in addition to supporting cast members such as Martin Kove and Yuji Okumoto.

In a recent interview with LADbible, Macchio revealed that the producers currently have a six-season plan in place for the series, and that the cast was more than willing to stay in their roles for their viewers.

The actor stated: 'The writers have always felt they had six seasons in their head, where the story arcs can go...You don't want to overstay your welcome, but the fans are having fun and there's more story there. As long as we're allowed to keep doing it, Billy and I are in.'

Zabka also spoke about how he would like to take on an expanded role in the series during its future seasons, although for the time being, he intimated that he was happy to solely be in front of the camera.

Keeping it going: In an interview, Ralph Macchio stated that the production team was happy to keep the series going as long as 'the fans are having fun and there's more story there

Expanded role: Zabka also spoke about how he would like to take on an expanded role in the series during its future seasons, although for the time being, he intimated that he was happy to solely be in front of the camera

'I'd definitely like to write for the show too. But we have our heads pretty full with being in front of the camera. But at the right time, it's definitely a possibility,' he said.

The actor then elaborated on how Cobra Kai was playing a role in a revival of interest in the culture of the 1980s.

'Karate Kid has sustained and grown in pop culture over the decades but there's a real feeling of the sprit of the '80s coming back - music and fashion...It's cool to be a part of that resurgence,' Zabka added.

Cobra Kai is set to return to Netflix in late 2021.
Chloe Sims was forced to make a quick exit from a bar on Sunday night as she risked an awkward run-in with ex Pete Wicks.

The TOWIE star, 38, looked glamorous dressed in a long fur coat as she arrived outside the Jin Bo Law skybar in central London.

However, Chloe quickly turned around and headed home after learning her on-off ex Pete, 32, was inside, and narrowly missed him as he emerged soon after.

In and out: Chloe Sims was forced to make a quick exit from Jin Bo Law skybar in London on Sunday night as she risked an awkward run-in with ex Pete Wicks who was inside

The reality star had pulled out all the stops with her outfit for a night out with her sisters Demi, 25, and Frankie, 27, and friend Bobby Norris, 34.

Earlier in the night the group partied at the Power Suits bar and appeared to be in great spirits as they danced about at the luxury rooftop bar.

Chloe rocked a floor-length champagne satin dress under a cream fur coat and put her own stamp on the look with some metallic cowboy boots.

Awkward! The TOWIE star headed home after learning her on-off ex Pete, 32, was in the bar and narrowly missed him as he emerged soon after (pictured left with James Lock)

Glam: Chloe rocked a floor-length champagne satin dress under a long cream fur coat for the night out and put her own stamp on the look with some metallic cowboy boots

She made sure she looked every inch the beauty queen as she sported a full face of glamorous make-up and styled her caramel tresses in loose waves.

As she arrived outside the Jin Bo Law bar in Aldgate, the star appeared to stop and talk to people milling about outside before turning around and leaving.

Later in the night, her TOWIE co-star Pete was spotted emerging from the bar dressed in skinny jeans, Chelsea boots and a leather jacket.

All dressed up: The reality star had pulled out all the stops with her outfit for a night out with her sisters Demi, 25, and Frankie, 27, and friend Bobby Norris, 34

Change of mind: As she arrived outside the Jin Bo Law bar in Aldgate, the star appeared to stop and talk to people milling about outside before turning around and leaving

The television personality wore his long hair loose, letting it fall around his shoulders and sported sunglasses.

He chatted to pal and TOWIE co-star James Lock before embracing him and heading towards a waiting car.

The near-miss comes after Chloe decided to cut ties with on-off lover Pete around Christmas following a tumultuous romance.

Ex alert: Later in the night, her TOWIE co-star Pete was spotted emerging from the bar dressed in skinny jeans, Chelsea boots and a leather jacket

Saying goodbye: He chatted to James Lock before embracing him and heading towards a waiting car

At the time, Chloe was said to devastated after pulling the plug on her 'friends with benefits' romance her co-star.

She had previously revealed on TOWIE that she had been secretly been seeing the Lothario for two years, before things turned soured between the pair.

And just months later, Chloe unfollowed Pete on Instagram and is said to be heartbroken after he rebuffed her hopes of a relationship when she told him she was in love with him.

The television personality wore his long hair loose, letting it fall around his shoulders and sported sunglasses

It's over: The narrowly-missed encounter comes after Chloe decided to cut ties with on-off lover Pete around Christmas following a tumultuous romance

In December, a source told New Magazine: 'Pete backed off, insisting that as much as he does love her, he just doesnt want to be her boyfriend.

'Chloe was really hurt and this was her breaking point. She decided she cant keep him in her life and so she cut him out.

'Shes devastated because she put her cards on the table and allowed herself to be vulnerable, only to be rejected by him again. It hurts but she knows she cant spend another Christmas feeling lonely and pining for him.'

The insider added their relationship is 'over for good' because Chloe wants to settle down, while Pete is happy single.
Leah Wright was comforted by her pal Saffron Lampiere as they headed back to their hotel after a boozy night out in London on Monday.

The reality TV star was joined by her close friend at the Tower Suites in London, weeks after losing her father Eddie following a lengthy battle with COVID-19.

It also comes after Leah's brother Elliott was devastated to learn that his beloved restaurant in Marbella was ripped apart by a fire, in what he believes was an arson attack.

Comforted: Leah Wright was consoled by her pal Saffron Lampiere as they headed back to their hotel after a boozy night out in London on Monday

Leah could be seen curled up at the table while being comforted by Saffron and another friend, as they headed back to the hotel following drinks at a rooftop bar.

Saffron briefly stopped to embrace another friend after they'd journeyed back to the capital together from drinks with the Wright clan.

Earlier in the day, Leah's cousin Jess took to Instagram to reveal they'd enjoyed a relaxing afternoon of drinks at a rooftop bar alongside her sister Natalya.

Stylish: The reality TV star was joined by her close friend (Saffron is pictured) at the Tower Suites in London, weeks after losing her father Eddie following a lengthy battle with COVID-19

Emotional: Leah could be seen curled up at the table while being comforted by Saffron and another friend, as they headed back to the hotel following drinks at a rooftop bar

Kind: Saffron briefly stopped to embrace another friend after they'd journeyed back to the capital together from drinks with the Wright clan

Tired? Leah seemed to have enjoyed the afternoon drinks with her famous family after months of lockdown restrictions

Need some help? It appeared that she needed a hand from her pals after a boozy afternoon at the rooftop bar

She penned: 'Normal felt so good. Bank holiday fun with my girls'.

It's been a difficult time for the Wright family who were devastated by the death of Leah and Elliott's father Eddie in March.

His passing was first revealed by Elliott on Instagram, with nephew Mark Wright saying he's 'broken to pieces' after Eddie passed away following an eight-week battle with coronavirus.

In a lengthy post, Elliott revealed his father passed away 'peacefully' after battling Covid for two months, just a week after telling followers he'd woken from a seven-week coma.

In April, Eddie was then laid to rest as Mark Wright's mother Carol declared that the family would 'never forget' the patriarch, adding that the family 'miss him everyday'.

Tough: It's been a difficult few weeks for the Wright family after the death of Leah and Elliott's father Eddie (pictured right with his son) in March, following a battle with coronavirus

Tragedy: His passing was first revealed by Elliott on Instagram, with nephew Mark Wright saying he's 'broken to pieces' after Eddie passed away

Devastating: In April, Eddie was then laid to rest as Mark Wright's mother Carol declared that the family would 'never forget' the patriarch, adding that the family 'miss him everyday'

Upsetting: Leah's cousingMark had previously detailed how Covid 'tore his family apart,' after six relatives all battled the deadly virus within days of each other

Mark had previously detailed how Covid 'tore his family apart,' after six relatives all battled the deadly virus within days of each other.

He revealed that as well as his uncle, both his parents - Mark. Snr, 64, and Carol, 60, another uncle Georgie, 62, his grandmother Irene, 85, and his grandfather all tested positive within days of each other despite 'not mixing' together.

Last week, Leah's brother Elliott was also distraught when his beloved restaurant Olivia's was burnt down in what he believes was a targeted attack.

Elliott recently thanked fans for sending him 'thousands' of supportive messages after his restaurant was ripped apart by the devastating fire.

Gutted: Last week, Leah's brother Elliott was also distraught when his beloved restaurant Olivia's was burnt down in what he believes was a targeted attack

'My beautiful restaurant, my dream that I always dreamt of having, that I built six years ago, that was still work in progress, has been completely destroyed, absolutely destroyed,' he said

Upsetting: Video taken by Elliott shows the devastated star walk through the restaurant near Marbella as he says 'someone's come and took my whole dream away'

Moving: Speaking to supporters on Instagram later on, Elliot praised the huge response he had received from fans after revealing the shocking news

Good time? Meanwhile Leah still managed to enjoy some Bank Holiday festivities with her family back in the UK

Video taken by Elliott shows the devastated star walk through the restaurant near Marbella as he says 'someone's come and took my whole dream away'.

Spanish police officers have been charged with carrying out a 'full investigation' into the cause of the blaze, which the reality star has suggested was an arson attack carried out by a 'scumbag'.

Speaking to supporters on Instagram later on, Elliot praised the huge response he had received from fans after revealing the shocking news.

Glammed up: Her cousin Natalya shared a further glimpse at the rooftop drinks session with the entire Wright clan

Standing out! She opted for a tight white vest top and acid wash jeans as she posed for the fun Instagram snaps

'I just want to do a little message to everybody that has been in touch with me since yesterday, since I asked for help,' said the star.

'Thousands upon thousands of messages, it is overwhelming the support you've all given me, I just want to say a massive thank you, it means a lot.'

Elliott however added that he was determined to rebuild the restaurant that had been his family's 'dream' to have.

'I've got a lot more energy today and I'm going to build it and really go for it and everyday is a good day and more of a challenge and I can't wait. So thank you to everyone who has offered to help, I'll try and make you proud, thank you very much.'
Ellen DeGeneres treated herself to a new $181,950 Porsche 950 911 Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition.

The talk show host, 63, showed off her snazzy new ride as she stepped out for coffee in Santa Barbara, California on Monday morning.

Last week, Ellen's ex-girlfriend Anne Heche, 51, shared a video to TikTok in which she claimed that the comedienne didn't want her to 'dress sexy' when they were a couple.

Big splurge: Ellen DeGeneres treated herself to a new $181,950 Porsche 950 911 Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition

Ellen dressed casually for the outing and looked comfortable in a short-sleeved gray top made of sweatshirt fleece with a rounded collar.

She was also wearing charcoal gray velour sweatpants with a drawstring waist and large front pockets. The sweatpants featured a tapered leg with cuffs right above the ankles.

Her relaxed footwear consisted of beige and tan Nike sneakers with the brand's signature swoosh in bright orange splashed across the sides.

Comfy: Ellen dressed casually for the outing and looked comfortable in a short-sleeved gray top made of sweatshirt fleece with a rounded collar

The former Academy Awards host added a gold chain necklace and tucked aviator sunglasses with olive-colored lenses into the collar of her shirt.

She sported a silver watch with a large black face and a denim blue face mask with a red pattern as she headed out on her errand.

Ellen wore her cropped blonde hair tousled in her trademark laidback style while opening the door of her luxury vehicle.

Nice rides: Ellen is known for being a longtime Porsche enthusiast and her car collection is said to be worth over $1.5 million. With a net worth of $370 million, the star can easily afford her new Porsche's expensive price tag

The maroon classic convertible by the German automaker looked like it had just rolled off the assembly line. The Heritage Design Edition is a limited-run package that was released a few weeks ago.

Ellen is known for being a longtime Porsche enthusiast and her car collection is said to be worth over $1.5 million. With a net worth of $370 million, the star can easily afford her new Porsche's expensive price tag.

Her ex-girlfriend Anne Heche, 51, caused a stir last week when she accused Ellen of being bossy when they were a couple.

The actress, who dated the DeGeneres from 1997 until 2000, brought up a throwback image of the pair posing at the 1998 Golden Globes ceremony, which saw the screen star sport a velvet duster coat.

'Why do I look like a hippie?' Anne Heche has claimed her then-girlfriend Ellen DeGeneres (pictured in 1998) didn't want her to 'dress sexy' in a bizarre video shared to TikTok on Tuesday

Insisting she wasn't a fan of the look, the Another World icon said: 'Why do I look like a hippie? It's because Ellen didn't want me to dress sexy.'

The performer went on to flash a thumbs down as she gave the appearance a zero out of 10.

Anne had previously discussed their relationship in an interview with Mr. Warburton magazine, after scandal erupted last summer when some of Ellen's ex-employees alleged that her show was a hostile workplace.

'I haven't spoken to Ellen in years,' she said. 'I'd listen to the people who have.

'If I'm standing someplace and I don't like what's going on there and I stay there, it's my fault,' Anne remarked. 'So what are the actions that got me there and why can't I get out of it easily if that's not something that I want to be engaged in?'

Not a fan! The actress, 51, brought up a throwback image of the pair posing at the 1998 Golden Globes ceremony, which saw the screen star sport a velvet duster coat

'Ellen is standing where she walks, and that is hers to continue that journey.'

Shortly after the couple dated, the director tied the knot to Coley Laffoon, while the talk show presenter started a relationship with her now-wife Portia de Rossi.

Anne's divorce from the cameraman was finalized in 2009, two years after they initially ended their romance.

The blonde later started dating Men In Trees co-star James Tupper in 2007, before they split in 2018.

Former flame: The TV and film star dated the host, 63, from 1997 until 2000

Moved on: Shortly after the couple dated, the talk show presenter started a relationship with her now-wife Portia de Rossi (pictured in 2020)

The ex files: The director tied the knot to cameraman Coley Laffoon a year after breaking up from Ellen, but their divorce was finalised in 2009 (pictured in 2004)

In the clip, Anne, who is currently dating actor Thomas Jane, critiqued many of her iconic looks - starting with the red outfit she wore to the Fashion Awards in 1998.

'Presented with P. Diddy! Excuse me, yes, red is gorgeous in Prada,' Anne exclaimed, rating it a seven out of 10. The mother-of-two gave her second look, a sexy silver dress, a 8 out of 10.

Her highest rated look was the Randi Rahm dress she wore to the HBO Emmys after-party in 2017.

The TV and film star enthused: 'Hello excuse me Versace! Yes! And it was Oscars, yes! And it was with Gregory doing my makeup, ding!'

'Excuse me, yes!' In the clip, Anne, who is currently dating actor Thomas Jane, critiqued many of her iconic looks - starting with the red outfit she wore to the Fashion Awards in 1998

Thumbs up! The mother-of-two gave her second look, a sexy silver dress, a 8 out of 10

'It didn't work!' One of her least favorite looks was a semi-sheer black dress she wore to the 2004 Met Gala, which she teamed with curly hair

One of her least favorite looks was a semi-sheer black dress she wore to the 2004 Met Gala, which she teamed with curly hair.

Anne, who gave the outfit a two out of 10, commented: 'Okay so the theme was Dangerous Liaisons so my hair was explosive and by the way it rained, and it was frizzy and by the way didn't work.'

Her final look was the plunging LGBT-themed dress she wore for her final dance on Dancing With The Stars last year.

Giving the look a 'rainbow' out of 10, Anne shared: 'What better time to have you go inside out, upside down and backwards... I am the flag. Dancing with the Stars!'

'10/10!' Her highest rated look was the Randi Rahm dress she wore to the HBO Emmys after-party in 2017
Thank the stars for Tv  the one force that still has the power to bring the nation together.

On Sunday night, as the BBC1 police thriller Line Of Duty finally revealed the bent copper at the heart of its web of corruption, up to 13 million Brits were glued to their sets . . . at the same moment.

Whatever you thought of that finale  and many applauded it as subtly ingenious, while others denounced it loudly as a letdown  it achieved its purpose. We're all still talking about it.

There's a magical sense of community in knowing that millions of us are watching together. Every gasp of surprise and grunt of puzzlement is echoed across the land.

Bob Hoskins and Cheryl Campbell in the television programme Pennies From Heaven in 1978

Actor Dan Stevens in the ITV acclaimed period drama series Downton Abbey

Actors David Tennant and Olivia Coleman in the ITV thriller Broadchurch

No other medium can do that. It's true that lockdown has seen us rediscover the joys of radio and reading, and more people than ever are hooked on podcast serials and streaming video shows.

But we experience those stories individually, drop by drop  not in a great tidal surge together, as we do with live telly. And it's been that way for more than half a century.

The national fascination with Line Of Duty is no different to when we were all still watching in black-and-white, in 1967.

The country was divided by Soames's domineering treatment of his wife (Eric Porter and Nyree Dawn Porter) in The Forsyte Saga. That provoked arguments in homes and offices that made Brexit look like a wry difference of opinion.

Or a decade later when almost everyone was mesmerised by Bob Hoskins and Cheryl Campbell in Dennis Potter's mini-series Pennies From Heaven in 1978.

In 1980, normal life all but came to a halt as in our millions we turned in to the glossy soap Dallas, to find out Who Shot J.R. (Larry Hagman). Insiders refer to shows like this as 'appointment-to-view TV'  the ones we are so determined to see, we clear our diaries.

And they remain as highpoints for years. You might think you don't remember anything special about Christmas 2012 . . . until you realise it was the night Cousin Matthew (Dan Stevens) suffered his fatal car wreck, moments after becoming a father in Downton Abbey.

Downton's forerunner was Upstairs Downstairs, with Gordon Jackson as the stiff-necked butler and Nicola Pagett as the family's flighty daughter, Elizabeth.

Stars Sarah Lancashire and James Norton in the British crime drama Happy Valley

Keeley Hawes and Richard Madden in the BBC crime drama Bodyguard

The Night Manager with Tom Hollander, Olivia Colman, Elizabeth Debicki, Tom Hiddleston and Hugh Laurie

The sense of scandal that gripped Britain in 1972, when Elizabeth's sexually repressed husband handed her over to a friend so she could conceive a child, can hardly be exaggerated.

Now, it's mainly crime (though not always) that brings us together in breathless anticipation. Broadchurch in 2015 did it, when DS Ellie Miller (Olivia Colman) broke down as she learned who killed her best friend's son.

You could add to that list James Nesbitt in The Missing, Sarah Lancashire in Happy Valley, Hugh Laurie in The Night Manager, Reese Witherspoon and Nicole Kidman in Big Little Lies  superb actors in cunningly constructed compelling dramas.

And the 2019 Christmas special of Gavin & Stacey delivered what every fan of the series had wanted to see  although it was Nessa going down on one knee to propose to Smithy (Ruth Jones and James Corden) rather than the other way round.

That episode was watched by 17.1 million people, the most for any scripted, ie non factual, show of the decade.

On Sunday, more than half the entire viewing audience  56.2 per cent of everyone watching TV  was tuned in.

The average figure of 12.8 million viewers surged at one point to 13.1 million, the biggest for any crime drama in 20 years.

The fact that this was by no means one of the show's better episodes (or even series) was irrelevant. Kelly Macdonald as DCI Jo Davidson was neither a likeable nor credible officer  unlike predecessor Keeley Hawes as DI Lindsay Denton, who could be brutal, obnoxious and vulnerable all in one breath.

We were watching because we were finally going to find out the solution to the mystery.

For ten years we'd seen the dogged sleuths of AC-12 turning over stones to expose layers of squirming corruption.

At last, they had a chance to get their man (or woman)  the fabled 'H'. There's a huge expectation in any long-running story that the writer will bring all the threads together. Every loose end will be tied off, every question answered, every detail revealed to be significant.

Lucy Davies and Martin Freeman as Dawn and Tim in the British comedy The Office

James Corden and Ruth Jones in the much-loved British comedy Gavin and Stacey

Patrick Duffy, Victoria Principle, Charlene Tilton, Barbara Belle Geddes, Larry Hagman and Linda Gray in Dallas

Done well, there's nothing more satisfying than the climax of a shared Story.

It has been a human pleasure since the dawn of language, the act of gathering around the storyteller in silence.

Art of an ending Game of Thrones ran for eight seasons The longer the series, the more desperate we become for a great conclusion. But which ones left us fulfilled and which ones were simply frustrating? MISS Game Of Thrones: The finale of this blood-drenched fantasy's first season was staggering. It sent millions reeling to bed, unable to believe what they'd seen. The climax of the third season topped even that. So the damp squib that brought the story to an end felt like an outright betrayal. Eight seasons, 2011-2019. HIT Blackadder: Rowan Atkinson's historical comedy took a year or so to get into its stride, but gradually evolved to give us some of the best-loved characters in sitcom  especially Tony Robinson as Baldrick. The final episode, in the trenches of World War I with the characters sent 'over the top', broke the nation's hearts. Four seasons, 1983-1988. MISS The Undoing: For a show that was worth watching for Nicole Kidman's wardrobe alone, it's a shame that the creators didn't dress up the ending a little more. The big twist was . . . there was no twist. One season, 2020. HIT Breaking Bad: This took the smalltown tragedy of a cancer-stricken teacher, whipped it up into an international criminal enterprise, added confusing backstories and characters, and wiped the slate clean with an ending that made sense. Five seasons, 2008-2013. MISS House Of Cards: The 1990 original, with Ian Richardson as a scheming chief whip in the Commons, had all Britain agog. The U.S. remake with Kevin Spacey as a murdering presidential candidate was already falling apart when the star was accused of sex crimes. His character was abruptly killed off. Then Donald Trump arrived, and made it all look tame. Six seasons, 2013-2018. HIT The Sopranos: The greatest gangster serial ever screened Every scene, every line of dialogue in this show resonates and re-echoes. Everything means so much more than it seems. And then, that ending . . . Six seasons, 1999-2007 MISS Lost: Possibly the most controversial ending of any TV series. The drama, about a group of plane crash survivors stranded on an island, had multiple supernatural elements. Fans argued endlessly over what it all might mean. They could agree on only one fact: they didn't like it. Six seasons, 2004-2010. Advertisement

Neil Gaiman, who created TV hits including Good Omens and American Gods, says the most powerful human instinct can be summed up in four words: 'And Then What Happened . . ?'

It's the question that will lure us back to Line Of Duty if the series ever returns  regardless of whether we thought the denouement was worth all that effort.

I found it a crashing disappointment. The revelation that slow-witted DCI Ian Buckells (Nigel Boyle) was the copper feeding information to organised criminals came as no surprise.

Writer Jed Mercurio was making a valid point  most criminals are stupid and mastermind villains exist only in Sherlock Holmes stories.

But we didn't stay glued for 37 hour-long episodes in the hope of being rewarded with a mundane observation from an essay by a psychology undergraduate.

We expected to be shocked, delighted, horrified, bamboozled, dumbstruck . . . and for me Line Of Duty did not deliver. And I'm not alone.

Novelist Marian Keyes tweeted: 'Like, NO! I've never felt so let down.' My colleague Piers Morgan, punning on the show's infamous, misspelt clue, called it: 'Definately a tad underwhelming.'

And Peter Andre, who was 'beyond buzzing' before the finale, was sadly deflated. 'Is that it?' he groaned.

By the way, that in itself is a remarkable achievement.

No other artform ever invented could unite a bestselling writer, a heavyweight columnist and a 1990s heart-throb, along with about 13 million other people, in a simultaneous obsession.

We've been lucky enough to experience this several times in the past few years  with another Mercurio production, for example, Bodyguard, which in 2018 had the nation by the throat from its explosive opening scene.

Off-duty policeman Richard Madden talked a suicide bomber out of destroying a crowded train, and we were hooked.

Another series is planned, though filming has yet to begin  and a further two seasons might follow.

We don't worry that Bodyguard's ending was also forgettable.

The climax earlier this year of The Undoing, with Nicole Kidman and Hugh Grant, was also not much cop  most people (and I don't mean this nastily) were hoping to see Hugh hurl himself to his death from a bridge, not hand himself in meekly to police.

But for every disappointment, there's an ending that leaves us wonderstruck.

No one could have predicted that Ricky Gervais's mock-documentary The Office would rise to a joyous, almost inspirational conclusion.

Yet the memory of the romance between salesman Tim and receptionist Dawn, and that hint of redemption (and love) for clueless boss David Brent, can't fail to generate a smile.

It's enough that every show offers the possibility, the hope, of a stunning denouement . . . and many deliver.

Who knows when the next one will arrive? I can't wait.
Television presenter Ajay Rochester has spoken candidly about raising a child with Asperger syndrome.

The former host of The Biggest Loser, 52, told New Idea this week she and her son Kai, 21, have certainly faced some difficulties together over the years.

Ajay said she'd always 'expected' to provide for her son well into adulthood because of his condition, but was beyond 'proud' of him after he landed a well-paid job.

Candid: Television presenter Ajay Rochester told New Idea this week she and her son Kai, 21, have faced some difficulties together over the years because of his Asperger syndrome

'I've been paying his bills for years and keeping him in a house and frankly, I expected to be doing that for some time,' Ajay said.

She explained that Kai had moved to Australia from LA - where he'd spent much of his childhood - in 2019, but struggled to find work after applying for over 100 jobs.

But he has now landed a position as a video-editing assistant for a television network and is thriving and 'living an independent life'.

Proud: Ajay said she'd always 'expected' to provide for her son well into adulthood because of his condition, but was beyond 'proud' of him after he landed a well-paid job

Struggles: She explained that Kai had moved to Australia from LA - where he'd spent much of his childhood - in 2019, but struggled to find work after applying for over 100 jobs. But he has now landed a position as a video-editing assistant for a television network and is thriving

What is Asperger syndrome? Asperger syndrome (or Asperger's) is a developmental disability on the autism spectrum

It is typically diagnosed in childhood

People with Asperger's can be incredibly intelligent but find social interactions difficult

Repetitive behaviour is common for people who have Asperger's Source: Health Direct Advertisement

'Raising a child with Asperger's, you learn to have different benchmarks to other kids - you really can't compare milestones,' she said.

But she added: 'I've never let our issues or worries get in the way of our life.'

In December last year, Ajay followed her son to Australia after almost a decade of living in California.

She told The Daily Telegraph she'd returned Down Under because she was sick of the lockdown in Los Angeles.

'I spent 10 months in my apartment locked up, like a self-imposed prisoner terrified of this virus while millions of others go about doing what they want and it just spiraled out of control,' she said.

'I just knew I had to go. I had this gut feeling. People here don't realise how lucky they have it.'

Ajay, who hosted weight loss show The Biggest Loser from 2006 to 2009, had relocated to the U.S. in 2010.

Her most recent TV appearance was on I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! in 2019, but she now mostly works behind the scenes as a casting agent.
Loose Women is once again transforming into Loose Men for the day.

Following the success of last year's all-male special, the ITV programme will once again swap out the Loose Ladies and feature only men for the day.

Next Thursday's show will see Richard Madeley anchor the programme alongside panellists Jordan Banjo, Robert Rinder and Martin Kemp.

Loose MEN! Loose Women will once again swap out the ladies and feature only men for the day, with next Thursday's show seeing Richard Madeley anchor the programme

Coinciding with Mental Health Awareness Week, the all-male all-star panel is the next phase of Loose Women's Stand By Your Men mental health campaign which, alongside ITV's Britain Get Talking campaign, urges men to open up and seek help when needed.

The episode follows on from last year's Loose Men episode, which saw Marvin Humes, Ronan Keating, Iain Stirling and Roman Kemp sit on the all-male panel to mark International Men's Day.

As well as discussing mental health, the tools they use and their own personal experiences, the foursome will be delving into hot topics and taboo talking points in true Loose style.

Robert joked: 'I've faced many courtroom battles in my lifetime but, while I've been a guest plenty of times, nothing can prepare me for becoming a Loose Man on an all-male panel!'

Jordan said: 'I'm a big fan of the Loose ladies but I'm excited to turn the tables and see what can happen when the men are in charge!'

Richard Madeley said of his upcoming gig: 'After the success of the first Loose Men I jumped at the chance to anchor the next instalment.

'It's no secret that men find it harder than women to speak about our emotions so I'm looking forward to finding out what happens when us guys open up about things we usually shy away from.'

Meanwhile Robert joked: 'I've faced many courtroom battles in my lifetime but, while I've been a guest plenty of times, nothing can prepare me for becoming a Loose Man on an all-male panel!'

Ready for it: Martin - whose son Roman appeared on last year's Loose Men said, 'I always love being on Loose Women and I can't wait to get on the Loose Men panel to give my opinions '

Jordan said: 'I'm a big fan of the Loose ladies but I'm excited to turn the tables and see what can happen when the men are in charge!

'It's going to be a tough act to follow but along with Richard, Rob and Martin I'll be doing my best to do them all proud. I can't wait!'

Martin - whose son Roman appeared on last year's Loose Men said: 'I always love being on Loose Women and I can't wait to get on the Loose Men panel to give my opinions on the stuff that really matters.'

Loose Men airs Thursday May 13 at 12.30pm on ITV and ITV Hub.
Despite earning the admiration of Churchill and being commemorated by a statue in central London, Sir Arthur 'Bomber' Harris remains the most controversial British commander of World War II.

Yet his family have been staggered by the accusation made by bestselling U.S. author Malcolm Gladwell in his latest book that Harris was 'a psychopath'.

And now they have come out fighting.

Breaking the family silence, Harris's grandson, Tom Assheton, a former Household Cavalry officer, tells me: 'Never think that my grandfather's pugnacity equated to lack of feeling.

Sir Arthur 'Bomber' Harris remains the most controversial British commander of World War II

'He was someone who understood that war was terrible  and understood evil, as embodied by Hitler.'

Deriding what he describes as 'armchair air marshals' like Gladwell, Assheton laments that the American displays little understanding of Sir Arthur.

'I knew my grandfather. He was much more grounded than this murderous person who wanted to turn Germany into a pile of rubble and flame,' says Assheton, 57.

'Canon Collins, who later helped found CND, was a cousin of his. He was a wartime RAF chaplain.

'My grandfather didn't boot him out [of the RAF]. He was quite prepared to have a discussion with anyone about what was right or wrong.'

Harris's attitude towards conflict was determined by his experiences in World War I, adds Assheton.

'He flew over Passchendaele in 1917, seeing the soup of mud and ground-up bodies. It made a very strong impression on him.

His family have been staggered by the accusation made by bestselling U.S. author Malcolm Gladwell

Harris earned the admiration of Churchill and was commemorated by a statue in central London

'He wanted to be a farmer in Africa but spent the next 30 years serving his country.

'He wanted to finish the war as quickly as possible . . . and the bombing campaign meant that a million able-bodied Germans were committed to air defence and couldn't join the land battle against the Allies.

'There is no glory in war. My grandfather knew that better than anyone.'

Assheton, who co-presents the podcast Bloody Violent History with James Jackson, is intent on emulating his grandfather  in one respect at least.

'I'm taking flying lessons this summer,' he explains. 'I've got his old goggles. Just dusted them off . . .'

Princes William and Harry may scarcely be talking any more, but their mother's wedding dress designer, Elizabeth Emanuel, is delighted she's helped them find one thing on which they can agree.

They've allowed Princess Diana's bridal gown to go on display at Kensington Palace for the first time in 25 years, and Emanuel tells me: 'It's wonderful they're together on this because the dress is still so popular, even after all of these years.'

She believes the Netflix hit The Crown has whipped up huge interest in the gown, which features a 25ft train and 10,000 pearls: 'Lots of people have seen The Crown and now they'll get to see the real thing.'

First role and Joan's a beauty

Dame Joan Collins is celebrating a significant showbusiness milestone this month

Evergreen actress Dame Joan Collins is celebrating a significant showbusiness milestone this month  the 70th anniversary of her first speaking screen role in the 1951 comedy film Lady Godiva Rides Again, featuring Diana Dors and Dennis Price.

Joan did not play Lady Godiva but had a small role as a beauty queen contestant  as did Ruth Ellis, who years later was convicted and executed for murder.

'The immortal line was 'I forgot my lipstick',' recalls Dame Joan. Not something she has ever been guilty of doing in real life.

The movie was made nearly 15 years before her current husband Percy Gibson, 56, was born.

Dr Who's Peter Capaldi, who stars in the forthcoming blockbuster The Suicide Squad, thought working life in the U.S. was going to be a beach.

'I didn't know Atlanta, and everyone said, 'We're going to the beach this afternoon'.

I thought: 'That sounds like a lovely Hollywood-type lifestyle. Then I realised there isn't really a beach in Atlanta, because it doesn't have a coastal element. It was in the studio.'

Ralph gets Mandy on side, relatively

Lord Mandelson has put in his tuppenceworth in Thursday's by-election at his old constituency of Hartlepool.

He has spoken with some warmth about property entrepreneur and independent candidate Ralph Ward-Jackson.

'He was asked about the 'third force' in Hartlepool politics,' Ward-Jackson, whose great- great- great uncle was MP for West Hartlepool, tells me.

'He mentioned my ancestor and said that, if people were fed up with the main parties, they could vote for me  adding that I have much closer links to the town than the Conservative candidate. He could have added 'and the Labour candidate'.'

Marriage has transformed Oscar-winning writer Sir Tom Stoppard, who admits he struggles to survive even a day without his third wife, Sabrina Guinness, whom he wed in 2014.

'I lived on my own for a long time and I was never lonely  not for five minutes. I'm more vulnerable now,' says the 83-year-old playwright.

'Sabrina went to London for a doctor's appointment the other day and I felt miserable to be left for 24 hours. It didn't seem enough to have thousands of books I could turn to.'

Shark tale to make India's jaw drop

India Hicks (left), plucked up the courage to swim with the sharks (right) at the weekend

Prince Charles's fearless goddaughter, India Hicks, is not afraid to swim with sharks and reveals that she plucked up the courage to dive with them at the weekend.

'Diving with Tiger Sharks? Not on my bucket list. It was on my cousin's. Somehow, I ended up on his trip,' explains the entrepreneur, 53, who was a bridesmaid to Lady Diana Spencer.

'Yes, they are wild creatures, but it's all very professionally handled, I was reassured.'

The mother-of-five, who lives in the Bahamas, managed to keep the sharks at bay. 'I was hand-rubbingly enthralled by this adventure. It was quite something.'

Jagger finds inspiration as he queues for the jab!

Are the Jagger brothers turning into freedom fighters?

Sir Mick recently released Eazy Sleazy, a blistering attack on lockdown, and now younger brother Chris, 73, has unveiled Waiting In Line  a track he wrote after queuing up for the Covid vaccination  from his forthcoming album.

Like Mick, Chris is no anti-vaxxer, and sings: 'I guess it's gonna be/Worth the price/For getting on/With the rest of my life'. Which, in Chris's case, means spending more time with his 14 grandchildren.

'I did some home schooling with one of them, Marley,' Chris tells me. 'I was teaching him blues harmonica  and Shakespeare, learning 'to be or not to be'.'

Big day for Mackintosh's little sweetie

Millie Mackintosh hosted a pink-themed party at her home in West London, to celebrate her daughter Sienna's first birthday

ConfectionEry heiress Millie Mackintosh, whose family invented the nation's favourite Quality Street, has wasted no time introducing her daughter Sienna to the sweeter things in life.

The 31-year-old hosted a pink-themed party at her home in West London, which she shares with her husband, former Made In Chelsea co-star Hugo Taylor, to celebrate their little girl's first birthday.

She hired an events company to dress up their kitchen with adornments including pink balloons, a mini teepee and a large two-tier pistachio floral cake.

'Sienna's first birthday was such a special day,' says Millie, who, like Hugo, dressed up in pink for the occasion.
Democrat dystopia By Robert T. Smith

The long-time Democrat party-controlled areas of our country are in a state of dystopia. Lack of a decent educational system, corrupt government agencies, promotion of government dependency, catch and release of criminals back into the communities, destruction of the nuclear family structure, ad infinitum, are the hallmark of the Democrat Partys handiwork. A new feature of Democrat dystopia is the lawlessness, burning, looting, murder that are not just tolerated, but tacitly Democrat-approved in cities such as Portland, Seattle, New York, Minneapolis, among others. The Democrats promise to minority communities is that they will provide utopia, if only they will vote for their political party. Time and again for over half of a century, the promises are made, the votes are delivered, and time and again only dystopia is provided. The dehumanizing hard life on the Democrat plantations should not be what caring, compassionate people desire for their fellow citizens. Caring people know that a mother and father are the gold standard for the nuclear family, regardless of what the likes of it-takes-a-village Democrats and Marxist BLM activists believe. Caring people understand the value of a good education, not the deficient schools that the Democrats run, where the class average GPA is 0.13 (search-engine this Baltimore example). Caring people are concerned that a mother cannot allow her kids to play in front of their apartment home because they may be harmed by criminals; gang activity, robbery, murders, drug deals and the like. Caring people are concerned that an elderly couple sitting in their home feels the need to put as many walls between themselves and the street to avoid being hit by a stray bullet fired by the same mentioned criminal activity. The desire or hope of America is that everyone should be able to enjoy life in a peaceful community. Caring people see the value in a lawful, peaceful society. The Democrats and their current activist alphabet soup of fellow travelers seem most concerned over the criminals when they interact with law enforcement, not the innocent citizens who live in these communities that are the direct or indirect victims of these criminals. We as a society hire police in order to attempt to obtain that peaceful community for all. We send the police to the areas of higher lawlessness in hopes of providing the innocents in that area with that same peaceful community that others enjoy. Inevitably, the police interact with criminals in these areas more than in other areas. There are no protests, burning or looting in response to the weekly deaths of mostly African-American people in the long-controlled areas of our country, Chicago, New York, and many other cities that have over a long period of time continued to have violence, lawlessness, and African-Americans killed by their neighbours in their communities. The current activists and associated Democrat fellow travelers seem unconcerned over these minority deaths. Are these deaths any less important than those criminals who interact with the police? We hire the police, train them, and arm them to maintain an orderly society. Is every policeman a good person, do the police always respond to every situation appropriately, no and no. This could be said for every portion of our society, every profession, or organization. Does anyone kneel, protest, burn or loot in response to African-Americans who are killed by other African-Americans? Apparently, all black lives do not matter to the Democrats and African-American activists. As a general fact, if the police that society hired to maintain the peace tell you that you are under arrest, there is a choice that is completely up to you. You can be under arrest the easy way, or you will be put under arrest the hard way. Fighting, or otherwise trying to evade this arrest violently will typically not end well. Everyone knows this, but this simple fact seems missing in the commentary on many of the incidents that we observe on the news. In general, the police will interact violently with every person who attacks them with a knife or shoots at them with a gun, regardless of their color. Our country was founded on the principles of individual life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, the American dream. Caring people have concern over their individual fellow citizens and would like to see them live the American dream in peace. The dystopia of the long-term run Democrat areas of our country is the antithesis of the American dream. Robert T. Smith is an environmental scientist who spends his days enjoying life and the pursuit of happiness with his family. He confesses to cling to his liberty, guns and religion, with antipathy toward the arrogant ruling elites throughout the country. Home
If you paid a Utility Users Tax to the City of Palo Alto as part of your telephone bill, your rights may be affected by a class action settlement
"Red tourism" a hit for May Day holiday travel

Xinhua) 09:56, May 03, 2021

Photo taken on May 1, 2021 shows tourists visiting the former site of Zhazidong detention house in southwest China's Chongqing Municipality. (Xinhua/Huang Wei)

Twelve-year-old Zhou Xinyue planned the May Day holiday trip for her family. Instead of going to the beach, she chose four revolutionary sites in south China's Guangdong Province.

"I've heard my classmates talking about the East River Column, but I don't know much about its history, so I wanted to visit the memorial to learn about it. My parents and elder brother were happy to join me," she said.

Revolutionary sites have become a travel hit during the May Day holiday. As of 3 p.m. on Saturday, the first day of the five-day holiday, 13 "red tourism" sites in Guangdong received 23,000 visits during the holiday, up by 298.9 percent year on year, according to the provincial culture and tourism department.

The department recently introduced a "red tourism" passport, which covers 30 revolutionary sites in the province and involves technologies and treasure finding games. The passport has attracted many young people to these sites during the holiday.

"The visit was good, and I've set a goal to visit all the sites and get all the stamps in my red tourism passport this year," said Xu Sheng, a visitor to the peasant movement institute in Guangzhou.

In Shaoshan, central China's Hunan Province, the hometown of late Chairman Mao Zedong, visitors queued in line to visit the former residence of Mao.

Visitors also took photos on the Mao Zedong Square, decorated with flowers and inscribed with the words "Centenary of the Communist Party of China."

The city of Ganzhou in east China's Jiangxi Province, which is abundant in red tourism resources, also received 420,000 tourists on Saturday. Its county-level city of Ruijin received visits of 195,000, up by 650 percent year on year.

"Praise must go to the older generation of revolutionaries who went through all the hardships to build our country. We'll ask our children and grandchildren to come and visit revolutionary sites too," said Tan Shibi, who came with his wife Wang Yu from Kunming in southwest China's Yunnan Province to specifically visit the revolutionary sites in Ruijin.

According to the TravelGo online platform, the number of flights to red tourism destinations during the Qingming Festival and May Day holiday this year accounted for 15.6 percent of all flights booked. It is an increase of 4 percentage points compared with the same period in 2019.

To celebrate the centenary of the Communist Party of China, the culture and tourism authorities in Shanghai and east China's provinces of Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Anhui also launched a series of red tourism-themed activities.

Yan'an, a city rich in revolutionary resources in northwest China's Shaanxi Province, designed ten red tourism routes for the May Day holiday. Dance performances and shows are staged in a red tourism-themed train heading for Yan'an.

(Web editor: Zhange Wenjie, Bianji)
Nationalism vs. patriotism: What's the difference and why it matters By Sam Jacobs

The terms nationalism and patriotism are often used interchangeably. This is understandable, as they have somewhat overlapping meanings, both of which suffer from a certain amount of vagueness. However, there are a number of key differences between the two that are worth shedding light on. In the final analysis, we believe that the term nationalism, while not denoting anything totalitarian by its nature, is not an accurate term for the sentiment that exists in the United States. Nationalism, it would seem, is more suited to Europe or Asia, places with historic nations, united by common language and ethnicity that are necessarily tied with a certain area of land. Theres a lot to unpack here and the differences are extremely subtle. And to give a bit of a spoiler, were not going to be taking the position, as is often the case, that patriotism is fine but nationalism is simply a metastatic and malignant form of patriotism. First Things First: How Do Both Differ From Libertarianism and Conservatism Before going any further, its worth taking a few minutes to distinguish both patriotism and nationalism from libertarianism and conservatism. We can do this without parsing out the difference between patriotism and nationalism  and for that matter, libertarianism and conservatism. Libertarianism and conservatism operate from a similar set of principles. These principles are abstract and platonic in as much as they are about divining the truest form of an ideal ideology from a stated goal. Libertarianism has a clear philosophical principle: more liberty is always good. American conservatism is a diffuse and often contradictory philosophy, but for the purposes of extrapolating the difference between conservatism and other ideologies, we will say that the defining characteristic of American conservatism (as opposed to European conservatism, which has a much greater overlap with nationalism), is that of limited government. We can conflate both of these ideals into the somewhat more vague notion that freedom is always good. The point here isnt to oversimplify and make a strawman. Its simply to come up with a uniting ethos to illustrate how nationalism and patriotism as ideologies differ from currents that have been more mainstream on the American right for a longer period of time. Nationalism and patriotism, on the other hand, might find value in freedom and might even make a secondary goal out of it. However, the uniting principle of each is that it is the country itself, the success of the body politic, that is paramount, not more abstract notions of freedom. Thus, the key difference is that conservatism and libertarianism are philosophically driven ideologies where results take a backseat to principles. On the other hand, nationalism and patriotism are pragmatic ideologies, where the proof is in the pudding. Another way of phrasing this is that libertarianism and conservatism are non-consequentialist, whereas nationalism and patriotism are consequentialist. Conservatism and libertarianism are guided by doing the right thing, whereas nationalism and patriotism are more the ends justify the means type of philosophies. It is worth noting, briefly, that Sam Francis, an advisor to the 1996 presidential campaign of Pat Buchanan, urged him to not even compete for the mantle of conservative, instead telling him to identify as a nationalist, patriot or America Firster. His ideas are considered enormously influential on President Trumps 2016 campaign . Definition by Contrast: What is Globalism? Nationalism and patriotism also stand in contrast to globalism. While this term is thrown around a lot, it is worth discussing what it is and what it means and how it is different from its alternatives. Globalism is, simply put, a view of politics that values trans-national bureaucracies over the nation state. Sometimes these are big, shadowy institutions like the Trilateral Commission or the Bilderberg Group, but more commonly they are far more innocuous-looking non-governmental organizations (NGOs or sometimes QUANGOs for quasi-autonomous non-governmental organizations). NGOs generally present themselves as some kind of politically neutral entity that is just about good people doing good things. Amnesty International, for example, was, for many years, an organization dedicated to defending people who were held in jail for their political or religious views . They now lobby for legalized abortion and liberalization of gay marriage laws across the world. Regardless of how one feels about either of these issues, it seems difficult to square either of these with the mission of Amnesty. NGOs are largely how George Soros exercises power over the political process of countries, which has led to them being expelled from Hungary and Myanmar . They tend to have generic names like United We Dream or International Rescues Committee. Thus, they are difficult to attack on their face  are you opposed to dreams and rescues? Globalism is marked by both its global orientation and hostility toward the nation state, but also its view that democracy is a means to an end. When the democratic process fails to provide the correct result, this is taken as prima facie something has gone wrong and needs to be corrected. This can be seen in the liberal-globalist response to the election of President Trump in 2016, but also the whole attitude of globalists toward nations like Poland and Hungary, whose democracies consistently oppose liberalism in toto at the ballot box. What is Revanchism? One of the defining characteristics of nationalism  and a great place to start talking about how nationalism is more appropriate for Europe than the United States  is revanchism. This is a word that youve probably never heard before, but the concept will immediately become clear. Revanchism comes from the French word meaning revenge. The term, if not the philosophy itself, originated in the period between the Franco-Prussian War and the First World War. It specifically referred to French ambitions to retake the lost provinces of Alsace-Lorraine, which had been extracted by the Prussians during the Franco-Prussian War, the war which led to the formation of the German Empire. Irredentism is an almost entirely identical concept. Broadly, both terms refer to the notion that in a given country  say, Serbia  there is a Greater version of it. Thus, Serbian nationalists do not believe that Serbia represents the whole of the Serbian nation. There is territory outside of Serbia in Croatia, Montenegro, and elsewhere that is part of the natural borders of Serbia and needs to, in the eyes of the nationalists, be reincorporated into the legal borders of Serbia for the nation to be made whole. This isnt to pick on the Serbians. Virtually every nation in Europe has a revanchist faction somewhere, even if its very small and marginal. To give a few examples, Spain would very much like to reclaim Gibraltar, but there are also movements for a Greater Greece (the Megali Idea), Greater Hungary, Greater Russia, and many others. So why do these movements exist in Europe, but theres no movement for the United States to annex Canada or retake the Philippines? To answer this question begins to get at the essence of how nationalism differs from patriotism. The United States is not a nation state in the way virtually every country in Europe is  Switzerland is the primary exception. There are Italians in Austria who speak Italian, express Italian culture and, in years past, would have likely been in favor of reuniting their Italian-speaking areas of Austria with Italy. But in America (and Switzerland for that matter), this is a bit of a nonsense question. There is certainly what could be called a Historic American Nation, comprised largely of Scotch-Irish stock who have been in America since the 17th century. But even these people do not have an exclusive claim to the American nation, as others were here from the beginning, most notably African slaves and Native Americans. America is not a nation-state, but rather a multi-racial, multi-ethnic and multi-confessional nation with more in common with Switzerland than France in this regard. So Whats the Deal With Switzerland? Switzerland is anomalous among European nations. It was formed originally as a defensive alliance between several small territories, now known as cantons, that banded together without the intention of becoming a nation. And, indeed, they did not. Each canton enjoys broad autonomy to this day and federalism reigns throughout the country. One Swiss canton, Appenzell Innerrhoden, somewhat famously did not extend the franchise to women until 1991 . When you cross the border from Poland to Germany, youll find a lot of people who speak Polish and identify as Polish  and vice versa. But when you cross the border from Switzerland to Italy, youre not going to find anyone who identifies as Swiss unless youre speaking to a tourist. Why is this? Because, much like being an American, Swiss identity largely revolves around identity and values rather than blood and soil. While the latter is often, somewhat unfairly, associated with the Nazis who adopted it for its own purpose, it is worth using as a form of contrast from the nationalism (really patriotism) that exists in a place like the United States or Switzerland. While the lines are obviously gray, its not immediately obvious that one can easily become French or Russian or Swedish because these are ethnic descriptions as much as, and perhaps more than, a reference to what passport one carries. Israel is an example of a country that is close to being explicitly ethnic in nature. Not anyone can become an Israeli citizen. Indeed, not even every Jew can become an Israeli citizen. Messianic Jews, for example, are not covered by the famous Law of Return. The Law of Return covers those with a Jewish mother or maternal grandmother, Jewish ancestry (a father or grandfather) and converts to Judaism of the Orthodox, Conservative or Reform denominations (the latter two types of conversions must happen outside of Israel)  but explicitly excludes Jews who have converted to another religion. Ethiopian Jews were not recognized until 1973 . In short, despite the fact that it is a nation founded in modern times and is comprised largely of immigrants , not anyone may become an Israeli citizen. On the other hand, the United States and Switzerland are not nation-states in the sense of being the nation of one group of people (like France, Russia or Germany). And so, in Switzerland, national identity is not so much about being from a specific lineage, religion or even speaking the same language (there are four official languages of Switzerland) than it is about a set of shared civic values, pride in Swiss history, and Alpine imagery. Similarly, the United States has a number of ethnic groups with a diverse history in the U.S. What they have had in common, at least until the left started denigrating American history and attacking the very notion of assimilation , is that they shared what can be broadly defined as  American values . These values have some degree of flexibility and there is disagreement as to how they ought to be expressed or implemented, but until very recently, all Americans agreed that there was such a thing as American values, that these values were a good thing, and that the question was about what specifically they were and how specifically they should express themselves in the public sphere. One of the most obvious examples of American values is free speech , but now many people dont even agree that thats a good thing . The notion that foreigners should assimilate to American culture is derided as racist . The attack on statues, not just of Confederate generals, but of Teddy Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln , demonstrate a lack of reverence for American culture and history. Indeed, the Founding Fathers are derided as white supremacists. Nationalism vs. Patriotism in the U.S. and the U.K. Unsurprisingly, the difference between nationalism and patriotism in both the U.K. and the U.S. is extremely similar. This is because both are multinational or multi-ethnic or both, depending on your perspective. Even prior to the Civil War and mass migration of the postbellum period, the United States was home to descendents of European founding stock, African slaves, Native Americans, Chinese immigrants, and others. By contrast, the United Kingdom is comprised of four (formerly independent from one another) nations  England, (Northern) Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. So what does this mean? Well, in practice it means that in both the U.S. and the U.K., that nationalism means you want to reduce the size of the country rather than expand it. For example, an English nationalist wants independence for England from the United Kingdom because, among other things, the Scots and Irish and Welsh are allowed to vote on policies in England, but not vice versa, a situation known as the West Lothian Question . Theres not really such a thing as a British nationalist, though there are British patriots. Similarly, despite the attempt by some on the right to brand as American nationalists, this makes little sense. What does make a certain kind of sense is the formulations of white nationalism (the desire for an independent nation just for whites, usually in the Northwest), black nationalism (the desire for an independent state for blacks, usually in the Black Belt of the American South) or Chicano nationalism (the desire for an independent state for Mexican-Americans in the American Southwest). This isnt an endorsement of any of these ideologies, which we oppose. But it is meant to illustrate our point that, as opposed to Continental European nationalism, which is expansive in its geopolitics , British and American nationalisms are reductive, seeking to separate one group of people from the rest of the country. Each of these represents a sort of reverse irredentism. Black nationalists, for example, arent looking to reclaim lost territory. Theyre trying to carve off a part of the United States for themselves. American nationalism is really just a form of political patriotism. The symbols of America are civic symbols, not ethnic ones. We are thinking of things like the American flag, Columbia and the State of Liberty, eagles, fireworks, colonial garb, the Constitution and Declaration of Independence and the like. There is also a great deal of pride in the military, scientific, cultural and commercial achievements of the United States  ask yourself if you consider the statue of Marines raising the flag at Iwo Jima, a photograph of Neil Armstrong landing on the moon, the works of Mark Twain, or a 1968 Camaro to be symbolic of America in some meaningful way. American patriotism is also about celebrating and venerating what we might call the American Way of Life. This means, very roughly speaking, the ability to start a business, own a home, leave a job, own a gun , consume media of ones own choosing  in a word, what most Americans would identify as freedom. This returns us to the notion that patriotism, as opposed to nationalism, necessarily includes a commitment to a certain set of ideals defined as being synonymous with the country itself, rather than simply to a bloodline or collective history. The Missing Key to the Puzzle: Ethnogenesis Still, one could make the case that Britain is now a nation and that the so-called constituent nations of the U.K. are simply relics of a bygone era. This might be true and, indeed, many Britons (mostly from Southern England) fill in British as their nationality on census forms. Similarly, American on a census form is generally the preferred nomenclature of the Scotch-Irish. Why then, can we not speak of an American nationalism? Well, because America is lacking what is called ethnogenesis. This is basically a fancy word meaning creation of the nation. There is no single clear event that makes a British nation separate from the constituent nations that formed it. Indeed, there is disagreement as to whether or not theres even been one. But in the United States, it is clear  there is no event or series of events that fused the peoples off the United States into a single, mostly unified ethnicity. Even today, Americans remain largely separated by race and ethnicity , with whites marrying whites, blacks marrying blacks, Chinese marrying Chinese (or at least other Asians) and so on. Theres nothing bad about the largely voluntary ethnic separatism in the United States, nor anything inherently good about ethnogenesis. But its simply a statement of fact that while, with the exception of what were formerly called ethnic whites (mostly a euphemism for recent Catholic immigrants from Southern and Eastern Europe) merging into the white ethnic group more generally, there has been no ethnogenesis in the United States. Without an ethne, there can be no nation. Can Nationalism or Patriotism Exist Without a State? All of this raises an important question: Can there be either nationalism or patriotism without a political entity? When discussing nationalism, the question is a resounding yes. The list of national identities that existed before there was a state to unite them is too long to discuss here, but for a couple quick and easy examples, how about Serbia, Czechia or Ireland? Serbian, Czech and Irish nationalists helped to create the modern-day states of Serbia, Czechia and Ireland. They were Serbian, Czech and Irish before these states existed. On the other hand, whether or not a patriot can be a patriot of a non-existent state is somewhat more dubious. When we speak of the Patriots during the American Revolution, its true that the war was underway and that they were still, at least as far as the rest of the world was concerned, an integral part of the British Empire. On the other hand, they also were patriots for an incipient state  what would eventually become the United States of America. If the Patriots of the American Revolution had failed, its an open question whether or not there would be anything resembling American Patriotism. If such a thing did exist, it would much more resemble neo-Confederate Lost Cause ideology than it would any kind of nationalism as it exists in Continental Europe. On the other hand, if the Principality of Serbia had not separated from the Ottoman Empire, the Serbian nation would not cease to exist. Why Nationalism Is Not Simply Patriotism Gone Wrong It is worth addressing the claim, often floated about, that nationalism is little more than a bad version of patriotism. But this seems like a flawed position for a variety of reasons. First, there is the issue addressed in the previous section: the nationalism of occupied nations. It would be difficult to make the claim that Serbian nationalism under the Ottoman Empire was simply a form of negative patriotism. Is Irish nationalism under British rule simply patriotism gone too far? This argument is nonsensically absurd when considering the plight of occupied nations, historical and contemporary, in Europe and elsewhere. Now let us consider the nationalism of an existing or dominant nation state. Here, it becomes somewhat less nonsensical, but again, doesnt seem to be a useful distinction between the words. If French patriotism differs fundamentally from French nationalism only because the former is good and the latter is bad, then these two words effectively mean the same thing and are used only to denote the subjective appraisal of the speaker. The distinction then becomes a meaningless one and each word simply becomes either an atta boy or a condemnation. Is Nationalism Simply the Worship of the State? A further criticism leveled at the very notion of nationalism is that it involves a specific veneration of the state that is absent in patriotism. Nationalism then becomes seen as being in favor of the government  any government  that rules over a nation, whereas patriotism is more flexible in its ability to criticize the ruling elite. This notion has been put forward by, among others, George Orwell . This position also cannot hold water when one considers that, particularly in Western Continental Europe, the nationalists are effectively dissidents. Consider the case of France: The main nationalist party, the National Rally (formerly known as the National Front) stands in opposition to the mainstream conservative parties and is, to a certain degree, marginalized in their politics. While they might seek to exercise the power of the state, this doesnt make them any different from any other political party contending for power. Their entire raison d'etre is to be critical of most of the postwar political tradition of globalist liberalism with some elements of a social democratic welfare state. This is basically true of every major nationalist party in Europe  Austrias Freedom Party, the Swedish Democrats, the Alternative for Germany, etc. The EU is the apotheosis of the postwar order in Europe, effectively an attempt to route around democracy and put technocrats in charge of maintaining this order where the plebs cant touch it. Much of the notion that nationalism is patriotism plus worship of the state comes from the interwar period and the relationship between nationalism and fascism  an attempt to conflate nationalism with fascism. And while, at a certain point in history, this might have been a fair conflation, what with most of the nationalists being fascists and the fascists being the most ardent nationalists, it is an outdated analysis that does precious little to shed light on the nature of either nationalism or contemporary totalitarian currents. In the final analysis, there are differences between patriotism and nationalism, but there is also a common thread that connects them. The differences primarily flow from whether or not nationalism or patriotism is appropriate for any given country. One doesnt need to be either a nationalist or a patriot (and a good many morally healthy people are not), but neither is necessarily bad, good or other. Why Does It Matter? So thats the difference between nationalism and patriotism, but why does it matter? It matters because of the situational context, as well as insulating yourself against being easily manipulated by the press, the corporate sector and their toadies within NGOs  all of whom are hostile toward both. Nationalism, in certain countries, is reductive, regressive and effectively seeks to divide the country against itself by splitting off different demographics into their own  easily dominated, we might add (just look at the former Yugoslavia and post-Soviet states that arent Russia)  little fiefdoms or statelets. In others, it is simply the ancestral people of a country asserting themselves against domination by foreign powers or, more increasingly, unaccountable multinational institutions such as the EU. Patriotism, on the other hand, is a similar, but not identical, phenomenon which arises in countries not united by a single ethnos, but instead by an ethos and a culture. The United States is such a country, as is the Peoples Republic of China for that matter, with Switzerland acting as a prime example of how patriotism has worked to successfully forge a united identity that does not deny or extinguish differences between the countrys constituent parts. Both are bogeymen of globalists who seek to reduce the entire world to interchangeable parts  rootless consumers of increasingly borrowed or rented goods (XaaS) and the cheapest labor that can be had. This is precisely because each celebrates what is special about a group of people, whether they be united by a common ancestry or a common set of values and cultural experience. In a world where the powers that be want to reduce us all to the same gray sludge, nationalism and patriotism are both powerful ideologies standing in opposition to a world where the only metric of value is the GDP and a return on investment, a world which creates enormous riches for those able to game the system, while acting as a race to the bottom for everyone else. Sam Jacobs is a writer for Ammo.com where this originally appeared. Home
Neel Bhatt, a UW assistant professor of otolaryngology, specializes in treating patients with voice problems. Through his work, he began to realize people did not like the sound of their own voices. With the transition to school over Zoom, many students can relate to the discomfort of hearin
Dancehall artist Cecile has indicated that she is totally fed up with the lackluster quality of national security in Jamaica.

She pointed to the inaction of some Jamaica Constabulary Force members, the inertia of Government, and the nonchalance of citizens, which is resulting in criminals being able to, in many cases, commit wrongdoings and then gallop away scot-free.

The Can you do the Work artist made her displeasure known after receiving what she said were multiple reports made to her about incidences of robberies, in particular one which took place in Portmore, but which upon being reported, was paid scant regard by happy-go-lucky cops.

Im just told that my friends neighbour was kidnapped by taxi she went in at Bridgeport and taken to ATM n robbed.. of 100k kept over night to go back to the ATM robbed again of 80k (thats all she had in her account) then let go at crossroads and given bus farethere were 2 other women tied up in the taxi as wellshe then went to the closest station which was crossroads who sent her to Bridgeport who sent her to 100 man..same god damn day all now the public was never made aware, she said.

Im trying to corroborate this but me know dem nah go respond. How can I CORROBORATE this kidnapping report so I can do my duty as an artiste and warn the nation??? Warn other women.and maybe do some police work. Police also treat victims like criminals sometimes. This happened few weeks ago. All I care about is protecting women. And everybody a get cuss. Citizens police government everybody, she added.

Hours later she made another post seemingly verifying that the robbery had in fact taken place and affirming the details of what was said to be lackadaisical behavior by the police.

Now I get it. Im beginning to understandmake no mistake..me still a bun oonu out if oonu see and nah talk. No excuse now cause we have the internet. But im slowly getting the resistance ..im slowly seeing things from a different perspective, she said.

However, not too long after, the Jamaica Constabulary Force responded to her post about the Portmore robbery.

Hi Cecile, this was just brought to our attention. Can you send us a DM so we can investigate the matter? the Constabulary noted, to which Cecile responded: I am going to Dm u thanks.

Early on Sunday morning, Cecile also said she had reached a breaking point where the assault of young children is concerned, and demanded that Prime Minister Andrew Holness assign police officers to target the perpetrators and bring them to justice.

She directed her questions to Holness after news surfaced about a disturbing case of sexual assault against a 12-year-old girl in the parish of St. Ann, which was committed by five men.

Mi tireddd enuh God know, Cecile wrote on ZJ Sparks Instagram page where the story of the assault was posted.

Then after reposting on her own page, the mother of one wrote:

Im back to say respectfully enough is not being done to DETERRRR crime @andrewholnessjm sir if i was a criminal id really see no deterrant. Imagine thinking its ok to do this to a 13 year old? When and how we have no face of NOONE them criminal yah fraid ah. At least Mr. Adams spoke the language they knew, the Manchester native stated, making reference to the greatly-feared retired cop Reneto Adams.

She then juxtaposed the gravity of the crime against the teenager with that of Popaans traffic violation episode with the St. Thomas police last week.

We know u job rough but is games di law n order ppl dem a play. We demand fi see police a bad up rapists n not targetting artistes inna bush pon dirt bike.

So tell me say NOBODY NO KNOW DEM 5 DUTTY MAN YAH. AND WHILE BAD MIND POLICE A TARGET ARTISTE RAPIST DEM A RUN FREE. @andrewholnessjm Brogad trouble @nestaja me nuh know enuh @julietsamantha TROUBLE, she added.

Her colleague Skatta Burrell also called for the identities of the perpetrators be released to the nation.

We the People of Jamaica demand the identity of these assholes be released to the public, Skatta stated.
The Queen of Dancehall Spice celebrated her hypnotic new single, Go Down Deh featuring Reggae/Dancehall legends Sean Paul and Shaggy, with an epic Egyptian themed release party.

The song, produced by Grammy Award nominee, Costi Ionita and Shaggy and written by Spice, Sean Paul, Shaggy, Costi and Shane Hoosong, made its debut at No. 1 on US and Israeli iTunes Reggae charts. The music video  directed by Jay Will  is currently No. 1 YouTube trending in Jamaica while also sitting atop Tidal Reggae and Dancehall Video hits.

According to a release from Spices team, Last Friday, the night and ambiance was set for a queen with Egyptian themed decor around the room of the Cosmopolitan Premier Lounge in Decatur, Georgia. VH1s Love & Hip-Hop cameras rolled as cast members Rasheeda, Safaree Samuels, Yandy Smith-Harris, Karlie Redd, Sierra Gates, and Jasmine Ellis, among others walked the red carpet to the Queen of Dancehalls single release party.

When Spice arrived, fans became increasingly ecstatic as she walked the red carpet in her pink floor-length pink braids and a Versace jumpsuit. Reggae/dancehall icon, Shaggy surprised fans and came on the carpet with a boombox backpack blasting their new single, Go Down Deh.

Spice dramatically entered the room with four muscled-oiled up men carrying her like the Queen that she is onto the stage. More than 20 dancers dressed in all gold with Cleopatra styled wigs lined up around the stage for a captivating performance that also featured the one and only, Shaggy.

On Instagram today, Spice wrote, Special thanks to these men who lifted me at 180 pounds and the bed at 50 pounds Big up my girls yall did exception well #TeamspiceAtlanta @queenbuttah

Both Shaggy and Spice danced and whined on the carpet, the release said. Spice expressed her gratitude to Shaggy for executive producing her forthcoming album that is set to release on Friday, July 30, 2021.

The Queen started a whine competition as fans gathered around the stage to see exactly who could indeed, go down deh. Fans got on stage and expressed their love for her, and one fan even revealed that she drove 6 hours to see her. 

After the fan finished her Go down deh whine, Spice offered her a spot on her dance team! Love & Hip Hop Atlanta cast member, Safaree, also joined Spice on stage along with a number of fans to dance.

Safaree told the crowd he was the other S because Sean Paul couldnt attend, and the night was dubbed as Spice, Shaggy and Safaree.

The release added, Karlie Redds daughter, Jasmine Ellis, and Yandy Smith Harris also joined Spice on stage to render a cute whine to show their excitement and support.

As the night wrapped, Spice expressed her gratitude to the entire room, revealing to the crowd that because of all of their support the new album will be titled, Ten to commemorate the 10 years shes been in the industry. Spice also spoke about her humble beginnings that included her struggles with homelessness. The event was an unforgettable experience that brought the dynamics of Love & Hip Hop, and Dancehall together, all while revealing the humble heart of an amazing entertainer, performer, mogul, and motherSpice.
Examining the Polish-Canadian community on the 230th anniversary of the Polish Constitution of 1791 By Apolonja (Pola) Kojder and Mark Wegierski

May 3, 2021 is the 230th anniversary of the Polish Constitution of the Third of May, 1791. On the threshold of the disappearance of the old Polish state (the First Republic) the Poles enacted a salutary reform of their anarchic political system. Had the Polish state endured after 1795, it would have been well served by this Constitution, which had been effusively praised by (among others) Edmund Burke. We would like to use this occasion to comment on the Polish-Canadian community today. Although, according to the statistics of the 2016 Canada Census, there are over a million persons of Polish descent in Canada, that group has a comparatively minor impact on Canadian society, politics, and culture, especially today. Canadian Polonia (the Polish-Canadian community) seems to have a perennial misapprehension of what constitutes objective cultural influence and power in today's Canada. The Polish community in Canada seems to have a larger number of prominent artists (such as sculptors, painters, and so forth), than writers. Sculpture and painting often seem to offer far less scope for making a strong social impact, than writing. Some types of writing (such as opinion journalism) have almost immediate social and political effects. There are currently no opinion-columnists on staff in any of the major Toronto newspapers, who could be identified as belonging to the Polish-Canadian community, nor do any such opinion-columnists in any major newspaper in the country come to mind. There are also very few authors of books by recognized publishers. It could be argued that objective cultural influence and power does not mainly emphasize such phenomena as art exhibits, dramatic shows, symphony concerts, and poetry recitals. Rather, it means  at its most expansive definition -- the extensive participation of community-minded activists in well-funded, well-supported structures across the various institutions of Canadian society, such as the mass-media, the state bureaucracies, the education system (especially at the university level), and so forth. It also means the extensive funneling of government and major corporate philanthropic support to various facets of the community's activities. What can one say when even the post of the President of the Canadian Polish Congress is a volunteer position. There are, currently, only a few M.P.s who could be identified as emphatically belonging to the Polish-Canadian community, in the Canadian Federal Parliament. Among the most prominent is Calgary-area Conservative M.P. Tom Kmiec. Also, in the Ontario Parliament there were two dynamic women elected as Progressive Conservative M.P.P.s in 2018  Kinga Surma (Etobicoke-Centre) and Natalia Kusendova (Mississauga-Centre). In 2011-2015, there were two emphatically Polish-Canadian M.P.s from the Conservative Party, Wladyslaw Lizon and Ted Opitz. During the 1970s, Stanley Haidasz represented the Parkdale-High Park riding (then the Toronto-area riding with the highest proportion of persons of Polish descent) as a Liberal, being named as Minister of State for Multiculturalism. His successor in the riding was the Liberal, Jesse Flis. Because of the prominence of Haidasz and Flis, the Polish-Canadians tended to support the federal Liberal Party in earlier decades. The main waves of Polish immigration to Canada could be identified as pre-World War I; interwar; post-World War II; 1956-1979; Solidarity era; and post-1989. Before World War I, Poland had endured Partition (harsh foreign occupation under Tsarist Russia, Prussia/Germany, and the Habsburg Empire) since 1795. Independence was regained only in 1918. The Polish Second Republic fell before the savage onslaught of Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union (then Hitlers ally) in September 1939 (when World War II began). Betrayed by America and Britain at the Yalta Conference, Poland was assigned to the Soviet sphere of influence (to be officially called the Peoples Republic of Poland) -- along with the wrenching displacement of her frontiers in a westward direction. In consequence of the death of Stalin in 1953, the coming to power of Wladyslaw Gomulka in October 1956 essentially polonized the regime. The disturbances of 1968-1970 brought Edward Gierek to power, whose economic policies initiated a short period of considerable prosperity. Nevertheless, the election of the Polish Pope in 1978 galvanized the opposition, culminating in the flowering of the independent trade-union movement, Solidarity. On December 13, 1981, Communist General Jaruzelski declared martial law and attempted to crush the Solidarity movement, which went underground. Finally, the impetus of Solidarity was one of the factors that helped to initiate the massive transformations that resulted in the collapse of the Communist regimes in Eastern Europe in 1989. The Polish Third Republic was proclaimed. The arrival of Polish-Canadians increased the intra-European diversity of Canada. It could be argued that the initial definition of multiculturalism in Canada was mostly meant to refer to other European groups, apart from the English and French, especially Eastern and Southern Europeans. That definition has been mostly eclipsed since the 1980s, with the arrival of huge visible minority immigration. Apolonja (Pola) Kojder is the main author of Marynia, Dont Cry: Memoirs of Two Polish-Canadian Families (University of Toronto Press, 1995). She lives in North Battleford, Saskatchewan. Mark Wegierski is a Toronto-based writer and historical researcher, published in Calgary Herald, Ottawa Citizen, and The Hill Times (Ottawa), among others. They were both born in Canada of Polish immigrant parents. Home
As many as 24 patients including 23 suffering from COVID-19 died in Chamarajanagar due to alleged oxygen shortage in the district hospital, officials said. (Representational Image/PTI)

New Delhi: The Congress on Monday demanded the resignation of the Karnataka health minister after the death of 24 patients at a hospital in Chamarajanagar district of the state due to alleged oxygen shortage.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi asked how much more will people suffer before the system wakes up.

"Died or Killed? My heartfelt condolences to their families. How much more suffering before the 'system' wakes up," he asked on Twitter.

As many as 24 patients including 23 suffering from COVID-19 died in Chamarajanagar due to alleged oxygen shortage in the district hospital, officials said.

Gandhi also lashed out at the Central government over the pace of the COVID-19 vaccination drive and alleged policy paralysis on its part, a charge that the Manmohan Singh-led UPA government faced from the BJP.

"A policy paralysed GOI cannot secure victory over the virus. Face it. Don't fake it," Gandhi tweeted, sharing a media report that the Centre is yet to place fresh vaccine order.

Congress general secretary Randeep Surjewala also hit out at the YS Yediyurappa government for the death of patients at the hospital due to lack of oxygen.

"This is murder by designed negligence of Yediyurappa Govt! Health Minister must resign," he said.

"Will CM Yediyurappa ji own moral responsibility for the deaths," Surjewala also asked.
The infra majors proposal to merge the Gangavaram Port Limited (GPL) into its Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ) may not be approved by the government. (Photo: PTI)

Hyderabad: The Andhra Pradesh government has in principle decided to divest its 10 per cent equity in Gangavaram port even as its approval of Adanis acquisition of the remaining stake ran into rough weather.

Adani group has recently acquired about 90 per cent stake in the port and offered to buy the remaining also, which is owned by the government. However, the infra majors proposal to merge the Gangavaram Port Limited (GPL) into its Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ) may not be approved by the government.

Sources told this correspondent that the Cabinet which would meet on Tuesday would grant in-principle approval for the disinvestment. The government had already constituted a three-member high-level official committee to examine Adanis offer.

Once the cabinet clears the disinvestment, the government would explore the possibilities of fetching maximum revenue out of the equity sale. Sources said Adani offered the same price for which he bought 58.1 per cent equity from original promoter D.V.S. Raju and his family and 31.5 per cent from a global private equity firm Warburg Pincus. As per Adanis valuation, the state will get around Rs 645 crore.

We will engage a professional agency to come up with its own valuation and in all probability will go for tender, sources said, adding that the Adani group, which will have first right of refusal, will be asked to match the highest amount offered in the bid.

The government is of the view that the amount accrued out of sale of its equity could be used for other infra projects including Ramayapatnam. The previous promoters started paying dividend only after the company became debt-free just a couple of years ago and the dividend would stop as Adani will anyway raise debt for the expansion, sources said, justifying the disinvestment move. The government would continue to get 2 per cent share in gross revenue and lease rentals on land, they added.

Meanwhile, the government is likely to raise objections over Adanis proposal to merge GPL into APSEZ. We cant approve the merger because we still have a stake. Secondly, even after the sale of our stake, we should get revenue on gross sale and lease rental for which continuation of GPL as a separate entity is essential, sources said, adding that the same would be communicated to Adani.
Section 144 of CrPC will be in force during the time of curfew in the state. (DC File Image)

Vijayawada: Following steep rise in Coronavirus infections day-by-day, Andhra Pradesh government to impose partial curfew in the state from Wednesday onwards for a period of two weeks.

The Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy chaired a meeting with top officials of the government at his Camp Office here on Monday and took a decision to impose a partial curfew.

As part of it, all commercial establishments to be allowed to function from 6.00 am to 12.00 noon in a day and later, only essential services will be allowed.

Section 144 of CrPC will be in force during the time of curfew in the state.
Eatala claimed that none of the ministers or MLAs in the TRS was living with self-respect as Chandrashekhar Rao did not treat them even as human beings but they continued to remain with him as they knew how he treated those who differed with him. (Photo: Facebook @Eatala Rajendar)

Hyderabad: A day after he was dropped from the Council of Ministers over allegations of land encroachment, Eatala Rajendar hit back at Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao alleging that the latter was using all institutions and departments under his control to target him but he was not the one to be cowed down.

"I am not scared by threats of arrests and cases. You have deployed hundreds of policemen around my house. Book whatever case you want to against me. I will approach the court for justice," he said.

Addressing a press conference here on Monday, Eatala asked the Chief Minister if the link road to his farmhouse in Erravelli was not laid illegally through assigned and private lands. He said he was ready to quit as MLA but before taking a decision, he said, he would seek opinion of people in his Huzurabad constituency.

Demanding an inquiry into his assets by a sitting judge and not by the agencies working under the Chief Minister, Rajendar said he was ready to die, ready to forego all his wealth, properties, businesses but would not give up his self-respect.

He claimed that none of the ministers or MLAs in the TRS was living with self-respect as Chandrashekhar Rao did not treat them even as human beings but they continued to remain with him as they knew how he treated those who differed with him.

Denying the allegations that he encroached assigned lands in two villages of Medak district, Eatala said that those who conducted the investigation did not even seek their clarification or issued any notices. "I will initiate legal action on the inquiry report," he said.

Eatala alleged that the inquiry report by officials against him was full of lies. He said he was not director in Jamuna Hatcheries which was run by his wife and son. He made it clear that he had no plans to float a new political party.

Stating that he worked with Chandrashekar Rao for 19 years, Eatala said he never worked to bring bad name to the party or government or the Chief Minister himself. He said as the leader of the Telangana movement, Chandrashekar Rao never supported any wrongdoing. "Such a leader is today using all his power against a small man like me. I am ready to face cases and go to jail but will not give up my self-respect."
Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao thanked the voters in the seven Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), including GWMC and KMC for accomplishing an overwhelming 74 per cent vote share. It proves that TRS is unstoppable. (Photo: Twitter @trspartyonline)

HYDERABAD: The TRS continued its winning spree in the municipal polls held for two corporations and five urban local bodies (ULBs) after Sundays thumping victory in the Nagarjunasagar Assembly by-elections. The ruling TRS and its ally won 184 wards out of a total of 248 in Greater Warangal Municipal Corporation (GWMC), Khammam Municipal Corporation (KMC) and five ULBs, including five Siddipet, Jedcherla, Atchampet, Kothur and Nakrekal.

The TRS won 48 of 66 wards in GWMC, while the BJP bagged 10, Congress four, All India Forward Bloc (AIFB) one and independents three. TRS mayoral candidate Gundu Sudharani registered a thumping victory.

The pink party bagged 43 divisions and its ally (CPI) won three of the total 60 municipal divisions in KMC. During 2016 municipal polls the TRS won in 34 of 50 divisions. The Congress, which managed to secure double digit seats (10) in the 2016, managed an equal number, this time around. BJP won one division while CPM and independents pocketed two each.

The TRS won 11 of the 20 wards in Nakrekal municipality. The AIFB won from six wards, the Congress two and independent one and the BJP failed to open its account. TRS dissidents contested from 16 wards under the banner of AIFB and won six wards.

The ruling party recorded a landslide victory in Siddipet municipality by bagging as many as 36 of the 43 wards. While independents won from five wards, the BJP and the AIMIM managed to win one each and the Congress failed to win even one seat. TRS rebel Mohammad Riyazuddhin, who won from the 20th ward, joined TRS in the presence of finance minister T. Harish Rao an hour after his victory.

In 12 municipal wards in Kothur, the TRS won seven while the Congress captured the remaining five. Out of 27 wards in Jadcherla municipality, the TRS won 24 wards followed by the BJP with two seats and the Congress one.

In Achampet municipality, out of 20 seats, the TRS won 13, the Congress bagged six and BJP had one success while in Bodhan TRS candidate Gangaram won 18 ward with 165 votes majority.

Later, reacting to the outstanding performance, Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao thanked the voters in the seven Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), including GWMC and KMC for accomplishing an overwhelming 74 per cent vote share. It proves that TRS is unstoppable.

People have owned TRS as their party and this verdict has proved this yet again, he said.

Info points:

GWMC (66 wards): TRS won 48 wards, while the BJP bagged 10, Congress restricted to only four, independents four and AIFB 1

KMC (60 wards): TRS 43 divisions, CPI -2, Congress -10, BJP-1, CPM-2 and independents -2

Nakrekal (20 wards): TRS won 11, AIFB 6, Congress 2 and independents- 1

Siddipet (43 wards): TRS-36, independents -5, BJP- 1 and MIM-1

Kothur (12 wards): TRS-7, Congress-5

Jadcherla (27): TRS-24, BJP-2 and Congress -1

Achampet (20): TRS13, Congress -6 and BJP -1

Bodhan 18 ward: TRS won with 165 votes majority
Third parties in Canada  updated to 2021 (Part One) By Mark Wegierski

Third parties are an endlessly fascinating topic of study for political theorists. The notion of third party arises in polities characterized by first-past-the-post voting systems, where there are usually only two major parties. Polities characterized by proportional representation (PR) voting systems, tend to have a multiplicity of parties. Particular popular attention  although scant electoral support -- is given to third parties in the U.S.  where the two-party system is so strongly entrenched. Since the 1850s, with the rise of the Republican Party, there have been two main parties in the U.S.  although both of them have undergone tremendous permutations. Since that time, there has never been in U.S. politics, a third party which achieved the electoral breakthroughs that a considerable number of third parties have been able to do in Canada. It is quite fascinating to study all these third parties. Indeed, these third parties are sometimes not easily categorized as conventionally conservative or liberal. For example, the candidacies of both Ralph Nader (Green Party), and Pat Buchanan (Reform Party) in the 2000 U.S. Presidential election, had elements that could be seen as neither conventionally conservative, nor conventionally liberal. Third parties often amount to a salutary shaking-up of the political system  actually making it more truly populist. Indeed, one of the main differences between Canada and the United States is the presence of relatively successful third parties in Canada. Some had argued that Preston Mannings Reform Party  a classic third party  had effectively become the first party -- as a result of the 2006 Canadian federal election. It should be stressed that the Canadian and U.S. Reform Parties were considerably different in their outlooks. However, in light of Harpers centrist-tending policies  and his failure to win the October 19, 2015, federal election  the notion that the Conservatives were the Reform Party  Version Three  is indeed quite spurious. It could be argued that the Reform Party vision of Canada was already mostly defeated when Preston Manning felt compelled to broaden the party into the Canadian Alliance. The two main parties in Canadian politics have been the Liberals (roughly corresponding to the post-1930s U.S. Democrats) and the Conservatives (roughly corresponding to twentieth-century U.S. Republicans  although rather more moderate). The Liberals in Canada were, between 1896 to 2004, considerably more electorally successful in the Canadian polity, than the U.S. Democrats in America. Ironically, in the 2011 Canadian federal election, the Liberals fell to third party status, winning only 34 of 308 seats. However, they came roaring back to power in the October 19, 2015, federal election, under the leadership of Justin Trudeau, the son of Pierre Elliott Trudeau, Canadas Prime Minister from 1968-1984 (except for nine months in 1979-1980). The Conservatives had changed their name to Progressive Conservative already in 1942. One of the ostensible reasons for the name change was to attract the support of a popular third party of the Western Canadian provinces  the Progressives. In earlier years, there had also been such ephemeral protest parties as the UFO (United Farmers of Ontario). The Communist Party of Canada had famously won a seat in the federal Parliament in the 1940s. The federal-level Christian Heritage Party, the provincial-level Family Coalition Party in Ontario, and the Libertarian Party, have never won a sitting member in the legislatures for which they have run. There has recently arisen Maxime Berniers federal-level Peoples Party of Canada/Parti populaire du Canada, as well as the Peoples Alliance party in New Brunswick, which won 3 seats (and was holding the balance of power) in the 2018 provincial election. In that New Brunswick election, the provincial-level Green Party was also able to win 3 seats. In the 2020 New Brunswick election, the Progressive Conservatives won a majority, so the 3 seats won by the Green Party, and the 2 seats won by the Peoples Alliance party, are less important. The Green Party is also the Official Opposition (second-largest party) in Prince Edward Island, since 2019. Two minor anti-immigration/anti-multiculturalism parties are the Cultural Action Party of Canada, and the Nationalist Party of Canada. There is also the National Citizens Alliance (formerly the National Advancement Party of Canada). The most prominent of the Canadian third parties was probably the Co-operative Commonwealth Federation (CCF), renamed as the New Democratic Party (NDP) in 1961. There was also the Social Credit Party (based loosely on the ideas of C. H. Douglas, who criticized big banks), which arose both in Western Canada and in Quebec  where it had a Quebec-nationalist focus. The founder of the Reform Party, Preston Manning, was the son of the longtime Alberta Social Credit Premier, Ernest C. Manning, and the accusation was sometimes made that the Reform Party were re-tread Socreds. The Reform Party (co-founded in 1987 by Preston Manning) transformed itself into the Canadian Alliance (officially called the Canadian Reform-Conservative Alliance) as a result of the so-called United Alternative process of 1998-2000. The Canadian Alliance then merged with the federal Progressive Conservative party in December 2003, renamed together as the Conservative Party. In Canada, only this federal-level party calls itself Conservative without the adjective  among the various provincial wings (where they exist) the name Progressive Conservative has been retained. The Conservative Party won 166 seats in the 2011 federal election. However, they fell to second place (99 seats) in the 2015 federal election. Another symptom of the general rout of the Conservatives, is that provincial P.C. parties (where they exist) do not currently hold power anywhere in Canada (except for the 2016 win in Manitoba, and now the 2018 win in Ontario). However, the Liberal Party of British Columbia is sometimes anomalously considered to be a centrist or even right-leaning party. According to some observers, the triumph of the Conservative Party in 2011 (where they finally won a majority, after their minority governments of 2006 and 2008) was a belated triumph for Preston Manning. In the 1980s, the P.C. party was mostly hostile to so-called small-c conservatism. Mannings Reform Party certainly divided the broader right/centre-right/centre vote, but it could be argued that it tried to introduce a salutary clarification into Canadian politics. However, the Conservative collapse in 2015 appears to have thoroughly undermined the long-time endeavour to build a true, small-c conservative federal party in Canada. The re-unification of the CA and P.C. parties could only occur after Joe Clark (who had briefly been Prime Minister in 1979-1980, and the leader of the federal P.C.s from 1976-1983 and again in 1998-2003) left the leadership of the federal P.C.s. Joe Clark appeared to have played the role of a spoiler to the bitter twilight of his career. But, after the merger in December 2003, the vote-splitting was definitely over, and, under the leadership of Stephen Harper, the Conservative Party became seriously competitive. While some have argued that the Conservatives might have won a majority already in 2004, it may be supposed that Harper had some work to do to establish his credibility with the Canadian public. He won a minority government in 2006, a strengthened minority in 2008, and finally a strong parliamentary majority in 2011. There were, however, few attempts to move in the direction of more pronounced conservatism, after that major win. So, in retrospect, there really wasnt any kind of belated triumph for Preston Manning. To be continued. Mark Wegierski is a Canadian writer and historical researcher. Home
Highlights of this day in history: Philosopher Niccolo Machiavelli born; The U.S. Supreme Court rules racial covenants in real estate are unenforceable; Joe DiMaggio makes his baseball debut; Singers Pete Seeger and James Brown born. (May 3)
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Tell Toomey to fight for common-sense gun law
A decision by Derry councillors to refuse planning permission for a new riverfront apartment complex has been overturned.

In March 2020, Derry City and Strabane District Council's planning committee refused Clanmil Housing Association permission to build a four-storey complex comprised of 39 apartments at Victoria Road.

However, Clanmil appealed the decision and it has now been overturned.

Local planning officers had described the location as possibly the most difficult regeneration site in the city.

However, the officers had recommended that councillors approve the application for the Victoria Road apartments as the application was entirely compliant.

In their report, planning officers stated that they believed it would reinvigorate the riverfront land and put an end to anti-social behaviour at the site.

Among the objections raised by councillors had been that there was no parking provided within the plans for the Victoria Road apartments.

At the meeting in March 2020, local councillors said they believed a parking ban discriminated against people with disabilities.

At last years meeting, Hugh Hegarty from the Victoria Park Residents Group said the apartment complex design looked like a horrific brutalist East German style eyesore.

Mr Hegarty said pollution and parking problems would be exacerbated if residents were to park on Spencer Road and Duke Street.

A lack of space in the area has already resulted in hazardous parking on Victoria Road and he envisaged problems at the site with numerous couriers and taxis arriving.

In response, a representative for Clanmil said it is a highly accessible location with bus stops and train travel nearby.

The housing association claimed that the design respects the history of the site, the citys shirt factory heritage and complements existing buildings.

A report by the Planning Appeals Commission into the matter has now found that the objections were 'not sustained' and overturned the decision to refuse planning permission.

The decision to overturn the council's refusal decision has been criticised by local rail campaigners, Into the West.

The land at Victoria Road was previously part of the Derry to Strabane railway line which closed in 1955.

Into the West has been campaigning for the line to be reopened and they have described the decision to allow the apartment complex to be built on the site as a 'disaster'.

"A building there will make it impossible to restore a railway line along that route in future  making it extremely unlikely we will ever see rail from Derry to Strabane or Letterkenny again," said Steve Bradley, chair of Into the West.

"Without a route to Strabane, there can be no direct rail services form Derry or Donegal to Dublin.

"And as Derry has a bigger population than every other town on the former Derry-Portadown rail route, if our city can no longer be included in that proposed reopening then the viability of restoring rail to places like Omagh, Strabane, Enniskillen, Dungannon and Letterkenny also collapses.

"In short  building 39 apartments in that location will destroy any future for rail across the west of Ulster and prevent it being returned to Tyrone, Donegal and Fermanagh."

Photo: The derelict site sits next to Bassett's Bathrooms along the River Foyle/Victoria Road.
A man accused of trying to burn down a nightclub in Derry last year has been charged with further arson offences.

Sebastian Szczap, a 23-year-old Polish man with an address at Kular Court in Derry, is currently on bail awaiting trial for allegedly setting fire to Envy nightclub on January 9, 2020.

The Strand Road nightclub was completely destroyed in the fire and had to be knocked down.

Szczap appeared in court on Saturday charged in connection with a recent spate of arson attacks in Derry.

Between 2am and 3am on Sunday, April 25, a number of incidents took place in and around the city centre.

A police officer told the court hearing that a number of wheelie bins were set on fire.

These include locations at William Street, Hawkin Street, Grove Place and Kennedy Street.

The officer said the fires caused approximately 6,000 worth of damage.

He said two large industrial bins costing 180 each, and which were being rented by the 720 Bar, were set on fire at William Street.

The officer said that seven refuse bins were set on fire within the vicinity of Grove Place and Hawkin Street.

He said that four of bins were alleged to have been moved from the kerbside and pushed up close to properties, endangering lives and causing damage to the properties.

The officer said another bin was set on fire behind houses at Kennedy Street.

The bin was very close to a van which subsequently got fire, causing 5,000 worth of damage to the vehicle and clothes inside.

The officer said that police watched CCTV footage from the area and said they were able to identify Szczap as having been involved in the attacks.

The officer said the CCTV footage showed the defendant leaving Kular Court at approximately 2am, breaching his bail conditions in relation to the arson charge for the Envy fire.

The officer said Szczap was seen in the footage to be wearing a blue hooded top, blue bottoms and black trainers.

Through the CCTV, the officer said, police were able to follow the defendant as he visited each location where the fires occurred before returning to Kular Court at 2.50am.

The officer told the court that police searched Szczap's home and searched a number of clothing items before he was arrested for a a total of eight arson offences.

A bail application was made at the court hearing on Szczap's behalf.

However, the PSNI officer said that police would object to bail as they believed he would commit further offences.

He is currently on bail awaiting trial for a high profile arson case in which a prominent nightclub, Envy nightclub, was burnt to the ground in January 2020.

Even after spending a substantial amount of time on these separate arson charges the defendant has failed to change his behaviour and police believe he poses a real and imminent threat to the public.

The officer said Szczap's 'blatant disregard' for other people's property and what appears to be an 'obsession with starting fires' could only be described as a 'lethal combination'.

He added that police were concerned that if released on bail, Szczap's offending could escalate and pose a 'severe danger to the risk of life'.

The officer added that the defendant had nine previous convictions, four of which were for criminal damage.

A defence solicitor suggested that the CCTV footage was the 'only' evidence against Szczap.

However, the solicitor claimed that the identity of the person in the footage was 'totally indistinguishable'.

The judge, however, said he believed that Szczap posed a 'clear and present' danger to the public and the bail application was refused.

He is due to appear in court on May 18 for arraignment in relation to the charges in connection with the Envy arson attack.

The case in connection with the new arson charges was adjourned until May 20 for Szczap to appear at Derry Magistrates Court via video link.
Abhinav Shukla Shares An Adorable Post For Rubina Dilaik As She Battles COVID-19; Calls Life Incomplete

After winning the trophy and title of Salman Khans reality show Bigg Boss 14, the gorgeous Rubina Dilaik reprised the beloved role of Soumya in her popular show Shakti  Astitva Ke Ehsaas Ki. Sadly, the actress recently contracted coronavirus and is now in quarantine for the next 17 days at her Shimla house. However, instead of being negative about the situation, Rubina is focusing on the silver lining-- she will be eligible to donate plasma soon after she recovers. While her husband Abhinav Shukla was supposed to travel to Shimla to meet her, he decided to stay back in Mumbai after she tested positive.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Abhinav Shukla (@ashukla09)

In an interview the actor had explained that Rubina is under quarantine and wont be able to meet anyone. So theres no point is making a trip all the way to Shimla to only wait for her quarantine period to end. However, he misses her very much and his latest post on social media is proof of the same. Along with a picture of his lonely toothbrush, Abhinav wrote an adorable caption which read: Life is incomplete without the other one ... @rubinadilaik get well soon baby. Subtle and sweet!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Abhinav Shukla (@ashukla09)

Abhinav and Rubina tied the nuptial knot back in 2018. During their stay in the Bigg Boss 14 house, they opened up about issues in their marriage and even revealed that they were contemplating divorce. However, during the show, they fell in love with each other all over again and emerged stronger than ever before. We wish Rubina a speedy recovery and hope the love birds reunite soon!
Jasmin Bhasin Opens Up About Battling Suicidal Thoughts, Says 'You Need To End That Battle With Yourself First'

Jasmin Bhasin had revealed in Bigg Boss 14 that she had once battled suicidal thoughts. The actress, who is currently dating her best friend Aly Goni, had revealed that she had wanted to end her life, but eventually, and thankfully, had overcome it. Now, in a recent interview, she has opened up all about it.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jasmin Bhasin (@jasminbhasin2806)

Talking to Bollywood Bubble, Jasmin said that it had been long time back and added, I went through that zone long ago in my life, when I had come to Mumbai and I was struggling. Woh ladai meri khud ke saath thi because kahin na kahin (It was a battle that I had to fight against myself because somewhere) I was losing confidence in myself. I thought I am flawed, my skin has flaws, I dont look good and thats why I face rejections every day.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jasmin Bhasin (@jasminbhasin2806)

So, how did she overcome it. Jasmin revealed, For me, the learning point is, you need to end that battle with yourself first. You need to accept yourself the way you are. You need to accept your flaws because your flaws make you unique and different from others, otherwise we will all look like same dolls in a toy shop. As long as you feel confident about yourself and have this determination that This is what I want to do, I will make sure I do it, at least I will give my 100% so that I do not feel guilty that I did not make that attempt, nothing and nobody can stop you.

Well, we are glad that she got over and is in a better mind space now.
The Superintendence-General (SG) of the Administrative Council for Economic Defense (Cade) has approved without restrictions the purchase of the towers of Telxius Torres (a subsidiary of Telefonica / Vivo) in Brazil by American Tower.

According to local media reports, Cade's decision was published in the Federal Official Gazette this Thursday, 29, after dispatch issued the previous day. The reports said that some competitors in the tower market wanted conditions to approve the deal.

Telefonica signed an agreement with American Tower in mid-January for the sale of the tower divisions in Europe and Latin America. The transaction, one of the most important in the history of the Spanish telecom company, allowed it to enter some 7,700 million euros at the closing.

It was configured in two parts: that of the assets of the Old Continent and those of Latin American territory. They both had different closings and schedules. The first has already come to an end in the regulatory journey.

Competitors of American Tower contested the transaction, but, according to the local media reports, Cade understood that, even though American Tower has more than 20% of the national market, there are not enough indications of concentration for anti-competitive actions.

Telxius Telecom is a company of Spanish group Telefonica, which has activities in Brazil in various sectors of telecommunications. Telefonica holds 50.1% of Telxius, which, according to the operator, will not be extinguished with the sale of the towers. The company will remain to manage about 100 thousand km of submarine cables belonging to the operator.
Iranian Foreign Minister Zarifs leaked tape: Revolutionary Guards and Soleimani sought to control Iranian diplomacy By Lt. Col. (ret.) Michael Segall

In a personal and revealing interview with Saeed Laylaz, a senior journalist-economist and advisor to former President Mohammad Khatami, who supports the reform camp, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif explains, in anguish, the depth of the involvement of Qassem Soleimani, the Quds Force commander who was assassinated, in Irans foreign policy. He stresses that as a result of this involvement and the pressure that Soleimani constantly exerted, Irans foreign policy (including toward Russia) always had to be sacrificed for the good of the battlefield (hinting at the IRGC), that is, the export of the revolution and Irans regional subversion. The interview, which was recorded a few months ago, was leaked to Persian-language broadcast networks outside of Iran and has also set off a storm at home and abroad. It unambiguously illustrates Irans regional order of priorities and the limited role of diplomacy in determining it. It also highlights Soleimanis central role in all the key decision-making processes in Iran, including those that take place in the Office of the Leader (Khamenei) and those that lead to policy decisions on Irans core concerns  the nuclear issue, the ballistic missile industry, political subversion, and exporting the revolution  that is, the pillars of the Islamic Republics hegemonic strategy. The interview also accurately reflects the longstanding rivalry in Irans domestic arena between, on the one hand, the IRGC and the Office of the Leader, and, on the other, the various government ministries, particularly the Foreign Ministry and the Intelligence Ministry, as well as the tense relationship between the conservative camp and the fading reform camp. The Iranian Foreign Ministry is charged with whitewashing the effects of Irans subversion, terror, and human rights violations and with moderating the Wests response to Irans malignant activity in the region in particular and in the world in general. It also turns out that the IRGC  which in fact dominates Irans security and economic issues  opposes the nuclear deal and keeps pursuing nuclear activity under its own aegis, while the Foreign Ministry serves as a fig leaf vis-a-vis the West and provides room for maneuver to that end. Thus, as part of the strategy of developing Irans nuclear program, the Iranian Foreign Ministrys role is to create a mirage of political activity that affords time and facilitates the nuclear activity. Sometimes, as Zarif acknowledges, the Foreign Ministry had to accept dictates from Soleimani. Why Was the Interview Leaked Now? Zarifs more-than-three-hour interview was leaked from within Iran to the BBC Persian channel in London and to Iran International, which broadcasts in Persian from London to Iran (and is identified with Saudi Arabia). This deliberate leak was carried out several days before the beginning of the appointed time for the registration of candidates for the Iranian presidential elections to be held on June 18. In recent weeks, a flurry of news items have claimed that Zarif is considering a run for president. Given his great popularity, the leak was most probably aimed at destroying his professional career and preventing him from running. At the same time, the conservative press has been waging a defamation campaign against Zarif and portraying him as the one responsible for the failed nuclear deal, because of which the Iranian economy has been very hard hit and the situation of the Iranian people has worsened. In one of his responses regarding the upcoming elections, Zarif said the conservatives and the IRGC believe they will win the presidency and then everything will be OK and they will solve all the problems. The main Iranian TV channel, IRTV2, says the leaking of the interview raises disturbing questions, both about its timing and its aims, and claims it may have originated with foreign intelligence services that seek to undermine the regimes stability. An IRTV2 reporter on security affairs, Ameneh Sadat Zabihpoor, called for a thorough investigation of the timing of the public airing of the dispute between Zarif and Soleimani. She said the leak could be related to attempts to create a rift as the June elections approach and thus distract the population from difficult problems and make them think  in a kind of psychological warfare  that Iran is in fact controlled by the IRGC and not by the government, thereby sowing discord. In response, the Foreign Ministry emphasized that the interview was recorded in March 2021 to document the history of Zarifs eight years as foreign minister and was not supposed to be made public until the end of President Rouhanis tenure. Although the Foreign Ministry did not explicitly accuse anyone of a deliberate leak, between the lines it hinted at elements in the conservative camp. IRGC Commanders Turn Every Issue into a Security Issue Zarif emphasizes throughout the interview that a minority group (meaning the IRGC commanders and their supporters in the Office of the Leader) act for their own interests, while turning every issue into a security issue. This group, he says, in addition to its power to disrupt diplomatic processes, also has the potential to create huge waves of support for itself. All through the interview, sounding angry and aggrieved, Zarif complains that the military people (clearly referring to the IRGC commanders and not to Irans standing army) assume the role of diplomacy and he asserts that they, in fact, have been the regimes diplomats even when there was a need to leave matters in the diplomats hands [i.e., the Foreign Ministry]. Zarif remarks that he did not necessarily agree with Soleimani about everything, but was forced to coordinate with him so as to prevent him from causing greater damage on foreign policy issues. In a clear tone of helplessness, Zarif said: Almost throughout my [eight-year] tenure as foreign minister, I was unable to tell the field commander [Soleimani] to do one thing or another because diplomacy required it. Instead, the opposite was the case: Almost every time I entered negotiations [with the West or other actors], it was Soleimani who would intervene and tell me to make use of one point or another. Zarif illustrates the problem in the context of a meeting he held with the Russian foreign minister: He came and told me to say that I want [Russia] to do one, two, three, four. That is, the real diplomatic activity I was supposed to engage in was sacrificed to promote one or another objective in Aleppo or Idlib. For example, in a tone of supplication almost to the point of tears, Zarif says it was demanded of Soleimani and the Quds Force not to use the flights of Irans national airline, Iran Air, for operational purposes in the war in Syria, but Soleimani refused. To My Great Surprise, John Kerry Informed Me of Israeli Attacks in Syria Zarif said that then-Secretary of State John Kerry (whom he met with Khameneis prior approval) told him in June 2016, after the nuclear deal, that we [the U.S.] have canceled the embargo on Iranian flights, but do you know that the number of your flights from Iran to Syria has grown six times? Zarif went on to say: Of course I did not know about that, but I asked Soleimani and he did not agree [to reduce the flights and did not agree to stop using the flights to support the war in Syria]. According to Zarif, even the president and the minister of civilian aviation were unaware of Soleimanis and the Quds Forces use of the Iranian airline for operational purposes in Syria. The Iranian foreign minister also revealed that, to our great surprise, Kerry informed him of at least 200 cases of Israeli attacks on IRGC targets in Syria. I as foreign minister did not know anything about this. The IRGC Acted Against the Implementation of the Nuclear Deal Zarif says that from the time the nuclear deal was reached in June 2015 until the beginning of its implementation in December that year, the IRGC commanders did all they could to derail this achievement. He refers, among other things, to the attacks (betrayal) by the IRGCs Basij force on the Saudi embassy in Tehran, which prompted a cutoff of ties between Tehran and Riyadh, and to Soleimanis visit to Moscow for a meeting with Putin, as two major steps taken by the conservatives to undermine the deal. Zarif discloses that the IRGC tried to thwart the 2015 nuclear deal and that Russia tried its best to prevent the signing of the JCPOA and didnt believe the agreement would be signed. In this regard, he added that Russia could strike Syria from the Mediterranean Seabut they chose to use Iranian airspace? All of this was because they intended to foil the JCPOA. Zarif notes that Soleimanis trip to Moscow was carried out without supervision or coordination with the Foreign Ministry. Instead, it was done in accordance with Russias desire in order to destroy the achievement of the Iranian Foreign Ministry. He says that Mr. Putin entered the meeting with me having decided in advance to intervene in the war in Syriaand dragged Iranian forces into the arena. The IRGC has claimed that it was Soleimani who convinced Putin, in a meeting that lasted two and a half hours, that Russia should intervene militarily in Syria. Fars News, affiliated with the IRGC, accused Zarif, under the headline: The Desk Jockeys False Narrative regarding the Man of Jihad and Resistance, of downplaying Soleimanis achievement in bringing Russia into the Syrian civil war, and maintained he was jealous of Soleimanis popularity among the people. Fars also said that Soleimani even was able to convince Hashemi Rafsanjani (Zarifs spiritual father) and Rouhanis government that Irans support for the regime in Syria would best serve the interests of the region and Iran. Denying Irans Involvement in Downing the Ukrainian Airliner In a different part of the interview, the Iranian foreign minister refers extensively to the scandalous issue of the downing of the Ukrainian plane over Tehran  on the same day (June 8, 2020) on which, in response to Soleimanis assassination, the IRGC launched a missile attack on the headquarters of U.S. forces in Iraq. At a time when the whole world already knew that the plane with its 176 passengers was hit by a missile [of the IRGC], I went and asked the Supreme National Security Council if it was really a missile of ours that hit the plane, requesting that they tell me the truth so we could heal the wounds in some way. But they answered me: No [we did not down the plane] and added, Go ahead, deny [Irans involvement] in a tweet, while they themselves had already known at least the day after the event, or, in my opinion, already several hours after the downing of the plane, that the missile was fired by an air-defense battery. When the interviewer insistently asks the foreign minister who was present at the meeting of the Supreme National Security Council, Zarif responds: No more than four or five people, including the secretary-general of the Supreme National Security Council [General Ali Shamkhani], the chief of staff [Mohammad Hossein Bakri], and another two or three. Zarif further commented that the U.S. received the information on the missile attack against the Ein al-Asad base in retaliation for the killing of Soleimani earlier than I did. That night, two Quds Force members went to the office of the Iraqi prime minister, about 45 minutes before the attack began, and told him that soon there would be a strike on an American base in Iraq, but I found out about it in the news. Tense Relations with President Ahmadinejad The Iranian foreign minister also recounted that when Mahmoud Ahmadinejad took office as president, he was Irans ambassador to the UN and received an order from the new presidents office to resign from the post. Khamenei, however, prevented that from happening, and he remained two more years in the position until he had had enough and demanded not to serve under the Ahmadinejad government. Regarding Ahmadinejads first trip as president for a speech to the UN General Assembly, Zarif says that immediately after he received Ahmadinejad at the airport, he informed the president of his timetable in New York. Ahmadinejad then said he wanted to be present at a meeting I was to hold with American senators, but I told him that as president he could not do so until he requested the agreement of the Leader, Khamenei, in advance. Zarif claims that Ahmadinejad merely made use of the slogan Death to America on behalf of his own interests, whereas he wants very much to forge ties with the Americans. In another part of the interview, Zarif notes that when, as a result of Ahmadinejads policy, the first UN resolution on sanctions on the sale of Iranian oil was passed, the world reached the conclusion that it did not really need Iranian oil, and that situation has continued to the present. IDF Lt.-Col. (ret.) Michael (Mickey) Segall, an expert on strategic issues with a focus on Iran, terrorism, and the Middle East, is a senior analyst at the Jerusalem Center for Public Affairs and at Acumen Risk Advisors. Home
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Photo by Brian Miller [enlarge] Seen here with construction nearly complete, in the fall of 2019, the Aura apartments are now almost fully leased.





Aura, the first of two separate apartment projects at the Village at Totem Lake, has sold for about $87.6 million, according to King County records. The seller at 12655 120th Ave. N.E. was an LP associated with Trinsic Residential Group of Dallas, which acquired its portion of the 26-acre former Totem Lake Mall in 2018 for $10 million. It's just east of Interstate 405 in Kirkland.





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REDMOND  The Bassett Home Furnishings store, at 2233 Bel-Red Road in Redmond, sold for $9 million, according to King County records.

The seller was Redmond Bellevue LLC, associated with the Weichman family, which had owned the property for decades





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Attorney General Todd Rokita is urging a Marion County judge to throw out the lawsuit filed Tuesday by Gov. Eric Holcomb that seeks to have a new Indiana law authorizing the General Assembly to convene during statewide emergencies without the governor's consent declared unconstitutional.

Rokita, a Republican originally from Munster, said in court documents Friday only the attorney general is empowered to file lawsuits on behalf of state officials, and he did not consent to Holcomb's lawsuit against the General Assembly or the governor's use of outside counsel to file it.

"A fundamental legal principle consistently understood and applied over several decades by both state and federal judges is that Indiana law vests the attorney general alone with authority to determine the states position on legal questions  including the constitutionality of House Enrolled Act 1123  and to direct the states representation in court," Rokita said.

WATCH NOW: Holcomb administration pushes back on legislative efforts to limit governor's emergency powers

Moreover, Rokita said the Indiana Constitution protects members of the General Assembly from civil lawsuits while the Legislature is in session and requires any case against a state lawmaker be postponed at least 30 days beyond the Legislature's final adjournment for the year.

He noted Holcomb's signature on House Enrolled Act 1372 Monday set Nov. 15 as the adjournment date for this year's legislative session, instead of the usual April 29, to enable lawmakers to return in the fall to complete the once-a-decade process of redrawing legislative district boundaries that couldn't get done earlier due to COVID-19 tabulation delays at the U.S. Census Bureau.

"The purported lawsuit is a nullity if the court follows controlling legal precedents and strikes the unauthorized appearances and pleadings. But if it does not, this lawsuit cannot continue any further (even for consideration of additional defenses) for yet another reason: All of the defendants are legislators, and the legislature is still in session," Rokita said.

The governor's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Rokita's filing. It previously said outside counsel was retained to avoid a conflict of interest for Rokita, since he cannot represent the governor and General Assembly simultaneously.

Rokita said the governor ignoring the attorney general's statutory role in resolving legal policy disagreements is a "threat to the stability and proper functioning of our divided and limited government as it would establish a precedent for governmental branches or officials to sue one another, at taxpayer expense, over abstract disagreements in governing principles."

In any case, Rokita said he believes the emergency session law is constitutional because the General Assembly is entitled to appoint by law the day for commencing its sessions and to fix by law the length and frequency of its sessions.

Holcomb contends the Indiana Constitution permits only the governor to call special sessions of the General Assembly once the Legislature has adjourned for the year.

The Republican chief executive said the provisions of the new law, allowing the General Assembly to convene itself for up to 40 days whenever its 16-member Legislative Council decides action is needed to respond to a statewide emergency, infringes on the governor's special session role and violates the separation of powers required by the Constitution.

WATCH NOW: Riding Shotgun with NWI Cops: Justin Dyer preview

The emergency session law took effect April 15 after both chambers of the Republican-controlled General Assembly voted to override the governor's April 9 veto and enact the new law notwithstanding his objections.

House Democratic Leader Phil GiaQuinta, D-Fort Wayne, said it's shameful Hoosier tax dollars are being spent on this "needless power struggle" between Statehouse Republicans.

"Too many times, we have watched as our colleagues across the aisle have forced through legislation with questionable constitutionality. It's yet another symptom of the Republican infighting we've been seeing all session," GiaQuinta said.

A similar lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of the emergency session law was filed Friday by John Whitaker, a retired attorney in Indianapolis who served as special counsel to Republican former Gov. Robert Orr during the 1980s.

Whitaker said his interest, as a taxpayer and a citizen, is "to redress the unconstitutional usurpation of the executive powers of the governor of the state of Indiana by the Indiana General Assembly and the resulting costs to taxpayers of unconstitutional legislative sessions."

"The Indiana Constitution sets limits that the General Assembly cannot cross. One of those limits is in Article 4, Section 9 which grants the governor the exclusive power to convene a special session when, and only when, in his opinion, the public welfare requires it. Any attempt by the General Assembly to call a special session itself is a prohibited exercise by one department of a function of another department," Whitaker said.

Rokita said his office is prepared to defend the emergency session statute against any appropriate constitutional challenge timely brought by an external party who claims a real, direct injury.

Attorney General's motion to strike complaint in Holcomb v. General Assembly

Holcomb v. General Assembly complaint

Whitaker v. Legislative Council complaint against HEA 1123

Gov. Eric Holcomb's veto message

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More than two thousand demonstrators rally on the plaza and lawn in front of New Hampshire's Statehouse Thursday, March 31, 2011 to protest proposed spending cuts and a provision that would strip public employees of their union protection when their contracts expire, in Concord, N.H.
On Friday evening, the Jeba checkpoint was attacked by unknown gunmen at a Damascus Government military post in the vicinity of the Jeba village in rural Quneitra city near the border with the occupied Golan, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

On the pretext of this, after midnight on Saturday, Damascus government forces targeted the town of Umm Batinah in the Middle Quneitra countryside, amidst an exodus of residents, in which hours were granted by Damascus Forces to storm the town.

On 20th March, the Syrian Observatory reported that two elements of the 112th Brigade of the Damascus Government forces had been shot by unknown gunmen in the Ghadir al-Bustan in Quneitra countryside near the Golan, killing them immediately.

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The inside story of the European Fund for Strategic Investments from 2015 to 2020 told through interviews with the Managing Director, Deputy Managing Director, members of the Investment Committee and final beneficiaries across Europe.

The architects of this 500 billion-plus programme, the head of the EU bank and the president of the European Commission, describe the genesis of this financial pillar of the Investment Plan for Europe. Then the people who ran one of the biggest economic stimulus programmes in history detail how they did itand what the lessons are for policymakers responding to new crises, including the economic shock caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The European Fund for Strategic Investments has been one of the good news stories to emerge in a decade of economic uncertainty. It has gone well beyond its highly ambitious target of 500 billion in mobilised investments. The Juncker Plan has made a strong contribution to the 14 million jobs created in the EU between 2015 and 2020. It has become a success in co-financing projects that otherwise might not have been carried through. It has also charted the path towards new ways of financing. This is not only the case in relatively conventional areas, such as infrastructure, but also in sectors like research and innovation or the contribution to climate change mitigation. This is exactly what makes EFSI so ground-breaking: responding to the needs of the market through continuous financial innovation.

The principle of the European Fund for Strategic Investments is here to stay. It has paved the way for its successor, the InvestEU programme, which is to be deployed under the 2021-2027 multiannual financial framework. This publication details why the programme was such a success.
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Facebook's Oversight Board has delivered its ruling on the company's indefinite ban on Donald Trump. After a delay, partially to review the more than 9,000 public comments people submitted to this case, the Oversight Board has announced that it'll release its decision on Trump's ban this Wednesday, May 5th, at 9AM ET.

The Oversight Board will announce its decision on the case concerning former US President Trump on its website at https://t.co/NNQ9YCrcrh on May 5, 2021 at approximately 9:00 a.m. EDT.  Oversight Board (@OversightBoard) May 3, 2021

Theoretically, this should be the final word on Trump's future on the platform  both Facebook and the Oversight Board have made it clear that the board's decisions are final and Facebook is unable to overturn them. Of course, if the board says that Trump's ban will stay in place, it's not hard to imagine the former president making a stink and trying to find an avenue to get back on Facebook.

Facebook first locked Trump out of his Facebook and Instagram accounts for 24 hours, shortly after the January 6th attack on the US Capitol. The company quickly decided to ban him indefinitely; it first said it would last at least until President Joe Biden's inauguration on January 20th. The day after the inauguration, Facebook announced its Oversight Board would decide if the suspension should be continued or not and that Trump was to stay removed from the platforms until that decision was made.

As of today, the Oversight Board has ruled on a total of eight cases, overturning Facebook's decision in six of them. The Trump case is a different animal, though  while these prior decisions were regarding specific posts on Facebook that were removed, the board hasn't yet ruled on something as broad as removing a user permanently, let alone one with such a high profile.
Last week, the United States Senate played host to a number of social media company VPs during hearings on the potential dangers presented by algorithmic bias and amplification. While that meeting almost immediately broke down into a partisan circus of grandstanding and grievance airing, Democratic senators did manage to focus somewhat on how these recommendation algorithms might contribute to the spread of online misinformation and extremist ideologies. The issues and pitfalls presented by social algorithms are well known and have been well documented. So what are we going to do about it?

I think in order to answer that question, there's something critical that needs to happen: We need more independent researchers being able to analyze platforms and their behavior, said Dr. Brandie Nonnecke, Director of the CITRIS Policy Lab at UC Berkeley, in an interview. Social media companies know that they need to be more transparent in what's happening on their platforms, but I'm of the firm belief that, in order for that transparency to be genuine, there needs to be collaboration between the platforms and independent peer reviewed, empirical research.

A feat that may more easily be imagined than realized, unfortunately. There's a little bit of an issue right now in that space where platforms are taking an overly broad interpretation of nascent data privacy legislation like the GDPR and the California Consumer Privacy Act are essentially not giving independent researchers access to the data under the claim of protecting data privacy and security, she said.

Even ignoring the fundamental black box issue  in that it may be impossible to tell how an AI that has internalized massive amounts of data is making its decisions, as Yavar Bathaee of the Harvard Journal of Law & Technology described it  the inner workings of these algorithms are often treated as business trade secrets.

AI that relies on machine-learning algorithms, such as deep neural networks, can be as difficult to understand as the human brain, Bathaee said. There is no straightforward way to map out the decision-making process of these complex networks of artificial neurons.

Take the Compas case from 2016 as an example. The Compas AI is an algorithm designed to recommend sentencing lengths to judges in criminal cases based on a number of factors and variables relating to the defendants life and criminal history. In 2016, that AI suggested to a Wisconsin court judge that Eric L Loomis be sent down for six years for eluding an officer. Because... reasons. Secret proprietary business reasons. Loomis subsequently sued the state, arguing that the opaque nature of the Compas AIs decision making process violated his constitutional due process rights as he could neither review nor challenge its rulings. The Wisconsin Supreme Court eventually ruled against Loomis, stating that hed have received the same sentence even in the absence of the AIs help.

But algorithms recommending Facebook groups can be just as dangerous as algorithms recommending minimum prison sentences  especially when it comes to the spreading extremism infesting modern social media.

Social media platforms use algorithms that shape what billions of people read, watch and think every day, but we know very little about how these systems operate and how theyre affecting our society," Sen. Chris Coons (D-Del.) told POLITICO ahead of the hearing. "Increasingly, were hearing that these algorithms are amplifying misinformation, feeding political polarization and making us more distracted and isolated.

While Facebook regularly publishes its ongoing efforts to remove the postings of hate groups and crack down on their coordination using its platform, even the companys own internal reporting argues that it has not done nearly enough to stem the tide of extremism on the site.

As journalist and author of Culture Warlords Talia Lavin points out, Facebooks platform has been a boon to hate groups recruiting efforts. In the past, they were limited to paper magazines, distribution at gun shows or conferences where they had to sort of get in physical spaces with people and were limited to avenues of people who were already likely to be interested in their message, she told Engadget.

Facebooks recommendation algorithms, on the other hand, have no such limitations  except when actively disabled to prevent untold anarchy from occurring during a contentious presidential election.

Certainly over the past five years, we've seen this rampant uptick in extremism that I think really has everything to do with social media, and I know algorithms are important, Lavin said. But they're not the only driver here.

Lavin notes the hearings testimony from Dr. Joan Donovan, Research Director at the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University, and points to the rapid dissolution of local independent news networks combined with the rise of a monolithic social media platform such as Facebook as a contributing factor.

You have this platform that can and does deliver misinformation to millions on a daily basis, as well as conspiracy theories, as well as extremist rhetoric, she continued. It's the sheer scale involved that has so much to do with where we are.

For examples of this, one only need look at Facebooks bungled response to Stop the Steal, an online movement that popped up post-election and which has been credited with fueling the January 6th insurrection of Capitol Hill. As an internal review discovered, the company failed to adequately recognize the threat or take appropriate actions in response. Facebooks guidelines are geared heavily toward spotting inauthentic behaviors like spamming, fake accounts, things of that nature, Lavin explained. They didn't have guidelines in place for the authentic activities of people engaging in extremism and harmful behaviors under their own names.

Stop the Steal is a really great example of months and months of escalation from social media spread, she added. You had these conspiracy theories spreading, inflaming people, then these sort of precursor events organized in multiple cities where you had violence on passers-by and counter-protesters. You had people showing up to those heavily armed and, over a similar period of time, you had anti-lockdown protests that were also heavily armed. That led to very real cross-pollination of different extremist groups  from anti-vaxxers to white nationalists  showing up and networking with each other.

Though largely useless when it comes to technology more modern than a Rolodex, some members of Congress are determined to at least make the attempt.

Caroline Brehman via Getty Images

In late March, a pair of prominent House Democrats, Reps. Anna Eshoo (CA-18) and Tom Malinowski (NJ-7), reintroduced their co-sponsored Protecting Americans from Dangerous Algorithms Act, which would hold large social media platforms accountable for their algorithmic amplification of harmful, radicalizing content that leads to offline violence.

When social media companies amplify extreme and misleading content on their platforms, the consequences can be deadly, as we saw on January 6th. Its time for Congress to step in and hold these platforms accountable. Rep. Eshoo said in a press statement. Thats why Im proud to partner with Rep. Malinowski to narrowly amend Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, the law that immunizes tech companies from legal liability associated with user generated content, so that companies are liable if their algorithms amplify misinformation that leads to offline violence.

In effect the Act would hold a social media company liable if its algorithm is used to amplify or recommend content directly relevant to a case involving interference with civil rights (42 U.S.C. 1985); neglect to prevent interference with civil rights (42 U.S.C. 1986); and in cases involving acts of international terrorism (18 U.S.C. 2333).

Should this Act make it into law, it could prove a valuable stick with which to motivate recalcitrant social media CEOs but Dr. Nonnecke insists that more research into how these algorithms function in the real world is necessary before we go back to beating those particular dead horses. It might even help legislators craft more effective tech laws in the future.

Having transparency and accountability benefits not only the public but I think it also benefits the platform, she said. If there's more research on what's actually happening on their system that research can be used to inform appropriate legislation regulation platforms don't want to be in a position where there's legislation or regulation proposed at the federal level that completely misses the mark.

There's precedent for collaboration like this: Social Science One between Facebook and researchers, Nonnecke continued. In order for us to address these issues around algorithmic amplification, we need more research and we need this trusted independent research to better understand what's happening.
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The Memorial Services celebrating and honoring the life of Susan Shorter, 72, of Enid, are pending under the direction of Brown-Cummings Funeral Home. Condolences may be shared with the family online at www.Brown-Cummings.com.
Josh Duggar cannot return home even if he is released on bail.

A few days after the U.S. Marshals assisted authorities in arresting Duggar, the attorney's office revealed another shocking update about the reality TV star.

According to US Attorney's Office (via Fox News), the 33-year-old "19 Kids and Counting" needs to be in a residence without a minor if he were to be freed on bond. This came after he pleaded not guilty to federal charges of receiving and collecting child pornography videos.

The news outlet added that he would not be allowed to return to his Arkansas home, as well. His wife, Anna, and six minor children currently reside in the residence. His eldest kid was born in 2009.

U.S. Chief Magistrate Judge Erin l Wiedemann detailed, "Given the nature of the charges against him, the court would likely require a third-party custodian that he could reside with and that would ensure compliance with conditions of bond so you all would need to get that line out and inform our probation office of who that person is so they could interview that person."

This is in response to the legal representative's request to release Duggar on bond. A pre-trial hearing will be held on July 1 before the official trial date on July 6.

During that trial, the federal district court judge will decide the sentence that follows U.S. sentencing Guidelines. Currently, Duggar faces charges by indictment. If he ever ends up convicted, he could face up to 20 years of imprisonment and $250,000 fines for each count.

Internet Users Want Josh Duggar to Face Charges

After the news emerged, internet users shared their sentiments online, with most of them suggesting that Duggar deserves to stay behind bars.

One commenter said, "I really hope that his poor children have not had to endure any of the abuse that he inflicted on his four sisters."

READ ALSO: Tristan Thompson Says Heartbreaking Statement About Khloe Kardashian: 'She's Not My Type'

"hopefully he will get the same treatment he rightfully deserves in general population," another one added.

Another one penned, "I also hope they catch these disgusting animals making kiddie porn.How awful to do that to kids.Then let alone watch it.So many sick people in our World.Hell awaits.'

Duggar has a history of sexually abusing his sisters. Meanwhile, another woman revealed that she became one of Duggar's victims, too.

READ MORE: [REPORT] Lady Gaga Alleged Dognappers Plead Not Guilty of Charges Following Arrest

See Now: Famous Actors Who Turned Down Iconic Movie Roles
"Falcon and the Winter Soldier" writer Malcolm Spellman recently revealed some bad news about Chris Evans' character, Steve Rogers.

Following the events on "Avengers: Endgame," fans expected that "Falcon and the Winter Soldier" would share at least a glimpse of what happened to Rogers after passing his shield. However, the Disney Plus series did not disclose more information about the notable superhero.

After the second series on Phase 4 ended, Spellman revealed that he and everyone in the team are clueless about Rogers' whereabouts.

Where is Steve Rogers?

In an interview with Inverse, Malcolm divulged that neither he nor the rest of "Falcon and the Winter Soldier" writers has an idea where Steve Rogers is.

Although they kept on talking about him through the series, they never got the chance to discover more details about the first Captain America.

"I've got to tell you the truth, my friend. Marvel won't tell me what happened to Steve, so we were able to write whatever we wanted because we don't know. We're wondering if Steve's on the moon too, you know what I'm saying?" he said.

In "Avengers: Endgame," Hulk sent the 2023 version of Captain America back in time to put all the stones back before returning to the current timeline. However, the screenwriters revealed that the character jumped to 1948 afterward.

Meanwhile, Malcolm addressed in the same interview that he was surprised when the series' title changes to "Captain America and the Winter Soldier" in the end credits sequence.

Since "Falcon" changed into "Captain America," the interviewer also asked the showrunner whether he also planned to change Bucky's Winter Soldier.

"I haven't spoken to Marvel about whether they considered changing Bucky's name too, but my gut tells me the reason it still says "and the Winter Soldier" is simply because they wanted to play with the poetry of a title you've been hearing," he explained.

The writer added that if the team changed the whole title, nothing would ever be the same.

With the success of the duo on "Falcon and the Winter Soldier," Malcolm realized that Bucky has become Sam's family now.

His comments came after the series director Kari Skogland referred to Mackie's character as the best Black Captain America. Fans also applauded the series for breaking numerous stigma and promoting kindness in all people of color.

See Now: Famous Actors Who Turned Down Iconic Movie Roles
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The competition for Season 19 of American Idol is already shaping up to be fierce. This season, Cassandra Coleman is one of several talented artists competing for the coveted award. Unfortunately, she just got eliminated during the Top 10 showdown, held on May 2.

Cassandra went to Los Angeles to audition. She performed The Killers' "The Way It Was" and OneRepublic's "Apologize" with Timbaland. She advanced to the next round after all three judges voted "yes."

Cassandra told the judges then that she doesn't normally put on a display. Even singing in front of her family makes her anxious. She, on the other hand, nailed her audition. Cassandra has "a new voice the world has never heard before," according to Luke Bryan.

Cassandra was included in the Genre Challenge's "Indie-Folk" category, alongside Christina Daugherty, Hunter Metts, and Graham DeFranco. She was later seen singing "Too Near" by Alex Clare in a duet with Wyatt Pike called "The Lass & The Lad." Both contestants made it to the next round.

Cassandra performed "Running With the Wolves" by Aurora during the Showstoppers Round. Following that, during the Final Judgment, the judges informed her that she had done enough to qualify for the Top 24 semifinals.

READ ALSO: Arthur Gunn 2021 Comeback: 5 Things To Know About 'American Idol' Season 18's Runner Up

Here are 8 things to more more about the Barefoot Diva (Courtesy of TVOM, and The Reality TV)

1. Birthday, Age: She is a 24-year-old Columbia, Tennessee native. Nashville is only 45 minutes away. Her birthday, however is unknown.

2. Cassandra has a channel on YouTube. She's been posting covers for the past eight years! Justin Bieber's "As Long As You Love Me" was her first cover. Her most famous video is a cover of Jasmine Thompson's song "Willow."

3. She is interested in photography. She likes black and white pictures, as well as those with a retro feel.

4. Cassandra has frequently urged her fans to sign up for Smule, an app that allows users to sing karaoke-style songs with others.

5. Her Instagram account has been confirmed. On the social media website, Cassandra has nearly 70,000 followers as of this writing. For someone who has yet to release original music, this is very impressive.

6. Cassandra currently works as a barista in a coffee shop, which seems to be a requirement for a successful career as an entertainer. She loves her work, but she does not want to stay there indefinitely.

7. Cassandra's voice has received a lot of attention so far, but she's also a talented songwriter who enjoys expressing herself through lyrics. She doesn't seem to have published any music yet, but maybe we'll get to hear one of her originals during the competition.

8. While we don't know anything about Cassandra's religious views, the fact that she has a Bible verse in her Instagram bio indicates that her religion is important to her.

ALSO READ: Who is Vladislav Ivanov 'Lelush'? Handsome Russian Forced to Join a Chinese Reality TV Show Was Finally Voted Out: 'I'm Finally Getting off Work'

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"Lucifer" fans couldn't wait for season 5B to start airing this month.

Months before, fans have already been speculating about one major death that will happen on the show.

With season 6 being the final season for the hit Netflix show, it has been tipped that the next major death on the series would be Dan Espinoza because of one major clue.

Detective Douche Dan Espinoza played by Kevin Alejandro's character is said to be meeting his demise pretty soon.

His rivalry with Lucifer, played by Tom Ellis, came to a shock when Dan discovered Lucifer's true devil identity.

In "Lucifer" season 5A, Lucifer and Dan have been butting heads, especially since the short-tempered detective's ex-wife, Chloe Decker played by Lauren German, became a possible love interest for Lucifer.

On Reddit, fans are thinking that Dan is also going to die on the second part of season five to make way for the devil to become a new father figure for Dan and Chloe's daughter Trixie, played by Scarlett Esteves.

One Reddit user said, "So it's common knowledge that the main character is going to die in season 5B."

"It's a popular belief that Dan is that character. Dan makes perfect sense to most people, it would complete his story arch to die a heroic death and join Charlotte in heaven."

Dan dated Goddess, who was possessing Charlotte Richards, played by Tricia Heifer in season two. She died on season three after being pierced by Pierce / Cain played by Tom Welling.

READ ALSO: Johnny Depp 'Fantastic Beasts' Replacement Mads Mikkelsen Shares How He's Owning Grindelwald

'Lucifer' Season 6 Spoiler: Will There Be Major Character Deaths?

D.B. Woodside, who plays Amenediel on the show, has confirmed that the entire cast of Netflix's "Lucifer" will be present until the eighth episode of the final season.

Woodside, who is directing the eighth episode of the ten-episode of season six.

In an interview with TVInsider, Woodside opened up about his time behind the camera for the episode "Save the Devil, Save the World."

His comments seemed to have revealed that there will be no major deaths in the series.

"Mine is the last episode we will get to see the entire cast, all of the characters... together all at the same time for most of the episode."

He also teased that season six, episode eight will be a "tear-jerker" despite not having any deaths.

"There's no easy way to say it, it's sad. This is a cast that loves each other."

Many have already believed that either Dan Espinoza or Chloe Decker will be dying on the show.

With Woodside's comments, viewers flocked to Reddit to speculate what his tease for the eighth episode could mean for the remaining episodes.

One Redditor said, "Just because a person dies, doesn't mean they are gone."

"We've seen Lucifer die twice, and throughout the show twice we have seen previously dead people come back."

"Lucifer" season 5B will be released on May 28. There's no release date yet for "Lucifer" season six.

READ MORE: Arthur Gunn 2021 Comeback: 5 Things To Know About 'American Idol' Season 18's Runner Up

See Now: Famous Actors Who Turned Down Iconic Movie Roles
NASCAR lost one of its greatest drivers after Eric McClure untimely passed away.

This week, multiple news outlets revealed McClure's death after his family confirmed his passing on Sunday. The former NASCAR driver was 42.

His family said, "The family of Eric Wayne McClure, former NASCAR driver, announces with great sorrow his passing on Sunday. They would like to thank everyone for their prayers and support during this very difficult time."

According to Associated Press, the Washington County Sheriff's office sent his body to Roanoke for an autopsy to determine the real cause of his death.

Meanwhile, NASCAR released a statement to pay tribute to the late driver.

"We are saddened to learn of the passing of former driver and (team) owner Eric McClure. NASCAR extends its deepest condolences to Eric's family and friends," NASCAR said in a statement, as quoted by The Guardian.

McClure still updated his social networking account one day before his death. Thus, his death somewhat shocked everyone.

No further details about his funeral have been disclosed by his family.

Eric McClure's Cause of Death

While McClure's cause of death is yet to be determined, it is worth noting that he faced several issues in the past years. In fact, this caused him to say goodbye to the track earlier than expected.

Throughout his career, he suffered from concussions twice. Later on, the Chilhowie, Virginia native disclosed that he had been feeling multiple effects including headaches, nausea, dizziness, sensitivity to light, depression, forgetfulness, and dizziness.

He raced for the last time in 2016. Prior to his retirement, he divulged in 2013 that he had been diagnosed with acute renal failure. Six years later, he began receiving treatments for kidney failure in both organs.

READ ALSO: Where is Steve Rogers? MCU Brings Bad News About Chris Evans' Titular Role

Although his career was cut short, McClure surely flew in the track beautifully. He made 288 career starts through the 14 seasons. He made his career-best finish at Daytona in 2013.

Prior to his sudden passing, McClure faced a legal battle over a misdemeanor domestic violence charge against his wife. Per Miranda McClure, the former NASCAR driver choked and hit her in front of their children. Fortunately, their nine-year-old daughter called 911 to save her.

He pleaded not guilty to the charge, but he needed to complete 12 months of active probation despite that. Under the order, McClure underwent substance abuse counseling and mental health assessment.

READ MORE: LA Lakers' LeBron James Shares Worrying Effect of Injury [Report]

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2021-05-03

Maeci

The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Luigi Di Maio, will take part in the web conference Future Managers  Exports as a lever for revitalising the Made in Italy brand, an event sponsored by FederManager. The meeting will address issues related to the theme of internationalisation.
2021-05-02

Maeci

Today, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Luigi di Maio, has received the Iraqi Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Fuad Hussein.



Minister Di Maio has first renewed his condolences for the tragic fire at the Ibn Al-Khatib hospital in Baghdad. He has then reiterated Italy's ongoing commitment to supporting Iraqi institutions and people to fully stabilise the country, which is crucial for the entire region.



Minister Di Maio has highlighted Italy's contribution to the anti-Daesh Coalition and the NATO mission and has condemned the recent rocket launch at Erbil airport.



Minister Di Maio has reaffirmed the importance of bilateral cooperation, recalling the presence of Italian companies in the country and Italy's commitment to culture and development cooperation, for which Iraq is a priority country.

Finally, the two Ministers have reviewed some of the main issues of regional interest, beginning with Iran.
2021-05-02

Maeci

Minister Luigi Di Maio will attend the G7 Foreign and Development Ministers meeting, scheduled to take place in London from 3 to 5 May.



During the Summit, the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of France, Germany, Italy, Canada, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States, together with the High Representative of the European Union, will review the leading international policy issues - including Afghanistan; the Iranian dossier; the fight against terrorism in the Horn of Africa and the Sahel; the Navalny case; developments in Ukraine and Belarus; and the Western Balkans.



Minister Di Maio will introduce the issue of Libya, confirming Italy's commitment to supporting the stabilisation of the country. The Minister of Foreign Affairs will also present the Syrian dossier, emphasising Rome's support for UN Special Envoy Pedersen's actions.



During the Development session, Minister Di Maio will highlight Italy's commitment, as G20 President, to combating the increasingly severe impact of climate change, especially in favour of the most vulnerable countries and supporting a sustainable economic recovery that combines adaptation and resilience.
When speaking of global warming and greenhouse gases, people immediately think of carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) as the main villain. However, the truth is that there are other gases produced by human activities that are much worse. Such is the case for nitrous oxide (N2O), which has received less attention in spite of its 300-fold greater impact on global warming than CO 2 . "Gas separation technology focusing on CO 2 has been the subject of much study, whereas the corresponding research on N2O recovery remains insufficient," remarks Prof. Jiho Yoon from Korea Maritime and Ocean University.

Prof. Yoon's research group has been focused on finding a feasible and energy-effective approach to separate and capture N2O from gas mixtures found in today's industries. In their latest study, which was published in Environmental Science and Technology, they presented a new concept for greenhouse gas separation using hydroquinone (HQ) clathrate. Clathrates are a type of crystalline compound in which small molecules called guests are trapped inside appropriately sized holes or cages formed by host molecules.

Using a wide variety of techniques, including X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and nuclear magnetic resonance, the scientists fully characterized two of the main crystalline forms of HQ, called -HQ and -HQ. They also analyzed the gas storage capacity and formation kinetics of both types, shedding light on the structure-driven selectivity of each form towards different gases.

It turns out that HQ clathrate behaves markedly differently depending on the concentration of N2O when subjected to a N2O/N2 mixture. For an N2O concentration below 20%, -HQ traps only nitrogen (N 2 ) molecules, acting like a highly selective molecular sieve. Conversely, when exposed to higher concentrations of N 2 O, -HQ transforms into -HQ, which primarily encages N 2 O molecules. Inspired by this newly found dual-function--or "Janus"-- behavior of HQ clathrate, the scientists developed a novel concept for greenhouse gas separation. Their stepwise process involves using -HQ across multiple chambers to sequentially obtain a purer and purer N 2 O, reaching a final concentration of about 97%. Meanwhile, -HQ can be used to remove N 2 from gas mixtures to help reach the initially required N 2 O concentration above 20%.

This study marks the first time an organic clathrate was used for N 2 O separation. Prof. Yoon highlights that their novel approach is applicable at room temperature and atmospheric pressure, which would make its adoption more feasible in the industry. "Our approach to N 2 O separation via clathrate formation may offer the dual benefits of greenhouse gas control and considerable energy savings, making it a promising option in terms of energy consumption and capital cost," he concludes.

Let us hope that this technology is further developed, in order to secure a better future for our planet.

###

Reference

Authors: Jiyeong Jang (1), Sol Geo Lim (1), Jae Hak Jeong (2), Appu Vengattoor Raghu (2), Jong-Won Lee (3), Minjun Cha (2), Sanehiro Muromachi (4), Yoshitaka Yamamoto (4), and Ji-Ho Yoon (1,2)

Title of original paper: Recovery of N 2 O: Energy-Efficient and Structure-Driven Clathrate-Based Greenhouse Gas Separation

Journal: Environmental Science and Technology

DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.0c06233

Affiliations:

(1) Department of Convergence Study on Ocean Science and Technology, Ocean Science and Technology (OST) School, Korea Maritime and Ocean University

(2) Department of Energy and Resources Engineering, Korea Maritime and Ocean University

(3) Department of Environmental Engineering, Kongju National University

(4) Energy Process Research Institute (EPRI), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST)

About National Korea Maritime & Ocean University

South Korea's most prestigious university for maritime studies, transportation science and engineering, the National Korea Maritime & Ocean University is located on an island in Busan. The university was established in 1945 and since then has merged with other universities to currently being the only post-secondary institution that specializes in maritime sciences and engineering. It has four colleges that offer both undergraduate and graduate courses.

Website: http://www. kmou. ac. kr/ english/ main. do

About the author

Dr. Ji-Ho Yoon is a Full Professor of the Department of Energy and Resources Engineering at Korea Maritime and Ocean University (KMOU). The central theme of Dr. Yoon's research group is the use of the physicochemical and engineering concepts to answer important fundamental questions in physical science and environmental issues. Before joining KMOU, he worked as a JSPS fellow at AIST (Japan) and as a senior researcher at LG Chemical and Korea Electric Power Research Institute. He also served as a Committee Secretary of the IEA Greenhouse Gas R&D Program at the United Nations for 6 years (1996-2002).
A world first study within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park has found limited fishing zones (yellow zones) are still important conservation and fisheries management tools when paired with no-fishing zones.

Lead author Dr April Hall, from the ARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies at James Cook University (Coral CoE at JCU), said partially protected yellow zones still contain healthy numbers of reef fish targeted for recreational and commercial fishing. These include coral trout, tropical snappers, emperors and tuskfish.

Yellow zones limit, rather than prohibit, fishing through fishing gear restrictions. For example, limited line fishing is allowed with one rod or line and one hook per person.

"We found the numbers of popular fishing targets in these yellow zones are up to 69 percent of what they are in the adjacent no-take green zones," Dr Hall said.

Green zones, where all fishing is prohibited, are more frequently studied areas. Their benefits to conservation and flow-on fisheries are already well-established.

Though there were fewer fishing targets in the yellow zones, both yellow and green zones had similar abundances of non-target fishes and richness of fish species overall.

"Both green and yellow zones supported a great diversity of fish species," Dr Hall said.

Yellow zones were set aside as partially protected areas in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority's (GBRMPA) 2004 zoning plan. Co-author Darren Cameron, from GBRMPA, said the Great Barrier Reef is one of the world's largest and most comprehensively studied marine parks. However, this research is the first to specifically address yellow zones.

"We found yellow zones, in conjunction with green zones, are an effective management tool. They contribute to marine park conservation goals whilst positively supporting fishing opportunities," Mr Cameron said.

The study took place within the Hinchinbrook and Dunk Island region. The area has outstanding biodiversity and cultural heritage. It is an important area for recreational, commercial and indigenous fishing. The study also considers zoning on inshore reefs, an area which has previously received little attention.

The project is a collaboration between Coral CoE at JCU and GBRMPA, as part of Dr Hall's Advance Queensland Post-Doctoral Fellowship. The analyses form part of her broader project evaluating yellow zones across the Great Barrier Reef.

"Data from our project will be critical for conservation and fisheries alike," Dr Hall said.

###

PAPER

Hall A, Cameron D, Kingsford M. 2021. 'Partially protected areas as a management tool on inshore reefs'. Rev Fish Biol Fisheries. DOI: 10.1007/s11160-021-09654-y

CONTACTS

April Hall (Coral CoE at JCU, Townsville, Australia)

P: +61 (0) 458 565 194

E: april.hall@jcu.edu.au

Darren Cameron (GBRMPA, Townsville, Australia)

P: +61 (0) 438375569

E: Darren.Cameron@gbrmpa.gov.au

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

Melissa Lyne (Coral CoE at JCU, Sydney, Australia)

P: +61 (0) 415 514 328

E: melissa.lyne@jcu.edu.au

---

What is a Yellow Zone?

Fishing activities allowed in a Conservation Park (Yellow) Zone include:

* Limited line fishing (one hand-held rod or one hand-held line per person, with no more than one hook attached to that line)

* Trolling (no more than three lines per person and up to six hooks combined total per person)

* Restriction on the number of commercial fishing tender vessels

* Limited spearfishing (snorkel only)

* Bait netting

* Limited crabbing (four crab pots, collapsible traps or dillies)

* Limited collecting (includes oysters and bait, excludes take of coral, live or dead and anemones).
PHILADELPHIA - Belief in conspiracies about the COVID-19 pandemic increased through the early months of the U.S. outbreak among people who reported being heavy users of conservative and social media, a study by Annenberg Public Policy Center (APPC) researchers has found.

Prior APPC research found that people who regularly used conservative or social media during the early months of the pandemic were more likely to report believing in a group of COVID-19 conspiracies. The current study expands on that, finding that a reliance on conservative or social media actually predicted an increase in conspiracy beliefs from March to July 2020.

From March to July 2020, for example, the share of conservative media users who reported believing that the Chinese government created the coronavirus as a bioweapon rose from 52% to 66%. Conservative media included sources such as Fox News, Rush Limbaugh, Breitbart News, One America News, and the Drudge Report.

Further, these increases in conspiracy beliefs were associated with less mask wearing and decreased intentions to get a vaccine when it became available, according to the study, published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research.

"The media played a role in the promotion or reduction of conspiracy beliefs," said Dan Romer, research director of the Annenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania, who co-authored the study with APPC Director Kathleen Hall Jamieson. "There were media sources that hindered the ability of the country to confront the pandemic."

Although some social media platforms said they downgraded or removed false or misleading content about the pandemic, the ongoing use of social media was also correlated with an increased belief in COVID-19 conspiracies.

"The major social media platforms are playing Whac-A-Mole with COVID conspiracy purveyors," Jamieson said. "Block their imaginings in one place and they reappear in another."

A Chinese bioweapon and other COVID-19 conspiracy beliefs

The researchers conducted an Annenberg Science Knowledge (ASK) survey using a national U.S. probability sample in March 2020 and again in July 2020 with the same group of 840 adults. The respondents were asked about three conspiracy beliefs, media use, steps taken to prevent the spread of the virus, and their intentions to be vaccinated, among other things.

In July, the researchers found these levels of overall acceptance of the conspiracy beliefs, with the overall sample rating them either "definitely true" or "probably true":

17% of U.S. adults reported believing that "the pharmaceutical industry created the coronavirus to increase sales of its drugs and vaccines," up from 15% in March;

32% reported believing that some in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) "are exaggerating the danger posed by the coronavirus to damage the Trump presidency," up from 24% in March; and

38% reported believing that "the coronavirus was created by the Chinese government as a biological weapon," up from 28% in March.

From March to July 2020, conservative media users' belief that the pharmaceutical industry created the virus rose from 13% to 28%, and that some in the CDC were exaggerating the danger of the virus to damage the Trump presidency went from 34% to 61%.

In 2020, Fox News host Tucker Carlson, for instance, frequently discussed the conspiracy theory that the novel coronavirus was bioengineered in a Chinese lab. And Rush Limbaugh alleged that "the coronavirus is being weaponized as yet another element to bring down Donald Trump" and that "it probably is a ChiCom [Chinese Communist] laboratory experiment that is in the process of being weaponized."

Mainstream news sources

While the use of conservative media and social media were associated with increased belief in conspiracies, use of the mainstream print media had the opposite association. The researchers found that regular use of the mainstream print media such as the Associated Press, New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and Washington Post predicted a decline in these conspiracy beliefs, which was related to greater mask wearing and greater intentions to get vaccinated.

"When mainstream news treats conspiracy theories, it is to raise concerns about the effects of accepting them, not to legitimize them," Romer said.

People who relied on mainstream television news (such as ABC, NBC, and CBS News) didn't exhibit any change in their beliefs in conspiracies after controlling for their other media use. "People who get a lot of information from mainstream TV news were also more likely to want to be vaccinated and were more likely to wear masks, but that wasn't related to whether or not they believed in conspiracies," said Romer. "It operated independently."

The findings illustrate the importance of mainstream broadcast TV news in informing the country about effective means of confronting the pandemic during the months from March to July 2020.

The media and public health authorities

The researchers suggested that the findings "point to the need for greater efforts on the part of commentators, reporters, and guests on conservative media to report verifiable information about the pandemic. The results also suggest that social media platforms need to be more aggressive in downgrading, blocking, and counteracting claims about COVID-19 vaccines, claims about mask wearing, and conspiracy beliefs that have been judged problematic by public health authorities."

At the same time, the researchers said, public health authorities seeking to prevent the spread of the virus "should seek opportunities to present accurate information about the pandemic to users" of conservative and social media. Reaching users of mainstream news media is also important because they were "either less likely to subscribe to conspiracy beliefs (in the case of print) or more likely to adopt protective behavior (in the case of broadcast television news)."

###

"Patterns of Media Use, Strength of Belief in COVID-19 Conspiracy Theories, and the Prevention of COVID-19 From March to July 2020 in the United States: Survey Study" was published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research on April 27, 2021.

The Annenberg Public Policy Center was established in 1993 to educate the public and policy makers about communication's role in advancing public understanding of political, science, and health issues at the local, state, and federal levels.
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New research shows that patients who have had contact with the hospital due to serious glandular disease have a greater risk of subsequently developing depression. The study from iPSYCH is the largest yet to show a correlation between glandular fever and

New research shows that patients who have had contact with the hospital due to serious glandular disease have a greater risk of subsequently developing depression. The study from iPSYCH is the largest yet to show a correlation between glandular fever and depression.

The vast majority of Danes have had glandular fever - also called mononucleosis - before adulthood. And for the vast majority of them, the disease can be cured at home with throat lozenges and a little extra care. But for some, the disease is so serious that they need to visit the hospital.

A new research result now shows that precisely those patients who have been in contact with the hospital in connection with their illness, have a greater risk of suffering a depression later.

"Our study shows that it is associated with a forty per cent greater relative risk of developing depression, if the patient has been in contact with a hospital due to glandular fever," says Professor and Research Director Michael Eriksen Benros from the Mental Health Centre, Copenhagen, the University of Copenhagen and Aarhus University, who is behind the study. Demonstrates a correlation

The risk was considerable for up to four years after the infection.

"It is well-known that mononucleosis infection can cause long-term fatigue afterwards, and we can now see that there is also an increased risk of developing actual depression, which requires contact with the hospital. Fortunately, this was only the case for 1 out of 35 with mononucleosis infection within the study's follow-up, he says.

The study is a register-based study which has followed 1,440,590 Danes, of whom 12,510 had contact with the hospital due to glandular fever, and of these, 358 - corresponding to three per cent - subsequently developed depression that required hospital contact.

"Previous studies of the correlation between glandular fever and subsequent depression have primarily been small studies and the correlation has therefore been unclear. This study is the first major study able to demonstrate the correlation with a subsequent risk of depression with great statistical strength," says the lead author of the study, Nina Vindegaard from the Mental Health Centre, Copenhagen. Affects young people

Glandular fever affects young people aged 10-25 years in particular, and symptoms include fatigue, pain in the neck, fever and swollen lymph nodes on the neck, often accompanied by fatigue in the months following. It is also often young people who come into contact with the hospital because their symptoms are serious.

"This knowledge is important - both for the patient and their parents, but also to a great extent for general practitioners - as there is an increased risk of depression after the infection," explains Nina Vindegaard.

According to Michael Eriksen Benros, part of the explanation for the increased risk may be that the brain is affected by the infection:

"We know that mononucleosis infection can lead to long-term fatigue, but the actual underlying mechanisms for how this happens to a greater extent for this particular infection compared to many other infections haven't been identified. The general hypotheses are that it happens through activation of the immune system, which may also lie behind the increased risk of depression," he says.

Background for the results

The register-based study followed 1.44 million Danes born between 1977-2005, with 12,510 of these having had contact with the hospital contact with mononucleosis. Mononucleosis infection was associated with a forty percent increased relative risk of subsequently developing depression. Relative risk is the risk of an undesired outcome in the treatment group divided by the same risk in the control group.

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The study was carried out in collaboration between Associate Professor Liselotte Petersen, The National Centre for Register-based Research, Aarhus University, Professor Sren Dalsgaard, The National Centre for Register-based Research, Aarhus University and Consultant Bodil Lyng-Rasmussen, The Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Aalborg University Hospital.

The study is financed by the Lundbeck Foundation.

The scientific article can be read in Brain, Behavior, and Immunity.

Contact

Professor, Research Director, MD, PhD, Michael Eriksen Benros

Mental Health Centre Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital

University of Copenhagen

and Aarhus University.

Direct tel.: (+45) 2625 5239

benros@dadlnet.dk

Nina Vindegaard

MD, PhD student

Mental Health Centre Copenhagen, Mental Health Services, The Capital Region of Denmark

Direct tel.: (+45) 6014 5396

nina.soerensen.03@regionh.dk
Individuals living with severe Alzheimer's disease showed remarkable improvements in behaviour and cognition within days of receiving an innovative new treatment that delivered low doses of radiation, a recent Baycrest-Sunnybrook pilot study found.

"The primary goal of a therapy for Alzheimer's disease should be to improve the patient's quality of life. We want to optimize their well-being and restore communication with family and friends to avoid social isolation, loneliness and under-stimulation. Although the study was a small pilot and should be interpreted with caution, our results suggest that low-dose radiation therapy may successfully achieve this," says Dr. Morris Freedman, scientist at Baycrest's Rotman Research Institute, head of the division of neurology at Baycrest and senior author of the study.

The study was a clinical follow-up to a 2015 case report about a patient in hospice with Alzheimer's disease. After being treated several times with radiation to her brain, she showed such significant improvements in cognition, speech, movement and appetite that she was discharged from the hospice to a long-term care home for older adults.

High doses of radiation are known to have harmful effects on our health. However, low doses, such as those used for diagnostic CT scans, can help the body protect and repair itself.

"Numerous neurological disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, are thought to be caused in part by oxidative stress that damages all cells, including those in the brain. We have natural protection systems to combat the damage, but they become less effective as we get older. Each dose of radiation stimulates our natural protection systems to work harder - to produce more antioxidants that prevent oxidative damage, to repair more DNA damage and to destroy more mutated cells," says Dr. Jerry Cuttler, a retired Atomic Energy of Canada scientist. He has been researching the effects of radiation on health for more than 25 years and is the lead author of the study.

In this study, published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, four individuals living with severe Alzheimer's disease were given three treatments of low-dose radiation, each spaced two weeks apart. A CT scanner at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre was employed to provide the treatments, with the supervision and support of Dr. Sandra Black, senior scientist and neurologist, and Dr. Sean Symons, radiologist-in-chief, both at Sunnybrook. The researchers used standardized tests and observation to record changes in the patients' communication and behaviour after the treatment. Most importantly, they collected information (descriptions, photos and videos) from the patients' spouse, children and caregivers.

Remarkably, three of the four individuals showed improvements within one day of the first treatment, with their relatives reporting increased alertness and responsiveness, recognition of loved ones, mobility, social engagement, mood and more.

Two days after the first treatment, the son of one of the patients reported, "When I said hello, she looked at me and said, 'Hello dear.' She hadn't said this to me in years!"

The daughter of another patient noted: "I had an amazing visit with my dad this evening. I'm speechless from last night. He was excited to see me - he spoke to me right away and gave me multiple kisses - real kisses like years ago. He was clapping his hands to the music. My mom agreed it's been years since he has done this. Everyone is amazed."

The results of this study offer hope for those with severe Alzheimer's disease and their loved ones. However, it is important to note that this was a small pilot study with some limitations, including missing a placebo group. Future research is needed to examine the effects of this novel therapy in larger clinical trials.

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Dr. Freedman, senior author, was supported in part by the Saul A. Silverman Family Foundation as part of the Canada International Scientific Exchange Program (MF), and the Morris Kerzner Memorial Fund.

About Baycrest

Baycrest is a global leader in geriatric residential living, healthcare, research, innovation and education, with a special focus on brain health and aging. Baycrest is home to a robust research and innovation network, including one of the world's top research institutes in cognitive neuroscience, the Rotman Research Institute; the scientific headquarters of the Canadian Consortium on Neurodegeneration in Aging, Canada's largest national dementia research initiative; and the Baycrest-powered Centre for Aging + Brain Health Innovation, a solution accelerator focused on driving innovation in the aging and brain health sector. Fully affiliated with the University of Toronto, Baycrest provides excellent care for older adults combined with an extensive clinical training program for the next generation of healthcare professionals. Through these initiatives, Baycrest has remained at the forefront of the fight to defeat dementia as our organization works to create a world where every older adult enjoys a life of purpose, inspiration and fulfilment. Founded in 1918 as the Toronto Jewish Old Folks Home, Baycrest continues to embrace the long-standing tradition of all great Jewish healthcare institutions to improve the well-being of people in their local communities and around the globe. For more information please visit: http://www. baycrest. org

About Baycrest's Rotman Research Institute

The Rotman Research Institute at Baycrest is a premier international centre for the study of human brain function. Through generous support from private donors and funding agencies, the institute is helping to illuminate the causes of cognitive decline in seniors, identify promising approaches to treatment and lifestyle practices that will protect brain health longer in the lifespan.
ITHACA, N.Y. - A new Cornell University-led study examines how temperature affects fishing behavior and catches among inland fisher households in Cambodia, with important implications for understanding climate change.

The research, which used household surveys, temperature data and statistical models, revealed that when temperatures rise, people fish less often. At the same time, the study's authors indirectly found that stocks of fish and other aquatic foods also rise with temperatures, leading to slightly larger catches each time peopled fished. Without careful analysis, it would appear that overall fish catches appear unchanged annually, when in fact, more nuanced dynamics are at play.

The study highlights why it's necessary when studying changing environmental conditions to include human behavior along with ecosystem responses; both are key variables when considering how climate change affects rural livelihoods, food production and food access.

The paper, "Fishers' Response to Temperature Change Reveals the Importance of Integrating Human Behavior in Climate Change Analysis," published April 30 in the journal Science Advances.

"This study underscores the importance of pulling human behavior into climate change modeling," said Kathryn Fiorella, an assistant professor in the Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences and Master of Public Health Program in the College of Veterinary Medicine. "To accurately predict the impacts of climate change, we need to know about the effects on ecological systems, and also the effects on people who use them."

In the study, Fiorella and colleagues used data provided by partner organization WorldFish, which collected survey data every two months over three years for households in Cambodia, which has the world's highest per-capita consumption of inland fish. WorldFish collected information on how often people fished, how much time they spent when they fished, and what method they used.

The researchers used remotely sensed temperature data over the same three-year period, which revealed a range of 24 to 31 degrees Celsius (75 to 88 degrees Fahrenheit). The researchers also controlled for rainfall and flooding.

"The temperatures in the range of the study compare to regional climate projections in the area, which suggest around a 1.5 to 2.5 degrees Celsius [2.7 to 4.5 F] temperature rise above the average of 28 degrees Celsius [82.4 F]," Fiorella said. "What we observed is in range for what we might expect under climate change scenarios."

The researchers found time spent fishing per outing and the gear choices were not affected by temperature, but fewer people fished as temperatures rose.

They also analyzed fish catch. It turns out that, with effort holding constant, fish catch per outing went up as temperatures rose, which meant the ecosystem became a little more productive when it was warmer. The same pattern was true for other aquatic animals, like frogs or snakes, and aquatic plants. However, without factoring in effects of temperature on human behavior, it might have looked like temperature had no effect.

The researchers suspect that fishing frequency declined as temperatures rose due to competing interests. "These households have a suite of different activities they are engaged in at the same time," Fiorella said, noting many of them are rice farmers or run small businesses. At the same time, heat may also be a factor, she added.

Fiorella added that large swaths of the population migrate to cities or nearby countries for work, and these dynamics could be pulling them away from fishing.

"Ultimately," she said, "understanding both ecosystem responses and people's responses to temperature is going to be fundamental to understanding how climate change affects people who are directly reliant on the natural resources for their food and income."

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Co-authors include Christopher Barrett, the Stephen B. and Janice G. Ashley Professor, and Elizabeth Bageant, a research support specialist, both in Cornell's Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management; Naomi Schwartz, at University of British Columbia; and Shakuntala Thilsted, a nutrition expert with WorldFish.

The study was funded by the Cornell Atkinson Center for Sustainability and the WorldFish's Rice Field Fisheries Enhancement project, which is supported by the U.S. Agency for International Development.
In the early 19th century in North America, parasitic infections were quite common in urban areas due in part to population growth and urbanization. Prior research has found that poor sanitation, unsanitary privy (outhouse) conditions, and increased contact with domestic animals, contributed to the prevalence of parasitic disease in urban areas. A new study examining fecal samples from a privy on Dartmouth's campus illustrates how rural wealthy elites in New England also had intestinal parasitic infections. The findings are published in the Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports.

"Our study is one of the first to demonstrate evidence of parasitic infection in an affluent rural household in the Northeast," says co-author Theresa Gildner, who was formerly the Robert A. 1925 and Catherine L. McKennan postdoctoral fellow in anthropology at Dartmouth and is currently an assistant professor of biological anthropology at Washington University in St. Louis. "Until now, there has not been a lot of evidence that parasitic disease was anywhere else other than urban areas in the early 19th century."

In June 2019, a team of Dartmouth researchers led by Jesse Casana, a professor and chair of the department of anthropology at Dartmouth, excavated a privy in front of Dartmouth's Baker-Berry Library. Earlier, an archaeological survey using ground penetrating radar instruments had identified the location as an area of particular interest. The site was home to where the Choate House once stood. Based on historical records from Rauner Special Collections Library on campus and other sources, the researchers report that the Choate House was constructed in 1786 by Sylvanus Ripley, one of the first four graduates of Dartmouth who would become a professor of divinity and a trustee at Dartmouth. In 1801, Mill Olcott, a Dartmouth graduate who became a wealthy businessman, politician and trustee, purchased the house. For several decades, Olcott and his wife and nine children lived in the house. As the study explains, the Olcotts "would have been among the wealthiest and most educated people in New England" during that time. Nearly one century later, to make space for the library in the 1920s, the Choate House was relocated to another area of Dartmouth's campus.

The Dartmouth dig revealed that the privy and its interior stone walls and contents had been well-preserved. A privy functioned not only as a toilet but also as a garbage, a place to discard food and other unwanted items. In the soil levels of the privy, the researchers found stratified deposits containing numerous artifacts from over the years, including: imported fine ceramics; peanut and coffee remains, which were considered exotic items at the time; and three fecal samples. In addition, 12 Hazard and Caswell bottles marketed to cure digestive ailments were found at the same soil level as the fecal samples, along with eight bottles of Congress & Empire Spring Co. mineral water from Saratoga Springs, N.Y., in a later soil level.

"The state of medical care during this time period was pretty terrible," explains Casana. "A lot of people probably experienced symptoms of parasitic infections but wouldn't know what was causing them. Privies would have been getting a lot of use at this time," he adds. "If people had the means, they would order special medicines to treat an upset stomach, which were really just tinctured alcohol that offered no medicinal benefits."

Gildner, whose research focuses on parasites, was out of town doing other fieldwork during the Dartmouth dig but had asked Casana to let her know if the team finds anything that resembles fecal material. To her surprise, Gildner learned that three fecal samples has been unearthed. "In studying intestinal parasites, I am used to working with fresh material-- not fecal samples that are almost 200 years old and practically dirt," says Gildner, who researched how to work with the centuries-old samples.

After rehydrating the fecal samples, Gildner ran them through a series of mesh sieves, from large to small, to filter out the bigger particulates and trap the small parasite eggs. The material was washed and centrifuged and slides were then prepared from each of the samples. Using a light microscope, the slides revealed that tapeworm eggs (Taenia spp.) and whipworm eggs (Trichuris trichiura) were present in each of the specimens. While the number of eggs was considered low by research standards, the parasite eggs were consistent across the three samples.

The co-authors explain that their findings are especially striking given that parasites typically prefer "warm, tropical regions" rather than the cold, snowy weather that is characteristic of New Hampshire winters, conditions which are typically thought of as inhospitable to parasite eggs.

Tapeworms are parasites that are transmitted between humans and livestock (e.g., pigs and cows). The animals consume vegetation contaminated with parasite eggs, the eggs hatch and the parasites travel to these animals' muscles. The consumption of raw or undercooked meat then leads to infection in humans. Adult tapeworms living in the intestine of the human host then lay eggs, which are passed into the environment with fecal material, starting the cycle again. Like tapeworm, whipworm eggs are passed in feces. These microscopic eggs then infect new human hosts through fecal-oral transmission (e.g., the ingestion of fecal contaminated food or water), generally due to unwashed hands and an inability to properly clean food items.

While the researchers are unable to determine if the fecal samples came from an Olcott family member, it's quite likely that all members of their household were exposed to tapeworm and whipworm. The findings demonstrate that parasite infection did not just affect urban and lower income areas, demographics which have been highlighted in previous research.

Casana says that, "I think that we take a lot of our health and infrastructure that we have today for granted. Our results show that even wealth could not protect you from these parasitic infections 200 years ago."

"Tapeworm and whipworm are still really common today in various parts of the world and can lead to nutritional deficiencies, digestive problems, and poor growth," says Gildner. "Although these infections are preventable and treatable, there's still more to be done to help prevent these infections. Access to clean water, which is essential to good hand hygiene, and sanitation are two things that many people still do not have today."

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Gildner and Casana are available for comment about the study.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. -- Sometime between 50,000 and 70,000 years ago, prehistoric humans took their first steps into Sahul, an ancient landmass made up of modern Australia, New Guinea and Tasmania. But nobody knows which way they went after that.

"One of the really big unanswered questions of prehistory is how Australia was populated in the distant past. Scholars have debated it for at least 150 years," said Sandia National Laboratories archaeologist and remote sensing scientist Devin White.

Now, an international team of scientists using a Sandia supercomputer in the largest reconstruction ever attempted of prehistoric travel has mapped the probable "superhighways" that led to the first peopling of Australia. Their results were published April 29 in Nature Human Behaviour.

Their methods could help organizations like the United Nations and the Federal Emergency Management Agency forecast modern day human migration resulting from climate change or sudden humanitarian crises, while the new maps could inform the search for undiscovered archaeological sites. The research team believes it also might be possible to apply their approach to other areas of the world, further illuminating the human story since the first migrations out of Africa about 120,000 years ago.

Powered by 125 billion simulations run on a supercomputer typically used to develop autonomous systems and machine learning technologies, the team's research is the first high-resolution computational analysis of human migration at a continental scale, dividing the entire supercontinent into pixels 1,640 feet (500 meters) across.

"It is the largest and most complex project of its kind that I'd ever been asked to take on," said White, who wrote the primary algorithm used, called "From Everywhere to Everywhere," and overhauled it to program the way-finders. For more than 15 years, White has used geospatial analysis, remote sensing and high-performance computing to study human transportation networks.

Archaeologist and computational social scientist Stefani Crabtree, a fellow at the Santa Fe Institute in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and professor at Utah State University in Logan led the study.

"We decided it would be really interesting to look at this question of human migration because the ways that we conceptualize a landscape should be relatively steady for a hiker in the 21st century and a person who was way-finding into a new region 70,000 years ago," Crabtree said. "If it's a new landscape and we don't have a map, we're going to want to know how to move efficiently throughout a space, where to find water, and where to camp -- and we'll orient ourselves based on high points around the lands."

Researchers packed a virtual 25-year-old woman with 22 pounds (10 kilograms) of tools and water and sent her on billions of walks across the continent as it would have looked 50,000 years ago. Her task: find the paths that require the fewest calories to traverse without straying too far from reliable sources of water or from highly visible landscape features like large rock outcrops. The team found that the simulations returned to certain paths again and again, which the researchers dubbed "superhighways," that line up well with the earliest known archaeological sites on the continent.

Researchers affiliated with the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Australian Biodiversity and Heritage (CABAH) also contributed to the project and explained the strong connection between Aboriginal communities, the landscape they have traveled across for millennia and a timeless realm known as the Dreaming.

"Australia's not only the driest, but also the flattest populated continent on Earth," said Sean Ulm, the center's deputy director and a distinguished professor of archaeology at Queensland, Australia-based James Cook University. "Our research shows that prominent landscape features and water sources were critical for people to navigate and survive on the continent. In many Aboriginal societies, landscape features are believed to have been created by ancestral beings during the Dreaming. Every ridgeline, hill, river, beach and water source is named, storied and inscribed into the very fabric of societies, emphasising the intimate relationship between people and place. The landscape is literally woven into peoples' lives and their histories. It seems that these relationships between people and country probably date back to the earliest peopling of the continent."

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Sandia National Laboratories is a multimission laboratory operated by National Technology and Engineering Solutions of Sandia LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Honeywell International Inc., for the U.S. Department of Energy's National Nuclear Security Administration. Sandia Labs has major research and development responsibilities in nuclear deterrence, global security, defense, energy technologies and economic competitiveness, with main facilities in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Livermore, California.
Even under the most optimistic scenarios, most of the coral reef ecosystems on our planet - whether in Australia, the Maldives or the Caribbean - will have disappeared or be in very bad shape by the end of this century. That's because global warming is pushing ocean temperatures above the limit that single-cell algae, which are corals' main allies, can withstand. These algae live inside coral tissue for protection and, in exchange, provide corals with essential nutrients produced through photosynthesis. Because the algae contain a variety of pigments and therefore give coral reefs their famous colors, if they are lost the corals turn white, which is known as coral bleaching. But in spite of the real threat caused by global warming, corals in the Red Sea look set to keep their vibrant color.

"We already knew that corals in the Gulf of Aqaba, at the northern tip of the Red Sea, were particularly resistant to higher temperatures. But we wanted to study the full molecular mechanism behind this resistance," says Romain Savary, a postdoc at EPFL's Laboratory for Biological Geochemistry (LGB) and lead author of the study, which appears today in PNAS. What the scientists found was telling: those corals, as well as the algae and bacteria they live in symbiosis with, can withstand average temperatures some 5C higher than what they typically experience. And despite the severity with which climate change is taking place, it's unlikely that Red Sea temperatures will rise more than 5C by the end of the century. "This gives us real hope that we can save at least one major coral reef ecosystem for future generations," says Anders Meibom, head of the LGB.

Taking it in stride

To conduct their study, the scientists subjected Gulf of Aqaba corals to a range of heat stresses including the higher temperatures likely to occur in the coming decades. The average maximum monthly temperature in these waters is currently around 27C, so the scientists exposed coral samples to temperatures of 29.5C, 32C and 34.5C, over both a short time period (three hours) and a longer one (one week). The scientists measured the corals' and symbiotic algae's gene expression both during and after the heat stress test, and determined the composition of the microbiome residing in the corals.

"The main thing we found is that these corals currently live in temperatures well below the maximum they can withstand with their molecular machinery, which means they're naturally shielded against the temperature increases that will probably occur over the next 100 or even 200 years," says Savary. "Our measurements showed that at temperatures of up to 32C, the corals and their symbiotic organisms were able to molecularly recover and acclimate to both short-term and long-term heat stress without any major consequences." This offers genuine hope to scientists - although warmer waters are not the only threat facing this exceptional natural heritage.

This is the first time scientists have conducted a genetic analysis of coral samples on such a broad scale, and their findings reveal how these heat-resistant corals respond at the most fundamental level - gene expression. They can also be used as a basis for identifying 'super corals.' According to Meibom, "Romain's research gives us insight into the specific genetic factors that allow corals to survive. His study also indicates that an entire symphony of genetic expression is at work to give corals this extraordinary power." This sets a standard for what "super coral" gene expression looks like during a heat stress and a recovery. But could Red Sea corals be used to one day repopulate the Great Barrier Reef? "Corals are highly dependent on their surroundings," says Meibom. "They can adapt to new environments only after a long, natural colonization process. What's more, the Great Barrier Reef is the size of Italy - it would be impossible to repopulate it artificially."

Sailing towards the future

The scientists' work was made possible thanks to two unique research instruments: the Red Sea Simulator (RSS), developed by the Interuniversity Institute for Marine Sciences in Eilat, Israel; and the Coral Bleaching Automated Stress System (CBASS), developed by a team of researchers in the US. Their findings have laid the groundwork for a much more ambitious project that will be led by the Transnational Red Sea Center (TRSC, http://www. trsc. org ), which was set up at EPFL in 2019. This new project will kick off this summer and take place over four years. "We'll sail the entire Red Sea - some 2,000 km long - on the research vessel Fleur de Passion, owned by our partner the Fondation Pacifique," says Meibom. "The goal will be to map the heat tolerance levels and the diversity of all the different types of corals found in these waters. Water temperatures rise as you head further south on the Red Sea, with a 5-6C differential between the northern and southern tips. That's what makes it a perfect real-world laboratory for studying these ecosystems. It's as if you're sailing towards the future as you head south."

And what does that glimpse into the future tell us? Some corals in the southern Red Sea are already starting to bleach. Savary believes there's just one solution: "We have to protect these corals and shield them from local stressors, which are mainly sources of pollution and physical destruction. That way we can keep a stock of 'natural super corals' for potentially recolonizing areas that have been hit particularly hard by climate-change-induced heat waves."

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LUGANO, Switzerland, 3 May 2021 - As breast cancer becomes a largely curable disease, with more than 70% of women surviving at least 10 years after diagnosis across most of Europe thanks to early detection and treatment, (1) the quality of life after cancer has become an important aspect of the patient journey - one that may be inadequately addressed with current standards of follow-up. A study presented at the ESMO Breast Cancer 2021 Virtual Congress (2) has shown that breast cancer survivors differ widely in the burden of symptoms they experience after the end of treatment and thereby revealed an unmet need for tailored approaches to follow-up care. (3)

Lead author Kelly de Ligt from the Netherlands Cancer Institute in Amsterdam explained the rationale for the study: "Follow-up programmes are different in each country. In the Netherlands, for instance, breast cancer survivors have an annual visit with their treating physician for a follow-up period of five years, or 10 years if they are young. Previous studies had assessed side-effects experienced after the end of treatment as independent items, but in reality, survivors usually experience multiple symptoms that can add up and weigh heavily on their daily life. We wanted to measure the overall burden on their health-related quality of life and see if any patterns emerged that would better inform us on which individuals require active symptom management."

Women who had been surgically treated with or without adjuvant treatment for breast cancer stages I to III were selected between one and five years after diagnosis from the Netherlands Cancer Registry, which contains comprehensive information about diagnosis and treatment for all cancer patients in the Netherlands. A total of 404 participating survivors were questioned about their experienced burden for fatigue, nausea, pain, shortness of breath, insomnia, appetite, constipation, diarrhoea, as well as emotional and cognitive symptoms.

Analysis of their answers allowed the identification of three main subgroups of breast cancer survivors experiencing low, intermediate and high symptom burdens respectively. "In the low-burden group, to which almost a third of patients belonged, women were less affected compared to the average found among a representative sample of 1,300 women of the general population in the Netherlands, who filled out the same questionnaire," de Ligt elaborated. "I was pleasantly surprised to find that so many survivors were doing as well or even better than the average Dutch woman." A further 55% of study participants were classed in the intermediate-burden subgroup, which had similar results to the general population, though their scores for fatigue, insomnia and cognitive symptoms were slightly worse.

Within the high-burden subgroup, meanwhile, de Ligt was alarmed by the results observed: "This was the smallest group, only 15% of our population, but nonetheless, one in six women in our study had worse scores than the general population for all symptoms - and the differences, ranging between 15 and 20 percentage points, were large enough to be considered not just statistically significant, but clinically relevant as well," she explained. According to de Ligt, these findings confirm the necessity for personalised approaches to the follow-up of cancer patients, some of whom still require special attention as late as five years after diagnosis.

The study results further showed that patients with comorbidities such as heart disease and diabetes were more likely to experience a high symptom burden. "This association was so strong in our analysis that we were not able to link the level of symptom burden patients reported with the type of therapy they had received. However, because we measured symptom burden and comorbidities at the same time in the study, we cannot draw conclusions from these findings alone," de Ligt added. "Future research should attempt to measure patients' health-related quality of life through Patient Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs) before the start of treatment for breast cancer and afterwards to allow us to measure the effect of the therapy."

Nadia Harbeck, LMU University Hospital of Munich, Germany, a breast cancer expert not involved in the study, commented: "As a clinician, I was surprised that the analysis revealed no associations between the treatments patients had received and the burden-related subgroup they belonged to, because I would think that any therapy we administer - for example having just surgery plus radiotherapy versus undergoing an extensive course of systemic treatment both before and after the surgery - does have an impact on the symptom burden patients experience over the five-year follow-up period. Gathering data from a larger group of women could help us to gain more insight, and it would be interesting to see this study reproduced in other countries to ascertain whether there are also cultural and social factors impacting patients' answers."

She added: "In my experience, some patients could do without the quarterly visits to their outpatient practitioner, which are part of the standard follow-up protocol in Germany, while others do need that regular interaction with a physician. It is not always easy to distinguish between them initially, because when I see my patients right after treatment, they are so busy returning to their normal lives that a lot of the physical and emotional burden they feel is not there yet or is suppressed. In addition, some patients are not naturally communicative about their personal experience with the disease. This new data shows that if we specifically assessed women's needs in this respect at different stages in their follow-up journey, we could adapt the care we offer not just to their risk of recurrence, but also to their physical and mental state over time. The gynaecologists, family doctors and nurses who help us in follow-up care should be made aware of these findings."

The important role of outpatient healthcare providers in breast cancer patients' post-treatment journey is confirmed by another study which has revealed that among 621 breast cancer patients treated at Oulu University Hospital in Finland, between 2003 and 2013, only a minority (25%) of cancer relapses were detected during pre-planned control visits. (4) More than half of the 95 cases of recurrence were identified as a result of patients contacting their physician about a new symptom they were experiencing, most commonly pain.

"It is essential to reinforce the message to patients that if they feel anything unusual, they should mention it without delay to a medical professional, along with the information that they are a breast cancer survivor, to ensure that any connection with the cancer is not missed - especially when a lot of time has passed since the initial diagnosis," Harbeck emphasised. "As anticancer therapies have become more effective, the pattern of metastasis has changed over the years and can affect any organ, so there is not just one main symptom or area of the body to be attentive to. Patients therefore need to be well-informed and must be made to feel comfortable about contacting their physician outside of their planned consultations if necessary."

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Notes to Editors

Please make sure to use the official name of the meeting in your reports: ESMO Breast Cancer Virtual Congress 2021

Official Congress Hashtag: #ESMOBreast21

Disclaimer

This press release contains information provided by the author of the highlighted abstract and reflects the content of this abstract. It does not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the ESMO who cannot be held responsible for the accuracy of the data. Commentators quoted in the press release are required to comply with the ESMO Declaration of Interests policy and the ESMO Code of Conduct.

References

1) F. Cardoso, S. Kyriakides, S. Ohno, F. Penault-Llorca, P. Poortmans, I. T. Rubio, S. Zackrisson and E. Senkus. Early Breast Cancer: ESMO Clinical Practice Guidelines. https:/ / doi. org/ 10. 1093/ annonc/ mdz173

2) https:/ / www. esmo. org/ meetings/ esmo-breast-2021-virtual

3) Abstract 134P 'Towards tailored follow-up care for breast cancer survivors: cluster analyses based on symptom burden' will be presented available as e-Poster from Wednesday 5 May at 09:00 CEST.

4) Abstract 140P 'How breast cancer recurrences are found? - a real-world, prospective cohort study' will be presented available as e-Poster from Wednesday 5 May at 09:00 CEST.

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. http://www. esmo. org

134P_PR - Towards tailored follow-up care for breast cancer survivors: cluster analyses based on symptom burden

K.M. de Ligt1, B.H. de Rooij2, I. Walraven3, M.J. Heins4, S. Siesling2, J.C. Korevaar4, L.V. van de Poll-Franse1 1Psychosocial Oncology and Epidemiolgy, NKI-AVL - Netherlands Cancer Institute/Antoni van Leeuwenhoek Hospital, Amsterdam, Netherlands, 2Department of Research and Development, Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organization, Utrecht, Netherlands, 3Department for Health Evidence, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, Netherlands, 4Department of Primary Care, Netherlands Institute of Health Services Research, Utrecht, Netherlands

Background: Breast cancer survivors may experience multiple co-existing symptoms that affect their health-related quality of life. Insight into symptom clustering can contribute to better targeted follow-up. We aimed to identify subgroups of breast cancer survivors based on clusters of symptom burden, and patient and treatment characteristics associated with these subgroups.

Methods: We selected surgically treated stage I-III breast cancer survivors 1-5 years post-diagnosis from the Netherlands Cancer Registry (N=876). We assessed experienced burden for fatigue, nausea, pain, dyspnea, insomnia, appetite, constipation, diarrhea, financial burden, and emotional and cognitive symptoms through the EORTC-QLQ-C30 on a scale 0-100. We determined subgroups of survivors using?Latent class Cluster Analyses (LCA) based on patterns of co-existing symptom burden. We compared patient and treatment characteristics of the subgroups by multinomial logistic regression and compared their symptom burden to the age and sex matched general?reference population.

Results: From 404 participating survivors (46%), 3 subgroups of survivors were identified: low symptom burden (n=116/404, 28.7%) intermediate symptom burden (n=224/404, 55.4%), and high symptom burden (n=59/404, 14.6%). The low subgroup reported a lower symptom burden compared to the general population. The intermediate subgroup experienced burden similar to the general population, although scores for fatigue, insomnia, and cognitive symptoms were slightly worse (small-medium clinically relevant differences). The high subgroup had worse symptom burden than the general population (medium-large clinically relevant differences). Compared to the intermediate subgroup, one (relative risk ratio (RRR): 2.75; CI: 1.22-6.19; p=0.015) or more (RRR: 9.19; CI: 3.70-22.8; p=<0.001) comorbidities were significantly associated with membership to the high subgroup. We found no associations between patient or treatment characteristics and subgroups.

Conclusions: We identified different subgroups of breast cancer survivors based on symptom burden. This may indicate the relevance of personalized follow-up care and should be explored in future research.

Legal entity responsible for the study:N/A

Funding: Has not received any funding

Disclosure: All authors have declared no conflicts of interest.
Boulder, Colo., USA: A new focus article in the May issue of Geology summarizes research on plastic waste in marine and sedimentary environments. Authors I.A. Kane of the Univ. of Manchester and A. Fildani of the Deep Time Institute write that "Environmental pollution caused by uncontrolled human activity is occurring on a vast and unprecedented scale around the globe. Of the diverse forms of anthropogenic pollution, the release of plastic into nature, and particularly the oceans, is one of the most recent and visible effects."

The authors cite multiple studies, including one in the May issue by Guangfa Zhong and Xiaotong Peng, discussed in a previous GSA press release when it was published online ahead of print (26 Jan. 2021). Zhong and Peng were surprised to find plastic waste in a deep-sea submarine canyon located in the northwestern South China Sea.

"Plastic is generally considered to be the dominant component of marine litter, due to its durability and the large volume produced," write Kane and Fildani. "Nano- and microplastics are a particularly insidious form of anthropogenic pollutant: tiny fragments and fibers may be invisible to the naked eye, but they are ingested with the food and water we consume and absorbed into the flesh of organisms."

One of their vital questions is, "If some plastics can survive for >1000 years in terrestrial environments, how long do they last in ocean trenches that are kilometers deep, dark, cold, and at high pressure? How long does it take microplastic to break down into microplastics and nanoplastics in the deep sea?"

"While it is incumbent on policy makers to take action now to protect the oceans from further harm, we recognize the roles that geoscientists can play," write Kane and Fildani. That includes using their deep-time perspective to address the societal challenges, their understanding of the present-day distribution on the seafloor and in the sedimentary record, using geoscience techniques to record the downstream effects of mitigation efforts, and to predict the future of seafloor plastics.

In summary, they write, "We understand ... the transient nature of the stratigraphic record and its surprising preservation, and the unique geochemical environments found in deep-sea sediments. Our source-to-sink approach to elucidate land-to-sea linkages can identify the sources and pathways that plastics take while traversing natural habitats and identify the context in which they are ultimately sequestered, and the ecosystems they affect. This will happen by working closely with oceanographers, biologists, chemists, and others tackling the global pollution problem."

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FEATURED ARTICLE

Anthropogenic pollution in deep-marine sedimentary systems--A geological perspective on the plastic problem

I.A. Kane; A. Fildani: Geology, v. 49, p. 607-608, https:/ / doi. org/ 10. 1130/ focus052021. 1 .

You can access the current issue of GEOLOGY at https:/ / pubs. geoscienceworld. org/ geology/ issue . Representatives of the media may obtain complimentary articles by contacting Kea Giles at the e-mail address above. Please discuss articles of interest with the authors before publishing stories on their work, and please make reference to GEOLOGY in articles published. Non-media requests for articles may be directed to GSA Sales and Service, gsaservice@geosociety.org.
A new, federally funded, international research center at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universitaet (LMU) in Munich will study globalization from an unusual angle. It will consider the complexities of worldwide networks of mutual dependency in terms of the dynamics of "dis:connectivity".

On the surface, globalization promises more of everything - more speed, more efficiency, more internationalism - an inexorably increasing degree of networking and concentration. "But this is an overly simplistic view," says Roland Wenzlhuemer, Professor of Modern and Contemporary history at LMU. "Globalization also encompasses opposing forces and restraining factors, diversions, discontinuities, and loss or lack of connectivity." Moreover, any serious attempt to understand the complexity of globalization must take the dynamics of interconnection and its erosion into account, he adds. - And if proof of this thesis were needed, the current coronavirus crisis provides it. The rapid diffusion of the pandemic has been made possible by the worldwide networks of exchange and interdependence, and it can only be effectively countered by breaking off as many of these links as possible.

To refer to this characteristic feature of globalization processes, Wenzlhuemer and his LMU colleagues Burcu Dogramaci (Professor of Art History), and Christopher Balme (Professor of Theater Studies) have coined the term 'dis:connectivity', which also describes the central theme of the new Kate Hamburger International Research Center at LMU. The Federal Ministry of Education and Research has agreed to fund the project for 4 years in the first instance at a cost of 7.9 million euros. According to the Federal Government, the Kate Hamburger Program is intended to "contribute to the further development of networks and research structures in the Humanities, with a view to enhancing the international profiles of scholars working in these fields in Germany.

Wenzlhuemer regards the concept of 'dis:connectivity' as "an entirely new approach to the study of globalization as a phenomenon". Processes that are based on interconnections inevitably entail the loss of existing links and/or a lack of necessary connecting elements. "When people migrate, they soon come up against borders, encounter obstacles and are exposed to discrimination," Wenzlhuemer points out, "or to take another example, while markets for particular goods and services are readily integrated with one another, others remain regional or are protected by tariff barriers." Over the next few years, the new Research Center hopes to establish and explore a more complex and practice-based understanding of globalization.

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The researchers who work in the new Kate Hamburger Center hope to develop "an innovative model that combines scholarly approaches with aesthetic points of view to capture the phenomenon of globalization in all its complexity and fluidity". This explains why historians of the arts will form a central element in the Center's research concept, and Wenzlhuemer (a historian), Dogramaci (an art historian) and Balme (a theater historian) will serve as its Directors.

Research at the Center will be structured around its Fellowship Program, which will enable approximately 10 researchers and artists to work in Munich each year. The Center will also maintain close contacts with other cultural institutions, such as theaters and museums in the city, and plans to set up a 'Transfer Lab', which will also stimulate dialog with the public.
New research has shown that COVID-19 infections in healthcare workers during the first wave of the pandemic provided an accurate sample of the general population, suggesting that data from healthcare workers could be used to estimate the severity of future viruses more quickly.

The study, led by researchers from RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences in collaboration with IBM Research, is published in PLOS ONE.

The researchers analysed the infection data from healthcare workers and the progression of the first wave of the COVID-19 outbreak using the reported daily infection numbers in Ireland. Using similar data in four other countries (Germany, UK, South Korea and Iceland), computer models showed how the disease progressed in different countries related to their approach to testing, tracing and lockdown restrictions.

Healthcare workers in Ireland made up 31.6% of all test-confirmed infections while only representing 3% of the population. However, the researchers found that the healthcare worker data closely related to that of the entire population after using software to create a more accurate picture of how widespread the disease was.

This suggests that governments could use data from only healthcare workers to inform decisions on whether to implement restrictions, wide-scale testing and contact tracing for future viruses.

"As we have seen with the COVID-19 pandemic, implementing countermeasures early can save lives and reduce the spread of the disease," said RCSI Professor of Chemistry Donal O'Shea, who led the work.

"However, wide-scale testing can take time to set up, delaying decisions and costing lives. While the healthcare population is no longer an accurate sample of the general population for COVID-19 due to different vaccination rates, governments could use data from their healthcare worker population to make informed decisions on what measures to implement earlier when future viruses emerge."

The research noted that very few nations were able to set up effective systems that tested the entire population, carried out contact tracing and quarantined those infected with COVID-19.

"Setting up wide-scale testing systems for healthcare workers is much easier than setting up a similar programme for everyone since the infrastructure for testing for diseases is always in place in healthcare settings," said Dr Dan Wu, honorary lecturer in the RCSI Department of Chemistry and first author on the paper.

"A screening programme that tested all healthcare workers would have the additional benefit of catching asymptomatic spread of the disease since all healthcare workers would be tested. If governments could catch highly infectious diseases and implement countermeasures early, this could possibly prevent new viruses from erupting into another epidemic/pandemic."

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About RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences

RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences is a world-leading university for Good Health and Well-being. Ranked second in the world for its contribution to UN Sustainable Development Goal 3 in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2021, it is exclusively focused on education and research to drive improvements in human health worldwide.

RCSI is an international not-for-profit university, headquartered in Dublin. It is among the top 250 universities worldwide in the World University Rankings (2020) and its research is ranked first in Ireland for citations. RCSI has been awarded Athena Swan Bronze accreditation for positive gender practice in higher education.

Visit the RCSI MyHealth Expert Directory to find the details of our experts across a range of healthcare issues and concerns. Recognising their responsibility to share their knowledge and discoveries to empower people with information that leads them to better health, these clinicians and researchers are willing to engage with the media in their area of expertise.
The research team led by Fuyuki Ishikawa at the National Institute of Informatics (NII, Japan) developed a technique to search automatically for simulation configurations that test various behaviors of automated driving systems. This research was conducted under the ERATO-MMSD project (*1) funded by the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST, Japan). The proposed technique iterates trials on simulations using an optimization method called evolutionary computation so that it discovers simulation configurations that lead to specific features of driving behaviors such as high acceleration, deceleration, and steering operation. The outcome of this research was presented in ICST 2021 (*2), a flagship conference on software testing held during April 12-16 2021.

Background

More attention is being focused on automated driving systems (ADS) or advanced driver assistant systems. New car models with Level 3 of autonomous driving are emerging, ones that do not require human drivers to supervise the driving operation under certain conditions. However, the ADS functionality being put into practical use is limited to specific situations such as traffic jams on highways or fixed routes. Increases in safety and reliability are required for use of ADS in environments with enormous situations such as urban areas.

One of the key functions in ADS is path planning, which continuously updates the direction and speed by examining the surrounding environment including other cars and pedestrians. The path-planning functionality needs to handle not only safety but also multiple other aspects such as the extent of acceleration/deceleration, steering operation, and lane conformance.

Simulation-based testing is commonly used for ADS. A typical approach is that human testers enumerate scenarios. An example is "the ego-car is going to take a right turn, but a car is approaching from the opposite direction." However, the ADS behavior can differ in the same right turn scenario, for example, either taking a turn without the need for braking or decelerating and waiting for a long time before taking the turn. It is essential to check different behaviors the ADS can take before utilizing it in society. However, specific behaviors such as long deceleration are unlikely to occur when we just run many simulations under configurations with different positions of other cars and so on. Moreover, the ADS has more possible specific behaviors, for example, simultaneous occurrences of strong acceleration and high amounts of steering operation. Configuring simulations to cause such specific behaviors intentionally is very difficult.

Research Method and Outcome

In this research, we proposed a technique for test generation that automatically searches for simulation configurations leading to specific features of driving behaviors such as high acceleration and deceleration and high amounts of steering operation. We use an optimization technique called evolutionary computation, which repeats simulation trials to adjust configurations so that specified driving behaviors last for a long period of time. In this way, the technique can discover simulation configurations, such as the positions of other cars, leading to the desired features of driving behaviors.

The proposed technique also avoids only generating simulation configurations that only lead to dangerous situations such as collisions. Therefore, it reveals features of driving behaviors not limited to emergency situations. In addition, it can search for and trigger combinations of behaviors such as simultaneous occurrences of high acceleration and high amounts of steering operation.

We applied and evaluated the test generation technique to a program of path planning offered by Mazda (*3). The technique could generate specific behaviors that were rarely caused in random simulations. For example, it generated strong acceleration together with high amounts of steering operation as well as high acceleration following high deceleration in a scenario for a right turn at an intersection. These cases occurred only with very specific timings of other cars entering the intersection. In this way, we showed the technique can intentionally trigger combinations of specific behaviors using simulation configurations that are very difficult for human engineers to design.

Future outlook

This research was conducted in the JST ERATO-MMSD project. In the project, we investigated other techniques for discovering simulation scenarios that lead to crashes (*4), techniques that explain the causes of crashes (*5), and techniques that fix the behaviors to avoid the detected crashes (*6). The research this time was to increase confidence in the system safety by checking "various situations," in addition to the techniques for detecting and fixing problematic behaviors. Thus, we established a comprehensive approach for testing of ADS with both tests for detecting problems and tests for checking diverse cases, which have been done for conventional software programs.

Late 2020 featured a competition for test generation tools on advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) (in conjunction with the SBST Workshop (*7) to be held in May 2021). The ERATO-MMSD project submitted a tool called Frenetic (*8) to the competition. Frenetic made significant results in terms of the rates of generated failure cases and their diversity. This exactly came from the aforementioned research experience.

We provided comprehensive testing techniques for ADS. Although we used the program provided by Mazda in our evaluations, the techniques are generic and can be tailored for the specific demands of each automotive company. For example, we can adjust the techniques to the emerging framework called responsibility-sensitive safety proposed by Intel and Mobileye. We will endeavor to make our techniques available by tailoring them for emerging international standards as well as the demands from each automotive company.

Comment by Fuyuki Ishikawa

"We have conducted active research on the path-planning component through collaboration with Mazda. We have established a holistic set of testing and debugging techniques, including the aforementioned one, by adapting techniques for conventional program code. The key of these techniques is to search for solutions such as "desirable tests" and "desirable fix actions." We will extend and empirically validate the techniques given emerging standards as well as different demands in each ADS application."

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About the National Institute of Informatics (NII)

NII is Japan's only academic research institute dedicated to the new discipline of informatics. Its mission is to "create future value" in informatics. NII conducts both long-term basic research and practical research aimed at solving social problems in a wide range of informatics research fields, from fundamental theories to the latest topics, such as artificial intelligence, big data, the Internet of Things, and information security.

As an inter-university research institute, NII builds and operates academic information infrastructure essential for the research and educational activities of the entire academic community (including the Science Information Network) as well as developing services such as those that enable the provision of academic content and service platforms.

(*1) ERATO Hasuo Metamathematics for Systems Design Project (ERATO-MMSD): a project funded in the Exploratory Research for Advanced Technology (ERATO) scheme of the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST). The project conducts academic research for quality assurance of cyber-physical systems as the core of Society 5.0. The project specifically focuses on automated driving systems and investigates reliability techniques for modeling, formal verification, testing, and holistic, practical V&V techniques including all of them. This challenge requires tight collaboration of different academic areas such as software science and engineering, control theory and engineering, and artificial intelligence. Therefore, the project also focuses on (meta)mathematical theories. https:/ / www. jst. go. jp/ erato/ hasuo/ en/

(*2) ICST 2021: IEEE International Conference on Software Testing, Verification and Validation 2021. Given an "A" in the CORE ranking for international conferences in the computer science area.

(*3) The model we examined is a prototype for research evaluations, and its quality does not have any relationship with the quality of the actual products.

(*4) Alessandro Calo, Paolo Arcaini, Shaukat Ali, Florian Hauer, Fuyuki Ishikawa, Generating Avoidable Collision Scenarios for Testing Autonomous Driving Systems, The 13th IEEE International Conference on Software Testing, Verification and Validation (ICST 2020 Industry Track), pp. 375-386, March 2020

(*5) Xiao-Yi Zhang, Paolo Arcaini, Fuyuki Ishikawa, Kun Liu, Investigating the Configurations of an Industrial Path Planner in Terms of Collision Avoidance, The 31st International Symposium on Software Reliability Engineering (ISSRE 2020, Research Track -- Practical Experience Reports), pp. 301-312, October 2020

(*6) Alessandro Calo, Paolo Arcaini, Shaukat Ali, Florian Hauer, Fuyuki Ishikawa, Simultaneously Searching and Solving Multiple Avoidable Collisions for Testing Autonomous Driving Systems, The Genetic and Evolutionary Computation Conference (GECCO 2020), pp. 1055-1063, July 2020

(*7) The 14th International Workshop on Search-Based Software Testing: https:/ / sbst21. github. io/

(*8) Frenetic: a tool to generate diverse road structures as test scenarios for lane keeping functionality
HOUSTON - (May 3, 2021) - Ever look at a flatfish like a flounder or sole, with two eyes on one side of its head, and think, "How did that happen?"

You're in luck. Rice University biologist Kory Evans has the answer.

"Flatfishes are some of the weirdest vertebrates on the planet, and they got weird very, very fast by changing multiple traits at once over a short period of time," said Evans, an assistant professor of biosciences at Rice who specializes in studying the evolution of fish over long time scales.

Of all mammals, reptiles, birds, amphibians and fish, flatfish are easily the most asymmetric. Evans, the corresponding author of a study on flatfish evolution in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, said it helps to keep that in perspective.

"Imagine any other animal," he said. "Like, say you're out walking and you see a squirrel, and one eye is here and the other is there," he said, pointing to two places on the same side of his face. "That squirrel is having a bad time. And there are 800 species of these fish that just do that.

"Perspective helps for understanding how weird these animals actually are."

In evolutionary terms, flatfish asymmetry isn't just a novelty, it's an innovation, and a trait that sets flatfish far apart from even their closest relatives.

Evans said flatfish evolution is particularly interesting because they began as typical, symmetrical fish. They started evolving their current shape, or morphology, about 65 million years ago, and within 3 million years, they'd largely finished.

"We got all that novel colonization of morphospace in 3 million years' time," Evans said. "And look how much time has passed since then. So there's a really brief and short period of time when they evolved all these new forms and all these crazy species."

In their study, Evans and co-authors Olivier Larouche of Rice and Sara-Jane Watson of the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology found that tight integration of genetic traits in flatfish led to a sort of evolutionary cascade.

"Integration is where there's a high degree of correlation between traits, such that if you change one trait, another trait will be changed as well," Evans said. "At macroevolutionary timescales, this gets really interesting, because traits then begin to co-evolve with one another. So if you change one trait, you might end up changing several others."

He said traits can become more integrated if their morphological development is controlled or influenced by shared gene interaction networks.

"If the signaling networks expand to encompass more and more traits, then you can theoretically smear changes all across an entire organism using the same signaling network, and you can change really fast," he said. "It's like pressing one button and flipping the whole animal all at once."

Evans, Larouche and Watson used several methods to piece together the story of flatfish evolution. One was a phylogenetic comparative method that tracks the evolutionary history of traits between and among species. Phylogenetic trees have branches that show where species diverge. "Typically, the tree is built using genetics," Evans said. "So, maybe we'll have a bunch of genomes for all those species. And we can use that to figure out who's more closely related to who. Then, once the tree is built, I can see how traits have changed over time using the branching pattern of the tree as a guide."

The researchers also used a micro-CT scanner in the Evans lab to make 3D scans of the skulls of several flatfish species. The scans were used to make 3D morphometric models that could be compared for differences in shape. But many flatfish species are so dissimilar that it wasn't possible to "tease them apart with just shape or just phylogeny alone," Evans said.

So the researchers created complex mathematical models to track the degree of integration between different regions of the skull across the 65-million-year history of flatfishes and their relatives.

"We found that flatfishes were way more integrated than non-flat fishes, and what this means is that the evolution of asymmetry for flatfishes ended up being an integrated process, basically, involving changes all across the skull," he said. "As the eye migrated, a bunch of other things changed as well. And it became additive. So as the flatfish skull got more and more integrated, more things began to change, per unit time, than a generation before."

As to why flatfish evolved to be asymmetrical, Evans said it wasn't the only path to becoming flat.

"Other fishes that are flat did not do this, like stingrays," he said. "They just went flat like a pancake. But their eyes aren't both on the same side. The remora (aka suckerfish) are also a flat-looking fish, and they didn't do that."

Given evolution is a competition for "survival of the fittest," the evolutionary success of flatfish begs the question: Is asymmetry somehow advantageous?

"I'm not gonna lie," Evans said. "I don't really know if there's an advantage. I think they did it because they could."

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Additional co-authors include Stacy Farina of Howard University, Maria Laura Habegger of the University of North Florida and Matt Friedman of the University of Michigan.

Research support was provided by the National Science Foundation.

Links and resources:

The DOI of the PNAS paper is: 10.1073/pnas.2101330118

A copy of the paper is available at: https:/ / doi. org/ 10. 1073/ pnas. 2101330118

High-resolution IMAGES are available for download at:

https:/ / news-network. rice. edu/ news/ files/ 2021/ 04/ 0503_FLATFISH-ke81-lg. jpg

CAPTION: Rice University bioscientist Kory Evans with a 3D printed skull of a jack, a close symmetrical relative of flatfish. Evans and colleagues found flatfish rapidly evolved their asymmetric shape thanks to highly integrated networks of genes that controlled the shapes of their skulls. (Photo by Jeff Fitlow/Rice University)

https:/ / www. flickr. com/ photos/ 51647007@N08/ 5188111786

CAPTION: Sash flounder flatfish. (Photo courtesy of SEFSC Pascagoula Laboratory; Collection of Brandi Noble, NOAA/NMFS/SEFSC)

https:/ / news-network. rice. edu/ news/ files/ 2021/ 04/ 0503_FLATFISH-ke52-lg. jpg

CAPTION: Kory Evans preparing to examine a fish with a microscope in his Rice University laboratory. (Photo by Jeff Fitlow/Rice University)

https:/ / news-network. rice. edu/ news/ files/ 2021/ 04/ 0503_FLATFISH-kegp86-lg. jpg

CAPTION: Rice University bioscientists (from left) Kory Evans, Sean Trainor and Jojo West in Evans' laboratory at Rice. (Photo by Jeff Fitlow/Rice University)

This release can be found online at news.rice.edu.

Follow Rice News and Media Relations via Twitter @RiceUNews.

Located on a 300-acre forested campus in Houston, Rice University is consistently ranked among the nation's top 20 universities by U.S. News & World Report. Rice has highly respected schools of Architecture, Business, Continuing Studies, Engineering, Humanities, Music, Natural Sciences and Social Sciences and is home to the Baker Institute for Public Policy. With 3,978 undergraduates and 3,192 graduate students, Rice's undergraduate student-to-faculty ratio is just under 6-to-1. Its residential college system builds close-knit communities and lifelong friendships, just one reason why Rice is ranked No. 1 for lots of race/class interaction and No. 1 for quality of life by the Princeton Review. Rice is also rated as a best value among private universities by Kiplinger's Personal Finance.
Only 20% of primary liver cancer or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are diagnosed at an early stage, which makes early detection an urgent, unmet healthcare need.

Study aims to develop more accurate diagnostics for early HCC, an AI algorithm to predict an individual's risk of developing HCC, and discover novel molecular targets to prevent the development of HCC.

Study aims to recruit 2,000 participants at high risk of developing HCC from six healthcare institutions and eight polyclinics across Singapore.

Singapore, 3 May 2021 - A first of its kind cohort study on patients at high risk of developing primary liver cancer also known as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), has been launched to diagnose HCC more accurately at an earlier stage and to predict an individual's likelihood of developing the cancer. HCC is the sixth most common cancer in the world but the third most common cause of cancer deaths globally1. In Singapore, HCC is the third and fourth most common cause of cancer deaths, amongst males and females respectively2. While potentially curative treatment is possible with early diagnosis, only 20% of HCC cases are detected at a stage where cure is possible. This investigator-initiated multi-centre study led by the National Cancer Centre of Singapore (NCCS) called EarLy DEtection of HCC: miRNA, microbiome and imaGing biomArkers in the evolution of chroNiC livEr Disease in a high-risk prospective cohort (ELEGANCE), addresses this urgent, unmet need for individuals at high risk of developing HCC.

1. Bray, F., Ferlay, J., Soerjomataram, I., Siegel, R. L., Torre, L. A., & Jemal, A. (2018). Global cancer statistics 2018: GLOBOCAN estimates of incidence and mortality worldwide for 36 cancers in 185 countries. CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians, 68(6), 394-424. https:/ / doi. org/ 10. 3322/ caac. 21492

2. National Registry of Diseases Office. (2021, March). Singapore Cancer Registry Annual Report 2018. https:/ / www. nrdo. gov. sg/ docs/ librariesprovider3/ default-document-library/ scr-annual-report-2018. pdf?sfvrsn= bcf56c25_0

While individuals at high risk of developing HCC are well defined clinically as those with pre-existing liver cirrhosis, chronic viral hepatitis and/or fatty liver, there are currently no validated diagnostic, predictive and prognostic biomarkers for HCC, making early diagnosis challenging. Identifying such biomarkers would greatly improve patient outcomes. Currently, emerging data suggest that the evolution of chronic liver disease into HCC may be reflected by changes in the stool (microbiome), blood and urine (metabolome). An AI algorithm that leverages MRI imaging parameters may also be able to predict an individual's risk of developing HCC by offering personalised prediction.

The ELEGANCE study will enrol patients at high-risk of developing HCC to deliver robust scientific data with the aim of developing more precise clinical tools to diagnose HCC at an early stage and predict which individuals are at highest risk. In addition, the study will highlight how the microbiome and metabolome changes with disease development and identify potential therapeutic targets that may slow disease progression and reduce the risks of developing cancer.

"Having cared for patients with liver cancer for more than 20 years, I see a pressing need to better predict this disease, diagnose it early and improve treatment outcomes," said Prof Pierce Chow, Principal Investigator of the study and Senior Consultant, Division of Surgery and Surgical Oncology, Singapore General Hospital (SGH) and NCCS. "The ELEGANCE study is the first in the world to prospectively investigate the role of microRNA (miRNA), microbiome, metabolome and imaging biomarkers in the evolution of chronic liver disease and the early diagnosis of liver cancer."

"This landmark study is designed to provide in-depth and multi-faceted data on the prognosis of HCC which can offer important insights to developing potential new diagnostic and predictive tools for this cancer," said Assistant Professor Mihir Gandhi, Health Services & Systems Research Signature Programme and Head of Biostatistics Core team at the Centre for Quantitative Medicine, Duke-NUS Medical School (Duke-NUS), Singapore, whose team shaped the study design. "Data and analysis from this study will provide a robust scientific basis for the development of prognostic models that can identify those at risk of developing HCC and other unfavourable outcomes."

"Metabolites can be used as early indicators of health problems on the horizon. We will perform metabolic phenotyping of the cohort at high risk of developing HCC, and we should be able to identify early biomarkers that can predict the onset of HCC. The outcome could provide clues for regulating gut microbes by precision nutritional intervention to slow down or prevent the development of HCC," said Prof Wang Yulan, Director of the Singapore Phenome Centre (SPC) at Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University Singapore.

Conducting the ELEGANCE study in Singapore

With 80% of HCC cases worldwide diagnosed in the Asia Pacific region, Singapore is a fitting site to conduct the study.3 The four-year long study launched late last month will enroll 2,000 participants at risk for HCC. These include patients with liver cirrhosis, hepatitis B or C, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) or non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).

The study involves public and private sector collaboration and has three tracks: 1) to evaluate the efficacy of a miRNA diagnostic kit for HCC with Singapore-headquartered multi-cancer early detection company MiRXES; 2) to develop an AI algorithm for identification of patients at-risk of developing HCC using state-of-the-art quantitative MR imaging, with digital medical technology company, Perspectum, whose Asia Pacific headquarters are in Singapore; and 3) to determine the changes in the microbiome and metabolome that lead to HCC with Southeast Asian precision gut microbiome company AMiLi.

The goal of all three tracks is early diagnosis, better and more cost effective methods for improved patient outcomes and the identification of novel therapeutic targets.

3. National Registry of Diseases Office. (2019, November). Singapore Cancer Registry 50th Anniversary Monograph - Appendices. https:/ / www. nrdo. gov. sg/ docs/ librariesprovider3/ default-document-library/ thespore-cancerregistry_commerativebook_-2. pdf?sfvrsn= 711bf71a_0

Whole-of nation effort

Healthcare institutions including National Cancer Centre Singapore (NCCS), Singapore General Hospital (SGH), National University Hospital (NUH), Changi General Hospital (CGH), Sengkang General Hospital (SKH), Tan Tock Seng Hospital (TTSH) and eight SingHealth Polyclinics (Bedok, Bukit Merah, Marine Parade, Outram, Pasir Ris, Punggol, Sengkang and Tampines) will serve as recruitment sites. Clinician-scientists and scientists from the recruiting hospitals and polyclinics, as well as academic institutions, Duke-NUS and Singapore Phenome Centre are collaborators for this study.

"There is indeed a pressing need for a collaborative multi-center study to identify patients at the highest risk of HCC in Singapore. In the era of precision medicine, we aim to develop state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to effectively diagnose HCC at an early stage. Our common goal is to reduce mortality from HCC," said Associate Professor Jason Chang Pik Eu, Head and Senior Consultant, Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, SGH.

Associate Professor Dan Yock Young, Senior Consultant, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, NUH said, "Liver cancer is one of the deadliest cancers in Asia. Developing new tools of screening and identification of the at risk population will allow us to detect cancer at its earlier stage, where it is potentially curative."

Patient recruitment for the ELEGANCE study

The research team is actively recruiting patients with chronic liver disease as validated by blood tests and imaging. Enrolled patients will be monitored regularly by current standard-of-care imaging and blood tests. Collection of additional clinical data, bio samples and regular follow-ups will continue at participating hospitals/clinics for up to three years after enrolment. As this is an observational research study, there will be no interventional treatment but patients diagnosed with liver cancer during the study will be treated by the respective healthcare institutions according to standard clinical practice.

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For more information on the study and eligibility, please contact the study's coordinators:

Tel: +65 6326 6573

Email: ahcc10@nccs.com.sg

Accompanying image

Caption: Quantitative MR images of the liver from six patients presenting with liver cancer produced by Perspectum's LiverMultiScan which will be used in a new study led by National Cancer Centre Singapore.

Image credit: Mole DJ et al. Plos One. 2020;15(12):e0238568

About the National Cancer Centre of Singapore

The National Cancer Centre of Singapore (NCCS) provides a holistic and multi-disciplinary approach to cancer treatment and patient care. We see close to 65 per cent of the public sector oncology cases, and they are benefiting from the sub-specialisation of our clinical oncologists.

To deliver among the best in cancer treatment and care, our clinicians work closely with our scientists who conduct robust, cutting-edge clinical and translational research programmes which are internationally recognised. NCCS strives to be a global leading cancer centre, and shares its expertise and knowledge by offering training to local and overseas medical professionals.

For more information, please visit: http://www. nccs. com. sg

About Duke-NUS Medical School

Duke-NUS is Singapore's flagship graduate entry medical school, established in 2005 with a strategic, government-led partnership between two world-class institutions: Duke University School of Medicine and the National University of Singapore (NUS). Through an innovative curriculum, students at Duke-NUS are nurtured to become multi-faceted 'Clinicians Plus' poised to steer the healthcare and biomedical ecosystem in Singapore and beyond. A leader in ground-breaking research and translational innovation, Duke-NUS has gained international renown through its five signature research programmes and nine centres. The enduring impact of its discoveries is amplified by its successful Academic Medicine partnership with Singapore Health Services (SingHealth), Singapore's largest healthcare group. This strategic alliance has spawned 15 Academic Clinical Programmes, which harness multi-disciplinary research and education to transform medicine and improve lives.

For more information, please visit http://www. duke-nus. edu. sg

About Nanyang Technological University, Singapore

A research-intensive public university, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore) has 33,000 undergraduate and postgraduate students in the Engineering, Business, Science, Humanities, Arts, & Social Sciences, and Graduate colleges. It also has a medical school, the Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, set up jointly with Imperial College London.

NTU is also home to world-class autonomous institutes - the National Institute of Education, S Rajaratnam School of International Studies, Earth Observatory of Singapore, and Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Sciences Engineering - and various leading research centres such as the Nanyang Environment & Water Research Institute (NEWRI) and Energy Research Institute @ NTU (ERI@N).

Ranked amongst the world's top universities by QS, NTU has also been named the world's top young university for the past seven years. The University's main campus is frequently listed among the Top 15 most beautiful university campuses in the world and it has 57 Green Mark-certified (equivalent to LEED-certified) building projects, of which 95% are certified Green Mark Platinum. Apart from its main campus, NTU also has a campus in Singapore's healthcare district.

Under the NTU Smart Campus vision, the University harnesses the power of digital technology and tech-enabled solutions to support better learning and living experiences, the discovery of new knowledge, and the sustainability of resources.

For more information, visit our website.

For more information, please contact:

National Cancer Centre Singapore

Dharshini Subbiah

Assistant Manager, Corporate Communications

Mobile : 9616 7532

Email : dharshini.subbiah@nccs.com.sg

Duke-NUS Medical School

Yu Zehan

Senior Media Specialist, Communications & Strategic Relations

Mobile : 9839 6957

Email : zehan.yu@duke-nus.edu.sg

Singapore Phenome Centre, Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University Singapore

Shireen Federico

Manager, Publications, Communications and Outreach

Office : 6592 3873

Email : shireen.federico@ntu.edu.sg
WASHINGTON - The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions (SCAI) presented its Master Interventionalists of SCAI (MSCAI) designations during the SCAI 2020 Scientific Sessions Virtual Conference MSCAI recognition ceremony.

The MSCAI designation is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated excellence in invasive/interventional cardiology over the course of their career and for their commitment to the highest levels of clinical care, innovation, publication, and teaching.

This year's MSCAI designations were awarded to the following group of outstanding interventionalists:

Ian C. Gilchrist, MD, MSCAI

Dr. Ian C. Gilchrist is a professor of medicine for Penn State University's College of Medicine at the Hershey Medical Center in Hershey, PA. Dr. Gilchrist graduated from Dartmouth College in Hanover, NH and then obtained his medical degree from Columbia University. He received his residency and cardiology fellowship training at the St. Luke's/Roosevelt Hospital Center in NY, and then an Interventional Cardiology fellowship at the Cooper Medical Center, Camden, NJ. Dr. Gilchrist is board certified in Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Diseases, Interventional Cardiology, and Critical Care Medicine. Dr. Gilchrist has published widely in the cardiovascular field with over 250 papers or book chapters. He has been involved in more than 200 multi-centered drug and device trials. He is probably best known for his advocacy for transradial catheterization which he has performed for more than 25 years at Hershey. He is one of the founding members of the SCAI transradial group and the TRIP radial training courses. He has been instrumental in defining how to incorporate right heart catheterization with transradial techniques and the safety of the procedure while maintaining patients on anticoagulants such as Coumadin. He has also been involved in revamping the health care process such that that stent procedures can be done as a same day procedure without hospital admission resulting in significant reduction in healthcare costs and potential risks of hospitalization. Recent clinical trials have demonstrated that the use of transradial procedures saves life and reduces complications versus the legacy transfemoral approaches and it is now considered the standard of care in most of the world. Dr. Gilchrist has lectured widely on these topics both domestically and internationally.

Eberhard Grube, MD, MSCAI

Professor Eberhard Grube is professor of medicine, head of the Center of Innovative Interventions in Cardiology (CIIC) University Hospital Bonn, Germany and consulting professor, division of cardiovascular medicine, at Stanford University School of Medicine and consulting professor of the INCOR Heart Institute of the University of Sao Paulo, Brazil. Dr. Grube received his first degree in medicine at the Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelm-University in Bonn. His cardiology training was completed at University of Wisconsin, Medical School and University of Bonn, Medical School. Dr. Grube received his board certification in internal medicine, in cardiology and in angiology from the North Rhine Chamber of Medical Doctors and his post-doctoral lecturing qualification from the Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelm-University in Bonn. His research interests include drug eluting stents, distal protection devices, debulking devices, restenosis and in-stent restenosis as well as structural heart disease in particular transcatheter therapy of aortic and mitral diseases.

Carey Kimmelstiel, MD, MSCAI

Dr. Kimmelstiel is the director of the cardiac catheterization laboratories and interventional cardiology at Tufts Medical Center and is a professor of medicine at Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston. He trained at Downstate Medical Center-Kings County Hospital, the University of Massachusetts Medical Center and Tufts Medical Center. Early in his career, Dr. Kimmelstiel's academic interest focused on heart failure. Subsequently, he turned his interest to mechanistic studies focusing on the effect of various pharmacologic agents on platelet function during PCI. More recently, he has focused on structural cardiac interventions, primarily alcohol septal ablation for hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy and PFO closure. Dr. Kimmelstiel was among the earliest interventionalists to perform alcohol septal ablation for HCM. He was also among the first to advance the techniques employed in this procedure by targeting the correct sub-branch vessel with contrast echocardiography allowing smaller doses of ethanol to be used. He is routinely invited to major national and international meetings to lecture on this topic. He has also been at the vanguard in the implantation of PFO/ASD closure devices for cryptogenic strokes or migraines. His volume of implants led the way in the major national trial which led to the FDA approval of this procedure. Dr. Kimmelstiel enjoys clinical research, both as a participant and administrator having served on, or chaired, dozens of clinical events committees and data and safety monitoring boards. He takes pride in collaborating with colleagues to perform novel procedures within the catheterization laboratory which has led to programs in PFO closure, alcohol septal ablation for HCM and even delivery of babies to mothers with high-risk cardiovascular disease. Professionally, Dr. Kimmelstiel is most proud of the fellows that he has helped to train. He is honored to have received many teaching awards, including most recently the Dedication to Teaching Award from his former Interventional Cardiology Fellows. An example of his mentoring and the lasting impact on trainees was his development of an mobile app in which he and former trainees can share coronary angiograms with one another, to exchange advice on approach to complex interventions.

Ehtisham Mahmud, MD, MSCAI

Dr. Ehtisham Mahmud is professor and division chief of cardiovascular medicine and holds the Edith and William Perlman Chair at the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine. He also serves as the executive director of the UC San Diego Cardiovascular Institute and director of its interventional cardiology program. Dr. Mahmud leads one of the largest academic cardiovascular programs in the United States. His research interests include robotics, interventional therapeutics for chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension, investigational pharmacotherapies and devices used in cardiovascular interventions. His clinical focus is on complex coronary, structural heart, and carotid interventions. Dr. Mahmud is extensively published, and serves on multiple regional and national scientific committees. Dr. Mahmud completed fellowships in coronary and peripheral vascular interventions at Emory University in Atlanta and cardiovascular medicine at UC San Diego School of Medicine. He also completed an internal medicine residency at UC San Diego and earned his medical degree at the University of Alberta in Edmonton, Canada. He is board-certified in cardiovascular disease and interventional cardiology. Dr. Mahmud has served on multiple committees for SCAI including chairing the Education and Nominating Committees, having been the program chair for the Annual Scientific Sessions (2018), and as president (2019-2020).

Ron Waksman, MD, MSCAI

Ron Waksman, MD is associate director, division of cardiology, MedStar Washington Hospital Center and director of cardiovascular research and advanced education for the MedStar Heart and Vascular Institute at the MedStar Washington Hospital Center in Washington, DC. With over 20 years of experience in leading edge medical technologies, Dr. Waksman is a world-renowned interventional cardiologist and is a highly sought-after principal investigator for pre-clinical and clinical studies conducted in the United States and abroad. Dr Waksman has performed over 5,000 coronary interventions throughout his career. His current research interests include brachytherapy for restenosis prevention bioabsorbable/ biodegradable stents, HDL therapy, intracoronary imaging, valvular heart disease and catheter-based treatment of renal denervation. Dr. Waksman has authored/co-authored more than 310 published manuscripts and over 230 abstracts. He is also the author/co-author of more than 20 book chapters and the editor/co-editor of six books in the field of cardiology. He earned his medical degree from the Ben Gurion University in Israel and completed residencies in medicine, cardiology, and interventional cardiology at Hadassah University in Jerusalem, Israel. Subsequently, Dr. Waksman completed his fellowship in interventional cardiology in 1994 at Emory University Hospital in Atlanta, GA.

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About SCAI

The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions is a professional organization representing more than 4,000 invasive and interventional cardiology professionals in approximately 75 nations. SCAI's mission is to promote excellence in invasive/interventional cardiovascular medicine through physician education and representation, and advancement of quality standards to enhance patient care.
RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. -- A new medical technology stops traumatic bleeding without requiring wound compression for Soldiers on the battlefield. Hemorrhaging is a leading cause of preventable death for Soldiers in combat.

The simplicity, potential for deployability and proposed affordability of this technology under development allows Soldiers to carry a life-saving solution in their pocket.

Through a project funded by the Defense Health Agency Small Business Innovation Research, or SBIR, program, Hybrid Plastics, the University of Mississippi Medical Center, Vanderbilt University and Ichor Sciences developed StatBond, which treats uncontrolled bleeding from noncompressible areas of the body that include the groin, trunk, armpit, neck and internal organs. Currently, there is no battlefield treatment for such bleeding because these injuries are not responsive to the compression dressings currently carried by Soldiers and medics.

The Defense Health Agency supported the research and development of this device as a part of an SBIR contract, with technical oversight provided by the Army Research Laboratory, an element of the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command, known as DEVCOM.

"This technology provides a new capability to stop bleeding under austere conditions," said Dr. Robert Mantz, a chemistry branch chief with ARL at its Research Triangle Park location. "It's encouraging to see the potential applications of breakthrough basic science research being put into the hands of Soldiers."

A new medical technology, StatBond stops traumatic bleeding without requiring wound compression for Soldiers on the battlefield. Hemorrhage is the leading cause of preventable death for Soldiers.

The research team identified that visco-liquid hemostatic agents could be an alternative treatment to compression. The liquid characteristic provides for deep penetration into a wound channel, and the immediate suppression of fluid loss.

"The breakthrough nature of the device lies in the ability of the hemostatic gel to flow deeply into penetrating wounds, and immediately seal against fluid loss, thereby allowing the natural blood clotting cascade to happen against the surface of the gel," said Dr. Joe Lichtenhan, vice president of Technology, Hybrid Plastics, a Mississippi-based nanotechnology company. "It is really remarkable this device works without compression. It offers the potential for Soldiers to self-treat or to provide non-medic buddy care."

The technology behind the development is based on proprietary silicon-like formulations developed by Hybrid Plastics. The Royal Society of Chemistry journal Dalton Transactions (2017) published preliminary findings of their research.

The research team finds that visco-liquid hemostatic agents could be an alternative treatment to compression. The liquid characteristic provides for deep penetration into a wound channel, and the immediate suppression of fluid loss.

In addition to treating traumatic bleeding injuries, StatBond can also be used to treat lung punctures, eye injuries, burn wounds and prevent infection. Bleeding may not be associated with these types of injuries, but they all commonly have a need to prevent fluid loss and maintain tissue viability. For these injuries, Statbond seals the damaged tissue against further fluid loss while retaining oxygen transport to the injury, which aids in tissue preservation and supports the natural healing process and tissue regeneration.

Statbond is undergoing FDA registration and packaging development. For civilian use, it will be packaged in syringe form while warfighters are anticipated to be provided the device in the form of a durable pocket carry squeeze pack.

In contrast to the basic research programs managed by ARO, this program focuses primarily on feasibility studies leading to prototype demonstration and productized testing for specific applications. The SBIR program funds research and technology development with small businesses using a three-phase process.

With the success of Phase I and II, the Army awarded the research team a Phase III contract to the team to further mature the technology. As part of the award, the team will advance the device's manufacturing readiness level to pilot line capability and the Department of Defense will conduct medical investigations on its performance and potential for deployability for treatment of battlefield polytrauma.

"We are committed to bringing advanced medical technology and devices to the wounded warfighter," Lichtenhan said. "We anticipate the technology will become available for use by physicians in 2022 and potentially carried by soldiers by 2025."

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Visit the laboratory's Media Center to discover more Army science and technology stories

DEVCOM Army Research Laboratory is an element of the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command. As the Army's corporate research laboratory, ARL is operationalizing science to achieve transformational overmatch. Through collaboration across the command's core technical competencies, DEVCOM leads in the discovery, development and delivery of the technology-based capabilities required to make Soldiers more successful at winning the nation's wars and come home safely. DEVCOM is a major subordinate command of the Army Futures Command.
In material physics understanding how systems interact across the interfaces separating them is of central interest. But can physical models clarify similar concepts in living systems, such as cells? Physicists at the University of Geneva (UNIGE), in collaboration with the University of Zurich (UZH), used the framework of disordered elastic systems to study the process of wound healing - the proliferation of cell fronts which eventually join to close a lesion. Their study identified the scales of the dominant interactions between cells which determine this process. The results, published in the journal Scientific Reports, will allow better analysis of cell front behaviour, in terms of both wound healing and tumour development. In the future, this approach may offer personalised diagnostics to classify cancers and better target their treatment, and identify new pharmacological targets for transplantation.

By focusing on macroscopic properties of large datasets, statistical physics makes it possible to extract an overview of system behaviour independent of its specific microscopic character. Applied to biological elements, such as the cell fronts bordering a wound, this approach makes it possible to identify the various interactions which play a defining role during tissue growth, differentiation, and healing, but above all to highlight their hierarchy at the different scales observed. Patrycja Paruch, professor in the Department of Quantum Matter Physics at the UNIGE Faculty of Science, explains: "For cancer tumour invasion, or in the event of a wound, cell front proliferation is crucial, but the speed and morphology of the front is highly variable. However, we believe that only a few dominant interactions during this process will define the dynamics and the shape - smooth or rough, for example - of the cell colony edge. Experimental observations across multiple lengthscales to extract general behaviours can allow us to identify these interactions in healthy tissue and diagnose at what level pathological changes can occur, to help combat them. This is where statistical physics comes in."

The many scales of wound healing

In this multidisciplinary study, the UNIGE physicists collaborated with the team of Professor Steven Brown from the UZH. Using rat epithelial cells, they established flat colonies (2D) in which the cells grow around a silicone insert, subsequently removed to mimic an open lesion. The cell fronts then proliferate to fill the opening and heal the tissue. "We reproduced five possible scenarios by 'handicapping' the cells in different ways, in order to see what impact this has on wound healing, i.e. on the speed and roughness of the cell front", explains Guillaume Rapin, a researcher in Patrycja Paruch's team. The idea is to see what happens in normal healthy tissue, or when processes such as cell division and communication between neighbouring cells are inhibited, when cell mobility is reduced or when cells are permanently pharmacologically stimulated. "We took some 300 images every four hours for about 80 hours, which allowed us to observe the proliferating cell fronts at very different scales", continues Guillaume Rapin. "By applying high-performance computational techniques, we were able to compare our experimental observations with the results of numerical simulations", adds Nirvana Caballero, another researcher in Patrycja Paruch's team.

Zooming out for greater effect

The scientists observed two distinct roughness regimes: at less than 15 micrometres, below the size of a single cell, and between 80 and 200 micrometres, when several cells are involved. "We have analysed how the roughness exponent evolves over time to reach its natural dynamic equilibrium, depending on the pharmacochemical conditions we have imposed on the cells, and how this roughness increases depending on the scale at which we look", emphasises Nirvana Caballero. "In a system with a single dominant interaction, we expect to see the same roughness exponent at all scales. Here, we see a changing roughness if we look at the scale of one cell or of ten cells."

The Geneva and Zurich teams revealed only minor variations in the roughness exponent below 15 micrometres, whatever the conditions imposed on the cell fronts. On the other hand, they found that between 80 and 150 micrometers, the roughness is altered by all pharmacological inhibitors, significantly reducing the roughness exponent. Moreover, they observed that proliferation speed varied greatly between the different pharmacochemical conditions, slowing when cell division and motility were inhibited, and accelerating when cells were stimulated. "More surprisingly, the fastest proliferation speed was achieved when gap-junction communication between cells was blocked", says Guillaume Rapin. This observation suggests that such communication may be targeted in future therapies, either to promote healing of burns or wounds, or to slow cancer tumour invasion.

These results show that medium-scale interactions play a crucial role in determining the healthy proliferation of a cell front. "We now know at what scale biologists should look for problematic behaviour of cell fronts, which can lead to the development of tumours", says Nirvana Caballero. Now scientists will be able to focus on these key lenghtscales to probe tumour cells fronts, and directly compare their pathological interactions with this of healthy cells.

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A study encompassing some 9,000 dogs conducted at the University of Helsinki demonstrated that fearfulness, age, breed, the company of other members of the same species and the owner's previous experience of dogs were associated with aggressive behaviour towards humans. The findings can potentially provide tools for understanding and preventing aggressive behaviour.

Aggressive behaviour in dogs can include growling, barking, snapping and biting. These gestures are part of normal canine communication, and they also occur in non-aggressive situations, such as during play. However, aggressive behaviour can be excessive, making the dog a health threat to both humans and other animals.

"Understanding the factors underlying aggressive behaviour is important. In what kinds of circumstances does aggressive behaviour occur and what is the dog's motive for such behaviour? In normal family dogs, aggressive behaviour is often unwanted, while some dogs with official duties are expected to have the capacity for aggressiveness. At the same time, aggressiveness can be caused by welfare issues, such as chronic pain," says doctoral researcher Salla Mikkola from the University of Helsinki.

The canine gene research group active at the University of Helsinki surveyed connections between aggressive behaviour and several potential risk factors with the help of a dataset encompassing more than 9,000 dogs, a sample from a larger dataset from a behavioural survey dataset of nearly 14,000 dogs. The study investigated aggressiveness towards both dog owners and unfamiliar human beings. Dogs were classified as aggressive if they growled often and/or had attempted to snap at or bite a human at least occasionally in the situations described in the survey.

"Dogs' fearfulness had a strong link to aggressive behaviour, with fearful dogs many times more likely to behave aggressively. Moreover, older dogs were more likely to behave aggressively than younger ones. One of the potential reasons behind this can be pain caused by a disease. Impairment of the senses can contribute to making it more difficult to notice people approaching, and dogs' responses to sudden situations can be aggressive," Mikkola adds.

Small dogs are more likely to behave aggressively than mid-sized and large dogs, but their aggressive behaviour is not necessarily considered as threatening as that of large dogs. Consequently, their behaviour is not addressed. In addition, the study found that male dogs were more aggressive than females. However, sterilisation had no effect on aggressive behaviour.

The first dogs of dog owners were more likely to behave aggressively compared to dogs whose owners had previous experience of dogs. The study also indicated that dogs that spend time in the company of other dogs behave less aggressively than dogs that live without other dogs in the household. While this phenomenon has been observed in prior research, the causality remains unclear.

"In the case of dogs prone to aggressive behaviour in the first instance, owners may not necessarily wish to take a risk of conflicts with another dog," Mikkola muses.

Significant differences in aggressive behaviour between breeds

Differences in the aggressiveness of various dog breeds can point to a genetic cause.

"In our dataset, the Long-Haired Collie, Poodle (Toy, Miniature and Medium) and Miniature Schnauzer were the most aggressive breeds. Previous studies have shown fearfulness in Long-Haired Collies, while the other two breeds have been found to express aggressive behaviour towards unfamiliar people. As expected, the popular breeds of Labrador Retriever and Golden Retriever were at the other extreme. People who are considering getting a dog should familiarise themselves with the background and needs of the breed. As for breeders, they should also pay attention to the character of dam candidates, since both fearfulness and aggressive behaviour are inherited," says Professor Hannes Lohi from the University of Helsinki.

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This study is part of a wider Academy of Finland project that investigates the epidemiology of canine behaviour, as well as related environmental and genetic factors and metabolic changes. Professor Hannes Lohi's research group conducts research at the Faculties of Veterinary Medicine and Medicine, University of Helsinki, as well as the Folkhalsan Research Center. This study was supported, among others, by the Academy of Finland (308887), the European Research Council (Starting Grant), the ERA-NET NEURON funding platform and the Jane and Aatos Erkko Foundation.
Nearly 10,000 acres of lush seagrass vanished from Florida Bay between 1987 and 1991, leading to massive ecological changes in the region near the Florida Keys. Abundance of the seagrass, Thalassia testudinum, more commonly known as turtlegrass, a foundation species of the Florida Bay ecosystem, decreased extensively during what is considered to be one of the largest declines in seagrass cover in recent history.

Researchers from the University of South Florida, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and the University of North Carolina Wilmington documented the response of seagrasses after the die-off. Their detailed data collection for over 20 years across the large area of impact has provided unique insight into seagrass resiliency or the ability of a coastal ecosystem to recover after the extensive loss. This study, published in "Scientific Reports," is extremely timely as the work provides a framework for how future recovery of a new seagrass die-off, recorded in 2015 in the same location, may still be possible.

Seagrass plays an important role across much of the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean Sea, providing critical habitat and feeding grounds for many species of fish, turtles and other wildlife. They're considered to be one of the most productive ecosystems in the world and in Florida Bay contribute to a sport fishing industry worth hundreds of millions of dollars per year.

USF Distinguished University Professor Susan Bell first learned of the 1987 large-scale seagrass die-off in Florida when she got a call from a long-time fisherman friend who noticed the seagrass disappearing and large amounts of dead seagrass. Bell notified colleagues at FWC, who began to detail what was happening across a roughly 15 square mile stretch of the bay.

For more than 10 years, researchers saw little to no change in seagrass, especially in the levels of turtlegrass. However, after another decade of monitoring, researchers reported a return to pre-die-off levels of turtlegrass in the region. The study shows that the entire sequence of die-off, algal blooms and recovery took 17-23 years. Both the long duration of the study and large area over which the data were systematically collected were unique to reports of seagrass recovery. Also, most studies of marine populations that recover from some kind of disturbance are linked to human intervention, such as removing a source of pollution, but in this case the recovery required no human activities.

"While the fact this system recovered after the 1980s die-off is fantastic, we really wanted to figure out the mechanisms that allowed recovery to happen," said Bell, a faculty member in the USF Department of Integrative Biology. "What we discuss are a number of features that underlie the seagrass recovery: the system was remote, remnants of seagrass leftover after the die-off served as a catalyst for repopulation and having multiple species of seagrass present increases the likelihood for recovery."

In the last case, two opportunistic seagrass species were first to increase in abundance after the die-off and likely facilitated the return of turtlegrass.

Bell believes this study can serve as a framework for other regions experiencing seagrass die-off, including once again in Florida Bay, which is still in the midst of the die-off that began in 2015. Their work warns that evaluation of ecosystem resiliency may take decades to detect, mandating long-term studies. Researchers are continuing to study the changes in Florida Bay, but are hopeful that with the right conditions, the region can once again return to normal.

"Today, this monitoring program provides some of our best information on the status of the system," said Brad Furman, a co-author of the study and research scientist at FWC's Fish and Wildlife Research Institute. "Studies like this one allow us to set expectations for recovery, something we did not have in the 1990s, which is extremely important as we watch the Bay respond to the most recent die-off event."

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Ensuring that veterans have stable housing not only reduces homelessness but also slashes the cost of providing them with publicly funded health care, according to a national study led by University of Utah Health scientists. The researchers found that veterans who received temporary financial assistance (TFA) from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to acquire or retain housing had fewer hospital visits and an average reduction in health care costs of $2,800 over a two-year period than veterans who did not receive this benefit.

The researchers say this model could help non-profit organizations and other federal, state, and local governments better serve homeless Americans who are not veterans.

"Getting veterans experiencing homelessness into stable housing is desirable for a whole host of social, health, economic, and moral reasons," says Richard E. Nelson, Ph.D., the study's lead author and a research associate professor of internal medicine at U of U Health. "In this case, the overarching finding of our research is that providing veterans with temporary financial assistance helps them get into stable housing and reduces health care costs--particularly inpatient health care costs. This should be seen as a 'win-win' for the average person or taxpayer."

The study appears in the May issue of Health Affairs.

On any given night, about 40,000 American veterans are homeless, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Thousands more are at risk of losing their homes every day, Nelson says.

Homelessness is associated with myriad health care problems, including HIV/AIDS, malnutrition, skin infections, tuberculosis and pneumonia, and substance abuse. As a result, VA's specialized homelessness programs provide health care to almost 150,000 homeless veterans annually.

In previous research, Nelson and his colleagues found that homeless veterans or those at risk of becoming homeless who received TFA provided by VA's Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program were more likely to have stable housing 90 days after enrolling in the program than those who didn't receive the program's short-term subsidies.

Building on that finding, the scientists sought to determine if TFA also had an impact on utilization of VA health care facilities by these veterans. They identified 29,184 veterans who had received TFA through the SSFA program in 49 states as well as 11,229 who participated in other aspects of SSFA but did not receive TFA.

The researchers analyzed data on these veterans from two years prior to SSVF enrollment to two years after in quarterly increments. Overall, health care costs increased sharply in the eight quarters prior to SSVF enrollment. However, health care costs decreased an average of $352 per quarter for SSVF veterans receiving TFA following enrollment compared to those who didn't receive this benefit. This decrease was consistent regardless of the amount of TFA received, which on average was about $6,000 over the course of SSVF participation, which averaged about three months.

The magnitude of the decrease was larger for those who were homeless at enrollment compared to those who were on the brink of it but remained in their homes because of their TFA allocation. This difference was due, in part, to the fact that homeless veterans are more likely to be hospitalized.

In some instances, the decrease in health care costs offset the total TFA amount VA allotted to these veterans, potentially reducing the overall outlay for their care and well-being. The researchers say this finding could have implications for efforts to alleviate homelessness and its accompanying health care issues among other populations.

"Historically, housing and health care have been considered separate things," Nelson says. "By showing that they are linked--that improving somebody's housing situation might also improve their health status--this finding could have a big impact on how we approach these challenges among veterans and other citizens in the future."

Among the study's limitations, health care costs for veterans who use non-VA providers were not included in the analysis. Veterans are also more likely than the general population to be male and have a higher risk of substance abuse and mental illness, two conditions commonly associated with homelessness.

Moving forward, the researchers plan to examine whether other SSVF services such as legal assistance, credit counseling, and obtaining VA benefits can improve housing and health care outcomes for veterans who are homeless or at risk of it. In addition, since reduced health care spending doesn't necessarily improve health, they will explore more direct measures, such as mortality.

"There has been a huge shift over the past 10 to 15 years in homeless assistance policies toward interventions like the one we studied," says Thomas H. Byrne, Ph.D., the study's senior author, an investigator at VA Bedford Healthcare System in Bedford, Massachusetts, and an assistant professor of Social Work at Boston University. "Yet, there is limited evidence to date about their effectiveness. Our findings help provide some much-needed evidence about the impact of such interventions."

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In addition to Dr. Nelson, University of Utah Health researchers Ying Suo, James Cook, Warren Pettey, and Tom Greene contributed to this study. Other contributors included scientists from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, University of Norte Dame, University of California Los Angeles, Boston University, and the University of Texas Health Sciences Center in San Antonio.

The study, "Temporary Financial Assistance Decreased Health Care Costs For Veterans Experiencing Housing Instability," appears in Health Affairs. It was supported by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Health Services Research and Development Service.
Many people in Switzerland experienced considerable psychological distress during the first COVID-19 lockdown from mid-March to the end of April 2020. Researchers from the Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy at the University Hospital of Psychiatry Zurich (PUK) and the University of Zurich in collaboration with the La Source School of Nursing have now examined the most common sources of stress among children, adolescents, their parents and young adults. For their study, the researchers used representative samples in Switzerland of 1,627 young adults aged 19 to 24 as well as 1,146 children and adolescents between the ages of 12 and 17 and their parents.

Uncertainty, disruption, postponement

"Uncertainty during last year's lockdown was considerable and had a negative impact on mental health," explains Meichun Mohler-Kuo, professor at PUK and La Source. Children and adolescents felt most stressed by having to change, postpone or cancel important plans or events and being unable to participate in social activities and normal routines during leisure time and at school. The main sources of stress for adults were not knowing when the pandemic will end, coping with the massive disruptions to social life and having to reorganize work and family life.

Mental health problems of young adults

The study found that many young adults, and young women in particular, experienced symptoms of mental illness during the first lockdown. More than half (54%) of young women and 38% of young men reported mild to severe symptoms of depression. Almost half of young women (47%) and one-third (33%) of young men experienced mild to severe anxiety. "In general, these results are quite similar to the results from a representative study carried out in 2018," Mohler-Kuo says. "It's notable, however, that monthly risky alcohol use decreased dramatically during lockdown, from 34% to 21%. This decrease was more pronounced in women than in men."

Mental health problems in over one-third of kids

Overall, more than one-third of the children and adolescents screened positive for one of the mental health problems assessed in the study. More than 20% of boys and girls showed symptoms related to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). 18% of girls and 11% of boys displayed unruly and angry behavior and thus symptoms of what is known as oppositional defiant disorder (ODD). "This came as a surprise, since these symptoms had previously been observed less frequently overall, but significantly more often in boys than in girls," says Susanne Walitza, last author of the study. In addition, 14% of girls and 13% of boys experienced anxiety symptoms, while symptoms of depression were reported by 10% (girls) and 5% (boys). "Our findings show that children and adolescents are particularly at risk of developing mental disorders," says Walitza.

One-fifth with problematic internet use

For both children/adolescents and young adults, the median time spent on the internet per day was 240 minutes during lockdown. More than 40% of men and 35% of women used the internet for more than 4 hours per day, while about 8% of children, adolescents and young adults were online for more than 6 hours a day. Overall, 30% of children and 21% of young adults met the criteria for problematic internet use.

More help for kindergartens, schools and sports clubs

The findings demonstrate how important it is to maintain routines, schedules, social contacts and support structures during lockdown. The authors of the study thus recommend that health and education authorities should provide more support to institutions, such as kindergartens, schools, and sports organizations, to avoid the detriments of lockdowns.

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Live videos, big data stream profits into Chinese pineapple farmers' pockets

Xinhua) 10:50, May 03, 2021

Wang Xiaoying and Wu Jianlian, locals of Xuwen County, south China's Guangdong Province, buried themselves under a sea of pineapples to promote the sweet treat via livestreaming and short videos all through the month of March, high season for the prickly fruit.

Xuwen, located on the southernmost tip of the Chinese mainland, boasts volcanic soil that is at least tens of thousands of years old, which, combined with a low altitude and abundant rainfall, contributes to a conducive environment for pineapples.

Dubbed the largest plantation base in China, the county grows one out of every three pineapples in the country, registering an annual output of nearly 700,000 tonnes.

While output of the fruit faces no issues, the same cannot be said of sales. Answering China's call of vitalizing its rural areas and trying to cure sales stagnation, Wang and Wu began creating live broadcasts and videos that have proven to be successful.

The field purchase price per kilo rallied in March, punching through the eight yuan barrier (about 1.24 U.S. dollars), the highest recorded price in over three decades. This uptick left farmers, including Wu, smiling from ear to ear.

A LINGERING CONUNDRUM

The tropical fruit is not always sweet, as farmers have found themselves stuck at the rough end of the pineapple from time to time.

Sales have been a long-standing issue over the years, though reasons vary from problematic cultivation to a mismatch between supply and demand.

Wang, a 26-year-old native and the daughter of pineapple farmers, has grown up seeing dull sales and financial loss constantly hovering over pineapple fields.

At the height of COVID-19 in 2020, another dull season was in the making, threatening produce in various areas, including Xuwen.

In order to help promote the sweet local specialty, Wang, then an anchor at a local television station, hosted a livestream in February of 2020. Tens of thousands of buyers tuned in, and more than 1.65 million jin (825 tonnes) of pineapples were traded. And Wang rose to fame.

LIVE-STREAMING

Wang marveled at the chemistry between livestreaming and produce marketing and realized that "expertise is imperative."

She and Wu made a perfect duo. Almost three decades into the trade and running pineapple plantation and trading market in Xuwen, Wu knows the industry chain well.

Defying the scorching sun and pineapple's stiff, jagged leaves, the pair, nicknamed "pineapple sisters," livestreamed amid lines of crops.

Their livestreams have gone viral, attracting as many as 40,000 potential buyers to shop online simultaneously, a spectacle never seen in brick-and-mortar markets.

Local farmers have become webcast savvy, too. Once loathing to be filmed, they now scramble for a few shots in live shows, according to Wang.

"They can rake in somewhere between 5,000 to 6,000 yuan from one mu of fields on average," she said. "More and more well-to-do families have built themselves multi-story mansions and shelled out for private cars."

BIG DATA

Showing a steep learning curve, the local government quickly moved in. They aspired to make Xuwen and its pineapple trade a jewel in the crown of high-quality agricultural development in Guangdong Province, and even the country.

They devised a digitally-equipped mechanism spanning production and markets. In the multidimensional mechanism, big data technology is employed to track developments in production and markets, said Huang Jiatuan, an official in charge of agricultural and rural affairs in the county. Marketing events are hosted by farmers or buyers in a reciprocal manner, where streamers like Wang and Wu have an important role to play.

The mechanism was put into operation in 2019. Postal Savings Bank of China (PSBC), which operates a sprawling financial network in China's rural areas, saw a total of 680 million yuan in new deposits recorded in its 25 outlets in Xuwen during the year. Qujie Township, the main pineapple production zone in the county, contributed more than 100 million yuan.

In 2020, the town deposited another 365 million yuan in the local outlet of PSBC despite the COVID-19 epidemic.

Since the inception of the mechanism, the industry has not seen sales return to the lulls it experienced in previous years, said Huang, though the price has fluctuated.

Riding on past success in pineapple sales, Wang now promotes more native fruits in her webcast studio, hoping to contribute more to her hometown's bright future.

(Web editor: Zhange Wenjie, Bianji)
KakaoPay CEO Ryu Young-joon, left, and Financial Services Commission (FSC) Chairman Eun Sung-soo applaud at the ceremony for the launch of the open banking service in this December 2019 file photo. Courtesy of FSC



By Park Jae-hyuk



KakaoPay is facing difficulties achieving its grand goal of launching an internet-only insurance company in the second half of the year, raising concerns that this could possibly have a negative impact on its planned initial public offering (IPO).



The mobile payment unit of Kakao has yet to receive preliminary approval for the establishment of its digital non-life insurer, after applying Dec. 29.



Following KakaoPay's initial application, the Financial Supervisory Service (FSS) found several deficiencies in the documents it submitted, forcing the company to correct the flaws and resubmit the revised documentation March 19. The FSS then sent the results of its screening to the Financial Services Commission (FSC) in mid-April.



Because the FSC made a public announcement about KakaoPay's application regarding preliminary approval April 23, the financial regulator had been expected to discuss the matter at its regular meeting last Wednesday. However, the issue wasn't touched upon because the FSC has not yet finished its screening procedure.



"There are more criteria we should consider, such as innovativeness and consumer protection, because this is the first time for a tech firm to enter the insurance industry," an official of the FSC's insurance division said. "We expect to finish the screening procedure in June or July."



"We are waiting for the financial authorities' decision at this moment, but we have not changed our plan to set up a digital insurance company within the year," a KakaoPay spokeswoman said.



According to sources familiar with the issue, the FSC has demanded KakaoPay specify how it will release insurance products that haven't existed before in the industry. The financial regulator is also reportedly going all out to minimize any backlash from conventional insurance companies.



When KakaoPay announced its application for preliminary approval earlier this year, the company said it would combine insurance with technology to protect its customers from everyday risks. It also promised cooperation with other Kakao affiliates to introduce innovative services.



However, such services are unlikely to be seen before the end of the year.



Even if KakaoPay receives preliminary approval in June, the company will have to apply for final approval within six months of this, and it takes a couple of months of screening before receiving the go ahead. After final approval, it could take an additional couple of months to establish an entity for the internet-only insurance business.



Another digital insurer, Carrot General Insurance, for example, was established in January 2020, after getting final approval in October 2019, nine months after its application for preliminary approval.



KakaoPay has already faced a setback in winning a license for the MyData business, which enables financial firms to receive their customers' credit information from conventional financial firms, so that customers can access all their financial data from one place.



Although it applied for preliminary approval for the license last December, the financial authorities delayed screening of the eligibility of its major shareholders since the authorities in China had not confirmed whether Alipay, which has a 43.9 percent stake in KakaoPay, was under any sanctions there. Other fintech firms, including Naver Financial, Viva Republica and Banksalad, secured their MyData licenses earlier this year.



A series of difficulties involving KakaoPay's new businesses are considered "negative factors" for the company's planned IPO, expected to take place in July at the earliest.



The fintech firm applied for a preliminary screening of its listing on the benchmark KOSPI market April 26. Lead underwriters for the IPO are Samsung Securities, Goldman Sachs and JPMorgan. Daishin Securities is also participating as a co-underwriter.


Conspiratorial narratives of internal disintegration and external threats affect views in the European Union and Europe to an increasing extent. Our trust in society is put to the test in crises such as COVID-19 when various groups are singled out as the villains. In extreme cases, this can inspire acts of terror. Researchers from Uppsala University are among those demonstrating this in the new book Europe: Continent of Conspiracies. Conspiracy Theories in and about Europe.

"For example, we can see how the refugee crisis in 2015-2016 led to a polarising climate of debate. Migration was portrayed as a conscious attempt to obliterate nation states and European identity. Such ideas still circulate in the press and social media and are used by populist political forces," says Andreas Onnerfors, associate professor at the Department of History at Uppsala University. He and opinion researcher Andre Krouwel of VU Amsterdam (Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam) edited the book.

The volume is a result of the European Comparative Analysis of Conspiracy Theories COMPACT research project, which took place from 2016 to 2020. Fifteen authors - including political scientists, media researchers, social psychologists and historians - address the subject in 13 chapters.

Quantitative opinion studies encompassing viewpoints from a large number of people throughout Europe are one of the scientific methods used. The book also includes analyses of media reporting, textual interpretation of terrorist manifestos and investigations into how conspiracy theories have been used to mobilise voter support. The researchers have also taken into account results from several previous studies.

They found a clear correlation between people sceptical about European cooperation and conspiracy theory thinking. In the shadow of rising immigration, particularly in the context of the 2015 refugee crisis, populists managed to exploit people's need for easy answers to complex problems and to single out culprits for the negative developments, the researchers write.

One chapter analyses the British press in the context of the Brexit referendum. It shows how blame placed on the EU and xenophobia interacted. Other examples of how conspiracy theories have flourished include the Greek debt crisis, which revived anti-German narratives and the myth that the EU is really a continuation of the Third Reich. Some conspiratorial movements also deny the existence of the Federal Republic of Germany which led to attempts to storm the German Reichstag in Berlin during the 2020 demonstrations against the coronavirus.

The researchers assert that radicalisation driven by conspiracy theories has inspired acts of terror in some cases, such as on two separate occasions in Germany. In 2019 a right-wing extremist opened fire on a synagogue, and in 2020 another person with racist motives murdered 10 people in an attack on several hookah cafes.

Andreas Onnerfors deals with this in his chapter examining how the racist and xenophobic conspiracy theory about 'the great replacement' may have motivated these two acts of terror. French right-wing extremist writer Renaud Camus (1946-) developed this conspiracy theory, arguing that migration to Europe needs to be regarded as a bio-political weapon. He asserts that European elites have allied themselves with the invading masses to extinguish the soul and essence of the Continent.

"I have analysed the German translations and popularisations of Renaud Camus's texts. My interpretation is that they have underpinned and legitimised the acts of terror in Germany in 2019 and 2020. Both perpetrators left their own terrorist manifestos behind. These are deeply influenced by anti-Semitic and Islamophobic conspiracy theories that can be directly linked to Renaud Camus's ideas," Onnerfors says.

One conclusion the researchers draw is that there is a contradictory duality in the conspiratorial worldview of Europe and the EU. On the one hand, it portrays Europe and its political unity as a powerful threat that conspires against the diversity and individuality of nation states. On the other hand, it describes Europe as a feeble and dying force too weak to defend itself against the plots created by various external enemies.

"Our book is the first to treat an entire continent as the subject of conspiracy theory thinking. We see the risks that these narratives might undermine Europe's political culture and lead to a greater fragmentation of society," says Onnerfors.

The book: Andreas Onnerfors, Andre Krouwel (2021). Europe: Continent of Conspiracies. Conspiracy Theories in and about Europe. Routledge, April 30, 2021, 282 Pages, ISBN: 9780367500689.

More about Comparative Analysis of Conspiracy Theories, COMPACT: http://www. conspiracytheories. eu

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A Wyss Institute-led collaboration spanning four research labs and hundreds of miles has used the Institute's organ-on-a-chip (Organ Chip) technology to identify the antimalarial drug amodiaquine as a potent inhibitor of infection with SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.

The Organ Chip-based drug testing ecosystem established by the collaboration greatly streamlines the process of evaluating the safety and efficacy of existing drugs for new medical applications, and provides a proof-of-concept for the use of Organ Chips to rapidly repurpose existing drugs for new medical applications, including future pandemics. The research is reported in Nature Biomedical Engineering.

While many groups around the world have been testing existing drugs for efficacy against COVID-19 using cultured cells, it is well known that cells grown in a dish do not behave like the cells in a living human body, and many drugs that appear effective in lab studies do not work in patients. The Wyss team examined eight existing drugs, including hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine, that they and others had found were active against SARS-CoV-2 in conventional cell culture assays.

When tested in their more sophisticated microfluidic Lung Airway Chip, which had been infected with a pseudotyped SARS-CoV-2 virus, they found that most of these drugs, including hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine, were not effective. However, another antimalarial drug, amodiaquine, was highly effective at preventing viral entry. These results were then validated in cultured cells and in a small animal model of COVID-19 using infectious SARS-CoV-2 virus. Amodiaquine is now in clinical trials for COVID-19 at multiple sites in Africa, where this drug is inexpensive and widely available.

"The speed with which this team assembled, pivoted to COVID-19, and produced clinically significant results is astonishing," said senior author and Wyss Institute Founding Director Don Ingber, M.D., Ph.D. "We started testing these compounds in February 2020, had data by March, and published a preprint in April. Thanks to the openness and collaboration that the pandemic has sparked within the scientific community, our lead drug is now being tested in humans. It's a powerful testament to Organ Chips' ability to accelerate preclinical testing."

From mysterious disease to lead compound in months

In the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic when little was known about the novel SARS-CoV-2 virus, efforts were made around the globe to identify existing drugs that could be repurposed to treat patients who were falling ill. While early data performed on cells grown in lab dishes seemed to suggest that the antimalarial drugs chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine could treat the disease, later studies showed that they aren't active against SARS-CoV-2 in animals or patients, and the quest for an effective oral therapeutic that can both treat and prevent COVID-19 continues.

Fortunately, the Wyss Institute had a ready-made solution to that problem. In a move that today seems prescient, over three years ago the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) and National Institutes of Health (NIH) awarded funding to Ingber's team to explore whether its human Organ Chip microfluidic culture technology, which faithfully mimics the function of human organs in vitro, could be used to confront potential biothreat challenges including pandemic respiratory viruses.

Two years into the project, the team was making steady progress using its lung Airway Chip to study drugs that could be repurposed to treat influenza virus infections. Then, in January 2020, first authors Longlong Si, Ph.D. and Haiqing Bai, Ph.D. heard about cases of what was being called a novel viral pneumonia in China.

"That caught a lot of scientists' attention, because any new virus could become a global threat given how easily infections spread in today's era of widespread international travel. We closely followed the updates because we thought that our Airway Chip model could provide an important tool for studying this virus," said Si, a Wyss Technology Development Fellow and co-lead author. Once it became clear that people were falling ill due to the mysterious COVID-19 and not pneumonia, the team quickly shifted its focus to the novel SARS-CoV-2 virus.

The human Airway Chip that the Wyss team developed for these studies is a microfluidic device about the size of a USB memory stick that contains two parallel channels separated by a porous membrane. Human lung airway cells are grown in one channel that is perfused with air, while human blood vessel cells are grown in the other channel, which is perfused with liquid culture medium to mimic blood flow. Cells grown in this device naturally differentiate into multiple airway-specific cell types in proportions that are similar to those in the human airway, and develop traits observed in living lungs such as cilia and the ability to produce and move mucus. Airway Chip cells also have higher levels of angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE2) receptor protein, which plays a central role in lung physiology and is used by SARS-CoV-2 to infect cells.

"Our biggest challenge in shifting our focus to SARS-CoV-2 was that we don't have lab facilities with the necessary infrastructure to safely study dangerous pathogens. To get around that problem, we designed a SARS-CoV-2 pseudovirus that expresses the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, so that we could identify drugs that interfere with the spike protein's ability to bind to human lung cells' ACE2 receptors," said Bai, who is a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Wyss Institute and co-lead author. "A secondary goal was to demonstrate that these types of studies could be carried out by other Organ Chip researchers who similarly have this technology, but lack access to lab facilities required to study highly infectious viruses."

Armed with the pseudovirus that allowed them to study SARS-CoV-2 infection, the team first perfused the Airway Chips' blood vessel channel with several approved drugs, including amodiaquine, toremifene, clomiphene, chloroquine, hydroxychloroquine, arbidol, verapamil, and amiodarone, all of which have exhibited activity against other related viruses in previous studies. However, in contrast to static culture studies, they were able to perfuse the drug through the channels of the chip using a clinically relevant dose to mimic how the drug would be distributed to tissues in our bodies. After 24 hours they introduced SARS-CoV-2 pseudovirus into the Airway Chips' air channel to mimic infection by airborne viruses, like that in a cough or sneeze.

Only three of these drugs ? amodiaquine, toremifene, and clomiphene ? significantly prevented viral entry without producing cell damage in the Airway Chips. The most potent drug, amodiaquine, reduced infection by about 60%. The team also performed spectrometry measurements with the assistance of Steve Gygi, Ph.D.'s group at Harvard Medical School to assess how the drugs impacted the airway cells. These studies revealed that amodiaquine produced distinct and broader protein changes than the other antimalarial drugs.

The researchers had a lead drug candidate.

All hands on deck

Despite the promise of amodiaquine, the team still needed to demonstrate that it worked against the real infectious SARS-CoV-2 virus. With the help of a new COVID-19-focused grant from DARPA, Ingber teamed up with Matthew Frieman, Ph.D. at the University of Maryland School of Medicin and Benjamin tenOever, Ph.D. at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, both of whom already had biosafety labs set up to study infectious pathogens.

This collaboration created a drug discovery ecosystem that combines the human emulation capability of the Wyss Institute's Organ Chips with Frieman's and tenOever's expertise in the interactions between viruses and their host cells. The Frieman lab tested amodiaquine and its active metabolite, desethylamodiaquine, against native SARS-CoV-2 via high-throughput assays in cells in vitro, and confirmed that the drug inhibited viral infection.

In parallel, the tenOever lab tested amodiaquine and hydroxychloroquine against native SARS-CoV-2 in a head-to-head comparison in a small animal COVID-19 model, and saw that prophylactic treatment with amodiaquine resulted in ~70% reduction in viral load upon exposure, while hydroxychloroquine was ineffective. They also saw that amodiaquine prevented the transmission of the virus from sick to healthy animals more than 90% of the time, and that it was also effective in reducing viral load when administered after introduction of the virus. Thus, their results suggest that amodiaquine could work in both treatment and prevention modes.

"Seeing how beautifully amodiaquine inhibited infection in the Airway Chip was extremely exciting," said Frieman. "And, the fact that it seems to work both before and after exposure to SARS-CoV-2 means that it could potentially be effective in a wide variety of settings."

"This collaboration has allowed us to do things that we never would have had the resources to do otherwise, including recently setting up Organ Chips in our own lab so that we can now use them to study the interactions between infectious viruses and their hosts. While we're proud of what we've accomplished so far for COVID-19, we're also looking forward to studying additional virus-host dynamics using the Organ Chips in the hopes that we'll be able to prevent or address future pandemics," said tenOever, who is a Professor of Microbiology.

A preprint of the amodiaquine results was published online on April 15, 2020, which generated buzz in the scientific community. It eventually caught the eye of Medicines for Malaria Venture, a leading product development partnership in antimalarial drug research. These results, along with studies from several other groups, contributed to amodiaquine's inclusion in a clinical trial in collaboration with the University of Witwatersrand in South Africa and Shin Poong Pharmaceutical in South Korea last fall. A few months later, the Drugs for Neglected Diseases Initiative (DNDi) added amodiaquine to the ANTICOV clinical trial for COVID-19, which spans 19 sites in over 13 different countries in Africa. Amodiaquine is oral, extremely inexpensive, and widely available in Africa. If proven effective in these clinical trials, it could provide a badly needed weapon against COVID-19 in low-resource nations where access to vaccines and expensive new therapeutics is limited.

Preparing for the next pandemic

While the identification of amodiaquine is a major boon in fighting COVID-19, the team already has their sights set on future pandemics. In addition to SARS-CoV-2, their recent publication details their success in finding drugs that could protect against or treat several strains of influenza virus.

"Thanks to our experience using this drug development pipeline to validate amodiaquine for COVID-19, we are now applying what we learned to influenza and other pandemic-causing pathogens," said co-author Ken Carlson, Ph.D., a Lead Senior Staff Scientist who helps lead the Coronavirus Therapeutic Project Team at the Wyss Institute. "This process has given us confidence that Organ Chips are predictive of what we see in more complex living models of viral infections, and helped harness the creative cauldron of the Wyss Institute to consolidate and strengthen our therapeutic discovery engine."

In addition to influenza, the team is now exploring drugs that could be used against the new SARS-CoV-2 mutant strains, to suppress the dangerous "cytokine storm" that leads to many hospitalizations, and to relieve the symptoms of COVID-19 "long haulers."

"The pandemic has really gelled the Wyss Institute's Bioinspired Therapeutics development program, and linking up with the Frieman and tenOever labs has created a drug discovery and development pipeline that dramatically speeds up the whole process, quickly shepherding COVID-19 drugs through preclinical development to the point where they can be tested in humans. With Organ Chip technology in hand, we are now in a stronger position to confront future pandemics," said Ingber, who is also the Judah Folkman Professor of Vascular Biology at Harvard Medical School and Boston Children's Hospital, and Professor of Bioengineering at the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences.

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Additional authors of the paper include Melissa Rodas, Wuji Cao, Crystal Oh, Mercy Soong, Atiq Nurani, Seong Min Kim, Danni Zhu, Girija Goyal, Rani Powers, and Roberto Plebiani from the Wyss Institute; former Wyss Institute members Rachelle Prantil-Baun, Kambez Benam, and Sarah Gilpin; Amanda Jiang from Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School; Rasmus Moller, Daisy Hoagland, Kohei Oishi, Shu Horiuchi, Skyler Uhl, Daniel Blanco-Melo, Tristan Jordan, Benjamin Nilsson-Payant, Ilona Golynker, and Justin Frere from the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai; James Logue, Robert Haupt, Marisa McGrath, and Stuart Weston from the University of Maryland School of Medicine; Tian Zhang and Steve Gygi from Harvard Medical School;

This research was supported by the NIH (NCATS 1-UG3-HL-141797-01 and NCATS 1-UH3-HL- 141797-01), DARPA (W911NF-12-2-0036 and W911NF-16-C-0050), the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the Marc Haas Foundation, and the Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University.
MullenLowe Group announced Subbus elevation as Chief Strategy Officer for the Asia-Pacific region. He will continue to lead strategy for brands at MullenLowe Lintas Group as its Group Chief Strategy Officer.

Since joining Lowe Lintas in 2011 as National Planning Director, Subbu has led major strategic thoughts or shifts for multiple brands across the clients that the group works on in India. Most notable is his thought-leading and breakthrough Brands to Stands philosophy, methodology and frameworks that have been adopted by many of the brands that the agency steers in India. Subbu was awarded South Asia Planner of the Year by world-renowned Campaign magazine twice. He has played a champion role in MullenLowe Lintas Group, India becoming the most Effective Agency in the world twice.

Speaking about his elevation, James Fox  Global Chief Strategy Officer, MullenLowe Group said, Subbus promotion is much deserved as he is one of the finest marketing minds in the region. He is a true leader for his team and his clients, helping them achieve new heights professionally and commercially. I am very proud to have Subbu as part of the global planning council, leading MullenLowe Groups strategic charge across Asia-Pacific countries.

In the ten years that hes been at MullenLowe Lintas Group, Subbu has played a huge role in not just improving and innovating the planning product, but forging strong partnerships with colleagues at the agency, clients and academia. Not to forget his big role in putting us on the global map of effectiveness! Having worked very closely with him over the last 10 years, I have to say that he is clearly one of the top brand strategists in the world. I am extremely happy that Subbu will take his amazing brand of strategic planning beyond South Asia and into all of Asia-Pacific. said Virat Tandon  Group CEO, MullenLowe Lintas Group, India.

Excited about his new role within MullenLowe Group, Subbu said, Im honoured, humbled and fired up. Its a huge opportunity and thats very exciting. At the same time, Im also grounded on the challenges that lie ahead. And it is that trip and the constraint that also brings out the passion and fierce obsession in me, to do great culture-leading work. Ill take the rich learning that I had in my ten years at MullenLowe Lintas Group - India, an ecosystem or the fulcrum of marketing, forward.

Subbu has spent two decades plus in advertising and marketing, having worked at Wipro, Publics, Rediffusion Y&R, and Saatchi & Saatchi in the markets of India, US and UK. He has authored and won 131 awards at India Effies, APAC Effies, Global Effies, Asian Marketing Effectiveness, WARC and the globally distinguished Jay Chiat by 4As. He has also been on the jury of Jay Chiat, APAC Effies, AME, WARC, and India Effies.

A regular columnist and passionate academic, he is also a visiting faculty at top business schools IIM Ahmedabad and IIM Bangalore in India and the renowned Kellogg School of Management, Illinois and MIT Sloan, Boston in US. He addressed quite a few business and marketing global forums including SXSW in Austin, Texas.

Subbu will be based in Mumbai, India, as he takes up the Asia-Pacific charge with immediate effect.

Read more news about (internet advertising India, internet advertising, advertising India, digital advertising India, media advertising India)
GBP/ZAR Exchange Rate Jumps to Two-Week High

The Pound to South African Rand (GBP/ZAR) exchange rate struck a two-week high this week, with the pairing advancing to ZAR20.0745 as emerging market demand falter.

South African Rand (ZAR) Undermined by Economic Concerns

The South African Rand (ZAR) came under pressure this week, mostly as a result of growing concerns over the strength of South Africas economic recovery.

While South Africa appears to have weather the coronavirus pandemic much better than most other emerging economies, ZAR investors appear to be growing increasingly concerned that underlying issues could hamper the countrys economic recovery.

The local economy looks to remain stymied by factors such as stubbornly high unemployment and frequent power outages amidst national utility Eskom's ongoing woes.

Coupled with softer risk appetite in the tail end of the week, this saw the South African Rand face some significant selling pressure.

Pound (GBP) Gains Tempered by Political Uncertainty

The Pound (GBP), meanwhile, got off to a strong start against the South African Rand (ZAR) this week, with GBP exchange rates firming amid rising economic optimism in the UK.

This rally was then bolstered by the publication of the Confederation of British Industrys (CBI) latest distributive trade index, after this months survey saw retailers report their sharpest upturn in sales volumes since 2018.

However, Sterling then faltered in mid-week trade following the announcement that the UKs Electoral Commission would be launching a formal inquiry into how Boris Johnson funded the refurbishment of his Downing Street flat.

This comes at the same time that the government is facing a series of scandals over lobbying and the PMs comments about letting the bodies pile high and stoked concerns this could hurt the Conservatives in the upcoming local elections and distract the government from its plans to continue reopening the economy.

FXStreets Yohay Elam writes: Let the bodies pile high is better than having another lockdown  these insensitive comments attributed to UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson refuse to die down. Downing Street's denials were rebuffed by additional sources and they put the PM in a pickle. Having to deal with scandals may hobble the government's efforts to push the economy forward despite the impressive vaccination campaign.

GBP/ZAR Forecast: Hawkish BoE to Propel Sterling Higher?

Looking ahead to next weeks session, the main catalyst of movement in the Pound to South African Rand (GBP/ZAR) exchange rate will no doubt be the Bank of Englands (BoE) latest rate decision.

While the BoE isnt expected to may any policy changes following its May policy meeting, Sterling might be bolstered if the banks revises its growth forecasts higher, something which looks highly likely in light of recent data indicating a boom in consumer spending is bolstering the UKs economic recovery.

However, any upside in the Pound could also be capped by uncertainty ahead of the Scottish Parliamentary elections on 6 May as a strong performance by the Scottish National Party could raise concerns over a second independence referendum.

Meanwhile the primary focus for ZAR investors next week will be on South Africas latest manufacturing PMI, with the Rand potentially firming if factory activity continued to expand through April.
From: Fred Litwin - Author of On the Trail of Delusion - Jim Garrison--The Great Accuser For Immediate Release: Dateline: Ottawa , Ontario Monday, May 3, 2021

James DiEugenio makes the following allegation in his book, Destiny Betrayed: (page 294) "Before and during the trials, Garrison's witnesses were being surveilled, harassed, and physically attacked." Ok, let's go over his evidence. First up is Richard Case Nagell: (page 294) "For instance, Richard Case Nagell had a grenade thrown at him from a speeding car in New York. Nagell brought the remains of the grenade to Garrison and told him he did not think it was wise for him to testify at Shaw's trial." DiEugenio's source is page 436 of Dick Russell's book The Man Who Knew Too Much: There are several problems with this story. First, Richard Case Nagell had serious credibility issues. Over the years, he repeatedly claimed to have secret evidence regarding the assassination, and nothing ever turned up. Second, there is no corroboration for this grenade story from anywhere - no press stories, no memos, and no one associated with the Garrison investigation talked about this. Third, Jim Garrison himself has a very different story about Nagell and the Shaw trial in his book On The Trail of The Assassins. Garrison claims that Nagell arrived "shortly before the trial, willing to testify against Shaw." After talking with Nagell, Garrison decided not to use him as a witness: (page 229) "However, he was also as inflexible as ever about identifying the intelligence agency with which he had been associated - and might still be associated. I understood his concern about the non-disclosure agreement which he apparently had signed with his parent agency. But it was all too clear to me what a field day the defense lawyers would have when they discovered on cross-examination that he would not disclose his affiliation. In short order they would be coming at him just as the sharks had come at Santiago's fish. By the time they finished with Nagell, the jury would have been left with the impression of a crackpot. One such incident, one such discrediting, is all it takes to undo an entire case. I decided that with Nagell we could not take the risk." I certainly don't take anything Garrison writes as the truth. So we have two different stories from two people with credibility issues. One thing is for certain - Nagell's name did not appear on the memo listing trial witnesses that Tom Bethell leaked to the Shaw defense team. The next witness that DiEugenio mentions is Clyde Johnson: (page 294) "Even though Garrison had spirited Clyde Johnson out of town, and very few people knew where he was, the FBI's total surveillance evidently paid off. He was brutally beaten on the eve of the trial and hospitalized." One of the crazier stories to come out of the so-called Garrison investigation was that of Slidin' Clyde Johnson. In 1963, he was a fringe candidate running to be Governor of Louisiana. He claimed that he met Clay Shaw, who was using the pseudonym of Alton Bernard, in a hotel room in Baton Rouge. There were two other men in the room - Jack Ruby and Lee Harvey Oswald, and 'Alton Bernard' gave envelopes of cash to Oswald, Ruby and Johnson. It was all part of a ridiculous scheme to lure Kennedy to the south. Sound far-fetched? I tell this story in Chapter 13 of my book, On The Trail of Delusion - Jim Garrison: The Great Accuser. Jim Garrison believed the story and actually listed Clyde Johnson's meeting with Ruby, Shaw and Oswald in a list of overt acts during the jury selection of the Shaw trial. Mysteriously, the overt act vanished, when the trial actually started. There is no way Garrison was going to put Clyde Johnson on the stand. He was a drunk, and a complete fraud - he whole campaign for Governor was a con; he never actually filed the proper documents to run. Here is what really happened just before the start of the Clay Shaw trial: New Orleans Times-Picayune, January 21, 1969. Joan Mellen's book, A Farewell to Justice, also claims that "on the day before he was schedule to testify, Clyde Johnson was beaten up so badly he had to be hospitalized." Her source is the New Orleans Times=Picayune of July 24, 1969. Here is that article: The article does not corroborate the allegation. It just refers to Johnson being jailed for not paying his hotel bill. James DiEugenio references Mellen and Davy as his sources; and Davy does not have a source at all. In DiEugenio's critique of my book, On The Trail of Delusion, he finally gives us a source: "In fact, the source for this is an unpublished manuscript by a former Garrison volunteer named Jim Brown. His manuscript, titled Central Intelligence Assassination, was full of inside information on the workings of Garrisons office, including the fact that Garrison was so worried about Johnson being attacked before his appearance that he hid him outside the city at a college dormitory." So the only source for this allegation is an unpublished manuscript by a former Garrison volunteer. But that's enough for DiEugenio, Davy and Mellen. And that manuscript is nowhere to be found on the internet. I suspect it's probably in the files of the Assassination Archives and Research Center (AARC), which is currently closed. I can't wait until I can get a copy - I have a feeling there are probably many more ridiculous allegations in the manuscript as well. Conspiracy theorists ignore the good Reverend being jailed for not paying his hotel bill. And, James DiEugenio would never tell his readers what Irvin Dymond told James Kirkwood about Clyde Johnson: Kirkwood: Now Slidin' Clyde, they didn't use, just because it was too much. Dymond: Too much, that's right. Kirkwood: Was it true that right around the time of the trial, he was put in jail for non-payment of a hotel bill? Dymond: Well that's a matter of public record. And during the jury selection, I received several phone calls from Slidin' Clyde. Kirkwood: Did you! Dymond: wanting to testify for us. Kirkwood: Why would he want to do that? Dymond: . . . loaded every time he called. And -- the wee small hours of the morning, every time. Kirkwood: Did you ever try to see him in person or talk to him? Dymond: No. Didn't figure it was worthwhile. Source: Papers of James Kirkwood, Boston University. DiEugenio's next intimidated witness was Aloysius Habighorst: (page 294) "Aloysius Habighorst, the man who booked Shaw and heard him say his alias was Bertrand, was rammed by a truck the day before he testified." DiEugenio claims that Garrison had put Habighorst under protective surveillance, but that it was lifted on Mardi Gras since he would be "guarding the parade." On his way home, a "yellow truck pulled out of an alley near his house and tried to ram him. Habighorst suffered facial lacerations in his attempt to avoid the truck." Kirkwood didn't notice anything like that two days later at the Shaw trial, describing Habighorst as "natty in a snug-fitting dark suit." DiEugenio's source is Habighorst's widow. There is no contemporaneous corroboration for this story. In any event, Habighorst did testify. The next witness was Clinton witness Edwin McGehee: (page 294) "After he testified, Edwin McGehee found a prowler on his front lawn. He called the marshal, and the man was arrested. At the station, the man asked to make one phone call. The call he made was to the International Trade Mart." Now, usually the intimidation occurs before you testify, not after. In this case, the source is McGehee who told this to DiEugenio. If this is true, it hardly sounds intimidating - the prowler was arrested after a phone call. Bill Davy, in his book, Let Justice Be Done, elaborates on the phone call: "Shortly after this testimony at the Shaw trial McGehee was at home one night when he noticed someone furtively trespassing on his property. He call the Marshall who arrested the man and took him to the local police station. McGehee followed them to the station and recalled that the man was unusually dressed in that he was wearing a business suit and carried a briefcase. The arrested suspect then asked that he be allowed a phone call. Surprisingly, he called the International Trade Mart in New Orleans. McGehee could only hear one end of the conversation of course, but he remembered the person the other end of the phone loudly admonishing the caller." Does this sound convincing? Since the man was arrested, you'd think there would be something on file, no? The last witness on the intimidation list is Clinton resident Reeves Morgan: (page 294) "After he testified, Reeves Morgan had the windows shot out of his truck." DiEugenio's source is Bill Davy who interviewed Morgan: (page 301) "Morgan also said that not long after his appearance at the Shaw trial, someone blew out the windows of his truck with a shotgun. Morgan was not in the truck at the time." So, Morgan is yet another witness intimidated after his testimony. And, he wasn't even in the truck. DiEugenio has discussed five witnesses; three of whom testified at Shaw's trial (Habighorst, McGehee, and Morgan) and two of whom were so bat-shit crazy that Garrison could not call them to the stand (Johnson and Nagell). But the real evidence of harassment comes from documents that cannot be found. Here is a quote from DiEugenio's Destiny Betrayed: (page 294) "What makes all this violent witness intimidation more startling is what Robert Tanenbaum stated to the author in an interview for Probe Magazine. He said that he had seen a set of documents that originated in the office of Richard Helms. They revealed that the CIA was monitoring and harassing Garrison's witnesses. As Tanenbaum stated it, he had a negative view of Garrison up until the time he became Deputy Counsel of the House Select Committee on Assassinations. Then he read 'all this material that had come out of Helm's office, that in what what Garrison had said was true. They were harassing his witnesses, they were intimidating his witnesses. The documents exist. Where they are now, God only knows.'" Once again, the evidence has disappeared. Sound familiar? This post discusses other evidence that DiEugenio cites that has disappeared - the sewer system map in the possession of Sergio Arcacha Smith, the tapes of conspirators held by Richard Case Nagell, and never-before-seen pictures of Dealey Plaza held by Bernardo de Torres. And this post discusses a nonexistent map of Dealey Plaza found on the desk of David Ferrie. The only person intimidating and harassing witnesses was Jim Garrison. He abused the grand jury system to force witnesses to talk; he harassed anti-Castro Cubans in New Orleans like Carlos Quiroga and Carlos Bringuier (whose wife had a miscarriage because she was worried her husband was going to be arrested); he bribed witnesses; and he had David Ferrie not only under surveillance, but had informants infiltrate his life. An upcoming blog post will look at how Garrison misused the grand jury system. Last but not least, was Garrison's persecution of Clay Shaw not an horrific example of harassment?


WASHINGTON - The hour between 5:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. used to be Chan Tei DuRant's least favorite hour of the day.

Within minutes of leaving her D.C. office, she would be in bumper-to-bumper traffic, inching along the interstate as she stared at the clock, picturing her 9-year-old daughter alone on the playground with the only teacher who hadn't gone home for the day. By the time she arrived at her daughter's school, 25 miles away, DuRant, a single mom, was frustrated and exhausted. She would already be dreading the frenzied sequence of tasks that awaited them: homework, dinner, shower, lay out tomorrow's clothes, brush teeth, bed.

Then, wake up and repeat.

When her office started working remotely last March, DuRant said, she immediately noticed changes in her body: Her shoulders softened and she started sleeping more deeply. She had time to dance around the living room with her daughter on a Tuesday and work out six days a week.

DuRant, who works in government communications, has been eagerly awaiting an announcement from her employer: Once everyone in her office has been vaccinated, she wants to know if she will be expected to return.

Only 7% of Americans worked remotely before the pandemic. As of January, over half of all American workers were logging in to their jobs from home. Disproportionately White and affluent, members of the remote labor force have settled into their new routines, investing in home printers and office chairs, using their commute time to do something for themselves: extra sleep, a workout routine, a walk around the block. As more Americans get vaccinated, employers are reevaluating their policies, asking themselves: If our employees are just as productive at home - and we can save money on office space - why not allow them to choose where they work?

While this kind of flexibility would be overwhelmingly popular, especially with parents, experts warn it could do even more harm to working women, millions of whom have left the workforce during the pandemic. More men than women worked from home before the pandemic, with 36% of men conducting most of their work remotely, compared to 23% of women, according to a 2014 survey from the remote work consulting firm Flex+Strategy Group. This is likely because more men are offered flexibility, said Jennifer Glass, a professor of sociology who specializes in work and families at the University of Texas at Austin. When men and women are offered flexibility in equal measure, Glass said, mothers are more likely to choose to work from home than fathers or employees without children.

If more women work remotely, even for a few days each week, experts warn, the practice could be stigmatized as an accommodation for mothers, as it was at many companies before the pandemic. Men also could end up with more professional opportunities, benefiting from serendipitous water cooler conversations and face-time with colleagues and management. The solution, experts say, is to make sure remote work policies are utilized equally across genders - but that could be difficult to enforce.

Going forward, companies will deploy a host of different remote-work policies, said Cali Yost, founder and chief executive of Flex+Strategy Group. Some companies, like Twitter and Square, announced that all employees will be eligible for permanent remote work, with Twitter announcing this shift just a few months into the pandemic. Yost expects most companies will opt for a less extreme "hybrid" model, allowing employees to work from home for a few days each week.

DuRant thinks these benefits would come with professional consequences. Even with the changes to work culture caused by the pandemic, she said, it's hard to imagine she could work from home and still score a major promotion, She isn't too concerned. Recently, she has reevaluated her priorities: Quality of life is more important than climbing the career ladder, she has decided.

"I would be happy never going back into the office again," she said. "I don't ever want to have to give this up."

The concept of flexible work became popular in the early 1990s as a corporate retention strategy for working mothers, Yost said. With new mothers leaving the workforce, several major think tanks began heralding the benefits of flexible work policies as a way to slow the exodus. There was a recognition, she said, that "the traditional model of work did not align with the reality of parents' lives, but mostly women's lives."

But these policies failed to fundamentally change the underlying culture at the companies that adopted them, Yost said, instead contributing to the idea of remote work as a special accommodation for women who couldn't handle the simultaneous demands of work and family. The vast majority of people continued to work out of the office full-time. People who took advantage of the policies - in many cases, mothers - were often seen as less committed to their jobs.

At many companies, these stereotypes stuck around until the pandemic. A single mom and human resources director at a large company in New York City, Loren Arcaria used to commute an hour and a half each way every day from her home in Long Island. When she asked to work from home one day a week in 2015, she said, her manager quickly agreed.

"I was always running, running, running with no time to breathe," said Arcaria, who has two sons, now ages 10 and 12. It was a relief, she said, to have permission to work from home on Fridays.

Then the "left-handed comments" began. While no one directly criticized her from working from home, Arcaria said, colleagues, managers and people in executive leadership regularly implied that she was falling short of her responsibilities. While no one directly told Arcaria that her Fridays at home had hurt her career prospects, she felt certain the new accommodations were holding her back.

"It was statements like, 'Well, I know you have the kids,' and 'I know it's hard as a mom.'"

Arcaria quit that job in 2017, accepting a similar position at a company with offices 15 minutes from her home. "I said to myself, you know what, I am not going anywhere in this company. I am not viewed in the way I want to be viewed," she said.

"I think they genuinely wanted to support women but there was a price to pay for flexibility," Arcaria said.

Arcaria's former employer did not respond to a request for comment.

Before the pandemic, remote work policies were a way for a company to "virtue signal," Glass said. She suspects men were granted flexibility more often than women because companies didn't actually want their employees to use the benefits. They offered them to "look good," she said.

The pandemic has obliterated all the stereotypes around working from home. With entire companies working remotely - mothers, fathers, people without children - the practice has become "reason neutral," Yost said. Remote work is also less stigmatized now, she added, because companies have seen how productive employees can be at home.

"Covid became the great equalizer," said Jeanette Prochazka, who has a 10-year-old daughter and is general counsel at Arcaria's former company. Once offices reopen, she worries that employees who choose to return will be treated like "heroes."

"That's my fear," she said. Even if you only work remotely a few days each week, "they'll think you must be doing your laundry if you stay home."

It can be hard to quantify the professional benefits you get from being physically present in an office, said Sian Beilock, the president of Barnard College who has written about gender and remote work for The Washington Post: What is lost when you don't run into colleagues on the elevator, or when you can't get to know someone over lunch? During the pandemic, those losses presented less of a problem because everyone was in the same position, Beilock said. But if more men come into the office than women, she added, they will benefit from the deals and relationships that happen organically when colleagues come together.

Whatever companies say, managers are more likely to give opportunities to someone they know well, rather than someone "who has stellar performance reviews but you don't have a basis of trust with," Glass said - and it's hard to build trust over Zoom.

There could also be consequences at home. When they work remotely, moms end up spending significantly more time on housework and child care than dads do, according to a Yale study published in July 2020, based on data conducted before the pandemic. Women tend to face more disruptions at home than their male partners, said Emma Zang, a professor of sociology at Yale and a co-author of the study. The same dynamic played out in many U.S. homes throughout the pandemic: The man went into his home office and closed the door. The woman set up shop at the kitchen table, available for anything the kids might need.

Isaura Carreno never got to potty train her 7-year-old. She helped for a few days one weekend, she said, but his babysitter and grandmother handled the rest. A project coordinator at a consulting firm in New York City, she had to be in the office every day, allotting 90 minutes for her commute each way from her home in White Plains, N.Y.

With her second child, it was different. The potty training happened in the pandemic - and she got to be there every step of the way.

"I can wholeheartedly say, 'I did that,'" Carreno said. "I was actually the one who potty-trained my 3-year-old."

The pandemic allowed Carreno to build deeper relationships with her kids, she said. She taught her 3-year-old how to differentiate between colors and how to trace his name. Her 7-year-old started opening up to her about problems with friends and school. While Carreno's employer hasn't said anything official about their remote-work policy, she said, she is hopeful that she will be able to stay at home for good.

Before the pandemic, Carreno was able to strike a balance between work and family, she said - but she had to make sacrifices, missing milestones as her kids grew up. If she can do her job just as effectively from home, without having to make those compromises, she said, she should be able to.

Arcaria worked remotely for three days each week during the coronavirus pandemic. During that time, she said, she has been able to integrate her home life with her work. Her two sons used to have no idea what she did every day, she said. Now they know the names of her co-workers. When she used to call her manager at 2:30 p.m. each afternoon, she said, her younger son would sometimes ask, "How's Pete?"

Companies should absolutely give parents the option to work from home, said Beilock, the Barnard president who has written about the gendered consequences of remote work. "I'm not advocating for taking the decision out of individual hands," she said. Families should be able to decide what's best for them.

The onus is on the company to establish "guardrails," Beilock said. Employers need to anticipate the gendered consequences that could arise from allowing employees to permanently work from home, she said - and monitor how often men and women take advantage of the benefit. They could also conduct a self-study, she said, surveying employees to gauge what professional opportunities might be lost when they work from home, then figure out some way to make up for those losses. If remote workers lose out on face-time with the boss, for example, schedule a one-on-one Zoom session each week, she said.

Whatever the company's policy on remote work, it must be enforced consistently across divisions, Yost said. Before the pandemic, work-from-home policies were often implemented "at random," with certain managers more comfortable with remote work than others and exceptions made for particular employees. In the future, Yost said, "it needs to be positioned upfront: This is the way we all work." That message should come from executive leadership, she said, and be reinforced through lower-level managers, who should set an example by working remotely themselves.

"Then all of a sudden, women are just part of a whole." They won't be "singled out" for choosing to work from home, Yost said.

In 2015, Arcaria was one of the first employees at her company to work part-time from home. After two years of offhand comments, implying that she couldn't do her job as effectively as her colleagues because she was a mom, she started to doubt herself, she said: Maybe she wasn't that good at her job. Maybe she did spend too much time at home.

The pandemic changed everything, Arcaria said. If her new employer doesn't end up allowing everyone to work from home, at least part-time, she plans to ask for more flexibility. A year ago, she would have been hesitant to make that request, she said, afraid of the stigma she experienced at her old job. Not anymore, she said.

"We've proven to the world that we can do our jobs effectively from home."

- - -

This story first appeared in The Washington Post's The Lily publication.
A year after the pandemic plunged auto sales to historic lows last April, sales of Toyotas San Antonio-built pickups continued to surge as the car market bounces back to pre-pandemic form.

Toyota dealers sold 24,448 midsize Tacoma pickups last month, a 72 percent increase from a year ago. And last months sales were 20 percent higher than in April 2019  a sign that sales have largely overcome the pandemic-driven downturn.

The robust sales pace is the story for the industry right now, as strong retail demand continues, said Charlie Chesbrough, a senior economist with Cox Automotive. There is little reason to expect buyer interest to wane anytime soon, given recent economic growth rate expectations and improvements to consumer sentiment.

Toyotas San Antonio plant employs 3,000 workers, while Toyota suppliers account for an additional 4,000 workers in the city.

On ExpressNews.com: Toyotas sales up in March despite computer chip shortage

Keeping enough inventory on hand has been a challenge for Toyota and other automakers, however.

With a global shortage of computer chips continuing, automakers have cut production of some vehicles and prioritized chips for their best-selling models. In Toyotas case, those include the Tacoma.

BOB OWEN, Staff / San Antonio Express-News

The shortage of chips combined with backlogged ports and production disruptions related to COVID-19 and Februarys winter storm have collectively thrown off vehicle supply chains in recent months, according to Cox Automotive.

Inventory is a huge problem in the vehicle market  a lingering result of the COVID-19 shock last year, Chesbrough said.

As Toyota has prioritized supply for the Tacoma, sales of the full-size Tundra have lagged this year.

Buyers drove just over 7,500 Tundras off dealer lots last month, which was a 5 percent increase from a year ago. But those sales were down more than 15 percent when compared with April 2019, before the pandemic crimped vehicle sales.

On ExpressNews.com: Semiconductor shortage still forcing Toyota to cut Tundra production in San Antonio

Through the first four months of this year, Toyota dealers have sold more than 117,000 Tundra and Tacoma trucks  a 4.5 percent uptick from the first four months of 2019.

Toyota has continued to outperform the broader U.S. auto industry in 2021. Last month, total U.S. auto sales jumped just less than 90 percent from a year earlier. Toyota, meanwhile, experienced a 183 percent sales boost from a year ago.

Analysts with Cox Automotive project total U.S. vehicle sales to reach 16.5 million this year, compared with 14.5 million in 2020.

diego.mendoza-moyers@express-news.net
New York-based Conduit Global said it plans to lay off 245 San Antonio employees and close its call center at 6010 Exchange Parkway by June 25.

An unforeseen loss of business led to the decision to cut its entire San Antonio workforce, said Tina Hawk, Conduits vice president of human resources.

The company described its situation in an April 26 letter to the Texas Workforce Commission. Under state law, employers must give 60 days notice of mass layoffs.

The closure and the layoffs are expected to be permanent, Conduit CEO Robert Bryan said in the letter to the TWC.

Nobody answered a call made Monday morning to the call center. Employees are currently working from home because of the coronavirus pandemic, according to a telephone recording.

On ExpressNews.com: Plus One Robotics raised $33M from investors

The company will work with the Texas Workforce Commission to connect employees to the services available to them, Hawk said.

The call center, which is near Ingram Park Mall and provides customer support to telecommunications companies, has had an uneven run in San Antonio.

In 2014, the San Antonio Express-News reported that the company laid off 225 people. At the time, the call center had 470 employees. And in 2018, Conduit announced an expansion and plans to hire more than 200 people.

The company has five other U.S. locations and seven international sites. Conduit employees are not represented by a union.

The company is also laying off 173 people at its facility near Greensboro, N.C.

Conduit is owned by kgb USA Inc. of Bethlehem, Pa.

Brandon Lingle writes for the Express-News through Report for America, a national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms. ReportforAmerica.org. brandon.lingle@express-news.net
For seven straight weeks, coronavirus transmission in San Antonio has remained stable as vaccination rates have climbed.

The positivity rate, or percentage of tests that come back positive for the virus, has hovered near 2 percent since late March. On Monday, it was 2.6 percent, an increase of 0.7 percentage points from the previous week but well below the 5 percent threshold health officials established to indicate a manageable level of community transmission.

In the past week, the infection rate also rose slightly, to 13.1 cases per 100,000 people, but that measure has also dropped dramatically over the past few months. At the height of the winter spike in infections, it exceeded 100.

To date, 901,876 residents of Bexar County  more than 58 percent of the population  have received at least one shot of a COVID vaccine and 623,245, or 40 percent, are fully vaccinated, officials said at the city-county coronavirus briefing.

On ExpressNews.com: More than half of Bexar County residents have received at least one COVID-19 vaccine dose

The citys vaccination hub at the Alamodome is now administering shots on most days without an appointment, Mayor Ron Nirenberg said. Anyone age 16 or older can walk in and get inoculated Tuesdays through Saturdays.

Please get vaccinated to help us end this pandemic, he said.

Hospitalizations for COVID-19 have improved since last week, when they climbed to 270. On Monday, 220 patients were receiving treatment across the city, including 68 who were critically ill, 44 who needed ventilator support and 18 who had been admitted in the past day.

San Antonio reported 259 new cases Monday, in addition to 279 from Saturday and 172 from Sunday. A backlog of 351 cases that were recorded at least two weeks ago pushed the cumulative number of coronavirus infections for Bexar County to 218,547.

Over the past seven days, the average for new cases was 265, compared to 246 a week ago.

On ExpressNews.com: Can removing abdominal fat reverse Type 2 diabetes? San Antonio researchers are testing a new surgery to find out.

Although transmission is low, Nirenberg said the new cases are a reminder that the virus is still circulating in the community and that health precautions are still needed.

The virus continues to surface in congregant settings, Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff said, including at the Bexar County Jail. He said the facility now has a cluster of 16 infections, even with masking and testing protocols in place.

You still have to be careful, he said. Were finding that out at the jail.

No new COVID deaths were reported Monday. The local death toll from the pandemic stands at 3,372, with the addition of 18 backlogged deaths that occurred between Nov. 10 and April 13.

lcaruba@express-news.net
With every new visit to the Hill Country, the states wines get more impressive. Winemakers are serious and invested, crafting delicious wines with a sense of place. The tasting-room experiences strike a careful balance between informative and just plain fun. Texas wine has arrived  and its right here in our backyard.

With vaccination rates going up and that glimmer of light at the end of the pandemic tunnel becoming brighter, those looking for an adventure close to home this summer should consider the Hill Country. The wine region is large, but the 55-mile stretch of U.S. 290 between Dripping Springs and Fredericksburg is where the action is at.

Fredericksburg is often considered the anchor of the Hill Country. Its Main Street is lined with tasting rooms and souvenir shops  its touristy, its bustling, its good fun. But dont sleep on other towns, especially Johnson City, which has added a new coffee shop and a wine bar. It also offers plenty of antiques and gallery-hopping opportunities, as well as the kid-friendly Science Mill museum. To the west, Hye is more rural and has a high concentration of wineries. Stonewalls Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park  where you can visit the presidents boyhood home, the Texas White House and his final resting place  provides a nice break from wine tasting.

Due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, many wineries are stricter about reservations, which were always recommended anyway during peak times. Make sure to look up the winerys policy before your visit, as some are still not accepting walk-ins.

Ab Astris Winery

Ab Astris Winery is one of the newest tasting rooms on the scene. The family started making wine in 2015 but didnt open to the public until August 2018, clearing a small patch for the property in the middle of expansive land that looks untouched for miles. Ab Astris idyllic ambiance and striking tasting room make it somewhat of an influencers playground, yet the wines also happen to be very good.

The 12-acre vineyard was recently planted and wont produce fruit for another couple years, with the exception of the Clairette that goes into an estate white and sparkling wine. In the meantime, Ab Astris sources grapes from the High Plains, allying French, Italian and Spanish varieties. The whites and rose are bright and refreshing, the reds robust and fruit-forward.

A flight of five wines is $20, and the tasting fee is waived with the purchase of three bottles. Wines by the glass are $13 for whites and roses, and $15 for reds. Walk-ins are welcome; reservations are recommended on Saturdays and required for groups of six or more. 320 Klein, Stonewall, 830-644-8369; abastriswinery.com

Becker Vineyards

Richard and the late Bunny Becker made strides to further the quality of Texas wines before the region was a big tourist destination.

The winery, founded in 1992, still has its charm, located on 300 acres near Stonewall; the large property allows for leisurely walks among the 50 acres of vines. Ample outside seating to soak up the view is also a draw. Tastings progress at a nice pace and servers are ready with anecdotes about each wine. Becker has a couple of spaces on-site for private tastings and a library of wines that go back 20 years, as well as a tasting room on Main Street in Fredericksburg.

At the winery, reservations are required for tastings, which cost $30. Theres a choice between a white wine flight, red wine flight, or mixed flight. Otherwise, wines are $15 by the glass, walk-ins accepted. 464 Becker Farms Road, Fredericksburg (estate winery), 830-644-2681; beckervineyards.com

Lewis Wines

Lewis Wines added a new tasting room and pavilion to its property in 2018, bringing a hospitality component to its winemaking operation, which was founded in 2010 by Doug Lewis and Duncan McNabb.

Lewis has 8 acres planted at its Johnson City vineyard and uses fruit from the Hill Country and the High Plains. The wines are elegant and terroir-driven, and delight in various ways. A recent flight included two different roses to compare side by side, an older vintage blending Spanish and Portuguese varieties, and a Mourvedre  typically a burly red  made in a light, refreshing Beaujolais style.

Tastings are by reservation only and cost $25 for four wines, plus a bonus wine of whatever the staff may have open (the tasting is free with the purchase of two bottles). You can also choose to reserve a picnic table for $10, sans tasting, and order by the glass or by the bottle  outside food welcome. Lewis offers simple snacks alongside the wine tastings: potato chips ($2), sourdough bread from JoJu Bakery ($6-$10) and a side of Texas olive oil ($3). 3209 U.S. 290, 512-987-0660; lewiswines.com

Lost Draw Cellars

Lost Draw Cellars tasting room is located just off the main drag in downtown Fredericksburg. It opened in 2014, but the team has been making wine in Texas since 2005 and now manages a total of 300 acres of vineyards. Owner Andy Timmons lives in the High Plains, where Lost Draws grapes are from, and the winemaking is done at the Fredericksburg facility.

The tasting room has a medium-size patio thats just as much of a hangout for local regulars as it is for tourists. Servers are armed with useful information for each wine, with plenty more in reserve when asked extra questions. Lost Draws wines are bold, aromatic and spicy  and a good mix, from Albarino and Roussanne to Zinfandel and Syrah.

Tastings are $20 via reservation only (or $25 to be seated) and include five wines, with some offbeat bonus pours, like a fun Counoise rose or Pinot Meunier sparkling rose. A wine and cheese tasting costs $35. There are some food items on the menu, such as a generous charcuterie board for $30. A small adjoining shop sells wine bottles, gourmet foods and merchandise. 113 E. Park St., Fredericksburg, 830-992-3251; lostdrawcellars.com

Southold Farm + Cellar

Southold Farm + Cellar, on a hill 18 miles east of Fredericksburg, has undeniably the best panoramic view of any winery in the Hill Country. The stunning landscape  and the porch swings to admire it from  are just a cherry on top of Southolds fantastic wines.

Owners Regan and Carey Meador started the winery on New Yorks Long Island but moved it to Texas in 2017. While they wait on their young estate plantings, they source grapes mostly from Robert Clays vineyard in the Hill Country, making bright, juicy wines from more than a dozen different varieties.

Reservations are required at the winery. A tasting with four wines is $25; $40 with a snack spread. The new on-site restaurant, The Kitchen, is open Fridays and Saturdays by reservation only. 30 Minor Threat Lane, Fredericksburg, 512-829-1650; southoldfarmandcellar.com

Westcave Cellars Winery & Brewery

Hidden away on a road off U.S. 290, Westcave Cellars has a quiet, serene atmosphere. Theres ample outside space nestled between the trees, with patio tables and a requisite swing.

Owners Allan and Margaret Fetty started Westcave in 2011 but later sold their 9-acre vineyard in Dripping Springs. They opened the current location in Johnson City in December 2019. The white wines, such as Viognier and Chenin Blanc, and the Cabernet Franc-based rose are particularly successful. Westcave also makes beer on-site from Cascade hops grown by Patrick Vandewilt at his nearby Adelsverein Brewings hop farm in Sisterdale.

Walk-ins are accepted at Westcave and visitors can choose between three tasting options: $20 for a red and white variety tasting, $25 for reds only (six wines each), and a four-beer tasting for $20. 683 Ranch Road 1320, Johnson City, 512-431-1403; westcavecellars.com

William Chris Vineyards

William Chris Vineyards was founded in 2008 by Chris Brundrett and Bill Blackmon, a pioneer of Texas wine whos been growing grapes in the state since the 1970s. Perhaps the most vocal proponents of Texas wine produced with 100 percent Texas grapes, the duo has pushed quality forward and crafted their own unique style, with wines that are vibrant and elegant, structured yet crushable at the same time.

Brundrett and Blackmon bought and renovated an old 1900s farmhouse as the original Hye tasting room and have since expanded, with a large pavilion, a striking member-only tasting room and a five-bedroom guesthouse, Hye-way Haus ($500 a night).

Reservations are required for tastings ($20), food and wine pairings ($40), library wine experiences ($75) and picnic lunches ($20). Walk-ins are accepted for consumption by the glass and by the bottle, for seating in the pavilion or on the grass, surrounded by the estate vines. 10352 U.S. 290, Hye, 830-998-7654; williamchriswines.com

Emma + Ollie

Emma + Ollie brings Southern hospitality and locally sourced food to a charming old bungalow in Fredericksburg. Customers entering the restaurant and bakery are greeted by a pastry case filled with treats from Rebecca Rather, former head pastry chef at Houston staples Tonys, Grotto and La Griglia. Sit outside on the back patio or small front porch, or inside the small dining room. The burger with pimento cheese melted onto a 44 Farms patty, candied bacon, and sweet and spicy pickles is a decadent must-order. You can buy the pimento and other goodies from the small shop by the entrance. 607 S. Washington St., Fredericksburg, 830-383-1013; emmaolliefbg.com

Hye Market

Located on one side of an old-timey but still functioning post office, the sandwiches are the draw at this deli  specifically the whatever sandwich, which stuffs soft focaccia bread with sopressata, mortadella, Dutchmans ham, asiago cheese, sundried tomato aioli and Vogel Orchards peach butter chipotle sauce (which you can and should buy a bottle of to-go). Hye Market was originally established in 1886 as a general store and post office, and despite the flashy new tasting rooms popping up in the area, its a piece of history that has endured. 10261 U.S. 290 W., Hye, 830-868-2300; hyemarket.com

Johnson City Coffee Co.

A great cup of coffee to start your morning or between wine tastings is now in reach in the Hill Country. Johnson City Coffee Co. opened its industrial barnlike space in May 2020; for now, the team is operating on the patio, to-go and via drive-thru only because of the pandemic. The coffee shop makes its brews from Austins Greater Good beans and also sells a variety of sweet and savory pastries, such as a fiery jalapeno-ham-cheddar roll, and other food items, including sandwiches and quiche. 108 W. Main, Johnson City, 830-256-8360; johnsoncitycoffeeco.com

Ottos

Ottos in Fredericksburg is a wonderful dining room meshing refined German cuisine and a merry wine-country atmosphere. The duck schnitzel with spaetzle and the flammkuchen, a thin-crust pie with creme fraiche, gravlax, braised onions and horseradish, are must-try dishes celebrating the Hill Countrys Germanic roots. The wine list leads with local Texas producers and also features a solid selection of German, Austrian and Alsatian wines. 316 E. Austin St., Fredericksburg, 830-307-3336; ottosfbg.com

The Parlour

Southold Farm + Cellar opened The Parlour in an old barbershop in October 2019. The tiny Johnson City wine bar is another outpost for the winery to pour its juice, serving a rotating selection of six different Southold current releases and three guest wines from other regions, from California to France. The team also offers an impressive array of food options, considering how little space they have. The cheese and charcuterie plate includes three cheeses (like goat from the local Pure Luck), two cured meats, dried fruit and nuts. The chicken liver pate is a highlight, served with JoJu Bakery sourdough bread, which is also used to spread the burrata with black pepper honey and sumac pecans. 109 N. Nugent Ave., Johnson City; theparlourjctx.com

Hoffman Haus

Hoffman Haus is so cozy and charming, between-tasting naps will seem even more appealing than they already are. The 5-acre Fredericksburg property has nine rooms, eight suites and four guesthouses that sleep two to seven people. The vibe straddles elegance with country chic  some rooms have delicate features and pastel colors, while others boast heavy wood and distressed leather upholstery. Hoffman Haus feels luxurious and relaxing while only a block away from Main Street. 608 E. Creek St., Fredericksburg, 830-997-6739; hoffmanhaus.com

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Emma Baltergrew up in Paris, France, where she got an early taste for good food and wine. She studied English Literature at Newcastle University in the U.K. and got her start in journalism as the lifestyle editor of the student newspaper. She moved to the U.S. in 2012, and spent six years on staff at Wine Spectator magazine, first as a tasting coordinator, then as an editor. She has also contributed to Conde Nast Traveler, Food & Wine, Eater, PureWow, Chowhound and VinePair, among others. Balter joined the Houston Chronicle in March 2020 as a reporter for Preview, where she covers entertainment, food and drink. She lives in Montrose with her cat, Chenin. She can be reached by email at Emma.Balter@chron.com or by Twitter: @EmmaBalter

Design by Julie Takahashi. She is the features digital manager at the Houston Chronicle. She can be reached by email at julie.takahashi@chron.com or by Twitter: @Julie_Takahashi
Seats are empty at a public vaccination center in Gwangju, Monday, following the health authorities' earlier decision to halt temporarily giving first shots of the Pfizer anti-COVID-19 vaccine in order to carry out inoculations for those scheduled for second shots. Yonhap



By Lee Hyo-jin



The government's vaccination plan is hitting a snag due to an imbalance between supply and demand, adding uncertainty to its goal of fully vaccinating 12 million people in the first half of the year.



According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA), around 3.39 million people have received at least one dose of a vaccine as of Sunday, among which 236,468 have been fully vaccinated with two.



But rising demand for second shots of the two-dose regimen vaccines is causing a supply-demand imbalance, leading to the temporary suspension of initial shots.



The health authorities announced Friday that they would stop giving first shots of the Pfizer vaccine until mid-May, in order to inoculate those scheduled for their second doses.



Accordingly, the KDCA requested local governments to refrain from making new appointments for first shots. Since its April 1 rollout, the Pfizer vaccine is currently being administered to the elderly population aged over 75.



As the vaccine requires a three-week interval between the two doses, many of the elderly who received their initial shots have their second ones scheduled for May.



But of the total 2.11 million doses obtained so far, only 529,000 remain as of Monday, according to the KDCA.






Cooking is how Jiraporn Namarsa meditates.

She doesnt sit or close her eyes or focus on breathing. Instead, Namarsa creates intricate desserts that require focus, time and artistry. These colorful desserts include Thong Yip (egg yolk-shaped flowers) and Luk Chup (mung bean paste candies). Cooking tethers her to Thailand, the land of her birth, and to Buddhism, which calms and humbles her.

Sharing her faith, food and culture with others has been Namarsas passion since moving to the United States 31 years ago. She is selfless with her time, energy and skill.

Each morning, the 72-year-old prepares breakfast and lunch, which she delivers to Buddhist monks in the community. A tenet of her faith is to offer food to the monks to observe their sacrifice for others.

I feel good that I can do many things for other people, Namarsa said. And educate some people about the culture and my ability to teach at the same time.

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Preparing various dishes has soothed Namarsas soul since she was 9. Her parents taught her the culinary arts at their home in Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, and it wasnt long before she was preparing meals for the family.

About the author A 22-year veteran of the Air Force, Vincent T. Davis embarked on a second career as a journalist and found his calling. Observing and listening across San Antonio, he finds intriguing tales to tell about everyday people. He shares his stories with Express-News subscribers every Monday morning. See More Collapse

Namarsa grew up with three brothers and a sister who still live in Thailand. She was 16 when she met her husband, Somchai, in high school.

After graduating, Namarsa went on to teach biology in Thailand for 20 years. Her husband became a mechanical engineer. In 1990, the next chapter of her life moved her more than 8,000 miles away. The family, including her 13-year-old daughter, Somjira, moved to Clarksville, Tenn., when her husband helped open a tile-making factory. Eight years later, they moved to Wisconsin, where Namarsa had to drive three hours to a temple in Chicago.

Nowadays, Namarsa shares her recipes at Thai Topaz, owned by her son-in-law David Thanairongroj, in Castle Hills. With its wood carvings at the entrance and a tuk-tuk  a three-wheeled vehicle used in Thailand  the restaurant reminds Namarsa of her homeland.

Namarsa has spent time at the restaurant showing customers how she creates decorative desserts with a small paring knife. One specialty is tiny, fruit-shaped mung bean desserts. Using steamed mung beans, she molds the paste into miniature fruits that resemble oranges, cherries and mangoes. Food coloring makes the shiny fruit look like real produce.

The family also has hosted cultural events, such as Songkran, a water festival celebrating the start of the Thai New Year in April.

Thanairongroj, 46, has learned from his mother-in-law and shares her passion for passing on Thai customs. Theyve hosted students and held cooking classes at the restaurant, donating the proceeds to a temple.

We want to bring people our traditions and not just food, Thanairongroj said.

Namarsas Thai cooking classes were also featured as part of Michelle Newmans cuisine course and International Flavors of San Antonio program at the Raindrop Turkish House.

On ExpressNews.com: Bergundy Woods is on the rise as home-grown fashionista, style influencer and champion of unsung fashion heroes

Last September, retired teacher Sue Scruggs, 70, wanted to learn the Thai language. She emailed Namarsas son-in-law for help. After a few emails back and forth, Scruggs received good news  the restaurateur would put her in touch with his mother-in-law.

Namarsa started weekly lessons with Scruggs, teaching her the tones and alphabet of the language. Namarsa also shared how to prepare fruit and vegetable carvings, as well as her positive outlook on life.

Scruggs has joined Namarsa and her friends for service at a local temple, and shes taken part in the practice of everyone placing food in a large monk bowl for the giving of alms.

Shes the kind of teacher I would have liked to teach with, Scruggs said. Its more than learning words  its the excitement and understanding another culture. The Thai way is a way of compassion. It took me one day of being with her that I wanted to be a better person.

On ExpressNews.com: San Antonio Peace Corps volunteer recalls experience in Dominican Republic

Namarsa has kept her ties to Thailand, visiting once or twice each year and crocheting during the 12-hour flights. Last year, the pandemic prevented her from her annual visit, and Namarsas mother died March 4 at the age of 106. Unable to be with her family, she remembered her mom at a traditional Thai funeral ceremony at a local temple.

She misses her mother, who created some of the first food carvings she ever saw. With just one child, Namarsa was able to invest hours into the meditative, culinary art form, unlike her mother, whose focus was on raising five children. And the memory of her mother lives on in the lessons Namarsa teaches family and friends.

On Fridays, early in the morning, Namarsa takes 10 to 15 minutes to prepare a light breakfast and gather a handmade flower arrangement that she delivers to the monks. She buys flowers with donations from the Thai community. After she arrives, she places the floral piece before a statue of Buddha. Namarsa is one of many who support the monks.

Each week, Namarsas cycle of compassion continues. Theres treasured time with her family, tutoring Scruggs, creating culinary masterpieces and finding inner peace through service to others.

No matter who you are, you can be calm and peaceful, Namarsa said, and be happy.

Namarsa said her family is always ready to share their Thailand experiences with residents. For more information about the familys Thai lessons, call 210-290-9833 or email thaitopaz2@gmail.com.

vtdavis@express-news.net
21 Pro Video

A 25-year-old driver was killed Saturday night when he crashed into oncoming traffic while speeding away from police, officials said.

Jose Ascencion Astrain Jr. was driving north on West Avenue around 10:50 p.m. when officers in an unmarked patrol car tried to stop him for an unspecified traffic violation, according to San Antonio police.
At Colonial Hills United Methodist Church, it seemed like any other Sunday morning.

Masked church-goers took prepackaged communion wafers from a bin outside the worship center nestled on the North Side. They walked through wide-open doors  letting in the warm morning breeze  and settled in pews, keeping a safe distance from their fellow congregants.

Among them was San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg  just another man there with his wife, son and other family members for a Sunday service. He bowed his head in prayer, clapped along with the church band and took communion.

But theres a shift to the energy in the air, and something has changed. Saturday night, Nirenberg easily won reelection for a third term in office.

At the mere mention of his name by the Rev. Polly Angle at the top of the service, the congregation burst into applause.

Please know that we are in prayer with you as you move into the next season of your service to the beautiful city of San Antonio, Angle told Nirenberg.

After the service ended and church-goers filed out of their pews, Nirenberg hugged church leaders and bumped fists and elbows with his fellow congregants offering their congratulations.

The morning after Nirenberg handily won a third term, he was characteristically reserved. But there was also an easy confidence that allies and peers said the mayor gained over the past year as he was thrust into dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic and its fallout.

I wasnt surprised by it, Nirenberg said of Saturdays result. He received 62 percent of the nearly 150,000 votes cast in the race. His chief challenger, Greg Brockhouse, a former city councilman who nearly took the mayors seat from Nirenberg two years ago, garnered only 31 percent.

But Nirenberg will admit: He felt relief when the results came in.

Kin Man Hui, San Antonio Express-News / Staff photographer

Unlike two years ago, when Nirenberg barely escaped a runoff with Brockhouse, San Antonio voters gave the mayor a clear mandate, allies said  a product of how he has guided the city during the pandemic and how hes executed his agenda in the meantime.

Theres almost nothing any opponent could have done, I think, because he acquitted himself so well, former Mayor Henry Cisneros said. The public rewarded him with strong support.

A tough road still lies ahead. Voters have tasked Nirenberg with continuing to dig the city out of the pandemic  by ramping up vaccination efforts and putting San Antonians back to work. A little more than a third of Bexar County residents have been fully vaccinated, and the citys unemployment rate sits at 6.5 percent.

He has performed well during the pandemic, Cisneros said. Now, he has to use that same set of skills to bring us back.

To Nirenberg, the pandemic only laid bare the problems he sought to fix before the world ever learned of COVID-19, particularly the citys rampant poverty and economic segregation.

Im not interested in new shiny objects, Nirenberg said. Im interested in building a firm, strong city that can come back robustly from this pandemic and grow even firmer and more resilient in the future.

At an outside table at Tanks Pizza on the East Side, he pointed to the affordable housing agenda he enacted in his first term, a means to combat San Antonios worsening housing crisis  something the pandemic has exacerbated as renters and homeowners who are out of work struggle to make payments on their homes.

Much of Nirenbergs energy will go toward implementing the Ready to Work program, perhaps his signature political achievement. Voters in November greenlighted Nirenbergs four-year, $154 million plan to help 40,000 residents seek job training and degrees to help them get higher-paying jobs  funded with a 1/8-cent sales tax.

The idea is not only to fill jobs that are already open, but to boost training for a local workforce that employers have long complained lacks the necessary skills to do high-wage work.

Robin Jerstad / Robin Jerstad

Voters at that time also agreed to use that sales tax to pay for improvements to public transit. Though those dollars wont come in until the four-year term for Ready to Work is up, the city and VIA Metropolitan Transit can use them to apply for state and federal transportation grants, Nirenberg said.

Now his mind is turning to the citys infrastructure needs. Nirenberg and County Judge Nelson Wolff, a newfound ally amid the pandemic, are meeting weekly to hammer out a plan for what to do with federal dollars should President Joe Biden deliver on a $2 trillion infrastructure package.

We can have what will amount to, in local terms, an FDR-type of generational opportunity to transform the city in positive ways coming out of this pandemic, Nirenberg said.

Nirenberg will also have to deliver on police reform, observers said. Voters narrowly shot down Proposition B, a measure that would have taken away collective bargaining from police officers  a move proponents sought as a means to stop the police unions ability to influence how officers accused of misconduct are punished.

The close vote showed a hunger among voters for reform  though not at the expense of the union.

Some police reform advocates soured on Nirenberg because he didnt back Prop B  and instead told the police union he supports collective bargaining, avoiding taking a side on the proposition.

While some activists have acknowledged Nirenberg was in a tight spot, others feel burned and dont feel optimistic about a third term.

In terms of whats expected from him, I would say its this: Its empty political posturing and at best lip service without real, meaningful action towards these things that he claims to be about, local organizer Marlon Davis said.

But Nirenberg sees a path forward on bridging division over the issue: by reaching an agreement with the police union in its current contract negotiations with the city that gives Police Chief William McManus more power to punish bad officers. Achieving that will create greater trust between the police and community, Nirenberg said.

What I am saying is that in order to build trust between the community and police, we need to have an agreement that has proper accountability measures and transparency in the disciplinary process, Nirenberg said. That trust is a mutual contract between the community and police.

That was a matter for another day. Nirenberg and his family, including his father, Ken, sat down to lunch at Tanks Pizza  where Nirenberg, a health nut, ordered a pie loaded with veggies. At one point, a couple who plans to own a restaurant nearby got wind that he was there and stopped by to say congratulations.

At another point, Mike Brown, owner of Tanks Pizza, popped in to embrace the mayor.

A lot of people were really excited about what happened last night, man, Brown told Nirenberg.

Nirenberg was a bit sad Brown couldnt swing by his victory party at Backyard on Broadway on Saturday night. But, he promised, Well celebrate a little bit, too.

No doubt about it, Brown said.

Contributing photographer Robin Jerstad contributed to this report.
Voters rejection of Proposition B notched a significant victory for the San Antonio Police Officers Association on Saturday  but political experts warned that the razor-thin loss should also serve as a wake-up call for the union.

Fifty-one percent of voters opposed Prop B, which would have stripped the union of its right to collectively bargain with the city on wages and other benefits, while 49 percent supported it.

The measure was one of two propositions on the ballot. The other, Proposition A, passed with 58 percent of the vote. The measure amends the city charter to allow bond money to be used for affordable housing.

Colin Strother, a political consultant who has worked for the fire union, said the tight race for approval of Prop B shows there is significant support for police reform.

This should serve as a wake-up call for the union that its not 1997, its not 2007 anymore, Strother said. The public is running out of patience on peoples rights being abused and ignored.

2021 S.A. elections preview Listen: The Express-News political team discuss the ways two major ballot propositions are tilting this year's city council races.

Supporters of the measure  namely Fix SAPD, a police reform group that formed after George Floyds murder last year by Minneapolis police  framed their loss the same way.

The group said the propositions loss  by less than 3,500 votes  was a win.

We had never done something like this before, said Ojiyoma Martin, who founded Fix SAPD with her brother, Ejiro. My brother and I had never run for office. I think we did pretty good, regardless of the outcome.

She said the vote is a message to city leaders that they need to prioritize police reforms.

Now City Council knows the public wants police accountability, she said. They are no longer beholden to the police union. They know the public will hold them accountable.

On ExpressNews.com: Would Prop B hold San Antonio police accountable or defund them?

The union was pleased with the win. It first gained collective bargaining rights in 1974 after approval by voters and is in the midst of negotiating a new contract.

First and foremost, its a victory for the citizens of San Antonio, said Danny Diaz, the unions president. It was hard fought. The citizens have spoken. Now its time to get back to work.

Im willing to talk to anyone and everyone  on how we can fix things, Diaz said Saturday, as dozens of police union supporters stood behind him cheering. We have to have an open dialogue.

Opponents of Prop B  led by the police union  described it as a misguided attempt at police accountability that could have hindered recruitment of new officers, motivated more officers to retire and given Chief William McManus too much leeway in disciplinary actions.

The union said the fallout from Prop B would have damaged the Police Department, leading to slower response times to the publics calls for help. It said it recognized the need for reforms  but argued that the best way to accomplish that is at the bargaining table.

But supporters of Prop B argued that repealing collective bargaining would have given the city greater latitude in labor negotiations  specifically, they wanted the city to put more teeth in the disciplinary process for suspending or firing officers.

Fix SAPD contended that too many San Antonio officers who were fired for misconduct have won reinstatement through the appeal process outlined in the contract.

By various estimates, about two-thirds of police officers who were fired later returned to the force: They were either reinstated by the police chief or by independent arbitrators who hear and rule on officers appeals.

Laura Barberena, a local political consultant, said the close race shows how the public is concerned about police misconduct.

We like to think theres a winner and a loser, but I think both can be winners here, Barberena said. The police are winners because they know a majority of the public supports them and their right to collectively bargain, and the activists can see it as a win because they brought this issue into the public sphere.

Sometimes you dont necessarily run to win, Barberena added. You run to bring light to a particular issue, you run to bring light to how a certain population feels about an issue. Thats what Fix SAPD did here.

Mayor Ron Nirenberg agreed that the close vote on Prop B underscores the need for change.

Thats what Ive been devoted to for the last six years since we saw the previous contract, Nirenberg said Saturday, before all the votes were counted. And thats whats going to continue to be my priority moving forward in the next contract, whether Proposition B passes or fails.

Not the end of it

The vote on Prop B culminated a nearly yearlong campaign by Fix SAPD that began after Floyds murder. His death, and the subsequent conviction of former police officer Derek Chauvin nearly two weeks ago, cast an intense spotlight on police misconduct.

Lisa Krantz, Staff / Staff photographer

After Floyds death, some community activists  both locally and nationally  turned their attention to what they described as the overwhelming influence of police unions and how to rein that in.

Demonte Alexander, a political consultant and community activist, said the close vote on Prop B shows activists, city officials and union leaders throughout the U.S. that such a measure could pass.

Sometimes, the dance floor doesnt get packed until you see that first couple out there dancing, Alexander said. It gave them a blueprint to other communities who want change.

In an otherwise low-key election, Prop B arguably generated more debate and heated campaign activity than even the mayoral race. More people  around 1,300 more  voted on Prop B than did in the mayoral race.

Alexander said Prop B likely attracted many folks who traditionally dont vote.

I think we can attribute all of that to Proposition B, Alexander said. There were a lot of new voters. People who didnt traditionally vote in municipal races came out to vote.

Had the proposition passed, it would have marked a major turning point for the police union, which has amassed significant power over the last several decades, serving as a national model for other police unions trying to negotiate attractive salaries and benefits.

The tactics used by the local union didnt come without a fair share of controversy.

Some argued that the union had amassed so much power that it shielded officers from accountability.

It was a news story about how the union shields many officers from discipline after being fired for misconduct that prompted Martin, of Fix SAPD, to start collecting signatures to place Prop B on the ballot.

Martin  a 34-year-old mother of two who is a communications coordinator for a pediatric speech clinic  and her brother, Ejiro, started collecting signatures to place Chapters 143 and 174 of the Texas Local Government Code on the ballot.

Lisa Krantz/Staff photographer

On ExpressNews.com: In San Antonio municipal races, police reform is a touchy topic

Chapter 143 of the Texas Local Government Code, which was approved locally in 1947, provides civil service protections for police officers and firefighters. It also governs police hiring, promotions and discipline.

Layered on top of that is Chapter 174, which gives police the right to collectively bargain and adopt local rules that supersede those established by Chapter 143.

In the end, Fix SAPD didnt get enough signatures to place Chapter 143 on the ballot, but leaders say they plan to do that at a later date.

Barberena, the political consultant, said the vote on Prop B should signal to union and city officials the need to address discipline in the contract.

We need to deal with this, Barberena said. Otherwise, Fix SAPD will gather another 20,000 signatures and its going to go back on the ballot.

While union officials have indicated they will address discipline during contract negotiations, changes in the disciplinary process  and specifically who should have the final say about punishment after an officer appeals  have been a sticking point since contract discussions began in February.

Strother, the consultant who has worked for the fire union, agreed that needs to change.

Prop B is not the end of it, Strother said. Unless there are some real reforms put in place, we will be right back here on the next election if not sooner. People arent going to put up with this anymore.

eeaton@express-news.net
The Texas House gave initial approval on Monday to a bill that would allow judges to deny no-cost personal bonds to people accused of violent or sexual offenses and would mandate the creation of a statewide risk assessment tool for setting bail, addressing a priority issue for Republican leaders.

The bill, and another that has passed in the Senate, are backed respectively by Republican Gov. Greg Abbott and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick. They center on the decisions that judges make about whether to detain people charged with criminal offenses while they await trial.

Critics say the legislation will do little to dissemble a system that punishes poor defendants by keeping them locked up solely because they cant afford bail. Harris County in 2019 stopped requiring bail for most low-level crimes after the U.S. Supreme Court found the system to be unconstitutionally discriminatory; federal judges have similarly ruled against Dallas Countys bail practices.

House Bill 20, which is up for its final vote later this week, would also set new requirements for training for judges on bail duties and give judges a 48-hour deadline to decide whether to deny or grant bail using the least restrictive conditions and minimum amount of bail that will still keep the community safe.

The bills author, state Rep. Andrew Murr, R-Junction, who is an attorney and former judge, said he spent hundreds of hours working with and listening to advocacy groups in crafting the bill, a similar version of which failed to pass in 2019. It is dedicated to state trooper Damon Allen, who was fatally shot in 2017 by a suspect who was out on bond.

The goal today is to strike a balance in which we provide information, credible information, to our trained magistrates, so they can determine that those who are low-risk have a chance to get out whereas those that are at a higher risk with a violent offense or violent criminal history, they dont easily pay and immediately walk on the street the next day and do something else that harms us, Murr said.

MORE ON DAMON ALLEN: Texas trooper slain on Thanksgiving was father of three, 15-year veteran of force

Proponents of the bill have said the statewide risk assessment will help judges ensure that people who arent dangerous will be able to walk free while the poor wont face detention for lack of money. It will be based on empirical data that does not consider factors that disproportionately affect minority groups. Judges will be able to use it as a reference but will not be bound to the results and will still have ultimate discretion over most bail decisions.

But those opposing the legislation say such risk assessments are prone to the same biases that have led minorities to be disproportionately incarcerated across the nation.

There is no such thing as a race-neutral risk assessment tool, said Nick Hudson, policy and advocacy strategist with the American Civil Liberties Union, at a hearing on the bill earlier this month. Its mathematically impossible.

Hudson pointed to studies that showed that a popular software system sold to jurisdictions across the country was twice as likely to label black defendants as higher risk compared to white defendants. They found that changes needed to be made to the formula to remove racial bias.

We are very concerned that these tools, if we hook our entire pre-trial system to the wagon of pre-trial assessments, we will very likely exacerbate racial inequity, he said.

TEXAS TAKE: Get political headlines from across the state sent directly to your inbox

Derek Cohen, vice president of policy at the conservative-leaning Texas Public Policy Foundation, said unlike proprietary software, the criteria and reasoning behind the Texas risk assessment would be transparent to judges and the public alike. He added that the bill includes a requirement that the states Office of Court Administration collect data and study the system and produce a report with recommendations on improvements annually.

Concerns of discrimination are valid, but unfounded, Cohen said. The benchmark these policies should be judged against is the status quo and not a hypothetical fantasy world.

Several Democratic amendments were tacked onto the bill on the floor on Monday, including one by Rep. Terry Canales, D-Edinburg, that would allow a person unable to pay bail to submit an affidavit stating the maximum amount they would be able to pay and have a hearing before a judge, who could then consider it and deviate from any bail schedule in making a final decision.

Another by Rep. Gene Wu, D-Houston, provides that people who are found not guilty or have their charges dismissed after a trial or appeal receive a full bail refund, including clerk fees.

Similar legislation in the Senate, SB 21, authored by Sen. Joan Huffman, R-Houston, focuses on repeat offenders and would require cash bail for people who have been accused or previously convicted of violent crimes. The bill passed the upper chamber last month but has been sitting in the House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee since mid-April.

taylor.goldenstein@chron.com
A Buddha statue, provided to the Tongdo Temple by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations, is seen during a handing-over ceremony at the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre of the Embassy of India in Seoul, Friday. Courtesy of the Indian Embassy to Korea



By Kwon Mee-yoo



The Indian Council for Cultural Relations has provided a bronze Buddha statue to the Tongdo Temple in Yangsan, South Gyeongsang Province, as a gift to strengthen cultural ties between India and Korea.



A handing-over ceremony of the statue was held at the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre at the Embassy of India in Seoul, Friday.



The ceremony kicked off with rituals and a chanting ceremony for the statue by monks from the Tongdo Temple, followed by a Kathak dance performance by Avijeet Chakravarty and Oh Suk-hee, paying tribute to the Buddha.



In her congratulatory remarks, Ambassador of India to Korea Sripriya Ranganathan first expressed gratitude to the venerable monks who traveled all the way from Yangsan to Seoul to take part in the sacred ceremony.



"I look forward to doing a great deal with the Tongdosa Temple authorities and the people of Yangsan. May will be a special month for us, as we will go to Tongdosa, carrying forward this process that we have begun today; and looking forward to further drawing together the people of India and Korea through this beautiful medium of Buddhism," Ranganathan said.





Ambassador of India to Korea Sripriya Ranganathan makes a congratulatory speech at the Buddhist statue handing-over ceremony at the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre of the Embassy of India in Seoul, Friday. Courtesy of the Indian Embassy to Korea
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Kriti Sanons next film, Mimi is based on the story of a surrogate mother. The film also stars Saie Tamhankar and is produced by Dinesh Vijan. Kriti has earlier expressed her excitement for the film and was looking forward to a theatrical release. The filmmakers even waited for the entirety of last year to release the movie in the theatres but the latest is that the film has cracked a good deal with an online streaming platform.

Sharing some information on the same, a source revealed, Dinesh Vijan has inked a huge deal with a big streaming giant to premiere Kriti's Mimi, along with a few other projects that are already in place. While the team wanted to release their movies in theatres and even tried the same with Roohi, the current situation looks extremely bleak for theatres to even think of reopening. It doesn't seem likely in the next three months, because there is a possibility of a third wave. Dinesh has checked all possibilities and finally decided to go online with Mimi. He has earned a good profit and is expected to make the announcement soon.

Apart from this, news of Vijan considering an OTT release for Sunny Kaushals Shiddat is also doing the rounds.
NEW YORK CITY (dpa-AFX) - Verizon Communications Inc. (VZ) is nearing a deal to sell its digital media assets, which includes Yahoo and AOL, to the private equity firm Apollo Global Management, as part of the telecom giant's plan to exit from its investments in digital media, according to the reports citing people familiar with the matter. The reports said the deal could be worth $4 billion and $5 billion. But the reports cautioned that the talks could still fall apart. Verizon had purchased AOL in 2015 and Yahoo in 2017 for a sum of more than $9 billion as it wanted to make its mark in the ever-growing market of online media. Also, the fact that many people had their accounts in these two websites also attracted the Verizon investment. In 2020, Verizon's digital media segment, including Yahoo Finance, Yahoo Mail and news sites like TechCrunch, Engadget, brought in revenues of $7 billion, down 5.6 percent from last year. This was mainly due to a sharp fall in advertising revenues in the first half of the year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 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.




By Ko Dong-hwan







Many "room salons"  a Korean term to describe bars with private rooms for hostesses to entertain customers, and often fronts for prostitution  are continuing to operate secretly from motels these days to avoid COVID-19 distancing measures, according to police and a media report, Sunday.







The Gyeonggi Nambu Provincial Police Agency said it searched one such establishment in Suwon's Ingye area April 30. In a room there, were two men and two women with a table full of liquor bottles and side dishes such as fruits and snacks, according to the Chosun Ilbo, a daily newspaper.







After officers broke into the room, the people inside yelled at them and claimed that they were "just couples having fun," the report said.







But documents found in the room showed clues about the true nature of their relationships  a list of room numbers and whiskey names among other information.







Police said the entire floor of the motel was catering to such customers  who would have visited "room salons" if they weren't ordered closed by the government due to risk of spreading the coronavirus infection.







This was part of the sweeping crackdown on "motel salons" by 250 police officers across the southern Gyeonggi provincial region. Police said 210 people, including business owners, employees and customers from 28 venues, were busted during the crackdown and are now being questioned for allegedly violating social distancing measures.


Advanced Clinical, a global clinical research services organization, is pleased to announce that the company's global expansion into the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region continues with the opening of a new office in Singapore.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210502005013/en/

Advanced Clinical expands global presence to Singapore (Graphic: Business Wire)

Centrally located within the region, the new Singapore headquarters will function as the company's coordination center for APAC and will serve as a key locale in close proximity to prominent Key Opinion Leaders, research centers, and current and prospective biopharmaceutical clients located in the region.

Advanced Clinical will continue its Asia-Pacific expansion efforts in subsequent months with plans to add additional locations in Japan, Australia, South Korea, Taiwan, and China.

"Asia-Pacific continues to be a hotbed for innovation in the life science industry," said Ivana Waller, Managing Director Europe and Senior Vice President, Global Development and Expansion. "For these reasons, it's strategically beneficial that Advanced Clinical establish a headquarters in the heart of one of the fastest-growing regions. We are very excited to be able to provide real-time, on-the-ground resources to our established clients and growing number of prospects who are developing cutting-edge treatments and need increased efficiencies."

"By expanding throughout the APAC region, we continue to increase value to our current customers and the portfolio of global programs we have been entrusted to run," adds Julie Ross, president of Advanced Clinical. "Our investment into the region coupled with the exceptional talent that have joined our team, enhances our differentiated and mid-market focused service offerings within the clinical research industry."

In addition to Singapore, Advanced Clinical has established European operations in Germany, Netherlands, United Kingdom, Spain, France, Italy, Romania, Poland and Ukraine. Its United States offices are headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, with locations also in Orlando, Florida and San Francisco, California.

About Advanced Clinical

Advanced Clinical is a privately-held, single owner, global clinical research services organization, providing full-service CRO, FSP and Strategic Resourcing solutions for biopharmaceutical and medical device organizations. Our company is committed to improving all lives touched by clinical research and we address the hopes of patients and healthcare professionals with industry-leading services and technology in life sciences. Visit our website to learn more about how we deliver a Better Clinical Experience:https://www.advancedclinical.com/

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210502005013/en/

Contacts:

Stephanie Swanson

Senior Director of Marketing

P: (312) 572-6000

sswanson@advancedclinical.com


NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION IN ANY JURISDICTION IN WHICH IT WOULD BE UNLAWFUL TO DO SO.

Pratteln, Schweiz, 3. Mai 2021 - Santhera Pharmaceuticals (SIX: SANN) gibt bekannt, dass das am 25. Marz 2021 angekundigte Umtauschangebot fur die CHF 60 Millionen Wandelanleihe am 4. Mai 2021 vollzogen wird.

Mit dem Ruckkaufsinserat vom 25. Marz 2021 (das Ruckkaufsinserat) veroffentlichte Santhera Pharmaceuticals Holding AG ein Angebot zum Umtausch der ausstehenden CHF 60 Millionen 5%-Wandelanleihe mit Falligkeit 2022 (die 2017/22 Wandelanleihe) nach den im Ruckkaufsinserat aufgefuhrten Konditionen (das Umtauschangebot). Das Umtauschangebot wurde von Anleihensglaubigern in Bezug auf die 2017/22 Wandelobligationen mit einem Gesamtnennbetrag von CHF 44'845'000 angenommen, was 74.7% der sich im Umlauf befindlichen 2017/22 Wandelanleihe entspricht.

Vollzug

Santhera hat entschieden, das Umtauschangebot am 4. Mai 2021 zu vollziehen. Das Umtauschangebot wird uber das Bankensystem abgewickelt. Mit dem Vollzug wird auf die Erfullung aller Angebotsbedingungen (b), (c), (d) und (e), wie im Ruckkaufsinserat definiert, die bis zu diesem Datum nicht erfullt sind, verzichtet.

Inhaber von 2017/22 Wandelobligationen, die das Umtauschangebot nicht angenommen haben, bleiben Anleihensglaubiger gemass den Bedingungen der 2017/22 Wandelanleihe.

Die Gesellschaft wird den Wandelpreis am 4. Mai 2021 bekannt geben. Die Abstimmung der Anleihensglaubiger uber die Restrukturierung der 2017/22 Wandelanleihe, die der Anleihensglaubigerversammlung am 8. Marz 2021 vorgeschlagen worden war, ist nun abgeschlossen und hat keine Zweidrittelmehrheit erreicht.

Stifel Nicolaus Europe Limited wurde von der Gesellschaft als alleiniger Finanzberater beauftragt.

Zugehorige Dokumente

Ruckkaufsinserat



Vorlaufiger Emissions- und Kotierungsprospekt fur die Neue Anleihe: https://www.santhera.de/investors-and-media/investor-toolbox/umtauschangebot-anleihe



Unternehmenskalender

22. Juni 2021 Generalversammlung

Uber Santhera

Santhera Pharmaceuticals.

Raxone ist eine eingetragene Marke von Santhera Pharmaceuticals.

Fur weitere Auskunfte wenden Sie sich bitte an:

public-relations@santhera.comoder

Eva Kalias, Head External Communications

Tel.: +41 79 875 27 80

eva.kalias@santhera.com

Forward-looking statements

This communication does not constitute an offer or invitation to subscribe for or purchase any securities of Santhera Pharmaceuticals Holding AG. This publication may contain certain forward-looking statements concerning the Company and its business. Such statements involve certain risks, uncertainties and other factors which could cause the actual results, financial condition, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such statements. Readers should therefore not place undue reliance on these statements, particularly not in connection with any contract or investment decision. The Company disclaims any obligation to update these forward-looking statements.

Offer Restrictions

The Exchange Offer is not being made and will not be made, directly or indirectly, in any country or jurisdiction in which the Exchange Offer would be considered unlawful or otherwise violate any applicable laws or regulations, or which would require the Company or any of its subsidiaries to change or amend the terms or conditions of the Exchange Offer in any material way, to make an additional filing with any governmental, regulatory or other authority or take additional action in relation to the Exchange Offer. It is not intended to extend the Exchange Offer to any such country or jurisdiction. Any such document relating to the Exchange Offer must neither be distributed in any such country or jurisdiction nor be sent into such country or jurisdiction, and must not be used for the purpose of soliciting the purchase of securities of the Company by any person or entity resident or incorporated in any such country or jurisdiction.

United States

The Exchange Offer is being made in the United States in reliance on, and compliance with, Section 14(e) of the US Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and Regulation 14E thereunder.

The Company, certain affiliated companies and the nominees or brokers (acting as agents) may make certain purchases of, or arrangements to purchase, 2017/22 Bonds outside the Exchange Offer during the period in which the Exchange Offer remains open for acceptance. If such purchases or arrangements to purchase are made they will be made outside the United States and will comply with applicable law, including the Exchange Act.

The Company as the offeror is a Swiss company. Information distributed in connection with the Exchange Offer is subject to Swiss disclosure requirements that are different from those of the United States. Financial statements and financial information included herein are prepared in accordance with Swiss accounting standards that may not be comparable to the financial statements or financial information of United States companies.

It may be difficult for you to enforce your rights and any claim you may have arising under the U.S. federal securities laws in respect of the Exchange Offer, since the Company is located in Switzerland and all of its officers and directors are residents of Switzerland or elsewhere outside of the United States. You may not be able to sue the Company or its officers or directors in a Swiss court or another court outside the United States for violations of the U.S. securities laws. Finally, it may be difficult to compel the Company and its affiliates to subject themselves to a U.S. court's judgment.

United Kingdom

The communication of this publication and any other documents or materials relating to the Exchange Offer is not being made and such documents and/or materials have not been approved by an authorized person for the purposes of section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000, as amended. Accordingly, such documents and/or materials are not being distributed to, are not directed at and must not be passed on to, the general public in the United Kingdom. The communication of such documents and/or materials as a financial promotion is only being made to persons within the United Kingdom falling within the definition of investment professionals (as defined in Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 (the Order)) or falling within Article 43(2) of the Order, or to other persons to whom it may lawfully be communicated (together "relevant persons"). The investment activity to which this document relates will only be engaged in with relevant persons and persons who are not relevant persons should not rely on it.

European Economic Area

In any Member State of the European Economic Area (the EEA) or in the United Kingdom (each, a Relevant State), this Notice is only addressed to, and is only directed at, qualified investors in that Relevant State within the meaning of Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 (the Prospectus Regulation). Each person in a Relevant State who receives any communication in respect of the Exchange Offer contemplated in this Notice will be deemed to have represented, warranted and agreed to and with the Company and the Tender Agent that it is a qualified investor within the meaning of the Prospectus Regulation. The 2017/22 Bonds have not been admitted to trading on a regulated market in the EEA or in the United Kingdom.

Switzerland

This communication qualifies as advertisement pursuant to the Swiss Financial Services Act. Investors are furthermore advised to consult their bank or financial adviser before making any investment decision.

# # #

Anhang
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 3, 2021) - Los Andes Copper Ltd. (TSXV: LA) ("Los Andes" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has entered into an agreement with Queen's Road Capital Investment Ltd. (TSXV: QRC) ("Queen's Road Capital") whereby Queen's Road Capital will invest US$5,000,000 in Los Andes by the way of convertible debenture (the "Convertible Debenture"). The proceeds from the Convertible Debentures will be used for general corporate purposes.

The Convertible Debenture will have a five-year term, carry an eight percent coupon and will be convertible into common shares in the capital of the Company ("Common Shares") at a share price of C$10.82. The interest is payable quarterly, five percent in cash and three percent in shares, at the 20-day volume weighted average price prior to the interest payment date.

The proceeds received from this investment will be allocated towards the completion of the Vizcachitas project ("Vizcachitas" or the "Vizcachitas Project") pre-feasibility study ("Pre-Feasibility Study").

The financing is subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions, including but not limited to TSX Venture Exchange ("TSX-V") and other regulatory approvals and the completion of due diligence and definitive documentation. The investment is expected to occur in May 2021.

In conjunction with the investment, Chairman and CEO of Queen's Road Capital, Warren Gilman, has agreed to be nominated for appointment to the board of directors of the Company at its upcoming shareholder meeting.

Fernando Porcile, Executive Chairman of Los Andes, commented:

"We are pleased to have entered into this investment agreement with Queen's Road Capital, and Los Andes is the company's first investment in the copper sector, highlighting the high quality nature of the Vizcachitas Project.

"This investment follows the receipt of unanimous approval for drilling to be carried out at the Vizcachitas Project, which is required to complete the ongoing Pre-Feasibility Study, and I look forward to keeping the market updated with our progress."

Warren Gilman, Chairman and CEO of Queen's Road Capital, commented:

"Queen's Road Capital is happy that its first investment in the copper sector is in Los Andes Copper. The Vizcachitas Project is potentially the most advanced, ready to build copper porphyry project in South America. We look forward to working together with Fernando and his team as they advance the Vizcachitas Project towards production."

About Queen's Road Capital Investment Ltd.

Queen's Road Capital Investment Ltd. is a leading financier to the global resource sector. The company is a resource focused investment company, making investments in privately held and publicly traded resource companies.

It is intended that the company will acquire and hold securities for both long-term capital appreciation and short-term gains, with a focus on convertible debt securities and resource projects in advanced development or production located in safe jurisdictions.

Queen's Road Capital Investment Ltd. is listed on the TSX-V under the ticker: QRC.

About Los Andes Copper Ltd.

Los Andes Copper Ltd. is a development company with a 100% interest in the Vizcachitas Project in Chile. The Company is focused on progressing the Vizcachitas Project, which is located along Chile's most prolific copper belt, into production.

Vizcachitas is a copper-molybdenum porphyry deposit, located 120 km north of Santiago, Chile, in an area of good infrastructure. The National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101") compliant report titled "Preliminary Economic Assessment of the Vizcachitas Project" (the "PEA"), dated June 13, 2019, prepared by Tetra Tech, highlights that the Vizcachitas Project has a post-tax NPV (8% discount rate) of approximately USD$1.8 billion and an IRR of 20.77%, based on a USD$3 per pound copper price. The Vizcachitas Project has a Measured Resource of 254.4 million tonnes at a grade of 0.439% copper and an Indicated Resource of approximately 1.03 billion tonnes at a grade of 0.385% copper. The PEA can be found on the Company's SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com.

The PEA is preliminary in nature, it includes inferred mineral resources that are considered too speculative geologically to have the economic considerations applied to them that would enable them to be categorized as mineral reserves, and there is no certainty that the PEA will be realized.

The Company is currently undertaking the Pre-Feasibility Study of the Vizcachitas Project. With the incorporation of a highly experienced management team, Vizcachitas is incorporating changes to position itself on the forefront of global environmental trends for mining. The conversion to dry-stacked filtered tailings will result in a substantial reduction in water consumption and will discard the use of tailings dams, thus reducing Vizcachitas' footprint, environmental impact and seismic risks.

Additionally, there is significant exploration upside at Vizcachitas with the potential to increase the mineral resource base beyond the initial 45-year mine life modelled in the PEA. Part of this upside has been further delineated in the geological mapping and geophysics work program completed during the 2020 Chilean winter season.

Los Andes Copper Ltd. is listed on the TSX-V under the ticker: LA.

Qualified Persons

Antony Amberg CGeol FGS, the Company's President and CEO, is the qualified person under NI 43-101 who have reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information contained in this news release.

For more information please contact:

Fernando Porcile, Executive Chairman

Tel: +56 2 2954-0450

Antony J. Amberg, President & CEO

Tel: +56 2 2954-0450

Blytheweigh, Financial PR

Megan Ray

Rachael Brooks

Tel: +44 207 138 3203

E-Mail: info@losandescopper.com or visit our website at: www.losandescopper.com

Follow us on twitter @LosAndesCopper

Follow us on LinkedIn Los Andes Copper Ltd

Certain of the information and statements contained herein that are not historical facts, constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of the Securities Act (British Columbia), Securities Act (Ontario) and the Securities Act (Alberta) ("Forward-Looking Information"). Forward-Looking Information is often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "seek", "anticipate", "believe", "plan", "estimate", "expect" and "intend"; statements that an event or result is "due" on or "may", "will", "should", "could", or might" occur or be achieved; and, other similar expressions. More specifically, Forward-Looking Information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company, or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such Forward-Looking Information. Such Forward Looking Information includes, without limitation, the final terms of the Convertible Debentures, the timing and closing of the offering, Warren Gilman being elected to the board of directors of the Company, the timing of and ability to obtain TSX-V and other regulatory approvals and the prospects, details related to and timing of the Vizcachitas Project. Such Forward-Looking Information is based upon the Company's assumptions regarding global and Chilean economic, political and market conditions and the price of metals and energy and the Company's production. Among the factors that have a direct bearing on the Company's future results of operations and financial conditions are changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, a change in government policies, competition, currency fluctuations and restrictions and technological changes, among other things. Should one or more of any of the aforementioned risks and uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from any conclusions, forecasts or projections described in the Forward-Looking Information. Accordingly, readers are advised not to place undue reliance on Forward-Looking Information. Except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise Forward-Looking Information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

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.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/82594
E-58425 is an investigational novel co-crystal form of celecoxib and tramadol (1-9) currently under FDA review(8,9)

BARCELONA, Spain, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Esteve Pharmaceuticals (ESTEVE), an international specialty pharmaceutical company devoted to the development and commercialization of innovative products, today announced an agreement with Kowa Pharmaceuticals America, Inc. (KPA) under which ESTEVE has granted KPA exclusive rights to commercialize E-58425 in the United States. E-58425 is an investigational medicinal product under development for the management of acute pain in adults that is severe enough to require an opioid analgesic and for which alternative treatments are inadequate[1-9].

E-58425 is a proprietary product that has been developed by ESTEVE's in-house R&D team. It is a new product comprised of a co-crystal form of celecoxib (an anti-inflammatory) and tramadol (an analgesic) for the management of acute pain in adults[1-7] currently under review by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)[8,9]. A decision on its approval is expected this year.

ESTEVE will be the supplier of the product and will retain worldwide rights to this product, except in the United States and Canada. If approved by the FDA, E-58425 will be ESTEVE's first proprietary research product to enter the US market.

Staffan Schuberg, CEO of ESTEVE, said: "The agreement with KPA marks a new milestone in the company's history with a product that has the potential to meet an unmet medical need in the United States and around the world. If approved by FDA, patients and healthcare providers will have access to a new treatment option for acute pain management in adults."

Ben Stakely, CEO of KPA, said: "We are delighted to be working with an innovative company like ESTEVE to introduce E-58425 to the United States market. We look forward to a productive long-term relationship."

About E-58425

E-58425 is an investigational new co-crystal entity of celecoxib and tramadol[7] designed for acute pain management with complementary analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties[3,5] in a multimodal treatment approach[5,6]. Targeting four complementary pain relief mechanisms[6], E-58425 offers a potential new treatment option for acute pain management aligned with the multimodal analgesia now considered standard care[10]. This novel co-crystal structure produces a unique pharmacokinetic profile of its active pharmaceutical ingredients compared to their individual or combined administration[1,2,4,7].

E-58425 is also currently under review in several European regulatory agencies.

References

Br J Clin Pharmacol. 2017;83(12):2718-2728. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 2018;84(1):64-78. Drugs R D. 2018;18(2):137-148. Clin Drug Investig. 2018;38(9):819-827. Expert Opin Investig Drugs. 2019;28(5):399-409. 6.J Pain Res. 2019;12:2679-2689. 7.Cryst. Growth Des. 2019;19(6):3172-3182. https://www.fda.gov/media/134129/download. 2020. https://www.fda.gov/media/134714/download. 2020. J . Pain 2016; 17 (2): 131-157.

About ESTEVE

For more information about ESTEVE visit www.esteve.com.
WINTERTHUR, Switzerland, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Swiss start-up Turicode has changed its name to Acodis. The name change is part of an overall rebranding that will promote clear visual communication for its upcoming Intelligent Document Processing (IDP) platform. The new visual identity includes a new name, logo, and design principles inspired by the company's mission to turn documents into value.

A New Look for New Standards

Acodis CEO and co-founder Martin Keller emphasises that the new brand identity is the next logical step of the company's growth. "Over the past five years, Acodis has been able to solve many challenges in document processing for its numerous customers with the help of machine learning. This experience has been carefully immersed into the development of the new Acodis platform. The software is setting new standards in terms of ease-of-use, versatility, security and performance in the field of IDP."

Director of Marketing Simon Lehmann says, "Every day, more businesses are looking to us as they take their next step toward fully automated document processes. The new Acodis identity will give them a consistent experience across all touchpoints in their journey."

Enabling Automated Document Processing With IDP

The technology enables companies to automate all key aspects of document-heavy business processes with just a few clicks. Acodis IDP automates:

Document inspection Document classification Data extraction Data validation and analysis

The IDP platform from Acodis is powered by machine learning and allows for much faster and more intelligent automation than existing robotic process automation options. Acodis has pioneered this field for five years, and the upcoming platform represents the future of intelligent automation. Since every business process starts, involves, or ends with documents, the market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 70-80% (Source: Everest Group), and companies that adopt machine learning are expected to shape the future after Covid-19 (Source: Boston Consulting Group).

Contact Details

Simon Lehmann

simon.lehmann@acodis.io

+41 52 520 6202

acodis.io

About Acodis

Acodis is dedicated to the automation of business documents since its founding in 2016. The Acodis IDP platform, powered by machine learning, enables automated processing of any document within seconds. This replaces manual document transfers and allows extracted data to be exported in a structured format. Acodis is based in Winterthur, Switzerland, and currently employs 25 people.

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1500684/Acodis_Logo.jpg
BRUSSELS/FRANKFURT/PARIS (dpa-AFX) - European stocks were moving higher on Monday as German retail sales data for March beat forecasts, boosting hopes of a rapid economic recovery. German retail sales grew by a real 7.7 percent on a monthly basis in March, Destatis reported. That was faster than the 2.7 percent increase in February and 3 percent rise economists had forecast. On a yearly basis, retail sales rebounded 11 percent, reversing a 6.6 percent fall in the previous month and confounding expectations for a decrease of 0.3 percent. Eurozone PMI Manufacturing was finalized at 62.9 in April, up from March's 62.5, highest since record began in 1997, Markit said earlier in the day. The pan European Stoxx 600 rose 0.3 percent to 438.63 after declining 0.3 percent on Friday. The German DAX rose half a percent and France's CAC 40 index was up 0.4 percent, while the U.K. markets were closed for a public holiday. Novartis shares gained about 1 percent. Sandoz, a Novartis unit, said it will begin enrolling the first patient in MYLIGHT, a clinical Phase III confirmatory efficacy and safety study, shortly. Dutch telecom firm Royal KPN NV tumbled 3.6 percent. The company confirmed that it has rejected an unsolicited takeover offer from a private equity consortium comprising EQT and Stonepeak. German medical technology company Siemens Healthineers rose over 1 percent. The company has again raised outlook for fiscal 2021 based on continued strong business development in the second quarter and the transformative merger with Varian. 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.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 3, 2021) - EMX Royalty Corporation (NYSE American: EMX) (TSXV: EMX) (FSE: 6E9) (the "Company" or "EMX") is pleased to announce it has recently optioned four copper projects from its western U.S. royalty generation portfolio for cash payments, work commitments, and retained royalty interests to the Company's benefit. In addition, an extension of the Regional Strategic Alliance ("RSA") with South32 USA Exploration Inc. ("South32"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of South32 Limited (ASX, LSE, JSE: S32; ADR: SOUHY), covering the 2021-2022 work programs has been executed. EMX currently has 27 copper projects in the western U.S., and is a leading holder of mining claims in Arizona. Fourteen of these projects are either optioned to partner companies, held under the South32 RSA, or in royalty status.

EMX has been growing its royalty generation portfolio in the Laramide copper belt of the southwestern U.S., as well as other prospective regions, for over a decade (see Figure 1). The Company utilizes a fundamental, but previously under-appreciated, geologic understanding that post-mineral extensional tectonics has structurally dissected, and in some cases significantly rotated, the older porphyry copper systems. This structural geologic framework, coupled with an evolving understanding of deposit-scale geologic characteristics, the leveraging of historical datasets resulting from decades of exploration by previous workers, and a seasoned exploration team has led to a number of project acquisitions via staking in "brownfield" exploration settings of productive mining districts. Over the years, EMX has completed 16 deals with major mining companies (e.g., South32, Kennecott, Freeport, Vale, and Anglo-American), as well as junior explorers, on various assets in its copper-focused base metals royalty generation portfolio. Last year, 13 projects were advanced by partner funded work programs totaling over C$7.5 million of expenditures.

The four new option agreements complement the three earlier copper project agreements in 2021, and coupled with the South32 generative alliance poises the Company and its partners to aggressively advance the portfolio with drilling and other exploration programs. The EMX team is continuing to identify new opportunities, and acquire additional projects in the western U.S. which are available for partnership.

Roulette Property. EMX executed an exploration and option agreement with Mason Resources (US) Inc., a subsidiary of Hudbay Minerals Inc. ("Hudbay"), on the Company's Roulette property located in the Yerington District of western Nevada at the end of 2020. Under the terms of the agreement, Hudbay will make option payments over a three year period totaling $250,000 and complete a 3,000 meter drill program to test two separate porphyry copper and iron-oxide-copper-gold ("IOCG") targets. After Hudbay's exercise of the option for 100% interest, EMX will retain a 2.5% NSR royalty, and receive annual advance royalty ("AAR") payments of $75,000, as well as milestone payments of $500,000, $1,000,000, and $1,000,000 upon completion of a preliminary economic assessment, pre-feasibility study, and a feasibility study, respectively that involves mining at the Roulette property. The NSR royalty can be reduced, and the AAR payments eliminated, if Hudbay makes certain one-time payments. Previously, the property was under option to another company that completed geophysical surveys, geochemical sampling, and a four hole drill program that intersected distal styles of porphyry copper mineralization to the north of the current target area.

Copper Springs, Jasper Canyon, and Malone Projects. In Q1 of 2021, EMX executed three separate exploration and option agreements with South32 which provides "Designated Project" status to its Copper Springs, Jasper Canyon and Malone projects. The Copper Springs and Jasper Canyon projects occur in the Globe-Miami mining district in east-central Arizona, and the Malone project is located in southwestern New Mexico, approximately 35 kilometers southwest of Silver City. Under the terms of the agreements, South32 can earn a 100% interest in a given project by making yearly option payments and completing work commitments over a five year period. After South32's exercise of the option, EMX will retain a 2% NSR royalty interest, and receive AAR and milestone payments (see EMX news release dated December 6, 2018 for further discussion of the commercial terms for Designated Projects).

The Globe-Miami district hosts numerous producing, and past producing, porphyry copper and related deposits. The district has undergone substantial post-mineral, mid-Tertiary extension that has structurally dismembered at least three large Laramide age porphyry copper centers. The Copper Springs project covers the middle to upper portions of the southernmost porphyry center. The project became available early in 2020 after a previous partner returned the project to 100% EMX control after completing geological mapping, geochemical sampling, geophysical surveys, and reconnaissance drill programs totaling 9,000 meters in seven holes. Importantly, these programs discovered mineralized fault-bounded and transported landslide blocks beneath post-mineral cover rocks. In addition, the geophysical work, portions of which were completed after the last drill program, has provided a clearer understanding of the depth to concealed target rocks for follow up drill testing.

The Jasper Canyon project was originally selected by South32 as an Alliance Exploration Project in 2019. Since that time geological mapping, geochemical sampling, and geophysical surveys have been completed that further delineate the target area. The exploration target at Jasper Canyon consists of the faulted off, upper portion of the Pinto Valley-Copper Cities copper porphyry system that now lies beneath shallow post-mineral cover rocks. A three-hole reconnaissance drill program is currently underway.

The Malone project is situated in the Malone mining district of southwestern New Mexico. The district, historically known for precious metals mining, is comprised of Precambrian age granitoids cut by Laramide age dikes, and unconformably overlain by tilted, post-mineral volcanic and sedimentary rocks. The precious metals mineralization at Malone is interpreted as the upper, distal expressions of a porphyry copper system that is now structurally rotated on its side. Recently completed, South32 RSA funded work consisting of geological mapping, property-wide geochemical surveys, and a 25 line/kilometer IP/MT geophysical survey, has delineated several target areas for drill testing. Final drill permits are expected in Q2 of 2021.

South32 RSA. In November of 2020, EMX and South32 executed a two-year extension to the RSA agreement originally executed in 2018 (see EMX news release dated December 6, 2018 for commercial details of the RSA agreement). Per the RSA, South32 is funding generative exploration in an Area of Interest ("AOI") consisting of Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah. New projects identified from generative RSA work may be designated as Alliance Exploration Properties ("AEP") for follow up exploration, and those projects with the highest merit elevated to Designated Projects ("DP") status (i.e., as in the case of the Copper Springs, Jasper Canyon, and Malone projects). To date, the alliance with South32 has advanced more than fourteen projects.

As part of the RSA, the Midnight Juniper project was selected as a DP in early 2020 and a three-hole, 2,048 meter, drill program was completed later in the year. The drilling targeted a porphyry copper system under post-mineral volcanic cover rocks northwest of the Morenci open pit copper mine. Flanking the covered area on three sides are multiple outcrops of distal styles of porphyry-related alteration consisting of Mn-oxide-Pb-Zn-Cu-Ag mineralization as veins, breccias, and metasomatic replacements. Two of the three holes intersected target rocks, but did not intersect significant levels of alteration, and the third hole did not reach target rocks. South32 has returned 100% interest in the project to EMX. In the Company's view, the target area remains open and the source of the distal, porphyry-related styles of alteration remains unexplained. The Company believes Midnight Juniper still has significant upside exploration potential, and the project is now available for partnership.

Update on Copper Projects Optioned to Zacapa. Reconnaissance drill programs have been approved for the Red Top and Ripsey West projects optioned to Zacapa Resources Ltd. ("Zacapa") (see EMX news release dated March 24, 2021). At Red Top, an initial two-hole drill program is planned to test for a moderately tilted porphyry copper system occurring below an area of outcropping advanced argillic and quartz-sericite-pyrite alteration. A three hole reconnaissance drill program at Ripsey West will test for porphyry alteration and mineralization in fault displaced structural blocks beneath post-mineral gravels. Drill permits and commencement of the programs for both projects are expected in Q2.

Royalty Generation. EMX's generative teams are continuing to acquire new base metals royalty generation properties in the western U.S. EMX currently has thirteen copper focused, base metals projects that are currently available for partnership. See www.EMXroyalty.com for more information.

Comments on Nearby Mines and Deposits. Reference to nearby mines or analogous deposits provides geologic context for EMX's projects, but this is not necessarily indicative that EMX's projects host similar mineralization.

Qualified Person. Michael P. Sheehan, CPG, a Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101 and employee of the Company, has reviewed, verified and approved the above technical disclosure contained in this news release.

About EMX. EMX is a precious and base metals royalty company. EMX's investors are provided with discovery, development, and commodity price optionality, while limiting exposure to risks inherent to operating companies. The Company's common shares are listed on the NYSE American Exchange and the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol EMX.

For further information contact:

David M. Cole

President and Chief Executive Officer

Phone: (303) 979-6666

Dave@EMXroyalty.com

Scott Close

Director of Investor Relations

Phone: (303) 973-8585

SClose@EMXroyalty.com

Isabel Belger

Investor Relations (Europe)

Phone: +49 178 4909039

IBelger@EMXroyalty.com

Neither the 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 Statements

This news release may contain "forward looking statements" that reflect the Company's current expectations and projections about its future results. These forward-looking statements may include statements regarding perceived merit of properties, exploration results and budgets, mineral reserves and resource estimates, work programs, capital expenditures, timelines, strategic plans, market prices for precious and base metal, or other statements that are not statements of fact. When used in this news release, words such as "estimate," "intend," "expect," "anticipate," "will", "believe", "potential" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, which, by their very nature, are not guarantees of the Company's future operational or financial performance, and are subject to risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause the Company's actual results, performance, prospects or opportunities to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements. These risks, uncertainties and factors may include, but are not limited to unavailability of financing, failure to identify commercially viable mineral reserves, fluctuations in the market valuation for commodities, difficulties in obtaining required approvals for the development of a mineral project, increased regulatory compliance costs, expectations of project funding by joint venture partners and other factors.

Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this news release or as of the date otherwise specifically indicated herein. Due to risks and uncertainties, including the risks and uncertainties identified in this news release, and other risk factors and forward-looking statements listed in the Company's MD&A for the year ended December 31, 2020 (the "MD&A"), and the most recently filed Annual Information Form ("AIF") for the year ended December 31, 2020, actual events may differ materially from current expectations. More information about the Company, including the MD&A, the AIF and financial statements of the Company, is available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and on the SEC's EDGAR website at www.sec.gov.

Figure 1. EMX Western U.S. Portfolio April 2021

To view an enhanced version of Figure 1, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/1508/82557_e59fb9f844cf09af_002full.jpg

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/82557


The Lifestyle ShoppingFest concluded successfully yesterday (2 May). Happy shoppers are pictured visiting the last day of the fair to buy their favourite products.



"Food Street" introduced local and global delicacies.



Fun-filled events were held during the fair including cooking demonstrations by master chefs, rope-skipping and smart bidding auctions.

HONG KONG, May 3, 2021 - (ACN Newswire) - The HKTDC Lifestyle ShoppingFest, a brand-new public fair organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), came to a successful close yesterday (2 May). The fair kicked off on 28 April (Wednesday) and ran over five days at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC), featuring 430 exhibitors and attracting more than 55,000 public visitors.HKTDC Deputy Executive Director Benjamin Chau said: "The Lifestyle ShoppingFest is the first physical show organised by the HKTDC since the pandemic began early last year. We implemented a series of anti-pandemic measures to safeguard the health and safety of participants. We were pleased to see a positive response from exhibitors and the public, reflecting the fact that physical shows are irreplaceable. The HKTDC responded to the needs of Hong Kong enterprises, bringing them additional selling opportunities during a challenging period, while the public were provided with an enjoyable shopping experience."Apart from the Hong Kong Book Fair and concurrent fairs running in mid-July, the HKTDC will also host several trade fairs including the Hong Kong International Jewellery Show and Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show from 25 to 29 July, and the International Sourcing Show from 26 to 29 July. The three fairs will be the first concurrent physical trade fairs to be staged by the HKTDC since the pandemic. It is expected that the three fairs can create synergies across industries, enhancing sourcing efficiency and creating more opportunities for cross-industry exhibitors.Physical fair provides boost for businessThis five-day Lifestyle ShoppingFest provided a valuable opportunity for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to understand more about consumers' preferences. The HKTDC conducted a survey to gauge the views of exhibitors, finding that 75% of exhibitors agreed that physical shows can help to boost their businesses.Richard Leung, Director of the Ballerina Watch Company Limited, said: "The pandemic has inevitably decelerated the economy and had an impact on exports and local retail. The Lifestyle ShoppingFest is a timely opportunity to provide a solid selling platform for various industries as the pandemic subsides. Consumers of high-end products such as jewellery and watches prefer examining tangible products, which explains the importance of physical fairs." He added that as the pandemic comes under control, sales of food and hygiene products will see a brisk recovery, followed by a progressive resumption of sales for high-end consumer products.It was the first time for optical agent Opticon Ltd to join a local public fair. Christopher Chan, Director of the company, said, "We focused on commercial clients in the past, but we are now looking to explore the retail market. The people flow and atmosphere at the Lifestyle ShoppingFest was good, helping us to get to know more about consumers' preferences which in turn will give us more confidence to build up our retail business."OMG Design, the sole agent of Israel suitcase brand Rollink in Asia, promoted its feature products at the fair having seen strong growth in consumer demand for household products amid the pandemic. Andy Cheung, the company's Business Development Manager, said: "The Lifestyle ShoppingFest showcased a wide range of products that attracted local consumers from different age groups. We adjusted our marketing strategy, offering special prices to attract visitors at the fair. We successfully sold more than 100 Rollink suitcase at a discount of 45%, earning revenue of approximately HK$80,000." Mr Cheung also met a jewellery industry buyer and wine supplier interested in using the company's suitcases for product packaging and corporate gifts. He hopes to close more business deals after the fair.To help exhibitors grasp online business opportunities, the KOL Live Station was set up at the fair. The HKTDC partnered with the team from Bonjour Hong Kong to introduce a range of highlighted products, and individual exhibitors also got the chance to present their own products at the Live Station. A series of live-broadcast sessions featured products from nearly 60 exhibitors, with some of the products made available for online sale at the Bonjour HK Mall. The HKTDC is also collaborating with e-commerce platform Boutir to offer exhibitors the chance to open an online shop with a three-month free service to help them get established as an online retailer.Gourmet products remain popular with publicA survey of visitors to the fair showed the four most popular product categories to be food and drink (75%), healthcare and sanitary products (20%), houseware (20%), as well as luxury products such as jewellery and watches (18%). The reasons visitors found the show attractive included special prices and discount offers (65%), product quality (61%), and the variety of products offered (57%).Of those surveyed, 82% of visitors expressed satisfaction with the health and safety measures put in place at the show, including reminders on social distancing, the cleanliness of public areas, and minimising the exchange of cash at the event.Websites- Lifestyle ShoppingFest: https://lsf.hktdc.com/en- HKTDC Media Room: http://mediaroom.hktdc.com/en- Photo download: https://bit.ly/2PFdk0LAbout the HKTDCThe Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly SMEs, in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus. Follow us on Twitter @hktdc and LinkedInMedia enquiriesPlease contact the HKTDC's Communications & Public Affairs Department:Janet Chan, Tel: +852 2584 4369, Email: janet.ch.chan@hktdc.orgSource: HKTDCCopyright 2021 ACN Newswire . All rights reserved.
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 3, 2021 / IMC International Mining Corp. (CSE:IMCX)(OTCQB:IMIMF)(FRA:3MX) (the "Company" or "IMC") is pleased to update the investing public regarding the Company's planned 2021 exploration program on the Thane property, the closing of the last tranche of the Company's financing, a proposed name change to Interra Copper Corp. and a new marketing effort including a new website, rebranding and an advanced online footprint.

The Company is continuing to advance the diamond drilling, induced polarization surveys (IP), geological mapping and sampling program on its 100% owned, 206.58 square kilometer Thane property in north-central British Columbia. The 2,400 metre drill program in 8 drill holes has been designed to test high priority targets at the Cathedral Area, which were defined during last years' surface sampling and IP program. In addition to drilling, the company will also be undertaking geological mapping, sampling and IP surveying in other areas of the property, to advance known areas of copper-gold mineralization. The Company is on target to commence drilling in early July.

The Company has also applied for a permit to build a haul road from the staging area, located at the edge of the Cathedral Area, to the drill sites. The completion of a haul road will expand the available months for drilling. The property has good access to water and power.

The Company has registered and has applied to change its name to Interra Copper Corp to better reflect the dominate commodity identified on our property. All trading symbols on the CSE, Frankfurt and OTCQB exchanges will remain the same. In addition, the company has engaged a marketing company who is in the process of rebranding the company, including a new website, to better reflect the role copper is and will play in the new energy revolution to electric vehicles and energy storage.

The change of name and new website is expected to be finalized shortly after the Company closes the final tranche of its financing on or about the second week of May 2021.

Dave McMillan, Interim CEO stated: "We have identified high priority zones defined by IP chargeability highs with supporting copper and gold mineralization from both soil and rock samples, and we are excited to be able to test the depth potential of these targets by diamond drilling this summer. Our team has developed a work flow that will utilize a portable XRF with the goal of increasing the turnaround time for obtaining reliable geochemical results. Although all samples will be submitted to ALS laboratories for multi-element and gold analysis, the infield analysis will allow the company to prioritize additional drilling past the planned 8 drill holes."

Further details and past press releases are available on the Company's website, www.imcxmining.com.

ON BEHALF OF IMC INTERNATIONAL MINING CORP.

David McMillan

Interim Chief Executive Officer and Director

Telephone: +1-604-588-2110

Investor Relations:

Email: ir@imcxmining.com

Telephone: +1-604-588-2110

Website: https://imcxmining.com

ABOUT IMC INTERNATIONAL MINING CORP.

IMC is a junior exploration and development company focused on creating shareholder value through the advancements of its current assets that include the Cathedral Property in north-central British Columbia, and the Bullard Pass Property in Arizona. Utilizing its heavily experienced management team, IMC continues to source and evaluate assets to further generate shareholder value.

The Cathedral property covers approximately 206 km2 (50,904 acres) and is located in the Quesnel Terrane of north-central British Columbia. The northern part of the Quesnel Terrane extends from south of the Mt. Milligan Mine northward to the Kemess Mine, with the Cathedral property located midway between these two copper-gold porphyry deposits. The Cathedral property includes several highly prospective mineralized areas identified to date, including the 'Cathedral Area' on which the Company's exploration is currently focused.

Forward-Looking Information: This news release includes certain "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. These forward- looking statements are made as of the date of this news release. Forward-looking statements are frequently, but not always, identified by words such as "expects", "anticipates", "believes", "plans", "projects", "intends", "estimates", "envisages", "potential", "possible", "strategy", "goals", "objectives", or variations thereof or stating that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative of any of these terms and similar expressions.

Forward-looking statements in this news release relate to future events or future performance and reflect current estimates, predictions, expectations or beliefs regarding future events and include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to: (i) completion of the Offering; (ii) receipt of regulatory acceptance for the Offering; (iii) the Company's intentions to use the gross proceeds from the Offering to fund exploration programs on its Thane Property in north-central British Columbia; (iv) the Company's intention to acquire further mineral properties; and (v) the Company's business and plans, including with respect to undertaking further acquisition and carrying out exploration activities in respect of its mineral projects. All forward-looking statements are based on the Company's current beliefs as well as various assumptions made by the Company and information currently available to the Company. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct, and actual results and future events could differ materially. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements in this news release. Forward-looking statements reflect the beliefs, opinions and projections on the date the statements are made and are based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by the respective parties, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties and contingencies. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements and the parties have made assumptions and estimates based on or related to many of these factors. Such factors include, without limitation, the Company's business and financial condition potentially being materially adversely affected by the outbreak of epidemics, pandemics or other health crises such as COVID-19, and by reactions by government and private actors to such outbreaks; risks to employee health and safety as a result of the outbreak of epidemics, pandemics or other health crises such as COVID-19, that may result in a slowdown or temporary suspension of operations by the Company; the risks that the Offering may not complete as contemplated (or at all), the risks related to the Company's ability to obtain necessary regulatory approvals for the Offering; the speculative nature of the Company's business; the Company's formative stage of development; the Company's financial position; conclusions of future economic evaluations; business integration risks; fluctuations in the securities market; that the Company's plans and prospects will vary from those stated in this news release; that the Company does not complete any further acquisitions; that the Company does not carry out exploration activities in respect of its mineral projects as planned (or at all); and that 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 in this news release. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in the forward- looking statements are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. All forward-looking statements in this news release are made as of the date of this release.

The Canadian Securities Exchange has not reviewed, approved or disapproved of the contents of this news release.

SOURCE: IMC International Mining Corp.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/643773/IMC-International-Mining-Corp-Announces-Proposed-Name-Change-to-Interra-Copper-Corp-Rebranding-Initiative-and-Exploration-Update
TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / May 3, 2021 / Idaho Champion Gold Mines Canada Inc. (CSE:ITKO)(OTCQB:GLDRF)(FSE:1QB1)("Idaho Champion" or the "Company") is pleased to announce a Canadian Securities Exchange ("CSE")-approved early exercise warrant incentive program ("Warrant Program") intended to encourage the early exercise of the Company's 21,457,588 outstanding purchase warrants ("Warrants") with a strike price of $0.15.

The Warrant Program will be open for a 30-day period ("Exercise Period") and is only for Warrants priced at $0.15 with an expiry of May 17, 2024, June 7, 2024, August 27, 2024, February 14, 2025, February 26, 2025 and March 6, 2025.

Under the Warrant Program, each Warrant that is exercised during the Exercise Period will receive one (1) new common share purchase warrant ("Incentive Warrant"). Each Incentive Warrant will entitle the holder to purchase one common share of the Company ("Common Shares") for a period of five (5) years from the date of issuance of the Incentive Warrant at a price of $0.25.

If, following four months and one day after the issue date, the closing price of the Company's Common Shares on the CSE is at least $0.50 or higher for a period of not less than twenty (20) consecutive trading days, the Company may accelerate the expiry time of the Incentive Warrants to 5:00 p.m. (eastern time) thirty (30) calendar days from the date written notice is provided by the Corporation to the Incentive Warrant holder.

The Company will use the proceeds received as a result of the Warrant Program to fund the 2021 Exploration program at the Company's Baner and Champagne gold projects.

If Warrants are not exercised prior to the end of the applicable Exercise Period or if a Warrant holder does not qualify to receive Incentive Warrants, the Warrants will remain outstanding and continue to be exercisable on the same terms applicable to such Warrants as they existed prior to the Program.

The terms and conditions of the Warrant Program and the method of exercising Warrants pursuant to the Warrant Program will be set forth in a letter to be delivered to the registered address of each Warrant holder and by email. Warrant holders who wish to participate in the Warrant Program will agree to exercise their Warrants and deliver payment and other necessary documents in consideration of the issuance by the Company of the Incentive Warrants.

Only holders of Warrants who are "accredited investors" under applicable Canadian securities laws or who provide satisfactory evidence that they meet the requirements of an alternative exemption from the prospectus requirements of applicable Canadian securities laws may participate in the Warrant Program.

The Incentive Warrants will be subject to a four-month and one-day hold period under applicable Canadian securities laws. No fractional Incentive Warrants will be issued and the number of Incentive Warrants to be issued shall be rounded down to the nearest whole number.

About Idaho Champion Gold Mines Inc.

Idaho Champion is a discovery-focused gold exploration company that is committed to advancing its 100%-owned highly prospective mineral properties located in Idaho, United States. The Company's shares trade on the CSE under the trading symbol "ITKO", on the OTCQB under the trading symbol "GLDRF", and on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange under the symbol "1QB1". Idaho Champion is vested in Idaho with the Baner Project in Idaho County, the Champagne Project located in Butte County near Arco, and four cobalt properties in Lemhi County in the Idaho Cobalt Belt. Idaho Champion strives to be a responsible environmental steward, stakeholder and a contributing citizen to the local communities where it operates. Idaho Champion takes its social license seriously, employing local community members and service providers at its operations whenever possible.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

"Jonathan Buick"

Jonathan Buick, President and CEO

For further information, please visit the Company's SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com or the Company's corporate website at www.idahochamp.com.

For further information please contact:

Nicholas Konkin, Marketing and Communications

Phone: (416) 477- 7771 ext. 205

Email: nkonkin@idahochamp.com

THIS PRESS RELEASE DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER TO SELL OR THE SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO BUY ANY SECURITIES IN ANY JURISDICTION, NOR SHALL THERE BE ANY OFFER, SALE, OR SOLICITATION OF SECURITIES IN ANY STATE IN THE UNITED STATES IN WHICH SUCH OFFER, SALE, OR SOLICITATION WOULD BE UNLAWFUL.

Cautionary Statements

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its regulation services provider has reviewed or accepted responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release This press release may include forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation, concerning the business of the Company. Forward-looking information is based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by the management of the Company, including suggested strike extension. Although the Company believes that the expectations and assumptions on which such forward-looking information is based on are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking information because the Company can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release. The Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update publicly any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, other than as required by applicable securities laws.

SOURCE: Idaho Champion Gold Mines Canada Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/643786/Idaho-Champion-Gold-Announces-Early-Exercise-Warrant-Incentive-Program
Busan Mayor Park Heong-joon speaks in a session of the city council, April 26. Yonhap



By Bahk Eun-ji



Busan Mayor Park Heong-joon has expressed his desire for Busan to host a museum for the donated art collection of late Samsung Chairman Lee Kun-hee.



The wish came after President Moon Jae-in ordered his aides to review a plan to set up a separate place to exhibit the 23,000 pieces of art, rather than dividing them up among multiple museums and exhibition halls.



On Sunday, Park posted a message on Facebook saying the tentatively named "Lee Kun-hee Museum" will become a superb tourist attraction.



"It is said that an art museum to show Chairman Lee's donated collection will be built, and news reports say that museum will be in Seoul, although the bereaved family hasn't agreed," he wrote.



He said that most of the country's cultural infrastructure is concentrated in Seoul, saying Seoul and the surrounding area already have Samsung-related museums  Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art and the Ho-Am Art Museum  as well as many more public and private ones.



"To meet the late chairman's desire to improve the nation's culture, it would make sense to build the museum in the southern part of the country, not in the metropolitan area," Park said, adding that Busan, an international tourist city, has already set up a plan to attract world-class art galleries to the city.



Park pledged to make the museum, if set up in the port city, a world-class art museum. "If it is built in the Seoul metropolitan area, it will be one of many art museums. But if it is built in Busan, it will be a must-visit attraction for tourists visiting the city," he wrote.



At the end of last month, Lee's bereaved family announced the donation of some 23,000 pieces of art to state museums. The government, in accordance with Moon's order, is discussing either preparing separate exhibition halls within the existing museums, or establishing a new museum dedicated to Lee's collection.


Mining crews deliver a record 409,000 tonnes of ore grading 5.71% copper in April, including 121,000 tonnes grading 8.40% copper from the centre of the Kakula Mine

Pre-production ore stockpiles now hold three million tonnes grading 4.74% copper, containing more than 140,000 tonnes of copper

Kamoa-Kakula's first phase, 3.8-Mtpa concentrator 98% complete, with advanced-stage commissioning underway

Phase 2 expansion to 7.6 Mtpa progressing well toward a Q3 2022 start-up; study work underway for Phase 3 expansion to 11.4 Mtpa

Agreement signed for an additional 162 MW of hydropower, providing Kamoa-Kakula ample power for future expansions and smelting operations - while supporting the DRC government to bring clean electricity to its people

Executive Co-Chair Robert Friedland to participate in a virtual fireside discussion at the 2021 Goldman Sachs Copper Day on May 5

Kolwezi, Democratic Republic of Congo--(Newsfile Corp. - May 3, 2021) - Ivanhoe Mines (TSX: IVN) (OTCQX: IVPAF) Co-Chairs Robert Friedland and Yufeng "Miles" Sun are pleased to announce accelerated construction and commissioning progress at the Phase 1 Kamoa-Kakula concentrator plant. The target date for C4 commissioning (milling of ore and first copper concentrate production) has been advanced to the end May or early June -several months ahead of schedule.

Overall construction of the project's first phase 3.8-Mtpa concentrator plant is essentially complete, with the majority of the C1 (construction complete) certificates signed off. The plant is energized with permanent power and C2 commissioning, which involves electrical, control and instrumentation checks, is well advanced. Water is being circulated in certain areas of the plant, marking the beginning of C3 commissioning. C3 commissioning involves checking for leaks, certain instrument calibration, control loop checks, and is the precursor to C4 commissioning (hot commissioning), which involves processing ore through the plant to produce a copper concentrate.

Overall plant commissioning is running well ahead of schedule, with the first ore expected to be added to the mill by the end of May 2021. Lower-grade ore will be fed into the plant during the C4 commissioning phase, to ensure plant performance and copper recovery are satisfactory before increasing the head grade.

The 409,000 tonnes mined in April comprised 357,000 tonnes grading 5.70% copper from the Kakula Mine, including 121,000 tonnes grading 8.40% copper from the mine's high-grade centre, and 51,000 tonnes grading 5.85% copper from the Kansoko Mine.

The project's pre-production surface stockpiles now contain approximately 3.0 million tonnes of high-grade and medium-grade ore at an estimated blended average of 4.74% copper. Kamoa-Kakula now has reached the 3.0-million-tonne target of mined high-grade and medium-grade ore, several months ahead of the timeline estimated in the 2020 pre-feasibility study.

Contained copper in the stockpiles increased by approximately 23,000 tonnes in April - to a cumulative total of more than 140,000 tonnes (the current copper price is approximately US$9,950 a tonne).

Some of the approximately 7,000 employees and contractors who helped to build the Phase 1, 3.8-Mtpa concentrator plant ahead of schedule and within budget.





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April's underground mine development shatters all previous records with advancement of more than 3,625 metres

Kamoa-Kakula also set another monthly mine development record in April, with an advancement of more than 3,625 metres, bringing total underground development to approximately 42.2 kilometres - more than 15 kilometres ahead of schedule.

Drift-and-fill stoping operations are progressing well at the Kakula Mine, with the majority of the ore production coming from stoping operations and the remainder coming from mine development activities. Drift-and-fill stoping is a highly-productive mining method of extracting underground ore, where a single tunnel, known as a stope, is extracted leaving an open void that is subsequently backfilled to allow for the extraction of the neighbouring stope in sequence. The backfill plant, which will mix tailings from the processing plant with cement to produce paste backfill, will begin pumping backfill to the underground operations in July.

Mark Farren, Kamoa Copper's CEO, remarked: "April was another month of great performance by our mining teams, who continue to produce well above plan. We now have reached our 3.0-million-tonne pre-production stockpile target. This stockpile likely is to grow further as our monthly mining rate currently exceeds the Phase 1 milling rate, and only should be drawn down once the Phase 2 concentrator begins operation in mid-2022.

"Even more exciting is the fact that we have been able to significantly bring forward the Phase 1 concentrator commissioning. We now expect to produce our first copper concentrate by the end of May or early June, months ahead of the original schedule.

"We have fantastic people on site, who continue to achieve very tough milestones. We expect to see the same kind of progress during our next challenge of ramping up the plant to nameplate capacity and design recovery. Many of the key contractors have been retained for Phase 2 to ensure continuity and to carry over learnings from Phase 1. Phase 2 construction is moving along nicely and is tracking slightly ahead of plan."

Mr. Friedland added: "We are proud of the entire Kamoa-Kakula team for their remarkable dedication and accomplishments to deliver our Phase 1 production ahead of schedule and on budget, despite the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic. We would especially like to extend our deepest gratitude to the Kamoa-Kakula leadership team. Their unwavering passion, vision and commitment to excellence is critical to the ongoing transformation and growth of our business.

"The start of production at Kakula marks the beginning of a multi-generational copper mining district, consisting of numerous high-grade mines. We now turn our focus to scaling up this expansive copper region in a manner that is ethically- and socially-responsible, and setting a new global benchmark for the elimination of greenhouse gases in the production of copper that the world urgently needs."

Robert Friedland to participate in a virtual fireside chat at the 2021 Goldman Sachs Copper Day on May 5 at 11:45 AM ET

Mr. Friedland will discuss Kamoa-Kakula's expansion plans, the company's Western Foreland exploration plans, his views on the global copper market and copper's role in the green energy transition. He also will provide his thoughts on the inevitable differential pricing for all commodities based on their ESG production characteristics as blockchain technology is integrated and smarter markets are established. The Goldman Sachs Copper Day conference is by invitation only for institutional clients.

"Given that Goldman Sachs' metals strategists recently called copper the "new oil" and predicted copper prices could reach US$15,000 a tonne by 2025, I expect it to be a lively discussion," said Mr. Friedland.

Members of Ivanhoe's and Kamoa-Kakula's multinational senior management teams at Kakula's Phase 1 concentrator's pneumatic control valves. L-R: Abraham Li (Director & Deputy General Manager, Kamoa Copper); Steve Amos (Head of Projects, Kamoa Copper); Annebel Oosthuizen (Executive, Finance, Kamoa Copper); Ben Munanga (Chairman, Kamoa Copper); Marna Cloete (President and CFO, Ivanhoe Mines); Mark Farren (CEO, Kamoa Copper); Rochelle de Villiers (Co-CFO, Kamoa Copper); Minty Cai (Co-CFO, Kamoa Copper); and Olivier Binyingo (VP Public Affairs DRC, Ivanhoe Mines).





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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 early average feed grade of more than 6.0% copper, ramping up to 7.6 Mtpa in Q3 2022.

Phase 1 is expected to produce approximately 200,000 tonnes of copper per year, and Phases 1 and 2 combined are forecast to produce approximately 400,000 tonnes of copper per year. Based on independent benchmarking, the project's phased expansion scenario to 19 Mtpa would position Kamoa-Kakula as the world's second-largest copper mining complex, with peak annual copper production of more than 800,000 tonnes.

Given the current copper price environment, Ivanhoe and its partner Zijin are exploring the acceleration of the Kamoa-Kakula Phase 3 concentrator expansion from 7.6 Mtpa to 11.4 Mtpa, which may be fed from expanded mining operations at Kansoko, or new mining areas at Kamoa North (including the Bonanza Zone) and Kakula West.

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 Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (20%).

A 2020 independent audit of Kamoa-Kakula's greenhouse gas intensity metrics performed by Hatch Ltd. of Mississauga, Canada, confirmed that the project will be among the world's lowest greenhouse gas emitters per unit of copper produced.

Kamoa-Kakula is connected to one of the world's greenest power grids, including power supplied from the newly upgraded Mwadingusha hydropower plant.





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Pre-production ore stockpiles total 3.0 million tonnes grading 4.74% copper



Chart 1: Cumulative tonnes and grade of pre-production ore stockpiles at the Kakula and Kansoko mines - May 2020 to April 2021.





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Chart 2: Growth in contained copper in pre-production ore stockpiles at the Kakula and Kansoko mines - May 2020 to April 2021.





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Chart 3: Growth in contained copper in surface stockpiles at Kamoa-Kakula to July 2021. Dotted lines denote projections from the 2020 pre-feasibility study.





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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 approximately 1.64 million tonnes grading an estimated 4.93% copper. Additional pre-production ore stockpiles are located at the Kakula southern decline (987,000 tonnes at a blended grade of 4.75% copper) and the Kansoko decline (339,000 tonnes at blended grade of 3.78% copper).

Low-grade ore from surface stockpiles being conveyed to the run-of-mine ore stockpile, to be used in early commissioning of the concentrator plant.





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Kakula's main pre-production stockpiles at the northern declines. The blended stockpiles currently contain approximately 1.64 million tonnes grading 4.93% copper. The run-of-mine stockpile in the previous picture is circled in red.





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Watch a new Kamoa-Kakula fly-over video showcasing the impressive progress made over the last month: https://vimeo.com/544085443/17f43e0193

Kakula southern decline blended ore stockpiles containing approximately 987,000 tonnes grading 4.75% copper (consisting of 448,000 high-grade tonnes @ 6.55% copper and 538,000 medium grade tonnes @ 3.25% copper).





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Kansoko decline blended ore stockpiles containing 339,000 tonnes grading 3.78% copper (consisting of 83,000 high-grade tonnes @ 6.19% copper and 255,000 medium-grade tonnes @ 3.00% copper).





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Figure 1: Underground development completed at Kakula Mine to April 30, 2021 (in black).





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Construction of the initial 3.8-Mtpa concentrator plant 98% complete; final checks and testing in progress

Overall construction of the project's first phase, 3.8-Mtpa concentrator plant and associated facilities is advancing rapidly and is approximately 98% complete (as of end of April), up from 92% complete at the end of March. The concentrator plant is essentially mechanically complete, with first copper concentrate production scheduled for later this month or early June.

Painting of pipes is underway at Kakula's Phase 1, 3.8-Mtpa concentrator plant. Foundations for the Phase 2 flotation cells and ball mills are on the right.





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Structural steel erection, platework installation and piping and valve installation for the first concentrator plant is effectively complete, as is electrical, controls and instrumentation installation.

The main mine 220-kilovolt (kV) Kamoa Consumer Substation (KCS) has been energized on grid power, as has the 33kV KCS substation. The main plant 33kV substation and all the plant medium-voltage and low-voltage substations also have been energized, and the plant now is electrically live.

Construction complete (C1) sign off is nearing completion with approximately 75% of the certificates signed off and handed over from construction to commissioning. C2 (pre commissioning) commissioning is well underway with some areas (crushing and screening, milling) more than 90% complete. Early C3 activities (checking for leaks, certain instrument calibration, control-loop checks) have started with water being circulated around certain areas in the plant.

Electrical installation at the backfill plant is ongoing and the backfill plant is scheduled to be completed in July, well before paste backfill is required for mining operations.

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 tailings storage facility is progressing well and is scheduled to be completed on time to receive tailings from the processing plant.

Phase 1 concentrator plant now energized with permanent hydroelectricity.





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A 3D overhead illustration of the finished Phase 1, 3.8-Mtpa concentrator plant. The picture below shows that construction is essentially complete. Foundations for the Phase 2 concentrator ball mills and flotation cells are circled in red.





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Kelebogile Choku, Process Engineer with DRA, overseeing the commissioning of the new crushing and screening plant vibrating screen. DRA, a diversified global engineering group headquartered in Perth, Australia, is the Engineering, Procurement and Construction Management (EPCM) contractor for Kamoa-Kakula's Phase 1 construction.





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Kembo Mzemba, Instrument Technician with T3 Projects, wiring a control panel at the high-pressure-grinding-rolls feed bin.





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Commissioning of the crushing and screening plant vibrating screen. L-R: Ernest de la Hunt (Mechanical Engineer, DRA); Morne Kruger (Project Manager, DRA); Kelebogile Choku (Process Engineer, DRA); Aldo Groenewald (Commissioning Manager, DRA); and Thys de Beer (Senior Project Manager, DRA).





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Newly-trained operators at the Outotec concentrate filtration plant. L-R: Prince Mwenilungena; Teddy Kangwe Kangombe; Sakisa Mazau Papy; Katsmiza Tshisonk; Kazadi Mwyombe Jordan; and Makungu Mushika Idris.





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Earthworks and civil works progressing well for the second 3.8-Mtpa concentrator plant, with the first structural steel expected on site in June

Construction of the second 3.8-Mtpa concentrator plant (Phase 2) is progressing well with the current focus on earthworks and civil works. Both earthworks and civil works are tracking slightly ahead of schedule.

Engineering and procurement activities are progressing well. The first two shipments of structural steel and the first three shipments of platework have left the fabricator and are on route to site. The first steel and platework is expected on site in June 2021. The first of the long-lead items of equipment (cone crusher) has arrived on site.

The structural steel, mechanical, piping and plate erection contract has been awarded and the tender document of the electrical, control and instrumentation installation contract will be issued shortly.

Foundations for the Phase 2 flotation cells advancing rapidly.





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Watch a short time-lapse video of a day's construction of the foundations of the Phase 2 concentrator flotation cells: https://vimeo.com/542354139/4847e933e8

Construction of foundations for the Phase 2 ball mills.





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Construction of foundations for the Phase 2 high pressure grinding rolls.





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Four new large-scale disk filters from FLSmidth, a Danish multinational engineering company, installed in the backfill plant. The filters are used for tailings filtration prior to mixing.





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Kamoa-Kakula close to finalizing agreements for the sale of its copper concentrates during Phase 1 operations

Kakula is expected to produce an extremely high-grade, clean copper concentrate (containing over 55% copper) that will be highly coveted by smelters around the world. Metallurgical test work indicates that the Kakula concentrates contain extremely low arsenic levels by world standards - approximately 0.01%.

Offtake agreements for copper concentrates produced during Phase 1 operations are nearing final, and include arrangements to utilize local smelter capacity to produce blister copper ingots, and also to export concentrates directly.

Upon receipt of final documentation and board approvals from Kamoa-Kakula's joint-venture partners, as well as from Kamoa Copper SA, Ivanhoe plans to issue a news release providing details of the marketing arrangements.

Contractors constructing a massive parking lot for the transport trucks that will haul Kamoa-Kakula's copper concentrates to smelters in the DRC and to ports for shipping to international markets.





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Kamoa-Kakula's main 220-kV substation energized with clean, renewable hydropower; upgrading work at the Mwadingusha hydropower plant nearing completion

In December 2020, the 35-kilometre-long double circuit 220-kilovolt (kV) power line to Kamoa-Kakula was connected to the national electrical grid through the New Western Dispatch substation in Kolwezi. Kamoa-Kakula's main 220-kV substation was energized with 220-kV power from the national power grid on March 25 and the first of two 33-kV transformers on March 29.

Three of the six new turbines at the Mwadingusha hydropower plant now have been synchronized to the national electrical grid, with each generating unit producing approximately 13 megawatts of power. The completion and commissioning of the hydropower plant's remaining generating units, in sequence, is in progress.

In April, Kamoa-Kakula's energy company signed an agreement with the DRC's state-owned power company to upgrade Turbine 5 at the Inga II hydropower complex. Turbine 5 is expected to produce 162 megawatts of renewable hydropower, providing the Kamoa-Kakula Copper Complex and associated smelter with abundant, sustainable electricity for future expansions.

The Mwadingusha hydropower plant soon is expected to deliver 78 megawatts of clean power to the national electrical grid.





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Turbine 5 (penstock circled in red) at the Inga II hydropower complex is expected to generate an additional 162 megawatts of clean power after upgrading.





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COVID-19 prevention and treatment initiatives successfully maintained, with focus on personnel staying vigilant about COVID safety protocols

Kamoa-Kakula has successfully focused on prevention, preparation and mitigation in managing the risks associated with COVID-19. Large-scale testing, combined with focused preventative measures, ensured that positive cases were quickly identified, isolated and treated, with cross contamination kept to a minimum. Maintaining this high standard of risk management remains a daily focus, to prevent future cases.

The Kamoa COVID-19 hospital continues to treat patients when required, as construction progresses for the expansion and upgrade of the primary healthcare wing of the hospital. Kamoa-Kakula's highly experienced doctors and nurses apply the latest medical treatments, supported by a world-leading emergency response and paramedic team.

As the pandemic evolves, the medical team at Kamoa-Kakula continues to review and update its risk mitigation protocols, while ensuring that new medical advances are investigated and applied to protect the health and safety of the workforce and community members.

Contractor Elie Ngox Tbhisola working on the new primary healthcare wing of the Kamoa hospital.





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Overhead view of the Kakula Village workers' accommodations at dusk.





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Kamoa-Kakula constructing an additional 100 fish ponds to expand sustainable aquaculture for increased food security and economic prosperity for local residents

Kamoa-Kakula is constructing another 100 fish ponds in the area surrounding the Kamoa-Kakula Mine, bringing the current number of fish ponds to 137. An additional 25 fish ponds are planned to be constructed, bringing the combined total to 162. The project is another Kamoa-Kakula Sustainable Livelihoods initiative to further increase food security and economic prosperity in the region.

20 new companies have been created for local ownership of these additional ponds, with each company comprising five residents from local communities.

The Kamoa-Kakula Sustainable Livelihoods Project, established in 2012 by Ivanhoe Mines with the support of U.K.-based Eco-Livelihoods, is significantly contributing to the economic empowerment of residents in 14 communities in the vicinity of Kamoa-Kakula.

Watch a short video of ongoing construction work at the 100 new fish ponds: https://vimeo.com/542348642/9db311dae7

Serge Lumbal, a cook at the Kamoa staff kitchen, with fresh vegetables produced from local community farms - one of Kamoa-Kakula's local procurement initiatives.





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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 regarding the stockpiles in this news release have been reviewed and approved by George Gilchrist, who is considered, by virtue of his education, experience and professional association, a Qualified Person under the terms of NI 43-101. Mr. Gilchrist is not considered independent under NI 43-101 as he is the Vice President, Resources of Ivanhoe Mines. Mr. Gilchrist 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 earlier underground headings, and vertical channel sample profiles from recent development. Bulk ore sampling was done on each heading every second blast and three 5-kilogram samples were taken. Since the beginning of October 2020, channel sample profiles are the primary data informing the stockpile grade estimates. These are cut approximately 15 metres apart in 1-metre vertical increments across the full vertical exposure using a handheld grinder, with a 100-to-150-gram sample collected. The samples are pulverized at the project's onsite laboratory and analyzed 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. Due to rounding, numbers presented throughout this news release may not add up precisely.

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:

Kamoa-Kakula Integrated Development Plan 2020 dated October 13, 2020, prepared by OreWin Pty Ltd., China Nerin Engineering Co., Ltd., DRA Global, Epoch Resources, Golder Associates Africa, KGHM Cuprum R&D Centre Ltd., Outotec Oyj, Paterson and Cooke, Stantec Consulting International LLC, SRK Consulting Inc., and Wood plc.

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.

About Ivanhoe Mines

Ivanhoe Mines is a Canadian mining company focused on advancing its three principal joint-venture projects in Southern Africa: the development of major new, mechanized, underground mines at the Kamoa-Kakula copper discoveries in the DRC and at the Platreef palladium-platinum-nickel-copper-rhodium-gold discovery in South Africa; and the extensive redevelopment and upgrading of the historic Kipushi zinc-copper-germanium-silver mine, also in the DRC.

Kamoa-Kakula is expected to begin producing copper in May or early June 2021 and, through phased expansions, is positioned to become one of the world's largest copper producers. Kamoa-Kakula and Kipushi will be powered by clean, renewable hydro-generated electricity and will be among the world's lowest greenhouse gas emitters per unit of metal produced. Ivanhoe also is exploring for new copper discoveries on its wholly-owned Western Foreland exploration licences in the DRC, near the Kamoa-Kakula Project.

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 Kamoa-Kakula to begin copper production within a month; (ii) statements regarding the target date for C4 commissioning (milling of ore and first copper concentrate production) has been advanced to the end May or early June; (iii) statements regarding the backfill plant, which will mix tailings from the processing plant with cement to produce paste backfill, will begin pumping backfill to the underground operations in July; (iv) statements regarding the surface stockpiles at Kamoa-Kakula are likely to grow further as our monthly mining rate currently exceeds the Phase 1 milling rate, and should only be drawn down once the Phase 2 concentrator begins operation in mid-2022; (v) statements regarding the expectation that Phase 2 of the project's development when the Kakula concentrator processing capacity doubles to 7.6 Mtpa is to be commissioned in Q3 2022; (vi) statements regarding 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; (vii) statements regarding Kamoa-Kakula's Phase 1 is expected to produce approximately 200,000 tonnes of copper per year, and Phases 1 and 2 combined are forecast to produce approximately 400,000 tonnes of copper per year; (viii) statements regarding based on independent benchmarking, the project's phased expansion scenario to 19 Mtpa would position Kamoa-Kakula as the world's second largest copper mining complex, with peak annual copper production of more than 800,000 tonnes; (ix) statements regarding Kamoa-Kakula will be among the world's lowest greenhouse gas emitters per unit of copper produced; (x) statements regarding the first steel and platework for Phase 2 is expected on site in June 2021; (xi) statements regarding approximately one half of the mine's tailings will be sent back underground; (xii) statements regarding Kamoa-Kakula is close to finalizing agreements for the sale of its copper concentrates during Phase 1 operations; (xiii) statements regarding Kakula is expected to produce an extremely high grade and clean copper concentrate (containing over 55% copper and extremely low arsenic levels by world standards - approximately 0.01%) that will be highly coveted by copper smelters around the world; (xiii) statements regarding the fully-refurbished Mwadingusha hydropower plant is expected to deliver approximately 78 megawatts of power to the national grid; and (xiv) statements regarding an upgraded Turbine 5 at Inga II is expected to produce 162 megawatts of renewable hydropower, providing the Kamoa-Kakula Copper Complex and associated smelter with abundant sustainable electricity for future expansions.

As well, all of the results of the Kakula definitive feasibility study, the Kakula-Kansoko pre-feasibility study and the Kamoa-Kakula 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; (xvi) changes in project scope or design; and (xvii) 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 2020 Year-End MD&A and its current annual information form.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/82624






Medical check-up by Medical personnel in Belanti Village(L) & Medical personnel with Rimba Raya Staff(R).



Dr Ristya Aulia of the Floating Clinic medical team.



Medical examination by Medical personnel in Tampudau Village(L) & Cempaka Baru Village(R), Miss Irus is checked by the nurse.

JAKARTA, May 3, 2021 - (ACN Newswire) - The Rimba Raya Floating Clinic was introduced into the project area as a means to improve community access to health services in and around the Rimba Raya working area which is located along the Seruyan River. In cooperation with the Seruyan District Health Office, the Rimba Raya Floating Clinic has delivered health services three times in 2020 (Jan, Aug, Nov) and once already in 2021 (March).During these trips, several healthcare services are provided including general medical check-ups which help determine the health of local people by recording their weight, height, blood pressure and temperature. A general wellness check is also done. Additionally, pregnant women are examined to ensure that the pregnancy is advancing normally and that the mother to be is in good health. Children are also examined to monitor their growth and physical development. Other community members are examined for health problems such as myalgia, hypertension, cholesterol, URTI (upper respiratory tract infection), gastritis, eating disorders, skin infections and allergies.Medical personnel who provide these services on each floating clinic trip include a doctor, midwives and nurses who are normally based in Puskesmas Kuala Pembuang 1 and Kuala Pembuang 2.Dr. Ristya Aulia, a member of the Floating Clinic medical team said; "Thank you Rimba Raya for introducing this initiative that provides much needed additional health services to the villages along the Seruyan river. It is my hope that the facilities and infrastructure will improve over time and that the floating clinic will continue to provide this service and that trips into the project area will happen more frequently."An elderly woman, Mrs. Irus from Cempaka Baru Village said, "I am very happy with the services provided by the Rimba Raya Floating Clinic, especially because the doctor was able to visit me at my house. I live in a remote village it makes me feel better to know that I can receive treatment in my own home. I live alone and I can't afford to pay for health care if I have to go outside the village."The last two trips conducted by the floating clinic took place from 10-12 November 2020 and 22-24 March 2020. There were 10 locations targeted which included 8 villages and 2 hamlets, namely; Pematang Limau, Tanjung Rangas, Muara Dua (Tampudau and Belanti Hamlet), Jahitan, Baung (west and east), Cempaka Baru, Palingkau and Ulak Batu. A total of 706 patients received health care where 60.91% (or 430 patients) were female.The Rimba Raya Biodiversity Reserve Floating Clinic is equipped to supply 86 types of medicines. Vitamins are also supplied, particularly to children, pregnant women and the elderly.Reportedly, during these health outreach trips, 12 common health problems were diagnosed with the top three being hypertension (24.08%), myalgia (a chronic muscle disorder) - 21.67%, and URTI (Upper Respiratory Tract Infection) - 17%.Based on the data collected during these trips, it is also known that older people are the most susceptible to various illnesses and therefore, in this region, people aged 50 and older are the most vulnerable. 42.78% or 302 patients who received treatment, fell into this category."Rimba Raya Floating Clinic is vital to villagers who require health services, particularly because some areas in the Seruyan are difficult to reach and as a result, there is a severe lack of regular health care. I would like to see an increase in the frequency of these health service trips," said Anggi Mulyawan, Staff of TNTP SPTN II Kuala Pembuang.Head of Seruyan District Health Office, Mahdiniansyah added, "Because there has been limited availability of regional government funding, the field health program introduced by Rimba Raya has been very well received by all community members. A good example of how Rimba Raya has positively impacted this area is when they helped supply medicines to people who were victims of the major flooding that occurred in the Seruyan District in 2020.Additionally, waterborne diseases have been reduced after Rimba Raya introduced initiatives that supply clean drinking water to villagers through the provision of individual water filters and newly constructed water purifying systems. The Head of Seruyan District expressed his gratitude for the assistance of PT. Rimba Raya Conservation in providing free health services to 10 villages and hamlets in the Seruyan District.""Rimba Raya hopes to have better cooperation and support from all parties involved in this effort to improve health services in the region. Access to basic health care services is as a fundamental human right and the needs of all community members should be adequately met," said Sylviana Andhella, Executive Director of Rimba Raya Conservation.Rimba Raya Duty"By protecting forests, we protect all the life in them and contribute to balancing the global climate. We empower communities to be involved in protecting peat swamp forests. Together we love the earth so that its sustainability is maintained." - Djonni Andhella, President Director of Rimba Raya Conservation.Abou Rimba RayaThe Rimba Raya Biodiversity Reserve, an InfiniteEARTH Project, is one of the largest REDD+ projects in the world, protecting nearly 65,000 hectares of peat swamp forest in Central Kalimantan, the world's first REDD+ project verified under the Verra Sustainable Development Verified Impact Standard (SDVista) and achieved the highest rating possible, contributing to all 17 United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) while retaining the coveted Triple Gold status under the global Climate, Community and Biodiversity (CCB) standard in the voluntary carbon market. It is a living example of an economically viable alternative to deforestation. Visit https://infinite-earth.com.The project has reduced Indonesia's emissions by preserving tropical peat swamp forest, avoiding large-scale deforestation, drainage and conversion to palm oil plantations. Bordering the eastern boundary of the Tanjung Puting National Park in the Seruyan River watershed, the Rimba Raya project is rich in biodiversity with over 100 threatened and endangered species, including the endangered Bornean orangutan. Visit https://rimba-raya.com.Rimba Raya Conservation as the field implementer, empowers the community to be involved in maintaining and preserving peat swamp forest ecosystems with the following approach: Empowered Communities, Healthy Forests, Maintained Climate, and supporting the achievement of the SDG targets in the assisted villages of the Rimba Raya Biodiversity Reserve.Health ProtocolThis activity was carried out with reference to the WHOs COVID-19 Health Protocols.Contacts:Frita JunitaCommunication Officer - Rimba Raya ConservationE: rimbarayajakarta@gmail.comH: +62 857-1743-7001U: www.rimba-raya.comRimba Raya MedSos:Instagram: http://instagram.com/rimbarayaproject/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RimbaRayaForestTwitter: https://twitter.com/rimba_raya_Source: Rimba Raya Biodiversity ReserveCopyright 2021 ACN Newswire . All rights reserved.
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 3, 2021 / Lucky Minerals Inc. (TSXV:LKY)(OTC PINK:LKMNF)(FRA:LKY) ("Lucky" or the "Company") is pleased to announce it has continued work at the Wayka epithermal gold discovery at its 100% owned Fortuna Property ("Fortuna"). Fortuna comprises approximately 55,000 hectares in a known mineralized zone in southern Ecuador.

Lucky's CEO, Mr Francois Perron stated: "Our recent Wayka discovery of mineralized vuggy silica hosted in volcanics at surface confirms we are in a high-sulfidation epithermal system. The geophysical data from El Buitre-Emma which revealed a magnetic low anomaly leading to the interpretation of a NNE structure has now been confirmed to coincide with the alteration at surface. The anomaly is presently shown to be at least 3 km long in a north-easterly direction and extends to the limit of the current data. Our teams are pursuing work in the field that will lead to a better understanding of this system both in terms of scale and alteration types which could allow to identify potential feeder zones. This exciting work will lead to drill targets that will be tested in the coming months."

Wayka Update

Lucky's exploration team has continued with geological mapping and sampling at Wayka.

This field work has allowed the team to standardize some of the rock type nomenclature and prepare an updated outcrop geology map of the area. At Wayka most rock types are rhyolites, vuggy silica, dacite porphyry and breccias. Please click here to view updated outcrop geology map.

Wayka lies along an elevated ridge that trends northeast with elevations ranging from approximately 3,600 m to 3,700 m above sea level and is bound to the East by the El Buitre Porphyry Prospect and to the West by the Emma Porphyry Prospect.

Compilation of El Buitre-Emma geophysical survey leads to interpretation of a NNE fault coinciding with surface alteration.

A review of geophysical data from a mag survey completed by our former JV partner has improved our understanding of Wayka. The mag survey shows an anomalous elongated mag low that appears to coincide with the volcanics and alteration zones at Wayka. Please click here to view (looking north) image of the mag low anomaly.

The mag low anomaly trends northeast for approximately 3 km, of which 1.5 km appears to coincide with the surface alteration and mineralization identified to date at Wayka. Our exploration team will continue to extend the surface alteration along the interpreted fault both to the north and the south. The interpretation of the mag low extends to the limit of the current geophysical data both to the north and the south. Please click here to view (looking northeast) image of mag low anomaly.

To date we have received a total of 12 assay results from ALS Chemex Labs for Wayka (News Release dated April 20, 2021) with samples up to 2.9 g/t gold.

Additional sample results are expected in the following days and will include the balance of the initial samples from Wayka as well as some from follow up prospecting work at Sherman.

A total of 36 rock samples have been submitted for Terraspec analyses to determine the type of alteration minerals associated within this mineralized system. This work is expected to assist in identifying potential feeder zones. These results are still pending.

As geological work at Wayka continues, our understanding of the mineralized system is expected to improve as more detailed work is completed. At the moment, Wayka has been observed to remain open in all directions.

Next Steps at Wayka

Exploration teams are focused on gathering samples to further our understanding of current zones and expand the known footprint of the mineralized system. Samples are being submitted approximately every two weeks to ALS Chemex laboratories in Quito for prep work, and the analytical work will be completed at their lab facility in Lima, Peru. ALS Chemex is an ISO certified and accredited laboratory. Results will be released as they are received.

Present work is focused on surface exploration which includes sampling and mapping. This will be followed by trenching leading to scout drilling.

El Garo Soil Sampling Continues

Present work at El Garo continues. El Garo is a large epithermal system with outcrops of dacite and vuggy silica. This system is less than 8 km north of Wayka. Due to a lack of outcrop, a soil sampling program was initiated last year and is in the process of being completed. Results from this program will be combined with trenching. A drilling program continues to be planned for El Garo.

QA/QC Protocols

All exploration work is completed following QA/QC protocols and include the insertion of a coarse blank, a standard and duplicate sample on every batch of 25 samples.

About Lucky

Lucky is an exploration and development company targeting large-scale mineral systems in proven districts with the potential to host world class deposits. Lucky owns a 100% interest in the Fortuna Property.

The Company's Fortuna Project is comprised of twelve contiguous royalty-free 550 km2 (55,000 Ha, or 136,000 Acres) exploration concessions. Fortuna is located in a highly prospective, yet underexplored, gold belt in southern Ecuador.

Covid-19 Safety Protocols

Lucky Minerals has strict rules in place for all workers arriving to and from field sites. All personnel are tested upon arriving and leaving and are tested every two weeks. All personnel are housed in separate and private accommodations and are isolated from the community.

Qualified Person:

Victor Jaramillo, M.Sc.A., P.Geo., Lucky's Exploration Manager and a qualified person in accordance with National Instrument 43-101, is responsible for supervising the exploration program at the Fortuna Project for Lucky Minerals and has reviewed and approved the technical information contained in this news release.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

"Francois Perron"

Chief Executive Officer

Further information on Lucky can be found on the Company's website at www.luckyminerals.com and at www.sedar.com, or by contacting Francois Perron, President and CEO, by email at investors@luckyminerals.com or by telephone at (866) 924 6484.

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.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Adjacent Properties and Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains forward-looking statements relating to the future operations of the Company and other statements that are not historical facts. Forward-looking statements are often identified by terms such as "will", "may", "should", "anticipate", "expects" and similar expressions. All statements other than statements of historical fact, included in this release, including, without limitation, statements regarding the future plans and objectives of the Company are forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to: uncertainties related exploration and development; the ability to raise sufficient capital to fund exploration and development; changes in economic conditions or financial markets; increases in input costs; litigation, legislative, environmental and other judicial, regulatory, political and competitive developments; technological or operational difficulties or inability to obtain permits encountered in connection with exploration activities; and labor relations matters. This list is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect the Company's forward-looking information. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company's expectations also include risks detailed from time to time in the filings made by the Company with securities regulators.

The reader is cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of any forward-looking information may prove to be incorrect. Events or circumstances may cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted, as a result of numerous known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Company. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking information. Such information, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release and the Company will update or revise publicly any of the included forward-looking statements as expressly required by Canadian securities law.

SOURCE: Lucky Minerals Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/643782/Lucky-Minerals-Updates-Wayka-Epithermal-Gold-Discovery-With-Geophysics
Denver, Colorado--(Newsfile Corp. - May 3, 2021) - CBD of Denver, Inc. (OTC Pink: CBDD), a full-line CBD and hemp oil company and a producer and distributor of cannabis and CBD products in Switzerland, Europe, and the US, today discusses the Swiss pilot program to permit temporary production and distribution of marijuana.

In June 2020, the lower house of Switzerland's Federal Assembly approved a bill for a five-year pilot research program for the temporary production and distribution of cannabis to adults for recreational purposes. Marijuana Business Daily reported that it could lead to the normalization of cannabis in Switzerland. The pilot program is intended to provide scientific arguments for a national debate on the opportunity to legally regulate cannabis for adult consumers, according to an expert quoted in the Marijuana Business Daily article. The upper house, the Conseil des Etats approved the bill in September. The bill includes a provision that the cannabis is to be grown by Swiss farmers.

Along with the trial schemes for adult-use supply in The Netherlands, Switzerland will be the first region in Europe to allow for a fully legalized adult-use cannabis supply chain.

"If the pilot program is successful, CBD of Denver, Inc, Rockflowr Exchange, Rockflowr Production and Rockflowr Retail could dramatically benefit by using their expertise in CBD and hemp industry to move into the very lucrative marijuana business," commented Marcel Gamma, CEO of CBD of Denver. "We look forward to providing additional updates as we execute on this potentially lucrative opportunity."

Follow CBDD on Instagram: @CBDofDenver_Inc @Rockflowr @RockflowrRetail

CBD of Denver, Inc., Rockflowr GmbH and Swiss Industry Ventures AG are now also on LinkedIn.

About CBD of Denver, Inc.

CBD of Denver, Inc. (OTC Pink: CBDD) a full-line CBD and Hemp oil company ("CBDD") and a producer and distributor of Cannabis and CBD products in Switzerland, Europe and the US. CBDD is focused on using equity to acquire profitable Swiss assets at attractive valuations to create value for all our shareholders driven by a passion to improve lives and strengthen communities by unleashing the full potential of cannabis.

Through our brand Rockflowr and BlackPearlCBD we reach our consumers and have built up a strong customer base by focusing on top quality products and meaningful customer relationships.

Black Pearl CBD has 0% THC but is not an Isolate where the THC is stripped from the product rendering it ineffective. We use a proprietary technique adding terpenes as the activation ingredient, resulting in a product that is the finest in the industry and only available at www.cbdofdenver.com

Information contained herein includes forward-looking statements. These statements relate to future events or future financial performance, involving known and unknown risks and you should not place undue reliance on these statements. Any forward-looking statement reflects our current views with respect to future events. We assume no obligation publicly about update or revise these forward-looking statements for any reason.

Contacts:

Marcel Gamma

marcel@cbdofdenver.com

Todd McKnight

RedChip Companies

1-800-733-2447

todd@redchip.com

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/82651


WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - Four astronauts splashed down safely in the Gulf of Mexico, completing NASA's first commercial, long-duration mission aboard the International Space Station.



The return comes nearly six months after the crew members arrived at the microgravity laboratory and also marks the longest-duration mission of a crewed American spacecraft to date.



SpaceX's Crew Dragon, carrying NASA astronauts Michael Hopkins, Victor Glover, Shannon Walker, and Japan's Soichi Noguchi, returned to Earth in a parachute-assisted splashdown at 2:56 a.m. ET Sunday off the coast of Panama City, Florida. Crews aboard SpaceX recovery vessels successfully recovered the spacecraft and astronauts. After returning to the shore, the astronauts will fly back to Houston.



'Welcome home Victor, Michael, Shannon, and Soichi, and congratulations to the teams at NASA and SpaceX who worked so hard to ensure their safe and successful splashdown,' said Sen. Bill Nelson, who was confirmed by the Senate to serve as NASA Administrator. 'We've accomplished another incredible spaceflight for America and our commercial and international partners. Safe, reliable transportation to the International Space Station is exactly the vision that NASA had when the agency embarked on the commercial crew program,' he added,



The astronauts spent 168 days in space after the SpaceX Crew-1 mission was launched on November 15, 2020, on a Falcon 9 rocket from the agency's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.



Overall, Hopkins, Glover, Walker, and Noguchi traveled 71,242,199 statute miles during their 168 days in orbit (with 167 days aboard the space station), completing 2,688 orbits around Earth. With splashdown, the crew also broke the American crewed spacecraft mission duration record of 84 days, 1 hour, 15 minutes, set by the final Skylab crew in February 1974.



Crew-1 also is the first night splashdown of a U.S. crewed spacecraft since Apollo 8's predawn return in the Pacific Ocean in 1968.



Throughout their mission, the astronauts contributed to scientific investigations and technology demonstrations, in addition to spacewalks and public engagement events, while aboard the orbiting laboratory. From studying protein crystal development to advance new drug discoveries, to demonstrating robotic assistant technologies, their work advances exploration of the universe while bringing benefits back to Earth.



They also grew crops in both the Advanced Plant Habitat and Veggie plant growth facilities, and conducted tests of a new method for producing semiconductor crystals. The astronauts contributed hundreds of pictures of Earth as part of the Crew Earth Observation investigation, one of the longest-running investigations aboard the space station, which contributes to tracking of natural disasters and changes to earth. The crew also tested a new tape dispenser, designed and produced by students as part of the High Schools United with NASA to Create Hardware (HUNCH), during the mission.



Later this year, SpaceX's 22nd Commercial Resupply Services mission is scheduled to dock at the newly vacant zenith port, bringing with it the first pair of new solar arrays.



The Crew-1 flight is part of NASA's Commercial Crew Program, which has worked with the U.S. aerospace industry to launch astronauts on American rockets and spacecraft from American soil to the space station.



Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

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BANGALORE, India, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The global Thermoplastic Composites Market by Fiber Type (Carbon, Glass, Mineral, and Others), Resin Type (PA, PP, PEEK, Hybrid, Others), Product Type (Glass Mat Thermoplastics (GMT), advanced thermoplastic composites (ATC)), and Applications (Oil & Gas, Aerospace, Marine, Construction, Military, and Others). This report covers Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast from 2021 to 2026. This report is published on Valuates Reports in the Plastics & Polymers Category.

The global Thermoplastic Composites Market was valued at USD 15.2 Billion in 2019 and is projected to reach USD 22.8 Billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 6.1% from 2020 to 2027.

Major factors driving the growth of the thermoplastic composite market are:

Increased adoption of thermoplastics composites in the automotive, construction, and aerospace industries due to processing and maintenance cost saving, code and compliance for medical applications and being environmentally friendly during manufacturing

Furthermore, properties such as recyclability, fast processing, durability , chemical resistance, and the ability to mold and remold, withstand high temperatures, and reduce the overall weight of the product is driving the thermoplastic composite market

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TRENDS INFLUENCING THE GROWTH OF THERMOPLASTICS MARKET SIZE

The rise in the use of thermoplastic composites in the aerospace and defense industry is expected to increase the thermoplastics market size. Thermoplastics mainly intended to reduce total weight and corrosion in aircraft structures. In addition, maintenance costs for aircraft made of composites have reduced substantially as compared to those for aircraft made of traditional materials. Thermoplastic composites have a number of characteristics, including low weight, high strength, a weather-resistant finish, and a variety of surface textures. As a result, demand for thermoplastic composites in the aerospace industry is expected to increase at a rapid rate.

The increasing use of thermoplastics in the automotive sector is expected to drive the thermoplastics market size. Automotive parts are increasingly being made of thermoplastic composites. These materials are lightweight and aid in the reduction of vehicle weight, resulting in lower CO2 emissions and improved vehicle fuel economy. The use of thermoplastics in automotive helps automotive manufacturers in meeting emission requirements and other fuel norms required by environmental agencies.

Furthermore, the increase in the adoption of EV is also expected to propel the growth of thermoplastics market size. Electric vehicles (EVs) are environmentally friendly and are gaining a lot of traction in recent years. Thermoplastic composites have high strength and contribute significantly to vehicle weight reduction, and are extremely useful in the manufacture of electric vehicle parts. Hence, as the market for electric vehicles grows, so makes the demand for thermoplastic composites.

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THERMOPLASTICS MARKET SHARE ANALYSIS

Based on product type, the glass mat thermoplastics held the largest revenue share in 2019. GMTs are thermoplastic composites that outperform injection-molded reinforced thermoplastics mechanically. Aerospace and security, automobile, sporting goods, and wind turbine blades all use GMT.

The PEEK segment is expected to rise at the highest CAGR over the forecast period. The civilian and military aerospace industries are gradually using PEEK resin-based composites. PEEK has superior thermal stability as compared to other resin forms, making it ideal for high-temperature applications.

Based on fiber type, the glass segment dominated the global thermoplastic composites market in terms of sales. Aerospace and security, automotive, sporting goods, and wind turbine blades all use glass fiber-based thermoplastic composites.

Based on region, Asia-Pacific held the dominant position in 2019 and would continue to maintain the lead over the forecast period.

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KEY MARKET SEGMENTS

Thermoplastic Composites market By Fiber Type

Glass

Carbon

Mineral

Others

Thermoplastic Composites market By Product Type

Glass Mat Thermoplastics (GMT)

Advanced Thermoplastic Composites (ATC)

Thermoplastic Composites market By Resin Type

PA

PP

PEEK

Hybrid

Others

By Applications

Oil and gas

Aerospace & Defense

Marine

Construction

Military

Others

Thermoplastic Composites Market By Region

North America

U.S.



Canada



Mexico

Europe

France



Germany



UK



Spain



Italy



Rest of Europe

Asia-Pacific

India



China



Japan



Korea



Rest of Asia-Pacific

LAMEA

Brazil



Saudi Arabia



South Africa



Rest of LAMEA

Key players in the global Thermoplastic Composites market are:

BASF SE

Celanese Corporation

DSM

DuPont

Hanwha

Lanxness

Mitsubishi Chemical Advanced Materials

PPG Industries

SABIC

Solvay S.A.

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SIMILAR REPORTS :

- Continuous Fiber Reinforced Thermoplastic Composites manufacturing primarily concentrates in Europe and USA as the advanced technology is mastered by companies from the two regions. In 2015, Europe and the USA produced about 31536 MT and 27516 MT respectively and held a total market share of 62.30%. China has the highest production growth rate of 11.42% from 2011 to 2015.

- The Glass Mat Thermoplastics (GMT) market was valued at USD 826.4 Million in 2020 and is projected to reach USD 975.7 Million by 2027, at a CAGR of 2.4% during the 2021-2027. In the glass mat thermoplastics (GMT) market, total global consumption was 200666 MT in 2018. Because of the higher demand for downstream applications, Asia-Pacific was the largest consumption area. It accounted for 40.30 percent of global consumption volume in 2018. With 29.27 percent of global demand rate, Europe comes in second. On the other hand, based on application, the automotive segment is expected to hold the largest Glass mat thermoplastics (GMT) market share. It accounted for 92.28 percent of global consumption in 2018.

- The global wood plastic composites market was valued at USD 2,551 Million in 2016, and is expected to reach at USD 6,584 Million by 2023, registering a CAGR of 12.6% from 2017 to 2023. The global wood plastic composites market is fueled by the abundance of non-utilized plastic and wood waste, increased demand from building and construction applications, and strict regulations on the use of chemicals in building materials. However, the market's growth is hampered by rising raw material costs and issues with mechanical strength.

- Thermoplastic Composites Materials Market by Product-Type: Continuous Fiber Thermoplastic (CFT), Glass Mat Thermoplastic (GMT), Long Fiber Thermoplastic (LFT), Short Fiber Thermoplastic (SFT), Application: Aerospace/Aviation, Transportation, Electrical & Electronics, Sports, Medical, Automotive, Others, by key players, by Regions: North America, Europe, China and Japan, etc.

- Short Fiber Reinforced Thermoplastic Composites Market by Product-Type: Polyamide (PA), Polypropylene (PP), Polybutylene Terephthalate (PBT), Others, Application: Transportation, Consumer Goods, Electrical and Electronics, Others, by key players, by Regions: North America, Europe, China and Japan, etc.

- Aerospace & Defense Thermoplastic Composites Market by Product-Type: Carbon Fiber Composites, Glass Fiber Composites, Application: Exteriors, Interiors, Assembly Components, Others, by key players, by Regions: North America, Europe, China and Japan, etc.

- Automotive Carbon Thermoplastics Market by Product-Type: Polyamide (PA), Polypropylene (PP), Polyphenylene Sulfide (PPS), Polyetherimide (PEI), Polyether Ether Ketone (PEEK), Polycarbonate (PC), Application: Exterior, Interior, Chassis, Powertrain & UTH, by key players, by Regions: North America, Europe, China and Japan, etc.

- High Temperature Thermoplastics (HTTs) Market by Product-Type: High Temperature Fluoropolymers, High-Performance Polyamide (HPPA), Polyphenylene Sulfide (PPS), Sulfone Polymers (SP), Liquid Crystal Polymers (LCP), Aromatic Ketone Polymers (AKP), Poly-imide (PI), Application: Transportation, Electrical & Electronics, Industrial, Medical & Region

- Biodegradable Recycled Thermoplastics Market by Product-Type: Flakes, Pellets, Granulates, Application: Packaging, Automotive and Transportation, Building and Construction, Electrical and Electronics, Agriculture and Horticulture, Furniture and Housewares, Others, by key players, by Regions: North America, Europe, China and Japan, etc.

- Thermosetting and Thermoplastics Market by Product-Type: Thermoplastic Resin, Thermosetting Resin, Application: Construction Industry, Automotive, Packaging, Marine, Electronics, Other & Region.

Click Here To See Related Reports On Thermoplastics Composites

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ABU DHABI, UAE, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- A senior delegation from Weizmann Institute of Science led by President Professor Alon Chen visited the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) in Abu Dhabi to discuss the strategic planning and roadmap of MBZUAI-WIS Joint Program for Artificial Intelligence Research (AI Program). The delegation was warmly received by MBUZAI President Professor Eric Xing, and were given a tour of the campus facilities.

President Professor Alon Chen, and Vice President Professor Ziv Reich from the Weizmann Institute also met Mr. Peng Xiao, member of the Board of Trustees and CEO of G42 Group, along with Professor Eric Xing, Dr. Behjat Al Yousuf, Executive Vice President for Outreach and Engagement at MBZUAI, and other senior representatives from both institutions.

Drawing upon the combined expertise of MBZUAI and Weizmann Institute, the AI Program, announced in February, will promote collaborative initiatives in fundamental AI research and will explore AI applications in various topics from healthcare to genomics amongst others. The AI Program will also carry out transformative research in Machine Learning, Computer Vision, Natural Language Processing, Computational Biology, and Neural Sciences, toward the vision of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI). World-leading researchers and highly skilled staff will be appointed to support and facilitate the AI Program's central mission.

Professor Eric Xing said: "To ensure we earn and secure our position at the forefront of AI innovation, we must first and foremost make MBZUAI a home of vibrant academic and research life for both the leading minds and the students of AI. Our partnerships with world-leading academic institutions are vital in making this possible. We are incredibly proud of the MBZUAI-WIS Joint Program for Artificial Intelligence Research, which not only foster intellectual exchange and collaboration in this transformative technology, but also enhances the regional AI ecosystem, especially in the area of fundamental research, and healthcare and genomics applications. The joint research projects to be conceived and carried out by teams from both institutions will form the core of the program. In addition, both MBZUAI students and faculty members can take advantage of the world-class resources, training programs, mutual visits, AI conferences and workshops, and student and faculty exchange programs offered through this collaboration. We look forward to working with our distinguished colleagues from WIS to advance our understanding and knowledge of AI and related fields, and together make significant steps forward in research, education, and technological development for the region."

Professor Alon Chen said: "The program we have established aims to advance AI, explore and utilize its vast potential for the benefit of humanity. We are bringing together some of the greatest minds in AI, natural and exact sciences, with the ambition of expanding boundaries and empowering our scientists with access to exceptional resources. Through this partnership, we will strive to uncover some of AI's tremendous possibilities and help solve some of the world's greatest challenges."

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1501819/Weizmann_MBZUAI.jpg

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Bringing the future of brain repair for stroke, Parkinson's, and other neurological conditions to patients in Latin America, Europe and Middle East

LAUSANNE, Switzerland, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- MindMaze Healthcare, a global pioneer in the multibillion-dollar digital neurotherapeutics market, today announced four new partnership agreements that bring MindMaze's digital neurotherapeutics to patients in Latin America, Middle East, Spain and Switzerland through agreements with Surgicorp, Alkholi, Guttmann Barcelona and Swiss Rehabilitation. With these agreements, MindMaze further expands its novel, protocolized, evidence-based interventions that are the future of brain repair worldwide.

MindMaze Healthcare is at the forefront of enhancing patient outcomes through its innovative digital neurotherapeutics (DTx) solutions that combine cutting-edge neuroscience with highly engaging, serious game-based medicalsoftware supported by tailored smart peripherals that target two distinct areas: neurorehabilitation (Rehab DTx) and neuro-restoration (Neuro DTx).

"MindMaze's evidence-based interventions are leading an international paradigm shift in delivering novel, evidence-based therapies to patients for improved outcomes," noted John Krakauer, M.A., M.D., Professor of Neurology at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Director of the Center for the Study of Motor Learning and Brain Repair, and Chief Medical Advisor to MindMaze. "Importantly, MindMaze digital neurotherapeutic products are used across the continuum of care, from the hospital to home, offering patients a hybrid therapy program delivered through sessions in person and remotely that result in reduced therapy delivery costs and greater patient management and monitoring."

The Company's animated therapeutic 'games' aid patients suffering with neurological injuries and conditions such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, multiple sclerosis, or Parkinson's disease. They were created to be as highly engaging as video games while promoting the high dose, high intensity therapeutic movements that lead to restoration of function.

"MindMaze products have proved to be the best in the market, as validated by the leading US institutions in the field. Thanks to distributors and partners, we can reach more patients faster, so that people with neurological diseases all around the world can benefit first-hand from these proven engaging and immersive therapies, including from the comfort of their own home," said Jean-Marc Wismer, MindMaze's Chief Operating Officer. "The partnerships collectively expand MindMaze's international footprint, which should further solidify our leadership in brain health while contributing to our top line growth over the coming year and beyond."

About MindMaze's Product Portfolio

Digital therapeutics for rehabilitation

MindMotion, a first-in-class tele-neurorehabilitation platform that is cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), is CE marked and reimbursable. ( view patient testimonial here ).

Digital therapeutics for neurorestoration

MindPod, an immersive FDA-listed and CE-marked neurobehavioral platform based on evidence and prescribed protocols developed at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine .

an immersive FDA-listed and CE-marked neurobehavioral platform based on evidence and prescribed protocols developed at the . Curapy, a novel digital neurotherapeutics product line that includes TOAP Run for Parkinson's disease and X-TORP for cognitive disorders.

Supporting devices/smart objects

Intento PRO, a CE-marked digital neurotherapeutics solution enabling self-modulated functional electrical stimulation for the upper limb after stroke.

Digital assessments

Gait Up , digital assessments for measuring and quantifying gait, balance and cognitive function.

About Our Partners

Alkholi

Founded in 1976 by Dr. Hamza Alkholi, Alkholi Medical has been at the forefront of bringing healthcare solutions closer to the people who need it the most in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. From importing medical devices to establishing and operating medical centers, today Alkholi Healthcare Partnerships aspire to grow this legacy by bringing digital therapeutics to homes and remote areas across the Kingdom.

Surgicorp

Surgicorp has over twenty years of experience in medical biotechnology in Peru, Ecuador and Bolivia. It provides surgical products and advanced medical equipment for high complex procedures and technology transfer for the medical community. The company specializes in Neurosurgery, Orthopedics, Urology and Gynecology, and others.

Swiss Rehabilitation

With leading rehabilitation centers in Vaud, Swiss Rehabilitation specializes in neurology services. Stroke rehabilitation is one of Swiss Rehabilitation's areas of expertise. Upon discharge from the hospital, Swiss Rehabilitation continues rehabilitation in an outpatient setting, in one of its centers or at home.

Guttmann Barcelona, Brain Health and Neurorehabilitation Institute

Guttmann Barcelona is a clinic that is specially designed to offer the best diagnosis and most advanced treatments in functional motor, cognitive and behavioural problems that affect people with a neurological disease or neuropsychiatric disorder. Guttmann Barcelona offers comprehensive, holistic and personalised diagnosis and treatment with all the scientific vigour and the hallmark of quality that characterises Institut Guttmann.

About MindMaze

MindMaze is a global leader in brain technology with a mission to accelerate humanity's ability to recover, learn and adapt. With over a decade of work at the intersection of neuroscience, medicine, and engineering powered by artificial intelligence, the company strives to create the universal platform of brain health and performance. Through its products the company is addressing some of the most challenging problems in neurology, including stroke, Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. MindMaze Labs is the company's R&D division tasked with bringing ground-breaking neuroscience to everyday life. Founded in 2012 by Tej Tadi, Ph.D., MindMaze's Chief Executive Officer, the Company has been valued at over $1 billion and has offices in Lausanne, Baltimore, London, Paris and Mumbai. Learn more at mindmaze.com .

Contacts

MindMaze

Phoebe Alix

Phoebe.alix@mindmaze.ch

Media

Edna Kaplan

kaplan@kogspr.com

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Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - May 3, 2021) - Canadian Manganese Company Inc. (the "Company" or "CMC") reports it closed the previously announced acquisition of Maximos Metal Corp. ("Maximos"), and its previously announced private placement of subscription receipts raising gross proceeds of $5,947,500 (the "Financing").

CMC's vision is to create a new technology metals company with an immediate strategic focus on the advancement of CMC's Woodstock manganese property in New Brunswick to produce high purity electrolytic manganese metal and/or high purity manganese sulphate monohydrate for the growing battery metals market.

The global evolution of electric vehicle (EV) and battery technologies combined with mounting geopolitical support provides what CMC believes is a unique opportunity to create a North American based leader in the production of battery-grade manganese.

CMC's mission is to create a diversified technology metals company through a disciplined growth strategy with an emphasis on stakeholder value creation and the development of industry-leading sustainability programs.

CMC plans to make application to list its shares on a Canadian stock exchange as soon as possible.

Acquisition of Maximos Metal Corp.

The acquisition of Maximos was completed by way of a three-cornered amalgamation between Maximos and a wholly owned subsidiary of CMC, which resulted in Maximos becoming a wholly owned subsidiary of CMC, and the shareholders of Maximos becoming shareholders of CMC. (see CMC news release March 26, 2021). The documentation to complete the amalgamation was filed on April 30, 2021.

In connection with the acquisition of Maximos, a total of 59,683,564 common shares in the capital of CMC (each a "CMC Share") were issued to holders of Maximos shares on the basis of 0.55562527 of a CMC Share for every common share of Maximos.

In connection with the completion of the transaction, 9,500,000 options of Maximos were adjusted such that they now entitle the holders thereof to acquire an aggregate of 5,278,440 CMC Shares with each such option being exercisable at a price of $0.18 per share on or before June 30, 2025.

In addition, in connection with the completion of the transaction 8,000,000 common share purchase warrants of Maximos now entitle the holders thereof to acquire an aggregate of 4,445,002 CMC Shares with each such warrant being exercisable at a price of $0.18 per share on or before March 17, 2024.

Following the closing, and the issue of 24,211,109 CMC Shares pursuant to the Financing, CMC now has 143,763,389 CMC Shares outstanding, of which the shareholders of CMC, including new investors, own approximately 58.5% and the former shareholders of Maximos own approximately 41.5%, each on an undiluted basis.

Certain of the larger former Maximos shareholders agreed to enter into escrow agreements with respect to the CMC Shares which they received pursuant to the transaction and as such 38,794,675 CMC Shares (approximately 65% of the shares issued to Maximos shareholders) are subject to a 24-month escrow, with one-quarter of such shares to be released from escrow on the 6, 12, 18 and 24-month anniversaries of the listing of the CMC Shares on a stock exchange.

In addition, 1,805,782 CMC Shares are subject to a 12-month escrow, with one-half of such shares to be released from escrow on the 6 and 12 month anniversaries of the listing of the CMC Shares on a stock exchange.

As a result of the completion of the transactions described in this news release, JMEC Holdings Inc. ("JMEC") acquired 16,049,311 CMC Shares which represent approximately 11.2% of the issued and outstanding CMC Shares as calculated in accordance with National Instrument 62-104 Take-Over Bids and Insider Bids ("NI 62-104"). Peter Steele, who controls JMEC, acquired control of 29,788,284 CMC Shares which represents approximately 20.7% of the issued and outstanding CMC Shares as calculated in accordance with NI 62-104.

JMEC acquired ownership of the CMC Shares as a result of the conversion of Maximos shares pursuant to the amalgamation. Mr. Steele acquired control of the CMC Shares as a result of the acquisition of CMC Shares by three entities which he controls (including JMEC). Such acquisitions occurred both through the completion of the amalgamation as well as a pursuant to the Financing (3,091,111 HD Subscription Receipts (as defined below) and 2,833,333 FT Subscription Receipts (as defined below)).

Prior to the completion of the transaction and Financing neither JMEC nor Peter Steele owned or had direct or indirect control over any CMC Shares. JMEC, Peter Steele and the entities through which he controls the CMC Shares have a long-term view of their investment in CMC and may acquire additional securities of CMC including on the open market or through private acquisitions or sell the securities including on the open market or through private dispositions in the future depending on market conditions and other relevant factors.

The head office of JMEC and the other entities through which Peter Steele controls the CMC Shares is located at 1100- 1959 Upper Water St., Halifax, Nova Scotia B3J 3N2.

Following closing of the transactions Matthew Allas, President of Maximos, was appointed as a director of CMC. It is anticipated that at the next annual meeting of shareholders of CMC (expected to be held in June 2021), John Allan, a nominee of Maximos and two new independent directors will also be appointed to the Board of Directors of CMC.

Private Placement Financing $5.95 Million

In connection with the acquisition of Maximos, CMC has closed a non-brokered private placement equity financing (the "Financing") through an offering of subscription receipts ("Subscription Receipts") at a price of $0.30 per flow-through receipt ("FT Subscription Receipt") and $0.225 per non-flow-through receipt ("HD Subscription Receipt"), led by key supporting investors, including certain Maximos insiders, Clarion Finance Pte Ltd., and Commodity Capital.

Pursuant to the Financing, CMC issued 17,544,443HD Subscription Receipts at a price of $0.225 each for gross proceeds of $3,947,499.68 and 6,666,666 FT Subscription Receipts at a price of $0.30 each, for gross proceeds of $1,999,999.80. Each HD Subscription Receipt entitled the holder to receive one CMC Share, for no additional consideration, on completion of the amalgamation and each FT Subscription Receipt entitled the holder to receive one flow-through CMC Share, for no additional consideration, on completion of the amalgamation.

The gross proceeds of the Financing were deposited in escrow on closing and the Subscription Receipts automatically converted into CMC Shares and the funds released to CMC upon completion of the Maximos acquisition and the satisfaction of the other escrow release conditions.

Finders fees of $224,000 in cash and 333,333 share purchase warrants were paid and issued to certain arms-length parties for assisting in the Financing. Each warrant entitles the holder to purchase one CMC Share at a price of $0.27 per share for three years following the listing of the CMC Shares on a Canadian stock exchange.

John F. Kearney, an insider of CMC, subscribed for 444,444 HD Subscription Receipts for gross proceeds of $100,000. The issue of HD Subscription Receipts to John F. Kearney, a 'Related Party' within the meaning of Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions of the Canadian Securities Administrators (the "Instrument"), constituted a 'related party transaction' under the Instrument. However, the transaction is exempt from the formal valuation requirements of the Instrument by virtue of s. 5.5(a) - Fair Market Value Not More Than 25% of Market Capitalization; and from the minority shareholder approval requirements by virtue of s. 5.7(a) - Fair Market Value Not More Than 25% of Market Capitalization, and s. 5.7(b) - Fair Market Value Of Not More Than $2,500,000.

All securities issued in connection with the Financing are subject to a four month hold period from the date of issuance of such securities, expiring on August 30, 2021.

The material change report to be filed in relation to the Financing was not filed at least 21 days prior to the closing of the Financing, as contemplated by the Instrument. CMC believes that this shorter period is reasonable and necessary in the circumstances as the completion of the Financing occurred shortly before the issuance of the news release and the upcoming filing of the material change report in relation to the Financing.

ABOUT CANADIAN MANGANESE

CMC is a Canadian mineral development company aiming to become a supplier of high-purity manganese metal products for the rechargeable battery industry.

CMC holds the Woodstock manganese property In New Brunswick containing the Plymouth manganese-iron deposit that hosts an Inferred Resource of 44,770,000 tonnes grading 9.85% manganese and on which a positive preliminary economic assessment, NI 43-101 technical report was completed in 2014.

Manganese is a key component in the formulations of the cathode material used in high-performance lithium-ion batteries, and in utility bulk energy storage facilities, which are expected to create strong demand for high-purity manganese products.

Manganese has been identified by the Canadian and US governments as a critical mineral and strategic metal that is essential for national defense, aerospace, technology, and energy that is highly susceptible to supply interruptions due to the lack of domestic production.

For further information:

investors@CanadianManganese.com

John F. Kearney

Chairman & Chief Executive

+1 416 362 6686

Matthew Allas

President and CEO

Maximos Metals Corporation

+1 647 338 3748

Additional information on CMC Company Inc. is available at www.CanadianManganese.com.

CAUTIONARY STATEMENTS

ANY SECURITIES REFERRED TO HEREIN WILL NOT BE REGISTERED UNDER THE U.S. SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED (THE "1933 ACT"), AND MAY NOT BE OFFERED OR SOLD IN THE UNITED STATES OR TO A U.S. PERSON IN THE ABSENCE OF SUCH REGISTRATION OR AN EXEMPTION FROM THE REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS OF THE 1933 ACT.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/82689


BRUSSELS/FRANKFURT/PARIS (dpa-AFX) - European markets closed higher on Monday amid optimism about economic recovery after data showed a surge in Germany's retail sales and an expansion in euro zone factory activity.



The French government has eased lockdown restrictions, allowing citizens to travel further than 10km (six miles) from home and can go anywhere in France. They have been exempted from carrying forms giving valid reasons for travelling. However, according to reports, the night-time curfew remains in force.



The pan European Stoxx 600 climbed 0.58%. Germany's DAX surged up 0.66% and France's CAC 40 climbed 0.61%, while Switzerland's SMI ended 0.88% up. The U.K. market was closed for a public holiday.



Among other markets in Europe, Austria, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden and Turkey ended notably higher.



Belgium edged up marginally and Iceland drifted lower.



In the French market, Technip, Renault, ArcelorMittal, Danone, Air France-KLM, Kering, Schenider Electric, LOreal, Faurecia, Valeo and Hermes International moved higher, while WorldLine and STMicroElectronics ended notably lower.



In Germany, Covestro, Lufthansa, Volkswagen, Allianz, Deutsche Post, Siemens, Deutsche Wohnen, Adidas, Vonovia and Fresenius Medical Care closed higher by 1 to 3%. Deutsche Bank declined sharply, while Bayer, SAP and Thyssenkrupp posted modest losses.



Shares of Dutch telecom firm Royal KPN NV declined sharply after the company confirmed that it has rejected an unsolicited takeover offer from a private equity consortium comprising EQT and Stonepeak.



German retail sales grew by a real 7.7% on a monthly basis in March, Destatis reported. That was faster than the 2.7% increase in February and 3% rise economists had forecast.



On a yearly basis, retail sales rebounded 11%, reversing a 6.6% fall in the previous month and confounding expectations for a decrease of 0.3%.



The IHS Markit France Manufacturing PMI edged down to 58.9 in April from a record high of 59.3 in March and slightly below a preliminary estimate of 59.2. However, the rate of growth in factory activity was among the quickest since data collection began just over 23 years ago.



Eurozone PMI Manufacturing was finalized at 62.9 in April, up from March's 62.5, highest since record began in 1997, Markit said earlier in the day.



Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

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From left are Prime Minister nominee Kim Boo-kyum, Land Minister nominee Noh Hyeong-ouk, Industry Minister nominee Moon Sung-wook, Science Minister nominee Lim Hye-sook, Labor Minister nominee An Kyung-duk and Oceans Minister nominee Park Jun-young. Courtesy of Cheong Wa Dae



By Nam Hyun-woo



Allegations of ethical lapses have emerged for almost all the candidates nominated for ministerial positions by President Moon Jae-in during his Cabinet reshuffle last month.



With their confirmation hearings scheduled for today at the National Assembly, the main opposition People Power Party (PPP) is demanding they turn down the nominations, arguing they are "unqualified" for high-ranking government posts.



"The upcoming hearings for the five minister nominees will apparently to be an exhibition of naeronambul, and the candidates are mostly unqualified to receive approval from the opposition," PPP spokesman Rep. Bae June-young said Monday. "Naeronambul" refers to a popular saying on hypocrisy in Korean which roughly translates to "If I do it, it is romance, and if you do it, it is adultery."



The comments come as each of the minister nominees are mired in ethical problems involving themselves or their family members.





Land Minister nominee Noh Hyeong-ouk enters the government complex in Gwacheon, Gyeonggi Province, April 30. Yonhap



Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport nominee Noh Hyeong-ouk has been tarred with guilt by association because of his wife and son's misdemeanors.



Noh's wife was caught shoplifting at a supermarket last year and fined 200,000 won after acknowledging the crime, saying she did so impulsively while suffering from depression.



His second son is also under suspicion of unfairly collecting unemployment benefits, something Noh has denied.



Another controversy surrounds an apartment in Sejong.



In 2011, Noh purchased an apartment in the city at a special price offered to civil servants who had to move to the city due to the relocation of government agencies. However, instead of living in it, he resided in an official residence for ranking officials  located further from his office than the apartment  and rented it out. He then sold the apartment in 2017 for 500 million won ($447,000), raking in a profit of more than 300 million won.



Noh explained that he was living in the official residence because he signed a contract extension with the then tenants of the apartment.





Science Minister nominee Lim Hye-sook enters a building in Gwanghwamun, Seoul, Tuesday. Korea Times photo by Bae Woo-han
SOUTHFIELD, MI / ACCESSWIRE / May 3, 2021 / P&M Corporate Finance, LLC ("PMCF") is pleased to announce that it served as the exclusive financial advisor to ATA National Title Group, LLC and its subsidiaries and affiliated companies (collectively, "ATA" or the "Company"). CNL Strategic Capital, LLC acquired a majority equity stake in partnership with ATA's management.

Founded in 1999 and headquartered in Farmington Hills, Michigan, ATA is a national independent title insurance agency and settlement service provider for the residential resale, residential refinance, commercial and default real estate markets. Its brands include Attorneys Title Agency, Greco Title Agency, Midstate Title Agency, Seaver Title Agency, and Talon Title Agency. ATA has over 400 employees across 60 offices in the Great Lakes Region (Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, and Illinois), and its business has a nationwide reach through key underwriter relationships. ATA is in the top 1% of independent title insurance agencies in the United States in terms of volume, completing more than 50,000 transactions per year.

Bill Robinson, President of ATA, said, "ATA's success as a leader in the title services industry has been achieved by our focus on world-class service and value creation opportunities. Our partnership provides our firm the resources to continue being a market-leading title services provider. I look forward to our collaboration contributing meaningfully to the continued growth of our business."

ATA selected PMCF to serve as their exclusive advisor and investment banker in the transaction. Retired U.S. Congressman, Founder, and Chairman of ATA, David Trott, added, "PMCF has assisted me with the sale of two companies. I have always found their team and work to be exceptional. They did a great job maximizing the value of my businesses, finding the right partner, and working through the due diligence process to get the deals closed."

The transaction closed in April 2021. Bill Sider and Jyotsna Balakrishnan, Partners at Jaffe Raitt Heuer & Weiss LLP, served as the legal advisors to ATA.

About PMCF

PMCF is a middle market investment bank providing merger and acquisition advisory services to private, public, and private equity owned companies. PMCF provides a broad range of services, including sale advisory, acquisition advisory, capital raising, transaction planning, and strategic advisory. The firm has dedicated professionals focused on plastics & packaging, business services & technology, automotive, distribution, transportation & logistics, aerospace & defense, healthcare, and consumer, food, & retail industries. PMCF has offices in Chicago, Detroit, Denver, and globally through its ownership in Corporate Finance International. PMCF is also an affiliate of Plante Moran, one of the nation's largest professional services firms. For more information, visit pmcf.com.

Media contact

Matt Jamison, Managing Director

P&M Corporate Finance (PMCF)

Matt.Jamison@pmcf.com

Matt Rupprecht, Vice President

P&M Corporate Finance (PMCF)

Matt.Rupprecht@pmcf.com

Jayson Gitt, Vice President

P&M Corporate Finance (PMCF)

Jayson.Gitt@pmcf.com

Related Images

SOURCE: P&M Corporate Finance

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/644078/PMCF-Advises-ATA-National-Title-Group-in-Its-Sale-Transaction-to-CNL-Strategic-Capital
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 3, 2021 / Alliance Mining Corp. (TSXV:ALM) ("Alliance" or the "Company) is pleased to announce that it has closed the private placement previously announced on March 24, 2021 for gross proceeds of $393,750. The units of the financing comprised of one common share at a price of $0.1875 and a full share purchase warrant, which may be exercised for a period of 18 months at a price of $0.30 per share. The term of the warrants may be accelerated in the event that the issuer's shares trade at or above a price of $0.35 per share for a period of 10 consecutive days. In such case of accelerated warrants, the issuer may give notice, in writing or by way of news release, to the subscribers that the warrants will expire 30 days from the date of providing such notice.

The proceeds of the private placement will be used for general working capital and Exploration.

The subscribers of the placement have all agreed to a 2-year escrow hold period commencing from April 23, 2021 whereby 1/6th of the securities will be released from escrow at the end of each 4-month period during the escrow term. The Company announces August 24, 2021 as the hold expiry date for the first escrow release of this placement.

The closing of the private placement financing is subject to final TSX-V approval.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

Anonymous

Director

For Further Information Please Contact:

Alliance Mining Corp.

(604) 488-3900

Investor Relations:

(604) 488-3900

E-mail: ir@alliancemining.com

Forward-Looking Statement Cautions

This press release contains certain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable based on current circumstances, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts, and by their nature, refer to future events. The Company cautions that forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs, estimates and opinions of the Company's management on the date the statements are made and they involve a number of risks and uncertainties, including the possibility the Company may not be successful in its legal action to enforce the performance of the Option Agreement.

There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law or the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange. Readers are encouraged to review the Company's complete public disclosure record on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Alliance Mining Corp.

888 Dunsmuir Street - Suite 888, Vancouver, B.C., V6C 3K4

SOURCE: Alliance Mining Corp.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/644198/Alliance-Mining-Closes-Financing-With-a-Two-Year-Escrow-Provision
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 3, 2021) - NEO Battery Materials Ltd. (TSXV: NBM) ("NEO" or the "Company") announces that, in follow up to the Company's press release dated January 27, 2021 and in accordance with section 3.2(b) of the TSX Venture Exchange (the "Exchange") Policy 2.5, the Company provided a submission to the Exchange prior to April 30, 2021 evidencing how it intends to meet Tier 2 continued listing requirements as a mining Company.

In connection with the submission to the Exchange, the Company is providing the following summary and updates to its mining operations:

Pursuant to the Company's press releases dated January 26, 2021 and February 11, 2021, the Company has staked new mining claims in Golden, BC, along strike with a quartzite bed, targeting silica in the quartzites over a total of 467 hectares. The Company has also engaged an exploration manager to oversee the exploration program (the "Initial Program") of the mining claims. The program is anticipated to begin late May or early June this year, depending upon weather conditions, and to last 6-8 months for a total cost of approximately $80,000.

The Company plans to stake additional claims peripheral to the original claims prior to conducting the initial program. The Company also anticipates Additional Programs (the "Additional Programs") will include exploratory work on potential claims to be staked on silica deposits in other areas of the Province.

While the term and cost of any Additional Programs will depend upon the results from the Initial Program, the Company anticipates expenditures on mining exploration and development relating to the Company's staking operations to be between $500,000 and $800,000 over the next 12-24 months.

Pursuant to the Company's press release dated February 26, 2021, announcing it has entered into a non-binding Letter of Intent agreement with Belmont Resources Inc. ("Belmont") to acquire a 25% interest in the A Block of the Kibby Basin Lithium Project, the Company is still in the process of negotiating the terms of a final agreement with Belmont.

The Company's mining focus is on the exploration, development and production of silicon, which, when added to anode materials in the production of lithium-ion batteries, provides improvements in capacity and efficiency of lithium-ion batteries using graphite in their anode materials.

While the Company's principal enterprise continues to be that of a mining issuer, the Company also intends to pursue long term technology opportunities related to the raw materials production needed in the manufacture of batteries for the electric vehicle industry. In that regard, the Company has:

Pursuant to a press release dated March 8, 2021, entered into a Licensing Agreement with the University-Industry Foundation of Yonsei University ("Yonsei"). Under the terms of the Agreement, the Company was granted an exclusive world-wide license for three patents relating to silicon nano-coating technology and paid an initial licensing fee of $35,030. A milestone fee of $267,887 shall be due to Yonsei upon the first sale of a product made by the Company using the technology under license by method of mass production, which milestone the Company does not anticipate meeting for the foreseeable future.

Appointed Drs. Jong Hyeok Park, Jaehong Hur, Suk Joong Hwang and Sang Young Lee to its Scientific Advisory Board to oversee a variety of elements relating to the battery materials technology.

The Company anticipates the technology opportunities related to lithium-ion batteries are a long-term investment, and while the Company believes these activities will remain ancillary to the Company's mining enterprise, the Company still anticipates allocating a small portion of working capital to research, development, and licensing projects in the future.

About NEO Battery Materials Ltd.

NEO Battery Materials Ltd. is a Vancouver-based junior resource company focused on battery metals exploration in North America. The Company has staked new mining claims in Golden, BC, along a strike with a quartzite bed, targeting silica in the quartzites for a total of 467 hectares. The Company focuses on exploring and producing silicon, which, when added to anode materials in the production of lithium-ion batteries, provides improvements in capacity and efficiency over lithium-ion batteries using graphite in their anode materials. The Company intends to become an integrated silicon producer and anode materials supplier to the electric vehicle industry. For more information, please visit the Company's website at: https://www.neobatterymaterials.com/.

On behalf of the Board of Directors

Spencer Huh

President and CEO

604-697-2408

shuh@neobatterymaterials.com

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

THIS NEWS RELEASE IS NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/82731.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 3, 2021) - Millennial Lithium Corp. (TSXV: ML) (FSE: A3N2) (OTCQX: MLNLF) ("Millennial" or the "Company") announces the results of its annual general meeting of shareholders held on April 20th, 2021, in West Vancouver, Canada. Shareholders voted in favour of all items put forward by the board of directors and management including the Company's Long Term Incentive Plan (the "Plan" as described below).

All six of the individuals nominated for the board of directors were elected and the directors for the ensuing year, with the number of directors fixed at six are: Farhad Abasov, Jack Scott, Graham Harris, Richard Lacroix, Kyle Stevenson and Charles Yeung.

The shareholders also voted in favour of appointing Davidson & Company LLP, as auditor of the company for the ensuing year and authorizing directors to fix the auditors' remuneration; approving and granting annual approval to the company's incentive stock option plan; and approving the Company's performance share unit plan.

Millennial further announces that the Company's Compensation Committee has approved the award of 2,000,000 PSUs to certain directors, officers, employees and consultants (an "Award Holder"). The 2,000,000 PSUs carry no award price. The 2,000,000 PSUs are subject to certain vesting provisions.

On March 24, 2021, Millennial announced that it had adopted the Plan which provides for the issuance of up to 2,000,000 performance share units (the "PSUs"). Each PSU, when it vests, entitles the holder to acquire one common share (the "PSU Shares") of the Company. Any PSU Shares issued are subject to a four month resale restriction imposed by TSX Venture Exchange policies which ends four months after the award of the PSU.

The award of the 2,000,000 PSUs represents all of the PSUs available under the Plan. No further PSU awards can be made under the Plan. The Plan has received TSX Venture Exchange approval.

To find out more about Millennial Lithium Corp. please contact Investor Relations at (604) 662-8184 or email info@millenniallithium.com.

MILLENNIAL LITHIUM CORP.

"Farhad Abasov"

President and CEO, Director

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.

This news release may contain certain "Forward-Looking Statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and applicable Canadian securities laws. When used in this news release, the words "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect", "target, "plan", "forecast", "may", "schedule" and similar words or expressions identify forward-looking statements or information. These forward-looking statements or information may relate to future prices of commodities, accuracy of mineral or resource exploration activity, reserves or resources, regulatory or government requirements or approvals, the reliability of third party information, continued access to mineral properties or infrastructure, currency risks including the exchange rate of USD$ for CDN$, fluctuations in the market for lithium, changes in exploration costs and government royalties or taxes in Argentina and other factors or information. Such statements represent the Company's current views with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by the Company, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social risks, contingencies and uncertainties. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause results, performance or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements or information to reflect changes in assumptions or changes in circumstances or any other events affections such statements and information other than as required by applicable laws, rules and regulations.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/82700
Cystatin C is a protein used as a biomarker for kidney function. When a healthcare practitioner suspects a patient may have decreased kidney function, a cystatin C test may be ordered to help assess how well the kidneys are filtering. Measurement of serum cystatin C is gaining a greater role in the estimation of kidney function, particularly as the kidney community considers moving away from the current race-based eGFR equation which depends on creatinine measurement.

"Cystatin C can play an important role in providing an unbiased estimate of kidney function so that every individual may receive personalized, appropriate and equitable care," said LaVarne A. Burton, AKF president and CEO. "With the support from Gentian Diagnostics, AKF is pleased to host a professional webinar to help educate prescribers and allied health professionals about the use of cystatin C to assess kidney function."

The webinar will feature panelists globally respected in their fields of study, including:

Amy Karger, MD, PhD, associate professor, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota

Josef Coresh, MD, PhD, professor of epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University

Michael Shlipak, MD, MPH, professor of medicine, University of California San Francisco

Michelle Estrella, MD, MHS, associate professor of medicine, University of California San Francisco

Moderator: Silas Norman, MD, MPH, co-medical director of Kidney and Pancreas Transplantation, University of Michigan, director of the Transplant Multi-Specialty Ambulatory Clinic and member of the AKF Board of Trustees

During this interactive webinar, the multidisciplinary panel of experts will delve into the utility of the cystatin C test in diagnosing kidney disease. They will discuss why cystatin C could help eliminate racial bias and improve precision in treatment; the importance of educating the nephrology community on cystatin C; situations in which measuring cystatin C may be clinically useful; and the effort to encourage laboratories to bring this testing in-house.

"The pandemic has highlighted the criticality of clinical diagnostics, and the potential value that can be unlocked by innovations contributing to diagnostic efficiency," said Dr. Hilja Ibert, CEO of Gentian Diagnostics. "Gentian is proud to partner with the American Kidney Fund on this important topic and help support their mission in fighting kidney disease."

About the American Kidney Fund

The American Kidney Fund (AKF) fights kidney disease on all fronts as the nation's leading kidney nonprofit. AKF works on behalf of the 37 million Americans living with kidney disease, and the millions more at risk, with an unmatched scope of programs that support people wherever they are in their fight against kidney disease-from prevention through transplant. With programs that address early detection, disease management, financial assistance, clinical research, innovation and advocacy, no kidney organization impacts more lives than AKF. AKF is one of the nation's top-rated nonprofits, investing 97 cents of every donated dollar in programs, and holds the highest 4-Star rating from Charity Navigator and the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar. For more information, please visit KidneyFund.org, or connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.

About Gentian

Gentian is a Norwegian diagnostics company that specializes in making novel biomarkers available on the Particle-Enhanced Turbidimetric Immunoassay (PETIA) platform. The company's first commercially available product, The Gentian Cystatin C assay, was launched in 2006 and FDA 510k cleared in 2008. Gentian has since established itself as a global leader in the manufacture of cystatin C assays with its method being one of the few used to evaluate the commutability of the IFCC reference standard. Gentian's current portfolio of diagnostic reagents spans areas of kidney disease, cardiac disease, inflammation, infection and veterinary medicine.

Contacts

Ben Shannon

akf@jpa.com

Links

https://www.kidneyfund.org/training/webinars/cystatin-c.html

SOURCE: American Kidney Fund

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/644152/American-Kidney-Fund-Hosts-Webinar-for-Health-Professionals-on-the-Use-of-Cystatin-C-in-Kidney-Function-Testing
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 3, 2021 / Huntsman Exploration Inc. (TSXV:HMAN)(OTC PINK:BBBMF) (the "Company" or "Huntsman") is pleased to announce that Scott Patrizi has been appointed President and Chief Executive Officer and a director of the Company.



Mr. Patrizi is a corporate director with strong equity capital markets and project acquisition experience. Mr. Patrizi holds a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Western Australia. Most recently, he was the Executive Director of Western Australian gold explorer Caprice Resources Limited. As Executive Director of Caprice he was responsible for the successful initial public offering (IPO) of the Company in 2018 and was instrumental in overseeing the acquisition of the high-grade Island Gold Project in October 2020.



Mr. Patrizi was formerly the Executive Director at Matador Mining Limited (MZZ) and a Non-Executive Director of Rarex Limited (REE) and Elixir Petroleum (EXR) where during his tenure each completed major transformational acquisitions. Mr. Patrizi has worked across a wide range of industries including mining, oil and gas, healthcare, and education, providing merger and acquisition, valuation and due diligence services. Mr. Patrizi previous employment history includes working for Argonaut Limited, a full-service advisory, stockbroking and research and investment house focused on clients in the natural resources sector, as well as for big 4 accounting firm Deloitte.



Peter Dickie has resigned as President, Chief Executive Officer and director of the Company. The Company thanks Mr. Dickie for his service and wishes him well in his future endeavours.



Huntsman is a mineral exploration company focused on the exploration and development of the Canegrass Nickel Sulphide project in Western Australia under the Company's Huntsman nickel division and the exploration and development of the Company's gold projects under the Huntsman gold division, specifically the Baxter Spring historical gold discovery in Nevada, and the Flint property in Idaho.Scott PatriziPresident and Chief Executive OfficerFor more information, please contact 1-855-584-0160 or info@huntsmanx.com.Neither TSX Venture Exchange, the Toronto Stock Exchange nor their 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.Forward Looking Statements: Statements contained in this news release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements, which are subject to a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainness and other factors that may cause the actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in our forward-looking statements. Although we believe that the expectations in our forward-looking statements are reasonable, actual results may vary, and we cannot guarantee future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements.

SOURCE: Huntsman Exploration Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/644178/Huntsman-Appoints-New-President-and-CEO
Kelowna, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 3, 2021) - Fiore Cannabis Ltd. (CSE: FIOR) (OTCQX: FIORF) ("Fiore" or the "Company"), a licensed multi-state cannabis cultivator, producer and retailer, today announced the closing of the second and final tranche of its previously announced non-brokered private placement (the "Private Placement") . In total, 2,093,244 units ("Units") were issued at a price of $0.15 per Unit for gross proceeds of $313,987 with 3% coming from management and insiders.

Each Unit in the Private Placement is comprised of one common share and one share purchase warrant. Each warrant is exercisable into one common share at an exercise price of $0.22 for a period of eighteen (18) months from the date of issuance. The warrants are subject to an accelerated expiry date if the trading price of the Company's common shares closes at or above $0.50 per share for a period of ten (10) consecutive trading days.

The Company intends to use the proceeds from the Private Placement to fund expansion projects in its Nevada and California operations, and for general working capital purposes.

The Units were offered and sold by private placement in Canada to "accredited investors" within the meaning of National Instrument 45-106 - Prospectus Exemptions and other exempt purchasers in each province of Canada, and may be sold outside of Canada on a basis which does not require the qualification or registration of any of the common shares or the warrants comprising the Units in the subscriber's jurisdiction. The securities issued in the private placement are subject to applicable hold periods imposed under applicable securities legislation, including a hold period of four (4) months and one day from the date of issuance.

Insiders of the Company acquired 63,244 Units for consideration of approximately $9,487 in the final tranche. The issuance of securities to insiders pursuant to the Private Placement (the "Insider Participation") constitutes a related party transaction within the meaning of Multilateral Instrument 61-101 ("MI 61-101"). The Company has relied on exemptions to the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements contained in sections 5.5(b) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101 in respect of the Insider Participation as no securities of the Company are listed or quoted for trading on certain prescribed stock exchanges, and neither the fair market value of the subject matter of, nor the fair market value of the consideration for, the Insider Participation, insofar as it involved related parties, exceeded 25% of the Company's market capitalization. Further details will be included in a material change report to be filed by the Company in due course. The material change report will not be filed more than 21 days prior to the closing of the Offering as the level of insider participation was not known at that time.

About Fiore Cannabis

Fiore Cannabis (CSE: FIOR) (OTCQX: FIORF) is a publicly traded company that has been investing in the development of medical and recreational cannabis products since 2014. Fiore has expanded its operating portfolio to include cultivation, production and retail offerings in our key North American legal jurisdictions of Nevada and California. For more information, please visit www.fiorecannabis.com.

For Further Information

Erik Anderson, President and CEO

1-877-438-5448 Ext. 713

eanderson@fiorecannabis.com

This press release is not an offer of securities of the Company for sale in the United States. The common shares and warrants of the Company have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the common shares and warrants may not be offered or sold in the United States except pursuant to an applicable exemption from such registration. No public offering of securities is being made in the United States.

Cannabis Industry Involvement

The Company owns marijuana licenses in California and Nevada. Marijuana is legal in each state; however, marijuana remains illegal under United States federal law and the approach to enforcement of U.S. federal law against marijuana is subject to change. Shareholders and investors need to be aware that federal enforcement actions could adversely affect their investments and that the Company's ability to support continuing U.S.-based operations and its access private and public capital could be materially adversely affected.

Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains forward-looking statements or information that relate to our current expectations and views of future events, including in respect the attributes of the securities to be offered and sold by the Company, the size, terms and completion of the Private Placement and the use of proceeds of the Private Placement and the likelihood of future closings. Statements which are not purely historical are forward-looking statements and include any statements regarding beliefs, plans, outlook, expectations or intentions regarding the future including words or phrases such as "anticipate", "objective", "may", "will", "might", "should", "could", "can", "intend", "expect", "believe", "estimate", "predict", "potential", "plan", "is designed to", "project", "continue", or similar expressions suggest future outcomes or the negative thereof or similar variations. These forward-looking statements are based on the Company's current projections and expectations about future events and financial trends that management believes might affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs, and on certain assumptions and analysis made by the Company in light of the experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments and other factors management believes are appropriate.

Forward-looking information and statements involve and are subject to assumptions and known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause actual events, results, performance, or achievements of the Company to be materially different from future events, results, performance, and achievements expressed or implied by forward-looking information and statements herein. Such factors include, among others: the risks and uncertainties identified in the Company's reports and filings with the applicable Canadian securities regulators, risks and uncertainties related to completing the Private Placement on terms acceptable to the Company or at all, risks and uncertainties related to the closing of future tranches of the Private Placement, receipt of the proceeds thereof, and regulatory and other impediments to closing. Although the Company believes that any forward-looking information and statements herein are reasonable, in light of the use of assumptions and the significant risks and uncertainties inherent in such information and statements, there can be no assurance that any such forward-looking information and statements will prove to be accurate, and accordingly readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of such risks and uncertainties and should not place undue reliance upon such forward-looking information and statements. Any forward-looking information and statements herein are made as of the date hereof, and except as required by applicable laws, the Company assumes no obligation and disclaims any intention to update or revise any forward-looking information and statements herein or to update the reasons that actual events or results could or do differ from those projected in any forward-looking information and statements herein, whether as a result of new information, future events or results, or otherwise.

THIS PRESS RELEASE IS NOT FOR PUBLICATION OR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES, FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THIS RESTRICTION MAY CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION OF UNITED STATES SECURITIES LAW

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/82717
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 03, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Calibre Mining Corp. (TSX: CXB; OTCQX: CXBMF) ("Calibre" or the "Company") announces financial and operational results for the three months ended March 31, 2021 ("Q1 2021"). The interim consolidated financial statements and management discussion and analysis can be obtained from www.sedar.com (http://www.sedar.com) and the Company's website, www.calibremining.com (http://www.calibremining.com). All figures are expressed in U.S. dollars.



Q1 2021 HIGHLIGHTS

Gold production: 45,452 ounces, highest quarterly production since Q3 2016;

Production includes the first ore delivery from the Pavon Norte mine to the Libertad mill Demonstrating Calibre's ability to advance new satellite deposits: 'permit to plant' in less than 18 months;

Positive Pavon gold mine Pre-feasibility Study, currently in production, with strong exploration potential, and an after-tax net present value of $106 million (at a $1,700 price of gold and a discount of 5%) 2 ;

; Gold sales of 45,882 ounces generating $82.0 million in revenue, at an average realized gold price of $1,788 per ounce;

Net income of $16.6 million and basic net income per share of $0.05;

All in Sustaining Cost ("AISC") 1 on a consolidated basis of $1,095 per ounce sold;

on a consolidated basis of $1,095 per ounce sold; Cash generated from operating activities of $25.5 million;

Working capital increase of 13% to $79.0 million at March 31, 2021, compared to $70.0 million at December 31, 2020;

Cash on hand of $58.2 million, a $5.0 million increase from December 31, 2020;

2021 production and cost guidance remain on track; Growth and exploration capital are currently expected to be H1 weighted;

More than 200% increase in Mineral Reserves to 864,000 ounces since year-end 2019; Largest Mineral Reserve since 2010 with the highest grade on record, 4.49 g/t Au 2 ;

High-grade drill results reported at Limon, including: 7.98 g/t Au over 6.8 metres at Atravesada underground; 8.92 g/t Au over 9.8 metres at Atravesada underground; 251.90 g/t Au over 1.0 metres at Limon Norte open pit; and 6.97 g/t Au over 6.1 metres at Panteon underground;

Commenced an 80,000 metre, 15 rig, resource expansion and discovery drill program focusing on satellite opportunities, emerging districts and near mill growth targets; and

Initiated a 5,500 metre drilling campaign on high priority near-surface copper and copper-gold mineralization with earn-in partner Rio Tinto Exploration ("Rio Tinto") on the Borosi concessions located in northeastern Nicaragua.



Darren Hall, President and Chief Executive Officer of Calibre, stated: "Calibre had a strong start to the year reflecting the integration and expansion of our 'hub-and-spoke' strategy. Limon to Libertad ore transport continues steadily at approximately 1,000 tonnes per day. As previously disclosed, we initiated mining and hauling high grade ore from Pavon Norte, leading to a 39% increased average grade milled during the quarter compared to Q1 2020. The addition of Pavon, which will continue to ramp up throughout the year, demonstrates the value of adding new mining spokes without the significant capital cost. The strong production numbers re-enforce our ability to meet guidance and therefore we expect to generate solid operating cash flows to self-fund our exploration and growth investments. With this in mind, we have turned our attention to the Eastern Borosi Project, where we have another high-grade inferred resource which we believe we can expand and develop to be our next mining spoke to feed Libertad."

CONSOLIDATED RESULTS - Q1 2021

Consolidated Financial Results

$'000 (except per share and per ounce amounts) Q1 2021

Q1 2020

Revenue $ 82,034 $ 61,370 Cost of sales (including depreciation and amortization) (52,074) (38,017) Operating income $ 29,960 $ 23,353 Net income $ 16,645 $ 12,640 Net income per share (basic) $ 0.05 $ 0.04 Net income per share (fully diluted) $ 0.05 $ 0.04 Cash generated from operating activities $ 25,522 $ 20,354 CAPEX: Mine development and PPE $ 15,261 $ 6,918 CAPEX: Exploration $ 4,660 $ 2,783 Average realized gold price ($/oz)1 $ 1,788 $ 1,584 Total Cash Costs ($/oz)1 $ 979 $ 897 AISC ($/oz)1 $ 1,095 $ 1,038

Consolidated Operational Results

Q1 2021 Q1 2020 Ore Mined (t) 485,654 587,584 Ore Milled (t) 419,340 524,100 Grade (g/t Au) 3.54 2.54 Recovery (%) 91.3 91.8 Gold Production (ounces) 45,452 42,085 Gold Sales (ounces) 45,882 38,755

OPERATING RESULTS

Open Pit Mining Operations

Open pit mine production consisted of 390,614 ore tonnes at an average grade of 3.32 g/t gold. Open pit mine production came from Limon Central ("LC") Phase 2 in the amount of 184,644 ore tonnes at an average grade of 3.50 g/t, Pavon Norte ore in the amount of 111,696 tonnes at a grade of 3.94 g/t, 86,558 tonnes at a grade of 0.48 g/t of previously processed "spent ore" and 7,716 ore tonnes at 21.46 g/t from artisanal small miners.

During the three months ended March 31, 2020, the Company mined 191,619 ore tonnes at an average grade of 4.39 g/t gold at Limon Central. During Q1 2020, Calibre mined ore from LC Phase 1 and was pre-stripping Phase 2 of LC Phase 2 at the time. The difference in grade of ore mined for LC in Q1 2021 compared to Q1 2020 related to mine sequencing. During Q1 2020, Calibre was mining the Jabali Antena open pit which totaled 120,696 ore tonnes at a grade of 2.73 g/t. The phase of Jabali Antena open pit was completed in Q4 2020 with some residual ore processed in Q1 2021, but the Company expects to resume operations at Jabali Antena in the future. The Company was able to efficiently transition mining operations from one open pit operation (Jabali Antena) and effectively replaced that level of mine production at Pavon Norte from Q4 2020 to Q1 2021. Also, during Q1 2020, Calibre utilized larger amounts of "spent ore", totaling 236,815 ore tonnes at an average grade of 0.73 g/t and purchased 6,246 ore tonnes at 13.12 g/t gold from artisanal small miners in the period.

Overall, the open pit mining grade rose from 2.57 g/t to 3.32 g/t, or 29% from Q1 2020 to Q1 2021 as a result of shifting from Jabali Antena to higher grade Pavon Norte ore, a significant reduction in use of lower grade "spent ore", and the higher gold content of artisanal small miner ore.

Waste ore tonnes were significantly reduced in Q1 2021 (4.5 million tonnes) compared to Q1 2020 (5.5 million tonnes) as the mining areas and stages changed period to period. In Q1 2021, waste material was mined from Pavon Norte (0.7 million tonnes) and LC Phase 2 (3.8 million tonnes), while during Q1 2020, waste tonnes were moved from Jabali Antena (2.3 million tonnes) and LC Phase 1 (1.2 million tonnes) and from LC Phase 2 (2.1 million tonnes) where the Company was performing a pre-stripping campaign.

Underground Mining Operations

Underground ore mined in Q1 2021 was 95,040 tonnes at a grade of 3.69 g/t compared to 29,920 ore tonnes mined in Q1 2020 at a grade of 3.87 g/t. Q1 2021 ore production was 45,055 tonnes at a grade of 3.12 g/t from Jabali UG, 21,695 tonnes at a grade of 3.44 g/t from Santa Pancha, 22,750 tonnes at a grade of 4.72 g/t at Veta Nueva and 5,539 tonnes at a grade of 5.05 g/t from development ore at Panteon.

Jabali UG was not in operation in Q1 2020 and resumed operations in Q3 2020. During Q3 and Q4 2020, the Jabali UG mine was being reconditioned. Calibre has steadily increased production since the restart of operations, with ore tonnes mined of 2,648, 25,252 and 45,055 in Q3 2020, Q4 2020 and Q1 2021, respectively.

The Veta Nueva underground mine reached commercial production in January 2021. The Panteon underground mine, which has delivered ore from development drifts in Q1 2021, is expected to deliver ore from stopes during the second quarter. The Company expects to commence ore deliveries from the Atravesada underground mine to the Libertad mill by the first quarter of 2023, which will begin development during the second quarter of 2021. Panteon and Atravesada are high-grade underground discoveries made during 2020.

PROCESSING OPERATIONS

Limon Mill

Q1 2021 Q1 2020 Ore Milled (t) 124,149 130,485 Grade (g/t Au) 4.42 5.11 Recovery (%) 89.3 89.5 Gold Production (ounces) 16,337 20,636 Gold Sales (ounces) 16,651 18,525

The mill at Limon produced 16,337 ounces driven by an average mill grade of 4.42 g/t gold and recovery of 89.3% from 124,149 tonnes of ore milled. Gold production at Limon in Q1 2021 was below Q1 2020 as a result of 13% lower grade, and 5% less ore processed. The lower grade ore was impacted by mine sequencing at the Limon Central open pit in Q1 2021.

Libertad Mill

Q1 2021 Q1 2020 Ore Milled (t) 295,191 393,615 Grade (g/t Au) 3.17 1.69 Recovery (%) 92.4 94.2 Gold Production (ounces) 29,115 21,449 Gold Sales (ounces) 29,231 20,230

The Libertad mill processed 295,191 tonnes of ore at a grade of 3.17 g/t in Q1 2021 vs 393,615 tonnes of ore at a grade of 1.69 g/t in Q1 2020. The decrease in tonnage was planned as the focus is to process higher grade ores, resulting in 29,115 ounces produced, an increase of 36% over Q1 2020. The higher-grade ores resulted from significantly more ore from Limon Central, ore from the start-up of the Pavon Norte mine, Jabali underground (which was on standby in Q1 2020) and ore from Artisanal miners.

The "hub-and-spoke" strategy to deliver ore to Libertad ramped up significantly over the last year with 86,855 tonnes of ore delivered to the Libertad processing facility in Q1 2021 at a grade of 3.36 g/t compared to 20,944 ore tonnes at a grade of 3.08 g/t delivered in Q1 2020 from Limon Central and development ore from Veta Nueva.

Pavon Norte is another example of the "hub-and-spoke" strategy for the Libertad processing facility. Calibre expects to gradually ramp up Pavon Norte mill feed haulage to approximately 1,000 tonnes per day by the end of 2021.

CONSOLIDATED Q1 2021 FINANCIAL REVIEW

Mining Operations

During Q1 2021, the Company sold 45,882 ounces of gold, at an average realized price (1) of $1,788 per ounce, for revenue of $82.0 million. This compares to Q1 2020 revenue of $61.4 million from selling 38,755 ounces at an average realized price (1) of $1,584 per ounce. The $20.6 million increase in revenue is the result of $12.7 million related to higher ounces sold and $7.9 million from higher realized gold prices.

Gold sold of 45,882 ounces in Q1 2021 was 7,127 ounces higher than Q1 2020 as a result of higher-grade ores processed at Libertad from significantly more ore from Limon Central, ore from the start-up of the Pavon Norte mine, Jabali underground (which was on standby in Q1 2020) and ore from artisanal small miners. The increased production directly results from our "hub-and-spoke" operating strategy to deliver additional ore to Libertad, which increased significantly over the prior year.

The total cost of sales for Q1 2021 was $52.1 million, which included production costs of $41.5 million, royalties and production taxes of $3.2 million, refinery and transportation of $0.3 million, and depreciation of $7.1 million.

Total production costs were $41.5 million in Q1 2021 compared to $32.1 million in Q1 2020 from 18% higher gold sales, lower grade ore mined from the Limon Central pit from mine sequencing and higher costs from the Jabali underground mine. Q1 2020 benefited from the lower cost Jabali Antena open pit mine ore, which concluded its mining phase at the end of 2020. Royalty, production taxes, refinery and transport increased 27% in Q1 2021 compared to Q1 2020, in line with the 34% increase in gross revenue. Depreciation and amortization in Q1 2021 was $7.1 million compared to $3.2 million for Q1 2020. The higher depreciation in Q1 2021 relates to higher gold sales, mining more reserves as it relates to the updated reserves and resource as of December 31, 2020 and an updated interpretation of the Limon Central pit.

The increase in gross revenue from higher gold sales, partially offset by increases in production costs, resulted in mine operating income for Q1 2021 of $30.0 million, a favourable increase of 28% from Q1 2020 of $23.4 million.

Total Cash Costs (1) for Q1 2021 were $979 per ounce, and AISC (1) was $1,095 per ounce. For Q1 2020, Total Cash Costs (1) were $897, and AISC (1) was $1,038 per ounce. The higher costs in 2021 relate to lower-grade ore mined from Limon Central in 2021 from mine sequencing and higher sustaining capital from Jabali underground and Veta Neuva development.

Total Cash Costs (1) of $979 and AISC (1) of $1,095 per ounce for Q1 2021 are in line with annual guidance issued on January 12, 2021, being Total Cash Costs (1) of between $950 to $1,050 and AISC of between $1,040 to $1,140 per ounce.

Expenses and Net Income

For the three months ended March 31, 2021, corporate G&A was $2.0 million compared to $2.4 million for the same period in Q1 2020 from lower consulting and professional fees, and reduced travel and investor relations activities which were impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Share-based compensation for Q1 2021 was $0.7 million (Q1 2020 - $1.4 million). The reduction in expense year-over-year relates to the Company's vesting of options and RSUs granted in prior years, specifically a portion of awards that have now vested related to options and RSUs in October 2019 combined with the forfeiture of certain options and RSUs during Q1 2021.

Total finance expense for Q1 2021 was $0.3 million versus $0.7 million in Q1 2020. Q1 2020 included $0.4 million on accretion on the deferred payment to B2Gold which was paid off in full in Q4 2020.

Current and deferred income tax expense was $10.4 million during Q1 2021 and $6.6 million for Q1 2020. Q1 2021 saw an increase in current and deferred tax expense when compared to Q1 2020. Ad Valorem rose due to higher revenues and increases in accruals for anticipated higher corporate taxes in 2021, due to having lower benefits of loss-carry forwards in Nicaragua which were entirely utilized the first quarter of 2021.

As a result of the above, net income per share in Q1 2021 was $0.05 (Q1 2020: $0.04) for both basic and diluted.

2021 OUTLOOK (based on a gold price assumption of $1,800 per ounce)

Consolidated Gold Production/Sales (ounces) 170,000 - 180,000 Total Cash Costs1 ($/ounce) $950 - $1,050 AISC1 ($/ounce) $1,040 - $1,140 Growth Capital ($ million) $35 - $40 Exploration Capital ($ million) $14 - $17 G&A ($ million) $7 - $8

2021Growth Capital: Summary/Analysis - Figure 1 (https://calibremining.com/site/assets/files/4486/2021-01-12-cxb-f1.png)

2021Exploration Capital: Summary/Analysis - Figure 2 (https://calibremining.com/site/assets/files/4486/2021-01-12-cxb-f2.png)

The Company's initial guidance for 2021 represents a production increase of approximately 30% from 2020 gold production at a marginally higher AISC1 (an increase of approximately 5% using the mid-point of guidance).

Growth capital outside AISC1 includes underground development at Panteon to bring on a second, high-grade ore shoot, Pavon for the start-up of the mine and Limon stripping in excess of the planned life-of-mine stripping rate, land acquisition and advancing our Eastern Borosi Project, which is expected to be the next "spoke" for the Libertad complex.

Q1 2021 FINANCIAL RESULTS CONFERENCE CALL DETAILS

First-quarter financial results will be released after market close on Monday, May 3, 2021, and management will be hosting a conference call to discuss the results and outlook in more detail.

Date: Tuesday, May 4, 2021 Time: 10:00 a.m. (EDT) Dial-in: +1 (866) 221-1882 or +1 (470) 495-9179 (International) Webcast Link: https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/959r9vnh (https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/959r9vnh) Conference ID: 2695652

The live webcast can be accessed here (https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/959r9vnh) or at www.calibremining.com (http://www.calibremining.com) under the Events and Media section under the Investors tab. The live audio webcast will be archived and made available for replay at www.calibremining.com (http://www.calibremining.com). Presentation slides that will accompany the conference call will be made available in the Investors section of the Calibre website under Presentations prior to the conference call.



Qualified Person

Darren Hall, MAusIMM President and Chief Executive Officer of Calibre Mining Corp. is a "qualified person" as set out under NI 43-101 has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information in this news release.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

"Darren Hall"

Darren Hall

President and Chief Executive Officer

For further information, please contact:

Ryan King

Vice President, Corporate Development & IR

T: 604.628.1010

E: calibre@calibremining.com (mailto:calibre@calibremining.com)

W: www.calibremining.com



About Calibre Mining Corp.

Calibre Mining is a Canadian-listed gold mining and exploration company with two 100%-owned operating gold mines in Nicaragua. The Company is focused on sustainable operating performance and a disciplined approach to growth. Since the acquisition of the Limon, Libertad gold mines and Pavon Gold Project, Calibre has proceeded to integrate its operations into a 'hub-and-spoke' operating philosophy whereby the Company can take advantage of reliable infrastructure, favorable transportation costs, and multiple high-grade ore sources that can be processed at either Limon or Libertad, which have a combined 2.7 million tonnes of annual mill throughput capacity.

Note 1: Non-IFRS Measures:

Calibre has included certain non-IFRS measures in this news release, as discussed below. The Company believes that these measures, in addition to conventional measures prepared in accordance with IFRS, provides investors with an improved ability to evaluate the underlying performance of the Company. These non-IFRS measures are intended to provide additional information and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. These measures do not have any standardized meaning prescribed under IFRS, and therefore may not be comparable to other issuers.

Total Cash Costs per Ounce of Gold Sold ("Total Cash Costs")

Total Cash Costs include mine site operating costs such as mining, processing, and local administrative costs (including stock-based compensation related to mine operations), royalties, production taxes, mine standby costs and current inventory write-downs, if any. Production costs are exclusive of depreciation and depletion, reclamation, capital, and exploration costs. Total Cash Costs are net of by-product silver sales and are divided by gold ounces sold to arrive at a per ounce figure.

All-In Sustaining Costs per Ounce of Gold Sold ("AISC")

AISC is a performance measure that reflects the expenditures that are required to produce an ounce of gold from current operations. While there is no standardized meaning of the measure across the industry, the Company's definition is derived from the definition, as set out by the World Gold Council in its guidance dated June 27, 2013 and November 16, 2018, respectively. The World Gold Council is a non-regulatory, non-profit organization established in 1987 whose members include global senior mining companies. The Company believes that this measure is useful to external users in assessing operating performance and the ability to generate free cash flow from operations.

Calibre defines AISC as the sum of Total Cash Costs (per above), sustaining capital (capital required to maintain current operations at existing production levels), capital lease repayments, corporate general and administrative expenses, exploration expenditures designed to increase resource confidence at producing mines, amortization of asset retirement costs and rehabilitation accretion related to current operations. AISC excludes capital expenditures for significant improvements at existing operations deemed to be expansionary in nature, exploration and evaluation related to resource growth, rehabilitation accretion not related to current operations, financing costs, debt repayments, and taxes. Total AISC is divided by gold ounces sold to arrive at a per ounce figure.

Average Realized Price per Ounce Sold

Average realized price per ounce sold is a common performance measure that does not have any standardized meaning. The most directly comparable measure prepared in accordance with IFRS is revenue from gold sales.

Note 2: Technical Reports:

Technical Report on El Limon Complex, Leon and Chinandego Departments, Nicaragua dated March 30, 2021 and effective December 31, 2020 prepared by SLR Consulting (Canada) Ltd., (formerly Roscoe Postle Associates Inc.) in accordance with NI 43-101 as filed on SEDAR (www.sedar.com (http://www.sedar.com)).

Technical Report on La Libertad Complex, Nicaragua dated March 30, 2021 and effective December 31, 2020 prepared by SLR Consulting (Canada) Ltd., (formerly Roscoe Postle Associates Inc.) in accordance with NI 43-101 as filed on SEDAR (www.sedar.com).

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Information

This news release includes certain "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation, including: the Company's projected gold production from Limon (the "Limon Production"); the Company's projected gold production from Libertad (the "Libertad Production"); and outlook, guidance, forecasts, or estimates relating to the Limon Production or the Libertad Production. All statements in this news release that address events or developments that we expect to occur in the future are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are often identified by words such as "expect", "plan", "anticipate", "project", "target", "potential", "schedule", "forecast", "budget", "estimate", "intend" or "believe" and similar expressions or their negative connotations, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could", "should" or "might" occur. Forward-looking statements necessarily involve assumptions, risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond Calibre's control. For a listing of risk factors applicable to the Company, please refer to the Company's Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2020, available on www.sedar.com. This list is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect Calibre's forward-looking statements.

Calibre's forward-looking statements are based on the applicable assumptions and factors management considers reasonable as of the date hereof, based on the information available to management at such time. Calibre does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking statements if circumstances or management's beliefs, expectations or opinions should change other than as required by applicable securities laws. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results, performance or achievements could differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements. Accordingly, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements.




Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - May 3, 2021) - LevelJump Healthcare Corp. (TSXV: JUMP) (FSE: 75J) ("LevelJump" or the "Company"), a Canadian leader in B2B telehealth solutions, announces a change in the board of directors.

Effective May 3, 2021, Mr. Michael Newman has resigned from the board of directors of the Company.

"We thank Mr. Newman for his time on the board during our going public process." Said Mitch Geisler, CEO. "Moving forward the board will be looking to replace the vacant seat by identifying a person with expertise in our field who can help the Company implement our long term growth plans."

About LevelJump Healthcare

LevelJump Healthcare Corp., (TSXV: JUMP) is building a national medical diagnostic imaging company and brand, primarily by providing teleradiology (remote radiology) services to its client hospitals and imaging centers. Additionally, JUMP plans to expand through the acquisition of independent healthcare facilities focused on diagnostic imaging as well as acquiring new disruptive imaging technologies.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF

LEVELJUMP HEALTHCARE CORP.

Mitchell Geisler, Chief Executive Officer

info@leveljumphealthcare.com

(833) 840-2020

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws relating to the Company's business plans and the outlook of the Company's industry. Although the Company believes, in light of the experience of its officers and directors, current conditions and expected future developments and other factors that have been considered appropriate, that the expectations reflected in this forward-looking information are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on them because the Company can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements. The statements in this press release are made as of the date of this release and the Company assumes no responsibility to update them or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances other than as required by applicable securities laws. The Company undertakes no obligation to comment on analyses, expectations or statements made by third-parties in respect of the Company, Canadian Teleradiology Services, Inc., their securities, or their respective financial or operating results (as applicable).

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 release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/82712
Expects to file its 2020 Annual Financial Statements on or before May 31, 2021

Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - May 3, 2021) - Matica Enterprises Inc. (CSE: MMJ) (FSE: 39N) (OTCQB: MMJFF) ("Matica" or the "Company") today announced that, as a result of the COVID 19 Pandemic measures, it was not able to file its audited annual financial statements, the related management's discussion and analysis and the related CEO and CFO certificates (the "Annual Filings") before the required deadline of April 30, 2021 (the "Specified Requirements").

Matica applied for and has been granted by the Ontario Securities Commission (its principal regulator), a management cease trade order ("MCTO") under National Policy 12-203 - Management Cease Trade Orders ("NP 12-203") over the duration of the default. The MCTO will generally not affect the ability of persons who have not been directors, officers or insiders of Matica to trade in their securities.

The Company is working closely with its auditor and expects to file the Annual Filings on or before May 31, 2021 and will issue a news release announcing completion of such filings at such time. The Company does not anticipate any delay in filing its interim financial statements, management's discussion and analysis, and the related officer certifications for the financial period ended March 31, 2021.

The Company is providing this press release in accordance with National Policy 12-203 Management Cease Trade Orders ("NP 12-203"). Until the Company files the Annual Filings, it will comply with the alternative information guidelines set out in National Policy 12-203 - Management Cease Trade Order for issuers who have failed to comply with a specified continuous disclosure requirement within the times prescribed by applicable securities laws. The guidelines, among other things, require the Company to issue bi-weekly default status reports by way of a news release so long as the Annual Filings have not been filed. The Company confirms as of the date of this news release that there is no other material information concerning the affairs of the Company that has not been generally disclosed.

About Matica

Matica is a multi-faceted, innovative company in the Quebec cannabis space. Its subsidiary, RoyalMax Biotechnology Canada Inc. is a Dorval, Quebec based Health Canada Licence Holder. RoyalMax has been granted a standard cultivation licence, standard processing and medical sales licences by Health Canada.

For more information on Matica Enterprises please visit the website at: www.maticaenterprises.com.

On behalf of the Board of Directors

MATICA ENTERPRISES INC.

Boris Ziger

Boris Ziger, CEO & Chairman

The Company's public filings are available for review at www.sedar.com and www.thecse.com.

For further information, please contact Boris Ziger, at:

Telephone: 416-304-9935

E-mail: info@maticaenterprises.com

Website: www.maticaenterprises.com , www.maticammj.com

Disclaimer for Forward-Looking Information

Certain information in this press release may constitute forward-looking information. This information is based on current expectations that are subject to significant risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict. Actual results might differ materially from results suggested in any forward-looking statements. The Corporation assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements, or to update the reasons why actual results could differ from those reflected in the forward looking-statements unless and until required by securities laws applicable to the Corporation. Additional information identifying risks and uncertainties is contained in the Corporation's filings with the Canadian securities regulators, which filings are available at www.sedar.com.

This news release contains statements about the Company's information that may be made available on the S&P Capital IQ Corporation Records Listing Program and the business of Matica that are forward-looking in nature and as a result, are subject to certain risks and uncertainties. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on them as actual results may differ materially from the forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date hereof, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements or information, except as required by law.

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 release. We seek Safe Harbor.

This news release is not for distribution or dissemination in the United States of America

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/82748
Rep. Song Young-gil, second from left, the new chairman of the ruling Democratic Party of Korea, presides over the party's Supreme Council meeting at the National Assembly, Monday. Yonhap



By Jung Da-min



With about 10 months left before the next presidential election slated for March 2022, Rep. Song Young-gil, the new chairman of the ruling Democratic Party of Korea (DPK), is tasked with instituting reforms so that the party will not see a repeat of the crushing defeat in the April 7 mayoral by-elections for Seoul and Busan.



Although he pledged full-fledged changes, it is yet to be seen whether this will be possible as most other members in the party leadership are close to President Moon Jae-in and want to stick with the current policies of the administration.



Song, a five-term lawmaker and head of the National Assembly Foreign Affairs and Unification Committee, was elected as the new chairman at a DPK convention Sunday.



The selection of new leadership came after the party's hammering by the main opposition People Power Party (PPP) in the by-elections, which were widely seen as a barometer for the next presidential election.



Regarding this, the political situation is unfavorable for the ruling party as public opinion has been worsening over multiple policy failures, especially the administration's failed attempts to stabilize the real estate market and delays in the supply of COVID-19 vaccines.



Recent polls have shown that the approval ratings for both President Moon and the DPK are continuing to decline. In a poll released Monday by Realmeter, the President's approval rating was 33 percent, his lowest ever, while the DPK's 27.8 percent was also the lowest since the inauguration of the Moon administration.



At a press conference at the National Assembly, Monday, Song vowed all-out efforts to overcome the ruling bloc's crisis. In terms of policy drives, he said the party would focus on stabilizing the housing estate market and increasing the supply of COVID-19 vaccines. Additionally, Song said he would focus on harmonizing the different voices within the party, and pay more attention to the opinions of the general public, recognizing the criticism that certain "loud" party members are estranging the party from the people.



"We will try to push ahead with efficient reform of the party. To do so, we need to listen to various voices from the public rather than listening to those who have strong voices based on biased views. By doing so, we can gain an objective and balanced view on public opinion and present policies in accordance with it," Song told reporters.



"The most important thing is to strengthen democratic communication among the 174 lawmakers of the party. The party's defeat in the April 7 by-elections showed that such democratic communication inside the party had been broken."



Song added that the new leadership would especially try to listen to those in their 20s and 30s.



Political watchers said how to successfully manage the next presidential election race could be most important task for Song. They said the ruling party should carry out overall reform which reflects public opinion more.



"The DPK needs to expand the scope of its support base, by successfully managing its presidential candidates. It will also need to bring in some fresh figures from outside the party while applying fair rules in its presidential candidate selection," Park Sang-byoung, a political commentator, said. "The party needs to run the candidate selection in a dramatic and exciting way, so that many people will be interested in watching it."



Political watchers also said that it will be important for the new leadership to find unity among enthusiastic supporters of the party and party members who have different opinions.



"Many people say that uninterrupted reform itself is reform, but it must go along with public sentiment. If the ruling party focuses on causes or slogans and neglects the issue of the general public's livelihood, that is not true reform," said Cha Jae-won, a professor of special affairs at the Catholic University of Pusan.



However, Song faces five Supreme Council members who are so-called "pro-Moon" figures that actively support the President's various policies such as prosecutorial reform. They have said the party should support the President to push ahead with such measures, showing a marked difference from the new chairman's stance.




Barkyn, a Porto, Portugal-based provider of a subscription service for pets that combines personalized healthy food with tele-vet services, raised a further 3m in Series A funding.

The round, which extended the Series A to 8m, was led by FoodTech specialist Five Seasons Ventures. The firm joined previous investors Indico Capital Partners, All Iron Ventures, Portugal Ventures and Shilling Capital,

The company intends to use the funds to create new products, enhance the existing nutrition and tele-vet service, and expand the business.

Founded by Andre Jordao and Ricardo Macedo in 2017, Barkyn delivers personalised food and online vet assistance for dogs. The brand has more than 50 products, ranging from food formulas, snacks and food supplements, supported by an internal network of more than 30 veterinarians.

Customers start by completing a one-minute questionnaire and the food is personalised based on the dogs age, size, lifestyle and allergies, with the flavour they like.

Recently, the company created Barkyn Complex, a trademarked anti-inflammatory supplement that can help decrease the probability of cancer and launched a pet insurance product to its customers in Portugal to provide all-around support for pets and their owners.

The companys team of 50 is present across Southern Europe in Portugal, Spain and Italy.

Barkyn currently serves customers in Spain, Portugal and Italy.

FinSMEs

04/05/2021
Bux, an Amsterdam, The Netherlands-based neo-broker, raised USD80m in follow-financing round.

The round was led by Prosus Ventures and Tencent, with participation from additional new investors ABN Amro Ventures, Citius, Optiver, and Endeit Capital and existing investors HV Capital and Velocity Capital Fintech Ventures.

The company intends to use the capital to expand its investment app in other European countries.

Founded by Nick Bortot, who handed over the reins to new CEO Yorick Naeff, Bux With over 500,000 customers, Bux is a neo-broker whose flagship platform, BUX Zero, makes commission-free investing accessible for both first time and existing investors allowing them to invest in a large suite of shares or ETFs. The platform is currently available in the Netherlands, Germany, Austria, France and Belgium. The full range of the companys products, including BUX Crypto which allows users to invest in real cryptocurrencies, and BUX X, where users can trade in contracts for difference (CFDs), are available across Europe.

FinSMEs

03/05/2021
Seven Senders, CEO, Dr. Johannes Plehn, COO, Dr. Thorben Seiler, CEO, Thomas Hagemann

Seven Senders, a Berlin, Germany-based delivery platform for parcel

shipping, raised a USD 40m series C financing round.

The round was led by Digital+ Partners, with participation from btov.

The company intends to use the funds for further technical expansion and the advancement of its internationalization strategy, including central service hubs to support the European business activities of Chinese and US online retailers.

Founded in 2015 by Johannes Plehn and Thomas Hagemann, Seven Senders is a platform which connects senders with its carrier network of more than 100 parcel delivery agents throughout Europe to offer local shipping. It features automated dispatch notifications and tracking and monitoring solutions, monthly reports and analysis that facilitate data-based optimization of international shipping performance.

FinSMEs

03/05/2021
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Paxton, IL (60957)

Today

Rain and scattered thunderstorms for the afternoon. High near 80F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 100%..

Tonight

Mostly cloudy this evening with showers developing after midnight. Thunder possible. Low 67F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 30%.
Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@nyu.edu. Visit www.bobatthemovies.com for a chance to recommend movies to review between now and the time theaters reopen.
Pine Village students stand with Roger Sparenberg, Soil and Water Conservation District Board member, (back) after they were presented with trees for Arbor Day from the district. Pictured are, front row: Kade Fulkerson, Kailey Serie, Easton Dilks, Gwen Cunningham, Joe Spencer, Charlotte Pruitt, Wyatt Nern; back row: Nevaeh Lees, Khloe Kiefer, Hayden Sparenberg, Alex Piercy, Gavin Bellah, Skylar Riggs, Izzy Johnson and Mikaela Crawley.

Photo contributed
Gov. Steve Sisolak gives an update on the state's COVID-19 response at the Sawyer Building in Las Vegas on Thursday, Sept. 3, 2020. (Chase Stevens/Las Vegas Review-Journal, pool)
United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken, first left, wearing a face mask, speaks to South Korea's Foreign Minister Chung Eui-yong, first right, during bilateral talks on the sidelines of a G7 foreign ministers meeting, at the Grosvenor House Hotel, London, Monday. Yonhap



Foreign Minister Chung Eui-yong and his U.S. counterpart, Antony Blinken, agreed Monday to continue close cooperation for complete denuclearization and lasting peace on the Korean Peninsula, the foreign ministry said.



The agreement came as they met bilaterally on the margins of a gathering of G7 foreign and development ministers in London, after the Joe Biden administration completed its review of policy toward Pyongyang.



"Secretary Blinken shared the results of the U.S.' review of policy on the North, and Minister Chung welcomed the fact that the result of the review was decided in a realistic, practical direction," the ministry said in a press release.



"The minister and secretary agreed to continue close cooperation for the complete denuclearization and the establishment of lasting peace on the Korean Peninsula," it added.



The meeting came after the White House said Friday that Washington had completed the policy review, and that it will seek a "calibrated, practical" approach toward the goal of the complete denuclearization of the peninsula.



At the talks, the two sides also agreed to closely cooperate to ensure that the summit between Presidents Moon Jae-in and Biden, slated to take place in Washington on May 21, will proceed successfully.



Blinken said that Biden is looking forward to meeting with Moon and that the planned in-person summit early in his term and in the midst of the pandemic highlights that Washington greatly values the South Korea-U.S. alliance, according to the ministry.



Chung and Blinken also agreed to strengthen cooperation in efforts to find common ground between their governments' regional policies  the New Southern Policy and the Indo-Pacific initiative  and collaboration over access to COVID-19 vaccines, climate change and other issues.



Though not party to the G7 grouping, South Korea, Australia, India, South Africa and Brunei, the chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, have been invited to the forum as guests.



Also on the sidelines of the multilateral forum, Chung, Blinken and Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi are expected to hold a trilateral session. If realized, the meeting will mark the first talks between Chung and Motegi. (Yonhap)


With minutes to spare, a Hahnville High School teacher in Boutte, Louisiana, traded shoes with a senior so he could walk at his graduation after allegedly violating the dress code.
A 29-year-old man has been arrested in connection with a string of attacks on synagogues and Jewish centers in the Bronx, the New York Police Department said. The NYPD posted video from one of the synagogue attacks.
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New DPK chairman should reflect diverse opinions



The ruling Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) elected five-term lawmaker Song Young-gil as its new chairman during its convention Sunday. In a highly-contested race, Song, a former Incheon mayor, earned 35.6 percent of the vote, defeating runner-up Rep. Hong Young-pyo by 0.59 percentage points. The party also selected five Supreme Council members  Reps. Kim Yong-min, Kim Young-bae, Back Hye-ryun, Kang Byung-won and Jun Hye-sook.



We believe the DPK members have chosen Song, widely regarded as representing the party's non-mainstreamers, as the new chairman with expectations that he will rebuild the party following its humiliating defeat in the April 7 mayoral by-elections in Seoul and Busan. He is also tasked with managing a primary election to choose the party's candidate for the next presidential election slated for March 2022.



In an interview with the press after he was elected, Song vowed to do everything possible to rectify the party's past mistakes and set out better policies to contain the surging COVID-19 pandemic and stabilize the overheated housing market. The change in the party leadership was inevitable as the DPK and the government's policy failures led directly to the crushing loss in the by-elections. It is necessary for Song to promote close consultations and coordination between the party and the government in the policymaking process.



In an acceptance speech Song promised to do his best to comply with the voters' call for change. He cited five key issues  housing, vaccinations, semiconductors, climate change and a peace process on the Korean Peninsula  on which he will focus to ensure the success of the President Moon Jae-in administration.



His most pressing task is how to speed up much-needed party reform to better reflect diverse opinions from all walks of life. However, it is worrisome that the new lineup of the party's top decision-making Supreme Council is composed of hardline pro-Moon figures.



Song pledged more efforts to strengthen intraparty communications, yet at the same time he needs to come to terms with the pro-Moon hardliners who have been under growing criticism for their wayward behavior and lack of capability in dealing with major pending issues.



According to a recent survey conducted by Gallup Korea, President Moon's approval rating plummeted to 29 percent. This means Moon is on the verge of becoming a lame duck president about a year before his term ends in May 2022. Against this backdrop, the ruling party should keep in mind that if it fails to push for internal reform and perform better, it may face a rocky road ahead.



The DPK should do all it can to seek cooperation from the opposition parties, despite its supermajority of 174 seats in the 300-member National Assembly. In this vein, Moon's invitation to Rep. Kim Gi-hyeon, the newly elected floor leader of the main opposition People Power Party (PPP), for a luncheon is seen as a positive step  although Kim flatly rejected it. The ruling camp, however, should continue its efforts to have dialogue with the opposition, and listen to the people in a more humble manner.


The following blog post, unless otherwise noted, was written by a member of Gamasutras community.

The thoughts and opinions expressed are those of the writer and not Gamasutra or its parent company.

As a business leader, the American Families Plan and the introduction of Paid Time Off for all American workers is something I thought was only available in dreams. Just by proposing the idea, this administration has moved that dream to a tangible reality. The American Families Plan not only helps businesses provide benefits they may have struggled to in the past, but it also is good for everyone who makes use of the benefits. Expanding paid leave for all companies is good for the economy and for the people. I urge Congress to pass this legislation to support our great employees.

As a proud graduate of a Head Start Program, the universal access to two years of Pre-K is a tremendous step in investing in our childrens and our Nations future. The fact that it is two years is also not lost on me. As a child in Elementary School, people would often ask me, How did you get so smart? My response was, Well, I did Preschool twice. While I thought I was providing a modest answer, it later occurred to me that this answer could be interpreted in a variety of ways. Now, I see just how influential those two years can be. Head Start provided not only education and social interaction, but free transportation to the school, free meals, and someone to tell me to brush my teeth after lunch. I only now realize how powerfully independent it is for a four-year-old to get on a bus by themselves.

As the daughter of a mother who has made $2.13 for well over thirty years and who does not have access to paid leave, I look to the American Families Plan to finally support workers like her. I want to live in a world where workers do not fear retribution for taking a sick day. A world so many low-wage workers cannot fathom.

As someone who makes policy that affects over 200 peoples lives every day, being a good leader means never losing sight of the individual. Policies are made to address trends, but they affect individuals. The American Families Plan sees people. It sees our struggles and our needs. No one should have to choose between a sick child, their own health, or a paycheck. Workers need the flexibility to address their concerns outside of the workplace without the extra burden of going unpaid for the time off. Treating people with dignity also encourages retention, which is good for the bottom line. Having workers who can take the time they need without fear allows for a more productive and healthy workforce.
Food pantry for veterans and active military members and their families, American Legion Post 10, 1215 Pacific Blvd. SE, Albany. Call 541-926-0127 between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Mondays through Fridays for more information.

Corvallis School District free grab-and-go breakfast, lunch and dinner for all children 18 years old or under. Open 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Adams Elementary School, 1615 SW 35th St.; Lincoln Elementary School, 110 SE Alexander Ave.; Mountain View Elementary School, 340 NE Granger Ave.; Wildcat Elementary School, 2701 NW Satinwood St.; Cheldelin Middle School, 987 NE Conifer Blvd.; and Linus Pauling Middle School, 1111 NW Cleveland Ave. Philomath Middle School, 2021 Chapel Drive, will distribute meals from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Mondays only. Each child will receive three meals for Monday and three meals for Tuesday. Families are welcome to pick up meals in Corvallis on the other days. Three meals daily are available for students attending school in person at Corvallis and Philomath schools. Pre-order is encouraged. Information: 541-757-5859 or csd509j.
By John Burton





It may not be surprising that, among the topics that will be discussed between President Moon Jae-in and President Joe Biden at their scheduled summit meeting in Washington, D.C., on May 21, will be North Korea, climate change and cooperation on COVID-19 vaccines. But more noteworthy is that semiconductors will also be high on the agenda.



This fact is an acknowledgement that Korea has become a semiconductor superpower, and its importance as a supplier has been highlighted by the current global shortage of chips.



President Moon was right in recently describing the semiconductor sector as a core national strategic industry that could determine the future of the economy. Korea's leadership in the semiconductor industry gives it unprecedented power in commanding global supply chains. Just as countries that produced oil  black gold  dominated the 20th century, so could countries producing chips  digital gold dominate the 21st century.



It is for this reason that the U.S. is now focusing on semiconductors as a key bilateral issue with Korea, when Biden is pushing for aggressive investments in chip manufacturing at home. Washington is worried that the U.S. is falling behind chip manufacturing, as production is becoming more concentrated in Korea and Taiwan, both of which are facing increased geostrategic threats from China.



The three leading global chip producers are Samsung Electronics in Korea, TSMC in Taiwan and Intel in the U.S. Meanwhile, China, which is five to ten years behind in development, is spending heavily in a race to catch up as the U.S. imposes bans on technology transfers.



The issue has taken on urgency due to a slowdown in chip production since the start of 2021, which temporarily closed car plants from the U.K. to Korea. This slowdown highlighted how the internet-connected world has become increasingly dependent on chips. Semiconductor demand will only grow, since semiconductors power everything from smartphones and electric vehicles to industrial machines and artificial intelligence.



This situation bodes well for Samsung and its smaller domestic rival, SK hynix, in one sense, since the industry concentration gives them increased pricing power. Higher profits means they have the capital to invest in ever more costly chip plants, further cementing their dominance. Samsung is planning to spend more than $100 billion on its chip business over the next decade.



But their industry dominance also underscores their political importance in the escalating Sino-American technological cold war, when an estimated 80 percent of the world's chip-making capacity is in Asia. President Biden has called for strengthening America's semiconductor supply chain, and money has been allotted in his giant infrastructure plan to build more chip plants in the U.S.



As a result, pressure is growing on Samsung to add at least one more American chip plant to one it is already operating in Austin, Texas, in return for U.S. subsidies.



It was recently revealed that Samsung is considering building a new $17-billion chip plant in either Texas, Arizona or New York by the end of 2023.



The move does not reflect direct pressure from Washington, but rather demands from some of Samsung's biggest American clients, including IBM, Qualcomm and Tesla. They desire a secure site in the U.S., and want access to a more advanced facility rather than Samsung's aging plant in Austin.



Samsung also needs a new leading-edge plant in the U.S. to better compete against its biggest and fiercest rival, TSMC, which is building a facility in Arizona by 2024 to improve delivery times to customers. Initial plans suggest that the Samsung plant will be bigger than the TSMC Arizona facility.



The diversification of Samsung chip plants outside of Korea may make commercial sense, but it poses a potential threat to the Korean economy. The manufacturing of semiconductors has been cited as a key reason why the Korean economy has stayed buoyant during the COVID-19 pandemic over the past year. The relocation of at least one big plant overseas will mean less business for affiliated sectors at home.



Korea's economic dependence on semiconductors also presents it with a geostrategic dilemma, as Seoul seeks to navigate rising Sino-American tensions, since China is also a big customer of Korean chips. With Washington encouraging Samsung to invest in the U.S., will Beijing apply similar pressure on Samsung to build more plants in China?



Samsung's sole semiconductor factory in China, which it recently expanded, makes only memory chips, unlike the cutting-edge chips that it produces in Korea and plans to produce in the U.S.



Pressure from both the U.S. and China could increase. Washington might tighten export controls that would prevent any foreign chipmaker, including Samsung, from using American equipment to produce chips for Chinese clients, as already is the case for Huawei, the Chinese telecom giant. Meanwhile, Beijing could threaten not to meditate on the North Korean nuclear issue, if Korea refuses to play ball on the chips issue.





John Burton (johnburtonft@yahoo.com), a former Korea correspondent for the Financial Times, is a Washington, D.C.-based journalist and consultant.


Welcome to my genealogy blog. Genea-Musings features genealogy research tips and techniques, genealogy news items and commentary, genealogy humor, San Diego genealogy society news, family history research and some family history stories from the keyboard of Randy Seaver (of Chula Vista CA), who thinks that Genealogy Research Is really FUN! Copyright (c) Randall J. Seaver, 2006-2021.
Gillette, WY (82718)

Today

Mostly sunny. Hot. High 93F. Winds NW at 5 to 10 mph, becoming SSE and increasing to 10 to 20 mph..

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Windy with mostly clear skies. Low 64F. Winds SSE at 20 to 30 mph.
China Business Summit highlights China-New Zealand relations, cooperation

Xinhua) 13:30, May 03, 2021

The China Business Summit 2021 highlighted the importance of China-New Zealand relations and cooperation on Monday.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern delivered her keynote speech on New Zealand-China relations and her government's China policy by reiterating the importance of the bilateral relations.

"New Zealand's relationship with China is one of our most significant. Our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership continues to provide a strong foundation for the relationship. And we remain committed to our 'one-China' policy," said Ardern.

"Trade in goods between our two countries has remained resilient despite the challenges of COVID-19, with overall exports remained strong. Two-way trade flows are now well in excess of 30 billion New Zealand dollars per year," said Ardern.

Ardern also mentioned seeking common grounds on some important issues in the bilateral relations.

"Given our two countries' different histories, world views and political and legal systems, New Zealand and China are going to take different perspectives on some important issues. We will continue to work through these in a consistent manner, as we have always done," said Ardern.

As the host of APEC in 2021, Ardern believed that New Zealand has a unique opportunity as the chair, to play a role in shaping the future of the Asia-Pacific.

"We look forward to working closely with China and our other APEC partners to realise our aspiration for an open, dynamic, resilient and peaceful Asia-Pacific community by 2040, and I look forward to my discussions with President Xi in APEC later this year," said Ardern.

Looking ahead, Ardern said that next year will be the fiftieth anniversary of diplomatic relations between New Zealand and China.

"Relations between the peoples of our two countries stretch back much further in history, but fifty years of official recognition and cooperation is an achievement we'll all want to celebrate," said Ardern.

Chinese Ambassador to New Zealand Wu Xi also delivered her keynote speech on China-New Zealand relations at the summit.

"Thanks to concerted efforts by both sides, our relations have maintained healthy and stable development for a long time. We have offered each other invaluable support in fields such as pandemic prevention and economic revitalization, and maintained sound coordination and cooperation in international affairs," she said.

The protocol on upgrading the FTA will create new prospects for mutually beneficial cooperation, the Chinese ambassador said, adding that with the improvement of development quality and the scale of the Chinese economy, the two countries can actively explore and foster new growth drivers in health, aged care, education, e-commerce, climate change, science and technology and other fields.

"We have created many 'firsts' in our relations. Though we are different in social systems, stages of development and economic size, we have forged common ground and deepened beneficial cooperation. China is ready to work with New Zealand to push for greater development of the China-New Zealand comprehensive strategic partnership by upholding the spirit of 'striving to be the first'," said the ambassador.

New Zealand Minister for Trade and Export Growth Damien O'Connor talked about New Zealand's trade relations with China in his speech. He acknowledged the extraordinary success of New Zealand-China bilateral trade, propelled by the Free Trade Agreement the two countries signed in 2008.

"Ours is a trade relationship that is complementary, and from which both sides benefit," said O'Connor. "I am reaffirming the government's commitment to New Zealand's trade relationship with China, an important market for us."

Former Prime Minister John Key and Helen Clark attended the summit by delivering their respective keynote speeches and sat in panel discussion with Air New Zealand Chief Executive Greg Foran.

Keynote speeches were also delivered by business leaders, industrial representatives and academia from New Zealand and Australia.

The China Business Summit 2021 is the seventh annual summit on New Zealand-China relations organised by trade advocacy NZ Inc. and the Auckland Business Chamber.

(Web editor: Zhange Wenjie, Bianji)




Hyundai Mobis' concept car, M.Vision X / Courtesy of Hyundai Mobis



By Kim Hyun-bin



Hyundai Mobis is moving away from its traditional auto component company image and working to transition into a leading platform and software firm to secure future growth engines within the industry.



Through a differentiated series of strategies, the company aims to secure long-term growth businesses, diversify its customer base and come up with innovative business models to fuel future growth.



Hyundai Mobis is seeking a total transformation to meet the ever-changing landscape of the current auto industry ecosystem better, the company said.



Currently, the auto industry has been going through major restructuring focusing on the keywords mobility service, automation and full self-driving (FSD). Not only carmakers, but other industries in general have been going through major changes, pressuring traditional vehicle component companies to swiftly adapt.





Hyundai Mobis concept car M.Vision POP / Courtesy of Hyundai Mobis
Help sought for obelisk that celebrated pioneers and new highway
Lee Hyung-hee, the president of SK SUPEX Council's Social Value Committee, speaks during an interview with The Korea Times at his office in Seoul, April 27. Korea Times photo by Choi Won-suk



This article is the second in a series of interviews with ESG experts intended to give suggestions for Korea's financial, industrial and public sectors to come up with better ESG strategies for sustainable growth.  ED.



SK's Social Value Committee head believes 'good profit' brings 'bigger profit'





By Park Jae-hyuk



There is no doubt among market insiders that SK Group is the pioneer of management prioritizing environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG) standards in Korea, given that the conglomerate began emphasizing "social value" many years before the global trend became popular here.



SK Chairman Chey Tae-won is now looking to get more local businesses to accept the values-based criteria, after becoming the leader of the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) this year.



Among the chairman's advisers on ESG strategies, the person drawing attention is Lee Hyung-hee, the president of SK SUPEX Council's Social Value (SV) Committee, who joined the KCCI as one of the vice chairmen of its Seoul office.



Known for getting SK affiliates to include the measurement of their social values in their key performance indicators (KPIs), he has helped the lobby group better cooperate with the government and its members to boost ESG management.



"All companies should be aware of the fact that ESG is indispensable for their continuous growth, but at the same time, they should strategically choose fields to focus on, considering their industrial environment," he told The Korea Times in a recent interview. "An ESG management team was organized at the KCCI recently to establish and share relevant strategies."



From that standpoint, he agreed with the opinion of other experts that ESG should be pursued from a long-term perspective, dismissing the skepticism that it will end as another passing fad.



He argued that global "rule-makers," such as the United States and the European Union, will continue to pressure governments and businesses worldwide to pursue the criteria to maintain their hegemonies against developing nations.



"Our group has pursued ESG for several years, but it is still too early to talk about achievements," Lee said. "The principle of ESG management is bringing larger profits in the long run by seeking good profits, rather than focusing on short-term profits."



According to the SK president, the company has asked its employees to develop an understanding of ESG management and has sought to change its corporate culture. He cited the conglomerate's hydrogen business, development of renewable energies and acquisition of a sewage management firm, EMC Holdings, as examples of innovating the company's business portfolio as it pursues improved ESG.



"We are also trying to minimize the impact on the environment by joining the Renewable Energy 100 (RE100) campaign and developing eco-friendly plastic," he said.



Last year, six SK affiliates became the first Korean companies to join the global initiative of businesses committed to making the move to 100 percent renewable electricity by 2050.



"Considering the global environmental policies, it seems that the government should deliberate in terms of strengthening long-term competitiveness of domestic industries, so there should be more communication between the government and businesses," Lee said.



He noted SK is also making efforts to improve its corporate governance, being aware of the criticism that domestic companies are emphasizing environmental issues to avoid demands for governance reform.



"Sizable conglomerates in Korea need trillions of won in investments from global capital markets, so they are required to be equipped with governance structures satisfying global standards," he said. "Our group's board of directors has pursued better management and accelerated efforts to reform our internal systems to stabilize a governance structure that meets global standards."





Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) Chairman Chey Tae-won, second from right, and Seoul Chamber of Commerce and Industry Vice Chairman Lee Hyung-hee, right, talk with Presidential Chief of Staff for Policy Lee Ho-seung, second from left, at the KCCI headquarters in Seoul, April 7. From left are Presidential Secretary for Industrial Policy Lee Ho-joon, Lee, Senior Presidential Secretary for Economic Affairs An Il-whan, KCCI Vice Chairman Woo Tae-hee, Chey and Lee. Courtesy of Cheong Wa Dae
NOAA Fisheries/Courtesy photo/NOAA takes aerial photos like this of a right whale and her calf to identify individuals. The pattern of calluses on the head of an adult right whale is unique to that animal. The North Atlantic Right Whale Catalog now includes more than 1 million images.
CLAYTON - Margaret was born and lived in Clayton, N.J., her whole life. She was married to Fredrick Kiefer Jr. for 48 years until his passing. A loving and wonderful mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She is survived by her son, Fredrick Kiefer III and his wife Barbara Kiefer; her d




Hotel Shilla CEO Lee Boo-jin, left, poses by the hotel entrance in central Seoul, in this photo taken in May 2015. Korea Times file



By Yi Whan-woo



After the death of Samsung Group Chairman Lee Kun-hee, investors are focused on whether or not Samsung Electronics will pursue a more simplified business structure, with the late Samsung chairman's scions taking respective roles within the conglomerate.



Samsung has remained tight-lipped about any restructuring plans, but a possible scenario is that Samsung Vice Chairman Lee Jae-yong will manage the group's tech affiliates, while his younger sister Lee Boo-jin, also Hotel Shilla CEO, could take a role in managing the conglomerate's financial units, according to industry sources, Monday.



Earlier, Samsung said it would look into the possibility of transforming itself into a holding company, adding it would have more to say on the issue at a "later date." The core reason is that a possible breakup would be beneficial to the owner family.




Goshen, IN (46526)

Today

Mixed clouds and sun this morning. Scattered thunderstorms developing this afternoon. High around 85F. Winds ESE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms during the evening, with mainly clear skies after midnight. Low 66F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%.
We have just finished the Portuguese Grand Prix but this weekend the Spanish Grand Prix is coming up. The teams will travel over 1,200 kilometres from Portimao to Barcelona to get everything ready for the next GP. Read all about the Spanish GP and what time you have to switch on for the race here.

Now it's Verstappen's turn again?

The Portuguese Grand Prix was won by Lewis Hamilton, so there is work to be done for Max Verstappen and Red Bull Racing. Mercedes was faster in Portugal, where Red Bull had been the first two races. Was this a one-off problem for Red Bull due to the lack of grip, or are there the same problems in Spain?

In Spain the drivers will encounter a familiar and defining circuit. The teams have a lot of data from the Barcelona circuit, as they not only race here every year, but also test here. This year the teams didn't come to Barcelona for the winter test, but in other years they always did. Because of this the teams have a lot of data of this circuit.

Read more Verstappen ruthlessly pushed Hamilton aside

All this data makes sure that you often see a very fair picture in Barcelona. Especially on Saturday. Of the 30 Grands Prix held in Barcelona, the pole was taken 25 times by the team that would win the constructors' title. Twenty times it was also the driver who would win the world title.

The importance of the Spanish GP

However, victory is no guarantee for the world title. Crazy things can happen. Think of Max Verstappen's victory in 2016, or Pastor Maldonado's in 2012. Both victors would not come close to the title, as was also the case for Kimi Raikkonen and Felipe Massa during earlier victories in 2008 and 2007.

The Spanish Grand Prix is therefore an incredibly important test of the Formula 1 season. Here we will see who really has the upper hand in 2021. Will it be Mercedes who seem just a little bit better on the tyres in the race, or will Max Verstappen and Red Bull Racing manage to be the fastest again here. Either way, this is a weekend not to be missed.

Timetable of the Spanish Grand Prix

Friday

First free practice: 10:30AM - 11:30AM

Second free practice: 2PM - 3PM

Saturday

Third free practice: 11:00AM - 12:00PM

Qualification: 2PM - 3PM

Sunday

Race: 2PM - 4PM

Read more Column | Mercedes proves to be much more efficient than Red Bull Racing in 2021 so far
Max Verstappen's second place in the race limited the damage in Portugal, where Mercedes seemed just a little bit better than Red Bull Racing all weekend. Christian Horner is happy with Max's performance, although he also saw some frustrations surface.

Mercedes just strong

It was a messy weekend for Verstappen in Portimao. From the very first minute, things didn't work out for the Dutchman, who said he would be visiting his dentist at the end of the weekend because of the intense vibrations. Red Bull had little grip on the cold Portugal tarmac and appeared to be suffering more than the competition.

According to Horner Mercedes was much faster on the hard tyre. On the medium tyre Verstappen kept up a good fight with Valtteri Bottas and Lewis Hamilton, but on the hard tyre, Hamilton managed to pull the gap to the Dutchman. Horner is therefore very impressed that Verstappen finished second.

Verstappen excels

''Max did exceptionally well, especially by passing Hamilton on the restart. Then Max had a moment of his own. He lost the spot again to Lewis, but Sunday was really about the 'marginal gains. It was once again very close between Mercedes and ourselves, which in itself is encouraging'', Horner told Motorsport.com.

''Max has not really enjoyed this weekend. He was a bit frustrated about the lack of grip and the conditions, although of course they are the same for everyone. But in Barcelona we will probably get a better picture. All the teams have a lot of data from that circuit. Barcelona also has a good mix of fast and slow corners, which should make the picture a bit clearer'', concludes Red Bull Racing's team principal.

Read more Column | Mercedes proves to be much more efficient than Red Bull Racing in 2021 so far
It was remarkable that Mercedes were suddenly the better team in the duel with Red Bull Racing in Portimao. The Austrians seemed to have the best car in the first two races, but that was not the case in Portugal. Why did Mercedes come out on top in Portimao?

Mercedes is lucky

In the first two races, Mercedes may have scored the most points, but it was mainly the RB16B owned by Max Verstappen that was pointed out as the best car on the grid. It was therefore remarkable that Mercedes had the best car in Portugal. In qualifying, Verstappen might have been able to take pole, but in the race, Hamilton was clearly better.

According to Auto, Motor und Sport this is due to the circumstances at this circuit. According to the German media, Mercedes has problems with their rear tyres, which overheat quickly. The tyres have to stay in the right window to get the maximum performance out of them. This is why Red Bull was faster in Bahrain.

Problems in Spain

Where Mercedes was able to win in Bahrain through a clever strategy, Mercedes was simply faster now, and that was mainly due to the low temperatures. ''The problems with the rear tyres we had much better under control here. The cold temperatures helped us in Imola, and in Portimao the slippery tarmac kept us going'', Mercedes engineers told the German media.

In Barcelona and Monaco, a team struggling with its rear tyres will be in much more pain than in Portimao. According to AMuS, this will cause problems for Mercedes, but also for Alpine who have the same problems as Mercedes, which is why they came out on top in Portimao.

Read more Column | Mercedes proves to be much more efficient than Red Bull Racing in 2021 so far
Although many Verstappen fans will be disappointed that Max didn't take pole or victory in Portugal, the race was again a feast for the neutral Formula 1 fan. Once again the Dutchman and Lewis Hamilton showed they are in a class of their own. This was again expressed in a few spectacular actions between the two on the track.

Fault crucial?

In the BCC's F1: Chequered Flag podcast, Jolyon Palmer also reveals he enjoyed the experience: "We've had a wheel-to-wheel fight between Lewis and Max in every race so far. Back in the days when Hamilton and Vettel were fighting for wins you rarely saw these fights."

Read more Red Bull Racing determined to help Verstappen win title with further development

He continued, "The cars are so proportionate to each other in terms of performance, little details make so much of a difference this year. But the battles between the two are amazing." For example, he alludes to a mistake by Max that prevented him from overtaking Bottas at the start of the race: "Was that mistake crucial and did it cost him the win?"

Abu Dhabi 2016

Hard to say according to the British former driver. Palmer was pleased with Bottas' lead at the start of the race though: "You couldn't write a better script for it. You have a slower car [Bottas] in the lead, but not so slow that you can overtake him very easily, but he constantly pushed the two title rivals back into each other's laps. It was like Abu Dhabi 2016."
While Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton have been in the limelight all season, Valtteri Bottas seems to be playing second fiddle again at Mercedes. He did manage to qualify on pole on Saturday in Portugal, but in the race, it became the Max and Lewis show and the Finn is already well behind after only three races.

Self-confidence

Former Formula One driver Sergej Sirotkin analyses at Formule1.nl in his column where he thinks the fault lies with Bottas. "From the outside looking in, I would say Bottas lacks some self-confidence compared to Hamilton and Verstappen. In a fight, you always have factors in the back of your mind. First of all, it costs you time. Not only because you are attacking or defending but also because you are asking more from your tyres."

Read more Red Bull Racing determined to help Verstappen win title with further development

According to the Russian, Bottas plays it safe too often: "He doesn't have that knife-edge approach, either going in full force or being conservative if he has to. It's always a bit in between with him. Verstappen and Hamilton have much less doubt. They can go into a fight without smoking their tyres, but they can also be conservative and avoid a fight if they have to, only to strike later."

Verstappen vs Hamilton

That Bottas is the least fast of the three is beyond dispute, according to Sirotkin, but between Max and Lewis, it's a different story. "Who was really faster, is still impossible to say. Okay, Max Verstappen had that deleted lap in Q3, but Lewis Hamilton had a super lap in Q2 that was even faster. Verstappen could have been even more involved in the fight for victory, I think. Though with a perfect race he probably wouldn't have won anyway. And that's why Hamilton is as strong as he is."
The Spanish government has decided to allow 1,000 fans to visit the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya this weekend. Although at first, it seemed that the Grand Prix would take place without an audience, the government still sees room for fans.

The organisation was initially expecting 15,000 fans in the stands, but the government changed that two weeks ago. Because of the number of infections in Spain, the organisation was not even allowed to allow any fans. Spain however released the state of emergency and now there is still room for fans during the Grand Prix.

Read more Fastest pit stop: Mercedes have more catching up to do in this department

"It is of great importance that we are able to open our doors and reward the support of our loyal members", states Josep Lluis Santamaria, general manager of the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya In a statement. "Although it is still a small number of fans, we can be an example of how supporters can be safe at sporting events." More than 1,000 people have tickets. Among them, the organisation will hold a lottery next week to determine who can attend. They will be allowed to sit on the main grandstand at the start-finish.

Winners

Lewis Hamilton was the best of the last four Grands Prix in Spain on Sunday. In 2016 Max Verstappen won the race after a spectacular performance. The Dutchman was driving his Red Bull for the first time at the time.
The "mind games" between Formula 1's title protagonists have begun tantalisingly early in 2021, according to former driver Ralf Schumacher.

Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen are keeping their battle civil at least publicly, but 2016 world champion Nico Rosberg says their respective bosses "can't stand each other".

Indeed, Mercedes' Toto Wolff has been regularly exchanging media jibes with Red Bull's Christian Horner and Dr Helmut Marko.

For instance, when considering a radio call made to Lando Norris in qualifying, Marko said he suspected McLaren was helping its engine supplier by potentially disturbing Verstappen's lap.

"Helmut Marko is a strong weapon for us because it doesn't help your own team to see conspiracies everywhere you go," Wolff said at the weekend.

Then, in a press briefing with German media, Wolff said of the weekend: "It went well. We annoyed the doctor, so that was really good."

Ralf Schumacher told Sky Deutschland: "I've never seen the mind games start so early.

"One tries to get into the other's head to lead them to mistakes, and it's exactly the same the other way around. That's nice for us to watch," he admitted.

Marko was also angry at the FIA after Sunday's race, because Verstappen had an extra point taken away for setting the fastest lap due to a track limits violation.

"First we lost the victory in Bahrain, then pole position in qualifying here and now the fastest lap," he said. "Something has to change.

"Lando Norris took Sergio Perez with clearly all four tyres off the track but no consequences, so you can't call it racing anymore if you don't follow the rules consistently.

"Either there is a limit with real kerbs or we put gravel there so there is an automatic punishment for driving too far out," Marko added.

More generally, however, Marko is happy with how Verstappen's season is going so far.

"We were faster on the medium tyre but unfortunately Max made the mistake. Our pace was a little slower on the hard tyre," he explained.

"But this was a Mercedes track and we were competitive - not enough for victory but the development is correct."

(GMM)
Daniil Kvyat says he wants to return to Formula 1 next year - although he's not ruling out a move to another series.

The Russian had a rollercoaster 100-plus race career in the sport but lost his Alpha Tauri seat - and Red Bull's backing - at the end of last season.

He is now Alpine's reserve driver, and attended the race at Portimao last weekend.

"Everything is fine with me," Kvyat, 27, told the Russian broadcaster Match TV in Portugal.

"I have a new role in the team - reserve driver, working on the simulator. I will come to the races as reserve driver," he explained.

"It is interesting to work with the team. It's a new team here, interesting guys, I worked with many of them at Renault in 2015 and 2016.

"I am everywhere - in the factory, on the track. If something happens to the main drivers, I am ready to sit in the car at any time," Kvyat added.

As for what his future holds, Kvyat answered: "I have many proposals that need to be calmly considered.

"I want to be in Formula 1 next year and so I will work on that with my manager. We first need to wait this year, look at the options, and take into account many factors - which teams, what is the series like, what is the popularity and so on."

(GMM)
Trinamool Congress party supporters celebrate after winning an absolute majority in the West Bengal Assembly Election in Kolkata, India, May 2. EPA-Yonhap



The incumbent chief minister's party in India's West Bengal state has defeated Prime Minister Narendra Modi's party in a state election held as the coronavirus pandemic surged to crisis levels.



Modi has been criticised for focusing on the elections instead of making the pandemic his top priority.



Some expert blame the federal election commission for allowing rallies and voting in which large crowds flouted rules on social distancing and mask-wearing.



Mamata Banerjee, 66, is set to be the chief of West Bengal for the third time after her Trinamool Congress party (TMC) won a two-thirds majority, taking more than 200 seats in the 294-seat state assembly, election commission officials said. Final counting for some seats was still underway.






Claire Xu, poses for a photo, April 9, in Decatur, Ga. Xu was propelled into action following the mass fatal shootings of eight people, six of them Asian women, at a Georgia massage businesses in March. AP-Yonhap



The fatal shootings of eight people  six of them women of Asian descent  at Georgia massage businesses in March propelled Claire Xu into action.



Within days, she helped organize a rally condemning violence against Asian Americans that drew support from a broad group of activists, elected officials and community members. But her parents objected.



'''We don't want you to do this,''' Xu, 31, recalled their telling her afterward. '''You can write about stuff, but don't get your face out there.'''



The shootings and other recent attacks on Asian Americans have exposed a generational divide in the community. Many young activists say their parents and other elders are saddened by the violence but question the value of protests or worry about their consequences. They've also found the older generations tend to identify more closely with their ethnic groups  Chinese or Vietnamese, for example  and appear reluctant to acknowledge racism.



That divide makes it harder to forge a collective Asian American constituency that can wield political power and draw attention to the wave of assaults against people of Asian descent in the U.S. since the coronavirus pandemic began, community leaders say.



''In our original countries, where our ancestors came from, they wouldn't even imagine that someone from Bangladesh would be lumped in the same group as someone from Laos,'' said Angela Hsu, president of the Georgia Asian Pacific American Bar Association.



But those differences obscure a shared experience of ''feeling like we're constantly thought of as being foreign in our own country,'' said U.S. Rep. Andy Kim, of New Jersey.





An Asian woman protests anti-Asian violence and hatred as a coalition of activist groups and labor unions participate in a May Day march for workers' and human rights in Los Angeles, Calif., May 1. AFP-Yonhap
Russian Rosatom State Atomic Energy Corporation and the EDF Group signed a strategic cooperation agreement in March 2021 to develop green hydrogen in Russia and Europe.

In particular, the EDF and Rosatom agreement aims to develop initiatives in the sectors of mobility and industrial complex decarbonization, and anticipates research and development cooperation on new CO 2 -neutral hydrogen technologies.

Hydrogen energy is one of Rosatoms R&D priorities. The Russian nuclear industry has technological and scientific potential in developing hydrogen productionboth by electrolysis and from methane conversion with associated CO 2 capture and storage technologies.

Rosatoms ambition is to produce and to store decarbonized hydrogen, and take part in pilot projects in Russia and across the world.

In 2019, EDF strengthened its commitment to the energy transition by creating Hynamics, a subsidiary aimed at making EDF a key player in the low-carbon and renewable hydrogen sector in France and internationally.

We believe in the future of hydrogen as an energy source and in Russias strong export potential in this fieldespecially considering its rich natural resources, technologies, industries and energy sector. Rosatom systematically develops carbon-free energy generation, and our projects arent limited by our extensive capacity in nuclear. We are ready to become one of the key players in the emerging global hydrogen production, transport and consumption market. In the context of global decarbonization goals, hydrogen as an energy source is an issue of major importance for international cooperation. I am sure our collaboration with EDF will result in significant synergies and will enable us to conduct joint hydrogen projects, not only in Russia and France but also worldwide. Kirill Komarov, First Deputy Director General for Corporate Development and International Business at Rosatom

The EDF Group is an integrated electricity company, active in all areas of the business: generation, transmission, distribution, energy supply and trading, energy services. The Group has developed a diversified generation mix based on nuclear power, hydropower, new renewable energies and thermal energy. The Group is involved in supplying energy and services to approximately 37.9 million customers, 28.1 million of which are in France. It generated consolidated sales of 69 billion in 2020.

Rosatom is a diversified holding that unites assets in the energy sector, the mechanical engineering industry, and the construction industry. Its objective is to develop low-carbon sources of energy, including wind energy. Rosatom is Russias national leader in electricity generation (producing more than 20% of the countrys total power) and ranks first in the world in terms of portfolio of foreign projects, with 35 power units at different stages of implementation in 12 countries.

Rosatom is the only company in the world that has competencies in the entire technology chain of the nuclear fuel cycle, from natural uranium mining to the final stages of a nuclear facilitys lifespan. The scope of Rosatoms activity also extends to scientific research, the development of the Northern Sea Route, the development of various innovative products, both nuclear and non-nuclear, and environmental projects, including the creation of eco-technology parks and a state system for handling hazardous industrial waste. Rosatom employs over 260,000 people in more than 400 enterprises and organizations.
GREENWICH  The Greenwich Shellfish Commission hosted an informative and interactive event for both children and adults interested in fishing for clams, oysters, and mussels on the beach at Greenwich Point Park in Old Greenwich on Sunday.
GREENWICH  Deborah Goodrich Royce has always been intrigued by people who are not necessarily what they seem.

Daytime drama fans will remember her as the actress who convincingly played Erica Kanes mysterious sister Silver on All My Children.

And now book lovers can help solve the puzzle of identity in her second novel, Ruby Falls, a twisty, quickly paced story set to hit bookstores on Tuesday.

I play with a lot of Gothic themes in my books, Royce said recently while relaxing in her Riverside home. Sometimes it changes as youre writing. The characters surprise you.

Ruby Falls centers on Eleanor, a young actress with a past, her dashing new husband and her sinking feeling that his secrets may eclipse her own. A literary thriller in the tradition of Daphne du Maurier, the new book provides just the right amount of eerie, according to New York Times bestselling author Sandra Brown.

Ruby Falls is what a reader wants a psychological thriller to be, Brown wrote.

Early reviews laud Royces skillful plotting, and the author from Greenwich says shes come to see her own life as a series of chapters, some of which have overlapped.

Raised in the Detroit area, she earned a bachelors degree in modern foreign languages at Lake Erie College before appearing as a dancer in Those Lips, Those Eyes, a 1980 film starring Frank Langella and Tom Hulce. Soon after, she packed a couple of suitcases and headed to New York City to break into Broadway.

Ah, youth! Royce laughed of that time in her liefe.

She got close to several plum roles and, with the help of an agent, spent a decade performing in commercials and on All My Children, as well as in films such as April Fools Day and Remote Control and TVs St. Elsewhere, Beverly Hills 90210 and 21 Jump Street.

I had a good run with acting, she said.

A mother of two daughters, Royce moved to Los Angeles, then Paris, where she read manuscripts for a French film studio, before moving back to New York, where she was hired as a story editor for the film company Miramax.

All along the way, she was dabbling in writing, joining writing groups and producing short stories and a screenplay.

Once her younger child was grown and left the house, she made a promise to herself.

I said, Im going to tell people Im writing a novel, Royce said.

The not-so-secret pact helped spur her on and led to her first novel, Finding Mrs. Ford, which she started in earnest in 2014. The plot centers on a young woman who heads East after growing up in Detroit  and finds her past has caught up to her.

The initial plot to Ruby Falls came to Royce as she was putting the finishing touches on Finding Mrs. Ford. Sensing a full novel in the making, she immediately sat down and typed out the first two pivotal chapters.

Though she has a home office, Royce said she prefers to write in the sun-dappled conservatory at one end of the home she has shared with her husband, investment pioneer Chuck Royce, since they married in 2002. In a life chapter the two share, they co-own Stamfords Avon Theatre Film Center, one of the few local cinemas that has managed to stay open during most of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Author event Royce will discuss the book and its beginnings in a live author talk and signing at Dogwood Books at Christ Church in Greenwich at 6 p.m. May 6. She will also take part in a virtual author talk at 6 p.m. May 19 with the Greenwich Library, hosted by Laura Matthews, Cos Cob Library Branch Manager. To register, visit www.greenwichlibrary.org/. Details of the appearance and other live and online author events are listed on her website at deborahgoodrichroyce.com. See More Collapse

Strict adherence to safety protocol has allowed small audiences to enjoy the theaters blend of classic and indie movies that appeal to film buffs.

Its one of the most gratifying things I have ever done, she said of reviving the Stamford gem that first opened in 1939.

Now working on a third novel, Royce said shes also pleased to have found personal and professional success with her writing career, something she wishes she could have shared with her late father. Ruby Falls begins with a young girls trip to a scary Tennessee cave with her father, a fateful journey that becomes a pivotal part of the story.

Last November, the author was rummaging through some boxes in a storage unit she rents, when she spied a photo of her and her father on their own trip to the underground waterfalls near Chattanooga. Royce took it as a positive sign.

I thought it was a little wink from the universe, she said.

Royce will discuss the book and its beginnings in a live author talk and signing at Dogwood Books at Christ Church in Greenwich at 6 p.m. May 6. Details of the appearance and other live and online author events are available on her website at deborahgoodrichroyce.com.
Faced with a potential loss of nearly $200 million over the next two years if the state banned all flavored tobacco products, the General Assemblys tax-writing committee on Monday drastically amended legislation to prohibit the sale of flavored vaping materials and electronic cigarettes.

The committee declined to advance a version of the bill that would have banned all flavored tobacco products, including menthol cigarettes.

Under the bill that passed with mainly Democratic support, Connecticut would join New York, Massachusetts, New Jersey and Rhode Island in banning flavored vapes, starting Jan. 1, 2022. California also adopted a ban, which is temporarily on hold.

The legislative Public Health Committee had previously recommended that all flavored tobacco products be prohibited, in attempt to discourage young smokers.

But the Finance, Revenue and Bonding Committees co-chairmen, Rep. Sean Scanlon of Guilford and Sen. John Fonfara of Hartford, amended the bill, kicking off a 40-minute debate in which more-conservative Republicans charged that the state is attempting to interfere with personal freedom. Liberal Democrats argued that it was a way to discourage young people, even those under-21 who are prohibited under current law from purchasing tobacco products.

We have been working over the weekend to try to get the place were at today on this bill, Scanlon said, stressing that the compromise legislation would revert to what the governor proposed in his budget.

Kevin OFlaherty, director of advocacy for Northeast region of the Washington-based Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, said after the vote that he hopes that the bill can be amended back this year to include all flavored tobacco.

Ending the sale of flavored e-cigarettes is the best way that Connecticut can address youth usage of e-cigarettes, which has been designated an epidemic by the U.S. Surgeon General, and we applaud the committee for taking this important step, OFlaherty said in an emailed statement. However, the bill passed today fails to deal with the one flavored tobacco product that has addicted more kids and killed more Americans than all other flavored tobacco products combined - menthol cigarettes. Not only are these products more appealing to kids in general, they have also been perniciously marketed to communities of color in predatory ways and contribute to the health disparities that African Americans have to face every day.

Republican lawmakers including Rep. Laura Devlin of Fairfield, Sen. Tony Hwang of Fairfield and Rep. Holly Cheeseman of East Lyme, ranking Republican on the committee, voted for the legislation, which next heads to the Senate.

A federal law was recently amended to prohibit the mail shipment of all e-cigarettes and the proposed Connecticut bill that advanced Monday would enhance penalties for retailers selling vapes to those under-21. Still, some lawmakers conceded that those seeking flavored electronic cigarettes and vapes would be likely to be able to get them over the internet or have older people purchase them.

Flavor additives blended by consumers would also be banned under the bill.

The original bill, which recently passed the Public Health Committee, was estimated by nonpartisan legislative staff to lose $87.9 million in tax revenue in the fiscal year starting July 1, and $108.8 in the second year. The revision would lose the state $1.9 million in the first year and $2.5 in the second.

As somebody who was a former smoker, who unfortunately started smoking at a very young age, I personally, as a member of the public Health Committee, supported the main bill in the committee because I believe that we should be doing everything that we can to make sure that other young people in Connecticut are not making the same mistake that I and so many others did as young people by getting hooked on these products, Scanlon told the committees virtual meeting.

I would prefer the original bill because what were doing today is were protecting kids from being addicted to nicotine, which is a great thing were doing and would be my top priority, said Rep. Mary Mushinsky, D-Wallingford, the longest-serving member in the House of Representatives, who said that the amended bill would have extended to flavored cigarettes, cigars and other materials. The result would have been assistance for adults trying to quit smoking.

Once the menthol is not included anymore, the unpleasantness of smoking becomes more apparent, Mushinsky said. But if all we can get today is the kids, Ill take it. I wish we could do the whole bill.

Rep. Dorinda Borer, D-West Haven, said that teen vaping is a major problem nationwide. Vaping is prevalent among teens in every community across our state and across our country, she said. Its rampant in our schools. Superintendents have indicated that it is happening faster that they can get around their arms and address. One vaping pod is the equivalent of one pack of cigarettes.

Its the flavors that are attractive, she said. These products have been target-marketing to our young adults. Cotton candy, gummy bears, fruit roll-ups. Those are children-like flavors.

Fonfara said he was concerned that illegal sales may continue to proliferate. The illegal market is so incredibly active, he said.

But more-conservative lawmakers, including Rep. Nicole Klarides-Ditria, R-Seymour, said that the bill would take away the right of adults. I mean, at some point are we to ban French fries and milk shakes because those are bad for you as well? she said.

Who are we, as a legislature, to tell people what is good and not good for them? said Rep. Gale Mastrofrancesco, R-Wolcott. To me, its about more government control. We have businesses out there that will certainly suffer. What happened to individual rights.

kdixon@ctpost.com Twitter: @KenDixonCT
The Biden administration said it will begin talks with the World Trade Organization. AFP-Yonhap



The Biden administration said it will begin talks this week with the World Trade Organization over lifting intellectual property rights for coronavirus vaccines as activists and foreign leaders call on it to support a growing movement to waive concerned patents for the benefit of poorer nations.



White House Chief of Staff Ron Klain told CBS's Face the Nation during a televised interview Sunday that Katherine Tai, the United States' top trade negotiator, will be headed to the WTO to open talks on "how we can get this vaccine more widely distributed, more widely licensed, more widely shared."



The announcement was made as pressure from activists, progressive politicians and foreign leaders mounts on the White House to support waiving pharmaceutical patents on vaccine production to allow poorer countries to make their own versions of the shot.



Early last week, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi told President Joe Biden in a phone call about a motion it brought before the WTO along with South Africa to waive certain trade provisions concerning vaccines, according to a readout of the call from Modi's office.



The motion calls for the waiver to be in place "until widespread vaccination is in place globally, and the majority of the world's population has developed immunity."



The call between the two heads of state was made as India battles another surge in cases. In the last two days, Indian health officials have reported some 800,000 infections and more than 7,000 deaths.



In mid-April, more than 170 heads of states and Nobel laureates, including Kim Campbell, the former prime minister of Canada, and former British Prime Minister Gordon Brown, called on Biden to support the motion.



"A WTO waiver is a vital and necessary step to bringing an end to this pandemic," the leaders said in a letter sent to the president by The People's Vaccine movement. "With your leadership, we can ensure COVID-19 vaccine technology is shared with the world."



At the current rate of immunization in poorer nations, many will be waiting until at least 2024 to get the shot, they said.



In March, World Health Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus also called for patents to be waived to put the world "on a war footing."



"I don't believe that globally we're exercising our full manufacturing muscle at present," he said. "Let's not be held back by politics, business as usual or those that say we can't."



Klain said Sunday that intellectual property rights are only part of the problem with manufacturing being more to blame for vaccine supply issues.



India has a domestic vaccine called Covishield and production there has slowed due to a lack of raw materials, he said, adding the United States has sent enough to make some 20 million does as the country battles another surge in cases.



"Manufacturing is the biggest problem," he said. "We have a factory here in the U.S. that has the full intellectual property rights to make the vaccine. They aren't making doses because the factory has problems." (UPI)


Keith Srakocic / Associated Press

SHELTON  A professional poker player will spend one year and two months in prison in connection with a tax evasion case that spanned several years, according to federal prosecutors.

Guy Smith, 63, of Shelton, was sentenced Friday by Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 14 months in prison, followed by two years of supervised release. He was released on bond and told to report to prison on June 30.
Ben Lambert / Hearst Connecticut Media

NORWICH  A local man pleaded guilty to embezzling more than $600,000 from a Farmington-based nonprofit where he served as chief executive officer, federal prosecutors said.

Michael Meakem, 59, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty Friday in New Haven federal court to wire fraud stemming from an embezzlement scheme.
GREENWICH  As the COVID-19 crisis begins to ease in Connecticut, officials in Greenwich are encouraging everyone to get vaccinated so the community can continue on to path to normalcy.

In Greenwich, more than 22,600 residents, or about 36 percent of the towns population is fully vaccinated against the coronavirus, Town Director of Health Caroline Baisley said as she cited statistics through last week from the state Department of Public Health.

But the vaccine rate varies widely by age group, according to statistics:

*The highest vaccine rate is among people age 65 and up, who have been eligible the longest, with 82.53 percent fully vaccinated, 8,638 town residents;

*For those age 45 to 64, 56.75 percent of the town population is fully vaccinated, or 10,755 residents; and

*For residents age 15 to 44, only 16.3 percent of the town is fully vaccinated, or 3,244 residents.

The vaccination numbers should continue to rise, Baisley said. The last group of residents has been eligible to receive the vaccine for only the last month, and the two-dose vaccinations require a gap of three to four weeks between shots. Also, many people in each of the age ranges have received their first shots and are awaiting their second shots.

We have vaccine appointments opening up, and people who have not gotten (the vaccine) should get it, First Selectman Fred Camillo said Monday.

The increased vaccination rate is paving the way for Greenwich to begin holding many of the big events that were canceled last year at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, he said. The town is slated to hold its annual Memorial Day parade in Old Greenwich at the end of the month and to set off the Fourth of July fireworks this summer, Camillo said.

The Greenwich Town Party, the Concours dElegance car show and the Puttin on the Dog event are all tentatively scheduled to take place in September or October.

If nothing is changed, we will be able to have these events  and tell people that if you cant keep three or six feet from people for distancing, then wear a mask, he said.

With many events planning to move forward this year, Camillo stressed the need for residents to get vaccinated against COVID-19.

Fewer clinics

There are three locations in town to receive vaccines. Greenwich Hospital operates a daily clinic at Brunswick Schools King Street campus; Family Centers Inc. runs a clinics on weekdays at Eastern Greenwich Civic Center; and the town Department of Health holds a three days per week clinic in Town Hall.

Greenwich Hospital, which has vaccinated residents from all over the state, said it has administered 34,040 vaccinations since January.

Appointments are still required at many vaccine sites, but with more openings recently, Greenwich Hospital and Family Centers have been able to accommodate walk-ins. Additionally, Greenwich Hospital has dropped its Connecticut residency requirement for vaccines at its Brunswick site.

At the town clinic, Baisley said the plan is to begin to reduce the schedule because of the lower demand.

Starting with the last week of May and through June, there will only be one vaccination clinic (at Town Hall) to book appointments, Baisley said last week. There will be no clinics in July or August. At the end of June, we will develop another plan to accommodate those who will need to be vaccinated. But it will not be in a clinic format.

Encouraging vaccines

Camillo said some people may need an incentive to get vaccinated. He shared the story of a friend whose son didnt want to get vaccinated but who wanted to go to a New York Yankees game, which requires a negative COVID test or full vaccination.

He couldnt go unless he was vaccinated, and so he went and got vaccinated, Camillo said. I think with a little nudging like that in certain areas, that may help.

The town has also worked hard to get seniors vaccinated, instituting a program through its Department of Health to go directly to seniors who are homebound or who had difficulty traveling to a clinic to get them vaccinated. Baisley said nearly 30 homebound seniors in town have been helped through this program.

In his Community Connections e-blast last Friday, Camillo reminded residents that Call-A-Ride offers transportation services for seniors to go for vaccinations, COVID testing or any medical appointment. To get a ride from the nonprofit, call 203-661-6633.

You never know in a town of 63,000 people who ... may need a ride who hasnt reached out or may live alone and may not even have access to a computer or a phone, Camillo said Monday. So its good to have groups like Call-A-Ride who can help.

kborsuk@greenwichtime.com
Dear Gov. Ned Lamont,

The speed with which you signed HB: 6423 An Act Concerning Immunizations took my breath away. The pained desperation of thousands of parents who testified in person, via Zoom, in emails, and attended rallies did not warrant one moments pause for you. From your high perch, you could afford no empathy for regular people with complex problems.

Dont you think we wish we could just vaccinate our children? If our lives could be that easy ...

Havent you ever had a doctor who was wrong and gave an incorrect diagnosis?

Do you not think its possible for a parent to know their childs well-being better than a doctor?

Is there no room in our society for people who do not march to your drum beat for vaccines?

How dare you violate the rights of parents to claim a faith-based exemption for their children not to be vaccinated 100 percent to the Center for Disease Controls recommended schedule, which today is up to 75 doses from birth to 18 years of age.

How dare you say these children cannot attend any school in Connecticut? No public or private school, no parochial school, no day care, and no college in this state.

How do you square that with the Connecticut Constitution that says, There shall always be free public elementary and secondary schools in the state?

There are 8,000 out of 500,000 school-aged children in our state whose families exercise the religious exemption. We comply with the laws and sign an affidavit which is filed at the schools. But there are 21,000 children who are non-compliant unvaccinated  did you try to figure out what was going on with these families? Why were they not following the laws? No, you did not. You punished first the rights of parents who were following the laws and properly filing an exemption.

Connecticut has had the religious exemption since 1959 when the first vaccine for polio was introduced. There was always a recognition and an understanding that some of us will not or cannot be vaccinated. Today Connecticut has the fifth highest immunization rates in the country, according to the CDC. Connecticut has a 96.2 percent MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella) vaccination rate.

Follow the science? The science says community-immunity happens at different rates for each virus and often at 70 percent or 80 percent vaccination rates, meaning we do not need total compliance to safely live together with community-immunity.

The bill you signed grandfathered in my own children who attend Western Middle School and Hamilton Avenue School, but what about families who have babies right now? What about future children in our state?

You are making a serious mistake in our state by not trusting parents and not respecting parents rights to make decisions for their childrens health, and denying them access to educational institutions, period  public or private, from kindergarten to college. An education is the most important building block to ones life success. How dare you.

We parents will not forget this come election time. And I express deeply heartfelt thank you to Greenwich Representatives Kimberly Fiorello and Harry Arora for clearly understanding the issues, not falling for the fear-mongering, and supporting our side. Every Republican, and the too few Democrat politicians, who supported parents, God bless you.

Ana V. Diaz is a Greenwich resident.
In its most recent report, the The Telegraph stated that the Apple Watch 8 is about to gain a big hardware upgrade. It will likely be able to measure your glucose and alcohol levels as well as your blood pressure.

The publication found some solid evidence in SEC (the US Securities and Exchange Commission) that Apple uses Rockley Photonics as its main supplier for health-tracking sensors. And the CEO of the said company has talked about these sensors in the past, indicating that consumer-ready products will start to pop up in 2022.

This, in turn, coincides with the Apple Watch Series 8 release, so it's not too far-fetched to see the 8th generation measuring blood sugar, blood pressure and alcohol levels. However, that doesn't mean that all three sensor will make it to Apple's watch but it seems quite possible for now.

Source
A massive leak revealed the other day that Motorola is preparing to launch four Edge-branded smartphones. They are internally called Sierra, Berlin, Berlin NA and Kyoto and now the original source, Technik News, gives us a bit more detail around the Berlin and Berlin NA cameras.

Both handsets are supposed to feature 32MP OmniVision OV32B40 selfie cameras, while the main camera on the back will use the 108MP S4KHM2 for the vanilla Berlin and the 108MP S5KHM2 sensor will make its way to the Berlin NA. Both sensors are supplied by Samsung.

For ultrawide, Berlin would use a 16MP OmniVision OV16A10 sensor paired with an 8MP depth sensor. An interesting pick for a depth sensor. Anyway, the Berlin NA would have to settle for an 8MP ultrawide camera from Samsung (the sensor in question is S5K4H7) and the depth sensor is said to be 2MP.

A few days ago, Kyoto's camera specs were disclosed as well and the handset is expected to feature the same 108MP S4KHM2 Samsung unit for its main camera while the ultrawide and the dept sensors are taken from the Berlin NA as well. The report still isn't sure whether a 16MP or 32MP camera would sit on the front, though.

Sadly, we don't have any other specs to go through but it's believed that Kyoto will be the Lite version in the family while Berlin and Sierra will succeed Edge and Edge+ from last year.

Source (in German)
On May 1 KST, K-Pop Radar's monthly charts for the male artists who gained the most followers were updated to reflect the data that they have gathered for the month of April.

Want to know if your favorite male artist gained the most followers? Continue reading to find out!

BTS is the Male Artist Who Gained the Most Instagram Followers in April 2021

Taking in the number one spot is global superstars, BTS! In April alone, BTS gained a total of 1,256,301 new followers, bringing their total following to 40,606,915 followers by the end of the month.

As of this writing, BTS currently has 40,700,361 followers, making them the most followed Korean male idols on the platform.

BTS is known for their large social media presence, where they actively communicate with fans. This year, BTS is nominated for Billboard's Top Social Award - where they have been nominated and won for four years in a row.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: BTS, BLACKPINK, and SEVENTEEN Receive Nominations at the 2021 Billboard Music Awards

ASTRO's Cha Eun Woo is the Second Male Artist Who Gained the Most Instagram Followers in April 2021

Taking the second spot on the charts is ASTRO's visual center, Cha Eun Woo! The "My ID is Gangnam Beauty" garnered a total of 1,075,087 new Instagram followers for April alone, amassing a total of 20,019,646 followers by the end of April.

Cha Eun Woo is the most followed ASTRO member and the sixth overall for the most followed male idol on Instagram. As of this writing, Cha Eun Woo currently has 20,094,887 Instagram followers.

In other news, Cha Eun Woo recently starred in the drama, "True Beauty," which was adapated from the popular and hit webtoon series of the same name, written by Yaongyi. The drama finished airing on February 4, 2021.

These are the Top 50 Male Idols Who Gained the Most Instagram Followers in April 2021:

1. BTS (+1,256,301)

2. ASTRO's Cha Eun Woo (+1,075,087)

3. NCT's Taeyong (+698,655)

4. GOT7's Jackson (+596,333)

5. Stray Kids (+523,332)

6. NCT's Mark (+512,011)

7. NCT's Doyoung (+470,229)

8. 2PM's Taecyeon (+432,700)

9. NCT's Jaemin (+395,044)

10. NCT's Lucas (+394,463)

11. NCT's Ten (+391,910)

12. NCT's Jaehyun (+366,033)

13. SHINee's Minho (+339,595)

14. NCT (+315,999)

15. NCT's Yuta (+304,687)

16. NCT DREAM (+304,632)

17. EXO's Kai (+299,638)

18. NCT's Winwin (+286,352)

19. ENHYPEN (+286,108)

20. NCT's Johnny (+284,504)

21. NCT's Kun (+270,623)

22. WayV's Yangyang (+257,776)

23. WayV's Xiaojun (+245,766)

24. ASTRO (+236,486)

25. EXO's Baekhyun (+231,862)

26. WayV's Hendery (+230,424)

27. NCT 127 (+224,612)

28. EXO's Chanyeol (+222,739)

29. Yong Junhyung (+217,042)

30. SHINee's Key (+190,162)

31. SHINee's Taemin (+187,650)

32. ATEEZ (+177,908)

33. EXO's Xiumin (+172,861)

34. WayV (+157,798)

35. ASTRO's Moonbin (+157,321)

36. Wonho (+154,992)

37. GOT7's Bambam (+150,379)

38. EXO's Sehun (+142,129)

39. GOT7's Jinyoung (+135,874)

40. SHINee (+134,162)

41. TXT (+133,693)

42. EXO (+131,501)

43. ASTRO's Sanha (+130,379)

44. Lee Seok Hoon (+120,888)

45. THE BOYZ(+111,579)

46. Jay Park (+111,102)

47. ASTRO's Jinjin (+110,032)

48. TREASURE (+108,736)

49. ASTRO's MJ (+106,092)

50. Kim Yo Han (+105,737)

Did your favorite male artists gain more followers?

For more K-Pop news and updates, always keep your tabs open here on KpopStarz.

KpopStarz owns this article.

Written by Robyn Joan
Samsung warns: "if the shortage continues, we may be unable to make televisions"

The despicable availability if chips worldwide seem the have an effect on all market segments. Samsung now also confirming that if the global shortage of chips does not stop, it will end up affecting even the production chain of its Smart TVs.

The company, which recently presented its televisions with Micro LED panels, left open the possibility that in the future they will increase the prices of their products if the current situation of shortages continues as before since they will have to compensate the increases in the costs of the products.

The industry in general is facing a severe supply shortage. If this continues, we may not be able to produce televisions,  said Han Jong-hee, head of the display business at Samsung Electronics.

We are doing everything possible to avoid problems. Samsung Electronics has held meetings with Taiwanese chipmakers to conclude reciprocally this year and next . " Finally, he added that "the company is safe for this year . "

Despite concerns about semiconductor shortages, Han Jong-hee confirmed that Samsung's mass production line for its 146-inch Micro LED is now fully operational. This wall-sized TV will join the 110-, 70- and 80-inch models later this year, Samsung confirmed










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Haiti - FLASH : Call for applications for the Hubert H. Humphrey scholarship (USA)





U.S. Embassy Haiti is pleased to announce the call for applications for the Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program. The Humphrey Fellowship is a ten-month non-degree academic study and professional development program in the United States. The program fosters mutual exchange of knowledge and understanding about issues of common concern in the United States and in the host country.



Humphrey fellows are selected on their potential for leadership and commitment to public service.



This fellowship offers valuable opportunities for education, leadership development and interaction with American and international professional counterparts.



Prospective Humphrey Fellows are Haitian citizens living in Haiti who meet the following criteria :



An undergraduate (first university) degree



A minimum of five years full-time professional experience



Limited or no prior experience in the United States



Demonstrated leadership skills



A record of public service in the community



Demonstrated proficiency in oral and written English (TOEFL 440 PBT or iBT 42 and 500 PBT or iBT 61)



Five years of progressive professional experience in his or her field, and a bachelors degree or higher.



Commit to returning to Haiti after completing the program



The deadline for submitting Hubert H. Humphrey scholarship applications is June 30, 2021.



For more information : https://bit.ly/3us7j6n

Email : papacademicprograms@state.gov



HL/ HaitiLibre


















DTLAIt may turn out to be nothing, just remarks by a politician in a city replete with remarks by politicians. Then again, Councilman Joe Buscainos brief broadside directed at Los Angeles second-highest elected official may go down as a first, very early strike in what will ultimately be 




Haiti - News : Zapping...





A Haitian president of the Bar of Montreal

The Embassy of Haiti in Canada would like to congratulate Me Extra Junior Laguerre, born in Haiti, who by May 5 will become the public face of the Bar of Montreal. He will be the first black person to become president of the bar and wants to improve inclusion and diversity within the legal profession. He will thus officially be the institution's 156th president. This will make him the spokesperson for some 15,000 lawyers practicing in Montreal and who represent more than half of the members of the profession in Quebec.



Petit-Goave : New Police Commissioner

Saturday May 1, 2021, Commissioner Jean Claude Bazile who spent two weeks in Leogane was installed in his function. He replaces in this post the commissioner Charles Maunaude transferred to the Departmental Directorate of the West. The new commissioner asked for everyone's collaboration and promised to work for the benefit of the community "Restore security and allow everyone to go about their business." This is his priority. HL/ HaitiLibre /Guyto Mathieu (Correspondent Petit-Goave).



Investment : imbalance in the financial market

The resources of investment companies in Haiti have 100 million dollars in resources, a small share of the financial market while the banking system is down by 3.3 billion dollars according to Robert Paret Junior President and CEO of the Profin Group.



Barahona : considerable identification requests

Ms. Therese Longchamp, Head of Post in Barahona met with the staff of the Haitian Consulate in order to provide responses to Haitian nationals in relation to the considerable number of requests. She commended the staff and clerics who continue to work hard to enable Haitian migrants to benefit from the identification and documentation program.



Haiti aims for the crown of Miss Universe

Miss Haiti 2020 Eden Berandoive https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-32468-haiti-culture-eden-berandoive-elected-miss-haiti-2020.html will represent Haiti at the next edition of Miss Universe on May 16.



HL/ HaitiLibre


















Korean Movie | 2011

 Drama  War

Directed by Jang Hoon ()

Written by Park Sang-yeon ()

133min | Release date in South Korea: 2011/07/20

Link

Previously known as "Battle of Highlands" on HanCinema

Synopsis

In 1951 ceasefire is declared, but two remaining armies fought their final battle on the front line

Towards the end of the Korean War, a South Korean battalion is fiercely battling over a hill on the front line border against the North in order to capture a strategic point that would determine the new border between two nations. The ownership of this small patch of land would swap multiple times each day. Kang is dispatched to the front line in order to investigate the tacit case thats been happening there. But he gets spiraled into the war thats more terrifying than death itself when he meets his friend Kim, who has transformed into a war machine, and his unit. As the countdown for ceasefire begins, both sides become more vicious, resulting in deaths of countless lives until the last man could claim the land.

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A Senate panel voted Wednesday to give themselves and their colleagues a big increase in their allowance  and do it as soon as possible.

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Larry Hesketh, center, continues on his circumnavigation of Texas; and meeting and making new friends along the way.






Position Objective: Contributes to the provision of high-quality, cost-effective healthcare as a provider of direct and indirect patient care and by effective of the health care team. Functions as a competent member of the health care team. Essential Job Duties: Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 1. Clinical Decision Making/Judgment Demonstrates clinical nursing knowledge and skill in the specialization of the unit.

Demonstrates the ability to apply the nursing process effectively in the care of culturally diverse patients and families. Demonstrates the ability to utilize all applicable laws, policies, standards, guidelines and evidence-based practice in the provision of patient/family care.

Organizes and reprioritizes patient care activities based on subtle and overt and/or environmental changes.

Consistently and thoroughly assesses patients to collect data and identify learning needs according to established standards and policies.

Utilizes a systematic, continuous and complete analysis of assessment data to develop individualized problem lists for assigned patients.

Develops and individualizes a plan of care for each patient in accordance with established standards, appropriate prioritization of problems/needs, and mutually agreed upon goals.

Efficiently implements the patient's plan of care in accordance with applicable standards, policies, procedures and guidelines.

Demonstrates proficiency in medication administration, pain management and other unit or initiative specific skills.

Continuously evaluates the effectiveness of the plan(s) of care, making revisions and recommendations based on analysis of patient responses to interventions. 2. Nurse-Patient Family Relationships Demonstrates the ability to assess the patient's/family's learning needs, readiness to learn, learning style, and presence of barriers to learning.

Demonstrates the ability to develop, implement and evaluate teaching plans for patient populations in unit specialty in accordance with applicable standards.

Demonstrates the ability to apply knowledge of growth and development across the life span to the care of patients.

Provides direct patient care to patients and families in a culturally, developmentally and ethically appropriate manner.

Plans of care address the physical, psychosocial, spiritual and learning needs of the patient/family. 3. Clinical Scholarship Participates in QI, CPI and risk management activities at the unit, department or organizational level.

Demonstrates the ability to effectively perform and improve all processes in order to achieve excellence with regard to AAMC's quality standards and benchmarks.

Supports the use of evidence based guidelines and organizational policies and procedures to promote safe patient care and a safe practice environment. 4. Clinical Leadership Participates in unit shared governance according to departmental standards.

Participates in the education and orientation of new staff.

Delegates patient care activities as appropriate; evaluates delegated activities for expected patient care outcomes.

Employs real time computer documentation when completing patient record. Educational/Experience Requirements: Graduate of an accredited school of nursing

Adherence to the credentialing requirements of AAMC as stated in the nursing bylaws. Required License/Certifications: Current licensure as a registered nurse by the Maryland Board of Nursing.

CPR - American Heart Association Healthcare Provider certification Working Conditions, Equipment, Physical Demands: There is a reasonable expectation that employees in this position will be exposed to blood-borne pathogens. Physical Demands - Medium work. Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 30 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects. The physical demands and work environment that have been described are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The above job description is an overview of the functions and requirements for this position. This document is not intended to be an exhaustive list encompassing every duty and requirement of this position; your supervisor may assign other duties as deemed necessary.


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Location: Boston - Massachusetts

Job Description Business Development Lead - Services Rockwell Automation, the world's largest company dedicated to industrial automation, makes its customers more productive and the world more sustainable. Throughout the world, our flagship Allen-Bradley(R) and Rockwell Software(R) product brands are recognized for innovation and excellence. When you choose Rockwell Automation, you join countless talented employees who have helped us establish our leadership position in the automation industry over the past century.



The Services Business Development Lead (BDL) is responsible for driving sales growth in North America for the Services business suite of offerings within their assigned geographic territory/domain specialty. Provides sales leadership and consultation within assigned territory as well as assuming direct involvement in major sales opportunities. Provides domain expertise of industries, applications, and technologies relevant to Rockwell Automation Services. Responsible for establishing and maintaining business relationships at key accounts, leveraging existing North America Sales and Distribution relationships with the customer. Also responsible for identifying customer technical /commercial challenges and engaging appropriate resources to bring issues to resolution. Performance of these duties requires a substantial amount of independent interface with Rockwell Automation customers, our authorized distributors, strategic alliance partners, and business unit personnel. Key Responsibilities Responsible for leading Service Sales Pursuits working in collaboration with the sales team to qualify and close service contract opportunities. Responsible for creating and executing strategies for selling contracts. Focus will be on large, impactful opportunities that align with the regional and territory Services business development plan.

Responsible for collaborating with North America sales, distributors, business unit personnel to align new service contract offerings with customers' needs within the region.

Leadership to drive accelerated growth results including the development of collateral and participation to assist the sales force following the Disciplines Sales Process in identifying and meeting requirements.

Individual must exhibit appropriate domain expertise of the services portfolio, focus industries, and applications within assigned geography. Provides domain expertise for service contracts and can provide consultation & business expertise to customers, North America Sales and distribution to create data driven solutions.

Individual engages at key accounts and opportunities within assigned geography by providing presentations, demonstrations, and other activities. Responsible for identifying ways for customers to reduce risks and costs by aligning client needs with our capabilities. Has strong business and financial acumen and comfortable operating at executive level within a client account.

Understands and supports business processes and serves as a liaison between customers and North America sales by collaborating with business unit resources to meet customer needs.

Provides feedback to the business unit on local market data such as trends, competitive information, and conditions. Provide feedback to the business unit on its "Ease of Doing Business" initiatives. Assist in developing strategy to improve. Communicates with the business unit in matters of technical and commercial requirements, new services, promotions, and any additional aid required by the assigned geographic area to ensure customer satisfaction.

Ensures thorough familiarity with policies and procedures relating to standards of business conduct.

Conducts tasks in accordance with the applicable health, safety, quality, and environmental regulations (state/federal laws) as well as Rockwell Automation policies and procedures.

Performs other duties as assigned. EOE, M/F/Disable, Vet

#LI-AS2 Minimum Qualifications Bachelor's Degree

Must be able and willing to travel 50% plus of the time to assigned territories.

Legal authorization to work in the US is required. We will not sponsor individuals for employment visas, now or in the future, for this job opening. Preferred Qualifications Bachelor of Science degree in an Engineering discipline. Additional business-related degree/experience preferred.

8 years prior solid consultative sales experience with proven success in landing complex contract business OR experience with manufacturing/operations

Experience working with all levels of an industrial automation plant (customer) including VPs, plant engineers and OEM machine builders.

Excellent interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills translating analysis into key messages and outcomes for customers.

Proven experience working in complex environments; and managing conflicting demands and expectations.

Proven experience in developing account penetration and development strategies with customer relationships.

Proven ability to work in a collaborative, team-based environment.

Ability to identify sales opportunities and translate client requirements to business requirements.

Work independently with minimal guidance as well as in teams.

Experience with Service Offerings as a service This is a summary of the position's responsibilities and does not reflect the entire scope of work expectations. #LI-MM1 We are an Equal Opportunity Employer including disability and veterans. If you are an individual with a disability and you need assistance or a reasonable accommodation during the application process, please contact our services team at +1 (see application details).


For Subscribers Is Washington County as Republican as everyone thinks? Maybe

A few local voters have converted to Democrats so far this year. Several have left the GOP. Big winners? The unaffiliated.
Hagerstown, MD (21740)

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Considerable cloudiness. Occasional rain showers this afternoon. High near 85F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

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Cloudy with occasional showers overnight. Low around 70F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%.
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The US has sent several big military transport planes to India loaded with supplies, including critically-needed oxygen, for its deadly fight against COVID-19, said President Joe Biden's top security official. India is home to more than a third of the world's latest COVID-19 cases, and the grim count reached a new high on Saturday, with 401,993 cases reported after a 10-day run of more than 300,000 daily cases, US officials said on Sunday.

US sends COVID-19 aid as India reaches more than 400,000 cases

Overburdened hospitals are turning away infected patients as oxygen, and medication levels are running short. Crematoriums are burning the corpses of victims around the clock, filling the air with smoke, NY Daily News reported. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan told ABC News' This Week With George Stephanopoulos that the US has sent India several military planes loaded with supplies, including oxygen, medicines, and vaccine raw materials.

He added that the US is still scouring global markets for additional supplies and enlisting foreign allies in the initiative. Sullivan said, "We're proud of what we've accomplished so far. We still hope we could drive quickly and do more in a situation of this magnitude and ferocity."

Experts warn that a large outbreak like India increases the risk of new variants being immune to existing vaccines. In the aftermath of India's COVID-19 crisis, a US Air Force aircraft carrying relief supplies from the US arrives at the Indira Gandhi International Airport cargo terminal in New Delhi, India, on Friday.

As of Tuesday, the United States has imposed travel restrictions on India, prohibiting most non-US nationals from entering the country. According to the Johns Hopkins University & Medicine Coronavirus Resource Center, more than 215,000 COVID deaths have occurred in India, a country with a population of more than 1.3 billion people trapped in a second wave of the pandemic.

Read Also: White House to Implement US Travel Restrictions from India, but Ban Unlikely to Stop COVID-19

The prohibitions will take effect after midnight on Tuesday, according to the presidential proclamation issued on Friday. Lawful permanent residents, families or children of US citizens and green card holders, parents or siblings of US citizens or green card holders under the age of 21, health care and aid personnel "traveling at the request of the United States Government," and some visa-holding officials, such as UN workers and aircrews, are all excluded. Exemptions have been extended to Indian students, educators, journalists, and others who provide vital infrastructure assistance in countries.

The restrictions were declared on the same day that some initial American support, including 1,100 refill oxygen tanks, 1,700 oxygen concentrators, and several large-scale oxygen generation units, arrived in New Delhi aboard a US Air Force C-17 cargo plane. The help was given to meet India's desperate need for oxygen-related supplies.

In addition, the United States is sending 20,000 doses of Remdesivir, an antiviral medication that is effective in the treatment of COVID-19. India has demanded various high-priority services, such as oxygen concentrators and ventilators, therapeutics and personal protective equipment, and testing materials.

Scott Gottlieb said he is "not sure" about Biden's travel ban in India

On Sunday, former FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb cast doubt on Biden's looming ban on travel to India as a means of avoiding the entry of COVID-19 variants in the US. "I'm not sure what we're trying to achieve. I assure you, if the aim is to avoid the arrival of the new variant 617 that's circulated in India, it's already here," Gottlieb said.

During an appearance on CBS News' "Face the Nation," Gottlieb said this is referred to as "convergent evolution." Because of the virus outbreak in India, the White House declared on Friday that most travel between the United States and India would be prohibited. As Business Insider's John Haltiwanger previously observed, the travel restriction contradicts Biden's previous comments regarding travel bans, which he once said would not stop the COVID-19.

Read Article: Will Brazil Follow India: Country Approaches 400,000 COVID-19 Death Toll Amid Vaccine Disruptions, Loosening Restrictions

@ 2021 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
North Korea assured that the US would face a "very grave situation," after President Joe Biden characterized the country as a threat before a joint session of Congress. "His comment obviously indicates his aim to continue pursuing the hostile policy against the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), as the US has done for over half a century," Kwon Jong Gun, a senior North Korean Foreign Ministry official, said.

North Korea warns the US following Biden's speech

On Sunday, Jake Sullivan, Biden's national security advisor, said that US diplomacy is not directed at hostility but at solutions and ultimately achieving complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. On ABC's This Week, Sullivan said, "We're prepared to engage in diplomacy against the overall target, but work on realistic steps that will help us make strides along the way toward that end.

On Friday, the White House announced that administration officials had conducted a summary of US strategy against North Korea, indicating that Biden intends to depart from the policies of his two most recent predecessors in attempting to halt North Korea's nuclear program. Jen Psaki, the White House press secretary, did not detail the review's conclusions. She did say that the administration would pursue a middle ground between Donald Trump's grand bargaining and Barack Obama's political patience approaches.

Psaki's remarks were not included in Kwon's argument. Following a string of high-profile nuclear and missile tests in 2016-17, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un convened a summit with Trump to discuss the future of his rapidly expanding nuclear arsenal. However, the diplomacy has been delayed for nearly two years due to disagreements about the amount of sanctions relief North Korea should get in exchange for modest denuclearization measures, the AP News reported.

Read Also: North Korea Rejects Biden's Criticism on Missile Launch, Accuses Biden's Administration of 'Gangster-Like Logic'

Biden's approach does not seem to appeal to North Korea

According to Psaki, the Biden administration will take a calibrated, practical approach that is open to and will explore diplomacy with the DPRK and make reasonable progress that improves the United States, our allies, and deployed troops. Biden will host South Korean President Moon Jae-in on May 21, according to the White House. Biden is supposed to make a statement on his approach to North Korea, as per The Washington Examiner.

In January, Kim vowed to expand his nuclear arsenal and develop more high-tech missiles aimed at the United States mainland, saying that the fate of bilateral relations would be determined by whether the US abandoned its aggressive stance. For the first time in a year, he performed short-range ballistic missile testing in March, though he also banned more significant nuclear launches.

"The starting point of discussions will be a freeze in North Korean testing and development of nuclear capabilities and delivery systems if Pyongyang commits to working-level talks," said Leif-Eric Easley, a professor at Ewha University in Seoul.

Also, on Sunday, an unnamed North Korean Foreign Ministry spokesman promised a heavy, separate response to a recent US State Department statement promising to call for transparency for the Kim regime's alarming human rights situation. He described the declaration as a warm-up for a full-fledged brawl with them, as per USA Today.

Meanwhile, Kim Yo Jong, Kim's powerful sister, blasted South Korea for allowing anti-Pyongyang leaflets to cross the border by a group of North Korean defectors in the South. Park Sang-Hak, the group's head, said Friday that he sent 500,000 leaflets by balloon last week, violating a recent, controversial South Korean law that makes such behavior illegal.

Related Article: North Korea Sends Warning to Biden Administration

@ 2021 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
KHive members find celebration and a shared common objective on Twitter. They defend US Vice President Kamala Harris against what they perceive to be an unequal norm applied to political women of color. The biggest fights between Harris's supporters and fellow liberals have gotten personal at times.

KHives: Kamala Harris' online fans who will do anything to defend her

Twitter also deleted the accounts of particular users. As New York Post reporter Laura Italiano announced her resignation this week due to an inaccurate article she was reportedly ordered to write about Vice President Kamala Harris, she was overwhelmed by a crowd of furious Harris supporters.

Italiano was also feeling the pain of the so-called "KHive," Harris's intensely devoted online fan club that has been celebrating and defending the vice president since she became a senator in 2017. They upload selfies in yellow and purple merchandise with her name on them, upload videos of the vice president's addresses, and comment on her various outfits.

The group comes together to honor the vice president and uphold the policies she supports. Members of the KHive come out to support racial, gender, and LGBTQ equality. They advocate abortion rights and congratulate Harris for her carbon-neutral climate strategy.

The KHive's support was evident in the months leading up to the 2020 election, where several members felt compelled to defend Harris. Vice President Harris was a victim in Washington since she was the first Black and South Asian woman to be endorsed for vice president by either major party. She endured a barrage of racial and misogynistic harassment.

Read Also: President Joe Biden, VP Kamala Harris Extend Support to Asian Americans, Vow to Stand Against Racism

KHives are encouraged to speak out for Kamala Harris

Members of the KHive tell Insider that because of Harris' role's historical significance, they feel encouraged to speak out. Last year, a Huffington Post investigation discovered nearly a dozen individuals who said they had been targeted or harassed by certain self-identified KHive members.

Several individuals have said that their personal information was leaked publicly after fans launched hate campaigns against them for previously supporting Democratic candidates. Two women reported that KHive members made veiled threats against their children. And one person claimed that they were forced to relocate their family due to fear of physical harm temporarily, Business Insider reported.

Chantay Berry, a 34-year-old Brooklyn College graduate student and KHive supporter who has previously participated in online discussions, told Insider that the online political environment could be toxic. KHive members have once harassed individuals who have criticized Harris's record as a lawyer or who have criticized her move away from Sen. Bernie Sanders's "Medicare for All" bill.

Sanders's press secretary during the 2020 presidential primary, Briahna Joy Gray, has accused the group of bullying her on several occasions. However, the group also fiercely opposes right-wing media outlets, such as the New York Post, which has strongly criticized Harris on various topics, including immigration, over the last 100 days.

According to LA Times, Harris has courted the KHive's loud and proud despite Biden's low-key online profile. It's not hard to see why. Its supporters have a sense of passionate solidarity, which she missed during her presidential primary campaign in 2020.

Others said they are volunteering with her and the Democratic Party offline. However, she avoids being drawn into some more personal and contentious squabbles among partisans if she becomes too reactive to online discussions or gets dragged into some of the more personal and provocative disputes among partisans.

Read Article: Did 'The Simpsons' Predict Kamala Harris' Fate as the US vice President? Here's What We Know

@ 2021 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Republicans are anticipating cultivating their next generation of national leaders. It is not a veteran battleground-state politician who is piquing interest by merging Trumpism with a down-home conservatism touch. It is South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem, a rancher who is into sharing photos of herself riding horses and shooting pheasants.

Kristi Noem as Republican Prospect

Kristi Noem is dubbed as "Trump in heels." Noem has hired former President Donald Trump's first campaign manager, Corey Lewandowski. The latter is making the bet that Republican voters are seeking for a lady Trump. Although her state's novel coronavirus response was a failure, her Twitter feed reportedly "slaps." She prohibited all asylees from South Dakota but decreed it in a tweet, reported The Bulwark.

The 49-year-old has witnessed her profile rise during the coronavirus pandemic. Also, she had a high-profile moment last summer when she hosted Trump at Mount Rushmore on July 4. She gifted Trump with a Mount Rushmore replica that included his face. Her growing connection with the former president also ignited speculation he was considering swapping her for former Vice President Mike Pence as his running mate, reported Deseret News.

As her name recognition has increased and the GOP celebrated her defiance of lockdown guidelines and face mask mandates, Noem has appeared more frequently in lists of probable contenders for the GOP nomination in 2024. She has denied having any intention of bidding for the presidency. However, they allegedly all do this early in the process.

Read also: Nearly Half of Republicans Do Not Want a COVID-19 Vaccine

According to the betting markets, the South Dakota governor is moving up the list of possible 2024 Republican presidential candidates. Noem has gone up in the rankings on PredictIt, which allows prognosticators to put their money on their choice and buy "stock" in a candidate. The rankings include Noem, Trump, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, and former US United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley.

On January 20, Noem was in Washington to commemorate the inauguration of President Joe Biden as the 46th president of the United States. Eight days later, Noem was interrogated by reporters in her home state whether she regretted tweeting the presidential election was "rigged" in the days following the 2020 results. She responded, "I think that we deserve fair and transparent elections. I think there's a lot of people who have doubts about that," reported CNN.

Last year, she stated that she is not interested in running for president in 2024 and would prefer to remain in South Dakota. In a conference call with Center of the American Experiment, a conservative Minnesota think-tank, she remarked she has no interest.

Her approach to politics has at times made for rocky associations with her base. In April, she got herself into a showdown with the GOP-dominated State Legislature over her veto of a bill prohibiting transgender girls from school sports. She reportedly caved to pressure from the NCAA and "woke" corporations.

Related Article: Facebook Delays Decision on Lifting Trump Ban To Coming Weeks

@ 2021 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
On the way to their prom, two Indiana high school students were in a severe car accident in Arcadia on Saturday. They did not survive the crash and never reached their high school dance.

Two Indiana High School Students N ever Made It to Prom

Last Saturday, two students on the way to Hamilton Heights High School (private school) were victims of a car crash that took their lives on the day of their Senior Prom. The victims of the deadly accident were seniors, identified as Kalen Hart, and her prom date, Lendon Byram, from Cathedral High School in Indianapolis, as reported by CNN.

Their passing was confirmed by the Hamilton County sheriff's spokesperson Ryan McClain, who confirmed officers could not save the students on the scene.

Police confirmed that the crash happened at 5:15 p.m. in Arcadia, 40 miles north of Indianapolis. Officers noted they searched the vehicle's wreckage to check if anyone survived the unfortunate tragedy. Both students in the car were left lifeless from the impact.

A report by the Hamilton County Sheriff's Office noted that the four inside the car was T-Boned (impact) at 5:15 a.m. by an SUV on the way to Kokomo, where the prom was held. The impact was significant enough that both vehicles were knocked off the road and into a field.

Two Indiana high school students went to the prom, the accident occurred with two more in the car's back seat, but they did not get the brunt of the impact and survived with lesser injuries. The other vehicle involved in the mishap was another high school student but did not ask for medical help, said McClain.

Read also: Josh Duggar Controversy Timeline: From "19 Kids and Counting" Scandal to 2021 Arrest

How the crash happened is getting investigated, no proof that it was drugs or alcohol involved in the accident, said the official. Learning of the Arcadia accident, the school suspended the prom when the news came out.

As a response to the unfortunate accident, the Hamilton H.S. Corporation posted on Facebook last Saturday night.

The death of Hart and Byram prompted the HHSC to provide grief counselors and support staff for the students and staff to console everyone affected. More help from HHSC came with information from the National Child Traumatic Stress Network. Cathedral High School also did the same to support students in grief over Byram.

What happened to Byram and Hart is preventable, according to one site that has these suggestions that parents can do, especially during prom night. Here are some statistics to shock most parents, which will be an eye-opener.

Statistics show that 90% of teens drink and drive

Teenaged drinking is the cause of 1/3 of accidents and death among teens

54% of teens drinking 4+ glasses of alcohol on prom night

5000 deaths annually of people under 21-years old due to drinking

One of the best ways to avoid teenage children becoming a statistic is to prevent alcohol intake and impress that drinking and driving do not mix.

The sheriff's office determined Byram and Hart had not drunk alcohol, but the two Indiana teens died in the freak auto collision with an SUV going to the prom. It could be anyone, so teens and alcohol should be avoided.

Related article: Man Constructs Submarine During Lockdown, Dives to Lake Bottom





@ 2021 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Finally, Lockheed Martin and Boeing unveiled the Defiant X, the next-generation replacement for the aging UH-60 Black Hawk, its current all-purpose helicopter. Changes in enemy defenses require a new chopper that faster and quieter, with the strong points of the UH-60.

Defiant X Candidate for U.S. Army's FLRAA

The US Army is looking for another helicopter to replace the Black Hawk, and the Advanced helicopter is a development from its SB>1 demonstrator prototype. Competition for the US Army's Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA) contract that will introduce a helicopter that can fly farther and faster reported News Atlas.

Lockheed Martin and Boeing call their FLRAA candidate one of the speediest, easily maneuverable, and most durable helicopters made by any manufacturer. The former Black Hawk has these qualities except the speed, which made it the oldest helicopter in service with the army and navy branches of the US military.

Sikorsky-Boeing Team Reveals DEFIANT X For FLRAA https://t.co/DmxSXLFP2O pic.twitter.com/jsRCBEBDB2  Joint Forces (@JointForcesNews) January 25, 2021

Winner of FLRAA Will Get the Contract

The control for the army's next-gen replacement for the UH-60 should be a medium class, multi-use helicopter with two times the range and speed of conventional designs. Defiant is different because it uses co-axial rotors that rotate opposite each other, one on the bottom and another on top, which improves overall performance.

Instead of a tail rotor, the Defiant X uses a rear propeller that lessens blades stalling and uneven lift forces in single rotor types like the UH-60. Traveling at slower speeds will be better for twin-rotor designs to handle better in slow speeds.

Read also: Sikorsky S-97 Raider: Next Generation Light Tactical Helicopter with X2 Technology

Next-generation army 'Black Hawk'

Despite the excellent design of the UH-60 to its latest variants, it is feeling its age. Compared to the Defiant that shares similarities to the SB>1 with improvements that can be noticed. Changes made are the sharper nose, aerodynamic airframe, and engine housing to lessen the heat. A less obvious heat signature is one way to make it less visible to infrared trackers of missiles and radar systems.

Its silhouette is a less detectable helicopter, with speed and weapon's loadout to attack and defend itself. Critical is fast speed; it can enter enemy airspace, fly closest to the ground, and drop troops and equipment at landing zones or LZs. An example is dropping special operation troops for covert actions.

Keeping Everything Top Secret

Many of the involved parties are not revealing all the technology used in the next-gen Defiant; no info is given whether the T-55 engine used on the SB>1 has been replaced with an improved turbine. Should the engine remain stock, it would have a max speed of 185 km/h, faster than conventional rotorcraftadvantages of 60% more range with 50% more performance in hot-hover maneuvers when in operation.

Builders of the Defiant had the goal of creating a helicopter that is the same size as the Black Hawk, capable of close formation flying, using the same tactics without any difficulty, techniques, training, and the same infrastructure with little or no changes how it's operated.

For now, the Defiant X is tested in a virtual digital combat environment before the US Army gives the contract to Sikorsky or Lockheed Martin and Boeing as the winner of the FLRAA contract in 2022. First units will be in service by 2035, continuing the legacy of the UH-60 Black Hawk.

Related article: US Air Force Searching for Army's Next High-Technology Rotorcraft

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In euthanized three black bears, human remains were detected after being discovered nearby the location of a dead woman near Durango. The 39-year-old took her dogs for a walk on Friday in Trimble, which is near Durango.

According to Colorado officials, puzzled to find his girlfriend's two dogs outside their home on Friday night, her boyfriend searched for her. He came back home to the two dogs, but she was not there.

Bear Kills Woman

After a search spanned for an hour, he discovered his girlfriend had been killed by a bear while walking the dogs. According to Jason Clay of Colorado Parks and Wildlife, it is a devastating event. He added it is bear habitat, and bears are known to be there and expected to be present in the place, reported Idaho Statesman.

The incident comes less than two weeks following a wilderness guide in Montana being fatally mauled by a grizzly bear that authorities say probably was defending a moose carcass near Yellowstone National Park. Forty-year-old Charles "Carl" Mock was assaulted by an animal last week while fishing north of West Yellowstone near a campground.

A CPW statement indicated that wildlife officers responded and detected consumption indicators on the body and an ample amount of bear scat and hair at the scene. After an autopsy, an official cause of death will be released, reported HuffPost.

Wildlife officers euthanized a female bear and her two offsprings after detecting them with dogs. According to the news release, the body was found off US 550 near Trimble, north of Durango.

Read also: TikTok Challenge Leaves Colorado Boy Brain Dead, 'Unlikely' to Survive

According to CPW Director Dan Prenzlow, "Whenever an animal is euthanized, we receive many questions about why that action was necessary. Our responsibilities to the natural resources of the state are many, but we have no more important duty than to manage these resources in a manner that keeps Coloradans and our visitors safe. Euthanizing wildlife is never an action our officers take lightly, but we have an obligation to prevent additional avoidable harm," reported KDVR.

Officials stated a necropsy, or animal autopsy, and DNA tests will be executed to confirm the mother bear, surmised to be at least 10 years old, assaulted the Colorado woman. Clay remarked anytime there is an attack on a human, their policy is to put the bears down, and their most important job is always to keep human health and safety in mind.

The euthanized bears are being transferred to CPW's Wildlife Health Lab in Fort Collins for an autopsy. Wildlife officers worked throughout the night and day to process the incident. They searched for evidence to authenticate that the incident was indeed a wildlife attack.

According to Cory Chick, the agency's southwest region manager, bear attacks are sporadic. He stated that bears in Colorado are now surfacing from hibernation. This was the first apparent attack CPW has received.

Related Article: US Coast Guard Rescues Skier After Bear Attack, Airlifts Victim from Alaska Mountainside

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Joining a TikTok challenge, a woman claimed that her ex-boyfriend ghosted her in a viral Tik Tok video which already garnered over 4.3 million views. At first, this appears to be an ordinary story. However, viewers were left in a state of shock after knowing the complete story.

Last week, TikTok user @ kathrynverb posted a video that is an answer to user @kekeyee. The question posed is, "What is the most heinous way you've ever been dumped?"

The prompt is one of the latest TikTok trends and has sparked a movement of people on the platform recounting their ghosting anecdotes.

User @kathrynverb shared her experience about how her ex-boyfriend kept her in the dark for two years and never told her that he was lying to her all along. During that time, she never guessed his real identity. She was then ghosted by this man by pretending he died.

She added that he said he was thinking of going to the hospital because he was not feeling so well, but he started feeling better inexplicably. But she never received any message from him again though he told her that he was already well.

All her calls were never answered back, even text messages were ignored by her ex-boyfriend. Soon after, all her calls went into voice mail.

Read also: China Furious Over Planned 'Smash and Grab' of Tiktok, Condemns U.S.

The ghosted woman who posted the viral Tik Tok Video said that she freaked out and called the hospital, thinking her boyfriend was at the hospital, but he disappeared. Not giving up, she went at all the hospitals in the area, but he was not found anywhere. She then called the police to make a missing person's report. But it was later revealed that her boyfriend was using a false name.

Later she said, "So not only did the boyfriend abandon her by faking his own death, and he also deceived by feigning his fake demise. Also, lied to about his real identity for nearly two years."

After posting the viral video for three days, reaching 3.4 million views last Saturday, her story was published with 4.3 million views. Other data about the viral video got 708,000 likes and 13,600 comments. The confession caught the attention of many people online.

TikTok users were shocked at the video confession of @kathrynverb and were critical of the awful boyfriend. Her response to getting ghosted and fooled caught much attention.

One answer to her problem is that she should post his pictures and expose him for what he is.

@kathrynverb answer to the responses about her lying significant other was as stated. "Ya'll are so sweet for trying to find him." She added, "I actually finally do know his real identity, and I'm not ready to share that yet. Thank you."

Another said that her terrible ex might be a serial killer without knowing. hence, she should be grateful since she might be saved from an awful lifetime relationship.

Related article: Loss of Hong Kong's Autonomy Under China's Rule Might Mean Sanctions From US

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The Coast Guard and Border Patrol stationed in San Diego Bay saved illegal immigrants nearly drowned in San Diego Coast last Sunday. They saved 27 illegal immigrants, but three died in the water because of riptides.

Illegal Immigrants Drown in San Diego Coast

The combined rescue operation of the Border Patrol, Coast Guard, came after an attempt to smuggle illegal immigrants via the sea, ending in three deaths via drownings. While 27 were hurt in the disastrous sea crossing, one was driven to a sea cliff, and 22 were washed ashore, reported USA Today.

One comment by the agencies involved in the humanitarian rescue is that more attempts to enter via US coasts have made it more dangerous.

Last Friday, all the agencies dealing with maritime human smuggling will need more resources than what is at their disposal now. Such resources in coastal land, sea, and air are helicopters and planes with increased patrols. Getting extra resources will mean more funding to pay for increased operations.

On Sunday, the extra equipment and extended manpower came into play when a cabin cruiser was torn apart in the San Diego Coast during rough seas. The operation with the kit was near the Cabrillo National Monument.

According to the rescue officers, the shattered debris of the boat and items belonging to the illegals onboard. About three drowned, and seven were barely alive till rescued. But the official account states that twenty-seven were taken for medical care, with hypothermia and more injuries. These illegal immigrants nearly drowned in San Diego Coast because of the torrid conditions of the sea.

Read also: House GOP Say If They Win Midterms, US-Mexico Border Wall Will Be Restarted

One source, San Diego Lifeguard Services Lt. Rick Romero, said that people were drowning and sucked by the riptide in the open sea. He said the boat was crushed by the water and waves easily, remarked the New York Post.

A suspected smuggler has been arrested and will face federal charges, while the trafficked people are sent back home.

Chief Patrol Agent Aaron Heitke of the US Border Patrol's San Diego Sector has alerted two days before of a "dramatic increase" in maritime trafficking operations, cited the World News Net.

The agent also remarked in a quote on the One News Page. "All of these illegal sea crossings are extremely unsafe, and we've seen far too many of them turn catastrophic as traffickers value money instead of the safety of those on board."

He added that when spring and summer come, there is more recreational boating traffic, and human traffickers think it will be the best time to sneak in illegally because it's safer. Heitke expected that law enforcement and public safety agencies would enhance their presence along the San Diego coasts, beaches, and marinas, and San Diego Bay.

Last Thursday, another small wooden boat was with navigation lights 11 miles off the San Diego coast. Authorities intercepted it, and 21 illegal immigrants were caught while two were arrested on federal smuggling charges.

Officials of the Border Patrol and Coast Guard stationed there say when illegal immigrants nearly drowned in San Diego Coast, it is a result of ignoring the dangers.

Related article: 90 People Cramped in a Houston House Are Suspected Victims of Human Smuggling

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Lima, OH (45805)

Today

Mostly cloudy. Scattered showers and storms, especially in the afternoon. High 82F. Winds SE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Mostly cloudy. Chance for an isolated shower or storm. Low 67F. Winds SE at 5 to 10 mph.
Casey Smith

Associated Press / Report for America

INDIANAPOLIS  A bill removing some protections from Indianas already diminished wetlands was signed into law by Gov. Eric Holcomb Thursday despite widespread criticism that it could damage waterways, wildlife and vegetation.

The wetlands measure passed out of the Legislature April 14 and has sparked bipartisan opposition within the Republican-dominated Legislature. Retroactive as of Jan. 1, it eliminates a 2003 law that requires the Indiana Department of Environmental Management to issue permits for construction and development in state-regulated wetlands and end enforcement proceedings against landowners accused of violating current law.

Holcombs signature followed his own reservations earlier in the Legislative session, when he said that the wetlands repeal was a cause for concern. He further allowed staff at the natural resources and environmental management departments to oppose the bill in hearings in January, where state regulatory officials argued that the wetlands must be protected because they purify water, provide habitat for wildlife and reduce flood risks.

Months-long pushback against the bill prompted lawmakers to scale back the intended repeal earlier this month, reducing wetland permitting regulations for croplands and temporary streams, rather than for all wetlands.

Holcomb said he appreciated those changes to the bill and cited the continued protections as critical to his decision to sign the bill Thursday.

Even still, I felt compelled to carefully and deliberately weigh the bills intent to protect property rights against its new limitations on land protections, Holcomb said in a statement Thursday. Under this new regulatory scheme, I believe Hoosier farmers and landowners will continue to be careful stewards of the land.

All Democratic members of the General Assembly, as well as a member of the Senate Republican Caucus, urged the Republican governor to veto the bill last week, citing long term consequences and a need for more in-depth study than what was accomplished in limited committee times during a legislative session in a pandemic.

In a separate letter delivered to Holcombs office Monday, more than 100 organizations called on the governor to veto the bill they claimed will cost the state dearly, when accounting for increased flooding and erosion expenses, loss of groundwater recharge, fewer tourism opportunities and loss of diverse wildlife that makes Indiana special.

This bill opens the door to irrevocable impacts on our rich natural history and puts the wellbeing of millions of Hoosiers at risk, now and well into the future, the letter said. Indiana needs a thorough, inclusive, and deliberative approach to changing the law on such a vital natural resource.

Republican bill author Sen. Chris Garten and other sponsors argued throughout the legislative session that vague language in the current state law, over-enforcement by state regulators and high mitigation fees that drive up housing costs prompted the drafting. They contend removal of state protections would help developers and grow the housing market.

The proposal comes as President Joe Bidens administration reviews the previous administrations rules such as the Navigable Waters Protection Rule, which narrowed the definition of waterways that fall under federal protection.
Associated Press

The Times-Mail

KENDALLVILLE  A northeastern Indiana man has been charged with attempted murder and four other counts following a pursuit through several counties and a gunfight with Fort Wayne police that left him hospitalized for four days.

Justin R. Weikel, 40, of LaOtto, also was charged Friday in Noble County with aggravated battery, unlawful possession of a firearm, drug possession and resisting law enforcement.

Weikel was arrested early on April 22 in Kendallville by Fort Wayne police SWAT team officers and transported to a hospital, police said. He was released from medical care four days later and detained on an outstanding Noble County warrant.

Indiana State Police say the incident last week began shortly after 11:30 p.m. on April 21 when Fort Wayne police tried to stop him for reckless driving. Weikel initially stopped but then sped off while the officer was walking up to his car.

The multi-agency pursuit lasting nearly 45 minutes wound through Allen, DeKalb and Noble counties before Weikel stopped about 12:15 a.m. on the south side of Kendallville, about 120 miles northeast of Indianapolis, police said.

Weikel refused to exit his vehicle and began shooting at officers, who returned fire. When he continued shooting at officers, SWAT teams from state police and Fort Wayne police arrived and took him into custody.
Press Release

3 May 2021

Deutsche Hospitality is taking its comprehensive hygiene concept to a new level in order to allow safe travel in coronavirus-affected times. Guest registration using the Luca app will be introduced, and special nano coatings will be applied to surfaces. The hotel group is also planing to vaccinate all its staff as quickly as possible in order to minimise risk. "The health and safety of our guests and employees are our number one priority at all times," stated Marcus Bernhardt, CEO of Deutsche Hospitality. "We are seeking to deliver our performance commitments, even during the coronavirus crisis. Our aim is to offer an outstanding hospitality experience. For this reason, we have had a holistic safety concept in place since the onset of the pandemic. This is scrutinised and further improved on an ongoing basis." And Mr. Bernhardt went on: "We are ready to welcome all our guests back at last."

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The Luca app  convenient, anonymous and secure

The Luca app will be used in numerous Deutsche Hospitality hotels in Germany in future. Luca facilitates the digital entry of contact details and permits health authorities to carry out a tracing process. This backtracking of contacts enables chains of infection to be interrupted rapidly. Guests visiting hotels and restaurants use their smart phones to check in and check out via a single click. Their visit is documented anonymously, because data is uploaded to the Luca app system in encrypted form and can only be subsequently decoded by the relevant local health authorities. The hotel or restaurant provides an individual QR code via which guests can register their presence. There is no need for the app to be installed for this check-in procedure to take place. The QR code can simply be scanned, and guests are then directed to a web interface where they enter their own details.

Nano coatings for "touch points" that are in frequent use

A group-wide project to apply special nano coatings to common "touch points" is expected to be rolled out during the course of May. These include surfaces such as the Front Office counter, door handles, lift buttons, coffee machines, tables and chairs. The anti-microbial nano coating eliminates viruses and bacteria and will also boost Deutsche Hospitality's hygiene standards yet further.

Staff vaccination programme

Deutsche Hospitality will also offer vaccinations to its employees. Staff will be able to receive their jabs once works doctors are able to take part in vaccinations and as soon as vaccines are available. The company has registered for this scheme and has already reserved the doses which will be needed. The vaccinations themselves will be carried out by a team of company physicians.

In March, Deutsche Hospitality became the first major hotel company in Germany to instigate free rapid testing for all its front-line staff. The tests used are certified by the Paul Ehrlich Institute and may also be purchased by guests staying at the hotels. The Luca app, the nano coatings and the staff vaccination scheme all provide a valuable enhancement to the existing safety concept, which already encompasses the very highest hygiene standards and protective measures for guests and staff alike.
Opinion Article

3 May 2021

Studying at EHL isn't all about business management and housekeeping. There are times when the work extends itself to exciting hands-on F&B tasting sessions from cheese to champagne - and in this case, beer - wonderful beer!

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The American author, Hunter S. Thompson, wrote "Good people drink good beer". So for those of us in need of becoming better beer-savvy people, Executive Chef at EHL Passugg, Alfred Zuberbeuhler, shares insights from a recent EHL beer tasting workshop he organized for his Culinary Arts students.

What are the main areas explored in the workshop?

The workshop took place in January on the Passugg Campus and was attended by students in their 6th semester of the Hotelier-Restaurateur HF course. It was conducted in collaboration with beer brewer and lecturer, Adi Schmid from Biergarage.ch, who runs a brewing center for the finest craft beers from Eastern Switzerland, and with Sacha Schibli from Churer Stadbier.ch, master brewer and owner of the local microbrewery which the students visited as part of the workshop.

During this workshop, we were able to taste near to twenty beers. The range was immense starting with a very light raspberry flavored aperitif beer, ending with a dark full-bodied beer with caramel notes from Scotland.

The program:

Workshop on the taste senses: sweet, sour, bitter, salty, spicy, umami, and how the tongue & nose detect the different tastes.

Glass culture: the importance of the right glass choice.

Food parcours: the basics of food & beer pairing.

Executed food pairing: a menu is served in combination with the right beer.

Students do a 20-question multiple-choice test.

Lastly, a visit to the Chur Stadtbier microbrewery where beer production is explained.

How does the type of glass impact the way we taste and enjoy beer?

Beer needs air to breath and develop its full taste and aromas, therefore a tall glass with a wide opening is always preferred. However, there are many variations on the theme, from the typical pint glass or mug to the more elegant goblet or tulip. The shape of the glass should be chosen depending on the amount of head on the beer, the swirling needed to release the aromas, the amount of carbonation, the type of 'lip' on the glass for small or large sips. Then of course, there's the amount of beer a glass can hold that dictates how much one ends up drinking! Typically, a tall, slim pilsner glass holds less beer than a pint glass.

Can you give us some good examples of beer & food pairing?

Beer can be paired with any food, but in general, we should look for similarities. An intense cheese should be paired with a full-bodied beer rather than a light blonde. Baked dishes such as a tarte flamande, pizza or a cheese quiche are great with a Weizen beer. The pairing is better when the taste notes are the same, i.e. umami goes well with umami intense food such as mushrooms, tomatoes, meat. A sweeter beer goes well with a dessert, etc.

What role does beer knowledge play in the curriculum of the EHL students?

With an average consumption of 54.5lt of beer per resident, beer plays a big role in Switzerland; therefore, beer is definitely as important in the school's curriculum as wine knowledge. This tasting and pairing course with our Culinary Arts students shows them that there is so much more to discover than just regular draft beer. Having a good knowledge of beer and how to recommend the right beer with the food ordered is definitely a big advantage in the operation and increases the trust and loyalty of the customer.

What special factors does an artisanal beer have that an industrially-produced one doesn't?

Artisanal beer stands out thanks to the endlessly possible varieties. Artisanal beers are brewed locally and live in symbioses with their environment. The master brewers behind those beers are passionate and eager to develop new flavors and tastes. Industrial beers are streamlined and focused on sales and profitability. A microbrewery is able to not only sell a product but equally sell the story and the people behind it.

Which countries are the best beer producers and why?

Beer is produced in so many countries, each with their own different beer heritage. This question is not easy to answer as it will always depend on personal taste, but there are a few countries which definitely lead the pack with their products and long history of beer culture.

Germany: World-famous for beer culture and their "Beer Purity Law".

Belgium: Beer culture is so important there that it made its way onto the UNESCO intangible heritage list in 2016.

The Czech Republic: Often heralded as the home of modern beer with their Pilsner Beer, a pale lager that takes its name from a Czech city.

Ireland: Known for their stout beers, the most famous would be the very dark, dry Guinness.

List your top 5 desert island beers

Again, this is a very personal opinion and, as there are countless artisanal beers in the making, this list can never be definitive.

"Appenzeller Amber" by Locher Brau Appenzell, the brewery is famous for their innovative approach. "Bundner Ale" by Stadtbier Chur, a great microbrewery where visitors are welcome. "Oldtimer" by Biergarage St. Gallen, a great microbrewery run by Adi Schmid who also offers beer workshops. "Noctus 100" by Riegele Brauerei Augsburg DE. "Orkney Porter" by Swannay Brewery, Scotland.

What are the magic properties of beer that we should all know about?

Beer reduces stress, helps prevent kidney stones, protects your heart and reduces bad cholesterol.

Plato said, "He is a wise man who invented beer".

The very popular Swiss Dr Gab's and Cap'taine Mousse craft beers are very successful brands set up and run by EHL alumni.

Find out more about different types of beer here.
The worst nightmare of the oil and gas industry has come true: environmental groups are using satellites to observe and report greenhouse gas emissions from their well pads.

The Environmental Defense Fund, Harvard University, Georgia Tech and the SRON Netherlands Institute for Space Research used a European Space Agency detector to take 200,000 readings across the 61,000 square-mile Permian Basin. The average rate of methane emissions had recently doubled, according to data published in the journal Science Advances.

Methane is a far more damaging greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide. Well operators release it while drilling and completing a well, but it also leaks from malfunctioning equipment. Some environmentalists want to ban new natural gas wells because the industry does not control methane leaks.

EDFs data paint drillers in a poor light.

TOMLINSONS TAKE: Carbon capture offers promise for Texas oil and gas companies' future

These are the highest emissions ever measured from a major U.S. oil and gas basin. Theres so much methane escaping from Permian oil and gas operations that it nearly triples the 20-year climate impact of burning the gas theyre producing, co-author Dr. Steven Hamburg, chief scientist at EDF, said while describing data collected between May 2018 and March 2019.

The first eight months of 2020 were just as bad, despite the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Kayrros, a consulting firm that combines satellite technology with other observation tools to develop industry intelligence. The problem is not just in the Permian Basin.

Based on the number of methane hotspots detected in the oil and gas sector, visible methane emissions around the world have increased by approximately 32 percent (in 2020), according to a Kayrros analysis. In Algeria, Russia and Turkmenistan, the increase is even higher, totaling over 40 percent.

No one seriously thinks we will eliminate the need for oil and natural gas anytime soon. But investors, buyers and consumers are expecting the industry to produce them cleaner. France and Ireland recently rejected liquefied natural gas shipments from Texas due to concerns over Permian Basin emissions.

The supermajor oil companies, including Exxon Mobil, BP and Shell, want stricter limits on methane to help the industrys reputation. But every company should be worried about their rating on environmental, social and governance issues, something Wall Street calls ESG.

Project Canary, a Denver-based firm, hopes to make a business out of installing sensors on individual well pads and offering real-time monitoring to certify that an operator has adopted best practices. The proprietary Trustwell Certification Process continuously tests for air or water contamination and independently relays the encrypted data to a cloud-based system.

The data are collected by Project Canary, which then certifies the wells ESG performance for investors or customers, explained CEO Chris Romer.

This pad-level ESG-rating is going to go viral to the energy markets because investors, consumers markets as well as ultimately the commodity buyers, now want transparency on methane intensity, carbon footprint as well as the most rigorous ESG data they can get their hands on, Romer said.

The company has contracts with 32 firms, including Chevron, Chesapeake Energy, Bayswater, EQT, Kinder Morgan and UP Energy. Houston-based NextDecade recently signed a contract to certify liquefied natural gas exports from its upcoming Rio Grande Valley export terminal.

So far, the industry has completed 16 transactions for natural gas that was certified as responsibly-sourced. Project Canary was involved in 14 of them. Customers paid an extra 6 cents a thousand cubic feet, while the monitoring only cost them 1 cent.

While Project Canary independently collects the data, it belongs to the company being monitored. Executives decide who can see it but cannot adjust the data or collection period. Romer said his companys success depends on becoming a trusted rating service, such as those used for corporate bonds.

TOMLINSONS TAKE: Texas should boost clean energy innovation, not discourage investors

What this market needs is trusted independent data, Romer said. We plan to be the Moodys or S&P of carbon economics  energy markets need radical transparency on carbon economics because there is a hard cap on how much carbon we can put in the air.

To help maintain its independence, Romer established Project Canary as B-corporation, which makes creating a social benefit its primary purpose. Oil and gas companies pay a flat fee for the monitoring services, Project Canarys only business.

Energy executives are correct when they say the world will need oil and gas for at least another century. But climate scientists are equally valid when they say we must get to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

The oil and gas industry will find it harder to attract investors or customers unless they can certify they are producing responsibly. And if they try to cheat, there will always be eyes in the sky ready to catch them.

Tomlinson writes commentary about business, economics and policy.

twitter.com/cltomlinson

chris.tomlinson@chron.com
The Houston pipeline operator Enterprise Products Partners said Monday that it earned more than $1 billion in the first quarter, lifted in part by natural gas sales at high prices during the winter storm in February.

Enterprise reported a first quarter profit of $1.34 billion, downs slightly from $1.35 billion during the same period in 2020. Revenues rose 22 percent to $9.16 billion in the period from $7.48 billion in the first quarter of 2020.

DRILLING RIGS: Rig count rises slightly

The company said it prepared for the storm by weatherizing its pipelines, which paid off as it sold natural gas to utilities, industrial customers, and electricity generators as demand and prices skyrocketed. The company said it bought additional natural gas during the storm, which it also sold at high prices.

The company, however, said it saw brief outages at most of its Texas processing plants and fractionator facilities, which take processed gas and separate it into individual components such as ethane and propane. Most facilities were back up within a day, with the remaining facilities down no more a few of days, a spokesperson for the company said.

In addition, propane dehydrogenation and octane enhancement facilities at Enterprise's Mont Belvieu facility were down for planned maintenance.

All facilities are now fully operational, according to a spokesperson for the company.

Enterprise said it also deployed personnel to stay at the facilities and nearby hotels to maintain operations during the storm.

Profits for the first quarter 2021 were reduced by an approximately $66 million impairment charge related to the companys Val Verde Gas Gathering Company in New Mexico, which takes coal bed methane natural gas and processes it into a gas that can be transported through the pipelines, and then to an industrial user or storage facility. Val Verde was put up for sale at the end of the first quarter, with a sale pending but no closing date set, according to a spokesperson for the company.

Coming out of the pandemic, Enterprise said it has a positive outlook as global demand continues to improve for crude, natural gas liquids, primary petrochemicals and refined products.



Diesel demand actually exceeds pre COVID-19 norms in much of the world and gasoline demand is picking up, already exceeding 2019 levels in some countries, A. J. Jim Teague, Director and Co-CEO at Enterprise, said during a Monday morning earnings call.
WASHINGTON  The United States will move rapidly to phase out the use of climate-warming hydrofluorocarbons in air conditioners and other products, the Environmental Protection Agency announced Monday.

The Biden administration is aiming reduce HFC production by 85 percent over the next 15 years and ban outright HFCs that have readily available alternatives, goals set forth in bipartisan legislation passed by Congress last year.

"With this proposal, EPA is taking another significant step under President Bidens ambitious agenda to address the climate crisis, EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. It will help promote American leadership in innovation and manufacturing of new climate-safe products. Put simply, this action is good for our planet and our economy."

RELATED: EPA under pressure to ban HFCs

HFCs were developed to replace aerosol chemicals that were damaging the earth's ozone layer but have since been found to be hundreds to thousands of times more potent than carbon dioxide in warming the earth's atmosphere. Reducing the use of HFCs globally is expected to avoid a 0.5 degree Celsius increase in global warming.

Chemical companies and environmentalists alike have called for a shift to less problematic coolants, a number of which are already being produced along the Texas and Louisiana Gulf Coast.

A number of plants have opened worldwide to produce HFO-1234yf, an alternative refrigerant to HFCs. Honeywell, the New Jersey-based industrial company, has begun producing the chemical at two plants in Baton Rouge, La., and Delaware-based Chemours has opened a plant in Corpus Christi, which came online in 2019 and is billed as the largest refrigerant plant in the world.

Karen Meyers, chairman of the Alliance for Responsible Atmospheric Policy, an industry group, said in a statement the action by EPA was, "key to achieving an orderly HFC phasedown in the United States, creating a uniform federal approach to this effort, and capturing significant projected environmental and economic benefits."
NEW YORK (AP)  It was anxiety  and not a problem with the shots  that caused fainting, dizziness and other short-term reactions in dozens of people at coronavirus vaccine clinics in five states, U.S. health officials have concluded.

Experts say the clusters detailed Friday by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are an example of a phenomenon that's been chronicled for decades from a variety of different vaccines. Basically, some people get so freaked out by injections that their anxiety spurs a physical reaction.

We knew we were going to see this as mass COVID-19 vaccine clinics were set up around the world, said Dr. Noni MacDonald, a Canadian researcher who has studied similar incidents.

FROM HOUSTON TO INDIA: As COVID rages, Peter Hotez's vaccine provides hope for India's massive population

The CDC authors said the reports came in over three days, April 7 to 9, from clinics in California, Colorado, Georgia, Iowa and North Carolina. The investigation was based on interviews with, and reports by, clinic staff.

Many of the 64 people affected either fainted or reported dizziness. Some got nauseous or vomited, and a few had racing hearts, chest pain or other symptoms. None got seriously ill.

All received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, and four of the the five clinics temporarily shut down as officials tried to sort out what was happening. Health officials at the time said they had no reason to suspect a problem with the vaccine itself.

Of the three COVID-19 vaccines authorized in the U.S., only J&Js requires just one dose. That probably makes it more appealing to people who are nervous about shots and might leave them "more highly predisposed to anxiety-related events, the CDC report said.

Some of the sites advertised they were giving J&J shots, noted Dr. Tom Shimabukuro, who leads the CDC's COVID-19 vaccine safety monitoring work and is one of the study's authors.

VAXXING FOR TWO? Doctors' conflicting messages leave pregnant women confused about COVID vaccine

The CDC found that about a quarter of the people reporting side effects had similar things happen following past vaccinations.

The post-shot reactions differ from a very rare kind of side effect that led to a pause in administration of the J&J vaccine. At least 17 vaccine recipients have developed an uncommon kind of blood clot that developed in unusual places, such as veins that drain blood from the brain, along with abnormally low levels of the platelets that form clots.

Other types of side effects from the coronavirus vaccines are not unusual. Another CDC report released Friday looked at side effects reported by more than 300,000 J&J vaccine recipients. More than half said they experienced a sore arm, fatigue or headache. A third reported fever or chills, and about a fifth said they were nauseous.

But the clusters at the five clinics are believed to be stress-related.

MacDonald, a professor of pediatrics at Dalhousie University in Nova Scotia, said studies have indicated that 10% to 15% of adults are afraid of injections.

Many people who experience stress-related symptoms are younger, and past clusters from other shots have involved school students. Some hyperventilate, some experience nausea, some reported headaches. And some had what at first appears to be more severe, neurological symptoms, she said.

One cluster that MacDonald reviewed involved 14 U.S. military reservists who developed symptoms after getting flu shots in 2009. The first was a 23-year-old man who one day later reported progressive weakness in his arms and legs but fully recovered.

Everybody thinks this is (only) young teenage girls" who experience this, MacDonald said. Well, it isnt."

It can start with one person fainting that can set off a chain reaction of symptoms in anxious people who see or hear about that first person. These days, people also react to things they read or watch in Facebook posts or on other sites.

Some doctors have referred to the phenomenon as a form of mass hysteria, but MacDonald rejected the term.

These people are not crazy," but rather are experiencing real physical responses to psychological stress, she said.

___

The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institutes Department of Science Education. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
Harris County prosecutors must share an offense report and other records with defense attorneys representing current and former HPD officers tied to the Harding Street raid, a state court ruled last week.

In a brief ruling released Thursday, a three judge panel from the states First Court of Appeals, based in Houston, denied arguments from the Harris County District Attorneys Office that the documents were work product that should not have to be turned over.

The ruling  the latest in a court fight between prosecutors and the accused officers defense attorneys  comes more than two years after the Harding Street raid, in which Houston police narcotics officers raided a home in south Houston, killing two people, Dennis Tuttle and Rhogena Nicholas. In the raids aftermath, investigators discovered the narcotics officer who led the operation had lied about buying drugs from the couples home.

COURT FIGHT: Houston seeks to hire high-powered firm for more than $1M to fight Harding Street lawsuit

The officer, Gerald Goines, is now charged with murder.

Now, a dozen current and former officers face charges stemming from the incident and a subsequent investigation that uncovered overtime theft allegations  as well as a federal civil rights lawsuit against the city of Houston.

The recent ruling  issued by justices Peter Kelly, Sarah Beth Landau, and Richard Hightower  follows similar decisions from two district court judges who ordered prosecutors to turn over the reports requested from defense attorneys.

Harris County District Attorneys spokesman Dane Schiller said prosecutors plan to appeal the ruling to the Court of Criminal Appeals, the states highest criminal court.

The local appeals court basically punted, by not answering the question, Do we have to share these documents at this time? he said. As such, we will definitely ask a higher court, the Court of Criminal Appeals, to make that determination.

Ed McClees represents former Sgt. Thomas Wood, one of the officers accused of overtime theft. McClees said he was pleased the appellate court had agreed with similar judgments from two past judges, but noted that the DAs office has already signaled it intends to appeal the ruling to the states highest criminal court.

Were disappointed (prosecutors) are going to try to continue to withhold these reports by appealing the Court of Appeals decision, but were confident the Court of Criminal Appeals will rule the same way as all of the other courts, he said. Clearly theres something in those reports they dont want us to see.

Wrong Door: Botched Houston drug raid not the first

The day after the Court of Appeals ruling on the criminal case, a federal judge presiding over the civil lawsuit filed by relatives of the two people killed in the raid ordered the attorneys representing the city of Houston to produce other documents to attorneys representing relatives of Tuttle and Nicholas.

The lawsuit accused the city of Houston, former Chief Art Acevedo, and a dozen current and former narcotics officers of a wide range of misconduct, unlawful search and seizure, and other civil rights violations.

At the scheduling conference, Judge Alfred H. Bennett denied requests from the city attorneys to dismiss the lawsuit against the city and against Acevedo, and ordered the city to begin producing discovery documents within 30 days.

Nicholas family attorney Mike Doyle cheered the ruling and said he hoped it would lead to more answers about the fatal incident.

The Nicholas family is hopeful the court order will help end the citys two-year, million-dollar coverup of what happened before, during and after the murderous raid, Doyle said. The family wants the mayor and police chief to go beyond the distracting reform rhetoric and be truly accountable for what happened at the home of Rhogena and her husband.

Mary Benton, a spokeswoman for Mayor Sylvester Turner, said: Matters related to the Harding Street case are proceeding in a courtroom. At this time, the city of Houston chooses not to publicly discuss matters related to the recent ruling or ongoing investigation.

st.john.smith@chron.com
It took two years of pestering for Highland Park ISD to formally evaluate Kylie Virag for dyslexia in the spring of 2019.

After the test showed Kylie, then 8, had the reading disorder, her mother, Stephanie Virag, thought she would receive special services like she did for her previously diagnosed speech issues.

Officials in the Dallas district, however, refused to include dyslexia in Kylies individualized education plan, a federally required document that outlines goals and services for students who receive special education services. They said dyslexia was not a specific learning disability, and that Kylie would receive more minor accommodations.

Despite the limited help, Kylie failed to improve, prompting her parents to sell their house and move to another school district.

I wasnt going to put Kylie back in that situation, when teachers were not running the program right, Virag said. We just wanted help. We wanted them to help her learn.

More than three years after federal authorities called out Texas dyslexia practices in a sweeping investigation into special education, state officials finally may be poised to act on the U.S. Department of Educations orders.

More Information Texas kept thousands of disabled kids out of special education at public schools. Read our investigative series at houstonchronicle.com/denied See More Collapse

Legislation that would require school districts to fully evaluate students suspected of having dyslexia and meet with parents afterward to discuss options will be heard by the full Texas House of Representatives in the coming weeks, following unanimous approval by the Committee on Public Education.

The State Board of Education has pledged to add an action item to its June meeting to overhaul parts of its Dyslexia Handbook.

And the Texas Education Agency has flipped its position on how the state and local school districts should handle the learning disability, acknowledging for the first time this year that the states guidance for evaluating students for the disorder is flawed. That change came after a letter from the U.S. Department of Education last year that said that guidance was confusing for districts.

While the pending actions represent a shift in the states view of the disorder, parents and advocates say many school districts still are violating dyslexic students rights under federal disability law by refusing to consider them for special education.

The Department of Education ordered wholesale changes to Texas dyslexia practices in January 2018, following a federal investigation that found significant deficiencies. Among them: some districts refused to consider any dyslexic students for special education, practices for evaluating and serving dyslexic students varied across the state, and confusion about the states polices was rampant.

The federal probe was launched after a Houston Chronicle investigation found the state systematically kept disabled students out of special education by placing an artificial cap on the percentage of students each district could serve.

Investigators found about 20 percent of dyslexic students received special education services, while many more were given reading interventions or offered minor accommodations.

Little has changed.

A TEA presentation from October 2020 showed a little more than 25 percent of Texas dyslexic students are served through special education, while about 75 percent are given lesser services.

Federal law  the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act or IDEA  classifies dyslexia as a specific learning disability that could qualify students for special education services.

In Texas, however, state law and guidance does not require districts to test dyslexic students through IDEA. Instead, the state allows districts to evaluate students through a program known as Section 504 of the federal Rehabilitation Act. Students that have those so-called 504 plans typically receive lesser accommodations, such as the use of speech-to-text software or additional time on tests. They do not guarantee specialized instruction and goals to make sure dyslexic students are on track to learning how to read, unlike the guarantees afforded through IDEA.

Advocates say without those guarantees, schools are able to do little to help students with dyslexia and similar disabilities, and can halt services whenever they choose. Those issues have been exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic, when schools have struggled to provide resources for all disabled students. Advocates say many schools simply stopped providing extra help to dyslexic students with 504 plans and other accommodations.

That is what happened with Kylie when her Highland Park ISD school closed in March 2020.

They stopped services for Kylie, period, her mother, Stephanie said. We got a tutor and probably spent $20,000, not even counting the moving.

Highland Park ISD officials issued a statement acknowledging dyslexia services did stop briefly due to COVID-19, but said they resumed virtually. All students who missed out on services during that pause will be eligible for make-up services to help them catch up, they said.

The district also said it honors all parent requests for special education evaluations, but students do not always qualify.

No student in HPISD identified with dyslexia  regardless of whether through Section 504 or the IDEA  is refused services for dyslexia, officials wrote.

Qualifying

At the heart of the issue: Should students with dyslexia and related disorders be considered for special education?

Not every dyslexic student needs or wants special education services. Some do fine with minor accommodations and reading interventions. The problem, some advocates and parents say, is that without the protections offered by IDEA, districts can take those accommodations away from students without their parents permission and refuse to provide potentially beneficial therapies.

A 504 guarantees you nothing, said Sally Shaywitz, co-director of Yale Universitys Center for Dyslexia and Creativity. It says you can have accommodations, but it doesnt guarantee you things under IDEA. It doesnt guarantee you instruction that will make a difference.

Even with special education services, some dyslexic students have still struggled to get the help they need.

Rebecca Al-Bannays daughter, Amelia, originally was denied special education in November of 2018 when officials at her North East ISD school near San Antonio told Al-Bannay her daughter did not qualify because she was only one grade level behind.

After months of her mother fighting the district, Amelia qualified for special education in May 2019. The services she was getting, however, came to a halt during the pandemic. Desperate to get Amelia help, Al-Bannay enrolled her in a charter school last fall. After a week and a half, the school told her its special education teacher would not be certified to teach dyslexic students until January.

Al-Bannay enrolled her in another charter school, only to see it to ignore much of Amelias individualized education plan, refusing even to provide her with class notes and materials.

Ultimately, Al-Bannay put Amelia back at her original NEISD campus. Now, she said she is fighting for Amelia to keep access to assistive technologies, such as speech-to-text software, in her education plan.

They only have us for two more weeks of fifth grade,  Al-Bannay said. Why fight so hard to take things away from her?

Handbook flaws

School staffs get almost all of their guidance on how to evaluate and help dyslexic students from one source: The Texas Dyslexia Handbook.

It has been rewritten several times over the decades, most recently after the U.S. Department of Education ordered changes in 2018.

Advocates and parents, however, say issues remain baked into the newer version approved by the State Board of Education in 2018. For example, the handbook tells schools they can evaluate students through the 504 process without letting parents know they have the option of having their children evaluated for special education, or explaining the difference between the two programs.

In a February 2019 letter, members of the TEAs Continuing Advisory Committee wrote the new dyslexia handbook predetermines educational need without requiring a full evaluation. The Texas Association of School Psychologists, Disability Rights Texas, Decoding Dyslexia and the Texas Council of Administrators of Special Education also have called for changes to the handbook.

The State Board of Educations Committee on Instruction heard testimony April 15 from disability advocates and parents of dyslexic students who urged the committee to eliminate all mentions of the processes for screening from the handbook.

Angela Bolton Smith, from the Dallas area, said her school district refused to provide any help to her son until he was in second grade.

My son began to gradually change during the school year, he was no longer happy to go to school, Smith said. He began to hate school, and he began to give up on learning. Just imagine a 6-year-old child calling himself dumb daily.

Justin Porter, the TEAs special education director, said Texas is the only state to have two different identification routes for dyslexia, prompting confusion.

TEA responsibility

Sonja Kerr, an Austin-based special education attorney, said the TEA could have cleared up the confusion around dyslexia years ago by providing clear guidance to school districts, monitoring their compliance with IDEA, and coming down on districts that violate the law.

Theyve been punting this issue by saying Under state law, this and that, but they cant do that, Kerr said. Theyve gotten away with it for many, many, many years, but they cant punt this back and forth between (the State Board of Education) and the lege. They have a specific duty.

TEA issued a statement in which officials said the State Board of Education has regulatory oversight of statewide dyslexia resources, and that they are advocating for the board to make changes to the handbook. It also said the agency is engaged in an ongoing review of dyslexia services in Texas.

Meanwhile, parents have stepped up to try to fill the void.

Virag and four other parents in her area  who call themselves the kitchen table moms  spent last Monday and Tuesday in Austin talking to lawmakers and testifying before the House Committee on Public Education about HB 3880, which they drafted with some help from statewide dyslexia organizations.

If passed, it would require schools to give students suspected of having dyslexia a full individual evaluation under IDEA. Afterward, schools officials would be required to meet with parents to discuss the results and their options, including whether they would want their children given special education services or other accommodations.

Robbi Cooper, state leader for policy with the Decoding Dyslexia advocacy group, said the legislation would not automatically force dyslexic students into special education. Instead, she said, it would give parents more information about their students strengths and weaknesses so they can decide whether they should be served through special education or another route.

Right now, parents dont even know what theyre agreeing to, Cooper said of districts offering more minor accommodations through 504 plans rather than special education. Its an evaluation, its a standalone thing. Once the evaluation comes back, then the school and you go through and make decisions about placement and eligibility all under the umbrella of protection offered by IDEA.

That already is a requirement under federal law, but Kerr, Virag and other advocates say they hope districts will be more inclined to honor families rights if they are enshrined in state law.

Were just keeping our fingers crossed that it finally goes through, said Elizabeth Wilson, one of the Kitchen Table Moms. And were going to work to make it go through.

shelby.webb@chron.com
As the COVID-19 pandemic raged ever further out of control in India, it was easy to miss last weeks shred of good news: Biological E Ltd., one of that countrys largest vaccine manufacturers, had successfully completed Phase I and II safety trials of a vaccine developed in Houston, and will soon begin large-scale testing in India and other countries.

If all the stars align, it might be released for emergency use later this summer, said Peter Hotez, who co-directs the vaccine-development effort, a partnership between Texas Childrens Hospital and Baylor College of Medicine.

Even assuming the best, that means the vaccine wont be available in time to ease the COVID wave now crushing India, where the official death toll has passed 208,000. Crematoriums and hospitals are overwhelmed. On Friday, India reported 386,452 new infections: an alarming global record suggesting that far more deaths will follow in coming weeks.

On HoustonChronicle.com: Dr. Peter Hotezs battle against the anti-science confederacy is a lifetime in the making

The hope is that the Houston-developed vaccine will help prevent other such waves. The vaccine is low-cost, easily produced in enormous quantities, and easy to distribute. If the testing proves it effective, it could play an important role in the global fight against COVID  particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

Biological E is preparing to make more than 1 billion doses of the vaccine, at least some of which would be deployed in India. At present, only 9 percent of Indians have received a first dose of the India-created Covaxin vaccine; Covishield (the Indian version of AstraZeneca); or Sputnik V. Two percent of Indians are fully vaccinated.

The vaccines currently available cant be manufactured fast enough to meet that demand, Hotez noted: Most people dont understand the scale and magnitude of India. Think what it means for a country to have more than a billion people. To interrupt transmission, you need to vaccinate 80 percent of people. That means 800 million people. And since most vaccines require two doses, we could be talking about 1.6 billion doses.

If anything, Hotezs off-the-cuff estimate is an understatement: Indias population is roughly 1.4 billion.

The global demand for vaccine is even higher, noted Andrew Natsios, director of Texas A&Ms Scowcroft Institute of International Affairs and a former administrator of the U.S. Agency for International Development. The only way to stop these mutations is to get herd immunity for the whole world, he said. COVID-19 doesnt stop at national borders.

Unlike the vaccines currently in use in the U.S., which are based on new technologies, the Texas Childrens Hospital/Biological E vaccine calls for traditional techniques and manufacturing processes. Like the widely used hepatitis B vaccine, it uses yeast to produce proteins that the virus contains. Once injected, those proteins train the human immune system to recognize the target virus and swing into action.

Vaccines have been made this way for 50 years or more, said Maria Elena Bottazzi, who co-directs the Houston vaccine lab. That, she explains, means that both manufacturers and distribution sites already have the experience and equipment needed: Its exactly the same way that they make and store the vaccine for hepatitis B.

The Houston labs vaccine is one of a dozen thats received support from CEPI, the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations, a global foundation that finances vaccine research.

That it only requires regular refrigeration is huge, said Natsios. Not many places can handle -70 degrees.

On HoustonChronicle.com: Dr. Peter Hotez: Well be pretty damn close to normal by summer

The vaccines projected cost  around $1.50 per dose, meaning $3 for both a first shot and a booster  is significantly cheaper than the prices that other vaccines currently command. (Moderna, for instance, has said it will charge between $27 and $37 per dose.)

The vaccine requires a second dose, administered roughly 28 days after the first. It would be better if it didnt require the second dose, said Natsios.

The vaccine could have been developed more quickly, Hotez noted. The first missed opportunity came in 2016. The Texas Childrens Hospital lab was ready to begin human testing on a vaccine for SARS-1, a coronavirus closely related to the one that causes COVID-19. But that was 10 years after the SARS-1 outbreak in China, and by then, neither federal funders nor investors were willing to support the testing needed to prepare the vaccine. So untested, that vaccine went into a freezer.

Had that vaccine been ready to go when this coronavirus hit, Hotez says, it might have provided cross-protection  and would have given researchers a leg up on the new threat.

The second delay came at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Federal funding went mainly to newer vaccine technologies, which promised to move through testing and begin manufacturing more quickly.

But those newer technologies came with new problems. Few of the worlds vaccine factories could make the newer vaccines, and existing distribution systems often cant handle new requirements such as super-cold storage.

They never thought wed need so many doses, Hotez said. Once the virus was out of control, those newer technologies couldnt scale up.

Without much federal funding, the labs work was delayed. Hotez dedicated much of his time during the pandemics early months to raising money. Texas donors  including Titos Vodka and the Kleburg Foundation  made the research possible.

Texas does science in a different way, Hotez said. We support science locally. Thats why we moved our lab here: Were supported by Texas Childrens Hospital, Baylor and philanthropists. If wed had to rely on the National Institute of Health for everything, it would have been hard.

lisa.gray@chron.com, twitter.com/LisaGray_HouTX
At 2 a.m. Friday, Ilden Lopez just wanted to get out.

His legs were cramped in the back of a pickup truck. His body was sore from a hellish journey that began 25 days earlier in Jalapa, Guatemala with a promise to his wife that he would do anything in this world to lift her and their two young children out of poverty.

Arriving at a two-story home in southwest Houston last week was the closest he came to that dream. He and 15 other migrants were ushered from the double cab truck, where some were hidden under plywood in the bed and others packed in the cabin.

Just after 9 a.m., a Houston Police Department SWAT team swarmed the property in response to a kidnapping call, only to uncover a possible smuggling operation. Some of the 90 migrants found huddled inside the house told the Houston Chronicle their stories of escaping their homelands only to end up sick, starving and held for ransom in Houston.

MORE: 5 people charged with federal crimes in connection with stash house

Rogelio Mendoza, an immigrant from Hidalgo, Mexico, said he was terrified when police stormed in.

We were in a room on the second floor with like 40 people, kind of dark because the windows were closed, said Mendoza. All of a sudden, we heard a loudspeaker and they were saying, This is the police, the house is surrounded, come out with your hands up, he said. We were really scared, but nobody moved. We didnt know what to do.

Lopez, who had fallen asleep kneeling in the only small space he could find on the first floor, remembers hearing the loudspeaker repeating the message. Shortly after, the police broke through the front door.

My heart was pounding. I thought they were going to abuse us and treat us like animals like the other people did, said Lopez. I thought I was going to be with my cousin soon here in America, and now this!

This was the third investigation of migrant smuggling operation inside a Houston home in recent months.

In January, police investigated a possible human smuggling operation involving two dozen people held captive in roughly the same area of southwest Houston.

Late last year, also in a nearby neighborhood, police found more than two dozen people inside a residence after a man escaped the home in his underwear. Federal officials charged a Honduran man in that case.

The discoveries of these so-called stash houses, where migrants are often held until they can be transported elsewhere, illustrates how for decades Houston has served as a hub for smugglers. The flow of immigrants into the city could increase in the coming months with the ongoing surge at the border.

Under the Biden Administration, border apprehension reached a record of more than 170,000 in March. Those who make it across, face continued danger, including trafficking and exploitation.

***

To Lopezs surprise, the dozens of officers who occupied the premise were very good with us.

He said officers brought pizza for the immigrants, many of whom hadnt eaten much in days. That was the first meal I had in three days, Lopez said.

Patricia Cantu, assistant chief of the HPD, said the officers bought pizzas from their own pockets after seeing the deplorable conditions in which the migrants were found. She said they were stripped of their possessions so they would not escape, including their shoes. By Saturday morning, five have been taken to a hospital, possibly with COVID-19 complications, and five more tested positive for the virus but showing mild to no symptoms.

Cantu, who is a bilingual officer, noted that most of the immigrants she spoke to were from Guatemala and Honduras.

There were people from Mexico and other countries as well. Luis Sevilla, another migrant interviewed by the Chronicle, is one of them, from the state of Hidalgo.

Sevilla said all the men were ordered to get naked as soon as they entered the house in the 12200 block of Chessington Drive, allowed to keep only their underwear. They didnt allow us to keep our phones or anything at all, he said. My family hasnt heard from me in many days. They probably think that I am dead.

Women were allowed to keep part of their clothing. But they were forced to take showers in bathrooms filled with men, as every space was occupied. Some of the immigrants would rotate sitting, while others had to stand.

Lines to take a shower were long, said Mendoza. We were so ashamed to be there when a woman was showering that we would look the other way, turn around, he said. We tried to give them some privacy, but imagine, it was impossible.

Food was served usually once a day. It was always a little bit of rice, beans and tortilla, Sevilla said. If we asked a bit more, they told us to not complain. They said it was enough to kill the hunger. They said they were not there to feed us.

Several immigrants said they would only see one or two people in charge of the house, but they didnt know if there were more. Their rooms were locked from the outside so they wouldnt know what was happening outside their spaces. They never heard the names of the people in charge.

The immigrants said that, to keep them quiet and submissive, they were told that they would be fined if they did not obey. Fines were $500 or $ 1,000, depending on the infraction, such as not keeping quiet after being reprimanded. And that would be more money their loved ones would have to pay.

Also, they increased the amounts their U.S. contacts had to pay from what was originally agreed.

He said he didnt care what we were told before, said one of the immigrants. That we were here and here we do what he said if we wanted to get out.

Those coming from Mexico typically paid $2,700 to smugglers in McAllen for el brinco, as they call the fee just for crossing the river.

In Houston, they were supposed to pay $2,300 to complete the total agreed price of $5,000. Instead, they were told that they owed now $5,000 on top of what they paid.

The same happened with immigrants coming from Central America. Some of them said their prices were arbitrarily increased by $2,000 on average on top of more than $10,000 they had already paid.

Houston was supposed to be their final destination with the smugglers. Their families or relatives in the U.S. who lived in other cities were responsible for picking them up or arranging the final leg of their trip.

We dont know whats going to happen to us now, said one of the immigrants now in the custody of authorities. Please, I beg you, help me find a job. I just want to help my family. I give my life for them. I can work in construction, in the fields, as a bricklayers assistant, in anything.

Others cried thinking about their families left behind and the enormous debts they will have to pay.

We feel so unlucky, so exhausted, so disappointed, said Mendoza, who left his wife and two small children back in Mexico. We were so close to reaching our destination and then, work as hard as we could. Thats it. ... We were almost there, he said, covering his eyes.

olivia.tallet@chron.com

Twitter.com/oliviaptallet
Authorities are searching for a U.S. Air Force member who went missing off Surfside Beach on Sunday.

Witnesses told the U.S. Coast Guard Elijah Posada, 22, was caught in a riptide while he was swimming about 100 feet from the shore near Freeport.
The Houston Police Department is searching for the suspect in the killing of a transgender woman in Houston two weeks ago.

Newly released surveillance footage shows the suspect in the fatal shooting of Iris Santos, 22, running away from the scene to a nearby apartment complex.
Five people have been taken into custody and charged with federal crimes in connection with a stash house in southwest Houston where more than 90 migrants were found Friday by the Houston Police Department.

A criminal complaint filed Saturday alleges that all five harbored, concealed and shielded immigrants in the country illegally for the purpose of commercial advantage or private financial gain.

Acting U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery, from the Southern District of Texas, said all of the people charged are in the country illegally.

They are Marina Garcia-Diaz, 22, El Salvador; Henry Licona-Larios, 31, Copan, Honduras; Kevin Licona-Lopez, 25, Santa Barbara, Honduras; Marco Baca-Perez 30, Michoacan, Mexico; and Marcelo Garcia-Palacios, 21, Oaxaca, Mexico. They had an initial appearance in federal court before U.S. Magistrate Judge Christina Bryan, who appointed public counsel for all of them and called for a preliminary hearing Wednesday.

On HoustonChronicle.com: More than 90 migrants found in Houston stash house

The investigation began after authorities said they received a call from a woman reporting her brother had been kidnapped.

According to the complaint in the case, HPD received a call Friday about a kidnapping case and met the same day with the caller at a gas station at 3003 Ella Blvd. North of Houston.

The caller reported that she paid $11,000 in February to smugglers to bring her brother from Honduras to the United States. And she told officers that she was instructed by the smugglers, a man and a woman, to drive from Dallas where she resides to Houston. They instructed her to bring an additional $6,300 to a Walgreens in Houston for her brother to be released, according to the court document.

While driving to Houston, she received a call from a woman who put her brother on the phone to speak briefly. The woman recorded the call, in which her brother repeatedly asked her, Please help me, the complaint says.

And she received another call while en route from a male demanding that she must pay the full amount of money they instructed.

The man told her that, otherwise, her brother would be killed. That is when the woman decided to report it to the police, out of fear for the life of her brother, the document says.

She turned over the call recording and cellphone numbers related to the conversations to investigators.

The police obtained an emergency geolocation order and found the location of the smugglers by pinging the cellphone calls they made to the woman who called the police.

Officers found 97 migrants at the house on Chessington Drive in southwest Houston. They were packed in rooms, some with health conditions, dehydrated and almost naked. They were forced to give the smugglers all their possessions and keep only their underwear.

This is so difficult for me, said the migrant brother, whom the Chronicle is not identifying for safety concerns. I have always wanted to help my family and my mother because she lives in a little house that is falling apart. We are very poor, the migrant said. He came from a small mountainous villa in Honduras near the Nicaragua border.

He said he initiated the trip to the U.S. with coyotes on March 25 and was smuggled into the house in Houston the weekend before the police operation took place Friday. He said that during the period he was in the stash house, he saw more migrants brought every day as well as some leaving.

Upon their arrival, he said, smugglers seized their phones and asked for the numbers of their families or relatives in the United States. His relation in the country was his sister-in-law, the woman who called the police.

Conditions in the stash house: No food for days, took turns sitting: Inside a Houston stash house

I am so worried about my family, he said. And God say you should pay all your debts. I have to obey God, I have to pay, but all I ask is a chance to work here in the United States.

The charging documents allege the rooms in the house had deadbolts on the doors facing the outside, which prevented escape. The charges also allege at least one person was told if the money was not paid, he would be put in four pieces of wood.

Authorities said several of the captives identified Garcia-Diaz, Licona-Larios, Licona-Lopez, Baca-Perez and Garcia-Palacios as those conducting the smuggling operation.

If convicted, each faces up to 10 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.

olivia.tallet@chron.com

Twitter: @oliviaptallet
When it comes to progress, the great quandary is usually whether to measure it by the miles already traveled or the inches yet to go.

While we celebrate the police reforms announced last week by Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner as a milestone in a marathon journey, the fact is that the national reckoning brought about by George Floyds murder has moved the finish line toward greater expectations.

Houston has indeed come many miles since 1977, when six police officers infamously arrested Vietnam War veteran Joe Campos Torres for disorderly conduct and proceeded to beat him to a pulp before forcing him into Buffalo Bayou, where his body was found three days later. An all-white jury initially convicted two officers on a misdemeanor and sentenced them to probation and a $1 fine.

Weve come far since 2013, when a Chronicle investigation revealed Houston police officers had been cleared by Harris County grand juries 288 consecutive times in shootings involving civilians, more than a quarter of them unarmed.

We can even measure progress since 2019, when officers killed an innocent couple and their dog in a botched drug raid on their Harding Street home enabled by a no-knock warrant that also left four officers injured and one paralyzed. Under Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg, a dozen officers have been indicted, two for murder, in the shooting and related corruption stemming from an overtime scheme.

Turners long-awaited announcement Thursday built on smaller achievements to push Houston even further toward our ultimate goal: a city where police officers protect and serve rather than prey, where they build trust with communities rather than fear, where bad apples are held accountable rather than untouchable.

Among the most significant reforms, all of which this editorial board has called for: officially banning no-knock warrants for nonviolent offenses, setting a 30-day deadline for releasing body cam footage when officers injure or kill civilians and empowering a toothless police oversight board with competent leadership, broader authority and a full-time investigative staff.

The oversight board, rather than just reviewing investigations conducted by HPD internal affairs, will finally be able to initiate its own probes, similar to the power of a grand jury in Texas. But unlike grand juries, the group will not have subpoena power - a significant obstacle that we urge Turner to address as well.

Another change with potentially out-sized significance is Turners streamlining of a byzantine police complaint system. Though many complaints still require sworn affidavits that must be notarized, Houston is establishing a system where residents can start the process online or even submit concerns through trusted groups such as the ACLU or LULAC.

Notably, the decision to allow anonymous complaints may not only persuade residents to come forward but also fellow officers who want to report bad behavior from colleagues but fear retribution and being ostracized by their brethren in blue.

The fact that Turner announced the reforms at a press conference attended by newly promoted Police Chief Troy Finner, the head of the police union, and passionate reform advocates alike, shows the mayors commitment to building consensus around implementing more than half of the recommendations of his police reform task force. Turner had appointed the group after Floyd was murdered by a Minneapolis police officer nearly a year ago.

But Kumbaya consensus shouldnt keep the city from embracing other difficult reforms  even if theyre unpopular with police union representatives and others at the table. Steps such as strengthening disciplinary rules and police protocols after shootings to ensure fair investigations that arent biased toward officers are absolutely vital. Turner should pursue such changes in his coming negotiations over the unions expired contract.

We welcome Turners nod to transparency in providing online dashboards where the public can monitor police interactions including use of force and other areas such as diversity and disciplinary actions at the department. We urge Turner to make it more than a symbolic gesture by ensuring that such information is available in a format thats user-friendly and comprehensive enough to provide an accurate picture of problems and progress.

Last but certainly not least, we are buoyed by Turners sensible foil to poorly phrased cries of defund the police. What many in that movement actually sought is what Turner is attempting to deliver: a smarter allocation of resources to reduce the overuse of police and prevent tragic encounters with mentally ill residents and others that could have been safely resolved without armed intervention.

Turner plans to use $25 million in federal pandemic relief funds  thank you, Biden administration  to expand programs to either divert 911 calls to a mental health professional, avoiding police involvement altogether, or summon a response that pairs a mental health counselor with a police officer. This will go a long way in avoiding deadly encounters such as the shooting last April of 27-year-old Nicolas Chavez, who was suffering a mental health crisis during a prolonged encounter with police when they eventually opened fire on him after he reached for a Taser they didnt know was empty.

Chavez, a father of three, might still be alive today if a mental health professional trained to de-escalate the situation had navigated the response rather than an apparently well-meaning group of officers who nevertheless surrounded the agitated man with guns drawn while their lights flashed and sirens blared.

Reformers cheered Turners announcement, with Council Member Leticia Plummer likening the approval of long-sought reforms to Christmas.

All the important items are touched upon, she said in Fridays Chronicle. I feel safer with my (sons) driving around the city now.

Others werent satisfied, with Brennan Griffin at the social justice nonprofit Texas Appleseed declaring the changes pretty weak sauce.

Its progress, and Ill take it, he tweeted. But theres still a lot to do if Houston wants some real change.

Both are true - progress was made and more progress is needed. Houston has come miles on its journey toward a police force that is consistently skilled, formidable and humane. We still have a few miles to go but Houstonians should take heart that our mayor is leading the way.
With vital U.S. Census Bureau data delayed until September at the earliest, the once-in-a decade redrawing of Texas political maps is already off to a rocky start  all while Texans have been increasingly vocal in demands for increased public access to mapmaking, a process thats historically been closed to the public.

Since January, Texans have signed up in droves to testify virtually in regional hearings held by the Senates Special Committee on Redistricting. A single hearing in March had over a hundred witnesses, ranging from high school students to retirees and spanning every major demographic group in the state.

I want to see what maps you draw before you vote, since they so seriously affect how well Im represented, said Karen Collins, an Austin resident, during a regional Senate hearing on March 13. Show me your maps.

The stakes are high for Republicans who will lead the process, with Democrats more competitive in Texas than theyve been in a generation. GOP victories in 2020 elections give that party more say in drafting two new congressional districts added to Texas because of rapid growth since the last census.

But Texas lawmakers, found by federal judges to have purposely discriminated against Black and Latino Texans a decade ago, wont have as much oversight this time. A 2013 U.S. Supreme Court ruling means the new maps will be the first in four decades that will not be subject to federal preclearance rules meant to safeguard against discrimination.

BACKGROUND: Judge rules against federal oversight of 2021 Texas election maps

Throughout regional hearings, chaired by Republican State Senator Joan Huffman, Republicans have kept mostly quiet as theyve listened to citizens and advocates call for transparency, including the right to comment on maps while theyre still being drawn.

Im committed to a fair, transparent and legal process ... We have a great deal of work ahead, said Huffman, who is from Houston, at the first regional hearing in January. Huffmans office did not respond to recent requests for comment; nor did any other Republican member of the Senate Redistricting Committee.

As the House Redistricting Committee now takes up its own set of hearings in Texas, Democrats in Washington are pushing legislation that aims, in part, to put redistricting in the hands of independent commissions. The omnibus voting rights and election reform bill H.R. 1, or the For the People Act, has been hailed by civil rights activists as a major step towards ending partisan gerrymandering  the strategic redrawing of the maps based on voting data to ensure victories for one party.

Though the legislation faces heavy opposition in the U.S. Senate, if it passed, it would have major consequences for Texas redistricting process, which is currently overseen by the Republican-dominated Legislature.

Texas Republicans call it an illegal power grab by Democrats in Washington. Attorney General Ken Paxton joined 19 other Republican attorneys general in a letter rebuking H.R. 1. They enumerated their concerns with the bill, including fears that comprehensive reform would commandeer state resources, confuse and muddle elections procedures, and erode faith in our elections and systems of governance.

State Sen. Carol Alvarado, a Democrat from Houston and a member of the Senate Redistricting Committee, said while she supports the federal legislation, she doubts it will make much of a difference in Texas.

I dont see that happening here, Alvarado said of the push for independent commissions. That would have already had to have been done. I dont see much of an appetite for it in the Legislature.

And having sat through redistricting 10 years ago, she said calls for transparency are common during initial hearings.

But things are different today than they were 10 years ago, Alvarado said. People have more access to social media. Theres more information out there. So more people are in tune with whats going on, and how it impacts the state.

Special session, less scrutiny

Delays Delays in Census Bureau data could also have major consequences for public access to redistricting decisions. In February, the Brennan Center for Justice at New York University warned that Texas maps, which will be drawn in the fall during a special session, will have even fewer procedural protections and less oversight this time.

Outside of the regional hearings, legislators have been privately discussing the needs of their own districts and ensuring population numbers are correct. Members and their staffers also get internal training on sophisticated software that holds demographic and geographic data, said State Rep. Rafael Anchia, a Democrat from Grand Prairie.

Anchia, who is the Chairman of the Mexican American Legislative Caucus and a member of the House Redistricting Committee, has for years unsuccessfully filed bills to create an independent commission that would oversee Texas mapmaking, along with other efforts to boost transparency.

The need for redistricting that is not politically motivated is clear, Anchia said, pointing to his own Texas House District 103. That district had been drawn to pack in Hispanic voters with the intent of electing Republicans in nearby House District 105, he said.

Voters are rightly skeptical of this process, Anchia said. In addition to this lack of transparency, it creates a cynicism of government because people feel like its rigged going in.

Calls for transparency include a push for consistent public hearings on maps even after Census Bureau data comes in.

Anthony Gutierrez, the executive director of the nonpartisan advocacy group Common Cause Texas, said interested citizens need more time to analyze maps and changes to those maps as they make their way through the Legislature.

The lack of opportunity for public review has presented the possibility that some legislator came up with some devious plan behind closed doors and can introduce it and get it through at the last minute, Gutierrez said. And thats not how thats supposed to work.

What goes into those maps is also under scrutiny. Both Democratic and Republican parties have voter files of partisan data, including datasets like voting history and everything on a basic voter registration form, Gutierrez said.

Where it gets complex, he said, is every other piece of information used to create maps. Legislative staffers and consultants most likely use economic and basic demographic information from American Community Surveys and the U.S. Census Bureau. They also likely source consumer data from corporate entities, social media data and even magazine subscriptions, Gutierrez said.

This is the kind of thing where we want to know  What pieces of data did you put into generating this map? Gutierrez said.

We dont trust the process

Sponsored by U.S. Rep. John Sarbanes, a Democrat from Maryland, H.R.1 would require all states to turn over mapmaking authority to an independent citizen-led commission, which would stipulate that members be selected from both major political parties and unaffiliated with any public office.

It details a host of other requirements intended to prevent backroom mapmaking: for example, public hearings would have to be held and public comments taken into consideration before approving any states final maps. It would also require bipartisan support for the final maps.

Yet some of the measures detailed in H.R. 1 already exist in Texas at the local level. For example, the city of Austin taps 14 members from a pool of qualified citizens to serve on the commission, which is designed to be demographically representative of the entire city. Everyone on the commission is independent of the city council and the mayor.

In other parts of the state, local officials are trying to replicate Austins process. David Stout, a Democrat and county commissioner for El Paso County, has pushed a local bill that would turn mapmaking responsibility over to an independent commission as well.

During Senate committee hearings at the start of the session, testimony has been by turns frustrated and pleading, with the vast majority of witnesses asking legislators to put integrity before politics.

Marla Lopez, a coordinator at the civic engagement organization Mi Familia Vota, signed up to testify at a January Senate hearing. For the average person, the legislative jargon that accompanies redistricting is too cryptic to understand, Lopez said. But she said the one thing shes heard from the dozens of people shes spoken to during community organization work is that they want to know whats going on behind the scenes.

One of the points that I really wanted to make to them was that the community does not trust the Legislature, Lopez said. We dont trust our elected officials, and we dont trust the process.

Its like a secret ritual we dont know about that affects every part of our lives.

raga.justin@chron.com
Students at a New Jersey high school logged into their remote landscape and design class Wednesday morning expecting their teacher to lead a discussion about climate change. Instead, the teacher went on an expletive-filled, racist rant against Black Lives Matter and George Floyd, the man murdered by a Minneapolis police officer.

Hes not a hero; hes like a criminal, yelled the teacher, Howard Zlotkin, who is white, to a class of about 15 students over a Google Meet call, according to a video shared with The New York Times. He chastised students for, as he described it, making criminals into heroes because theyre Black or because they got a bad story.

One of the students filmed the rant with her phone and immediately contacted school officials. When they did not respond, she contacted a local news station, NBC New York, which reported on the story.

IN HOUSTON: Stratford High School teacher put on leave for racist language in classroom

Now an investigation is underway, and Zlotkin, a science teacher at William L. Dickinson High School in Jersey City, has been suspended with pay, said Mussab Ali, president of the Jersey City Board of Education. Zlotkin was also suspended with pay from his position as an adjunct professor at Hudson County Community College, a spokesperson confirmed.

The actions that this teacher took are not representative of a district in the most diverse city in the country, Ali said.

Zlotkin said that he could not comment in detail because of the investigation but that he would love one day to give my side of the story.

He described the footage as a very well-edited sound bite, even though nearly 15 minutes worth of video shared with the Times showed him repeatedly insulting and cursing at students.

ESSAY: Mixing sports and politics is good for civil rights - and business. Just ask Houston.

Since schools began holding classes online, there have been multiple cases nationwide of teachers making racist and offensive remarks. In some cases, teachers had been caught making racist statements when they believed they were on mute. In Zlotkins case, he knew he was being heard.

Timmia Williams, a 17-year-old senior who provided videos from two days of class to the Times, said an assignment on climate change devolved into profane rants about race and personal attacks toward students, including her.

On Wednesday morning, the students submitted short research papers, Williams said. After she turned hers in, the teacher asked her about how humans are involved in climate change. Eventually, he brought up his disagreement with Black Lives Matter, she said.

As four students, including Williams, who is Black, challenged his position on the issue, he grew more irate. He cursed at one of them who told him he had white privilege. He then gave the four students, all girls, an assignment to write an essay on why Black lives should matter, Williams said. No other students were told to do the assignment.

The student population at Dickinson High School is 47% Hispanic and 15% Black, according to U.S. News and World Report; 85% of students are minorities.

Williams told her mother about what happened. She said she was too shaken to celebrate getting accepted into college that day.

This is the first time I ever felt somebody telling me that my opinion doesnt matter because Im young and because Im Black and stuff, Williams said. It just threw me off. I just started crying.

The next day in class, after she had refused to do the assignment, Zlotkin appeared upset.

Why? You cant make a case for yourself? he told Williams, according to a video of the interaction. No, you cant, Timmia, thats why.

When Williams started to defend herself, Zlotkin cursed at her and later told her to talk to the hand. He chastised another student who refused to do the essay and kicked a third off the remote class meeting after he defended his classmates, she said.

Williams said she and her parents contacted the school and the Board of Education about what happened after Wednesdays class but received no response. She felt like she was not being heard and wanted to stand up for herself and her classmates, she said. That is why they turned over video of the classes to the news station.

Her mother, Margie Nieves, said she has not received any communication or apology from the school.

I still feel some type of way because they didnt solve it right then and there, she said. They waited.

This article originally appeared in The New York Times.
Houston, MO (65483)

Today

Showers this morning then scattered thunderstorms developing during the afternoon hours. High 83F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%..

Tonight

Some clouds. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 68F. Winds light and variable.
A student in Rebecca Harriss pre-kindergarten class sits in the waiting chair in the hallway after returning from gym on Thursday, Jan. 14. Students entering the classroom at the beginning of the day or when returning from gym or a visit to the bathroom enter one at a time and wash their hands before going to their desks. The waiting chair is the penultimate waiting spot in the hallway.
Chicago, IL (60637)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun. High 76F. Winds ENE at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy this evening with more clouds for overnight. Low 61F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph.
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Magnolia, AR (71754)

Today

Partly to mostly cloudy with a chance of thunderstorms. High 89F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Isolated thunderstorms during the evening. Mostly cloudy skies after midnight. Low 73F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 30%.
Honoring those who died while serving in the U.S. military is what Memorial Day is
Williamstown DIRE Committee: 'Detox' Good for the Town

WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass.  As it nears the end of its inaugural year and faces the first departure of a founding member, the town's diversity committee Monday reflected on the importance of the discussions it has had and the perspectives it has centered in the town's conversation.

"One of the things I hope this year has started to plant the seeds of is whatever our backgrounds, whatever our races, whatever our identities, these are all issues that aren't about non-Black people helping Black people," Aruna D'Souza said. "They aren't about non-POC helping [people of color]. They're really about everyone coming together to build the community that they want themselves and their kids to grow up in.

"It's in everyone's self interest, and everyone should be working in their self interest in that way."

Not for the first time, members of the Diversity, Inclusion and Racial Equity Committee acknowledged that while DEI work may benefit everyone, it is going to make some members of the community uncomfortable.

"I would like to see some type of education around centering marginalized voices," Bilal Ansari said when the panel talked about its goals for the year ahead. "If it feels uncomfortable, know that that is just a symptom of white supremacy that you have benefited from in your life, and you're going through withdrawal. Go through your withdrawal, but don't try to take the centering of marginalized voices away. It's detox for you.

"It's a difficult journey. It's difficult to do. But it is the necessary. I understand it's not easy, but detox is good."

D'Souza, who said she will be leaving the committee at the end of June because of changes in her professional life, highlighted how difficult that journey can be.

"Being, in a sense, the public face of conversations people would rather not have, it is hard when some of your neighbors are standoffish because you're saying things they disagree with or tradespeople won't call you back because they know you're talking about stuff they don't approve of," D'Souza said. "It actually changes life in the town."

That said, D'Souza still encouraged people committed to the work of the DIRE Committee to seek positions on the panel if and when they become available.

"But come in knowing, which, as a Black person in 2021 America you already know, it really is work," D'Souza said. "And it's a kind of work that's not always visible. It's worth it. Obviously, everyone is here because they see the potential joy that can come from such work and the potential for this town that can come from such work.

"It's worth it. But it's just not easy having conversations people would rather not have and people don't see the urgency of having because they're not, in a daily way, aware of how it affects their daily lives, too."

D'Souza's upcoming departure raises questions that the DIRE Committee and the Select Board, which created the advisory panel, need to address. The Select Board created the committee last summer, appointing its nine members and giving them a mission "to address [inclusion, diversity and equity] through the development of forums for open and safe discussion of these issues, and for the development of actionable recommendations to improve the attainment of these goals in Williamstown for all residents."

Beyond that, the Select Board intentionally left a lot of the mechanics of the newly created committee  including its name  up to the committee itself.

There was talk among the Select Board of staggering terms for the membership of what became the DIRE Committee (one-year seats, two-year seats, three-year seats that would eventually all become three-year appointments, for example) in order to create continuity. Ultimately, all nine members were appointed for one year with an understanding that individuals could decide at that point whether to continue on the advisory board.

On Monday, D'Souza left the colleagues who will be remaining on DIRE some suggestions for a Year 2 to-do list.

First on her "wish list" was a meeting devoted to the Not in Our County Plege to which town meeting committed in August.

"That might include inviting someone from a town who has implemented that pledge to talk about what works and what's been effective," D'Souza said.

D'Souza also said the DIRE Committee should engage the Williamstown Housing Authority to talk about affordable housing and income inequality, and with the Mount Greylock Regional School Committee on the issue of policing in schools.

"We started a discussion about the police presence in schools but, because the superintendent was not in place yet and all sorts of other things, it was overtaken by events, and we never followed up on that," D'Souza said. "I think having a structured discussion with the superintendent and members of the School Committee, the public, would be a useful thing to do."

Andrew Art suggested that the committee's future meetings should include more conversations with representatives from the Stockbridge-Munsee Band of Mohican Indians.

"They're doing a lot of educating," Art said. "I feel like we should be doing more to also center the work that they're doing locally."

In other business on Monday, the DIRE Committee heard a report from D'Souza about the progress of the community advisory panel that will be recommending an interim police chief to interim Town Manager Charlie Blanchard.

D'Souza said the panel had interviewed four candidates and would be interviewing a fifth this week.

"I've been happily surprised at the quality of some of the candidates," D'Souza said. "A lot of that comes out of people in the town putting out feelers and doing research and soliciting people to apply for the position, which is great. One of the things that's been gratifying this past year is seeing how active people have become in these processes, directly and indirectly."

The committee Monday was to have received an update from Jennifer James, the social worker hired by the town to do a community assessment, but she was not able to attend the meeting, Chair Mohammed Memfis informed the committee.

"The main thing now is to get the website for this [study] up and running," Memfis said in passing along what he heard from James. "The plan is for essentially every single person in Williamstown or every single mailbox to get a piece of documentation about what the research is and inviting them to participate in the research.

"The first piece of this is the communications infrastructure so when they are in front of public forums, people will have information about what's being done and have the opportunity to participate in those types of forums."
The torrential water from storms in 2018 collapsed the culvert at Davis and Lime Street.

Adams Con Comm OKs Culvert, Continues Cumberland Farms

ADAMS, Mass.  The Conservation Commission agreed to continue approval last week for culvert repairs on Lime Street.

The town had filed a continuance notice of intent requesting information on whether the demolition and removal of the damaged culvert pipe near the intersection of Davis Street and Lime Street is subject to the Wetlands Protection Act.

This project dates back to storms that occurred in September 2018, causing an estimated $1 million in damage , as well as Tropical Storm Irene in 2011. Commissioner David Lipinski pushed for approval, saying, "they've been waiting for three years down there" to start the project.

Commissioner Thomas Robinson produced a letter from the Berkshire Environmental Action Team (BEAT) expressing concern about the project. Ultimately, however, Robinson and the other commission members rejected the letter because representatives did not attend the publicly available meeting.

The commission approved the request.

The commission then discussed the planned Cumberland Farms project. Located at 5 Elm St. and 89 & 95 Commercial St., the proposed convenience store and gas station poses a potential hazard if there are oil or gas spills.

Robinson, noted that the proposed drainage system for the project leads to the Hoosic River.

"I don't think it makes sense to send that water directly into the river," Robinson said. A fuel spill "might never happen, but if it does, we have real, real problems."

Lipinski pushed back on this hesitance, questioning the likelihood of a gas spillage ever occurring. He also said, "I'll bet you that every gas station on the planet has the same situation if there's a spill."

He expressed confidence in Cumberland Farms' ability to manage such a spill if it ever were to occur.

The commissioners ended up tabling the issue. They will address it again at their next meeting in two weeks.

The commission in March had heard a presentation on the convenience store's plans to for landscaping, water runoff and remediation of some 3,000 tons of contaminated soil at the site at an estimated cost of $200,000. Hill Engineering has been contracted by the town to do a peer review to determine the plans comply with the Wetlands Protection Act and state's stormwater management requirements.

The commission had first heard a request for determination filed by Pan Am Railways, Inc. The railway requested verification of sensitive areas along the wetland boundaries of the Adams branch rail line as they related to the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act.

Pan Am Railways consultant Keith Morris said the request for determination is a routine measure that occurs every five years, in which the railway must renew the no-spray zones along the rights of ways.

Morris, who has been consulting for the railway for 20 to 25 years, was confident that he knows where the sensitive areas were. After a brief discussion, the commission approved the request.

The next meeting of the Conservation Commission will be in two weeks, on May 13.
The collaborative operates vaccination clinics at three locations: Berkshire Community College Field House in Pittsfield; WEB DuBois Elementary School in Great Barrington; and St. Elizabeth of Hungary Parish Center in North Adams.

Berkshire Vaccine Collaborative to Open Walk-In Vaccine Clinics

PITTSFIELD, Mass.  With an increase in supply of COVID-19 vaccine, the Berkshire Vaccine Collaborative has announced that this week it will begin offering walk-in vaccinations at its three large vaccine clinic sites across the county.

"According to the most recent data from the state, more than 50 percent of our residents have received at least one dose of the vaccine, and almost 40 percent are fully vaccinated," said Darlene Rodowicz, executive vice president of Berkshire Health Systems. "We are excited to see this increase in vaccine supply, and we are optimistic that anyone and everyone who wants a vaccine will able to get one."

According to a press release, the flow of vaccine has recently improved, and the Berkshire Vaccine Collaborative expects to have a plentiful supply going forward.

"To increase accessibility and reduce barriers created by the State's online registration system, the collaborative will now offer walk-in appointments at each of the three clinic locations on specific days," said Laura Kittross, manager, Berkshire County Boards of Health Association. "We know that folks have been frustrated, but we encourage everyone to try again."

Gov. Charlie Baker on Monday said about 180,000 people have signed up for vaccination slots this week and more are available.

"This is obviously a welcome change from a few months ago, when demand was exceedingly high and supply was not," he said during his COVID-19 update from Boston. "We hope to make this process more convenient, more accessible, and continue to add to the count of those who are already fully vaccinated here in Massachusetts. We will begin this shift, in part, by providing 22 regional collaboratives with more doses to run their programs, doubling the state vaccine allocation for our 20 most disproportionately impacted communities, and expanding our mobile vaccination clinics."

The state is on track to have 4 million people fully vaccinated by the beginning of June and the governor said four of the seven mass vaccination sites will be phased out by the end of that month.

Focus will now be on reaching communities and individuals who are still at risk or who have difficulty accessing the regional and mass vaccination sites, lining up appointments, or who are still leery about the sites or the vaccine. More than 21,000 doses have been administered through mobile clinics, which will be expanded to reach people at home or through local community centers such as senior centers, houses of worship and YMCAs.

"We can't stress this particular point enough, everyone over the age of 17 can sign up right now on the website to get an appointment at a location that's near them," Baker said. "There's no more waiting or hassle. You don't have to get up in the middle of the night to schedule an appointment, and you can protect yourself, your family, and get back to normal by getting vaccinated. Soon, today, tomorrow, this week."

Walk-in vaccination clinics will be held on:

Great Barrington, WEB DuBois School: Wednesday, May 5, from 4 to 7; 300 Pfizer walk-in appointments

North Adams, St. Elizabeth of Hungary Parish Center: Thursday, May 6, from noon to 5; 300 Pfizer walk-in appointments

Pittsfield, Berkshire Community College Field House: Thursday, May 6, from 4 to 7; 300 Pfizer walk-in appointments

The collaborative continues to conduct registration for the clinics through its website, www.GetVaccinatedBerkshires.org

"Please remember that the Berkshire Vaccine Collaborative clinics are not mass vaccination sites. The state's pre-registration system will not offer you an appointment at any of our local clinics. To get your shot here in the county, please register through www.GetVaccinatedBerkshires.org or stop by on the day of a walk-in clinic," Rodowicz said.

At this time the available vaccines are Pfizer and Moderna, both of which require two injections; for Pfizer it is 21 days after the first, and for Moderna, 28 days after the first. Second dose appointments will be made at the time of the first dose administration. Massachusetts has a 99 percent rate for people getting their second dose.

"I think we feel good about where we are at this moment the fact that 70 percent of people over the age of 18 have gotten one dose and we're well on track to the 4.1 million people by the end of this month, early June," said Health and Human Services Secretary Marylou Sudders on Monday. "I think this next iteration and the reason we keep evolving the vaccine program is in response to how do we continue to reach the 30 percent of the folks who have not gotten vaccinated."

The Berkshire Vaccine Collaborative is made up of Berkshire Health Systems, the Berkshire County Boards of Health Association, Community Health Programs, the City of Pittsfield, Northern Berkshire EMS, and public health nurses in the region.

The collaborative is partnering with local organizations to improve support for transportation to clinics and to help with registration. As new programs become available, the collaborative will make announcements on its website. For more information, visit www.getvaccinatedberkshires.org
Images Presents Annual 'Fresh Fest' on Food, Farming

WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass.  Images Cinema presents Fresh Fest: A Food and Farming Film Festival, Friday, May 7 through Thursday, May 13.

Produced by Images Cinema, in collaboration with Storey Publishing and the Williams College Center for Environmental Studies, this annual film festival explores the ways farming and food culture impacts our lives in rich and varied ways, and makes links to local farmers and food producers.

This year Fresh Fest will happen virtually this year, on Images' Virtual Cinema platform, watch.eventive.org/imagesvirtual . All films are free to view and will be available for the full week with the exception of Gather, which will be available for one show only, TBA.

This year features a world premiere of "Finding Hope in Farmland," a short film by Williamstown-based filmmaking team, director Dave Simonds and producer Sarah Gardner, about a Somali Bantu community starting a farm in upstate New York. The festival also includes "The Long Coast," about Maine's changing fishing industry; "Fruits of Labor," a documentary about a Mexican American high school student who supports her family harvesting and processing strawberries; and "Gather," a film about Native American food traditions.

Fresh Fest is supported in part by the Cultural Council of Northern Berkshire. Fresh Fest is also sponsored by Storey Publishing and the Williams College Center for Environmental Studies.

Films (descriptions from press release):

'The Long Coast'

"A meditative mix of interviews, striking but unobtrusive cinematography, and, yes, Maine's uniquely picturesque, majestic coastal beauty."  Portland Herald

In a series of lyrical portraits, "The Long Coast" illuminates the stories of Maine's fisher people, those whose lives and livelihoods are inextricably connected to the ocean. This atmospheric film shows the beauty, intimacy, and uncertainty that coastal dwellers face in rooting their lives in the ocean, particularly as human actions  from overfishing, to aquaculture, to warming seas  confront Maine and its people with profound change. (81 minutes)

"Fruits of Labor"

"Given the political and social upheaval that Latinos face in this country, it is amazing to see a documentary that humanizes and concretely showcases those who grapple with immigration status, working long hours at a laborious job, and who attempt to juggle their personal and family life."  Black Girl Nerds

A Mexican-American teenager dreams of graduating high school, when increased ICE raids in her community threaten to separate her family and force her to become the breadwinner for her family. She works long days in the strawberry fields and the night shift at a food processing factory. Set in an agricultural town on the central coast of California, "Fruits of Labor" is a coming of age story about an American teenager traversing the seen and unseen forces that keep her family trapped in poverty. A lyrical meditation on adolescence, nature and ancestral forces, the film asks, what does it mean to come into one's power as a working young woman of color in the wealthiest nation in the world?

Most documentary films about farmworkers look at public personas  the political is in the rally, the strike, and the public speech. Fruits of Labor offers a new narrative about women workers that shows the nuances of how the global food system intersects with gender and family life. (78 minutes)

"Finding Hope in Farmland"

World Premiere; by local filmmakers, director Dave Simonds and producer Sarah Gardner

This short documentary is the story of a refugee community seeking to revive their agrarian heritage. The Somali Bantu refugees in Utica New York arrived in the U.S. in the late 1990s. A marginalized agrarian peoples from Southeast Africa, the Bantu had endured centuries of oppression and slavery. In 1991, during the Somali Civil war, about 12,000 Somali Bantu people were displaced to Kenyan refugee camps and in the late 1990s many were identified by the United Nations as an "extremely vulnerable people "who could not return to their home country.

Arriving in the U.S. as refugees, many eventually resettled to the rustbelt cities of upstate New York that were experiencing industrial decline and population loss. As they rebuild their communities in New York State, many dreamt of reviving their agrarian heritage and providing food for their community. "Finding Hope in Farmland" follows their quest for land and their relationship with farming advocates at Cornell Cooperative Extension who helped them realize their dream. (15 minutes)

"Gather"  One Screening Only  TBA

"Gather" is an intimate portrait of the growing movement amongst Native Americans to reclaim their spiritual, political and cultural identities through food sovereignty, while battling the trauma of centuries of genocide.
Brexit: failure to secure UK-Norway fishing deal a disaster for sector

by Lisa O'Carroll

May 03,2021 | Source: The Guardian

The failure of the UK government to seal a fishing quota deal with Norway  despite heralding a historic Brexit agreement with the country last year  is a disaster that will have serious consequences, say fishery leaders. This is actually a loss of real fishing opportunities, said Barrie Deas, the chief executive of the National Federation of Fishermans Organisations, and in that sense weve gone backwards. The North Atlantic is key to UK fishing interests because it provides a large stock of cod and haddock for the nations fish and chip shops.



Andrew Crook, the president of the National Federation of Fish Friers, warned that it could increase the price of fish and chips. Peter Bruce, who skippers the Peter head-registered white-fish trawler Budding Rose, told the Press and Journal that the failure to reach an agreement on the UK and Norways shared fisheries for 2021 was a disaster and would cause major problems. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) insisted it had always been clear that it would agree to deals only if they are balanced and in the interests of the UK fishing industry.



The UK Fisheries chief executive, Jane Sandell, said: George Eustice [the environment secretary] owes our crews and the Humberside region an explanation as to why Defra was unable even to maintain the rights we have had to fish in Norwegian waters for decades, never mind the boasts of a Brexit bonus, which has turned to disaster. She fears that hundreds of jobs in Humberside will be at risk, with her own firm expecting 40% of the business it had in previous years. Last October, the UK signed an agreement with Norway that it hailed as its first post-Brexit deal as an independent sovereign state, but talks on the exact quotas collapsed on Friday.



Both sides had mutually agreed that it was time to put an end to the negotiations, the government said in a statement. Brexit has undoubtedly created a series of challenges for the Norwegian fishing industry. It has proven extremely difficult to get an agreement with the UK on access to [fishing] areas and a quota exchange for 2021, said the Norwegian fisheries minister, Odd Emil Ingebrigtsen. In regard to the possibility of reciprocal access to fishing quotas in our respective territorial waters in stocks that we share, our views were too far apart to reach an agreement. The UK government said it had offered a fair deal but the two sides were too far apart to agree a deal this year. It means that Norwegian fishers will not be able to fish in British waters and and vice versa this year.



In March the EU, Britain and Norway reached a three-way agreement, the first since Brexit, for the overall level of allowable catches in the North Sea. But the three parties still had to reach bilateral agreements on quota exchange and access to each others fishing grounds.

Theme(s): Others, Fishing Craft, Gear and Fishing Methods, Fisheries Development and Aquaculture, Landing Centres, Fisheries Resources, Post Harvest Technology and Trade, Communities and Organisations, Coastal Ecosystems and Threats, Freshwater ecosystems and threats.
Illegal imports sinking local aquaculture in Cambodia

by Hin Pisei

May 03,2021 | Source: The Phnompenh Post

While local aquaculture has started to grow significantly in recent years, the business community is increasingly facing competition from illegal imports, according to the Cambodian Aquaculturist Association (CAA).



The CAA on April 27 expressed concern on social media that the import of fisheries products to compete with local products in an unfair and inequitable way, combined with the dishonest business practices of a handful of people, will harm local aquaculture. CAA president Sok Raden told The Post on April 27 that the illegal importation of large quantities of aquaculture products from neighbouring countries on a daily basis is a constant source of difficulties for local farmers. These difficulties could mar the government's plans to boost production capacity to meet domestic demand and have enough to spare for export, he said.



He added that illegal imports not only generate losses of tax revenue for the state, but also skirt suitable quality-control measures and originate from dubious breeding sources, which could harm consumers' health. "Illegal imports with unclear quality control not only undermine plans towards exporting Cambodian aquaculture products to international markets, but even the breeding operations that serve domestic needs could face bankruptcy," he said.



He encouraged importers to stock up on fish from local farmers and limit imports to products that locals cannot produce. However, he acknowledged that Cambodian aquaculture products could be slightly more expensive than in neighbouring countries due to the Kingdom's well-organised environment, water control and high-quality feed. According to Raden, Cambodia is well-capable of supplying some species of fish, especially pra (Pangasius djambal), po (Pangasius larnaudii), andeng (catfish of the Clarias genus), chdo (giant snakehead or Channa micropeltes) and kranh (climbing perch or Anabas testudineus).



Kandal, Pursat, Kampong Thom, Prey Veng, Siem Reap, Kampong Cham, Tbong Khmum and Takeo provinces now account for the majority of the Kingdom's fish farms, he said. The owner of a fish farm in Kampong Cham province's Batheay district, Phan Phirum, who has eight ponds on an area of 6ha with an average production capacity of 7,000 tonnes per year, said the import of fish from Vietnam that can be produced domestically has had a very negative impact on local fish farmers.



He encouraged importers to wait after farms had all sold their harvest before bringing in fisheries from abroad. "The situation with the Covid-19 outbreak has severely affected fish farmers in Cambodia because it is difficult to sell, due to the large imports from neighbouring countries," he said. He added that the problem is universal across all fish farms and may cause farmers to quit the business. Aquaculture production stood at 400,400 tonnes last year, up 30.25 per cent from the 307,408 tonnes posted in 2019, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries reported in December.

Theme(s): Post Harvest Technology and Trade, Coastal Ecosystems and Threats, Others, Landing Centres, Freshwater ecosystems and threats, Communities and Organisations, Fishing Craft, Gear and Fishing Methods, Fisheries Resources, Fisheries Development and Aquaculture.
How small-scale seafood supply chains adapt to COVID-19 disruptions

by Sahir Advani, Hannah Bassett, Jacqueline Lau and Sharon K Suri

May 03,2021 | Source: PHY

In February 2020, Rio (not his real name), a crab and sea snail processor in Langkat regency on the Indonesian island of Sumatra, found his business drying up. Normally at this time of year his business would have been booming from seafood exports to China and Hong Kong for the Lunar New Year festival. Like many others in small-scale seafood supply chains across the world, Rio was feeling the impacts of COVID-19. In the early months of the pandemic, community lockdowns and public health risks combined with restrictions on worker movement and seafood trade forced small-scale fishing communities in several parts of the world to close down their businesses. They were left in a state of economic and social uncertainty. Some small, local seafood vendors, like Indonesian pedagang along-along who sell fish, vegetables and other perishable foods from motorbikes, adapted. They were able to continue selling seafood despite the pandemic.



How did they cope? What helped or hindered others in small-scale seafood supply chains as they dealt with uncertainties generated by COVID-19? In a recent article, we documented the initial pandemic impacts and responses across seven seafood supply chains in Indonesia, India, Peru and the US. Our findings offer insights into how to increase the adaptability of fishworkers and small-scale seafood supply chains in preparation for future shocks.



Coping amid the pandemic



In some countries, like India and Peru, the important role of fishing and seafood sales in maintaining livelihoods and providing food was overlooked. The sector was not classified as an essential service and was not allowed to continue operating, despite its economic contribution to society. Seafood is the most traded food item in the world. Yet an estimated 81% of the catch from small-scale fisheries is sold for local consumption. The global small-scale seafood sector employs 32 million fishers and 78 million individuals involved in processing and sales. Seafood supply chains are economically important for trade and livelihoods and critical to food systems. International trade supports the livelihoods of many fishworkers, but also exposes them to the risks of global markets.



As COVID-19 began to disrupt international trade, fishworkers involved in seafood exports had few options but to sell locally. Due to differences in preferences, this was not always successful. For example, jumbo flying squid is eaten in Peru, but not at the volumes or in the product forms consumed in the international market. In some cases, high-production areas such as Langkat or coastal regions of Peru ended up with more seafood than local markets could handle. The result was a price crash. Participating in a variety of supply chains, particularly at smaller, more local scales, helped some fishworkers deal with these shocks.



For example, in California, consumption of sea urchin roe, or uni, was usually limited to restaurants. With restaurants closed, some uni fishers and sellers promoted local supply chains by teaching customers how to handle and prepare uni at home. This made direct sales easier. In India's Andaman Islands, grouper fishers switched from multi-hooked longlines to nets. This enabled them to catch different fish and sell these to local markets. Similarly, Peruvian offshore and high seas artisanal fishers switched to nearshore fishing. By doing this, they contributed to local food security while earning revenue from diverse sources. In all seven of the seafood supply chains we examined, some individuals and organizations quickly changed their marketing strategies and adapted to pandemic-related regulations.



Existing networks of fishery organizations and relationships with consumers helped reorient supply chains. For example, Peruvian fishing associations, which are normally socially and politically active, began marketing seafood through local supply chains. In India, the Dakshin Foundation and other non-profits working along the coast harnessed existing networks like the National Fishworkers Forum and partnered with boat associations in several coastal states, including the Andamans, to distribute food aid within fishing communities and help stranded fishworkers return home. With limited ability to meet in person, fishers and seafood traders used familiar apps, like WhatsApp, to communicate with other fishworkers and connect to local buyers. In the Andamans, communities used WhatsApp to co-ordinate aid. In Peru, it was used to set up informal fish distribution networks. This enabled fish sellers to launch new services such as door-to-door delivery. California's Tuna Harbor Dockside Market quickly developed an online platform to sell directly to consumers. At the same time, this increased their social media presence. The shift to online marketplaces enabled some fish sellers to reach a wider audience.



What's next?



COVID-19 has exposed many existing weaknesses in small-scale seafood supply chains. It has also highlighted several successful strategies for adapting to such large-scale shocks. In the cases examined, these actions contributed to livelihoods and seafood distribution being able to continue during this pandemic. The successes and failures of strategies adopted by individuals and organizations within this sector offer clear lessons for policymakers, the public and development agencies.



Policymakers could recognize small-scale fisheries as essential food suppliers, while local markets support small businesses and fishing communities to help supply chains adapt to disruptions. When it comes to technology, NGOs, development agencies and the tech sector could help cultivate social networks and digital technologies for that purpose. These lessons can inform adaptations to climate change and other predicted threats to seafood supply chains in Indonesia and beyond.

Theme(s): Post Harvest Technology and Trade, Landing Centres, Coastal Ecosystems and Threats, Fisheries Development and Aquaculture, Communities and Organisations, Others, Fisheries Resources, Freshwater ecosystems and threats, Fishing Craft, Gear and Fishing Methods.
South Korean fishermen hold boat rallies against Japans nuclear plans

May 03,2021 | Source: FMT

Hundreds of South Korean fishermen across the country held protests on Friday calling on Japan to reverse its decision to release contaminated water from its crippled Fukushima nuclear plant into the sea. About 800 fishermen participated in rallies at ports in nine cities, according to South Koreas National Federation of Fisheries Cooperatives.



At one port, at Gungpyeong on the west coast, fishermen held anti-Japan banners and chanted slogans such as Withdraw Japans decision and Condemn irresponsible nuclear attack. 20 fishing boats with banners denouncing Japans decision sailed near the port. My father bequeathed this sea to me and Im going to pass it on to my son, who is also fishing, said Park Re-seung, chief of Yongdu-ri fishing village, who has worked in the fishing industry for 38 years. Why is Japan doing this? How could they do such a bad thing against the sea? Dont they eat fish?



Japan said this month it will release more than 1 million tonnes of contaminated water into the sea from the plant crippled by an earthquake and tsunami in 2011 after filtering it to remove harmful isotopes. The plan drew immediate opposition from its neighbours South Korea, China and Taiwan. For us, this issue is about making our living, Park added. If the customers continue to see the news of the water release, they wouldnt be even buying fishes that we caught here.

Theme(s): Coastal Ecosystems and Threats, Fishing Craft, Gear and Fishing Methods, Fisheries Resources, Fisheries Development and Aquaculture, Others, Post Harvest Technology and Trade, Landing Centres, Communities and Organisations, Freshwater ecosystems and threats.
Fishermen in Uganda ask govt to declare fishing holiday

May 03,2021 | Source: Monitor

Fishermen operating at various landing sites on Lake Victoria have asked government to impose a six-month fishing holiday to replenish the fish stocks in the lake. Fish stocks have drastically reduced in the past two months, rendering fish dealers unemployed. At some landing sites, which are usually a beehive of activity, there is no business going on. Sector players are blaming the situation on the recent mass death of fish on the lake. Mr Aron Ahikiriza, a fisherman at Bukakkata Landing Site in Masaka District, said when they go to the lake, they return with few or no fish.



The only remedy for the current situation is to spend some period without fishing. We ask government to enforce a six-month fishing holiday if we are to register some positive change, he said during an interview on Sunday. He said poor fishing methods, practised by unscrupulous fishermen could have caused the problem. Some of our colleagues have already crossed to Kenya and Tanzania where fish is available, but this is not sustainable and puts their lives at risk, he said. Mr Godfrey Ssenyonga Kambugu, the chairperson of the Association of Fishers and Lake Users of Uganda, said illegal and over fishing is partly to blame for the current situation. He said this is because Uganda Peoples Defence Forces (UPDF) soldiers, who were patrolling the lakes, withdrew from some of the landing sites. We would not have reached this level if the Fisheries Protection Unit (FPU) operations were still effective. The soldiers were doing some good work, but they withdrew from some areas and this is where illegal fishing is rampant, he said.



FPU suspended its operations in October last year which gave fishermen free rein for several months. Although FPU recently resumed its operations, the soldiers are still very few in some districts. Ms Ivan Ssemuddu, a fisherman at Bugaya Island in Buvuma District, said: It is a good idea [to declare fishing holiday] but it can only work if the government offers free food and other basic items to people living in the fishing communities. This is because there are some small Islands where fishing is the only source of livelihood for all inhabitants. Mr Tom Bukenya, the commissioner of the fisheries regulations quality control assurance at the Ministry of Agriculture, said: If they [fishermen] are honest in what they are saying, let them do it on their own because they are responsible for all the wrong things happening to the lake. If they sustain it for a week, we shall know that they are serious and come in to support them.



Mass death



Between December 2020 and February communities living in and around the shores of Lake Victoria complained of mass deaths of fish, especially Nile Perch, which were being washed ashore. Preliminary investigations carried out by experts in Ministry of Agriculture revealed that the mass deaths were a result of upwelling. Lake upwelling is the movement of poorly oxygenated water from the bottom to the top. The process causes mixing of water resulting in the suffocation of fish due to lack of oxygen.

Theme(s): Post Harvest Technology and Trade, Fisheries Development and Aquaculture, Fisheries Resources, Coastal Ecosystems and Threats, Others, Communities and Organisations, Landing Centres, Fishing Craft, Gear and Fishing Methods, Freshwater ecosystems and threats.
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The United States is denying a report on Iranian state television that Tehran has reached a deal with Washington and Britain to free prisoners with Western ties in exchange for billions of dollars in new economic aid.

"Reports that a prisoner swap deal has been reached are not true," U.S. State Department spokesman Ned Price said Sunday. "As we have said, we always raise the cases of Americans detained or missing in Iran. We will not stop until we are able to reunite them with their families."

White House chief of staff Ron Klain also denied the Iranian report on CBS News's "Face the Nation" show, saying, "There is no agreement to release these four Americans. We're working very hard to get them released."

Iranian state TV quoted a source as saying, "The Americans accepted to pay $7 billion and swap four Iranians who were active in bypassing sanctions for four American spies who have served part of their sentences."

Iran is known to hold four Americans in prison, including Baquer and Siamak Namazi, environmentalist Morad Tahbaz and Iranian-American businessman Emad Shargi. The state TV report did not name the Iranians that Tehran hoped to have repatriated in the swap.
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BOISE  There once was a time when Democrats had power  real power  in Idaho. That time was not so long ago. For years until 1960, Idaho Democrats controlled the Legislature. From 1971 to 1995, Idaho had Democratic governors. The last great year for the Idaho Democratic Party was 1991 when the Senate was split 21-21. The House had 56 Republicans and 28 Democrats. In those days, the two parties were forced to talk and work together on issues.

When we had the tied Senate, almost all legislation was based on compromise. I think it was to the benefit of education and to the benefit of the people. And I think thats the way politics should be. It shouldnt be that just because youre in power, you power through. What you (should) do is try to represent everybody. And that requires compromise on the big issues. It just doesnt happen anymore, said Bruce Newcomb, a Republican who served for eight years as Idaho House speaker.

But the Idaho Democratic Partys newest chairman hopes those days may soon be here again. Fred Cornforth was selected in March by the state central committee for the partys highest position. He was able to convince the committee that he has big plans. And maybe, just maybe, he can make them happen.



Story continues below video

The plan

When pushed for details, Cornforths grand plan doesnt sound overly complicated.

Its not romantic. Its not from a super-secret playboo, he said. Its not a code you read with a magnifying glass from a box of Cracker Jacks. Its not Oh, Tom Cruise just texted me, and weve got the clue now to turn Idaho blue. It really has to do with just sitting down and talking to people. Listening to them and asking questions.

But hes taking the task seriously. Cornforth has dubbed 2021 The Year of 10,000 Conversations, a term hes borrowed from West Virginia Democrats. He wants the Idaho Democratic Party to begin talking to anyone and everyone.

Its about starting at the most base level; getting as close as we can to the voters.  Its a lot of phone calls. Its door knocking. Its Zoom calls. Its lunches, breakfasts, those kinds of things, Cornforth said. Being available to talk is probably the most powerful thing. Im probably going to be doing a lot of listening.

This summer Cornforth will tour the state doing just that: holding events in towns across Idaho to have conversations with voters. Pat Tucker, chairwoman of the Bonneville County Democrats, said that will include a big Idaho Falls event.

Part of the intention of those conversations will be to identify party leaders and potential future candidates.

In those conversations, well be looking for people who are more moderate who can see the issues with great clarity, that dont get caught up in all the rhetoric or words, that are action-oriented. Well be trying to find them, Cornforth said.

The new intensity he hopes to bring will include East Idaho.

We are planning to work very intensely in our neighborhood to get our precinct captains in place, to get those precinct captains responsive to our neighborhoods. We are using efforts to get underrepresented populations registered to vote. Well be doing that more intensely, Tucker said.

Another reason for talking to people is to raise money and identify donors. The Idaho Democrat Party has already raised around 30 percent more donations than it did the previous year. That funding will go to staff and campaigns. The party has long been understaffed with everybody trying to ride nine bicycles, according to Cornforth.

We will have an increased level of support from the Idaho Democratic Party. From that standpoint, it is a shift. Fred is doing a really good job with fundraising so that he can support the various regions in Idaho, Tucker said.

Tucker has been assured shell be seeing an increase in funding from the state party to assist with local efforts, which will include a new field captain for the Idaho Falls area.

The future of the party is brighter than weve seen in several years, Tucker said.  Fred has promised to help us turn the Idaho Legislature blue. We hope to do that at some point. No one knows when we can, but we need to make incremental strides, and we think 2022 is a year where we will begin to see voters changing.

The pendulum

Another reason many Democrats are hopeful for change is the most recent legislative session. Its been a particularly disastrous year; full of in-fighting, COVID-19 outbreaks, debates on unexpected topics like critical race theory and annexing part of Oregon, holding budgets hostage and, most recently, an ethics investigation into the alleged rape of a 19-year-old intern by a Republican representative.

Ive heard it described everywhere as the worst session in history. (Republicans) really did not put a good face forward on why this state should remain in supermajority hands, House Majority leader Rep. Ilana Rubel, D-Boise, said.

Some Republicans too have been left shaking their heads over the happenings in the Capitol Building the past several months.

Pull Quote When you look at whats happening this session, we have a record surplus. We have more than $600 million in surplus. We have another $600 million in the rainy day funds. Were receiving billions in federal funds. And we have a Legislature that is still leaving us with the worst-funded schools in America, that is refusing to even accept free money from federal dollars for (pre-school). They are cutting funding to universities. They are refusing to even consider property tax bills. On all of the issues that are important to the people of Idaho, its actually the Idaho Democrats who want to deliver on those items.  Rep. Ilana Rubel, D-Boise

I probably shouldnt say anything, but Im more critical of the Republican Party than I am of the Democrat Party at this point, Newcomb said. It seems to me like the Republican Party has moved to far-right extremes. Theyre talking about cancel culture and racial education, and (the Republican) Party, its just gone off to a place it never used to be.

Democratic leaders say the far-right wing of Idahos Republican Party does not represent the majority of Idahoans. They hope there will be a pendulum effect that will convince more moderate Republicans to turn to the Democratic Party. Soon, they hope, the balance will begin to swing their way.

Rubel believes the Idaho Democratic Party correlates more with the policy interests of most Idahoans than their elected Republican legislators do.

When you look at whats happening this session, we have a record surplus. We have more than $600 million in surplus. We have another $600 million in the rainy day funds. Were receiving billions in federal funds. And we have a Legislature that is still leaving us with the worst-funded schools in America, that is refusing to even accept free money from federal dollars for (pre-school). They are cutting funding to universities. They are refusing to even consider property tax bills, Rubel said. On all of the issues that are important to the people of Idaho, its actually the Idaho Democrats who want to deliver on those items.

The party is also wary of that pendulum. All are careful to ensure they dont come across as swinging too far to the left. The Idaho Democratic Party, insists Rubel, should not be confused with the National Democratic Party.

Im really excited about the prospects of the Democratic Party going forward, said. We now have leadership in place that is really interested in getting our message out and conveying that were a fairly centrist bunch who are interested in good governance. We are not interested in huge ideological battles and culture wars.

The platforms

The issues that Idaho Democratic Party leaders continually bring up include more education funding, higher salaries for teachers, property taxes, better roads, the state worker shortage, environmental issues and health care.

Were not interested in screaming all day every day about guns and abortion, Rubel said.

This moderate Democratic approach is especially evident when talking with the new chairman. Cornforths biggest focus is on equal opportunity. Hes got roots in eastern Idaho. His fathers side of the family is four generations deep in Aberdeen and, though his family moved to Boise soon after, he was born in Blackfoot.

Growing up most of his life with a single mother, his family was on food stamps. He never received dental care until the age of 22 when he needed emergency operations done to prevent him from losing most of his teeth. A religious man, Cornforth spent years as a pastor and still considers himself an active member of the Cloverdale Adventist church in Boise. He has since become a successful businessman and real estate developer. He owns Community Development Incorporated, a private nonprofit organization specializing in real estate and community development.

Cornforth said he wants to see Idaho return to a place where everyone can succeed, no matter their background. His great-grandfather was a potato farmer in eastern Idaho. His great-great-grandfather on the other side had the first lumber mill in Idaho near Boises Barber Park. They were members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Days Saints and the Catholic Church.

Both of them were groups that were put down by others, discriminated against. And if you were Irish, that made things even worse. But somehow Idaho provided an environment where everybody was able to be engaged and get what they wanted. I think at the base of what Idaho wants is for individuals to be self-directive. And you want that person to be educated. You want them to be thoughtful, Cornforth said.

He said theres a misunderstanding about what Democrats stand for.

Everybody should have equal access to education. Everybody should have the ability to start their own companies or (get the job) they want. Everybody should have equal access to education. Everybody should be able to buy a home. Everybody should have health care. Everybody should have equal access to our public lands. Thats what Idaho is about, Cornforth said.

And that, according to Cornforth, is also what Democrats are about.

Inside the Capitol

Yet for anyone whos spent time at the Capitol this legislative session, Cornforths sentiments can come across as idealistic; overly optimistic at best.

When Pocatellos Sen. Mark Nye, in his seventh year at the Legislature, decided to move from the House of Representatives to instead run as a senator, it was not easy to find a Democrat willing to run for his place in the House.

I went to 31 people before finding one who would step up, Nye said. Theres reluctance to put yourself out there and be criticized.

Newcomb has seen the same thing among moderate Republicans who hed like to see run.

Politics is so ugly right now. Decent people dont want to subject themselves to the angst that comes with it, Newcomb said.

Sen. David Nelson, D-Moscow, agreed its not easy being a Democrat in a Republican supermajority state. Bills brought forward by those in his party are often denied a hearing. On the floor, hes often left with the unenviable task of debating a bill he knows will come down to a party-line vote. But Nelson thinks its important that there are Democrats to do it anyway.

We feel pretty passionate that the public, and our Republican colleagues have to hear the other side on what were pushing for. We cant just pass something bad and silently oppose it, Nelson said.

Its that difficulty finding leadership that leads Newcomb to be skeptical about the Democratic Partys ability to regain power in any sort of meaningful way, though he doesnt think its impossible.

I think the Democrat Party has lost any ability to affect a balance. Hopefully, there will be some corrections in the future. The central committees of the Republican Party have moved to the far, far right, Newcomb said. But moving the needle from the far right to the center is a difficult process and then moving it to where it goes farther to pick up the Democrats is a bigger challenge in this state. I dont see anyone in leadership who could bring about the change needed.

But, with new leadership and big plans, most within the Idaho Democratic Party are hopeful. Even those like Nye, who have spent years in the Legislature, think theres a chance.

Things go back and forth in our country and in our state, Nye said. ... Its a pendulum. Pendulums always swing.
Name: John Lee

Company: NovaFori

Job title: CIO

Date started current role: February 2021

Location: London

John Lee is an IT Executive, with 30 years experience in Financial services with global exchange groups, and start-up ventures. Lee has served as Group CTO at the London Metal Exchange, CIO at PayPoint PLC, Global Head of PMO at NYSE Group and Director of Systems Development at the London Financial Futures Exchange.

What was your first job? My first full-time job was as a graduate software engineer with Hawker Siddeley Dynamics Engineering (HSDE). HSDE produced full authority digital engine control systems for gas turbines and I joined the software team for the Lycoming T55 engine powering the Chinook helicopter.

Did you always want to work in IT? I was always interested in computing from an early age, when the first home computers became available, but I was also interested in how things worked, perhaps because my father was an engineer. During my teenage years I wanted to become a pilot with the RAF. I started the selection process but discovered during the medical I was colour blind, which I did not know at the time and unfortunately this put an end to this ambition.

What was your education? Do you hold any certifications? What are they? I went to Stamford School in Lincolnshire for my secondary education before gaining a BSc first class honours degree in Engineering with Business Studies at Sheffield Hallam University. I was awarded the Sheffield Metallurgical & Engineering Association sorbet prize in my final year. I have undertaken the Senior Leadership Course and Advanced Management course at Ashridge Business School and the NYSE Executive leadership programme with Insead.

Explain your career path. Did you take any detours? If so, discuss. Following university, I started as software engineer with Hawker Siddeley. I then worked briefly for a medical software house start-up and a small financial services public company.

I joined the London Financial Futures Exchange (Liffe) as an Analyst Programmer in 1988 which is when my career gained focus and started in earnest. Liffe was a new, innovative, go getting derivatives exchange business that was growing rapidly. This was back in the days of open outcry trading with traders wearing bright jackets shouting at each other in trading pits.

At this time there were not nearly as many clearly defined technology roles we have today, it was a very dynamic environment, and you wore many hats. You would be business analyst when speaking with the business, developer and tester while building the solution and support specialist out of hours to resolve production issues, fixing bugs as needed. I quickly progressed to technical lead and established myself on a technical management career path.

I lived through floor to screen trading, the takeover by Euronext and the sale of our trading technology to other exchange groups. I became Director of Systems Development with responsibility for Business Analysis, Development, QA, support and implementation for Euronext markets and delivering to external clients including the Chicago Board of Trade and Tokyo International Financial Futures exchange.

I had a break from my exchange career to become the CIO at PayPoint PLC, a successful retail payments business. This was a completely new experience and challenge for me as my first CIO role. During my time at PayPoint we expanded rapidly and undertook three Acquisitions, two internet payment service providers we combined to form PayPoint.net and a Romain payments business.

After leaving PayPoint, I took a career break to project manage our major house refurbishment re-build which involved living in the garage for a year.

I then returned to the city to work for the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), initially as a consultant before undertaking a new permanent role as Global Head of the Project Management Office, reporting to the group CIO. When the proposed NYSE and Deutsche Borse Group merger fell through, I became the Programme Director for the technology delivery to launch a new Clearing House for the NYSE.LIFFE derivatives market a very ambitious project.

The Intercontinental Exchange bought NYSE and after helping them with the business transition I joined the London Metal Exchange (LME) as CTO which was a combined CTO/CIO role and became Group CTO. This was a significant period of change for the LME business having recently insourced IT and built their own Clearing House. We undertook a major technology change programme moving datacentres, upgrading our trading system, moving premises, delivering new technology for voice trading, significant IT security upgrades, MiFid II and launch of a new precious metals market.

After the LME I decided to change direction and look for interesting new challenges as an independent IT consultant. I worked with Airbus Industries to help them setup a new UK subsidiary Skytra, to establish new indices for the Aviation industry and build an MTF to trade derivatives on these indices. Following this I worked for NovaFori as an IT consultant before joining them permanently as CIO in February this year.

What business or technology initiatives will be most significant in driving IT investments in your organisation in the coming year? NovaFori is at an exciting juncture as we look to build on our past success, as we continue to grow the business. We expect the new normal following the covid19 pandemic will lead to an increase in digitisation as companies adapt their existing digital marketplaces, or indeed look for business extension into this space from a more traditional business model. This is where NovaFori can help with our considerable expertise and success building digital marketplaces for our clients.

We continue to invest in our technology and improving our Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning capabilities. This is important for us to optimise business transactions for our clients, to help them grow their business and ultimately be more successful.

We are also working to develop new products that will allow us to deliver new B2B digital marketplaces for our clients more quickly. To achieve this, we continue to invest in our staff, technology, tools and processes. We partner with our existing clients as we grow the business with new clients.

What are the CEO's top priorities for you in the coming year? How do you plan to support the business with IT? IT is core to our business given we are a technology company, so technology and business are intrinsically linked, work hand in hand and support one another.

There are the usual areas that CEOs like CIOs to focus on, ensuring we operate as efficiently as possible as we grow the business and increase our headcount. We also focus on evolving our technical architecture, processes, and ways of working to underpin our business growth.

Then there are the sexier areas, how we invest in new products and AI technology to deliver increased value for our customers.

Does the conventional CIO role include responsibilities it should not hold? Should the role have additional responsibilities it does not currently include? Personally, I have always worked for companies where technology is fundamental to the business, absolutely at its heart, directly supporting the business revenues. This perhaps brings a different and wider perspective from what might be considered more of a conventional CIO role and these responsibilities.

In the companies I have worked for the CIO reports directly to the CEO and perhaps in other business where IT is more of an internal, support function it may report to the COO. In these organisations technology still has a key part to play to drive innovation and help the business become more agile and innovate but I am imagining it may be more difficult to do this where it is considered more of a cost centre.

It is vitally important that the CIO can contribute to and fully support the business strategy. Identifying how technology can support and help businesses achieve their business goals will always be important and perhaps more so in the future, as businesses look to adapt and exploit new opportunities such as e-commerce which is a key focus for us all at NovaFori.

Are you leading a digital transformation? If so, does it emphasise customer experience and revenue growth or operational efficiency? If both, how do you balance the two? This is really core to what we do for our customers at NovaFori given we provide digital marketplace technology. Our primary focus is to help customers utilise digital business opportunities and support them launching or growing existing marketplaces.

Internally we are organised and operate as a digital company with high levels of collaboration across geographies. We have invested in various workspace and channel-based messaging tools for teams to collaborate and work efficiently together, which is fundamental to how we work as a business.

Describe the maturity of your digital business. For example, do you have KPIs to quantify the value of IT? We have KPIs to measure the quality of our service we deliver to clients for the products and services we provide. We do this from the delivery efficiency of our agile methodology through to the operational service we provide, and both are important for us.

Given we are a relatively small organisation circa 70 staff and technology staff make up the majority of the company the metrics for how we deliver to our clients are our primary focus.

What does good culture fit look like in your organisation? How do you cultivate it? This is a really important area for us given we are a small company, and thus focus a key part of our recruitment process on this.

We are a very client orientated organisation, working ethics are important to us as is adaptability and team working. We support and care about our staff and strive to create an environment where people buy into the goals of the business and are motivated to help us achieve our goals.

We undertake regular customer surveys both formally and informally to seek feedback on our performance. We have eight values areas that we consider very important for us at NovaFori, and these are part of our performance management framework.

What roles or skills are you finding (or anticipate to be) the most difficult to fill? Artificial intelligence and machine learning skills are very important skills sets for us and they are in high demand. So, this is one of the difficult areas for us to fill.

What's the best career advice you ever received? Focus your career on what you really enjoy doing and I think you will have the best chance to succeed. Work hard and play hard and success will come. Its important to have balance in your life outside of work.

Do you have a succession plan? If so, discuss the importance of and challenges with training up high-performing staff. Not yet as I am new to the role, but I agree this is an important area to address for the reasons you raise.

What advice would you give to aspiring IT leaders? Hire the best people you can find, and you can afford to hire.

Ensure you have the right mix of skills in your direct reports. Have people that complement your skills, with strengths in areas where you may be less skilled.

Regularly walk the floor (physically or virtually!) to understand what is happening within your team. This helps to build relationships and trust.

What has been your greatest career achievement? While at Euronext we migrated the Amsterdam derivatives market onto our LIFFE trading system and had to take the capacity of the system from 3mm incoming orders per day to 30mm per day, to support the Amsterdam fully quoted Equity Options market.

Looking back with 20:20 hindsight, what would you have done differently? In my career as a whole, trust my gut instincts, as I have found through experience these are usually right.
Getty/Astrid Riecken/The Washington Post

Ghost guns that were secured by the D.C. Metropolitan Police Department are on display during a press conference held by Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) in Washington, D.C., February 2020.
India reported 368,147 new coronavirus cases and 3,417 deaths Monday  numbers that experts believe are vast undercounts because of a widespread lack of testing and incomplete reporting. The health ministry says it has confirmed 19.9 million COVID-19 cases since the start of the pandemic, behind only the U.S., which has counted more than 32.4 million. It says more than 218,000 people have died.
Many IFJ affiliates took action to mark World Press Freedom Day on 3 May. Here is a non exhaustive list of their initiatives.

Australia, MEAA: World Press Freedom Day 2021: hostility towards journalists is on the rise - Read more

Brazil: FENAJ plants trees to commemorate journalists who died from covid. The union says that defending the universal right to Freedom of the Press is a constant struggle in Brazil - Read more (in Portuguese)

Ecuador: FENAPE calls for the defense of the media from attacks on its independence and pays tribute to journalists who have lost their lives in the course of their work - Read more (in Spanish)

Ethiopia: The IFJ participated in a webinar on how media freedom stands in Ethiopia in 2021. These last two years have shown the precariousness of media freedom globally and in Ethiopia - Read more

France: The National Union of Journalists (SNJ) is organising a rally at 11am at the Ghislaine Dupont - Claude Verlon - Camille Lepage square, in memory of the two RFI reporters murdered in Kidal, Mali, on 2 November 2013, and of Camille Lepage, a photojournalist killed at the young age of 26, on 12 May 2014. The IFJ Secretary will also be present. - Read more (in French)

Gambia: The Gambian Press Union will hold a dialogue on journalists safety ahead of presidential elections - Read more

Indonesia: AJI has organised an extensive list of activities across the country, including webinars, exhibitions, campaigns and dialogues on the press freedom situation in the country - Read more (in Indonesian)

The Netherlands: The NVJ presented the annual Press Freedom Monitor, a research on the press freedom situation in the Netherlands - Read more (in Dutch)

Norway: The Norwegian Journalists' Association and the Norwegian Press Association organised a debate on the conditions for press freedom during the pandemic - Read more (In Norwegian)

Palestine: Palestinian Journalists Syndicate reports 183 crimes against Palestinian journalists - Read more

Peru: ANP - IV Encuentro de periodismo de investigacion Europa - America Latina 2021 - Read more (Spanish)

Somalia, NUSOJ launches the State of Media Freedom Report, listing 2 journalists killed, 33 detained and 133 cases of intimidation against media workers logged in Somalia in 2020 - Read more

Sout-East Asia: The IFJ asia-pacific office has launched its 19th annual South Asia Press Freedom Report and conducted a panel discussion on 3 May around the findings - Read more

Spain: FAPE vindicates the essential value of Press Freedom for the vitality of Democracy - Read more (in Spanish)

Switzerland: Syndicom has issued a statement denouncing attacks on demonstrators, obstruction by the police, discrimination in civil proceedings and obstacles to research due to the law on police measures. The union also points to massive job cuts in editorial offices and uncertain career prospects that undermine press freedom. - Read more (In French)

Turkey, Journalists' Union of Turkey (TGS): May 3, World Press Freedom Day e-conference: Information as a Public Good - Read more

United Kingdom: In a release published on 3 May the NUJ has vowed to renew efforts to defend press freedom, pointing at the deterioration of press freedom around hte world and threats in the UK - Read more

Uruguay: The APU organises the Conference Right to Freedom of Expression in the Inter-American System - Read more (In Spanish)

Your union is not on the list? Contact us!
Imperial Valley News Center

Multi-Day Operation by Human Trafficking Task Force Leads to the Recovery of Three Minors and Multiple Arrests

Los Angeles, California - On behalf of the Los Angeles Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force in the San Gabriel Valley, the assistant director in charge of the FBIs Los Angeles Field Office, Kristi K. Johnson, and Chief Michael Ellis of the Pomona Police Department, announced the results of last weeks multi-day operation, which included the recovery of three children.

During the week of April 19 - 23, members of the Los Angeles Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force in the San Gabriel Valley conducted an operation along the East Holt Avenue corridor in Pomona, a known track, a term commonly used to describe a location for commercial sex trafficking. The Task Force is comprised of members from the Pomona Police Departments SET Team (Sexual Exploitation & Trafficking Team), the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department, and the FBI. The operation focused on the identification, location, and recovery of human trafficking victims with an emphasis on those suspected of having been trafficked.

On Monday April 19, 2021, two females who appeared to be very young were observed as they engaged with vehicles occupied by lone males. Both were contacted by members of the Task Force. One of the females was identified as a 14 year old who had been reported missing; she is six months pregnant. The second female was identified as a 16 year old. A third juvenile female whom investigators determined had been reported missing, is 17 years old. In one case, the victim told investigators she had been working as a prostitute since the age of 12. All three juveniles were reported missing from cities outside of Pomona. All juveniles were turned over to the care of the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services.

The Pomona Police Department Sexual Exploitation & Trafficking Team (SET Team) conducts enforcement and investigates cases of human trafficking and sexual exploitation. SET Team Officers initiated the First Responder Protocol (FRP) to activate the multi-agency response team, which ensures that resources and services are provided to victims.

The First Responder Protocol is an agreement between the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), The Department of Probation, and local law enforcement, all of whom work cooperatively to provide a victim-centered approach to juvenile victims of human trafficking. Three DCFS employees and three victim advocates responded during last weeks operation.

Throughout the remainder of the week, enforcement operations were conducted along Holt Avenue. In total, seven females and four males were arrested for commercial sex trafficking-related crimes, in addition to the recovery of the three juveniles. Five of the seven females accepted services from victim advocates.

It is not uncommon for victims who are rescued to return to commercial sex trafficking either voluntarily or by force, fraud, or coercion. This harmful cycle highlights the challenges victims face and those faced by law enforcement when attempting to keep victims from returning to an abusive situation. Victims may not self-identify as being trafficked or may not even realize theyre being trafficked. It is not uncommon to locate victims who were considered vulnerable missing children prior to their recovery.

Since January 1st 2021, the Pomona Police Department SET Team has recovered 11 juvenile victims of human trafficking. The Pomona Police Department and the FBI proactively address human trafficking and also utilize the assistance of other agencies to provide a victim centered approach.

The FBI caseload for both sex and labor trafficking-related crimes has increased significantly in the past several years. As of November 2020, there were more than 1,800 pending trafficking investigations including those involving minors exploited through commercial sex trafficking. Today, the FBI leads 86 Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Forces around the nation and participates in Anti-Trafficking Coordination (ATC) Teams in 12 offices, including in Los Angeles. The ATC Teams are intended to streamline coordination on the front lines of federal human trafficking investigations and prosecutions.

In fiscal year 2020, the FBI initiated 664 human trafficking investigations nationwide, resulting in the arrests of 473 traffickers. The FBI also collects and posts human trafficking statistics through its annual crime report.

In addition to recovering child victims who are missing or engaged in commercial sex trafficking or who are otherwise being exploited, much needed resources are provided to victims to ensure that their short- and long-term needs are met. Resources may include immediate medical requirements; legal services; housing; employment; education; job training; and childcare, among others.

Task Force Investigators believe there may be other unidentified victims related to the Holt Avenue operation and urge anyone with information to contact the Pomona Police Department at (909) 620-2085 or the FBI. In Los Angeles, the FBI can be reached 24 hours a day at 310 477-6565. Information about human trafficking victims can also be reported to the National Human Trafficking Resource Center Hotline at 1-888-373-7888, via text message to 233733, or by visiting visit https://humantraffickinghotline.org/ The NHTRC is a national, confidential, toll-free hotline, with specialists available to answer calls at all times.
Imperial Valley News Center

Individual Arrested and Charged with Operating Notorious Darknet Cryptocurrency "Mixer"

Washington, DC - A dual Russian-Swedish national was arrested Tuesday at Los Angeles International Airport on criminal charges related to his alleged operation of the longest-running bitcoin money laundering service on the darknet.

According to court documents, Roman Sterlingov, 32, operated Bitcoin Fog since 2011. Bitcoin Fog was the longest-running cryptocurrency mixer, gaining notoriety as a go-to money laundering service for criminals seeking to hide their illicit proceeds from law enforcement. Over the course of its decade-long operation, Bitcoin Fog moved over 1.2 million bitcoin  valued at approximately $335 million at the time of the transactions. The bulk of this cryptocurrency came from darknet marketplaces and was tied to illegal narcotics, computer fraud and abuse activities, and identity theft.

Sterlingov is charged by complaint with money laundering, operating an unlicensed money transmitting business, and money transmission without a license in the District of Columbia.

Acting Assistant Attorney General Nicholas L. McQuaid of the Justice Departments Criminal Division; Acting U.S. Attorney Channing D. Phillips of the District of Columbia; Acting Special Agent in Charge Darrell J. Waldon of IRS-Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI); and Assistant Director in Charge Steven M. DAntuono of the FBIs Washington Field Office made the announcement.

The IRS-CI District of Columbia Cyber Crime Unit and the FBI Washington Field Office are investigating the case. Essential support was provided by Excygent; the IRS-CI Los Angeles Field Office, Van Nuys Post of Duty; FBI Los Angeles Field Office; Homeland Security Investigations; Customs and Border Patrol; the U.S. Attorneys Offices for the Central District of California, Northern District of California, and Southern District of New York; and the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network of the U.S. Department of Treasury. The Department of Justices Office of International Affairs provided invaluable assistance, as did Europol; the Swedish Economic Crime Authority, the Swedish Prosecution Authority, and the Swedish Police; and the General Inspectorate of Romanian Police, Directorate for Combatting Organized Crime and the Directorate for Investigating Organized Crime and Terrorism.

Trial Attorney C. Alden Pelker of the Criminal Divisions Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher B. Brown of the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of Columbia are prosecuting the case, with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Chad Byron. Former Assistant U.S. Attorneys Youli Lee and Zia Faruqui made invaluable contributions during their tenures on the case team. The team also appreciates the previous support of Trial Attorney S. Riane Harper of the Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section; Paralegal Specialist Kenny Nguyen; former Paralegal Specialists Toni Anne Donato and Bianca Evans; and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Allen ORourke over the course of this long-running investigation.
Imperial Valley News Center

Former National Guard Member Pleads Guilty to Using the Internet to Commit Sexual Exploitation Offenses While Stationed in Qatar

Sacramento, California - Jaziz Jesahias Cea, 23, formerly of Galt, pleaded guilty Thursday to transportation of child pornography and receipt of child pornography, Acting U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.

According to court documents, Cea used internet communications platforms and social media to commit the offenses. In particular, on May 13, 2018, Cea uploaded to his YouTube channel child pornography videos showing prepubescent girls being abused by adult males. Cea also separately used his Skype account to receive child pornography videos depicting prepubescent minor females being sexually exploited, to share links to such material, and to communicate with others about his interest in sexually exploiting children.

Between September 2017 and July 2018, Cea was a member of the California National Guard serving on active duty with the United States Army in Qatar. He was discharged from the California National Guard on July 23, 2020, under other than honorable conditions.

This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Sacramento County Sheriffs Office, the Sacramento Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, and the Galt Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rosanne Rust and Christina McCall are prosecuting the case.

Cea is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Morrison C. England Jr. on July 22. The two counts to which Cea pleaded guilty carry a mandatory minimum five-year prison sentence, a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, and a fine of up to $250,000 for each count. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory sentencing factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys Offices and the Criminal Divisions Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims.
Rodney Foxworth isn't worried about Silicon Valley, New York City, or other capital-rich business hubs. Those ecosystems have a strong infrastructure in place to quickly rebound after the pandemic, says the CEO of Common Future, an Oakland, California-based advocacy group for community-based economic development across the U.S.

Conditions for less robust--but to this point emerging--business hubs aren't looking too hospitable these days, however. The picture is even more bleak in rural and poor regions of the U.S.

A January 2021 study from Utah State University, Yale University, and New York University on well-being in the rural North American West found that more than 21 percent of the region's full-time workers have either become unemployed or shifted to part-time work during the pandemic. And a December 2020 report from the Brookings Institute, a Washington, D.C.-based think tank, cites a lack of adequate access to capital and broadband connectivity as significant barriers to rural small-business revitalization in the post-Covid world.

Cities and towns can recuperate, though. The key to reviving Main Street small businesses and rebuilding America's smaller startup ecosystems, Foxworth says, lies in just how much money and attention states and local governments are willing to spend. For its part, Common Future acts as part-think tank, part-intermediary between investors and small businesses focused on building community wealth and equity.

Here is Foxworth's vision for how communities can build or rebuild startup infrastructure, further strategic relationships, and enter the recovery on stronger footing.

1. Support the support system.

Startup ecosystems tend to thrive when support networks like accelerators, incubators, and co-working spaces are plentiful. Foxworth says state and local government officials should work to support these organizations, along with helping area businesses. Such investments could be "the best chance that we have" to effectively jumpstart local economies post-Covid, Foxworth says.

Nationwide, many of these organizations are struggling, especially away from such hubs as Silicon Valley. Numerous rural and poor areas lack them altogether. Building or rebuilding that support system could help small-business communities prosper in the years to come.

2. Reallocate local government resources.

Federal pandemic aid efforts like the Paycheck Protection Program delivered for some businesses better than others. Business owners without strong banking relationships or large numbers of employees, for instance, missed out during different stages of the forgivable loan program, which has doled out more than $771 billion to small businesses since last April. Those entrepreneurs could have benefited from a helping hand in navigating the program.

The same is true for regulations more generally, says Foxworth: State and local governments taking on more of a guiding role than usual can be a net positive for Main Street, particularly in spreading the wealth between big business and startups. As they revisit budgets in the wake of the pandemic, he says, they should consider levying higher taxes on large corporations that have grown enormously in the past year, such as Amazon and Alphabet--and put that money toward loans, grants, or other forms of investment in small-business ecosystems.

3. Invest locally.

Investors can also play a role in rebuilding America's startup ecosystem. The country's new rule for enhanced equity crowdfunding, which allows private companies to raise capital in small chunks by selling securities like equity or debt, offers a grand opportunity, says Foxworth.

In March, as part of the 2012 Jobs Act, the Securities and Exchange Commission raised the legal cap for crowdfunding campaigns to $5 million, up from $1.07 million. Some small-business owners and investors, like Backstage Capital founder Arlan Hamilton, have already begun taking advantage.

Foxworth says the new rule could be a game-changer for small-business communities. The difference between $1.07 million and $5 million would be substantial for many smaller companies, especially as many Americans emerge from the pandemic ready to spend. Crowdfunding campaigns could even enlist nearby corporations and angel investors to match donations, as part of an effort to encourage local residents to invest locally. The message to send, Foxworth says, is: "If we don't have these Main Street businesses, these local businesses, how are our communities going to exist?"
It's easy to understand why employers might be anxious to push their workers to get Covid shots now that they're available to all adults in the U.S. A vaccinated workforce makes planning easier, enables a return to in-person work (if you and your employees are up for it), and generally helps push us all toward the golden promise of the end of this horrible pandemic.

So should employers make getting a shot mandatory? While there is still some uncertainty around the issue, many employment law experts claim it is probably legal to require your employees to get vaccinated. That doesn't mean it's a good idea, though.

Writing on The Conversation recently, University of Oregon law professor Elizabeth Tippett argues that other ways than blanket mandates are more likely to nudge your team to get vaccinated without reservations or bitterness (hat tip to Business Insider).

What works better than a vaccine mandate

To kick off the piece, Tippett reminds employers of the incredible sway they already hold over their employees' lives. Just think of a worker who overslept one day racing out of the house without eating breakfast or showering to make it in before 9. Your influence as an employer pushed that employee to face the day with a rumbling stomach and crazy hair, no formal mandate required.

Though she allows that in some settings, like health care and hospitality, mandates may be necessary, in general Tippett urges employers to embrace their influence and use a softer touch to encourage their teams to get their shots. How might that work exactly? Tippett offers a handful of possibilities:

Make it easy to get vaccinated. Some bigger employers are offering vaccinations, but smaller firms can find creative ways to make it painless for their people to get their shots. "Target is offering its workers free Lyft rides to vaccination sites. For workers worried about using scarce vacation or sick time, Trader Joe's, Chobani, and Dollar General are offering time off to get vaccinated," Tippett offers as inspiration.

Educate your team. You've probably provided your staff information on making their workspace more ergonomic or getting the most of your company's health benefits. Why not offer them information on the benefits of getting vaccinated via whatever existing channels you use to communicate with your workforce?

Consider a vaccine reward. Tippett offers a few examples of what these rewards might look like in practice: "Monthly raffle drawings available to the recently vaccinated; tickets to the company's outdoor barbecue for those fully vaccinated by a specified date; or preference in vacation scheduling or shift selection for those who are vaccinated or qualify for an exemption."

Make not getting vaccinated a hassle. Carrot not working? Then try a little stick. This could look like "automated reminders, followed by personalized reminders from human resources, and eventually a phone call," writes Tippett. "At some point, it becomes more of a hassle to avoid the vaccine than to get it."

Try a scare form. As a last resort, Tippett suggests you could try scaring reluctant employees into rolling up their sleeves by asking them to sign a form "acknowledging the health risks of continued exposure -- like the form employers are required to provide health care workers who refuse a hepatitis B vaccine. While such a document should not include an unlawful waiver of workers' compensation claims, it could explicitly warn workers of the health risks they're taking."

Whichever nudge works best for your business, Tippett's overall message is that you as an employer have significant sway over your employees' behavior. Now is not the time to be shy about exercising it.
The BBC has commented on the future of Line of Duty following last nights finale.

Ahead of the season six finales broadcast on Sunday (2 May), the shows creator Jed Mercurio had paid tribute to his cast and crew and thanked the BBC for six incredible seasons.

Viewers were then left wondering if the show would return due to the feeling of finality in the episode, which has been widely panned as disappointing after being watched by a staggering number of people in the UK.

However, the BBC has suggested it is happy for the show to continue should Mercurio want to make more.

In a statement, BBC Chief Content Officer Charlotte Moore said on Monday (3 May): Im looking forward to having a conversation with the team about where we go next and what the future of the series might be.

Moore added: Addictive event television, Line of Duty has kept the nation guessing for the last seven weeks, so it's no surprise that last night's jaw dropping finale set a ratings record.

She hailed Mercurio as a master of his craft, continuing: I would like to congratulate him and the entire cast and crew for delivering such an incredible drama series.

Its unknown whether Vicky McClure and Martin Compston will be returning for more episodes (BBC/World Productions/Steffan Hill)

The episode saw the shows long-running H storyline, in which four corrupt coppers were revealed to be part of an undercover crime syndicate, draw to a close. The enigmatic  and previously unknown  fourth man was finally unveiled.

Find all the talking points from the finale here, as well as all of the shows unanswered questions here.

All six series of Line of Duty are available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
Senior Care: No additional deaths were reported Monday. There was no report Sunday. A total of 13,111 deaths have been in residents and staff of senior care facilities, accounting for 49.9% of the states 26,276 deaths. It is the first time that fewer than half of the states COVID-related deaths have been in senior care facilities since the last week in January.
A Chinese man managed to cross the highly-militarised Taiwan Strait in a rubber dinghy to seek freedom and democracy, according to Taiwans police.

The man, only identified by his surname Zhou, was detained on Saturday in Taiwans Taichung city after locals said he was behaving suspiciously, according to the police, AFP reported.

He said that he traveled from Fujian province, on China's east coast, in a rubber dinghy and wanted to move to Taiwan to seek "freedom and democracy, police said.

Coast Guard officials said Zhou bought the raft, which measured 8.8 feet by 5 feet, on a Chinese e-commerce site, according to The Washington Post. It was fitted with an outboard motor and carried 90 litres of fuel.

Zhou is currently being held at a detention centre in Taichung and undergoing a 14-day quarantine. He could face up to three years in prison, a fine as well as repatriation.

The incident has raised questions over the security of the waterway. Taiwans defence minister Chiu Kuo-cheng said "shortcomings" in how the Taiwan Strait is policed were being investigated.

The Taiwan Strait is one of the most militarised waterways with hundreds of Chinese and Taiwanese ships patrolling it.

Taiwan is self-governing but claimed by Beijing as a breakaway province. The incident comes amid mounting tensions between the two, as China has stepped up military activities near the island in the past year. It has refused to rule out a military invasion to bring the island under its control.

China has also expressed strong opposition to growing ties between the US and Taiwan in recent months. Beijing last week opposed the US embassy in Frances lunch invitation to Taiwans representative, saying the move endorsed secessionist forces in Taiwan.
The decision by Indias prime minister, Narendra Modi, to hold huge political meetings during the run-up to voting in the state of West Bengal, even as the country was being devasted by the coronavirus pandemic, enraged Manjul.

He was left aghast as he watched the situation unfold.

I had to draw what I saw, the 49-year-old freelance editorial cartoonist tells The Independent. [Modi] was holding rallies day in and day out even as pyres burned across the country.
Mila Kunis has reflected on the regrettable investment advice shes given her husband Ashton Kutcher over the years, with the actress revealing shed initially called Uber the worst idea ever.

The actress opened up about the investments shes warned her husband against, only for them to become extremely successful, during an appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert on Thursday.

According to Kunis, the best part about her and her husbands partnership is that he includes her in everything, and often asks her advice about potential companies hes thinking of investing in.

However, the 37-year-old admitted that she doesnt always give the best guidance, telling Colbert: The best part about him is hes really smart about including me in everything and making sure that I am aware of everything thats happening.

Hes also really smart at knowing that sometimes, you shouldnt listen to your wife.

Kunis, who has been married to Kutcher since 2015, then went on to recall one instance that occurred early on when they were dating, when the What Happens in Vegas star approached her about a new car share company.

He was like: Hey, there is this company, it is kind of like a rideshare  kind of like a cab company, but anybody can drive the cab, Kunis recalled, adding: I was like: Thats the worst idea ever.

According to Kunis, her husband, a venture capitalist, was undeterred, with the actress revealing that Kutcher suggested he order her an Uber so she could test it out.

He was like: Let me get you this thing. Its called Uber. Let me just order it for you. You can test this out. And I was like: Youre going to put me in a car with a stranger? What is wrong with you? Like, I was furious at him, she told Colbert.

During the interview, the Black Swan star also recalled another instance shed responded skeptically to a possible business venture, after Kutcher had come to her for her advice on Bitcoin.

Hes like: Hey, babe, Ive got to explain this thing to you. Tell me if Im crazy. And I was like: Cool, what is it, babe? Kunis said. He was like: Theres this thing. Its like mining for money. Its called cryptocurrency. Its called Bitcoin. This was eight plus years ago.

According to Kunis, at the time she had asked her husband whether it wasinsured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp (FDIC), before sharing her concerns that it wasnt safe.

He was like: No. Thats the point. Its not, Kunis recalled. And I was like: Well whos going to make sure its safe? He was like: Thats the point! And I was like: Well, I think this is a horrible idea.

Fortunately, Kunis said Kutcher hadnt listened to her at the time, telling Colbert that her husband had responded: Cool, were investing in it.

The anecdote was met by an impressed Colbert, who responded: Wait, so you guys went into Bitcoin eight years ago? Damn girl, I can do math, to which Kunis replied: Yeah, my husband is really smart.

While reflecting on her husbands impressive eye for investments, the actress, who shares children Wyatt, six, and Dimitri, four, with Kutcher, also revealed that the actor has invested in companies including Airbnb, Spotify and SoundCloud.

Explaining that many of the ideas seem ludicrous to her at the time, she admitted to Colbert: I Airbnb everything, I Uber everywhere, and I use cryptocurrency. So guess what? Ive never been happier to be wrong.
A Black man who was effectively enslaved by his white manager should be paid $546,000 (394,000) for the five years he was forced to work without pay, a court has ruled.

Bobby Paul Edwards coerced John Christopher Smith, who has a learning disability, to work for more than 100 hours a week at the J&J Cafeteria in Conway, South Carolina, between 2009 and 2014.

Edwards was sentenced to 10 years in prison in 2019 after being investigated by the FBI and was ordered to pay Mr Smith a little over $273,000 (197,000) in restitution.

But the Court of Appeals ruled on 21 April that Mr Smith should receive double that amount, because of the delay between completing his work and receiving payment.

Minimum wages and overtime compensation must be paid on a current basis as work is done, such that an employee receives the prescribed compensation without delay, Judge Paul V Niemeyer ruled.

When an employer fails to pay those amounts, the employee suffers losses, which includes the loss of the use of that money during the period of delay.

Judge Niemeyer concluded that Edwards had effectively enslaved Mr Smith for five years, during which time he was verbally and physically abused. Mr Smith was punched, beaten with kitchen pans, whipped with a belt and burnt on his neck with hot metal tongs for a supposed mistake.

Edwards kept Mr Smith isolated from his friends and family in an tiny apartment attached to the restaurant and forced him to work up to 17 hours a day, seven days a week. Mr Smith was finally removed from J&J Cafeteria after the relative of a restaurant employee alerted authorities to the abuse.

Before 2009, Mr Smith worked at J&J Cafeteria for 19 years under the management of other members of the Edwards family. He began working as a dishwasher at 12 years old before becoming a cook and was paid for his labour until the restaurant was taken over by Bobby Paul Edwards.

Mr Smith said that he felt unsafe during the five years in which he was forced to work by Edwards, and that he felt like [he] was in prison.
Fox News host Maria Bartiromo claimed that the Chinese are secretly sending "doctors and engineers" over the US border with Mexico.

The host made the comments during an interview on Sunday with Texas Governor Greg Abbott.

"It seems like the cartels are really winning and making big money here," she said. "Someone told me this week that they're making $400m monthly. I mean, the numbers, because they're charging $4,000 a head, they're taking 2,000 people a day into America. And depending on where you come from, the numbers are even higher."

She then claimed another individual told her about the alleged Chinese incursion.

"One guard told me that they apprehended a group from China," Ms Bartiromo said. "And the group from China told them that they paid $50,000 a head. And by the way, these were scientists and doctors and engineers from China."

Then, having apparently accepted the unnamed border guard's story, she said: "You have to ask, why the CCP is sending these people through the border, obviously they don't want to be noticed. What are they doing when they get here?"

Despite the story being unverified, Mr Abbott was happy to speculate on what might be behind it.

"It could be espionage," he volunteered. "They're forgetting about the people from China, from Iran, from terrorist-based nations. It could be espionage."

While it is not unheard of for Chinese nationals to try to enter the US through the southern border, it is rare; according to far-right news outlet Breitbart, fewer than 1 per cent of border arrests are believed to be Chinese nationals.

Though Chinese power and global influence has been expanding and poses a threat to the US's stranglehold on world power, there have been as much disinformation about the country's actions as there has been legitimate analysis.

In December, a conspiracy theory circulated among members of the QAnon movement alleging that Chinese troops had amassed a force of some 50,000 troops on the northern border of Maine.

According to the baseless claim, the troops were obliterated by US airstrikes and "anti-personnel bombs" at the border.

The theory also claimed that an F-16 that crashed in Michigan was actually shot down by the Chinese, which had supposedly prompted the US response.

Officials in both the town of Jackman, Maine  approximately 16 miles south of the state's border with Canada  and the state's National Guard said there was no US military action in the region that corroborates the claims.
Months after being designated as a terrorist entity by Canada, the far-right group Proud Boys Canada announced on Sunday that it has officially dissolved itself.

In a statement posted on the Proud Boys USA channel on Telegram, the organisation also denied being a white supremacy group.

Describing it as a serious and growing threat, Canada in February branded Proud Boys as a terrorist organisation alongside Isis, al-Qaeda and Hizbul Mujahedin. It said that the decision was influenced by the pivotal role the neo-fascist group had played in the 6 January riots at the Capitol in Washington, DC.

The truth is, we were never terrorists or a white supremacy group, said the statement posted by the administrator of the official Proud Boys Telegram channel. We are electricians, carpenters, financial advisors, mechanics, etc. More than that, we are fathers, brothers, uncles and sons, it said.

Founded in 2016 by Gavin McInnes, the all-male and anti-immigrant group began as an organisation that protested political correctness and perceived constraints on masculinity in the United States and Canada.

But it soon grew to embrace street violence, making headlines in Canada in 2017 when five off-duty military members wearing black polo shirts disrupted a protest organised by Indigenous activists in Halifax on Canada Day. These members of the Canadian Armed Forces referred to themselves as Proud Boys.

By October 2018, the group was banned from Facebook and Instagram for violating the platforms hate policies and is classified as an extremist organisation by the FBI.

And in late January this year, Canadas parliament passed a motion calling on prime minister Justin Trudeaus government to designate the Proud Boys as a banned terrorist group.

Additional reporting by agencies
Facebooks independent oversight board will announce whether it will uphold its suspension of Donald Trump from the companys platforms on 5 May.

The social media company indefinitely suspended then-president Trump from Facebook and Instagram following an insurrection at the Capitol on 6 January.

In April, the board announced that it received more than 9,000 responses following an extended public comment period.

Following the pro-Trump riots, fueled by the former presidents persistent lie that the 2020 election was stolen from him and his supporters, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced that the risks of allowing President Trump to continue to use our service during this period are simply too great.

His decision to use his platform to condone rather than condemn the actions of his supporters at the Capitol building has rightly disturbed people in the US and around the world, Mr Zuckerberg wrote in a post on 7 January. We removed these statements yesterday because we judged that their effect  and likely their intent  would be to provoke further violence. ,

Facebook handed a decision over his indefinite suspension to the oversight board, which contains an international group of free speech, human rights and technology experts and legal scholars, providing the company with principled, independent decisions that are binding on Facebook about important pieces of content and issuing advisory opinions on Facebooks content moderation policies.

The board will announce a decision in Mr Trumps case at 9am EDT on Wednesday.

Mr Trump was locked out of his Twitter account for 12 hours after the riot, then permanently banned from the platform two days later.

Googles YouTube said it would lift a ban on his channel when the elevated violence risk subsides, CEO Susan Wojcicki said in March.

Several other platforms, including Reddit, Twitch and Snapchat, have also taken action against Mr Trump and accounts and message boards affiliated with his allies and supporters for repeat content policy violations.
Tourists will be able to holiday in EU countries from next month as long as they are vaccinated or from a nation with low rates of coronavirus such as the UK, under European Commission proposals.

The plan would relax the rules on non-essential travel from the start of June at the latest, paving the way for summer holidays on the continent.

Under the proposals from the EUs executive branch, foreign citizens will be allowed into EU nations as long as they have been fully vaccinated against Covid-19 or are from countries deemed to have a good epidemiological situation. The amended requirement for entry  arriving from a country with fewer than 100 cases per 100,000 people  would put Britain on the safe list.

However, Boris Johnson warned on Monday against Britain opening up too quickly, saying there would be an influx of disease if too many travel restrictions were lifted.

The prime minister said he does want some opening up later this month  but said the government would be cautious about the number of countries on the quarantine-free green list.

That list will probably be unveiled at the end of this week after the latest scientific advice on the levels of Covid-19 infection. The ban on overseas travel is due to be lifted on 17 May.

But Mr Johnson, on the campaign trail in Hartlepool, said: We do want to do some opening up on 17 May. But I dont think that the people of this country want to see an influx of disease from anywhere else  I certainly dont.

Weve got to be cautious and weve got to be sensible and weve got to make sure that we dont see the virus coming back in.

The Independent has been told that only a quite small number of countries will be on the green list  with the rest of Europe suffering more Covid cases, having vaccinated far fewer people.

Gibraltar, Israel, Iceland and Malta are expected to be on the list  and, possibly, the United States  but most of the major Mediterranean destinations will be missing.

Only people coming in from green list countries escape self-isolation, although they will still be required to take pre-departure and post-arrival tests at a cost of up to 100.

Ministers fear that holidaymakers will bring back new variants of coronavirus, some of which have the potential to evade the immunity from infection provided by vaccines.

For that reason, a cross-party group of MPs and peers has called for the travel ban to stay in place through the summer, to prevent a deadly third wave and further lockdowns.

Restrictions should continue with a review every three months and this would effectively rule out holidays until late August at the earliest, the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Coronavirus said.

The EUs plans are due to be discussed from Tuesday and require the approval of the EUs member states before they can become law.

European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen shared the proposals on Twitter, writing: Time to revive the EUs tourism industry and for cross-border friendships to rekindle  safely.

The citizens of just seven countries, including Australia and Singapore, are currently allowed into the EU for non-essential reasons without vaccination. They are, however, subject to tests or quarantine.

The plans state: The commission is proposing to amend the criteria to take into account the mounting evidence of the positive impact of vaccination campaigns. The proposal is to increase the threshold of 14-day cumulative Covid-19 case notification rate from 25 to 100. This remains considerably below the current EU average, which is over 420.

The UKs 14-day rate is currently at 49.3 cases per 100,000, according to World Health Organisation figures  far below Frances 551.2, while Spain is at 190.1 and Italy is at 285.6. The list of countries from which non-essential travel is permitted would be reviewed at least every two weeks.

People who have been fully vaccinated with vaccines authorised by the EU would need to have had their final jab at least two weeks before travelling to the bloc. Children ineligible for vaccination would be allowed to accompany their parents, as long as they test negative for the virus.

Foreign citizens would be able to prove their vaccination status with certificates provided by their own governments before the EUs vaccination passport, the Digital Green Certificate, comes into effect.

To limit the spread of variants, the commission also suggested an emergency brake mechanism that would allow the EU to quickly introduce temporary travel restrictions on countries with rapidly rising Covid-19 cases.
Portugal, Malta, Gibraltar, Iceland and Finland are all expected to be on the green list when international leisure travel restarts on 17 May, according to a travel expert.

Most of the rest of Europe is predicted to be amber when the UKs traffic light system goes live, said Paul Charles, CEO of travel consultancy the PC Agency.

In a series of tweets, he outlined which 24 countries were looking likely to be declared green right from the off, based on vaccine rates, infection rates, evidence of variants and data quality.

Outside Europe, Mr Charles said a number of Caribbean destinations were likely to be green, naming Barbados, Grenada, Saint Lucia, Antigua and Jamaica, plus the British Overseas Territories of Anguilla, Bermuda, the Cayman Islands, Montserrat, Turks and Caicos, the British Virgin Islands, Ascension, South Georgia, Saint Helena, British Antarctic Territory and the Pitcairn Islands.

Israel, Morocco and the Falkland Islands were also a shoe-in for the green list, predicted Mr Charles.

Popular holiday spots the Maldives, Seychelles and Sri Lanka are not expected to be green at present due increases in infection rates that are possibly linked to the Indian variant of the virus.

Cyprus is also of concern due to 100%+ infection increase in the last month, said Mr Charles. Its number one in our chart.

He shared a chart compiled by the PC Agency that looks at four sets of data: the percentage of the population whove received one dose of the vaccine; the cumulative number of infections per 100,000 people over the previous seven days; the cumulative number of infections per 100,000 people over the previous 14 days; and the percentage change in 14-day infections compared to the previous week.

Underneath Cyprus are Turkey, Bahrain, Sweden and Croatia.

By the end of June, most of Europe is expected to have to changed to green, along with the US.

Mr Charles believes the government will announce the full traffic-light lists on 6 or 7 May, before confirming on 10 May that travel can restart from the 17 May.

Every country will be designated red, amber or green under the new system.

Each colour comes with a different set of rules depending on the risk of importing new cases of Covid into the UK.

 Optimism over Covid-19 crisis 'should have been more restrained' says Narendra Taneja

All passengers travelling to the country must present a negative Covid test result before departure  rapid antigen, lateral flow and PCR are all acceptable.

After that, green countries will have the lightest restrictions, with arrivals into England required to take one PCR test within two days of arrival.

Those travelling from amber countries will have to take two PCR tests, one on day two and one on day eight, and quarantine for 10 days at home  though they can cut self-isolation short in England if they opt to pay for another PCR test on day five.

And travellers from red list countries will continue with the same system thats in place now, required to pre-book an 11-night stay at a quarantine hotel and take a test on day two and day eight. The package currently costs 1,750 for a single traveller.

The Independent has contacted the Department for Transport for further information.
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Since our founding in September of 1963, The Independent has been dedicated to giving Livermore, Pleasanton, Dublin, and Sunol readers the news they need to be in-the-know about what's going on in the Tri-Valley region.
Bethlehem Township Volunteer Fire Co. Assistant Chief Eric Norder said firefighters were called to the home in the 1700 block of Third Street about 6:30 p.m. Norder, who was first to arrive, said he found smoke and flames coming from the rear of the house.
To highlight how severely the second wave of COVID-19 has affected India, Priyanka Chopra shared a video and urged people to donate in order to save lives.

The battle to stop the ravaging effects of Covid-19 in India still continues unabated. Your contributions to @give_india will make a huge, tangible difference! Your contributions will save lives #TogetherForIndia @give_india Click the link in bio to donate," she wrote.



Chopra has so far raised Rs 5.4 crore with her initiative that has got support from International stars like Reese Witherspoon, Lana Condor, Shawn Mendes and Camila Cabello among others.



giveindia.org

PC's fans thanked for raising funds as well as awareness on the country's situation. "Proud of you @priyankachopra for using your huge platform for better cause and to help people around the world especially Indians," wrote a fan. "Some of the celebrities dont need any help from outsiders. You doing a great job.., as ur insider for them so m sure they will appreciate ur help. Sometimes we need to see behind politics n focus on helping others. As life is very important," read another comment.

Instagram

Priyanka had announced the fundraiser with the help of Give India last week. "India, my home, is suffering the worlds worst Covid crisis, and we all need to help! People are dying in record numbers. There is illness everywhere, and its only continuing to spread and kill at great speed and scale."

"I have set up a fundraiser with GiveIndia, the largest organization on the ground in India providing Covid relief. Whatever you can spare, truly makes a difference. Nearly 63 million people follow me on here, if even 100,000 of you donate $10, thats $1 Million, and thats huge. Your donation will go directly to healthcare physical infrastructure (including Covid care centres, Isolation centers, and oxygen generation plants), medical equipment, and vaccine support and mobilization," she wrote.

Also Read: Camila Cabello To Katy Perry, International Stars Ask Fans To Donate For India Amid COVID Surge


As India is trying to battle the ravaging second wave of COVID-19, harrowing videos and photos have emerged. With the rising death toll, crematoriums running out of space.

This is not a movie.



This is a crematorium in Delhi, as COVID continues to wreak havoc in India. #CovidIndia pic.twitter.com/EM8vOaecFJ  Amarnath Amarasingam (@AmarAmarasingam) April 25, 2021

Mourning the loss of people who are dying because of COVID-19, Zoya Akhtar posted a moving couplet on her Instagram profile.

The couplet comments on the ongoing rage against the government for not being able to handle the second wave of the pandemic. "She is gone I am told, death by strangulation look closer, you will see the marks. She is not the only one I am told serial killer on the loose, look closer, those arent bonfires in the parks," it read.

Sushmita Sen also paid a tribute to the lost souls. Not only did she mourn people who lost their lives, she also paid a tribute to Covid warriors and urged people to do whatever they can to save lives.

Mini Mathur had posted a picture asking fans about their well-being. "Are you guys doing okay? Hang in there. Dedicate a few hours everyday to helping the less fortunate and please also find time to look after yourself and address the anxiety you are experiencing. Its a tough time for all of us. But we WILL get through," she wrote.



Yesterday, Irrfan Khan's wife Sutapa posted about losing a relative's ordeal with COVID-19. She said that her relative Sameer Banerjee failed to get a bed in any of the Delhi hospitals "because he wasn't Chota Rajan. She said they failed to even set up an ICU at home.

Twitter

Read More: 'I Will Not Forget This Mayhem In Delhi', Irrfan's Wife Sutapa's Relative Dies Of COVID-19
States like Delhi, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh are showing early signs of plateauing in daily new COVID cases but these are very early signals to analyse anything, the Centre said.

Some states including Delhi, Madhya Pradesh are showing early signs of plateauing/decrease in daily new cases: Lav Agarwal, Union Health Ministry Joint Secretary pic.twitter.com/eKCawiG8ou  ANI (@ANI) May 3, 2021

Some states are showing increasing trends in COVID cases, these states should take required precautionary measures. Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Chandigarh, Haryana, Karnataka Kerala, Himachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya are among those states: Joint Secy, Union Health Ministry pic.twitter.com/T34UgCK2DC  ANI (@ANI) May 3, 2021

We're seeing a positive approach in recoveries too. On May 2, the recovery rate was at 78% & on May 3 it climbed up to almost 82%. These are early gains on which we have to work on regularly: Lav Agarwal, Union Health Ministry Joint Secretary pic.twitter.com/3jh3kugMRS  ANI (@ANI) May 3, 2021

It said that the increasing share of recoveries vis-a-vis new COVID cases is a positive trend, but the challenge in terms of increased active cases continues.

Exploring feasibility of converting oxygen plants to produce oxygen

The government added it is exploring the feasibility of converting existing nitrogen plants to produce oxygen.

It said 12 states have over one lakh active COVID-19 cases, seven states have 50,000 to one lakh cases, and 17 states have less than 50,000 such infections.



Altaf Qadri/AP Photo

With 368,147 infections in the last 24 hours, the cumulative caseload stands at 19,925,604, according to MoHFW. As many as 3,417 deaths were also reported on the day. In the past seven days alone, India has added 2,597,887 cases to its tally. The country now has 3.4 million active cases.
West Tripura District Magistrate and Collector Shailesh Kumar Yadav, who was accused of "high handedness" in dealing with the people in two marriage halls in Agartala recently, has been removed by Tripura government.

Yadav, who earlier apologised for disrupting the marriage ceremonies during the raids on April 26, in a letter to the Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar requested to be relieved from the post of District Magistrate and Collector pending an inquiry into the incident that rocked the state and many parts of the country.

Tripura Education and Law Minister Ratan Lal Nath today said that responding to Yadav's request he has been relieved from the post and Director Industries and Commerce Raval Hamendra Kumar has been appointed as the new West Tripura District Magistrate and Collector.

ANI

The Tripura High Court following a petition on Monday has served a notice to the Tripura government to submit video footage, necessary evidence and other documents in connection with the April 26 incidents in the two marriage halls, said an IANS report.

Screen Grab

Former Chief Minister Manik Sarkar, at least five MLAs of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party, Tripura Women Commission Chairperson Barnali Goswami, all the opposition parties vehemently criticised the DM for his "unsavoury" behaviour and actions. One of the five MLAs Ashish Das also held demonstrations protesting the DM's actions.

"If anyone got hurt due to my action, I am apologising for that. I have done this for the larger interest of the society and the people. I have taken the strict action to give a message to the people to maintain the government SOP," Yadav told a local television channel after the controversy, as cited by IANS.
Labor MP Dawn Butler and Mayor of London Sadiq Khan attend a charity cycle ride for the India Covid relief fund at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir (Neasden Temple) on May 1, 2021 in London, England. He is participating in the Cycle to Save Lives India Covid Appeal. (Hollie Adams/Getty Images)
Ground staff unload the Covid-19 coronavirus medical supplies from France, upon the arrival of a cargo plane at the Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi on May 2, 2021. (Money Sharma/AFP via Getty Images)
A worker wearing a PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) suit takes a momentary break as people perform the last rites of patients who died of COVID-19 during a mass cremation held at a crematorium on May 1, 2021 in New Delhi, India. (Anindito Mukherjee/Getty Images)
This article is part of a yearlong reporting project focused on redistricting and gerrymandering in Pennsylvania. It is made possible by the support of Spotlight PA members and Votebeat, a project focused on election integrity and voting access.

HARRISBURG  A former University of Pittsburgh chancellor will chair the committee in charge of drawing Pennsylvanias legislative districts, a potentially tie-breaking position that can influence who holds power in the General Assembly for the next decade.

The Pennsylvania Supreme Court announced Monday that it had appointed Mark Nordenberg, who previously served as the dean of Pitts law school, to the Legislative Reapportionment Commission.

The four legislative leaders on the panel  Republicans Sen. Kim Ward and Rep. Kerry Benninghoff, and Democrats Sen. Jay Costa and Rep. Joanna McClinton  failed to agree on a fifth member after interviewing more than 30 people last week, giving the responsibility of naming a chair to the high court.

It was an assignment I thought I could perhaps do some good in, Nordenberg told Spotlight PA and Votebeat during a phone interview Monday afternoon, explaining the court approached him and asked if he would consider serving if the four commissioners couldnt come to a consensus.

The commission must now wait until at least mid-August for the U.S. Census Bureau to deliver the new population data needed to begin redrawing Pennsylvanias state House and Senate districts.

In their order, the justices  five Democrats and two Republicans  did not explain why they picked Nordenberg. The redistricting chair typically serves as mediator and referee between the four legislators, who historically have submitted maps that benefit their own party. The chair also serves as the tiebreaker vote in the event of an impasse.

I know that its going to be a lot of work, and there may be contentious moments along the way. But it is an extraordinarily important process for Pennsylvanias democracy, he said.

Nordenberg, who was born and raised in Minnesota, became a law professor at the University of Pittsburgh School of Law in 1977. He became dean of the law school in 1985 and was elected chancellor in 1996.

He announced his retirement in June 2013 and was named chair of the University of Pittsburgh Institute of Politics, an independent nonprofit at Pitt, a year later.

Nordenberg will be the third former law professor to serve in the role. The position has also been held by three former judges. The chair has always been a man.

Its the fifth time in the commissions six-decade existence that the court has appointed a chair after commissioners deadlocked.

Nordenberg said he was a finalist for the chair position once before, when he was a law school dean in 1991. The four legislative commissioners at the time voted 2-1 with one abstention to appoint him, but questions about whether a majority vote was needed made him walk away from the position, leaving the court to appoint someone.

The caucus leaders told the state Supreme Court justices in a letter Friday that they wanted someone who was a fair and neutral arbiter of the process and who hadnt run for office or worked as a lobbyist recently.

This will ensure the chair of the commission will come into this process dissociated from partisan politics, the commissioners wrote.

Nordenberg said he hasnt spoken directly to the four commissioners, but reached out to them individually to get a better sense of their expectations for his role as chair. He wasnt one of the roughly three dozen people the caucus leaders publicly interviewed for the position.

In statements, the two Democrats on the committee, Costa and McClinton, said Nordenberg was qualified for the position. Benninghoff and Ward, the Republicans, said they were pleased the appointment was made in a timely manner.

The citizens of Pennsylvania are counting on him to navigate the challenging process in his role as chairman of the commission, Ward said in a statement.

A registered Democrat who identifies as a centrist in most things that I do, Nordenberg said he has worked well with members of both political parties. As chancellor, he spent time in Harrisburg advocating for his university and said he came away with genuine respect for and good feelings toward state House and Senate members.

I have admiration for people on both sides of the aisle, he said.

He has been publicly critical of former Republican President Donald Trump, writing that Trumps allusions to violence  including his call to armed militia members to liberate state capitols  were troubling and that Trumps time in office deserved a D grade for disease, denial, deceit and division.

The once-a-decade redrawing of Pennsylvanias political boundaries comes after a year of intense partisan clashes over the 2020 election and the states pandemic response. While Republicans held redistricting power a decade ago, that balance has shifted toward Democrats because of changes in the executive and judicial branches.

Republican lawmakers will draw a new congressional map as part of legislation, but it must go to Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf for approval. Should they fail to reach an agreement, the state Supreme Court could be asked to step in.

The five-member Legislative Reapportionment Commission, meanwhile, draws the state House and Senate maps. Anyone may challenge one or both of the final maps within 30 days, and if that happens, the high court steps in for a review.

In 2011, the Republican-majority Supreme Court rejected the commissions first maps for splitting too many municipalities in violation of the Pennsylvania Constitution.

Nordenberg said he isnt coming into the process with any kind of partisan bias.

I think that fair elections are essential to democracy, and fair district lines are essential to fair elections, he said.

WHILE YOURE HERE  If you learned something from this story, pay it forward and become a member of Spotlight PA so someone else can in the future at spotlightpa.org/donate. Spotlight PA is funded by foundations and readers like you who are committed to accountability journalism that gets results.
Culpeper, VA (22701)

Today

A few showers this morning. Isolated thunderstorms developing in the afternoon. High 87F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%..

Tonight

Cloudy with occasional showers. Low 68F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%.
Details of the visit were not released Sunday evening but the White House said it will be one of two appearances by Emhoff as Biden administration officials travel around the country to build support for the $4 trillion plan. When Biden announced the legislation, which would include $85 billion to expand mass transit, it rekindled conversation about the return of passenger rail to the Lehigh Valley.
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The unfavorable conditions resulting from the Covid-19 pandemic on the North American economy did not allow Raphael Lessard Racing to implement their strategy in the search for funding in 2020. They are now turning their attention to preparing for the 2022 season, based on the driver's major accomplishments since his start in NASCAR, on the groundwork already established this year, and on the anticipated economic recovery on both sides of the border.

"My management team and I have always believed in our ultimate success and we still do. Over the last years, we have focused all our energies on completing full seasons in the upper echelons of NASCAR, and we have achieved that goal recently. However, we are currently in a situation where we cannot continue this season, and it's hard to accept that fact. All I have ever wanted is to be behind a steering wheel and win!" explains an emotional Raphael Lessard.

"We are not putting an end to all things racing. My dream is still to race in the Daytona 500 and see my parents sitting in the stands! We are open to opportunities and most importantly, we are working with GMS Racing to come back stronger in 2022. That is our goal! In addition, I enjoyed every moment with GMS Racing, from the preparation to the track, and I want to give special thanks to Maurice J. Gallagher (Maury), Mike Beam, Josh Wise, Chevrolet and Christopher Biby, my Agent, Chad Walter, my crew chief, Tyler Monn, my spotter and all the crew at GMS Racing," confided the man who has made racing history on several occasions.

THANKS TO ALL OF YOU!

"Right from the beginning of my career, I have owed my growth in the sport to many people: my parents, those who have travelled with me around the countries, Raphael Lessard Racing, Les Equipes Caissie-Menard, the fans who have supported me on social and other networks, the media, the race teams who have welcomed me, and above all, the investors and partners who have believed in my talent. Without all of you, nothing would have been possible. You know some of our key supporters and I will not name them here out of respect. However, I know that they will recognize themselves," concludes Raphael Lessard.
Having recently marked the one-year anniversary of the COVID-19 pandemic, it seems like an opportune time to consider how the pandemic has impacted the insurance industry. While business interruption (BI) lawsuits (totaling more than 1,500 as of March 31, 2021) have dominated the headlines, the pandemics effects stretch far beyond BI claims. Indeed, the pandemic has impacted virtually all aspects of the industry and those impacts will likely alter the insurance landscape for years to come.

Here are some of the less-publicized, but nonetheless significant, ways in which COVID-19 has affected the business of insurance.

Auto and Other Lines

In the personal auto line, claim frequency plummeted due to the lockdown. Anyone who ventured out during the first six months of the pandemic experienced largely abandoned streets and highways that often gave off a post-apocalyptic vibe. Those open roads, however, apparently encouraged many to drive faster and less carefully. Thus, while claim frequency dropped dramatically, claim severity increased. According to Insurance Information Institute estimates, for example, property damage frequency was down more than 30% while severity was up by almost 20%.

Abrupt changes to driving behaviors (people staying home and not driving to/from school or work) also impacted personal auto premiums. Drivers across the country received premium rebates because of the dramatic reduction in driving. The American Property Casualty Insurance Association estimates that insurance companies have refunded more than $14 billion to policyholders. But regulators, consumer advocates and class action attorneys claim that is not enough. Californias Insurance Commissioner is pushing carriers to double the refunds they have made, and he is requiring them to show how they intend to provide additional refunds. A number of insurers have also been hit with proposed class action lawsuits claiming that they unfairly profited from the pandemic.

Other lines of coverage experienced drastic reductions in premium as a result of lockdowns. Workers compensation, travel, event cancellation and trade credit were among the lines hit hardest. And while reduced claims helped offset the impact of reduced premium in some lines, like workers comp, other lines suffered the double whammy of reduced premiums and increased claims. In the global event cancellation market, which generated average annual premiums of $500-$600 million pre-pandemic, COVID-related losses could reach as high as $6 billion. One event alone  the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo  could produce losses of $2 billion to $3 billion if the Olympic Games, rescheduled for Summer 2021, are ultimately canceled.

How Behaviors Changed

COVID lockdowns have also led to some interesting, but entirely logical, changes in human behavior. Dog ownership, for example, spiked in 2020. While that could provide growth opportunities for pet insurance, the industry might also see an increase in dog-related liability claims, particularly with so many first-time owners taking hold of the leash. In 2019, dog bite and other dog-related injuries resulted in nearly $800 million in losses for homeowners insurers. The industry may see a bump in losses in 2020 and 2021.

Carriers are likely to see new COVID-related products liability claims. From hand sanitizers and disinfectants to masks and other protective equipment, manufacturers and distributors sold many products that were claimed to prevent or reduce the risk of infection. COVID tests and various treatments were also heavily marketed to consumers. To the extent plaintiffs attorneys can develop evidence showing that these products did not function as promised, were defective, did not contain proper warning, or, perhaps were fraudulently misrepresented, products liability suits will proliferate.

The pandemic has affected the life, health and disability business in many ways. Obviously, life insurers have experienced an increase in claims due to excess deaths attributed to COVID-19. But lines such as long-term care and disability have been impacted as well. Long-term care insurers have experienced reduced claims (due, in part, to increased deaths) and a higher rate of terminations for such insurance as economic hardships have reduced disposable income. In the disability space, rising COVID-related claims were offset by decreased claims arising from injuries and surgeries as policyholders hunkered down at home and canceled medical appointments. And scientists and medical professionals are still unsure about the potential long-term effects of COVID. Anecdotal evidence indicates that some COVID patients have experienced muscle pain, headaches and brain fog months after testing positive. If such chronic symptoms persist and become more widespread, health and disability lines could be impacted. Chronic symptoms would likewise affect workers comp.

How Underwriters Changed

The pandemic has also changed the way insurers do business, from underwriting to claims. While digitization was an industry priority before COVID, the pandemic accelerated the transition. As personal interaction was cut off, insurance providers scrambled to retain business and expand market share through virtual communications. On the claims side, carriers experienced similar obstacles. On-site accident investigations, independent medical exams, home inspections and in-person interviews became difficult if not impossible. Consequently, alternative approaches were employed for both underwriting and claims, and tools such as risk modeling, drones and mobile apps have taken on greater importance.

As insurance professionals and their customers get used to the new digital reality, its unlikely the industry can go back to the old ways of doing business.

Finally, the pandemic has forced the industry to re-examine its role in future pandemics or other black swan events.

Insurers are an easy target in crises, and the pandemic was no exception. Regulators, consumer advocates and, to some extent, the press, have jumped on carriers for rejecting BI claims. They focus on the plight of small businesses that have been devastated by COVID and portray carriers as relying on cryptic policy language to avoid paying claims. While the courts (at least in the U.S.) have largely come down on the side of insurers, the potential reputational harm to the industry cannot be discounted.

Carriers need to reconsider marketing materials and policy language so that it is very clear what coverage they are and are not providing. Insurers must also consider their role as global corporate citizens and help develop solutions for future events.

Chubb, for example, has proposed a private-public partnership program to protect small businesses in the event of another event resulting in widespread lockdowns. Lloyds of London is also developing a program, ReStart, which is similarly designed. While the industry cannot solve all of the devastating effects of a pandemic, it can, and should, play an active role.

Nearly every industry has experienced dramatic effects of the pandemic, and the insurance industry is no exception.

For the industry, COVIDs impact has not been limited to the exposures that typically arise from a catastrophe. It has been a truly unique black swan event that has affected the industry in ways that will likely change the way insurers do business for years to come. The industry appears well positioned to deal with the impacts of the pandemic and play an active role in developing solutions for future global catastrophes.

Topics COVID-19
Fire marshals are investigating the cause of a restaurant fire in Rehoboth Beach that caused half a million dollars in damage.

The Delaware Office of the State Fire Marshal said the blaze started around 2 a.m. Saturday at Shrimpys Pub on Rehoboth Avenue. Flames were shooting from the building when firefighters arrived.

The restaurant is about a mile off the towns boardwalk.

Two other businesses in the shopping center were also damaged. The fire marshal is estimating overall damage at $500,000.

The investigation is ongoing.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Restaurant
Kansas highest court on April 30 upheld a law barring so-called wrongful birth lawsuits against doctors, in a case in which a couple sued because they werent told of serious fetal defects until after an abortion could have been obtained.

The state Supreme Court ruled against the parents of a girl born with a severe brain abnormality who said they would have opted for an abortion had they known of their daughters medical problems months before her May 2014 birth.

The Republican-controlled Legislature and then-GOP Gov. Sam Brownback passed the law against wrongful birth lawsuits in 2013 at the urging of abortion opponents. It overturned a 1990 state Supreme Court ruling saying Kansas law allowed such lawsuits, and current Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly, then a state senator, voted against it.

The parents attorneys argued that the law violated provisions of the states bill of rights declaring the right to a jury trial inviolate and providing a right to remedy by due course of law for injuries. But four of the seven state Supreme Court justices concluded that the states 1850s founders didnt recognize wrongful birth as a legal concept, making it an innovation that isnt covered by those constitutional provisions.

It is a new species of malpractice action first recognized in 1990, Justice Dan Biles wrote in their opinion.

The decision upholds a policy favored by anti-abortion groups, whove long criticized the court as too liberal. The state Supreme Court declared in 2019 that access to abortion is a fundamental right under the state constitution, meaning it would be protected in Kansas if the U.S. Supreme Court overturned its landmark 1973 Roe v. Wade decision. But the recent ruling did not cite the 2019 decision or frame the issues in terms of abortion rights.

The birth of a child should be cause for celebration, not for the law to award damages because the child was wrongfully born, said Attorney General Derek Schmidt, a Republican, who defended the law and is running for governor in 2022.

The four justices were joined in upholding the law by Justice Caleb Stegall, Brownbacks only appointee on the court. He was the lone dissenter in the 2019 ruling protecting abortion rights.

Stegall argued that the majority should have simply overturned the 1990 ruling, calling it one of the worst decisions in our courts history and a black mark on par with a U.S. Supreme Court decision upholding the right to inter Japanese Americans during World War II.

He said that although the 1990 ruling precluded lawsuits when healthy children are born, it promoted reprehensible discrimination by allowing lawsuits when a child has gross deformities.

The Kansas Supreme Court said quite loudly that under Kansas law, some lives are worth more than others, Stegall wrote.

Chief Justice Marla Luckert and Justice Eric Rosen disagreed with the majority and would have allowed the lawsuit to proceed.

Luckert said the case contained the essence of a medical malpractice action, with the right to file such a lawsuit already recognized when the Kansas Constitution was written in 1859.

Rosen went further in his own opinion, rejecting the idea that constitutional protections for the right to sue cover only types of lawsuits recognized as valid in 1859.

I believe that recognizing the injury in cases like the one alleged here simply ensures that patients receive competent medical care or compensation for damages if they do not, Rosen wrote.

A dozen other states besides Kansas have similar laws, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a research organization that supports reproductive rights. It has argued that such laws are part of an anti-abortion strategy to deny women information that might lead them to terminate pregnancies.

In the Kansas case, the girls brain abnormality left her permanently disabled and unable to ever perform activities of daily living, according to court documents. The parents, Alysia Tillman and Storm Fleetwood, said that four months before the birth, Dr. Katherine Goodpasture told them that an ultrasound showed a healthy female fetus.

The parents said the ultrasound actually showed severe deformities and brain defects, something Goodpature disputed. Another ultrasound a few days before the girls birth showed a problem with her brain.

The parents said Tillman was deprived of her right to make an informed decision about her pregnancy and they sued to recover the extra costs of caring for a severely disabled child. A district judge in Riley County in northeastern Kansas dismissed the case after Goodpasture argued that their lawsuit violated the states law against wrongful birth lawsuits.

An attorney for the doctor declined to comment on the ruling.

But Lynn Johnson, a Kansas City-area attorney representing the parents, said the courts majority used tortured mental gymnastics to issue a ruling that gives medical providers immunity even if they mislead patients. He worried that it could prompt the Legislature to restrict lawsuits even further.

What will they ban next? he said.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Lawsuits Kansas
Development prompted him to get involved in the township almost immediately after moving in. There was word that the community park next to his house might get sold and turned into a water park, so Barbounis joined the parks board (which has since consolidated with the recreation board). At one point, he served on four township committees. But now he wants to have more of an impact.
Grange Replaces Heath at B&Bs National Programs Unit

Jeff Grange has been named president of Tampa Programs, part of Brown & Brown National Programs, which includes the Dental Protector Plan, Lawyers Protector Plan, Protector Plans for optometrists and physicians, and other professional insurance programs.

Grange replaces Susan Heath who is retiring after a 23-year career at Brown & Brown.

She has left a mark in Tampa Programs that will forever be admired and respected, said Chris Walker, president of Brown & Brown National Programs, about Heath.

Grange has more than 30 years of industry experience. Most recently, he was the executive vice president of U.S. operations for Argo Group. His responsibilities included claims, Argo Insurance, Rockwood Casualty Insurance Co., Argo Pro, Argo Cyber, Argo Primary Casualty and Argo Excess Casualty business units.

From 2013 to 2019 Grange was president of specialty and commercial insurance for QBE North America as well as the global head of Trade Credit & Surety. Prior to QBE, he was chairman of the group underwriting committee and global practice leader for management and professional liability at Torus Insurance. He also spent 20 years with the Chubb Group, where he held various global senior management roles. Grange is on the North American Board of Advisors for Catalyst, a global nonprofit working to help build workplaces that work for women.

National Programs is composed of 29 managing general agencies and program administrators offering 65 insurance markets, including small business, forestry, special events, professional liability, municipalities and educational institutions.

Batta Joins Bridge Wholesale in Operations

Bridge Specialty Wholesale, the newly-formed subsidiary of Brown & Brown, has named Anurag Batta as chief operating officer for Bridge Specialty Group.

In this newly-created role, Batta will be responsible for driving operational transformation and profitable growth. He will work closely with Stephen M. Boyd, president ,and other senior leaders.

Batta brings 20 years of strategic and operational experience to Bridge Specialty Group. Prior to joining Bridge Specialty Group, Batta served as the chief operating officer of Zurich North America, where he was responsible for strategy, business transformation, innovation, customer experience, data and analytics, corporate communications, and marketing.

Bridge Specialty Group was launched in February 2021 by Brown & Brown to encompass its more than 25 broad wholesale insurance businesses and is focused on bringing the power of collective size and specialty to the wholesale brokerage marketplace.

Rhodes Heads Liberty Mutual Workers Comp Claims

Liberty Mutual Insurance has appointed Virna Rhodes to lead its workers compensation claims organization, which managed more than 300,000 new claims in 2020, representing more than $3 billion in medical and indemnity payments.

Global Risk Solutions Chief Claims Officer Steve Deane said Rhodes will lead an organization for injured workers and customers of Helmsman Management Services, Liberty Mutuals wholly-owned third-party administrator.

Before joining Liberty Mutual in 2013, and subsequently transitioning to commercial insurance claims, Rhodes managed a range of claims teams at both Allstate Insurance and Farmers Insurance.

Rhodes takes over leadership of the workers compensation claims organization from Wes Hyatt, who recently was appointed chief client officer, Global Risk Solutions.

Topics Claims
Steve Menzies, founder and chairman of Applied Underwriters Inc., is a busy man. Since he reacquired his company from Warren Buffetts Berkshire Hathaway in 2019, he has been buying businesses, creating new subsidiaries, welcoming new teams of professionals and growing his firm domestically and internationally. He describes it as building an entrepreneurial power plant. Insurance Journal had many questions for Menzies. What was it like working with Buffett and why did AU leave Berkshire? Whats his grand scheme for the company and why expand now? And what about the disputes with California regulators? Menzies agreed to answer questions in writing on these and other issues. The following is an unedited version of the questions and his answers.

In 2019, you re-acquired Applied Underwriters Inc. and its subsidiary North American Casualty Co. in a deal that was valued at $920 million and included the buyout of other shareholders including the 81% of stock held by Berkshire Hathaway since 2005. How did the deal to sell to Berkshire back in 2005 come about? What happened then? Did you initiate it, did Berkshire?

Our story unfolded in a way almost organically, progressing from our founding in 1994, to a deal for Berkshire to acquire a majority of the equity in 2005, and up to our buy back in 2019. Back in 2005, we were a hot property; in fact, AIG and other large companies courted Applied as a result of our stand out growth and profitability. We had just debuted with an AM Best A- rating for our subsidiary, California Insurance Company. Our initial, rather bold impulse was to go it alone, but our growth required capital. Shortly after arranging a large quota share with Berkshire, we suddenly found ourselves considering  and liking  an unsolicited offer from Berkshire to buy Applied, and within weeks, we shook hands on a deal with Warren. We were already in Omaha having located our operations there six years earlier. We negotiated a fair arrangement and retained a substantial economic interest in Applied which, it turned out in 2019, gave us an equity base from which we were able to launch our buyback of the Company. As an entrepreneur, I have long felt a sense of inevitability about such a buyback and have looked toward the opportunities that independent ownership hold. Our acquisitions and market positioning over the past 18 months show the value of that transaction for Applied.

How was Applied Underwriters run under Berkshire? I believe the business grew. But were you satisfied with how things went, or frustrated? Did you have expansion ideas then?

Applied developed a corporate culture all its own within Berkshire. I had the privilege of reporting directly to Warren and had his ear and encouragement. I had the advantage, as well, of his modus operandi; that is, Warren almost invariably makes the right investment, and then leaves its affairs in the hands of those who made it attractive in the first place. His ways of operating and ours were complementary, similar in most cases, and it all worked well. On a personal note, my relationship with Warren meant a lot to me  it still does  and I found myself emulating his approach to business with objectivity, yet always with respect for the courage of entrepreneurs. Gradually, as our footprint became broader nationally and deeper in the market place, our very growth began to create a formulaic problem for Berkshire: we and the other Berkshire insurance businesses were all growing into competitors creating unproductive channel conflict. There was actually a bit of marketplace friction, albeit polite and friendly, among allies, but Warren never stepped in; he let the inevitable play out and, as is the customary outcome with him, everyone profited.

What more can you tell us about Warren Buffett and your time with Berkshire? What do you think he and Berkshire learned from you and Applied Underwriters?

Words move, examples compel, so the saying goes. Warren set the governance standards with great, but tempered ambition for all of the companies in Berkshire and showed strength through his native humility and modesty  characteristics that provided compelling examples: a consummate capitalist and easily among the leading paradigms of entrepreneurship in business history, he operated with utmost integrity. Our first handshake in 2005 became the basis of a substantial mutually beneficial relationship based upon trust.

To the second part of your question, I really cant speculate upon what my friends, former colleagues and partners at Berkshire might have learned from me, if anything, except that I profited by keeping good faith with Warren and never feared a degree of boldness and innovation within the corporate context. The acquisition of Applied was a rocket launch for us, not a comfortable landing.

Why and how did the deal to reacquire Applied in 2019 come about? Did you initiate it, did Berkshire?

Like so many of the best transactions, there was a natural, even an inevitable quality to it  no one needed to push the other or try to fight what seemed like a foregone next stage for Applied. Again, internal channel conflict had become problematic, Applied was not wholly owned  we held a substantial economic share  so the impulse to control the Company we had built and developed was especially strong. Warrens annual letters alluded to the creation of enterprises within Berkshires walls, a successful approach. We were such an enterprise and had to move into new spheres of opportunity independently.

What was your role when Berkshire owned its shares? How has your role changed? Who are some of the people you rely on to implement your ideas?

It was simple and clear: I was the captain of the ship that I created and steered. We had attracted an impressive faculty, a kind of think tank known for its analytical acumen, cultured intellectual bent and profound concentration. With leadership consisting of professionals with highly varied experience and excellent educational credentials in math, economics, philosophy, and linguistics, our thought leadership is a competitive advantage and point of pride. We boast a team whose top 40 managers have an average tenure of over 18 years with the Company, demonstrating, we believe, an intellectual challenge and satisfaction equally important to such professionals as an excellent compensation program. A strong bench has allowed us to grow productively, and my role has evolved from essentially being COO, to today, as Chairman, mainly focusing on corporate development.

So it does appear you have been full speed ahead expanding and diversifying Applied Underwriters ever since 2019. Did you have a plan at that time to expand, or did the idea come to you after you reacquired?

The acquisition engine was fired long before October 10, 2019. Long before  we had experienced so much product demand that we almost could not help but innovate and find allies in key areas. We were more than ready to realize our growth plans that you have recently seen take form. Since Applied is decidedly not about lines of business per se, but instead about ideas, we draw many like-minded entrepreneurs to the table to protract the industrys future and the markets directions. We are now private and we have scale, a force letting us join prospective partners to Applied at an enviably rapid pace. Weve built  are building  a peerless infrastructure, some of it in traditional bricks and mortar such as our stunning new headquarters in Omaha, but, more significantly, with brainpower and a culture of responsible, though no less aggressive, risk taking. It happens in our intellectual mix; we do not, as do many of our competitors, jump immediately to outside sources for ideas and implementation. As a result, we have become a magnet for the brightest and the best thinkers, we believe, in the risk transfer business. Interestingly, and perhaps becoming the trend, many of our new partners attest to being unappreciated or misused within the new corporate protocols, shifting corporate priorities and safety only mentalities.

We may need a computer to tally up all the moves you have been making. You have acquired Florida Casualty, Centauri, Oklahoma P&C, Blue Ridge in the U.S. Plus you have acquired a yacht MGA in the UK and started a subsidiary for Europe and Middle East. At the same time, you have created Applied Specialty Underwriters. And expanded your D&O and Fine Arts teams. Did we miss some? What is your overarching vision for Applied Underwriters? What is your strategy?

It is not world domination, let me assure you, nor do we seek to do what we do not do well; thats a fundamental belief with Applied. We do plan to continue to profit by the many opportunities that we find in our extensive networks and global dealings, and to cultivate relationships with those increasing number of creditable entities that find their way to our doorstep. We have developed a sound base for corporate development, such as acquiring companies and for ensuring their advancement and success, and, philosophically, we are open and even somewhat agnostic as to the form of an opportunity, but that openness is not vacuity. Transactions, to us, need a special nexus to complement Applieds overall strategy and businesses; they need to be able to use our appreciable resources effectively  by which I do not mean some notion of economy of scale combinations. What I refer to is greater. I mean the kind of intellectual capacity and knowledge that fits our blueprint and works to give rise to the growth of great corporate institutions that do not compromise the entrepreneurial visions that made them distinctly successful in the first place.

How do all of the pieces you have acquired and started up fit together?

In a few words, as part of a dynamic, pumping, well-functioning, entrepreneurial power plant. Our infrastructure is a support system that seeks to integrate naturally and productively, and to service fully and effectively, the enterprises joining us. We genuinely appreciate the talent that our new partners and their operations bring into our winning formula. That is why the amount of idea-cloying bureaucracy, defensive silo-ed departments, and just plain corporate inertia are not to be found at Applied. We know what it is, and what it does, and we smoke it out if it appears. Our results evidence energy and a company playing like a live orchestra rather than a tired out recording.

Where do you see Applied Underwriters positioned within the P&C carrier and specialty insurance world going forward? How do you want brokers and competitors to see Applied?

Our strong suit has always been the end result of an insurance policy brokered with us: we care in earnest for our customers and for our claimants, some of whom are injured workers, for the livelihood of our brokers, and for the actual insurance industry itself. We feel privileged to be a part of it and do choose to invest in it again and again. I regularly reiterate to our staff that I believe deeply that our company has a good soul. I meant it and mean it, and our professionals have espoused that line of thinking in what we do. As this comes through over the years ahead, our brand, I believe, will be increasingly the standout brand, distinctly bright and genuinely esteemed for the respect that we show to claimants, brokers, the industry, and the general public.

As far as the industrys perception, we are pleasantly driven by a fresh spirit of free enterprise. Similarly, we look to our brokers for loyalty, for meaningful local market share, for their client care, and for their ability to understand and utilize our constantly refined and innovative products. We value agents and brokers and prove it daily.

Are more acquisitions ahead? Will you be launching new units and teams?

Yes to both. Watch for more news ahead.

Why is now a good time to expand into the P&C and specialty business? Where do you see the biggest opportunities for P&C insurance now?

Strategically, we examine almost every deal that comes our way, and we are open to new P&C business, especially as reactionary and shifting corporate priorities become reality. We have few competitors who have the same entrepreneurial systems for mutually beneficial relationships. With strong partnering companies like Applied, participants in the industry might see the present as the beginning of another Roaring 20s, with high valuations and financial risk reaching new stratospheres with many zeros added to valuations. Provided one is mindful that all good things do come to an end, now is a very good time to be in the business and be projecting growth.

Where do legal issues with the California Insurance Department stand? When and what will be the resolution? Have these battles inhibited you in what you hope to do?

I am advised not to comment on legal matters, but I can say that we have not been treated as we, or for that matter, any A-rated, financially sound insurer should be. Our attorneys and several opinion leaders have shared the view that we are bearing the brunt of bald-faced regulatory overreach, an arbitrary use of power to favor a segment of the legal profession, and the routine misuse or outright absence of proper, legally creditable decision making and action. It is beyond regulation as the law provides for it, and we will demonstrate that fact and the underlying motivations. I mean, ask yourself, why would an insurance department try to restrict and suppress one of a very few a home-grown insurance success stories, an A+ rated insurer with top ratings by all of Californias agencies, and a long record of service to businesses in the state? It was Applied that stepped up in the workers compensation crisis of 2001, that has written business in hard to place categories and locations, and has fought the CDI on occasion, but has never gone out of bounds as the recent actions by the CDI appear to observers in the industry and legal community to have gone. The CDI oversees a state insurance system that is in difficult straits  it doesnt make sense to us, or to anyone for that matter, that they would trip up a great and needed company. The motivation Im sure will come out in the end, but so much taxpayer money will be wasted, and so much opportunity in the consumer market place will have been missed. California Insurance Company has served our fellow citizens quite responsibly, especially when California needed us. Now, the CDIs agenda seems counter to the publics best interests.

You started Applied in 1994, right? What keeps you going? Do you ever think of retiring?

No. No thought of it. This is a revitalizing exercise every day, especially with the talented people around me at Applied and in the business, and with the opportunities available to those who are deeply engaged and willing to learn new things and to work smart and hard. For me, coming to the office is not a chore  Im energized by the positive, collegial attitude I find there. We work, we think, we thrive together, and our endeavor is fueled by a degree of creativity I have not seen elsewhere in the C-suites of comparable businesses.

What else should we know about Steve Menzies and Applied Underwriters?

The facts are easy enough. My CV is one of professional leadership here at Applied and one of volunteer philanthropic leadership. It is an obligation that I welcome. The Steve Menzies Global Foundation (see boldthinkers.org), sets out the way I see society being bettered, from hostage rescues, to collaborations in education in the poorest countries. I focus on areas that are underserved and can most benefit from my particular professional expertise. For me, advocacy only becomes meaningful with dedicated, personal engagement as well as sustained financial commitment.

Earlier in this interview, you asked about Warren and about my progress. I did not use a key word that has made the difference for him and I hope for my undertakings: discipline. The discipline of leadership at Applied is guided by that good soul characteristic that I feel will distinguish our brand; the discipline of personal success in my view is the exercise of intelligence, applied carefully and consistently through constant study and learning, to the task of bettering our world. I cannot think of a better goal for a company or for anyone.

Topics California Underwriting
New Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rules are expected to clear the way for expanded commercial use of drones, which are increasingly being used by insurers to assess property damage.

The updated Operations Over People rules, which took effect on April 21, allow certified commercial drone pilots to fly over people and moving vehicles while in transit and at night, subject to certain conditions. Drones must weigh less than 250 grams (0.55 pounds) and cannot contain rotating parts that can lacerate human skin.

The rules allow heavier drones to fly over people and vehicles if the operator can demonstrate to the FAA that their drones conform with performance standards, demonstrating that they have mitigated the risk of harming people if they fall. The agency said it intends to release performance standards in the next nine to 12 months.

State Farm got a jump on the new rules when the FAA in late 2020 issued a waiver allowing the insurance carrier to fly its drones over roadways. State Farm spokesman Dave Phillips said the company has been using drones since 2015, primarily to assess damage after catastrophes and for roof inspections.

He said FAA rules that prohibit flying over roadways decreased efficiency.

We would have to land it and literally pick it up and carry it across the street, he said. It just wasnt making any sense.

State Farm persuaded the FAA to issue a rules waiver after working with Virginia Tech to demonstrate that drones will not crash through windshields at normal traffic speeds. Researchers flew a small, parachute-equipped drone into a salvaged automobile windshield at varying speeds. No damage was done until the speed of the vehicle reached 67 mph.

The slim margin between a virtually pristine windshield and a destroyed one drew a clear boundary around low-risk scenarios, State Farm said in a press release. The data showed that as long as potential relative impact speeds never exceeded 62 mph, flights over moving vehicles presented minimal risk.

No waiver will be required for the smallest drones under the updated rules that took effect last week, but operators of drones than weigh more than 250 grams will have to wait for the FAA to develop performance measures and then demonstrate that their drones are safe.

So realistically, there will be some period of time before operators will really be able to leverage the rule, Eleanor Nelsen, director of communications for Virginia Techs Institute for Critical Technology and Applied Science, said in an email.

More broadly, though, our perspective is that having a quantitative understanding of an operations potential risks is always valuable for determining how to conduct that operation as safely as possible, she said. Building a safety case for a particular waiver was the original motivation for the research, but to us, the most significant outcome of it are new test methods for rigorously evaluating impact risk.

The FAA rules allow operators to fly over people and roads but only incidentally while in transit. Sustained flight over a road is not allowed. Similarly, sustained flight over congregations of people is not allowed unless specific conditions are met, including a remote identification device that sends an electronic signal, similar to an aircraft transponder.

The FAA website shows that Chubb Insurance and Auto-Owners Insurance have also obtained rule waivers, both to allow nighttime drone operations.

Topics Carriers Trends
Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt has signed a bill strengthening penalties for those who knowingly sell or provide alcohol to minors.

Senate Bill 283 by Sen. Michael Brooks, D-Oklahoma City, will require those convicted of such offenses to attend a victims impact panel program, along with other current penalties.

Brooks explained that the legislation was originally requested by a government class at Oklahoma Citys Southeast High School, who had participated in the Generation Citizen Project.

There is nothing more powerful and heartbreaking than hearing stories of loved ones killed or injured by drunk or impaired drivers. Attending these panels is already required for those convicted of DUIs, and its proven successful in lowering the number of repeat offenses, which is my hope with those who are unnecessarily putting minors in danger, Brooks said in a media release. After three years of working on this issue, Im beyond grateful for the overwhelming support of this bill. I want to again thank the Southeast High School students for bringing this important issue to my attention. Hopefully, parents and adults will realize the dangers of underage drinking and stop putting our youth at risk.

Victims impact panels are live presentations featuring speakers sharing how impaired driving has impacted them and their families. Panels are done in-person to ensure a greater impact and to foster awareness of the dangers of irresponsible decisions regarding alcohol and drugs.

Rep. Ross Ford, R-Broken Arrow, carried the measure in the House.

As a former police officer, Ive seen first-hand the devastation and loss caused by drunk driving, Ford said. Making adults aware of the potential harm of their decision to give alcohol to minors will hopefully save lives. Im impressed to see young Oklahomans taking such an initiative in crafting legislation and grateful to see this bill signed into law.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), car crashes are the leading cause of death for teens, ages 15-20. In 2018, 24% of those killed in car crashes were drunk. The NHTSA also found that in 2013, 42% of drivers with alcohol-related deaths were ages 16-24.

The new law, which is supported by the states largest panel, Victims Impact Panel of Oklahoma, and Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), will go into effect Nov. 1, 2021.

Source: Oklahoma Senate

Topics Oklahoma
Water pressure dropped Friday in Mississippis capital city after a fire broke out at one of Jacksons two water treatment plants.

The Jackson public works director, Charles Williams, said the fire started about 3:30 a.m. in a control panel, and it caused parts of the O.B. Curtis Water Plant to shut down. That left people with only a trickle of water to take showers or wash dishes with as they got ready for school or work Friday morning. Some restaurants closed.

Firefighters from Jackson and Ridgeland extinguished the blaze before sunrise, and Williams said an investigation continued into the cause.

A contractor was at the plant to make repairs, and power was restored before noon. The entire city was put under a boil water notice. Water pressure was increasing by midday, and Williams said the goal was to refill water storage tanks by Friday night.

Jackson Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba said bottled water would be distributed at two sites in the city.

Jackson has about 161,000 residents. A winter storm that coated large parts of the South in snow and ice in February caused machinery at one of Jacksons water treatment plants to freeze. That left parts of the city without water for weeks, and the entire city remained under a boil water notice for a month because of low pressure.

Lumumba said Friday that he considers the Jackson water system to have been under a state of emergency since February.

When we have aged systems, its not a matter of if but a matter of when we will experience the events and the breakdown of our system, Lumumba said.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Mississippi
San Diego County has agreed to pay $1 million to settle a lawsuit by three boys who alleged they were sexually assaulted by their foster brother, a newspaper reported Tuesday.

The lawsuit claimed county social workers hid the foster childs violent history from the foster mother, then refused her pleas to remove accused teenager from the home, the Union-Tribune reported.

The county and the other defendants, including five social workers, did not admit wrongdoing as part of the settlement. County officials did not respond to a request for comment from the newspaper.

Lawyers for the boys, who sued in 2018 through their adoptive mother, filed a motion to approve a minors compromise, which spells out how the settlement amount will be distributed. The motion must be approved by the judge overseeing the lawsuit, the Union-Tribune said.

The boys, identified only by initials, alleged negligence, civil rights violations and other wrongdoing.

One of the boys claimed he was molested when he was 6 while watching cartoons in the family living room.

Shawn McMillan, an attorney representing the family, said in a statement: The family is working hard to put this ordeal behind them and is hopeful that the county will put measures in place to ensure this never happens again to another family.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Lawsuits California
A federal appellate court on April 28 reversed a ruling that prevented California from enforcing a new labor law that trucking companies contend will force them to discontinue the use of independent owner-operators and classify all drivers as employees.

In a 2-1 decision, a panel of the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals found that a federal judge in San Diego abused his discretion by issuing an injunction that prevented the state labor commissioner from enforcing Assembly Bill 5, passed in 2019.

The legislation codified a Supreme Court ruling that created a strict test for determining whether a worker is an employee or independent contractor and created a presumption that truck drivers are employees unless terms of that test are met.

The California Trucking Association contended that the California law was pre-empted by a federal law that prohibits the states from imposing any restrictions relating to the price, route or service of motor carriers. The appellate panels majority, however, noted other decisions that upheld state labor laws even though they potentially increased costs.

The panel opinion, written by Judge Sanda Segal Ikuta, said laws of general applicability that affect a motor carriers relationship with its workforce, and compel a certain wage or preclude discrimination in hiring or firing decisions, are not significantly related to rates, routes or services.

The ruling may impose new employment practices and workers compensation liabilities on trucking companies and their insurance carriers. Labor advocates said the decision affirms Californias right to protect its workers.

The courts ruling confirms that Californias AB 5 law can be enforced against trucking companies that misclassify their workers  and it should be obvious to everyone that drivers who perform work for a trucking company are employees of that company, not independent contractors, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters said in a press release.

The California Trucking Association issued a statement suggesting that the fight might not be over. The association can ask for reconsideration or appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court.

The California Trucking Association will take any and all legal steps necessary to continue this fight on behalf of independent owner-operators and motor carriers operating in California, the CTA said in a statement.

The CTA filed suit after Gov. Gavin Newsom signed AB 5 into law in September 2019. The law borrowed from the 2018 California Supreme Court decision in Dynamex Operations West v. Superior Court that created the ABC test to determine whether a worker is an employee or an independent contractor.

In short, a California worker is an employee unless (A) he or she is free from the control and direction of the hirer, (B) performs work outside the scope of the employers regular scope of business or (C) is engaged in an independently established trade, occupation or business of the same nature as the work performed for the hirer.

The association and the truckers said in their complaint that motor carriers would face significant criminal and civil penalties is they continue to use owner-operators to serve customers because they can never meet part B of that test. The suit contends that enforcement of the law would violate the Federal Aviation Administration Authorization Act, the law that was passed by Congress in 1994 to put the trucking industry on par with aviation, which had been deregulated in the 1970s.

Two truck drivers who owned their own trucks  Ravinder Singh of Fremont and Thomas Odomof Madera  were named as plaintiffs, along with the CTA.

The California legislature has since revised the law to add exemptions to the ABC test for some industries, such as motion pictures, but lawmakers refused to create a loophole for the trucking industry. Voters last year approved a ballot initiative to create an exemption for gig workers who work for ride-hailing firms such as Lyft and Uber.

U.S. District Judge Roger T. Benitez agreed with the plaintiffs that the new law would violate the FAAAA and issued a temporary restraining order to block enforcement on Dec. 31, 2019, a day before the law was slated to take effect. He later imposed an injunction that continued the bar on enforcement.

The 9th Circuit panel lifted that injunction on Wednesday. Writing for the majority, Ikuta said that the Supreme Court has narrowly interpreted the language of the FAAAs prohibition against laws relating to motor carrier routes, prices or service. She noted that one can assert that everything is related to everything else. The courts attempt to draw a distinction between laws that are only tenuously related to rates, routes or services and laws that have a significant impact.

Ikuta noted that the 9th Circuit also ruled against a similar lawsuit that the California Trucking Association filed that sought to overturn laws that impacted trucking companies relationship with their workers.

We see no basis for departing from our precedent holding that a law increasing motor carriers employee costs, but not interfering at the point where the motor carrier provides a service to its customers, does not simply fall into the field of laws that Congress intended to preempt, the opinion says, citing a previous decision.

Judge Douglas P. Woodlock joined Ikuta in the majority opinion. Judge Mark J. Bennett dissented.

Bennett said that the ABC test so seriously impacts the services that can be offered by motor carries that it undermines the balance of state and federal power that was contemplated by the FAAAA.

It requires them to use employees rather than independent contractors as drivers, thereby significantly impacting CTA members relationships with their workers and the services that CTA members are able to provide to their customers, Bennett wrote.

A spokesman for the California Department of Labor said the department does not comment on ongoing litigation.

Topics Auto Personal Auto
Specialty broker Amwins Group said it has agreed to acquire Equisure, Inc., a Colorado-based specialist in insurance programs for horse and dog owners, trainers and organizations.

Equisure provides professional liability, general liability, and directors and officers liability for equine and canine clubs, associations and organizations. It also provides horse mortality/major medical, crime and additional coverages to meet the needs of horse and dog owners, trainers, clubs and shows.

Terms were not disclosed. Amwins expects the deal to close later this month.

The addition of Equisure will extend our underwriting divisions capabilities to a new, highly specialized segment of the market, said Scott M. Purviance, chief executive of Amwins.

Among Eqisures current partners are American Kennel Club, American Riding Instructors Association, Arabian Horse Association, Intercollegiate Horse Show Association, and US Equestrian.

Diane Lesher, president of Equisure, said the deal will expand Equisures reach to more customers and markets.

North Carolina-based Amwins offers more than 60 in-house programs and underwrites more than $1.7B in annual premium through its underwriting division. Based in Charlotte, N.C., the company operates through more than 125 offices globally and handles premium placements in excess of $22 billion annually.

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Topics Mergers Agencies Agribusiness
The National Alliance CISR (Certified Insurance Service Representatives) High School Program Expands into Birmingham School System

May 3, 2021, Austin, TX  The National Alliance today announces the expansion of the CISR High School Program into seven high schools in Birmingham, Alabama. The program was approved for accreditation with the Alabama Department of Education as a new Career and Technical Education Insurance Program of Study which helps students earn an insurance designation and an industry-based certification upon graduation.

Jack Elliot, CRC Group Chief Administrative Officer and CISR Board Chairman, shared this about the expansion:

Thirty years ago, when I was 15, I walked into an insurance agency in Birmingham because of a high school program. It feels extremely rewarding to bring the same kind of insurance courses that inspired my insurance career back to the state. The CISR High School program gives students excellent opportunities for future success.

School systems, teachers, family, and communities win when students are offered career education. The insurance industry also wins, as we work to fill positions over the next few years.

The high school program is being bolstered by local insurance agencies offering internships and entry-level career opportunities. Twenty-five letters of support were sent to the Department of Education to help facilitate this insurance pathway for Alabama high schools.

Bill Jacka, Jr., Executive Vice President at Alabama Independent Insurance Agents, Inc., and CISR High School program advocate, shared this:

Were excited to see years of hard effort pay off on this life-changing opportunity for Birminghams high-school youth. The CISR High School program will educate them, give them the chance to work in our field, and help them become adept insurance consumers.

Its vital that insurance agents and the community have an active role in shaping todays youth. We look forward to working with the school systems, faculty, and students to bring them excellent career options with immense potential.

The CISR High School program will be offered in August 2021 to all secondary education and high school campuses within Birminghams public school system.

For more information about the CISR High School Program and how you can bring it to your school, district, or community, visit www.scic.com/cisr-for-high-school.

The National Alliance for Insurance Education & Research is the nations premier provider of educational opportunities for insurance and risk management professionals. Learn about us at www.scic.com.

Media Contact:

Tasha Sheehan

Director of CISR High School Programs

512-349-3300

tsheehan@scic.com

Topics Education K 12
But it can, and does, donate to groups that seek to influence the political debate in a manner that aligns with Democrats and their agenda, including the Center for American Progress, a liberal think tank where Wyss sits on the board. The organization was started by John D. Podesta, a top White House aide to Presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama. A foundation that Wyss led as chairman and that has since merged with the Wyss Foundation paid Podesta as an adviser, and the two men remained close, according to associates.
Burma Amid Killing of Protesters, Myanmar Coup Leader Opens High-End Military-Run Hospital

Coup leader Snr-Gen Min Aung Hlaing opens the MoeKaung Treasure Maternal and Child Hospital in Yangon on Sunday. / Global New Light of Myanmar

In an apparent attempt to expand his military conglomerate, Myanmar coup leader Senior General Min Aung Hlaing has opened a new military-owned hospital in Yangon 91 days after seizing power from the countrys democratically elected government.

The opening of the new hospital came on Sunday, as the nation is still reeling from the brutality of his troops, who have killed more than 760 protesters across the country since the coup. On the same day, the regimes forces killed at least five people and arrested several others for protesting against the junta.

The newly opened MoeKaung Treasure Maternal and Child Hospital has become the second private high-end hospital owned by the military after Kan Tha Yar Hospital on the shore of Yangons Inya Lake.

The new hospital will be the latest addition to the holdings of the military cartel in the country, where the men in uniform have enriched themselves through businesses ranging from banking to brewery to jade mines and more. Most of them operate free of civilian oversight.

According to Justice for Myanmar, a covert group of activists campaigning for justice and accountability for the people in the country, Kan Thar Yar International Specialist Hospital, opened in 2017 by the senior general, is a private for-profit facility under the military conglomerate Myanmar Economic Corporation (MEC). Profits from the hospital are off-budget and the hospital operates without civilian oversight. The same is true of the newly opened MoeKaung Treasure Maternal and Child Hospital.

The maternity and child hospital is located in the leafy compound of the Military Documentation Office in Yankin Township.

The opening ceremony was joined by the coup leaders wife Daw Kyu Kyu Hla.

The senior general claimed the new hospital was built under his guidance to become an internationally recognized medical facility that could be relied on by citizens while promoting the private health care sector, according to military-owned Myawaddy TV. It said the hospital will provide maternal and child healthcare services such as in vitro fertilization procedures, storage of genetic items and genetic diagnostic work, among others.

The broadcaster quoted him as saying that, We will try to get a Joint Commission International certificate of international recognition [for the hospital].

Given mounting global sanctions, including from the US and EU, against himself and his regime, and the fact that the junta has been shunned by the international community for its atrocities against its own people, it is not clear how the junta plans to obtain such certification.

The putsch leader even said the new hospital aimed to act as a one-stop service center for patients with reasonable service charges.

However, given the room rateswhich include some that run as high as 100,000 kyats [US$64] per daythe cost of treatment at the new hospital is evidently far from reasonable, as the senior general claimed; the majority of the people in the country are struggling to get by, as the economy has collapsed since the February coup.

So far, its not clear to what extent Snr-Gen Min Aung Hlaing and his family are involved in the ownership of the hospital.

In March, the US imposed sanctions on two adult children of the junta leader in response to the coup and the militarys use of lethal force against peaceful protesters, calling for the reinstatement of the democratically elected civilian government.

The US Department of the Treasurys Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) announced sanctions on Aung Pyae Sone and Khin Thiri Thet Mon and six companies controlled by them.

The OFAC said the pair controlled a variety of business holdings that have directly benefited from their fathers position and malign influence.



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Burma China Donates 500,000 COVID-19 Vaccines to Myanmar Junta

Feature: An Air China flight landed on Sunday at Yangon International Airport carrying 500,000 COVID-19 vaccine doses from China. / Chinese Embassy in Myanmar

The Chinese government has handed over 500,000 doses of its COVID-19 vaccine to the junta, even as millions of civilians and health workers are boycotting the military regimes vaccine program.

The vaccines were donated by Chinas military, the Peoples Liberation Army, and arrived in Yangon on Sunday. They will be distributed to hospitals across the country, according to the office of the Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services.

While many countries have cut ties with the regimes leaders following their coup and the brutal killings of peaceful protesters, the Chinese Embassy in Yangon said that the donated vaccines demonstrated the Paukphaw [fraternal] friendship between China and Myanmar.

Chinas foreign minister Wang Yi promised to provide 300,000 doses of Chinas COVID-19 vaccine during a meeting with Myanmar State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi in January.

During that visit, Myanmar and China signed agreements on the economy, trade and technical cooperation and pushed to speed up the implementation of bilateral projects, including transport infrastructure projects under the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor (CMEC), which is part of Chinas ambitious Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

But thousands of social media users in Myanmar are skeptical of Chinas vaccine donation saying, No thanks, we dont need your vaccines, on posts on the Chinese embassys Facebook page.

Anti-Chinese sentiment has risen dramatically in Myanmar after China repeatedly blocked attempts by the United Nations Security Council to take action against the coup leaders.

One social media user wrote, Let me die with COVID-19, I wont inject any vaccines from China.

While millions of people are refusing to take COVID-19 jabs, China sent vaccines to the regime. It is very clear who they are supporting, another social media user wrote.

Chinese vaccines will only be for military officers and their cronies. Not for us. Even if they give it to us, we wont take it as long as we are being ruled by the regime, a social media user wrote.

Myanmars COVID-19 vaccine program has struggled under the military regime, with millions of civilians refusing the jab and thousands of health workers choosing to go on strike rather than work for the regime.

The National League for Democracy government started a nationwide COVID-19 vaccination program on January 27, with healthcare staff and volunteer medical workers the first to receive shots of the AstraZeneca vaccine donated by India.

Following the military takeover on Feb.1, almost all health workers have refused to receive the second jab of the vaccine as a protest against military rule.

The military-controlled MRTV has claimed that more than 1.5 million people in Myanmar received their first dose of the vaccine between January and April 23, while another 312,953 people received their second dose.

Military-controlled newspapers frequently publish photos of monks, military officers and government officials receiving the COVID-19 vaccine.

At first, the military regime offered the jab to people over the age of 64. But since late March, it has begun to offer the vaccine to anyone aged 18 and older after few people showed up at the vaccination center in Yangon, according to medical volunteers.

COVID-19 testing has been crippled since the coup with so many healthcare staff on strike. Under the civilian government, around 16,000 to 18,000 swab tests a day were carried out in January. But since the regimes coup in February, only around 1,500 to 2,000 tests per day are being administered.



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Burma Kachin Independence Army Shoots Down Myanmar Military Helicopter

Smoke from the crashed gunship is seen on Monday.

The Kachin Independence Army (KIA) shot down a Myanmar military helicopter as it was conducting air strikes in Momauk, Kachin State at around 10 a.m. on Monday, KIA information officer Colonel Naw Bu confirmed to The Irrawaddy.

It happened at around 10:20 a.m. today. The attack on the gunship scared away two fighter jets accompanying the helicopter, he said.

A local resident confirmed the crash. The aircraft crashed after being hit in its tail rotor. I saw smoke spewing from it. It landed near Konglaw Village. We have heard loud gunfire since morning along with continuous artillery fire. The situation is not good, said the witness.

Military tensions have been running high between Myanmars military junta and the ethnic Kachin armed group in Momauk since April 11, with the former using aircraft to bomb KIA outposts.

At around 2 a.m. on April 29 the KIA launched an artillery attack on Bhamo Airport, which military choppers use to take off and land.

The fighting in Momauk surrounds Alaw Bum base on a hill on the Chinese border. The hill, located on the route to the KIAs headquarters, is strategically important for gaining the military upper hand over areas between Bhamo and Myitkyina.

Myanmars military has been attempting to retake the hill since the KIA seized it from the former on March 25.

More than 5,000 people from 10 villages have been displaced by the fighting in Momauk.



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Burma Mother, 64, Beaten and Seized by Myanmar Junta Forces

Daw Mi Nge, mother of Ko Tin Htut Paing. / The Irrawaddy

Junta forces detained the mother of two activists after the security forces did not find the brothers at their home in Yangons North Okkalapa Township.

The security forces came for Ko Tin Htut Paing and his brother on Sunday and instead detained their 64-year-old mother, Daw Mi Nge, said Ko Tin Htut Paings sister.

There were large numbers of troops. They asked my mother to give them her phone. She refused. After they found it they beat her, said Daw Mi Nges daughter.

They stopped the beating only when a neighbor, who helps with household chores, said they were beating a woman who might be the same age as their mothers. They also took away belongings in two sacks, said the daughter, quoting the neighbor, who witnessed the beating.

The military regime has been providing food through ward administrators in some parts of Yangon, including Hlaing Tharyar and North Okkalapa, where it has killed dozens of peaceful anti-regime protesters.

Daw Mi Nge reportedly refused an offer of free food from the military-appointed ward administrator.

She lives with her 85-year-old mother and 65-year-old sister. The two are left in panic after Daw Mi Nge was detained.

The military has been hunting political activists and striking civil servants and detaining their relatives instead if they cannot find them.



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These disruptions are, for now, more a nuisance than serious problem. But they almost certainly presage more costly changes to come and, much more importantly, raise alarm bells about the growing crisis in some key salmon populations that is being driven, according to many scientists, by climate change and more competition for food. Decades after the Atlantic cod fisheries collapsed, concern is now mounting among experts that wild Pacific salmon could face a similar fate.
Burma Myanmar Junta Arrests HIV/AIDS Patients in Yangon

The NLD HIV/AIDS Center in East Dagon. / CJ

Junta security forces arrested HIV/AIDS patients at a HIV care center in Yangon on Sunday.

Three people on ART  HIV medication  and nine others were arrested at the center, which was founded and is run by elected lawmaker and National League for Democracy (NLD) member Daw Phyu Phyu Thin.

Those who are on medication are not in good health and if anything happens to them, the megalomaniac (junta) will be held responsible. I want to say that the clock is ticking for them. Prepare to be re-payed for what you have done and are doing to every person with grudges, wrote Daw Phyu Phyu Thin on her Facebook page.

The NLD AIDS Center (NAC) was opened in 2013 in Yangons East Dagon Township to provide care for needy HIV/AIDS patients.

Two of the three patients on medication are university students and the third is an elderly person, according to a NAC staffer.

I heard that [family members] are not allowed to visit them. They have to take their medication at 8pm every evening, he said.

Some of the nine other people detained are striking government employees from the Yangon Workers Hospital who were hiding at the health care center for political prisoners, which is affiliated with the NAC.

Daw Phyu Phyu Thin served as a Lower House lawmaker for Yangons Mingalar Taung Nyunt Township from 2012 until she and her fellow lawmakers were removed from office after the juntas Feb. 1 coup. She is also a member of the Committee Representing Pyidaungsu Hluttaw (CRPH), a body representing NLD lawmakers elected in the 2020 general election.

The junta has opened a number of cases including high treason against the long-time HIV/AIDS activist. Junta security forces previously raided Daw Phyu Phyu Thins office in Mingalar Taung Nyunt in March.

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Burma Myanmar Junta Just Buying Time: NUG Foreign Minister

NUG foreign minister Daw Zin Mar Aung. / The Irrawaddy

Daw Zin Mar Aung, foreign minister of the National Unity Government (NUG) formed by elected lawmakers to rival the military junta, recently talked to The Irrawaddy about the role of Asean in Myanmars political crisis, possible negotiations between the regime and the NUG, international pressure on the junta and the NUGs cooperation with ethnic armed organizations.

People have criticized the consensus reached at the Asean summit on Myanmar. What do you say as the NUGs foreign minister?

I didnt have high expectations for Aseans intervention. We have sent back the NUGs statement on the summit to Asean. Asean must design accountability mechanisms to handle when the Asean Charter and decisions reached at meetings are not followed.

Do Aseans demands meet the situation in the country? Do you think the intervention will work and help find a solution?

As a regional organization, Asean aims to establish a people-centered society for regional stability and sustainability. In principle, those aims are not much different from the aspirations of Myanmars people. The problem for Asean is that it cant handle dictators who do not care about the wishes of the people.

When Aseans special envoy visits Myanmar, perhaps he will be allowed to meet State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi. So do you think such a meeting will help find a solution?

Away from the meeting, the military council apparently opposes the consensus reached at the Asean summit and is buying time and reducing external pressure.

Is the NUG open to talks with the military council? Do you think that would work?

There must be certain preconditions if we are to consider negotiations. Talks should be the last resort. To hold negotiations, the situation must be fit for talks. But we are not against negotiations.

What the military council is doing [to the people] is preventing negotiations.

What action is the NUG taking to bring pressure from the international community, including the United Nations, on the military council?

We are using every possible means. We are working with foreign governments, expats from Myanmar, the leaders of the civil disobedience movement, regional organizations and the United Nations.

What actions is the NUG taking to win the support of the international community?

We have won the support of most democracies and some Asean countries are holding talks with the NUG regularly.

There have been fewer street protests and more guerrilla-style protests due to violent crackdowns by the junta forces. What is your assessment of the domestic situation?

Staging guerrilla protests is a very insightful response. People are using different forms of defiance against the military regime. Everyone is determined to go to the end as this fight must be won. Everyone is single-minded to root out the dictatorship.

How many of the ethnic armed organizations are cooperating with the NUG? Some powerful armed groups are not interested in cooperating. Why?

Cooperation with most of them comes only after we have reached an agreement that federalism will be exercised. We will build trust while working together. And some seemingly want to wait and see before deciding to cooperate. But, in principle, we dont have differences regarding federalism.

There have been calls for legal action against Senior General Min Aung Hlaing through the International Criminal Court and International Court of Justice. What actions are being taken?

We have consulted with international lawyers to file lawsuits against the military regime. The legal firm Volterra Fietta is officially acting for us and coordinates with the NUG.



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Reports are coming in that the IRS has released a new wave of stimulus check payments. This would be the seventh wave of Economic Impact Payments released by the American Rescue Plan. If you have not received your payment yet, keep an eye out on your bank and mailbox. The delivery might be coming in anytime soon.

Eligible individuals are entitled to receive monetary support from the government in the form of stimulus check payments. The IRS is currently sending out its third check. However, some individuals find their payments lacking from the amount promised. The problems include missing money even from your first stimulus check payment.

IRS is willing to pay you back any missing money from the first and second stimulus check payments. It is also ready to provide monetary support to individuals who have not updated their tax returns to reflect on their current income status. If you have a new baby born around 2020, IRS will also enlist it as a new dependent. However, to receive any of this money, you have to file a Recovery Rebate Credit. You also have to know precisely how much money the IRS owes you when filing.

IRS Breakdown of the 7th Wave Events

Fox8 reported a quick overview of the events involving these stimulus payment accounts. If you are eligible for any of these circumstances, take note as it might result in the government owing you more money than you received.

The seventh wave of stimulus payments is estimated to be at approximately $4.3 billion.

Over $3 billion of this payment went to eligible individuals who updated their information by filing a recent tax return.

This batch includes ongoing payments for people who received money based on their 2019 tax returns instead of the 2020 tax returns. Approximately $1.3 billion of the value will be used as "plus-up" payments.

The seventh wave of payments included $2.5 billion by direct deposit and $1.8 billion by paper checks.

Read Also: Tax Refund 2021 Tracker: 2 Online Tools to See Refund Status While Waiting for Your Stimulus Check

File Your 2020 Tax Return Online

The IRS strongly recommends you to file your 2020 tax return to avail the monetary support listed above. Filing your 2020 Tax return also gives you benefits to file the 2020 Recovery Rebate Credit, Child Tax Credit and Earned Income Tax Credit.

Luckily, IRS also made an article to help you file your Federal Taxes online and for free. Head to the IRS website and scroll at the bottom to see available online programs.

IRS would help you file your tax returns through their partnered sites. Depending on your income earned, you can choose "IRS Free File Program" or "Free File Fillable Forms."

IRS Free File Program is an option for individuals earning $72,000 and below. The program does your state tax filing for you, with some other offers, and provides a guided preparation for filing other benefits after answering some simple questions. This program would do all the math calculations for you.

Free File Fillable Forms is an option for individuals earning above $72,000. This program gives you free electronic forms to fill out and basic calculations with limited guidance to other benefits.



Related Article: Fourth Stimulus Check Tracker: Updates on New Payment, Tools, Calculators for Proposed $2000 Relief
Huntsville, TX (77320)

Today

Cloudy skies this morning will become partly cloudy this afternoon. High 93F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph..

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A new study by ACA Research released by Mimecast shows that 21% of workers experienced a privacy incident last year and reveals that one in five (19%) did not report it to their employer. The proliferation of privacy issues, Mimecast cites, is due to the increased use of communication tools. The data suggests firms need to be tougher to make privacy a priority.

Coinciding with National Privacy Awareness Week (May 3-7), Mimecast released findings of an Australian-based survey by ACA Research, showing 21% of workers surveyed have experienced a privacy incident over the last year.

However, the data reveals that almost one in five (19%) respondents who experienced a privacy incident did not report it to their employer, with 38% of them stating they didnt think it was that important when asked why.

Privacy incidents include emailing personal or confidential work information to the wrong recipient, falling victim to a malicious email that allowed unauthorised access to work systems or data, and losing devices containing personal information.

According to Garrett OHara, Mimecast Principal Technical Consultant, the data signifies more work is needed to make privacy a priority and better protect company and personal information at a time when cybersecurity issues and malicious activity are more common than ever.

OHara continues: In 2020, people were adapting to huge changes in work practices due to the pandemic, so its not surprising that some basics in cybersecurity and privacy slipped.

He warns: Even so, not reporting a privacy issue is inexcusable, especially when you consider the significant security risk from disclosing personal information and professional data. Theres also the potential financial loss to businesses and individuals when privacy incidents go unchecked and remedies arent put in place.

The data also shows that while 74% of Australians say they take privacy seriously and do enough to protect data in their organisation, their behaviour doesnt always reflect this:

 Almost half (47%) of the respondents are downloading information onto personal devices

 A third of employees dont always report strange or suspicious looking emails to their employer. This awareness is not consistent across the country: 75% of Queenslanders say they would always report suspicious looking emails and not open them, and in New South Wales/Australian Capital Territory (NSW/ACT) this figure drops to 60%

 39% of Australian workers are careless when it comes to avoiding public Wi-Fi and only using secure networks for work purposes.

Use of communication tools exploding

The data says 82% of respondents are using collaboration tools like online chat and video and file sharing more than they were 12 months ago, contributing to increased privacy risks for companies and staff.

This even further increases the need for Australian businesses to prioritise privacy, says OHara.

Email is still an important communication tool for businesses, but many workers now use chat, multiple messaging apps, video and other solutions, so the potential for privacy slip-ups is increasing across multiple platforms, he explains.

OHara believes security awareness trainingand the right kindis critical. With a quarter admitting they only receive training once a year, and over a third skipped training, he says theres a risk what we call unstructured datalike that contained in messages from one employee to anothercan find itself on the wrong side of a privacy incident.

OHara cites the State of Email Security 2021 report, asserting businesses need a stricter and more relatable approach to privacy training and processes. This report shows 32% of Australian IT leaders feel their employees naivete about cybersecurity is their biggest challenge and 68% think its either likely or extremely likely their organisation will suffer a negative business impact from an email-borne attack in the next 12 months.

Industries, businesses, and states most at risk according to the ACA research:

 Mid-sized businesses (100-999 employees) performed the worst, with 28% of employees in mid-sized organisations saying they had been involved in a privacy incident. Still, 14% of respondents working for organisations with 1,000+ employees had been involved in a privacy issue.

 Industries whose workers had the highest rate of privacy issues were manufacturing (52%), followed by education, professional services, and health care and social assistance (all at 15%).

 Even though they trained regularly, 82% of respondents in manufacturing have skipped privacy training, compared with 42% in professional services, 24% in healthcare and social assistance and 23% in finance.

 Over one in three NSW/ACT employees know a colleague that has experienced a privacy incident in the past 12 months. This reduces to around one in five for employees in South Australia and the Northern Territory.

Advice for businesses

Mimecast advises to make training relevant and engaging. The email security company also recommends a combination of tools.

With 90% of all cybersecurity incidents being a result of human error, regular, and impactful training is essential. Training should also be compulsory, the Mimecast suggests, but if organisations make it interesting people will be less likely to want to skip it.

10% of people didnt report a privacy incident because they thought it would jeopardise their job, while 24% felt embarrassed. Fostering a culture of collaboration rather than punishment can encourage employees to speak up and create a more privacy-aware environment.

Security threats, working conditions, and technology are constantly changing. Organisational approaches to cybersecurity must keep pace. Cybersecurity training models and the technology used to protect against increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks need to be updated for the COVID-19 work environment.

Here is Mimecast's great infographic:
Researchers at Monash University are applying Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology and game-design practices to reduce spray drift from agricultural pesticides, minimising the negative impact on neighbouring crops and wildlife - and potentially revolutionising" cotton farming.

Monash says that while there is currently no way of receiving immediate feedback to indicate if spray set up and operation is correct, the revolutionising agricultural spray applications for the Cotton Research and Development Corporation (CRDC) project aims to address this challenge.

According to Monash spray drift cost the Australian cotton industry more than $18 million in crop losses in 2018 alone, and that with spray drift and the unwanted movement of pesticides are a global environmental issue.

Pesticides are used in farming practices to protect crops against pests, weeds and diseases, and help ensure the Australian agricultural industry remains productive, profitable and sustainable.

According to Monash, the movement of pesticides beyond the target crop - termed spray drift - is undesirable as it results in wastage and unwanted exposure to non-target areas.

The partnership between the Faculty of Information Technology (IT) at Monash University, BARD AI, PentaQuest, and AgriSci, is applying technology solutions that support informed spraying operations and better decision-making to reduce the impacts of spray drift and improve overall agricultural productivity, profitability and sustainability.

Faculty of IT Interim Dean, Professor Ann Nicholson, says the project is currently developing cutting-edge solutions that combine AI technology, information and psychology to tackle the challenge of spray drift.

Information alone does not change behaviour and the use of advanced technology doesnt ensure the adoption of new platforms by farmers. By incorporating game-like design applications which drive better training and engagement outcomes, together with AI-driven decision support modelling, were able to deliver continuous adoption and accurate decision support that informs farmers appropriately, Professor Nicholson said.

Monash says the gamification mechanics of the platform will encourage behavioural change by incentivising farmers through community participation, recognition of compliance as well as real-time risk assessments regarding their current spraying practices.

The AI component of the project will rely on Bayesian Networks, which provide a rigorous probabilistic methodology for modelling real world problems. This technology will deliver decision support to inform farmers in real-time about the potential risks and consequences of their spraying decisions.

Founder of BARD AI, Ross Pearson explained that this solution focuses on spray drift in a broad acre setting, but its potential and applications are much greater.

Our solution combines leading-edge thinking and technology in behavioural science and probabilistic modelling to deliver an engaging experience for farmers that supports them through better decision-making, said Pearson said.

Representing SOS Gwydir, a group of like-minded growers, agronomists, resellers, consultants and spray contractors who want to eradicate spray drift, Byron Birch explains the need to engage the agricultural community and encourage practice change that reduces the occurrence of off-target spraying and safer spraying techniques.

"Off target spray drift is like cancer from passive smoking. It is the invisible cloud that can destroy another farmers' livelihood down wind. Education, technology and regulation are all needed to fight the problem," said farmer and consultant Byron Birch.

Mary O'Brien from Mary O'Brien Rural Enterprises, works as a private consultant conducting spray application and drift management workshops around Australia.

OBrien has travelled to Canada and the United States, teaching and working with farmers and researchers on spray application and has worked extensively with spray contractors and farmers in Australia.

Its important to deliver spray training in a practical and accessible format for applicators. This facilitates better engagement and learning outcomes, and more importantly, leads to better adoption and uptake of best practice," said O'Brien said.

The project received a Business Research and Innovation Initiative (BRII) grant of close to $100,000 earlier this year and will be eligible to apply for a grant of up to $1 million to develop a prototype or proof of concept later this year.

BARD AI, which is a spin-off from a US Government funded research project led by Monash University, has been supported by Monashs Enterprise portfolio by establishing commercialisation pathways with CSIROs ON Program, the Monash Generator Accelerator Program, as well as connectivity to the agricultural sector through the Monash AgTech LaunchPad.
Sales of smartphones in the US grew by 19% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2021, the technology analyst firm Counterpoint Research says, adding that this growth was helped greatly by 5G offerings from Apple, Samsung and OnePlus.

More than 53 million 5G devices had been sold by the end of the quarter since 5G devices started being offered in 2019, the company said.

For the first quarter alone, 5G smartphone sales made up 57% of the total sales, with stimulus cheques, an uptick in vaccinations and fewer pandemic restrictions boosting Americans' confidence.

Compared to the final quarter of 2020, there was the usual contraction in the first quarter of 2021 as happens after a strong holiday period. Additionally, there was an iPhone 12 launch in the final three months of 2020.

Senior research analyst Maurice Klaehne said: The beginning of 2021 saw continued sales for the iPhone 12 as demand spilled over from its late launch in Q4 2020. This has since tapered off.

"Samsung also refreshed its S series line-up with the S21 in February. In March, we began seeing the pre-paid market grow as the third round of stimulus money and a delayed tax season started having their effect.

"The 5G smartphone market stalled as more pre-paid customers were purchasing LTE devices which were heavily discounted due to tax season sales. 5G smartphones were also discounted, but they have not moved down to more affordable price tiers yet, causing limited adoption.

"OnePlus was the exception to this trend in pre-paid. The OEM grew its share in Metro to double digits through both the N100 and N10 5G.

US Mobile Devices and Carrier Strategies director Jeff Fieldhack added: Overall 5G ASPs (average selling prices) climbed above US$800 (A$1037) in Q1 2021 again due to the prolonged demand for premium devices in early 2021.

"However, Samsung introduced the mid-tier A32 5G and A42 5G in April which we expect will help further drive down overall 5G ASPs. We believe 5G prices will drop below US$250 in H2 2021.

"Qualcomms 400 series Snapdragon processor and MediaTeks 700 and 800 Dimensity series chips will help achieve these price drops. LGs exit from the market is creating a major opportunity for other OEMs such as Samsung, Motorola, OnePlus and TCL, and carriers are expecting more devices to come with 5G connectivity in lower price tiers. Overall, by the end of Q4 2021, we estimate that 5G smartphone sales will reach 80% of total sales.

Commenting on the US market outlook, senior research analyst Hanish Bhatia said: The US economy is looking very promising. Over 23% of the total population is fully vaccinated and states are loosening restrictions on businesses.

"Apple also had another record-breaking quarter, with North America revenues growing 35% year-on-year. All these factors point towards renewed strength in the smartphone market demand and 5G adoption.

"However, we are also watching for component shortages and how this might affect the market going forward. Inventory has been very tight, but supply has been able to meet demand so far.

"Bigger OEMs such as Apple and Samsung seem to be less affected, but smaller Tier 2 and Tier 3 OEMs may feel the impact to a greater extent going forward. Apple has given guidance that component shortages will affect its Mac and iPad lineups as supply will not be able to meet demand.
Despite numerous false alarms from security firms in the past  which have been enthusiastically spread by technology writers  it still appears that all a security firm or group of researchers has to do to gain some headlines is to write a post mentioning Linux and malware in the same sentence.

On 28 April, a Chinese research group NetLab published details about what it claimed was a "long live secret backdoor with 0 VT detection". The word Linux was not in the headline, but once one read the first paragraph, there it was in bold text: "A close look at the sample revealed it to be a backdoor targeting Linux X64 systems, a family that has been around for at least 3 years." [emphais as in original]

Some basic questions were not answered  and they were asked by someone who posted a response to the blog.

This user, who goes by the name John Mellor, asked: "Anyone can write an executable to do nefarious things, but what is the entry path onto the system? What compromise is used to install it? Who uses that package and has it misconfigured to allow this executable to be installed? Without this key information, this admittedly excellent analysis of the payload is useless. What is the CVE number?"

I havesimilar questions in the past when there have been random claims about malware that runs on Linux. But these queries do not in any way dissuade the normal suspects from hyping up such blog posts.

Both Bleeping Computer, which has plenty of form in this regard, and ZDNet, again a publication that has written similar stories, gave the blog post a boost, without bothering to question anything.

There are certainly some questions hanging over this blog post. I wrote to the company that posted it on Thursday, asking how the malware gained entry to a Linux system, but have not heard back.

This query was made because quite often excited reporters conclude that entry to a Linux system through some third-party software means that it is Linux malware. But then Linux refers to the kernel and core utilities. And Linux can be stripped down to a very lean install, unlike Windows where the whole caboodle has to be installed.

As I have written more times than I care to mention, an experienced researcher can write the most intricate script, which will do all kinds of dastardly things on a system running Linux  once it is installed on the system with root privileges. But if there is no infection vector, then that script is useless.

That's a point which the gentleman named Mellor made, using much better prose than I could ever write.

There are a few other curiosities in this blog post. First, the point that there have been zero detections of the script on VirusTotal. For the uninitiated, VT is a database owned by Google; something that is suspected of being malware can be uploaded to this database and it will be scanned by a number of anti-virus engines. If any of them have determined it to be malware, then that will appear in the results of the scan.

The fact that this script  which has been given the fancy name RotaJakiro  was not detected could well mean that others have looked at it and, not seeing any infection vector, decided that it was a waste of time uploading it to VT for a scan.

Again, while the Netlab researchers claimed the script supported 12 functions and three were executed through plugins, they confessed: "Unfortunately, we have no visibility to the plugins, and therefore do not know its true purpose." Then why write this post at all?

Another statement that could have been queried was the fact that the researchers claimed this script had some similarities with a botnet known as Torii. But then given the fact that mountains of malware is out there, with much of it having common code, how much validity does such a claim have?

The Netlab researchers claimed that commands were re-used in both Torii and RotaJakiro; but then they cited many common commands which even an ordinary Linux user would utilise, as seen below:

The first command would only be needed on a system which has SELinux and only Red Hat Enterprise Linux or Fedora systems have it as part of the default install.

Veteran Linux admin Russell Coker told iTWire: "Most people who use SELinux don't have a need to use semanage, as the default configuration works reasonably well and audit2allow to make new policy snippets is all that most users who need to change things need. So semanage isn't known by many people and it's also a complex command."

The last mentioned, initctl, is a command used with Upstart which is now in maintenance mode; the last release was in 2014. The other commands are all common.

At the end of this long blog post  which looks very impressive given the amount of code that is scattered within  the researchers had this to say: "While this concludes our analysis of RotaJakiro, the real work is far from over, and many questions remain unanswered: 'How did RotaJakiro spread, and what was its purpose?', 'Does RotaJakiro have a specific target?' We would love to know if the community has relevant leads."

Publishing half-work of this kind does not in any way burnish the reputation of a security firm.
At least five US Government agencies have been breached in the latest attack aimed at the government, an official at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency says.

"CISA is aware of at least five federal civilian agencies who have run the Pulse Connect Secure Integrity Tool and identified indications of potential unauthorised access," deputy executive assistant director of Cybersecurity, Matt Hartman, said in a statement sent to CNN.

"We are working with each agency to validate whether an intrusion has occurred and will offer incident response support accordingly."

The CISA warned government agencies to guard against vulnerabilities in Pulse Connect Secure products as they were being exploited since 31 March.

The CISA said it had assisted multiple agencies which had been hit by attackers using any of the four flaws disclosed about the products.

"The threat actor is using this access to place webshells on the Pulse Connect Secure appliance for further access and persistence," the advisory said.

"The known webshells allow for a variety of functions, including authentication bypass, multi-factor authentication bypass, password logging, and persistence through patching."

On 21 April, security vendor FireEye had warned about the same vulnerabilities after they were disclosed by the vendor, Ivanti.
Students from seven NSW universities will attend NSW Police Headquarters in Parramatta on Thursday 6 May 2021 to tackle cybercrime challenges in the inaugural Cybercrime Think Tank rolled out by the NSW Police Force.

Teams will be given 10 minutes to present their ideas to a panel of leaders in law enforcement and technology on how real cybercrime challenges can be solved. They will present on two challenges:

How can we identify the ultimate beneficiaries of proceeds of crime received as cryptocurrency?

How can individuals identify their vulnerabilities to cyber-attacks and make themselves more resilient?

The seven universities involved are  Charles Sturt University, Southern Cross University, University of New England, The University of Newcastle, Western Sydney University, Macquarie University, and University of Technology Sydney.

The event is on Thursday 6 May 2021, 8.30am to 4pm at NSW Police Force Headquarters in Parramatta.

The panellists are:

Deputy Commissioner David Hudson, Investigations and Counter Terrorism

Gordon Dunsford, Chief Information & Technology Officer (CITO) and Executive Director Digital Technology & Innovation

Detective Superintendent Matt Craft, Commander of the Cybercrime Squad

Jenna Bradley, Acting Director, Strategic Delivery and Innovation, Office of the Commissioner

Also present on the day will be:
I have heard from many members of the Schuylkill County community about the serious allegations leveled against Schuylkill County Commissioner George Halcovage, Argall said in statement Monday morning. Residents, business leaders and other county officials from both sides of the aisle alike were horrified to read the details of the lawsuit filed against him by four Schuylkill County women. An investigation by the Schuylkill County solicitor and human resource office determined that if Commissioner Halcovage was an employee, they would have recommended that he be terminated.
Earlier this year, Aussie Broadband switched to Optus for its mobile service, and now it has launched 5G plans, a near doubling of data, and for a limited time, a two month free of the Optus network, all in service of giving customers more bang for their buck.

Buckle up kids, the "bloody good" telco Aussie Broadband has just opened up an upgraded version its mobile plan offering, which not only includes a significant revamp of its mobile services, but also the introduction of Samsung S21 smartphones expected to be released later this month.

The news follows Aussies recent decision to switch mobile network supplier from Telstra to Optus Wholesale.

Matthew Kusi-Appauh, the GM of Marketing and Corporate Strategy, said customers who bundle their internet and mobile plans can get even better value for money.

Kusi-Appauh added: Were very excited to launch our new mobile plans on the Optus network today and to introduce completely new 5G plans for the first time. We believe in giving our customers more bang for their buck  so were offering increased data to customers who subscribe to both our internet (NBN or OptiComm) and mobile services.

The telco said it is also offering new and existing customers a 2 months free trial of the Optus network - for a limited time only.

Around 20,000 existing mobile customers are expected to migrate onto the Optus network by October 2021.

One of the key components is that were going to be able to bring lots more features to customers. For example, the price of data will be far more competitive.

Weve effectively almost doubled the data on most of our plans. Data sharing and WiFi calling will also be available for free on all 4G plans, Kusi-Appauh continued.

So, what else is new?

New bundled plans

Were told the $29 plans now include an additional 15GB, bringing the total to 25GB. Aussie is offering a new 100GB of data for only $69 per month, which offers an additional 20GB of data for the same price. All plans come with no lock-in contracts, which means customers are free to cancel at any time without penalty fees.

Under the new Optus deal, Aussie customers will be given full access to the Optus 4G and 5G networks to provide voice and mobile data, with the Optus wholesale network 4G coverage reaching 98.5% of the Australian population.

The company also plans to offer 4G internet backup for both residential and business customers in the next few months.

New 5G plans and handsets

Prices for the 5G plans start at $39 per month for 10GB of data, rising to $69 per month for 80GB. Aussie is also launching a range of new devices later this month, including the new Samsung Galaxy S21 series. The devices will be available upfront or bundled with the customers mobile services.

More information about Aussie Broadbands new plans can be found here.

Here's a screenshot of the new 5G plans:

Here's a screenshot of the 4G plans:
With the Communications Workers Union (CWU) calling for a National Senate Inquiry into what it calls the "shambolic NBN network", over 100 subcontractors arrived outside the NBN Co North Sydney office to "protest against the NBN Co's shambolic management and pyramid contracting scheme that's leaving workers struggling to make ends meet."

The CWU is the Communications Workers Union. It is the Communications Division of the Communications Electrical and Plumbing Union (CEPU), and says it "represents all workers in the telecommunications, information technology and postal industries."

The CWU has reported "hundreds of technicians working on the NBN project around the country have this morning decided to walk off the job over cuts to their pay rates, a debacle causing chaos in job bookings and scheduling, pyramid sham contracting arrangements and overall poor treatment.

"Over 100 subcontractors who met in Sydney this morning are currently outside the NBN Co North Sydney office as part of a convoy to protest against the NBN Cos shambolic management and pyramid contracting scheme thats leaving workers struggling to make ends meet.

"CEPU National President Shane Murphy is calling on the Minister for Communications, Minister Paul Fletcher, to announce a Senate Inquiry into the NBN rollout and the issues that are plaguing it."

CEPU National President Shane Murphy says The mismanagement of Australias NBN network continues to be left unaddressed and workers have had enough.

The time has come - we need Minister Fletcher to urgently announce a national inquiry into the NBN so we get can these issues fixed.

The NBN rollout has been plagued with issues from day one, and workers wont put up with it any longer. NBN Co needs to scrap their dodgy pyramid contracting model, improve pay rates and ditch the shonky booking app.

Subcontractors are being forced to sign new contracts with NBN Co Delivery partners which cuts their pay, all whilst NBN executives paid themselves $77m in bonuses during the pandemic. Its infuriating.

These NBN Co subcontractors have continued to keep the countrys internet services connected during the covid-19 pandemic, turning up for work day in, day out. They deserve better from NBN Co.

These technicians are highly skilled workers  yet because of the NBNs pyramid style sham contracting scheme, its the executives and middle-men who are profiting from Australias NBN while the people doing the work are getting get ripped off and consumers continue to suffer with substandard connections."

The CWU notes the NBN has been "plagued by ongoing issues, with technicians the latest to feel the effects with pay cuts and a work dispatch system that is taking subbies up to 3 hours to book work off  threatening to send their small business to the wall, whilst leaving customers waiting for technicians to turn up to their next job."

Murphy continued: Subcontractors are fed up with cuts to their pay and a shambolic booking system which is leaving subcontractors and NBN customers high and dry.

Workers want the NBN Co to ditch the dodgy Work app, increase technician pay not cut it & commit to scrapping the pyramid subcontracting rorts. Muprhy concluded.
Today

Wind increasing. A mix of clouds and sun. High 97F. Winds ESE at 5 to 10 mph, becoming WNW and increasing to 20 to 30 mph. Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph.

Tonight

Clear skies. Low near 65F. Winds WNW at 15 to 25 mph. Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph.

Tomorrow

Except for a few afternoon clouds, mainly sunny. High 99F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph.
MiMi-Sandra of Fort Worth, born 7 September 1945 in Jacksonville to Joe Selman Gore and Jeffie Gwendolyn (Lazenby) Gore. Preceded by her parents and five siblings. Survived by her husband, daughters, four siblings, nieces and nephews.




Donate Now As a public service during this pandemic, the Jewish News is providing free, unlimited access to all articles. Jewish News is a nonprofit publication that is owned by the community and relies on community support.
Teton County Reporter

Previously the Scene editor, Billy Arnold made the switch to the county beat where he's interested in exploring Teton County as a model for the rest of the West. When he can, he still writes about art, music and whatever else suits his fancy.
Tom Hallberg covers a little bit of everything, from skiing to long-form feature stories. A Teton Valley, Idaho, transplant by way of Portland and Bend, Oregon, he spends his time outside work writing fiction, splitboarding and climbing.
U.S. President Joe Biden has completed a long-awaited review of North Korea policy, which "will not focus on achieving a grand bargain, nor will it rely on strategic patience," White House spokeswoman Jen Psaki told reporters. Last week, Biden said in his first address to Congress that North Korea's and Iran's nuclear programs are "serious threats" to American and world security and pledged to deal with them through "diplomacy and stern deterrence."

Biden understood that his predecessor Donald Trump's engagement with North Korea through summits was a publicity stunt. But at the same time he does not want to be criticized for looking the other way by repeating his former boss Barack Obama's "strategic patience" with the North.

But "diplomacy and stern deterrence" is in effect the same approach that has gotten the U.S. government nowhere for the last 30 years. The fact that the Biden administration was unable to come up with anything different after a 100-day policy review shows just how complicated the North Korean nuclear question is. As expected, North Korea responded with one of its usual tirades, accusing the U.S. of making a "big blunder" and warning of a "very grave situation." The North is threatening to test launch long and short-range nuclear missiles unless the U.S. eases sanctions or decreases its troop presence in South Korea. Already, the U.S. and South Korea have halted annual joint military exercises to appease North Korea, but to no avail. If the North does not get what it wants, it always resorts to provocation, so close cooperation between the U.S. and its allies is needed more than ever.

When asked if it had discussed its new North Korea policy with its allies, the White House said Japan's "input" was reflected, but there was no mention of South Korea, which is the immediate target of North Korea's nuclear ambitions. Two months ago, a joint statement issued by the defense ministers of the U.S. and South Korea made no mention of denuclearization, nor of human rights, which Biden supports fervently. In contrast, a joint statement issued by the defense ministers of the U.S. and Japan contained the words "complete denuclearization of North Korea" and referred to Japanese citizens abducted by the North. The Biden administration must have realized that President Moon Jae-in is a lost cause and just wants another publicity stunts with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. That is why he has been effectively neutralized.

Biden of course faces more pressing concerns than the antics of a small, mad country on the other side of the world. There are growing calls in Washington to ease sanctions in exchange for a nuclear arms freeze to buy some peace and quiet for a while, since it is too difficult to achieve complete denuclearization. If Biden is thinking about that option, which would effectively make the North a recognized nuclear state, South Koreans could see their worst nightmare realized.

Kim believes hanging on to his nuclear weapons is his only hope of remaining in power. That attitude has not changed since the days of former his father Kim Jong-il. Hopes of denuclearization are fading rapidly. Moon will sit face to face with Biden on May 21. He needs to let the U.S. leader know that his goal is the complete scrapping of North Korea's nuclear weapons, not another publicity stunt.


Insight Global has acknowledged it mishandled sensitive data and apologized. In a statement last week, the company said it became aware April 21 that employees had set up the unauthorized Google accounts for sharing information. Insight Global said it took steps to secure the information and that it was unaware of the misuse of the information involved.
Joplin, MO (64801)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 88F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

Some clouds. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low around 70F. Winds light and variable.
MARTINSBURG  While no official action was taken yet to adopt a new mission, vision statement and core beliefs for the Berkeley County distric
Opinion Columnist

Chris Powell has worked for the Journal Inquirer since 1967, first as a reporter, then as an editor, and now as a columnist. He was managing editor from 1974 until retiring from that position in 2018.
If the goal of partisan gerrymandering is for one party to do everything possible to secure as many seats as it can, the way to do that is by packing and cracking districts. Packing crams voters of the rival party into a few districts to give that party overwhelming wins. Cracking spreads members of the rival party across a large number of districts so their votes dont matter as much.
During session, Eric can be found at the Capitol in Hartford, reporting the information that readers want and need to know. For insights and updates on legislation, politicians, committees, and commissions that affect the entire state of Connecticut, follow Eric on Twitter: @BednerEric.
In the past few days, one of the most fast-trending slogans on Gambian social media sites has been legal junglers. This is to name the legal minds who helped entrenched the 1994-2017 military regime of Yahya Jammeh, and it refers to the Junglers, the feared hit-squad operating on the orders Jammeh.

The highest qualification among soldiers who took power in Gambia in July 1994 was a A level held by Edward Singhateh, the number 2 of the coup makers. Soon, these men would nevertheless appear more sophisticated in grasping more power, politically and legallyaided by a plethora of decrees they enacted.

In the past week, two prominent Gambian lawyers who reportedly had significant influence on the drafting of some of these decreesFafa Edrissa Mbai and Amie Bensoudafaced the Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission (TRRC), a body charged with investigating human rights violations under Jammehs rule.

Ruling by decree

Mbai was the juntas first Justice Minister who stayed on with them for six months while Amie Bensouda was their first Solicitor General. A veteran lawyer, Mbai had already been Gambias Justice Minister from May 1982 to June 1984. His appointment under the new military junta made him one of few civilians in that government. He didnt last long. By February 1995, he was fired. But during his time as Minister, he was also sitting in the Executive Council, a body that effectively replaced the parliament in making laws.

The Council started to issue a pile of decrees, a large number of which were giving the military leaders sweeping powers. Mbai participated in the creation of the decrees at three levels: drafting them at the ministry, deliberating on them in the cabinet and passing them in the Executive Council.

Before the TRRC, the lawyer only took collective responsibility for decrees 7 to 25 that were made while he was in office. However, he denied playing any critical role in their drafting and passing. Soldiers believed, against better advice, that decrees were the most effective way of helping them achieve their objectives, he argued, adding he even earned the nick-name Uncle human rights from the Junta members. They were hell-bent on running on anyone who stood their way and they did. The tragedy is that the initial intentions they held changed when they tested political power and their objectives changed for the worst.

Dialogue of the deaf

Mbai claimed he had a fringe role in the scheme of things. Before the Commission, it turned out a little different. While on official visit in Britain in December 1994 to ask the former British colony to lift a ban on The Gambia and allow tourists to come back to the West African country, he was interviewed on the BBC. There is no mess, he then said of the juntas actions. I think Captain Jammehs mission is to cleanse up the mess that has been created and perpetuated for over 30 years. He eloquently defended the military regime and spoke of their desire to ensure the reign of rule of law in the country.

In all honesty, do these decrees really reflect a respect for rule of law? asked the TRRC Lead counsel Essa Faal.

These decrees were the laws of the state at that time.

That does not answer my question. The question is whether these decrees would reflect the respect for rule of law?

These decrees provided that there will be a commission of inquiry.

Can you answer the question, sir? repeated Faal three more times.

I am not defending the decrees, Mbai dithered around.

But you defended them in your interview. You said those things were established to demonstrate our respect for the rule of law.

No, I did not say that. These decrees were the laws at the time.

Were they just laws?

They were good laws and bad laws.

Faal tried again, in vain, before making one last attempt.

My question is: would this be the standard of good laws in any society?

If these decrees violate human rights, then they are not good laws, answered Mbai.

Exactly, and these decrees violate human rights.

Then they are not good laws.

The long-lasting impact of the juntas decrees

At the time of the coup on July 22, 1994, a popular Gambian corporate lawyer Amie Bensouda, then the Solicitor General, was abroad. Back into the country, she was effectively in charge of the Justice Ministry for 2 weeks prior to the appointment of Mbai as Justice Minister. Her former boss Hassan Jallowtoday Gambias Chief Justicewas in military detention with a number of top officials of the toppled civilian government. On July 29, under Bensoudas watch, Decree No. 1 was issued by the junta, suspending parts of the 1970 constitution and with it, the parliament. The Armed Forces Provisional Ruling Council shall have power to make laws for the peace, order and good government of The Gambia with respect to any matter, states Decree No. 1.

The decrees also gave the junta judicial powers, in some cases ousting the courts jurisdiction to even question them. The validity of this or any other decree shall not be questioned in any court of law, states Decree No. 1.

Six months into this regime, Mbai was dismissed, together with Amie Bensouda. A Commission was established by the Junta and headed by Omar Alghali, a Sierra Leonean lawyer who would later become the Chief Justice. It found Mbai to owe the state 1.5 million dalasi (about 24,000 in todays euros) in tax arrears. Mbai filed a suit at the countrys Supreme Court in November 1996, challenging the findings of the Commission. But as fate would have it, his Decree No. 11, as amended by Decree No. 25, which said no court can question a commission established by the military, caught up with him. My case was stroke out by the Court, [which said] that it had no jurisdiction. The jurisdiction of the Court was ousted by the Decree. I felt very bad, Mbai testified.

Thereafter, the Inspector General of Police was ordered to seize and sell Mbais assets. The proceeds would go to settle his tax obligations. He was served an eviction notice from his property in Pipeline, a middle-class neighborhood about 10 minutes drive from Banjul, Gambias capital city. For four years, he would go on to stay with his son at the Fajara Hotel, owned by a friend of his.

Several former officials of the deposed government were also evicted the same way. Until today they could not all have their assets back. Another part of Decree No. 11 states that any order, ruling, finding of fact, seizure, sale or alienation of property or penalty imposed by any commission of inquiry established by the junta shall not be questioned or reversed by any Court or other authority under this Constitution or any other law. A lot of those decrees would later make their way into the new countrys constitution that came into effect in 1997. They remain part of Gambias laws to date. A 2020 attempt to abrogate the 1997 Constitution was short-lived after the draft failed to get parliamentary approval. The 1997 Constitution, and its infamous decrees, is still the law of the land.

You became a victim of your own creation

Mbai showed the Commission a letter from the national revenue authorities that found that he had in fact overpaid his taxes by D50,000 (about 800 euros today).

The irony is that all these rights violations happened as a result of the military decrees that were passed during the early days of Jammeh, said Faal.

Yes, I agree, replied Mbai.

And a lot of those decrees were passed while you were Attorney General [and Minister of Justice]. People were evicted from their homes, arrests were ongoing, Faal continued.

I was also evicted from my homes.

Yes, but I hate to say that you became a victim of a system you helped created.

No. My stance has always been to advise against abuse of human rights.

But you said you accept responsibility for these decrees.

Yes.

So, you became a victim of your own creation.

Not my own creation. I did not create these decrees. I didnt enact the decrees. I was an adviser and my advice was against violations of human rights.

Here are 24 decrees, and every single one of them has an inherent rights violations provision in them, you kept advising against them, they kept passing them, and you still continued in office without resigning.

I was half way at sea, he replied enigmatically.

Decree No. 4 proscribed publications, displays, distribution including through newspapers, books, circular pictorial or any other document to further a political agenda. Veteran Gambian politicians Sedia Jatta and Halifa Sallah of the Peoples Democratic Organization for Independence and Socialism party would be arrested under this decree for publishing their partys organ, Foroyaa. Decree No. 8 banned political activities.

And more decrees were passed.

Decree No. 45 established the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), under the Office of the President. It gave the NIA director general the powers to issue search warrants, which is a judicial function. Anyone aggrieved by the NIA could not go to court. You could only report to the countrys president, who could decide or not to appoint a high court judge. Decree No. 57 gave the Minister of the Interior unlimited powers to order the arrest and detention without charge of any person in the interest of the security, peace, and stability of The Gambia. It abrogated applications for a writ of habeas corpus. Decree No. 66 extended the period of preventive detention up to 90 days. Decrees 70 and 71 increased the bond required from any independent newspaper publisher from D1000 to D100 000 (today about 1,600 euros).

Amie Bensouda, under whose responsibility the first decrees of the junta were promulgated in July 1994: I could have said no probably.  Mustapha K. Darboe

Amie Bensoudas denial

Before the TRRC, Amie Bensouda claimed her decrees, though they gave the military sweeping powers, were meant to protect the public interest. I could have said no probably, but what weighed on me was the public interest. Could we contain the excesses of the military? Certainly, decrees were needed. Not for the benefit of the military but for the benefit of the people, she argued. But available evidence before the Commission suggest otherwise: peoples assets were seized, arrests and indefinite detention occurred, as well as other forms of abuse.

Are you saying, Mrs. Bensouda, that these military decrees benefitted the public and, considering all the evidence that we have received, that this was a tool by Yahya Jammeh to entrench himself in power in this country? asked counsel Sagar Jahateh.

The decrees that I drafted were in the interest of the public. They incorporated them in the 1997 constitution. That is the choice of the Gambian people, not the Solicitor General or Mrs. Bensouda, she replied.

These decrees were churned out very quickly. Within a space of 15 days while you were Acting Attorney General, six decrees had been promulgated. In the instance of Decree No. 1 it was passed within one day after you consulted with the Chairman [Yahya Jammeh].

Yes, that is the nature of military rule because they dont have to take it to anybody. They are the Executive and they are the lawmaking body at the same time.

If you look at the provisions of Decree No. 1, it takes precedence over the constitution which was the sole jurisdiction of the Supreme Court at the time. The fact that even the courts could not question the validity of the Decrees, in my view gives them judicial powers because the courts were no longer relevant.

I dont agree. Decree No. 1, as drafted, did not oust the jurisdiction of the courts. It did not suspend the courts.

Not expressly but by implication it did.

I also dont agree with that.

Can you tell us why? If you are not able to resort to the courts, if the courts are not able to question the validity of the decrees, the decree is supreme to the constitution, then I dont see what the role of the courts there is.

What that means is that the courts do not have the jurisdiction to question whatever is done by decree. But it does not affect the continued existence of the courts. Let me remind you that this provision, in a different formulation, exist in the 1997 Constitution and it is still binding on the courts. So, the courts continue to exist.

I did not say the courts did not exist. My point is that as far as this Decree [No. 1] is concerned, the jurisdiction of the court is ousted.

In so far as they cannot question the validity of a decree? Yes, Bensouda conceded.

Bensouda denied that Decree No. 1 set the pace for the entire Constitution to be suspended, including its chapter on fundamental human rights.

What Decree No. 1 did is to suspend all those provisions which were in the constitution but were no longer relevant to the situation, she said. There was no president or cabinet, so the chapter on President and cabinet were suspended. There was no parliament, so the chapter on parliament was suspended. That is what Decree No. 1 did. Now, Decree 30, which came into force in March 1995, actually suspended the human rights provisions in the 1970 Constitution. By then there was a legal team advising the Armed Forces Provisional Ruling Council directly. These were not Gambians and I believe their advice was that there was no place for a human rights chapter in a military government.

I believe that even before Decree No. 30 was promulgated, in Decree No. 1 there was no place for human rights, retorted the TRRC counsel. The spirit of Decree No. 1 was against protection of fundamental human rights.

I dont agree. Decree No. 1 did not suspend fundamental human rights. It enabled us at the Ministry of Justice to consistently push for the military Junta to respect human rights, Bensouda claimed.
Members of the French armed forces deployed in Rwanda during the 1994 genocide were set Monday to avoid any trial after prosecutors recommended that judges drop a case accusing them of complicity in crimes against humanity over their inaction in a massacre.

Survivors of the June 1994 slaughter in the hills of Bisesero in western Rwanda had accused French troops of deliberately abandoning them to Hutu extremists, who murdered hundreds of people in the area within days.

The call to drop the 15-year-old case followed a major report in March examining allegations about Frances role in the genocide, which found that Paris had been blind to preparations but not complicit in the killings.

The Paris prosecutors concluded that the investigation did not make it possible to establish that the French forces could have been guilty of the crimes of complicity in genocide and crimes against humanity.

The inquiry did not confirm that there had been any help or assistance from the French military forces during the carrying out of the atrocities, said chief Paris prosecutor Remy Heitz.

Nor, he added, did it establish that the French forces refrained from intervening in the face of genocide or crimes against humanity due to a prior agreement.

 Denial of justice 

Prosecutors opened the criminal investigation into complicity in genocide in December 2005 after complaints filed by survivors and human rights groups.

Eric Plouvier, lawyer for the Survie (Survival) NGO that advocates better relations between France and Africa and was among the groups that filed a complaint, called the outcome heartbreaking and legally distressing.

In a denial of justice, the judiciary failed to take account of Frances overwhelming responsibilities that had allowed the genocide to take place, which were revealed in the historical report, he told AFP.

In March, the landmark French report compiled by historians concluded that Paris bore serious and overwhelming responsibilities over the slaughter of around 800,000 people between April and July 1994, mainly minority Tutsis.

The final decision over whether to press ahead with the case rests with the investigating magistrates.

They are now highly likely to drop the case unless any further investigations are ordered, said a source close to the inquiry, requesting anonymity.

The 386-page conclusion issued by the prosecutors and seen by AFP did not rule out the possibility that the lack of intervention by troops could constitute the crime of failure to assist a person in danger.

But this crime would in any case be covered by the statute of limitations.

The five French military officers targeted by the investigation have never been charged.

Survivors of the massacre alleged that France, which had backed the Hutu government of the day, used the UN-backed Turquoise peacekeeping mission as a front for trying to keep the regime in place, as a buffer against English-speaking Tutsi rebels.

An estimated 50,000 people alone were killed in the Bisesero area, which was deemed a haven of Tutsi resistance.

 Profound failure 

The report commissioned by French President Emmanuel Macron was particularly damning about the events in Bisesero, calling the failure of French troops to protect Tutsis sheltering in the hills, in a so-called safe zone, a profound failure.

The report noted that the French had been aware that Tutsis hiding in the area had been attacked but failed to respond to their pleas to be saved for days, by which time hundreds of people had been murdered.

The French historical commission blamed the troops failure to protect Tutsis in Bisesero on strategic considerations rather than the failings of individual soldiers.

French troops attempted to maintain a balance between the two sides (Hutu and Tutsi), the commission said.

The Rwandan genocide began after Rwandas Hutu president Juvenal Habyarimana, with whom Paris had cultivated close ties, was killed when his plane was shot down over Kigali on April 6.

Frances murky role in the violence poisoned relations for years between Paris and Rwandan President Paul Kagame, a former Tutsi rebel who has ruled the mountainous nation in Africas Great Lakes region since the aftermath of the genocide.

Paris hopes the historical report will usher in a new era of understanding with Kigali, and Macron is hoping to visit Rwanda later this year.
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The much-awaited day has come as "Youth of May," starring Lee Do Hyun, Go Min Si, Lee Sang Yi, and Geum Sae Rok, is scheduled to debut today, May 3.

Amid the premiere of the highly anticipated Korean drama, two main cast shares a sneak peek and spills what to expect in the newest KBS2 evening show.

Lee Do Hyun on His Character in "Youth of May"

The "18 Again" actor, who is set to portray the troublemaker Hwang Hee Tae, revealed that he asked for his parents' advice as well as the people around him to know more about the 1980s and the Gwangju Uprising.

This is how the actor establishes his role, adding, "I also spent a lot of time looking up information during my preparations."

"Youth of May," directed by Song Min Yeop and written by Lee Kang, was set during the Gwangju Uprising, which is known to be one of the most important events in the history of South Korea.

At the time, a mass protest, the majority were students, took place in Gwangju to express their disapproval against the military government. Around 600 people were reportedly killed during the incident.

In addition, Lee Do Hyun shared what made him say accept the offer for "Youth of May."

The 26-year-old actor said that he was "really drawn to the drama's wistfulness and the feelings of heartache" that inspires him and thinks that what made the drama "charming."

Go Min Si Reveals Her Most Favorite Scene in "Youth of May"

As for his leading lady, Go Min Si says that she is looking forward to Hwang Hee Tae and Kim Myung Hee's first date.

The "Love Alarm" actress will be playing Kim Myung Hee, the hard-working nurse who was transferred to Gwangju amid the chaos in the community.

In the interview obtained by a South Korean publication, the "Secret Boutique" star mentioned that this is where the viewers would be able to capture her character's soft side.

Aside from the two, "Youth of May" has a lineup of powerhouse cast including two other main leads Lee Sang Yi and Geum Sae Rok.

The "Once Again" actor is set to portray Lee Soo Chan, who came from a wealthy family and was caught up in a tension between Hwang Hee Tae's family.

On the other hand, Geum Sae Rok plays the younger sister of Lee Sang Yi, who is also the best friend of Kim Myung Hee.

Lee Do Hyun and Go Min Si's Upcoming Drama

"Youth of May" is the reunion project between Lee Do Hyun and Go Min Si, who first worked in the hit Netflix series "Sweet Home."

In the post-apocalyptic drama, the duo played siblings Lee Eun Yoo and Lee Eun Hyuk, who were among the group of survivors alongside Song Kang and Lee Jin Wook.

Aside from their latest KBS2 series, fans will get to see more of Lee Do Hyun and Go Min Si with their lineup of dramas this 2021.

The 26-year-old South Korean heartthrob is set to lead the upcoming drama "Melancholia" together with Im Soo Jung.

Meanwhile, his "Sweet Home" and "Youth of May" co-star is slated to appear in tvN's drama "Cliffhanger" alongside Jun Ji Hyun and Joo Ji Hoon.





KDramastars owns this article.

Written by Geca Wills
Three people are dead after a suspected smuggling vessel overturned off the coast of San Diego on Sunday morning.

San Diego Fire-Rescue Department spokesperson Monica Munoz told CNN they received reports of a vessel that overturned near the Cabrillo National Monument in Point Loma around 10:27 a.m. (1:27 p.m. ET).

James Gartland, lifeguard chief for San Diego, told reporters it appeared the boat hit the reef, broke up and 30 people 'came out of the vessel.'

In a Monday update, the US Coast Guard said 32 people were aboard the vessel, 29 survived, three died and of the five remaining in the hospital, one is in critical condition. The Coast Guard indicated Sunday more than 20 people were sent to the hospital.

'This was a mass rescue operation that turned into a mass casualty incident,' Gartland said.

By the time first responders arrived, the boat -- a 40-foot cabin cruiser -- was broken apart, according to Lifeguard Lt. Rick Romero with San Diego Fire-Rescue.

'Our goal was just to rescue everyone we could,' he said, adding that a Navy staff member who was out with his family also tried to save people in the water.

'Conditions were pretty rough -- 5-6 feet of surf, windy, cold, the water's around 60 degrees so you get hypothermic pretty quickly,' Romero said.

The San Diego Fire-Rescue Department said on its incident page it responded 'along with Federal Fire, US Coast Guard and other local agencies.'

'Every indication, from our perspective, is that this was a smuggling vessel used to smuggle migrants into the United States illegally,' said Jeff Stephenson, supervisor and border patrol agent in the San Diego sector of US Customs and Border Patrol.

The fire department said more than 20 people were transported to local hospitals 'including Sharp Memorial, Palomar Medical Center West, Alvarado, UCSD Medical Center (Hillcrest), Grossmont Hospital, Kaiser Clairemont Mesa, Kaiser Zion and Paradise Valley Hospital.'

The fire department said it 'will not get any updates on the status of patients because of privacy laws.'

The person believed to be operating the boat is in custody, officials said Sunday.

Mayor Todd Gloria tweeted for 'San Diegans to keep the boat's passengers in your prayers.'

CBP announced in a news release Friday it was beefing up patrol operations this weekend to deter smugglers.

'We've seen a dramatic increase in the number of maritime smuggling attempts recently,' said Chief Patrol Agent Aaron Heitke with CBP's San Diego sector. 'All of these illegal crossings at sea are inherently dangerous, and we have seen too many turn from risky to tragic as smugglers sacrifice the safety of those on board for the sake of profits.'

Stephenson told reporters Sunday there was a 92% increase in maritime apprehensions of smugglers in the fiscal year ending last September, compared to the previous year.

'This year we're seeing a pretty steady increase as well,' he said. 'It will probably be by the end of the year at least equal to what we had last year.'

Sunday's incident also follows the arrest of 21 people off the coast of San Diego early Thursday, according to another CBP news release. This group was found in a panga, a small open boat often used for working off the coast of Mexico or Central America, according to the US Coast Guard. The engine-powered vessels are typically 25 to 45 feet long.

The 21 people included 15 men and six women who were Mexican nationals with no legal status to enter the United States, CBP said. The two suspected smugglers on board will face federal charges, it said.

Correction: The Coast Guard has revised its information regarding the number of people on board and those who died. This story has been updated to reflect the corrected numbers.
Letters signed by President Joe Biden have begun to go out notifying beneficiaries of their direct payments under the administration's Covid relief package, CNN has learned.

The letters were sent out this past week, a White House official tells CNN, to notify recipients who received direct payments under the American Rescue Plan last month.

"My fellow American, On March 11, 2021, I signed into law the American Rescue Plan, a law that will help vaccinate America and deliver immediate economic relief to hundreds of millions of Americans, including you," the letter from the IRS reads. "This fulfills a promise I made to you, and will help get millions of Americans through this crisis."

The letters include both English and Spanish versions.

Under the package, which passed along strict party lines in early March, Congress mandates that the Internal Revenue Service and the Department of Treasury, "shall provide such taxpayer with a written notice which includes the taxpayer's taxpayer identity...the aggregate amount of such payments made to such taxpayer during such calendar year, and such other information as the Secretary determines appropriate."

There is no requirement, however, that the President sign said written notice.

Previous tranches of Covid relief, passed and signed into law under then-President Donald Trump, included physical checks signed by Trump, which drew criticism from Democrats at the time, including House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who called the decision "shameful." Those payments also required notifications from the IRS and Treasury, which were also signed by Trump.

Asked upon passage of the administration's Covid package, White House press secretary Jen Psaki said Biden's signature would not appear on relief checks.

"This is not about him," Psaki told reporters in March. "This is about the American people getting relief, almost 160 million of them."

CNN has reached out to the White House and Treasury for comment.
Rarick hit the child in the head while he was on the bike, causing the boy to fall to the ground. The 19-year-old then got on the dirt bike and drove off. The 9-year-old suffered a cut to his scalp that required stitches.
Two separate storm systems -- one from the Gulf Coast region and the other coming from the Mountain West -- will threaten millions of people with severe weather Sunday and Monday.

The Gulf Coast system will arrive Sunday. More than 15 million people from Lake Charles, Louisiana to Pensacola, Florida, and northward to Memphis could experience damaging winds, hail and a few tornadoes.

"There will be a Slight Risk (level 2 of 5) of severe weather across south Mississippi and southeast Louisiana during the daytime hours on Sunday," the National Weather Service Office in New Orleans explains. "Damaging winds and large hail are the most significant threats, but a tornado or two cannot be ruled out."

Flash flooding will also be a concern, especially for areas of Texas and Louisiana that have been dealing with heavy rain for the past few days.

Check the weather in your area here >>

"The ground is already saturated in a lot of these areas, so it won't take much to initiate flash flooding," said Haley Brink, CNN Meteorologist. "In fact, some areas of Texas have picked up over 4 inches of rain in just the last 48 hours."

Severe storms and snow?

A second system will be sliding through the Mountain West and Central Plains on Sunday.

"Strong to severe thunderstorm development is also possible over the central High Plains, where large hail and severe gusts are the threats," the Storm Prediction Center said.

In western Kansas, the SPC has posted an Enhanced risk (level 3 out of 5).

By Sunday night, as colder air pushes in behind the front, snow is forecast for the higher elevations of Colorado and Wyoming.

Several cities along the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains will go from having temperatures 15-20 degrees above normal to 20-25 degrees below normal in just 48 hours.

Denver will be one of those cities feeling seasonal whiplash. On Saturday, the mile-high city reached 86 degrees, their average high for late June and one degree shy of the record for May 1. By Monday, the city will be expecting a high temperature of only 47 degrees -- their normal high for late February.

The exceptionally warm air ahead of the front will be fueling yet another day of severe storms -- this time along the Mississippi River Valley region.

On Monday, over 40 million people from Dallas, Texas, to Columbus, Ohio, will be under the threat for severe storms. The main dangers will be damaging winds hail, and tornadoes.

The greatest threat for tornadoes exists from Tulsa, Oklahoma over to Paducah, Kentucky.

The biggest concern for the lower Ohio River Valley through the Ozark Plateau will be the timing of the storms, which will largely be in the evening and overnight. A recent study found that nighttime tornadoes are more than twice as likely to be deadly.
SEATTLE (AP)  At least 20 people were arrested during May Day protests in Seattle and Portland, Oregon. Police in Seattle say 14 people were arrested for crimes including obstruction, property destruction, reckless driving and assault on Saturday as several marches wound through the downtown area.

About 150 people participated in a non-violent march in support of migrant workers, workers rights and racial equality in Seattle.

In Portland, peaceful demonstrations during the day gave way to violent demonstrations Saturday night in which windows were broken at multiple businesses near City Hall.

About 100 people were involved in that march and police announced six arrests.
SEATTLE, Wash.  Early Sunday morning, two hikers who were stranded on a cliff near Hoh Head in Olympic National Park were rescued by the Coast Guard.

According to the United States Coast Guard, Olympic National Park Rangers contacted the Coast Guard around midnight on Sunday, requesting air rescue assistance for two people, Tessa Allen and Reed Farber, both in their 20s, stranded about 60 feet high on a cliffs ledge after climbing to retreat from rising tides.

The Coast Guard says that they sent out a rescue helicopter shortly later and quickly found the two stranded hikers thanks to a cellphone light from the cliffside.

Helicopter rescue crews say that they noticed that both Allen and Farber were about 150 feet from the water line and were packed close to one another on the ledge of a cliff.

Realizing that the situation was life-threatening, helicopter crews quickly took action to rescue both hikers.

The time of day and location of the hikers made this, by far, the most difficult hoist of my career, said Lt. Cmdr. Sammy Hill, the aircraft commander for the rescue.This was also the first operational rescue for both our rescue swimmer and flight mechanic. Considering the dark and perilous conditions, they did a commendable job saving the lives of these two people in their unprecedented first rescue.

The Coast Guard aircrew says that they hoisted the hikers from the ledge at about 2 a.m. and took them to Forks Airport where they were reported to be in good condition.
MEDFORD, Ore.  Over the next four school years, Logos Public Charter School in Medford will expand student enrollment by 250 kids, following the approval of a new 5-year contract by the Medford School Board.

Logos said that it currently serves 1060 students, making it the largest non-virtual charter school in Oregon. The school has had a waitlist for years, but the coronavirus pandemic has only increased demand for Logos' program, growing the list to more than 500 students.

The Medford School Board on Thursday approved a gradual enrollment increase of 250 students over the next four school years  bringing total enrollment to 1160 students in 2021-2022, 1210 students in 2022-2023, 1260 students in 2023-2024, and 1310 students in 2024-2025.

My hat's off to Logos. They have done really well," said School Board Member Cynthia Wright following the vote. "Im excited that more people get an opportunity to attend Logos because theyve come up with some really great results and are offering a great educational option for people that want that and Im excited that more kids have that option.

In the Medford School District, we believe that ALL options should be open and hopeful for students," said Superintendent Dr. Bret Champion. "We continue to appreciate the commitment of Logos to ensure our families have options for a high quality education.

The Logos School Board is expected to adopt this new contract at a May 17 meeting.

Medford School District has shown it is an educational leader in options for students in Jackson and even Josephine Counties by continuing to support Logos," said Logos executive director Sheryl Zimmerer. "Charter schools in Oregon are tasked by the legislature with being innovative, more flexible, taking responsible risks around education, and to be a model and catalyst for change in traditional schools. Logos has provided an innovative and extraordinary education for thousands of students across the Rogue Valley in the last decade. With our great program and high graduation rate, we have grown into the largest non-virtual charter school in Oregon. We are excited to be able to offer our program to even more students! We are thankful for the Medford School District for seeing the value in our program.
A Kelowna RCMP helicopter, like this one shown in a file photo, was involved in successful efforts to locate three suspects after a report of shots being fired last Friday inside a Peachland home.
Less: Just look at London, Ont.

Same: We hear more bad news.

More: Canada is on the right path.

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The Amistad Project also claims the grants at first were set up to help cities have a safe election during the pandemic, but many of the conditions set up by the CTCL had nothing to do with public health. Kaardal said that voter navigators were employed to help voters complete their ballots.

(They) were privately funded, privately directed, but nominally a public employee, he said. So that way, that person could do the absentee ballot harvesting, which would otherwise be a violation of Wisconsin law.

In addition to the mayor and clerk for each of the five cities, the complaint also lists Meagan Wolfe, administrator of the Wisconsin Elections Commission, as one of the respondents, Kaardal said.

Future elections the issue at hand

More than 200 local governments in Wisconsin and more than 2,500 across the nation accepted money from CTCL. Both prior to and after the election, the WEC has ruled that accepting such funds is legal, and there are no laws that ban it in Wisconsin.
To address student wellness, districts should look at hiring more school nurses, counselors and other professionals who can help students work through the trauma and mental health consequences of this pandemic. Bolstering students mental and emotional well-being is good for students, in and of itself, but it will also pay dividends for students academic achievement in the long run.
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United States health officials have lifted the 10-day pause of the Johnson & Johnson (J&J) COVID vaccine. This pause dealt a devastating blow to the nationwide vaccination effort. The seven-day moving average of vaccinations in the U.S. peaked right before the pause, and has been trending downward. Fear of developing blood clots is adding to vaccine hesitancy. Moving forward, how can we build confidence in COVID vaccines? Perhaps its time to take a new approach in reaching Americans.

The J&J blood clots affected women in the age range of 18-49, although cases in men are still being investigated and are present in the AstraZeneca vaccine. Prior to the pause, the rural 18-49 age group was one of the most hesitant groups to get the COVID vaccine. Vaccination rates among rural seniors also lagged their urban counterparts.

The rural U.S. population tends to be older than their urban counterparts, with more underlying chronic conditions. They are less likely to have health insurance, access to diagnostic imaging, and primary care services. If a rare side-effect of COVID vaccinations happens to one of these individuals, they need to travel longer distances to access a high-resolution CT scanner needed to diagnose blood clots in the brain and liver.

As we move forward from the difficulties found with vaccines such as Johnson & Johnson or AstraZeneca, having transparency with and educating our vulnerable and hesitant populations will become key to maintaining public trust. Headlines often emphasize the risks because they get the clicks, but numbers in the millions are hard for our brains to process. By contrast, relatability, emotion, and humor help us learn and retain information.

Science communicators use social math to accomplish this. If youve seen a Facebook post about your odds of being struck by lightning being higher than dying from the J&J vaccine, then youve seen social math.

You may have heard that six feet apart is roughly the length of one cow. And you may know that about 8 million J&J shots have gone into arms, but did you know that is about eight times the population of the entire state of Montana?

With 15 individual cases of severe blood clots after receiving the shot, the rare 1 in 100,000 chance of a cow giving birth to triplets is more likely than the odds of one person getting a clot from a J&J vaccine.

Social math gives context to numbers, making comparisons to familiar things like geographic areas or other objects. It describes an issue in a more meaningful way than merely sharing data and statistics can. Social math can help public health messages resonate with our vulnerable and hesitant populations.

Government officials can leverage social math by describing the clotting advisory with a comparison of the lifetime odds of dying. For example, 1 in 92 Americans dies from an accidental opioid overdose versus 3 deaths in nearly 8 million doses of the J&J vaccine. These numbers can be put even further into context with clear and entertaining graphics.

While a bumper crop of news stories has grown, local communities can help build and restore trust in vaccine decision-making. How we share information with others is important. We are still identifying which groups are at higher risk for vaccine blood clots. We want to avoid J&Js one-shot becoming a dudes only vaccine until researchers further investigate.

Roughly 60 million people are living in rural and small towns throughout the U.S., almost 1 in 5 Americans. Reaching and vaccinating rural Americans will be key in moving forward from this pandemic. Framing the context for these blood clots can put vaccine-related information into better perspective. Through social math, we can help the American public realize that while the headline is frightening, the reality is something we can all understand.

Sandra Vamos is a public health associate professor. Francesca Decker is a family physician. Jennifer Van Syckle is a health care and public health professional. Lawrence Weru is a writer and consultant.

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You have seen those harrowing pictures. Patients dying outside the hospitals while waiting for a bed. People on oxygen masks gasping for air-sharing beds. Dead bodies piling up in morgues. Overstretched crematoriums and burial grounds. COVID has hit India very hard in April 2021. This is the second wave of disease in the country. They largely escaped the first wave and were confident by the end of 2020 that they have defeated COVID-19.

But COVID-19 is a different animal. You cant make any predictions about this new disease which has baffled even developed countries with robust health systems. In India, scores of health care workers got infected, placing a tremendous strain on health care delivery during the current surge. The lack of availability of medications such as remdesivir is also making the situation grave.

Why did this happen? While the U.S. and other countries were going through a second surge of COVID-19 cases during the latter part of 2020, the number of cases in India was decreasing dramatically. The total number of deaths due to COVID-19 was also declining. See the following figures for a comparison of COVID surges in the U.S. and India.

Experts cite at least 4 reasons for the emergence of the current COVID-19 surge in India.

1. Pandemic fatigue and complacency. By 2021, people had enough of the pandemic restrictions as in any other part of the world. India was under a massive lockdown during most of 2020, which helped stop the viruss spread. Coupled with this, politicians encouraged huge in-person political rallies for local and state elections. They gloated that India has conquered COVID-19. Mask wearing became less prevalent. Large religious gatherings and massive sporting events were also allowed.

2. Low vaccination rates. India is said to be the powerhouse of global vaccine production. During the current crisis, there were hiccups. India offered to produce and distribute Oxford University formulated AstraZeneca vaccine globally to developing countries under a WHO plan. One of the major vaccine makers in India, the Serum Institute, was constrained by a lack of funds and a lack of imported raw materials, severely affecting their production capacity. Moderna and Pfizer vaccines were also not approved in India. In addition to the AstraZeneca vaccine India depends on, a homegrown vaccine called Covaxin to vaccinate its population. The end result was a low availability of vaccines with a huge demand in a country with a 1.3 billion population. Only 25 million people are fully vaccinated in India, which constitutes less than 2 percent of the population. In contrast, 31.5 percent population in the U.S. is already fully vaccinated.

3. New variants. Coronavirus variants identified in South Africa, the U.K., and Brazil were circulating in India. Other new variants also have been reported from India; the most concerning is the local strain identified as B.1.617. Two mutations, E484K and L452R, which have led this variant to be dubbed a double mutant is the characteristic of this strain. This new variant has been blamed for higher infectivity and the ability to evade antibodies though the scientific proof for this hypothesis is still lacking.

4. A fragile health care system. India has a very fragile health care system, to begin with, even though several hospitals are world-class and famous for medical tourism. COVID testing rates were low in India. Some states implemented contact tracing and strict quarantine to control the infection during the first wave in 2020. However, the second surge caught them by surprise, with thousands of patients showing up at the hospitals. When the infection surge goes to that level, contact tracing is extremely resource intense, practically difficult, and less effective. Even developed countries such as European countries and the U.S. were unable to handle surges of COVID cases, as witnessed by the chaos in New York in 2020.

All these factors coupled with the massive movement of people confined in small spaces probably also contributed to the current surge of COVID-19. India has a population density of1066 per square mile in contrast to 87 per square mile in the U.S. India also has several of the most congested cities globally; for example, the population density in Mumbai is 76,790 per square mile.

The current Indian COVID surge should be an eye opener to other countries, especially those with limited resources and low vaccination rates. The current surge also affected rural areas more frequently than the mainly urban pattern observed during the first surge. Individuals aged 30 to 50 are also more affected probably because they ventured out more for work. There are also several unknowns about the virulence of the emerging variants and their susceptibility to neutralizing antibodies. We do not have an array of specific medications to counter the virus. We are not out of this pandemic yet. This pandemic is not over yet. Any cluster of cases or surges should be handled with caution and great anticipation.

P. Dileep Kumar is a hospitalist.

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By Ritah Kemigisa

Twaweza East Africas Executive Director Aidan Eyakuze has challenged the media in Uganda to avoid being partisan if they are to gain the citizens trust and also tackle global challenges.

Officiating at the launch of the Editors Guild of Uganda, Eyakuze said information is key in addressing challenges in the health sector, social inequalities, economic fragmentation and preserving climate change for the future generation both locally and internationally.

He however warns that if the media is forced to promote state and authoritarian propaganda then its information ceases to be a public good.

Eyakuze cites Tanzania where the media was suppressed and barred from publishing important covid-19 related information.
By Ivan Ssenabulya

Parliament has today considered and passed with amendments the Income Tax Amendment Bill, 2021.

This is one of the 6 bills passed so far today as 10th parliament rushes to wrap up business before its term expires in just a few days.

The Speaker Rebecca Kadaga had earlier deferred debate on the Motion for Second Reading of the Income Tax [Amendment] Bill, 2021 to later in the afternoon, pending harmonization of issues raised by members during debate.

Also passed is the External Trade (Amendment) Bill,2021, The Tax Appeals Tribunal (Amendment) Bill,2021, The Tobacco Control (Amendment) Bill,2021, The Mining (Amendment) Bill,2021 and The Fish (Amendment) Bill, 2021.

However, the Traffic and Road Safety Act (Amendment) Bill, 2021 and The External Trade (Amendment) Bill, 2021 have been rejected pending further consultations.
By Prossy Kisakye

As Uganda joins the rest of the world to commemorate the World Press Freedom Day today, journalists and stakeholders have been urged to raise a very strong voice against brutality by security personnel.

The Uganda Journalists Association (UJA) President, Matthias Rukundo tells KFM that over the years, journalists have been attacked while in line of duty by security personnel, leaving many seriously injured and unable to practise their profession.

He says for this to be stopped, there is need for a collaborative move from journalists themselves and stakeholders to strongly the brutal attacks meted on them.
By Our Reporter More by this Author

The theft of mobile phones is the biggest crime committed in Kampala and the surrounding areas, according to authorities.

Police say the theft of mobile phones is the work of petty robbers who are tapping into the lucrative second-hand phone market.

Victims

Most people fall victim to thieves when they are inside vehicles and cannot get the time to pursue the criminals or seek help instantly. Even those who have attempted to chase the thieves end up being assaulted by the same criminals.

Most of the cases under police investigations point at delinquents operating in groups.

Some of the robberies involve street children armed with knives.

Read more: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/where-you-re-likely-to-lose-your-phone-in-kampala-3385284
In the last year we've lost thousands of family members, friends and co-workers to COVID-19. We'd like to give you a chance to honor their memory.

Share a Memory
Mary Cullinan, who resigned as president of Eastern Washington University in August, stands in front of Showalter Hall on Feb. 20, 2015.
I reached out to fellow pharmacist, Bob Begliomini, senior vice president of operations for Lehigh Valley Health Network. He put me in touch with Brianna McCauley, who runs the LVHN mobile COVID vaccine unit. A week later, Brianna said they could come to the Northern Lehigh area the following Friday. All I had to do was secure a location and line up appointments.
Kilkenny-based MACE stores have teamed up with Ireland out-half Johnny Sexton to offer people the opportunity to share in a prize-fund of 10,000 in a community initiative whereby customers and the public nominate their Unsung Hero.

MACE is challenging the people of Kilkenny to nominate that special someone who goes the extra mile to make a difference, but in many cases do not get the recognition they deserve. We want people to nominate their unsung hero, and to tell us which award you think they should win and why. There are five special individual awards with a prize of 1,000 for the most worthy hero in each category.

The individual Award Categories are:

Charity Award

Child & Youth Award

Environment Award

Sports, Health & Well-being Award

MACE Staff Award

The special overall MACE Community Award will single out someone from around Ireland who really goes over and above to give something back to their community. Do you know someone who gives themselves selflessly to benefit a charity organisation or the environment? If so, then we want to hear from you. Nominate that person by logging onto www.mace.ie/unsung-heroes and highlighting just why they deserve to be recognised as an Unsung Hero.

Each category winner will receive 1,000 while the overall special MACE Community Unsung Hero will receive an overall prize of 5,000.

MACE Ambassador Johnny Sexton is very excited to be part of an initiative that sees the public nominate someone special to their community who embodies all that is good about their community, someone who truly is a local hero.

Im delighted to be a part of this exciting initiative. The last year-and-a-half has been a very challenging time for all of us and little acts of kindness have gone a long way to help people. The Unsung Hero is a person who puts the needs of others ahead of their own and I am really looking forward to seeing the wide range of thoughtful and spontaneous acts by people in communities all around the country. I am genuinely proud to be working with MACE in promoting this positive community initiative throughout towns and villages in Ireland.

Closing date for entries is 31st May 2021 and entering couldnt be simpler. Log on to www.mace.ie/unsung-heroes and nominate that special someone you believe is a true Unsung Hero. There is no limit on the number of award categories you can enter and you can even enter yourself.

MACE Sales Director, Daniel OConnell, commented, We all know that person who consistently goes out of their way to do something nice or special for someone and this is your chance to acknowledge their kindness. MACE is determined to contribute positively to the communities we serve by supporting those that lead a life filled with acts of kindness and we want to celebrate the Unsung Heroes all around Ireland.
A year ago, when the Covid-19 pandemic was still in its relative infancy, the head of the World Health Organization stressed that a global approach would be the only way out of the crisis.

"The way forward is solidarity: solidarity at the national level, and solidarity at the global level," WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told a media briefing in April 2020.

Fast-forward 12 months and the devastating scenes in India, where hospitals have been overwhelmed by a surge of Covid-19 cases and thousands are dying for lack of oxygen, suggest the warnings went unheeded.

India is not the only global Covid-19 hotspot. Turkey entered its first national lockdown Thursday, an unwelcome step prompted by infection rates which are now the highest in Europe.

Iran reported its highest daily Covid-19 death toll so far on Monday, with many towns and cities forced into partial lockdown to curb the spread of the virus. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani has said the country is suffering a fourth wave of infections.

The picture across much of South America is also gloomy. Brazil, with more than 14.5 million confirmed coronavirus cases and nearly 400,000 deaths, according to Johns Hopkins University data, continues to have the highest daily rate of Covid-19 deaths per million in the world.

Some countries have offered help as hotspots emerge, for example flying in oxygen concentrators, ventilators and other medical supplies to India in recent days. But the coordinated global response urged by Tedros a year ago -- and repeatedly since, by WHO and other global heath bodies -- remains elusive.

And while some Western countries are eying a return to more normal life in the coming weeks, the worldwide picture remains dire. The number of global Covid-19 cases has risen for the ninth consecutive week and the number of deaths is up for the sixth week straight, WHO said last Monday.

"To put it in perspective, there were almost as many cases globally last week as in the first five months of the pandemic," Tedros said.

COVAX, the global vaccine-sharing initiative that provides discounted or free doses for lower-income countries, is still the best chance most have of procuring the vaccine doses that might bring the pandemic under control.

But it is heavily reliant on India's capacity, through its Serum Institute of India (SII), to produce doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine which are the cornerstone of the COVAX initiative.

While India promised to supply 200 million COVAX doses, with options for up to 900 million more, to be distributed to 92 low- and middle-income countries, its own rapidly worsening situation has prompted New Delhi to shift focus from the initiative to prioritizing its own citizens.

'Shocking imbalance'

At the same time, Western countries have been criticized for vaccine stockpiling. Some, including the United States, Canada and United Kingdom, have ordered far more vaccine doses than they need.

UK Health Secretary Matt Hancock said Wednesday that the UK -- which is now vaccinating healthy people in their 40s, having already offered at least one dose to all its older and more vulnerable residents -- had no spare vaccines to send to India. The UK government has said it will share surplus doses at a later stage.

The SII "are making and producing more doses of vaccine than any other single organization. And obviously that means that they can provide vaccine to people in India at cost," Hancock said. "India can produce its own vaccine, based on British technology, that is... the biggest contribution that we can make which effectively comes from British science."

In the United States, everyone age 16 and older is now eligible for a Covid-19 vaccine and 30% of the population is fully vaccinated, according to data Friday from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Earlier in the week, the White House said it would donate up to 60 million doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine -- of which it has a stockpile but has not yet authorized -- in the coming months following a federal safety review.

Well over half of Israel's total population has received at least one dose of the coronavirus vaccine, and the country is easing restrictions.

As of early April, just 0.2% of the over 700 million vaccine doses administered globally were given in low-income countries, while high-income and upper middle-income nations accounted for more than 87% of the doses, according to Tedros.

In low-income countries, only one in more than 500 people has received a Covid-19 vaccine, compared with almost one in four people in high-income countries -- a contrast Tedros described as a "shocking imbalance."

"Some [of the 92 lower-income countries] haven't received any vaccines, none have received enough and now some countries are not receiving their second-round allocations on time," Tedros told a global donor event on April 15.

"We've shown that COVAX works. But to realize its full potential, we need all countries to step up with the political and financial commitments needed to fully fund COVAX and end the pandemic."

While many wealthier nations have pledged funds, they have been less ready to give up their Covid-19 shots. France last week became the first country to donate AstraZeneca doses from its domestic supply to COVAX.

"The problem is the people with the power are predominantly national governments," said Michael Head, senior research fellow in global health at the University of Southampton, in England. "The WHO offers guidance, but it doesn't have much power. And it's the WHO that works on things like equity to ensure that the world is as protected as it can be.

"Obviously national governments are there to act in their own citizens' interests, and when it comes to a pandemic the world is quite selfish, all countries are quite selfish -- they to a certain extent quite reasonably look after their own people first."

The 'only truly global solution'

An initiative led by WHO, the Vaccine Alliance -- known as Gavi -- and the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovation, COVAX was heralded last year as the "only truly global solution" to the pandemic by ensuring equitable global access to Covid-19 vaccines.

Its initial aim was to have 2 billion doses of vaccines available by the end of 2021, which should be enough to protect high risk and vulnerable people, as well as frontline health care workers in participating countries, according to Gavi.

But in the face of vaccine hoarding by rich countries and disruption of supplies, COVAX has struggled to keep up with its delivery schedule.

COVAX delivered its very first batch of Covid-19 vaccine doses to Ghana on February 24. As of now, it has shipped 49.5 million doses of coronavirus vaccines to 121 countries -- far behind the original plan of distributing 100 million doses by the end of March.

"Our initial goal was to reach 20% of populations, with a specific focus on the 92 lowest-income countries and territories eligible for support from the Gavi COVAX Advance Market Commitment," a Gavi spokesperson said.

"We have now secured deals for significantly beyond that amount, though the tight supply context on global markets means that the first half of the year has seen delays in getting doses to countries. With the correct funding in place, we believe it will be possible to finance and secure 1.8 billion doses to those 92 lower-income economies (AMC92) in 2021."

The struggle of COVAX is a telling example of the obstacles to a coordinated global response, as individual countries prioritize their own interests.

COVAX works by buying a portfolio of coronavirus vaccines in bulk at a lower price from pharmaceutical companies and allocating them to participating countries. Higher-income countries can buy the vaccines at cheaper prices negotiated by COVAX -- and perhaps as a backup to their own bilateral deals -- while lower-income nations who would otherwise be unable to afford these vaccines can get the doses at a discounted price or for free.

From the beginning, however, COVAX has struggled to secure vaccines from manufacturers, as wealthy nations rushed to snap up global vaccine supply via their own bilateral deals with pharmaceutical companies. According to data compiled by Duke University, high income countries currently hold 4.7 billion doses of Covid-19 vaccines, while COVAX has purchased just 1.1 billion.

In addition, only WHO-approved vaccines can be distributed by COVAX, which has limited its portfolio. So far, only vaccines from Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson have been green-lit for emergency use by WHO.

While boasting a high efficacy rate of around 95%, both the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines require freezer storage -- and many low income countries simply don't have that cold storage capacity.

Therefore, before the Johnson & Johnson vaccine was approved by WHO in March, COVAX relied heavily on the AstraZeneca vaccine, which can be kept at normal refrigerator temperatures. In early March, it said the target was to deliver 237 million doses of AstraZeneca's shots to 142 countries by the end of May -- a goal it is unlikely to achieve given the delay in supplies from India.

"If many of the AstraZeneca vaccines are made in India, and India has got thousands of deaths everyday and is completely overwhelmed, then you can see another reason why COVAX is challenged," said Dale Fisher, a professor of infectious disease at the National University of Singapore.

Vaccine equity

Gavi told CNN it expects all Indian vaccine production will be committed to protecting its own citizens "for the next month at least." But it insisted such issues had been anticipated, and that as a result, it was in talks with manufacturers of other vaccine candidates on supply schedules.

Next on the WHO's approval list are two China-made vaccines. The vaccine made by Chinese state-owned pharmaceutical giant Sinopharm is expected to be approved by the end of April, while the go-ahead for the other, made by private company Sinovac, is expected by early May.

Like the AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson shots, both Chinese vaccines require only normal refrigerator conditions, and thus can be more easily transported in developing countries.

China has committed 10 million doses of its vaccines to COVAX, but that number pales in comparison with the more than 100 million doses it has sent overseas via bilateral deals with individual countries -- including donations to poor nations.

While a welcome gesture, these donation deals, often influenced by politics, don't necessarily lead to vaccines reaching the countries in greatest need.

Thomas Bollyky, director of the Global Health Program at the Council on Foreign Relations, said that of the 65 countries China has pledged donations to, all but two are participants in the Belt and Road Initiative, Beijing's multibillion dollar global infrastructure and trade program.

"While I'm glad China is donating, those donations aren't being distributed in the way with the first priority of preventing unnecessary deaths or ending this pandemic as soon as possible," Bollyky said. "They seem to be distributed in the manner that is guided by China's strategic interest."

Another concern is a lack of transparency surrounding the two Chinese vaccines, Bollyky said. Neither Sinopharm nor Sinovac has released the full data from late-stage clinical trials.

Lifting patents

As demand outstrips supply, there have been calls for big pharmaceutical companies to lift the patents on their vaccines to allow them to be produced more widely.

Bollyky said to scale up global manufacturing of vaccines, however, what is really needed is the technology transfer.

"It's not just a matter of intellectual property. It's also the transfer of know-how," he said. "I don't think there's clear evidence that a waiver of an intellectual property is going to be the best way for that technology transfer to occur."

Waiving patents will not work in the same way for vaccines as it has for drugs, Bollyky said. For HIV drugs, for example, manufacturers were more or less able to reverse engineer them without much help from the original developer.

"It's very different for vaccines, where it's really a biological process as much as a product. It's hard to scale up manufacturing in this process for the original company, let alone another manufacturer trying to figure this out without assistance," he said. "It requires a lot of knowledge that's not part of the IP."

The deal between AstraZeneca and the Serum Institute of India is a successful example of such technology transfer, Bollyky said, where the licensing of IP happened voluntarily. "The question is what can we do to facilitate more deals like the one between AstraZeneca and the Serum Institute of India to have this transfer," he said.

Head, the researcher at the University of Southampton, sees the bigger issue as one of manufacturing capacity.

"There's not that many sites that are able to manufacture any of the approved vaccines at a large scale -- certainly not enough to cover the 8 billion population around the world," he said.

"Sharing intellectual property during the pandemic is something that should happen but that doesn't resolve the issues," he said. "Manufacturing vaccines is hard. It's hard to rapidly set up a new site with all the equipment, infrastructure, all the vaccine ingredients, with suitable staff to produce a large number of high quality vaccine products. That's tricky."

India's reduction in vaccine exports to COVAX and other countries while it battles its own crisis is understandable, Head said, but "obviously will have consequences for other countries, particularly those in the poorer parts of the world that have barely vaccinated any parts of their population yet. That will essentially sustain the pandemic for a bit longer than we'd hoped."

Head predicts disruptions to supply will continue for the next six to 12 months while demand remains sky-high and companies scramble to acquire limited ingredients and step up production.

Pursuing vaccine sovereignty

Against this backdrop, some countries are seeking diverse ways to get the vaccine doses they so desperately need.

Turkish Health Minister Fahrettin Koca said Wednesday that Turkey would experience difficulties in securing vaccines over the next two months.

As well as signing a deal for 50 million doses of Russia's Sputnik shot, the country will also begin producing it locally, Koca said in a recorded speech. And the country is also working to develop its own vaccine, with the most advanced candidate an inactive vaccine that is expected to begin phase 3 trial soon, according to the minister.

Cuba, too, is pursuing vaccine sovereignty, with the development of five Covid-19 vaccine candidates, two of which are in their final phase three trials. Long cut off from much of the rest of the world, it has experience in producing medicines that few other developing nations can match.

According to Head, increasing research and production capacity across the globe will be key to managing future pandemics.

"In between pandemic times, we must learn lessons about improving infrastructure for research across low and lower-middle income settings," he said. "We need several large hubs, manufacturing sites across Africa and Southeast Asia and South America that are able to develop at large scale vaccines and diagnostics and therapeutics, and with the paperwork in place as well."

That paperwork, Head said, would ensure that the vaccines produced in such regional hubs go first to the countries in need there -- and prevent richer nations jumping the queue.
Journalist Ye Wint Thu was already on the run when his name and photo appeared on a wanted list broadcast by Myanmar's military junta.

For weeks, he had been documenting protests in Yangon against the military coup. But in early March, after a colleague was violently arrested in the south of the country, and the junta revoked the licenses of five prominent media organizations, his included, he got word that he should go into hiding.

"I got a call from my source saying I should run right now because they are going to arrest you tonight," said Ye Wint Thu, who is in his late 30s.

He stuffed what he could into bags  his laptops, work projects and important documents  and fled with his wife.

Since then, they have stayed with friends, family and colleagues, moving each night to evade the security forces who regularly conduct nighttime raids of suspected safe houses.

Ye Wint Thu's story is not a one-off. Journalists across Myanmar are being attacked by the military junta merely for doing their jobs. More than 80 journalists have been arrested since the coup on February 1, with more than half of those still in detention, according to a statement from Western embassies in Myanmar.

Offices of newspapers and online media have been raided. A nightly news bulletin on state TV broadcasts the names and images of those sought by the junta. Many of them, like Ye Wint Thu, are journalists.

Some have been hauled off to secretive military interrogation centers and charged with crimes under section 505a  a law amended by the military that makes it a crime punishable by up to three years in prison for publishing or circulating comments that "cause fear" or spread "false news."

Braving bullets and potential torture if they are captured, Myanmar's reporters are continuing to expose alleged atrocities by the junta against its own people. And alongside the muzzled media, citizen journalists are taking great risks to gather information, while activists secretly publish and distribute revolutionary newsletters and pamphlets.

"What's happening in Myanmar is a humanitarian crisis of the press," said Shawn Crispin, senior Southeast Asia representative for the Committee to Protect Journalists. "As global condemnation of the coup rose, it's becoming clear that the [military junta] want to suppress the news and to suppress coverage on what they're doing to the pro democracy demonstrators. And so they're going after the press."

'I could die on the street'

Before the coup on February 1, Ye Wint Thu traveled around Myanmar producing and anchoring a current affairs TV program for independent media outlet Democratic Voice of Burma (DVB). Now, he said, most journalists and editors he knows have gone underground as it's too dangerous to be on the streets.

"I could die on the street. Someone could shoot at me or I could get arrested. On the streets, there's a lot of informants and a lot of people who I don't know, so I might get killed," he said.

During one crackdown in Yangon's Hledan, a district which had become a flashpoint for protests, Ye Wint Thu described running from security forces who were shooting at protesters. He sought shelter in a migrant hostel.

"I had to hide in a small bedroom because the soldiers and police were shooting and were trying to catch people on the streets," he said.

Despite knowing that he's wanted by the junta, Ye Wint Thu said he won't stop working.

"Most of the journalists are on the run, like me. They can't do their jobs freely," he said. "All I can do now is conduct interviews here and make phone calls ... We can't stop, it's really important for the people of Burma," he said, using another name for Myanmar.

In downtown Yangon, DVB's office has been sealed shut. The staff managed to recover essential broadcast equipment but the once buzzing newsroom, like most media offices in the city, remains empty. Police regularly check the premises to make sure they aren't broadcasting.

The morning of the coup, DVB was taken off the air along with all other independent TV channels. The news organization switched to broadcasting via satellite but the junta issued an order for citizens to remove the PSI satellite dishes that carried their channel.

Now, while they look for another satellite to broadcast from, DVB is relying on getting information out via its website and YouTube pages, as well through Facebook where it has 14 million followers.

"We never stopped, not even for a single day," said Toe Zaw Latt, DVB's operations director who recently fled the city.

A network of safe houses

Upon seizing power, the military cut all access to mobile data and wireless broadband, and until last week completely shut down the internet each night. Toe Zaw Latt said the junta's attempt to control all media and communication has created an "information vacuum" in the country, which it attempts to fill with military propaganda.

Journalists move carefully through a network of safe houses, plotting their routes before they go out to avoid military checkpoints. If they're stopped, security forces search their phones and cameras  any images of protests or the ousted civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi can be cause for arrest.

"Every day, once you decide to leave, you know that you may never make it back to your room or your safe house. But it is your decision," Toe Zaw Latt said.

Toe Zaw Latt tells his reporters: "Don't stay long on the ground, get the story, get out. Shoot and run. Cover your identity. Don't risk your life. There will be stories all the time. If it is too risky, don't take that risk."

They operate in small networks for their safety, and there are no bylines on news articles. Even uploading footage is dangerous, as the journalists often have to find someone willing to allow them to use their network.

"You have to make the file size very small, you have to upload to a particular network to get it out of Myanmar. Then people outside will access the cloud and upload," Toe Zaw Latt said. "I had to take risk on a daily basis to get internet access. You have to share [network connection] and you cannot let them know you are uploading files, as it is very scary."

Toe Zaw Latt is part of an old guard of exiled Myanmar media workers.

For half a century, Myanmar was ruled by successive military dictators until economic and political reforms began in 2011. For years, DVB relied on a clandestine network of video journalists who would bravely sneak footage out of the country so independent news could be broadcast into Myanmar.

Following the abolishment of pre-publication censorship in 2012, exiled media organizations that operated in Thailand or Europe began slowly moving back. Once blacklisted, journalists could now interview government ministers and report openly in the country.

In 2013, daily independent newspapers were allowed to publish for the first time since military rule. From 2015, under Aung San Suu Kyi's civilian National League for Democracy government, TV news channels like DVB were granted licenses, but journalists were still targeted with colonial era laws and defamation.

Press freedom was not great, journalists said, but it was better. And there was hope it would continue to improve. Myanmar ranks 140 out of 180 in the 2021 World Press Freedom Index, dropping one place from the year before.

Now, they have been forced to go back underground. Toe Zaw Latt said four DVB journalists have been arrested since the coup.

The former exiled journalists pass down their knowledge and experience to the younger generation who have suddenly found themselves the public enemy of a murderous regime intent on wiping out the truth and replacing it with its own.

As it's too dangerous for many to be out on the streets, media workers both inside and outside the country are relying on the bravery of citizen journalists. These are normal people filming or photographing, posting on social media and sending information to reporters.

Their videos, often shot from behind windows or walls, provide evidence of the military's shootings, beatings and other human rights abuses and counter the official narrative that security forces are using "minimum force" or independent media is "fake news."

"Lots of citizen journalists know that these kind of records are really important," said Toe Zaw Latt. "The [junta has been] accused of crimes against humanity. The more remote, the more abuses because no one is watching," he said. He described one instance where a man walked for 24 hours to reach a place with network connectivity so he could send a few photos about a conflict in this home state.

"They want to take a risk to tell the stories," he said.

Sacrificing freedom to report

For some that mental and emotional toll is great. Journalists say they wrestle with guilt and grief at leaving family and partners behind, or being the reason they have to flee, potentially putting them in danger.

"The painful part is, I said I'm sorry a thousand times to my partner. If not because of me, he didn't need to go [into hiding]," said Tin, a journalist for independent online news outlet Myanmar Now, who is using a pseudonym for her safety.

"When I go to sleep I just wish I could see a different morning, another day," said Tin. "The coup happened around 3 a.m. or 4 a.m. We woke up to the coup and woke up to the news. So whenever I go to sleep I wish that tomorrow morning I can see something different."

Tin said she feels guilty thinking about her hardships when others are going through so much worse. She draws strength when she thinks of the 760 people killed by the military since the coup.

"I keep reminding myself these are not just numbers, these are lives and families behind those numbers," she said.

Known for its investigations and hard-hitting features, Myanmar Now has been a loud and critical voice publishing in Burmese and English. International media, including CNN, often rely on its reporting, which has included reports on military's finances and business dealings with cronies and foreign ventures.

That has drawn the ire of the military. In mid-March, Myanmar Now's office was raided by security forces. Along with DVB, Myanmar Now was one of five to have their publishing license revoked.

But Tin said they have adapted to the challenging environment in ways they never thought they'd have to.

"A lot of time phone calls don't work. Or in areas where security forces are shooting, you can hear loud bangs or running or shooting. It has been difficult to get information so we keep calling around midnight or 11 p.m. when we think there should no longer be shooting," she said.

Tin said journalists are now faced with two choices: "If you want to keep reporting, you have to be exiled or in a place where they can't find you," she said. "You have to sacrifice freedom to report."

Military courts

That lack of freedom is something Brang Mai struggles with daily.

Brang Mai founded Myitkyina News Journal, an independent weekly, in 2012 with 30 employees covering the northern state of Kachin. On April 29, the military revoked the journal's publishing license.

"Everything is online. It's very dangerous to print, and we cannot find a place to work," he said.

Since the coup, three of his journalists have been arrested, and it has been a struggle to find out where they are, Brang Mai said. Once charged, trials are held, not in civilian courts, but within the prison walls, in secretive, military-run hearings.

The CPJ's Crispin said Myanmar's jails and prisons are like a "black box."

"Many just disappear inside prison, they're not given access to their families, they're not given access to lawyers, the news organizations are not allowed to contact them, so it's becoming a real black box as to what's happening to many journalists that are that are in jail," he said.

Brang Mai spends his days frantically organizing lawyers for his detained reporters, arranging security for their families and his other staff, hiring trustworthy drivers, and seeking out safe houses.

He moved back to his home town of Myitkyina to report on the country's opening up, but now fears being forced back into exile.

"We never thought that this would happen again. What we facing here is unbelievable," Brang Mai said. "All of a sudden everything vanished within a day or two. If we move out to another country, maybe we get asylum, we just have to restart from basics again."

Rise of alternative media

While some face the prospect of going into exile, others are creating new forms of media.

Subverting the junta's internet cuts and suppression of information, Myanmar's young people are printing underground newsletters and pamphlets and secretly distributing them in the streets. Some have revolutionary names like Molotov. Others, thrown from bridges or stuck to lampposts, feature news of the coup, arrests, military abuses, and even poems.

Activists have now launched a short wave radio station to reach the public and each other. Federal FM, formed in April by a group of activist volunteers, broadcasts news and updates on the political situation.

"Radio is one of most important things for public information because we know military is cutting internet and phones and news agencies their satellite has been taken away. So I know radio is the only way to inform the public about what's going on," said Nway Oo, presenter for Federal FM who uses a pseudonym for safety.

Federal FM is broadcast on 90.2 MHz on Thursdays and Sundays in Yangon and Mandalay, and aims to expand all over the country. Set up by members of the ethnic protest group General Strike Committee of Nationalities, their mission is to educate listeners about federalism  and hold the newly formed National Unity Government to account.

"From radio we are able to criticize and express our aims or goals for a federal union," Nway Oo said. Their purpose, she said is to "support the revolution by giving people the news and the peoples' voice."

Myanmar's journalists say they won't abandon the people

DVB's Toe Zaw Latt last month made the difficult decision to leave Yangon. The security situation there was untenable, he said. The military had re-imposed household registrations, a hangover from military rule where all house guests have to be registered so the military can keep tabs on who is staying where.

"They make it harder to hide. They know student leaders and celebrities are on the run, so it's to chase them down," he said.

Toe Zaw Latt, an Australian citizen, managed to make it to the airport and fly out last month. He is now in Australian quarantine.

"This is not over. There is a coup, there is a huge army with guns, but we are not going to give up. For journalists, of course, there is danger, we are facing huge difficulties, but we are not going to give up," he said.

For Ye Wint Thu, what's happening to his country is not new. He was four years old when his father was imprisoned for 10 years for being a democracy activist following the 1988 failed uprising against the then-military regime. This time, he believes the younger generation will not give up.

"They will keep protesting. Generation Z, they are the hope of the country of Burma," he said.

Like many journalists in Myanmar, Ye Wint Thu is determined to keep reporting.

"I can't plan at all because things are changing every day," he said. "[But] I'll stick as long as I can inside Burma, and do my job as best as I can."
ROCHESTER, Minn. - With days left until the Minnesota State Legislature ends, people are rallying for change. Soldiers Field Memorial Park was packed on Sunday with nearly 40 people asking Senators Dave Senjem and Carla Nelson to fund their futures.

"We want to make sure our local senators who actually have key positions are advancing and leading on providing enough resources so everyone can thrive," said rally attendee Nowell Bjerkass.

Community members and leaders with Faith in Minnesota, a political organization, met to ask the senators to fund childcare, paid family and medical leave, and affordable housing.

People like state representative Liz Boldon made speeches to try to bring change.

"The power of all of us, that is the power," said Boldon. "Our collective voice to make known what we want to see in our communities. The senate is also passing budget bills. Those bills look very very different. They are not centered on the people of our communities. They are centered around power for many wealthy Minnesotans."

Quality Kids Care Center Director Helen White also spoke, raising awareness about what educators deserve from Minnesota's government.

"Childcare providers and teachers deserve the same dignity and respect and honor from our state government that we give to the kids and families each day," explained White.

People in support of funding these issues are encouraged by the rally-goers to call their legislators and share posts on social media. The Minnesota State Legislature will be ending on May 17.
SMART transit will resume collecting fares July 6.

The announcement made Monday said the previous rates will remain the same.

Monthly Bus Passes

Monthly Deviated Route Pass  Adult $35.00

Monthly Deviated Route Pass  Senior/Student $30.00

* Prorated amount for passes purchased on 15th (or later) of each month

Tokens

Student - $1.00

Deviated Route - $2.00

Demand Response - $2.50

Demand Response County - $3.00

** County wide service  Outside City Limits

Austin-Albert Lea Shuttle - $3.50

Mankato Circle Run (Waseca) - $4.50

* Children five and under will remain free of charge with paid adult
ROCHESTER, Minn. - As people get back to work and hit the road for vacation this summer gas may be harder to come by in some locations.

Currently, CDL-certified drivers are in short supply with the National Tank Truck Carriers saying around 20-25% of tank truck drivers in the fleet are parked as we head into summer due to a lack of qualified drivers.

Early pandemic-related shutdowns contributed to the driver shortage as the demand for gasoline fell significantly.

Riverland Community College truck driving program director Johnathon Rymer says that means there may not be enough drivers to get fuel out as efficiently this summer.

Rymer said, It's expected by 2026, here in Minnesota we'll have a shortage of around 60,000 CDL drivers. So, it's going to be interesting to see how we come together and fix the problem.

Rymer says to offset the shortage Riverland Community College is working to get the word out among high school students and educate people about how they can turn truck driving into a career.

He explained, Whatever I can do to get the word out I'm there. Unfortunately, it seems like it just gets harder and harder to find people who are interested in truck driving as a career. That's too bad because the ones that have made it a career have all done very well. I don't know anyone that has made a career out of truck driving that has not done well.

Tanker operators are also raising pay to try and fill positions as well as raise the rates customers are charged.
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ST. LOUIS (KMOV.com) - A quick look through more than 300 pages of the City Justice Center (CJC) detainee roster paints a violent picture.

As of Saturday, the city said the CJC has around 450 detainees, with room for another 132 once several wings reopen following repairs to locks. Of those on the detainee roster as of April 8, News 4 found more than 160 detainees are charged with murder, around 115 are charged with assault and about 100 are charged with robbery.

'The first place they go is home,' City aims to remove inmates from Workhouse by July 1 The City of St. Louis wants all 340 inmates removed from the Medium Security Institution, also known as the Workhouse, by the beginning of July.

But on Monday, the city's director of policy and development, Nahuel Fefer, told News 4 a significant number of the city's detainees are considered "non-violent".

"Non-violent detainees, is, by the way, the vast majority of people," Fefer said. Fefer said with a significant number of non-violent offenders currently in jail, the goal is to have all of the detainees out of the Workhouse by July 1, whether that means revisiting their bond, dropping charges or moving detainees to the CJC.

"Our goal is to get as many as possible home and house the remainder at CJC," Fefer said.

The city plans to put non-violent offenders in front of judges to have their bond reset or reevaluated. City officials said they won't be acting unilaterally and will consult with prosecutors and judges to decide what the best course of action is for each individual person.

"We think this is good public safety policy," Fefer said. "Arrest and incarcerate is a failed model, it doesn't work." The policy is one the city said it would take to CJC as well, examining non-violent offenders and evaluating their situations.

"To be clear, the population at CJC is no different," he said. "These are all pre-trial detainees that are innocent until proven guilty."

The city said it is still compiling a detainee roster for the Workhouse and plans to release it soon. In 2019, the Missouri Supreme Court ruled judges are not allowed to set a bond that an offender would remain in jail for due to their inability to pay. Additionally, an offender's financial situation is weighed during the process, where judges are instructed by the law to set the least amount of restrictions that don't adversely affect public safety.

"There's a stronger presumption that people charged with crimes should be released before trial," said Lynette Petruska, a litigation attorney. "The factors the court looks at in terms of if someone is going to be released is whether they're going to appear for trial and whether they pose a danger to the community including the victims of the crime."

The ruling states public safety supersedes certain bond restrictions, meaning if someone is charged with a severe offense, bond is likely denied. Matt Vigil, a professor at St. Louis University School of Law, said in Missouri, non-violent offenses are not clearly defined in the state's criminal code.

"I think using a term that's not defined in the code is problematic and creates the ability to be subjective," he said.

Vigil said prior to 2019, courts didn't take into account an offender's ability to pay bond. He said that resulted in many people being incarcerated because they were unable to post their bond.

"Now, it creates the presumption you should get recognizance unless either you're going to be a danger to society, either victims or witnesses or that your appearance won't be assured," he said.

Several attorneys told News 4 a non-violent offender being held on no bond likely has a criminal history that gives a judge pause. Behavior while previously out on bond can also be considered.
Here's what you need to know: Monday, May 3
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Family of Andrew Brown Jr. remembers his life and calls for justice in his death at his funeral
This graph shows the numbers of unique individuals tested for COVID-19 in Indiana since the start of the pandemic. On Monday, Indiana passed the 50% mark, meaning half of all Hoosiers have been tested for COVID-19 at least once in the past 14 months.
Auburn, IN (46706)

Today

Showers this morning then scattered thunderstorms developing during the afternoon hours. High 79F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 60%..

Tonight

Mostly cloudy skies. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low near 65F. Winds light and variable.
Pocatello, ID (83201)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun. High near 85F. Winds SSW at 15 to 25 mph. Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph..

Tonight

Some clouds this evening will give way to mainly clear skies overnight. Low 52F. Winds S at 15 to 25 mph. Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph.
Ho Khanh, a farmer in central Vietnam, while looking for shelter from a storm, discovered a small entrance to what would soon be known as the world's largest cave system. He reported what he discovered to the British Caving Research Association, but the cave wasn't actually explored until 2009 which was the first time it was explored.

Son Doong was instantly crowned the largest of its kind in the world after the first journey into the cave.

Mountain River Cave

Hang Son Doong, which means Mountain River Cave, is located at Phong Nha Ke Bong National Park in the Quang Binh province of Central Vietnam. The cave is approximately 30 miles northwest of Dong Hoi which is a coastal Vietnamese city.

Son Doong has existed for 3 million years and it is 1.35 billion cubic feet long. For context, the cave is so enormous to the extent a New York City block containing 40 skyscrapers could fit in its depths, and a Boeing 747 could perfectly fit in its biggest passage.

A team of divers in 2019 found out that the cave is attached to another cave, Hang Thung, elaborating the cave system - and seemingly without end. The cave is so developed it even has a rainforest, weather system, and a fascinating display of uncommon limestone cave pearls.

Also Read: Bizarre 50,000-Year-Old Life Forms Found Trapped in Cave Crystals in Mexico

Creatures Discovered in Son Doong

There is no proof of the cave having been toured by humans before the 2000s, but other forms of creature caught on to the Son Doong's magic before we did. Birds, flying foxes, rats, snakes, squirrels, and monkeys, have been discovered underground; and seven new species of eyeless, white creatures (think scorpion, spiders, shrimp, and fish) have been found there.



You can weave your way through the world's largest cave system for $3,000. The four-day-long expedition will be an adventure you'll never forget in a hurry. On your first night, you'll pass a night in Hang En Cave - the world's third-largest cave - and then spend the other two nights exploring Son Doong.

The Journey

You'll walk through over 5 miles of caves and 15 miles of jungle. During your journey, you might come across 400-million-year old fossils, run into bizarre, eyeless creatures, sight stalagmites that are more than 200 feet tall, and even swim in the cave's inky-black waters.

The only tour operator that accompanies people into the cave is Oxalis. The tours are capped at just 10 people and run from February till August.

Only 1,000 individuals are permitted to journey through the cave system in a year, so have your tour booked in advance! To make the journey run as smoothly and safely and as possible, a crew of caving experts, chefs, park rangers, and local guides, are available for every single expedition.

Related Article: A Hidden 'Breeding Cave' of the World's Rarest Seals Found in Cyprus

For more news, updates about caves and similar topics don't forget to follow Nature World News!
The Montana Department of Revenue warns all Montanans to be aware of numerous scams and frauds related to their tax information and refunds.

Some common tax season scams include:

Paying for a refund: If a caller says they have your tax refund, but youll have to pay a fee to receive it, its a scam. The Department of Revenue will never demand money before giving you your refund.

Threatening arrest, or seizure of your property: Taxpayers have received letters saying they owe taxes to Montana, and that the state will seize their property, or even file a warrant for their arrest.

Unclaimed Property, for a fee: The Department of Revenue returns unclaimed assets, such as insurance payouts, mineral royalties or old bank balances, to thousands of Montanans each year. You do not have to pay a fee to collect your own unclaimed property if you submit a claim directly with the department. Search at https://tap.dor.mt.gov to see if you have property with the department.

Phishing for data: Dont click links on unsolicited emails. These links could infect your computer with malware that can jeopardize the security of your personal data such as your Social Security Number or banking information.

The Department of Revenue may contact individual taxpayers or businesses by phone, but in nearly all cases they will call only after sending at least one letter by U.S. mail. According to a release, such calls may come from the Collections Unit to discuss past-due taxes or a payment plan, or to verify information. For more information on Identity Verification letters, you can visit MTRevenue.gov/fraud.

Do not provide personal information if you are not sure who you are talking to. To verify a call or a letter you received is from the Department of Revenue, call our Call Center at (406) 444-6900.

Montana and federal individual income tax returns are due May 17.
Weather Alert

...FIRE WEATHER WATCH IN EFFECT FROM THURSDAY MORNING THROUGH THURSDAY EVENING... The National Weather Service in Billings has issued a Fire Weather Watch...which is in effect from Thursday morning through Thursday evening. * IMPACTS: Low humidities, hot temperatures, strong gusty winds, and wind shift with a cold front, will create erratic fire behavior. * AFFECTED AREA: In North Central WY Fire Zone...274. In South Central MT Fire Zones...127...128...129. In Southeast MT Fire Zones...130...131...132. In Southeast MT and Northwest SD Fire Zone...133. * COUNTIES AFFECTED: In Central MT...Golden Valley...Musselshell. In North Central WY...Sheridan. In Northwest SD...Harding. In South Central MT...Big Horn...Carbon...Yellowstone. In Southeast MT...Carter...Custer...Fallon...Powder River Rosebud...Treasure. * HUMIDITY: 12 to 18 percent. * TEMPERATURES: Highs in the upper 80s to mid 90s. * WIND: West 30 to 40 mph with gusts up to 55 mph. * COLD FRONT: Cold front will push through Thursday afternoon and evening and switch winds to the northwest. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... A Fire Weather Watch means that critical fire weather conditions are forecast to occur. Listen for later forecasts and possible Red Flag Warnings. &&

...HIGH WIND WATCH IN EFFECT FROM THURSDAY AFTERNOON THROUGH LATE THURSDAY NIGHT... * WHAT...West to northwest winds 30 to 45 mph with gusts up to 60 mph possible. * WHERE...Portions of central, south central, and southeast Montana. Portions of north central Wyoming. * WHEN...From Thursday afternoon through late Thursday night. * IMPACTS...Damaging winds could blow down trees and power lines. Power outages are possible. Travel could be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Low humidity in combination with strong winds will cause fire weather concerns as well. Be careful to not cause a spark. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... Monitor the latest forecasts and warnings for updates. &&
Young activists are reviving the long-running discussion about climate justice. The discourse frames global warming as an ethical rather than strictly environmental concern.

Reminding World Leaders

As world leaders took to the (virtual) stage at President Biden's climate summit, Xiye Bastida, a 19-year-old climate protester, gave them a friendly reprimand.

If you missed my speech, you can watch it here  https://t.co/UpO4mO1x2m  Xiye Bastida (@xiyebastida) April 22, 2021

"Solutions must take into account the fact that climate justice is social justice," she said, repeating Greta Thunberg's sentiments.

The Mexican-born teenager is part of a new wave of climate campaigners who are calling attention to environmental and social injustices that they argue are wreaking havoc on people's lives worldwide.

Her comments break through the clutter in a video that has been watched over a quarter million times.

Related Article: Environmental Justice Goes Mainstream with Governmental Support

Younger Generations Getting Involved

Harriet Lamb of the climate solutions charity, Ashden, says people have been talking about climate injustice for decades, but young activists are giving it new momentum.

"It has undoubtedly changed the agenda," she says.

For her, climate justice is about making sure we address historic injustices over emissions, including the carbon footprint of the wealthy, whose lifestyles have contributed most to global warming.

Around the same time, climate change disproportionately affects people who have contributed the least to greenhouse emissions and who have the fewest opportunities to address it because they are poor.

The world's most glaring inequality can be seen in the world's poorest nations, where residents who leave just a small carbon footprint are on the front lines of global chaos, from flooding to destroyed crops. However, there are warnings about carbon disparity even in affluent countries like the United Kingdom.

Call for Environmental Justice

According to Amy Norman, a researcher at The Social Market Foundation, policymakers must be honest with voters about what the change to net-zero would entail for our way of life.

She believes there is a risk of a cultural and political uproar over questions of unfairness, which may jeopardize confidence and, potentially, the move to net-zero (removing as many emissions as we produce).

"We need to make a complete economic and cultural change and transformation," she says.

"Politicians need to get the electorate on board to get them along - if you strike lower-income people where it hurts financially, you're going to lose support easily, particularly if it's seen as unjust."

There are a few issues that policymakers must grapple with as they figure out how to follow up with their pledges to reduce pollution.

Social Inequalities

According to Norman, a program of assistance for low-income families to help cover the costs of electric cars and incentives for local governments to build public charging stations is required.

When looking at pollution from a national perspective, issues of climate justice become even more apparent.

According to studies, the cumulative pollution of the world's richest 1% account for more than half of the world's bad.

Rising temperatures would have the greatest economic effects in the global south, with lower wages becoming more vulnerable to flooding, drought, and extreme weather.

Best Possible Solution

According researcher Dr. Bjoern Soergel of Germany's Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Studies, the move to net-zero could result in higher food and energy costs, which would disproportionately affect the poor.

However, he claims that there is a "win-win" scenario in which the environment can be protected while global poverty is reduced. Carbon taxation - basically a carbon tax on polluting fossil fuels - will be implemented, with states redistributing part of the gains per capita.

Richer nations will then have to donate a percentage of their wealth to countries of severe poverty.

According to Harriet Lamb, policies aimed at encouraging healthier, greener living risk exacerbate current socioeconomic divides and derail a net-zero planet's transition.

Although climate injustice has been discussed for decades, it is now being given new life by younger activists.

Also Read: Creating Socially Just Population Policies Advances Global Equity AND Mitigates Climate Change

For more news update about Environmental Action, don't forget to follow Nature World News!
A boat captain is in custody after a vessel believed to be smuggling people into the US crashed off the San Diego, California shore.

Officials say the 40-foot cabin cruiser was overcrowded with 30 people on board.

Twenty-seven people were taken to area hospitals, three people died.

The boat crashed into the reef where it broke apart.

Multiple agencies were called in to help with the incident, including fire and rescue, the coast guard and border patrol.

Officials are still investigating where the boat originated from.

Border patrol agents said there had been an increase in a number of illegal crossings at sea and had ramped up coastal patrols this weekend as a result.
Wildlife authorities confirmed that a Colorado woman walking her dogs was found dead near her home in what appears to be a bear attack.

Bear Attack

According to Colorado Parks and Wildlife spokesman Jason Clay, the body of the 39-year-old missing woman was found near Durango on Friday by her partner after she failed to return home. Hours earlier, the two dogs had returned to her house without her.

According to a CPW release, wildlife officers responded and found "signs of consumption on the fur, as well as an excess of bear scat and hair at the scene."

Related Article: 'It was bleeding, but not terrible': Bear Bit Woman's Butt While Sitting in Toilet



Forensic Report

Following an autopsy, an official cause of death will be determined.

The woman's identity was kept a secret. According to officials, while an autopsy was pending, authorities discovered bear hair, scat, and "signs of feeding" on the body.

A dog squad was immediately dispatched by CPW, who discovered a 10-year-old female black bear with two yearlings nearby. The remains of all three animals were euthanized and will be tested at the CPW's Wildlife Health Lab.

The bears' bodies were taken to the state wildlife laboratory for necropsy. A forensic laboratory in Wyoming will examine the DNA samples.

Colorado Black Bear Population

According to a state wildlife spokeswoman, Colorado is home to an estimated 19,000 black bears. The department has reported three other deadly black bear attacks on humans since it started monitoring them 61 years ago.

"This is a horrific occurrence that serves as a sad reminder that bears are wild and potentially dangerous," said Cory Chick, area manager for the state wildlife department. "The bears were removed for public safety reasons due to an excess of caution."

Related Article: Giant Pandas Mate in French Zoo; Keepers Anticipating Succesful Pregnancy



Colorado Bear Attacks

He described bear attacks as "extremely rare." In Colorado, the most recent deadly bear attack occurred in 2009.

The only bears seen in Colorado are black bears, who are named after their species rather than their color.

Black bears are involved in the spring, according to the spokesperson, and there have been some sightings near Durango. According to him, a bear was seen rummaging through a trash bin and pulling down a bird feeder outside a home near the Animas River.

Chick urged the public to stay away from the area while the CPW and La Plata County officials investigate. Wildlife officers worked all night and into the morning to process the scene, searching for proof that the attack was caused by a bear.

Several residents in the Durango region have registered bears this season, with one taking down a bird feeder, but this is the first attack.

Similar Incident

Carl Mock, a 40-year-old Montana wilderness guide, was fatally mauled by a grizzly outside Yellowstone National Park last month. Officials believe the grizzly was guarding a moose carcass. While fishing near a campground, Mock was targeted.

Also Read: How To Survive Grizzly Bear Attack: Simple Tips that Will Keep You Alive



For more wildlife news, don't forget to follow Nature World News!
ROME, MAY 3 - COVID-19 Emergency Commissioner Francesco Figliuolo said Monday that Italy may start giving the Astrazeneca coronavirus jab to under-60s again in order to keep the country's vaccination campaign moving at speed. The Italian authorities at the moment do not recommend giving the Astrazeneca COVID-19 vaccine to under-60s after the European Medicines Agency (EMA) said it could be linked to some rare cases of blood clots in young people, while stressing that the benefits of the jab outweighed the risks. "All the vaccines should be used," said Figliuolo "Astrazeneca is recommended for certain groups but the EMA says that it is OK for everyone. "There are side effects, but they are infinitesimal. "If we don't use all the vaccines, the pace of the campaign will not hit the targets in the set time". (ANSA).
ROME, MAY 3 - An Italian navy frigate on Monday saved seven Italian trawlers from the imminent arrival of a speeding Libyan dinghy, Defence Undersecretary Stefania Pucciarelli told reporters. "The Italian crafts, which were carrying out fishing activities in international waters, were saved and are heading north in the central Mediterranean," she said. Incidents between Libyan navy vessels and Italian trawlers are fairly frequent. Libya regularly seizes trawlers it says are fishing in its waters. (ANSA).
VATICAN CITY, MAY 3 - Pope Francis will open a meeting on the demographic crisis facing Italy and other nations, entitled "General States of Birth" on May 14, the Holy See said Monday, according to Vatican News. It said the Covid-19 pandemic has only worsened a preexisting trend in declining birthrates in Italy, as the nation ages and policies to promote births have had little impact. Organized by the "Forum for Family Associations", the event will be held on 14 May at the Auditorium Conciliazione, just a stone's throw away from the Vatican. According to a press release from the Forum, the online initiative will deal with the demographic crisis "which has become even more important due to the pandemic, which has resulted in over 1 million more poor families" in Italy. The main goal of the event is to "launch an appeal for mutual responsibility to get the country moving again, beginning with new births." (ANSA).
SALEM  House Speaker Tina Kotek has introduced a resolution to expel state Rep. Mike Nearman, following new evidence that Nearman plotted wit
A government study in South Africa may have just begun the process of eliminating the use of captivity-raised lions for trophy hunting and other practices that are deemed inhumane. This shift could be seen as a positive development for many conservationists who desire the end of South Africa's dependence on big game hunting in wildlife tourism.

Lion farms in South Africa pose massive resistance

The soon-to-be illegal lion breeding practice has been one of the many sources of controversy in the country. There are some farms that boast all the best resources for raising the vulnerable species, all while claiming to operate in alignment with conservation goals and regulations.

In reality, however, these farms are just barely regulated and the blindspots have led to all sorts of abuses. Experts say that a lion's life in these farms is far from healthy. The food has often been substandard (if not diseased). Their enclosures are cramped, and their development is greatly impaired by routine domestication.

Cubs are often reduced to petting zoo props, and when they become too old and aggressive to be near visitors, they are then shipped off to become hunted in low-quality hunting sessions. All of this is also further funded by demand for lion skin, bone and claws to be used in jewelry and traditional medicines.

The real challenge, however, is that this trend grew into an industry that has (at least in part) contributed to more funds for poor, local communities.

Some critics argue that is a new form of exploitation that has replaced poaching and yet, any measure that will see the banning of this trade could have unintended economic consequences.

Also read: Suspected Poisoning and Dismemberment: Lions Found Dead in Natural Park

Does illegal lion breeding fuel big game hunting?

While the study has set the possibility of a ban in motion, it may not necessarily result in a ban on trophy hunting. In fact, the government was specific in targeting the captive-bred lion industry and the domestication of the big cat. To date, it was estimated that about 10,000 lions are born into these farms as opposed to less than half that number officially documented in the wild.

Meanwhile, the same wild lions are still within the sights of many high-profile big game hunters who continue to support what they believe to be an integral part of wildlife tourism. Big game hunting reservations also take responsibility in ensuring wild lions are not poached illegally and prevent the animals from attacking livestock.

And much like the lion farms, a hasty ban on all hunting activities could cut off economic support for poorer communities (who have nothing but the maintenance of these game reserves to sustain them).

It would seem that the more realistic expectation would be that the ban on captive lions is aimed towards returning more big cats to the wild, and see further restoration to South Africa's ecosystems. This may entail a need to provide a more 'authentic' experience of hunting lions in the wild for high-paying tourists, but there are still signs of hope for a future with less conflict between lion and man.

Also read: Animals' Ultimate Sensory Tool: How Do Whiskers Really Work?
Eager to get out and inhale fresh air, cooped-up humans fled pandemic tedium last spring, crowding parks, campsites, trails and other outdoor spaces.

And why not? If you want to clear your head and lift your mood, there are worse ways to do it than by basking in nature.

If you can capture the experience and share it with others later, its hard for some of us to resist taking a few photos.

Every so often, farmers and their crops find themselves the focus of these would-be Kodak moments. Brad Weinhofer knows this feeling.

The Express-Times, based in Easton, Pennsylvania, reports that Weinhofer Farms plants 150 to 200 acres of canola for a June harvest. Canola, which is commonly grown in Canada, also does well in the cooler climate of Pennsylvania. Its planted in fall and goes dormant during colder months. It grows in spring and then blooms in mid- to late May.

A year ago, as Weinhofers canola plants grew tall and then burst forth into an expanse of bright yellow flowers, the number of visitors arriving to take in the view exceeded that of past years. And so did the problems.

Two-lane roads with no place to park near the canola crop were choked with cars, and drivers blocked traffic and parked in nearby driveways. Some people walked into fields and stomped on plants. No Trespassing signs and crime-scene tape were used by farmers to send a message. It was a pretty overwhelming problem, Lehigh Township police Chief Scott Fogel told the Express-Times.

Visitors Flock to Flowers

Canola, developed in the 1970s by Canadian plant scientists, is a blend of the words Canada and oil, according to canolagrowers.com. The oil is used for cooking and baking, as well as for biodiesel and bioplastics. The canola meal, the part remaining after the seeds are crushed and the oil is extracted, is used for animal feeds, pet food and fertilizer.

Canola plants grow to roughly 3 to 5 feet in height, and the eye appeal of the flowers seems to exert a similar pull on the other side of the globe.

News reports out of Australia describe how, amid COVID-19 restrictions last fall, the country town of Cowra attracted hordes of gawkers from the cities of Sydney and Canberra during growing season.

They came in droves, all for the canola, said a local photographer.

The business community welcomed the influx of tourists and their dollars, since in 2019 the region had suffered through one of the worst droughts on record. The canola dried up along with other crops.

But the rain returned in 2020 and the fields flourished. Then came the carloads of people.

As they did to another town, Berrima, where some crossed the line of good behavior, breaking fences and trampling crops. Farmers asked visitors to take their photos from a distance for the sake of safety.

Its a basic premise of life that you dont trespass on other peoples property, not to mention theres bees in there and snakes, said one farmer.

Bees! Snakes! Australia is known for having some of the deadliest species in the world, so thats a message that might keep even the most aggressive shutterbugs at bay.

Back in Pennsylvania, as the bloom of the canola plants nears, Weinhofer is appealing to those who want to see the flowers to respect his livelihood and the property.

Its only a handful of people, Weinhofer said, but it ruins it for everybody.

Maybe posting Warning, Venomous Snakes signs would help keep out the overzealous few as well. But I wouldnt count on it.

I think Weinhofers courteous message to others concerning his investment  enjoy, dont destroy  probably makes more sense.

Hopefully, certain sightseers toting cellphones and cameras will get the picture this time around.
A suspected smuggling boat crashed into a reef and capsized off the San Diego coast on Sunday, leaving three dead and 27 others injured. Authorities described the boat utilized in the suspected smuggling operation as a 40-foot cabin cruiser, The San Diego Union-Tribune reported. The said boat was spotted by the authorities off the coast of Point Loma before 10 in the morning.

Jose Ysea, spokesman for the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department, noted that that the 27 passengers had sustained "varying degrees of injuries." All victims were taken to local hospitals.

READ NEXT: Smugglers Drop Mom, 2 Kids From Atop 30-Foot Border Wall by Rope: Border Patrol

Boat Crashed in San Diego Coast

The boat utilized in the suspected smuggling operation hit the reef near Point Loma, causing the passengers to jump off the boat, New York Post reported. San Diego lifeguard Lt. Rick Romero shared that the boat had broken apart when it hit the said reef near the Point Loma Peninsula.

"It is very rocky over there, and the waves, while they weren't too high, they looked pretty strong," Ysea said. He also noted that the strength of the waves crashing on the boat is enough to slam the transportation into the rocks.

Romero added that they saw people drowning and "getting sucked out the rip current," while there were people on the shore. He further mentioned to Associated Press that they rescued about seven from the waves, including the three people who were dead. Romero noted that the numbers of people they rescued kept on increasing.

"Conditions were pretty rough: five to six feet of surf, windy, cold," Romero said.

The total number of individuals rescued by the authorities is 30, composed of 22 who managed to make it to the shore on their own, one person rescued from the cliff, and the seven people rescued from the waves.

Moreover, authorities emphasized that there were life preservers present in the boat. However, it was not clear whether how many or if any passengers were wearing them.

A Suspected Smuggling Boat

Officials emphasized that the 40-foot boat was overloaded. Authorities furthered that the boat utilized is larger than the "typical open-top wooden panga-style" boats. These kinds of boats were reported to be used by smugglers in bringing undocumented migrants into the United States.

Moreover, New York Post mentioned that border patrol agents typically spot the boats off the coast of San Diego. The outlet added that the boats usually spotted by authorities are overcrowded, unsafe, and not well equipped.

"Every indication from our perspective was this was a smuggling vessel," said Jeff Stephenson, a supervising agent from the U.S. Border Patrol.

Agents are dispatched to the hospitals preparing to interview the survivors of the tragic incident on the San Diego coast. San Diego fire officials noted that they assigned 93 people to work on the incident. Medics, engine crews, and chaplains were among the people assigned.

Meanwhile, the boat captain will also be interviewed. Stephenson described the captain as the smuggler. The authorities have not yet identified the nationalities of the individuals who were rescued.

READ MORE: Ecuador Children Dropped by Smugglers in the US Mexico Border Reunite With Parents

WATCH: 3 dead, 27 injured when suspected smuggling boat capsizes off coast of Point Loma - from The San Diego Union-Tribune
A federal judge has ruled that the Columbus Police should not use force against nonviolent protesters.

Chief Judge Algenon L. Marbley of the Southern District of Ohio released the 88-page opinion on Friday. He described the officers' use of physical violence, tear gas, and pepper spray as "power of the state, run amok."

Marbley also ordered the Columbus Police officers to be restrained from using other weapons and practices, such as flash-bang grenades, rubber bullets, and body slams against nonviolent protesters, according to The Hill report.

The judge sided with the 26 plaintiffs who protested last summer. He ruled that the Columbus Police Department had used force "indiscriminately" and without provocation during the widespread protests last May and June.

"We are pleased that the Court recognized the truth of the overwhelming testimony, shocking videos, and heart-wrenching pictures and issued an injunction which protects the people from the police," Sean Walton, the attorney representing the plaintiffs, was quoted in a Washington Post report.

The letter said that they need to change the culture of the Columbus Division of Police.

Interim Columbus Chief Thomas Quinlan was forced out of the department.

Mayor Andrew Ginther said that he had lost confidence in the chief's ability to make the needed changes, according to an Associated Press report.

Police also testified before Marbley, noting chaotic and threatening situations.

Officer Anthony Johnson said that people walked up to them with bottles, opened them, and threw unknown liquids on their faces.

READ MORE: DOJ to Probe Louisville Police After Breonna Taylor's Death

Police Practices Probe

In April, the Justice Department has opened a civil investigation into the policing practices of Minneapolis Police.

This was a day after a jury convicted former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin for the murder of George Floyd, according to a Voice of America News report.

Attorney General Merrick Garland announced the news.

Garland said that building trust between the community and law enforcement will take time and effort. He also added that they undertake this task with determination and urgency, knowing that change cannot wait.

Minneapolis Police Chief Medaria Arradondo said that the investigation is a welcome effort, adding that his department would cooperate fully.

The following week the Justice Department announced that it will start a civil probe on policing practices on Louisville, Kentucky police department.

This in light of the fatally shot Breonna Taylor in a "no-knock" raid.

Garland said that it will evaluate the police routinely using unreasonable force, according to a Reuters report.

Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer also welcomed the department's investigation, saying that they have been building for this type of audit for months.

Louisville Police Department Chief Erika Shield said that they will be pushing for more resources, more training, as well as other tools aside from lethal force.

The civil probes into policing practices in Minneapolis and Louisville are separate from the department's civil rights investigation and into the killings of Floyd and Taylor.

The deaths of Floyd and Taylor triggered nationwide protests against racism and police brutality.

READ MORE: West Coast Cities Show Outrage on Breonna Taylor's Death Anniversary

WATCH: Five Columbus police officers remain under investigation from summer protests - from NBC 4 Columbus




Colombia's President Ivan Duque has withdrawn a contentious tax reform bill following the deadly mass protests in the past days.

Al Jazeera reported that the president of Colombia announced he was withdrawing the tax reform proposal on Sunday.

Thousands of protesters in Colombia gathered on the streets and demonstrated against the proposed tax reform after it was announced last Wednesday.

Under President Ivan Duque, the Colombian government wants to tax the income of those earning over $656 a month, lowering the threshold to broaden the tax base.

The government also wants to impose a tax on funerals and essential services in upper-middle-class areas. The government's proposed measure is reportedly intended to raise some $6.3 billion in 10 years for the country.

Apart from the citizens, the tax reform proposal also garnered opposition from many Colombian lawmakers, including those from the coalition of parties that support Ivan Duque's administration.

READ NEXT: 104-Year-Old Colombian Woman Contracts, Beats COVID-19 Twice

Colombia's President Withdrawing The Tax Reform

The president's announcement was aired on the television, saying that his government would work to produce new proposals and pursue an agreement with other parties and organizations, BBC reported.

The canceled plan featured expanded taxes on citizens and business owners and increased sales tax on utilities and some food.

The Colombian government insisted that the plan is important in stabilizing the country's finances while maintaining its credit rating and funding for social programs, Reuters reported.

"I am asking Congress to withdraw the law proposed by the finance ministry," said Duque, adding a directive to urgently process a new law that is "fruitful of consensus" to prevent financial uncertainty.

Reuters noted that Colombia's Central Bank warned last Friday that failure to approve the tax reform could harm the economy. However, many working-class Colombians are already struggling due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The citizens argued that the reform would significantly affect them.

"It is a moment for all of us to work together without paltriness," said Duque in his statement, adding that not pursuing the tax reform will allow them to state clearly that there will be no increase in VAT for goods and services.

Colombian Protesters Celebrate the Tax Reform Withdrawal

Lawmakers, unions, and other groups welcomed the announcement as a victory. Celebratory "cacerolazos," a traditional protest where people beat pans and pots, could be heard in some neighborhoods.

Deaths related to the protests were reported around Colombia since it began on Wednesday. Most violent demonstrations were reported in Cali, where Reuters noted that three deaths had been confirmed.

Cali is known to be the third-largest city in Colombia. One death each was reported in Neiva city and Madrid, while a police officer was killed in Soacha.

Human rights groups had reported police abuses and alleged that there were more than 20 deaths. The groups emphasized that police abuses took place, especially in Cali.

There is no definite national count of deaths connected to protests yet. But the procurator's office said it was investigating 14 deaths across the country.

Despite withdrawing the tax reform, Duque still stressed on Sunday that the tax reform remains necessary. The Colombian president noted that there was a consensus on the need for temporary taxes on businesses and dividends and an increase in income tax for the wealthiest.

READ MORE: Thousands of Venezuelans Seek Refuge in Colombia Amid Border Dispute

WATCH: Colombia's President Withdraws Tax Bill Amid Protests - From Bloomberg Quicktake: Now
On National Space Day on May 7, the New Mexico Museum of Space History will re-open to the public. The said museum is a division of the state's Department of Cultural Affairs in Alamogordo.

The New Mexico Museum of Space History will open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. starting Wednesday until Sunday at a limited capacity.

Based on the latest update, it will be closed on Monday and Tuesday. There is also a temporary reduction on each individual's $5 entry fee because of an ongoing renovation and other projects.

Constructions and Renovations

According to KFOX14, the Executive Director of the New Mexico Museum, Christopher Orwoll, shared that they are all very excited about welcoming the public back into the museum.

The museum director added that while the museum has been closed, they have done a lot of work, and it will continue. Orwoll asked the public to pardon the dust in the museum as they continue the much-needed upgrades all over the building.

The majority of exhibits will remain open, while the newly renovated "Human Spaceflight Gallery" will be open for the first time to the public.

Located on the third floor of the museum, the gallery highlights suits and equipment used on the world's first excursions to space. In addition, a number of never-before-seen artifacts from the archives of the museum will be on display in its re-opening.

It includes two items of particular interest to New Mexico: the Omega Chronograph watch worn by New Mexican astronaut Jack Schmitt during the Apollo 17 mission in 1972 and the EKG that John Glenn took at the Lovelace Clinic in Albuquerque just before he becomes one of the first astronauts of America in 1960, Los Alamos Daily Post reported.

READ NEXT: Can Cuba Become the 1st Latin American Country to Develop Its Own COVID Vaccine?

More Artifacts at the New Mexico Museum of Space History

In the next few months, more artifacts would be added to the gallery. The gallery is only the first one in the five-year refurbishment of all the galleries and exhibits inside the museum.

A new major exhibit will arise in the New Mexico Museum soon. The construction of "Science Fact vs. Science Fiction" will start soon, which will give visitors a unique experience in seeing an exhibit built from the ground up.

The construction will last for two to three months, and visitors will witness artifact cases being installed and graphic elements being applied. Also, the International Space Hall of Fame Gift Shop inside the museum will re-open on May 7. The Space Hall Gift Shop at the White Sands Mall will also continue in its operations.

Orwoll noted that many of their ongoing projects at the New Mexico Museum of Space History were needed for years, "if not decades."

He also said that the replacement of their 40-year-old elevator was on top of their priority list. Orwoll added that they have also renovated restrooms campus-wide and upgraded electrical and security lights.

Orwoll said many other projects would not have been possible without the support of the Legislature, Department of Cultural Affairs, and the community leaders, Alamogordo Daily News reported.

READ MORE: Scientists Support Brazil's Move to Ban Sputnik V COVID Vaccine

WATCH: New Mexico Museum of Space History Re-Opens - From New Mexico Museum of Space History
Lubbock, Texas has just become a "sanctuary city for the unborn" after its residents voted to ban abortion completely, which makes it the 24th city in Texas to pass the measure.

"Today is a victory for life and proof that the silent majority will still stand up for its Christian conservative values," said Republican state Rep. Dustin Burrows as reported by Washington Examiner.

Lubbock voters supported "Proposition A," which prohibited abortions without any exceptions. Sixty-two percent voted in its favor, while 38 percent of voters opposed it.

The ordinance said it shall be unlawful for any individual to procure or perform an abortion at any stage of pregnancy in Lubbock.

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Texas has opposed the anti-abortion ordinances, suing seven cities in Texas in the past.

READ NEXT: Texas Lawmaker Seeks Death Penalty for Women Who Get Abortions

Abortion Stance

The ACLU said the organization has a long history of "challenging unconstitutional abortion bans and will continue to fight to protect the fundamental rights of the people of Lubbock," Daily Caller reported.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has not publicly declared his stance on the abortion measure in the state. However, he signed a ban on "sanctuary cities," with respect to illegal immigration in 2017.

Planned Parenthood has been involved in major legal fights over the issue of abortion. The health organization also provides abortion services in Lubbock.

A Planned Parenthood spokesperson said that they want Lubbock residents to know that their doors are open, and they will continue to support their patients, according to The Hill.

Meanwhile, it is unclear when will the ordinance will be implemented completely. Execution of the measure will not be carried out by the government but relies almost entirely on citizens filing legal actions against violators. With the legal challenges, the U.S. Supreme Court might have to hear a case on the issue.

Texas Tech University constitutional law professor Richard D. Rosen said that the lawsuits would ultimately fail as long as "Roe is good law." Rosen added that it could make abortion providers disburse money for attorneys' fees.

Abortion in The U.S.

In 2017, around 862,320 abortions were done in clinical facilities in the U.S. The U.S. Supreme Court recognized the constitutional right to abortion in the Roe v. Wade decision in 1973. It has also reaffirmed that right in subsequent decisions, according to a Guttmacher report.

Since 2010, the country's abortion landscape has grown increasingly with limits as more states adopt laws opposed to abortion rights.

Between 2011 and 2019, states imposed 483 new abortion restrictions, and these account for about 40 percent of all abortion restrictions imposed by states.

Alabama legislators voted to ban abortions in about all cases in 2019, while Louisiana limited the procedure to earlier in pregnancy, The New York Times reported.

A total of 55,440 abortions were done in Texas in 2017. However, not all abortions involved state residents. Some patients may have traveled from other states.

Other Texas residents may have also traveled to another state for an abortion. There was a three percent reduction in the abortion rate in Texas in the years between 2014 and 2017.

READ MORE: Trump Signs 'Born Alive' Executive Order to Protect Infants That Survived Abortion

WATCH: Founder of Pro-Life Movement in Texas, Mark Lee Dickson, Discusses Sanctuary Cities for the Unborn - From EWTN






International critics slammed the members of El Salvador's Congress who voted to oust magistrates on the country's supreme court. Critics described that the movement aims to obliterate any opposition to the president's firm grip on power, Al Jazeera reported.

The vote came on the first day that lawmakers from the president's New Ideas party have shown firm control over the Congress, Reuters reported. The said party garnered more than two-thirds "supermajority" in the unicameral legislature after the midterm elections.

READ NEXT: 4 Mexican Cops Charged With Salvadoran Woman's Death in Mexico

El Salvador Congress Ousts Top Supreme Court Judges

The voting happened on Saturday, where the legislative assembly supported the dismissal of all the justices in the Supreme Court's constitutional chamber, as they issue "arbitrary" decisions. The motion to remove the judges passed with 64 votes in favor or nearly 80 percent of the 84-seat legislature.

Elin Rosales, a New Ideas legislative leader noted that the movement is necessary to address COVID-19 concerns. Rosales furthered that there is "clear evidence" that the five judges who were ousted hindered El Salvador's health strategy.

Attorney General Raul Melara, who is considered close to the opposing party, was also dismissed from his post as lawmakers voted to oust him. Meanwhile, Reuters noted that the five judges who were dismissed were among the few remaining checks on Bukele's power. The said judges were also reported to be the most powerful jurists among the 15-member court.

Views From Other Organizations

The movement has sparked sympathy from organizations, and even concerned the United States.

U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken talked with El Salvador's president regarding the voting, Associated Press reported.

"An independent judiciary is essential to democratic governance," said Blinken. Moreover, Blinken also expressed his concerns over the dismissal of Attorney General Melara, saying that the individual is an effective partner of the United States in fighting crime and corruption in the country.

Meanwhile, organizations and human rights groups have also retaliated over the decision of El Salvador's Congress on Saturday. The Organization of American States (OAS) issued a press release emphasizing that "respect for the democratic rule of law" is important.

"It [General Secretariat of the OAS] rejects the dismissal of the magistrates of the Constitutional Chamber of the Supreme Court of Justice," said the OAS' press release. The release furthered that it also rejects the actions from the Executive Branch that steered the decisions.

#ElSalvador: Condeno los pasos que viene dando el poder politico para desmantelar y debilitar la independencia judicial de los magistrados destituyendo a integrantes de la Sala Constitucional.  Diego Garcia-Sayan (@UNIndepJudges) May 2, 2021

Diego Garcia-Sayan, UN's special rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers also expressed his sympathy against the issue in a tweet in Spanish saying that he "condemns the step that the political power has been taking to dismantle and weaken the judicial independence.

A nuestros amigos de la Comunidad Internacional:



Queremos trabajar con ustedes, comerciar, viajar, conocernos y ayudar en lo que podamos.



Nuestras puertas estan mas abiertas que nunca.



Pero con todo respeto:



Estamos limpiando nuestra casa.



...y eso no es de su incumbencia.  Nayib Bukele  (@nayibbukele) May 2, 2021

Meanwhile, El Salvador's president, Nayib Bukele hits back on the comments from the international community regarding their Congress' decision in ousting the top Judges. Bukele said that they want to work with the international community. "But with all due respect: We are cleaning our house... and that's none of your business," said Bukele in his tweet.

READ MORE: U.S. Pledges Additional $310 Million Aid to Central America to Address Migration Issues

WATCH: El Salvadors Assembly y votes to oust high chamber judges - from TeleSUR English
A Florida man has died in prison while serving a life sentence for the deadly stabbing of his middle school classmate in 2004.

Michael Hernandez, now 31, was seen on surveillance video collapsing to the floor. Reports said an autopsy would be conducted to determine the cause of death, according to Crime Online.

Hernandez was formally declared dead at a hospital in Lake City near the prison. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) will investigate the incident. There were no signs that he had been attacked.

The Miami-Dade State Attorney's Office has released a statement with regards to Michael Hernandez's death.

"Upon his conviction, Michael Hernandez' family was also scarred by Michael's actions. My sympathies to both families," the office said.

Jaime Gough's parents commented on the death of the Florida man. Maria Gough, the victim's mother, said she does not "feel joy" over Hernandez's death, just sad, CBS Local Miami News reported.

READ NEXT: 9-Year-Old Girl Held Captive, Beaten and Molested by Indiana Man

The Murder in 2004

Michael Hernandez was 14 years old at the time of the crime. He stabbed his middle school classmate Jaime Gough more than 40 times in a bathroom stall at Southwood Middle School in Palmetto Bay before hiding his knife in his backpack and attending a class, NBC Miami reported.

Police were called when people noticed blood on the suspect. Investigators later learned that the Florida man was obsessed with serial killers and had made a list of people he wanted to kill, including then 14-year-old victim, Gough.

Michael Hernandez had planned to kill two classmates in the bathroom the day before, but one refused to go with him to the restroom.

The Florida man reportedly felt he was on a mission to "cleanse the planet" by killing. Hernandez also likes to listen to violent "death metal" music and fascinated with genocidal historical figures such as Adolf Hitler.

Gough's parents earlier said in a letter to a Miami-Dade Circuit Judge that Hernandez is a threat to the community and people would "be living in fear" if he would be released. During the 2008 trial, jurors rejected Hernandez's plea to insanity and convicted him of first-degree murder.

The trial testimony also showed that the Florida man wanted to kill his own sister. He was particularly fascinated by serial killers such as Ted Bundy and Jeffrey Dahmer.

The suspect's father, Jesus Hernandez, said at the time that the family hoped to get his son better psychiatric help and a sentence that at least allows him for a future chance at parole.

"I think he needs help but prison is not the right place," Jesus Hernandez noted.

But Hernandez's father admitted that his son even asked him to look up information about serial killers in telephone calls from jail. This was revealed during the questioning by Assistant State Attorney Gail Levine.

Jesus Hernandez also said that he played music clips over the phone for his son from "death metal" bands with lyrics filled with violent, bloody imagery.

The suspect's father said that for him, they were just songs when Levine asked him if it does not worry him that his son is still fascinated by serial killers.

Footage showed that Michael Hernandez appeared to have died in his jail cell on Thursday.

READ MORE: Texas Teacher Sexually Abused Her Former Student for Years: Police

WATCH: Man Convicted for Killing Middle School Classmate Dies Behind Bars - From WPLG Local 10
Only days in its reopening, Disneyland already faced backlash due to the theme park's update to Snow White attraction.

The Enchanted Wish of Snow white takes Disneyland guests aboard a wooden minecart while accompanying the princess in escaping the clutches of the Evil Queen.

As Disneyland describes, in Snow White Ride, guests will start their fairytale journey in the cottage of the Seven Dwarfs. They will visit next the dazzling mines filled with glowing gems, NBC Los Angeles reported.

After that, guests will continue their ride into the sorcery chamber of the Evil Queen, wherein they will discover and witness a scene in a magic mirror while Snow White bit a poisoned apple. The website also teased readers if Snow White could find her own happily ever after.

The updated Snow White attraction features a piece of enhanced new music, backed by LED lights, laser projections, an animation system, and new scenes, which includes Snow White dancing and the collection of spell books and bubbling potions by the Evil Queen.

Fox Business quotes the creative executive for Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney Imagineering, Kim Irvine, saying the Snow White attraction has a rich history. Irvine also shared that they wanted to "take into account the beautiful scenic work that has always existed and retell the story in a special way." The creative executive, along with his Disneyland colleagues, believes that guests will definitely enjoy the sweet storyline of the character in a stunning experience.

Questionable Ending

However, the San Francisco Gate questioned the 'true love's kiss' grand finale between Snow White and her prince.

The news outlet stated in their article that the new grand finale of the Enchanted Wish of Snow White is the moment when the Prince finds her asleep under the Evil Queen's spell, then gives her "true love's kiss" to release her from the enchantment. The San Francisco Gate article then mentioned that the kiss gave by the Prince to Snow White while she was asleep cannot possibly be true love because only one person knows that it's happening.

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Moreover, the San Francisco Gate added that consent in early Disney movies is a major issue. The outlet also cited there is a need to teach kids that kissing is not okay once both parties did not show a willingness to engage.

Meanwhile, the Snow White Attraction is the latest Disney theme park attraction to stir controversy. Previously, there is also a backlash for negative depictions of indigenous people in scenes on the Jungle Cruise attraction. The same thing happened in the Splash Mountain attraction, tied to the 1946 film 'Song of the South.'

Earlier this year, the company announced that they will redesign The Jungle Cruise to replace the scenes in question. The company was praised for its decision to re-establish Splash Mountain after the 2009 animated film 'The Princess and the Frog' that featured a Black Female lead.

On the other hand, when Fox Business requested the spokesperson for Disneyland for a comment on the San Francisco Gate report, the spokesperson did not immediately reply.

RELATED ARTICLE: Disney and ABC Chief Reveals Passing on Scripts Not Meeting Diversity Standards

WATCH: NEW! Updated Snow White Dark Ride | Disneyland 2021 | Enchanted Wish FROM-

SoCal Attractions 360


SECESSIONIST political party Mthwakazi Liberation Front (MLF) has dissolved its leadership and appointed a taskforce to oversee its elective congress.

MLF is known for burning the Zimbabwe flag in South Africa in 2011 and for demanding that Matabeleland region should be an independent State.

Party spokesperson Ndabezinhle Fuyane at the weekend said its leader, Fidelis Ncube, who is based in Botswana, stepped down in March after authorities in the neighbouring country barred him from holding a political position in another country while he was a Batswana citizen.

Churchill Guduza took over the leadership, but the teams term in office had expired.

The 2013 structure had outlived its mandate which according to the MLF constitution is a four-year term that is voluntarily renewable through a democratic electoral process according to articles 13.1.1 and 14.1.1 of the constitution, Fuyane wrote in a communique to party members.

In pursuit of constitutionalism, the majority of the 2013 executive, and as mandated by MLF constitution articles 13.1.4, 14.7.2 and the whole of article 14, deemed it necessary to dissolve the running executive as it diverted the agenda from the founding principles of the MLF constitution and failed to implement programmes set while it morphed into a self-serving enterprise, thereby alienating members and supporters alike.

Fuyane said the dissolution of the executive was effective from March 2021 and, therefore, there was need to prepare for an elective congress.

He said a taskforce to be chaired by Bonhomie Ndlovu and deputised by David Mpofu would lead the MLF, while its secretary would be Nicholas Mathobela, who would be deputised by Desire Dube.

Sibongumusa Mlilo was named treasurer of the taskforce, while he (Fuyane) will act as information secretary.

Other members of the taskforce are Andrea Sibanda and Titus Nxumalo, while Makhiwa Ndebele will head the security affairs department.

We wish all to understand that the task team is not the MLF executive, but an organ or body that seeks to close the vacuum created as MLF is being recalibrated. The task team shall be dissolved soon after the elective congress as it would have fulfilled its specific purpose, Fuyane said.

He said its modus operandi would be to re-group alienated MLF members, recruit and reorient new members, rebuild MLF structures and assert the electability and eligibility of MLF.

In view of the foregoing, it is absurd for anyone to claim to be president of this organisation. MLF shall be up and running to execute its mandate soon after re-adopting constitutionalism as its cornerstone and bedrock in order to avert disastrous management prevalent in Zimbabwe whereby there is a life president who subverts the will of citizens with impunity just to stay at the helm oblivious of the deplorable mess they do, Fuyane said.

He said the taskforce would soon announce the dates of the congress. Newsday
A Florida elementary school principal has been captured on video spanking a six-year-old girl with a paddle.

Melissa Carter, head of Central Elementary School in Clewiston, was recorded bending the student over and hitting her with the wooden paddle several times. The student's mom managed to film the incident.

"The hatred with which she hit my daughter, I mean it was a hatred that, really I've never hit my daughter as she hit her," said the girl's mom as reported by New York Post.

READ NEXT: Florida Schools See 'Disturbing' Decline in Enrollment, Teachers Seek Help

The Incident in Florida School

The child's mother does not speak English. She said that the school called her on Apr. 13 because her daughter damaged a school computer with a repair cost of about $50.

She then went to school to pay the fee, but she was taken to the principal's office, where her daughter, Carter, and a school clerk were waiting.

Carter then brought a wooden paddle and smacked the girl on the behind. The girl's mom then said that the principal started to scream. She then looked around and got nervous after seeing that the area lacks surveillance cameras.

She said that was when she figured out that the only thing she could do was film it to expose the abuse. The mother said that she did not know what to do and worried that her immigration status would be questioned if she intervened.

"I sacrificed my daughter, so all parents can realize what's happening in this school," she said as reported by Daily Mail.

She then took her daughter to a doctor and recorded red marks and paddles made by the hitting. The mother said she is now worried about what psychological harm has been caused to her child.

The attorney for the mother, Brett Provinsky, said the State Attorney's Office is currently reviewing the case to see if they could push for criminal charges against Carter and Cecilia Self, the school clerk seen in the video.

Self was designated to translate for the mother. However, the mother said that she had failed to do so.

Provinsky said the incident is aggravated battery since they use a weapon that can cause severe physical harm. Neither Carter nor the school has yet to make any comments.

Posted on its website, the school district said the superintendent shall impose sanctions for the infractions of rules, excluding corporal punishment.

U.S. Schools Corporal Punishments

Florida is one of the states implementing corporal punishments in schools. However, the practice is not allowed in the Hendry County School district, where the incident occurred.

In North Carolina, the last remaining school to impose corporal punishment voted to ban the practice in October 2018.

A study published in the journal Social Policy Report revealed that in Mississippi and Alabama, Black children in several school districts were more than five times as likely to be punished than white children, The New York Times reported.

Tennessee and Louisiana have also passed a measure banning corporal punishment among students with disabilities.

Officials in Tennessee discovered that children with disabilities were being punished at a higher rate than other children in about 80 percent of the state's public schools doing the same practice.

READ MORE: Florida Teachers Sue State Over School Reopening

WATCH: Florida Principal Caught on Camera Hitting 6-Year-Old Girl With Paddle - From YouTube News
The high-profile-20-year-old conviction of Scott Peterson now has a new development after his sister-in-law claims that she has discovered evidence that will exonerate Peterson for the slaying of his pregnant wife.

The then 27-year-old Peterson already had his death sentence overturned by the highest court of California last summer after allegations of irregularities in the jury selection. Prosecutors are currently trying to get the penalty reinstated as they pushed for a new trial, but the uncovered evidence might change the outcome.

According to New York Post, the sister-in-law of Peterson, Janey Peterson, stated that she believes that authorities who handled the case disregarded leads in the murder of the wife of Peterson, Laci. She mentioned that during the incident, there is a burglary across the street from the home of the couple in Modesto, California.

Moreover, Janey shared to CBS13 that there is no sufficient evidence and series of circumstances that fit the possibility of Scott murdering his wife, Laci. Janey also added that over the years, she created what she considers a 'war room' of evidence to prove the innocence of her brother-in-law.

ALSO READ: California Prosecutors to Seek Death Penalty Again for Scott Peterson

In addition, Scott's sister-in-law, Janey, emphasized that the justice system has failed in the case. She also mentioned that it is a result of a lot of failed aspects in the case. Janey stated that that the failure started with the Modesto Police Department. She pointed out that the local police did not follow up on the evidence that showed Laci, the victim, was alive on the morning of December 24.

Also, Janey said that the officers handling the case did not look into the possibility that the killing was linked to a burglary that happened just across the victim's home. Scott's sister-in-law mentioned that it is possible that Laci witnessed the said break-in, approached the suspects, and was kidnapped by them.

Furthermore, Janey said that there was an anonymous tip that came to the authorities. The tip included the names of five individuals being involved in the burglary. However, only two of those individuals were arrested and questioned during the investigation.

Janey even mentioned that Lt. Aponte, who is working at Norco Prison in the state of California, contacted the Modesto Police in January after one of their inmates was heard discussing information related to the case of Laci. The inmate discussed that the victim had confronted the burglars at the Medina home during the robbery incident, NY Daily News reported.

On the other hand, the Police, however, stated that the break-in happened two days prior to the murder of Laci. Even prosecutors claimed that the timeline presented by Janey does not make sense to them.

Meanwhile, Laci disappeared on 2002 Christmas Eve. She was eight months pregnant with her unborn son, Connor.

Authorities' Response

Prosecutors have previously claimed that her husband, Scott Peterson, murdered his wife and unborn son in their home. After the killing incident, he then dumped the victims from his fishing boat into San Francisco Bay.

But reports claimed that Scott's sister-in-law came as he was about to return to the court this week, still trying to overturn his murder convictions and death sentence.

RELATED ARTICLE: California Supreme Court Overturns Scott Peterson's Death Sentence

WATCH: Scott Peterson's Sister-In-Law Says She Has Evidence That Exonerates Him FROM- CBS Sacramento
An Alaska woman claimed that federal agents raided her home upon looking for House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's lost laptop. The incident happened in a boutique resort in Homer, Alaska, as federal agents track the speaker's laptop that got lost days after the Capitol riot on January 6, 2020, Associated Press reported.

It can be remembered that several Republicans from different committees questioned Pelosi about her responsibility for the security of the Capitol on January 6. A letter addressed to the House speaker asked why the request for the national guard assistance was rejected.

READ NEXT: 4 People Die in Chaotic Capitol Riot, Including a Woman Fatally Shot by Police

Alaskan Residence Searched by Feds

Authorities identified the woman as Marilyn Hueper from Homer, Alaska. Hueper claimed that that the federal agents believed that she and her husband had Pelosi's laptop, New York Post reported. Hueper added that the federal agents also believed that she and her husband were a part of the mob that forcibly made their way in the vicinity of the Capitol.

Because of this, the agents seized Hueper's computer and cellphone. Her husband, Paul's cellphone, was also confiscated but was eventually returned by the agents.

The authorized search was conducted by the FBI and an officer from the Capitol Police, Fox News reported.

Hueper told Fox News that the federal agents broke down the door of their home as they seized the said electronics from them. She also noted that the agents told her that she probably knew why they were in their residence.

The woman said that she had no idea and explained to her that they were in the area for Nancy Pelosi's laptop. Hueper also asked the agents why they did not knock instead. However, the agents responded that they did, but no one answered.

A Case of Mistaken Identity

Federal agents have shown video footage of alleged Hueper inside the building of the Capitol. The suspicion of the agents ended when Hueper pointed out that one of the photos shown to her had detached earlobes while hers are attached. She also claimed that she never owned a black Columbia coat with white lettering on the left shoulder.

The woman shared that they attended the broader rally outside the Capitol on January 6, 2021. However, New York Post pointed out that Hueper denied entering the building of the U.S. Capitol.

The woman's husband posted a photo of his wife on his Instagram account that shows they were present at the Capitol riot. However, the photo showed that they were outside the building of the U.S. Capitol. Associated Press noted that the distance between the building and Hueper is no closer than 91 meters from the building entrance.

In an email to Associated Press, a spokeswoman from FBI Anchorage Office, Chloe Martin, noted that they cannot discuss further details until the issue reached the public realm.

Meanwhile, Nancy Pelosi's deputy chief of staff, Drew Hammill, noted that the laptop that led the feds into the home of the woman from Alaska was only utilized for presentations.

READ MORE: Two Charged on the Death of Capitol Officer Brian Sicknick

WATCH: Mob storm the offices of Speaker Nancy Pelosi & Senator Mitch McConnell - from The Sun
A former restaurant manager in South Carolina has been ruled to pay an enslaved worker more than $500,000 in damages after he forced the intellectually challenged black man to work for more than 100 hours a week unpaid.

Bobby Paul Edwards, 56, is currently serving his 10-year prison sentence after pleading guilty to the forced labor charges in 2019. Back then, he was ordered by the court to pay $273,000 worth of unpaid wages to John Christopher Smith. The amount also included unpaid overtime compensation at the J&J cafeteria.

However, according to The Hill, on April 21, 2012, the Court of Appeals for the 4th Circuit found that the previous amount did not account for the federal labor laws. The court stated that Smith is entitled to double the amount of what he was owned during the time that he was imprisoned in 2009 to 2014, which is about $546,000.

The 43-year-old enslaved worker faced physical violence, intimidation, and threats throughout his period of imprisonment while working in the South Carolina restaurant. He was coerced into working more than 100 hours every week without pay.

Due to the concern about labor laws not being considered, the appellate court sent back the ruling to reassess the award that Smith is supposed to receive to the district court. The payment was calculated based on the time that the payment was delayed.

Meanwhile, the public defender assigned to Edwards did not respond to any requests for comment about the ruling that came out.

Read also: Disneyland Snow White Ride Attracts Backlash, 'Cannot Be Possibly True Love', News Outlet Says

Five Years a Slave

According to Washington Post, court documents stated that smith started working at J&J Cafeteria as a 12-year-old. He worked there since 1990 and loved his job when the business was run by Edwards' relatives.

However, in 2009, Edwards took over the management of the restaurant. This was when Smith became an enslaved worker, and his wages disappeared along with the humane treatment.

Smith was then moved by Edwards to live in an apartment which the attorneys described as "harmful to human health." The place was infested with roaches and was also dubbed as "sub-human" living conditions.

The enslaved worker was then forced to work 100 hour weeks without days off and wages. The court records also stated that Edwards took full advantage of Smith's cognitive disability.

Dubbed as a "reign of terror," Edwards also kept the enslaved worker from his family. He also threatened to have Smith arrested and verbally abused him with racial slurs.

Smith, later on, stated that he was afraid that Edwards would kill him. He also added that he really wanted to escape the place, but he didn't know how without being hurt.

Smith's fellow employees were reluctant to report the abuse they witnessed because they were afraid of Edwards.

In October of 2014, Smith's days as an enslaved worker were put to an end by Geneane Caines, who reported Edwards to the authorities. According to WYFF, Caines was the mother-in-law of one of Smith's fellow workers and feared for Smith's life, prompting her to go to the authorities.

Related article: Scott Peterson's Sister-in-Law To Provide Evidence, Exonerating Him in Possible New Trial

WATCH: Restaurant Manager Kept Black Man As Slave - The Young Turks




Key Takeaways

Introduction- Basic information on Sedition law

History of Sedition Law

Supreme Court agrees to examine the validity of Sedition law given under Section 124A

Conclusion

Introduction

The general meaning of the word 'Sedition' is a conduct or speech by a person in any form which incites others to retaliate or rebel against the authority. In India, Sedition is an offense under Section 124A of the Indian Penal Code, 1860. Under Indian Law, Sedition means, any attempt made by any person in any form to incite retaliation against the government established by law is sedition. The Indian Penal Code talks about sedition under section 124A which states that, Whoever by words, either spoken or written, or by signs, or by visible representation, or otherwise, brings or attempts to bring into hatred or contempt, or excites or attempts to excite disaffection towards, the Government established by law in India, shall be punished with imprisonment for life, to which fine may be added, or with imprisonment which may extend to three years, to which fine may be added, or with fine.

History

Sedition entered the Indian statute books as 'clause 113', when T.B. Macaulay, India's first Law Member, codified the draft Indian Penal Code in 1837. However, it was kept out of the 1860 Act of the Indian Penal Code, but included in 1870, perhaps to counter the Wahhabi insurgency which was spreading across the country. It was not used until 1891, when in the case of Queen-Empress v Jogendra Chandra Bose and Ors, 1891, in India, Judge C.J. Petheram of the Calcutta High Court convicted journalists of the Bangabasi newspaper for sedition, because they did not seem to have the disposition to obey the lawful authority of the government. The scope of the term sedition has continuously expanded over the years and now carrying incorporated words hatred and contempt in it.

Supreme Court agrees to examine the validity of Section 124A of IPC

Sedition law has always been in debate ever since its existence. The Father of our nation-Mahatma Gandhi describes sedition as a prince among the other political sections of the IPC which are designed to suppress the liberty of the citizen. Mr. Nehru also described the law on sedition as obnoxious and highly objectionable and a law that should have no place in any body of laws that we might pass. However, it is quite evident that the Sedition law has paved its way till now though facing controversies.

Since, its existence, the law has remained in controversy including the times before and after the independence. One of the very famous cases concerning sedition law in India is the Kedarnath Singh Case of 1962. In this case of, Kedarnath Singh V. The State of Bihar, AIR 1962 955, the law of sedition given under section 124A of the IPC was questioned on its validity and the Honorable Court upheld the constitutional validity of the said law. However, the validity of the sedition law has always been in question for a long time. Just a few months back in February 2021, the Honorable Court dismissed an appeal filed by the three lawyers on the validity of Sedition law, and after that, now, in April 2021, we have another case questioning the validity and existence of Sedition law in India.

Read more

Case- Kishorechandra Wangkhemcha V. Union of India

On 29th of April 2021, the three-judge bench comprising Justice Indira Banerjee, Justice U.U Lalit, and Justice K.M Joseph in the case of, Kishorechandra Wangkhemcha V. Union of India agreed to examine the validity of sedition law in India.

Background of the Case

This case was filed by two journalists namely, Kishorechandra Wangkhemcha of Manipur and Kanhaiya Lal Shukla from Chhattisgarh who challenged the validity of the Sedition Law provided under Section 124A of the Indian Penal Code, 1860 for violation of Freedom of Speech and Expression. They have filed this case because an FIR was registered against them under Section 124A of the IPC, 1860, for sharing cartoon and comments which were considered to be raising questions against the Central and State governments, on a social media platform known as Facebook.

Arguments presented by the Petitioner

The learned counsel of the petitioner, in this case, gave three main arguments:-

 Firstly it was submitted that in todays time Section 124A is not necessary, the counsel said that in 1962 this provision might have been required to maintain public order and public violence against the government and that is why the Supreme Court upheld it to be valid but today it is no more required.

 Secondly, it was submitted by the learned counsel that there is much alternative legislation present that has been enacted to maintain National Security, Public order, public safety, and therefore taking their existence into consideration, the provision concerning sedition is not required and

 Lastly, three relevant considerations were mentioned as the constitutional inquiry involves the consideration of the prevailing conditions of the time.

i. One of the considerations was that India has obligations under International Law as it has ratified with the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and under Article 19 of the ICCPR Freedom of expression as a right to all individual is provided and Section 124A is in contravention to that.

ii. The second relevant circumstance which was submitted was the frequent misapplication, abuse, and misuse of Section 124A. It was submitted that even people simply exercising their democratic rights are charged under this section.

iii. The third relevant circumstance that was cited and submitted by the petitioner's counsel was that the sedition section has been repealed by many countries today and the example of the United Kingdom, Canada, Ghana, etc, was also given.

Case Status

The three-judge bench considering all this has issued a notice to the central government concerning this plea and agreed to examine the validity of Section 124A of the Indian Penal Code, 1860. The case is pending in the Honorable Supreme Court for further hearing.

Conclusion

This law is not something that can be understood in a day or two. Sedition in itself is very complicated. One of the main questions that is always asked by the people is whether the sedition is against the nation or the government. Any law used wisely with deep enunciation will always be in favor of justice and the citizens. However, it is very much clear that today almost all of the laws which are made to protect the rights of the people are being abused by those very people. Like every other law, Sedition can also be used in both the ways, if used in a correct manner, it is helpful to maintain peace and order however if it is used abusively it infringes the rights of the citizens. Sedition is a topic that has remained in controversy for more than a century and even though it was considered highly objectionable before the independence, it is still present in our legal system and very widely used as well. In the end, sedition is still a debatable law in India and hopefully, its stance will be clear to everyone very soon.
WAR veterans in Karoi have demanded more cash from Finance minister Mthuli Ncube, instead of being given loans for income-generating projects.

The issue arose during a public hearing on the 2021 budget last week by the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Budget and Finance with Hurungwe residents.

Hurungwe district war veteran Ben Chipanda said war veterans were now too old to embark on income-generating projects, adding that they, instead, wanted their stipends to be increased.

War veterans are too old to take on chicken-rearing projects. Personally, as a war veteran, I am not happy over the move to allocate a fund for war veterans. I am speaking on behalf of many war veterans who failed to come here today at the meeting which was also not advertised well on time for planning purposes, he said.

The money allocated for us to venture into chicken rearing is like a joke to us. At our age (the majority of us are above 60 years) we cannot be keeping chickens as an income-generating project. We want cash. We are too old for chicken rearing. We must get cash so that we plan for our families.

Chakari MP Andrew Nkani (Zanu PF), who chaired the meeting, said $37,5 million had been allocated to war veterans so that they could embark on projects to sustain themselves.

Nkani said last year, there was a recommendation for the 2021 budget to consider coming up with a revolving fund for women, youths and war veterans.

Treasury allocated $37,5 million to each sector through recapitalisation of Empower Bank, Zimbabwe Women Finance Bank, POSB, among others, that cater for small and medium businesses. This was also done for war veterans under National Venture Fund. It will empower and capacitate them to participate in the mainstream economy, he said.

But war veterans said the majority of them now lived like vagabonds due to measly stipends they got against the continuously rising cost of living.

During the late former President Robert Mugabes era, war veterans got a $50 000 windfall each in 1997, but the majority of them blew it up as they could not embark on income-generating projects. Newsday
Employees of a vendor paid to conduct COVID-19 contact tracing in Pennsylvania may have compromised the private information of at least 72,000 people, including their exposure status and their sexual orientation, the state Health Department said.

Workers at Atlanta-based Insight Global disregarded security protocols established in the contract and created unauthorized documents outside the states secure data system, Health Department spokesman Barry Ciccocioppo said.

We are extremely dismayed that employees from Insight Global acted in a way that may have compromised this type of information and sincerely apologize to all impacted individuals, Ciccocioppo said. He said state computer systems, including Pennsylvanias contact tracing app, were not implicated.

Insight Global acknowledged it mishandled sensitive data and apologized. The company has been paid about $28.7 million since March 2020, according to the state Treasury Department.

Ciccocioppo said some of the records in question associated names with phone numbers, emails, genders, ages, sexual orientations and COVID-19 diagnoses and exposure status. They did not include financial account information, addresses or Social Security numbers, he said.

The company has been directed to secure the records and has hired third-party specialists to conduct a forensic examination.

The data breach was first reported by WPXI-TV in Pittsburgh, and state lawmakers were briefed on the problem Thursday morning.

House Majority Leader Kerry Benninghoff, R-Centre, called it an incredibly careless and damaging breach of trust.

This latest example of gross mismanagement by the Wolf administration speaks volumes to the dangers of unchecked, unilateral executive authority and why the peoples voice through their elected representatives and senators needs to be heard during challenging times, Benninghoff said.

He said the states agreement with Insight Global was not competitively bid. About 900 Insight Global employees have been involved in contact tracing in the state, according to the Health Department.

In a statement, Insight Global said it became aware on April 21 that employees had set up several unauthorized Google accounts for sharing information, including the names of people who might have been exposed to COVID-19, whether they had any symptoms, how many people lived with them and, in some cases, their email addresses and phone numbers.

The company called it an unauthorized collaboration channel that is not subject to the robust security of its in-house software. Insight Global said it acted to secure the information by April 23.

We deeply regret this happened and are committed to restoring the trust of any residents of Pennsylvania who may have been impacted, the companys statement said. All necessary steps are being taken to secure any personal information, and we intend to learn and grow from this. We remain committed to continue helping slow the spread of COVID-19 in Pennsylvania.

The company also said it was unaware of the misuse of the information involved, but that its third-party security specialists are continuing their work to detect any unauthorized disclosures.

WPXI said former employees of Insight Global told the station they alerted supervisors that information had been improperly secured but no action had been taken.

The Department of Healths emergency contract with Insight Global required the staffing agency to safeguard peoples data and, in the event of any improper disclosure of information, to provide credit monitoring and other remedies. It also required Insight Global to comply with federal health privacy law.

Contract documents said Insight Global recognizes and accepts that the contact tracing workforce will have access to personal health information of contact tracing subjects and must ensure that and all other such information related to the services being provided must be kept confidential and secure.

The Health Department plans to drop Insight Global once its contract expires in three months. The company said it will notify people affected by the data breach and will open a daytime hotline starting Friday afternoon for anyone concerned. That number is 855-535-1787.

Free credit monitoring and identity protection services will be offered.

Insight Global, which started a health care division during the pandemic and bills itself as a leading talent solutions firm, was under pressure to scale up quickly. The company had to hire 250 contact tracers within 35 days, then bring on additional workers every two weeks until the effort was fully staffed.
Over 4 million Pennsylvanians are fully covered against COVID-19 by the available COVID-19 vaccines  almost one-third of all state residents. Another 2.1 million have their first dose of either the Moderna or Pfizer-BioNTech two-dose vaccines while 6.2 million state residents have at least their first shot, just under half the states total population.

(Cant see the map? Click here.)

In all, Pennsylvania has distributed nearly 10 million total vaccine doses, according to data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the City of Philadelphia, which is handling its own vaccine rollout and therefore has its own separate data.

Philadelphia has 524,589 fully vaccinated city residents, according to its website. The rest of Pennsylvania has 3,548,102 individuals fully covered against COVID-19, adding up to 4,072,691 total individuals, just shy of a third of the states population of 12.8 million people.

(Cant see the map? Click here.)

There have been 9,955,764 total doses of the Moderna, Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson vaccines distributed in Pennsylvania so far. And on Monday, the state brought in 708,980 more doses through the federal governments distribution plan. This was the first week since April 12 that Johnson & Johnson was included in the weekly allotment after the state briefly put its distribution on pause.

Pennsylvania is now a few weeks into full vaccine eligibility, but its not as if COVID has fully disappeared. The state saw a significant surge in cases, hospitalizations and then deaths for much of March and April. Though its seemingly slowing down.

There were 1,728 new cases of COVID-19 reported on Monday, plus one more COVID-19-related death. The states totals are now up to 1,158,486 cases of COVID-19 and 26,276 deaths caused by the virus.

(Cant see the map? Click here.)

COVID in Pa.

The 1,728 new cases reported on Monday in Pennsylvania make for the lowest single-day increase since March 22. Granted, Mondays typically have the lowest increase of the week, but each week since April 12 has seen Monday increases trending down.

The states seven-day case average has also continued to drop since hitting a spring peak of 5,006 cases per day two weeks ago. Today, the average sits at 3,204 new cases per day, 29% fewer than the state was averaging two weeks ago.

(Cant see the chart? Click here.)

While deaths usually lag a few weeks behind case increases and decreases, Pennsylvanias death rate is beginning to slow. A couple weekends ago, the state saw the spring surge in cases result in a spike in deaths that reached an average of 46 per day, recorded back on April 24. In the week and change since then, the average dropped as far as 39 on Saturday, sitting Monday at 41 new deaths per day. Since a backlog of reported deaths usually piles up over the weekend, Sundays and Mondays have been doing much of the anchoring of the states death averages  this Mondays reported death increase was one.

(Cant see the chart? Click here.)

COVID in the Lehigh Valley

The Lehigh Valley reported an increase of 79 new cases on Monday, the lowest increase since the region reported the same number of new cases on March 8. Lehigh County reported 45 new cases, while Northampton County reported 34 of its own. The former now has had 38,386 total cases of COVID-19 since March of 2020, while the latter is up to 34,674 total cases since then.

In total, the Lehigh Valley has had 73,060 total cases, topping the 73,000 mark on Monday.

(Cant see the chart? Click here.)

There were no deaths in the region reported on Monday, leaving the Lehigh Valley death toll at 1,531.

Both counties also have more than half of their residents receiving at least one vaccination. Lehigh County has 117,335 fully vaccinated residents and another 71,316 with their first dose. Northampton County has 93,929 fully covered residents and another 67,321 residents partially covered.

Combined, the Lehigh Valley has 211,264 fully vaccinated individuals. With a combined population of 674,603, just under one-third of the region is fully covered against COVID-19.

(Cant see the chart? Click here.)

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Connor Lagore may be reached at clagore@njadvancemedia.com.
Update: This story has been updated with new data provided by the governors office.

As getting a coronavirus vaccine in New Jersey has become much easier, the state is starting to target towns where vaccine compliance is lagging, Gov. Phil Murphy said at his coronavirus briefing Monday.

Murphy spotlighted 16 municipalities with populations of more than 10,000 where fewer than 40% of eligible residents have received an initial dose. Murphy said the state is working with local officials to increase vaccination rates in these and other locations.

New Brunswick has the lowest vaccination level as of late Monday at only 24%, according to the governors office.

New Brunswick is followed by Irvington and Phillipsburg at 29% and Camden, East Orange, Pemberton, Perth Amboy and Trenton at 32%.

New Jersey is making an effort to increase vaccine rates in municipalities where few vaccines have been given out. (Gov. Murphy's office)

Now, to be sure, this is not going to be a competition between towns and communities, or meant to shame any community, but having these numbers out there for everyone to see is important to ensuring that everyone is working and pulling together, Murphy said, adding that the state is moving into overdrive.

The governor said the officials will use several strategies to reach unvaccinated people, which the state has dubbed Operation Jersey Summer.

Like any good campaign, were also putting an army of boots on the ground safely knocking on doors in communities throughout the state, Murphy said. They will work directly in underserved communities, reaching out to residents with information and resources necessary that will help them make the decision to be vaccinated.

Part of the campaign includes mobile vaccination units that have already started to visit underserved and hard-to-reach communities with low vaccine rates, state Health Commissioner Judith Persichilli said.

Murphy said the state is making it easier to get vaccinated, with walk-up hours when people can get their doses at the states six mega-sites, adding that some people may not have gotten their vaccines because they were discouraged by difficulties getting an appointment.

The state will also release hyper-local data to help officials target areas with low compliance.

Murphy said the call center has been proactively reaching out to people who preregistered for vaccinations but who havent yet made an appointment, and the state will continue to work with faith leaders to vaccinate more people.

Free beer will even be dangled to entice people to get a vaccine.

My office and the Department of Health, in partnership with the Brewers Guild of New Jersey, are teaming up to launch our new `Shot and a Beer program to encourage eligible New Jerseyans ages 21 and over to get vaccinated, Murphy said. Any New Jerseyan who gets their first vaccine dose in the month of May and takes their vaccination card to one of the following participating breweries as proof of vaccination will receive a free beer, courtesy of the participating brewery.

As of Monday, more than 3.1 million people have been fully vaccinated in New Jersey  roughly 45% of the states 6.9 million adults. The states goal is to have 70% of the states eligible population  about 4.7 million people  vaccinated by the end of June.

Nearly 4.3 million people  about 62% of adults  have received at least one vaccine dose.

Over the next eight weeks, we are going to be doing everything we can to make sure that every New Jerseyan recognizes that the vaccines in our toolbox are safe and effective. We are going to make sure they know how easy it is to get vaccinated, Murphy said.

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Karin Price Mueller may be reached at KPriceMueller@NJAdvanceMedia.com.
A man and a woman who were wearing waders and fishing Saturday evening in the Delaware River in Williams Township had to be rescued after they got caught up in the swift current, township fire Chief Jeff Murray said Monday.

One found their way to a rocky island while the other held onto a stump in the water that Murray estimated to be about 50 degrees. The entire rescue effort, near Groundhog Lock off Route 611, took an hour or less because there was concern about hypothermia, the fire chief said.

A boat from the Easton Fire Department  one of two Easton boats that were joined by a Pennsylvania Water Rescue craft  scooped up both people and they were taken to an Easton Emergency Squad ambulance to be checked out, Murray said.

Neither was wearing a life jacket, something Murray said is essential for anyone venturing into the river. Waders can fill up with water, he said, and if the river had been deeper at that point, the added weight could have pulled either under.

5/1/2021 2 persons rescued from Delaware River. Department dispatched for a water rescue with Williams Twp Fire Dept.... Posted by Pennsylvania Water Rescue Station 72 on Sunday, May 2, 2021

The pair just got out a bit too far in water that was about two feet deep and once in the current in waders, its hard to get out, Murray said. The river was a bit higher than normal and running fast, he said.

Murray didnt have names or other details about the man and woman.

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Tony Rhodin can be reached at arhodin@lehighvalleylive.com.
A fire Sunday evening damaged a home in the 1700 block of Third Street in Bethlehem Township and displaced six people, according to township volunteer fire company Chief CJ Kuronya.

The blaze was visible from the rear of the home when the first firefighters arrived not long after 6:30 p.m., the company said on Facebook.

It took about 30 minutes to get the fire ender control, Kuronya said.

Four adults and two children were forced from the home and were being helped by the America Red Cross, Kuronya said. One adult was taken to an area hospital for evaluation of injuries, Kuronya said.

The cause of the fire is being investigated by the township fire marshals office, Kuronya said.

A home was damaged the evening of May 1, 2021, in the 1700 block of Third Street in Bethlehem Township.Courtesy of the Bethlehem Township Volunteer Fire Company

Assistant Chief Eric Norder headed the effort at the scene as Bethlehem Township and Nancy Run firefighters arrived along with township EMS personnel, Kuronya said.

Firefighters from Freemansburg, Hanover Township (Northampton County), Upper Nazareth and Hecktown assisted, he said.

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Tony Rhodin can be reached at arhodin@lehighvalleylive.com.
A 35-year-old New York man was arrested Friday morning after police found about 150 pounds of cocaine in the car he was driving on Interstate 78 in Lehigh County, Pennsylvania State Police report in court papers.

Conservatively, Troop M commanding officer Capt. Joseph Sokolofski, who used to head the state police drug interdiction unit, put the street value of a kilo at $30,000, or just above $2 million for all 68 kilos. But this traffic stop in particular, the sale price was $33,000 a kilo, he added, so the total would have been close to $2.5 million.

A state trooper from the Bureau of Criminal Investigation, Drug Law Enforcement Division, was patrolling I-78 about 9:15 a.m. Friday when he noticed a Toyota Sienna with an Illinois plate driving for a mile in the left lane but with no vehicles to pass in the right lane, court papers say. The trooper followed the Toyota, which was going 65 mph in a 55 mph zone, court papers say. The trooper pulled it over in Upper Macungie Township, police said.

The trooper identified the driver as Esteban Latorre-Cacho, of Lockport, New York, and numerous indicators of criminal activity were observed and consent to search the vehicle was granted, court papers say.

A TruNarc device test was made from one kilo and it came back positive for cocaine, police said.

Latorre-Cacho was arraigned before District Judge David M. Howells Jr. on charges of possession with intent to deliver cocaine, possession of cocaine, possession of drug paraphernalia, speeding and another traffic offense, records show. Latorre-Cacho was held in Lehigh County Jail in lieu of $1 million bail pending a preliminary hearing tentatively scheduled 2 p.m. May 14 in District Judge Michael J. Faulkners court.

Court papers did not list an attorney for Latorre-Cacho, who remained jailed on Monday morning.

Thank you for relying on us to provide the journalism you can trust. Please consider supporting lehighvalleylive.com with a subscription.

Tony Rhodin can be reached at arhodin@lehighvalleylive.com.
The gun has been fired on the race to become one of just eight projects in Laois that will get a share of more than 1 million that is potentially available for renewal projects.

In a change to the Town and Village Renewal Scheme, one project in Laois will get 500,000 toward the cost of a large project - more than double what the highest cost project would have got in previous years.

Another new element to the grants will see up to 50,000 allocated to kickstart a project.

The Government says one of the key aims of this year's fund will be tackling dereliction. It says the funding will also be available to turn vacant buildings in town centres into remote working hubs, enterprise spaces, cultural, tourism and community hubs.

Laois Offaly-based Green Party Senator and Minister of State Pippa Hackett has urged people to apply for the Town and Village Renewal Scheme which is worth 15 million nationally.

The scheme announced on bank holiday Monday by Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys, will see fund grants increase in size.

Minister Hackett called on Laois groups to get their applications in.

The 15 million in funding announced today empowers local authorities to carry out projects in their area. They know best what the local communities and the local economy require. The increase in the grant from a maximum of 200,000 to a maximum of 500,000 enables them to be more ambitious.

"I have every confidence in Laois County Council to make applications and Id encourage local groups and organisations to put ideas forward, she said.

The measures that will be supported by the 2021 Town and Village Renewal Scheme include:

Tackling dereliction in town centres

Turning vacant properties into remote working and community spaces

Supporting Local Authorities to run innovative marketing campaigns targeted at attracting remote workers to their county.

Investing in green spaces, parks and recreational amenities

Upgrading and improving shop fronts & streetscapes on Main Streets

Projects that support and enhance the night time economy and add vibrancy to town centres.

The Town and Village Renewal Scheme is administered through the Local Authorities, who are required to work closely with local communities and local businesses to develop and implement proposals.

The previous maximum grant of 200,000.

Minister Humphreys spoke about the key aims of this year's sheme.

The focus of this years scheme is to renovate derelict and vacant buildings in our town centres and give them a new purpose  whether it is for remote working, cultural or community use. I have increased the maximum grant to 500,000 this year so that projects of scale and ambition can be put forward.

I also want to see Local Authorities engaging with local businesses and property owners on our main streets and putting forward collaborative projects to upgrade shop fronts and enhance our streetscapes. Support is also available for murals in our town centres, perhaps dedicated to local cultural or sporting personalities and events. This is all about adding colour and vibrancy to our towns and villages making them more attractive places to live, work in and visit.

Most importantly, I want to seize the momentum around remote working and for that reason, I am supporting Local Authorities to run innovative marketing campaigns highlighting what their area has to offer in terms of remote working facilities as well as cultural and recreational amenities. This is about showcasing our rural towns and villages with the aim of attracting remote workers and the so-called digital nomads to come and live in rural Ireland, she said.

More about the scheme

The Town & Village Renewal Scheme provides funding for projects that make our towns and villages more attractive and sustainable. Since the launch of the Town and Village Renewal Scheme in 2016, almost 93 million has been allocated to more than 1,300 projects across Ireland.

The scheme is administered through the Local Authorities, who are required to work closely with local communities and local businesses to develop and implement proposals that can make a lasting impact in revitalising rural towns and villages across the country. Applications for funding are submitted to the Department of Rural & Community Development through the Local Authorities. The closing date for the submission of applications is 16th July 2021.

Under the 2021 Scheme, grant funding of 90% of the total cost of a project will be provided for any individual project. The remaining 10% match funding must be contributed by the Local Authority and/or the community.

Each Local Authority is invited to submit up to oight applications of varying scale under the 2021 Scheme as follows:

4 applications funding 20,000 to 100,000

2 applications funding 20,000 to 250,000

1 application funding 20,000 to 500,000

1 application funding up to 50,000 ( New Project Development Measure)

The 2021 Scheme will continue to support projects that respond to the new challenges associated with COVID-19 and support the economic and social recovery of our rural towns and villages.

New Project Development Measure:

For the 2021 Scheme a Project Development Measure has been introduced. Under this Measure Local Authorities can apply for grant funding of up to 90% of development costs for one strategic large scale project that may be subsequently progressed with funding from the Town & Village Renewal Scheme e.g. detailed design, preparation for the planning and/or procurement, appropriate assessment etc.

 Funding of up to 50,000 at a 90% rate of aid

 Maximum of one proposal to be submitted by any Local Authority

The priorities of the 2021 Town and Village Renewal Scheme are:

 Projects that bring vacant and derelict buildings and sites back into use as multi-purpose spaces. E.G. Tourism, Cultural or Community Hubs

 Projects that bring vacant properties in Town Centres back into use as Remote Working Hubs. This also includes funding for the repurposing of existing community or publicly owned buildings in town or village centres to facilitate remote working.

 Projects to support the upgrade and enhancement of shopfronts and street facades in towns and villages.

 Projects to develop parks, green spaces and recreational amenities in town centres to make them vibrant hubs for community enjoyment, and to increase footfall for local businesses.

 Marketing campaigns targeted at attracting remote workers and mobile talent to their county/region; and promotion of specific town/villages to attract new customers and/or business investment.

 Projects that support and enhance the night-time economy in line with emerging recommendations from the Night-Time Economy Taskforce.

 Regeneration projects that support active and vibrant town and village centres; these projects should be identified in town and village masterplans (or similar) developed in collaboration with the local community, businesses and the other relevant stakeholders in the town or village.

Full details of the scheme are available on gov.ie
A Laois TD says that importing peat briquettes to Ireland because of the environmental ban on bog cutting here is "standing logic on its head".

Sinn Fein TD Brian Stanley brought one such briquette into the Dail chamber last week, and said it is being sold near a briquette factory facing closure.

"I have in my hand one such product from Germany. It was shipped here from thousands of miles away. This stands logic on its head. I do not see the sense in this. These products are sold within a stone's throw of the briquette factory at Derrinlough in Offaly. Meanwhile, that factory is being scaled down. We accept that commercial peat harvesting will have to end, but that does not make sense if at the same time we are allowing these products to be imported into the locality where briquettes were made, and that facility will close in just under three years' time.

Below: A German peat briquette

Speaking in the Dail on the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development (Amendment) Bill 2021, Dep Stanley says the end of peat harvesting has to happen, but Laois and Offaly families are being hit hardest.

We have to get to grips with the issue of climate change, that is beyond doubt. How we do it is the question. We have to become carbon neutral by 2050 and we have to decarbonise. We accept the cessation of commercial peat harvesting, but this has been a big hit to the economy and jobs in the midlands. There is also a ban on domestic turf cutting.

"For some families and households, jobs have been lost and their domestic fuel is gone, not in ten years, as projected, but in ten months. Some of these householders are former Bord na Mona employees. Earlier, Government speakers referred to the elaborate new high-tech systems for retrofitting houses. While that is where we want to get to and while it is the ideal, those systems are not available this year and households are also being told they cannot engage in small-scale domestic turf cutting. These households have no alternative at this point," he said.

He noted the much higher damage to the atmosphere done by shipping overseas fuel to Ireland.

"Transition from commercial peat harvesting was to take place over a ten-year timeframe. Meanwhile, peat briquettes that are high in carbon are imported from Germany and further afield in eastern Europe. In the manufacture and transport of these products, very high levels of carbon are emitted and thousands of carbon miles are clocked up.

"Last year, I raised the issue of small-scale domestic turf cutting in the Dail. Nothing has been done in the interim to resolve matters. I have argued for a just transition and, during my time as Sinn Fein spokesperson on climate action, I brought forward ambitious policies in that regard. We need to move on this today. The science supports that. Jobs in the midlands are not plentiful. Household income in Laois-Offaly is 15% lower than the State average. Retrofitting has commenced and I welcome that but it needs to be accelerated. There are thousands of homes that require retrofitting, many of them inhabited by low-income families who do not have the money to retrofit.

"In the area of renewable energy, we have a site at Shannonbridge in West Offaly that is in a pivotal position in terms of the national grid. It needs to be a connection point for renewable energy, solar power, wind energy, biomass and biogas.

"The Mount Lucas training facility should be scaled up to a large national training centre that can deliver the apprenticeships that are needed to train people to carry out retrofits and acquire the building skills needed to build the homes that are required to meet the housing shortage.

"Small-scale domestic turf cutting will peter out over a generation or less but, for now, it must be protected. The families concerned have no alternative. I fully support the proposed transition but it must be a just transition for Laois, Offaly and the midlands," Dep Stanley said.
A man stole over 8,500 by tampering with numerous ATMs around Dublin over a three day period, a court has heard.

Elvis Chiriac (35) employed what is called a Transaction Reversal Fraud in order to withdraw the maximum amount of money from an ATM without the machine registering that the cash had been removed.

Chiriac with an address in Bacau, Romania, came forward on signed pleas of guilty to Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for 15 counts of theft at various AIB ATMs and AIB banks at locations in Co Dublin on dates between 8 January, 2020 and 10 January, 2020.

Detective Garda Gareth Lennon told Fiona Crawford BL, prosecuting, that on January 10, last, the gardai received a complaint from an operations manager in AIB outlining that there had been interference with some ATMs between January 6 and January 10.

Det Gda Lennon said that what was occurring is called a Transaction Reversal Fraud, which describes a process in which a person puts a card into the ATM, takes out a small amount of money and then uses a metal or plastic clip in the machine door which stops it from closing.

A certain process is then employed with the end result being the person is able to remove the cash but the ATM registers that the cash as having not been removed.

Det Gda Lennon said AIB could identify the cards used and identified one of them being used in a Centra in Dublin. Gardai used CCTV obtained from this shop to identify Chiriac using the ATM and to identify that he had arrived in a rented GoCar.

Gardai were able to use the GPS installed in the GoCar to trace the journey the accused man made while visiting the various locations in Dublin where he illegally withdrew the money over the three day period. In total 22 attempts were made on ATMs, usually between midnight and 5AM.

The total value of the loss to AIB was 8,520. The court heard there was also some damage done to the ATMs.

Three legitimate cards were used during the illegal transactions, including cards from Macedonia and Abu Dhabi. A third card used was a Revolut card which was registered to Chiriac's niece in London.

Det Gda Lennon agreed with Keith Spencer BL, defending, that the offending requires very remedial items, but also a knowledge of how to use them in order to be carried out. He went on to say that it is not a common offence in this country.

The detective agreed with counsel that his client had 2,000 with him in court as a token of his remorse. Counsel said that if his client was given more time he will gather a further sum and will continue until he has paid the full sum back.

Det Gda Lennon said that none of the stolen funds have been recovered.

Judge Melanie Greally remanded Chiriac on continuing bail and adjourned the matter to June 8, next, when the plea in mitigation will be heard.


A VICTORIA Falls woman from whose house police recovered 481kg of mbanje with a street value of more than $48 million has appeared in court charged with unlawful possession of dagga.

Patricia Ncube (49) of Mkhosana suburb was arrested after police raided the house and recovered 14 x 50kg bags of mbanje which were hidden in the bedroom. There were also twists of mbanje that were found hidden in a container in the same house.

Ncube is suspected to have smuggled the dagga into the country through an undesignated entry point along Zambezi River in the gorges in Chisuma.

The area, especially Gorge Number 23, is notorious for the smuggling of goods including cement, groceries and agricultural inputs between Zambia and Zimbabwe. Ncube was not asked to plead when she appeared before Victoria Falls magistrate Ms Linda Dzvene.

Her lawyer Mr Njabulo Ndlovu indicated that he will apply for bail this week and the magistrate remanded her in custody to May 11.

Prosecuting, Miss Audrey Mukanganya said police raided the house after getting a tip-off that Ncube was in possession of dagga at her house.

On the 28th day of April at around 10AM police detectives received information to the effect that the accused was in possession of dagga at her place of residence. Detectives and canine section officers teamed up and proceeded to the accused persons house, said Miss Mukanganya.

She said the team surrounded the house and the accused came out of the bedroom. Police introduced themselves to her and asked to search the house whereupon they recovered mbanje packed in sacks and plastic bags. Twists of mbanje were also found in the house in a container.

The mbanje weighed 481kg with a street value of $48,1 million. Chronicle
Met Eireann has issued a Status Yellow Wind and Rain Warning for parts of Ireland for Bank Holiday Monday.

The Status Yellow Wind and Rain Warning is for Clare, Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Waterford, Donegal, Galway, Leitrim, Mayo, Sligo, and Wexford.

Met Eireann is warning that it will be unseasonably wet and windy.

Southwesterly winds, veering northerly through Monday will reach mean speeds of 50 to 65 km/h with gusts up to 100 km/h, particularly in coastal areas and on higher ground. Heavy rain in conjunction with the wind will lead to spot flooding with a risk of wave overtopping in coastal areas.

The warning is valid from 3am on Monday morning until 10pm on Monday.

Leinster forecast

Met Eireann says today will get off to a wet and windy start across Leinster, with a band of heavy rain bringing the risk of spot flooding. The rain will break up into showers through the afternoon, heaviest over the northern half of the province, with some sunny spells developing too. Fresh to strong and gusty southerly winds will veer westerly by afternoon, and the winds will continue strong throughout the day, reaching gale force in coastal areas of the southeast. Highs of just 11 or 12 degrees.

TONIGHT

Staying rather windy tonight but many areas will become dry with clear spells. There will be a few scattered showers too. Lowest temperatures of 3 to 5 degrees in fresh northwesterly winds, remaining strong on coasts.
A case of alleged drug driving was dismissed after the judge said he had a doubt that the arresting garda had made a statutory requirement for the defendant to remain at the scene until a roadside testing apparatus arrived.

Appearing before Carrick-on-Shannon District Court last week was Leigh Langan McManus, 6 Rockingham, Carrick-on-Shannon, Co Leitrim charged with the alleged offence at Doon, Boyle, Co Roscommon on at 7.50pm on April 20, 2019.

Mr McManus was stopped by Garda Aisling OBrien travelling at 85 in a 50kph zone. He told the garda he was travelling back to work in Carrick-on-Shannon and was late.



Garda OBrien said she got a smell of cannabis from Mr McManus and he told her it was his friends and not him.

Garda OBrien said she did not have a roadside test apparatus with her and she radioed another patrol car to bring it to her. She said she told Mr McManus to wait at the roadside for the apparatus to arrive.

The oral fluid test carried out showed positive for cocaine and negative for cannabis.

He was arrested and taken to Carrick-on-Shannon Garda Station where he gave a blood sample. This sample returned a negative for cocaine and a positive for cannabis.

In his evidence, Mr McManus said he was asked to go to the far side of the road and wait for the testing kit to come. He said he waited five or ten minutes.

He said Garda OBrien just asked him to wait for the test to come.



In response to Judge Kilrane, Garda OBrien said she spoke to Mr McManus and got a strong smell of cannabis from him. She said the roadside test proved positive for cocaine.

Judge Kilrane asked her if Mr McManus commented about that. Garda OBrien said he was completely and utterly shocked by it and his face dropped. The blood sample showed positive for cannabis.

Judge Kilrane asked how then did the reading for cocaine come up. Garda OBrien said she didnt receive a certificate back from the Bureau in relation to cocaine, just that he was over the limit for cannabis.

Judge Kilrane said cannabis was the dominant drug in his system and questioned why that would not show up in the roadside test. Garda OBrien said the roadside test is for guidance and the blood test is more specific.



Judge Kilrane said the roadside test does capture cannabis. Garda OBrien agreed and said she didnt know why this particular one didnt.

Judge Kilrane said there were two matters that troubled him in this case. He commented that we cannot just bow down before the god of science in relation to these things.

He referenced a legal article from the USA about presumptive testing which was found to be highly unreliable. He gave an example of a woman who pleaded guilty under advice to drugs in her system and was jailed for 21 days, when in fact it was later found she had no such drug in her system at all.

He said this showed the importance of challenging the entire testing system.

We cannot have mysteries around situations where we just have to accept it, we cannot go down that road, Judge Kilrane stated.



He said that in this case the test at the roadside indicated cocaine and the defendant was completely shocked by it. He said, ultimately, the test carried out in the Garda Station came back zero for cocaine, and recorded cannabis only.

He said there was no explanation for that. We should know the explanation for that, he said.

Judge Kilrane also noted another case where a roadside test indicated the presence of a drug and the blood test ultimately showed it was alcohol in the persons system and not illegal drugs.

The second point he found troubling was the question of whether the garda required the defendant to remain at the scene until the apparatus arrived.

Judge Kilrane said he found the defendant impressive; he was extremely cooperative at the scene, apologised for speeding, gave an explanation why, and complied with requirements of the test.

He was entirely compliant right through. He has not denied anything, I find him quite a credible witness, he said.

Judge Kilrane said the requirement for a driver to remain at the scene is a statutory requirement and remarked that while they were not under arrest, it was a serious infringement on their liberty.

He said the garda said she invoked that power, the defendant said she didnt.



The defendant comes across as an honest individual and I have a doubt about it. I find the totality of the matter a little unsatisfactory, he said.

Judge Kilrane said his doubt was on the latter point that he was required to remain at the scene and he dismissed the prosecution.

John McNulty, solicitor, appeared.
Sinn Fein MEP, Chris MacManus, has raised concerns about how technological change could make starting an agricultural enterprise too costly for the majority of small and younger farmers in Ireland. MacManus, speaking during a debate in the European Parliament on the future of farming, commented:



Farming will radically change in the coming years with advanced technology becoming commonplace.



I would be concerned this will lead to a two-speed transition. Those who can afford the technology with the expertise to operate it and those that dont, thus creating an ever-widening gap between those competing to produce the majority of our food.



Speaking after the event MacManus elaborated on the issue: During the Committee meeting we were presented with a report from the European Commission on the future of agriculture. The report clarified how advanced technologies will be used more and more in every aspect of agriculture.



The question must therefore be asked, who is going to pay for this? In every CAP transition, the budget shrinks, which means the likelihood of substantial grants to help farmers access these technologies is only getting smaller.



This means young farmers are going to be forced into drawing down loans to the tune of tens if not hundreds of thousands of euro. A lack of access to credit for such technology will likely rival, if not overtake, access to land as the biggest barrier to entering the agri sector. The simple reason for this, is that banks are much more willing to loan money for land purchase, as opposed to purchase of technology, which only depreciates in value as time goes on.



The Midlands Northwest MEP highlighted concerns of a growing corporate farming model. I fear the food production industry will become only open to cash rich multinationals. We have seen how Amazon created supermarkets employing almost zero workers, replaced by sensors and machines. 



I believe in a sustainable future for Irish farmers, striking the balance between quality food production and the restoration of biodiversity. The only way to pursue this is by rejecting the notion that high yields or export numbers are the only important measure of a valuable sector.



MacManus concluded, I prefer to measure our success in terms of do we have fair farming incomes, a secured future for young farmers, thriving rural communities and rich and restored landscapes. If technology can play a part in achieving these objectives then I am fully on board but this is not what we have been hearing in our discussions. As an MEP who endeavours to speak on the behalf of rural Ireland, I want to use my role on the Agricultural Committee to place these priorities firmly back on the agenda.
A STATUE of a Limerick-born slave owner has been taken down in the city of Baltimore, Maryland.

John ODonnell was born in Limerick in 1749 and emigrated to the United States in later years. ODonnells family are thought to be from Truagh Castle in Ardnacrusha. However, Johns father was heavily involved in Limerick and specifically the Thomond Bridge area, where John is believed to have been born.

John ODonnell eventually settled in Baltimore in 1785 where he began trading with merchants from the Chinese port of Guangzhou, which was called Canton by English speakers.

In 1786, ODonnell bought 2,000 acres of land in Baltimore which he named Canton after the port. ODonnell owned 36 slaves on this plantation. Currently, this land is now called Canton square and is where the statue was situated.

The Canton Anti-Racism Alliance, with support from the Canton Community Association, started the campaign to take down the statue back in November 2020. They wrote a letter to then-Mayor Bernard C. "Jack" Young, which asked him to remove the statue immediately.

An online petition was also started in October 2020 asking for support to take the statue down and it garnered over 800 signatures since its creation.

On April 5, the statue was finally taken down with complete endorsement from the new Mayor of Baltimore, Brandon Scott. He said about the removal: Tonight, the hostile vestige to the notorious enslaver Captain John ODonnell no longer stands in Canton square.

He continued, I am committed to dismantling structural oppression in Baltimore.

The statue of John ODonnell had only been erected 41 years ago, in 1980. A plaque under the statue read, a man of great vision and accomplishment."
A LIMERICK audio festival opens its online doors for audiences during the second week of May.

The HearSay International Audio Arts Festival is a Kilfinane-based event that usually invites talented audio makers from around the world to its doorstep.

However, due to Covid-19, this festival has to be hosted online. Therefore, the festival organisers have decided to name it HearSay: HomeFires as it wont be like the normal festival.

The aim of this now online festival is to connect, to drop in, to rebuild a sense of place, to renew a belief in life's possibilities, said one spokesperson for the event. The event is completely free to attend for everyone who registers.

The festival will have something for everyone in the family over its one-week run from May 7 to May 14.

Theres dance, podcasts, quizzes, baking and much more taking place over the course of several days.

They are hosting their awards ceremony on May 14 for the creators that are shortlisted. Theres an emphasis on the village of Kilfinane this year with every shortlisted entry having a connection to the lovely town.

There will be live-streamed presentations of pieces created over the last 25 years by visiting artists, in collaborations with Kilfinane people, created by artists from the surrounding areas, or made in Kilfinane for broadcast elsewhere, explained a spokesperson for the festival.

You can register for the event here.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison has defended banning Australian citizens from returning from India, amid criticism by human rights groups that the governments threat to punish breaches with fines of roughly $50,000 and five years imprisonment is heavy-handed.

Were all just working to do whats right for the health interests of Australians," Morrison said in a radio interview on Monday, adding that he implemented the ban on the basis of advice from his health officials. Were deeply, deeply concerned about the humanitarian crisis in India."

As infections surge in countries such as India, where daily cases topped 400,000 for the first time on Saturday, there are fears Australias quarantine system will buckle with more returning travelers testing positive. While the nation has come close to eliminating local transmission of the virus by closing its international border to non-residents -- other than a new travel bubble with New Zealand -- occasional cases leak into the community from quarantine hotels, triggering localized lockdowns.

While Australia on Tuesday joined nations including the U.S., U.K., France and Canada in blocking flights from India, on Saturday it went further. Amid reports people in India were using flights from other countries to enter Australia, Morrisons government banned citizens currently in India from entering.

The block, to last until at least May 15, still allowed people to fly in through a third country until Saturday, when the new measure announcing a full ban closed that loophole.

As of late March, there were 36,000 Australian citizens stranded overseas and seeking to come home. Australias Indian diaspora is one of its most rapidly growing ethnic groups. The 1996 Census reported 77,551 India-born people in the country -- by the latest survey in 2016, that had grown to 455,385 people.

No Racism

According to the Australian Human Rights Commission, the extraordinary" ban and threat of criminal sanctions raises serious concerns.

The need for such restrictions must be publicly justified," it said in a statement on Saturday. The government must show that these measures are not discriminatory and the only suitable way of dealing with the threat to public health."

Foreign Affairs Minister Marise Payne on Sunday denied the decision was motivated by racism.

The decision which has been made under the Biosecurity Act on the basis of the advice of the chief medical officer is a temporary pause on returns," Payne said, according to the Guardian. The burden that has placed on the health systems in the states and territories" was significant, she said.

The prime minister on Monday played down the chances of using law to punish returning Australians from India. He pointed to Australias humanitarian aid to its Quad security alliance partner, which includes sending more than 500 ventilators, 1 million surgical masks and other medical equipment to India.

I understand the measures have strong sanctions," he said. I can assure people that they will be used appropriately and responsibly in these circumstances."

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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Indian Ambassador to the United States, Taranjit Singh Sandhu on Friday met with Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla to discuss ways in which the COVID-19 vaccine maker can support healthcare efforts in India.

Taking to Twitter, Sandhu said he discussed with the Pfizer CEO on how the company can also strengthen the pandemic response in India, which is in the grisp of a devastating second wave of COVID-19.

"Important conversation with @AlbertBourla CEO @pfizer today evening. Discussed ways in which Pfizer could support healthcare efforts incl vaccines in India, and strengthen our pandemic response," he tweeted.

Important conversation with @AlbertBourla CEO @pfizer today evening. Discussed ways in which Pfizer could support healthcare efforts incl vaccines in India, and strengthen our pandemic response. pic.twitter.com/HoXjC0vlyi  Taranjit Singh Sandhu (@SandhuTaranjitS) April 29, 2021

Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccines are the first two coronavirus vaccines authorised by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for emergency use and already have been given to millions of Americans.

Bourla had recently said that an oral drug for treating coronavirus could be ready next year, adding the company is working on two antivirals -- an oral and an injectable.

Meanwhile, the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) approved the use of the Russian Sputnik V vaccine against coronavirus in the country on April 12. Now, India has three vaccines Covishield, Covaxin and Sputnik V for its inoculation program against COVID-19.

India started its vaccination drive on January 16 with priority given to all healthcare and frontline workers in the first phase. The second phase started on March 1 where doses were administered to people above the age of 60 and those between 45 and 59 years with specific comorbidities.

The third phase of COVID-19 vaccination drive will start from May 1 wherein all above 18 years of age will be eligible for inoculation.

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DR Sales, the commercial arm of the Danish broadcaster, is set to start handling more children programming, kicking off with the animated series Team Nuggets.

Currently in development, the comedy show was commissioned by DRs streaming platform Ramasjang which targets children aged 4 to 8 years old and ranks as Denmarks leading platform for kids content.

Team Nuggets, comprising 52 episodes running seven minutes each, follows Karla, a curious young chicken who lives in a hen house with her family. The series revolves around everyday life at a small-town Danish school with Karla and her friends, including Ib, a 150-year-old melancholic gnome; Tilde Victoria, who has a television set for a head and communicates via her screen; and Heinz, the ill-tempered tomato kid, who struggles to control his anger.

The series is about relationships and explores the grey areas in the world of young children. Team Nuggets explores recognizable dilemmas for all kids, dealing with emotions, what is right and wrong and how to interact with friends, enemies, parents and not least themselves, stated DR Sales.

The sales banner also said the script of the series has been evaluated by Danish child psychologist Margrethe Brun Hansen to stay true to our target groups own conflicts and experiences.

Team Nuggets is created by Michael Hegner, whose credits include Ninjago and Lego Star Wars and Tor Lubich Fruergaard, whos behind Growing Pains and Zombie Western. The series is produced by Sparre Productions for DR Ramasjang. Frances GODO Films is co-producing. Team Nuggets will be presented at the Animation Production Days in Stuttgart later this month.

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The Changing Face of Europe program, which is presented by European Film Promotion (EFP) in collaboration with the Hot Docs Canadian Intl. Documentary Festival, reflects a continent in flux, as displacement, immigration, cultural shifts, and the coronavirus pandemic have all played separate roles in pushing millions to rethink and reimagine what it means to live in Europe today.

The programs fourth edition, which takes place online from April 29 to May 9, features 10 documentaries, including two world, one international, and four North American premieres. Films were nominated by EFPs 38 member organizations, which include film promotion institutions from across the continent, before the Hot Docs programming team made the final selection. The initiative is supported by the Creative Europe  MEDIA Program of the European Union and the participating member organizations of EFP.

For the audience, and also for distributors, [the program] gives you a great portrait of what is currently happening in Europe, says Sonja Heinen, EFPs managing director. In addition to screenings, The Changing Face of Europe matches directors and producers with key distributors, buyers and festival programmers via virtual one-to-one meetings during Hot Docs. Its really a great place to meet the international documentary industry, Heinen adds.

Few years in recent memory have offered a better snapshot of a Europe in transition, as the coronavirus pandemicwhich rampaged across Northern Italy last winter before sweeping across the continentupended daily life for millions already grappling with the effects of immigration, climate change, Brexit, a rightward shift in national politics, and the transformations wrought by globalization and the digital age.

While countless filmmakers in the past year have labored to capture the strangeness and uncertainty of life during the pandemic, Italian director Andrea Segre was among the first to bring that experience to the screen in Molecules, the pre-opening night film of last years Venice Film Festival.

Segre had arrived in Venice last February to research two separate projects about a city being transformed by mass tourism and climate change, when the pandemic began sweeping across Italy. As the Piazza San Marco emptied of tourists and the waters of the Grand Canal grew still, he realized with my camera that I was filming something incredible, the director tells Variety. I didnt know why I was filming, what I was following[but] I understood I was filming something that I couldnt control.

Amid the stillness and silence of a city under lockdown, Segres mind returned to memories of his father, a quiet and reserved molecular biologist who was raised in Venice. Molecules became a study not only of the relationship between the director and his late father, but of the relation between life and illness, life and death, and human frailty in what he describes as the most fragile town in the world.

The result was transformative for the director. If you enter into this kind of process, into this kind of experience, something uncontrollable happens to you, says Segre. Doors open in directions that you couldnt imagine, that you couldnt control and prevent.

Something no less unexpected occurred when Zdenka, a single woman in Czech Republic, met Tabish, a computer scientist in Pakistan, while playing the online video game FarmVille. Romance blossomed, and their evolving relationshipalong with the countless hurdles it had to overcomebecame the subject of A Marriage, from Czech filmmaker Katerina Hager and Pakistani co-director Asad Faruqi, which has its world premiere at Hot Docs.

When we started making this film in 2017, I could really sense xenophobia and anti-immigration sentiment swelling in the Czech Republic, says Hager. That gave the directors documentary portrait of a single, intimate relationship added urgency. The images presented by mass media of immigrants flooding or invading Europe are often very dehumanizing and the stories and struggles of individual people are lost.

As their online romance bloomed, Zdenka and Tabish arranged to meet and marry in Sri Lanka. But for the five years that followed, the Czech government repeatedly rejected Tabishs visa requestsdecisions that echoed the broader backlash against immigrants across much of Europe in recent years. The couple nevertheless kept their love alive via Skype, persevering with the hope that they would someday be reunited.

In the digital age, we are now more connected than weve ever been and it is reshaping how we exist as a species, says Faruqi. I do believe its unique stories, like that of Zdenka and Tabish, that will reshape the world of our future. The production itself, which took place across three continents, at times in the midst of a global pandemic, was no less a testament to how we live today. In both cases, were the proof that technology today allows us to connect with people on the other side of the world and to build authentic relationships, says Hager.

Interconnectedness is also at the heart of The New Plastic Road, from Greek directing duo Myrto Papadopoulos and Angelos Tsaousis, which traces the transformation spurred by the 2004 reopening of the fabled Silk Road in Central Asia. Shot in the rugged borderlands between China and Tajikistan, the film explores how the remote region has become a crossroads of modern capitalism, globalization, and geopolitics, through the story of a local businessman, Davlat, who banks on a brighter future for his family.

We were looking for international topics [about places] that were somehow facing a change, as we felt that we were facing a change in our country at the time, says Papadopoulos, who conceived of the story with Tsaousis a decade ago, as Greece was grappling with the upheavals caused by the global financial crisis.

This very local story about Davlat is a universal story, says Tsaousis. In the coming years, we will see what happened in Tajikistan, in the Pamir Mountains, will start happening in other places. That change is happening even in Greece, he adds, where the main port is majority owned by Chinas Cosco Shipping. Similar stories are taking place in the rest of the world.

In the case of Welcome to Spain, from Spanish filmmaker Juan Antonio Moreno Amador, stories from around the globe come together in Sevilles last brothel, which the local government has repurposed as a refugee reception center. Amador spent two years getting to know the centers residents as they adapted to their new lives in Spain, struggling with the language and culture barrier while they pursued their dreams of a better life.

We have trouble seeing beyond, seeing humans, their conflicts, their contradictions, their emotions and feelings, that are, after all, universal, Amador tells Variety. While Welcome to Spainas with many of the films selected for The Changing Face of Europeis at times a portrait of culture clashes and differences, the director says it also underscores our common humanity.

Anyone could be a refugee. All of us, in the end, flee from something, we have fears and hope and we want the best for our children, says Amador. We all are the same species, we are just human beings and we can recognize us in the other.

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Lil Wayne paid tribute to DMX during the rappers concert Saturday at Miamis Trillerfest.

A week after the late rappers memorial service and funeral, Lil Wayne reminisced about the first time he met DMX in 2000, when the two embarked on the joint Ruff Ryders/Cash Money Tour.

You see, when I was a younger kid we used to be on tour a lot, like six months out the year, Wayne told the audience (via Revolt). And we used to go on tour with another record label because we used to have so many artists. We didnt have to have no opening acts because we just needed another record label and it was just us and them. So back then, we went on this tour called the Cash Money Ruff Ryders tour. See, being from New Orleans, its so far away from New York and Cali and shit like that we didnt know if it was real when we seen it on TV, the New York guys, the LA people. So when we saw DMX, we all fell in love.

Wayne added, But when I got on tour with him, now you in the hotel lobby, you in the backstage, you run across the nigga and he actually say something to you. And when you see this nigga talk like how he rap and you see this nigga is what he is, and you see this nigga got a zillion dogs with him, then a zillion dogs with him, its impossible not to be obsessed, infatuated, motherfucking impressed, whatever. Ladies and gentlemen, please make some noise for the late great DMX!

Waynes tribute came before he performed Tha Carter V track Uproar, which he dedicated to its producer, Swizz Beatz; Wayne noted how Swizz Beatz, a longtime DMX collaborator who was working with the rapper up until his death, was hit real hard by DMXs death. You can watch the entire Triller Fest show right now on FITE.tv.

DMX died April 9th at White Plains Hospital in White Plains, New York, after being admitted on April 2nd following a heart attack. A month before his death, DMX revealed that Lil Wayne recorded a verse for his upcoming album.
Alaska Gov. Mike Dunleavy taped a message to Alaskans on Nov. 11, 2020, urging them to stay home and take other steps to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus. On Jan. 28, 2021, Dunleavy delivered his third State of the State Address, which was broadcast live from his office in Anchorage due to complications created by the COVID-19 global pandemic. News-Miner Screen Shot
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Syndicado Film Sales has acquired world rights to BLIX, director Greta Stocklassas documentary about former U.N. weapons inspector Hans Blix, which is being pitched during Hot Docs Forum, the Toronto fests co-production and financing event. The Toronto-based sales agent is also boarding the project as executive producers.

BLIX follows the former head of the U.N. Monitoring, Verification and Inspection Commission, who was sent to Iraq in 2003 to determine whether U.S. suspicions that the country was manufacturing weapons of mass destruction were founded. Though the final report found no evidence of an Iraqi weapons program under Saddam Hussein, the U.S. and a coalition of allies nevertheless decided to invade the country.

Now in the final stretch of his life, living in relative obscurity as a Swedish pensioner, Blix questions whether he did enough to prevent a war whose impact is felt to this day.

To me, Hanss story is not only an intriguing behind-the-scenes of one of the most important events in modern history, its the story of the limits of diplomacy, moral dilemmas, and personal responsibility in shaping the world, said Stocklassa, whose previous film, Kiruna  A Brand New World, premiered in competition at Visions du Reel in 2019.

Producer Radovan Sibrt, of Prague-based production house PINK, whose credits include Adina Pintilies Berlin Golden Bear winner Touch Me Not, said, We are thrilled to have an internationally acclaimed sales agent on board. For us, its a step in the right direction.

During Hot Docs Forum, which takes place online May 4-5, Syndicado is looking for U.S. partners to help close the financing gap. The company is also repping the Forum project The Last Nomads, by directors Biljana Tutorov and Petar Glomazic.

BLIX is a project of the highest level of ambition, said Syndicado co-founder Aleksandar Govedarica. A personal and most importantly empathic story that sheds light on one of the defining events of the 21st century.

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Uplifting refugee drama Peace by Chocolate, which marks the last film starring late great Syrian actor and director Hatem Ali, is set to world premiere at the upcoming Tribeca Film Festival.

UTA Independent Film Group will be handling world sales on the English-language pic, which is directed by Canadian first-timer Jonathan Keijser and will bow as part of the fests online Tribeca at Home presentations announced today.

Peace by Chocolate is based on the true story of Tareq Hadhad who fled from war-torn Syria with his family and founded a now booming chocolate business in Canada called Peace by Chocolate.

The protags father is played by Hatem Ali, who passed away prematurely last December at 58. Ali was known across the Arab world as both an actor and the influential director of political TV dramas such as The Long Night, about three dissidents released from a Syrian prison after 20 years of incarceration.

The Hadhad familys chocolate factory in Damascus, Syria, was destroyed by bombing in 2012. They fled to a refugee camp in Lebanon and in 2016 wound up in Antigonish, Nova Scotia, where they started making chocolate again, initially selling it at the farmers market in this tiny rural town before landing a nationwide distribution deal with a grocery store retailer.

Syrian newcomer Ayham Abou Ammar plays Tareq, who is is torn between following his dream to become a doctor and preserving his familys chocolate legacy, according to promotional materials.

Syrian stars Yara Sabri (Samarqand) and Najlaa Al Khamri also star in Peace by Chocolate, as well as Canadian veterans Mark Camacho (Trickster); Arthur Holden (Arthur); Kathryn Kirkpatrick (Sacred Lies) and Alika Autran (Altered Carbon).

Peace By Chocolate is produced by Martin Paul-Hus, Catherine Leger, and Kathy Wolf via director Jonathan Keijsers Los Angeles-based Magnetic North Pictures. The executive producer on the pic is Chadi Dali.

The Tribeca Film Festival will run June 9-20 as an in-person event also comprising an online component.

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When "60 Minutes" correspondent Bill Whitaker got a call from his agent asking whether he would be interested in filling in as a guest host on "Jeopardy!" this spring, he was surprised but intrigued. He's a huge fan of the show - he and his wife watch it every night if he gets home in time - so he barely gave it a second thought before he said, "Sure, I think that might be fun."

At the time, Whitaker didn't realize how much attention would be laser-focused on one of the highest-profile job openings in Hollywood. Beloved "Jeopardy!" host Alex Trebek died in November after 36 years at the helm of the game show, and once fans had mourned his passing, the Internet turned to the pressing question: Who was going to replace the legendary host?

"I have been really blown away by the coverage this all gets. I truly did think, silly me, that I was going to be a 'Jeopardy!' guest host and carry on with my life as usual," Whitaker said, laughing. "But these hosts: They're gossiped about, they're tweeted about, they're in People magazine, the Hollywood Reporter. I'm going, 'Oh my God, I had no idea that this was going to be this wild and crazy.'"

Whitaker, whose two-week slate of episodes starts tonight, is the seventh host in the hot seat, following Ken Jennings, Mike Richards, Katie Couric, Mehmet Oz, Aaron Rodgers and Anderson Cooper. (His appearance will surely please the probable large crossover of "60 Minutes" and "Jeopardy!" fans.) The experience was a whirlwind, Whitaker said. While he has been on TV for decades as an award-winning journalist - he joined CBS News in 1984 and was named a "60 Minutes" correspondent in 2014 - he quickly learned that hosting a TV game show had a learning curve.

"I work in television news, which is a totally different animal. I'm used to talking to one camera," he said. "Here, you had, I think, four cameras - one swoops in from the side, you talk to that one at the end of one commercial, and then swoops to another one you have to talk to after a commercial, and then the contestants are over on the other side. The thing that I was most surprised about was just how fast-paced it is."

Whitaker got a taste of the intense "Jeopardy!" protocols on the first night at his Los Angeles hotel. His first day on the set was a rehearsal, in which staffers stood in for contestants and ran through a game from a previous episode. But a staffer still showed up to hand-deliver the next day's script that contained the clues and answers - and even though it was from a game that already aired, Whitaker was given strict instructions to never let it leave his sight, a sign of how seriously the show takes security.

He got only one day to rehearse ("I probably could have used two," he admitted) on the Monday he arrived. He practiced how to say each clue, became familiar with the camera angles, got to know the producers, and learned the "Jeopardy!" lingo: Contestants give "responses," not answers, and hosts say a response is "incorrect" instead of wrong. He marveled at how quickly the producers helped him feel like part of the "Jeopardy!" family. "I know it sounds hokey but it's true," he insisted. On Tuesday and Wednesday, he taped five games each.

The moment he walked onto the famous set was jarring Whitaker said, especially as an avid viewer. "A couple of times I had to pinch myself to say, 'Oh my gosh! Look where I am. This is crazy,'" he said. "It looks just like it looks on television. You're not watching on the box, you're actually there. The big screen and the questions and the podiums with the guests and the directors and the producers and the whole thing. It is quite surreal."

The two days flew by, and the nerves soon melted away as Whitaker had a blast. He enjoyed chatting with the contestants during the interviews and the end of episodes, and he developed a new appreciation for hosts who ad-lib and make jokes while balancing the rapid speed of the show. Hosts wear an earpiece during the taping, and Whitaker frequently heard, "Pick up the pace, keep it going!" Eventually, he got the hang of the rhythm.

"It becomes easier, show by show," he said. "Around show seven, I was like, 'I think I've got this!' I was feeling a little bit more comfortable. Then you've got show eight, nine, 10 and you're out."

And yes, Whitaker has watched all the other guests hosts but politely declined to name a favorite so far. He said he has been very impressed by them all, and now watches the show with a much different eye since he has gone through it himself. There was zero talk on the set of who might eventually get the permanent hosting gig. "I love my day job, so this was just a change of pace," he said.

While Whitaker was there, he also kept thinking about Trebek and how amazing it was that the veteran host made the challenging job look so easy.

"He was always kind and personable and he seemed to be brilliant himself. He made the contestants feel welcome and appreciated," he said. "There's so many things to think about, so many moving parts. To be able to do that and make the contestants all feel as though his focus is on them, that's remarkable."

Whitaker has a memory of when he lived in Los Angeles years ago, and he and his wife were at the Hollywood Bowl on a beautiful summer evening. Suddenly, they saw Trebek walking up the stairs, and there was a noticeable rumble as the other patrons noticed. A few people started clapping, and by the time Trebek got to his seat, there was a full-on standing ovation.

"He had that kind of impact, made that kind of an impression on people. Everybody liked Alex Trebek," Whitaker said. "So it was intimidating and wonderful to be tapped to stand on the same stage where he ruled for so long."
The awaited education relief funds were partially released for school districts across Texas on Wednesday prompting district leaders to start creating a comprehensive spending plan for the funds, which are expected to be allocated into school budgets for the next three years.

According to Flor Ayala and Laida Benavides, the LISD and UISD business and finance assistant superintendents, respectively, districts were tasked by the Texas Education Agency to create a comprehensive plan prior to applying to receive the two-thirds amount of their proposed allocation.

UISD is set to receive $85,025,088 of the total $127,537,632 and LISD will receive $82,029,094 of its total $123,043,641. The amount is derived from individual districts needs regarding the impact COVID-19 had on student learning as well as the proportionate amount of funds each district received under Title 1. This means that school districts which serve a larger population of students from low-income families receive more money.

The remaining third of the allocation will be kept by the state until after the U.S. Department of Education releases a state application process, the TEA states.

However, to apply to receive the ESSER III grant, LISD and UISD will be required to design a comprehensive plan that will address the impact COVID-19 had on elementary and secondary schools in terms of the learning gaps, Ayala said.

The comprehensive planning process will be done prior to applying to receive the $82 million, as 20% of the funds are mandated to be used on academics including instructional continuity and evidence-based interventions for students.

This could include summer learning programs, after school programs, extended school years or additional responses to student academic, social and emotional needs that have been affected, TEA stated.

Another specific goal that a plan should include is the reopening of schools, Benavides said. With districts planning to return to a traditional setting for the 2021-22 school year, the federal government and TEA are setting a priority of the return of on-campus instruction.

Additionally, school districts can also use the funding to address COVID-19 impacts throughout their infrastructures. According to Benavides, with 20% of the grant focused on learning loss, the additional 80% can be used for facility renovations like improved HVAC systems, new technology upgrades, additional hiring of staff members, staff development and mental and behavioral support to name a few.

Ayala explains that as the funds are expected to be completely used by September 2024, the budget planning needs to allocate the ESSER funds precisely to not be short in 2024.

We see these ESSER funds as a one-time new money because its not coming back, but I think its going to help us a lot, and at the same time as we are spending, we are stimulating our community. We will be creating some jobs as well, Ayala said.

Some plans at LISD that are being discussed are to work with smaller classrooms, which would result in the hiring of more teachers, Ayala said. This led Ayala to highlight the importance of the instructional plans as both LISD and UISDs ESSER funds will need to supplement them. Moving forward, instructional leaders will continue to play a vital role in the students learning process as well as the grant requirements.

With planning slated to start, district leaders will have to come together to set up a plan as the TEA requires districts to post their Safe Return to In-person Instruction and Continuity of Services Plan within 30 days of receiving the funds. But prior to posting, districts have to make the plan available for public comment and consider comments in the finalization of said plan. The U.S. Department of Education will require the plan to be reviewed every six months.

Districts will also be required to reach out to stakeholders and include them in the comprehensive planning. According to Ayala, planning could begin starting in the summer with the plan details posted online for the community to see and keep up to date with any changes.

According to the TEA, this would also include civil rights organizations, special community and underserved students to properly gauge the needs of those within the realm of each district.

We want to make sure we have meaningful consultation with all stakeholders and give the public an opportunity to provide input in the development of this plan, she said. This includes consultations with students, families, school principals, district administrators, teachers, other school leaders and other members of the community, including the business community, to ensure that we are going to be covering all areas of needs to provide catch up with all this learning for our students.

The same can be said for UISD, as the plans will also be publicized as they are updated throughout the summer until they are ready to be presented to the TEA. Both districts are discussing public hearings in an effort to invite the public to reach out and give their input or ask questions.

And to mitigate the risk of wasted funds or misuse, Benavides said the TEA will be the oversight agency overlooking that all school districts are complying with the federal rules. With the prospects of future audits and community outreach, school districts are under a microscope to properly utilize all the funds for the benefit of student learning and addressing the COVID impact.

However, all school districts must also prepare to be reviewed by the U.S. Department of Education or other federal agency. In the event of an audit, agencies can request a myriad of information including cash management, costs, payroll, policies, procurement records, personnel records, inventory, etc. This makes it clear that all districts will be scrutinized for each federal dollar spent.

cocampo@lmtonline.com
Even though many events were postponed on Friday because of the inclement weather, several gatherings for the Dia de los Ninos  or Day of the Children  Mexican holiday went on as scheduled.

District VI held a Treat Bag Drive Thru to celebrate the children of the city by distributing 600 gift bags. District VI Councilmember Dr. Marte A. Martinez said the event was needed as the pandemic has also been rough on children being isolated from their friends and others.

This was a rough year for all of us, but especially the children, Martinez said. Its time to celebrate them and for the children to come out and enjoy a little something on this Dia del Nino.

Martinez said all the children in attendance were surprised and thrilled when opening their gift bags.

They didnt know what was happening at first, and then they started to look inside their bags and most of them were excited to be out, Martinez said.

According to City of Laredo Public Information Officer Noraida Negron, the event saw nonstop traffic at North Central Park from its start at 3 p.m. until about 5 p.m. when it ended.

One of the children in attendance said they were extremely grateful.

I was so happy to open the bag and see some nice things as we also went to eat some pizza at Peter Piper after there, and I hope that every child had a good Dia de los Ninos, Barbara Campos, 8, said. I love the fact that people care for us children too.

According to Martinez, Dia de los Ninos is an important holiday that must continue to be celebrated locally as it is part of the culture of the city and celebrates the citys future.

Number one, we are the most authentic Hispanic town in the state of Texas, Martinez said. And number two, its important to remember our children are our future, and when we honor our children, we secure a brighter future for them.

Other Dia de los Ninos celebrations were held throughout the city.

Veterans Memorial Elementary School provided every student from preschool through first grade attending face-to-face classes with a complimentary book as the holiday is also used to emphasize the importance of reading and literacy.

El Dia de los Ninos is celebrated every April, but it is also a year-round commitment to motivating all children and their families to be readers, Veterans Memorial librarian Cristina Antonelli said.

Royal Miss Texas Sweetheart Anaregina Guerra, 10, celebrated the holiday by giving gifts to children throughout the community including stops at Bethany House of Laredo, Reginas Schoolhouse and Headstart. A goodie bag and a toy were provided to each child through funds raised by the Queens Bee Kind project which Guerra founded. She also stopped at Reginas Schoolhouse and at Headstart.

Guerra, a fourth-grade student at Trautmann Elementary School, makes and sells bracelets, T-shirts and tumblers with motivational messages to support the project as she aims to encourage girls to make a difference in their community through kindness and positivity.

jorge.vela@lmtonline.com
For most of the people who ever encountered George P. Kazen, it was likely in a courtroom. He would have been on the bench, in his robes, brilliant, stoic, compassionate and authoritative.

But for the people who knew Kazen personally, he was so much more. He was caring, humble, sweet and witty, a mentor, a father and a friend.

Everyone seems to think hes untouchable, what they see on the bench, said Kazens oldest son, George D. Kazen. He was the warmest, funnest, gentlest person that you could ever meet.

He would come up with one-liners that would floor his friends and loved musicals. Each of his 10 grandchildren just loved him, and he adored them right back, Kazens son said. On April 27, at age 81, he passed away with his four children beside him.

Kazen was born and raised in Laredo, and he graduated from St. Josephs High School as valedictorian at age 15. He received both his bachelors degree and law degree from the University of Texas, spent time as a briefing attorney for the Texas Supreme Court and for three years served as an Air Force captain and judge advocate.

He led a private practice in Laredo from 1965 to 1979 until he was nominated by President Jimmy Carter to be a U.S. district court judge for the Southern District of Texas. From 1996 to 2003, Kazen served as chief judge for the Southern District of Texas, and in 2003 he was appointed to the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court. He retired in March 2018 having served just short of 40 years on the bench.

Fellow Laredo U.S. District Judge Marina Garcia Marmolejo said working with Kazen was like having access to a legal encyclopedia, but with all the experience and knowledge that he brought with him. He also went out of his way to make people feel they had their day in court, Marmolejo said; they didnt walk away feeling that the law was not accessible to them.

But at the end of the day, youve got to make those difficult calls, youve got to apply the law. Youve got to find that right balance of being tough and being fair and being compassionate and observing and following the law, she said. I think that Judge Kazen presented that right balance of tempering mercy with strength. Not everybody can do that. It takes time to grow into that.

Kazen was always interested in hearing about his colleagues lives; they would call him Curious George, Marmolejo said. He would keep up with everyones cases and paid great attention to detail.

Kazen read the Laredo Morning Times every morning. If a case in Marmolejos court was in the paper, he would cut out the article, write a note on his stationary with a comment on the case  always something supportive or funny  paperclip it to the article and have it delivered to Marmolejos office.

The job of a federal judge, by nature, is very isolating. And those who didnt know Kazen would say that he was shy. But Marmolejo remembers his dry, brilliant sense of humor.

Magistrate Judge Diana Song Quirogas sister is a successful purse designer in Los Angeles and gives each of her bags a womans name. Judge Marmolejo was talking about it with Kazen and in passing mentioned how cool it would be to have a purse named after her.

So surreptitiously, Kazen and Quiroga worked with her sister, whose brand is called Melie Bianco, to have a purse designed and named after Marmolejo.

During one of their lunch breaks, Marmolejo was called into a conference room where Kazen was holding a presentation. All the law clerks and other judges were there, and Marmolejo thought maybe he would be giving a legal lecture. Kazen, dressed up and at the lectern, was holding a Marina purse, a cross-body bag with a prim bow on it, and had gathered everyone together to unveil it for Marmolejo.

Kazen comes from a family of attorneys and judges; his son John Kazen is a U.S. magistrate judge in Laredo. Judge John Kazen said he and his siblings thought of their dad as a fantastic father figure, loving grandfather and incredible role model.

Eldest son George D. Kazen said he was also on a path to become a lawyer, but his father helped point him in another direction. After college, Judge Kazen encouraged his son to take a break, and George D. Kazen decided to stay in banking and finance.

He was never judgmental, never opinionated on where we were going with our lives as long as we were happy with what we were doing, George D. Kazen said. He had no aspirations, no one particular mission for either one of us, other than to be happy.

His father had three loves in life  his wife Barbara, who passed away in 2011; the law; and the church, George D. Kazen said. But his life was really the law. When Judge Kazen retired in March 2018, he had no other hobbies, and it was a challenging adjustment, his son George said.

McAllen U.S. District Court Judge Ricardo Hinojosa took the bench not long after Kazen in 1983. He would call Kazen to talk about their cases and their work. Both being on the border, they had very similar dockets.

We had a good personal relationship. I trusted his judgment very much and his viewpoint on legal issues, Hinojosa said. ... He was the type of person you always feel comfortable with, who spends time visiting with you.

Attorney Donato Ramos Sr. worked for Kazens law firm, Mann, Castillon, Freed & Kazen, beginning in 1971 and remained great friends with him until his death.

Ramos believes Kazen was so brilliant and so ethical that he could have served on the U.S. Supreme Court. Because beyond his talent, he was also an extremely hard worker  a deadly combination, Ramos said.

We lost a true legend of Laredo. You could put him up against anyone that has had an influence on Laredo. I dont know if anyone can exceed what he did or the kind of person that he was, Ramos said.

Over the years, Ramos has tried cases before Kazens court. In McBee v. Jim Hogg County, newly-elected Sheriff Gilbert Ybanez did not reappoint any of the predecessors sheriffs deputies who had campaigned against Ybanez. Former Deputy Jimmie McBee filed a lawsuit claiming this violated her First Amendment right.

Kazen ruled in McBees favor. But Ramos, representing the county, appealed the case, and the U.S. Court of Appeals Fifth Circuit reversed. This was one of the few times Ramos beat Kazen, he said.

As friends, Ramos and Kazen would shoot the bull, talking generally about the law, its principles, their mutual friends, Laredo news and his wife Barbara, who he missed tremendously following her death, Ramos said.

Kazen wrote Mayor Pete Saenz a letter of recommendation when he first applied to law school, and many years later he administered his oath of office when he became mayor.

... For such gestures, along with the many visits we had throughout his life, I am truly grateful, Saenz said in a statement. My heartfelt prayers and condolences to the entire Kazen family, his surviving children and extended family members and friends. He will definitely be missed but not forgotten; he left for us his immense legacy for us to emulate and appreciate. May he rest in peace.

Julia Wallace may be reached at 956-728-2543 or jwallace@lmtonline.com
Amid gloomy weather befitting the mood, community members and leaders gathered Saturday at the George P. Kazen Federal Building and United States Courthouse for the memorial service of the legal legend the downtown Laredo building is named after.

Cloudy skies and a strong prognostication of rain did not deter attendance at Judge George P. Kazens memorial tribute, Webb County Court-at-Law Judge Victor Villarreal said. Speakers told of his legal mind, his devotion to faith and his mentorship.

For Villarreal, however, what stood out the most about Kazen was the former federal judge always treated everyone as colleagues regardless of their titles or jurisdictions.

He mentored other judges and treated other judges as equals, Villarreal said.

Former Laredo Mayor Raul Salinas was a longtime friend of the late judge. He called the memorial one of the most outstanding he has ever seen for a legal official in the city and one he deserved.

I knew him since my arrival to Laredo when I was transferred from Washington to the FBI office here in Laredo in 1988 when I first got to Laredo and made a wonderful friendship with him, professional and personal, Salinas said. He was just an amazing, outstanding individual both personally and professionally. He had an outstanding legal mind, hardworking, so dedicated, yet in such an important position he never lost sight of his humbleness as he was always humble and caring.

One of his fondest memories of Kazen is when they had lunch at the chambers and discussed what was happening in the community with so much interest. He said Kazen was always very humorous as he could always tell a quick joke.

Villarreal said most of his interactions with Kazen were outside of the courtroom. He said they helped him understand who he was as a man and what his legacy means now for the people of Laredo.

I got to know him in yearly planning committee meetings for red mass and periodically at the Hour of Fellowship, Villarreal said. I will remember most his devotion to faith. His legacy demonstrates that a judges obligations are supported and strengthened by faith.

Irma Rodriguez knew Kazen because of his reputation and because her daughter worked for him in the 90s. She was glad to attend the memorial even amid the pandemic.

When I found out, I automatically called my daughter who now lives in Austin and told her about it, and she was completely shocked and distraught, Rodriguez said. Even though she could not come because of work and her family, I did come to the event and paid respects to a man that is not only seen as good by the community but all the people that met him or interacted with him in some light.

Kazens legacy will live on for years to come thanks to who he was, what he represented and what he did for Laredo.

I think that his legacy will help show his life and will allow his name to live forever, Salinas said. He is one of the most outstanding jurists in the country and was an example to those who serve the public and an amazing mentor to many, and the way he carried himself will help develop the lives of others. The void he leaves behind is his total leadership as a chief judge and many things and other contributions that he will leave as he never saw fit to be too busy to help out mankind.

Rodriguez said the common recognition of the Kazen name shows how important he was for the community.

The name Kazen is already famous in a town mostly full of Hispanic surnames and people of the Hispanic community, Rodriguez said. That shows how important, relevant and vital he was to the community, and we will definitely not see another like him in a lifetime.

Salinas is mourning the loss to the community but most importantly the loss of his friend.

I will miss my friend, and he had a particularly great sense of humor, Salinas said. I consider him to be the best of lo nuestro.

jorge.vela@lmtonline.com
In the era of innovation and the current pandemic situation, Laredo College continues to offer more educational alternatives for students to reach their academic goals. Therefore, it decided to continue offering students more options such as online, on-campus and hybrid courses, a combination of on-campus and online instruction.

A hybrid course is a blend between two modes of instructional methods of learning in which students enjoy the flexibility of a virtual class with scheduled face-to-face meetings. A traditional hybrid course includes 50% to 85% of the planned instruction online with on-campus, face-to-face instruction also included.

These courses rely upon the similar elements used in online courses with the included face-to-face mode of instruction. Students will need to adhere to the class schedule for face-to-face meetings.

When students log in to their virtual courses through CANVAS, the online learning management system used at LC, students can interact with their instructors and classmates asynchronously. During the face-to-face component of their classes, students will be able to actively participate in in-class activities established by their instructor.

LC is determined to continue educating and transforming students with innovative learning techniques that impact the community as a whole, Laredo College president Dr. Ricardo J. Solis said. Hybrid courses facilitate learning for students by blending both the online and face-to-face course environments.

To enroll in hybrid courses, students only need access to the internet through a computer or a tablet. In some cases, a web camera and traditional school supplies will be required. Students will also need the proper personal protective equipment to attend in-person instruction such as face coverings and must follow health and safety guidelines such as keeping a safe distance, washing their hands and disinfecting commonly used areas.

Our institution continues to follow the proactive measures outlined by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to comply with health and safety protocols and academic requirements. Room capacity limitation, proper equipment implementation and safety precautions will be followed to protect the health of students and employees.

Students may obtain the best of both worlds by enrolling in hybrid courses at Laredo College for summer sessions I and II. Students who enroll in hybrid courses are not required to pay additional fees for the upcoming summer sessions. Financial aid, scholarship opportunities and payment plans are available for those students who qualify.

For more information, current and prospective students can call (956) 721-5109 or (956) 794-4110, visit laredo.edu, email admissions@laredo.edu or visit the Ft. McIntosh Campus or South Campus.
Last month, Auckland Council released the results of an independent Colmar Brunton survey, which asked more than 4000 Aucklanders about our proposed 10-year budget.

The survey found 46 percent support for Councils overall proposed 10-year budget, with 37 percent opposed. Six percent supported the other option, while 11 percent said they didnt know.

The survey was part of Councils consultation on its 10-year budget. It also asked whether respondents supported increased investment in climate change action. The survey revealed strong support for this  60 percent support, 26 percent opposed.

Councils own consultation also asked these questions, as well as questions on other topics. A similar level of support was seen for increased investment in climate change in Councils consultation  61 percent support, 27 percent opposed.

Forty-five percent of respondents to the councils consultation supported both an extension of, and an increase to, the water quality targeted rate.

Generally, when you ask ratepayers whether or not they want a rates increase, you would expect the answer to be no.

However, the Colmar Brunton survey shows that Aucklanders understand the need for the city to invest in its future and they dont want to see in Auckland the major failures in areas like water infrastructure that have occurred recently in other New Zealand cities.

It suggests people also understand that, even in the face of the up to $1 billion loss of income caused to Council by Covid-19, we need to increase expenditure on infrastructure so that we can continue to deliver critical transport services, as well as the services needed for new housing development and for sustaining our environment.

The strength of the Colmar Brunton survey is that it is carried out independently and reflects a demographically representative outcome from a cross-section of people. Its the best indicator of what Aucklanders want for their city, reflecting the views of the wider community, not just the loudest voices. And what the wider community wants is to invest in the critical housing, water, transport and environmental infrastructure our city needs for today and for future generations.

In submissions to Auckland Councils consultation (rather than the results of the independent Colmar Brunton survey), views on the overall budget were evenly split. Excluding pro forma submissions, 42 percent of respondents were in favour of the overall proposed budget, with 43 percent opposed.

Following consideration of feedback and deliberation by councillors, the 10-year Budget is to be adopted in June.

Info: ourauckland.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/
The Daily News-Miner encourages residents to make themselves heard through the Opinion pages. Readers' letters and columns also appear online at newsminer.com. Contact the editor with questions at letters@newsminer.com or call 459-7574.

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It has been three years since Anzac Day could be marked with public services, large and small. With most local services cancelled because of the Christchurch mosque attacks in 2019, and all services cancelled last year because of level 4 lockdown, numbers attending were good this Anzac Day on the Hibiscus Coast.

Hibiscus Coast Community RSA president, David Dryden, says his organisation was overwhelmed with the support they received this Anzac Day at all three of its services. He says the turnout at the dawn service was particularly pleasing. We want to thank the community for attending our services to show respect to past and current service personnel, he says. Photos, Photo Carnival.

Beachside service draws hundreds

Around 400 people of all ages attended the service at Orewa Remembrance Reserve. Organiser and local board member Andy Dunn says this service grows year by year.

Flowers and poppies, including handmade ones, were placed on the cenotaph by members of the public once official wreaths had been laid by Whangaparaoa MP Mark Mitchell, local Councillors and members of the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board.

Veteran Ron Cackett, 95, remembers what it was like to be torpedoed. Ron served in World War II as an Able Seaman/Gun-layer in the British Royal Navy. He was on the escort carrier HMS Thane which operated in the North Atlantic protecting convoys and ferrying aircraft. On January 15, 1945, while ferrying aircraft in the Irish Sea, the ship was torpedoed by a German submarine and severely damaged. Ten men were killed. The ship didnt go down, but most of my mates ended up in bits, Ron says. Now living in Evelyn Page village, Ron came to the Orewa Remembrance Reserve Anzac service to lay a poppy on the cenotaph in honour of those mates.

Commander Frank Rands, right, and bugler Able Musician Oliver Furneaux at the Orewa Remembrance Reserve service.

It has been three years since Anzac Day could be marked with public services, large and small. With most local services cancelled because of the Christchurch mosque attacks in 2019, and all services cancelled last year because of level 4 lockdown, numbers attending were good this Anzac Day on the Hibiscus Coast. More photos, www.localmatters.co.nz

The Hibiscus Coast & District Pipe Band at the head of the parade at Upper Waiwera. Left, Aunty Jean Dickinson, centre, as the last McCathie family member, was wished a happy birthday. Photos, Lorry McCarthy.

Inspired by a poppy made from vinyl records at the Orewa hospice shop, Hibiscus Matters graphic designer Lorry McCarthy made her own versions, to place at various services she attended, including on the Upper Waiwera cenotaph.


Perry Sansom, left, said riders were a little sore in the saddle but otherwise enjoying their ride.



Sir John Kirwan with former TV presenter Mark Leishman.

Not many would choose to undertake a 3300km road trip on a scooter, but 15 men rode their Vespas from Cape Reinga to Bluff to raise money for mental health last month.

On their way down, the convoy was met by TV crews and media at the home of former TVNZ presenter Mark Leishman in Matakana.

Among the riders was mental health advocate and former All Black, Sir John Kirwan, who is also an avid lover of Vespas.

Sir John said he was a little apprehensive about pushing his scooter to 100kph on the motorway but eased into it eventually.

He formerly rode Vespas in Italy, where he lived part time for 14 years with his Italian wife.

I complained to my dad once about having to fly to Italy. He said, it beats swimming son. I view this the same way. I could be riding a horse the length of New Zealand, he said.

Sir John said it was great to be able to drive down the country and reflect on mental health in the company of old mates and new friends.

We need to normalise talking about mental health. Sometimes life gets on top of us, and we need to take the stigma out of that.

The ride was organised by agricultural packing businessman Perry Sansom. He had recently bought a Vespa and wanted to ride it around New Zealand and decided to do it for a cause.

I figured it could get lonely by yourself on a scooter, so I decided to pull in some mates.

Some of his friends even got their scooter license and bought second hand Vespas just to be able to participate in the ride. Others joined in from an Auckland Vespa riding club.

The ride can be a bit bumpy on a Vespa, but it has to be a challenge if you want to raise money, Perry said.

We wanted to remind Kiwis that everyone  and we mean everyone  has their own state of mental health, with ups and downs, and that every so often some of us need a helping hand to get through.

The riders goal was to raise $100,000, but they have had to increase it twice after raising more than $200,000 even before setting off thanks to some enthusiastic fundraisers.

Newmarket wine merchant Jean-Christophe Poizat raised $40,000 thanks to a network of generous clients.

Westpac bank chief executive David MacLean similarly chipped in.

Were taking time to do something that we love and to connect with people, and thats what mental health means to me, David said.

This is about reminding one another that our mental health matters, as much as, if not more than our physical health. Its something we all need to think about, talk about, and work on.
Mason Lee Miller, of Lockport, son of Kaitlyn LaJoie and John Miller, Jr., passed away June 5, 2021. Brother of Isaiah and Jeremiah; grandson of Kenneth and Jennifer LaJoie, Sandra Green and John Miller, Sr.; also survived by great-grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins. Services will be pr
Longford-based MACE stores have teamed up with Ireland out-half Johnny Sexton to offer people the opportunity to share in a prize-fund of 10,000 in a community initiative whereby customers and the public nominate their Unsung Hero.

MACE is challenging the people of Longford to nominate that special someone who goes the extra mile to make a difference, but in many cases do not get the recognition they deserve. They want people to nominate their unsung hero, and to tell them which award you think they should win and why. There are five special individual awards with a prize of 1,000 for the most worthy hero in each category.

The individual Award Categories are:

Charity Award

Child & Youth Award

Environment Award

Sports, Health & Well-being Award

MACE Staff Award

The special overall MACE Community Award will single out someone from around Ireland who really goes over and above to give something back to their community.

Do you know someone who gives themselves selflessly to benefit a charity organisation or the environment?

If so, then we want to hear from you. Nominate that person by logging onto www.mace.ie/unsung-heroes and highlighting just why they deserve to be recognised as an Unsung Hero.

Each category winner will receive 1,000 while the overall special MACE Community Unsung Hero will receive an overall prize of 5,000.

MACE Ambassador Johnny Sexton is very excited to be part of an initiative that sees the public nominate someone special to their community who embodies all that is good about their community, someone who truly is a local hero.

Im delighted to be a part of this exciting initiative. The last year-and-a-half has been a very challenging time for all of us and little acts of kindness have gone a long way to help people. The Unsung Hero is a person who puts the needs of others ahead of their own and I am really looking forward to seeing the wide range of thoughtful and spontaneous acts by people in communities all around the country. I am genuinely proud to be working with MACE in promoting this positive community initiative throughout towns and villages in Ireland.

Closing date for entries is May 31, 2021 and entering couldnt be simpler. Log onto www.mace.ie/unsung-heroes and nominate that special someone you believe is a true Unsung Hero. There is no limit on the number of award categories you can enter and you can even enter yourself.

MACE Sales Director, Daniel OConnell, commented, We all know that person who consistently goes out of their way to do something nice or special for someone and this is your chance to acknowledge their kindness. MACE is determined to contribute positively to the communities we serve by supporting those that lead a life filled with acts of kindness and we want to celebrate the Unsung Heroes all around Ireland.

Longford agri land fetches up to 7,900 per acre A new land report shows that Longford agri land prices range from 5,500 to 7,900 per acre.
Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland (SCSI) auctioneers and valuers say land prices remained resilient last year despite the threat posed by Covid and are predicted to rise by 4% on average this year, underpinned by a rise in farm incomes as well as strong demand and reduced supply.

According to the SCSI / Teagasc Agricultural Land Market Review and Outlook Report 2021 the price in Leinster for an acre of non-residential land under 50 acres last year ranged from an average of 7,400 for poor land to 11,200 for good quality.

The report found that Leinster had the highest prices in 2020 because of the higher quality of land in the province and the high demand for it.

For good land, less than 50 acres, average prices in the province ranged from a high of 13,600 in Kildare  the highest in the country - to 7,900 in Longford, while the prices for poor quality ranged from a high of 8,300 per acre in Kildare to 5,500, again in Longford.

The two prices quoted for poor and good quality land in Longford were the lowest in the province.

The survey of 156 auctioneers and valuers from all over the country  which was conducted in February 2021  found that demand for rented ground also remains strong with rents this year expected to rise by 8% in Leinster, 6% in Connacht/Ulster and 5% in Munster.

Jonathan Quinn of Quinn Property Partners, Chair of the SCSIs Residential Agency Group, said that lockdowns due to Covid had led to a reduction in the volume of sales.

The inability to view holdings or physical auctions led to a significant increase in the number of sellers postponing plans to sell land. In our survey, over a third of agents (35%) reported a decrease in the volume of land sold in 2020 compared with 19% in 2019. Virtual viewing options have been available to sellers, but clearly many have a preference for more traditional auction sales.

Agents in Leinster say younger farmers with a Green Certificate, which is a level 5 qualification are helping to drive the market. However, they caution that land price expectations from some vendors are simply unrealistic at this present time.

While Covid has affected sales activity, it hasnt affected output or prices and as a result farmer confidence about the future has been unaffected. The land market has shown strong resilience throughout the pandemic and agents believe prices will rise on average by 4% this year.

Mr Quinn added, The low level of supply is again an issue in the rental market, but its not Covid related.

Here the issue is leases with twenty-four per-cent of agents reporting a decline in the volume of land leases in 2020 compared to just 8% in 2019 as more land is locked up in long-term leases.
(Alliance News) - Farxiga has been approved by the US Food & Drug Administration for treatment of chronic kidney disease, AstraZeneca PLC said late Friday.

The approval of Farxiga, whose generic name is dapagliflozin, "is the most significant advancement in the treatment of chronic kidney disease in more than 20 years," the Cambridge, England-based pharmaceutical firm said.

The US approval was based on positive results from the DAPA-CKD Phase III trial, AstraZeneca said, and follows the grant of a priority review by the FDA earlier this year.

The approval of Farxiga was for the reduction in the risk of sustained estimated glomerular filtration rate decline, end-stage kidney disease, cardiovascular death and hospitalisation for heart failure in adults with chronic kidney disease at risk of progression. Some 37 million people in the US have chronic kidney disease, Astra noted.

"Today's approval is the most significant advancement in the treatment of chronic kidney disease in more than 20 years," said Mene Pangalos, executive vice president of BioPharmaceuticals R&D at AstraZeneca. "We've shown impressive efficacy for Farxiga in type-2 diabetes, heart failure with reduced ejection fraction and, most recently, chronic kidney disease, and we are thrilled to be able to bring this medicine to millions of patients in the US."

By Tom Waite; thomaslwaite@alliancenews.com

Copyright 2021 Alliance News Limited. All Rights Reserved.
(Alliance News) - The US has "no closer ally, no closer partner" than the UK, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said as he hailed the "special relationship".

US President Joe Biden's victory marked the start of a new chapter in the "special relationship" following a turbulent and chaotic period under Donald Trump.

Both Theresa May and then Boris Johnson sought to keep close ties with the White House, but President Trump's erratic behaviour made that difficult and occasionally embarrassing for the two UK prime ministers.

Blinken has described the relationship as "enduring" and "effective", while both he and UK Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab spoke of the two nations standing "shoulder to shoulder".

In a joint UK-US press conference, Blinken said President Biden is "very much looking forward" to being in the UK for G7.

He said it is the 75th anniversary of Sir Winston Churchill describing the "special relationship" between the US and UK, adding: "Three quarters of a century later, that special relationship is enduring. It's effective, it's dynamic, and it is close to the hearts of the American people.

"The work we do together serves our people's interests across a vast array of issues."

Blinken told the press conference: "I think our bilateral relationship is also vital to the world. The work that we do together advances progress on the most urgent global issues and global issues that are having a real impact on the lives of our citizens."

Speaking about the US and UK, Blinken said: "We're connected. It's often said but always important to reaffirm. We're connected by ties of friendship, family, history, shared values, and shared sacrifice.

"We've been reminded of that again in recent weeks as we prepare to draw down our forces from Afghanistan.

"We've stood shoulder to shoulder for nearly 20 years, sharing a mission and having each others' backs. We'll never forget it.

"The US has no closer ally, no closer partner, than the UK, and I'm very glad for the chance to say that again here today."

Raab said he and Blinken discussed a whole range of security issues.

"Iran, Afghanistan, continuing concerns about Russia, in particular, on the border with Ukraine.

"We stand shoulder to shoulder on these issues and I welcome the US's firm re-commitment to the Nato alliance."

Blinken said: "I also want to thank the UK for joining us in holding Russia to account for its reckless and aggressive actions.

"We have reaffirmed our unwavering support for the independent sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine, which I'll be visiting later this week."

Blinken said the US and UK are "fully committed" to Nato, and to maintaining transatlantic unity "in defence to our common values and in response to direct threats".

By Catherine Wylie, PA

source: PA

Copyright 2021 Alliance News Limited. All Rights Reserved.
With prices soaring and inventory down, this spring may prove to be as unusual a home buying and selling season as last year's pandemic-affect
Brennan will ask a Manhattan judge to vacate and dismiss the convictions of 24 people who pleaded guilty to felony crimes they did not commit after their arrests by Franco. Four others who pleaded guilty to lesser charges or had their cases tossed after attending mandatory programs will have their arrest records sealed, Brennans spokeswoman added.
Take a few minutes and scroll through some of the local news from the past week:
Riley Township Hall will be one of the three locations for voters in the north Macomb school district Tuesday.
Exton, PA (19341)

Today

Cloudy this morning with thunderstorms developing this afternoon. High 86F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%..

Tonight

Mostly cloudy skies with a few showers after midnight. Low 69F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%.
Greg Sukiennik has worked at all three Vermont News & Media newspapers and was their managing editor from 2017-19. He previously worked for ESPN.com, for the AP in Boston, and at The Berkshire Eagle in Pittsfield, Mass.
And so began his search for the origin of the term resurrected decades later by Charles Gillett as president of the New York Convention and Visitors Bureau. In 1991, Cohens book on the origins of the expression was published, with one reviewer later noting the author lays out the evidence in painstaking detail.
After requiring all members of its community to receive a COVID-19 vaccine to return to campus in the fall, Boston University will begin administering doses to students, faculty and staff on Monday.

The vaccine will be administered through Friday and appointments are required after Boston Medical Center provided the university with several thousand doses. Student Health Services emailed students last week notifying them how to book an appointment, the school said. Faculty and staff were emailed on Sunday about the clinics.

The clinics will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Fitness and Recreation Center and will provide the Moderna vaccine. Those receiving the vaccine are asked to use the 3-Court Gym entrance across from 25 Buick Street.

This weeks clinic is for people requiring their first shot of the vaccine, the school said. Those who have already received a first shot should get their second at the site of their first inoculation.

Given the timing of students leaving for the semester, BMC recognized this important opportunity to help students get vaccinated, Judy Platt, director of SHS and chair of BUs Medical Advisory Group told BU Today. Providing doses directly to BU allows us to provide quick and easier access to vaccination appointments for members of the BU community. We opened up appointments first to students and are fortunate to be able to extend this opportunity to faculty and staff.

Boston University is one of hundreds of colleges and universities across the country, including dozens in Massachusetts, requiring students, staff and faculty to be vaccinated to return to campus in the fall.

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Tufts University is investigating a pair of incidents that occurred over the past week that included anti-Asian rhetoric followed by a large swastika found painted on a shed in campus, school president Tony Monaco said in a statement on Sunday.

Monaco said the first incident involved several Asian students walking along Professors Row when they were verbally assaulted with hateful anti-Asian rhetoric from individuals in a passing vehicle. The second involved a large swastika appearing on the Bello Field shed.

Let me state as clearly as I can: Acts of anti-Asian hate and anti-Semitism such as these are unacceptable and violate what we stand for as a community, Monaco said in the statement. I acknowledge the significant harm that these incidents can have on the Asian and Jewish communities, respectively. All of us have a responsibility to speak out against such bigotry.

Tufts University police are conducting investigations of the incident. At this point, authorities are not certain whether the perpetrators in either case are members of the Tufts University community, Monaco said.

Monaco encouraged anyone with information about these incident to contact police at 617-627-3030. Anonymous tips can also be filed under the discrimination heading in Ethicspoint.

Unfortunately, these anti-Asian and anti-Semitic incidents are part of a larger trend in the United States. Our campus has not been immune to this trend as complaints of bias to our Office of Equal Opportunity have increased significantly over the past several years. This is not acceptable, Monaco said. Though we have been striving to become a more just, more equitable, and more diverse university, incidents of bias and hate such as these demonstrate that we still have far to go.

Related Content:
Two women were fatally stabbed Sunday afternoon in Dorchester, Boston police confirmed.

Boston Police Sgt. Detective John Boyle said police responded just before 12:30 p.m. to 26 Taft St. for a report of a stabbing.

Officers located two women inside the home. One woman was pronounced dead at the scene. The second woman was rushed to a local hospital where she was later pronounced dead, Boyle said.

One adult male was taken into custody following the stabbings. Police could not release any further details about the man as the investigation continued.

Two minor children were taken to a local hospital for an evaluation, but they were not injured. A dog was found injured at the scene.
Gov. Charlie Baker wants Massachusetts residents to get vaccinated, but he has stopped short of requiring COVID-19 vaccinations for state employees.

The Republican governor on Monday stood firm on his decision not to mandate vaccinations for state employees after being asked about possible mandates in response to vaccine hesitancy.

The idea that I would kick somebody out of a job, especially in the kind of economy we have now, because they wouldnt get vaccinated right away on an EUA-approved vaccine, no, Im not going to play that game, Baker said, referring to the emergency use authorization granted to the vaccine candidates over the past six months. I think what we ought to be doing is making it easier for people and creating positive opportunities for people to get vaccinated.

More than 70% of eligible Massachusetts residents have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, meaning they received the single-dose Johnson & Johnson shot or at least one of the two shots of the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine.

Baker and Dr. Paul Biddinger, who has advised the state throughout the pandemic, focused their attention to the other 30% Monday morning.

Baker touted the ease of getting a vaccine appointment compared to two or three months ago when people would refresh the state or CVS websites at midnight in search of an open slot.

Biddinger said data coming in from millions of COVID-19 vaccinations show the vaccines are safe and effective. Fully vaccinated people, he added, are more than 29 times less at risk of dying from COVID-19 complications than those who arent.

More than 7,600 staffers at state prisons and county jails have been vaccinated, but more than half as many have refused a COVID-19 vaccine, according to data published Thursday by the state Department of Correction.

At least 3,074 state prison employees refused a vaccine, though the state notes those employees were last surveyed before vaccination clinics began and the data doesnt include vaccinations administered outside the facilities.

Another 1,556 have refused vaccinations at county jails, including 355 at the Bristol County House of Correction and Jail and 480 across three facilities run by the Hampden County Correctional Center.

Instead of mandates, Baker said he will focus on expanding vaccination opportunities rather than just getting masses of people vaccinated as soon as possible. The administration plans to close four of its seven super vaccination sites in early June: Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, the DoubleTree at Danvers and Natick Mall. The large-scale, privately run sites in Springfield, Dartmouth and Boston will remain open for now.

Related Content:
Massachusetts public health officials on Sunday announced 786 new COVID-19 cases and four deaths, with active cases continuing to decline statewide.

As of Sunday, there are an estimated 24,104 active cases, down by more than 500 from Saturdays 24,631. There were 25,474 active cases on Friday, according to the state Department of Public Health.

Since the pandemic hit the U.S. more than a year ago, the state has seen at least 647,768 residents test positive and 17,270 die, DPH said Sunday.

More than 2.6 million residents are now fully vaccinated, according to the states daily vaccination report. More than 6.2 million have received at least one dose of the Pfizer or Moderna two-dose vaccines. Massachusetts health care providers, vaccination sites and pharmacies have used 85% of the doses shipped across the state, DPH reported.

The seven-day average rate of positive tests stands at 1.49%, down from Saturdays 1.56%.

The latest totals from DPH are based on 61,480 new molecular tests.

As of Sunday, 525 people are currently hospitalized with the virus in Massachusetts, including 143 patients in intensive care and 81 who are intubated.

Last week, the state lifted its outdoor mask mandate in places where social distancing is possible. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention similarly updated its mask guidelines last week, noting that its safe for fully vaccinated Americans to take part in a host of outdoor activities without facial coverings. The CDC still advises against attending large gatherings, concerts or parades without a mask.

In Massachusetts, masks are still required in indoor public places, except for when eating or drinking, and at outdoor events when distancing is not possible.

Twenty-six cities and towns in Massachusetts are currently considered high-risk for transmission of the virus, down from nearly 50 the week prior.

Here are the total COVID cases by county:

Barnstable County: 13,573

Berkshire County: 6,338

Bristol County: 64,985

Dukes County: 1,278

Essex County: 95,677

Franklin County: 2,480

Hampden County: 50,846

Hampshire County: 8,969

Middlesex County: 132,603

Nantucket County: 1,495

Norfolk County: 53,846

Plymouth County: 47,964

Suffolk County: 91,087

Worcester County: 75,506

Related Content:
SPRINGFIELD  Municipal and health officials urged residents Monday to step up COVID-19 vaccinations, saying the city lags behind statewide vaccination rates despite many open appointments and expanding neighborhood clinics.

While the number of new COVID-19 cases dropped significantly among Springfield residents last week, officials said vaccination rates can greatly improve, particularly among many younger adults who appear unwilling or hesitant to get the vaccines.

There is no excuse anymore, Mayor Domenic J. Sarno said during the weekly COVID-19 update at City Hall. There is plenty of opportunity to get vaccinated. Thats the number one goal right now  get vaccinated. That will make it much more quicker for us to get these masks off, be able to give hugs instead of air hugs, and to move forward with our activities and our economy.

There were 425 new cases of COVID-19 among Springfield residents last week, April 25 to May 1, as compared to 504 new cases the week before., a reduction of 79 cases, officials said.

There were no new deaths reported among Springfield residents..

The city, however, remains in the red category for communities at greatest risk of the virus, and vaccinations are the key to the citys recovery, officials said.

Health and Human Services Commissioner Helen R. Caulton-Harris said that 89% of the residents who got the virus last week are ages 50 and under, including 59% that are 30 and under.

It is apparent that people over age 50 are at the lowest percentage rate of those getting COVID-19, and contributing to the lower number of people who are hospitalized or dying from the virus.

Thats directly related to vaccination, Caulton-Harris said.

But Springfield is lagging behind the state, Caulton-Harris said.

As of April 28, there were 49,942 Springfield residents, 32%, who have received at least one vaccine dose, Caulton-Harris said, citing the state statistical report.

That compares to Massachusetts in which 3,681,397 residents had gotten at least one vaccine shot, as of April 28, or 53% of the state population.

As you can see, the city of Springfield is lagging behind as far as that data is concerned, Caulton-Harris said.

In addition, 20.7% of Springfields residents are fully vaccinated, as compared to the states fully vaccinated rate of 35%, Caulton-Harris said.

On Monday, Gov. Charlie Baker set a goal of 4.1 million people to be fully vaccinated by the beginning of June, and said that mobile clinics such as those in Springfield have particularly effective.

Baker said thee next phase of the state effort will including doubling the state vaccine allocation for the 20 most disproportionally impacted communities. and expanding mobile vaccine clincs.

Caulton-Harris said the city is continuing strategies to encourage more people to get vaccinated, including new stand-up vaccination clinics for hard-to-reach populations, as well as the mass vaccination site at the Eastfield Mall on Boston Road.

In addition, there is an expanded outreach efforts including plans that to target residents who are ages 18 to 35, who show low vaccination rates, Caulton-Harris said.

The plans will be announced soon to educate, communicate and relate to that age group, she said.

This lag in vaccinations occur despite many openings that are occurring at clinics sponsored by the city, Baystate Health and Mercy Medical Center.

Those openings, including cancelled appointments, are being filled by appointment and some walk-in opportunities, officials said.

The status of clinics can be found on the citys COVID web site and the hospital web sites, officials said.

Baystate Health had 54 patients hospitalized with COVID-19 as of Monday, as compared to 78 patients with the virus a week ago.

Mercy Medical Center had 12 patients with COVID-19, the same as a week ago.

Baystate Health has eased its visitors policy as done previously at Mercy Medical Center. Details can be found at the hospital web sites.
The growing number of residents vaccinated against the coronavirus have a bit more leeway when it comes to guidelines in Massachusetts, including travel and visiting with other people.

Being fully vaccinated means a person has received two doses of either the Moderna or Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines or a single dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine at least two weeks ago. The vaccine does not take its full effect until 14 days has passed.

It also does not apply to people who have symptoms of COVID-19, even if they have been fully vaccinated.

More than 2 million people who live, work or study in Massachusetts are fully vaccinated against the virus. In the past five months, 1,798 fully vaccinated residents tested positive for COVID-19  0.1% of the total number.

All individuals, vaccinated or not, should continue to wear masks indoors when in public, monitor for symptoms and get tested. All people attending large gatherings, such as weddings and concerts, should also follow the states guidelines.

There are a few differences, however, when it comes to guidelines for those vaccinated versus those not vaccinated for the coronavirus. See below for more.

Those vaccinated against COVID-19 should follow these guidelines:

No mask is needed when visiting with other people who have also been fully vaccinated.

Individuals do not need to wear a mask when outside and socially distant from others, unless stated by the city or town

Those traveling to Massachusetts do not need to quarantine.

Residents returning to Massachusetts after traveling do not need to quarantine.

For those traveling internationally , a person will need to get a negative COVID-19 test result no more than 3 days before travel or documentation of recovery from COVID-19 in the past 3 months before they board a flight. After traveling, travelers should get tested within 3-5 days but do not need to quarantine.

Wear a mask while traveling.

Wear a mask when visiting with people who have not been fully vaccinated.

Continue wearing a mask when playing sports, including high school sports.

Hospital visitation restrictions have not changed. Continued to follow individual policies.

Not vaccinated against COVID-19 guidelines:

Individuals do not need to wear a mask when outside and socially distant from others, unless stated by the city or town

Continue to wear a mask when visiting with other people.

Those traveling to Massachusetts will need to quarantine for 10 days or get tested.

Residents returning to Massachusetts after traveling will need to quarantine for 10 days or get tested.

For those traveling internationally, a person will need to get a negative COVID-19 test result no more than three days before travel or documentation of recovery from COVID-19 in the past three months before they board a flight. Afterward, travelers will need to quarantine for seven days and get tested.

Wear a mask while traveling.

Continue wearing a mask when playing sports, including high school sports.

Hospital visitation restrictions have not changed. Continued to follow individual policies.

For more on the states guidelines, click here.

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Some people crave silence, but not Grammy Award-winning artist Nile Rodgers.

Rodgers told British newspaper The Sunday Times that he always has 11 televisions running at home to create an atmosphere of white noise to help his creative process. He said his mind is like a hyperactive music machine and the TVs noise helps him.

I need a distraction to narrow my focus, so I have televisions switched on all over my house 24 hours a day, creating a white noise in the background, the 68-year-old founder of Chic said. The cable company says I have the most TVs in one house  its 11 right now  of anyone theyve ever known, but I just cant function without that distraction.

Rodgers even sleeps with the cacophony.

I always fall asleep with the TV on, only to wake the next morning when I just laugh and think to myself: Jesus, how the hell did I sleep through that? he said.
SPRINGFIELD  Baystate Health has launched its partnership with for-profit Kindred Health Services with the opening of a temporary 12-bed child-and-adolescent behavioral health unit as the two continue plans for their $55 million, 150-bed psychiatric hospital,

The temporary unit restores inpatient pediatric psychiatric services to Western Massachusetts. Mercy Medical Center, part of Trinity Health Of New England, closed Providence Behavioral Hospital in June. The hospital had a 24-bed pediatric psychiatric unit that was the only one in the region.

This new unit serves as a bridge allowing us to provide inpatient psychiatric care for children and adolescents over the next two years until our new Baystate-Kindred Healthcare joint venture behavioral health hospital opens with a permanent pediatric-adolescent unit, said Dr. Barry Sarvet, chair of Baystates psychiatry department.

Baystate Health had announced plans for the unit in January, helped by state funding incentives to ease acute psychiatric bed shortages, and called its rapid development within a hospital a very complex project and one were quite proud of.

Between what we are doing and the efforts of other systems in the state it is going to have a major impact, said Sarvet of how the unit will help ease a shortage of inpatient psychiatric beds for children and adolescents in the commonwealth that has been made worse by the coronavirus pandemic. It will be a significant dent.

Baystate Health has some 98 inpatient psychiatric units for adults, including geriatrics, but this is its first such unit for children and adolescents. He added the unit is ramping up gradually to full capacity as staff are hired and trained.

While the new temporary unit will be owned and operated by Baystate Health, our partners at Kindred Behavioral Health Services will be assisting us in managing its day-to-day operations and staffing the unit with nurses and mental health counselors. Sarvet said.

Child and adolescent psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners from the Baystate Health department of psychiatry will oversee the treatment of each patient on the unit.

Sarvet acknowledged the units creation with Kindred marks a new phase in the partnership.

All the work with Kindred has been planning work, but this is the actual partnership activity with the actual clinical work, Sarvet said. We are at this moment working collaboratively with Kindred for this particular unit and it has been going very well.

Rob Marsh, Kindreds senior vice president and chief operating officer, said in a statement that Kindred is looking forward to working in partnership with Baystate to address the need for high-quality inpatient psychiatric care for children and adolescents in Western Massachusetts.

The fiscal 2021 state budget signed by Gov. Charlie Baker in December included $10 million to fund creation of inpatient mental health acute care beds, with priority given to beds for children and adolescents in underserved areas of the state. Payments upon completion could be up to $150,000 per new bed, particularly if finished early this year.

The pediatric psychiatric unit at Baystate, which opened Wednesday, April 28, addresses a shortage of such beds in the region that became critical when Providence Hospital closed. Emergency rooms were beginning to see an even greater increase in patients with mental health issues at the time needing admission to a psychiatric unit as the isolation imposed by the coronavirus disease pandemic continued.

The 74-bed hospital on Route 5 in Holyoke is now under new for-profit ownership and named MiraVista Behavioral Health Center. New owners Health Partners New England and GFI Realty opened 36-inpatient psychiatric beds for adults this weekend at MiraVista, but have said, as they seek licensing and staffing for the hospitals various units, that opening a 12-bed pediatric unit would not be possible until this summer at the earliest.

MiraVistas owners have said the state funding approved for the creation of inpatient mental health acute care beds was a key factor in their decision to purchase Providence. Holyoke Medical Center has acknowledged it as key as well in its decision to add 34 new inpatient psychiatric beds to its existing 20 beds by May.

Baystate has been meeting with the Department of Mental Health on the need for inpatient psychiatric services for children and adolescents in the region in opening its temporary unit.

Sarvet is optimistic that the temporary unit when combined with MiraVistas plans for a similar unit will restore to the area the 24 inpatient beds Providence once provided for children and adolescents. He said this number will rise to 36 when the new hospital is finished.

Ultimately, we do need 24 inpatient beds for this community, Sarvet said. The MiraVista plan to include 12 adolescent beds will help. We will get 24 beds when their unit opens. In 2023, we will have 24 beds at the new hospital. Between these beds and MiraVistas we will have 36. I think this is more accurate of what we need in this region.

Sarvet termed recent months as really rough for children and adolescents in need of inpatient psychiatric care and Baystate looking to address that need.

We have had a really rough past couple of months, Sarvet said.

Before kids were returning to in-person school, we were seeing a lot of kids falling apart without the structure that school provides and also the stress of families in the pandemic trickling down to the children as you might expect. This has been the impact of the pandemic on education as well as the impact of the pandemic on families as well as the impact of the closure of Providence. We have seen an extraordinary number of kids waiting in the hospital on non-specialized unit for the psychiatric care they need and deserve.

He added Baystate hopes to have its day program that treats this population of children and adolescents back to onsite operation in the months ahead.

We have had a very large partial-hospitalization program in place that has been very successful in diverting some of the kids who would otherwise be sent to an inpatient hospital, Sarvet said. But that program has been operating remotely because of the social distancing requirements for kids during the pandemic. We are working on getting that program back up for in-person care in the coming months.

The Baystate health network currently has 98 inpatient psychiatric beds in Western Massachusetts for adults, including geriatrics: 28 at Baystate Wing, 28 at Baystate Medical Center; 22 at Baystate Franklin Medical Center in Greenfield and 20 at Baystate Noble Hospital in Westfield.

When the new behavioral health hospital is constructed, the Baystate Medical Center beds will remain, while the beds in Greenfield, Palmer and Westfield would be eliminated. Baystate has said outpatient and partial hospitalization for behavioral health care will still be offered at the Palmer

Baystate announced in July that it had selected Kindred Behavioral Health as its new partner  a former partnership agreement had been dissolved in 2019  to build the new behavioral hospital.

The desired site is the former Holyoke Geriatric Authority property and in December the Holyoke City Council accepted the partners offer for $250,000 for the property as the proposed site of the new hospital on Lower Westfield Road in Holyoke.

We are moving quickly toward the purchase and sale of the property. Sarvet said. We are expecting the site is going to be the site for the hospital and have no reason to doubt that will be the case because it has been moving along.

He is also optimistic that the new behavioral hospital will open in two years.

Every month that goes by we are getting more optimistic, Sarvet said. We are staying on schedule with all the different steps in the development process for the new facility. That has been going smoothly.

He called the opening of the new unit just the beginning of Baystates partnership with Kindred.

The new temporary child/adolescent psychiatric unit is just the beginning of a welcomed partnership with Kindred Behavioral Health that will result in a much-needed expansion of psychiatric services in the region, Sarvet said. We proudly accept our responsibility to address critical gaps in clinical resources to meet the needs of people of all ages who are struggling with psychiatric illness.

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Lewis swears she saw Sims high-school pal Julius Graves  who testified against Sims at his 1999 trial  run from the scene with the murder weapon immediately after she heard the shot. She also said police never followed up on her tip after they told her she was wrong about what she saw.
CHCIOPEE  Elms College has announced an in-person celebration for its 90th commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 15.

Due to COVID-19 safety precautions, the ceremony itself will be limited to graduates only and is not open to the general public. Each graduate will be allowed to have one car containing up to four guests located in specific parking areas separate from where commencement will be held. To keep foot traffic to a minimum, no other guests will be allowed on campus. Social distancing guidelines will be enforced and everyone must wear a mask.

The procession will begin at 9:30 a.m. in the Keating Quadrangle. The program will begin at 10 a.m. The ceremony will be livestreamed on the colleges Facebook page, www.facebook.com/elmscollege, for those watching from their cars or from home.

We are delighted to celebrate the tremendous accomplishments of the Class of 2021 and hold the 90th Commencement ceremony in-person on our campus grounds, said Elms President Harry E. Dumay said.

This years Commencement speaker is Haitian-American novelist and short story writer Edwidge Danticat, MFA. Danticat, who will deliver her address remotely from her home in Miami, has been praised for her spare, emotionally evocative prose and for highlighting the stories of the Haitian diaspora. Her first novel, Breath, Eyes, Memory, which deals with questions of racial, linguistic and gender identity in interconnected ways, was an Oprahs Book Club selection.

Commencement ceremonies will also include the awarding of an honorary degree to Hampden County Sheriff Nicholas Cocchi, a 2013 graduate of the Elms College MBA program.

Additional events are being planned during the week of May 10 to celebrate the Class of 2021. These events will follow appropriate safety guidelines and are not open to the public.
SPRINGFIELD  Every day after work, Luis Ramos would go home to spend some time with his family, and then at 6 p.m. he would head off to visit his friend and colleague retired Judge William Boyle, who suffered from ALS until he died from the disease in 2019.

The Boyle family has become like my family, but Id mostly like to thank my wife Liz. We had a 4 year-old son at the time and she made it possible for me to leave every day at 6 p.m. and be with him until 9:30 or 10 p.m. I couldnt have done it without her, he said.

On Monday, Ramos was given the John M. Greaney Award for his contributions to the Hampden County legal community. The award ceremony was part of the annual Law Day event organized by the Hampden County Bar Association outside the Roderick L. Ireland Courthouse in Springfield.

Ramos was presented with the award by Boyles wife, Rose Boyle, who said she and her family are grateful to Ramos for his compassion and kindness.

Ramos helped William Boyle with his mobility issues both before and after his retirement in 2018. He watched as his friends health deteriorated from effects of the progressive neurodegenerative disease.

Luis began his career here in 1999 and struck up an almost immediate friendship with my husband, who became a judge in August of that same year, Rose Boyle said. Coffee, lunch, going running, hanging out at the Elks. Our kids started referring to their friendship as a bromance, and after all these years Luis, his wife Liz and their son Luca seriously became like an extended part of our family.

Boyle said she knows Ramos is respected by his colleagues as a hard worker, and he displayed that same care and dedication in his friendship with her husband.

We will always be thankful to Luis for everything he did for us during our time of need and we cannot thank him enough, she said. I know I am biased, but there is truly no one more deserving of this award than Luis.

The award is also given to an attorney each year. This years recipient was Springfield District Court Judge John M. Payne, who plans to retire at the end of the month. The award was presented by Regional Administrative Judge Maureen E. Walsh.

She asked the audience to guess who she was referring to when she described a person who is hardworking, intelligent, a team player, loyal, proud of his Irish heritage, stubborn and humorous.

Some guessed Payne, but Walsh said it describes both Payne and Greaney, a retired judge who the award is named for and who was present for the award ceremony.

Both men stand for the same qualities, she said. They are loyal, funny, decent human beings that deliver justice on a daily basis with dignity and professionalism.

Payne said the award is especially significant to him because he admires Greaney so much as a person and a judge. He remembers meeting Greaney when he was just in law school and following his career.

When I became a judge I got to know him, and unlike sometimes in life when you admire somebody from afar and then you meet them that reality is a little less than what you expected, not with John Greaney, Payne said. The person you saw on the bench is the person that he is face to face.

And while I would never claim to posses his brilliance or his intelligence or his knowledge of the law, I hope that I am able to demonstrate the respect and courtesy for the people who came before us in court ... in that way he has been a mentor to me.

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SPRINGFIELD  Even though Tim Brennan would have wanted to step back from the spotlight, colleagues from the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission and Economic Development Council of Western Massachusetts have created an award honoring of the man they remember as the face and voice for the region.

And the organizations are seeking nominees from among the Pioneer Valleys nonprofit organizations that mirror Brennans dedication to community while adapting to changing economic and cultural landscapes.

Nonprofits may be nominated or self-nominate through May 14 at tinyurl.com/brennanaward. The Planning Commission will announce the recipient of the inaugural Tim Brennan Exemplar Award at its annual meeting in June.

In 2022 and in subsequent alternating years, the award will be presented to a for-profit organization that demonstrates those same qualities at the Economic Development Councils Business Innovation Expo of Western Mass.

Tim led by example, said Planning Commission spokesman Patrick Beaudry. His focus for every planning process was that business and nonprofits would step up and be part of the larger effort. So we really want to recognize those folks who are following that example that Tim set.

Brennan was executive director of the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission from 1980 until his retirement in 2019. His major effort over the years was the regional Plan for Progress, a regular 10-year update documenting the achievements, and the needs, of the Pioneer Valley.

He died in March 2020 at 73. There was no public funeral due to COVID-19, and Planning Commission staffers, working remotely, were not able to come together and mark his passing.

In October, Brennan was posthumously recognized with the Association of Metropolitan Planning Organizations national Ronald F. Kirby Lifetime Achievement Award.

Tim Brennan made the improvement of this Valley and its residents quality of life his careers work  forever seeking to use data and long-term vision to guide the nitty gritty daily efforts required to make big positive change, said Richard Sullivan, president and CEO of the Economic Development Council. The Tim Brennan Exemplar Award will recognize leadership in business and the non-profit sector that mirrors Tims dedication to the greater good, regional collaboration, and big picture aspirations for the Pioneer Valley.

For four decades, Tim Brennan sought to bring our Valleys public, private and business sectors together to advance the common good, said U.S. Rep. Richard E. Neal, D-Springfield. And he did just that. He was an exceptional planner with a keen eye on preserving our past for future use. I think its exceptionally fitting that this award recognizing civic leadership in our local businesses and organizations be named in his honor.

As someone who had the good fortune to work with Tim Brennan regionally as his northerly counterpart in Franklin County, as well as on countless statewide efforts to improve the lives of those who call the Valley home, I cannot think of a better tribute to his legacy than the establishment of this honor aimed at recognizing those in the private and non-profit sectors who similarly step up to serve our communities, said Linda Dunlavy, executive director of the Franklin Regional Council of Governments. Simply put, Tim led, Tim listened, Tim centered human outcomes in all that he did for his beloved Valley and Commonwealth.

The award committee consists of Sullivan, Brooks Fitch, Larry Martin, Dianne Doherty and Kimberly H. Robinson, the current executive director of the Planning Commission.

Eligible businesses and nonprofits must operate within Hampden, Hampshire or Franklin counties for more than three years. Selection criteria will include some, or all, of the following:
HADLEY  The town of Hadley has scheduled outdoor ceremonies to honor war dead this coming Memorial Day, Monday, May 31; and has invited the public to attend.

There will be visiting at six graveyards, beginning 11:15 a.m. at Russellville Cemetery, with clergy, government officials, including also school, fire and police departments.

The ceremonies includes displaying colors and firing squad.

This will also occur at the following cemeteries: Plainville, Olde Hadley, Hockanum, Holy Rosary, and North Hadley.

A flag raising at the Legion will conclude the remembrances at 2 p.m.

Please consider yourself invited to attend and honor our vets. The Ceremony will be a small affair, following current Covid-19 state and local guidelines. There will be the raising and lowering of the flag, a gun salute, and words of remembrance, the town said in a statement released on Monday.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture recently announced the extension of the universal free lunch program through the 2021-22 school year. The program was to expire in September. An estimated 12 million youths experience food insecurity. The program, implemented at the beginning of the pandemic, will fill a strong need as millions of families are experiencing financial difficulties and hardship.

The child nutrition waivers cover all students, allowing families and school systems to cut through the red tape of determining who is eligible. For many families school lunches and meal programs are the only real nutritional food source for children. Announcing the extension early will assist school districts to get a jump start on planning and budgeting for the coming year.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said in a statement: This action also increases the reimbursement rate to school meal operators so they can serve healthy foods to our kids. Its a win-win for kids, parents and schools.

Throughout the pandemic, Springfield Public Schools have been aggressive in ensuring kids are getting meals through boxed lunches and curbside pickup. The district has also developed a pilot program to extend availability into the evening hours. By June, Springfield and its partner Sodexo had delivered 1 million meals to families at 17 schools. The YMCAs throughout the region have also engaged in a strong and noble effort to provide meals for those in need.

Through the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources Food Ventures Program, recent grants provided to food access programs will also help fill critical needs. Just Roots of Greenfield received a grant of $98,950 and Wellspring Harvest in Springfield has been allotted $35,000. Throughout the pandemic, the Baker-Polito Administration has awarded $35 million to schools, food banks and nonprofits through the new Food Security Infrastructure Grant program.

The combination of federal, state and local programs are necessary to get families support during the pandemic. The federal governments expanded universal free lunch program will be open to all students, saving municipalities the burden of determining eligibility and forcing local school districts to recoup losses through the federal program.

Feeding children is an unarguably good idea. This is a time where many are in need of government support. The programs enacted are likely to have a significant impact and serve as a model for future government and nonprofit initiatives to serve needy families for challenges experienced down the road.
Being annoyed by government dysfunction is nothing new. Its been around, one might reasonably suggest, for as long as thereve been governments.

But in the past 40 years or so, it became, at least for a segment of the population, something of a religion. Republican Ronald Reagan got elected president in 1980 by running against big government, and then got reelected four years later by continuing to disparage the federal bureaucracy that hed been heading.

So ingrained did this anti-government sentiment become that in his State of the Union address in 1996, President Bill Clinton, a Democrat, famously declared: The era of big government is over.

Fellow Democrat Joe Biden, who attended that address as a senator from Delaware, apparently didnt get the message.

Through his first 100 days as president, Biden has been working to show that the government can still act as a positive influence in the lives of the citizenry.

Thereve so far been three distinct parts of Bidens plan. First came the coronavirus relief effort, meant not only to put our nation on the other side of the virus, but also to get the economy rolling once again. That plan became law and has been showing signs of working exactly as intended.

The next two parts -- the American Jobs Plan and the American Families Plan -- are efforts to rebuild infrastructure, broadly construed, and to help with education and childcare. While these remain only proposals and may well be revised, perhaps even significantly, both are broadly popular plans that will leverage the power of the federal government to benefit the people.

Imagine that.

Though congressional Republicans and right-wing media outfits have been endeavoring to portray Biden as some sort of wild-eyed socialist who is trying to control each aspect of everyones life, those arguments havent been sticking. Partly because they are so provably false, and also because the Biden of today is much like the Biden that weve all known so well for so long. Hes an old-school liberal who believes that government can do good and do right by the people.

Instead of pushing Medicare for all, for example, he wants to expand the benefits offered by the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, the 2010 health-care law colloquially known as Obamacare.

Take what works and improve upon it, making government work for the people.
A host of Massachusetts restaurants and service businesses can now apply for up to $10 million in COVID-19 relief to help cover losses brought on by the pandemic, Rep. Ayanna Pressleys office announced Monday.

The $28.6 billion Restaurant Revitalization Fund is part of President Joe Bidens $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan. Pressley and the Massachusetts delegation had pressed for substantial relief to restaurants hit hard by the pandemic; lawmakers previously sought about $120 billion through the RESTAURANTS Act last year. But the funding in the latest COVID-19 relief package will still bolster impacted businesses just as increased vaccinations and lower case counts have prompted state officials to relax guidelines on dining, social distancing and masks.

Our restaurants are the backbones of our local economies and among the hardest hit by this public health and economic crisis  and that is especially true for restaurants here in the Massachusetts 7th, Pressley said in a statement. She noted the fund will provide much-needed relief to local restaurants owned by women, Black, brown, immigrant and other historically underrepresented communities, helping businesses get back on track and set us on a path to an equitable recovery.

About 93% of restaurant staff were laid off or furloughed last spring  more than 211,000 workers in Massachusetts, according to the National Restaurant Association. The industry in Massachusetts generates about $19 billion in annual sales. Stephen Clark, vice president of government affairs for the Massachusetts Restaurant Association, told MassLive earlier this year that sales were likely down between 20% and 25% in 2020.

The fund offers restaurants and other eligible businesses up to $10 million to help cover pandemic-related losses. The money does not need to be paid back, so long as the funds go toward eligible uses by March 11, 2023. During the first three weeks of the application process, restaurants owned by women, veterans, or socially and economically disadvantaged individuals will receive priority.

The application portal can be found at the Small Business Administration website, https://restaurants.sba.gov/requests/borrower/login/, where funding guides and a sample application are also available. Businesses that work with Square or Toast point of sale providers do not need to register on the portal in advance.

According to a program guide dated April 28, the following businesses are eligible to apply:

Restaurants

Food stands, food trucks, food carts

Caterers

Bars, saloons, lounges, taverns

Snack and nonalcoholic beverage bars

Bakeries (onsite sales to the public comprise at least 33% of gross receipts)

Brewpubs, tasting rooms, taprooms (onsite sales to the public comprise at least 33% of gross receipts)

Breweries and/or microbreweries (onsite sales to the public comprise at least 33% of gross receipts)

Wineries and distilleries (onsite sales to the public comprise at least 33% of gross receipts)

Inns (onsite sales of food and beverage to the public comprise at least 33% of gross receipts)

Licensed facilities or premises of a beverage alcohol producer where the public may taste, sample, or purchase products.

The $26 billion may go fast, Clark warned in February.

Lawmakers said the latest effort to bolster the restaurant industry  which generated $854 billion in sales in 2019  can likely be replenished if funds deplete, similar to how Congress and former President Donald Trump injected more cash into the small-business Paycheck Protection Program.

Clark previously cited a food service industry report, prepared by Aaron Allen & Associates as the pandemic heightened last year, showing that the $854 billion in nationwide sales in 2019 was more than hotels, airline passenger travel, public transport, professional sports, cruise lines, taxis and ride sharing, and cinemas  combined.

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Sherry Hassler, 55, of Lindsay, died Sunday, June 6, in Oklahoma City. The family will welcome friends at Brumley-Mills Funeral Home in Hartshorne for viewing and visitation on Thursday from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. Memorial services will be held on Friday, June 11, at 10:00 a.m. at Brumley-Mills F
Atlanta, GA (30303)

Today

Cloudy skies this morning followed by scattered showers and thunderstorms during the afternoon. High 87F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 60%..

Tonight

Showers early, then cloudy overnight. Low around 70F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 30%.
C.D. alleges that he was 12 years old when he met Spacey in 1981. At the time, Spacey was C.D.s acting teacher in Westchester. Spacey initiated a sexual relationship with C.D. two years later after they crossed paths in New York City, according to the suit. C.D. fled Spaceys abuse after the actor attempted a sexual act that the teen resisted, the lawsuit alleges.
Atlanta, GA (30342)

Today

Cloudy early with scattered thunderstorms developing this afternoon. High near 85F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 60%..

Tonight

Showers this evening becoming less numerous overnight. Low 69F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%.
All of us are entitle to live in a healthy and safe environment [and] we have just let our public housing crumble and deteriorate in a way that is depriving people of that right.
The NYPD was called, and four officers  initially looking wary  responded in two waves. One of the later-arriving cops confidently rolled up his sleeves, grabbed the sneaky snake, coiled him up and put him in a bag, Berger said.
She asked him to open the ATM for her, Ali said, referring to his 28-year-old colleague. But he wouldnt do it so she broke the TV. Then, she took the mop to clean the floor and she threw it in his face. And he locked the door and he called the police.
Meadville, PA (16335)

Today

Rain showers this morning with numerous thunderstorms developing during the afternoon hours. High 81F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms early, then partly cloudy after midnight. Low 66F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%.
With the rising numbers of COVID cases in the country, it feels like theres no end to people's miseries.

People are dying because theres a shortage of oxygen in hospitals and the visuals are terrifying. And this has led to countless deaths, as social media is full of stories of such cases.

 Reuters

Sutapa Sikdar, the wife of late actor Irrfan Khan, expressed deep sorrow over the death of a relative named Sameer Banerjee who passed away due to COVID-19 and called out authorities over shortage of ICU beds in the national capital.



The novel pandemic has been claiming lives rapidly in the second wave as well and the lack of facilities proves that both central and most state governments have been failing terribly.

Sikdar took to Facebook to pen down the emotional turmoil she underwent after her friend's death. She mentioned that it wasn't an obituary and urged people to not forget the pain caused by the second wave of the novel Coronavirus.

Her post read as #notanobituary #dontforget I posted day before for help for my relative Sameer Banerjee. Today he left us. We couldn't set up an ICU at home in Delhi the capital of India. And we couldnt get a bed in the hospital. My gratitude to all the COVID-91 warriors who helped. I will never forget you all, my blessings to you all till I live, I will never forget Sameerdas smile. I will cherish my adolescent memories with him. I will never forget that I couldnt get a bed in ICU for him because he was not Chota Rajan. He was an honest man. I will not forget this mayhem in Delhi. You dont forget too that Banerjees, Sheikhs, Das Adjanias all have to go and they could have stayed with us all a bit longer if we would have concentrated as a country more on hospital oxygen plants than Hindu festivals and Muslim festivals. #delhigovt #modi #bettertobeachotarajan #dontforget."

#notanobituary#don'forget I posted day before for help for my relative Sameer Banerjee. Today he left us .We couldnt... Posted by Sutapa Sikdar on Sunday, 2 May 2021

For those who arent aware, Chhota Rajan had tested positive for COVID-19 in April and was admitted to the New Delhi-based All India Institute of Medical Services (AIIMS).

Its sad that people have to go so much just for the bare minimum and all this helplessness is making people lose hope completely because theres no immediate relief in near sight.

 Reuters

Meanwhile, Sikdar has been using her social media account to seek medical help for many people in her circle.



On Monday, India reported 3.68 lakh fresh cases and 3,417 deaths. On the other hand, Delhi on Sunday reported 20,394 new cases and 407 fatalities.

MensXP prays for everyone who has been dealing with personal losses.
India's present-day situation due to the deadly second wave of COVID has left us all benumbed.



 Reuters

With an acute shortage of beds and oxygen cylinders, the country's current situation seems to be deteriorating each day. But, thanks to the citizens and their donations along with international help, there seems to be a glimmer of hope.



 Reuters

We also have a few Bollywood celebrities who are coming forth and doing their bit to fight the virus.



Now that India has started installing new oxygen plants, turns out, Kangana Ranaut isn't convinced with the whole idea.

Very recently, the actress yet again took to Twitter to share her two bits on the matter.

"Everybody is building more and more oxygen plants, getting tons and tons of oxygen cylinders, how are we compensating for all the oxygen that we are forcefully drawing from the environment? It seems we learnt nothing from our mistakes and catastrophes they cause #PlantTrees," her Tweet read.

Everybody is building more and more oxygen plants, getting tons and tons of oxygen cylinders, how are we compensating for all the oxygen that we are forcefully drawing from the environment? It seems we learnt nothing from our mistakes and catastrophes they cause #PlantTrees  Kangana Ranaut (@KanganaTeam) May 3, 2021

In the thread, she also mentioned if someone takes oxygen, the person should also give it back to the environment.

She further added, "Along with announcing more and more oxygen for humans, governments must announce relief for nature also, people who are using this oxygen should also pledge to work on improving the air quality, for how long we going to be miserable pests only taking never giving back to nature?"

Remember any other life if disappears from earth even microbes or insects it will affect fertility of soil and Mother Earths health she will miss them but if humans disappear Earth will only and only flourish,if you arent her lover or child you are just unnecessary #PlantTrees  Kangana Ranaut (@KanganaTeam) May 3, 2021

To add more to the matter, Kangana finally concluded by saying, "Remember any other life if disappears from earth even microbes or insects it will affect fertility of soil and Mother Earths health she will miss them but if humans disappear Earth will only and only flourish, if you arent her lover or child you are just unnecessary #PlantTrees

Recently, even the Delhi High Court had said that the hospitals should take into consideration the shortage of oxygen and instead, set up plants, as they are an essential part and it would be irresponsible to not have them.

As soon as Kangana tweeted on this matter, the people on Twitter couldn't hold back from commenting on her suggestions:

You have the courage to blame everyone for oxygen shortage but not 2 leaders.  Girish Arora (@AroraGirish) May 3, 2021

Iss Pandemic me Aapke controversial tweets padh-kar we are compensating for all the oxygen.



Agar kisi ki help nhi Kar sakte toh Thode din toh shaanti se baith jao Yar.   #RR (@nawaabshahab) May 3, 2021

Don't worry Ma'am My Great Grandfather has started taking oxygen from only one Nostril to save oxygen. Also on the suggestion of yogi ji he is trying to extract oxygen from Nitrogen that is being released from his body.  Jitesh Rochlani (@JRism9) May 3, 2021

She is very cruel. At this time also she is giving pravachan and insulting humans.



Why forcing people to plant trees, why not this responsibility of planting bulk trees be taken by govt.  READ MY BIO (INC) (@khr6655) May 3, 2021

Need of the hour women people are dying right left and center, are you not able to see?. Now, about trees,were you sleeping earlier? Laga leti pahle, sirf bolna he ata hai tere ko.  Deep Sandhu (@DeepSan05970557) May 3, 2021

Aaj EnvironMENTAL scientist bani hai  Mr.Fixit (@yippeekiyay_dk) May 3, 2021

Pehle to aap kisi ache psychiatrist se treatment lijiye. Tab tak zeher felana band kar dijiye.  Balaram Sahu (@blrmsahu6) May 3, 2021

Why are people in himachal dying due to dearth of oxygen? U also need to build more and more hospitals to save your people. If u went to school, u would have known the difference.  Ramneek (@MannRamneek) May 3, 2021

For people who will come and start giving gyan to her that there is no connection btn medical oxygen and oxygen present in environment... calm down it is extracted from environment only.. #PlantTrees pic.twitter.com/fD0mMAaJiH  Rave$rant (@Raverant3) May 3, 2021
On Saturday, the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath urged IIT Kanpur and various other tech institutions in the country to look for ways to convert Nitrogen into Oxygen.

From his official Twitter handle, the UP CM wrote:

 Twitter - CM Office, GoUP

The CM on Saturday said, the government should explore all possibilities of raising oxygen supply and look for alternatives. Officials should get in touch with experts from IIT Kanpur and other technical institutes and look at the possibility of converting nitrogen to oxygen, said a government spokesperson.



Heres how most people reacted to the way out suggested by the Bharatiya Janata Party member on social media:

Tony Stark of India.



Converting Nitrogen to Oxygen.



Full chemistry destroyed in Seconds. pic.twitter.com/vO7fiXWdeV  Adnan Siddiqui AAP (@Adnan_Siddiqui_) May 1, 2021

Big breaking



From today nitrogen will be renamed as oxygen



No need of scientists for working on conversion of nitrogen to oxygen  professor (@Profess78167383) May 2, 2021

Why stop at nitrogen? Why not convert all elements into oxygen?!



What an embarrassment, this uneducated lot! https://t.co/BrA6kJTahk  Neelima Vallangi (@NVallangi) May 2, 2021

CM Adityanath wants to explore the possibility of converting nitrogen to oxygen.



It's so simple, just give two bags of rice to nitrogen & it'll convert with the whole periodic table.  Yanger Longkumer (@YangerINC) May 2, 2021

Although, to be fair to the UP Chief Minister, IIT Bombay recently tried to create gaseous oxygen by using the existing Nitrogen Plant setup. According to Free Press Journal, these nitrogen plants consume atmospheric air as raw material. If IIT Bombays pilot project is successful, it may have the potential to convert these plants into oxygen generators and ensure a constant supply during the on-going COVID-19 crisis in the country.

Just a day after the BJP ministers quick fix advice, Bollywood actor Kangana Ranaut presented the world with yet another problem, this time about the issue of forcefully taking oxygen from the environment to supply to the struggling people of the country.

In a thread of tweets, the actor wrote:

"Everybody is building more and more oxygen plants, getting tons and tons of oxygen cylinders, how are we compensating for all the oxygen that we are forcefully drawing from the environment? It seems we learnt nothing from our mistakes and catastrophes they cause #PlantTrees."

Everybody is building more and more oxygen plants, getting tons and tons of oxygen cylinders, how are we compensating for all the oxygen that we are forcefully drawing from the environment? It seems we learnt nothing from our mistakes and catastrophes they cause #PlantTrees  Kangana Ranaut (@KanganaTeam) May 3, 2021

"Along with announcing more and more oxygen for humans, governments must announce relief for nature also, people who are using this oxygen should also pledge to work on improving the air quality, for how long we going to be miserable pests only taking never giving back to nature?"

Along with announcing more and more oxygen for humans, governments must announce relief for nature also, people who are using this oxygen should also pledge to work on improving the air quality, for how long we going to be miserable pests only taking never giving back to nature?  Kangana Ranaut (@KanganaTeam) May 3, 2021

"Remember any other life if disappears from earth even microbes or insects it will affect fertility of soil and Mother Earths health she will miss them but if humans disappear Earth will only and only flourish, if you arent her lover or child you are just unnecessary #PlantTrees
Apple has been at the forefront when it comes to adding health features to the Apple Watch that end up saving lives. The smartwatch is already capable of taking Electrocardiograph (ECG) readings, blood oxygen (SpO2) readings and also has a fall-detection feature. All of these features on the Apple Watch have been credited for saving numerous lives and it seems like Apple is looking to add even more life-saving features.

 MensXP_Akshay Bhalla

According to a recent report by British outlet The Telegraph, a British start-up called Rockley Photonics is looking to supply new types of sensors to Apple. These sensors could be used in devices that can detect blood glucose levels, alcohol levels and take blood pressure readings.



The British start-up has shown in listed documents as Apple being a major contributor towards its revenues. The company primarily focuses on developing sensors that track blood glucose, blood pressure, and blood alcohol levels. Its not a long shot to assume that these features could make their way to the Apple Watch as soon as 2022.

Wearables having the ability to track blood sugar or blood pressure isnt news as previous leaks have suggested that even Samsung is working on a smartwatch with similar capabilities. The South Korean giant developed a system to monitor blood sugar levels using the Rama Spectroscopy method. This process uses lasers to determine the chemical composition of a user.

 MensXP_Akshay Bhalla

Apple is said to be working on a patent application for components that could be used to monitor glucose levels through the skin. Having said that, this method could put the accuracy of the feature in question until it has been tested thoroughly. Having said that, at CES 2021, a Japanese Company, Quantum Operations did showcase a wearable prototype that uses the Rama Spectroscopy method to determine blood sugar readings. The device was able to give a result in 20 seconds and we could expect something similar from Samsungs next Galaxy Watch if the company decides to implement the feature.



Source: The Telegraph
Meridian, MS (39302)

Today

Cloudy this morning with thunderstorms developing this afternoon. High 88F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 60%..

Tonight

Considerable cloudiness. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 71F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph.
I think this is an area that we definitely should look at again because hate crimes are such a profound challenge, de Blasio said. But the important thing for us to do right now is to work within the law as intensely and effectively as possible to protect people.
Since the launch of the price on February 26 of this year, the market has been liquid, with Fastmarkets reporting a raft of deals for steel billet imported into China.Most of the imports this year have been from Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) region, produced by mills in Vietnam, Indonesia or Malaysia.Material originating from locations such as Russia and China had been incurring an import tax of 2% in China, but the tax was removed effective Saturday May 1,China's Ministry of Finance announced on April 27 that there will no longer be import taxes for pig iron, crude steel, recycled steel raw materials, semi-finished steel, ferro-chrome and other products.Fastmarkets launched a consultation last month about limiting its data points for the price MB-STE-0890 Steel billet, import, cfr China to Asean-only material [LINK] but in light of the recent tax changes and conversations with market participants, this will not take place.The specifications for the assessment will remain as follows:Quality: 120x120mm to 150x150mm, length 12m, 3sp gradeQuantity: 5,000-50,000 tonnesLocation: cfr eastern China ports (normalized for other mainland Chinese sea ports)Timing: 4-8 weeksUnit: $ per tonnePayment terms: Letter of credit on sightPublication: Weekly, Friday, 5-6pm Shanghai timeIf you would like to provide price information by becoming a data submitter to Fastmarkets steel billet pricing or provide feedback on this pricing notice, please contact Jessica Zong or Lee Allen by email at: pricing@fastmarkets.com . Please add the subject heading FAO: Jessica Zong/Lee Allen, re: China steel billet price.To see all of Fastmarkets pricing methodology and specification documents, go to https://www.fastmarkets.com/about-us/methodology
Six Farmer School faculty were honored for their accomplishments inside and outside of the classroom over the past school year.

Dr. Tim Holcomb, Farmer School Endres Associate Professor Fellow, Chair of the Department of Entrepreneurship, and Director of the John W. Altman Institute for Entrepreneurship, is this years recipient of the Richard K. Smucker Teaching Excellence Award as the Outstanding Professor. Tim earned his PhD at Texas A&M University. Tim draws from decades of experience in strategy consulting, startups, and international business in his teaching.

Tims teaching philosophy connects entrepreneurship and management theory, methodology, and process with practice-based, experiential learning pedagogy that require students to actively apply what they learn in the classroom to solve real-world problems. His teaching focuses engaging students in critical thinking, treating students with fairness and respect, and establishing a rigorous, empowering, and enjoyable learning environment.

Dr. Jonathan Pyzoha, the PricewaterhouseCoopers Endowed Assistant Professor in Accountancy, is this years recipient of the Richard K. Smucker Teaching Excellence Award as the Outstanding Junior Professor. Jonathan earned his PhD at Virginia Tech. He is a Miami University alum, having earned his Bachelors and Masters degrees in Accountancy from the FSB.

Jonathan describes his teaching philosophy as being centered based on the goals of fostering learning by innovating my courses to match the evolving and dynamic accounting field, motivating active interaction in the classroom, and inspiring students to think critically on their way to successfully becoming professional accountants. He encourages students to not just memorize, but to logically combine and analyze foundational accounting and ethical concepts within more complex and subjective scenarios via case studies.

Jonathan received the Miami University Student Recognition of Teaching Excellence Award in 2020.

Karen Meyers, a Visiting Assistant Professor in Business Legal Studies and First-Year Integrated Core, is this years recipient of the Richard K. Smucker Teaching Excellence Award as the Outstanding Teaching/Clinical Professor or Lecturer/Clinical Lecturer. Karen earned her MBA and Masters in Education degrees at Xavier University, and earned her JD degree from the Salmon P. Chase College of Law at Northern Kentucky University.

Karen describes her teaching philosophy as focusing on respect, inclusion, academic integrity, high standards, fairness, enthusiasm, and unbridled commitment to students. Her students greatly appreciate her extensive legal experience and her incorporation of examples and current events. Karen received the Professional of the Year Award by the Salmon P. Chase College of Law in 2015.

Dr. Thomas Boulton, the Lindmor Professor of Finance, is this years recipient of the Senior Faculty Award for Research Excellence. He joined the FSB faculty in 2007. His research stream includes investigations of country-level factors that affect IPO outcomes; short-selling practices; and dark pools in equity markets, with some studies touching on more than one of these themes. Since receiving his doctoral degree from the University of Pittsburgh, he has published 25 research projects, book chapters, and case studies, including several in the most prestigious finance and accounting journals. Professor Boulton has presented his research at numerous peer-reviewed conferences and university workshops, including at a Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta conference, and has served as a reviewer for dozens of journals across different fields.

Dr. Lee Biggerstaff, the ARMCO Alumni Assistant Professor, is this years recipient of the James Robeson Junior Faculty Award for Research Excellence. Professor Biggerstaff joined FSB in 2014 after completing his doctoral degree at the University of Tennessee. His research uses an agency theory lens to investigate relationships between top management team effort and ethics and firm outcomes such as financial reporting quality, innovation, and stock price performance. Several of Professor Biggerstaffs research studies have been published in the most selective finance and accounting journals, an impressive accomplishment for a junior scholar. Professor Biggerstaffs research has been presented at several scholarly conferences, and he was interviewed in an episode of Malcolm Gladwells Revisionist History podcast.

Dr. Terri Barr, Professor of Marketing, is the recipient of this years FSB Faculty Award for Service Excellence. Terri earned her PhD from the University of Cincinnati. Throughout her career, Terri has been engaged in a variety of service roles, often leading difficult committees and processes. At the divisional and department level, she currently chairs the undergraduate studies committee, and has previously chaired the Teaching and Pedagogy Committee for the FSB. In addition, she has served on the FSB Governance and Gender Equity and Inclusion committees.

At the university level, Terri has been active for many years on the University Senate, serving as Chair, and member of the executive committee. Other university service includes the steering committee for the Presidents Strategic Planning committee and being the FSB representative on the Academic Program Evaluation and Improvement Process. Terris dedication to service and improving the processes at the division and university have helped Miami and the FSB address difficult topics and issues, helping to move Miami forward.

Farmer School dean Jenny Darroch noted, This year, perhaps more than any other, selecting these award-winners was a difficult task. Our faculty refused to allow Covid-induced challenges to diminish the Farmer School student experience, and stepped up to serve the school, university and community. My heartfelt thanks and congratulations to the six chosen awardees.
MIOSHA presents state's highest safety and health award to Holly Construction Company

MIOSHA presents state's highest safety and health award to Holly Construction Company

April 30, 2021

Media Contact: Erica Quealy, 517-582-2961

Holly Construction employee using virtual reality goggles for training program

Holly Construction Company, in Melvindale, MI, received the Michigan Voluntary Protection Program (MVPP) Star Award from the Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration (MIOSHA) for workplace safety and health excellence.

"Holly Construction Company's involvement in the STAR Program and the trust and cooperation upon which it is based, demonstrates their outstanding safety and health commitment to their employees," MIOSHA Director Barton Pickelman said.

Two best practices that demonstrate this company's exemplary safety and health management system are:

Virtual Reality Training Modules: The virtual reality training is used to educate employees on the hazards associated with certain unique job tasks. Holly Construction Company is creating VR training modules that are based on safety best practices. The hands-on training modules feature a virtual petroleum refinery and a depiction of various work tasks. Each module is created by the Holly Construction Director of Safety with knowledge in the job task(s) and the potential safety hazards. Our team of highly experienced employees also provide invaluable input for the training module content. The virtual trainings are followed by the review of a manual, that a new employee or an employee unfamiliar with the job task(s),can refer to, for information on the featured work process and the key safety aspects.

Risk Assessment Matrix (RAM): The RAM process is a proactive tool used to assess risks that are more complex than most before the work begins. The RAM process ensures that the appropriate safety controls are identified and implemented. Management facilitates the process, which involves a pre-work meeting with the work crew to identify and discuss anticipated hazards.

"Being an MVPP company means that we make safety the top priority on all our jobs," said Brian Gelaude, Carpenter Foreman at Holly Construction Company. "All Holly employees look out for one another so we can all go home safe at the end of the day to our families. Being an MVPP company should be the goal of all contractors in the state to promote the safety and wellbeing of their employees."

MIOSHA established the MVPP program in 1996 to recognize employers with exemplary safety and health management systems that go above MIOSHA requirements. The MVPP program is open to all Michigan employers. To be eligible for the award, an applicant must have injury and illness incidence rates for each of the last three years below the industry average.

Learn more about the MVPP program at michigan.gov/MVPP

About Holly Construction

Holly Construction has been in operation for 47 years and is based out of a 30,000 square foot R-Stamp Certified fabrication shop in Melvindale, MI.

The Holly Construction Company (HCC) operations are those of a resident (nested) contractor at the Marathon Petroleum Detroit Refinery. Managing ten (10) self-performing union trades, Holly provides mechanical, civil, electrical, rigging, and tank construction and maintenance services to the petrochemical, power, manufacturing, aviation, storage, gas, and wastewater industries. Please visit hollyconst.com for additional information.
Surveillance images released by the NYPD show the slasher across the street from the crime scene with a knife in his hand moments before the assault. He was last seen heading north on Jerome Ave.
AG Nessel Reissues Consumer Alert as Scammers Target Grieving Survivors

AG Nessel Reissues Consumer Alert as Scammers Target Grieving Survivors

Lynsey Mukomel 517-599-2746 Attorney General

May 3, 2021

LANSING - Michigan Attorney General Nessel is warning Michiganders to beware of scammers reaching out to loved ones of COVID-19 victims offering to register them for funeral assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). According to a fraud alert from FEMA, the agency does not contact people before they register for assistance.

FEMA is offering funds to help pay for funeral expenses that people have paid since January 20, 2020 for loved ones who died of COVID-19. The fraudsters are targeting potential applicants and offering to register them for the FEMA funeral assistance program in an effort to steal personal data.

As a result, the Attorney General's office reissued a consumer alert on government imposter scams.

"I'll say it again: bad actors will do whatever it takes to make a quick buck or steal your personal information and that includes taking advantage of your grief," Nessel said. "FEMA will not contact you until you have called their agency or applied for assistance. Anyone who contacts you unsolicited and claims to be a government employee or from FEMA is a scammer."

Anyone who receives a phone call they suspect to be a scam should avoid giving out personal information and hang up immediately.

Avoid being scammed:

FEMA will not contact you until you have called FEMA or have applied for assistance.

The government won't ask you to pay anything to get this financial help.

The government won't call, text, email, or contact you on social media and ask for your social security, bank account, or credit card number.

Don't give your own or your deceased loved one's personal or financial information to anyone who contacts you out of the blue.

If you receive a suspicious call from someone claiming to be from FEMA, hang up and report it to the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 or the National Center for Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721.

For questions about FEMA's funeral assistance program or to apply, call 844-684-6333 or visit their Frequently Asked Questions page online.

As always, Your connection to consumer protection is just a click or phone call away. Consumer complaints can be filed online at the Attorney General's website, or by calling 877-765-8388.
CASS CITY  Cass City officials tackled one of the first steps in renovating the communitys aging wastewater treatment plant by hiring an engineering and construction firm during a recent village council meeting.

Spicer Engineering, Johnson Controls, Fleis and Vanderbrink, and Fishbeck-Townely Engineering responded to the village's request for qualifications.

The council approved Fishbecks proposal and professional service agreement at a cost of $61,400.

To fund that, $22,000 will come from the villages sewer fund balance and $40,000 from a reserve expense account.

There was one area that Fishbeck-Townleys RFQ exceeded," Village Manager Debbie Powell noted in her written report to the council. "That was their willingness to carry the engineering and design costs fully or partially on their books. This would eliminate the need for the village to apply for a bond anticipation note for the project.

A BAN is a bond funneled through the U.S. Department of Agriculture to fund the engineering costs before a project begins.

Then, the village would bond again for the entire project and pay off the BAN.

Every time you bond, there are costs and fees," Powell said. "By eliminating the need for the BAN, the village will save thousands of dollars. Therefore, Fishbeck was able to score higher than those firms who did not help with the engineering and design cost."

One important criterion for the (villages request for proposals) was the ability to assist with applying for financial assistance through various federal, state and grant programs," Powell said. "Fishbeck has departments allocated for applying for funding to assist with their projects, which was another plus.

Powell, who was not able to attend the meeting, provided a detailed report on the project to the council.

In addition, Fishbeck will subcontract with Townley Engineering on the project, making a single point of contact rather than working with two companies.

Doing a replacement of the wastewater plant would be much more expensive, so were just doing a rebuild of the system, as it is more cost effective, Village President Dan Delamarter said, adding that hiring Fishbeck is only the first step in the process.

Fishbeck will do a study of the plant to decide the best route to go," Cass Cit Director of Public Utilities Dennis McCabe said. "It will be about eight months of review before the design process starts."

Our (existing plant) is 41 years old," he added. "It needs a lot of upgrades because it is hard to find replacement parts.

Fishbecks services include architecture, engineering, scientific and environmental. The firms references include local wastewater projects in the city of Sandusky, city of Bad Axe, city of Ludington, city of Mackinac Island and the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe.
MERIDEN  A former Meriden resident pleaded guilty last week to a federal gun possession charge, federal prosecutors said.

Jonathan Colon, 29, pleaded guilty Friday in Bridgeport federal court before Judge Stefan R. Underhill to possession of a firearm by a felon.

Colon has a criminal history including a state felony conviction for a robbery offense. Federal law prohibits him from possessing a gun or ammunition because of that prior conviction.

He was arrested at a Groton hotel on March 5, 2018, and was found in possession of a .45-caliber semiautomatic handgun, prosecutors said.

Underhill scheduled sentencing for Aug. 10. At that time, Colon faces a maximum term of 10 years in prison. He was released pending sentencing.
NEW HAVEN  With previous owners having failed to develop the former site of the Lehman Bros. printing company, East Rock resident David Budries said in his mind 191 Foster St. seems almost cursed.

Despite a three-year-old proposal to construct condominiums on the lot, antsy neighbors said they have yet to see construction begin. Meanwhile, the property manager says development will go forward, with site work slated for this summer, citing reasons for the delay, including clean up at the site and design work.

The fenced-in lot is sandwiched between Foster and Nicoll streets, covered mostly by grass and dirt. It has one remaining structure standing, an abandoned concrete building with boarded-up doors and windows.

Ocean Management, run by Shmuel Aizenberg, purchased the land in 2017. The purchase was made by an affiliated holding company called 191 Foster Street NH LLC, city land records and the state business search indicate.

The City Plan Commission in 2018 signed off on a proposal to construct six townhouses and 24 two-bedroom condominiums on the lot, per the site plan review.

That fall saw the demolition of several buildings on the site, according to time-stamped photos provided by Eugene DeCristofaro, who owns an adjacent property.

An extensive site cleanup also was done, but DeCristofaro said he has not seen any extensive work done on the site in more than a year. Budries, chairman of the East Rock Community Management Team, said the same, as did Eva Geertz, whose Nicoll Street home abuts the site.

Ocean Management also has purchased other properties in the city.

The real estate giant purchased seven multifamily homes early this year, taking out a $10 million mortgage around the same time. Holding companies associated with the conglomerate also bought 14 properties for a sum of $6.7 million in 2019, the New Haven Independent reported.

For Geertz, who can see the Foster Street lot from her backyard, the delay,coupled with East Rocks lucrative housing market, the situation puzzles her.

. This ones a mystery.

DeCristofaro said the uncertainty around construction has been a concern for his tenants.

My new tenants asked about that. Is there going to be construction, you know, for half a year? And we kind of should know, he said. Theres been no communication. Do we have to expect construction for the summer? Should we put up fences?

Meghan Friedmann / Hearst Connecticut Media

According to Melissa Saint, who manages the site via her business Saint Project Management, the developer aims to submit a building permit application in the next month and begin grading the site over the summer.

The goal is to have the property built by October 2022, she said.

As for the delay, Saint said environmental cleanup took longer than anticipated  she confirmed the site was contaminated with asbestos  and was not completed until last spring. Since then, we were doing construction design with the architect, she said.

I completely understand their frustration, Saint said of neighbors concerns. We are moving forward and there has definitely been a little delay.

Concern about what is happening on Foster Street has spread to City Hall.

The City is very concerned about the extended delay and current condition of the site, Michael Piscitelli, New Havens economic development administrator, wrote in an email to the Register.

Budries, who lives less than a block away on Foster Street, said that when plans for the condos were presented, it looked like it was going to be the right kind of thing, he said.

Folks were encouraged when the new owners went forward with the demolition and site cleanup, he said, but as the project stalled the lot went back to nature.

I think the biggest concern people have now is that it is still there..., Budries said. It seems like a cursed property in that I believe there have been ... buyers and sellers that were not able to complete their plans.

Meghan Friedmann / Hearst Connecticut Media

The property has changed owners three times since Lehman Bros. went out of business in 2008, according to city property records.

Its an eyesore, Alder Anna Festa, who represents the neighborhood, said of the Foster Street property.

Festa has received complaints from residents whose backyards abut the lot, she said, adding that the neighborhood wants answers about what is going on there.

When the developers presented the plans, she said, no one gave them a hard time, so now out of respect for the residents they should show good faith and do something.

meghan.friedmann@hearstmediact.com
Tara ONeill / Hearst Connecticut Media file

NEW HAVEN  Police identified the city man who was killed after being hit by a car while walking across Whalley Avenue Friday morning.

Lionel Boyd was struck by a Ford Taurus while crossing Whalley at its intersection with Ramsdell Street at approximately 5:39 a.m. Friday, Officer Scott Shumway said in an email.
BRIDGEPORT  For an automobile mechanic to stay successful, they need a steady supply of people who put wear-and-tear on vehicles and can afford the upkeep.

So when the COVID-19 pandemic shut down Connecticut for several weeks last year, resulting in nearly empty roadways and leaving many jobless for even longer, JC Auto Sales and Service on Noble Avenue lost plenty of customers.

A lot of people dont have any money, owner Juan Fernandez said. They need money to pay bills, rent, stuff like that. Sometimes people would rather put food on the table than fix their cars.

3 1 of 3 Ned Gerard / Hearst Connecticut Media Show More Show Less 2 of 3 Ned Gerard / Hearst Connecticut Media Show More Show Less 3 of 3





SEARCH OUR DATABASE: These are the Bridgeport businesses that received a share of $1 million in COVID relief

JC is among 176 Bridgeport businesses that over the winter applied for a share of $1 million in federal pandemic relief funds which Mayor Joe Ganims administration announced a year ago, but, due to delays, only recently made available.

The checks going out over the coming weeks range from $5,000 to $15,000. Fernandez qualified for $7,000.

Its important to us to get this money because that way we can keep afloat, Fernandez said.

A city generated spreadsheet of all the entities that applied  32 were rejected  reads like a local business directory. Besides automotive services, there are restaurants and bars, coffee shops, hairstylists, construction companies, plumbers, welders, electricians, landscapers, movers, cleaners, fitness instructors, masseuses, doctors, veterinarians, lawyers and insurance salespeople.

Some are modest, hole-in-the-wall operations, like Shandals Vegetarian Cafe on Capitol Avenue, Four Star Movers on Connecticut Avenue and H&H Shellfish on Seaview Avenue.

Shayenne Matthew closed Shandals for three months last year. While sales are up, Matthew can still really use the $5,000 he will receive from the city. Rent and back bills, theyre eating me up right now, he said.

Four Stars owner, Willie Quarles, said being an independent mover has always been challenging, and COVID made it harder. He qualified for $5,000.

Its been a struggle, Quarles said of the pandemic business climate. But I wont give up.

Paul Henriques of H&H Shellfish is expecting one of the rarer double-digit relief amounts  $11,500.

Its a little something compared to what we lost and are still losing, Henriques said. Restaurants closed. Companies I sell to ship a lot of stuff to California, Florida, Texas. A lot of those places were closed, too.

Some aid recipients names are well known. For example, Testos catering on Madison Avenue, which qualified for $12,400, was founded by veteran Democratic Town Chairman Mario Testa.

Testa did not return a request for comment.

Magilla, a real estate development firm at 520 Success Ave. whose principal, according to government and court records, is reputed mobster Gus Gurcio, is scheduled to receive $5,500. Magillas run-down address is owned by another business linked to Curcio and home to 21 different entities whose financial accounts were closed suddenly late last summer by Citizens and United banks, prompting Curcio to file a lawsuit.

Curcio, who did not return a request for comment about the coronavirus relief, at one time was a reputed member of the Genovese crime family convicted of federal loan sharking and extortion charges. He is involved with numerous enterprises in the area.

I think, all in all, we did a pretty good job analyzing these, said Bridgeport Economic Director Tom Gill. We tried to be as fair and as objective as possible with this and wanted to make sure we were able to help as many as we could.

He said the city followed U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development criteria, and focused on businesses owned by Bridgeport residents and/or that employ residents, particularly of low-to-moderate means. Other criteria included years in operation  at least 18 months  and job retention.

So depending upon the number of employees you had, that could impact your award, Gill said.

Rowena White, Ganims communications director, added: There was no bias with names. It was all about the business and how they fit into the community and how the city could help sustain them.

Nate Morans Main Street insurance and tax preparation agency qualified for the full $15,000. Moran said he relies mainly on walk-ins, and that customer base dried up when everyone was staying home to prevent the spread of COVID.

We have about 15 employees, Moran said. The last thing I want to do ... is let go of my people. So I had to come up with the money out of my own pocket to keep my employees. Theyre family to me.

Moran also owns the Main Street building that is home to Eat Fish, a restaurant getting $10,000.

Leisha Young, owner of Leishas Bakeria downtown, and Laura Pennock, who runs Black Rock Pilates in that section of town, said there was a lot of paperwork involved. Young is receiving $5,300, but Pennock was turned down, the city said, for not submitting all the required information.

Pennock, who has been holding lots of virtual instruction during the pandemic, said she can survive without the funds, but added: Would it have helped? Absolutely. ... I hope this money went to people who are really trying to keep their businesses running.

Im very happy I got something. Its going to help, Young said. She had hoped for more considering business remains slow with many offices still closed. Were not going to be close or back to normal ... probably until the end of summer, she said.

Young encouraged City Hall to consider another round of aid. Bridgeport is anticipating receiving $113.85 million from the new, $1.9 trillion federal COVID rescue package.

If theres an opportunity to maybe provide more funding or grants similar to what we did and we see the need out there, wed certainly look at that, yes, Gill said.

Back at JC Auto Sales, Fernandez said the need is there: This pandemic hit everybody. I dont care what business youre in.
Huang was rushed to Staten Island University Hospital North with head trauma and died there about half an hour later, police said. She was about a mile and a half from home when she was struck.
MIDDLETOWN  The first full week of May is another busy one for the chamber team.

The first major meeting of the month takes place Monday with a virtual gathering of our Executive Committee. As I have noted many times, our Executive Committee features a variety of business and community leaders from a number of industry sectors. Mondays meeting will be led by our Chairman Tom Byrne, and, along with important updates on chamber activities, will feature updates from the public health and banking sectors in Middlesex County.

This week also features important meetings of our Portland & East Hampton Division, Central Business Bureau, Chester, Deep River & Essex Division, LEAD CT Steering Committee, Environment & Infrastructure Committee, Real Estate Council and Chamber Finance Committee.

We also look forward to another installment of our very successful Tuesday Tips campaign, which brings in professionals from a variety of industry sectors for in depth conversations. This Tuesdays event, Technology Trends & What to Invest In, is presented by Charles IT.

We have seen over the past year how important IT is to small businesses. Tuesdays session will cover strategic technology investments and how critical they are to your business or organization. To register or for more information on our Tuesday Tips series, please visit www.middlesexchamber.com.

On Wednesday evening, the MEWS+ will host the first installment of its spring 2021 incubator, which is designed to assist entrepreneurs with refining their ideas, understanding fundamental business concepts, and working through the initial stages of their business. The program is offered over a nine-week schedule, and includes a workshop series, with topics ranging from business strategy, finance, legal, marketing, technology and productivity, and wellness and personal development.

I continue to be very proud of how far our MEWS+ effort has come, and we look forward to making it even stronger in the coming months.

This busy week shows the true depth of the chamber calendar which is always packed with events and activities.

In addition to these important meetings that are specific to our chamber, I look forward to my weekly virtual meeting with the leaders of the Metro Chambers of Commerce in our state. The metro chambers collectively represent thousands of Connecticut businesses, and these meetings always feature productive discussions about collaboration and joint advocacy for the business community.

Chamber Vice President Jeff Pugliese will represent us on a meeting of the South-Central Manufacturing Industry Partnership Friday morning. This important effort is an industry-led regional sector partnership focused on growing and supporting the manufacturing industry in the South-Central region of our state. Fridays meeting will focus on identifying outcomes and early wins for each of the priority areas that were identified at the partnerships launch meeting in March.

We will continue to do everything we can to support this critical industry sector in our region and in our state.

Speaking of critical industry sectors, the Central Regional Tourism District will hold its annual brochure swap at the Courtyard by Marriott in Cromwell Friday afternoon. The brochure swap will help visitors and residents explore everything that our state has to offer on the tourism front.

Chamber VP Johanna Bond continues to do a great job in her role as executive director of the district, and we will continue to support this vital industry as well moving forward. As I have noted in the past, all of these strategic partnerships are more important now than ever before.

On the business development front, I look forward to joining chamber Chairman Tom Byrne, Central Business Bureau Chairwoman Pam Steele and Middletown Mayor Ben Florsheim Tuesday afternoon for the grand opening celebration of Harries Jailhouse on Warwick Street. Located in the old historic Pamecha Jailhouse, the restaurant offers comfort cuisine and classic cocktails along with a great atmosphere.

The menu looks fantastic, and we would like to wish Heather Kelley and Carrie Carella all the best as they embark on this new adventure. We will be there to support them along the way.

Finally, I would like to close this weeks chamber column by noting just how much I enjoyed my visit to the Coleman Brothers Carnival in Middletown last weekend. The familiar vibe at the carnival was back, and everyone was really happy with how well this years event was managed, from cleanliness, to social distancing and more.

The Coleman Brothers Carnival is an institution in Middletown that goes back over 100 years. The return of this beloved community event proves that we are on the right track, and that we have to stay positive and believe that we will all be stronger on the back end of the pandemic.

I would like to thank Tim and Arlene Coleman, the entire family, and their entire team for their commitment to Middletown, and for their annual efforts to provide a safe and fun environment for our community.

The sun always shines in Middlesex County!

Larry McHugh is president of the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce in Middletown.
Charles Island, a 14-acre island located approximately 0.5 miles off the coast of Milford, boasts a long and storied past. The unassuming island is steeped in decades of history, is said to be thrice cursed, and is a now cherished state resource for native wildlife.

The first curse was said to have been laid upon the land by a Paugusset chief in 1639 when he lost the land, which he believed to be home to the sacred spirits, to European settlers. Resulting in ill will, he cursed the island, any structure that was erected on the island and anyone who tried to live there. The second was laid on the island in 1699 by Scottish pirate and notorious high sea robber Captain William Kidd, who was lured into a trap on the island leading to his trial and execution, but not before he buried treasure. He, like any good pirate, cursed the island, believing if you curse the land, youll scare off any would be treasure hunters. The third curse was by a group of sailors in the 1721 said to have buried treasure on the island seeking to hide it after stealing it from Mexican ruler Guatmozin. Meeting a bad end, they cursed the island so no one could find the treasure and cursed anyone attempting to come after them.

There are lots of stories about this very cool place connected to Silver Sands Beach by a naturally occurring tidal sandbar (tombolo), said Mayor Ben Blake. For us Milford kids, the best local folklore holds that the notorious Captain William Kidd visited Milford in 1699 on his way to Boston where he was subsequently arrested and imprisoned prior to being returned to England for trial and execution. According to the same legend, Captain Kidd also buried a portion of his fortune on Charles Island, possibly beneath the giant boulder known as Hog Rock. For over 300 years, people of all ages have searched for the lost pirates chest.

Geologically the island is a coastal moraine segment formed by an unsorted glacial deposit (mixture of rocks and sediment). It is also a tied-island  tied to the mainland by a connecting bar consisting of pebbles and cobble. Erosion has reduced the size and width of the sandbar and of the island itself. The island is accessible from shore during low tide via a sandbar, a tide-washed rocky mound known as a tombolo, which stretches from the mainland beach to the island. Visitors are cautioned about the strong undertow and twice daily flooding of the sandbar during high tide.

According to local histories, the Sachem Ansantawae resided on the island during the summer months. European discovery of the island occurred in 1614. The island was originally known as Poquehaug until the area was settled by the English in 1639 and was then referred to as Milford Island. In 1657 Charles Deal bought the island, henceforth Charles Island, as it is known to this day.

The island has changed hands numerous times through the centuries, which included its use as a tobacco plantation in 1657, a fertilizer plant, a hotel in the 1880s, and a Catholic mens retreat center in the 1920s and 30s. Each eventually failed. It has been considered as a site for a yacht club, amusement park, military installations during WWI, and a nuclear power plant.

The state of Connecticut now owns the island, which was designated a Natural Area Preserve in 1999 for the local bird population of herons and egrets. The island, managed by CTDEEPs Wildlife and Habitat Management Program, is densely wooded, providing an essential habitat for water birds.

The hosts one of the states largest remaining breeding colonies of heron and egret. Designated an Important Bird Area by the National Audubon Society, it provides nesting habitat for rare and state-threatened bird species, including endangered Roseate Terns, Great and Snowy Egret, Glossy Ibis, Long-eared Owl, and Least Tern. The island also supports year round bird inhabitants, migratory waterfowl and wading birds.

Charles Island is a Natural Area Preserve, said Patrick Comins, Executive Director at Connecticut Audubon. People make the argument that its public land so they should be able to go there  there is a specific program of the state called the Natural Area of Preserve Program and its at the discretion of the DEEP Wildlife Division what the rules and regulations are. The island is closed between Memorial Day and Labor Day. The state is the land owner. It is a very important nesting area for state threatened Snowy Egrets and Great Egrets as well as Black Crowned Night Herons, Glossy Ibis and perhaps some Blue Herons as well. There are also state threatened American Oyster Catchers that nest on the shores of the island.

Access to Charles Island via the sandbar is closed from the end of May through the beginning of September in an effort to protect the native wild bird population and their nesting sites. People are asked to respect the rules and stay off the island during the nesting season.

The trees have been dying because of a fungus, continued Comins. The state is working on two things out there now, theres an invasive vine that is overtaking called Mile a Minute and they are working to eradicate it. Theyre also planting of native trees (Sassafras and Cottonwood) that can serve as nesting structures in the future for the herons and egrets out there.

The habitat on the island has changed significantly over the last 12 years, said Jenny Dickson, wildlife biologist. When the wading bird colony was a thriving colony, the habitat on the island was very, very different, there was a very dense canopy cover, there was a good structured canopy mid layer, there were shrubs, it was very dense and shaded. A lot of the vegetation out there was invasive species, Norway Maples, Tree of Heaven and Bittersweet Vines which weighed the trees down. Deer moved out to the island and removed (ate) regeneration that was occurring. Add to that a very unusual soil fungus called Amalaria which is affecting the root system of the trees. Add Hurricane Sandy which hit the island hard damaging vegetation. The only thing that survived ironically was the Norway Maple Trees.

We are working to get the habitat back to what it was so we can retain the colonys there, said Dickson. We are strategically planting new cedar and hardwood trees (Red Cedar, Oaks, Sassafras). The Mile a Minute Vine has now also taken hold on the island which we are removing when it doesnt disturb the nesting birds, we introduced beetles that eat Mile a Minute Vine, and we put deer fencing up  we are making progress.

Interestingly, the birds that nest on Charles Island fly up and down the coast foraging to get food to bring back to their nestlings, Comins said. If you live between the New Haven area and at least Stratford, maybe further, and you see herons and egrets, which are very beautiful, theyre probably flying back and forth from Charles Island. There are only about a half dozen islands off the coast of Connecticut that host all of the nesting herons and egrets, there may be 100 nests or more on the island. If people keep going back and forth to the island theyre going to scare the birds away and that whole colony will abandon the island and you wont see any egrets or heron in the whole center part of the state. Dogs also flush out the wildlife. Charles Island is critically important to the continuation of these threatened species. The Snow Egret is doing very poorly in the state; I wouldnt be surprised if it becomes a state endangered species.

One of the big changes for the birds is that the canopy isnt as closed as it once was, said Dickson. Now the birds are much more exposed and they can see people a lot more quickly than they ever did before, making them a lot more nervous. Its sometimes difficult for the public to understand, but things have changed. We cant have access to the island the same way we did 15 years because the habitat has changed so much that it doesnt allow us to do that. The birds are much more sensitive to disturbance now than they were 15-20 years ago. The birds are now faced with a huge challenge.

Additionally, they dont want people going out to that island because theres a very high tidal range in that part of Long Island Sound, added Comins. Its connected by a tombolo during low tide, but then youre out on the island and the water starts rushing in with the tide and it gets slippery. People have actually slipped and fallen in the water on the way back and drowned. These are two reasons why its closed, for safety and to protect the birds and again it isnt public property, its a Natural Preserve.

Now is a great time to observe these birds with a pair of binoculars from Silver Sands State Park, theyre just beautiful, added Comins. Its also about the best place in the state to see Clapper Rails and wildlife including migrating birds and owls. Hammonassett State Park is another great place to see these nesting birds. Keep in mind, whenever youre seeing these great birds along the coast, theyre only nesting on a very small number of islands off shore and if those colonies are lost well lose those birds. We lost them in the 19th century and it wasnt until the 1960s that returned to nesting in Connecticut. We could easily lose them again for another hundred years.
The U.S. Air Force has put together two new teams to address barriers and other issues affecting airmen and Space Force Guardians belonging to the LGBTQA or Native American communities.

The service on April 26 announced the formation of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer/Questioning Initiative Team, or LIT, and the Indigenous Nations Equality Team, or INET, to better analyze issues impacting diversity, career limitations and retention of these service members, according to a news release.

"With the addition of these two groups, we will have a better understanding of barriers to service, which allows us to enhance our diversity and inclusion," Gwendolyn DeFilippi, assistant deputy chief of staff for manpower, personnel and services, said in the release. "Our Airmen and Guardians are the pulse of our Department's culture and the diverse backgrounds; inputs from these volunteer groups [are] vital."

Read Next: Commandant Suspends Marine 2-Star Who Went Unpunished After AAV Disaster

The creation of LIT comes 10 years after the repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell." The 1993 policy, begun under the Clinton administration, was meant to give gays and lesbians the chance to serve, though they could not openly discuss their sexual orientation.

"I expect our group will grow," said Maj. Gen. Leah Lauderback, one of the group's founders. She is the director of intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance for the U.S. Space Force at the Pentagon.

"Our community and allies want to help!" she added in the release.

Meanwhile, INET will review guidelines, programs and other data regarding the advancement and retention practices of "American Indian/Native American and Alaska Native employees and military members," officials said.

"We are looking forward to representing our Airmen and Guardians who are a part of the indigenous nation's community," said Col. Terrence Adams, a member of the INET team. "We are hoping to identify changes that will eliminate barriers affecting members within these groups. We cannot be aware of things that need to change unless we are talking about them with an open mind."

Under the umbrella Barrier Analysis Working Group created in 2008, the service has established seven teams: the Black/African American Employment Strategy Team, Disability Action Team, Hispanic Empowerment and Action Team, Indigenous Nations Equality Team, LGBTQ Initiative Team, Pacific Islander/Asian American Community Team, and Women's Initiatives Team, the release states.

The Women's Initiative Team, for example, has been instrumental in encouraging change for outdated or restrictive policies for female airmen and has spearheaded initiatives to deliver better uniforms, including maternity uniforms and flight suits, after many years of ill-fitting equipment.

In addition to the working groups, the Air Force began a forcewide survey last month as part of an Inspector General Independent Disparity Review.

The review, which covers both Air Force and Space Force personnel, is focused on racial disparities in the administration of military justice by race, gender and ethnicity within the Asian, Hispanic and American Indian communities.

It follows the service's first racial disparity review, which compared the experiences of Black service members with those of their peers.

-- Oriana Pawlyk can be reached at oriana.pawlyk@military.com. Follow her on Twitter at @Oriana0214.

Related: New Air Force Survey Investigates Justice Disparities in Asian, Hispanic, Native Communities
President Joe Biden will deliver the address at the Coast Guard Academy's commencement ceremony May 19, his first at a service academy as commander in chief.

The ceremony marks the school's 140th graduation and Biden's second keynote address there: He spoke at the event in 2013 as vice president.

Academy Superintendent Rear Adm. Bill Kelly said Monday the school is honored to host the president. "It will be a memorable event for our community, as well as a great opportunity to showcase the Academy and the city of New London on a national stage," he said.

Read Next: This Change to Boot Camp Training Could Cut Recruit Injury Rates

The event will take place nearly four years to the day after Biden's predecessor delivered the commencement speech at the New London, Connecticut, school. President Donald Trump's first appearance as president at a service academy graduation took place at the Coast Guard Academy on May 17, 2017.

"You have to learn how to act under great, great pressure.  The Coast Guard is the gold standard. ... You don't run from danger, you chase it," Trump told the graduates during his speech.

The Coast Guard Academy will hold its ceremony on Cadet Memorial Field with a limited number of guests in attendance. Last year, it held a virtual ceremony, with the cadets attending at home. Then-Acting Secretary of Homeland Security Chad Wolf delivered the address.

Vice President Kamala Harris will deliver the commencement address at U.S. Naval Academy during a ceremony to be held at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium on May 28. That ceremony will be an in-person event with each midshipman being allowed two to four guests at various events spaced across Commissioning Week. Last year, the academy held the ceremony virtually in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Army Gen. Mark Milley will deliver the keynote speech at the Air Force's graduation ceremony, scheduled for May 26. It will be an in-person event held at Falcon Stadium, with each graduate allowed eight guests.

"General Milley has served in numerous command and staff positions as well as several operational deployments throughout his distinguished Army career," Air Force Academy Superintendent Lt. Gen. Richard Clark said in announcing the guest speaker. "Graduating cadets and their loved ones are privileged to have the opportunity to welcome the chairman and hear his thoughts and insights on leadership and service."

The U.S. Military Academy has not yet announced the speaker for its commencement and commissioning ceremony, scheduled for May 22. A spokeswoman for the West Point, New York, school said it traditionally releases the information only after the speaker announces it.

Historically, the speakers at the academies rotate among the schools and include the president, vice president and secretary of defense.

-- Patricia Kime can be reached at Patricia.Kime@Monster.com. Follow her on Twitter @patriciakime.

Related: Kamala Harris to Give Naval Academy Commissioning Address
The inspector general of the Marine Corps, who was found to bear some responsibility leading up to a deadly amphibious assault vehicle accident last summer, has been suspended from his job.

Maj. Gen. Robert Castellvi has been temporarily removed from his duties pending an ongoing investigation, Assistant Commandant Gen. Gary Thomas told lawmakers Monday during a hearing on the July 2020 accident. Castellvi served as commanding general of the California-based 1st Marine Division when an AAV sank off San Diego's coast last July, killing nine troops.

The decision to suspend Castellvi was made by Commandant Gen. David Berger late last week, said Capt. Andrew Wood, a Marine spokesman at the Pentagon. The suspension is pending the outcome of a new investigation into how the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit assembled for its fall deployment last year.

Read Next: Every Grunt a Swimmer: Behind the Marine Corps' New Focus on Water Skills

The AAV that sank was one of several vehicles assigned to the 15th MEU that was in a state of disrepair. Members of Castellvi's former division were also found to lack training for waterborne missions -- even though they were assigned to a MEU, which would deploy on a Navy warship.

"Castellvi has not been reassigned at this time," Wood said. Carlyle Shelton Jr., the civilian deputy Marine Corps inspector general, is now serving as acting IG of the Marine Corps, he added.

Thomas said 11 Marines have been or will be held accountable for their roles in the accident.

"Some of these accountability actions are ongoing, including boards to consider separation from the service," he said. "We make decisions regarding accountability based on an individual's responsibilities, and the performance of duties. An individual's rank neither obligates nor excuses them from accountability.

"As we learn more about this tragedy, we will take additional measures as appropriate," Thomas added.

Two commanding officers were relieved of their duties following the accident. Lt. Col. Michael J. Regner, commanding officer of Battalion Landing Team, 1st Battalion, 4th Marines, was relieved in October. Col. Christopher Bronzi, the 15th MEU's commanding officer, was relieved in March while the unit was operating in the Middle East.

The investigation also recommended "appropriate administrative or disciplinary action" against the AAV platoon commander, AAV platoon sergeant, and vehicle commander. Marine officials have not provided updates as to whether any actions have been taken in those cases.

Families of the eight Marines and one sailor killed in the accident have been calling for accountability for the failures that investigators found led up to the AAV sinking. Mechanical problems, training shortfalls and leadership all contributed.

Lt. Gen. Steven Rudder, head of Marine Corps Forces Pacific, wrote in his endorsement letter accompanying the investigation that Castellvi bore some responsibility for the AAV platoon not completing a readiness evaluation before the training exercise. Rudder ultimately declined to take any action against the two-star general.

Castellvi's follow-on assignment to become the inspector general of the Marine Corps drew questions from families affected by the tragedy and lawmakers. The assignment had him overseeing Marine Corps investigations and allegations of wrongdoing against senior leaders.

Rep. Jackie Speier, a California Democrat, told Castellvi during a separate hearing last month that she didn't "understand how someone gets elevated to the position of inspector general after being in charge of [the AAV] disaster."

Speier again asked about Castellvi's status during Monday's hearing, which centered around the Marine Corps' safety shortfalls leading up to the accident. That included a lack of egress for most inside the doomed vehicle the day of the accident, which Rudder noted in his endorsement letter of the investigation might have better prepared the Marines and sailor inside the AAV to respond more quickly as the mishap unfolded.

Thomas reiterated Monday that the accident was preventable.

"The sinking of this AAV and the deaths of eight Marines and one sailor were preventable -- preventable in so many ways," he said. "But we failed. We failed these brave young men."

-- Gina Harkins can be reached at gina.harkins@military.com. Follow her on Twitter @ginaaharkins.

Related: Lawmakers Question General's Prestigious Pentagon Assignment After Fatal AAV Accident
ANNAPOLIS, Md.  Vice President Kamala Harris will deliver the keynote address at the Naval Academy's commissioning ceremony, a White House official told a Maryland news outlet Friday.

Harris is expected to give the speech May 28 during the in-person, limited capacity ceremony in Annapolis, The Capital reported Friday, citing a White House spokesperson.

The ceremony, which will take place at the Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium, marks the transition from midshipman to commissioned officer for honorees.

Historically, the speaker rotates among the vice president, president and the secretary of defense, The Capital said. Last year, former Secretary of Defense Mark Esper gave the keynote speech at a virtual commissioning. Former President Donald Trump delivered it in 2018 and former Vice President Mike Pence gave it in 2017. As vice president, President Joe Biden gave speeches in 2015 and 2010.

It will be the second time in two months that Harris has visited Maryland. She was in the state Thursday for a tour of a Baltimore mass vaccination site, among other business.

This article was written by The Associated Press from The Associated Press and was legally licensed through the Industry Dive publisher network. Please direct all licensing questions to legal@industrydive.com.
Cops arent going to do anything to me, she allegedly yelled as she hit the victim again and the two tumbled to the floor. Campbell also tried to rip the flight attendants dress off during the incident, prosecutors said.
AUGUSTA, Ga.  A common U.S. Army combat order is to secure the objective.

Thats exactly what Fort Gordons museum is fighting to do  to keep irreplaceable pieces of Signal Corps history from leaving Augusta forever.

The U.S. Army Signal Corps Museum at Fort Gordon officially closed in February with a casing ceremony held at the installation.

The Army is making its decision in May or June, said Amy Tuschen, executive director of the Fort Gordon Historical Museum Society. Theyre already packing everything up. By May or June, in the next 60 days max, theyre going to decide whether theyre going to keep the artifacts here.

Adolf Hitlers telephone was taken from his private library as Allied troops liberated Berlin in 1945. The phone currently belongs to the Fort Gordon Historical Museum.

The trove of artifacts includes Adolf Hitlers telephone, taken from his personal library in the Reich Chancellery when Allied troops liberated Berlin in 1945; and Oscar statuettes that the Signal Corps won for documentaries in 1942, 1946 and 1948.

Just unique, cant-find-in-other-places types of things, Tuschen said.

Secure the objective means buying the former National Science Center building near the forts Gate 1, where the center operated from 1981 to 1997.

The museums fundraising target is $4.5 million.

If we get even half of that we can secure the building but that will help us get things ready and moved, Tuschen said. Its actually owned by a veteran who is willing to help our cause by dropping the price a bit if we can show in good faith that were able to purchase it.

The U.S. Army Signal Corps dates to 1860, but its connection to Fort Gordon began in 1948, when a Signal Corps training center was established at then-Camp Gordon. In 1974, the Army moved its main Signal School to Fort Gordon from Fort Monmouth in New Jersey.

Several factors played into closing Fort Gordons museum. One is the mushrooming growth spurred by locating the U.S. Army Cyber Command there. New construction around the forts Signal Towers is forcing out space for the museum.

Also, the Army as a whole is not in the museum business anymore, Tuschen said. Instead, it partners with nonprofits to keep museums running at installations such as Georgias Fort Stewart in Hinesville, Fort Campbell in Kentucky and Fort Hood in Texas.

Eventually the intent is for our nonprofit to get the building, secure that, then theyd be able to use the artifacts and it would be proffered to the Army so that they could still provide organizational support, she said.

The web address SecureOurStory.org, which directs visitors to the museums webpage, lists the many ways donors can contribute, including PayPal and Venmo.

The Army is expected to render a decision in the next month or two on whether the museums artifacts should stay at Fort Gordon. Otherwise, they could be shipped off to other installations.

So thats why were at risk of losing having the main things here, Tuschen said. If they get into the Army inventory they could potentially not be back here.

This article was written by JOE HOTCHKISS, Augusta Chronicle from The Associated Press and was legally licensed through the Industry Dive publisher network. Please direct all licensing questions to legal@industrydive.com.
No arrests have been made nearly five months after a Special Forces soldier and veteran were found dead Dec. 2, at Fort Bragg, an official said this week.

A spokesman for the Army Criminal Investigation Command said the investigation continues into the deaths of Master Sgt. William LaVigne II, 37, and Army veteran Timothy Dumas, 44.

Death certificates for Dumas and LaVigne state each died from gunshot wounds and were shot by an "unknown assailant."

In February, the FBI announced that it is assisting in the case.

"There have not been any arrest(s) and we are not releasing any additional details at this time," Shelly Lynch, a spokeswoman for the FBI in Charlotte, said in an email this week.

Investigators have asked anyone with information on the case to contact the FBI or Army Criminal Investigation Command.

A news release from the FBI in February stated that the bodies of the men were found near a Fort Bragg training area. LaVigne's gray 2016 Chevrolet Colorado pickup was found at the crime scene in the woods off Manchester Road.

Dumas's dark-colored 2015 Dodge Ram pickup was discovered abandoned somewhere else, the news release stated.

The death certificate lists LaVigne's cause of death as multiple gunshot wounds. Dumas's cause of death is listed as gunshot wounds to the chest and head.

The death certificates say the two men were found about 3:30 p.m. Dec. 2, in the woods on Fort Bragg. The certificates don't indicate how long the bodies were in the woods.

It is not clear how the men knew each other.

LaVigne was assigned to the Headquarters and Headquarters Company of the U.S. Army Special Operations Command and had been in the Army for 19 years.

His death certificate states his last place of residence was in Hope Mills.

Army records show Dumas served in the Army as a property accounting technician from November 1996 to March 2016, separating as a chief warrant officer 3.

He was a resident of Pinehurst at the time of his death.

LaVigne and Dumas were each scheduled to appear in court on unrelated cases in December and January, according to court records.

LaVigne was supposed to be in Cumberland County District Court on Jan. 15 for a Feb. 17, 2020, hit-and-run charge, court documents say.

Dumas was scheduled to appear in Forsyth County District Court on Dec. 17 for charges of breaking and entering, communicating threats and impersonating a law enforcement officer, according to court records.

Court documents state that Dumas broke into an apartment in Walkertown "with the intent to terrorize and injure an occupant of the building," on April 11, 2020.

The record states Dumas yelled "police open the door" after knocking.

A spokeswoman for the Forsyth County Sheriff's Office said the 911 call for the Walkertown incident came it at 12:54 a.m. April 11, 2020, as an anonymous assault in progress.

Spokeswoman Christina Howell said she could not elaborate on the specifics of what happened because stories of individuals at the scene appeared to differ "about why they were there and how they know each other," but that it did not appear to be a random incident.

Howell was unable to say what threats Dumas directed toward the victim but that there was enough evidence to charge him with the crimes.

LaVigne also was involved in other Cumberland County cases that never resulted in charges, records show.

On March 21, 2018, at his Anhinga Drive home, LaVigne shot to death his friend, Army Sgt. 1st Class Mark Leshikar. The LaVigne and Leshikar familes had just returned from a trip to Disneyland. The Cumberland County Sheriff's Office investigated and declared the death "justifiable homicide."

Then, on Sept. 1, 2018, Lavigne was charged with felony harboring an escapee and maintaining a vehicle or dwelling to manufacture a controlled substance. The charges were dropped when authorities determined he was not involved in the criminal activity, Cumberland County District Attorney Billy West told The Fayetteville Observer at the time.

Investigators ask that anyone with information about the deaths of LaVigne and Dumas call the FBI Charlotte office at 704-672-6100 or Army CID at 910-396-8777.

This article is written by Rachael Riley from The Fayetteville Observer, N.C. and was legally licensed via the Tribune Content Agency through the Industry Dive publisher network. Please direct all licensing questions to legal@industrydive.com.
Former Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Robert Wilkie is joining the Heritage Foundation as a visiting fellow, the conservative think tank announced Monday.

He will provide "vital research and analysis on improving veterans programs, promoting military and national service, and improving defense personnel programs," Heritage said in its announcement.

"I am grateful to The Heritage Foundation for this opportunity to continue the important work I started at the Department of Veterans Affairs," Wilkie said in a statement. "During my tenure as VA secretary, I often looked to Heritage for principled advice and guidance."

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Wilkie oversaw the VA at a critical time as it dramatically expanded community care following passage of the Mission Act and during the pandemic.

He left the department largely in disgrace when President Joe Biden took office, as Democrats, including House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and virtually all major veterans groups called for his resignation after a damning VA inspector general report on his handling of a congressional aide's sexual assault allegation.

The IG investigation found that Wilkie had attempted to discredit Andrea Goldstein, a House Veterans Affairs Committee staffer and an officer in the Navy Reserve, after she alleged in September 2019 that she had been sexually assaulted by a man at a VA hospital in Washington, D.C.

"The tone set by Secretary Wilkie was at minimum unprofessional and at worst provided the basis for senior officials to put out information to national reporters to question the credibility and background of the veteran who filed the sexual assault complaint," Inspector General Michael Missal concluded in his report.

The Heritage Foundation is a critical organization for conservative politics in D.C. It advises lawmakers, advocates for conservative policies and facilitates hiring for some congressional offices.

The think tank has picked up several Trump administration figures, including former Vice President Mike Pence, who is serving as a distinguished visiting fellow.

-- Steve Beynon can be reached at Steve.Beynon@military.com. Follow him on Twitter @StevenBeynon.

Related: More Lawmakers, Veterans Groups Call for VA Secretary Robert Wilkie to Resign
Historical fiction plays up places like Bletchley Park in Buckinghamshire, England, as romantic and exciting despite the very real threat of Nazi invasion and bombing during World War II. Women made up about 75% of the workforce at Bletchley Park, which consisted of jobs operating cryptographic and communications machinery and translating documents. Some even were breaking code with the legendary Dilly Knox, who helped decrypt the Zimmermann telegram that brought the U.S. into World War I and broke the German Naval and Abwehr Enigma codes during World War II.

But on the other side of the ocean from these Bletchley Park women -- many of whom were military spouses who worked together to find out the status of their husbands ships and units -- one very smart American military spouse was working to break codes as well.

When Elizebeth Smith graduated with a degree in English literature in 1915, the world was already at war. A year later, she began working at Riverbank Laboratories in Illinois, one of the first places in the U.S. founded to study cryptography. Riverbank was founded by George Fabyan, and the initial staff of 15 people included William Friedman, whom Smith married in May 1917.

Friedman, who trained Army officers at Riverbank, then enlisted in the U.S. Army and served as personal cryptographer for Gen. John J. Pershing.

The Friedmans worked together in Illinois until 1921, when they moved to Washington, D.C., to work as a team for the War Department. William Friedman became the chief cryptanalyst, and Elizebeth deciphered messages through the Prohibition years and broke codes written in Mandarin. Elizebeth and William worked together frequently, but she made several cryptological contributions on her own.

Elizebeth moved to work for the Navy, the Treasury Department and, eventually, the Coast Guard. She solved most intercepts herself and also spent time teaching others how to decrypt coded messages. She relocated to Houston to solve smuggling traffic cases and decrypted 24 coding systems used by the smugglers. In three years, she solved more than 12,000 messages in three years. She also helped indict Al Capone.

During World War II, Elizebeth worked for the Navy and focused on Operation Bolivar, the German network in South America. Her team was the primary codebreakers for the South American threat, and they broke three Enigma machines. Her team decoded 4,000 messages from 48 radio circuits during the war.

After the war, she consulted with the International Monetary Fund. Friedman, who was 88 years old when she died in 1980, was inducted posthumously to the National Security Agency Hall of Fame in 1999 -- the year of its creation. During the NSA's 50th anniversary in 2002, the OPS1 building was dedicated as the William and Elizebeth Friedman Building. A Coast Guard Cutter was named after her, and a television documentary series called "American Experience" has an episode based on her.

The Mob Museum in Las Vegas includes Elizebeth Smith Friedman among its list of notable names, mostly in reference to the work she did during the Prohibition Era.

--Rebecca Alwine can be reached at rebecca.alwine@monster.com. Follow her on Twitter @rebecca_alwine.

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The Mets released Caleb Joseph from his split contract with the team, MLBTR has learned. The move took place last week. Joseph signed with New York in February and was a late cut at the end of Spring Training camp.

A veteran of seven big league seasons, Joseph is best known for his time as a backup and part-time catcher with the Orioles from 2014-18. He also appeared in 20 games with the Diamondbacks in 2019 and three games back in the AL East with the Blue Jays last season. Joseph has hit .222/.270/.351 with 32 home runs over 1367 career plate appearances in the majors, but is better known for his defense, particularly his pitch-framing and his ability to throw out baserunners.

Josephs release leaves the Mets without much experienced catching depth at the Triple-A level, though the club added another backstop by claiming Deivy Grullon off waivers from the Rays last week. Grullon, Bruce Maxwell, and Patrick Mazeika are the top depth options behind the MLB catching combo of James McCann and Tomas Nido.
The Pirates have signed catcher Christian Bethancourt to a minor league deal, according to Jason Mackey of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette (Twitter link). Bethancourt will report to Pittsburghs Triple-A affiliate for the beginning of the minor league season.

From 2013-17, Bethancourt hit .222/.252/.316 over 489 plate appearances with the Braves and Padres, primarily playing catcher but also getting some time as a corner outfielder, second baseman, and even as a pitcher over six relief appearances. (He also played some first base in the minors.) Bethancourt is still looking for a return trip to the majors, having played with the Brewers Triple-A team in 2018, the KBO Leagues NC Dinos in 2019, and he has also inked minor league contracts with the Phillies in each of the last two offseasons but didnt see any official playing time with Philadelphia.

Bethancourt will likely be deployed as catching depth, joining Andrew Susac and Joe Hudson as MLB-experienced backstops in Pittsburghs farm system. Jacob Stallings and Michael Perez are the Pirates top two catchers at the big league level, and since the Bucs are still in the midst of a rebuild, it wouldnt be a shock if Stallings (currently hitting a cool .246/.388/.400 in 80 PA) was moved before the July trade deadline. This could open the door for Bethancourt or one of the other catchers to be bumped up to the active roster.
WEST BLOOMFIELD, MI -- A 41-year-old woman was killed and two other adults were injured in a house explosion that took place Friday night. According to the West Bloomfield Police, officers were called to the house on Stonecrest Road around 11:18 p.m. for reports of an explosion.

When police arrived they found a woman severely injured in the kitchen of the house. Three children and three adults were evacuated from the house with all three adults being transported to the hospital for treatment. After arriving at the hospital, the 41-year-old was eventually pronounced dead.

Police did not release any information on the conditions of the others injured in the blast. The cause of the explosion has not yet been determined.

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LANSING, MI  Police have released the identities of a man and woman who were shot to death over the weekend at a home in Lansing, The Associated Press reports.

The bodies of Harley Owens, 39, and Kelsey Coon-Lennon, 29, were found around 2 a.m. Saturday, May 1, when authorities responded to reports of gunshots, AP reports. The shooting happened at a home in the 600 block of Baker Street in Lansing, FOX 47 reports.

Both victims lived in Lansing, AP reports.

No arrests have been made, according to reports. Police have not released any information on the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

This is truly a tragedy, Lansing Police Chief Daryl Green said in a statement. LPD will leverage every resource and partnership it has to hold accountable any persons involved. As a community, we owe this to the victims and their families.

Anyone with information can contact the Lansing Police Department at 517-483-4600 or via the department Facebook page, or call Crime Stoppers at 517-483-7867.

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ANN ARBOR, MI  Washtenaw County Circuit Judge Tim Connors is ordering a new cleanup plan for a toxic chemical plume spreading through the Ann Arbor areas groundwater.

The judge heard hours of testimony in the Gelman dioxane plume case Monday, May 3. He then told the parties hes going to issue an order for polluter Gelman Sciences to implement additional cleanup and monitoring activities outlined in a consent judgment proposal last year.

In addition to more pumping and treating of contaminated groundwater and attacking the plume at its source, the plan includes installing more monitoring wells.

Expert explains cleanup plan for Ann Arbor dioxane plume in 7 new videos

It also includes lowering the exposure limit for dioxane in drinking water from 85 parts per billion to 7.2 ppb as it relates to the Gelman plume  in keeping with rules adopted by the state five years ago before the current round of litigation began.

Connors called it a starting point to move the case forward, though its a decision that makes no party entirely happy. Local officials still have concerns about aspects of the plan and want more cleanup and monitoring than is being ordered, while Gelman complains it isnt getting concessions it wanted.

Officials expect some of the measures could take a year to implement, so theres still time to challenge aspects they dont support, like discharges of dioxane into First Sister Lake.

City Council Member Kathy Griswold, D-2nd Ward, said shes hopeful that part of the plan wont actually happen.

Its one step with ongoing review, Connors assured the parties of Mondays decision.

Connors wants the parties to come back for quarterly reviews in the case starting Sept. 1, and he expects Gelman to appeal Mondays decision to the Michigan Court of Appeals.

We all know what were doing here, he told the parties. This is just establishing a record that will get appellate review.

Some local officials said theyre optimistic about the judges decision.

I hope this results in cleanup happening, because really at the end of the day thats what we need, so Im hopeful, said Washtenaw County Board Chair Sue Shink.

A closer look at the proposed Gelman plume cleanup plan. Is it enough?

The local parties that intervened in the states longstanding litigation against polluter Gelman Sciences over four years ago  Ann Arbor, Scio Township, Washtenaw County and the Huron River Watershed Council  will remain as intervenors in the case, said Connors, who intends to stay on the case.

This is not the end, he said.

He told the local intervenors they also can continue to pursue a federal Superfund cleanup through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, a years-long pursuit just now starting.

Michael Caldwell, one of Gelmans attorneys, said he wants to be clear Gelman is not consenting to Connors order.

I know you object, Connors said, telling Gelmans legal team to fight it on appeal.

Raymond Ludwiszewski, another Gelman attorney, argued Connors lacked authority to hold Mondays hearing.

Theres an incorrect assumption of liability finding against Gelman and a remedy is being sought by entities that lack standing, according to Gelman, which argues it only should be dealing with the state, not the local intervenors.

Its the judges role to settle disputes between Gelman and the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy, but there are none, Ludwiszewski said, adding theyve agreed on a proposed consent decree since 2016.

The local intervenors have pushed for more cleanup and monitoring, beyond what the state was seeking, leading to negotiation of a consent judgment that local elected officials ultimately rejected last year because the overall settlement deal contained elements they and the public didnt support.

That included discharges of dioxane-laced water into First Sister Lake from proposed pump-and-treat operations and penalties for seeking a federal Superfund cleanup.

The proposed settlement also included having the intervenors agree to dismiss their intervention with limited future participation, Ludwiszewski noted, citing that as one of the concessions Gelman wanted.

He raised concerns about keeping the concessions Gelman offered in the consent judgment while throwing out concessions offered by the intervenors in separate settlement documents.

Its clear that the intervenors now want to revoke all their concessions and take all of Gelmans concessions for free, Ludwiszewski said. On top of that, they want to add a wish list of additional demands to the agreement.

Its unfair and sets a troubling precedent for future settlement negotiations, he said.

The additional monitoring and cleanup in last years proposed consent judgment are to be implemented under Connors order, while the local intervenors will get to stay in the case and not be penalized for seeking a Superfund cleanup.

Connors told the parties he wanted to hear from them where it hurts but what you can live with.

A map of the Gelman dioxane plume spreading through the Ann Arbor area, moving east through the city's west side toward West Park and branches of the Allen Creek drain system that discharge to the Huron River. Gelman Sciences is removing water from the ground using extraction wells and then treating it to remove dioxane. Treated water with lower levels of dioxane is then discharged to Honey Creek, which flows to the Huron River upstream of Barton Pond, Ann Arbor's main municipal water supply.

Nathan Dupes, an attorney representing Ann Arbor, said the additional cleanup and monitoring measures the intervenors are seeking beyond what was included in last years proposed consent judgment are only matters of degree, not kind.

The local intervenors want modifications to the consent judgment proposal from last year, including several more monitoring wells, including some in the West Park area, and a little bit more pump-and-treat remediation with some different criteria for cleanup termination, Dupes said.

They also want a smaller expansion of the groundwater-use prohibition zone than what was proposed last year, he said. Thats the area through which the plume is allowed to spread through Ann Arbor to the Huron River.

The parties in the case do not disagree on fundamental cleanup objectives and theyre in agreement on many specific response activities, Dupes said.

He told the judge they were before the court because Gelman spent decades discharging large volumes of a likely human carcinogen into the environment at its Wagner Road filter-manufacturing complex, releasing hundreds of thousands of pounds of the toxic substance between the 1960s and 1980s, and the state issued an emergency finding in 2016 that the current cleanup criteria was not protective of public health.

Dioxane is highly mobile and does not readily biodegrade in the environment, and the expanding plume has migrated in unexpected ways, Dupes said, arguing for doing more to track and address the releases from Gelmans property.

Its a complicated problem and one that still warrants serious attention and additional activities to handle it, he said.

The local intervenors are not asking for things that are drastically different than whats already on the table, and theyre not expecting full restoration of the groundwater aquifer to non-detect or drinking water standards, he said.

Theyre also not asking for a blanket of monitoring wells across the whole plume area, Dupes said.

There are about 140 monitoring wells now, another 14 proposed in the draft consent judgment last year, and the local intervenors still want eight more, he said.

The local intervenors also want Gelman to produce a map showing where dioxane concentrations in the groundwater are at 1 ppb, 7.2 ppb and 280 ppb, with additional perimeter monitoring wells and more monitoring to track the potential migration of the plume toward Barton Pond, the citys main drinking water source. The intervenors also want additional investigation of dioxane in the Allen Creek drain system and nearby shallow groundwater on the citys west side.

Connors told local residents and officials he lives atop the plume and understands their concerns.

In addition to attorneys for all parties, he gave several local officials and residents whove been closely following the issue for years a chance to speak during Mondays hearing.

Scio Township resident Roger Rayle, chairman of the local Coalition for Action on Remediation of Dioxane, discussed his decades of involvement and expressed concerns about poison pills in the consent judgment proposal from last year that he doesnt think should be implemented.

We have to make the right decision now and there are parts that are agreed to. Why not just implement those in the order and take on the rest of that in the quarterly followups? he said.

Connors said thats exactly what hes doing.

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ANN ARBOR, MI - Post-discharge care for COVID-19 long-haulers is now being offered by Michigan Medicine through a mix of virtual and in-person clinics.

Michigan Medicine is establishing clinics to provide post-discharge care to both adult and pediatric patients experiencing long-term post-COVID symptoms and complications.

Formally named the Multidisciplinary Post COVID-19 Clinic, the adult clinic located at Dominos Farms, 4000 Ave Maria Dr. Lobby C, Suite 1300, operates under a mixed in-person and virtual care model. In-person appointments are done on Friday afternoons.

Clinic patients must be age 18 and older with a history of lab-confirmed COVID-19, referred by a primary care provider or inpatient provider at discharge. Eligible patients also must have a comorbid diabetes, prediabetes, obesity, thyroid or adrenal diagnosis with continuation of symptoms post COVID-19, including fatigue, shortness of breath, joints and muscles pain, weakness, dizziness, chest pain and memory problems.

The clinics combine the work of two multidisciplinary teams that will study the diseases long-term outcomes in vulnerable adult and pediatric populations.

There is an urgent need to better understand the long-term complications of COVID-19 and provide specialized care for high-risk groups of patients, Michigan Medicine Endocrinologist and Adult Clinic Director Dr. Rodica Pop-Busui said.

Patients hospitalized for COVID-19 are experiencing a broad spectrum of long-term multi-organ issues involving pulmonary, cardiovascular, kidney, metabolic, mood and neurologic complications, with more than 1,500 adult patients having been hospitalized with severe COVID-19 at Michigan Medicine.

Pop-Busui said while it is Michigan Medicines goal to offer clinic services to all patients hospitalized with COVID-19, it is initially targeting patients with diabetes or obesity, given their high risk status.

A patients first clinic visit includes consultations with endocrinology, physical medicine and rehabilitation and neuropsychology. Additional specific criteria for lab and other tests will guide personalized referrals to selective virtual specialties based on how each patient presents in clinic, Michigan Medicine noted.

All consenting patients are invited to participate in research into the clinical care where theyll undergo a comprehensive battery of tests and questionnaires, with labs and imaging provided on site. Patients will then be prescribed a treatment plan, with follow-up appointments at three and six months.

Michigan Medicine also is offering a pediatric post-COVID Syndrome Clinic at C.S. Mott Childrens Hospital to assist children, adolescents and teens suffering from long-term effects of COVID-19 or multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children.

Eligible clinic patients must be under 21 with a history of lab-confirmed COVID-19, be referred by a primary care giver, have a continuation of symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, joint pain, chest pain, and cough that persist for more than two months post COVID-19. Children also must have no other exposures or explanations for the new or worsening symptoms.

Similar to the adult clinic, the pediatric clinic will offer virtual and in-person visits with the option to participate in research studies on the long-term effects of COVID-19 in children.

The patients first visit will either be in person or virtual to assess symptoms, the need for coordinated care and the need for additional testing. Experts will review the cases and come up with an assessment and treatment plan.

Weve seen many children who have breathing issues and other lingering symptoms long after an initial infection, said Dr. Carey Lumeng, a Mott pediatric pulmonologist who leads the Mott post-COVID clinic. Most of these initial infections were mild and didnt require hospitalization or even outpatient care. Our goal is to better understand this phenomenon in young people and ensure that patients see the right group of specialists to address their specific symptoms.

Appointments for the adult Multidisciplinary Post COVID-19 Clinic and the pediatric post-COVID Syndrome Clinic can be made online.

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There is no series of circumstances that fits the evidence where he could possibly have done it, she said over Zoom in her brother-in-laws appeal hearing, according to KOVR-TV. The justice system has failed here, and a lot of aspects have failed. And it started with the Modesto Police Department. And it started with the fact that they didnt follow up on evidence that showed Laci was alive the morning of December 24.
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI  Identifying inequities across Washtenaw County is easier thanks to a tool that tracks disparities in health and socio-economic factors based on where people live in the county.

Washtenaw County and the University of Michigans Poverty Solutions initiative have partnered to create an updated version of its Opportunity Index, which was unveiled April 29 at a virtual event hosted by the countys community and economic development office.

In 2015, the county launched the first version of the index, which has been used by county officials when considering ways to improve equity. The purpose of the Opportunity Index is to make information available for residents, community groups and policymakers to advocate for their causes.

Areas marked as high opportunity are more frequent in and around Ann Arbor, while the lowest opportunity areas are in Ypsilanti and rural townships. On the map, areas covered in dark blue have the highest access to opportunity, while dark red represent areas with the lowest access.

The index shows that U.S. 23 is the unofficial boundary between the Ann Arbor area and the Ypsilanti area, which divides Washtenaws urban core from east to west.

Privilege in Washtenaw County is divided by race as well as geography, Teresa Gillotti, director of the office of community and economic development, said.

Where we see more people of color, those areas match up very closely to our lower opportunity areas, Gillotti said.

Geographic patterns of racial and socio-economic segregation remain, which link both race and place to access to opportunity, according to the report.

The index uses Washtenaw Countys Census tracts to combine 16 indicators into the health, job access, economic well-being, education and community engagement areas of opportunity:

County leaders from across departments can use the index for grant-writing purposes, to guide decisions about where to invest resources and how to consider policy changes to advance equity.

I see this as a first step in us making more data driven decisions, said County Commissioner Justin Hodge, District 5. I would hope that we continue to have community engagement as we start to make decisions using the Opportunity Index.

I hope people continue to hold us accountable to doing this.

You can read the full report here to see where areas of high and low opportunity exist in Washtenaw County. Below are some of the disparities investigated throughout the report.

Pandemic exacerbated inequities

The Opportunity Index includes a page showing how the COVID-19 pandemic has exposed the disparities existing throughout the county. officials said.

The Washtenaw County Health Department has been tracking COVID-19 positive cases by race, age and gender, as well as geography. That data has been included in the opportunity index, allowing the county to examine which parts of its community have been disproportionately impacted by the virus.

There is a strong overlap in COVID-19 positive cases in areas that have low access to opportunity score on the index, the report shows.

The report shows the overlap is caused by a combination of concentration of essential workers in lower-income communities, existing health disparities for residents of color, inequities in access to health care, and distrust of the broader healthcare system due to historic institutional racism.

Quality of life

In eight of the countys 11 Census tracts with the lowest access to opportunity, people of color make up the majority of residents. All but one of the highest opportunity census tracts has a majority of white residents, the report found.

Racial inequity also appears throughout the county in life expectancy, with an 18-year difference in the average life span between residents in majority-Black parts of eastern Ypsilanti Township and majority-white parts of western Ypsilanti Township, according to the report.

Health insurance coverage is another aspect the report found has a large disparity between Washtenaw County communities.

Currently, 93% of Washtenaw County residents have health insurance. The countys all-time high, in 2016, was 95.6%, according to the report. However, several places across the county, but mainly in Ypsilanti, show coverage rates are only 77% to 85%.

Education

Education is also a key indicator of opportunity that was included in the report.

Children who live in and around Ypsilanti on average have lower access to education and training opportunities than kids from Ann Arbor, regardless of where they attend school, the report states.

The report shows a noticeable disparity in third-grade reading proficiency between Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti. Researchers said the difference can be the result of different levels of access to early education and learning that occurs in communities.

Adult educational attainment ranges from 93.8% of residents in the heart of downtown Ann Arbor, with at least an associates degree (the highest rate in the county), to 22.3% of residents on the south side of the city of Ypsilanti, the report found.

Residents in Ypsilanti Townships West Willow neighborhood have the lowest rate of adult educational attainment, with 20% having at least an associates degree, according to the index.

Criminal charges also see similar patterns. The Opportunity Index shows youth facing criminal charges are concentrated on the east side of the county. Once they enter Washtenaw Countys criminal justice system, Black teens stay longer than white teens with similar charges, the report found.

In order to begin solving the issue of inequality that exists throughout Washtenaw, the report states the county must equitably invest resources and remove barriers so that where you live does not impact your access to opportunity.

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MONROE COUNTY, MI  Twelve renters were displaced from their apartments and one person was injured Monday morning after a lit Tiki torch fell over and started a fire, police said.

Police and fire crews were called at 12:39 a.m. May 3, to the Newport Woods Apartments on Canterberry Lane in Berlin Township for a reported apartment on fire, according to Michigan State Police.

Emergency crews arrived to find flames coming from the exterior of the building as officers evacuated residents from the 12-unit apartment building, police said.

Fire crews were able to extinguish the blaze but not before is caused major damage to three apartments and additional smoke and water damage to the remaining apartments in the building, police said.

The fire is believed to have been stared when the Tiki torch, which was filled with lighter fluid, fell over, police said.

One resident suffered burns to his hands and was treated at the scene, police said.

The buildings tenants were displaced due to the extent of the damage. The American Red Cross is assisting the displaced residents, police said.

The fire is under investigation. Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact Michigan State Police Trooper Sgt. Sharon McDonald at 734-242-3500.

The Berlin Fire Department, Frenchtown Fire Department, Estral Beach Fire Department and Ash Township Fire Department assisted at the scene.

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GRAND BLANC, MI -- Amy Facchinello said she never wanted to be in the spotlight.

But here we are, she said at a recent Grand Blanc Board of Education meeting.

The trustee was thrust into the national spotlight when a Time Magazine article used her as an example of a growing number of QAnon conspiracy theorists that are infiltrating local politics.

A Grand Blanc senior, Lucas Hartwell, went before the board to raise questions about Facchinellos social media activities, which include posts showing her support for QAnon about the COVID-19 pandemic and George Floyds killing.

The Time Magazine article was published on April 16. The April 26 board meeting was the first opportunity Facchinello had to tell her side of the story.

She did not respond to requests for comments from Time, the article said.

I never solicited this attention. Many of the people in this community are aware that I was very politically active.  Its really no secret about my political leaning, Facchinello said at the April 26 board meeting. She did not respond to questions from MLIve-The Flint Journal.

Facchinello, 52, was a Republican elector in the 2020 election and worked with the Genesee County Republican Party.

That (political) activity is what made me get over 10,000 votes from the members of this community, said Facchinello, who got elected to the school board in November. They wanted a seat at the table, so I am the seat at the table for them.

Facchinello drew 10,070 votes, less than 500 behind the first-place finisher in the school board race for two seats among four candidates.

She said that students are being caught in the middle of the nations political polarization.

Despite that statement, Facchinello ran for the school board seat on a platform that included rejecting third-party actors trying to push their agenda on our students.

She specifically opposed the 1619 Project, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalism project by The New York Times that frames the countrys history with Black people and slavery at the center.

Hartwell and a group of Grand Blanc students and parents are planning to attempt a recall of Facchinello this summer when she becomes eligible, he said.

Under Facchinellos current term, she could be on the school board until 2026.

Because she was recently elected, Facchinello must hold office for six months until a recall can be attempted, Michigan law states.

I wasnt necessarily expecting an almost 100 percent positive response, Hartwell told MLive-The Flint Journal. People are ready to go and take action on this matter. A lot of those responses have been from educators in the community.

Despite the Time magazine story and outcry from students, Facchinello has no plans to resign.

She was elected to this position for a reason, Fachinello said.

As you can see, they are trying really hard to cancel me, she said. They would be canceling out the voices that voted for me.  I can assure you that all this has only reconfirmed my commitment to this position on the Grand Blanc school board.

A statement from a Grand Blanc Community Schools spokesperson to the Journal said the district has no comment on the matter since the process of electing board of education members is a matter decided by the voters of our community.

Facchinello received support from some public commenters at the meeting. Others expressed distain for the situation.

No other board members discussed her comments at the meeting.

Hartwell did not think very highly of Facchinellos response.

He thinks that the community would have voted differently if they were aware that she was a political extremist.

The only pre-election interview she participated in was a candidate submission roundup in the Grand Blanc View.

None of the instrumental beliefs of QAnon are based on fact or the slightest bit of truth. It is really upsetting, Hartwell said. When you look at education, those things shouldnt mix at all.

QAnon is a disproven internet conspiracy theory with a core falsehood that elite, Satan-worshipping pedophiles that run a child sex trafficking ring are trying to gain political control. Its supporters have spread false information about COVID-19, Black Lives Matter protests and the presidential election.

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GRAND RAPIDS, MI -- An anti-racism project aims to change peoples perception of the citys Southeast side through large-scale murals and programming for youth.

Called the 49507 Project, seven local artists of color will paint seven large-scale murals on prominent buildings in majority minority neighborhoods in the citys 49507 Zip code.

Students who participate in the project will learn about gentrification, housing discrimination and redlining and help develop the project.

The artists will ask those students, If you had art that reclaimed your neighborhood, what would that look like? and then, in part, shape their murals around those responses and those of other community members.

The students will perform spoken word poetry, as well, at the murals when they are unveiled.

The Diatribe, a spoken word poetry group, is spearheading the project. The Diatribe is also a nonprofit that facilitates after-school programs, creative writing workshops and more to raise awareness of social issues, create community change and empower young people to share their stories.

Across the nation, we continue to see social injustice against people of color, said Marcel Fable Price, executive director of The Diatribe.

Art is power. Listening is healing. We can truly provoke impactful changebut only if we listen to our community and understand their struggles, their pain points, and their dreams. We may not experience immediate change in this lifetime, but we must fight to reclaim the neighborhoodscommunitieswe breathe and live in.

Price was Grand Rapids first poet laureate of color.

Related: Grand Rapids outgoing poet laureate talks about using the post as a platform

The citys Southeast Side has long been associated with violent crime, and the 49507 ZIP code, specifically, had more children with elevated levels of lead in their blood than any other ZIP code in the state, according to testing done in 2015.

Located generally east of U.S. 131 and between Franklin and 28th streets, the 49507 ZIP code is also part of the citys Third Ward, which has the highest concentration of Black residents and lowest amount of public and private investments of the citys three wards.

The 49507 Project will take place over three years and, in addition to the mural paintings, includes an education program for youth and listening sessions with community stakeholders to help shape the murals.

The Diatribes Writing to Right Wrongs curriculum for students will take place in several school districts throughout West Michigan, according to a press release.

The Garfield Park Neighborhood Association and Grand Rapids Area Black Businesses has helped the Diatribe assemble Black and Brown community members, including business owners, advocates, pastors, elders and more, to attend the listening sessions so far that, with youth input, will help shape the murals.

We must bring out our neighbors and community stakeholders. We must listen to our young people, said Ericka Kyd Kane Thompson, a poet, spoken word artist and Diatribe teacher.

If community members are expecting to see nice artbe mistaken now. It will be disruptive, challenging but beautiful. We hope the project will further activate our fellow neighbors, shift power dynamics in historically under-resourced areas and more importantly, change narratives.

The murals will be located on the following buildings and businesses:

La Casa De La Cobija on 2355 Division Ave. S

Public Thread on 1405 Buchanan Ave. SW

Boost Mobile on 1221 Madison Ave. SE

40 Acres Headquarters on 703 Eastern Ave. SW

The South East Market on 1220 Kalamazoo Ave. SE

Grand Rapids Area Black Businesses on 2012 Eastern Ave. SE

The Old Goat on 2432 Eastern Ave. SE

The project is said to be by and for people of color, and is led by people of color, LGBTQ+ members and youth.

Organizations which helped make the project possible are the Steelcase Foundation, Frey Foundation, Spectrum Health, Grand Rapids Community Foundation, Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority, Wege Foundation, Garfield Park Neighborhoods Association, Carnevale, Fair Housing Center of West Michigan and Grand Rapids Area Black Businesses.

People can find out more about the project, as well as how to volunteer or support it with a monetary donation, at this link: TheDiatribe.org/the49507project/.

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ALLEGAN COUNTY, MI  A Holland man was sentenced to five years of probation April 19, after he hid a camera in a shared bathroom.

Chad Nicholas Overbeek, 38, was sentenced for capturing and distributing image of unclothed person, according to Michigan Department of Corrections records. He pleaded no contest Feb. 10 to the charge before Allegan County Circuit Judge Roberts Kengis.

He had a camera hidden in a nightlight inside a shared bathroom in his home, the Allegan County Sheriffs Office said.

A roommate found the camera and reported it to police. Overbeek was arrested Aug. 17, after his home and cloud data were searched, police said. The sheriffs Computer Crimes Unit and Michigan State Police Fifth Districts Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force investigated.

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PINCONNING, MI  A 16-year-old former Pinconning High School student was arrested Monday after posting a threat against a student that included a picture of a weapon, according to police.

Troopers with the Michigan State Police Tri-City Post were dispatched at approximately 9:45 a.m. on May 3 to Pinconning High School in Bay County to investigate threats made to a student by a former student, according to an MSP news release.

A preliminary investigation has revealed the teen posted a threat of bodily harm along with a picture of himself holding a weapon early Monday morning, police said.

When Pinconning High School learned about the threat, the building was immediately placed on lockdown and authorities were contacted, according to police.

Troopers identified the suspect and located him walking in the Pinconning area. The teen was arrested and lodged in a juvenile detention center. The weapon was also recovered.

The incident remains under investigation, police said.

Police were assisted by Bay County Sheriffs Office deputies in the investigation.

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BRIDGEPORT TWP., MI - A Cheboygan woman died in a motorcycle crash Sunday afternoon in Saginaw County, state police said.

Troopers responded to a crash report at 12:07 p.m. Sunday, May 2 to northbound Interstate 75, north of King Road, in Bridgeport Township, according to a Michigan State Police news release.

Witnesses reported the 42-year-old woman unresponsive and on the ground, police said.

Further investigation showed the motorcycle driver, a 55-year-old Cheboygan man, was headed north in the right lane when traffic began to slow.

He lost control of the motorcycle and ran it off the right side of the roadway, police said.

Paramedics transported the woman, whose name has not been released, to a local hospital where she died from injuries suffered in the crash.

The man suffered non-life threatening injuries and received treatment at a local hospital, police said.

Neither the man nor the woman had on a helmet, police said, and alcohol is not considered a factor in the crash.

Michigan State Police received assistance from Mobile Medical Response ambulance service, the Buena Vista police and fire departments, as well as the Bridgeport Fire Department. The state polices Third District Traffic Crash Reconstruction team also assisted at the scene.

The crash remains under investigation. Anyone with additional information on the incident may contact the Michigan State Police Tri-City Post by phone at 989-495-5555.

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Jaws of Life used to free 2 men after SUV hits tree in Thumb-area crash

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State Rep. Bryan Posthumus arrested on suspicion of drunk driving after rollover crash
WATERTOWN TWP., MI - Firefighters freed two men trapped in a crashed SUV on Saturday morning in Sanilac County, police said.

Officials responded to a report of a single-vehicle crash around 7 a.m. Saturday, May 1 near Miller and Maple Valley roads in Watertown Township, just south of Sandusky, said the Sanilac County Sheriffs Office in a news release.

A 2004 Mercury Mountaineer driven by a 29-year-old Sandusky man was headed west on Miller Road, police said. The car exited the roadway into a ditch and then crashed into a tree.

The Sandusky man and one passenger, a 28-year-old DeWitt man, could not exit the car on the own, police said, so firefighters pried open the car with the Jaws of Life to extricate the men.

Paramedics transported the men to McKenzie Memorial Hospital in Sandusky for treatment of their injuries, police said.

The Sanilac County Sheriffs Office received assistance at the scene from Sanilac EMS and the Sandusky Fire Department.

Alcohol was a factor in the crash, police said, and both men had on their seatbelts.

The crash remains under investigation.

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SAGINAW, MI  Job seekers in mid-Michigan, mark your calendars for these upcoming hiring events throughout the region.

There are employment opportunities in the Great Lakes Bay Region in health care, hospitality, retail and other sectors.

If youre looking for work, here are a few places to start:

A view of Amigo Mobility International Inc. headquarters in Bridgeport Township during the ongoing construction on Thursday, Nov. 19, 2020. (Kaytie Boomer | MLive.com)Kaytie Boomer | MLive.com

Coming Home virtual event

Discover Great Lakes Bay is hosting a virtual Coming Home event from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday, May 4.

Looking for an awesome career in the Great Lakes Bay Region? Discover your opportunity to connect with world class employers from the region and learn more about what makes the Great Lakes Bay Region a wonderful place to call home, reads an event description at discovergreatlakesbay.com.

The event will feature up to 30 regional employers from high-demand industries. Participating companies and organizations include Frankenmuth Insurance, city of Midland, Amigo Mobility, Covenant HealthCare, Magline Inc., Independent Bank, McLaren Bay Region, MidMichigan Health, SC Johnson, and Childrens Discovery Academy.

Click here to register for this virtual event.

A view of a sign displayed at the Saginaw Road entrance to MidMichigan Health in Midland on Wednesday, April 1, 2020.Kaytie Boomer | MLive.com

MidMichigan Health recruiting nurses

MidMichigan Health is hosting a recruitment fair for nurses who are interested in working in home care and home health from noon to 4 p.m. Friday, May 7, on the campus of MidMichigan Medical Center  Midland, 4000 Wellness Drive.

At MidMichigan, home care nurses have a unique opportunity to use their specialized knowledge and skills. They closely partner with patients to identify their goals, and collaborate with a team of physicians and providers to help patients achieve those goals, according to a MidMichigan news release.

A qualified candidate must have an associates degree in nursing, but a bachelors degree is preferred, be a registered nurse in the state of Michigan, and have a valid drivers license. Applicants are encouraged to bring copies of their resumes to the recruitment fair.

Click here to register for the event.

To learn more about employment opportunities with MidMichigan Health, visit www.midmichigan.org/careers.

People walk between stores at Birch Run Premium Outlets in Birch Run.David C. Bristow | MLive.com

Birch Run Premium Outlets holding virtual job fair to fill more than 50 jobs

More than 30 stores at Birch Run Premium Outlets are hiring to fill dozens of positions.

Birch Run Premium Outlets is partnering with retailers to fill more than 50 positions at stores within the Saginaw County shopping center, located off Interstate 75, about 10 miles south of Frankenmuth. A virtual hiring event is scheduled to begin Friday, May 7, according to a Birch Run Premium Outlets news release.

Retailers seeking to fill open positions include American Eagle Outfitters, Ann Taylor, Bath & Body Works, Claires, kate spade new york, Rally House, Under Armour and more. There are part-time and full-time job opportunities, including part-time sales associate, full-time sales associate, part-time floor supervisor and full-time store manager.

For a complete list of stores that are hiring, visit careers.simon.com/retailer-job-openings and select Birch Run Premium Outlets. See each retailers website for a complete list of open positions.

Job seekers may apply online or in person at the store of their choosing.

Birch Run Premium Outlets, 12240 S. Beyer Road, is comprised of more than 100 stores. Visit premiumoutlets.com/birchrun to learn more.

A view of the exterior at the Bavarian Inn located at 713 South Main Street in Frankenmuth on Thursday, Oct. 29, 2020. (Kaytie Boomer | MLive.com)Kaytie Boomer | MLive.com

Bavarian Inn offering on-the-spot interviews

The Bavarian Inn of Frankenmuth is hosting a job fair from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday, May 18, to fill a variety of positions at the Bavarian Inn Restaurant and Bavarian Inn Lodge.

This in-person event will take place at Bavarian Inn Lodge, 1 Covered Bridge Lane. Job seekers are invited to stop in at any time during the four-hour event for on-the-spot interviews. Applicants should bring a resume, if they have one, and identification, according to a Bavarian Inn news release. Face masks and social distancing are required.

Job openings at the restaurant and lodge include servers, cashiers, shuttle bus drivers, water slide attendants, bartenders, housekeepers, sales clerks, and line staff and managerial positions in various departments including culinary, marketing, front desk and maintenance.

For more information, visit www.bavarianinn.com/jobs.

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Childhood friends, neighbors, a pastor, mayor and sheriff asked a federal judge to grant pretrial release to a 40-year-old Michigan man charged with crimes related to the storming of the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6.

It remains unclear if their requests will be granted.

Following a nearly one-hour hearing Monday, May 3, U.S. District Judge Amy Berman Jackson in Washington said she wouldnt immediately rule on whether Karl Dresch of Calumet, a small town in Michigans Upper Peninsula, will be released from jail pending trial or resolution of his case.

A written ruling is forthcoming.

Dresch, the married father of a 13-year-old son, was arrested on Jan. 20 and has remained jailed without the possibility of bond ever since.

Related: UP man expressed anti-government sentiment on social media

Hes facing five felony charges, including: tampering with a witness and obstruction of an official proceeding, entering and remaining in the temporary residence of the president, violent entry or disorderly conduct in a restricted residence, disorderly conduct in the Capitol and parading, demonstrating or picketing in the Capitol.

The judge said the 400-plus Capitol rioters who are facing charges should be held to the exact same standards for detention as anyone else and noted a very large number have already been released on bond. Jackson also said the decision whether to release Dresch has nothing to do with his political views.

During the course of this nations history, millions of people with different political views, including many Republicans, did not attack Congress, did not organize a revolt, Jackson said. This is not about Mr. Dreschs politics.

Jackson is considering whether Dresch poses a threat to public safety or is a flight risk based on his actions before, during and after the Jan. 6 attack.

She summarized a number of letters submitted to the court, the majority in support of Dreschs pretrial release.

I acknowledge that Karl stepped over the line by going in, however, I just want to advise you I dont believe he is a dangerous man or a danger to the community, Houghton County Sheriff Brian J. McLean said in his letter to the court. Yes, there were weapons they found at his (home) in Calumet up here but nearly all homes her have weapons as we have a tremendous number of hunters and fisherman, as well as a long history of military volunteers and retirees.

Yet, gun violence is nearly nonexistent as the people are trained to respect the weapons for their intended use for sport.

The sheriff said he believes Dresch is strong in his beliefs like his well-respected, now-deceased father, Stephen Dresch, a scholar, investigator and one-time lawmaker who in 2005 helped the FBI thwart a potential terrorist attack, but not a violent terrorist.

The sheriff isnt the only prominent local official to submit a letter in support of Dresch. Hancock Mayor Paul LaBine did as well, acknowledging that Dresch has occasionally exercised rather poor judgement and a history of flaws but is not known to be violent, a flight risk or someone who would obstruct justice.

One childhood friend wrote that Dresch is not a threat to anyone, and theres not a malicious bone in his body, said another.

Image allegedly taken from Karl Dresch's Facebook account used as evidence by the FBI. The FBI says the image helps prove Dresch, a resident of Calumet, entered the U.S. Capitol Building without permission or authorization during the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrectionists attack on the U.S. government in Washington, D.C. (Courtesy U.S. District Court) Courtesy U.S. District Court

Related: Father of Karl Dresch helped FBI thwart possible terrorist act

The judge said shes heard a lot about what letter writers think the defendant would do or would not do.

A childhood friend wrote his opinion is Mr. Dresch, quote, got caught up in what happened on Jan. 6, Jackson said. This assessment is reported throughout the letters ... Another member of the community, a public school administrator, said, I truly believe that he got caught up in the emotions of the crowd. Its a common refrain.

The one question I have to look at is: is this just something that happened to the defendant?

Jackson said Dreschs social media posts, which are widely referenced as a factor in his eventual arrest, show that although some people got caught up in the heat of the moment and the presidents call to march down the street, Im not sure it can be said of this defendant is someone who suddenly found himself on Jan. 6 somewhere that he hadnt anticipated six weeks before.

The federal government in court filings argues there is evidence that Dresch expressed violent intent and plans to storm the Capitol through social media posts and other communications well before the Jan. 6 attack.

A review of this Facebook activity revealed Karl Dresch first mentioned the Jan. 6 certification date in social media posts dated Dec. 16. On Dec. 20, he posted, 7-4-1776 = 1-6-2021, with the intent, the FBI alleges, of equating the nations Independence Day to the eventual attack on the Capitol.

By Jan. 3, Karl Dresch posted about plans to attend outgoing President Trumps Washington D.C. rally with the comment: NO EXCUSES! NO RETREAT! NO SURRENDER! TAKE THE STREETS! TAKE BACK OUR COUNTRY! 1/6/2021=7/4/1776.

Investigators also draw a connection between ammo found in Dreschs backpack following the storming of the Capitol and images of Dresch wearing what appears to the be same Atlanta Braves backpack on Jan. 6.

Investigators say Dresch was photographed wearing an Atlanta Braves backpack on the day he and hundreds of others rioted and broke into the Capitol to disrupt the presidential certification by Congress following the loss by former President Donald Trump. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Blackwells court filing in response to the motion for Dreschs release also said police found a Jan. 5 receipt in the backpack that was from a Washington area gas station, linking the backpack to Dreschs Washington visit.

State police and the FBI conducted two searches of Dreschs home preceding and following his arrest during which they seized two 12-gauge shotguns, an older Russian rifle and a handgun. Because Dresch has a prior felony conviction, Jackson raised concerns that Dresch knowingly had possession of firearms.

Dreschs attorney, Jerry Ray Smith, Jr., said the weapons werent intended for use in an attack and several of the firearms previously belonged to Dreschs father. Smith said the firearms were previously stored in Dreschs home by his 78-year-old ailing mother.

Smith in a brief supporting his clients release contended the ammo-filled backpack is inconsequential and said Dresch was never photographed in Washington with a firearm.

Smith said Dresch, a laborer who often installs wood flooring, had to sell pro-Trump merchandise from his front porch in order to supplement his familys income and unemployment benefits throughout the coronavirus pandemic.

In addition to selling pro-Trump paraphernalia from the front porch of his home, Mr. Dresch also sells, for some reason, knapsacks with Atlanta Braves logos on them, Smith said. Indeed, photographs from the search of Mr. Dreschs house that have been turned over to undersigned counsel in discovery show that there was actually a small cache of such knapsacks at Mr. Dreschs house the day the search was conducted.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Blackwell agreed theres no evidence that Dresch broke any windows or committed any acts of violence or assault while in the Capitol.

She does point to his prior record, social media posts and other communications as well as a discovery of guns and ammo in his house, as reasons for his continued jailing.

Dresch previously faced felony charges following a 2013 police chase that began in Wisconsin and crossed over into Michigans Upper Peninsula exceeding speeds of 125 mph. Dresch ran several vehicles off the road before pulling over near a small town named Alpha, police said. He spent nearly two years in prison serving stints in Wisconsin and Michigan following convictions for those crimes.

Smith admitted it was a stupid and impulsive decision on Dreschs part but not indicative of whether he is a flight risk in this case.

Impulsive and reckless behavior is in itself dangerous when you have someone who has obvious disregard for the law, Blackwell responded. Again, turing back to the firearms and ammunition, who is possessing that against the law and who is making comments in recent history about law enforcement and his disrespect for them.

Eight men from Michigan have been charged for their alleged role in the Capitol riot. Five people died in connection with the riot, which temporarily delayed the certification of the 2020 presidential election.

Letters in support of Karl Dreschs pretrial release:

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The pain, anger and indignation that we feel every time we witness a crime of gender violence has to be kept alive in us so that we do not rest in our responsibility to protect, prevent and abolish this evil, as well as to do justice for all the victims, he said in a statement Sunday. Every day we continue working to create a society that values life, respects human dignity and rejects violence in all its forms. We have to fight this battle until we win it.
Michigan is getting nearly $6 billion in stimulus funds from the American Rescue Plan. The Michigan Restaurant and Lodging Association wants the state to spend $1 billion of that on the hospitality industry.

The group announced a proposal Monday calling on the state to use the funds to help restaurants make up for their pandemic losses.

Proposed forms of aid include incentives for people booking events in Michigan, property tax relief for businesses, rebates for safety upgrades like new HVAC systems and hiring bonuses for employees.

The $1.9 trillion stimulus plan passed in March recommends some of the money be used to help ailing industries, like hospitality.

RELATED: Long hours, health risks and ghost applicants lead to desperate staffing situations at Michigan restaurants

The intent of Congress and President Biden is unmistakably clear, said Justin Winslow, president and CEO of the MRLA, in a statement. The American Rescue Plan Act recognized that the hospitality industry has been disproportionately impacted by the pandemic and specifically crafted the bill to target state and local relief to devastated travel, tourism and hospitality professionals.

Michigans Vacc to Normal plan is good, Winslow said, but some of the vaccination benchmarks could be several months away.

About 50% of eligible adults in Michigan have gotten their first COVID-19 vaccine, but various restrictions wont loosen until the state hits 55%, 60%, 65% and 70%. In the meantime, the hospitality industry needs help to survive, Winslow said.

RELATED: Michigan reopening plan encourages business leaders, who say the sooner the better

Heres a look at the MRLAs proposal, which totals $974.5 million. Ultimately, it up to the state Legislature to decide how to allocate the funds.

$405 million: Relief from property taxes, unemployment insurance taxes, liquor license costs, food license costs and inspection costs for hospitality businesses.

$250 million: Money for restaurants to make up financial losses from the pandemic

$150 million: Reimbursements for restaurants, event spaces and banquets up to $10,000 for new HVAC systems to improve the air quality.

$100 million: A 15% credit for groups booking meetings and events.

$50 million: Hiring bonuses for hospitality employees hired or rehired since March 11.

$10 million: Funding to help people get certifications in the restaurant or hotel industry.

$5 million: COVID-19 safety trainings for all Michigan restaurants.

$2.5 million: A hospitality industry-specific job board to connect employers and employees.

$2 million: Programs to provide trainings and tools to future hospitality leaders.

To read the full proposal, click here.

The $250 million piece of the plan would be similar to the national Restaurant Revitalization Fund, which designates $28.6 billion in stimulus funds for restaurants and similar businesses. The application window for that program opened Monday, May 3  however, many think the funds will run out before all needs are met.

The $50 million for hiring bonuses would be a way to incentivize people to fill hospitality jobs  as some businesses have complained of a worker shortage in recent months. This plan would give $1,500 signing bonuses to full-time workers and $750 to part-time hires, although all bonuses would be spread over six months.

Under this plan, businesses could only pass along the hiring bonuses if they pay the employees 125% of the minimum wage or tipped minimum wage. That means employers would have to pay $12.07 an hour or $4.59 per hour to tipped workers to offer the signing bonus.

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A new proposal in the Michigan House would compel lawmakers and state officers to disclose their personal financial interests for the first time  but that information wouldnt be public until after they leave office, an arrangement that if signed into law, would diverge significantly from the 48 other states that currently require financial disclosure.

Michigan has long been an outlier when it comes to identifying and regulating potential financial conflicts of interest for elected officials. Its one of two states  and the only one with a full-time legislature  with no requirement for state public officials to disclose basic financial information, including income sources, business investments, gifts and travel compensation.

Without any legal requirement on financial disclosures, Michigan residents only know about potential conflicts of interest if their lawmakers choose to reveal them.

Related: 50 states of financial disclosure: How Michigan stacks up

Under legislation supported by House Speaker Jason Wentworth, R-Clare, and House Democratic Leader Donna Lasinski, D-Scio Township, lawmakers would be required to submit financial information for themselves and immediate family members  including income sources over $5,000, properties valued over $50,000 excluding their primary residence, and stocks, bonds and annuities valued at $10,000 or more  to a permanent legislative ethics committee in their chamber.

The House and Senate ethics committees would be an equal party split and feature alternating co-chairs under the proposal. Members selected by legislative leadership could enforce ethics and conflict of interest laws, issue advisory opinions and investigate complaints of lawmaker misconduct. As proposed, the committees would be exempt from the states public records laws.

Similarly, high-ranking state officers would have to disclose their financial information to the state Board of Ethics. But any information disclosed to the legislative committees or state board would remain secret until an elected official leaves office, unless either body determined an official violated state conflict of interest rules.

The specifics of the bills, first reported by Bridge Michigan, were described by supporters as a step forward in a state where meaningful changes to government transparency and ethics have long been debated, but never enacted. Others questioned how a financial disclosure policy without immediate disclosure would make any difference, and expressed concern the bills would give too much authority to an appointed committee whose operations would be shielded from public scrutiny.

If your hope is to preserve a culture of secrecy, this is a thoroughly elegant way to do it, said Rep. David LaGrand, a Grand Rapids Democrat who has long pushed for public financial disclosure.

A 2019 analysis by MLive of financial disclosure policies in all 50 states found that of the 48 states that currently require some form of asset disclosure, all but 15 post lawmakers responses in a searchable online database. Even in those states, members of the public seeking disclosure reports can obtain the documents via a public records request.

No state with an existing financial disclosure policy prevents members of the public from viewing sitting lawmakers disclosure filings.

Financial disclosure forms arent typically where egregious conflicts of interests are caught, but having them does set a tone of transparency, said John Wihbey, an assistant professor of journalism and media innovation at Northeastern University who has extensively studied financial disclosure laws in the U.S. Thats assuming theyre available in a timely manner for public consumption, he said.

The structure as proposed has the appearance of a smoke-filled back room, which is precisely the opposite image that you want to create in the imagination of the public, Wihbey said. He suggested partnering the legislative committees with an independent body or public official that could audit submissions might make it a more effective system.

Financial disclosure is a signal to the public that you are transparent...therefore the citizenry can have some trust that youll be making decisions in the public interest, he said. This kind of structure, I dont even know if its worth doing, because it doesnt send that signal. And I think that signal is actually more important than the material disclosure.

One big factor in whether any financial disclosure legislation gets to the governors desk is Senate Majority Leader Mike Shirkey, R-Clarklake, who has long expressed concerns about making lawmakers finances available to the public.

Initially, hes expressed openness to the plan backed by Wentworth and Lasinski, telling the political newsletter MIRS on Wednesday he believes the current transparency proposals on the table are moving in the right direction and could see action later this year.

Shirkey spokesperson Abby Walls said hes happy to entertain the legislation in the Senate if it comes over from the House, calling it a good start.

Gideon DAssandro, Wentworths spokesperson, said opening disclosures up to public purview once a legislator leaves office is a compromise that will help keep politicians honest in office and let the public hold the committee accountable with the benefit of hindsight.

Michigan has an honor system right now, and this proposal will create actual oversight with checks and balances on both the legislators and the watchdogs, he said.

The permanent legislative ethics committees that would be created under the plan are modeled after Congressional ethics panels and would help police member misconduct and promote high ethical standards in Legislature, said Zach Crim, Lasinskis spokesperson.

While Lasinski supports public financial disclosure for public officials, she and the Democratic Caucus are also pragmatists focused on getting meaningful results for the people of Michigan today, Crim said.

The unfortunate reality is that our Republican colleagues dont support public financial disclosure, he said. Faced with that reality, weve crafted a bipartisan compromise that ensures we can get meaningful, incremental reform through the Legislature and signed into law now, while continuing to fight for public disclosure now and in the future.

The latest financial disclosure proposal came as a surprise to LaGrand, who earlier this year reintroduced a bipartisan package with 63 cosponsors that would make financial disclosures public in line with practices currently employed by other states.

He criticized the plan supported by leadership as fake financial disclosure, likening it to a Trojan horse that cuts the press and public out of a process meant to bring greater transparency to Michigan politics. He also expressed concern that members of the legislative committee would serve at the pleasure of leadership and have a large amount of power over colleagues who have an incentive not to have conflicts of interest investigations go public.

I think that the arguments for doing real disclosure have gotten massively more compelling, LaGrand said. And so thats why its a shame to be in this position instead of working towards building a stronger democracy.

Related: Elected officials in Michigan would disclose financial records in new House bill

Without any specified rules about whats allowed, whats not and the extent of the proposed legislative committees power, its hard to say how effective the policy would be or what it would look like on the ground, said Simon Schuster, executive director of the Michigan Campaign Finance Network.

The legislation itself, while its better than the current state of financial disclosure, is essentially the lawmakers offering financial disclosure to one another, but not the public, he said. And beyond that, the legislation itself is somewhat of a black box.

Independent groups that have advocated for government transparency and ethics reforms are split on the House plan. It has buy-in from Voters Not Politicians, the group behind Michigans redistricting changes that has since refocused on government transparency issues.

In a statement, Voters Not Politicians Executive Director Nancy Wang said the package is a strong foundation to build from to get our state back on track so we can ensure that our lawmakers are working for us.

Lonnie Scott, executive director of the progressive group Progress Michigan, in a statement slammed the legislation as flawed financial disclosure with no teeth.

For years, weve heard the same thing from Lansing that theyd pass reforms, but this stuff doesnt pass the smell test, he said, calling for full financial disclosures with no black boxes, no carve-outs, and no treats for GOP leadership who just want to check a box so they can pretend they did something good.

Related: Michigan House leaders propose wide-ranging changes to government ethics laws

The legislation is part of a wide-ranging package aimed at modifying the states government transparency laws. Other efforts by the House include a plan to subject lawmakers, the governor and lieutenant governor to open records laws, add additional prohibitions on lawmakers voting on conflicts of interest and prevent exiting lawmakers from stepping through the revolving door into lobbying for two years.

Many of the proposed changes, such as the two-year prohibition on lawmakers becoming lobbyists, have been proposed but have never seen broad support in a legislative chamber.

In March, the House unanimously passed bills that would subject the Legislature and governor to public records laws. Similar Senate bills have cleared the Senate Oversight Committee but have not yet been taken up for a floor vote.

Wentworth also proposed and passed out of the House a joint resolution that would require a two-thirds vote on any bill taken up after November general elections in even years. Known as lame duck, this period often results in long session days and dozens of bills flying through the House and Senate with little time for review. That resolution is currently before the Senate Government Operations Committee.
Maybe youre a snowbird from Michigan who was vaccinated in Florida.

Or maybe you live in Michigan along the state border and get your vaccination in Ohio, Indiana or Wisconsin.

Or perhaps youre a Michigan resident attending college out of state and got your shots there.

Are you counted among Michigans vaccination numbers? Maybe. But maybe not.

Michigan does have agreements with some surrounding states to report vaccinations of Michigan residents that occur there, according to Lynn Sutfin, spokesman for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.

But it probably would behoove Michigan residents inoculated in another state to check with their primary-care physicians office to make sure that information gets properly recorded here.

If a health-care provider adds the persons immunization data in the Michigan Care Improvement Registry (MCIR, the Michigan system for recording vaccine information), it will be added to the doses administered on Michigans COVID-19 vaccine dashboard, Sutfin said.

This would require the individual who was vaccinated out-of-state to take their immunization record card to their health-care provider and the provider would be able to add it to the MCIR, she said.

Taking the time to do that isnt just about improving Michigans vaccination numbers. An even better motivation is making sure that an individuals MICR record is complete, in case the person loses their vaccination card and/or so the individuals doctor can easy look up if and when the person was vaccinated.

If a Michigan resident obtains a vaccine within Michigan, the entity administering the shot should be providing that information to MICR, Sutfin said.

Anybody worried whether their COVID vaccination was recorded with MICR can ask their primary-care physicians office or their local health department for a printout of their MICR vaccine record.

Providers are required to report vaccinations into Michigans registry, but you can check to be sure

More on MLive:

Half of Michigan adults are now vaccinated. The other half will be the hard part.

Long hours, health risks and ghost applicants lead to desperate staffing situations at Michigan restaurants

Michigan is now hospitalizing more people under 40 than those over 80 for COVID-19

Michiganders returning for second COVID-19 shot at above-average rates
Evangelist Patricia Koranteng formerly known as Nana Agradaa has made her debut in church after being baptized in a swimming pool a few days ago.

In the said video, Nana Agradaa refused to say a word but her mood and body gestures depicted that she is truly in a good mood and has indeed changed for the brighter side.

She could be seen waving her handkerchief while singing praise songs to God.

Since declaring her fate in public that she has changed from her sinful ways, the popular television show hostess has shown glimpses just to convince Ghanaians that her words are not far from the truth.

I know you still doubt her conversation, state your reasons below.

Watch the video below;

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Comedian DKB says he is letting things slide between him and Akuapem Poloo but has warned the actress never to come close to him or talk to him wherever she sees him.

Poloo on Thursday accused the comedian, born Derrick Kobina Bonney, of hoarding a GH4,000.00 donation to her by one Maa Alice.

After she was granted bail from jail and thanking Ghanaians for the support, she disclosed in an Instagram video that the above amount was sent to her through DKB but the money never got to her.

DKB, who denied knowledge about the money, filed a defamation complaint with the Ghana Police.

However, other reports captured the said Maa Alice for saying she didn't give any money to DKB, rather indicating Poloo misunderstood their conversation.

On Friday, DKB revealed that he was no longer pursuing the case because of the intervention of some personalities including gospel musician Sonnie Badu and the mother of Poloo.

However, he warned her never to cross path with him in anyway.

Seems you don't want my help so I back out. I want you to know I don't know you from anywhere. If you see me at a programme pass, I will also pass. Don't try to talk to me. Don't try, else I will file restraining order against you. Stay in your corner, I stay in my corner, he indicated.

DKB, who described Akuapem Poloo as ungrateful for not appreciating all he did for her, has unfollowed the actress on all social media platforms and has also blocked her on WhatsApp.

By Francis Addo
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The Peoples National Convention (PNC) is promising to increase employees salaries should it be voted into power in 2024.

The party has also assured to review the pension structure by reducing the retirement age from 60 to 50 years to give room for more youth to be employed easily.

These promises were contained in a statement issued by the party on Saturday, May 1, 2021, to mark the Workers Day celebration, indicating that a future PNC government shall ensure the salaries of workers are enough to meet their needs.

We are concerned about the pension scheme of workers. A PNC government will review the pension scheme and make it attractive, and equally, reduce the pension age from 60 to 50 to make way for a youthful working population.

Janet Asan Nabla, Secretary of PNC, signed the statement which acknowledged the efforts and commitment of Ghanaian workers during the difficult times brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic while lamenting the attendant job losses.

We are not oblivious of the difficult circumstances in which our workers are operating especially in the face of this pandemic, Covid-19. We acknowledge the loss of job in recent times, mainly due to Covid-19, portions of the statement read. Below is the full release:

HAPPY WORKERS' DAY

A worker is a creator and a great asset to every nation, to this end, PNC celebrates fellow hard-working countrymen and women whose activities serve as the ladder through which human dignity and creative excellence are expressed. We celebrate every worker on this May Day, from the man in the street, hawking, to the expertise in each of the levels of our economic architecture.

We are not oblivious of the difficult circumstances in which our workers are operating especially in the face of this pandemic, Covid-19. The sacrifices our health workers are making in confronting this deadly virus are remarkable, we applaud them. The salaries workers receive that hardly meet their financial obligations and the conditions in which they work; the absence of requisite tools to aid workers in their operations in both public and private enterprises. Yet, you the workers are pushing the wheels of this nation to grow.

We acknowledge the loss of jobs in recent times, mainly due to Covid-19, and the effort of the government to address the difficulty in getting jobs by our teaming youth. The Nation Builders Corps, Planting and Rearing for Food and Jobs, recruitment of teachers and nurses amongst few others are commendable acts by the government of His Excellency Nana Akufo Addo. We believe more could be done.

A September 2020 report of the World Bank titled 'Youth Employment Programs in Ghana: Options for Effective Policy Making and Implementation' reported that Ghana is faced with 12% youth unemployment and more than 50% underemployment, both higher than overall unemployment rates in Sub-Saharan African countries. The number of graduates produced every year across the tertiary institutions is alarming and that despite major investments by the government and private sector, this challenge will intensify if job opportunities remain limited.

A future PNC government shall ensure the salaries of workers are enough to meet their needs. We shall put in place policies to cut down on the import of goods that could be produced locally to create more jobs for Ghanaians whiles embarking on major value addition on our raw products such as cocoa, cashew, etc to further create employment in the country.

We are concerned about the pension scheme of workers. A PNC government will review the pension scheme and make it attractive, and equally, reduce the pension age from 60 to 50 to make way for a youthful working population. A younger working population makes a great nation.

We say 'Ayekooo' to our gallant workers.

PNC: Service with honesty.

-signed-

Janet Asana Nabla

General Secretary

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The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has announced that about GHS768 million has been credited to the accounts of some 6,916 clients of the 53 defunct Fund Management Companies, who signed up for the government's full bailout programme.

According to the Commission, actual payments also made under the Partial Bailout Programme as of March 31, 2021, amount to GHS995 million, representing 81% of total claims and 83% of the total corresponding partial bailout value.

This update comes months after the government announced a bailout package for clients of the 53 defunct Fund Management Companies (FMCs).

Speaking at a media briefing in Accra on Friday, April 30, 2021, Director-General of the SEC, Rev. Daniel Ogbarmey Tetteh explained that the full bailout programme has so far been executed in three phases.

Out of the total claimants who have signed up for the full Bailout Programme, a total amount of GHS 768.26 million has been paid as at the 31st of March 2021. This represents a total of 83% of total claimants paid out of total sign-ups done and 78% of the total value paid of examined claims. The number of claimants who have been fully settled under this programme amounts to a total of 6,916 clients as of the 31st of March 2021, he said.

Actual payments made under the Partial Bailout Programme as of the 31st of March 2021 amounts to GHS 995 million to 52,264 claimants. This represents 81% of total claimants and 83% of the total corresponding partial bailout value. The number of clients who have been fully settled under this programme amounts to a total of 42,945 claimants as at 31st March 2021, he added.

Reverend Daniel Ogbarmey Tetteh further noted that the Commission also is set to complete the asset management bailout programme, following the approval of GHS5.5 billion by Parliament.

This provision further demonstrates governments profound commitment to strengthen the Ghanaian securities market to realize its full potential as an essential driver for economic growth and development and making it an attractive investment hub for domestic and international observers, he said.

Licenses of 53 FMCs revoked in 2019

SEC in November 2019, revoked the licenses of 53 fund management companies for various infractions including their inability to pay clients their investments.

Some of the affected companies dragged SEC to court over the matter while some used the commissions internal dispute resolution mechanisms to demand the restoration of their licenses.

Government put measures in place to settle clients of the defunct companies but held on with payment of clients of the firms who had sued SEC.

Government subsequently announced a partial bailout package for clients of the defunct firms who dragged the SEC to court.

Validation of claims

As at the 31st March 2021, the SEC said, out of a total of 100,898 claims received against forty-seven (47) companies valued at GHS 11.70 billion, a total of 100,700 claims valued at GHS8.314 billion have so far been validated.

This means that an estimated 99.8% of the total claims filed have been validated with almost 30% found to be unwarranted.

Mr. Ogbarmey Tetteh further urged claimants who disagree with validated amounts to engage the agent of the SEC for further examination.

Update of liquidation orders

As of 31st March 2021, the courts had granted 37 liquidation orders to the Official Liquidator, out of the forty-seven (47) fund management companies with claims from investors after the revocation.

Virtual Creditor and Class meetings have been held by the Official Liquidator for clients of thirty-four (34) of these companies.

However, companies with liquidation orders yet to have Creditors & Class Meetings include Firstbanc Financial Services, Procap Finance Company, Strategic Hedge Capital Limited.

The remaining ten companies that have their liquidation petitions currently pending before the High Court for hearing are Apex Capital Partners Ltd, Beige Capital Asset Management Ltd., Blackshield Capital Management (formerly Gold Coast Fund Management Ltd)., Dowjays Investment Ltd., Frontline Capital Advisors Ltd., Kron Capital Ltd., Liberty Asset Management Ltd., Omega Capital Ltd., Universal Capital Mgt. Ltd. and Wealth Vision Financial Services Ltd.

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The TESCON in College of Health and Well-being, Kintampo has praised His Excellency the President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for the payment of fees of the local government scholarship beneficiary in their school and across the country.

This was Communicated in a press release, issued from the office of the TESCON President, Mr. Akwasi Owusu Frimpong.

"Also it is a manifestation of how faithful and committed he is to his words and beneficiaries of COHK deeply appreciate your support in alleviating the hardship on parents and students in the amidst of coronavirus pandemic" - a section of the statement read.

Below is the full press release;

TESCON COHK FRANTINITY IS GRATEFUL TO THE PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF GHANA HIS EXCELLENCY NANA ADDO FOR THE SUCCESSFUL PAYMENT OF FEES OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT SCHOLARSHIP BENEFICIARIES.

The elephant fraternity, college of health and well-being, Kintampo under BONO EAST REGIONAL Youth wing is grateful to the president of the Republic of Ghana His Excellency NANA ADDO, And the new patriotic party as a whole for the successful payment of fees of the local government scholarship beneficiaries in College of health and well-being, Kintampo and across the length and breadth of the tertiary institutions in the country.

Prior to the 2020 general election, many saw the institutionalization and decentralization of scholarship scheme to the District level as a political gimmick to facilitate His Excellency NANA ADDO and new patriotic party re-election as a whole.

This kind gesture and fulfillment of promise has entrusted confidence and hope in Ghanaians people and we are still hoping to see more of this happening.

Also, it is a manifestation of how faithful and committed he is to his words, and beneficiaries of COHK deeply appreciate your support in alleviating the hardship on parents and students amidst the coronavirus pandemic

We are much grateful to you Mr. President,

may Almighty God bless you and the entire leadership of the New Patriotic Party.

Thank you

......... Signed........

JONAS BAYOR

SECRETARY

0546717820/0500375518

FRIMPONG KWASI

PRESIDENT

0541689740
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The National Communications Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Sammy Gyamfi said it is unpardonable and unacceptable for Akufo-Addo government to take the country back to the dark days of dumsor that was completely resolved by former President John Dramani Mahama before exiting power.

He is asking government to stop looking for anything to blame and solve the dumsor problem.

Ghana since the start of the year has experienced several unannounced power outages including a nationwide blackout.

Speaking on the current dumsor, Sammy Gyamfi said President Akufo-Addo and his vice-president Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia should be blamed for the ongoing power outages.

The intermittent power outages (Dumsor) Ghanaians are currently experiencing is a direct product of the mismanagement of the power sub-sector by President Akufo- Addo and Dr. Bawumia, a post on the Facebook page of the NDC Communicator reads.

According to Sammy Gyamfi, former President John Dramani Mahama solved the age-long Dumsor problem he inherited from successive governments and handed over a stable power sub-sector to the current government.

He stressed that, it is therefore unpardonable and unacceptable for the Akufo-Addo government to take the country back to a place it should never be.

Below is the Facebook post from Sammy Gyamfi:

The intermittent power outages (Dumsor) Ghanaians are currently experiencing is a direct product of the mismanagement of the power sub-sector by President Akufo- Addo and Dr. Bawumia.

The visionary Nation Builder, H.E John Dramani Mahama solved the age-long Dumsor problem he inherited from successive governments and handed over a stable power sub-sector to the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government.

It is therefore unpardonable and unacceptable for this government to take us back to a place we should never have been again.

Businesses are suffering, and Ghanaians are suffering. And this will have dire consequences for livelihoods and the economy if the situation persists. Government must stop peddling baseless excuses and deception and fix this Dumsor mess now.

Sammy Gyamfi Esq.

[/FACEBOOK]
The woman made headlines in December after posting two videos describing a recent attempted kidnapping at a Michaels store in the city of Petaluma, part of the San Francisco Bay Area. She said two strangers had followed her and her two young children inside the store, made comments about the kids to someone on the phone and tried to grab them in the parking lot.
President Akufo-Addo has announced that Ghana will take delivery of 350,000 doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine from the COVAX facility on Tuesday, May 4, 2021.

This, according to the President, forms part of moves to vaccinate Ghana's entire adult population by the end of the year.

He was addressing a mini May Day celebration at the premises of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) in Accra last Saturday.

Indeed, we are receiving 350,000 more Astrazenca vaccines from the COVAX facility on Tuesday in addition to the first consignment of the 600,000 vaccines we received on the 24th of February 2021, he said.

President Akufo-Addo also disclosed that the government will, by mid-May, procure some 1.3 million doses of Sputnik V vaccines from Russia.

By 15th May, Government will also procure some 1.3 million Sputnik V vaccines. We are determined to vaccinate 20 million Ghanaians [i.e. the entire adult population] by the end of this year, and we remain on course to achieve this goal.

The government has faced challenges in procuring additional vaccines to meet the initial eight-week window given to persons who received the first jab, to get their second dose.

Health authorities recently issued a communique postponing the second phase of vaccination exercise for persons who have taken the first jab.

So far, more than 800.000 people have received their first jabs of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccines, with the Greater Accra Region having the highest number of inoculated persons. Government must speed up procurement of second batch of vaccines  Minority

The Minority in Parliament has asked the government to expedite the procurement of the second batch of COVID-19 vaccines for Ghanaians.

According to the group, the government has made very little attempt in securing the vaccines despite the budgetary allocation made for them.

Addressing the media, Ranking Member on the Health Committee in Parliament, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh said Ghanaians stand to lose their partial immunity against the disease with the delay in the second vaccination of the populace.

We would like to call on the government to expedite the action on vaccines as earlier promised. Ghanaians were informed that the first dose of COVID-19 vaccines will provide a high level of protection for about eight weeks by which time another consignment would have arrived to ensure the administering of second jabs for those who had received their first jab.

Today is the 2nd of May and as we speak, not an additional dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine has arrived, putting Ghanaians who have already received the first jab at risk of losing the partial immunity acquired through vaccination.
France is to begin emerging from its lockdown lite on Monday with the lifting of the 10km limit on travel. And if local health conditions allow, terraces, shops and cinemas will reopen on 19 May. President Emmanuel Macron is banking on a return to the French-style way of life but some health experts warn it's an irresponsible gamble that could usher in a fourth wave.

Macron laid out his four-stage timetable for easing Covid restrictions last Thursday. Between now and 30 June the French can look forward to eating out, shopping, going to cultural events and an end to the evening curfew.

There are however conditions to such freedom and French authorities will be able to activate 'emergency brakes' in areas where the virus is circulating at too high a rate.

Those emergency brakes can be applied in any town or departement that has recorded a 7-day incidence rate of more than 400 new cases per 100,000 people.

A sudden jump in rates and intense pressure on local health services could also slow down the reopening.

At present, eight departments have an incidence rate above 400.

That's Paris, several areas in the Ile-de-France region and the southern department of Bouches-du-Rhone which includes France's second-biggest city Marseille.

Booking a prime spot on a candle-lit terrace or a trip to the theatre may be premature.

'Risk of fourth wave'

What's more, some doctors and health experts believe it is simply too soon to be lifting health restrictions at all.

While the number of Covid infections and ICU admissions has dipped slightly in the last two weeks, the latest official data shows France still has more than 25,000 new cases per day (way above the target of 5,000 fixed in autumn 2020) and just under 6,000 patients in intensive care (double the target fixed by Macron at the end of 2020).

It's clearly too quick given what we're living through, said Jean-Francois Timsit, head of the intensive care unit at Bichat hospital in Paris. We can see the curve is going down but hospitals are saturated, it's absolutely terrifying.

Like many hospitals in Ile-de-France, Bichat remains under severe pressure with intensive care units at full occupancy rate. Timsit told France Inter radio there would be severe consequences on patients needing non-Covid medical care.

There is not the slightest space for anyone, neither those with Covid nor patients suffering from other pathologies, he said. Patients remain in intensive care at least three or four weeks when they're intubated [] So it's unthinkable that we'll have emptied the ICUs in a few days.

Djillali Annane, president of the union of intensive care doctors (SMR), agreed that the lifting of lockdown was premature. "It will clearly complicate the handling of the health crisis and run the risk of a fourth wave in the autumn, he told Le Monde. Allowing everyone to move around from 3 May will certainly not slow down contaminations, on the contrary."

The vaccination factor

For epidemiologist Karine Lacombe, head of infectious diseases at the Saint-Antoine hospital in Paris, Macron was taking another political gamble. The only way we can get away with it is if the vaccine programme is enlarged, she told Liberation daily.

Macron may well be taking a risky decision and whether it proves to be the right one will depend on the success of France's vaccination programme.

Painfully slow to take off, the vaccination roll out has gathered pace over the last few weeks. According to Covidtracker, more than 15 million people in France have now received a first jab (29.7 percent of the adult population) and more than 6 million, just over 12 percent of adults, are fully vaccinated.

From 15 June Covid jabs will be available to all adults.

Choice, not a gamble

In his interview last Thursday Macron said he had taken a balanced decision, "a choice, not a gamble", adding that there was "more to the life of the nation than curves on a chart".

But there is an element of risk nonetheless.

As Covid-19 seems to thrive in cool weather, it is to be hoped the weather in France improves, and that the variants in India and Brazil don't take a foothold here.

The president set himself a strategy a few weeks ago and he does not want to go back on it, said Dr. Timsit. I hope I'm wrong and that we will manage to vaccinate enough people, that everyone will be outside and there won't be a catastrophe. But we are nonetheless very worried.

Above all, he says the test, trace and isolate protocol has to be much better respected in France and the follow up of contact cases more drastic than at present. If we want the lifting of lockdown to be successful, we have to lose a bit of the sacred individual freedoms for a few weeks.
Minister for Education, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, has assured all Ghanaians that the Free Senior High School (FSHS) initiative introduced by the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo government has come to stay.

He explained that the introduction of the FSHS initiative is to ensure equity, improve accessibility, and also ease the burden of parents so that their children could have access to education whether they have money or not.

Again, he said, the government would continue to make available the right resources to ensure that all schools had what was required to support effective teaching and learning in all schools at all times irrespective of location.

Surprised visits

Dr. Adutwum gave the assurance when he paid a surprised visit to some selected schools in the Central Region on Friday to monitor the adherence to the COVID-19 protocols, implementation of the Free SHS Policy, and teaching, learning, and assessment.

The Minister who was on his way to the launching of the five-year strategic plan for the Takoradi Technical University visited Wesley Girls High School, Academy of Christ the King SHS, Holy Child School, and then to St. Augustines College.

He also used the occasion to donate five pianos to some selected basic schools in the Cape Coast Municipality.

Dr. Adutwum who was impressed with the activities in the schools commended the Cape Coast Education Directorate and the staff of the various schools for their hard work and assured them of the government's readiness to continue providing them with resources on time to enhance effective teaching and learning in their schools.

He also urged students to spend most of their time at school studying as well as engaging in activities that stood the chance of preparing them for a brighter future.

Remain focused

The Minister, who is also the Member of Parliament for Bosomtwe, charged students to remain focused at all time whiles in school and at home so they would be able to study hard for the good of their future.

Again, he urged the students to let their focus be on their studies which held the key to the development of the country so that the huge investment made in the education sector would not go to waste.

He assured the leadership of the various schools in the region that his Ministry would liaise with the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) to find a lasting solution to encroachment which was disturbing some schools in the region.

The Central Regional Director for Education, Mrs. Martha Owusu-Agyemang, said the major challenge confronting schools in the region was encroachment and appealed to the Minister to do something about the situation.

She assured the Minister that everything possible would be done to ensure that students in the region continue to work extra hard to maintain their good record in the nation's education sector.
Aminata Traoure survived a shipwreck in which she lost her baby daughter, her sister and her niece but she is determined to embark again on the illegal crossing to Europe.

For the 28-year-old from Ivory Coast, the perilous Mediterranean crossing from the North African nation of Tunisia is her only way to build a better future.

"Leaving Tunisia could ease my pain," said Traoure.

Her attempt ended in tragedy on March 9, when the rickety boat she had boarded capsized along with another in the Mediterranean, and she was flung into the waters with around 200 others.

Among the 39 who drowned was Sangare Fatim, her 15-month daughter.

Traoure said she would like to return home to Ivory Coast, 3,000 kilometres (2,000 miles) southwest across the sands of Sahara, but she can't afford it.

The price of the ticket -- plus a fine for staying three years illegally in Tunisia -- costs more than a crossing to Europe.

"I'll have to try again," she said.

The number risking the dangerous sea crossing from Tunisia is rising and for the first time the majority on the boats are not Tunisians.

During the first quarter of 2021, more than half of those arriving in Italy from Tunisia were mostly citizens from sub-Saharan African countries, according to the Tunisian rights organisation FTDES.

So far this year at least 453 migrants have died trying to reach Europe from North Africa, the International Organization for Migration says.

Around 100 of those had set off from Tunisia's port of Sfax.

'Hopes of their families'

"Despite the shipwrecks, despite our mourning families, we are always ready to risk our lives," said Prista Kone, 28, also from Ivory Coast.

So far this year at least 453 migrants have died trying to reach Europe from North African across the Mediterranean. By FETHI BELAID (AFP)

She attempted the crossing last year, but her boat was intercepted by Tunisian authorities.

Kone arrived in Tunisia in 2014 with a degree in business management and plans to pursue her studies.

But without money, she found work as a housekeeper, she said. She also discovered "the extent of racism" in Tunisia.

"My boss asked me not to touch her children because I am black!" Kone said. "When something was missing in the house, she accused me of stealing it".

On the streets "people called me 'monkey' and threw stones at me", she added.

It is a common story among her compatriots, packed into a small room in a working-class district in Sfax.

"If these people survived a shipwreck at noon, they would be ready to participate in another crossing at 1:00 pm," said Oumar Coulibaly, head of the association of Ivorians in Sfax.

"For them it is Europe or death!"

Coulibaly believes there are some 20,000 people from sub-Saharan nations in Tunisia, nearly two-thirds from Ivory Coast.

"They represent the hopes of their families," Coulibaly said. "Some came to continue their studies, to work, others were promised huge salaries, but... they were lied to".

Without employment permits, many work illegally and are grossly underpaid, all while facing regular abuse by police or citizens.

Summer surge ahead?

FTDES president Alaa Talbi said migrants who have come for work in Tunisia want to leave, because "neither the legal framework nor the cultural framework favours integration".

More than half of those who arrived in Italy from Tunisia last year came from other nations and were mostly citizens of sub-Saharan African countries. By FETHI BELAID (AFP)

Deals between Italy and Libya -- another key jumping off point for Europe -- have likewise "complicated departures", with more migrants trying to leave from Tunisia, he said.

Tunisia's economy has lurched from crisis to crisis since the country's 2011 revolution, most recently due to the coronavirus pandemic and lockdown measures.

With seas calmer in the looming summer months, many expect more Tunisians to risk the crossing too.

According to Catholic aid agency Caritas, people smugglers are luring migrants with tales that accommodation and jobs are now easy to find in Europe, claiming the virus has decimated the population.

Sozo Ange, a 22-year-old Ivorian mother, has been in Tunisia for two years.

For her, staying means -- at best -- life as a cleaning lady, earning enough to share a tiny room with several others and surviving off "soup from out-of-date turkey", she said.

"I'll leave here with my family, it is make or break," she said, breastfeeding her son.

Her husband, Inao Steave, 34, is employed in a bakery -- where he is worked harder than his Tunisian colleagues.

"I can't let my child grow up like this," he said. "We are aware of the risks, but we have no choice -- we will die or live in Europe!"
On Saturday 1st May 2021, Alhaji Saalim Bamba seized the opportunity of the Ramadan fast to meet with journalists of Zongo descent working in various media agencies across the Ashanti region.

In Brief, the meeting was to create a strong bond among the journalists and as well encourage them to inspire higher heights in the media landscape.

He encouraged them to do well and report issues that seek to build Zongo communities especially in an era where Zongo Development Fund -ZoDF has been a driving force in the development of our Zongos and Inner-cities.

He used the opportunity to Admonish the Muslim Journalists to build their capacity as it is a necessary element to excellence in their chosen profession and tap into various opportunities of government such as the ZoDF scholarship award scheme, Entrepreneurship support, etc.

Alhaji Saalim Bamba made presentations of items to the journalists for Ramadan as we approach the last ten days of the Holy month.

On the part of the journalists, they expressed gratitude for the opportunity given.

#RAMADAN2021
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(The Youth Imams Lamentations)

As Dr. Bawumia (VEEP) and his boss, President Akufo-Addo joined workers to celebrate International Labour Day today, 1st May 2021, what was on the table for the Ghanaian worker? What was the request from the leadership of the labour unions? Are we seeing and feeling the anger from the leadership of the labour unions and workers in general as usual of them on this day in the past?

Shouldnt the VEEP and his boss be explaining to us why they have introduced and in some cases increased threshold taxes which in the past they referred to as NUISANCE TAXES? Dont we as workers and as people deserve to know why our government now borrow consumption instead of borrowing to invest in social and economic infrastructure which in the long run will engineer economic growth and ultimately economic development?

Why do we borrow for consumption when the country can generate enough internal resources to take care of its people? Were we not told in the past that Ghana doesnt need to borrow because we have all it took to be self-reliant?

Today, as the nation is saddled with the excesses of covid-19, our government led by President Nana Addo and Dr. Bawunia have compounded the already worse situation of the ordinary Ghanaian, its workers, and businesses by increasing and introducing new taxes that have the propensity to cripple businesses and to reduce the purchasing power of the ordinary Ghanaian worker.

To make matters worse, as a people we cant complain any longer; our fundamental freedom of speech is silently curtailed and the fear of victimization has taken over the system. The vociferousness of the Ghanaian worker has fainted with fear.

In the midst of all these, there is an energy crisis without a schedule for domestic and industry players to plan their daily, weekly and monthly agenda. Our water bodies are more dangerous than poison because government officials and party executives have destroyed them through the galamsey which was outlawed by the same government. Ordinary people now queue in search of water in gutters while about half of our land is made up of water.

As the people feel the hardship, the government through their propaganda handles and some rented press keeps embellishing our story and situations and forcing us to swallow that as our real feelings.

What is more paradoxical than this? A situation where we sit on plenty while we go thirsty and hungry; a situation where our government has borrowed more but yet we the people cant see and feel the corresponding investments in the real sector; a situation where we are hungry yet we are told to feel satisfied; a situation where we have voices but cannot speak; a situation where we have genuine cases but cant express same.

These are the paradoxes we are currently dealing with as a people in Ghana.

Allah have mercy on Ghana.
In 2003, I wrote a feature article that was published on the Modern Ghana News Portal titled Bail and Sentencing Laws in Ghana Need Forward Thinking. I am prompted to revisit this issue in light of the custodial sentence imposed on Rosemond Brown alias Akuapem Poloo.

Akuapem Poloo was accused of publishing an obscene material which is a breach of section 280 of the Criminal Offence Act 1960 Act 29. The punishment for this offence is prescribed in Section 296 of the Criminal Procedures Act 1960 (Act 30)

In imposing the 90 day sentence on Akuapem Poloo, the Judge, Ms Christiana Cann, is quoted as saying that sentencing Akuapem Poloo must not only be punitive but must serve as a deterrent to society. Akuapem Poloo is being punished to set an example for other nudists in Ghana.

The sentence imposed on Akuapem Poloo has triggered a myriad of reactions with a Free Poloo Movement springing up in a short time.

The Akuapem Poloo case and some cases I have read in the media where custodial sentences have been imposed for minor offences and misdemeanour have brought to the fore the need for an urgent and comprehensive review of the sentencing laws and practices in Ghana. I believe it is time the Courts moved away from the overdependence on custodial sentences especially when dealing with minor and petty criminal offences where non-custodial sentencing options were or should be available to trial judges.

There are seven purposes for which a court may impose a sentence on a convict and it is important that sentences fulfil one or more of these purposes. The purposes are:

(a) To ensure that the offender is adequately punished for the offence;

(b) to prevent crime by deterring the offender and other persons from committing the same or similar offences;

(c) to protect the community from the offender;

(d) to promote the rehabilitation of the offender;

(e) to make the offender accountable for his or her actions;

(f) to denounce the conduct of the offender;

(g) to recognise the harm done to the victim of the crime and to the community.

In the case of Akuapem Poloo, Judge Christiana Cann went for the deterrence and recognition of the harm allegedly done to the child options.

The sentence imposed on Akuapem Poloo is predicated on the assumption that the harsher the punishment, the greater the deterrent effect. It is to deter not only the offender but also others who might consider breaking the law by committing the same or a similar crime.

Sentencing laws in Ghana

Sentencing in Ghana is regulated by the Criminal Offences Act 1960 (Act 29) and the Criminal Procedure Code 1960 (Act 30), as subsequently amended. Section 294 of Act 30 lists punishments that may be imposed on a person found guilty of a crime. They are: death, fine, imprisonment, payment of compensation, detention and liability to police supervision.

Section 299 of Act 30 provides that a court may order a person who is convicted of any offence to enter into his or her own recognizance, with or without sureties, for keeping the peace and being of good behaviour; and that, in default of such recognizance or sureties, he or she be imprisoned, in addition to the term, if any, of imprisonment to which he or she is sentenced, for any term not exceeding six months or exceeding the term for which he is liable to be imprisoned for the offence of which he is convicted or, if no term of imprisonment is specified for the offence which he is convicted, for a term not exceeding two months.

Section 318 of Act 30 provides that if an offender is sentenced to a fine only and imprisonment in default of payment of the fine, the Court may issue a warrant under section 317, to suspend the execution of the sentence of imprisonment and may release the offender on he or she executing a bond.

Section 354 of Act 30 gives the court powers to make probation orders.

Section 355 of Act 30 also states that a probation order may be between six months to three years from the date of the order.

Other sentencing options provided in Act 30 are fines and compensations.

From the foregoing it is obvious that there are various non-custodial options to be considered when sentencing an offender. With all these provisions for non-custodial sentencing available to judges, the issue is, why are prison sentences more common than all these other forms of punishments at the disposal of the presiding judges. Why for example was Akuapem Poloo given a custodial sentence when she was a prime candidate for rehabilitation? I did not, in the judgment, see any consideration of the principles of proportionality and parity. Did the sentence meet the seriousness or gravity of the offence?

In my view, there are two main reasons for this predominance of custodial sentences imposed by the courts in Ghana. The first is the inherent problems in Acts 29 and 30.

Section 296 of Act 30 sets out the general rules of punishment.

Subsection 296 (5) of Act 30 provides that a person convicted of a crime under any of the following sections of Act 29, that is to say, sections 124, 128, 131, 138, 140, 145, 152, 154, 158, 160, 165, 239, 252, 253 and 260 shall be liable to imprisonment for a term not exceeding twenty-five years.

It follows from the above that a higher proportion of offence provide for custodial sentences. [Do these provisions constitute a higher proportion of offence provisions?]

The second is that judges are guided by various decisions of the higher courts insisting on custodial sentences. These decisions are then followed by trial courts which are invariably the lower courts in the hierarchy of courts. In Kwashie v the Republic [1971] 1GLR488 at p.499, the Court of Appeal, Coram Azu Crabbe, Anin and Archer JJA held, in dismissing an appeal against sentence, as follows: It is trite law that the question of sentence is within the discretion of the trial court or Judge, except where the offence provides expressly its own penalty.

(1) when a trial judge is imposing a sentence on a convicted person there is no obligation on him to give reasons for the sentence that he imposes.

(2)When a court decides to impose a deterrent sentence the value of the subject matter of the charge and the good record of the accused become irrelevant.

(3) In determining a sentence, it is proper for a court to consider on the one hand the social or official position of the offender and on the other that the offence may be aggravated by reason of such position.

In The Republic v Adu-Boahen, [1972] GLR 70-78, the Court said if a court finds an offence to be grave, it must not only impose a punitive sentence, but also a deterrent or exemplary one so as to indicate the disapproval of society of that offence. Once a court decides to impose a deterrent sentence, the good record of the accused is irrelevant. See also cases decided by the Supreme Court like Owusu Banahene v The Republic (J3/02/2019); Joel Mejia Duarte v The Republic (J3/8/2016).

The courts seem to follow these judgments.

Way Forward

It is important for courts to try and reduce the disparities in sentencing and thereby enhance public confidence in the criminal justice system while at the same time protecting the public from offenders.

While the law has options for probation, it is hardly used in sentencing in Ghana. The courts should consider all the options provided by the law, probation, fines, compensation etc and in my view, where the option of a non-custodial sentence is available, a custodial sentence should be reserved for a case in which the objectives of sentencing cannot be met through a non-custodial sentence. It is my view that a court must not impose a sentence of imprisonment on a defendant unless the court decides that the seriousness of the offence is such that the only penalty that can be justified is imprisonment or it is required for the purpose of protecting the community. Courts use the parole system for custodial sentences. In many countries, when a custodial sentence is imposed there is also an option to provide for a non-parole period. This should be part of the law in Ghana so that a non parole period is set at sentencing.

In my opinion we need an overhaul of sentencing law and practice in Ghana and in some cases amendments to the law.

The review of the law must give serious consideration to Community Service Orders. The advantages of this include lower administrative costs than other custodial sentences; prevention of disruption to offenders family and protection of the self-esteem of offenders. Community Service Orders should be available as a general penalty rather than as a strict alternative to imprisonment.

The review of the law must also look at the practice of suspended sentences and make it available not only when imprisonment is the result of inability to pay a fine. If the court sentences an offender to imprisonment, it will then decide if there is good reason to suspend the sentence. When a sentence of imprisonment is suspended, the offender signs a bond (which is an agreement under which he or she promises to be of good behaviour for a set period of time and to comply with all the conditions set out in the bond). He or she is then released, usually under the supervision of a Community Corrections Officer.

There are number of benefits that will be gained by reform of the law to make available other non-custodial sentencing options. A major benefit will be the decongestion of the prisons in Ghana. It is my hope that some move towards reform of the law would be undertaken.

There are number of benefits that will be gained by reform of the law to make available other non-custodial sentencing options. A major benefit will be the decongestion of the prisons in Ghana.

A prison in Ghana, built to accommodate 700 people, now houses approximately 4000 inmates almost six times the number of people intended. All of the prisons in Ghana combined should house no more than 8000 people and currently, they accommodate more than 14,000 inmates (Amnesty International, 2012).

Finally. we need to engage in serious discussion on the death penalty with a view to removing it from the statute books.

Ebenezer Banful

May 2021
The Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has urged the Zongo community to be inspired by Tafsir, one of the oldest methods of teaching and learning, to prioritise education in the Zongos.

The Tafsir is the process of breaking down and interpreting complex texts of the Holy Quran for clear understanding, and this method of teaching and learning has existed since the advent of Islam.

The Vice President attended one of such events over the weekend when he joined the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu for the closing session of the Chief Imam's annual Ramadan Tafsir.

Addressing fellow Muslims at the gathering, Dr. Bawumia said Tafsir, which was used in the olden days to provide information and education, underlines the importance of seeking knowledge, as directed by Prophet Muhammad, and urged members of the Zongo community, particularly the youth, to be inspired by that and take education more seriously.

"The Tafseer, is a forum for spreading and seeking knowledge and it is in line with the important call by The Prophet Muhammad S.A.W. for education to be taken seriously. Beyond listening to the Tafseer, it is important for us, to continue to take education seriously in order to transform our communities," Dr. Bawumia advised.

"In today's competitive and technological world, seeking education should be a priority for all. It is a right and a must for all, especially the young ones."

Dr. Bawumia commended the National Chief Imam and other clerics for their commitments to the promotion of education and urged the young generation to emulate them

"If we look at what the National Chief Imam and other Sheikhs have done and continue to do to promote education within Zongos, the young ones, cannot do otherwise. If our Sheikhs, even at their advanced age, continue to dream about building schools and generally about education, the young ones have no reason not to prioritise education today."

"We are beneficiaries of the knowledge of our Sheikhs today because they took their education seriously yesterday. Let us also take education seriously today so others will also benefit from it tomorrow."
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The Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, says contrary to pessimistic views that the introduction of the Free Senior High School would compromise quality education, data from WASCEE result released by the West African Examinations Council proves otherwise.

Speaking at the closing session of the National Chief Imam's annual Ramadan lectures (Tafsir) in Accra, Dr. Bawumia spoke about where government's commitment to promoting quality education, indicating that the remarkable record of the first batch of beneficiaries of Free SHS among four West African countries, proved that government has not compromised quality education.

"When the Akufo-Addo government introduced the Free SHS policy, some people opposed it and said quality education would be compromised. But the 2020 West Africa Senior High School Examination shows that if anything, the free senior high school has improved the quality of education in Ghana."

"The WAEC with countries like Sierra Leone, Gambia, Nigeria, Ghana; the results show that of the total number of students who took the exam, there was a total number of 465 who got A in all their 8 subjects. Of the 465 in all these countries, 411 came from Ghana. The other 54 came from Nigeria but Nigerian students were 70% of all the students who took the exams but Ghana got 411 8As and they (Nigeria) got 54 8As."

"That tells you the quality that we have produced. We should not underestimate what we are capable of and we should not underestimate what we are capable of."

"Free SHS is helping our students and of course helping our parents as well because they dont have to pay."

Dr. Bawumia urged all, particularly members of the Zongo community and other deprived communities to seize the equal opportunity and access to education the Akufo-Addo government has provided.
GrassRoots Hub, an SDG Innovation and Social Impact Lab in Sunyani-Bono Region, organized its 2nd Stakeholders Consultative Meeting on Friday 30th April 2021.

The meeting, held at the GrassRoots Hub Annex-GNAT Hall, was to engage various stakeholders following their involvement in the Ecosystem System Mapping to dialogue and create a strong support base to promote entrepreneurship and digital skills training in Bono region.

The event was attended by over 40 stakeholders is part of GrassRoots Hub partnership program with Ghana Tech Lab under the Pathways to Sustainable Employment (PaSE) project, funded by the MasterCard Foundation under its Young Africa Works (YAW) initiative which seeks to create 30 million jobs in Africa by 2030.

In a keynote address delivered by Mbo B. Samuel on behalf of the Bono Regional Coordinating Council (RCC), Hon. Justina Owusu Banahene (Awo), urged all stakeholders to support the initiative to position Sunyani among digital business and economic cities in Ghana.

At the end of the meeting, various commitments were made by stakeholders expected to be implemented to create jobs and promote economic growth through the digital media space.
The Saturday night shooting occurred around 8 p.m. at the Duck Creek Kitchen + Bar at the Radisson Hotel in Ashwaubenon. The hotel is connected to the Oneida Casino. About 50 people were in the restaurant at the time of the shooting and several hundred were in the casino.
Soon after political independence, the next task for the founding fathers of the African states was to embark aggressively and vigorously on nation-building policies and programmers to rid the continent of any further exploitation of its natural resource by their colonial masters. Certainly, they were also not oblivious of the fact that political independence without economic emancipation will thwart their struggles for nation-building.

Indeed, in the modern drama of nation-building Africans must look up for examples of nationalistic, patriotic, selfless and dedicated political leaders who are service-oriented to make a break-through in the agricultural and industrial revolution in their respective countries to enhance their economic freedom and subsequently rid their citizens of pervasive abject poverty, ignorance, and illiteracy.

The attainment of this objective or goal however resides in the sagacious use of the building blocks of nation-building. The writer considers the following factors, among others, as the BUILDING BLOCKS of nation-building:

(1) Clean and good governance.

(2) Good quality education.

(3) High employment rate.

(4) Social harmony and cohesion.

(5) Observance of work ethics.

(6) Good delivery systems.

(7) Status of the national economy within the context of the global economy.

(8) An efficient and effective tax collection regime.

(9) National food security.

(10) Existence of law and order.

(11) A strong, efficient, and effective national security apparatus.

(12) High savings rate.

(13) Behavior of the citizens or nationals.

(14) Wise use of countrys national resources.

The big question now begging for an answer is:

How many African political leaders are efficiently and effectively using these building blocks for nation-building in their countries? Sadly, it appears, however, that the plight of nation-building in Africa is mirrored in the negative attitudes of its political leaders who have allowed certain phenomena to take center stage in their struggles and efforts at nation-building on the continent. Examples include;

pervasive high rate of corruption.

Gross indiscipline in society.

The co-existence of national interest and excessive personal greed, selfishness and shameless affluence exhibition by political leaders and appointees and other public officers,

An interplay of these vices/phenomena breeds a potent and insidious evil, which gradually easily and surely erode the moral fabric of society and consequently makes nation-building as difficult as it is for an expert swimmer to swim upstream in a swift current.

Indeed, the failure of Africas leaders to make the rightful use of the building blocks has been the root cause of abject poverty, ignorance, illiteracy, citizens apathy, and social vices in their countries. Essentially, a government's core mandate is to formulate and implement state policies and programmes that will satisfy the conflicting interests and competing for social and economic demands of the citizenry. The ability to do this in an open and transparent manner constitutes good governance.

CLEAN AND GOOD GOVERNANCE

This building block implies that the government and its political appointees must not be corrupt, because if they are, it will not be possible for them to fight corruption, because a thief should not be expected to arrest a fellow thief.

The harmful effects of corruption on the African continent are crystal clear and need not be over-emphasized. African political leaders should, therefore, as much as possible, avoid this insidious cankerworm which is the greatest threat to good governance.

STATUS OF COUNTRYS ECONOMY

Most African countries have virtually become neocolonialist states. Indeed, neocolonialism has become Africas economic monster and if not fought and vanquished, economic independence in Africa will be difficult to achieve.

The status of the national economy within the global economic spectrum is a critical factor in nation-building. For Africa to take its rightful place in the global economic arena, its political leaders must strive to make the continent a self-made one by taking control of their economies, and cease being obligate parasites on the so-called developed economies. These economies equally need Africa because they also depend very must on the continent's enormous and rich natural resources to further better develop their economies.

In this regard, when entering into trade agreements with them, a WIN-WIN situation must be sought, in lieu of tele guidance of their economies from afar by foreign economic power blocks and financial institutions. Import-oriented economies are not suitable for nation-building since the enormous foreign reserves involved will not be available for national developments.

Indeed, Africas political leaders should watch out for trade and financial policies that are designed to further impoverish their countries and reject them outright.

GOOD QUALITY EDUCATION

Education, being the basis of human capital development, must be of high quality in terms of knowledge and skills and be competitive with others globally, in both theory and practice. These qualities and attributes are essential ingredients in transforming the countrys other production factors into goods and services for the nations economic development.

SOCIAL HARMONY AND COHESION

The absence of this building block results in social unrest, chaos, mistrust, and suspicion among the citizenry. It becomes difficult to harness the cooperative efforts of the various factions of the society for nation-building and development.

OBSERVANCE OF WORK ETHICS

The observance of work ethics results in high productivity with a corresponding high Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Punctuality to work and working the full working hours of the day, jealous protection of government property, an exhibition of honesty, integrity, respect for authority, high discipline, high task-orientation, goal-directed behaviors, and willingness to work for the attainment of the goals and objectives of national policies and programmes, among others, constitute observance of work ethics. Such attributes profoundly enhance nation-building. The opposite of these attributes constitutes nation-wrecking.

The government on its part must also realize that the state institutions, being implementers of its policies and programmes, constitute the ACTION PART of the government. They must therefore be adequately strengthened financially and logistically to carry out their constitutional mandates for nation-building.

GOOD DELIVERY SYSTEMS

This building block ensures that the right things, in the right quantities, are sent to the right places, at the right time to enhance the timely and successful implementation of government policies and programmes. The manifestation of this block has made the Planting for food and jobs policy of the Akufo Addo administration success and deserves commendation.

HIGH SAVINGS RATE

An imports-oriented economy is detrimental to nation-building. African countries should endeavor to build export-driven economics through an agricultural and industrial revolution in their countries to earn more foreign exchange. Indeed, the survival needs of their countries should be produced locally to satisfy the food demands of the citizenry, especially where they have comparative advantage in producing such survival needs as rice, sugar, meat, etc. Such a revolution will save foreign exchange and also create employment in their countries.

HIGH EMPLOYMENT RATE

A country with a high employment rate enjoys such benefits, among other, as: -

Less corruption, since the socio-economic needs of the citizens are satisfied.

Employment leads to the production of goods and services to contribute to the countrys G.D.P

The Countrys security is enhanced due to the absence of, or low rate of, such social vices as armed- robbery and other criminal activities.

AN EFFICIENT AND EFFECTIVE TASK COLLECTION REGIME

This factor ensures that adequate funds are raked into the national exchequer to propel the countrys development and growth. Indeed, money is to the nation as blood is to the body without which dearth occurs.

NATIONAL FOOD SECURITY

In human life, survival needs are very acritical, without which there will be no life. The availability of food, quantitatively and qualitatively, will build healthy citizens, and hence a healthy nation for productive activities for nation-building and development. Food security will also reduce the use of the countrys foreign exchange for importing food items.

A STRONG EFFICIENT, AND EFFECTIVE NATIONAL SECURITY APPARATUS.

A country without a security system is like a body without an immune system. It will be vulnerable to both internal and external attacks in diverse forms that can destroy it. Hence, its relevance.

BEHAVIOR OF THE CITIZENS OR NATIONALS.

The attainment of national goals and objectives of a governments policies and programmers depends on this building block. This factor affects both the governors and the governed. If the governed are not treated in such a manner that will influence them to develop goal-directed behaviours, and be willing to do things that will implement government policies and programmers, there will be little or no achievements.

Indeed, the behavior of the governed will contribute profoundly to the choice of a leadership style that the government should adopt to contain the situation. Conversely, the governor should also not behave in a way that will create mistrust and suspicion between him and the governed to develop counter-productive behaviors.

A balance between the two is the key to the problem to allow for successful nation-building. In this regard, Africas political leaders should endeavor hard to avoid using malicious political propaganda to fool their citizens, but instead, establish faith in the citizens for nation-building.

Today, African should look for political leaders who are service-oriented, selfless, patriotic, nationalistic, and dedicated for nation-building to rid their citizens of ignorance, pervasive abject poverty, and illiteracy.

Indeed, Africa can only take its rightful place in the global village and propel development in their countries if their governments have within the members who have analytic, creative, imaginative, innovative, and interpretative minds to contribute towards nation-building. Without the aforementioned attributes, nation-building in African countries will be as difficult as it is for an expert swimmer to swim upstream in a swift current.

Doubtless, if Africas political leaders would develop the right attitudes and abilities that will enhance the efficient and effective use of the building blocks specified in this article, and implement their political manifestos accordingly with passion, purpose and perseverance, Africa can become a HIGHLY INDUSTRALISED PROSPEROUS CONTINENT(HIPC) devoid of HIGHLY INDEBTED POOR COUNTRIES (HIPC)

By: W. Z. NAMBIE

(Senior Citizen  LAMBUSSIE)

UPPER WEST REGION - GHANA
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Education think-tank, Africa Education Watch has urged the Ghana Education Service (GES) to maintain the academic standards that the Achimota Preparatory School is noted for.

This admonishment follows GES takeover of the school after a court order.

The Executive Director of the think tank, Kofi Asare, said although the school will now be an institution providing free basic education, thereby granting access to more children in the community, the quality of teaching and learning should not be compromised.

The Achimota Preparatory School was, last Friday, locked up by GES officials after a court directive for it to take over the management of the school.

Speaking to Citi News, Kofi Asare said: The concern of all stakeholders, especially parents, since last year when the tussle began, was the likelihood of the quality of academic performance dwindling in the event of them taking the school back, which is a fact. So the GES must give us the assurance that it is not only taking over the school and making it a free education school but is taking over the school and maintaining the quality it met.

Mr. Asare said the GES must assure all stakeholders that the academic quality in the school will be sustained.

The parents and the PTA in the school are focused on sustaining the quality they have been able to maintain over the past decades, and it will be in the best interest of the children and the promoters of the school even as GES takes over management of the school.

Background

The ruling by the court was given on March 2020, according to a statement from the GES.

The Service explained that the land and building being occupied by the Achimota Preparatory School formed part of Achimota School Land per the Achimota School Ordinance No. 7 & 1948.

The preparatory school was established by some expatriates during the colonial era and for their children, staff of Achimota School and the University College of the Gold Coast.

Over time, the expatriates left the management of the school in the hands of locals who, from time to time, form a management committee to run the school as a private institution. APS has been operating that model to date.

The GES explained that sometime in the 1960s, Achimota School granted a lease to APS to allow it to operate from the premises, which expired in 1970.

In January 2020, amid the contentions, the Parent-Teacher Association of the Achimota Preparatory School said it would resist attempts by the GES to take over the school.

It has also accused the GES of acting in bad faith in the matter.

citinewsroom
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The Ashanti Regional Minister, Simon Osei Mensah, has reiterated governments commitment to improving the welfare of Ghanaian workers.

He said workers were the movers of the Ghanaian economy and the government will continue to work closely with organized labour to fashion out mutually beneficial strategies that would aid the agenda of improving the lives of all Ghanaians.

Mr. Osei-Mensah stated this at the 2021 May Day celebration organized at the Regional Coordinating Council in Kumasi.

This year's May Day celebration was on the theme Economic recovery in an era of COVID-19: The role of social partners.

The Minister said, as partners in the national development, trade unions and for that matter, workers had a crucial role to play in national economic recovery efforts, especially in this era of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mr. Osei-Mensah stressed that the government would always work in partnership with organized labour to achieve the desired goal of equal opportunities and improvement in the lives of every Ghanaian, including all categories of workers.

He commended Ghanaian workers for their continued dedication and sacrifices towards the building of the Ghanaian economy and asked them to continue to work hard to move the economy from its present situation for the betterment of all.

The Minister reminded them of the effect of the coronavirus pandemic and said the government would do all it could to reach mutually acceptable grounds in respect of their welfare and social lives.

Mr. Emmanuel Dankwa, Assistant Ashanti Regional Secretary of the TUC, mentioned pensions, poor housing, delays in negotiations for national daily minimum wage and base pay for public sector workers, the galamsey menace and its effect on the economy and threats of import restrictions on Ghana's cocoa, among other things, as some concerns facing Ghanaian workers.

He said organized labour was ready to play its role in the collective effort towards national economic recovery and stressed the need for government and organized labour to work together in the spirit of cooperation and partnership.

Mr. Dankwa urged the government not to ignore the social aspects of the country's economic recovery plan and stressed the need for the government to pay special attention to social protection for the aged, children, people with disability and basic income grants for the vulnerable and people above 65 years without pension.

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Vice President Dr Alhaji Mahamudu Bawumia says the quality of Ghana's secondary level education has not been been compromised in any way by the implementation of the Free Senior High School (FSHS) Policy.

This has proven wrong the contrary views projected by some critics ahead of the introduction of the policy in 2017.

He said data released by the West African Examination Council in its 2020 West Africa Senior High School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) showed Ghanaian students who were beneficiaries of the FSHS Policy scored the highest number of 'A's in all eight subjects.

For instance, he explained, out of the 465 students who scored 'A's in all eight subjects, there were 411 Ghanaian students who were part of the first batch of the FSHS Policy.

There were also students from Nigeria, Sierra Leone and the Gambia who took part in the 2020 WASSCE, with Nigeria presenting 70 per cent of the total number of candidates.

However, only 54 of them scored 'A's in all the eight subjects.

"That tells you the quality we have produced. We should not underestimate what we are capable of doing," Dr Bawumia noted.

Vice President Bawumia made these analyses and comparisons when addressing the closing session of the 2021 Ramadan Fatsir, organised by the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Dr Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, at the Central Mosque in Accra, over the weekend.

The annual Ramadan Fatsir is an old-age Islamic tradition, which provides the platform to break down and interpret complex texts of the Holy Quran for clearer understanding.

Dr Bawumia, a staunch Muslim, who was the special guest for the occasion, entreated Muslim youth to in addition listening to the Qur'anic interpretation, prioritise education by taking advantage of the FSHS Policy to acquire knowledge and skills for a brighter future.

"Beyond listening to the Fatsir, it is important for us to continue taking our education seriously in order to transform our country," the Vice President advised.

"Today's competition and technological world, seeking education should be a priority for all, especially the young ones."

Vice President Bawumia lauded the National Chief Imam and other Muslim clerics for their commitment towards promoting education among Muslim youth.

"We are beneficiaries of the knowledge of our Sheikhs today because we took education seriously, and so let's also take education seriously so that we can also benefit from it tomorrow," Dr Bawumia stated

GNA
The Ghana Police Service has warned it will pursue any organisation that flouts the COVID-19 safety protocols.

This comes after a video, allegedly showing members of the Christ Embassy Youth Church flouting COVID-19 protocols at an event in Accra, went viral on social media.

The video showed a mostly unmasked crowd, screaming, chanting, and dancing to the evangelism of their similarly unmasked leaders.

Investigations have already been launched into the alleged gathering by the youth at the Trade Fair Centers Fantasy Dome in Accra, on Friday, April 30, 2021.

In an interview with Citi News, the Director of Public Affairs at the Ghana Police Service, DSP Sheila Abayie-Buckman, said management and leaders of the church are currently being interrogated over the development.

DSP Sheila Abayie-Buckman also cautioned the public to also adhere religiously to the COVID-19 protocols.

The videos we have seen show that they didnt even wear masks, which is a mandatory requirement for everyone, whether in church or not. Let me take advantage of this to stand on the authority of IGP to warn Ghanaians that we are not going to countenance any breach of the COVID-19 protocols in these times and so anybody who intends to breach the protocols will be dealt with.

Meanwhile, the police have locked up the Fantasy Dome where the event was held.

The Ghana Police Service, in a statement, said they are investigating the event which was organised at the blind side of the police.

Police have since Sunday morning locked up the Fantasy Dome and have started questioning leaders of the Church and Management of the Fantasy Dome about the event.

The police in the statement announced that any person found culpable will be arrested and duly prosecuted.

citinewsroom
Muslim MPs in parliament has welcomed the directive from the Ghana Education Service (GES) to the authorities of Wesley Girls High School in Cape Coast to allow Muslim students to observe the Ramadan Fast.

GES, over the weekend, directed Wesley Girls High School and all other schools to allow Muslim students to observe the Ramadan fast, with the written consent of parents not to hold schools responsible for any health complications.

The Ghana Education Service, therefore, directs Wesley Girls' High School as well as any other school to allow any such a student who wishes to fast for any religious reason to do so.

The Muslim caucus in parliament also met the authorities of the school and the Methodist Church last week after it emerged that students of the Islamic faith were prevented from observing the Ramadan fast.

Speaking to Citi News, a member of the caucus and MP for Tamale North, Alhassan Suhuyini, lauded the Ghana Education Service and the other stakeholders for the swift response.

According to him, the acceptance of each others beliefs is what the country is noted.

This is what we wanted. We didnt think that the directive was required, we didnt think it was necessary, and we also didnt think it was appropriate, but we are grateful to Allah for the understanding we have been able to get from the school authorities, the Methodist church, and the Ghana Education Service and so it is important we commend all stakeholders who have worked together to resolve this matter amicably.

This is what Ghana is noted for. The collaboration, the coordination and tolerance of each others religious beliefs.

citinewsroom
Member of Parliament (MP) for Akim Swedru, Kennedy Osei Nyarko, believes the Christ Embassy Youth Church should be severely punished for organizing an event without observing COVID-19 protocols.

Mr. Osei Nyarko described the situation as shocking.

Trending videos of the alleged gathering, dubbed Pneumatica Night showed a mostly unmasked crowd, screaming, chanting, and dancing to the evangelism of their similarly unmasked preachers.

Investigations have already been launched into the alleged gathering by the youth at the Trade Fair Center's Fantasy Dome in Accra, on Friday, April 30, 2021.

In an interview with Citi News, the Director of Public Affairs at the Ghana Police Service, DSP Sheila Abayie-Buckman, said management and leaders of the church are currently being interrogated over the development.

DSP Sheila Abayie-Buckman also cautioned the public to also adhere religiously to the COVID-19 protocols.

The videos we have seen show that they didn't even wear masks, which is a mandatory requirement for everyone, whether in church or not. Let me take advantage of this to stand on the authority of IGP to warn Ghanaians that we are not going to countenance any breach of the COVID-19 protocols in these times and so anybody who intends to breach the protocols will be dealt with.

The Akim Swedru lawmaker says the church must be punished severely to serve as a deterrent to others.

It is very upsetting to see that a church, which should know that we are not in normal times and that we need to respect directives given by the president, would [go contrary to the directives]. That is very shocking and unfortunate, and they should be punished for that regardless [of the fact that] they are a church. They knew the consequences of their actions and still proceeded to do it.

citinewsroom
Paris prosecutors said Monday they had asked judges to drop a case accusing senior members of the French armed forces of complicity in a massacre of Tutsis during the 1994 Rwandan genocide.

The call to drop the 15-year-old case came after a major report in March into allegations about France's role in the genocide.

Survivors of the June 1994 slaughter in the hills of Bisesero in western Rwanda had accused French troops of deliberately abandoning them to Hutu extremists who within days murdered hundreds of people in the area.

The statement said Paris prosecutors had concluded the investigation "did not make it possible to establish that the French forces could have been guilty of the crimes of complicity in genocide and crimes against humanity."

The inquiry did not confirm that there had been any "help or assistance from the French military forces during the carrying out of the atrocities", said chief Paris prosecutor Remy Heitz.

Nor, he added, did it establish that the French forces "refrained from intervening in the face of genocide or crimes against humanity due to a prior agreement."

The criminal investigation into complicity in genocide had been opened by prosecutors in December 2005 after complaints filed by survivors and human rights groups.

The final decision over whether to press ahead with the case rests with the investigating magistrates.

Timeline with maps of the 1994 genocide in Rwanda.. By Paz PIZARRO, Alain BOMMENEL (AFP)

They are now highly likely to drop the case unless any further investigation is ordered, said a source close to the probe, asking not to be named.

The five French military officers targeted by the investigation have never been charged.

Survivors of the massacre alleged that France, which had backed the Hutu government of the day, used the UN-backed Turquoise peacekeeping mission as a front for trying to keep the regime in place, as a buffer against English-speaking Tutsi rebels.

In March, a landmark French report compiled by historians concluded that Paris bore "serious and overwhelming" responsibilities over the slaughter of around 800,000 people between April and July 1994, mainly minority Tutsis.

An estimated 50,000 people alone were killed in the Bisesero area, which was deemed a haven of Tutsi resistance.

A Rwandan report released in mid-April went further than the French report, calling France a "collaborator" of the genocidal Hutu regime.

Neither however found evidence that France was complicit in the genocide.
A former Communications Minister, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, has waded into the alleged breach of COVID-19 safety protocols at a recent event organised by the Airport City branch of the Christ Embassy Youth church in Accra.

The church has received widespread condemnation after videos went viral on social media of the programme dubbed Pneumatica Night held at the Fantasy Dome where the COVID-19 safety protocols were allegedly flouted.

The former Minister of Communications who could not fathom the total disregard of the safety protocols at the event advised Ghanaians to take issues relating to their health seriously.

I still cannot believe the event in the photos took place in Ghana over the past few days in the name of God. What dont people do in the name of God?

According to Dr. Omane Boamah, people are still dying as a result of the virus and the public need to stay safe.

50% of COVID-19 patients who get to the ICU are dying. Covid-19 admissions and deaths now are still scary. Stay safeTrust yourself, only! Not the Pastor. Not the Politician. And save yourself and your family from COVID-19, he wrote on Facebook.

The videos showed a mostly unmasked crowd, screaming, chanting, and dancing to the evangelism of their similarly unmasked leaders.

Meanwhile, the police have locked up the Fantasy Dome where the event was held.

The Ghana Police Service, in a statement, said they are investigating the event which was organised at the blind side of the police.

Police have since Sunday morning locked up the Fantasy Dome and have started questioning leaders of the Church and Management of the Fantasy Dome about the event.

The police in the statement announced that any person found culpable will be arrested and duly prosecuted.

Below is the full post from Dr. Omane Boamah:

Dear friends,

I still cannot believe the event in the photos took place in Ghana over the past few days in the name of God. What dont people do in the name of God?

50% of COVID-19 patients who get to the ICU are dying. Covid-19 admissions and deaths now are still scary. Stay safe!

And do not be fooled that political campaigns in 2020 saw more crowds. That was also wrong and reckless: The very reasons based on which I criticised the Director General of Ghana Health Service and the Minister for Information when they downplayed the effect of the campaigns on COVID-19 infections.

Trust yourself, only! Not the Pastor. Not the Politician. And save yourself and your family from COVID-19.

Thanks.

citinewsroom
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Former President John Dramani Mahama has urged the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) government to be more tolerant of dissenting views from media houses and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), as the world marks World Press Freedom today, Monday, May 3, 2021.

I want to encourage President Nana Akufo-Addo and his close associates to seize the occasion to create an atmosphere that is more tolerant of criticism and devoid of intimidation in order for the media, CSOs and individuals to freely express themselves and contribute to national discourse.

Reporters Without Borders in its ranking released in 2019 saw Ghana losing its spot as one of the best-ranked countries for press freedom.

The drop was attributed mainly to the murder of investigative journalist Ahmed Hussein-Suale earlier in 2019.

Globally, the country dropped from 23 in 2018 to 27 in 2019.

Apart from Ghana's performance on world rankings, some have suggested that the closure of radio stations by the government further suppresses media freedom in Ghana.

In 2019, two media houses affiliated with the National Democratic Congress(NDC)  Radio XYZ and Radio Gold were shut down for various infractions.

The NCA also suspended the authorisation of Radio Tongu in 2020 on the grounds of national security and the public interest.

The decision led to an unspecified number of arrests and the seizure of equipment after the Tongu Community Multimedia Network (Radio Tongu) in the Volta Region illegally resumed operations.

---citinewsroom
A federal court filing showed that a woman on an American Airlines flight from Miami to New York was arrested Sunday for punching a flight attendant in a dispute over picking up garbage. Chenasia Campbell, 28, of Brooklyn was so out-of-control during the rampage that an off-duty NYPD officer aboard the aircraft had to subdue her, according the filing.
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A former Chief Executive Officer of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), Moses Asaga has criticised government for introducing new tax policies in the 2021 budget statement.

Three of the new taxes which took effect on Saturday are as a result of the imposition of an Energy Sector Recovery Levy of GHS 20 pesewas per litre on petrol/diesel, 18 pesewas per kg on Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) and a Sanitation and Pollution Levy of GHS10 pesewas per litre of petrol and diesel.

Petroleum consumers are expected to pay more for fuel at the pumps, following the introduction of these taxes.

Mr. Asaga said it will be unfair for consumers to pay more for fuel as a result of the new taxes.

He believes there should be an alternative way of raising more funds.

Right now we know prices have not really changed. First of all, to say that you want to increase the prices which are just based on institutional pricing is quite unfair to consumers. I do agree that there is a minimum we should all pay for but if they are now using it as the only source, I do not think they are fair to the good people of Ghana.

The decision to introduce new taxes has generated huge controversy with many Ghanaians complaining that it will bring untold hardship on them especially as they are yet to recover from the effects of the COVID-19 on their personal economies.

Fuel prices have already risen by some 11% in the last two months and the new taxes could make an additional 5% rise in taxes which will be borne by consumers.

---citinewsroom
The office of the National Chief Imam has commended the Ghana Education Service (GES) for directing authorities of the Wesley Girls High School in Cape Coast to allow Muslim students to observe the Ramadan fast.

GES in a statement last Saturday, May 1, 2021, directed the school and educational institutions to allow Muslim students to observe the ongoing Ramadan fast.

It also asked parents to submit written consent that, the schools will not be accountable for any health complications as a result of the fast.

The Ghana Education Service, therefore, directs Wesley Girls' High School as well as any other school to allow any such a student who wishes to fast for any religious reason to do so.

Sheikh Aremeyaw Shaibu, the spokesperson for the National Chief Imam, in a Citi News said the news is welcoming.

The response from the Ghana Education Service is a very welcoming one and very soothing, and I say the Chief Imam is very grateful and the larger Muslim community is grateful for the quick response from the GES directing school authorities and other schools to allow Muslim students to go ahead with their fasting and the other directives that are included.

I think it will assuage the anger and concerns that have been expressed so widely on social media, and we are hopeful that the schools will adhere to the directives.

On the same issue, the Coalition of Muslim Organizations Ghana (COMOG) who also raised concerns on the development last week also in a Citi News interview said the GES statement was timely.

Mr. Shahadu Mohammed, General Secretary of COMOG however urged the government to ensure that all other issues affecting Muslims are addressed.

---citinewsroom
Clap for Jesus fun club, an all-male social group based in New Town, a suburb of Sunyani, has donated a variety of items worth about Five thousand Ghana cedis (Ghc 5,000.00) and a cash of a Thousand Ghana cedis (Ghc 1,000.00) to the Rehabilitation of the Marginalized (REMAR) Childrens Home at Abesim near Sunyani.

The donation formed part of a series of activities of the club, which has been in existence for nearly three decades, to reach out to the poor and the marginalized in society.

The items donated included used clothing, ten bags of rice, several cartons of assorted soft drinks, gallons of cooking oil, four boxes of soap, detergents, tissue papers, and 150 packs of sachet water, among others.

The Chairman of the Fun Club, Kwabena Adu Owusu-Ansah, who presented the items on behalf of the members said as fathers, it had always been their desire to show love and compassion to others, especially the deprived.

He gave the assurance that several of such presentations would be made to other institutions in Sunyani and other parts of the country and called on other organisations to emulate their example.

Bior Mingle, the Director of the Home, thanked the leadership and members of the Clap for Jesus fun club for their kind gesture, saying this will go a long way to help in the daily upkeep of the Home as it would put smiles on the faces of the inmates.
Throughout West Africa, the artisanal fishing sector is a crucial source of livelihoods and food security . For instance, in Nigeria artisanal fishing accounts for 80% of the fish consumed and supports the livelihoods of about 24 million people.

Both men and women work in the sector, though the labour  throughout the region  is divided by gender. Men dominate fishing and production while women dominate post-harvest processing , such as dressing, sorting, salting and smoking the fish. Women also do most of the selling and marketing . Women thus play a crucial role in artisanal fishing.

We have conducted research on marine resource governance across West Africa over the last six years. This has included field research in Nigeria , Ghana, Cote d'Ivoire and Senegal . Our research has found that weak fisheries governance undermines the livelihoods of fisherfolk.

Research elsewhere shows that women in particular get a raw deal. Their contributions to the sector are widely un(der)paid, undervalued and largely invisible . This affects them in many ways  for instance, they have less access to capital and other resources.

Because women don't earn enough money, and are restricted in their roles within fisheries, they don't have the buying power to purchase enough fish to earn a living for long periods of time. They also don't have access to the required processing and storage facilities to avoid fish loss through spoilage.

At times of economic or social upheaval such as an epidemic (Ebola) or pandemic (COVID-19) their position is even more vulnerable.

We are now carrying out research that explores these vulnerabilities. The countries we're examining include Nigeria, Cote d'Ivoire, Cameroon and Sao Tome & Principe. In this ongoing research, we are looking at the extent to which COVID-19 has compounded the particular challenges that women face.

The challenges

Gender bias at institutional levels  such as fishery ministries, management agencies and financial institutions  is a significant challenge for women in fisheries. Fisheries policy-making and management overlooks the (often informal) contributions of women . Their fisheries contributions are treated as an extension of their everyday lives and responsibilities, rendering them invisible within the blue economy .

This institutional invisibility reduces women's access to capital , thereby restricting their ability to grow or diversify their livelihoods. Expanding fisheries livelihoods and diversification among women is further complicated by the fact that they must balance productive and reproductive roles , and many use the majority of their earnings to meet household expenses .

Post-harvest fish loss through spoilage is another enduring challenge for women processors. They typically lack access to adequate preservation and cold storage equipment, such as wood for smoking and ice for storing , which both must be purchased and are subject to limited supply.

Depleting fish stocks pose another challenge to women. Half of the fish species in waters off West Africa are over-exploited. This reduces fish caught and limits the access that women have to fish for processing and sale. The competition for access to fish is growing and, as a result, there are reports of women exchanging sexual favours to guarantee steady fish supplies.

Implications and next steps

The challenges that women in West African fisheries face have dire implications.

Institutional invisibility means they are marginalised. They're often excluded from receiving policy or financial support .

Post-harvest fish losses through spoilage and depleting fish stocks threaten the economic and food security of women in fisheries and their families.

Reduced access to fish increases competition for this valuable resource, with dangerous consequences. Globally, HIV/AIDS infection rates in fishing communities are between 4 and 14 times higher than national averages, with transactional sex link doesn't work in the fisheries sector contributing to this high prevalence.

Way forward

Through our work, we've seen that women in fisheries do have coping mechanisms in the form of women's cooperatives. Women's cooperatives at national and regional levels provide important safety nets for women in fisheries, through financial support, advocacy and fundraising. In Cote d'Ivoire, women's cooperatives, like L'Union des Societes Cooperatives des Femmes de la Peche et Assimilees de Cote d'Ivoire , offer support by regulating informal lending relationships on behalf of women who are otherwise exploited by loan sharks.

But more needs to be done, particularly as COVID-19 restrictions are making it harder for women to access, store and sell fish stocks  something we are seeing through our ongoing research.

Measures that policymakers should take include improved cold storage for fish preservation, and processing infrastructures  such as ovens and chamber freezers  to extend the shelf life of landed fish.

Furthermore, West African governments must consider establishing and supporting financial organisations  such as credit unions and cooperatives to provide credit at affordable rates  to lessen the burden of the financial risks that women encounter along the fisheries value chain.

Ifesinachi Okafor-Yarwood receives funding from the Scottish Funding Council.

Sayra van den Berg Bhagwandas receives funding from the Scottish Funding Council.

By Ifesinachi Okafor-Yarwood, Lecturer, University of St Andrews And

Sayra van den Berg Bhagwandas, Postdoctoral researcher, University of St Andrews
As India is being devastated by COVID-19 cases that have now passed a daily rate of 400,000, affluent and callous Australia has taken the decision to suspend all flights coming into the country till mid-month. The decision was reached by the Morrison government with the blessing of the State Premiers and the Labor opposition.

Not happy with banning flights from India, the Morrison government promises to be savage in punishing returnees who find ways to circumvent the ban (for instance, by travelling via a third country). Citizens who breach the travel ban can face up to five years imprisonment and fines up to AU$66,000. We have taken drastic action to keep Australians safe, explained the Treasurer Josh Frydenberg. The situation in India was serious; the decision had only been reached after considering the medical advice.

According to a statement from Health Minister Greg Hunt, it was critical the integrity of the Australian public health and quarantine systems is protected and the number of COVID-19 cases in quarantine is reduced to a manageable level.

The decision fails to carry any weight. It did not take long for more alert medical practitioners to wonder why the approach to India was being so selectively severe. Health commentator and GP Vyom Sharma thought the decision incredibly disproportionate to the threat that it posed. Sharma is certainly correct on this score in terms of international law, which requires the least restrictive or least intrusive way of protecting citizens.

Then there was the issue about the previous policies Canberra had adopted to countries suffering from galloping COVID-19 figures. A baffled Sharma wondered, Why is it that India has copped this ban and no people who have come from America? Former race discrimination commissioner Tim Soutphommasane seconds the suspicions. We didnt see differential treatment being extended to countries such as the United States, the UK, and any other European country even though the rates of infection were very high and the danger of its arrivals from those countries was very high.

The Australian Human Rights Commission has also asked the federal government to justify its actions. The government must show that these measures are not discriminatory and the only suitable way of dealing with the threat to public health.

In the face of such behaviour, aggrieved citizens are left with few legal measures. Australia, among liberal democratic states, is idiosyncratic in refusing to adopt a charter of rights. Down Under, parliamentarians are supposedly wise and keen to uphold human rights till they think otherwise. (Human rights, the argument goes, would become the fodder of lawyers and judges, interfering with the absolute will of Parliament and the electors.) The Australian Constitution is hopelessly silent on the issue of citizenship. Left at the mercy of legislative regulation, Parliament and the executive can be disdainful towards their citizens without consequences.

One avenue remains the Geneva-based UN Human Rights Committee. On April 15, the UNHRC ruled on the case of two petitioners of FreeAndOpenAustralia.org (formerly StrandedAussies.org) that the Morrison government had to facilitate and ensure their prompt return to Australia.

Represented by the notable sage of international law Geoffrey Robertson QC, the petitioners argued that Australia was in breach of Articles 12(4) and 2(3) of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. The first article provides that no one shall be arbitrarily deprived of the right to enter his own country; the second provides for effective remedies to be granted to those whose rights and freedoms have breached under the ICCPR. The petitioners also freely admitted that they had no issue with quarantining for 14 days on returning to Australia.

In the words of Free and Open Australia spokesperson Deb Tellis, the Commonwealth should use its power to expand quarantine facilities, and end travel caps that are being dictated by the states. There are thousands of our fellow citizens suffering loss of their relatives and loss of their jobs.

The government has preferred a meaner, penny pinching approach in coping with quarantine, reducing flights when needed rather than expanding facilities to accommodate a greater number of infected arrivals. The hotel quarantine system continues to receive effusive praise from the Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison as being 99.99 percent effective. But it is impossible for him, and his ministers, to conceal the fact that they do not trust, and are unwilling, to use other facilities and expand existing ones.

Since last November, there have been 16 COVID-19 leaks across the cities of Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth from quarantine hotels. At this writing, another quarantine leak is being reported in Western Australia, involving the now customarily infected hotel security guard and the inevitable seepage into the community. The problem of airborne transmission continues to plague, as does the uneven provision of Personal Protective Equipment. No national standard of quarantine has been formulated through the country, with each state adopting its own approach. Audits of the ventilation systems in many such hotels remain sketchy.

Western Australian Premier Mark McGowan, who recently imposed a lockdown of the Perth and Peel areas and may well do the same thing over the next few days, suggested that the Commonwealth be generous with some of its facilities. Why not use the RAAF Curtin Air Base, or the immigration detention centres of Yongah Hill and Christmas Island? Its kind of staring us in the face and there are things that could assist, its just that the Commonwealth doesnt want to do it.

The evidence so far is that facilities such as Howard Springs in the Northern Territory tend to work. It features single-storey cabins, segregated air conditioning systems, outdoor veranda space and, in the vicinity, a fully functioning hospital. No leaks have been recorded. And location is everything: distant from densely populated areas. This government, however, is miserly on the issue of quarantine, an obligation it has transferred without constitutional justification to State premiers who fear both the virus and its electoral consequences.

Dr. Binoy Kampmark was a Commonwealth Scholar at Selwyn College, Cambridge. He lectures at RMIT University, Melbourne. Email: [email protected]
Criticism of Israels policies towards Palestinians has always induced a defensive rage from its defenders and advocates. A Threshold Crossed, a report by Human Rights Watch, lit several fires of rage and disapproval. Israel, according to the authors, is responsible for apartheid policies.

The word, and the application of its meaning, is immemorially nasty. This deeply though through policy of Afrikaans origin speaks to a hatred not merely of Black Africans but British imperialism and its carefree mixing of multiracial labour. But apartheid has become an expression so singular it resists appropriation, adaptation and application. This is all good from a historians point of view, but, taken in its theoretical idea and its application, the Israeli policy towards Palestinians in certain areas (the Occupied Territories, for instance) suggests that the term varies in application.

HRW, however, is a touch loose on distinguishing the policy, highlighting that Israeli authorities have dispossessed, confined, forcibly separated, and subjugated Palestinians by virtue of their identity to varying degrees of intensity. It remarks that the Israeli government aims to ensure that Jewish Israelis maintain domination across Israel and the OPT (Occupied Palestinian Territories).

Israeli-Jewish domination is the leitmotif, whether it be limiting the population and political power of Palestinians, restricting movement, Judaization of areas with large numbers of Palestinians including Jerusalem as well as the Galilee and the Negev in Israel. Acknowledgment is made that the nature of the discrimination, part of the goal of domination does vary to different rules established by the Israeli government in Israel, on the one hand, and different parts of the OPT, on the other, where the most severe forms take place. In this package of analysis, the report argues that such distinctions are specious.

Reference is made to the 1973 International Convention on the Suppression and Punishment of the Crime of Apartheid and the 1998 Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court. The definition of apartheid under both yields three elements: the intent to maintain a system of domination by one racial group over another; systematic oppression by one racial group over another; and one or more inhumane acts, as defined, carried out on a widespread or systematic basis pursuant to those policies.

The report makes no mention of the findings of the Russell Tribunal on Palestine, a peoples assembly inspired by the formula used by Bertrand Russell and likeminded intellectuals to subject the United States to scrutiny for alleged war crimes in Vietnam in the 1960s. This is an odd omission, given that the 2011 proceedings held in Cape Town concluded that two distinct racial groups were present; inhumane acts based on that distinction had been committed by Israeli authorities; and that these arose out of the institutionalised nature of domination by one group over another.

The HRW report does take a place alongside a burgeoning collection of critiques and assessments of Israeli policy. Most of those, however, focus on the Occupied Territories as a distinct zone of political control and discrimination. In 2007, a report by John Dugard, UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Palestinian territories occupied since 1967, found that [e]lements of the Israeli occupation constitute forms of colonialism and apartheid, which are contrary to international law. These legal consequences arising from such an occupation should be put to the International Court of Justice. The following year, the Rapporteur remarked that Israel was practising apartheid but in a very dishonest and concealed manner. At least South African apartheid was open and honest.

Over the years, much heavy artillery has been brought to bear on those accusing Israel for policies that might be caught by that dirty term. The HRW report has endured a similar barrage of obloquy. Israels Ambassador to the United Nations, Gilad Erdan considered HRWs findings a collection of lies and fabrications, bordering on anti-Semitic.

Arsen Ostrovsky, CEO of the International Legal Forum, calls the report tantamount to an anti-Semitic blood libel against the Jewish state. It was filled with malicious lies and gross distortions of law while peddling in unhinged hate, incitement and racist stereotypes. Doing exactly what he accuses HRW of, Ostrovsky adopts a selective analytical lens: Israeli Arabs enjoyed full political and civil rights while Palestinians living in the West Bank or Gaza had autonomous control through the Palestinian Authority and Hamas.

The authors of the Report are accused of not considering the loss of Israeli lives, be it of soldiers or civilians as a result of terrorist attacks. Josh Feldman, himself a son of South African Jews, is keen to point out that the West Bank separation barrier was the result of Palestinian terrorist attacks. All, in short, have suffered.

Like the Holocaust, apartheid is claimed to have a lineage of moral copyright and ethical intellectual property. There is an almost proprietary essence to it: certain people discovered it, patented it, implemented it, and therefore, no one else could possibly do the same. If they did, it would be slipshod, amateurish and shallow, not to mention a plain old insult. Israel might discriminate in its policies, but more would need to be shown.

Former Justice of the South African Constitutional Court Richard Goldstone signalled that point in chastising the misuse of the term. This is despite the view of the Human Sciences Research Council of South Africa, which found in 2009 that Israels control of the Occupied Palestinian Territories with the purpose of maintaining a system of domination by Jews over Palestinians  constitutes a breach of the prohibition of apartheid. In opining on the activities of the Russell Tribunal on Palestine, Goldstone considered the apartheid accusation to be a particularly pernicious and enduring canard. Accepting that the word might have a wider meaning, Goldstone was stubbornly insistent that it remain anchored in the pre-1994 soil of South Africa. It is an unfair and inaccurate slander against Israel, calculated to retard rather than advance peace negotiations.

The same sentiments have been aired in response to the HRW report. Like Goldstone, these envisage a peace process that barely exists but can somehow be disrupted by the views of a human rights organisation. Michal Cotler-Wunsh, formerly a lawmaker for the Blue and White Party regarded the report as a complete hurdle to peace and driven by blind hate.

Resistance against using the term apartheid in the context of Israeli policy has not been total. Some crumbling has taken place in Israel proper. Veteran Haaretz columnist Bradley Burston, writing in 2015, said it was time to stop the qualifications and defensive delusions. This is what has become of the rule of law. Two sets of books. One for Us, and one to throw at Them. Apartheid. He pointed to a few examples: the actions of fundamentalist clergy encouraging segregation, inequality, supremacism and subjugation; the suggestions by lawmaker and former Shin Bet chief Avi Dichter to segregate the use of roads and highways in the West Bank; attacks by Jewish settlers upon Palestinian property with impunity; Palestinians jailed or shot dead without trial.

Gideon Levy, also of Haaretz and ever reliable in keeping the fires of controversy burning, suggested in his response to the HRW report that Israel had, indeed, crossed the line. Israelis might continue to praise themselves and enjoy life and lie as we please. But hideous as it was, his citizens could no longer claim that the spit directed at their faces was rain.

In January this year, the longstanding Israeli human rights group BTselem used an approach similar to HRW in concluding that there was one regime governing the entire area [between the Mediterranean Sea and the Jordan River] and the people living in it, based on a single organizing principle. According to the organisations director Hagai El-Ad, One of the key points in our analysis is that this is a single geopolitical area ruled by one government. It was not a case of democracy plus occupation but apartheid between the river and the sea. Such a fact was concealed by different regimes of control exercised by the Israeli state, highlighting the inherent inequality between Jews and Palestinians.

Ami Ayalon, former Knesset member, and former head of Shin Bet and Israels naval forces, is also convinced that Israels political system integrates apartheid and is not commensurate with Judaism though he is careful with territorial applications. The West Bank, he warned, is no democracy, marked as it is by two different legal systems, one for the Jews and one for the Palestinians. Such assessments can hardly be dismissed as blood libels and anti-Semitic fancies.

Dr. Binoy Kampmark was a Commonwealth Scholar at Selwyn College, Cambridge. He lectures at RMIT University, Melbourne. Email: [email protected]
The solemn TRUTH without any solace is that Ghana has shamefully exposed herself as a rogue country with delinquent leadership and proven grave misgovernance. It is self -evident from a lack of genuine political will and woeful institutional failure to deal with the unrelenting Galamsey insurrection in our entire 4th Republican Constitutional "Corruptionocracy", that the nation faces an existential threat to our Economy, our Peoples and our Environment.

A marked lack of integrity at all levels, regarding horrendous amoral indulgence of illicit small-scale mining, has grown especially vicious over the last four years to become a big scale criminal national pre -occupation.

Consequently, two of the nation's top foreign exchange earners, gold and cocoa are under siege, our forest cover is under unmitigated depletion, our lands are under attack and our water bodies are in muddied death throes while corruption is at a sure optimum surge in need of radical surgery. This renders Ghana effectively a failed state unable to manage the fundamental lifeline of its economy and livelihoods, under a Presidency that was put "on the line", as a "Gallamstop" Guarantee!

The recent zealous re-launch of the anti-Galamsey campaign by Hon. Abu Jinapor who has emerged from the Presidency to infuse yet another injection of braggadocio into the endless galamsey fight is a shameful admission of hitherto abysmal failure. There is little doubt that this new vehemence while secret proxy deals and complicit scavenging persist, will also amount to window dressing which cannot render Galamsey lifeless, without dealing with the main systemic root causes of the menace which can be traced to:

 Lack of Implementation of radical and meaningful laws on Campaign Finance: The shady conundrum of campaign finance is a real CORRUPTION OCTOPUS WITH Galamsey TENTACLES and systemic cover-ups without sanctions for powerful Galamsey barons who 'Own, Support and Control' the political establishment in both NPP and NDC administrations.

Some local drug and other powerful mafia- type Barons especially those who sponsor political party campaigns and political activists have found an alternate multi-billion dollar intoxicant of choice; illicit Gold ore from the interior core of the erstwhile Gold Coast with complicit officialdom at national and local levels and no personal consequence whatsoever making the up to 15 years jail term a nonsensical joke otherwise known as proposition zero.

 The decay of our Regulatory Agencies: There is an obvious and radical need for qualitative overhaul and forensic reviews of the Forestry Commission, The Environmental Protection Agency, the Ghana Geological Survey Authority and above all the Minerals Commission which is the Regulatory Compliance, Policy Implementation and Technical Agency with licensing oversight which has advisedly been described as "THE ENGINE ROOM WHERE ALL THE Galamsey FRAUD AND ILLEGALITIES ARE HATCHED" ..

It is most Sad that Ghana is obviously "Reaping the Whirlwind" of anti- nationalism, misgovernance and incessant collusive plunder of its mineral wealth and desecration of her environment without any conscience as though caution has been abandoned in a new locally inflicted slavery in alliance with neo imperialists!

50 yrs ago Dr. K. A Busia, Ghana's foremost democrat for progress, ethics in governance advocate and anti- corruption crusader with a rural development imperative, as Prime Minister, diagnosed "Bribery and corruption" as the number one Ghana problem, disbanded the Kumasi City Council for corruption investigations and called for curative ethics in governance, as well as advocated honesty in public service instead of amassing illicit wealth.

It is thus an alarming and disquieting irony that under an NPP government with self-proclaimed Busia-proteges, who should know better, the Galamsey menace has reached a sordid governance and corruption zenith, posing a destructive developmental security and greed and avarice challenge to our country that is a confrontation to his legacy.

How on earth can a two-faced hypocritical Ghana, with its myriad agencies, wholesale political appointees and an inter-ministerial committee on illegal mining at the forefront of a 4 yr vigorous zero - tolerance Galamsey fight, be a world leader in depletion of her pristine rain forest in order to attract international recrimination and threats of trading conditionalities as a call to renewed Action?

Indeed, Why must it take a government to order the "guilt - ridden" military to again undertake a law enforcement operation of an uncontrolled, ran away economic activity, of the willy-nilly gathering away of precious gold, as though there were no laws or national process ownership?

What is the justification for the varied regulatory institutions that are collectively unable to deal with the menace which has reached crisis levels under their inept and compromised watch?

Currently, the Minerals Commission CEO has been asked to proceed on leave. Indeed, he has been "axed" without an iota of accountability on his part, whereas his 3 Deputy Chief Executives created originally and super imposed as part of the hailed yet failed grand Galamsey crisis intervention under Hon Peter Amewu are firmly entrenched. There is ongoing lobbying by some of the Executives for the CEO position after a marked lack of delivery and the grand promise of Galamsey banishment has resulted in a fierce Galamsey scandalous resurgence.

* It is instructive from the collective failure of the Galamsey fight on the ground that ALL of the top Executives associated with the last CEO's tenure should be disqualified. No One from among them should take over the CEO post as a permanent replacement.

All the cited state Regulatory Commissions especially The Minerals Commission certainly need forensic audits, critical reform, and the appointment of non- partisan competent and knowledgeable individuals with legal, technical and industry expertise, integrity, and commitment to Ghana's interest first not "create loot and share" jobs for political pundits and compromised cronies with self-interest at its worst who shortchange the national purse.

As a matter of fact the wholesale plunder of our forests and water bodies with the collusion of these Friends and family inundated regulatory agencies, calls for appropriate wholesale requisite prosecutions, imprisonments, and recovery of derivative illicit assets of " Top Guns ' including insider industry participants who have violated their mandates with ill logic.

Is the Presidential call for an independent international body to study and make further recommendations for reform of the involved regulatory agencies which sounds like a yawn of another bureaucratic imposition whose well -worn inputs may yet be hindered and or discarded, as usual, the requisite Answer after we have had over 20yrs of Public Sector Reforms with bilateral support?

What we need is Transformed character, attitudinal change, ethics in governance and punitive sanctions for designated "untouchables".

*A proper and thorough investigation or forensic review of the Galamsey menace and the Minerals Commission without executive or political hindrance for example will reveal that :

i. The Minerals Commission overrides legal and regulatory strictures by issuance of mining and prospecting licenses in unpermitted mapped areas in violation of forest reserves and within restricted areas of water bodies. An example is the Gyimi river in Obuasi which has been parcelled out to cronies under the guise of community mining.

ii. Documented Technical advisory against such illegalities are surreptitiously overidden; requests for due diligence are set aside while illicit applications are approved due to clout and high level connections. This includes cocoa and other farm lands which are capriciously annexed for exploitative Galamsey with an official stamp of approval.

iii. The Commission has created licensed self- dealing monopolies that have captured and capsized the mining industry. Effective undercover sub- leases are given by licensees to empower second tier Galamseyers in this multi-billion dollar industry that deprives the nation of its licit wealth while protecting criminal galamseyers.

iv. There is no enforcement of appropriate laws when prospecting licensees fail to find gold within the allotted timeframe. This becomes an opportunity for further self-enrichment /underhand dealings.

v. The digitisation of license applications which was initiated to streamline and make the process more transparent has strangely stalled and must be reinstated with immediate effect to enable a remote approval process with measurable revenue and independent regular monitoring of the workflow to forestall frustrating processes that ensure corrupt practices.

vi. illicit applications that are clearly violative of forest reserves and within protected river body zones are recommended for and do get Ministerial approval. This then guarantee illicit operations on the blind side of prudential requirements amid mafia type threats of assassination by deeply involved gangsters with high stakes and massive revenue links to high level political party hierarchies. This ensures positive rhetoric without commensurate action

Thus, a Ghana crying foul should look not to Chinese gold diggers with superior technology as opined by the Chinese ambassador in a viral video. Can anyone blame him for Ghanaian infamous greed and ineptitude? Can any Ghanaian dare go to China to even attempt Galamsey and come out alive?

We must look to the Politicians who wield power, the Minerals and Forestry commissions, the Environmental Protection agency, the Ghana Geological survey Authority, and local authority officials including DCE's and MCE's and all. special appointments for the fight who turned around to bite the hand that feeds them and looked askance as reserved forest belts like Atiwa, Desiri, Aprampramah and premier water bodies are desecrated

We must particularly ask the inter-Ministerial committee on illegal mining for ANSWERS!

We must not forget complicit law enforcement Top Brass who protect only their pockets to the detriment of all

We must also look for answers from some of the high-profile traditional Chiefs including those pretending to be in the forefront of the Galamsey fight who are nonetheless guilty of collaboration and selfish enrichment which they now seek to denounce in broad daylight after facilitating the traumatic onslaught in the forests under their jurisdiction

To the "minions" who assist in collective destruction of our resources claiming they have no alternatives, I am at a loss at voicing a plea when they so clearly take their cues from their amoral masters at the top echelons, they must nonetheless desist from the pillage since they also have a shared responsibility in protecting our environment and natural resources for posterity

There is a seeming unstoppable racketeering which is as profitable to its criminal gold billionaires as it is dangerous to and impoverish the nation by those tasked to protect her who are the same entities and personalities who have collectively engulfed the country in a disdainful "festival of Rape".

We must collectively fight systemic Malfunction, unconscionable corruption, incompetence, serial misgovernance and utter leadership morass.

The mantra "Ghana beyond aid" rings shallow when the very sources of domestic revenue are destroyed in underhand promotion of criminalized small-scale mining while we resort to run-away borrowing sprees in bonds and loans in double jeorpardy.

Will we see from the newly minted fight a genuine commitment to end the destructive galamsey outrage for a properly managed and well governed small scale mining sector that would yield significant revenues that would obviate the conundrum of toying with our Agyapade3 gold royalties?

Whereas, one would hope so. the question that remains apt is: Whither "oman" Ghana?

Ghana in its current existential anomaly is a nation in a reckless and hollow lip service shackles, when it comes to control of Galamsey and environmental desecration. This makes one want to shed copious tears for a dying nation with self- inflicted wounds in hypocritical pretext of a fight that is a long shot from being won.

We must indeed express renewed outrage for the right thing to be done. Yes, the culture of complicit silence in Ghana must end as we finally look in our hearts and see if we can find love for each other and for our beleaguered country

Email: busiafordemocracy @ yahoo.com
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A Senior High School boy identified as Obeng Emmanuel, aged 18, has allegedly been shot by an police officers at Krobo near Techiman in the Bono East Region.

The incident occurred on Sunday at 12:05am.

According to sources, the boy was shot by the officers after he allegedly pelted them with stones at the Krobo area while they were on patrol.

The two officers, Constable Owusu Mensah and Constable Dominic Amankona who were on motorbikes in an attempt to defend themselves and escape, fired a warning shot which hit the victim on the shoulder.

Meanwhile, the victim is currently on oxygen at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of Holy Family Hospital in Techiman.

The family of Obeng Emmanuel has refuted allegations leveled against their child, insisting he never pelted stones at the police officers as claimed.

DGN online
A THREE-BEDROOM self-contained house belonging to the Assembly Member for Lashibi Electoral Area in the Tema West Municipality of the Greater Accra Region, Shaibu A. Kabore has been pulled down upon the orders of the Regional Minister, Henry Quartey.

The building is said to be on waterway and causing flooding in the area whenever it rains.

Recently, the Regional Minister ordered the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) to pull down a structure erected on a waterway at Lashibi.

The building and washing bay have been under construction since 2020, restricting the free flow of water in the community.

During a visit to the site by the Minister and a joint team of police and NADMO officials last week, the minister ordered authorities at the assembly to ensure the structure is demolished by Wednesday to prevent flooding in the area.

The Engineer has said he has not authorised this structure to be here. I do not have a problem when people are building but especially with the rains about to set in, we cannot allow these things to go on. NADMO, you will get the machines, National Security will assist you, and it has to go down, he ordered.

Meanwhile, the Municipal Engineer of the Tema West Assembly (TWMA), Vincent Blah Quarshie, said several attempts to halt the construction of the washing bay have proved futile.

Interestingly, after pulling down the supposed washing bay last week when the three bedrooms structure said to be the property of the Assembly Member behind the washing bay was also detected hence its demolition on Monday.

Speaking with the media after the demolition exercise, the Regional Minister mentioned that his steps were to ensure that sanity was brought back to the Region.

I visited the Ramsar site areas and in the cause of it, I noticed that theres a washing bay so I asked the NADMO and the Assembly to demolish unauthorised buildings by exercising its functions and powers as backed by the law.

So same was carried out and the washing bay was demolished. Only for my attention to be drawn to a building behind the washing bay. It was a beautiful building belonging to an assembly member. And we dont want to do selective justice so they should proceed and demolish it too though it belongs to assembly member in order to be fair since he is a leader and leadership is by example.

He served notice that the people are saying he cant do it but what I want to say is that the train has taken off and you are the passenger so when it gets to your place and its on waterways then I can assure you that the train will stop. This must serve as deterrent to all.

The minister commended the assembly member for his understanding and maturity.

He debunked speculations that his outfit demolished the structures, saying that the Regional Minister doesnt got that power but the assembly that got that power.

Responding to demolition of his building, the Assembly Member said I dont want anyone to tarnish the image of the President and the Greater Accra Regional Minister who are working hard to change the Region.

I have accepted that my house should be demolished in order not be impediment to the good work of the Greater Accra Regional Minister and President.

I am serving as an example that my house should be demolished to serve as deterrent to others who have built on waterways in the country and it is improper for the house not to be demolished to cause flooding which could take life and properties.

The Tema Metropolitan Director of NADMO has also recommended the demolition of unauthorised structures around the Tema Community 7 Post Office because of the risk they pose to life and property.

The Tema NADMO Director stated that the structures were constructed indiscriminately to obstruct the free flow of water.

NADMO urged the Tema city authorities to pull down the structures to avert a possible disaster in the future.

citinewsroom
The ruling BJP-led NDA returned to power in Assam for the second consecutive term as the "Mitrajot" secured 68 seats in the 126-member assembly, election officials said on Sunday midnight.

According to the latest tally of the Election Commission results late on Sunday night, of the total of 126 seats, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has so far won 53 seats, and leading in six seats while its ally Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) won nine seats and the United People's Party Liberal (UPPL) won six seats.

The Congress has won 23 seats and leading in seven seats. Other partners of the Congress led "Mahajot" (grand alliance) - the All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) won 13 seats and leading in three seats, Bodoland Peoples Front (BPF) and Communist Party of India-Marxist won four and one seat respectively.

Raijor Dal (RD) President and jailed leader Akhil Gogoi, who is contesting from Sibasagar constituency as an independent candidate, also won the seat by defeating the BJP candidate Surabhi Rajkonwari by a marjin of 11, 875 votes.

The BJP had won 60 seats during the previous Assembly elections in 2016 while its ally AGP had managed 14 seats and the Congress had secured 26 seats and one seat went to the independent candidate.

Contesting the 2016 elections independently, the AIUDF won 13 seats while Bodoland Peoples Front (BPF) had bagged 12 seats five years ago..The BPF was earlier an ally of the BJP and is now an alliance partner of the 10-party "Mahajot".

Disclaimer: Information, facts or opinions expressed in this news article are presented as sourced from IANS and do not reflect views of Moneylife and hence Moneylife is not responsible or liable for the same. As a source and news provider, IANS is responsible for accuracy, completeness, suitability and validity of any information in this article.
The Robinson R44 chopper was flying near the Charlotte suburb of Wingate around 1:30 p.m. when the aircraft became entangled in power lines, according to the Union County Sheriffs Office and the Federal Aviation Administration.
In the wake of the second wave of Covid-19, the Supreme Court on Monday directed the central and state governments to consider enforcing a ban on mass gatherings and super spreader events as well as consider imposing a lockdown.

"We would seriously urge the central and state governments to consider imposing a ban on mass gatherings and super spreader events. They may also consider imposing a lockdown to curb the virus in the second wave in the interest of public welfare," the Supreme Court said.

"Having said that, we are cognizant of the socio-economic impact of a lockdown, specifically, on the marginalised communities. Thus, in case the measure of a lockdown is imposed, arrangements must be made beforehand to cater to the needs of these communities," the apex court added.

The SC also has asked the Central and state governments to put on record their efforts taken so far to curb the spread of the deadly virus which has so far infected 1,99,25,604 with 34,13,642 active cases and a total of 2,18,959 deaths.

The top court further asked the Centre and the states to inform it about the measures that they have planned to deal with the global disease in the near future.

Considering Covid-19 crisis, the court then directed that "no patient shall be denied hospitalisation or essential drugs in any state or Union Territory for lack of local residential or identity proof".

A bench headed by Justice D.Y. Chandrachud issued the directive that the central government should formulate a national policy on admissions to hospitals within two weeks.

The judge said that the policy should also be followed by all state governments and that no patients till then will be denied admission or essential drugs in absence of local residential or identity proof.

The Supreme Court's order noted that getting admission in hospital with a bed is one of the biggest challenges being faced by thousands of people across the country since the beginning of the second wave of the Covid pandemic.

The top court observed that citizens have been suffering immeasurable hardship.

"Different states and local authorities follow their own protocols. Differing standards for admission in different hospitals across the nation leads to chaos and uncertainty. The situation cannot brook any delay," it said.

"Accordingly, we direct the central government to frame a policy in this regard, in exercise of its statutory powers under the Disaster Management Act, which will be followed nationally. The presence of such a policy shall ensure that no one in need is turned away from a hospital, due to no fault of their own."

In its order released late Sunday night, the Supreme Court had also directed that the central government to create a buffer stock of oxygen in collaboration with state governments to ensure supply lines continue to function even in unforeseen circumstances and decentralise the location of the emergency stocks.

Disclaimer: Information, facts or opinions expressed in this news article are presented as sourced from IANS and do not reflect views of Moneylife and hence Moneylife is not responsible or liable for the same. As a source and news provider, IANS is responsible for accuracy, completeness, suitability and validity of any information in this article.
As I write this article, results of the Assembly elections in the five states are trickling in, diverting the public attention from the tragedy that India is today, with Corona patients waiting in queues and dying helplessly in ambulances, unable to get hospital care, critical patients gasping for oxygen and breathing their last, the kith and the kin of the departed souls waiting in endless lines for disposing of the dead bodies and thousands of people, including the old and the infirm waiting in unending queues for the elusive Covid vaccine.

Some parties may win in these elections, others may lose, but does this not remind us of the Killing Fields of Cambodia? At the end of these elections, who is the winner? Is it democracy? May not be.

Has the Election Commission of India (ECI) of the TN Seshan fame covered itself in glory? Certainly not.

This is perhaps the most tragic of all elections because, the political parties have literally sold their souls to win elections, like Mephistopheles, who made an unholy deal with the Devil for worldly gains, when the country was witnessing mass cremations.

The ECI, which could have risen to the occasion by preventing the calamity, unfortunately chose to become a party to it.

When both the Calcutta and the Madras High Courts made adverse observations on the ECI's role in these elections and when the press reported the same widely, the ECI has appealed to one of the courts not to permit press coverage of its observations, as it would tarnish its reputation!

On the face of it, this runs counter to the need for transparency, encapsulated in the two Constitutional rights, freedom of the press and the citizen's right to know. But there are deeper concerns about the ECI's role as an election regulator.

What was its reputation in early nineties when Mr Seshan was the election commissioner? Does the present ECI measure up to it?

Socrates, the Greek philosopher once said, the way to gain a good reputation is to endeavour to be what you desire to appear.

What role does the present day ECI wish to assign to itself? Is there clarity and honesty about this? Has it done justice to itself? Has it done anything to deserve the trailblazing legacy left by Mr Seshan?

TN Seshan, with whom I had the fortune of working when he was a Member in the erstwhile Planning Commission and, as an election observer, when he was the election commissioner, had stretched the election law to its outermost limits to demonstrate what the ECI's authority should mean for the Indian democracy.

He injected flesh and blood into the otherwise staid Model Code of Conduct (MCC). He did not hesitate to put the fear of the law in the minds of the political parties.

He did not hesitate to court controversy, when needed to establish the dignity of the ECI. In 1992, he cancelled elections in two States when the political parties failed to cooperate with the ECI.

In 1993, he disqualified 1,488 Lok Sabha candidates for three years because they failed to submit election expense accounts. In 1994, he asked the then Prime Minister to drop two senior cabinet ministers who tried to influence the voters.

Several of Mr Seshan's successors had tried to safeguard ECI's reputation, built so assiduously by him. However, some in the recent times squandered away opportunities to maintain it, because they chose to be servile to the politicians who appointed them and far too timid to stand up to the political bigwigs.

ECI's stature has thus diminished over the years. The present ECI has had opportunities to stem this trend but it chose not to. If its reputation is hurt, it is a self-inflicted wound. For the ECI to find fault with the press is therefore meaningless.

A few specific examples would show how the ECI has allowed many golden opportunities to slip away from its hands, when it could have easily accomplished a fraction of what Mr Seshan did.

Many political parties failed to submit their expenditure statements and political contribution reports on time. The ECI could have threatened to bar their future participation in elections but it chose to be a passive spectator.

When the political parties failed to certify that the corporate contributions received by them were compliant with the provisions of the Companies Act and the Foreign Contributions Regulation Act, the ECI could have asked them to show cause as to why an adverse inference should not be drawn against them but the ECI looked the other way.

The ECI could have filed cases against the political parties and their candidates for electoral corruption, non-disclosure of accurate information by the candidates in affidavits on their antecedents and so on.

The ECI has not cared to act, as some of the errant candidates are among the high and the mighty.

As a result, the political parties have started taking the ECI for granted and mocked at its role as an independent regulatory body.

Retiring civil servants competed with one another to become election commissioners and, in return, were prepared to do their bidding.

The manner in which the ECI conducted the recent Assembly elections and bye polls is truly bizarre. During the Covid fury, the ECI could have averted the tragedy by putting off the elections. The Commission lacked the will to do so.

Instead of allowing physical rallies for the elections, the ECI could have insisted on virtual meets to avoid infringement of the Covid norms.

The Commission was neither innovative enough nor it had the vision to do so.

Its own Covid directions warned the political parties that their rallies would be banned, if they failed to comply with the Covid-appropriate norms of behaviour.

The star campaigners of the political parties, some of them the highest in the government, nonchalantly threw caution to the wind, blatantly defied the Covid discipline, endangering the lives of the people consciously.

Some of them even gloated over the numbers present, with a mischievous, self-glorifying glee written all over their faces, at the huge ovation they received, deliberately ignoring the human misery and trauma that was sure to follow.

The ECI could have banned the rallies, invoked its inherent authority to get the star campaigners booked for offences under the Disaster Management Act (DMA) and even Sections 269 and 270 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) [spreading infectious disease endangering human life] and deferred elections for conducting rallies in an irresponsible manner.

The ECI failed to enforce its own directions and authority, knowing well that its inaction meant death and destruction all around as a result of the spread of Covid.

By doing so, the ECI had unwittingly become a party to the offences, as facilitating an offence amounted to its abetment, equally punishable.

It is the ECI that has diminished its own authority. It is the ECI that has eroded its own reputation.

When Mr Seshan put life into the Election Commission in the early nineties, the Commission's stature went sky high.

Even today, more than two decades later, Mr Seshan has remained a household name throughout the country. His name has become synonymous with independent oversight of elections.

Unfortunately, though Mr Seshan's name continues to remain in the heart of every Indian, the ECI's reputation has eroded. Is it not high time for the ECI to worry about itself and its role?

The strength of the ECI lies in its firm commitment to transparency in its functioning, even-handedness in its dealing with the political parties and fearlessness in bringing the high and the mighty to justice.

If the ECI fails to take cognisance of this and fails to correct itself, its reputation is bound to decline further.

If it rediscovers the ECI of the Mr Seshan kind, strives to transform itself accordingly and enhances its image in the minds of the people at large, why should it really care about what anyone else says?

I hope that the ECI will ponder over these issues with a sense of urgency and earnestness. A healthy, independent, fearless, fair ECI is a necessity for Indian democracy to survive.

(EAS Sarma is former secretary to Government of India)
After winning a bitterly-fought battle with the BJP to record her third successive victory in the West Bengal Assembly elections, Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee seems to have emerged as a formidable challenge to the Centre's ruling party.

With leaders of different regional parties, including NCP chief Sharad Pawar, sending her congratulatory massages, the message from the Assembly election is clear that Banerjee is capable of taking the challenge of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, and combating it successfully.

However, the Congress, which was expected to win at least two states but could not do, failing to wrest Assam from the BJP and Kerala from the Left, still insists that it is the only option to BJP.

Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said: "Congress is the sole national party which is alternative to the BJP as it is fighting BJP in all the states."

But the messages from the leaders of regional parties indicate that Banerjee, whose Trinamool which was once part of the UPA, has shown her mettle by single-handedly defeating the BJP and in a convincing manner.

The poll results show that people of West Bengal have rejected the Bharatiya Janata Party's attempt to polarise the elections. The BJP, which had left no stone unturned to dislodge the Banerjee government, could not cross three-digit figure despite its claims of getting 200-plus seats out of the state's 294.

The reason behind Banerjee's masterful performance was admitted by a BJP leader, who said that their leadership "failed to understand the pulse of Bengal and its culture". "And that is the reason despite leading in 121 Assembly constituencies in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, we are facing difficulties in winning over 100 seats in less than a two-year period."

"People rejected politics of polarisation or communal politics. Muslim votes polarised in favour of the Trinamool while the Bengali Hindu also rejected communal politics and voted for the Trinamool," the BJP leader said.

Disclaimer: Information, facts or opinions expressed in this news article are presented as sourced from IANS and do not reflect views of Moneylife and hence Moneylife is not responsible or liable for the same. As a source and news provider, IANS is responsible for accuracy, completeness, suitability and validity of any information in this article.
There is a positive development for holders of Government of India bonds who are using the demat account of Stock Holding Corporation of India Limited (SHCIL). Since 13th April, their system has started accepting applications for nomination in the case of joint-holders of GoI Bonds.

This is a first-hand account and I want to share it with readers of Moneylife. More so since it is really a case of Moneylife impact!

For several years, I have been putting a small part of my savings into GoI bonds subscribed through SHCIL. All the holdings are in joint names. While making the application, I was informed that for joint holdings, there is no provision for nomination. The usual pitch was that it was not necessary because the holdings were in joint names. And, while I did not accept the logic, I had not really gotten down to insisting on my right to nominate, for a relatively easier way of transmission of the holdings.

More recently, I was helping my niece and nephew with regard to transmission of inherited assets through a Will. It took enormous amount of energy, paperwork and expenses. Also disturbed by deaths of couples due to COVID, I decided to revisit all my nominations. I found that my jointly-held SHCIL bonds lacked a nominee.

So, the first step was to contact the agent, through whom I had bought the bonds. He gave me the usual spiel that it was not necessary... etc, etc. On my insistence, he agreed to send my applications to SCHIL and promptly sent me their acknowledgement receipt. I waited for a fortnight before reminding the agent, who went to SCHIL office personally to follow it up. Since I happen to know the branch manager, he called me personally to explain that there was a problem with my request and he had tried to enter the details in the system twice and the applications had been rejected. I told him that I wanted this in writing, so that I could escalate the matter. So he realised I wasnt going to be placated.

In the meanwhile, being a part of the Moneylife family, I was able to access the fact that the regulations for The Government Securities Act, 2006 and The Government Securities Regulations, 2007 came into effect on 1 December 2007 clearly state that the nomination facility is available for joint holdings also. These are now available on the website of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and my colleagues promptly sent me the pdf of the FAQ (frequently asked questions) from RBIs website.

I forwarded the pdf to branch manager SCHIL who, in turn, forwarded it to their head-office. Two days later, he was asked by his head-office to enter the details of my applications in the system. And, lo and behold! This time the system accepted them and the nomination has been affected. On 13th April, I received SCHILs system-generated communication giving me the details of the registration date and number of the nominee.

Why their system should have taken 13 years (since the Regulations became effective in 2007) is another matter. As they say in this part of the world -- der aaye, durust aaye.

For our readers who may be interested, here are excerpts from the RBI document.

Government securities offer the benefit of safety, liquidity and attractive returns to investors. With the enactment of the Government Securities Act, 2006 Government securities, including the Relief/Savings Bonds issued by the Government of India, have become more investor friendly. Investors of such bonds will particularly benefit from such changes in the Act. To create public awareness in this regard and as a customer friendly measure, the following Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) along with the answers have been released by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)

1. What does one mean by Government security?

Government security (G-Sec) means a security created and issued by the Government for the purpose of raising a public loan or any other purpose as notified by the Government in the Official Gazette and having one of the following forms.

i. a Government Promissory Note (GPN) payable to or to the order of a certain person; or

ii. a bearer bond payable to a bearer; or

iii. a stock; or

iv. a bond held in a Bond Ledger Account (BLA).

17. Whether the G S Act provides for nomination facility?

Yes. The G S Act provides for nomination facility for a Government security other than in the form of GPN and bearer bond. The sole holder or all the joint holders of such a Government security may nominate one or more persons , who in the event of death of the sole holder or the death of all the joint holders, would become entitled to the Government security and payment thereon.
The Supreme Court on Monday told the Election Commission of India (ECI) to take media reports based on oral observation of courts as 'a bitter pill in the right spirit'. Last week, the Madras High Court had remarked that ECI was 'singularly responsible for COVID second wave' and its officers should probably be booked for murder.

Hearing a plea filed by the Election Commission against oral observations made by the Madras High Court last week, the bench of justice DY Chandrachud and justice MR Shah, told senior advocate Rakesh Dwivedi, appearing for the ECI, that sometimes judges make observations in the larger public interest, says a report from LiveLaw . The bench reserved its order on the petition filed by Commission.

Read: Election Commission Is the 'Most Irresponsible Institution' in the Country, Should Be Put up on Murder Charges: Madras HC ) Last week, the High Court had said that officials of ECI should be tried for murder charges for their failure to stop abuse of COVID protocol in political rallies, thereby contributing to the pandemic. (

"You (EC) are the only institution responsible for the situation we are in today and you have been singularly lacking in any kind of exercise of authority. You have not taken measures against political parties holding rallies despite the court saying 'Maintain Covid protocol, maintain Covid protocol'," the bench of chief justice Sanjib Banerjee and justice Senthilkumar Ramamoorthy from Madras HC had said.

Hearing a plea moved by Tamil Nadu state transport minister MR Vijayabhaskar, the bench had said, "Were you on another planet when political rallies were being held? Despite repeated orders of this court going on like a broken record at the foot of at least every election petition entertained that COVID protocol ought to be maintained during the campaign time the significance of adhering to such protocol may have been lost on the Election Commission, going by the puerile silence on the part of the Commission as campaigns and rallies were conducted without distancing norms being maintained and in wanton disregard of the other items of the protocol."

. Raising a strong objection to oral remarks made by the HC, the Election Commission filed a petition in the apex court. During the hearing, the Supreme Court made pertinent oral observations on the role of the media and judicial accountability, says a report from Bar & Bench

Responding to the ECI's prayer to restrain the media from reporting on oral observations made in court, justice Chandrachud says, "ECI is a seasoned constitutional body, which has been entrusted with functions of conducting the elections. In todays times, we cannot say that media will not report the discussions that take place in court."

"The discussions that take place are of importance...and are in the public interest. Its not a monologue that one person will speak and then judges will speak. We have an Indian pattern of arguments in Court...There is an aspect of the application of mind. First prayer of don't report what is said in court was farfetched," justice Chandrachud says.

Quoting the bench, the report says, "The media should be able to report everything also to create accountability. Often the dialogue in court is to create an umbrella of discussion. High Courts are not district courts but have power under Article 226."

Justice Chandrachud pointed out, "Now you have electronic and social media. We are also conscious how we conduct ourselves. I am sure what are we saying is being reported now. But to contain what we want to ask or say in court just because of this, will not do justice to the judicial process."

Referring to the comments made by Madras HC, justice Shah urged the Election Commission to take it in the right spirit. He says, "High Court was considering orders and noted that orders were not followed. It was not impromptu. What is said is said. Take it in the right spirit."
(The Center Square)  President Joe Biden touted a key part of his education initiative Monday, pushing for two years of free community college nationwide, but some critics question the long-term efficacy of his plan.

Biden spoke at Tidewater Community College in Norfolk, Virginia, to promote his proposal, which would provide, among other things, $109 billion for two years of tuition-free community college.

Do we want to give the wealthiest people in America another tax cut, or do you want to give every high school graduate the ability to earn a community college degree?" Biden asked during his speech, arguing that 12 years of schooling is not long enough in the modern economy. Thats why the American Families Plan guarantees four additional years of public education for every person in America  two years of universal, high-quality pre-school and two years of free community college.

Bidens community college proposal comes as part of the American Families Plan, a $1.8 trillion spending proposal that includes a litany of tax credits in addition to paid family leave and federal funding for universal pre-kindergarten.

To pay for it, the White House has proposed raising the capital gains tax from 20% to 39.6% for individuals earning more than $1 million and increasing the highest marginal tax rate by 2.5 percentage points to 39.5%.

The White House released more details about the plan Monday, which would provide tuition-free community college for two years so that first-time students and workers wanting to reskill can enroll in a community college without paying tuition and fees.

The plan would also double scholarships for future teachers to recruit more educators to enter the workforce and create a new fund to provide educators with opportunities to obtain additional certifications in high-demand areas like special education, bilingual education, and certifications that improve teacher performance.

Despite Bidens aggressive spending proposals, the progressive wing of the party is pushing him to do more. Former candidate for president and Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., called on Biden Monday to cancel student debt, adding that then we should invest in free college so that we never have another student debt crisis again.

Pushback and Criticism

Republicans have criticized the proposals for dramatic spikes in federal spending, but a particular provision in Bidens plan has drawn the ire of many conservatives. One provision of the AFP would allow education benefits to extend to "Dreamers," non-citizens who whose parents brought them to the U.S. illegally.

Biden has called on Congress to pass legal protection for the "Dreamers." The AFP would also allow them to receive assistance from the Pell Grant, a grant providing tuition assistance for low-income students that would receive extra funding under the AFP.

Some conservatives have lambasted these provisions, saying American taxpayers should not fund the provision.

Joe Biden continues to incentivize illegal immigration, while blaming his predecessor and kismet for the inevitable results, said Ira Mehlman, spokesperson for FAIR. Everything he has done in his first 100 days has sent a clear signal that not only will illegal immigration be tolerated, it will be rewarded. Leaving aside the obvious question about how he plans to pay for all of his grandiose promises, free college tuition for illegal aliens is yet another costly benefit that he is prepared to bestow on people who violate our immigration laws that will exacerbate the crisis he has already created.

Ironically, in 1996, then-Senator Joe Biden voted for legislation that was intended to bar states from offering subsidized in-state tuition rates to illegal aliens," Mehlman added. "Now he wants to require states to provide free tuition to illegal aliens."

Critics also say the federal payments to community colleges will cause a spike in already sky-high tuition costs.

Its easy to forecast what will happen as President Biden and his razor-thin majority of Democrats in Congress send large amounts of taxpayer money to community colleges... said Sam Karnick, an expert at the Heartland Institute. Once the federal government started sending increasing amounts of money to colleges and universities beginning a half-century ago and accelerating in recent years, tuition prices skyrocketed and the quality of education went down.

Karnick also said the amount of federal spending would have to increase over time.

Congress and the president will of course increase the currently planned [spending] when the tuition hikes and quality declines kick in, Karnick said. The ruin of the nations education system and crushing effect on the economy will then be complete.

These and other concerns will likely cause many Republicans to withhold their support. Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., said Monday that no Republicans will support Bidens two major spending bills, which total roughly $4 trillion.

"I think it's worth talking about but I don't think there will be any Republican support, none, zero, for the $4.1 trillion grab bag which has infrastructure in it but a whole lot of other stuff," McConnell said.

Local Implications

Several states already have tuition assistance programs, raising questions over how those programs will interact and if some states will receive less funding than others because of previously implemented programs.

Twenty-five states already provide community college free to all residents, so this federal money will just allow those states to spend that money elsewhere and will not expand enrollment at all, Karnick said.

The White House also has highlighted the roughly 250 rural community colleges around the nation that serve areas with little access to higher education.

Colleges and universities are important anchor institutions in rural communities, providing jobs to residents, attracting businesses, and boosting local economies, the White House said in a statement.

Like Bidens other spending plans, a lengthy battle in Congress and proposed changes from both sides will determine how this proposal shapes up or if the plan ever becomes reality.

On this National College Signing Day, we celebrate all those students chasing their passions and setting the stage for the future, Biden said. Whether youre committing to community college, technical school, or a four-year college or university  I'm rooting for you in this next big step.
Senator Mitt Romney was greeted by a barrage of insults and boos Saturday from a crowd of delegates at the State Republican Convention.

Romney is the only republican senator to vote to convict Trump in both of his impeachment trials.

Senator Romney told the crowd he "is a man who says what he means, and you know I am not a fan of our last president's character issues."

The disapproval from the crowd only ended after the party chair asked the delegates to show respect for Romney.

Romney is among seven republican senators who joined democrats in voting in favor of convicting the former president for his role in events leading to the January 6th capitol riot.
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Some people are saying that theyre proud that their kids go to such an accepting school, Wise told CNN. There are some students that have told me that theyre comfortable being gay at Kings and theyre more comfortable with themselves now that they feel they have an accepting and supportive student body behind them.
Muskogee, OK (74401)

Today

A few showers this morning. Isolated thunderstorms developing in the afternoon. High around 90F. Winds SE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 30%..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms early, then partly cloudy after midnight. Low 71F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%.
The number of COVID-19 cases reported around the world in the last two weeks was higher than the total of confirmed infections in the first six months of the pandemic, according to the World Health Organization. India and Brazil, which are going through their worst days since the pandemic began, account for more than half of last weeks cases, the agency said.
President Joe Biden announced earlier this year that he would be tasking Vice President Kamala Harris with diplomatic efforts to stem illegal migration. At a White House immigration meeting on March 24, Biden said Harris would lead the administration's efforts with Mexico, El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras to both curb the current flow of migrants. But Harris has yet to make a trip down to the border where Border Patrol facilities are being overwhelmed by an unprecedented number of unaccompanied children. Should Harris visit the southern border with Mexico? Choices are:

You voted:
More than a year after the pandemic shuttered Illinois schools, the vast majority of students have yet to return completely to the classroom  and more than 73,000 still are learning entirely remotely.

In the 154 schools across west-central Illinois, 19,644 of the 51,967 students had returned to in-person learning by the end of April, according to the Illinois State Board of Education. Nearly 165% as many  32,323 students  in the region were being educated through a blended system, which includes both in-person and remote learning.

None of the schools in Morgan, Brown, Cass, Greene, Jersey, Macoupin, Pike, Sangamon, Schuyler and Scott counties was fully remote-only learning. Except for 159 pre-kindergarten through high school students in Brooklyn school district in central Illinois, the 73,765 students who have yet to return to any degree of non-virtual classes are concentrated in the Chicago and northeastern Illinois areas.

Gov. J.B. Pritzker ordered the end of in-person classes in public schools in March 2020 as COVID-19 was burning across the state. By the start of this school year, Illinois Department of Public Health guidelines provided options that included in-person classes, although many districts were cautious in wading back into opening their doors.

There are five school districts in Morgan County  the largest of which is Jacksonville School District 117, which was at the forefront of returning to in-person lessons. In August, the school board said it would judge issues on a site-by-site basis but was committed to keeping students in-person as much as possible. Superintendent Steve Ptacek provided constant updates to the community about the number of COVID-19 cases and quarantines in the district.

At the time, he expressed concerns that delaying the return to the classroom could cause cognitive, emotional and social damage, a consideration supported by a number of studies.

The new face of learning Many schools in west-central Illinois have returned to in-person classes, but others still are using a blend of in-person and remote classes, according to the Illinois State Board of Education. This is a look at where things stood at the end of April: Morgan County - Five districts, 4,501 students: Jacksonville, in person; Franklin, blended; Meredosia-Chambersburg, blended; Triopia, in person; Waverly, blended. Brown County - One district, 737 students: all in person. Cass County - Three districts, 2,223 students: A-C Central, blended; Beardstown, blended; Virginia, blended. Greene County - Three districts, 1,789 students: Carrollton, blended; Greenfield, in person; North Greene, in person. Jersey County - One district, 2564 students: all blended. Macoupin County - Eight districts, 7,987 students: all in person. Pike County - Four districts, 2,393 students: all in person. Sangamon County - 10 districts, 27,937 students: Auburn, in person; Ball Chatham, blended; New Berlin, blended; Pawnee, blended; Pleasant Plains, blended; Riverton, blended; Rochester, blended; Springfield, blended; Tri City, in person; Williamsville, blended. Schuyler County - One district, 1,005 students: all in person. Scott County - Two districts, 831 students: all in person. See More Collapse

In almost all grades, most students made some learning gains in both reading and math since the COVID-19 pandemic started. However, gains in math were lower on average in fall 2020 than prior years, resulting in more students falling behind relative to their prior standing, according to a November report by the non-profit educational research group NWEA.

It determined the risk was particularly pronounced among Black and Latinx students and those with disabilities.

Triopia school district has ended remote-learning for students  except those who have a doctors note  and is returning to full days rather than dismissing an hour early, Superintendent Adam Dean said.

He estimates students have lost 18 days during the regular school year because of changes needed to adapt to pandemic mitigations.

This time has been minutes lost for our students, but we have been in school every day, Dean said. The number of remote learners was limited.

He agreed that online learning isnt for everyone.

Some were good about getting their work done and there were some that didnt, Dean said. In-person is tough to beat.

Although there are differing lines of thinking about whether in-person classes contribute to the spread of coronavirus, many researchers said data indicates the risk is less than in the general community. Dean said a concerted effort is made to ensure safety precautions are followed to lessen the potential.

Its not difficult when you have the right people in place, he said. The head of our maintenance department would stand in the cafeteria and remind students to wash their hands and use hand sanitizer after each meal.

Virginia school district Superintendent Gary DePatis said students have been attending classes in person Monday through Thursday and remotely on Friday since November. Prior to the return, some students were struggling, DePatis said.

You cant replace in-person, he said. There are some things you can adapt for online or distance learning, but being there in the classroom is better.

All three districts in Cass County  Virginia, Beardstown and A-C Central  have some form of blended learning for their 2,223 students, according to the Illinois State Board of Education.

DePatis said the hardest part about returning to classroom learning was the amount of time required to screen everyone before entering school.

Still, he said, the trade off was worth it.

Moving forward, unless something drastic happens, we plan to be completely in-person next year, DePatis said.

Reporter Samantha McDaniel-Ogletree contributed to this article.
The announcement last week that Illinois would lose a congressional seat is the continuation of an trend in the states population since the post-World War II era.

Although Illinois is the sixth-largest state in terms of population, it used to rank even higher.

Illinois was one of three states to lose population between the 2010 and 2020 U.S. Census, joining West Virginia and Mississippi  widely considered two of the poorest states in the country.

The population dip in Illinois was 7,893 in that span. It was the first time that the Land of Lincoln had dropped in residency from one census to another since statehood in 1818.

While Illinois had increased in population in every census until 2020, the rate of growth was smaller than other states, particularly in the South and West. A half century ago, Illinois registered a population of just over 11.1 million in the 1970 census, a number that grew to over 12.8 million in 2010.

By comparison, the population of California and North Carolina nearly doubled from 1970 to 2010, while Florida nearly tripled. Both Georgia and Texas had more than twice the population in 2010 than it did 40 years earlier.

As a result, Illinois has seen a constant decline in congressional seats since 1940, when the state had 27. The state is now projected to have 17 seats.

From 1860 to 1960, Illinois ranked no lower than fourth in the nation in population, rising as high as third in each census from 1890 to 1940. Neighboring states were also among national population leaders, as Missouri was fourth in 1880 and was in the top 10 in each census from 1860 to 1940.

Indiana was in the top 10 each time from 1850 to 1910, while Iowa ranked 10th in 1880, 1890 and 1900.

Like the states, many Midwestern cities have experienced severe population declines since the mid-20th century. In 1900, St. Louis trailed only New York, Chicago and Philadelphia in population, with 575,238 residents, giving rise to the nickname of The Fourth City. St. Louis was one of the 10 largest cities in the U.S. in every census between 1850 and 1960.

Today, St. Louis is the 21st-largest metropolitan area in the United States, fueled by the growth of the suburbs. The city of St. Louis itself ranked only 62nd in the nation in population in 2017, with 308,626 residents, down from 856,796 in 1950.

Similarly, both Pittsburgh and Cleveland have less than half the population as in 1950, while Detroit is nearly a third of its size in that census. Chicago population is down nearly 25% from 1950.

Not all Midwestern cities are dropping. Indianapolis doubled its population from 1950, registering 863,002 residents by 2017.

But the greatest jumps are in the South and West. Las Vegas spiked from 24,624 in 1950 to nearly 641,676 in 2017, while Phoenix went from 106,818 to more than 1.6 million. Dallas and Fort Worth each have tripled, while San Antonio and Houston both rose more than fourfold, and Austin jumped from 132,459 in 1950 to 950,715 in 2020. The population in Charlotte was more than six times higher in 2017 than it was in 1950.

In San Jose, the population skyrocketed from 95,280 in 1950 to just over 1 million in 2017, more than a ten-fold increase.

The southern and western shifts are reflected in the change in the location of the mean U.S. population, which has continually moved westward. From 1950 to 1970, the center was in Illinois, gradually moving from north of Olney to northwest of Centralia to southeast of Mascoutah. The 2010 center was in Texas County, in southern Missouri, and is project to be Wright County, Missouri, this year.
William Kent Hannant had no political experience when he joined the race for Jacksonvilles Ward 3 alderman.

It was something I always talked about doing, the 50-year-old Hannant said, but I was always that guy that didnt like everything that went on in politics.

Hannant is now one of three newly elected first-time aldermen. He was sworn in April 26 and will experience his first City Council meeting as an elected public official on May 10.

The journey has been a whirlwind for Hannant, who received the exact number of votes in the April 6 election, 169, as the incumbent, Brandon Adams. The winner had to be determined by a card draw supervised by the Morgan County states attorney and county clerk.

Brandon drew the 3 and that was kind of a relief, then when I flipped over the 4, I was like, no way can this be this close, Hannant said. I was looking forward to it all being over either way on election night, then it dragged out a lot longer.

More Information If you have a suggestion about someone who should be profiled, send their name and any contact information available to communitynews@myjournalcourier.com. See More Collapse

I kind of accepted the fact that God gave us both a gracious way to lose. No matter what, we didnt lose by votes, and most candidates dont have that option, Hannant said. But at the same time, we cant really say that we won by the peoples vote either. So I kind of feel bad for Brandon, but it could have gone the same way for me.

Hannant decided to take the political plunge after he moved to a daytime position at Reynolds Consumer Products three years ago, which gave him a more normal life to pursue some things he has wanted to do. Hannant received advice for his aldermanic bid from his friend, former Alderman Marcy Patterson.

The COVID-19 pandemic proved to be a challenge as Hannant campaigned throughout the ward. He wasnt sure what to expect, but the experience proved to be positive for him.

Youd come up to some peoples houses that are masking up and other people were wanting to shake your hand and invite you in to talk, Hannant said. It was really nice getting out and talking to people. A lot of people were very enthusiastic about having somebody talk to them.

I didnt have anybody who was rude and I was surprised by that, Hannant said. I just figured most people didnt want you knocking on their door.

Hannant listened to constituent concerns while campaigning. Many ward residents were worried about the disposition of the vacated Jacksonville Developmental Center property, and Hannant promised to keep that matter on the front burner as part of his City Council service.

There were also questions about renewed activity at the old Hillcrest Mobile Home Park near Lincoln Square Shopping Center, and Hannant was able to discover that trailers are simply being stored there and no rezoning plans are afoot to bring a trailer park back to the area.

Hannant is a Republican and places a high priority on fiscal responsibility.

I think if youre an American and you dont think the government wastes a lot of money, then youre not paying enough attention, Hannant said. I think we spend our money in places we shouldnt be spending it.

Hannant said he feels that Jacksonville is a good community and a great place to live, but has its issues like any small community right now. As an alderman, hed like to explore ways to get more people into the workforce locally and to keep sprucing up the community to make it more inviting for both current and future businesses.

Hannant, a lifelong Jacksonville resident, attended North Jacksonville Elementary and Salem Lutheran grade schools, graduated from Jacksonville High School and attended Lincoln Land Community College. While at Lincoln Land, he took part in a college work program during the summer of 1991 at what was then Mobil Chemical Co. The industry is now known as Reynolds Consumer Products, and Hannant has been there for 30 years. He does preventive maintenance on the production lines.

Hannants wife, Shelly, is a District 117 educator. He has a 20-year-old son, Cole Butler, who attends the University of Wisconsin at Platteville studying engineering, and an 18-year-old son, Eric Hannant, who is getting ready to graduate from Jacksonville High School.

Im a family man and I like to spend time with my dogs, Hannant said. We like to take family walks with the dogs around our neighborhood.

Hannant is an avid military historian and spent a month in 2019 visiting World War II sites across Europe, including areas on both the eastern and western fronts of the war.

Just seeing their cultures and how people lived gave me a different perspective on things, he said.

For now, Hannant is busy learning the ropes of being an alderman.

I dont think anybody just walks in and knows how to be an alderman. Ill probably pay attention to everybody else and ask a lot of questions, Hannant said. When constituents call with a concern, Ill hear what they have to say and do what I can for them.
South Jacksonville trustees are scheduled to meet in special session at 7 p.m. today in Village Hall at 301 Dewey Drive.

On the agenda is discussion of settlement terms for Jacksonville Affordable Housing vs. Village of South Jacksonville.
ARENZVILLE  The Western Illinois University School of Agriculture and corporate partner CoverCress Inc. will host a field day at Burrus Seed Farms research plots beginning at 9 a.m. Friday.

Congressmen Darin LaHood and Rodney Davis are scheduled to attend the event, which is dedicated to field pennycress and the efforts to begin its commercialization.
The captain of an overcrowded boat that capsized off the San Diego coast has been taken into custody as authorities suspect the vessel was being used in a human smuggling attempt when it crashed into a reef Sunday morning, killing at least three people and hurting more than two dozen others.
Rap rhythm from Rio de Janeiros favelas causing a stir View Photo

RIO DE JANEIRO (AP)  First, Vitor Oliveira sold the ground floor of the bare-bones brick building he constructed near the top of his sprawling favela in Rio de Janeiro. Then he sold one of two second-floor apartments. Then his car.

Its all for the music  for trap de cria, a new kind of hip hop that evokes gang life in Rios favelas.

Oliveira, 31, plowed the proceeds into constructing a tiny recording studio and editing room in the buildings final apartment. He returns there from his job  driving his motorcycle taxi up and down Rocinha, one of Latin Americas largest slums  to work at churning out 18 tracks and accompanying videos.

Trap de cria (rough translation: homegrown trap) is the fresh sound of this and other favelas, and remains largely unknown outside of them. Featuring a lyrical flow over synthesized drums, it is an offshoot of Atlanta-style trap and speaks to the day-to-day struggles of hardscrabble hoods.

Except most of these rappers arent actual gangsters, though their millions of YouTube viewers wouldnt know it from their videos that show them flaunting what appear to be real guns in working-class neighborhoods dominated by drug traffickers.

Homegrown traps bravado at times appears harmless dress-up, and at others aspirational glorification of a life in crime. The artists grew up beside boys who became lookouts, runners and enforcers for gangs. Some are still friendly.

Our weapon is our voice, our ammunition is our lyrics, Filipe Toledo, who raps as Lidinho 22, said as he popped a magazine into a plastic airsoft gun. Then he aimed its muzzle at the camera. Boom.

Not everyone is a fan. Last year, Rio police launched an investigation into a video by Marcos Borges and Ivens Santos, 22-year-olds rapping under the names MbNaVoz and Dom Melodia. Police are looking into how they obtained SUVs and whether real guns were used. The clip has been viewed 4 million times.

Brazils civil police said that Borges and Santos face accusations of inciting crime and association with drug trafficking, and could be indicted for illegally carrying firearms if its confirmed they were real.

Freedom of expression has a limit, and the limit is when a crime is committed. We understand a crime was committed, police detective Allan Duarte told television channel SBT. We cannot let children idolize these people who carry guns and practice crimes.

Borges looks the menacing part: He has an Uzi tattooed on his neck. But he dismisses official criticism.

We have to portray what we live, he said in an interview, as he smoked marijuana. We cant sing about a woman walking Copacabanas sidewalk or skateboarding if we didnt live that. I go out of my house and see crazy stuff all the time. You got me? Thats how it is in the favela.

Borges said they organized the shoot the same day as an illegal street race, and participants loaned them cars. He said they used airsoft guns, and doing otherwise would be idiotic.

The Associated Press checked out guns used for music videos while reporting in six favelas over eight days, and all were airsofts, including the rifles Borges and Santos brandished for an April 11 shoot. It also featured wads of fake bills; together, the two make the equivalent of one minimum-wage income from YouTube.

They even changed the location of a shoot from a barbecue where they had planned to film, because they couldnt afford to feed the traffickers who gathered there.

Gangs control many favelas that are home to 1.7 million people in Rios metro region, according to the 2010 census. Services are limited, as are chances of making it out of the favela.

No one wants to hear kids are dying, young people are dying, that they didnt give us opportunities, said Thaina Denicia, 23, a former stripper who raps as Thai Flow.

Denicia doesnt feature guns in her videos, nor judge those who do; her father was a trafficker and she grew up with crime inside her home. She wants to resonate in her cluster of favelas, Complexo do Alemao, and provide a window for outsiders who dont know the first thing about their lives.

I talk about the characters crime created, society created, and where we can go and who we can be, she added.

But popularity risks notoriety. Last year, when a rapper dissed city councilman Gabriel Monteiro, the former military police officer told his 6 million social media followers the supposed artists glorify crime and debase decent society. In February, a state lawmaker denounced homegrown traps malign influence, sharing a music video of motorcyclists brandishing rifles.

Is this the culture you want for your children? he asked on Instagram.

This isnt the first music born of Rios majority Black and biracial communities to stir consternation. A century ago, police arrested samba musicians for as little as playing pandeiro, a hand drum.

In the 1990s, funk and hip-hop musicians had their turn. Lacking the means to record videos, musicians entertained at massive funk dances in the favelas, said Janaina Medeiros, a journalist who authored the book Rio Funk: Crime or Culture? As CDs of prohibited funk referencing gangs became popular, authorities cracked down on the dances.

The whole movement was seen as an evil incarnation, like a big virus that was going to contaminate society, glamorize crime and kidnap good girls from their families, Medeiros said.

Funk was the soundtrack of Vitor Oliveiras adolescence, and he started making his own music. With homegrown trap, he discovered a genre more open to self-expression, and was hooked.

Not 100 feet from his studio, cocaine and marijuana are sold by young men ambling about with semi-automatics. Oliveira says he ran occasional errands for the gang, but only when desperate for cash.

Theres evidently good will. Before he shot a video on March 6, traffickers removed rings from their fingers and pulled heavy gold chains from their necks for Oliveiras use.

Under the name MC Piloto, he has recorded 10 tracks and two videos for his 18-song project. Success can sometimes seem a distant dream, but he envisions himself dodging all pitfalls.

You think (the state) isnt going to worry seeing a Black man doing well in this life? Damn. Its going to try to trip me up, he said. But Im prepared to jump off.

By FELIPE DANA and DAVID BILLER

Associated Press
New Zealand leader Ardern takes tougher stance on China View Photo

WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP)  New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern took a tougher stance on Chinas human rights record Monday by saying it was getting harder to reconcile differences as Chinas role in the world grows.

While Arderns language remained moderate when compared with that of many other leaders, it still marked a significant shift for a country which relies on China as its largest trading partner. Ardern in past speeches has often avoided direct criticism of China.

New Zealand has been trying to strike the right tone on China in recent weeks after finding itself on the defensive with its Five Eyes security allies by resisting speaking out in unison with them against China on certain human rights issues.

New Zealand Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta caused a diplomatic stir last month when she discussed her reluctance to expand the role of the Five Eyes to include joint positions on human rights. The alliance among New Zealand, the U.S., the U.K, Australia and Canada has its origins in World War II cooperation.

In her speech to the China Business Summit in Auckland on Monday, Ardern said New Zealand has raised grave concerns with China on human rights issues, including the situation of Uyghurs in the Xinjiang region and people who live in Hong Kong.

And it will not have escaped the attention of anyone here that as Chinas role in the world grows and changes, the differences between our systems  and the interests and values that shape those systems  are becoming harder to reconcile, Ardern told the audience.

Stephen Noakes, the director of the China Studies Centre at the University of Auckland, said he wouldnt have expected to hear such language from New Zealand even a couple of years ago. He said some of it sounded like a wink to the Five Eyes to let them know that although New Zealand might have economic dependencies on China, it wasnt being soft.

Noakes said that because Chinas relationships with both Australia and Canada have deteriorated so rapidly in the last few years, it has made New Zealands rosier relationship stick out like a sore thumb.

Still, Noakes said, he didnt expect the change in New Zealands rhetoric to have any negative impact on its trade with China. And he said New Zealands relatively moderate stance could make it a useful go-between in the future between China and other Five Eyes members.

New Zealand has stopped short of calling the Uyghur abuses genocide, language that the U.S. and some other countries have used.

New Zealands cultural and economic ties to China are particularly strong among the Five Eyes allies. New Zealand was the first developed nation to sign a free trade deal with China in 2008, leading to a boom in exports of New Zealand milk powder and other products. China now buys twice as much from New Zealand as New Zealands next biggest market, Australia.

By NICK PERRY

Associated Press
California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation seal View Photo

Sonora, CA  A Tuolumne County man who was serving prison time for second-degree murder and arson of an inhabited structure back in 1985 has been granted parole by a state panel.

Officials were investigating a mobile home fire that occurred on May 2 of that year. They spoke with Gregory Todd Byers, who was 19 at the time, who admitted to starting the fire. He also told officials that he killed his brother, Douglas Elliott, three days earlier and dumped the body into Lake Don Pedro. The brother was later recovered from the reservoir and determined to have died from gunshot wounds.

Byers, severing a 15-years-to-life sentence, was paroled in 2011 but went on to commit parole violations, including felony vandalism, so he was recommitted to state prison in 2014. He has now been paroled again, citing a minimal criminal history. The decision was opposed by the Tuolumne County District Attorneys Office. The panels decision will now be under review for 120 days before taking effect. Byers will be paroled unless Governor Gavin Newsom reverses the decision.
Chauvin juror defends participation in Washington protest View Photo

MINNEAPOLIS (AP)  One of the jurors who convicted Derek Chauvin in the murder of George Floyd on Monday defended his participation in a protest last summer in Washington, D.C., following online speculation about his motives for serving on the jury and whether it might be grounds for appeal.

A photo, posted on social media, shows Brandon Mitchell, who is Black, attending the Aug. 28 event to commemorate Martin Luther King Jr.s I Have a Dream speech during the 1963 March on Washington. Floyds brother and sister, Philonise and Bridgett Floyd, and relatives of others who have been shot by police addressed the crowd.

That photo recently recirculated online, the Star Tribune reported.

It shows Mitchell standing with two cousins and wearing a T-shirt with a picture of King and the words, GET YOUR KNEE OFF OUR NECKS and BLM, for Black Lives Matter. Chauvin knelt on Floyds neck for 9 minutes, 29 seconds last May as Floyd said repeatedly that he couldnt breathe.

Mitchell, 31, acknowledged being at the event and that his uncle posted the photo, but said he doesnt recall wearing or owning the shirt.

Mitchell was one of 12 jurors who convicted Chauvin of second- and third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter. Mitchell, the first juror to go public, spoke to several media outlets last week, including The Associated Press.

Id never been to D.C., Mitchell said of his reasons for attending the event. The opportunity to go to D.C., the opportunity to be around thousands and thousands of Black people; I just thought it was a good opportunity to be a part of something.

Mitchell and Chauvins attorney, Eric Nelson, have not returned messages from The Associated Press seeking comment.

Mike Brandt, a Minneapolis defense attorney not involved in the case, told the AP the revelation alone wasnt nearly enough to overturn Chauvins conviction, but it could be combined with other issues  the announcement of a massive civil settlement to Floyds family during jury selection, the shooting of Daunte Wright, the judges refusal to move the trial  in an appeal to say Chauvin was denied a fair trial.

Ted Sampsell-Jones, a professor at the Mitchell Hamline School of Law, told the AP that the photo of Mitchell was evidence that Chauvin can point to in order to establish that his right to an impartial jury was denied.

He added: Speaking frankly, Chauvin did not have a fully impartial jury in the sense we usually give criminal defendants. That wasnt the fault of the judge or the prosecutors, it was simply a function of the incredible publicity and public pressure surrounding the trial.

Mitchell said he answered no to two questions about demonstrations on the questionnaire sent out before jury selection.

The first question asked: Did you, or someone close to you, participate in any of the demonstrations or marches against police brutality that took place in Minneapolis after George Floyds death? The second asked: Other than what you have already described above, have you, or anyone close to you, participated in protests about police use of force or police brutality?

Mitchell told Nelson during jury selection that he had a very favorable opinion of Black Lives Matter, that he knew some police officers at his gym who are great guys, and that he felt neutral about Blue Lives Matter, a pro-police group. He also said he had watched clips of bystander video of Floyd being pinned and had wondered why three other officers at the scene didnt intervene.

He said he could be neutral at trial.

Mitchell told the Star Tribune that last summers protest was 100% not a march for Floyd.

It was directly related to MLKs March on Washington from the 60s  The date of the March on Washington is the date  It was literally called the anniversary of the March on Washington, he said.

___

Find APs full coverage of the death of George Floyd at: https://apnews.com/hub/death-of-george-floyd
Biden promotes education spending at stops in Virginia View Photo

PORTSMOUTH, Va. (AP)  President Joe Biden traveled Monday to coastal Virginia to promote his plans to increase spending on education and children, part of his $1.8 trillion families proposal announced last week.

Visiting Tidewater Community College with first lady Jill Biden, the president discussed his $109 billion proposal to provide Americans with two years of tuition-free community college. Hes also seeking over $80 billion for Pell Grants to help college affordability and $62 billion for programs that could improve completion rates at community colleges and institutions that predominantly serve disadvantaged students.

The president said that education was the key to the countrys dominance and that people needed classes beyond high school for the nation to be globally competitive.

When America made 12 years of public education universal in America in the early 1900s, it made us the best educated nation in the world, Biden said. The rest of the world has caught up to us. Theyre not waiting. And 12 years is no longer enough to compete with the world in the 21st century and lead the 21st century.

Community college is an issue of personal importance to the Bidens. The first lady is an English professor at Northern Virginia Community College in Alexandria.

My students, like all the students here, Im sure, come from every walk of life, she said. They show up, they dont complain, and all they ask is for one thing in return: the chance to work hard and build a good life for themselves and their families.

Biden joked that advocacy for community colleges was crucial for his own marital happiness.

I have to admit if I didnt have these positions Id be sleeping on Lincoln bedroom, the president teased.

There is uncertainty about Biden getting an ambitious set of spending programs through narrow Democratic majorities in Congress. He has proposed a combined $4.1 trillion to be spent on infrastructure, broadband, new school buildings, electric vehicle charging stations, the power grid, child tax credits and child care, among other programs.

All of that would be mostly financed by higher taxes on corporations and the wealthy, an idea that has met immediate opposition from Republicans.

The Bidens began their trip by touring a fifth grade class at Yorktown Elementary School.

The president went around asking the students, What do you want to be when you grow up?

A fashion designer, one student responded.

A chef, another said, to which Biden replied, Holy mackerel, Ill be darned!

A hairdresser, one student said. Biden quipped: I could use some, some hair, I mean.

By JOSH BOAK and ALEXANDRA JAFFE

Associated Press
A company statement credits the return of live events, as well as input from customers and regulators for the policy change. Stubhub also claimed that only now has it been able to coordinate with Viagogo, which became its parent company in February 2020.
Phill Magakoe/AFP via Getty Images

The Plainview-Hale County Health Department will host Moderna COVID-19 vaccine clinics on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 9 a.m.  noon and 1-4 p.m. at the Plainview  Hale County Health Department, located at 111 E. 10th Street.

Appointments are recommended and can be made by calling 806.291.1201 or visiting www.plainviewtx.org. Clinics will continue as long as vaccines are available and everyone age 18 and up is eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine in Texas.
WALLINGFORD  The school district has already begun the search for a new superintendent, starting with a request for proposals from candidate search firms.

Board of Education Chairperson Karen Hlavac said Monday that the job  to be vacated at the end of the school year by Superintendent Salvatore Menzo  will be posted this week, meaning it will open at the same time to both internal and external candidates.

Hlavac said the board intends to ask the search firm to coordinate the candidate application and develop a survey to send to the community, family and staff.

She said the board is hoping to appoint a new superintendent by June 30, which is the end of the school year.

Menzo, who has been leading the school district for 12 years, recently accepted a job at Goodwin University as superintendent of magnet schools.

I've learned so much personally and professionally (in Wallingford) that I'm just ready for the next challenge, he said Monday.

While Menzo will be a Goodwin employee, the magnet schools are operated by LEARN, a regional educational service center based in Old Lyme.

Goodwin University runs two magnet schools, both located in East Hartford  Riverside Magnet School for grades pre-K to 5 and Connecticut River Academy for grades 6 to 12.

A student who goes into that system could actually go to preschool through college or university, Menzo said. I think that was something that excited me as well  learning about the magnet school system but also learning about the university system, and working in a unique environment in which the two are married so nicely together.

Connecticut River Academys curriculum is focused on environmental science, advanced manufacturing and workforce development  which is something Menzo said appealed to him about the job.

Goodwin and the Wallingford school district have an existing professional development partnership. Goodwin staff have helped develop the advanced manufacturing curriculum, and the school is a donor towards the Aerospace Center in the Center for Innovation and Design.

There's going to be the continued partnership with Wallingford, Menzo said, which is also something that was exciting for me, in the sense that I wouldn't be severing ties totally. There will be those opportunities for collaboration and partnership.

One of his first duties, he said, is developing a team to identify areas to continue innovations in the existing magnet schools, and also looking at expanding opportunities for students to go from high school into the university.

I've been given an opportunity by this Board of Education to really be as innovative as possible, he said, but I think what really hit home to me was that in one of the conversations I had with them (Goodwin), they said they were looking to hire a master chef to be given the ingredients to make the best dishes possible for their students. And I think that spoke to me, because that's what any educator would love to have, that next step to have a canvas on which he or she could create.

Goodwin acquired the University of Bridgeport earlier this year. Menzo said he may be working on projects to bring educational opportunities to the Bridgeport area.

High regard

The former superintendent of Goodwins magnet schools, Craig Drezek, died in June 2020 after battling COVID-19. Drezek, 49, was a Meriden native and 1989 Maloney High School graduate.

An interim superintendent, Freeman Burr, had been filling in since Drezeks death. Among Burrs responsibilities was facilitating the search for a permanent superintendent, Goodwin spokesperson Philip Moore said Monday.

Menzo, 50, is a West Hartford resident. He came to Wallingford from the superintendent position at Marlborough Public Schools in July 2009.

He holds a doctorate in education leadership from the University of Connecticut. Before becoming superintendent in Marlborough, he was a language arts teacher in the Windham school district and served as vice principal and principal of Silas Deane Middle School in Wethersfield.

Menzos current salary is $203,911  making him the highest paid town employee in Wallingford.

Mayor William W. Dickinson Jr. said Monday that he has high regard for Menzo.

I think he's been a very energetic and charismatic leader for the public education in town, he said. He has shown great concern for our students having opportunities to learn, and emphasized the importance of learning.

Dickinson said he hopes the new superintendent will work to combat any learning loss that exists as a result of the pandemic.

Good work was performed in order to meet that emergency, he said, If my reading of surveys and statistics on the state level are true, for Connecticut and for Wallingford, there has been a slipping of the quantity and quality of learning for many students. Certainly we need to be very conscious of that, and help them to recover the lost time.

On the map

The school board accepted Menzos resignation Friday during a special board meeting.

Hlavac said Monday that Menzo has done an excellent job of moving our district forward.

He really provided our students with enhanced and enriched educational opportunities, she said, citing Menzos efforts to establish the Center for Innovation and Design and the partnership with the Early College Advanced Manufacturing Pathway.

School board member Mike Votto was chairperson of the board when Menzo was hired in 2009.

I feel that he has certainly put Wallingford on the educational map in Connecticut, Votto said Monday, from the things that he has been involved in and what he initiated in town.

Votto said Menzo was the one who broke out the school budget into sustained services  what the school district needs day to day to function  and the strategic plan  larger, long term projects with less of an immediate need.

Menzo also developed a valuable rapport with community leaders.

During his tenure, we received dozens of donations, thousands of dollars, from various groups within the town and in the state, he said, which was fabulous because he had a way of developing those relationships.

We're extremely thankful for what he's done for our students, Hlavac said, and we're excited and happy for him as he takes this new position.

LTakores@record-journal.com203-317-2212Twitter: @LCTakores
When Miranda Lambert walked offstage at Denvers Pepsi Center on March 2nd, 2020, it marked the last time she would perform in front of paying fans for more than a year. That dry spell came to an end last week when Lambert played her first three of five scheduled indoor concerts at Billy Bobs Texas in Fort Worth.

A cavernous 100,000-square-foot space, Billy Bobs has become a live-music institution in Texas since opening in 1981. Willie Nelson, Garth Brooks, and ZZ Top have all performed there. Johnny Cash, Chuck Berry, and Bob Hope once headlined a New Years Eve party at the club. And in the coming days, artists like Thomas Rhett, Gary Allan, and Lynyrd Skynyrd will take the stage as part of the honky-tonks ongoing 40th anniversary celebration  even as the Covid-19 pandemic remains a threat. While nearly 10.7 million of the states 29 million residents have received at least one dose of a Covid-19 vaccine, the Texas Department of State Health Services reported 1,390 new cases and seven deaths on Monday.

Lambert says she didnt hesitate about making her live concert return at Billy Bobs.

I got the call about Billy Bobs wanting to do a few nights and I didnt even think twice. Im ready to roll. Im ready to play. Im ready to come home and play, the Texas native told Rolling Stone during an interview for an upcoming story about The Marfa Tapes, her new album with fellow Texans Jack Ingram and Jon Randall.

Any nerves Lambert may have had were more about shaking off the rust than performing in a packed club during a pandemic.

Im a little nervous, because I havent played. I played one private show in August and that was my only show in over a year, she says. What better place to get your feet wet a little bit than home. My mom bought 44 tickets just for my family and friends on [opening night], and theyre sitting in the front row. Shes like, If you melt down, we know the words, dont worry. I cant think of a better way to jump back in there.

Lambert neednt have worried about forgetting lyrics. During her performance of The House That Built Me last Thursday, the audience  seated at long communal tables on the clubs main floor  all but sang the nostalgic ballad for her, moving Lambert to tears.

Despite Governor Greg Abbotts decree in March that Texas was open 100 percent, Billy Bobs  like other venues around the state  continues to operate at a reduced capacity. The 6,000-capacity club put 3,000 tickets on sale for each of Lamberts shows; all sold out. A message on Billy Bobs website reminds patrons of their civic duty: All guests must be responsible for their personal safety and the safety of others. Mask wearing is encouraged, but not required, and temperature checks are conducted at the door.

Cameron Duddy, whose band Midland played three 3,000-capacity shows at Billy Bobs in April, says he likes the incremental way the club has responded to Gov. Abbotts blanket reopening order.

It just kind of seemed like going from holding a girls hand to marrying her in the span of an evening, Duddy says of the governors rush to not just loosen but drop Covid restrictions across Texas. Billy Bobs could have easily just been like, Alright, were going on sale at one hundred percent capacity! And they didnt. I think that as long as people are taking it upon themselves to be as safe as possible and doing the things that you feel comfortable doing, then you are making the right decision.

Thomas Rhett kicks off his five-show run at the venue on May 6th and is bolstered by both the clubs safety protocols and rising vaccinations across the state, where anyone over 18 can receive a shot. But he admits he had some initial reservations about performing indoors during the pandemic.

How can you not? Rhett tells Rolling Stone. Obviously, safety is the first thing for everybody. When they started to book a bunch of different artists and they had a plan in place on how to execute that, it was something I felt like was a good move. Especially getting to watch Midland do it a couple weeks ago, and especially with a lot of people getting vaccinated, it feels like were moving toward that more normal pattern of life. Obviously, the virus is a very real thing, but I think with all these health experts coming out and talking about all this stuff, I feel like were definitely moving in the right direction.

Marty Travis, the general manager of Billy Bobs, considers the concerts hes put on so far to be a success for the venue, the artists, and the guests. He says Billy Bobs hasnt been a hot spot for Covid outbreaks and is planning to increase the clubs capacity from 3,000 to 3,500 in June for shows by Lynyrd Skynyrd and Brantley Gilbert. Hes targeting 4,000 by August.

If we can just dodge this for a couple more months and the vaccine really outruns the cases, then we come out of this smelling like a rose, says Travis, who received his second dose of the vaccine earlier this month and hopes his fellow Texans do likewise. Theres no reason anybody shouldnt get it. Theres just no reason to not be respectful of your fellow man.

But Travis also admits that patrons, exhausted after months of restrictions, are raring to go. Photos and videos of Lamberts and Midlands recent shows at Billy Bobs depicted a raucous, tightly packed main floor. In Texas now, its almost like nobody cares anymore, Travis says. And we dont enforce social distancing, we just offer it. Theres plenty of room for people to get around. But most people when that show gets started, they want to be as close as they can be.

I get up and intro the shows every night, he continues. I tell people, Look, you have a choice. If you choose to wear a mask, we respect you for that and appreciate your effort. If you choose not to wear masks, we support you for that as well. And the crowd goes crazy when you say no mask.'

Matt Graham, Midlands manager, didnt see many fans wearing masks at Billy Bobs at the Midland show he attended, but he says the concerts demystified the idea of playing indoors during Covid. Theyre an example that indoor shows can happen at this stage in the pandemic, especially if band members and crew are vaccinated. (Midland are.) Graham says fans have to gauge their own level of comfort and risk.

My principal concern has been what is the band comfortable with and how do we make sure that the fans are aware of the logistics of whats happening at the show, he says. At the end of the day, anyone going to a Midland show is a grownup. We all lived through this pandemic for over a year now and we understand the risks. We understand how this thing spreads. People are able to assess at this point if this is for them. Thats different than last summer, where we really didnt know how it all worked.

He says artists like Lambert, Rhett, and Midland are choosing Billy Bobs to make their live indoor return for reasons both practical and financial: Its a combination of Texas reopening before other states, the crowds willingness to let artists work out the kinks, and the cost effectiveness of the venue itself.

You dont need an arena setup to go in there. And they do so well at the bars that they can pay really healthy fees to these artists. Its a really nice fit for Miranda or Thomas where they can go down, get compensated in a small room for them, and everybody wins, he says.

When Billy Bobs reopened late last summer and began hosting shows by Texas artists like Flatland Cavalry, Randy Rogers, and Koe Wetzel, the concerts seemed like a regional phenomenon. But the February announcement of Lamberts residency, with Rhetts following shortly after, indicated national stars were also willing to test the waters. Now, the honky-tonk looks like it was ahead of the curve. In just the past few days, Luke Bryan, Dierks Bentley, and the Cadillac Three have all announced a return to indoor shows, both in clubs and arenas.

On Friday, Thomas Rhett will release his new album, Country Again. He views his Billy Bobs residency as a way to debut new material and clear out the cobwebs, but also a chance to move forward  however tentatively. A lot of us artists are pretty rusty at this point, he says. Its our first step back into what seems remotely normal.

(Additional reporting by Jon Freeman and Claire Shaffer)
San Antonio businesses are celebrating the "classrooms heroes" who shifted plans and kept kids engaged throughout the pandemic this Teacher's Appreciation Week.

The week, which honors the profession which shapes young lives away from home, is getting extra credit this year as the world shows thanks for educators who carried on teaching throughout the challenges brought on by COVID-19.
Courtesy of the Bryce Strong Foundation

Future generations of the Converse community will be able to remember the young teen who inspired locals with his courageous battle with cancer for years to come.

The City of Converse made major moves to remember one of their own, Bryce Wisdom. The Judson High School student touched the lives of San Antonians last year as the teen battled kidney cancer before passing away last July. In his memory, Converse Mayor Al Suarez proclaimed May 1 as Bryce Strong Day as well as announced the addition of a new street to be named Bryce Wisdom Way.
3 1 of 3 Carlos Javier Sanchez | Contributor / Show More Show Less 2 of 3 Carlos Javier Sanchez | Contributor Show More Show Less 3 of 3





The owner of a San Antonio dog training school was sentenced Friday to almost 10 years in prison for defrauding more than $1.5 million from the federal government, the Department of Justice said.

In November, 49-year-old Bradley Lane Croft, the owner of Universal K-9, was convicted of eight counts of wire fraud, four counts of aggravated identity theft, two counts of money laundering and two counts of making a false tax return. He was sentenced to 118 months in prison and ordered to pay back $1,506,758 in restitution.
Damaged fencing near the intersection of U.S. Highway 59 and Farm-to-Market Road 796 in Live Oak County is evidence of an April 19 incident involving a group of illegal aliens who drove through the fence while trying to evade capture by law-enforcement personnel. Scenes like these are becoming all too common in South Texas as lawmen grapple with a surge of undocumented people entering the United States via the state's southern border.
By Jerri-Lynn Scofield, who has worked as a securities lawyer and a derivatives trader. She is currently writing a book about textile artisans.

The European Union (EU) today floated a proposal to allow some travellers full-vaccinated against COVID-19 to enter the bloc, more than a year after slamming shut entry from most non-EU visitors.

Currently, the EU only allows non-essential travel from seven countries with extremely low infection rates: Australia, China, New Zealand, Rwanda, Singapore, South Korea, and Thailand.

EU Commission president Ursula von der Leyen presented the new framework. Axios reports that full approval by EU member states could occur by May 7. The proposal includes an emergency brake mechanism, which would allow the EU to announce future restrictions, in the event of a surge in COVID-19 cases from a country. Recently, as a response to the calamitous surge in Indian cases, many countries, including Australia, the UK, and the U.S., have banned all incoming flights from India.

Time to revive  tourism industry & for cross-border friendships to rekindle  safely. We propose to welcome again vaccinated visitors & those from countries with a good health situation. But if variants emerge we have to act fast: we propose an EU emergency brake mechanism.  Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) May 3, 2021

The EU is trying to develop a coordinated if not uniform response across the 27 member states to allow for non-essential  aka tourist  travel from non-EU countries, but each EU member state sets its own border policy, and the bloc has struggled to achieve consensus on the issue.

Tourist Industry Pressure

The new EU measures are a response to pressure from its tourist industry, which has been decimated by the pandemic.

The Local It reports that some EU member states had been exploring their own reopening plans before the EU proposal was floated:

Several EU member states have already announced their own plans for reopening, including France which proposes allowing all vaccinated tourists from outside the EU from June 9th, and Spain which is talking to the UK government directly about access for British tourists this summer.

Greece was planning on opening up to full-vaccinated or COVID-tested travellers from mid-May, according to CNN:.

According to the Commissions press release:

The Commission proposes that Member States lift restrictions on non-essential travel for vaccinated persons travelling to the EU. This reflects the latest scientific advice showing that vaccination considerably helps to break the transmission chain. Member States should allow travel into the EU of those people who have received, at least 14 days before arrival, the last recommended dose of a vaccine having received marketing authorisation in the EU. Member States could also extend this to those vaccinated with a vaccine having completed the WHO emergency use listing process. In addition, if Member States decide to waive the requirements to present a negative PCR test and/or to undergo quarantine for vaccinated persons on their territory, they should also waive such requirements for vacccinated travellers from outside the EU.

Jerri-Lynn here. The four vaccines currently licensed for use in the EU are Johnson & Johnson Moderna, Oxford/AstraZeneca and Pfizer BioNTech.

Emergency Brake Mechanism

The proposal allows the EU to close borders again quickly if the epidemiological situation of a country worsens. From the press release:

When the epidemiological situation of a non-EU country worsens quickly and in particular if a variant of concern or interest is detected, a Member State can urgently and temporarily suspend all inbound travel by non-EU citizens resident in such a country. The only exceptions in this case would be healthcare professionals, transport personnel, diplomats, transit passengers, those travelling for imperative family reasons, seafarers, and persons in need of international protection or for other humanitarian reasons. Such travellers should be subject to strict testing and quarantine arrangements even if they have been vaccinated. When a Member State applies such restrictions, the Member States meeting within the Council structures should review the situation together in a coordinated manner and in close cooperation with the Commission, and they should continue doing so at least every 2 weeks.

How Would Travelers Prove Theyve Been Vaccinated?

So, does this mean U.S. travelers can book their European holiday? Well, as they say, its complicated.

The Commission is banking on setting up a vaccine passport system  the Digital Green Certificate, proposed on 17 March but not yet implemented. As per the press release:

This should be facilitated once the Digital Green Certificate becomes operational, in line with the rules the Commission proposed on 17 March. In particular, travellers should be able to prove their vaccination status with a Digital Green Certificate issued by Member States authorities on an individual basis, or with another certificate recognised as equivalent by virtue of a Commission adequacy decision. Until the Digital Green Certificate is operational, Member States should be able to accept certificates from non-EU countries based on national law, taking into account the ability to verify the authenticity, validity and integrity of the certificate and whether it contains all relevant data. [Jerri-Lynn here: my emphasis.] Member States could consider setting up a portal allowing travellers to ask for the recognition of a vaccination certificate issued by a non-EU country as reliable proof of vaccination and/or for the issuance of a Digital Green Certificate. Children who are excluded from vaccination should be able to travel with their vaccinated parents if they have a negative PCR COVID-19 test taken at the earliest 72 hours before arrival area. In these cases, Member States could require additional testing after arrival.

Forgery Possibilities?

Alas, the U.S. only currently issues a handwritten, cardboard COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card.  and I dont know how one would go about verifying its validity, on-line or otherwise. This is a system that appears tailor-made for abuse, and I recall seeing a headline  which Ive not yet been able to find again  under which some U.S. anti-vaxxers are encouraging the forging of these vaccination records. That would seem ridiculously easy to do, well within the capacity of any minimally competent fourteen year old to replicate.

There are whispers that plans are afoot to develop a different U.S. system. Axios notes:

The U.S. is being closely consulted on the European passport, so any future American system will likely use similar protocols.

With the Digital Green Certificate under development  and the U.S. as well as other countries as yet having no verifiable digital systems  whats a potential tourist hoping to visit the EU to do? It would seem s/he must rely on the procedures individual member states implement for accepting vaccination certificates. According to Forbes:

Its unclear how such a system will work for tourists from countries like the U.S., which currently does not issue a national Covid-19 vaccination certificate, and is unlikely to do so in the future. The current proposal is also limited to proof of vaccination, whereas the Digital Green Certificate will also allow travelers to submit a recent Covid negative test result or proof that they have recently recovered from the disease.

Changing Criteria to Qualify for Safe Country List

In the same press release, the EU proposes changing the criteria for inclusion in the safe country list, for which only seven countries currently qualify:

Non-essential travel regardless of individual vaccination status is currently permitted from 7 countries with a good epidemiological situation. This list is decided by the Council on the basis of epidemiological criteria contained in the current recommendation. The Commission is proposing to amend the criteria to take into account the mounting evidence of the positive impact of vaccination campaigns. The proposal is to increase the threshold of 14-day cumulative COVID-19 case notification rate from 25 to 100. This remains considerably below the current EU average, which is over 420. [Jerri-Lynn here: my emphasis.]

So, under the current procedures, that means travellers from the UK would qualify, but not the U.S. According to CNN:

In the latest data from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, the United States has a notification rate of 258 so would not be added to the safe travel list, but the UK which has a rate of 47, would be considered under the new rules.

The EU foresees that the list of qualifying countries would expand. According to the press release:

The adapted threshold should allow the Council to expand the list of countries from which non-essential travel is permitted regardless of vaccination status, subject to health-related measures such as testing and/or quarantine. As now, the Council should review this list at least every 2 weeks.

The Bottom Line

As much as I want to see the world return to a pre-pandemic normal, magical thinking wont make that so. Given whats happening in India and Brazil, I think the EU is being wildly optimistic in opening up to visitors again. Not to mention banking on vaccines as being a more secure guarantee that visitors are COVID-free and pose no transmission risk than is warranted.
The scenic restaurant overlooks Chickamauga Lake. Photos posted online by emergency management services showed a jumble of wreckage at the edge of the lake, and an agency spokeswoman told ABC News that some people had been trapped underneath the deck when it fell. Others walked away, spokeswoman Amy Maxwell, told ABC News on Sunday.
By Adrian Hill, Director of the Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Originally published at The Conversation.

Coronavirus vaccines have been developed and deployed in record time, but as global rollout has progressed, too few doses have been made available in low-income countries. Its a stark reminder that when it comes to infectious diseases, the worlds poorest often get left behind.

This is a problem that extends far beyond COVID-19. In Africa, for example, malaria has probably caused four times as many deaths as COVID-19 over the past year. Thankfully, our new research shows that an effective vaccine against malaria could now be closer than ever before.

For the first time, a vaccine has shown high efficacy in trials  preventing the disease 77% of the time among those receiving it. This is a landmark achievement. The WHOs target efficacy for malaria vaccines is over 75%. Until now, this level has never been reached.

The speed and success of developing COVID-19 vaccines shows whats possible, and should be an inspiration to get this malaria vaccine finished, licensed and distributed. Its important not just because of the threat malaria poses, but also because investing in vaccines can help prepare us for the next pandemic. Work on this vaccine helped speed the development of the Oxford vaccine for COVID-19 as well.

The World Health Organization estimates there were 229 million cases of malaria in 2019. Globally, malarias annual death toll stands at over 400,000, with no improvement in the last five years. Two-thirds of this terrible loss is among African children under five years of age.

Billions of dollars are being spent each year on bed nets, insecticide spraying and antimalarial drugs just to keep death rate as it is. New technologies are needed, especially as the WHO is targeting a 90% reduction in deaths by 2030.

No malaria vaccine has yet been authorised for use, though the idea of controlling malaria by vaccination has been around for a long time. The first scientific report was from Algiers in 1910. Clinical trials began in the 1940s, got serious from the 1980s onwards and, today, over 140 malaria vaccine candidates have been tested in humans.

But none has progressed to approval and deployment. The science is tough. The malaria parasite is complex, with more than 5,000 genes, meaning it has many different characteristics for vaccine designers to choose to target. SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, has just 12 genes, and its spike protein was the obvious target for vaccine scientists.

Malaria parasites have evolved with humans and their ancestors over the last 30 million years, not only generating a multitude of strains but also impacting our own evolution, with gene variants that lessened the effects of malaria being passed on over time. Worse still, these parasites generate chronic infections in millions, suppressing the human immune response that a vaccine tries to generate.

New Success with a New Vaccine

But progress on malaria vaccine development is accelerating, as illustrated by a new report from a multi-national group of researchers, including myself, published in the Lancet. The team of Professor Halidou Tinto, based in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, studied the new R21 malaria vaccine in 450 children  the key population where a vaccine is most urgently needed. They found it to be safe and have unprecedented efficacy in those aged 5-17 months.

In this controlled trial, 105 of the 147 children who received a placebo contracted malaria. But of the 292 who received a dose of the vaccine, only 81 contracted the disease  surpassing the WHOs 75% target for protection. A phase 3 trial  to test the safety and efficacy of the vaccine in a much larger number of people  will start in four African countries in late April 2021, aiming for accelerated approvals if successful.

Scientists in four continents contributed to the design and testing of this promising vaccine. Design and early development took place at the Jenner Institute at the University of Oxford, where malaria vaccine clinical trials have been pursued since 1999. Challenge studies in Oxford, Southampton and London, where volunteers are deliberately infected with malaria by mosquito bites to test vaccine efficacy, highlighted the potential of the R21 vaccine. An adjuvant component for the vaccine is required and provided by Novavax, a biotechnology company in the US and Sweden.

Manufacturing of the vaccine is ongoing at the worlds largest vaccine supplier, the Serum Institute of India. This malaria partnership with was already in place last year when COVID-19 struck, allowing us to pivot rapidly to manufacturing the Oxford coronavirus vaccine. (The method it uses for delivery, a chimpanzee adenovirus called ChAdOx1, is a technology previously tested for use against malaria.) Having this collaboration already in place, even prior to our partnership with AstraZeneca, helped the Indian company accelerate its COVID-19 vaccine manufacturing such that today it is producing more doses than anywhere else.

Could the same rapid, large-scale production happen for malaria vaccines? Maybe, but there are risks. Another promising vaccine candidate  from GlaxoSmithKline, called RTS,S  hit safety issues in its major phase 3 trial five years ago, and this has delayed its approval while further large-scale assessments take place.

Financing will also be required for malaria vaccine deployment, but with the low-cost large-scale manufacturing capacity in India available, an inexpensive widely accessible vaccine should be achievable. However, as COVID-19 is increasing in several parts of Africa, this could potentially impact the R21 vaccine phase 3 trials that are starting soon in Mali, Burkina Faso, Tanzania and Kenya.

The UK has long been a force in global health research, and fighting malaria is a flagship activity. Funding has been hit hard by this years reduction in the overseas aid budget. But COVID-19 has highlighted the importance of maintaining capacity in vaccine research and development, as well as the feasibility of moving more quickly than ever before to vaccine approval and supply.

One lasting benefit of a terrible pandemic might be a quicker route to a malaria vaccine and a safer future for children in some of the worlds poorest countries.
Yves here. Last week, I chided American labor for walking away from the American-born May Day commemoration as apparently too Commie/Rooskie, and substituting a bloodless and overly-wordy workers Memorial Day.

The apparent Russia/international Socialist aversion looks even more spineless in light of the Russians moving away from May Day as a formal holiday (although Barkley Rosser indicates its still effectively observed).

By Barkley Rosser, Professor of Economics at James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Virginia. Originally published at EconoSpeak

Today is May Day. An ancient point of the Gaelic calendar marking spring, it was long marked by pagan fertility celebrations and rites, dancing around May poles and the like, with many variations on this in different countries. The day became associated with the workers movement in 1886 when in Chicago a movement for the 8-hour work day involved many demonstrations and strikes and ultimately a riot in Haymarket Square in Chicago that culminated in a bombing and a massacre (with both police and workers killed), followed by trials and executions of various anarchists and activists. The actual date if the massacre was on May 4, but May1 became associated with the event, and it spread to become the leading International Workers Day, despite competition from rivals such as Labor Day in September in the US. Ironically both of them were started by socialists and in the US, but somehow in the US Labor Day came to be favored by more conservative interests and was made the legal holiday, with May Day the day celebrated by socialists in other parts of the world.

In the former Soviet Union May Day was one of the major holidays of the year, one of three on which there were major parades and activities in Red Square in Moscow during the period of rule by the Communist Party, the others being November 7 to celebrate the Great October Socialist Revolution (it was October 25 in the old Julian calendar, still followed by the Russian Orthodox Church), and May 9, Victory Day in memory of the victory of Germany in World War II. Of course, Victory Day, following over a week of vacations following May 1, featured parading displays of military people and equipment, which also would show up, along with lots of party officials on November 7. However, perhaps recalling its old pagan celebratory past, the May Day celebrations in Red Square features athletes and youth groups. It was an uplifting celebration, more of a party.

Well, since the end of the Soviet Union things have changed. Victory Day continues to be celebrated, with indeed Vladimir Putin playing it up in recent years, making a bigger and bigger deal of it in his appeal to a militaristic nationalism, with ever larger military parades. As for November 7, in 2005 it was removed as a holiday, but November 4 was recognized as Unity Day, which has sort of replaced November 7, although without Red Square celebrations. It was in fact a pre-Soviet holiday that celebrated a victory of the Poles and Lithuanians in 1612.

But May Day was also dropped as a holiday, although people still basically take off work from it until the still hugely celebrated May 9 Victory Day. This year, Sunday May 2 happens to be the Russian Orthodox Easter, given by the still followed Julian calendar. And also this year Putin has been making a big deal about it, getting lots of publicity for going to church and hanging around with its leaders, presumably to distract people from the uprisings and opposition to his rule that have been happening. But the old May Day is gone in Russia, only quietly noticed by the remnant Communist Party..
I began my journalism career in Nashville in 1990, with my current position with Nashville Post having evolved since October 2000 (when I was with the now-defunct The City Paper, a sister publication of the Post starting in 2008).

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(Natural News) The state of Washington was the site of the first major coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak in the U.S. in March last year. As infection rates and the need for tests were spiking, BGI Group  the worlds largest biotech company  approached the state with an enticing offer.

BGI proposed to build and help run state-of-the-art COVID testing labs, provide technical expertise and high throughput sequencers and make additional donations. Given the situation, it seemed like an offer the state couldnt refuse. But officials were suspicious about BGI and its connections with the Chinese government.

Washington, it turned out, is not the only state approached by BGI.

In its Jan. 31 episode, 60 Minutes reported that the biotech giant had offered generous packages to at least five other states, including New York and California.

Former National Counterintelligence and Security Center (NCSC) head Bill Evanina told 60 Minutes he was so concerned by BGIs proposals, and who would ultimately get the data, that he authorized a rare public warning: Foreign powers can collect, store and exploit biometric information from COVID tests.

We put out an advisory to not only every American, but to hospitals, associations and clinics. Knowing that BGI is a Chinese company, do we understand where that datas going? said Evanina, a veteran of both the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA).

Its unclear whether BGI would get DNA from nasal swabs, but Evanina said the labs are a way to establish a foothold  to bring their equipment here, start mining data and set up shop in the neighborhood.

BGIs deep ties with Chinese government

BGI was founded in 1999 in Beijing by Wang Jian, a Chinese geneticist who worked as a research fellow at several U.S. universities between 1988 and 1994. The companys name was Huada at that time, and its still using Huada as its Chinese name. In its early years, Huada relied solely on government funding and struggled to get sufficient funds to survive.

Its big break came when SARS hit in 2003. Huada was the first to decode the SARS virus genome and to create a SARS detection kit. Later that year, the company became the Beijing Institute of Genomics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. Thats how it got its international name  BGI for Beijing Genomics Institute.

Since its birth, BGI has nurtured a very nationalistic company culture. Wang once told the Founder Magazine that his companys walls were covered with slogans like Loyally Serve the Country, in appreciation for the local governments funds.

BGI started to gain a reputation as a big player in 2010. Thanks to a $90 million loan from the state-owned China Development Bank, BGI purchased 128 sequencing systems from San Diego-based Illumina, the top sequencing equipment maker in the U.S.

With the help of American machines and tech services, coupled with cheap Chinese labor and government support, BGI quickly became the worlds DNA sequencing factory and accounted for over half of the worlds sequencing capacity.

In 2012, BGI acquired Complete Genomics, a DNA sequencing company and equipment maker. The funds for the $117.6 million purchase were raised from Chinese venture capitals. The company has expanded its footprint globally. According to its website, BGI conducts business in more than 100 countries and areas and has 11 offices and labs in the U.S.

People are concerned about Chinas access to American DNA data

Some said that with Complete Genomics providing an American base, BGI would have access to more DNA samples from Americans, helping it compile a huge database of genetic information. Some also worried about the protection of the genetic informations privacy.

According to a 2019 report from the U.S.China Economic and Security Review Commission (USCC), BGI has formed numerous partnerships with U.S. healthcare providers and research organizations to provide large-scale genetic sequencing to support medical research efforts,

There are three main reasons why many people in the biotech community and government have expressed concerns about Chinas access to American DNA data.

In the 60 Minutes interview, Evanina discussed the very likely scenario in which Chinese companies would be able to micro-target American individuals and offer customized preventative solutions based on their DNA.

Evanina asked: Do we want to have another nation systematically eliminate our healthcare services? Are we okay with that as a nation?

The second concern is that China may use DNA to track and attack American individuals. As the USCC report states: China could target vulnerabilities in specific individuals brought to light by genomic data or health records. Individuals targeted in such attacks would likely be strategically identified persons, such as diplomats, politicians, high-ranking federal officials or military leadership.

The third concern is that China may devise bioweapons to target non-Asians. Steven Mosher, president of the Population Research Institute, discussed it in his article What Will China Do With Your DNA? published by The Epoch Times in March 2019.

He wrote: We know that the Asian genome is genetically distinct from the Caucasian and African in many ways.  Would it be possible to bioengineer a very virulent version of, say, smallpox, that was easily transmitted, fatal to other races, but to which the Chinese enjoyed a natural immunity?  Given our present ability to manipulate genomes, if such a bio-weapon can be imagined, it can probably  given enough time and resources  be realized.

An article from Technocracy said: Chinas aggressive collection of American DNA should be doubly alarming because it can only spell one ultimate outcome: biowarfare. That is, genetically engineering viruses or other diseases that will be selectively harmful to U.S. populations.

Chinas expanding DNA database

China started building its DNA database in 1999 through its public security system. Since then, China has expanded the size of its DNA database at an astounding speed.

In 2003, public security had less than 100,000 records. Around 2017, China launched a major campaign to enforce nationwide DNA collection. The following year, the size of the database jumped to 70 million records. A New York Times article in June 2020 mentioned that Chinas trove of genetic material has a total of 80 million profiles.

To put this in perspective, the FBI DNA database, Combined DNA Index System (CODIS), was established about a decade before Chinas. As of September 2020, it has only about 19 million profiles.

A national DNA database is no longer uncommon and is usually used for legal and ethical purposes. But like the internet, telecom and other technologies, such a database can be used for evil purposes.

In recent years, Chinese authorities have launched several campaigns to collect Uyghurs DNA along with other biometric data. Since 2016, Xinjiang residents between the ages of 12 and 65 were forced to hand over DNA samples and undergo retinal scans and fingerprinting annually, according to Xinhua.

Since late 2019, China has collected DNA from average citizens. Police officers have shown up at schools, villages and residences to collect DNA samples and other information.

Theyre specifically collecting blood samples from men and boys to build a genetic map of roughly 700 million males, giving the authorities a powerful new tool for their emerging high-tech surveillance state. The Chinese authorities are collecting DNA samples from men and boys for one simple reason: Males commit more crimes, according to statistics.

Such practices are unthinkable in other countries, and some countries have banned the permanent logging of DNA records in order to protect citizens privacy and human rights.

Follow FutureScienceNews.com for more news and information related to DNA.

Sources include:

CBSNews.com

TheEpochTimes.com

NYTimes.com 1

Technocracy.news

NYTimes.com 2
(Natural News) A healthy 33-year-old Pennsylvania woman was paralyzed for 12 hours after she was injected with the first dose of Pfizers Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine.

According to local NBC affiliate WPXI, Rachael Cecere was vaccinated the week of April 17 at a pharmacy in Pittsburgh. The Bethel Park, Pennsylvania resident said she initially felt fine after being vaccinated. But 12 hours later, almost her entire body was paralyzed.

Cecere said it was the scariest thing in the world to go to sleep fine but wake up and not be able to move at all. She said she had to ask her daughter to hand her the phone so she could call for help.

Paramedics came and rushed her to Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia. Cecere was later moved to Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh and then moved again to a Cleveland Clinic.

Doctors ran tests on Cecere to figure out what happened. But all of the tests, which included bloodwork and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, found nothing out of the ordinary. The tests also ruled out inflammation in the spine and Guillain Barre Syndrome, which is a side effect of the flu shot.

There is just nothing they can find wrong with me, said Cecere, adding that doctors told her she was perfectly healthy and with no underlying conditions.

Doctors at the Cleveland Clinic believe that the vaccine caused stress in Ceceres nervous system, leading to her paralysis from the neck down. Cecere has since been able to regain most of the feeling and strength in her arms, but her legs are still a point of concern for doctors. The paralysis is also lingering in her hips.

David Weber, an infectious disease expert affiliated with several hospitals in Pittsburgh, said he hasnt heard of anything like this happening with the Pfizer vaccine. He added that it would be premature to judge what happened to Cecere as a side effect of the vaccine. However, he said the paralysis warrants further study.

In a statement, Pfizer said its ongoing review hasnt identified any safety signals with paralysis and their COVID-19 vaccine.

Ceceres family has already reported the case to Pfizer. However, they have yet to be contacted by the company.

Nashville woman also left paralyzed after vaccination

Ceceres case is far from isolated. In Nashville, a woman was rushed to the hospital hours after she was injected with the second dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine on April 16.

Brandy Parker-McFadden, a mother of three, recalled feeling an unusual sensation in her legs a few hours after she was vaccinated. However, the sensation soon turned into horrible neck pain. (Related: Safe and effective? Vaccine package inserts reveal HUNDREDS of side effects in small print.)

James, her husband, took her to Vanderbilt University Medical Hospital where things took a turn for the worse. At the hospital, Parker-McFadden lost all feeling in her arms and legs. Her MRI scans, bloodwork and other tests all came back negative for possible diseases and abnormalities.

Parker-McFadden said she is epileptic but that what happened to her was not a seizure. The following week, she could move her arms and wiggle her toes again. She will undergo intensive physical therapy to learn how to walk again.

Doctors didnt understand what happened to Parker-McFadden. But she said she believed she had a reaction to the Pfizer vaccine. I just wanted to get my shot, and I never expected to get this at all.

Parker-McFadden has been in touch with Cecere. She said she was glad to have found another person who went through a similar experience but was still shocked about what happened to her.

Visit Vaccine.news to learn more about the side effects of the new COVID-19 vaccines.

Sources include:

NaturalHealth365.com

WPXI.com

WKRN.com
(Natural News) Attorney generals from twelve states are calling on the worlds top social media networks to completely eradicate any negative claim about covid-19 vaccines. Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg and Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey have already implemented misinformation policies that remove any dissent against government lock downs, mandatory masks, and Big Pharmas forceful vaccine push. However, the new covid vaccines are so faulty and unsafe, vaccine injury and death claims are still spreading across social media.

After being noticeably censored on their own pages for sharing vaccine truths, Facebook users have flocked to Facebook groups to talk about the covid-19 vaccine side effects. One of these groups reported tens of thousands of personal testimonies about the harms of these vaccines. This group consisted of more than 120,000 people and was growing by 10,000 people every week as vaccine injury reports poured in. The group has since been removed by Facebook, as The Ministry of Truth rewrites history and covers up its crimes.

The Ministry of Truth is taking over law enforcement to protect the vaccine industry

George Orwells Ministry of Truth is eerily taking form in the modern-day merger of Big Pharma, Big Government, Big Media, and Big Tech. Government and public health officials are becoming dystopian controllers of information and manipulative propagandists who carry out the deception of the vaccine industry. Government officials are working tirelessly with social media companies to control all information on covid-19, covering up their crimes and justifying their tyranny. Social media algorithms are already designed to limit the spread of covid-19 misinformation, but its never enough. No matter how hard the powers that be try to silence personal testimony of vaccine injury and death, the real truth continues to surface.

Given anti-vaxxers reliance on your platforms, you are uniquely positioned to prevent the spread of misinformation about coronavirus vaccines that poses a direct threat to the health and safety of millions of Americans in our states and that will prolong our road to recovery, wrote Connecticut Attorney General William Tong. The law enforcement official is joined by attorney generals from Delaware, Iowa, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and Virginia. They all believe that lockdowns should be tied to vaccination status  human rights abuses the world has not witnessed since the rise of the Third Reich.

Top law enforcement officials are now enforcing the censorship and abuse

The most disturbing aspect about this: These are law enforcement officials who are criminalizing free speech and scientific progress. Law enforcement officials are not standing up for the rights of the vaccine injured, the oppressed, or the abused. They are actively working to oppress those who do not comply, who have been harmed by these medical experiments.

The people and groups spreading falsehoods and misleading Americans about the safety of coronavirus vaccines are threatening the health of our communities, slowing progress in getting our residents protected from the virus, and undermining economic recovery in our states, declares the letter. Facebook has not taken sufficient action to identify violations and enforce these guidelines by removing and labeling misinformation and banning repeat offenders, the letter contends.

The law enforcement officials demand that Facebook take their abusive level of censorship a step further. Facebook has already blocked URL links of specific news sites such as Vaccines.News and blacklisted alternative streaming channels such as Brighteon, but now the attorney generals are demanding that Facebook prevent users altogether from using video streaming tools like Bitchute, Rumble, and Brighteon.

The truth about vaccines is finding a way to seep through all the censorship. Instead of getting to the bottom of the vaccine injuries and deaths, public health authorities and crooked law enforcement officials are trying to suppress any voice who dares talk about the problems with the vaccines. All this censorship, manipulation, coercion and force is making more people wary, and rightfully so.

Sources include:

LifeSiteNews.com

Radio.NaturalNews.com

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) James Madara, CEO of the American Medical Association (AMA), issued an open letter to the National Governors Association calling all legislative efforts to stop the transgender mutilation of children a dangerous government intrusion into the practice of medicine.

According to Madara, permanently altering a childs hormones with pharmaceutical chemicals and surgically altering their private parts are normal variations of human identity and expression that should not be interfered with by government officials.

As with all medical interventions, physicians are guided by their ethical duty to act in the best interest of their patients and must tailor recommendations about specific interventions and the timing of those interventions to each patients unique circumstances, Madaras letter further contends.

Such decisions must be sensitive to the childs clinical situation, nurture the childs short and long-term development, and balance the need to preserve the childs opportunity to make important life choices autonomously in the future.

Madaras letter comes as 16 states and counting have taken action to prohibit doctors from performing transgender surgeries and procedures on minors. Arkansas became the first state to ban the surgeries after the states legislature voted to override Republican Gov. Asa Hutchinsons vet of the Save Adolescents from Experimentation Act.

The SAFE Act bars doctors from cutting off or otherwise mutilating childrens private parts, as well as bans them from administering puberty blockers or top and bottom surgeries on children.

More than half of all Americans oppose transgender mutilation of children

As it turns out, opposition to mutilating children with pharmaceutical drugs and surgeries is bipartisan. A recent survey from the conservative think-tank The Heritage Foundation found that at least 57 percent of Americans oppose the transgender mutilation of children under any circumstances.

According to the transgender lobby, this is an unacceptable form of transphobia that must be abolished so underage children can live their truth by pretending to be the opposite sex, or no sex at all.

Madara appears to feel the same, though he wraps it up in much more politically correct language to make it sound like the transgender mutilation of children is no different than any other kind of medicine that doctors might prescribe to their patients.

Prohibiting doctors from destroying a childs life with irreversible drug therapies and surgeries would insert the government into clinical decision-making and force physicians to disregard clinical guidelines, Madara says.

Transgender children, like all children, have the best chance to thrive when they are supported and can obtain the health care they need, he further contends. It is imperative that transgender minors be given the opportunity to explore their gender identity under the safe and supportive care of a physician.

When contacted by The Daily Caller News Foundation for comment, the AMA did not immediately respond.

The DNA-deniers in the Democrat Party think men dressed as women and suffering from the perverse psychosis of gender dysphoria should be allowed to expose themselves in the same bathroom your young daughter is in, warned one of our own commenters about the implications of what Madara is suggesting.

Its not like these men dressing up as women couldnt just use the stalls in the mens room. After all, their Y chromosomes outed them as men, no matter what they personally believe. Science says so.

Another pointed out that the justification for trying to ban all this is a correct approach because minor children are unable to understand and properly consent to permanently destroying their bodies with deadly chemicals and surgeries.

How can anybody justify life-altering treatment to a minor? this person asks. They cant. Let them wait until they are legally competent.

More related news stories can be found at Gender.news.

Sources for this article include:

TruePundit.com

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) Ben Philippe, a term assistant professor of English at Barnard College in New York City, has written a book in which he fantasizes about locking white people in a room and gassing them to death, just like the Nazis did to World War II prisoners.

Speaking to NPRs Talia Schlanger during a recent interview, Philippe spoke further about his anti-white hatred, which involves detonating white people while toxic gas spews out of the ventilation system and kills them.

When this race war hits its crescendo, Ill gather you all into a beautifully decorated room under the pretense of unity, Philippe joked about how he wants to trick white people into believing that his life matters in order to mass execute them by locking them inside a room.

Ill give a speech to civility and all the good times we share; Ill smile as we raise glasses to your good, white health, while the detonator blinks under the table, knowing the exits are locked and the air vents filled with gas, Philippe further revealed about what he plans to do to white people.

Schlanger, a Jewish woman, told Philippe that she was speechless upon reading this particular passage in his book, especially since her grandparents survived the Holocaust. In order to be politically correct, though, Schlanger proceeded to apologize to Philippe for whatever caused him to feel this way.

I wanted to say to you that Im so sorry that your experience of the world made you feel that way, she pandered.

What self-respecting white person would be friends with someone like Philippe?

Philippe, meanwhile, continues to culturally appropriate both his college and its English department, neither of which are the result of black contributions to the world. The fact that this street thug even teaches English at all is a travesty.

One wonders what the black community and its leftist white allies would do if Barnard hired an Amish housewife to teach its African studies program. At least in that scenario the Amish housewife probably would not be writing books about blowing black people up and gassing them to death.

I guess I was wrestling with the question that, isnt the end result of that all-out warfare? Philippe pondered during the interview. Like, Game of Thrones-style warfare? And what does that look like? And I lived in that sort of stray thought for a few pages.

In an attempt to cover for his heinous feelings, Philippe further claims that he had a hard time writing said passage in his book because he is supposedly not a violent person. He also added that he love[s] all [his] white friends.

It makes one wonder, if he is harboring such violent fantasies, how white people could ever be friends with someone like Philippe, so it is hard to believe that he was being serious with this admission. Perhaps he was just trying to save face while speaking out of both sides of his mouth.

According to his faculty page, Philippe got his Bachelor of Arts (BA) from Columbia University. He went on to get a Masters of Fine Arts (MFA) from The University of Texas at Austin. Philippe has also written articles for Vanity Fair and Observer.

Philippe was not even born in the United States. He was born in Haiti and was raised in Montreal. He then went on to somehow become a professor, despite being a racist. This is who is teaching your children, America  be warned.

More related news about anti-white racists like Philippe who are teaching the next generation of young people to be filled with hate can be found at CampusInsanity.com.

Sources for this article include:

TheCollegeFix.com

NaturalNews.com
The location, the first in Florida and the first outpost of the chain south of Tennessee, is described on the chains website as a Destination Castle, a 4,567-square-foot space with an outdoor patio and two drive-thru lanes. The location, near Disney World, is expected to employ around 140 people in order to ensure speedy service.
(Natural News) It should be obvious by now to anyone who has a couple of brain cells to rub together that the FBI has gone rogue: It is completely out of control and is operating by its own set of rules, in violation of our laws.

For years now, the FBI has operated outside of the law and with impunity, answering virtually to no one and somehow still escaping even the oversight of Congress (which has continued to fund the agency and its parent Justice Department, thereby ensuring that no one will be held accountable).

The abuse of American law and the trust of citizens hit a pinnacle at the outset of Donald Trumps presidency: We learned that the chief thug at the time, Director James Comey, on behalf of Barack Milhous Hussein Obama, broke laws and protocol to literally spy on his 2016 campaign. And his deputy, Andrew McCabe, was in on it, too.

Neither was charged.

But who was held accountable for that? A lone, low-ranking FBI lawyer named Kevin Clinesmith who essentially got a slap on the wrist for doing something that, under normal times and circumstances, would have earned him some jail time at a minimum.

Now we learn that the bureau has been caught abusing our trust once again, not to mention breaking more laws in the process.

The UKs Daily Mail reports:

The FBI searched troves of communications sucked up by the National Security Agency for information on racially motivated violent extremists without a warrant, ignoring previous warnings it was breaking the law.

The FBIs requests for access to masses of electronic communications harvested by the National Security Agency (NSA) is revealed in a newly declassified report from the United States secret surveillance court.

That jurisdiction, the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court, is what got Clinesmith in a bad way; he lied on a document to the court in order to get a BS warrant renewed to continue spying on former Trump campaign adviser Carter Page, who was a CIA asset  the part Clinesmith lied about.

As to the new report, it shows that the FBI continued to use the NSAs most sensitive databases to conduct searches without first obtaining a warrant and during routine criminal probes, even though the bureau was told by the FISA court in 2018 and 2019 such uses of those databases were blatantly unconstitutional.

And as we can see, the FBI simply thumbed its nose even at a federal court. Because thats what rogue, lawless federal agencies do.

Whats more, as the Daily Beast reported, the bulk of the FBIs unconstitutional, illegal searches, also known as backdoor searches, were political in nature, as many were focused on so-called right-wing extremists (because apparently the FBI has never heard of left-wing extremism harbored by groups like Antifa and Black Lives Matter).

In other words, the FBI continues to perform warrantless searches through the NSAs most sensitive databasesthe ones the NSA is not required to get warrants before filling with communications informationfor routine criminal investigations that are supposed to require warrants, the Daily Beast added.

Doing so potentially jeopardizes an accused persons ability to have a fair trial since warrantlessly acquired information is supposed to be inadmissible, the outlet reported, adding that the FBI said none of the materials obtained in that manner were used in criminal prosecutions.

But who believes anything these liars say? Besides, unconstitutionally obtained materials have been used by the bureau in criminal proceedings in the past, making the denial completely worthless.

Now, the real question  the only one that really matters  is this: What is Joe Biden going to go about this blatant abuse of power?

Biden can (and should have already done so) pick up the phone and call his newly minted attorney general, Merrick Garland, and order him to find out who did what and charge them.

But he wont. Because hes a Democrat, and the deep state they align with are untouchable.

The time has come for Americans to seriously think about how much more of this abuse were going to take before we simply opt out of this corrupt regime.

Sources include:

DailyMail.co.uk

DailyBeast.com

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) Our country is under siege, and Dr. Cordie Williams, the Megaphone Marine, has created a new resource for American patriots to keep up with what he calls continuing patriot education.

Dr. Williams spoke with the Health Ranger during a recent broadcast of the Health Ranger Report  watch below  about the new 1776 Forever Free platform, which is described as:

 a community-based organization that supports the Constitutional Rights of all Americans. Regardless of political party, gender, race, religion, or creed, if you believe in the statements below then we welcome you to join our American movement.

These statements include affirmations in support of free markets, economic freedom for all Americans, the First Amendment, the Second Amendment, environmental protection, and loyalty to both the Constitution and to the Republic.

Dr. Williams, a chiropractor, never expected to be leading a charge like this, nor did he ever expect to become an activist. But the rise of medical fascism due to the Wuhan coronavirus (Covid-19), along with extremist movements like Antifa, caused him to rise to the occasion.

Living in California, Dr. Williams has seen his fair share of government tyranny. This is why he and his wife decided to get involved, and now he runs both 1776 Forever Free along with a YouTube channel.

Its just funny the different levels of control, whether it be the facial condoms (masks) to what theyre trying to do monetarily, you just see the control and the suppression and its like Slumdog Millionaire, Dr. Williams says about all the Chinese virus restrictions being imposed on Americans.

More American patriots need to learn how to run for office

Recognizing that something desperately needs to be done to stop it all, Dr. Williams came up with 1776 Forever Free as a tool for patriots to stay informed, learn more about how to become activists, and ultimately defend their country against enemies both foreign and domestic.

In Dr. Williams view, conservatives do not come up with solutions to these problems as much as they should. Many of them are aware of what is going on, but few are willing to take action, or perhaps they feel powerless to do so.

I think we educate a lot, but what are we doing to move the needle? Dr. Williams asks.

What weve started doing is were teaching the Constitution  and were going to teach people how to run for office. Were going to have another monthly kind of TED Talk format for talking about whats going on with tyranny and Sleepy Joe (fake president Joe Biden).

Dr. Williams is most excited about the database he soon plans to launch where blue-collar folks will be able to learn from start to finish how to run for office, all with the click of a button.

If theres an application, they can get it right at this site, Dr. Williams says about the tool. If theres something theyve got to pay  everything from getting a platform to knowing how to mobilize a constituency  and our Super PAC is going to change the fight at the local level.

In order to beat the system at its own game, everyday patriots need to learn the ropes of how it all works. This is Dr. Williams goal and mission with 1776 Forever Free  be sure to check it out at this link.

It is important to also remember that breaking free from the false left-right paradigm is critical for rallying people together rather than further dividing us. Many old school Democrats, for instance, do not agree with what the new-breed Democrats are doing, and it is important to bring them on board as well.

To keep up with the latest news about Wuhan coronavirus (Covid-19) tyranny, be sure to check out Pandemic.news.

Sources for this article include:

1776ForeverFree.com

Brighteon.com
(Natural News) An organization that claims to promote free speech on the internet has quietly been promoting censorship online. Trade association NetChoice has been called out for promoting social media censorship in its blog posts.

According to Breitbart, recent blog posts by NetChoices policy counsel have argued against the notion that major tech platforms should be designated as common carriers. As part of this, it stated that forcing social media platforms to carry all legal speech would lead to firehose obscenity.

Making it illegal for social media platforms to moderate content would result in a Mad Max-style, anything-goes internet, reads the post. Children would be subjected to some of the worst parts of the internet and platforms would be powerless to create safe ecosystems free from unwanted, offensive, and profane material. People just trying to watch cat videos or connect with their family over Facebook would be forced to wade through a sea of unseemly content, such as racist posts or pornography.

NetChoice doesnt support choice on the internet

As part of the report, Breitbarts Allum Bokhari points out that NetChoices position is not remotely true. He points to Googles safe search button as an argument against the groups position, as it would not be affected by common carrier rules.

He writes out that common carrier rules would not prevent social media platforms from building filters against certain types of speech (including hate speech). Instead, what those rules would mean is that filters like Googles safe search would be optional to the user.

Common carrier rules then would still allow for content moderation. The difference would be that Big Tech companies, including social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter, would not be able to impose any particular moderation regime on anyone.

That would instead be the users choice, Bokhari points out, noting the irony of an organization named NetChoice not supporting something that allows for choice.

Organization also opposed Floridas anti-censorship bill

NetChoices blog posts are not the only time the group has revealed its true, pro-censorship colors. In recent months, the organization has come out against Floridas House Bill 7013.

The bill, which was approved by the Florida House Appropriations Committee back in March, cracks down on social media companies that block users from their platforms.

Specifically, HJB 7013 would prevent social media companies from blocking political candidates in Florida from all platforms. In addition, it would also require these companies to publish standards about issues such as blocking users and apply the standards consistently.

In opposing the bill, NetChoice stated that it would expose social media platforms to lawsuits for removing harmful content. In addition, the organization stated that such a bill violates conservative principles of limited government and free markets.

More importantly, the group claimed that HB 7013 violated the First Amendment.

The First Amendment makes clear that government may not regulate the speech of private individuals or businesses, it wrote in its statement. This includes government action that compels speech by forcing a private social media platform to carry content that is against its policies or preferences.

Proponents of the bill, such as its sponsor Florida House Rep. Blaise Ingoglia, say that it is needed so that social media companies are forced to be transparent and display consistency and accountability.

The vast majority of Americans think Big Tech is inappropriately censoring people, said Ingoglia. We need transparency, accountability and consistency.

Follow BigTech.news for more on what tech companies are doing to retain their ability to censor points of view they disagree with.

Sources include:

Breitbart.com

WUWF.org

NetChoice.org

OrlandoSentinel.com
(Natural News) The latest conspiracy theorist to come forward and warn about particulate shedding from those who were recently vaccinated for the Wuhan coronavirus (Covid-19) is none other than Pfizer itself.

The pharma giants own documents openly admit that people who were recently jabbed for the Chinese virus can transmit whatever is contained in the syringe to others, including through skin contact.

An occupational exposure occurs when a person receives unplanned direct contact with a vaccine test subject, which may or may not lead to the occurrence of an adverse event, the Pfizer document warns.

These people may include health care providers, family members, and other people who are around the trial participant.

In other words, there is something contained in the injections that cause the injected to become superspreaders. Pfizer does not indicate what this is, however it does warn that the culprits are people who were recently injected.

Such transmission might occur from a simple handshake or a hug. It will almost certainly happen during sexual activity, which means those who are wanting to avoid contracting whatever poison is inside these things should be sure that their partner did not receive an injection.

The document goes on to reveal that vaccinated women who are pregnant could suffer spontaneous abortions and other reproductive problems  and unvaccinated people who come into contact with them could as well.

Vaccinated mothers can also pass whatever is contained in the Pfizer injection to their babies through tainted breast milk as well.

Pfizer: Coronavirus vaccine shedding can occur through inhalation or skin contact

Pfizer further admits that vaccinated men can transmit viral components to women at the time of conception, meaning both women and their unborn babies could become infected with the poisons through outside contact.

A pregnant woman who is unvaccinated could also pick up the viral components from her doctor or another family member who was vaccinated. According to Pfizer, this can occur by inhalation or skin contact.

Oh, but the vaccines are not actually shedding, the media and the establishment claim. This is just a wild conspiracy theory, we are being told. Why, then, is Pfizer warning quietly in its informational materials that being in close proximity to a vaccinated person could cause health problems?

If this vax is not shedding into other people, why would contact between vaccinated and un-vaccinated be an event worth noting? asks Taps Newswire.

If this vax is not shedding, then WHY does a guy who has been around a vaccinated woman, even if he did not touch her or have sex, need to worry about getting a different woman pregnant?

Pfizer wants clinical trial participants who believe they might have been exposed environmentally to chemical shedding from someone who was jabbed for the Wuhan coronavirus (Covid-19) to report the incident via the companys Vaccine SAE Report Form and EDP Supplemental Form.

Pfizer is doing this because outside exposure to vaccine components could kill a pregnant mothers baby. The company does not plan to log any injuries or deaths from such exposure within its study, however, because it considers such information irrelevant to the study participants themselves.

This is why we have green screen Biden, Taps Newswire adds in speculation.

They are ALL green screen now, we just caught Biden. They are green screen and working from sets because they have opened Pandoras box and intend to hide out until everything is finished. This is why many people are claiming the White House is empty and that they are working from a set ad are not actually there. Because they are not there. If they do ever go on camera, they are not where they say they are.

More of the latest news about the threat that vaccinated people pose to the rest of us can be found at ChemicalViolence.com.

Sources for this article include:

TapsNewswire.com

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) Eighteen-year-old Emma Burkey of Las Vegas, Nevada received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine on April 1. What happened to her a week after the vaccination was no laughing matter, as she experienced seizures that called for her hospitalization. The teen subsequently went under the knife three times to remove blood clots that formed in her brain.

According to Burkey family spokesman Bret Johnson, Emma began to feel ill and experienced seizures a week after inoculation. She was initially rushed to the St. Rose Dominican Hospital, Siena Campus in Henderson. Emma was later air-lifted to the Loma Linda University Medical Center (LLUMC) in nearby California to receive specialized treatment.

Doctors at LLUMC placed Emma in a medically induced coma and intubated her. The teenager then underwent three operations to remove blood clots  a side effect stemming from the J&J vaccine  that formed in her brain. The operations were successful: Emma has been subsequently taken out of the induced coma and is no longer attached to a respirator.

Speaking to the Las Vegas Review-Journal, Johnson said Emmas parents are cautiously optimistic despite Burkey suffering from a massive brain injury. He said: The word we got from her parents  was [that Emma was recovering] slowly. The Burkey family spokesman added that while the teen still has a tracheostomy tube in her throat, she can mouth some words and communicate by blinking.

Burkeys case is one of nine instances of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST)  clots that form in the vessels that drain blood from the brain  associated with the J&J single-dose COVID-19 vaccine. The cases are currently being examined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Interestingly, the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services said it did not know of what happened to Emma until a meeting of a CDC advisory committee brought up the case.

J&J vaccine also associated with other serious reactions

Burkeys experience came after the CDC and FDA released guidance recommending that vaccinations using the J&J vaccine be suspended. The decision followed reports of a handful of serious blood clots some patients experienced. However, such reactions were rare out of the more than seven million inoculations using the shot.

According to the two agencies, six women below 50 years old who got the J&J Wuhan coronavirus vaccine developed CVST sometime after vaccination. The six women also reported thrombocytopenia  low levels of blood platelets  aside from the blood clots in the brain. Three women later joined the list of patients who developed CVST, but it is unknown if the three new additions also experienced a low blood platelet count.

Despite these reports, evidence suggesting that the J&J vaccine directly caused the blood clots is scant. Authorities nevertheless remain vigilant regarding further reports of serious reactions that may come in. CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky said during an April 19 press briefing: We are encouraged that it hasnt been an overwhelming number of cases, but were looking and seeing [what has] come in.

Walensky added that her agency and the FDA were closely monitoring the U.S. Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System for new reports of side effects following vaccination. But even before the reports of CVST and thrombocytopenia emerged, the J&J vaccine has been linked to a number of side effects in people.

New Jersey resident Francisco Cosme received the J&J single-dose vaccine on March 6 at New York Citys Javits Center. Almost a month later, the 52-year-old started to feel unwell. Cosmes wife Laura Eugene said her husband started to feel like he had a sore throat [with] stuffy coughing, and then he started to run a fever  and feel fatigue.

Cosme called 911 after experiencing breathing difficulties. He was subsequently taken to the John F. Kennedy Medical Center in Union City, where he is currently in critical condition. Doctors projected a grim road for Cosme, saying that they were unsure if his condition will improve.

Meanwhile, 74-year-old Richard Terrell said his skin started peeling off four days after he got the J&J vaccine. He described his experience: I began to feel a little discomfort in my armpit. [A] few days later, I began to get an itchy rash, and then after that  I began to swell and my skin turned red. The Goochland, Virginia resident added that the rash soon spread to his entire body.

Terrell commented: It all just happened so fast. My skin peeled off. Fortunately, he managed to receive medical treatment for his stinging, burning and itching skin as a side effect of the single-dose vaccine. The Virginian would have died if his condition was left untreated, a doctor who handled Terrells case said.

Visit VaccineDamage.news to read more news about adverse reactions caused by the J&J single-dose COVID-19 vaccine.

Sources include:

DailyMail.co.uk

ReviewJournal.com

TheEpochTimes.com

NYPost.com
(Natural News) When it overtook its social media rival, MySpace, even then few could have predicted that Facebook would grow into the big tech behemoth that it is today.

Moreover, who would have thought that a geeky billionaire named Mark Zuckerberg would become powerful enough to literally decide the outcome of presidential elections?

And yet, thats what he did last fall.

Zuckerberg donated more than $400 million in election grants to counties mostly in key battleground states where D.C. establishment lawyers, PACs, lobbyists and operatives from both sides of the aisle stole Donald Trumps shoo-in reelection.

Trump was sure to have some difficulties, we believed, because Democratic mayors and governors helped destroy his massively successful economy and blamed a Chinese-borne virus on him. But given the massive outpouring of support everywhere the former president went  and places he didnt go that still saw massive Trump vehicle and boat parades  his reelection looked certain.

Biden, by comparison, along with his VP pick Kamala Harris, couldnt draw flies to a BS contest. Virtually no one came out to see them at the limited rallies they did. Harris was so unimpressive to Democratic voters she was one of the first to drop out of the crowded Democratic presidential field. And Biden stayed in his basement for much of the campaign, limiting his exposure to gaffes, forgetful moments and times when he clearly couldnt think straight or enunciate clearly.

So Zuckerberg stepped up and helped fund the effort to take away Trumps sure-fire reelection victory by pouring hundreds of millions into the effort, and nowhere was his election interference more prevalent than in the battleground state of Pennsylvania.

Broad and Liberty reported:

Grant monies awarded to help fund the 2020 election in at least 21 different Pennsylvania counties were heavily skewed toward counties with high Democratic registration and recent voting turnout, an analysis from Broad + Liberty shows.

Pennsylvania Republicans are currently considering legislation that would change the rules for private grants such as these in future elections, requiring them to go directly to the Pa. Department of State to be distributed evenly. Similar bills have been passed in Georgia and Arizona and are being considered in other states.

The money was funneled through the nonprofit Center for Tech and Civic Life, which was founded in 2015. The org drew a lot of attention in the lead-up to the 2020 election when Zuckerberg and his wife Pricilla Chan gave it $250 million. A month later, the power tech couple added another $100 million; about $22 million of that money found its way to 21 Pennsylvania counties.

Republicans in the state smelled a rat right off the bat. They saw what was happening: The Zuckerberg-funded nonprofit was purchasing election infrastructure that would be used to drive Democratic voter turnout in a state nearly all political observers agreed would be vital to put in the Electoral College win column.

State GOP Rep. Jim Struzzi, who is a sponsor of the new legislation, noted that the actions undertaken by the CTCL are likely a violation of the 14th Amendments equal protections clause because all eligible voters must be given equal access to their right to vote. He said giving some counties grants while denying it to others is inherently unfair.

Democrats and at least one state judge disagreed, pointing to a CTCL grant to some counties that went for Trump by a 2-to-1 margin. But that is window dressing to make the grants look bipartisan when far more money went to Democrat-heavy jurisdictions.

We must put a stop to private money election grants to cities and counties, said state Republican Rep. Eric Nelson. Big tech significantly outspent government in selective areas resulting in a dangerous precedent for all future elections. I fought this before the election and will continue to battle tactics that result in the unequal treatment of voters.

How about adding this: Zuckerberg should be arrested for election meddling.

Sources include:

BroadAndLiberty.com

NaturalNews.com
New Castle, PA (16103)

Today

Rain showers in the morning with thunderstorms developing for the afternoon. High 83F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms this evening with a few showers possible late. Low 66F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.
By PTI

NEW DELHI: Industry body CII has urged the government to take "strongest" national steps including curtailing economic activity to contain the spike in COVID-19 cases in the country.

CII President Uday Kotak has asked for highest-level response measures to address the rising wave of COVID-19 cases, as currently safeguarding lives is key to cut the transmission links.

"The healthcare infrastructure and supply build-up are being undertaken on an emergency basis by the governments at the centre and states, but will take time."

"At this critical juncture when the toll of lives is rising, CII urges the strongest national steps including curtailing economic activity to reduce suffering," the President has said in a statement.

The chamber said that the current pace of daily caseloads, the requirement for hospital beds and ICU beds, oxygen, and medicines will continue to escalate.

"Healthcare and frontline workers are giving their best efforts to tackle the influx of patients, but it may not be possible to manage escalating caseloads with the present medical talent availability. We must heed expert advice on this subject, from India and abroad. Highest response measures are needed to break the chain of contagion and also use the time to rapidly build up capacity," Kotak added.

CII also suggested certain measures such as deployment of armed forces and central security forces for logistics, infrastructure and personnel; security at hospitals for medical personnel; tapping manpower sources such as retired medical personnel, doctors and nurses; and distribution of vaccination supplies to states according to well-defined criteria.

"Nursing and medical students who have finished GNM/BSC training and who are awaiting exams can be roped in and this can be counted for future requirements/credits after one year of COVID ICU work," CII suggested.

Further, it asked for scaling up RT-PCR testing to double the current daily numbers both in urban and rural India.

The daily COVID-19 cases in India showed a slight dip with 3,68,147 new coronavirus infections being reported in a day, taking the total tally of cases to 1,99,25,604, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Monday.
The suspect, who has not yet been identified, was taken to an area hospital and his condition is not known at this time.
By PTI

MUMBAI: The recent steps taken by the CBIC for customs clearance of emergency medical equipment will help logistics companies in faster delivery of the consignments amid a huge surge in imports of coronavirus-related emergency products, according to the logistics industry.

The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), through a notification, recently provided clarity besides further simplifying procedures for clearances of certain items.

The CBIC has also waived off basic customs duty for critically required oxygen concentrators amid an acute shortage of medical oxygen in the country.

This will will enable express and logistic companies to speed up clearances for emergency medical equipment  and help bring pandemic spread under control, DHL Express said.

DHL Express Senior Vice-President R S Subramanian said, "Due to COVID-19 and the new lockdown protocols on social distancing most of us including Customs are forced to operate with reduced manpower.

" He added that at this time, there is a need to ensure that shipments for supporting COVID-19 treatment like oxygen concentrators, medicines and other equipment are cleared and delivered without delay.

The actions taken by Customs department to clarify and simplify procedures and expedite clearance of these items is a welcome support, he said.

He added, "With these measures, oxygen concentrators entering the country, will be pre-approved and can be shipped to the destination immediately after arrival.

This will help logistics companies like us to ensure faster delivery.

" While basic duty has been exempted on oxygen concentrators and Remdesivir, the IGST is payable.

"If IGST is exempted for import by individuals, this will further expedite the time sensitive deliveries," said Subramanian.

?Express Industry Council of India CEO Vijay Kumar said, "We are happy to note that in this crisis situation Indian Customs have proactively waived off basic customs duty for critically required oxygen concentrators to save lives.

" He added that they are engaging with the logistics service providers, including express operators, to ensure seamless logistics by mitigating customs clearance.

Express delivery services, with all the constraints they have been facing on the ground since the start of the pandemic, are ensuring critically needed medicines.

Equipment are moved into the country using their global network including freighters and on ground support systems, he added.
By Associated Press

LONDON: Foreign and development ministers from the Group of Seven leading industrial nations will be meeting in London this week in their first face-to-face discussions in two years, with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken holding talks with British host Dominic Raab later Monday.

The withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan and a post-Brexit trade deal are likely to feature in the discussions between Blinken and Raab. A possible prisoner exchange deal with Iran is also likely to feature in their talks.

Speculation has mounted that the United States and the U.K. are in discussions with Iran over the release of prisoners, which could see the release of British-Iranian woman Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe.

Early Monday, Blinken held bilateral talks Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi on an array of subjects including the coronavirus pandemic and the climate crisis as well as raising concerns over North Korea's nuclear and ballistic missile programs.

On Tuesday, the full G-7 will meet. In addition to the other members of the G-7  Canada, France, Germany, Italy the European Union  representatives from Australia, India, Japan, South Korea, and South Africa have also been invited.

Before the meeting, Britain's Foreign Office said the G-7 ministers will invest $15 billion in development finance over the next two years to help women in developing countries access jobs, build resilient businesses and recover from the coronavirus pandemic.

They are also expected to sign up to new targets to get 40 million more girls into school, and 20 million more girls reading by the age of 10 in poorer nations by 2026.
By PTI

NEW DELHI: Markets regulator Sebi on Monday said it will auction a property Kerala Housing Finance at a reserve price of Rs 55 lakh on June 4, to recover dues.

The property to be put on sale is a fully furnished flat situated at Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) said in a notice.

The move is part of Sebi's effort to recover investors' money.

Kerala Housing Finance had garnered funds from investors through issuance of securities without complying with the regulatory norms.

The regulator has engaged Quikr Realty Ltd to assist it for sale of the property, through e-auction platform, C1 India.

In the notice, Sebi has invited bids by June 2, from the intending bidders along with an amount equivalent to 10 per cent of the reserve price as earnest money deposit (EMD) for the sale of the property.

The online auction will take place on June 4, between 11 am and 12 pm.

The intending bidders should make their own independent enquiries regarding the encumbrances, litigations, attachments, acquisition liabilities of the asset in respect of the property put on auction, prior to submitting their bid, as per the notice.

"The successful bidder shall have to deposit 25 per cent of the successful bid amount (inclusive of EMD amount), immediately after the close of the auction and the balance amount along with 1 per cent of highest bid amount as poundage fee within 15 days from close of auction," it added.

According to a Sebi order, Kerala Housing Finance had issued six series of secured redeemable Non-Convertible Debentures (NCDs) labelled A to F to 23,538 allottees and mobilised funds to the tune of Rs 158 crore during 1999-2014.

In addition, the company had allotted preference shares to a total of 1,071 investors and garnered Rs 19 crore during 2014-15 and 2015-16, as per the order.

In August 2017, Sebi had directed Kerala Housing Finance and its promoters as well as directors to refund investors' money, along with interest, within 180 days The move came after the regulator received a reference from National Housing Bank stating that Kerala Housing Finance raised funds from the public without complying with the regulatory requirements.
Bosky Khanna By

Express News Service

BENGALURU: As the State and City face shortage of hospitals to treat Covid patients and with demand only increasing, Bengalureans and resident welfare associations are trying hard to help the needy. At Rajarajeshwari Nagar, local residents and a team of Ayush doctors have found a 400-bed abandoned childrens hospital, which can be converted into a makeshift Covid Care Centre (CCC).

It will be a critical facility in fighting the pandemic as it has an oxygen supply line too. But the present owner of the property is not keen to give it up. He told The New Indian Express that he wants to demolish the building and create an apartment complex instead. The building does not have any facilities as people claim. It does not have the power supply too. I dont see any need for it to be used as a CCC, he said But local residents and doctors are not convinced. We have seen this place. It does have all the facilities.

It only needs to be cleaned up, some beds added and some of those beds connected to oxygen lines. The property owner does not want to give it free of cost, said an RR Nagar resident. Dr Raghavendra Rao M, Director of Ayush and another resident of RR Nagar, said that the building was functioning as a childrens hospital till 2008, but closed after funding from the Malaysian Doctors Foundation stopped. It was later taken over by a private hospital chain, but it too could not run the facility.

Now the building is abandoned. It should ideally be reopened and converted into a CCC. Politicians and BBMP officials are trying to convince the property owner to reopen it on a temporary basis. The developer might be in a better position to understand as his brother is in ICU, he said. Meanwhile, doctors at Bowring Hospital are requesting the government to drop a proposal to convert PMSIS building, the only government-run super-specialty hospital in Bengaluru, into a Covid hospital.

The government has forgotten that there are non- Covid patients too. Last time, during the lockdown, the hospital was closed and it was used as the resting area for doctors and nurses. It is the only multi-specialty hospital in the state, run by the government, where patients are given treatment at a nominal cost. If this is also converted into a Covid hospital, where will other patients go, asked Bowring Hospital doctors.
By PTI

NEW DELHI: Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia on Monday wrote to Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman urging her to exempt GST on oxygen concentrators for the next six months due to raging COVID-19 pandemic.

Citing Delhi's COVID-19 data, he said the national capital's health infrastructure is stretched to the limit.

On an average, there have been 25,000 new COVID cases everyday in Delhi and about 10 per cent of them require some form of hospitalisation including oxygen support, he said.

"More than 50,000 patients currently are in home isolation and about a quarter of them need some form of oxygen support at home due to difficulty in availability of oxygen beds in the NCT of Delhi," Sisodia said.

"Oxygen concentrators are in short supply and even if one manages to arrange oxygen cylinder, there is unprecedented shortfall in the availability of medical oxygen creating uncertainty and panic among patients under home isolation," he added.

There is no availability of oxygen concentrators in the market, he said.

While expressing gratitude to the government for "allowing the import of oxygen concentrators for personal use through e-commerce portals till July 31 and also the reduction of IGST on such imports from 28 per cent to 12 per cent", he said oxygen concentrators have become essential life support machines during the ongoing crisis.

"It would be appropriate if the government of India and the GST Council consider exempting GST on oxygen concentrators for a period of six months to make them more affordable for our citizens," he said in the letter.

ALSO WATCH:
By PTI

NEW DELHI: An 'Oxygen Express' for Delhi, carrying 30.86 tonnes of liquid medical oxygen, from Angul in Odisha is expected to arrive on Monday evening, while another is on its way from West Bengal's Durgapur, the railway ministry said.

The train from Durgapur is carrying 120 tonnes of liquid medical oxygen (LMO) and is likely to reach Delhi on Tuesday, it said.

The railways so far has delivered around 1125 tonnes of LMO in 76 tankers to various states.

Twenty 'Oxygen Express' trains have already completed their journey and seven more such trains loaded with around 422 tonnes of LMO in 27 tankers are on way to their destinations, the ministry said.

"It is the Indian Railways endeavour to deliver as much LMO as possible in the shortest time possible to the requesting states," it said.

"Oxygen Express to Delhi carrying 120 tonnes of Liquid Medical Oxygen is on its way from Durgapur and is expected to reach Delhi on May 4, 2021," the ministry said.

Telangana will receive its second 'Oxygen Express' from Angul carrying 60.23 tonnes of LMO.

Haryana will receive its fourth and fifth such train carrying nearly 72 tonnes from Angul and Rourkela.

Another Oxygen Express with 85 tonnes is on its way from Hapa (Gujarat) to Gurgaon, the ministry said.

More 'Oxygen Express' trains to Madhya Pradesh (its fourth train), Uttar Pradesh (its tenth train), Telangana, Haryana and Delhi carrying 422.

08 tonnes of LMO are on their way.

Out of the 1,125 tonnes of LMO, Maharashtra got 174 tonnes, Uttar Pradesh 430.51 tonnes, Madhya Pradesh 156.96 tonnes, Delhi 190 tonnes, Haryana 109.71 tonnes and Telangana 63.6 tonnes.

ALSO WATCH:
By PTI

NEW DELHI: A PIL urged the Delhi High Court on Monday to direct the Delhi government to cap the price of High Resolution Computerised Tomography (HRCT) which is used for detecting the presence and severity of COVID-19 infection in the lungs of patients.

A bench of Chief Justice D N Patel and Justice Jasmeet Singh issued notice to the Delhi government and sought its stand on the plea by Shivleen Pasricha, a lawyer, who has claimed that for detection of COVID-19 amongst suspected/ probable patients, the most widely recommended test is RT-PCR.

"At present, the price for getting HRCT done in Delhi is somewhere between Rs 5,000 to Rs 6,500. As such, regulation of price of the same has become the need of an hour.

"That in light of the present gruesome circumstances in Delhi, regulating the price of HRCT, becomes all imperative and necessary," the petition has said.

According to the petition, filed through advocate Amresh Anand, the cost of HRCT in the national capital is "unregulated and very high" beyond what a common man can afford.

It has further claimed that HRCT has, in the current state of circumstances, become one of the most relevant and vital tests, recommended actively by the doctors for the diagnosis, management and treatment of infection in suspected or probable COVID-19 patients.

"Of late, it has been seen that multiple variants of COVID-19 are not detectable through RT-PCR.

"As such, for better diagnosis, a large number of doctors today are alternatively recommending HRCT test/ scan to suspected/ probable COVID-19 patients for detecting the presence and determining the specificity and severity of COVID-19 infection in them," the petition has said.

HRCT is basically an imaging procedure that uses narrow beams of X-rays to create a high-resolution image of the patient's lung anatomy, the plea has said.
By Express News Service

HBO Maxs upcoming Green Lantern series has roped in actor Finn Wittrock to play a lead role.

Based on characters from DC, the ten-episode series was first announced as being in development in 2019, with a series being ordered last year.

According to Variety, Wittrock will star as Guy Gardner, who is described as a hulking mass of masculinity and an embodiment of 1980s hyper-patriotism. The shows story will span decades and galaxies, featuring multiple Lanterns over the years. The story will begin from 1941, on Earth, with the first Green Lantern, FBI agent Alan Scott and 1984, with the Gardner and half-alien Bree Jarta.

As of now, Wittrock is the only cast member announced. Created by John Broome and Gil Kane, Gardner will be remembered by comic-book fans for his appearances in Keith Giffens Justice League comics of the 1980s and 90s

The Green Lantern series will be co-written and executive produced by Greg Berlanti, Seth Grahame-Smith and Marc Guggenheim, with Grahame-Smith serving as showrunner. Geoff Johns, Sarah Schechter, David Madden, and David Katzenberg also executive produce, with Elizabeth Hunter and Sara Saedi co-executive producing.

Berlanti Productions will produce in association with Warner Bros. Television, where Berlanti is under a rich overall deal. Wittrock is known for featuring in films like The Big Short, The Last Black Man in San Francisco, If Beale Street Could Talk, and Unbroken.
Manju Latha Kalanidhi And Steni Simon By

Express News Service

A few years ago, the poster girl of child education rights, Malala Yousafzai, told the UN that one child, one teacher, one book, and one pen could change the world. The pandemic changed the world of books digitally, but die-hard bibliophiles in India have taken her advice seriously.

Book activists such as Shankar Reddy Patlolla in Telangana and Vijesh in Kerala are establishing local, crowdsourced libraries in their towns and villages to combat the reading famine caused by the COVID-19 wave.

Twenty-nine-year-old Patlolla, a farmer-poet-activist, started a local library with his pocket money last year. During the peak lockdown period last summer, he had stayed for over a month at a migrant camp on the outskirts of Hyderabad where over one lakh labourers were preparing to leave for home.

They had little to do except anxiously watching the news on their phones. "After the lockdown ended, I thought of starting a free public library," he says. Heading the requests of locals, he established three more libraries under the 'Pustaka Kendram' label in Erravalli, Gottimukkula and Pullumamidi villages between February and March this year.

Vijesh, a school teacher, along with a bunch of locals in Perumkulam, a village five km from Kottarakkara, Kerala, are spearheading the Pusthaka Koodu (book nest) initiative that involves placing small boxes containing books in various parts of their village.

It costs a minimum Rs 60,000 to establish a library, with at least 600 books. Well-wishers donated books, racks, reading lights and chairs for Patlolla's campaign. A school principal offered space in his school. Friends, family, top civil servants, businessmen, CEOs, educationists and authors came forward to help. Local students at each location run the libraries. "Well set up libraries wherever there is a need. We hope to add e-books next. Ive cracked the code," Patlolla declares.

Meanwhile, in India's most literate state, Perumkulam village is setting an example for reading in a simple and efficient way. Registered with the NGO Little Free Library, the house-shaped wooden book nest contains 30 to 50 books, mostly childrens literature. There is even a register to enter the names of borrowers. Children to adults waiting at the bus stop can grab a book.

College student Abhirami is glad that she does not have to visit the public library far away from her house anymore, thanks to the book nests. "I can choose my books at any time of the day. Books are meant to be shared," he said.

The concept behind these micro libraries is 'Take a Book, Leave a Book'. The initiative has given Perumkulam the title of 'Village of Books' after Bhilar in Maharashtra. The same year Bilar got the honour in 2017, Perumkulam built the first Pusthaka Koodu.

Says Vijesh, "Our purpose is to plant and nurture the reading habit in children who are engrossed in technology after learning went online." He admits to feeling initially sceptical of the project's success.

After having the first book nest in place, the overwhelming popular response led them to install more. "I prefer comics and try to finish one fast, so that I can take my next book immediately," says Sharath B, a Class VIII student.

Sindhu K Unnithan, another avid reader, says, "Though the initiative focuses on children, it is equally helpful in spreading awareness about reading a among adults. Since the books are being replaced with more books, everybody gets to read a new book."

She regularly borrows books for herself and her 15- and 11-year-olds to read. The locals have sponsored more Pusthaka Koodus in the village. Pustaka Kendram and Pusthaka Koodus are signs that the virus cannot keep a good reader down.
Medha Dutta Yadav By

Express News Service

Take a nibble off the golden triangle's corner. Smell the fragrant steam rising from the mincemeat stuffing. Squeeze some lemon on it. Add a dash of mint chutney. Blow in through the hole to cool the inside. Take a mouthful. Sigh. This is the recommended procedure to relish the famous smoked keema samosa at Mumbai's The Bohri Kitchen (TBK) owned by Munaf Kapadia.

With the city reeling under a never-subsiding coronavirus tsunami, samosas are salvation. So is TBKs pineapple ice cream, rainbow pulao, zuban (goat tongue) in red gravy, bheja (brain) pakora and ghevar mithai. TBK is a pioneer in organised Bohri commercial cuisine in Mumbai where until four-odd years ago, the menu was niche and the khansamas rare.

Kapadia was inspired by the traditional dinners made by his mother. TBK started off for selective clients being served in the familys dining room. Mumbai is an eclectic food city - like the butter chicken of Delhi Punjabis and the shami kababs of Purani Dilli, Mumbai's generic food comes from Parsi tables, Irani cafes and the kitchens of the Bohras.

"Security and stability are subjective," says the foodpreneur who quit a job at Google to sell samosas and has been featured in Forbes Under 30 list. The company's monthly turnover reached Rs 35 lakh with over 200 orders a day.

"In August 2015, when I was hesitant to take the leap, my boss said, 'Kapadia, in the worst case scenario, TBK won't work out and youll be back to the corporate race. But, if TBK works out, what it would do for your personal and professional growth would be incomparable'. I took his advice.

To catch up on pandemic reading, a samosa aficionado cannot make a better choice than How I Quit Google to Sell Samosas by Kapadia and published by HarperCollins India. A light-hearted take on his entrepreneurial journey as the Chief Eating Officer of TBK, it captures the highs and lows of setting up a food business.

"My parents have impacted and contributed to my success. They are behind the incredibly high C-Sat (customer satisfaction) and the impeccable quality of TBK's menu. It is ironic that people give me credit for empowering my mother, when its the other way round," Kapadia says.

Having become famous for signature Bohri dishes, TBK has wowed the Bollywood crowd. He recalls the evening when a young lady came for a weekend meal. Throughout the meal she kept her sunglasses on. "I was surprised because our living room isnt that well lit," remembers Kapadia.

It was only when she got up to wash her hands that the family recognised her - film actor Aditi Rao Hydari, a half Bohri herself. Another time, Kapadia got a call from 'Adi' asking for a 'Thaal' experience to be arranged at his residence. He refused since they had not begun catering yet. Later it turned out that it was Aditya Chopra of Yash Raj Films. He wanted to treat his wife Rani Mukherjee, which Kapadia eventually agreed.

Before the COVID-19 wave, Kapadia had scaled up TBK from an exclusive home dining concept to an exotic delivery business with five outlets. "The pandemic stopped us in our tracks," he regrets. Now TBK has shrunk to one outlet, but it plans to expand to other cities such as Delhi and Bengaluru.

"Despite the uncertainty we are not giving up. We are fighting COVID with our own weapon -Bohrifoodcoma which is equally contagious, but of the good kind. We are kind of starting from scratch, one biryani at a time," smiles Kapadia. Mumbai is not complaining about getting infected, for once.

Dal Chawal Palida

Ingredients

Palida

Tur dal: 200 gm; methi dana: 1 tbsp; sabut jeera: 1 tbsp; garlic: 2 tbsp chopped; besan: 2 tbsp; onion: 1 chopped; tomatoes: 3-4 chopped; kokum: 2-3; drumsticks: 4 peeled and cut; turmeric powder: 1/2 tsp; chilli powder: 1 tbsp; salt to taste

Dal Chawal

Leftover dal from the palida; basmati rice: 400 gm soaked for 2 hours; garlic: 2 tbsp; onion: 3 sliced; cinnamon: 1 small stick; cloves: 3; sabut jeera: 2 tbsp; capsicum: 1 sliced; ghee: 3 tbsp

methods

Palida

Cook dal with 5 cups of water, salt and turmeric; strain and keep the water; heat 2 tbsp oil, add garlic, saute till golden brown; add methi, jeera, red chilli powder, turmeric and besan; roast and add onions, tomatoes; pour in some of the water of the dal, stirring continuously; add the kokum, drumsticks; let it cook on slow flame till the drumsticks are done; garnish with fresh coriander.

Dal Chawal

Boil water and add the rice; add salt and juice of one lime. When rice is half-cooked drain out the water; heat ghee; add garlic, jeera, cloves and cinnamon; saute and add onions; fry till golden; add capsicum and cook for 2 minutes; add the remaining dal; In a flat pan layer basmati followed by dal, and rice again; garnish with fried onions; pour 2 tsp of ghee on top; simmer for 20 minutes on a tawa.

Good Food, Good Times

TBK, with its curated home dining concept, takes guests through the history of the Bohra community, the story behind every dish with tidbits of trivia thrown in. The meal is eaten around a Thaala large communal metal plate that can seat up to eight people around it. Around 25-50 people are hosted every weekend, with the menu comprising seven courses that changes every week.
While we can see the light at the end of the tunnel of the global health crisis of the last year, the economic impacts on our families and small businesses have not diminished, said Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie (D-Bronx). Extending these moratoriums will give people the time they need to recover financially, keep families in their homes, and keep businesses doors open.
By PTI

NEW DELHI: The Centre on Monday said the rising number of daily COVID-19 cases in some states remains a cause of concern and while a few others like Delhi and Maharashtra are plateauing in terms of daily cases, these are "very early signals" and containment efforts have to continue to break the chain of transmission.

Addressing a news briefing, Joint Secretary in the Health Ministry Lav Agarwal said 13 states, including Delhi, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Punjab, Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh, are showing early signs of plateauing or decrease in daily new COVID-19 cases.

He said states like Bihar, Rajasthan, Haryana, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Karnataka and West Bengal are still showing an increase in daily infections.

Delhi, which had recorded 25,294 cases on April 24, registered 24,253 cases on May 2.

ALSO READ | Mild COVID-19 patients don't need CT scan as it does more harm than good, says Centre

Similarly, Maharashtra had reported 65,442 infections on April 24 and 62,417 on April 30.

Chhattisgarh, where 15,583 cases were reported on April 29, recorded 14,087 fresh cases on May 2.

A similar trend has been seen in Daman and Diu, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Ladakh, Lakshadweep, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand.

On the situation in districts, Agarwal said Durg, Gariyaband, Raipur, Rajnandgaon in Chhattisgarh; Chhindwara, Guna, Shajapur in Madhya Pradesh, Leh in Ladakh; Nirmal in Telangana are showing signs of decline in cases in the last 15 days.

Agarwal said 12 districts of Maharashtra are also showing signs of a decline during the period.

"However, these are very early signals. It is important to have continued efforts of containment at district and state level so that we can preserve these gains and reduce cases further," he said.

He further said there are 12 states where active cases are more than a lakh.

They are Maharashtra, Gujarat, Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu.

There are seven states where the active cases are in the range of 50,000 to 1 lakh cases and 17 states where the active cases are more than 50,000.

ALSO WATCH:

There are 22 states where the positivity rate is more than 15 percent and in nine states the positivity rate is between 5 to 15 percent and in five states it is less than five percent.

He said states and union territories like Andaman and Nicobar, Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Goa, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Karnataka, Kerala, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, Meghalaya and Odisha are showing an increasing trend in daily cases.

Puducherry, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Tripura and West Bengal are also in the same situation.

"Today, it is important to analyse the cases at micro-level and continue with the efforts in the areas from where the cases are being reported," he said.

15.72 crore COVID vaccine doses given so far

On vaccine coverage, the Joint Secretary said cumulatively 15.72 crore doses have been given -- first dose to 12.83 crore people and second dose for 2.89 crore.

These include 12.07 crore doses (first dose for 10.53 crore people and second dose for 1.54 crore) which have been administered to those aged 45 and above.

The number of individuals in the age group of 18-44 who have taken the first dose of the vaccine is 0.02 crore.

Twelve states have started COVID-19 vaccination for individuals in the age group of 18-44 years from May 1, Agarwal informed.

This is "an additionality" as there was a demand from several quarters.

But based on evidence our priority continues to be those above 45 and they are still being vaccinated free of cost at government centres, he highlighted.

On declaring journalists as frontline workers, Agarwal said, "Every person in some way or the other is a frontline worker today."

"We have chosen only those who were involved in the containment work. But now we have expanded the vaccination programme and relaxed the age limit so much so that even if one is not a frontliner, he or she can get inoculated," he said.

Avoid CT scan, steroids in case of mild symptoms

AIIMS Director Dr Randeep Guleria warned against rushing for CT scans in cases of mild COVID-19, saying there are side effects and it can end up doing more harm than good.

"One CT scan is equal to 300 to 400 chest X-rays. According to data, repeated CT scans in younger age groups increases the risk of cancer in later life.

"Exposing yourself to radiation again and again may cause damage. So there is no point in doing CT scan in mild COVID-19 cases if oxygen saturation is normal," he said.

He said many people take steroids in early stage itself which could lead to replication of the virus.

"Steroids are for moderate illness only and patients with mild illness under home isolation, do not require the same, he said, adding CT scans are biomarkers are being misused and they can be harmful as well.

On mutant strains, Agarwal said the field strategy for management of COVID-19 remains the same irrespective of it being caused by a double mutant virus or UK variant or South Africa or Brazil mutant.

"Some mutants have higher transmissibility, but mutant or no mutant, the actions to be taken to control the disease remains the same. We cannot be complacent in following COVID appropriate behaviour," he stated.

Increasing recoveries are early gains, continuous work needed

Agarwal said that an increasing share of recoveries vis-a-vis new cases is a positive trend.

Until April 20, the percentage of daily new recoveries against daily new cases was 60 percent.

It fell below 60 on April 21 and 22 and April 23 However, it started rising and stood at 82 percent on May 3.

"These are early gains on which we need to work on a continuous basis," he said.

He emphasised the need to work on the health infrastructure and said many decisions have been taken to augment them.

Agarwal also stressed the need to focus on the root cause in terms of managing the spread of infection to avoid stress on health infrastructure.

A run-away spread of infection may lead to an overwhelming of healthcare infrastructure and various core capacities needed for the management of patients, he said, noting that while the government is working towards the supply-side approach, it is important to focus on the demand side management in terms of infection spread.

"collectively, we need to focus on breaking the chain of transmission. There is an urgent need to preserve areas that are still reporting relatively less cases. Intensive action and local containment need to be taken up in areas reporting higher cases," garwal said.

Steps to deal with oxygen shortage

The government is working on how to use gaseous oxygen for medical use from steel plants, petrochemical units, power plants and refineries.

Agarwal said industrial units which produce gaseous oxygen of requisite purity closer to cities are being identified and temporary COVID Care Centres with oxygenated beds proposed to be established near that source.

A pilot for five such facilities has already been initiated, Agarwal said.

Further, the plan is to prepare 10,000 oxygenated beds that can be made available through this initiative.

State governments are being encouraged to set up more such facilities.

Agarwal added that 1,500 PSA oxygen generation plants are in the process of being set up.

To further augment the supply of oxygen, he said the government is exploring the feasibility of converting existing nitrogen plants to produce oxygen.

He said 14 such industries have been identified for converting their PSA nitrogen plants to produce oxygen duly replacing Carbon Molecular Sieve (CMS) with Zeolite Molecular Sieve (ZMS) and other associated changes.

Thirty-seven nitrogen plants have already been identified for conversion with the help of industry associations.

"Such modified nitrogen plants can then either be shifted to nearby hospitals or supply oxygen through tankers," he said.
By PTI

NEW DELHI: Pfizer is in discussions with the Indian government for an expedited approval pathway to make Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine available in the country, its chief Albert Bourla said on Monday, while stating that the firm is donating medicines worth USD 70 million (over Rs 510 crore) for treatment of COVID-19 patients in India.

"We are deeply concerned by the critical COVID-19 situation in India, and our hearts go out to you, your loved ones and all the people of India," he said in a mail sent to Pfizer India employees that he posted on linkedin.

Pfizer is committed to being a partner in India's fight against this disease and is quickly working to mobilise the largest humanitarian relief effort in the company's history, he added.

"Right now, Pfizer colleagues at distribution centres in the US, Europe and Asia are hard at work rushing shipments of Pfizer medicines that the Government of India has identified as part of its COVID treatment protocol," Bourla said.

Pfizer is donating these medicines to help make sure that every COVID-19 patient in every public hospital across the country can have access to company's medicines they need free of charge, he added.

"These medicines, valued at more than USD 70 million, will be made available immediately, and we will work closely with the government and our NGO partners to get them to where they are needed most," Bourla said.

ALSO READ | Canada to start to get Pfizer vaccines from the US next week

This effort, in combination with Pfizer Foundation funding that supports humanitarian organisations providing essential and life-saving equipment to India, such as ventilators, oxygen concentrators and consumables, is our most comprehensive humanitarian relief response ever, he added.

He also said that the company is aware that access to vaccines is critical to ending this pandemic.

"Unfortunately, our vaccine is not registered in India although our application was submitted months ago.

We are currently discussing with the Indian government an expedited approval pathway to make our Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine available for use in the country," Bourla said.

Pfizer stands in solidarity with all those currently affected by COVID-19 in India and around the world and will continue to do everything possible to provide assistance, he added.

"As we work to meet the public health need and to be a partner with the Government of India to establish a path forward for our vaccine, please know you and your loved ones are foremost in our thoughts and prayers," Bourla said.

Earlier in April, Pfizer said that it had offered a not-for-profit price for its vaccine for the government immunisation programme in India.

"Pfizer remains committed to continuing our engagement with the government towards making the Pfizer and BioNTech vaccine available for use in the government's immunisation programme in the country," the company had said in April in email response to PTI.

The Indian government last month allowed emergency use approval of the imported vaccines in India which have been granted emergency approval for restricted use by United States Food and Drug Administration (USFDA), European Medicines Agency (EMA), UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (UK MHRA), Pharmaceuticals and Medical Device Agency (PMDA) Japan or which are listed in WHO (emergency use listing).

ALSO WATCH:
By PTI

MUMBAI: A Maharashtra minister on Monday said Serum Institute of India's CEO Adar Poonawalla should lodge a police complaint in connection with the alleged threats that he has received, and assured the state government will conduct an in-depth probe into it.

Poonawalla, who has been in the UK on extended stay to evade alleged threats in India over the ever-increasing demand for COVID-19 vaccines, has said he will return in a few days.

In a recent interview to 'The Times', Poonawalla alleged that he had been receiving threats in India and that he and his family left the country for London after unprecedented "pressure and aggression" over the demand of COVID-19 vaccines.

The Pune-based Serum Institute of India (SII) is producing 'Covishield' - the Oxford/AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine.

"Poonawalla should lodge a complaint giving details of threat and the phone number from where he got the call.

We will conduct an in-depth probe into it," Minister of State Home Shamburaje Desai told reporters.

Meanwhile, Maharashtra Congress president Nana Patole urged Poonawalla to return to India and assured that his party will take the responsibility of his security.

ALSO WATCH:

"People's lives are important and the vaccine production should take place in India only. The Centre has already given him 'Y' category security. More (security) would be given if necessary," he said.

The Congress will also take the responsibility of protecting him, said Patole, whose party shares power in Maharashtra with the Shiv Sena and NCP.

"No one will touch him. He should return and work on vaccine production," the Congress leader said.

However, NCP leader and state Minority Affairs Minister Nawab Malik claimed Poonawalla was responsible for the present situation he is in and that no one was defaming him.

"First, he announces Rs 150 price (per dose of Covishield vaccine) for the central government, Rs 400 for states and Rs 700 for private hospitals.

Later, through a tweet he informed that he was reducing the price for states from Rs 400 to Rs 300," Malik said.

This has created suspicion and there are lot of questions in the minds of the people, the minister said.

Earlier, NCP leader and Maharashtra Housing Minister Jitendra Awhad said the country needs to know the truth behind the alleged threats to Poonawalla.
By PTI

NEW DELHI: The World Association of Press Councils, an umbrella body of press councils and similar media organisations around the globe, called on governments to treat journalists as frontline corona warriors fighting the COVID-19 pandemic.

The WAPC, while observing the World Press Freedom Day, also asserted that journalists should be vaccinated on a priority basis so that they remain safe while doing their duty, a statement said.

Eminent journalists from all across the world urged the governments of countries to come to the aid of journalists at this critical time since they are fighting with the crisis like doctors and other front line workers.

Addressing a webinar, the WAPC president, Sule Akre, a renowned columnist and chairperson of the North Cyprus Press Council, expressed serious concern over the situation in India which has witnessed death of many journalists both in the first and second wave.

This year's World Press Freedom Day has been conceptualised by UNESCO with the theme Information as a Public Good.

Participants from Asia, Europe and Africa took part in the online meeting.

The WAPC passed a resolution condoling the demise of all journalists during the pandemic.

Prakash Dubey, Editor of Dainik Bhaskar group, quoted Delhi-based Institute of Perception Studies, to state that as many as 101 journalists have succumbed to COVID-19 between April 1, 2020 and April 28, 2021.

Munish Gupta, president of the South Asian Foreign Correspondent Club, talked about how media groups have come together to meet the crisis.

The theme of the day this year is more appropriate in the COVID-19-hit world considered to be the pandemic of the century than ever before, Kishore Shrestha, Secretary General of WAPC, said.

The World Press Freedom Day calls for urgent attention to the threat of extinction faced by local news media around the world, a crisis worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic, he said.

The World Press Freedom Day acts as a reminder to governments for the need to respect their commitment to press freedom, Shrestha said.

It is also a day of reflection among media professionals about issues of press freedom and professional ethics, he said.

Ziada Kilobo of Tanzania Media Council spoke about the COVID-19-hit African countries.
By Express News Service

GUWAHATI: The hotchpotch alliance of 10 opposition parties with contrasting ideologies, which also had no chief ministerial face, found few takers eventually.

The Mahajot, formed two months ago to oust BJP, was led by Congress. It faced a leadership crisis and got riddled with factionalism following the death of former Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi.

The Congress and minority-based All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) had come together to thwart the split of anti-BJP and anti-Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) votes. In 2016, their combined vote share was more than the winning candidates of the BJP-led alliance in 14 seats.

If the alliance paid dividends in the Bengali-majority central and lower Assam besides Barak Valley, it cost the Congress dear in the Assamese-dominated upper part of the state. In a state grappling with the problem of illegal migration from Bangladesh, voters in upper Assam were upset that Congress aligned with AIUDF, perceived to be the protector of illegal immigrants.

The alliance with the AIUDF affected us greatly in upper Assam, a Congress insider said.

Of other reasons, he said Congress had a leadership vacuum after Gogois death. People did not accept the leadership of state Congress chief Ripun Bora. As we did not have a CM face, people got confused.

Further, the two new parties, Raijor Dal and Asom Jatiya Parishad, caused a split of the anti-BJP and anti-AGP votes in several seats, thereby affecting the Congress. Congress also overestimated or miscalculated the anti-CAA sentiments. Even as it campaigned aggressively, several leaders of the anti-CAA movement joined BJP.
By PTI

JAMMU: Senior Jammu and Kashmir BJP leader and former MLC Vikram Randhawa got a showcause notice by the party's disciplinary committee, hours after he levelled corruption charges against Union minister Jitendra Singh.

Randhawa has been asked to reply within two days along with any evidence to prove his claim.

Randhawa, who is the president of Stone Crusher Owners Association, levelled serious allegations of corruption against Singh's office in Jammu over the issue of mining policy and also threatened to immolate himself next week.

Singh's office in Jammu had also taken serious note of the allegations and set a deadline for Randhawa of 24 hours, asking him to prove his allegations or seek a public apology otherwise get ready to face a defamation case of Rs 1 crore.

"This notice of show cause initiates disciplinary proceedings against you in line with directions of Jammu and Kashmir Bhartiya Janata Party President (Ravinder Raina) with regard to addressing a press conference and a series of media interactions by you while leveling unfounded allegations against a senior leader of party holding responsible position in the Union Council of ministers," reads a letter by the three-member disciplinary committee addressed to party Secretary Randhawa.

The letter, signed by the chairman of the BJP's disciplinary committee Sunil Sethi and members Virenderjeet Singh and N D Rajwal, took note of the "unparliamentary language" used by the leader, terming it "highly objectionable".

More so, this has prima facie tarnished the image of the party, believing strictly in discipline and decency.

You are hereby directed to file your reply alongwith evidence, if any available with you, within next two days," t\he letter said, adding on receipt of the reply, the next date in the matter would be fixed.

The letter said the proceedings would be done expeditiously and the report will be submitted to J&K BJP president within two weeks positively.

Earlier during the day, Randhawa said he had not rebelled against the party or the leadership, but wanted the "facts" to reach the high command including Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Randhawa alleged that the registered stone crushers are facing the worst of the times since 2017 and their children are on the verge of starvation due to the mining department.

He made allegations of Singh's Jammu office being hand-in-glove with the mining department of the union territory.

"I want to clarify that BJP has no role in it. I have been a BJP worker for the last 30 years while Singh is just a decade old and was introduced into the party by me and also ensured a ticket to him in 2014 parliamentary elections," he said.

Reacting to the allegations of the senior party leader, BJP executive member, Sanjeev Sharma expressed his displeasure, saying, "He had levelled allegations on this office as well as the Union Minister directly.

"If he had any proof, he should come forward within 24 hours and make it public or otherwise tender a public apology to the Union minister who has decided to file a defamation case of Rs one crore against him," Sharma told reporters at a presser here.

Meanwhile, the Congress has demanded an impartial probe into the allegations leveled by senior BJP leader against party colleague in the Prime Minister's office.

"It is a serious matter as allegations were leveled against a senior BJP leader in the PMO and bureaucracy we appeal to Lt Governor to order a high level probe to unravel the truth," senior Congress leader and former minister Yogesh Sawhney said.
By PTI

NEW DELHI: The Congress on Monday demanded transparency in the distribution of aid during the COVID-19 pandemic and urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to make public details of all relief material received by India from different countries.

Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera expressed hope that the party which wanted to make India Congress-free would strive to make the country free of COVID pandemic and work with sincerity in achieving this.

He also took a swipe at Health Minister Harsh Vardhan over what he claimed was the world's largest vaccination programme and said it is one without vaccines.

"The prime minister should make public the relief coming in from various countries to ensure transparency, so that people should know where the relief material is coming and going. This is our demand as well as that of the people of the country," he told reporters.

ALSO READ | Australian PM defends ban on citizens returning from India; says it's in 'best interests'

The Congress leader said the party is there to support the government in the fight against COVID pandemic, but stressed that transparency is very important.

"Please be transparent, everybody is fighting this pandemic together. But, for this fight to succeed, the keystone is sincerity and transparency," he said.

Khera noted that everyone has witnessed the tragedy in different parts of the country, including in Delhi, with hospitals pleading and begging for oxygen and wondered what the situation would be in remote areas.

"If this government has done anything, it is media management and headline management but not crisis management in these tough times," he alleged.

COVID-19 vaccines are not available even after people have for registered vaccination on website and the situation with oxygen is the same, he also alleged.

ALSO READ | Indian-origin billionaire businessman Khosla pledges USD 10 million for oxygen supply in India

"It is an irony that the government considers the Central Vista an essential service while thousands of people are craving for oxygen and vaccines.

You (Centre) are patting your back for the world's largest vaccination project, without vaccines being made available," he said.

Taking a swipe at External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar after a spat with Congress leaders in the wake of some foreign embassies seeking the help of Youth Congress in getting oxygen, he said, "You are shamelessly questioning the embassies".

"Stop questioning the embassies, start questioning yourself, where an MP is seeking help and embassies are asking for help in public while tagging the Congress.It is a shame for the country that we have come to this," he said.

Khera said the Congress will question the prime minister for his "ill-timed decision" of exporting the vaccine, oxygen and remdesivir.

"We owe it to the people to stop the government from committing blunders as we are answerable to Indians as an opposition party. We have to stop you from committing mistakes and if we do not stop you, lives will be lost," the Congress leader said.
By PTI

KOLKATA: TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee will be sworn in as the Chief Minister of West Bengal for a third consecutive term on May 5, senior party leader Partha Chatterjee confirmed.

The newly-elected MLAs of the Trinamool Congress unanimously elected Banerjee as the legislative party leader at a meeting here, its secretary-general Partha Chatterjee said.

The TMC legislators elected the speaker in the outgoing House, Biman Banerjee, as the pro-tem speaker in the new Assembly.

"The newly-elected members will take oath in the Assembly from May 6," Chatterjee told reporters at the party headquarters here after the meeting of the legislators.

The BJP emerged as the main opposition party with 77 seats under its belt, while incumbent TMC has won 213 of the 292 seats where polling was held in eight phases in March and April.

ALSO READ | West Bengal Assembly Election results: Nandigram swung like a pendulum

The party is set to return for a third term after registering a resounding win overall but Nandigram remained a bone of contention with a neck-and-neck tussle between CM Mamata Banerjee and BJP's Suvendu Adhikari.

ALSO WATCH:

Banerjee, who lost to Adhikari in the constituency by a narrow margin, has decided to move court over the verdict after the Election Commission refused its request for a recount.

READ MORE HERE | Mamata loses Nandigram but wins election 'khela' of the decade in Bengal at a canter

"How come the EC reversed the Nandigram result after formally announcing it? We will move court, she said at a press meet.

The TMC supremo also stated that this is the first time she didn't receive a congratulatory call from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was spearheading BJP's campaign in the poll-bound state.

It is for the second time in succession that Banerjee powered her party to two-thirds majority in the state assembly.

Importantly, Trinamool Congress has refrained from celebrations amid surging coronavirus cases in the state and decided to hold a victory march once the pandemic is over.

(With inputs from Online Desk)
By PTI

NEW DELHI: The Centre on Monday sought a report from the West Bengal government on post-poll violence targeting opposition workers in the state.

Political workers, including from BJP, were allegedly targeted by opponents since the announcement of results for the 292-member West Bengal assembly where the ruling Trinamool Congress emerged victorious.

"MHA has asked West Bengal Government for a report on the post-election violence targeting opposition political workers in the state," a spokesperson tweeted.

The BJP has alleged that one of its party offices in Hooghly district was set on fire, and some of its leaders, including Suvendu Adhikari, were heckled by TMC activists in other parts of the state.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee urged her supporters to maintain peace and asked them not to fall prey to provocations.

ALSO WATCH:
By Express News Service

NEW DELHI: AIIMS, Delhi, director Randeep Guleria on Monday warned mild COVID-19 patients against rushing for a chest CT scan, saying that it does more harm than good for people with no significant chest infection.

CT scans, he said, expose a person to radiation equivalent to 300-400 X-rays and raises the risk of cancer later in life, especially in younger people.

Guleria, at a briefing by the Union health ministry on the COVID-19 status in the country, also cautioned against the use of routine biomarker blood tests for people with mild symptoms and use of steroids, when not required, as they suppress immune response and may aggravate the diseases course in many people.

Ministry officials meanwhile pointed out that some states including Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra and Punjab are showing early signs of plateauing or decline in daily new cases, but these are very early signals to analyse anything.

"Some other states, however, are showing increasing trends in COVID cases and they should take the required precautionary measures, said Lav Agarwal, joint secretary in the ministry. The states showing rising daily infections include Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Chandigarh, Haryana, Karnataka, Kerala, Himachal Pradesh, Manipur and Meghalaya among others.

The overall cumulative fatality of the country is around 1.10 %, the health ministry highlighted and said that 12 states have over 1 lakh active COVID cases, seven states have 50,000 to 1 lakh cases, while 17 states have less than 50,000 active infections.

As per the details shared, 12 states have started Phase 3 vaccines, and Agarwal said that nearly 2 lakh people aged between 18-44 years have been vaccinated in the country since the vaccination for this age group started on Saturday.

Speaking on the supply of oxygen to treat critical COVID-19 patients in the country, Agarwal said that oxygen plants in industries like steel plants, refineries with petrochemical units, power plants which produce gaseous oxygen are being tapped for medical use.

Industrial units which produce gaseous oxygen of requisite purity closer to cities are being identified and temporary COVID-19 care centres with oxygenated beds are proposed to be established near that source, he said.

A pilot for five such facilities has already been initiated. Nearly 10,000 oxygenated beds can be made available through this initiative. State governments are being encouraged to set up more such facilities, the official added.

It was also announced that the Union government is exploring the feasibility of converting existing nitrogen plants to produce oxygen. Fourteen such plants have been identified for converting their PSA nitrogen plants to produce oxygen, according to Piyush Goyal, additional secretary in the Ministry of Home Affairs.
James, whose successful 2018 AG campaign was endorsed by Cuomo, has tapped a former Manhattan federal prosecutor and an anti-discrimination attorney to lead the inquiry into allegations that the governor sexually harassed 10 women, several of whom are current or former staffers.
By PTI

KOLKATA: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee alleged on Monday that the returning officer of Nandigram feared for his life and so he did not give a recounting order.

Addressing a press meet, Banerjee reiterated that she will move court over the election result in Nandigram where she lost to BJP's Suvendu Adhikari.

Banerjee made public a purported SMS from the Nandigram Returning Officer to a CEO official, claiming that he had expressed fear that if he ordered recounting he would face serious consequences, and may even have to die by suicide.

"How come EC reverse Nandigram result after formally announcing it? We will move court against this," she said.

"Why was the server down for four hours? We are willing to accept people's mandate but if the result of one place has anomalies, there may be something beyond what appears. We have to seek the truth," she added.

ALSO WATCH:

Banerjee urged her supporters to maintain peace amid reports of violence from some areas, asking them not to fall prey to provocations.

The central forces committed many atrocities on TMC supporters during the elections, she alleged.

"Even after the results were announced, BJP attacked our supporters in certain areas but we ask our men not to get provoked and instead report to the police," she said.

Banerjee alleged that some of the police officers worked in a partisan manner against the TMC during the elections.

ALSO READ | Mamata Banerjee to meet Bengal Guv to stake claim to form govt; to move court over Nandigram verdict

Hitting out at the Election Commission, she claimed that the BJP would not have crossed the 50-mark in its tally if the poll panel would not have helped it.

The chief minister again demanded that every citizen of the country should be given free vaccines by the Centre.

"They are sending vaccine and oxygen to two-three states.

Why so? Every state should get its due.

I have heard that in Gujarat, vaccine is being given from the BJP party office.

Does they (BJP) have any expertise in giving vaccines?" she claimed.

Replying to a question, Banerjee said her priority is fighting the pandemic and would think about her role in the national elections of 2024 once the COVID-19 crisis is over.

"I am just a street fighter.

I can boost the morale of the people, so that we can fight a strong fight against the BJP.

One cannot do everything alone and it should be a collective effort.

If collectively we can take a decision, together we can fight the battle of 2024.

But, first let us fight this COVID crisis and then we will decide on this.

Now is not the time," she said.

Banerjee also claimed that the Left was unable to get back the votes that it lost to the BJP, leading to its further downfall.

"I may have political differences with them (Left) but I did not want to see them getting zero.

It would have been better if they got the votes back from the BJP.

They favoured the BJP so much that they became a signboard.

They need to think about this.

Dipankar Bhattacharya (CPIM-L) did not do this," she said.

The chief minister said that she did not get the customary call from Prime Minister Narendra Modi on her victory in the elections.

"This is the first time I saw a prime minister not calling.

It is ok, he may be busy.

I did not take it in sentiment," she said.

PTI SUS AMR SOM SOM 05031714 NNNN
By PTI

NEW DELHI: Navy Chief Admiral Karambir Singh briefed Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday about the initiatives his organisation has taken to help people in fighting COVID-19, and said it has reached out to all state administrations, offering help in terms of hospital beds, transportation and other such matters.

Naval hospitals are being opened for use of civilians in various cities, he told Modi, according to a statement.

He also said that medical personnel in the Navy have been redeployed at various locations in the country to manage COVID duties, and its personnel are also being provided battle field nursing assistant training for deployment in the pandemic duties.

Singh said the Navy is also helping increase oxygen availability in Lakshadweep as well as Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

He also apprised Modi that the Navy is transporting oxygen containers as well as other supplies from Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait and Singapore to India.

ALSO WATCH:
Pushkar Banakar By

Express News Service

NEW DELHI: The BJP-led government at the Centre faced a huge embarrassment on Sunday with the New Zealand High Commission in New Delhi reaching out to the Opposition with requests for supply of oxygen cylinders.

The High Commissions official Twitter handle tweeted asking BV Srinivas, the national president of the Indian Youth Congress, to help arrange oxygen cylinders.

Could you please help with the oxygen cylinder urgently at the New Zealand High Commission, the High Commission asked Srinivas.

The high commission opened gates of the embassy and accepted cylinders, Srinivas tweeted later. Reacting to the development, the MEA said essential medical supplies, including oxygen cylinders, must not be hoarded.

The Chief of Protocol and Heads of Divisions are in continuous touch with all High Commissions/Embassies and MEA is responding to their medical demands, especially those related to Covid. This includes facilitating their hospital treatment, MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said.
By Online Desk

NEET-PG examinations have been deferred for at least four months in view of the surging coronavirus cases in the country, a statement issued by the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) on Monday read.

Seeking to augment human resources deployed in fighting the pandemic, the statement mentioned that this move will enable more qualified doctors to be ready to shoulder covid-19 responsibilities.

The notification stated that final year MBBS students can be utilised for teleconsultation and monitoring mild COVID cases under senior supervision.

Medical interns are to be deployed in COVID management duties under the guidance of their faculty, it read.

This will reduce the workload on the existing doctors engaged in COVID duty and boost the efforts of triaging, it said.

It added that B.Sc. or GNM qualified nurses may be utilised in full-time COVID nursing duties under the supervision of senior doctors and nurses.

The medical students and professionals to be engaged in COVID related work will be suitably vaccinated, it said.

It also stated that medical personnel completing 100 days of COVID duties will be felicitated with 'Prime Minister's Distinguished Covid National Service Samman'.

Further, those engaged in COVID duties will receive priority in forthcoming regular government recruitments after they complete 100 days in duty.

They will also be covered under the government's insurance scheme for health workers engaged in fighting COVID-19.

National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for Post-Graduation (NEET-PG) will be postponed for at least four months, and the exam will not be held before August 31.

(With inputs from PTI)

ALSO WATCH:
Fayaz Wani By

Express News Service

SRINAGAR: Pakistan military on Monday morning violated the ceasefire and opened fire on the BSF in Ramgarh sector in Samba district of Jammu and Kashmir.

This is the first-ever ceasefire violation by Pakistan along the International Border after the two countries signed an agreement on February 24.

A BSF spokesperson told The New Indian Express that Pakistani Rangers resorted to unprovoked firing in Ramgarh sector along the International Border of Samba district at around 6.15 am.

The Pakistani troops fired on the BSF patrol party ahead of the border fencing, he said.

The spokesman said the border guards also retaliated and there was no loss of life or injury to BSF men during the exchange of gunfire.

India and Pakistan released a joint statement announcing a ceasefire along LoC from February 25, following talks between their Directors General of Military Operations. The two countries had agreed to adhere to the November 2003 border ceasefire pact strictly.
By Express News Service

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Monday told the Election Commission that their request to stop media from reporting oral observations is too far-fetched and cannot be allowed.

The observation by a bench headed by Justice D Y Chandrachud came while it was hearing the poll panel's plea challenging the Madras HC's 'murder charges' remark.

The Madras High Court had slammed the Election Commission of India for allowing political rallies amid a deadly second wave of COVID-19 and had observed, Your institution is singularly responsible for the second wave of COVID-19. Election Commission officers should be booked on murder charges probably."

During the hearing, senior advocate Rakesh Dwivedi appearing for the Election Commission sought that the media should not be allowed to report on oral observations of the court and that no criminal complaint can be filed on the basis of oral observations of the court.

At this, Justice Chandrachud said, "The discussion that takes place is as much in the public interest as the final order of the court. The discussion in court is a dialogue between the bar and the bench. Media is a very powerful watchdog in protecting the sanctity of this process."

Justice Chandrachud said, "We dont want to demoralise the High Courts. They are important pillars in our democracy."

The court asked the Election Commission to take the Madras HC's observations in the right spirit.

Justice Chandrachud said, "To say that ECI is not subject to judicial review is not correct. To ask a judge to contain what he says in Court will not do justice to any judicial process."

At this, EC said, "Somewhere a line has to be drawn. Harsh criticism is welcome, but certain observations should not have been made."

The top court has reserved the order on the EC's plea against the Madras HC remark holding it responsible for the COVID-19 surge.
Prasanta Mazumdar By

Express News Service

GUWAHATI: A three-pronged strategy by the BJP helped it sweep the Assam polls and retain power.

The BJP managed to counter the Congress-led grand alliance of the Opposition through developmentalism coupled with populist schemes; core Hindutva with continuous focus on the threat to the land, language and culture of the indigenous populace from the illegal immigrants; and by aligning with ethnic political outfits to marginalize the discontent of mainstream Assamese.

By indulging in competitive populism, the BJP-led government had targeted all communities, particularly tea workers, with various welfare schemes.

The government had also come up with schemes for the weaker sex, including unmarried women and widows. Unmarried women from poor families get one-time financial assistance of Rs 40,000 during their wedding. Widows belonging to BPL category get a lump sum pension of Rs 300 per month.

HIGHLIGHTS: How the Assam Assembly election results unfolded

Under the Arunodoi Scheme launched last year, financial assistance of Rs 830 per month is given to around 17 lakh families where women, being the primary caretakers of the family, are the beneficiaries. In its election manifesto, the BJP had promised to increase the assistance to Rs 3,000 and the number of beneficiaries to 30 lakh. The BJP had also made admission in government institutions free from the primary level to post-graduation.

Another measure of the partys competitive populism was gifting scooties to girl students who excel in their Class 12 board exams. This election, the party had announced a gift of bullet bikes to boys but did not mention the eligibility criteria.

Without looking at the overall fundamentals of the economy, the BJP had created huge beneficiary schemes for all segments of the society. During electioneering, it also constantly talked about the threat to Assamese civilisation from illegal immigrants after the Congress had aligned with the minority-based All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF), political scientist Akhil Ranjan Dutta of Gauhati University said.

The AIUDF, seen by many in Assam as the protector of illegal immigrants, is a component of the 10-party and Congress-led grand alliance of the Opposition.

ALSO READ: Himanta Biswa Sarma: Man of the Match of the Assam elections

Finance Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma was at the forefront of the campaign against the AIUDF. He tried to scare people into believing that voting for the Congress would mean inviting AIUDF chief and MP Maulana Badruddin Ajmal to Dispur, the states seat of power.

In the lead-up to the polls, Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal had made an appeal to the voters to defeat the Mughals, alluding to the AIUDF. So, the campaign had an impact on the Assamese people, particularly in Upper Assam where a strong sentiment of Assamese sub-nationalism works.

The Assamese are inherently linked to namghars which are Vaishnavite prayer centres. Almost every village has a namghar. As part of its core Hindutva, the BJP-led government had offered Rs 2.5 lakh each to 8,000 namghars across the state for a makeover and evicted alleged illegal immigrants from the Kaziranga National Park and some satras that are institutional centers associated with Vaishnavism.

The BJP could reach every ethnic community both in the hills and the plains. The Bodoland Peoples Front (BPF) was a challenge but the BJP found a competent ally in the United Peoples Party Liberal.

The saffron party retained ethnic political outfits such as Rabha Joutha Mancha and Tiwa Oikko Mancha. The Gana Shakti, floated a few years ago by tribal Mishing leaders, got handicapped after the BJP had managed to bring its top two leaders to its fold.

Six communities, such as Tai-Ahom, Moran, Motok, Chutia, Tea Tribe and Koch-Rajbangshi, have for long been demanding Scheduled Tribe status. The BJP had managed to quell the movement to some extent with its decision to create territorial councils for the Koch-Rajbongshi, Moran and Motok communities. The tea workers were kept in good humour with cash bonanza and a number of welfares schemes.

Over the past five years, the BJP focused on infrastructure development. After capturing power, it first finished the unfinished projects of the previous Congress government. Thereafter, it started building roads, including highways, statewide. It is also building three bridges over the Brahmaputra.

Dutta observes that parties retaining power has become a post-economic liberalization phenomenon.

If you look at post-economic liberalization from 2002, any government coming to power in any state is having at least two terms in power. It is due to competitive populism. It happened to the Tarun Gogoi government, Nitish Kumar government, Naveen Patnaik government, Narendra Modi government, AIADMK government, Dutta said.
By PTI

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court has directed the Centre to revisit its COVID-19 vaccine pricing policy, saying it would prima facie result in a detriment to the right to public health.

A bench headed by Justice D Y Chandrachud said as of date, the manufacturers have suggested two different prices, a lower price which is applicable to the Centre and a higher price which is applicable to the quantities purchased by state governments.

The apex court said that compelling state governments to negotiate with manufacturers on grounds of promoting competition and making it attractive for new vaccine manufacturers will result in a serious detriment to those in the age group of 18 to 44 years, who will be vaccinated by state governments.

ALSO READ: India records 3,68,147 new COVID-19 cases and 3,417 fatalities in single day

The social strata of this age group also comprises persons who are Bahujans or belong to other underprivileged and marginalised groups, like many in the other population age groups.

They may not have the ability to pay.

"Whether or not essential vaccines will be made available to them will depend upon the decision of each state government, based on its own finances, on whether or not the vaccine should be made available free or should be subsidised and if so, to what extent. This will create disparity across the nation. The vaccinations being provided to citizens constitute a valuable public good," the bench said.

ALSO READ: Vaccine policy against right to health, Supreme Court tells Centre

The bench, also comprising Justices L Nageswara Rao and Ravindra Bhat said, discrimination cannot be made between different classes of citizens who are similarly circumstanced on the ground that while the Central government will carry the burden of providing free vaccines for the 45 years and above population, state governments will discharge the responsibility of the 18 to 44 age group on such commercial terms as they may negotiate.

"Prima facie, the rational method of proceeding in a manner consistent with the right to life (which includes the right to health) under Article 21 would be for the Central Government to procure all vaccines and to negotiate the price with vaccine manufacturers," the court said.

The apex court said that once quantities are allocated by it to each state government, the latter would lift the allocated quantities and carry out the distribution.

ALSO READ: COVID vaccine shortage hits 18-45 age group in Chennai

"While we are not passing a conclusive determination on the constitutionality of the current policy, the manner in which the current policy has been framed would prima facie result in a detriment to the right to public health which is an integral element of Article 21 of the Constitution.

"Therefore, we believe that the Central Government should consider revisiting its current vaccine policy to ensure that it withstands the scrutiny of Articles 14 (equality before law) and Article 21 (Protection of life and personal liberty)of the Constitution," it said.

At present, the two coronavirus vaccines -- Covishield and Covaxin-- are in use.

The directions were passed in a suo motu case for ensuring essential supplies and services during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The bench has taken up issues such as the projected demand for oxygen in the country at present and in the near future, how the government intends to allocate it to "critically affected" states and its monitoring mechanism to ensure supply.

The Supreme Court had earlier made clear that any attempt to clamp down on the free flow of information on social media, including a call for help from people, would be treated as contempt of the court.
By PTI

MUMBAI: The Shiv Sena on Monday said the West Bengal election results have proved that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah are not invincible.

An editorial in the Sena mouthpiece 'Saamana' said out of four states (West Bengal, Assam, Tamil Nadu and Kerala) and a Union Territory (Puducherry) which recently went to polls, all eyes were on West Bengal.

"Instead of tackling the raging COVID-19 pandemic, the entire central government, including Prime Minister Modi, was in the poll arena of West Bengal to defeat (Chief Minister) Mamata Banerjee," it said.

On Sunday, Banerjee fended off a spirited challenge by a resurgent BJP in West Bengal with a landslide victory for her Trinamool Congress (TMC) party for a third consecutive term.

"The results have proved that despite having all the machinery and technology at their disposal, Modi-Shah are not invincible," the Marathi daily said.

The Shiv Sena, which shares power in Maharashtra with the NCP and Congress, did not contest the West Bengal polls, but extended its support to Banerjee.

West Bengal had to go through eight phases of voting, the editorial noted, and claimed the BJP used money, power andgovernment machinery to defeat Mamata Banerjee.

"The BJP lost and the corona won. This is a one-line analysis of the Bengal poll results," the editorial said.

With the single aim to win West Bengal, Modi and Shah entered the poll fray, held massive rallies and roadshows, violating all COVID-19 safety rules, it alleged.

It said the Madras High Court has blamed the Election Commission for the spread of COVID-19 due to the long-drawn campaign in the states where polls were recently held, especially West Bengal.

The Sena asked who will take the responsibility of the BJP's performance in the polls.

Except for Assam and Puducherry, the BJP has not done well (in other states which went to polls), it said.

"The people of West Bengal need to be complimented for not falling prey to an artificial wave and for unitedly standing up for their own prestige. The country should learn from Bengal," the editorial said.
By PTI

NEW DELHI: BJP president JP Nadda will be on a two-day visit to West Bengal starting from Tuesday to hold a protest against the alleged atrocities on party workers in the state by the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) government.

He will meet the BJP workers and their families affected by the violence and will hold protests in a democratic manner.

"BJP president JP Nadda will be on a two-day visit to West Bengal starting from Tuesday, May 4 to take stock of the violence under the patronage of the TMC," BJP said in a release.

"Within 24 hours of election results, many BJP workers have been murdered. Many workers are seriously injured. The house and shops of many party workers have also been burnt. After Mamata Banerjee's defeat and Trinamool Congress' victory in the election results yesterday, the TMC hooligans started celebrating the victory with violence and blood. BJP condemns this," it added.

ALSO READ | Three TMC workers, one BJP supporter killed in post-poll clashes in Bengal's Purba Bardhaman

The BJP sources said the party will also hold a nationwide dharna on May 5 against the widespread violence unleashed by TMC workers post declaration of the West Bengal Assembly Elections results. The protest will be held following all COVID protocols across all organisational mandals of the BJP.

Meanwhile, BJP office and some shops in Ghoshpara road of Bhatpara were allegedly vandalised by miscreants and at least 13 crude bombs were hurled in the area on Monday.

The shopkeepers alleged that TMC was behind the attack as the area is known to be of BJP supporters.

However, local TMC leader denied the allegations and said BJP's insiders were behind the incident.

BJP National General Secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya said that BJP offices were vanadalised in Howrah.

ALSO WATCH:

"TMC goons and workers have vandalised BJP offices in Howrah. The goods have been stolen from there. BJP workers are being beaten into their homes," tweeted Kailash Vijayvargiya in Hindi.

"After Mamata ji's victory, her workers are celebrating and vandalising the houses of BJP workers. More than nine BJP workers have been killed so far," he said.

Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress won 213 seats in the just concluded West Bengal assembly elections. The Bharatiya Janata Party garnered 77 seats in the 294-seat state assembly. However, elections for two seats in Murshidabad are postponed due to the demise of candidates due to COVID.
The new admissions cap will reinforce efforts that are already underway to expand the United States capacity to admit refugees, so that we can reach the goal of 125,000 refugee admissions that I intend to set for the coming fiscal year, he said. It is important to take this action today to remove any lingering doubt in the minds of refugees around the world who have suffered so much, and who are anxiously waiting for their new lives to begin.
Shikha Mukerjee By

The four states and one Union Territory where elections were held delivered decisions that represent a sovereign people making a choice that reflects what passes for sovereign will in an imperfect electoral democracy. These elections were more than which party will win by what margin.

They were a contest between democracy as competitive politics and politics as a war of conquest. The brutal ambition of one party-one nation, crudely promised as a vision for a new India, dominated the elections and played out in its fullest, ugliest form in West Bengal.

It was the battleground state and a new territory the BJP set out to conquer. It was a clash between diversity, political, social, religious and individual, and constricting homogeneity of a single party in control over the centre and the periphery regardless of its competence.

Never before in the history of Indias elections has the prime minister or the Union home minister spent as many days campaigning in one state as Narendra Modi and Amit Shah did in West Bengal. They pulled out all the stops to fight against the Trinamool Congress and two-time Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, pushing responsibility for management of the spiralling public health crisis aside.

The out-of-control surge in the number of COVID-19 cases, over four lakh infections daily, turned the crisis into a catastrophe. As the disaster of acute shortages of oxygen, hospital beds and life-saving medicines unfolded, the BJP remained focused on campaigning in West Bengal. Throughout the gruelling campaign, the BJP ignored the pandemic as an ongoing crisis. It claimed that it had won the war against the virus.

The priorities of the government it would lead in West Bengal were identifying illegal Muslim migrants and ejecting them from the state, extending citizenship to all Hindu refugees regardless of whether they already possessed documents certifying them as citizens, enforcing Jai Shri Ram as the signature chant, banning cow slaughter, ensuring freedom to celebrate Durga Puja and Saraswati Puja on the false assumption that the festival had been forcibly restricted, unearthing corruption and delivering development.

Undeterred by its organisational weakness, its unfamiliarity with the complicated geography of India's third most populous state, the scarcity of well-recognised and rooted leaders and contestants, the BJP believed that it could conquer West Bengal and demolish the ethos of a border state that had for over 70 years resisted communally divisive identity politics by foregrounding ideology of Liberals versus Marxists as the difference and the choice.

The TMC won because its politics is inclusive. The BJP lost because its politics excludes and divides a population that has lived in a state of social and communal equilibrium for over 70 years.

By emphasising that Mamatas policies for Muslims was appeasement that would convert even her constituency of Nandigram into a "mini Pakistan", the BJP constructed a new narrative designed to polarise on the one hand and consolidate the nervous Hindu voter on the other. The glue has not worked to deliver the target of 200 seats that the party aimed for.

The BJP narrative of a West Bengal that will soon be overrun by Muslims reducing the Hindus to a minority is not new.

This was the line it spun in 1989 when it targeted the Congress and the CPM-led Left Front for Muslim appeasement and making citizens out of illegal immigrants from across the border. By 2014, the BJP had become more ambitious and believed it had leaders who could convert the anxiety already sown into a political advantage that would rapidly catapult it to power in West Bengal.

In 2019, it seemed the goal was achievable in 2021. The BJP posed a formidable challenge to all the political parties in West Bengal, including TMC, by winning 18 parliamentary seats, 40% plus of the votes that translated into leads in 121 Assembly segments.

It failed in 2021 because it was in too much of a hurry to go through the grind of building its base, nurturing voters by working for specific issues, because the average voter who chooses mostly the middle ground rejected its extremely polarising politics.

Without the organisational apparatus, by excluding the Muslim voters comprising 27 per cent of the population, arrogant in its supposition that an acquisition spree from other parties, particularly the TMC, would give it the spread it needed, the BJP overreached.

It seriously miscalculated and its tally proves this. The BJP, even though pundits declared it has a superb war room, failed to attract two segments of the population that have proved loyal to Mamata, namely women and younger voters.

Its campaign was targeted at both segments, but clearly what the BJP offered did not cut ice with the voter. The CPM in this election fielded the young and more women than it has in the past. That did not work either. For both these segments of voters, Mamata remains the best bet.

As a bhoomikanya, or daughter of the soil, Mamata had a far better idea of the pulse of the people, the culture of the place; she used local knowledge to brand the BJP as intruders and make it stick as a slur.

The task before her now is not only to manage the pandemic surge and protect people from the deadly virus, but also to deal with the dangerous communal polarising politics that has now been installed as the elected opposition in West Bengal.

The burden of dealing with the BJP and the volatility it can trigger does not rest on the TMC alone. The Left and the Congress, however decimated, have some responsibility in containing the BJP's politics of division in West Bengal.

The original consensus that set up the communal equilibrium was forged by the Congress, the Left and parties that have died away. Co-opting the non-BJP parties to contain and constrict the saffron party would be Mamatas best bet; will she create the space for a non-BJP opposition to be active?

(The writer is a political commentator and senior journalist and can be reached at s_mukerjee@yahoo.com)
KR Meera By

The verdict in the Kerala polls is one of the strongest statements ever made by the electorate in the statethat manipulation in the name of religion, belief and customs does not work anymore and that it is high time we start talking real politics.

I consider this result a strong message to the repressive right-wing forces that have been using false narratives to create public sentiment favourable to them. As has happened many times in the history of our country, the common people have risen in unison to assert that they will never settle for anything less than a responsible and accountable government.

In my view, the voters rejected the BJP because of its neglect of democratic ideals and what has cost the Congress-led UDF was its lack of a clear action plan other than a blind imitation of the BJP's style. It was suicidal for the Congress to project Sabarimala women entry as an issue when people are facing a pandemic and concerned about their daily bread.

Who would have imagined that a party like Congress with leaders like Rahul Gandhi and Shashi Tharoor would compete with the BJP to make use of the Sabarimala issue, even promising a legislation that calls for imprisonment of anyone who breaks the religious customs?

With the verdict, it is now clear that voters in the state have rejected such a retrograde step with the contempt that it deserves.

The LDF government in the past five years has certainly redefined the concept of governance. Rejecting many of the conventional ways, the government has tried to touch the lives of people through positive steps.

The response of the people in this election and the confidence they have now thrust on the government and Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan speak volumes about how that style has clicked. Another major change I have noticed is that the Pinarayi government could demonstrate that electoral victory is different from governance.

For example, if building a bridge was considered a development scheme in the olden days, this government has proved that it won't be complete without the rejuvenation of the river too.

In 2016, when the Pinarayi government came to power, all I had looked forward to was an improvement in the education, healthcare, transportation and civil supplies sectors. I am happy to state that the change that has been brought to the education and healthcare sector has been impressive.

The civil supplies chain worked as the lifeline of Kerala when challenges such as floods and COVID-19 rocked us. The government also tried to be transparent about all these projects and welcomed audit. People seem to have acknowledged that.

It is not that there were no serious lapses committed by the outgoing government. We were definitely disappointed with the policing. There were several issues like custodial deaths and Maoist encounters that an LDF government shouldn't have allowed. The decision to institute 10% economic reservation to the forward communities was atrocious.

But when we see the utter disregard for democracy from our rulers in New Delhi, we have no other way than to support whatever progressive politics is left with the Left government. After coming to power for the second time, the Modi government is usurping even the legitimate rights of the state.

There are several atrocious steps that go unchallenged like the drastic sale of public sector units. There are wider ramifications for such moves including the sabotage of legal reservation for weaker sections that private players wont be willing to give.

On Sunday, when counting was taking place in four states and a Union Territory, the farmer protest in New Delhi completed 158 days. Friends there say 424 farmers had lost their lives so far. Such a massive protest doesnt even get minimum news space in our media.

How can a government remain so insensitive to its citizens, the poor farmers dying like that? The Centres disregard for federalism is also a reason for the electorate to choose a strong local government.

As Pinarayi is set to assume another term amidst the raging second wave of COVID-19, his major challenge will be dealing with the collapsing federalism in our country and finding new resources for the development plans of the state.

I wish the new government will withdraw its regressive economic reservation policy immediately and prioritise empowering the Dalits and Adivasis. I also hope that the government will review its policing policy and carve a police force with a more humane face.

The marginalised communities who had been left out when excess land was distributed during the first land reforms scheme need to be given their share and the government should launch a second land reforms movement in a foolproof manner.

Let's hope that the second Pinarayi government will script its name in history through a set of imaginative, humanitarian and green initiatives.

(The writer is an award-winning author in Malayalam and can be reached on Twitter: @krmeera1)
The world will probably remember this batch of Indian Assembly elections for a long time, but because of strictly non-political reasons. A set of elections fought, conducted and won and lost at a great, irretrievable and yet avoidable cost. Human lives. Not just those lost in the usual political violence, but very many more uncountable ones, on an ongoing basis, even as you read this.

And yet there were victories. The most stunning of them being Mamata Banerjees third consecutive victory in West Bengal. A near-sweep, with some 215 seats. Won against all odds, with one foot in a plaster, and with an entire army-like invasive formation trying to cut her down from all flanks.

Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Assam were not short of drama by any means, and more than enough anger and attrition was witnessed everywhere, but the day belonged to Mamata.

The BJP had put all its might, all its megaphones, all its resources and all its strategies into realising its long-held dream of creating an opening for itself in what was hitherto practically terra incognita. Their campaign was nothing short of a high-powered juggernaut, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi perorating from the pulpit, making sure each nasally intoned taunt hit home.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah did not let up even after the other parties had called off rallies because of the pandemic - a prolonged, multi-phase election allowed enough scope for his micropolitical management skills to be fully unfurled too.

And yet, the BJP scored a mere 75 well below 100, as predicted by Mamata's poll strategist Prashant Kishor - and that number has to be seen not only against the TMC's 215 but the whole frenzied hullabaloo that had pockmarked the pre-poll phase.

This was actually the only true contest. The story in the other states went more or less according to script. Tamil Nadu saw its first elections shorn of the star power of Karunanidhi and Jayalalithaa. The result was not surprising - the DMK scion, MK Stalin, won a resounding victory for his alliance.

The AIADMK, despite its friends in New Delhi, was weighed down by its own internal troubles. So despite the fact that his chief ministerial office could not have been faulted for how the COVID situation was handled, Edappadi K Palaniswami, who even Tamil Nadu likes to call EPS in a hurry, had to succumb because the oppositional pulls were coming from within his own fractured party.

Talking of pandemic management, if anyone has truly triumphed with his governance, it's Keralas Pinarayi Vijayan. Its not for nothing that he managed to buck the traditional pendulum swing that the state abides by almost as a habit.

If he took the LDF to a historic second-term win, it was on the back of some serious efforts to control the spread of a pandemic - efforts that had won his Health Minister KK Shailaja plaudits from around the world.

The Congress-led UDFs cussed bid to make a dent there went awry, despite high-profile visitations - Rahul Gandhi has hopefully learned a few lessons about deep-sea fishing. The BJP had only long-term plans for Kerala, but the fissures that have been introduced into its polity will likely endure, despite the partys well-rounded score of zero.

Assam had its own story of animosities aroused and blood spilt, but the BJP held its own despite a very determined bid by the Congress to unseat it on the back of the CAA-NRC controversy, among other things. And everybody knew which way Puducherry was going the AINRC-BJP alliance triumphed over the Congress.

That game was almost played to the finish before elections, with defections and such like. In one sense, if there is a real loser in this election, it is the Congress. It could not wrench back Assam from the BJP, nor Kerala from the Left, lost Puducherry, and drew a blank in Bengal.

It's another matter that most people in the 'secular' camp would read that tally in Bengal with a sense of relief. Even more than the Congress, which seems to have lost its mojo, one can only witness with sadness the plight of the Election Commission.

It appears not only to have lost its heft, the sense of impartiality that won it world renown just a couple of decades ago, but the Madras High Court obiter dicta against it pretty much accusing it of murder - shall remain the leitmotif of an election conducted during a pandemic.


By Express News Service

KOLLAM: R Balakrishna Pillai, founder of Kerala Congress (B) and former minister, died at the age of 86. He breathed his last at a hospital in Kottarakkara on Monday morning.

He was admitted to a private hospital in Kottarakkara last Wednesday following breathing difficulties.

He passed away a day after his son and former minister KB Ganesh Kumar won the assembly polls from Pathanapuram constituency.



Pillai was one of the founding leaders of the Kerala Congress and the first General Secretary of the party. He has been in charge of the Excise, Transport and Electricity Departments.

He had been holding the office of Chairman, Kerala State Welfare Corporation for Forward Communities. He is also the Chairman of Kerala Congress (B).

Balakrishna Pillai was born on March 8, 1935 in Valakom, Kottarakkara to Raman Pillai and Karthiyaniyamma. He became an active politician through Congress.

He then joined the Kerala Congress and from there formed his own party. He was active in politics as well as social work.

He was the NSS union president of Pathanapuram taluk for more than six decades. He has also served on the NSS Board of Directors.

Balakrishnan's wife Valsalakumari passed away in 2018. Children: KB Ganesh Kumar MLA, Usha and Bindu. Son-in-law: Former Central Shipping Secretary K Mohandas, former Additional Chief Secretary TK Balakrishnan and Bindu Menon.
By Express News Service

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Health Minister KK Shailaja, who became the face of Kerala in the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic, has come up victorious in yet another battle  this time political.

While her victory from Mattannur assembly constituency in Kannur came as no surprise, the record victory margin of over 61,000 votes showed that the extra votes came as a recognition of her performance as a minister.

The political journey of the 64-year-old former physics teacher from Kannur, who made her assembly debut 25 years ago, has been phenomenal in the last five years when the world took a closer look at the unassuming health minister of Kerala.

WATCH:

The public health crisis brought the best out of her  first in tackling the Nipah virus outbreak in 2018 and Covid-19 two years later. Both novel crises have tested the public health system and Shailaja has been credited rightly for her leadership.

If there was one minister in the Pinarayi Vijayan government who was seen tackling the challenges head on, it was Shailaja. She is credited for her foresight in preparing the state and her ability to communicate the decisions to the public.

It was she who started the daily briefing when the first case of Covid-19 was reported in the country, in Thrissur, last year. Her matter-of-fact action plans were keenly observed and readily followed by the public.

She was the star campaigner in the Break the Chain campaign initiated by the government to contain the pandemic.

In the initial months of the first wave of the pandemic, the success in the state located in the southern tip of the Indian subcontinent in flattening the curve in less than 100 days after the first case was reported widely. Restricting the number of deaths due to the pandemic gained her world-wide attention.

Though Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan took over the mantle in crisis management later, the health minister continued to represent the state in international meets on Covid-19 and received accolades for her leadership.

The international media gave her fancy titles such as Coronavirus Slayer and Rock star health minister, much to the discomfort of the Opposition parties.

She was nice to snide remarks made by them in her characteristic style. Congress state president Mullappally Ramachandran was one of the beneficiaries of her cool approach when he made personal attacks.

But such niceties were not reserved for IUML leader K M Shaji who faced an angry retort from her in the legislative assembly. He was cut to a sorry figure for questioning the leadership abilities of a woman chief minister (Mamata Banerjee in West Bengal) during a debate on the Citizenship (Amendment) Act.

Her new-found stature raised expectations of her replacing Pinarayi as the chief minister. But she always had a readymade answer to quell such possibilities. Nevertheless, her victory has brought cheer among the medical community.

It gives a lot of comfort to know that the plans against the pandemic will continue (under her leadership) in the way we are familiar with, said a senior doctor.

ALSO WATCH:
Omjasvin MD By

Express News Service

CHENNAI: The DMK delivered a rude shock to the AIADMK by sweeping all the seats in Chennai, besides performing well in the suburbs too.

Interestingly, the DMK has regained several constituencies from the AIADMK after 20 years such as Mylapore, Royapuram and RK Nagar, all with first-time candidates who took on heavyweights.

In these constituencies, the DMK which was not seen to have a chance performed commendably and even led with a huge margin of more than 20,000 in the last leg of counting.

Several factors which worked here are the candidate chosen by the DMK and some civic and social issues, which the party capitalized on.

Here, the DMK previously did not have a strong consolidation of non-Brahmin voters as many smaller alliance partners either stood alone or were with a different alliance.

This time, the DMKs secular alliance also managed to consolidate block votes, and also the candidate Mylai T Velu capitalized on the local issues and defeated the incumbent MLA Natraj.

In Mylapore, issues pertaining to fishermen and Marina vendors due to beautification were at the forefront. The DMK candidate participated in their protests when the sitting MLA ignored the issue, which resulted in strengthening the partys non-Brahmin vote bank.

Apart from this, the DMK also managed to consolidate the Muslim, Christian, and OBC votes in the constituency.

Speaking to The New Indian Express, Mylapores DMK MLA candidate Mylai Velu said that he had worked in the constituency for 20 years.

I have been hearing peoples problems and have been voicing in support for them. Especially, the fishermen in Santhome. They received us well, he said, adding that he would ensure building housing tenements for the fishermen there itself, without vacating them to elsewhere.

He said that he would make the Mylapore constituency a spiritual hub by renovating smaller temples with MLA funds. This place is known for its spirituality and our leader has announced Rs 1000 crore for temple renovation. We will use it for Kapaleeswarar temple, he said.

He also promised to get youngsters jobs and build hospitals accessible for fishermen.

Similarly, in Royapuram, where the DMK party was founded in 1949, a new-entrant iDream R Murthy, defeated Minister and five-time MLA D Jayakumar by a huge margin of more than 10,000 votes.

In fact, Stalin had challenged Jayakumar that he would be defeated by a new candidate.

Anti-CAA protests coupled with fishermen issues proved to be a nemesis for the ex-Minister as well.

The DMK also put a stellar performance in constituencies like Thiruvottiyur, Saidapet, Thiruvika Nagar with big wins.

At RK Nagar, which is an AIADMK stronghold, a fresh entrant, J J Ebenezer, defeated the AIADMK's RS Raajesh.

I was given the seat because I served the constituency in various posts for the past 24 years. That way, I had a good connection with the people and got full support from the youngsters, DMKs RK Nagar candidate J J Ebenezer told The New Indian Express.

He said that he would work to implement his promises on ensuring a 24/7 metro water supply, garbage clearance, sanitation, and jobs for youth.

DMKs Youth Wing Secretary Udhayanidhi Stalin won with a massive mandate of more than 50,000 votes, while Chief Minister-elect Stalin won from Kolathur.

The ripple effects of Chennais voting patterns were observed in nearby districts like Chengalpet, Kancheepuram, and Tiruvallur, as well.

Out of the total 41 seats including the ones in neighboring districts such as Poonamalle, Pallavaram, Avadi, and Tambaram, the party won 39 seats.

With this commendable victory, Chennai and its districts come as a feather in the cap for DMK.
By Express News Service

CHENNAI: While the DMK has won 125 seats in the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, the party's official strength stands at 133, including eight MLAs from allies who contested on the 'rising sun' symbol. The last time the DMK captured power with full majority was in 1996.



The AIADMK won 66 seats out of the 179 it contested. Its allies PMK and BJP won five and four seats respectively, revealed the election commissions official data.



The BJP will have MLAs in the state assembly after two decades. The party won the Tirunelveli, Nagercoil, Modakurichi and Coimbatore South Assembly constituencies.

ALSO READ: TN Election Results: MK Stalin seals Tamil Nadu win, to be state's oldest first-time Chief Minister

The Congress emerged victorious in 18 seats of 25. The party also won the Kanniyakumari Lok Sabha byelections. While the VCK won four seats, two Left parties CPM and CPI secured two seats each in the DMK alliance.

The new assembly has MLAs from more than ten political parties  DMK, AIADMK, Congress, BJP, PMK, VCK, CPM, CPI, MDMK, TVK, KDMK and MMK.



Eight MLAs -- MDMK (4), TVK (1), KDMK (1) and MMK (2) -- will be considered DMK MLAs in the Assembly.
By Express News Service

CHENNAI: The Tamil Nadu government, late Monday night, announced new restrictions to control the spread of the coronavirus as the second wave of the pandemic tests the State's healthcare infrastructure.

As per the new restrictions, in effect from 4 A.M. on May 6 (Thursday) to 4 A.M. on May 20, government and private offices will only be allowed to function with 50 per cent of their employees at a time and grocery and vegetable shops will be allowed to function only till 12 noon.

The new curbs are in addition to the restrictions already in place, including a night curfew and full shutdown on Sunday, as the test positivity rate in the State exceeds 10 per cent.

According to a statement issued by the State government, as part of the new curbs, all public transport facilities (bus, train, autos, etc) may only ferry passengers to 50 per cent of their capacity.

While the government had already barred the operation of malls, shopping complexes or any retail shop over 3,000 sq ft from April 26, it has now also ordered the closure of all shops, except for standalone stores selling groceries, medicines, dairy products and other essentials.

However, grocery and provision stores may only be open till noon, at only 50 per cent capacity.

Hotels, restaurants and messes may only provide takeaway services. However, tea shops may only function till 12 P.M. On Sundays food delivery is permitted only between 6-10 A.M, 12-3 P.M., and 6-9 P.M.

Meat and fish shops will remain closed on Saturday and Sunday. On other days, they may only function from 6 A.M. to 12 P.M.

Spas and salons, already barred from operating in cities, will not be allowed to function throughout the State.

All public gatherings, except for weddings and funerals, are barred, including educational, political and cultural events.

Movie theatres too will not be allowed to function. There are no restrictions on operation of petrol bunks or medical services through the week.

Continuous process industries and industries manufacturing essential commodities will be allowed to function.

No more than 50 people may be allowed to attend weddings while no more than 20 are allowed to attend funerals, funeral processions or participate in last rights.

Weddings may not be conducted on Sundays when the full lockdown is in place. On Sundays, food delivery is only permitted between 6-10 A.M., 12-3 P.M. and 6- 9 P.M.

However, e-commerce companies, aside from those providing food delivery services, cannot operate on Sundays.
S Kumaresan By

Express News Service

CHENNAI: Newly-elected DMK MLAs are scheduled to meet on Tuesday. In a press statement, DMK general secretary Duraimurugan stated that the meeting will be held at Anna Arivalayam, the party headquarters on Tuesday at 6 PM.

The MLAs will formally elect DMK chief MK Stalin as leader of the party to assume the chief minister's position.

Following this, the letter for elected as CM by the party MLAs will be formally handed over to Tamil Nadu Banwarilal Purohit.

Sources in the party have informed that the oath-taking ceremony for the new cabinet is likely to take place on May 7 at Raj Bhavan without any fanfare and crowd.
R Sivakumar By

Express News Service

VELLORE: The euphoria over the much trumpeted 10.5 per cent internal reservation in MBC quota for Vanniyars seems to have dissipated, as it failed to yield the desired results in the polls.

Though it seems to have worked in favour of AIADMK and PMK in Salem region, it has miserably failed in northern districts of Villupuram, Cuddalore, Vellore and Tiruvannamalai.

ALSO READ: Clever selection, timely response work wonders for DMK in Chennai

Star Vanniyar leaders, including CV Shanmugam (Minister for Law), could not win despite the projections that Vanniyar votes would get consolidated owing to the AIADMK-PMK alliance.

The outcome shows that the quota has not paid the results PMK founder S Ramadass promised. Just as it created a strong sentiment in the Vanniyar belt, it also gave rise to strong counter-response, says Dr Ramu Manivannan, Department of Politics and Public Administration, University of Madras.

ALSO READ: Good harvest for DMK in Delta region

The campaign against the separate quota was as much vigorous as the one in favour. The negative opinion has turned out to be more effective, Manivannan adds.

In Vellore, consolidation of Vanniyar votes has belied expectations. AP Nandakumar of DMK, belonging to the Naidu community, won from the Vanniyar dominated Anaicut Assembly segment by defeating AIADMK district (rural) secretary D Velazhagan, who belongs to Vanniyar community.

ALSO READ: AIADMK wither in southern region

Another Naidu community leader of the DMK, R Gandhi, has been re-elected to the Assembly from Ranipet, while PMKs AM Krishnan failed to cross the pole in Vanniyar-dominated Sholingur.

His party had managed to secure about 50,000 votes in the previous polls, analysts point out. In Kilpennathur segment in Tiruvannamalai, the quota failed to help the PMK candidate, who was trumped by DMKs sitting MLA Ku Pitchandi, belonging to Naidu community.

ALSO READ: AIADMK wrests Kongu region

Consolidation of Dalit votes in northern districts is also said to have worked against the AIADMK-PMK alliance.

Vanniyar votes, however, apparently consolidated in Salem region, where the AIADMK-PMK alliance put up a better performance, unlike northern districts where reverse polarisation has taken place, observes political analyst Ravindran Duraisamy.

All is not well

The appeal of EPS and Ramadass has gone down well in favour of the alliance in Salem and neighbouring districts, said a political analyst. As the counting draws to a close, it seems the PMKs failed to make an impact in the 23 seats it contested.
In 2009, Monserrate was found guilty of misdemeanor assault in an incident with his then-girlfriend. After being expelled from the state Senate, he pleaded guilty to federal charges related to misappropriating about $100,000 in funds earmarked for a local nonprofit. He was sent to prison for two years and ordered to repay the funds.
S Kumaresan By

Express News Service

CHENNAI: It was a well-fought battle, defying predictions of a "clean sweep," springing quite a few surprises in the process.

Out of power for a decade, the DMK finally managed to dethrone its Dravidian rival by a comfortable margin.

MK Stalin, who has been waiting in the sidelines for the last several years, is all set to be sworn-in as the eighth Chief Minister of the State.

At 68, he would be the oldest first-time CM of Tamil Nadu. This is the first time in 25 years that the DMK has secured a majority on its own.

For AIADMK, the defeat was not as bad as predicted, with the party winning in enough seats to be the strongest AIADMK Opposition in the history of the State Assembly, indicating that the anti-incumbency factor was not as intense as expected.

The biggest takeaway, however is that Tamil Nadu has, once again, decisively, shut the doors on the so-called "Third Front.

ALSO READ: 'Congratulations... We shall work together': PM Modi, top leaders wish DMK and Stalin

Self-proclaimed centrist Kamal Haasan's Makkal Needhi Maiam scored a duck, with the actor himself narrowly losing the race. Instead, Seeman's Naam Tamizhar Katchi, often overlooked, took the third place.

The BJP put up a poor show compared to its national rival Congress, which won 16 out of the 25 seats in which it contested. The Congress was also in line to win the bypoll to the Kanniyakumari Lok Sabha seat.

On the other hand, the saffron party only won four of the 20 Assembly seats from which it fought. Still, its MLAs will be entering the State Assembly for the first time in two decades.

ALSO READ: TN Election Results: These are the regions that helped DMK seal their victory

"This is a vote for change," said veteran journalist G Kubendran.

"Caste politics has been voted out, as sitting ministers including MC Sampath, CVe Shanmugam and KC Veeramani have lost despite the last-minute internal quota given to Vanniyars."

Sitting CM Edappadi K Palaniswami, however, managed to retain his Kongu belt fort. The same pro-AIADMK sentiment did not resonate in Southern districts, considered to be a bastion of deputy CM O Panneerselvam. Similarly, the capital city of Chennai and its surrounding districts gave a resounding mandate to DMK.

"The election victory is the result of the hardwork put in by Stalin," said another scribe, T Koodalarasan. This election will go down in history for one more reason: it marks the first electoral victory  a thumping one at that  for Stalin's son Udhayanidhi, speculated to be the party's heir apparent.
S Kumaresan By

Express News Service

CHENNAI: The Pressure Cooker lost its steam, the Torch its battery... Basically, Tamil Nadu voters have left no space for a third alternative to emerge in the State. Now, the future of these smaller parties appears, at best, bleak. Facing a near-washout in this elections, it appears that TTV Dhinakaran is no more in a position to challenge the might of the current AIADMK leadership, which put up a good fight against the DMK.

In a sense, the election results were a win-win situation for both Stalin and Palaniswami. While Stalin has proved his mettle by winning the elections, Palaniswami may convince his partymen that the performance was a decent one. But, a lot of small parties have done well. Another aspect of the results was that it adds much diversity to the Assembly house.

The diversity of opinion in the next Tamil Nadu Assembly is expected to increase with seven political parties sending the representative to the new House, some after a gap of 15 years. While CPI, CPM and PMK will be sending representatives to the Assembly after five years, MDMK members (who contested under the DMK symbol) and VCK members will be seen in the House after 15 years.

For the BJP, its goal of the lotus blooming in Tamil Nadu has been realised after two decades. Although the MDMK was launched 27 years ago, its members have only been elected to the House once so far. In 2006, the party won six seats after contesting in 35 constituencies as part of an AIADMK-led alliance. In 2011, it boycotted the Assembly polls after a difference of opinion with the AIADMK over seat allocations.

In 2016, it contested from 29 seats as part of the Peoples Welfare Front, but won none. Now, the party has won four out of the six seats it contested on the DMKs rising sun symbol. However, they will be recorded as DMK members in the Assembly and by the Election Commission. Meanwhile, the Kongunadu Makkal Desiya Katchi will be sending a member to the House for the first time, but its MLA will be considered DMK as the party contested on the DMKs symbol.

As the election results unfold, happiness takes over the virus fear.

The PMK, which looks set to win four out of 23 seats it contested from as part of the AIADMK alliance, will be entering the House after 2011. Similarly, the Left parties, which have won two seats each as part of the DMK alliance, will be representing their views in the Assembly after five years. A significant win is that of Thol Thirumavalan-led VCK, in alliance with the DMK, in four out of six seats. The party was last represented in the House in 2006 when two members were elected as part of an AIADMK alliance.

For the BJP, however, even victory in just four (as of 11.45 pm) of the 20 seats it contested in as part of the AIADMKs alliance gives it the foothold in Tamil Nadu that it has sought since 2001, when it won four seats in an alliance with the DMK. The partys national leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, led a high-voltage campaign in the State and are likely to be pleased with their gains.

TTV Dhinakaran himself lost out the race to Kadambur C Raju of AIADMK in Kovilpatti. While Raju scored 68,556 votes, AMMKs Dhinakaran secured 56153 votes, CPM candidate K Srinivasan earned only 37,380 votes to end up in the third position. Raju emerged successful with a difference of 12,403 votes. Naam Tamilar Katchis Gomathi Mariappan garnered 9,213 votes to end up fourth in the line. The AMMK party largely hoped on the caste based vote bank.

During the counting for round five, Dhinakaran came close making a margin of 19 votes against Raju, which was the Kayathar region, stronghold for the AMMK party. However, Raju managed to increase the margin from thereon. In the run up to the polls, the AMMK cadre had clashes with the AIADMK cadre at many places.

Political analysts said, The AMMK was unsuccessful due to its caste-leaning approach, and that they could not pass the muster. As two heavy weights locked horns against each, the DMKs ally CPM could not score despite Kovilpatti being a labour intensive region, they added. The defeat of AMMK general secretary would demean the political aspirations of the party itself as they had always orchestrated that they are the true AIADMK stock. The party had not won any Assembly seats in the elections, they pointed out.


Omjasvin MD By

Express News Service

CHENNAI: After decades of political work  as a party cadre, MLA, Mayor, and Minister  MK Stalin is now all set to take the reins of the State. The victory on Sunday is an answer to all his critics, who have questioned his leadership skills with regard to electoral politics.

Since the demise of his father, M Karunanidhi, Stalin has managed to win three consecutive elections to the Lok Sabha in 2019, local bodies in 2019, and this Assembly polls. A rare feat as he accomplished all this while being the Opposition leader.

In previous polls, the narrative mostly revolved around towering personalities like MGR, Karunanidhi and J Jayalalithaa. However, this time, both Stalin and Edappadi K Palaniswami needed to move beyond identity politics to score.

Stalin successfully ensured the continuance of the winning 2019 alliance, without much friction. This underlined his leadership abilities, says political analyst Raveendran Duraisamy.

Two, Stalin maintained his hard core anti-Central government stand based on policies and ideology. He did not appear shaky and was firm on his stand which helped him grow in stature, said Duraisamy.

Stalin also proposed many pro-Hindu policies such as pilgrimage allowance, allocations for temple renovation and appointment of non-brahmin priests  without compromising much on his rationalist stand.

He indeed took the Vel in his hands when BJP president L Murugan kick-started a Vel Yatra and subsequently, the narrative of Vel politics was softened.

Stalin also managed to include the Vanniyar community in his scheme of things by roping in Vel Murugan and the son and daughter of late PMK leader Kaduvetti Guru, to tackle Anbumani Ramadoss. The DMKs heightened role in digital space also helped Stalins image push.

We worked on connecting with youth. Our ads focused on criticising the Centres policies related to Tamil Nadu and State issues as well, says a source from IPAC.

Duraisamy meanwhile says that the win gives Stalin more responsibility and space to play a bigger role in national politics.

Karunanidhi was a leader who seized opportunities based on immediate benefits. He may have even opted for an alliance with BJP if the opportunity presented itself. But Stalin has firmly been against casteist PMK and communal BJP, he said.

Stalin also appears firm to take on the Central governments policies affecting the State, noted Duraisamy.

Muted swearing-in event due to COVID threat: MK Stalin

DMK president MK Stalin paid respect to his father and former Chief Minister Karunanidhi at the latters mausoleum in midnight on Sunday, after it became clear that the party was winning in the Assembly elections.

Later, he told reporters, The DMK MLAs meeting will be convened on Tuesday after results for all the Assembly constituencies are declared. In the meeting, the leader for the DMK MLAs will be elected and the date for swearing-in will be decided after consultation with authorities. The swearing-in will take place in a simple function at Raj Bhavan due to prevailing Corona situation.

The DMK president further assured that the DMK would fulfil the poll promises of the party, execute its responsibility and fulfil the expectations of the people of Tamil Nadu.

Wishes pour in for DMK and Stalin

Chennai: Wishes keep pouring in for DMK party president MK Stalin as the party has won the State Assembly elections and is set to return to power after a gap of 10 years. Many leaders, business people and popular personalities took to Twitter to convey their greetings
By Associated Press

A packed boat being used in a suspected human smuggling operation capsized Sunday and broke apart in powerful surf along the rocky San Diego coast, killing three people and injuring more than two dozen others, authorities said.

Lifeguards, the U.S. Coast Guard and other agencies responded around 10:30 a.m. following reports of an overturned vessel in the waves near the rugged peninsula of Point Loma, according to the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department.

The original call was for a handful of people overboard but as rescuers arrived in boats and jet skis they quickly realized it was going to be a bigger situation with more people, said San Diego Lifeguard Services Lt. Rick Romero.

There are people in the water, drowning, getting sucked out the rip current there, he said.

Seven people were pulled from the waves, including three who drowned, said Romero. One person was rescued from a cliff and 22 others managed to make it to shore on their own, he said.

Once we arrived on scene, the boat had basically been broken apart, Romero said. Conditions were pretty rough: 5 to 6 feet of surf, windy, cold.

A total of 27 people were transported to hospitals with a wide variety of injuries including hypothermia, Romero said. Most of the victims were able to walk themselves to ambulances, he said.

Officials said the group was overcrowded on a 40-foot (12-meter) cabin cruiser that is larger than the typical open-top wooden panga-style boats often used by smugglers to bring people illegally into the U.S. from Mexico.

Every indication from our perspective was this was a smuggling vessel. We havent confirmed their nationality, said Jeff Stephenson, a supervising agent with U.S. Border Patrol.

Under a pandemic-related order in effect since March 2020, migrants from Mexico and people from Central American countries of Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras picked up at the border are immediately expelled to Mexico without an opportunity to seek asylum. President Joe Biden has exempted unaccompanied children from expulsions but the vast majority of adults are quickly sent back without facing any consequences.

Border Patrol agents went to hospitals to interview survivors of the capsizing, including the boats captain who Stephenson described as a suspected smuggler. Smugglers typically face federal charges and those being smuggled are usually deported.

San Diego Fire-Rescue Department spokesman Jose Ysea said when he arrived on scene near the Cabrillo National Monument there was a large debris field of splintered wood and other items in the choppy waters.

In that area of Point Loma its very rocky. Its likely the waves just kept pounding the boat, breaking it apart, he said.

There were life preservers on board, but it wasnt known how many or whether any passengers were wearing them, officials said.

Among the rescuers was an unnamed Navy sailor who was in the area with his family and jumped in the water to assist someone in an effort described by Romero as a huge help.

Officials believed everyone on board was accounted for right away, but crews in boats and aircraft continued to search the area for several hours for other possible survivors, Ysea said.

On Thursday, border officials intercepted a panga-type vessel traveling without navigation lights 11 miles (18 kilometers) off the coast of Point Loma with 21 people on board. The crew took all 15 men and six women into custody. Agents determined all were Mexican citizens with no legal status to enter the U.S., according to a statement released by Customs and Border Protection. Two of the people on the boat, the suspected smugglers, will face charges, it said.

Border Patrol on Friday said law enforcement officials would be ramping up operations to disrupt maritime smuggling off the coast of San Diego this weekend.

As warmer weather comes to San Diego, there is a misperception that it will make illegal crossings safer or easier, the agency said in a statement.

In early March, an SUV packed with migrants collided with a tractor-trailer in the farming community of Holtville, California, about 125 miles (200 kilometers) east of San Diego. The crash killed 13 of 25 people inside 1997 Ford Expedition, including the driver, in one of the deadliest border-related crashes in U.S. history.
By PTI

MELBOURNE: Australia's Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Monday defended his government's decision to ban and impose a jail term and a penalty for Australians trying to return from India, saying it is in the country's 'best interests' and to prevent a third wave of infections.

The Australian government, for the first time in history, recently imposed a ban on its citizens from returning home, if they have spent time in India up to 14 days before flying back.

The government threatened to prosecute them with a possibility of five years of jail term or a penalty of 66,000 Australian dollars (USD 50,899).

Morrison said this is a temporary arrangement and a very difficult decision.

"It has been put in place to ensure that we do not get a third wave here in Australia and that our quarantine system can remain strong," he said, adding that it is in the country's 'best interests'.

He said that he feels terribly for the Indian community. ''We've seen a seven-fold increase in the rate of infection of those in our Howard Springs facility coming back from India.

"It's important that we ensure that we have a temporary pause here to strengthen those arrangements in those quarantine facilities, get stronger testing arrangements, both when leaving India but also on people coming from third countries," Morrison said.

He said that he wants to get those repatriation flights running safely again. "These are the things we have to do to ensure I can do that, so I can. We've already brought home some 20,000 people from India through supported flights and facilitated flights, and they were just those who are registered. And so that has been a big effort to get people home,'' the Prime Minister told 2GB radio channel.

"We've had the Biosecurity Act in place now for over a year and no one's gone to jail, there hasn't been any irresponsible use of those powers," he said.

Morrison said that there was clear advice from the chief medical officer that it was a decision that was supported and should be taken.

The Prime Minister was criticised by Opposition leader Anthony Albanese for abandoning Australians in India and threatening the travellers with a penalty and a jail term.

"Australia has obligations to our citizens, to people who are Australians, not just to abandon them overseas but then to threaten them is quite an extraordinary action," Albanese was quoted by media reports here on Sunday.

Deputy Nationals leader Matt Canavan tweeted on Monday about the government's decision stating, "We should be helping Aussies in India return, not jailing them.'' Morrison said that the ban was under a continual review and "this only needs to be there in place for as long as it needs to be there to keep Australians safe.''

Meanwhile, Chief Medical Officer Professor Paul Kelly has said the expert health advice group, the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee, told the government the risk coming from India had reached a 'benchmark of concern'.

On Monday, the daily COVID-19 cases in India showed a slight dip with 3,68,147 new coronavirus infections, taking the total tally of cases to 1,99,25,604, according to the Union Health Ministry.

The death toll increased to 2,18,959 with 3,417 daily new fatalities. While the country recorded 4,01,993 new cases on May 1, it had registered 3,92,488 fresh cases on May 2.
By Express News Service

PARIS: France's secondary and high schools have reopened and a ban on domestic travel has been lifted as part of the government's plan to gradually reopen the country.

The French are now allowed to go further than the 10-kilometre (six-mile) from home limit that has been applied for four weeks in efforts to slow down the spreading of the virus.

A curfew from 7 pm until 6 am is still in place.

Last week, President Emmanuel Macron has presented the key dates of the plan to move out of the country's partial lockdown, as numbers of infections and hospitalisations have started decreasing.

Restaurants and cafes will be able to serve customers outdoors at tables seating a maximum of six people starting May 19, when the nightly curfew will be pushed back to 9 pm.

Nonessential shops also reopen, as well as cultural sites and sport facilities, which will have occupancy limits of 800 people indoors and 1,000 outdoors.

On June 9, tourists from abroad will be allowed to come to France on the condition they are vaccinated or can show a negative test.

The final stage of the plan will see the end of the nighttime curfew and the lifting of most restrictions on June 30.

France has reported almost 105,000 COVID-19 deaths.
By PTI

NEW DELHI: Italy on Monday sent to India a team of experts and medical equipment, while the UK delivered a fourth consignment of aid comprising 60 ventilators to back the country's battle against a deadly second wave of the coronavirus pandemic.

Separately, the European Union announced additional emergency medical support by its member countries including Denmark, Spain and Netherlands to India.

Besides a team of experts, Italy's medical assistance to India comprised an oxygen generation plant and 20 ventilators.

The Italian embassy said the team comprised personnel from the Maxiemergenza group of the Piedmont Region, a doctor from the Lombardy region and a representative of the Ministry of Health.

The oxygen generation plant, capable of supplying oxygen to an entire hospital, will be deployed at the ITBP hospital in Greater Noida, it said.

Ambassador of Italy to India Vincenzo De Luca greeted the medical delegation at the airport along with the EU Ambassador to India Ugo Astuto.

"Italy stands with India in the fight against coronavirus. This is a global challenge that we must tackle together. The medical team and equipment provided by Italy will contribute to saving lives in these terrible moments," De Luca said.

The UK sent 60 ventilators as part of its fourth shipment of supplies to India.

"Fourth consignment of medical supplies containing 60 ventilators arrives from the UK. Thank our strategic partner & friend United Kingdom for the support," External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said in a tweet.

In a statement, the EU said a number of its member nations are sending additional supplies to India under the bloc's Civil Protection Mechanism.

It said Denmark is sending 53 ventilators while Spain is supplying 119 oxygen concentrators and 145 ventilators.

The EU said the medical supplies from the Netherlands included 100 oxygen concentrators, 30,000 vials of antiviral drugs Remdesivir and 449 ventilators.

Fresh supplies from Germany will comprise 15,000 vials of antiviral drugs, 516 ventilators and one oxygen generator, the EU said in a statement.

The EU countries are sending to India medical assistance under the 27-nation grouping's Civil Protection Mechanism.

As part of its Civil Protection Mechanism, the EU plays a central role in coordinating its responses to emergencies in Europe and beyond.

As India battles a devastating second wave of coronavirus pandemic, several countries around the world are sending medical supplies to help it tide over the situation.
By PTI

LONDON: A commitment of USD 15 billion to help women in developing countries access jobs and global targets to get girls into school will be the UK's focus for the G7 Foreign and Development Ministers meeting, which begins in London on Monday.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will arrive for the summit by Monday afternoon local time and is expected to join the discussions with other guest nations invited by the UK, which holds 2021 presidency of the G7 -- which comprises Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, US, UK and the European Union (EU).

Alongside India, Australia, the Republic of Korea, South Africa and the chair of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) have also been invited to the meeting as part of Britain's foreign policy focus on ties with the Indo-Pacific region.

"Ensuring girls get 12 years of quality education and women can work and earn an income are some of the smartest investments we can make to change the world, transforming the fortunes not just of individuals, but whole communities and nations," said UK Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab.

"This year, as we build back better from the pandemic, the UK is putting girls' and women's rights at the heart of our G7 presidency, uniting countries that share our values so we shape a better path ahead," he said.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) said the ministers will agree to invest USD 15 billion in development finance over the next two years to help women in developing countries access jobs, build resilient businesses and respond to the devastating economic impacts of COVID-19.

The funding is aimed at the 2X Challenge, a partnership between G7 Development Finance Institutions [DFIs] launched in 2018.

According to the UK government, it leverages funding from DFIs and Multilateral Development Banks to provide finance to female-owned and staffed businesses or products or services that particularly benefit women, supporting female economic empowerment.

DFIs are funded primarily by national governments and invest in developing countries and emerging markets to create jobs, boost growth, and fight poverty.

The ministers will also sign up for new global targets to get 40 million more girls into school and 20 million more girls reading by the age of 10 in low and lower-middle-income countries by 2026.

"Educating girls is one of the smartest investments we can make to lift people out of poverty, grow economies, save lives, and build back better from COVID-19.

A child whose mother can read is 50 per cent more likely to live beyond the age of five years, twice as likely to attend school themselves  and 50 per cent more likely to be immunised, the FCDO said.

"COVID-19 has had a disproportionate and profound impact on women and girls, including losing precious school time, reduced access to life-saving sexual and reproductive health services, a spike in gender-based violence, and increased risk of job loss.

Now, these fresh commitments by the world's leading democracies, driven by the UK, put gender equality at the heart of global cooperation to build back better from COVID-19," it said.

The targets will be matched by the signing of the Girls' Education Political Declaration on Wednesday, the final day of the summit, by G7 Foreign and Development Ministers, dubbed a bold new statement outlining the financial and policy commitments needed to achieve these aims.

The G7 will also re-commit to collective action to defend and protect sexual and reproductive health and rights for all, scale-up gender-based violence prevention and elimination, and ensure women's voices are included at local, national, and international decision-making in the COVID-19 recovery.
By PTI

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Monday said it has signed agreements to procure about 30 million doses of the coronavirus vaccine from abroad, as the number of COVID-19 cases continued to rise in the country.

Special Assistant on National Health Services Dr Faisal Sultan, addressing the media, said the vaccination drive was progressing smoothly in Pakistan.

He said 19 million doses will be received by June this year and that "we are not relying on donations (from other countries) but 90 per cent of the vaccine doses are being purchased."

Sultan said vaccination of people aged above 40 years has started from Monday.

He said 150,000 vaccine doses were being administered daily, and the official target was to raise it to 300,000 doses per day.

He said 70 million people will be vaccinated against COVID-19 by the end of this year.

The senior official also said that Pakistan will soon start production of the Chinese CanSino vaccine.

Dependence on imported doses will reduce as 3 million doses of the CanSino vaccine will be prepared at the National Institute of Health every month, he said.

The announcement was made as Pakistan for the time recorded less 100 deaths per day since April 25 when 70 people died in the last 24 hours, taking the number of COVID-19 deaths to 18,149, according to the Ministry of National Health Services.

At least 4,213 new cases were reported in this period, pushing the national tally of confirmed cases to 834,146 in the country.

The positivity rate was 9.17 per cent.
By PTI

NEW YORK: COVAX, the global alliance to ensure equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines, urgently needs 20 million doses to cover interruptions in supply triggered by increased demands for jabs in India, which is the main supplier of the AstraZeneca vaccines, the World Health Organisation said on Monday.

Pune-based Serum Institute of India (SII), the world's largest vaccine-maker by volume, is manufacturing Covishield, the coronavirus vaccine developed by Oxford University and British-Swedish pharma major AstraZeneca.

"COVAX urgently needs 20 million doses during the second quarter of 2021 to cover interruptions in supply triggered by increased demands for vaccines in India where COVAX's main supplier of the AstraZeneca product is based," according to a WHO press release.

India is struggling with a second wave of the pandemic with more than 3,00,000 daily new coronavirus cases being reported in the past few days.

According to Indian health ministry data, single day rise of 3,68,147 COVID-19 infections and 3,417 fatalities pushed the country's tally of cases to 1,99,25,604 and death toll to 2,18,959 on Monday.

The global health body in a statement last month had said that as per the agreement between Gavi and the Serum Institute, the Indian vaccine giant will provide Covishield vaccine to COVAX to be distributed to 64 lower-income economies participating in the Gavi COVAX AMC (advance market commitment), alongside its commitments to the Indian government.

The agreement also included funding to support an increase in manufacturing capacity. India is also a participant in the Gavi COVAX AMC initiative.

SII CEO Adar Poonawalla said his firm has orders from the India government to supply 11 crore more doses over the next few months on top of 15 crore already supplied.

With states scrambling to secure vaccines, Poonawalla said his firm cannot ramp up production overnight as vaccine making is a specialised process.

Serum is licensed to manufacture COVID shots from AstraZeneca Plc and Novavax Inc.

SII can produce 6-7 crore doses a month and is reportedly planning to ramp up production to 10 crore by July.

Meanwhile, Sweden on Monday announced to share one million doses of AstraZeneca vaccine with the COVAX facility, a move welcomed by WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

"Sweden's announcement that it will share 1 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines with COVAX is a superb gesture that must be replicated urgently, and repeatedly, by governments around the world to accelerate the equitable rollout of vaccines globally, said Ghebreyesus, who met with Swedish Minister for Development Cooperation Per Olsson Fridh during his visit to WHO headquarters in Geneva.

Ghebreyesus said, "Such support will ensure that people in vulnerable countries, especially, in Africa, will be able to receive their second doses through the COVAX initiative.

Sweden's generous support is very timely as it comes at a time when the world needs it most."

WHO and its partners are advocating for countries to make contributions, like Sweden's, to donate doses from their stocks to boost vaccine supplies to COVAX to deepen vaccination coverage in low income countries and to ensure populations in such places receive needed second doses.

Several other countries have made similar commitments recently, including New Zealand and France.
Yang can also boast of his relationship with U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, his rival in the Democratic presidential race last year. On Monday, Yang said Buttigieg texted him to check in on him last month after he visited the hospital, apparently with a kidney stone.
By PTI

WASHINGTON: The United States is concerned about the COVID-19 variant that has badly hit India, National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan has said as he asserted that the Biden administration is "proud" of its aid efforts so far despite bipartisan criticism of its response.

India is struggling with a second wave of the pandemic with more than 3,00,000 daily new coronavirus cases being reported in the past few days, and hospitals are reeling under a shortage of medical oxygen and beds.

"We are concerned about variants. We're concerned about spread. We're concerned about the loss of life and also all of the secondary effects that emerge as this pandemic rages out of control in India," Sullivan told ABC news in an interview.

Sullivan said that in a crisis of this speed and ferocity "we always wish we could move faster" and do more.

"We are proud of what we've done so far, which has included multiple plane loads - and we're talking very large military plane loads of supplies, including oxygen - including diverting raw materials for vaccines, including therapeutics that can help save lives," Sullivan said, referring to the assistance being provided by the US to India.

"We are continuing to work to source additional critical materials to move them as fast as we can, both directly from the United States and also galvanising partners around the world," he said.

The Biden administration had come under criticism from several quarters, including from members and supporters of the Democratic party, for not releasing surplus COVID-19 vaccines to India when the country is experiencing its worst-ever public health crisis.

President Joe Biden last week spoke with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and pledged to provide oxygen, personal protective equipment and other medical supplies to India.

Dr Ashish Jha, Dean of the Brown University School of Public Health, told ABC News that India is experiencing a horrible outbreak right now.

"We've got to help India get this under control, for a variety of reasons, the humanitarian one, certainly; there are geopolitical issues; but from a pure public health point of view, that large of an outbreak also is fertile ground for more variants," he said.

"There are just many, many reasons why we've got to be very deeply engaged in helping India get this outbreak under control," Dr Jha said responding to a series of questions on India, which is in the grips of a devastating surge in COVID cases.

The main COVID19 variant that has spread in India will not be evading American vaccines yet, he said.

"They don't evade our vaccines yet. Most of the data suggests that our vaccines will hold up.

But, of course, when you have major outbreaks like this, there are the opportunities for more variants," he said.

"Ultimately, what we need to do is we need to get this under control, as I said, purely for humanitarian reasons -- we just don't want tens of thousands of people dying every day.

But, second, that the variants will spread to other parts of the world, including the United States, will leave unvaccinated people in America vulnerable," he said.

"So there's a lot of good reasons for us to be getting this under control," Jha said.

According to Indian health ministry data, single day rise of 3,68,147 COVID-19 infections and 3,417 fatalities pushed the country's tally of cases to 1,99,25,604 and death toll to 2,18,959 on Monday.
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SHERMAN  Despite school activities being limited due to the pandemic, Sherman Schools music program has lost little ground.

Its Band/Chorus and Jazz program is celebrating 36 spots in the Western Regional Festival for sixth, seventh, and eighth grade students who auditioned this year.

Additionally, for the first time in Sherman School history, three students were accepted into the Western Regional Jazz Band.

Student Hannah Rich said she was surprised to be accepted since the band only accepts two drum sets. Student Michael Clancy said he is excited to be accepted since he has tried for three years (and won last year also.) Student Alexander Ostrosky has been lead trumpet for two years, both trumpet and jazz trumpet.

I am so proud of the students hard work this year. We have really benefited as a school community by having so many in-person days of school, and because of that, the music program has been able to continue, Sherman School Band Director Christopher Carlone said.

Since there are no full ensemble rehearsals due to COVID restrictions, students receive private and small group lessons where we are able to focus on audition materials, he said. Students also use instrument-based PPE and increased social distancing in our larger rehearsal space.

Carlone said that throughout the pandemic, students were preparing as a class and would record their auditions and listen to themselves frequently.

That was a great teaching tool for helping them develop a strong audition, he said.

Additionally, this is the first year we have had students make it on flute, which, according to Carlone, is a more competitive instrument for acceptance into the festival.

More Information The students who won the Western Regional Festival are as follows: Sixth grade: Ellie Garcia, Flute Allegra Linero, Flute Eliana Ostrosky, Flute Audrey Wiggins, Flute Lucy Ban, Clarinet Mackenzie Bonner, Clarinet Alyssa Campbell, Clarinet Matthew Tangredi, Alto Saxophone Hale Hurwitz, Tenor Saxophone Nicholas Lobraico, Baritone Saxophone Ella Bocampani, Trumpet, Julian Seda, Trumpet Nate Setzler, Baritone Horn John Berlandi, Trombone Sally Hafer, Trombone Seventh grade: Hadley Diotte, Flute Fiona Ruffler, Flute Marisa Swan, Flute Ava Pietruska, Clarinet Cas Pietruska, Alto Saxophone Avery Peburn, French Horn Hannah Rich, Jazz Drum set and Mallets Emma Mandracchia, Mallets Eighth grade: Isabella Buffa, Flute Isabella DiNatale, Flute Taylor Murray, Flute Hayden Myles, Flute Katie Smith, Clarinet Hannah Gassmann, Soprano and Mallets Michael Clancy, Trombone and Jazz Trombone Alexander Ostrosky, Trumpet and Jazz Trumpet Ethan Cacace, Tuba See More Collapse

Carlone said the school is trying to give students a normal school year in music by allowing them to audition and perform in any way possible.

For example, later in spring, the students will do an outdoor competition where an adjudicator will come to the school and listen to them perform and work with them, Carlone said.

We also plan on marching in the Memorial Day parade if we are able to do it in a safe way, Carlone said. We want to celebrate these students achievements during a tough time for the performing arts anyway we can.

I feel honored to teach in a community that honors music and treats it as an important part of their childrens education, he said.
We must provide support and resources so that our students can make it across the finish line. Joe knows that. He saw it in his classes when he taught law school, and hes heard it from me every single day when I finish teaching my classes, she said.
Champaign, IL (61820)

Today

Light rain...with scattered thunderstorms for the afternoon. High 81F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90%..

Tonight

Mostly cloudy with some showers after midnight. Low 67F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%.
"Throughout this past academic year, our faculty, staff and students have demonstrated a tremendous amount of courage in the face of uncertainty. This is especially true of the more than 700 graduates whose accomplishments we will celebrate during our virtual commencement ceremony."

Lakeland President Morris W. Beverage Jr.

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"I'm not sure, at least in my 20-plus years of being a public servant, that I've seen this much collaboration by a group of people with one common focus - to make our riverfront accessible all the way from Lake County's border to Lake Erie. It's exciting, but it's going to take more than a couple of years before we can start to see it implemented."

Willoughby Mayor Robert Fiala

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Last summer, Global Plasma Solutions wanted to test whether the company's air-purifying devices could kill covid-19 virus particles but could find only a lab using a chamber the size of a shoebox for its trials. In the company-funded study, the virus was blasted with 27,000 ions per cubic centimeter.

In September, the company's founder incidentally mentioned that the devices being offered for sale actually deliver a lot less ion power  13 times less  into a full-sized room.

The company nonetheless used the shoebox results  over 99% viral reduction  in marketing its device heavily to schools as something that could combat covid in classrooms far, far larger than a shoebox.

School officials desperate to calm worried parents bought these devices and others with a flood of federal funds, installing them in more than 2,000 schools across 44 states, a KHN investigation found. They use the same technology  ionization, plasma and dry hydrogen peroxide  that the Lancet COVID-19 Commission recently deemed "often unproven" and potential sources of pollution themselves.

In the frenzy, schools are buying technology that academic air-quality experts warn can lull them into a false sense of security or even potentially harm kids. And schools often overlook the fact that their trusted contractors  typically engineering, HVAC or consulting firms  stand to earn big money from the deals, KHN found.

Academic experts are encouraging schools to pump in more fresh air and use tried-and-true filters, like HEPA, to capture the virus. Yet every ion- or hydroxyl-blasting air purifier sale strengthens a firms next pitch: The device is doing a great job in the neighboring town.

"It's a self-fulfilling prophecy. The more people buy these technologies, the more they get legitimacy," said Jeffrey Siegel, a civil engineering professor at the University of Toronto. "It's really the complete wild west out there."

Marwa Zaatari, a member of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers' (ASHRAE) Epidemic Task Force, first compiled a list of schools and districts using such devices.

Schools have been "bombarded with persistent salespersons peddling the latest air and cleaning technologies, including those with minimal evidence to-date supporting safety and efficacy" according to a report released Thursday by the Center for Green Schools and ASHRAE.

Zaatari said she was particularly concerned that officials in New Jersey are buying thousands of devices made by another company that says they emit ozone, which can exacerbate asthma and harm developing lungs, according to decades of research.

"We're going to live in a world where the air quality in schools is worse after the pandemic, after all of this money," Zaatari said. "It's really sickening."

The sales race is fueled by roughly $193 billion in federal funds allocated to schools for teacher pay and safety upgrades  a giant fund that can be used to buy air cleaners. And Democrats are pushing for $100 billion more that could also be spent on air cleaners.

In April, Global Plasma Solutions said further tests show its devices inactivate covid in the air and on surfaces in larger chambers. The company studies still use about twice the level of ions than its leaders have publicly said the devices can deliver, KHN found.

There is virtually no federal oversight or enforcement of safe air-cleaning technology. Only California bans air cleaners that emit a certain amount of ozone.

U.S. Rep. Robert "Bobby" Scott (D-Va.), chair of the education and labor committee, said the federal government typically is not involved in local decisions of what products to buy, although he hopes for more federal guidance.

In the meantime, "these school systems are dealing with contractors providing all kinds of services," he said, "so you just have to trust them to get the best expert advice on what to do."

These go-between contractors  and the air cleaner companies themselves  have a stake in the sales. While their names might appear in school board records, their role in selling the device or commission from the deal is seldom made public, KHN found.

A LinkedIn job ad with the logo for one air purifier company, ActivePure Technology, which employs former Trump adviser Dr. Deborah Birx as its chief medical and science adviser, recruited salespeople this way: "Make Tons of Money with this COVID-killing Technology!!" The commission, the post said, is up to $900 per device.

"We have reps [who] made over 6-figures in 1 month selling to 1 school district," the ad says. "This could be the biggest opportunity you have seen!"

'A tiny bit of ozone'

Schools in New Jersey have a particularly easy time buying air cleaners called Odorox: A state education agency lists them on their group-purchasing commodity list, with a large unit selling for more than $5,100. Originally used in home restoration and mold remediation, the devices have become popular in New Jersey schools as the company says its products can inactivate covid.

In Newark, administrators welcomed students back to class last month with more than 3,200 Odorox units, purchased with $7.5 million in federal funds, said Steven Morlino, executive director of Facilities Management for Newark Public Schools.

"I think parents feel pretty comfortable that their children are going to a safe environment," he said. "And so did the staff."

Environmental health and air-quality experts, though, are alarmed by the district's plan.

The Pyure company's Odorox devices are on California air-quality regulators' list of "potentially hazardous ozone generators sold as air purifiers" and cannot be sold in the state.

The company's own research shows that its Boss XL3 device pumps out as much as 77 parts per billion of ozone, a level that exceeds limits set by California lawmakers for the sale of indoor air cleaners and the EPA standard for ground-level ozone  a limit set to protect children from the well-documented harm of ozone to developing lungs.

That level exceeds the industry's self-imposed limit by more than 10 times and is "unacceptable," according to William Bahnfleth, an architectural engineering professor at Penn State who studies indoor air quality and leads the ASHRAE Epidemic Task Force.

Jean-Francois JF Huc, CEO of the Pyure company, pointed out that the company's study was done in a space smaller than they would recommend for such a powerful Odorox device. He cautioned that it was done that way to prove that home-restoration workers could be in the room with the device without violating work-safety rules.

"We provide very stringent operating guidelines around the size of room that our different devices should be put in," he said. But school staffers are often not warned about the problems they could face if a too-powerful device is used in a too-small room, he acknowledged.

You can't see or smell ozone, but lungs treat it like a "foreign invader," said Michael Jerrett, who has studied its health effects as director of the UCLA Center for Occupational and Environmental Health.

Lung cells mount an immune-like response, which can trigger asthma complications and divert energy from normal lung function, he said. Chronic exposure has been linked to more emergency room visits and can even cause premature death. Once harmed, Jerrett said, children's lungs may not regain full function.

"Ozone is a very serious public health problem," Jerrett said.

Newark has some of the highest childhood asthma rates in the state, affecting 1 in 4 kids. Scholars have linked outdoor ozone levels in Newark to elevated childhood ER visits and asthma is the leading cause of school absenteeism there.

Adding ozone into the classroom is "just nightmarish," Siegel, of the University of Toronto, said.

Morlino said the district plans to monitor ozone levels in each classroom, based on the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration level for working adults, which is 100 parts per billion.

"In our research of the product," he said, "we've determined it's within the guidelines the federal government produces."

While legal for healthy working adults, the work-safety standard should not apply to developing children, said Michael Kleinman, an air-quality researcher at the UC Irvine School of Medicine. "It's not a good device to be using in the presence of children," he said.

But the devices are going into schools throughout the state that will not be monitoring ozone levels, acknowledged Dave Matisoff, owner of Bio-Shine, a New Jersey-based distributor of Odorox. He said the main safeguard is informing schools about the appropriate-size room each device should be deployed to, a factor in ozone concentration.

Huc, the CEO, said his team has measured levels of ozone that are higher outdoors in Newark than inside  with his company's units running.

"There is a tiny bit of ozone that is introduced, but it's very, very low," he said. "And you get the benefit of the antimicrobial effect, you get the benefit of reduction of pathogens, which weve demonstrated in a number of studies, and you get the reduction of VOC [volatile organic compounds]."

Meanwhile, despite expert concerns, the devices continue to pop up in classrooms and school nurses' offices across the state, said Allen Barkkume, an industrial hygienist for the New Jersey teachers union.

He doesn't blame schools for buying them, as they're a lot less expensive than overhauling ventilation systems. Teachers often push for the devices in their classrooms, he said, as they see them in the nurses' offices and think it'll keep them safe. And superintendents are not well-versed in air quality's complex scientific concepts.

"Nothing sounds better than something that's cheap, quiet, small and easy to find, and we can stick them in every classroom," Barkkume said.

Tested in shoebox, sold for classrooms

While New York officials are "not permitting" the installation of ionization devices due to "potential negative health effects," schools across the state of New Jersey are installing ionizing devices.

Ten miles away from Newark in Montclair, New Jersey, parents have been raising hell over the new Global Plasma Solutions' ionizing devices in their children's classrooms. The company website promises a product that emits ions like those "created with energy from rushing water, crashing waves and even sunlight."

The devices emit positive and negative ions that are meant to help particles clump together, making them easier to filter out. The company says the ions can also reduce the viral particles that cause covid-19.

But Justin Klabin, a building developer with a background in indoor air quality and two sons in the district, was not convinced.

He spent hours compiling scientific evidence. He created painstaking YouTube videos picking apart the ionizers' viability and helped organize a petition signed by dozens of parents warning the school board against the installation.

Even so, the district spent $635,900 on installing ionizers, which would go in classrooms serving more than 6,000 kids. The devices are often installed in ducts, an important consideration, the company founder Charles Waddell said, because the ions that are emitted lose their power after 60 seconds.

But the company's shoebox study and inflated ion blast numbers that helped sell the product last year leave a potential customer with little sense of how the device would perform in a classroom, Zaatari said.

"It's a high cost for nothing," Zaatari said. The company has sued her and another air-quality consultant for criticizing their devices. Of the pending case, Zaatari said it is a David-versus-Goliath situation, but she will not be deterred from speaking on behalf of children.

"Size of the [test] chamber has proved not to play a role in efficacy results but rather ion density," GPS spokesperson Kevin Boyle said in an email. The company notes by its covid-inactivating test results that they "may include  higher-than-average ion concentrations."

He also said the company is proud to meet the ASHRAE "zero ozone" certification.

Glenn Morrison, a professor of environmental science and engineering at the University of North Carolina, reviewed a March GPS study on a device combating the covid virus in the air. The device appears to reduce virus concentrations, he said in an email, but noted it would not be very effective under normal building conditions, outside a test chamber. "A cheap portable HEPA filter would work many times better and have fewer side effects (possibly ozone or other unwanted chemistry)," he wrote.

Other parents joined Klabin's campaign, including Melanie Robbins, the mom of a kindergartner and a child in pre-K. Armed with her background in nonprofit advocacy, she reached out to experts. She and other parents spoke at local government meetings about their concerns.

In April, the superintendent told parents the school would turn off the devices, but parents say they haven't turned them all off.

"As far as I understand, the district has relied only on information from GPS, the manufacturer," Robbins said during a Montclair Board of Education meeting via Zoom on April 19. "This is like only listening to advice from Philip Morris as to whether smoking is safe or not."

Dan Daniello, of D&B Building Solutions, an HVAC contracting company, defended GPS products during the meeting. He said they are even in the White House, a selling point the company has made repeatedly.

The catch: A GPS contractor installed its ionization technology in the East Wing of the White House after it was purchased in 2018  before covid emerged, according to GPS' Boyle. But the company was still using the White House logo as a marketing image on its website when KHN asked the White House about the advertising in April. It was taken down shortly thereafter.

Boyle said GPS was "recently informed that the White House logo may not be used for marketing purposes, and promptly complied."

The Montclair school district did not respond to requests for comment.

"I want to bang my head against the wall, it's so black-and-white," Robbins said. "Admit this is a poor purchase, the district got played."

Selling 'the big kahuna'

Academic air-quality experts agree on what's best for schools: More outside air pumped into classes, MERV 13 filters in heating systems and portable HEPA filters. The solution is time-tested and effective, they say. Yet as common commodities, like a pair of khaki pants, these items are not widely flogged by a sales force chasing big commissions.

After covid hit, Tony Barron said the companies pitched air purifying technology nonstop to the Kansas district where he worked as a facility manager last fall.

Pressure came from inside the school as well. Teachers sent links for air cleaners they saw on the news. His superintendent had him meet with a friend who sold ionization products. He got constant calls, mail and email from mechanical engineering companies.

The hundreds of phone calls from air cleaner pitches were overwhelming, said Chris Crockett, director of facilities for Turner USD 202 in Kansas City, Kansas. While he wanted to trust the contractors he had worked with, he tested four products before deciding to spend several hundred thousands of dollars.

"Custodial supply companies see the writing on the wall, that theres a lot of money out there," he said. "And then a lot of money is going to be spent on HVAC systems."

ActivePure says on its website that its air purifiers are in hundreds of schools. In a press release, the company said they were "sold through a nationwide network of several hundred franchises, 5,000 general contractors/HVAC specialists and thousands of individual distributors."

Enviro Technology Pros, founded in January, is one company pitching ActivePure to HVAC contractors. In a YouTube video, the founders said contractors can make $950 for each air-cleaning device sold, and some dealers can make up to $30,000 a month. Citing the bounty of the billions in federal relief, another video touted ready-made campaigns to target school principals directly.

After KHN asked ActivePure for comment, the Enviro Technology Pros YouTube videos about ActivePure were no longer accessible publicly.

ActivePure did not respond to requests for comment but has said its devices are effective and one is validated by the Food and Drug Administration.

An Enviro Technology Pros founder, Rod Norman, told KHN the company was asked to take the posts down by Vollara, a company related to ActivePure. He called sales to schools "the big kahuna."

Shortly after he spoke with KHN, the website for his own company was taken down.

In an Instagram post that also disappeared, the company had asked: "4000 classrooms protected why not your kids?"

Shoshana Dubnow contributed to this report.
Biden has sought to maintain lines of communication with Republicans who have proposed a much punier infrastructure bill that would cost about $600 billion. But he is unlikely to scale back his plans that much, especially if it means months of haggling with GOP leaders.
Demand for Covid vaccines is slowing across most of California, but as traffic at vaccination sites eases, the vaccination rates across the state are showing wide disparities.

In Santa Clara County, home to Silicon Valley, nearly 67% of residents 16 and older have had at least one dose as of Wednesday, compared with about 43% in San Bernardino County, east of Los Angeles. Statewide, about 58% of eligible residents have received at least one dose.

The differences reflect regional trends in vaccine hesitancy and resistance that researchers have been tracking for months, said Dean Bonner, associate survey director at the Public Policy Institute of California, a nonpartisan think tank.

In a PPIC survey released Wednesday, only 5% of respondents in the San Francisco Bay Area and 6% of those in Los Angeles said they wouldn't be getting vaccinated. But that share is 19% in the Inland Empire and 20% in the Central Valley.

"More urban areas might be hitting a wall, but their number of shots given is higher," said Bonner. "The rural areas might be hitting a wall maybe even before, but their shots given isn't quite as high."

Infectious disease experts estimate that anywhere from 50% to 85% of the population would need to get vaccinated to put a damper on the spread of the virus. But overall state numbers may mask pockets of unvaccinated Californians, concentrated inland, that will prevent these regions from achieving "herd immunity," the point at which the unvaccinated are protected by the vaccinated. Epidemiologists worry that the virus may continue to circulate in these communities, threatening everyone.

The regional differences could be attributed, at least in part, to political opposition to the vaccine, said Bonner, as about 22% of Republicans and 17% of independents in the survey said they wouldn't be getting the vaccine, compared with 3% of Democrats.

But officials and epidemiologists see some encouraging signs that the state has yet to hit a wall of vaccine refusal. "As a strongly blue state, one would expect that California is less likely than red states to hit a relatively low ceiling of vaccination, assuming that the access is good and the messaging is strong," said Dr. Robert Wachter, chair of the department of medicine at the University of California-San Francisco School of Medicine.

As of Wednesday, 77% of seniors in California, and 68% of those ages 50 to 64, had received at least one dose of Covid vaccine, according to a KHN analysis. These large percentages reflect the early vaccine eligibility of these age groups and are a hopeful sign considering how difficult it was to get a shot in the beginning of the year, said Rebecca Fielding-Miller, an assistant professor at the University of California-San Diego specializing in infectious diseases and public health.

"I'm very hopeful that addressing access would pick up at least another 10-15% before we need to really start addressing myths and hesitancy issues," she said.

The state could see a new jump in vaccinations as workplaces, schools and event organizers begin to require the shots, Wachter said. For example, the University of California and California State University systems announced April 22 that their 1 million-plus students and staff members will be required to get vaccinated against Covid once the shots are formally licensed by the Food and Drug Administration, likely to occur this summer.

Still, the red-blue political distinction on vaccination is meaningful within California as well as nationally. Despite depressed vaccine demand across the board, counties that lean conservative have lower rates of vaccinations.

In true-blue Los Angeles, 4.5 million first Covid vaccine doses have been administered, meaning that about 55% of eligible Angelenos have gotten at least one shot.

But first-dose appointments at county-run sites were down at least 50% last week, said public health director Barbara Ferrer on Thursday. The county has opened several sites where people can walk in and get vaccinated without an appointment, but these walk-ins don't make up for all of the unfilled spots.

Last week probably marked the first time the county did not administer 95% of the doses distributed to it, she said.

In San Diego and Orange counties, meanwhile, vaccination appointments are going unfilled or taking days to get booked up.

About 20% of appointments in Orange County started going unclaimed on April 25 and the slack has persisted, said Dr. Regina Chinsio-Kwong, deputy health officer.

However, based on survey data from last winter indicating that about 58% of Orange County residents plan to get vaccinated against the coronavirus, the county is still expecting more residents to seek out appointments. As of Sunday, about 49% of residents had received at least one dose.

In San Diego, officials expect all appointments to be filled despite the slowdown, said county spokesperson Michael Workman. About 54% of eligible residents had received at least one dose as of Wednesday.

In San Bernardino, the slowdown started in late March, said county spokesperson David Wert. Only 42% of county residents had gotten at least one dose as of Monday.

Across the state, officials are unclear on the extent to which hesitancy or lack of access to a vaccine are responsible for the slowdown.

Campaigns to educate, convince and reach out to people have started to pick up throughout the country, including targeted messaging for conservatives. Ten GOP doctors in Congress recently issued an ad urging their constituents to get vaccinated.

Santa Clara is shifting most county-run sites to enable walk-ins and expanding evening and weekend hours to make it easier for working people to get a shot. San Diego and San Bernardino are also allowing walk-ins.

Other counties are returning unused doses to the state to be redistributed, a bounty from which Los Angeles County has benefited, according to Barbara Ferrer, director of the county public health department. Representatives from Blue Shield and the California Department of Public Health would not say which counties are sending doses back.

California's good pandemic news, which has enabled counties to reopen many businesses, is one of the challenges to getting less-than-enthusiastic people in for their shots right now, said Wachter of UCSF.

As of Thursday, California has one of the lowest case rates in the U.S. at 31.3 cases per 100,000 and a Covid-test positivity rate of 1.3%.

"My hope is that a strong communication campaign, perhaps coupled with some degree of vaccine requirements, will get some people to jump off the fence," Wachter said.
Measuring the presence and performance of neutralizing antibodies is crucial in the fight against the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. This allows us to glimpse how effective vaccines and antibody therapies are in conferring protective immunity against the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2).

Researchers in Germany and the U.S. described 11 unique nanobodies (Nbs) specific for the SARS-CoV-2 spike receptor-binding domain (RBD), of which 8 Nbs potentially inhibit the connection of RBD with the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2).

The study, published in the journal Embo Reports, shows the generation of biparatopic nanobodies as surrogates to monitor neutralizing immune responses in SARS-CoV-2 infected people. A competitive multiplex binding assay, called NeutrobidyPlex, enables high-throughput screening and extensive analyses of infected or vaccinated individuals.

The SARS-CoV-2 infectious agent

The SARS-CoV-2 contains a receptor-binding domain (RBD) located within the S1 subunit. It interacts with the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE2) receptor expressed on human epithelial cells of the respiratory tract to promote infection.

The spike protein and the ACE2 receptor act like a key and lock that binds to pave the way for viral entry. In-depth analysis showed the presence of spike-specific neutralizing antibodies (Nabs) in convalescent individuals who have recovered from COVID-19. These nanobodies inhibited viral uptake by several mechanisms.

To date, many nanobodies are in preclinical or clinical development to be tested if they can be prophylactic or therapeutic agents for COVID-19.

Nanobodies are single-domain antibodies derived from alpaca heavy-chain only antibodies. They have unique properties, like having a nanoscale size but a potent structure.

Compared to traditional monoclonal or polyclonal antibodies, nanobodies are smaller, more stable and consistent, have a higher affinity, and are easier to use.

Serological assays

Since the start of the pandemic, various serological SARS-CoV-2 assays have monitored seroconversion in people and estimated how many of the population have been exposed to the virus.

Most available serological tests measure the complete immune response, distinguishing between total binding and neutralizing antibodies. Detecting neutralizing antibodies is typically performed by traditional virus neutralization tests (VNTs), which are time-consuming and need work with infections virions in a specialized biosafety level 3 (BSL3) facility.

The study

To help overcome these problems, the researchers planned to use nanobodies as antibody surrogates and created a competitive binding approach to detect for neutralizing antibodies on a highthroughput basis in samples from patients or vaccinated individuals.

The team selected 11 unique nanobodies derived from an alpaca vaccinated with glycosylated SARSCoV2 RBD. Of these, the team identified eight nanobodies that efficiently blocked that interaction between RBD, S1, and homotrimeric spike protein (S), with ACE2 and neutralized SARS-CoV-2 infection in human cells. To arrive at this finding, the team used a multiplex in vitro binding assay.

From there, the team chose two of the most robust nanobodies that target different epitopes within RBD and produced a biparatopic Nb (bipNb). The bipNb represents a strong antibody surrogate with IC50 and improved binding affinities.

The team used the bipNb in a competitive multiplex binding assay, called NeutrobodyPlex, which provided a flexible high-throughput approach to detect a neutralizing immune response in people who have been exposed to the virus or had been vaccinated.

This way, researchers could monitor the immunity status in the general population to determine if vaccine efforts were successful in curbing the pandemic.

The study findings revealed that nanobodies specific for SARS-CoV-2 Spike RBD, which inhibits its interaction and binding with ACE2, are produced. Further findings also showed that the nanobodies binding inside and outside the RBD-ACE2 interface form biparatopic nanobodies for serological SARS-CoV-2 antibody testing.

The method used, NeutrobodyPlex, showed accurate detection of neutralizing antibodies in samples. Further, it allowed for the detailed classification of the neutralization potency of patients.

We demonstrate that NeutrobodyPlex enables highthroughput screening and detailed analysis of neutralizing immune responses in infected or vaccinated individuals, to monitor the immune status or to guide vaccine design, the researchers concluded in the study.

The use of the assay can help determine the extent of people who had been exposed to the virus or had been vaccinated. It can provide a bigger picture of vaccine success, showing how many people developed nanobodies against SARS-CoV-2.
The causative pathogen of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)  severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)  has led to the largest pandemic of modern times. This virus is one of seven coronaviruses known to cause human disease. While closely related to the SARS-CoV of 2002, it is far more infectious and has a long incubation period.

Thus, though it is much less deadly than the former, it has led to millions of deaths worldwide. The first case was reported from a seafood market in Wuhan, China. Since then, numerous theories have emerged regarding its origin.

A new study in Acta Mathematica Scientia suggests that the virus may have originated in multiple countries almost simultaneously, rather than spreading from China to the rest of the world.

Bat coronavirus closely related

Genomic sequencing shows that the virus is most closely related to the bat coronavirus RaTG13. This seems to indicate that it sprang from a bat coronavirus lineage. The RaTG13, however, was from a 2013 sample and formed a different lineage, incapable of direct human transmission.

Many scientists have focused on collecting and sequencing samples from putative intermediate hosts, including pangolin, mink and civets, but no clear chain is observable so far.

Study aim

The earliest transmission among humans was reported from Wuhan, while other countries reported their first cases in February 2020. However, the researchers say, evidence shows that the virus was already circulating in these countries back in December 2019, including Italy, France and the USA.

In the absence of complete viral sequences from samples collected at this date in these countries, the current study hoped to examine how the currently circulating sequences of the virus may be traced back to their earliest appearance in humans.

In contrast to multiple sequence alignment (MSA), which is the conventional method of finding relationships between genomic sequences, the paper used a k-mer natural vector method to encode the complete sequence of the viral genome as vectors, based on GISAID (Global Initiative for Sharing All Influenza Data) sequences.

More accurate method

The MSA method aligns the compared sequences to obtain a matrix of similarities between them. However, such similarity fails to satisfy the triangular inequality property of mathematical distance, and so cannot show the real biological distance of different sequences.

The k-mer method encodes the vectored sequences and defines their natural distance in order to measure how close they are to each other. Whereas most studies include only a single k value to estimate distances between sequences, the current work involves all k-mers for k  1.

They developed a new metric that satisfies the properties of positivity, non-negativity, symmetry and triangle inequality. The beauty of our new natural metric is that it contains information of the distributions from 1-mer to k-mer and is a mathematical metric for two genome sequences.

Since RaTG13 was the closest in relationship to SARS-CoV-2, its distance was calculated from each of the genomes sequenced from isolates of the latter.

What were the findings?

The RaTG13 sequence was found to be closest (shortest natural distance) to those of five isolates from France, India, the Netherlands, England and the USA.

Interestingly, the viral isolates in these five cases were just as close to RaTG13 as the Wuhan isolate was. The distances with the first five were all marginally less than 31,000, which was the distance of the Wuhan isolate from RaTG13.

These results indicate that the place where human-to-human SARS-CoV-2 transmission first happened is extremely unlikely to be Wuhan, but France, India, Netherlands, England and United States, with an accuracy rate higher than 91%.

Differences from earlier studies

Earlier studies had already suggested this possibility, since one team of scientists detected antibodies to the virus in the USA in December 2019, when no cases had been reported yet in that country. Similarly, a French study showed the presence of seropositivity (anti-SARS-CoV-2 immunoglobulin (Ig) G antibodies) in November 2019.

These studies did not include complete sequences, precluding the validation of their results by the current method. This paper advances beyond earlier uses of k-mer-based techniques by employing a one-on-one correspondence between the genome sequence and the k-mer natural vector.

Since at any value of k, the resulting k-mers will be used to calculate the newly defined metric in this study. This method conserves all available information to predict the actual biologic similarity between two sequences.

The researchers chose RaTG13 as the reference genome because it has not yet been proved that the SARS-CoV-2 reference genome (NC 045512.2) is the earliest strain. With the bat coronavirus being highly similar to the current virus, the distance from its sequence was expected to show how early the emerging strains from different countries had appeared.

What are the implications?

Based on the results, we conclude that before the outbreak at Wuhan, China, SARS-CoV-2 most likely has already existed in other countries such as France, India, Netherland, England and United States.

This bears out the existence of some samples that tested positive for COVID-19 before the first officially reported case in these countries.
Two national pharmacy chains that the federal government entrusted to inoculate people against Covid-19 account for the lion's share of wasted vaccine doses, according to government data obtained by KHN.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recorded 182,874 wasted doses as of late March, three months into the country's effort to vaccinate the masses against the coronavirus. Of those, CVS was responsible for nearly half, and Walgreens for 21%, or nearly 128,500 wasted shots combined.

CDC data suggests that the companies have wasted more doses than states, U.S. territories and federal agencies combined. Pfizer's vaccine, which in December was the first to be deployed and initially required storage at ultracold temperatures, represented nearly 60% of tossed doses.

It's not completely clear from the CDC data why the two chains wasted so much more vaccine than states and federal agencies. Some critics have pointed to poor planning early in the rollout, when the Trump administration leaned heavily on CVS and Walgreens to vaccinate residents and staff members of long-term care facilities. In response to questions, CVS said "nearly all" of its reported vaccine waste occurred during that effort. Walgreens did not specify how many wasted doses were from the long-term care program.

One thing is clear: Months into the nation's vaccination drive, the CDC has a limited view of how much vaccine is going to waste, where it's wasted and who is wasting it, potentially complicating efforts to direct doses to where they are needed most. Public health experts say having a good handle on waste is crucial for detecting problems that could derail progress and risk lives.

The Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines, which come in multidose vials, are fragile and have limited shelf lives. Overall, waste has been minuscule: As of March 30, the U.S. had delivered roughly 189.5 million vaccine doses and administered 147.6 million, including 7.7 million in long-term care facilities, according to the CDC.

Among other things, tracking wasted doses helps to identify bottlenecks where distribution adjustments might be needed, said Dr. Bruce Y. Lee, a professor of health policy and management at the City University of New York. Because the federal government is footing the bill for the country's doses, any waste amounts to "basically throwing [taxpayer] money down the chute," he said. CVS, Walgreens and other retailers don't pay for the vaccine. The government provides it. And under the Medicare program, it pays providers roughly $40 for each dose administered.

Particularly early on, officials didn't adequately assess where there would be demand and set up sites in response, Lee said  something that's especially important when trying to jab as many people as possible as quickly as possible.

"If you think of any business, they're going to determine where the customers are first," he said. "It's not just a matter of loading up vaccine and going to a place."

KHN's survey of vaccine waste is based on public records requests to the CDC and all 50 states, five major cities, Puerto Rico and Washington, D.C. Combined, the records document more than 200,000 wasted doses. However, the data has clear shortcomings. Data from 15 states, the District of Columbia and multiple U.S. territories are not included in the CDC's records. And, in general, waste reporting has been inconsistent.

In addition to the CDC, 33 states and D.C. provided at least some data to KHN in response to those records requests. They reported at least 18,675 additional doses that have been wasted across 10 jurisdictions not represented in the CDC figures. They include 9,229 doses wasted in Texas as of March 26 and 2,384 in New Hampshire as of March 10.

An additional eight states told KHN of more wasted doses than they reported to the CDC.

But no city or state comes close to the waste reported by CVS and Walgreens, whose long-term care vaccination drive was criticized by some officials as slow and ineffective. Among nursing home staffers, a median of 37.5% reported they got a shot in the first month, according to a February CDC study.

"To me, this ultimately correlates with just poor planning," said Dr. Michael Wasserman, immediate past president of the California Association of Long Term Care Medicine and a critic of the corporate effort.

Wasserman said the companies' approach was too restrictive and their unfamiliarity with long-term facilities' needs harmed the effort.

"CVS and Walgreens didn't have a clue when it came to interacting with nursing homes," he said. "Missed opportunities for vaccination in long-term care invariably results in deaths."

A CVS spokesperson, Michael DeAngelis, in an email blamed wasted doses on "issues with transportation restrictions, limitations on redirecting unused doses, and other factors."

"Despite the inherent challenges, our teams were able to limit waste to approximately one dose per onsite vaccination clinic," he added.

Walgreens said its wastage amounted to less than 0.5% of vaccines the company administered through March 29, which totaled 3 million shots in long-term care facilities and 5.2 million more through the federal government's retail pharmacy partnership.

"Our goal has always been ensuring every dose of vaccine is used," company spokesperson Kris Lathan said in an email. Before scheduled clinics, she said, Walgreens would base doses it would need on registrations, "which minimized excess and reduced overestimations."

CDC spokesperson Kate Fowlie said that because the retail pharmacy giants were tasked with administering a large number of doses, "a higher percentage of the overall wastage would not be unexpected, particularly in an early vaccination effort that spanned thousands of locations." Since President Joe Biden took office in January, his administration has directed pharmacies to prioritize vaccinations for teachers and school personnel.

Overall, pharmacies accounted for almost 75% of wasted doses reported to the CDC. States and some large cities accounted for 23.3% of vaccine waste reported, and federal agencies, including the Bureau of Prisons and the Indian Health Service, for just 1.54%. The Virgin Islands  the only U.S. territory in the federal data  was 0.19%.

"Though every effort is made to reduce the volume of wastage in a vaccination program, sometimes it's necessary to identify doses as 'waste' to ensure anyone wanting a vaccine can receive it, as well as to ensure patient safety and vaccine effectiveness," Fowlie said. Even still, the CDC has provided guidance and worked with health departments to train staff members to reduce wastage, and clinic staffers should do "everything possible" to avoid wasting shots, she added.

Vaccine waste could increase in the coming weeks as officials shift tactics to inoculate harder-to-reach populations, public health experts say.

"I think we are getting to a place where, to continue to be successful with vaccination, we're going to have to tolerate some waste," said Dr. Marcus Plescia, chief medical officer of the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials. People unwilling to travel to a mass-vaccination site might go to a primary care physician or smaller rural pharmacy that might not be able to use every dose in an open vial, he said.

Claire Hannan, executive director of the Association of Immunization Managers, said concerns about waste should not trump getting shots into arms.

"If someone's there, you need to vaccinate them," she said. "In our efforts not to waste a dose, we may be missing opportunities to vaccinate because we don't have 15 people lined up or 10 people lined up."

CDC numbers don't match state data

The federal government collects information about vaccine waste through federal systems called VTrckS, which manages ordering and shipments, and Tiberius, a platform run by the Department of Health and Human Services that monitors distribution. VTrckS can exchange data with state and local immunization registries that track who has received a shot, but some states rely on manual data entry, Hannan said.

The 15 states not included in the CDC's data are Alaska, California, Colorado, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon and Texas. The District of Columbia is also missing.

Of those jurisdictions, 11 provided data to KHN: Alaska, Colorado, Kansas, Maryland, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, Ohio, Oregon, Texas and D.C.

Most of those reported minimal waste to KHN: Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska and D.C. together registered just 1,090 wasted doses.

In others, the numbers are more significant. On March 19, the Maryland Department of Health said it knew of 3,175 wasted doses.

Texas had the most wasted doses of any state in either the CDC's data or the data states provided to KHN. Its records showed 9,229 wasted doses as of March 26, putting it third in overall waste behind CVS and Walgreens.

Fowlie, the CDC spokesperson, said the agency is "working closely" with states that have technical issues to ensure accurate reporting.

Broken freezers, bent needles, no-shows

The reasons states gave for waste varied, from broken vials and syringes, to provider storage errors, to leftover doses from open vials that couldn't be used.

The largest waste incidents, in which hundreds of doses were lost at a time, tended to be due to freezer malfunctions or workers leaving doses at room temperature too long.

But state records also register the little things that can go wrong.

On Dec. 16, the public health department in Gunnison County, Colorado, lost a single dose of the Pfizer vaccine when someone bumped into a table and a vial spilled. On Jan. 5, the Tri-County Health Department in Westminster, Colorado, reported that it wasted a Moderna dose because a hypodermic needle bent.

Remi Graber is a registered nurse who has vaccinated people at mass sites and community health clinics in Rhode Island. They said it's not uncommon for a vial to have one too many or one too few doses, which can lead to a dose being counted as wasted. There are also sometimes syringe problems that result in waste.

But Graber said the biggest problem is people not showing up. Once a vial is punctured, Pfizer's vaccine must be used within six hours. On April 1, Moderna announced that an opened vaccine vial was good for 12 hours  double what it had been previously.

"What could happen is you get people who just decide, 'You know what? I dont need my vaccine today. Im not going to show up,'" they said. "Well, now were scrambling to find somebody to take the vaccine, because we dont want to waste it."
New research shows that patients who have had contact with the hospital due to serious glandular disease have a greater risk of subsequently developing depression. The study from iPSYCH is the largest yet to show a correlation between glandular fever and depression.

The vast majority of Danes have had glandular fever - also called mononucleosis - before adulthood. And for the vast majority of them, the disease can be cured at home with throat lozenges and a little extra care. But for some, the disease is so serious that they need to visit the hospital.

A new research result now shows that precisely those patients who have been in contact with the hospital in connection with their illness, have a greater risk of suffering a depression later.

"Our study shows that it is associated with a forty per cent greater relative risk of developing depression, if the patient has been in contact with a hospital due to glandular fever," says Professor and Research Director Michael Eriksen Benros from the Mental Health Centre, Copenhagen, the University of Copenhagen and Aarhus University, who is behind the study.

Demonstrates a correlation

The risk was considerable for up to four years after the infection.

"It is well-known that mononucleosis infection can cause long-term fatigue afterwards, and we can now see that there is also an increased risk of developing actual depression, which requires contact with the hospital. Fortunately, this was only the case for 1 out of 35 with mononucleosis infection within the study's follow-up, he says.

The study is a register-based study which has followed 1,440,590 Danes, of whom 12,510 had contact with the hospital due to glandular fever, and of these, 358 - corresponding to three per cent - subsequently developed depression that required hospital contact.

Previous studies of the correlation between glandular fever and subsequent depression have primarily been small studies and the correlation has therefore been unclear. This study is the first major study able to demonstrate the correlation with a subsequent risk of depression with great statistical strength." Nina Vindegaard, Study's Lead Author, Mental Health Centre, Copenhagen

Affects young people

Glandular fever affects young people aged 10-25 years in particular, and symptoms include fatigue, pain in the neck, fever and swollen lymph nodes on the neck, often accompanied by fatigue in the months following. It is also often young people who come into contact with the hospital because their symptoms are serious.

"This knowledge is important - both for the patient and their parents, but also to a great extent for general practitioners - as there is an increased risk of depression after the infection," explains Nina Vindegaard.

According to Michael Eriksen Benros, part of the explanation for the increased risk may be that the brain is affected by the infection:

"We know that mononucleosis infection can lead to long-term fatigue, but the actual underlying mechanisms for how this happens to a greater extent for this particular infection compared to many other infections haven't been identified. The general hypotheses are that it happens through activation of the immune system, which may also lie behind the increased risk of depression," he says.

Background for the results

The register-based study followed 1.44 million Danes born between 1977-2005, with 12,510 of these having had contact with the hospital contact with mononucleosis. Mononucleosis infection was associated with a forty percent increased relative risk of subsequently developing depression. Relative risk is the risk of an undesired outcome in the treatment group divided by the same risk in the control group.

The study was carried out in collaboration between Associate Professor Liselotte Petersen, The National Centre for Register-based Research, Aarhus University, Professor Sren Dalsgaard, The National Centre for Register-based Research, Aarhus University and Consultant Bodil Lyng-Rasmussen, The Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Aalborg University Hospital.
New antivirals are being sought worldwide to fight back the ever-growing threat of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which has already claimed more than three million human lives.

A new study, released as a preprint on the bioRxiv* server, reports promising results with the natural product hopeaphenol, which successfully prevented the entry of the virus into host cells.

Several vaccines have been rolled out in many countries, but it is now clear that the gigantic task of global immunization will not be fulfilled within the current year.

Meanwhile, new variants of the novel coronavirus are constantly emerging across the world. These are often more infectious or virulent than the parent strain. Moreover, they seem to have acquired immune escape capabilities, resisting neutralization by the antibodies elicited by the earlier strains or by vaccines.

Stilbenoid activity

Many plants including Hopea, Vitis, Shorea and Anisoptera, are sources of stilbenoids such as ()-hopeaphenol, vatalbinoside A, vaticanol B, and their stereoisomers. Earlier work has shown that, in vitro, these inhibit cell proliferation, inhibit Gram-negative bacteria, fungi and the herpes simplex virus, as well as having anti-inflammatory properties.

In mouse studies, hopeaphenol also normalized triglyceride levels in the plasma following the feeding of olive oil, and glucose levels in mice fed with sugars. Moreover, it prevented liver injury due to the lethal lipopolysaccharides (LPS) that serve as Gram-negative endotoxins.

In these studies, the stilbenoids appeared to be tolerable and safe in vivo, even at high concentrations. These findings indicate the importance of extending these short-term in vivo studies to understand the efficacy of stilbenoids against SARS-CoV-2.

What were the findings?

It is necessary to develop antivirals that are effective against the virus. The current effort began with a library of purified derivatives of natural products.

On analysis, this yielded three compounds of the stilbenoid group. The compound ()-hopeaphenol is treated as representative of all three.

The researchers found that hopeaphenol prevented the viral spike receptor-binding domain (RBD), expressed on pseudoviruses, from binding to its host cell receptor, the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). It also prevents the replication of the virus in vitro without affecting the viability of the host cell.

Hopeaphenol continued to be effective against two of the SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOCs), the UK and South African, despite the presence of the mutations that enable them to escape immune neutralization and to be more infectious than the Wuhan or D614G strain.

Thus, these stilbenoid analogs, especially hopeaphenol, offer hope for the development of a broad-spectrum SARS-CoV-2 antiviral, inhibiting entry into host cells. These could be used alone or in combination with antivirals already in use against other viral targets.

More recent molecular docking analysis has shown the potential of stilbenoids to prevent RBD-ACE2 binding. The compound kobophenol A, also a stilbenoid, has also been shown to prevent this interaction at a low inhibitory concentration (50% of binding inhibited at 1.8 M.

Kobophenol A also inhibited the replication of SARS-CoV-2, with 50% inhibition being observed at 71.6 M. The current findings with hopeaphenol confirm these earlier results.

Effects of stilbenoids on inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 Mpro activity. A, Demonstration of recombinant Mpro enzymatic activity on a FRET-based fluorogenic peptide substrate. B, Dose response curves of stilbenoids and control inhibitor GC-376 on Mpro enzymatic activity.

However, the researchers failed to observe similar antiviral activity with resveratrol, even at 100 M, despite earlier reports of 50% effectiveness in preventing the infection of cells in culture by the virus at a tenth of this concentration. One likely reason for this discrepancy could be the fact that the previous work used polymerase chain reaction of the supernatant to check for cell infection, while the current work relied on the observation of cytopathic effects (CPE) caused by the virus within infected cell cultures.

What are the conclusions?

The three compounds studied here showed selective activity against RBD-ACE2 binding relative to another ligand-receptor pair with unrelated physiological activity. However, they must be studied in greater detail to exclude cytotoxicity.

Further research may detect or synthesize analogs with improved safety and therapeutic margins.

Stilbenoids are also easily degraded by oxidation, light and changes in the pH. This vulnerability may explain why vaticanol B showed three-fold lower effectiveness than the other two compounds (hopeaphenol and vatalbinoside A) in preventing RBD-ACE2 binding in vivo, both during pseudovirus inhibition studies and in CPE assays. However, it had the greatest potency in vitro.

The scientists did not observe significant inhibitory activity against the SARS-CoV-2 main protease, however, as seen in a virtual screening study recently. This indicates that the antiviral activity observed here is likely not due to Mpro inhibition.

This is supported by the finding of higher activity against the South African spike variant, compared to both the Wuhan and the UK variant.

However, it may be possible to identify stilbenoid derivatives that are active against both the spike entry protein and the Mpro enzyme, thus delivering a double hit to the virus. This would not just improve the efficacy but reduce the chances of emerging resistance.

These results suggest that spike mutations that promote vaccine-induced viral escape may be distinct from those that might arise from ongoing treatment with hopeaphenol and potentially other stilbenoid-based entry inhibitors.

*Important Notice

bioRxiv 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.
Preliminary results of a clinical trial, presented today at the AATS 101st Annual Meeting, showed that a new, low-profile thoracic aortic endograft is safe and effective in the treatment of descending thoracic aortic aneurysm or penetrating atherosclerotic ulcer (PAU) diseases.

A multi-disciplinary team, led by both cardiac and vascular surgeons as co-investigators, conducted the study in 36 centers in the United States and Japan, enrolling patients between 2016 and 2019.

The trial aimed to measure safety and efficacy of the RELAYPro endovascular device, a second-generation product featuring a dramatically reduced profile and a non-bare stent (NBS) configuration.

The prospective, international, non-blinded, non-randomized pivotal trial analyzed a primary safety endpoint of major adverse events (MAE) at 30 days (death, myocardial infarction, stroke, renal/respiratory failure, paralysis, bowel ischemia, procedural blood loss) and a primary effectiveness endpoint of treatment success at one year (technical success, patency, absence of aneurysm rupture, type I/III endoleaks, stent fractures, secondary interventions, aneurysm expansion, and migration). Treatment success at one year was 89.2 percent.

With a 3 to 4 French profile reduction, this second generation thoracic endograft device met the one year safety and effectiveness endpoints in a pivotal study for the treatment of patients with aneurysms of the descending thoracic aorta or PAUs." Dr. Wilson Szeto, Professor of Surgery, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania and Penn Presbyterian Medical Center

"It is particularly positive to note that the reduction in profile and the availability of a non bare stents configuration will expand the population of patients who can be treated with the device and reduces complications."

In this study, the vast majority of patients in the United States were treated with a percutaneous approach, which can dramatically reduce surgical complications associated with higher profile devices requiring surgical cutdown for deployment.

At one year follow up, patients demonstrated a low risk of mortality, endoleak or structural integrity concerns. Follow-up continues to five years and the device is currently being evaluated for approval by the FDA.
A recent study published in the Journal Emerging Microbes and Infections has highlighted the emergence of a novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variant with mutations in the membrane protein-encoding gene. Two potential mutations, M:I82T and M:V70L, have been identified within the transmembrane helices, which are expected to improve viral fitness by modulating glucose uptake during replication.

Background

Whole-genome sequencing studies of newly emerging viral variants are particularly important for identifying mutations that emerge under positive selection and play vital roles in viral evolution. In the later phase of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, several novel SARS-CoV-2 variants with multiple spike protein mutations have emerged. Because of significantly increased infectivity and immune escape ability, some of these variants have become the predominantly circulating variants worldwide. Therefore, to effectively control the trajectory of COVID-19 pandemic, continuous genomic surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 sequences both at the national- and global level are of prime importance.

In the current study, scientists have reported the emergence of a novel SARS-CoV-2 variant containing signature mutations in the membrane protein-encoding gene.

Study design

The scientists conducted reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for whole-genome sequencing of a total of 2,900 SARS-CoV-2-positive patient samples. They subsequently compared these sequences with full-length SARS-CoV-2 sequences downloaded from the GISAID and NCBI databases for viral variant analysis.

Furthermore, they performed phylogenetic analysis and SARS-CoV-2 membrane protein structural predictions using a multiple sequence alignment program and a specialized service for structural analysis of missense variants.

Important observations

By analyzing the missense mutation carrying genome and synonymous mutation carrying genome, the scientists estimated that missense mutations should occur 2.7 times, 3.1 times, 3.8 times more frequently than the synonymous mutations in the envelope protein-coding gene, membrane protein-coding gene, and ORF6-coding gene, respectively. By comparing missense mutation carrying genomes with synonymous mutation carrying genomes, they noticed that the membrane gene is highly conserved and possibly under robust purifying selection.

By estimating the membrane gene missense mutation carrying viral genomes, they identified only 4 missense mutations in viral genomes collected from the USA in February 2021. With further analysis, they observed a gradual increase in missense membrane gene mutations in viral genomes in the USA and worldwide.

Phylogenetic analysis of viral genomes carrying missense M mutations, colored by lineage background.

By analyzing the frequency of increase for these mutations, they observed that M:I48V mutation is highly specific to the USA and that most of the viral isolates carrying this mutation belong to the B.1.375 lineage. However, currently, the frequency of this mutation dropped significantly in the USA.

In contrast to the M:I48V mutation, the frequency of M:I82T mutation was found to increase by 116-fold between October 2020 and February 2021 in the USA. The scientists confirmed that the viral isolates carrying this mutation predominantly belong to the B.1 and B.1.525 lineages and that about 99% of the B.1.525 lineage currently carry this mutation.

With further analysis, the scientists noticed that the largest M:I82T carrying clade is part of a young M:I82T sub-B.1 lineage and that about 90% of the isolates in this clade contain 10 other missense mutations. They mentioned that the M:I82T clade is significantly different from other B.1 lineage clades, and thus, a separate designation is required for this clade. Interestingly, they found that the second-largest M:I82T carrying clade is currently circulating in Europe and Africa and co-segregating with the E484K Spike protein mutation. Because of the absence of E484K Spike mutation in the USA M:I82T clade, the scientists suggest that M:I82T mutation may have implications in viral evolution independent of E484K Spike mutation.

The scientists identified a number of other membrane gene mutations that showed a recent surge in frequency worldwide. Focusing on these mutations, they collected more than 5,500 sequences carrying any of these mutations for phylogenetic analysis. Their analysis revealed that many of these sequences belong to the B.1.1.7 lineage, which also carries a synonymous membrane gene mutation.

Furthermore, the scientists selected four membrane gene mutations (M:A2S, M:F28L, M:I82T, and M:V70L) and analyzed their presence in viral isolates collected from the study patients. Their analysis revealed that the mean age of patients carrying each of these mutations was 37  39 years, whereas the mean age of patients without these mutations was 43 years.

Study significance

The study highlights the rapid emergence of the B.1.I82T clade with SARS-CoV-2 membrane gene mutations in the USA and worldwide. Overall, the findings suggest that viral variants containing membrane gene mutations exhibit higher transmissibility among younger populations and that mutations emerging in the viral membrane protein-encoding gene play crucial roles in increasing viral fitness probably by controlling glucose uptake during viral replication.
A fascinating new study discusses the 40 mutations that are seen on the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) spike protein and their potential effects on viral biology.

The virus itself, which is responsible for the ongoing pandemic of novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), is in the same subgenus as the Sarbecoviruses SARS-CoV and the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS)-CoV. These are known to have originated in civets and camels, respectively, and have undergone few mutations before leaping the species barrier into humans.

In SARS-CoV, K479N and S487T were the mutations that enabled the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the viral spike to bind to the human host receptor, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2).

On the other hand, they caused short though deadly outbreaks, in contrast to the SARS-CoV-2, which has already been circulating in humans for over a year. During this period, many mutations have emerged that appear to impact viral fitness, such as the D614G that rapidly became the dominant strain worldwide.

Compilation of SARS-CoV-2 spike mutations occurring in humas and animals. Red spheres: United Kingdom (UK) variant, Blue spheres: South African (ZA) variant, Magenta: both UK/ZA variants, Yellow spheres: animals as indicated in the inset. NTD: Amino-terminal domain. RBD: Receptor binding domain.

This is attributed to its ability to increase the viral load in the upper airway by means of doing away with a hydrogen bond that linked this site with another on an adjacent spike protomer. By so doing, it reduced the stability of the trimeric spike, allowing greater interaction of the spike RBD with the ACE2 receptor.

The UK variant of concern, B.1.1.1.7, has 17 new mutations, with eight being located in the spike. The South African (SA) variant B.1.351 also has many spike mutations. Similarly, many mutations have been reported during the human-animal transmission of the virus, during experimental passage and during human interactions with pet or farmed, or even zoo, animals.

The Q493 and N501 residues in SARS-CoV-2 correspond to the ACE2 contact residues K479N and S487T in SARS-CoV. The UK variant shows the mutation N501Y in the second of these, as well as delH69, delV70, delY145, A570D, P681H, T716I, S982A and D1118H.

The N501Y probably allows the spike to interact with the 41Y residue on the receptor via a pi-pi bond.

The SA variant, also called 501Y.V2, has the above mutation N501Y, in addition to D80A, D215G, K417N, E484K and A701V. Another variant has been identified in Africa that has the P681H mutation, like the UK variant. This is related to the presence of the furin cleavage site in the spike protein in SARS-CoV-2.

The N501Y mutation has shown positive selection in aged mice during successive viral passages, and is associated with improved replication. When passaged still further, two mutations, namely, Q493H and K417N, with higher pathogenicity, were selected. Interestingly, the Q493K is also associated with higher replication and pathogenesis in mice, while the second mutation, K471N, is present in the SA variant.

Yet another mouse variant that emerged after six passages has been found, which contains Q493K as well as a deletion between Q675 and N679.

The transmission to mink led to the emergence of the mutations Y453F, F486L and N501T, all in the RBD, the last of which probably improves RBD-ACE2 binding. It has been observed in the virus following its passage in ferrets, which, along with mink, have given rise to two mutations at the furin cleavage site.

Transmission to pet cats and to big cats in zoos has also been reported, and dogs also can be infected. However, no mutations have been reported as essential to such species transfers.

The scientists classify the mutations into four groups:

The RBD mutations which may allow immune evasion from existing antibodies and specific cells, or to cross a species barrier like N501Y or N501T.

The N-terminal domain (NTD) contains the region with maximum exposure on the surface of the viral particle. This is also rife with mutations, such as delH69/delV70 in the UK variant, which, it is suggested, could improve fitness.

Mutations in the furin cleavage site are plentiful in phylogenetic studies, and also allow the transmission to different species. The P681H in this region may affect the infectious nature of the virus.

Multiple spike mutations such as D614G occur in the metastable spike region, and may affect infectivity. Another metastable region is at the fusion region at the base of the spike, which not only influences the transition to the fusion form, while also playing a key role as epitopes for neutralizing antibodies in other class I fusion proteins.

What are the implications?

Of the many mutations so far observed, most are relatively unimportant. Those that it is vital to keep under surveillance are N501Y, D614G and P681H, as they drive the rapid and extensive spread of the virus through the population.

Further attention should be paid, suggests an independent reviewer, to the fact that almost one in four mutations listed in this study involves a histidine residue, which has unique chemical properties making it a specific functional group at any location.

The base of the spike is less studied than its head, but has shown startlingly low changes, only one in over 125 residues so far, and none in humans. It is highly conserved, with only a 2.3% disparity from the SARS-CoV spike of the original Wuhan Hu1 virus.

The S2 base is composed of nine distinct regions which have changed little over the course of the pandemic, or even over the last century. It has several Cholesterol-Recognition Amino acid Consensus (CRAC) sequences along with a Juxtamembrane Aromatic Rich region (JAR) that partners the fusion peptide in mediating membrane fusion.

The combination of a CRAC motif followed by an especially potent JAR motif is a powerful region for cholesterol-targeted membrane perturbation. It is among the most powerful among any of the Class I Fusion Proteins, including HIV-1 and Ebola. The efficiency of the 1179-1220 region of SARS-CoV-2 as a fusion machine cannot be overestimated.

The S2 also has a cysteine cluster at the transmembrane region that helps to anchor the large spike to the cell membrane more avidly. It provides free SH groups for intermolecular bonding.

The scientists point out that the ongoing widespread of the virus is bound to lead to the emergence of multiple non-silent mutations that affect viral spread and neutralizing capacity. Monitoring of the pandemic must therefore employ genomic sequencing all over the world.

In its absence, situations like the present are bound to perpetuate themselves, with new variants being detected long after they have left the region where they were first detected.

Moreover, to be effective against such mutants and, even more importantly, to prevent the emergence of new ones, available and newly developed monoclonal antibodies should be used in combinations, to prevent positive selection of one or more mutations by immune escape.

Finally, the number of mutations that are of biological significance is surprisingly low, and vaccination induces a robust polyclonal antibody response that cannot easily be evaded by one or other of these mutations.
Every country has been affected by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) that has spawned a pandemic. For several factors, the United States has been hit hard by the number of coronavirus cases and death. The country currently leads the world with over 32.4 million infections and more than 577,000 COVID-19 deaths.

But not all states have been equally affected by the coronavirus, with certain U.S. counties  Los Angeles, California, Maricopa, Arizona, and Cook, Illinois  having a higher number of cases. Theres also a possibility for underreporting of COVID-19 cases and deaths. Research led by Andrew C. Stokes of Boston University School of Public Health modeled the expected mortality rate in 2020 and estimated excess deaths that were not attributed to COVID-19.

They found differences between state-level COVID-19 mortality rates and the estimated number of excess deaths by county.

The present study builds on prior work by extending estimates of excess mortality and excess deaths not assigned to COVID-19 to U.S. counties. The added geographic detail of these estimates compared to prior studies may facilitate additional research on the causes and consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic on population health and provide useful data for local area health policy and planning, wrote the authors.

The study County-Level Estimates of Excess Mortality associated with COVID-19 in the United States is available as a preprint on the medRxiv* server, while the article undergoes peer review.

How they did it

The team created a linear model using historic data from 2011-2019 to predict excess mortality rates in 2020.

Excess death was defined as the differences between the predicted versus the observed number of all-cause deaths in 2020. Excess deaths not attributed to COVID-19 infection were described as the number of excess deaths in 2020 and the number of observed directly assigned COVID-19 deaths.

The researchers only used counties with statistically significant increases in excess deaths, which exceeded expectations for the number of deaths in 2020. The researchers suggest several possibilities for why some counties did not experience substantial increases in excess mortality including, incomplete data, counties with small populations, effective health policy measures or geographic isolation that mitigated the spread of COVID-19, and counties with higher mortality rates attributed to vehicle accidents, flu infections, or other non-COVID causes of death.

COVID-19 Deaths by County (Per 1000 Person-Years). Heat maps of direct COVID-19 deaths per 1000 person-years by county (top) and excess death rate per 1000 person-years by county (bottom). Numbers are based on provisional data from the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) on COVID-19 mortality by county of residence from January 1 to December 31, 2020 reported by April 21, 2021. Note that estimates for counties in North Carolina may be unreliable due to reporting lags.

Inaccuracy of reporting data for COVID-19 mortality rates in 2020

Some counties were more affected than others in the pandemic. Researchers found high direct COVID-19 death rates and high excess death rates, such as McKinley County in New Mexico and Lamb County in Texas.

Meanwhile, other counties  Aransas County in Texas, Dallas County in Montana, and Clarke County, in Alabama  who reported high excess death rates did not assign COVID-19 as the cause of death for many mortality cases. The results suggest using direct COVID-19 death rates as the measure may have changed the reporting of excess mortality between counties.

Rural counties had higher mortality cases assigned to COVID-19 and excess death rates compared to urban counties. Proportion-wise, rural counties had 67% of excess deaths related to COVID-19 than 83% of urban areas.

The South and Midwest experienced more COVID-19 deaths and excess deaths than the Northeast and West. But when looking at the proportion of excess deaths related to COVID-19, measures used to determine this amount suggested lower COVID-19 mortality rates amongst the West (75%) and South (76%) compared to the Northeast (94%) and Midwest (81%).

Classification of Counties based on Excess and COVID-19 Deaths. U.S. counties colored according to four major categories: (1) high excess death rate and less than 68% of excess deaths assigned to COVID-19, (2) high excess death rate and between 68% and 100% of excess deaths assigned to COVID-19, (3) high excess death rate and directly assigned death rate exceeds excess death rate, and (4) low or negative excess death rate. High excess indicates that the county had total deaths in 2020 that exceeded the upper 95% prediction interval threshold. Ratio denotes the ratio of direct COVID-19 deaths to excess deaths. Note that estimates for counties in North Carolina may be unreliable due to reporting lags.

County results differ by geographic location

The researchers found 47% of excess deaths in nonmetro areas in the Middle Atlantic division were attributed to COVID-19 compared to metropolitan areas that assigned 85% of mortality cases in 2020 to coronavirus infections.

In the Pacific division, only 39% of excess deaths were attributed to COVID-19 in nonmetro areas compared to the 78% reported in large central metros.

New England metro areas contrasted with other metro areas by having a low number of COVID-19 deaths. However, the researchers suggest this is likely due to increases in other non-COVID causes of death. But in large central metros in New England, there were 132% excess deaths assigned to COVID-19. Nonmetro areas in New England had 64% of excess deaths related to COVID-19.

Adjusted Excess Death Rate by County. Heat map of adjusted excess death rate by county. The adjusted excess death rate is defined as the excess death rate divided by the standard error of the prediction for a given county and year. Note that estimates for counties in North Carolina may be unreliable due to reporting lags.

Excess deaths not assigned to COVID-19

New York City counties  Bronx, Queens, and Kings County  reported a high number of excess deaths not attributed to COVID-19 and the highest directly assigned COVID-19 death rates.

Some counties, including Middlesex County in Massachusetts and Kings County in Washington, were predicted to have low excess death rates, suggested that mortality cases directly assigned to COVID-19 were more significant than the excess death rate.

*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.
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In the setting of potentially reduced vaccine efficacy against coronavirus disease (COVID-19) due to emerging viral variants, the deployment of effective treatments based on monoclonal antibodies may be an additional strategy to help control the pandemic. A new study by US researchers, currently available on the bioRxiv* preprint server, describes the action of a specific antibody known as DH1047.

The emergence of SARS-CoV (a causative agent of the original SARS outbreak) and SARS-CoV-2 (a causative agent of COVID-19) in the last two decades highlights an urgent need to expand our armamentarium against Sarbecoviruses, which is a group of RNA viruses (notorious for jumping from animals to humans) that includes two aforementioned pathogens.

Likewise, with the recent emergence of more transmissible, highly virulent, and neutralization resistant variants that can partly avoid existing countermeasures, there is a need to devise next-generation monoclonal antibodies that will be able to broadly neutralize current and future SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern.

These variants can diminish the efficacy of vaccines that are currently distributed; hence, real-time monitoring is needed to evaluate the performance of current vaccine protocols and therapies with monoclonal antibodies. These insights may prove indispensable for mitigating any future zoonotic event caused by the same group of viruses.

In agreement with the notion that the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the spike glycoprotein contains a conserved epitope that is shared among SARS, SARS-like, SARS-CoV-2, and the variants of concern, researchers from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Duke University School of Medicine have identified a pan-coronavirus protective antibody  DH1047.

Evaluating protective potential in laboratory and animal studies

In order to appraise whether cross-reactive antibodies can neutralize divergent Sarbecoviruses, this research group has measured neutralizing activity against live viruses such as mouse-adapted SARS-CoV-2 2AA virus, SARS-CoV, bat coronavirus RsSHC014, and bat coronavirus WIV-1.

Furthermore, to evaluate the protective efficacy of the four RBD-specific cross-reactive IgG antibodies found in the previous step (designated as DH1235, DH1073, DH1046, and DH1047), they have used them to immunize aged mice passively and subsequently evaluated viral replication in lungs.

The binding epitope of DH1047 was then visualized and compared with the previously published structure of the complex with the SARS-CoV-2 spike ectodomain. At the same time, its protective efficacy was further appraised against SARS-CoV-2 B.1.351 variant and pre-emergent bat coronaviruses.

Cryo-EM structure of DH1047 bound to SARS-CoV spike. (A) Cryo-EM reconstruction of DH1047 Fab bound to SARS-CoV spike shown in grey, with the underlying fitted model shown in cartoon representation. DH1047 is colored green, the RBD it is bound to is colored black with the Receptor Binding Motif within the RBD colored purple. (B) Overlay of DH1047 bound to SARS-CoV-1 and SARS-CoV-2 (PDB ID: 7LDI) S proteins. Overlay was performed with the respective RBDs. DH1047 bound to SARS-CoV and SARS708 CoV-2 spike is shown in green and and salmon, respectively. (C) ACE2 (yellow surface representation, PDB 6VW1) binding to RBD is sterically hindered by DH1047. The views in panels B and C are related by a ~180 rotation about the vertical axis. (D) DH1047 binding relative to binding of other known antibody classes that bind the RBD. RBD is shown in black with the ACE2 footprint on the RBD colored yellow. DH1047 is shown in cartoon representation and colored green. The other antibodies and shown as transparent surfaces: C105 (pale cyan, Class 1, PDB ID: 6XCN and 6XCA), DH1041 (light blue, Class 2, PDB ID: 7LAA), S309 (wheat, Class 3, PDB ID:6WS6 and 6WPT) and CR3022 (pink, Class 4 , PDB ID: 6YLA)

Robust efficacy against zoonotic SARS-like viruses

In this study, the authors have demonstrated successful neutralization of SARS-CoV, bat coronaviruses RsSHC014 and WIV-1, as well as SARS-CoV-2 variants D614G, B.1.1.7 (UK variant), B.1.429 (California variant), B1.351 (South African variant) by a receptor-binding domain (RBD)-specific antibody DH1047.

Furthermore, prophylactic and therapeutic approaches with the use of DH1047 showed adequate protection against SARS-CoV, RsSHC014, WIV-1, and SARS-CoV-2 B1.351 variant infection in the mice model. Additional structural and attachment analysis demonstrated high-affinity binding of DH1047 to a specific epitope (or antigen molecule) highly conserved among Sarbecoviruses.

We conclude that DH1047 is a broadly protective monoclonal antibody that has efficacy against pre-emergent, zoonotic SARS-like viruses from different clades, neutralizes highly transmissible SARS-CoV-2 variants, and protects against SARS-CoV-2 B.1.351, say study authors in this bioRxiv paper.

Implications for treatment and future approaches

In the future, it will be pivotal to monitor both SARS and SARS2-like coronaviruses of zoonotic origin closely and actively observe if broad-spectrum antibodies like DH1047, ADG-2, and S2X259 maintain their inhibitory activity when confronted with pre-emergent viruses.

We envision a system in which broad-spectrum antibodies like DH1047 could be tested for safety in small Phase I clinical trials so that in the event that a future SARS-like virus emerges, DH1047 could immediately be tested in larger efficacy trials at the site of an outbreak to potentially prevent the rapid spread of an emergent coronavirus, further explain study authors.

In addition, taking into account that DH1047 displayed vigorous in vivo protection against the SARS-CoV-2 B.1.351 variant of concern, this monoclonal antibody could be used as a potential therapeutic in our combat against the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. These findings support its early administration, as this may well be a critical step in preventing severe disease outcomes.
Pell City, AL (35125)

Today

Rain showers this morning with numerous thunderstorms developing during the afternoon hours. High 84F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%. Locally heavy rainfall possible..

Tonight

Thunderstorms early, then variable clouds overnight with still a chance of showers. Low 69F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%.
Jeffersonville, IN (47130)

Today

Rain showers this morning with numerous thunderstorms developing during the afternoon hours. High 81F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%. Locally heavy rainfall possible..

Tonight

Thunderstorms early, then variable clouds overnight with still a chance of showers. Low near 70F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.
(Newser)  A social media account linked to the Communist Party of China sparked outrage with a post that appeared to mock India. A quickly deleted post on Weibo, Chinas top social network, showed images of a rocket launch in China and a cremation site in India under text reading Lighting a fire in China VS lighting a fire in India, the BBC reports. The account it appeared on belongs to a powerful law-enforcement agency, the partys Central Political and Legal Affairs Commission, and has 15 million followers, the Hindu reports. The post stayed viral after it was deleted, with users sharing screenshots and expressing their outrage over the message.

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Some Weibo users called for sympathy for India, including the editor-in-chief of the Global Times in China. Hu Xijin said it was time to firmly place Chinese society on the moral high ground, according to the BBC. The post showed up just a day after China President Xi Jinping sent condolences and an offer of aid to India. India is enduring a grueling second wave of COVID cases, with a staggering number of deaths3,498 reported on Friday. The country is the only one to report 400,000 new cases in a single day. (Read more about India and China.)
(Newser)  A runoff for a US House seat in Texas is set between Republican Susan Wright, whose husband Ron was the first member of Congress to die after being diagnosed with COVID-19, and Republican Jake Ellzey. Democrat Jana Lynne Sanchez was narrowly locked out of the runoff in Texas' 6th Congressional District, which has long been GOP territory, per the AP. With nearly all votes counted, Sanchez had trailed Ellzey by 354 votes. She said in a statement Sunday that her campaign came up short. Democrats "have come a long way toward competing in Texas but we still have a long way to go, Sanchez said the statement.

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Ellzey is a state lawmaker who narrowly lost the GOP nomination for the seat in 2018 and carried the backing of former Texas Gov. Rick Perry. Susan Wright had already been seen as a favorite in a crowded race to fill the seat of her late husband, who died in February after being diagnosed with COVID-19. He was 67. The date of the runoff has not yet been set. Wright will enter the runoff with the backing of former President Trump, who waited until just days before the election to endorse Wright.

(Read more Congress stories.)
(Newser)  Three people died and more than two dozen were hospitalized when a boat capsized near San Diego. Officials say they suspect the boat was smuggling people into the US, the San Diego Union-Tribune reports. Parks workers saw people in the water off the coast of Point Loma near the Cabrillo National Monument. Emergency crews were called around 10:30 Sunday morning, and lifeguards pulled people out of the water, some of whom needed CPR. Jose Ysea, a spokesman for the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department, said there was a large debris field in the water, where it appeared choppy waves in rocky water had pummeled a wooden boat. He said it was possible, though he couldn't confirm, that the people were crammed into a small, open, wooden boat, a type often used by human smugglers, per the AP.

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Ysea said 27 people were hospitalized with varying degrees of injuries. Authorities were confident but not certain that everyone on the boat had been accounted for, but searchers in boats and aircraft continue to scan for survivors. San Diego Fire-Rescue Department tweeted that the US Coast Guard, among other agencies, is assisting. Supervisory Border Patrol Agent Jeffery Stephenson said he couldnt confirm that the boat was involved in human smuggling, but that Border Patrol has intercepted small boats called pangas packed with passengers in the past. Border officials picked up 21 people in a small boat in the same area on Thursday, the Guardian reports. Some of the passengers were reported to be Mexican nationals seeking to enter the US, and the people suspected of smuggling them will face federal charges. (Read more human smuggling stories.)
(Newser)  Gone are the baggy clothes and black-and-green hair: Billie Eilish, 19, appears in a pinup-style outfit, with her new blonde hair, on the cover of British Vogue. The new look also heralds a new album (Happier Than Ever is due out in July, Billboard reports), and that album includes a song aimed at those who exploit and abuse underage girls. "Don't make me not a role model because you're turned on by me," Eilish tells Vogue. More big lines from the interview, which can be read in full here:

Of the song "Your Power," Eilish says, "Its an open letter to people who take advantagemostly men." She adds, "I would like people to listen to me. And not just try to figure out who Im talking about, because its not about that. Its really not at all about one person. You might think, Its because shes in the music industryno, dude. Its everywhere. I dont know one girl or woman who hasnt had a weird experience, or a really bad experience. And men, tooyoung boys are taken advantage of constantly."

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Eilish says she was abused when she was younger, though she doesn't discuss the details other than to say it was not by someone in the music business. "You can always be taken advantage of. Thats a big problem in the world of domestic abuse or statutory rapegirls that were very confident and strong-willed finding themselves in situations where theyre like, Oh my god, Im the victim here? And its so embarrassing and humiliating and demoralizing to be in that position of thinking you know so much and then you realize, Im being abused right now."

She anticipates getting criticized for the subject of the interview and her look on the cover: "Youre going to complain about being taken advantage of as a minor, but then youre going to show your boobs?" she imagines someone asking. "Yes I am, mother------! Im going to because theres no excuse."

One random quote, on the question of whether she has a horse: "Maybe, maybe not, who knows? Thats a whole part of my life that Im not interested in anybody having any info on."

She also talks about the unplanned year off she got due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which she spent swimming and eating Taco Bell and making the new album with her brother Finneas. The full interview is worth a read. (Read more Billie Eilish stories.)
(Newser)  A 39-year-old Colorado woman took her dogs for a walk Friday morning and failed to return. That night, her boyfriend returned from work to find the dogs outside their Durango home and the woman nowhere to be seen, the Durango Herald reports. He ultimately discovered her body. Authorities think she was fatally attacked by a black bear, and necropsies performed on the female bear and two yearlings found nearby suggest that was indeed the case. An autopsy will be performed as well, USA Today reports. "Wildlife officers responded and observed signs of consumption on the body and an abundance of bear scat and hair at the scene," a state Parks and Wildlife rep said. The bears were euthanized. Necropsies found human remains in the stomachs of the female and one of the yearlings, the Herald reports, with the wildlife pathologist noting the bears displayed healthy levels of body fat.

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The last time a bear killed a person in Colorado was 2009, and in that case it was determined the elderly victim had illegally fed bears near her property. A Colorado Parks and Wildlife regional manager emphasizes that bear attacks are "extremely rare." Authorities say people can help to protect themselves by making noise as they walk outside, walk with another person, or use bear spray or air horns. If a bear is encountered, they say, it's best to remain still, make sure the bear has an escape route, and if it doesn't leave, slowly wave your arms over your head to make yourself appear bigger while speaking to the bear in a normal voice and backing away slowly. If attacked, however, it's time to yell, throw rocks, and do whatever you can to fight. (Read more bear attack stories.)
You might not call the residents of a country thats lost 575,000 lives and counting to COVID, one-sixth of the global total, lucky, but thats what we Americans are right now. Thanks to our wealth and pharmaceutical production capacity and some smart early decisions by a generally incompetent Trump administration, the United States has already secured enough doses of the three authorized vaccines to protect its entire population. Well soon be sitting on enough doses to vaccinate everyone here twice. The 237 million shots already given are driving infection rates, hospitalizations and deaths here way down.
(Newser)  On March 2, someone spotted an elderly man and woman wandering the streets of Lebanon, Tenn., and it was soon determined they'd somehow escaped the memory unit of their assisted living facility. Once the paira husband and wife who have dementia and Alzheimer'swere safely returned, curious staff at Elmcroft at Lebanon queried them on how they got out, as the exit has an electronic keypad with a code only staff members know. The answer from the "rebel retirees," as the Daily Beast calls them, was an unexpected one. According to a report from the Tennessee Board of Health seen by the Tennessean, the man said he'd "previously worked with Morse code in the military" and was able to listen carefully as employees entered the correct numbers into the keypad, memorize the corresponding sounds, and crack the code so he and his wife could go on their half-hour stroll.

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Per the report, the pair, who've lived at the facility for nearly two years, are able to carry out their daily routines there mostly independently, though staff helps and checks up on them. However, the report also notes that, starting in February, workers were instructed to check in more frequently with the husband, as he'd started engaging in "wandering and exit-seeking behaviors," per WBIR. The facility says it has since changed the codes on all of its exits, per a statement, and it has assured state regulators it will be supervising residents there more carefully from now on, according to state records. As for the man, who just wanted some fresh air, those records show he'll receive "walking time outside the facility with a staff member present." Elmcroft of Lebanon isn't completely off the hook for the couple's transgression: State officials are making the facility pony up a $2,000 fine. (Read more Morse code stories.)
(Newser)  Puerto Rican boxer Felix Verdejo turned himself in to federal agents to face federal charges Sunday night just hours after authorities identified the body of a dead woman as his 27-year-old pregnant lover, officials said. The US Attorney's Office said late Sunday that Verdejo was being charged with kidnapping and carjacking resulting in death and with intentionally killing an unborn child, the AP reports. A criminal complaint filed by the FBI accuses Verdejo of punching Keishla Rodriguez in the face and injecting her with a syringe filled with an unidentified substance bought at a public housing complex. It alleges he then bound her arms and feet with wire and tied a heavy block to her before throwing her off a bridge at 8:30am Thursday. The complaint states that Verdejo, who represented Puerto Rico at the Olympics in 2012, then shot at Rodriguez's body as he stood on the bridge.

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The complaint says a witness it did not identify helped Verdejo kidnap and kill Rodriguez. Rodriguez was found in a lagoon near the US territory's capital Saturday, a couple of days after she was reported missing. She was identified Sunday via dental records, Puerto Ricos Institute of Forensic Science said in a statement. Verdejo and his attorneys previously declined comment, and police said the boxer did not originally cooperate and refused to answer questions. Rodriguezs family said she was pregnant with Verdejos child. Keila Ortiz, the victims mother, told reporters that her daughter had called her before she vanished Thursday and told her that Verdejo was going to her house to see the results of a pregnancy test. I told her, Be careful, because he had already threatened her,'' Ortiz said. She said Verdejo had told her daughter not to have the baby, mentioning his career and family; he is married and has a young daughter.

(Read more Puerto Rico stories.)
(Newser)  Late last year, voters in Orange County, Fla., pushed through a "rights of nature" law, making it the largest US municipality to do so, per a November release from the Center for Democratic and Environmental Rights. The legislation basically gives rights to rivers, streams, marshes, and lakes throughout the county, as well as a right to clean water for residents. Now, an unusual lawsuit is testing the new law. The complaint filed against a developer and the state on April 26, on behalf of the county's waterwaysplaintiffs include Wilde Cypress Branch, Boggy Branch, Crosby Island Marsh, Lake Hart, and Lake Mary Janealleges that a 1,900-acre housing development in the planning stages by Beachline South Residential LLC would destroy dozens of acres of wetlands and streams due to pollution and filling, as well as 18 additional acres of wetlands where stormwater detention ponds would need to be set up, per the Guardian.

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Not only that, the suit claims, but residents would be at risk of polluted water due to runoff from the newly constructed structures and thoroughfares. The building of the Meridian Parks Remainder Project can't begin until various development and dredging permits are issued, which is what the complaint is trying to block. "Our waterways and the wildlife they support have been systematically destroyed by poorly planned suburban sprawl," says Chuck O'Neal of the conservation group Speak Up Wekiva, who will represent the waterways in court. "They have suffered in silence and without representation, until now." State officials are declining to comment, as is Beachline, though in a November application it said it would make up for dredging damage by purchasing federal mitigation credits. The CDER release notes that dozens of US cities, counties, and townships have right of nature laws in place, while countries like Uganda, Ecuador, and Bolivia have them on a national level. (Read more lawsuit stories.)
(Newser)  Many doctors have had to come to the rescue during a flight to help a sick or hurt passenger, but Dr. Dale Glenn's in-air episode last week was unlike most. "I've experienced this before, and usually they're pretty clear asking if there is a doctor on board," Glenn says in a Hawaii Pacific Health release of the "fairly urgent" announcement while flying Delta on Wednesday from Salt Lake City to Honolulu. "This call was not like this." What Glenn and three neonatal ICU nurses responded to: a baby being born to Lavinia "Lavi" Mounga, who was 29 weeks pregnant, per WUSA. With the help of Missouri NICU nurses Lani Bamfield, Amanda Beeding, and Mimi Ho, Glenn tapped into his wilderness medical training and patched together makeshift equipment to complete the delivery: shoelaces to cut the baby's umbilical cord, an Apple Watch to monitor his heart rate, and bottles heated up in the plane's microwave to serve as baby warmers.

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"We're all trying to work in a very small, confined space in an airplane, which is pretty challenging," Glenn says, per the release. The doctor and nurses rose to that challenge, tending to Mounga and baby Raymond for three hours until the plane landed, at which point EMTs rushed onto the plane and took over. A TikTok video that's since gone viral captures the moment when passengers are told of the birth, per the Washington Post. If you think the other passengers were shocked by arrival of this bonus flier, so was Mounga: She hadn't even known she was pregnant. "This guy just came out of nowhere," she tells KHON. Glenn and the nurses visited Mounga and Raymond at the Kapiolani medical center on Friday; she has since been discharged from the hospital, while little Raymond is "doing great" in the NICU, Glenn says, per the release. "Overwhelmed in the best ways," read a Saturday Twitter post geolocated in Honolulu, from an account that appears to be Mounga's. (Read more uplifting news stories.)
(Newser)  Earlier this year, Rep. Liz Cheney survived an attempt to oust her from her No. 3 position among House Republicans. It's beginning to look like the Wyoming congresswoman will have to fend off another challenge in the near future, again over her continued criticism of former President Trump. (Cheney was one of the few Republicans to vote in favor of Trump's impeachment over the Jan. 6 riot at the Capitol.) Coverage:

Versus Trump: On Monday, Trump issued a statement declaring that President Biden's "fraudulent" win will be known henceforth as "THE BIG LIE." Cheney immediately fired back on Twitter. "The 2020 presidential election was not stolen, she wrote. "Anyone who claims it was is spreading THE BIG LIE, turning their back on the rule of law, and poisoning our democratic system."

On Monday, Trump issued a statement declaring that President Biden's "fraudulent" win will be known henceforth as "THE BIG LIE." Cheney immediately fired back on Twitter. "The 2020 presidential election was not stolen, she wrote. "Anyone who claims it was is spreading THE BIG LIE, turning their back on the rule of law, and poisoning our democratic system." Her critics: The tweet comes as Trump's allies in the House grow increasingly frustrated with Cheney. Axios reports that top Republicans including Reps. Steve Scalise and Jim Banks have spoken out publicly. "This idea that you just disregard President Trump is not where we are, and, frankly, he has a lot to offer still," said Scalise. Banks was more critical, saying that he and others are questioning whether Cheney should remain in her role as GOP conference chair.

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(Newser)  A child pornography website with 400,000 users is gone, thanks to German federal police and Europol. The site, Boystown, had existed on the dark web since June 2019. Four German men, one who had been living in South America for several years, were arrested. Three were administrators, and one was a user who had joined in July 2019 and made more than 3,500 posts, the BBC reports. The site, which German police described in a statement as one of the worlds largest child pornography darknet platforms, had a forum and two chat roomsLolipub and Boystown. The forum was broken down into categories like Adolescents and Hardcore, and other disturbing headings.

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The Lolipub chat room entrance posted discussion rules including No disrespect of girls, and the instruction that users Cannot be rude, racist, or political. The German federal police announced Monday that the arrests took place in mid-April, and the men were caught with help from police in Europe, the US, Canada, and Australia. The site had been live since June 2019, Vice reports. The Boystown bust was far from the first such dark web site, and it wont be the last. Online child offender communities on the dark web exhibit considerable resilience in response to law enforcement actions targeting them, a Europol reads. In 2015, the FBI took over a similar site and ran it for two weeks in an attempt to identify its users. Another site with hundreds of users was busted in 2019. (Read more dark web stories.)
(Newser)  What do you do when your partner is struggling with something shes always been good at? A 79-year-old man in Alberta, Canada, went looking for help with just that question. His wife of 50 years could no longer see well enough to curl her own hair without burning herself, so he marched right into a beauty school to find out how to do it for her. Employees at Delmar College of Hair and Esthetics in Red Deer hooked him up. With a student and a mannequin to help, he learned how to wield a curling iron. Then they showed him how to apply her mascara for her, too. "Her appearance has always been something she has taken pride in and it's important to her so therefore important to him," Delmar College of Hair and Esthetics director Carrie Hannah told People.

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The man, who prefers to remain anonymous, did a little bragging about his wife, too. He pulled out pictures to show how beautiful she is, even boasting about her impressive 100 words per minute typing speed. The school posted photos of him learning the ropes on Facebook, and the post went viral. Its been shared more than 380,000 times, with thousands of comments like "True love, commitment, devotion to the person he loves" and "Bless him for wanting to help his wife with something that we women find so personal for ourselves and our emotional well being." Hannah called the lesson one of the highlights of her career, per Newsweek. The couple have been back to thank the school staff for their help, but the gratitude flows both ways. "We really needed some cheering up, and he sure did it," Hannah said. (Read more uplifting news stories.)
(Newser)  Saying it's not necessary for the state "to be policing people at this point," Gov. Ron DeSantis moved Monday to cancel Florida's COVID-19 protocols. He gave widespread coronavirus vaccinations as a reason, CBS reports. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says 15.5 million shots have been administered in Florida, which has a population of 21.5 million. Supply now exceeds demand, DeSantis said. The governor suspended local emergency orders by executive action, and signed legislation limiting local governments' ability to enact restrictions, per USA Today. The bill also permanently bans "vaccine passports," which DeSantis had done by executive order earlier. The legislation becomes law July 1; the executive orders take effect immediately.

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In explaining his reasoning, the Republican said, "I think thats the evidence-based thing to do" in a bill-signing ceremony in St. Petersburg. "I think if you are saying that you are really saying you don't believe in the vaccines, you don't believe in the data, you don't believe in science." Businesses will still be allowed to require masks and enforce social distancing. A House Democratic leader predicted confusion over what's allowed and what isn't. New cases of the coronavirus are dropping week-to-week in Florida, though thousands of infections are still being reported. Overall, according to Johns Hopkins University data, Florida has had more than 2.2 million coronavirus cases, the third-highest total in the US. The state's number of deaths, more than 35,000, ranks fourth, per CNBC. (Read more Ron DeSantis stories.)
(Newser)  A New Jersey teacher with strong feelings about the George Floyd case was suspended after he shared them with high school students in an expletive-laden rant during what was supposed to be an online discussion about climate change. Zlotkin, a science teacher at William L. Dickinson High School in Jersey City, described the murder victim as a "criminal." "I hear people whining and crying about Black Lives Matter, but George Floyd was a f-----g criminal and he got arrested and he got killed because he wouldn't comply and the bottom line is we make him a f-----g hero," he said, per NBC New York. Students say that after they challenged his position, Zlotkin ordered four Black girls in the landscape and design class to write an essay on "why Black lives should matter," reports the New York Times.

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Timmia Williams, 17, says Zlotkin swore at her and other students during the class last Wednesday and again the next day, when they didn't turn in the essays he had demanded. She tells the Times that she was so upset by the exchange Wednesday that she couldn't celebrate getting accepted to college that day. Mussab Ali, the president of the Jersey City Board of Education, says an investigation is underway and Zlotkin has been suspended with pay. He has also been suspended from his position as an adjunct professor at Hudson County Community College, reports CBS. The college says it is looking into his "offensive and derogatory language while teaching a Dickinson High School Zoom." (Read more George Floyd stories.)
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Recently, we saw that the failure to grow has led to New York losing a losing member of Congress, which will cost us vital political representation and the federal funding that comes with it. Only 89 more residents in New York would have prevented us from losing that congressional seat, fewer than the number of residents in a single apartment building. All New Yorkers will suffer because of this self-inflicted wound, but particularly the most vulnerable, as they are the most reliant on government support. It is sad to think that New Yorkers will receive potentially billions of dollars less from the federal government because a single apartment building was not allowed to be built.
Talking to The AM Show on Monday, NBR list editor Maria Slade said in the wake of COVID-19 the list had a few changes.

In previous years, the only financial threshold was $50 million in wealth. This year's list features 100 Kiwis and is divided into five industry groups: property, make and sell, investment, agribusiness and tech and services.

"What used to happen is the property guys used to really dominate because they are just so wealthy, so there's quite a lot of property people who haven't made it," Slade explained.

Among the noteworthy additions to the list is Rocket Lab founder Peter Beck. The upcoming float on Rocket Lab in the US has an estimated value of $560 million.

Bernie and Kay Crosby, founders of Hamilton-based Prolife Foods (Alison's Pantry, Mother Earth and Donovan's Chocolate), have also made the list. Other newcomers include Jonny Hendriksen, founder of video ad company Shuttlerock and brothers Chris and Stephen Harris, who sold their gaming studio Ninja Kiwi for $270 million in March.

Jucy founders the Alpe family have dropped off the list. The business went into receivership in November and the assets were sold to Colin Neal's Polar Capital.



Following are The NBR List's top 10 wealth creators for 2021, including the industry they're in and estimated net worth.

Graeme Hart - Investment (Rank Group - packaging, wood products and building supplies industries): $11 billion. Todd family- Investment (Todd Corporation - energy, Todd Digital): $4.3 billion. Goodman family - Property (Goodman Group): $3.1 billion. Mowbray family - Make and sell (Zuru Group - toys and consumer products): $2.5 billion. Sir Michael Friedlander - Property (Samson Corporation, Sterling Nominees): $2 billion.

Rod Drury - Tech and Services (Xero founder): $1.95 billion. Talley family - Agribusiness (Talley's Group): $1.2 billion. Sir Robert Jones - Property: $1.1 billion. Bruce Plested Tech and Services (Mainfreight): $1.02 billion. Jim and Rosemari Delegat - Agribusiness (Delegat Group wines): $1.01 billion.



Graeme Hart ranked number one



NBR estimates Hart's net worth at $11 billion, up from an estimated $10 billion in 2019.

Having left Mt Roskill Grammar school on his 15th birthday, Hart worked as a tow truck driver and panel beater before starting his first business at age 18, the NBR reports.

After owning a small printing business, he bought the Government Printing Office in 1990, before moving to Burns Philp, Goodman Fielder and Carter Holt. Now in his mid-60's, the businessman has built his fortune in the packaging and building supplies industries.

Hart is a shareholder of Rank Group Holdings Limited (Rank Group Limited), a privately held investment company for pactiv evergreen, Reynolds Consumer Products, Carter Holt Harvey Woodproducts and Graham Packaging.

In 2018, Hart reportedly donated $10 million to Otago University for a new dental school. He and his wife, Robyn support various philanthropic causes including Starship Hospital, Children of Fiji, and children of Pine Ridge Indian reservation in South Dakota, the NBR said.

The transactions which led to Hart amassing his $11 billion fortune could be seen as the culmination of a "highly leveraged acquisition strategy," the NBR said.

For many years, Hart's equity in Reynolds group was less than its debt - in December 2019, Reynolds carried debt of US$10.6 billion and its net equity was US$2 billion. After a decade of private ownership, in January 2020, Hart took most of the Reynolds packaging group public.

The initial public offering (IPO) raised US$1.2 billion at US$26 per share, leaving Hart with a 77 percent stake worth US$4 billion at the offer price. In the second IPO in September, Reynolds aimed to raise US$800 million ($1.2 billion) to repay $1.385 billion of debt. According to NBR, the offer raised US$574 million, valuing Hart's controlling stake held through Rank Group at US$1.88 billion.

Hart is said to own a considerable property portfolio, including land on Waiheke Island, houses in Auckland, a holiday home in Closeburn near Queenstown and Eori, a private island in Fiji. A superyacht, Ulysses, held through Cayman Islands company Felham Enterprises and a Gulfstream G650ER executive jet, complete the package.

Other notable achievements by Kiwis among the top 10 on The NBR List for 2021 are below.

Zuru Group bounces back after COVID-19

Siblings Nick, Ana and Matt run toy and consumer product maker Zuru Group, ranking fourth on The NBR List. Based in Hong Kong, the business reportedly suffered mass disruption and lost sales in February, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Despite this, NBR estimates annual sales to be upwards of $1 billion over the year, with growth up around a third on 2019. The family reportedly supports a number of charities, including Starship, Unicef, the Salvation Army, Kids Can and Foodbank, along with various causes in China.

Talley's Group recognised among New Zealand's largest food processors

Ranked seven on The NBR List, Talley's Group is among New Zealand's largest food processors, including seafood, frozen vegetables, potato products, icecream, meat and dairy products.

Founded in 1936 by Ivan Peter Talijancich (Ivan Talley) and based in Motueka, Talley's employs around 7500 staff. A takeover of Singapore's Olam International earlier this year saw Talley's increase its share of Open Country Dairy to around 92 percent. The whole milk powder exporter reported revenue of NZ$1.6 billion in the 2020 financial year. It's also expanded its ice cream business, having bought the Deep South brand from Synlait Milk in October 2020.



Talley's delivered frozen vegetables to the Salvation Army to help families during COVID-19. It also supports Snowden's Bush Trust, aimed at preserving native lowland bush in the Waimea Plains.



Coming in last of the top 10, Delegat Group sold a record number of cases of wine during COVID-19. In the year to June 30, 2020, 3.3 million cases of Delegat wines were sold, up 9 percent, making it New Zealand's number one wine exporter.
The organisation is now calling for Health Minister Andrew Little to immediately intervene and instigate a Royal Commission of Inquiry.

Tolich, who is also a Patient Voice Aotearoa trustee, said she never dreamed this would be the outcome of her trying to help children get life-saving drugs.

She said Kiwi kids with cancer should continue to receive the very best treatment options, but there should be equal help for children with other conditions.

"All children deserve equal consideration and yet, there's a whole primary school class worth of kids who are essentially being picked to die," she said.

"If a child with SMA can access treatment, then the likelihood of their lives being cut short diminishes drastically and in fact, many will go on and live a healthy and long life. It is unconscionable that rather than Pharmac addressing the inequity by funding available (and highly rated and prioritised by Pharmac's own technical team) medicines for children with SMA, they have taken the shocking preference of looking to curtail treatment options for children with cancer so that they cannot be accused of discrimination."
A 33-year-old man has been arrested after a threat led to the evacuation and search of two ferries berthed in Picton.

Police reported the threat on Monday morning and launched an investigation along with specialist groups.

They evacuated the Bluebridge and Interislander ferries and terminal buildings while the search was carried out.
There have been four new cases of COVID-19 detected in managed isolation in the past two days and none in the community, the Ministry of Health said on Sunday.

There is also a new historical case - not considered to be infectious.

Four previously reported cases have recovered bringing the total number of active cases in New Zealand to 24.

On Friday 4843 tests were processed, and 3257 were processed on Saturday, the ministry said. The seven-day rolling average up to yesterday is 3,729 tests processed and the total number of tests processed to date is 2,026,948.

The Ministry of Health also provided an update on Western Australia - where three community cases of COVID-19 were detected on Saturday, forcing quarantine-free travel to be temporarily suspended.

"Western Australian health officials have advised a worker at a Perth managed isolation facility had tested positive for COVID-19, along with two of their housemates," the ministry said in a statement.

"The Ministry of Health carried out a rapid public health assessment on the impact for New Zealand last night and, after working with airlines, all direct passenger flights from Perth to New Zealand were paused."

Western Australia health officials have yet to make a decision on implementing further restrictions and are meeting on Sunday morning to determine this.

Due to the time difference with Western Australia, further information is expected to be released about this later on Sunday.
Speaking to The AM Show on Monday, mum Amanda Key said her young daughter Jayden, who attends one of the schools currently covered by the Government's scheme, is enjoying the variety of meals.

"It's made a difference in a lot of areas. Kids get a variety of lunches every day, [such as] a meatball sub - to be honest, I'm never going to get up and make Jayden a meatball sub in the morning," Key said.

"And it's the social change. Everyone's eating the same lunch, everyone gets the opportunity to have lunch - so there's no judgement there. It's yummy and she gets to try different things. We're really grateful, actually."

Jayden agreed, noting the meatball sub and chicken katsu are her personal favourites.

"My favourite is the meatball sub, because it's like eating Subway," she said.

Jayden's school has altered its timetable so students have 40 minutes of play before sitting down for lunch, which they eat together while the teacher reads a story. Key said the structuring reduces waste as the children are hungry by the time lunch rolls around, with everyone finishing their meals.

The scheme is also beneficial for the families, Key said, acknowledging that parenting is "hard enough" without making nutritional and balanced lunches each day.

"Being a parent is hard enough, so any help is awesome. I'm not going to complain - I'm never going to get up and make teriyaki chicken with corn and rice for lunch - so if I know she's getting a range of food and I know it's healthy and going to get her through her day, I'm all for it."
While their potent venom is likely to cause a scare - a single bite is so toxic it can cause paralysis or even death - no one is known to have been bitten by one in New Zealand, and they are unlikely to lash out without provocation.

"A bite from one is likely to be fatal without access to snake antivenom. However, bites from them are extremely rare because their fangs are small and located at the back of their mouths," Duffy said.

"In addition, yellow-bellied sea snakes are not adapted to life on land and those found ashore are usually injured or moribund from thermal shock."

Even so, Duffy recommends anyone who spots a sea snake keep well away.

"Anyone finding a sea snake should avoid handling it, and if possible photograph and report it to the Department of Conservation."

Unfortunately for this particular snake, it's highly unlikely it will survive as it's pelagic, so can't live on land. DoC says any yellow-bellied sea snake that beaches itself will "almost certainly be dead or dying".

A spokesperson for the Ministry for Primary Industries' biosecurity department said it hadn't been notified about this particular detection.

"Sea snakes (including the yellow bellied sea-snake) are carried to New Zealand waters on warm currents from Australia and the Pacific Islands," a Biosecurity NZ spokesperson told Newshub.

"They do not represent a biosecurity risk as they are considered native species under the Wildlife Act 1953. As native species, they fall under the jurisdiction of the Department of Conservation.

"MPI receives two or three notifications about sea snakes each year. Most of these records represent snakes washed ashore after heavy storms. We pass on this information to DoC for their records."


"Ultimately we of course have an obligation after the fact that New Zealand was signed up to the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in 2010," Ardern said.

"In 2014 there was an agreement that there'd then be concrete action around implementation. So for the past six years there's been that obligation but not a lot of work has gone on."

Ardern said the Government now has an obligation to look at what implementing the declaration means for New Zealand, "and we'll undertake that process and very openly".

Ardern already ruled out the prospect of a separate Maori Parliament when she was asked about it last month by ACT leader David Seymour.

Collins said Ardern needs to be clear about what other parts of the report Labour intends to act on, since it has already acted on a Maori Health Authority and Maori wards in local government.

"We've already seen the Government press ahead with a Maori Health Authority that will have veto power over the entire health system, so ministers have clearly read the report."

The Maori Health Authority is part of the Government's huge health sector shake-up announced last month. All District Health Boards (DHBs) will be scrapped and consolidated into a new entity called Health NZ, which will operate in collaboration with the Maori Health Authority.

Ardern said the Maori Health Authority is necessary to address negative health outcomes for Maori.

"Our view is that if we are going to see change in health outcomes in New Zealand, where Maori frankly die younger in this country, we do have to make sure that our services work for every New Zealander, be they European, be they Asian, be they Pacific, be they Maori - we need to make sure those services work."

Ardern said the Maori Health Authority "will have the ability to have a voice that has to be heard and we will put in place a mechanisms where if there is a difference of opinion that we can resolve those".
Significantly - and in another example of careful speechcraft - Ardern's speech today used the term "Indo-Pacific" to refer to the Asia-Pacific. The Indo-Pacific phrasing has been pushed heavily by the US and Australian foreign policy establishment since at least 2013 as a less-than-subtle way of signalling a new approach to considering the region. In New Zealand, the term only came into more common use more recently, when it was used by Winston Peters under his more China-critical "Pacific reset" agenda.

For a domestic New Zealand audience, Ardern's emphasis of an "independent foreign policy" in the speech will play well. The stance builds upon and calls to mind a pre-existing Labour foreign policy legacy. Its pedigree includes the tripartite of events that took place under the Fourth Labour Government in the 1980s - the introduction of a nuclear-free policy in 1984, the sinking of the Rainbow Warrior in Auckland Harbour in 1985 and New Zealand's suspension by the United States from the Anzus defence alliance in 1986.

But Ardern's new positioning also recalls the foreign policy line of her immediate Labour predecessor Helen Clark under the Fifth Labour Government. Under Clark, New Zealand became the first Western country to sign a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with China in 2008. But the Clark government also emphasised New Zealand's independence in other areas - such as through its opposition to the Iraq War in 2003 and by refusing to acquiesce to Australian demands over New Zealand's immigration policy in 2001.

Ultimately, Jacinda Ardern's first major foreign policy address of her government's second term was strategic and smart. The speech clearly met its main objective, which was the need to deliver remarks that would mollify the government's China critics. But Ardern and her advisors have also succeeded in delivering a message that will satisfy several other key audiences at home and abroad - including in Beijing itself.

Democracy Project

Geoffrey Miller is an international analyst with the Democracy Project, an initiative hosted by Victoria University of Wellington.
Brown and Ardern announced they were working towards a May commencement date for a travel bubble. Brown said the Cook Islands had suffered a 20 percent economic decline due to the loss of tourism.

The new travel bubble means New Zealanders will be allowed to visit both the Cook Islands and Australia quarantine-free, after the trans-Tasman bubble commenced on April 19.

"Two way quarantine-free travel is a significant step in both countries' COVID-19 recovery, and a direct result of both New Zealand and the Cook Islands' successful response to the pandemic," Ardern said on Monday.

"It will mean families can reconnect, commercial arrangements can resume and Kiwis can take a much-welcomed winter break and support the Cook Islands' tourism sector and recovery."

In the event of an outbreak, Kiwis will be brought home, Ardern said. This differs from the trans-Tasman bubble, where Kiwis and Australians must stay put if there is a lockdown and travel is paused.

Ardern confirmed Australians will not be able to use New Zealand as a backdoor into the Cook Islands. They will have to spend two weeks in New Zealand before travelling to the Cooks.

The Government is working through the final details for the deployment of COVID-19 vaccines to the Cook Islands and expect to provide further details on the rollout within the next week few weeks.

"Today we start our journey of recovery. Today we get back to business," Brown said on Monday in a joint statement with Ardern.

"Today with our joint confirmation of the 17 May, we give our people, and particularly our industry, the certainty necessary to institute remaining preparatory steps to once more welcome visitors to our shores."

Air New Zealand CEO Greg Foran says it's "terrific" to be opening the bubble between Rarotonga and New Zealand in both directions after four months of a one-way arrangement.

"We're certain our Cook Island neighbours will welcome Kiwis with open arms for a much-needed boost for the local economy, and we're looking forward to reconnecting friends and whanau who haven't been able to take advantage of the one-way travel arrangement that's been in place since January."

National leader Judith Collins says the bubble should be expanded to the rest of the Pacific.

"While this is a positive step towards reconnecting New Zealand with our Pacific neighbours, it is only a small step. The Government could, and should, be doing a lot more," she said.

"Several other Pacific islands, including Tonga and Samoa, have no trace of the virus in their communities, and the Government should be working towards granting these COVID-free islands quarantine-free entry into New Zealand."

ACT leader David Seymour says the Government has taken too long.

"The Prime Minister's paternalism of the Cook Islands has caused economic and emotional harm to our Pacific neighbours that will take years to fix," Seymour said.

"ACT welcomes the Government opening up to the Cook Islands and finally treating our neighbours like adults, it's just a shame it took so long and has taken such a big toll."
Worse, the plan creates an incentive for developers to demolish currently rent-stabilized housing. Under the 2019 rent law reforms, demolition is one of the few ways developers can still take rent-regulated units out of the system. There are an estimated 635 rent-stabilized units in 105 buildings in the upzoning area, mostly in four- to seven-floor walkups and lofts. Under the existing FAR (Floor Area Ratio) limits, there is little or no incentive to demolish them because any new building could not significantly exceed the size of the current buildings.
US space agency NASA has told Elon Musk's SpaceX to halt work under a contract it won to develop a lunar spacecraft, pending the outcome of challenges by rival bidders at the US Government Accountability Office, the agency said.

NASA's decision means SpaceX has to stop any work specifically related to the moon program contract until the GAO makes a ruling, expected August 4 at the latest.



A SpaceX spokesman did not immediately respond to a request for comment.


Air travel has come a long way over the last five decades. Before COVID-19, destinations increasingly became more accessible, with many just a single direct flight away.

That wasn't the case in 1976 when Singapore Airlines first began operating a service in and out of New Zealand


Two influencers have been detained in an Indonesian immigration centre after filming themselves wearing painted-on face masks, in deliberate defiance of local mandatory mask laws.

US-based YouTuber Josh Paler Lin and Russian influencer Leia Se had their passports seized and are awaiting deportation from Bali.

The pair filmed themselves painting a blue surgical mask on Se and entering a supermarket after she was initially turned away from the store for not complying with mandatory mask wearing.

In the clip, the influencers are seen strolling through a store with Leia wearing some blue paint as a fake mask.

"I can't believe it worked!" Lin can be heard exclaiming.

Police say it was "only proper" to deport the pair for breaking Indonesia's COVID-19 laws.

Jamaruli Manihuruk, who heads the Bali regional office for the Justice and Human Rights Ministry, said foreigners who don't respect the laws and regulations in Indonesia would face deportation sanctions.
Advocates are urging the Government to ensure every child in a New Zealand state school has access to a free and healthy lunch - and follow in the footsteps of several world-leading countries.

The Government currently provides free lunches to a quarter of New Zealand schools, but it mainly focuses on the lowest-decile schools across the country.

The AM Show on Monday launched its campaign for free lunches for all Kiwi kids and is backed by Children's Commissioner Andrew Becroft, who is "totally in support" of the initiative, which he said is proven to be beneficial.

"It's not out of left-field. Scandinavia, England, parts of the US do it. It's got a good track-record and it's proven to be advantageous - it just seems to me to be screamingly obvious."

Newshub looked into what countries provide free lunches in schools.
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

Police directorates yesterday urged citizens and residents to adhere strictly to COVID-19 measures to help battle the outbreak effectively during the holy month of Ramadan.

The directorates urged people to continue wearing face masks, restrict gathering to members of the same family, follow COVID-19 protocols at mosques and funerals, ensure social distancing in public places to protect society.

Violators of COVID-19 protocols will attract stringent penalties and legal actions, Police directorates in the four governorates said Until April 29th, the Interior ministry had carried out 9,128 awareness campaigns, booked 74,007 people for not wearing face masks and pressed 9,048 charges against people not maintaining social distancing measures.
HRH Prince Salman directs six more health centres across Bahrain to operate 24 hours a day

HRH Prince Salman directs six more health centres across Bahrain to operate 24 hours a day

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister has directed six more health centres across the Kingdom to operate 24 hours a day, bringing the overall number to nine.

The health centres include the North Muharraq Health Center and BBK Center in Muharraq Governorate, the Hamad Kanoo Health Center, Youssef Engineer Health Center and Jaw Askar Center in the Southern Governorate, Sitra Health Center and Jidhafs Health Center in the Capital Governorate, and Mohammed Jassim Kanoo Health Center and Shaikh Jaber Health Center in the Northern Governorate.

The royal directives were aimed at strengthening the development and efficiency of the Kingdoms health sector and the quality of healthcare services to all.

Dr Jalila Al Sayed Jawad, Chief Executive Officer of Primary Health Care Centers, affirmed that the nine health centres will be fully equipped to work round the clock, providing medical coverage for the immediate treatment of urgent cases related to family medicine.

Incoming cases would also be referred as emergency cases to hospitals, if necessary, as ambulances would be operating at some of the centres.

Dr Al Sayed expressed her thanks and appreciation for the diligence shown by Chairman of the Supreme Council of Health, Lieutenant-General Dr Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, and by Health Minister Faiqa bint Saeed Al Saleh in implementing the royal directives.

She also noted the importance of the successful joint co-operation between the executive and legislative authorities and their efforts to meet and exceed the expectation of citizens for enhanced health service availability.

The Health lauded HRH the Crown Prince and the Prime Ministers keenness on following up citizens health needs and directives to enhance the quality of medical services for patients.

She affirmed full readiness to coordinate with primary healthcare centres.
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

All passengers arriving from India to Bahrain through Bahrain International Airport, including those in transit who are six years old and above, are required to present a certificate confirming the result of a negative COVID-19 PCR test containing a QR code within 48 hours of the time of departure.

This is in addition to undergoing another PCR test upon arrival, and on the fifth and tenth day of stay, if residing in the Kingdom during that period.

The Embassy of India in the Kingdom is advising its citizens to follow the National Medical Taskforce for Combating the Coronavirus (COVID-19) updated procedures to avoid unnecessary inconvenience upon their arrival.
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa has praised the role of the print, audio, visual and electronic media.

His Majesty delivered a keynote address marking the World Press Freedom Day wherein he hailed their enlightenment, sense of responsibility, awareness and intellectual creativity. This years celebration, under the theme Information as a Public Good, coincides with the 30th anniversary of the historic Windhoek Declaration, he said, hailing the longstanding history of the national press and responsible media for their vital role over more than eight decades in spreading trues facts and information, and serving high national interests in total professionalism and objectivity.

He reiterated keenness, since the launch of the National Action Charter, on providing constitutional and legal guarantees to protect the rights of journalists and media professionals to express their views safely and independently.

He underlined their freedom to seek information and ideas and to receive and impart them without restrictions, as it is one of the most important rights in Bahrains democratic society, taking into account the respect for others rights and reputation and the protection of national security, health and public morals, in accordance with international covenants.

He said that the COVID-19 challenges demonstrated the importance of the national media role as an active partner within Team Bahrain, led by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.

He praised the national medias commitment to publish documented information in confronting false and misleading rumours and news, deepening societal awareness of the importance of precautionary measures and stimulating voluntary and humanitarian work.

This media role, HM the King said, contributed to spreading reassurance, preserving public health and safety for all citizens and residents, and highlighting the Bahraini honourable model in managing the crisis and mitigating its fallout in Bahrain and abroad.

He praised the Ministry of Information and all its personnel, who were able to harness all media capabilities and digital platforms to publish news and information of quality and credibility and to ensure the free flow of ideas and news and their circulation without limits other than observing the national conscience and adhering to the ethics of the profession.

He praised the ministrys successful cooperation with the National Communication Centre (NCC) and the Bahrain Journalists Association (BJA) to reflect the nations conscience, unity, and authentic cultural and civilizational identity, and the aspirations of its children to achieve sustainable economic and social security.

He commended the constructive cooperation between the executive and legislative branches of government to discuss amendments to the law regulating the press, printing and publishing, in a manner that meets the aspirations of the media and come up with a more advanced and comprehensive modern law that promotes responsible liberties and heeds the national interests in a society dominated by the values of justice, equality and equal opportunities.

He stressed the importance of the new law to keep abreast of the electronic media strides and to reflect Bahrains pioneering national achievements in digital transformation and modernisation of information and communication technology infrastructure. We directed to draw up a new and comprehensive law to combat hate speech, extremism and contempt for religions in expressing an opinion in all its conventional and new forms, he said.
Legislation before Congress contains many reforms, but the whole enterprise of policing needs thorough review and improvement. There should be better recruitment practices to weed out racists and other abusers, and more effective training, particularly in defusing tense situations and restraint in the use of weapons. We need to overhaul supervision and disciplinary procedures, undertake demilitarization of the police, and, where safe, utilize more non-police actors in cases of mental illness and the like. Rooting out racism in the entire criminal justice system, not just policing, must be a top priority.
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

Through various online platforms, the Kingdom of Bahrains educational process is progressing in the right direction.

In fact, the Education Ministry has also saved BD1 million from the value of textbooks worth around BD2 million through online learning brought about by the pandemic.

Answering parliamentary questions submitted by MP Dr Sawsan Kamal, Education Minister Dr Majed Al Nuaimi said that 14 YouTube channels were set up by the Ministry during the pandemic, in addition to the lessons broadcast on television.

Remote learning is being implemented by the Ministry as part of the Kingdoms precautionary measures to protect the health and safety of the students and the entire school community.

Dr Al Nuaimi stressed the Ministrys keenness to implement the directives of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, on the need to hold classes virtually during the current exceptional circumstances to ensure the progress of the educational process and that all measures to limit the spread of the coronavirus are in place.

He highlighted the Ministrys continuous efforts to provide education for all students, whether for those who choose blended learning, through in-person attendance and online learning, or for those who choose to study online through the e-content-rich educational portal, virtual lessons, televised lessons or lessons on the Ministrys 14 YouTube channels.

The Ministry has also provided support through its educational platforms that feature hundreds of lessons, academic activities, tests, past exams and model answers.

It is also using television and radio channels and YouTube to present lessons to all students, including those with special needs.

Hotlines have also been set up to ensure easy and open contact between all stakeholders. The Minister noted that Bahrain was mentioned three times at the UNESCO meeting held the past weeks when they discussed the experiences of countries in dealing with the pandemic.

We look with great pride in His Majesty the Kings royal directives to sustain the quality of education in the Kingdom despite the raging pandemic.

Thanks to the implementation of the third phase of digital empowerment, the Ministry has remained strong in the face of pandemic, said Dr Kamal. We value the electronic portals and the commitment of teachers to nurture the students, as well as the major role parents, are playing, to continue the success of our educational system."

During these exceptional learning conditions, efforts are being made to ensure the continuity of the learning process at classrooms, workshops and laboratories through various virtual platforms.

A special channel for the Gifted Student Care Center, within the official channel of the Ministry on the YouTube platform, has been launched to support talented and creative students in public and private schools.

Through the YouTube channel, the talents and abilities of gifted students are highlighted, as well as publishing their achievements at the local, regional and international levels.

But while students continue studying remotely, the Ministry remains committed to promoting the culture of reading books to build a students personality and capabilities.

New normal

Virtual learning will be the new normal for some time in the Kingdom. With education being thrown into disarray by the coronavirus, teachers are forced to teach their students from home to allow teaching and learning to continue.

COVID-19 has given teachers and students an opportunity to explore online teaching and learning when face-to-face classrooms are not possible. It is not an easy task, especially for teachers.

This is a challenging period for teachers during an extraordinary global situation. All of a sudden, students are learning remotely and teachers are facing new challenges they havent faced before.
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain School, a champion of cultural and linguistic diversity, set out a program to highlight the contributions Arab Americans have made in education, medicine, technology, government, military service, and culture.

The school builds on the formal recognition of April as Arab American Heritage Month in marking the special occasion.

This month, we celebrate the accomplishments of educators, writers, poets, and musicians who have promoted the Arab American heritage and pay tribute to their contributions to Americas rich diversity, Middle High School Principal Shana Seawright said.

Teachers have prepared a set of contributions by Americans of Arab origin and shared them daily with the students and the staff during the morning announcements.

The teachers also organised a competition open to all students to check their knowledge about the Arab world. Prizes were given to the top three winners.

The US State Department said in a release that Americans of Arab heritage are very much a part of the fabric of this nation, and Arab Americans have contributed in every field and profession. We mark National Arab American Heritage Month noting these contributions that are as old as America itself, Department Spokesperson Ned Price said in a video.

As the month of April coincided with the Islamic month of Ramadan, Bahrain School celebrated Gargaoon, a joyous occasion observed across Bahrain on the 14th evening of Ramadan.
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

A total of 10,863 virtual lessons have been delivered to students with learning difficulties since the start of the 2020-2021 school year.

Education Minister Dr Majid bin Ali Al Nuaimi stressed keenness on accommodating this category of students and supporting them in government schools during the coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis.

In a statement marking the GCC Day for Students with Learning Difficulties, which falls on May 3, Dr Al Nuaimi highlighted the Governments efforts and pioneering strides in promoting education for all.

He underlined the ministrys strenuous efforts to sustain online learning for this category of students as part of special education programmes, using e-learning platforms, YouTube channels, televised lessons and other social media outlets.

He stressed the importance of communication with concerned families of students with learning difficulties, adding that contact with relatives of special needs students had been established remotely 33,173 times.

The GCC Day for Students with Learning Difficulties was designated following the decision of the Arab Bureau of Education for the GCC states.
Missouris director of advocacy for the AARP said Missouri fared worse than other states in protecting its nursing home residents from COVID-19.

However, Jay Hardenbrook, director of advocacy for AARP Missouri, praised the state for prioritizing seniors when vaccinating against the coronavirus.

We have not been able to keep the virus out of nursing homes, Hardenbrook said. And weve lost nearly 2,500 staff and residents in nursing homes to this pandemic. And that is something that we should be investigating and deciding how best we can prevent (that) when the next pandemic ... arises that could potentially cost the lives of many of our older citizens.

Hardenbrook said many fled nursing homes last year.

If youre looking at the most dangerous places to live over the last year, nursing homes are one of those places, he said. Ive certainly been contacted by many members who are caregivers for their loved ones, who they decided to take their loved ones out of those nursing home situations (and) bring them back home.

An internal report from the Missouri Veterans Commission found the staff at a local home in Cameron failed to immediately isolate seniors with symptoms. Nursing homes in the St. Joseph area received a C grade, according to an independent service that ranks care facilities.

Late last year, 20 seniors died at a home in Gower, Missouri.

Seniors were prioritized in Missouri and were among the first in line to receive COVID-19 vaccinations. Hardenbrook said the AARP is switching its concern from vaccination rate  where the majority of seniors have gotten a shot  to staffing levels and the amount of personal protective equipment available at homes.

I mean were brushing up against 75% of nursing home residents and staff whove been vaccinated now, and that is a huge win for the state of Missouri, Hardenbrook said. Our concerns right now are less associated with the vaccines and the sickness and the death right now, which used to be our big concern. And now were much more focused on making sure that staffing levels are OK and that people have the personal protective equipment that they need.

A quarter of facilities in Missouri dont have adequate staffing, Hardenbrook said. Another concern: visitation. With vaccination rates high, seniors are eager to see their loved ones, and not just behind glass.

Making sure you can actually see your loved one, not through a window, Hardenbrook said. But also that youre able to have those security measures in place that youre only seeing your loved one, youre not interacting on a regular basis, especially unmasked, with other members of the facility.

Most homes in the St. Joseph area are allowing visitors, sometimes in a 45-minute time slot.
A lawyer for a man accused of double murder said a judge ordered a trial on a lesser charge to be delayed, clarifying that the defense team didnt request the continuance.

Garland Joseph Nelson of Braymer, Missouri, was scheduled to face trial on April 20 for stealing. Nelson was charged with stealing while he was jailed on murder charges in the July 2019 deaths of brothers Nicholas and Justin Diemel of Wisconsin. Hes alleged to have coerced someone outside of jail to take a tractor-trailer that wasnt his.

Patrick Berrigan, Nelsons chief public defender, argues a docket entry in the case falsely states the defense team asked for the continuance. Instead, Berrigan said in a motion that the judge ordered the trial postponed.

Counsel noted the court had allocated all available seating in the courtroom to (potential jurors). There was no provision made for any member of the public during jury selection, Berrigan wrote.

A current docket entry in the case indicates it was the defenses choice to move the trial.

Court gives defense counsel option of proceeding with trial, that defense counsel had earlier requested or continuing trial to a future date, the docket entry states. Defense counsel informs court that the defendant does not wish to proceed with trial.

Berrigan argued in the motion that Nelson shouldnt have to choose between his constitutional right to an open trial and his right to a speedy trial.

Court gives counsel option of proceeding with closed trial, Berrigans proposed docket entry states.

When Nelson refused, Berrigan said it was the judges choice to move the trial date. Its unclear when Nelsons trial for stealing now will take place. No future date has been scheduled.

Both the media and the victims advocate were kept outside the courtroom

Nelson will face a separate trial for murder in June of 2022.

Attorneys spar

over informant

While the stealing trial remains on ice, attorneys for the state and defense sparred in court documents over how much hearsay evidence should be admitted.

It is expected that Maj. Kirkendoll will testify that he had gotten information from an informant that the defendant was looking for price information on a semi-tractor truck ... shortly before the truck in question was stolen, prosecutors wrote in a motion. Based on that information... (Kirkendoll) retrieved the defendants jail calls for the time period leading up to the theft.

Prosecutors argue Kirkendoll should be allowed to testify about the informant, otherwise the jury may speculate on why Nelson was in jail.
A 3-D software program employed by the St. Joseph Police Department has been so useful in mapping crime scenes that another area law enforcement agency is looking to acquire the technology as well.

The St. Joseph Police Department has been using FARO 3-D software to map crime scenes for a few years. Now the Buchanan County Sheriffs Office is considering purchasing it as well.

St. Joseph Police Detective Tim Schweder, who has been working with the software since 2015, said he can use the system to create immersive layouts, not just two-dimensional diagrams.

Its like your crime scenes a Hot Wheel and you pick it up, he said. You pick it up and look at whatever angle you want to look at it and see what occurred. With the FARO program, I can add in computer animation stuff so I can put in an opposable dummy to show where a shooter might have been.

Noting the police departments success is important for Buchanan County Sheriffs Office as it applies for grants to help with the $60,000 to $80,000 price tag of the software. Having the 3-D program would be especially helpful since the department often assists smaller surrounding agencies, Sheriff Bill Puett said.

Assisting other agencies is paramount, he said. We want to take care of the citizens in all areas of Northwest Missouri and thats just doing the right thing. Smaller agencies are limited with the resources, equipment, training, you know, and some of those things.

The newest version of FARO would make it easier to view files in court and scan outdoor crime scenes. The softwares evolution is exciting, Schweder said.

Its very interesting where were at right now as a department with this newer technology because were still just in the baby steps of where this is at, he said. Ive seen articles, like in Japan theyre doing virtual reality in the courtroom.

The updates are part of why Puett said he wants to purchase the software now.

We do a lot of outdoor crime stuff, so we had been kind of waiting for the technology to get better, he said. Its gotten there. When you can put that into a crime scene and do the in-depth stuff that the FARO system can do, its phenomenal.

Even five years ago Schweder was blown away by what the software allowed him to do, he said.

I was just amazed by what it could do, he said. The 3-D database that it had in it, already built in with the cars and the opposable dummies, and the different tools and the evidence even. It has evidence items that are pre-programmed in there that I can use.

Schweder can use the technology to track a bullets trajectory, import images for accurate representations of blood splatter and scan vehicles or entire rooms. He also can make time lapses for a series of events.

All of the features make it easier to reach the goal of accurately representing a crime scene, Schweder said.

Thats the biggest hurdle I have when I show up on a crime scene, is how do I get this to the courtroom, he said. Thats my first couple thoughts when I arrive at a crime scene, is how am I going to take this scene and present it to court?
Ive been a firearms instructor, gun safety instructor and Second Amendment advocate for 34 years.

I have trained thousands of people in public classes and trained more than 400 people privately in the past 12 months.

All reasonable persons understand that the status quo on our gun laws is no longer acceptable. Gun madness grips our nation.

Something should have been done in the early 1990s when middle-aged white men were going postal and murdering co-workers at post office facilities.

Something should have been done in 1998 when two Jonesboro, Arkansas, middle school students stole their grandfathers guns, went to school and pulled the fire alarm, ambushing teachers and students as they evacuated the building, one month before Columbine.

Something should have been done in 2013 when a lunatic murdered his mother, using her guns to commit a massacre at the Sandy Hook elementary school.

Second Amendment zealots claimed that that massacre never happened.

For far too long the loud, obnoxious Second Amendment zealots have had the soapbox and the microphone, making intelligent conversations about solutions impossible.

They shake their clinched fist and shout shall not be infringed, all gun laws are unconstitutional, and with their next breath they say there are 20,000 gun laws on the books that need to be enforced.

They spout delusional claims that Democrats want our guns to force socialism on an unarmed population, claiming that America will be like Germany or Venezuela.

On the cover of the first issue of Guns & Ammo magazine in 1973 it was boldly declared, Democrats are coming for the guns. That ridiculous narrative has dominated the pro-gun side of the gun debate ever since, and they always want to talk about Chicago.

I am not a Democrat, Ive only voted for one Democrat in my entire life; he was the most qualified candidate in a county race.

I am absolutely disgusted by the lack of intelligent discussion and the refusal to find solutions.

We have a mental health crisis in our country and lunatics are shooting people with guns they legally bought at stores. In addition to other lunatics shooting people. In addition to kids finding a loaded gun at home and shooting their sibling or taking it to school.

Its my Second Amendment, too, and the Second Amendment zealots who shout shall not be infringed do not speak for me!

Additionally, prevent unauthorized access to your firearms.

It helps prevent theft and misuse.
DANBURY  Wilson Hernandez, owner of La Mitad del Mundo restaurant in Danbury, is one of many in the state still struggling to keep his business doors open amid the pandemic.

Despite getting some federal relief, he and his wife are still working 15-hour days to keep their business alive and avoid accumulating debt or seeing their savings dwindle.

It has been a painful learning experience, Hernandez said, noting that it is exhausting and even after receiving aid from the government, some days its difficult for him to know what will come of tomorrow.

Monday morning Hernandez was visited by U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal, who has been stopping at restaurants across Connecticut to discuss the restaurant revitalization fund - a federal relief opportunity for restaurant owners hatched under the American Rescue Plan. Blumenthal praised the plan, calling it a lifesaver for small businesses.

The restaurant revitalization program  a $28.6 billion program  is giving restaurants funding equal to their pandemic-related revenue loss up to $10 million, with a special priority for women, veterans, and minorities, according to a press release.

Blumenthal, accompanied by Catherine Marx, a district xirector of the U.S. Small Business Administration, walked around the empty establishment with Hernandez explaining how the program works.

The fund, which began accepting applications Monday at noon, is open to all restaurants and entities such as food trucks, bars, caterers and breweries, that opened before March 11, 2021, Marx said, emphasizing that those who apply will not need to repay the money they get or go through a bank, as they would with a PPP loan.

However, the money is being given out on a first-come-first-served basis, and is exclusively available to certain groups within the first three weeks, while about $9.5 billion is reserved for smaller businesses.

For the first 21 days, the only people who will be funded are women, veterans and those socioeconomically disadvantaged, but all can apply, Marx said. Restaurants interested in applying can do so online at the SBA portal, restaurants.sba.gov or by calling 844-279-8898.

Each restaurants award would be calculated by subtracting the establishments 2019 and 2020 gross receipts, as well as any loans from the paycheck protection program, Marx added.

The money can be used flexibly for rent or mortgage payments, payroll, repairs, plexiglass barriers, food supplies and more. Blumenthal made it a point to say that although $28.6 billion seems like plenty of money, these funds are limited and distributed nationally, so he wants Connecticut to get more than its fair share. Restaurant owners such as Hernandez will be competing against others from Texas, New Orleans and North Dakota for these federal dollars.

Hernandez said he will apply immediately as he thanked Blumenthal for the information and despite his hardship keeping La Mitad up and running, he said the experience has been inspiring, teaching him to be more disciplined in his business approach.

This should not be only about me, my business. If the rest of the businesses on Main Street in Danbury can do better, part of that will benefit me too, he said.

Whatever I can do for my business will help them. Its important for us in downtown Danbury to bring more people here, he added.
DANBURY  The city is one of 27 communities in the state to earn combined $13 million in federal grants to help get the COVID-19 vaccine to vulnerable communities.

Danburys health department expects to receive $970,000 that will allow the city to form better partnerships with organizations that will distribute and promote the vaccine.

Funds will be allocated to multiple organizations who will support community outreach, awareness and education as well as provide mobile clinics to administer vaccines, Kara Prunty, acting health director, said in a memo to the mayor and City Council.

The governor announced the grants on Monday, with Danbury City Council expected to vote on accepting the money during its Tuesday evening meeting.

Danbury is one of the communities the state prioritized to get the vaccine because it ranked high on the Centers for Disease Control and Preventions social vulnerability index, which looks at various factors, such as poverty, employment, housing, education and access to transportation.

The latest state data shows about 43 percent of Danbury residents have received their first dose, while nearly 26 percent has been fully vaccinated. Thats lower than the states rate and that of neighboring towns, but Danbury is doing better than cities like Hartford and Bridgeport.

Officials in Danbury have credited that to efforts such as targeted vaccination sites, multilingual messaging and social media outreach.

The grants are meant to ensure people in underserved communities, including communities of color and ethnically diverse communities, have equal access to the vaccine, the governors office said.

Our goal with the vaccination program is to reach out to every Connecticut resident, particularly those who have historically been underserved when it comes to access to health care, transportation, or other challenges, Gov. Ned Lamont said in a statement. Everybody deserves the right to access these lifesaving vaccines. We need to do everything we can to make sure everyone has an equal opportunity to receive this care.

Kara Prunty said Danbury plans to work with the Community Health Center, Connecticut Institute for Communities, RVNAhealth, Communication Action Agency and United Way of Western Connecticut to bring vaccines to Danburys most vulnerable neighborhoods.

Danbury may use the money to hire community health workers, door-to-door canvassers, call center staff, and data analysis and technical support, she said.

The money may be used through Aug. 31, she said. No local match is required.

The health department is also asking City Council to allow it to apply for an extension to a grant that has covered COVID contact tracing, education and vaccinations.

Previously, Danbury received a $125,000 grant that expired at the end of February. Another $100,000 from the Connecticut Health Foundation is available.
The Redding fire district is looking to demolish an existing volunteer firehouse and build a new, contemporary facility.

The districts plans - already approved by the conservation commission - are currently under review by zoning officials and scheduled for a public hearing on May 12, according to Aimee Pardee, the towns land use director.

The Redding Ridge fire station, centrally located at 186 Black Rock Turnpike, was originally constructed in 1927 as a horse-drawn wagon facility and has become worn out over time despite several renovations and additions made.

The district initially began looking to make more repairs and tack on another addition but quickly realized the project would warrant more when a structural engineer told them the buildings foundation is falling apart.

By the time he finished going through all the different things that had to be done just to fix it, he said at this point, youve surpassed the amount it would cost you to tear it down, replace it and start over from scratch, Fire Commissioner Phyllis Magnussen said.

And a crumbling foundation is just the beginning of repairs the building needs, according to Magnussen.

The fire houses current status and needs

Beyond foundation repairs, Magnussen outlined multiple fixtures the commission has considered including replacing the air conditioning and heating systems, refiguring the engine bays door heights to meet regulations requirements and making more room for storage and training.

Currently, there isnt adequate space for the volunteers to complete training. Whereas there are about 30 crew members that require training sessions, the fire stations training room can only accommodate about 20 people at most.

The lack of space has often forced the crew to get creative and train in other parts of the building. A similar concern exists for storage, causing supplies to be stored in different sections of the building.

Everythings jumble tumble on top of each other, Fire Commissioner Bennett Pardee said, noting that most supplies are located in the basement, a level that isnt very accessible.

Plus the buildings infrastructure and lack of space have spawned health concerns, Magnussen said. Firefighters often return from fires with contaminated equipment full of toxins and have nowhere to clean it out. With no place to properly vent it out, they typically take the contaminated gear home and clean it there, running it through the same washer machines their childrens clothes are run through.

Its [the firehouse building] served its purpose and its outlived its usefulness, Magnussen said. In order to do the job right, we want to put up a building that will last way into the future.

The districts plan for a new, modern facility

Feeling as though there were limited options, the fire district hired an architect, Jeff Mose, to draw up plans for a new fire station.

Mose and the districts attorney, Frank Scinto represented them in a zoning meeting on April 14 and laid out their proposal to the board members reiterating that the aging structure is non-conforming in a variety of ways.

We looked very hard at trying to reuse the existing building as a renovation project, and the existing foundations, we determined would not be compatible with any current seismic loading or industry standards for standard building practices today, Mose explained to the board.

One of the obstacles planners had to overcome was the small lot the structure sits on. The parcel was less than an acre until the district received a land donation from an abutting property and purchased one more piece of land, which allowed them to grow the property to a 1.25 acres, according to Scinto.

The current building is composed of three undersized apparatus spaces with the first level housing a training area and administrative lodge, the second floor serving as a multi-purpose room and the lower level being used for storage, Mose said.

Under Moses new design the firehouse would undergo an extreme makeover, being transformed into a fully compliant, New England farmhouse-style building with modern amenities. As it stands the current building takes up about 8,800 square feet and Moses model consumes 15,000 square feet.

He said areas for the firehouses daily functions will be kind of segregated from the administrative area, which he demonstrated with a 3D animation.

Moses blueprint detailed a four-day apparatus room, that meets height requirements for current and future equipment protocols, in addition to devising a day room and dispatch center.

The training and administrative spaces would be put on the second floor along with overnight suites for crew members. Its existing lower level would serve as a storage area with an expanded mechanical space and supplementary training section.

Where the district stands in getting approvals

The fire district is in the early stages of the approval process for the project. Magnussen said they wanted to first figure out if their plan was even possible before moving forward.

At this moment in time, the district is seeking approval from the zoning commission and members of the public. Whether or not they can move forward with the project will ultimately be determined by Redding residents who vote either yes or no.

The district hopes to get all of the necessary permits before making the project quotable, Bennett Pardee said, although he made it clear that if approved, the construction would be funded by taxpayers dollars.

We are the fire taxing district and its our expectation that this will be funded by the taxpayers if they agree to do so, Bennett Pardee said.

Considering the district currently has zero debt, the thought would be to issue bonds or take a private note from the bank and finance the project with debt that would be repaid in annual installments with funds raised through taxation, Bennett Pardee added.

If the project isnt approved, Magnussen said theyll return to the drawing board and seek an alternative route, which is likely to lead them down an avenue of spending an awful lot of money to repair a building that no longer fits their needs.

Well persevere one way or another, she said.
The primary purpose of this bill is to make a more equitable rezoning system and provide data that would act as the basis to prevent the displacement of people of color from their neighborhoods. By analyzing metrics like median household income, median rent prices and the number of rent-stabilized units and other rent-regulated units before and after a given rezoning, a racial impact study would determine whether these major policy changes will exacerbate race and class divides, leave them unchanged or begin to shrink them.
OTTAWA, ON, May 3, 2021 /CNW/ - The global COVID-19 pandemic has been devastating for Canada's seniors, especially those living in long-term care homes. On top of this crisis, too many seniors are worried about their retirement savings running out and concerned about being able to live independently in their own homes. The Government of Canada will learn the hard lessons of this pandemic and take further action to protect the health and safety of Canadian seniors, while also supporting a retirement that is free from financial worry and provides a better quality of life.

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today highlighted Budget 2021 measures that will raise benefits for seniors and put more money in their pockets, make sure those in long-term care live in safe and dignified conditions, and help them lead more healthy and independent lives.

To give more than three million seniors greater financial security and put more money in their pockets as they advance in their retirement, Budget 2021 proposes to increase the Old Age Security (OAS) pension by 10 per cent for seniors 75 and over as of July 2022. It also proposes a one-time payment of $500 in August 2021 to OAS pensioners who will be 75 or over as of June 30, 2022.

The government is also fulfilling its commitment to ensure the tragedies that took place in long-term care homes across the country this year never happen again. Budget 2021 intends to ensure a high standard in long-term care homes with $3 billion in funding over five years. The federal government will work collaboratively with provincial and territorial partners to make sure seniors in long-term care homes live in safe and dignified conditions.

To support the independence of seniors who live at home, Budget 2021 proposes to launch the Age Well at Home Initiative. This new initiative will assist community-based organizations in providing support to seniors  such as matching seniors with volunteers who can help with meal preparations, home maintenance, daily errands, yard work, and transportation  and will allow them to live independently in their homes for longer.

These measures build on the work that the government has been doing over the past year, and since 2015, to support Canadian seniors and help them retire in dignity after a lifetime of hard work. The Government of Canada will continue to take additional actions to better support seniors, and improve their quality of life, now and into the future.

Quotes

"The COVID-19 pandemic has taken a devastating toll on Canada's seniors and exposed systemic issues in long-term care homes across the country. Through Budget 2021, we will boost Old Age Security benefits, help implement new standards for long-term care, and give more seniors, and their families, the support they need as we recover and rebuild from the pandemic."

 The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

"While finishing the fight, Canada must also learn some painful lessons from this pandemic. Better support and protections for our seniors, particularly those in long-term care facilities, is essential. The past year has been difficult, but better days are ahead. Until then, the Government of Canada will do whatever it takes to keep Canadians safe. With our investments in Budget 2021, we will ensure that our seniors receive the support they need, now and in the years to come."

 The Hon. Chrystia Freeland, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance

"As seniors age, their health and home care costs rise, all the while they are more likely to be unable to work, have disabilities or be widowed. Through Budget 2021, the government proposes to help address these pressures by increasing the Old Age Security pension for seniors aged 75 and up, strengthening Canadians' financial security and peace of mind later in life. We're also supporting seniors who want to live in their homes as long as possible. Budget 2021 proposes a new initiative to provide practical support to low-income and otherwise vulnerable seniors that helps them age well at home."

 The Hon. Deb Schulte, Minister of Seniors

Quick Facts

Budget 2021 proposes to provide $41.3 million over six years, and $7.7 million ongoing, starting in 2021-22, for Statistics Canada to improve data infrastructure and data collection on supportive care, primary care, and pharmaceuticals.

over six years, and ongoing, starting in 2021-22, for Statistics Canada to improve data infrastructure and data collection on supportive care, primary care, and pharmaceuticals. Budget 2021 also proposes to provide additional funding of $100 million over two years, starting in 2021-22, to Employment and Social Development Canada to triple funding for the Enabling Accessibility Fund and support small and mid-sized projects with not-for-profit organizations, women's shelters, child care centres, small municipalities, Indigenous organizations, territorial governments, small businesses, and businesses of all sizes. This would help offset the costs of renovations, retrofits, and accessible technologies in workplaces by supporting project activities that create or improve accessibility features, such as ramps to help improve access for people with wheelchairs or walkers.

over two years, starting in 2021-22, to Employment and Social Development Canada to triple funding for the Enabling Accessibility Fund and support small and mid-sized projects with not-for-profit organizations, women's shelters, child care centres, small municipalities, Indigenous organizations, territorial governments, small businesses, and businesses of all sizes. This would help offset the costs of renovations, retrofits, and accessible technologies in workplaces by supporting project activities that create or improve accessibility features, such as ramps to help improve access for people with wheelchairs or walkers. Since the pandemic began, community service non-profit and charitable organizations have struggled to provide the programs and community building projects that Canadians rely on, including seniors programs. To help these organizations adapt and modernize so they can better support the economic recovery in our communities, Budget 2021 proposes to provide $400 million in 2021-22 for Employment and Social Development Canada to create a temporary Community Services Recovery Fund.

in 2021-22 for Employment and Social Development Canada to create a temporary Community Services Recovery Fund. Budget 2021 also proposes to provide $100 million over three years, starting in 2021-22, to the Public Health Agency of Canada to support projects for innovative mental health interventions for populations disproportionately impacted by COVID-19, including seniors.

over three years, starting in 2021-22, to the Public Health Agency of to support projects for innovative mental health interventions for populations disproportionately impacted by COVID-19, including seniors. The Government of Canada has taken a number of actions to support seniors through the global COVID-19 pandemic, such as providing a one-time, tax-free payment to those eligible for the OAS pension, along with extra support for those eligible for the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS). And more than 4 million seniors received an HST/GST Credit supplement. Through these measures, we provided over $900 more for low-income single seniors and more than $1,500 for low-income senior couples, on top of their existing benefits.

has taken a number of actions to support seniors through the global COVID-19 pandemic, such as providing a one-time, tax-free payment to those eligible for the OAS pension, along with extra support for those eligible for the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS). And more than 4 million seniors received an HST/GST Credit supplement. Through these measures, we provided over more for low-income single seniors and more than for low-income senior couples, on top of their existing benefits. Since 2015, the government has provided supports to seniors, such as:

Increasing the GIS for nearly 900,000 low-income single seniors, lifting an estimated 57,000 seniors out of poverty.



Putting thousands of dollars back in the pockets of future Canadian seniors by restoring the age of eligibility for the OAS pension and the GIS benefits to 65.



Enhancing the GIS earnings exemption for working low-income seniors, to help them keep more of their benefits.



Ensuring that Canadian workers receive the full value of their pension by proactively enrolling Canada Pension Plan (CPP) contributors who are 70 years old or older and who have not yet applied to receive their retirement pension.



Reducing income taxes through increases to the Basic Personal Amount. When they are fully implemented in 2023, 4.3 million seniors will benefit, including 465,000 whose federal income tax will be reduced to zero. Every year, singles will save close to $300 and couples will save nearly $600 .

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This document is also available at https://pm.gc.ca

SOURCE Prime Minister's Office

For further information: PMO Media Relations: [email protected]

Related Links

http://pm.gc.ca/


TORONTO, May 3, 2021 /CNW/ - American Eagle Gold Corp. (TSXV: AE) ("American Eagle" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that effective today, May 3, 2021, it has begun trading its common shares under the symbol 'AE' on the TSX Venture Exchange. For more information on American Eagle please see our Investor Presentation and Introductory webinar featuring CEO Anthony Moreau:

American Eagle Gold Investor Presentation

American Eagle Gold Webinar

American Eagle is a Nevada-focused exploration company whose flagship asset is the Golden Trend Project, immediately adjacent to Nevada Gold Mine's (Barrick and Newmont JV) Goldrush deposit within the Cortez Trend. American Eagle is exploring for large Carlin-style type deposits within the same geologic environment as the adjacent Goldrush and Cortez Mines.

Anthony Moreau, CEO of American Eagle, stated the following: "Golden Trend is underexplored given its prime location, attached to Newmont and Barrick's operations. American Eagle has a clear plan in place to move the project quickly forward towards a drill program."

American Eagle is part of the Ore Group of companies and is led by a strong technical and corporate team who collectively own 44% of American Eagle's shares. The Company has a tight share structure and enough cash to fund the first phase of its exploration program.

About American Eagle Gold Corp.:

American Eagle Gold is focused on exploring its flagship property, Golden Trend. The property is located on the Cortez Trend, next door to Barrick Gold and Newmont Mining's Gold Rush and Cortez Mine, which host significant gold resources [and reserves]. The Company plans to drill and advance its relatively unexplored property and continue to focus on acquiring and advancing gold projects in the area.

For information and updates on American Eagle Gold, please visit: www.americaneaglegold.ca

Forward-Looking Statements

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the TSX Venture Exchange policies) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Certain information in this press release may contain forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the listing of the Company's Common Shares on the TSX Venture Exchange and the anticipated timing thereof, the planned work program on the Golden Trend project and the timing of the program milestones. This information is based on current expectations that are subject to significant risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict. Actual results might differ materially from results suggested in any forward-looking statements. American Eagle Gold Corp. assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements, or to update the reasons why actual results could differ from those reflected in the forward looking-statements unless and until required by securities laws applicable to American Eagle Gold Corp. Additional information identifying risks and uncertainties is contained in filings by American Eagle Gold Corp. with Canadian securities regulators, which filings are available under American Eagle Gold Corp. profile at www.sedar.com.

SOURCE American Eagle Gold Corporation

For further information: To Speak to the Company directly, please contact: Anthony Moreau, Chief Executive Officer, Phone: 416.644.1567, Email: [email protected]

Related Links

https://americaneaglegold.ca/


TORONTO, May 3, 2021 /CNW/ - Seven banks have stepped up to support international relief efforts as countries around the world address the surge in COVID-19 cases. Donations from banks in Canada will be directed to international relief organizations including UNICEF Canada, the WHO Foundation and the Canadian Red Cross to support urgent relief efforts now and in the immediate future to contain outbreaks that threaten to derail the worldwide progress made to overcome the pandemic.

The following banks are donating at least an additional $1.15 million, combined, to support the international relief efforts that this moment demands:

BMO

CIBC and Simplii Financial

National Bank

RBC

Scotiabank

TD Bank Group

HSBC Bank Canada is also supporting relief organizations through its Global Disaster Relief Fund.

"Banks in Canada have a long history of donating to support domestic and international relief efforts and the pandemic is a crisis like no other. These donations will support on-the-ground humanitarian relief as the global community continues to fight against COVID-19."

 Neil Parmenter, President and CEO, Canadian Bankers Association

Canadians who wish to support international relief efforts can donate directly to organizations providing on-the-ground support such as UNICEF Canada, the Canadian Red Cross and the WHO Foundation.

The COVID19 outbreak remains the most serious crisis Canada  and the world  have faced in recent memory. Banks continue to step up to help our country and the international community work through these challenging times. More information about Canadian bank announcements to support the response to the pandemic can be found at cba.ca/standingbyCanadians.

About the Canadian Bankers Association

The Canadian Bankers Association is the voice of more than 60 domestic and foreign banks that help drive Canada's economic growth and prosperity. The CBA advocates for public policies that contribute to a sound, thriving banking system to ensure Canadians can succeed in their financial goals. www.cba.ca.

Follow the CBA on Twitter: @CdnBankers

Watch videos: Youtube.com/CdnBankers

Follow the CBA on LinkedIn

SOURCE Canadian Bankers Association

For further information: Aaron Boles, [email protected]

Related Links

www.cba.ca


On the heels of an exceptionally tumultuous year, the seventh iteration of the GBTI study found that consumers' trust in brands is linked to authenticitytheir belief that the brand reflects their values. Previously trusted brands such as Amazon, Whole Foods, Air Canada and Tesla Inc., dropped in the rankings as consumers felt that the companies' values no longer aligned with their own.

"More than ever, CEOs are being viewed as societal leaders entrusted to take a stand on social issues, from climate change to addressing racial injustice," says Saul Klein, dean of the Gustavson School of Business. "As the world climbs out of the pandemic, brand awareness is no longer the currency of businessconsumer trust is the priority. There is a need for companies to rethink how they are driving positive societal change."

Over the past year, Canadian consumers have shown an acute awareness of whether a brand is truly compassionate in its activities, or whether their acts of compassion are opportunistic, and this distinction is reflected in the findings.

"Amazon may be past its peak in terms of brand trust," adds Klein. "While more Canadians have used Amazon services than ever before, concerns about the company's broader impact have resulted in Amazon dropping sharply in this year's study. Whole Foods had always prided itself on its employee culture, but the company's brand trust and advocacy scores plummeted in 2021, and employee relations may have played a part in that."

Early in the pandemic, many grocery chains offered hazard pay to their employees, only to discontinue the benefit a couple of months later. Whole Foods also faced numerous lawsuits from employees after it was reported that they were being disciplined for wearing Black Lives Matter apparel. In Canada, employees were initially prohibited from wearing Remembrance Day poppies due to the company's dress code policy.

"Trust in key institutions, in society and in business, has been eroding over the past few years," says Klein. "Consumers are more conscious of brand values and whether leaders can manage their companies in ethical, transparent and authentic ways that benefit both people and the planet."

Other Key Findings

Younger consumers are less trusting than older consumers. The GBTI study has found that millennials are less trusting compared to older generations. This finding appears to be due to the younger generation's inclination to assign their loyalties to proactive organizations who they perceive to be helping solve long-standing societal issues and contributing to making the world a better place.

Trust in media is at an all-time low. In the Spring of 2020, the media category saw a spike in trust as people tuned in at the beginning of the pandemic. Since then, the trust bubble has burst, with all traditional and new media brands (except for Maclean's Magazine) giving up most (if not all) of the gains they saw early on. Social media brands such as Facebook remained among the least trusted in the index.

Trust in Canadian telecom companies is on the rise, but it is still the second least trusted category. Past year-on-year results had telecom companies showing signs of trouble, with nearly all of the companies seeing a decline in their brand trust scores. Three of the big four telecom companies, however, saw significant improvement after COVID-19 struck as they provided critical infrastructure for both work and social interaction.

Brand Trust Index Webinar

Join us for a discussion about the Gustavson Brand Trust Index and what brand trust looks like for businesses post-COVID-19 on May 6, 2021. Guests include Klein; Jonathan Fowlie, chief external relations officer at Vancity; Jeff Walker, CEO of CAA North and East Ontario; and Jill Schnarr, chief communications officer at Telus.

This free webinar will take place on:

May 6, from 12:30 p.m. EDT

To register, email: [email protected]

See the full 2021 Gustavson Brand Trust Index for more information.

About the University of Victoria

UVic is one of Canada's leading research-intensive universities, offering life-changing, hands-on learning experiences to more than 21,000 students on the edge of the spectacular BC coast. As a hub of transformational research, UVic faculty, staff and students make a critical difference on issues that matter to people, places and the planet. UVic consistently publishes a higher proportion of research based on international collaborations than any other university in North America, and our community and organizational partnerships play a key role in generating vital impact, from scientific and business breakthroughs to achievements in culture and creativity. Find out more at uvic.ca . Territory acknowledgement

Follow us on Twitter: @ uvicnews

UVic media relations & services: www.uvic.ca/communicationsmarketing/media

SOURCE Gustavson School of Business

For further information: Media contacts: Saul Klein (Gustavson School of Business) at 250-721-6422 or [email protected]; Sasha Milam (Gustavson School of Business Communications) at 250-516-2611 or [email protected]; Krista Boehnert (University Communications + Marketing) at 250-418-5387 or [email protected]
60 years since Andy Warhol first drew a Campbell's soup can, Campbell Canada is paying tribute to the celebrated artist's legendary love for the brand through the release of four limited edition soup cans reminiscent of Warhol's iconic pop art. Taking inspiration from the late artist, the four distinct labels are available in the Campbell's Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup and Tomato flavours, and feature a bright, colourful aesthetic. The vibrant soup can label designs will remind Canadians that pops of colour and experiencing art can serve to lift one's spirts and that we can find brightness within our everyday.

"We are very excited about collaborating with The Andy Warhol Foundation on this pop art initiative and celebrating the enduring and inspiring relationship Andy Warhol had with Campbell's soup," said Mieka Burns, Vice President Marketing at Campbell Canada. "These special edition soup cans serve to remind us that there is joy, warmth and light that can be found in simple things around us. We look forward to bringing this concept to life through our campaign by sharing examples of real life pop art inspired by the cans  there are always new and creative ways we can brighten up our days."

Andy Warhol famously believed that everyday items could be transformed into minimalist art works. Taking the essence of that philosophy and as an added visual element to this pop art collaboration, Campbell Canada has challenged several Canadian artists and influential content creators, to find colourful, everyday inspiration from the limited edition cans and produce their version of pop art-inspired content. Each creator will release their original pop art creations inspired by the cans on their social media channels this month with the hashtag #CampbellsxWarhol. A digital art gallery hosted by Refinery29 will be home to a selection of the unique works produced from the campaign.

"In 1962, Andy Warhol changed the trajectory of contemporary art by depicting Campbell's soup cans on canvas," said Michael Dayton Hermann, Director of Licensing, Marketing, and Sales at The Andy Warhol Foundation. "It is only fitting that we pay tribute to the enduring legacy of these two icons by coming full circle and bringing his art back to the Campbell soup cans that provided him with inspiration. We are proud to partner with Campbell Canada on this initiative as a natural extension of our ongoing relationship and we are pleased to see that younger artists and content creators continue to be inspired by his artworks."

Warhol's close connection to the Campbell's brand is represented in his iconic pop art movement, often imitating real life, from consumer culture to mass media and, in this work, the widely enjoyed Campbell's canned soup. The limited edition soup cans feature labels that reflect Warhol's pop-art style and use eye-catching colour combinations such as pink, orange, red and yellow, a colour palette that can add an element of brightness.

"Campbell's Condensed Soup and Andy Warhol's artwork are inextricably linked in the history of pop art," said Campbell Corporate Archivist Scott Hearn. "Warhol is said to have created his Campbell's-inspired works because he enjoyed eating the soup every day. We hope this collaboration will bring that same joy to our consumers and spark inspiration in a new generation of artists."

The four limited edition Campbell's cans are available now at key retailers across the country and were produced under license from The Andy Warhol Foundation, a not-for-profit corporation that promotes the visual arts.

About Campbell Company of Canada

Campbell (NYSE:CPB) is driven and inspired by our Purpose, "Real food that matters for life's moments." For generations, people have trusted Campbell to provide authentic, flavourful and affordable snacks, soups and simple meals, and beverages. Founded in 1869, Campbell has a heritage of giving back and acting as a good steward of the planet's natural resources. The company is a member of the Standard and Poor's 500 and FTSE4Good Indexes. A subsidiary of Campbell Soup Company, Campbell Company of Canada has a long heritage of nourishing Canadians since 1930. For more information, visit www.campbellsoup.ca.

About The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Inc.

As the preeminent American artist of the 20th century, Andy Warhol challenged the world to see art differently. Since its founding in 1987, in accordance with Warhol's will, The Andy Warhol Foundation has established itself among the leading funders of contemporary art in the United States. The Foundation has distributed over $200,000,000 in cash grants which support the creation, presentation and documentation of contemporary visual arts, particularly work that is experimental, under-recognized or challenging in nature. The Foundation's ongoing efforts to protect and enhance its founder's creative legacy ensure that Warhol's inventive, open-minded spirit will have a profound impact on the visual arts for generations to come. Proceeds the Foundation receives from licensing projects such as this contribute to the Foundation's endowment from which these grants are distributed. For more information please visit www.warholfoundation.org.

SOURCE Campbell Company of Canada

For further information: Laiba Fatima, Proof Strategies Inc., Email: [email protected]
TORONTO, May 3, 2021 /CNW/ - Chesswood Group Limited ("Chesswood" or the "Company") (TSX: CHW), a North American commercial equipment finance provider for small and medium-sized businesses, is pleased to announce that it has completed the merger of its subsidiary Blue Chip Leasing with Vault Credit Corporation, which was previously announced on April 8th, 2021. Both organizations received the necessary approvals from their funding partners and are excited to serve the market under one group umbrella.

Chesswood will provide the merged entity access to its funding facilities to facilitate growth in its Canadian equipment finance portfolio. "We're pleased to complete this merger and welcome Vault's talented staff to the Chesswood family" said Ryan Marr, Chesswood's President & CEO. "We are also excited with the opportunity to work with Daniel Wittlin and his senior leadership team to continue growing Chesswood's presence in Canada's alternative lending market".

ABOUT VAULT CREDIT CORPORATION

The Vault Group of Companies is dedicated to delivering a variety of credit products to meet the diverse needs of its originator partners and borrowers. Within the Vault Group of Companies, Vault Credit specializes in equipment leases and commercial loans allowing for customizable financing solutions. Vault Credit serves small to medium businesses across Canada and caters to a wide spectrum of credit tiers, equipment types and industries.

ABOUT CHESSWOOD

Through three wholly-owned subsidiaries in the U.S. and Canada, Chesswood Group Limited is North America's only publicly-traded commercial equipment finance company focused on small and medium-sized businesses. Our Colorado-based Pawnee Leasing Corporation, founded in 1982, finances a highly diversified portfolio of commercial equipment leases and loans through relationships with over 600 independent brokers in the U.S. Located in Houston, Texas, Tandem Finance Inc. provides equipment financing to small and medium-sized businesses in the U.S. through the equipment vendor channel. In Canada, Blue Chip Leasing Corporation (which, as described above, has now merged with Vault Credit Corporation) has been originating and servicing commercial equipment leases and loans since 1996, and today operates through a nationwide network of more than 50 independent brokers. Based in Toronto, Canada, Chesswood's shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol CHW.

Learn more at: www.Chesswoodgroup.com www.PawneeLeasing.com www.BlueChipLeasing.com and www.TandemFinance.com

This press release contains forward-looking statements that involve a number of risks and uncertainties because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that will occur in the future. Many factors could cause actual results and developments to differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements (including the ultimate duration and severity of the COVID-19 pandemic and the successful integration of Blue Chip Leasing and Vault Credit Corporation). 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. Additional information about the risks and uncertainties of the Company's businesses and material factors or assumptions on which information contained in forward-looking statements is based is provided in its publicly filed documents, including the Company's annual information form and management's discussion and analysis of the financial condition and performance, which are available electronically through the System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval at www.sedar.com.

NO STOCK EXCHANGE, SECURITIES COMMISSION OR OTHER REGULATORY AUTHORITY HAS APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN.

SOURCE Chesswood Group Limited

For further information: Ryan Marr, Chesswood Group Limited, 416-386-3099, [email protected]

Related Links

www.ChesswoodGroup.com


Shouldnt that decision be up to them? Or should we instead plow ahead with our moral bulldozer, retracting books by Bill Clinton, Andrew Cuomo, Donald Trump and any number of other writers charged with sexual misconduct, while purging all of Woody Allens and Roman Polanskis movies from all streaming services, and Michael Jacksons and R. Kellys songs from the radio and Spotify? Heck, you might argue that this column  and its author  should be canceled, too. Im speaking up for books by some Very Bad People, after all. I must be as bad as they are.
RICHMOND HILL, ON, May 3, 2021 /CNW/ - Mazda Canada Inc. (MCI) today reported April sales of 6,912 vehicles, representing an increase of 480.4 percent versus April 2020. Sales year-to-date (YTD) are 21,954, which is an increase of 76.6 percent compared to the same period in 2020.

MAY 2021 HIGHLIGHTS:

Mazda MX-30, the brand's first battery electric vehicle, which goes on sale in Canada later this year, was voted Top 3 in the World for the World Car Design of the Year award.

later this year, was voted Top 3 in the World for the World Car Design of the Year award. For the second month in a row, CX-9 sales set a new all-time monthly record, and is the fourth consecutive monthly sales record.

CX-30 and CX-5 both recorded best-ever April sales.

MX-5 sales continue a hot streak, recording the second highest April total in 13 years.



April April YOY YTD YTD YOY

2021 2020 Change 2021 2020 Change Mazda3 1,103 262 321.0% 3,760 2,948 27.5% Mazda6 121 30 303.3% 536 305 75.7% MX-5 190 22 763.6% 508 91 458.2% Passenger Car 1,414 314 350.3% 4,804 3,344 43.7% CX-3 828 107 673.8% 2,338 1,568 49.1% CX-30 1,147 252 355.2% 3,556 1,718 107.0% CX-5 2,807 419 569.9% 9,244 4,945 86.9% CX-9 716 99 623.2% 2,012 853 135.9% Light Truck 5,498 877 526.9% 17,150 9,084 88.8% MAZDA TOTAL 6,912 1,191 480.4% 21,954 12,428 76.6%

Mazda Canada Inc. is responsible for the sales and marketing, customer service and parts support of Mazda vehicles in Canada. Headquartered in Richmond Hill, Ontario, Mazda Canada has a nationwide network of 163 dealerships. For additional information, visit Mazda Canada's media website at www.media.mazda.ca.

SOURCE Mazda Canada Inc.

For further information: Chuck Reimer, Mazda Canada Inc., 905-787-7079; Sandra Lemaitre, Mazda Canada Inc., 905-787-7167

Related Links

http://www.mazda.ca


BRIDGING FINANCE INC.,DAVID SHARPE, BRIDGING INCOME FUND LP, BRIDGING MID-MARKET DEBT FUND LP, BRIDGING INCOME RSP FUND, BRIDGING MID-MARKET DEBT RSP FUND, BRIDGING PRIVATE DEBT INSTITUTIONAL LP, BRIDGING REAL ESTATE LENDING FUND LP, BRIDGING SMA 1 LP, BRIDGING INFRASTRUCTURE FUND LP, AND BRIDGING INDIGENOUS IMPACT FUND, File No. 2021-15

TORONTO, May 3, 2021 /CNW/ - The Commission issued a Temporary Order pursuant to (Subsections 127(1) and 127(5)) in the above named matter.

A copy of the Temporary Order dated April 30, 2021 is available at www.osc.ca

OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY

GRACE KNAKOWSKI

SECRETARY TO THE COMMISSION

SOURCE Ontario Securities Commission

For further information: For Media Inquiries: [email protected]; For General Inquiries: 1-877-785-1555 (Toll Free), [email protected]

Related Links

http://www.osc.gov.on.ca


During the pandemic, the Regulars had to adapt their restaurant concepts to survive. They briefly closed their doors, and came up with a plan. Health and safety has always been their main concern; not only for their staff and guests, but for their community as a whole. Jeff recalls, "Our concern at that time wasn't on our bottom line, but what we could do to keep our community safe."

During the pandemic, the Regulars not only opened By Chef Nuit, a pop-up concept serving contemporary dishes with a Thai twist, but their second PAI location, uptown at Yonge & Eglinton.

Chef Nuit and Jeff also released their cookbook, Kiin, in October 2020. With a collection of recipes carefully curated by chef Nuit, who used the opportunity as a way to share her story and love of food with her children. The couple wanted the cookbook to feel authentic, which is why they returned to Pai, Thailand to capture the images. "It was important to me to bring readers into my world and show the places where I grew up so that they could truly understand my culture and my story of becoming a chef--not just from the recipes and stories but from the photography as well," Chef Nuit said.

"I've had my eye on these two for a couple of years now," says Steven Branco, STAMINA Group Inc. creative director and founder. "Their humility, hard work and dedication, paired with their incredibly delicious food, no matter what concept I've tasted, never ceases to amaze me. That's why when I was thinking about who I wanted to star our May cover, I just knew it was time to shine a light. Especially after having recently heard about their continued success despite the pandemic. But I had one condition...I needed full reign to upstyle them. I wanted people to see them under a new light. As the superstars I know they are. I wanted spring colours, high-and-low, sexy, and no sign of a power struggle--while also supporting local, and Canadian."

For the full digital cover feature, please visit: https://viewthevibe.com/the-regulars-chef-nuit-and-jeff-regular-toronto-power-couple/

Editor's Note: Please see supporting editorial visuals here.

Cover Photo Credit: The Regulars, chef Nuit and Jeff Regular, styled and directed by Steven Branco, shot by Nick Merzetti.

About View the VIBE:

View the VIBE, partially owned and operated by STAMINA Group Inc., launched in 2010 by Nicki Laborie as Toronto's first video restaurant and spa guide, later evolving into a recognized digital Toronto-lifestyle authority, producing fun, edgy and informational editorial content. Establishing itself as a voice for restaurant reviews, trending stories, and excellent VIBE videos.

For more, visit ViewtheVIBE.com or @ViewtheVIBE on Instagram--masthead also available at ViewtheVIBE.com/masthead .

About STAMINA Group Inc.:

STAMINA Group Inc. (STAMINA) is a privately owned media and communications company. Specializing in digital, STAMINA creates award winning digital-first content solutions that deliver unique brand experiences. Having supported, owned, operated or partnered with some of Canada's rising digital media brands including: View the VIBE, WanderEater Magazine , DIVINE.ca , OHLALA.ca , @ImagesofCanada , @StreetsofToronto and Haute Living Magazines. Led by award and contest winning creative and on-air lifestyle expert, Steven Branco ( @mr.stevenbranco ). Recently expanding the company with a new agency division, STAMINA Labs, offering client-direct full service digital marketing, branding and experiential solutions, backed by the same teams that support the digital media brands our clients and audiences know and love.

For more, visit HaveStamina.com or @Stamina.Group on Instagram.

SOURCE Stamina Group Inc.

For further information: Media Contacts: Megan van der Baars, Public Relations, [email protected], Mobile: 647.482.6396; Steven Branco, Founder, Editorial and Creative Director, [email protected], Direct: 647.689.7554 x 2
Elections 2021 results become clearer and verdict is out, it is time to act for the winning governments across the five states as India battles a deadly second wave. Here are some steps different states and Centre govt can adopt in order to control the cases of covid infections rapidly spreading.

As the high voltage Assembly Elections 2021 results become clearer and verdict is out, it is time to act for the winning governments across the five states as India battles a deadly second wave. Amid covid spike, states govt need to design immediate action plans to beat the curve and decrease the number of rising infections. The daily spike had reached its peak of over four lakh cases on May 1 but came down to 392,488 cases on Sunday. As the number of covid cases in India continues to rise, healthcare facilities are under severe strain across the country. Patients and their relatives are running from pillar to post frantically trying to arrange plasma, blood, life-saving anti viral vials and oxygen. These visuals coming in from all over the country have left the nations conscience in shock. The oxygen is one thing that needs massive ramping and ensuring supply to every Indian in need so.

Here are some steps different states and Centre govt can adopt in order to control the cases of covid infections rapidly spreading. Firstly lockdown is one thing, which is already happening with total and weekend curfews in some cities and in the coming days, we might be able to see a decline in the number of cases because of this lockdown. Secondly, we need to enhance our vaccination drive, yet the local bodies havent been given any guidelines or notification as to how this vaccination process is going to be. There have been so much of confusion in hospitals. Medical fraternity and doctors are still making the public and govt understand how the situation is very bad at the moment.

Thirdly, primary our focus should be about containing this surge right and figure how you go about it. We have to understand it in terms of say lockdown, or is lockdown a solution, or about micro containment zones or should you be looking at specific cities and specific areas where people are not allowed to come out. The state governments along with the Centre also have understand ways and solutions to doused oxygen supply, and stop the black market hoarding and the racketeering that is going on pan-India.

#BreakingNews | Pfizer donates USD 70 mn worth of its medicines to India to fight COVID-19: Co Chairman, CEO Albert Bourla pic.twitter.com/8kPfe30eQs  NewsX (@NewsX) May 3, 2021

Delhi HC begins hearing regarding supply of oxygen in Delhi hospitals & related issues. Senior Advocate Rahul Mehra, appearing for Delhi Govt, tells the court that Deputy CM Manish Sisodia has written to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh for assistance of Army to handle COVID-19 pic.twitter.com/ZS4AjZidu6  ANI (@ANI) May 3, 2021

Yesterday, Delhi received 440 MT of oxygen which is lower than the allocated quota of 590 MT. We need 976 MT oxygen daily as we are increasing the number of beds: Delhi Deputy CM Manish Sisodia pic.twitter.com/r6UW36zksN  ANI (@ANI) May 3, 2021

Also Read: As India battles the second wave, grim incidents of relatives and netas accosting doctors & staff surfaces; time to protect our doctors?
Editors Note: This is part of an ongoing series that features things to do in Upstate New York while we still experience the Covid-19 pandemic. Before venturing out, please take proper precautions and check for any changed business hours or availability. Safe travels!

Population centers have their own dynamics that create buzz about them and what they offer. But, in a place as vast as Upstate New York there are many deserving small cities and towns that usually are fortunate to just wind up on a list of hidden gems. This is one such, a look at small Upstate towns with big restaurant scenes.

Here are six excellent examples in six different counties spread throughout this huge swath of geography running from the mid-Hudson Valley to far Western New York. They attest to the variety available to visitors, especially those anxious to begin exploring again after a year largely spent indoors.

Speaking of that, please bear in mind that as the Covid-19 pandemic rolls on, restaurant hours may be erratic, some venues still are limited to takeout and delivery, indoor seating will be at a premium, and all have rules about customer and staff behavior and procedures. Best to call ahead.

A view of Downtown Jamestown, N.Y. on Sunday, Oct. 11, 2015.

Jamestown (Chautauqua County)

In New Yorks westernmost county, sparse hardly describes the population. Its county seat, Mayville, has a headcount of barely 1,700 and Jamestown, its largest community, is only in the high 20,000 range. Nevertheless, it has a culinary scene that often goes beyond the zeitgeist one would expect in an area dominated by the mellow lakeside lifestyle (there isnt a point in the county more than 20 minutes from open water, including Chautauqua, Erie, Findley, Bear, and Cassadega lakes).

Landmark Restaurant on West 4th Street has a white tablecloth dining room offering a large menu divided into such categories as boneyard (veal chop, beef Wellington, rack of lamb), bowls (steak, chicken Florentine, veggie, tuna sushi), and seafood (crab-stuffed haddock or salmon, sea bass, crab cakes, combo dishes). The Chop House On Main -- actually its on East 2nd Street -- is another white tablecloth spot, a steakhouse with a classic menu reflecting the genre. Downmarket, there is the Labyrinth Press Company, located in the historic Thurston Block on East 4th, that has evolved over the course of 14 years from being an espresso and live music bar to full-restaurant status, serving scratch-made vegetarian and vegan fare. It also operates the Brazil Craft Beer & Wine Lounge, with 18 rotating craft beer lines, upstairs. And, Lisciandros Restaurant on North Main Street is a popular breakfast and lunch spot that puts twists on familiar dishes -- sausage and eggs with stuffed hot peppers; pepperoni and provolone or meatloaf omelets; creamed potato and ham soup.

What used to be the home to the local newspaper back in the 1920s is now the waterfront restaurant, Mariners Harbor. Serving all the classic seafood dishes such as lobster, fish and chips, and clams, you can dine with a front row seat of the historical waterfront.

Kingston (Ulster County)

The states first capital (1777) is located roughly 60 miles south of Albany and 90 miles north of New York City, a good location to blend cosmopolitan culinary sensibilities with a more relaxed vibe in a place of barely 23,000 souls.

Any self-respecting Upstate town has its share of good Italian restaurants and Kingston is no exception. (Frank Guidos Little Italy, Savonas Trattoria, Stellas, LaFlorentina, etc.) But, it has so much more. Take Le Canard Enchaine, for example. It oozes French cafe ambiance to the Nth degree  classic posters, twinkling lights, tight dining spaces tucked into cozy corners, a good-sized bar, deft yet unpretentious service. And, best of all, wonderful French country dishes from owner/executive chef Jean Jacques Carquillat, 52, a second-generation chef from Chamonix, France. He promises Beef bourguignon and cassoulet always available, but do not miss his fricasse of escargot in a deeply flavorful mushroom and cognac broth flambe; worth the drive from anywhere. Located Uptown in the Stockade District opposite the historic Old Dutch Church at 276 Fair Street.

Some other options in the city: The chic Lola debuted on Fair Street last year, with a modern Italian menu (potato croquettes with a lemon-oil-garlic Sicilian sauce, short rib ragu over pasta, smoked brisket pizza) and imaginative cocktail list; the historic, stone-walled Hoffman House Tavern, recently purchased by its longtime chef Francisco Diaz, has antecedents in the 1670s and attitude in the 1970s (bacon-wrapped scallops, clams casino, London broil, steak au poivre, chicken francaise); chef-owner Albert Bartley got a James Beard Awards semifinalist nod last year in the non-Big Apple Best Chef: New York category for his work at Top Taste, a classic Jamaica eatery on Hasbrouck Avenue (escovitch style  fried then doused with pickling sauce  snapper or kingfish, brown stew chicken, ackee and saltfish, cowfoot and red beans or butter beans); Mariners Harbor, on the west bank of the Hudson River at the foot of Broadway in a former newspaper building, offers a comprehensive seafood menu plus its own brand-new in-house ice cream shop.

The Crystal Restaurant opened in 1925 at 87 Public Square in downtown Watertown, N.Y.SYR

Watertown (Jefferson County)

The population rapidly thins out as you drive north from Syracuse (population 143,000) to Watertown (population 25,000), about 70 miles away. Nevertheless, there is plenty of transitional activity from tourists heading to spots in the nearby Thousand Islands and along the Black River about five miles east of its mouth at Lake Ontario  and, of course, there is the sprawling Fort Drum military reservation and its 10,000-14,000 rotating inhabitants. All of which provides a solid customer base to support a culinary scene anchored by some long-running venues.

Entering the citys oldest eatery, the Crystal Restaurant on Public Square, is like walking into a lovely architectural time capsule (tiled floors, tin ceilings, dark wood booths and bar  essentially a polished version of what it was when it opened its doors in 1925 but with a menu reminiscent of the 1990s (finger food apps, a dozen salads and cold plates, basic burgers, standard sandwiches ... although the pies are a bit more imaginative, including strawberry rhubarb and raspberry). The fourth generation of the Sboro restaurant family operates a pair of long-run eateries  Arts Jug on Huntington Street that opened in 1933, and Sboros Restaurant & Chop House on Coffeen Street that opened in 1992. Both offer pizzas and other Italian dishes, along with such grace notes as ribeyes, rack of lamb, and roast duck. Less venerable but still popular: Spokes Craft Beer & Tapas, an atmospheric Public Square tavern offering just what its name advertises; the Bad Apple Saloon on Arsenal Street with a vittles menu that should be the envy of every drinking establishment anywhere (fried green tomatoes, bacon bleu cheese chips, battered banana pepper rings, duck bacon wontons, smothered flatiron steak, chargrilled St. Louis ribs, Rueben hot dogs, etc.); Colemans Corner on Lawrence Street looks more like an upscale rustic country inn than the Irish pub it is, but it has the tongue-in-cheek attitude of the genre (the menu offers the likes of a Four Course Irish Dinner: 3 draft beers and an order of fries).

Cohoes (Albany County)

A year ago, I wrote a story headlined Taking a ride on the Cohoes culinary express, chronicling the ongoing restaurant expansion in this small Hudson River city (barely 16,000 population) tucked into the northeast corner of the county that keeps drawing attention despite being geographically squeezed by popular dining scenes in Albany to its south and Troy to its east. Since then, the boom has only gained momentum, particularly on bustling Remsen and Ontario streets.

During such growth, one might expect duplication, but that is not the case. The newcomers range all over the place. A few examples: The Tiny Diney a shiny new version of a 400-square-foot greasy spoon that has been around for a century under various names; the Bye-i Brewing Craft Beer & Taproom that offers its own brews plus food brought in from neighboring restaurants; Cafe con Mel, a daytime cafe that is an outgrowth of the caterer D&L Hospitality, with a wildly global evolving menu  Filipino turo-turo buffet, Korean cream cheese rolls, Puerto Rican dishes, locally-made bagels; Teta Maries Lebanese, a traditional spot whose locally born-and-raised chef/co-owner, Brenda Hage, learned the recipes of her Lebanese mother-in-law and turns out the likes of beef kofta and shawarma, chicken shish tawook, meat and spinach hand pies, and pizzas topped with zaatar, awaki cheese.

Hazelnut Kitchen and other Main Street businesses use color to show off pretty architectural details.SYR

Trumansburg (Tompkins County)

This tiny, picturesque town southwest of Cayuga Lake has a year-round population of barely 2,000, but it has plenty of tourist traffic  people moving through the Finger Lakes, traversing the Cayuga Wine Trail, attending one of several annual major music festivals in non-pandemic times, visiting Taughannock Falls State Park (home to one of the tallest free-falling waterfalls east of the Mississippi River)  that helps support a healthy restaurant scene.

The upscale Inn at Taughannock Restaurant on Gorge Road boasts 180-degree views of Cayuga Lake from its airy dining room and offers an American-Mediterranean fusion menu, and it even has a food truck called The Black Diamond Express, named for the flagship passenger train of the old Lehigh Valley Railroad that carried passengers to Trumansburg via its Buffalo-New York City run from 1896 to 1959. Conversely, Atlas on West Main Street is the towns version of the growing popularity of activity eateries and vegan-friendly venues found in most of our major cities. Visitors can bowl on seven renovated 60s-era lanes and dine from a menu that ranges from burgers, grilled shrimp or salmon, shepherds pie, steaks, to a range of vegan- or vegetarian-sensitive dishes. In between those two polar opposites are such spots as Hazelnut Kitchen on East Main, a farm-to-table venue featuring local wines; Brews & Brats at Autumn View, a German restaurant on Route 96 offering locally sourced food, beers, wines, and ciders; and, the aptly-named Creekside Cafe breakfast and lunch spot sitting along Trumansburg Creek on West Main, offering numerous touches from other cultures such as a kimchi-gruyere panini, a Cubano sandwich on house focaccia, a shitake-black bean cheeseburger, and breakfast tacos and burritos.

Carol's Coffee & Art Bar on Front Street serves coffee, bagels, soups and salad, and sandwich platters such as The Van Gogh, Picasso and Monet. Walls are filled with local art, there are live music offerings, open mic nights and art classes.SYR

Owego (Tioga County)

This Southern Tier county seat village is on the western fringes of the Binghamton Metropolitan Statistical Area (population 240,000), but its a tiny part of that population center with a headcount of only about 3,500. However, its bucolic setting just off the Southern Tier Expressway (Route 17) makes it a convenient pause-point for motorists heading to or from the Finger Lakes or the many colleges in Central and Western New York.

The Owego Kitchen on Lake Street is a comparatively recent addition (November 2015) to the local food scene, but the building has been around since 1872 as a saloon, gaslight company, photo studio, grocery, and more. Its a breakfast/lunch/catering operation with an imaginative sandwich list (rosemary chicken, Jamaican tuna, jalapeno popper turkey BLT, etc.). The Cellar Restaurant & Bar On the River overlooks the Susquehanna from its Front Street perch. Menu highlights include a variety of smoked meat dishes, classic preparation styles for filet mignons and New York strips, and old-style surf-and-turf. MJs Bar and Restaurant, another waterside venue on Fifth Avenue, is a multi-cultural casual spot with a menu featuring such things as Greek saganaki, Mexican street foods, Vietnamese pho, Jamaican jerk dishes, and so on. The River Rock Diner on Route 17C slings standard diner fare along with Mediterranean dishes. Carols Coffee And Art Bar on Front Street has a plethora of original artwork displayed on bare brick walls, setting an inviting mood for its menu that features sandwiches all named for classic artists.

William M. Dowd, a longtime journalist, is the author and publisher of Notes On Napkins, a food-and-drink blog covering the Greater Capital Region and western New England, with seven zoned Facebook editions.

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Celebrate the moms in your life with a special meal. These restaurants are serving Mothers Day brunches and dinners, several with festive takeout packages if youd rather dine at home.

Little Pub, with locations in Fairfield, Greenwich, Old Saybrook, Stratford and Wilton, offers special takeout options, including a cook-at-home Mothers Day BrunchBasket ($40) with Belgian waffles, English muffins, eggs, sausage links and fruit salad. Add-ons include mimosa and Bloody Mary kits. A Mombox ($60) features a fully cooked ravioli dinner with house salad, rolls and individual red velvet and chocolate lava cakes. Details: littlepub.com.

LEscale, 500 Steamboat Road, Greenwich, offers Mothers Day brunch and dinner seatings, with specials like chilled Maine lobster martini, prime soft shell crabs and filet mignon. 203-661-4600, lescalerestaurant.com.

Bernards Restaurant, 20 West Lane, Ridgefield, hosts Mothers Day brunch and dinner with prix-fixe menus. Brunch entrees include lobster fricassee, eggs Benedict and French-cut chicken breast, and dinner entrees feature grilled filet of halibut, roasted Hatfield Reserve pork chop and beef Wellington. 203-438-8282, bernardsridgefield.com.

The Capital Grille, with locations in Stamford and Hartford, offers its full dinner menu on Mothers Day with brunch specials like lobster frittata, bone-in NY strip steak and eggs and an 8-ounce filet. A Mothers Day at Home package (starting at $165 for two people) includes a roasted whole beef tenderloin and North Atlantic lobster tails, salad, rolls, asparagus, mashed potatoes and dessert: flourless chocolate espresso cake and chocolate covered strawberries. thecapitalgrille.com.

Rive Bistro, 299 Riverside Ave., Westport, offers a Mothers Day menu with entrees like grilled salmon, duck breast a lorange, filet mignon rossini, branzino a la plancha and rigatoni with vegetable ragout. 203-557-8049, rivebistro.com.

The Fresh Market, with locations in Avon, Guilford and Westport, offers a Mothers Day brunch deal for four ($39.99) with quiche, bacon, fruit bowl, muffins, orange juice and a flower bouquet, along with a surf and turf dinner for two ($49.99) with choice of Chateaubriand or Chilean sea bass, asparagus, whipped potatoes, chocolate dipped strawberries and a flower bouquet. thefreshmarket.com.

Grammies Donuts & Biscuits, 971 Post Road East, Westport, offers a Mothers Day pickup menu with items like salads, quiches, coffee cake and a chocolate berry tart. grammiesgfc.com/collections/mothers-day.

The Wharf at Madison Beach Hotel, 94 West Wharf Road, Madison, offers a Mothers Day prix-fixe menu for $64, with entrees like pan-seared halibut, chicken saltimbocca, porchetta, filet au poivre and wild mushroom risotto. A Mothers Day to-go package for four or eight ($130; $260) includes lobster bisque, porchetta, mashed potatoes and asparagus. 203-350-0014, thewharfmadison.com.

Hilton Mystic, 20 Coogan Blvd., Mystic, offers a Mothers Day brunch with an omelet station, raw bar, carved meats, breakfast items, a fresh salad station, hot entrees and desserts. Cost is $45 for adults, $20 for kids 5 to 11 (free for kids under 5). Reservations are available on Eventbrite. hiltonmystic.com.

Saybrook Point Resort & Marina, 2 Bridge St., Old Saybrook, hosts a Mothers Day prix-fixe brunch, with entree choices like blackened Atlantic swordfish, Jamaican BBQ slow-roasted short rib, chipotle ginger grilled pork chop, herb-seared Chilean sea bass and baked spinach cannelloni ($59 to $69). The meal features family-style cheeses, crudite and breads, along with choice of appetizer and dessert. 860-388-1111, saybrook.com/eat-drink/mothersday.

Waters Edge Resort & Spa, 1525 Boston Post Road, Westbrook, hosts a prix-fixe Mothers Day meal with entree options like half roasted chicken, grilled veal chop, asparagus ravioli, grilled ribeye steak and pan-seared sea bass ($42 to $52 per person). Waters Edge also offers a Mothers Day to-go menu for two people for $89, with choice of grilled beef tenderloin or Mediterranean chicken entree. 860-399-5901 ext. 2021; watersedgeresortandspa.com.
NEW HAVEN  The race is on.

New Haven Housing Authority - Elm City Communities President and CEO Karen DuBois-Walton, who for the past two months has been exploring a possible run for the Democratic mayoral nomination, will move forward with that run and make it official Monday, she told the New Haven Register.

DuBois-Walton, 53, a Democrat who announced March 8 that she had formed an exploratory committee for a possible run to challenge Democratic Mayor Justin Elicker, will file papers for that run at 9 a.m. in the City / Town Clerks Office, she said.

DuBois-Waltons last day on the job at the Housing Authority was Friday.

Its exciting, DuBois-Walton said. Ive been here 14 years and have been able to bring the combination of strong leadership, big vision ... and put together what residents need to bring big change here.

I look forward to talking to the people of New Haven about what we can do for them, she said.

About what she brings to the table as a candidate for mayor, DuBois-Walton said, I think I bring strong leadership and experienced leadership that knows how to get things done.

That strong leadership in turn brings other partners to the table and other dollars to solve the problems ... I think strong leadership is key, she said. If you dont use that opportunity to provide strong leadership, we wont move forward as a community.

We need leadership thats going to set a vision and a path that people can get excited about, DuBois-Walton said.

While school administration is separated from municipal government by statute in Connecticut, the mayor is part of the school board in New Haven. I think the mayoral leadership is huge, DuBois-Walton said. I think what weve seen when we have seen big reform in our school administration is ... weve seen the mayor partnering with the superintendent and the Board of Education.

I think we need leadership, strong leadership and I think we need ... real leadership..., she said.

We look forward to making that case and talking to the people, she said.

Elicker said he looks forward to the race. Elicker announced his plans to seek a second term in January.

I welcome Dr. DuBois Walton to the race and look forward to the conversation about the direction of the city, Elicker said. We are confident that, after one of the most challenging years our community has seen, we are on the right track.

The city has responded to the pandemic with a focus on equity and science, everything from ensuring a computer device for every public school child to implementing over 45 vaccine pop ups in historically underserved communities, he said. And with the end of the pandemic on the horizon, we are about to take off, starting with a $6.3 million investment this summer in youth programs, safety and neighborhood investment.

DuBois-Walton is one of at least three people planning or considering runs for mayor in November. Democrat Mayce Torres, who has not previously held elected office or served in city government, also has filed papers to run. Democrat Elena Grewal, also a newcomer to city politics, has filed papers to form an exploratory committee.

DuBois-Walton, a native of New York who initially arrived in New Haven in 1985 as an undergraduate at Yale University, then returned in 1994 after a few years in Boston, worked in the administration of former mayor John DeStefano Jr. (as chief of staff and chief administrative officer) and as head of the Housing Authority during the administration of Toni Harp, whom she supported in the last election.

She was a member of Elickers transition team, but has said that it made sense for the leader of the largest affordable housing organization in New Haven to be part of the transition for a mayor who has made the need for affordable housing a major part of his campaign.

The Housing Authority Board of Directors last month voted to accept DuBois-Waltons request to take a leave of absence, appointing Shenae Draughn, a 13-year employee who most recently served as senior vice president of The Glendower Group, a subsidiary branch of the Housing Authority, to be interim director.

Draughn, who began her new job Saturday, will serve as interim executive director/secretary/president of the Housing Authority at least through Sept. 30.

The move to appoint Draughn to lead the authority while DuBois-Walton runs for mayor follows a previously-approved succession plan. It will allow the authority to move forward seamlessly with leadership that you also will have confidence in and provide full continuity of services, full continuity of leadership and direction, DuBois-Walton said at the time.

DuBois-Walton said when she announced her plan to form an exploratory committee that New Haven needs to invest in its neighborhoods, build infrastructure and build on its efforts to shape up the citys finances.

Federal money is likely to come in to help with COVID-related expenses and state Senate President Pro Tempore Martin Looney, D-New Haven, is pushing to convert the state to a three-tiered Payment in Lieu of Taxes reimbursement program and give more money to communities like New Haven that have a lot of tax-exempt properties, she said.

But unless we can focus on economic development, the city would be hard-pressed to move forward economically, DuBois-Walton said. While certain parts of New Haven are prospering at this point, the city needs an economic growth strategy that is including everyone in that prosperity.

mark.zaretsky@hearstmediact.com
NEW HAVEN  Former New Haven Housing Authority - Elm City Communities President and CEO Karen DuBois-Walton, who has been exploring a possible run for the Democratic mayoral nomination for the past eight weeks, filed papers Monday to officially jump into the race.

DuBois-Walton, 53, who announced March 8 that she had formed an exploratory committee for a possible run to challenge Democrat Mayor Justin Elicker, will indeed challenge Elicker in a primary for the Democratic nomination, she said outside the Hall of Records at 200 Orange St.

What the city needs is strong leadership, said DuBois-Walton, wearing a dark face mask that read, Faith Over Fear. The way to do that is to create a situation where people feel comfortable at the table, she said.

DuBois-Walton, whose last day on the job at the Housing Authority was Friday, spoke at 9 a.m., just after filing papers with the City / Town Clerks office for that run.

Just under two months ago we stood together in West Rock at the launch of our exploratory committee, DuBois-Walton said. We launched then with the very real desire to hear from New Haveners  to hear about hopes and dreams for the city and to listen to what isnt working and what needs to be fixed.

Since then, we have listened to hundreds of neighbors  neighbors who shared concerns about the rise in crime and frustrated by the lack of response, from neighbors who are frustrated that more hasnt been done to address policing in our community and reset the relationship between community and police, DuBois-Walton said.

DuBois-Walton also heard from neighbors who are concerned that not enough is happening in their neighborhoods while they see high-end apartments coming up downtown and know that they cannot afford those rents, and from neighbors who were embarrassed by the discord at our Board of Education and concerned that safe ways to return to school were not found earlier, she said.

We need leadership thats going to set a vision and a path that people can get excited about, DuBois-Walton said. Among other things, over the past year, I think our kids suffered from the lack of leadership with regard to the reopening of city schools, she said.

Elicker said he looks forward to the race.

I welcome Dr. DuBois-Walton to the race and look forward to the conversation about the direction of the city, Elicker said. We are confident that, after one of the most challenging years our community has seen, we are on the right track.

The city has responded to the pandemic with a focus on equity and science, everything from ensuring a computer device for every public school child to implementing over 45 vaccine pop-ups in historically underserved communities, Elicker said. And with the end of the pandemic on the horizon, we are about to take off, starting with a $6.3 million investment this summer in youth programs, safety and neighborhood investment.

DuBois-Walton is one of at least three people planning or considering a run for mayor in November. Democrat Mayce Torres, who has not previously held elected office or served in city government, also has filed papers to run. Meanwhile, Democrat Elena Grewal, also a newcomer to city politics, has filed papers to form an exploratory committee.

DuBois-Walton, a native of New York who initially arrived in New Haven in 1985 as an undergraduate at Yale University, then returned in 1994 after a few years in Boston, worked in the administration of former Mayor John DeStefano Jr. (as chief of staff and chief administrative officer) and as head of the Housing Authority during the administration of former Mayor Toni Harp, whom she supported in the last election.

She was a member of Elickers transition team, however, but has said that it made sense for the leader of the largest affordable housing organization in New Haven to be part of the transition for a mayor who has made the need for affordable housing a major part of his campaign.

The Housing Authority board of directors last month voted to accept DuBois-Waltons request to take a leave of absence, appointing Shenae Draughn, a 13-year employee who most recently served as senior vice president of The Glendower Group, a subsidiary branch of the Housing Authority, to be interim director.

Draughn, who began her new job Saturday, will serve as interim executive director/secretary/president of the Housing Authority at least through Sept. 30.

The move to appoint Draughn to lead the authority while DuBois-Walton runs for mayor follows a previously-approved succession plan. It will allow the authority to move forward seamlessly with leadership that you also will have confidence in and provide full continuity of services, full continuity of leadership and direction, DuBois-Walton said at the time.

DuBois-Walton said when she announced her plan to form an exploratory committee that New Haven needs to invest in its neighborhoods, build infrastructure and build on its efforts to shape up the citys finances.

Federal money is likely to come in to help with COVID-related expenses and state Senate President Pro Tempore Martin Looney, D-New Haven, is pushing to convert the state to a three-tiered Payment in Lieu of Taxes reimbursement program and give more money to communities such as New Haven that have a great deal of tax-exempt properties, she said.

But unless we can focus on economic development, the city would be hard-pressed to move forward economically, DuBois-Walton said. While certain parts of New Haven are prospering at this point, the city needs an economic growth strategy that is including everyone in that prosperity.
avid_creative / Getty Images

NEW HAVEN  A 44-year-old man was brought to the hospital after a Sunday shooting, according to police.

Emergency calls came in regards to a person shot and officials headed to the 400 block of Shelton Avenue, according to a release from New Haven Police Department spokesperson Scott Shumway.
NEW HAVEN  Officials are investigating a Sunday shooting that left a city resident wounded to the pelvic area, according to police.

The 21-year-old is in stable condition at a hospital, according to a news release sent by police spokesperson Scott Shumway.
The vaccine must be distributed to everyone everywhere, Harry continued. We cannot rest or truly recover until there is fair distribution to every corner of the world. The mission in front of us is one we cannot afford to fail out and thats what tonight is about. The virus does not respect borders and access to the vaccine cannot be determined by geography. It must be accepted as a basic right for all and that is our starting point.
While a few shoreline towns boast some of the highest COVID vaccination rates in the state, local officials are concerned about the waning interest from the rest of their residents to get the shot.

Weve seen a big slowdown in the last week or so, said Barbara Naclerio, health educator for the East Shore District Health Department.

Its concerning, she said.

When the vaccine was first available this year, Naclerio said, We were getting all the people who were fighting to get a shot  it was like getting tickets to a rock concert.

To help reach more people, a walk-up clinic is scheduled for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday at the Branford Community House at 46 Church St., Naclerio noted. Moderna and the one-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccines will be available to those 18 and older.

The East Shore District offers vaccinations to residents of Branford, East Haven, Fair Haven, Guilford and Madison.

Naclerio said she is concerned the temporary pause of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine in connection with reports of a small group of people developing rare blood clots may have contributed to the slowdown.

Its making a lot of people who were on the fence  stay on that fence, she said.

In addition, language barriers and undocumented residents who are fearful of being discovered after getting the shot could be other factors, Naclerio said.

She also noted that some clinics did not offer convenient hours for people who work.

To address that, she said East Shore will be retooling its vaccine efforts with plans to visit businesses, such as restaurants, via its mobile clinic  a donated converted ambulance.

In particular, she hopes to reach restaurant workers as they are most likely to have face-to-face contact with customers and may have trouble making regular clinic hours.

Naclerio said one clinic East Shore held at the Stanley T. Williams Community Center in North Branford attracted a large group of workers from local farms.

The health departments mobile clinic also reaches homebound residents. For those who have trouble with mobility, but can drive or can ride in a car, there is curbside service at the clinics where a nurse enters the vehicle with the patient and does the paperwork, gives the shot and checks on them after the required waiting period.

In Branford, older adults age 65 and up are almost all vaccinated, with a reported 100 percent who have received their first shot and 95 percent fully vaccinated. According to the states data, 61 percent of Branford residents have had their first shot and nearly 47 percent are fully vaccinated.

In Guilford, First Selectman Matt Hoey pointed out the states data includes total population and does not exclude those 15 and under who are not eligible.

Looking at just the percentage of eligible residents who have received the first and second shots presents a truer picture, he said.

Hoey said that 78 percent of eligible Guilford residents (18,233) got the first shot  differing from the states figure of 64.65 percent, which uses the towns total population, (22,133) as a measure.

Those who are fully vaccinated according to Hoeys figures, comprise 60 percent of the eligible population versus the states figure of 49.47 percent.

There are 3,900 residents who are not eligible for the vaccine, according to Hoey.

He also noted that there were 19 new COVID cases last week  the lowest since early November.

Guilford continues to have the lowest infection rate per capita of our surrounding towns, Hoey said.

Old Saybrook marks 20,000 shots

In Old Saybrook, where the towns vaccination rate has been near the best in the state, the mass drive-thru site administered its 20,000th shot on Saturday, Police Chief Mike Spera said.

Spera heads the Old Saybrook Emergency Operation Center that oversees the towns vaccine clinic.

The town will hold an Immunity in the Community clinic from 3:30 to 8 p.m. Thursday at 60 Sheffield St. The clinic will be walk-in and patients can choose either Pfizer or Moderna.

You will not need at appointment, Spera said.

After patients get vaccinated, Spera said, youll get a hot dog or a hamburger off the grill.

The Immunity in the Community clinic is our last effort to get all eligible age groups, Spera said.

The towns high vaccination rate lets people know Saybrook is a safe place to come, he said.

If youre going to eat or shop, come to Saybrook, Spera said.

Some hesitancy remains

Essex First Selectman Norm Needleman is pleased with the percentage of residents who are vaccinated, but he is concerned about the hold-outs. He has also seen the effects of COVID first-hand.

I lost a best friend to COVID, he said.

While nearly 69 percent of Essex residents have received their first shot and 54 percent are fully vaccinated, Needleman said the traffic to vaccination sites has been dropping.

I think Essex is slowing. We are at a high percentage, Needleman said. I think were reaching a saturation.

But he is most worried about those who tell him: Im not ready yet or Im waiting.

We dont only vaccinate for ourselves  we do it to protect the community, he said.

Needleman compares these vaccines to the ones used to prevent polio.

I remember when a neighbor had polio, we were so grateful when the polio vaccine came out, Needleman said. You saw what happened to other people.
Niagara Falls, NY (14301)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High near 85F. Winds N at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies. Low 61F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph.
A 2020 Chevrolet Bolt EV is displayed at the 2020 Pittsburgh International Auto Show in Pittsburgh. General Motors says a pending breakthrough in battery chemistry will cut the price of its electric vehicles so they equal those powered by gasoline within five years. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar, File)
Rev. Fr. Ejike Mbaka of the Adoration Ministry, located in Enugu, has told Garba Shehu, the Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicit...

Rev. Fr. Ejike Mbaka of the Adoration Ministry, located in Enugu, has told Garba Shehu, the Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to President Muhammadu Buhari to apologise to him.

Mbaka also warned Garba Shehu to trade with caution, adding that the Presidents mouthpiece can also be killed by rampaging bandits.

Father Mbaka made the demand following Shehus recent claims that the clergyman came to Buhari begging for contracts and was disappointed.

Recall that Mbaka had last week asked President Muhammadu Buhari to resign forthwith or be impeached by the House of Representatives.

Angered by the clerics outburst, the Presidency, through Mr. Shehu had accused the priest of making the call now because he was denied a contract by Buhari.

Mbaka has now described Shehus claims as laughable, saying, Garba Shehu that is talking, the bandits can kill him too. No amount of security can save them if things get worse.

They have shown they dont have reward mechanism. Shehu should be apologising to me.

They are busy branding communities and states terrorists. If Kaduna, Benue, and other places are branded terrorist states, will Nigeria not be branded a terrorist country?
Im not ashamed to say it out loud anymore, Holliday wrote on Twitter. Im the result of a culture that celebrates thinness and equates that to worth, but I get to write my own narrative now. Im finally able to care for a body that Ive punished my entire life and I am finally free.
The Department of State Services (DSS) has warned misguided elements who are threatening Nigerias unity and peaceful co-existence to de...

The Department of State Services (DSS) has warned misguided elements who are threatening Nigerias unity and peaceful co-existence to desist from doing so.

Peter Afunanya, DSS spokesman, said that henceforth, the service will no longer tolerate those whose aim is to throw the country into anarchy.

In a statement he said: While the Service reaffirms its unambiguous support to an indivisible, indissoluble and united Nigerian State in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution, it will no longer tolerate deliberate machinations by subversive and hostile groups whose agenda is to throw the country into anarchy so as to serve the interests of their sponsors.

Consequently, the Servcie is assiduously working with other security and law enforcement agencies to ensure the maintenance of peace and internal security of the country.

Afunanya said among those threatening the federal government and Nigerias unity are some religious and past political leaders who have either called for a forceful change of government or mass action against it.

It has been established that the main objective for these is to cause a disintegration of the country, he added.

It is unfortunate that those in the forefront of this are respectable individuals who should be patriotic and not allow their personal ambitions to ruin the nation. The Service has also noted their desperation and penchant to collaborate with external forces and influences against Nigeria.

They are reminded that even though democracy offers free speech, it does not give room to reckless pronouncements capable of undermining security. It is instructive to note that the ballot box remains the vehicle of change in a democracy.

In this regard, self-centred individuals and groups are warned to stop engaging in acts inimical to the peace and sovereignty of this nation. In the same manner, influential personalities should be sensitive to emerging situations and guard against divisive and inciting utterances that may cause a breakdown of law and order.

The DSS statement comes amid the sustained calls for Nigerias breakup from both the proponents of a Biafran government and other aggrieved citizens.
President Muhammadu Buhari has been told to place a phone call and reconcile with Reverend Father Ejike Mbaka of the Adoration Ministry, Enu...





President Muhammadu Buhari has been told to place a phone call and reconcile with Reverend Father Ejike Mbaka of the Adoration Ministry, Enugu State.

Recall that Rev. Mbaka had last week asked President Muhammadu Buhari to resign forthwith or be impeached by the House of representatives.

In response, the Presidency, through Garba Shehu, a Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, accused the revered priest of making the call now because he was refused a contract by Buhari.

Although Mbaka is yet to directly react to Shehus claims, some of his associates have berated the Presidency, asking it to respond to the issues raised by the cleric instead of making allegations that do not hold water.

But Shehu Sani, a former lawmaker from Kaduna central senatorial district, described father Mbaka as a patriot who deserves respect from the Presidency.

Shehu Sani did not also see anything wrong with giving the cleric a contract since the same contracts are being awarded to Chinese, Arabs, Jews and Europeans.

He warned the government against pushing individuals like Mbaka, who, according to him, believes in the unity of the country to the hands of secessionists.

In a tweet on Sunday, Sani said, Father Mbaka is a patriot and deserves respect. The President should place a phone call and reconcile with him.

People who believe in the unity of this country should not be disgracefully pushed to the hands of separatists. Even Chinese, Arabs, Jews and Europeans are given contracts.

Mbaka, had among other things, hinged his call for the impeachment of Buhari on the high level of insecurity around the country.
Teslim Folarin, senator representing Oyo central, has demanded the removal of the exclusive list from the 1999 constitution currently bein...

Teslim Folarin, senator representing Oyo central, has demanded the removal of the exclusive list from the 1999 constitution currently being amended by the national assembly.

The list spells out areas where power is reserved exclusively for the federal government to legislate upon.

Some of the items featured include citizenship, aviation, military, public debt, mineral resources, foreign affairs among others.

Addressing journalists in Ibadan on Sunday, Folarin, who is a member of the senate constitutional amendment committee, also said Nigeria cannot have sustainable development unless it is restructured.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) lawmaker said the removal of the exclusive list from the constitution will enable states to grow at their own pace.

I belong to the restructuring school of thought. There is something in the constitution that is called the exclusive list; we need to get rid of that, he said.

Once we get rid of the exclusive list, we are home and dry. What it means is that every state will have to develop at its own pace and then we can begin to hold our leaders accountable.

The senator also condemned the present federal allocation system, arguing that it has never worked in the interest of the country.

Nigeria is a beautiful country but that is if we all get it right. This idea of one cap fits all cannot get us anywhere. It has never worked and it wont work, he said.

It is not sustainable; every month, they (states) go to Abuja to share money and come back. It breeds laziness, nobody is thinking. Oyo state is the biggest producer of cassava after overtaking Edo state.

If you have seen a paper that states the natural resources of every state, you will not believe the sort of resources we have; it is unbelievable.

I was talking about exclusive list; how can you say the land that has all the natural resources will be controlled by the federal government? It wont work. We will do our best. Whether you have Oduduwa Republic or whatever, I dont believe it.
Akintoye stated this on Sunday while reacting to the arrest of Yoruba nation agitators in Ogun state. The agitators had on Saturday defied t...





Akintoye stated this on Sunday while reacting to the arrest of Yoruba nation agitators in Ogun state.

The agitators had on Saturday defied the police clampdown to stage their rally at Alake Palace in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital.

Akintoye, in a statement on Sunday by the Media and Communications Secretary of the group, Mr Maxwell Adeleye, however, warned the Federal Government of Nigeria against intimidating the agitators.

He commended the Yoruba Nimi Omo Kootu-Ojire and its founder, Titilayo Ojeleye, for the success of the rally held in Abeokuta on Saturday.

He said, I want to advise the Nigerian State that the Yoruba self-determination struggle under my leadership shall continue to be peaceful and orderly.

Therefore, threatening us, or attempting to subjugate our rights to self-determination and peaceful assembly are cowardly.

We are marching on, and like valiant soldiers without a dint of fear. I make bold to put it to the Nigerian state that no one can stop an idea whose time has come.

Akintoye called on all Yoruba self-determination groups to begin to hold rallies in their localities every weekend.

However, let me warn that all our people should note that each rally must be conscientiously peaceful, lawful and orderly, he added.
Amid a global pandemic, New Jersey and the rest of the nation are wrestling with another killer: Gun violence, which leaped alarmingly in 2020 across the United States.

Last year, 218 people in New Jersey died in shootings, an increase of 45% from 2019, according to State Police tracking. Another 1,052 people were wounded, up 25%.

That came during a year of tumult, with a deadly virus, a superheated presidential contest and racial justice protests following the May 25 murder of George Floyd in police custody in Minneapolis. Nationally, more than 19,000 lost their lives in shootings, according to the Gun Violence Archive, in what is likely the largest death toll in at least two decades.

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The rise in shootings has been an unfortunate consequence of the pandemic and it has played out throughout America, said Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora, whose city had a record 40 homicides, a 167% increase from 2019.

Gusciora said unemployment and the closure of schools have fueled neighborhood versus neighborhood violence at a time in which community institutions such as churches are still largely remote, hampering their ability to reach people.

Its just frustration all around, Gusciora said.

On Wednesday, President Joe Biden called gun violence an epidemic in America, as the Democrat urged Congress to enact a ban on assault rifles and high-capacity magazines. Debates over gun control have garnered renewed attention in recent months after mass shootings in Indianapolis, Atlanta and Boulder, Colorado.

But gun violence was always present during the pandemic, said Michael Anestis, the executive director of Rutgers Universitys New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center. Just 4% of gun deaths occur during mass shootings, though they loom far larger in the public eye, he said.

People dont tend to talk about day-to-day gun violence that continued, and in fact picked up, over the past year, Anestis said.

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The Gun Violence Archive, a nonprofit organization that tracks daily shootings across the U.S., says 19,395 people were killed in gunfire in 2020, up 26% from 2019. Since at least 1999, there has never been a higher toll, federal data by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows.

Gun violence is seasonal, and tends to rise in the summer and recede in the winter. But 2021 has still been off to a rough start.

Nationally, 6,187 people have died and 11,268 have been injured in shootings as of Friday, a 35% increase over the same time period in each of the three prior years, the Gun Violence Archive data shows.

In New Jersey, the first three months of 2021 saw 37 people killed and 223 wounded in shootings, according to State Police stats. Thats the highest total for that quarter in four years, though 2018 had more deaths (44).

Liza Chowdhury and her team at the Paterson Healing Collective have seen the recent heartbreak firsthand. The recently launched initiative helps victims of shootings and other violence as they struggle to regain their lives; already the nonprofit has served 52 gunshot victims from October to March, according to Chowdhury, its director.

It is happening a lot, unfortunately, said Tamika Ruffin, a case manager at the collective. And I think it is because of course of COVID and the lack of resources.

Among the Paterson victims is Miaisha Campbell, who survived three bullet wounds to her back during a street shooting last year. At an online violence prevention roundtable on Thursday, Campbell spoke of her struggles to manage her anxiety, land a job and get back on her feet.

The shooting left her in a super dark place, Campbell said. To the point (that) I didnt trust my kids being outside, I didnt trust nothing or no one.

Amid the surge in gun violence, overall homicides across New Jersey leaped 26% in 2020, rising to 329, from 262 in 2019, according to State Police. In Paterson, they soared by 42%, to 27.

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Paterson is one of a handful of cities that, combined, account for a majority of the states killings year to year. But not every hotspot had murders leap dramatically in 2020.

Camden saw homicides drop by two, to 23. Newark recorded 56 murders, down one from 2019. In Jersey City, they increased by four, to 17.

Others with big rises were Salem (11 homicides, from 2 in 2019) and Elizabeth (17, from 7).

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Riley Yates may be reached at ryates@njadvancemedia.com.
Make way for another meatball.

Jersey Shore star Deena Nicole Cortese announced the birth of her second child, Cameron, Sunday on Instagram.

This is the second boy for Cortese, whose married name is Deena Buckner. No word on whether or not this Cameron will grow up to take his fathers 1961 Ferrari 250 GT California for a joyride.

The Buckners are now officially a party of 4, Cortese said in a post showing photos and video of the new arrival.

Cameron Theo Buckner was born May 1st at 7:21pm weighing 7 pound 3 ounces and 20 inches long, she said. He is such a little angel baby .. mommy is feeling well and we are all so beyond happy and were bursting out with so much love .. our hearts are full! We cant wait until he meets his big brother tomorrow!!

Deena and Chris Buckner welcomed their first son, CJ, in 2019. Their new addition coincidentally takes a cue from not one, but two fictional characters of the 80s  Cameron Frye from Ferris Buellers Day Off (1986) and Theo Huxtable from The Cosby Show (1984-1992).

Deena, who stars in the MTV Jersey Shore revival Jersey Shore Family Vacation, hails from New Egypt and moved to Jackson with Buckner, who she married in 2017.

Her Jersey Shore co-stars, many of them parents, sent their congratulations and well wishes on Instagram.

Congrats guys!!!! said Paul DJ Pauly D DelVecchio, father of one. Cant wait to meet the new addition to the fam.

Yayyyyy!!!! said Jenni JWoww Farley, mother of two. Congratulations mama.

Congrats my meatball! said Nicole Snooki Polizzi, a mother of three who left the show but remains friends with Deena. Cant wait to meet my baby!! Love you both so much.

Omg congratulations, said Mike The Situation Sorrentino.

Sorrentino is expecting his first child any day now with his wife, Lauren (Pesce) Sorrentino, who recently posted a series of maternity photos.

I cant wait to hold this little guy! Lauren said. Beautiful family!

Deena joined the cast of Jersey Shore in 2010 after Angelina Pivarnick left the series in the second season. She reflected on her second pregnancy in a post just before Cameron was born.

I have to say this pregnancy really was amazing, she said. And even though I feel like this last month is dragging ( mostly because Im in pain and uncomfortable) it truly flew by .. definitely having a whirlwind of emotions .. happiness ..excitement .. so much love .. but also feeling a little mom guilt because my first baby is no longer gonna be the only one .. but I know CJ and Cameron are going to be the best of friends and CJ is going to be the best big brother ever to baby Camin.

Thank you for relying on us to provide the journalism you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a subscription.

Amy Kuperinsky may be reached at akuperinsky@njadvancemedia.com and followed at @AmyKup on Twitter.
The Washington Township High School Choirs 2021 Pops concert, Moving Forward, which was postponed in February, will be video-streamed May 8-10 via BookTix Live.

Our students have been working diligently to keep singing alive and well, since our return to school this past fall, WTHS choral cirector Joe Zachowski said. Our main goal all year has been to maintain a sense of community, and this concert is all about how we move forward and learn from difficult things that happen in our lives. After everything weve been through, what comes next?

The concert will be streamed 7:30 p.m. Saturday May 8, 2 and 7:30 p.m. Sunday May 9, and 7:30 p.m.Monday May 10. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased at wthsnj.booktix.com.

Performing will be the WTHS Mixed Chorus, Treble Chorus and Chorale, Dynamics and Momentum a cappella groups and solo acts. The concerts 25 songs include selections by Queen, Coldplay, Mariah Carey, Billie Eilish and others.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions and technical considerations, TWP choir has been filming the show over the course of several nights in the WTHS Investors Bank Performing Arts Center. Senior and soloist parents have been able to attend portions of the filming to watch their childrens performances live on stage.

Senior class members will perform during Washington Township High School's online "Moving Forward" Pops concert May 8-10.Washington Township School District

We made a commitment to provide this experience for our students and families, while also adhering to all COVID protocols, Zachowski said. Students are staged 6 feet apart and are performing in masks. Its certainly been a challenge, but I cant express how overjoyed I am that we made this happen while staying safe.

TWP Choir typically supports a local or national charity with its annual show. This year, a portion of the proceeds will benefit The Actors Fund.

Send community news to south@njadvancemedia.com.
A disgraced North Bergen Department of Public Works supervisors bid to have his 2015 corruption conviction thrown out was rejected by an appellate court Monday.

Troy Bunero, who was convicted of performing political skullduggery and working on his boss home while on duty, claimed in his appeal that the judge in his first appeal should have held an evidentiary hearing on claims that Buneros trial attorney provided an ineffective defense.

The 54-year-old served a 5-year prison sentence and was released in January, along with his co-defendant, Francis Longo.

Bunero and Longo had been convicted of following the orders of then-DPW Superintendent James Wiley, who had pleaded guilty in 2012 to directing Bunero, Longo and other employees to do work at his home and to work on political campaigns in 2008, 2009 and 2010 while they were being paid by the township. Wiley testified against the two men at their trial.

Nearly nine years later, Wiley is still awaiting sentencing, mostly because he is also a cooperating witness in the prosecution of two other North Bergen employees, Walter Somick and Abraham Garcia. Somick and Garcia are accused of getting paid for low-show/no-show jobs with the township.

Somick, the son of North Bergen Mayor Nicholas Saccos longtime girlfriend Kathy Somick, and Garcia are still awaiting trial on the 2015 charges. The two will be tried separately.

In Buneros most recent appeal, he claimed that his trial attorney should have presented a better argument related to duress  that he complied with the orders to participate in illegal activities, like removing campaign fliers of Saccos political opponents, under the threat of being fired.

While some of these action were done for the benefit of the longtime mayor and state senator, Sacco has never been charged.

There was testimony at the trial whistleblowing to the township police department or higher officials would be fruitless because the corruption of the government was rampant and unchecked.

Bunero fails to show that he was prejudiced by counsels performance, the appellate opinion said. He maintains he would have testified had counsel researched the duress defense and investigated to obtain evidence of threats and use of physical harm in order to present the defense.

Yet defendants certification in support of (post-conviction relief) fails to set forth any facts that Wiley threatened him with or used physical harm to force him to order DPW workers to perform private work and to authorize public funds to compensate them for that work.
Historically speaking, did you know that:

The Law: New Jersey law has its earliest origins in English law. Beginning in 1664, a number of concessions and constitutions were provided for elected legislatures.

League of Women Voters: The League of Women Voters was founded in Newark in April 1920.

Leather Industry: The Lenape Indians were the earliest leather manufacturers in New Jersey.

The Lenape: The name of the native people of New Jersey means real or original people.

Lenox China: It is the premiere fine tableware and giftware manufacturer in the United States. It was founded in Trenton in 1909.

Levitt & Sons: Founded by Abraham Levitt and later managed by his son William Levitt, Levitt & Sons created the post-World War II suburban housing developments, consisting of inexpensive dwellings. One of the last Levittowns built was Willingboro Township in Burlington County.

Liberty Science Center: The Liberty Science Center at Liberty State Park in Jersey City is dedicated to the exploration of nature, humanity, and technology.

Liberty State Park: Liberty State Park is located in the Eastern section of Jersey City on more than 1,200 acres.

Libraries: The State of New Jersey offers all of its citizens more than 1,000 public libraries.

Lifeguarding: Lifeguarding in New Jersey began in 1855 in Atlantic City.

Lighthouses: Lighthouses were necessary because shipwrecks were common in the 18th and 19th centuries along the wide sandy beaches on the Atlantic Coast of New Jersey.

Lindbergh Baby Kidnapping: The Lindbergh Baby Kidnapping occurred on the night of March 1, 1932. A reporter for the AP Statehouse won the Pulitzer for covering the story.

Lithuanians: A majority of Lithuanian immigrants arrived in New Jersey between 1900 and 1914.

Joseph Albrights column appears on Thursdays in The Jersey Journal.
Kevin Shimomaeda, the Next Steps Program Coordinator with Jackson Street Youth Services, sits inside the living room of one of the Transitional Living Shelters in Corvallis Oregon. Jackson Street Youth Services provides Oregon State students with a transitional living program which offers older youth long-term apartment-style housing and support services.
A man apparently living in a vacant Trenton home died early Monday when flames ripped through the dwelling and spread to two attached homes.

Trenton firefighters found the man just inside the plywood front door of the home at about 3 a.m. Efforts to save him were unsuccessful, a city fire department spokesman said.

The mans identity was not immediately made public.

The three attached homes on North Clinton Avenue near Poplar Street in the citys East Trenton neighborhood were all vacant and had no utilities, the spokesman said. The fire department later learned that the police department found footage from a security camera showing a male enter the structure a few hours before by slipping past the plywood door.

The footage around the time of the fire does not show him escaping.

Firefighters found personal belongings in the home and suspect the man was living there, the spokesman said.

This fire is under investigation, but such blazes often result from people starting fires or using devices to stay warm.

Flames from Monday mornings fire shot through the roof of the structure before a full first alarm of firefighters brought it under control, the department said.

A Google image of the East Trenton homes before the May 3, 2021 fire.

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In September 2019, a police tactical team broke down the door to Lashanda Morgans North Brunswick home to execute a search warrant.

They were not looking for her, nor drugs or weapons, but motor vehicle VIN numbers and a key fob, as part of a stolen vehicle ring they suspect her then boyfriend was part of. He was there, and arrested.

The officers had a knock and announce warrant, but video of the entry  captured on Morgans home security system - shows they waited maybe two seconds between knocking and busting inside. On the way out, an officer tampered with the security system, which had recorded the swift entry, shortly after 5 a.m.

The ordeal left Morgan and her two young children traumatized, and she alleges the warrants execution by officers from three agencies was flawed, contentions she made in a lawsuit recently filed in Superior Court of Middlesex County.

It also raises questions about the ways authorities execute search warrants, an issue that exploded nationally after the fatal shooting of 26-year-old Breonna Taylor, who was shot by police executing a warrant in Louisville.

She never heard a knock. She just heard the explosion, and within seconds they were in the room with guns pointed everywhere, Morgans attorney Kevin Flood said.

The agencies involved, the Middlesex County Prosecutors Office, North Brunswick Police Department and New Jersey State Police, declined to comment for this story.

In New Jersey, there is no set time officers must wait between knocking and forcing their way in.

Its an issue governed by case law, said Peter Aseltine, a spokesman for the state Attorney Generals Office. He said the states Police Training Commission requires police academies to train officers on those requirements, he said. Officers can face disciplinary sanctions if they violate judicial standards, including during the execution of a search warrant.

The Attorney General takes this issue seriously, and is reviewing options for ensuring greater uniformity in the execution of warrants, Aseltine said.

The office declined to comment specifically on the Morgan suit.

One prior case law decision on the subject, in 2009, occurred when New Jerseys top court rejected a claim from a Camden County man who argued authorities did not properly execute a warrant when they waited 20 to 30 seconds between knocking and forcing entry into his home to search for drugs.

In that case, the court wrote that a reasonable waiting time depends on a suspects violent criminal history, an informants tip that weapons will be present, the risks to officers lives and safety, the size or layout of defendants property, whether persons other than defendant reside there, whether others involved in the crime are expected to be present and the time of day.

Depending on the circumstances, New Jersey cases have found reasonable time lapses ranging from 15 seconds to 10 minutes, the court said at the time.

John Jay College Professor Walter Signorelli said police should give a person reasonable time to answer the door before forcing entry, but what is considered reasonable is largely a judgment call based on information known to police, he said.

The police should get a no-knock warrant if there is a fear the target of the warrant may try to hide evidence or grab a weapon after authorities announce themselves, Signorelli said.

I mean if theyre in the shower or something, youve got to give them a reasonable amount of time to answer the door before you break the door down, Signorelli said. If you think Well if they dont answer the door, theyre flushing drugs down the toilet, or something, or theyre getting a gun, well they probably should have gotten a no-knock warrant for those circumstances.

Robert Bianchi, a former Morris County prosecutor, said police should assess the danger of the individual and what is to be seized when determining how to execute a warrant.

Under certain situations, he said, busting into a home unexpectedly in the early morning or late night hours can create a safety issue for both the officers and residents. Instead of breaking down a door, Bianchi suggests police use information from surveilling the property to confront residents as they leave their house.

You go busting into someones house at 5-oclock in the morning, they have no idea who it is, who its not, he said. It just creates a really dangerous scenario.

The target of the warrant, Leon Lowery, has no history of violence, his lawyer said in 2019.

At the time, Lowery, 43, was the subject of a state-led investigation into a string of commercial burglaries and car thefts in Monmouth and Middlesex counties that investigators called Operation Hellcat. Hes charged with multiple offenses, including receiving stolen property, burglary, drug and weapons charges, and the case is pending in court.

After his arrest, Lowery was released from jail pending trial after a Middlesex County assistant prosecutor reviewed videos of the raid.

And during a court appearance then, in November 2019, his attorney Michael Policastro said his client had a lengthy criminal history during his 20s, but had never been accused of a violent crime.

The judge at the time, now-retired Middlesex County Superior Court Judge Diane Pincus, said she was concerned.

Im concerned about that video that I saw, and Im sure the prosecutor is too, but they did knock. What they did after, well see how that develops, Pincus said at the hearing. Im also sorry that there were children in this house when this search warrant was executed and that they were frightened, and thats terrible for children.

On the other hand, Pincus said. Police have to protect themselves, they never know what exists when they go into somebodys house especially a person who has a lengthy record.

According to the lawsuit, the affidavit in support of the search warrant did not indicate that any occupants in the house were a threat to officer safety.

When police arrived, Morgan was in a bedroom in a hospital bed she needed at the time, and was with her 6-year-old daughter. Lowery was in another bed nearby with their 3-year-old son, the suit says.

The complaint contends Morgan and the children suffered post-traumatic stress disorder after police (smashed through) the bedroom door with such extreme force that it was almost knocked the door off its hinges and pointed assault-type rifles at the four of them.

Lowery was handcuffed while Morgan and her kids waited two hours for law enforcement to finish their search, the suit says. The complaint alleges that after leaving the home, a member of the warrant team destroyed evidence by purposefully interfering with a camera that was video recording the execution of the search warrant.

Morgan is alleging she and her kids were unlawfully and unreasonably searched, a violation of the New Jersey Civil Rights Act.

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Avalon Zoppo may be reached at azoppo2@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @AvalonZoppo.
Jae H. Choi had to lay off 150 of his employees last April at the start of the pandemic. He said it was devastating.

As he did so, Choi watched grown men and women crying. He explained this to the lender he was desperately seeking to provide his education company a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan in order to pay the employees amid the COVID health crisis that brought the economy to a halt.

The crocodile tears worked. Feds say it was all a lie.
Andy Kim is looking for character and citizenship, nothing less. He is convinced they go together, and that character manifests itself in the courage to step forward in times like these  to take the risk, to run for office, to lead amid fear and hostility and even threats of violence  because the men and women who took that same step were the bedrock for our first 244 years.

So the second-term Congressman from New Jerseys 3rd District has formed a political action committee to recruit more Asian Americans to run for public office, and he begins his search at an extraordinary moment: Rarely a day passes that a heinous attack against someone of Asian American-Pacific Islander descent isnt caught on video. There have been 3,800 cases of harassment and assault against Asian Americans in the past year, according to a San Francisco State University study released before the murder of six Asian women in Atlanta in March.

With the country fractured by politics and more susceptible to racist rhetoric than ever before, it might be the most important job the 38-year-old Marlton native will ever have. Kim discussed these issues last week with Dave DAlessandro of the Star-Ledger Editorial Board, and here is an abridged version of that conversation:

Q. Every study shows sharp increases in hate crimes against Asian Americans since the Pandemic began  one found a 150-percent rise in 2020, even as hate crimes decreased nationally, and now New Jersey reports that anti-Asian bias incidents including assaults are up 74 percent. Why the spike?

A. The discrimination and even the violence that Asian Americans have faced preceded Covid and will exist after Covid. But this spike is certainly related to the hostile rhetoric by a former president and others who used terms like China virus. So the AAPI community already had the challenge of xenophobia and foreignness, but the hate crimes numbers, which I believe are underreported, show a very dangerous trend.

Q. You went to Atlanta after the March 16 murders to visit the families and the memorials. What was that like?

A. I was invited by the families and the Congressional delegation, and it was one of the most difficult and powerful experiences that Ive had in my career. It was the immediate aftermath of the shooting, the pain was so visceral and raw, and it was an extremely profound experience to see it with own eyes and to hear about the victims from their families. One spoke of their Korean American mother; she cooked all the same foods my mother cooked. She spoke of how her mother worked so hard -- too hard for it to end this way, she said. That stays with you.

I cried twice this week. Once when young woman told me Mom was my sanctuary. Her mom was among 8 killed in Atlanta. I cried again when I saw video of Filipino mom kicked in face in NYC. Amidst tragedy, lets pay tribute to AAPI moms who give us strength (THREAD) #StopAsianHate pic.twitter.com/XGCvZxvfG3  Andy Kim (@AndyKimNJ) April 3, 2021

Q. Can you give us a sense of the fear that the AAPI community lives with now?

A. Its especially deep among the elderly. There are worried to even walk around their neighborhood, and if they go out at all, they do it while theyre on Facetime, so someone is watching them. Theyve all seen footage of the Asian American woman in New York whose attack was caught on video as the doormen watched. Those images are seared in the minds of a lot of Asian Americans now, and the randomness is just alarming. The fear is palpable, as bad as it has been in my lifetime.

Q. Do you have concern for your own safety, having two young children?

A. Im always security-minded, which comes with spending a career in national security working in dangerous places. And now Im working in a building surrounded by razor wire and National Guard troops, so I cant help but be reminded of the danger just going to work. But yes, I dont always bring my family around to events anymore, as I had done before.

The hardest conversation Ive had about the rise in AAPI hate isnt with my colleagues in Congress, its with my kids. How are you talking with your kids about the ways we #StopAsianHate ? https://t.co/qsoQdX8xua  Andy Kim (@AndyKimNJ) April 14, 2021

Q. Have you experienced racial hostility on the job?

A. There was a time when I was returning to New Jersey on the train just before the lockdown last year, and someone yelled at me just because I took a seat next to them. She told me to get away from her and that she might catch Covid just because Im Asian American.

But Ive had other experiences in my career. When I was a diplomat at the State Department, I was banned from working on issues related to Korea. My heritage and last name were excuses to question my loyalty -- even though I was born in the United States, even though I dont speak Korean, and even though I wasnt even trying to work on Korea issues. Meanwhile, a friend who was born in Brazil would work on Brazil issues, a colleague of German descent worked on German issues. So this runs deep.

Q. Now youre in a unique position to call out that bigotry.

A. Yes, we have oversight on the State Department on the Foreign Affairs Committee. Ive engaged with the Secretary and Deputy Secretary on this issue and tried to impress upon them that we are a country that means what we say when we affirm that diversity is our strength, and that we cant think about it as a threat or a security concern.

Q. You have formed a PAC that will focus on recruiting Asian-Americans to run for office. Where does that job begin, and will it be harder to find people willing to put themselves out there now?

A. It starts by building a network and connective tissue in the AAPI community throughout the country. I dont see a lot of political cohesion there; its something that can use some organizing, so thats the first step. Number 2, it comes from greater awareness that Asian Americans need to participate in the political process  even if its just voting. And third, Im trying to get people to conceptualize that theyre capable of running for office.

THANK: AAPIs have been at frontlines of COVID fight. 1.4 million healthcare workers are AAPI (8.5% of total health care workers). More than 1 in 5 (or 195,000) physicians/surgeons are AAPI. 1 in every 11 nurses is AAPI (348,000) https://t.co/dHAfED15A6 (15/20)  Andy Kim (@AndyKimNJ) May 1, 2021

Q. Thats a process you had to work out yourself, wasnt it?

A. Its something I really struggled with. I never thought Id run for office. I barely thought I was capable of being a diplomat: When I came to DC, I knew zero people in the city, and I was deeply intimidated, and I came from an immigrant family that had no connections to government. Then, when I started running for office (in 2017), I had people tell me, You seem like a good guy with a good resume, but you cant win in this district -- its 85 percent white, less than 3 percent Asian-American, and it just voted for Trump. There was a point where I almost believed them.

Q. Thats a critical lesson to impart to your recruits.

A. Well, Im glad I have the stubbornness that my parents instilled in me, so I decided I wasnt going to allow anyone to determine what I can accomplish  especially as it relates to my heritage. So I stepped up and ran, and it was hard to do, but now I have to support others as they go through the process. Whether they do it is up to them. But I want people  young Asian Americans in particular  to rethink what is possible when it comes to government, and well go from there.

Q. Youve alluded to the connection between the hatred aimed at the Asian community and the hatred that led to the insurrection, as both are fueled by pointless and inflammatory rhetoric. How do we purge such hate when we cant even agree on basic facts, like who caused the riot and how a virus spreads?

A. I think about that all the time. I felt it that day at the Capitol: How do we heal going forward? It boils down to the question of whether we have a sharedness as Americans. That woman attacked in New York was told You dont belong here by her attacker. Ive heard that before -- a lot of Asian Americans have -- and that creates an otherness. Its saying you are different from me, youre not American. That same division gave space for the insurrection. It explains how Americans can attack other Americans -- they dont see each other as the same, but as an enemy.

That is a dangerous place to be as a country. Were so polarized; we are even siloing ourselves in cyberspace and putting up walls against people with different perspectives. So the challenge, particularly after January 6th, is to find some way to resurrect that solidarity that weve lost touch with, and redefine what it means to be a citizen.

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Watertown, NY (13601)

Today

Partly to mostly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 87F. Winds SW at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Overcast. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 69F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph.
Watertown, NY (13601)

Today

Cloudy skies this morning will become partly cloudy this afternoon. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High near 85F. Winds NNW at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

A few passing clouds. Low 53F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph.
A staff member at The Retreat at Corvallis working in the main office of the housing complex. The Retreat is one of several student-apartment complexes close to the OSU campus.
The old Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport terminal aint dere no more. Well, its dere, but its as abandoned and unloved as a jilted sweetheart, tossed aside for the new girl in town, the glinting and glamorous MSY palace that opened down the road in 2019.

But the makers of Red Bull  a highly caffeinated soft drink  breathed life into the 62-year-old edifice last weekend, when they invited dozens of svelte young guys and girls to swarm the place for the Red Bull Terminal Takeover skateboard competition.

Imagine narrow Concourse D with tattooed skaters jetting down plywood ramps and swooping over obstacles, T-shirts and baggy pants aflutter. Imagine the escalators in main terminal converted into bobsled tracks, meant to provide sufficient momentum for aerobatic stunts. Imagine skaters zipping along baggage conveyor belts and soaring over baggage carousels, where we used to cluster, tapping our feet, anxiously waiting for our suitcases to appear.

Watch: Skateboarders compete at abandoned Louis Armstrong airport terminal in this video The old Louis Armstrong International Airport terminal has been empty and abandoned for more than a year, left behind after a glittering new t

Skateboarding is like NASCAR in a way, because the possibility of spectacular crashes is part of the thrill. On Saturday night, an emergency medical technician sat against the wall of the baggage claim area watching the young men and women launch themselves into the air again and again, then succumbing to gravity and smacking down violently on the linoleum. Sometimes skateboards squirted away uncontrolled, sometimes skaters slid helplessly across the floor. The EMT, who was there just in case of injuries, described the chaotic, noisy, high-speed scene as entertaining.

You just knew somebody was going to crash into the stack of empty luggage that was piled up for the skaters to jump over. The fates demanded a baggage mishap in the baggage claim area, right? Skater John Kosch said he hit a loose piece of plywood on the approach ramp, which altered his flight path just enough to send him plowing picturesquely into the wall of baggage.

I smacked Grandmas luggage, he said laughing as he rose from the wreckage. Grandma, Im sorry.

+29 Four Seasons getting new residents: Sean Payton, Mickey Loomis buy New Orleans condos Drew Brees may have hung up his cleats, but he wont have to pine for his Saints pals Sean Payton and Mickey Loomis. In fact, he might bump i

Anyone who traveled through the old terminal regularly would get a pang of eerie nostalgia at its current state. Its as if the once-bustling place has just disappeared off the radar screen into the Twilight Zone.

And nothing makes a place seem more forsaken than skateboarders. After all, skateboarders are the athletes of emptiness, the fleeting occupants of the unoccupied office building plaza, the unguarded parking garage and the public park after the public has gone home. Skateboarding is a sport often conducted after closing time, beyond the no trespassing signs. Thats what makes it so sinister and sexy.

Skater Phillip Santosuosso said skating the old terminal was a blast because of how smooth the cement and terrazzo floors were. The whole place was polished heaven, he said. But there was another attraction too.

Santosuosso, the owner of the Humidity Skate Shop in the French Quarter, pointed out that New Orleans has never been especially hospitable to skaters. Until 2015, when the Parisite skate park opened in Gentilly, the town didnt have a sanctioned spot, so skateboarders were used to constantly looking for places to play until they were shooed off or locked out.

Santosuosso, 36, said he knows that most New Orleans security guards are nice because hes been kicked off so many unauthorized skating spots. Naturally, skaters fantasize about skating locations where theres absolutely no chance theyd be welcome.

You do it all the time, he said. You go to a city anywhere and say, Dang, look at that, Id like to skate that.

Santosuosso said the old airport terminal was one of those rare magic environments that youve been to 100 times but werent allowed to skate. But now you were.

The Red Bull Terminal Takeover wasnt a competition in the Olympics sense. Teams of skaters from different Southern cities performed stunts for the benefit of video cameras. The public will vote on the winners later.

Cheers echoed through the baggage claim area when 21-year-old New Orleans skater Anthony Savage Simmons finally landed a move hed attempted maybe 20 times. The challenge was to fly through air, slide along the counter of an unused rent-a-car booth like Fred Astaire, then drop back to earth without crashing.

Simmons described the maneuver as a crooked grind, or something like that. He said the main challenge was not hitting the vertical steel pole at the end of the slide when he nollied out of the crook.

Simmons said hed never been to the airport before the Terminal Takeover, so he didnt pick up on the nostalgia angle. But from a skaters point of view, he said the place was totally the best and they should keep the temporary ramps and obstacles in the unused airport permanently.

I feel like I could come here all day, he said.
The Uptown Vietnamese restaurant Magasin will soon be joined by a second restaurant under the same roof, one dedicated to vegetarian Vietnamese cooking.

This new concept is called Mon Chay, and it will serve a menu of soups, noodle bowls, banh mi and other dishes drawn from the vegetarian branch of Vietnamese cuisine.

Theres just vast potential for this in Vietnamese food, and we want to show people more of it, said proprietor Kim Nguyen.

Mon Chay is now taking shape in the back of Magasins building. It will be an outdoor cafe, with a takeout-style window for service and seating on an open-air patio facing Milan Street. Artist Sophie Peache is now painting murals on the walls of the outdoor space.

The simplicity of the setting is meant to sync with the lighter flavors and vegetarian approach, Nguyen said. She is working with a monk from a local Buddhist temple to oversee Mon Chays menu.

+9 At Metairie sushi bar Yakuza House, the hand roll trend finds a cozy new home In the galaxy of sushi styles, hand rolls are the speedsters  fast, efficient, direct. The chef rolls them by hand, without sushi mats, then 

For instance, the pate used on traditional banh mi will be made from mushrooms and ingredients like seitan and tofu will figure prominently on the menu alongside fresh vegetables, for meatless versions of dishes like pho and bun bo hue.

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Its been nearly a decade since Nguyen first opened Magasin, converting a one-time corner grocery into a cafe with contemporary style and some modern twists on the traditional Vietnamese noodle shop standards. She also runs a second location called Magasin Kitchen in the South Market District development downtown.

So many of our customers are much more familiar now with Vietnamese food than when we started, I think they want to explore more, she said.

The new restaurant is slated to open by July.

Magasin

4201 Magazine St., 896-7611

Mon Chay

4201 Magazine St., projected opening July 2021

+16 This Brennan family restaurant expands to open new dining possibilities in City Park For the past year, a collaborative project has been quietly taking shape inside the New Orleans Museum of Art, one that frames a captivating v

+7 French Quarter bar Peychauds takes a page, and name, from New Orleans cocktail history Just off Bourbon Street, a tiny new French Quarter bar is stepping into some very big shoes of New Orleans cocktail history.
Rafik Abohattab doesnt serve Middle Eastern food at Torshi, his new restaurant on Frenchmen Street. In fact, he avoids even saying what he considers a colonial insult to the Arab world. Middle East of where? says the Cairo-born restaurateur. Of England, thats where  which shouldnt matter to anybody anymore.

Abohattab is passionate about his home countrys cuisine. The 36-year-old entrepreneur has lived in New Orleans for 12 years and, in fact, used to wash dishes at Monas on Frenchmen Street, where he opened his restaurant in early April.

Now I have keys to the restaurant, he says. Thats the American dream for sure.

Abohattab lives in Metairie with his wife, who is from Chalmette, and their twin 4-year-old sons. When he first came to the U.S., he had $71 in his pocket and didnt speak a word of English, he says. He traveled around for three years, taught himself English and worked all kinds of jobs  from kitchen work to crewing on a fishing boat  before landing in New Orleans.

I love it here, he says. My mother is from a place called Port Said, a city that is so similar in architecture to New Orleans that they could be sister cities.

Danielle Dreilinger explores the history of home economics in her new book 'The Secret History of Home Economics: How Trailblazing Women Harnessed the Power of Home and Changed the Way We Live' is now available

Abohattab learned how to cook from his mother and grandmother and was running a food cart in Cairo by the time he was 17.

I was always in the kitchen, since I was a kid, he says. I always ended up cooking for the party. I was that guy.

He aspired to own his own restaurant and imagined he could do that in the U.S. He entered the hotel business and worked his way up to a general manager position with Marriott. But he always was intent on introducing Egyptian cuisine to New Orleans through a menu inspired by family recipes. Abohattab originally opened Torshi as a stand in the St. Roch Market in 2018.

Egyptian fare naturally shares many flavors that grace Mediterranean and North African tables. But there are some specialties that speak to the countries that shared their history with one of the oldest civilizations in the world.

Every time we got invaded, our menu expanded, he says. Torshis menu has familiar dishes like baba ghanoush, lamb shawarma and grape leaves. People know and want these dishes, he says, but there also are dishes particular to his country.

Order falafel at Torshi, which means pickles in both Arabic and Farsi, and the fried vegetarian rounds spiced with garlic and cumin are made not from the usual ground chickpeas, but from its sister legume, fava beans, which are favored in Egypts rich Nile Valley. Koushry is considered Egypt's national dish and is a widely popular street food. With links to Italian, Indian and Mediterranean cultures, koushry is made with rice, bits of vermicelli, lentils and chickpeas, topped with a tomato sauce rich with sauteed onions and served with hot chili sauce on the side.

A crusted hwwaashi is a baked Egyptian panini, a crispy sandwich filled with a mixture of spiced ground beef and lamb, served with garlicky labneh. Fattah, a dish that originated in the Eastern Mediterranean region, is a favorite at home parties and celebrations. It is a bowl of rice topped with varying ingredients, from lamb or beef to spiced cauliflower, all topped with a garlicky tomato sauce. Egyptian spaghetti, made with either tomato or bechamel sauce, is topped with kofta meatballs with notable flavors of Aleppo pepper, turmeric and star anise. Abohattabs roasted eggplant is an especially smoky version of the traditional baba ghanoush.

Im so happy to introduce New Orleanians to the food from my country, he says.

Abohattab also is doing some catering, most notably during Ramadan, when members of the local Muslim community fast from sunrise to sunset. They break the fast after dark with a repast of Mediterranean dishes. Ramadan ends with a feast called Eid al-Fitr, which takes place May 12 this year.

We all are looking forward to that meal, Abohattab says. We cant wait.

504 Frenchmen St., (504) 949-4115

11 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily

Dine-in, takeout and delivery

Vivi Nguyen makes cakes, cookies and mochi brownies for Radical Joy Bakery 'Thats why I call it Radical Joy. This is a radical act for me to basically bet on myself and for other people to believe in my dream.'
Hey Blake,

Is it true Quincy Jones once owned a television station in New Orleans? What was his connection to the city?

Dear reader,

Quincy Jones can claim many titles: record producer, composer, arranger, Rock and Roll Hall of Famer and winner of multiple Grammy Awards. And yes, he was also a local television station owner.

Jones company Quincy Jones Broadcasting Inc. purchased New Orleans WNOL-TV Channel 38 for $7.1 million in 1989. Although he was no stranger to the television and film industry, WNOL was his first such purchase.

Its something Ive been thinking about for quite a few years, Jones told The Times-Picayune in 1990. He said it was a coincidence that a New Orleans station was for sale when he went shopping for one, but said it seemed destined to happen. Ive got a real emotional thing with this city. Its a real magical place for me because of how important it is musically. He shared his memories of visiting the city over the years, including with jazz great Lionel Hampton in 1961.

WNOL, which signed on the air in 1984, was the citys Fox network affiliate when Jones purchased it. Its studios were in the Fisk Building at 1661 Canal Street.

In 1995, when the station switched its affiliation from Fox to the WB network, Jones formed a partnership with the Tribune Company, former Green Bay Packer Willie Davis, TV host Geraldo Rivera and Soul Train creator Don Cornelius. Their company, Qwest Broadcasting, bought Jones WNOL and an unrelated Atlanta TV station for a combined $167 million.

Tribune also owned WGNO-TV in New Orleans. In 2000, Tribune merged with Qwest, becoming the owner of both stations. The two are now owned by Nexstar Media Group.
75 years ago this week, deLesseps Story Chep Morrison was sworn in as New Orleans 40th mayor.

A native of New Roads, Louisiana, cousin to former U.S. Rep. Lindy Boggs and an LSU graduate, Morrison was elected to the state House of Representatives in 1940 and became a vocal opponent of the late Gov. Huey P. Longs machine.

A lawyer, Morrison also served as a colonel in the U.S. Army during World War II. After the war, he entered the 1946 mayors race. His pledge to clean up city corruption won support from veterans, business leaders, women and Black voters.

Morrison defeated incumbent Mayor Robert Maestri and was sworn in on May 6, 1946. We do not pretend to have any magic formula for the immediate cure of all evils and the solution of all problems, he said in his address. We are sure to make many mistakes and we are not fooling ourselves by chasing rainbows.  What we do bring to you is a sincere will to work for the progressive betterment of this city. Morrison also spoke in Spanish, calling New Orleans the gateway to Latin America and promising to enhance trade relationships there, which became a hallmark of his administration.

He modernized city services and the Port of New Orleans, established the New Orleans Recreation Department and spearheaded the construction of the Union Passenger Terminal and the City Hall complex at Poydras and Loyola.

Though he promoted the hiring of Black police officers and firefighters and worked to construct housing and recreational facilities in Black neighborhoods, Morrisons meek attitude on integration earned criticism. He was accused of being lax in suppressing illegal gambling, prostitution and police corruption.

Morrison, who waged three unsuccessful campaigns for governor, served 16 years as mayor. In 1961, he became President Kennedys ambassador to the Organization of American States. Morrison and his 7-year-old son Randy died in a plane crash in Mexico in 1964.
On Saturday morning, it was clear that the city is in the midst of a babydoll boom.

Hundreds of women decked out in short skirts with ruffled bloomers, bonnets and bows danced and pumped umbrellas into the air during the annual Blessing of the Streets behind the Louisiana Jazz Museum. During the ceremony, nearly three-dozen new babydolls were inducted into the tradition during the annual Baby Doll Blessing of the Streets.

When her name was called, Trieshena Baby Doll Dragon Fly Duventre, 49, strutted up to the front to dance and shake the ruffles on her backside, as she joined the Original Black Seminole Baby Dolls, headed up by her cousin, Joell Lee. Duventre said that she had long loved the strong female spirit within her cousins babydoll community.

Joell has been asking me to join for years, Duventre said. And now I done made 49 and realized that there is more to life than going to work. I need some fun.

All new dolls, old and young, wore white dresses, many of them handmade, for their debut as babydolls. I wanted to dress like MawMaw, in a dress with lots of diamonds, said Aubrielle Baby Doll Cookie Boyd, 6, who wore a crisp white frock with matching little white gloves, shoes, and lace anklets for her induction into Tee-Evas Ernie-K-Doe Baby Dolls, one of 22 different groups represented during Saturdays Blessing of the Streets.

Great-grandmother Vanessa Thornton sewed the perfect little white dress in honor her mother, Aubrielles MawMaw, Tee Eva Perry Adams, who died in 2018. We want to continue the culture, said her grandmother, Kiarra Gibson, as she fixed one of the white bows shed tied in Aubrielles hair for the ceremony.

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Gibsons husband, Keith Gibson, is big chief of the Comanche Hunters, which was not uncommon for families in attendance on Saturday. Both masking traditions that have been kept alive in the citys Black communities for centuries. Theres a big connection, said Big Chief Kevin Goodman of the Golden Arrows held the hand of another new inductee, granddaughter Ava Goodman, 2, who was joining the Treme Baby Dolls.

Carol Baby Doll Kit Harris wrote a special elegy for the day, to explain the draw of the tradition. Many ask what is a baby doll, she wrote, reading her work. We are the women who have been through everything but respected for all we do. We are the women who sacrifice much of ourselves to empower, support and encourage our loved ones. We are the quiet heroes  sheroes  of the city of New Orleans. We collectively come together to celebrate the spirit of being a woman.

Harris explained how baby dolls had been told stories of ancestors creating dresses from scraps or remnants of fabric. No more, she said. Today we walk through our neighborhoods with a raddy walk to celebrate ourselves, our ancestors and our culture.  And, come dat Mardi Gras morning, just call out to me and say, Hey, Baby Doll!
The Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office is investigating a homicide that happened Sunday evening in Terrytown.

At about 5:45 p.m., deputies responded to a report of gunshots in the 2900 block of South Monterey Ct.

Deputies found a male victim who had been shot several times in front of a home. The victim died at the scene, the sheriff's office stated.

A suspect or motive has not been identified, and the victims identity is pending.

Authorities ask anyone with information about the incident to call the sheriff's office homicide section at 504-364-5300 or contact Crimestoppers.
The Saint Hotel on Canal Street, best known before the pandemic for live music at its bordello-inspired Burgundy Bar, has new owners who come with a reputation for taking on high-profile hotel revival projects.

New York-based developer Eric Birnbaum's Dreamscape Companies, which has raised $1 billion to invest in such projects, bought The Saint in March for $40 million from Dallas-based hotelier Mark Wyant, who has owned the historic building at 931 Canal Street since he bought it for $5.35 million in 2010.

Built in 1910, the building had originally been planned as a hotel but instead became an office complex with retail shops in its early years. It was the location of the downtown Woolworth's for a spell, before that retailer moved to a different location on Canal Street.

There were several attempts in the 1990s and early 2000s to convert the property into a hotel, but they faltered for various reasons. The building ended up abandoned until Wyant, a former American Airlines pilot, and his mother bought the property and spent $39 million to convert it into a 171-room hotel that opened in late 2011.

Under Wyant, the hotel has developed a distinctively hedonistic vibe. In addition to the Burgundy Bar, which had featured the burlesque performer Trixie Minx among its regular acts before the pandemic, there is also the restaurant Tempt, with its devil's pitchfork logo. The theme is continued on the second floor, where the premier suite at the end of the purple-lit hallway is dubbed The Lucifer.

Birnbaum said they haven't yet decided what kind of design and branding they'll bring to the hotel, although substantial changes are planned.

"It's early for us to divulge how we're going to reposition it, but suffice to say we'll put our own spin on it and, hopefully, make it something that everyone is drawn to," he said.

He points to a project he recently completed in South Beach, Miami, as an indication of what to expect: The Goodtime Hotel, which is fronted by the hip hop entrepreneur Pharrell Williams and Miami club owner David Grutman.

Designed by Ken Fulk in many shades of pink, Grutman told Architectural Digest that "the striped pastel tiling in the pools, the entryway downstairs with its tropical murals, the scalloped bar chairs" give the hotel "a throwback resort vibe."

The launch of The Goodtime last month was met with glowing reviews, especially for its potential role in spurring a revival of a part of South Beach that had fallen on hard times.

But, said Birnbaum, while "this asset is not going to be a Goodtime, we obviously do care about design and positioning. From an architectural and design standpoint [the Goodtime] gives you our taste level and how we think about the world."

Dreamscape has partnered with Aimbridge Hospitality, based in Plano, Texas, for its hotel projects since its first acquisition last year: the boutique Warwick Hotel in Philadelphias Rittenhouse Square. Aimbridge also will be the management company for Dreamscape's huge project to renovate the 2,522-suite Rio hotel and casino in Las Vegas.

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At The Saint, Aimbridge's Sam Carlton and Skip Adams are managing the initial revival of the hotel's operations. They are currently looking for a new chef and management company for Tempt, which they expect to reopen sometime in May. They also are planning to bring back live music at The Burgundy and extend its opening hours, now that restrictions have been eased further in the city.

Scott Broder, who joined Dreamscape as head of hospitality acquisitions in March, said the company is betting big that leisure will rapidly recover after a year in survival mode.

He said the wave of foreclosures and bankruptcies that had been expected in the hotel sector never came, though it could still be in the offing as bankers become less forgiving about loans.

Still, The Saint, at $40 million, was a bargain: it would cost at least twice that to build a similar-sized hotel from scratch, Broder reckons. "We're not the only ones who've noticed that either," he said. "Banks also will be reluctant to finance new projects, which means it'll slow new supply and further help the market to rebound."

Broder said the immediate prospects for New Orleans' leisure sector look good.

"We expect the month of May at The Saint we could see 80-to-90% occupancy on weekends," Broder said.

The latest hotel occupancy data from STR, which tracks the sector nationally, showed that occupancy rates for the week ended April 24 were at about 55% on average in New Orleans, compared to less than 20% in the same week last year. The occupancy rate and room-rates hotels can charge have improved steadily in the first four months of this year, especially since the vaccination program was rolled out.

In its latest national report, STR also said it expects the market to remain steady until it takes off after Memorial Day. "Overall industry occupancy will likely remain plateaued until the summer leisure travel boom," the report said.

Broder said they expect that the big conventions, which are a large part of the New Orleans market, will begin to start rolling again from the third quarter and pick up steam next year.

"Things are certainly better than they were a year ago but they're not great, not yet," said Birnbaum. "It's not like people are travelling as much as they were and I think there is still going to be opportunity to buy hotels three to six months from now."

The sale price for The Saint works out at about $234,000 per room, compared to an average sale price per room for New Orleans hotels last year of $129,000, according to CoStar, which recently bought STR.

Chelsea McCready, Director of Hospitality Analytics at CoStar said that the average transaction price last year was down from $184,00 per room in 2019 and $205,000 in 2018. But she notes that the average prices cover all kinds of hotels, from budget to luxury, whereas The Saint is classified as "upper upscale". She attributes the sharp decline last year to both pandemic discounts and the fact that most hotels sold were in the lower "limited service" category.

The sale of The Saint by Wyant hasn't meant he is scaling back on hotel ventures.

The hotelier just bought last month the historic Hotel Galvez & Spa, his third hotel property in Galveston, Texas. He still owns a portfolio of boutique hotels, including The Saint-branded hotels in Key West, Florida and in Charleston, South Carolina.
This illustration is meant to show the future of housing for OSU-Cascades students. The new housing subsidy will be available for students who go to school on the OSU-Cascades campus next academic year.
The lead agency investigating the capsizing of the Seacor Power lift boat in stormy seas on April 13 said its initial findings are expected to be made public in late May, though the full report into the accident's causes likely won't be ready until late next year.

The National Transportation and Safety Board took the lead in the investigation when the U.S. Coast Guard ended its search and rescue mission five days after the capsizing, after which six crew members were rescued. The bodies of six dead crew members were subsequently recovered; seven more remain missing and are presumed dead.

The sinking is one of the deadliest accidents in the Gulf of Mexico, surpassing the Deepwater Horizon explosion 11 years ago in which 11 workers died.

The NTSB's lead investigator, Andrew "Drew" Ehlers, is a former U.S. Navy officer whose commands included the U.S.S. Cole for a period in 2010-2012. The Cole infamously was attacked by a suicide bomber in the Yemeni port of Aden in 2000.

Ehlers' team for the Seacor Power investigation will divide into three main subject groups, according to NTSB chief spokesperson Chris O'Neil. They are

People  this includes questions about the training, licensing and fitness for duty of the crew and any others involved in its operation. Also, opportunities for rest, experience on that platform, what procedures were in place and how they were followed. "All the things people had a hand in leading up to and at the time of the accident," said O'Neil.

Machinery  this includes questions about the maintenance of the lift boat, whether it was properly maintained according to federal regulations, was it properly classed, were any modifications or repairs in line with federal regulations, what was the condition of vessel?

Environment  the weather is a key part of the investigation. What were the weather reports leading up to the Seacor Power's embarking to the Talos Energy platform, a journey of about 100 miles that would have taken several hours? Who made weather-related decisions and how?

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The next major milestone in the investigation will be a preliminary report, which typically comes about 30 days after the NTSB has taken over the investigation. This will be "a compendium of what they know up to that point and may contain new facts or evidence but won't reach any finding as to cause nor will it have any analysis," O'Neil said.

There will still be a long way to go after that before the NTSB offers any detailed analysis, makes any definitive findings or offers its recommendations.

Typically, a year to 18 months after the start, the investigations team will call a meeting of the five-member NTSB board, chaired by Robert Sumwalt, a former commercial airline pilot. At that meeting, board members will quiz the investigators about what they determined led to the Seacor Power disaster.

After quizzing the investigating team, the board could ask them to make changes to their analysis and recommendations and then a final report is published a few weeks later. It is then up to the regulator  in this case, the U.S. Coast Guard  to take those recommendations and implement any changes required of the industry.

If the NTSB investigators find during their initial investigation anything they deem to be an immediate threat to life, they will issue an emergency statement to warn of the danger.
St. Tammany Parish President Mike Cooper said last week that he will not opt for a local mask requirement following Gov. John Bel Edwards' announcement that the statewide mask mandate to combat spread of coronavirus was being dropped effective April 28.

The governor said local governments could choose to continue requiring masks, but Cooper said he would not opt for more stringent restrictions.

The governor's announcement followed one by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that said people will be safe not wearing masks outdoors when not in large crowds.

St. Tammany has one of the highest rates of vaccination for the novel coronavirus in the state, Cooper noted, with 30% of its 260,000 residents inoculated. He also pointed to the low rate of hospitalizations and that the parish had a 2.2% positivity rate as of April 27.

Cooper encouraged anyone who feels masks help them or who have underlying health conditions to continue wearing them, calling it an additional mitigation measure. But the parish won't require them in government offices or businesses, he said.

"This is good for us and for our businesses and for those planning activities and events that support our local nonprofits that raise so much money for so many great causes," Cooper said.

"I hope we can continue maintaining this and moving forward," he said.

Sara Pagones

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Public input sought on school system pupil progression plan

St. Tammany Parish Public Schools officials soon will begin conducting meetings to receive input and discuss proposed changes to the School System Pupil Progression Plan. Members of the community will have an opportunity to give input on the proposed changes on May 12th at the Lakeshore High gym at 6 p.m.

The plan establishes placement, promotion, retention and grading policies for students within the St. Tammany Parish Public Schools system. A committee of school administrators, teachers and parents meets annually to review the plan and submit recommendations to the St. Tammany Parish School Board for consideration.

Following the public-input meeting, the proposed plan will be presented to the school board for consideration.

Covington cancels May council meeting

The Covington City Council meeting scheduled for May 4 has been canceled because of a light agenda, with no ordinances or resolutions scheduled for public hearing or board action.

The council's next scheduled meeting is June 8 at 6 p.m.
Police are investigating shootings in New Orleans East and Mid-City on Monday morning.

Update: 5 shot in New Orleans, including woman stopped at red light, in 24 hours

According to investigations, a man showed up at a hospital on his own about 9:20 a.m. after being shot in the 6700 block of Cindy Place in the West Lake Forest neighborhood of New Orleans East.

Then, about 10:15 a.m., a man was shot in the 3700 block of Ulloa Street, near the corner of Tulane Avenue and South Cortez Street. First responders took the wounded man to the hospital. At the scene, police cruisers and crime scene tape surrounded a black pick-up truck filled with what appeared to be bullet holes.

+10 Eight shot, including two killed, in three separate overnight shootings in New Orleans A total of eight people were shot, including two who were killed, in three separate shootings overnight Saturday and Sunday, according to the 

Police didnt release details on the condition of either victim. They also didnt name suspects in either case or discuss possible motives.

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In other matters recently handled by local authorities:

 The Orleans Parish Coroners on Monday identified two people who were recently shot to death.

Michael Baker, 28, was shot dead in the 12300 block of North Interstate 10 Service in the Read Boulevard East section of New Orleans East.

Brianisha Caine, 35, was fatally shot in the 1100 block of Verret Street in Algiers.

 A 24-year-old woman was cut with a knife during an argument in the 700 block of Canal Street on the edge of the French Quarter about 9:50 p.m. Sunday, New Orleans police said.
Patrons fleeing from a fight at the Louisiana Crawfish Festival in Chalmette triggered a larger, more chaotic stampede as fearful members of the crowd, some of whom believed there had been gunfire, clambered over barricades and each other in a mad dash for safety on Saturday night, the St. Bernard Parish Sheriff's Office said.

Several people were trampled, including two juveniles who were taken to the hospital for treatment, Sheriff James Pohlmann said. Their conditions were not immediately available.

"I can only imagine how scary it was for both parents and kids in that area, not knowing really what was going on when this whole crowd starting moving in different areas," Pohlmann said Monday during a news conference about the stampede.

Pohlmann also discussed a shooting that took place several hours later, about a mile from the festival. Two teens, ages 15 and 16, were wounded. But investigators can't yet say whether the shooting was related to the earlier altercations on the festival grounds.

The fight that kicked off the stampede occurred around 7 p.m. and was one of more than eight altercations handled that day by deputies working the festival according to Pohlmann.

In a video released Monday by the Sheriff's Office, a few patrons can be seen moving quickly away from an area near the middle of the rides and games midway. But more panicked members of the crowd soon join the crush to get away.

"As people were fleeing that area, they had calls to our deputies that there were shots fired. Some people said they were brandishing weapons and some people were simply yelling 'Gun,'" Pohlmann said.

Fight, stampede, unfounded shooting rumor mar third night of St. Bernard crawfish fest: officials The third night of this years Louisiana Crawfish Festival in Chalmette was marred by a fight that set off a panicked stampede and prompted ru

Several patrons can be seen in the video climbing the deck of a large, pendulum-like amausement ride that was still in operation. Some narrowly escaped being hit by the ride's passenger compartment as they fled from the fight.

"Eventually, they knocked down a section of the fence," Pohlmann said.

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Despite reports of a gun, deputies couldn't confirm that a weapon had been seen or fired, even after interviewing vendors and patrons who'd been in the area, according to Pohlmann.

"We're asking people, if you were at the Louisiana Crawfish Festival, if you saw someone... fire a shot, if you witnessed anyone brandish a weapon, please contact the Sheriff's Office as soon as you can," he said.

The confirmed shooting, meanwhile, occurred about 11:45 p.m. on Patricia Street near Juno Drive. The teens said they were walking when a dark blue sport utility vehicle approached them, according to Pohlmann. Someone inside the SUV began shooting.

The 15-year-old suffered gunshot wounds to the side and arm. The 16-year-old was shot in the foot, Pohlmann said. Two firearms were used. The younger teen was still hospitalized in stable condition as of Monday.

Detectives are running down leads in the case and have heard that the shootings may be linked to an ongoing feud between two groups, Pohlmann said.

Authorities expected a record crowd for this year's Crawfish Festival because of the recent easing of COVID-19 restrictions, Pohlmann said. He didn't have exact figures, but estimated that about 100,000 people attended the four-day fete.

The Sheriff's Office had beefed up security accordingly, Pohlmann said. There were 60 deputies on hand, inside and outside of the festival grounds.

He office plans to meet with festival organizers about what can be done to improve safety, perhaps including security checks at the gate.

"My big concern is weapons," Pohlmann said. "Look what happened, just the sheer panic and the stampede. I can only imagine if it had been an active shooter situation."

Anyone with information about the stampede or the Patricia Street shooting can call the St. Bernard Sheriffs Office at (504) 271-2501 or its Criminal Investigations Bureaus tip hotline, (504) 271-TIPS or 8477 where callers can leave a detailed message, and either choose to provide their contact information, or remain anonymous.
President Joe Biden has argued his wide-ranging, $2.3 trillion infrastructure plan is a solution to decades of underinvestment in roads, pipes and other major projects throughout the country.

When he visits New Orleans on Thursday, he'll have the perfect backdrop for how ancient, failing infrastructure can have a direct impact on a city and its residents: the Sewerage & Water Board's Carrollton Plant.

Biden plans to visit the South Claiborne Avenue S&WB campus on his trip through Louisiana, according to a public schedule provided by the White House Monday. The location is home to the utility's water purification equipment. It also houses its turbines, more than half of which have broken down in the past year even as the S&WB relies on them to power its network of pumps.

Local officials have been eagerly eyeing money from the infrastructure plan, which has not yet been debated by Congress, as a solution to the many woes caused by the S&WBs aging equipment and crumbling pipes.

Any money would come on top of $375 million New Orleans is already expected to receive from Bidens coronavirus relief package, known as the American Rescue Plan, which passed on a party line vote earlier this year.

The Carrollton Plant serves as the center of the S&WBs water and drainage operations and houses its century-old power turbines, which provide electricity on the unusual standard used by about half the pumps in the city.

President Biden to visit New Orleans, Lake Charles on Thursday; will promote infrastructure plan President Joe Biden is coming to New Orleans and Lake Charles on Thursday to promote his plan to rebuild the nations bridges, highways, ports

Neither the White House, the S&WB nor Mayor LaToya Cantrells office responded to questions about the planned visit on Monday.

Though the administration has been coy about the visit, City Council member Joe Giarrusso, who chairs the committee that oversees the S&WB, said he welcomed it.

The president has repeatedly campaigned and governed on restoring infrastructure with an emphasis on sewer and water and we all know the equipment at the water plant dates back all the way to World War I, said Giarrusso. Having federal dollars to upgrade any part of the sewer, water or drainage system is a welcome relief and needed resources.

The problems at the S&WB pre-date Cantrell, who came into office promising to fix the S&WBs drainage system after a summer storm in August 2017 led to massive citywide flooding and exposed the system's vulnerabilities.

She secured an early win in the form of a multi-million dollar agreement with the hospitality industry and the state that diverted additional hotel taxes towards infrastructure. But the situation at the S&WB is in some ways as dire now as it was when she was elected.

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The S&WB is currently running on just two of the five turbines it has at its Carrollton plant, plus five large back up generators. That leaves it just barely better off than when power issues contributed to the 2017 flooding.

+3 $375M in relief aid is headed to New Orleans, an 'extraordinary' step in stabilizing finances New Orleans is set to receive a whopping $375 million from the federal coronavirus relief legislation passed last week, an infusion equal to m

The current precarious situation was kicked off in late 2019, when one of its turbines exploded. Then, as the city was preparing for a direct strike from Hurricane Zeta, another turbine had a problem with one of its bearings and was taken out of commission.

A third turbine hung on until the middle of that storm before it failed.

S&WB officials have repeatedly promised that some of those turbines would be repaired in time for the start of the 2021 hurricane season on June 1, with at least one scheduled to come on line early this month. The S&WB hasn't publicly disclosed the status of those repairs.

In the longer term, the S&WB is working on bringing two more turbines online before making a switch to using Entergy New Orleans as its primary power source, a project that could take several years and tens of millions of dollars.

And it is slowly addressing the replacement of underground water mains and other aging pipes, some of which are a century old. Officials have said completing all of the necessary replacements of the pipes beneath more about 1,500 miles of road in the city would cost billions.

The trip is Biden's first to Louisiana since starting his term, though he visited New Orleans during while serving as former President Barrack Obama's vice-president and during his campaign against former President Donald Trump.

The schedule released by the White House shows Biden heading to Lake Charles, still recovering from last year's hurricanes, to talk about the American Jobs Plan before heading to New Orleans. The S&WB is listed as the main stop in the city.

It's not yet clear whether Biden will spend time on the trip visiting the other side of Claiborne Avenue, which received a high-profile mention in the roll-out to the infrastructure plan.

Press releases sent out when the plan was unveiled specifically called for the removal of Interstate 10 over N. Claiborne Avenue, singling out the stretch of highway built through the center of Treme as an example of racist planning practices.
The Frontier is a nonprofit, independent news source based in Tulsa. Frontier content is republished in The Transcript through a special content agreement. For more information on The Frontier, visit readfrontier.org.
Staff Writer

Reese Gorman covers elections, local politics and the COVID-19 pandemic for The Norman Transcript. He started as an intern in May of 2020 and transitioned into his current position as a staff writer in August of 2020.
Harrisburg, Pa. - On April 29, the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry announced 2021 recipients of Digital Literacy and Workforce Development Grants, which will provide technology training for Pennsylvania workers.

Bradford County was awarded $41,363; Sullivan County $10,432; and Susquehanna County $21,019. Similar grants given statewide totaled $1.3 million.

Local programs in Bradford, Sullivan, and Susquehanna Counties will be implemented by the Northern Tier Workforce Development Board, which will collaborate with established partners to provide digital literacy instruction to underserved communities. Services will be provided through a combination of enhanced mobile service and cohort training.

It is critical that people looking for work have the necessary skills to do so, said Rep. Tina Pickett (R-Bradford/Sullivan/Susquehanna). The training programs supported by this funding will teach them how to search and apply for jobs online, upload a resume, and post a professional profile on networking sites.

Pennsylvania employers need workers with the skills to navigate the new economy emerging in the wake of the global COVID-19 pandemic, said Acting L&I Secretary Jennifer Berrier.

The Digital Literacy and Workforce Development Grants will help ensure that workers develop the basic digital skills they need to succeed when applying for jobs and performing essential job duties that will be required of them in their new career.

The training programs will operate from July 1, 2021 to September 30, 2022.
Harrisburg, Pa. - A WPXI-TV/Target 11 investigation that aired last Thursday revealed that more than 70,000 Pennsylvanians had their personal information accessible on the internet after answering calls from employees of Insight Global, which was awarded a no-bid contract by the Pennsylvania Department of Health to conduct contract tracing surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic.

Rep. Jason Ortitay (R-Washington/Allegheny), along with House Majority Whip Donna Oberlander (R-Clarion/Armstrong/Forest) and Majority Leader Kerry Benninghoff (R-Centre/Mifflin), have called for a full, independent investigation.

In addition to serious concerns about the various consequences of the data breach and how residents may be affected, the lawmakers said they are also troubled by the lack of urgency by Governor Wolf's administration.

When Ortitay became aware of the issue on April 1, he said he contacted the governors office, was told that months ago someone else raised the same issue and that the claims of a breach were false.

Early in the week of April 19 when the reporter reached out to the Department of Health requesting an interview for his story, the governors administration then acknowledged to the reporter that a breach of confidential personal information had occurred and then immediately shut it down.

Insight Global received the $29 million no-bid contract for contact tracing under Wolfs emergency declaration powers and runs through July.

Why didnt the department or the governors office take action when they were notified months earlier and again by me in early April? Ortitay asked.

How many more people had their information compromised because the governors administration failed to act immediately? Also, why isnt the department immediately terminating the contract of this company? Who is going to trust them moving forward? We need a full investigation.

Although it has come out this did not expose any financial details or social security numbers, information that was exposed has the potential to still be exploited by cybercriminals.

The lawmakers feel that an independent investigation, either at the state or federal level, is necessary in order to hold all the involved parties accountable. The request includes a look by the state attorney generals office, the House Government Oversight Committee and even any federal law enforcement agencies with appropriate jurisdiction.

On top of other mistakes within other state agencies, this administration has fought Right-to-Know requests and has hidden behind the antiquated Disease Control and Prevention Act and the governors ongoing disaster emergency declarations. Its beyond time for the governor and his administration to stop being so secretive.

This contract was issued under sole-sourcing no-bid contract authority of the governors emergency disaster declaration. That means that the Wolf administration did not need to seek other bids, did not have seek better security maintenance, and did not have additional scrutiny over the issuance of this contract, Benninghoff said.
Corvallis, OR (97331)

Today

Sunshine and clouds mixed. Slight chance of a rain shower. High 67F. SSE winds shifting to NW at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

A few clouds overnight. Low 43F. Winds W at 10 to 15 mph.
Harrisburg, Pa.  Attorney General Josh Shapiro recently announced the arrest of two individuals for allegedly seeking sexual contact with undercover law enforcement agents posing as minors.

These arrests are the result of an undercover investigation conducted by the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) and Robinson Township Police concerning online child exploitation and human trafficking throughout western Pennsylvania.

Our Organized Crime Unit has been very active in investigating human trafficking cases across Pennsylvania, and will continue to prosecute offenders who exploit children and create a market for human trafficking, said Shapiro. Thanks to strong collaboration with our local law enforcement partners, we will hold these individuals accountable for their crimes, and uncover child predators  wherever we find them.

On April 22, agents from the OAG and Robinson Township Police arrested John Carter, 58, for his alleged efforts to solicit sexual services from an agent posing as a minor boy and an adult male trafficker. He was charged with one count of unlawful contact with a minor, one count of attempted patronizing a victim of sexual servitude, one count of attempted involuntary deviate sexual intercourse and one count of criminal use of a communications facility.

The next day, as part of a similar investigation, agents and Robinson Township Police also arrested Simon Whaby, 55, for his alleged efforts to solicit sexual services from an agent posing as a minor and an adult trafficker. He is being charged with one count of unlawful contact with a minor, one count of attempted patronizing a victim of sexual servitude, one count of attempted statutory sexual assault, and one count of criminal use of a communication facility.

The cases are being prosecuted by Senior Deputy Attorney General Summer Carroll. All charges are accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. Both preliminary hearings will be held on May 11, 2021. This investigation was assisted by the OAGs Child Predator Section. When any individual is involved in or benefits from selling a minor for sex, that is considered human trafficking under state and federal laws. These defendants allegedly agreed to pay a minor for sex knowing they were a victim of human trafficking.

Earlier this month in Washington County, the OAG announced the guilty verdict in a separate human trafficking case. The defendant, St. Patrick Earl Levy, was found guilty of two counts of felony human trafficking of a minor and all underlying counts of promoting prostitution, corruption of minors and living off of prostitutes. The case was prosecuted by Senior Deputy Attorney General Katherine Wymard.
State College, Pa.  Pennsylvania State Police at Rockview troopers were led on a 16-mile chase after an out-of-state driver refused to exit his vehicle.

David Lawson Jones, 51, of Fort Myers, Fla., was charged with a third-degree felony of fleeing or attempting to elude officers, a second-degree misdemeanor of recklessly endangering another person, misdemeanor marijuana possession, misdemeanor use or possession of drug paraphernalia, three separate first-degree misdemeanor DUI charges, and five summary traffic offenses.

Jones was denied bail and held at the Centre County Prison.

Trooper Shane Eichelberger said he observed Jones traveling on I-99 South on April 20, a little past noon. Eichelberger said Jones was traveling in a van with tinted windows and a taillight out.

Troopers said they initiated a traffic stop and pulled Jones over. According to the report, a strong odor of alcohol could be detected as Troopers approached the vehicle.

Troopers said they observed an empty case of Bud Light on the floor of the vehicle. Officers then asked Jones to exit the vehicle, to which he allegedly replied no and drove off.

Troopers pursued Jones for 16 miles that included going through a construction zone at nearly 95 mph, according to troopers. Jones eventually lost control of the vehicle when troopers deployed spike strips.

According to the report, Jones lost control of the vehicle, crossed into the northbound lane, and came to a stop after striking an embankment. Jones was cleared at the scene by EMS and transported to Mount Nittany Medical Center for a blood draw.

Troopers said Jones refused and a warrant was applied for and approved. According to the report, Jones was slow and sluggish and had difficulty staying awake during the blood draw.

Jones is scheduled to appear before Judge Kelley Gillette-Walker at 8:30 a.m. on May 5.
State College, Pa.  A 44-year-old State College man was denied bail and negotiated a guilty plea in a drug conspiracy case that led to the discovery of 1,450 baggies of heroin.

Larry Alfonso David was charged with several felonies stemming from an investigation that started in 2020. State College Police officers said an undercover informant purchased crack cocaine and heroin from David and another person on several occasions.

Detective Donald Paul of the State College Police Department said in July 2020 he developed a confidential informant who advised him David was selling large amounts of cocaine, heroin, methamphetamines, and other drugs within the State College area.

The informant told officers he had purchased drugs from David at least 10 times over a five-to-six month span. Detectives said the informant showed them messages on Facebook and his phone that confirmed his statements.

Detectives said they setup several controlled buys over the course of a few months. According to the report, officers were able to obtain a search warrant for Davids vehicle on April 22 of this year.

On April 23, detectives followed David as he traveled on Route 322 toward State College. Pennsylvania State Police initiated a traffic stop just prior to the vehicle turning onto the East College Avenue exit.

Detectives said a search of the vehicle yielded 29 individual bricks of suspected heroin wrapped in magazine paper. According to the report, each brick contained five bundles that consisted of 10 glassine bags. Each brick was stamped with B&B BREAD & BUTTER.

Detectives said there were 1,450 baggies of suspected heroin in the trunk of the vehicle. Officers also located 65.5 grams of marijuana in the center console.

According to the report, officers found 8.6 grams of marijuana on David along with seven 30mg Oxycodone Hydrochloride pills and two capsules of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine.

David was charged two counts of felony manufacture, delivery, or possession with intent to manufacture or deliver a controlled substance, two counts of misdemeanor intentional possession of a controlled substance, and one count of misdemeanor marijuana possession.

David also has an active case in Centre County court for charges of misdemeanor intentional possession of a controlled substance, misdemeanor marijuana possession, and tamper with or fabricate physical evidence.

He is scheduled to appear in Centre County Court for sentencing on May 14 and a criminal pre-trail conference on May 17. Records show Davis was denied bail and is currently being held at the Centre County Prison.
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Education

Rome City Schools to monitor summer COVID trend before setting next year's policy

Olivia Morley Rome City Schools Superintendent Lou Byars talks to Education Board Chair Faith Collins (right) at the spring work retreat about their plans for the 2021-2022 school year.

The Rome City Schools Board of Education will not be making any decisions regarding COVID-19 guidelines and mandates until the summer.

Members discussed the issue during their spring work retreat Saturday.

However, Superintendent Lou Byars said he wants to see what the state of the pandemic will be over the summer before they decide on their mask and social distancing policies for the next school year.

Last year, we thought we were going to be in the clear after the summer, Byars said. That obviously wasnt the case so we want to wait, for now.

Byars said about 500 out of their 850 employees have been vaccinated. Theyve became a little more lenient with some of the vaccinated staff, such as not requiring masks in small meetings with fully vaccinated employees and no quarantines for vaccinated employees potentially exposed to someone whos tested positive for the disease.

Board member Melissa Davis, who is also a medical doctor, said the area is still nowhere near attaining herd immunity. She said the board still needs to be clear in their policies when it comes to masks and procedures.

Dont back off on these recommendations and policies because thats when people become more hesitant about the virus and masks, Davis said.

They will still offer a virtual option for next school year, which the administration describes as a separate program, but not a separate school.

As of right now, they have small registration numbers for virtual learning for next year. Byars said that fits well with their plan to put all students at the same grade level in the same class online. For example, all third graders in the virtual program will be in the same class.

This will only apply to the elementary and middle school students. High schoolers opting for online instruction will be in the Georgia Virtual School program.

The board also went into closed session about halfway through the work retreat to discuss personnel and property. No action was taken.
Cedartown, GA (30125)

Today

Cloudy skies this morning followed by scattered showers and thunderstorms during the afternoon. High 84F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms this evening followed by occasional showers overnight. Low 69F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.
Rome, GA (30161)

Today

A few showers this morning with numerous thunderstorms developing during the afternoon hours. High around 85F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%. Locally heavy rainfall possible..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms this evening followed by occasional showers overnight. Low near 70F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.
Fans closer to downtown Orlando looking to eat away from the restaurant might soon be able to get sliders in a different way. White Castles ghost kitchen, which does not have a dining room, will most likely reopen in the next six to eight weeks, according to vice president Jamie Richardson.
As our industry and community continue to bounce back, we have welcomed back thousands of cast members to work and have also restarted our recruitment efforts amid a tight labor market at Walt Disney World. Both of these measures are important indicators toward fully reopening our businesses and getting more people back to work, the company said on its website Monday, to announce the College Programs return.
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 has seemingly appeared in numerous screenshots possibly taken from an official promo video. The leaked images reveal that the Galaxy Z Fold 3, which will apparently go into production in July, has an under display camera and restrained look to it. Buyers will get to select from four colors for the foldable phone. Update: Designer Ben Geskin has created a clear render based on the current leaked images.

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Update: Noted concept designer Ben Geskin has created a render of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 based on the leaked screenshots (see embedded Tweet below).

Original story:

Leaked images of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 have appeared online at the same time as some blurry shots of renders of the Galaxy Z Flip 3. An image that was likely originally labeled with strictly confidential or similar shows three Galaxy Z Fold 3 phones in their folded form revealing their camera setups and color choices. More images show the device fully opened and being used in a semi-folded (laptop) form in conjunction with an S Pen.

Along with being shown in green, black, and silver, it appears the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 will also be made available in beige. The closed design is quite reserved in its looks, with the foldable phone sporting a tidy triple-camera arrangement rather than a less subtle camera bump like the one found on the Galaxy S21 Ultra. In addition, S Pen support is seemingly confirmed here, with a tech tipster stating that the input device will have a rounder tip than the one used for the Galaxy Note series.

Interestingly, while the Galaxy Z Flip successor will apparently be lumbered with a punch-hole camera, it appears the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 wont be burdened with such a blemish. One of the images clearly states its the first foldable with Under Display Camera, which will certainly excite those users craving a full-screen display on their Samsung Galaxy device of choice.

Buy the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 on Amazon
Richard Kennedy announced his candidacy on Friday for Shawnee supervisor at the Frederick County Public Safety Building.
A criminal complaint filed by the FBI accuses Verdejo of punching Keishla Rodriguez in the face and injecting her with a syringe filled with an unidentified substance bought at a public housing complex. It alleges he then bound her arms and feet with wire and tied a heavy block to her before throwing her off a bridge at 8:30 a.m. Thursday.
SOUTH HAVEN  One Porter County sheriff's officer was placed on paid leave after a man was shot and died following an encounter with police Saturday night inside his South Haven home, an official said.

Department protocol required the officer be placed on paid leave, Cpl. Benjamin McFalls said.

Alexander Tuzinski, 30, suffered a gunshot wound during the encounter and later died at Northwest Health-Porter hospital, according to the Porter County coroner's office.

His manner of death was pending further investigation.

The situation began about 6 p.m. Saturday, when Porter County sheriff's police were dispatched for a 911 call about a disturbance at Tuzinski's residence in the 700 block of Long Run Road in South Haven, Indiana State Police said.

After several hours, attempts were made to contact a man inside the home, police said.

When those attempts at communication were unsuccessful, officers entered the home and found a man in a bedroom with a handgun, police said.

"During this encounter, the male subject sustained a gunshot wound," police said.
CROWN POINT  A Lake Criminal Court jury found a Hammond man guilty of murdering a man outside a Gary nightclub last fall and attempting to murder a police officer.

Fredrick Craft Jr., 31, stood trial last week on charges linked to the shootout Sept. 27 outside the Loft nightclub in the 700 block of Broadway.

Kevin Blackmon, 28, of Gary, was killed in the shooting.

Craft, who was wearing a bullet-proof vest, was shot by Gary police Officer Martin Garza after Craft refused to comply with the officer's orders to drop a gun.

Lake County Deputy Prosecutors Jessica Arnold and Maureen Koonce agreed with Craft and his attorney, Mark Gruenhagen, to schedule a bench trial later this month before Judge Diane Boswell on a firearm enhancement, a spokesman for the prosecutor's office said.

If convicted of the enhancement, Craft could face an additional five to 20 years. That sentence would run consecutively to his sentences on the murder and attempted murder counts, which carry possible penalties of 45 to 65 years and 20 to 40 years, respectively.

Craft's sentencing will be scheduled sometime after his bench trial on the firearm enhancement, the prosecutor's office said.
The Time's reporter partner NBC 5 Chicago reported police believed the barricaded man may be have been wounded and there was no immediate threat to the community as the standoff continued Monday.

Calumet City police were dispatched about 1:30 p.m. Sunday to a mobile home in the 100 block of State Street for a report of a gunshot victim, Interim Police Chief Kevin Kolosh said.

A 62-year-old man was located and transported to a hospital, he said. The man's condition was not known Sunday night.

Officers learned the situation began as confrontation between the victim and a 52-year-old man, who retreated into a residence in the 100 block of Maple Court after the shooting, officials said.

The 52-year-old fired shots at responding officers, who retreated to positions of cover and did not return fire, police said.

The South Suburban Emergency Task Force was activated, and a SWAT team responded to the scene, officials said.

The situation was believed to be isolated, Howard said.

Traffic restrictions were in place at the mobile home park, and Illinois State Police were assisting with traffic control.
CALUMET CITY  Police were negotiating Sunday night with a man who barricaded himself inside a residence at a mobile home park after a 62-year-old man was shot, city officials said.

Calumet City police were dispatched about 1:30 p.m. to a mobile home in the 100 block of State Street for a report of a gunshot victim, Interim Police Chief Kevin Kolosh said.

The 62-year-old man was located and transported to a hospital, he said. The man's condition was not known Sunday night.

Officers learned the situation began as confrontation between the victim and a 52-year-old man, who retreated into a residence in the 100 block of Maple Court after the shooting, officials said.

The 52-year-old fired shots at responding officers, who retreated to positions of cover and did not return fire, police said.

The South Suburban Emergency Task Force was activated, and a SWAT team responded to the scene, officials said.

Negotiators were still working at the scene Sunday evening.

The situation was believed to be isolated, city spokesman Sean Howard said.

Traffic restrictions were in place at the mobile home park, and Illinois State Police were assisting with traffic control.
Even one fire raises concerns for city officials about the safety of residents and first responders, the mayor said.

If the fires are determined to be arson, it's disheartening to think someone could have such little regard for others' safety, Prince said.

Prince said he stayed up late, receiving updates on the fires and several weekend shootings.

Despite the city's limited resources, firefighters and police responded "absolutely accordingly" and did the best they could, he said.

"We have to commend the men and women that do their job on a daily basis with the limited resources they have at their fingertips," Prince said. "They do a pretty remarkable job, and without much fanfare."

Anyone with more information on the fires is asked to call Gary fire investigators at 219-881-5220.

Check back at nwi.com for updates as they become available.

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A 2017 East Chicago ordinance intended to offer a hospitable message to immigrants amid what was considered anti-immigrant rhetoric of Republican former President Donald Trump is incompatible with state law.

Lake Superior Judge Thomas Hallett last week determined portions of the East Chicago "Welcoming City" ordinance run afoul of a state statute prohibiting so-called "sanctuary cities," or localities that decline as a matter of policy to fully cooperate with federal immigration enforcement measures.

Specifically, Hallett said the city ordinance provisions limiting information sharing and law enforcement cooperation directly contravene a 2011 Indiana law requiring counties, cities, towns and educational institutions to aid federal immigration officers.

The ordinance was challenged by prominent conservative attorney James Bopp Jr., of Terre Haute, on behalf of two Lake County residents, Greg Serbon and John Allen. Republican Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita, a Munster native, supported the challenge.

"Indiana's law banning sanctuary cities in Indiana clearly bans what the city of East Chicago and other Hoosier cities have done with so-called 'Welcoming City' ordinances," Bopp said.
Members of the Indiana House raised more than $7,500 and collected more than 1,100 food items during this year's legislative session to donate to Feeding Indiana's Hungry, an association of 11 Hoosier food banks, including the Food Bank of Northwest Indiana.

State representatives also volunteered at local food banks as part of the House's 11th consecutive joint service project for Republican and Democratic lawmakers, a tradition begun in 2011 by retired House Speaker Brian Bosma, R-Indianapolis.

In Merrillville, state Rep. Hal Slager, R-Schererville, and state Rep. Julie Olthoff, R-Crown Point, recently spent a day helping pack food items into boxes and load the boxes into the vehicles of food-insecure Hoosiers visiting the Region's food bank.

"Local food banks like the one here in Northwest Indiana do a phenomenal job collecting and providing necessary items for Hoosiers in need," Olthoff said.

"Thankfully, with the help from food banks and Feeding Indiana's Hungry, meals are being donated in large numbers to support struggling individuals and families throughout the state."

The Food Bank of Northwest Indiana serves Lake and Porter counties. Its most needed items include macaroni and cheese, canned proteins and peanut butter.
An investigation into why the boat capsized remains ongoing, Brock said.

Anyone who spots the Bayliner or any items that may be associated with it is asked to call Indiana Conservation Police at 812-837-9536.

Times staff writer Sarah Reese contributed to this story.

Check nwi.com for updates as more information becomes available.
This guy had no clue who these people were, said Orlando police Chief Orlando Rolon at a press conference Monday. ... No connection between the two, except you have one individual who felt the power to take the life of another human being simply because he initially was upset that he was coming through the crowd. Thats unacceptable.
GARY  Jonathan Harris, a co-owner of Beggars Pizza, recalled a meeting two years ago with the Rev. Maurice White Jr.

The pastor of Beyond 4 Walls Christian Center in the Miller area approached Harris about opening a business in a strip mall beside the church at 847 S. Lake St.

Harris, already opening a pizzeria in Gary, questioned the pastors suggestion, only to learn, When God says something will be, it will be.

Two years later, Beggars Pizza is among eight businesses moving into that strip mall. Harris, other future tenants, other business and city officials broke ground Sunday for the 12,000-square-foot Harvest Square Strip Mall.

I give all honor and glory to the Lord today, White said amid a field of balloons and honking car horns.

The project, scheduled for completion in six months and expected to create 80 jobs, according to White, will cost roughly $1.2 million. All of that, White stressed, is coming from church households without any fundraisers.

The pastor said this project could be something special, with its message carrying well beyond Gary borders.
During the approximately 15 months since January 2020, I am not aware of you attempting to speak with leadership within the LaPorte building trades, and you have not attempted to speak with my office, Fagan wrote. It is my understanding that previous Michigan City mayors have worked with the trades, which added value and success.

Fagan also noted that Parry hasnt organized a job fair requesting the Operating Engineers participation.

We will initiate dialogue with the appropriate residents of Michigan City but will not request your participation due to your lack of credibility on such subject matter, as shown by your recent finger-pointing, he wrote.

Resident Robin Surbers letter was critical of Parrys voicemail and his comments during a subsequent meeting with the Michigan City Spiritual Task Force.

Surber requested the council tack on five minutes at each meeting for Parry to discuss what he has been learning and give the public the opportunity to ask questions regarding his training in diversity and inclusion.

For example, a member of the public may ask if you have learned about implicit bias. If you have, you can elaborate on that, and if you havent, you can jot that down and discuss it in your next training, Surber wrote.
SOUTH HAVEN  A 30-year-old man died Saturday night after he was shot during an encounter with police at a South Haven home, officials said.

Alexander Tuzinski was taken to Northwest Health-Porter hospital, where he was pronounced dead about 11:50 p.m., according to the Porter County coroner's office.

His cause and manner of death were pending further investigation.

The situation began about 6 p.m., when Porter County sheriff's police were dispatched for a 911 call about a disturbance at Tuzinski's residence in the 700 block of Long Run Road in South Haven, Indiana State Police said.

After several hours, attempts were made to contact a man inside the home, police said.

When those attempts at communication were unsuccessful, officers entered the home and found a man in a bedroom with a handgun, police said.

"During this encounter, the male subject sustained a gunshot wound," police said.

Porter County sheriff's police asked Indiana State Police to investigate the officer-involved shooting, according to ISP.
Russias troubled vaccine diplomacy

Russias Sputnik V vaccine, the first in the world to be registered, has been spreading disarray and division in Europe.

When Igor Matovic, the Slovakian prime minister, ordered two million doses of the Russian vaccine to fight Slovakias coronavirus outbreak, his effort soon blew up in his face, costing him his job and almost toppling the whole government  just three months after Slovakia adopted a new security strategy rooted in unequivocal support for NATO and wariness of Russia.

Instead of receiving plaudits, Matovic was accused of cutting a deal with Russia behind ministers backs, breaking ranks with the European bloc and succumbing to what his foreign minister described as a Russian tool of hybrid war that casts doubt on work with the E.U.

Details: Similar altercations have occurred across Europe: Conversations between the French and Russian leaders over potential orders were subsequently derided by Frances foreign minister, who called the vaccine a propaganda tool. And the leaders of Austria and Germany have clashed over the E.U.s failure to register the jab. The bloc has urged member states to hold off on orders until approval is granted.
Those post-mortems were endless: In 2016, the media covered an outsider, celebrity candidate by a different set of standards, and simultaneously allowed him to suck all the energy out of the race.

In New York in 2021, even a depleted local press corps has covered Mr. Yang skeptically, each outlet in its own way. The Daily News put his rabid and unruly supporters on its front page. The New York Post roasted his eagerness to hire his rivals to actually run the city. Politico documented his courtship of conservative media. And this weekend, Brian Rosenthal and Katie Glueck of The New York Times exposed a wide gap between the promise and reality of the nonprofit he founded. Now, aides to other candidates said, he has become the central target as they scramble to take him down in the six weeks that remain before the primary election.

Still, the local media is wrestling with how to avoid allowing coverage of one candidate to eclipse the rest of the field, even if Mr. Yang is not in the same ideological universe as Donald Trump, said Jere Hester, the editor in chief of the nonprofit news organization The City.

Theres a residual wariness among the media about being careful not to uncritically help elevate someone whos more celebrity than proven public servant, he said.

The rise of Mr. Yang, like an optimistic helium balloon, has been disconcerting to the denizens of New Yorks once-savage media-political scene. The New York mayoralty used to be one of the great prizes in American politics, won by candidates tough enough to survive the second-fiercest press corps in the country, after the White House. But local news here, as everywhere, has been in decline for years, and Michael Bloombergs billions showed that a candidate could sidestep the historically hostile gaggle of reporters and reach city voters through expensive television ads instead. Mayor Bill de Blasio, too, has brushed off fierce and unrelenting opposition from The Post, which despite being still lively and well-funded, has lost some of its killing power.
AUSTIN, Texas  Democrats hoping for some encouraging signs in Texas did not find any on Saturday in a special election to fill a vacant congressional seat. Instead, they found themselves locked out of a runoff that will now see two Republicans battle for the seat in northern Texas.

The two Republicans  Susan Wright, who was endorsed by President Donald J. Trump, and State Representative Jake Ellzey  emerged as the top vote-getters in a 23-candidate, all-party special election to replace Mrs. Wrights husband, U.S. Representative Ron Wright, who this year became the first congressman to die of Covid-19.

Jana Lynne Sanchez, a Democrat who made a surprisingly strong showing for the seat in 2018 and was considered by many as a likely cinch for the runoff, came in a close third, leaving the two Republicans to fight for the seat that their party has controlled for nearly four decades.

Democrats who needed a strong turnout to be competitive did not get one. They were hoping for signs of weakness in the Republican brand because of the states disastrous response to the brutal winter storm in February or any signs of weariness with Mr. Trump, but they did not see that, either.
One of Indias feistiest opposition parties cruised to victory in a crucial state elections in West Bengal on Sunday, dealing a blow to Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a campaign held during a catastrophic Covid-19 surge.

Top parties, including Mr. Modis Bharatiya Janata organization, had campaigned relentlessly in West Bengal, one of Indias most populous states and a stronghold of opposition to Mr. Modi, Indias most powerful prime minister in decades. Mr. Modi and other politicians held enormous rallies up and down the state, which critics said helped spread the virus.

Many Indians were stunned that the elections were even held. The entire country is facing its greatest crisis in decades, experiencing vast sickness and death from a second wave of the virus. Hospitals are so full that people are dying in the streets.

Cremation grounds are working day and night, burning thousands of bodies. The country is rife with the more lethal and more transmissible B.1.1.7 variant of the coronavirus first found in Britain, as well as a homegrown variant, B.1.617. Experts are worried that the unchecked outbreak will spawn more dangerous variants.
It was February 2004 when Hernandez lured his friend, Jaime Gough, also 14, into a bathroom stall at Southwood Middle in Palmetto Bay, a suburban city south of Miami. He stabbed Jaime more than 40 times in a case that shocked South Florida and the nation.
For American Ballet Theater, the path back to New York City stretches 3,100 miles and winds through 14 states. The company announced on Monday it will embark on a tour of the United States this summer that will culminate in a performance in Manhattan on July 21.

We missed out on celebrating our 80th anniversary, but were going to end this tour at Rockefeller Center, where we performed our inaugural performance on January 11, 1940, Kevin McKenzie, Ballet Theaters artistic director, said in an interview. It feels like a little bit of poetic justice thats going to be a nice prelude to a very new and different future for us.

The companys journey will begin at Pioneers Park in Lincoln, Neb., on July 1. From there, the troupe will travel  in six sleeper buses and three production trucks  to Iowa City; Chicago; Minneapolis; St. Louis; Charleston, S.C.; and Middleburg, Va. The final show in New York will be the first time that Ballet Theater has mounted a stage in the city since Oct. 27, 2019, the end of its fall season at the David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center.

The idea for the tour originated with David Lansky, the companys general manager, when it became clear to Ballet Theaters leaders that the pandemic was not going to be resolved quickly. It was inspired, McKenzie said, by the groups early history. Throughout the 40s and 50s, Ballet Theater often crisscrossed the country in a bus. But it was only after the company determined it could keep its dancers, staff and crew safe with sequestered residency bubbles in the second half of 2020 that traveling and performing again became a real possibility.
Patrick OConnell, who as the founding director of Visual AIDS, an advocacy group that supports artists living with the disease, helped shatter the stigma surrounding AIDS in the 1990s with awareness campaigns, including one symbolized by the ubiquitous red ribbon, died on March 23 at a hospital in Manhattan. He was 67.

His brother, Barry, confirmed the death, from AIDS-related causes. Mr. OConnell lived with AIDS for almost 40 years.

In the 1980s, as New York became the epicenter of the AIDS crisis, Mr. OConnell was among a group of gay men in the arts community living in anguish and confusion. Seemingly every month, he found himself attending another friends funeral. On his answering machine, he found messages of despair from those who learned they were sick. The publics acknowledgment of AIDS was muted; the White House was silent.
HIGHER GROUND

By Anke Stelling

Translated by Lucy Jones

Resi is a writer and mother of four in Berlin who has just received her eviction notice. Her friends live together nearby in a building they designed themselves, a cross between commune and architectural showpiece. Resi wrote a book mocking them and their pet project, and now they cannot forgive her. Unfortunately, one of them holds her lease. As she faces the prospect of moving to an unfashionable suburb, she writes a letter to her eldest daughter, Bea. She wants Bea to know that the German promise of equal opportunity is a lie. You cant escape where youre from.

The setup of Anke Stellings new novel, Higher Ground, is also most of the story. Resi  whose name comes from parrhesia, Greek for unfettered speech  spends much of her time in a broom closet, typing angrily. She recalls her mothers early disappointments in love, as well as her own. She writes accusatory letters and deletes them. Its not that she was excluded from the building plan. Her friends asked her to join them and offered to cover the down payment. But she resents the offer, and begrudges them their steady jobs and docile children. Above all she seems to resent herself: for not getting a degree, for marrying another artist, for having four kids and no steady income.
U.S. may never reach herd immunity

There is growing consensus among scientists and public health experts that the notion of herd immunity in the U.S.  a threshold calculated to be at least 80 percent of the population being protected against the coronavirus  may not be reachable in the foreseeable future, and perhaps not ever.

Instead, scientists are coming to the conclusion that the virus will most likely become a smaller, more manageable threat that will continue to circulate for years. How much smaller depends on how much of the nation, and the world, becomes vaccinated, and how the virus evolves.

Its just really a shift in thinking, but it doesnt mean that we should despair, Apoorva Mandavilli, who reported on the new focus, told our Coronavirus Briefing newsletter.

Path forward: Vaccinations, especially for people at highest risk, will be key to limiting the severity of outbreaks. Over a generation or two, the goal is for the virus to become more like common colds.
If they do not and instead maintain a hybrid approach, it will exact a heavy cost on American women. The biggest issue of gender equality in 2021 may well be whether schools return to near-normal this fall.

Fully opening schools is the single most important thing, my colleague Claire Cain Miller, who writes about gender and work, told me. Obviously, parents cant get back to work without that.

Its not enough to sort of open, said Emily Oster, an economist at Brown University who studies parenting. We are going to need to figure out how to make it possible to open normally.

Is it safe to open?

Fortunately, the available evidence indicates that schools can safely return to normal hours in the fall. Nearly all teachers have already had the chance to be vaccinated. By August, all children who are at least 12 are also likely to have had the opportunity. (The Pfizer vaccine is now available to people 16 and up, and federal regulators appear set to approve it for 12- to 15-year-olds in coming weeks.)

Few younger children  maybe none  will have been vaccinated by the fall. But data from both the U.S. and other countries suggests that children rarely infect each other at school. One reason is that Covid-19 tends to be mild for younger children, making them less likely to be symptomatic and contagious.
But others say the precariousness of the businesses is the broader question.

The bigger issue is the uncertainty over the industrys future, said Thierry Gregoire, the owner of NT Hotel Gallery group, which owns five hotels and three restaurants around Toulouse. Will things stay open, or could there be another shutdown because of a new virus?

For those already facing signs of a labor squeeze, its now clear that a generous state-subsidized furlough scheme intended to help French employers keep staff on standby has also created unexpected downsides. In the half year in which hospitality employees received 85 percent of their salaries to stay home, many have had ample time to re-evaluate their futures.

Many people are deciding they have other things to do than continue in a profession where nothing has been happening, said Mr. Thiriet, who is also a representative of Frances biggest hospitality trade organization, UMIH, the Union of Hospitality Trades and Industries. He added that thousands of other employers in the organization have reported the same recruiting difficulties.

Catherine Praturlon is among those who decided to shift gears completely during the pandemic. A manager of a hotel in the Moselle region of eastern France for nearly 30 years, she had thought of doing something different but never made the leap.

When the government shuttered hotels on and off for months, and travelers slowed to a trickle, the job became boring, she said. You had no perspective on the future, Mrs. Praturlon said.

Instead of returning from furlough, she recently quit her job and took one in a different industry. (She said a confidentiality agreement prevented her from naming the field.) The pandemic lit a fire under me to make that change, she said.
During his decades-long career, Warren E. Buffett has fielded questions on perhaps the broadest array of topics ever asked of a chief executive. But in more recent years, no question has been more pointed than who would succeed Mr. Buffett as chairman and chief executive of Berkshire Hathaway, the conglomerate he built into a $631 billion colossus.

In a seemingly off-handed way, Mr. Buffett has finally answered that question.

Gregory E. Abel, who oversees Berkshires non-insurance operations, is next in line to lead the company, Mr. Buffett confirmed to CNBC in an interview broadcast on Monday.

The directors are in agreement that if something were to happen to me tonight, it would be Greg whod take over tomorrow morning, said Mr. Buffett, who turns 91 in August.

An assistant to Mr. Buffett did not respond to a request for comment.

It is a time of new challenges for Berkshire, whose operations include a power business long led by Mr. Abel, 59, as well as the Burlington Northern Santa Fe railroad, a vast insurance business and an array of manufacturing and consumer brands.
Because both heat waves and blackouts are becoming more frequent, the probability of a concurrent heat wave and blackout event is very likely rising as well, Dr. Stone said.

So Dr. Stone, along with a team of eight other researchers  from Georgia Tech, Arizona State, the University of Michigan and the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada  set out to gauge the human health consequences when power failures coincide with heat waves.

To do that, they picked three big cities  Atlanta, Detroit and Phoenix  and looked at recorded temperatures during some of their most severe heat waves.

Next, they used computers to model the temperatures in different neighborhoods if those heat waves were to hit at the same time that a citywide blackout disabled air-conditioners.

Crucially, the researchers wanted to know how hot the insides of homes would get under those conditions  something that Dr. Stone said had never been tried before. They collected data showing the building characteristics for every single residential structure in each city  for example, building age, construction material, level of insulation and number of floors.

The results were alarming. In Atlanta, more than 350,000 people, or about 70 percent of residents, would be exposed to indoor temperatures equal to or greater than 32 degrees Celsius (89.6 degrees Fahrenheit), the level at which the National Weather Services heat classification index says heat exhaustion and heat stroke are possible.
Last summer, the chef Daniel Humm made a promise to himself. If he was going to reopen Eleven Madison Park, the Manhattan restaurant that has been called the best in the world, he was not going to return to importing caviar and braising celery root in pigs bladders.

On Monday, Mr. Humm announced that Eleven Madison Park, closed since last March by the pandemic, would reopen with a plant-based menu. It marks a striking departure for one of the most lavishly praised American restaurants of the past 20 years. An institution long known for the technical proficiency of dishes featuring suckling pig, sea urchin and lavender glazed duck will reopen with a menu free of meat and seafood.

Over the last 18 months, scrutiny of meat- and seafood-based diets for environmental and social reasons has intensified as the pandemic has exposed weaknesses in global food systems and underscored inequities in American life. Though Mr. Humm still offers plenty of red meat at his London restaurant, Davies and Brook at Claridges hotel, the move at Eleven Madison Park  which has four stars from The New York Times and three from Michelin  suggests how different fine dining may look as restaurants reopen and reimagine themselves.
The work done by our Cyber Crimes and Digital Forensics Units was phenomenal, Sheriff Rick Staly said. These investigations are lengthy and time-consuming but we are determined to build these cases to protect children and arrest these online predators. This that kind of behavior will not be tolerated in Flagler County.
For nearly three years, Reggie Nadelson has documented a century or so of Manhattan history through visits to her favorite long-running restaurants, bars and shops in a column called the 212 for T: The New York Times Style Magazine. Now she has compiled many of them in Marvelous Manhattan, a book in which she describes the beginnings of places like Raouls, Fanellis, Barney Greengrass and Bemelmans Bar. Its a timely read, recapturing Manhattan as it struggles to return to normal. Her reporting, all from a personal lens, is up-to-date with how various places are responding to the pandemic. Like chocolate chips in a cookie, the book is studded with delicious photos old and new, including Al Pacino exiting Caffe Dante and Giorgio DeLuca shopping for cheese at Di Palos.

Marvelous Manhattan: Stories of the Restaurants, Bars and Shops That Make This City Special by Reggie Nadelson (Artisan Books, $24.95).

Follow NYT Food on Twitter and NYT Cooking on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest. Get regular updates from NYT Cooking, with recipe suggestions, cooking tips and shopping advice.
In the early 1980s, however, MDMA escaped from the clinic to the dance floor, where it became known as Ecstasy. In 1985, the Drug Enforcement Administration criminalized MDMA as a Schedule I substance, defined as having no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse.

Some mental health professionals continued to administer MDMA-assisted therapy underground, but most stopped. The numbers of scientists who pursued studies with MDMA also dwindled. But a few individuals continued to push strongly on behalf of MDMA research, including Dr. Doblin, who founded his association in 1986 to focus on developing MDMA and other psychedelics into medications approved by the F.D.A. It took nearly two decades to overcome alarmist claims about Ecstasys dangers, including that it ate holes in users brains, to finally gain approval to begin studies. Research in animals and humans confirms that MDMA produces no neurotoxic effects at the doses administered in clinical trials.

Ecstasy or Molly, on the other hand, can be adulterated with other potentially dangerous substances, and users may take far higher doses than are safe. In 2011, MDMA accounted for 1.8 percent of all U.S. drug-related emergency department visits, according to a database maintained until that year by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. In Europe, MDMA was responsible for 8 percent of drug-related emergency visits to 16 major hospitals in 10 countries from 2013 to 2014.

Scientists still do not fully understand the source of MDMAs therapeutic effects. The substance binds to proteins that regulate serotonin, a neurotransmitter that can, among other things, lift mood. Antidepressant medications like Prozac bind to these same proteins and block their reabsorption of serotonin, but MDMA takes this process further, causing the proteins to pump serotonin into synapses, strengthening their chemical signal.

MDMA also elevates levels of oxytocin, dopamine and other chemical messengers, producing feelings of empathy, trust and compassion.

But its primary therapeutic effect may come from its seeming ability to reopen what neuroscientists refer to as a critical period, the window during childhood when the brain has the superior ability to make new memories and store them. Evidence from a mouse study published in Nature in 2019 indicates that MDMA may return the adult brain to this earlier state of malleability.

An estimated 7 percent of the U.S. population will experience PTSD at some point in their life, and as many as 13 percent of combat veterans have the condition. In 2018, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs spent $17 billion on disability payments for over one million veterans with PTSD.
Covid-19: F.D.A. to Authorize Pfizer Vaccine for Adolescents by Early Next Week New York, New Jersey and Connecticut will let most businesses fully reopen in mid-May and New York City will return to 24-hour subway service. But the virus continues to rage across the world: A lack of oxygen has led to a wave of deaths in India on Sunday.

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The European Union recommends opening travel to foreigners. Travelers at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport last month. The European Union says it will be open this summer to American travelers who have been fully vaccinated against Covid-19. Credit... Ruth Fremson/The New York Times The European Union will recommend that its member states open borders to travelers who have been fully vaccinated, it said on Monday, clearing the way for the countries to welcome more visitors. Member states are set later this week to debate the proposal, which was issued by the European Commission, the blocs executive arm. Visitors who have received a vaccine approved by the European Unions drug agency would be allowed to travel freely, and individual countries could still impose tougher requirements on visitors, the proposal said. The Commission said that if certain member states were prepared to let in visitors who had tested negative, they should do the same for vaccinated ones. Unvaccinated travelers could still be permitted, but countries could require tests or quarantines. Yet the return of tourism, which the European Commissions president, Ursula von der Leyen, spoke about last Sunday, would be a much-needed boon for countries, particularly those in southern Europe whose economies rely heavily on tourism but have been crippled by shutdowns. The announcement comes more than a year after the first bans on nonessential travel from most countries to the bloc came into effect. A handful of countries with low virus caseloads, including Australia, New Zealand and South Korea, have been exempt from the ban. The Commission said on Monday that it would expand that list by allowing in visitors  regardless of vaccination status  from countries with virus rates higher than the current limit (though still lower than the European Union average). If member states accept the proposal, they would also be able activate an emergency brake mechanism to suspend all travel from outside of the bloc, the Commission said, to avoid the spread of coronavirus variants. Countries including Greece, Spain and France have already said they will open for visitors who can show proof of a vaccination or a negative test. Under the new proposal, visitors would be able to enter the European Union if they received the last recommended dose of an authorized vaccine at least 14 days before arrival. The policy switch was first previewed by Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, in an interview with The New York Times last month, during which she said that vaccinated Americans should be able to visit Europe this summer. The detailed proposal laid out on Monday also confirmed Ms. von der Leyens earlier statements about the important role that the mutual recognition of vaccination certificates will play in resuming international travel.

Deaths mount during an oxygen shortage in India, and a high court intervenes. Oxygen cylinders outside a shop in South Delhi. A court said it would start punishing government officials for failing to deliver oxygen. Credit... Atul Loke for The New York Times A severe shortage of medical oxygen in India has left people gasping for their final breaths in their hospital beds, a sign of government futility in its fight against a crushing wave of coronavirus infections. The latest tragic consequence came on Sunday night, when at least 12 people hospitalized with Covid-19 died in Chamarajanagar, southwestern India, because of a lack of oxygen, according to the regional authorities. Hospital officials were left desperately dialing senior government functionaries and made calls to neighboring officials for help. Videos from the hospital showed relatives of sick patients using towels to fan their loved ones in an attempt to save them. Local officials provided different accounts of the death toll at the hospital. Some said that at least 10 died from oxygen deprivation. Others said that 14 more died after the accident but that they died of comorbidities related to Covid, not directly from the oxygen shortage. Many countries, including Mexico, Nigeria, Egypt and Jordan, have faced oxygen shortages that have led to deadly accidents and driven up virus deaths. The World Health Organization estimated earlier this year that 500,000 people were in need of oxygen supply every day, but that number is likely to be much higher with the outbreak in India. The Indian authorities have said that the country has enough liquid oxygen to meet medical needs and that it is rapidly expanding its supply. But production facilities are concentrated in eastern India, far from the worst outbreaks in New Delhi and in western areas of the country, requiring several days of travel by road. Ritu Priya, a professor at the Center of Social Medicine and Community Health at Jawaharlal Nehru University in New Delhi, called the oxygen shortage a failure of governance. We were not able to channelize oxygen distribution over the past year when that is what we should have been doing, Dr. Priya said. We are living from oxygen cylinder to oxygen cylinder, she said. On Sunday, the New Delhi High Court said that it would start punishing government officials for failing to deliver oxygen after hospitals in the capital successfully sought an injunction, The Associated Press reported. The Supreme Court also weighed in on Sunday, urging the central and state governments to consider another lockdown to gain control of the virus and to create an emergency stockpile of oxygen, according to the Indian news media. Critics have blasted Mr. Modis handling of the crisis. A sudden, harsh lockdown imposed early in the pandemic sent millions of laborers scrambling back to their home villages and disrupted the economy. When cases dropped, Mr. Modis government failed to heed warnings of a potential resurgence from scientists, and its Covid-19 task force did not meet for months. Mr. Modi declared a premature victory over Covid in late January during what proved to be a mere lull in infections. Now, cremation grounds are working day and night, burning thousands of bodies. The country is rife with the more lethal and transmissible B.1.1.7 variant of the coronavirus, first found in Britain, as well as a local variant, B.1.617. Experts are worried that the unchecked outbreak will spawn more dangerous variants of the coronavirus. On Monday, the Indian federal Health Ministry reported 368,147 new cases and 3,417 deaths from the virus, a figure that generally remains low on the first day of the week. India reported new daily cases of as much as 392,488 on Saturday, a tally that no other country has ever seen. The real toll is far higher, according to experts. Indian officials announced over the weekend that the army had opened its hospitals to civilians and that the first batch of the Russian vaccine, Sputnik V, had arrived, a boost to Indias flagging inoculation campaign. Over the weekend, aid from a half-dozen countries arrived at airports across India; it included 157 ventilators from the United Arab Emirates, 500 oxygen cylinders from Taiwan and 1,000 vials of the medicine Remdesivir from Belgium. Video On Sunday, the United States delivered the third of six aid shipments to New Delhi, including 1,000 oxygen cylinders. Britain donated more than 400 oxygen concentrators, and France sent eight oxygen generators, each of which can serve 250 hospitalized patients. Credit Credit... Pool photo by Prakash Singh Vaccines are badly needed in India, where shortages forced several states on Saturday to delay expanding access to everyone aged 18 and over. While it is a global power in vaccine production, India didnt purchase enough doses to protect itself: Less than 2 percent of its 940 million adults have been fully vaccinated. Sameer Yasir and

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The leader of the Chicago public school system will leave after a tumultuous year. Janice K. Jackson, the C.E.O. of the Chicago Public Schools, has decided to leave her post in June, meaning Chicago, New York City and Los Angeles will all see a change in school leadership. Credit... Pool photo by Shafkat Anowar The chief executive officer of the Chicago Public Schools, Janice K. Jackson, will leave her job at the end of June, she said on Monday. Her departure will mean new leaders will take over all three of the largest U.S. school districts  New York City, Los Angeles and Chicago  as the districts try to fully reopen schools and recover from the extreme disruption of the pandemic. The superintendent of the Los Angeles Unified School District, Austin Beutner, said recently that he would also step down at the end of June. Earlier this year, Richard A. Carranza, the former New York City schools chancellor, resigned and was replaced by Meisha Porter, a longtime New York City educator and the first Black woman to lead the nations largest school system. With New York City electing a new mayor later this year, it is unclear if the next mayor will keep Ms. Porter in the role. The pandemic has put superintendents in the middle of local battles over school reopenings, and many are exhausted. Across the country, many district leaders are retiring or resigning this year. The path to reopening in Chicago was particularly fraught, with the teachers union clashing with Dr. Jackson and Mayor Lori Lightfoot over the conditions for having students back in classrooms. All students in Chicago became eligible to attend school in-person beginning on April 19, but many are able to attend only part-time, and a majority of families chose to keep their children learning remotely for the rest of the year. Dr. Jackson was educated in the Chicago Public Schools and has worked for the district for 22 years, as a teacher, principal and chief education officer before becoming C.E.O. As I look back on what weve done, I am both proud and humbled, and also a little tired if Im being honest, she said. She said she would spend her remaining time starting programs to address the challenges students have faced during the pandemic and making sure that the district has solid plans for students to attend school full-time in the fall.

In Canada, residents face long waits for second vaccine doses as cases rise. Lining up for Covid-19 vaccines in Toronto in April. Credit... Chris Helgren/Reuters Naomi Harris plans to drive to Buffalo next week from her home in Toronto to get the second dose of the Pfizer coronavirus vaccine. At home, her second appointment was set for July 1, but she thought that as a caregiver for someone with cancer, that was too long to wait. Canadas slow vaccine rollout has left some people waiting four months between doses. While at least 33 percent of Canadians have received one shot, just three percent are fully vaccinated. New daily cases reached a seven-day average over 8,700 in mid-April, according to a New York Times database, levels not seen since a winter surge. Ontario has been among the hardest hit, reporting 3,700 new cases on Sunday. Ms. Harris, 47, said she had to be very pushy for her mother to get vaccinated in a shorter time than expected. After her mother received a first dose in early March, her second dose was scheduled for June 30, according to Ms. Harris, which was insane because my mom has cancer and is over 80, she said. Eventually, their province of Ontario changed the rules for people with certain types of cancer and Ms. Harriss mother received her second dose in early April. Ms. Harris is eligible for her shot in Buffalo as a dual Canadian and American citizen who is enrolled in a graduate program in Buffalo remotely. I cant take the risk of getting my mom sick, Ms. Harris said. As supply increases, officials have said, the wait between two inoculations is expected to shorten, and some initiatives are trying to shrink the gap. Zain Manji, who runs the company Lazer from Toronto, created a text system with a friend that allows people to find vaccination sites near them. Since its start on April 30, at least 50,000 people have used it. I think theres been a lot of confusion around who is eligible, which locations are vaccinating people, what vaccines that theyre offering, Mr. Manji said. People are eager to get it and want to get it as fast as they can, he added about the vaccine. The vaccines are coming at a crucial time: Amid a third wave, the worst-affected provinces are reporting case numbers per capita that rival those of India  although figures in India are likely to be underestimated. In Quebec, a curfew, limits on gatherings, and takeout-only dining have helped to quell cases. Jean-Sebastien Guay, 27, of Montreal had his first shot on Sunday. It hasnt been perfect, he said, but officials communicated consistently. They all work pretty hard to make it work. Peter Hotez, a vaccine expert at Baylor College of Medicine, has been pushing for the Biden administration to offer help to Canada. This is not a time to hold back, Dr. Hotez said in a telephone interview. After writing on Twitter that the government should ship more Pfizer doses to Canada, he was met with emotional stories from Canadians. Adding insult to injury for some Canadians is the possibility of their country opening travel to vaccinated American tourists. Its frustrating for me to sit here and watch my friends in the United States going to restaurants, carrying on as if life is normal, said Ms. Harris, who said she had been in a quasi-lockdown since November. In the rest of the world, life is not normal.

Heres what it would take to vaccinate the whole world. A vaccination center in Bangkok. The worlds richest nations are vaccinating their populations at a much faster pace as the worlds poorest struggle to make a dent. Credit... Adam Dean for The New York Times More than 600 million people worldwide have been at least partly vaccinated against Covid-19  meaning that more than seven billion have not. It is a striking achievement in the shadow of a staggering challenge. Half of all the doses have gone into the arms of people in countries with one-seventh of the worlds people, primarily the United States and European nations. Dozens of countries, particularly in Africa, have barely started their inoculation campaigns. As wealthy countries envision the pandemic retreating within months  while poorer ones face the prospect of years of suffering  frustration has people around the world asking why more vaccine isnt available. Nationalism and government actions do much to help explain the stark inequity between the worlds haves and have-nots. So, for that matter, does government inaction. And the power of the pharmaceutical companies, which at times seem to hold all the cards, cannot be ignored. But much of it comes down to sheer logistics. Immunizing most of humanity in short order is a monumental task, one never attempted before, and one that experts say the world wasnt ready to confront. They note that things have already moved with unprecedented speed: A year and a half ago, Covid-19 was unknown, and the first vaccine authorizations came less than six months ago. But there is a long way to go. Here is a look at the reasons for the vaccine shortfall.

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Indias outbreak is a danger to the world. Heres why. A health worker administers a Covid-19 test in Gauhati, India, on Saturday. Credit... Anupam Nath/Associated Press The coronavirus surge that is lashing India, where countless funeral pyres cloud the night skies, is more than just a humanitarian disaster: Experts say uncontrolled outbreaks like Indias also threaten to prolong the pandemic by allowing more dangerous virus variants to mutate, spread and possibly evade vaccines. The United States will begin restricting travel from India later this week, but similar limitations on air travel from China that President Trump imposed in the early days of the pandemic proved to be ineffectual. We can ban all the flights we want but there is literally zero way we can keep these highly contagious variants out of our country, said Dr. Ashish Jha, the dean of the Brown University School of Public Health. What are variants, and why should we care? As the coronavirus spreads among human hosts, it invariably mutates, creating opportunities for new variants that can be more transmissible or even more deadly. One highly contagious variant, known as B.1.1.7, crushed Britain earlier this year and is already well entrenched in the United States and Europe. Recent estimates suggest that B.1.1.7 is about 60 percent more contagious and 67 percent more deadly than the original form of the virus. Another worrisome variant, P.1, is wreaking havoc across South America. On Friday, India recorded 401,993 new cases in a single day, a world record, though experts say its true numbers are far higher than whats being reported. Peru, Brazil and other countries across South America are also experiencing devastating waves. Virologists are unsure what is driving Indias second wave. Some have pointed to a homegrown variant called B.1.617, but researchers outside of India say the limited data suggests that B.1.1.7 may be to blame. Im already vaccinated. Should I be worried? With 44 percent of adults having received at least one dose, the United States has made great strides vaccinating its citizens, though experts say the country is far from reaching so-called herd immunity, when the virus cant spread easily because it cant find enough hosts. Vaccine hesitancy remains a formidable threat to reaching that threshold. In much of the world, however, vaccines are still hard to come by, especially in poorer countries. In India, less than 2 percent of the population has been fully vaccinated. If we want to put this pandemic behind us, we cant let the virus run wild in other parts of the world, Dr. Jha said. Preliminary evidence suggests that the vaccines are effective against the variants, although slightly less so against some. For now, the vaccines remain effective, but there is a trend toward less effectiveness, said Dr. Celine Gounder, an infectious disease physician and epidemiologist at Bellevue Hospital in New York. Vaccine makers say they are poised to develop booster shots that would tackle especially troublesome variants, but such a fix would be of little help to poorer nations already struggling to obtain the existing vaccines. Experts say the best way to head off the emergence of dangerous variants is to tamp down new infections and immunize most of humanity as quickly as possible. Dr. Michael Diamond, a viral immunologist at Washington University in St. Louis, said that the longer the coronavirus circulates, the more time it has to mutate, which could eventually threaten vaccinated people; the only way to break the cycle is to ensure countries like India get enough vaccines. In order to stop this pandemic, we have to vaccinate the whole world, Dr. Diamond said. There will be new waves of infection over and over again unless we vaccinate at a global scale.

In India, social media is awash in cries for help, and many people get results. A Covid-19 patient received oxygen from a gurdwara, or Sikh house of worship, last month. Credit... Atul Loke for The New York Times With Indias health care system overwhelmed by the countrys unprecedented Covid-19 surge, desperate relatives and friends of the infected have resorted to sending S.O.S. messages on social media. Many of those calls are being answered. More than 400,000 new coronavirus cases and thousands of deaths are being reported each day. Some people need medical oxygen, which is nearly impossible to find in Delhi, the capital. Others are hunting for medicine that is expensive on the black market, or for rare ventilators. The pleas are reaching tech-savvy engineers, lawyers, employees of nongovernmental organizations, politicians, doctors and even tuk-tuk drivers, who have mobilized online to help the sick, some of them hundreds of miles away. They have formed grass-roots networks that are stepping in where state and national governments have failed. Indias loose online aid networks rely on tools and techniques commonly used in marketing and other forms of messaging on social media. Families tag people with large followings or specialized skills who might be able to amplify their messages, while volunteer organizers use keywords to filter the flood of requests.

Reaching herd immunity is unlikely in the U.S., experts now believe. Over a thousand people gathered to watch the Stockyards Championship Rodeo in Fort Worth, Tex., last month. Credit... Shelby Tauber for The New York Times Early in the pandemic, when vaccines were still just a glimmer on the horizon, the term herd immunity came to signify the endgame: the point when enough Americans would be protected from the virus that we could be rid of it. Now, more than half of adults in the United States have been vaccinated with at least one dose. But rates are slipping, and there is widespread consensus among public health experts that herd immunity is not attainable  not in the foreseeable future, perhaps not ever. Instead, they are coming to the conclusion that the virus will most likely become a manageable threat that will continue to circulate in the United States for years, still causing hospitalizations and deaths but in much smaller numbers. How much smaller depends in part on how much of the nation, and the world, becomes vaccinated and how the coronavirus evolves.

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New cases are climbing in Arizona while most of the U.S. improves. Demand for vaccination in Arizona has slowed after an initial rush. The states first mass vaccination site, at a stadium in Glendale, closed on Friday as the state shifted to using more indoor sites. Credit... Ross D. Franklin/Associated Press While most of the United States has seen a steady decline in new coronavirus cases recently, Arizona has been an outlier. The state has not been swamped with another virus wave, but public health experts are worried about a steady increase in cases and hospitalizations. As of Tuesday, Arizonas daily average had climbed 19 percent in the last two weeks, the second largest rise in the nation over that period after Wyoming. Only four other states reported increases of more than 10 percent in that time: Washington, Hawaii, Arkansas and Oregon. Arizonas daily new case load, at 10 per 100,000 people, is still below the national average of 14 per 100,000. Over the last 14 days, as federal health officials have suggested that the viruss trajectory is improving, the country has seen a 26 percent decrease in new coronavirus cases, and 27 states have seen declines of 15 percent or more, according to a New York Times database. Will Humble, a former state health director who heads the Arizona Public Health Association, attributed the increase in new cases to several factors, including a spring influx of travelers and the prevalence of a virus variant first detected in Britain. The variant, B.1.1.7, has been associated with increased transmissibility. Mr. Humble said the rise in Arizona was not likely to yield a substantial rise in deaths, which have been declining in the state. Most older adults and other people in the state who are at elevated risk of severe illness have already been vaccinated, he said, while the new infections are predominantly in people in their 20s, 30s and 40s who are more likely to have milder cases. Mr. Humble said the rise in cases has totally different public health implications now than it would have several months ago, when far fewer people were vaccinated. Were not going to experience the type of lethal experiences that we would have in December, January or February, Mr. Humble said. Even so, he said, there had been a notable upward movement in hospital and intensive-care admissions. Arizona was slow to put restrictions in place and quick to remove them last summer as cases skyrocketed and intensive-care beds filled to near-capacity. From early June until mid-July, the state reported new cases at the highest rate in the country relative to its size, reaching a peak of 3,800 a day. In January, Arizona again had the highest rate of daily new cases for a time. At one point, it averaged more than 8,000 a day, more than double the summer peak. Gov. Doug Ducey signed an executive order in March that lifted all Covid-19 restrictions in the state and barred local governments from imposing mask mandates. Mr. Humble said that policy might have left Arizona more vulnerable.Theres no mitigation at all here, and there hasnt been for months, he said. About 41 percent of Arizonans have received a first dose of the vaccine, and 30 percent have been fully vaccinated, just below the national average. But the picture varies considerably from one part of the state to another. Three of Arizonas 15 counties have vaccinated more than 40 percent of residents, but five have vaccinated fewer than 30 percent, as of Tuesday. Dr. Cara Christ, the director of the Arizona Department of Health Services, said last month that the initial rush for vaccines had slowed considerably. Vaccine appointments used to be snapped up almost as soon as they were made available, she said. Now its to a point where its possible to get a same-day appointment at virtually any state site.

Members of the Indian diaspora race to find oxygen for Covid patients and are inundated with responses. A woman pleaded for oxygen for her husband at a Sikh temple, in Ghaziabad, India, on Monday. Credit... Adnan Abidi/Reuters Members of the global Indian diaspora, nearly 17 million, have mobilized from afar to help back home, where the Indian health system is buckling under the weight of a devastating coronavirus wave. Here is one U.S. residents story. Savita Mullapudi, an international development consultant in Pittsburgh, heard the ping of a WhatsApp message on her phone around 4 p.m. on Thursday. The sender was a former colleague who, like her, was an Indian immigrant who had lived in the United States for years. He had an urgent favor to ask. With Indias health care system overwhelmed by the nations unprecedented Covid-19 surge and hospitals running out of lifesaving oxygen, an Indian charity was scrambling to find oxygen concentrators, which filter oxygen from the air. One manufacturer was based in Pittsburgh. Could Ms. Mullapudi visit the site to vet the equipment? Ms. Mullapudi, whose parents and in-laws live there, leapt at the opportunity to help. She called the company a few minutes later but was told the earliest date for a visit was May 8  far too late. So Ms. Mullapudi, 44, said she did the next-best thing. She asked a few local doctor friends to tap their networks in Pittsburgh and across Pennsylvania for their opinions of the company and the quality of its products. By 9 a.m. the next day, she had received texts and long emails from medical professionals and hospital executives with rave reviews of the manufacturer, she recalled, as well as detailed descriptions of the machines electricity costs and how long they lasted. Image Savita Mullapudi reached out to medical professionals in Pittsburgh in an effort to help with oxygen supply in India. Credit... Aria M. Narasimhan The minute I said India Covid, I was inundated with responses, Ms. Mullapudi said. These networks of people that we all work with or know as friends just churned it around, and thats what really gave the organization confidence to go ahead. Before noon on Friday, the foundation ordered more than 400 oxygen concentrators to be flown to India. Though Ms. Mullapudi described her role as just one drop in an ocean, she acknowledged the profound impact of so many small acts of human kindness in the face of such dire challenges. Eventually its just people helping people, she said. Thats the story of hope.
Bret Stephens: Well, Gail, that was some speech last week from President Franklin Baines Biden.

Gail Collins: Bret, is that supposed to be an insult? Ill bet if Joe Biden learns youve compared him to Franklin Roosevelt, hell feel pretty chipper.

Bret: No insult. Just an apt historical comparison.

Gail: And he probably wouldnt mind being thought of as a guy with L.B.J.s domestic chops either. Remember the civil rights bill and the Voting Rights Act?

Bret: What I was mainly thinking about was the Great Society and the war on poverty. I dont think they worked out quite as well as planned.

Gail: Well, Lyndon would want civil and voting rights in his Great Society basket.

Bret: Here is where I state for the record that the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 were the greatest legislative achievements of the past 100 years.
Mill Valley | $3.995 Million

A modern farmhouse built in 2010, with four bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms, on a 0.1-acre lot

Kelly Haegglund, a local architect popular for her modern translations of classic styles, designed this home as her primary residence in 2010, using many of the elements for which she is known. Ms. Haegglund also designed the front and rear yards, using drought-tolerant materials.

The property is in the Sycamore Park neighborhood, about a mile from the center of downtown, with easy access to a public elementary school and a public middle school. The city of Mill Valley is adjacent to a state and a national park. San Francisco is an hours drive; Muir Beach is 20 minutes away.

Size: 2,555 square feet

Price per square foot: $1,563

Indoors: A cedar picket fence separates the front yard from the street; a path leads to the front porch and the wood-and-glass front door.

The sunny foyer opens into an even sunnier living room with white shiplap paneling, hardwood floors and a corner fireplace with a Venetian plaster surround. The hardwood floors continue into a breakfast area with a built-in window seat and the kitchen beyond, which has a center island with a Silestone counter, open shelving and white wood cabinets. An adjacent dining area has windows looking out on the backyard and a door to the rear porch.
Helen Murray Free, a chemist who ushered in a revolution in diagnostic testing when she co-developed the dip-and-read diabetes test, a paper strip that detected glucose in urine, died on Saturday at a hospice facility in Elkhart, Ind. She was 98.

The cause was complications of a stroke, her son Eric said.

Before the invention of the dip-and-read test in 1956, technicians added chemicals to urine and then heated the mixture over a Bunsen burner. The test was inconvenient, and, because it could not distinguish glucose from other sugars, results were not very precise.

Working with her husband, who was also a chemist, Ms. Free figured out how to impregnate strips of filter paper with chemicals that turned blue when glucose was present. The test made it easier for clinicians to diagnose diabetes and cleared the way for home test kits, which enabled patients to monitor glucose on their own.

People with diabetes now use blood sugar meters to monitor their glucose levels, but the dip-and-read tests are ubiquitous in clinical laboratories worldwide.
I was recently diagnosed with endometriosis and the fibroid was huge. Doctors questioned my decision to have a hysterectomy straight away. I said: Ive known for over 10 years that I dont want kids. I work with them, when I want to see babies I do. They said, Think about it for a month. I thought, Ive got this thing growing in me and I want it out. Luckily, my gynecologist understood and she helped me to get the surgery.

Its surprising how many women are offended by my decision. They think, What must you think of me if Ive got kids? I dont think about you at all. I just dont want kids.

When I became a nanny I saw how hard it was and realized, children are great for a few hours, but no way am I having them. My mom said, What about this hole in your heart? I said, Ill buy a puppy or a really expensive piece of jewelry. Its egoist to want to procreate  I dont need there to be another version of me. Or, because I love someone, why would I need to see what we can make together?

I ask people if they regret having them, and Ive heard a lot of yeses. You cant ever publicly say that, though. If a mom at the playground said that, no one would play with her kids. Of course, people regret being parents  its tough. People that employ me are businesswomen at the top of their game, and they need me. In todays economic crisis, you also need to be able to afford a child.

People find my job flabbergasting. If you dont want kids, they think you must hate them. It all boils down to education, cultural differences and religion. Women who dont have kids are threatening because its a sure decision. People wonder, What else is she going to want?
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Google loves to be different. So its no surprise that the company has out-there ideas for the post-pandemic office.

As Google starts to bring employees back to offices in some regions, it plans to experiment with ways to give them more elbow room and blend elements of virtual work with in-person collaboration. The goal, as my colleague Dai Wakabayashi described in an article on Googles vision of the new office, is to reimagine a happier and more productive workplace.

Dai spoke to me about what Google learned from the last year of employees working mostly away from offices, and whether a company with limitless resources will be a model of the future workplace.

Shira: What did Google find from more than a year of mostly remote work?

Dai: Google was surprised at how productive its work force was. Some employees liked working away from the office, or liked aspects of it, and werent willing to go back to an office full time. One downside that Google executives talked about was missing some creativity and collaboration, and a difficulty in establishing workplace culture and trust, when people werent together in person.
When you stand in the Chimanimani Mountains, its difficult to reconcile their present serenity with their beleaguered past. From the valleys below, enormous walls of gray stone rise above dense deciduous forests. Hidden among various crevices are ancient rock paintings, made in the late Stone Age by the San people, also known as Bushmen; they depict dancing men and women, and hunting parties chasing after elephants. Theres even a painting of a crocodile so enormous that it may forever deter you from the riverbank.

As you climb higher, toward Mount Binga, Mozambiques highest peak, the forests flatten into expanses of montane grasslands. Wild, isolated, lost in time, its a place where rich local traditions live on, where people still talk about ancestral spirits and sacred rituals. A local guide there once told me about a sacred mountain, Nhamabombe, where rainmakers still go to make rain.
Other staff members deliver a variety of inmate programs to help offenders succeed as law-abiding citizens upon release. And thats important because 96 percent of inmates return to the community. We equip them with important skills to help them find work in the construction industry or learn culinary skills for employment in the hospitality sector. Parenting classes are offered as well so they can be there for their kids upon release. Inmates are also given the opportunity to earn a high school diploma while in jail. Lack of a high school diploma often proves a major barrier to employment and in turn, unemployment is a leading cause of recidivism.
The body of a 39-year-old woman in rural Colorado who went missing Friday morning while on a walk with her two dogs was found hours later by her boyfriend, and officials said there were signs she had been attacked by a bear.

In a search of the area, alongside Highway 550, near Trimble, about a hundred miles south of Telluride, state parks and wildlife officials found not one bear, but three: a grown female black bear and two smaller bears around a year old. Officials euthanized them and found human remains in the grown bear and one of the yearlings.

A dangerous bear thats had a fatal attack and the consumption of a person is not something we can allow to be out there on the landscape, said Jason Clay, a spokesman for Colorado Parks and Wildlife.

The attack took place on private property alongside the highway, Mr. Clay said. The woman, who has not been identified, had gone for a walk in the morning, and when her boyfriend returned to their home that evening, he found their dogs outside the house.
Unfortunately, some of the members of the Columbus Police Department had no regard for the rights secured by this bedrock principle of American democracy, Judge Marbley wrote. This case is the sad tale of police officers, clothed with the awesome power of the state, run amok.

Judge Marbley then traced policing back to the colonial-era citizen watchmen, which he said punished everything from claims of witchcraft to minor infractions like extravagant boots. He then explored the slave codes and patrol system of the antebellum South and the Black Codes that came after the Civil War. The two codes were so similar, it is a wonder that the copy-and-paste functionality was only invented more recently, the judge wrote.

Rachel Moran, a professor at University of St. Thomas School of Law in Minneapolis, called the opinion remarkable and unusual in its scope.

Historically, federal courts have been extremely reluctant to interfere with policing decisions and policies, she said. The decision, she added, was unusual not only because it restricts the Police Departments options for using force on protesters, but because it thoroughly sets out this countrys troubling history of police brutality and unauthorized uses of force as a backdrop for this order.

A group of protesters filed the lawsuit in July, accusing the Columbus Police Department of using excessive force at protests the month before. That lawsuit, which seeks damages from the city and a permanent injunction on the police tactics, may not conclude for two years, according to Fred Gittes, one of the lawyers representing the protesters.
There are two main developments that led experts to this growing consensus. The coronavirus is changing rapidly, giving rise to new variants that are much more contagious. And vaccinations are not moving fast enough.

Early on in the pandemic, the target herd immunity threshold was thought to be 60 to 70 percent of the population. But the more contagious variants pushed that number up to at least 80 percent  and polls show that about 30 percent of Americans are hesitant to get vaccinated. And that does not even begin to address the fact that only a tiny proportion of the world has been vaccinated thus far.

Even if the vast majority of Americans are vaccinated, it may not matter if, elsewhere in the world, a variant emerges that can evade the immune system, Apoorva said. We are all in this together, so we will never be truly be rid of this virus till the whole world is protected.

But reaching herd immunity may not matter in the end. Previously scientists thought that the only way to get rid of the virus or to make it more manageable was to reach that lofty number, until we found out just how amazingly good the vaccines are, Apoorva said. They changed the calculus completely.

Over the long term  a generation or two  the goal would be to protect the vulnerable and transition the virus to become more like its cousins that cause common colds.
Good morning.

In March 2020, Disneyland  self-appointed happiest place on Earth, glittering emblem of Southern California  shut down. It was only the third unscheduled closure since the park opened on July 17, 1955. The other two followed the 1963 assassination of President John F. Kennedy and the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.

Those other closures were relatively brief. But this time, the pandemic kept Disneylands gates shut for month after agonizing month. Until Friday. So today, were starting the week with a look at Disneylands grand reopening, written by The New York Timess resident Disney expert, Brooks Barnes:

For more than a year, Disneyland disciples waited for the storied theme park to come back to life. Elephants flying. Pirates marauding. Flowers crooning. Hippo ears wiggling.

Matthew Gottula, a fashion photographer in North Hills, put it this way on Twitter on Thursday, as Disney employees prepared for the Friday reopening: Imagining the animatronics at Disneyland turning back on like in Sleeping Beauty, when the spell is broken and the kingdom wakes up and just continues what they were doing midsentence.
When Madison Kohout, 19, moved into her new apartment complex, she didnt think much of the average age of her neighbors.

After all, she had scored a nice apartment in the northeast Arkansas City of Piggott after moving there from Oklahoma. About a week in her new home, however, Ms. Kohout saw a sign outside the 10-unit complex that she hadnt noticed before.

I was looking around at my surroundings to see what there was I could do here, and I saw the sign that said Senior Living Apartments, and I realized I moved myself into a retirement community, Ms. Kohout said in an interview. Once I saw the sign, all the things clicked. I was like, Oh, my goodness, I cant believe I did this.

Ms. Kohouts arrival at the apartment complex came after a connection she made over the past year through TikTok with Lori Parker of Piggott, who describes herself to her more than 65,000 followers as a Preachers wife, Mom and Nonna. The two followed each other on the social media platform, and they quickly developed a rapport by commenting back and forth on the videos they shared.
Immigrant advocates and lawyers welcomed the decision to bring a handful of parents to the United States but said that more must be done to address the harm inflicted by the policy.

We are pleased the Biden administration has now taken its first steps to address the harm caused by the Trump administrations barbaric family separation practice and thrilled for the four families who will be reunited this week, said Lee Gelernt, lead counsel in an ongoing class-action lawsuit that the American Civil Liberties Union brought against the policy in 2018.

But we certainly do not intend to take a victory lap at this point, he said. It is not enough for these families to be reunited.

Mr. Gelernts team, which is negotiating with the Biden administration to settle the lawsuit, has demanded financial compensation, mental health services and legal permanent residency for all separated families, among other things.

The family separation policy was a key component of the Trump administrations crackdown on unauthorized immigration. The goal was to deliver a powerful deterrent to those hoping to come to the United States, a formidable roadblock that affected even families who may have been legally entitled to asylum from persecution in their home countries.

The policy was first made public with a memo in April 2018. Later it surfaced that families had been separated as early as 2017 as part of a pilot program conducted near El Paso. All told, about 5,500 children were separated from their parents.
It is registered under a section of the tax code that prohibits it from spending money to expressly support partisan political campaigns.

But it can, and does, donate to groups that seek to influence the political debate in a manner that aligns with Democrats and their agenda, including the Center for American Progress, a liberal think tank where Mr. Wyss sits on the board. The organization was started by John D. Podesta, a top White House aide to Presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama. A foundation that Mr. Wyss led as chairman and that has since merged with the Wyss Foundation paid Mr. Podesta as an adviser, and the two men remained close, according to associates.

The Berger Action Fund, which shares facilities and staff with the Wyss Foundation, had assets of nearly $65 million at the end of March 2020, according to its most recent tax filing. The fund is registered under a section of the tax code that allows it to spend money supporting and opposing candidates, or to donate to groups that do.

Mr. Floyd said in statement that Berger Action had its own policy barring any of its funding from being used to support or oppose political candidates or electoral activities.

Because the recipients of funds from Mr. Wysss organizations do not have to disclose many details about their finances, including which donations are used for which projects, it is not clear how they have used the money originating from Mr. Wysss operation. But some of the groups funded by Berger Action helped pay for campaign ads helping Democrats and attacking Republicans including Mr. Trump, or gave to other groups that did.

The voluntary restriction is potentially notable, given questions about Mr. Wysss citizenship.

While Mr. Wyss donated nearly $70,000 to Democratic congressional candidates and left-leaning political action committees from 1990 to 2003, he does not appear to have made any such donations to federal candidates or PACs since.

Mr. Wysss representatives provided the tax filings documenting the expansion of recent giving to politically oriented groups only after requests from a lawyer for The New York Times, and after Mr. Wyss dropped his bid for Tribune Publishing. Such filings are legally required to be made public upon request.
Before we can do anything meaningful on immigration, were going to have to deal with the current crisis at the border, said Senator John Cornyn, Republican of Texas, who has been involved in the bipartisan talks. I dont think the public is going to tolerate us ignoring this crisis, and its just going to get worse unless we deal with it.

As for moving Mr. Bidens immigration agenda through reconciliation, he said: I think theyre dreaming; I dont think the parliamentarian will allow that. Thats not really the purpose of reconciliation.

To pull it off, Democrats would have to grapple with strict budget rules that limit what can be done under reconciliation. They require that any policy change included must have a budgetary impact that is more than merely incidental. Other measures favored by liberal activists, such a federal minimum-wage increase to $15 per hour, have been nixed from a reconciliation package by the Senate parliamentarian, the ultimate arbiter of the rules, for failing to meet that bar.

The parliamentarian, Elizabeth MacDonough, recently said that the reconciliation process could be used at least once more during this fiscal year. That ruling was widely seen as paving the way for Democrats to advance Mr. Bidens infrastructure bill using the fast-track process. It also set progressive activists to thinking about what else they could push through, including measures to address climate change, expand Medicare and revamp the immigration system.

A team of immigration activists and researchers as well as congressional aides is exploring the question, digging into the best way to present their case to Ms. MacDonough, who declined to comment for this article. They have found past precedents, including one from 2005, in which changes to immigration policy were allowed as part of a budget-reconciliation package, and they are tallying up the budgetary effects of the immigration proposals  which total in the tens of billions.

Researchers have dredged up supportive quotes from Republicans from 2005, when they won signoff for including a measure to recapture unused visas for high-skilled workers in a reconciliation package. Mr. Cornyn praised the move at the time as a way to keep jobs here in America, rather than export them to places like India and China.
Brent Probinsky, a lawyer for the mother, said the woman had received a call on April 13 from the school saying that her daughter had damaged a computer screen at the school in Clewiston, which is about 80 miles northwest of Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

The woman, Mr. Probinsky said, was told to bring $50 to the school office to pay for the damage, which he said she did.

In a cellphone video of the episode that WINK-TV posted on its website, the student bent over a chair as Ms. Carter struck her three times with a paddle while they stood next to a school clerk. After the first strike, the video shows, the child began to cry and moved away from the chair, but the two women repositioned her there, then Ms. Carter told her Put your hands down and hit her again twice. Afterward, the child complained of severe pain on her lower back and buttocks, according to the Sheriffs Office.

Join Michael Barbaro and The Daily team as they celebrate the students and teachers finishing a year like no other with a special live event. Catch up with students from Odessa High School, which was the subject of a Times audio documentary series. We will even get loud with a performance by the drum line of Odessas award-winning marching band, and a special celebrity commencement speech.

I was appalled at how brutal this principal beat this child, Mr. Probinksy said.

The girls mother told the television station that she was horrified by how her daughter had been beaten. The hatred with which she hit my daughter, the woman said in Spanish, I mean it was a hatred that, really, Ive never hit my daughter like she hit her.

In 1977, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in its Ingraham v. Wright decision that school corporal punishment is constitutional, meaning that each state can make its own rules when physically disciplining students.
Growing up, Carley Ebbenga was used to not having big birthday parties. Since her birthday falls right in the middle of winter break, most kids were out of town so she stuck to small celebrations. But for her Sweet Sixteen, Ms. Ebbenga, who lives in Romeoville, Ill., a suburb of Chicago, wanted to do something special. She envisioned a trip into the city with a few friends where they would eat a nice dinner and stay up late dancing in their hotel rooms.

The pandemic, of course, foiled her plans.

Ms. Ebbenga made the best of things. She invited two of her closest friends to a bonfire in her backyard. They ate chili made by Ms. Ebbengas mother and danced around the fire while drinking hot cocoa. The small group also had a burning ceremony where they had notebooks and pens to write down the deepest, most saddest things, read them out loud and then burn the slips of paper in the fire. Ms. Ebbenga had gotten the idea from watching one of her favorite YouTubers, The Purple Palace, who had made a video burning things she wanted to let go of.

A lot of what Ms. Ebbenga wrote down were those things she missed out on during the pandemic like a Sweet Sixteen or the nights of laughter lost this year and attending my first art show. It feels really good to just straight-up watch the fire burn, she said.

When pandemic lockdowns began last spring, high school students in the class of 2020 realized pretty quickly that theyd be missing their proms and started creating new ways to mark their graduations. But few younger teenagers could have imagined that their lives would still be so limited by the pandemic a year later. Indeed, with different rules across the country, kids have had wildly varied experiences: Some schools have been operating in person and holding proms as usual, while for others, the spring of 2021 is not all that different from last year. And as more classic teenage milestones like Sweet Sixteens, prom and graduation were disrupted or canceled entirely, these kids have had to turn their losses into opportunities, forging new traditions with friends.
The point of the anti-riot law, as I read it anyway, is to classify and provide penalties for rioting, which was so often seen in multiple cities, with tragic loss of property and life. It goes out of its way to say it is not applicable to constitutionally protected peaceful protests, which I wholeheartedly support. But violent protests, such as what we saw last summer has no place in our society.
The protests have continued, in part, because of anger over what several human rights groups have called a heavy-handed state response in trying to control them.

Several instances of police abuse have been captured on video in recent days, including one in which a young protester is seen kicking a police officer on a motorbike. The video shows the officer respond by shooting at the protester as he runs away.

The protester was Marcelo Agredo, 17, the ninth grader who went out to march with his brother. He died soon after, according to his father, Armando Agredo. The death was confirmed by the countrys ombudsman, a government agency that investigates human rights violations.

You dont take a persons life for a kick, said Mr. Agredo, 62, a retired taxi driver. We want justice.

Image Marcelo Agredo, 17, a protester killed during marches in Colombia. Credit... Armando Agredo

Amid this anger, the countrys former president, Alvaro Uribe, took to Twitter to say Colombians should support the right of soldiers and police officers to use their weapons to defend themselves against terrorism.

The social media site removed the message shortly after, saying it violated rules regarding the glorification of violence.
DHAKA, Bangladesh  At least 26 people died and several others were missing on Monday after an overcrowded speedboat collided with a sand-laden bulk carrier and sank in the Padma River in Bangladesh, the police said.

Rescuers found 26 dead bodies, and some still could be missing, said Miraj Hossain, a senior police official of the central Madaripur District, where the accident occurred.

Five people were rescued and sent to a hospital, he said.

The speedboat was carrying passengers in violation of government restrictions during a nationwide coronavirus lockdown, Rahima Khatun, a top government official in the area, told The Associated Press.

It overturned while heading for Madaripur District from Munshiganj District, the official said. Bangladesh is under a lockdown until Wednesday to curb the spread of the coronavirus.
JERUSALEM  Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel said on Monday that he would be willing to hand over leadership for one year to a longtime right-wing rival, Naftali Bennett, in a last-ditch effort to cobble together a new government.

Mr. Netanyahu, who has spent the last 12 years in office and is now standing trial on corruption charges, announced the offer just ahead of a deadline to form a government, in the wake of Israels fourth inconclusive election in two years.

The arrangement, part of a rotation agreement, would be a highly unusual one since Mr. Bennett, who served briefly as defense minister in a previous government, leads a small, pro-settlement party, Yamina, that holds just seven seats in the 120-seat Parliament.

Mr. Netanyahu wrote about the offer in a post on Facebook less than 36 hours before his time to form a new government runs out at midnight on Tuesday. Mr. Bennett appeared to dismiss the offer as political spin in his initial response.
Republicans and Democrats are increasingly alienated from each other, rhetorically and geographically. How did we end up with such a segregated political landscape?

Residents of Gillette, Wyo., where about nine out of 10 voters are Republicans, might have been equally shocked by President Bidens victory.

The film critic Pauline Kael once said that she lived in a rather special world because she only knew one person who voted for Richard Nixon. People in the Bay Area, the countrys most Democratic metropolitan enclave, may have felt similarly after Donald Trump won in 2016.

Not everyones as politically isolated as you. There's a zip code five miles away with a roughly equal mix of Democrats and Republicans.

You live in a Democratic bubble. Only 9 percent of your neighbors are Republicans.

Enter your address to see the political party of the thousand voters closest to you.

More than half of Republicans believe that last years election was stolen from Donald Trump. Rather than reject claims of election fraud, Republican lawmakers have used the premise that the election was stolen to justify restrictions on voting.

Mr. Trump most likely deserves much of the blame for the widespread belief among Republicans that the election was illegitimate. But theres another reason so many Republicans might not believe that Joe Biden won: They dont live near people who voted for him.

Surveys have shown that Americans animosity toward the opposing political party is higher than it has been in decades. At the same time, weve found that geographic political segregation has increased over the past 10 years. Could the two trends be connected?

Its a lot easier to demonize people on the other end of the political spectrum if you dont personally know many of them, said Richard D. Kahlenberg, a senior fellow at the Century Foundation. Thats not a healthy situation for the country.

Earlier this year, we published a study that measured how politically isolated Democrats and Republicans have become. Starting with a dataset containing the address of nearly every registered voter in the United States, we estimated each voters political affiliation based on which party the voter registered with, demographics and election results. We used that data to create the maps here.

We measured political isolation by looking at each voters thousand closest neighbors. For about one in five Republicans, and two in five Democrats, less than a quarter of their neighbors belong to the opposite political party.

represents one out of 100 Democrats Each 0 25 50 75 100% of neighbors are Republicans 38% of Democrats live in a bubble represents one out of 100 Republicans Each 100% of neighbors are Democrats 0 25 50 75 19% of Republicans live in a bubble Each represents one out of 100 Democrats 0 25 50 75 100% of neighbors are Republicans 38% of Democrats live in a bubble Each represents one out of 100 Republicans 100% of neighbors are Democrats 75 50 25 0 19% of Republicans live in a bubble

This years violence at the Capitol is a frightening harbinger of the future of American democracy if our political parties grow more estranged. Is it too late to pop our political bubbles?

In many places, political segregation overlaps with racial segregation. People of color, who tend to identify as Democrats, live in densely populated urban communities. Republicans, who are mostly white, are spread out across exurbs and rural areas.

Our data reveals the racial and political segregation that exists even within cities. In Mobile, Ala., for example, Black Democrats live along the water, while white Republicans are bunched up farther inland. This division has existed for more than a century, in part because of the governments racist housing policies.

White Republicans Mobile Many Black neighborhoods were deemed hazardous by the government in 1937. White Republicans Mobile Many Black neighborhoods in Mobile were deemed hazardous by the government in 1937. White Republicans Mobile Many Black neighborhoods in Mobile were deemed hazardous by the government in 1937.

In 1937, the federal Home Owners Loan Corporation made a map of Mobile for the real estate industry to use when assessing an areas risk level. Across the board, Mobiles Black neighborhoods were shaded in red and rated as hazardous, making it more difficult for residents to get loans or build enough wealth through homeownership to move elsewhere.

Today, redlining lives on under the guise of single-family zoning laws. By banning multifamily housing units, many communities have essentially locked out people of color who have less wealth and cant afford single-family homes higher down payments.

But even if racial segregation disappeared overnight, theres evidence to suggest that people would still be sorted into red or blue communities.

Take Cedar Grove, N.J., and its neighbor to the east, Upper Montclair. About four out of five residents in both areas identify as white.

Politically, though, the two New Jersey suburbs are worlds apart. Last year, Donald Trump won Cedar Grove by a margin of seven percentage points. In Montclair, President Biden won by 78 percentage points.

Cedar Grove Upper Montclair Montclair LAKE ERIE Cedar Grove Upper Montclair Montclair LAKE ERIE Cedar Grove Upper Montclair Montclair

While Cedar Grove and Upper Montclair are predominantly white, they differ in key ways that most likely correlate with their politics. The median household income in Upper Montclair is almost twice that of Cedar Groves. Theres a cultural difference as well, as Montclair is home to a sizable contingent of journalists who work in Manhattan.

People arent choosing to live near neighbors who share their party affiliation said Alan Abramowitz, a professor of political science at Emory University. Theyre segregating based on lifestyle choices.

The alignment of lifestyle and politics reflects the sorting of Democrats and Republicans by income and education, in addition to race. While members of both parties want to live in neighborhoods with good schools and low crime, they disagree about the importance of certain religious and cultural amenities.

Democrats, surveys have shown, are more likely than Republicans to prioritize walkable neighborhoods with good public transit. Republicans, on the other hand, prize neighborhoods with more Christians and larger houses.

If Mr. Biden is interested in a return to comity between Democrats and Republicans, he stands little chance of undoing the decades-in-the-making constellation of who we vote for and whether we want to live near a Whole Foods or Cracker Barrel.

But the president can make it easier for people of color to move to the suburbs, in part by reforming discriminatory zoning policies. And he has good reason to make integration a priority: Democrats geographic isolation has cost the party political power.

Because Democrats are clumped together in cities, Republicans have been able to redraw congressional district boundaries so that, in some states, the share of House seats that Democrats control is much smaller than Democrats overall share of votes.

Take Ohio, where Mr. Biden won 45 percent of the vote but Democrats only control four of the states 16 congressional seats. The states 11th Congressional District, a Democratic stronghold that includes much of Cleveland, is a case study in how political segregation has led to disproportionate representation.

During the 2011 redistricting process, Republicans extended the districts boundaries to include the city of Akron, another Democratic bastion.

LAKE ERIE Cleveland Ohios 11th district Akron LAKE ERIE Cleveland Ohios 11th district Akron LAKE ERIE Cleveland Ohios 11th district Akron

Republicans were able to lasso most of northeastern Ohios Democratic voters into a single district because those voters were clustered together in cities. By doing so, Republicans removed Democratic voters from nearby districts, making it more likely that their own party would win those seats.

As states begin the redistricting process this year, Democratic leaders will be focused on striking down unfair boundaries drawn by Republican legislatures. Hours after the Census Bureau released state apportionment numbers last week, a Democratic redistricting group filed lawsuits to throw out maps in Louisiana, Minnesota and Pennsylvania.

But for a more durable solution, President Biden should dismantle zoning laws that have kept Democrats and Republicans apart in the first place.

Middle-income Democrats who cant afford a single-family home should still be able to raise their children in a duplex with a front yard. And young, lower-income Republicans shouldnt be priced out of the cultural amenities that city life provides.

By making it easier for Democrats and Republicans to live side by side, President Biden might also restore some of our trust in one another. Our democracy only stands to benefit.

Correction: An earlier version of this article misstated the location of Ohio's 11th Congressional District. It is in northeastern Ohio, not northwestern Ohio. An earlier version of an interactive element with this article misstated a voter registration requirement in some states. When registering to vote, residents of some states may provide a political party affiliation; they are not required to provide an affiliation. Also, Maryland residents who register to vote may provide a party affiliation.
The New South Wales resort town of Nowra was recently invades by thousands of corellas, a subgenus of white cockatoo, which made it look like the set of an Alfred Hitchcock movie.

Photos and videos of white birds gathered on the streets of Nowra have been doing the rounds online for about a week. The corellas can be seen hanging from lamp posts, converging on peoples lawns, roofs and digging trough their trash in search of food, and making an infernal ruckus. Its definitely not something you see everyday, but even though media outlets around the world have described the footage as somewhat of a freak occurrence, for the people of Nowra, the events captured on camera recently on Jindalee Crescent street have become quite common. For years, people here have been sharing the town with corellas, and although many of them hate the birds, theres not a lot they can do about it.

Photo: justsheff33/TikTok

Theyre supposed to be a pest, and they do a lot of destruction to the trees, one Nowra woman told the Sidney Morning Herald. Im always sweeping feathers away.

The loud squawking and the droppings they leave everywhere arent winning the corellas any human fans either, but they dont seem to care very much, and because they are a protected species, annoyed locals have very few options of dealing with the birds.

Photo: justsheff33/TikTok

Driving or walking through Nowra, its not uncommon to see flocks of corellas perched on power lines, parked cars and billboards. They dont shy away from rolling on peoples lawns, scavenging for food in their trash, or sliding down on their roofs for fun, either. And every once in a while they will carry out a massive invasion like the one recently caught on camera.

Corellas takeover of Nowra has been a long time coming. In fact, experts have been warning about it for years. You see, these birds are not dumb, some claim that they have the intellect of an average two-year-old, so they quickly figured out that moving into a cozy man-made from the semi-arid wilderness of New South Wales was the smart thing to do. They hadnt been seen in urban areas before the 1950s, and now they are everywhere.

We have created a perfect habitat for little corellas and they are taking us up on the offer, academics at the University of South Australia wrote in a 2018 report, adding that urban planning was the biggest problem. The wide-open lawns of Nowra skirted by tall trees and an easily-accessible water source make the perfect habitat for the white cockatoos.

According to 9News, large flocks of corellas gather on the streets of Nowra every single day, so its safe to say that the locals problems with the birds are only getting worse, and there is very little they can do about it.



Apparently, corellas have become a nuisance even in larger urban centers like Melbourne and Adelaide. Still, its a lot better than having your town invaded by giant flying foxes, I guess
Ronn Torossian

The COVID-19 pandemic shook up the marketing world and also made consumers more unpredictable than ever. Fortunately, one of the marketing tools that has persisted with positive results, despite these difficult times, has been experiential marketing. This is a type of personalized marketing strategy that evokes emotions in consumers and motivates them to take the next step in their buying journey.

Experiential marketing has been especially successful with Millennials and Generation Z, consumers who, despite the global crisis, are still looking for brands that create emotionally connecting experiences with their consumers.

Experiential marketing

The goal of experiential marketing is for companies to connect with consumers through some type of positive sensory experience. Plenty of companies are aware that this precise type of emotional marketing is what motivates consumers to switch brands and even to become loyal followers of the brands they switch to.

In the past, companies created these types of marketing campaigns through pop-up shops, flash mobs and events. However, the pandemic made for some great changes to these efforts as well as to the purchasing habits of consumers.

The future of experiential marketing

Although things arent going to be changing in terms of live events, younger generations are still looking for emotional and connecting experiences before they decide on making a purchase. This means that companies have to find new ways to produce those experiences, including through more hybrid forms of experiential marketing including live streaming or online meetings.

In fact, plenty of businesses have already begun experimenting and testing new tools and strategies with the goal of recreating live experiences in the digital sphere. Although theyre not going to be the same as in-person events, they can still give consumers the illusion of an in-person experience.

Communities around brands

Finally, one of the ways that companies are able to get consumers to share interesting experiences with each other and with their brands is through communities. Companies able to create communities around their brand will have a group of people who are going to stay faithful and willing to share their experiences of those communities.

To do this, the first thing businesses should do is examine what consumers are saying about the company itself and its products or services, and where those comments are being shared.

After that, companies should look to identify a common passion within their consumer community, their business goals or values, and anything else thats relevant to the story behind the business. The next step is to offer the consumers something thats exclusive, unique and enjoyable. Finally, its important to keep consumers engaged throughout that connecting experience by creating polls, games and contests that show appreciation for fans and encourage them to share any sort of content they create connected to the brand itself.

***

Ronn Torossian is CEO of 5WPR, a digital PR agency.
There is anger in Offaly today a local company loses bike hire service at Lough Boora to a bike hire service from Dublin.

Lough Boora Rent-a-bike has been operating at the tourist attraction for 11 years and was operating long before the site gained the level of popularity it has now.

However they were told in a phone call on Friday that they could not run the service any more because the license to operate bike hire at Lough Boora had gone to a company from Dublin.

In a post on Facebook, Pat Barrett, the man behind Lough Boora Rent-a-bike stated:

"With a heavy heart, I have decided to air my feelings since I was told through a phone call on Friday morning that I was not allowed to run the bicycle hire service anymore, a service that me and my family started up 11 years ago," Pat Barrett said.

"This news came about after a tendering process that we were not successful in," he added.

"I want to thank everyone that has shown me and my family massive support since Friday morning through phone calls messages and on Facebook. I thought things could not get much worse until today I found out that the bicycle hire was given to the biggest bicycle hire service in Ireland, namely CK Cycles in the Phoenix Park, Dublin," he claimed.

"So much for trying to keep jobs locally. Looking at the whole process of tendering, I was never going to get it. Thanks to everyone again for all the support over the last 11 years," Pat vented.

The company has received an outpouring of support from the community at large with hundreds of people commenting to express their support.

Here are just a small selection of the comments

- "What hope had you going up against a big company like that. And well they knew it too. I am so sorry this has happened to you. You genuinely brought people to boora before many knew it was even a tourist hot-spot. They will go a long long way to find a local family run business like yourselves, always a pleasure to deal with and so kind and accommodating to everyone. I wish you and your family well. If I had a choice of renting a bike from you or them I'd choose you over and over. If only you could open a little bit up the road the locals would support you over an outsider any day. I'll be boycotting them for sure."

- "I am very sorry to hear this. We donated several bicycles to you when our kids had outgrown them. We will not be supporting your replacement."

- "I'm so sorry to hear this. You were such an important part of building Boora into a place to visit and the tourist destination it has become. It was great to see you develop from the small beginning in the little hut by the lake. I know it's devastating to have your business wiped out like that."

- "So sorry, we always loved how nice and helpful ye were, my girls loved how nice ye were helping them with their bikes. Absolute disgrace"

- "This is so wrong , you were always so good to us and had great patience with the kids when picking bikes .. wont be getting any bikes from that new crowd."

- "Devastating news it's an absolute disgrace they should be ashamed of themselves well I hope no 1 goes near them for a bike I'm so sorry to hear this pat the likes of yourself and your family will never be got again the nicest people on this earth bord na mona Hope your proud of your decision you officially destroyed boora."

A campaign has started to boycott the new hire service. See more details by clicking here

POLITICAL REACTION

Deputy Barry Cowen said is seeking an urgent meeting with Bord Na Mona to discuss the fallout.

Deputy Cowen said he offered his "unwavering support" to Mr Barrett, adding, "the contribution of Pats business to the success of the Lough Boora Parkland cannot be underestimated.

"Pats business first started attracting visitors to the parkland and his professionalism, huge knowledge of the facility, its history and its significance to the locality meant that they returned time and time again.

I believe the tender was awarded to a large bike rental company who operate nationally. This is not in the spirit of supporting local business and a just transition. If we are serious about rural Ireland and rural communities, we must support our small local enterprise," Deputy Cowen added.

I contacted Pat over the weekend and we agreed to remain in contact in our efforts to seek rectification. We are all shocked, dismayed, bemused and angered by such a decision or process that could do this. I assure Pat of my support and Im sure of all public reps support irrespective of their politics, and assistance in whatever has to be or can be done to challenge this."

In relation to Bord na Mona, Cowen commented: I will contact the Bord Na Mona authorities immediately to voice my disbelief and shock while questioning whether tender procedures were properly enforced and if appropriate weight was given to Pats long years of service, local knowledge and the dedication, commitment and love he has shown to building up Lough Boora Parklands as a destination. I truly believe that Pats business is the best fit for the area and will urge them to reconsider, he concluded.

Independent TD Carol Nolan also lent her voice in support of Pat over the weekend.

"I'm very disappointed to hear of the latest move by Bord na Mona over the weekend in relation to the bicycle hire business built up over the past 11 years through hard work, dedication and commitment by Pat Barrett. It doesnt seem right or fair that Pat didnt get an opportunity to continue doing the great work he did over a period of 11 years," she commented.

"I can honestly say as a mother who brought my children to Lough Boora to cycle when they were small, Pat was professional, polite and always had a great way about him. The kids always remembered Pats kindness and, of course, the free can of Fanta or Coke that they got when they left their bicycles back to the shed.

"My kids, just like many, many others in our county and beyond still hold fond memories of Pat years later. This latest move by Bord na Mona has angered people and has caused much frustration and hurt in our community which is currently undergoing a so-called Just Transition, a process that has created no jobs to date. It would appear that decent, hard working local people are not part of Bord na Monas transition or indeed any future plans.

"I have contacted Pat over the weekend and will be taking this matter up directly with Bord na Mona to check whether the tendering process was followed correctly and even if it was followed legally. It most certainly wasnt followed morally or decently. Many of us in this community will not accept the despicable behaviour of Bord na Mona which has stooped to a new low," Deputy Nolan concluded.




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I have a memory of Lucille Clifton responding to a young poet who asked her how she managed to be a productive publishing poet despite having to raise six children, by saying, I wrote shorter poems. Of Cliftons many brilliant truths, this stays with me. And this pithy elegy, 5/23/67 R.I.P., selected by Aracelis Girmay in a remarkable new gathering of Cliftons poetry, would have been written when her children were young, and when America was burning with uprisings, and when Langston Hughes died. She accepted the heavy mandate passed on to her by Langston Hughes, to remember now like/ it was, and we are the better for it.

5/23/67 R.I.P.

By Lucille Clifton

The house that is on fire

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running and crying

Oh who gone remember now like

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Langston gone.

***

We do not accept unsolicited manuscripts. American Life in Poetry is made possible by The Poetry Foundation (www.poetryfoundation.org), publisher of Poetry magazine. It is also supported by the Department of English at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Poem copyright 2020 by Lucille Clifton, 5/23/67 R.I.P. from How to Carry Water: Selected Poems of Lucille Clifton, (BOA, 2020). Poem reprinted by permission of Permissions Company, LLC and the publisher. Introduction copyright 2021 by The Poetry Foundation. The introductions author, Kwame Dawes, is George W. Holmes Professor of English and Glenna Luschei Editor of Prairie Schooner at the University of Nebraska.
Beverly Clearys lifelong commitment ... to brightening the lives of children and outstanding contributions to childrens literature are now a matter of federal record.

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awang@oregonian.com; Twitter: @ORAmyW
Oswego, NY (13126)

Today

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Tonight

Mainly clear. Low 59F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph.
Literary Arts announced the seven winners of its 2021 Oregon Book Awards during a Sunday night broadcast on OPB Radio.

The winners were chosen from among 173 submitted books, according to Andrew Proctor, executive director of Literary Arts, a Portland nonprofit.

The broadcast, hosted by previous Oregon Book Award winners Omar El Akkad and Elena Passarello, began with a tribute to longtime Oregon author Barry Lopez. A National Book Award finalist and Oregon Book Award winner, he hosted the awards ceremony in 2006 and was a recipient of Literary Arts C.E.S. Wood Distinguished Writer Award. Lopez died in December.

Here are the winners.

Ken Kesey Award for Fiction

The Great Offshore Grounds, by Vanessa Veselka: In this novel, three siblings set off on separate cross-country journeys, each driven by their own interpretation of the mythology their mother has built up around their family. (Read more about Vanessa Veselka.)

Stafford/Hall Award for Poetry

Hope of Stones, by Anna Elkins: This poetry collection was inspired by a 16th-century Spanish nun and an 18th-century French architect who each had a vision for creation.

Frances Fuller Victor Award for General Nonfiction

The Fire is Upon Us: James Baldwin, William F. Buckley Jr., and the Debate Over Race in America, by Nicholas Buccola: This book centers on what Buccola has called an intellectual prizefight for the ages, a high-profile 1965 debate between Baldwin and Buckley that the author uses as a prism through which to view the civil rights and conservative movements.

Sarah Winnemucca Award for Creative Nonfiction

Yellow Bird: Oil, Murder, and a Womans Search for Justice in Indian Country, by Sierra Crane Murdoch: A formerly incarcerated woman, now back home on the Fort Berthold Indian Reservation in North Dakota, pursues the case of a missing oil worker - and her own redemption.

Eloise Jarvis McGraw Award for Childrens Literature

A Game of Fox and Squirrels, by Jenn Reese: Two young sisters caught up in domestic abuse and sent to live with relatives are featured in this middle grade novel about family, home and magic.

Leslie Bradshaw Award for Young Adult Literature

The Sullivan Sisters, by Kathryn Ormsbee: Three estranged teenage sisters are enduring the holiday season when they learn about a surprise inheritance -- and a chilling family mystery.

Angus Bowmer Award for Drama

You Cannot Undo This Action, by Conor Eiffler: In this play, a social media post sets the stage for a hate crime, with devastating consequences for local high school students. SouthWest StageWorks and Teen West premiered the play in 2020 at what is now Ida B. Wells-Barnett High School in Southwest Portland.

The drama award is presented every other year, alternating with the award for graphic novels.

Literary Arts also announced three special awards:

Walt Morey Young Readers Literary Legacy Award: PlayWrite Inc. of Portland

The Stewart H. Holbrook Literary Legacy Award: Elizabeth Lyon of Eugene

C.E.S. Wood Distinguished Writer Award: Molly Gloss of Portland

Heres a list of all 35 finalists for this years Oregon Book Awards.

awang@oregonian.com; Twitter: @ORAmyW
Kroger, the parent company of Fred Meyer, is experimenting with delivery of groceries via drones in Ohio.

The Kroger Co. and Drone Express Monday announced a pilot to offer grocery delivery via autonomous drones.

Drone Express will commence test flights this week near the Kroger Marketplace in Centerville. The flights will be managed by licensed Drone Express pilots from an on-site trailer with additional off-site monitoring.

Customer deliveries are scheduled to begin later this spring, and a second pilot is scheduled to launch this summer at a Ralphs store in California.

Krogers new drone delivery pilot is part of the evolution of our rapidly growing and innovative e-commerce business  which includes pickup, delivery, and ship and reached more than $10 billion in sales in 2020, Krogers Jody Kalmbach, group vice president of product experience, said in a joint release from the two companies. The pilot reinforces the importance of flexibility and immediacy to customers, powered by modern and efficient last-mile solutions. Were excited to test drone delivery and gain insights that will inform expansion plans as well as future customer solutions.

The idea is to allow package delivery to the location of a customers smartphone.

The current weight limit for drone delivery is about five pounds.

As an example of the service possible, Kroger will offer a baby care bundle with wipes and formula, a child wellness bundle with over-the-counter medications and fluids, and a Smores bundle with graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate. Using Kroger.com/DroneDelivery, customers can place orders and have eligible orders delivered within as little as 15 minutes.

Autonomous drones have unlimited potential to improve everyday life, and our technology opens the way to safe, secure, environmentally friendly deliveries for Kroger customers, said Beth Flippo, chief technology officer of TELEGRID. The possibilities for customers are endless  we can enable Kroger customers to send chicken soup to a sick friend or get fast delivery of olive oil if they run out while cooking dinner.

Drone Express is a division of TELEGRID Technologies.

The launch of the pilot in Centerville is the culmination of months of meticulous research and development by Kroger and Drone Express to better serve and meet the needs of our customers, said Ethan Grob, Krogers director of last mile strategy and product. We look forward to progressing from test flights to customer deliveries this spring, introducing one more way for our customers to experience Kroger.

The facility New Jersey-based Drone Express will serve as a hub for the manufacturing, testing and piloting of autonomous drones for commercial package delivery, a representative of the company told the Dayton Daily News and the JournalNews.

Drone Express estimates that it will need to fill 50 to 100 full-time positions as the 7,200 square-foot facility in Monroe, Ohio, becomes fully operational in the next few months.

Referred to as The Hive, the Monroe facility is expected to be one of the largest in the state dedicated to the manufacture, testing and piloting of drones for commercial use.
TriMet Blue Line riders in Portlands southeast area will see delays and shuttle buses as part of their commutes Monday through Friday, May 3-7.

Crews will be working on track improvements between Civic Drive and the E. 122nd Avenue platform 7 a.m. Monday through 8 p.m. Friday. Shuttle buses will be serving riders between these two stations. Commuters should add at least an extra 30 minutes to their trips.

For more information on the track project visit the TriMet website.

Due to COVID-19 precautions, buses and trains will have rider limits. TriMet requires riders to wear face coverings on all its vehicles.

Blue Line service disruption map, May 3-7, 2021

***

VISTA RIDGE TUNNEL 7:38 a.m.: Crash reported on the ramp from I-405 southbound to U.S. 30 westbound. Expect slowing.

***

Paving work on Southeast Division Street between 130th -148th avenues will slow traffic starting Monday, May 3.

The Portland Bureau of Transportation will have crews out in the area for about four weeks during the hours of 5 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays and occasionally on weekends.

Travelers through the area should expect rough road conditions, intermittent lane closures, and traffic delays during work hours. Pedestrian access will remain open for the duration of the project.

MLive File Photo

Heads up for street closures Tuesday in downtown Troutdale: A section of the Historic Columbia River Highway in downtown Troutdale between Buxton Road and Southeast Kibling Street will be closed 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Tuesday, May 4 for the filming of a scene for a television show.

Signs will direct drivers to the detour route on Southeast Second Street, one block south of the Historic Highway.

Check back throughout the morning for the latest commuting updates and follow us on Twitter: @trafficportland
A federal judge on Monday sentenced a man to prison for 10 years for stalking his ex-wife and two daughters from New Mexico to Oregon after they had moved, changed their names, obtained protective orders and got guns to protect themselves.

U.S. District Judge Michael W. Mosman described Oscar Adrian Marquez as unusually unhinged, making him more dangerous and less predictable, as well as unusually obsessed with his victims.

Marquez, 47, was convicted of stalking, cyberstalking and three counts of interstate violation of a protective order after a three-day trial in November.

When his wife ended their failed marriage, which was marked by physical and emotional abuse, her fear of Marquez didnt subside, she testified at trial. She and her two daughters lived in a state of constant fear that Marquez would find and harm them and took the appropriate measures to try to keep safe, prosecutors said.

Yet even though they traveled more than 1,000 miles to get away from Marquez and start a new life, it wasnt enough, prosecutor Ashely R. Cadotte told jurors at trial.

Marquez discovered his ex-wifes address in Oregon and she spotted him about 11 a.m. on July 29, 2019, driving back and forth in front of her their new home.

A Portland police car arrived and Marquez drove by a third time. Police moved in and arrested him. Inside the car police found dark gloves and a black mask in the drivers door panel and a replica BB gun under the drivers seat.

Marquez denied he wanted to threaten anybody, said he didnt remember passing by the home, that he had gone to a dispensary that day in the area to get some weed and was in Portland because he was thinking of starting a tattoo shop in the city, according to his trial testimony.

Marquezs ex-wife and his daughters urged the court to sentence Marquez to the maximum time permitted, saying they never know when hes going to show up outside their door again.

They thanked Portland police, the FBI and prosecutors for taking their case seriously.

Mosman agreed to the victims request that the federal Bureau of Prisons not place Marquez at a prison anywhere near Oregon or New Mexico.

I will say that there has never been a case in my career, in which I feel that it is more important to follow this piece of my recommendation, than this case in front of me here today, the judge said.

Before the court was adjourned, Marquez, who represented himself at sentencing, alerted the judge he intends to appeal.

-- Maxine Bernstein

Email at mbernstein@oregonian.com; 503-221-8212

Follow on Twitter @maxoregonian https://twitter.com/maxoregonian
A Florida man and his alleged accomplices traveled to Portland with the sole purpose of breaking into womens cars -- typically by cruising parks, day cares and gyms -- to steal their purses, wallets and identification and then recruited locals to cash almost $100,000 in forged checks at banks around town, federal prosecutors said.

Damian B. Fletcher, 27, and his alleged cohort found women with drug addictions and homeless people to impersonate the victims and collect the money, said Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth Uram.

Fletcher and his conspirators would use the outermost lane of a bank drive-up window so it would be harder for a bank teller to compare a stolen drivers license photo to the impersonator and to ensure a quicker getaway if someone became suspicious, Uram said.

Fletcher was sentenced Monday to just over three years in prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit bank fraud and aggravated identity theft. He was also ordered to pay $98,733 in restitution.

He is one of six defendants charged in the case and the first to be sentenced. Four of the other defendants are from Florida. One is from Washington state.

He and his crew also flew to Washington state and Colorado to commit a similar scheme, Uram said.

Prosecutors described Fletcher as part of a so-called Felony Lane Gang, an interstate criminal group based in Florida that travels to locations throughout the country to commit vehicle break-in and fraud. Law enforcement and bank personnel have dubbed the outer lane in a bank drive-up as the felony lane, because its the chosen lane for such crimes, Uram wrote in his sentencing memo.

Fletcher and his group broke into at least 32 cars in the Portland area and stole $98,733 after cashing 22 checks at five banks, according to court records. The banks were able to stop payment on some of the checks but ultimately lost $57,650, prosecutors said.

The group tried to cash another $122,000 in checks but were rejected, Uram said.

Fletcher and his co-conspirators were in some instances bold enough and uncaring enough to prey on women who left their cars for only a few minutes to walk their children into day care locations, Uram wrote to the judge.

Other women lost items of significant sentimental value, according to court documents. One had a wedding ring stolen. Another had a purse snatched that was one of the last gifts she received from her elderly father.

Fletcher flew from Fort Lauderdale to Portland at least three times between September 2019 and November 2019, staying in Portland from two to five weeks at a time, Uram said.

Fletchers defense lawyer, Jamie Kilberg, described his clients crimes as as unsophisticated as a bank fraud case can be. Fletcher didnt make fake IDs or counterfeit checks, for example, Kilberg said. He also doesnt have a criminal history, his lawyer said.

Fletcher is the father of a 3-year-old son who has lived his entire life in the Fort Lauderdale area, Kilberg said. Kilberg sought a lesser sentence of two years and six months.

But while the prosecutor agreed that Fletchers crime spree wasnt complicated or terribly technical, he described it as extremely personal, saying that Fletcher and the other smash-and-grab defendants hit cars just as their owners and occupants had walked away or were about to return.

The physical invasion of privacy, the emotional reaction to seeing a persons safety zone violated in that way, and then of course, the financial difficulties were devastating and disruptive to the victims, Uram said.

Fletcher appeared for his sentencing via video from the Miami area and apologized to his victims.

U.S. District Judge Michael W. Mosman sentenced him to one year and one day for the bank fraud conspiracy, which will allow Fletcher to earn credit for good time served, and two years in prison for the aggravated identity theft conviction.

He also ordered Fletcher to submit to substance abuse testing when hes completed his prison term while on post-prison supervision.

Co-defendants Delvin Mills, 29, of Lauderdale Lakes, Florida, Megan Spurlock, 27, of Washington, and Linda Marie Lupo, 52, of Deerfield, Florida, have all pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing. Justin Curry, 28 of Fort Lauderdale, and Treveon Donte Jordan, 23, of Lauderdale Lakes, are on pre-trial release pending a four-day jury trial scheduled for June 15.

-- Maxine Bernstein

Email mbernstein@oregonian.com; 503-221-8212

Follow on Twitter @maxoregonian
At least one person struck the Oregon Holocaust Memorial in Southwest Portlands Washington Park, scrawling swastikas across the memorials stone wall, city officials said.

The vile vandalism, written in white, also included the numbers 1488, a symbol popular among neo-Nazis and other white supremacists, a photo reviewed by The Oregonian/OregonLive shows.

Portland and other communities around the U.S. recognize May as Jewish American Heritage Month.

Police notified parks bureau staff of the anti-Semitic graffiti about 11 a.m. Sunday, said Mark Ross, a Portland Parks & Recreation spokesman.

Maintenance crews later managed to remove the graffiti, Ross said, adding that the vandalism remains under investigation by police.

The damage to the Oregon Holocaust Memorial is heartbreaking, and its particularly painful that it happened during Jewish American Heritage Month, Mayor Ted Wheeler said in a statement. I denounce hate crimes, anti-Semitism, and white supremacy.

The Portland Police Bureau said Monday that investigators were looking into the vandalism, which also included anti-semitic tagging on signs and concrete barriers near the park, but no arrests had been made.

They asked anyone with information about the graffiti, including surveillance footage from the surrounding neighborhood to contact police by e-mail at crimetips@portlandoregon.gov, referencing case 21-117659.

In 2016, someone painted a swastika on a statue of former Portland Mayor Vera Katz located on the citys Eastbank Esplanade. Katz and her Jewish family had fled Nazi Germany when she was a child in the early 1930s.

The Oregon Holocaust Memorial was dedicated in 2004.

At the end of the memorial wall is a soil vault panel, where soil and ash are interred from six extermination camps of the Holocaust.

Engraved in the granite panels on the backside of the wall are the names of people who died in the camps, as well as their surviving relatives who live in Oregon and southwest Washington.

-- Shane Dixon Kavanaugh; 503-294-7632

Email at skavanaugh@oregonian.com

Follow on Twitter @shanedkavanaugh

Subscribe to Oregonian/OregonLive newsletters and podcasts for the latest news and top stories.
Longtime Linfield University trustee Ronni Lacroute, who endowed a Shakespeare studies chair to keep English professor Daniel Pollack-Pelzner at the private college, resigned Sunday from the board in protest of his abrupt firing.

In a letter to Linfields board, president and provost, Lacroute wrote that she could no longer serve in good conscience as a trustee.

I am appalled by the summary termination of an esteemed, brilliant and respected tenured faculty member ... who out of a sense of moral obligation has sought for the past year to bring deep-seated problems to light in order to help the Linfield community to thrive.

Pollack-Pelzner, who had served as a faculty trustee, was fired Tuesday after he denounced the universitys handling of sexual misconduct allegations from students and faculty against board members, alleged that President Miles K. Davis had made an anti-Semitic remark about the length of Jewish noses and accused Davis of retaliating against him for speaking out.

The university, in a statement last week, said Pollack-Pelzner was fired for cause after he deliberately circulated false statements about the university, its employees and its board, was insubordinate and interfered with the universitys administration of its responsibilities.

Lacroute, a trustee for more than a decade, resigned after attending an hours-long board meeting Saturday, when she said members were told to be positive and that the school was headed in the right direction.

Lacroute, who has contributed more than $4 million to the school, said shell continue to support the university and the McMinnville community. Earlier this year, she was recognized as Fundraising Supporter of the Decade, as part of the 2020 BroadwayWorld Regional Awards, according to the university.

Ronni Lacroute, a lover and ardent supporter of theater arts, with Prof. Daniel Pollack-Pelzner, at the inauguration of Linfield's President Miles K. Davis in March 2019. Pollack-Pelzner held the Ronni Lacroute Endowed Chair in Shakespeare Studies before his firing on Tuesday.

Lacroute lives in Yamhill County. In 1991, she co-founded a vineyard and what became the world-class winery WillaKenzie Estate on 420 acres of property that had previously been a cattle farm, pastures and forest. As co-owner with her former husband, she immersed herself in the wine business for a quarter century until selling the winery in 2016.

She has been a donor to Linfield for more than two decades through three university presidents, creating specific funds to support faculty, staff and students, including the Ronni Lacroute Endowed Chair in Shakespeare Studies that Pollack-Pelzner held.

Lacroute, a theater lover who has provided financial support for many theater organizations and productions in the Pacific Northwest, said she created the $2 million endowed chair in April 2016 for Pollack-Pelzner as a way to keep Daniel at Linfield because he was such a stunning professor. Pollack-Pelzner obtained tenure and was promoted to associate professor that same year.

She said she learned of his firing from another faculty member.

I was incensed, she said. You just dont do that. The university didnt want negative communication, but thats not how you stop it. Its how you make it worse. You take care of the problems. You just dont suppress speech.

Lacroute also has created the Lacroute Arts Fund, Lacroute Composer Readings and Chamber Music Program, Lacroute Initiative for Advancing the Liberal Arts and the Lacroute Endowed Academic Achievement Scholarship at Linfield.

Lacroute said she doesnt accept the explanation from the university and Davis that the faculty handbook didnt apply to Pollack-Pelzner because he was fired for cause as an employee and not for the work he did as a professor . The handbook outlined a process for disciplining tenured professors that called for a statement of charges at least 20 days before a faculty committee hearing is held.

Pollack-Pelzner, 41, had his work laptop shut off while he was still on a work-related Zoom meeting Tuesday afternoon and learned he was no longer employed in a message that bounced back to his personal email when he sent a message to his university email. He received a termination letter via FedEx on Wednesday.

Pollack-Pelzner had pushed the board to do more to address allegations of sexual misconduct by four board members, including David Jubb, a trustee who resigned and is now facing indictment. Jubb pleaded not guilty to allegations of abusing a student trustee in 2019 and abusing three other students in 2017. Another Linfield professor filed complaints last year, alleging that Davis and another trustee, Norm Nixon, had touched her inappropriately at school events. An outside investigator found the professors allegations were substantiated by a preponderance of the evidence, but the behavior didnt violate university policy. Another students allegation of inappropriate touching by another sitting trustee in May 2019 was never investigated.

Lacroute said she also was dismayed to learn campus security workers washed off chalk messages written by students on campus that expressed support for Pollack-Pelzner.

On Sunday, when Linfield held Carmencement -- a drive-through graduation with students arriving by car and receiving their diplomas during specific time slots -- faculty members also reported that campus security had entered faculty offices and removed posters in support of Pollack-Pelzner. Among those removed were ones that read, We Stand With DPP, Pollack-Pelzners initials, or student printed signs that said, KEEP CALM AND TAKE EXTRAORDINARY STEPS, a play on the provosts subject line extraordinary step in her announcement of Pollack-Pelzners firing.

English professor Anna Keesey said she was in T.J. Day Hall after attending the graduation when she said she noticed two campus security officials remove a poster from another faculty members office. When she asked for the poster to hold it for her colleague, she said she was told she couldnt because it was being confiscated as evidence, Keesey said.

Suppressing voices of dissent only causes further damage, Lacroute wrote to the board. I also cannot accept the administrations claims that there are no problems anymore related to sexual misconduct or student safety on campus.

Lacroute cited a recent online student survey held from April 27 through April 29 by psychology professors, which found that students overwhelmingly believe the university harbors a culture where victims do not feel heard.

When will Linfield University seriously address the problems of gender oppression, patriarchal values, and silencing of dissent? Lacroute asked in her letter.

Citing her significant financial investments in the universitys College of Arts and Sciences, she urged the trustees to pay attention to what the students on campus, many faculty members and alumni are asking you to do so that Linfield University can restore its reputation, heal its community, and thrive.

Scott Nelson, university spokesman, said late Sunday that he wasnt aware of Lacroutes decision to leave the board. We regret her decision, as she has been a strong supporter of the university. Shes a wonderful person and one of the best supporters of the arts in the region, he said by email.

Asked why posters were removed from campus buildings, Nelson said he saw one protest sign on a car during the seven hours, that he attended Sundays Car-mencement, which he said drew about 230 families in limos, floats and tour buses.

I didnt notice any other signs on campus today, he wrote by email, and dont have a comment on anything else.

Linfields board of trustees has about 30 members, and is responsible for working with the president and top administrators to approve major policies, make long range plans, and oversee the budget. Linfields board is led by its chair, David Baca, a 1978 Linfield graduate and partner in the Davis Wright Tremaine law firm, who recently was reelected to another three-year term on the board. Last May, faculty from the College of Arts & Sciences overwhelmingly passed a vote of no confidence in Baca, finding he failed to protect students after receiving a complaint in 2018 from a graduate who accused Jubb of sexually abusing her and two of her friends. Faculty supported the motion 88 to 18.

-- Maxine Bernstein

Email at mbernstein@oregonian.com; 503-221-8212

Follow on Twitter @maxoregonian
When Don DuPay found her in the Plaid Pantry store, the woman was sprawled on her back, her clothes torn from her body. Shed been raped and then knifed to death.

A week earlier -- the first week of September in 1975 -- the Portland police detective had taken on another distressing case, this one involving a Black teenager shot to death in his bedroom. DuPay showed up late for the autopsy, hoping to avoid seeing the medical examiner saw into the boys skull.

The 39-year-old cop didnt know it, but hed reached a tipping point.

One day at around this time, DuPay was sitting at his kitchen table when he began to sob. He couldnt stop. After half an hour or so, he retreated to another room, where he continued to weep. His wife eventually called his precinct. DuPay ended up in the hospital.

His career was over, he decided. Hed seen too much. More important, he knew too much: about the pushed-aside murders that should have been solved, about police corruption that poisoned the city.

Years would pass before he realized he should write it all down.

***

Don DuPay hasnt been a cop for decades. Hes often critical of law enforcement today, particularly the militarization of police departments and the power of police unions.

He also remains loyal to the job. The average citizen doesnt understand what its like to be a police officer, the former detective says. Reform is necessary in policing, he adds, but most people calling for it dont know what theyre talking about.

And they have no idea how bad things used to be.

A few years ago, DuPay started writing about his police career, intent on laying it all out, knowing there werent many people left who could tell the story. He doesnt see it as score settling, though he does some of that. What he wants is justice.

Theres no statute of limitations on murder, he points out.

Sixty years ago, when he was hired by the Portland Police Bureau, DuPay proudly considered himself one of the New Breed of officers in the profession. They were young men -- still almost exclusively men -- who considered themselves thinkers, not brutes. They wanted to bring about a revolution in policing.

I was pretty idealistic, he says. I thought if I put enough people in jail, Id make the world a better place.

North Williams Avenue and Russell Street was once the commercial center for Black residents in Portland. (Oregonian archives)

Through much of the 1960s, DuPay worked Northeast Portlands Albina district, where most of the citys small Black population lived. He said that, after getting the lay of the land, he started to do something unusual for the neighborhood: police work.

I got a good view of what was going on in Albina, which is they werent doing anything, he says. There was no law enforcement happening there.

The policing problems in the district were entrenched and varied, but one man embodied them: Jim Purcell.

Purcell had been Portlands police chief in the mid-1950s until corruption allegations broke into the open. But he wasnt booted out of the bureau. Instead, he was knocked down to captain and sent to North Precinct. He now ran Portlands north and northeast quadrants like he once ran the entire city -- as his own personal fiefdom.

They called him Diamond Jim, says Clyde Harmon, a retired lieutenant who as a young cop in the 1960s served under Purcell. We didnt see the captain very much. He was into horses. I believe he had his own horse.

Purcells attitude seemed to be that Albina didnt need to be policed -- that as long as the drug-dealing and killings stayed in the Black community, there was nothing to worry about.

The Albina District suffered from persistent neglect in the 1960s and '70s. Shown here is Union Avenue (now Martin Luther King Boulevard) and Skidmore Street in 1978. (The Oregonian)Oregonian

The captain apparently wasnt the only one who thought this way.

North Precinct at that time was a dumping ground for old and tired cops, Harmon says. There were crooked ones too, guys with their hand out. Harmon says he and other good officers tried to avoid them.

This meant Albina was Portlands Wild West, a dangerous district largely abandoned to rival criminal factions, with residents who had straight jobs stuck in the middle.

DuPay tried to change that. He made the rounds of nightclubs and other neighborhood establishments every day, building relationships, trying to figure out what was going on, making arrests when he could.

Kings Tavern on North Williams was the absolute worst -- a den of drugs and prostitution, he says. Red Sands at Union and Shaver had a fight and a shooting every night. The Paragon Club wasnt much better. He got each of them temporarily shut down, he says. Red Sands lost its liquor license just months after DuPay started working in Albina.

Farther north, DuPay wasnt allowed to close up Fat Mary Williams brothel, he says, because Purcell protected it. But he sat in front of the dilapidated house in his squad car, doing his daily reports, his presence discouraging business.

Don DuPay was one of the Portland Police Bureau's youngest detectives in the 1970s. (Photo: City of Portland)

Along the way, DuPay found something strange and unexpected happening to him.

He liked being in Albina. He enjoyed the people. He saw there was a real community in the district that couldnt be dismissed. He found himself questioning some of his own prejudices, inculcated by his mother.

For most young cops, Portlands Black neighborhood served as a way station, but I wanted to work Albina, DuPay says. Thats where my heart seemed to be.

DuPay is a loner by nature; his performance reviews pointed out that he tended to have difficulty with his personal relations with other police officers  due to a rather cool personality. Still, other young cops noticed what DuPay was doing in Albina, and they liked what they saw.

He did a lot of good stuff there, Harmon says. He was a hard-working son of a gun.

The younger police officers in North Precinct, like DuPay, wanted to do what we were supposed to be doing, Harmon adds. They wanted to serve the people.

Former Portland Police Chief James Purcell Jr. came to be known as "Diamond Jim." (Photo: The Oregonian archive)

The precincts captain, however, wasnt similarly impressed with Don DuPay. He harassed the patrolman, berated him, made him direct traffic in front of the precinct. In 1967, Jim Purcell wrote in a bureau memo that it was felt in the best interest of the department  to remove him from the area -- the area being Albina. Purcell cited repeated complaints lodged against him.

Though still just a junior officer, DuPay dared to rebuke the powerful captain, writing to Chief Donald McNamara that Purcells aspersions clearly were not true, seeing as complaints had not been called to either my attention or my relief commanders attention. He also noted that his last performance evaluation had rated him excellent.

If DuPay was worried about getting blowback from Purcell, Fate soon intervened.

In March 1968, five months after DuPay wrote to the chief, 59-year-old Diamond Jim Purcell suddenly died.

DuPay asked to be a pallbearer at Purcells police funeral. The reason, he told anyone who asked: I want to carry that bastard to his grave.

The request was denied.

***

One afternoon when Don DuPay was 9 years old, his mother frantically called him out to the windmill on the familys Montana farm. She pointed, and he looked up and saw his father dangling about 10 feet up, his head squeezed between two sections of the support structure.

Youve got to get him, Don! he remembers his mother telling him. Youve got to climb up and get him!

DuPay scrambled up the windmill, managed to pry his father free, and the two of them tumbled to the ground, huffing, moaning in pain.

This wasnt the first time his father had tried to die by suicide.

Young Don DuPay and his dog Tippy. (Photo: Courtesy of Don DuPay)

More than 70 years later, DuPays third wife, poet and editor Theresa Griffin Kennedy, is convinced the experience is the reason DuPay became a cop: He had a need to save people. She believes its also why he had trouble dealing with the tragic events almost every cop witnesses on the job.

DuPay, for his part, isnt so sure.

Maybe on some sublevel that could be true, he says. I dont know.

Despite the stress and trauma brought on by his fathers depressive periods, DuPay insists he had an idyllic childhood. In 1947 the family moved to Portland, where his parents opened a drive-in restaurant.

I spent Saturdays watching matinees at Hollywood Theatre, he says. I learned to ride my bike backwards, which kind of made me the talk of the neighborhood.

He could have gone into the restaurant business with his parents. (Thats how he met his first wife, Nanci -- she was a carhop at the drive-in.) He could have finished college, having put in two years at Lewis & Clark before joining the Navy.

Don DuPay, center, with his parents and his twin sisters. (Courtesy of Don DuPay)

But policing called to him. Hed become convinced he could make his community better by putting on a badge.

Hes not sure he was right about that, but he did move up the ranks quickly. By the time he was 31, hed been promoted to detective. He was so much younger than the other detectives in the burglary unit that they all called him The Kid.

DuPay enjoyed working burglary. This was the era of the safecracker. Before commerce went digital, businesses large and small had safes filled with cash. And every city had burglars intent on busting them open.

In one high-profile case, DuPay and his partner John Wesson figured out who had emptied the Portland Zoos safe one night in 1969 -- a cocky yegg named Billy Lewis -- and managed to tie evidence directly to the mans new wife. Lewis ended up with a 10-year sentence.

Then there was an ingenious 1973 diamonds robbery that went unreported to the police because, the FBI noted, the owner was not aware the diamonds were taken. Wesson and DuPay managed to uncover the scheme anyway, leading the feds to bust a traveling salesman, Charles Eugene Wright, in Las Vegas. The G-man in charge of the case wrote to Chief McNamara to commend the detectives work.

These were the glory years: Harmon remembers DuPay striding around Central Precinct in a suit, a smirk pasted on his face, his tight gaze seeing only the business at hand. He didnt begrudge the detective his swagger.

You work long hours, and youre not home as much as youd like to be, Harmon says. But its a great job if you put your mind to it, your heart. He did that.

Detectives John Wesson and Don DuPay investigate a burglary at the Portland Zoo in 1969. (Photo: City of Portland Archives)

But those long hours -- and the stress of the job -- had begun to carve away at DuPays emotional defenses. His marriage to Nanci, the former carhop, crumbled in the wake of relentless infidelities.

DuPay then met Artent Thomas, a beautiful young woman who had perfect disco hips -- this was the late 1970s -- and charisma to burn. Except this was exchanging one fraught relationship for another. He says Thomas was addicted to cocaine and turned tricks to feed her habit.

I thought maybe I could reform her, DuPay says.

Instead, struggling with depression and nightmares, he ended up dipping into her coke stash himself.

When you get involved with cocaine, its very exciting, he says. At first.

DuPay pulled himself together after about a year, but not in time for a happy ending with his girlfriend.

Thomas was discovered in Seattles Frink Park on a gusty day in May 1980. Shed been stabbed more than a dozen times. Another of her boyfriends confessed to the murder.

***

Don DuPay is still haunted by dead bodies.

Barbara Jean Carrico was the name of the woman murdered in the Plaid Pantry on Sunday, Sept. 14, 1975.

It was one of the worst things Ive ever seen, DuPay says. Ill never forget it.

For decades he avoided 60th and Burnside, the convenience stores location.

That day of the murder, a patrolman came upon the suspect, a drifter named Donald Ray Rister, and shot him, wounding the man in the neck. Rister was taken to a nearby hospital.

DuPay had wanted to make the arrest himself, but in retrospect hes glad he wasnt there.

If Id have found him, I probably would have killed him, he says. I saw what he did to her.

Theresa Griffin Kennedy and Don DuPay in 2013, the year they married. (Photo: Courtesy of Don DuPay)

DuPay wasnt on the Homicide Detail for long, and he closed almost all of the murder cases he handled.

But he never did arrest anyone for killing Zebedee Manning, the teenager DuPay found in a bedroom with a gun blast to the head.

The scene at the small, Northeast Hancock Street house was hinky.

The boy was on his bed, on his back, eyes closed. He had his hands folded over his chest, funeral-style, a sawed-off rifle tucked into an arm. DuPay looked long and hard at the boy, at the room. Something was obviously wrong here.

Yet the next day, DuPays boss said Manning had been declared a suicide, case closed.

DuPay protested. People who shoot themselves dont look like theyre peacefully napping, he pointed out. Theyre flopped awkwardly. Eyes snapped open.

Not to mention the gunshot holes in the bedrooms walls, and various other evidence in the house that indicated multiple people had been there with Zebedee around the time of the death.

Didnt matter. It was done. The boys name already had been erased from the Homicide Details chalkboard. DuPay was told to move on to something else.

DuPay had been teetering on the edge for months. He had a bleeding ulcer and high blood pressure. The Manning case pushed him over.

That was the end of it for me, he says. If they can say I cant investigate a murder, Im done.

He checked out, glazed over, punched the clock. A little over two years later, he resigned from the police bureau, taking no pension. He made a clean break, accepting an offer to become security chief at the Benson Hotel.

But he didnt move on from Zebedee Manning. He still hasnt.

In 2017, with the police shooting of 17-year-old Portlander Quanice Hayes roiling the city, DuPay wrote on Facebook: Say his name: Zebedee Manning. Say his name: Zebedee Manning. Say his name: Zebedee Manning. Say his name: Zebedee Manning. This 15-year-old Black youth actually WAS murdered by police.

Four years later, he again wrote about Manning on the social-media platform: This boy 15 years old was murdered by Portland Police for some drugs he was hiding for his uncle. He is interred at Rose City Cemetery.

Don DuPay and his second wife, Merrilee, on the day they got married. (Photo: Courtesy of Don DuPay)

DuPay had now reinvented himself as a writer, with his wifes enthusiastic encouragement.

Hes had the most amazing, tragic life, Theresa says of her 84-year-old husband. He has stories he has to tell.

In 2015, DuPay published Behind the Badge in River City through the boutique press Theresa runs. The Manning case was a key chapter. A follow-up memoir is coming later this year.

J.B. Fisher, a local historian and author of the 2019 book Echo of Distant Water: The 1958 Disappearance of Portlands Martin Family, says DuPays writing counts as valuable historical documentation, capturing a gritty, pre-gentrification Portland and all of its uncomfortable realities. He adds that DuPays recounting of Mannings death hits especially hard.

He knew that it was a racially motivated set-up, and he also knew that such things were not isolated incidents in 1970s Portland, Fisher says.

But writing about the Manning case didnt exorcize this particular demon for Don DuPay. He continued to investigate the teenagers death on his own. He now believes he knows what happened and whos responsible.

He says dirty narcotics cops found out that Zebedee was hiding heroin for his uncle, a drug pusher well known to Portland police. These officers went over to the Manning family home, but Zebedee wouldnt give up the drugs, DuPay surmises. They tried to intimidate the boy, scare him, and things got out of hand.

This theory isnt necessarily as outlandish as it might sound. The 1970s saw the war on drugs running white hot. Vice cops at the time sometimes used illegal drugs when working undercover, to prove their bona fides to the dealers they were trying to bust. Some of the officers became addicts themselves. And addicts -- even cop addicts -- often end up committing crimes to fuel their habit.

DuPay can picture the scene at Mannings home that day in September 1975.

The officers were probably high, he says. They just lost control and shot him in the head. And tried to cover it up.

DuPay says some of the cops he believes were involved in Zebedee Mannings death later got caught up in a police scandal that followed a deadly 1979 raid on a motorcycle gangs hangout. The resulting official investigation concluded that a group of Portland vice officers had planted drugs on suspects, stolen money from them, fabricated evidence and committed perjury.

DuPay says he took his work on the Manning case to Portland city officials in the 1990s and received a promise that it would be taken seriously. Nothing happened.

I know who did it, DuPay says of Zebedee Mannings killing. But I cant say [publicly] until he dies.

***

The fallout from Don DuPays final, traumatic years as a Portland police detective proved long-lasting.

He continued to wrestle with depression and sudden anger, until a diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder led to some self-forgiveness -- and a search for treatment. He married again, to a woman named Merrilee Smith, and they had a son, Lee. The interracial couple moved into a new home in Northeast Portland, DuPays old professional stomping ground, but they didnt feel welcome. One day they found a small wooden cross burned into their front yard, DuPay says. The marriage imploded in an ugly fashion. (In the years that followed, Lee grew up largely rootless -- and spiraled out of control, becoming a meth addict. Hes now in prison in Washington state.)

DuPay ended up running a homeless shelter for Transition Projects. He finally felt comfortable in a job.

It was kind of a natural for me, he says. Addicts, drunks. I know how to talk to them.

He was a pot-smoker now -- it helped the PTSD. In fact, the former cop whod made dozens of marijuana-possession busts in the 1960s became a vocal marijuana advocate in the 1990s, backing legalization for medical purposes. He hosted a cable-access show called Cannabis Common Sense.

This raised his profile, and so, with prodding from friends and fellow pot activists, DuPay launched a longshot 2006 bid for Multnomah County Sheriff.

He wore T-shirts on the campaign trail, along with a bandana wrapped around his head to hold back his long hair.

And he didnt skimp on his opinion of the incumbent, Sheriff Bernie Giusto, who faced sundry allegations of ethics breaches.

I knew morally he was unfit, DuPay says.

Multnomah County Sheriff Bernie Giusto in 2008. (Photo: The Oregonian)LC- THE OREGONIAN

He promised to be a very different kind of sheriff.

DuPay advocated for bringing on citizen observers in jails and to ride along with the deputies. He called for the unused Wapato Jail to be remade into a homeless shelter.

The press loved covering him -- he was colorful. One account described him as a pot-smoking grandfather and pointed out that he wears no undershirt beneath his oxford shirt, which makes it easy to show off the blurry blue Navy tattoo on his left pectoral.

DuPay told reporters he kept a .38 Smith & Wesson in his car, and that they should pack heat too.

The police are not your bodyguards, he said. Nobody can protect you but you.

He didnt win. He scored more than 21,000 votes, a decent haul for an oddball political newcomer with no money, but that wasnt even half as many as the much-better-known Giusto garnered.

"Up in Smoke" actor Tommy Chong with pot activist Don DuPay. (Photo courtesy of Don DuPay)

It was just as well. Who knows, being sheriff might have brought bad memories -- and their attendant anxieties -- flooding back. He was glad he had quit his police career when he did.

So again he was done with being a cop. But the cops werent done with him.

In 1998, Oregon voters followed DuPays advice and passed a medical marijuana law, but that meant nothing to federal authorities. The Drug Enforcement Agency announced that, at its Portland office, marijuana is not viewed as medicine, period.

Just months after the sheriffs election, DEA agents raided DuPays home, seizing guns and marijuana growing equipment. The guns were legally owned, and DuPay was growing weed for registered Oregon medical marijuana patients.

As the feds tromped through his home, DuPay made plain what he thought of them.

As far as Im concerned, youre a baldheaded punk, he said to one of the cops.

The agents told him to cooperate with a larger marijuana investigation or hed be arrested and prosecuted. DuPay refused. No prosecution followed.

Five years later, however, Portland police arrived at the apartment building where he was living after reports of possible shots being fired from somewhere nearby. DuPay, now in his 70s, told them to get lost when they tried to question him. He says hed learned one important thing from his 17 years as a cop: Dont talk to cops.

They arrested him. He spent a couple nights in the Multnomah County Jail and faced a bench trial for recklessly endangering another person and discharge of a firearm in the city. The evidence hovered between scant and none. The judge found him not guilty.

Convinced the police bureau had retaliated against him for long-ago grudges, as well as for his marijuana advocacy, DuPay filed a complaint with the Independent Police Review Board.

So its probably no surprise that Don DuPay still has harsh words for the police. But at the same time, he admits, once a cop, always a cop.

His former colleague Clyde Harmon, who retired in 1999, says that things changed a lot in the Portland Police Bureau over the 35 years he worked there. It got better and better. DuPay acknowledges this is probably true.

A man runs through the portico of Portland's federal courthouse carrying a sign that says "defund the police" during unrest in July 2020. (Photo: Beth Nakamura/The Oregonian)

DuPay wants to see meaningful police reform. He recognizes that there are a lot of good cops who suffer because the bad ones get the publics attention. But the police union, he says, allows bad cops to remain.

Nothing is ever going to change until you get rid of Internal Affairs, he insists, referring to the police division tasked with policing officers. There shouldnt be special justice for the police.

DuPay may have his issues with the police, but he also recognizes how important the job is, how crucial it is to a functioning society. And how difficult and emotionally draining the work can be.

He looks at Portlands cops today, after a year of street protests calling to defund or even abolish the police, and sees strikingly low morale. He sees officers unwilling to do their jobs because they know the politicians wont back them up.

He points to the Red House on Mississippi incident late last year, sparked by activists swarming officers who were trying to evict squatters from a foreclosed home. The officers fled. When the city then allowed protesters to barricade North Mississippi Avenue in front of the house, with the standoff lasting for days, DuPay knew what that meant.

Portland, he says, is screwed.

-- Douglas Perry

dperry@oregonian.com

@douglasmperry
Closures and restrictions due to COVID-19 continue to devastate Oregons farmers, brewers, distributors, restaurants and bars. The last thing these homegrown businesses need are tax increases hidden behind the guise of a taxpayer-funded task force that would be formed by House Bill 3377. Before COVID-19, Oregon was home to a thriving brewing sector, which helped support 43,000 jobs, $2 billion in wages for Oregonians and $6.5 billion in economic activity, according to a study commissioned by the beer industry. Sadly, economists estimate Oregon lost 10,000 of those jobs since COVID-19.

Despite these struggles, the alcohol sector remains the third-largest source of revenue. Yet only 3.5% of Oregons existing alcohol tax revenue is dedicated to addiction recovery and prevention. Before raising taxes on Oregons beer, wine, cider and spirits, we need to examine why existing dollars are not being spent on these programs. Unfortunately, HB 3377 includes predetermined outcomes to increase prices for consumers. The bill puts the cart before the horse, asking for increased taxes before developing metrics to measure success.

Instead, lawmakers should study where existing alcohol tax revenue goes, how it is used and whether programs are effective. According to its own audit, the Oregon Health Authority does not identify the success rate of programs and was found inadequate in monitoring funds. Oregon is spending more on behavioral health than 75% of other states, according to health officials, yet ranks near last compared to other states in outcomes. This is not a money problem. Oregonians need to know what were buying and whether programs are producing outcomes.

Michelle Palacios, Christina LaRue and Danelle Romain

Palacios is executive director of the Oregon Hop Growers Association. LaRue is executive director of the Oregon Brewers Guild. Romain is executive director of the Oregon Beer and Wine Distributors Association.
With 15 Oregon counties moving back to extreme risk of COVID spread, the state will likely see jobless claims rise as restrictions on indoor activities return. Those newly out-of-work Oregonians will go back to the states clunky unemployment system that remains one of the slowest in the country

On the latest episode of Beat Check with The Oregonian, business reporter Mike Rogoway talks about the still ongoing woes at the states employment department. A year into the economic crisis, some workers are still stuck dealing with a system that has fundamental flaws that cant be fixed anytime soon.

We hit on that and much more.

Then, on the second half of the show, state politics reporter Hillary Borrud discusses Oregon landing a 6th congressional seat, the first expansion in 40 years.

Heres the full episode:

-- Andrew Theen; atheen@oregonian.com; 503-294-4026; @andrewtheen

Subscribe to Beat Check on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher or wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Photo provided/ Delta College

Delta College is partnering with the Bay County Health Department to host a drop-in COVID-19 vaccination clinic in May.

The drive-through clinic, which uses the Pfizer vaccine, will be open every Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. for all Michigan residents, 16 years and older. No registration is required to get the vaccine.



We are very pleased to partner with Delta College to be able to offer a COVID-19 vaccination clinic thats open to everyone in Michigan with no registration needed, said Bay Public Health Director Joel Strasz. I encourage all citizens to learn more about the importance of getting vaccinated, including the personal and community health benefits. The vaccine is how were going to put this pandemic behind us.
Suffolk Fire & Rescue personnel assessed the teen and he was taken to a local hospital with injuries that are not life-threatening, the release said.
As her high school band career nears a close, Morgan Glann is hopeful there will still be a chance to make up for a missed opportunity.

Because of the pandemic, the Meridian Early College High School jazz band couldn't give its annual performance at last September's Detroit Jazz Festival.

But this year might be different, said Glann, a Meridian senior.

"Hopefully, the Detroit Jazz Festival happens so we can be part of that," Glann said. "We were accepted to play there last year, but we couldnt go play. I definitely feel like I missed out on a lot last year."

In the big picture, though, Glann has made the most of her musical opportunities throughout her school years.

She has taken piano lessons for more than 10 years from the same teacher, Penny Vanderbush. And in high school, Glann has contributed her piano talent to the Meridian jazz band.

In fifth grade, she added a second instrument with the alto saxophone, which she has played in the Meridian marching and concert bands for the last four years.

Picking up the alto sax wasn't too daunting for Glann since she already had a few years of piano instruction behind her.

"I found that having that background in music already when I started the alto, was very helpful to me because I could already read music," she said.

"The only difference was that I was on a new instrument."

Glann, who was also part of Meridian's state champion equestrian team last fall, sees music as a big part of her life.

"Band has given me a really big outlet to express myself and find a passion for something, both through alto (saxophone) and through being in jazz band," she said.

The Meridian bands have also given her the opportunity to play at big venues in Grand Rapids and Chicago.

"Compared to anywhere else the band has been able to play, being able to play in DeVos Hall (in Grand Rapids) was an almost overwhelming experience, but very positive and I enjoyed playing there," Glann said.

All these experiences lead up to Glann's plan to continue pursuing music next fall at Central Michigan University.

She plans to double-major in secondary education and piano, with the goal of becoming a science teacher.

Glann figures that, even if she doesn't teach music, she can be a good resource if a music teacher needs help.

Meridian band director Matt Shephard said he has been grateful to have Glann in the ensembles for both her character and her talent.

When I think of patience and kindness, Morgan immediately comes to my mind. Her calming demeanor has provided a sense of control in moments of chaos. She leads with poise and humility," Shephard said.

"The incredible level of musicianship that comes from Morgan has been a joy to perform alongside for the last eight years. I will truly miss this talented young lady," he added.
 All the young professionals honored in the Daily News' 20 Under 40 listing.

 The Midland County man who won $2 million from the Michigan Lottery.

 Chase Mahabir, whose lacrosse maneuver on April 9 made the Lacrosse Top Five Plays on ESPN.

 Jefferson Middle School students, Kutchey's Flowers and the Islamic Center of Midland for providing free flowers and vegetables to flood victims.

 The H Hotel, which received the American Automobile Association's Four Diamond award for lodging for the ninth consecutive year.

 Coleman High School's drama program, which started up again after 21 years and will present "Drop Dead Juliet" on May 7 and 8.

 Peter Brooks on his retirement from his 48-year career with Family Life Radio.

 Chippewa Nature Center Executive Director Dennis Pilaske, who received the Central Michigan University Museum Studies Alumni Leadership Award.

 Kaylee Jackson, Jack Erickson, Olivia Carpenter and Al Money who were named Saginaw Valley League Scholar Athletes.

 Beaverton and Bullock Creek high schools, which are in the top 50 finalists for the national Vans Custom Culture art contest.

 Taste of Midland Restaurant, a Tex-Mex restaurant, which opened this past week.

 Mark Starks and Paul Ganus, who won international film awards for a series of public service announcements.

 Andy and Marge Kobisa, who celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary.
Conakry, Guinea (PANA) - Establishment of democracy in Guinea has favoured plural expression through multiparty politics, said the Minister of Communication of the World Press Freedom Day under the theme: Information as a public good
New York, US (PANA) - The United Nations Secretary-General has welcomed the decision by the Lower House of Somalias Federal Parliament to nullify a special law and to return to the 17 September 2020 Electoral Agreement that will allow for indirect presidential and parliamentary elections
The solar plants will be able to generate nearly 500 megawatts, which is enough to power 125,000 homes when the sun is shining. Dominion will own and operate three plants, and has formal agreements to buy power from another six. (Steve Helber/AP)
NORMAL  Stumbling, squeaking, fluffy chicks popped out of their eggs in classrooms across McLean County last week, some making their arrival a little later than others.

We were getting a little worried, said Cameo Williams, a third-grade teacher at Grove Elementary in Normal. When we hit the 21-day mark, everybodys like, wheres the chicks? Then ours went to the 24-day mark, so we were crossing our fingers.

Two little balls of fluff hatched from the dozen eggs provided to Williams' class as part of the Chick It Out program by the University of Illinois Extension and McLean County Ag in the Classroom.

The sounds of the persistent cheep cheep of newly hatched chicks was rivaled only by the fawning 8- and 9-year-olds taking turns holding the fluffy birds in the back of Williams classroom Monday morning.

Chloe Rodriguez, 9, said she liked learning about the parts of the eggs and how the chicks grow before they hatch.

I really liked how we got to hold them and I liked seeing them hatch out of the egg, she said.

Katie Buckley, 4-H youth development educator at the Illinois Extension, said the most important part of Chick it Out is giving students the opportunity to see the circle of life, to use the generic phrase.

It's just so incredibly gratifying for them to see the process, she said of the program that has been in McLean County classrooms for decades.

More than 100 educators participated in the program this year, bringing eggs to 33 schools, eight daycares and 24 home schools.

Buckley said she didnt have a hatch rate yet for the 120 dozen eggs, but so far shes heard positive feedback from teachers and I felt this year we had a really great hatch rate.

While the eggs are in the incubator, students spend the three weeks learning about embryology using curriculum provided by the university, and they use a candler to see inside the eggs.

Williams said the students had fun making predictions about when the eggs would hatch, but holding the chicks is always the best part.

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The eggs, they like looking inside and candling, but they want to actually see it come to life, she said.

Addison Tracey, 9, said she had never seen a chick hatch before.

When the chicks hatched, they really stumbled a lot and they couldnt really walk or do anything and sometimes they ran into the edge of the incubator, she said.

When students could hold them, 8-year-old Harrison Overberg said, They were furry, you could stroke them with your thumb and they were super-duper scared.

Even after the babies were more used to being handled, Overberg said they would try to jump away.

They kind of just wanted to escape and they didnt really want you to hold them, Tracey added. So they really just wanted to run around, and they werent really calm. They were kind of wild and just didnt want to be held.

Since the schools closed before the Chick It Out program last spring, fourth-grade classrooms were able to hatch eggs this year at Grove, too.

The kids were super bummed about it because its a highlight of third grade, Williams said. The teachers wanted to make sure the fourth-graders who missed out had the opportunity to experience it because its definitely one of our highlight moments, and its a way to bring agriculture into the classroom, too. It gives the kids firsthand experience.

Buckley said for many students, this is their only glimpse into the agriculture world.

Even though I would consider McLean County pretty rural, though we have urban areas, this is it for them to see this process, she said.

A few days after the eggs hatch, most of the chicks went to Above Normal Eggs, a local farm where students can schedule a visit to see them as they grow up, Williams said.

The rest went to other local farms that raise chickens so the birds remain in the area, Buckley said.

Contact Kelsey Watznauer at (309) 820-3254. Follow her on Twitter: @kwatznauer.

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NORMAL  Neither Illinois State University nor Illinois Wesleyan University have plans to require students to get vaccinated for COVID-19 before returning to school this fall, although they are strongly encouraging them to do so.

ISU spokesman Eric Jome said Monday any such mandate would come from the state level, most likely the Illinois Department of Public Health.

Heartland Community College also is waiting to hear more from IDPH and the Illinois Community College Board before requiring vaccinations, according to spokesman Steve Fast.

When Gov. J.B. Pritzker was asked about the possibility mandatory vaccines while on the Heartland Community College campus last week, he acknowledged thats something thats under some discussion around the nation but said, What we want right now is for people to raise their hands and say, I want to get vaccinated.

Not everyone thinks the voluntary approach is best.

During a public comment session Monday before the ISU board of trustees met in closed session as part of the presidential search committee, an ISU student urged the board to require coronavirus vaccinations.

Isabel Samuel, a masters student in theater and dance who is also a graduate teaching assistant, told the board, Mandating a COVID vaccine is the most effective strategy we have, especially as we try to reach herd immunity.

Samuel said, Its not just one tool in this fight, its our best tool and one I believe is critical to our safe return to campus.

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According to a list Monday in UniversityBusiness.com, a growing number of colleges and universities in 30 states plan to require vaccinations.

In Illinois, the list includes Columbia College Chicago, DePaul University, Loyola University Chicago and Roosevelt University  all private institutions.

Samuel noted that ISU already requires a number of vaccinations, such as ones for tetanus, mumps, measles, rubella and meningitis.

But Jome said, unlike those vaccines, the COVID-19 vaccines currently are being provided under an emergency use authorization from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

IWU also made that distinction, noting in a March 22 message to the campus, We highly encourage all students, faculty and staff to be vaccinated. We do not intend to require the COVID-19 vaccination while it is designated for emergency use.

Jome said that planning for fall is not complete but were still going to have testing capacity.

Likewise, Pritzker said, Weve provided mobile vaccination units in many of the colleges in Illinois and certainly were looking to partner with more.

Jome said ISU is watching the local vaccine rollout and state guidelines.

Were interested in moving back to a more traditional campus atmosphere, he said, which would mean more in-person classes, more in-person activities and increased capacity in on-campus housing.

Contact Lenore Sobota at (309) 820-3240. Follow her on Twitter: @Pg_Sobota

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DID YOU KNOW?

The Federal Trade Commission reports that from 2016 to 2020 the military and veteran community reported more than $420.5 million lost to online scams, a figure that was 44% higher than their civilian counterparts. One in four Americans is a victim of cybercrime, but only about 700,000 cybercrime fraud incidents were reported to the FTC Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) in 2020. Several veterans service organizations, federal agencies, corporations, and others have joined forces to educate military members, veterans and their families on how to avoid being duped by these scammers. A large group of tech companies have joined as partners of the Cybercrime Support Network. Visit the groups jointly-created website, FightCybercrime.org for information on how to avoid common scams and what to do if you think you have been scammed.

VA HELPS NARA FIGHT COVID-19

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The VA announced an agreement with the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA, formerly known as the National Personnel Records Center, NPRC, in St. Louis) to provide vaccinations to NARA workers. Due to restrictions associated with COVID-19, NARA (as reported in a recent Veterans Corner) has been operating at about 25% of its normal worker levels which has caused delays in acquiring military records (especially military medical records). This delays the proper and timely processing of VA claims for service-connected disability compensation and causes financial hardship and stress for the claimants. Additionally, NARA is taking several weeks to respond to requests for DD214s as compared to about 10 days to two weeks prior to COVID-19 restrictions. DD214 requests are most often associated with the requirement to submit the DD214 along with the VA Form 10-10EZ to apply for VA medical care, including receiving the COVID-19 vaccination. VA will provide medical staff and enrollment specialists to administer the vaccine. The vaccinations will be administered at an off-campus site.

VA MOTTO CHANGE?

The motto of the Veterans Administration, in use since 1959, quotes Abraham Lincolns second inaugural address in 1865: To care for him who shall have borne the battle and for his widow, and his orphan. A bipartisan group of federal lawmakers is again moving to change the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) motto to be more inclusive toward women and LGBTQ troops after the same effort failed during the Trump Administration. The bill, if it became law, would change the VA motto to read: To fulfill President Lincolns promise to care for those who shall have borne the battle; and for their families, caregivers, and survivors.

TO DRAFT OR NOT TO DRAFT

The issue of the Draft (more properly designated as conscription into military service) has recently centered around whether females should be subject to the draft or continue the rules that only require 18-year-old males to register for the draft. Failure of 18-year-old males to register for the draft make that male ineligible for federal education scholarships and grants. The original court ruling in 1981 excluded women from the draft based on the fact that women were not allowed in certain combat-related jobs in the military. Women have been allowed to serve in any and all military jobs since the Obama administration. The new approach to the draft issue appears to be a move to eliminate the draft altogether. Over 2.8 million men were drafted to serve during World War I, 10.1 million drafted during World War II, 1.5 million men drafted during the Korean War and 1.85 million men drafted during the Vietnam War.

Vogler is superintendent of the McLean County Veterans Assistance Commission.

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What was supposed to be a jubilant rite of passage was replaced by grief and tragedy in Indiana on Saturday.

Two high school students died in a car crash on their way to the prom, Hamilton County sheriff's spokesperson Ryan McClain said.

The crash happened around 5:15 p.m. in Arcadia, about 40 miles north of Indianapolis. When officers arrived, both students were found deceased.

The Hamilton Heights School Corporation identified them as Hamilton Heights High School senior Kalen Hart and her prom date, Lendon Byram.

Byram was a student at Cathedral High School, the Indianapolis private school said.

Two other students were in the car with Hart and Byram but suffered non-life threatening injuries.

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The driver of another vehicle involved in the crash was also a high school student but declined medical attention, McClain said.

The cause of the crash is under investigation. There were no immediate signs that drugs or alcohol were involved, McClain said.

All Hamilton Heights prom activities were canceled due to the news.

"It is with deep sadness and a heavy heart that we have been informed that two students involved in this accident died from their injuries," HHSC posted on Facebook Saturday evening. "At this time all scheduled prom activities will be canceled."

Grief counselors and support staff are available Sunday for students and their staff, the HHSC said. The school corporation also provided information from the National Child Traumatic Stress Network.

Cathedral High School also had counselors available for grieving students.

"Grief is personal and everyone experiences and processes loss and trauma differently," the HHSC said. "This is an unimaginable loss for these families and our school community."

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Paris, TN (38242)

Today

Rain showers early with scattered thunderstorms arriving for the afternoon. High around 80F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 60%. Locally heavy rainfall possible..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms early, then variable clouds overnight with more showers at times. Low near 70F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%.
On Friday (30 April), the European Commission announced that it took issue with the mandatory use of Apples own in-app purchase mechanism imposed on third-party music streaming app developers to distribute their products.

If found guilty, Apple could face a fine of up to 10 percent of its annual revenue  roughly $27 billion, based on its $274.5 billion earnings in 2020.

European Competition Commissioner Margrethe Vestager said in a statement: "Our preliminary finding is that Apple is a gatekeeper to users of iPhones and iPads via the App Store. With Apple Music, Apple also competes with music streaming providers. By setting strict rules on the App store that disadvantage competing music streaming services, Apple deprives users of cheaper music streaming choices and distorts competition. This is done by charging high commission fees on each transaction in the App store for rivals and by forbidding them from informing their customers of alternative subscription options."

Yet the accusation by the EU commission is false. Apple told TechCrunch the following in a formal statement:

"Spotify has become the largest music subscription service in the world, and were proud for the role we played in that. Spotify does not pay Apple any commission on over 99% of their subscribers, and only pays a 15% commission on those remaining subscribers that they acquired through the App Store. At the core of this case is Spotifys demand they should be able to advertise alternative deals on their iOS app, a practice that no store in the world allows. Once again, they want all the benefits of the App Store but dont think they should have to pay anything for that. The Commissions argument on Spotifys behalf is the opposite of fair competition."

When peppered with questions from the press about Spotify's leadership in the music streaming market, Vestager tried to veer away from defending Spotify's complaint. Vestager stated that "There are other rivals to Apple Music  there are Deezer, there are Soundcloud. Smaller competitors and here we have real concerns about their developments," she said, adding: "This is not a Spotify case  this is a music streaming case." Like Pinocchio, Vestager's nose grew when making that statement.

Vestager went further by adding that "If you are a rival to Apple Music you cannot send your subscribers an email telling them to go to your website to subscribe at a price without the commission fee," she emphasized.

Is there any brick and mortar store on the planet where they allow a company in their store to promote that their product could be cheaper if purchased directly? This is an insane standard that the EU is proposing. It's anti-business. Rivals want to use the App Store in order to tell customers to please bypass the App Store. The EU Commission's position here is Foolish and clearly illustrating that they're primarily siding with European companies at Apple's expense.

Their constant lie of Apple charging 30% on all or most transaction is to anger the public is a clear falsehood. In the past, brick and mortar stores would charge companies hefty fees for shelf space that were remained high every year, unlike the App Store. Protecting companies that don't want to pay Apple a commission is not a fair position.

To be clear, this is exactly what the Commission stated in their second press release: "First, there is the mandatory use of Apple's own in-app purchase system to buy digital content. Here, Apple charges a 30% commission fee for all purchases through its system." This is a purposely orchestrated falsehood.

The EU's second press release last Friday stated: "Our second concern is about the so-called 'anti-steering provisions.' They limit the ability of app developers to inform iPhone or iPad users of alternative, cheaper subscriptions available elsewhere." Once again, this is yet another insane position that the EU is taking a stand on, one that defies the history of retail stores charging a fee for products on their shelves.

The EU is clearly declaring war on Apple in this second press release. It's squarely aimed at destroying the App Store. Though to be fair, this is a trend. A recent U.S. Senate Hearings on the App Store stood on the very same lies about Apple blanketly charging 30% on all transactions and siding with "anti-steering provisions." Their ignorance on this matter is blinding any rational judgement. The Senate was basically echoing what the EU's positions have been for some time. In the end, whatever Apple's competiton stated was a verified fact, while every reply from Apple was a straight out lie.

Will fairness be applied in either the EU Commission and U.S. Senate's final judgements? The writing is on the wall: Don't count on it. For more on this, read the full EU Commission's second press release here.
Seasoned journalist, Kwesi Pratt says Ghana's power sector will be in debt of 24 billion dollars in 2024.



According to him, the indebtedness of the power sector is a major cause of the power cuts in the country.



He made this revelation during a panel discussion on Peace FM's ''Kokrokoo''.



GRIDCo annouced to Ghanaians that some areas of the country, particularly in the Greater Accra and Ashanti Regions, will experience erratic power supply in the months ahead.



The energy provider says this is due to some maintenance works it is undertaking on some lines.



Kwesi Pratt expressed worry over the impact of the power outages on businesses.



''Those of us who you force to use generator to power our business, it increases our electricity cost sometimes by ten times. So, it is not the name that's important to us. To call it dumsor or not, it's insignificant to us. We need electricity for the nation's development. If we want lights to work for the nation to develop, the CPP is not in power, GCPP is not in power, NDC isn't in power; it's the NPP that's in power. It's the NPP that has the authority to make a change'', he said.



He disclosed that, if the problem persists, the nation may have to brace herself for something worse futuristically.



He told host Nana Yaw Kesseh that he had an interview with the Chief Executive of the Africa Centre for Energy Policy, Benjamin Boakye who told him that the power cuts ''is about indebtedness. He told me that the debt at the power sector is overwhelming. He said, if we're not lucky, by 2024, the debt will reach 24 billion dollars. That's part of the problem. That's why we're experiencing dumsor. He stated that clearly; that the level of indebtedness is part of the problem''.





Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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Madam Margaret Kaba, Ayawaso West Municipal Director of Education says government alone can not provide access to quality education for all Ghanaians.



She added that the state needed to partner with the private sector to complement its efforts to achieve better quality education for the people.



Madam Kaba said this at the inaugural ceremony of The New School' at Abelenkpe in the Ayawaso West Municipality 9f the Greater Accra Region.



According to her, there was no better investment that individuals, parents and the nation could make than an investment in education of the highest possible quality.



Madam Kaba said the Curriculum of the School which included not only a local dimension but also an international perspective and above all, vitality and vision to make the Institution one of the best in the country would help build the pupils to be abreast of international and local trends of development.



Madam Kaba said she was glad the New School was coming to provide quality education to children and the youth in the Municipality.



She said Ghana Education Service (GES) was ready to assist the School to become one of the best centre of academic excellence in the Municipality.

Source: GNA









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He called for the videos to be released right away. A judge ruled last week that the family could see the videos, but that they would not be released to the public for at least 30 days while the shooting is investigated.
Mr George Boakye, the Ahafo Regional Minister, has appealed to governments of South Africa and Denmark to connect the Ahafo Region to investors to push socio-economic growth and development of the area.



He said Ahafo had huge economic potentials which could be tap and harness to benefit the Region and the two countries.



Mr Boayke made the appeal when he paid a courtesy calls on Mrs Grace Jeanet Mason, the South African High Commissioner, and Mr Tom Norring, the Danish Ambassador to Ghana in Accra.



According to a statement copied to the Ghana News Agency (GNA), the meetings were of part of efforts to promote investment opportunities and establish bilateral relations between Ahafo, the High Commission and the Danish Embassy.



The meetings, the statement added, further highlighted on new economic cooperation, and specifically strengthened relationship between Mr Norring, who was part of the European Union (EU) 2020 Election observers deployed to the Ahafo.



On her part, Mrs Mason said South Africa cherished her longstanding relationship with Ghana and assured that the High Commission would continue to strengthen its educational partnership for the benefit of the two countries.

The South Africas commitment towards the human resource development of Ghana through easy access to the educational institutions in South Africa remains unwavering, she said



Mrs Mason added, the High Commission would do her best to link the region to the South African Investment Promotion Agencies.



Mr Norring who also acknowledged the strong bilateral ties between Ghana and Denmark gave the assurance that the Danish Government would continue to work to enhance the existing strong cooperation with Ghana for mutual benefit.

Source: GNA









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The Office of Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, Member of Parliament (MP) for Klottey Korle has organise a horse-riding demonstration on the Oxford Street of Osu to create a friendly relationship between the police and the community.



The exercise, which was a project of the MP, was held in partnership with the Mounted Squadron of the Ghana Police Service and the Oxford Street Business Owners Association.



The programme took place simultaneously in three places namely Oxford Street, Independence Square Beach and the Police Barracks and afforded some community members, especially the youth to ride on a horse for the first time.



Dr Agyeman-Rawlings in an interview with the Ghana News Agency said there had been negative sentiment between the police and the community in some sense hence the decision to bridge the gap between them through the initiation of the horse riding.



She said the Mounted Squadron of the Ghana Police Service was located at Osu with 27 horses and aside from providing ceremonial services it was important the Unit was made accessible and affordable to the public to become a win-win situation.



This would make the children of the community learn how to ride horses and people would come and pay, which would help the police to generate their own income. It is a project I believe would improve relations between the police and the community and would improve tourism in the area.



Dr Agyeman-Rawlings said the initiative would be made sustainable through a public-private partnership with the Oxford Business Owners Association and the involvement of the community.

Source: GNA









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The Former Director of Ghana Health Service (GHS), Professor Agyeman Badu Akosa, has urged Ghanaians to have regular medical check-ups to ascertain their health status.



According to him, diseases detected early were easy and less expensive to treat.



Prof. Akosa gave the advice at Tarkwa when the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT) in collaboration with the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG), UMaT branch, and Gold Fields Ghana Limited celebrated this year's World Health Day.



It was on the theme "Silent killers: A public health challenge.



Touching on hypertension, he said in Ghana one out of two males above 40 years was hypertensive.



"In 1950 between 1-2 percent of Ghanaian adults were hypertensive, but currently the records are between 35 and 50 percent," he said.



Prof. Akosa pointed out that this was one of the greatest epidemics that the country seemingly did nothing about.



He said diabetes, which used to be 0.2 percent was currently hovering around 8-10 percent.



The Former Director of GHS emphasized that the worse of all was the increase in cancers and kidney diseases.



Prof. Akosa said with "cancers occurring early in women, Ghanaians have allowed other people to dictate what beauty means to the African".



He stressed that "if you do not have straight hair; you are not beautiful so everybody is using hair relaxers and straighteners, all these are endocrine distributors that creates fibroids and early cancers.



"All these diseases are preventable, if we are knowledgeable about what to do, eat, sleep for at least eight hours, drink enough water and exercising, then we would be creating a system that checks a lot of these diseases," Prof. Akosa added.







Source: GNA









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The Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, says contrary to pessimistic views that the introduction of the Free Senior High School would compromise quality education, data from WASSCE result released by the West African Examinations Council proves otherwise.



Speaking at the closing session of the National Chief Imam's annual Ramadan lectures (Tafsir) in Accra, Dr. Bawumia spoke about where government's commitment to promoting quality education, indicating that the remarkable record of the first batch of beneficiaries of Free SHS among four West African countries, proved that government has not compromised quality education.



"When the Akufo-Addo government introduced the Free SHS policy, some people opposed it and said quality education would be compromised. But the 2020 West Africa Senior High School Examination shows that if anything, the free senior high school has improved the quality of education in Ghana."



"The WAEC with countries like Sierra Leone, Gambia, Nigeria, Ghana; the results show that of the total number of students who took the exam, there was a total number of 465 who got A in all their 8 subjects. Of the 465 in all these countries, 411 came from Ghana. The other 54 came from Nigeria but Nigerian students were 70% of all the students who took the exams but Ghana got 411 8As and they (Nigeria) got 54 8As."



"That tells you the quality that we have produced. We should not underestimate what we are capable of and we should not underestimate what we are capable of."



"Free SHS is helping our students and of course helping our parents as well because they dont have to pay."



Dr. Bawumia urged all, particularly members of the Zongo community and other deprived communities to seize the equal opportunity and access to education the Akufo-Addo government has provided.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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Aerial spraying of woodlands against impending outbreaks of the gypsy moth has begun across Pennsylvania.

A total of 203,569 acres at 146 sites will be sprayed through an effort led by the Bureau of Forestry in the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

Those sites will include 9 state forests, 9 state parks, 25 state game lands and sections of the Allegheny National Forest in 19 counties.

As the insects emerge and begin feeding, the suppression effort will begin in early May, said Cindy Adams Dunn, DCNR secretary. Our recent cool, wet springs had emerged as an enemy of the gypsy moth in years past, but populations have climbed in some areas to a point where aerial spraying is needed to keep this invasive pest in check and protect the trees from defoliation.

DCNR Forest Health Manager Donald Eggen explained, In Pennsylvania, these destructive, invasive insects go through cycles where outbreaks occur every five to 10 years. Populations had declined in years past thanks to the gypsy moth fungus disease and wet spring weather but that no longer is the case for 2021.

The gypsy moth suppression program is conducted with the goal of preventing defoliation so that trees do not become stressed and succumb to disease, other insect pests or drought. Aerial spraying will be conducted by helicopter and fixed-wing aircraft.

Targeted sites are determined by surveys of egg masses and other indicators across the state indicating gypsy moth populations are increasing and have the potential to cause major defoliation.

Feeding while in the larval -- or caterpillar -- stage, the insect usually hatches and begins eating from mid- to late April in southern Pennsylvania, and in early to mid-May in the northern part of the state. Oak, apple, sweet gum, basswood, birch, aspen, and willow trees are affected the most by the gypsy moth.

Bureau of Forestry experts note the states oak stands are especially vulnerable to gypsy moth infestation, often resulting in tree mortality. The loss of habitat, timber, and tree growth are considerable when gypsy moth populations go untreated. A tree begins to significantly suffer when 30 percent or more of its leaf surface is lost.

Biological in nature, the applied insecticides must be ingested by young caterpillars as they feed on emerging foliage.

Begun in 1972, the forest insect spray program is a cooperative effort among DCNR and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Services Forest Health Protection Unit.

The gypsy moth was introduced to North America in 1869 at Medford, Massachusetts., where it was used in a failed silk-production experiment. The gypsy moth first reached Pennsylvania in Luzerne County in 1932, and since then has infested every county.

State parks to be sprayed will include Black Moshannon, Centre County; Blue Knob, Bedford County; Chapman, Warren County; Colton Point, Tioga County; Hyner View, Clinton County; Kinzua Bridge, Warren County; Leonard Harrison, Tioga County; Little Pine, Lycoming County; and Prince Gallitzin, Cambria County.

State game lands to be sprayed include: SGL 14 in Cameron County, 1,978 acres; SGL 26, in Blair and Bedford counties, 2,811 acres; SGL 33/60 in Centre County, 4,713 acres; SGL 34 in Elk and Clearfield counties, 1,744 acres; SGL 37 in Tioga County, 413 acres; SGL 42, in Westmoreland County, 2,472 acres; SGL 64 in Potter County, 691 acres; SGL 73, in Bedford County, 2,256 acres; SGL 75 in Lycoming County, 1,537 acres; SGL 87 in Clearfield County, 964 acres; SGL 89 in Clinton County, 1,885 acres; SGL 92 in Centre County, 149 acres; SGL 100 in Centre County, 6,614 acres; SGL 103, Centre County, 2,045 acres; SGL 108, in Cambria and Blair counties, 4,463 acres; SGL 120, in Cambria and Clearfield counties, 1,551 acres; SGL 158 in Cambria County, 3,059 acres; SGL 166, in Blair County, 4,922 acres; SGL 198, in Blair County, 1,416 acres; SGL 208 in Tioga County, 727 acres; SGL 278, in Blair County, 912 acres; SGL 295 in Clinton County, 1,785 acres; SGL 321 in Clinton County, 715 acres; and SGL 323 in Centre County, 426 acres.

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Firefighters from Lancaster County rescued an osprey whose wing had become entangled in some fishing line.

The fishing line was reportedly hanging off of the Norman Wood Bridge, causing the bird to dangle off of the structure until it was finally freed.

ABC 27 News reports how the Rawlinsville Fire Department received a call notifying them of the situation on Wednesday. The rescue team that was dispatched discovered the osprey trapped by the line, leaving it to hang from the 175-foot bridge.

One of the firefighters, Rich Furman, proceeded to rappel down to the bird and managed to set it free. However, despite initially flying away the bird abruptly fell to the river, causing the rescue team to retrieve it from below.

Fortunately, the bird was saved and rushed to the Raven Ridge Wildlife Center where it was treated for injuries.

Luckily, the fishing line was only wrapped around the feathers, stated Tracie Young, an employee of the wildlife center. So we were able to cut that loose, do a full exam, there was no injury done to the wing, we administered fluids, pain medicine, because of the swelling and hanging that long.

Commonly referred to as sea hawks, Pennsylvanias current nesting osprey population is estimated by the state Game Commission to be the largest its been since Europeans colonized the region. The species was listed as extirpated in 1979, and there was only one known nesting pair in the entire state in 1986.

The rescued osprey is on its way towards a full recovery. Young also advises people to always remove fishing lines from their surroundings once theyre done fishing due to the potential danger it may present to other animals.
SAN DIEGO  Three people were killed and more than two dozen others were hospitalized Sunday after a boat capsized and broke apart in rough water just off the San Diego coast during a suspected human smuggling operation, authorities said.

Lifeguards, the U.S. Coast Guard and other agencies responded around 10 a.m. following reports of an overturned vessel in the waves near the rugged peninsula of Point Loma, according to the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department.

The original call was for a handful of people overboard but as rescuers arrived in boats and jet skis they quickly realized it was going to be a bigger situation with more people, said San Diego Lifeguard Services Lt. Rick Romero.

There are people in the water, drowning, getting sucked out the rip current there, he said.

Seven people were pulled from the waves, including three who drowned, said Romero. One person was rescued from a cliff and 22 others managed to make it to shore on their own, he said.

Once we arrived on scene, the boat had basically been broken apart, Romero said. Conditions were pretty rough: 5 to 6 feet of surf, windy, cold.

A total of 27 people were transported to hospitals with a wide variety of injuries including hypothermia, Romero said. Most of the victims were able to walk themselves to ambulances, he said.

Officials said the group was overcrowded on a 40-foot cabin cruiser that is larger than the typical open-top wooden panga-style boats often used by smugglers to bring people illegally into the U.S. from Mexico.

Every indication from our perspective was this was a smuggling vessel. We havent confirmed their nationality, said Jeff Stephenson, a supervising agent with U.S. Border Patrol.

Agents were at hospitals preparing to interview survivors, including the boats captain who Stephenson described as a suspected smuggler. Smugglers typically face federal charges and those being smuggled are usually deported.

Officials said smugglers sometimes use larger more conventional boats to try and blend in with regular maritime traffic.

San Diego Fire-Rescue Department spokesman Jose Ysea said when he arrived on scene near the Cabrillo National Monument there was a large debris field of splintered wood and other items in the choppy waters.

In that area of Point Loma its very rocky. Its likely the waves just kept pounding the boat, breaking it apart, he said.

There were life preservers on board, but it wasnt known how many or whether any passengers were wearing them, officials said.

Wreckage and debris from a capsized boat washes ashore at Cabrillo National Monument near where a boat capsized just off the San Diego coast Sunday, May 2, 2021, in San Diego. Authorities say two people were killed and nearly two dozen others were hospitalized after the boat capsized. (AP Photo/Denis Poroy)AP

Among the rescuers was an unnamed Navy sailor who was in the area with his family and jumped in the water to assist someone in an effort described by Romero as a huge help.

Officials believed everyone on board was accounted for right away, but crews in boats and aircraft continued to search the area for several hours for other possible survivors, Ysea said.

On Thursday, border officials intercepted a panga-type vessel traveling without navigation lights 11 miles (18 kilometers) off the coast of Point Loma with 21 people on board. The crew took all 15 men and six women into custody. Agents determined all were Mexican citizens with no legal status to enter the U.S., according to a statement released by Customs and Border Protection. Two of the people on the boat, the suspected smugglers, will face charges, it said.

Border Patrol on Friday said law enforcement officials would be ramping up operations to disrupt maritime smuggling off the coast of San Diego this weekend.

As warmer weather comes to San Diego, there is a misperception that it will make illegal crossings safer or easier, the agency said in a statement.

In early March, an SUV packed with migrants collided with a tractor-trailer in the farming community of Holtville, California, about 125 miles (200 kilometers) east of San Diego. The crash killed 13 of 25 people inside 1997 Ford Expedition, including the driver, in one of the deadliest border-related crashes in U.S. history.

___

Elliot Spagat and Christopher Weber of The Associated Press wrote this story.

Weber reported from Los Angeles.
This article is part of a year-long reporting project focused on redistricting and gerrymandering in Pennsylvania. Its made possible by the support of Spotlight PA members and Votebeat, a project focused on election integrity and voting access.

Story by Marie Albiges of Spotlight PA

HARRISBURG  When Amanda Holt was preparing to vote in 2010, she noticed something odd about the congressional districts within her county.

One small voting precinct of about 2,000 people in Lehigh County was in a different U.S. House district than the rest of the countys precincts, and she couldnt understand why.

As her curiosity grew, she noticed other oddities  a township randomly carved out of a congressional district, counties that could have fit into entire state Senate districts but were instead split between several  that she thought didnt follow the constitutional rules for redistricting, the once-in-a-decade process of redrawing political maps.

I thought maybe they werent aware the other way is possible that would allow them to avoid all the oddities, all the divisions I was seeing, she said.

Using a simple Excel spreadsheet and census population data, Holt, a piano teacher and data research contractor, found she could create much more compact, contiguous, and equal-sized districts that didnt split nearly as many localities  all of which the state constitution required.

So why couldnt the most powerful leaders in the state legislature do it?

You dont really know why, because they dont explain why they are departing from these traditional redistricting principles, she said. So its just left up to the imagination.

State politicians who draw congressional districts, as well as their own, every 10 years leave a lot to the imagination, especially when they dont have to tell you why a majority-Latino neighborhood is mysteriously carved out of an otherwise compact district, or why a college campus is split between three districts.

In reality, whichever party is in control of the process can draw districts to ensure or grow its majority and set government agendas for years.

Gerrymandering  when a maps district boundaries are manipulated to benefit one political party over another  is often used to describe any number of abuses that occur in redistricting. A wonky-looking district can be thought of as gerrymandered, as can a district that splits communities without explanation.

It can be difficult to prove, legally. Theres no one standard to determine whether a map has been gerrymandered, and mapmakers rarely admit to doing it.

But it has been possible to demonstrate in a handful of states, including Pennsylvania, where the state Supreme Court in 2018 found Republicans in charge maximized the number of congressional seats for their party while disadvantaging Democrats. Members of that party won just five of the 18 seats with the Republican-drawn map, despite winning slightly more than half of the statewide vote.

We showed that the features of the map could not be explained by anything other than partisan manipulation, said Ben Geffen, an attorney with the Public Interest Law Center who worked on the case.

Pennsylvanias state House and Senate maps, which were drawn by Republicans and approved by the state Supreme Court in 2012, havent faced the same partisan scrutiny. Still, experts say some of the same computer-based techniques used in the 2018 legal case show the maps skew toward Republicans, and it is unlikely that happened organically.

When lawmakers go back to the drawing board later this year to make Pennsylvanias new maps, experts and analysts will apply these same tests to evaluate whether there are any partisan asymmetries that cant be explained by chance.

Efficiency gap

If the goal of partisan gerrymandering is for one party to do everything possible to secure as many seats as it can, the way to do that is by packing and cracking districts. Packing crams voters of the rival party into a few districts to give that party overwhelming wins. Cracking spreads members of the rival party across a large number of districts so their votes dont matter as much.

A concept called the efficiency gap, developed by Harvard Law professor Nick Stephanopoulos and political scientist Eric McGhee, measures the extent that districts have been cracked or packed by looking at the number of collective wasted votes in each district.

Any vote that is above what a candidate needs to win is an extra, or wasted, vote. Likewise, any vote for the candidate who ends up losing is also considered wasted.

The efficiency gap takes the difference between the parties respective wasted votes and divides that by the total number of votes cast.

It captures, in a single tidy number, all of the packing and cracking decisions that go into a district plan, Stephanopoulos and McGhee wrote in a 2014 working paper.

In all Pennsylvania House and Senate districts that were drawn in 2012, Democrats had between 1.1 million and 1.2 million more wasted votes than Republicans. The more wasted votes a party has, the more likely that party is to have been disadvantaged.

U.S. Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts has called the efficiency gap sociological gobbledygook, a phrase embraced by The Republican State Leadership Committee. The national organization, which works to elect GOP candidates at the state level, claims Republicans win more seats than the total vote share because they have stronger candidates and policies that appeal to voters.

While the efficiency gap has been used in legal arguments where federal courts, including in North Carolina and Wisconsin, have struck down maps, the U.S. Supreme Court has sidestepped questions about what standards, if any, should be used to determine partisan gerrymandering.

Lopsided wins

Another way to measure the extent of cracking and packing is to test whether one partys wins are more lopsided than the other. In a scenario in which the two parties vote shares are similar, both parties win seats by comparable margins overall, said Ari Goldbloom-Helzner, computational research analyst with The Princeton Gerrymandering Project. Picture a mix of strongly partisan, generally reliable, and swing districts.

But in a gerrymandered plan, one party easily wins by large margins, suggesting that its winning districts that are packed with its own voters, while the other party wins more districts by smaller margins. If lopsided districts are unlikely to occur by chance alone  unique geography, candidate preference, and some natural randomness aside  that may indicate there was intentional gerrymandering.

In 2018, Republicans running for state Senate won their districts with an average of 64.4% of the vote, while Democrats won their districts with an average of 69.9% of the vote.

The Princeton Gerrymandering Project used a well-known statistics tool called the t-test and found the chance that this 5% difference would have arisen by nonpartisan processes alone is almost zero.

Amanda Holt served on Gov. Tom Wolf's Redistricting Reform Commission, which sought input from residents across the state on how future legislative districts should be drawn.

Partisan bias

Partisan bias asks how different the parties respective seat shares would be if Democrats and Republicans each hypothetically received 50% of the statewide vote. It looks at whether each party is winning its fair share of seats, or if one party is more easily and unfairly winning extra seats.

If Democrats and Republicans in the state Senate each got the same total number of votes across the 50 districts, Republicans would win 9.1% extra seats, showing the plan is skewed to favor Republicans. The same goes for state House districts, which would give Republicans an extra 8.2% seats in a hypothetically tied race.

Mean-median bias

This test looks at the gap between a partys median vote share across all districts and its average vote share. When a partys median vote share is much higher than its mean vote share, the map is skewed in favor of that party.

The median Republican vote share for the state House map is 6.8% higher than its mean vote share. In the state Senate map, Republicans median vote share is 3.4% higher than the mean Republican vote share.

Unintentional gerrymandering

None of the tests can be used alone to indicate gerrymandering, Goldbloom-Helzner said.

The underlying assumption is that both sides are treated similarly, he said. The tests are really saying, Are the two sides being treated similarly or can we show that they are being treated significantly different from one another?

While scholars and redistricting experts who rely on these tests have found, in most instances, the party in control of redistricting has a partisan advantage in the maps, its not the only factor influencing the political outcome.

A concept known as unintentional gerrymandering, or self-sorting, argues that substantial bias can also be found in a map because like-minded people naturally cluster in certain areas.

Two professors, Jowei Chen and Jonathan Rodden, found the highest levels of map bias against Democrats occurred in states where the partys voters were concentrated in urban areas. Republicans are typically spread out over rural areas and suburbs, so less of their votes are wasted and the party wins districts by narrower margins.

The academics also found across states generally, the average Republican voter is more likely to live in a mixed neighborhood with more voters from both major political parties, while the average Democratic voter is more likely to live in a Democratic-leaning neighborhood.

This natural self-sorting concept has been used by attorneys to defend maps perceived as gerrymandered. They argue that because Democrats are clustered in cities, Republican mapmakers cannot be held responsible for large gaps between the percentage of overall votes won and the percentage of seats won. They claim political geography can fully explain the underrepresentation of Democrats in a legislature.

Next steps

The redistricting process is now underway in Harrisburg.

This year, Republican leadership will draw a new congressional map for Pennsylvania, which will lose one of its 18 districts because of sluggish population growth. But unlike a decade ago, their map will need the approval of a Democrat: Gov. Tom Wolf. A veto from Wolf could send the map to the Democratic-led state Supreme Court, which ruled repeatedly against the GOP in election- and pandemic-related cases last year.

The justices will also pick the chair of the Legislative Reapportionment Commission  which draws the state House and Senate maps  after its members deadlocked on someone to serve as the likely tie-breaker vote.

Holt  who served on Wolfs Redistricting Reform Commission after challenging the states 2011 House and Senate maps in court  said shes again paying attention to whether the mapmakers are held accountable through measurable standards, especially when it comes to minimizing the number of communities that are divided.

The places in which they live need to stay together so they can have the strongest voice possible for the next 10 years, she said.

WHILE YOURE HERE... If you learned something from this story, pay it forward and become a member of Spotlight PA so someone else can in the future at spotlightpa.org/donate. Spotlight PA is funded by foundations and readers like you who are committed to accountability journalism that gets results.
The following central Pennsylvania police departments all say they ban chokeholds, except in situations where the use of deadly force is called for. Some say the ban has been in place for 20 years or more.

Heres a look at what else these agencies said theyre doing to respond to calls for racial justice and police reform:
Members of the Select Committee on Matters Relating to the Timber Industry in the Limestone Coast visited Kangaroo Island to hear about issues facing KPT and other growers in accessing markets on the mainland.

The State Parliament committee and KPT team members inspect logs at Gosse West.

( ) last week welcomed to the Island members of the South Australian Parliaments Select Committee on Matters Relating to the Timber Industry in the Limestone Coast.

The committee members visited Kangaroo Island to hear about issues facing KPT and other growers in accessing markets on the mainland.

Committee chair The Honourable Clare Scriven and members Hon Russell Wortley and Hon Frank Pangallo toured with KIPTs managing director Keith Lamb and executive director Shauna Black.

KPT directors Keith Lamb and Shauna Black with committee chair Hon Clare Scriven (centre).

Facilities inspected

The group inspected harvesting at Gosse West, water storage at Macgills, independently owned softwood at Westmore Park, the proposed export facility site at Smith Bay and the Kingscote wharf.

Members of the committee also engaged with other KIPT team members and executives visiting from Morgan Sawmill, based in Jamestown.

The committee then took evidence in Kingscote and canvassed a wide range of issues, including:
Two people were stabbed in Philadelphia, a 25-year-old man was arrested and while investigating, police say they found the body of the mans grandmother inside the home.

The incident, which included a brief standoff with the 25-year-old, occurred Saturday night on the 1000 block of E. Chelten Ave. in the citys East Germantown neighborhood, NBC 10 is reporting.

When police got to the scene, they found a 20-year-old man outside of the home who said his 25-year-old brother, who was still inside, had stabbed him, Action News 6 ABC is reporting.

The 20-year-old was taken to the hospital, where he was listed in stable condition.

Once inside the home, police found another 20-year-old man with multiple stab wounds to the chest, reports indicate. He was rushed to the hospital in extremely critical condition.

Police found the 25-year-old holding a knife, standing in a stairwell, reports indicate. After unsuccessfully trying to subdue him, police briefly declared a barricade situation, according to reports.

As police tried to negotiate with the 25-year-old, they saw him pouring a liquid, possibly kerosine, on the third floor of the home, but they were able to talk him into surrendering, reports indicate.

As police investigated, they found the 25-year-olds grandmother dead inside the home. There were no physical signs of trauma, and her cause of death has not yet been determined, according to reports.

Names have not yet been released, and the case remains under investigation.
Pfizer Inc. will ship 4.5 million doses of its COVID-19 vaccines to South Africa by June helping the nation ramp up its inoculation drive.

The first 325,260 doses will arrive Sunday night, Zweli Mkhize, South Africas health minister said in a statement. The government also expects Johnson & Johnson to release stock from the Aspen Pharmacare Holdings Ltd.s plant in the nation by the middle of May following a verification process with regulators, according to the statement. Aspen is making the J&J vaccines under license.

South Africa, which is the worst-affected country by the coronavirus pandemic on the continent, lags behind emerging market peers in vaccinations. It halted J&J vaccines after health agencies last month called for their suspension in the U.S. The J&J shot is a key element to the nations vaccination plan and has already been used to inoculate health workers, with no reported adverse effects.

The government last month awarded tenders to state-backed Biologicals Vaccines Institute of Southern Africa Ltd. and Imperial Logistics Ltd. to import an unspecified quantity of doses, the Department of Health said in a document on its website. DSV Healthcare Ltd. was contracted to store and distribute the doses countrywide.

The government ordered 30 million of the two-dose vaccine developed by Pfizer and BioNTech SE, which in addition to the J&J shots should be sufficient to inoculate more than two thirds of the nations 60 million population to achieve herd immunity.

___

Antony Sguazzin of Bloomberg News wrote this story.

For more articles like this, please visit us at bloomberg.com

2021 Bloomberg L.P.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC
Two state laws have been passed recently in response to calls for police reforms.

One measure requires police agencies to do thorough background checks of any new hires through a statewide database that holds information on disciplinary actions and separation records of all police officers in the state.
Lisa Lilick and Carol Smith struggled to get fellow Conshohocken residents to pay attention to their campaign opposing the sale of the boroughs sewer system. Who wants to think about boring wastewater when theres a pandemic going on?

Then Carol, she did the little thing with a toilet, said Lilick.

The little thing was a simple image that Smith dug up on a Google search, a cartoon commode with a worried expression and the palm of its hand held up. No to sewer sale, the cartoon toilet intoned. Bad for residents, seniors, fixed income.

Lilick said her online posts about sewer rates suddenly found an audience. A Facebook page was launched, local bloggers took note, a petition was organized, and yard signs went up. Scores of angry residents tuned in to borough Zoom meetings, worried that their elected officials were trying to pull a fast one.

The campaign worked. The Conshohocken council voted abruptly on March 17 to walk away from a $52 million offer for the sewer system, which council had been quietly exploring for two years. Afterward, Council President Colleen Leonard scolded residents to become a little more involved instead of waiting until youre in a panic mode and really dont have all the facts you need to really decide something.

If what we have here is failure to communicate, Conshohocken is not alone.

Grassroots campaigns have emerged in several towns around Philadelphia opposing sales of municipal water and wastewater systems, energized by distrustful residents who fear their towns are trading a one-time cash windfall for perpetual higher sewer rates under private owners.

In Norristown, the seat of Montgomery County just up the Schuylkill from Conshohocken, a citizen opposition group organized after the municipal council voted in June to sell its sewer system for $82 million.

The group, Norristown Opposes Privatization Efforts, or NOPE, gathered more than 2,000 signatures that would have forced a repeal referendum on the ballot. The buyer, Aqua Pennsylvania, walked away in December.

I think the average resident felt they were getting the wool pulled over their eyes, said Councilman Hakim Jones, one of two council members who voted against the sale. He said the NOPE activists did more education on the matter in a small period of time than we were able to do as a municipality in a full year and a half.

NOPEs success inspired it to broaden its horizons. Renamed Neighbors Opposing Privatization Efforts, NOPE helped organize the Conshohockencampaign, and is now advising residents in Towamencin, a Montgomery County township that is studying a potential sewer sale, said David McMahon, a founder. Its also advising a citizens group in Carteret County, N.C., which in February agreed to sell its system to Aqua.

McMahon said local officials considering a sewer system sale may comply with laws requiring such transactions to be advertised, but they often couch the deal in language not understood by the public, and downplay the negative long-term rate impact. Residents in an area dont know whats happening until its over basically, said McMahon, a scenery builder for films and television.

Anti-privatization advocacy groups, such as Food and Water Watch, which assists local activist groups, say that public opposition to utility sales is not unusual, or new.

Weve seen this in Democratic cities, or rural conservative towns, said Mary Grant, the director of Food and Water Watchs campaign against water privatizations. Its pretty common when these companies are aggressively trying to take over the water system or sewer system that people react negatively.

Officials from Aqua, the second-largest private water and wastewater operator in the state after Pennsylvania American Water, said the number of towns where organized opposition has developed has increased only in proportion to the growing number of acquisitions underway.

What youre seeing is the volume of municipal transactions has really started to gallop, said Chris Franklin, chief executive of Essential Utilities, the Bryn Mawr parent company of Aqua. In many towns where Aqua is active, he said there is no opposition to a sale. In others, he said, people are saying their piece and in some cases, its more active than others.

What prompted this?

The frenzy of acquisitions in Pennsylvania is driven by a 2016 state law that encourages the consolidation of smaller water and wastewater systems under private ownership. The law, called Act 12, allows investor-owned utilities to pay an appraised fair-market value for an acquired system, rather than its lower depreciated cost or book value, and then to recoup the costs through higher rates.

Fair-value laws, enacted in about a dozen states, have triggered a land rush by private buyers to pay top dollar for systems. Some acquisitive public authorities have also increased their offering prices to compete with private companies  Conshohockens preferred bidder was the Bucks County Water and Sewer Authority, which has acquired systems in Montgomery and Chester Counties. Under either public or private ownership, the higher price is passed on to customers through higher rates.

New Jersey also approved a fair-value law, but bidders are only allowed to recoup the higher market value they pay for municipal systems that can show they are in financial distress, so there are fewer acquisitions. In Pennsylvania, there is no such restriction.

Officials from five states told the U.S. General Accountability Office that one potential disadvantage of fair-market value laws is their potential to increase a utilitys rates, according to a GAO report released Monday.

Five studies examined by the GAO found that average water rates charged by private for-profit utilities are about $15 to $21 higher per month than the rates charged by public water utilities. Private utilities have an incentive to generate a return for investors, the GAO said, while public utilities may need to respond to political pressures to keep rates low for all residents.

Every municipality has a different reason for approving or rejecting a privatization, and different circumstances  they may require significant infrastructure investments that would be better managed by a larger private entity, or already have high rates. Some towns just want to get out of the sewer business and focus on core public services.

Some places have really bad sewer systems that are becoming very expensive to fix and they dont have the revenue to fix them, said Chris Manero, president of Plymouth Township Council in Montgomery County. And some places have seen the chance to get a lot of cash.

Plymouth Township explored a sale in 2019 but opted out after holding four town-hall meetings because projected increases were too high, said Manero. The township will find some other way to pay for $15 million in needed renovations to municipal buildings, he said.

But having gone through the exercise of examining and rejecting a sale two years ago, Plymouth officials were worried this year when neighboring Conshohocken was considering selling its system. Conshohocken treats sewage from part of Plymouth, which would have realized higher rates if Conshohocken sold its system, while reaping none of the benefits.

Plymouth Townships anxiety over the sale of a neighboring towns system highlights another challenge of privatization that potentially pits town vs. town: Municipal sewer systems are often interconnected with neighboring towns since sewer mains mostly flow downhill. One towns decision to sell may impact customers in another municipality.

York sale protested

Such is the case in York, where Pennsylvania American Water, a subsidiary of Camden-based American Water Works Co. Inc., last month announced it will buy the York City Sewer Authority for $235 million. The sale will bail out the financially distressed city. But several surrounding towns whose customers pay York to treat their sewage will see higher rates. Those towns say they are examining their legal options.

Pennsylvania American also has signed agreements with Valley Township in Chester County and Royersford borough and Upper Pottsgrove Township in Montgomery County.

Aqua has six acquisitions underway, at a cost of $438 million, the largest of which is a contentious $276 million acquisition of Delaware Countys sewer system, DELCORA. That deal is tied up in court, but Franklin, the Aqua CEO, talks about it as though a successful conclusion is inevitable.

Based on the approximate rate base of $438 million, these signed agreements are expected to generate about $22 million of incremental annual income when theyre fully earning, and these are great examples of our acquisition strategy at work, Franklin told investment analysts in February during an Essential Utilities quarterly earnings teleconference.

Franklin lives in Willistown Township, an affluent Chester County community around Malvern that agreed in January to sell its sewer system for $17.5 million to Aqua. The Willistown sale pits the towns sewer customers vs. homeowners with septic systems.

Sewer customers, who paid for the Willistown system with past fees and make up about half of the townships residences, say they will now face higher rates under Aqua ownership. For them, its a question of equity  half of the town will pay more after the transaction, but the whole town, including septic customers, will benefit from the proceeds of the sale.

Basically, public officials love to get their hands on free money, right? said Henry Yordan, a sewer customer who helped organize an opposition group, Concerned Willistown Sewer Customers. They have all this free money, and they didnt have to go to the whole town to say, Hey, were increasing your tax for all these wonderful things were doing.

Franklins view is that Willistown is having an internal disagreement about how to deploy the sale proceeds  sewer customers say the net earnings from the sale should be used to lower sewer rates, or get refunded to sewer customers. After a series of online town-hall meetings, Willistowns leadership appears to be leaning toward apportioning at least some of the proceeds to rate relief. (Franklin is a Willistown sewer customer, but obviously he supports the sale.)

Another large transaction involving Aqua Pennsylvania is its uninvited $320 million takeover bid of the Chester Water Authority (CWA), a public water system headquartered in Chester city but whose customers are mostly in suburban Delaware and Chester Counties. The sale would bail out financially distressed Chester city, which created the authority, at the expense of suburban water customers who would pay more.

Towns need the money

The Chester Water Authority countered with a proposed $60 million takeover that would bail out the City of Chester and thwart Aquas bid. Aqua has sued, and the transaction is tied up in court.

In response to public outcry, two state legislators from suburban CWA counties, State Reps. John A. Lawrence (R., Chester) and Christina D. Sappey (D., Chester), have introduced bills that would require the sale of public water systems to get voter approval.

Innocent people living on fixed incomes in my district shouldnt pay for the fact that the City of Chester needs to be bailed out, said Sappey, who reintroduced her Water Payers Bill of Rights this year after it failed to get any traction last year. Weve got to find another solution to that problem.

In Conshohocken, the exploration of a sewer sale was initiated two years ago as part of a review of borough assets. Like many towns, the borough has a long list of needs  police, streets, aging municipal buildings, storm-water management  and limited sources of funds. A sewer system sale presented an opportunity to pay for all of the boroughs $28 million wish list in one transaction.

In February, the borough council approved an ordinance transferring the sewer assets from the Borough of Conshohocken Authority, which oversees the sewer system, to the borough itself. Opponents interpreted that as a signal that the council was moving to sell.

The borough was not transparent, said Carol Smith, a pharmaceutical-industry retiree who serves on the Borough of Conshohocken Authority and the creator of the cartoon toilet that became the mascot of the opposition.

We were told things were going to take months, they were just doing an inquiry, but the goalposts kept shifting, Smith said. We thought, We gotta alert people to this. "

Borough Manager Stephanie Cecco said the borough council was not being sneaky, but careful and deliberate about considering differing views.

Theres a group of people that have a loud voice and an initiative that they want to accomplish, but thats not the only dynamic that were dealing with, said Cecco. Theres a whole other part of the population of Conshohocken that doesnt understand why you turned down $52 million.

Conshohocken will now consider other ways to finance needed improvements. One option is to get sewer users to pay higher fees and to take over the costs of managing and upgrading Conshohockens storm sewers, now paid out of the boroughs budget.

Cecco said theres no hard feelings  its a small borough, and residents are neighborly. For elected officials, the exercise of getting bids for the sewer system was also useful, she said.

It gives them options.

Now they have data in hand on the value of one of its major assets, Cecco said, which they could use in the future if they need it.

___

Andrew Maykuth of The Philadelphia Inquirer wrote this story.

(c)2021 The Philadelphia Inquirer

Visit The Philadelphia Inquirer at www.inquirer.com

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Attention Harrisburg residents.

Do you have a question youd like to ask the five candidates seeking the Democratic nomination for mayor? Heres your chance.

PennLive and CBS 21 News are collaborating on Candidates Conversation with the five candidates that will be taped Wednesday afternoon and streamed on both outlets digital platforms at 7 p.m. that evening. It will be available to be viewed through Election Day, May 18.

Weve got some questions for the panel, but we also want to be sure that were covering whats important to you, the community. So if you have anything on your mind that might help you or your neighbors come to a conclusion about who to vote for, please send it along by Tuesday morning to newstips@pennlive.com

The five Democratic primary candidates are:
A hospital transfer van unloads a COVID-19 patient at a mobile health unit at Sunnybrook Hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic in Toronto on Friday, April 30, 2021. Ontario is reporting 3,436 new cases of COVID-19 today and 16 more deaths attributed to the novel coronavirus. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Nathan Denette
North Central Michigan College has been honored by the Arbor Day Foundation with 2020 Tree Campus Higher Education designation for its commitment to effective forest management and conservation. It is one of only two Michigan community colleges to receive the distinction.
Tiettos strong cash position of around $52 million at the end of the March quarter has allowed it to advance the Abujar Gold Project development activities.

Discussions continue to advance with project financiers following the release of a positive PFS.

( ) has awarded the engineering design work contract for the processing plant at Abujar Gold Project in Cote dIvoire to Primero Group, a Perth-based specialist mine design company.

Primero will provide all process and engineering design as well as procurement oversight, field engineering and commissioning service required for the delivery of a functional, reliable and efficient process treatment plant.

Solid step forward

Managing director Dr Caigen Wang said the company had achieved "very good progress" across several fronts as the company advanced the Abujar Project to be West Africas next gold mine.

He said: The award of engineering design of the processing plant for the Abujar Gold Mine with a DFS in progress is strong evidence of the companys firm commitment to building this modern and large gold mine in West Africa.

Together with our opportunistically secured unused SAG mill with significant saving on costs from our PFS capex estimate as well as removing mill procurement from the critical path, this engineering design award makes a solid step forward in the path of Abujar Gold Mine development.

Early site works, such as construction of the site access road, are part of our strategy to fast-track development of the Abujar mine, as the road will allow all-weather access to the project site and mining operations.

Tietto also recently started work on the construction of a 22-kilometre site access road linking the national highway, which runs through the Abujar mining exploitation tenement to the proposed processing plant.

As of last week, 6 kilometres of the overall 22-kilometre road had been cleared and grubbed.

June work program planned

Tietto has the following activities planned for June:
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North Charleston-based Ingevity Corp. is looking to gain a foothold in the fast-growing renewable natural gas business by partnering with a Charleston startup that converts harmful methane gas from agricultural and other sources into clean energy.

The deal with GreenGas USA is part of the chemical maker's plan to add new ventures that focus on human health and renewable natural gas, a plan it calls Ingevity 2.0. Part of that effort is Ingevity's work to create absorbed natural gas technology for light-duty vehicle fleets.

"Our partnership with GreenGas is a significant step in advancing Ingevity 2.0 as we work together with GreenGas to broaden the reach of RNG as a cleaner alternative energy and fuel solution," Erik Ripple, Ingevity's chief growth and innovation officer, told analysts during a conference call last week.

Ingevity did not announce a dollar figure for its investment but said it amounts to less than a 50 percent ownership of GreenGas. Marc Fetten, founder of GreenGas, will remain the company's CEO.

John Fortson, Ingevity's president and CEO, told analysts during the conference call that he expects GreenGas to post revenues of between $50 million and $60 million within the next four or five years.

Initially, Ingevitys funding will help GreenGas expand its biogas capture and cleanup systems at hog and dairy farms, landfills and wastewater treatment plants.

GreenGas also recently signed an agreement with Carolina Gas Transmission to supply renewable natural gas to wholesale and direct industrial customers through an interstate pipeline hub in Georgetown.

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Ingevity also plans to use renewable natural gas produced by GreenGas to give its fleet customers "broader access to the greenhouse gas reduction benefits of RNG when used as a transportation fuel," Ripple said.

"Ingevity stood out as the perfect strategic partner as we continue to provide customers with a growing variety of decarbonization and waste-to-value solutions," Fetten said in a statement. "Ingevitys strong commitment to executing strategies that create measurable environmental impacts will serve as a strong foundation for our partnership."

Among Ingevity's offerings are products containing activated carbon that are used to reduce gasoline vapor emissions.

Ripple told analysts that Ingevity "recognized an opportunity to apply our activated carbon expertise to the purification, transport and bulk storage of natural gas," adding the companies will introduce a program to deploy the first use of an activated carbon bulk storage tank to demonstrate the system's capability.

Ingevity is headquartered near the WestRock Co. paper mill, where it was incubated decades ago as a division of the former MeadWestvaco Corp. to develop chemicals from sawdust and other tree waste. Ingevity became an independent publicly traded company in 2015 and has about 1,750 employees in 25 locations worldwide.

GreenGas formed in 2019 by Fetten, the former president of Cooper River Partners, which owns the Charleston International Manufacturing Center in Goose Creek.
PXS-5505 will enter pre-clinical efficacy testing for glioblastoma, the most common form of brain cancer with an average survival of only 15 months from diagnosis.

( ) (FRA:UUD) drug discovery PXS-5505 will be the focus of a new study funded by a grant from the Charlie Teo Foundation, an Australian charity, for key research into a drug discovery tackling an aggressive and deadly form of brain cancer.

The drug, PXS-5505, which has commenced a phase 1/2a clinical trial for the rare bone marrow cancer myelofibrosis, will now enter pre-clinical efficacy testing for glioblastoma (GBM), the most common form of brain cancer with an average survival of only 15 months from diagnosis.

A$186,837 research grant

Charlie Teo Foundation has awarded a A$186,837 research grant to Y Alan Wang, PhD, associate professor of Cancer Biology at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center to enable the study of PXS-5505.

Pharmaxis CEO Gary Phillips said: We are delighted the Charlie Teo Foundation has awarded this grant to enable study of PXS-5505, aiming to fight this devastating form of brain cancer which is in desperate need of treatment options.

"I lost my own father to glioblastoma, so this project is close to my heart.

"We sincerely thank the Charlie Teo Foundation for recognising the potential for PXS-5505 and taking this last step to validate effectiveness."

Potent inhibitor

Lysyl oxidase enzymes play a crucial role in GBM because they attract inflammatory cells that accelerate tumour growth and reduce survival.

PXS-5505 is a potent inhibitor of lysyl oxidases and should stop these processes.

Pharmaxis drug has demonstrated a good safety profile in healthy volunteer clinical studies in Australia.

Previous research has already shown the importance of lysyl oxidases to tumour growth in GBM, and the current research will seek to validate the effectiveness of the Pharmaxis drug in brain cancer models.

Phillips said: The study will run over one year and if successful can lead to clinical trials in 2022.

This new project accesses external funds and expertise to extend the potential uses of PXS-5505 which is already entering efficacy trials in myelofibrosis, a rare form of bone marrow cancer, which is currently enrolling patients in a phase 1c/2 clinical trial.

Worldwide, its estimated there are more than 300,000 cases of brain and nervous system tumours each year with GBM being the most common form (Lancet Neurol 2019).

Out of the box thinking

Charlie Teo Foundation founder and director Professor Charlie Teo said: As a neurosurgeon what I see most from my patients is shock and disbelief that there are no treatment options available to them.

There is only one first-line chemotherapy and radiation therapy and these treatments only extend life by a matter of months. My brain cancer patients do not accept this fate, and neither do I.

Charlie Teo Foundation is bringing together teams who we consider to be the best brains around the globe, combining the necessary expertise with groundbreaking technology and out of the box thinking.

Together, we believe we can improve treatment options for people with brain cancer.

Funding brain cancer research

Charlie Teo Foundation is an Australian charity dedicated to funding brain cancer research.

Brain cancer kills more children in Australia than any other disease and more young people under 40 than any other cancer.

The charity was officially launched by Professor Charlie Teo in March 2018, on the premise of running a low-cost charity and funding research differently.

To date, Charlie Teo Foundation has raised more than $14 million for brain cancer research.
One of the few remaining Sears-branded stores in South Carolina is changing locations to make way for a new retailer.

Sears Hometown Store at 1013 Old U.S. Highway 52 in Moncks Corner is expected to close in about three or so weeks. It will move to an 8,450-square-foot former CVS space in a Food Lion-anchored shopping center at 1316 Red Bank Road in Goose Creek.

Harbor Freight Tools will be backfilling the current Sears site.

The California-based tool and equipment retailer plans to make interior and exterior alterations, including changing the storefront and adding new offices, restrooms, a break room, vestibule, sales floor, receiving area and loading dock, according to site plans.

Opening dates have not been announced for either Sears Hometown or Harbor Freight Tools.

The small-format Sears has four other locations in South Carolina  in Georgetown, Walterboro, Lake City and Greenwood. The tool retailer has another Charleston-area store on Dorchester Road in North Charleston and several other locations across the state.

Dollars and cents

A new discount store soon will open in Ladson.

Dollar Tree is nearly finished stocking the shelves of a new 11,000-square-foot shop in the renovated College Park Center at 113 College Park Road. It's expected to open by this weekend if not earlier, according to workers at the store.

The site once housed discount retailer Freds before it went bankrupt and closed all of its stores in 2019.

Prior to that, many years ago Piggly Wiggly was located at the property near the corner of U.S. Highway 78 before it moved across the street.

What's brewing?

A West Ashley brewery is adding a second location in the Charleston area.

Frothy Beard Brewing Co. at 1401 Sam Rittenberg Blvd. in Ashley Landing Shopping Center has acquired Hometown Brewhouse at 117 S. Main St. in Summerville and will convert it to a Frothy site by mid-June, the brewery announced April 27.

Hometown Brewhouse will continue to operate until the conversion takes place.

The new location will be called Frothy Beard Off World, offering food and drinks. It plans to be open for lunch Friday through Sunday, serve dinner seven nights a week and offer a special Sunday brunch menu.

The new location also will be used to create special small-batch beers in rotation with all the flagship Frothy beer offerings.

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Riding in

A new electric bike shop is now open in the Charleston area.

Pedego Electric Bikes opened April 23 at 628 Coleman Blvd. in Mount Pleasant.

"With access to the beach, hiking and biking trails, our Mount Pleasant storefront couldnt be in a better location," owner Rob Crabtree said.

Based in the Los Angeles area, the company was founded in 2008 and now has more than 140 locally owned stores in the U.S.

Revving up

Auto parts retailer AutoZone is planning another new store in the Lowcountry.

The Memphis-based company wants to build a new shop on U.S. Highway 52, or 3940 State Road, in St. Stephen in northern Berkeley County.

Separately, the auto-parts chain recently leased an 8,000-square-foot space in the Food Lion-anchored St. George Plaza on U.S. Highway 78 near Interstate 95 in St. George in western Dorchester County.

It also is opening a store in the former Pier 1 Imports location at 7643 Rivers Ave., for its fifth location in North Charleston.

Springing back

Ruke's roadside stand of fruits and vegetables is returning to Mount Pleasant for its seasonal run. The market, operated by Arthur Brown, will be open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Saturday starting May 10 on the grounds of Holy Trinity AME Church at 378 Mathis Ferry Road.

New moon

A North Charleston-based lifestyle brand retailer continues to expand and is now in six Southern states.

Palmetto Moon will open a new store in Riverchase Galleria May 1 in the Birmingham, Ala., suburb of Hoover.

The company currently operates 27 locations throughout the Southeast in South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, Florida and Tennessee. The Hoover location will bring the count to 28. Two more stores are planned to open in 2021.

Additionally, the company has named Eric Holzer as chairman and John Thomas as CEO and chief merchandising officer. Holzer previously was CEO.
The last show at The Royal American before COVID-19 shuttered the Morrison Drive music venue was March 13, 2020.

John Bias, Orange Doors and Super City played to a typical crowd of late-night rum punch sippers on the small but much-used stage to the left of the bar. Bartenders swung the dangling orange lights above the bar to signal clapping, dancers spun around and spilled out onto the front patio. All was as it should be.

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Days later, the city of Charleston ordered businesses to close as the pandemic swept across South Carolina.

Though the neighborhood bar and restaurant has been serving up food and drinks to a limited capacity crowd for much of the COVID-19 era, a year and two months later, The Royal American is finally ready to put on shows once again.

The first will be May 14 and feature a performance by indie rock bands Daddy's Beemer, Nordista Freeze and Reverend Bro Diddley and The Hips. Tickets will be $10 at the door, and the show starts at 9 p.m.

Justin Osborne of Susto, along with Rose Hotel and Jordan Igoe, will then return to the venue's stage on June 10. Tickets go on sale online at 10 a.m. May 4.

This will be the tour kickoff for Osborne's solo acoustic set, and advance $30 tickets will be on sale online at https://bit.ly/337DoVr, unlike past Royal shows that have only allowed paying cash at the door.

Co-owner John Kenney said he was waiting until people had the chance to get vaccinated before booking live shows again.

As of April 28, more than 1.2 million South Carolinians had completed their COVID-19 vaccinations, or more than 30 percent of adults.

Kenney said he has received his second dose.

"We haven't exceeded more than 50 percent occupancy since the pandemic started, even though at this point most of the regulations have been lifted," Kenney said. "We are going to ease back into a few shows over the next couple of months, slowly and safely."

The Charleston Pour House has put on seated deck shows since last May but just recently opened its interior doors for late-night performances to a limited capacity.

The Tin Roof has hosted occasional shows on the patio and inside since last summer, requiring concertgoers to wear masks.

Purple Buffalo hosted seated outdoor shows last year and then expanded back to limited capacity standing-room indoor shows.

The Charleston Music Hall pivoted to an outdoor concert series to host larger, spaced-out crowds. The Hall has also opened its doors to a limited capacity, socially distanced audience.

This will be Royal's first foray whatsoever into live music, other than a livestream fundraiser event, since March 2020.

The first show announcements come after Gov. Henry McMaster said it was time for things to "start getting back to normal," calling for an end to government-mandated mask wearing and other COVID-19 restrictions across the state.

That didn't factor into Royal's decision to reopen its doors for live music.

There will be a limited capacity, temperature checks and masks required for entry at the upcoming shows.
COLUMBIA  Sanaa Amenhotep was a friend to those who werent friendly to her.

Her name means work of art, a bright light and she exhibited that with a bold style  over-the-top fashion choices, shiny lip gloss and long lashes  those who knew her said.

During a memorial service May 3 at Leevys Funeral Home chapel, Sanaa was remembered as an advanced child who learned to walk and read at an early age growing up in New Jersey and someone unafraid to speak her mind.

She was a huge personality with a heart of gold, said Gwen Baker, with Revealing Word Ministries. She was a social butterfly who wasn't afraid to challenge injustice.

Sanaa was found shot to death in Lexington County on April 28, weeks after she had been reported missing from her northeast Columbia home April 5 after she left in a car with others and didn't return. Authorities believe she died the same day she left home.

Treveon Nelson, 18 of Cayce, and two minors have been charged with murder, kidnapping and related charges in the girl's death, the Lexington County Sheriff's Department said. The agency didn't release the name of the minors  a male and female  because they are younger than 18.

Nelson was arrested April 30 and is being held without bond at Lexington County Detention Center. He also faces charges from the Springdale Police Department of criminal sexual conduct, kidnapping and felony assault related to a separate April 25 incident, a Lexington County sheriff's release said. Both of the minors are in custody, the agency said.

Lexington County Sheriff Jay Koon called the case "a complex and multilayered investigation" involving multiple jurisdictions.

The suspects knew Sanaa and they all know each other, Koon said in the release. Were glad we have all three of them in custody and charged after a lot of interviews, an extensive search and invaluable help from other agencies.

The agency said Sanaa was lured from her home April 5 and held in a stolen car before she was shot in a field off of Rish Road in Leesville the same night. Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott said Sanaa probably went willingly at first but that she was ultimately held against her will.

Nelson was also arrested in March and charged by Cayce police with misdemeanor domestic violence and by West Columbia police with unlawfully carrying a handgun, Lexington County court records show. He was freed on his own recognizance on both charges March 24, according to court records.

A memorial service for Sanaa was planned at Doko Meadows Park in Blythewood on May 3 but moved to the funeral home and was streamed live on Facebook because of severe weather.

Sanaas mother, Saleemah Graham-Fleming, said during the service that she would push for a state law requiring police to do more at the urging of parents in missing children cases.

She implored children to listen to their parents about the company they keep, for parents not to be afraid to be involved as they need to be in their childrens lives. And she took on the Richland County community.

We have to do better; we have to stop showing up for people when its too late, Graham-Fleming said.

Yasha Jones Becton, a pastor at Revealing Word Ministries who gave the eulogy, called for a task force that could focus on mentoring youth and understanding law enforcement policies related to missing children.

Lets not go through this summer having to bury more children, Becton said.
The Post and Courier Food section since August has been checking in weekly with four downtown Charleston restaurants coping with the coronavirus pandemic and recovering from restrictions designed to contain it. The following three restaurants are still finding their way back to normalcy. For previous installments of the series, as well as more information about the featured restaurants and their chosen strategies for success, click here.

Harold's Cabin: Come and get it

With the rush for $28.6 billion in Restaurant Revitalization Fund grants that were set to start April 26 at noon, its somewhat counterintuitive that business owners would have urged fellow restaurateurs to join them at the front.

After all, experts anticipated all of the federal money would be spent before the end of the three-week priority period reserved for restaurants owned by women, veterans and members of socially disadvantaged groups. There had been talk among restaurant industry insiders that the pot could be emptied by April 27.

We expect that Day One numbers will be through the roof, a National Restaurant Association spokesman said in a statement before the money was released.

But draining the fund quickly is a priority for Harolds Cabin owner John Schumacher and other members of the Independent Restaurant Coalition. They hope to send a clear message to Congress, Schumacher said: Replenish the fund.

To fully cover the losses incurred by restaurants shut down by government orders, the Independent Restaurant Coalition estimates the fund would need another $100 billion.

And so Schumacher last week spent time spreading the word. He and Butcher & Bee owner Michael Shemtov participated in a roundtable designed to motivate restaurant owners across the Carolinas to apply for their share as soon as they possibly can.

That could mean stationing multiple representatives of a restaurant on different computers to make sure their application process isnt hindered by a slow-loading site or other technical hang-ups, as Chasing Sage owner Cindy Edward said shed considered doing. It stands to be a frenzied week.

Between pep talks, Schumacher was readying his own application.

Chasing Sage: Such little time

Prior to COVID, Chasing Sages latest challenge would have sounded like something devised for a second-rate game show: Prepare a new restaurant for opening, but operate a takeout noodle counter at the same time!

We have to get all this done between making noodles, owner Forrest Brunton said of the restaurants ever-growing task list.

After more than a year of being trapped in the limbo of uncertainty and watching time creep by at a painfully slow pace, Chasing Sage owners are now hoping they get to every item on their punch list before opening day.

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The bar needs more coupe glasses.

The bathroom needs a few decorative touches.

The loquats that general manager Maxfield Clarke and his parents collected for one of the drinks on Chasing Sages list need to be pitted and marinated in liquor.

So long as the infusion is started soon, it should be ready for guests. And with owner Cindy Edward devoting every spare moment to browsing Etsy and local antique shops, the glassware collection is edging toward completion.

But Brunton and owner Walter Edward still need to clear their personal items and projects out of the kitchen, which is about to become a shared space. Bruntons knives have long sat atop the station which will serve as the garde manger.

Also on the packing list is Bruntons big, big stockpot. A 100-quart monstrosity that could double as a bathtub for a decent-sized pioneer family, the pot is a relic of the French dip food truck that Brunton ran in Seattle.

It wasnt ever supposed to come to the Chasing Sage kitchen, but Brunton and Edward ended up using it almost every day for ramen production.

They wont be using it much longer.

Like Schumacher, Shemtov last week was looking forward to the opening of the Small Business Administrations application portal. But he was also looking back.

It was April 9, 2020, that I was on a phone call with about 220 members of Congress that (U.S. Rep. Jim) Clyburn had invited me to join. It was me and a guy from Orlando who owned nightclubs, Shemtov said, remembering he brought up the idea of a dedicated fund for restaurant recovery.

(U.S. Rep. Nancy) Pelosi said thats an interesting idea, he continued. She said We want to hear all about it.

Now, much to Shemtovs satisfaction, everybody is hearing about it. He was deluged last week by mass e-mails from banks, point-of-sale system companies and accounting firms encouraging their contacts to apply for Restaurant Revitalization Fund grants.

Its amazing to have gotten here, he said, recalling that many restaurant owners at the outset viewed the feds as potential adversaries in the battle to restore their businesses.

Last week, when Shemtov; Katie Button of Asheville, N.C.; and Ashley Christensen of Raleigh, got together to speak about the importance of the funding program, a Small Business Administration representative sat alongside them.
Charleston Mayor John Tecklenburg said many of the city's coronavirus-related ordinances will expire May 12 and he foresees further modifications will be put in place.

At a news conference May 3 with the Medical University of South Carolina, Tecklenburg said the city will continue to recommend mask wearing for people who haven't been vaccinated and encourage folks to follow guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

"Frankly, I will predict it will become more on a recommended basis rather than a required basis," Tecklenburg said.

City Council will meet again May 11.

MUSC President Dr. David Cole said about half of Charleston's population has received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. He said the current immunity among city denizens, including those vaccinated and those within three months of having an infection, is in the 60 percent to 65 percent range.

And while infection rate numbers have been dropping, COVID-19 is still significant in a much smaller population of people, Cole said.

On May 3, only 56 new confirmed coronavirus cases were reported in the tri-county area.

"So if you're not vaccinated, you are the high-risk group," Cole said.

Statewide numbers

New cases reported: 398 confirmed, 124 probable.

Total cases in S.C.: 483,317 confirmed, 97,477 probable.

Percent positive: 4.3 percent.

New deaths reported: 4 confirmed, 0 probable.

Total deaths in S.C.: 8,383 confirmed, 1,141 probable.

Percent of ICU beds filled: 68 percent.

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How S.C. ranks

South Carolina ranks 41st in the nation regarding the number of vaccines administered per 100,000 people as of April 29, according to the CDC.

Hardest-hit areas

Greenville County (56), Richland County (43) and York County (45) saw the highest totals of newly confirmed cases.

What about tri-county?

Charleston County had 30 new cases on May 3, while Berkeley had 15 and Dorchester 11.

Deaths

Three of the new confirmed deaths reported were patients 35 to 64, and one was a patient age 65 and older.

Hospitalizations

Of the 409 COVID-19 patients hospitalized as of May 3, 105 were in the ICU and 55 were using ventilators.

What do experts say?

Cole said MUSC now has more COVID-19 vaccines than a demand for them. Both public messaging and getting people to talk to those they trust are equally important in overcoming vaccine hesitancy.

"So the more momentum we can get at the ground level, I think the quicker we're going to reach out goals," Cole said.

Each day the virus lives in the community, variants have the chance to emerge and adapt.

"Each new variant creates the possibility of a disease emerging that's even worse than the one we know," Cole said.

The final hurdle between Charleston residents and a return to normalcy is achieving herd immunity in the community and state, Tecklenburg said.
Summerville, SC (29483)

Today

Scattered thunderstorms during the morning. Cloudy skies this afternoon. High around 85F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms developing late. Low 72F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%.
CAINHOY  In an effort to protect and preserve two adjacent graveyards, one White and one Black, residents in this fast-changing part of Charleston are hoping the developer of a new subdivision will make last-minute changes to its approved build-out plans.

Oak Bluff Development LLC is proceeding apace with Phase 1C of the Oak Bluff neighborhood, though it will do so judiciously, according to Charleston City Councilwoman Marie Delcioppo, who joined a meeting with the developer the morning of April 30.

Several of the homes that are part of Phase 1C likely would be constructed on land where an old African American burial ground is located. Several gravesites could be impacted by home and road construction, according to surveys conducted by The Gullah Society.

The Black burial ground is located just outside the fence delineating McDowell cemetery. Dozens of below-ground anomalies detected by ground-penetrating radar suggest there could be around 40 graves on this bluff, according to Grant Mishoe, a historical researcher for The Gullah Society.

While the graves inside the defined White cemetery are part of a property now deeded to the Cainhoy Methodist Church and Cemetery Old Ruins Corp., the Black graves are located on private property that belongs to Crescent Homes.

The dirt access road leading from Clements Ferry Road to the graveyard is identified in the cemetery property deed as under easement, but its status was not known by the developer before permits were secured and the site design completed.

Complicating matters is the possibility that some African American graves also might be located very near the dirt road and by the current entrance to the White cemetery, where the road terminates.

Delcioppo said the meeting was amicable and informative.

I think there are opportunities for productive conversations moving forward that can allow this area to be enhanced even further, and really showcased to be a point of pride in the community, she said.

Should the developer encounter human remains or other significant historical objects during the clearing, grading, road paving and construction process, it will need to notify the Department of Health and Environmental Control and push the pause button, she said.

On April 28, a subcontractor was on site clearing trees and foliage as Mishoe, Fred Lincoln and MaeRe Skinner watched with concern.

Lincoln, an African American community leader, said he just wants a pause.

All we are asking is to take a look at the property to see if there are graves there so they dont have to proceed with caution,  he said. Either well find something or not. It would be bad for them, even if they did proceed with caution and hit something.

Lincoln added that if the developer insists on forging ahead without first allowing additional archaeological work, the community will seek to have observers on site to make sure they dont cover up anything.

Oak Bluff Development LLC, a subsidiary of Crescent Homes, carefully followed permitting guidelines spelled out by the city of Charleston and HHS in pursuing the Oak Bluff project, wrote Bob Pickard, vice president, land development, in an April 6 email. He repeated the statement in a May 3 email after The Post and Courier sought comment regarding the recent meeting.

The permitting process took over three years and included an extensive archeological study of the site, Pickard wrote. This study was incorporated into the site design to ensure there were no adverse impacts to sensitive areas, including burial sites. The plans were reviewed and approved by multiple agencies, and their relevant departments, including the State Historical Preservation Office.

Oak Bluff resident Megan Flowers said on April 30 that a petition in support of Lincoln and Skinner circulated among homeowners the day before and quickly filled up with 35 signatures. Oak Bluff has 50 homes as part of the first development phases.

Flowers, with help from her daughter, rushed to produce the petition in time for the April 30 meeting involving Pickard, Delcioppo, Rep. Mark Smith, Chris Stout of DHEC and Charlestons Zoning Director Lee Batchelder.

Skinner, Lincoln and Mishoe all expressed frustration that they were not included in the meeting.

All of a sudden its all out of our hands and theres nothing for us to do? Skinner said. Were supposed to back off, then? But I cannot back off because its too important.

The city of Charleston cannot require the developer to modify its plans or conduct additional surveys. But city officials are asking the developer to consider such actions, and asking DHEC to intervene.

Mayor John Tecklenburg sent a letter to DHEC on April 15 expressing his concerns.

It has become increasingly clear to me that the development in question poses a direct threat to an unmarked African American burial ground located near the McDowell Cemetery site," he wrote. As these unmarked graves will likely be disrupted as a result of the excavation and grading planned for Phase 1C of the pending development, I am urging you, and all those involved in this process, to take the utmost care in ensuring that these human remains continue to be protected so that the families of those lost may continue to grieve in peace.

Lincoln and Skinner, with support from community members, want to merge the two burial grounds in order to better manage and maintain the gravesites, and they want to safeguard the public-access roadway to permit easy ingress and egress during funerals, for those visiting and for maintenance crews.

Decioppo said the developer knows that many people are keeping a close eye on the project, and she thinks it will show care as the work proceeds. Oak Bluff Development plans to pave the dirt access road and incorporate it into the subdivision, while adding a buffer between the neighborhood and burial ground, she said.

Despite concerns that gravesites could be scattered through that area upon the bluff, including close to, or perhaps beneath, the road, the development team believes all graves have been appropriately identified, Delcioppo said.
Private schools suing the state for access to millions of dollars in public funds urged a federal judge to help South Carolina move beyond the "mistakes of its past" by forcing the distribution of the money to dozens of independent schools.

U.S. District Judge Bruce Hendricks heard arguments May 3 in Charleston from the religious institutions requesting a preliminary injunction to bypass the Blaine Amendment," which bans private schools from receiving public funds.

The amendment, which traces back to 1895, is preventing historically Black colleges and universities and Catholic schools from receiving "fair, equitable access" to COVID-19 emergency relief funding, said Daniel Suhr, attorney for the plaintiffs.

Suhr, an attorney with the Washington, D.C.-based Liberty Justice Center, claims the amendment is racist.

During the hearing, Suhr said he realized it's "no small thing" to ask the court to remove an amendment from the state constitution.

South Carolina has come a long way since 1895," Suhr said. "But though the state has come a long way, its past is with us still."

The Liberty Justice Center recently filed a lawsuit on behalf of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Charleston, which oversees 33 schools with over 7,000 students across South Carolina, and the S.C. Independent Colleges and Universities nonprofit group that represents 20 schools.

The court's intervention is urgent because religious and historically Black schools stand to lose out on up to $34 million in federal funds in COVID-19 relief aid, set aside for the schools by the governor, if the court doesn't act by May 11, which is the federal deadline for allocation of the money, attorneys wrote in their request for the preliminary injunction.

Named as defendants in the legal action are Gov. Henry McMaster, as well as the executive director of the state Department of Administration and the budget director.

The case is a result of frustration from the state Supreme Court's December decision to reject the governor's plan to spend federal coronavirus money on private school tuition grants, said attorney Thomas Limehouse Jr., representing McMaster.

That decision also put in limbo McMaster's ability to allocate private school vouchers. The governor included $14 million in lottery money to be allocated for private school vouchers in a proposal for the coming year's budget.

The governor received discretionary funds from the federal government's CARES Act to provide pandemic education relief in March 2020. McMaster wanted to give $32 million to private schools to help low- and moderate-income families. He also set aside $2.4 million for eight HBCUs in support of digital education access.

The governor, who disagrees with the Supreme Court's decision, warned the state's highest court of the serious implications the decision could have on independent colleges and universities trying to access money from the CARES Act, Limehouse said. However, the governor has taken an oath to enforce the law, Limehouse said.

Limehouse also argued the plaintiffs have no legal right over the discretionary funds.

Were all now stuck with (the Supreme Court's) decision," Limehouse said.

The arguments will be taken into advisement, and the court will proceed in the "next couple of days," Hendricks said.

The religious groups are taking aim at former prominent South Carolina politician Ben Pitchfork Tillman and the Blaine Amendment, named after U.S. Rep. James Blaine.

Under the guise of safeguarding American values, Blaine and the American Protective Association championed constitutional amendments to bar public funds from sectarian schools, plaintiffs said.

Plaintiffs argued the 1895 S.C. Constitution incorporated that provision, according to court records. Plaintiffs said "Pitchfork Bens racial bigotry lined up nicely with other delegates anti-Catholic bigotry" to produce a bar on taxpayer funds going directly or indirectly to sectarian religious institutions, including educational ones.

A Baptist food pantry, a Catholic hospital and a Muslim mosque can all receive taxpayer-funded COVID-19 relief, but not a school or university affiliated with any of those religions, plaintiffs said.
The research will investigate the conversion of halloysite nanotubes into advanced nanomaterials that can be utilised as novel adsorbent systems.

Andromeda and Minotaur representatives with GICAN members at the signing of a research partnership agreement

( ) and Minotaur Exploration Ltd ( ) (OTCMKTS:MURXF)  the joint owners of Natural Nanotech Pty Ltd (NNT) - have signed a A$4 million research partnership with the University of Newcastles Global Innovative Centre for Advanced Nanomaterials (GICAN).

The partnership will fund research into carbon dioxide capture using halloysite nanotubes, specifically the conversion of halloysite nanotubes into advanced nanomaterials that can be utilised as novel adsorbent systems and catalysts for CO2 capture and conversion processes.

Representatives from Natural Nanotech, Minotaur and Andromeda met with University of Newcastle Vice-Chancellor Alex Zelinsky, Professor Vinu and other senior leaders for the signing of the funding agreement at the Advanced Technology Centre at the Universitys Callaghan campus on Wednesday, April 28.

Developing commercially attractive solutions

NNTs projects with GICAN are directed at developing commercially attractive solutions for a range of environmental issues using nano-porous materials synthesised from natural halloysite-kaolin mixtures.

Halloysite-derived nanomaterials from the Great White Project of Andromeda and Minotaur are amenable to potential adsorbent-related applications in a broad range of areas due to their unique properties.

CO2 pilot plant underway

GICAN director Professor Ajayan Vinu said: Optimisation and establishment of the CO2 pilot plant are underway and this unique facility with the automated CO2 measurement system will be established at the University of Newcastle over the next few months.

GICAN team is actively working on increasing the specific surface area of the activated nanocarbon with the aim of reaching the target of two tonnes of CO2 per tonne of the adsorbent.

In addition to the CO2 adsorption, our team in collaboration with Andromeda, Minotaur and Natural Nanotech, is investigating the conversion of the adsorbed CO2 into fine chemicals, which is quite exciting and will make a huge impact in the field of CO2 chemistry."
Theres probably nothing we can say at this point to convince S.C. senators who dont already realize that its a bad idea to let concealed-weapon carriers start carrying their guns on their hips.

After all, they've heard all the arguments against it, and still they voted more than 2-to-1 last week to bypass committee and put a House-passed open-carry bill at the top of their agenda for debate as early as Tuesday.

Theyve heard from people who say they would feel threatened if they encountered someone wearing a gun, even if that person does nothing (other than wearing the gun) to threaten them. And from those who argued that having those guns visible puts everybody on edge, increasing the risk that disagreements will escalate into deadly violence.

Theyve heard from police who warn that it'll be even tougher to distinguish the bad guys from the good guns in active-shooter situations. And more commonly, theyll be placed in a legally precarious situation when citizens call to complain about someone walking around their neighborhood with a holstered gun  because thats not a crime, and legally speaking, they have no more justification for questioning someone walking down the street with a gun than someone walking down the street without a gun. (Retired SLED Chief Robert Stewart warned that the bill could get a lot of permit holders killed, because carrying a handgun openly would make them target No. 1 if they were present when a crime was being committed.)

We believe the entire bill should be defeated, because there is no reason to believe that the current law violates anyones constitutional rights, no one has presented a good reason its needed, and actual conservatives dont change things without a legitimate reason.

But even if they arent willing to do that, we would urge senators at least to pay attention to some other provisions of H.3094 that have gotten little attention.

The bill does allow local governments to prohibit the open carry of weapons at protests, festivals and other organized events that require a permit. But it says they cant extend the ban for any period before or after the event, which seems dangerous given that violence associated with protests often occurs after the event officially ends.

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The bill also says local governments may not exercise the provisions of this subsection if a permit is not applied for and issued prior to an event  which seems to invite people who want a fully armed protest to hold it without applying for a permit.

H.3094 also strips a provision from state law that makes it clear that state law does not affect the authority of any county, municipality, or political subdivision to regulate the careless or negligent discharge or public brandishment of firearms, nor does it prevent the regulation of public brandishment of firearms during the times of or a demonstrated potential for insurrection, invasions, riots, or natural disasters.

State law doesnt even define brandish, but several local governments, including Charleston, prohibit it. So it's not clear that police could charge someone who started waving his or her gun around in a menacing way.

Of course, the worst part of the bill is the part that isnt in it yet: Some senators want to transform a bill that allows open carry for licensed concealed-weapons permit holders into a bill that allows everybody who isnt legally barred from owning guns to carry those guns openly.

At least people with concealed-carry permits have passed criminal background checks and received some rudimentary training in what state law allows and doesnt allow them to do with their guns and where they are and are not allowed to carry those guns. And the people who apply for the permits tend to be law-abiding citizens  although SLED reports that it had to deny 2,660 permits in 2020 and that it revoked 1,199 more, which means not every one with a permit is law-abiding or otherwise fit to carry a gun.

Supporters call the idea of letting everybody carry their guns openly constitutional carry. That's the ultimate in trying to rewrite reality through language, because as Chief Stewart testified last week, if the U.S. Constitution gave people the right to carry their guns in public, we wouldnt be having this debate.

Except for a small portion of the population on the extremes, no one has ever believed the Constitution allows that; the U.S. Supreme Court has never even hinted that it does. Just the opposite, in fact. (The case the high court agreed to hear last month challenges a New York law that is far more restrictive than South Carolina's much more conservative law that was in place prior to our current concealed-carry law.)

The only reason to even consider such a radical law would be if we were backed into a corner and forced by the court to pass it, which hasn't happened. For that matter, no one has presented another reason that would justify allowing even permit holders to carry their guns openly.
During the past year, federal employees have dedicated themselves to keeping our country running while weathering a global pandemic.

They continue to provide essential financial services such as processing stimulus payments, tax refunds, small business loans, Social Security checks, mortgages and student loans to keep the economy churning and households operating.

As they do every day, they have kept us safe, tracking cyber threats, protecting the food supply and alerting Americans to treacherous weather conditions, among other critical and life-saving tasks.

Many were on the front lines, risking their own health to serve the American people. The pandemic took a heavy toll on these public servants: Countless workers were sickened while at work, and thousands died as a result.

And while many employees could work remotely, they put in hours around the clock, often while struggling to care for their families, like so many Americans.

Throughout the year, but especially during Public Service Recognition Week, May 2-8, Americans should express our thanks for these hard-working public servants, who make the everyday  and extraordinary  possible. I offer them my sincere appreciation.

PATRICIA WHITELY

Woodward Boulevard

Summerville

Change County Council

The Post and Courier has done a wonderful job exposing the shortcomings of the Charleston County Council.

The question I have is: How can we change things since these issues keep happening?

Any ideas, suggestions or actions that citizens can take are welcome.

DENNY CIGANOVIC

Carmel Bay Drive

Mount Pleasant

Cunninghams move up?

Theres a saying in business that goes: You mess up, you move up. How many have observed employees move up in their respective organizations after committing a serious failure or two?

South Carolina has two politicians who failed in the November election, Jaime Harrison and Joe Cunningham.

Mr. Harrison led the most expensive U.S. Senate race in history and got trounced. Hes now the chairman of the Democratic National Committee. He messed up, he moved up.

Mr. Cunningham, on the other hand, wasnt trounced but did lose the 1st Congressional District seat when it seemed that he was a shoo-in for reelection by his continuing verbal commitment to bipartisanship, his charismatic style of campaigning and the ongoing love affair he enjoys with The Post and Courier.

Well ultimately, he messed up. Will he move up? Well see in roughly a year and a half.

I hope that there will not be an irrationally exuberant raising of funds for the gubernatorial race. There are better things our money can do for all of us.

HOWIE HERBERT

Lazy River Drive

Charleston

Tired of mask orders

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An April 27 Post and Courier article stated that new outdoor mask guidance was expected soon from President Joe Biden.

Is anyone else as tired of being told what to do every day about COVID-19, vaccinations and masks?

When will they stop telling us what we can do and what we cant do?

We dont have to be led around like sheep. We can make decisions on our own. And lets keep politics out of this.

ELSIE CLEES

Forde Row

Charleston

Morris St. memories

Thank you for the trip down memory lane with the April 24 Post and Courier article, Exhibit recalls Morris Streets vibrant past.

Part of me always laments the destruction of familiar places that hold family memories.

My family owned the grocery store at the corner of Morris and St. Philip streets in downtown Charleston in the 1940s to the 1970s, when it was sold.

It was first named Georges after my maternal grandfather, George Manos, then Petes after my father.

My mothers family lived on top of the business, as did many other business owners back in the day.

Only the front facade remains after a fire damaged the building.

My family moved to their second home on Folly Beach after selling the business.

The cherished times spent in my familys St. Philip Street home and visiting the store, one of many Greek American groceries that served the Charleston community, are irreplaceable.

This piece of our lives can never be duplicated or replaced.

In a world where we strive for newer, bigger and better, we are reminded once again that what we once had holds a place in our hearts that can never be rivaled.

JACKIE MORFESIS

Gilmore Road

Charleston

Flood control funds

President Joe Biden is asking for a $2 trillion infrastructure bill, which includes flood control.

The Charleston area will probably need at least $2 billion over the years to control the areas flooding problems. Our senators and representatives must help get this funding.

The people they represent need them to take care of the state and the Lowcountry.

TERRY TSURUTIS

Bull Street

Charleston
Goose Creek, SC (29445)

Today

Rain showers early with scattered thunderstorms arriving for the afternoon. High around 85F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%..

Tonight

Mostly cloudy. Low 72F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph.
A literacy effort pushed by former Gov. Nikki Haley would put 12,000 books into the hands of schoolchildren in rural parts of the Palmetto State this summer.

In 2011, Haley, started the O6 Foundation, which aims to provide funding for rural and underperforming schools across the state.

A new program kicking off this month called "My First Library" plans to help over 1,250 students preparing to enter first grade. It would enable them to build their own personal collection of reading material at home.

Students who cant read by the third grade are four times more likely to drop out of school," Haley said in a statement. "Thats why these libraries are so important. Were telling these kids they matter, weve got their back and we are going to make sure they have the tools they need to succeed.

The organization plans to hold book fairs in eight school districts across Bamberg, Barnwell, Florence, Kershaw, Marion, Richland and Union counties.

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They will all help schools in areas that have been deemed high poverty by the S.C. Department of Education.

There is nothing more powerful than instilling the love of reading in a young child, said Nicki Hood, executive director of the O6 Foundation.

To learn more or donate visit: www.originalsixfoundation.org.

Haley, who served as U.S. ambassador to the United Nations under former President Donald Trump, has stepped somewhat out of the spotlight since the start of 2021.

Earlier this month, she said she wont run for president in 2024 if her former boss seeks to reclaim the office.
COLUMBIA  South Carolina public school leaders have until June to figure out how they're going to spend billions in federal COVID aid to make up for learning lost amid the pandemic.

Congress' biggest windfall to the state's K-12 districts, $1.9 billion approved in March, can't fully be distributed until the districts have their plans cemented.

Broken down, each district's share of the latest spending package ranges from $2.7 million for rural McCormick County to $163.1 million allotted to Charleston County.

Greenville County  the state's largest district  is a close second at $162.8 million, according to the state Department of Education. The calculations, released April 30, are based on districts' student numbers and poverty rates.

Districts will get two-thirds of their share May 24. The rest is dependent on state and federal approval of their intentions for the money.

Under federal rules, at least 20 percent must be spent on catching students up academically.

That requires a quick turnaround by June of long-range strategies. Districts have until September 2023 to spend the federal money.

State schools Superintendent Molly Spearman has asked for plans that help students in three pandemic levels  those doing relatively well, students who are a couple of months behind and those who are "really going to need tough remedial work," her spokesman, Ryan Brown, said.

"The kids furthest behind were probably behind before the pandemic," he told The Post and Courier on May 3. "They wont go to summer camp and suddenly be good to go."

The $1.9 billion provided in Congress' latest spending package is in addition to $846.4 million in federal aid allocated to South Carolina districts last December and $194.7 million sent from Congress' initial pandemic aid package in March 2020.

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A year later, districts have spent 56 percent of that first-round aid. How much more has been obligated but not yet paid for is unclear, Brown said.

Plans are still coming in for the second round; 35 of the state's 79 traditional districts haven't submitted any. Only 24 applications have been approved, Brown said.

Spearman's agency has no say over the details of how the money's spent locally, as long as school boards follow the federal laws' broad parameters. Allowed expenses include online connections, renovations, improving indoor air quality and however they decide to address learning loss.

But Spearman intends to incentivize what "we think will give the most bang for the buck," Brown said. "We can't tell them what to do, but if they do what we think they should, we'll give them more money."

That includes summer learning that goes beyond normal summer camps, one-on-one tutoring, and year-long programs before and after normal school hours. The incentives will come from the state agency's $327 million share of the three federal aid packages.

Greenville County has already started paying for tutoring  before, during and after-school hours  and expects to spend $7.5 million of the federal aid this year on summer learning. In all, the district has committed about $58 million, or 23 percent of its total allocations, according to a district breakdown.

Much of the public focus has been on elementary students faring poorly in online learning. And a big chunk of what Greenville County has committed so far is for elementary intervention. But a lot of high school students didn't do well either, said district spokesman Tim Waller.

"We've had large numbers of high school students turn in Fs throughout this calendar year," he said.

"People think of summer school as one or two schools offering courses for a handful of students who didn't do so well. This summer, summer school is going to be a different animal," he continued. "Almost all of our schools will be open, welcoming in students from all geographic parts of Greenville County to help them make up their grades."
The hearing may not have been packed to the gills, but it was refreshing to hear how citizens, and not just elected leaders, want to spend the Read more
Like most Americans, Reuben Sushman is eligible to get his COVID-19 vaccine shot. But he's living in Thailand, where only 1% of the population has so far been vaccinated, so there's no telling when he will be able to get his shot.

After weighing all his options, he flew to Guam in mid-April not only to get a U.S. Food and Drug Administration-authorized COVID-19 vaccine, but also to get a vacation.

As a businessman, he's able to continue working remotely from his hotel room during the 14-day quarantine, so no time was wasted, he said.

In Thailand, he said, he's had difficulty getting a vaccine and had to rely on a vaccine brand that the host country provides.

"It's all worth it," Sushman said, of going the extra mile to travel to Guam to get vaccinated.

Going to Guam, which only has a three-hour difference from Thailand, made the most sense after weighing that against at least a 16-hour flight to go back to the states, cross several time zones, and get jet-lagged.

Many of his fellow Americans in Thailand and other places knew Guam only to be the host of U.S. military presence, but not a tropical vacation destination, he said.

Sushman, founder and chief executive officer at Victory Cloud Computing Services Ltd., was pleasantly surprised about the beauty of Guam, and thinks that Guam should pursue "vaccine tourism."

"They should pursue it. Get the PR out there. They should do something to promote it, like 'come back to the U.S. for your vaccination at the beautiful beaches of Guam, relax, enjoy," he said. "There's nothing that stops you from coming here."

Sushman reached out to The Guam Daily Post after it ran a story about the Guam Visitors Bureau weighing the possibility of marketing the island as a "vaccination destination" among American expats in Japan, Korea, the Philippines and other Asia-Pacific countries.

Guam's main tourism markets are still struggling with vaccination and new COVID-19 cases while GVB is looking to invigorate tourism more than a year after the pandemic hit.

"I think a lot of U.S. citizens in this region don't know about Guam. It's all about mindset and Guam needs to promote it, saying 'come back to the U.S.," Sushman said. "The point is, I think Guam can easily promote it."

On the day he was released from hotel quarantine, he checked in at another hotel in Tumon and got his first dose of the Pfizer vaccine at the University of Guam Calvo Field House COVID-19 vaccination clinic.

"I recognize that its the federal government thats distributing the vaccine. So it really doesn't make a difference what state or territory I go to, as long as I have a U.S. passport," he said.

Guam has one of the highest full vaccination rates on American soil. It has ample supply of FDA-approved COVID-19 vaccines: the two-dose Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech, and the single-dose Johnson & Johnson Janssen vaccine.

Sushman also secured an appointment to get his second dose, and will be moving to another hotel with better and more open amenities that include helping him with diving and other tourist needs.

He said he personally knows people who died because of COVID-19 and whose whole family got the virus, and if getting himself better protection means traveling thousands of miles away, then so be it.

"My health comes first," he said. "I said I'm gonna come here, enjoy myself at the beach, but I wish more things are open and more things open at night."

On his social media, he posted, "Should have come here years ago. Where else can one go to IHOP, Ruby Tuesday's and Denny's all in the same day in (Asia-Pacific). Looking forward to my first vaccination and diving along with SUP soon."

He said he's been sharing his experience and thoughts about vacationing and getting vaccinated on Guam with his fellow expats.

Governor: Worth looking into seriously

Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero, during a Friday press conference delaying Guam's tourism reopening, said vaccine tourism has been under discussion and she thinks it's something "worth looking into seriously."

The governor said she will be making a call with Army Gen. Gustave F. Perna, who heads federal government's Operation Warp Speed, to see whether he can give Guam additional COVID-19 supplies for this population of American expats in the region.

"I am very concerned about impacting our supply for our own residents and our own people but if we can get extra supply or added supply for our volume of vaccination, I think that would be great idea to pursue," the governor said.

Sushman said if he could only meet with the governor or other GovGuam officials before he leaves to share his thoughts on how vaccine tourism can be promoted, then that would be great.

GVB officials have not made a final decision whether to pursue it, but they said the bureau has been getting inquiries from American expats and American Chambers of Commerce from the Asia-Pacific region about it.

Sushman said the airfare to Guam is costlier via Tokyo rather than transitting through Manila, but he said it's a small price to pay for one's health and safety.

From Guam, Sushman said he will go on a business trip to Dubai. That may be before he's considered fully vaccinated, which is two weeks after getting his second dose, but he said it's much better than not having any added layer of protection at all.

Overall, Sushman's Guam vaccination and vacation rolled into one is about five weeks, much longer than Guam's typical visitors that stay here mostly for less than a week.

Sushman said he also likes the warm hospitality of the people on the island. On Sunday, he got lost finding his way back to Tumon after visiting Micronesia Mall. Two local residents, he said, saw him and offered to give him a ride back to his hotel.

"To the persons who drove me back to Tumon, thank you."
Triangle Energy (Global) Ltd's ( ) Rob Towner speaks to Proactive's Andrew Scott soon after announcing they've reached an agreement with (LON:BP) (NYSE:BP) (FRA:BPE5) to store crude oil at BPs Kwinana facility in Western Australia. The storage agreement is for one year and brings to an end a period of uncertainty regarding the storage of oil from Triangle Energys flagship Cliff Head Oil Field in the Perth Basin.
@montcocourtnews on Twitter

Carl Hessler Jr. is a multi-media reporter who writes about crime and justice from the Montgomery County Courthouse for 21st Century Media Newspapers Greater Philadelphia area publications. Follow Carl on Twitter: @MontcoCourtNews
State's waitlist system an injustice to those who are disabled
This Washington Post article is a puff piece about Joe Bidens North Korea strategy. The byline goes to John Hudson and Ellen Nakashima, but the credit probably belongs to the members of Team Biden who fed them the drivel.

According to the Post, Biden has found a middle way between President Obamas arms length approach to the crisis of North Korean nukes (i.e., his neglect of the matter) and President Trumps all or nothing approach. Instead of trying to strike a grand bargain under which North Korea abandons its nuclear program in exchange for substantial economic aid, Team Biden contemplates an incremental or phased approach whereby gradual denuclearization by North Korea is accompanied by a gradual lifting of sanctions. In other words, partial sanctions relief in exchange for partial denuclearization, resulting eventually in North Korean nuclear disarmament.

On the face of things, it looks like Biden thinks Kim Jong Un is a fool. The brutal dictator isnt willing, all at once, to give up nukes for large amounts of aid, but can be induced to the same place in small steps, apparently without realizing it. Sure.

In reality, however, its the American media and electorate that Team Biden is playing. Its feeding us catch phrases  calibrated, practical approach to diplomacy and careful modulated diplomatic approach  and staking out a phony middle ground between Obama and Trump. It wants to create the impression that it has a strategy for achieving denuclearization, but what it really has is a strategy to paper over a return to the Obama approach of kicking the can down the road.

The sad thing is that Team Biden hasnt underestimated the intelligence of large swaths of the American media and electorate. His calibrated, modulated approach wont alter North Korean behavior, but it will cause the problem to recede from public consciousness.
News item: Biden Administration is prohibiting a July 4 fireworks celebration at Mount Rushmore. Previous July 4 fireworks celebrations at Mount Rushmore had proceeded as a joint venture between the state of South Dakota and the National Park Service. Gov. Kristi Noem has filed suit against the Biden Administration.

News item: Pentagon refuses to issue a parking permit for the annual Memorial Day Rolling Thunder motorcycle rally. COVID risk is the stated reason, but Im guessing the real reason is the likelihood of too many Trump flags being displayed by the riders. The annual rally has perviously used the Pentagons massive parking lot as a staging area for the rally.

Observations: I have no idea whether Gov. Noems lawsuit will be successful. My hunch is probably not, but in any case I think litigation is not the best strategy. How about openly defying the federal government? Gov. Noem ought to announce that this is the kind of decision that belongs wholly to the sovereign people of the state of South Dakota and not the White House, and that the July 4 celebration will go forward as planned. Better still is if Gov. Noem could get President Trump to attend. Is the Biden Administration going to send federal marshals to arrest Gov. Noem and the former president?

Alternatively, Gov. Noem could ask the Dakota indian tribe to co-host a July 4 fireworks show, perhaps at the site of the unfinished Crazy Horse monument not far from Mount Rushmore. In either case, the July 4 event should be labeled as a political protest, recalling that last summers BLM protests were excused from COVID restrictions because political protest is sacred. Lets demonstrate that resistance is a two-way street.

Meanwhile, Rolling Thunder is going to go ahead as planned, with improvised rally points scattered around the DC area, such as the parking lot to old RFK stadium, causing DC to fear a traffic nightmare. We often hear about gridlock in Washington. Lets give them some of the real thing.

As Jefferson put it in 1798: It would be a dangerous delusion were a confidence in the men of our choice to silence our fears for the safety of our rights; that confidence is everywhere the parent of despotismfree government is founded in jealousy, and not in confidence; it is jealousy and not confidence which prescribes limited constitutions, to bind down those whom we are obliged to trust with power.
This is the most sublime 70 seconds of video youre likely to see today:

And Democrats wonder why Trump increased his share of the minority vote last fall. (Aside: while the initial speculation was that Trumps increased share of the Hispanic vote came from macho Hispanic men, the data show he actually increased his vote share more among Hispanic women.)

Meanwhile, an update on our previous story about Braden Ellis, the Cypress College student who stood up for the police in class only to be berated by an idiot college professor. Young Mr. Ellis appeared on Fox News (below). Ellis has decided not to identify the professor (nor is it clear just how this clip made its way to YouTube in the first place), though it is reported separately that the professor, apparently an adjunct, is now on leave. I believe I have identified the professor, but will await further reporting.
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The Nigerian government and Microsoft have detailed several projects aimed at intensifying the nations move to become a more digital economy.

Microsoft said Monday that after extensive consultations with the government, it identified three key pillars that will help to build strong foundations for a digital economy in Nigeria: connectivity, skilling and digital transformation.

We believe in the future of Nigeria, and we are excited as a company to add to our investments, says Brad Smith, Microsoft President. Together, we have an enormous opportunity to put technology to work, create jobs, to foster the technology ecosystem across Nigeria, and to use technology to preserve the best of the past and take us into the future.

Microsoft plans to deploy its Airband Initiative, which has succeeded in bringing high-speed internet connectivity to underserved communities around the world, tapping into the unused broadcasting frequencies of television white spaces. The technology is cheaper and faster to deploy than fibre and has the added benefit of being able to travel long distances and through forested terrain.

The software-making firm said following discussions with the Federal Ministry of Communication and Digital Economy and local partners, six regions in the country have been earmarked for the development of high-speed internet infrastructure.

Microsofts Airband team will work closely with local partners to improve broadband connectivity in these communities while also assisting with the design and implementation of hyper-scale cloud services.

The firm said it is committed to up-skilling 5 million people in Nigeria over the next three years. To help reach this goal, 1,700 trainers will provide blended online and in-person training courses to the countrys youth as well as government workers.

Government will also be given the tools to digitally transform skilling, education, and employment methods to match job seekers with the right employers. In doing so, we hope to create over 27,000 new digital jobs in the next three years, Mr Smith said.

We are setting ourselves a big goal, to bring access to digital skills to five million people in Nigeria over the next three years, continues Smith. But this is not something we can do by ourselves. We will equip master trainers and, along with them, are committed to creating thousands of new jobs.

The final pillar, digital transformation, will initially be made up of two initiatives. The first will address corruption, a major global challenge with economic losses totalling $3.6 trillion each year. By collaborating with local partners, Microsoft will support the design and implementation of cloud-based tools to further enable governments fight against corruption. Microsoft will be partnering with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission to apply technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning to help identify potential risk, highlight them, and reduce corruption.

The second initiative will help protect Nigerias rich cultural heritage, as Microsoft will look to deploy artificial intelligence tools to safeguard these treasures for future generations. Through a newly formed partnership with the National Institute of Cultural Orientation, Microsoft will support the organisations efforts to preserve and revive Nigerias three major indigenous languages: Hausa, Yoruba, and Igbo. This is one of my favourite projects that we pursue around the world. It uses the most advanced technology of the 21st century to nurture and keep alive the culture that has been so important for humanity from the centuries past, concludes Mr Smith.

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo wrote on Twitter Monday that the initiatives were the outcome of the discussions he had in January with Mr Smith.

Today, I am delighted to announce some initiatives that the Nigerian government will be embarking on with the Microsoft Corporation over the next few months.  Prof Yemi Osinbajo (@ProfOsinbajo) May 3, 2021

I am very pleased to see that within a very short time, we have moved from ideas to implementation, he said.
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Dangote Cement Plcs huge investment has been described as one of the major contributors to the development of the Senegalese economy. Besides, the cement plant located in Pout, 60 kilometres away from Dakar, has greatly assisted in strengthening the business relationship between Senegal and Nigeria.

Dangote Cement Senegal currently holds a capacity of 1.5 million tonnes per year, producing higher quality cement to meet the countrys demand as well exporting to neighbouring countries around Senegal.

The Charge DAffaires, Embassy of Nigeria, Senegal, A.K Zanna, who spoke on the contributions of Dangote Cements investment in Senegal at his office in Dakar recently, called on Dangote and other interested investors to explore the investment opportunities available in the Senegalese Salt Mining and Real Estate industry.

According to him, Dangote Cements investment in Senegal is contributing significantly to the countrys Gross Domestic Product (GDP), through its export revenue from neighbouring countries and social investments in the country. I think the company has done a lot in strengthening the existing relationship between Nigeria and Senegal, he added.

Mr Zanna stated, As one of the biggest foreign investors in the Senegalese economy, Dangote Cement is contributing significantly to the countrys economic development. We are proud to associate with the company as a Nigerian brand. The company has done a lot in Senegal since its establishment in 2015. It has created huge employment for the Senegalese; it has created both direct and indirect employment opportunities for many people in Senegal.

He said Dangote Cement is contributing significantly to the relationship between Nigeria and Senegal. Unfortunately, most of the trade relations between Nigeria and Senegal are in the informal sector. However, with the ways things are going, there is going to be improvement in economic activities between both countries. Already, we have two Nigerian banks operating in Senegal. And Many Nigerian companies have signified interests in investing in the Senegalese economy. This will further improve the business relationship between the two countries, he said.

The Envoy also commended the company for contributing to the well- being of its host and surrounding communities in Pout, Senegal. Dangote is involved in corporate social responsibilities programmes. The company has done a lot for the communities where it is located. The companys community development in Senegal is assisting the governments responsibilities to its citizens.

I know that the company has built maternity clinics, health centres, schools, awarded scholarships to students, and created avenue for poverty eradication in the country. The company is also fully involved in women empowerment. Dangote Cements Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programmes are having direct positive impact on the host communities. So, by extension, the company is shouldering some of the responsibilities of the Senegalese government.

He also urged investors from Nigeria to invest in Senegalese Real Estate industry. Senegal is becoming a vibrant economy and the country building a new city at Diaminadio. There is opportunity for investment in real estate in the Senegalese economy. Apart from that, maybe by 2023, Senegal will start production of crude oil and many opportunities will be available for Nigerians with technical expertise in the oil sector.

The country manager, Dangote Cement, Senegal, Luk Haelterman, attributed the success of the company in Senegal in the past five years to the companys investment in quality production and introduction of what is commonly referred to as the Senegallisation Policy.

ALSO READ: Dangote Cement Q1 profit climbs to N90 billion on booming sales

According to him, the companys introduction of 42.5-degree brand of cement to the major market in Senegal upon entry has enabled the company gain the desired market share in the country.

He stated, The success of Dangote Cement is coming from quality planning based merely on the improvement on the quality of cement to 42.5R that was not available everywhere and certainly not to everybody at affordable price in Senegal. Introducing this into the market was a guarantee for us to gain the market share that we needed.

Secondly, without any doubt, is the creation of a very good team spirit and passionate involvement in aiming at continuous improvement towards excellence. When we entered the market, it was characterised by 32.5-grade cement. We supplied 42.5-grade cement at affordable price. Putting up quality gave us a chance to enter the market.

Luk also disclosed that Dangote Cement Senegal has developed a culture of supporting local employees and prioritising local hiring, which allows local country employees have the necessary knowledge, experience, and support to take up key roles within the company.

He said the policy aims to gradually reduce the number of expatriates employed by the business by enhancing the skills and capacity of Senegalese employees to take up leadership positions.

We have ensured that our image has been aligned with two key principles from day one: maintaining high quality, and taking a local approach in everything that we do, he said.
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Controversial rapper, Eedris Abdulkareem, has released a new song titled Jaga Jaga Oti Get e which takes a jab at the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Festus Keyamo.

The new song follows Mr Keyamos public exposure of private communication between them.

Mr Keyamo recently accused the rapper of resorting to blackmail after failing to extort money to support President Muhammadu Buharis administration.

The minister backed his claims with screenshots of text message exchanges between himself and the rapper which he shared in a series of posts on his verified social media handles.

But calling Mr Keyamos bluff in a lengthy post on his Instagram handle, Eedris tagged him a cabal member and added that Keyamo is in pain because his next ambition is to be governor of Delta State.

Justifying the release of the song, he accused the minister of hatching what he described as a pre-planned character assassination plot in a very devious and unrelenting fashion against him.

He said, Someone I asked for help in a time of great need, someone whom I hitherto thought should have known better, but whose hatred for the truth and truth seekers drove him and his outrageously extended, venom coated hideous fangs overboard.

His hate drove him over the precipice, to the extent that the management of a big tech organization like Twitter deemed his vituperation as unsavory, distasteful, crude, and uncouth and asked him to take down the offensive and idiotic posts or get blacklisted like other uncouth peeps like him.

And this is a serving minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria! A Senior Advocate in the nations Temple of Justice!! And a so-called social reformerwhat a shame.

The rapper also said, Jaga Jaga Oti Get e is his own side of the story in the only way he knows best, through his music.

He added that the video will follow soon.

Reacting to the feedback from his fans, Eedris said, He (Keyamo) hasnt seen anything yet part 2 dey come.

The cover art for the single sees the minister topless and behind bars.

Listen to the track below
Thomson will assume management of the Mt Carrington project and will have sole responsibility for keeping the project in good standing.

Mt Carrington is 5 kilometres from the township of Drake in northern NSW

( ) ( ) and Thomson Resources ( ) have executed a definitive agreement to advance the Mt Carrington Gold-Silver Project in northern New South Wales following the completion of due diligence.

The agreement provides for a three-stage earn-in and option to joint venture whereby Thomson can earn-in for up to 70% of White Rocks Mt Carrington project and at Thomsons election form a JV.

It also contemplates Thomson funding the advancement of Mt Carrington through to:

A definitive feasibility study;

Completion and submission of the environmental impact statement (EIS); and

Concurrent with community consultation, achieving government development consent and sourcing funding - so placing the project and its partners in a position to then fund, build and commission the project under the joint venture agreement.

Clear strategy to unlock potential

Managing director Matt Gill said: White Rock is extremely pleased to partner with a visionary group like Thomson Resources.

They have a clear strategy to unlock the potential from the consolidation of various gold and silver assets in and around our advanced Mt Carrington project in NSW.

Securing a quality partner to advance Mt Carrington is a key and timely step in White Rocks strategy to unlock the value in all of our projects.

The lure of free-carry at Mt Carrington through stages 1, 2 and 3, as well as project management allocation to Thomson, will allow White Rock to focus funds and management time on our two exciting Alaskan projects and on the equally exciting production and exploration opportunities within the high-grade Victorian Walhalla-Woods Point gold belt.

Joint venture agreement details

Thomson and White Rock have entered into a binding agreement for a three-stage earn-in and option to joint venture.

The agreement is between Thomsons wholly-owned subsidiary, Lassiter Resources Pty Ltd, and White Rock's wholly-owned subsidiary, White Rock (MTC) Pty Ltd.

Payments:

A$150,000 and 1 million fully paid ordinary shares in Thomson which were paid and issued on signing the initial Term Sheet;

A$150,000 was paid on signing the definitive Joint Venture Agreement and satisfaction of various conditions to closing (Earn-In Commencement Date);

A$400,000 on expiration of 12 months from the Earn-In Commencement Date; and

A$500,000 on earning and electing to take the Stage 2 Interest.

White Rock is free-carried through the earn-in period.

Thomson will assume management of Mt Carrington and will have sole responsibility for keeping the project in good standing and funding all of the site care and maintenance costs until formation of the joint venture agreement, be that on a 30:70, 51:49 or 70:30 basis.

Thomson is committed to stage-1 of the earn-in including a minimum spend of $500,000 in the first six months of the JVA and making progressive cash payments to White Rock along the way, totalling A$550,000 over the first 18 months.

Mt Carrington has existing mineral resources of gold and silver contained in eight near-surface deposits that could be exploited by open pit mining methods, as well as a JORC gold reserve.

Fold Belt Hub and Spoke strategy

The key projects underpinning this strategy have been aggressively acquired by Thomson in only a four-month period since November 2020.

These projects include the Webbs and Conrad Silver Projects, Mt Carrington Silver-Gold Project and Texas Silver Project, all in northern NSW.

As part of its Fold Belt Hub and Spoke Strategy, Thomson has targeted, in aggregate, in-ground material available to a central processing facility of 100 million ounces of silver equivalent.

Thomson is evaluating whether the consolidated portfolio will allow for a central processing facility and the blending of ores for beneficiation purposes and the critical resource scale to justify the use of processing technologies that are not being considered under currently proposed processing pathways for the individual projects.

Thomson has engaged Brisbane-based metallurgical and process engineering consultants CORE Resources to evaluate the numerous metallurgical studies on these projects and other projects targeted for consolidation, and to confirm potential compatibility of ores and processing options, including the potential for COREs world-leading process technologies to optimise processing and recovery of precious, base and technology metals.
On the day Nigeria announced a travel ban on three countries experiencing a surge in COVID-19 cases, the country continued its trend of recording low infection and casualty figure from the virus.

There were no fatalities recorded from COVID-19 in Nigeria on Sunday as the country reported its lowest daily infection in several months.

Nigeria recorded 14 new cases on Sunday, an update by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) shows.

The new figure raised the total number of infections in the country to 165,167.

According to the update, no new death was recorded from the virus which has already claimed 2,063 lives in the country.

This makes it the fourth consecutive day that nobody died from the disease in the country.

The number of deaths recorded from the virus has declined recently with only two deaths recorded in the last 19 days.

The 14 new cases were reported from Seven states; Osun-3, Ogun-3, Kaduna-3, Akwa Ibom-2, Abia-1, FCT-1 and Kwara-1.

A breakdown of the latest data shows that 252 people were discharged on Sunday after testing negative for the virus. This brings the total number of discharged persons after treatment to 155,361.

Todays report includes 248 community recoveries in Kwara State managed in line with guidelines, the NCDC said.

Meanwhile, 7,743 infections are still active in the country, the infectious disease body said.

Since the pandemic broke out in Nigeria in February 2020, the country has carried out over 1.9 million tests.

More Nigerians are also taking shots of the Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine.

The country commenced vaccination against the virus on March 5, beginning with health care workers.

Almost two months after, about 1.2 million people have received their first dose of the vaccines, according to data by the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA).

While Nigeria continues to experience low COVID-19 figures, the country is also taking steps to prevent imported cases from countrys battling with a resurgence in COVID-19 cases.

On Sunday, Nigeria announced a ban on travels from Brazil, India and Turkey, countries currently battling with COVID-19 resurgence.

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About two months after it rolled out one of Africas largest COVID-19 vaccination programme, Nigeria has administered only 1.2 million vaccine shots, less than two per cent of a target it set for the end of the year.

To achieve herd immunity against COVID-19, Nigeria had set an ambitious goal of vaccinating 40 per cent of its over 200 million population before the end of 2021, and 70 per cent by the end of 2022.

About 70 per cent of the total population needs to receive the COVID-19 vaccines to completely eradicate the virus, the Executive Director of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Faisal Shuaib said in January ahead of the vaccine rollout.

Mr Shuaib said about 40 per cent will be vaccinated in 2021, while the remaining 30 per cent will be covered in 2022.

To vaccinate 40 per cent of Nigerias 200 million citizens means 80 million people would have received their full doses by the end of the year.

But with only 1.2 million vaccinated two months into the campaign, Nigeria needs to vaccinate about 78.8 million people in the remaining seven months of 2021. Also, most of those already vaccinated are yet to get their second shots.

Health experts say the rate at which the vaccines are administered is a drop in the ocean and will do little towards reaching the 80 million target for this year.

In this report, PREMIUM TIMES examines key factors limiting Nigerias ambitious vaccination target.

Slow start

Nigerias vaccine roll-out plan is divided into four phases. The country is still in the first phase, starting with health workers, frontline workers, COVID-19 rapid response team, laboratory network, policemen, petrol station workers and strategic leaders.

According to the NPHCDA, about 1.2 million people have received their first shots so far, more than half of the targeted priority groups in the first phase.

Going by the current vaccination pace, however, less than nine million people would have been vaccinated in Nigeria by the end of 2021. The figure is less than 15 per cent of the 80 million citizens targeted.

Health analysts say they expected a rush in the first phase of the rollout considering that the priority groups  health workers and other frontline workers  can easily be located.

Instead, what we are seeing is a snail-pace start, said Ikemesit Effiong, a forensic health expert with SBM Intelligence. This is more worrisome because even health workers appear to be reluctant to take a jab. At this rate, its most unlikely for us to meet the target.

PREMIUM TIMES reporters recently visited some vaccination centres in Abuja and witnessed a poor turn out.

Between 12 noon and 3:00 p.m. on a Tuesday at the vaccination centre inside the National Hospital, Abuja, less than15 people queued up at a time even though the process was seamless and hitch-free.

Also, most of the people on the queue  including a young athlete, a bank worker and a businessman  are not categorised under the vaccination priority groups.

At least five health workers at the facility told our reporters they are yet to take a jab and expressed reluctance on when they will do so.

Tayo Haastrup, the hospitals spokesperson, did not give a clear response on why health workers appeared hesitant in taking a jab. He, however, admitted that people from other groups other than front liners are allowed to get their first doses so as to hasten the process and avoid spoilage.

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Vaccine shortages

Having received 3.94 million doses of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine through the COVAX facility in early March, Nigeria commenced vaccination beginning with healthcare workers and other priority groups.

Nigeria on March 21 received another 300,000 doses of the same vaccine from telecom giant, MTN. On April 6, the government of India also delivered 100,000 doses of Covishield vaccines to Nigeria bringing the total number of vaccines in stock to about 4.4million.

Due to limited doses of vaccine, the Nigerian government announced it will pause the vaccine rollout once half of the about 4.4million doses in stock are exhausted to forestall stock out when those already vaccinated start coming back for their second doses.

The AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine is given in double doses. A person is required to come back for a second shot, about four to six weeks after taking the first jab.

The Minister of State for Health, Olorunnimbe Mamora, had admitted that Nigeria was not sure when the next batch of vaccines would arrive in the country.

We believe that in a situation where we still cannot specifically determine when the next batch of AstraZeneca vaccines will arrive, then I think wisdom only dictates that it is better for us to vaccinate people fully, Mr Mamora said in Abuja penultimate Tuesday.

And so that we can say that we have a pool of citizens that have been fully vaccinated since this vaccination comes in two doses.

Mr Shuaib said there is a global shortfall of production of COVID-19 vaccines largely due to the manufacturers not meeting their projected targets.

These developments have now necessitated that we reassess our vaccine supply forecasts and take the decision to ensure that everyone who has taken the vaccine in the current phase gets the second dose before the next consignment is delivered to Nigeria, he said.

Poor awareness/vaccine hesitancy

Health experts linked the low number of inoculations to vaccine hesitancy.

While much attention is channelled to the procurement of vaccines and rollout plan, a problem of mistrust and unfounded misconceptions about COVID-19 vaccines has been allowed to flourish.

Majority of respondents in a recent survey conducted by PREMIUM TIMES said they will let the opportunity for them to get vaccinated pass. Their reasons differ but can be linked to a general mistrust of government policies and its opaque handling of the pandemic.

In a study by a research firm, SBM Intel, in all 36 states and the FCT, only 39.9 per cent of Nigerians said they will take the jabs.

The survey, titled: COVID in Nigeria  The second wave and published in January, reviewed peoples perceptions about the existence of COVID-19 and the COVID-19 vaccines.

While 35.9 per cent of the respondents said they will not take the vaccine, 24.1 per cent are unsure of their position yet.

In interviews with some respondents who are opposed to the vaccine, some held that it is a religious war to contaminate the children of God with evil substances, the research firm said.

Some believe that the vaccines are a tool to depopulate Nigeria, while others expressed concern about the effectiveness ratio and the side effects that the vaccine might have. Some were more concerned with the thoughts of being used as Guinea pigs for drug trials.

For Nigeria to have an effective vaccination campaign, public health experts say the challenge of actually persuading people to get a shot must be addressed urgently.

Safety concerns

While there are no known unusual and adverse side-effect recorded among those that received the jabs thus far, many Nigerians are still wary over lingering safety concerns about the AstraZeneca vaccines, especially in Europe.

Reports of an unusual blood clotting disorder among few European recipients have continued to raise safety concerns.

A week after Nigeria received the nearly 4 million doses of the oxford vaccines in early March, several European countries paused the distribution of the vaccines, following reports that some people had developed blood-clotting disorders after receiving the jab.

The highly unusual combination of symptomswidespread blood clots and a low platelet count, sometimes associated with bleedinghas so far been reported from at least seven countries, sparking a flurry of suspensions in mid-march.

However, a review of the cases by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) could not say definitively whether the reported cases were linked to the AstraZeneca vaccine, and concluded that the benefits of the vaccine outweigh any risk.

The countries have since resumed vaccinations while Nigerian authorities continue to say the vaccines the country received is a different batch from the ones causing problems in Europe.

Meanwhile, global health bodies have warned health authorities to be on the lookout for the clotting disorder in vaccine recipients and report them.

Registration confusion

Prior to the start of the vaccination, the NPHCDA shared a link to a website where citizens are expected to book their vaccination appointments.

A week-long monitoring of the webpage revealed that people from other groups other than the priority group in first phase of the rollout can also register and be scheduled for vaccination.

There were no restrictions around the vaccination dates available to different population groups or around who is able to register. The registration process also does not provide any means for the government to verify those claiming to be front-line workers.

Some Nigerians who registered on the platform complained they had to register twice after their details could not be verified at the designated vaccination site.

Also, the online process can be described as elitist because many Nigerians especially in the rural areas are not internet savvy and therefore could find the process cumbersome, Jerry Oche, a public health financing expert said.

Unguaranteed expectations?

Nigeria is still expecting an additional 12 million doses of AstraZeneca vaccines through the COVAX facility, which promised to deliver an overall 16 million doses to the country.

Also, Nigerias health minister, Osagie Ehanire had at a Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19 briefing said 42 million doses of the AstraZeneca vaccines will be delivered to the country through the African Vaccine Acquisition Task Team (AVATT).

AVATT was set up by the African Union to acquire additional vaccine doses so that Africa can attain a target immunization of 60 per cent.

Also, the federal government has signed off to receive up to 29.8 million doses of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccines through the African Union platform, Mr Shuaib said last week.

He said Nigeria is also expecting more vaccines through the COVAX facility by the end of May or early June.

He said by then, the country would have completed the process of administering the second dose of the current Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccines to vaccinated people.

While Nigerian authorities are confident of the millions of doses it is expecting from the various arrangements it keyed into, there are no guarantees as the country is getting them for free.

Mr Effiong said meeting the target at the current pace is unlikely largely because Nigerias vaccination strategy is hinged on securing as many supplies of vaccines doses from other countries as possible.

But you are finding out that in the main production centres for vaccines, those countries are ramping up their national vaccination programme. For instance, India the host country of the Serum institute which produces vaccines for the COVAX facility will prioritise its own domestic vaccination programme, Mr Effiong said.

African Union has said it will not consider AstraZeneca as one of the vaccines that it will be procuring and its looking at securing vaccine doses from Johnson & Johnson and that will take time. Not just in terms of getting the deal done, but waiting until the implementation period.

The earliest timeframe given for that is till the end of this year. So, when you combine all that, there are lots of things that are outside the control of Nigeria health regulators, which will ultimately contribute towards the continued slow rollout of Nigerias vaccination programme, he explained.
Nigerias Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) Abubakar Malami, said on Monday that the 4.2 million (about N2.4 billion) recovered from associates of the convicted former Governor of Delta State, James Ibori, in the United Kingdom (U.K.), would soon be transferred to Nigeria.

Mr Malamis spokesperson, Umar Gwandu, said in a statement that the delay in the repatriation of the fund since the March 2021 agreement between the Nigerian and U.K. governments was partly caused by documentations in foreign banks.

Documentations with the banks in different countries often take longer than anticipated. We anticipated two weeks but we are not in control of the banks, the statement said.

The statement noted that sometimes, when a country transfers funds, it may take more than the expected time due to some documentations.

It added that the government was working assiduously to ensure that the fund was repatriated to Nigeria soon.

PREMIUM TIMES reported that the representatives of both the U.K. and Nigerian governments signed an agreement for the return of the money, which translates to about N2.4 billion, to Nigeria in Abuja on March 9.

The signing of the agreement, which took place at the Federal Ministry of Justice, Abuja, was done under the auspices of the U.K.-Nigeria Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which came into force in 2016.

The British High Commissioner, Catriona Laing, signed the agreement on behalf of the U.K. government while Mr Malami signed it on behalf of the Nigeria government.

Fund will get to Nigeria soon

Mr Malami, who is also the Minister of Justice, said the federal government, is in touch with the government of the United Kingdom on the matter.

There is neither complacency nor any delay as efforts are being made to ensure successful transfer of the looted funds, the ministerial spokesperson said.

To this end, Malami said any moment from now, Nigeria expects the return of 4.2m seized from the associates of convicted former Governor of Delta State, James Ibori, the statement added.

It added that the AGF office and other relevant government agencies would keep the general public informed once the Ibori loot were received and confirmed.

Controversy over looted fund

The issue of how the recovered fund will be expended when finally returned to Nigeria has been a matter of intense battle between the federal and Delta State governments.

The federal government, through the AGF, has said the fund would be ploughed into the construction of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, Abuja-Kano Road and the Second Niger Bridge, which he said would boost economic growth and help alleviate poverty.

But the Delta State Government said the money should be returned to it and it should be left to decide how to spend the funds since its people are the victims of the looting by their former governor.

It recalled that the funds and assets recovered from former Governor of Bayelsa State, the late Diepreye Alamieyeseigha, who was equally convicted of corruption charges in July 2007, were returned to the states coffers, so the Ibori loot should not be treated differently.

The return of the Ibori loot to Nigeria is bound to reignite the battle between the federal government and the Delta State Government once the 4.2 million loot hits Nigerias account.

Iboris conviction

About 4.2 million was recovered from Mr Iboris associates and relatives.

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Mr Ibori pleaded guilty to money laundering, conspiracy to defraud, and forgery in a U.K. court in February 2012.

He was sentenced to a total of 13 years in prison.

Some of his associates and family also received sentences for similar offences and were similarly sent to prison.

Mr Ibori, a man who stole millions from the suffering people of oil-rich Delta State and laundered the proceeds in the U.K., had earlier been set free of the charges by a Nigerian federal court.

He was later arrested in the United Arab Emirate (UAE) and extradited to the U.K where he was eventually jailed for the aspects of the crimes committed in the U.K.

The ex-convict, who was believed to retain his political influence in Delta State while serving his jail term in the U.K., returned to Nigeria in February 2017 after completing his imprisonment.
Gallant troops of the Nigerian Army 112 Battalion deployed at Ajiri in Borno State on Sunday successful repelled a deadly Boko Haram attack on their location, PREMIUM TIMES can authoritatively report.

Military insiders familiar with the matter said the terrorists descended on the location held by Company E of the battalion in high number on several gun trucks and machine guns.

On arrival at the location at about 8:40 am, the Boko Haram terrorists launched a vicious attack on troops, who, fortunately, were on alert, our sources said.

The exchange of gunfire was so serious that the Nigerian soldiers had to retreat for a while to restrategize. But as soon as reinforcement poured in from the battalion headquarters not far away, a counter-attack was launched.

The Nigerian soldiers opened fire on the terrorists, killing an unconfirmed number of them and wounding several others. The remaining terrorists simply fled the location.

Unfortunately, the Nigerian troops lost one officer, a major (name withheld) and six members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) attached to that detachment.

As they fled, the Boko Haram terrorists made away with some weapons, include one anti-aircraft gun, 81 MM mortar and two AK 47 rifles belonging to the slain officer and a lance corporal.

Apart from stealing four Toyota Hilux vans belonging to the Army and Civilian JTF, the terrorists also burnt down nine houses.

The spokesperson for the Nigerian Army, Mohammed Yerima, confirmed the incident but claimed only two casualties were recorded.

The retreating terrorists went away with various degrees of gunshot injuries while the gallant troops are on their chase, Mr Yerima, a brigadier general, said in a statement on Monday.

In a separate incident on Saturday, personnel of the Nigerian Army 26 Task Force Brigade and 151 Battalion also successfully repelled an attack by another group of Boko Haram terrorists.

Sources familiar with the matter told PREMIUM TIMES the incident took place along the Ngurosoye- Bama Road. The troops were on patrol when they ran into an ambush mounted by the terrorists.

A gunfight then ensued which led to the killing of a member of the terrorist group while many others were injured.

Fortunately, not a single casualty was recorded on the side of the Nigerian fighting force.

These latest feats against the Boko Haram terrorists came a week after the Nigerian Army recorded the deaths of some of its personnel attached to its156 Battalion in Mainok.

Amongst the casualties recorded in that incident was the commander of the battalion, a lieutenant colonel, whose identity was not revealed by authorities.

Groups like Boko Haram and the Islamic States West Africa Province have continued to terrorise Nigerias Northeast geopolitical zone for more than a decade.

Troops of the Nigerian Armed forces have fought several battles and suffered many attacks as they work hard to fend off the terrorists and end the insurgency in the region.

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This has led to the death of thousands of civilians and soldiers and has displaced thousands of residents.

Despite repeated attacks on troops and vulnerable citizens, the government has continued to claim that the terrorists have been defeated.
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No fewer than 13 people, including children, have been killed in an attack by suspected herders in Tse Amgbem, a community in Gwer West Local Government Area of Benue State.

PREMIUM TIMES gathered that the attack, which occurred in the early hours of Monday, also left several people injured.

Aside the killing, the herders also burnt some houses in the community, sources told our correspondent.

This newspaper also obtained gory pictures of the victims, some of whom were shot and others macheted to death.

As a result of the attack, hundreds of the residents have been displaced and are taking refugee in Aondoana, close to Naka town.

The Chairperson of Gwer West local government, Grace Igbabon, confirmed the attack to PREMIUM TIMES.

She said some of the corpses have been deposited in the morgue.

The spokesperson of the police in Benue, Catherine Anene, could not be reached as of the time of reporting.

This newspaper had reported the recurring herders attack in different parts of Benue State.

Last Monday, seven deaths were recorded in one of the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps in Abagena village after assailants stormed the area.

The Governor of the state, Samuel Ortom, has repeatedly called on the federal government to take proactive steps as the attacks are becoming unbearable.
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A Nigerian Army personnel, Sanni Mohammed, has been arrested with two boxes containing about 2,000 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, those familiar with the matter have told PREMIUM TIMES.

The soldier, a lance corporal, was arrested at the Borno Express park in Maiduguri on Monday by officials of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) as he was about to board a bus to Nigerias capital, Abuja.

NURTW officials later handed the suspect to the police.

According to our sources, the soldier, attached to 198 Special Forces Battalion, had just been relieved from duties at Damasak town in Borno State, after recently obtaining a sick report.

When interrogated by the police, Mr Mohammed claimed he sourced the ammunition from a broken-down vehicle in his unit.

Other items found in his possession were a three-day excuse duty and two reports of hospital test. The army has since told the police that the soldier was not issued a pass or given medical leave to travel.

A military insider said the army is waiting on the police to hand over the soldier to it for a detailed investigation of the matter.

The spokesperson for the Borno State Police Command, Edet Okon, declined to comment for this story, saying he would speak to reporters based in Borno. His boss, Force Spokesperson Frank Mba neither responded to telephone calls nor replied to text messages.

The soldiers arrest came about a month after the Zamfara State Government said a Nigerian soldier and his girlfriend were caught supplying ammunition and military uniforms to armed bandits in the state.

Bashir Maru, the deputy chief of staff to Governor Bello Matawalle, said at a press conference on March 5 that the soldier was arrested by the military through community-driven intelligence.

He, however, did not provide more details of the alleged incident, saying the state government was waiting for the military authorities to do so.

Almost a month after, no further details have been provided on the matter.

The proliferation of illegal weapons has been identified as one of the major reasons for the widespread insecurity across Nigeria with many killed and kidnapped on daily basis.

Politicians have often been accused of being behind the proliferation of illegal firearms around the nation.

A former Head of State, Abdusalami Abubakar, said on Wednesday that there are over six million illegal weapons in circulation around the country.
Seventeen undergraduates in Nigeria who were kidnapped about a fortnight ago may be killed tomorrow unless the government acts to save them.

The kidnappers have already demonstrated their willingness to kill their victims having killed five of them some days ago.

The students were kidnapped from a private university, Greenfield University, in Kaduna, North-west Nigeria, on April 20.

The Kaduna governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has a policy of not negotiating with kidnappers and has insisted he would not go back on the policy to save the Greenfield students. Mr El-Rufai says such negotiations and payment of ransom only encourages the criminals. His stance has, however, not reduced cases of kidnap in Kaduna, one of the states most affected by the insecurity ravaging Nigeria.

Speaking in an interview with Voice of America (VOA) Hausa service on Monday, the leader of the kidnappers, Sani Jalingo, also known as Baleri, said unless the government pays a ransom of N100 million and 10 brand new Honda motorcycles, the government should come with a truck to evacuate the bodies of the students on Tuesday.

Mr Jalingo asked Governor El-Rufai to take the warning seriously as his group is determined to carry out its threat.

During the audio interview, Mr Baleri said the families of the students have paid N55 million as ransom but his group used the N55 million to feed the students.

We used it to feed them, he said.

We also heard from the Kaduna State Governor El-Rufai boasting that he will not pay ransom to bandits to purchase additional arms. Let me tell him what we are doing here is to show the world that Nigerian government has failed it people and are not in control. We are not scared, it is either they pay the ransom or we eliminate the 17 students.

Mr Jalingo said the victims in their custody include 17 girls and two boys one of which is the grandson of the late Emir of Zazzau, Shehu Idris. Of the 19, 17 of them are believed to be students of the university while the identity of the remaining two could not be ascertained as at press time.

Two of the abducted students spoke to the VOA during the interview. They appealed to the government and their parents to take the threats seriously.

They mean what they say because they have already killed some of us, Idris, one of the students, said.

Another student, Abigail Usman, made the same appeal to the government and Nigerians to come to their rescue.

They took our colleagues and killed them; five of them. If they dont get the money, they will kill us all, she said.

The Kidnap

Armed bandits attacked the university situated along Kaduna-Abuja road on April 20, kidnapping 22 students.

A few days after, they dumped the bodies of three of the students in a location in the state. Another two bodies were found days later.

READ ALSO: Three of the abducted Kaduna university students killed

The Kaduna State police spokesperson, Mohammed Jalige, did not answer calls put to him on what the police are doing to ensure the students are not killed and are freed. Also, calls to the states Commissioner of Internal Security, Samuel Aruwan, did not go through as of the time of this report.

Apart from the kidnapped Greenfield students, 30 students of the college of forestry are still being held by a separate set of bandits in Kaduna. They were kidnapped in March.

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The Akwa Ibom State Government has condemned the rape and killing of a 26-year-old female job-seeker in the state.

The victim, Iniubong Umoren, a philosophy graduate of the University of Uyo, was lured out of her home in Uyo on Thursday by her suspected killer, Uduak Akpan, with a promise that there was a job waiting for her.

Her attacker(s) buried her body in a shallow grave in his fathers compound after she was raped and killed.

The police in Akwa Ibom State arrested the suspect, described as a serial rapist. He is said to have confessed to the rape and the killing of Ms Umoren.

Its heart wrenching  Akwa Ibom government

The Akwa Ibom State Government on Monday said it was saddened by the killing of Ms Umoren.

(It) is heart wrenching and most disturbing considering the age of the persons involved, the Commissioner for Information in the state, Ini Ememobong, said in a statement.

Mr Ememobong said Governor Udom Emmanuel has communicated to the Police hierarchy in the state, his desire for the full administration of justice to the culprit and all persons involved in this crime.

This is the least that will be acceptable, he added.

We condemn in totality the gruesome acts that led to the loss of the life of an innocent young woman, whose sincere desire was to earn a decent living. Our state must remain a safe location for all peace loving and law abiding citizens at all times.

We commiserate with the deceased family on this very painful loss and pray God to comfort them, the statement stated.

A House of Representatives member, Onofiok Luke, has similarly called for justice for the victim.

I have been following the trend of events through social media updates concerning the abduction of a young and promising Akwa Ibom daughter, Miss Iniubong Umoren.

As reports had indicated the awareness of the Nigerian Police, I was just hopeful about her safety and rescue. However, waking up to the sad news of her murder this morning, I prayed it was not true until the statement by the police confirmed her murder. This is so heartbreaking, said Mr Luke who represents Etinan Federal Constituency, Akwa Ibom State.

Sad and heartbreaking as it is, I join all sympathisers to pray that God grants her family the courage to face and pull through such a trying time.

I wish to use this medium to commend security agencies for their response and the eventual arrest of the culprit and I lend my voice strongly in the demand for justice for the murdered young girl and urge the relevant authorities to ensure the full wrath of the law is meted on the culprit.

The lawmaker commended the media and the youth who deployed Internet technology to help in unmasking the suspect and his eventual arrest.

This vindicates those who at all times call for liberalisation rather than muzzling up the Press. Free Press, with necessary regulations will augur well for our kind of society bedevilled by numerous challenges.

Finally, let me add that collectively as leaders, we owe it to every Nigerian and Akwa Ibomite, the collective responsibility of providing them with an enabling environment to actualise their dreams, yearnings and aspirations, he added.

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The police in Ghana have said they are investigating an alleged gathering by Nigerian pastor, Chris Oyakhilomes Christ Embassy Church at Trade Fair Centre, Accra, last Friday, in flagrant disregard of COVID-19 protocols.

Trending videos of the alleged gathering, dubbed Pneumatic Night show a non-mask-wearing mass crowd, screaming, chanting, and dancing to the evangelism of non-mask-wearing leaders.

The event has attracted wide condemnation from the general public with a call from a pressure group, Occupy Ghana, calling for a probe.

The police said the gathering puts the entire country at risk of spreading COVID-19, adding that they did not provide security for the said event.

They made the news public in a press statement on their official Twitter handle on Sunday.

putting the entire country at risk of spreading COVID-19. The Police did not provide security for the said event and warns that those who breached the law will face consequences. Please read details from the attached. pic.twitter.com/pJohHms29f  Ghana Police Service (@GhPoliceService) May 2, 2021

The statement, signed by the police spokesperson, Sheilla Kessie Abayie-Buckman, a superintendent of police, read, The police are investigating an alleged gathering by youths of the Christ Embassy Church at the Fantasy Dome, Trade Fair Center, Accra on Friday in flagrant disregard of COVID-19 protocols.

Trending videos of the alleged gathering dubbed Pneumatic Night show a non-mask-wearing crowd, screaming, chanting, and dancing to the evangelism of non-mask-wearing leaders; putting the entire country at risk of spreading COVID-19.

The police did not provide security for the said event. The organisers did not give notice of the event to any police officer or station. The event, advertised as a church service which ordinarily did not require notice under the Public Order Act, was organised at the blind side of the police.

Police have since Sunday morning locked up the Fantasy Dome and have started questioning leaders of the church and management of the Fantasy Dome about the event. Any person found culpable will be arrested and duly prosecuted.

They also added that police officers laid surveillance at the Christ Embassy Service Center at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) where a similar programme had been advertised to hold.

The programme, they say, was ,however, held with all COVID-19 protocols being observed.

It also warned that persons found culpable in the investigation would be prosecuted accordingly.

Repeat offender

This is the third time in 2021 that Mr Oyakhilome s church will be found guilty of breaching tCOVID-19 safety protocols outside the shores of Nigeria.

A month ago, Mr Oyakhilomes religious TV channel, Loveworld, was sanctioned by The Office of Communications in the United Kingdom (Ofcom) for spreading misinformation about the COVID-19.

Ofcom, in a statement on its official Twitter page, said the station was fined 125,000 (N65.6m) for breaching the countrys broadcasting code by disseminating misinformation on COVID-19.

On December 1, 2020, Loveworld aired a 29-hour programme called the Global Day of Prayer, during which claims were made about the COVID-19, which has so far killed thousands across the globe.

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According to the agency, these claims included the notion that the outbreak was planned, that the sinister vaccine can be used to implant nanochips that can control and cause harm to members of the public and the debunked theory that the virus was somehow caused by 5G.

The agency said it was unfortunate that the station could continue to spread such information despite previous warnings.

Mr Oyakhilome, who heads Christ Embassy church headquartered in Lagos, has in the last year encouraged his members to ignore COVID-19 protocols.
The National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Tinubu, has called on those clamouring for secession to jettison such an idea.

Speaking at the Special Ramadan Prayer Tafsir (Lecture) for Lagos State and Nigeria, held at the Lagos House, Marina on Sunday, Mr Tinubu said the country was better together than seperated.

He said the war drums some people were beating would result in the disintegration of the country like Sudan and Iraq.

According to him, Nigeria is yet to recover from the effect of the civil war, hence, cannot afford to experience another war.

For clamouring for war, God will not allow Nigeria to experience war. If we say Nigeria should seperate, people should remember what war caused in Sudan and Iraq. Such war does not end on time. We are yet to recover from the civil war.

We are better together. I have nowhere I am going. Whoever has experienced war in the past will not pray for such. Nigeria will not seperate, its not acceptable to us. Our prayers is for prosperity and more wealth for the country, he said.

Mr Tinubu also commended the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his Deputy, Obafemi Hamzat, for their achievements in the state.

He said that the state had witnessed massive developments since the administration of Mr Sanwo-Olu came on board and expressed satisfaction with their performance.

In his goodwill message, Governor Sanwo-Olu promised to fulfill his campaign promises and deliver on the dividends of democracy. He said the state government was in the process of installing 2,000 cameras across the state for security surveillance.

He said the proposed last mile buses, which his administration would unveil this month (May), would eradicate the menace of Okada riders.

According to him, more funds will be deployed into the state Security Trust Fund to empower police and other security operatives, while technology will be deployed around the state.

The National Missioner, Ansaru-deen Society of Nigeria, Abdul-rahman Ahmad, also called on those clamouring for the country to divide to have a rethink.

Mr Ahmad said that though insecurity was on the increase, but with constant prayers, change of thoughts and characters by Nigerians, the country would come out of it

The Islamic cleric encouraged all Nigerians to buy made in Nigeria products to strengthen the naira and the economy.

He urged the Lagos State Government to make examples of lawless commercial motorcyclists, popularly called Okada riders, for peace and security in Lagos.

Mr Ahmad condemned the kidnappings in many parts of the country and advised government to implement the laws on insecurity as it affects development.

For those clamouring to divide the country, maybe you should have a rethink. Ask yourself; where will this clamour for so called independence lead us? We should reinvent this country. Nigeria will be great.

Today are in hard times, these are uncertain times. This is the time men are supposed to be seperated from boys. This is the time that regions need to think out of the box.

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We are insecure, we are unsure, there is hunger, there is anger and confusion in the land. This is the time we need divine intervention. If we gather and pray till 2023, Allah will not listen to us till we do some things.

This is the time action is required, backed by deep thoughts for today and our tomorrow. We have often blamed leaders but we have to choose the kind of leaders we deserve. Everywhere is unsafe even the police station is not safe. We need to rejig, he said.

The event was attended by frontline Islamic clerics from all local government areas in the state and the General Officer Commanding 81 Division of the Nigerian Army, Abubakar Garba; the former National Chairman of the APC, Bisi Akande; Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila; business mogul, Aliko Dangote; among others.

Meanwhile, the Tinubu Support Organisation (TSO) on Sunday held a special prayer session for peace and unity to reign in the country.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the prayer session and Ramadan lecture took place at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.

The Director-General of the organisation, Aminu Suleiman, said the prayer session was also held for the All Progressives Congress National Leader, Mr Tinubu, because of his compassionate nature.

Mr Suleiman said that many who knew and appreciated the good things Mr Tinubu had done in Lagos wanted him to replicate the same at the national level.

We need someone like him to rule this country, he has done it in Lagos, that is why we are praying for him; let God give him the chance to come and rule this country. He has feeling for human being, he said.

Mr Suleiman said that there was the need to maintain peace and unity as the way to progress in the country

In his remarks, the Lagos State Commissoner for Home Affairs, Anofiu Elegushi, said that the prayers for peace and security in the country were very important.

Mr Elegushi said that it was also imperative for Muslim faithful to pray for a good leader ahead of the 2023 election.

Really, we are praying for security, for peace but at the same time, we must pray for us to have a good leader as the president of this country.

(NAN)
The company is recruiting for a number of executive positions with Phil Thick appointed as a non-executive director and Stuart Tarrant as chief financial officer.

The new appointments will enhance the capacity of the board and management team.

( ) ( ) (FRA:3MW) has appointed two well-credentialed professionals who will enhance the capacity of its board and management team.

This comes as the company gains considerable momentum with its lithium chemicals strategy to serve the battery industry.

The appointments of Phil Thick as a non-executive director and Stuart Tarrant as chief financial officer coincide with the company recruiting for several executive positions.

Gaining momentum

Lithium Australia is rapidly advancing projects to cater for:

A definitive feasibility study on the manufacture of lithium Ferro phosphate (LFP) cathode powder;

Pilot testing of LieNA (hydrometallurgical recovery of lithium from spodumene and direct feed to LFP production);

A pre-feasibility study on the LieNA process;

Volume increase of spent batteries to be recycled by subsidiary Envirostream Australia Pty Ltd as the national battery stewardship scheme is implemented; and

Anticipated sales increases through 50% owned Soluna Australia (lithium ion-based energy storage systems).

Welcomed to the team

Lithium Australia MD Adrian Griffin said: "Lithium Australia welcomes Phil Thick and Stuart Tarrant to the team.

Phil brings a wealth of knowledge in lithium chemicals and project implementation.

His experience and management skills will reinforce the boards capacity to deliver our planned outcomes.

Stuart has an outstanding track record in financial and capital management at the top end of the mining industry.

His determination will be invaluable as we advance our projects towards commercialisation."

Phil Thick experience

Phil Thick has more than 30 years of senior executive experience in oil and gas, mining and chemical processing in large multinational companies, smaller ASX-listed companies and privately-owned companies.

In addition, he has extensive experience on many boards in non-executive director roles and has chaired many of those boards for extended periods.

Thick had a 20-year career with Shell in Australia and overseas, and for the last three years was a downstream director on the board of Shell Australia.

This was followed by five years as a director and CEO of Coogee Chemicals and then four years as CEO of .

For the past 4-and-a-half years Thick headed up Tianqi Lithium Australia, a subsidiary of Tianqi Lithium Corp out of China, one of the worlds largest lithium companies.

He also chairs the boards of the Chamber of Arts and Culture WA and Perth Symphony Orchestra.

Stuart Tarrant experience

Stuart Tarrant is a senior finance professional with more than 20 years of experience, most of which has been gained in rapidly growing or changing environments.

He has worked within a range of industries including mineral extraction, mineral exploration, financial institutions and agribusiness.

Tarrants most recent role was as chief financial officer at Danakali Limited ( ) which is developing the world-class Colluli Potash Project in Eritrea, East Africa.

Before Danakali, he held roles with BHP, Leighton Contractors and Great Southern Limited as well as consulting to small and mid-sized enterprises.

Tarrant brings specific expertise in fundraising, strategic analysis, governance and compliance with a focus on value creation.

Barry Woodhouse will continue as company secretary.
The Honeywell Group has said that it is servicing loan facilities obtained from First Bank of Nigeria Limited and other financial institutions across the country.

The company in a statement on Sunday said like most companies, it utilises its own equity and borrows from banks and other financial institutions to carry out its operations.

The company is reacting to the recent furore over the board composition of First Bank and credit facility obtained from the bank.

PREMIUM TIMES reported how the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) expressed concern that First Bank has not complied with regulatory directives to divest its interest in Honeywell Flour Mills despite several reminders. The apex bank also expressed worry over the need to restructure credit facility to the company.

In the midst of the furore, the Chairman of the Honeywell Group, Oba Otudeko, was removed as the Chairman of FBN Holdings Plc, the parent company of First Bank Nigeria Limited.

In the same vein, Ibukun Awosika was also removed from office as chair of First Bank, alongside all the board members of the bank.

The decision, the regulator said, was made to protect 31 million customers, minority shareholders of First Bank of Nigeria Ltd.

The CBN also announced the immediate appointment of Tunde Hassan-Odukale as Chairman of the bank. Mr Hassan-Odukale, until his appointment, was the Managing Director of Leadway Assurance Company.

Track record

Honeywell Group in its reaction said it has a strong track record of mutually beneficial successes with its local and international financiers based on honouring obligations and delivering returns to all shareholders.

The statement said since 1972, Honeywell Group and First Bank of Nigeria have had a professional business relationship that preceded its investment in the bank over a decade later.

It said the companys relationship with First Bank has always been professional, at arms length and in accordance with all regulatory and industry practices and norms. The credit facilities accessed from First Bank and other banks were granted after due negotiations, with the necessary documentation and in line with regulatory policies and industry standards, the statement said.

It added that the Honeywell Group has serviced all its credit facilities in line with the terms agreed with First Bank and at no point has any of these facilities been non-performing.

The company said in 2015, First Bank under the directive of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), drew its attention to a 2004 circular (BSD/9/2004) which required that insider related facilities must not exceed 10 percent of paid-up share capital.

It said based on this directive, the Honeywell Group subsequently entered negotiations with the bank to agree an appropriate repayment structure and the final negotiated position was duly approved by the CBN, adding that it is important to note that the facilities have been performing from inception and to date.

The company said in accordance with agreed terms, its facilities with First Bank are adequately secured with collaterals in place at over 170% of Forced Sales Value and 230% at Open Market Value.

It said the Honeywell Group has continued to meet all its obligations on its facilities with First Bank according to agreed terms and has reduced its exposure by nearly 30% in 2.5 years.

The facilities were charged at market rates and the lender continues to earn significant interest therefrom, the statement said.

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The appalling and astonishing revelation is that some people planted a busty amputee selling bottled water in the streets of Oshodi, hoping to get her gut-wrenching image on social media to use it to swindle Nigerians for personal gains. They succeeded and were in the process of sharing the loot when the bubble burst.

It was a compelling story  one that showcases the best and worst in us. The story calls for genuine sober reflection on our collective consciousness and the need for a social renaissance in relation to our cherished ethical and moral values as a society.

In 2006, an 11-year-old girl and her parents decided to travel to their hometown of Ayingba in Kogi State to spend the Christmas holiday. As typical with festive seasons, this young woman was filled with gladness, eagerness, and expectation to meet friends and relations she had not seen for a long while. Then fate dealt her a cruel hand when the vehicle they were travelling in had a fatal accident, which claimed the lives of her parents and every other passenger on board.

The young lady survived, but with a badly bruised right leg that was later amputated. Life suddenly changed for the worse for this nascent orphan. With no one to cater for her school fees, she dropped out of school in JSS 3. Her grandmother stepped in and sought to provide some solace for her traumatised grandchild. The older woman took custody of the younger one, and for the next nine years, the woman tried her best to provide for the young lady.

When she turned 20, her grandmother felt she was ripe for marriage and gave her away in matrimony to a man who professed love for her. The young lady thought that she had finally found some respite in life for the first time, since the death of her parents.

Unfortunately for her, the marriage quickly turned into a painful adventure, another gruelling chapter in the life of a young woman ill-treated by fate. The man got her pregnant and later denied being the father of her unborn baby. A good Samaritan later raised half a million naira for her to start a business, to take care of herself, her baby and grandmother. Her supposed husband managed to manipulate her and collect her ATM card, with which he cleared all the money in her account, leaving her penniless.

The young woman with one leg was frustrated and stranded. Her desire to eke a living saw her relocate to the commercial city of Onitsha in Anambra State, later to Asaba and then Lagos, respectively. She caught a pathetic sight  one hand clutching the wooden stick that enabled her to walk in the absence of her amputated leg and the other one holding the basin that contained her ware. The physically challenged girl hawked bottled water and was one of those who prayed daily for traffic gridlocks, so that she could sell her wares. She was later doing brisk business selling bottled water from street to street in the Oshodi area.

An amputee wearing a singlet with the apt philosophical inscription, No Pain, No Gain, and hawking pure water in the streets of Lagos would always draw public attention, even in a society battling with acute insecurity, hunger, and anger. As such, the moment one Mr Ibitoye Ayodele Adeniyi met this remarkable lady hawking water under the burning sun in Oshodi, took her picture and posted it on his Facebook page, it naturally went viral. And when Nigerians heard that the physically challenged but mentally tough lady was an amputated orphan with a two-year-old baby and an aged grandmother to take care of, her story became the talk of the town.

The response of Nigerians was heartwarming, as cash and donations in kind came in from all angles. A doyens of Nigerian journalism and a one of the founders of the once-revered Newswatch magazine, Ray Ekpu, wrote a beautiful piece in The Guardian. He portrayed it as a story of the triumph of the persistent human spirit and celebration of the impressive humanity of Nigerians.

this is supposed to be the story of Mary Daniel  a narrative that would make a great screenplay  one so dramatic that good directors and actors could use it to win the Oscars. Rags to riches stories teach us that no condition is permanent and that there is always hope for those who dare to succeed.

Super Eagles and Napoli Forward, Victor Osimhen, who finished as a top scorer in the recently concluded 2020 AFCON qualification campaign, with five goals and five assists from five games, showered her with money to support her business endeavours. Mr. Victor Anukam of Purple Prosthetics promised to give her a limb. Imo politician, Uche Nwosu, splashed N1 million on her. At a time, the inflows into her account got to N25 million. Through the Office of Civic Engagement, Lagos State government offered her accommodation and other forms of assistance. Even though she was not a citizen of Lagos, the state government adopted her as its own.

Her 27th birthday came at the peak of time, and she celebrated it lavishly with her family and friends. Ceoluminee, an award-winning celebrity fashion stylist, styled the amputee on her birthday for a photoshoot, and Image maker, Samuel Olatunji, shared her amazing, transformed pictures. She was attired in a beautiful black dress with gold accessories in one of the pictures and wore a wig packed into a ponytail with a gold hair clip. In another picture, she wore a red dress, and had a silver tiara on her head.

The lady was happy at her makeover and had a massive smile on her face. The fantastic transformation enthralled Nigerians, and her before and after images were widely shared and celebrated in the Nigerian social media space.

This is the story of Mary Daniel. Or rather, this is supposed to be the story of Mary Daniel  a narrative that would make a great screenplay  one so dramatic that good directors and actors could use it to win the Oscars. Rags to riches stories teach us that no condition is permanent and that there is always hope for those who dare to succeed.

But then the bubble somehow burst. It started with people discovering that Mary Daniels was a congenital amputation, as she had lost her leg from birth and not through an accident. Later, people found out that she is not an orphan; her father is still alive. And although her mother is late, her death in 2012 was from natural causes and not through an accident. It means that the fatal accident, which she claimed took the lives of her parents and all the other passengers in a vehicle and led to the amputation of one of her legs, never happened. Her real name is not even Mary Daniel but Ojonuwa Onu. And it was very uncharitable for her to claim that her grandmother married her off to a man at the age of 20. According to a report in TheCable, an aunt of hers stated that after she fled to Onitsha and then Asaba, there were reports that she was living an unwholesome life, and it was in the cause of her dalliances that she got pregnant.

The appalling and astonishing revelation is that some people planted a busty amputee selling bottled water in the streets of Oshodi, hoping to get her gut-wrenching image on social media to use it to swindle Nigerians for personal gains. They succeeded and were in the process of sharing the loot when the bubble burst.

So how do Nigerians begin to recover from this? How do we come to terms with the unconscionable attempt to use a physically challenged woman to exploit our collective kindness and empathy?

The Mary Daniel saga shows how low our moral values have fallen in Nigeria. It is sad to imagine that some dubious elements came across a single mother amputee and what came to their mind was how they could use her to make money for themselves. Did they consider the fate of those with genuine causes, who would come out in future, and who no one would believe due to the experience of Nigerians in the hands of a fake Mary Daniel?

The exposition of her lies does not make Mary Daniel less physically challenged and does not remove the fact that she is a young single mother in need of help. For this reason alone, she should be allowed to enjoy the funds already raised for her. Still, there should be consistent supervision of her conduct and activities

For the young woman herself, to agree to be part of an elaborate scam to fleece Nigerians of both their money and the sanctity of their humanity is appalling. Being a single mother and an amputee is already a touching story.

But to add the unholy spice of egregious falsehood and wicked lies, portrays a dark heart, a total absence of morality and acquiescence to avarice. It takes a vicious heart to proclaim that ones father is dead, when he is still alive, and to distort the circumstances of ones mothers demise.

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I am fully in support of the Lagos State governments handing her over to the Kogi State representatives in Lagos and involving the police in the process. These actions will ensure that no kobo from the collective sweat of kind-hearted Nigerians gets into the hands of the unscrupulous elements who used Mary Daniel to swindle Nigerians, financially and emotionally. They should go further to expose these persons, so that Nigerians would know the identity of these dregs of the society. They should be accorded the shame and opprobrium they deserve for their infamy.

The exposition of her lies does not make Mary Daniel less physically challenged and does not remove the fact that she is a young single mother in need of help. For this reason alone, she should be allowed to enjoy the funds already raised for her. Still, there should be consistent supervision of her conduct and activities, to ensure that she is not destroyed by the vicious vices usually associated with lies and deceit, and the kind of distasteful life attributed to her by her aunt.

She has already been shamed, so she can no longer be a role model, even in pretence. What remains is that Nigerians should regard the tragedy of her story as an isolated incident and not a reflection of who we are as a people. We should not use Mary Daniel to judge the next person in need that seeks our collective help. Mary Daniel is a creation of social media, which has proven to be a great force for good and evil. We must be eternally vigilant to ensure that this powerful medium is mainly used by many for good.

However, many Nigerian are poor and desperate. We should explore the socio-economic circumstances that make some Nigerians sink so low morally to defraud society and exploit the milk of human kindness of people in a country already scorched by insecurity and poverty. Increasingly, we live in a country where anything goes, and the end justifies the means. We have become narcotised to images and stories of sufferings, killings, crimes, and corruption, that nothing shocks us anymore.

It is now all about survival. And in the altar of survival, people have sacrificed our cherished core social values of truth, justice, love, and ubuntu. On the rare occasions that Nigerians seek to come out en mass to support one of us undergoing severe hardship due to ill-fate, people like Mary Daniel and her cohorts make it difficult for them. They would likely have double minds and question the genuineness of such claims in the future.

Dakuku Peterside is a policy and leadership expert.
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Is it proper and or reasonable for the police to wait for 48 hours before acting on the report of missing persons at a time the country is being held by the jugular by kidnappers, killer herdsmen, Boko Haram and sundry sophisticated criminals?

Angela Ihentuges Case

It was in 2003 and I was a young reporter in Owerri, Imo State, when I stumbled on a story about a young woman who had disappeared somewhere in Ehime Mbano Local Government Area.

Her name was Angela Ihentuge . I have found it difficult to forget her name because of how her story changed the trajectory of my life as a reporter till today.

I was a correspondent with The PUNCH newspaper at the time and my office was at Rotibi Street, Owerri.

I got to know about Angelas story from NITEL office where I went to fax my story to Lagos.

The Internet wasnt available, at least for the use of the media in Nigeria at the time.

Someone was casually discussing the issue of a missing woman while waiting for his turn to fax a message and the line of those waiting for their turn was very long.

Immediately I was able to fax my report, I went back to one of the men still in the line and got information about the village and the name of the missing woman and went straight to the motor park and left for the village.

I met the aged parents and siblings of Angela and they told me that they had found their sisters remains in a bush path leading to their village.

The family told me Angela was seven-month pregnant when she disappeared and I was taken to where her body was dumped.

She was naked, her private part was expertly cropped out, her right breast cut off, her right toes cut off, her right eye removed, her right index finger cut off and her tongue cut from the mouth. The foetus was also removed from her womb.

I asked if they had reported the matter to the police and they answered in the affirmative.

The police didnt take any action but told the family they had commenced investigation.

I took pictures of the decapitated body and left for her husbands village.

From leads I got, I went to where Angela had lived with her husband and quietly interviewed the neighbours. What I got was shocking.

I learnt Angela actually went out with her hubby on the evening she disappeared but the husband later said she went out alone to see her elder sister in another community.

It was towards the 2003 general election and Angela was killed and her parts harvested for election rituals.

When I published the first part of the report, the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to Governor Achike Udenwa, one Emelumba, called and warned me to stop investigating the story.

In fact, I learnt he called my editor, who was then Azu Ishiekwene and complained about my story.

I was told that the Imo State Government had said the story was false and the editor asked me to show evidence that Angela was killed for rituals.

I sent the pictures I had taken and copies of the recorded interviews I had with neighbours and relatives of Angela to Lagos through DHL, and the next day, PUNCH led with the second part of my investigation and the editor wrote that the paper stood with me on the report. She was naked, her private part was expertly cropped out, her right breast cut off, her right toes cut off, her right eye removed, her right index finger cut off and her tongue cut from the mouth. The foetus was also removed from her womb. Emelumba called again and threatened me for always painting the State bad. The family of Angela were asked not to talk to me again and they were threatened too.

The police arrested the wrong suspects and a few weeks later, gunmen invaded my home at Naze Bus Stop 4.

God took me away from the compound, even when it was surrounded by people sent to kill me.

I dont think the killers of Angela were made to face the wrath of the law till date.

But those who blocked her story from being told are still in government in Imo State till today.

Iniobong Umorens Case

About three days ago, someone drew my attention to a post about a missing young woman, Iniobong Umoren , and pleaded that I use my contacts to help find her.

I asked for the contacts of her close family members and the phone number of the young man who was said to have invited her for an interview.

When I tried to put out a story about her disappearance, I found out that it was already trending on Facebook and Twitter.

But I was shocked to learn that the Akwa Ibom State Police command also received a report on the missing girl but would not take action allegedly because it was not up to 48 hours after she went missing.

I hope it is not true that the police turned down the family of Miss Umoren when they approached them with information and clear evidence, including the last recorded call wherein she was said to be screaming before her line went dead.

It would be such a shocking story that in the 21st century, the police would insist on waiting for 48 hours before taking action to save the life of a citizen who was in distress.

Like many have indicated in the many posts on social media, Iniobong went in search of a job so she could earn a decent living, and it is not a crime to do so.

She kept her siblings and friends informed of her movements, so that no one would be left in any doubt about her whereabouts and the reason for her going to meet a man along Airport Road, Uyo.

Apparently, when she found out she had walked into a trap, she called her sister. She was screaming to pass a message to her sister that her life was in danger.

The sister didnt waste time in reaching out to the public through the instrument of the social media. She called for help immediately.

The family, I also learnt, made a report to the police with the hope they would swing into action to save the life of their sister.

I am not sure what the police did when they received the information but I know that Nigerians from every part of the country pushed Iniobongs story so much that it trended with the hope she would be found and rescued alive. Alas!

Just like everything in Nigeria thats walking on its head, the case of Iniobong isnt any exception.

Apparently, shortly after she made the last frantic attempt at saving her life by calling her sister, the 20 year-old monster who had tricked her to come for a job interview with the motive of raping, killing and harvesting her parts, had accomplished his motive. Why did the police retrieve the mangled body of Iniobong and deposit it in a morgue several hours before informing her badly traumatised siblings and relations? But there are many questions to ask and I wish we could get all the answers. When did the police get information about Iniobongs disappearance and when did they swing into action to rescue her?

Is it true that the same boy (monster) had lured other persons to his place for fake jobs and some escaped or got insulted when they failed to walk into his trap?

Is it proper and or reasonable for the police to wait for 48 hours before acting on the report of missing persons at a time the country is being held by the jugular by kidnappers, killer herdsmen, Boko Haram and sundry sophisticated criminals?

Why did the police retrieve the mangled body of Iniobong and deposit it in a morgue several hours before informing her badly traumatised siblings and relations?

Did the suspected killer confessed to the chairman of Uruan Local Government Area about what he had done to the girl?

If he had indeed confessed, why did the chairman allow him to flee and not hand him over to the police, and tell members of Iniobongs family and the media about what had happened?

Why did it take the police several hours to tell members of Iniobongs family about what happened to her?

Is it true that some of Iniobongs body parts are missing, a possible indication that they might have been harvested for rituals?

Whats the position of the government in this highly despicable act, which has caused the State to trend for the wrong reason?

Far from it, I am not and cannot blame the government for what has happened, unlike what happened to me in Imo when one Emelumba was CPS.

If theres anything, Governor Udom Emmanuel has not encouraged plotical brigandage in the State. However, unemployment is a serious issue and the government knows about it.

But the government and the police must take appropriate action to ensure justice for Iniobong and her family.

It will be very unfortunate for the police to try in anyway to take shortcuts and or take actions that would further erode public confidence in them.

It will also be very insensitive for anyone to blame the poor girl for going to look for a job that resulted in her death.

Social media analysts and experts should respect the dead and allow her family to mourn her in peace.

Iniobong must not be another statistic of the institutional failures in Nigeria.

Justice for her isnt too much to ask.

Enough .
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The Nigerian military says soldiers serving in Plateau and Kaduna States under Operation Safe Haven have rescued a student, Kelvin Eze, who was kidnapped at Kings College, Gana Ropp in Barkin Ladi, Plateau State.

Mr Eze was kidnapped on April 29 by gunmen at the school.

The spokesperson of Operation Safe Haven, Ibrahim Shitu, said Mr Eze was resued on Saturday unhurt.

He added that no ransom was paid for his release. He said the student has been reunited with other students of the college.

Troops of Operation Safe Haven on Saturday, May 1, 2021, around 8.35pm rescued a student of Kings College, Mr Kelvin Eze who was kidnapped by bandits on April 29, 2021.

This was achieved through the sustained search and rescue operation by the troops, without payment of ransom. The rescued student who is hale and hearty has since been reunited with other students in the college.

The student pastor was abducted at Kings College run by the Calvary International Ministry, also known as CAPRO, in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of the state.
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It was such a touching moment in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, as several journalists who gathered in the state, on Monday, for the annual World Press Freedom Day celebration paused to observe a minute silence for Iniubong Umoren, the 26-year-old female job-seeker who was raped and killed by a man who lured her with a job offer.

Among the dignitaries at the ceremony was the Commissioner for Information in the state, Ini Ememobong, who informed the journalists that Governor Udom Emmanuel has directed a government delegation to pay condolence visit to the family of the slain woman.

The government delegation would be led by the Secretary to the Akwa Ibom State Government, Emmanuel Ekuwem, Mr Ememobong said.

The governor has communicated with the police leadership in the state, he is determined to ensure that justice runs its full course in the matter, he said.

The commissioner said the slain woman did nothing wrong to go out in search of a job to take care of herself, while waiting for when she would participate in the mandatory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) programme. The person who raped her and took her life at such a young age had an evil mindset, he said.

In his message on the World Press Freedom Day, Mr Ememobong advised journalists to adhere to professional ethics and integrity, and not use their medium advance selfish interest whether for themselves or for politicians.

Undeclared war in Nigeria

In his address, the Chair of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Akwa Ibom State Council, Amos Etuk, talked about the current security challenges in the country and the role expected of journalists.

We are in an undeclared war, he said.

As Journalists, we must realise that our work carries enormous weight. We are national opinion moulders and agenda setters. These are responsibilities that we cannot toy with. The nation is currently experiencing a plethora of challenges; we are in an undeclared war and this situation tasks our patriotism and professionalism.

If information must be for public good, then we must utilise our strength to douse growing tension in our land. We must use the instrumentality of journalism to promote national unity and cohesion in the face of growing spate of hate speech and incendiary discourse pervading our national space.

As we navigate the unfortunate situation of insecurity, worsening economic and social conditions, we must remain courageous to report, factually and truthfully. We must resist the temptation to become part of the malaise by becoming overtly emotional and pandering to our own primordial sentiments and emotions in our reports.

Our journalism must be for public good; a public good to inform, educate and yes, entertain in these very trying times.

We must rekindle hope in our countrys ability to rise above the current dwindling situation we are facing and point the direction to progress in a nation desperately in need of patriotic leadership and citizenship, Mr Etuk said.

Other dignitaries present at the ceremony included the Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Moses Ekpo, who was represented by his media aide, Ekikere Umoh, the Secretary to the Akwa Ibom Government, Mr Ekuwem, and a former commissioner for Environment and Petroleum Resources in the state, Ekong Sampson.
Controversial Catholic priest, Ejike Mbaka, who has fallen out with the President Muhammadu Buhari administration, has responded to the accusation by Nigerias presidency that he was a disgruntled contract-seeker.

A presidential spokesperson, Garba Shehu, took on Mr Mbaka after the priest called for the presidents impeachment over the rising insecurity in the country.

Mr Mbaka, in a video clip posted on the Punch Facebook page, did not deny discussing the contract award with the administration officials, but said he did it with the intention of helping to find a solution to Nigerias security challenges.

The video was taken during a Catholic Mass, apparently, in Enugu. The date in which it was taken is, however, uncertain.

In one breath, the priest appeared to be saying that the accusation itself, which some people consider as damaging, was a vindication to his person. In another breath, he appeared irked by it.

May God bless you for telling everybody that you have not given me contracts, Mr Mbaka said.

He talked about the men whom he wanted the contract awarded to.

These are the three men we brought that will handle insecurity for the country, they have the gadgets, they have the facilities.

That was during the first (term of the) administration. And they said they would help them in conquering insecurity, they have the platform to end the insecurity in this country in under one month. Under Abba kyari. I just handed them over to the government people.

I dont even know these people, they just came to Enugu and asked if I can help them reach the government, Mr Mbaka said.

The priest said the people he presented to the government for the contract award have the resources to revive oil infrastructures in Nigeria and make the oil industry work for the good of the Nigerian government and people.

He likened the presidential spokesperson, Mr Shehu, to crocodile who wants to eat the fishes in the fish pond.

But God is ready for them, he said.

Am I begging them? Do they know how many people I feed? As I said, I put my hands on the altar and told everybody I dont have their number.

Do they know how many widows I am paying for their house rents? Do they know how many students I am paying for their school fees, home and abroad?

If a single individual, a priest for that matter, who doesnt have a single child, a biological child, is doing this, then the federal government should do more.

The priest said the accusation against him was childish and laughable, and that he was not in any way feeling discouraged.

He said the accusation was a shame to Mr Shehu and the people he (Shehu) is representing.

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I have been waiting for them to challenge any of the things I have said  whether there is insecurity in Nigeria or not, whether there are good hospitals in the country or not.

The money they are packing for elections, if they use it to build industries shant our youths have places to work?

Why I have been silent is because I have been waiting for them to change, until God said speak.
The All Progressives Congress (APC), Lagos State chapter, has released guidelines for aspirants contesting on its platform for Chairmanship, Vice Chairmanship, and Councillorship positions in the July 24 Local Government election.

The partys Caretaker Committee Chair and the Caretaker Committee Secretary, Tunde Balogun and Lanre Ogunyemi respectively, made this known in the guidelines jointly signed on Monday.

They said it was the duty of the party to provide guidelines for its members seeking to contest election.

They noted that the guidelines would, without prejudice, conform with the provisions of the partys constitution, the 2010 Electoral Act (as amended), the Nigerian Constitution, the Lagos State Local Government (Administration) Law and Guidelines of Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC).

The partys constitution prescribes that members name in the Register of Members shall be the prima facie evidence of valid registration as a member.

Hence, the first requirement is that any aspirant on the platform of the party shall comply with this provision.

The aspirant shall be a Nigerian citizen, registered member of the party, pays the prescribed fees and must not be a member of any other political party.

All aspirants must submit the evidence of membership of the party, submit a demonstrable evidence of active party support and provide a portfolio of loyalty to the party and evidence of non-involvement in any anti-party activity, the party leaders said.

They said all aspirants must sign the partys code of conduct and only aspirant cleared by the screening committee shall be eligible to stand election at the partys primaries.

According to the duo, every aspirant shall present for scrutiny all certificates that he or she lays claims to.

They noted that the screening committee shall take into consideration full information on an aspirants background such as education, political experience, team spirit and reputation.

They said there shall be a five-man screening appeal committee which shall be responsible for hearing of all appeals arising from the screening committees report.

The duo said that a disqualified aspirant might seek review of the screening committees decision by appealing to the State Caretaker Committee through the state caretaker chairperson.

According to them, there shall be a State Electoral Committee (SEC) for Chairmanship or Councillorship nomination and the LGA/LCDA Electoral Committee who must be persons of proven integrity.

The state caretaker committee said all accredited party members from the ward shall be entitled to vote in a direct primary system for aspirants of their choice.

They said that sales and submission of party forms would hold between May 4 and May 11 while the screening of aspirants would start from May 13 and end on May 21.

According to them, all appeals shall be heard from May 22 to May 26 while the primaries for Chairmanship and Councillorship aspirants would hold on May 29.

(NAN)

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The police in Lagos say they arrested 10 suspected traffic robbers allegedly terrorising the Ikeja area of the state on Saturday.

A 42-year-old, who allegedly receives the stolen goods from the suspects, was also arrested.

Muyiwa Adejobi, the police spokesperson, said in a statement on Monday that the suspects were arrested following a distress call by one of the victims.

The suspects allegedly attacked unsuspecting commuters and dispossessed them of their belongings.

In furtherance of the commands anti crime measures, the police operatives attached to the Strike Team of the Command, on 1st May, 2021, at 2pm, arrested eleven(11) suspected cultists and traffic robbers who were attacking and dispossessing innocent people of their belongings at Railway Crossing, Ikeja Along, Ikeja-Lagos.

The operatives who responded to a distress call from one of the victims (name withheld), raced to the area and arrested some of the suspects in action while others were arrested at their hideouts around Ikeja Along.

They have confessed to the crime. The suspects also revealed that they attack their targets with iron rods, guns, cutlasses and charms during operation, the police said.

Mr Adejobi, a chief superintendent of police, said in the course of police investigation, the suspects revealed one of their receivers, identified as Idris Adam.

He said the 42-year-old man was arrested at Alade Market, Lagos.

A gold necklace of one of the victims and many other suspected stolen items like phones, necklaces, watches etc were recovered from him, the police said.

The arrested suspects are Sadiq Masaki, 22; Oladimeji Olatunbosun, 24; Adam Hassan, 21; Tunde Afolayan, 24; Michael Ademola, 22; Olamide Johnson, 20; Abiodun Opeyemi, 22; Oluseyi Agbaje, 21; Daniel Ayomide, 20 and Adebayo Tobi, 21.

The police spokesperson added that other victims of the robbery operation on Saturday have been identified.

The police operatives are presently interrogating the suspects in order to extract more information on their mode of operations, membership and accomplices so as to apprehend other members of the gang and those who conspire with them in committing the dastardly act in the area and across the state, he said.

PREMIUM TIMES reported how two suspected traffic robbers were arrested at Ladipo market, Mushin, in March. The suspects were in possession of 11 phones and a sum of N139,000.

Suspects arrested with stolen car

In another operation, police operatives attached to Festac Division arrested two suspects, Nnonyelu Kelechukwu and Okongi Godspower, allegedly in possession of a stolen car.

The police said the suspects were arrested on April 29 after operatives received intelligence information.

Some community leaders in Festac had informed the Divisional Police Officer that the suspects wanted to sell one unregistered Lexus 2004 SUV to one Anas at the rate of (1,000,000) one million naira and they suspected that the vehicle must have been stolen.

The DPO and his team tracked down and arrested the suspects and the unregistered Lexus SUV was recovered to the station. The suspects have confessed that they removed the vehicle from somewhere in Alaba-Rago Area of Lagos State, the police said.

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The Commissioner of Police, Hakeem Odumosu, directed that the cases be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, Panti, Yaba, for discreet Investigation and possible arrest of other members of the syndicate.
Participation of the President of the Republic of Poland and the President of the Republic of Lithuania in solemn meeting of the Polish Sejm, Senate and the Lithuanian Seimas (1 / 12)

Address by the President

at the formal sitting of the Assembly of Members of Parliament and Senators

of the Republic of Poland

and the Members of Parliament of the Republic of Lithuania

Honourable President!

Honourable Madam Speaker of the Sejm of the Republic of Poland!

Honourable Madam Speaker of the Seimas of the Republic of Lithuania!

Honourable Marshal of the Senate of the Republic of Poland!!

Ladies and Gentlemen of the House!

Honourable Members of the Parliament of the Republic of Lithuania!

Honourable Senators!

Honourable Prime Minister!

Honourable Ministers!

Excellencies! All distinguished guests!

Ladies and Gentlemen attending todays ceremony either present here in this hall or connected online!

On the day when the historical past meets so tangibly with the present, we listen to the message of our ancestors. This is the testimony of their wisdom, responsibility and patriotism. This is our glorious Polish and Lithuanian heritage.

This is the great monument of history, significant for the development of the European and universal civilization:

In the name of God, one in the Holy Trinity () ; for the sake of the public good, for securing our liberty, and maintaining our kingdom and our borders () with zeal and firmness, we do solemnly establish the present Constitution.

This is how begins this Act, adopted 230 years ago in Warsaw, by the members and senators of the Crown and Lithuania, who together with the king formed the Sejm of the Commonwealth. Our ancestors wished to consolidate freedom and to defend the countrys imperilled independence. That is why they decided to embark on such a large-scale reform of the political system. The enactment of Europes first and the worlds second constitution was a proof that the Commonwealth is fully vital, is prepared to live and develop in line with the pulse of modernity. From a country which was perceived as peripheral, it became a precursor of ground-breaking changes, introducing a new political and social order, corresponding to the spirit of the times and the challenges of history. The Third of May Constitution will forever be remembered as a magnificent model of universal values, as one of the most important achievements of the human mind and an endeavour to build the most perfect political community possible.

Honourable President!

Ladies and Gentlemen!

I am very happy that we can jointly celebrate together the 230th anniversary of the adoption of the Third of May Constitution in a joint Polish-Lithuanian fold. It is our great pleasure to host in Warsaw the President of the Republic of Lithuania. A symbolic event of great prominence is this formal sitting of the Members and Senators of the Republic of Poland and of the Members of the Republic of Lithuania. My cordial greetings go out to all participants of this ceremony and I convey my best wishes to all the people of Lithuania. And once again. I thank you for this unique historic occasion in a unique historic setting.

Today's meeting is taking place in the difficult circumstances of a global pandemic. For this reason, the group present here cannot be as numerous as we would all like. However, even if not physically, we are here together today. Polish and Lithuanian hearts are gathered here. It could not be otherwise. Together we are expressing our centuries-old closeness and cooperation. Together, Poles and Lithuanians, we take pride in the great achievements of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. Together, we share pride in the common and wonderful achievement of the Third of May Constitution.

On behalf of the Polish people, I would like to thank our Lithuanian brothers warmly for the historic road we have travelled, walking side by side. For the alliances in defence of your and our independence, for supporting each other. Today, I would like to recall the outstanding figure of Tadeusz Reytan, a member of the Novogrudok voivodship from the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, who protested so passionately against the first partition of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth that he became a symbol of faithful patriotism and disagreement with the invading powers' violence. He is a figure who symbolises the spirit of our Polish-Lithuanian history, our steadfast love of freedom. The First Partition of Poland was a terrible shock, but it also brought about a great patriotic awakening and it fuelled the noblest forces of the nation, understood as a civil community. It was from this movement that the Third of May Constitution grew. As we recall here in Warsaw today the names of the leading authors of the Government Act of 3 May 1791, we must also remember how many of them had Lithuanian roots, or directly represented the lands of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania.

Ladies and Gentlemen!

We are heirs to a great and a virtually unique achievement. Ahead of the French constitution by a few months, our Government Act was a wise combination of the ideas of European Enlightenment and of our own centuries-long republican tradition. It was an expression of a unique political culture which to this day is part of our intangible DNA, of our identity: the culture of civil liberty which was often in short supply in many contemporary states in Western Europe, governed by absolutist monarchs and their bureaucracies.

It was precisely consolidation of this civil liberty, expanded upon citizens of towns, that was the aim of the Constitution, as much as the strengthening of governance and efficacy of the state so as to protect its independence threatened by the neighbouring empires. That is why the executive branch was vested with greater powers, that is why libreum veto was abolished. That is why the way was paved for the development of a modern nation, or more precisely several nations which made up the Commonwealth.

This is evidenced by the act complementing the works of the Consitituion: Mutual Pledge of Two Nations, adopted in October 1791. This is a befitting symbolic name. The mutual pledge is tantamount to reassurance, a guarantee, and at the same time it refers to the act of engagement which is irreversibly associated with proximity, trust and love of two people who have chosen one another forever. In the Mutual Pledge Act which underpinned the political system of the Commonwealth, the Crown and Lithuania equally confirmed their union and offered reciprocal guarantees to one another. The act met the expectations of political elites of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania to epitomize equality of Poles and Lithuanians in their reformed state. By doing so the authors of the Constitution demonstrated the ability  much needed even today - to build unity without destroying multiplicity, creating a community based on the foundation of compromise.

Honourable President!

Ladies and Gentlemen!

We are celebrating the anniversary of the Third of May Constitution equally for the sake of memory and for the sake of the future. One is directly linked to the other. For memory - proud, faithful, but not precluding the ability to understand and draw conclusions - is a great strength. It gives us a sense of being rooted, the sense of identity and a solid knowledge, grounded in experience, of what is that we want and what is we do not want. Memory serves a prosperous future.

We want to remember that the Third of May Constitution and its historical legacy is a magnificent, inspiring story. Above all, it tells us about vital energy, activism, the ability to self-repair, a sense of responsibility for the common good - all the more valuable because our ancestors knew how to inspire these qualities in themselves at the time of a deep crisis. They did not give up, they did not wring their hands - they opted for the path of action, of courageous renewal, of healing modernisation of the state. It is also a story about the power of community and national concord, so beautifully expressed in the cheers 'long live the king, long live the Sejm, long live the nation, and long live all the estates. At the same time it is a story about the strength of freedom, the rule of law and democracy, as the May Constitution was guided by the motto it enshrined: All power in civil society should be derived from the will of the people'.

This wonderful message of the Government Act has been carried down through the generations and has become a great treasure of our historical heritage.

That is why the enemies of freedom could not tolerate the Third of May Constitution. That is why imperial Russia waged a war against it. And all tyrants will always fight against the message of the Bright Dawn May with its freedom connotations. It was forbidden by the partitioners and occupiers. We also remember the times when it was forbidden to celebrate the Third of May during the years of Communist rule. The communist police made it compulsory to display national flags on 1 May, and to take them down one day later. However, the desire for freedom cannot be defeated. The values of the Third of May Constitution guided Poles during the Solidarity uprising. They also guided Lithuanians in the Reform Movement of Lithuania: Sajudis, in their fight for independence. On the strength of these values, we have won. They will always fortify us, and we will always be true to them.

Your Excellency, Honourable President!

Ladies and Gentlemen!

The Third of May Constitution is also a symbol, a masterpiece, a magnum opus, to express the spirit of the regional community of Central and Eastern Europe. For the Commonwealth where the union between Poland and Lithuania was established, was also home to many other nations and cultures. We managed to create as if a prototype of today's European Union in this region. For all its imperfections, it was a rare phenomenon: a multi-national state. It was a state featuring civil liberties, the rule of law, parliamentarianism and tolerance, which stood out so favourably compared to Europe back then.

Today, too, we need this spirit of community, cooperation and solidarity in our region, and we carry out the task to perfection. The Polish-Lithuanian partnership plays a significant role here. What is a great achievement and a great victory for the nations of Central and Eastern Europe - nations which have experienced the hardships of history, when we were in the grip of imperial powers which deprived us of our freedom - is the firm realisation of how important we are to each other. How important our dialogue, trust and cooperation are in the face of today's opportunities, challenges but also threats.

Poland and Lithuania are linked by a friendly, close neighbourhood. A very important bond in our relations is also our common membership of the European Union, where we act together to forge and promote European integration; and also our membership of the North Atlantic Alliance. These two fundamental factors, two great achievements of our most recent history, bring us even closer together. We also jointly recognise that regional cooperation in Central and Eastern Europe is an important dimension of European integration and the strengthening of stability, security and peace throughout Europe and the Euro-Atlantic area. The Three Seas Initiative, which brings together twelve European Union countries from the region between the Adriatic, Baltic and Black Seas, is a new and important quality. We hope that the 3SI will be able to positively change the picture of Europe, where trade, transport, people and goods were exchanged mainly between the West and the East. Now, the north-south axis may also gain equal importance, as it should.

The alliance of the Polish and Lithuanian arms bears the hallmark of centuries-long historical test. Also today our military cooperation within NATO produces a mutual enhancement of our security and of the independence of our states. This is particularly important in view of the situation that is currently developing the East. An important element of European security and stability is also the cooperation of the countries in our region along the eastern flank of NATO within the framework of the Bucharest Nine. We realise that by working together, in solidarity and determination in the face of threats, we are acting for our common good. We also show solidarity and support for the nations that used to be together with us as part of a Commonwealth of many cultures and traditions - the Ukrainians, who strive to strengthen the independence and integrity of Ukraine, and the Belarusians, who demand respect for the principles of democracy and human rights in Belarus. In today's circumstances, this effort also contributes to the cultivation of the Third of May Constitution: its heritage and accomplishments.

Honourable President!

Ladies and Gentlemen!

One of the great European thinkers of the 18th century, the founder of modern conservatism, Edmund Burke, called the Third of May Constitution the noblest benefit received by any nation at any time'. We can be rightfully proud and satisfied that we are the depositaries of such a great benefit. It is a source of pride and honour, but also a great obligation. A duty to remember and a duty to ensure that the work of the Third of May Constitution remains a living repository of fundamental values which should guide us in political life and in the international area. May it be a constant inspiration for us, our contemporaries, amidst the challenges of the 21st century. This is how we understand the timeless message of the Third of May Constitution - a constitution of freedom, a constitution of independence, a constitution of solidarity between people and nations.

Thank you.
The unconditional offer at $1.05 cash per share was received this morning from Samuel Terry Asset Management Pty Ltd as trustee for Samuel Terry Absolute Return Active Fund.

KPT shares have today traded as much as 7.7% higher to $1.13.

recommends that shareholders take no action in relation to an on-market takeover bid by Samuel Terry Asset Management Pty Ltd as trustee for Samuel Terry Absolute Return Active Fund.

The unconditional offer at $1.05 cash per share was received this morning with KPT shares trading as much as 7.7% higher intra-day to $1.13.

KPT said that it had received copies of the bidders statement and other documents in connection with the takeover offer and was reviewing them. The offer will remain open until June 18, 2021.

KPT statement

In a statement, KPT said: The company intends to provide an initial response to the Takeover Offer within the next 48 hours, once it has completed its initial review of the bidders statement and other documents in connection with the Takeover Offer.

The company will also provide a targets statement in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) within 14 days.

The bidder has appointed Third Party Platform Pty Ltd as its broker for the purchase of the KPT shares on-market.

This broker has also appointed Aitken Murray Capital Partners Pty Ltd as the financial adviser in respect of the offer and Allens as the legal adviser in respect of the offer.

In a statement, the bidder said: The offer price of $1.05 per share:

Is equivalent to the closing price of KPT shares on April 30, 2021 (being the last trading day prior to the announcement of the offer);

Is equivalent to the 1 month VWAP of KPT shares to April 30, 2021; and

Represents a premium of 3% to the 3 month VWAP of KPT Shares to April 30, 2021, of $1.02.

The offer is a best and final offer, and the bidder will not increase the offer price.

About Samuel Terry Asset Management

Samuel Terry Asset Management Pty Ltd (STAM)is making the offer in its capacity as trustee for Samuel Terry Absolute Return Active Fund.

STAM is a boutique investment management company based in Sydney established in April 2004.

It is the investment manager and trustee of the Samuel Terry Absolute Return Active Fund and Samuel Terry Absolute Return Fund which are trusts whose units are stapled together to form the Samuel Terry Absolute Return Group.

The size of the fund is approximately $360 million.

This fund invests in Australian and international debt and equity securities, which may be listed or unlisted, and derivatives.
More Information

Neiman Marcus at the Somerset Collection in Troy will host the 2021 Spring Soiree May 5-9 to honor those living with Alzheimers and their caregivers in order to raise funds for the Alzheimers Association Michigan Chapter. Attendance is free, but all donations directly support the mission of the Alzheimers Association as it provides care and support to those needing it most.

DATE: The Spring Soiree begins Wednesday, May 5 (Cinco de Mayo), from 2-7 p.m. Customers can shop through Sunday, May 9 (Mothers Day) in-store or online to benefit this cause by mentioning the Alzheimers Association. Firefly actor/Spring Soiree co-chair Sean Maher will be present May 5.

RAFFLE PRIZES: Supporters have the chance to win some amazing prizes, including:

A Day of Luxury Shoes, a $3,000 value courtesy of Neiman Marcus

A fashion illustration by Detroit-based artist Nicole Jarecz

A HydraFacial by Steven E. Stein, M.D. in Troy

ONLINE AUCTION: Bid on one or both of two (2) 45-minute Zoom chats with Maher and Firefly co-star Jewel Staite.

HOW TO SUPPORT, PURCHASE RAFFLE TICKETS AND DONATE: Visit springsoiree21.givesmart.com.

INFO BOX: Sean Maher

A New York native and alumnus of New York University, Sean Maher lives in Metro Detroit with his husband of five years (although theyve been together almost 20 years), Paul Mareski, and their two children: Sophia, 13, and Liam, 10. He is best known for playing Dr. Simon Tam on 2002s short-lived Firefly TV series, created by Joss Whedon, which has a strong cult following. Hes also appeared in Whedons 2012 adaptation of Shakespeares Much Ado About Nothing as Don John. Additional roles include The Playboy Club (playing a closeted gay man, which inspired him to come out in real life) and the voice of the super-hero Nightwing (Robins adult identity) in seven Batman and Justice League animated movies.
CHAMPLAIN [mdash] Theresa L. Ero, age 79, of State Rt. 276 passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, June 2, 2021, in St. Luke's Healthcare with her family at her side after being stricken ill while visiting her daughter in central New York. She was born on May 2, 1942, in Champlain, N.Y., a da
SANTA CLARA, Calif., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- HGS Digital is being recognized, for the second year in a row , for its compelling social media strategy and solutions portfolio that includes HGS EPIC Social Care program. Working with clients and PR firms, the HGS EPIC Social Care team responds to everyday inquiries efficiently while delivering appropriate messaging in the context of human rights, natural disasters, and pandemics.

HGS Digital is the digital technology business of Hinduja Global Solutions (HGS), a global leader in business process management (BPM) and in optimizing the customer experience lifecycle. The company operates a global network of customer experience (CX) centers across the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, India, Jamaica, United Arab Emirates (UAE), and the Philippines.

According to Frost & Sullivan market analysis, HGS EPICSocial Care program sets the company apart in the competitive customer care landscape. "HGS has developed an industry-leading social media and employee recruitment model" said Michael DeSalles, Principal Analyst, at Frost & Sullivan. "HGS EPIC helps build brand affinity and loyalty, creating truly memorable customer experiences and lasting impressions through social media and other digital channels."

HGS EPIC, the company's social care offering, is an acronym (Engage, Protect, Inform, Create) describing HGS Digital's approach to social care and online reputation management. Behind HGS EPIC is a philosophy that supports the efficient management of social media on a large scale to build a positive brand image. The unique solution combines industry-leading platforms and artificial intelligence with operating playbooks proven through hundreds of thousands of work hours supporting the world's largest brand.

"Our team works to create memorable experiences and lasting impressions that help build brand affinity and loyalty throughout the entire consumer journey," said Amanda Sternquist, Global Head, Digital Engagement Practice, HGS Digital. "At HGS, we are deeply committed to our role in building positive reputation and serving as empathetic problem-solvers who empower our clients by being brilliant at the basics and driving results consistently. We're excited to accept this Frost & Sullivan Award, for two years running, for our HGS EPIC Social Care. We will continue to seek ways to use our intelligent innovation and expertise to create industry-leading solutions and deliver quality service."

Frost & Sullivan Best Practices Awards recognize companies in a variety of regional and global markets for demonstrating outstanding achievement and superior performance in areas such as leadership, technological innovation, customer service, and strategic product development. Industry analysts compare market participants and measure performance through in-depth interviews, analyses, and extensive secondary research to identify best practices in the industry.

About Frost & Sullivan:

Frost & Sullivan, the Growth Partnership Company, collaborates with clients to leverage visionary innovation that addresses the global challenges and related growth opportunities that will make or break today's market participants. For more than 50 years, Frost & Sullivan has been developing growth strategies for the global 1000, emerging businesses, the public sector, and the investment community.

Contact us: Start the discussion.

About HGS

A global leader in business process management (BPM) and optimizing the customer experience lifecycle, HGS is helping make its clients more competitive every day. HGS combines technology-powered services in automation, analytics and digital with domain expertise focusing on back office processing, contact centers and HRO solutions to deliver transformational impact to clients. Part of the multi-billion dollar conglomerate Hinduja Group, HGS takes a true "globally local" approach, with over 41,110 employees across 59 delivery centers in seven countries making a difference to some of the world's leading brands across nine key verticals. For the year ended 31st March 2020, HGS had revenues of Rs. 52,354 million (US$ 737 million).

Visit www.teamhgs.com to learn how HGS can help make your business more competitive.

Media Contacts:

Frost & Sullivan

Claudia Toscano

+1 210 247 8417

claudia.toscano@frost.com

Related Links

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SOURCE Frost & Sullivan
STOCKHOLM, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- NextFuel AB and Taaleri Plc have signed an agreement giving Taaleri the right to license NextFuel's new torrefaction technology in their planned biocoal project in Joensuu, Finland, and in other future projects.

"We are pleased that Taaleri has chosen NextFuel as their technology partner, and we look forward to working closely together with them during this project. The agreement is a major milestone on our roadmap to get companies all over the world to use our superior technology to make a profitable clean successor to fossil fuels", says CEO in NextFuel AB, Stefano Romano.

NextFuel's new torrefaction technology makes it possible to produce a clean copy of coal in less than 30 minutes. The new fuel can be produced from a large variety of abundant biomass raw materials, including forestry residues, elephant grass, bagasse and other types of fast growing energy crops, that can be grown on marginal land not suitable for food production. The energy content is similar to coal (22-28 GJ/t), and the briquettes can be used directly in existing energy infrastructure, making it possible to fast and inexpensively phase out coal with a clean alternative. This new fuel is carbon neutral, and can even be carbon negative, depending on the type of crop used and local conditions. NextFuel's business plan is to license this technology to companies all over the world.

Taaleri announced last December that they were preparing to build its first biocoal plant in Joensuu, Finland, on Savon Voima Oyj's power and heat plant site. Taaleri Plc also plans to build more biocoal plants in the future, likely in Europe and North America.

It is estimated that the biocoal plant will commence operations in 2022. Joensuun Biohiili Oy will build and operate the plant and NextFuel AB will provide the process technology for the plant. The companies have also agreed for an option for possible future projects. NextFuel will receive a licensing fee per tonne produced, and has also been given the opportunity to co-invest and take equity positions in this and other possible future Taaleri projects.

 By utilizing NextFuel's torrefaction technology, we believe this gives us a clear competitive edge in the biomass industry, this agreement will strengthen our project even further, says Taaleri Plc CEO, Robin Lindahl.

For further information, please contact:

Stefano Romano, CEO,

NextFuel AB

+46 70 860 62 99,

stefano.romano@nextfuel.com

Robin Lindahl, CEO, Taaleri Plc,

+358 50 595 9616,

robin.lindahl@taaleri.com

About NextFuel AB:

NextFuel AB is a Scandinavian clean tech company, with HQ in Stockholm, branch offices in Oslo and Vienna, and a full scale pilot/demonstration plant in Frohnleiten, Austria. NextFuel announced at COP24 in December 2018 a technological breakthrough within the renewable energy industry. This unique torrefaction technology can transform tall, fast growing grasses, bagasse, waste wood and other types of abundant biomass into a profitable and clean copy of coal in less than 30 minutes. NextFuel briquettes can replace coal directly in today's energy infrastructure at very competitive prices, and even be used to replace heating oil, charcoal and be clean back-up power for wind and solar. NextFuel was ranked as one of the top 3 clean tech startups in the world at the Green Awards in Berlin in 2019. NextFuel's vision is to give the world a clean successor to fossil fuels. Learn more about our new technology at www.nextfuel.com

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/nextfuel/r/nextfuel-signs-agreement-with-taaleri,c3338620

SOURCE NextFuel
- Increase in shift toward efficient energy technologies, advanced metering infrastructure, and robust investment in smart grid technologies have boosted the growth of the global smart energy market.

PORTLAND, Ore., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Allied Market Research recently published a report, titled, "Smart Energy Market by Product (Smart grid, Digital Oilfield, Smart Solar, and Home energy management system), End-User Industry (Residential, Industrial, and Commercial): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 20202027". As per the report, the global smart energy industry was pegged at $124.0 billion in 2019, and is projected to reach $253.1 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 9.6% from 2020 to 2027.

Drivers, restraints, and opportunities

Increase in shift toward efficient energy technologies, advanced metering infrastructure, and robust investment in smart grid technologies have boosted the growth of the global smart energy market. However, high capital investment and integration of complex technologies hinder the market growth. On the contrary, favorable government policies are expected to create lucrative opportunities for the market players in the future.

Download Sample PDF (210 Pages PDF with Insights): https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-sample/9799

Covid-19 scenario:

Since the outbreak of Covid-19, the market witnessed a significant decline in demand from the manufacturing and production centres, due to large number of shutdowns in the industrial sector.

Shift toward "work from home" culture and rise in energy demand from the residential sector will foster the market growth.

Social distancing norms and lockdown measures across the globe led to supply chain disruption in the market.

However, industry players would focus to reassess their supply chain and consider whether sourcing from domestic players closer to the operational site improve the supply chain or not.

The smart grid segment dominated the market

By smart grid segment held the lion's share in 2019, accounting for more than two-thirds of the global smart energy market, due to rise in demand for dynamic pricing or real-time pricing coupled with the application of distributed energy systems in residential and commercial places. However, the smart solar segment is expected to manifest the highest CAGR of 12.7% during the forecast period, owing to increase in demand across different industry verticals for electricity generation, heating, and desalination of seawater.

Get detailed COVID-19 impact analysis on the Smart Energy Market: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-for-customization/9799?reqfor=covid

The industrial segment to portray the highest CAGR through 2027

By end-user industry, the industrial segment is estimated to portray the highest CAGR of 10.1% during the forecast period. Moreover, the segment held the largest share in 2019, contributing to more than nearly half of the global smart energy market, due to increase in demand for energy-intensive industrial sectors where the smart energy systems help to reduce energy cost and improve the company's ecological profile.

North America held the lion's share

By region, the market across North America dominated in 2019, accounting for nearly half of the market, due to modernization of grids, integrated resource planning, utility business models, rate reformation, and application of advanced metering devices. However, the global smart energy market across Asia-Pacific is projected to register the highest CAGR of 10.7% during the forecast period, owing to the rise in application of smart energy devices predominantly in China with the increase in demand for renewable energy sources.

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Major market players

General Electric

Itron

Honeywell International

Siemens

ABB Group

Larsen & Toubro

Interested in Procure Data? Visit Here: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/smart-energy-market/purchase-options

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SOURCE Allied Market Research
MOSCOW, April 30, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF, Russia's sovereign wealth fund) announces that the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Turkey has registered the Russian Sputnik V vaccine against coronavirus in the country.

The vaccine has been registered in Turkey under the emergency use authorization procedure (EUA). Turkey has become the 63rd country to authorize the use of Sputnik V. Total population of the countries where Sputnik V is approved for use exceeds 3.2 billion people.

Post-vaccination studies in a number of countries demonstrate that Sputnik V is the safest and most effective vaccine against coronavirus. Sputnik V ranks second among coronavirus vaccines globally in terms of the number of approvals issued by government regulators.

RDIF had earlier reached an agreement with Turkey's Viscoran Ilac pharmaceutical company to cooperate on production of Sputnik V in the country. Viscoran Ilac has carried out necessary studies for localization of the product and aims to launch the production in the country in the upcoming months at several facilities.

To date Sputnik V has also been approved in Russia, Belarus, Argentina, Bolivia, Serbia, Algeria, Palestine, Venezuela, Paraguay, Turkmenistan, Hungary, UAE, Iran, Republic of Guinea, Tunisia, Armenia, Mexico, Nicaragua, Republika Srpska (entity of Bosnia and Herzegovina), Lebanon, Myanmar, Pakistan, Mongolia, Bahrain, Montenegro, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Gabon, San-Marino, Ghana, Syria, Kyrgyzstan, Guyana, Egypt, Honduras, Guatemala, Moldova, Slovakia, Angola, Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Sri Lanka, Laos, Iraq, North Macedonia, Kenya, Morocco, Jordan, Namibia, Azerbaijan, Philippines, Cameroon, Seychelles, Mauritius, Vietnam, Antigua and Barbuda, Mali, Panama, India, Nepal and Bangladesh.

Kirill Dmitriev, CEO of the Russian Direct Investment Fund, said:

"Russia and Turkey have been actively cooperating in the joint fight against coronavirus since the beginning of the pandemic and RDIF welcomes the decision by the Ministry of Health of Turkey today to authorize Sputnik V. The vaccine is used in dozens of countries around the world and post-vaccination studies in many of them demonstrate that Sputnik V is the safest and most effective vaccine against coronavirus. The Russian vaccine will contribute to saving lives, preventing the spread of coronavirus and creating a long-term immunity among the population in Turkey and will help to return to normal life soon."

Sputnik V has a number of key advantages:

Efficacy of Sputnik V is 97.6% based on the analysis of data on the coronavirus infection rate among those in Russia vaccinated with both components of Sputnik V from December 5, 2020 to March 31, 2021 ;

The Sputnik V vaccine is based on a proven and well-studied platform of human adenoviral vectors, which cause the common cold and have been around for thousands of years.

Sputnik V uses two different vectors for the two shots in a course of vaccination, providing immunity with a longer duration than vaccines using the same delivery mechanism for both shots.

The safety, efficacy and lack of negative long-term effects of adenoviral vaccines have been proven by more than 250 clinical studies over two decades.

There are no strong allergies caused by Sputnik V.

The storage temperature of Sputnik V at +2+8 C means it can be stored in a conventional refrigerator without any need to invest in additional cold-chain infrastructure.

The price of Sputnik V is less than $10 per shot, making it affordable around the world.

Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) is Russia's sovereign wealth fund established in 2011 to make equity co-investments, primarily in Russia, alongside reputable international financial and strategic investors. RDIF acts as a catalyst for direct investment in the Russian economy. RDIF's management company is based in Moscow. Currently, RDIF has experience of the successful joint implementation of more than 80 projects with foreign partners totaling more than RUB2 tn and covering 95% of the regions of the Russian Federation. RDIF portfolio companies employ more than 800,000 people and generate revenues which equate to more than 6% of Russia's GDP. RDIF has established joint strategic partnerships with leading international co-investors from more than 18 countries that total more than $40 bn. Further information can be found at www.rdif.ru

SOURCE The Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF)
The FEED Study is 70% complete with several major deliverables completed including the block flow and process flow diagrams, mechanical equipment selection and sizing and the overall mechanical equipment list.

( ) (FRA:3A2) (OTCMKTS:AZZVF) has several project milestones in its pipeline which will be ticked off shortly at the Manono Lithium and Tin Project in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as it moves rapidly towards production.

These include a DRC Government decision expected around the Manono Special Economic Zone by the end of this month and a Final Investment Decision (FID) on the project by the end of June or early July.

The company has also received notification that its feasibility study for the Mpiana Mwanga HydroElectric Power Plant (MM HEPP) has been validated by the Ministry of Hydraulic Resources and Electricity.

AVZ Power SAU, a 100%-owned subsidiary of AVZ International, is assessing the specified technical and administrative recommendations, before advancing to the next stage of negotiations with the Ministry of Hydraulic Resources and Electricity during the coming months.

Once concluded it is anticipated that AVZ Power will be awarded a 20-year, renewable, contract to manage and operate the MM HEPP.

Manono Special Economic Zone (MSEZ)

AVZ is updating its MSEZ technical, development, environmental and financial documentation with additional information, as requested by the DRC Government.

These documents will be submitted shortly with a decision on the granting of the MSEZ expected by the end of May 2021.

The official inter-ministerial decree and collaboration documents, which cover the development of infrastructures and natural resources is expected to deliver the Manono mine, the anchor tenant for the MSEZ, and all of the prospective MSEZ tenants, a favourable fiscal regime.

Buoyant market conditions continue

Managing director Nigel Ferguson said: Buoyant market conditions continue with both spodumene concentrate and lithium chemical prices strengthening on the back of rising electric vehicle demand, just as international government policies advance the reduction of carbon emissions whilst securing strategic supply chains that feed domestic EV industries across the globe.

As previously announced, AVZ reached a significant milestone in March 2021 with more than 80% of our annual Manono Lithium and Tin Projects spodumene concentrate production now committed under long-term binding offtake agreements.

These three offtake agreements contain formula pricing that references a basket of lithium chemical prices and underpinning floor price.

Based on prevailing reference prices, the offtake formula pricing is expected to deliver a pleasing return to AVZ.

The finalisation of the three binding offtake agreements also satisfies a critical condition precedent for the Manono Projects prospective financiers and with buoyant market conditions expected to continue, the company is in a strong position to selectively discuss further strategic offtake and downstream processing opportunities with a particular focus on new and emerging market penetration.

New DRC Government cabinet

A new Government Cabinet of the Democratic Republic of Congo was appointed earlier this month by Prime Minister Jean-Michel Sama Lukonde.

AVZ is engaging with several new Ministers, including Minister of Mines Antoinette NSamba Kalambay, Minister of State and Minister of Portfolio Adele Kayinda, Deputy Prime Minister in charge of Environmental and Sustainable Development Eve Bazaiba and Minister for Hydraulic Resources and Electricity Mwenze Mukaleng Olivier.

The company is working with the newly appointed government cabinet to progress the development of the Manono Project within the framework of the proposed MSEZ.

Front End Engineering Design (FEED) Study

The FEED Study is 70% complete with several significant deliverables already completed including the block flow and process flow diagrams, mechanical equipment selection and sizing, the overall mechanical equipment list, the electrical load list and plant general arrangement drawings, including a 3D model which is around 80% completed.

Work is also well advanced around completing the capital and operational costs of the project to an AACEI International Class 2 level of estimation.

Project financing

In parallel with finalising the updated DFS, the company has been actively engaging with various commercial banks, finance brokers, private equity investors and non-commercial lenders such as Pan-African Development Finance Institutions (DFIs) to secure funding for the development of the Manono Project.

The company is making good progress through the 'Know Your Customer' and 'Conditions Precedent' stages with the Pan African DFIs and is confident of negotiating project funding on reasonable terms and conditions.

Geotechnical and other studies

The hydrogeological study has recently been completed by Knight Piesold and resulted in a water model suitable for BFS level and for inclusion in the Manono Process Plant Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) application, which will be submitted for approval by the Agence Congolaise Environmental (ACE).

Both the ESIA once approved by ACE, and the DFS study (which has already been incorporated into the template required by the government for the conversion to a mining licence), are required to be included in the application as part of the process for the granting of a 25-year renewable Permit Exploitation.

CSA Global Johannesburg has been engaged to review the Mineral Resource Estimate and pit shell designs based on the recent Roche Dure pit floor wedge drilling results.

The Roche Dure pit optimisation redesign will begin once the Mineral Resource Estimate is completed.
MELBOURNE, Australia, May 4, 2021 /PRNewswire/ - Amp Power Australia Pty Limited, the Australian operating company of global developer Amp Energy ("Amp") has announced the establishment of the Renewable Energy Hub of South Australia ("REHSA"); a strategic portfolio of large scale integrated Solar PV, Wind and Battery Energy Storage ("BESS") assets located in South Australia. The Renewable Energy Hub of South Australia also includes the siting of the Spencer Gulf Hydrogen Energy Ecoplex, forming part of the South Australian Government's Hydrogen Action Plan.

The portfolio, acquired from EPS, includes three large Solar PV projects totalling over 1.3 GW of generation, located at Robertstown (636 MW), Bungama (336 MW) and Yoorndoo Ilga (388 MW) with a total BESS capacity of up to 540MW across the portfolio.

With development approvals and land secured, the Robertstown and Bungama projects are expected to begin staged energisation in late 2022. These two projects alone will create up to 550 equivalent full-time construction jobs including the regional workforce, and will generate electricity production to power the equivalent of 230,000 homes each year. Total investment in the Renewable Energy Hub of South Australia would exceed $2 billion.

Two of the sites offer additional strategic value with the planned development of an integrated hydrogen production facility for both the domestic market and for export from the Spencer Gulf to Asia where Amp has existing operations.

This strategic portfolio establishment continues Amp's expansion in Australia which presently includes 158 MW of operating or under construction solar PV assets located in NSW. Amp's NSW assets include the 39 MW Molong Solar Farm, near Orange in NSW, which achieved 100% generation in December 2020, only two months following first energisation.

''The strategic value of the South Australian portfolio is significant in a jurisdiction which is undergoing one of the most rapid energy transitions in the world". said Dean Cooper, Executive Vice President and Head of Amp Australia.

South Australian Minister for Trade and Investment, Stephen Patterson, welcomes the news of the Renewable Energy Hub of South Australia.

"South Australia has significant land mass and world-class wind and solar resources, with aspirations of reaching net 100 per cent renewable energy generation by 2030.

"We have seen over $7 billion invested in projects with another $20 billion in the pipeline. The Renewable Energy Hub of South Australia will be fundamental in integrating our state's renewable energy storage assets and building our capability and supporting the fast-moving energy transitions we're experiencing."

Amp's expansion in Australia will include the implementation of Amp X, a proprietary digital energy platform 100% owned by Amp, which provides a diverse portfolio of disruptive and interoperable grid edge solutions. Amp X includes a state-of-the-art smart transformer, which enables real-time autonomous management and optimised dispatch of all forms of distributed generation and loads across the grid.

About Amp

Amp is a global energy transition platform.

We develop, own and operate clean energy assets throughout our core markets around the world, alongside Amp X, our disruptive grid-edge technology platform utilizing proprietary artificial intelligence expertise. The company is headquartered in Toronto with global operations throughout Australia, India, Japan, Spain, Czech Republic, UK and North America.

Founded in 2009, Amp is a high-growth disruptor at scale, backed by major investments from institutional capital partners including most recently the Carlyle Group, which invested US$374 million into the company in late 2020.

For more information, please visit amp.energy

SOURCE Amp Energy
Ambassador Kelly Craft served as the United States Permanent Representative to the United Nations from 2019 to 2021, and U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp served as the first female senator elected from North Dakota from 2013 to 2019. Their combined expertise will bring significant perspective to the Advisory Board as it works to strengthen and advance the Canada-US relationship.

"The CABC's strength lies in its ability to bring together diverse voices from across the aisle, boardroom and border," says CABC CEO Maryscott Greenwood. "As our countries navigate significant issues affecting our relationship, including North American trade, climate change, the pandemic recovery and reopening our shared economies, Ambassador Craft and Senator Heitkamp will provide welcomed counsel."

"I am delighted to join this distinguished group of leaders advising the CABC. Ever since my first day as Ambassador to Canada, I valued the wise counsel of the Council's Advisory Board members on key bilateral issues, and it is an honor to now count myself among them. I look forward to continuing to build on the important work of the USMCA which was a milestone achievement during my tenure in Ottawa," said Ambassador Kelly Craft.

"As a lifelong resident of a northern border state and a proponent of strong Canada/US relations, I couldn't be more delighted to join such a distinguished group of leaders from all political stripes and from both sides of the border to advance this essential relationship," said Senator Heidi Heitkamp.

The new members will join the existing members of the Advisory Board, which includes former US and Canadian ambassadors, and provincial, state and federal leaders.

About the CABC: Established in 1987, the Canadian American Business Council is the leading non-profit, non-partisan, issues-oriented organization dedicated to fostering dialogue between the public and private sectors in Canada and the US. Members are key business leaders and stakeholders from both sides of the border ranging from entrepreneurs to best name brands in the world. Collectively, CABC members employ about two million people and have annual revenues of close to $1.5 trillion. For more information, visit www.cabc.co.

SOURCE Canadian American Business Council
The first in Chinese mainland  Shanghai-Jiading Expressway

The high-speed section of the Shanghai-Jiading Expressway starts from the south of Shanghai's downtown area to Jiading District, with a total length of 15.9 km. The construction of this expressway accounts for 56 percent of the passenger and freight traffic on the Huyi Highway between the urban area and Jiading. It provides a good template for the construction of highways in other cities in China.

The busiest  Beijing-Hong Kong-Macao Expressway

The Beijing-Hong Kong-Macao Expressway starts from the Chinese capital and extends to the Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions, stretching over 2,285 km.

Called the "Golden Channel," it is the busiest artery of north-south traffic in China running between some of China's most economically developed areas.

The longest  Lianyungang-Khorgos Expressway

The Lianyungang-Khorgos Expressway opened to traffic on December 31, 2014 with a total length of 4,395 km extending from the eastern coast of Jiangsu Province to the western border of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. It boasts the title of the "longest expressway in China" and is an important traffic artery along the Belt and Road.

Thanks to this highway, a freight truck setting out from Lianyungang now takes 10 days to reach Europe, crossing plains, mountains, plateaus and deserts. By sea, the trip from the same starting point to the same destination would have taken 45 days.

The Lianyungang-Khorgos Expressway is rich in cultural treasures. There are 24 national 5A scenic spots along the way, including the Terracotta Warriors, Longmen Grottoes and Shaolin Temple, making it a good choice for a road trip.

The longest expressway passing through desert  Beijing-Urumqi Expressway

The Beijing-Urumqi Expressway has a total length of 2,540 km and passes through five provinces, municipalities and autonomous regions. It opened up the fastest route from northwest China's Khorgos in Xinjiang to the northern port city of Tianjin.

The 930-km section of the Beijing-Urumqi Expressway in Inner Mongolia is a desert zone, which makes this expressway the longest highway in the world passing through the desert.

The most difficult construction  Shanghai-Chongqing Expressway

The Shanghai-Chongqing Expressway is 1,768 km long and opened to traffic in 2010. It is China's first expressway that runs through the Yangtze River Delta area.

The section passes through the central province of Hubei and has an average altitude of 1,100 meters. The complicated geological conditions made this expressway extremely difficult to construct.

The Shanghai-Chongqing Expressway shortened the transport of hotpot ingredients from Chongqing Municipality in the country's southwest to Shanghai on China's eastern coast from three days to just 17 hours.

Highest honor award  Jing-Wu-Huang (Chang) Expressway

The Jing-Wu-Huang (Chang) Expressway has a total length of about 152 km. This Y-shaped expressway connects the three eastern provinces of Jiangxi, Anhui and Zhejiang.

Although the road is not long, natural landscapes and cultural assets are in abundance along the way.

Engineers steered clear from ancient villages, rivers, and rare bird habitats and none of the hundreds of century-old camphor trees along the route were damaged. For this it won the highest award in China's civil engineering  the Zhan Tianyou Award.

https://news.cgtn.com/news/2021-05-01/Amazing-Roads-Get-to-know-China-s-most-exceptional-expressways-ZT8FK9IEsE/index.html

SOURCE CGTN

Related Links

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NEW YORK, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Chloe Capital and Cornell University are joining forces to support underrepresented founders combating climate change.

Diversity In ClimateTech is a new program to recruit, educate, inspire and support the growth of companies led by Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) and women founders on the forefront of clean energy innovation.

Diversity in ClimateTech Info Session May 13

According to The U.S. VC Female Founders Dashboard by Pitchbook, companies with female founders only receive 1.3% of the billions in venture capital invested yearly across the U.S. Yet studies such as The New Face of a Founder , a report developed by Black Women Talk Tech, uncovers Black women as the next billion-dollar founders.

"The Black women tech founders surveyed in the Talk Tech report represent $5 trillion in global market value," noted Elisa Miller-Out, Managing Partner of Chloe Capital. "What's more, they're building businesses in some of the fastest growing industries for startups, including clean energy."

Chloe Capital is a venture capital firm that invests with a gender and diversity lens. The firm also partners with universities, foundations and corporations to host programs that catalyze fundraising efforts for women and BIPOC entrepreneurs. On average, program participants raise $1.5M in funding.

Chloe Capital's next program, Diversity In ClimateTech, is in partnership with Cornell's Center for Regional Economic Advancement (CREA), and supported by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) through the Accelerate Southern Tier program.

Katie MacDonald, NYSERDA's Assistant Director, Technology to Market said, "We know that women and diverse founders bring unique ideas and strategies to the table when it comes to commercializing climate technologies and that we need those perspectives to meet the State's nation-leading climate goals. This program will offer support that helps them overcome unique challenges and prepares them to bring their products to market."

Diversity In ClimateTech is designed to support the capitalization efforts of diverse entrepreneurs, culminating with a pitch event this Fall in Ithaca, New York. "In addition to Chloe Capital making an investment in at least one high-growth, women-led climate tech company, the program will open the door to the firm's global network of investors, corporations and institutions," said Myneco Ramirez, Chloe Capital's Chief Experience Officer.

Chloe Capital is now seeking diverse founders of seed-stage climate tech companies. Founders can be based anywhere in the world; however, all companies must have at least one woman on the leadership team to receive funding. Innovations that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, support the decarbonization of the economy, and broadly reduce energy consumption are candidates. Founders can submit applications at ChloeCapital.com/ClimateTech .

Investors and founders can also learn more about at an information session on Thursday, May 13, 2021 from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. ET. Register at ChloeCapitalRecruiting4ClimateTech.eventbrite.com .

Chloe Capital's partnership with CREA will also support founders with idea-stage and pre-seed technology companies by introducing them to resources in New York's clean energy ecosystem within the Southern Tier.

"Cornell's team at CREA will identify and recruit diverse innovators and provide them with training and early-stage entrepreneurship skills, including customer discovery, business idea validation, and IP generation," said Andrea Ippolito, W.E. Cornell program director.

About Chloe Capital

Chloe Capital is a venture capital firm that invests in women-led technology companies. In addition to investing with a gender and diversity lens, Chloe Capital partners with universities, foundations and corporations to host programs that help catalyze fundraising efforts for underrepresented founders. This collaborative approach to early-stage investing is what makes the firm so unique. More than 15,000 people around the world have already joined Chloe Capital's Movement to #InvestInWomen. ChloeCapital.com

Contact

Kathryn Cartini

Partner, Chloe Capital

[email protected]

978-225-3288

About CREA

Cornell's Center for Regional Economic Advancement (CREA) fuels economic growth and diversity in Upstate New York through entrepreneurship and innovation. CREA is focused on making a measurable impact by supporting and managing a portfolio of over a dozen programs, including Rev: Ithaca Startup Works, Rev's Hardware Accelerators, Grow-NY, UNY I-Corps, Cleantech Hardware Scaleup, and many Cornell-facing startup accelerators and fellowships. CREA.Cornell.edu

SOURCE Chloe Capital

Related Links

https://chloecapital.com


Finalists will be selected from a pool of 21 semi-finalists, five of which will be invited to participate in the virtual pitch event scheduled for July 21. The top three semi-finalists will receive special consideration for a pilot project with GS Group.

"Open innovation is challenging in general and hard across the Pacific Ocean," said Sungene Ryang, host and Executive Director of GS Beyond. "The cash prize is free from any conditions, and this is by design. We want companies to feel free to build their companies as they see fit and trust them to use the funds to their advantage. While I don't have a hand in picking the winner, I'm certainly eager to learn who it is and how they could fit into the GS ecosystem."

The challenge is now accepting applications via GSBeyondEnergy.com to energy sector startups in the US with a minimum viable product (MVP) or working prototypes in the earliest seed funding stage to those in later stages with customers. The competition is looking for companies in the following categories: Digitization of Energy, eMobility in Cities, and New Fuels. The judging panel for the event covers the spectrum of the energy transition ecosystem, from venture capitalists and corporate venture arms, to international energy providers.

"In the 15 years since we founded Cleantech.org, and built it up to 40,000 online members, we have striven to connect startups with the best venture capitalists in the industry," said Neal Dikeman, Chairman of Cleantech.org and a partner at one of the prize sponsors, Energy Transition Ventures . "We are excited to present the GS Beyond Energy Innovation Challenge and continue connecting great companies with influential investors. When you flatten the commercialization cycle in energy and put engineers and executives from passionate fast-moving startups and multinational energy companies in the same room, world-changing things tend to happen."

The challenge is supported by some of the top incubators and accelerators in the cleantech sector. Incubation Partners for the Cleantech.org GS Beyond Energy Innovation Challenge include Austin Technology Incubator at the University of Texas and Greentown Labs, the largest climatetech startup incubator in North America which is headquartered in Boston and recently launched its second location in Houstonanchoring the city's new innovation district. Accelerator Partners include Elemental Excelerator, a global non profit climate technology startup accelerator, and Third Derivative, a vertically-integrated, global climate tech acceleration program founded by RMI and New Energy Nexus.

"In order to combat the climate crisis we need to rapidly scale climatetech solutions across the greatest GHG emitting sectors and accelerate the energy transition. We're proud to see the GS Beyond Energy Challenge focusing on these areas," said Dr. Emily Reichert, CEO of Greentown Labs. "We're thrilled to support the program as an Incubation Partner and can't wait to meet and support the entrepreneurs who participate!"

Visit GSBeyondEnergy.com for details and to apply. Join the discussion on this competition or ask questions of the project managers in the Cleantech.org group .

About GS Beyond

GS Beyond is the open innovation arm of GS Group, focused on identifying and fostering innovation across various industries: energy and power, retail and commerce, and engineering and construction. Based in Silicon Valley, GS Beyond builds partnerships with companies developing cutting-edge technology and innovative ideas to change the world in positive, sustainable ways. For more information, visit gsbeyond.com .

About GS Futures

GS Futures is the US corporate venture arm of GS Group, focused on investing and collaborating with World-changing teams and innovations tackling Climate Change, Energy Transition and the Future of Commerce. By marrying the existing capabilities of GS with innovations spurring from the Venture ecosystem, GS Futures seek to collaboratively disrupt for a more positive future. For more information, visit gsfutures.vc.

About Cleantech.org

CleanTech.org is the leading portal for energy & environmental technology commercialization. Their mandate is to be the access point for the growing number of individuals and companies involved in the sector. They seek to allow these participants to develop networks and access information and resources to facilitate the commercialization of clean technologies through an interactive experience. For more information, visit www.cleantech.org .

FOR MORE ON:

SOURCE Cleantech.org

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JACKSON, Mich., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The Consumers Energy Foundation celebrated Earth Month by providing $500,000 to four projects that will help protect and restore Michigan's land, water and air. Consumers Energy is committed to building a sustainable future for Michigan. Its Clean Energy Plan eliminates coal and dramatically boosts renewable energy to help achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2040.

Huron Pines Resource Conservation & Development Council, Au Sable Institute, Southwest Michigan Land Conservancy and Bay Area Community Foundation are the second annual recipients of the Foundation's Planet Awards.

"Consumers Energy is dedicated to ensuring Michigan has world-class natural resources  and this means supporting the natural beauty that can be found throughout the state," said Brandon Hofmeister, president of the Consumers Energy Foundation. "Out of an overwhelming number of worthy applications, we are thrilled to announce and support the 2021 Planet Award winners. We are confident these projects will significantly help preserve and protect Michigan's treasured land, water and air for the enjoyment of current and many future generations."

The four winning projects are:

Gaylord, Mich. -- Huron Pines Resource Conservation & Development Council ($200,000)  The Protect Wild Places project will restore 5,000 acres of wildlife habitat and recreational land, and 150 miles of waterways and Great Lakes shoreline across 17 counties through online and in-person events and conservation efforts in partnership with community leaders, schools, organizations and residents.

--  The Protect Wild Places project will restore 5,000 acres of wildlife habitat and recreational land, and 150 miles of waterways and Great Lakes shoreline across 17 counties through online and in-person events and conservation efforts in partnership with community leaders, schools, organizations and residents. Mancelona, Mich. -- Au Sable Institute ($125,000)  The Good Things Grow Here project will engage local schools and mobilize 3,600 K -12 students to complete 30 habitat restoration projects in Northern Michigan by 2024. Each restoration project will install 1,000 native plants, for a total of 30,000 native plants installed over the next three years in Northern Michigan .

--  The Good Things Grow Here project will engage local schools and mobilize -12 students to complete 30 habitat restoration projects in by 2024. Each restoration project will install 1,000 native plants, for a total of 30,000 native plants installed over the next three years in . Kalamazoo, Mich. -- Southwest Michigan Land Conservancy ($100,000)  The project will restore rich habitat on the 140-acre Armintrout-Milbocker Nature Preserve through invasive species management, creation of a holistic management plan, and community access. The project will also lower pollution levels and increase filtration of waters that flow into the Kalamazoo River.

--  The project will restore rich habitat on the 140-acre Armintrout-Milbocker Nature Preserve through invasive species management, creation of a holistic management plan, and community access. The project will also lower pollution levels and increase filtration of waters that flow into the Kalamazoo River. Bay City, Mich. -- Bay Area Community Foundation ($75,000)  Funding will support the Lake Huron Forever Initiative's nature-based solutions and projects, community assessments, and training programs to advance water quality protection and healthy, sustainable communities on Lake Huron .

The Planet Awards are the first of three $500,000 grant allocations this year totaling $1.5 million. Additional requests for proposals will be announced later in the year for the $500,000 People Awards and Prosperity Awards. In 2020 the Planet Awards were put on pause to support COVID relief efforts. Planet Awards winners in 2019 were Michigan Nature Association, Conservation Resource Alliance, and Michigan United Conservation Clubs.

The Consumers Energy Foundation is the charitable arm of Consumers Energy, Michigan's largest energy provider. The Foundation enables communities to thrive and grow by investing in what's most important to Michigan  its people, our planet and Michigan's prosperity. In 2020, the Consumers Energy Foundation, Consumers Energy, its employees and retirees contributed over $19 million to Michigan nonprofits. For more information, visit www.ConsumersEnergy.com/foundation.

Consumers Energy, Michigan's largest energy provider, is the principal subsidiary of CMS Energy (NYSE: CMS), providing natural gas and/or electricity to 6.8 million of the state's 10 million residents in all 68 Lower Peninsula counties.

For more information about Consumers Energy, go to ConsumersEnergy.com.

Check out Consumers Energy on Social Media

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/consumersenergymichigan

Twitter: https://twitter.com/consumersenergy

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/consumersenergy

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/consumersenergy



SOURCE Consumers Energy

Related Links

http://www.consumersenergy.com


NEW YORK, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ --

Key takeaways

Additional broadband coverage, adoption, and speed is accretive for incremental growth of U.S. jobs and GDP, making the case for investment .

. A 10 percentage-point increase in broadband penetration in 2016 would have resulted in more than 806,000 additional jobs in 2019, or an average annual increase of 269,000 jobs.

in 2019, or an average annual increase of 269,000 jobs. More than 875,000 additional U.S. jobs and $186 billion more in economic output would have occurred in 2019 had there been a 10 percentage-point increase in broadband access in 2014.

would have occurred in 2019 had there been a 10 percentage-point increase in broadband access in 2014. Adding 10 Mbps to average download speeds in 2016 would have resulted in 139,400 additional jobs in 2019; however, the analysis also indicates diminishing returns with the rate of job growth slowing as speeds continue to increase.

Why this matters

The COVID-19 pandemic forced much of the U.S. population to trade classrooms, offices and conference rooms for at-home screens. Many Americans were left stranded by inadequate or unaffordable access to internet connectivity or mobile devices. This reality has resulted in a pivotal moment for the U.S. economy, with financial prosperity, educational opportunities and personal/professional productivity, depending on reliable, affordable and fast internet connectivity for all. More than $100 billion of infrastructure investment has been allocated by the U.S. government over the past decade to address this issue; however, the digital divide still presents a significant gap.

Deloitte today released a new report titled, "Broadband for all: charting a path to economic growth," that uses economic models to evaluate the relationship between broadband and economic growth. It proposes a geographic segmentation that distinguishes the specific needs of different under-served geographies, better reflecting their unique challenges. The report also provides insights into the benefits associated with various broadband speeds and adoption rates in order to optimize economic and social benefits, while reducing inefficiencies.

Investment doesn't always equate to outcomes

Optimism over the past 10 years that billions of private and public investment in underserved geographies for broadband access and adoption would help close the digital divide has waned as outcomes have often disappointed. Previous programs increased the number of people with access to the FCC's definition of broadband by less than 1% (<1%; 1.6 million people) between 2014 and 2019, partially as a result of the changing definition of broadband. The report notes:

Between 2010 and 2020, federal programs including USAC and Rural Digital Opportunity Fund, among others, spent approximately $107 billion .

. In 2014, the last year of the 4 Mbps downlink benchmark, 16 million Americans (approximately 5% of the U.S. population) did not have broadband services that met that standard.

In 2019, after five years and approximately $54 billion , 14.4 million Americans did not have broadband that met the new FCC speed threshold (25 Mbps downlink).

Key quote

"The pandemic hastened the pace of a decades-long trend in which innovative applications are increasingly essential to enhancing educational opportunities, organizing our lives, connecting with colleagues and friends, improving workplace productivity and enriching the quality of lives. If large segments of our population lack the necessary communications infrastructure to participate, progress will be increasingly difficult."

 Dan Littmann, principal, technology, media and

telecommunications, Deloitte Consulting LLP

The digital divide has significant economic impact

For years government, industry and academics have discussed the societal impact produced by closing the digital divide. To better understand the relationship between broadband and the U.S. economy, Deloitte developed economic models using publicly available information. The report's economic models confirmed three hypotheses:

Increased broadband penetration leads to economic growth: Deloitte's analysis indicates that a 10 percentage-point increase of broadband penetration in 2016 would have resulted in more than 806,000 additional jobs in 2019, or an average annual increase of 269,000 jobs. The report notes that broadband can allow for greater access to formal education, as well as expand the types of jobs available in a region, thereby raising the level of skills. Greater broadband availability leads to economic growth: Deloitte found a strong correlation between broadband availability and jobs, as well as GDP growth. The report notes that a 10 percentage-point increase in broadband access in 2014, would have resulted in more than 875,000 additional U.S. jobs and $186 billion more in economic output in 2019. That is an average of 175,000 jobs and $37.2 billion in output per year. Greater penetration of higher speed broadband leads to economic growth: Deloitte's analysis also shows that adoption of higher speeds drives noticeable improvements in job growth. Adding 10 Mbps to average download speeds in 2016 would have resulted in 139,400 additional jobs in 2019 or about 46,500 additional jobs per year. While the analysis shows that increasing speeds lead to greater job growth, it also indicates diminishing returns, with the rate of job growth slowing as speeds continue to increase. The report notes that this is a significant consideration. Diminishing returns should be considered when evaluating future speed mandates.

Key quote

"When it comes to the public or private broadband investments to close the digital divide, the economic benefits are clear, but will require stakeholders to navigate potentially competing priorities across emerging technologies that can meet needs in the near-term, the long-term desires for faster speeds, and financial support for devices and in-home equipment."

 Jack Fritz, principal, technology, media and

telecommunications, Deloitte Consulting LLP

Connect with us on Twitter @DeloitteTMT, or on LinkedIn: @DanLittmann @JackFritz.

About Deloitte

Deloitte provides industry-leading audit, consulting, tax and advisory services to many of the world's most admired brands, including nearly 90% of the Fortune 500 and more than 7,000 private companies. Our people come together for the greater good and work across the industry sectors that drive and shape today's marketplace  delivering measurable and lasting results that help reinforce public trust in our capital markets, inspire clients to see challenges as opportunities to transform and thrive, and help lead the way toward a stronger economy and a healthier society. Deloitte is proud to be part of the largest global professional services network serving our clients in the markets that are most important to them. Building on more than 175 years of service, our network of member firms spans more than 150 countries and territories. Learn how Deloitte's more than 330,000 people worldwide connect for impact at www.deloitte.com.

Deloitte refers to one or more of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, a UK private company limited by guarantee ("DTTL"), its network of member firms, and their related entities. DTTL and each of its member firms are legally separate and independent entities. DTTL (also referred to as "Deloitte Global") does not provide services to clients. In the United States, Deloitte refers to one or more of the US member firms of DTTL, their related entities that operate using the "Deloitte" name in the United States and their respective affiliates. Certain services may not be available to attest clients under the rules and regulations of public accounting. Please see www.deloitte.com/about to learn more about our global network of member firms.

SOURCE Deloitte

Related Links

http://www.deloitte.com


EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- EnduraData, leading file replication and data synchronization software company, releases version 5 of its EDpCloud (TM) real-time data replication and file mirroring software.

The new version of EDpCloud is a hybrid solution that allows government agencies and business enterprises to synchronize data securely between different physical machines, virtual machines, distributed data centers, remote offices, and various cloud providers.

Bidirectional real-time file replication and mirroring between Linux servers and virtual machines. File replication and synchronization between remote offices and geographic regions.

The software solution is available for Linux, Windows, Mac, and many UNIX-like operating systems. The software-only solution runs on existing hardware and supports different file systems and diverse storage subsystems.

The new version of the EDpCloud software provides unique bi-directional and multi-directional real-time file replication and synchronization. The solution mirrors data between systems in one location and between multiple geographic regions worldwide. EDpCloud aggregates data from various sites and moves and distributes data securely between multiple locations worldwide.

EDpCloud automates data protection as well as data delivery to various applications. After the initial setup, file changes are sent automatically, rapidly, and securely to one or more locations worldwide. The solution saves time, reduces costs, risks, and operator errors. In case of any failures, EnduraData file replication resumes from where it left off.

"We are pleased to provide a solid solution that allows businesses to deliver secure data when needed to where it is needed," said Rich Gruenhagen, VP of sales.

Start a proof of concept today by downloading a free trial copy of EDpCloud from enduradata.com.

About EnduraData

EnduraData is a software company based in Eden Prairie, Minnesota. The company was founded in 2006 to focus on data replication and data management solutions for businesses and government agencies.

EnduraData's EDpCloud software solutions and services help enterprises synchronize and move data automatically, securely, and seamlessly between data centers, branch offices, different cloud providers, different operating systems, and different storage systems.

EDpCloud is certified by Red Hat for Linux.

EnduraData, EDpCloud, and EnduraData logo are trademarks of EnduraData, Inc. All product names mentioned are trademarks of their respective owners.

Contact information:

Rich Gruenhagen

952-746-4160

[email protected]

SOURCE EnduraData

Related Links

http://enduradata.com


With over 100 years of Mexican brewing tradition, Estrella Jalisco seeks to balance embracing contemporary culture and change, while still valuing and maintaining important traditions. This dynamic is mirrored in many Mexican-American families and communities in the U.S. today. "Progressive values are often at odds with more traditional views  particularly when it comes to gender identity and sexual orientation," says Carlos Samaniego, founder and director of Mariachi Arcoiris.

According to a University of Chicago survey, more than one in five Latinx millennials identify as LGBTQ+, more than any other ethnicity group. Yet, 61% of Latinx millennials polled said there remains "a lot" of discrimination against LGBTQ+ members in their community.

"Mariachi Arcoiris was founded as a way to create a safe space for professional LGBTQ+ musicians to honor their traditions, authentic selves and play great music. We couldn't be more proud to partner with Estrella Jalisco, a brand that shares in our commitment to inclusivity," explains Samaniego. "Together, we hope to inspire all generations to appreciate the beauty of this traditional music  and open the eyes of many to the artistry of this group of LGBTQ+ individuals."

To illustrate Mariachi Arcoiris's progressive spin on Mexican tradition, Estrella Jalisco released a short film featuring a multigenerational celebration with a surprise performance from the group. The footage captures Hispanic families' reactions and features real conversations about machismo culture. It's directed by Los Angeles-raised Enkrypt, who belongs to the LGBTQ+ community and grew up listening to mariachi.

Estrella Jalisco wants to keep the conversation going as fans celebrate Cinco de Mayo and Pride by offering five lucky winners the chance to receive a complimentary performance from Mariachi Arcoiris from the comfort of home. Fans can enter for a chance to book the group by commenting on Estrella Jalisco's post on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram with a song they think needs a mariachi cover.

"At Estrella Jalisco, we believe a more inclusive and colorful world is a brighter world," says Jayden Kahl, Director of Marketing at Anheuser-Busch. "We're honored to be partnering with a band that has enlightened so many people about what it means to be Mexican-American and LGBTQ+ today."

Together with Mariachi Arcoiris, the brand is one step closer to achieving their goal of spreading brightness and color to communities across the United States.

Follow Estrella Jalisco's journey at www.EstrellaJalisco.com and on social media at @EstrellaJalisco on Instagram and Twitter.

About Estrella Jalisco

With more than 100 years of Mexican brewing tradition, Estrella Jalisco is a refreshing, authentic Mexican Lager beer from Guadalajara, Jalisco, and contains 4.5 percent alcohol by volume (ABV). It is best enjoyed in a wide-top pilsner glass to bring out its true flavor and aroma while allowing drinkers to appreciate the color and carbonation of the beer. Estrella Jalisco was launched in the U.S. in 2015 and it's quickly becoming a Mexican favorite among cerveza aficionados. Estrella Jalisco is available in bottles and foil top cans, in addition to canned mango and tropical chamoy micheladas for a colorful spin on a Mexican classic.

About Mariachi Arcoiris

Mariachi Arcoiris de Los Angeles is the world's first LGBTQ+ Mariachi. Founded in 2000 and led by director Carlos Samaniego, the group includes as one of its founding members the first transgender female in the history of mariachi, Natalia Melendez. This historic and dynamic musical ensemble performs at events across the globe including Pride events as well as same-sex and "traditional" weddings. Mariachi Arcoiris represents the traditions of Mexico, priding itself in providing its public with the utmost professionalism while creating a safe space for professional LGBTQ+ musicians to be their authentic selves and play great music. For bookings, visit: https://www.mariachiarcoiris.com.

About Anheuser-Busch

For more than 165 years, Anheuser-Busch has carried on a legacy of brewing great-tasting, high-quality beers that have satisfied beer drinkers for generations. Today, we own and operate more than 120 facilities, including breweries, wholesaler distribution centers, agricultural facilities and packaging plants, and have more than 19,000 colleagues across the United States. We are home to several of America's most recognizable beer brands, including Budweiser, Bud Light, Michelob ULTRA and Stella Artois, as well as a number of regional brands that provide beer drinkers with a choice of the best-tasting craft beers in the industry. From responsible drinking programs and emergency drinking water donations to industry-leading sustainability efforts, we are guided by our unwavering commitment to supporting the communities we call home. For more information, visit www.anheuser-busch.com or follow Anheuser-Busch on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

Media Contacts

Laura Alito

[email protected]

Allison Wilson

[email protected]

SOURCE Estrella Jalisco
NEW YORK, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- First Sentier Investors, a leading global asset manager and one of the world's largest infrastructure investors, today announced the appointment of Karine Rouge as a director on the firm's direct infrastructure team.

Rouge brings more than 15 years of industry experience managing large industrial business units, including integration projects and transformation initiatives, as well as mergers and acquisitions, to First Sentier's expanding North America direct infrastructure investment team in New York. She reports to John Ma, partner and head of direct infrastructure investments, North America. Her position is new, and she will focus on sectors including water, wastewater and energy transition.

"We see growing opportunities for investments in water and water treatment infrastructure, especially with greater focus on a more circular economy in the U.S. and Canada," Ma said. "Karine's background and capabilities are a great fit for our team."

Before First Sentier Investors, Rouge was chief transformation officer for Suez Water Technologies & Solutions, based in New York, and a senior executive at the Paris-based water treatment provider. She joined Suez in 2010 and during her tenure built and led global and diverse teams across a variety of businesses in Paris and New York.

"First Sentier Investors is widely recognized as a leader in infrastructure investing, and I'm delighted to join my new colleagues and help build on the firm's success," Rouge said.

Earlier, Rouge worked as an investment banker for Goldman Sachs in South Africa, France, and the U.K. She holds a master's degree in quantitative economics, with honors, from the Paris School of Economics and a master's degree in management from the HEC School of Management in Paris.

First Sentier Investors manages more than US$12.7 billion of direct, or unlisted, infrastructure investments across the U.K., continental Europe, Australia, New Zealand and North America, with a focus on mid-market companies in the transportation and utility sectors worldwide.

Since 2019, First Sentier Investors has completed several direct infrastructure investments in the United States, including Patriot Rail and Ports , the Rialto Bioenergy Facility , and Terra-Gen .

With Rouge, First Sentier's New York-based North America direct infrastructure investment team now has six members.

Media inquiries

Margaret Kirch Cohen

CL-Media Relations LLC

E: [email protected]

T: +1 847 507 2229

Richard Chimberg

CL-Media Relations LLC

E: [email protected]

T: + 1 617 312 4281

About First Sentier Investors

First Sentier Investors manages US$180.3 billion in assets (as of March 31, 2021) on behalf of institutional investors, pension funds, wholesale distributors, investment platforms, financial advisers and their clients worldwide.

The firm operates as a standalone global investment management business with offices across Europe, the Americas, and Asia Pacific. First Sentier Investors' expertise spans a range of asset classes and specialist investment sectors focused on delivering sustainable investment success based on responsible investment principles.

Formerly First State Investments, the firm was acquired from the Commonwealth Bank of Australia in August 2019 by Mitsubishi UFJ Trust and Banking Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, Inc.

SOURCE First Sentier Investors
Calima Energy Ltd's (ASX:CE1) core asset lies within a liquids-rich sweet-spot of the Montney Formation in Northeast British Columbia, Canada.

Calima Energy resumes trading after raising A$37.9 million and acquiring oil producer

Calima Energy Ltd (ASX:CE1) has resumed trading on the ASX as a conventional oil and gas producer focused on generating free cash flow from the development of assets in western Canada.

This follows a strongly supported capital raising which raised A$37.9 million and the acquisition of Blackspur Oil Corp.



Two shallow producing fields

Calima has taken advantage of the troubled Canadian oil sector to acquire the highly indebted Blackspur Oil Corp at a very favourable price.

Blackspur's Brooks and Thorsby assets are two shallow producing fields (50-70% oil) in Alberta with about 60 producing wells and 26 mmboe (million barrels of oil equivalent) 2P reserves.

Calima will continue to focus on development drilling to achieve about 3,000 boe/d (barrels of oil equivalent per day) on the Brooks and Thorsby assets.
CHESTERBROOK, Pa., ROUND ROCK, Texas, and SAN FRANCISCO, May 2, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Francisco Partners, a leading global investment firm that specializes in partnering with technology businesses, and TPG Capital, the private equity platform of global alternative asset firm TPG, have entered into a definitive agreement with Dell Technologies (NYSE:DELL) to acquire Boomi, a leading provider of cloud-based integration platform as a service (iPaaS). The cash transaction is valued at $4 billion and is expected to close by the end of 2021, subject to customary closing conditions. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

"Boomi has flourished as part of Dell Technologies, growing exponentially since we acquired them in 2010. This proposed transaction positions Boomi for its next phase of growth and is the right move for both companies, our shared customers and partners," said Jeff Clarke, vice chairman and chief operating officer of Dell Technologies. "For us, we're focused on fueling growth by continuing to modernize our core infrastructure and PC businesses and expanding in high-priority areas including hybrid and private cloud, edge, telecom and APEX. All designed to help organizations thrive in the do-from-anywhere economy."

"Boomi pioneered the iPaaS category and we have tracked their growth for a number of years," said Dipanjan Deb, co-founder and chief executive officer, and Brian Decker, partner, at Francisco Partners. "The ability to integrate and connect data and workflows across any combination of applications or domains is a critical business capability, and we strongly believe that Boomi is well positioned to help companies of all sizes turn data into their most valuable asset."

"The need for automation and data integration across applications has never been greater," said Nehal Raj, partner, and Art Heidrich, principal, at TPG Capital. "Boomi's cloud-native platform enables enterprises to streamline business processes and is essential for driving digital transformation. TPG has a long history of partnering with corporate leaders like Dell Technologies to carve out and grow dynamic technology businesses. We look forward to working with the teams at Boomi and Francisco Partners to accelerate the company's growth as an independent entity."

Boomi is trusted by more than 15,000 customers globally to discover, manage and orchestrate data. As the pioneer of fueling intelligent use of data, Boomi makes it quick and easy for organizations to connect applications, processes and people across a range of locations and devices  completing projects in weeks, not months. With the company's low-code application and data integration platform, and data quality, discovery and readiness capabilities, customers can create integrated experiences and instantly connect people to what they want  making it faster and easier to unify data, systems, applications, processes, people, enterprises and organizations globally.

"I am incredibly proud that through innovation, passion and relentless execution, the Boomi team has created a unified platform for the modern-day hybrid IT landscape that thousands of customers worldwide depend on to digitally transform their business," said Chris McNabb, chief executive officer of Boomi. "By partnering with two tier-one investment firms like Francisco Partners and TPG, we can accelerate our ability for our customers to use data to drive competitive advantage. In this next phase of growth, Boomi will be in a position of strength to further advance our innovation and market trajectory while delivering even more value to our customers."

Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC and DBO Partners LLC acted as financial advisors to Dell Technologies. Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP acted as legal advisor to Dell Technologies. Barclays, Citi and J.P. Morgan Securities LLC acted as financial advisors to Francisco Partners and TPG Capital. Ropes & Gray LLP, Paul Hastings LLP and Kirkland & Ellis acted as legal advisors to Francisco Partners and TPG Capital.

About Francisco Partners

Francisco Partners is a leading global investment firm that specializes in partnering with technology and technology-enabled businesses. Since its launch over 20 years ago, Francisco Partners has invested in more than 300 technology companies, making it one of the most active and longstanding investors in the technology industry. With more than $25 billion in assets under management, the firm invests in opportunities where its deep sectoral knowledge and operational expertise can help companies realize their full potential. For more information on Francisco Partners, please visit www.franciscopartners.com.

About TPG

TPG is a leading global alternative asset firm founded in 1992 with more than $91 billion of assets under management and offices in Beijing, Fort Worth, Hong Kong, London, Luxembourg, Melbourne, Mumbai, New York, San Francisco, Seoul, Singapore, and Washington, DC. TPG's investment platforms are across a wide range of asset classes, including private equity, growth equity, impact investing, real estate, secondaries, and public equity. TPG aims to build dynamic products and options for its investors while also instituting discipline and operational excellence across the investment strategy and performance of its portfolio. For more information on TPG, please visit http://www.tpg.com.

About Boomi

Boomi instantly connects everyone to everything with its cloud-native, unified, open and intelligent platform. Boomi's integration platform as a service (iPaaS) is trusted by more than 15,000 customers globally for its speed, ease-of-use and lower total cost of ownership. As the pioneer at fueling intelligent use of data, Boomi's vision is to make it quick and easy for customers and partners to discover, manage and orchestrate data, while you connect applications, processes, and people for better, faster outcomes. For more information about Boomi, visit www.boomi.com.

About Dell Technologies

Dell Technologies (NYSE:DELL) helps organizations and individuals build their digital future and transform how they work, live and play. The company provides customers with the industry's broadest and most innovative technology and services portfolio for the data era.

Disclosure Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Statements in this communication that relate to future results and events are forward-looking statements and are based on Dell Technologies' current expectations. The words "may," "will," "anticipate," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "plan," "aim," "seek," and similar expressions as they relate to Dell Technologies or its management are intended to identify these forward-looking statements. Factors or risks that could cause our actual results to differ materially from the results we anticipate include, but are not limited to: (i) the failure to consummate or delay in consummating the proposed transaction; (ii) the risk that a condition to closing of the proposed transaction may not be satisfied; (iii) the risk that a regulatory approval that may be required for the proposed transaction is delayed, is not obtained, or is obtained subject to conditions that are not anticipated; and (iv) the effect of the announcement of the proposed transaction on Dell Technologies' relationships with its customers, operating results and business generally. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date as of which such statement is made, and, except as required by law, Dell Technologies undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement after the date as of which such statement was made, whether to reflect changes in circumstances or expectations, the occurrence of unanticipated events, or otherwise.

SOURCE Dell Technologies

Related Links

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CHICAGO, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- According to the new market research report "Frozen Bakery Products Market by Type (Bread, Pizza Crusts, Cakes & Pastries), Distribution Channel (Conventional Stores, Specialty Stores), and Form of Consumption (Ready-to-Proof, Ready-to-Bake, Ready-to-Eat) - Global Forecast to 2026", published by MarketsandMarkets, the global Frozen Bakery Products Market is projected to reach USD 29.5 billion by 2026, from USD 22.3 billion in 2021, at a CAGR of 5.8% during the forecast period. The busy lifestyle of consumers has contributed to the growth of the bread manufacturing industry to produce new products that could cater to the rise in demand from consumers. The increase in consumption of frozen bakery products in the emerging markets of Asia Pacific and Latin America has also led to a rise in the sales of frozen bakery products. The demand for frozen bakery products in developing regions is driven by the increase in disposable income.

Download PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=789

Cakes & pastries are the major by type segment having the highest CAGR of the frozen bakery products market during the forecast period.

A pastry differs from bread in terms of fat content, contributing to the flaky texture. Pastry dishes include pies, tarts, sponge cakes, croissants, and muffins. The frozen cake is a form of sweet-baked dessert consisting of flavored ingredients, such as fruit extracts. Specialty cakes are gaining popularity, with a high starch-gluten ratio and low-protein wheat. They are further segmented into sponge cakes, muffins, and cookies. Currently, the frozen bakery product market players utilize new technologies to achieve the required/recommended levels of freezing for cakes. In countries such as the US, Canada, and Mexico, frozen cakes have been at the forefront among other frozen bakery products.

By distribution channel, the conventional stores dominated the frozen bakery products market in 2020.

Conventional stores have the potential to be a prominent distributional channel for frozen bakery products. Niche retailers among these stores have also realized the opportunity to establish an effective retail chain. Earlier, these companies marketed their line of products only through exclusive stores situated in prime locations. However, these companies now understand the dynamic changes in consumer preferences for healthier food products. Hence, a majority of the companies are marketing their products across regions through all possible channels to ensure sustainability in the global market. Thus, distribution channels play a vital role in bridging the gap between key players of frozen bakery products and the end consumers in the market.

Browse in-depth TOC on "Frozen Bakery Products Market"

190  Tables

57  Figures

232  Pages

Asia Pacific region is projected to witness the highest growth in the frozen bakery products market by 2026.

The Asia Pacific region is among the fastest-growing regions for frozen bakery products. The food & beverage industry has contributed significantly to the market growth in this region. Due to the growing population, rising incomes, and increasing urbanization the market growth is significant. These factors are projected to support the growth of niche markets, such as frozen bakery products. The market is driven by the increase in demand for convenience food products in developing countries such as India, China, Japan, and Australia. In the Asia Pacific region, China accounted for the largest share in the frozen bakery products market in 2020.

Request for Customization: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestCustomizationNew.asp?id=789

Key players:

The key players in this market include Grupo Bimbo (Mexico), General Mills Inc. (US), Aryzta Ag (Switzerland), Europastry, S.A. (Spain), Conagra Brands, Inc. (US), Associated British Foods Plc (UK), Kellogg Company (US), Lantmannen Unibake International (Denmark), Vandemoortele Nv (Belgium), Premier Foods Group Ltd. (UK), Cargill, Incorporated (US), Flowers Foods (GA), Bridgford Foods Corporation (US), Coles Quality Foods Inc. (MI), and Dawn Food Products Inc (MI).

Related Reports:

Frozen Food Market by Product (Fruits & Vegetables, Dairy, Meat & Seafood), Type (Raw Material, Half Cooked), Consumption, Distribution Channel, and Region (North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, South America, and MEA) - Global Forecast to 2025

https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/global-frozen-and-convenience-food-market-advanced-technologies-and-global-market-130.html

Gluten-free Products Market by Type (Bakery products, Snacks & RTE products, Condiments & dressings, Pizzas & pastas), Distribution channel (Conventional stores, Specialty stores and Drugstores & Pharmacies), Form & Region - Global Forecast to 2025

https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/gluten-free-products-market-738.html

Browse Adjacent Reports: Food and Beverage Market Research Reports & Consulting

About MarketsandMarkets

MarketsandMarkets provides quantified B2B research on 30,000 high growth niche opportunities/threats which will impact 70% to 80% of worldwide companies' revenues. Currently servicing 7500 customers worldwide including 80% of global Fortune 1000 companies as clients. Almost 75,000 top officers across eight industries worldwide approach MarketsandMarkets for their painpoints around revenues decisions.

Our 850 fulltime analyst and SMEs at MarketsandMarkets are tracking global high growth markets following the "Growth Engagement Model  GEM". The GEM aims at proactive collaboration with the clients to identify new opportunities, identify most important customers, write "Attack, avoid and defend" strategies, identify sources of incremental revenues for both the company and its competitors. MarketsandMarkets now coming up with 1,500 MicroQuadrants (Positioning top players across leaders, emerging companies, innovators, strategic players) annually in high growth emerging segments. MarketsandMarkets is determined to benefit more than 10,000 companies this year for their revenue planning and help them take their innovations/disruptions early to the market by providing them research ahead of the curve.

MarketsandMarkets's flagship competitive intelligence and market research platform, "Knowledge Store" connects over 200,000 markets and entire value chains for deeper understanding of the unmet insights along with market sizing and forecasts of niche markets.

Contact:

Mr. Aashish Mehra

MarketsandMarkets INC.

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Suite 430

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USA: +1-888-600-6441

Email: [email protected]

Research Insight: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ResearchInsight/frozen-bakery-market.asp

Visit Our Website: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com

Content Source: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/PressReleases/frozen-bakery.asp

SOURCE MarketsandMarkets
In addition to overseeing one of the most highly-acclaimed real estate practices in the country, Gewurz has a large practice representing real estate developers, institutional and private equity lenders, and U.S. and foreign investors in their diverse and complicated real estate matters. He is known for his skill at creating teams where everyone's talents can be utilized to achieve the best results for the client.

Some of Gewurz's recent trailblazing projects include helping to negotiate a $700 million public-private partnership to build the first air-rights development over the Massachusetts Turnpike in Boston in 40 years. The seven-year project brought together a state authority, a European hotel brand, foreign capital, an anchor tenant, a construction lender, and architects and engineers. The Goulston & Storrs' team completed five independent deals and closings simultaneously  for the air rights, construction loan, anchor tenant lease, hotel development, and building of the deck  in the middle of the pandemic.

For another client, Gewurz and his team have helped secure over $1.5 billion in construction financing to date to purchase and develop one of the Boston area's single largest development projects with 5.2 million square feet of commercial and multifamily space, infrastructure, and public amenities across 18 parcels and 43 acres. For a long-time Canadian client, Gewurz and his team have worked with the company to invest over $22 billion in U.S. real estate over the past 18 years. Currently, Gewurz is helping the client become a leader in the build-to-rent, single-family housing market, using innovative structures and financing transactions for this fast-emerging asset class.

Gewurz received his J.D. from New York University School of Law in 1996; his M.Sc., with distinction, from The London School of Economics and Political Science in 1993; and his B.A., summa cum laude, from McGill University in 1992.

About Goulston & Storrs

Collaboration is not just a pillar of our strategy; it is the key to our competitive advantage and approach to clients, community, and each other. As you get to know us, you will find that Goulston & Storrs is a modern, vibrant firm where the practice of law is pursued with deep expertise and diligence. It is a place where serious business is conducted with genuine camaraderie. It is a place where mutual respect drives open discussion, fresh ideas, and optimal solutions for our clients.

To learn more about our attorneys and clients, please visit our website or sign up to receive real-time news here.

Contact:

Liz Sobe Amy Blumenthal Director of Strategic Growth Blumenthal & Associates PR Goulston & Storrs PC (617) 879-1511 (617) 574-0556 [email protected] [email protected]



SOURCE Goulston & Storrs

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HOUSTON, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Expo Contratista, the pioneer in organizing Hispanic-focused construction expos, proudly announced today that Mustang Cat will be the official Title Sponsor for their 2021 Expo Contratista, which will be held October 2 and 3 in Houston's Humble Civic Center +Arena. Founded in 2018, Expo Contratista seeks to specifically promote Hispanic contractors and trade organizations through their convention-style expos held in Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio. Historically, the turnout to these events has been around between 5,000-7,000 visitors, but over 10,000 attendees are expected for the 2021 Expo, the largest ever. This event promotes Hispanic small businesses and enables them to showcase their services, network with others in the industry, display product offerings, and interact with thousands of potential customers. Past participating businesses include LOWES, AT&T, and Surfkoat just to name a few.

Expo Contratista

Mustang Cat's support as the official Title Sponsor of Houston Expo Contratista 2021 furthers the company's commitment to promote, support, and connect with the Hispanic construction industry in South Texas. For almost 70 years, the company has offered heavy machinery products and services to the construction industry. "We are so pleased to have Mustang Cat as a Title Sponsor. The partnership truly speaks to Mustang Cats' core value of being fully committed to their customers, many of which are Hispanic-owned small businesses located right here in Houston," said Sergio Terreros, founder and lead organizer for Expo Contratista. At Expo Contratista 2021, Mustang Cat will be showcasing the new line of Cat compact equipment which features cutting-edge technology.

In the state of Texas, the Hispanic demographic makes up a huge percentage of the construction field, in fact, there are more Hispanic contractors than any other demographic. Expo Contratista conducted a survey at a recent expo that found that 63% of respondents were actually business owners. The company expects that these trends will continue to rise and anticipates the number of attendees to continue to grow at an exponential rate, offering a tremendous amount of value for sponsors, exhibitors, and attendees alike.

About Mustang Cat

Mustang Cat has been the authorized Caterpillar dealer for Southeast Texas for 69 years. The company provides heavy machinery, power systems, product support and rental services to customers in the industrial equipment industry. With its headquarters in Houston, Mustang Cat has branch locations providing sales, rental and service of the full Cat line of machines and engines to customers in 35 counties in the surrounding region. The company also sells Cat used engines and equipment worldwide. For more information, visit www.mustangcat.com.

About Expo Contratista

Expo Contratista was founded in 2018 by Sergio Terreros. The company organizes Hispanic-focused construction expos, promoting small businesses and introducing participants to thousands of potential customers and partners. Expo Contratista is currently active in Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio, with plans to expand further in the coming years. Information about Expo Contratista at www.expocontratista.com.

Sergio Terreros

[email protected]

Related Files

Contratista PR 2 - Mustang Edited.pdf

Related Images

mustang-cat.jpg

Mustang Cat

SOURCE Expo Contratista
SANTA CLARA, Calif., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Hitachi America, Ltd., the North American regional headquarters of Hitachi, Ltd. (TSE:6501), and Hitachi Vantara, the digital infrastructure, data management, and digital solutions subsidiary of Hitachi, Ltd., today announced Hitachi Social Innovation Forum 2021 AMERICAS (HSIF) will be held on May 25-27, 2021.

The free three-day virtual event will showcase visionaries and practitioners who are leading and deploying data-driven strategies to solve some of the toughest problems in industry, society and the environment.

Get a front-row seat to the future of social innovation.

Register now for Hitachi Social Innovation Forum 2021 AMERICAS

Executives and experts from Hitachi Group businesses will be joined by digital leaders from business, academia, government and industry for keynotes, digital masterclasses, plus industry, society and technology themed programming.

Speakers at Hitachi Social Innovation Forum Americas 2021 include:

Toshiaki Higashihara , President & CEO Hitachi, Ltd

, President & CEO Gajen Kandiah , CEO, Hitachi Vantara

, CEO, Dr. Jennifer Hall Chief, Data Science, Co-Director, Institute for Precision Cardiovascular Medicine , American Heart Association

Chief, Data Science, Co-Director, Institute for Precision Cardiovascular Medicine Rachel S. Hutter , SVP International Facilities and Operations Services, Worldwide Safety and Health, and Engineering, The Walt Disney Company

, SVP International Facilities and Operations Services, Worldwide Safety and Health, and Engineering, Todd Hewlin , Partner, Chasm Group , and author of ' Goliath's Revenge, How Established Companies Turn the Tables on Digital Disruptors'

, Partner, , and author of ' Hicham Abdessamad , Chairman, Hitachi America , Ltd ., Chief Executive of Hitachi Global Social Innovation Business, Hitachi, Ltd .

, Chairman, ., Chief Executive of Hitachi Global Social Innovation Business, . Duane Hughes , CEO, Workhorse

, CEO, Juan Santos , SVP Brand Experience & Innovation, Tavistock Group

, SVP Brand Experience & Innovation, Alistair Dormer , Executive Vice President and Executive Officer and Chief Environmental Officer, Hitachi, Ltd.

, Executive Vice President and Executive Officer and Chief Environmental Officer, Topher White , CEO, Rainforest Connection

, CEO, Jon Snoddy , SVP, Imagineering R&D, Show, Ride & Technology, The Walt Disney Company

, SVP, Imagineering R&D, Show, Ride & Technology, Megan Smith , former Chief Technology Officer under President Obama

, former Chief Technology Officer under Andreas Weigend , former Chief Scientist of Amazon.com , and author of ' Data for the People

, former Chief Scientist of , and author of ' Alok Sharma , President, COP26

Hitachi Social Innovation Forum Digital Masterclass speakers will include:

R ( Ray) Wang , CEO, Constellation Research

, CEO, Michele Goetz , Vice President and Principal Researcher, Forrester

, Vice President and Principal Researcher, Maribel Lopez , Founder, Lopez Research

, Founder, Tim Chou , Board Member and Stanford University Cloud Lecturer

, Board Member and Cloud Lecturer Martin Mocker, MIT Sloan Center for Information Systems Research

for Information Systems Research Vijay Gurbaxani , Director of the Center for Digital Transformation at Paul Merage School of Business, UC Irvine

, Director of the Center for Digital Transformation at Paul Merage School of Business, Ganesh Bell, Board Member, Investor, CDO and Software CEO

"COVID-19 has affected nearly every aspect of our personal and professional life, with ripple effects that have challenged industries to assess and accelerate their digital initiatives," said Gajen Kandiah, chief executive officer, Hitachi Vantara. "The ability to achieve data-driven outcomes is critical to our clients' ability to pivot their business and capitalize on an increasing digital-centric economy. At Hitachi Social Innovation Forum Americas, we will tell their stories and explain how data-driven leaders are changing the world in business, society and the environment."

"At Hitachi, we view Social Innovation as the practice of leveraging innovation, digital technology, domain knowledge and products to solve challenges for both the individual consumer and society at large," said Hicham Abdessamad, chairman, Hitachi America, Ltd., and chief executive of Hitachi Global Social Innovation Business. "As a global leader in advancing the digital transformation of social infrastructure, our goal at HSIF is to bring thinkers and doers together to solve problems, address existing and future environmental challenges and showcase the digital solutions that we are successfully developing throughout the Hitachi Group ecosystem. We are excited to show how Hitachi, its partners, and customers are working together to drive adoption of new digital solutions and technologies that empower companies to adapt and transition into this new era of sustainability. Whether you're an OEM, an energy provider, an IT Company or a government agency, we all have roles to play to make this a reality."

Roundtable discussions, themed sessions and thought-provoking keynote presentations will provide opportunities for attendees to hear firsthand accounts of successes and lessons learned from peers, partners, analysts, clients and industry leaders Hitachi Social Innovation Forum 2021 AMERICAS will offer three different tracks:

Business track focuses on how to propel your business forward; Society track focuses on using data to create social, environmental, and economic advantages; and Technology track spotlights how companies can revolutionize with data strategies that adapt to our ever-changing world.

Resources

Connect with Hitachi Vantara

About Hitachi, America, Ltd.

Hitachi America, Ltd., headquartered in Santa Clara, CA, is a subsidiary of Hitachi, Ltd. (TSE: 6501). Hitachi America  the North American regional headquarters of Hitachi, Ltd.  and the 106 Hitachi Group companies in North America, employ over 28,800 people as of March 2020. The company drives digital innovation across five sectors - Mobility, Smart Life, Industry, Energy and IT - through Lumada, Hitachi's advanced digital solution for turning data into insights that drive digital innovation. The Hitachi Group is focused on its Social Innovation Business, which combines information technology (IT), operational technology (OT) and products to deliver solutions that increase social, environmental and economic value for its customers. For information on other Hitachi Group companies in North America, please visit http://www.hitachi.us/ (the United States), http://www.hitachi.ca/ (Canada) and http://www.hitachi.com.mx/en (Mexico).

About Hitachi Vantara

Hitachi Vantara, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Hitachi, Ltd., guides our customers from what's now to what's next by solving their digital challenges. Working alongside each customer, we apply our unmatched industrial and digital capabilities to their data and applications to benefit both business and society. More than 80% of the Fortune 100 trust Hitachi Vantara to help them develop new revenue streams, unlock competitive advantages, lower costs, enhance customer experiences, and deliver social and environmental value. Visit us at www.hitachivantara.com.

About Hitachi, Ltd.

Hitachi, Ltd. (TSE: 6501), headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, is focused on its Social Innovation Business that combines information technology (IT), operational technology (OT) and products. The company's consolidated revenues for fiscal year 2019 (ended March 31, 2020) totaled 8,767.2 billion yen ($80.4 billion), and it employed approximately 301,000 people worldwide. Hitachi drives digital innovation across five sectors  Mobility, Smart Life, Industry, Energy and IT  through Lumada, Hitachi's advanced digital solutions, services, and technologies for turning data into insights to drive digital innovation. Its purpose is to deliver solutions that increase social, environmental and economic value for its customers. For more information on Hitachi, please visit the company's website at https://www.hitachi.com .

SOURCE Hitachi Vantara Corporation

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SOLON, Ohio, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Intelligent Mobile Support, Inc. (www.imobilesupport.com), the industry's leading provider of software tools to grow contractor businesses, today launched Sales Builder Pro 8 which now includes Deal Manager, a powerful new feature set to help improve the sales process for busy HVAC contractors and other in-home service providers.

Deal Manager makes it easier for contractors to track pending proposals, receive customer approval remotely, and communicate and collaborate across their organizations. From comfort consultants to office workers, sales managers, install managers, and owners, Deal Manger helps contractors build a better business.

By simplifying how information is captured, organized, stored, and shared across the company the comprehensive Deal Manager tool makes it easy to track and manage job proposals and installs. Deal Manager ultimately helps contractors increase win rates, improve profitability, and be more productive.

New Deal Manager features include Pending Deal Search, Remote Acceptance, Notes, and Document Management. Together these features enable contractors and their teams to manage their sales processes more effectively while also managing the jobs and installs they have won.

"Sales Builder Pro was created to help residential contractors build a better business," says John Steidley, founder and CEO of Intelligent Mobile Support, Inc. "This year looks to a very busy year for residential contractors. Demand is up, the labor market is tight, and supply chains are stressed - a perfect storm for a stressful season. So, we are delighted to get the productivity enhancements of Deal Manager out to contractors in time for the very busy season ahead. It is our way of saying thank you to our customers."

Advanced capabilities of Deal Manager include:

Pending Deal Search  a fully automated, prioritized sales call "to do" list.

 a fully automated, prioritized sales call "to do" list. Remote Deal Acceptance  a simple proposal acceptance process to win more deals faster.

 a simple proposal acceptance process to win more deals faster. Improved Deal Management - improved sales, office, and install productivity.

- improved sales, office, and install productivity. Deal Notes  apply color-coded comments to deals to share important updates with your team.

 apply color-coded comments to deals to share important updates with your team. Documents  upload and store deal-related documents to ensure that all job-related documents are just a click away.

 upload and store deal-related documents to ensure that all job-related documents are just a click away. Proposal Status  filter proposals by Accepted, Pending, Declined, and Obsolete to quickly find what you need.

 filter proposals by Accepted, Pending, Declined, and Obsolete to quickly find what you need. Reports and Analytics - updated, improved, and expanded.

Deal Manager launched today on the Sales Builder Pro server platform. The iPad tablet app is expected in the Apple Play Store on May 4, 2021. The Android app is expected to be released in August 2021.

Deal Manager is available as a standard feature included at no additional cost, for all Sales Builder Pro packages  Essential, Preferred and Premium.

For more information on Sales Builder Pro and Deal Manager visit: http://info.imobilesupport.com/blog/deal-manager-to-work-more-efficiently

About Intelligent Mobile Support, Inc.

Intelligent Mobile Support, Inc. was founded to improve the productivity and profitability of HVAC and other in-home service contractors. Led by that vision and inputs from hundreds of contractors, the company created the Sales Builder Pro family of products. Learn more at www.imobilesupport.com.

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SOURCE Intelligent Mobile Support

Related Links

http://www.imobilesupport.com/


MONTREAL, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ - IOU FINANCIAL INC. ("IOU Financial" or the "Company") (TSXV: IOU), a leading online lender to small businesses (IOUFinancial.com), announced today the grant of options pursuant to its Stock Option Plan.

The Company granted options entitling its senior officers, directors, and certain employees and consultants to acquire up to an aggregate of 2,625,000 Common Shares of the Corporation ("Shares") at an exercise price of $0.12. These options have a term of five years from the date of grant with one-third (1/3) vesting immediately and one-third (1/3) which will vest on each of the first and second anniversaries of the date of grant, except that 200,000 of these options, granted to Rose of Sharon Capital Corporation (a company engaged by IOU to assist it with a variety of capital markets and corporate development-related projects, including the provision of certain investor relation services), will vest as follows: one-twelfth (1/12) of the options will vest at each three (3) month period during the first 12 months of the date of grant, and one-third (1/3) vest on each of the first and second anniversaries of the date of grant.

About IOU Financial Inc.

IOU Financial Inc. is a wholesale lender that provides quick and easy access to growth capital to small businesses through a network of preferred brokers across the US and Canada. Built on a proprietary technology platform that connects underwriters, merchants and brokers in real time, IOU Financial has become a trusted alternative to banks by underwriting US$873 million in loans to fund small business growth since 2009. To learn more about IOU Financial's corporate history, financial products, or to join our broker network please visit www.IOUFinancial.com.

Forward Looking Statements

Certain information set forth in this news release may contain forward-looking statements that involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties. These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond the control of IOU including, but not limited to, the impact of general economic conditions, industry conditions, dependence upon regulatory and shareholder approvals, the execution of definitive documentation and the uncertainty of obtaining additional financing. 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. IOU does not assume any obligation to update or revise its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

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.

SOURCE IOU Financial Inc.

Related Links

https://ioufinancial.com/en-ca/


TORONTO, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- DEFEND aims to reduce risks for children and vulnerable people online by education and advocacy. As such, DEFEND started a petition on change.org ( Go to Petition ) to rally citizens globally, calling for a more secure online world. To date there have been over 10,000 signatures.

DEFEND's petition calls for legislative changes to happen and for ALL social media sites to have age/ID verification for all users.

A Canadian House of Commons Committee is already investigating websites like Pornhub for parallel issues. DEFEND has been invited by the Committee to submit a brief on its position.

On May 8, 2021, DEFEND will be hosting a unique event to bring awareness to these issues. DEFEND's "10-hour Ink-A-Thon" which will consist of some of the DEFEND team and several celebrities personally thanking all 10,000+ people who signed its petition on a Live Stream. It's estimated the stunt will take 10+ hours to complete the petition. DEFEND will also be giving away $300 in prizes (Gift cards and cash) for those watching.

Some celebrities reading names during the event include:

Chris Hansen (To Catch a Predator)



(To Catch a Predator) Taryn Manning (Orange is the New Black)



(Orange is the New Black) Colin Mocharie (Whose Line is it Anyways)

Other celebrities who will be reading names include: Bellamy Young (Scandal), Blake Cashman (NFL linebacker), Peter Chao (Youtube Star) and Cheryl Strayed (Best selling author)

"We can say with great certainty that if we had age/ID verification for everyone online, then the world would be a safer place. People would not be sharing child porn on Facebook..."

-DEFEND Chair Romaine Bonghanya

DEFEND is a nonprofit that is run by more than 30 professionals from across the world. Some are parents, who are very concerned about their children's safety using social media.

To be proactive DEFEND is currently developing a groundbreaking new social media platform which will have age and ID verification built in from the ground up. An official announcement about the $400k+ project will come during the Live Stream on May 8.

For more information, please contact:

Romaine Bonghanya, Chair of DEFEND

[email protected]

226-757-4075

www.HelpUsDefend.com

Go to Petition

Watch Ink-A-Thon Promo

SOURCE DEFEND
TULSA, Okla., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Green Group, a national turf care company, recently partnered with Lawn Oklahoma to further build on their entry into the Tulsa market. Lawn Oklahoma specializes in lawn care, tree and shrub care, and mosquito control services for both commercial and residential properties in the Tulsa metro. Lawn Oklahoma merged into Green Group Oklahoma , taking on the Green Group name. The company retained all Lawn Oklahoma employees and is transitioning them to Green Group.

Lawn Oklahoma merges with Green Group Oklahoma

As part of the partnership, Green Group will expand service offerings to the Tulsa market while continuing to provide the high level of service that Lawn Oklahoma customers have come to expect. Benjamin Allen, Vice President of The Midwest Region for Green Group, who is overseeing operations in Oklahoma, is excited to be expanding in Tulsa. "I'm thrilled to join forces with the Lawn Oklahoma team and to create a positive impact in the Tulsa lawn care market!"

About Green Group

Green Group is a national turf care company on a mission to lead the green industry in reimagining lawn care. Green Group thoughtfully and efficiently develops innovative and profitable outdoor services and experiences by investing in its people and processes to deliver a premium customer experience. Headquartered in Raleigh, N.C., Green Group partners with independently owned turf businesses to continue providing the same top-quality service they always have, backed by a national team's support and management.

For more information about Green Group, visit greengroupcompanies.com or follow along on Facebook and LinkedIn .

SOURCE Green Group
Ms. Stone Swart joined Livesay & Myers, P.C. as a Senior Associate attorney in 2015.

Upon joining the firm, Ms. Stone Swart quickly became known as an aggressive and zealous advocate for her clients. She has built a long track record of achieving excellent results for her clients, who have rewarded her with a large number of five-star reviews and testimonials online.

Ms. Stone Swart was included in the 2021 edition of Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch for her work in Family Law. She was named a Super Lawyers Rising Star in 20192020. Ms. Stone Swart currently holds a perfect 10.0 rating from both Avvo and Justia.

Ms. Stone Swart is originally from Boone, Iowa. She graduated summa cum laude from Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska in 2004, with Bachelor's of Arts degrees in both Political Science and Journalism. Upon graduation, Ms. Stone Swart worked in politics in Iowa prior to relocating to the Washington, D.C. area. She then worked as a legal assistant or law clerk for several firms in D.C. and Northern Virginia, before enrolling full time at George Mason University's School of Law.

After graduating from law school in 2009, Ms. Stone Swart practiced family law at a firm in Northern Virginia from 2010 until 2015 before joining Livesay & Myers, P.C.

One of the firm's most skilled trial attorneys, in 2010 Ms. Stone Swart received the prestigious Trial Advocate of the Year award from the Virginia Trial Lawyers Association.

Ms. Stone Swart works in the firm's office in Leesburg, and represents clients in Leesburg, Loudoun County and all across Northern Virginia. She resides in Ashburn, Virginia with her husband and two daughters.

About Livesay & Myers, P.C.

Livesay & Myers, P.C. is an award-winning family law firm with offices in Arlington, Fairfax, Manassas, Fredericksburg and Leesburg, Virginia. The firm was founded in 2003 by partners James Livesay and Kevin Myers. By 2016, the firm had made the annual Virginia Lawyers Weekly list of Virginia's Largest Law Firms, debuting at #64 and moving up to #52 by the 2020 edition. Livesay & Myers, P.C. appears in the 20182021 Editions of the U.S. News - Best Lawyers listing of Best Law Firms as a Tier 2 firm in Family Law for the Washington, D.C. region.

SOURCE Livesay & Myers, P.C.

Related Links

www.livesaymyers.com


Pharmaxis (ASX:PXS) is a specialty pharmaceutical company focused on the development of new products for the diagnosis and treatment of chronic respiratory and immune disorders.

Charlie Teo Foundation grant to fund key research of new Pharmaxis drug to tackle brain cancer

Pharmaxis Ltd (ASX:PXS) (FRA:UUD) drug discovery PXS-5505 will be the focus of a new study funded by a grant from the Charlie Teo Foundation, an Australian charity, for key research into a drug discovery tackling an aggressive and deadly form of brain cancer.

The drug, PXS-5505, which has commenced a phase 1/2a clinical trial for the rare bone marrow cancer myelofibrosis, will now enter pre-clinical efficacy testing for glioblastoma (GBM), the most common form of brain cancer with an average survival of only 15 months from diagnosis.



A$186,837 research grant

Charlie Teo Foundation has awarded a A$186,837 research grant to Y Alan Wang, PhD, associate professor of Cancer Biology at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center to enable the study of PXS-5505.

Pharmaxis CEO Gary Phillips said: "We are delighted the Charlie Teo Foundation has awarded this grant to enable study of PXS-5505, aiming to fight this devastating form of brain cancer which is in desperate need of treatment options.

"I lost my own father to glioblastoma, so this project is close to my heart.

"We sincerely thank the Charlie Teo Foundation for recognising the potential for PXS-5505 and taking this last step to validate effectiveness."
MIAMI, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Teachers have reinvented their classrooms in all kinds of ways this year and continue to be an integral part of keeping communities moving. Margaritaville believes it is time to pay it forward. The global lifestyle brand is celebrating all educators, from teachers to school counselors, who have helped families navigate a difficult year with their first ever "Educators: Our Everyday Heroes" Giveaway. From May 3 to June 24, 15 nominated educators, plus one grand prize winner, from around the U.S. will win an escape to a Margaritaville destination.

Anyone with an excellent educator in their life is eligible to nominate him or her for a chance to win a much-needed vacation. All submissions must be made through www.margaritaville.com/educators and nominations must include a photo of the educator or the person submitting the nomination along with a caption as to why their favorite teacher, counselor and/or administrator deserves a trip full of fun and relaxation. Winners will be selected based on a range of criteria including earned votes and sharing activity as well as insights from Margaritaville's selection committee on originality and overall story.

One grand prize winner will receive the ultimate escape to the brand-new Margaritaville Beach Resort Nassau in the Bahamas. The island getaway destination features white-sand beaches, sunshine, laid-back, tropical accommodations, spectacular food, fun activities, and more frozen cocktails than one could imagine. Valued at over $25K, the winner and their group will win a 7-night retreat to the beach resort, accommodations in the coveted 2-bedroom Jimmy Buffett Suite, dinner at JWB Prime Steak and Seafood, luxurious spa treatments, and more.

Other participating destinations include Margaritaville Beach Resort Playa Flamingo Costa Rica, Margaritaville Resort Times Square, Margaritaville Resort Palm Springs, Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Cancun, Margaritaville Beach Hotel Jacksonville Beach, and many more. In addition to a $1,000 travel voucher for the group, the winners and their guests will be treated to daily breakfast (or a comparable resort credit) and other amenities.

Winners will be announced by July 1 and deserving educators may plan their trip at any time until the end of December 2022.

For more information, visit https://www.margaritaville.com/educators.

About Margaritaville

Margaritaville, a state of mind since 1977, is a global lifestyle brand inspired by Jimmy Buffett, whose songs evoke a passion for tropical escape and relaxation.

Margaritaville features over 20 lodging locations and over 20 additional projects in the pipeline, with nearly half under construction, two gaming properties and over 60 food and beverage venues including signature concepts such as Margaritaville Restaurant, award-winning JWB Prime Steak and Seafood, 5 o'Clock Somewhere Bar & Grill and LandShark Bar & Grill. More than 20 million travelers every year change their latitude and attitude with a visit to a Margaritaville resort, residential real estate destination, vacation club, vacation home rental or restaurant. Consumers can also escape everyday through a collection of Margaritaville lifestyle products including apparel, footwear, frozen concoction makers, home decor, a satellite radio station and more.

To learn about Margaritaville's commitment to health, safety and sanitation, please visit us online: https://www.margaritaville.com/healthandsanitationcommitment.

SOURCE Margaritaville
PORTSMOUTH, N.H., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- MediSpend, a global technology company providing best-in-class compliance solutions for the life sciences industry, announces the launch of the MediSpend Partner Program, which provides clients with a comprehensive ecosystem tailored for global compliance.

"Establishing partnerships is critical for global compliance success," said Denise McKeehan, MediSpend's senior director of strategic partnerships and alliances. "MediSpend's Partner Program recognizes strategic organizations that have demonstrated excellence in delivering solutions and services to mutual clients."

MediSpend partners complement MediSpend solutions through innovative technology, data, integrations, advisory and/or implementation services. With the Partner Program, MediSpend enhances client value and success through integrated best-in-class solutions and services, which enable life sciences companies to compliantly manage high-risk business functions.

"MediSpend is always striving to offer our clients richer solutions to meet their needs," said Craig Hauben, CEO of MediSpend. "Through the Partner Program, we can bring more capabilities to bear for our clients in an integrated, seamless way."

To learn more about the MediSpend Partner Program, visit www.medispend.com/partners

MediSpend is a global technology company providing best-in-class solutions that enable life science companies to compliantly manage high-risk business functions through top-rated software and client services. MediSpend is the compliance system of record for some of the world's largest pharmaceutical, medical device, dental and emerging biotech companies around the world. The MediSpend Global Compliance Suite represents the industry's first global SaaS solution purpose-built to manage the end-to-end process of HCP engagement through transparency reporting, which includes software that facilitates external grant requests. MediSpend is headquartered in Portsmouth, N.H., with offices in Minnesota, New York, Pennsylvania and the Netherlands. Visit MediSpend online at www.medispend.com.

Media Contact

Seth Houston

[email protected]

215-779-2415

SOURCE MediSpend

Related Links

https://www.medispend.com/


As TAVI Patient Population Grows, PRO+ TAVI System Launches with Four Valve Sizes and Lowest Delivery Profile

DUBLIN, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Medtronic plc (NYSE: MDT), the global leader in medical technology, today announced CE (Conformite Europeenne) Mark of the Evolut PRO+ TAVI System  the newest-generation Medtronic TAVI system that builds off the proven self-expanding, supra-annular Evolut TAVI platform. The Evolut PRO+ TAVI System includes four valve sizes with an external pericardial tissue wrap that provides advanced sealing for the largest annular range (for self-expanding TAVI technology) on the market. The approval follows a recent indication expansion for the Evolut platform in Europe for patients with severe aortic stenosis who are at a low risk of surgical mortality and patients with bicuspid aortic valves who are at intermediate, high and extreme risk of surgical mortality.

"As TAVI expands to a broader patient population, including patients at a low risk of surgical mortality and those with bicuspid valves, having the right valve technology becomes a critically important factor in making treatment decisions," said Haim Danenberg, M.D., Ph.D., professor of medicine and head of Interventional Cardiology at Wolfson Medical Center in Israel. "Heart teams pursue a valve solution that is safe, effective and durable. We need a system that can be delivered through the femoral arteries without losing any feature of efficacy such as reducing paravalvular leak and achieving excellent hemodynamics. Because of its design and long track record of exceptional clinical outcomes, the Evolut TAVI platform is well-suited to meet these needs."

The Evolut PRO+ TAVI System is approved in four valve sizes (the 23, 26 and 29mm systems can access vessels down to 5.0 mm) with the 34 mm system able to access vessels down to 6.0 mm. The system is designed with an outer porcine pericardial tissue wrap that adds surface area contact and tissue interaction between the valve and the native aortic annulus, and includes an integrated, inline sheath, allowing physicians to treat patients with a range of anatomical variations with a low delivery profile. Consistent with the Evolut platform design, the PRO+ valve is designed with a self-expanding nitinol frame that conforms to the native annulus with consistent radial force and advanced sealing.

"Anatomical variations can present unique challenges and demand tailored transcatheter valve selection," said Nicolas Van Mieghem , M.D., Ph.D., professor of interventional cardiology, department of cardiology, Thoraxcenter, Erasmus University Medical Center. "This is the first time European physicians will have access to the large 34mm Evolut PRO+ valve size that contains an external tissue wrap for patients with large aortic root dimensions."

Severe aortic stenosis occurs when the aortic valve leaflets become stiff and thickened and have difficulty opening and closing, making the heart work harder to pump blood to the rest of the body and, therefore, impacting an individual's daily activities. If left untreated, patients with symptomatic severe aortic stenosis can die from heart failure in as little as two years.

"We believe that continued iteration of the CoreValve/Evolut family of supra-annular transcatheter aortic valves will result in progressive improvements in patient outcomes," said Jeffrey J. Popma, M.D., vice president and chief medical officer for the Coronary & Renal Denervation business and the Structural Heart and Aortic business, which are part of the Cardiovascular Portfolio at Medtronic. "The Evolut PRO+ TAVI system will provide heart teams a valve with strong hemodynamic performance, with a lower vascular access profile, thereby allowing more patients to be treated by a transfemoral approach rather than alternative access methods. The additional pericardial wrap in the 34 mm Evolut PRO+ may also reduce the degree of residual perivalvular regurgitation."

The Evolut TAVR platform, including the Evolut R, Evolut PRO and Evolut PRO+ TAVI Systems, is indicated for symptomatic severe native aortic stenosis patients across all surgical risk categories (extreme, high, intermediate and low) in the U.S. and countries that recognize CE Mark.

In collaboration with leading clinicians, researchers and scientists worldwide, Medtronic offers the broadest range of innovative medical technology for the interventional and surgical treatment of cardiovascular disease and cardiac arrhythmias. The company strives to offer products and services that deliver clinical and economic value to healthcare consumers and providers around the world.

About Medtronic

Medtronic plc (www.medtronic.com), headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, is among the world's largest medical technology, services and solutions companies - alleviating pain, restoring health and extending life for millions of people around the world. Medtronic employs more than 90,000 people worldwide, serving physicians, hospitals and patients in more than 150 countries. The company is focused on collaborating with stakeholders around the world to take healthcare Further, Together.

Any forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties such as those described in Medtronic's periodic reports on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Actual results may differ materially from anticipated results.

Contacts:





Joey Lomicky Ryan Weispfenning Public Relations Investor Relations +1-763-526-2494 +1-763-505-4626

SOURCE Medtronic plc

Related Links

http://www.medtronic.com


TROY, Mich., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Meritor, Inc. (NYSE: MTOR) today announced that Jim Keane has been appointed to vice president of Industrial, effective May 3, 2021.

In this position, Keane is responsible for successfully executing Meritor's strategy for the global Industrial business, including Engineering, Sales, Product Strategy and Program Management. He will report to Tim Bowes, senior vice president and president of Industrial and Aftermarket North America, and Electrification.

"During his 15 years with Meritor, Jim has made significant contributions to the company in engineering, product development and product strategy," Bowes said. "He brings the right blend of leadership experience, business acumen and technical expertise to lead and grow Meritor's Industrial business."

Keane has been with Meritor since 2005 in various positions of increasing responsibility including director of the Specialty business and director of Program and Product Management for the Specialty and Defense businesses. Most recently, he was senior director of Global Industrial Engineering. Prior to Meritor, Keane was with Honda R&D Americas in North Carolina, where he held engineering and quality positions.

About Meritor

Meritor, Inc. is a leading global supplier of drivetrain, mobility, braking , aftermarket and electric powertrain solutions for commercial vehicle and industrial markets. With more than a 110-year legacy of providing innovative products that offer superior performance, efficiency and reliability, the company serves commercial truck, trailer, off-highway, defense, specialty and aftermarket customers around the world. Meritor is based in Troy, Michigan, United States, and is made up of more than 8,600 diverse employees who apply their knowledge and skills in manufacturing facilities, engineering centers, joint ventures, distribution centers and global offices in 19 countries. Meritor common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol MTOR. For important information, visit the company's website at www.meritor.com.

SOURCE Meritor, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.meritor.com


MindMaze Healthcare is at the forefront of enhancing patient outcomes through its innovative digital neurotherapeutics (DTx) solutions that combine cutting-edge neuroscience with highly engaging, serious game-based medical software supported by tailored smart peripherals that target two distinct areas: neurorehabilitation ( Rehab DTx ) and neuro-restoration ( Neuro DTx ).

"MindMaze's evidence-based interventions are leading an international paradigm shift in delivering novel, evidence-based therapies to patients for improved outcomes," noted John Krakauer, M.A., M.D., Professor of Neurology at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Director of the Center for the Study of Motor Learning and Brain Repair, and Chief Medical Advisor to MindMaze. "Importantly, MindMaze digital neurotherapeutic products are used across the continuum of care, from the hospital to home, offering patients a hybrid therapy program delivered through sessions in person and remotely that result in reduced therapy delivery costs and greater patient management and monitoring."

The Company's animated therapeutic 'games' aid patients suffering with neurological injuries and conditions such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, multiple sclerosis, or Parkinson's disease. They were created to be as highly engaging as video games while promoting the high dose, high intensity therapeutic movements that lead to restoration of function.

"MindMaze products have proved to be the best in the market, as validated by the leading US institutions in the field. Thanks to distributors and partners, we can reach more patients faster, so that people with neurological diseases all around the world can benefit first-hand from these proven engaging and immersive therapies, including from the comfort of their own home," said Jean-Marc Wismer, MindMaze's Chief Operating Officer. "The partnerships collectively expand MindMaze's international footprint, which should further solidify our leadership in brain health while contributing to our top line growth over the coming year and beyond."

About MindMaze's Product Portfolio

Digital therapeutics for rehabilitation

MindMotion, a first-in-class tele-neurorehabilitation platform that is cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), is CE marked and reimbursable. ( view patient testimonial here ).

Digital therapeutics for neurorestoration

MindPod, an immersive FDA-listed and CE-marked neurobehavioral platform based on evidence and prescribed protocols developed at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine .

an immersive FDA-listed and CE-marked neurobehavioral platform based on evidence and prescribed protocols developed at the . Curapy, a novel digital neurotherapeutics product line that includes TOAP Run for Parkinson's disease and X-TORP for cognitive disorders.

Supporting devices/smart objects

Intento PRO, a CE-marked digital neurotherapeutics solution enabling self-modulated functional electrical stimulation for the upper limb after stroke.

Digital assessments

Gait Up , digital assessments for measuring and quantifying gait, balance and cognitive function.

About Our Partners

Alkholi

Founded in 1976 by Dr. Hamza Alkholi, Alkholi Medical has been at the forefront of bringing healthcare solutions closer to the people who need it the most in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. From importing medical devices to establishing and operating medical centers, today Alkholi Healthcare Partnerships aspire to grow this legacy by bringing digital therapeutics to homes and remote areas across the Kingdom.

Surgicorp

Surgicorp has over twenty years of experience in medical biotechnology in Peru, Ecuador and Bolivia. It provides surgical products and advanced medical equipment for high complex procedures and technology transfer for the medical community. The company specializes in Neurosurgery, Orthopedics, Urology and Gynecology, and others.

Swiss Rehabilitation

With leading rehabilitation centers in Vaud, Swiss Rehabilitation specializes in neurology services. Stroke rehabilitation is one of Swiss Rehabilitation's areas of expertise. Upon discharge from the hospital, Swiss Rehabilitation continues rehabilitation in an outpatient setting, in one of its centers or at home.

Guttmann Barcelona, Brain Health and Neurorehabilitation Institute

Guttmann Barcelona is a clinic that is specially designed to offer the best diagnosis and most advanced treatments in functional motor, cognitive and behavioural problems that affect people with a neurological disease or neuropsychiatric disorder. Guttmann Barcelona offers comprehensive, holistic and personalised diagnosis and treatment with all the scientific vigour and the hallmark of quality that characterises Institut Guttmann.

About MindMaze

MindMaze is a global leader in brain technology with a mission to accelerate humanity's ability to recover, learn and adapt. With over a decade of work at the intersection of neuroscience, medicine, and engineering powered by artificial intelligence, the company strives to create the universal platform of brain health and performance. Through its products the company is addressing some of the most challenging problems in neurology, including stroke, Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. MindMaze Labs is the company's R&D division tasked with bringing ground-breaking neuroscience to everyday life. Founded in 2012 by Tej Tadi, Ph.D., MindMaze's Chief Executive Officer, the Company has been valued at over $1 billion and has offices in Lausanne, Baltimore, London, Paris and Mumbai. Learn more at mindmaze.com .

Contacts

MindMaze

Phoebe Alix

[email protected]

Media

Edna Kaplan

[email protected]

SOURCE MindMaze

Related Links

https://www.mindmaze.com


MISGAV and TEL AVIV, Israel, May 2, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Trendlines Agrifood, an investment vehicle of The Trendlines Group (SGX: 42T) (OTCQX: TRNLY), a leading Israel- and Singapore-based investment group focused on high-growth medical and agrifood technologies, announced that it has entered into a partnership agreement with Mitsubishi Corporation ("MC") for the identification of emerging technologies and start-ups of interest to their global integrated business enterprise.

Organized into ten business groups, MC operations span virtually every industry, and it is actively exploring innovation coming from Israel, where the agrifood sector has seen tremendous development in the past decade.

Trendlines Agrifood holds a wealth of experience in scouting and evaluating agrifood technologies for investment and development. MC hopes to tap into this experience and together identify promising technologies that can be built and provide breakthrough innovation to global enterprises.

CEO Trendlines Agrifood Nitza Kardish PhD., remarked: "Collaborating with MC is synergistic. We gain invaluable market and industry insights from a global leader in their field, and MC leverages on our experience in technology evaluation and development."

MC Tel-Aviv's CInO and Head of Partnerships & Ventures, Leor Ben-Yakov, commented: "General Manager, Mr. Takashi Kai, and I are very excited about working with Trendlines. Our office is the Headquarters' forward outpost mandated to tap into the Israeli innovation ecosystem across several key industries. By partnering with a highly reputable partner such as Trendlines we are basically creating a win-win-win collaboration opportunity for Trendlines, for MC and, of course, for top notch start-ups in Israel and abroad."

About Trendlines Agrifood

Trendlines Agrifood, an investment vehicle of The Trendlines Group, invests in agricultural and food technologies ("agrifood tech") that help solve the global food crisis. We partner with entrepreneurs, innovators, leading players, and investors to develop an ecosystem that encourages innovation in this sector. Our dynamic professional, entrepreneurial team shares know-how, best practices, and the mutual support necessary to enable Trendlines Agrifood's portfolio companies to succeed and flourish.

About Mitsubishi Corporation

Mitsubishi Corporation, one of the largest Japanese general trading companies (Sogo Sosha), is a global integrated business enterprise with operations spanning ten Business Groups: Natural Gas, Industrial Materials, Petroleum & Chemicals, Mineral Resources, Industrial Infrastructure, Automotive & Mobility, Food Industry, Consumer Industry, Power Solution and Urban Development. MC has over 200 bases of operations in approximately 90 countries worldwide as well as a global network of ~1400 group companies.

Media contact:

Shira Zimmerman

[email protected]

+972-508-777-013

SOURCE The Trendlines Group

Related Links

https://www.trendlines.com/


SILVER SPRING, Md., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- On May 15, the Tuberous Sclerosis Alliance (TS Alliance) will join tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) organizations around the world to observe the ninth annual TSC Global Awareness Day. On this day, thousands of individuals and families affected by TSC will come together to increase public awareness of the rare disease and share their stories of hope for the future. TSC Global Awareness Day is sponsored internationally by Tuberous Sclerosis Complex International (TSCi), a worldwide consortium of TSC organizations of which the TS Alliance is a member.

The TS Alliance will also help celebrate the day by hosting the Step Forward to Cure TSC Global Virtual Walk-Run-Ride on May 15 and 16. Interested participants may register online.

Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a rare genetic disease that affects people at all stages of life. TSC causes tumors to grow in different organs and can impair their function, primarily the brain, heart, kidneys, skin, eyes and lungs. Changes in the brain caused by TSC have the biggest impact on quality of life, from seizures and developmental delays to intellectual disabilities, behavioral challenges and autism.

In fact, TSC is the leading genetic cause of epilepsy, including infantile spasms. A strong correlation also exists between TSC and autisman estimated 40-50% of individuals with TSC have autism spectrum disorder. Every individual's experience with TSC is differentmany live independently while others require complex care. Along with its partners in TSCi, the TS Alliance is working toward a future where every person and family affected by TSC has what they need to live their fullest lives.

"Too often, TSC goes undiagnosed. But we know at least two babies born each day in the United States will have it," explained Kari Luther Rosbeck, TS Alliance President & CEO. "Nearly one million people worldwide are estimated to be living with TSC, with approximately 50,000 in the United States. TSC Global Awareness Day is a key event to help us inform the public at large about the disease, but more importantly we hope to reach those who may not be properly diagnosed yet."

The TS Alliance is an internationally recognized nonprofit dedicated to finding a cure for TSC while improving the lives of those affected by funding and driving research; developing programs, support services and resource information; and implementing of public and professional education programs designed to heighten awareness of TSC.

For more information, visit tsalliance.org and tsclgobalday.org

MEDIA CONTACT

Jaye Isham, [email protected]

Senior Vice President, Strategic Communications

Tuberous Sclerosis Alliance

SOURCE Tuberous Sclerosis Alliance

Related Links

http://www.tsalliance.org


 The Cruise Line is Offering Teachers a Chance at 100 Free Cruises and Three Grand Prizes of $25,000, $15,000 and $10,000 for Their Schools 

 'Norwegian's Giving Joy' Contest is Now Open and Accepting Nominations at www.nclgivingjoy.com from May 3  June 4, 2021 

MIAMI, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- In recognition and celebration of the countless teachers who have spent the last 15 months giving their all to students across the U.S. and Canada during these unprecedented times, Norwegian Cruise Line, the innovator in global cruise travel, today announced the relaunch of its "Norwegian's Giving Joy" contest, which provides educators with free cruises and a chance to win up to $25,000 for their schools.

Experience the interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/players/English/8667854-norwegian-cruise-line-teacher-appreciation-week/

Norwegian Cruise Line is awarding 100 teachers across North America with free cruises as part of its Norwegians Giving Joy campaign, created to honor and celebrate educators for their commitment to inspiring students every day. From May 3 through June 4, 2021, NCL is encouraging the public to nominate and vote for a deserving teacher for a chance to win a free cruise and up to $25,000 for their schools.

"Norwegian's Giving Joy" acknowledges the often-undervalued work of educators and highlights the intersection between travel and education. First launched with astounding success in 2019, with over 1.4 million votes for more than 46,000 teachers, and a total prize of over $100,000 for schools across North America, the contest heralds these selfless warriors. This year's campaign is especially significant given the elevated demands of this profession under pressure.

"Now more than ever, educators deserve our gratitude and so much more for their perseverance and unwavering commitment to inspire students every day," said Harry Sommer, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line. "Travel is one of the most immersive means of education. It broadens our perspective, encourages us to discover, adapt and accept new cultures and experiences. With 'Norwegian's Giving Joy,' we are able to help shed light on these everyday heroes and raise their spirits by awarding them with a long-overdue vacation to help show them the world, as they've helped shape so many of ours."

The month-long campaign runs from May 3 to June 4, 2021. The Cruise Line is asking for nominations of certified or accredited teachers in the U.S. and Canada who demonstrate a passion for bringing joy to the classroom, who relentlessly show up for their students  virtually or in person,  and who continue to motivate them every day. The top 100 educators with the most votes will win a seven-night cruise for two on voyages embarking from the U.S. and Canada through summer 2023. The Grand Prize winner will be awarded with a $25,000 donation for his or her school, while the second and third place winners will receive a $15,000 and $10,000 donation respectively for their schools. A virtual award ceremony will take place in August 2021.

"We have all had a teacher that has impacted our lives and helped define who we are today," said Sommer. "It is our responsibility to rally behind these incredible individuals and show them how grateful we truly are. While we were unable to host 'Norwegian's Giving Joy' in 2020, we are making up for it this year by offering 100 teachers, more than ever before, with free cruises. We look forward to welcoming these educators on board our world-class fleet very, very soon."

Nicole Conlisk, educator at One World Middle School in the Bronx, N.Y. and the 2019 "Giving Joy" Grand Prize Winner said, "Norwegian Cruise Line recognizing what we do on a daily basis and sharing stories of how we each impact and inspire our students has brought awareness to the work we do as educators." The donation made by NCL and its partners provided the students of One World Middle School access to hands-on experiences including STEM curricula focused on mechanical, electrical and chemical engineering, technology education and an introduction to ballroom dancing. Conlisk continued, "Through the support provided by NCL, we hope to continue the STEM program, while also expanding the educational opportunities with courses in architecture, criminal science, robotics, musical theater and other performing arts, in the next school year."

To nominate a beloved teacher, to vote and for the contest terms and conditions, please visit www.nclgivingjoy.com.

For more information about the Company's award-winning 17-ship fleet and worldwide itineraries, or to book a cruise, please contact a travel professional, call 888-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784) or visit www.ncl.com.

SOURCE Norwegian Cruise Line

Related Links

https://www.ncl.com/


NEW YORK, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Since the pandemic Okada & Company has emerged as one of New York City's most active commercial leasing and advisory companies. Today they announced recently signed commercial leases covering over 50,000 SF in Midtown & Midtown South Manhattan.

Okada & Company represented supermarket company Chef's Local Harvest to replace Associated Supermarket at Blackstone's Stuyvesant Town & Peter Cooper Village. Matthew Fernandez of Okada represented the tenant in the 17,300 SF space, while groups from RIPCO & JLL represented Blackstone in the transaction. The space is located at 421 East 14th Street, New York, NY.

Okada & Company along with Resolution Real Estate Group & GFP Real Estate are owners and general partners of 41-45 West 34th Street, a 113,500 SF office building in the Herald Square section of Midtown Manhattan. The Winchendon School, a private college preparatory school has leased the entire 5th Floor for it's Midtown campus. Jeff Zund & Dana Moskowitz of Resolution Real Estate Group represented the owners interests in the 12,000 SF transaction, while William Korchak of Jones Lang LaSalle represented the tenant in the transaction.

Okada & Company represents Gatsby Realty, a national real estate investment and development company in 2 separate transactions covering 6,300 SF. At 56 West 45th Street, Hiro Iwata & Christopher N. Okada of Okada & Company negotiated a long term lease with celebrity tattoo and body artist Darwin Enriquez for the entire 3,800 SF Penthouse. The duo also represented Gatsby in the lease of 2,500 SF for part of its 9th floor to Bushido Security. The tenant was represented by Nelson Mieses of Nelson Mieses RE in the 9th floor transaction.

New York's premier healthcare provider Northwell Health for their Lenox Hill Hospital Group signed a 10 year lease for 5,600 SF of office and medical space at 261 East 78th Street. Francis Leung & Christopher N. Okada represented the landlord, while Josef Yadgarov of The Corcoran Group represented the tenant. 261 East 78th Street is now 100% leased.

Other recent transactions include the tenant representation of Spandrel Development Partners, Davean Holdings, Bloch USA, and the representation of the landlords at 315 Fifth Avenue, in 2 separate transactions.

"We feel there is a tremendous opportunity to transact in New York City in 2021. Although this is a very difficult environment to lease office and retail space in, we are 100% committed to our projects, clients, and the recovery of New York City" said Christopher Okada CEO of Okada & Company. "We have doubled the online visibility of our properties, worked tirelessly to make sure each transaction is completed, and implemented every strategy in our 50 year history to fight vacancies in our buildings. I feel the results in Q1' 2021 are promising, but we have a lot more work ahead of us."

Okada & Company is a full service commercial real estate investment and brokerage company in Midtown Manhattan. As of May 1st, 2021 Okada & Company owns and represents 22 properties representing 1 million square feet of commercial space in New York City.

Contact:

Christopher N. Okada

Chief Executive Officer

Okada & Company

[email protected]

SOURCE Okada & Company

Related Links

http://www.okadaco.com


"goodblend is proud to be the first medical cannabis dispensary in Texas to offer medical cannabis capsules to patients across the Lone Star State," said Marcus Ruark, President of goodblend Texas. "The new cannabis capsule format reflects our commitment to innovating our product offerings and enhancing accessibility to help improve the quality of Texans' lives. Capsules have been used for a long-time in medicine, so patients new to cannabis will be familiar with this delivery form. With more people in Texas turning to medical cannabis, we are meeting the needs of our diverse patients by offering a large variety of product options under a brand they know and trust."

The capsule format provides patients with a precise, concentrated dose of a calibrated level of THC and CBD oil per capsule. The cannabis capsules, only available via goodblend Texas, are available in three terpene blend families, with each child-resistant package containing 60 capsules.

The launch of this new cannabis product format in Texas follows the recent news that Parallel invested $25M in a new state-of-the-art cannabis cultivation, production, and retail facility in San Marcos. This financial commitment expands Parallel's ability to meet the growing demand for medical cannabis products in Texas. The planned 63,000 square-foot facility is expected to create hundreds of new jobs in the San Marcos region. The company also recently introduced its goodblend retail brand, which reflects Parallel's intent to lead the way to the future of cannabis by providing patients a trusted, consistent and seamless way to connect and learn, and to access innovative, high-quality cannabis products in a variety of formulations.

About Parallel

Parallel is one of the largest privately-held, vertically integrated, multi-state cannabis companies in the United States with a mission to pioneer well-being and improve the quality of life through cannabinoids. Parallel recently announced that it intends to become a public company through a definitive business combination agreement with Ceres Acquisition Corp. ("Ceres") (NEO: CERE.U, CERE.WT;OTCQX: CERAF), a special purpose acquisition corporation (SPAC). Parallel has ongoing operations in four medical and adult-use markets under the retail brands of Surterra Wellness in Florida; goodblend in Texas; New England Treatment Access (NETA) in Massachusetts, and The Apothecary Shoppe in Nevada. Parallel also has a license under its goodblend Pennsylvania brand for vertically integrated operations and up to six retail locations, in addition to a medical cannabis research partnership with the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. Subject to regulatory approval, Parallel will add Illinois as a sixth market when its recently announced acquisition of six Windy City Cannabis licenses is complete. Parallel has a diverse portfolio of high quality, proprietary and licensed consumer brands and products including Surterra Wellness, Coral Reefer, Float and Heights. Parallel operates approximately 50 locations nationwide, including 42 retail stores, and cultivation and manufacturing sites. Through its wholly-owned Parallel Biosciences subsidiary, it conducts advanced cannabis science and R&D for new product development in its facilities in Massachusetts, Florida, Texas and a facility in Budapest, Hungary through an exclusive license and partnership. Parallel follows rigorous operations and business practices to ensure the quality, safety, consistency, and efficacy of its products and is building its business by following strong values and putting the well-being of its customers and employees first. Find more information at www.liveparallel.com , or on Instagram and LinkedIn .

For more information on goodblend Texas and its products, access tx.goodblend.com and www.facebook.com/goodblendtx .

Texas CUP License #0006

Media Contact

Taylor Foxman

[email protected]

Investor Contact

[email protected]

Forward Looking Statements

Certain information in this press release contains "forward-looking statements" and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation and U.S. securities law (referred to herein as forward-looking statements), including statements regarding the transaction and expected future growth. Except for statements of historical fact, certain information contained herein constitutes forward-looking statements, which include, but are not limited to, statements related to activities, events or developments that Parallel or Ceres expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future, statements related to Parallel's business strategy objectives and goals, and Parallel's management's assessment of future plans and operations which are based on current internal expectations, estimates, projections, assumptions and beliefs, which may prove to be incorrect. Forward-looking statements can often be identified by the use of words such as "may", "will", "could", "would", "should", "anticipate", 'believe", expect ", "intend", "potential ", "estimate", "budget", "scheduled", "plans", "planned", "forecasts", "goals" and similar expressions or the negatives thereof. Such statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and are based on Parallel's management's belief or interpretation of information currently available. Forward-looking statements are neither historical facts nor assurances of future performance. Forward-looking statements in this press release includes statements regarding Parallel's investment in new technologies and products; the development and expansion of Parallel's brands; Parallel's expansion strategy and plans to grow its market share in existing and new markets; and strategic acquisition opportunities. Forward-looking statements are based on a number of factors and assumptions made by management and considered reasonable at the time such information is provided, and forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. There can be no assurance that the transactions described herein will be completed or that, if completed, the combined public company will be successful.

Risk factors that could cause actual results, performance or achievement to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to the following: (i) the risk that the transaction may not be completed in a timely manner or at all, which may adversely affect the price of Ceres' securities, (ii) the risk that the transaction may not be completed by Ceres' qualifying transaction deadline and the potential failure to obtain an extension of the qualifying transaction deadline if sought by Ceres, (iii) the failure to satisfy the conditions to the consummation of the transaction, including the approval of the transaction by the stockholders of Ceres and Parallel, as applicable (iv), the receipt of certain governmental and regulatory approvals, (v) the lack of a third party valuation in determining whether or not to pursue the proposed transaction, (vi) the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstance that could give rise to the termination of the business combination agreement, (vii) the impact of COVID-19 on Parallel's business and/or the ability of the parties to complete the proposed transaction, (viii) the effect of the announcement or pendency of the transaction on Parallel's business relationships, performance, and business generally, (ix) risks that the proposed transaction disrupts current plans and operations of Parallel and potential difficulties in Parallel employee retention as a result of the proposed transaction, (x) the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against Parallel or Ceres or their respective, directors, officers and affiliates related to the proposed transaction, (xi) the risk that the combined public company's securities will not be approved for listing on the NEO Exchange or, if approved, that the combined public company will be able to maintain the listing, (xii) the price of Ceres' and the combined public company's securities may be volatile due to a variety of factors, including changes in the competitive and highly regulated industries in which Parallel operates, variations in performance across competitors, changes in laws and regulations affecting Parallel's business and changes in the combined capital structure and a return on securities of the combined public company is not guaranteed, (xiii) the ability to implement business plans, forecasts, and other expectations after the completion of the proposed transaction, and identify and realize additional opportunities, (xiv) the risk of downturns and the possibility of rapid change in the highly competitive industry in which Parallel operates, (xv) the risk that Parallel and its current and future collaborators are unable to successfully develop and commercialize Parallel's products, brands or services, or experience significant delays in doing so, (xvi) the risk that the combined public company may never sustain profitability, (xvii) the risk that the combined public company will need to raise additional capital to execute its business plan, which may not be available on acceptable terms or at all, (xviii) the risk that the combined public company experiences difficulties in managing its growth and expanding operations, (xix) the risk that the pharmaceutical industry may attempt to dominate the cannabis industry, and in particular, legal marijuana, through the development and distribution of synthetic products which emulate the effects and treatment of organic marijuana, (xx) the agricultural risks related to insects, plant diseases, unstable growing conditions, water and electricity availability and cost, (xxi) the risk that may arise because cannabis continues to be a controlled substance under the United States Federal Controlled Substances Act, (xxii) the risk of product liability or regulatory lawsuits or proceedings relating to Parallel's products and services, (xixii) the risk that the combined public company is unable to secure or protect its intellectual property, (xxiv) tax risks, including U.S. federal income tax treatment, (xxv) risks relating to the reliance of Parallel on key members of management, (xxvi) risks inherent in businesses related to the agricultural industry, (xxvii) risks relating to potentially unfavorable publicity or consumer perception, (xxviii) Parallel may be subject to the risk of competition from synthetic production and technological advances, (xxix) investors in the combined public company and its directors, officers and employees who are not U.S. citizens may be denied entry into the United States, (xxx) product recalls, (xxxi) results of future clinical research, (xxxii) difficulty attracting and retaining personnel, (xxxiii) fraudulent or illegal activity by employees, contractors and consultants; information technology systems and cyber-attacks, (xxxiv) security breaches, (xxxv) natural disasters and terrorism risk, (xxxvi) restricted access to banking, (xxxvii) risks related to the lending facilities, (xxxviii) risks of leverage, (xxxix) heightened scrutiny by regulatory authorities, (xI) risk of legal, regulatory or political change, (xli) general regulatory and licensing risks, (xlii) Parallel and the combined public company may be subject to the risk of changes in Canadian as well as U.S. federal, state and local laws or regulations, (xliii) limitations on ownership of licenses, (xliv) Nevada regulatory regime and transfer and grant of licenses, (xIv) regulatory action and approvals from the FDA, (xlvi) constraints on marketing products, (xlvii) anti-money laundering laws and regulation, (xlviii) the combined public company's status as an "Emerging Growth Company" under United States securities laws, (xlix) discretion in the use of proceeds, (l) subsequent offerings will result in dilution to shareholders of the combined public company, (li) voting control, and (lii) unpredictability caused by capital structure and voting control. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list is not exhaustive.

Parallel and Ceres undertake no obligation to update forward-looking statements if circumstances or management's estimates or opinions should change except as required by applicable securities laws.

U.S. Disclaimer

Neither the securities of Ceres nor of Parallel have been registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act"), or any state securities laws and may not be offered and sold in the United States except pursuant to an exemption from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act.

Any securities of either Ceres or Parallel sold in the United States will be "restricted securities" within the meaning of Rule 144 under the U.S. Securities Act. Such securities may be resold, pledged or otherwise transferred only pursuant to an effective registration statement under the U.S. Securities Act or pursuant to an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act.

SOURCE Parallel

Related Links

http://www.liveparallel.com


A glance at some of the day's highlights from the Proactive Investors US and Canada newswires

( ) (OTC:BRGGF) has found its new CEO in board member Richard Carter, effective May 1. Before joining the Bragg board in the fall of 2020, Carter was the CEO of sports betting solutions and services provider SBTech for five years, prior to the companys merger with DraftKings. Additionally, members Paul Godfrey and Lara Falzon assumed the roles of chair of the board and audit committee chair, respectively, on May 3.

Jack Nathan Medical Corp ( ) ( ), operating as , has announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary Writi Inc has secured the software installation for 15 new Long-Term Care (LTC) homes, representing over 1,650 beds. The company said this integration, when complete, will double the number of LTCs using the Writi platform and increase its recurring revenue install base to a total of 30 LTCs and over 3,200 beds in Ontario. These new integrations will be driven by Writi v2.0 which delivers enhancements to speed and efficiency across all modules, secure group conferencing video calling between healthcare entities and a new and improved mobile app.

( ) (OTCMKTS:SOHFF) (FRA:TSGN) reported a 30% year-over-year increase its fiscal 2020 revenue to C$44.4 million as the companys Campo Morado mine production in Mexico increased at an average rate quarter over quarter of about 50%. Results were also boosted by a nearly 2% average month-over-month rise in zinc prices as well as a more than 4% month-over-month increase in the price of silver during the year.

Ascendant Resources Inc ( ) has tapped mining veteran Joao Barros as president of the Portugal-focused junior company following the resignation of CEO Chris Buncic. Barros, the current head of Ascendants Portuguese subsidiary Redcorp  Empreendimentos Mineiros Lda, is well versed in the companys Lagoa Salgada VMS project in the Iberian Pyrite Belt in Portugal. In a statement, Toronto-based Ascendant said Barros will continue to oversee exploration and development at Lagoa Salgada as the company moves towards a feasibility study on the project.

( ) (OTC:TECXF) ( ) has signed a definitive agreement to acquire a 100% interest in XPort Digital Limited, which offers credit card processing for cryptocurrency exchanges and wallets, in a stock deal worth C$5 million. XPort is a merchant services company, known as fiat-to-crypto gateway solution (think dollars to bitcoin, etc). Its plug-and-play customizable widget can be set up quickly for merchants to process credit card transactions instantly and securely, the company said. TechX issued 5.2 million common shares at a deemed value of $0.952 per share.

Mydecine Innovations Group ( ) ( ) (FSE:0NFA) posted full-year 2020 results that showed the company was well-funded to advance its intellectual property (IP) portfolio and expand its clinical trial calendar. As of December 31, 2020, the Denver, Colorado-based biopharma company focused on the research and development of alternative nature-sourced medicine, had cash and equivalents of $2.2 million. Subsequently, Mydecine raised around $30 million. Mydecine said it is well-funded to advance its IP portfolio, expand clinical trial calendar, expand European operations; and build out its technology division.

( ) (FRA:20MP) (OTCQB:MVMDF) announced that the company has filed a novel cancer adjuvant patent and is proceeding with pre-clinical trials with third-party cancer contract research organizations in triple-negative breast cancer, metastatic melanoma, and lung carcinoma. The patent-pending adjuvant utilizes the firms advances in macrocyclic lactone solubility to consider ivectosol as a viable drug for numerous cancer therapies. Mountain Valley said its solubility technology applied to the ivermectin drug is the only form in the world that uses excipients that are approved by the US Food and Drug Administration, making it a leading candidate for human injection or intravenous infusion.

DGTL Holdings Inc ( ) ( ) has revealed its third-quarter financials, showing it generated nearly $1.3 million in revenue off the back of growing demand for CaaS (content-as-a-service) platforms. The New York City-based integrated media company reported $1,250,782 in revenue for the three months ending February 28, as subsidiary Hashoff reflected $744,984 for the same quarter in 2019, for a 68% growth spike. DGTL also announced $3,666,603 in revenue for the nine months ending February 28, versus $2,142,484 for the same period in 2019, representing a 71% increase.

Ltd ( ) ( ) announced it has entered into a sponsored research agreement with the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), to explore using the drug Bucillamine as a treatment for severe coronavirus (COVID-19). Revive said the agreement will support research in the laboratory of Dr. John Fahy to test the efficacy of Bucillamine in pre-clinical models of COVID-19 and to design protocols that test the utility of the drug in human trials.

Inc ( ) ( ) (FRA:JAM1), a leader in cannabinoid-derived drug discovery and development, revealed that it has been granted a Health Canada Drug Establishment License (DEL) to distribute REDUVO cannabinoid soft gel capsules in Canada. REDUVO is a synthetic THC-based soft gel capsule aimed as a therapy to combat severe nausea and vomiting associated with cancer chemotherapy. It is currently being assessed by Health Canada for the issuance of a Drug Identification Number (DIN). REDUVO, known as Marinol in the United States, has been approved as a regulated pharmaceutical drug by the US Food and Drug Administration since 1985. "We look forward to working closely with our Contract Manufacturing Organization for the importation, warehousing, and dissemination of the THC pharmaceutical drug to pharmacies across Canada, Tetra CEO Dr Guy Chamberland said in a statement.

( ) (OTCMKTS:LSANF) (FRA:L41A) will receive a US$5 million investment from Queen's Road Capital Investment Ltd ( ) via a convertible debenture. The proceeds will be allocated towards the completion of the Vizcachitas projects pre-feasibility study, according to a statement. Los Andes Copper owns 100% of the Vizcachitas project, one of the largest advanced copper deposits in the Americas, which will become Chiles next major copper mine. n conjunction with the investment, Los Andes Copper said that the chairman and CEO of Queen's Road Capital, Warren Gilman, has agreed to be nominated for appointment to the board of directors of the company at its upcoming shareholder meeting.

Binovi Technologies Corp ( ) ( ) (FRA:2EYA) has completed its previously announced C$2.5 million all-stock acquisition of Samurai Motion Tracking Software and thereby its computer-aided vision therapy (CAVT) technology. The company issued 31.4 million shares at a price of C$0.08 per share to the underlying shareholders of Samurai. CAVT is an extensive software package for developing eye tracking skills, visual thinking and processing skills, as well as binocular vision skills.

Gold Mines Canada Inc ( )( ) announced an early exercise warrant incentive program intended to encourage the early exercise of the company's 21,457,588 outstanding purchase warrants with a strike price of $0.15. The warrant program will be open for a 30-day period and is only for warrants priced at $0.15 with an expiry of May 17, 2024, June 7, 2024, August 27, 2024, February 14, 2025, February 26, 2025 and March 6, 2025. Under the program, each warrant that is exercised during the exercise period will receive one new common share purchase warrant exercisable at a price of $0.25 for a five-year period, subject to acceleration. The company will use the proceeds received as a result of the warrant program to fund the 2021 exploration program at the company's Baner and Champagne gold projects.

Agraflora Organics International Inc ( ) has delayed filing of its annual financial statements for the fiscal year ended Dec. 31, 2020, as a result of delays to its audit. The company was granted a management cease trade order by the British Columbia Securities Commission. The reason for the default is due to the recent resignation of the CEO and chairman on March 8, 2021 and limited staffing resources. The company currently expects to file on or before May 31, 2021.

( ) and Total Valley announced the successful completion of Phase 1 of their Joint Development Agreement (JDA) to upgrade fusel oils into renewable isoamylene. The companies are now seeking to advance to Phase 2 of the JDA, which will allow for scale-up of Gevos technology at a demonstration scale. The JDA, signed in 2020, is based on Gevos chemical-based catalytic processes that selectively convert low-value fusel oils, a mixture of alcohols that are byproducts from fermentation processes such as ethanol or isobutanol production, into higher-value renewable chemicals such as isoprene, ketones, aldehydes, or olefins, in this case isoamylene. Isoamylene is used in a diverse set of applications, including resins, pesticides, flavors and fragrances, pharmaceuticals, healthcare products, and adhesives.

Nova Royalty Corp ( ) (OTCMKTS:NVARF) announced its royalties portfolio increased from 5 to 18 during 2020 in what it said was a transformational year for the company. The company now owns royalties on several of the largest and most advanced copper and nickel deposits that will be critical in achieving global net-zero emission targets by 2050. With a rapidly diversifying portfolio, Nova has emerged as a natural partner for owners of royalties on the world's most significant copper and nickel deposits, Nova Royalty CEO Alex Tsukernik said in a statement.

Inc ( ) said Peter Dickie has resigned as a director of the company. The company thanks Mr Dickie for his service and wishes him well in his future endeavours.

Ltd ( ) ( ) (OTCQX:OGGFF), one of Canadas leading independent organic grocers, has announced that its common shares are now eligible for electronic clearing and settlement through the Depository Trust Company (DTC) in the US. DTC is a subsidiary of the Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation, a US company that manages the electronic clearing and settlement of publicly traded companies. Securities that are eligible to be electronically cleared and settled through DTC are "DTC eligible." Shares can now be purchased through online brokers with DTC eligibility. "The ability to have the Company's shares electronically transferred between brokerages in the United States adds convenience, reduces costs and simplifies the process for our investors, said CEO Matt Lurie. "We have opened the entryway to new investors that may have been previously restricted from our stock. This important milestone will provide both existing and potential investors the benefit of increased liquidity as we broaden our investor base.

( ) ( ) (FRA:4021) has announced that the board of directors has approved the grant of 1,680,000 stock options. The options are exercisable into common shares at $0.32 each over the next three years and all vesting over the remainder of 2021. So far, a total of 6,589,740 common shares are reserved for issuance under its stock option plan, with 1,871,232 options remaining for issuance.

Empower Clinics Inc ( ) ( ) has determined that it will not be able to file its annual audited financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2020 by the prescribed filing deadline of April 30, 2021. Empower said the delay is primarily due to the negative impact of the coronavirus pandemic and its inability to travel for audit purposes to US-based subsidiaries. Further, the company completed two acquisitions in late 2020 of private companies that had no prior audit experience, in addition an independent third-party valuation of the new subsidiaries has been required by its audit firm. The company has made an application to the British Columbia Securities Commission for a temporary management cease trade order.

Corporation ( ) (FRA:2C1) announced that it has granted 400,000 incentive stock options under its stock option plan. Each option entitles the holder to purchase one common share of the company at an exercise price of $0.55 and will vest immediately. The options were granted on April 30, 2021, by Xigem's board of directors and include 200,000 options, valid for a period of three years, for a consultant to the company, and 200,000 options, valid for a period of five years, for members of the company's Advisory Board.

The company also added ecommerce veteran Wei Lin to its advisory board. Wei is the CEO and co-founder of Project , which focuses on consolidating e-commerce brands, starting with Amazon third-party sellers, and a co-founder of Lightheart Management Partners, the primary firm that seeded Project . He also completed stints at CPS Capital, where he led deals in the clinical research and non-profit and charity services sectors, and McKinsey & Company where he served clients in the High Tech, Media, Telecom, Banking, and Private Equity sectors.

( ) has said that under a directors resolution' dated April 28, 2021, the company has consolidated its capital on a one-new-for-10-old basis. The name of the company has not been changed. Effective at the opening, May 4, 2021, the common shares of Aurelius Minerals will commence trading on the TSX Venture Exchange on a consolidated basis.

Naturally Splendid Enterprises Ltd ( ) (OTCPINK:NSPDF) (FRA:50N) reported fiscal 2020 sales of C$1.6 million, as coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions weighed on its operations, although the company remains optimistic that 2021 will yield better results. 2020 was a year of contrasts as we entrenched ourselves further into the plant-based consumer markets even while managing the significant operational challenges presented by the COVID pandemic, Naturally Splendid CEO Craig Goodwin said in a statement.

Ltd ( ) ( ) ended its fiscal 2020 with over C$3.8 million in cash after an oversubscribed financing and public listing on the TSX Venture Exchange. In a statement accompanying the results, CEO Quentin Martin called fiscal 202 an important year for the young company. "Our focus throughout fiscal 2020 was on developing our proprietary esports betting platform and, despite nominal marketing spend, we were able to organically and efficiently increase our audience as the global pandemic brought esports betting into focus during early 2020, Martin told investors.

Inc (CVE:ZAIR) (OTCPINK:MGXRF) (FRA:0E9) has announced that 2021 will be an anchor year as it advances its Zinc-air Energy Storage System toward commercialization. The company recently raised $15 million in funding and has leased a 16,000 square-foot testing and assembly facility. It intends to build five Zinc-air batteries to complete the certification process and advance the production schedule by establishing pilot production capability. 2021 will be the anchor year as the company aims to be in small-scale production in 18-24 months, Zinc8 said in a statement. Looking ahead, for the first 12 months of production starting in 4Q 2022 and based on a 3MW to 10MW (megawatt) production range, the company said the potential revenue impact could be $6 million to $20 million, assuming $200 per kWh (kilowatt).

Phyto Extractions Inc ( ) ( ), formerly named Adastra Labs Holdings Ltd, has announced that interim CEO and director J. Scott Munro is moving on. The company said it has identified a new permanent candidate for the CEO post and an additional director to fill the vacancy created by Munro's transition. It added that it expects to announce the appointments in the immediate future and that such appointments will continue the great work completed to date that has positioned the brand as a provider of quality cannabis products.

( ) ( ) (FRA:6F6) posted fourth-quarter and full-year results on Friday, revealing net income growth and a swing into positive earnings in both instances. For the three months ended December 31, the company saw net income of C$8.4 million, an increase of 64% from C$5.1 million in the same quarter a year ago. Earnings were C$0.11 per share, up year-over-year from a loss of C$0.07. In 2020 as a whole, Victory Squares net income was C$19.7 million, easily more than double the C$8.9 million it recorded in 2019. Earnings were C$0.30 per share, up from a loss of $C0.10.

Ltd ( ) (OTCQB:GRSLF) revealed high-grade silver results from a drilling program at the San Juan area of its Plomosas silver project in Mexico. New drill results show that high-grade mineralization extends 100 metres to the north along strike in the San Juan vein, the company said. Another wide mineralized zone of up to 65 metres continuous silver was delineated on the footwall of the Yecora vein, defining shallow wide mineralized zones that will be included in an upcoming maiden resource estimate.

( ) ( ) (FRA:4UY) announced it has been shortlisted for two 2021 EGR North America online gaming awards in the Full-Service Platform Provider and Sportsbook Platform Provider categories. The company said the EGR Awards recognize and reward the top suppliers and operators in the fast-growing North American online gaming market, with the winners being selected based on their achievements in advancing the gaming industry across various verticals.

Corp ( ), part of the Ore Group led by Stephen Stewart, has begun trading its shares under the ticker symbol 'AE' on the TSX Venture Exchange. The Nevada-focused exploration companys flagship asset is the Golden Trend Project, immediately adjacent to Nevada Gold Mine's (Barrick and Newmont JV) Goldrush deposit within the Cortez Trend. American Eagle is exploring for large Carlin-style type deposits within the same geologic environment as the adjacent Goldrush and Cortez Mines. In a statement, American Eagle CEO Anthony Moreau said: "Golden Trend is underexplored given its prime location, attached to Newmont and Barrick's operations. American Eagle has a clear plan in place to move the project quickly forward towards a drill program."

Marvel Discovery Corp ( ) (FRA:O4T) (OTCPINK:IMTFF) reports that its plans to spin out its Serpent River/Pecors and Wicheeda North properties are advancing. The spin-out, which will place the properties into a newly incorporated, wholly-owned subsidiary of the company called Power One Resources Corp, won shareholder approval on April 23, followed by the Supreme Court of British Columbias okay on April 28.

Esports Entertainment Group Inc ( ), an esports and online gambling company, has announced its participation in Noble Capital Markets' C-Suite Interview Series, presented by Channelchek. CEO Grant Johnson sat down with Noble Capital Markets Senior Research Analyst Mike Kupinski for this exclusive interview. Topics covered include: How its vertical integration strategy differentiates the company; funding and closing the Helix acquisition; the regulatory outlook in New Jersey and other states; organically growing relationships with professional sports teams; M&A strategy; and catalysts that will move the stock price. The interview was recorded on April 28 and is available now on Channelchek.

BioSig Technologies Inc ( ) says CEO Ken Londoner will provide a keynote update during the Wall Street Conference on May 5 at 12:05 pm ET. The invitation-only event is due to take place at Mar-a-Lago in West Palm Beach, Florida. Twelve companies from the MedTech, biotech, and technology sectors have been invited to present during the event attended by the financial industry leaders, government representatives, and business leaders across various industries. BioSigs PURE EP System is an advanced signal acquisition and processing platform that aims to drive procedural efficiency and efficacy in electrophysiology. The system provides essential diagnostic signals with high clinical value in all cardiac ablations that treat irregular heartbeats or arrhythmias.

Benchmark Metals ( ) ( ) says President Jim Greig will present live at the VirtualInvestorConferences.com on May 5 at 2 pm ET. The company invites individual and institutional investors, as well as advisors and analysts, to attend real-time, interactive presentations at the virtual confab. Benchmark Metals is focused on developing the substantial resource potential of its huge Lawyers asset, which sits in the prolific Golden Horseshoe of northern British Columbia.

KULR Technology Group Inc ( ), a leading developer of next-generation lithium-ion battery safety and thermal management technologies, says CEO Michael Mo will participate in 's Fireside Chat Series on May 5 at 2 pm ET. The Discussion Topic is: Driving KULR's Growth and Commercialization Strategy. The fireside chat is open to all investors and interested parties. Those participating in the event must register using the link below. Please note that registration for the live event is limited but may be accessed at any time for replay after the presentation ends until May 19, utilizing the same registration link. Registration Link: https://globalmeet.webcasts.com/starthere.jsp?ei=1460250&tp_key=64320f3e98

( ) (OTCQB:TKRFF) a junior company focused on its 100%-owned Ayawilca Silver-Zinc Project in central Peru, announced that CEO Graham Carman CEO will speak live at VirtualInvestorConferences.com at 9:30am ET on May 4. This will be a live, interactive online event where investors are invited to ask the company questions in real-time. Interested parties can view the Carmans talk here. Virtual Investor Conferences is the proprietary series from ( ).
KING OF PRUSSIA, Pa., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Pennsylvania Dermatology Partners announced today that they've completed a rebrand initiative which includes a new logo and company name, Dermatology Partners. This strategic move for the company makes sense following their expansion into the state of Delaware earlier this year and the growth they've seen as a company in 2020. Founded in 2012, the company has grown from one location in Berks County to soon-to-be twenty-three with the opening of their new flagship office in King of Prussia later this spring.

"We are excited to take this next step as an organization. We believe this new brand maintains the core values with which we were founded, while also communicating the strength behind the network of dermatological providers we've built. Under this new brand, our teams will continue to provide their communities with expert dermatological treatments and exceptional patient care," said CEO Dr. Daniel Shurman.

The medical professionals at Dermatology Partners treat a full spectrum of diseases of the skin, hair, and nails and specialize in the detection and treatment of skin cancers. They will continue to provide the same quality patient care and expertise in the latest dermatological treatment options. Caring for the whole patient, and working hard to ensure the patient's long-term health and total satisfaction with their services will continue to be top priorities for the company. Dermatology Partners' recent growth has allowed them to improve access to great dermatological care in new communities throughout the region, something they're extremely proud of.

"Our growth has been somewhat organic and we've been fortunate enough to be in a position to say yes when the opportunities have presented themselves. Our expansion into different regions has allowed us to hire some of the best dermatology providers and offer our expertise in communities where there may not have been many options for dermatological care. The rebrand of our company was necessary given our expansion, but patients can anticipate the same quality care and expertise that they've come to expect from our teams," said the company's Chief Operating Officer, Andrew Frankel.

To learn more about Dermatology Partners, their services, and locations, visit their website: www.DermPartners.com

About Dermatology Partners

Dermatology Partners is the region's fastest growing dermatology practice with 22 Pennsylvania and Delaware offices. Since 2012, Dermatology Partners has been dedicated to providing exceptional patient care and cutting-edge dermatology services to patients with its growing and talented team of medical practitioners. They specialize in the detection and treatment of skin cancers and their providers treat a full spectrum of diseases of the skin, hair, and nails. For more information, visit www.dermpartners.com or call (888) 895-3376.

Contact: Laura Leonard

Telephone: 610-288-2908 (office)

Email: [email protected]

Website: http://www.DermPartners.com

SOURCE Dermatology Partners
TSX.V: VIPR, OTC:VIPRF

Estimate includes Indicated Resources of 154,300 Oz Gold and 6,929,000 Oz Silver and Inferred Resources of 260,300 Oz Gold and 12,941,300 Oz Silver

El Rubi Zone returns an Indicated Resource of 6,179,000 tonnes grading 0.78 g/t gold and 35 g/t silver for 154,300 oz Au and 6,929,000 oz Ag, in addition to an Inferred Resource of 3,255,000 tonnes grading 0.90 g/t gold and 36 g/t silver for 94,100 oz Au and 3,750,000 oz Ag.

Con Virginia, El Oriental, Las Huatas and Las Huatas South add an Inferred Resource of 6,622,000 tonnes grading 0.71 g/t gold and 41 g/t silver for 152,200 oz Au and 8,739,800 oz Ag in open pit category, and 227,000 tonnes grading 1.92 g/t gold and 62 g/t silver for an additional 14,000 oz Au and 451,500 oz Ag in the underground category.

Gold and Silver Equivalents for Indicated resource equal 253,286 Oz Aueq OR 17,730,000 Oz Ageq at a ratio of 70:1.

Gold and Silver Equivalents for Inferred resource equal 445,176 Oz Aueq OR 31,162,300 Oz Ag equivalent at a ratio of 70:1.

Drilling and reconnaissance work continues to advance the early-stage La Virginia project.

VANCOUVER, BC, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ - Silver Viper Minerals Corp. (the "Company" or "Silver Viper") (TSXV: VIPR) is pleased to announce the first NI 43-101 mineral resource on the Company's La Virginia Silver-Gold Project in Sonora, Mexico. The resource estimate comprises five discrete deposits including the Company's priority target, El Rubi. The mineral resource estimate is based upon drilling completed by Silver Viper between 2018 and 2021 and by previous operators between 2010 and 2013 and has an effective date of May 1, 2021. The resource estimate table is detailed below.

Deposit Method Class Tonnes Capped

Au (g/t) Capped

Ag (g/t) Au Oz Ag Oz El Rubi Open pit Indicated 6,179,000 0.78 35 154,300 6,928,900 Total Open Pit Indicated 6,179,000 0.78 35 154,300 6,929,000















El Rubi Open pit Inferred 3,255,000 0.90 36 94,100 3,750,000 Con Virginia Open Pit Inferred 3,279,000 0.66 36 69,500 3,837,800 El Oriental Open Pit Inferred 91,000 1.47 28 4,300 81,900 Las Huatas Open Pit Inferred 3,169,000 0.76 47 77,300 4,749,900 Las Huatas S Open Pit Inferred 83,000 0.40 26 1,100 70,200 Total Open pit Inferred 9,877,000 0.78 39 246,300 12,489,800 Con Virginia Underground Inferred 39,000 1.52 121 1,900 152,700 El Oriental Underground Inferred 25,000 2.11 47 1,700 37,000 Las Huatas Underground Inferred 152,000 1.90 51 9,300 249,800 Las Huatas S Underground Inferred 11,000 3.19 34 1,100 12,000 Total Underground Inferred 227,000 1.92 62 14,000 451,500















Total

Indicated 6,179,000 0.78 35 154,300 6,929,000 Total

Inferred 10,104,000 0.80 40 260,300 12,941,300

(1) Mineral Resources which are not Mineral Reserves, do not have demonstrated economic viability. (2) The estimate of Mineral Resources may be materially affected by environmental, permitting, legal, title, taxation, socio-political, marketing, or other relevant issues. (3) The Inferred Mineral Resource in this estimate has a lower level of confidence than that applied to an Indicated Mineral Resource and must not be converted to a Mineral Reserve. It is reasonably expected that the majority of the Inferred Mineral Resource could be upgraded to an Indicated Mineral Resource with continued exploration. (4) The Mineral Resources were estimated using the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (CIM), CIM Standards on Mineral Resources and Reserves, Definitions and Guidelines prepared by the CIM Standing Committee on Reserve Definitions and adopted by the CIM Council.

Silver Viper's President and CEO Steve Cope states, "We are extremely pleased to achieve this milestone for the project, it is a validation of our persistence over the last three years and represents a huge step toward our goal of defining a new gold-silver camp in an underexplored region of Mexico. The drill is currently testing extensions of the El Rubi mineralized zone and our field crews continue to advance early-stage targets in preparation for drill testing later in the year."

Steve Cope, President, CEO & Director at Silver Viper Minerals, will be hosting two webinars this week to discuss the maiden resource in collaboration with Amvest Capital and Red Cloud.

The Amvest Capital webinar will be held on Tuesday May 4th @ 4:05 pm ET/ 1:05 pm PT. To view the Amvest webinar live, please register here: https://www.amvestcapital.com/webinar-directory/silverviper050421

The Red Cloud webinar will be held on Wednesday May 5th @ 2:00 pm ET / 11:00 am PT. To view the Red Cloud webinar live, please register here: https://www.redcloudfs.com/rcwebinar-vipr/

Replays of both webinars will also be available after the live broadcast.

The Mineral Resource Estimate was completed by independent consultant Dr. Gilles Arseneau P.Geo. of ARSENEAU Consulting Services Inc. The resources were estimated using three-dimensional block model software. All blocks for the Las Huatas, Con Virginia and El Rubi were estimated by ordinary kriging while all other deposits were estimated by ID2. Gold and silver grades within the mineralized domains were estimated in four successive passes for the Las Huatas and El Rubi domains and in a single pass for all other domains. The first pass considered a relatively small search ellipsoid, while the second and third pass search ellipsoids were larger. Pass four was restricted in inform blocks within the deposits, near drill holes that had not been estimated in the three previous passes. Search parameters were generally set to match the correlogram parameters but also designed to capture sufficient data to estimate a grade in the blocks. All grades were capped on 1.5 m composites and ranged from 3 to 15 g/t for gold and 50 to 1,000 g/t for silver.

Mineral resources are reported on a US dollar equivalent cut-off of $US20 (equivalent to a cut-off grade of 0.38 g/t gold OR 28.3 g/t silver) for open pit and $US100 (equivalent to a cut-off grade of 1.88 g/t gold OR 141.4 g/t silver) for underground resources. Reasonable prospect of potential economic extraction is determined by restricting the potentially open pit accessible resource inside a Whittle optimized pit shell based on $US 1,650/oz of gold and $US 22/oz of silver and recoveries of 94% for gold and 90% for silver, overall pit slopes of 50 degrees and a total operating cost of $US 20. Underground reasonable prospect of potential economic extraction is determined by assigning a cut-off of $US 100 to contiguous blocks within a maximum 200 m of the pit surface and a maximum vertical depth of 250 m.

Blocks were classified as indicated mineral resource for the El Rubi deposit if estimated during pass one with at least two drill holes with an average distance of 50 m or during pass two and informed by at least three drill holes within an average distance of less than 100 m. All other estimated blocks were classified as inferred mineral resource.

Geology

The La Virginia Project is an early-stage exploration property situated within a range of mountains in the Sierra Madre Occidental. The project is largely underlain by rocks of the Lower Volcanic Sequence uplifted and exposed by basin and range faulting. Mineralized showings occur largely within a kilometre-wide corridor aligned to the north-northwest regional trend defining the range. This corridor, as part of the regional fabric, extends for the length of the project. The Las Huatas, Con Virginia (includes La Virginia) and El Oriental deposits are located within a 3.0 kilometre portion of the trend. El Rubi is located 2.5 kilometres north of this group of deposits.

Outcropping mineralization on the project was first associated with steeply dipping dacite dykes more resistant to erosion than the country rock, forming low ridges on the hillsides. At Con Virginia, Las Huatas and El Oriental areas, mineralized veining has been shown to have exploited the same structures as the previously emplaced dykes. Gold and silver mineralization is often found along the contact zones of said dykes, hosted by andesite wall rock or by the dykes themselves in the form of thin quartz vein stockworks or breccias. Width and tenor of mineralization increase in areas where the hosting structure flexes or within dilationary openings formed by jogs between adjacent faults. This is apparent at both outcrop and project scales.

El Rubi deposit is situated on a mesa roughly 2.5 kilometres in diameter, immediately north of an east-west, fault-controlled canyon which separates and offsets it laterally from the main block hosting the other deposits. At El Rubi, mineralized structures remain steeply dipping, but demonstrate a north-west strike, indicating a flexure in the north-northwest structural trend. East-west, north-south and northwest-southeast trending faulting at this location has resulted in the formation of local blocks with vertical or lateral relative movement.

The geology of the El Rubi plateau is represented by a gently eastward-dipping volcanic sequence. Rhyolitic lapilli tuff on the western side of the mesa is overlain by a mixed volcanic package of andesitic composition. The andesite package reaches up to 300 m in thickness, and contains weakly porphyritic andesites interbedded with volcaniclastic and agglomeratic andesitic phases, further overlain by uniform feldspar-phyric andesite.

Mineralization at El Rubi has been intercepted by drilling over a strike length of 500 m and to a vertical depth of 300 m and represents a highly structurally controlled network of steeply dipping quartz veining and vein breccias. Strongest mineralization on the project to date has been encountered along the El Rubi structure, a northwest trending, fault-controlled, often silicified breccia/quartz stockwork zone which dips steeply to the east-northeast. The El Rubi structure marks the eastern extent of mineralization as modelled in this area. An additional zone of broad, low to medium grade silver-gold mineralization occupies the footwall of the El Rubi structure, extending up to 200 m west of the El Rubi trend. In some cases, the mixed andesite package in particular hosts broad zones of fine quartz stringers forming weak stockworks tens of metres in width. Silver Viper refers to this broad stockwork zone as the "Western Zone" represented by drill intercepts such as those in LV20-245 and LV20-284 (see News Releases dated August 26th, 2020 and March 1st, 2021 respectively).

Drilling at El Rubi has targeted the mineralized structures from several orientations, and the use of oriented drill core in four holes has assisted the interpretation used in constructing the model.

About the Project

La Virginia is located 220 kilometres east-northeast of Hermosillo, Sonora and is prospective for low-sulphidation epithermal precious metal mineralization. The Property and historical exploration database were acquired by way of option agreements made with two distinct parties. Gold and silver mineralization at La Virginia occurs within breccias, veins and stockworks, hosted primarily by andesitic volcanics, often in close spatial association to, or cross-cutting pre-mineral dacite dykes and controlled by fractures and faults that define the regional structural trend. Silver Viper's reconnaissance program identified key targets and trends which are of primary interest and subsequently filed strategic reductions in claims to attain the current project surface area of 6,882 hectares.

At the completion of the 2020 phase of work at La Virginia, Silver Viper had completed a total of 100 drill holes for a combined meterage of 27,021 metres across the project. Exploration drilling continues at La Virginia using a single diamond drill supplied by Hermosillo-based drill contractor, Globexplore Drilling Corp. Drilling by the Company to date builds upon a sizeable database of recent historical work including 52,635 metres of drill core from 188 diamond drill holes, generated by the efforts of previous operators between 2010 and 2013. Silver Viper is expanding upon this work by continuing exploration north and south into prospective untested ground.

QA/QC

Analytical results of drilling intercepts reported by Silver Viper represent samples of halved HQ or NQ2 diameter diamond drill core submitted directly to Bureau Veritas, Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico. Samples were crushed, split and pulverized as per Bureau Veritas method PRP70-250, then analyzed for gold by lead collection fire assay fusion on a 30 gram split with AAS finish, and for a multi-element suite including silver by multi-acid digestion with ICP-ES/MS finish. Samples triggering precious metal over-limit thresholds of 10g/t Au or 200g/t Ag were re-tested by lead collection fire assay fusion with gravimetric finish (method code FA530. Silver Viper monitors QA/QC using commercially sourced standards and locally sourced blank materials inserted within the sample sequence at regular intervals.

Silver Viper has possession of all current and historical diamond drill core and sample pulps as generated on the property since 2010. The Company has conducted a review of the historical drilling data by physical checks of existing drill pads and drill core and verified the tenor of mineralized intervals by portable XRF on core and sample pulps. Silver Viper has further confirmed the veracity of historical data by diamond drilling of ten core holes at Las Huatas, Con Virginia, and the northern extension of El Oriental target areas. This work confirms the accuracy of location and ranges of mineralization as indicated by the 2010-2013 database.

Dale Brittliffe, P.Geo., Vice President of Exploration, is the 'Qualified Person' under National Instrument 43-101 and has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information contained in this news release. Ongoing verification of scientific and technical information is achieved by direct involvement in the exploration work, the most recent site visit was conducted in November 2020.

About the Company

Silver Viper Minerals Corp. is a Canadian-based junior mineral exploration company focused on precious metals exploration in the northwestern Mexican state of Sonora. The Company currently operates the La Virginia Gold-Silver Project. Silver Viper has 100% ownership of the La Virginia concessions acquired from the most recent operator, Pan American Silver Corp., and has an option to acquire a 100% interest in the Rubi-Esperanza group of claims internal to those concessions. Silver Viper is under management provided by the Belcarra Group, which is comprised of highly qualified mining professionals.

On behalf of the board of directors,

Steve Cope

President and CEO

Forward Looking Information

Information set forth in this press release contains forward-looking statements. These statements reflect management's current estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations; they are not guarantees of future performance. The Company cautions that all forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain and that actual performance may be affected by a number of material factors, many of which are beyond the Company's control. Such factors include, among other things: risks and uncertainties relating to exploration and development, the ability of the Company to obtain additional financing, the need to comply with environmental and governmental regulations, fluctuations in the prices of commodities, operating hazards and risks, competition and other risks and uncertainties, including those described in the Company's financial statements available on www.sedar.com. Accordingly, actual and future events, conditions and results may differ materially from the estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations expressed or implied in the forward-looking information. Except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking information.

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.

SOURCE Silver Viper Minerals Corp.

Related Links

https://www.silverviperminerals.com/


NEW YORK, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Starboard Value LP (together with its affiliates, "Starboard"), one of the largest stockholders of Box, Inc. ("Box" or the "Company") (NYSE: BOX), with an ownership interest of approximately 7.7% of the Company's outstanding shares, today delivered an open letter to Box stockholders in connection with the Company's 2021 Annual Meeting of Stockholders.

The full text of Starboard's open letter to Box stockholders follows and can also be viewed at the following link: https://www.starboardvalue.com/wp-content/uploads/Starboard_Value_LP_Letter_to_Box_Stockholders_05.03.2021.pdf

A LETTER TO THE STOCKHOLDERS OF BOX, INC.

May 3, 2021

Dear Fellow Stockholders,

Starboard Value LP (together with its affiliates, "Starboard" or "we") has been a stockholder of Box, Inc. ("Box" or the "Company") for approximately two years. We currently own approximately 7.7% of the outstanding common stock of Box, making us one of the Company's largest stockholders. While we appreciate the dialogue we have had with Box's management team and Board of Directors (the "Board") over the past two years, we have grown increasingly frustrated with continued poor results, questionable capital allocation decisions, and subpar shareholder returns.

Over the past two years we have kept the entirety of our communications with the Company private in the hopes of building a collaborative partnership to drive long-term shareholder value. From the outset, we have been clear that in order for value to be created, Box needed to significantly improve both growth and profitability, as well as meaningfully lower its equity compensation expense and improve capital allocation. To that end, we have spent significant time with members of management reviewing our analysis and recommendations on topics such as growth opportunities, commercial and sales execution, salesforce productivity, cost management, equity incentives, and margin expansion opportunities. Last year, when we communicated our view that significant changes were needed at Box, we were urged by the Board and management team to give the Company even more time to execute and were told that this time would be different. Following this dialogue, and a commitment by management and the Board to address our concerns, we agreed with the Board to reach a settlement last year that led to the appointment of two independent directors that we recommended and the formation of an Operating Committee of the Board. At the time, we agreed not to have direct representation on the Board, as members of the Board committed to us they would work with management to address our concerns, hold management accountable for results, and ensure that value was created for the benefit of all stockholders.

At the time of our settlement, we stated that "[w]e see a number of opportunities for substantial shareholder value creation and look forward to seeing the Company execute on opportunities to drive profitable growth towards a best-in-class financial profile." Unfortunately, execution has fallen well short of expectations, with last year's annual billings growth below 10% for the first time in the Company's public history, continued negative GAAP earnings, and a share price that is still below where it closed after its first day of trading following its IPO more than six years ago1. Although some progress was made on non-GAAP operating margins (in an environment where most companies saw lower operating expenses due to COVID-19 related benefits), Box has not been able to address any of the other issues we identified. These disappointing results have been delivered against a backdrop of extremely healthy trends in the software industry, with many cloud-native software companies experiencing rapid growth, significant margin expansion, and dramatic share price growth during this time. Despite this subpar performance, the Board has failed to take meaningful and decisive actions to change the trajectory of the Company, and the status quo largely remains.

To make matters worse, Box has recently executed two financing transactions within four months, neither of which were necessary, as the Company already had $225 million of net cash prior to these financings and generates cash each quarter2. The second financing was transparently done to insulate management and the Board ahead of a potential election contest with Starboard, by issuing a $500 million voting convertible preferred security, which represents more than 10% of shares outstanding and requires that the preferred vote on an as-converted basis in accordance with the Board's recommendations. The stated use of proceeds from this financing is solely to execute a $500 million share repurchase, which means the Company is issuing $500 million of convertible preferred equity in order to repurchase $500 million of common equity. The only viable explanation for this financing is a shameless and utterly transparent attempt to "buy the vote" and shows complete disregard for proper corporate governance and fiscal discipline.

These recent actions, coupled with the continued underperformance and lack of value creation at Box, lead us to believe that further changes are both warranted and needed on the Board in order to provide fresh perspectives, renewed accountability to stockholders, and importantly, the objectivity and perspective to make difficult decisions without the burden of attachment to the past. Despite our frustration and concern regarding the Company's poor results and the most recent financing transaction, we have continued to engage with the Board constructively and in good faith, in hopes of reaching an acceptable outcome so that we can work together to represent the best interests of all stockholders. However, to date, the Board has refused our attempts to work together, and we appear to be at an impasse.

We believe Box can and should be a vibrant company addressing unmet needs in a large and growing category of the enterprise software market with its cloud-native content management solution. We believe the issues at Box are largely company specific and self-inflicted. There is no good reason that Box should be unable to deliver improved growth and profitability, at least in-line with better performing software companies, which, in turn, would create significant shareholder value.

As such, in accordance with the Company's governance deadlines and in order to preserve our rights as stockholders, we intend to deliver to Box a formal notice nominating highly qualified director candidates for election at the 2021 Annual Meeting of Stockholders ahead of the upcoming deadline.

We look forward to sharing details on our nominees and further thoughts on the opportunities at Box with our fellow stockholders in the coming weeks and months. We believe Box has a bright future and, with proper governance and oversight, can achieve significantly improved results and create substantial long-term shareholder value. Our interests are directly aligned with yours, and we commit to taking actions we believe will best represent our collective interests. We remain open-minded about reaching a mutually agreeable solution with Box and will continue our engagement with the Company. Thank you for your consideration and support.

Respectfully,

Peter A. Feld

Managing Member

Starboard Value LP

About Starboard Value LP

Starboard Value LP is a New York-based investment adviser with a focused and fundamental approach to investing in publicly traded U.S. companies. Starboard seeks to invest in deeply undervalued companies and actively engage with management teams and boards of directors to identify and execute on opportunities to unlock value for the benefit of all shareholders.

Investor contacts:

Peter Feld, (212) 201-4878

Gavin Molinelli, (212) 201-4828

www.starboardvalue.com

CERTAIN INFORMATION CONCERNING THE PARTICIPANTS

Starboard Value LP, together with the other participants named herein (collectively, "Starboard"), intends to file a preliminary proxy statement and accompanying WHITE proxy card with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") to be used to solicit votes for the election of a slate of highly-qualified director nominees at the 2021 annual meeting of stockholders of Box, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the "Company").

STARBOARD STRONGLY ADVISES ALL STOCKHOLDERS OF THE COMPANY TO READ THE PROXY STATEMENT AND OTHER PROXY MATERIALS AS THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION. SUCH PROXY MATERIALS WILL BE AVAILABLE AT NO CHARGE ON THE SEC'S WEB SITE AT HTTP://WWW.SEC.GOV. IN ADDITION, THE PARTICIPANTS IN THIS PROXY SOLICITATION WILL PROVIDE COPIES OF THE PROXY STATEMENT WITHOUT CHARGE, WHEN AVAILABLE, UPON REQUEST. REQUESTS FOR COPIES SHOULD BE DIRECTED TO THE PARTICIPANTS' PROXY SOLICITOR.

The participants in the proxy solicitation are anticipated to be Starboard Value and Opportunity Master Fund Ltd ("Starboard V&O Fund"), Starboard Value and Opportunity S LLC ("Starboard S LLC"), Starboard Value and Opportunity C LP ("Starboard C LP"), Starboard Value and Opportunity Master Fund L LP ("Starboard L Master"), Starboard Value L LP ("Starboard L GP"), Starboard Value R LP ("Starboard R LP"), Starboard Value R GP LLC ("Starboard R GP"), Starboard X Master Fund Ltd ("Starboard X Master"), Starboard Value LP, Starboard Value GP LLC ("Starboard Value GP"), Starboard Principal Co LP ("Principal Co"), Starboard Principal Co GP LLC ("Principal GP"), Jeffrey C. Smith and Peter A. Feld.

As of the date hereof, Starboard V&O Fund beneficially owns directly 6,620,735 shares of Class A Common Stock, par value $0.0001 per share, of the Company (the "Common Stock"). As of the date hereof, Starboard S LLC directly owns 1,228,808 shares of Common Stock. As of the date hereof, Starboard C LP directly owns 719,046 shares of Common Stock. As of the date hereof, Starboard L Master directly owns 630,304 shares of Common Stock. Starboard L GP, as the general partner of Starboard L Master, may be deemed the beneficial owner of the 630,304 shares of Common Stock owned by Starboard L Master. Starboard R LP, as the general partner of Starboard C LP, may be deemed the beneficial owner of the 719,046 shares of Common Stock owned by Starboard C LP. Starboard R GP, as the general partner of Starboard R LP and Starboard L GP, may be deemed the beneficial owner of an aggregate of 1,349,350 shares of Common Stock owned by Starboard C LP and Starboard L Master. As of the date hereof, Starboard X Master directly owns 1,283,645 shares of Common Stock. As of the date hereof, 2,065,861 of Common Stock were held in an account managed by Starboard Value LP (the "Starboard Value LP Account"). Starboard Value LP, as the investment manager of each of Starboard V&O Fund, Starboard C LP, Starboard L Master and Starboard X Master and the Starboard Value LP Account and the manager of Starboard S LLC, may be deemed the beneficial owner of an aggregate of 12,548,399 shares of Common Stock directly owned by Starboard V&O Fund, Starboard S LLC, Starboard C LP, Starboard L Master, Starboard X Master and held in the Starboard Value LP Account. Each of Starboard Value GP, as the general partner of Starboard Value LP, Principal Co, as a member of Starboard Value GP, Principal GP, as the general partner of Principal Co and Messrs. Smith and Feld, as members of Principal GP and as members of each of the Management Committee of Starboard Value GP and the Management Committee of Principal GP, may be deemed the beneficial owner of 12,548,399 shares of Common Stock directly owned by Starboard V&O Fund, Starboard S LLC, Starboard C LP, Starboard L Master, Starboard X Master and held in the Starboard Value LP Account.

1 Source: Company filings, Bloomberg.

2 Source: Company filings.

SOURCE Starboard Value LP

Related Links

http://www.starboardvalue.com


NEW YORK, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Teach For America and Five Tier Inc. announced today the launch of a program to raise awareness for educators during Teacher Appreciation Week (May 3, 2021 - May 7, 2021).

The program will recognize educators at the Crossroads of the World - Times Square - on multiple digital billboards throughout the week. The Teach For America Teacher Appreciation Week Times Square Takeover will extend nationally as well through placements on approximately 200 national billboards in addition to ConnectedTV.

"This school year has required incredible resilience, creativity, innovation, and flexibility from our educators. They are working harder than ever to keep students engaged and learning," said Suzi Speedling, Vice President, Creative Director. "We're so grateful to have the opportunity to highlight the incredible educators in the Teach For America network and to publicly express our gratitude for the many ways they have stepped up to support their students and communities this year."

Frank O'Brien, Founder and CEO of Five Tier Inc, commented that "this is an exciting program for us for many reasons including working with a tremendous organization that has trusted us as a platform to help communicate their message over several years and opening up the opportunity to share that message nationally with a turnkey multi-channel media effort."

The program will run through Saturday, May 8, 2021. People are encouraged to visit www.teachforamerica.org or call 212-279-2080 for more information.

About Teach For America

Teach For America works in partnership with 350 urban and rural communities across the country to expand educational opportunity for children. Founded in 1990, Teach For America recruits and develops a diverse corps of outstanding leaders who make an initial two-year commitment to teach in high-need schools and become lifelong leaders in the effort to end educational inequity. Today, Teach For America is a force of over 64,000 alumni and corps members working in over 9,000 schools nationwide in pursuit of profound systemic change. From classrooms to districts to state houses across America, they are reimagining education to realize the day when every child has an equal opportunity to learn, lead, thrive, and co-create a future filled with possibility. Teach For America is a proud member of the AmeriCorps national service network. For more information, visit www.teachforamerica.org and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

About Five Tier Inc.

Five Tier is the world's leading Connected Media platform providing fast, affordable, comprehensive solutions for clients of all sizes that enable efficient, effective growth.

Five Tier has been featured on CNBC, Bloomberg, CheddarTV and NPR as well as in Forbes, Consumer Reports, and the New York Times.

Media Contact:

Robben Gold

Director of Communications, Five TIer Inc.

[email protected]

844.282.4376

SOURCE Teach For America

Related Links

http://www.teachforamerica.org


VANCOUVER, BC, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ - TechX Technologies Inc. ("TechX'' or the "Company'') (CSE: TECX) (OTC: TECXF) (FRA: C0B1), a company focused in emerging technologies across growth sectors including: crypto, blockchain, AI and cloud technologies, is pleased to announce that, further to its press release dated March 2, 2021, it has acquired a 100% interest in XPort Digital Limited ("XPort").

XPort is a merchant services fiat-to-crypto gateway solution offering credit card processing for cryptocurrency exchanges, wallets and other cryptocurrency businesses. XPort's credit card processing solution provides real-time competitive cryptocurrency pricing and low transaction fees. XPort's fiat-to-crypto on ramping service offers a plug-and-play customizable widget that can be set up quickly for merchants to process credit card transactions instantly and securely. In addition to the widget, merchants may also use Xport's API to integrate directly with their own platform.

Aaron Carter, will remain the CEO of XPort Digital. Mr. Carter has an extensive background in the financial industry and has worked with various fortune 500 companies in investment banking, online brokerage, market data and a prominent US equity exchange. At AlphaPoint, Mr. Carter played a pivotal role in building their whitelist exchange platform and developed a cohesive customer onboarding process that allowed sales to optimize their deal flow and exceed their target goals. At BATS Global Markets (formerly known as Direct Edge), Mr. Carter developed the exchange's surveillance and optimization programs which decreased latency and increased their daily trading volume market share while ensuring SEC regulations were adhered to. Mr. Carter has also worked closely with CEZA, the Philippines Cagayan Economic Zone Authority and helped establish their framework for trade data collection and analytics.

"My goal for XPort Digital Limited is to create a company that is, not only a key player in the crypto space, but one of the cutting edge industry leaders that other companies see as a benchmark for performance. I'm excited to join the TechX team and look forward to building a solid and profitable business. Merchants, exchanges and other cryptocurrency businesses can connect their cryptocurrencies to the platform and embed our white-label widget in their platform and be up and running within a few days" said Aaron Carter, CEO of Xport. "Consumers will also be able to purchase cryptocurrencies without signing up for an account on our upcoming website, buybitfast.com in the very near future.

"We are beyond excited to announce the acquisition of XPort Digital. With the explosion of exchanges and new tokens popping up daily and the lack of fiat to crypto on-ramping services, it's a great opportunity for Xport and TechX," said TechX CEO, Peter Green. "XPort's fiat to crypto on ramping offers the quickest and easiest solution for consumers to buy Bitcoin, Ethereum and other cryptocurrencies without setting up an account."

The Transaction

TechX entered into a share purchase agreement pursuant to which the shareholder of XPort agreed to sell all of the shares issued and outstanding in XPort in consideration of the issuance of 5,252,100 common shares in the capital of the Company (the "Shares") at a deemed value of $0.952 per share for a total aggregate consideration of C$5,000,000.

Investor Relations Engagement of NAI Interactive Ltd.

TechX is also pleased to announce that it has engaged NAI Interactive Ltd. ("NAI") to provide investor relations services to tap into key markets and attract investors from the Chinese community. The agreement is effective for a six-month term after which TechX can decide to continue on a month-to-month basis. TechX will pay NAI Interactive a monthly fee of C$2,500.

NAI Interactive is a leading market intelligence and investor relations service provider that serves as a bridge between public companies in North America and Chinese investors, nurturing investor loyalty and forming functional networks. Since its inception in 1998, NAI has been well trusted by Chinese investors in the US, Canada, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore and China.

About TechX Technologies Inc.

TechX Technologies Inc. (CSE:TECX) (OTC:TECXF) (FRA:C0B1) is a company focused on emerging technologies across growth sectors including: crypto, blockchain, AI and cloud technologies. Led by senior leaders and industry experts, TechX invests in and provides subject matter experts within portfolio companies to accelerate success and maximize value for shareholders. TechX's portfolio of companies includes Catalyx Exchange, Altsignals, Shiftinsights and XPort Digital.

About XPort Digital Limited

XPort is a merchant services fiat-to-crypto gateway solution offering credit card processing for cryptocurrency exchanges, wallets and other cryptocurrency businesses. XPort's credit card processing solution provides real-time competitive cryptocurrency pricing and low transaction fees. XPort's fiat-to-crypto on ramping service offers a plug-and-play customizable widget that can be set up quickly for merchants to process credit card transactions instantly and securely. In addition to the widget, merchants may also use Xport's API to integrate directly with their own platform.

On behalf of the board,

Peter Green, CEO

This news release may contain certain "Forward-Looking Statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and applicable Canadian securities laws. When or if used in this news release, the words "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect", "target, "plan", "forecast", "may", "schedule" and similar words or expressions identify forward-looking statements or information. Such statements represent the Company's current views with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by the Company, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social risks, contingencies and uncertainties. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause results, performance or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements or information to reflect changes in assumptions or changes in circumstances or any other events affecting such statements and information other than as required by applicable laws, rules and regulations.

SOURCE TechX Technologies Inc.

Related Links

https://tech-x.io/


The limited-edition Teva x Polaroid collection includes classic Teva sandal silhouettes utilizing recycled materials and a custom refurbished Polaroid 600 camera, allowing fans to capture new adventures more sustainably. Throughout the collection are pops of the classic Polaroid rainbow spectrum, combining the photography company's rich heritage with Teva's adventure-seeking DNA.

"Polaroid was a natural partner for this collaboration that demonstrates our shared belief in the power of creativity," said Erika Gabrielli, Senior Director Global Marketing at Teva. "Both of our brands evoke a happy nostalgia and we thought what better way to honor our fans than create a collection that invites expression and inspires them to make new memories."

Ready for all summer adventures, the capsule collection includes the Original Universal Polaroid in Grey, and the Midform Universal Polaroid in Red. The water-friendly styles feature the iconic, functional 4-point webbing upper silhouette, an EVA midsole, and a rubber outsole for all-day comfort and versatility. The bold grey and red base colors pop with a custom Polaroid Color Spectrum webbing on the heel strap. The sandals feature straps made of REPREVE recycled plastic yarn and are offered in inclusive sizing for all genders.

"Polaroid has always been about inspiring creativity, anytime, anywhere. We're excited to partner with a brand with a shared rich heritage to further that mission, encouraging people to find inspiration wherever their adventure takes them," said Marta Martinez, CMO of Polaroid.

Rounding out the collection is the consciously minded Teva x Polaroid 600 instant analog camera. Made from original Polaroid electronics that have been professionally refurbished and tested, the camera is cobranded and features the classic Polaroid Color Spectrum. A premium co-branded Teva x Polaroid camera strap made with REPREVE recycled yarn is also included to ensure the camera is easily accessible for capturing memories. The camera utilizes Polaroid 600 film in color or classic black and white with batteries built into each film pack. Film packs are sold separately.

The Teva x Polaroid limited-edition Original Universal Polaroid and Midform Universal Polaroid are available in extended sizing for all genders and retail for $70 and $80 respectively. The custom Teva x Polaroid 600 camera retails for $160. The capsule collection is available for purchase at teva.com and in select specialty retail stores worldwide.

Visit Teva.com for more information. #TevaxPolaroid

About Teva:

In 1984, Teva created the world's first sport sandal on the banks of the Grand Canyon. The brand outfits free-spirited adventure-seekers all over the world with versatile, modern outdoor footwear. In 2020, Teva committed to reducing the brand's environmental impact by ensuring 100% of its iconic straps are made with recycled plastic, so future generations can continue exploring the wild world around them. Learn more about Teva, a division of Deckers Brands, at teva.com or follow @Teva.

About Polaroid:

Polaroid was founded by Edwin Land in 1937 as an icon of innovation and engineering. It was the introduction of the breakthrough Polaroid SX-70 camera in 1972 that launched instant photography as we know it today, followed by landmark innovations such as the original OneStep, instant color film; and the Polaroid 600 and Spectra cameras and film formats.

Polaroid cameras went on to inspire artists such as Andy Warhol, Helmut Newton, Robert Mapplethorpe, Maripol, Keith Haring, and Guy Bourdin who raised the brand to the status of a cultural icon.

Today, Polaroid has analog instant photography at its core and represents the brand that people all over the world came to know and love for over 80 years. By unifying its entire product portfolio under one name, Polaroid is setting out its new vision as a global brand that will continue to create products that bring people together in human and meaningful ways.

Media Contact:

Teva: [email protected]

SOURCE Teva
DALLAS, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Texas Central Railroad is leveraging the experience and expertise of Kiewit Infrastructure South Co. (Kiewit) and affiliate Mass. Electric Construction Co. (Mass Electric) to install the core electrical systems needed for the high-speed train from Dallas to Houston to operate. The $1.6 billion contract with Kiewit includes the installation of core electrical systems including critical safety and systems elements like Traction power, signaling and communications equipment to enable the trains to operate safely and ensure the tracks and operators communicate with one another and with network operations.

The core systems that will be installed are a key component of the N700S Shinkansen technology being deployed for the Texas Central Railroad. Texas Central is using an integrated approach ensuring all parts of construction and operations are married together seamlessly both for safety and for efficient and cost-effective operations. Using a "complete systems approach" creates unparalleled safety performance with the trains, infrastructure and supporting high-speed rail technology designed and engineered to work together as an integrated unit.

"Kiewit and Mass. Electric are national leaders in installing complex and large-scale electric systems and have long track records of delivering high-quality rail systems safely and effectively," said Carlos Aguilar, CEO of Texas Central Railroad. "Combining their experience with the safety of an integrated system is essential to the operation of the Texas Central Railroad. Signing this contract is the next step in making the Texas Central Railroad the first high-speed rail system to be implemented in the United States."

Kiewit and Mass. Electric represent a more than 50-year tradition of outstanding performance on some of the nation's most high-profile rail transportation systems, including projects in Houston, Dallas, Denver, Seattle, Miami, Chicago, Washington D.C. and the Los Angeles metropolitan area.

"We commend Texas Central on their commitment to delivering the first high-speed rail system in the United States," said Mark Williams, Kiewit's project director at Mass. Electric. "Through their leadership and our extensive rail experience and expertise, we are well-equipped for success."

The system Texas Central Railroad proposes to build in Texas will replicate the proven Japanese Tokaido Shinkansen high-speed rail system, as operated by the Central Japan Railway Company (JRC). Texas Central chose this system because of its reputation as being one of the safest and most punctual train systems in the world. In its 55+ year history, it has transported over 10 billion passengers with an impeccable safety record of zero operational passenger fatalities and zero accidents since first deployed. This technology reliably moves more than 400,000 passengers every day.

The project will create an estimated 17,000 direct jobs during the six years of construction, over 20,000 supply chain jobs and more than 1,400 direct permanent jobs when the train is fully operational. The Texas Central project will use $7.3 billion of materials from US companies across 37 states. And, over the next 25 years, this project will have a direct cumulative economic impact of $36 billion.

In addition, Kiewit and MEC work closely with local trades across Texas including the craftsmen and women in the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers.

Texas Central has a comprehensive Business and Workforce Opportunity Program with a mission to promote the value and development of small, rural, and minority-, woman-, veteran- and disabled individual-owned businesses by offering fair and competitive opportunities to bid and participate in building and operating the Texas high-speed train.

About Texas Central. Texas Central, which includes its operating subsidiary Texas Central Railroad, is the company undertaking the development, design, construction, finance, and operation of the innovative new high-speed passenger train line that will connect the fourth and fifth largest economies in the country, North Texas and Greater Houston, in less than 90 minutes, with one stop in the Brazos Valley. For more information, visit www.texascentral.com.

About Kiewit. Kiewit is one of North America's largest and most respected construction and engineering organizations. With its roots dating back to 1884, the employee-owned organization operates through a network of subsidiaries in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Kiewit offers construction and engineering services in a variety of markets including transportation; oil, gas and chemical; power; building; water/wastewater; industrial; and mining. Kiewit had 2020 revenues of $12.5 billion and employs 27,000 staff and craft employees.

SOURCE Texas Central High Speed Rail

Related Links

http://www.texascentral.com


NEW YORK, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The American Association of Advertising Agencies (4A's), the leading trade organization for marketing communications agencies, today announced several new roles to its Executive Leadership Team. The appointments build on the organization's mission to help its members compete, as it builds a diverse leadership team with a proven track record for success to help propel the organization and its members forward. Ashwini Karandikar joins the 4A's as the new EVP, Media, Tech & Data; 4A's vet Mollie Rosen takes on a new role as EVP, Strategy, Insight & Innovation; and with the opportunity to further invest in expanding member engagement while delivering on the evolving needs within a membership that is split between holding and independent companies, Greg Walker has been promoted to EVP, Member Engagement & Development - Independent Agencies & Retention, and Brian Nienhaus has been promoted into the role of EVP, Member Engagement & Development - Holding Companies & Growth.

"At the 4A's, we know there are opportunities to focus our attention and offerings differently and we are committed to building a senior team that best serves the needs of today's members," said 4A's President and CEO Marla Kaplowitz. "The elevation and appointments of these leaders reflect our mission to further invest in the member experience, while also driving change within our own organization.Today's announcement is a testament to our continued commitment to drive diversity, equity and inclusion across our own organization while we also work to support the industry to be as diverse and inclusive as the brands that they represent. We know that we have more work to do but we are thrilled to welcome these new leaders to our senior team," added Kaplowitz.

The appointments also mark a significant shift at the 4A's organization as it continues to embrace the future of work amid the pandemic. With its new leaders spread across the U.S., the moves reflect the organization's dedication to finding the best talent, and allows its team to truly reflect the geographical breadth of its members.

As the new EVP, Media, Tech & Data, Ashwini Karandikar will provide leadership, guidance, advocacy and consultative support to member agencies on all media and data related issues including measurement, analytics, brand safety, programmatic, digital and distributed ledger technology. In addition to supporting members, Karandikar will work alongside industry partners across trade associations, media companies, platforms and technology providers. With over 25 years of experience in advertising, business development and operational excellence, Karandikar is an entrepreneurial executive who has built diverse and talented teams in over 50 markets and most recently worked as a senior advisor for McKinsey's High Tech, Media & Telecom Practice. Prior to that, she spent 10 years at Dentsu, initially at iProspect and then led Amnet (Dentsu's programmatic group) in the US. In 2013, she took on the role of Global President expanding the capabilities and offerings. She started her career in the US in Dallas, Texas at Tribal DDB and later Temerlin McLain followed by a client-side role at Match.com. Prior to joining Dentsu, Ashwini was at Range Online Media where she led client services for the expanding digital offerings.

After successfully leading Member Engagement & Development for the past seven years, Mollie Rosen is moving into a new role as EVP, Strategy, Insight & Innovation, with a focus on opportunities to enhance the member experience. Rosen will lead the 4A's Business Intelligence & Insight t eam as well as Creative Technology & Innovation. She joined the 4A's in 2014 after nearly 20 years in agency client leadership roles at McCann, D'Arcy, Saatchi & Saatchi, Publicis and Leo Burnett Atelier. During her time at the 4A's, Mollie has become a well-respected leader adding tremendous guidance and value to 4A's members as well as the industry. Her impact and efforts includes the launch of the annual Member Value Report, successfully leading StratFest events and passionately identifying needs for members.

Greg Walker who last served as SVP, Member Engagement & Development for the Southern Region at the 4A's, has been promoted to the EVP role within Member Engagement & Development leading Independent Agencies & Retention, with oversight of the 4A's Forum program, the Management Practitioners Forum event, and the Business Leadership committee. Walker has spent the past 11 years with the 4A's strengthening the membership in the South and facilitating strong relationships driving growth and retention. He leveraged his passion for members and the industry to reinvigorate the region  creating strong communities, unique local programs and driving value in membership. Prior to joining the 4A's, Walker was Director & VP, Presence, Alliance & Multicultural Marketing for Kodak in addition to several other roles during his tenure across 17 years. On the agency side for 15 years, Walker was the President & COO of Uniworld Group for several years, one of the leading minority-owned agencies specializing in multicultural advertising, as well as in Account Management positions with DMB&B.

Brian Nienhaus who last served as SVP, Member Engagement & Development for the Central Region at the 4A's, has been promoted to the new role of EVP, Member Engagement & Development focused on Holding Companies & Growth. In this newly focused role, Nienhaus will oversee member development and prospecting, the 4A's Strategy Committee, the annual StratFest conference and Jay Chiat Awards. Nienhaus' understanding of the industry and detailed knowledge of the challenges facing members from his own experience has made him valued by colleagues and members alike. He spent the past 15 months at the 4A's sharing his leadership experience as he focused on membership and opportunities including the development of The Future of Work series. Nienhaus has held leadership positions at holding company and independent agencies across full service, creative and digital shops including Digitas, Cramer-Krasselt, Grey, McCann and BBDO among others. He's also created new models including the Omnicom solution for McDonald's (We Are United) where as pitch lead and ultimately CEO, he worked to create a unique team across Omnicom agencies as well as external platform partners.

To learn more about the 4A's please visit: https://www.aaaa.org/ .

About the 4A's: The 4A's was established in 1917 to promote, advance, and defend the interests of our member agencies, employees and the advertising and marketing industries overall. We empower our members to drive commerce, spark connections, and shape culture through infinite creativity. With a focus on advocacy, talent and the value of creativity and technology to drive business growth and cultural change, the organization serves 600+ member agencies across 1,200 offices, which help direct more than 85% of total U.S. advertising spend. The 4A's includes the 4A's Benefits division, which insures more than 160,000 employees; the government relations team, who advocate for policies to support the industry; and the 4A's Foundation, which advocates for and connects multicultural talent to the marketing industry by fostering a culture of curiosity, creativity and craft to fuel a more equitable future for the industry.

Media Contact: Natalie Kawam, [email protected], 862-222-2239

SOURCE The American Association of Advertising Agencies (4A's)

Related Links

http://www.aaaa.org


NASSAU, Bahamas, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism & Aviation will be showing its appreciation to the travel agency community during a virtual in "Da Backyard" party on May 6.

Both Ellison 'Tommy' Thompson, Deputy Director General as well as Bridgette King, Executive Director Global Sales will be joined by other members of the Bahamas Tourism Office team for a fun, interactive afternoon featuring Bahamian music, a video montage, updates on what's happening in The Bahamas, games, a cocktail/mocktail demo, a virtual photobooth, as well as prize giveaways for the best dressed advisor in tropical attire. Learn about the relaunch of the Bahamas Specialist Program.

Although you will see a demonstration by a mixologist, courtesy of Warwick Paradise Island, you may want to have one ready to taste during "Da Backyard" party.

Bahama Mama:

1  oz. Gold Rum

1  oz. Nassau Royale Liqueur

1 oz. Coconut Rum

2 oz. Orange Juice

2 oz. Pineapple Juice

Dash of Angostura Bitters (optional)

1/6 oz. Grenadine

Mix ingredients and shake well. Pour over crushed ice in a tall glass and garnish with a slice of orange and two cherries.

*Eliminate the rum for a mocktail version of the Bahama Mama.

And join The Bahamas team to celebrate our travel agency partners on May 6 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. EST.

Click here to RSVP

ABOUT THE BAHAMAS

With over 700 islands and cays and 16 unique island destinations, The Bahamas lies just 50 miles off the coast of Florida, offering an easy fly away escape that transports travellers away from their everyday. The Islands of The Bahamas have world-class fishing, diving, boating and thousands of miles of the earth's most spectacular water and beaches waiting for families, couples and adventurers. Explore all the islands have to offer at www.bahamas.com or on Facebook, YouTube or Instagram to see why It's Better in The Bahamas.

PRESS INQUIRIES

Anita Johnson-Patty

Bahamas Ministry of Tourism & Aviation

[email protected]

Nicola Blazier / Nancy Drolet

Jesson + Co. Communications

[email protected]

[email protected]

SOURCE Bahamas Ministry of Tourism & Aviation
ORANGE, Calif., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- With the Cinco de Mayo holiday just around the corner, the makers of the HERDEZ brand, the No. 1 selling salsa brand in Mexico and a growing staple in kitchens across the United States, today is reminding fans of the great taste and convenience of its delicious salsas and ready-to-eat guacamole products. With a leading portfolio of Mexican products that includes salsas, dips, guacamole, peppers and more, the company wants everyonewhether you're celebrating at home with family or in a small gathering with friendsto recognize that the HERDEZ brand brings authentic Mexican flavors straight to your home in convenient, ready-to-eat options, perfect for any dining occasion.

"HERDEZ products offer simple, quality ingredients that represent the heart and soul of Mexican cooking, and our foods play a huge role during Cinco de Mayo festivities here in the U.S." comments Diana DeLoza, Director of Retail Marketing at MegaMex Foods. "As the world is easing back into small gatherings, we wanted to give our fans a few new ways to enjoy our foods as a key ingredient in favorite seasonal menus."

This Cinco de Mayo, try these tasty, new takes on traditional dishes that incorporates HERDEZ Salsa Verde, HERDEZ Guacamole Salsa and HERDEZ Traditional Guacamole:

For a tasty way to start the day, Mexican Eggs Benedict gives the quintessential brunch favorite a delicious makeover with authentic ingredients that kick up the heat, such as chorizo and a delectable ancho chile hollandaise sauce. For backyard get togethers or family gatherings, Mexican Potato Skins and Guacamole Salsa Deviled Eggs give traditional dishes a quick, flavor upgrade. For a non-fuss, low key celebration, this Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Verde is simple and easy to prepare and can be enjoyed with a side of Guacamole Salsa Rice. Both add heat but don't require heavy lifting in the kitchen. Another easy option that makes any meal memorable is a no-cook, authentic style Shrimp Aguachile, which is even better when topped with HERDEZ Traditional Guacamole. Kids and the young at heart will love the savory flavor or Salsa Verde Chilaquiles, which incorporates the spicy heat of HERDEZ Salsa Verde and transforms leftover tortilla chips or nachos into this popular and easy-to-make dishperfect for Cinco de Mayo or even breakfast the next day!

For more information on the HERDEZ brand, including recipes, nutritional information and where to buy, please visit www.herdeztraditions.com, or follow the brand on social media on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

ABOUT THE HERDEZ BRAND

The HERDEZ brand allows consumers to experience the real flavor and culture of Mexico at home with authentic salsas and sauces. The HERDEZ brand is the No. 1 selling salsa brand in Mexico and the leading authentic Mexican salsa brand in homes across the U.S. Best known for products such as HERDEZ Salsa Verde, Salsa Casera and the original Guacamole Salsa, the HERDEZ brand is founded on authenticity in flavor and quality you can trust. Innovative authentic flavor experiences is at the forefront of their success. The HERDEZ brand is part of MegaMex Foods, one of the fastest growing Mexican food companies in the U.S. focused on reimagining Mexican flavor. For more information and recipe ideas, visit http://www.herdeztraditions.com or follow the HERDEZ brand on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and Twitter.

ABOUT MEGAMEX FOODS, LLC.

MegaMex Foods, one of the fastest growing Mexican food companies in the U.S., is focused on reimagining Mexican flavor in restaurants and home kitchens across the country. MegaMex Foods is proudly committed to authentic ingredients and providing a real solution for achieving true Mexican flavors with trusted products including WHOLLY, LA VICTORIA, HERDEZ, EMBASA, DONA MARIA, BUFALO and DON MIGUEL brands. Founded by Herdez del Fuerte and Hormel Foods, MegaMex Foods is headquartered in Orange, California, with facilities in Texas and Mexico. MegaMex Foods has two operating plants, numerous manufacturing partners and over 4,000 employees. For more information, visit www.megamexfoods.com and www.mmxfoodservice.com

SOURCE HERDEZ Brand
The company also said it received the initial US$2 million from the total US$5 million silver stream agreement with Empress Royalty Corp for its Tahuehueto project in Mexico

Results were boosted by a nearly 2% average month-over-month rise in zinc prices as well as a more than 4% month-over-month increase in the price of silver during the year

( ) (OTCMKTS:SOHFF) (FRA:TSGN) reported a 30% year-over-year increase its fiscal 2020 revenue to C$44.4 million as the companys Campo Morado mine production in Mexico increased at an average rate quarter over quarter of about 50%.

Results were also boosted by a nearly 2% average month-over-month rise in zinc prices as well as a more than 4% month-over-month increase in the price of silver during the year.

The company also recorded a net loss for the year that narrowed by 60% from 2019, as its general expenses in 2020, excluding impairment charges, fell by about 17% as a result of ongoing cost reduction initiatives.

Telson Mining noted it mined 343,141 tonnes of ore in 2020 grading 4.50% zinc, 1.04% lead, 119 grams per tonne (g/t) silver and 1.03 g/t gold, producing 28,031 tonnes of zinc concentrate and 5,794 tonnes of lead concentrate.

It added that about 27,864 tonnes of zinc and 5,926 tonnes of lead concentrates were sold during the year with an average grade of 46% and 22%, respectively.

Campo Morado is an operating polymetallic base metal mine with mining and milling equipment currently producing at an average of 2,150 tonnes per day and is estimated to be Mexico's sixth largest zinc producer.

As well, Telson announced it has received the initial US$2 million from the total US$5 million silver stream agreement with Empress Royalty Corp for its Tahuehueto project in Mexico. The stream is part of a US$25 million full financing solution being provided by Empress, Accendo Banco and Endeavour Financial, which included an US$8 million equity private placement that closed on March 30.

The Tahuehueto mining project is a 7,500-hectare property located in northwestern Mexicos Durango State, which is currently under construction, having advanced to about 70% completion and is waiting for final funding to finish construction of the processing plant and related assets to produce gold, silver, lead and zinc in concentrates within its own on-site mineral processing facility, with a designed capacity of at least 1,000 tonnes per day.

The company is targeting completion of construction during 2021, six to eight months after securing final funding.

Contact Sean at sean@proactiveinvestors.com
COLLEGE PARK, Md., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The University of Maryland has named Jennifer King Rice Ph.D., as Senior Vice President and Provost, effective August 11, 2021. The Senior Vice President and Provost is the second-ranking officer of the university, reporting directly to the President.

As Senior Vice President, Rice will lead the university in its mission to advance academic excellence while promoting social justice, cultural diversity, resource conservation, and economic opportunity. As chief academic officer, Rice will provide leadership and oversight for the development and implementation of all academic planning, policies, and budgeting; review all academic appointments and make recommendations to the President on all promotion and tenure decisions; and ensure the excellence and diversity of programs, faculty, and students across the entire university.

"It is an honor to be selected as Provost at the University of Maryland, a place and community that I love and am proud to serve," said Rice. "With our president's overarching commitment to excellence in all that we do, we are seizing a moment of great potential to contribute to our state and broader society in new and innovative ways. I look forward to partnering with stellar academic colleagues and administrators to cultivate a diverse and inclusive environment where everyone has the opportunity to fully participate and succeed.

Rice currently serves as the dean of UMD's College of Education and professor of education policy. In this role, Rice has focused her efforts to align educational resources with key initiatives to advance excellence, equity and social justice in preschool through graduate school. Upon becoming dean, she led the College of Education community through an inclusive strategic planning process, which has resulted in new and innovative initiatives to promote the College's shared values, vision and goals. Her emphasis on college-level research infrastructure, enhancements in instructional programming and diversity, equity and inclusion have propelled the college forward in reputation and rankings during her tenure.

"In naming our next Provost, I am thrilled to congratulate an esteemed researcher, a strategist, an advocate, a highly respected colleague, and a fellow Terp. I am continually impressed and inspired by Dr. Rice's extraordinary commitment to measurable impact policies and practices, diversity, equity and inclusion, and her many accomplishments as Dean," said Darryll Pines, University President. "I am looking forward to the academic future of this university with Dr. Rice as Senior Vice President and Provost."

As a national expert in education finance and policy, Rice regularly consults with policy organizations and agencies at the state and federal levels. She has been a National Academy of Education/Spencer Foundation Postdoctoral Fellow and a visiting fellow at the Urban Institute. She is currently a fellow of the National Education Policy Center, and served as president of the Association of Education Finance and Policy. She sits on two charter school boards, is a University System of Maryland representative on the Maryland State Teacher Certification Advisory Council, and recently co-chaired the Association of American Universities Annual Deans meeting. Dr. Rice also served as co-chair of the Maryland Education Deans and Directors Council.

As a UMD Distinguished Scholar-Teacher awardee, Dr. Rice has published numerous articles and book chapters. Her authored and edited books include Performance-Based Pay for Educators: Assessing the Evidence, Fiscal Policy in Urban Education, and Teacher Quality: Understanding the Effectiveness of Teacher Attributes, winner of the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education book award. She also served on the editorial boards of American Educational Research Journal and Educational Evaluation and Policy Analysis, and recently completed a term on the editorial board for Education Finance and Policy.

For over 25 years, Rice has served on the faculty and in college leadership roles at UMD. Prior to joining the faculty at Maryland, she was a researcher at Mathematica Policy Research. Dr. Rice earned her Ph.D. and M.S. degrees in Education Administration and Social Foundations from Cornell University. She also earned a B.S. in Mathematics and English from Marquette University, where she was recently honored with the Professional Achievement Award from the Marquette University Klingler College of Arts and Sciences.

About the University of Maryland

The University of Maryland, College Park is the state's flagship university and one of the nation's preeminent public research universities. A global leader in research, entrepreneurship and innovation, the university is home to more than 40,000 students,10,000 faculty and staff, and 280 academic programs. As one of the nation's top producers of Fulbright scholars, its faculty includes two Nobel laureates, three Pulitzer Prize winners and 58 members of the national academies. The institution has a $1.9 billion operating budget and secures $514 million annually in external research funding. For more information about the University of Maryland, College Park, visit www.umd.edu.

SOURCE University of Maryland
NEW YORK, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Khaled Salem, running for the U.S. Senate against Chuck Schumer in 2022, announced that he is working on plans which will bring an abundance of funds to the New York State budget. Khaled and his team are developing projects ready to be presented to Congress if he is elected. Khaled has spent years working on solutions to many issues faced by the state, including growing unemployment, violent crime, illegal street racing and ongoing parking controversies. He supports the NYC police department and implores them to take these issues more seriously. In addition to working on remedies targeting problems in New York, Khaled is also putting his energy into Middle East and human rights issues.

U.S. Senate Candidate Khaled Salem U.S. Senate Candidate Khaled Salem

"I believe that certain New York immigrant communities are living as exemplary citizens and ideal New Yorkers," said Khaled. "For example, there has been a growing issue of cars racing on New York streets. Lately, streets and boulevards are less busy, with less traffic, and sometimes empty due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The noise from these race cars as well as the noise from idling trucks and cars, tractor trailers, garbage trucks and construction is reducing the quality of life. New Yorkers should look to the example set by communities that function in a more civilized manner. Outstanding immigrant communities that work hard, develop businesses and are respectful of neighbors and the community-at-large include people from Israel, Yemen and the Philippines."

Khaled's ongoing philosophy is for Israel to work with nations to end Hamas and Hezbollah. He hopes to serve in the Senate and make a difference in the world.

Said Khaled, "What is funny about Middle East policy is that the Arab countries have agreed on only one thing, which is that they do not agree on anything. The Biden administration should understand this point when dealing with them."

Khaled policy positions argue for free university education, Khaled highlighted the irony of the US sending money to countries like Egypt and Middle East, which do provide free university, but whose people tend not to like America.

Some other key policy positions from Mr. Salem's agenda include:



Free university education for American students with a $0 budget from the government to support this plan.

Laws and procedures to reduce domestic violence nationwide.

A reduction in U.S. military activity and presence in the Middle East .

A policy that requires these regions pay for American military services.

The establishment of a home loan program for middle class single parents.

* Reduce the NY State Sales Tax for six years until the state recovers from COVID-19 economic hardship

Khaled asks New York Voters to look not at his religion or where he came from, but rather what he offers to the citizenry in terms of policy.

Salem is running in the next general election, scheduled for November 8, 2022. Thirty-four of the Senate's 100 seats are being contested in these elections.

For more information, visit https://www.khaled2022forcongress.com/

https://www.americanhumanrights.org/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IaBldfu ma0

[email protected]/

twitter.com/KhaledYork

Contact:

U.S. Senate Candidate Khaled Salem

1518 348 6868

[email protected]

SOURCE U.S. Senate Candidate Khaled Salem

Related Links

https://www.khaled2022forcongress.com/


NEW YORK, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- VaynerMedia announced today the launch of VaynerMedia LatAm, led by Managing Director and Head of LatAm Gabriela Fenton, most recently CEO of Saatchi & Saatchi Mexico. VaynerMedia is based in Mexico City and will service the broader Latin America region. Inaugural clients include Grupo Modelo, as well as TikTok which extended their US partnership to Latin America.

Gabriela Fenton

The launch of VaynerMedia in Latin America is indicative of the independently-owned agency's rapid global growth. Founded in the U.S. by CEO Gary Vaynerchuk in 2009, VaynerMedia has offices in New York and Los Angeles; London, which also services a number of European countries; and Singapore, which was established in 2019 to service the Asia Pacific region.

"VaynerMedia is built for today's marketing landscape, bucking the siloed approach most agencies take by having creative and media under one roof. This model has been highly successful with clients across the U.S., Europe and Asia Pacific and I am excited to bring it to the Latin America region," said Vaynerchuk. "Latin America has a rich history in advertising and it's therefore extremely important for VaynerMedia to establish our presence here, not only to enable us to service current clients in the region, but also to open the door to new relationships, and introduce our disruptive ways of thinking."

As Managing Director, Gabriela Fenton will be responsible for establishing the agency's presence in the marketplace and driving growth. Fenton has over 30 years of experience in the advertising industry and is the only female Art Director and CEO in Mexico. Having begun her career as a creative at agencies such as DDB and TBWA, she pivoted to the client service side, spending 19 years at Publicis Groupe where she assumed a number of roles, including VP of New Business Development, CEO of Marcel Worldwide, Prodigious and, most recently, CEO of Saatchi & Saatchi Mexico. Throughout her career, Fenton has worked with marquee clients such as PepsiCo, Nestle, Renault, Heineken, Palacio de Hierro and P&G. Fenton was named as one of the Women to Watch in Latin America.

"I am passionate about reinvention and ideas that transform and grow brands in multicultural and borderless environments," said Fenton. "This is what drew me to VaynerMedia. Their ability to evolve with the ever-changing needs of the consumer is extremely exciting. This, together with their integrated approach of having creative and media working simultaneously, is what is needed to refresh the advertising space in Latin America."

Added Vaynerchuk, "Gabriela is a passionate and innovative leader with a wealth of experience in the region. And most importantly, she has a great deal of kindness and empathy -- key values at VaynerMedia. I can't wait to see what she does in the region."

VaynerMedia works with some of the world's largest brands across the globe, including PepsiCo, Kraft Heinz, ABInBev, and TikTok.

ABOUT VAYNERMEDIA

VaynerMedia is a contemporary global creative and media agency with an expertise in driving relevance for clients and delivering impactful business results. The independently-owned agency was founded in 2009 and has offices in New York, Los Angeles, London, Singapore and Mexico City. VaynerMedia has been recognized for its work at Cannes Lions, the Clio Awards and The Webby Awards. It is part of the VaynerX family of companies.

Contact: [email protected]

SOURCE VaynerMedia
NEW YORK, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Due to the surging incidence of chronic and acute diseases, the pharmaceutical industry is booming. As many of the drugs are administered via injection, the expanding pharma sector is expected to propel the global vials market from $1,263.0 million in 2020 to $3,047.0 million by 2030, at an 8.6% CAGR between 2021 and 2030, according to the market research report published by P&S Intelligence.

Presently, the COVID-19 pandemic is wreaking havoc on the world, with more than 151 million cases and 3 million deaths recorded thus far. This has put the healthcare and pharma sectors under immense pressure to find a cure and a way to prevent the infection. As a result, extensive research and development (R&D) has unearthed numerous drugs, many of which have already received the regulatory approval and are now being used worldwide. Since most of these drugs are injectables, the pandemic is impacting the vials market positively.

Key Findings of Global Vials Market

Borosilicate preferred type of glass among end users

Rising demand for COVID-19 vaccines prompting increase in vial output

Pharma and biotech companies largest users of vials

Demand for vials highest in Europe

APAC to witness fastest growth in market

Industry has fragmented nature

Get the Sample Copy of this Report at @ https://www.psmarketresearch.com/market-analysis/vials-market-report/report-sample

In the past, pharmaceutical and biotech companies dominated the vials market under the end user segment, and they will also witness the fastest growth in the usage of vials in the near future. As these firms manufacture drugs in bulk, they require vials in large numbers. The rising demand for more-effective drugs, owing to the increasing prevalence of chronic and acute diseases, is propelling the procurement of such products by biotech and pharma companies.

Browse detailed report with COVID-19 impact analysis on Vials Market Research Report: By Glass Type (Borosilicate, Fused-Silica), End User (Pharmaceutical and Biotech Companies, Biomedical Research Organizations, Medical) - Global Industry Forecast to 2030 @ https://www.psmarketresearch.com/market-analysis/vials-market-report

Europe is currently the most-productive vials market on account of the expansion of its pharmaceutical industry, presence of established industry players, rise in the awareness regarding the newly launched drugs, and high purchasing power of Europeans. In the years to come, the demand for vials will likely witness the fastest surge in Asia-Pacific (APAC). Key vial and pharma companies in the region are increasing their production output to meet the increasing demand for COVID vaccines.

Make enquiry about this report at @ https://www.psmarketresearch.com/send-enquiry?enquiry-url=vials-market-report

Major players in the global vials market include Phoenix Glass LLC, Hanna Instruments, Pacific Vial Manufacturing Inc., PIRAMIDA d.o.o., Acme Vial and Glass Company LLC, O.Berk, SGD Pharma, SCHOTT AG, Stevanato Group, Gerresheimer AG, Amposan S.A., Corning Incorporated, TricorBraun Inc., Piramal Glass Limited, Borosil Limited, Nipro Corporation, Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc., and PerkinElmer Inc.

Browse Other Related Reports

Nebulizer Market Research Report - Geographically, North America dominated the nebulizer market in 2019, because of the increasing number of respiratory diseases, rising number of product launches, and high healthcare spending.

Prefilled Syringes Market Research Report - Globally, Europe contributed the highest revenue to the prefilled syringes market in 2020, because of the high incidence of non-communicable diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes in the region.

About P&S Intelligence

P&S Intelligence is a provider of market research and consulting services catering to the market information needs of burgeoning industries across the world. Providing the plinth of market intelligence, P&S as an enterprising research and consulting company, believes in providing thorough landscape analyses on the ever-changing market scenario, to empower companies to make informed decisions and base their business strategies with astuteness.

Contact:

Prajneesh Kumar

P&S Intelligence

Contact: +1-347-960-6455

Email: [email protected]

Web: https://www.psmarketresearch.com

SOURCE P&S Intelligence
WARREN, N.J., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- GSK Consumer Healthcare (LSE/NYSE: GSK), the makers of Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel (diclofenac sodium topical gel, 1%) today revealed new data that uncovers a painful truth: for people with osteoarthritis (OA), mornings can be the most difficult part of the day. The study, conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Voltaren, found that among 1,000 people with OA surveyed, 67% of Americans reported their joint pain makes it difficult for them to get out of bed in the morning based on their activities from the previous day. This May, national Arthritis Awareness Month, Voltaren is empowering those with joint pain and stiffness to feel the joy of movement and help them take on their day.

After a night of inactivity, aches and pains can be at their worst first thing in the morning. In fact, a painful morning can throw off your entire day, the study shows. Nearly three-quarters of respondents reported that feeling OA pain when they wake up ruins their entire morning, and more than three-quarters of those surveyed reported OA negatively affects them three or more days a week. While 35% described themselves as early birds prior to being diagnosed with OA, only one-quarter are still early risers since learning they have OA.

Joint pain can also impact the livelihoods of people with OA. For the millions of Americans who wake up for work with the sun, OA poses real challenges. The study found that 56% of employed Americans living with OA have shown up late to work because of their pain, and more than half have even had to change their jobs because of it.

"Our research has helped us understand the authentic experience of people with OA, and shows just how difficult mornings can be, especially those who are up and moving very early," said Rishi Mulgund, Pain Portfolio Brand Director at GSK Consumer Healthcare, "As a brand, we want to support people with OA in the mornings, with a topical option that is an alternative to pain relief pills."

Voltaren, the #1 doctor-recommended topical pain relief brand, is the first full prescription strength, clinically-proven nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) gel available over the counter. An alternative to pills, Voltaren is applied directly to the site of pain, delivering powerful arthritis pain relief. It is indicated for the treatment of arthritis pain in the hand, wrist, elbow, foot, ankle or knee. To date, millions of patients around the world have relied on Voltaren as a powerful, well-tolerated and convenient therapeutic alternative for treating arthritis pain.

During Arthritis Awareness Month, Voltaren is proud to feature the stories of real people living with osteoarthritis who wake up and power through early mornings. Stay tuned throughout the month of May for Voltaren's three-part content series, which will air on local and national broadcast and online news outlets, featuring people with OA who refuse to let pain hold them back, and pain relief experts who will offer their advice on how people everywhere can experience the joy of less painful mornings.

Additionally, as part of a multi-year partnership with the Arthritis Foundation to support scientific research, advocacy and community connections for people with arthritis, Voltaren is matching donations made to the Arthritis Foundation (up to $100,000) throughout Arthritis Awareness Month and lending its support to the Arthritis Foundation's annual Walk to Cure Arthritis events.

Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel is available online and at most major retailers nationwide. To learn more about Voltaren, visit www.voltarengel.com.

About Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel

An alternative to pills, Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel targets pain directly at the source to deliver clinically-proven nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine for powerful arthritis pain relief with a proven safety profile. For more information, visit https://www.VoltarenGel.com/.

About osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis. OA occurs when the cartilage between joints begins to break down and wear away, resulting in joint pain and stiffness. OA occurs more frequently with age, and the pain can gradually worsen over time. The most common symptoms associated with OA include joint pain, stiffness, and decreased range of motion.

GSK's commitment to pain relief

We are the world leader in pain relief. With a portfolio of (systemic and topical) products to relieve pain, our range brings comfort and ease to millions. World-leading brands including Advil, Panadol and Voltaren; and beloved local brands like Excedrin in the US and Fenbid in China help people manage their symptoms so they can enjoy life to the fullest.

Important safety information about Voltaren Arthritis Pain

Before using the product, consumers should read the Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel Drug Facts Label.

* Methodological Notes

The GSK Voltaren Survey was conducted by OnePoll (www.onepoll.us) throughout the month of April 2021. The survey sampled a random group of 1,000 employed Americans diagnosed with osteoarthritis.

This random double-opt-in survey was conducted by OnePoll  a market research company and corporate member of both the American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR) and the European Society for Opinion and Marketing Research (ESOMAR)  and adheres to the MRS code of conduct. For more information about OnePoll's research in the media, navigate to their portfolio here.

About GSK Consumer Healthcare

GSK Consumer Healthcare combines science and consumer insights to create innovative world-class health care brands that consumers trust and experts recommend for oral health, pain relief, respiratory and wellness. For further information please visit www.gsk.com.

Media Inquiries:













GSK Consumer Healthcare Caitlin Kormann +1 617 448 0557 (Warren) Edelman Jessica Moschella +1 201 953 1547 (New York City)

SOURCE GSK Consumer Healthcare

Related Links

http://www.gsk.com/


JACKSON, Wis., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Wisconsin Pharmacal Company, LLC and its wholly-owned subsidiary Lake Consumer Products, Inc. ("Wisconsin Pharmacal"), a leading manufacturer and distributor of OTC Health/First Aid and Outdoor/Safety products, today announced the acquisition of the ResQRinse Nasal Irrigation device.

"We are thrilled to acquire the ResQRinse device and plan to launch the product under Wisconsin Pharmacal's AllerRinse brand of nasal rinse products," commented Andrew Wundrock, President of Wisconsin Pharmacal. "The innovation and differentiation found in the ResQRinse device originally attracted us to the brand, and the fact that it is an ideal fit with our existing AllerRinse product portfolio.

The ResQRinse device features a patented "flow control" design that allows a user to control both the flow and volume of the saline rinse solution, resulting in a much more comfortable experience. "We see opportunity for innovation in this category segment, and the ResQRinse design helps deliver on that promise," Wundrock said.

"We actively pursue strategic acquisitions like this one, particularly of brands that represent our values and can benefit from our in-house manufacturing expertise as well as our relationships across all the major retail outlets, including Amazon, CVS, Target, Walgreens and Walmart." continued Mr. Wundrock.

Wisconsin Pharmacal plans to relaunch the new nasal irrigation technology at retail later this year under the AllerRinse brand.

About Wisconsin Pharmacal

Wisconsin Pharmacal is a diversified consumer products company that is FDA & EPA registered and manufactures and distributes long-established brands in the OTC Health/First Aid and Outdoor/Safety markets. Among its well-known brands are vH Essentials Feminine Health Products, MG217 Psoriasis/Eczema/ First Aid Products, Potable Aqua Water Purification Products, Sting-Eze Insect Bite Relief Products, Persani Instant Hand Sanitizer and Baitmate Fish Attractants. Wisconsin Pharmacal is also the official licensee of Coleman Insect Repellents and Coleman First Aid Products. In addition to its own portfolio of branded products, the company also provides strategic contract manufacturing services and unique consumer product formulations / product delivery systems for a growing number of store-branded and private label consumer products.

For more information, please visit www.pharmacalway.com and www.lakeconsumer.com

Media Contact

Shannon Wietor

Wisconsin Pharmacal Company, LLC

[email protected]

262-677-7135

SOURCE Wisconsin Pharmacal Company

Related Links

www.pharmacalway.com


LISBON, Portugal, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Golden Visas issued in Q1 2021 received 350,000 through real estate investment in the Urban Renewal area, 40 percent more than Q1 2020. Charles Taylor Harris, Executive Director at Get Golden Visa, advises that demand for housing in Lisbon's Urban Renewal area is particularly on the rise. Harris adds, "The recent report by Confidencial Imobiliario shows that the housing in Lisbon's Urban Renewal Area (ARU) welcomed 739,1 million international investment in 2020, even during the pandemic."

Lisbon Portugal

40 Percent of the Housing Investment in Lisbon's ARU Is From International Capital

The Chinese are leading the international investment in Lisbon's ARU, with 24 percent. They've increased their investment by 33 percent compared to 2019. The following nationalities are the French, American, British and Brazilian. According to the report, international buyers invested 490,500 per operation and 40 percent of the housing investment is from international investments.

Americans Invested 70 Percent More in Comparison to 2019

North Americans have increased their investment in Lisbon by 70 percent compared to 2019, as declared in the same report. According to Harris, healthcare is a huge motivation for Americans who are looking forward to overseas retirement. Another incentive is the cost of living. On average, the cost of living in Portugal is 30 percent lower than that of the USA.

Demand to Increase Before the Law Changes

Harris reports that the demand is going to increase as the rules of the program are going to change in 2022. Real estate investors who plan to buy properties in Lisbon, Porto, or coastal cities are speeding up. As of December 31st, 2021, property acquisition in these areas will no longer qualify investors for a Golden Visa.

The Most Affordable EU Citizenship Program Attracts Investors With a Good ROI

Harris explains that another motivation for the real estate investors to invest in Portugal is to rent out the property they purchased. They can rent out their house on a short- or long-term basis, even before they receive their residence permit. The low stay requirements to qualify for citizenship also add value to the program's affordability.

You may find details on the program at https://getgoldenvisa.com/portugal-golden-visa-program

About Get Golden Visa

Get Golden Visa helps investors and their families become global citizens by investing in residency and citizenship programs. Whether a property investment or a fund subscription they help their clients find the best solution that caters to their specific needs. Since 2014, they've provided more than 32,500 prospective investors with professional advice.

Contact:

Website: getgoldenvisa.com

Email: [email protected]

Related Images

portugal-golden-visa.jpg

Portugal Golden Visa

Lisbon Portugal

SOURCE Get Golden Visa
PHILADELPHIA, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Aberdeen Income Credit Strategies Fund (NYSE: ACP) (the "Fund"), today announced that it has priced an underwritten public offering of 1,600,000 shares of 5.25% Series A Perpetual Preferred Shares (the "Preferred Shares") at a public offering price of $25 per share, which will result in net proceeds to the Fund of approximately $38.2 million after payment of underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by the Fund.

The Fund has applied to list the Preferred Shares on the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") under the ticker symbol "ACP.P." If the application is approved, trading on the NYSE in the Preferred Shares is expected to begin within 30 days following the issuance date of the Preferred Shares .

The Fund's investment objective is to seek a high level of current income, with a secondary objective of capital appreciation. The Fund intends to use the net proceeds from the offering to invest in accordance with its investment objective and policies, for general working capital purposes and/or to pay down outstanding borrowings under its credit facility. The offering is expected to close on or about May 10, 2021, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions.

UBS Securities LLC is acting as the sole book-running manager for the offering.

Investors should consider the Fund's investment objectives, risks, and expenses carefully before investing. The preliminary prospectus supplement (and the final prospectus supplement, when available) and accompanying prospectus contain this and other information about the Fund and should be read carefully before investing. Copies of the preliminary prospectus supplement, final prospectus supplement (when complete) and accompanying prospectus may be obtained for no charge by calling UBS Securities LLC toll-free at 1-888-827-7275. Copies of these documents, when finalized, and other documents the Fund has filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") may also be obtained by visiting EDGAR on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov.

The information in the preliminary prospectus supplement, the accompanying prospectus and this press release is not complete and may be changed. A registration statement relating to these securities has been filed with and declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission. This press release is not an offer to sell these securities and is not soliciting offers to buy these securities in any jurisdiction where the offer or sale is not permitted.

In the United States, Aberdeen Standard Investments is the marketing name for the following affiliated, registered investment advisers: Aberdeen Standard Investments Inc., Aberdeen Asset Managers Ltd., Aberdeen Standard Investments Australia Ltd., Aberdeen Standard Investments (Asia) Ltd., Aberdeen Capital Management, LLC, Aberdeen Standard Investments ETFs Advisors LLC and Aberdeen Standard Alternative Funds Limited.

Closed-end funds are traded on the secondary market through one of the stock exchanges. The Fund's investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that an investor's shares may be worth more or less than the original cost. Shares of closed-end funds may trade above (a premium) or below (a discount) the net asset value of the fund's portfolio. There is no assurance that the Fund will achieve its investment objective.

This press release contains certain statements that may include "forward-looking statements." Forward-looking statements can be identified by the words "may," "will," "intend," "expect," "estimate," "continue," "plan," "anticipate," and similar terms and the negatives of such terms. By their nature, all forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, and actual results could differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements. Many factors that could materially affect the Fund's actual results are the performance of the portfolio of securities held by the Fund, the conditions in the U.S. and international financial and other markets, the price at which Preferred Shares trade in the public markets and other factors discussed in the Fund's preliminary prospectus supplement and accompanying prospectus and to be discussed in the Fund's periodic filings with the SEC.

Although the Fund believes that the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, actual results could differ materially from those expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements. The Fund's future financial condition and results of operations, as well as any forward-looking statements, are subject to change and are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which are made as of the date of this press release. Except for the Fund's ongoing obligations under the federal securities laws, the Fund does not intend, and the Fund undertakes no obligation, to update any forward-looking statement.

NOT FDIC INSURED NO BANK GUARANTEE MAY LOSE VALUE

If you wish to receive this information electronically, please contact [email protected]

aberdeenacp.com

SOURCE Aberdeen Income Credit Strategies Fund
WASHINGTON, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- After more than a decade successfully leading The American Institute of Architects (AIA), EVP/Chief Executive Officer Robert Ivy, FAIA, today announced he will retire at the end of 2021.

Robert Ivy, FAIA

"Robert's leadership and vision have been instrumental in successfully moving the organization forward through challenging times, realigning its values with today's membership, and positioning the organization to address society's most pressing challenges, including climate action and racial and ethnic equity," said AIA 2021 President Peter Exley, FAIA. "He will leave behind a legacy that has enhanced the standing of architects and laid the foundation that is critical to creating a more welcoming and inclusive profession for the future."



Appointed in 2011, Ivy has overseen major changes within the organization: digital transformation across all its platforms; Board of Directors restructuring to encourage nimble debate and decision making; an ongoing public awareness campaign; a reconstituted philanthropic foundation; and a consistent, assertive public voice based on architects' values. Rebounding from the challenging 2008 economy, under his tenure, AIA achieved fiscal stability and growth and reached 95,500 members residing in over 200 chapters and components in the United States and around the world  its highest total membership level since the association's founding more than 160 years ago.

"My overarching goal has been to position the association and this profession of passionate, talented members for the 21st century," said Ivy.

Ivy's charge included leading the AIA through recent, turbulent years in the larger society, a period during which the AIA took strong stands on urgent matters facing contemporary culture, including climate action and racial equity. Ivy was instrumental in the AIA's championing the positive and necessary role architects can play in issues such as sustainability, resilience, school safety, immigration, infrastructure, and shoring up the pipeline for present and future architects by addressing equity, diversity, and inclusion in the profession and society.

With his encouragement, the association diversified its business interests during this period. Consequently, AIA created a Manufacturer's Council, in collaboration with leading building product manufacturers, to improve the communication between designers and manufacturers. Additionally, AIA partnered to develop outside investment in its intellectual property for specification-writing as well as significant, strategic investment in its large design and construction-related contract documents business, ensuring growth and technological development in this legacy enterprise.

A vocal advocate for architects, and an architect himself, he also served as a convener and contributing board member, bringing together allied and related groups to address central questions facing the design and construction industry, both globally and domestically. As an example, a roundtable of leaders in related fields from other associations committed to improving the built environment now encompasses 53 signatory companies focused on resilience.

A former award-winning editor of Architectural Record and corporate leader with McGraw-Hill in New York, Ivy came to Washington having led McGraw-Hill's design and construction media during exponential growth and recognition. A published author, critic, teacher, and lecturer, he has remained active in architectural history and criticism.

The AIA Board of Directors, under Exley, has retained the executive search firm Spencer Stuart with the goal of naming a new EVP/Chief Executive Officer prior to the end of the year. A search committee has also been formed, which will be chaired by AIA 2020 President Jane Frederick, FAIA. Additional information about the search will be forthcoming in the near future.

Contact:

Jessie Cornelius

[email protected]

The American Institute of Architects

1735 New York Avenue NW

Washington, DC 20006

(800) 242 3837

aia.org

SOURCE American Institute of Architects

Related Links

www.aia.org


BELOIT, Wis., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- American Builders & Contractors Supply Co., Inc. ("ABC" or the "Company") announced today the results of its previously-announced cash tender offer (the "Tender Offer") to purchase any and all of the $600 million aggregate principal amount of 5.875% Senior Notes due 2026 (the "2026 Notes"). The terms and conditions of the Tender Offer, which expired at 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on Monday, May 3, 2021 (the "Expiration Time"), are described in the Offer to Purchase, dated April 27, 2021, and the related Notice of Guaranteed Delivery (collectively, the "Tender Offer Documents").

According to information provided by D.F. King & Co., Inc. the information and tender agent for the Tender Offer, $235,898,000 aggregate principal amount of the outstanding Notes (or 39.32%) were validly tendered at or prior to the Expiration Time and not validly withdrawn, which amounts exclude tenders of an additional $2,099,000 aggregate principal amount of outstanding Notes that remain subject to guaranteed delivery procedures.

Subject to the terms and conditions specified in the Tender Offer Documents, the Company will pay all holders of 2026 Notes accepted for purchase in the Tender Offer $1,031.50 per $1,000 principal amount of 2026 Notes validly tendered (including through guaranteed delivery procedures) and accepted for purchase, plus accrued and unpaid interest to, but not including, the settlement date, which is expected to be May 6, 2021.

The Company intends to finance its purchase of the Notes tendered pursuant to the Tender Offer with borrowings under its ABL facility, together with cash on hand.

The Company currently intends to redeem any 2026 Notes not purchased pursuant to the Tender Offer at a redemption price of 102.938% of the principal amount thereof plus accrued and unpaid interest through the redemption date.

The Company has retained BNP Paribas Securities Corp. to act as the dealer manager in connection with the Tender Offer, and has retained D.F. King & Co., Inc. to act as the information and tender agent for the Tender Offer. The Company is making the Tender Offer only by, and pursuant to the terms and conditions of, the Tender Offer Documents. Those documents set forth the complete terms and conditions of the Tender Offer. Copies of those documents may be obtained from the information and tender agent for the Tender Offer, D.F. King & Co., Inc., at (800) 591-8263 (US toll-free) or from the dealer manager, BNP Paribas Securities Corp. at (888) 210-4358 (US toll-free) and (212) 841-3059 (collect) or by visiting www.dfking.com/abcsupply.

This press release is for informational purposes only and shall not constitute, or be deemed to constitute, a notice of redemption of the 2026 Notes under the indenture governing the 2026 Notes. This press release is neither an offer to purchase or an offer to sell, nor a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell, any securities, nor is it a solicitation for acceptance of the Tender Offer.

The Company

ABC is the largest wholesale distributor of roofing in the United States and one of the nation's largest wholesale distributors of select exterior and interior building products. Since its founding by Ken and Diane Hendricks in 1982, ABC's sole focus has been serving professional contractorstaking care of them better than any other distributor and offering the products, services and support they need to build their businesses. A 15-time Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award winner, ABC is an "employee-first" company that treats its associates with respect and gives them the tools they need to succeed. Headquartered in Beloit, Wisconsin, ABC has over 800 locations nationwide.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this press release may constitute "forward-looking" statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the "PSLRA"), as may be amended from time to time. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors that could cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company and its subsidiaries, or industry results, to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Statements that are not historical fact are forward-looking statements. These cautionary statements are being made pursuant to the PSLRA with the intention of obtaining the benefits of the "safe harbor" provisions of such law. ABC cautions investors that any forward-looking statements made by ABC are not guarantees or indicative of future events.

Factors that could affect actual results include but are not limited to the possibility that the Company's existing noteholders will not be receptive to the Tender Offer or the Company's potential debt investors will not be receptive to the Debt Offering on the terms described above or at all; corporate developments that could preclude, impair or delay the above-described transactions due to restrictions under the federal securities laws; changes in the credit ratings of the Company; changes in the Company's cash requirements, financial position, financing plans or investment plans; or changes in general market, economic, tax, regulatory or industry conditions that impact the ability or willingness of the Company to consummate the above-described transactions on the terms described above or at all. There can be no assurances that the above-described transactions will be consummated on the terms described above or at all.

Although ABC believes that its plans, intentions and expectations reflected in this press release are reasonable, actual events could differ materially. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made only as of the date hereof and ABC does not have or undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, subsequent events or otherwise, unless otherwise required by law.

SOURCE American Builders & Contractors Supply Co., Inc.
( ) CEO Michael Capocchi the satellite manufacturer has signed a retail partnership agreement for its ZOLEO Global Satellite Communicator product with Australia Post Group.

Capocchi says Australia Post Group, who he says is one of the nations largest retailers with over 4,000 outlets, is an ideal partner, and will sell the device across its stores and through their website.
Enterprises will go through the Response, Recovery, and Renew phases.

Download a Free Sample Report Including COVID-19 Impact Analysis

The air charter services market will witness a negative impact during the forecast period owing to the widespread growth of the COVID-19 pandemic. As per Technavio's pandemic-focused market research, market growth is likely to increase in 2021 as compared to 2020.

With the continuing spread of the novel coronavirus pandemic, organizations across the globe are gradually flattening their recessionary curve by leveraging technology. Many businesses will go through response, recovery, and renewal phases. Building business resilience and enabling agility will aid organizations to move forward in their journey out of the COVID-19 crisis towards the Next Normal.

This post-pandemic business planning research will aid clients to:

Adjust their strategic planning to move ahead once business stability kicks in.

to move ahead once business stability kicks in. Build Resilience by making effective resource and investment choices for individual business units, products, and service lines.

making effective resource and investment choices for individual business units, products, and service lines. Conceptualize scenario-based planning to mitigate future crisis situations.

Download the Post-Pandemic Business Planning Structure

Key Considerations for Market Forecast:

Impact of lockdowns, supply chain disruptions, demand destruction, and change in customer behavior

Optimistic, probable, and pessimistic scenarios for all markets as the impact of pandemic unfolds

Pre- as well as post-COVID-19 market estimates

Quarterly impact analysis and updates on market estimates

Related Report on Industrials Inclu Download the Exclusive Free Sample Report de :

Global Helicopter-based Transportation Market - Global helicopter-based transportation market is segmented by end-user (energy industry, MCL, and others), geography (North America, Europe, APAC, MEA, and South America).

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Global Air Cargo Market - Global air cargo market is segmented by end-user (manufacturing, FMCG and retail, pharmaceuticals and chemicals, and other industries) and geography (APAC, North America, Europe, MEA, and South America).

Download the Exclusive Free Sample Report

Major Three Air Charter Services Market Participants:

Air Charter Service Group Ltd.

The company provides helicopter, private jet, and executive airliner charter flights as well as a vast range of small specialist aircraft. Also, the company offers medical evacuation flights for sick and injured patients.

Air Partner Plc

The company offers a range of aircraft charter options, ranging from a one-off aircraft charter to a long-term flight program, or an all-economy airliner to a VIP configured aircraft.

Asia Jet Partners Ltd.

The company provides private jet charter services through the CHARTER business segment.

If you purchase a report that is updated in the next 60 days, we will send you the new edition and data extract FREE! Get the report snapshot here to get a detailed market share analysis of market participants during COVID-19 lockdown:

https://www.technavio.com/report/air-charter-services-market-industry-analysis

Air Charter Services Market 2021-2025: Segmentation

Air charter services market is segmented as below:

Application

Charter Passenger



Charter Freight



Others

Geography

North America



Europe



APAC



South America



MEA

The air charter services market is driven by the increasing demand for cargo charter. In addition, the shift toward aircraft renting is expected to trigger the air charter services market toward witnessing a CAGR of about 5% during the forecast period.

Get more insights about the global trends impacting the future of the air charter services market, Request Free Sample @ https://www.technavio.com/talk-to-us?report=IRTNTR40516

Market Drivers

Market Challenges

Market Trends

Vendor Landscape

Vendors covered

Vendor classification

Market positioning of vendors

Competitive scenario

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.

Contact

Technavio Research

Jesse Maida

Media & Marketing Executive

US: +1 844 364 1100

UK: +44 203 893 3200

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.technavio.com/

Report: www.technavio.com/report/air-charter-services-market-industry-analysis

SOURCE Technavio
PHILADELPHIA, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Attorney Kenneth J. Grunfeld of Golomb & Honik, P.C. in Philadelphia has been appointed as a Hearing Committee Member serving the Disciplinary Board of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania. The three-year term for this role will begin on July 1st, 2021. Depending on his service, the Disciplinary Board can elect to appoint Attorney Grunfeld for a second three-year term to begin immediately after the first expires.

As an appointed Hearing Committee Member, Attorney Grunfeld will help the Disciplinary Board reach agreeable resolutions for disciplinary matters faced by practicing legal professionals throughout Pennsylvania. The Disciplinary Board is known for its prompt responses and resolutions, so Attorney Grunfeld's similar dedication to timeliness and punctuality should serve him well in this role. Furthermore, Attorney Kenneth Grunfeld's background as both a former civil defense attorney and a current plaintiff's attorney will allow him to better understand discrepancies and conflicts that might play a part in some of the disciplinary matters brought to the Board's attention.

To learn more about the Disciplinary Board of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania, inquiring parties can visit https://www.padisciplinaryboard.org/. More information about Attorney Kenneth Grunfeld of Golomb & Honik, P.C. can be found at https://www.golombhonik.com/.

SOURCE Golomb & Honik, P.C.

Related Links

https://www.golombhonik.com


Cherry on Top Conditioner joins the company's colorful line of mixable USA-made children's bathing products featuring seven fruit-forward scented shampoos, bubble baths, and body washes (Coconut, Blueberry, Strawberry, Tangerine, Lemon, Honeydew Melon and Vanilla). All products feature the company's SmartScent technology, which minimizes children's exposure to known allergens through expertly-designed scents formulated to the strictest EU (European Union) standards.

"Our customers have been begging for a conditioner since we launched Dabble & Dollop a little over a year and a half ago, our goal was to create a product that worked well and smelled great, and included the highest quality USA-sourced ingredients," commented Founder & CEO, Stephanie Leshney. "We can't wait for our customers to mix and match Cherry on Top with our seven other fruity scents!"

The conditioner is sold as a standalone product, in bundles, and as part of the company's monthly Tub Club subscription service. During launch, all orders including Cherry on Top will include a complimentary Dabble & Dollop custom sticker sheet featuring all the fruit "characters" from its mixable bath series. For more information please visit: DabbleandDollop.com

About Dabble and Dollop

Founded by a mother of three and a long-tenured cosmetic and personal care ingredient expert, Stephanie Leshney, Dabble & Dollop is a children's bath and body care brand focused on children ages 2-12. Known for its innovations in product mixability, the brand focuses on natural scents and its SmartScent technology to inspire creativity and drive memorable experiences for children and parents alike. All 3-in-1 products are formulated with fewer than ten ingredients and were hand-selected and sourced in the USA by Leshney. Find Dabble & Dollop online at www.dabbleanddollop.com, as part of the coveted bath & body collection at www.maisonette.com and the new kids curation at www.anthropologie.com. Select products are available in larger bundles on www.amazon.com. Connect with Dabble & Dollop on social channels @dabbleanddollop (Facebook/Instagram/Pinterest).

While the magic is in the mixing, the company also aims to find magic in other places, especially in school communities. Throughout the developmental stages of Dabble & Dollop, Leshney realized the company could also act as a platform for inspiring creativity and a love of science in children. Presently, Dabble & Dollop and its team plans to offer custom-tailored programs to K-12 schools to help children learn about ingredient science, while also supporting other STEAM nonprofits focused on fostering future scientists. For more information on Dabble & Dollop's community initiatives, please email Head of PR, Kristen Bendele, [email protected]

SOURCE Dabble and Dollop

Related Links

http://www.DabbleandDollop.com


NEW YORK, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- BLACK ENTERPRISE will present its first Small Business Summit, hosted by May 6, as the latest in the company's series of Diversity Equity & Inclusion Summits. The Small Business Summit is designed to energize an entrepreneurial movement emerging from the demand for equity triggered by the "twin pandemics" of COVID-19 and racial injustice brought to the forefront of global awareness by the murder of George Floyd.

Small Business Summit attendees will learn from game-changing business leaders, transformative entrepreneurs, and industry innovators, how to seize once unreachable opportunities in this new and rapidly evolving business environment. Aspiring entrepreneurs and startup founders can gain the tools to transform the next big idea into a profitable venture. Seasoned veterans can reimagine their enterprises and infuse it with the technology necessary for advancement and sustainability. Plus, attendees will hear from officials of the Biden administration, who will provide key information, their take on the latest policies and trends, and the opportunities they represent.

"The current push for economic equity, including significant pledges from corporate America to invest in and do business with Black-owned companies, represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity for Black entrepreneurs," says BLACK ENTERPRISE CEO Earl "Butch" Graves Jr. "In order to close the racial wealth gap in America, we must be prepared to position ourselves to execute on those opportunities, even as we hold larger corporations accountable for living up to their commitment to doing more business with us."

Confirmed speakers for the Black Enterprise Small Business Summit include, IMB Partners, CEO, Tarrus L. Richardson, Assistant Administrator, Office of Women's Business Ownership, Natalie Madeira Cofield; SmartHustle.com, Founder & CEO, Ramon Ray; Wells Fargo Executive VP & Head of Consumer & Small Business Banking  Diverse Customer Segments, David Miree; Wells Fargo, Business Acquisition Manager, Alima Hawthorne; Bank of America, Senior Vice President, Atlantic-South Region Business Banking Executive, Derek Ellington; The 15 Percent Pledge, Executive Director, LaToya Williams-Belfort; Black Girls Do: Celebrating Black Women In Action, Entrepreneur, Creator, Leah Johnson; Mented Cosmetics, Founder & COO, Amanda E. Johnson; 27th Administrator of U.S. Small Business Administration, Isabella Casillas Guzman; Merck, Director of Economic Inclusion & Supplier Diversity, Raul Suarez-Rodriquez; Mobility Capital Finance Inc., President & CEO, Wole Coaxum; SoLa Impact Fund, Founder & CEO, Martin Muoto; Retired Harvard Business School Professor and author, A Letter to My White Friends and Colleagues: What You can Do Right Now to Help the Black Community, Steven S. Rogers; Founders First Capital Partners, Founder, Chairperson and CEO, , Kim Folsom and Play One Up Ltd, Founder & CEO, Brandon Pitts.

Attendees of the Black Enterprise Small Business Summit will gain insights on:

Meeting financial needs at every stage of a business

How to benefit from the Biden-Harris Rescue Plan

Building profitable partnerships as a diverse supplier to corporations

Using technology to drive business growth

Winning strategies for women entrepreneurs

and more

Sponsors of the Small Business Summit include Bank of America, Wells Fargo and Merck.

The Black Enterprise Small Business Summit takes place from 12:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. EST on Thursday, May 6, 2021. For a complimentary registration and more information about sessions and speakers, visit smallbusiness.blackenterprise.com.

BLACK ENTERPRISE, your ultimate source to build Wealth for Life, is the premier business, investing, and wealth-building resource for African Americans. Since 1970, BE has provided essential business information and advice to professionals, corporate executives, entrepreneurs, and decision makers, on entrepreneurship, careers, and financial management and related topics. A multimedia, digital-first company, BE also produces video and podcast programming, business and lifestyle events, Web content, apps, and other digital media. Visit www.blackenterprise.com for more information.

SOURCE BLACK ENTERPRISE

Related Links

http://www.blackenterprise.com


NEW YORK, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Brixmor Property Group Inc. (NYSE: BRX) ("Brixmor" or the "Company") announced today its operating results for the three months ended March 31, 2021. For the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, net income was $0.18 per diluted share and $0.20 per diluted share, respectively.

Key highlights for the three months ended March 31, 2021 include:

Continued improvement in rent collections, with 94.2% of billed based rent for the three months ended March 31, 2021 collected (as of April 27, 2021 )

collected (as of ) Including rent deferral and abatement agreements, total addressed billed base rent was 95.9% for the three months ended March 31, 2021 (as of April 27, 2021 )

(as of )

Approximately 98% of the Company's annualized base rent ("ABR") is open and operating



See COVID-19 update below for additional information on rent collection levels

Executed 1.4 million square feet of new and renewal leases, with rent spreads on comparable space of 7.0%, including 0.7 million square feet of new leases, with rent spreads on comparable space of 20.3%

Realized total leased occupancy of 90.8%, anchor leased occupancy of 93.8% and small shop leased occupancy of 84.2%

Leased to billed occupancy spread of 300 basis points, representing $40.4 million of annualized base rent not yet commenced

of annualized base rent not yet commenced Reported a decrease in same property NOI of 1.5%

Reported NAREIT FFO of $130.5 million , or $0.44 per diluted share, reflecting $4.3 million of revenues deemed uncollectible and a $1.6 million reversal of straight-line rental income, net primarily related to COVID-19

, or per diluted share, reflecting of revenues deemed uncollectible and a reversal of straight-line rental income, net primarily related to COVID-19 NAREIT FFO included items that impact FFO comparability, including litigation and other non-routine legal expenses, a loss on extinguishment of debt, net and transaction expenses of ($3.1) million , or ($0.01) per diluted share

, or per diluted share Stabilized $28.4 million of reinvestment projects at an average incremental NOI yield of 11%, with the in process reinvestment pipeline now totaling $409.2 million at an expected average incremental NOI yield of 9%

of reinvestment projects at an average incremental NOI yield of 11%, with the in process reinvestment pipeline now totaling at an expected average incremental NOI yield of 9% Completed $33.2 million of dispositions and $3.6 million of acquisitions

of dispositions and of acquisitions Issued $350.0 million of Senior Notes due 2028 and repaid a $350.0 million term loan scheduled to mature December 12, 2023

Subsequent events include:

Acquired The Center of Bonita Springs , in the Cape Coral- Fort Myers, Florida MSA, for $48.5 million

, in the Cape Coral- MSA, for Updated previously provided NAREIT FFO per diluted share expectations for 2021 to $1.60  1.70 from $1.56  1.70 and same property NOI growth expectations for 2021 to 1.0  3.0% from (1.0)  3.0%

"Our balanced business plan and portfolio of well-located shopping centers have not only outperformed through the pandemic, but they position us to continue to outperform through the recovery given our accelerating leasing productivity, our significant signed but not commenced pipeline, our stabilizing reinvestments at highly accretive returns, and our ongoing opportunity to drive both rate and occupancy," commented James Taylor, Chief Executive Officer and President.

COVID-19 UPDATE

A summary of trends in billed base rent collected, rent deferrals and abatements and total addressed billed base rent follows:

(as of April 27, 2021)

Percent of 2Q20

Billed Base Rent

Collected Percent of 3Q20

Billed Base Rent

Collected Percent of 4Q20

Billed Base Rent

Collected Percent of 1Q21

Billed Base Rent

Collected Essential tenants

99.3% 99.2% 99.4% 99.1% Hybrid tenants

88.3% 90.9% 92.2% 92.7% Other retail / services

78.3% 86.1% 89.8% 91.1% Total

87.9% 91.7% 93.7% 94.2% Rent deferrals and abatements

7.4% 4.3% 2.8% 1.7% Total addressed billed base rent

95.3% 96.0% 96.5% 95.9%

Collected 94.2% of billed base rent for April 2021 and entered into rent deferral and abatement agreements representing 0.8% of billed base rent, resulting in total addressed billed base rent of 95.0% for April (as of April 27, 2021 )

and entered into rent deferral and abatement agreements representing 0.8% of billed base rent, resulting in total addressed billed base rent of 95.0% for April (as of ) Net reserves associated with base rent during the three months ended March 31, 2021 represented 85.6% of accrued but uncollected base rent, comprised of net reserves representing 78.2% of rent deferrals (not lease modifications) and 87.0% of accrued but uncollected and unaddressed (under negotiation) base rent

represented 85.6% of accrued but uncollected base rent, comprised of net reserves representing 78.2% of rent deferrals (not lease modifications) and 87.0% of accrued but uncollected and unaddressed (under negotiation) base rent Net reserves associated with base rent during the nine months ended December 31, 2020 represented 82.6% of accrued but uncollected base rent, comprised of net reserves representing 66.0% of rent deferrals (not lease modifications) and 97.1% of accrued but uncollected and unaddressed (under negotiation) base rent

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

Net Income

For the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, net income was $52.4 million , or $0.18 per diluted share, and $59.8 million , or $0.20 per diluted share, respectively.

NAREIT FFO

For the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, NAREIT FFO was $130.5 million , or $0.44 per diluted share, and $137.5 million , or $0.46 per diluted share, respectively. Results for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 include items that impact FFO comparability, including litigation and other non-routine legal expenses, a loss on extinguishment of debt, net and transaction expenses of ($3.1) million , or ($0.01) per diluted share, and ($0.5) million , or ($0.00) per diluted share, respectively.

Same Property NOI Performance

For the three months ended March 31, 2021 , the Company reported a decrease in same property NOI of 1.5% versus the comparable 2020 period.

Dividend

The Company's Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.215 per common share (equivalent to $0.860 per annum) for the second quarter of 2021.

per common share (equivalent to per annum) for the second quarter of 2021. The dividend is payable on July 15, 2021 to stockholders of record on July 6, 2021 , representing an ex-dividend date of July 2, 2021 .

PORTFOLIO AND INVESTMENT ACTIVITY

Value Enhancing Reinvestment Opportunities

During the three months ended March 31, 2021 , the Company stabilized 11 value enhancing reinvestment projects with a total aggregate net cost of approximately $28.4 million at an average incremental NOI yield of 11% and added seven new reinvestment projects to its in process pipeline. Projects added include three anchor space repositioning projects, three outparcel development projects and one redevelopment project, with a total aggregate net estimated cost of approximately $34.3 million at an expected average incremental NOI yield of 7%.

, the Company stabilized 11 value enhancing reinvestment projects with a total aggregate net cost of approximately at an average incremental NOI yield of 11% and added seven new reinvestment projects to its in process pipeline. Projects added include three anchor space repositioning projects, three outparcel development projects and one redevelopment project, with a total aggregate net estimated cost of approximately at an expected average incremental NOI yield of 7%. At March 31, 2021 , the value enhancing reinvestment in process pipeline was comprised of 57 projects with an aggregate net estimated cost of approximately $409.2 million at an expected average incremental NOI yield of 9%. The in process pipeline includes 20 anchor space repositioning projects with an aggregate net estimated cost of approximately $98.9 million at an expected incremental NOI yield of 9 to 14%; 16 outparcel development projects with an aggregate net estimated cost of approximately $29.5 million at an expected average incremental NOI yield of 11%; and 21 redevelopment projects with an aggregate net estimated cost of approximately $280.8 million at an expected average incremental NOI yield of 9%.

, the value enhancing reinvestment in process pipeline was comprised of 57 projects with an aggregate net estimated cost of approximately at an expected average incremental NOI yield of 9%. The in process pipeline includes 20 anchor space repositioning projects with an aggregate net estimated cost of approximately at an expected incremental NOI yield of 9 to 14%; 16 outparcel development projects with an aggregate net estimated cost of approximately at an expected average incremental NOI yield of 11%; and 21 redevelopment projects with an aggregate net estimated cost of approximately at an expected average incremental NOI yield of 9%. Due to COVID-19, there is inherent uncertainty as it relates to the Company's reinvestment projects, specifically with respect to expected project scopes, expected stabilization dates and expected NOI yields.

Acquisitions

During the three months ended March 31, 2021 , the Company acquired an outparcel adjacent to an existing center and land associated with an existing center and terminated a ground lease and acquired the associated land parcel at an existing center for a combined purchase price of $3.6 million .

, the Company acquired an outparcel adjacent to an existing center and land associated with an existing center and terminated a ground lease and acquired the associated land parcel at an existing center for a combined purchase price of . Subsequent to March 31, 2021 , the Company acquired The Center of Bonita Springs , a 281,000 square foot community shopping center located in the high-income market of Bonita Springs, Florida (Cape Coral- Fort Myers, Florida MSA), for $48.5 million . The Center of Bonita Springs is anchored by a highly-productive Publix and Bealls Outlet|Home Centric and has significant near-term value creation opportunity. The property complements the Company's four other assets in Southwest Florida , three of which have recently been or currently are in redevelopment, and is ten miles from its 99% leased Park Shore Plaza in Naples, Florida .

Dispositions

During the three months ended March 31, 2021 , the Company generated approximately $33.2 million of gross proceeds on the disposition of four shopping centers, as well as four partial properties, comprised of 0.6 million square feet of gross leasable area.

CAPITAL STRUCTURE

As previously announced, during the three months ended March 31, 2021 , the Company's Operating Partnership, Brixmor Operating Partnership LP, issued $350.0 million aggregate principal amount of 2.250% Senior Notes due 2028. The net proceeds from the offering were utilized to repay the Company's $350.0 million term loan scheduled to mature December 12, 2023 .

, the Company's Operating Partnership, Brixmor Operating Partnership LP, issued aggregate principal amount of 2.250% Senior Notes due 2028. The net proceeds from the offering were utilized to repay the Company's term loan scheduled to mature . At March 31, 2021 , the Company had $1.6 billion of total liquidity, comprised of $372.7 million of cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash and $1.2 billion of availability under its Revolving Credit Facility. The Company has no debt maturities in 2021 and only $250.0 million of debt maturities in 2022.

GUIDANCE

The Company has updated its previously provided NAREIT FFO per diluted share expectations for 2021 to $1.60  1.70 from $1.56  1.70 and its same property NOI growth expectations for 2021 to 1.0  3.0% from (1.0)  3.0%.

 1.70 from  1.70 and its same property NOI growth expectations for 2021 to 1.0  3.0% from (1.0)  3.0%. With respect to future periods, the Company's updated guidance:

Reflects anticipated transaction activity



Does not contemplate any tenants moving to or from a cash basis of accounting, either of which may result in significant volatility in straight-line rental income



Does not include any additional items that impact FFO comparability, including litigation and other non-routine legal expenses, loss on debt extinguishment, net and transaction expenses, or any one-time items

The following table provides a reconciliation of the range of the Company's 2021 estimated net income attributable to common stockholders to NAREIT FFO:

(Unaudited, dollars in millions, except per share amounts)

2021E

2021E Per

Diluted Share Net income attributable to common stockholders

$162 - $192

$0.55 - $0.65 Depreciation and amortization

319

1.07 Impairment of real estate assets

1

0.00 Gain on sale of real estate assets

(6)

(0.02) NAREIT FFO

$476 - $506

$1.60 - $1.70

CONNECT WITH BRIXMOR

For additional information, please visit www.brixmor.com;

Follow Brixmor on:

Twitter at https://twitter.com/Brixmor



Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Brixmor



Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/brixmorpropertygroup



YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/user/Brixmor; and

Find Brixmor on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/brixmor.

CONFERENCE CALL AND SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION

The Company will host a teleconference on Tuesday, May 4, 2021 at 10:00 AM ET. To participate, please dial 877.705.6003 (domestic) or 201.493.6725 (international) within 15 minutes of the scheduled start of the call. The teleconference can also be accessed via a live webcast at www.brixmor.com in the Investors section. A replay of the teleconference will be available through midnight ET on May 18, 2021 by dialing 844.512.2921 (domestic) or 412.317.6671 (international) (Passcode: 13717945) or via the web through May 4, 2022 at www.brixmor.com in the Investors section.

The Company's Supplemental Disclosure will be posted at www.brixmor.com in the Investors section. These materials are also available to all interested parties upon request to the Company at [email protected] or 800.468.7526.

NON-GAAP PERFORMANCE MEASURES

The Company presents the non-GAAP performance measures set forth below. These measures should not be considered as alternatives to, or more meaningful than, net income (calculated in accordance with GAAP) or other GAAP financial measures, as an indicator of financial performance and are not alternatives to, or more meaningful than, cash flow from operating activities (calculated in accordance with GAAP) as a measure of liquidity. Non-GAAP performance measures have limitations as they do not include all items of income and expense that affect operations, and accordingly, should always be considered as supplemental financial results to those calculated in accordance with GAAP. The Company's computation of these non-GAAP performance measures may differ in certain respects from the methodology utilized by other REITs and, therefore, may not be comparable to similarly titled measures presented by such other REITs. Investors are cautioned that items excluded from these non-GAAP performance measures are relevant to understanding and addressing financial performance. A reconciliation of these non-GAAP performance measures to net income is presented in the attached table.

NAREIT FFO

NAREIT FFO is a supplemental, non-GAAP performance measure utilized to evaluate the operating and financial performance of real estate companies. The National Association of Real Estate Investment Trusts ("NAREIT") defines FFO as net income (loss), calculated in accordance with GAAP, excluding (i) depreciation and amortization related to real estate, (ii) gains and losses from the sale of certain real estate assets, (iii) gains and losses from change in control, (iv) impairment write-downs of certain real estate assets and investments in entities when the impairment is directly attributable to decreases in the value of depreciable real estate held by the entity and (v) after adjustments for unconsolidated joint ventures calculated to reflect FFO on the same basis. Considering the nature of its business as a real estate owner and operator, the Company believes that NAREIT FFO is useful to investors in measuring its operating and financial performance because the definition excludes items included in net income that do not relate to or are not indicative of the Company's operating and financial performance, such as depreciation and amortization related to real estate, and items which can make periodic and peer analyses of operating and financial performance more difficult, such as gains and losses from the sale of certain real estate assets and impairment write-downs of certain real estate assets.

Same Property NOI

Same property NOI is a supplemental, non-GAAP performance measure utilized to evaluate the operating performance of real estate companies. Same property NOI is calculated (using properties owned for the entirety of both periods and excluding properties under development and completed new development properties which have been stabilized for less than one year) as total property revenues (base rent, expense reimbursements, adjustments for revenues deemed uncollectible, ancillary and other rental income, percentage rents and other revenues) less direct property operating expenses (operating costs and real estate taxes). Same property NOI excludes (i) corporate level expenses (including general and administrative), (ii) lease termination fees, (iii) straight-line rental income, net, (iv) accretion of below-market leases, net of amortization of above-market leases and tenant inducements, (v) straight-line ground rent expense, and (vi) income / expense associated with the Company's captive insurance company. Considering the nature of its business as a real estate owner and operator, the Company believes that same property NOI is useful to investors in measuring the operating performance of its property portfolio because the definition excludes various items included in net income that do not relate to, or are not indicative of, the operating performance of the Company's properties, such as depreciation and amortization and corporate level expenses (including general and administrative), and because it eliminates disparities in NOI due to the acquisition or disposition of properties or the stabilization of completed new development properties during the period presented and therefore provides a more consistent metric for comparing the operating performance of the Company's real estate between periods.

ABOUT BRIXMOR PROPERTY GROUP

Brixmor (NYSE: BRX) is a real estate investment trust (REIT) that owns and operates a high-quality, national portfolio of open-air shopping centers. Its 389 retail centers comprise approximately 68 million square feet of prime retail space in established trade areas. The Company strives to own and operate shopping centers that reflect Brixmor's vision "to be the center of the communities we serve" and are home to a diverse mix of thriving national, regional and local retailers. Brixmor is a proud real estate partner to approximately 5,000 retailers including The TJX Companies, The Kroger Co., Publix Super Markets and Ross Stores.

Brixmor announces material information to its investors in SEC filings and press releases and on public conference calls, webcasts and the "Investors" page of its website at www.brixmor.com. The Company also uses social media to communicate with its investors and the public, and the information Brixmor posts on social media may be deemed material information. Therefore, Brixmor encourages investors and others interested in the Company to review the information that it posts on its website and on its social media channels.

SAFE HARBOR LANGUAGE

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. These statements include, but are not limited to, statements related to the Company's expectations regarding the performance of its business, its financial results, its liquidity and capital resources and other non-historical statements. You can identify these forward-looking statements by the use of words such as "outlook," "believes," "expects," "potential," "continues," "may," "will," "should," "seeks," "projects," "predicts," "intends," "plans," "estimates," "anticipates" or the negative version of these words or other comparable words. Such forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties, including those described under the sections entitled "Forward-Looking Statements" and "Risk Factors" in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020 and the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2021, as such factors may be updated from time to time in our periodic filings with the SEC, which are accessible on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov. Currently, one of the most significant factors that could cause actual outcomes or results to differ materially from forward-looking statements is the adverse effect of the current pandemic of the novel coronavirus, or COVID-19, on the financial condition, operating results and cash flows of the Company, the Company's tenants, the real estate market, the financial markets and the global economy. The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the Company and its tenants significantly, and the extent to which it continues to impact the Company and its tenants will depend on future developments, which are highly uncertain and cannot be predicted with confidence, including the scope, severity and duration of the pandemic, the speed and effectiveness of vaccine and treatment developments and their deployment, public adoption rates of COVID-19 vaccines, potential mutations of COVID-19, including SARS-CoV-2 and the response thereto, the direct and indirect economic effects of the pandemic and containment measures, and potential sustained changes in consumer behavior, among others. Accordingly, there are or will be important factors that could cause actual outcomes or results to differ materially from those indicated in these statements. These factors should not be construed as exhaustive and should be read in conjunction with the other cautionary statements that are included in this release and in the Company's filings with the SEC. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or review any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as required by law.

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

Unaudited, dollars in thousands, except share information









As of

As of







3/31/21

12/31/20 Assets









Real estate









Land $ 1,737,338

$ 1,740,263



Buildings and tenant improvements 7,760,203

7,714,105



Construction in progress 125,837

142,745



Lease intangibles 557,470

566,448







10,180,848

10,163,561



Accumulated depreciation and amortization (2,706,805)

(2,659,448)

Real estate, net 7,474,043

7,504,113

Cash and cash equivalents 371,402

368,675

Restricted cash 1,282

1,412

Marketable securities 18,737

19,548

Receivables, net 231,461

240,323

Deferred charges and prepaid expenses, net 136,251

139,260

Real estate assets held for sale 12,389

18,014

Other assets 49,521

50,802 Total assets $ 8,295,086

$ 8,342,147













Liabilities







Debt obligations, net $ 5,165,861

$ 5,167,330

Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities 458,022

494,116 Total liabilities 5,623,883

5,661,446













Equity









Common stock, $0.01 par value; authorized 3,000,000,000 shares;









306,073,386 and 305,621,403 shares issued and 296,946,394 and 296,494,411









shares outstanding 2,969

2,965

Additional paid-in capital 3,211,665

3,213,990

Accumulated other comprehensive loss (22,486)

(28,058)

Distributions in excess of net income (520,945)

(508,196) Total equity 2,671,203

2,680,701 Total liabilities and equity $ 8,295,086

$ 8,342,147

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

Unaudited, dollars in thousands, except per share amounts









Three Months Ended







3/31/21

3/31/20 Revenues







Rental income $ 276,461

$ 280,402

Other revenues 3,285

1,899 Total revenues 279,746

282,301













Operating expenses







Operating costs 31,385

30,356

Real estate taxes 42,888

42,864

Depreciation and amortization 83,420

83,017

Impairment of real estate assets 1,467

4,598

General and administrative 24,645

22,597 Total operating expenses 183,805

183,432













Other income (expense)







Dividends and interest 87

124

Interest expense (48,994)

(47,354)

Gain on sale of real estate assets 5,764

8,905

Loss on extinguishment of debt, net (1,197)

(5)

Other 770

(758) Total other expense (43,570)

(39,088)













Net income $ 52,371

$ 59,781













Net income per common share:











Basic



$ 0.18

$ 0.20

Diluted



$ 0.18

$ 0.20 Weighted average shares:











Basic



297,110

297,841

Diluted



297,846

298,264

FUNDS FROM OPERATIONS (FFO)

Unaudited, dollars in thousands, except per share amounts









Three Months Ended







3/31/21

3/31/20













Net income $ 52,371

$ 59,781

Depreciation and amortization related to real estate 82,455

82,020

Gain on sale of real estate assets (5,764)

(8,905)

Impairment of real estate assets 1,467

4,598 NAREIT FFO $ 130,529

$ 137,494













NAREIT FFO per diluted share $ 0.44

$ 0.46 Weighted average diluted shares outstanding 297,846

298,264













Items that impact FFO comparability







Litigation and other non-routine legal expenses $ (1,831)

$ (522)

Loss on extinguishment of debt, net (1,197)

(5)

Transaction expenses (32)

(12) Total items that impact FFO comparability $ (3,060)

$ (539) Items that impact FFO comparability, net per share $ (0.01)

$ (0.00)













Additional Disclosures







Straight-line rental income, net (1) $ 2,272

$ (2,137)

Accretion of below-market leases, net of amortization of above-market leases and tenant inducements 984

3,371

Straight-line ground rent expense (2) (46)

(35)













Dividends declared per share $ 0.215

$ 0.285 Dividends declared $ 63,843

$ 84,488 Dividend payout ratio (as % of NAREIT FFO) 48.9%

61.4%





(1) Includes straight-line rental income reversals of $1.6 million and $7.9 million for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. (2) Straight-line ground rent expense is included in Operating costs on the Consolidated Statements of Operations.

SAME PROPERTY NOI ANALYSIS

Unaudited, dollars in thousands











Three Months Ended













3/31/21

3/31/20

Change Same Property NOI Analysis











Number of properties

380

380

- Percent billed

87.9%

89.4%

(1.5%) Percent leased

90.9%

92.6%

(1.7%)



















Revenues











Base rent

$ 201,279

$ 205,397



Expense reimbursements

62,514

62,911



Revenues deemed uncollectible

(4,330)

(5,929)



Ancillary and other rental income / Other revenues

7,554

5,919



Percentage rents

2,291

1,831













269,308

270,129

(0.3%) Operating expenses











Operating costs

(30,563)

(29,036)



Real estate taxes

(41,918)

(41,325)













(72,481)

(70,361)

3.0% Same property NOI

$ 196,827

$ 199,768

(1.5%)



















NOI margin







73.1%

74.0%



Expense recovery ratio







86.2%

89.4%







Percent Contribution to Same Property NOI Performance:























Change

Percent

Contribution





Base rent - excluding COVID-19 rent deferrals (lease modifications) and rent abatements

$ (1,831)

(0.9%)





Base rent - COVID-19 rent deferrals (lease modifications) and rent abatements

(2,287)

(1.2%)





Revenues deemed uncollectible

1,599

0.8%





Net recoveries

(2,517)

(1.2%)





Ancillary and other rental income / Other revenues

1,635

0.8%





Percentage rents

460

0.2%



















(1.5%)





Reconciliation of Net Income to Same Property NOI







Same property NOI

$ 196,827

$ 199,768 Adjustments:







Non-same property NOI

4,052

6,726 Lease termination fees

1,384

1,388 Straight-line rental income, net

2,272

(2,137) Accretion of below-market leases, net of amortization of above-market leases and tenant inducements

984

3,371 Straight-line ground rent expense

(46)

(35) Depreciation and amortization

(83,420)

(83,017) Impairment of real estate assets

(1,467)

(4,598) General and administrative

(24,645)

(22,597) Total other expense

(43,570)

(39,088) Net income

$ 52,371

$ 59,781

SOURCE Brixmor Property Group Inc.

Related Links

http://www.brixmor.com


CHARLESTON, S.C., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Care at Heart has partnered with Axxess, the leading technology innovator for healthcare at home, to continue providing the highest-quality care to individuals and their loved ones living with advanced illnesses.

Axxess has recently finalized and launched one of the industry's first palliative care software platformsan electronic medical record specialized not only for palliative care itself, but also for the physicians, nurse practitioners, and other care team members who use it. The palliative care platform was conceptualized and built in collaboration with providers across Care at Heart's service lines, but especially palliative care physicians from Palliative Care at Heart.

Dr. Sonali Wilborn, MD, MBA, HMDC, Chief Medical Officer for Care at Heart, said: "It truly has been a pleasure to work with Axxess. Their commitment to innovation allowed us to create one of the first ever palliative care technology platforms and empowered us as providers to execute our vision from our perspective. They continue to be extremely responsive with any ongoing changes that might improve the provider experience."

The Palliative Care at Heart process is fully integrated onto the new platform. Both organizations have a vision of transforming the delivery of palliative care services and leveraging technology to empower all stakeholders to deliver exceptional care while putting patients and their loved ones first at all times.

The transition has been seamless, and providers have found the tool to be efficient and user-friendly.

Effective technological innovations like these free up physicians from antiquated charting processes and allow them to easily document and access their notes, creating more time for direct patient care and face-to-face interaction.

Carla Davis, Chief Executive Officer for Care at Heart, said: "Our partnership with Axxess supports us in continuing to fulfill our vision. I am humbled to work alongside John Olajide and his leadership team to craft provider-friendly technology that enables the best possible care for our patients and their loved ones."

John Olajide, Founder and Chief Executive Officer and founder of Axxess, said: "When Care at Heart approached us for a partnership, I knew it held great promise to set a new standard for the industry. Carla and her team lead a world-class organization and as progressive organizations with complementary goals, together we can lead technological change for all hospice and palliative care providers."

Ryan Klaustermeier, Vice President of Innovation for Care at Heart and leader of the Palliative Care at Heart initiative, added: "Axxess has been a dedicated partner, with genuine interest in learning our needs, listening to our feedback, and applying their skills to create a solution tailored to our organization. Instead of taking an existing platform and trying to make palliative care work inside of it, they allowed us to create a solution designed specifically for palliative care. Because of this, we will improve patient outcomes by focusing documentation efforts where they matter most, achieving efficiency and provider satisfaction through a user-friendly solution focused on the essentials. It has been a pleasure to work with the Axxess team. It is clear they value our partnership and are dedicated to helping us achieve our goals."

Care at Heart is planning to transition all its service lines--Heart of Hospice, Kids at Heart, and Palliative Care at Heartto Axxess' technology solutions.

About Care at Heart

Care at Heart is based in Charleston, South Carolina and is the parent company for Heart of Hospice, Palliative Care at Heart, Kids at Heart, and Supportive Care at Heart. Our vision is to transform the care continuum in the communities we serve. We currently provide hospice, palliative, and supportive care to patients and their loved ones in 16 locations across five states. In 2020, we served over 8,000 patients.

About Axxess

Axxess is the leading home healthcare technology company, providing solutions that improve care for more than 2 million patients nationwide and are trusted by more than 7,000 organizations. Axxess offers a complete suite of easy-to-use, innovative software solutions, empowering home health, home care and hospice providers to grow their business while making lives better. The company's collaborative culture focused on innovation and excellence is recognized nationally as a "Best Place to Work."

CONTACT:

Kimberly Workman

Care at Heart

[email protected]

843.642.5009

www.careatheart.com

SOURCE Care at Heart

Related Links

http://www.careatheart.com


HARTFORD, Conn., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Virtus AllianzGI Artificial Intelligence & Technology Opportunities Fund (NYSE: AIO), Virtus AllianzGI Convertible & Income Fund (NYSE: NCV), Virtus AllianzGI Convertible & Income Fund II (NYSE: NCZ), Virtus AllianzGI Convertible & Income 2024 Target Term Fund (NYSE: CBH), and Virtus AllianzGI Diversified Income & Convertible Fund (NYSE: ACV) announced the following distribution declarations on their respective common shares:

Fund Distribution Per Common Share Virtus AllianzGI Artificial Intelligence & Technology Opportunities Fund $0.1250 Virtus AllianzGI Convertible & Income Fund $0.0425 Virtus AllianzGI Convertible & Income Fund II $0.0375 Virtus AllianzGI Convertible & Income 2024 Target Term Fund $0.0460 Virtus AllianzGI Diversified Income & Convertible Fund $0.1670







The distributions will be payable on June 1, 2021 to shareholders of record on May 13, 2021 with an ex-dividend date of May 12, 2021.

The amounts of distributions reported in this notice are estimates only and are not being provided for tax reporting purposes. The actual amounts and sources of the distributions will depend on the fund's investment experience during the remainder of its fiscal year and may be subject to changes based on tax regulations. The fund or your broker will send shareholders a Form 1099-DIV for the calendar year that will tell shareholders what distributions to report for federal income tax purposes.

About the Funds

Virtus AllianzGI Artificial Intelligence & Technology Opportunities Fund's investment objective is to provide total return through a combination of current income, current gains and long-term capital appreciation. Virtus AllianzGI Convertible & Income Fund and Virtus AllianzGI Convertible & Income Fund II each have an investment objective to provide total return through a combination of capital appreciation and high current income with income as a secondary objective. Virtus AllianzGI Convertible & Income 2024 Target Term Fund's investment objectives are to provide a high level of income and to return at least $9.835 per common share (the original net asset value per common share of beneficial interest before deducting offering costs of $0.02 per share) to holders of common shares on or about September 1, 2024. Virtus AllianzGI Diversified Income & Convertible Fund's investment objective is to provide total return through a combination of current income and capital appreciation, while seeking to provide downside protection against capital loss.

Virtus Investment Advisers, Inc. became the investment adviser of each fund, other than AIO, effective February 1, 2021 and of AIO effective February 26, 2021. Allianz Global Investors continues to manage each fund in a subadvisory capacity.

For more information on these funds, contact shareholder services at 800-254-5197, by email at [email protected], or through the closed-end fund section on the web at www.virtus.com .

Fund Risks

An investment in a fund is subject to risk, including the risk of possible loss of principal. A fund's shares may be worth less upon their sale than what an investor paid for them. Shares of closed-end funds may trade at a premium or discount to their net asset value. For more information about each fund's investment objective and risks, please see the fund's annual report. A copy of the fund's most recent annual report may be obtained free of charge by contacting "Shareholder Services" as set forth at the end of this press release.

About Allianz Global Investors

Allianz Global Investors or Allianz GI is a leading active asset manager with over 750 investment professionals in 25 offices worldwide and manages assets for individuals, families and institutions. The investment team has extensive experience managing closed-end funds and a differentiated, multi-asset approach based on fundamental research designed to dynamically allocate across convertible securities and equities.

About Virtus Investment Partners

Virtus Investment Partners (NASDAQ: VRTS) is a distinctive partnership of boutique investment managers singularly committed to the long-term success of individual and institutional investors. The company provides investment management products and services through its affiliated managers and select subadvisers, each with a distinct investment style, autonomous investment process, and individual brand. For more information, visit www.virtus.com.

SOURCE Virtus AllianzGI Artificial Intelligence & Technology Opportunities Fund; Virtus AllianzGI Convertible & Income Fund; Virtus AllianzGI Convertible & Income Fund II; Virtus AllianzGI Convertible & Income 2024 Target Term Fund; Virtus AllianzGI Diversified Income & Convertible Fund
The new process was launched successfully throughout the Cleveland Clinic health system in northeast Ohio in February 2021, following a successful pilot at Cleveland Clinic main campus and Cleveland Clinic Fairview Hospital in 2020. To implement a donor referral process that would work with each of the organization's platforms, Cleveland Clinic collaborated with Lifebanc , the non-profit organ procurement organization (OPO) for northeast Ohio, and Transplant Connect , a medical software company specializing in donation-transplant software.

One person's donation can save the lives of up to eight people and enhance the lives of 50 more. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services mandates that every U.S. hospital refer all deaths and imminent deaths to its designated OPO in a timely manner. When using the existing manual process, which is labor-intensive and time-consuming, hospital staff must identify each potential donor, place a call to notify the OPO and communicate relevant information to allow the donation evaluation to proceed.

"Our clinical and technical caregivers at Cleveland Clinic are continuously working to make improvements to identify candidates for organ donation," said Brent Hicks, senior director of digital and clinical health at Cleveland Clinic. "This resulted in significant workflow and time-saving improvements but still required a lengthy phone call to the OPO. With the new process, a phone call is no longer required. The entire donor referral process is now automated and in use in all of our northeast Ohio locations."

A Cleveland Clinic team of nurses, end-of-life care professionals, and technology experts worked together to automate the internal process while maintaining quality, privacy, and patient safety. The project came to fruition with support from a Cleveland Clinic Caregiver Catalyst Grant that rewards with funds the innovation and initiative of Cleveland Clinic caregivers.

"We pride ourselves on providing high-quality, safe care, and keep looking for ways to innovate," said Meredith Foxx, executive chief nursing officer at Cleveland Clinic. "Working closely with Lifebanc and Transplant Connect, we made improvements to our organ-donation process to benefit patient care, which translates into our nurses spending more time at the bedside with the patient and their family."

Transplant Connect's electronic medical record software, known as iTransplant, is used by Lifebanc and most other OPOs in the United States. It facilitates nearly 75% of U.S. organ transplants from deceased donation. Its automated donor referral interface, known as iReferral, is currently in nationwide rollout with many hospitals and OPOs. The iReferral interface allows for donor referrals to be sent automatically, immediately and securely from the hospital's electronic medical records system to the OPO's iTransplant system.

"This iReferral launch with Cleveland Clinic and Lifebanc is the largest deployment of automated donor referral technology to date," said John Piano, founder and chief executive officer at Transplant Connect and inventor of the automated donor referral.

"We are honored to have worked through this process with Transplant Connect and Cleveland Clinic," said Lifebanc's Chief Executive Officer Gordon Bowen. "By streamlining the organ donation referral process, the results will lead to more donors and more organs for those waiting for a life-saving gift."

ABOUT CLEVELAND CLINIC: Cleveland Clinic  now in its centennial year  is a nonprofit multispecialty academic medical center that integrates clinical and hospital care with research and education. Located in Cleveland, Ohio, it was founded in 1921 by four renowned physicians with a vision of providing outstanding patient care based upon the principles of cooperation, compassion and innovation. Cleveland Clinic has pioneered many medical breakthroughs, including coronary artery bypass surgery and the first face transplant in the United States. U.S. News & World Report consistently names Cleveland Clinic as one of the nation's best hospitals in its annual "America's Best Hospitals" survey. Among Cleveland Clinic's 70,800 employees worldwide are more than 4,660 salaried physicians and researchers, and 18,500 registered nurses and advanced practice providers, representing 140 medical specialties and subspecialties. Cleveland Clinic is a 6,500-bed health system that includes a 173-acre main campus near downtown Cleveland, 19 hospitals, more than 220 outpatient facilities, and locations in southeast Florida; Las Vegas, Nevada; Toronto, Canada; Abu Dhabi, UAE; and London, England. In 2020, there were 8.7 million total outpatient visits, 273,000 hospital admissions and observations, and 217,000 surgical cases throughout Cleveland Clinic's health system. Patients came for treatment from every state and 185 countries. Visit us at clevelandclinic.org. Follow us at twitter.com/ClevelandClinic. News and resources available at newsroom.clevelandclinic.org.

ABOUT LIFEBANC: Lifebanc is Northeast Ohio's non-profit organ, eye and tissue recovery organization with a mission to save and heal lives. The organization serves over 4 million people and works with 80 hospitals in a 20-county area. Lifebanc facilitates the organ, eye and tissue recovery and donation processes, provides extensive care and support services to donor families, as well as coordinates community outreach and education programs to encourage registration on the Ohio Donor Registry. For more information on Lifebanc or to register as an organ, eye and tissue donor visit www.lifebanc.org

ABOUT TRANSPLANT CONNECT: Transplant Connect is a socially-conscious medical software enterprise based in Los Angeles. Its iTransplant Donation-Transplant Ecosystem Software Platform is used to facilitate nearly 75% of all deceased donation in the U.S. as well as across a number of other countries and is relied upon every day by many thousands of medical professionals at hospitals, OPOs, transplant centers, tissue banks, eye banks, transport companies and other organizations. Integrated with its interoperable iTransplant Platform, the company's iReferral Hospital EMR Interface technology is in wide U.S. rollout and is disrupting and replacing the inefficient and time-consuming manual donor referral process between hospitals and OPOs. www.transplantconnect.com

ABOUT ORGAN, TISSUE AND EYE DONATION: Despite the increase in organ, eye and tissue donors there remains a critical organ shortage in the United States. There are currently 118,195 people waiting for a life-saving organ transplant across the country. There are 1,655 people waiting in Northeast Ohio alone. In 2020, 360 people in Northeast Ohio either died waiting for an organ or became too sick to transplant.



The best chance those still waiting have at receiving the life-saving transplant they need is by increasing the number of people who register their wishes to be an organ, eye and tissue donor. In 2020, over 47,712 people in Northeast Ohio registered for the first time on the Ohio Donor Registry.



To learn more about what it means to be an organ, eye and tissue donor and to register online, please click here. https://www.lifebanc.org/how-to-help/register-as-a-donor/

SOURCE Transplant Connect

Related Links

www.transplantconnect.com


"As COOKIES continues to expand, I focus on cherry-picking the best operators in each state," Said Berner, Founder and CEO of COOKIES . "We want a long term partner that is just as passionate about our genetics as we are, understands all parts of our operation, and most importantly, one we can trust to deliver quality products consistently, to the market. CommCan is the best partner for us in Massachusetts and we are fortunate to be bringing COOKIES to the East Coast." - Berner, Founder & CEO Cookies

CommCan's vertically integrated cultivation facility located in Medway, Massachusetts was the first ground up, purpose built new construction cannabis facility in the state. It's 60,000 square feet encompasses almost 40,000 square feet of canopy, an edibles kitchen, extraction lab, and a media production studio.

"Earning the trust and respect of Berner and his team is a validation of everything we have spent the last six years building here. We are a family business, and we couldn't be prouder to be a part of the Cookies family now as well." - Marc Rosenfeld, CEO CommCan, Inc.

In addition to the iconic Cookies strains, the partnership also brings longstanding Cookies brands, which include Lemonnade, Runtz, Minntz, Grandiflora, Powerzzzup Genetics, Run The Jewels and Collins Ave to Massachusetts' thriving recreational and medical markets.

About CommCan -

CommCan, founded and wholly owned by Ellen, Jon and Marc Rosenfeld in 2015 is the first family owned and operated cannabis company in Massachusetts. CommCan is also the first certified woman owned cannabis company in Massachusetts as well as the largest LGBTQ owned cannabis company in Massachusetts. CommCan is the creator of cannabis concentrates brand DRiP, edibles brand Bite, tincture and topical brand TINQ and the first recreationally compliant beverage on the East Coast - SIP.

CommCan owns and operates a recreational / medical dispensary in the town of Millis and a medical dispensary in the town of Southborough. CommCan plans a Summer 2021 opening of a recreational dispensary in the town of Rehoboth and possesses final local approval and preliminary state approvals for a medical dispensary in the town of Mansfield.

About Cookies -

COOKIES, founded in 2008 by Berner (the prolific Bay Area rapper and entrepreneur) and his partner Jai (a Bay Area breeder and cultivator) is more than a premiere cannabis company; it is an authentic lifestyle brand with passionate fans all over the world. The company went mainstream in 2011 and has grown its business through the combination of globally recognized premium genetics, popular culture resonance, and social media influence. COOKIES is constantly engaged in new breeding projects to launch differentiated brands and has quickly built a grassroots cult following while remaining loyal to its brand promise: authenticity and innovative genetics.

Stephano Del Rose

CommCan, Inc.

[email protected] / 508-794-3102



SOURCE CommCan

Related Links

www.commcan.com


MIAMI BEACH, Fla., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The Aesthetic Society announced the election of William P. Adams Jr. MD, a plastic surgeon practicing in Dallas, TX as the new President of the 2,600-member organization dedicated to aesthetic plastic surgery. Dr. Adams and his leadership team will focus on evidenced based aesthetic education and advancing the robust curriculum The Aesthetic Society provides for plastic surgeons.

"It is an exceptional honor to assume the role of President of The Aesthetic Society. Our members go above and beyond the standards of plastic surgeryadvancing the specialty while transforming lives," said William P. Adams Jr. MD, President of The Aesthetic Society. "I look forward to working with my team this year to amplify our educational offerings and support the elite group of plastic surgeons The Aesthetic Society is known for."

A member of the organization for 20 years, Dr. Adams has served on numerous committees and task forces in the last year including serving as The Aesthetic Society Education Commissioner, the Breast Implant Illness Task Force, the BIA-ALCL Task Force, the Aesthetic Training Committee and more. He is a past president of the Aesthetic Surgery Education and Research Foundation (ASERF) and has served on the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors of The Aesthetic Society.

Dr. Adams spent his first 8 years in full-time practice at the Department of Plastic Surgery at UT Southwestern Medical Center before transitioning to part-time. He is currently in private practice, in order to devote more time to his clinical practice and developments and is an Associate Professor in the Department of Plastic Surgery at UT Southwestern Medical Center, in addition to the Program Director of the UTSW Aesthetic Fellowship Program.

Dr. Adams is a national and global authority on breast implant surgery and implant-related issues. He developed new irrigations for use in clinical breast implant surgery that makes breast enlargement and breast reconstruction safer and drastically minimizes exposure to bacteria. Dr. Adams is currently doing active research on Capsular Contracture, Implants, advancements in surgical techniques, Breast Implant Associated ALCL (BIA-ALCL), and Breast Implant Illness (BII). He has published numerous papers, articles, and scholarly textbooks; and presented hundreds of invited plastic surgery lectures on the international level. He is on the breast editorial board of The Aesthetic Surgery Journal, the premier aesthetic journal of plastic surgery.

Other newly named Aesthetic Society officers serving on the Executive Committee are as follows:

President-Elect: Jennifer Walden, MD of Austin, TX has been a member of The Aesthetic Society since 2008. She is also a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. Dr. Walden is the first female physician at The Aesthetic Society to ascend to the Executive Committee in a leadership role on the Board of Directors. She has served as the organization's Communications Commissioner for four years and has served on a variety of committees and task forces. Dr. Walden has been recognized as one of Texas Super Doctors and since 2016, she has been one of Castle Connelly's Top Doctors. Dr. Walden was honored to be selected for membership into the American Association of Plastic Surgeons , an invitation-only, all-star academic society described as "the highest medium of recognition in the field of plastic surgery as evidenced by the contribution of its individual members." Dr. Walden operates her private practice, Walden Cosmetic Surgery & Laser Center and maintains privileges at the Hospital at Westlake Medical Center. She owns and operates medical spas in both Austin, TX and New York City, NY.

Vice President: Melinda J. Haws, MD of Nashville, TN has been a member of the Society since 2006. She is also a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and a fellow of the American College of Surgeons. Dr. Haws established The Plastic Surgery Center of Nashville with Mary Gingrass, MD in 2002. She is a member of the medical staff at St. Thomas Midtown Hospital. During her tenure with The Aesthetic Society, Dr. Haws has most recently served on critical task forces including Chair of the Breast Implant Illness Task Force and Co-Chair of the FDA Breast Implant Hearing Task Force. She has also just been named The Aesthetic Society's Communications Commissioner.

Treasurer: Kiya Movassaghi, MD, FACS has been a member of the Society since 2006. Based in Eugene, OR, Dr. Movassaghi came to Eugene in 2002 after 14 years in Boston where he completed his medical and surgical training at Harvard Medical School. His practice focuses on cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery. A 1995 graduate of Harvard Medical School, Dr. Movassaghi completed a three-year plastic surgery residency at the Harvard Combined Plastic Surgery Program. Prior to that training, he completed a residency in general surgery at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center at Harvard Medical School. He also received his DMD at Harvard Dental School, where he graduated magna cum laude. He followed this degree with a residency in maxillofacial surgery at Massachusetts General Hospital. Dr. Movassaghi is a Clinical Assistant Professor of Plastic Surgery at Oregon Health & Science University's School of Medicine in Portland. He is well versed in the latest techniques including Laser and Endoscopic Procedures with minimal scars and has authored numerous publications in leading scientific and plastic surgery journals.

Secretary: Tracy Pfeifer, MD is a double board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in aesthetic plastic surgery. She opened her Upper East Side Park Avenue practice, now on 5th Avenue, in 1999, fulfilling her dream of a boutique aesthetic surgery practice delivering personalized care and exceptional results, in order to help women feel their very best. Dr. Pfeifer was thrilled to open her second office location in the Hamptons in 2011.

About The Aesthetic Society:

The Aesthetic Society is recognized as the world's leading organization devoted entirely to aesthetic plastic surgery and cosmetic medicine of the face and body. The Aesthetic Society is comprised of more than 2,600 members in North America and internationally; Active Members are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (USA) or by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada and have extensive training in the complete spectrum of surgical and non-surgical aesthetic procedures. International Active Members are certified by equivalent boards of their respective countries. All members worldwide adhere to a strict Code of Ethics and must meet stringent membership requirements. The Aesthetic Society is at the forefront of innovation in aesthetic plastic surgery and cosmetic medicine globally.

Visit our website: www.surgery.org

Follow The Aesthetic Society on social:

Instagram

Twitter

Facebook

Locate a plastic surgeon in your area: http://www.smartbeautyguide.com/select-surgeon

Media contact: [email protected]

SOURCE The Aesthetic Society
The company has strengthened its balance sheet with approximately $30 million in capital raised

CEO Josh Bartch said the firm has built its intellectual property portfolio to position Mydecine as 'a key player in the advancement of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy'

Mydecine Innovations Group ( ) ( ) (FSE:0NFA) posted full year 2020 results that showed the company was well-funded to advance its intellectual property (IP) portfolio and expand its clinical trial calendar.

As of December 31, 2020, the Denver, Colorado-based biopharma company focused on the research and development of alternative nature-sourced medicine, had cash and equivalents of $2.2 million. Subsequently, Mydecine raised around $30 million.

Mydecine said it is well-funded to advance its IP portfolio, expand clinical trial calendar, expand European operations; and build out its technology division.

WATCH: Mydecine Innovations Group identifies its first four psychedelic-related novel drug candidates

In 2020, our team worked effectively to establish the foundation of Mydecine. We focused on closing strategic acquisitions and partnerships, advancing our clinical trials and building our intellectual property portfolio to position Mydecine as a key player in the advancement of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, Mydecine co-founder and CEO Josh Bartch said in a statement.

As we move ahead in 2021 with a vertically-integrated business model in place supported by a strengthened balance sheet and expanded team of world-class executives, we are strongly positioned to enter the next chapter of Mydecines journey to lead the future of the psychedelic therapeutics industry.

The company has appointed William Cook as the interim CEO and Technical Director of Mindleap, the companys first breakthrough digital technology which combines traditional telehealth, psychedelic medicine and advanced mood and behaviour tracking and analytics. The Mindleap platform offers a powerful set of tools for managing mental healthcare, noted the company.

Mr Cooks extensive technical and leadership experience combined with his passion for individuals mental health brings an exceptional combination to the leadership of Mindleap, said Bartch.

Cook has designed the Patriot missile system software parameters for the US Army. At , he has led the development of Patriot software including that used in Desert Storm. Cook was the architect and led a team of over 200 engineers in developing the THAAD missile defense brain software at Litton Industries, receiving Littons highest honors for technical achievement and leadership.

Cook has also received his Masters degree in marriage, family and child therapy and has performed thousands of hours of deep trauma-healing work in group and private psychotherapy, placing mental healthcare at the center of his passions.

Mr Cook is a trusted leader of our Mindleap team as we launch Mindleap 2.0 in the spring of 2021, said Bartch.

The company highlighted some of its clinicals studies:

Launched clinical trials in three continents for the Phase 2a study of psychedelic treatments for PTSD in veterans, and first responders with aims to achieve safer and more accurate psychedelic-led psychotherapy results in a supervised setting;

Completed the worlds first international legal export of dried psilocybin mushrooms providing access to a quality source of much needed product for both research purposes, as well as to sell and transfer CGMP naturally-derived psilocybin to other licensed research facilities around the globe;

Sponsored several studies with academia, including the first lab-based study of established microdosing at Macquarie University in Australia and neuron level response to psilocybin at University of Maryland.

Mydecine has identified four lead novel drug candidates that are unique and patentable:

MYCO - 001 is pure psilocybin from natural fungal sources;

MYCO - 002 is an entactogenic compound that has been created with the goal of reducing harm and improving the safety profile versus MDMA;

MYCO - 003 is a psilocybin-based formula with reduced anxiety potential, with the aim of removing the possibility of "bad trips," even with severely ill patients;

MYCO - 004 is a patch delivered tryptamine compound. Properties include short duration (around two hours), transdermal, precision dosing and long-term compound stability.

Contact the author Uttara Choudhury at uttara@proactiveinvestors.com

Follow her on Twitter: @UttaraProactive
CHICAGO, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- In-depth analysis and data-driven insights on the impact of COVID-19 included in this global data center rack market report.

The data center rack market is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 7% during the period 20202026. This report offers market size in terms of unit shipment.

Key Highlights Offered in the Report:

The data center rack market has grown by over 55% from 2019 to 2020, owing to the increasing demand resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, rising investment in hyperscale data centers, and the adoption of edge and modular data centers. In 2020, APAC received over 30% of the total investment in the rack market across the world. Within APAC, China led the market with over 45% of the rack market investment. The 42U rack size is expected to lead the market during the forecast period, with a cumulative revenue opportunity of around USD 3.2 billion for rack market vendors catering to the demand in this segment. Hyperscale data centers with a power capacity of over 15 MW, contributed to around 65% of the total rack market demand in 2020. There is increased adoption of OCP-based rack architecture, especially among hyperscale data center operators that will be a major boost to the growth of the 42U and 48U rack segments

Key Offerings:

Market Size & Forecast by Revenue | 20202026

Market Dynamics  Leading trends, growth drivers, restraints, and investment opportunities

Market Segmentation  A detailed analysis by rack size, products, end-users, and geography

Competitive Landscape  6 key vendors and 29 other vendors

Get your sample today! https://www.arizton.com/market-reports/data-center-rack-market

Data Center Rack Market  Segmentation

In terms of investment, the global 42U rack market is likely to lead the market, accounting for over USD 613 million by 2026. The global 42U racks market expects to reach over 376 thousand units in 2026, growing at a CAGR of 8%. The demand for 42U will continue to be high, with steady growth in revenue due to the construction of new facilities and increased renovations.

by 2026. The global 42U racks market expects to reach over 376 thousand units in 2026, growing at a CAGR of 8%. The demand for 42U will continue to be high, with steady growth in revenue due to the construction of new facilities and increased renovations. Enclosures & cabinets are likely to cross over USD 1.9 billion by 2026, growing at a CAGR of 6%. The adoption of racks and their associated accessories varies from one facility to another. The cost will increase based on accessories adopted. Most facilities are developing hot/cold aisle containment systems, where racks are installed with cable and airflow management accessories.

by 2026, growing at a CAGR of 6%. The adoption of racks and their associated accessories varies from one facility to another. The cost will increase based on accessories adopted. Most facilities are developing hot/cold aisle containment systems, where racks are installed with cable and airflow management accessories. In 2020, the colocation market witnessed the installation of 400,000 racks. The APAC region was the major contributor, with the addition of 180,000 in over 95 colocation facilities. North America follows it with the acquisition of over 100,000 in over 110 colocation facilities. The Middle East & Africa region witnessed the adoption of over 18,000 rack capacity in over 20 colocation data center facilities.

Data Center Rack Market by Rack Size

Below 42U

42U

4547U

48U

Other Sizes

Data Center Rack Market by Product

Racks Enclosures & Cabinets

Accessories

Data Center Rack Market by End-user

Colocation Data Centers

Enterprise Data Centers

Data Center Rack Market  Dynamics

About 120 hyperscale data centers were either operational in 2020 or being constructed and expected to be operational by June 2021, with significant contributions from Facebook, Digital Realty, Google, GDS Holdings, Apple, and COPT Data Center Solutions. These data centers together accounted for a rack capacity of over 365,000 cabinets, with over 3,000 rack cabinets added on average per facility. In the US, 47 hyperscale data center facilities added over 150,000 rack cabinets. In China, 17 data center facilities added over 71,000 rack cabinets. The US, China, India, Australia, Japan, and Sweden witnessed investments in around 85 hyperscale projects in 2020, together with adding over 280,000 racks. New entrants in the hyperscale space increased over the last year. In 2020, the market witnessed the entry of many new investors in hyperscale data center spaces that include T-Rex (US), Archer Datacenters (US), AQ Compute (Europe), Scala Data Centers (Latin America), Echelon Data Centres (Europe), PointOne (the US & Canada), Cirrus Data Services (US), Stratus DC Management (Worldwide), Mantra Data Centers (India), Digital Edge DC (APAC), IXAfrica (Kenya), and PAIX (Ghana & Kenya).

Key Drivers and Trends fueling Market Growth:

Increasing Deployments of Edge Data Centers

Adoption of Open Rack Architecture

Growth in Adoption of Modular Data Center

Growth in Taller, Deeper, and Wider Rack Procurement

Data Center Rack Market  Geography

The North American data center market leads the data center industry with the early adoption of innovative infrastructure and investments from colocation service providers, hyperscale data center operators, enterprises, and government agencies. The region is an incumbent for new technological innovation for infrastructure in the data center arena. The region has also been active in the construction of hyperscale facilities with a power capacity of over 20 MW. The major contributors of market growth in North America are Facebook, Google, Equinix, Digital Realty, Compass Datacenters, Cologix, Vantage Data Centers, NTT Global Data Centers, QTS Realty Trust, CoreSite Realty, CyrusOne, and Switch. The US contributes around 45% to the overall data center investment traffic across the globe and is also one of the largest contributors in the global data center rack market.

Get your sample today! https://www.arizton.com/market-reports/data-center-rack-market

Data Center Rack Market by Geography

North America

US



Canada

Latin America

Brazil



Other Countries

Western Europe

UK



Germany



France



Netherlands



Ireland



Other Countries

Nordic

Denmark



Iceland & Finland

&

Norway



Sweden

Central & Eastern Europe

Russia & Czech Republic

&

Poland & Austria

&

Other Central and Eastern Countries

Middle East

GCC



Other Middle Eastern Countries

Africa

South Africa



Kenya



Other African Countries

APAC

China & Hong Kong

&

Australia & New Zealand

&

India



Japan



Rest of APAC



Southeast Asia



Singapore





Malaysia





Thailand





Indonesia





Other South Eastern Countries

Major Vendors

Eaton

Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE)

Legrand

Schneider Electric

Rittal

Vertiv Group

Other Prominent Data Center Rack Providers

Austin Hughes Electronics

Beijing Finen Electronic Equipment

Belden

BLACKBOX

C&F Group

Cannon Technologies

Canovate

Chatsworth Products

Cisco Systems

Conteg

Crenlo (Emcor)

Cyber Power Systems

Dataracks

Delta Electronics

Enconnex

FUJITSU

Great Lakes Data Racks & Cabinets

IBM

Inspur

Oracle

Panduit

Prism Enclosures

Rack Solutions

Rahi Systems

Retex

Schroff (nVent)

com

Tripp Lite

USystems

Explore our data center knowledge base profile to know more about the industry.

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About Arizton:

Arizton Advisory and Intelligence is an innovation and quality-driven firm, which offers cutting-edge research solutions to clients across the world. We excel in providing comprehensive market intelligence reports and advisory and consulting services.

We offer comprehensive market research reports on industries such as consumer goods & retail technology, automotive and mobility, smart tech, healthcare, and life sciences, industrial machinery, chemicals and materials, IT and media, logistics and packaging. These reports contain detailed industry analysis, market size, share, growth drivers, and trend forecasts.

Arizton comprises a team of exuberant and well-experienced analysts who have mastered in generating incisive reports. Our specialist analysts possess exemplary skills in market research. We train our team in advanced research practices, techniques, and ethics to outperform in fabricating impregnable research reports.

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SOURCE Arizton Advisory & Intelligence
CONSHOHOCKEN, Pa., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- David's Bridal, LLC (the "Company"), the nation's leading bridal and special occasion authority, announced today the closing of a $70 million term loan provided by CPPIB Credit Investments Inc., a subsidiary of Canada Pension Plan Investment Board ("CPP Investments"). The new term loan matures in 2024 and will be used by the Company to fund operations and for general corporate purposes.

As of closing on April 30, 2021, the Company had total unrestricted cash of $63 million and zero borrowings on its $125 million Revolving Credit Facility.

"Having successfully driven our retail service levels to best in class and modernized and digitized our marketing and customer interaction processes, David's is executing well and accelerating its additional growth initiatives," said Chief Executive Officer Jim Marcum. "We are experiencing strong momentum as COVID-related restrictions continue to ease, weddings return, and pent-up demand from last year plays out over the course of this year," added Marcum. "CPP Investments is one of the largest and most respected investors in the world and their investment will help enable the Company to fully capitalize on the unique opportunity before us."

Christine Pope, Board Chair of the Company and Managing Director at Oaktree Capital Management, L.P., added, "The management team at David's has been extraordinarily successful in executing their transformation plan, despite the impacts of COVID, and this transaction further validates the confidence that we and other existing investors have in the Company, its team, and its strategy going forward."

Mr. Marcum concluded: "I would like to thank all of our valued employees for their incredible efforts over this past year. Together, we confronted unprecedented challenges, adapted as necessary, and emerged stronger than ever before."

Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP served as the Company's legal advisor and Greenhill & Co., LLC served as financial advisor.

About David's Bridal

With 70 years of experience dressing customers for all of life's special occasions, David's Bridal is built on the idea that everyone deserves to have the attire of their dreams regardless of style preference, shape, size, or budget. We believe in inclusivity, authenticity, and empowerment, and it is our mission to help anyone and everyone find the look that will allow them to be the best, most genuine version of themselves on their wedding day or any special occasion. David's Bridal is dedicated to helping each customer, with the assistance of online planning tools, knowledgeable stylists, and expert tailors who will guide them through the entire purchasing journey. With more than 300 stores located across the US, Canada, UK, and franchise locations in Mexico, we offer the convenience of one-stop shopping for the entire wedding party and beyond. To learn more about David's Bridal, visit www.DavidsBridal.com, and connect on social media through Instagram, YouTube, Pinterest, Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, and LinkedIn.

Media Contact:

David's Bridal

[email protected]

About CPP Investments

Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPP Investments) is a professional investment management organization that manages the Fund in the best interest of the more than 20 million contributors and beneficiaries of the Canada Pension Plan. In order to build diversified portfolios of assets, investments are made around the world in public equities, private equities, real estate, infrastructure and fixed income. Headquartered in Toronto, with offices in Hong Kong, London, Luxembourg, Mumbai, New York City, San Francisco, Sao Paulo and Sydney, CPP Investments is governed and managed independently of the Canada Pension Plan and at arm's length from governments. At December 31, 2020, the Fund totalled C$475.7 billion. For more information, please visit www.cppinvestments.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook or Twitter.

SOURCE David's Bridal, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.davidsbridal.com


Download free sample report

Key Highlights Offered in the Report:

Information on how to identify strategic and tactical negotiation levels that will help achieve the best prices.

Gain information on relevant pricing levels, detailed explanation on pros and cons of prevalent pricing models.

Methods to help engage with the right suppliers and discover KPI's to evaluate incumbent suppliers.

Request a free sample report for more information

Insights into buyer strategies and tactical negotiation levers:

Several strategic and tactical negotiation levers are explained in the report to help buyers achieve the best prices for the Diesel market. The report also aids buyers with relevant Diesel pricing levels, pros, and cons of prevalent pricing models such as volume-based pricing, spot pricing, and cost-plus pricing and category management strategies and best practices to fulfill their category objectives.

Insights on buyer strategies and tactical negotiation levers

Key Drivers and Trends Fueling Market Growth:

The pressure from substitutes and a moderate level of threat from new entrants has resulted in the low bargaining power of suppliers.

Price forecasts are beneficial in purchase planning, especially when supplemented by the constant monitoring of price influencing factors. During the forecast period, the market expects a change of 2.00%-4.00%.

Identify favorable opportunities in Diesel TCO (total cost of ownership).

Expected changes in price forecast and factors driving the current and future price changes.

Identify pricing models that offer the most rewarding opportunities.

Some of the top Diesel suppliers listed in this report:

This Diesel procurement intelligence report has enlisted the top suppliers and their cost structures, SLA terms, best selection criteria, and negotiation strategies.

ExxonMobil Corp.

BP Plc

Royal Dutch Shell Plc

Saudi Arabian Oil Co.

Chevron Corp.

China National Petroleum Corp.

Total SE

Valero Energy Corp.

PJSC Gazprom

ConocoPhillips Co.

Related Report on Utilities Include:

To get instant access to over 1000 market-ready procurement intelligence reports without any additional costs or commitment,

Subscribe Now for Free

Table of Content

Executive Summary

Market Insights

Category Pricing Insights

Cost-saving Opportunities

Best Practices

Category Ecosystem

Category Management Strategy

Category Management Enablers

Suppliers Selection

Suppliers under Coverage

US Market Insights

Category scope

Appendix

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The 85-city U.S. tour stars Tony-nominee Susan Egan ('Belle' from Broadway's Beauty and the Beast , 'Meg' from the animated feature film Hercules ), two-time Tony-nominee Laura Osnes ('Cinderella' in Rodgers + Hammerstein's Cinderella ), Grammy-nominee Courtney Reed ('Jasmine' in Broadway's Aladdin ), and rising star Aisha Jackson ('Anna' in Broadway's Frozen ) during the first leg of the tour through December 2021. Beginning February 2022 and through the tour's conclusion on April 16 at the American Music Theatre in Lancaster, PA, the line-up will feature Drama Desk-nominee Christy Altomare ('Anastasia' in Broadway's Anastasia , Mamma Mia!), Susan Egan, Courtney Reed and BroadwayWorld Award-winner Syndee Winters ('Nala' in Broadway's The Lion King , Hamilton ). Music Director Benjamin Rauhala ( Fiddler on the Roof , The Secret Life of Bees ) and enchanting Prince Adam J. Levy ( Waitress ) will also join the featured quartets throughout the tour.

Fans are encouraged to dress up in their best royal attire for an unforgettable evening. Dreams will come true as these acclaimed performers sing over 30 favorite Disney Princess songs, and share their exclusive, hilarious and heartfelt behind-the-scenes stories from their time on the stage and screen. Larger than life animations and visuals accompanying the music will immerse the audience in pure Disney magic.

Disney Princess - The Concert is based on the established touring production Broadway Princess Party, which began as a cabaret show at Feinstein's/54 Below in NYC in 2015. It garnered critical success and a loyal fan base, including over 20 million views on YouTube. This new venture is co-produced by Disney Concerts with Broadway Princess Party, LLC, as led by partners Susan Egan, Laura Osnes, Benjamin Rauhala, and Courtney Reed.

The show's creative team now also includes creative director Amy Tinkham (Coco at the Hollywood Bowl, Aerosmith's Las Vegas Residency), and veteran choreographer Sunny Walters (New Kids on the Block, Ghost: The Musical on Broadway).

Fans can listen to their favorite Disney Princess songs now on a curated playlist from Walt Disney Records. For more information and additional cities to be announced, visit DisneyPrincessConcert.com.

About Disney Concerts

Disney Concerts is the concert production and licensing division of Disney Music Group, the music arm of The Walt Disney Company. Disney Concerts produces concerts and tours, and licenses Disney music and visual content to symphony orchestras and presenters on a worldwide basis. Disney Concerts' concert packages include a variety of formats, such as "live to picture" film concerts and themed instrumental and vocal compilation concerts, and range from instrumental-only symphonic performances to multimedia productions featuring live vocalists and choir. Current titles include the Star Wars Film Concert Series (Episodes IV-VIII), Toy Story, Aladdin, The Muppet Christmas Carol, Disney Princess - The Concert, Coco, The Lion King, Up and The Nightmare Before Christmas, which in 2019 accounted for over 900 performances in many of the world's top concert venues.

https://www.instagram.com/disneyconcerts/

https://www.facebook.com/disneyconcerts/

https://twitter.com/disneyconcerts/

About Pandora

Pandora designs, manufactures, and markets hand-finished jewelry made from high-quality materials at affordable prices. Pandora jewelry is sold in more than 100 countries through 7,400 points of sale, including more than 2,700 concept stores. Headquartered in Copenhagen, Denmark, Pandora employs 28,000 people worldwide and crafts its jewelry at two LEED certified facilities in Thailand using mainly recycled silver and gold. The company plans to be carbon neutral by 2025 and has joined the Science Based Targets initiative to reduce emissions across its full value chain. Pandora is listed on the Nasdaq Copenhagen stock exchange and generated sales of DKK 21.9 billion (EUR 2.9 billion) in 2019.

SOURCE Disney Concerts
NEW YORK, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Dyal Capital Partners today announced that the investors in the funds it manages provided the required consents to permit the closing of its pending strategic combination with Owl Rock Capital Group and Altimar Acquisition Corporation (NYSE: ATAC). Additionally, the Securities and Exchange Commission has declared effective the S-4 filed by Altimar, the special purpose acquisition company buying the merged company to form Blue Owl Capital.

Owl Rock announced in March an overwhelming majority of affirmative votes from shareholders of each of its four requisite business development companies to approve the business combination.

Owl Rock, Dyal and Altimar agreed in December to form Blue Owl, a differentiated $50.9 billion AUM alternative asset manager with industry leading franchises in two of the fastest growing areas of alternative asset management: Direct Lending and GP Capital Solutions. The Dyal Capital Partners funds are currently part of Neuberger Berman, a private, independent, employee-owned investment manager.

Sean Ward, Founding Partner and Managing Director of Dyal Capital Partners said: "We greatly appreciate the broad support we received from our investors and other parties with whom we have engaged during this process. We look forward to finalizing this transaction and strengthening our position as a leading private markets capital partner and investment manager."

Michael Rees, Head of Dyal Capital Partners, said: "We are excited about the benefits we believe Blue Owl will deliver for our stakeholders, including the support we will offer financial sponsors and private companies as they continue to serve as an engine of growth for the broader economy."

Rees will be co-president of Blue Owl alongside Owl Rock Co-Founder and President Marc Lipschultz. Management believes that Blue Owl will offer public investors a uniquely attractive way to gain exposure to the alternative asset management sector through its potential combination of strong growth and margins with a focus on permanent capital and fee related earnings (FRE). Specifically, 91% of Blue Owl's $50.9 billion in AUM will be permanent capital and the company initially will derive all its distributable earnings from FRE, which allows for enhanced predictability of earnings.

A special meeting of stockholders of Altimar to approve the business combination between Dyal Capital Partners and Owl Rock Capital Group is scheduled to be held on Tuesday, May 18, 2021, at 11:30 a.m. ET. If the proposals at the special meeting are approved, the business combination is expected to close on May 19, 2021, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions.

Blue Owl is expected to be listed on the NYSE under the ticker symbol "OWL" following the anticipated close of the business combination.

About Owl Rock

Owl Rock Capital Group, together with its subsidiaries, is a New York based alternative asset manager with approximately $27.1 billion of assets under management as of December 31, 2020. Owl Rock's platform consists of multiple investment funds and products including business development companies. Owl Rock is comprised of a team of seasoned investment professionals with significant and diverse experience from some of the world's leading investment firms and financial institutions. Owl Rock's relationship-oriented approach to investing seeks to provide companies with sizeable commitments to facilitate transactions and support their growth needs with certainty, speed and transparency throughout the entire investment process. For more information, please visit us at www.owlrock.com.

About Dyal Capital Partners

Dyal Capital Partners seeks to acquire minority equity stakes in and provide financing to established alternative asset managers. With over a decade of experience transacting with institutional financial firms, Dyal has completed over 50 equity and debt transactions and manages approximately $23.8 billion in aggregate capital commitments as of December 31, 2020. Central to Dyal's success is our Business Services Platform (the "BSP"). The BSP is a team that provides strategic support to underlying management company partners in various areas, primarily including capital strategy and advisory services. Part of Neuberger Berman, the Dyal team is located in New York, London, and Hong Kong.

Media Contact:

Prosek Partners

David Wells / Josh Clarkson / Emily Goldberg

[email protected] / [email protected] / [email protected]

Important Additional Information about the Business Combination and Where to Find It:

In connection with the Business Combination, a registration statement on Form S-4 (the "Registration Statement") has been declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"), which includes a definitive proxy statement with respect to the Special Meeting (the "Proxy Statement"). Altimar's shareholders and other interested persons are advised to read the Registration Statement and combined proxy statement/prospectus contained therein and any documents filed in connection therewith, as these materials will contain important information about Blue Owl, Altimar, and the Business Combination. The Proxy Statement will be mailed to Altimar's shareholders who were holders of record as of April 23, 2021. The documents filed by Altimar with the SEC may be obtained free of charge at the SEC's website at www.sec.gov. In addition, the documents filed by Altimar may be obtained free of charge from Altimar at www.altimaracquisition.com. Alternatively, these documents can be obtained free of charge from Altimar upon written request to Altimar Acquisition Corporation, 40 West 57th Street, New York, New York 10019, Attn: Secretary, or by calling 2122876767.

Participants in the Solicitation

Altimar and certain of its respective directors and executive officers may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from the stockholders of Altimar, in favor of the approval of the Business Combination. For information regarding Altimar's directors and executive officers, please see Altimar's annual report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on February 24, 2021 and as amended on April 22, 2021. Additional information regarding the interests of those participants and other persons who may be deemed participants in the transaction may be obtained by reading the Proxy Statement. Free copies of these documents may be obtained as described in the preceding section.

Non-Solicitation

The disclosure herein is not a proxy statement or solicitation of a proxy, consent or authorization with respect to any securities or in respect of the proposed Business Combination and shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall there be any sale of any such 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 such state or jurisdiction. No offer of securities shall be made except by means of a definitive document.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements made in this press release, and oral statements made from time to time by representatives of Dyal, Owl Rock, Neuberger and Altimar are "forward looking statements" within the meaning of the "safe harbor" provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Statements regarding the proposed Business Combination and expectations regarding the combined business are "forward looking statements." In addition, words such as "estimates," "projects," "expects," "anticipates," "forecasts," "plans," "intends," "believes," "seeks," "may," "will," "would," "should," "future," "propose," "target," "goal," "objective," "outlook" and variations of these words or similar expressions (or the negative versions of such words or expressions) are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, conditions or results, and involve a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important factors, many of which are outside the control of Dyal, Owl Rock, Neuberger and Altimar, that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. Important factors, among others, that may affect actual results or outcomes include: the inability of the parties to complete the proposed Business Combination with Owl Rock and Dyal; the risk of delays in the expected timing of the closing of the proposed Business Combination with Owl Rock and Dyal; the risk that Altimar shareholder approval of the proposed Business Combination is not obtained; the inability to recognize the anticipated benefits of the proposed Business Combination, which may be affected by, among other things, the amount of funds available in Altimar's trust account following any redemptions by Altimar's stockholders; changes in general economic conditions, including as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic; the outcome of litigation related to or arising out of the proposed Business Combination, or any adverse developments therein or delays or costs resulting therefrom; the ability to meet the New York Stock Exchange's listing standards following the consummation of the proposed Business Combination; costs related to the proposed Business Combination; those factors discussed in Altimar's annual report on Form 10-K, filed with the SEC on February 24, 2021 and as amended on April 22, 2021, under the heading "Risk Factors"; those factors discussed in the Proxy Statement under the heading "Risk Factors" and other documents of Altimar filed, or to be filed, with the SEC. Dyal, Owl Rock, Neuberger and Altimar do not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

This press release includes references to fee related earnings, or FRE, which is a supplemental measure that is not required by, or prepared in accordance with, accounting principles generally accepted in the United States ("GAAP").

FRE is used to assess core operating performance by determining whether recurring revenue is sufficient to cover operating expenses and to generate profits. FRE is derived from and reconciled to, but not equivalent to, its most directly comparable GAAP measure of Net Income (Loss) Before Income Taxes. FRE differs from income before taxes computed in accordance with GAAP as it excludes performance income, performance related compensation, investment net gains (losses) and certain other items that we believe are not indicative of our core operating performance. We use FRE as a non-GAAP measure to assess and track our performance. FRE is not a measurement of our financial performance under GAAP and should be considered in addition to, and not in lieu of, the results of operations which are derived in accordance with GAAP.

SOURCE Dyal Capital Partners
OAKLAND, Calif., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- On Tuesday, May 4th, at 10:00am, home cooks, food justice advocates, and community members will gather outside of the Alameda County Administration Building on 1221 Oak Street in Oakland, CA, to urge Alameda County's Board of Supervisors to opt in to California AB 626 , permitting the sale of home cooked food through Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operations (MEHKOs).

Salaams, an Oakland-based home cook, shared, "Having these laws adopted would open up the ability for so many people to actually own businesses that would never be able to. It could be massively empowering to a lot of people."

COVID-19 has battered the US restaurant and food service industries, leaving strings of restaurants shuttered and an estimated 7-9 million food workers unemployed. Supporters say these home kitchen permits offer a path forward for economic revitalization, creating income opportunities for low-income people of color, immigrants, stay-at-home moms, and others excluded from traditional food business ownership due to high capital costs.

Alameda's vote follows major progress in passing similar home cooking laws across the US: CA's Solano County and the City of Berkeley have already opted-in to AB 626 and begun accepting applications; Utah just became the 2nd state to permit MEHKOs with HB 0094, signed into law in March 2021; and New York's SB S5951 and Washington's HB 1258 are currently pushing their way through state legislatures.

MEHKOs were codified in Chapter 11.6 of California's Retail Food Code by AB 626, and signed into law by Governor Jerry Brown in September 2018. Riverside County, the first jurisdiction in the US to opt in to the state legislation and permit MEHKOs, has seen their program hailed as an extraordinary success. More than 100 MEHKOs have been permitted in Riverside County in the last 12 months.

Santos Cruz, head chef and owner of the Jive Puerto Rican, is one of the many cooks who has directly benefited from this first-of-its-kind food law. Cruz shares, "I'm a seasoned chef, and I've been in the food industry for over 20 years now. I got laid off last summer due to the Covid situation, and I started an endeavor to start my own business...They've allowed people like myself to legally sell food and share their passion for the culinary arts." Chef Cruz's Riverside home restaurant has seen consistent sold-out success since opening six months ago, thanks to Riverside County's decision to opt in to AB 626 in 2019.

On Tuesday, May 4th, 2021, Alameda County votes on the same program that Riverside County approved in 2019. The vote will determine whether Alameda County chefs like Salaams and Santos can legally earn money employing their culinary skills, and whether they will be given an opportunity to thrive as counties inch toward economic recovery post-COVID.

About Foodnome: Foodnome is the first legal marketplace for home cooked food in the US. We have advocated and organized for years to create a more equitable, inclusive, and human-centered food economy. We support home cooks through every step of creating a successful home restaurant business, and connect them with their hungry neighbors through our web platform Foodnome.com . Join us as we work to empower food entrepreneurship, build community, and redefine our relationship to our food!

Contact:

Isaac O'Leary

Vice President of Operations, Foodnome

[email protected]

(323) 605-1760

SOURCE Foodnome

Related Links

https://www.foodnome.com/


NITRO, W.V., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Energy Services of America Corporation (the "Company" or "Energy Services") (OTC QB: ESOA) announced that its Nitro Construction Services Inc. ("Nitro") subsidiary completed the purchase of substantially all the assets of Revolt Energy, Inc. ("Revolt Energy"), a solar installation company located in Nitro, West Virginia. Founded in 2019, Revolt Energy is a leader in residential solar projects in southern West Virginia that is expanding its focus to the commercial and industrial markets.

The asset purchase, completed on April 30, 2021, marks Nitro's commitment to the growing solar and renewable energy industry. Revolt Energy is in the process of completing a 487-kilowatt solar array system consisting of approximately 1,200 solar panels that will soon power Nitro's office and fabrication shop facilities. Nitro and Revolt Energy will be hosting an open house on May 7th from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 4300 1st Avenue, Nitro, WV for the public to see the current project and learn about the solar industry.

Douglas Reynolds, President, commented on the announcement. "We are excited about this venture into the solar and renewable energy industry and see this as a market with a great opportunity for future growth. With the current project at our Nitro facility, Revolt Energy is proving they can excel at large-scale commercial installations as well as residential." Reynolds continued, "This acquisition offers natural synergies with Nitro's current electrical capabilities and will help diversify the services offered to our existing customers and will open doors for new opportunities."

Certain statements contained in the release including, without limitation, the words "believes," "anticipates," "intends," "expects" or words of similar import, constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"). Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements of the Company expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, among others, general economic and business conditions, changes in business strategy or development plans, the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic, the integration of acquired business and other factors referenced in this release. Given these uncertainties, prospective investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. The Company disclaims any obligation to update any such factors or to publicly announce the results of any revisions to any of the forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect future events or developments.

SOURCE Energy Services of America
CHICAGO, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Enova International (NYSE: ENVA), a leading financial technology company powered by machine learning and artificial intelligence, today announced the postponement of its 2021 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the "Annual Meeting") that was previously to be held on May 11, 2021, at 9:30 a.m. Central Time. The meeting will be rescheduled for a date yet to be determined by the Board of Directors, in order to give its stockholders the opportunity to vote on a proposal to ratify the appointment of Deloitte as the Company's independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2021. Deloitte was selected following a competitive proposal process. The Board of Directors will establish a new record date for the Annual Meeting and, based on this record date, the Company will deliver a notice of the new Annual Meeting date to stockholders entitled to receive notice of the Annual Meeting.

About Enova

Enova International (NYSE: ENVA) is a leading financial technology company providing online financial services through its artificial intelligence and machine learning powered lending platform. Enova serves the needs of non-prime consumers and small businesses, who are frequently underserved by traditional banks. Enova has provided more than 7 million customers with over $40 billion in loans and financing with market leading products that provide a path for them to improve their financial health. You can learn more about the company and its brands at www.enova.com.

SOURCE Enova International, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.enova.com


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Contact

BizVibe

Jesse Maida

Email: [email protected]

+1 855-897-5880

Website: https://www.bizvibe.com/



SOURCE BizVibe

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KING OF PRUSSIA, Pa., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Evolve IP, a leading international service provider of Work Anywhere solutions, today announced that it has expanded its existing international coverage for its Microsoft Teams and Cisco Voice solution leveraging Microsoft Teams Direct Routing. Evolve IP's multinational Teams voice solution delivers services in over 50 countries and features two-way calling in over 30 countries, making it ideal for businesses with North American headquarters and multiple international locations.



Key benefits of Evolve IP's Microsoft Teams direct routing solution for international businesses include:

Platform-Level Integration  Evolve Teams with Cisco VoIP is a platform-level solution ensuring users fully benefit from all of the features of Teams and Cisco voice / UCaaS. The solution not only improves reliability, it also alleviates the risks associated with relying on untested 3 rd parties, plug-ins, and unplanned updates made to browsers.

 Evolve Teams with Cisco VoIP is a platform-level solution ensuring users fully benefit from all of the features of Teams and Cisco voice / UCaaS. The solution not only improves reliability, it also alleviates the risks associated with relying on untested 3 parties, plug-ins, and unplanned updates made to browsers. Work Anywhere  With Evolve IP, businesses can continue to run as they are today. All of the call control functions and advanced features businesses need, such as multi-level auto-attendants, advanced hunt groups, overhead paging, receptionist clients, and more are fully enabled.

With Evolve IP, businesses can continue to run as they are today. All of the call control functions and advanced features businesses need, such as multi-level auto-attendants, advanced hunt groups, overhead paging, receptionist clients, and more are fully enabled. Gain availability and business continuity  Integrating Evolve IP's Cisco voice network with Teams ensures that business communications are always available. Regardless of network conditions at home or in the office, calls can be configured and delivered wherever employees are working.

 Integrating Evolve IP's Cisco voice network with Teams ensures that business communications are always available. Regardless of network conditions at home or in the office, calls can be configured and delivered wherever employees are working. Crystal-clear voice services  Evolve IP's advanced international network of carriers and PSTN routes deliver unparalleled voice quality and reliability.

 Evolve IP's advanced international network of carriers and PSTN routes deliver unparalleled voice quality and reliability. Integrated Contact Center  agents and managers can deliver a world-class customer experience while gaining the productivity benefits of Microsoft Teams and collaborating with the rest of their business colleagues.

agents and managers can deliver a world-class customer experience while gaining the productivity benefits of Microsoft Teams and collaborating with the rest of their business colleagues. Runs Seamlessly in Evolve IP's DaaS Solution  Evolve IP's Teams direct routing runs smoothly with Real-Time Audio & Video (RTAV) on the company's virtual desktop solution providing an enhanced user experience for remote and hybrid workers in North America .

DaaS Solution  Evolve IP's Teams direct routing runs smoothly with Real-Time Audio & Video (RTAV) on the company's virtual desktop solution providing an enhanced user experience for remote and hybrid workers in . 3 rd Party Audited  Evolve IP ensures businesses can maintain compliance by undergoing annual audits for major initiatives such as HIPAA / HITRUST, PCI-DSS, SOC2, and more. Additionally, data is stored regionally to ensure GDPR compliance.

 Evolve IP ensures businesses can maintain compliance by undergoing annual audits for major initiatives such as HIPAA / HITRUST, PCI-DSS, SOC2, and more. Additionally, data is stored regionally to ensure GDPR compliance. Hardware continuity  Evolve Teams with Cisco voice works on current SIP phones so businesses can leverage previous investments.

 Evolve Teams with Cisco voice works on current SIP phones so businesses can leverage previous investments. Flexible deployments  Evolve Teams solutions are tailored for businesses including designing, deploying and supporting environments that have both Teams and non-Teams users.

Evolve Teams solutions are tailored for businesses including designing, deploying and supporting environments that have both Teams and non-Teams users. Microsoft Gold Partner - Bundle your Teams voice and O365 licensing on one bill. Clients are supported by annually certified Microsoft experts and 24/7/365 US-based personnel.

- Bundle your Teams voice and O365 licensing on one bill. Clients are supported by annually certified Microsoft experts and 24/7/365 US-based personnel. Sophisticated management and reporting  Simplifies user provisioning, delivers usage reports, and provides advanced voice quality dashboards.

"We're thrilled to expand the delivery of our Microsoft Teams and Cisco Voice solution even further into the EU, UK, and Asia-Pacific and are actively adding new countries as opportunities arise," said Scott Kinka, Chief Strategy Officer of Evolve IP. "Businesses today face a great deal of uncertainty regarding the timing of when and where employees will be working. And, for North American and European businesses with international locations, those challenges are even greater. Evolve IP's solution can be tailored around their specific business needs, varied deployment locations, and technology integrations, and we're looking forward to further partnering with clients on their international rollouts."



Why Clients Choose Evolve IP

Evolve IP enables employees to Work Anywhere productively and securely. Our enterprise solutions seamlessly integrate collaboration & communications, digital workspaces, and contact center  all delivered from a browser on any connected device. Evolve IP's technologies free IT to focus on business innovation, not systems and infrastructure, and enable their employees to contribute even more to the enterprise -- no matter where or when they are working. Businesses that choose Evolve IP have selected a true technology partner. A company that becomes an expert extension of their IT team, an organization that listens to their needs to tailor solutions just for their business, and is responsive and engaged in every interaction.



Follow Evolve IP on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube.



Photo(s):

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Press release distributed by PRLog

SOURCE Evolve IP
"Our posture's gonna be that we're posted outside of DC, awaiting the president's orders. We hope he will give us the orders. We want him to declare an insurrection, and to call us up as the militia."

Oath Keepers founder Stewart Rhodes, in November, looking ahead to Jan. 6
NEW YORK, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- FAST Acquisition Corp. II (the "Company") announced today that holders of the units sold in the Company's initial public offering of 20,000,000 units completed on March 18, 2021 (the "offering") may elect to separately trade the shares of Class A common stock and warrants included in the units commencing on or about May 6, 2021. Any units not separated will continue to trade on the New York Stock Exchange (the "NYSE") under the symbol "FZT.U", and each of the shares of Class A common stock and warrants will separately trade on the NYSE under the symbols "FZT" and "FZT.WS," respectively. No fractional warrants will be issued upon separation of the units and only whole warrants will trade. Holders of units will need to have their brokers contact Continental Stock Transfer & Trust Company, the Company's transfer agent, in order to separate the units into shares of Class A common stock and warrants.

About FAST Acquisition Corp. II

FAST Acquisition Corp. II is the third special purpose acquisition company formed by the principals of &vest with the business purpose to effect a business combination with one or more businesses. While the Company may pursue an initial business combination with a company in any sector or geography, the Company intends to focus its search on the restaurant, hospitality, consumer, and related sectors in North America with an enterprise value of $800 million or greater. &vest is an investment platform led by founder and CEO Doug Jacob.

A registration statement relating to these securities was declared effective by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") on March 15, 2021. 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.

The offering was made only by means of a prospectus. Copies of the prospectus relating to the offering may be obtained by contacting Jefferies LLC, Attention: Equity Syndicate Prospectus Department, 520 Madison Avenue, 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10022, by telephone at (877) 821-7388 or by e-mail at [email protected].

Forward Looking Statements

This press release contains statements that constitute "forward-looking statements," including with respect to the Company's search for an initial business combination. Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous conditions, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, including those set forth in the Risk Factors section of the Company's registration statement for the initial public offering filed with the SEC. Copies are available on the SEC's website, www.sec.gov. The Company undertakes no obligation to update these statements for revisions or changes after the date of this release, except as required by law.

Fast Acquisition Corp. II Contact:

Chloe Gatta

[email protected]

SOURCE FAST Acquisition Corp.
STAMFORD, Conn., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Freepoint Commodities LLC ("Freepoint") today announced that it has closed a USD 2.63 billion revolving bank facility (the "Facility"). The Facility consists of a USD 1,709,500,000 three-year committed tranche and a USD 920,500,000 one-year uncommitted tranche. Additionally, the Facility has a USD 600 million accordion feature.

BNP Paribas Securities Corp ("BNPPSC"), MUFG Bank, Ltd. ("MUFG") and Natixis, New York Branch ("NATIXIS") are Joint Lead Arrangers and Bookrunners for the Facility. Freepoint is pleased to welcome as new Joint Lead Arranger, Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., who will join Cooperatieve Rabobank U.A., New York Branch, and Societe Generale in this capacity. BNP Paribas remains as the Administrative Agent. Co-Syndication and Co-Documentation Agents include: Cooperatieve Rabobank U.A.., New York Branch, ING Bank N.V., Societe Generale and Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Other continuing participating banks include: Credit Suisse (Switzerland) Ltd.; UBS Switzerland AG; Industrial and Commercial Bank of China Ltd., New York Branch; Bank of China, New York Branch; Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank; Deutsche Bank AG, New York Branch; Oversea-Chinese Banking Corporation Limited, New York Agency; Commonwealth Bank of Australia and HSBC Bank USA, N.A. In addition, Freepoint is delighted to announce that Mizuho Bank, Ltd. and Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation have joined the bank group for the revolving credit facility.

Simultaneously, Freepoint also extended the maturity of its USD 100 million subordinated secured credit facility, and Freepoint's immediate parent, Freepoint Commodities Holdings LLC, extended the maturity of its USD 30 million unsecured credit facility.

"Our flagship working capital facility once again was oversubscribed as Freepoint received $2.915 Billion in commitments. This not only demonstrates the ongoing support of our existing banks, but also our ability to attract new banks. This is a testament to our continued strong performance over the past several years," said David A. Messer, Freepoint's CEO. "We appreciate our lenders' sustained commitment to Freepoint, which is a clear indication of their confidence in our business model, disciplined operating philosophy and growth opportunities."

About Freepoint

Founded in 2011, Freepoint is based in Stamford, CT with over 500 employees worldwide. Freepoint is a global merchant of physical commodities and also provides physical supply services and related structured solutions.

Media Contact



Paige Thornton

RF|Binder

212-994-7554

[email protected]

SOURCE Freepoint Commodities LLC
VANCOUVER, BC, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ - Galiano Gold Inc. ("Galiano" or the "Company") (TSX: GAU) (NYSE American: GAU) advises its Annual General Meeting of shareholders ("AGM") will be held virtually on Friday June 11, 2021 at 10am PDT. Shareholders who intend to participate in the meeting online should refer to the Company's management information circular (the "Proxy Circular") for details regarding how to participate.

Materials for the AGM, including the Proxy Circular, have been filed under the Company's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and on EDGAR at www.sec.gov and are also available on the Company's website at www.galianogold.com/Investors/AGM-Materials/. Any shareholders wishing to receive paper copies of the Proxy Circular should contact Galiano at Suite 680, 1066 West Hastings Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6E 3X2, or by phone at 604-683-8193 or 1-855-246-7341 or by fax: (604) 683-8194.

In the Proxy Circular, the Company provides details of its proposal to re-elect its current slate of seven directors, reappoint KPMG LLP as auditors and authorize and approve a non-binding advisory resolution accepting the Company's approach to executive compensation.

Shareholder Questions:

Shareholders who have any questions or require assistance with voting may contact Galiano's Proxy Solicitation Agent:

Laurel Hill Advisory Group

Toll Free: 1-877-452-7184

International: +1 416-304-0211 outside Canada and the US

By Email: [email protected]

About Galiano Gold Inc.

Galiano is focused on creating a sustainable business capable of long-term value creation for its stakeholders through exploration and disciplined deployment of its financial resources. The Company currently operates and manages the Asanko Gold Mine, located in Ghana, West Africa which is jointly owned with Gold Fields Ltd. The Company is strongly committed to the highest standards for environmental management, social responsibility, and health and safety for its employees and neighbouring communities. For more information, please visit www.galianogold.com.

SOURCE Galiano Gold Inc.

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NEW YORK, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ --

Global Gate Capital acquired a light industrial portfolio located in Moorestown and Burlington Township, New Jersey, in a recapitalization with owner/operator Brennan Investment Group. The 1.1 million square foot portfolio consists of 22 buildings and is located 12 miles east of Philadelphia, predominately in the Moorestown West Corporate Center. Brennan will continue as operating partner and will be supported by The Flynn Company for property management and leasing.

Rudy Sayegh, CEO of Global Gate Capital, said: "We are pleased to complete this investment which represents our 3rd US transaction in the industrial sector in the last 20 months. We are bullish on the sector and are excited to continue to grow our portfolio."

Philip Tager, Head of US Real Estate at Global Gate Capital, said: "I have had a 25+ year business relationship with Michael Brennan and I am thrilled to be teaming up with Brennan Investment Group on this project, the first of what we hope will be many transactions pursued with Global Gate Capital."

Michael Brennan, Chairman and Managing Principal of Brennan Investment Group, said: "Brennan Investment Group is looking forward to working alongside Global Gate Capital on this portfolio. We are grateful for their trust in us as an operator."

Chris Massey, Managing Principal of Brennan Investment Group, said: "We are very excited to be partnering with Global Gate Capital on this project at a time when the southern New Jersey industrial real estate market is increasingly desirable for institutional investors. We are confident in our competitive advantages and intend to continue to provide excellent quality light industrial space to the marketplace."

Global Gate Capital is an investment and wealth management firm that invests in multiple asset classes including real estate, private equity, credit, and listed securities. Global Gate has been investing in real estate since its inception and has deployed significant AUM in the asset class. With offices in Geneva, London, New York, Dusseldorf, and Dubai, Global Gate has grown its assets under management to over $4.5bn since its founding in 2013.

Brennan Investment Group, a Chicago-based private real estate investment firm, acquires, develops, and operates industrial properties in select major metropolitan markets throughout the United States. Since 2010, Brennan Investment Group has acquired over $4 billion in industrial real estate. The company's current portfolio spans 29 states and encompasses 44 million square feet. Brennan Investment Group's management team is among the most accomplished in its industry, having invested in over 4,000 properties covering more than 60 cities throughout the United States, Canada and Europe.

Contact: Ursula Walendzewicz, [email protected]

SOURCE Brennan Investment Group, LLC
NEW YORK, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Harbor Group International, LLC ("HGI"), a privately owned international real estate investment and management firm, today announced the successful refinancing and recapitalization of 55 Broadway, a Class A, 32-story office building in New York City's Financial District. HGI refinanced the existing senior mortgage with an initial $107.7 million senior loan from an insurance company lender with a future funding component of up to $8.4 million for future leasing. New equity capital was invested in the property to retire Paramount Group Inc.'s preferred equity and to fund costs associated with significant recent leasing activity at the building.

Meridian Capital Group's Ronnie Levine, Senior Managing Director, and Ben Jacobs, Senior Vice President, provided mortgage brokerage services to HGI in connection with the refinancing of the senior loan.

55 Broadway features 356,059 square feet of office and ground floor retail space. Currently, the building is approximately 89% leased to nearly 40 office and retail tenants, with 69,000 square feet leased since January 2020. Notable full floor tenants include The Kingdom of Morocco, Bank of Communications, Syscom and Assurant, Inc.

"As the New York office market begins to recover, we believe the recapitalization of 55 Broadway will create new opportunities for the property and position it to take advantage of the improving Downtown market fundamentals," said Richard Litton, President, HGI. "Despite the impact of the pandemic on urban office assets, HGI's strategic leasing strategy continued to secure strong, long-term tenants amid external economic stress."

"It was a pleasure working again with the HGI team on this financing assignment. Their ability to drive leasing activity during a pandemic is a testament to the quality of the asset and sponsorship. This loan provides flexibility for HGI to continue implementing their business plan in order to maximize value at the asset," said Mr. Levine.

In addition to 55 Broadway, HGI owns 24 West 40th Street in Manhattan, as well as office assets throughout the U.S. and UK.

About Harbor Group International

Harbor Group International, LLC, including its affiliates, is a private real estate and real estate related investment and management firm which controls a portfolio of worldwide assets valued at $13.5 billion. HGI is headquartered in Norfolk, Virginia with offices in New York, Baltimore, Los Angeles and Tel Aviv. The company's real estate holdings include 4.3 million square feet of commercial properties and 48,000 apartment units. For additional information, please visit www.harborgroupint.com .

Media Contacts:

Morgan McGinnis

[email protected]

323.500.0939

SOURCE Harbor Group International, LLC

Related Links

https://www.harborgroupint.com


SAN DIEGO, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Himalaya Therapeutics ("Himalaya"), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on development and commercialization in Greater China of a novel class of investigational antibody therapeutics for the treatment of solid tumor cancer, which are based on the Conditionally Active Biologics ("CAB") technology platform, today announced the appointment of Howe Li, M.D., as chief medical officer.

"Dr. Li is a fantastic addition to our team. He has a depth of understanding of not only the patient, as a medical doctor, but also both global and China clinical trial design and execution" said Brian Zhang, Ph.D., CEO of Himalaya. "Dr. Li fills an absolutely critical role in our organization as we look to launch our clinical trials in Mainland China. He rounds out the executive management of Himalaya for now, and will also be instrumental as we turn our focus to establishing our Mainland office and team."

Dr. Li has a track record of successfully moving product candidates through clinical development in the U.S. and China. He is currently the CEO and founder of DeltaMed, a clinical research organization ("CRO") that specializes in pharmacovigilance, medical monitoring, medical writing, phase I study and clinical development strategy. He was previously the founder and CEO of Tigermed-IntelliPV, and the former CMO of Tigermed. In addition to his work on trials in China, he also held medical management roles at leading global pharmaceutical companies, including Quintiles, Abbott Laboratories, Sanofi Pasteur, BMS and Amylin. Dr. Li also teaches at Tsinghua Medical School, the Medical School of Shanghai Jiaotong University and YeeHong Business School. Dr. Li received his M.D. from Tongji Medical University, Peking Union Medical College, and completed postdoctoral work at the University of North Carolina, under Nobel Laureate, Oliver Smithies.

"Himalaya has a robust pipeline of product candidates that is supported by truly novel science. Bringing these to China will be a great opportunity, and I look forward to getting our trials set up so the patients can be benefit from these products," said Dr. Li.

About Himalaya Therapeutics

Himalaya is a global clinical-stage biotechnology company with operations in San Diego, California, and Hong Kong, China. Himalaya is advancing its pipeline of novel monoclonal antibody and other protein therapeutic product candidates, which are designed to have more selective targeting, greater efficacy, and more cost-efficient and predictable manufacturing than traditional antibodies, through clinical trials. Its product candidates have been developed using CAB technology, which is protected by more than 500 issued and pending patents. Himalaya has two CAB programs currently in Phase 2 clinical testing in Hong Kong and Taiwan: BA3011, a novel conditionally active AXL-targeted antibody-drug conjugate (CAB-AXL-ADC), and BA3021, a novel conditionally active ROR2-targeted antibody-drug conjugate (CAB-ROR2-ADC). Himalaya has a co-development and collaboration agreement for an investigational CAB CTLA-4 antibody, BA3071, with BeiGene Ltd. for its development, manufacturing and commercialization in Greater China.

Investor Contact:

Nicholas Desjardins

Himalaya Therapeutics

[email protected]

SOURCE Himalaya Therapeutics SEZC

Related Links

https://www.himalayatherapeutics.com


SEATTLE, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The following statement is being issued by Perkins Coie LLP regarding the Diamond Pet Food Products Settlement.

There is a Proposed Settlement in a class action lawsuit that claims Diamond Pet Foods violated state laws regarding the labeling and marketing of certain pet food products. Diamond denies the claims in this lawsuit.

WHO IS INCLUDED?

You are included in the Settlement if you live in the United States or a U.S. territory and bought qualifying grain-free pet food between March 12, 2017 and April 23, 2021. Visit the Settlement website or call the toll-free number for a complete list of products included.

WHAT DOES THIS PROPOSED SETTLEMENT PROVIDE?

If the Proposed Settlement is approved and becomes final, it will provide Benefits to Class Members. Defendant will make payments to those Class Members who file Valid Claims by submitting a Claim Form by the deadline, as well as pay for costs associated with the notice and administration of the Settlement, attorneys' fees and costs to the attorneys for the Class, and an Incentive Award to the named Plaintiffs.

HOW CAN I GET A PAYMENT?

In order to get money from the settlement, you must submit a Claim Form online at GFfoodSettlement.com or by mail by October 4, 2021. You could get up to $5.00 (without Proof of Purchase) or $10.00/purchase (with Proof of Purchase) up to $100.00.

WHAT ARE YOUR OPTIONS?

Do nothing , you will not receive money from the Settlement, but you will be bound by the decisions of the Court.

, you will not receive money from the Settlement, but you will be bound by the decisions of the Court. Exclude yourself from the Settlement. You will not be eligible to receive money, but you keep the right to sue about the claims in this lawsuit, at your own expense. You must exclude yourself by July 30, 2021 .

yourself from the Settlement. You will not be eligible to receive money, but you keep the right to sue about the claims in this lawsuit, at your own expense. You must exclude yourself by . Object to the Settlement. You can tell the court why you don't like something about the Settlement but stay in the Settlement. You must object by July 30, 2021 .

The Detailed Notice, available on the website, provides full instructions on how to Exclude or Object to the Settlement.

The Court will hold a hearing on August 20, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. in Courtroom 13016, before the Honorable Richard A. Jones, of the United States District Court for the Western District of Washington, United States Courthouse, 700 Stewart Street, Seattle, WA 98101-9906, to consider approval of the Settlement, a payment up to a total of $1,200,000 for Class Counsel. for attorneys' fees and expenses and incentive awards up to $5,000 for the four named Plaintiffs, and related issues. All motions filed by Class Counsel will be available on the Website. You may appear at the hearing, but you do not need to.

This is only a summary. More details about the Proposed Settlement, products included and instructions on how to file a claim, object, or exclude yourself are available at GFfoodSettlement.com or by calling 844-367-8809.

SOURCE Perkins Coie LLP
Hosted by StayNTouch , the webinar was moderated by Bridget Tran, CMO and CDO, The Transformation Groupe, and included guest speakers David Israel, Senior Vice President, hotelAVE; Jackie Volkart, General Manager, The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach and The Ritz-Carlton, Bal Harbour Miami; and Jeanine Conforti, Sales and Marketing Director, Canyon Ranch.

You can view the webinar here.

Some of the webinar's discussion topics included developing a '360-degree guest experience' throughout the customer's journey, along with best practices for digital content and sales and marketing initiatives  all with a strong focus on guest services.

Jackie Volkart of The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach & The Ritz-Carlton, Bal Harbour Miami has noticed that guests like to be in the loop, whether it's through social media, Trip Advisor, or Google. She believes that hospitality professionals should have their website constantly updated since we are living in uncertain times. Volkart also believes that the QR menu codes in hotel restaurants will be here to stay. She also noted that as hotels re-open and get busier, it's imperative to properly train hotel staff and continue to educate and communicate with guests.

Jeanine Conforti of Canyon Ranch shared that the number one priority right now is health and safety. Having strict COVID-19 guidelines is important not only for the guests, but also the staff. Her second priority is answering any questions guests may have. The rules and guidelines are constantly changing, so providing clear and transparent information will help instill confidence and trust between the hotel and guests.

David Israel of hotelAVE believes it's more important to communicate what you offer rather than what you don't. 70% of guest's opt-in for house cleaning, so giving guests the ability to choose how they want to be accommodated is extremely important, especially throughout the pandemic.

The speakers all agreed that pre-arrival communications programs and creating an atmosphere where guests feel comfortable is crucial. Guests want to know what restaurants are open or nearby, what activities they offer, the health and safety guidelines, etc. Providing a QR code that takes the guest to a list of health and safety guidelines would be useful and can be easily updated as rules change. Israel has found that QR codes are very successful and helpful when it comes to housekeeping.

The webinar on "Strategies to Transform Hotel Guest Experience" was sponsored by StayNTouch, an easy-to-use hotel property management system (PMS) enabling hotels to deliver an enhanced service experience, drive revenues, reduce costs, and streamline operations. To learn more about StayNTouch, please visit: https://www.stayntouch.com/

Discover more about the membership benefits of the International Luxury Hotel Association here and join our chapters and mentorship program so that you can get the support you need to advance your career and grow your business. Save $20 with the code WBSERIES20.

Written by CIIC.

About the International Luxury Hotel Association

The International Luxury Hotel Association is the luxury hospitality's preeminent association promoting, unifying and advancing the industry through insight, opinion and research.

ILHA reaches an audience of more than 500,000 hotel professionals in 90+ countries and produces LUXURY HOTELIERS Magazine, the ILHA Webinar Series and the INSPIRE SUMMITS in Europe and North America. They also run LinkedIn's largest hospitality and travel group which ranks in the top 100 of the more than 10 million professional groups on LinkedIn. Connect with us on theilha.com, hospitality and travel forum, ILHA Facebook, ILHA Instagram, ILHA Twitter, ILHA YouTube

SOURCE International Luxury Hotel Association

Related Links

http://luxuryhotelassociation.org


LAS VEGAS, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Insurvia, a Gemspring Capital portfolio company with holdings including Fiesta Insurance and Bravo General, announced that it has acquired La Familia Agency, LLC, a market-leading independent insurance agency based in Dallas, Texas.

La Familia Agency (or "LFA") specializes in providing automotive and related insurance products and services to the Hispanic community from its 67 locations across Texas and its innovative retail operations infrastructure. LFA has been founder-owned and operated since inception and will continue to be led by its original founders.

"We are excited to join forces with the La Familia Agency team and are thrilled to partner with such an innovative, fast-growing organization that complements our mission of serving the non-standard insurance market," said John Hollar, CEO of Insurvia. "LFA's expertise in company-owned retail storefronts will allow us to accelerate our national expansion and strengthen Insurvia's presence in the large and important Texas market."

"We are very excited to join an amazing team that, like us, works extremely hard to serve the Hispanic community in their local neighborhoods," said Danish Charanya, co-founder and President of La Familia Agency. "This transaction is great news for our customers and our employees, and we are excited to capitalize on the functional synergies across our businesses."

About Insurvia

Insurvia is an insurance services holding company with subsidiaries including Fiesta Insurance, a leading retail franchisor of insurance products and services with 70 franchisees operating 235 retail stores across nine states and a growing eCommerce platform, and Bravo General, an MGA with an omnichannel distribution strategy serving the automotive market. Insurvia is headquartered in Las Vegas, NV. For more information, visit www.insurvia.com.

About La Familia Agency

La Familia Agency, LLC is an independent insurance agency distributing insurance and related services through retail storefronts in Texas. Formed in 2010, the company has grown to 67 stores and over 200 employees serving the Hispanic community, primarily in Dallas-Fort Worth, Waco, and San Antonio. LFA is headquartered in Dallas, Texas. For more information, visit www.lafamiliainsurance.com

About Gemspring Capital

Gemspring Capital, a Westport, Connecticut-based private equity firm with $1.1 billion of capital under management, provides flexible capital solutions to lower middle market companies. Gemspring partners with talented management teams and takes a partnership approach to helping drive revenue growth and value creation. Target companies have up to $500 million in revenue and are in the aerospace & defense, business services, consumer services, financial and insurance services, healthcare services, industrial services, software and tech-enabled services, or specialty manufacturing sectors. For more information, visit www.gemspring.com.

CONTACT: Charles Fraas, [email protected]

SOURCE Gemspring Capital

Related Links

www.gemspring.com


BEIJING and SHANGHAI and BOSTON, May 2, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Jacobio Pharmaceuticals (1167.HK) has announced the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved company's Investigational New Drug (IND) application to develop a KRAS G12C inhibitor. IND application to the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) in China was accepted on March 17. It will be used to treat advanced solid tumors with the KRAS G12C mutation, including but not limited to non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), colorectal cancer (CRC) and other advanced solid tumors. Patient enrollment for clinical trials in the U.S. and China will begin in the second half of 2021.

JAB-21822 is Jacobio's innovative in-house small molecule anti-cancer drug, which is designed to target the KRAS G12C mutation. The global incidence of the KRAS G12C mutation in patients with NSCLC, ovarian cancer, CRC and pancreatic cancer reached approximately 295,000 in 2019. To date, there has been no approved and marketed KRAS G12C inhibitor globally.

JAB-21822 has best-in-class potential among KRAS G12C inhibitors. Internal pre-clinical head-to-head animal studies comparisons have shown JAB-21822 to have a superior pharmacokinetic (PK) profile and favorable tolerability as well as potential for a superior dosing profile in comparison with its competitors.

KRAS is the most frequently mutated oncogene in human cancers. KRAS mutations promote a variety of fatal tumors in humans and are present in more than 90% of pancreatic cancers. There are very limited effective treatment options for patients with pancreatic cancer, evidenced by the fact that only 7.2% of patients with pancreatic cancer have a 5-year overall survival rate in China. KRAS mutations are also found in CRC (40%), NSCLC (25%), thyroid cancer, ovarian cancer, and bladder cancer.

Although KRAS and its role as an oncogene was discovered as early as 30 years ago, no therapeutic agent directly targeting KRAS has been clinically approved despite decades of research. KRAS has long been considered "undruggable" for several reasons. Firstly, it is a very small-sized molecule that has a relatively smooth surface with few deep pockets for drug-binding. Secondly, because of the high picomolar affinity of KRAS towards nucleotide GTP, drugs are generally unable to reach a certain concentration to compete with GTP in binding the nucleotide binding domain to the protein.

Dr. Wayne Long, Jacobio's Vice President of Chemistry said, "The strategy of the use of allosteric inhibitors is a breakthrough of this previously "undruggable" target. Jacobio has developed the highly selective KRAS G12C inhibitor JAB-21822 based on our own allosteric inhibitor platform and an "iterative chemotype evolution" approach."

Based on the in-depth understanding of KRAS G12C, Jacobio has further discovered two inhibitors targeting KRAS G12D and KRAS G12V. The KRAS G12D inhibitor has obtained highly active and selective lead drug molecules, while KRAS G12V has also obtained multiple hits. These two inhibitors are expected to be submitted as INDs in 2022-2023 and 2023-2024, respectively. To date, there is no IND application for these two targets globally.

"KRAS G12D and KRAS G12V are two exciting programs that cement our position in the top tier of global biotech companies," said Dr. Steve Zhou, Chief Biologist and Senior Vice President of Jacobio. "The R&D of KRAS G12D inhibitors draws on our experience and expertise of the KRAS G12C inhibitor. The combination of various advantages including development experience, coupled with our in-house chemical library and focused library design, as well as small molecule drug development capabilities based on the allosteric inhibitor platform, puts us in a favorable position in the global R&D landscape of KRAS inhibitors."

Jacobio has six programs targeting the RAS pathway, including SHP2 inhibitors (upstream from the RAS pathway). Clinical studies have shown that SHP2 inhibitors may potentially be the best combination therapy partners for KRAS inhibitors. Jacobio is one of the few biotech companies in the world that has both SHP2 inhibitors and KRAS inhibitors, which brings much convenience and flexibility to the clinical trials of in-house combination therapy.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release may contain certain forward-looking statements that are, by their nature, subject to significant risks and uncertainties. The words "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect", "intend" and similar expressions, as they relate to the Company, are intended to identify certain of such forward-looking statements. The Company does not intend to update these forward-looking statements regularly.

These forward-looking statements are based on the existing beliefs, assumptions, expectations, estimates, projections and understandings of the management of the Company with respect to future events at the time these statements are made. These statements are not a guarantee of future developments and are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, some of which are beyond the Company's control and are difficult to predict. Consequently, actual results may differ materially from information contained in the forward-looking statements as a result of future changes or developments in our business, the Company's competitive environment and political, economic, legal and social conditions in China.

The Company, the Directors and the employees of the Company assume (a) no obligation to correct or update the forward-looking statements contained in this site; and (b) no liability in the event that any of the forward-looking statements does not materialise or turn out to be incorrect.

About Jacobio

Jacobio is committed to providing more products and solutions to people's health. Our mission is to provide compelling innovations for creating a pipeline of life-changing medicines. Our vision is to become a global leader recognized for our impact in drug R&D together with our partners. The company's R&D centers are located in Beijing and MA, with a platform and expertise in developing allosteric inhibitors against protein tyrosine phosphatase, KRAS and transcriptional factors.

Media Contact

Bonnie Wang

+86 010 56315466

[email protected]

Investor Contact

Juanita Yu

[email protected]

SOURCE Jacobio
SOUTHFIELD, Mich., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The Mike Morse Law Firm is proud to announce Michigan Lawyers Weekly has named Janieasha Freelove-Sewell to its 2021 class of "Up & Coming Lawyers." This class of just 25 consists of Michigan lawyers who have established a name for themselves in their first 10 years of practice by displaying ambition, drive, and accomplishments that have made them stand out amongst their peers.

Janieasha earned her juris doctor from Michigan State University College of Law in 2017 and her B.A., in English and Spanish, from Georgetown University in 2008. She joined the Mike Morse Law Firm team in 2017 as a personal injury attorney. She vigorously represents clients who have been involved in motor vehicle crashes, hit and runs, and dog bite incidents. She advises clients regarding their auto insurance benefits and their rights under the no-fault law.

"I am so incredibly grateful and appreciative of this award. It serves as a reminder to me to always stay humble and continue to work for equity and justice for all," said Janieasha when asked about her recognition.

Prior to becoming a lawyer, Janieasha was a teacher with the national organization Teach for America and taught students from pre-K to adults for over ten years. As a lawyer, she continues to mentor and tutor students, as well as volunteer at College and Career Day events at schools throughout Metro Detroit. Janieasha is passionate about advocating for clients during court hearings by telling the story of how their life has been affected due to their injuries.

Outside of her work, Janieasha is a member of the Young Lawyers Section of the State Bar of Michigan, an active alumni of Michigan State University College of Law, and a member of her local Georgetown University alumni group called Georgetown Club of Detroit.

"Janieasha goes above and beyond, both in the office and the courtroom, every day, and the firm is proud to celebrate this well-deserved recognition with her," said Mike Morse, attorney and founder of the Mike Morse Law Firm.

In order to honor Janieasha and the rest of the "Up & Coming Lawyers'' class of 2021, MiLW will host a recognition awards ceremony to be held on June 10th from 6 - 7pm. In addition to this ceremony, the honorees will be profiled in a special section appearing in the June 14th issue of Michigan Lawyers Weekly.

About Mike Morse Law Firm

Since 1995, the Mike Morse Law Firm has been protecting the rights of Michigan auto accident and injury victims. They are Michigan's largest personal injury firm, specializing in auto, truck, pedestrian and motorcycle accidents as well as Social Security disability claims. Since opening their doors over 25 years ago, the firm has served over 25,000 clients and won over one billion dollars for them. Mike Morse Law Firm handles cases throughout the state of Michigan.

SOURCE Mike Morse Law Firm
OMAHA, Neb., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Jelecos, a technology consulting company and leading AWS Advanced Tier Consulting Partner, today announced a strategic growth investment made by Crest Rock Partners ("Crest Rock"), a Denver-based private equity firm. Layer 7 Capital arranged the transaction between Crest Rock Partners and Jelecos. Financial terms of the investment were not disclosed.

Founded in 2000 in Omaha, NE, with additional offices in Overland Park, KS and St. Louis, MO, Jelecos provides digital transformation, compliance-driven migrations, cloud-first application development, cloud management, and DevOps-as-a-Service. Jelecos is a highly respected leader in the AWS ecosystem and prides itself on building long-term relationships, consistently producing superior results, and passionately driving innovative solutions.

"We are thrilled to partner with the team at Crest Rock, who bring complementary expertise, sound guidance, and capital as we continue along our trajectory. Crest Rock's backing will allow Jelecos to invest in growing our team of AWS certified technical experts, adding additional AWS competencies, and further capitalizing on additional AWS market opportunities," said Leon Thomas, CEO of Jelecos. "The strategic partnership with Crest Rock enables us to expand our service offerings, enter new geographies, and emphasize our customer-first approach."

The investment by Crest Rock will accelerate strategic initiatives and growth opportunities as Jelecos continues to deliver lasting value for clients, partners, and shareholders.

"The Jelecos team has built a top tier organization centered around a singular goal  providing leading technology solutions to their customers," commented Jeff Carnes, Crest Rock co-founder and Partner. "As hybrid and public cloud adoption continues to accelerate, we believe that the Company's deep technical expertise, range of AWS competencies, and passion for customer service will continue to be a strong differentiator in the market. We are excited to partner with Jelecos in accelerating their growth through investments in people, process, and products, all for the benefit of their existing and future customers."

SOURCE Jelecos

Related Links

https://www.jelecos.com


WASHINGTON, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Mark Geyer, director of NASA's Johnson Space Center, is stepping down from his position leading the center to focus more time on his health and family in light of a cancer diagnosis.

"Mark has had an exceptional impact on this agency, leading the nation's key human spaceflight programs for decades. Under Mark's leadership, Johnson has moved the United States into a new era of human space exploration," said NASA Administrator Sen. Bill Nelson. "We're fortunate to continue to have Mark and his decades of expertise serving the agency in his new role as senior advisor to the associate administrator."

"It has been my honor to lead the Johnson Space Center team," Geyer said. "JSC is a group of extremely talented professionals all dedicated to the mission of expanding human exploration of the solar system. The diverse scope of work they accomplished and the challenges they overcame inspired me every day. I have been so blessed to work here."

Before being named to lead Johnson in May 2018, Geyer's career has included key positions in the International Space Station Program, serving as program manager of the Orion Program, and supporting the agency as deputy associate administrator in the Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters in Washington. He is the recipient of the NASA Distinguished Service Medal, and Meritorious and Distinguished Presidential Rank Awards.

Vanessa Wyche, who has served as deputy director of Johnson since August 2018, will serve as acting director. Before becoming deputy director, Wyche, a 31-year NASA veteran, served as assistant center director, director of the center's Exploration Integration and Science Directorate, worked in the executive office of the NASA administrator, served as a flight manager for multiple space shuttle missions, and has led other center-level technical and program organizations.

For more about NASA's Johnson Space Center, visit:

https://www.nasa.gov/centers/johnson

SOURCE NASA

Related Links

http://www.nasa.gov


DALLAS, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Kimberly-Clark today announced it is awarding 2021 Bright Futures Scholarships worth $960,000 to 48 college-bound students in recognition of their academic achievements and leadership roles in their schools and communities.

Now in its 28th year, the Bright Futures program provides scholarship grants to children of Kimberly-Clark employees across North America for full-time students attending accredited colleges and universities. The program is administered by the Kimberly-Clark Foundation and since its inception has awarded nearly $44 million in scholarships to more than 2,200 students. (PRNewsfoto/Kimberly-Clark Corporation)

Established in 1993, the Bright Futures program is administered by the Kimberly-Clark Foundation and provides scholarship grants worth up to $20,000, or $5,000 per school year, to children of Kimberly-Clark employees throughout North America. Recipients are selected based on their academic performance, extracurricular activities, work experience and community involvement. Since its inception, the program has awarded over $45 million in scholarships to 2,250 students for full-time study at accredited colleges and universities.

"This year's scholarship recipients have demonstrated an impressive commitment to academic excellence and community service," said Jenny Lewis, vice president of the Kimberly-Clark Foundation. "We are proud to support these students as they pursue their higher education, and we wish them the best for their continued success."

The 2021 class of Bright Futures Scholars will attend leading colleges and universities including Baylor University, Purdue University, Vanderbilt University and the University of Wisconsin. Past scholarship recipients have gone on to pursue successful careers in medicine, education, the armed forces and engineering.

Click here for more information on this year's award recipients.

About the Kimberly-Clark Foundation

Established in 1952, the Kimberly-Clark Foundation is the charitable arm of Kimberly-Clark Corporation and is dedicated to supporting global causes that create lasting social change. supporting and strengthening families around the world. Together with funding from the corporation and employees, its primary focus is on social and community investments that increase access to sanitation, help women and children thrive, and empower women and girls.

About Kimberly-Clark

Kimberly-Clark (NYSE: KMB) and its trusted brands are an indispensable part of life for people in more than 175 countries. Fueled by ingenuity, creativity, and an understanding of people's most essential needs, we create products that help individuals experience more of what's important to them. Our portfolio of brands, including Huggies, Kleenex, Scott, Kotex, Cottonelle, Poise, Depend, Andrex, Pull-Ups, GoodNites, Intimus, Neve, Plenitud, Sweety, Softex, Viva and WypAll, hold the No. 1 or No. 2 share position in 80 countries. We use sustainable practices that support a healthy planet, build stronger communities, and ensure our business thrives for decades to come. To keep up with the latest news and to learn more about the company's nearly 150-year history of innovation, visit kimberly-clark.com.

[KMB-C]

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/648588/Kimberly_Clark_RGB_Blue_Logo.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1168538/Bright_Futures_Scholarship.jpg

SOURCE Kimberly-Clark Corporation

Related Links

http://www.kimberly-clark.com


ATLANTA, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Lingo Communications ("Lingo") a leading global Cloud/UC and managed service provider, today announced that it recently completed the enhancement of its ICE back-office platform. This upgrade also enables Lingo to implement future enhancements to the customer and sales partner ICE-Portal.

ICE back-office platform is a best-in-class, fully integrated, billing, network management and workforce management platform that has been developed by Lingo (including its predecessor companies) over the past 20 years. It provides vital data and tools that Lingo back-office staff use to efficiently manage the billing, network management and workforce management aspects of our global business. This latest upgrade includes enhancements to the tax, commissions, PCI compliance, credit card/ACH processing and trading partner connectivity functionality.

ICE-Portal is a best-in-class web-portal that provides Lingo business customers and sales partners with a single pane of glass through which they can monitor, manage, and analyze virtually every aspect of their services and activities in real-time.

"Because we're constantly enhancing our ICE back-office platform, our customers and sales partners have the peace of mind they need to focus on their business," said Vincent M. Oddo, CEO of Lingo. "Our value-added approach to everything we do is evident by our relentless innovation and industry-leading services."

"Our internal cutting-edge software development capabilities complement our large North American Cloud/UC, Long Distance and Fiber networks, so our staff, business customers and sales partners have a full suite of management and analytical tools right at their fingertips," said Joseph Haines, VP Operations and Engineering at Lingo.

About Lingo

Lingo is a leading global Cloud/UC and managed service provider to the Business, Carrier and Consumer markets. Lingo provides modern, efficient, IP-based voice, data and managed services to customers around the globe. Lingo has an expansive IP-based network, experienced leadership and support staff with exceptional 24/7/365 customer care. For additional information about Lingo, please visit lingo.com.

Press Contact

Christopher Ramsey

VP Sales & Marketing

[email protected]

Related Images

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Lingo Logo

Lingo Communications Logo

SOURCE Lingo Communications
"I'm extremely excited that industry leading professionals of their caliber have joined Lockton," says Phil Pierce, COO of Lockton Pacific North. "While we have enjoyed a strong PE and M&A presence on the West Coast for a number of years, they will continue to raise the bar in terms of excellence for us. I know that Jordan, Daniel and Andrew will bring tremendous energy and expertise to Lockton, and immeasurable value to our clients."

Jordan Burbach joins Lockton after serving as a Senior Vice President of Marsh's Global Private Equity and Mergers & Acquisitions Practice for more than seven years. During his tenure with Marsh, he advised on 300+ M&A projects and worked directly with PE firms providing insurance and benefits due diligence, R&W insurance, strategic risk management advice and transactional resources.

He developed his technical expertise in underwriting while working at Zurich Insurance, where he was the underwriting manager responsible for the Western US. He started his 14-year career in insurance at Marsh as an insurance placement broker.

In his new role as Senior Vice President, Producer at Lockton, Burbach says he is focused on building the #1 private equity insurance services team that people know and trust. "Private equity firms face constant challenges and time pressures. If you're not adaptive and agile, you become stagnant with an old model that is inconsistent with where the markets have gone," explains Burbach. "Lockton's platform gives us the autonomy to change the process, adapt more quickly and evolve products and services to meet their expectations. Clients first will be our exclusive focus."

Also joining Lockton as Senior Vice President, Producer is Daniel Denham. He brings nearly 13 years in insurance working at some of the largest brokerages including HUB International and Marsh, where he specialized on pre-deal insurance diligence for Private Equity clients. While at Marsh, he grew his client base from two to fifteen equity funds in two years, working on more than 75 projects during that time.

"PE firms rely on our expertise, thoroughness, transparency and consistency," adds Denham. "Cultivating relationships takes time and I've been successful at building trust with clients. That's why Lockton is a good fit. Rather than handing off parts of my clients' business to other teams, Lockton's structure and entrepreneurial culture gives us the ability to service PE firms and their portfolio companies with one consistent team, ensuring a standard of service and delivery that builds trust."

Andrew Szot joins Lockton as Vice President, Client Services Consultant specializing in private equity insurance services. His expertise is grounded in over a decade advising clients on more than 300 M&A projects. Szot most recently served as Vice President in Marsh's Private Equity and Mergers & Acquisitions Practice, where he focused on new target diligence and portfolio company advisory work for insurance and employee benefits. He gained his technical expertise by underwriting property, casualty, professional, and cyber liability coverages while at Zurich Insurance.

"Having a background in technical underwriting allows me to not only understand what clients need from the M&A perspective, but to better liaise with the insurance marketplace and deliver products and services tailored to each client's needs," adds Szot. "Together with Jordan and Daniel, we will leverage our experience to provide more foresight and proactive preparation, saving clients valuable time and energy."

"Clients familiar with Lockton know firsthand of our level of expertise, innovative solutions and commitment to providing the highest level of customer service," explains Nate Mundy, COO of Lockton's Pacific region. "This strong addition to our existing deep team is evidence of our industry stance as the leading insurance brokerage in the private equity space."

Lockton's rapidly growing Pacific region encompasses nine offices throughout the Western United States including Portland, Sonoma, San Francisco, San Jose, Sacramento, Encino, Los Angeles, Irvine and San Diego.

Burbach and Szot are based in Lockton's San Francisco office located at Three Embarcadero Center Suite 600, San Francisco, CA 94111. They can be reached by calling (415) 568-4000. Denham is based in Lockton's Los Angeles office located at 777 South Figueroa, 52nd Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90017, and can be reached at (213) 689-0065.

About Lockton

What makes Lockton stand apart is also what makes us better: independence. Lockton's private ownership empowers its 8,000 Associates doing business in over 125 countries to focus solely on clients' risk and insurance needs. With expertise that reaches around the globe, Lockton delivers the deep understanding needed to accomplish remarkable results.

For 12 consecutive years, Business Insurance magazine has recognized Lockton as a "Best Place to Work in Insurance." In 2019, Lockton was named a top 50 company to work for in London by Best Companies. Most recently, Lockton was named among the 2021 Best Managed Companies by Deloitte and the Wall Street Journal, a program that recognizes excellence and honors private companies for their strategy, execution, culture, and financials.

SOURCE Lockton Companies
FRANKFURT, Germany, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] and the Lufthansa Group today announced the airline group will continue its fleet modernization with a new order for five 787-9 Dreamliners. The incremental order further supports the group's efforts to reduce complexity in its long-haul fleet and improve overall environmental performance by introducing more fuel-efficient widebody jets.

"We are very pleased that five more Boeing 787-9s will accelerate the modernization of our long-haul fleet. With these ultra-modern, fuel-efficient aircraft, we send a strong signal for environmental responsibility within the Lufthansa Group. Furthermore we will reduce our operating costs and provide our guests a state-of-the-art travel experience," said Dr. Detlef Kayser, Member of the Executive Board Deutsche Lufthansa AG, Chief Operations Officer.

The Lufthansa Group placed its initial order for 20 787-9s in 2019. The new purchase agreement takes the group's order book to 25 787-9s.

The second member of the Dreamliner widebody family, the 787-9 can fly up to 20% more passengers and around 25% more cargo while reducing fuel use and emissions by up to 25% compared to the airplanes it replaces. Since entering service in 2011, the 787 family's fuel efficiency, flexibility and range have enabled airlines to open more than 300 new nonstop routes and reduce carbon emissions by 80 billion pounds.

Built with lightweight composite materials and powered by advanced engines and a suite of environment-friendly technologies, the 787 family has an airport-noise footprint that is 60% smaller than the previous generation of 767 airplanes, making it ideal for Lufthansa Group airport communities.

"The Lufthansa Group has been navigating an extremely challenging market and positioning itself for the recovery ahead and the eventual return to growth. We are honored that they have once again selected Boeing's widebody airplane family to power their future fleet," said Ihssane Mounir, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales & Marketing. "The 787's superior fuel efficiency and range provide the Lufthansa Group the flexibility to profitably operate the airplane across its route network."

As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. As a top U.S. exporter, the company leverages the talents of a global supplier base to advance economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. Boeing's diverse team is committed to innovating for the future and living the company's core values of safety, quality and integrity. Learn more at www.boeing.com.

Contact:

Keelan Morris

Boeing Communications (London)

+44(0)208 235 5664

[email protected]

Jessica Kowal

Boeing Communications (Seattle)

+1 206 660 6849

[email protected]

SOURCE Boeing

Related Links

http://www.boeing.com


NEWARK, N.J., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Mars Wrigley took legal action today in both the United States and Canada to send the illicit cannabis industry a strong signal to stop illegally using the company's brands and products. The lawsuit is intended to stop the illegal and dangerous misuse of its world-famous trademarks in the marketing and sale of THC-infused edibles, which closely resemble Mars Wrigley's genuine products such as SKITTLES and STARBURST. Mars Wrigley does not manufacture or sell any products containing THC.

Like other consumer packaged goods brands, Mars Wrigley brands are being used without authorization to create fake THC packaging, which is sold empty and then filled with THC-infused candies to market and sell THC products that look substantially like genuine candies.

Mars Wrigley strongly condemns the use of popular candy brands in the marketing and sale of THC products, which is grossly deceptive and irresponsible. The use of Mars Wrigley's brands in this manner is unauthorized, inappropriate and must cease, especially to protect children from mistakenly ingesting these unlawful THC products.

Mars Wrigley filed an additional lawsuit in the U.S. against a company selling a marijuana strain and related products under the name Zkittlez, bearing an extreme likeness to a Mars Wrigley brand. Mars Wrigley's legal actions in the U.S. and Canada are a testament to its commitment to stop the distribution of these harmful THC products.

About Mars, Incorporated

For more than a century, Mars, Incorporated has been driven by the belief that the world we want tomorrow starts with how we do business today. This idea is at the center of who we have always been as a global, family-owned business. Today, Mars is transforming, innovating and evolving in ways that affirm our commitment to making a positive impact on the world around us. Across our diverse and expanding portfolio of confectionery, food, and petcare products and services, we employ 133,000 dedicated Associates who are all moving in the same direction: forward. With $40 billion in annual sales, we produce some of the world's best-loved brands including DOVE, EXTRA, M&M's, MILKY WAY, SNICKERS, TWIX, ORBIT, PEDIGREE, ROYAL CANIN, SKITTLES, BEN'S ORIGINAL, WHISKAS, COCOAVIA, and 5; and take care of half of the world's pets through our pet health services AniCura, Banfield Pet Hospitals, BluePearl, Linnaeus, Pet Partners, and VCA.

We know we can only be truly successful if our partners and the communities in which we operate prosper as well. The Mars Five Principles  Quality, Responsibility, Mutuality, Efficiency and Freedom  inspire our Associates to take action every day to help create a world tomorrow in which the planet, its people and pets can thrive. For more information about Mars, please visit www.mars.com.

Join us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube.

For media inquiries:

Mars Wrigley

Caitlin Kemper

(201) 841-8350

[email protected]

SOURCE Mars Wrigley
BAYONNE, N.J., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- As the owner of the Bayonne Medical Center real estate, currently leased to CarePoint Health, Hudson Regional Hospital not only objects to the absurd notion that eminent domain is a legal or appropriate mechanism to foreclose on our property, we view as preposterous Mayor Jimmy Davis' support of its takeover by an inexperienced operator that has made inadequate disclosures of its financial capacity and whose certificate of need application has been stopped in its tracks at the Department of Health.

CarePoint Health, which admits that it is organizationally and financially troubled in its own Department of Health filings, has hand-picked BMC Hospital LLC as its successor to operate Bayonne Medical Center despite Hudson Regional Hospital's clear position as the most rational management solution. BMC Hospital LLC is a shell entity that was founded by the owners of Surgicore, a for-profit entity that runs a string of surgery centers but have never operated an acute care facility. Yet Surgicore's owners have attracted the support of Mayor Jimmy Davis to the point that he is asking taxpayers for $100 million to fund an ill-advised boondoggle where the property is taken by eminent domain and leased to Surgicore's owners at a discount. For more complete details visit www.hudsonregionalhospital.com/bayonnetragedy/.

Hudson Regional Hospital has gone to great expense to defend itself in frivolous legal actions designed to impede our aspirations to operate Bayonne Medical Center, in an entirely privately-funded acquisition that is clearly the most advantageous future for the hospital. Over the past several days, Hudson Regional Hospital has entered into discussions with municipal officials and representatives of CarePoint and Surgicore, only to become even more alarmed over their vision for healthcare in Bayonne.

As a result we are commencing a plan to engage the residents of Bayonne in a dialogue that reveals threats to their healthcare system and a profound waste of taxpayer money. Among other activity, we have issued a letter to the Bayonne City Council expressing our dismay over the concept that eminent domain is an appropriate vehicle to foreclose on our property, especially when BMC Hospital LLC's filings indicate that they expect to operate their first foray into acute care as a for-profit enterprise that receives a discounted rent from City of Bayonne, whose taxpayers will bear the cost of the bonds issued to foreclose on the site, and who will guarantee payment on the bonds if BMC Hospital LLC fails.

For many months now, Hudson Regional Hospital, the most esteemed acute care facility in Hudson County, has expressed its interest in operating Bayonne Medical Center with the same quality services as we operate Hudson Regional Hospital. We provide care in-network to 95% of all New Jersey residents and will save jobs which would be in jeopardy under poor management, and we require zero expenditure of public money to do so. As we have stated before, in our best interests as the property owner, we do not believe that BMC Hospital LLC is qualified to operate Bayonne Medical Center and we are presently in court to terminate their deal and to evict CarePoint from the premises for material lapses under its lease.

We have made our position abundantly clear to the Department of Health and all local officials. But beyond our interest as a property owner, our commitment to Hudson County's healthcare marketplace demands that we take a protective posture in this scenario. The public's understanding and involvement in the process has become unavoidably necessary and while it has never been our intention to disrupt Bayonne's political process, at this point we are left with no choice but to take preventative action. The consequences from this ill-conceived, highly suspect proposed transaction cannot be allowed to proceed unabated. We, like the residents of Bayonne, want to ensure that Bayonne Medical Center is always high performing, and will back up this pledge to the community when we are able to operate the hospital in addition to owning the land.

For more information, visit http://www.hudsonregionalhospital.com/bayonnetragedy or click here for copies of the letter being posted to the web site and mailed today to all Bayonne residents.

About Hudson Regional Hospital

Hudson Regional Hospital acquired its facility from Meadowlands Hospital in January 2018, with the mission to build a healthier community by providing exceptional care for all Hudson County residents through a significant investment in new technology including the Institute of Robotic Surgery featuring the Da Vinci XI Robotic System, ExcelsiusGPS and the Mazor Robotic Guidance System and access to more physician groups including some of the best physicians in the NYC-metro area.

Hudson Regional Hospital's ER team provides around-the-clock comprehensive emergency care services that include short wait times, EMS/Ambulance On-Site 24/7, a fully-equipped EMS Lounge, 24/7 Access to Specialty Physicians and a multi-lingual staff.

In 2020 Hudson Regional Hospital was designated the Hudson County COVID-19 Testing Site by the County Executive's office and became the first site in New Jersey to provide organized by-appointment only COVID testing for Hudson County residents and emergency workers. Hudson Regional Hospital has been named Castle Connolly Medical NJ's Best Top Hospitals and its Institute for Robotic Surgery has received the Surgical Review Corporation's Center for Excellence award.

SOURCE Hudson Regional Hospital
OKOTOKS, AB, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ - (TSX: MTL) Mullen Group Ltd. ("Mullen Group", "We", "Our" and/or the "Corporation") announced today the closing of the previously announced acquisition of International Warehousing & Distribution Inc. ("IWD"). IWD is based in Mississauga, Ontario and provides customs sufferance warehousing services, air import/export deliveries along with full container deliveries in the Greater Toronto Area ("GTA"). IWD utilizes a dedicated group of contractors that provide pick-up and delivery service in the GTA.

About Mullen Group Ltd.

Mullen Group is a logistics company that owns a network of independently operated businesses. The Corporation is recognized as one of the leading suppliers of trucking and logistics services in Canada providing a wide range of service offerings including less-than-truckload, truckload, warehousing, logistics, transload, oversized and specialized hauling transportation. In addition, we provide a diverse set of specialized services related to the energy, mining, forestry and construction industries in western Canada, including water management, fluid hauling and environmental reclamation. The corporate office provides the capital and financial expertise, legal support, technology and systems support, shared services and strategic planning to its independent businesses.

Mullen Group is a publicly traded corporation listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol "MTL". Additional information is available on our website at www.mullen-group.com or on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities legislation about the acquisition of IWD. The forward-looking information is based on certain assumptions made by us in light of our experience and perception of current and historical conditions. Although Mullen Group believes that the forward-looking information contained in this news release is 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 as actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied.

Forward-looking information in this news release is identified by the words "will" and "anticipates" and includes suggestions of future outcomes, including about the future expansion of our business in eastern Canada.

Developing forward-looking information involves reliance on a number of assumptions and considerations of certain risks and uncertainties, some of which are specific to Mullen Group and others that apply to the industry generally. The assumptions on which our forward-looking information is based include other risks and uncertainties described from time to time in the filings Mullen Group makes with securities regulatory authorities.

The risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual results to differ materially, include, but are not limited to: risks associated with the trucking/logistics business; the overall economy; and the risks relating to the current and potential adverse impacts of the novel coronavirus pandemic.

The forward-looking information contained herein is made as of the date of this news release and Mullen Group disclaims any intent or obligation to update publicly any such forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, other than as required by applicable securities laws.

Contact Information

Mr. Murray K. Mullen - Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer and President

Mr. P. Stephen Clark - Chief Financial Officer

Mr. Richard J. Maloney - Senior Vice President

Ms. Joanna K. Scott - Corporate Secretary & Vice President, Corporate Services

121A - 31 Southridge Drive

Okotoks, Alberta, Canada T1S 2N3

Telephone: 403-995-5200

Fax: 403-995-5296

SOURCE Mullen Group Ltd.

Related Links

www.mullen-group.com


A Place for All Conservatives to Speak Their Mind.
WASHINGTON, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- NASA's SpaceX Crew-1 astronauts will answer questions at 3:45 p.m. EDT Thursday, May 6, about their historic mission on the International Space Station and return to Earth. The news conference will air live on NASA Television, the NASA app, and the agency's website.

NASA astronauts Michael Hopkins, Victor Glover, and Shannon Walker, along with Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Soichi Noguchi, will participate in the first media event following their mission and splashdown.

This will be a virtual event with no media present, due to the safety restrictions related to the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Reporters who wish to participate by telephone must call the newsroom at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston at 281-483-5111 to RSVP no later than 5 p.m. Wednesday, May 5. Those following the briefing on social media may ask questions using the hashtag #AskNASA.

SpaceX's Crew Dragon, named Resilience, carrying Hopkins, Glover, Walker, and Noguchi, splashed down at 2:56 a.m. May 2 under parachutes in the Gulf of Mexico, off the coast of Panama City, Florida, and was successfully recovered by SpaceX. After returning to shore, the astronauts immediately flew back to Houston, where they were greeted by their families and colleagues.

The successful launch of the agency's SpaceX Crew-1 in November 2020 was the first flight of a NASA-certified commercial human spacecraft system in history. Crew-1 is the first of six crewed missions NASA and SpaceX will fly as part of the agency's Commercial Crew Program, which worked with the U.S. aerospace industry to return launches with astronauts on American rockets and spacecraft from American soil.

Crew-1 astronauts worked on a number of experiments as part of Expedition 64 and Expedition 65 to the International Space Station, including tissue chips that mimic the structure and function of human organs to understand the role of microgravity on human health and diseases, and translate those findings to improve human health on Earth. Astronauts also grew radishes in different types of light and soils as part of ongoing efforts to produce food in space, and tested a new system to remove heat from spacesuits.

Michael Hopkins was commander of the Crew Dragon spacecraft and the Crew-1 mission. He was responsible for all phases of flight, from launch to re-entry. Selected as a NASA astronaut in 2009, Hopkins now has spent a total of 335 days in space during two spaceflights. He conducted three spacewalks during this mission for a total of five in his career totaling 32 hours and 1 minute. Born in Lebanon, Missouri, Hopkins grew up on a farm outside Richland, Missouri. He has a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering from the University of Illinois, and a master's degree in aerospace engineering from Stanford University. Before joining NASA, Hopkins was a flight test engineer with the U.S. Air Force.

Victor Glover was the pilot of the Crew Dragon spacecraft and second-in-command for the mission. Glover was responsible for spacecraft systems and performance. Selected as an astronaut in 2013, this was his first spaceflight, during which he conducted four spacewalks totaling 26 hours, 7 minutes. The California native holds a Bachelor of Science degree in general engineering from California Polytechnic State University, a Master of Science degree in flight test engineering and a master's degree in military operational art and science from Air University, as well as a Master of Science degree in systems engineering from the Naval Postgraduate School. Glover is a naval aviator and was a test pilot in the F/A18 Hornet, Super Hornet, and EA18G Growler aircraft.

Shannon Walker was a mission specialist for Crew-1. As a mission specialist, she worked closely with the commander and pilot to monitor the spacecraft during the dynamic launch and re-entry phases of flight. She also was responsible for monitoring timelines, telemetry, and consumables during the mission. Selected as a NASA astronaut in 2004, this was her second spaceflight, bringing her total time in space to 331 days. Walker first launched to the International Space Station aboard the Russian Soyuz TMA-19 spacecraft as the co-pilot, and spent 161 days aboard the orbiting laboratory. A Houston native, Walker received a Bachelor of Arts degree in physics from Rice University, as well as a Master of Science degree and a doctorate in space physics, both from Rice University, in 1992 and 1993, respectively.

Soichi Noguchi also was a mission specialist for Crew-1, working with the commander and pilot to monitor the spacecraft during the dynamic launch and re-entry phases of flight, and keeping watch on timelines, telemetry, and consumables. Noguchi was selected as an astronaut candidate by the National Space Development Agency of Japan (NASDA, currently the JAXA) in May 1996. Noguchi is now a veteran of three spaceflights and has spent a total of 345 days in space. During STS-114 in 2005, he became the first Japanese astronaut to perform a spacewalk outside the space station. He has performed a total of four spacewalks, accumulating 27 hours and 1 minute of spacewalking time. Noguchi launched aboard a Soyuz spacecraft in 2009, to return to the station as a long-duration crew member. The Crew Dragon is the third spacecraft Noguchi has flown to the orbiting laboratory.

Follow updates on the Commercial Crew Program at:

https://blogs.nasa.gov/commercialcrew/

Follow Hopkins on Twitter, Glover on Twitter and Instagram, and Noguchi on Twitter.

Download b-roll and additional video content at:

http://images.nasa.gov

Get the latest space station news, images and features on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.

-end-

SOURCE NASA

Related Links

http://www.nasa.gov


SAN FRANCISCO, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The global natural extracts market size is expected to reach 18.95 billion by 2028, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. It is expected to expand at a CAGR of 8.9% from 2021 to 2028. The increasing consumer awareness regarding the benefits of natural products, coupled with the changing lifestyles and the growing consumer disposal income, is fueling the market growth.

The COVID-19 spread across geographies impacted the market by causing supply chain disruptions and industrial shutdowns in 2020. However, it created a significant demand for nutraceutical and pharmaceutical supplements and functional food and beverage products that supported the market growth.

Key suggestions from the report:

The dried crops product segment held the largest revenue share of almost 40.0% in 2020 and is expected to dominate the market over the forecast period due to the rising demand for dried crops in various end-use industries

The essential oils product segment is expected to witness considerable growth from 2021 to 2028 owing to their applications in flavors, fragrances, and aromatherapy

In terms of revenue, the nutraceuticals application segment is anticipated to grow at the fastest rate of 9.4% over the forecast period

Manufacturers focus on R&D initiatives to offer new and better products to the customers. Companies develop partnerships with other manufacturers to manufacture potential products to meet the specific demands of the customers

The market has been characterized as a fragmented market as it includes several players operating in the market at the global and regional levels

Read 161 page research report with ToC on "Natural Extracts Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Product (Essential Oils, Oleoresins, Herbal Extracts, Natural Colors, Dried Crops), By Application, By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2021  2028"

The pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals application segments are likely to offer prominent opportunities as the demand for naturally healthy and nutritional supplements is increasing. Immunity-boosting supplements are expected to favor the market growth, especially post the COVID-19 impact. Essential oils are expected to witness considerable growth in the forecast period owing to their demand in the flavors and fragrances application. Global adoption of aromatherapy as a stress-releasing and relaxing activity is likely to boost product sales in the near future. Europe accounted for the largest revenue share in 2020.

The market is likely to witness lucrative opportunities from other applications, such as cleaning formulations, disinfectants, and mosquito repellents. Lemon, clove, peppermint, bergamot, cinnamon, cilantro, orange, lavender, lime, and melaleuca are some of the popularly used essential oils in cleaning and home applications. These oils help break down toxins, clean and purify the air, support healthy respiratory function, and relieve seasonal discomfort. Tea tree and eucalyptus essential oils are widely used for bathroom cleaning applications owing to their antifungal and antibacterial properties, which are effective in controlling the spread of staph germs, influenza, and pneumonia. Thyme oil is used in kitchen cleaners owing to its antiseptic and antibacterial properties, thus enabling the control of bacteria.

The highest natural extracts demand has been witnessed in Europe and North America from the food and beverage and personal care and cosmetics application segments, mainly in the form of flavors and fragrances. The expanding markets of India and China in the Asia Pacific region are likely to promote market growth in terms of raw material availability, economical manufacturing, and emerging application markets in the countries.

Grand View Research has segmented the global natural extracts market on the basis of product, application, and region:

Natural Extracts Product Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million, 2017 - 2028)

Essential Oils



Turmeric Oil





Ginger Oil





Peppermint Oil





Davana Oil





Cedarwood





Cornmint





Eucalyptus





Lemon





Lime





Orange





Vetiver





Tea Tree





Patchouli Oil



Oleoresins



Paprika





Black Pepper





Capsicum





Turmeric





Ginger





Garlic





Onion





Others



Herbal Extracts



Capsaicin





95% Curcumin





Ashwagandha





Kale



Natural Colors



Paprika





Natural Yellow Color





Annatto Color





Anthocyanin Color



Dried Crops



Dried Chili Whole





Dried Ginger Whole





Dried Turmeric Whole

Natural Extracts Application Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million, 2017 - 2028)

Personal Care & Cosmetics



Food & Beverage



Animal Feed



Pharmaceuticals



Nutraceuticals



Others

Natural Extracts Regional Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million, 2017 - 2028)

North America



U.S.





Canada





Mexico



Europe



Germany





U.K.





France





Italy





Spain



Asia Pacific



China





India





Japan





Vietnam





Malaysia



Central & South America



Brazil





Argentina



Middle East & Africa

&

Saudi Arabia





South Africa

List of Key Players of Natural Extracts Market

Symrise

PT. Indesso Aroma

Kancor

Synthite Industries Ltd.

VedaOils.com

Vidya Herbs

Plant Lipids

Ransom Naturals Ltd.

India Essential Oils

A.G. Industries

Flavex Naturextrakte GmbH

Arjuna Natural Pvt. Ltd.

Firmenich SA

Robertet Group

Sami Spices

Falcon

Blue Sky Botanics

doTERRA

Naturex

OmniActive Health Technologies

Find more research reports on Renewable Chemicals Industry, by Grand View Research:

Essential Oils Market  Global essential oils market demand was estimated at 247.08 kilotons in 2020 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.5% from 2020 to 2027.

Oleoresin Market  Global oleoresin market size was estimated at USD 1.44 billion in 2018 and is expected to register a CAGR of 4.7% over the forecast period

in 2018 and is expected to register a CAGR of 4.7% over the forecast period Aloe Vera Extract Market  Global aloe Vera extract market size was valued at USD 1.60 billion in 2018 and is anticipated to expand at a CAGR of 7.6% during the forecast period.

Gain access to Grand View Compass, our BI enabled intuitive market research database of 10,000+ reports

About Grand View Research

Grand View Research, U.S.-based market research and consulting company, provides syndicated as well as customized research reports and consulting services. Registered in California and headquartered in San Francisco, the company comprises over 425 analysts and consultants, adding more than 1200 market research reports to its vast database each year. These reports offer in-depth analysis on 46 industries across 25 major countries worldwide. With the help of an interactive market intelligence platform, Grand View Research helps Fortune 500 companies and renowned academic institutes understand the global and regional business environment and gauge the opportunities that lie ahead.

Contact:

Sherry James

Corporate Sales Specialist, USA

Grand View Research, Inc.

Phone: 1-415-349-0058

Toll Free: 1-888-202-9519

Email: [email protected]

Web: https://www.grandviewresearch.com

Follow Us: LinkedIn | Twitter

SOURCE Grand View Research, Inc.
NCGM has introduced COVID-19 molecular testing to detect active SARS CoV-2 virus infections that is of immediate public health priority in North America, along with genome scale testing, such as Exome Sequencing , which is applicable across a variety of Rare Genetic Disease Testing (Inherited Diseases) from Newborn Screening to Oncology to Pediatric Care Setting.

Dr. GSK Velu, Chairman & Managing Director of Neuberg Diagnostics, said, "NCGM, USA will act as the laboratory and hub, aiding our operations in the North America. Through leveraging our collaborative efforts across our organization in India, South Africa, and UAE, and with our external partners, we aim to develop and provide the best-in-class affordable tests. As they are deployed, the accessibility and affordability of the tests will reduce disparity and benefit individuals across the board."

Dr Sandip Shah, Executive Director Neuberg Diagnostics, said "NCGM, USA Sequencing services will be supported by in-house bioinformatics team and cutting-edge technologies which has been developed inhouse, and along with reputed partners. It will also support genetic research by leveraging our own extensive infrastructure in India, South Africa, and UAE."

Dr. Andy Bhattacharjee, CEO, NCGM, USA, said, "The setup has comprehensive Genomic testing facility allowing large-scale clinical and research projects. With capacity to conduct more than 400 variety of tests, the center will conduct large-scale clinical diagnostics and genomics projects with greater sample volumes at an unprecedented depth and coverage of the genome. Currently we are offering Covid RT-PCR Testing Services at our NC Lab with sample collection facilities in association with FedEx to help fight the pandemic in USA."

For more information about NCGM, USA, please visit - http://www.ncgm.us/

SOURCE Neuberg Diagnostics

Related Links

http://www.ncgm.us/


NORTH MIAMI BEACH, Fla., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The City Commission of North Miami Beach has voted to name Northeast 159th Street to honor Miami-Dade County Commissioner Jean Monestime and his lifetime of public service to the community. The Commission voted unanimously to name the road from West Dixie Highway to Northeast 8th Avenue "Jean Monestime Street," making it one of the longest roads named after a Haitian-American in South Florida. Commissioner Michael Joseph, Esq. was the prime sponsor of this resolution, with Commissioner McKenzie Fleurimond as co-sponsor.

Commissioner Jean Monestime, Miami Dade County District 2, honored as the City of North Miami Beach names Northeast 159th Street after him.

"The City wanted to recognize Commissioner Monestime for his leadership, vision, and longtime support of our community's quality of life. May is Haitian Heritage Month, which makes the timing of this honor especially meaningful," Commissioner Joseph said.

"Commissioner Monestime has been a wonderful mentor and a role model of public service," Commissioner Fleurimond added.

Commissioner Jean Monestime represents District 2 on the Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners, which includes parts of North Miami Beach. Monestime is the first Haitian-American to serve as a Miami-Dade County commissioner and the first to chair the commission. Monestime has served as a trailblazer for Haitian American leaders in South Florida and a tireless advocate for the City of North Miami Beach. He was instrumental in securing needed funds for public parks and capital projects in the City, including Father Gerard Jean-Juste Community Center at Oak Grove Park.

The resolution passed by the NMB Commission also urges the Miami-Dade County Commission to co-designate the remaining county road section of 159th Street, from Northeast 8th Avenue to Northwest 6th Avenue, in solidarity with the municipal resolution. The co-designation awaits the confirmation of the Miami-Dade County Commission before becoming final.

About the City of North Miami Beach

The City of North Miami Beach and its employees are dedicated to providing its citizens a full range of quality and efficient services and will work to create a better environment in which to live, work, and play. To learn more about the City of North Miami Beach, please visit:

www.citynmb.com | Twitter | Facebook

SOURCE City of North Miami Beach

Related Links

http://www.citynmb.com


ST. LOUIS, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Following an extensive search process, Peabody's Board of Directors today announced the appointment of James (Jim) Grech to the position of President and Chief Executive Officer effective June 1, 2021.

"On behalf of the full board, I'd like to welcome Jim to Peabody. Jim's extensive operational, commercial and financial experience in mining, utilities and other fuel sources will be instrumental to Peabody's success moving forward," said Bob Malone, Chairman of the Board. "I'd also like to thank Glenn for his dedicated service during a very difficult time for the company and for his commitment to facilitate an orderly transition."

Jim has over 30 years of experience in the coal and natural resources industries, most recently serving as Chief Executive Officer of Wolverine Fuels, a U.S. thermal coal producer and marketer. Prior to joining Wolverine Fuels, Jim served as President of Nexus Gas Transmission as well as the Chief Commercial Officer and Executive Vice President of Consol Energy. Jim holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Lawrence Technological University and an MBA from the University of Michigan.

"I look forward to joining Peabody's talented workforce and shaping the company's strategic path forward to maximize value for all stakeholders," said Jim Grech. "I'm impressed by the significant strides the company has made during a difficult period and am excited to further improve the competitiveness of Peabody."

Pursuant to the previously announced employment transition agreement, Glenn Kellow, current President and Chief Executive Officer of Peabody, will step down from his position upon the effective date of Jim's appointment. In addition, should Glenn be re-elected as a director at the company's upcoming Annual Meeting of Shareholders scheduled for May 6, 2021, the board currently expects to appoint Jim to replace Glenn and serve as a board member until the next Annual Meeting contemporaneously at the effective date of his employment. Jim is also expected to be appointed to serve on the Executive Committee of the Board.

Peabody (NYSE: BTU) is a leading coal producer, providing essential products to fuel baseload electricity for emerging and developed countries and create the steel needed to build foundational infrastructure. Our commitment to sustainability underpins our activities today and helps to shape our strategy for the future. For further information, visit PeabodyEnergy.com.

Contact:

Alice Tharenos

314.342.7890

SOURCE Peabody

Related Links

http://www.PeabodyEnergy.com


'Primera' is directed by Vee Bravo, a Chilean exiled from Chile in 1981, at the age of 7. Bravo moved to New York City, but remained connected to his roots. In 2019, Bravo saw Chile in the New York Times; a story about high school students jumping turnstiles in the subway, protesting an increased fare. The Chilean government quickly unleashed the military on demonstrators resulting in brutal incidents. Bravo viewed the government's response as eerily reminiscent of the deadly tactics used by General Pinochet's dictatorship in the 70s and 80s.

Primera' the film that tells the story of two parents-turned activists who are leading Chile's revolutionary path to a new constitution

"Back then, we didn't have the power of the internet to share what was happening in Chile. Now, we do. I needed to bring this story to the world stage," Bravo said.

Bravo immediately flew to Chile to document human rights abuses, protests, and the political atmosphere. Upon his arrival, a recorded ten million Chileans had taken to the streets demanding a new constitution. Primera tells the story of four parents-turned activists leading Chile's revolutionary path. Bravo developed relationships with Anji, Camila, Felipe, and Male, who were pastry chefs, street musicians, welders, and attorneys. These every-day citizens became front line movement leaders after witnessing violent actions from the military towards protestors. They each assembled their neighbors and hit the streets to stand in solidarity.

"Primera," produced by New York-based filmmakers Kevin Lopez and Catherine Gund, tells the raw and hopeful story of how courage and resilience led to a country's story of victory. The voices of 80% of Chileans that screamed for a new constitution were heard, and Chile is currently in the process of voting for the authors of the new constitution. Primera highlight's themes of women-led movements, social and structural change, and mutual aid.

"Primera honors the legacy of the main characters. I learned nothing about Latin culture in high school. We have been invisible in this country. I wanted to ensure we are in the history books for the next generations. I told the story, with the help of a team that was almost entirely Chilean, so the generations to come can see the everyday people that fought victoriously for a new constitution and a new democracy," said Bravo.

TICKETS

Primera is a 96-minute documentary film, which premieres in June at the Tribeca Film Festival. The film will also have its online world premiere on June 12 at 6:00 pm (EST) on the Tribeca Virtual Film Festival platform.

Download Media Assets Here

https://spaces.hightail.com/space/4GQD7cmDeD

For more information, please contact

Adriana Aristizabal, Brian Rashid at iVoice Communications, 917.833.0103

[email protected] , [email protected]

SOURCE Primera Film
ATLANTA, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Mammoth Holdings, LLC ("Mammoth"), an Atlanta-based conveyor car wash operator, announced that PureMagic Carwash ("PureMagic"), a seven-unit express conveyor car wash operator with three additional units in development in Knoxville, TN has agreed to join Mammoth. PureMagic's founders, Jim and Teri Rooney, each chose to invest a significant amount of their proceeds into Mammoth's equity.

Gary Dennis, Mammoth's co-founder and CEO, explained, "Jim Rooney is one of the most talented operators in the car wash industry and the dominant brand in his market. He and Teri [Rooney] are high-integrity, high-quality people, and we're honored and excited they've chosen to become partners in the Mammoth family of brands." He added, "Jim will become a senior vice president on Mammoth's executive team where we intend to stay out of his way - allowing him to continue driving strong growth in the region."

Jim Rooney, PureMagic's co-founder, stated, "Teri [Rooney] and I had several opportunities to position our company for growth outside the Knoxville MSA, yet Mammoth's team kept distinguishing themselves and made the choice easy. I've known Gary Dennis, Marcus Kittrell, and others on the team for years. I trust these people and know they are focused on doing right by others and achieving great results for their companies." Rooney added, "Their team-oriented leadership style combined with the treatment we experienced throughout this process gave us confidence we were aligning our company with other like-minded, people-focused leaders. I look forward to a long and productive relationship with Mammoth."

Amplify Car Wash Advisors provided sell side advisory services on the transaction.

Mammoth is the first car wash acquisition platform formed by industry-insiders and is the 7th largest conveyor car wash operator in the United States according to Commercial Plus's Top 100 list. Mammoth is customer-focused operationally and operator-focused in its approach to acquisitions and seeks to be the partner-of-choice for car wash operators who desire liquidity, growth capital, and a tax-deferred equity investment opportunity. Mammoth's multi-brand portfolio includes Marc-1, Wash Me Fast, Swifty, Ultra, Finish Line, Wiggy Wash, Shine On, Pit Stop, Lulu's, Ollie's, and now PureMagic, among others. Mammoth has significant growth capital at its disposal and is actively seeking acquisitions and development opportunities.

In October 2018, Mammoth partnered with Red Dog Equity LLC, an Atlanta-based private equity firm, which, through its partnership with Tom Pritzker's family business interests (advised by The Pritzker Organization), provides the equity for Mammoth's corporate development initiatives. Monroe Capital provides Mammoth's debt financing.

About Mammoth Holdings

Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, Mammoth Holdings operates 63 conveyor car washes under the PureMagic, Marc-1, QuickWash Express, Ultra, Wash Me Fast, Wiggy Wash, Pals, Finish Line, Shine On, Lulu's, Ollie's, PitStop, and Swifty brands in Georgia, Alabama, Kentucky, Illinois, Utah, South Carolina, Mississippi, Louisiana, Indiana, and Tennessee. Mammoth was founded by Gary Dennis and Chip Hackett in 2002. To learn more, please visit one of our locations or see us online at: www.mammothholdings.com.

About PureMagic

PureMagic currently operates seven high volume express conveyor car washes in the greater Knoxville market, including two double tunnels, a flat belt interior tunnel, and the country's first Peco polish tunnel. PureMagic has three express conveyor car washes in development in Oak Ridge, Powell, and Karns, Tennessee. PureMagic was founded by Knoxville locals, Teri and Jim Rooney, in 2003, and the PureMagic brand was established in 2016. To learn more, please visit any PureMagic location or see them online at www.puremagiccarwash.com.

About Red Dog Equity LLC

Red Dog Equity LLCTM is a private equity firm that invests in lower middle-market companies poised for strong growth in partnership with driven, entrepreneurial business leaders ("Red Dogs"). To learn more, please visit: www.reddogequity.com.

About The Pritzker Organization

The Pritzker Organization is the merchant bank for the business interests of the Tom Pritzker family. Additional information can be found at www.pritzkerorg.com.

About Amplify Car Wash Advisors

Amplify Car Wash Advisors is a full-service car wash advisory firm founded by industry veterans, Jeff Pavone and Bill Martin to guide sellers through critical business decisions including mergers and acquisitions & capital advisory. For more information, please visit https://amplifywash.com/.

SOURCE Mammoth Holdings
OKLAHOMA CITY, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Riley Exploration Permian, Inc. (NYSE American: REPX) ("Riley Permian" or the "Company"), plans to release fiscal second quarter 2021 financial and operating results on May 11, 2021 after the U.S. financial markets close.

In connection with the earnings release, Riley Permian management will host a conference call for investors and analysts on Wednesday, May 12, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. CT to discuss the Company's results and to host a Q&A session. Interested parties are invited to participate by calling:

U.S./Canada Toll Free, 844-965-3268

International, +1 639-491-2298

Conference ID number 3883784

An updated company presentation, which will include certain items to be discussed on the call, will be posted prior to the call on the Company's website (www.rileypermian.com).

A replay of the call will be available until May 26, 2021 by calling:

U.S./Canada Toll Free, 800-585-8367

International, +1 416-621-4642

Conference ID number 3883784

About Riley Exploration Permian, Inc.

Riley Permian is an independent oil and natural gas company focused on steadily growing its reserves, production and cash flow per share through the acquisition, exploration, development and production of oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids in the Permian Basin. For more information please visit www.rileypermian.com.

Investor Contact:

Philip Riley

405-438-0126

[email protected]

SOURCE Riley Exploration Permian, Inc.
SaaStr Annual, the world's largest non-vendor B2B software conference, today announced its 2021 program for Sept. 27-29. Tweet this

"Each year, SaaStr brings together the very best leaders in the SaaS, B2B and Cloud industry. We've brought together our community of executive leaders and rising startups since the first Annual in 2015, and are thrilled to be back to hosting this event as an in-person conference this year," said SaaStr CEO and Founder, Jason Lemkin. "SaaStr was founded on the basis of bringing the SaaS community together, and we've put together what we believe are industry-leading health & safety guidelines in order for us to do so together again in 2021."

The SaaStr Annual will be the first major business meeting to be held in-person in San Mateo County. SaaStr has been working closely in conjunction with San Mateo county officials and the San Mateo County Event Center, to ensure all those attending in-person will feel safe and comfortable to do so. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the San Mateo County Event Center served the community as an integral resource to fight the virus. More than 25,000 COVID-19 tests have been administered at SMEC and to date, more than 90,000 vaccines have been given on site.

"Covid has had a profound and long term impact on the Meeting and Events Industry," John Hutar, President and CEO at San Mateo County/ Silicon Valley Convention & Visitors Bureau said. "As case rates continue to drop in our region and vaccinations increase, the SaaStr Annual conference scheduled for September 27-29 is proof that we are returning to more normal times."

"The San Mateo County Event Center has a long standing tradition of hosting live tech-based events in the heart of Silicon Valley," said Dana Stoehr, CEO of the San Mateo County Event Center. "After more than a year and a half without hosting large-scale in person events, we are excited to welcome the SaaStr Annual 2021 Conference to the event center in the safest and most responsible way possible."

All three organizations: SaaStr, San Mateo County/ Silicon Valley Convention and Visitors Bureau, and the San Mateo County Event Center have been collaborating to set a path for a large scale meeting of this size to take place.

SaaStr as the organizer of Annual event will expect all attendees, speakers and sponsoring companies to adhere to its health & safety protocols including:

Vaccine requirements for all in-person attendees . SaaStr will be implementing a proof of vaccination system to verify vaccinated status amongst those in attendance. Additionally, in accordance with California's blueprint and guidelines for re-opening, SaaStr will have up to 5,000 attendees per day.

. SaaStr will be implementing a proof of vaccination system to verify vaccinated status amongst those in attendance. Additionally, in accordance with blueprint and guidelines for re-opening, SaaStr will have up to 5,000 attendees per day. Temperature checks and secondary rapid COVID testing each day of the event . Everyone attending SaaStr Annual will be required to undergo a temperature check prior to entry. SaaStr will employ various mechanisms to temperature-screen attendees, including passive scanning of all attendees prior to entry to the venue each day. Anyone with a temperature above 100.4 Fahrenheit will not be permitted to attend. Where useful in conjunction with vaccine certifications, rapid COVID testing will also be used to promote a safe gathering.

. Everyone attending SaaStr Annual will be required to undergo a temperature check prior to entry. SaaStr will employ various mechanisms to temperature-screen attendees, including passive scanning of all attendees prior to entry to the venue each day. Anyone with a temperature above 100.4 Fahrenheit will not be permitted to attend. Where useful in conjunction with vaccine certifications, rapid COVID testing will also be used to promote a safe gathering. Outdoor Gathering. The majority of the SaaStr Annual event will take place outside on the external grounds of the San Mateo County Event Center. Any indoor activations and activities will be governed by the use of acceptable face coverings, such as masks.

The majority of the SaaStr Annual event will take place outside on the external grounds of the San Mateo County Event Center. Any indoor activations and activities will be governed by the use of acceptable face coverings, such as masks. Increased sanitization and hand washing . SaaStr and the San Mateo County Event Center will implement increased hand sanitation stations and hand washing stations. Those in attendance will be expected to frequently wash and sanitize their hands.

. SaaStr and the San Mateo County Event Center will implement increased hand sanitation stations and hand washing stations. Those in attendance will be expected to frequently wash and sanitize their hands. Physical distancing. In addition to hosting the majority of the event outside to promote a greater comfortability amongst attendees and promote free air flow, SaaStr has adjusted the event's layouts and guidelines to promote physical distancing between attendees. Floor and distance markers will be instituted to help attendees maintain a safe distance. The fairgrounds itself extends across a spacious 48 acres, and Annual will spread attendees across the grounds.

Speakers for the multi-day event include Jennifer Tejada, CEO at PagerDuty, Anjali Sud, CEO at Vimeo, Ali Ghodsi, CEO at Databricks, Ariel Cohen, CEO of TripActions, Olivier Pomel, CEO of Datadog, Stephanie Buscemi, CMO of Confluent, Sara Varni Bright, CMO of Twilio, Lakshmi Hanspal, Global Chief Security Officer of Box, and many others.

SaaStr already has more than 100 partners on-board to exhibit during the Annual conference.

To sign up for the SaaStr Annual conference, tickets and exhibiting sponsorship information are available online at saastrannual.com.

About SaaStr

SaaStr is the world's largest community of SaaS executives, founders and entrepreneurs. Our mission is to share the best learnings, insights and practices around building and scaling SaaS and Cloud businesses. Founded in 2012 by serial enterprise entrepreneur Jason M. Lemkin, SaaStr has grown into a social community of more than 500,000 SaaS founders and executives with over 3,000,000 monthly views, and two major industry conferences. SaaStr's goal is to help every SaaS entrepreneur get from $0 to $100M ARR with less stress. Learn more at SaaStr.com.

For media inquiries or more information, contact [email protected].

About the San Mateo Event Center:

For the past year, the San Mateo Event Center has been unable to host most events, but instead played a vital role in protecting our health care workers and most vulnerable populations by service as a COVID-19 testing site, operations hub and supply center, 250-bed temporary overflow hospital, and vaccine distribution center for the San Francisco Bay Area. To date, the Event Center has administered 250,000 COVID-19 tests and vaccinated more than 90,000 individuals. This June, the Event Center will welcome back the San Mateo County Fair which makes its return after remaining closed in 2020 due to the pandemic.

SOURCE SaaStr

Related Links

https://www.saastr.com/


SAO PAULO, May 2, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Companhia de Saneamento Basico do Estado de Sao Paulo  Sabesp ("Company" or "Sabesp") in compliance with the provisions of Article 157, Paragraph 4 of Law 6,404/76 and the provisions of CVM Instruction 358/02, informs its shareholders and the market in general that we did not partner with Igua Saneamento S.A. ("Igua"), winner of the auction to explore block 2 of the concession of the Companhia Estadual de Aguas e Esgotos do Rio de Janeiro (CEDAE), held on April 30, 2021. However, under the terms of the memorandum of understanding signed with Igua, we have an option to integrate the SPV that holds the block 2 concession, with a minority position and at no cost to Sabesp, except for the required capitalizations from shareholders in order to be entitled to the obligations of the future concessionaire, in case Sabesp decides to exercise this option.

Sabesp will keep the market informed of any developments on the subject matter of this Material Fact.

IR Contacts:

Mario Arruda Sampaio  (55 11) 3388-8664 ([email protected])

Angela Beatriz Airoldi  (55 11) 3388-8793 ([email protected])

SOURCE Sabesp

Related Links

http://www.sabesp.com.br


SAN FRANCISCO, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Today the San Francisco Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, a non-profit animal welfare organization, filed a First Amendment lawsuit against the California Veterinary Medical Board, challenging the limitations on veterinarians' ability and right to use telemedicine to speak about animal patients' health with pet owners. At present, the law forbids veterinarians from speaking to owners about an animal's health over the phone or internet  unless they have first met in person.

The lawsuit claims that, by restricting veterinarians from offering advice to clients over the phone or through a virtual setting, this law violates a veterinarian's and pet owner's right under the First Amendment to free speech and negatively impacts animal welfare across the state.

"With a growing pet population, it is the San Francisco SPCA's top priority to ensure access to veterinary care for all animals in California, said Brandy Kuentzel, General Counsel at the San Francisco SPCA. "By limiting telemedicine, this law is restricting equitable access to animal care among California's diverse people and geographic regions."

Many states, including California, loosened veterinary telemedicine restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic. Veterinarians in Ontario, Canada have used the kind of telemedicine the lawsuit seeks for nearly three years successfully.

"The California Veterinary Medical Board is suggesting they don't trust veterinarians that they licensed to make sound decisions for animals," said Kuentzel. "The law not only restricts veterinarians and pet owners' constitutional right to free speech, it also restricts a pet's access to veterinary care."

The lawsuit requests that veterinarians be allowed to engage in telemedicine based on their judgment and training.

"People can use telemedicine for themselves and their children, so why not for their pets?" asked Kuentzel. "Telemedicine can be a vital tool to improve the lives of pets and the people who love them."

For more information, please reach out to Jordan Wilson at [email protected].

About the San Francisco SPCA

The San Francisco SPCA is an independent, community-supported, non-profit animal welfare organization dedicated to saving, protecting and providing immediate care for cats and dogs who are homeless, ill or in need of an advocate. The San Francisco SPCA also works long-term to educate the community and improve the quality of life for animals and their human companions. The organization does not receive government funding and is not affiliated with any national organization.

The San Francisco SPCA offers volunteer opportunities to care for shelter dogs and cats, assist veterinary and shelter staff, enrich the lives of people in the community by fostering unowned animals, and offering animal-assisted therapy.

For more information about the San Francisco SPCA, please call (415) 554-3000 or visit sfspca.org.

Contact:

Jordan Wilson

Lighthouse Public Affairs

(415) 828-8653

[email protected]

SOURCE San Francisco SPCA

Related Links

https://www.sfspca.org


James' new role includes driving multiple initiatives to connect critical post-incarceration resources to those who need it most. With more than 15-years of reentry and criminal justice reform experience, her extensive knowledge of the post-incarceration space will help the company identify the technologies and resources necessary to expand the organization's commitment to promoting better reentry outcomes, which serves as a key pillar of its multi-year transformation agenda.

"More than 2.3 million Americans are incarcerated each year and up to 95 percent of those are eventually released back into society, yet re-entry programs and resources are painfully underfunded and often unavailable for those who need them the most," said Yusef Jackson, Senior Executive and Advisor at Aventiv Technologies, parent company of Securus Technologies. "If we want to see change in re-entry outcomes and recidivism rates, we need to make change both inside our corrections facilities and outside in our communities. We are excited for Alisha to establish and lead the Post-Incarceration Business Unit at Securus, helping us expand our reform efforts and better serve those who are incarcerated with the resources they need to make a smooth, successful transition back into society."

James brings extensive experience assisting government and private entities with criminal justice reform measures focused on reentry, pretrial, probation and parole. One of her main focuses will be scaling programs to ensure as many formerly incarcerated individuals as possible are served and collaborating with leading executives of shared service departments across the company to improve business practices.

"When Americans are released from prison, they are often not equipped with the resources they need to succeed as they re-enter their communities, perpetuating the cycle of incarceration," said Alisha James, Senior Vice President and General Manager at Aventiv Technologies, parent company of Securus Technologies. "That is why I have devoted my career to serving this population and assisting the public and private sector with critical criminal justice reform and reentry initiatives. I look forward to expanding my work and joining an organization that is dedicated to bettering the lives of the currently and formerly incarcerated."

James is the founder and CEO of QwickTouch, a company that creates pathways for seamless re-entry and successful completion of community supervision by utilizing state-of-the-art technology. She also serves as principal consultant and CEO of James Group Consulting, a firm focused on leadership, strategic planning and criminal justice related initiatives. Previously, James oversaw and managed operations of the Community Supervision division for the Tennessee Department of Corrections. She has been widely recognized as an expert in her field, receiving the Top 40 Under 40 in Law Enforcement award from the International Chiefs of Police Association in 2018. She currently sits on the Association of Women Executives in Corrections and American Probation and Parole Association boards.

ABOUT SECURUS TECHNOLOGIES

Headquartered in Dallas, Texas, Securus Technologies, a subsidiary of Aventiv Technologies, serves more than 3,450 public safety, law enforcement and corrections agencies and over 1,100,000 incarcerated individuals across North America. The Aventiv organization is committed to providing emergency response, incident management, public information, investigation, biometric analysis, communication, information management, incarcerated self-service, and monitoring products and services in order to make our world a safer place to live. For more information, please visit www.Aventiv.com. Aventiv is a portfolio company of Platinum Equity. Founded in 1995 by Tom Gores, Platinum Equity is a global investment firm with a portfolio of approximately 40 operating companies that serve customers around the world.



SOURCE Securus Technologies
NEW YORK, May 2, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Champignon Brands Inc. ("Champignon" or the "Company") (OTCMKTS: SHRMF). Such investors are advised to contact Robert S. Willoughby at [email protected] or 888-476-6529, ext. 7980.

The investigation concerns whether Champignon and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.

[Click here for information about joining the class action]

On February 17, 2021, Champignon announced that "the Company has determined to withdraw and refile its condensed interim consolidated financial statements and management's discussion & analysis ('MD&A') for the three and six month periods ended March 31, 2020". The Company advised investors that "[f]or the three and six month periods ended March 31, 2020, the Company previously recognized intangible assets in connection with the acquisitions of Artisan Growers Ltd., Novo Formulations Ltd. and Tassili Life Sciences Corp. (the 'Acquisitions') that aggregated approximately $12 million," but that subsequently "management determined that the financial statements needed to be restated to correct the accounting for the Acquisitions as the assets do not meet the definition of intangible assets for the purposes of international financial reporting standards and as result will be recorded as transaction costs in the Company's statement of loss and comprehensive loss." The Company also announced that "it was determined that a shareholder and contracted consultant (the 'Consultant') of the Company was a related party with respect to the Acquisitions."

On this news, Champignon's stock price fell roughly $0.08 per share, or 10.78% to close at $0.69 per share on February 17, 2021.

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

www.pomerantzlaw.com


NEW YORK, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ --

If you own Meredith 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/MDP/

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 LLP is investigating possible breaches of fiduciary duty and other violations of law by the board of directors of Meredith Corporation ("Meredith" or the "Company") (NYSE: MDP) in connection with the proposed acquisition of the Company's Local Media Group business by Gray Television, Inc. (NYSE: GTN) and subsequent spin-out transaction. Under the terms of the merger agreement, Meredith will sell its Local Media Group business to GTN for $2.7 billion in cash. Meredith's National Media Group portfolio will be spun out to shareholders as a standalone publicly traded company retaining the Meredith Corporation name, with shareholders receiving cash consideration per share of approximately $14.50 and 1-for-1 equity share in the post-close Meredith company.

WeissLaw LLP is investigating whether Meredith's board acted in the best interest of Meredith's public shareholders in agreeing to the proposed transaction, whether the proposed merger consideration adequately compensates Meredith's shareholders, and whether all information regarding the process undertaken by the board and the valuation of the transaction will be fully and fairly disclosed to Meredith's public shareholders.

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 partnership between St. Elizabeth's Medical Center and the Boston University School of Medicine is an important step forward in the evolution of high-quality, community-based care," said Harry Bane , North Region President of Steward Health Care. "Steward Health Care has always been committed to championing the best in health care for patients in the communities where they live and work. Through this partnership, we are able to open access to academic-based, tertiary-level care to patients in communities across Eastern Massachusetts and beyond."

"I am very pleased with the new affiliation between St. Elizabeth's Medical Center and our Medical School," Boston University President Robert A. Brown said. "The commitment by Steward Health Care to enhance St. Elizabeth's as an academic medical center aligns well with our goals in medical education and clinical research."

The new partnership between St. Elizabeth's Medical Center and Boston University School of Medicine  two nationally ranked institutions  expands medical education programs at the hospital and gives additional resources to physicians, including teaching opportunities and broader research collaboration. As a result of the partnership, the hospital will be rebranded as "St. Elizabeth's Medical Center, A Boston University Teaching Hospital."

"Boston University School of Medicine very much values its affiliation with St. Elizabeth's Medical Center and wants to expand our programs there. The agreement with St. Elizabeth's will expand not only the number of Boston University School of Medicine medical students, but also those working to become physician assistants, mental health and genetics counselors, who will do clinical rotations at St. Elizabeth's Medical Center, a hospital committed to quality education that they can get to easily," said Karen Antman, M.D., Boston University Medical Campus Provost and Dean of the School of Medicine. "The education of future clinicians requires hands-on patient care experiences, small-group or even one-on-one teaching. Ideally each student is part of the team that cares for a number of patients, with increasing levels of responsibility under close supervision. This new arrangement with St. Elizabeth's will help us achieve that objective."

St. Elizabeth's Medical Center has made continued investment in community care in recent years. It recently opened its doors to a new, state-of-the-art, 10 bed intensive care unit (ICU) and a hybrid operating room to enhance vascular surgery capabilities. It is also investing $100 million in new facilities and infrastructure improvements. Today's partnership announcement promises to continued investment in services available to the community.

"As a physician-led organization, Steward is committed to excellence in medical education and training the next generation of physician leaders," said Michael Callum, M.D., President of Steward Medical Group, Executive Vice President for Physician Services, and a Boston University School of Medicine Graduate. "Our partnership with Boston University School of Medicine is the latest example of Steward investing in our local communities, as St. Elizabeth's serves as a top destination for patients throughout Eastern Massachusetts who need highly specialized care at a sustainable price. St. Elizabeth's programs of excellence rival the quality of other academic medical centers  but at a better value to patients, payors and employers."

The specialized care available at St. Elizabeth's Medical Center includes a number of recent firsts. The hospital recently became the first facility in New England to offer the Pritikin ICR Cardiac Rehabilitation Program and last year was the first in the region to implant a new device known as "the world's smallest pacemaker."

As a result of its investments and focus on clinical care, St. Elizabeth's Medical Center has attracted a growing number of renown physicians that have contributed greatly to the level of care offered to patients. In fact, more than 45 of the hospital's physicians and affiliates were named 2021 Top Doctors in Boston Magazine's annual Boston Top Doctors awards.

St. Elizabeth's Medical Center is part of Steward Health Care, which operates 34 hospitals across the United States, 11 of which are teaching hospitals.

About St. Elizabeth's Medical Center

St. Elizabeth's Medical Center, a Boston University Teaching Hospital, offers patients access to some of Boston's most respected physicians and advanced treatments for a full-range of medical specialties, including family medicine, cardiovascular care, women and infants' health, cancer care, neurology care, and orthopedics. The 308-bed tertiary care facility is part of Steward Health Care.

About Steward Health Care

Steward Health Care's physician-owned and -led business model was built to unlock access to the highest-quality care at a sustainable cost, committed to providing personalized, ongoing medical services that positively impact patients' physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing.

Founded in 2010 by Ralph de la Torre, M.D., Steward Health Care is the largest physician-owned health care network with more than 5,500 providers and 43,000 health care professionals empowering the health and wellness journey of 12.3 million patients a year through its extensive global network of hospitals, urgent care centers, skilled nursing facilities and substantial behavioral health services.

Based in Dallas, Steward currently operates 39 hospitals worldwide, including 34 across Arizona (4), Arkansas (1), Florida (3), Louisiana (1), Massachusetts (10), Ohio (2), Pennsylvania (1), Texas (7) and Utah (5), as well as five internationally in Malta (2) and Colombia (3).

For more information, visit www.steward.org.

SOURCE Steward Health Care

Related Links

http://www.steward.org


Staff Zones Continues to Grow! Tweet this

Costa DeLuca, Staff Zone Vice President, has had a long-standing relationship with Lee Winder, the owner of Advanced Temporaries, Inc. "He has always been considered good competition in the Virginia market and was known in the industry for operating a good business with honesty and integrity. Because of our business relationship, Lee wanted to give Staff Zone first shot at the acquisition. Of course, knowing that he ran a solid organization, we jumped at the opportunity to expand our Constructing Lives commitment in both of these cities. His mix of business in both of these markets will complement Staff Zone well and we welcomed the opportunity. We were able to put together a winning strategy for both of our companies."

Staff Zone specializes in meeting the blue-collar staffing needs of the construction, light industrial and special events industries. Since 2004, they have cultivated Best in Class procedures that bridge workers with jobs. By doing this, they are consistently Constructing Lives by bringing economic and social improvements to the people and their communities in which they are located. All Staff Zone laborers are e-verified, ACA protected, and fully insured. Staff Zone is proud to be WBE certified and a HUB vendor, which benefits its clientele in government projects.

Contact Staff Zone for all of your labor needs or job opportunities. For more information and for a complete list of locations, visit their website at https://staffzone.com/

SOURCE Staff Zone

Related Links

staffzone.com


Subaru of America, Inc. today reported 61,389 vehicle sales for April 2021, the company's best-ever April sales and a 100.5 percent increase compared to April 2020 when the coronavirus pandemic impacted the global economy at large. The automaker also reported year-to-date sales of 221,815, a 37.6 percent gain compared with the same period in 2020.

"Our retailers showed their desire by delivering the best-ever April in the history of Subaru with an increase of 100.5 percent," said Thomas J. Doll, President and CEO of Subaru of America, Inc. "As Spring car buyers look for the ideal vehicle to carry them through their warm weather adventures, our commitment to offering the safest, most reliable and family-friendly vehicles on the market makes Subaru their top choice."

All carlines saw gains in April 2021 which marked the twelfth consecutive month of 40,000+ vehicle sales for Subaru. Forester was the top performer by volume for the month with 19,452 sales, an increase of 106.3 percent over prior year and its best-ever April. Crosstrek and WRX/STI sales were notably strong as each carline achieved its best April ever. Crosstrek posted a 180.7 increase, while WRX/STI posted an increase of 133 percent compared to April 2020. Also, in April, the automaker celebrated the sale of the eleven-millionth Subaru vehicle in the U.S.

"We're proud that our award-winning SUV vehicles, as well as the amazing WRX/STI, could deliver an all-time best April," said Jeff Walters, Senior Vice President of Sales. "We expect car buyers will continue to make Subaru top-of-mind this Spring, but our results will be influenced by vehicle availability due to the well-documented chip shortages impacting production throughout the auto industry."

Carline Apr-21 Apr-20 % Chg Apr-21 Apr-20 % Chg

MTD MTD MTD YTD YTD YTD Forester 19,452 9,431 106.3% 67,146 48,511 38.4% Impreza 3,447 1,857 85.6% 12,562 12,146 3.4% WRX/STI 3,183 1,368 132.7% 8,749 5,908 48.1% Ascent 4,398 3,954 11.3% 18,871 19,578 -3.6% Legacy 2,464 1,358 81.5% 8,769 7,893 11.1% Outback 15,728 8,062 95.1% 57,231 40,677 40.7% BRZ 118 105 12.4% 701 497 41.1% Crosstrek 12,599 4,489 180.7% 47,786 26,005 83.8% TOTAL 61,389 30,624 100.5% 221,815 161,215 37.6%

About Subaru of America, Inc.

Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) is a wholly owned subsidiary of Subaru Corporation of Japan. Headquartered at a zero-landfill office in Camden, N.J., the company markets and distributes Subaru vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of more than 630 retailers across the United States. All Subaru products are manufactured in zero-landfill plants and Subaru of Indiana Automotive, Inc. is the only U.S. automobile manufacturing plant to be designated a backyard wildlife habitat by the National Wildlife Federation. SOA is guided by the Subaru Love Promise, which is the company's vision to show love and respect to everyone, and to support its communities and customers nationwide. Over the past 20 years, SOA has donated more than $200 million to causes the Subaru family cares about, and its employees have logged more than 63,000 volunteer hours. As a company, Subaru believes it is important to do its part in making a positive impact in the world because it is the right thing to do. For additional information visit media.subaru.com. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Dominick Infante

Director, Corporate Communications

(856) 488-8615

[email protected]

Diane Anton

Corporate Communications Manager

(856) 488-5093

[email protected]

SOURCE Subaru of America, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.subaru.com


MIAMI BEACH, Fla., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The Aesthetic Surgery Education and Research Foundation (ASERF) announced the election of Louis L. Strock, MD, a plastic surgeon practicing in Fort Worth, Texas as its new President. Dr. Strock is an aesthetic and reconstructive plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. ASERF is the philanthropic research and education arm of The Aesthetic Society. As President of ASERF, Dr. Strock plans to leverage research and technology advancements from the Aesthetic One app and Aesthetic Neural Network (ANN) to gain deeper insights for both doctors and patients.

"I am honored to have the opportunity to serve as President of the Aesthetic Surgery Education and Research Foundation. The past year, under the leadership of Dr. Luis M Rios Jr., has been transformational for ASERF, with much work still to be done to utilize the data of Aesthetic One and Aesthetic Neural Network (ANN)", says Dr. Louis Strock, president. "These technologies, developed in collaboration with ASERF and The Aesthetic Society, will facilitate research projects underway on Breast Implant Illness and other topics critical to aesthetic surgery. I look forward to working with The Aesthetic Society and its President, Dr. William P. Adams Jr., to advance the capabilities of these technologies to benefit our specialty and membership."

Dr. Strock is in private practice in Fort Worth, Texas and Clinical Assistant Professor UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, TX. His practice focuses on aesthetic surgery of the breast, body, and face. Special interests of his practice include transaxillary breast augmentation, breast implant replacement and revision procedures, and breast lift with implants.

A graduate of Amherst College, Dr. Strock earned his MD at The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, where he also completed residencies in Surgery and Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. He served as Assistant Professor in Surgery, Department of Plastic Surgery, at UTMB before beginning his private practice in Fort Worth in 1996. He has served The Aesthetic Society as an educator and frequent speaker on aesthetic breast surgery at national meetings and sponsored symposia, Aesthetic Society Traveling Professor 2012-2017, and member of the Exhibits Committee. He has served on the ASERF Board of Directors, and on the Lifetime Achievement Award Committee and Mollenkopf Grants Committee. Dr. Strock was also recently appointed to be a Clinical Editor of the Aesthetic Surgery Journal. He has written numerous articles and textbook chapters on aesthetic breast surgery.

Other newly named ASERF officers serving on the Executive Committee are as follows:

President-Elect: Michael A. Bogdan, MD, MBA Fellowship-trained and certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Dr. Bogdan spent six years of residency at Stanford University. Dr. Bogdan completed his undergraduate education at The University of Maryland at College Park. He earned his MD from Stanford University School of Medicine. Dr. Bogdan also holds an MBA from the McCombs School of Business, University of Texas.

Vice-President: Bruce W. Van Natta, MD Board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Dr. Van Natta has been a practicing plastic surgeon in Indianapolis for over 25 years. A graduate of DePauw University, he received his medical degree from Indiana University School of Medicine where he originally planned to become a cardiovascular surgeon. He completed five years of general surgery residency with an additional two and a half years in the specialty of plastic surgery. He is a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Plastic Surgery section of Indiana University Medical Center and travels extensively giving presentations on a national level on breast surgery and soft tissue support. A Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, Dr. Van Natta is Medical Advisor for Allergan Breast Aesthetics and was an active investigator in all of the clinical trials leading up to the re-release of silicone gel breast implants.

Treasurer: Mark W. Clemens, MD Board-certified in Plastic Surgery, Dr. Mark Clemens is an Associate Professor at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. With expertise in complex reconstruction and microsurgery, his recent focus has been on Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). Dr. Clemens serves as an American Society of Plastic Surgeons' (ASPS) society liaison to the US FDA and chairs a subcommittee for ASPS overseeing US research and education efforts for BIA-ALCL. Dr. Clemens completed his Plastic Surgery residency at Georgetown University. In 2011, he came to the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas where he completed a fellowship in Microvascular Reconstructive Surgery. Upon completion of his fellowship, Dr. Clemens was recruited to the Department of Plastic Surgery at MD Anderson Cancer Center where he is an Associate Professor.

Secretary: Caroline Glicksman, MD, MSJ board-certified plastic surgeon in New Jersey, Dr. Caroline Glicksman has been in private practice in Sea Girt since 1991. She attended the University of Massachusetts in Amherst, Massachusetts, and in 1980 received a BS in microbiology and a BA in sociology. Dr. Glicksman went on to attend the State University of New York, Downstate Medical Center, receiving her MD in 1985. After completing her general surgery training at Mount Sinai Hospital in NYC, she completed her plastic surgery residency at New York Hospital-Cornell Medical Center and Memorial Sloan-Kettering Hospital in 1991. She then went on to complete an additional fellowship in cosmetic surgery at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. In 2020, she received her Masters in Pharmaceutical and Medical Device Law from Seton Hall Law School.

ASERF works diligently each year to select the best grant applications, as well as fund directed research projects that will most greatly impact the sub-specialty of aesthetic plastic surgery. If you would like to support the mission, you may donate here:

http://www.aserf.org/donor-benefits/make-a-difference . ASERF is grateful to those who have given and hopes that with continued support we will be able to further our mission for years to come.

About ASERF:

The Aesthetic Surgery Education and Research Foundation (ASERF) is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit charitable foundation. Its mission is to identify and pursue those issues relevant to advancing the safety and effectiveness of aesthetic medicine through independent, unbiased, directed research, and groundbreaking education. ASERF is supported exclusively by charitable donations and research revenues. For more information, visit www.aserf.org.

About The Aesthetic Society:

The Aesthetic Society is recognized as the world's leading organization devoted entirely to aesthetic plastic surgery and cosmetic medicine of the face and body. The Aesthetic Society is comprised of more than 2,600 members in North America and internationally; Active Members are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (USA) or by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada and have extensive training in the complete spectrum of surgical and non-surgical aesthetic procedures. International Active Members are certified by equivalent boards of their respective countries. All members worldwide adhere to a strict Code of Ethics and must meet stringent membership requirements. The Aesthetic Society is at the forefront of innovation in aesthetic plastic surgery and cosmetic medicine globally.

Visit our website: www.surgery.org

Follow The Aesthetic Society on social:

Instagram

Twitter

Facebook

Locate a plastic surgeon in your area: http://www.smartbeautyguide.com/select-surgeon

Media contact: [email protected]

SOURCE The Aesthetic Society
WILMINGTON, Del., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The Chemours Company (Chemours) (NYSE: CC), a global chemistry company with leading market positions in Titanium Technologies, Thermal & Specialized Solutions, Advanced Performance Materials, and Chemical Solutions today announces its financial results for the first quarter 2021.

First Quarter 2021 Results & Highlights

Net Sales of $1.4 billion , up 10% year-over-year

, up 10% year-over-year Net Income of $96 million with EPS of $0.57

with EPS of Adjusted Net Income * of $120 million with Adjusted EPS * of $0.71

of $120 million with Adjusted EPS of Adjusted EBITDA * of $268 million

of Initiated strategic review of Mining Solutions

Announced ambitious net zero climate goal

On April 29, 2021 , the company's Board of Directors approved a second quarter dividend of $0.25 per share, consistent with the prior quarter

2021 Revised Outlook

Adjusted EBITDA* between $1.10 and $1.25 billion , up $100 million at the midpoint vs. prior outlook

and , up at the midpoint vs. prior outlook Adjusted EPS * between ~$2.84 and $3.56 vs. prior expectation of ~$2.40 and $3.12

between and vs. prior expectation of and Free Cash Flow* now expected to be greater than $450 million , up $100 million vs. prior outlook

"We are off to a great start in 2021 as the broad economic recovery drove strong year-over-year and sequential volume growth across the majority of our portfolio, leading to the highest quarterly sales total in more than 2-years," said Chemours President and CEO Mark Vergnano. "This outcome was achieved despite managing through supply chain challenges and operational headwinds, most notably from Winter Storm Uri. Looking ahead, our strong 1Q results and growing confidence in the outlook allows us to raise our 2021 full-year Adjusted EBITDA range by $100 million with Free Cash Flow now expected to be greater than $450 million."

First quarter 2021 Net Sales were $1.4 billion, 10% higher than the prior-year quarter, which included a negative 1% portfolio impact from the exit of the aniline business. 11% volume growth was the primary driver of the better year-over-year sales performance with positive contributions from every segment, led by robust growth in Titanium Technologies and Advanced Performance Materials. The 7% sequential sales improvement was supported by a global macro recovery that drove sales higher in Titanium Technologies, Thermal & Specialized Solutions, Advanced Performance Materials, and Chemical Solutions after accounting for portfolio changes.

First quarter Net Income was $96 million, resulting in EPS of $0.57. Adjusted Net Income was $120 million, resulting in Adjusted EPS of $0.71, flat vs. the prior-year quarter. Adjusted EBITDA for the first quarter 2021 was $268 million in comparison to $257 million in the prior-year first quarter, a result of higher volume and favorable currency impact, partially offset by lower average pricing, under absorption of fixed costs stemming from Winter Storm Uri related plant shutdowns, and higher performance-related compensation. The cost impact of Winter Storm Uri, excluding the impact of lost sales, on Adjusted EBITDA is $9 million, mostly in Thermal & Specialized Solutions. Free Cash Flow improved $41 million vs. the prior-year quarter primarily driven by lower capital expenditures.

Titanium Technologies

Titanium Technologies (TT) segment Net Sales in the first quarter were $723 million in comparison to $613 million in the prior-year quarter. Volume increased 16% vs. the prior-year first quarter, a result of solid demand in all regions and end-markets despite the logistics and operations issues from Winter Storm Uri. Operations have since recovered and are ramping up successfully to meet demand. Despite the challenging operating environment, we prioritized supplying our long-term contracted customers by managing product availability through Flex, consistent with our TVS strategy. The percentage of sales under long-term contracts increased during the quarter, as customers realize the benefits of reliable sourcing and predictable pricing. Currency was a 3% benefit vs. the prior-year period with a 1% offset from lower price due to mix. On a sequential basis, segment volume and price each increased by 2%, with positive contribution across all channels. Adjusted EBITDA increased by 22% to $169 million, in comparison to $138 million in the prior-year first quarter.

Thermal & Specialized Solutions

Thermal & Specialized Solutions (TSS) segment Net Sales in the first quarter were $304 million, a 1% decline vs. the prior-year quarter. Segment volume improved 4% year-over-year as the global demand recovery was partially offset by constrained global auto production as well as from operational challenges from Winter Storm Uri. We worked closely with our customers to minimize disruption and have now restored full supply chain capability. Opteon volumes continued to drive growth in the period due to improved adoption but faced headwinds from lower global auto production. Currency was a 1% benefit vs. the prior-year period. Segment price declined 6% vs. the prior-year quarter, primarily due to contractual price adjustments for refrigerants as well as product and customer mix. Segment Adjusted EBITDA of $93 million increased 6% vs. the prior-year quarter and Adjusted EBITDA margins improved 200bps year-over-year as cost discipline and the ramp of our Corpus Christi facility more than offset headwinds from under absorption of fixed costs stemming from operational issues related to Winter Storm Uri and lower contractual pricing.

Advanced Performance Materials

Advanced Performance Materials (APM) segment Net Sales in the first quarter were $333 million, returning to a pre-pandemic quarterly sales run-rate and hitting the highest monthly sales in Chemours history in March. Strong year-over-year sales growth was driven by demand recovery across nearly all end-markets and regions, led by Semiconductors, Electronics, Transportation, and Oil &Gas. Volume and currency contributed 13% and 4% respectively to the strong year-over-year sales performance with a partial offset from 3% lower pricing, driven by mix. Segment Adjusted EBITDA of $51 million decreased 2% vs. the prior-year quarter as higher sales were more than offset by fixed cost under absorption due to supply chain disruption from Winter Storm Uri, and the timing of certain expenses vs. the prior-year period. On a sequential basis Net Sales increased 19%, or $54 million, driving Adjusted EBITDA 104% higher, or $26 million  demonstrating the high incremental margin potential in this business. First quarter Adjusted EBITDA margins of 15% are 600bps higher vs. the prior quarter.

Chemical Solutions

Chemical Solutions (CS) segment Net Sales in the first quarter were $76 million, 17% lower vs. the prior-year quarter driven by a decline of 19% due to portfolio changes. CS Net Sales increased 2% year-over-year after accounting for the portfolio change driven by 1% higher price and a 1% year-over-year volume increase led by strong Mining Solutions performance. Glycolic Acid and Vazo demand remained strong in the quarter, but volumes were slightly lower year-over-year due to regional logistical challenges and effects from Winter Storm Uri. Adjusted EBITDA was $10 million, $5 million below the prior year period, supported by stronger results in Mining Solutions, but offset by incremental costs associated with Winter Storm Uri, portfolio impacts from the closure of Pascagoula and the timing of license income relative to the prior-year period.

Corporate and Other

Corporate and Other in the first quarter 2021 represented a $55 million offset to Adjusted EBITDA vs. $36 million in the prior-year quarter, primarily driven by $12 million of higher legacy environmental remediation costs and performance-related compensation expense vs. the prior-year period.

Liquidity

As of March 31, 2021, consolidated gross debt was $4.0 billion. Debt, net of $1.0 billion cash, was $3.0 billion, resulting in a net leverage ratio of approximately 3.4 times on a trailing twelve-month Adjusted EBITDA basis. Total liquidity was $1.7 billion comprised of $1.0 billion of cash and $0.7 billion of revolving credit facility capacity.

Cash provided by operating activities for the first quarter of 2021 was $39 million, down $5 million from $44 million in the prior-year quarter. Capital expenditures for the first quarter 2021 were $60 million, vs. $106 million in last year's first quarter. Free Cash Flow for the first quarter of 2021 was negative $21 million, a $41 million improvement vs. the prior-year Free Cash Flow of negative $62 million.

Outlook

Vergnano commented, "Given our solid first quarter performance and the continuation of strong underlying demand trends, we now expect to deliver 2021 Adjusted EBITDA within a range of $1.1 to $1.25 billion and to generate greater than $450 million of Free Cash Flow. We remain mindful of the challenges presented by an uneven global economic recovery and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic but are optimistic that the recovery is now well underway across all of our core markets."

Conference Call

As previously announced, Chemours will hold a conference call and webcast on Tuesday, May 4, 2021, at 8:30 AM EST. The webcast and additional presentation materials can be accessed by visiting the Events & Presentations page of Chemours' investor website, investors.chemours.com. A webcast replay of the conference call will be available on the Chemours' investor website.

About The Chemours Company

The Chemours Company (NYSE: CC) is a global leader in Titanium Technologies, Thermal & Specialized Solutions, Advanced Performance Materials, and Chemical Solutions providing its customers with solutions in a wide range of industries with market-defining products, application expertise and chemistry-based innovations. We deliver customized solutions with a wide range of industrial and specialty chemicals products for markets, including coatings, plastics, refrigeration, and air conditioning, transportation, semiconductor and consumer electronics, general industrial, mining and oil and gas. Our flagship products include prominent brands such as Ti-Pure, Opteon, Freon, Teflon, Viton, Nafion, and Krytox. In 2019, Chemours was named to Newsweek's list of America's Most Responsible Companies. The company has approximately 6,500 employees and 30 manufacturing sites serving approximately 3,300 customers in approximately 120 countries. Chemours is headquartered in Wilmington, Delaware and is listed on the NYSE under the symbol CC.

For more information, we invite you to visit chemours.com or follow us on Twitter @Chemours or LinkedIn .

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

We prepare our financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). Within this press release, we may make reference to Adjusted Net Income (Loss), Adjusted EPS, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA Margin, Free Cash Flow, Adjusted Effective Tax Rate, Return on Invested Capital and Net Leverage Ratio which are non-GAAP financial measures. The company includes these non-GAAP financial measures because management believes they are useful to investors in that they provide for greater transparency with respect to supplemental information used by management in its financial and operational decision making.

Management uses Adjusted Net Income (Loss), Adjusted EPS, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA Margin, Free Cash Flow, Adjusted Effective Tax Rate, Return on Invested Capital and Net Leverage Ratio to evaluate the company's performance excluding the impact of certain noncash charges and other special items which we expect to be infrequent in occurrence in order to have comparable financial results to analyze changes in our underlying business from quarter to quarter.

Accordingly, the company believes the presentation of these non-GAAP financial measures, when used in conjunction with GAAP financial measures, is a useful financial analysis tool that can assist investors in assessing the company's operating performance and underlying prospects. This analysis should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for analysis of our results as reported under GAAP. This analysis, as well as the other information in this press release, should be read in conjunction with the company's financial statements and footnotes contained in the documents that the company files with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The non-GAAP financial measures used by the company in this press release may be different from the methods used by other companies. For more information on the non-GAAP financial measures, please refer to the attached schedules or the table, "Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures to GAAP Financial Measures" and materials posted to the company's website at investors.chemours.com.

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 involve risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements provide current expectations of future events based on certain assumptions and include any statement that does not directly relate to a historical or current fact. The words "believe," "expect," "will," "anticipate," "plan," "estimate," "target," "project" and similar expressions, among others, generally identify "forward-looking statements," which speak only as of the date such statements were made. These forward-looking statements may address, among other things, the outcome or resolution of any pending or future environmental liabilities, the commencement, outcome or resolution of any regulatory inquiry, investigation or proceeding, the initiation, outcome or settlement of any litigation, changes in environmental regulations in the U.S. or other jurisdictions that affect demand for or adoption of our products, anticipated future operating and financial performance for our segments individually and our company as a whole, business plans, prospects, targets, goals and commitments, capital investments and projects and target capital expenditures, plans for dividends or share repurchases, sufficiency or longevity of intellectual property protection, cost reductions or savings targets, plans to increase profitability and growth, our ability to make acquisitions, integrate acquired businesses or assets into our operations, and achieve anticipated synergies or cost savings, all of which are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. Forward-looking statements are based on certain assumptions and expectations of future events that may not be accurate or realized. These statements are not guarantees of future performance. Forward-looking statements also involve risks and uncertainties that are beyond Chemours' control. In addition, the current COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the national and global economy and commodity and financial markets, which has had, and we expect will continue to have a negative impact on our financial results. The full extent and impact of the pandemic is unknown and to date has included extreme volatility in financial and commodity markets, a significant slowdown in economic activity, and increased predictions of a global recession. The public and private sector response has led to significant restrictions on travel, temporary business closures, quarantines, stock market volatility, and a general reduction in consumer and commercial activity globally. Matters outside our control have affected our business and operations and may or may continue to limit travel of employees to our business units domestically and internationally, adversely affect the health and welfare of our personnel, significantly reduce the demand for our products, hinder our ability to provide goods and services to customers, cause disruptions in our supply chains, adversely affect our business partners or cause other unpredictable events. Additionally, there may be other risks and uncertainties that Chemours is unable to identify at this time or that Chemours does not currently expect to have a material impact on its business. Factors that could cause or contribute to these differences include the risks, uncertainties and other factors discussed in our filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including in our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2021 and in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020. Chemours assumes no obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statement for any reason, except as required by law.

CONTACT:

INVESTORS

Jonathan Lock

VP, Corporate Development and Investor Relations

+1.302.773.2263

[email protected]

NEWS MEDIA

Thomas Sueta

Director, Corporate Communications

+1.302.773.3903

[email protected]

The Chemours Company Interim Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited) (Dollars in millions, except per share amounts)





Three Months Ended March 31,





2021



2020

Net sales

$ 1,436



$ 1,305

Cost of goods sold



1,139





1,007

Gross profit



297





298

Selling, general, and administrative expense



139





125

Research and development expense



24





24

Restructuring, asset-related, and other charges



(5)





11

Total other operating expenses



158





160

Equity in earnings of affiliates



10





8

Interest expense, net



(49)





(54)

Other income (expense), net



1





(15)

Income before income taxes



101





77

Provision for (benefit from) income taxes



5





(23)

Net income



96





100

Net income attributable to Chemours

$ 96



$ 100

Per share data















Basic earnings per share of common stock

$ 0.58



$ 0.61

Diluted earnings per share of common stock



0.57





0.61



The Chemours Company Interim Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited) (Dollars in millions, except per share amounts)





March 31, 2021



December 31, 2020

Assets















Current assets:















Cash and cash equivalents

$ 1,008



$ 1,105

Accounts and notes receivable, net



723





511

Inventories



988





939

Prepaid expenses and other



67





78

Total current assets



2,786





2,633

Property, plant, and equipment



9,553





9,582

Less: Accumulated depreciation



(6,121)





(6,108)

Property, plant, and equipment, net



3,432





3,474

Operating lease right-of-use assets



228





236

Goodwill, net



152





153

Other intangible assets, net



11





14

Investments in affiliates



169





167

Other assets



392





405

Total assets

$ 7,170



$ 7,082

Liabilities















Current liabilities:















Accounts payable

$ 976



$ 844

Short-term and current maturities of long-term debt



23





21

Other accrued liabilities



502





577

Total current liabilities



1,501





1,442

Long-term debt, net



3,970





4,005

Operating lease liabilities



186





194

Deferred income taxes



51





36

Other liabilities



610





590

Total liabilities



6,318





6,267

Commitments and contingent liabilities















Equity















Common stock (par value $0.01 per share; 810,000,000 shares authorized; 190,783,383 shares issued and 165,464,148 shares outstanding at March 31, 2021; 190,239,883 shares issued and 164,920,648 shares outstanding at December 31, 2020)



2





2

Treasury stock, at cost (25,319,235 shares at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020)



(1,072)





(1,072)

Additional paid-in capital



907





890

Retained earnings



1,357





1,303

Accumulated other comprehensive loss



(344)





(310)

Total Chemours stockholders' equity



850





813

Non-controlling interests



2





2

Total equity



852





815

Total liabilities and equity

$ 7,170



$ 7,082



The Chemours Company Interim Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited) (Dollars in millions)





Three Months Ended March 31,





2021



2020

Cash flows from operating activities















Net income

$ 96



$ 100

Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash provided by (used for) operating activities:















Depreciation and amortization



83





79

Equity in earnings of affiliates, net



(10)





(4)

Amortization of debt issuance costs and issue discounts



2





2

Deferred tax benefit



(6)





(43)

Asset-related charges









1

Stock-based compensation expense



12





8

Net periodic pension cost



1





3

Defined benefit plan contributions



(5)





(8)

Other operating charges and credits, net



29





3

Decrease (increase) in operating assets:















Accounts and notes receivable, net



(213)





(11)

Inventories and other operating assets



(31)





(42)

(Decrease) increase in operating liabilities:















Accounts payable and other operating liabilities



81





(44)

Cash provided by operating activities



39





44

Cash flows from investing activities















Purchases of property, plant, and equipment



(60)





(106)

Foreign exchange contract settlements, net



(17)





(6)

Cash used for investing activities



(77)





(112)

Cash flows from financing activities















Proceeds from accounts receivable securitization facility









12

Debt repayments



(3)





(128)

Payments on finance leases



(2)





(1)

Proceeds from exercised stock options, net



6





5

Payments related to tax withholdings on vested stock awards



(2)





(2)

Payments of dividends to the Company's common shareholders



(41)





(41)

Cash used for financing activities



(42)





(155)

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents



(17)





(6)

Decrease in cash and cash equivalents



(97)





(229)

Cash and cash equivalents at January 1,



1,105





943

Cash and cash equivalents at March 31,

$ 1,008



$ 714



















Supplemental cash flows information















Non-cash investing and financing activities:















Purchases of property, plant, and equipment included in accounts payable

$ 44



$ 37



The Chemours Company Segment Financial and Operating Data (Unaudited) (Dollars in millions)

Segment Net Sales





























Three Months

























Ended



Sequential



Three Months Ended March 31,



Increase /



December 31,



Increase /



2021



2020



(Decrease)



2020



(Decrease)

Titanium Technologies $

723



$

613



$

110



$

691



$

32

Thermal & Specialized Solutions



304







308







(4)







272







32

Advanced Performance Materials



333







292







41







279







54

Chemical Solutions



76







92







(16)







95







(19)

Total Net Sales $

1,436



$

1,305



$

131



$

1,337



$

99



Segment Adjusted EBITDA

























Three Months











































Ended



Sequential



Three Months Ended March 31,



Increase /



December 31,



Increase /



2021



2020



(Decrease)



2020



(Decrease)

Titanium Technologies $

169



$

138



$

31



$

149



$

20

Thermal & Specialized Solutions



93







88







5







105







(12)

Advanced Performance Materials



51







52







(1)







25







26

Chemical Solutions



10







15







(5)







28







(18)

Corporate and Other



(55)







(36)







(19)







(61)







6

Total Adjusted EBITDA $

268



$

257



$

11



$

246



$

22



















































Adjusted EBITDA Margin 19%



20%









18%









Quarterly Change in Net Sales from the three months ended March 31, 2020



March 31, 2021

Percentage Change vs.

Percentage Change Due To



Net Sales

March 31, 2020

Price

Volume

Currency

Portfolio

Total Company $

1,436



10 %

(2) %

11 %

2 %

(1) %







































Titanium Technologies $

723



18 %

(1) %

16 %

3 %

 % Thermal & Specialized Solutions



304



(1) %

(6) %

4 %

1 %

 % Advanced Performance Materials



333



14 %

(3) %

13 %

4 %

 % Chemical Solutions



76



(17) %

1 %

1 %

 %

(19) %

Quarterly Change in Net Sales from the three months ended December 31, 2020



March 31, 2021

Percentage Change vs.

Percentage Change Due To



Net Sales

December 31, 2020

Price

Volume

Currency

Portfolio

Total Company $

1,436



7 %

 %

8 %

1 %

(2) %







































Titanium Technologies $

723



5 %

2 %

2 %

1 %

 % Thermal & Specialized Solutions



304



12 %

1 %

12 %

(1) %

 % Advanced Performance Materials



333



19 %

(2) %

20 %

1 %

 % Chemical Solutions



76



(20) %

2 %

(2) %

 %

(20) %

The Chemours Company Reconciliation of GAAP Financial Measures to Non-GAAP Financial Measures (Unaudited) (Dollars in millions)

GAAP Net Income to Adjusted Net Income and Adjusted EBITDA Reconciliation

Adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization ("Adjusted EBITDA") is defined as income (loss) before income taxes, excluding the following items: interest expense, depreciation, and amortization; non-operating pension and other post-retirement employee benefit costs, which represents the components of net periodic pension (income) costs excluding the service cost component; exchange (gains) losses included in other income (expense), net; restructuring, asset-related, and other charges; (gains) losses on sales of businesses or assets; and, other items not considered indicative of the Company's ongoing operational performance and expected to occur infrequently. Adjusted Net Income is defined as net income (loss) attributable to Chemours, adjusted for items excluded from Adjusted EBITDA, except interest expense, depreciation, amortization, and certain provision for (benefit from) income tax amounts.





Three Months Ended





March 31,



December 31,





2021



2020



2020

Net income attributable to Chemours

$

96



$

100



$

19

Non-operating pension and other post-retirement employee benefit (income) cost





(1)















1

Exchange losses (gains), net





8







24







(2)

Restructuring, asset-related, and other charges





(5)







11







43

Loss on extinguishment of debt





















22

Gain on sales of assets and businesses (1)





















(8)

Natural disasters and catastrophic events (2)





16

















Transaction costs





4







2









Legal and environmental charges (3,4)





13







10







37

Adjustments made to income taxes (5)













(19)







9

Benefit from income taxes relating to reconciling items (6)





(11)







(10)







(18)

Adjusted Net Income (7)





120







118







103

Interest expense, net





49







54







50

Depreciation and amortization





83







79







80

All remaining provision for income taxes (7)





16







6







13

Adjusted EBITDA

$

268



$

257



$

246

































Adjusted effective tax rate (7)





12 %





5 %





11 %





(1) The three months ended December 31, 2020 includes a gain of $6 recognized in connection with the sale of our Oakley, California site. (2) Natural disasters and catastrophic events pertains to the total cost of plant repairs and utility charges in excess of historical averages caused by Winter Storm Uri. (3) Legal charges pertains to litigation settlements, PFOA drinking water treatment accruals, and other legal charges. The three months ended December 31, 2020 includes $29 incurred in connection with our portion of the costs to settle PFOA multi-district litigation. See "Note 15  Commitments and Contingent Liabilities" to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements in our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2021 and "Note 22 Commitments and Contingent Liabilities" to the Consolidated Financial Statements in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020 for further details. (4) In 2020, environmental charges pertains to management's assessment of estimated liabilities associated with on-site remediation, off-site groundwater remediation, and toxicity studies related to Fayetteville. The three months ended March 31, 2020 includes $8 in additional charges related to the approved final Consent Order associated with certain matters at Fayetteville. See "Note 15  Commitments and Contingent Liabilities" to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements in our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2021 and "Note 22 Commitments and Contingent Liabilities" to the Consolidated Financial Statements in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020 for further details (5) Includes the removal of certain discrete income tax impacts within our provision for income taxes, such as shortfalls and windfalls on our share-based payments, certain return-to-accrual adjustments, valuation allowance adjustments, unrealized gains and losses on foreign exchange rate changes, and other discrete income tax items. (6) The income tax impacts included in this caption are determined using the applicable rates in the taxing jurisdictions in which income or expense occurred and represents both current and deferred income tax expense or benefit based on the nature of the non-GAAP financial measure. (7) Adjusted effective tax rate is defined as all remaining provision for income taxes divided by pre-tax Adjusted Net Income.

The Chemours Company Reconciliation of GAAP Financial Measures to Non-GAAP Financial Measures (Unaudited) (Dollars in millions, except per share amounts)

GAAP Earnings per Share to Adjusted Earnings per Share Reconciliation

Adjusted earnings per share ("EPS") is calculated by dividing Adjusted Net Income by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding. Diluted Adjusted EPS accounts for the dilutive impact of stock-based compensation awards, which includes unvested restricted shares. Diluted Adjusted EPS considers the impact of potentially-dilutive securities, except in periods in which there is a loss because the inclusion of the potentially-dilutive securities would have an anti-dilutive effect.





Three Months Ended





March 31,



December 31,





2021



2020



2020

Numerator:

















Net income attributable to Chemours

$

96



$

100



$

19

Adjusted Net Income





120







118







103

Denominator:

















Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding - basic





165,652,778







164,247,449







165,056,160

Dilutive effect of the Company's employee compensation plans





3,397,544







1,010,542







3,031,379

Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding - diluted





169,050,322







165,257,991







168,087,539





















Basic earnings per share of common stock

$

0.58



$

0.61



$

0.12

Diluted earnings per share of common stock





0.57







0.61







0.11

Adjusted basic earnings per share of common stock





0.72







0.72







0.62

Adjusted diluted earnings per share of common stock





0.71







0.71







0.61



The Chemours Company Reconciliation of GAAP Financial Measures to Non-GAAP Financial Measures (Unaudited) (Dollars in millions, except per share amounts)

2021 Estimated Adjusted EBITDA and Estimated GAAP Net Income to Estimated Adjusted EPS Reconciliation (*)





Year Ended December 31, 2021





Low



High

Net income attributable to Chemours

$ 429



$ 552

Restructuring, transaction, and other costs



50





50

Adjusted Net Income



479





602

Interest expense, net



191





191

Depreciation and amortization



325





325

All remaining provision for income taxes



105





132

Adjusted EBITDA

$ 1,100



$ 1,250



















Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding - basic (1)



165.7





165.7

Dilutive effect of the Company's employee compensation plans (1,2)



3.2





3.2

Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding - diluted (1,2)



168.9





168.9



















Basic earnings per share of common stock

$ 2.59



$ 3.33

Diluted earnings per share of common stock (2)



2.54





3.27

Adjusted basic earnings per share of common stock



2.89





3.63

Adjusted diluted earnings per share of common stock (2)



2.84





3.56







(1) The Company's estimates for the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding - basic and diluted reflect results for the three months ended March 31, 2021, which are carried forward for the projection period.



(2) Diluted earnings per share is calculated using net income available to common shareholders divided by diluted weighted-average common shares outstanding during each period, which includes unvested restricted shares. Diluted earnings per share considers the impact of potentially dilutive securities except in periods in which there is a loss because the inclusion of the potential common shares would have an anti-dilutive effect.



(*) The Company's estimates reflect its current visibility and expectations based on market factors, such as currency movements, macro-economic factors, and end-market demand. Actual results could differ materially from these current estimates.

The Chemours Company Reconciliation of GAAP Financial Measures to Non-GAAP Financial Measures (Unaudited) (Dollars in millions)

GAAP Cash Flow Provided by Operating Activities to Free Cash Flows Reconciliation

Free Cash Flows is defined as cash flows provided by (used for) operating activities, less purchases of property, plant, and equipment as shown in the consolidated statements of cash flows.





Three Months Ended





March 31,



December 31,





2021



2020



2020

Cash provided by operating activities

$

39



$

44



$

353

Less: Purchases of property, plant, and equipment





(60)







(106)







(53)

Free Cash Flows

$

(21)



$

(62)



$

300



2021 GAAP Cash Flow Provided by Operating Activities to Estimated Free Cash Flow Reconciliation (*)





(Estimated)



Year Ended December 31, 2021 Cash flow provided by operating activities

$ >800 Less: Purchases of property, plant, and equipment



~(350) Free Cash Flows

$ >450





(*) The Company's estimates reflect its current visibility and expectations based on market factors, such as currency movements, macro-economic factors, and end-market demand. Actual results could differ materially from these current estimates.

Return on Invested Capital Reconciliation

Return on Invested Capital ("ROIC") is defined as Adjusted EBITDA, less depreciation and amortization ("Adjusted EBIT"), divided by the average of invested capital, which amounts to net debt, or debt less cash and cash equivalents, plus equity.





Twelve months Ended March 31,





2021



2020

Adjusted EBITDA (1)

$ 890



$ 1,015

Less: Depreciation and amortization (1)



(324)





(313)

Adjusted EBIT

$ 566



$ 702























As of March 31,





2021



2020

Total debt

$ 3,993



$ 4,034

Total equity



852





661

Less: Cash and cash equivalents



(1,008)





(714)

Invested capital, net

$ 3,837



$ 3,981

Average invested capital (2)

$ 3,880



$ 4,140



















Return on Invested Capital



15 %



17 %





(1) Reconciliations of net income (loss) attributable to Chemours to Adjusted EBITDA are provided on a quarterly basis. See the preceding table for the reconciliation of net income (loss) attributable to Chemours to Adjusted EBITDA. (2) Average invested capital is based on a five-quarter trailing average of invested capital, net.

The Chemours Company Reconciliation of GAAP Financial Measures to Non-GAAP Financial Measures (Unaudited) (Dollars in millions)

Net Leverage Ratio Reconciliation

Net Leverage Ratio is defined as our total debt principal, net, or our total debt principal outstanding less cash and cash equivalents, divided by Adjusted EBITDA.





As of March 31,





2021



2020

Total debt principal

$ 4,027



$ 4,069

Less: Cash and cash equivalents



(1,008)





(714)

Total debt principal, net

$ 3,019



$ 3,355























Twelve months Ended March 31,





2021



2020

Adjusted EBITDA (1)

$ 890



$ 1,015



















Net Leverage Ratio



3.4





3.3







(1) Reconciliations of net income (loss) attributable to Chemours to Adjusted EBITDA are provided on a quarterly basis. See the preceding table for the reconciliation of net income (loss) attributable to Chemours to Adjusted EBITDA.

SOURCE The Chemours Company

Related Links

http://www.chemours.com/


PORTLAND, Ore., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The Oregon Tourism Commission, dba Travel Oregon has awarded $2,408,264.67 through its Competitive & Recovery Grant Program to support economic recovery by investing in projects that enhance and expand the visitor experience and prepare communities and visitors for COVID-19 safe travel. For this grant cycle, Travel Oregon received more than 400 applications with a request greater than $18 million.

"These projects directly support Oregon's tourism economy, from iconic Oregon attractions like the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, to outdoor trail development, to retrofitting outdoor events to meet public health standards," said Todd Davidson, CEO of Travel Oregon. "Many of these entities have been closed or were unable to hold their event in the last year because of Covid. Our goal is to support these businesses, events and attractions as they operate safely, restore vibrancy and create economic stability in communities across the state."

The COVID-19 pandemic has severely impacted Oregon's tourism economy. Dean Runyan & Associates' preliminary Economic Impact of Travel in Oregon report finds that in 2020, employment related to travel declined by 22.1% and that total travel spending declined 49.5% from $12.8 billion in 2019 to $6.5 billion. Travel Oregon has developed a variety of programs to support recovery in tourism-related and supported industries as part of the state's larger economic recovery strategy. Learn more here.

For more information on Travel Oregon's grants program visit: industry.traveloregon.com/grants.

The Competitive & Recovery Grant awardees are:

Adventures Without Limits ($15,000) to enhance its online booking technology and adjust configuration of watercrafts to maximize spacing between guests.

Ashland Independent Film Festival ($45,000) to ensure its outdoor summer festival is COVID-19 safe and equipped to follow public health guidelines.

Astoria Downtown Historic District Association ($18,500) to support local restaurants and attractions by providing amenities that create safe and welcoming outdoor spaces.

BendFilm ($26,400) to host the drive-in and virtual programming components of its annual Film Festival in October.

Central Oregon Trail Alliance ($25,000) to construct a new multi-use trail near Sunriver to help disperse crowds from heavy-use areas and accommodate the use of adaptive mountain bikes.

City of Dayville ($3,300) for interpretive signage to share the history and heritage of Dayville.

City of Dundee ($100,000) for a one-acre park that will provide much-needed infrastructure for accessible outdoor activities and offer space for picnics along the business district in Dundee.

City of Eugene ($47,500) for high-efficient lighting to improve safety along main corridors of downtown Eugene.

City of Grants Pass ($100,000) for a new trail system accessed 1.5 miles from downtown and specifically designed to maximize dispersal of recreationists.

City of Lincoln City ($11,430) for increased wayfinding and interpretive signage to increase visitor use and engagement on local trails.

City of Maupin ($35,443.12) to improve a local park to increase outdoor space for dining and physical space for trip preparation for local raft companies.

City of Molalla ($29,800) for design and placement of four informational kiosks strategically positioned around Molalla.

City of Oakridge ($96,226) to install signage and wayfinding in the cities of Oakridge and Westfir to direct visitors to outdoor recreation opportunities in the area.

City of Seaside Visitors Bureau ($14,000) to install interpretive signage along Seaside's historic promenade.

City of Toledo ($49,000) to launch a three-phased project that includes an outdoor dining program, main street beautification and wayfinding signage.

City of Umatilla ($100,000) to construct a family style, ADA compliant restroom facility and sidewalk at Nugent Park.

City of Willamina ($10,000) for an ADA accessible pathway and ramp to the existing ADA boat ramp at Hampton Park.

City of Willamina ($56,885) for phase II of a project that includes directional signage, benches and informational kiosks in downtown Willamina.

Cog Wild Bicycle Tours ($7,962) to upgrade outdoor meeting areas in Bend and Oakridge to provide ADA accessible porta-potties and hand-washing stations.

Columbia County Economic Team ($66,456) for murals to depict the diverse cultural heritage of Vernonia, and additional accessibility and beautification improvements to make the downtown a safe and welcoming place for all visitors.

Coos County ($100,000) to construct five miles of trail, improve physical distancing by building one-way loops and increasing signage on the Whiskey Run Trail System on the South Oregon Coast.

Corvallis Arts Center, Inc. ($10,000) to cover costs associated with taking Arts Alive! 2021 to a virtual platform.

Corvallis Fall Festival ($11,355) to increase sanitization stations to help make the 2021 Fall Festival a COVID-19 compliant event.

Discover Your Northwest ($75,000) to purchase and install a double vault toilet for Skull Hollow Trailhead on the Crooked River National Grassland.

Feed the Mass ($50,000) in partnership with Feast Portland, to support a family-friendly, outdoor food event at The Redd at Ecotrust.

Forests Forever Inc. ($53,405) to improve and reconstruct a portion of the Hopkins Demonstration Forest Trail system.

Hacienda Community Development ($100,000) to improve the Portland Mercado customer experience by installing a permanent canopy over the outdoor seating area, repaving the parking lot and updating signage.

Happy Canyon Foundation, Inc. ($3,222) for hand sanitizer stations to be COVID-19 ready for the 2021 week of Happy Canyon in Pendleton.

Harney County Chamber of Commerce ($5,630) to provide garbage management solutions at the Alvord Desert to accommodate increased visitation from May-October.

Harney County Chamber of Commerce ($26,869.80) for outdoor infrastructure to support a COVID-19 safe outdoor Skull 120 gravel mountain bike event.

Lakeview Community Partnership ($44,004.25) to create public seating and inviting spaces for recreationists, travelers and locals in the downtown core of Lakeview in Southern Oregon.

Maude Kerns Art Center ($5,890) for additional port-a-potties, hand sanitizing stations, protocol enforcement staff and signage at the Arts and the Vineyard Festival in the Willamette Valley.

Maupin Area Chamber Endowment ($100,000) to install a regulation eight-lane polyurethane track and related spectator facilities replacing the current track located on South Wasco County School District property.

Momentum River Expeditions Inc. ($13,500) to COVID-19 test all unvaccinated guides before every multi-day trip, all unvaccinated staff every week, and offer testing to guests on multi-day trips.

MountNbarreL ($13,266) for hand, fruit and vehicle sanitation systems and safety messaging in order to offer a COVID-19 appropriate visitor experience.

Mt. Hood Outfitters ($12,760) to construct an onsite boat storage building to provide a safer and more efficient way for boat renters to have access to watercraft recreation at Trillium Lake.

National Forest Foundation ($100,000) for removal of hazard trees, trail restoration and parking lot improvements at the Archie Creek fire-affected Fall Creek Falls Trail in the Umpqua National Forest.

Newport Trail Stewards ($79,500) for phase I of a project that will construct a series of multi-use and bike-specific trails, improve parking access, add restrooms and install wayfinding and trail signage at the Big Creek Trail System in Newport.

Oregon Ballet Theatre ($50,000) for production equipment to accommodate outdoor performances of Oregon Ballet Theatre at OMSI.

Oregon Shakespeare Festival ($50,000) for HVAC improvements at the iconic Allen Elizabethan Theatre in Ashland.

Oregon Symphony ($28,000) for hand sanitizing stations, multi-language signage and enhanced security for COVID-19 safety monitoring at Oregon Symphony's Waterfront Concert in Portland.

Pendleton Chamber of Commerce ($47,300) for a community-wide ticketing platform that can facilitate numerous attractions, events, and programs for online ticketing purchases.

Port of Cascade Locks ($99,998) for parking lot and trail improvements to ease congestion on the Easy CLiMB family-friendly mountain bike trail in Cascade Locks.

Port of Hood River ($40,000) to improve the visitor experience by increasing safety and expanding water access and amenities along the Hood River waterfront.

Port of The Dalles ($45,230) to improve safety and infrastructure, including launch ramp repairs and wayfinding enhancements, at The Dalles Marina.

Portland Radio Project ($50,000) for virtual streaming capabilities, hand sanitizing stations, restroom facilities and additional infrastructure to build a socially-distanced outdoor venue at Zidell Yards on the South Waterfront to accommodate concerts and other outdoor performances.

Prineville-Crook County Chamber of Commerce ($11,622) to install a bike hub at the visitor center at the Prineville Crook County Chamber of Commerce.

Prosper Portland ($20,000) for sanitation stations, bathrooms and additional supplies needed for My People's Market to safely host businesses, cultural exhibits, and a lineup of Portland-based BIPOC identified artists and performers.

Safari Game Search Foundation ($45,919) to improve Wildlife Safari's outdoor theater, the Safari Dome.

Salem Capital Pride ($2,500) to provide sanitation stations and distancing markers to maximize health and safety of participants at this year's pride event in Salem.

SOLVE ($100,000) for clean-up efforts in downtown Portland.

Sunriver Music Festival ($20,000) for costs associated with producing a fully outdoor two-week music festival in Sunriver.

Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory ($50,000) to enhance outdoor amenities throughout its eight-acre campus and install interpretive and wayfinding signage in high-use outdoor areas.

Tillamook County Fairgrounds ($5,639) for wayfinding signage, event information and safety messaging.

Tillamook County Pioneer Museum ($1,430) for trail improvements and signage replacement at Kilchis Point.

Versatile Guide Service LLC ($4,000) for installation of Plexiglas partitions, an intercom system, PA headsets, N95 masks, and non-contact thermometers to ensure customer safety.

Visit Corvallis ($5,670) for online registration software, sanitation supplies and additional outdoor infrastructure needed to host this year's "Oregon Senior Games."

Visit McMinnville ($47,345) to execute a second season of its Dine Out(Side) "streetery" effort, and to replace safety lighting along pedestrian corridors in the historic downtown.

Western Oregon University Development ($14,990) for a system that allows for cashless transactions, contactless scanning, pre-sale passcodes, and capacity management to help create a COVID-19 appropriate visitor experience.

Woodburn Downtown Association ($6,317.50) for new ticket scanners at Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival that work in conjunction with an updated online ticketing system.

SOURCE Travel Oregon

Related Links

http://www.traveloregon.com


SEATTLE, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Advancing equity and racial justice is key to Treehouse being able to deliver on our mission. That work includes centering equity within the Treehouse organization, advancing equity in the foster care and education systems and engaging in equity work alongside society at large.

One of our new initiatives is an Equity Campaign, which will position Treehouse as a convener of conversations around race, equity, and foster care. Our first event in the Equity Campaign is on May 25. This will be a live conversation  streamed online  with community leaders including Ross Hunter, Secretary of the Washington State Department of Children, Youth and Families, Gary Locke, former Washington State Governor and Interim President of Bellevue College and Shrounda Selivanoff, Director of Public Policy at Children's Home Society.

The amazing Angela Poe Russell from KING 5 and Michelle Li, formerly with KING 5, will be moderating the conversation. We would like to invite the media to watch the conversation and we hope you can help us spread the word.

The event is scheduled for May 25 from 2-3:30 p.m. It will be free and virtual. Register here: treehouseforkids.org/change.

About Treehouse

Founded in 1988 by social workers, Treehouse is Washington's leading nonprofit organization addressing the academic and other essential support needs of more than 7,800 youth in foster care. We're committed to youth in care statewide achieving a degree or other career credential, living wage job and stable housing at the same rate as their peers. With fierce optimism, we fight the structural inequities that impact all of us. Learn more at treehouseforkids.org .

Media contact:

KD Hall

2069662198

[email protected]

SOURCE Treehouse

Related Links

treehouseforkids.org


DALLAS, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Trend Micro Incorporated (TYO: 4704; TSE: 4704), a global cybersecurity leader, today announced a first-of-its-kind OT-native endpoint security solution, provided as part of its total security solution for smart factories. Developed by TXOne Networks, TXOne StellarProtect is designed to secure all OT endpoints, regardless of environmental conditions, for any mission-critical ICS environment.

The massive number of ICS endpoints in these working environments provides a large variety of attack surfaces, as they often include many unpatched or otherwise vulnerable devices. Disruption of these endpoints causes significant problems for manufacturers and can jeopardize the entire operation. According to the Trend Micro 2020 annual cybersecurity report, the manufacturing industry became a primary target for highly infectious ransomware attacks, making it more important than ever to secure these assets with technologies tailored to their purpose (https://www.trendmicro.com/vinfo/us/security/research-and-analysis/threat-reports/roundup/a-constant-state-of-flux-trend-micro-2020-annual-cybersecurity-report).

"The ugly truth of ICS endpoint security is that there has not been any security solution specifically designed for the high-availability needs of modernized equipment in the OT environment," said Akihiko Omikawa, executive vice president of IoT security for Trend Micro and chairman of TXOne Networks. "Cybersecurity solutions for ICS endpoints must consider three elements to meet industry expectations: low impact to performance, zero interruption, and all-terrain protection."

The unique needs of the shop floor environment create challenges to finding protections that secure the work site while still giving the necessary priority to performance. Traditional solutions, such as signature-based antivirus, can identify known threats but require constant internet connectivity and frequent updates, which is simply not possible for mission critical assets. Advanced machine learning-based solutions are able to identify anomalies and unknown threats quickly, but have a high rate of producing false positives that can easily interfere with operations. While application control or lockdown-based solutions are more streamlined and their trust list makes deployment straightforward, they also rigidly limit a machine to a specific purpose and so are only ideal for fixed-use systems. These single technology solutions serve many useful purposes, however are unable to provide the adaptivity necessary to both safeguard and accommodate the operational integrity of assets dedicated to production.

TXOne StellarProtect delivers uniquely ICS-native endpoint protection against both known and unknown malware via machine learning and ICS root of trust. To avoid redundant security scans and ensure minimal impact to performance, ICS root of trust collects over 1,000 ICS software certificates and licenses and verifies them in advance. StellarProtect requires no internet connection to defend against malware-free attacks due to its least privilege-based policies. Operational interruption from malicious attacks or even mis-operation by personnel is prevented by its built-in ICS application behavior learning engine.

"ICS endpoint security solutions must accommodate the needs of OT environments, not the other way around," said Dr. Terence Liu, General Manager for TXOne Networks. " TXOne StellarProtect is setting a new milestone for endpoint protection in ICS security. We look forward to helping customers mitigate cyber risk in their environments without any disruption or adjustments."

To find out more about Trend Micro's security solutions for the smart factory, please visit: https://www.trendmicro.com/en_us/business/solutions/iot/smart-factory.html.

To find out more about TXOne StellarProtect, please visit: https://www.txone-networks.com/en-global/products/index/stellarprotect

About Trend Micro

Trend Micro, a global cybersecurity leader, helps make the world safe for exchanging digital information. Fueled by decades of security expertise, global threat research, and continuous innovation, Trend Micro's cybersecurity platform protects hundreds of thousands of organizations and millions of individuals across clouds, networks, devices, and endpoints. As a leader in cloud and enterprise cybersecurity, the platform delivers a powerful range of advanced threat defense techniques optimized for environments like AWS, Microsoft, and Google, and central visibility for better, faster detection and response. With 7,000 employees across 65 countries, Trend Micro enables organizations to simplify and secure their connected world. TrendMicro.com .

About TXOne Networks

TXOne Networks is an Industrial IoT joint venture of Trend Micro Incorporated, a global leader in cybersecurity solutions, and Moxa, a leader in industrial communication and networking. TXOne Networks offers adaptive solutions to secure industrial machinery, ensuring the safety and reliability of industrial control networks from cyberattacks. www.txone-networks.com

SOURCE Trend Micro Incorporated

Related Links

www.trendmicro.com


BERWYN, Pa., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Triumph Group [NYSE:TGI] announced today that its Triumph Aviation Services Asia Ltd. (TASA) business has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Thai Aviation Industries Co., Ltd (TAI), a certified repair station under the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT). TASA is a subsidiary of Triumph Group, located in Chonburi, Thailand.

The MOU, executed at a ceremony presided over by Air Chief Marshal Supachai Saingurn, Managing Director of TAI, and Monty Richardson, President of TASA, commemorates both parties' intent to cooperate on a wide range of training, business development and maintenance services, including composite training for Diamond DA40 and DA62 aircraft maintenance, design of approval (DOA) support, testing, repair, calibration and overhaul of aircraft components, as well as new capability development in aircraft structures and satellites.

"The establishment of this MOU is an important milestone for both TASA and TAI, marking the continuation of the cooperative relationship that Triumph Group is advocating with our local and regional Asia-Pacific partners and customers," said Richardson. "This is a key foundation for mutual understanding and leveraging of our individual and organizational strengths and capabilities."

Thai Aviation Industries Co., Ltd., Thailand's premier international MRO, has various capabilities including aircraft maintenance up to O-level, component repair and overhaul of piston engines and propellers, aircraft parts and logistics support, NDI service up to level-3 and an ISO 17025 standard tools and equipment calibration shop. More information about TAI can be found at http://taithailand.com

Triumph Aviation Services-Asia, Ltd., a two-time Boeing Silver Performance Excellence awardee and the first Thailand-based MRO station to receive EASA DOA Part 21J approval for nacelle components design and validation, conducts repairs and overhauls a wide range of complex aircraft structures and components such as engine nacelles, flight control surfaces and various aircraft accessories. More information about TASA can be found at https://www.tasa-aviation-apac.com/

Triumph Group, Inc., headquartered in Berwyn, Pennsylvania, designs, engineers, manufactures, repairs and overhauls a broad portfolio of aerospace and defense systems, components and structures. The company serves the global aviation industry, including original equipment manufacturers and the full spectrum of military and commercial aircraft operators.

More information about Triumph can be found on the company's website at www.triumphgroup.com.

SOURCE Triumph Group

Related Links

www.triumphgroup.com


OMAHA, Neb., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Union Pacific today published its 2020 Building America Report, the railroad's annual report on its progress toward environmental, social and governance (ESG) initiatives. The report unveils Union Pacific's new cumulative ESG strategy called Building a Sustainable Future 2030, which includes four areas of concentration: Investing in our Workforce, Driving Sustainable Solutions, Championing Environmental Stewardship and Strengthening our Communities.

"The COVID-19 pandemic taught the world about resiliency, something that's always been a part of our railroad's DNA," said Union Pacific Chairman, President and CEO Lance Fritz. "As a critical part of America's infrastructure, our ability to quickly respond to customers' evolving needs will continue to be critical long into the future as we face the impacts of climate change, social injustice and other global crises."

The report includes the following:

Investing in our Workforce

Detailed information about Union Pacific's entire workforce that is more comprehensive and covers a greater portion of our employee base than the EEO-1 report.

New initiatives to build a diverse, inclusive workforce that reflects the communities where Union Pacific operates.

Driving Sustainable Solutions

Union Pacific's $2.8 billion investment to harden its infrastructure and support growing customer and community needs.

investment to harden its infrastructure and support growing customer and community needs. A record for moving wind turbine components.

Championing Environmental Stewardship

The railroad's targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, approved by the Science Based Targets Initiative in Jan. 2021 .

. Union Pacific's role helping a community recycle more than 1.2 million plastic bottle caps.

Strengthening our Communities

COVID-19 relief for communities through the Community Ties Giving Program.

Union Pacific's $423 million spend on goods and services from more than 275 diverse suppliers in 35 states.

The 2020 Building America Report is the first to include the company's Fact Book, which includes additional explanatory information that is relevant to investors.

ABOUT UNION PACIFIC

Union Pacific (NYSE: UNP) delivers the goods families and businesses use every day with safe, reliable and efficient service. Operating in 23 western states, the company connects its customers and communities to the global economy. Trains are the most environmentally responsible way to move freight, helping Union Pacific protect future generations. More information about Union Pacific is available at www.up.com .

www.up.com

www.facebook.com/unionpacific

www.twitter.com/unionpacific

SOURCE Union Pacific Corporation

Related Links

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NEW YORK, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Via, the leader in TransitTech, today brought an action for willful patent infringement against RideCo, a provider of transit software and solutions. Via filed the claim to protect the company's intellectual property and prevent unfair competition by RideCo.

The complaint, filed today in federal court in the Western District of Texas, asserts that RideCo has been intentionally infringing on Via's patents, and specifically, Via's patented Virtual Bus Stop technology for efficient, on-demand dynamic routing for shared ride vehicles (U.S. Patent Nos. 9,562,785, 9,816,824, 10,197,411, 10,677,604), to unfairly improve its competitive position in RfP responses and other public procurements.

According to the complaint, RideCo never sought or secured a license to use Via's patented technology. Therefore, its use of Via's patents has been unauthorized and unlawful. Since 2012, Via has been working to reinvent public transit using the proprietary and innovative on-demand transit technology that it has developed over nine years. The suit alleges that RideCo's willful infringement of Via's proprietary patented technology has damaged Via through lost revenue and licensing fees, as well as creating reputational harm.

In addition, the complaint asserts that RideCo has falsely advertised its technology and services to prospective partners as substantially similar to Via's technology and services. As part of its effort to style itself as a copy of Via's services and products, the complaint states, RideCo has blatantly copied Via's marketing and communications, in everything from trade dress to its description of the company's services.

The complaint states that RideCo has been marketing and advertising transportation services based on an inferior copy of Via's technology at artificially discounted rates, i.e., rates that would be much higher if it had to pay licensing fees for the use of Via's patented technology. This creates unfair competition in the multi-billion dollar TransitTech category, which Via pioneered, as RideCo does not have to absorb the costs associated with inventing and developing these innovative products. Further, RideCo continues to target Via's customers with a copy-cat product, to the detriment of Via and its customers.

"Via was compelled to take action due to RideCo's clear, ongoing, and unlawful infringement of Via's innovative patented technology," said Charles K. Verhoeven, counsel for Via and co-chair of Quinn Emanuel's National Intellectual Property Litigation Practice. "RideCo not only has copied Via's patented technology, its very name and logo mimic Via's trade dress colors and map pin logo, all in a clear effort to lure customers into utilizing its infringing version of Via's technology."

About Via:

Founded in 2012, Via pioneered the TransitTech category by using new technologies to power public mobility systems, optimizing networks of dynamic shuttles, buses, wheelchair accessible vehicles, school buses, and autonomous vehicles around the globe. Building the world's most efficient, equitable, and sustainable transportation network for all riders  including those with limited mobility, those without smartphones, and unbanked populations  Via works with its partners to lower the cost of public transit and provide accessible options that rival the convenience of a personal car at a much reduced environmental impact. At the intersection of transportation and technology, Via is a visionary market leader that combines software innovation with sophisticated service design and operational expertise to fundamentally improve the way the world moves, with 200 global partners on six continents, and counting.

SOURCE Via

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https://ridewithvia.com/


WASHINGTON, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Sen. Bill Nelson took office as the 14th administrator of NASA Monday, after he was given the oath of office by Vice President Kamala Harris during a ceremony at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building in Washington.

In his new role at NASA, Nelson will lead the nation's space program as it carries out critical missions, including landing the first woman and first person of color on the Moon with the Artemis program, expanding climate change research, fostering innovation and enhancing the U.S. economy and STEM workforce.

"It's an honor to be sworn in by Vice President Harris to serve as NASA administrator, and I look forward to a continued, strong relationship with her as chair of the National Space Council," Nelson said after the ceremony. "I want to thank Steve Jurczyk for his leadership as Acting Administrator over the past few months, helping to carry out the Biden-Harris Administration's priorities and ensure the success of NASA's goals and missions. You've seen the incredible accomplishments at NASA over the past 100 or so days  the proof is in the pudding."

As part of the swearing-in ceremony, Vice President Harris and Nelson were joined via video conference by Jim Bridenstine, who preceded Nelson as administrator, and in-person by Charles F. Bolden, who served as administrator from 2009 to 2017. Nelson's family and Pam Melroy, nominee for NASA deputy administrator, were guests at the ceremony.

"I was glad to be joined today by my rock, my wife, Grace, my children, deputy administrator nominee Col. Pam Melroy, and former NASA Administrators Charlie Bolden and Jim Bridenstine, whose standing with me symbolizes the continuity of purpose and bipartisanship," Nelson said. "It's an incredible time for the aerospace sector, and I'm excited to lead NASA's workforce into an exciting future!"

"Congratulations, Mr. Administrator, for all the work you've done and all you've dedicated to our country," Vice President Harris said. "I couldn't agree more that this has to be about our nation and what is best for our nation, unencumbered by partisan politics, but based on what we know is the right thing to do."

The U.S. Senate confirmed Nelson to serve as the NASA administrator April 29.

Nelson has an extensive history of working with NASA and has been integral to the agency's current successes. Prior to his nomination, was a member-at-large on NASA's advisory council. From 2001 to 2019, Nelson represented Florida in the U.S. Senate, where he served as ranking member of the Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation and led its Subcommittee on Science and Space.

Previously, Nelson represented Florida's 9th and 11th districts in the U.S. House of Representatives. While chair of the House space subcommittee, Nelson flew aboard the space shuttle Columbia as a payload specialist on the STS-61C mission in 1986, where he conducted 12 medical experiments including the first American stress test in space and a cancer research experiment sponsored by university researchers. The mission also included Bolden, as pilot.

Read Nelson's official biography at:

https://www.nasa.gov/feature/nasa-administrator-bill-nelson/

For information about NASA's research, missions, and activities, visit:

https://www.nasa.gov

SOURCE NASA

Related Links

http://www.nasa.gov


SANDY, Utah, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Bituminous coal producer Wolverine Fuels, LLC ("Wolverine"), which is majority-owned by the Galena Private Equity Resources Fund, has announced that James (Jim) Grech has resigned from Wolverine to accept the role of Chief Executive Officer and President of Peabody Energy Corporation, and that effective immediately, each of Carson Pollastro, Wolverine's Chief Operating Officer, and Marc Maglione, Wolverine's Chief Financial Officer, have assumed Mr. Grech's responsibilities. Mr. Grech will remain with Wolverine until May 21, 2021 to assist with the transition.

Effective immediately, Mr. Pollastro will be promoted to Chief Executive Officer of Wolverine and will continue to manage the company's operations and, together with Wolverine's Board of Directors, will lead Wolverine's strategic vision.

Effective immediately, Mr. Maglione will continue to serve as Wolverine's Chief Financial Officer and oversee Wolverine's financial and supply chain functions, along with the company's commercial and logistics activities. Garrett Atwood will continue in his role as Wolverine's Vice President of Commercial Operations.

Effective immediately, Messrs. Pollastro and Maglione will also be appointed to serve as directors on Wolverine's Board of Directors.

"We thank Jim for his service to Wolverine and wish him the best in his future endeavors at Peabody," said Carlos Pons, a member of Wolverine's Board of Directors. "At the same time, we are excited about the future of Wolverine and believe strongly that our management team will continue to create value for Wolverine's customers, business partners and shareholders."

Based in Sandy, Utah, Wolverine employs over 830 employees and has an annual productive capacity of approximately 11-13 million tons of high-quality thermal coal that is supplied to the Western US power generation industry and the Pacific export market.

SOURCE Wolverine Fuels, LLC

Related Links

http://www.wolverinefuels.com


Through the "Wonder of Science" initiative, Calandrelli joined a number of middle and high school virtual classrooms to demonstrate science experiments and answer questions about her career and experiences as a scientist and educator. At the end of each event, Emily announced that Wonder Bread has donated $10,000 to their school to improve STEM education and ease the financial burden on teachers who may purchase their own classroom supplies.

"There was no better way to celebrate our 100th anniversary than to pay it forward to teachers and students with the help of our partners, Emily and AdoptAClassroom.org," said John Steed, senior vice president of legacy brands at Flowers Foods. "Wonder Bread is proud to be a part of countless childhood memories, and we're dedicated to promoting the sense of wonder that comes with learning about the world as a child. Our hope is that each of these events we've put together throughout the year so far will inspire kids to be curious and learn more."

Kids and parents across the nation were also invited to tune in to free virtual livestream events with Emily Calandrelli where she demonstrated additional experiments and showed how to safely conduct them at home.

Wonder Bread donated a total of $100,000 to AdoptAClassroom to benefit the schools that participated in the virtual events with Calandrelli. Schools from Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Georgia, New York, and more have been given $10,000 each to improve their science programs and provide new equipment for students and faculty.

"Partnering with Wonder Bread and Emily Calandrelli to benefit science programs across the country is exactly the type of unique initiative that we love to be a part of," said Ann Pifer, executive director of AdoptAClassroom.org. "We're looking forward to seeing the real-world impact that this donation and these events have on the students who have been a part of the campaign. STEM Is a critical piece of our education system that we always want to do more to help improve."

For more details on the campaign and its impact on students, visit wonderbread.com/anniversary or follow @WonderBreadUSA, @TheSpaceGal, and @Adopt_Classroom.

About Wonder Bread

Founded in 1921 in Indianapolis, Indiana, Wonder Bread is credited with the popularization of sliced bread in the U.S. and captures the "wonder" that founder Elmer Cline experienced when first watching a hot air balloon race. A century later, Wonder Bread remains an iconic brand in lunchrooms, at barbecues, at picnics and in lunch boxes across the country.

About Flowers Foods

Headquartered in Thomasville, Georgia, Flowers Foods, Inc. (NYSE: FLO) is one of the largest producers of packaged bakery foods in the United States, with 2019 sales of $4.1 billion. Flowers Foods operates bakeries across the country that produce a wide range of bakery products. Among the company's top brands are Nature's Own, Dave's Killer Bread, Wonder and Tastykake. Learn more at flowersfoods.com.

About AdoptAClassroom.org

We are a national, award-winning nonprofit that provides the most flexible and accountable funding for PreK-12 teachers and schools throughout the U.S. Our proprietary, easy-to-use education fundraising platform helps teachers, principals, and administrators give every child the tools they deserve to succeed in school. Since 1998, we have raised $50 million and supported 5.5 million students. As a 501(c)(3) organization, we hold a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and a platinum rating of transparency from GuideStar. For more information, or to make a donation, please visit www.adoptaclassroom.org.

SOURCE Wonder Bread

Related Links

https://www.wonderbread.com


The eight-year campaign - Every Last One  is more vital than ever as the world's poor are reeling from the aftershocks of the COVID-19 pandemic with extreme poverty rising for the first time in 22 years. The World Bank predicted that COVID-19 will add as many as 150 million extreme poor this year, half of them children. Meanwhile, conflict, COVID-19 and climate shocks are fueling global hunger and food insecurity at alarming rates, with the World Food Program warning of "famines of Biblical proportions."

Amid this suffering, World Vision's staff also are seeing child marriage and violence against women and girls on the rise. The essential community development programs that make up Every Last One work together to respond to these needs in areas where World Vision works, and its focus on empowering women and girls is integrated into everything it does.

The campaign invites Christian philanthropists to support seven key areas of development through multi-year programs in over 50 countries. These include giving 25 million people access to clean water - a cornerstone of World Vision's poverty-fighting programs - and providing vital healthcare for mothers and their children, including nutrition support and treatment to two million pregnant women, newborns and children under five.

Every Last One also aims to offer emergency assistance to 16 million people when disasters and humanitarian crises strike; protect children from violence, and provide parents, teachers and Christian leaders with training and resources for children to discover their faith in Jesus.

The campaign also will provide educational opportunities such as literacy programs for children, targeting one million people with books and training. It also aims to empower 4.4 million people with resilient livelihoods by providing recovery loans for families affected by COVID-19 and teaching better farming techniques to equip families to anticipate and overcome economic and weather-related shocks, ultimately improving livelihoods.

"For 70 years, wherever and whenever people were hurting, World Vision and our donors have come to their aid," said Edgar Sandoval Sr., World Vision's president and CEO. "The COVID-19 pandemic is our generation's Vietnamese refugee crisis, Ethiopian famine, Rwandan genocide, or HIV/AIDs crisis. This is the most ambitious initiative that we've ever launched, but we are God's people. This is God's ministry. And this is our time."

World Vision operates its development programs in nearly 100 countries around the world. Monthly donors also empower communities through its popular child sponsorship model. The organization leverages gifts  large cash donations, corporate gifts-in-kind, and public grants to maximize impact.

Major capital campaigns like Every Last One are a catalyst to this work. Investments from thousands of philanthropists, corporations and foundations build on World Vision's proven development expertise and its commitment to lasting change in the communities it serves. World Vision typically works in a country for an average of 12-18 years, developing long-term solutions and assisting communities to own their development outcomes by partnering with local leaders and community members.

World Vision sees providing access to clean water as a crucial weapon in the fight against poverty since it solves many of the factors that keep a family impoverished such as poor nutrition, health and the inability to earn an income. The organization is the largest non-governmental provider of clean water in the developing world, reaching one new person every 10 seconds and three more schools every day. In February it announced it met its goal of bringing clean water to 20 million people worldwide.

The new campaign will bring clean water to additional 25 million people, halfway towards World Vision's ambitious goal of bringing clean water to everyone, everywhere they work by 2030, or 50 million people.

"With the support of our donors, we have seen meaningful progress in the fight against extreme poverty, but COVID-19 threatens to undo it, especially in the toughest places in our world," Sandoval said. "Through our Every Last One campaign we're envisioning lasting change, leaning into our proven, comprehensive solutions that bring life, hope, and a future to the world's most vulnerable people, each precious in God's sight."

About World Vision:

World Vision is a Christian humanitarian organization conducting relief, development, and advocacy activities in its work with children, families, and their communities in nearly 100 countries to help them reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty and injustice. World Vision serves all people regardless of religion, race, ethnicity, or gender. For more information, please visit www.WorldVision.org/media-center/ or on Twitter @WorldVisionUSA.

SOURCE World Vision U.S.

Related Links

http://www.worldvision.org


Dhaka, May 3 : Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has said the Covid-19 vaccines will be procured by her government at any cost to fight the second wave of pandemic in the country.

An amount of over 1,500 crore Bangladeshi Takas has been allocated to ease the sufferings of marginalised people by the government.

The Prime Minister has urged all to strictly follow health guidelines for themselves and others, regardless of whether they have taken the vaccine or not.

Hasina virtually inaugurated the disbursement of financial assistance for marginalised families from her official residence Gana Bhaban.

She has also provided a cash support of 2,500 Bangladeshi Takas to each of 36.5 lakh low-income families engaged in different occupations so that they can survive amid the pandemic.

Soon after the second wave of the virus emerged, the Prime Minister directed to start the activities of humanitarian assistance.

On Sunday, she reaffirmed that her government will procure vaccines at any cost to protect people from Covid-19, saying: "We're bringing more vaccines; no matter how much money is required, we'll bring more vaccines." Each family will directly receive 2,500 Bangladeshi Takas as G2P (Government-to-Person) transaction through mobile financial services (MFS) -- Nagad, bKash, Rocket, and SureCash.

Later, the Prime Minister also spoke to various people, including beneficiaries of the cash support programme in Bhola, Joypurhat, and Chattogram districts.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
City Council To Hold Meeting Tuesday Evening The Hillsboro City Council will meet in a regular session Tuesday, May 4, at 6 p.m.



The council is expected to deliberate on a Planning and Zoning Commission recommendation to vacate and abandon a 20-foot alley adjacent to 605 South Park Street.



A Planning and Zoning Commission recommendation to add indoor amusement center as a permitted use in the zoning ordinance for the Central Business District will also be considered.



A resolution authorizing the city's participation in the grant program for the Texas Department of Transportation's Click-it-or-Ticket program is also on the agenda.



The meeting will be held at Historic City Hall, located at 127 East Franklin Street in Hillsboro. It can also be accessed by calling 1-646-749-3112 and entering access code 172-523-125.


Yangon, May 3 : A batch of Covid-19 vaccines donated by the Chinese government has arrived at the Yangon International Airport, according to a release from the Chinese embassy.

The donated vaccines, promised by China earlier this year, was handed over at a critical stage of prevention and control against the pandemic, demonstrating the "Paukphaw" (fraternal) friendship and spirit of a community with a shared future, said the embassy on Sunday, hoping that the vaccines can help protect life and health of Myanmar people and combat the pandemic, Xinhua reported.

Since the outbreak of Covid-19, China and Myanmar have carried out effective cooperation, with China not only donating medicines and equipment, but also sending medical experts to assist Myanmar in combating the pandemic.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Ramallah, May 3 : Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has called for a new round of intra-national dialogue to discuss the possibility of forming a unity government, his spokesman Nabil Abu Rudeineh said.

Palestinian factions will "start soon an intra-national dialogue regarding the formation of a unity government that will bear its responsibilities in the coming stage", Xinhua news agency quoted the spokesman as saying in a statement.

The announcement came after Abbas issued a decree to postpone the general elections in the Palestinian territories, prompting backlashes against the President from other factions.

On April 30, Abbas announced in a televised speech that the 2021 general elections scheduled for May 22 were postponed until further notice and "until the participation of our people in East Jerusalem is guaranteed".

Azzam al-Ahmad, member of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO)'s executive committee, told state radio Voice of Palestine on Saturday that the leadership "will be ready to set up a new date for holding the elections, if Israel agrees to hold them in East Jerusalem".

Al-Ahmad called on the international community "to play a positive role toward holding the Palestinian elections by exerting pressure on Israel to abide by the agreements it signed with the Palestinians".

The issue of East Jerusalem, which was occupied by Israel in 1967, is one of the most sensitive issues for the Palestinians, who wanted it to be the capital of their future independent Palestinian state.

Israel does not allow the Palestinian Authority to carry out political activities in the city.

However, according to the Oslo peace accords signed with Israel, the Palestinians in East Jerusalem are allowed to vote at the Israeli post offices in the city.

In January, Abbas announced the 2021 general elections will include the legislative elections on May 22, the presidential elections on July 31, and the elections of the Palestinian National Council, the highest decision-making body of the PLO, on August 31.
Vienna, May 3 : Tehran's senior negotiator in the ongoing Vienna talks aimed at reviving the 2015 Iranian nuclear deal said that negotiating parties have reached "common ground in many cases", but there were still differences.

Remaining parties to the 2015 nuclear deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), namely Iran, the UK, China, France, Russia and Germany still have disagreements, but as a result of consultations, these points of differences have become clearer, Abbas Araqchi, also Iranian deputy foreign minister, was quoted as saying.

At the latest round of talks in Vienna, which started on April 27, negotiations were held at various levels and formats, and "they were very intensive", Araqchi said.

On May 1, "we decided to pause (the talks) to summarize the discussions", he added.

In some areas, "we have started writing the text, which is done very slowly", as the work requires precision, he said, adding the trend is moving forward.

Based on the JCPOA, Iran agreed in 2015 to roll back parts of its nuclear program in exchange for decreased economic sanctions.

However, Iran has gradually stopped implementing parts of its JCPOA commitments since May 2019, one year after the former US President Donald Trump's administration unilaterally withdrew from the agreement and re-imposed sanctions on the Islamic Republic.
Lucknow, May 3 : With a spurt in Covid cases, particularly in the rural areas, the Yogi Adityanath government in Uttar Pradesh has decided to stop the inter-state bus service with immediate effect.

"The buses of Uttar Pradesh Transport Corporation will no longer be sent to other states," said Additional Chief Secretary Information Navneet Sehgal.

He did not clarify whether buses from other states will be allowed to enter the state.

He, however, said that intra-state bus services will continue with Covid norms of 50 per cent of seating capacity.

There is a continuous inflow of migrant labourers from other states to Uttar Pradesh. The state roadways buses were being used to bring them to Uttar Pradesh and then were being sent to different villages. People are coming from trains from Mumbai and Gujarat.

"We have set up Covid help desks at every bus stand and railway stations to check the health of the people coming from other states. If found sick, they are being given medicines and are being quarantined," the official said.

The government will start a testing campaign in all the revenue villages from May 4.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Sanaa, May 3 : Forces loyal to Yemen's government and the Houthi rebels conducted a prisoner exchange in the country's northern province of Marib, a local official said here.

The official told Xinhua news agency on Sunday that 18 detainees were released as part of a prisoner exchange between the two warring sides fighting over the control of the strategic oil-rich province of Marib.

The source said that the government forces and the Houthi rebels exchanged prisoners through efforts exerted by local tribal mediators.

He clarified that nine prisoners were released by government troops, while nine others were released by the rebel group.

Yemen's local tribal mediators have more than once succeeded in brokering prisoner exchanges between government forces and the Houthis in different areas of the war-torn Arab country.

The Houthis have been beefing up the offensive in Marib since early February, which led to a slew of intense fighting between the rebels and government forces, killing hundreds on each side.

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs said this week that nearly 20,000 people have been displaced by violence in the region since early February, and dozens of civilians have been killed or injured.

Yemen has been mired in a civil war since late 2014 when the Iran-backed Houthi rebels seized control of several northern provinces and forced the Saudi-backed government of President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi out of the capital Sanaa.

The Saudi-led coalition intervened in the Yemeni military conflict in March 2015 to support Hadi's government.
Lisbon, May 3 : The Portuguese government has extended travel restrictions to and from countries, including India, that are most affected by the Covid-19 pandemic until May 16.

According to the Ministry of Internal Administration, for travellers to and from countries with a Covid-19 incidence rate equal to or greater than 500 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, only flights considered essential are allowed, for example, for professional, study, family reunion, health and humanitarian reasons, Xinhua news agency.

Besides India, Cyprus, Croatia, Brazil, France, Lithuania, the Netherlands, South Africa, and Sweden are included in this category.

Travellers from these countries have to undergo 14 days of quarantine after arrival.

For countries with an incidence rate equal to or greater than 150 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, people may travel to Portugal for essential journeys, but they don't need to do quarantine.

Any traveller who arrives in Portugal by air, except for children under 2 years of age, must present a negative PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test performed within 72 hours prior to departure, according to the ministry.

The extension of travel restrictions came a day after Portugal ended the "state of emergency", with the reopening of land borders with Spain and the expansion of the service hours of shops and restaurants.

The "state of emergency," which has been in force since November 9, 2020, is the highest level of civil protection in the country.

It has been renewed 15 times to contain the spread of the coronavirus in Portugal.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Seoul, May 3 : In a warning, North Korea said the US "will face worse and worse crisis" after American President Joe Biden called Pyongyang's nuclear program a "serious threat", according to a state media report.

Kwon Jong Gun, director general of the Department of US Affairs of the Foreign Ministry, said in a statement on Sunday that Biden made a slip of the tongue last week about North Korea in his first Congressional speech in which he called Pyongyang a "serious threat" to the security of the US and the world, reports Pyongyang's official KCNA news.

"His statement clearly reflects his intent to keep enforcing the hostile policy toward the DPRK as it had been done by the US for over half a century," Xinhua news agency quoted Kwon as saying in the statement published by KCNA "The US will face worse and worse crisis beyond control in the near future if it is set to approach the bilateral ties, still holding on the outdated policy from Cold War-minded perspective and viewpoint.

"Now that what the keynote of the US' new North Korean policy has become clear, we will be compelled to press for corresponding measures, and with time the US will find itself in a very grave situation," he added Kwon also said the US-claimed "diplomacy" is a spurious signboard for covering up its hostile acts, and the "deterrence" touted by it "is just a means for posing nuclear threats" to Pyongyang.

In a separate statement issued on Sunday, the North Korean Foreign Ministry also slammed Washington for criticizing the country's human rights record, saying it amounts to insulting the "dignity of our supreme leadership".

Last week, US State Department spokesperson Ned Price released a statement in which he "smeared the statewide anti-epidemic measures in the DPRK" for protecting the life and security of the people from the worldwide Covid-19 pandemic as "human rights abuses" and "even faulted the dignity of our supreme leadership", the Ministry said.

As the US openly expressed its intention to stifle North Korea with a "resolute deterrence", "denying our ideology and social system and abusing the 'human rights' as a tool for interference in our internal affairs and a political weapon for overturning our social system, we will be forced to take corresponding measures", it added.
Meerut : , May 3 (IANS) A middle-aged man died in the ambulance, waiting for medical attention at the Lala Lajpat Rai Medical (LLRM) College in Meerut.

Devendra Singh, 45, a resident of Ganganagar area in Meerut was rushed to the emergency ward of the hospital on Sunday.

Devendra's condition deteriorated in the morning. He was on oxygen support in the ambulance when he breathed his last.

Heart-wrenching visuals of Devendra lying dead in the ambulance and family members trying to calm down his inconsolable wife, who lost consciousness, have surfaced on social media.

"We had been waiting here for over an hour but there was no one to attend. We got the registration done and spoke to doctors, who said there is neither any bed nor oxygen available. They (doctors) asked us to take our patient somewhere else," said a family member.

Dr Gyanendra Kumar, principal of the LLRM College claimed the hospital has been swamped with patients but no one has been turned away.

"Our emergency has a capacity of 55-50 beds but we have been taking 123-150 patients. We have been administering treatment to patients on the floor. Arrangements may take some time but we have not been denying admission," he said.

Hospital officials claimed there is a huge rush of patients since the second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic not only from Meerut but neighbouring districts like Muzaffarnagar, Shamli, Saharanpur and NCR and they have been accommodated in the hospital despite limited resources.

The LLRM hospital was recently in news following a brawl between junior doctors and sanitation staff over packing of bodies.

A group of sanitation staff had allegedly vandalized hospital property and roughed up some junior doctors during the incident.
May 03 : Aamir Khan, who has been trying to make his upcoming film Laal Singh Chaddha for the last 18 years, is keen to release the film in December 2021 as was planned initially. However, the actor has been facing several hurdles to complete the shoot amid the second wave of the coronavirus pandemic.

Shooting for Aamirs dream project has been going on for quite some time now, and fans are eagerly awaiting the film to release. Recently, Telugu star Naga Chaitanya has been roped in to play an important role in the film. He has replaced Vijay Sethupathi in the film.

Now Aamir is in a hurry to complete the film. Recently, his pictures doing recce in Ladakh and Kargil areas for his film went viral on social media. Naga Chaitanya will join Aamir in the next schedule of the film, which will likely take place in Ladakh and Kargil areas. The schedule will reportedly last for about 45 days.

Aamir Khan to shoot final schedule of 'Laal Singh Chaddha' in Kargil. The film touted to be one of the most anticipated films this year. Interestingly. @KareenaUpdates @KareenaK_FC @Bollyhungama pic.twitter.com/zfqDZafOAR  Jigmat Ladakhi  (@nontsay) May 1, 2021

Laal Singh Chaddha is a comedy drama film directed by Advait Chandan and written by Atul Kulkarni. It is backed by Aamir Khan Productions, Viacom18 Studios and Paramount Pictures. The film is an official adaptation of the 1994 American film Forrest Gump, which is based on Winston Groom's 1986 novel of the same name. The film stars Aamir Khan and Kareena Kapoor Khan.

Aamir Khan bought the rights of the film in 2018 and announced the film officially in March 2019. Laal Singh Chaddha has been filmed in more than 100 Indian locations. While filming was halted in March 2020 due to COVID-19 pandemic, the films initial scheduled for Christmas 2020 was postponed by an entire year.

In an interview, talking about the problems he faced while shooting for Laal Singh Chaddha, Aamir Khan said that when they started shooting for the film, they came to know about Kareena Kapoor's pregnancy. While Kareena completed her portions of the shoot, the filming was halted once again when Aamir was tested positive with COVID-19. After recovering from the virus, Aamir now makes one more attempt to complete the film.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Dhaka, May 3 : At least 18 people were killed on Monday after a sand-laden bulk carrier and an overcrowded speedboat collided in Bangladesh's Padma River, according to the police.

The police said the speedboat was heading to Shibchar Upazila in Madaripur from Munshiganj, reports bdnews24.

Officials have said that the death toll was expected to increase.


Vijayan submits resignation, gets ready for another term After etching new records in the political history of Kerala, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Monday drove to the Raj Bhavan and submitted his resignation to Governor Arif Mohammed Khan. Vijayan became the first to retain office after he led from the front and the Left Democratic Front (LDF) secured 99 seats, eight more than what they got in 2016.



Khan after receiving Vijayan's resignation asked him to be the caretaker Chief Minister.



The scene now shifts to the CPI-M party headquarters here when the state secretariat and state committee of the party meets to decide, the date and other things of Vijayan's second innings.



After that the LDF will meet and then Vijayan will drive back to the Raj Bhavan and submit all the required papers as per the law of the land, when Khan will invite him to be sworn in.



In all likelihood, it will be only next week that the Vijayan 2 version will take over.






Panaji, May 3 : A letter written by government resident doctors to a top health official, claiming that patients were dying in Goa's Covid facilities due to shortage of oxygen has triggered a political war of words in the state.

A day after the letter written by the Goa Association of Resident Doctors leaked into the public domain, the Congress has now demanded that Chief Minister Pramod Sawant should be booked for culpable homicide on account of the alleged deaths.

"It is shocking to know that the oxygen supply in various Covid wards is not even close to sufficient. There is no adequate supply of oxygen from the central system which hampers effective functioning of ventilators and other medical equipment," state Congress president Girish Chodankar said on Monday.

The Goa Medical College is the apex government health institute in the state. The letter written by the resident doctors' association was addressed to the dean of the medical college Dr Shivanand Bandekar.

"Government authorities need to book Chief Minister Pramod Sawant holding him responsible for deaths of innocent patients under culpable homicide," Chodankar also said.

In the letter, the resident doctors had complained about lack of oxygen beds at the Goa Medical College and that several patients had died in the facility due to lack of oxygen.

"The oxygen supply in various covid wards is not even close to sufficient. The central oxygen flow delivers very low flow oxygen at times and that is inadequate to keep NIVs and ventilators working effectively. Also, the oxygen cylinders being used for patients get over in the middle of the night and it takes at least 2-3 hours for replacement cylinders to come and sometimes more than that and for this time period, the patients are kept without oxygen with saturations dropping to less than 60 per cent," the letter said.

"In the middle of the night when oxygen gets over and patients worsen and sometimes die, it's the junior doctor on duty who has to face angry relatives," the letter also said.

Sawant claims that this government is looking to up oxygen generating capacities across the state.

"We will have the state's first oxygen generating plant in 15 days. We are ensuring there will be no shortage of oxygen," Sawant said.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Ankara, May 3 : The Turkish Health Ministry has announced that the country will not require a negative Covid-19 PCR test result for passengers from 16 countries starting from May 15 onwards.

The nations are China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Vietnam, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, the UK, Latvia, Luxembourg, Ukraine, Thailand, South Korea, Israel, Japan and Estonia, Xinhua news agency quoted the Ministry as saying on Sunday.

Turkey on Sunday reported 25,980 new coronavirus cases, including 2,587 symptomatic patients, raising the total number in the country to 4,875,388, according to the Ministry.

The death toll from the virus rose by 340 to 40,844, while the total recoveries climbed to 4,480,381 after 75,182 more recovered in the last 24 hours.

The rate of pneumonia in Covid-19 patients stands at 2.4 percent and the number of seriously ill patients is 3,532 in the country, said the Ministry.

A total of 240,145 tests were conducted over the past day, taking the overall number of tests in Turkey to 47,744,338.

Turkey started mass COVID-19 vaccination on January 14.

More than 13,815,000 people have been vaccinated so far.

Turkey reported its first Covid-19 case on March 11, 2020.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Baghdad, May 3 : Two Katyusha rockets were fired and targeted the Baghdad International Airport area, causing no casualties, the Iraqi military said.

The attack took place on Sunday evening when unidentified militiamen fired the two rockets, one of which landed on the edge of the airport in the southwest of the capital Baghdad, the media office of the Iraqi Joint Operations Command said in a statement.

The air defence in the area managed to shoot down the other rocket, Xinhua news agency quoted the statement as saying.

An Interior Ministry source told Xinhua that sirens wailed during the attack in a military base housing US forces near the airport, without giving more details.

No group has so far claimed responsibility for the attack.

The Iraqi military bases housing US troops across Iraq, as well as the American Embassy in the Green Zone, have been frequently targeted by mortar and rocket attacks.
San Diego, May 3 : Two people were killed and 23 others injured after a vessel overturned off the coast of the US city of San Diego, authorities said.

Multiple agencies including San Diego Lifeguards rescued 25 people from the water, said the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department tweeted on Sunday after the accident.

"Sadly, two did not survive. 23 were taken to local hospitals," the Department tweeted, adding that US federal agencies "are still searching the water in vessels and aircraft", reports Xinhua news agency.

The incident was reported near 200 Catalina Boulevard at around 10.30 a.m. on Sunday, the Department confirmed.

The vessel overturned in the waters off Point Loma, a rugged peninsula known for the Cabrillo National Monument, San Diego's only National Park.

Park officials said on Twitter after the incident that the tidepools of the park "are temporarily closed" and they "will post an update later today when the area reopens".

The city's Mayor Todd Gloria said on Twitter that the city's firefighters, lifeguards, and police are assisting the US Coast Guard and Port of San Diego Harbor Police in the rescue effort.

"I ask San Diegans to keep the boat's passengers in your prayers," he noted.

The details of the incident and the identities of the victims have not yet been made public by authorities.
Tripoli, May 3 : The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) said that some 95 illegal migrants rescued off the Libyan coast have returned to Tripoli.

"Some 95 persons have been intercepted/rescued at sea, and returned to Tripoli by the Libyan Coast Guard tonight," the UNHCR tweeted late Sunday.

"UNHCR and IRC (International Rescue Committee) are currently providing them with blankets, water, and medical assistance," the Agency added.

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) said that at least 11 illegal migrants drowned on Sunday when a rubber dinghy capsized off the coast of Zawiya city, some 45 km west of the capital Tripoli, reports Xinhua news agency.

Over the past few days, hundreds of illegal migrants have been rescued by the Libyan Coast Guard and returned to Libya, while many others drowned at sea.

Due to years of instability and unrest, Libya has become a preferred point of departure for thousands of migrants wanting to cross the Mediterranean Sea to reach European shores.

Rescued migrants end up inside overcrowded reception centres across Libya, despite repeated international calls to close those facilities.
25 dead body recovered some other missing in sand-laden bulkhead hit a speedboat in Madaripur of B'desh. Image Source: IANS News

25 dead body recovered some other missing in sand-laden bulkhead hit a speedboat in Madaripur of B'desh. Image Source: IANS News

25 dead body recovered some other missing in sand-laden bulkhead hit a speedboat in Madaripur of B'desh. Image Source: IANS News

Dhaka, May 3 : At least 27 people were killed, while five others were rescued following a head-on collision between an overcrowded speedboat and a sand-laden bulk carrier in Bangladesh's Padma River on Monday.

The accident took place at 7 a.m., while the speedboat was en route from Munshiganj's Shimulia to the Banglabazar pier in Madaripur.

Search operations are currently underway to locate more survivors, Md Rayhan, media official of the Fire Brigade and Civil Defense, told IANS.

Meanwhile, Rahima Khatun, Madaripur Deputy Commissioner, told bdnews24 that authorities have confirmed the identities of five of the dead, adding that the bodies will be turned over to their families.

Witnesses at the Shimulia port said that there were at least 30 passengers on board the speedboat.
Lucknow, May 3 : The Yogi Adityanath government has extended the closure in Uttar Pradesh up to May 6.

The closure which began on Friday night, was earlier to end on Tuesday morning.

The government spokesman said that during this closure, all shops and markets will remain closed but outlets selling essential items like vegetables, milk and dairy products will remain open.

The movement of public and private transport will remain prohibited. Medicine shops, gas agencies and petrol pumps will remain open.

Uttar Pradesh, on Sunday, recorded 290 more coronavirus deaths and 30,983 infections, the health department said.

There are 2.96 lakh active cases, according to a health bulletin.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has said that traders should give their active contribution in the war against coronavirus, which is ravaging the country.

Interacting virtually with the traders, Yogi Adityanath expressed hope that the fight against Covid-19 would be successful, according to a government statement.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Toronto, May 3 : Health Canada is set to pause the first batch of 300,000 Johnson & Johnson Covid-19 jabs after learning that a part of the vaccine was made in the same US plant where millions of doses were spoiled, the media reported.

The Candian government agency found that a "drug substance" needed to become the final J&J vaccine was made at the Emergent Biosolutions plant in Baltimore, Maryland, the globalnews.ca reported.

"The drug substance is the active ingredient that undergoes further processing before becoming the final product (i.e., the vaccine). The final Janssen vaccines were manufactured at a different site located outside of the US," the agency was quoted as saying in a statement.

The plant has been in news for several violations, including cleaning and sterilisation as well as the potential for cross-contamination. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has since ordered the facility to stop making more J&J vaccines until it addresses the violations and manufacturing errors, which resulted in 15 millions of those doses being destroyed, the report said.

Health Canada stated that it was working with Janssen and the FDA to assess the vaccines and they would only be released once they were deemed to be safe.

The agency also maintained confidence that the 1.5 million AstraZeneca vaccines also delivered to Canada from that plant in late March were still safe and met "quality specifications", the report said.

"Since issuing our statement [on AstraZeneca], Health Canada has learned that a drug substance produced at the Emergent site was used in the manufacturing of the initial Janssen vaccines received on April 28 and intended for use in Canada," read the statement.
New Delhi, May 3: Amidst India's burgeoning coronavirus crisis, Vietnam and other countries from the Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN) are stepping up aid to support India against the pandemic.

In a meeting with the Indian Ambassador Pranay Kumar Verma earlier this week in Hanoi, the deputy foreign minister of Vietnam pledged to provide medical support in the form of oxygen, medicines and drugs. The Indian ambassador and Vietnamese Deputy Foreign Minister Nguyen Quoc Dung also discussed India's engagement with ASEAN countries, particularly in the maritime domain.

The Vietnamese foreign office tweeted: "DFM #NguyenQuocDung received Mr Pranay Kumar Verma, #India Ambassador to #VietNam, expressed sympathy for the difficulties & damages caused by the #Covid19 in India. The DFM also expressed his belief that India will soon overcome this difficult & challenging time." A number of ASEAN countries are providing help to India. Supplies of cryogenic tanks as well as oxygen-related medical equipment arrived in India from Thailand on Saturday. Bangkok sent 15 oxygen concentrators while the Indian community in Thailand contributed another 15 oxygen concentrators.

Thanking Thailand, External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar said: "Discussed the Covid-19 challenge and international cooperation with Thai DPM and FM Don Pramudwinai. Appreciated the supplies of cryogenic tanks and other oxygen-related equipment. Confident that we can continue to count on our partnership with Thailand." Singapore too had provided oxygen cylinders to India. It sent the cylinders through two air force planes after a small ceremony at the Paya Lebar Air Base earlier this week. Singapore's Second Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Maliki Osman said: "The fighting spirit of the Indian people will prevail. We have witnessed India's immense capabilities in mobilising her people and resources when challenges arise. While our contribution is modest, we hope that it will bring comfort and relief to those in need and encourage those on the frontline in India, who are working tirelessly, to fight on".

Over the past few years, India is strengthening its relations with its eastern and south-eastern neighbours. Under its Act East Policy (AEP), it is not only improving diplomatic connectivity but also physical connectivity with countries like Myanmar and onwards. India is also trying to improve its economic and trade relations with the ASEAN block.

With Vietnam, India has a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, under which the two nations are cooperating in defence industries, the development sector as well as boosting trade and economy. India is also strengthening Vietnam's information technology sector. The two countries are closely cooperating over China-related strategic developments in the Indo-Pacific region as well.

(This content is being carried under an arrangement with indianarrative.com) --indianarrative/

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
New Delhi, May 3 : In a sharp attack on Election Commission of India, Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Mahua Moitra on Monday dubbed Nirvachan Sadan, the headquarter of the poll panel, as "new crematorium" in the national capital.

The Lok Sabha MP also took a dig at the commission, saying "constitutional body burnt here".

Moitra's remarks came a day after the Assembly poll results of four states and one Union Territory were declared on Sunday.

"Nirvachan Sadan is new crematorium in Delhi. Constitutional body burnt here," Moitra tweeted.

The latest updated figure on Election Commission's website shows TMC has won in 210 out of 292 seats in West Bengal, and it's trailing in three seats. However, the figures mention Bharatiya Janata Party's victory in 77 seats. One Independent candidate as well as one Rashtriya Secular Majlis Party candidate secured victory in the polls.
New Delhi, May 3: Nine months after making some amendments to the laws and rules governing the government employment, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinhas administration has begun the process of terminating the services of the government employees, allegedly indulging in anti-national activities in Jammu and Kashmir.

On 30 July 2020, Government of Jammu and Kashmir had amended the service rules and dispensed with the requirement of an enquiry for dismissal of the employees emerging as a threat to the security of the State. For the first time, the government had devised a mechanism to terminate the 'anti-national employees' without facing judicial scrutiny.

Principal Secretary Home and Additional Director General of Police Criminal Investigation Department were given sweeping powers to decide the fate of the employees reported to the government as a threat to the security of the State.

The General Administration Department with approval of the LG on Friday issued Government Order No: 400-JK (GAD) of 2021 Dated 30-04-2021, terminating the service of Idrees Jan, teacher at Government Middle School Kralpora in Kupwara district.

"Whereas the Lieutenant is satisfied after considering the facts and circumstances of the case and on the basis of the information available that the activities of Mr. Idrees Jan, Teacher Government Middle School, Kralpora, Kupwara are such as to warrant his dismissal from service; "And whereas, the Lieutenant Governor is satisfied under sub-clause (c) of the proviso to clause (2) of Article 311 of the Constitution of India that in the interest of the security of the State, it is not expedient to hold an enquiry in the case of Mr. Idrees Jan, Teacher, Government Middle School, Kralpora, Kupwara.

"Accordingly, the Lieutenant Governor hereby dismisses Mr. Idrees Jan, Teacher, Government Middle School, Kralpora, Kupwara from service, with immediate effect", reads the order issued on Friday.

On 21 April 2021, the Government had constituted a high level committee vide Order No: 355-JK (GAD) of 2021 for the purpose of scrutinising and processing the cases of the employees reported by the intelligence agency. ADG CID was appointed as its Chairman and Inspector General of Police Kashmir/Jammu and Additional Secretaries of the Law Department and the concerned department of the employee as members.

The Committee was given the responsibility to scrutinise cases of employees suspected of activities requiring action under Article 311(2)A of the Constitution of India, to compile record of such employees, wherever necessary and to refer it to the Committee constituted vide Government Order No: 738-JK(GAD) of 2020 Dated 30-07-2020 and to engage with other members of the Terror Monitoring Group (TMG) for identifying such other employees, as necessary.

"This is the first dismissal of an employee indulging in anti-national activities by the LG's government. More of such terminations will follow as the cases of 500 to 1000 government employees have been reported by the security and intelligence agencies", said a highly placed bureaucratic source. He said that previous political regimes had dismissed some of such 'anti-national employees' but the process had been left legally deficient and almost all of them had been reinstated under court orders.

"It is incredibly strange that even the Government employees' association had joined and operated for over 20 years as a constituent of the secessionist Hurriyat Conference. This cannot be tolerated by any responsible State", said a senior bureaucrat now working in the Jammu and Kashmir Government.

From the outbreak of militancy in 1989-90 to the street turmoil of 2016, the J&K government employees and their associations participated openly in the demonstrations and conferences organised by separatist and militant organisations. However, the senior ranks stood away from such activities after 1998.

In the very beginning of the militancy, the government employees sympathetic to the separatist cause managed signatures of almost all the top ranking bureaucrats on a resolution demanding Plebiscite in Jammu and Kashmir under the UN Security Council resolutions of 1948 and 1949.

Later in 1990, they proceeded on a 72-day shutdown of government offices and services when Governor Jagmohan terminated five senior officers for supporting the separatists and militants. However, they were all reinstated by Prime Minister Chandra Shekhar's government on persuasion of the two J&K politicians namely Farooq Abdullah and Saifuddin Soz. Bureaucrat-turned-politician Naeem Akhtar, who later resigned, joined Mufti Sayeed's Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and functioned as a Member of Legislative Council and a Cabinet Minister in the PDP-BJP government, was among the five officers.

Family members and relatives of the separatist leaders in the State government service were particularly promoted and placed on prize positions in some regimes from 2002 to 2019. Some of their close relatives were taken into the government services through the backdoor.

LG's government is reportedly in possession of reports about hundreds of the employees, including senior officers in Police and civil administration, who for years were publicly supporters of the separatists, militants and Pakistan. They seldom attended their offices or duties for over 25 years of the militancy. Besides, a number of the government employees picked up the gun and got guerrilla training and weapons from Pakistan. Simultaneously they continued to draw salaries from the State exchequer.

According to these reports, a large number of the militants joined back their government services or got fresh government jobs while managing to get character verification certificates from the Police and CID.

(This content is being carried under an arrangement with indianarrative.com) --indianarrative/
New Delhi, May 3 : Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has attacked the Union Government for policy paralysis, and said the government should face it and not fake it.

Rahul Gandhi tweeted, "A policy paralysed GOI cannot secure victory over the virus. Face it. Don't fake it." India continued to report a dip in the number of Covid cases with 3,68,147 fresh cases and 3,417 fatalities recorded in last 24 hours, Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said here on Monday.

It is the 12th straight day when India recorded more than 3 lakh cases while over 3,000 casualties have been reported for the past six days.

India's total tally of Covid-19 cases now stands at 1,99,25,604 with 34,13,642 active cases and a total of 2,18,959 deaths so far.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
New Delhi, May 3 : Mobile chip maker MediaTek is set to lead the global smartphone system-on-chip (SoC) market with 37 per cent share while Qualcomm will lead the global 5G smartphone SoC market with 30 per cent share, according to a new report.

MediaTek leveraging TSMC and its affordable 5G portfolio is well-positioned to almost double its market share in the 5G smartphone SoC/AP segment, according to Counterpoint Research.

"Together, MediaTek and Qualcomm occupy nearly two-thirds of the 5G smartphone SoC market demand, but the gap between the two has narrowed. Having said that, the foundry capacity will continue to remain tight till early 2022, before the next wave of CAPEX realises at the leading nodes," explained Research Analyst Parv Sharma.

The leading-edge nodes (7nm, 6nm and 5n) will account for almost half of the smartphone shipment volume during 2021 while 5G AP/SoC chipset volumes will more than double annually in 2021.

"MediaTek is likely to continue its Q4 2020 momentum into 2021 and likely to capture 37 per cent unit share of all the smartphone AP/SoC shipped for the full the year. Further, MediaTek in the first half of 2021 will benefit from Qualcomm's current supply constraints," explained Research Director Dale Gai.

However, Qualcomm is set to bounce back strongly in H2 2021, firstly by securing greater capacity at TSMC to boost its 5G-centric tiered Snapdragon portfolio.

"Secondly, taking key steps to improve the supply of PMICs and RFICs should alleviate the supply constraints in coming months. This will allow Qualcomm to maintain its leadership in 5G SoC market and overall market share of 31 per cent still growing annually," Gai said in a statement.

According to Sharma, Qualcomm's market share in 5G segment would have been even higher if it did not face the unfortunate supply constraints in the first half of 2021.
New Delhi, May 3 : Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has denied sharing information to controversial IPS Officer Amitabh Thakur regarding his compulsory retirement, saying "it cannot be provided".

The MHA has denied the information under section 8(1)(i) of the RTI Act, 2005.

Disagreeing with the decision, Amitabh Thakur has preferred first appeal saying that decision has already been made in this case and hence denial under section 8(1)(i) is not correct, said Nutan Thakur, wife of the former IPS officer.

"Amitabh also called denial of information related with his livelihood as being against the basic spirit of the RTI Act," Nutan told IANS on phone.

Thakur got the reply in Hindi from the MHA on April 26 against his three questions sought from the Ministry through RTI. The former IPS had also submitted the RTI query in Hindi.

The Home Ministry officials refused to comment over the issue when asked and said that they are not aware about any RTI reply to Amitabh Thakur.

Following the decision taken by the MHA, 1992-batch Uttar Pradesh cadre IPS officer Amitabh Thakur was given compulsory retirement on March 23 this year along with two others.

Thakur was given premature retirement from his service after terming him "not fit".

Once suspended by Uttar Pradesh government in 2015 after he accused Samajwadi Party chief Mulayam Singh Yadav of "threatening" him, the MHA on March 17 ordered him to retire.

The order copy was sent to the Uttar Pradesh government where Thakur was then posted as an Inspector General of Police.

Thakur was given retirement orders even before the completion of his service with immediate effect in the public interest.

"In the public interest, Amitabh Thakur is being given premature retirement before completion of his service with immediate effect," the Home Ministry order had said.

As per the order, Thakur was "not found fit to be retained for the remaining tenure of his service".

Thakur then took to Twitter to inform that he had been given a compulsory retirement by the Home Ministry. He further shared that he had just received the VRS order, stating that the government no longer needs his services and hence given a premature retirement.

In 2017, Thakur had urged the Centre to dispose of his request for change of cadre, saying the "bias" against him does not exist anymore following the Samajwadi Party's rout in the polls.

He had earlier sent an application to the Ministry of Home Affairs for a change of cadre from Uttar Pradesh to any other state, citing a threat to his life.

In a letter to the Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs, Thakur said: "I had sought cadre change in view of serious threat to my life and family after Mulayam Singh's phone call." He was suspended on July 13, 2015, days after he had accused Mulayam Singh of threatening him. The state government had then initiated a vigilance inquiry against him. However, the Lucknow Bench of the Central Administrative Tribunal had stayed the suspension of Thakur in April and ordered his reinstatement with full salary with effect from October 11, 2015.

Thakur had urged the Centre to transfer him to some other state till the departmental inquiries against him got over, accusing some senior state government officials.
Kabul, May 3 : The Taliban has conducted 141 attacks in Afghanistan over the last 24 hours, mostly in Uruzgan, Zabul, Kandahar, Nangarhar, Badakhshan and Takhar provinces, sources said.

Information obtained by TOLO News shows that at least 20 people were killed in the attacks.

Meanwhile, the Defence Ministry said that more than 100 Taliban fighters were also killed in the last 24 hours.

The militant group has however, rejected the figure.

Data collected by TOLO News revealed that in the last 30 days, 438 members of Afghan forces and civilians were killed and more than 500 others were injured.

The data shows that 190 bombings, targeted attacks and offensives took place in the last month.

The figures come as US forces started their withdrawal from Afghanistan on May 1.

The Defence Ministry said that Camp Antonik in the Washir district in the southern province of Helmand was officially handed over to the Afghan National Army's 215 Maiwand Corp on Sunday.

The Ministry said the camp will be used as a base for Afghan special forces.
Patna, May 3 : In view of the surging corona infection, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) has demanded a complete lockdown of 15 days in Bihar.

Dr. Sahjanand Singh, the national president of IMA, met with the heads of five prominent hospitals in Bihar. Singh said all of them unanimously felt that the situation in the state was worsening with every hour and an immediate lockdown of at least 15 days should be announced.

"We have informed the CMO Bihar about the situation and demanded a complete lockdown of 15 days in the state to break the chain of transmission of corona," Singh said while issuing the statement.

Singh consulted Dr. P.K. Singh, director of Patna AIIMS, Dr. N.R. Viswas, director of Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences (IGIMS), Dr. Vidyapati Chaudhary, dean of Patna Medical College and Hospital, Dr. Vinod Kumar Singh, Medical Superintendent of Nalanda Medical College and Hospital (NMCH) and Dr. Uday Kumar, medical superintendent of Subhash Chandra Bose medical college and hospital Bihta on Sunday evening.

The medical officers pointed out that the rate of the corona infected patients drastically increased in the month of April. As per the data, every fifth person in Bihar is corona positive.

In Patna, 15,000 RT-PCR tests are being conducted every day and at least 3,000 of them are tested positive for Corona. The infection rate in the urban areas is more than the rural areas, but the situation in some of the rural districts is getting worse.

The health department of Bihar took samples of 16,97,129 people and 1,06,784 tested corona positive, who are either admitted in hospitals or in home isolation. 88,877 patients who tested positive, managed to recover from the illness and were discharged, said the state health department on Sunday.

At present, 17,590 active patients are either home isolated or admitted in hospitals of Patna district.

The Bihar government has currently imposed evening curfew from 6 p.m. to 5 a.m. in the state and shops are allowed to open till 4 p.m.
TEHRAN, Oct. 22, 2019 (Xinhua) -- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif speaks during the international conference on "Unilateralism and International Law" in Tehran, Iran, Oct. 21, 2019. Zarif said on Monday that the United States has create Image Source: IANS News

Tehran, May 3 : Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has apologised for critical remarks he was heard saying about the country's political system in a leaked audio recording.

"I would like to apologise to everyone," dpa nws agency quoted Zarif, one of Iran's most high-profile figures and who has been Foreign Minister since 2013, as saying in a social media post on Sunday.

Zarif said he regretted comments he made in which he complained about the interference of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), a branch of the armed forces, in diplomatic affairs.

The remarks came in an interview conducted by one of President Hassan Rouhani's advisers.

The audio tape was allegedly stolen by "inner circles" and then published by Persian-language news outlets abroad.

Later on Sunday, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei criticized Zarif for his comments.

"We have heard statements in recent days that were very regrettable," Khamenei said in a televised speech.

He said the remarks resembled US criticism of the IRGC.

"If someone wants to run for the presidency, they must follow the Iranian Constitution and its Islamic principles, otherwise he is not suitable for the post," Khamenei said.

Zarif is considered a potential candidate in next month's presidential election.

The scandal has dominated the front pages of Iranian newspapers for days as it seemed to suggest a rift among the country's leadership ahead of the vote.

Rouhani, who cannot run for re-election, said the leak was a tactic by hardliners to help them win over voters as well as to hinder ongoing nuclear negotiations.

"Why are certain things happening just when we are on the verge of success in the nuclear negotiations in Vienna?" the President queried.

Talks continue in Vienna to revive a deal aimed at softening Iran's nuclear ambitions.

The US left the framework under former US President Donald Trump but is working to rejoin and needs Iran to agree.

According to Rouhani, the hardliners want to sabotage the nuclear negotiations and thus preserve their chances before the presidential election.

For his part, Zarif said he had not given a "classic interview" but a "theoretical exchange of views" about strategy with a member of the presidential office.

Part of what made Zarif's candid remarks so explosive was his criticism of Qasem Soleimani.

Soleimani, the commander of the Guards' elite Quds Force, was killed in a US attack in Baghdad in January 2020.
Kolkata, May 3 : The rebels of the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) shot down a Myanmar military helicopter gunship when it was attacking their base on Monday. This is the first time a rebel group in the country has brought down a military helicopter after the Tatmadaw (military) started offensives against the country's multiple ethnic rebel armies in late April.

KIA's "foreign liaison unit" located somewhere near India's Arunachal Pradesh state informed IANS that the helicopter was brought down by rebel anti-aircraft fire at Momauk in Kachin state at 10.20 a.m. local Myanmar time on Monday.

The unit's 'chief liaison officer' Naw Bu said the direct hit on the helicopter scared away two Burmese air force jets which were strafing the KIA base in the vicinity.

He said that helicopter crashed near Konglaw village after getting hit by anti-aircraft fire in its tail rotor.

Tatmadaw's Burmese troops and KIA rebel fighters have twice clashed near Momauk since April 11.

On April 29, the KIA launched an artillery attack on Bhamo airport which these military helicopters use for raiding rebel positions.

The fighting in Momauk is near the KIA's base at Alaw Bum on a hill overlooking Myanmar's border with China. The hill overlooks the strategic approach to the KIA base which the Tatmadaw is trying to capture.

Naw Bu told IANS the KIA will 'fight like hell' to prevent the capture of the Alaw Bum base because its fall to the Tatmadaw would help it dominate a huge swathe of territory between Bhamo and Myitkyina, administrative capital of the Kachin state.

KIA seized this base from the Myanmar military Tatmadaw on March 25.

A total of 7000 ethnic Kachins have been displaced due to the ongoing fighting in the Momauk area.

Clashes between the Tatmadaw and KIA started in mid-March after the KIA launched a sneak attack on a military camp near Sai Zin village in Mohnyin district of Kachin state.

Since then, every KIA raid on a Burmese military camp has provoked retaliatory air strikes by the Tatmadaw.

The Tatmadaw has used the helicopters in gunship role to strafe KIA camps and also land troops for retaliatory attacks. Two KIA camps were subjected to sudden attacks using heli-borne troops in northern Shan state's Kutkai township during the last one month.

Tensions have been high between the army and the ethnic armed groups since the military seized power in a coup on February 1.

Since the coup, the Myanmar army has also clashed with the Karen National Union and the Restoration Council of Shan State, both signatories to the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement (NCA) with Aung Saan Suu Kyi's NLD government that was unseated by the Feb 1 coup.

On February 20 this year, weeks after the military takeover, all 10 armed groups that have signed the NCA announced that they would be putting on hold political meetings for negotiations with the junta.

The announcement also said that the groups support the Civil Disobedience Movement and other forms of public resistance to the coup and would find ways to support them.

Meanwhile, the ruling military council has withdrawn its designation of the Arakan Army as a terrorist organization after months of relative peace in Rakhine state.

Until the two sides entered into a temporary ceasefire last November, they were engaged in some of the worst fighting seen in the country in recent years.

The military junta is trying to placate some ethnic rebel groups even as they attack those sheltering and training ethnic Bamar rebels who have fled Myanmar's cities to raise armed groups after the brutal military suppression has led to nearly 800 deaths so far.
May 03 : Amid the current crisis the country is facing during the second wave of coronavirus, Bollywood actors are doing their bits and raising funds for COVID-19 relief work. After actors like Priyanka Chopra, Akshay Kumar, Ajay Devgn and others have done their bits to help the needy, now it is Hrithik Roshan who joined hands with Hollywood actors to raise funds for relief work in India.

The War actor joined hands with a host of American and Hollywood stars and raised about USD 3.68 million. According to an Instagram post by author Jay Shetty, Hrithik contributed USD 15,000 to the fundraiser, which included Hollywood stars like Shawn Mendes, Jada, Will Smith, Jamie Kern Lima and many others who donated towards the relief efforts in India.

Thanking those who participated in the fundraiser, Jay Shetty said in an Instagram post, You all have such huge hearts and we couldnt be more grateful for your support!

Drop a  below for all these amazing supporters. I want to thank each and every one of you and youll see just what an impact you had on the next posts. Special thanks to @shawnmendes @theellenshow @jadapinkettsmith @willsmith @brendonburchard @jamiekernlima @rohanoza @camila_cabello @hrithikroshan for amplifying our fundraiser on your channels and donating personally. You all have such huge hearts and we couldnt be more grateful for your support! This money will go a long way! Lets keep going. Donate NOW if you can. Help is still needed. Every little bit counts, he wrote.

Commenting on Jay Shettys post, Hrithik shared a note of gratitude and wrote "Congratulations Jay and Radhika...amazing" along with a heart emoticon.

Hrithik has earlier also helped his countrymen during this pandemic. He donated N95 and FFP3 masks to the municipal workers of Mumbai and had joined hands with an NGO to facilitate food packages to underprivileged people.

Celebrities from across the globe have been raising funds and other reliefs for people who are affected by COVID-19. They are also spreading awareness and encouraging fans to help out the needy in any way they can. Many are helping to connect donors and helpers to people who need help.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Wellington, May 3 : The Cook Islands will open its border for the first time since March 2020, with New Zealand residents able to visit the small Pacific nation from May 17, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announced on Monday.

The "travel bubble" will allow New Zealanders and Cook Islanders to travel between both countries without the need to quarantine, dpa news agency reported citing Ardern as further saying.

One-way quarantine-free travel from the Cook Islands to New Zealand has been possible since January.

The bubble was a "significant step" in both countries' Covid-19 recovery, and a direct result of both New Zealand and the Cook Islands' successful response to the pandemic, Ardern said.

"It will mean families can reconnect, commercial arrangements can resume and Kiwis can take a much-welcomed winter break and support the Cook Islands' tourism sector and recovery." Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown said the bubble was a result of "uncompromising commitment" to safety and protection.

"Today we start our journey of recovery. Today we get back to business. Today with our joint confirmation of the 17 May, we give our people, and particularly our industry, the certainty necessary to institute remaining preparatory steps to once more welcome visitors to our shores." New Zealand has had a similar "travel bubble" arrangement with Australia since mid-April.

The Cook Islands has never recorded a case of Covid-19, while New Zealand on Monday reported four new cases, all detected at the border.

There are currently 25 active cases of Covid-19 in the country, with a total of 2,266 cases and 26 deaths.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Bicellum brasieri, a freshwater protist that lived nearly one billion years ago, had two distinct cell types and could be the earliest multicellular animal ever recorded. Found in the Scottish Highlands, the microfossil reveals a new insight into the transition of single-celled holozoans into more complex multicellular animals.

The origins of complex multicellularity and the origin of animals are considered two of the most important events in the history of life on Earth, our discovery sheds new light on both of these, said Professor Charles Wellman, a researcher in the Department of Animal and Plant Sciences at the University of Sheffield.

Professor Wellman and colleagues examined thin sections of phosphatic lenses from the Diabaig Formation in Scotland that preserve populations of organisms trapped in ancient lake bottom sediments.

In several thin sections, they observed cell clusters that are composed of aggregations of two distinct cell types, indicating a condition that constitutes a step toward complex multicellularity.

Further investigation revealed a second set of cell clusters that appeared very similar in size and form but that lacked the fully differentiated second cell type.

We have found a primitive spherical organism made up of an arrangement of two distinct cell types, the first step towards a complex multicellular structure, something which has never been described before in the fossil record, Professor Wellman said.

The discovery of this new fossil suggests to us that the evolution of multicellular animals had occurred at least one billion years ago and that early events prior to the evolution of animals may have occurred in freshwater like lakes rather than the ocean.

Biologists have speculated that the origin of animals included the incorporation and repurposing of prior genes that had evolved earlier in unicellular organisms, said Professor Paul Strother, a researcher in the Department of Earth & Environmental Sciences at the Weston Observatory of Boston College.

What we see in Bicellum brasieri is an example of such a genetic system, involving cell-cell adhesion and cell differentiation that may have been incorporated into the animal genome half a billion years later.

The findings are published in the journal Current Biology.

_____

Paul K. Strother et al. A possible billion-year-old holozoan with differentiated multicellularity. Current Biology, published online April 13, 2021; doi: 10.1016/j.cub.2021.03.051
Kolkata, May 3 : The Trinamool Congress has re-established its political control in Junglemahal area with the ruling party wresting out 26 of the 40 assembly seats spread across four districts in West Bengal. In the last Lok Sabha election, BJP managed to get a lead in 31 of these 40 assembly seats.

Junglemahal consists of 40 seats spread across four districts including Purulia Bankura, West Midnapore and Jhargram. There are 9 seats in Purulia, 12 seats in Bankura, 15 seats in West Midnapore and 4 seats in Jhargram, which was carved out of West Mindapore six years ago. The majority of these seats dominated by the tribal population are considered to be a forte of Trinamool Congress shifted loyalty and BJP managed to get 31 of the 40 seats allowing them to have four of the five Lok Sabha seats in these areas.

In the recently concluded assembly election, Trinamool Congress was successful in consolidating its position in the Junglemahal area wresting out 25 of the 40 assembly seats. The ruling party won all the four seats in Jhargram, 3 of 9 in Purulia, 14 out of 15 in West Midnapore and 4 out 12 seats in Bankura leaving 15 for the saffron brigade.

Though BJP has been successful in maintaining some control in Purulia and Bankura but they have failed to retain their control over West Midnapore and Jhargram.

According to the political analysts, there are two factors that contributed to Trinamool's regaining control over the Junglemahal areas. Primarily it was because of the development projects of the state government that directly reached the beneficiaries and helped in restoring confidence in the chief minister. Projects like 'Duare Sarkar' or Kanayashree' or 'Swastha Sathi' helped people get access to the government's social welfare schemes.

The second reason was that people didn't take the defection of Suvendu Adhikari whole heartedly and so BJP did worse in West Midnapore and Jhargram than in Purulia and Bankura.

"Number of seats in Jangalmahal went up to 24 this time from 10 compared to that of the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. We have regained ground that we had lost for no fault of ours. People were actually misguided by the BJP's false assurances. This time, they have realised that TMC can only ensure overall development," said TMC's Bankura district president Shyamal Santra, adding that the number of seats would have gone up if the party had performed better in Bishnupur.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Mumbai, May 3 : Actress Shweta Tripathi encourages sustainable fashion for the sake of the environment.

"I am a big advocate of sustainable fashion and I think if one is conscious of the environment, they'd always choose ethical clothing over anything else. Right from thrift stores to second-hand shopping, I'd like to encourage people to indulge in these practices and make a difference," Shweta said.

The actress treats her clothes with a lot of love and care to ensure they are not torn or damaged.

"The problem is that everyone thinks someone else will save the world. It's time to be that someone. If we all do our little bit, the world will be in a better place. I'd also like to tell people that even when it comes to sourcing for shoots, we try our best to cut down on new things," she added.

In the upcoming web-series, the thriller "Escaype Live", Shweta wears her own footwear.

"For my character in Escaype Live, I'm wearing my own footwear as opposed to buying new ones because if there's something that already fits, I think it's really unnecessary to purchase new ones," she said.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
New Delhi, May 3 : In the wake of the second wave of Covid-19, the Supreme Court on Monday directed the central and state governments to consider enforcing a ban on mass gatherings and super spreader events as well as consider imposing a lockdown.

"We would seriously urge the central and state governments to consider imposing a ban on mass gatherings and super spreader events. They may also consider imposing a lockdown to curb the virus in the second wave in the interest of public welfare," the Supreme Court said.

"Having said that, we are cognizant of the socio-economic impact of a lockdown, specifically, on the marginalised communities. Thus, in case the measure of a lockdown is imposed, arrangements must be made beforehand to cater to the needs of these communities," the apex court added.

The SC also has asked the Central and state governments to put on record their efforts taken so far to curb the spread of the deadly virus which has so far infected 1,99,25,604 with 34,13,642 active cases and a total of 2,18,959 deaths.

The top court further asked the Centre and the states to inform it about the measures that they have planned to deal with the global disease in the near future.

Considering Covid-19 crisis, the court then directed that "no patient shall be denied hospitalisation or essential drugs in any state or Union Territory for lack of local residential or identity proof".

A bench headed by Justice D.Y. Chandrachud issued the directive that the central government should formulate a national policy on admissions to hospitals within two weeks.

The judge said that the policy should also be followed by all state governments and that no patients till then will be denied admission or essential drugs in absence of local residential or identity proof.

The Supreme Court's order noted that getting admission in hospital with a bed is one of the biggest challenges being faced by thousands of people across the country since the beginning of the second wave of the Covid pandemic.

The top court observed that citizens have been suffering immeasurable hardship.

"Different states and local authorities follow their own protocols. Differing standards for admission in different hospitals across the nation leads to chaos and uncertainty. The situation cannot brook any delay," it said.

"Accordingly, we direct the central government to frame a policy in this regard, in exercise of its statutory powers under the Disaster Management Act, which will be followed nationally. The presence of such a policy shall ensure that no one in need is turned away from a hospital, due to no fault of their own." In its order released late Sunday night, the Supreme Court had also directed that the central government to create a buffer stock of oxygen in collaboration with state governments to ensure supply lines continue to function even in unforeseen circumstances and decentralise the location of the emergency stocks.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Kuala Lumpur, May 3 : Court hearings related to the multi-billion dollar corruption allegations involving former Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak have been postponed again due to coronavirus concerns.

Najib, who was due in court on Monday for one of several trials related to his 2009-18 tenure as Prime Minister, is accused of stealing around $700 million from 1MDB, a state fund he helped establish, reports dpa news agency.

He has maintained his innocence, saying the money was a donation he largely repaid.

This week's hearings were to be the next set in a trial that started in 2019 but had already been cut short after Najib's appeal against a separate but related conviction ran beyond the scheduled April 22 deadline.

The Court of Appeal last week reprimanded Najib's defence for dragging out proceedings, but gave them one more day, scheduled to be Wednesday, to wrap up submissions.

However that appeal hearing was also shelved on Monday.

The defence team told reporters that one of their lawyers was in coronavirus quarantine.

Court dates in Najib's trials have had to be rescheduled several times over the past year due to the pandemic and related restrictions.

Najib was sentenced to 12 years in jail last year after being found guilty of misappropriating 42 million ringgit ($9.6 million dollars) from SRC International, a subsidiary of 1MDB.

He is free on bail and remains an MP, pending appeals.

Najib lost power in 2018 elections fought in part over the allegations and was arrested after trying to flee the country.
Bhopal, May 3 : The Madhya Pradesh government has announced that the 'Corona curfew' has been extended in state capital Bhopal till May 10, an official said. All precautionary measures are being taken by the state government to control the spread of Covid-19 infections in the state.

Keeping in view the surging Covid-19 cases in Bhopal district and in order to protect the general public from the infection, the duration of the 'Corona curfew' has been extended till 6 a.m. on May 10. Earlier, the curfew was imposed till May 3.

According to official information, District Magistrate Avinash Lavania issued this order.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Mumbai, May 3 : A perturbed Maharashtra government on Monday has assured "full security and safety" to Serum Institute of India Ltd (SII) CEO Adar Poonawalla who has claimed threats of dire consequences in the past couple of days.

Taking a serious note, Shiv Sena's Minister of State for Home Shambhuraj Desai, while promising complete security to the Pune-based vaccine king also asked him to lodge a police complaint in writing and the state government would take strict action in the matter.

Nationalist Congress Party's Housing Minister Dr. Jitendra Awhad demanded that the country and all citizens would like to know the truth behind Poonawalla's interview to a London newspaper.

"He says that if he speaks the truth, he will be killed. Let the country know the truth," Awhad urged.

Asking SII CEO "not to worry" about the threats, Congress state President Nana F. Patole said that the Congress would ensure no harm befalls him.

"He must concentrate only on vaccine manufacturing. We will take care of his security. The country needs his services," Patole said.

Sena's veteran labour leader Dr. Raghunath Kuchik -- accorded status of a Minister of State -- said the pressures SII faces are obvious in view of the huge demands for vaccines from all over the world.

"He may have sounded out the concerned persons and has already been provided with Y-Category security. The Poonawallas are good people and take excellent care of all their employees also," Dr. Kuchik, who is advisor to the SII Employees Union, told IANS.

In a related development, Industry Minister Subhas Desai categorically dismissed certain television news channel reports alleging "Shiv Sena goons" had threatened Poonawalla for vaccines.

Desai termed as 'political bias' the TV channel's move to attach another party president's video to the Shiv Sena and "deliberately defame" the party, which is a part of the ruling Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government.

Poonawalla, 40, created a flutter a couple of days ago after he told a London-based newspaper that he was getting constant threats from some chief ministers and corporate leaders back home.

The head of the world's biggest vaccines producer, he added that the callers usually began politely but later became threatening after he made it clear that he couldn't oblige them to jump the queues for vaccines even as social media poured support for him.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)

-- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed
During the corona era, Dr. Dlamp was showing the illumination to the infected. Anil. Image Source: IANS News

During the corona era, Dr. Dlamp was showing the illumination to the infected. Anil. Image Source: IANS News

Patna, May 3 : Anil Kumar, Deputy Medical Superintendent of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Patna, through his initiative 'D-LAMP' is providing people a ray of hope in these difficult times. Kumar claims that through his initiative, more than 6,000 people have been cured of Covid-19 infection without even visiting the hospital.

Kumar, Telemedicine Coordinator of Patna AIIMS, told IANS that he receives many calls every day about Covid-19 infection. He started the initiative 'D-LAMP in consultation with several senior physicians and scientists.

He said that during the Covid times with lack of availability of beds and oxygen, a person infected with the virus should start taking medicines based on the concept of 'D-LAMP' immediately.

He said that 'D-LAMP' is an acronym where 'D' stands for Dexamethasone, 'L' for Low molecular weight heparin injection or Apixaban tablet, 'A' for Azithromycin tablet, 'M' for Montelukast and Levocetirizine and 'P' for Paracetamol. With the intake of these medicines, Covid-19 infection can be cured within a few days.

He said he receives phone calls from many states, but most of the calls are from Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Jharkhand and Bihar.

Kumar says whether or not you are infected or have been cured of the infection, one must follow the 'M3 PHC', which means "I will do primary health care".

He said M3 -- mask, multivitamin and mouth gargle -- is essential for every individual today. Today there is a problem over getting oxygen. 'P' means that if one sleeps more on one's stomach, it is certain that the amount of oxygen can be kept right.

Kumar's 'H' means Handwash and 'C' means Chest Physiotherapy. He said for chest physiotherapy, one can blow a conch shell or inflate a balloon. Apart from this, chest physiotherapy can also be done by chest spirometry.

Asked about the problem over Remdesivir injections, Kumar says this injection could be helpful for a patient who usually takes 15 days to recover from the infection, but it is not a panacea for Covid-19. He said many other senior doctors hold the same view.

He says that patients today need to be strengthened mentally as well. He advised Covid-19 patients that if they have contracted the infection, there is no need to panic.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Guwahati, May 3 : The ruling BJP-led alliance, which returned to power in Assam for the second consecutive term, secured 11 seats less than the 2016 assembly polls. The Bharatiya Janata Party, the dominant partner of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), bagged 60 seats, similar to what it got five years ago. The NDA went on to finally win 75 seats in the 126 member assembly.

BJP's old ally Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) won nine seats against 14 seats that it won last time while its new partner United People's Party Liberal (UPPL) won six seats as the Bodoland based party for the first time contested the assembly elections.

The Congress, which governed Assam for 15 years (2001 to 2016), though could not win the elections this time has managed 29 seats, three seats more than the last elections, when the party lost Assam to the BJP. Other partners of the Congress led "Mahajot" (grand alliance) - the All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) won 16 seats up from 13 last time, Bodoland Peoples Front (BPF) got four seats against 12 seats in previous polls and Communist Party of India-Marxist won just one seat.

Raijor Dal (RD) President and jailed leader Akhil Gogoi, who contested from Sibasagar constituency as an independent candidate, also won the seat by defeating the BJP candidate Surabhi Rajkonwari by a margin of 11,875 votes.

The AIUDF contested the 2016 assembly elections independently while Bodoland Peoples Front (BPF), earlier an ally of the BJP is now an alliance partner of the 10-party "Mahajot".

All the prominent candidates of the BJP and the 13 ministers of the outgoing government including Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, who was re-elected from the world's largest river island Majuli in eastern Assam, Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma from Jalukbari Assembly seat and state BJP President Ranjeet Kumar Dass from Patacharkuchi Assembly seat, have retained their respective seats.

Sarma, BJP's pointsman in the northeastern region, who retained his Jalukbari constituency for the fifth consecutive term defeating his Congress rival Romen Chandra Borthakur by a whopping 1,01,911 votes, improvwd upon his previous record of 85,935 votes in 2016.

Assam assembly speaker and BJP candidate Hitendranath Goswami has won from Jorhat constituency while Industry Minister Chandra Mohan Patowary (Dharmapur), Forest and Environment Minister Parimal Sukla Baidya (Dholai), Law Minister Siddhartha Bhattacharya (Gauhati East), Handloom, Irrigation and Textiles Minister Ranjit Dutta (Behali) and Urban Development Minister Pijush Hazarika (Jagiroad) also won the elections.

AGP President and Minister Atul Bora has been re-elected from Bokakhat by defeating independent candidate Pranab Doley by a margin of 45,181 votes.

Former Congress Minister Ajanta Neog, who joined the saffron party weeks before the assembly polls, retained her Golaghat seat by defeating Congress candidate Bitupan Saikia by a margin of 9,325 votes.

Another former Congress Minister Gautam Roy, who contested this time on a BJP ticket ironically lost to Congress candidate Khaliluddin Mazumdar in southern Assam's Katigora seat by 6,939 votes.

Several Congress leaders including state Congress President Ripun Bora, who is a Rajya Sabha member, himself also lost the election in the Gohpur Assembly seat to the BJP's Utpal Borah by a margin of 29,294 votes. Bora resigned on Sunday night taking moral responsibility for the party's defeat in the Assembly elections.

However, Congress Legislature Party leader of the outgoing assembly Debabrata Saikia has been re-elected from Nazira assembly seat by defeating BJP candidate Mayur Borgohain by a thin margin of 683 votes while another Congress leader Diganta Barman won from Barkhetri by defeating BJP nominee Narayan Deka by a Margin of 4,054 votes.

Sitting Congress MLAs Rakibul Hussain from Samaguri and Rupjyoti Kurmi from Mariani retained their respective seats. Defeating BJP nominee Hemanta Kalita, Congress candidate Bhaskar Jyoti Baruah won in Titabor, which was earlier represented by three-time Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi, who died last year.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Washington, May 3 : An increasingly confident China is acting "more aggressively abroad", US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a televised interview.

"What we've witnessed over the last several years is China acting more repressively at home and more aggressively abroad. That is a fact," dpa news agency quoted Blinken as saying in a CBS News interview broadcasted on Sunday.

Asked what he considered Beijing's long-term goal, Blinken said: "I think that over time China believes that it can be and should be and will be the dominant country in the world." When queried about a potential military confrontation with China, the Secretary of State replied: "I think it's profoundly against the interests of both China and the US to get to that point or even to head in that direction." The top US diplomat stressed "Our purpose is not to contain China, to hold it back, to keep it down".

"It is to uphold this rules-based order that China is posing a challenge to. Anyone who poses a challenge to that order, we're going to stand up and defend it," Blinken continued.

Concern has been growing over China's increasing assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region, its growing tensions with Taiwan and human rights issues regarding the Muslim minority Uighurs in the western region of Xinjiang.
Chennai, May 3 : The BJP scripted success in the 2021 Assembly elections of Tamil Nadu winning 4 seats out of the 20 it had contested. However, the party's vote share was only 2.6 per cent.

BJP women's wing national president Vanathi Srinivasan emerged a giant killer by defeating South Indian superstar and President of Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) by a margin of 1,540 votes at Coimbatore South seat.

Vanathi had been continuously working at the grassroots in the constituency after losing the seat in 2016 garnering 33,113 votes. However in the 2016 elections, the BJP had contested alone while in 2021 it was in alliance with the AIADMK.

At Tirunelveli constituency, Nainar Nagendran of the BJP won by a margin of 23,402 votes against DMK leader A.L.S. Lakshmanan. Nagendran was a former leader of the AIADMK and is presently the state vice president of the BJP.

Senior BJP leader M.R. Gandhi won the Nagercoil Assembly constituency by a good majority over his DMK opponent N. Suresh Rajan by a margin of 9,857 votes. Kanyakumari district has been a good base of the BJP ever since its Jana Sangh days and the RSS has also a good number of Shakhas in this area. Nagercoil is part of the Kanyakumari district.

Party woman leader and Medical doctor, Dr. C. Swaraswathi defeated DMK candidate, Subbulakshmi Jagadeeshan by a margin of 1,244 votes. Dr. Saraswathi is a medical doctor who has been in the forefront of several social activists in the constituency for long.

While the BJP won four seats, it was not all rosy for the party with its state president L. Murugan and its senior leader and former National secretary H. Raja, Cine star and BJP leader Khushboo Sundar and IPS officer turned politician Annamalai losing the elections.

BJP Tamil Nadu state president and young leader Murugan lost the elections at Dharapuram constituency of Tamil Nadu by a slender margin of 812 votes against DMK's N. Kayalvizhi. H. Raja lost the elections at Karaikudi Assembly constituency by a margin of around 20,000 votes against S. Mangudi of the Congress in a fight between two national parties. K. Annamalai lost from Aruvarakurichi constituency by a margin of 24,300 votes to R. Elango of the DMK.

BJP state spokesman Advocate K.T. Raghavan while speaking to IANS said, "We did decently well in the elections and could win 4 seats. We lost by slender margins in some seats, including Dharapuram where the party state president L. Murugan lost by 812 votes. We contested in 20 seats and won 4 which is not a bad result. Party will study in detail on the total vote the party garnered and the factors which led to its victory/defeat."

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
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Lucknow, May 3 : Upset over alleged betrayal by his second wife, a man murdered her parents in a fit of rage.

The Kaiserbagh police on Sunday arrested the accused, Ram Milan Neelu, from Basti district.

His accomplice Durgesh, is still absconding.

The incident came to light after Suraj Thapa, Ram Milan's brother-in-law, lodged a missing complaint of his parents, Buddhi Bahadur and Beena, on April 25.

Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (ADCP) west zone, Rajesh Srivastava said, "Police looked for the couple and found the body of Beena on Faizabad road in Ayodhya, while Buddhi Bahadur's body was recovered in Maharajganj Tanda road under Gosaiganj police station of Ayodhya," He said both the bodies were identified by Suraj on the basis of their clothes.

Ram Milan was put under surveillance and was arrested from Basti. An SUV was recovered from his possession. He informed cops that he had first married Mamta Devi in 2012 in Gonda.

He started organising dance parties in villages and was making huge profits after he met one Tamanna from Nepal. The duo developed likeness for each other and got married.

However, after some time Tamanna came in contact with Pappu Yadav of Bihar and eloped with him.

Ram Milan began suffering huge losses in his venture and started looking for Tammana. He got to know that her parents had shifted to Lucknow.

On April 24, he drove down to Lucknow in his SUV with his aide Durgesh and reached the home of Tamanna's parents in Ghasiyari Mandi.

Pramod Kumar Mishra, SHO, Kaiserbagh said that he took the couple to the outskirts of the state capital and murdered them.
Bengaluru, May 3 : At least 23 patients died at a government hospital in Chamarajanagar district in Karnataka in the wee hours of Monday after the oxygen supply dropped, officials said.

"The deaths were reported after there was a fall in oxygen supply level between 12 a.m. and 2 a.m. on wee hours of Monday, where at least 144 patients are being treated," a senior official at the hospital said.

A statement released by the Chief Minister's office here, stated that Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa has spoken to the district collector over the incident and called an emergency Cabinet meeting on Tuesday.

Home Minister Basavaraja Bommai, meanwhile, has asked the DGP Praveen Sood to investigate the matter and submit a comprehensive report for further action.

Chamarajanagar district in charge minister, S. Suresh Kumar said that it was not proper to attribute all deaths due to oxygen shortage as the state government was investigating the matter. "I am visiting there to find out about the matter," he said this before leaving from Bengaluru to Chamarajnagar.

Health Minister, K. Sudhakar too left from Bengaluru for Chamarajnagar, to take stock of the situation. "It is very saddening to know about such incident. We do not have complete information yet," he said.

Mysuru MP, Pratap Simha, said, "Last night, when media people drew my attention to the situation of oxygen shortage in Chamarajnagar district, I myself contacted DC Ravi and took a conference call with ADC who is in charge of oxygen. At night itself I contacted Southern Gas and they provided 15 cylinders. Despite all this, this sad incident occurred. Chamarajnagar is not some far away place. We feel it is a part of us. We are part of their sorrow." The district has recorded a total of 11,928 cases of COVID-19 infection since the beginning of the pandemic. At least 167 people have died due to the virus until Sunday.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Chennai, May 3 : Two and three wheeler maker TVS Motor Company Ltd on Monday said it closed last month selling 238,983 units.

Last year the company had sold 9,640 units in April 2020 when the nation went under Covid-19 lockdown.

The company said domestic sales in April 2021 is lower due to lockdowns in many states, but retails continue to be ahead of despatch.

We have reduced dealer stocks to support the channel partners and will produce to maintain adequate inventories for customer demand when it reopens.

Last month company sold 226,193 two wheelers and 12,790 three wheelers.
Washington, May 3 : The US State Department has rejected reports of a prisoner swap deal between Washington and Tehran.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Department spokesman Ned Price said: "Reports that a prisoner swap deal has been reached are not true. As we have said, we always raise the cases of Americans detained or missing in Iran.

"We will not stop until we are able to reunite them with their families." Also rejecting the reports, White House chief of staff Ron Klain told CBS News on Sunday that "there is no agreement to release these four Americans", The Hill news website reported.

"We are working very hard to get them released. We raise this with Iran and our interlocutors all the time. But so far there's no agreement to bring these four Americans home," Klain added.

The last prisoner swap between the two countries took place in December 2019.

Xiyue Wang, a US scholar who had been in Iranian custody since August 2016, and Iranian scholar Massoud Soleimani held by the US for more than one year, were released.

Wang was sentenced in 2017 to 10 years in prison after being found guilty of being "an infiltrating American agent".

Soleimani was reportedly arrested in Chicago last year and was charged with violating US trade sanctions against Iran.

Iran and the US have had an increasingly strained relationship in recent years and share no diplomatic links.
New Delhi, May 3 : SpiceJet's air cargo arm SpiceXpress on Monday airlifted 700 oxygen concentrators from Guangzhou to New Delhi.

Accordingly, the airline has airlifted more than 4,400 oxygen concentrators from the USA, Hong Kong, Singapore and China in the last two weeks.

SpiceXpress used its B737 freighter aircraft to airlift the concentrators from Guangzhou.

SpiceXpress had on April 24 airlifted 800 oxygen concentrators followed by another consignment of 1000 oxygen concentrators on April 28 from Hong Kong to Delhi.

These oxygen concentrators had been ordered by SpiceHealth for emergency use and distribution across India.

At present, SpiceXpress has a network spanning 63 domestic and 50 international destinations and a fleet of 19 cargo planes.

It is capable of flying over 600 tonnes of cargo daily to domestic and international destinations.
Patna, May 3 : The fatality rate in coronavirus infections in Bihar is extremely high and it has especially hit hard the state's agriculture department.

As many as 15 officials of the Bihar agriculture department have lost their lives due to the Covid-19 infection, including the Deputy Director of Diyara Taal Development Project, Om Prakash Singh.

Singh tested positive for Covid-19 a week ago and passed away in a private hospital in Patna on Sunday night.

Bihar Agriculture Minister Amrendra Pratap Singh, and Agriculture Secretary, N. Saravana Kumar expressed deep condolences to the victim's family.

Earlier, an agriculture department official deployed at Naubatpur, five agriculture advisors, three agriculture coordinators and three clerks in the land preservation unit lost their lives during the second wave of Covid-19 in April this year.

The Registrar of Veer Kunwar Singh University, Bhojpur, died due to a heart attack on Monday morning. He was also infected with the virus.

The deceased, Nanheshwar Prasad, had tested positive for Covid-19 five days ago and was admitted to Narayan Medical College and Hospital in Sasaram. He was recently appointed as the Registrar and a notification in this regard was issued by Bihar Governor Phagu Chauhan's office on April 6.

A doctor in the Primary Health Centre in Punpun area of Patna district also died due to Covid-19 on Monday morning.

The deceased identified as Amirchand Prasad held the wedding of his daughter on April 23. He was infected with the virus during the social event following which his health deteriorated on April 25.

The family members of Prasad admitted him to Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna. His health deteriorated further on Sunday night and he breathed his last early Monday morning.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Jaunpur, May 3 : Srikala Singh, wife of former Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) MP and mafia don Dhananjay Singh, has won the zila panchayat elections from Jaunpur.

Srikala Singh, the daughter of a Hyderabad-based politician, had filed her nomination for the zila panchayat elections in Uttar Pradesh.

Dhananjay Singh and Srikala got married in 2017 in a grand ceremony.

Srikala was in the Telugu Desham Parishad (TDP) but joined the BJP in 2019 in the presence of party President J.P. Nadda in Hyderabad.

Dhananjay Singh has been absconding after being released from jail last month.

Soon after Srikala filed her nomination, the local police raided her husband's house to arrest him in connection with a murder case.

He was not found at home though and the police have now declared a reward of Rs 25,000 on his head.
New Delhi, May 3 : Delhi government has sought help from the Centre to depute Armed Forces in the national capital to set up and operationalise the Covid-19 facilities.

Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia made the appeal through a letter written on Sunday to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh for lending services of the Armed Forces to set up Covid facilities here in the city with about 10,000 oxygenated non-ICU beds and 1,000 ICU beds.

Mentioning that Delhi is in the midst of unprecedented Covid surge which has stretched the health infrastructure to the maximum level, Sisodia said: "I shall be grateful if your Ministry could lend the services of our Armed Forces to set-up, operationalise and run some Covid health facilities with about 10,000 oxygenated Non-ICU beds and 1,000 ICU beds." "Since the entire health infrastructure machinery is overwhelmed with the management of the existing hospitals and the upcoming Covid hospitals or care centres, it will be timely help to the people of Delhi if the Ministry of Defence, with the considerable resources at its commands, is tasked with the responsibility to provide and man the additional Covid health facilities as per the current projections." The Deputy CM also requested the Ministry of Defence to make arrangements for supply of medical oxygen for the Covid health facility to be set up.

Sisodia sought the help noting "Indian Army has always stood at the forefront during every time of crisis, helped and protected the citizens of his great nation".

Considering the enormous number of cases, Sisodia said, the additional health infrastructure, being set up by the Delhi government is likely to be filled up as soon as it is ready and we need at least 10,000 oxygenated non-ICU beds and 1,000 ICU beds at the earliest to overcome this crisis.

The Deputy CM also informed that Delhi at present has 16,272 non-ICU oxygen beds and 4,866 ICU beds, and that the Delhi government is creating an additional 15,000 oxygenated non-ICU beds and 1,200 ICU beds which are likely to be operationalised over the next ten days.

In the letter, Sisodia further said: "The other requirement at the moment of crisis is the regular supply of medical oxygen." The government of India allocates medical oxygen to the various states and Delhi is grateful to the efforts of the Centre in augmenting the supply of medical oxygen, said Sisodia, adding "from the initial allocation of 378 MT per day, government of India has increased the allocation to 490 MT on April 24 and thereafter to 590 MT".

"The additional allocation to Delhi has been made from the plants located more than 1,500 km from Delhi like Durgapur, Rourkela and Kalinga Nagar. Delhi government with necessary help from the government of India and other state governments, is augmenting the transport infrastructure by sourcing cryogenic tankers even from abroad," Sisodia said.

"It would be an extraordinary help from our Armed Forces if the Ministry of Defence can provide cryogenic tankers for transport of Liquid Medical Oxygen".

Sisodia also informed that the Delhi government has deployed all available medical professionals in manning the Covid hospitals and Covid care centres, and it is also in process of recruiting retired doctors and para medical teams.

Still, the Aam Aadmi Party leader said, the availability is extremely limited considering the huge demand. "The Ministry of Defence may also kindly provide medical and para medical teams to supplement the medical manpower of Delhi." At the end of the letter, Sisodia mentioned that the requirements may be considered on humanitarian grounds in this hour of unprecedented health crisis, noting "the operational details can be mutually worked out after receipt of in principle approval from the Defence Ministry".

On an average, there have been 25,000 new Covid cases in Delhi every day and about 10 per cent of them require some form of hospitalisation including oxygen support.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Amaravati, May 3 : With Covid cases continuing to rise with each passing day, the Andhra Pradesh government on Monday decided to impose a partial curfew in the state with effect from Wednesday.

As per the restrictions which will be in force for a period of two weeks, shops and establishments will be allowed to operate between 6 a.m. and 12 noon.

Section 144 will be in force during these hours.

From 12 noon onwards, curfew will be in force, and only emergency services will be allowed to function.

On Monday, Chief Minister YS Jaganmohan Reddy, Ministers, and officials met to review the prevailing situation and decide upon measures to tackle the pandemic situation in the state.

Health minister Alla Nani said: "The Chief Minister has instructed to impose curfew in specified hours. Along with covid control measures, he has directed us to increase bed capacities in hospitals." Andhra Pradesh has been reporting progressively higher Covid cases with every passing day. On Sunday, the number touched the all-time high of 23,920 cases.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Tehran, May 3 : The Iranian Foreign Ministry on Monday dismissed a report that Tehran is preparing to free five prisoners in exchange for access to bank accounts that have long been frozen due to diplomatic disputes with the UK and the US.

"As a rule, we don't confirm reports and statements by so-called informed sources," dpa news agency quoted Ministry spokesperson Saeid Khatibzadeh as saying.

The comments were prompted by a report by Lebanese broadcaster Al-Mayadeen, which reported on Sunday that Iran is poised to free five people, all with dual citizenship in either the UK or the US, for access to funds that have long been frozen because of ongoing diplomatic disputes about Iran's nuclear and missile programmes.

The report, which the authors said was based on information from informed sources, was cited in Iranian media several times at the weekend.

Although Al-Mayadeen did not name the prisoners, it is believed that the four Americans refer to three business executives and one environmental activist incarcerated in Iran.

According to the report, their freedom would give access to 7 billion dollars currently frozen.

The fifth person is allegedly Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, who also has British citizenship and was recently released after five years in detention.

But she was quickly sentenced again to another year in jail for participating in a demonstration 12 years ago.

According to the report, the UK was prepared to free up 400 million pounds out of frozen accounts in exchange for Zaghari-Ratcliffe's freedom.

Khatibzadeh said there was no link between the frozen funds and any talks about releasing prisoners.

However, he did say there are routine conversations with the US about the status of the prisoners.

London and Washington have already denied the report.

The two countries have routinely accused Iran of using the prisoners as leverage in an effort to regain access to the frozen funds, a charge Iran regularly denies.
More ham radio spectrum in 3-12 MHz needed The WIA Spectrum Strategy Committee has released their response to the ACMA Five Year Spectrum Outlook 2021, they highlight the need for more amateur radio spectrum in 3-12 MHz



The WIA says:



Global demand for HF amateur spectrum has grown, particularly since the start of the COVID pandemic. Congestion (particularly on the 7 MHz band) from both legitimate and unauthorised illegal transmissions is often severe during times of increased ionospheric propagation.



Additionally, heightened tensions across the globe have increased the use of high-power HF radar systems which frequently disrupt HF amateur communications across large segments of spectrum, particularly on the lower frequency bands. Increasing spectrum access within the 3-10 MHz range is seen as vital to enable sufficient frequency agility for the amateur service, so that communications can be maintained when large amounts of spectrum are suffering interference from international radar based intruders 4.



The WIA intends to seek expansions to amateur bands in the 3-12 MHz segment over the next 5 years for Australian amateurs, at least in alignment with international allocations, although the WIA acknowledges that this is a lower priority than other items proposed.



You can download the full WIA response document at

https://www.wia.org.au/newsevents/news/2021/20210428-1/
Gurugram, May 3 : Nearly 15 critical Covid-19 patients have lost their lives due to acute shortage of oxygen in smaller hospitals of Gurugram during the last week.

These hospitals regularly demand from the district administration through Twitter or other social media platforms to provide liquid oxygen to them.

According to the hospital management, several of them have discharged all patients and shut down operations, claiming the administration and the Municipal Corporation of Gurugram (MCG) have not paid attention to their repeated requests for liquid oxygen.

Ashok Kathuria, Director of Kathuria hospital in Old Gurugram, said, "Due to shortage of oxygen four Covid-19 patients had died in the hospital. Now we have stopped admission of new Covid patients as we cannot risk someone's life and why should we face the families' anger without any mistake on our part." Park Group of hospitals tweeted on Sunday that liquid oxygen allocated to it in Gurugram was hijacked by some other hospital.

"More than 140 patients' lives are in danger," it tweeted.

Later, the hospital tweeted that it has received less than one tonne of oxygen.

Meanwhile, the administration officials claimed that there was no shortage of liquid oxygen in Gurugram.

Aryan Hospital located on Old Railway Road, Gurugram, tweeted that it has sought officials' intervention to provide oxygen at the hospital but to no avail.

Bharat, Medical Superintendent, SPES hospital, said the hospital has stopped fresh admissions of Covid patients as they have not received a single oxygen cylinder. In the absence of continuous oxygen supply, we ask families of indoor patients to arrange for oxygen cylinders to continue their treatment.

"Without oxygen how can we run operations? Why should we face people's anger without any mistake on our part. The district management and the MCG are responsible for allocation of oxygen supply in Gurugram," said a senior doctor of a leading hospital requesting anonymity.

Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar chaired a meeting with the Deputy Commissioner, Sudhir Rajpal, Nodal officer for Covid management in Gurugram, and the MCG Commissioner late Sunday evening to discuss oxygen allocation for Gurugram hospitals. Khattar assured smooth oxygen supply to all hospitals in the district.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
London, May 3 : Covid-19 infections in healthcare workers during the first wave of the pandemic provided an accurate sample of the general population, say researchers suggesting that data from healthcare workers could be used to estimate the severity of future viruses more quickly.

Healthcare workers in Ireland made up 31.6 per cent of all test-confirmed infections while only representing three per cent of the population.

However, researchers from RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences in collaboration with IBM Research, found that the healthcare worker data closely related to that of the entire population after using software to create a more accurate picture of how widespread the disease was.

This suggests that governments could use data from only healthcare workers to inform decisions on whether to implement restrictions, wide-scale testing and contact tracing for future viruses, revealed in the research published in the PLOS ONE journal.

"Setting up wide-scale testing systems for healthcare workers is much easier than setting up a similar programme for everyone since the infrastructure for testing for diseases is always in place in healthcare settings," said Dan Wu, lecturer in the RCSI Department of Chemistry.

"A screening programme that tested all healthcare workers would have the additional benefit of catching asymptomatic spread of the disease since all healthcare workers would be tested. If governments could catch highly infectious diseases and implement countermeasures early, this could possibly prevent new viruses from erupting into another epidemic/pandemic," Wu added.

The team analysed the infection data from healthcare workers and the progression of the first wave of the Covid-19 outbreak using the reported daily infection numbers in Ireland.

Using similar data in four other countries (Germany, the UK, South Korea and Iceland), computer models showed how the disease progressed in different countries related to their approach to testing, tracing and lockdown restrictions.

The research noted that very few nations were able to set up effective systems that tested the entire population, carried out contact tracing and quarantined those infected with Covid-19.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
London, May 3 : Ministers from the G7 countries will meet in person for the first time in two years on Monday in London, where they will discuss the withdrawal of foreign troops from Afghanistan, a post-Brexit trade deal, Iran's nuclear programme and China.

Ministers from Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the US are due to meet British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab, reports dpa news agency.

Members of the European Union will also attend, and representatives from Australia, India, South Korea, South Africa and the chairman of the Association of South-East Asian Nations have been invited as guests.

Raab is expected to meet one-on-one with Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi at lunchtime, and with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken later on in the afternoon.

Ahead of the meetings, the UK Foreign Office said the ministers will also discuss plans to boost girls' education and women's employment in recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic.

A $15 billion fund is being set up by the countries that will be administered to developing countries over the next two years.

The nations are also signing up to new global targets that aim to get 40 million more girls into school and 20 million more girls reading by the age of 10 in low- and lower-middle income countries by 2026.

The face-to-face meeting is taking place ahead of a G7 summit planned for June in the English seaside county of Cornwall.
Berlin, May 3 : German police arrested three men on Monday on suspicion of operating one of the world's largest child pornography internet platforms following a series of raids across the country.

The men are accused of operating the platform as administrators on the so-called "darknet", which is not visible to normal users and can only be accessed using specific software and authorisations, the Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) said.

Investigators from both the BKA and the Frankfurt public prosecutor's office searched seven properties in three states, North Rhine-Westphalia, Bavaria and Hamburg, before making the arrests, dpa news agency quoted officials as saying.

Another suspected member of the ring was arrested in Paraguay at the request of German law enforcement authorities, the BKA said.

The three main suspects are a 40-year-old man from the west German city of Paderborn, a 49-year-old man from the Munich area and a 58-year-old man from northern Germany who has been living in South America for several years, investigators said.

The man arrested in Paraguay, a 64-year-old from Hamburg, is suspected of having posted more than 3,500 articles as one of the most active users of the platform.
Male, May 3 : The Maldives' Health Protection Agency (HPA) has banned non-essential travel between islands and atolls in a bid to curb a new surge in Covid-19 infections, local media reported on Monday.

Non-essential travel between islands and atolls will be banned starting Tuesday, according to a circular signed by Director General of Public Health Maimoona Aboobakuru on Sunday.

The ban does not apply to trips between Male, Villimale, Hulhumale, Thilafushi and Gulhifalhu, reports Xinhua news agency.

Only individuals travelling for essential services such as medical treatment may move between islands.

Meanwhile, local councils have been instructed by the HPA to ensure supplies of essentials such as food and medicine in their respective islands.

Daily average cases in the Maldives have risen to over 400, with infections spreading outside the capital region of Greater Male.

The total number of active cases stands at 5,594, out of which 172 have been hospitalised for treatment.
New Delhi, May 3 : The continuation of the Indian Premier League (IPL) was thrown in doubt on Monday after it was confirmed that Kolkata Knight Riders' (KKR) spinner Varun Chakravarthy and pacer Sandeep Warrier have tested positive for Covid-19. Finally, Covid has pricked the IPL the supposedly IPL bio-bubble.

The reality is that everyone saw it coming, as the IPL matches were being played despite the unprecedented surge in Covid cases in India, and it was only a matter of time before the virus breached the supposedly IPL bio-bubble for players and officials.

Monday's Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)-Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) was postponed after the two positive Covid-19 results.

The IPL has been taking place in Ahmedabad at a time when the city and the state of Gujarat is ravaged by the second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic. A total of 70,602 have so far been infected and 834 have died of Covid-19 in Gujarat since the first IPL match was played in Ahmedabad on April 26.

Ahmedabad is scheduled to host most number of IPL matches, 12, including the playoff games and the final on May 30. It remains to be seen if the matches, or indeed the IPL, will continue as apprehension is being expressed of the IPL/franchises' bio-bubble breaches.

Delhi is faring worse than any other Indian city in terms of Corona cases, but the IPL matches are continuing to be played. Delhi is scheduled to host eight matches.

Ahmedabad in numbers: April 26: IPL match: Punjab Kings (123/9) vs Kolkata Knight Riders (126/5). Total Runs: 249 Gujarat Covid numbers: Deaths 158, Fresh cases: 14,340. Total: 14,498 April 27: Delhi Capitals (170/4) vs Royal Challengers Bangalore (171/5). Total runs: 341 Gujarat Covid numbers: Deaths: 170, Fresh cases: 14,352. Total: 14,522 April 29: Delhi Capitals (156/3) vs Kolkata Knight Riders (154/6). Total runs: 310 Gujarat Covid numbers: Deaths: 180, Fresh cases: 14,327. Total: 14,507 April 30: Punjab Kings (179/5) vs Royal Challengers Bangalore (145/8). Total runs: 324 Gujarat Covid numbers: Deaths: 173, Fresh cases: 14,605. Total: 14,778 May 2: Punjab Kings (166/6) vs Delhi Capitals (167/3). Total Runs: 333 Gujarat Covid numbers: Deaths: 153, Fresh cases: 12,978. Total: 13,131

Latest updates on IPL 2021

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
New Delhi, May 3 : The Chhattisgarh government has said that the resource constraint didn't deter it to tackle Covid surge and despite being a small state, it gives a tough fight to overcome Coronavirus crisis.

The government in a statement said that free vaccination will be provided to 1.34 crore people in the age group of 18-44 in the state. The state government has demanded 25 lakh doses of Covaxin and Covishield vaccines for this.

In the absence of vaccine as per demand, the State Government has taken the initiative to give highest priority in immunization to socially and economically weaker sections.

Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel had also demanded on-site registration facility from the Prime Minister so that no one is deprived of vaccination.

The state government is fighting with all its might to contain the rapid surge in coronavirus cases and is hopeful that it will soon recover from the pandemic riding on the strong intentions and public welfare decisions of the government.

The state government focused on testing, tracing, treatment and vaccination and it has become its main weapon in the fight against coronavirus. So far, about 7 lakh 44 thousand people have been infected in Chhattisgarh, out of which 6 lakh 14 thousand people have recovered.

Currently, there are 1 lakh 30 thousand active patients in the state with 82.5 per cent recovery rate, which is much higher than many big states. Daily testing in Chhattisgarh is 2,069 per million, which is better than the average of many large states and the country.

The state government has put in all its efforts in developing resources in a short span of time -- 37 Dedicated Covid Hospitals and a total of 154 Covid Care Centres including 6 Medical Colleges and AIIMS Raipur were constructed in the state.

An online website has been created for the information about vacant beds in these hospitals. Details on availability of beds in the hospital is easily available on website-- cgcovidjansahayta.com.

The state is also ahead of many states in terms of Covid vaccination. More than 55 lakh 71 thousand dose vaccines have been administered in the state. Chhattisgarh has the second-best performance in the entire country in terms of vaccination of health workers.

At the same time, Chhattisgarh state ranks fourth in immunization for the age group of more than 45 years.

Apart from this, Chhattisgarh has the 6th best performance in vaccination of front-line workers.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Nay Pyi Taw, May 3 : Diplomatic missions in Myanmar used the occasion of World Press Freedom Day on Monday to call attention to the country's continued detainment of journalists and restrictions on local media.

"Today, no major independent printed media is operating in Myanmar, and internet shutdowns continue to be used to control news coverage, communications and access to information," said the missions.

More than 80 journalists have been detained since a February 1 coup by the military, more than half of whom remain in custody, reports dpa news agency.

Media companies have also been targeted through raids and having their licences revoked.

In the joint statement, signed by countries including Germany, the US, Australia and the Czech Republic, the military leaders of Myanmar were called on to release media workers, roll back internet restrictions and establish the freedom to access information.

"It is unacceptable that the journalists who work for access to information have to be arrested and detained in prison," Hmue Eain Zaw, a journalist from Myanmar, told dpa.

Since the coup, Myanmar's military has brutally cracked down on ongoing demonstrations.

Protests resumed on Monday, but they were not as large as those over the weekend, when at least five demonstrators were killed by soldiers in various parts of the country.

According to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners, at least 765 people have been killed and over 4,600 have been arrested since the coup.
Hyderabad, May 3 : A day after he was dropped from council of ministers over allegations of land encroachment, Eatala Rajender hit back at Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao asking him if link road to his farm house was not laid illegally through assigned and private lands.

Addressing a news conference here on Monday, Rajender alleged that the chief minister was using all institutions under his control to target him. He, however, made it clear that he was not the one to be cowed down.

"I am not scared by threats of arrests and cases. You have deployed hundreds of policemen around my house. Book whatever case you want to book against me. I will approach the court," he said.

Rajender also told KCR, as the chief minister is popularly known, that no minister is wholeheartedly supporting him. He said no minister was with KCR out of respect and they know how he treat those who differ from him.

The chief minister had ordered an inquiry against Rajender on April 30 after some farmers from Medak district complained to him that he encroached their assigned lands for poultry farm. The next day, the chief minister took away health portfolio from Rajender. After the receipt of preliminary report from Medak district collector that 66 acres of assigned lands were encroached, Rajender was dropped from cabinet on Sunday.

Denying the allegations that he encroached assigned lands in two villages of Medak district, Rajender said he did no wrong and was ready to face impartial probe into his assets, income and businesses by a sitting judge and not by officials and committees that work under the chief minister.

He pointed out that those who conducted the investigation did not even seek their clarification. "We neither took five paise assistance from the government nor took five kunta land," he said.

Rajender alleged that the report by officials against him is full of lies. He said he was not director in Jamuna Hatcheries which was run by his wife and son.

Rajender made it clear that he has no plans to float a new political party. He said he will decide future course of action after consultation with the people of his constituency Huzurabad. He claimed that people have the feeling that injustice was done to him.

Stating that he worked with KCR for 19 years, Rajender said as the floor leader of the party in the Assembly he always defended the TRS chief. He said he never worked to bring bad name to the party, government or KCR.

He said as the leader of Telangana movement, KCR never supported any wrongdoing. "Such a leader is today using his power against a small man like me. He is using all departments against me," said an emotional Rajender.
Mumbai, May 3 : Stand-up comic and actor Vir Das announced on Monday that he has raised about Rs 7 lakh for charity, apart from entertaining 200 doctors and nurses over the weekend.

"Very happy to announce we raised about 7 lakhs for both our charities, and also made 200 doctors and nurses laugh this weekend. Thank you to everyone who bought tickets. We will make sure the money gets to those who need it. #VirDasAtHome," Vir tweeted.

Last month, he had shared on the micro-blogging website that he was hosting a charity show for doctors and nurses.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Jamala Rogers is an award-winning featured columnist for The St. Louis American, St. Louis largest weekly newspaper. She has authored many articles for both local and national publications on issues that she is passionately involved in. She is the author of The Best of the Way I See It, a compilation of her political writings over the last twenty years.
Chennai, May 3 : Senior Congress leader and former Chief Minister of Puducherry, V. Narayanasamy has taken moral responsibility for the defeat of the party in the Assembly elections.

While he was leading the Congress in the elections, he preferred not to contest the polls.

The NDA has secured a majority in the elections to the Puducherry Union Territory with the AINRC bagging 10 seats and the BJP 6 seats in the 30-member Assembly. DMK won 6 seats while the Congress had to remain satisfied with 2 seats. Six Independent candidates have also won the elections.

Narayanasamy while speaking to IANS said, "I owe the responsibility for the drubbing in the April 6 Assembly elections and bow my head before the verdict given by the people of Puducherry." The former Chief Minister had drawn flak for his poor performance and the unpopularity of Narayanasamy as Chief minister was highlighted during the elections. Moreover, the Congress could only win two seats in the elections and faced its worst drubbing in the history of Puducherry Assembly elections.

Ramesh Parambath of the Congress who scraped through from Mahe near Thalassery Assembly constituency in Kerala, won by a margin of 300 votes against the CPI-M candidate Haridasan Master. The other Congressman to win was M. Vaithianathan who joined the party after he was denied a ticket from the AINRC. He defeated BJP Puducherry state president V. Saminathan by a margin of 5,701 votes.

The anti incumbency factor came out heavily against the Congress in the elections. Several Congress leaders had quit the party and joined the AINRC and the BJP before the polls. Congress turncoats A.K.D.V. Aroumougham and K.S.P. Ramesh won. While Aroumougham defeated his nearest rival M. Kannan of the Congress by 18,531 votes, Ramesh beat Congress leader P. Selvanadane by a margin of 12,246 votes. These two were the highest margins won by the NDA candidates and both these leaders were earlier from the Congress.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Bengaluru, May 3 : The Karnataka government has ordered a probe into the tragic death of 23 Covid patients due to interruption in the supply of medical oxygen at the Chamarajanagar Institute of Medical Sciences (CIMS) in Chamarajanagar district on Monday.

According to the notification issued by N. Manjunath Prasad, Principal Secretary in the Revenue Deparrtment, senior IAS officer Shivayogi Kalasad, who is also Managing Director of Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC), has been appointed as the inquiry officer to probe the incident.

Describing the incident as a matter of grave concern, Prasad, who is also the member secretary of the Karnataka Disaster Management Authority, directed Kalsad to file a detailed report within three days.

At least 23 patients died at CIMS in the wee hours of Monday after their oxygen supply dropped, officials said.

"The deaths were reported after there was a fall in oxygen supply between 12 midnight and 2 a.m. At least 144 patients were being treated at the hospital when the tragedy struck," said a senior official at CIMS.

CIMS Director D.M. Sanjeev told reporters that due to a shortage of oxygen, 23 patients who were on ventilator support and needed high flow of oxygen have died.

"Of these, 18 were suffering from comorbidities and had long-standing problems. Right now we need 350 oxygen cylinders a day, an increase from 35-40 cylinders daily, but our vendors are not able to match the rise in demand. We faced a major shortage due to delay in supply because of the widespread increase in demand," he explained.

The district has reported a total of 11,928 Covid cases since the beginning of the pandemic. At least 167 people have fallen prey to the virus until Sunday.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)

-- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed
Chandigarh, May 3 : Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Monday appealed to the Centre for more oxygen tankers to be made available to the state, which did not have enough such vehicles to transport the life-saving gas for seriously ill Covid-19 patients.

The Chief Minister, at the Covid review meeting, said the state urgently need more tankers, as it currently had only 15 at its disposal, with two more likely to come in by Tuesday.

These, he said, were not enough to handle the requirement for transporting the oxygen supplies coming in from other states.

Punjab has 195 metric tonnes (MT) allocation from various plants in other states, but the actual supply received over the past seven days has been around 110-120 MT daily, and this has also been erratic, the Chief Minister noted.

In this period, the number of patients on oxygen support has gone up from 4,000 to around 9,000, and though the state government's steps to monitor and streamline supplies through its controls rooms has helped in keeping things stable, the situation remains fluid and a matter of concern, he added.

The current consumption of oxygen in the state is more than 225 MT daily, while the average increase in demand every day is around 15-20 per cent.

Chief Secretary Vini Mahajan told the meeting that in addition to the shortage of trucks available with transporters in the state, the fact that a tanker takes around four-five days to bring the 90 MT quota allocation from a Bokaro plant has made things worse.

Unless the state gets more tankers, the situation could aggravate, she added.

In addition to 90 MT from Bokaro, the state's current allocation is: 60 MT from a plant in Himachal Pradesh's Baddi, 20 MT from a plant in Haryana's Panipat, and 15 MT from a plant in Roorkee and 10 MT from plant in Dehradun, both in Uttarakhand.

Besides, around 80 MT is generated daily from the state ASUs & local PSA, and steps are being taken to increase production on a continuous basis, she said, adding, however, that this was not sufficient to meet the increasing demand.

Medical Education Minister O.P. Soni said more oxygen cylinders were also needed at government hospitals to meet the growing requirement.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
New Delhi, May 3 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a telephonic conversation with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Monday, and discussed the prevailing Covid-19 situation in India and the ongoing efforts to contain the second wave of the pandemic.

The two leaders exchanged views on the Covid-19 situation in India ahead of the India-EU leaders' meeting on May 8.

Modi expressed his appreciation of the EU and its member states for mobilising quick support for India's fight against the second wave of the pandemic.

Both the leaders also noted that the India-EU strategic partnership is witnessing a renewed momentum since the last summit in July last year.

The leaders agreed that the forthcoming India-EU leaders' meeting on May 8 in virtual form is an important opportunity to provide renewed momentum to the already multi-faceted India-EU relationship.

The India-EU leaders' meeting will be the first in the EU+27 format and reflects the shared ambition of both sides for further strengthening the India-EU strategic partnership.

The conversation took place at a time when India reported 3,68,147 fresh cases and 3,417 fatalities in the last 24 hours on Monday. It was the 12th straight day when India reported more than 3 lakh cases while over 3,000 casualties have been reported for the past six days.

India's total tally of Covid-19 cases now stands at 1,99,25,604 with 34,13,642 active cases. As many as 2,18,959 persons have fallen prey to the virus so far.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
New Delhi, May 3 : Two-wheeler major Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India on Monday reported total sales of 283,045 units in April.

The company sold 240,100 two-wheelers in the domestic market.

The domestic sales were nil during the same period last year due to the national lockdown.

"With stricter lockdowns being announced across regions amidst the 2nd wave of Covid, Honda prioritised the safety of all its stakeholders and pro-actively controlled its dispatches to avoid inventory build-up across its network Pan-India," it said in a statement.

Similarly, Honda's April'21 exports zoomed to 42,945 units from 2,630 units exported last April.

Last month was the first time in 36 months that Honda's exports crossed the 40,000 units mark.

According to the company, 'Made in India' BS-VI models are being exported to Europe (SP 125) and also Japan (H'ness CB 350 and CB 350RS).

"Regional lockdowns since the beginning of April have dragged down the consumer sentiments considerably. While the need for personal mobility still exists, the recovery may be pushed back by few months as 'Staying Safe at Home' is India's first priority," said Yadvinder Singh Guleria, Director - Sales and Marketing, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India.

"Starting 1st May, we have already temporarily halted production operations across all four plants till the first fortnight of May. In view of the evolving Covid situation and subsequent multiple lockdowns, we are closely monitoring the evolving business landscape. While continuing to support our business partners in these uncertain times, we will review our plans accordingly in the short term," he added.
Srinagar, May 3 : The Jammu and Kashmir government has dismissed a teacher, an executive magistrate and an assistant professor from service "for their involvement in anti-state activities".

In April 30, the UT government announced a special task force that would scrutinise the antecedents of government employees and recommend their dismissal from government service if they were found involved in anti-state activities.

Acting on the recommendations of this task force, Lt Governor Manoj Sinha has approved the dismissal of a school teacher, and an Assistant Professor from Kupwara district, and an executive magistrate (Naib Tehsildar) belonging to Pulwama district.
Los Angeles, May 3 : American rock band The Offspring talks of everything that is happening in the United States right now in their 10th LP, "Let The Bad Times Roll".

Frontman Dexter Holland says there has been a lot of "crazy politics" going on in the US, which is why this is the right time for the album to come out.

"It felt right to be writing these songs that talk about what's going on right now. The time was right for this record. The social upheaval of the past year has been incredible. There's a lot of crazy politics going on," Holland said, in an interview with contactmusic.com.

He added: "There's definitely been things going on in the US that feel very America-centric to us. But we see it going on around the world too -- in Hong Kong, for example, and Myanmar." The band, which had been together for eight years, got their big break with their 1994 album "Smash".

Recalling those days, Holland said: "Talk about a complete change of life. Within three months, we'd gone from what we were to being a full-time punk rock group, or rock'n'roll band. It was a rollercoaster, (by then) we'd been doing the band for a long time, and that was an advantage for us."
Hyderabad, May 3 : Telangana's ruling Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) swept the municipal elections, capturing five urban local bodies and was leading in two others.

Greater Warangal and Khammam Municipal Corporations and five municipalities had gone to polls on April 30.

The TRS has captured Siddipet, Kothur, Nakrekal, Atchampet and Jadcherla municipalities and was leading in both the corporations.

In Siddipet, the TRS has bagged 32 seats while results have been declared for 34 out of 43 wards. The BJP and others won a seat each.

In the 27-member Jadcherla municipality, the TRS won 23 seats. The BJP and the Congress bagged two seats each.

In 20-member Atchampet, the TRS won 13 seats. The Congress finished second with six seats while the BJP secured a single seat.

In Nakrekal, the TRS won 11 of the 20 seats. The Congress won two seats while independents were elected from seven wards.

In the 12-member Kothur municipality, the TRS won seven seats. The Congress bagged five seats.

In the 66-member Warangal Municipal Corporation, the TRS was leading with 27 seats. The BJP bagged seven wards and the Congress four. Two independents were also elected.

The TRS was also ahead in 60-member Khammam Municipal Corporation by winning 22 seats. Congress was at the second position by bagging six seats. The BJP won a seat while others won a seat each.

About 70 per cent voters cast their votes in seven urban local bodies on Friday.

Polling was also held for the by-elections to four wards in four municipalities and one ward in Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC).

A total of 11,59,112 voters including 5,84,963 women were eligible to cast their votes in these elections.

As many as 1,307 candidates including 480 independents were in the fray in two corporations and five municipalities. Fourteen candidates tested their political fortunes in four wards while five candidates were in fray in Lingojiguda ward in GHMC.
Mumbai, May 3 : In a fresh development in the sensational phone-tapping case, senior IPS officer Rashmi Shukla on Monday moved the Bombay High Court seeking quashing of an FIR lodged against her by the Mumbai Police, staying any coercive action or alternatively transferring the case to the CBI.

A former Commissioner of State Intelligence Department (SID), Shukla is presently the Additional Director-General of CRPF (South Zone), based in Hyderabad.

Her lawyer Sameer Nangre sought an urgent hearing on the matter on Tuesday (May 4), contending that the 1988 batch IPS officer is apprehending arrest, and sought directions to the Mumbai Police to refrain from taking any coercive action against Shukla.

Terming the police case as 'bogus' and 'frivolous', Shukla's plea said that the state is trying to arm-twist the petitioner.

On March 26, following a complaint by the SID, the Mumbai Police had lodged an FIR at the BKC Cyber Police Station against unknown persons for alleged illegal phone tapping and invoked sections under the Official Secrets Act, Information Technology Act and Indian Telegraph Act.

The alleged phone-tapping incidents had taken place during Shukla's tenure as the SID chief last year and the matter came out after BJP Leader of Opposition Devendra Fadnavis revealed a letter written by Shukla to the then Director-General of Police in August 2020, about alleged corrupt practices in police transfers and promotions.

Following a political uproar, several leaders of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government in Maharashtra accused Shukla of tapping phones unauthorisedly, and subsequently Chief Secretary Sitaram Kunte submitted a report on the matter to Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on March 25.

Among other things, Kunte's detailed report accused Shukla of misusing her official position and overstepping her brief. When confronted, she admitted her mistake and even apologised, citing personal and family issues, after which the state government took a sympathetic view and did not take any action.

After the FIR was registered, the Mumbai Police served two summons to Shukla on April 26 and April 28, seeking her presence to record her statement, but she failed to appearbefore the police.

In her plea to the court on Monday, Shukla said she had exposed the alleged nexus between ministers and politicians in the matter of gross corruption pertaining to the police department, but instead of appreciating her work, the government authorities were trying to frame her in a false criminal case.
Mumbai, May 3 : India's key benchmark equity indices closed on a flat note on Monday as robust quarterly results, along with an upbeat corporate outlook, aided in the recovery from the early losses.

The two indices opened lower in line with other Asian markets and post the unexciting performance of BJP in the recently-concluded state elections.

Globally, Asian share markets started off slow on Monday, as holidays in China and Japan thinned volumes.

However, European stocks drifted higher on Monday after strong euro zone factory activity and German retail sales data highlighted a quick rebound in economic growth.

On the domestic front, steady corporate earnings and positive management commentaries supported the pullback in the market.

Among sectors, metals and FMCGs were the main gainers while banks, media and realty were the main losers.

Consequently, the S&P BSE Sensex closed at 48,718.52, lower by 63.84 points, or 0.13 per cent, from its previous close.

The Nifty50 of the National Stock Exchange ended the day's trade at 14,634.15, up 3.05 points, or 0.02 per cent, from its previous close.

"Nifty bounced up smartly from the intra day lows going against the Asian negative mood. 14,694-14,747 is the next resistance band for the Nifty while 14,493 is the support level," said Deepak Jasani, Head of Retail Research at HDFC Securities.

"Broader market continues to do well as is clear from the positive advance decline ratio while frontline stocks remain volatile based on institutional flows." Siddhartha Khemka, Head, Retail Research, Motilal Oswal Financial Services, said: "As daily coronavirus cases near the 4 lakh mark, the Supreme Court urged the Centre and states to consider imposing a lockdown or stricter restrictions to rein in the Covid-19 spread. Even industry body CII urged the government to take strongest national steps including curtailing economic activity to contain the spike in Covid-19 cases in the country." "This, along with steady corporate earnings and positive management commentaries, supported the pullback in the market. Metals rallied after the steel companies hiked the prices once again in May. Apart from metals, sugar stocks were also in limelight post the reports that the raw sugar price has rebounded on account of poor production outlook in top exporter Brazil, where dry weather has curbed yields."

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
New Delhi, May 3 : The Jamaat-e-Islami Hind (JIH) on Monday said it has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to call a meeting of social and religious organisations and volunteer groups to discuss the health crisis confronting the nation in wake of the Covid surge.

Addressing a press conference, JIH President Syed Sadatullah Husaini said: "We have written a letter to the Hon'ble Prime Minister of India. We have stated three things in our letter. One is concern over the various administrative lapses during the second wave that have resulted in shortage of beds, oxygen, medicines and vaccines.

"Secondly, we pointed out the spiritual and moral dimension of the pandemic and how it is a divine warning to prepare us for greater calamities in this world and the hereafter. Thirdly, we have requested the PM to convene a meeting with all religious organisations and volunteer groups to discuss the grave situation prevailing in the country and explore the various means and avenues to collaborate with the government for alleviating the suffering of our people." Earlier, JIH Vice President Mohammad Salim Engineer, who briefed the media on the results of the assembly elections, also expressed concerns over the second Covid wave.

"The results of the just concluded assembly elections have shown that the people of India have largely rejected the politics of hate and religious polarisation. This is a positive development for democracy and communal amity and Jamaat-e-Islami Hind hopes this trend will continue in the future. The elections of West Bengal were particularly critical as all efforts were made to polarise the electorate along with the misuse of our autonomous institutions.

The JIH said that it hopes that the secular parties will form a pre-poll alliance to defeat the communal forces in future electoral battles and "save the country from hate and injustice".

About the second wave, Engineer said: "Our health infrastructure is falling woefully short of standing up to the massive spike in corona cases. There is acute shortage of beds, ventilators and critical medicines for those affected by the virus. The surge in cases is not only alarming for us but also a threat to the global fight against the pandemic.

"We are paying the price of becoming complacent after the first wave and not planning correctly. Jamaat-e-Islami Hind has been consistently demanding that the government must increase its allocation towards the health sector. We support the idea of universal healthcare and urge the government to start moving in this direction as proof of learning a bitter lesson from the second wave." The Jamaat also said that its cadres are carrying out relief and charitable services such as creating awareness regarding the observance of safety protocols, vaccination and the implementation of recommended health guidelines.

"Our doctors and healthcare professionals are providing free consultation and counseling. Our volunteers are helping people through guidance centres/help-desks/ 24x7 helplines by providing oxygen cylinders, transportation, and ambulance services. We help needy people with food and medicines. At some places, we have started dedicated Covid Care Centers and are trying to establish more such facilities in collaboration with the local authorities," it said.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Shimla, May 3 : The Himachal Pradesh High Court on Monday reminded a government doctor, who had challenged the order of his deputation to a makeshift Covid-19 hospital, that in the garb of self-unwillingness to serve, he cannot be permitted to shirk his responsibilities.

"This tendency has to be dealt and curbed with an iron fist," ruled a division bench comprising Justices Tarlok Singh Chauhan and Chander Bhusan Barowalia, while dismissing a petition filed by Vishal Koundal, who was shifted to a makeshift Covid hospital in Una from Kangra.

In the plea, Koundal had said that he suffered accidental injuries in 2018 and was unable to serve at the place of deputation.

"The petitioner has failed to realise the health workers in overcrowded hospitals, the policemen and other frontline workers who are already beset with overwhelming load of Covid-19 patients and these workers are exhausted from almost an year of restless fighting against the pandemic," the bench observed.

The court also said that the state is currently fighting the grimmest battle against Covid-19, which is nothing short of a disaster culminating in mass deaths and, therefore, it is imperative that the frontline workers are made to work on a rotation basis or else the health system is likely to collapse with the sudden and drastic surge in Covid-19 cases.

The bench said the petitioner was trying to escape from the duties and responsibilities that have now been assigned to him as there "is no contemporaneous records to show the petitioner is in any manner incapacitated to serve at the transferred station and if the petitioner is fit enough to render his services in Kangra district, why he cannot serve at the Covid makeshift hospital in Una district".

"A government servant is a holder of a status and that cannot be made depending on his will. Once a person accepts the status as per the rules, he no longer remains a simple individual, but becomes an integral part of governance and at times even the face of the government," the bench noted.

The court also said that in the garb of self-unwillingness to serve, the petitioner cannot be permitted to shirk his duties and responsibilities and this tendency has to be dealt and curbed with an iron fist.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Bhopal, May 3 : The Bharatiya Janata Party's defeat in Madhya Pradesh's Damoh Assembly by-election has created quite a political stir. The party is not only introspecting the reasons but the party's own leaders are under the scanner for the defeat.

The Congress had won from Damoh in the Assembly elections held in 2018 and Rahul Lodhi was elected. He had defeated BJP candidate Jayant Malaiya, who had won from there for six consecutive terms.

After quitting the Congress, Rahul Lodhi recently joined the BJP and during the 2021 Damoh by-poll, he contested the election on the saffron party's ticket against Congress candidate Ajay Tandon who defeated him by over 17,000 votes.

The party organisation and the BJP government had put in huge efforts despite which Lodhi lost.

Former minister Jayant Malaiya was a major contender for the BJP ticket from Damoh Assembly constituency. Malaiya initially expressed displeasure over Rahul Lodhi being nominated as the BJP candidate but the party managed to placate him and he was actively involved in the poll campaign.

Union Minister Prahlad Patel's statement in which he allegedly referred to the Ramayana did not go down well with a particular community.

The party's state organisation was fully aware that there was a lot of resentment against Rahul Lodhi in the Damoh assembly constituency. This was the reason that the party's state unit President, Vishnu Datt Sharma, and several officials of the organisation camped in Damoh. For a fortnight Sharma and other leaders held separate meetings with various people. The public openly expressed their anger against Rahul Lodhi.

People said that they are not angry with the BJP but want to teach a lesson to Lodhi. Despite this Vishnu Datt Sharma tried to convince the people to support the party due to which some people agreed to lend their support but a large number of people refused to support the BJP.

After the announcement of the election results, Rahul Lodhi had openly accused former minister Jayant Malaiya and other party leaders and said the elections were lost due to their treachery. His potshots were directly aimed at Jayant Malaiya.

State Home Minister Narottam Mishra also blamed party leaders for the poll defeat and said, "We have not lost Damoh Assembly seat but instead we have been deceived by deceitful people. This time we have lost the polls due to 'Jaichands' (traitors) in our party. The Congress should not be too happy over the Damoh victory. (Former CM) Kamal Nath should introspect upon how the Congress has been eliminated from the entire country." Speaking on the defeat in Damoh, Vishnu Datt Sharma said, "We accept people's verdict in the Damoh by-election. Congratulations to Congress candidate Ajay Tandon. Our party workers worked tirelessly at the booth level during the Damoh by-election. I thank them for their contribution. We must not get discouraged with the poll results but move forward with a resolve to further strengthen the organisation. Also we will sit down with the local party workers of Damoh and review the reasons for the failure in depth." Asked about the Congress' win in Damoh, former Chief Minister Kamal Nath said the victory was ultimately of truth. The public has taught the BJP a lesson with this poll result, Nath added.

Political analysts believe that the rejection of the BJP's candidate in Damoh is a lesson for parties that they cannot win elections by making anyone they want the candidate.

Several controversial statements and 'treachery' by many BJP leaders also paved the way for the saffron party's defeat. In Damoh, it is not the BJP but Rahul Lodhi who has been defeated while Congress candidate Ajay Tandon has won and not the grand old party, said analysts.
Kolkata: People stand in a queue at a liquor store, due to partial lockdown starting from tomorrow. Only essential commodities and medicine shops are open, and other shop and market places are open from 7am to10am & 3pm to 5pm ,in Kolkata. (Photo: K Image Source: IANS News

Mumbai, May 3 : With Covid-19 wreaking havoc in the country, average monthly rentals across the key high street markets in top cities witnessed some corrections, according to data from Anarock Research.

The Anarock data showed that the most expensive retail hub of the country, Khan Market, in the national capital, saw a drop of between 8-17 per cent in average monthly rentals in Q1 2021, as against Q1 2020.

The average monthly rentals hovered in the range of Rs 1,000-1,100 per square feet as on Q1 2021-end in Khan Market. Likewise, in GK-1 M Block, rentals reduced between 13-14 per cent and are presently in the range of Rs 300-350 per square feet.

Likewise, high street markets of Kala Ghoda, Bandra Linking Road and Fort in Mumbai, one of the worst-affected cities in India, also saw high street retail rentals decline by 5-10 per cent during the same period.

Kolkata also saw a decline in its high street rental rates, Gariyhaat Rash Bihari Avenue being the worst affected in the city with rental rates dropping to Rs 160- 220 per square feet in Q1 2021 from Rs 250-260 per square feet in Q1 2020.

Pankaj Renjhen, COO & Joint MD of Anarock Retail said: "Retail sector has been one of the worst affected due to the pandemic since early 2020. With almost zero sales amidst lockdown and thereafter as well for few months, we saw retailers closing their stores or even curtailing their future expansion plans." "As a result, the average monthly rentals across the major high street retail markets mostly saw corrections across cities," he said.

The COO, however, added that there were few markets that saw an upward trend.

Hyderabad localities such as Gachibowli, Banjara Hills, and Jubilee Hills saw average retail rentals increase in Q1 2021 against Q1 2020, as per the data.

"If we consider trends of the previous two quarters, the retail segment seemed to be on the verge of recovery and was gradually inching towards the pre-pandemic-level business. However, the second wave has once again crimped this growth," Renjhen said.

In an overall trend, many of the prominent high streets in the country saw reduced monthly rentals over the last one year.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Mumbai, May 3 : Actor Sonu Sood arranged for a critically-ill Covid patient to be airlifted from Jhansi to Hyderabad after doctors at the local hospital said treatment wouldn't be possible in Jhansi any longer.

The patient, Kailash Agarwal's CT score was just a point below the highest permissible limit and the family, while searching for a hospital with better infrastructure, put in a request to Sonu.

The actor and his team got into action, which led to availability of an ICU bed with ventilator facility in Hyderabad.

"Doctors had asked the patient to be shifted to a bigger hospital, and the challenge was to get the necessary permissions from the District Magistrates in order to get the air ambulance and get the transfer done. As there are no airports at Jhansi, the air ambulance had to pick up the patient from Gwalior, and it was another major challenge to bring the patient from Jhansi to Gwalior. But the team came through and got everything set up so that no time was wasted. The treatment is going on well at Apollo Hospital, Hyderabad, and we hope for the best," Sonu told IANS.

As per the latest reports, the patient is stable and is responding to treatment.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
New Delhi, May 3 : The Indian Navy is transporting oxygen containers as well as other essential supplies from Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait and Singapore to India, Navy chief Admiral Karambir Singh told Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday during a review meeting on the Covid related initiatives undertaken by the force.

Admiral Singh informed the Prime Minister about the various initiatives being taken by the Indian Navy to assist the countrymen during the pandemic.

He informed the Prime Minister that the Indian Navy has reached out to all the state administrations, offering help in terms of hospital beds, transportation and other such things.

He apprised the Prime Minister about the naval hospitals being opened for use of civilians in various cities.

Singh also informed Modi that medical personnel in the Navy have been re-deployed at various locations in the country to manage Covid duties. Naval personnel are also being provided battlefield nursing assistace training for Covid duties.

Singh briefed the Prime Minister that the Navy is helping to increase oxygen availability in Lakshadweep as well as Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Seven Indian Navy ships have been deployed for shipment of liquid medical oxygen-filled cryogenic containers and associated medical equipment from various countries in the fight against the pandemic.

"The INS Kolkata, Kochi, Talwar, Tabar, Trikand, Jalashwa and Airavat have been deployed for shipment of liquid medical oxygen-filled cryogenic containers in support of the nation's fight against Covid-19 and as part of operation 'Samudra Setu II'," the Navy had stated earlier.

The Navy also has the surge capability to deploy more ships when the need arises to further the nation's fight against Covid-19.

The ships are combat ready and capable of meeting any contingency in keeping with the attributes of versatility of sea power.

Operation Samudra Setu was launched last year by the Navy when around 4,000 Indian citizens stranded in the neighbouring countries due to the outbreak of Covid-19 were successfully repatriated back to India.

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Panaji, May 3 : In developments which could raise questions about Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant's grip over administration, ruling and opposition MLAs as well as individual village panchayats over the last 24 hours have announced a series of sporadic lockdowns in their respective areas, even as the government-enforced four-day lockdown wound to a close on Monday.

The sporadic 'voluntary' lockdowns, which involve closure of businesses and commercial establishments, are in defiance of Sawant's recent public appeals, in which the Chief Minister has repeatedly insisted that a lockdown was not an ideal option to tackle the menacing spread of Covid-19, as it severely impacts the state economy.

On Monday, hours after the government-enforced lockdown ended, at least three village panchayats have resolved to impose a lockdown in their own jurisdictions.

Other lockdowns have also been announced by BJP MLA Joshua De Souza, who has appealed for a closure of the popular Mapusa market and Leader of Opposition Digambar Kamat who has appealed for the municipal market in Margao, in South Goa, to go under lockdown for at least a week.

"I have a responsibility towards the people of Mapusa and their best interests are my utmost priority. The government has enforced restrictions till May 10 and we should now do our bit towards a voluntary lockdown in light of the rising covid cases," De Souza said, adding that the lockdown would help break the chain of Covid-19 infections which have reached a record high in the coastal state.

The Mapusa Merchants Association has supported De Souza's call for the lockdown till May 10.

"My responsibility as MLA of Margao constituency is to ensure safety of Madgaonkars. I had urged for extension of lockdown in Goa but the government refused. My humble request to Madgaonkars is to go for voluntary lockdown for a week from tomorrow to help in our fight against #Covid," Kamat said, adding that he had spoken to the merchants association in Margao town, who have agreed to co-operate with him.

Michael Lobo, the Ports Minister in the Sawant cabinet, has already enforced a lockdown in three villages in his jurisdiction, which includes the popular beach villages of Candolim and Calangute, which serve as the engines of Goa's mass-based tourism economy.

Even Opposition MLA Rohan Khaunte, a legislator from Porvorim, a Panaji suburb, has also called for a lockdown in two village panchayat jurisdictions, which are in his control.

"The world is going through precarious times right now. As a response to the rising cases in Porvorim, the villages of Salvador Do Mundo and Penha De Franca have voluntarily opted for a 15 day lockdown. I urge each one of you to co-operate with us to contain the spread and come together so that we can come out of this crisis stronger," Khaunte said.

The sporadic lockdowns have come as an embarrassment for the ruling BJP, especially at a time when the party's government has been criticised for mishandling the ongoing Covid-19 management efforts.

"These lockdowns question the very base of government leadership. The state administration has to crack down on these self-imposed lockdowns, which are challenging the authority of the state, especially in times of crisis," a senior BJP leader told IANS on condition of anonymity.

The four-day lockdown, which ended on Monday morning, was imposed by Sawant in wake of a steep spike in Covid-19 cases in the state. There are currently 24,607 active cases reported in Goa.

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New Delhi, May 3 : A special NIA court in Kerala's Ernakulam on Monday sentenced a fake Indian currency note (FICN) racketeer to six years rigorous imprisonment besides imposing a fine in connection with the Thrissur FICN case.

An NIA spokesperson said here that the special court for NIA cases in Ernakulam convicted Ali Hossain aka Mohammed Ali Hossain, 30, a resident of Murshidabad district in West Bengal, under several sections of the Indian Penal Code in a 2018 FICN case and sentenced him to six years rigorous imprisonment besides imposing a fine of Rs 85,000 on him for his role in procuring, possessing and circulating FICN in Kerala.

The official said that a case was originally registered at the Thrissur East police station on August 19, 2018 against Hossain following the seizure of two FICNs of Rs 2,000 denomination from his possession.A Based on Hossain's interrogation, 101 fake notes of Rs 2,000 face value each were recovered from his residence in Palakkad district.

NIA had taken over the case on October 27, 2018.

The official said that investigation had revealed that in 2018, Hossain had conspired with accused Alim Sheik, a Bangladeshi national who is absconding, to smuggle FICN into Kerala, with an intention to use the same as genuine Indian currency for unlawful gains.

The official said that on August 19, 2018, Hossain had knowingly tried to use the counterfeit currency notes of Rs 2,000 denomination as genuine tender in shops at Thrissur where they were detected following which he was arrested.
Mumbai, May 3 : Actress Neha Dhupia on Monday tweeted urging fans to stay strong as India battles the deadly second wave of Covid-19. The actress requested all to stay at home and be safe, but also encouraged them to be "positive".

"Stay strong, stay positive , stay home , stay safe," she wrote.

Talking about the situation today, the actress also posted: "Somewhere between hope and despair..." Neha has always been very vocal about the issues that she believes in. She also took to social media recently to talk about how we should "normalise" breastfeeding and not "sexualise" it. She spoke about how breastfeeding mothers are looked at in a sexual manner.

Neha and her husband actor Angad Bedi were blessed with a baby after six months after their wedding. The couple had a baby girl, Mehr, in 2018.
Jerusalem, May 3 : The widespread use of face masks outdoors during the Covid-19 pandemic has led to 65 per cent reduction in serious asthma cases that required hospitalisation, according to a study.

Face masks also helped decrease the spread of viruses such as the flu in the past year, researchers from Israel's Sheba Medical Centre were quoted as saying by Times of Israel.

By wearing masks, people are also less likely to suffer from seasonal allergies, as face coverings prevent pollen from flowers, trees, and grass coming into contact with the nose and mouth.

Israel recently lifted the nationwide mandate on mask-wearing outdoors. However, masks must still be worn in public spaces indoors, and the Health Ministry also recommended they continue to be worn outdoors in large gatherings, the report said.

Wearing masks during the pandemic reduced cases of flu this year and also reportedly affected the first-quarter profit of Swiss drugmakers Novartis and Roche.

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Today, Americans who rely on public transportation to get to work spend twice as long commuting as those who drive. And its not as reliable as it should be, Buttigieg told The Associated Press. A lot of this is because of the age of our transit infrastructure  across the country there are systems in urgent need of upgrade and modernization. Every American should have access to good options for affordable, fast, safe and reliable public transit  particularly those for whom transit is the only viable option.
Mumbai, May 3 : Actress Karishma Tanna has tagged herself as a "Black and White person in a colourful world". Karishma on Monday posted a picture on Instagram, where she is seen posing in a black and white pants with sunglasses. The picture is from her vacation in Goa, going by the hashtags she has used.

"I am a very Black and White person living in a colourful world," Karishma posted alongside the image.

She used hashtags #mood #goa #love #potd to describe the picture.

Karishma was last seen in "Lahore Confidential", Kunal Kohli' spy drama that dropped digitally earlier this year. Her special dance number "Basanti" in last year's comedy release "Suraj Pe Mangal Bhari" became quite popular.
Mumbai, May 3 : Director Harish Vyas says his new film "Hum Bhi Akele Tum Bhi Akele" celebrates the love and friendship that two homosexual characters share.

"'Hum Bhi Akele Tum Bhi Akele' is a human story of a special friendship that blooms, by chance, between a man and woman -- both homosexuals -- who are not only polar opposites -- think yin and yang -- but have had completely different personal journeys," says Vyas.

"My endeavour with this film is to bring forth the warm, positive, loving embrace that is the soul of friendship, and to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community to which I have been close to. We are grateful to have had a universal audience in New York, Australia and all the festivals where the film was showered with love, and global recognitions," adds the filmmaker, who earlier directed "Angrezi Mein Kehte Hain".

"After 'Angrezi Mein Kehte Hain' I wanted to follow up with a light, compassionate journey to re-discover love and friendship. 'Hum Bhi Akele Tum Bhi Akele' is the culmination of that thought," Vyas explains.

The film features Anshuman Jha, Zareen Khan.

Anshuman said: "The intent has been to bring forth a 'pure' story. The Supreme Court of India has legalised homosexuality but there is still a section of society that considers it a taboo in India. My character Veer hasn't mustered the courage to speak openly to his family because he fears that they won't accept it. With friendship and love at its core, 'Hum Bhi Akele Tum Bhi Akele' is a movie that will feel like a warm hug and hopefully inspire people to have more open conversations." The film has travelled to several international film festivals earlier and bagged awards.

Zareen added: "I was immediately drawn to the depth and emotionality of Mansi (her character) since I heard the narration and post-reading the screenplay. Its unique storyline hooked me. Just like Veer and Mansi's lives change after their road trip, 'Hum Bhi Akele Tum Bhi Akele' has been a life-changing experience for me and I do hope the film is able to relay the message that love is love." The film releases on the OTT platform Disney+ Hotstar VIP and Disney+ Hotstar Premium on May 9.
New Delhi/Islamabad, May 3 : In 2019, Pakistan claimed positive global attention when it opened the Sikh gurdwara at Kartarpur to pilgrims from India. But the reality is that the Sikh community in Pakistan faces persistent discrimination. Pakistani Sikhs, who mainly live in the country's restive northwest, are a community that lives in fear.

The 500-year-old religion was founded in Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Sikh guru, Guru Nanak Dev, and is now part of Pakistan.

At the time of the Partition of India in 1947, more than 2 million Sikhs lived in Pakistan and significant populations of Sikhs inhabited the largest cities in the Punjab such as Lahore, Rawalpindi and Faisalabad. Most Sikhs left Pakistan for India after both countries gained independence from Britain.

While Pakistan's National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) claims that there are only 6,146 Sikhs registered in Pakistan, according to a census conducted by NGO Sikh Resource and Study Centre (SRSC), about 50,000 Sikhs still live in Pakistan.

Sikhs were not included in the 2017 population census and there is no hard data on their numbers. Most are settled in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, followed by Sindh and Punjab. Other sources, including the US Department of State, claim the Sikh population in Pakistan to be at 20,000.

Despite demands by the community over not being counted as a separate identity, subsequent court orders to do so, and the government's assurances, the Bureau of Statistics has not released the number of the Sikhs in Pakistan.

So, there's no real figure of its population in Pakistan. But rights campaigners say its size has drastically come down within the past two decades -- from around 50,000 in 2002 to 8,000 now, they say. As their population decreased, the Sikh community's rights were diminished. Because of their distinct identity the community faces enormous challenges. Today, the majority of Sikhs there live in KP and Punjab province of Pakistan.

In Pakistan, the Sikhs are instantly recognisable by the distinctive untrimmed beards and high turbans that distinguish them from their Muslim counterparts. Apart from the violence, there are instances wherein Sikh men have been persecuted for wearing the turban and kada.

In 2011, two students were pressurised by the management of Nasira Public School, Karachi to remove their turban and kadas for uncited reasons. In another case that also came to the notice of the council, a Sikh man was fired by a company because he observed the Sikh life-style; wearing the kada on a wrist, a turban to cover his uncut long hair, and keeping a dagger, the kirpan on him at all times.

This has resulted in the falling literacy rates among the Sikh youth. According to a number of young Sikh men, very few have hopes of getting admission in universities. Even if they somehow manage to complete their education, with only a five per cent job quota for all minority groups living in Pakistan, there is little hope of a secure job.

Regular discrimination has led to an economic crippling of the community and to an extent a fear among Sikhs to even wear their identity as they once used to, whether it's the dastar, kada or kirpan. Young Sikhs are struggling under tough circumstances, simply because of their religious identity. Added to this the illegal occupation or forced shutting down of gurdwaras as further proof of systematic discrimination of the Sikh community in Pakistan.

Their peace was further broken with a spate of killings targeting Sikh traders. In Peshawar, the capital of the north-western Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, dozens of Sikh men have been ruthlessly killed by Pakistan's religious extremist groups, leaving community members unsure of their future in the country. Militants have routinely targeted and killed hundreds of other religious minorities across the country.

In 2016, in a high-profile case, Sikh legislator Soran Singh, from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party, was shot dead near Peshawar. Though the Taliban claimed responsibility for the assassination, police arrested a political rival, a minority Hindu politician called Buldev Kumar.

As the police are afraid to take on the extremists, they try to cover up the killings as disputes within minorities or business rivalries.

Haroon Khalid, an anthropologist who has written a number of books on Pakistan's minorities, including "Walking with Nanak" about the founder of Sikhism, said he had no doubt militant groups were behind the killings.

The Taliban also imposes the jizya, a tax levied on non-Muslims, in several parts of the tribal areas. In 2009, the Taliban destroyed the houses of 11 Sikh families in Orkazi Agency for refusing to pay jizya. In 2010, Jaspal Singh, a young man from Khyber Agency, was beheaded after his family couldn't pay up. In January 2020, Rowinder Singh, a 25-year-old Sikh man who had come to Peshawar from Shangla district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to shop for his wedding, was shot dead by unknown gunmen in Peshawar.

Around the same time, a mob of radical elements mob surrounded the Nankana Sahib gurdwara and threatened to destroy it, with several Sikh devotees stranded inside. In a video, protesters were seen raising slogans and saying that they were against the presence of the gurdwara there. The agitators can be heard saying that they will soon change the name of the gurdwara from Nankana Sahib to Ghulam-e-Mustafa.

On the first anniversary of the Kartarpur Gurdwara's opening, the government decided to take the management control of the shrine from the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee. The Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) has reportedly transferred various management functions of the Kartarpur Gurdwara to a Project Management Unit composed of all Muslim bureaucrats of the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB).

In December 2020 the statue of Sikh leader Maharaja Ranjit Singh, located in the Lahore Fort was vandalised. Maharaja Ranjit Singh was the ruler of the Sikh empire spread across many parts of Pakistan, with Punjab being the main territory. But Sikh history had never been taught in Pakistan's schools, and there have been attempts previously to destroy the statue.

So, while in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the minority group seems to be in the cross-hairs of extremism, in Punjab, it is the larger institutional discrimination that the community is facing. More than 60 per cent of Peshawar's 30,000 Sikhs had left for other parts of Pakistan or migrated to neighbouring India in the last few years.

Recently, Harmeet Singh, a Sikh news anchor of Pakistan, began to receive intimidating calls. Distressed over the threatening calls and police inaction, he is contemplating leaving."I will be left with no other option but to leave Pakistan," he said. In January 2020, Harmeet's younger brother Parwinder was shot dead in Peshawar.

But reports of forced conversions and dwindling Sikh population in Pakistan have alarmed the Sikh community within and outside the country. Hundreds of Sikh families have sought refuge in Canada and Europe in the recent years.

In yet another case of religious persecution in Pakistan, Radesh Singh Tony, a prominent member of the local Sikh community and the president of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa's Pakistan Minorities Alliance was forced to leave the country after "receiving threats". He had contested the 2018 general elections in Pakistan from Peshawar as an independent candidate, but was facing torture by some unidentified people. "I am very sad to say that I have left Pakistan to protect the lives of my family and children," the Sikh leader was quoted as saying by BBC.

Away from the glare and fanfare of the Kartarpur corridor, is the unheard reality of the Sikh community's constant battle with the Pakistan government for ownership of hundreds of gurdwaras. Under an agreement signed between Pakistan and India after the Partition, religious lands and temples cannot be sold. And yet, many lands allotted for Sikh temples and crematoriums have been disposed off by the Evacuee Trust Property Board, a body responsible for the maintenance of properties abandoned by people who left for India during Partition. And the discrimination doesn't end even after death. For Sikhs living in Peshawar the nearest cremation ground is more than a hundred kilometres away, in Attock.

Though the Imran Khan government has time and again claimed that there is no religious persecution in Pakistan, such incidents present a contrasting picture to the stance they portray. Fearing religious persecution and threat to life, Sikhs in Pakistan, choose to immigrate to India or some other country. In December 2019, a UN panel in its 47-page report titled "Pakistan-Religious freedom under attack", said that religious freedom of minorities in Pakistan is under threat.

The forced conversion of young Sikh women is a real threat for the community. Professor Kalyan Singh, a minority rights activist and a teacher at Lahore's GC College University says: "This is a fact the Sikh population in Pakistan has been consistently declining. One of the reasons behind this decline is, of course, forced conversion." Harinder Pal Singh, a senior executive member of the Badal-controlled Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee, said: "It has brought the duality of Imran Khan to the fore. On the one hand, he's making tall claims about Sikh initiatives, on the other hand, Sikh women in his country are being subject to this kind of treatment. His claims are under suspicion now." Pakistan's track record on human rights has been less than enviable in general, and it continues to get disturbingly poor - particularly in the case of religious minorities. And in this the Pakistani Sikh community's persecution is especially overlooked. The day is not far when Sikhs in Pakistan will be an extinct minority group, figuring only in textbooks, that too only if permitted.
Kolkata, May 3 : China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) is for the first time forming exclusive military formations manned by ethnic Tibetans.

India's external and military intelligence officials told IANS that senior PLA officials are touring specific areas of Tibet to raise the Tibetan-only force.

But they said that most of the recruits are mixed Tibetans -- mostly children of Tibetan mothers and Han Chinese fathers or otherwise.

Most of them are children of ex-PLA Han Chinese soldiers who got married to Tibetans, intelligence officials said.

PLA officers based in Lhasa have been to Ngari Prefecture in the far west of Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) and then to the border county of Zanda or Tsamda County to recruit for the Special Tibetan Army Unit.

The recruitment rallies began in February and are still continuing.

"It is a fairly long process because the security vetting process after the initial selection on the basis of a tough physical and IQ test is very extensive," said an intelligence official monitoring the process.

He said the Chinese authorities are keen to ensure that no anti-Beijing Tibetan sneaks into the force.

"So not only are Tibetan localities with a history of protest against Beijing's rule scrupulously avoided, but past records of individual recruits even in the most secure places are screened extensively," the official said, but on condition of anonymity for obvious reasons.

The PLA also carried out a phased recruitment drive in Lhasa to induct many Tibetans.

The plan is to raise a four battalion force initially for special operations on the lines of India's secretive Tibetan force, the Special Frontier Force or SFF.

The SFF was raised in 1960s by Major General Sujan Singh Uban, a legendary expert in irregular warfare, for special operations inside Tibet in the event of a conflict with China.

During last year's Ladakh standoff, the SFF commandoes unleashed take-and-hold operations on some unoccupied heights around Pangong Tso which finally forced the Chinese to settle on a mutually agreed pullback.

The SFF's success and the ease with which these Tibetans negotiated the icy heights on the Himalayas convinced PLA commanders they would do better than Han Chinese troops.

"These new recruitment drives are happening because units with Han Chinese troops are suffering serious health problems such as severe mountain sickness and high altitude pulmonary edema," said an Indian medical service expert in high altitude sickness.

According to PLA Daily, China's military has framed guidelines to help troops serving in Tibet save themselves from altitude sickness.

In the 2 million plus PLA, only 3,000 to 4,000 Tibetans serve at the moment.

"So this recruitment is significant," said Lt Gen J.R. Mukherjee, former Chief of Staff in India's Eastern Army.

He told IANS the Chinese have been looking to recruit both Tibetans and Nepali Gurkhas.

"They have failed to get Gurkhas because they are tied to the Indian army for historical and emotional reasons, so they have to find Tibetans because an average Chinese soldier cannot match our boys in the high Himalayas physically," Mukherjee said.
Mumbai, May 3 : Maharashtra saw Covid-19 deaths and infections cool down with a sharp drop in both new infections and fatalities on Monday, although the Mumbai Metropolitan Region's (MMR) deaths rose to 195, health officials said here.

Against 669 deaths on Sunday, the state toll dropped by 102 to 567, taking the total deaths to 70,861.

The number of new infections came below the 50,000 mark after a week, going down from 56,647 on Sunday to 48,621 on Monday, and the state tally rose to 47,71,022.

The Mumbai infections shot below 3,000 level, notching a drop from 3,629 to 2,624, while the city tally shot up to 658,621 till date. Daily deaths came down marginally, from 79 on Sunday to 78, and the total fatalities in the country's commercial capital stood at 13,372 now.

For the second day, the state death rate remained stable at 1.49 per cent, while the number of active cases decreased to 656,870.

On the brighter side, 59,500 fully cured patients returned home - higher than the number of fresh infections - taking the total up to 40,41,158 now, but the recovery rate fell from 84.31 per cent on Sunday to 84.07 per cent now.

The Mumbai Circle - comprising Mumbai, Thane, Palghar and Raigad districts - recorded a massive drop in new cases from 9,700 to 6,680 now. The tally has shot up to 13,97,840, and with 195 more deaths, the toll is 23,817 now.

Of the new fatalities, Thane led with 83 deaths, while there were 78 in Mumbai, 48 in Ahmednagar, 47 in Satara, 31 in Kolhapur, 30 in Raigad, 29 in Solapur, 26 each in Nashik and Aurangabad, 20 in Sangli, 17 in Washim, 16 in Jalgaon, 13 each in Osmanabad and Nagpur, 11 each in Sindudurg and Latur, 10 each in Pune, Beed, and Nanded, nine in Chandrapur, seven each in Palghar, Amravati, and Yavatmal, four in Palghar, two in Akola, and one each in Hingoli and Wardha.

Six districts recorded zero fatalities.

Meanwhile, the number of people sent to home isolation decreased to 39,08,491 now, while those shunted to institutional quarantine went up to 28,593.

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Srinagar, May 3 : The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) on Monday wrote to External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar requesting him to facilitate the travel of Kashmiri students studying in Bangladesh for their exams.

In its letter, the JKSA said that exams in universities and medical colleges in Bangladesh will commence from May 31, after being postponed on April 3 and students informed that the new dates will be announced two weeks after Eid.

It said due to the second Covid wave, hundreds of students had returned to India and now all of a sudden, new dates for the exams have been announced.

The letter further reads that the Bangladesh government has suspended air travel with India, students must be ensured a flight back to the country as the future of students was at stake.

"Keeping in view the above facts, we request your good self to resolve the issue on humanitarian grounds and facilitate our travel to Bangladesh. We request you to direct the concerned officials to act swiftly and provide necessary assistance to Kashmiri students so that we are able to attend examination on time," the letter read.

Over 100 Kashmiri students, enrolled in different medical colleges of Bangladesh, are stuck due to the pandemic.
New Delhi, May 3 : Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, who is the Asian Development Bank's (ADB) Governor for India, on Monday participated in the Governors' Seminar on "Cooperation for a Resilient Future", held as part of ADB's annual meeting 2021.

Other participants included Japan, Georgia, China, the Philippines and Netherlands. The virtual seminar was attended by delegates from 68 member nations of the ADB.

Speaking during the meeting, Sitharaman expressed her appreciation and gratitude for India's frontline workers determinedly fighting the Covid-19 pandemic. Sharing her views on the feasibility for a green and resilient recovery from the crisis borne by the current pandemic and the role of India in this regard, the Finance Minister mentioned that India has been at the forefront of various initiatives aiming at the same through setting up of the SAARC Covid-19 emergency fund, and leading by example in global initiatives of Access to Covid-19 Tools Accelerator (ACT-A) and COVAX.

India's leadership in the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and commitment to Paris Agreement goals has become an example of how positive global climate action can be advanced through partnership, she added.

Sitharaman mentioned that overall, enhanced regional and global cooperation is the key to become successful in the common pursuit of a resilient recovery. Information on all tools for fighting Covid-19 -- diagnostic, therapeutic, vaccines or technology -- should be shared internationally, she stressed.

She also emphasised on the need to enable India's access to critical raw materials essential for ramping up India's vaccine manufacturing capacity.

The Finance Minister also spoke on the need for private sector and civil society for partnering with the government to achieve resilient growth. She mentioned how Indian vaccine developers have cooperated and provided vaccines to the government at reasonable prices. Private companies are also contributing under their corporate social responsibility obligations. The Indian government's policies aimed at reviving and supporting MSMEs will also go a long way in supporting resilient growth, she said.

She also stated that cooperation for resilient and sustainable growth needs the involvement of multilateral institutions for creation of digital assets as well as disaster resilient assets while keeping human development a priority. She assured that India is committed to and stands ready to strengthen all efforts aimed at enhancing regional as well as global cooperation.

Sitharaman appreciated the ADB for providing timely financial support for Covid and non-Covid projects. She said that there should be a greater focus on health resilience in the Asia-Pacific and the ADB should come out with comprehensive solutions to address these.

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Guwahati, May 3 : Jailed anti-CAA activist and prominent peasant leader Akhil Gogoi has become the first lawmaker in Assam to win an election from jail after his octogenarian mother and prominent rights leaders of the country campaigned for him.

Without hitting the poll campaign, 46-year-old Gogoi clinched the Sibsagar constituency, defeating his nearest BJP opponent Surabhi Rajkonwari by a decisive margin of 11,875 votes.

Gogoi secured 57,219 votes (46.06 per cent) while Rajkonwari bagged 45,344 votes (36.5 per cent) and Congress nominee Subhramitra Gogoi managed 19,329 votes (15.56 per cent).

The founder president of the newly floated Raijor Dal (RD), Gogoi was arrested in December 2019 on sedition charges after he spearheaded the massive protests against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) in Assam.

The weeks long violent agitations against the CAA had rocked Assam in which five people were killed in police firing.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) took up Gogoi's case for his alleged involvement in the violent anti-CAA demonstrations across the state.

Besides the Raijor Dal, the Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP) was also formed as a consequence of the anti-CAA agitations.

Both the parties in alliance had fielded over 100 candidates across Assam, but only Gogoi has emerged victorious.

An inmate of the Central Jail in Guwahati, Gogoi is currently undergoing treatment at the Gauhati Medical College and Hospital.

Gogoi's 84-year-old mother Priyoda Gogoi and son Nasiketa had spearheaded his election campaign before the first phase of elections in eastern Assam on March 27.

Rights activist Medha Patkar, Magsaysay award winner Sandeep Pandey, many students of Delhi's Jawaharlal Nehru University and intellectuals and activists from different parts of the country and Assam had come to Sibsagar campaign for Gogoi.

Hundreds of volunteers and members of the Raijor Dal took Priyoda Gogoi to the doorsteps of the voters and heavily campaigned against the new citizenship act, which was approved in the Parliament in 2019, granting automatic citizenship for non-Muslims from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan, who came to India before December 31, 2014.

Gogoi, who is also an RTI activist, wrote several open letters from the prison in a bid to reach out to the voters, highlighting the numerous problems of Assam which need to be solved with sincere efforts.

"Cross section of people besides women and youth were moved when the ailing mother of Gogoi campaigned for his jailed son along the narrow lanes of Sibsagar," Raijor Dal leader Bijay Sarma told IANS.

Despite the entire election machinery of the BJP and the Congress, including the top leaders from these two outfits, the jailed activist has managed to win the hearts of the electorate.

A graduate from Guwahati Cotton College, Gogoi had earlier served as the general secretary of its students' union in 1995-96.

Over the years, the anti-corruption crusader, who also headed the Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti (KMSS), spearheaded many agitations on numerous causes.

Gogoi had fought for land rights of indigenous Assamese people and led a state-wide movement against the construction of big dams in northeastern Assam harming the ecological aspects.

Dozens of cases have been slapped on him by successive state governments in Assam.

"As Akhil Gogoi always highlighted and campaigned for the basic issues and problems of the indigenous people, common voters and citizens considered him as their genuine representative," Sukanya Talukdar, a college student, told IANS.

(Sujit Chakraborty can be contacted at sujit.c@ians.in)
New Delhi, May 3 : Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia on Monday requested Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to waive off GST on oxygen concentrators.

Welcoming reduction of IGST to 12 per cent on imports of oxygen concentrators through e-commerce platforms, Sisodia, in a letter to Sitharaman, said: "It would be appropriate if the government of India and GST Council consider exempting GST on Oxygen concentrators for the period of six months." Sisodia had also requested the Defence Ministry to help make arrangements for supply of medical oxygen for the Covid health facility to be set up.

Considering the enormous number of cases, he said that the additional health infrastructure, being set up by the Delhi government, is likely to be filled up as soon as it is ready and "we need at least 10,000 oxygenated non-ICU beds and 1,000 ICU beds at the earliest to overcome this crisis".

Delhi at present has 16,272 non-ICU oxygen beds and 4,866 ICU beds, and the Delhi government is creating an additional 15,000 oxygenated non-ICU beds and 1,200 ICU beds which are likely to be operationalised over the next 10 days, he said.

In the letter to Rajnath Singh, Sisodia further sought the armed forces help in Delhi getting its oxygen supply. "It would be an extraordinary help from our Armed Forces if the Ministry of Defence can provide cryogenic tankers for transport of Liquid Medical Oxygen," he had said.
Patna, May 3 : Citing the rising Covid spread in Bihar, the Patna High Court on Monday made some strong remarks about the functioning of the state's Nitish Kumar government.

"It has been emerging that the state government is heading toward total failure in the context of uncontrollable surge of corona infection in Bihar," a bench of Justice Chakradhari Sharan Singh and Justice Mohit Kumar Shah, which is monitoring the situation on a daily basis, said.

The state government should inform the court about whether a complete lockdown will be imposed in Bihar or not, it said, directing the government to submit a report by Tuesday.

"The state government has completely failed on tackling the pandemic. Why is the state government not taking a decision to lock down. The state government should avoid forcing us to pass an order pertaining to imposing a lockdown in Bihar," the bench told the Advocate General.

The high court has also asked the state government to form a war room and deploy five specialists to monitor the situation in Bihar.

Following the tough remarks on the state government, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Monday visited some places in Patna to assess the situation on ground.

The inspection tour of the Chief Minister has big implications. When he visited some places in Patna a week ago, he imposed evening curfew in the state from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. Sources have said that he might now take a decision on lockdown.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Hyderabad, May 3 : A day after retaining the Nagarjuna Sagar Assembly constituency in the bypolls, Telangana's ruling party Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) swept the municipal elections, capturing all seven urban local bodies that went to polls last week.

The TRS won a clear majority in the Greater Warangal and Khammam Municipal Corporations and five municipalities -- Siddipet, Kothur, Nakrekal, Atchampet and Jadcherla -- where elections were held on April 30 In the 66-member Warangal Municipal Corporation, the TRS won 48 seats. The BJP finished second with 10 seats while Congress candidates were elected in four wards. Independents and others were elected in four places.

The TRS also retained power in 60-member Khammam Municipal Corporation. The TRS-CPI alliance bagged 46 seats while Congress-CPI-M alliance won 10 seats. The BJP could win a single seat while others secured two seats.

In Siddipet, the TRS has bagged 32 seats while results have been declared for 34 out of 43 wards. The BJP and others won a seat each.

In the 27-member Jadcherla municipality, the TRS won 23 seats. The BJP and the Congress bagged two seats each.

In the 20-member Atchampet body, the TRS won 13 seats. The Congress finished second with six seats while the BJP secured a single seat.

In Nakrekal, the TRS won 11 of the 20 seats. The Congress won two seats while independents were elected from seven wards.

In the 12-member Kothur municipality, the TRS won seven seats while the Congress bagged five seats.

About 70 per cent voters cast their votes in the seven urban local bodies on Friday.

Polling was also held for the by-elections to four wards in four municipalities and one ward in Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC).

A total of 11,59,112 voters including 5,84,963 women were eligible to cast their votes in these elections.

As many as 1,307 candidates including 480 independents were in the fray in two corporations and five municipalities. Fourteen candidates tested their political fortunes in four wards while five candidates were in fray in Lingojiguda ward in GHMC.

The Congress dealt a blow to the BJP by winning the Lingojiguda ward. The seat fell vacant after BJP corporator A. Ramesh Goud died before taking oath. The TRS had not fielded its candidate on the request of the BJP which had fielded Goud's son.

With this victory, the Congress' strength in the 150-member GHMC rose to three.
New Delhi, May 3 : The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Monday said that it has registered a case to probe the alleged framing of then ISRO scientist Nambi Narayanan by unknown Kerala Police officials.

A CBI spokesperson here said said the agency has registered the case on the Supreme Court's directive in its April 15 order.

The official said that a case had been registered by Kerala Police on October 20, 1994 against a Maldivian national under the Foreigners Act on the allegations of overstaying in India after expiry of visa.

He said that the police subsequently, filed another case, on November 13, 1994, against two Maldivian nationals, on the allegations that they, in collusion with some others, had taken part in the activities against the sovereignty and integrity of India and indulged in other activities which would harm the cordial relations of India with its neighbours.

Both the case were later entrusted to a SIT of Kerala Police, in which four more persons, including two scientists working at the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC) of ISRO, were arrested on the charges of espionage.

"Later on, the investigation of both these cases was transferred to the CBI. In the espionage case, the CBI submitted a final report before the Chief Judicial Magistrate, Ernakulam (Kerala) which was accepted by the court. While submitting the said report in the espionage case, the allegations pertaining to espionage were found to be false," he said.

The official said that one of the scientists took the matter for taking action against the erring officials to the Supreme Court by way of filing a civil writ petition.

He said that the Supreme Court, in its judgement dated September 14, 2018, awarded compensation of Rs 50 lakh to Narayanan on several counts and also ordered the constitution of a committee, for obtaining actual scenario including the arrest, false implication of said scientist etc and to find out ways for taking appropriate steps against the erring officials.

"Accordingly, a Committee under the Chairmanship of a retired judge of the Supreme Court, was constituted by the Ministry of Home Affairs. The Committee after conducting inquiry submitted its report before the Supreme Court and based on the said enquiry report, the Court ordered CBI to proceed in the matter in accordance with law, being a Court directed enquiry," he said.
Jaipur, May 3 : In partial relief for parents amid the ongoing pandemic, the Supreme Court on Monday asked private schools of Rajasthan to charge 15 per cent less annual fees from students in academic session 2020-21 and bar no one from attending actual or virtual classes, or withhold their results over non-payment.

The court had earlier this year stayed the Rajasthan High Court ruling which said that private schools should charge 70 per cent of the tuition fees from parents in wake of pandemic. The private schools had subsequently approached the Supreme Court soon after the decision and sought permission to collect the full fees.

A Supreme Court bench of Justice A.M. Khanwilkar and Justice Krishna Murari meanwhile upheld the High Court's judgment in rejecting the challenge to the validity of the Rajasthan Schools (Regulation of Fee) Act, 2016 and the Rules framed under the law governing fixation of school fees by the government-mandated procedures.

The Rajasthan government had said it was awaiting final orders from the Supreme Court and then shall decide how much fee parents should pay.

Education Minister Govind Singh Dotasara said: "We want that court's regard should be maintained and there should not be any injustice to parents as well." The Rajasthan High Court, on December 18, 2020, had announced the verdict saying the schools running online classes should collect 70 per cent fees.

On February 8, the apex court, in its interim order, said that parents will have to pay the complete fee for 2020-21, but, allowed them to pay fees in six instalments.
Mysuru, May 3 : Hours after coming under fire from Karnataka Education Minister S. Suresh Kumar, Mysuru Deputy Commissioner Rohini Sindhuri on Monday clarified through a statement that there was no delay from Mysuru in the supply of oxygen to neighbouring Chamarajnagar.

The developments took place after 24 Covid patients reportedly died due to interruption in oxygen supply at the Chamarajanagar Institute of Medical Sciences (CIMS) in Chamarajanagar district in the wee hours on Monday.

Venting his ire against the Mysuru district administration, Suresh Kumar had said earlier in the day that it cannot adopt the big brother attitude when it comes to supply of oxygen or other life-saving drugs to the other districts.

In a statement released through the district information department, Sinduri said said that till 12.30 am on Monday, 250 oxygen cylinders were sent to Chamarajanagar from Mysuru.

"Chamarajnagar receives its liquid oxygen supply through a Ballari-based plant and we are not sure if that consignment had reached them or not. But, as per their (Chamrajnagar) request, in total 250 oxygen cylinders were dispatched from Mysuru on humanitarian grounds without any delay," the statement read.

She added in the statement that there was no delay in supply of oxygen from Mysuru.

"It is free for 'anyone' to check as we have maintained a record that supports our claim that 210 cylinders were sent from Southern Gas, Mysuru, and 40 oxygen cylinders were sent from the Mysuru District Hospital," Sinduri said.

Her statement assumes significance after Suresh Kumar had slammed Mysuru for interfering with oxygen supplies to the neighbouring districts of Chamrajanagar, Mandya and Kodagu.
New Delhi, May 3: India appears to be headed for more stringent lockdowns to rein in the massive surge in deadly coronavirus infections as both medical experts and apex industry chambers are giving fresh feedbacks to the Centre.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi while urging the states to avoid blanket lockdowns that would cripple the economy and hit livelihoods has also maintained all along that the government would go by the advice of medical experts in formulating its policy to tackle the devastating pandemic.

AIIMS chief Dr Randeep Guleria has now stated that the country's health infrastructure is "stretched to the limit" and "aggressive lockdowns," like the one imposed in March last year are required in areas with positivity rates of over 10 per cent to contain the second COVID-19 wave.

Dr Guleria said the ferocity with which the virus was spreading is unprecedented, and night curfews and weekend lockdowns, such as those enforced by Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Haryana and other states, were proving to be ineffectual.

"We have to work aggressively to bring this number down. No healthcare system in the world can manage this kind of load. The issue of aggressive containment or lockdown holds the key," Dr Guleria said on television.

Similarly, the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) president Uday Kotak, has said authorities should curtail economic activity to snap the transmission chain of coronavirus infections.

"At this critical juncture when toll of lives is rising, CII urges the strongest national steps including curtailing economic activity to reduce suffering," Uday Kotak, who is also chief executive of Kotak Mahindra Bank, said in a tweet.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had imposed one of the most stringent lockdowns in the world during the first Covid-19 wave, but has increasingly left it to the states to act more locally this year amid concerns of large scale disruptions of livelihoods. He has already provided for free foodgrains to the poor and this would be stepped up in the days ahead with stricter lockdowns, a senior official said.

The Supreme Court of India on Sunday had also advised the central and state governments to consider a lockdown to break the chain of Covid-19 transmission.

"In light of the continuing surge of infections in the second wave of the pandemic, we direct the Central Government and State Governments to put on record the efforts taken to curb the spread of the virus and the measures that they plan on taking in the near future," the Supreme Court observed.

"At the same time, we would seriously urge the Central and State Governments to consider imposing a ban on mass gatherings and super spreader events. They may also consider imposing a lockdown to curb the virus in the second wave in the interest of public welfare," the apex court stated.

India reported a staggering 392,488 new cases of COVID-19 on Sunday with the number of deaths shooting up by a record 3,689.

This relentless surge in the coronavirus infections has come as a major setback for the global war against the pandemic as India had emerged as the pharmacy to the world, exporting vaccines and medical supplies to as many as 80 nations. The country is now running short of supplies itself due to the massive second wave.

(This content is being carried under an arrangement with indianarrative.com) --indianarrative/

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
New Delhi, May 3: India and the United Kingdom (UK) are set to adopt a 10-year strategic plan that would steer ties of the two countries in key areas of global concern including healthcare and climate action. They will also focus on the bolstering trade as well as defence and security ties, premised on strong and vibrant people-to-people exchanges.

The new strategic blueprint Roadmap 2030 will be flagged on Tuesday during a virtual summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his British counterpart, Boris Johnson.

India and Britain have a deep historical relationship, which is acquiring new meaning after London has decided to breakout of the European Union, and establish strong independent relationships with emerging economies such as India. Britain has also shown keen interest in bonding with the Indo-Pacific region following the rise of China and the rapid emergence of a multipolar world.

Analysts point out that with the centre of gravity of world economic power gravitating towards the Indo-Pacific, former European colonial powers including Britain, France and Germany are re-orienting their foreign polices towards this emerging region, shedding their erstwhile focus primarily in the direction of the Atlantic alliance. India is a major pivot Europe's rediscovery of Asia.

As expected, the two leaders will discuss Covid19 cooperation and the global efforts to fight the pandemic, a Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement ahead of Tuesday's summit. Already, the Pune based Serum Institute of India manufactures the AstraZeneca vaccine, branded as Cavitied in India, in partnership with Oxford university of Britain.

Separately, the British foreign office also announced on Sunday that that the UK will send 1,000 additional ventilators from its surplus stocks to support India's Covid-19 fightback.

"The terrible images we have seen in India in recent weeks are all the more powerful because of the close and enduring connection between the people of the UK and India," Johnson said.

"I am deeply moved by the surge of support the British people have provided to the people of India and am pleased the UK government has been able to play our part in providing life-saving assistance. The UK will always be there for India in its time of need." But the dialogue between the two leaders is expected to go well beyond collaboration in the politically sensitive health sector.

India fits into the UK's Integrated Review of Defence, Security, Development and Foreign Policy-- a post-Brexit vision document, inclined towards bonding with the Indo-Pacific region. Britain envisions the Indo-Pacific region as the world's geopolitical center.

Earlier, London had already announced that Johnson's summit with PM Modi would "unlock the opportunities in the region".

The UK is also applying for partnership with the 10-nation Association of South East Asian Nations economic union-an initiative that docks with New Delhi's ASEAN cantered Act East policy.

With China as the elephant in the room, Britain's Queen Elizabeth aircraft carrier will join its NATO allies, to show the British flag in the South China Sea-a major component of the Indo-Pacific region.

(This content is being carried under an arrangement with indianarrative.com) --indianarrative/

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
New Delhi, May 4 : Due to the second wave of Covid, the Union Ministry of Education requested to postpone all offline examinations scheduled in the month of May, 2021.

This decision will be applicable to all central higher educational institutions across the country. Apart from this, such higher educational institutions will also have to postpone offline examinations, which receive financial support from the central government.

In a letter addressed to all heads of centrally funded institutions, Higher Education Secretary Amit Khare has urged these institutes to postpone all offline examinations to be held in the month of May, 2021. Although online examinations may continue.

Higher Education Secretary Amit Khare has also said in his letter that this decision will be reviewed in the first week of June 2021.

Institutions have further been advised to ensure that if anyone in an institution is in need of assistance, it should be provided at the earliest so that it comes out of crisis soon.

All educational institutions must encourage eligible individuals to be vaccinated and ensure that Covid norms are followed properly.

At the same time, Delhi University has also postponed the online open book examination to be held in May. The examination was to be held from May 15. Senior officials of the university have taken this important decision to postpone the examinations with the caretaker vice-chancellor. According to the university administration, now these examinations will be held from June 1.
Guwahati, May 4 : The Congress on Monday claimed that two new local parties -- the Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP) and the Raijor Dal (RD) - dented its vote in the Assam Assembly elections.

General Secretary in-charge of Assam, Jitendra Singh said that AJP and RD factor also helped the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party to consolidate its position in eastern Assam, where polling was held in the first phase in 47 seats on March 27.

"The AJP and Raijor Dal need to do some soul searching on how they ended up helping the very forces that they were seeking to oppose," he told the media.

The RD and the AJP came up as a consequence of the anti-Citizenship (Amendment) Act agitations that started in Assam and few other northeastern states and West Bengal in November 2019.

The Congress leader said that in terms of seats, the tally of the Congress went up by three seats (from 26 in 2016 to 29 now this time). "We lost seven seats by a margin of less than 5,000 votes. AIUDF, BPF and the Left parties remain our valued allies and we would continue to fight for the welfare of the people," he added.

"We are given the role of a responsible and strong opposition with about 50 seats in the house of 126. We shall strive to do our duty in the best interest of the people of Assam. We will continue to voice the challenges being faced by the people of Assam and will always fight for their rights." Assam state Congress President Ripun Bora, Lok Sabha Members Pradyut Bordoloi and Gaurav Gogoi and other leaders of "Mahajot" sought to explain how the BJP "misled" the voters during the poll campaign.

Bora, who is a Rajya Sabha member, himself also lost the election in the Gohpur Assembly seat to the BJP's Utpal Borah by a margin of 29,294 votes, and submitted his resignation on Sunday night taking moral responsibility for the party's defeat.

The Congress and its ally All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) won 29 and 16, seats respectively improving upon their 2016 performance by three seats each. Of other partners of the "Mahajot", the Bodoland Peoples Front (BPF) got four seats and the Communist Party of India-Marxist won one seat.
Patna, May 4 : Former Bihar Chief Minister and president of the Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM), Jitan Ram Manjhi, on Monday demanded a judicial inquiry into the death of former Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) MP Mohammad Shahabuddin, who passed away at a Delhi hospital on Saturday.

Shahabuddin, 53, was serving a life sentence in a 2004 double murder case. He was shifted to the Tihar jail in 2018.

Sandeep Goyal, the Director General of Tihar jail, had said in a statement, "Information has been received from the DDU (Deen Dayal Upadhyay) Hospital about the death of Mohammad Shahabuddin, an inmate of Delhi prison." The official had said that Shahbuddin was suffering from Covid-19 and was admitted to the DDU Hospital on April 20.

Manjhi on Monday tweeted tagging Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to initiate a judicial inquiry into the death of Shahabuddin.

Manjhi's appeal came after the family members of Shahabuddin alleged conspiracy behind his death. They alleged that the RT-PCR report of Shahabuddin returned negative after his death. He could have been killed under a deep conspiracy, they alleged. They also threatened to go to the court.
The merger brings together two Toronto teams, bridging the worlds of creative and growth marketing.

Now Creative Group, celebrating its eighth anniversary this spring, has been acquired by Toronto agency King Street Media. The merger brings together two teams who have been collaborating for the past year, bridging the worlds of creative/branding and paid advertising/growth marketing.

The teams will now serve clients under one agency, King Street Media.

The company is also launching Now Impact Studio, a sub-brand under King Street Media serving impact-focused businesses and non-profit organizations. Now Impact Studio will be dedicated to helping organizations create and communicate their impact through authentic branding, quality content and inspiring storytelling. As part of the rollout, Nows Creative Groups website and social media presence will be rebranded to Now Impact Studio.

Daniel Francavilla, who founded Now Creative Group in 2013, is now a Partner at King Street Media serving as the lead Strategist.

After 8 years of building Now, this is an exciting opportunity to join forces and expand our offerings to better serve businesses and organizations with additional subject matter expertise, while at the same time embracing a niche thats at the core of our values: Nonprofit organizations and businesses focused on making a positive impact.

April Hossain, who has served as Now Creative Groups Managing Director for the last 2 years after starting at the company in 2016, is now the Director of Creative Services and Partner at King Street Media.

Our clients are already benefiting from closer collaboration and expanded in-house skill sets. The merger was a natural fit, and I am thrilled to bring our Creative, Design, Branding and Strategy expertise over to King Street Media. I look forward to providing value to our community that we have fostered through Now over the years.

Now Creative Group has earned a Business Excellence Award from the Brampton Board of Trade, a Social Good Design Award from RGD, and most recently contributed to a campaign for TELUS that received a silver Business Impact Award from the Canadian Marketing Association.

Both agencies are based in Toronto and have continued to operate fully remotely since the beginning of the pandemic.

King Street Media has officially become a member of the Upside Foundation of Canada, joining a community of Canadian entrepreneurs and innovators who have pledged equity to charity.

About King Street Media:

King Street Media is a Toronto-based marketing and creative agency focused on purpose-driven growth. The agency supports entrepreneurs, businesses and nonprofits by providing dedicated services ranging from digital advertising and social media marketing to brand strategy and content creation. The company includes Now Impact Studio, committed to helping organizations create and communicate their impact through authentic branding, quality content and inspiring storytelling.
Grant Helps Hubbard VFD Purchase New Equipment Hubbard Volunteer Fire Department recently received an equipment cost-share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to help purchase radios, Jaws-of-Life, fire hose and a computer.



Volunteer fire departments often receive training to learn current firefighter response strategies. Hubbard VFD has participated in various training schools to further its knowledge of firefighting and increase awareness of firefighter safety. Having the right equipment is another aspect of a successful response.



Communication on a fire scene is vital for the safety of firefighters and reinforces ground observations concerning the condition of the fire, said Department President/Treasurer Wil Geltmeier. We are glad to have the new radios to help us keep well informed of the situation while in response.



The City of Hubbard serves as a crossroads with state highways 31 and 171 running through it, giving travelers access to Interstate 35 and I-45.



The new Jaws-of-Life extrication tools that we received will not only benefit our community, but travelers as well, said Geltmeier. The new set of jaws have already been used in response to four vehicle accidents.



The extrication tools are battery operated and much lighter. Having the up-to-date tools that are faster and easier to implement is important, said Geltmeier. They are easier to set up and can save time in a situation when time is of the essence.



Hubbard Volunteer Fire Department has been serving its community since 1928 and currently has open enrollment for volunteers. An application can be picked up at the department, located at 116 North Magnolia Avenue in Hubbard, the second or fourth Monday of each month at 7 p.m.



Volunteer fire department support comes from fund raisers and community support.



Our community has always been supportive, said Geltmeier. We appreciate their backing, which helps to meet daily operational needs of the department.



Texas A&M Forest Service is committed to protecting lives and property through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program, a cost-share program funded by Texas State Legislature and administered by Texas A&M Forest Service.



This program provides funding to rural volunteer fire departments for the acquisition of firefighting vehicles, fire and rescue equipment, protective clothing, dry-hydrants, computer systems and firefighter training.



For more information on programs offered by Texas A&M Forest Service, visit http://texasfd.com.


Palm Beach County: additional cases and more deaths. The county now has confirmed cases and deaths, including non-residents.

Broward County: additional cases and more deaths. Broward has a known total of cases and deaths since the beginning of the pandemic. The death tally includes non-residents.

Miami-Dade County: additional cases and new deaths. The county now has confirmed cases and deaths, including non-residents.
We are delighted to continue and expand upon the important work of helping thousands of people with kidney disease receive the care they need and take an active role in their care, Sven T. Berg, MD, Quality Insights Chief Executive Officer said.

Quality Insights, a national leader in health care quality improvement services, has been awarded new contracts from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to continue improving care for kidney patients in three of its 18 End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) Networks across the country.

Over a five-year period beginning June 1, Quality Insights will build on its collaborations with local health care providers and communities to actively engage, empower and improve care for people with chronic kidney disease, a growing epidemic that affects more than 37 million adults and is the leading cause of death in the United States. Quality Insights work will support care provided to rural, vulnerable or disparate populations in the following locations:



Network 3, serving New Jersey, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands

Network 4, serving Delaware and Pennsylvania

Network 5, serving Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia and the District of Columbia

Specifically, each ESRD Network will focus on tasks that may include, but are not limited to:



Improving behavioral health outcomes, such as diagnosis of depression, for people with kidney disease

Improving patient safety and reducing harm, particularly by improving access to care in vulnerable populations and ensuring the safety and continuity of dialysis care in emergency situations

Promoting home modalities and kidney transplantation as appropriate treatments to support patient independence and improve outcomes

Reducing hospital admissions, readmissions and outpatient emergency visits

Improving the quality of care being provided to ESRD patients dialyzing in nursing homes

We are delighted to continue and expand upon the important work of helping thousands of people with kidney disease receive the care they need and take an active role in their care, Sven T. Berg, MD, Quality Insights Chief Executive Officer said.

For more information about ESRD Networks 3, 4 or 5 or to learn more about CMS End Stage Renal Disease program, please reference the following information:

ESRD Network 3 (New Jersey, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands)



Chris Brown, (609) 490-0310 ext. 2426

mailto:cbrown@qualityinsights.org

http://www.qirn3.org/

ESRD Network 4 (Delaware and Pennsylvania)



Chris Brown, (610) 265-2418 ext. 2826

mailto:cbrown@qualityinsights.org

http://www.qirn4.org/

ESRD Network 5 (Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia and the District of Columbia (DC))



Brandy Vinson, (804) 320-0004 ext. 2711

mailto:bvinson@qualityinsights.org

http://www.qirn5.org/

CMS End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) Program



About Quality Insights

Quality Insights is a mission-driven company focused on using data and community solutions to improve health and health care quality. We support and collaborate with government agencies, payers, providers, patients and families, and community organizations. Our services include quality improvement consulting; provider, stakeholder and patient engagement; secure data collection, validation, analytics and reporting; and effective, comprehensive and collaborative education and learning. Quality Insights employees and consultants support quality initiatives from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Veterans Health Administration (VHA), state governments, private payers and more. Learn about how Quality Insights is bringing people and information together to improve health at http://www.qualityinsights.org/
Acclaimed women-owned business AVIE! Medspa in Leesburg, VA, will celebrate 12-year anniversary with celebration on May 20! We cant believe its been 12 years since we opened. We consider ourselves privileged to be able to do what we do!

The team at acclaimed AVIE! Medspa and Laser Center is thrilled to be celebrating 12 years of aesthetic and wellness success as a women-owned business  and everyone is invited! Here are the event details, for those who would like to join them:

12th Anniversary Celebration!

 Where: Travinia Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar, 1605 Village Market Blvd., Leesburg, VA 20176

 When: 5 - 8 p.m., Thursday, May 20

 Call AVIE! at 703.737.0197 by May 17 to RSVP.

Guests will enjoy food, wine, raffles, giveaways, exclusive promotions and more.

As a small, women-owned business, AVIE! is both proud and humbled to be able to serve the Loudoun County community for 12 years and counting. They are committed to excellence in training, care and client experience, from consultation to results.

It brings us so much joy to be able to help our clients look and feel their best every day! says AVIE! Owner and Master Aesthetician Kim Marinetto, RN. We cant believe its been 12 years since we opened. We consider ourselves privileged to be able to do what we do!

AVIE! Medspa & Laser Center is committed to helping clients achieve their aesthetic and wellness goals through a wide range of leading, state-of-the-art treatments, including:



Botox

Dermal fillers

EMSCULPT NEO

EMTONE

CoolSculpting

Halo fractional laser resurfacing

Ultherapy

Vivace Microneedle RF

Kybella

BBL photofacial

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and platelet-rich fibrin matrix (PRFM) for skin rejuvenation and hair restoration

Blepharoplasty

HydraFacial MD

To learn more, schedule a consultation or RSVP to their party by May 17, please call 703.737.0197 or visit http://www.aviemedspa.com today.

About AVIE! Medspa & Laser Center

AVIE! Medspa & Laser Center has been offering the latest in cosmetic medical spa treatments in a relaxing spa environment in Leesburg, Virginia since opening in March 2009. Owner and Master Aesthetician Kim Marinetto, RN, in conjunction with Medical Director Khalique Zahir, MD, and their highly skilled team of nurses, nurse practitioners and master aestheticians, provide specialized cosmetic and aesthetic programs so each of their clients needs are addressed on an individual basis with personalized follow-ups.

Aesthetic treatments at AVIE! have minimal to no downtime. Services include EMSCULPT, EMSCULPT NEO, EMTONE, Halo, microneedling, Vivace Microneedle RF, CoolSculpting, Ultherapy, Botox, Juvederm Ultra XC, Juvederm Ultra Plus XC, Vollure XC, Voluma XC, Volbella XC, chemical peels, MicroLaserPeel, BBL photofacials, HydraFacial MD, dermaplaning, skin tightening, ProFractional Skin Resurfacing, laser hair removal, PRP, PRFM, vitamin B12 shots and blepharoplasty by Dr. Zahir. AVIE! has performed over 315,000 Botox and dermal filler treatments since 2009. AVIE! also carries medical-grade skin care and makeup. Consultations are complimentary and financing is available. For more information, please call 703-870-3844 or visit http://www.aviemedspa.com.

About Kim Marinetto, RN & Master Aesthetician

Kim Marinetto has over 33 years of experience as a registered nurse. In the past 15 years, she has focused her practice on cosmetic medicine, adding to her credentials a Medical Aesthetician Certification in 2006, along with additional certifications in Botox Cosmetic, facial fillers, sclerotherapy and various advanced laser systems. Kim is a Master Aesthetician in the state of Virginia. Additionally, Kim is an Aesthetic Provider Council member for Alastin Skincare USA. She has done extensive training on laser technology and her coursework is recognized by the AMA.

About Khalique Zahir, MD

Dr. Khalique Zahir, medical director of AVIE! Medspa and Laser Center, graduated from West Virginia School of Medicine and is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and The American Board of Surgery. Dr. Zahir practiced general surgery from 19921999 at West Virginia University and St. Marys Hospital, then cosmetic, plastic and reconstructive surgery at Vanderbilt University Medical Center from 19992001. Dr. Zahir also holds a Virginia Medical License and a Maryland Medical License. He has written over 20 articles published in national health journals and is an assistant clinical professor of surgery at VCU School of Medicine.
Africa is one of the hottest regions on the globe with an insurance industry valued at $68 billion. In terms of GWP, it is the eighth largest in the world according to McKinsey. However this value is not equally distributed across the continent. Markets are inconsistent in terms of size, mix, growth, and degree of consolidation, with 91 percent of premiums concentrated in just ten countries.

In order to help bring the benefits of increased insurance coverage to more areas within Africa, Africa InsurTech Rising (AIR) with support from InsureTech Connect (ITC), is launching an international innovation program called The Bridge. Launching May 3, its been built to identify and showcase innovative insurance technology products and solutions by startups/founders for the purpose of stimulating new and existing players that will shape, reshape and unlock new value chains and markets in the insurance industry specifically in Africa. This program will provide B2B opportunities, mentorship, visibility, capital access and sparring opportunities to startup/founders.

"Supporting AIR for this unique initiative aligns with our broader mission, says Jay Weintraub, CEO & Co-Founder of Insuretech Connect. ITC recognizes the important role that innovation plays in developing nations, with Africa being a land of amazing opportunities for leapfrogging forward in the insurance space. This program will shine a light on the most cutting edge technologies emerging today."

"We're excited to be hosting The Bridge summer program to highlight the unique startups bringing much needed innovation to the insurance industry throughout Africa, says Dr. Tunde Salako, CEO & Co-Founder of Africa Insurtech Rising. A partnership with a global brand like ITC will have a tremendous impact on raising awareness of the opportunities arising in these up-and-coming markets."

Submissions can be made here: https://africainsurtechrising.com.ng/summeriscoming/ and are due by May 31 with selected companies to participate in a virtual pitch day mid-June. The Bridge winners are set to be announced in July. All finalists will receive complimentary ticket to ITC Vegas 2021 and the winner will receive a complimentary kiosk and a speaking slot on the ITC Vegas 2021 Demo Stage.

About Africa InsurTech Rising

Africa InsurTech rising is Africas premier and best platform, aggregating all stakeholders in the InsurTech ecosystem with a focus on the African insurance space, passionately reverse engineering insurance inclusion on the continent via technology.

For more information, please visit https://africainsurtechrising.com.ng

About InsureTech Connect

InsureTech Connect (ITC) is the worlds largest insurtech event, offering unparalleled access to the largest and most comprehensive gathering of tech entrepreneurs, investors, and insurance industry executives from across the globe. Founded by Jay Weintraub and Caribou Honig, ITC has been attended by over 25,000 people from 65+ countries. Insuretech Connect 2021 will be held October 4-6, 2021 at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas.

For more information, please visit http://www.insuretechconnect.com.
Auntie's Little Girl: a darling tale of the love between family members. Auntie's Little Girl is the creation of published author, Ashlyn Kossan, a native of North Dakota and devoted aunt.

Kossan writes, Aunties Little Girl is a poem that I wrote for my niece, Brynley, in August 2019. I dont get to see her very often because my brother lives in Fargo and I live in Minot, North Dakota. This poem is my way of letting her know that she is always on my mind. My hope for this book is that the words will stand true for all the aunts out there. I want this book to be a reminder for Brynley. No matter how old she is or how dark the world gets when shes older, she will always be Aunties Little Girl.

Published by Christian Faith Publishing, Ashlyn Kossans new book is a tale of love and family that proves distance means nothing to those who truly care.

Born with cerebral palsy, Kossan hopes to inspire others with her published works that depict differently abled individuals living happy, fulfilling lives. Ms. Kossan looks to the future with hope and love for her nieces success.

View a synopsis of Auntie's Little Girl on YouTube.

Consumers can purchase Auntie's Little Girl at traditional brick & mortar bookstores, or online at Amazon.com, Apple iTunes store, or Barnes and Noble.

For additional information or inquiries about Auntie's Little Girl, contact the Christian Faith Publishing media department at 866-554-0919.
I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to broaden their knowledge about conditions socialism could bring to America.

Author Jane Benson has published a cautionary tale that twines her experience defecting from Czechoslovakia to the U.S. in 1988 with reflections on how the last three decades have seen America drift closer to the communistic ideals that she sacrificed everything to leave behind.

In Stalked by Socialism: An Escapee From Communism Shows How We're Sliding Into Socialism, Benson describes her old life in Czechoslovakia, where she was born Jana Kandlova, and the history behind its swift descent into communism following World War II. She paints a picture of historic buildings destroyed and replaced with chemical plants, once beautiful mountains exploited and stripped of their natural resources, and communities tethered to the governments whims without rights to speech or self-expression.

Benson could smell the freedom when she landed at JFK in New York at the young age of 19. But 30 years later, she has become alarmed and anxious as she watches freedom and liberty in the U.S. fade away. In this fascinating story, Benson sounds a serious warning to all who believe in "free lunch."

The author did an excellent job in tying together the conditions under which she was raised and to what is occurring in America today, a reader wrote in a five-star review of the book on Amazon. She not only gives personal accounts of conditions under socialism but backs up accounts with facts. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to broaden their knowledge about conditions socialism could bring to America.

Stalked by Socialism:

An Escapee From Communism Shows How We're Sliding Into Socialism

By Jana Kandlova aka Jane Benson

ISBN: 978-1-6632-0238-3 (sc); ISBN: 978-1-6632-0434-9 (hc); ISBN: 978-1-6632-0239-0 (e)

Available through iUniverse, Barnes & Noble, and Amazon

About the author

Jane Benson was born Jana Kandlova on Dec. 22, 1968, in Usti nad Labem, a major industrial center located in northwest Czechoslovakia, about a 30-minute drive from the German border. Benson, who has now lived in the U.S. for more than 30 years, wrote Stalked by Socialism to generate awareness around the U.S.s steady shift away from freedom. She hopes readers will use her story to educate and inspire others and energize the light of liberty that makes America a beacon of hope to the world. Benson currently resides in Glastonbury, Conn., with her husband Jim Vicevich. To learn more, please listen to Bensons interview on HotAir.

General Inquiries, Review Copies & Interview Requests:

LAVIDGE  Phoenix

480-648-7557

dgrobmeier@lavidge.com
"We are confident that CobbleStone's integration with Google Workspace will add greater flexibility to our clients' contract management, procurement, sourcing, and vendor management software workflow processes  increasing efficiency and efficacy."-Mark Nastasi, EVP & Founder of CobbleStone Software

CobbleStone Software - a contract management software Leader, according to Forrester - is pleased to announce its integration with Google Drive for Google Docs collaboration.

CobbleStone Software's integration with Google Workspace (formerly G Suite), which includes Google Docs and supports a concurrent document management and document editing experience, adds to its preexisting robust integration options. CobbleStone's integration with Google Drive allows for concurrent and cloud-based document editing - yielding a streamlined workflow with refreshingly low friction, especially when working with multiple stakeholders across the company. CobbleStone Software's integration with Google Workspace further highlights its dedication to offering a highly configurable source-to-contract management software solution that prioritizes an intuitive user experience.

"We, at CobbleStone Software, are excited to integrate Google Workspace with our leading-edge source-to-contract management software system," says Mark Nastasi, Executive Vice President & Founder of CobbleStone Software.

"We strongly believe this integration will add greater flexibility to our clients' contract management, procurement, sourcing, and vendor management software workflow processes - increasing the preexisting high configurability of CobbleStone for optimal organizational workflow efficiency and efficacy."

To learn more about how CobbleStone's Contract Insight integrates with Google Docs, read this article.

About CobbleStone Software:

CobbleStone Software has been a visionary in enterprise contract management, eProcurement, vendor management, and eSourcing software solutions for over 20 years. CobbleStone Software's contract management software platform offers full contract lifecycle management with configurable contract workflow management, email notifications, calendar alerts, contract writing with templates and dynamic clauses, contract negotiations, robust security options, revenue/cost management, vendor tracking, vendor/client scoring and rating, bid and RFx management, simple OFAC search integration, a custom report designer, full-text searching and indexing, document version control, electronic signatures, digital signatures, artificial intelligence and machine learning, AI-based clause recognition, and more.

To stay up-to-date with valuable and visually engaging video content, subscribe to CobbleStone's YouTube channel and their Contract Insights blog!

Contact CobbleStone Software for a free demo and pricing information at Sales@CobbleStoneSoftware.com or call 866-330-0056.

Follow CobbleStone Software on LinkedIn.
We help employers keep costs down while providing convenient, excellent and low-wait-time patient care, creating a win-win.

CommunityMed Family Urgent Care, a locally owned and operated healthcare provider, is expanding its occupational medicine department that serves North Texas businesses.

Were confident our team and care options meet the needs of both employers and their staff, said Birken Olson, the CEO of CommunityMed. We help employers keep costs down while providing convenient, excellent and low-wait-time patient care, creating a win-win.

The company has been building its occupational medicine department, creating a solid foundation to assist companies in the Dallas and Fort Worth suburbs. Whether a company utilizes workers comp, is a non-subscriber company or is independently structured, CommunityMed is a highly trusted resource for employers who want to make things easier on themselves and their teams.

CommunityMed has worker's comp experience handling on-the-job accident or illness claims, providing only medically necessary appointments and treatment. Their clinics offer services such as physicals, customized pre-employment exams, EKGs, biometric screenings, tetanus and flu vaccinations, DOT physicals, drug screens and breath alcohol testing.

The healthcare organization provides web-based reporting for the screenings and one point of contact for HR managers and safety officers, making the experience as stress-free as possible for employers.

CommunityMed was one of the first providers in the metroplex to offer same-day PCR COVID-19 testing earlier this year and has been on the forefront of COVID-19 testing and operational adjustments since the start of the pandemic. The organization implemented a virtual waiting room almost immediately at the onset of the pandemic and prides itself on providing a modern-day patient experience.

The clinics have evening and weekend hours, fully electronic registration, online appointment booking and lower costs than emergency rooms for non-life-threatening injuries. Since its clinics are in DFW suburbs, the location combined with the virtual wait room often cuts down transit time for employees, saving them time and getting them back to work faster.

For more information about CommunityMeds occupational medicine program, visit https://communitymedcare.com/occmed/

About CommunityMed

CommunityMed Urgent Care, based in Dallas, operates walk-in medical clinics throughout North Texas in smaller towns in the North Texas region. With clinics in Arlington, Cross Roads, Haslet, Lantana, McKinney, Melissa, Princeton, Prosper, Southlake and Wichita Falls, CommunityMed offers first-class service, top quality care and a hometown spirit. Visit the company website at CommunityMedCare.com.
"Diana is known globally for her talents of making practical sense of complex climate matters...[her] ability to distill and communicate these multi-faceted topics, and do so in actionable ways, will make her especially valuable to Eurasia Group clients." - Maziar Minovi, Eurasia Group CEO

Eurasia Group, the worlds leading political risk research and consulting firm, is pleased to announce that Diana Fox Carney, a widely respected expert on global climate and energy policy, will be joining as a senior advisor. At Eurasia Group, Fox Carney will work closely with Vice Chairman Gerald Butts, who helped negotiate the Paris Climate Agreement, to bolster the firms growing climate and energy practice. By adding Fox Carneys extensive climate background to Eurasia Groups geopolitical expertise, Fox Carney will strengthen the firms ability to partner with clients on issues that are at the cutting edge of sustainability policy and to help them navigate these profound changes.

Diana is known globally for her talents of making practical sense of complex climate matters, issues that frequently intersect with economics and technology, said Maziar Minovi, Eurasia Groups CEO. Dianas ability to distill and communicate these multi-faceted topics, and do so in actionable ways, will make her especially valuable to Eurasia Group clients, who are increasingly thinking about how to capitalize on opportunities that reverse the harmful effects of global warming.

Fox Carney comes to Eurasia Group after many years of climate policy work at think tanks in Canada and the UK. Most recently, she served as the executive director of Pi Capital, the leading content-based membership organization in the UK. Her professional experience prior to Pi Capital ranges from agricultural research in Africa to assessing new and advanced energy technologies. In particular, Fox Carney has helped develop frameworks for thinking about getting to net zero greenhouse gas emissions, the role negative emissions will play in this effort, and how capital can be channeled to the right companies.

The compelling logic behind climate action is finally being recognized after many years of neglect, said Fox Carney. As we enter a new era, opportunities abound. Yet companies and investors face a new challenge: how to accelerate action in unfamiliar spaces and do so within a very short period of time. Finding ways to ease this transition is why Im delighted to join Eurasia Group, where I hope to build on the firms unique ability to add both informed insight and practical value.

Besides advising clients, Fox Carney will assume a prominent role at Eurasia Groups events, where she will serve as a moderator and expert. Fox Carney graduated from Oxford University and holds masters degrees in agricultural economics and international relations from Oxford and the University of Pennsylvania, respectively. She is based in Ottawa, Canada.

About Eurasia Group:

Eurasia Group is the world's leading global political risk research and consulting firm. By providing information and insight on how political developments move markets, we help clients anticipate and respond to instability and opportunities everywhere they invest or do business. Our expertise includes developed and developing countries in every region of the world, specific economic sectors, and the business and investment playing fields of the future. With our best-in-class advisory and consulting offerings and GZERO Media, the Eurasia Group umbrella provides the marketplace with a complete political risk solution. Headquartered in New York, we have offices in Washington, London, San Francisco, Brasilia, Sao Paulo, Singapore, and Tokyo, as well as on-the-ground experts and resources in more than a hundred countries. "Politics first grounds our work: Politics is the lens through which we view the world, and we are committed to analysis that is free of political bias and the influence of private interests.

Media enquiries:

Gregory Roth

Director of Communications

Eurasia Group / GZERO Media

media@eurasiagroup.net
Why: 16 violations (four high-priority), including at least 69 live and dead flies in the kitchen, food prep areas and on clean dishes of pasta and fried calamari, plate of seafood mix, and a plate of fried corvina and potatoes. Inspectors saw that one employee handled soiled dishes and placed in dirty bin, then touched clean plated food. The state also ordered Divina to stop selling diced cheese, cooked eggs and cooked white rice for improper food temperatures. Facility allowed to fully reopen April 30 when inspectors found zero follow-up issues.
Visit dicentra.com The focus for this years event is the future of health and wellness and will include spotlights on topics such as personalized nutrition and artificial intelligence. We have some great speakers lined up, and well be announcing the agenda soon. Stay tuned! said Peter Wojewnik, VP at dicentra.

dicentra, a contract research organization (CRO) and professional consulting firm headquartered in Toronto, is proud to announce it will be hosting a one-day Digital Summit  a virtual event happening on October 14, 2021, which is currently open for registration to the public. The Digital Summit is the organizations first of its kind and will be taking place fully online. The Digital Summit also promises to bring together industry experts to discuss big issues impacting the life sciences and food industries today and in the future.

The Digital Summit is dicentras first-ever virtual event and features industry experts such as Vince Lynch, President & CEO of IV.AI, Tom Aarts, Owner of Nutrition Capital Network, Steve Mister, President & CEO of Council for Responsible Nutrition, as well as dicentras own CEO Alicja Wojewnik, and VP of Clinical Research, Dr. Gurinder Rai.

The event will also include sponsorship opportunities in order to help keep the event free for all. To inquire about the sponsorship opportunities, please visit https://dicentra.com/2021-digital-summit.

We are thrilled to announce this event, the first of its kind for us, said Peter Wojewnik, VP of Growth, Marketing, and Sales at dicentra. The focus for this years event is the future of health and wellness and will include spotlights on topics such as personalized nutrition and artificial intelligence. We have some great speakers lined up, and well be announcing the agenda soon. Stay tuned!

For more information about the Digital Summit, visit https://dicentra.com/2021-digital-summit or follow dicentra on Twitter or LinkedIn to stay up to date on the event and join in the conversation.

About dicentra

dicentra is a contract research organization and professional consulting firm that specializes in addressing all matters related to safety, quality, and compliance for all product categories in the life sciences and food industries. We evaluate, implement, and provide all the necessary support for your products and operations, allowing you to gain market access while building confidence in your brand. We achieve this through our four business divisions: Life Sciences, Food Safety & Quality, Global Certifications, and Clinical Trials. Since our inception in 2002, we have completed over 18,000 projects and serviced over 1,200 companies internationally.

dicentra is headquartered in Toronto, Ontario. For more information, visit http://www.dicentra.com.


GVG Capital, LLC is the single largest producer of off-market, highly motivated home seller leads in the United States.

GVG Capital, LLC is the single largest producer of off-market, highly motivated home seller leads in the United States.

We strive to reimagine what real estate technology is capable of. Home buyers and sellers increasingly rely on the internet as a major resource. Were passionate about leveraging cutting edge technology to massively improve the experience of home buyers and sellers as they navigate the complexities of the real estate industry. Graham Gochneaur, CEO

GVG Capital, LLC joins an impressive group of companies showing stunning rates of growth across all industries in Texas. Between 2017 and 2019, these 250 private companies had an average growth rate of 210 percent. In 2019 alone, they employed more than 44,000 people and added more than $9 billion to the Texas economy.

GVG Capital, LLC is part of the Dallas metro areaone of the regions which brought in the highest revenue overall.

The impressive growth of GVG Capital, LLC, confirms the leadership teams intuition of where the real estate industry is headed. GVG Capital recognized early on that in order to be competitive, wed need to toss out conventional marketing techniques and innovate. Every home that is sold has a story behind it, and our philosophy is to understand that story by connecting the circumstances, external factors and intricacies which lead up to a real estate transaction. We provide solutions that create a win-win for all parties involved in the sale. - Hillary Hobson, COO

For more information, contact: info@gvgcapital.org or visit https://gvgcapital.org

More about Inc. and the Inc. 5000 Regionals:

Complete results of the Inc. 5000 Regionals: Texas, including company profiles and an interactive database that can be sorted by industry, metro area, and other criteria, can be found at https://www.inc.com/inc5000/regionals/texas starting March 16, 2021.

This list proves the power of companies in Texas no matter the industry, says Inc. editor-in-chief Scott Omelianuk. The impressive revenues and growth rates prove the insight and diligence of CEOs and that these businesses are here to stay.

Methodology:

The 2021 Inc. 5000 Regionals are ranked according to percentage revenue growth when comparing 2017 and 2019. To qualify, companies must have been founded and generating revenue by March 31, 2017. They had to be U.S.-based, privately held, for profit, and independentnot subsidiaries or divisions of other companiesas of December 31, 2019. (Since then, a number of companies on the list have gone public or been acquired.) The minimum revenue required for 2017 is $100,000; the minimum for 2019 is $1 million. As always, Inc. reserves the right to decline applicants for subjective reasons.

About Inc. Media:

The worlds most trusted business-media brand, Inc. offers entrepreneurs the knowledge, tools, connections, and community to build great companies. Its award-winning multiplatform content reaches more than 50 million people each month across a variety of channels including websites, newsletters, social media, podcasts, and print. Its prestigious Inc. 5000 list, produced every year since 1982, analyzes company data to recognize the fastest-growing privately held businesses in the United States. The global recognition that comes with inclusion in the 5000 gives the founders of the best businesses an opportunity to engage with an exclusive community of their peers, and the credibility that helps them drive sales and recruit talent. The associated Inc. 5000 Conference is part of a highly acclaimed portfolio of bespoke events produced by Inc. For more information, visit http://www.inc.com.
Croatia

WESTERN EUROPE WITH A TASTE OF PORTUGAL FROM $999

Home to architectural wonders and world-famous attractions, Western Europe should be at the top of every travelers bucket list. And one of the best countries to begin your journey is Portugal. From the cobbled streets of Lisbon to the breathtaking Douro River of Porto, this Southern European country has plenty to offer. Beautiful scenery, picturesque landscapes, and rich history await travelers looking to explore the land. Starting at $999 including flights, this Indus Travels 8-day tour of Portugal will guide you through the quaint villages, golden beaches, and fine port wines. Book and receive $600/person discount! Option add more days through Western Europe with these magnificent tours of Spain, Portugal and Morocco. Ancient buildings, extravagant cultures, and the warm Mediterranean climate await!

CENTRAL EUROPE WITH CROATIA, THE BEST OF THE ADRIATIC  12 DAYS FROM $2299

Croatia is one of the growing treasures of Central Europe. Magnificent architecture and gorgeous coastlines are commonplace to this Adriatic haven. The coastal country offers a fascinating mix of Romanesque, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture lined with colorful houses and crystal-blue waters. Starting at $2299 including airfare, this 12-day Indus Travels special showcases the Best of the Adriatic as you explore the old town walls of Dubrovnik, World Heritage Sites in Split, and the extraordinary topography of Ljubljana. Discover the natural beauty of Croatia and Slovenia and take in the magical scenery and rich history these countries have to offer. Discover the magnificent scenery and man-made beauty of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Slovakia, Serbia, Macedonia, and other breathtaking destinations with Indus Travels.

NORTHERN EUROPE WITH UNFORGETTABLE IRELAND

From evergreen hills to breathtaking castles and international festivals, visitors will have plenty to explore. And one of the best countries to begin Europe travels is Ireland. Starting at $1950 including flights, this 9-day Indus Travels tour of Ireland will guide you through legendary attractions you have only dreamed of. Experience the lively atmosphere of the Emerald Isle. Explore the legendary Cliffs of Moher, admire the magical scenery of County Kerry, and kiss the Stone of Eloquence at Blarney Castle. Book Unforgettable Ireland & get 50% discount or expand your journey with these fascinating tours to Northern Europe, and discover the awe-inspiring beauty of Scandinavia, Germany, Russia, the Baltics, and Great Britain.

SAFE TRAVELS ASSURED

Concerned about safety? Let us put your worries at ease. At Indus Travels we always make the health and safety of our travelers a priority. Indus has created a set of standards with specific precautions set in place to create a safe travel environment for all passengers and staff.

Bookings will be scheduled with the ability to postpone, change dates, and cancel your trip within 60 days of departure. Vehicles will be sanitized before each trip and operators will follow World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. We strictly handpick hotels that follow WHO health and safety guidelines. Learn more about the Safe Travels Assurance Policy.

For further information,

Contact: Praveen Syal,

Indus Travels Inc.

233  11951 Hammersmith Way

Richmond BC V7E 1H8

Canada

Tel. 604 279 8794

http://www.indus.travels
Renaissance Dreams refers to the rebirth of passions delayed and of hope to come.

Once upon a time, there was a little girl who wanted to be somebody, but she was always told that she was nothing, wrote author, poet and photographer Juanita Gaskin. The writer side of Gaskin remained dormant as depression and life circumstances held her back, however, writing had been a desire of hers ever since she was nine-years-old and was something she could turn to even during moments where she felt she could not do anything else. After deciding to go back to college at the age of 53 and earning her BA in English with a minor in Creative Writing, Gaskin was motivated to continue writing and published her first book Renaissance Dreams  Lifes Journey through Poetry.

After Gaskins son was shot and paralyzed at the age of 20, she devoted much of her time and energy to caring for him and fell into a deep depression feeling as though everything in her life had fallen apart. As time went on, Gaskin continued to find comfort and healing in her writing and was able to reinvent her place in life by not letting fear or the disapproval of others determine her path.

Renaissance Dreams refers to the rebirth of passions delayed and of hope to come, said Gaskin. I walked through dark times and managed to walk into the light. It becomes a battle with the self, when you reach for a goal with no one there to help you through or cheer you forward you wonder whether you have the strength to keep fighting, but you must believe in yourself. It takes a positive mind to get you where you truly belong.

Gaskins book shares poems about her depression as it was a form of therapy that gave her the strength to push beyond the madness to find her inner woman who had been lost and she was able to awake to a new beginning. She hopes readers will also find this strength through her poetry and the courage to hold on just a little longer as hope is always on the way. To learn more, please visit http://www.RenaissanceDreamsBook.com.

Renaissance Dreams  Lifes Journey through Poetry

By Juanita Gaskin

ISBN: 978-1-6632-0670-1 (sc) 978-1-6632-0669-5 (e)

Available through Amazon, Barnes & Noble and iUniverse

About the Author

Juanita Gaskin grew up in Harlem, New York never knowing what possibilities awaited her. Reading was her first escape, followed by poetry. She received a degree in English/Creative Writing from Montclair State University which became the road map to achieving her goals. Pursuing her dreams gave Gaskin the strength to opening doors she thought had been closed for her to a world of possibilities and a gateway to finding her place in this world. She is a proud mother and grandmother currently residing in Montclair, New Jersey, and continues to write poetry often.

For Interview & Review Copy Requests:

LAVIDGE Publicity, Lauren Dickerson

ldickerson@lavidge.com, 480-306-7117


Integrated Medical Communications is proud to announce the inaugural issue of a magazine focused on the most up-to-date news in the world of genitourinary cancer.

GU Oncology Now is a new journal that will publish nine issues in 2021. The first issue highlights new therapeutics in advanced prostate cancer, and a future issue will discuss precision medicine in prostate cancer. Volume two will share summaries of research presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) 2021 Genitourinary Cancers Symposium. Future issues will focus on additional conferences, including ASCO as well as the Society of Nuclear Medicine & Molecular Imaging (SNMMI), American Urological Association (AUA), European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO), American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO), and Society of Urologic Oncology (SUO).

GU Oncology Now will have a circulation of over 14,000, with recipients including medical oncologists, urologists, radiation oncologists, and nuclear medical radiologists who will benefit from the latest news surrounding genitourinary cancer.

This is a very exciting time in the world of oncology, and in genitourinary cancer in particular, said publisher Joe Palumbo, CEO of Integrated Medical Communications. As advances in treatments and technologies continue, we are looking forward to keeping oncologists, radiologists, and everyone else in the field abreast of the latest news in the space. Its our intention to provide knowledge, interviews with experts, results of ongoing clinical trials, conference summaries, and information that will be useful to your clinical practice. Our vision is to create a high-quality publication that is relevant, challenging, and thought-provoking.

In the very first issue, GU Oncology Now offers interviews with two widely recognized experts in the field. Andrei Iagaru, MD, Professor of Radiology  Nuclear Medicine and the Chief of the Division of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging at Stanford Health Care, discusses the latest updates in prostate cancer imaging using positron emission tomography (PET). And Scott T. Tagawa, MD, Professor of Medicine and Urology at Weill Cornell Medicine, and Attending Physician at New York-Presbyterian  Weill Cornell Medical Center, explains the benefits and roadblocks of prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA)-targeting in prostate cancer treatment, as well as upcoming therapies in the pipeline for prostate cancer treatment.

About Integrated Medical Communications

Integrated Medical Communications (IMC) is a recently founded medical publishing company aimed at providing the latest in healthcare news and published literature to healthcare professional across multiple specialties. IMC promotes excellence through providing news that is fair, balanced, and accurate. IMC collaborates with societies, organizations, thought leaders and experts to develop high level content in both digital and print platforms. To learn more, visit: https://www.integratedmedicalcommunications.com/

https://www.GUOncologyNow.com/
In the recent election campaign, an ultra-Orthodox ad exclaimed: You want to understand what is Reform? So you should know that they have such a thing as bar mitzvahs for dogs. Ludicrous. Privately, some Jews (secular, Reform and Conservative) have used mock bar mitzvah celebrations when their beloved dogs reach 13. Its an excuse for a great party. (One which shows that Jews of all denominations mark time in relation to our traditions.) It is not manifesting disrespect to Judaism; but rather reflects our Jewish souls when we want to party. Think Purim, when even the Haredim are urged to get drunk to the point they dont know the difference between Mordechai and Haman.
Dr. Singh is double-board certified in gastroenterology and internal medicine and is a Diplomate of the American Board of Integrative Medicine. Our vision and Dr. Singhs philosophy are well-aligned  to help individuals feel well, obtain their health goals and take control of their lives, said Scott Sensenbrenner, President & CEO of Enzymedica.

Enzymedica, a market leader in natural solutions for digestive health and wellness, announces the expansion of its Scientific Advisory Board with the appointment of one of the top gastroenterologists in the United States. Dr. Marvin Singh, MD, has joined the companys newly formed scientific advisory team to better support its education, research and product development efforts. Dr. Singh is double-board certified in gastroenterology and internal medicine and is a Diplomate of the American Board of Integrative Medicine. He is renowned within the field of personalized medicine and trained under integrative medicine pioneer Dr. Andrew Weil.

Im pleased to be joining Enzymedicas Scientific Advisory Board as they expand their education initiatives to make it possible for all people to be on top of their health, rather than underneath disease, said Dr. Singh. I share Enzymedicas passion for bringing great health to each and every household. I look forward to collaborating with my fellow board members to achieve these goals.

Dr. Singh brings to the Enzymedica Scientific Advisory Board his immense knowledge and training in science, wellness and longevity. He graduated from the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, then completed his residency training in Internal Medicine at the University of Michigan Health System followed by fellowship training in Gastroenterology at Scripps Clinic Torrey Pines in La Jolla, CA. He later graduated from a fellowship at the Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine at the University of Arizona, where he trained directly with Dr. Weil.

Now based in San Diego, Dr. Singh is the founder and CEO of Precisione Clinic, where he provides clients with the best in individualized and preventive medicine, leveraging both traditional and integrative methods for the optimal approach to diagnostics and health management. He guides clients toward optimal wellness, using cutting-edge technologies to design personalized, precision-based protocols to optimize health and promote longevity. Dr. Singh is also the Director of Integrative Gastroenterology at the Susan Samueli Integrative Health Institute at UC Irvine, as well as a voluntary Assistant Clinical Professor at UC San Diego School of Medicine in the Department of Family Medicine and Public Health.

Dr. Singh is the author of the forthcoming book - Own Your Health. He also is a member of the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine, American College of Lifestyle Medicine, and numerous other societies. Dr. Singh is actively involved in the American Gastroenterological Association, is one of the editors of the textbook of Integrative Gastroenterology, 2nd edition (a Weil Series text), and has authored several book chapters and articles.

Our vision and Dr. Singhs philosophy are well-aligned  to help individuals feel well, obtain their health goals and take control of their lives, said Scott Sensenbrenner, President & CEO of Enzymedica. Our goal is to search the planet for the best solutions nature provides for gastrointestinal health, and Dr. Singhs expertise will play a pivotal and fundamental role in our quest to ensure that all our products are of the highest quality and the most efficacious. His contributions also will help advance our mission to raise awareness that the best solutions for gastrointestinal health and wellness come from the planet. We look forward to collaborating with Dr. Singh as we shape this vision.

Visit https://enzymedica.com to learn more about Enzymedica.

About Enzymedica

Enzymedica is a Florida-based, natural digestive health company since 1998 that sells to over 30,000 stores worldwide and online. Its top-selling enzyme brand is No. 1 in America. In addition to high quality products, Enzymedica also is dedicated to its People & Planet initiative, which is a core pillar within the companys mission - to leave a legacy that will make the world a better place. The company has received more than 50 industry awards including multiple Better Nutrition Magazines People's Choice Awards, many Best of Supplements Awards and numerous VITY and Nexty Awards. Visit https://enzymedica.com/ for more information.

Media Contact

Ria Romano, Partner

RPR Public Relations, Inc.

Tel. 786-290-6413
Meridian Adhesives Group This will benefit our customers and partners by opening up additional product offerings and technical support, further positioning us as the go-to solution providers in the adhesives market.

Meridian Adhesives Group (Meridian) announced today the acquisition of Frontier Products Inc. (Frontier).

Located in Alvarado, Texas, Frontier is a manufacturer of high-performance flooring solutions, including urethane, acrylic pressure sensitive and hybrid adhesives; moisture barriers; sound control; and construction products. With more than 40 years of experience in the flooring industry, Frontier offers custom formulations for its private label customers throughout North America.

The addition of Frontier to our Flooring Division brings new processes and technologies to our platform, said Daniel Pelton, CEO of Meridian Adhesives Group. This will benefit our customers and partners by opening up additional product offerings and technical support, further positioning us as the go-to solution providers in the adhesives market.

As part of Meridians Flooring Division, Frontier will work alongside Taylor Adhesives, a leading name in the flooring adhesives market for its resilient, wood and carpet flooring adhesives and the companys moisture mitigation coatings and specialty products; as well as Polycom Solutions, a manufacturer specializing in custom product assembly solutions.

Im especially excited to be bringing Frontier into the Meridian Flooring Division to work alongside Taylor and Polycom, said Paul Murfin, President of Taylor and Meridians Flooring Division. Frontier helps expand our product and brand portfolio and further increases our leadership position in the flooring adhesives space.

Together, the three companies will serve the flooring industry with advanced flooring, construction and product assembly solutions.

Joining Meridian Adhesives Group is a strategic move that will meet the goals of our company, said Carl Nichols, President of Frontier. Having the backing of Meridian and Taylor  technologically, operationally and financially  will allow us to better serve our customers and continue the upward momentum of our business.

For more information regarding Frontier Products Inc., visit https://frontierproductsinc.com.

About Meridian Adhesives Group

Meridian Adhesives Group is a leading manufacturer of high-value adhesive technologies. With a broad portfolio of dynamic solutions, Meridian serves the electronics, infrastructure, flooring, packaging and product assembly markets. The groups operations are located in the Americas, EMEA and Asia, with a multitude of sales/service offices worldwide that are positioned to serve Meridians global customer base. For more information, visit https://meridianadhesives.com.


Christopher Walsh and Christian Giamanco I knew that a lot of agents wanted to do this, but they needed somebody to create a movement that provided guidance and confidence while transitioning to this new model. My partner and I decided to be that somebody."

Christopher Walsh, along with his business partner Christian Giamanco, announced today that their real estate agency, RE/MAX The Real Estate Leaders, has joined eXp Realty, LLC, the largest residential real estate brokerage by geography in North America and the first and only real estate brokerage in all 50 states. eXp Realty, LLC is the fastest growing agency in the world and is a publicly traded company on the NYSE, which provides its members a proprietary digital media platform to interact and operate like never before, passing on advanced benefits to each of their agents and clients. The eXp Realty, LLC growth model has never been seen by the real estate industry in this fashion. Walsh and Giamancos 80 agents will join the global eXp Realty, LLC network, significantly expanding the companys existing New Jersey footprint.

RE/MAX The Real Estate Leaders was acquired in 2008 by Christopher Walsh as a failing company, and was later joined in 2016 by fellow mega agent, Christian Giamanco, as Partner and Co-Owner. Focusing on Monmouth and Ocean Counties and the surrounding communities, they have turned the once-failing company into a booming organization responsible for the sale of nearly 10,000 residential properties since initial acquisition and has been ranked among the top one percent for overall sales volume nationwide in recent years. Just as importantly, RE/MAX The Real Estate Leaders has grown into a realty powerhouse by investing in its own agents and owns multiple RE/MAX franchises within the Monmouth/Ocean County Multiple Listing System. Walsh himself was ranked under the RE/MAX organization as #1 individual agent in New Jersey, #20 in the USA, and #36 in the world for the calendar year 2020.

With an ethos of being 100 percent committed to providing premier and quality service to every client, the Walsh/Giamanco agency has closed nearly $3 billion dollars in total sales. Clients rely on their agency not only because they provide security in every transaction, but also because of their cutting-edge approach to marketing and hands-on guidance for all properties serviced within their organization. Walsh stated, Our agents are truly a distinguished group. We are super proud of them and their ability to navigate so well in their businesses.

The move to eXp Realty, LLC, a completely cloud-based, national real estate brokerage, highlights their groundbreaking approach to business growth. Were always innovating and looking for the next optimal expansion opportunity, Walsh said. Joining forces with eXp Realty, LLC allows our agents to bring this modern approach into practice alongside our strong, traditional, community-based strategies. It really is an exciting time to be a REALTOR as we blaze our path into the future of real estate.

As with many eXp Realty, LLC broker-partners, Walsh and Giamanco will continue to operate under each of their individual brand names as agents. Their agency as a whole will convert to a Mega Icon team now brokered by eXp Realty, LLC. According to Giamanco, the move to partner with eXp Realty, LLC was precisely what he and Walsh were looking for to launch their already successful brands and agency into their next level of growth. "When I saw the model of eXp Realty, LLC and what it could bring to our agents businesses and clients, it was clear we had to take the leap, said Giamanco.

Walsh explained, I knew that a lot of agents wanted to do this, but they needed somebody to create a movement that provided guidance and confidence while transitioning to this new model. My partner and I decided to be that somebody. Our goal is to build the biggest and most powerful sales team within the eXp Realty, LLC network. We will be combining forces with several other broker/owners in the very near future. Stay tuned for whats next. Its going to be massive.

The Real Estate Leaders will continue operating out of their brick-and-mortar locations as a hybrid setup, with this new digital model powered by eXp Realty, LLC. As Giamanco added, Under this new infrastructure, we now have the benefits of the newest technology to enhance both the agent and client real estate experience and ultimate versatility to be mobile and flexible at the same time.

About The Real Estate Leaders

The Real Estate Leaders, now brokered by eXp Realty, LLC is a Mega Icon Team with nearly $500,000,000 in annual sales that specializes in all aspects of New Jersey real estate, including both conventional and non-conventional transactions and caters to each client by providing custom-tailored marketing and a unique roadmap for their particular real estate needs. Areas of focus include all price range single-family and multi-family properties, condo/townhome communities, luxury home sales, waterfront properties, development projects, new construction, and investment opportunities. Agents interested in joining The Real Estate Leaders, Brokered by eXp Realty, LLC should email Join@RELeadersNJ.com or call (866)913-2815. Additionally, feel free to contact Christopher Walsh directly by visiting http://www.TheRealEstateLeader.com and Christian Giamanco directly by visiting https://www.GiamancoRealEstate.com.

About eXp Realty

eXp Realty, LLC is a full-service real estate brokerage providing 24/7 access to collaborative tools, training, and socialization for real estate brokers and agents through its 3-D, fully immersive, cloud office environment. eXp Realty, LLC, The Real Estate Cloud Brokerage, is the fastest-growing global residential real estate company, now with more than 50,000 agents in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. As of December 2020, eXp Realty had experienced over 1,620% agent growth since 2016. Presently, eXp Realty, LLC is growing at a staggering rate of 2,895 agents per month. As a subsidiary of a publicly traded company, eXp Realty, LLC uniquely offers their real estate professionals opportunities to earn eXp World Holdings stock for production achievements and agents also benefit from eXp Realty, LLCs revenue share model, which has never been seen before in the real estate industry.
Author Norma Patrick Seto grew up in the eastern Kentucky foothills of the Appalachian Mountainsa region too often defined by poverty and lack of opportunity. However, as Seto recounts in her humorous and heartfelt memoir, Life Goes Better with Chocolate Gravy: Mountain MemoriesMischief and Misery, there is no shortage of abundant joy and creativity.

Life Goes Better with Chocolate Gravy offers an authentic glimpse of Appalachian life spanning several generations, transcending stereotypes and capturing the spirit of the people who call the mountain region home. Through everyday vignettes such as preserving family memories in quilts sewn by the light of kerosene lamps, a Christmas made magical with only four dollars to spend, family and friends coming together when someone laid a corpse, and kids setting the woods on fire to end a game of Fox and Hounds, the book demonstrates the ingenuity, hard work, strong faith, deep communal bonds and fullness of life that characterizes eastern Kentucky.

While Seto began writing her book as a means to record family history, it soon blossomed into a collection of short stories that pays tribute to the flavor of life in eastern Kentucky. Through offering a true and personal perspective on Appalachian life, readers will understand that while circumstances were hard and opportunities scarce, there is much to learn from those who persevered and made the most of what they had.

I am proud of my heritage, writes Seto. The people and circumstances you will read about helped to shape my life, lay the groundwork for good work ethic, nurture and build a strong faith in God, and give me an appreciation for the simple things. I believe that what I experienced growing up positively impacted my own life and the lives of my children.

Through her heartwarming, humorous, and entertaining memoir of growing up in the hills of eastern Kentucky, Norma invites us to meet colorful characters who lived life the way it was meant to be lived  simply and to the fullest, wrote Dr. Jeffrey F. Neal, Director of the Cooperative Education Program at Clemson University.

Life Goes Better with Chocolate Gravy: Mountain MemoriesMischief and Misery

By Norma Patrick Seto

ISBN: 9781664213333 (softcover); 9781664213357 (hardcover); 9781664213340 (electronic)

Available from Amazon, Christianbook.com and WestBow Press

About the author

Norma Patrick Seto is passionate about family history and sharing stories that describe her roots and the people she loves. She is Mom to three adult children, Grammy to five grandchildren and a caregiver for her 100-year-old mother who is happy to hold a copy of the published stories that include many of her own life experiences. Seto currently resides in Maineville, Ohio. To read more of Setos stories, please visit comax83.wixsite.com/website.

Review Copies & Interview Requests:

LAVIDGE  Phoenix

Leslie Standridge

480-998-2600 x 586

lstandridge(at)lavidge(dot)com
We only had to come up with 10 percent down with the 504 loan, its the most affordable option out there.

TMC Financing, a commercial real estate lender specializing in Small Business Administration (SBA) 504 loans, recently helped Oaktown Spice Shop, secure financing to purchase a 6,625 square-foot industrial warehouse in Berkeley, CA. This $1.95 million acquisition spearheaded their expansion and will be instrumental in streamlining their production.

Oaktown Spice Shop co-owners John Beaver and Erica Perez pride themselves on being able to offer high-quality, hand-mixed spice blends through several retail locations in the Bay Area. They source the best-tasting version of each individual spice by working with hundreds of different importers and grinding their spices in-house. As a result, Oaktown customers can purchase fresh, flavorful spices to use in their own kitchens.

Perez and Beavers path to success began in 2009 when they moved to Oakland and found a community that placed immense value on food, but not as much value on where they bought their spices. With Beavers extensive knowledge and enthusiasm for spices, and Perezs experience as a journalist, the couple enthusiastically embraced the possibility of opening their own spice shop to compliment this culinary neighborhood.

Oaktown Spice Shop began as a vague idea that quickly flourished into reality, states Perez. John knew everything there is to know about spices and my experience as a newspaper reporter allowed me to become an expert in the field and build a thorough business plan.

In 2011, Beaver and Perez officially launched Oaktown Spice Shop. Beaver worked full-time at the shop while Perez assisted on nights and weekends. Since then, Erica has joined the shop full-time, and three retail shops opened to cater to an extensive list of repeat clients.

Oaktown Spice Shop Utilizes SBA 504 Loan

As Oaktown Spice Shop flourished, Beaver and Perez recognized that purchasing a building for their business was the optimal way to streamline their spice production.

Owning property was a strategic business move that was long overdue, explains Beaver. Every year, particularly around the holidays, we were bursting at the seams attempting to manage inventory, production and packaging out of our retail locations.

The SBA 504 Program enabled Beaver and Perez to purchase their Berkeley warehouse with 90 percent financing at a below-market, fixed rate, fully amortized for 25 years.

Oaktown Spice was the perfect candidate for SBA 504 financing, stated Bryce Fennell vice president of TMC Financing who helped facilitate the deal. The 504 loan allows business owners to purchase, renovate, construct or refinance commercial real estate with only a 10 percent down payment. As a result, businesses can retain working capital for continued growth.

Perez considered conventional financing, but ultimately decided that they wanted to preserve their cash.

We only had to come up with 10 percent down with the 504 loan, said Perez. Its the most affordable option out there.

TMC Financing guided us every step of the way and educated us on concepts that we were unfamiliar with, concluded Perez. Now that we have the space to optimize production and our retail locations are reopening, we can become laser focused on maximizing our sales. It is truly an exciting prospect.

More About TMC Financing

TMC Financing is the No. 1 provider of SBA 504 commercial real estate in the Western United States. For 40 years, TMC has provided $10 billion in financing across California Nevada and Arizona. More than 6,000 businesses have benefited from this financing, resulting in the creation of an estimated 60,000 jobs. For more information on SBA 504 loans and the local businesses they support, http://www.tmcfinancing.com
Unitek Learning is the parent company of several distinguished learning institutions: Unitek College, Unitek EMT, Eagle Gate College, Provo College, and Brookline College. Through this dynamic approach, students can graduate with the knowledge and skills to launch a successful career as an Occupational Therapy Assistant.

In April, Brookline College received approval to offer their OTA program in Phoenix and accept students for 2021 courses. This Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) program will provide graduates with a coveted degree in the healthcare industry. The blended curriculum combines virtual instruction with hands-on exercises and lab work. Through this dynamic approach, students can graduate with the knowledge and skills to launch a successful career as an Occupational Therapy Assistant.

An OTA degree can make a significant difference in the life and career of a healthcare professional, said Dr. Abdel Yosef, Chief Academic Officer at Unitek Learning. At the Phoenix campus, students will have the opportunity to train with clinicians who practice in pediatric, rehabilitation, psychosocial, and geriatric settings.

Not only will aspiring Occupational Therapy Assistants gain invaluable skills, but theyll benefit from the convenience of completing some of their required courses online. Other benefits include experienced instructors, NBCOT test preparation services, and real-world simulations. Through the OTA program, students will train to work in a variety of healthcare settings, such as: hospitals, assisted-living facilities, community centers, schools, and sensory clinics.

We are thrilled to offer the OTA program at our Phoenix campus, said Janis Paulson, Chief Executive Officer at Unitek Learning. This is a big step forward for Unitek as we continue to educate the next generation of healthcare professionals. In extending our reach, we hope to better the communities around us through the advancement of education and healthcare.

Unitek Learning is the parent company of several distinguished learning institutions: Unitek College, Unitek EMT, Eagle Gate College, Provo College, and Brookline College. Unitek programs teach the clinical practices and theory used in the field today. Equipped with a multitude of sought-after skills, Unitek graduates are prepared to excel in many of the fastest-growing careers in healthcare and nursing.
Mountain Biking in Crested Butte Through this new program unique to the Gunnison Valley, visitors can now offset the environmental impact of their trip by recording a ride, hike, or run using the CBGTrails app. It is free and easy to use, and for every mile recorded, users offset 22 pounds of carbon.

In an effort to support a more sustainable tourism economy, the Gunnison-Crested Butte Tourism Association is developing a carbon offset program within the CBGTrails app powered by TerraQuest. Visitors will be able to combat climate change with a community challenge that turns human powered recreation into carbon offsets.

When people visit Gunnison-Crested Butte this spring or summer, their travel will add carbon to our atmosphere. Through this new program unique to the Gunnison Valley, visitors can now offset the environmental impact of their trip by recording a ride, hike, or run using the CBGTrails app. It is free and easy to use, and for every mile recorded, users offset 22 pounds of carbon. A 23 mile bike ride in the Gunnison Valley will turn a round trip drive from Denver into a carbon neutral trip.

Visitors who record their human powered recreation in the app will contribute towards a community goal of offsetting 4,253 tonnes of carbon, which is over 9 million lbs of CO2. Users will also be able to track their personal carbon offset as they work to equalize the carbon footprint of getting to the Gunnison Valley. Additionally, they will be able to see a graphic of all user activity in relation to the community goal, and how the carbon credits are being used. 100 miles of human powered activity will offset one tonne of carbon emissions!

The Gunnison-Crested Butte Tourism Association has already purchased UPCO2 tokens. These tokens enable qualified projects to turn their greenhouse gas reductions into tradable carbon credits. As trail miles originating in Gunnison County are tracked, the Association will retire or burn these tokens to support carbon offsetting projects. Users will be able to begin the carbon offset challenge on May 15, 2021.

Download the CBGTrails app on your smartphone to get started! Users will also have access to the most complete trail maps of the Gunnison Valley no matter where you roam. For more information on the carbon offset program, and to learn more about what is happening in the Gunnison Valley visit Gunnison-CrestedButte.com.

About the Gunnison-Crested Butte Tourism Association:

Gunnison County is home to over 2 million acres of public lands spanning 5 wilderness areas, a national park, and the largest body of water in Colorado, providing endless outdoor adventure in its backyard. The mission of the Gunnison-Crested Butte Tourism Association is to leverage local marketing district grant monies to grow overnight visitation revenues. The group also strives to diversify and develop the valleys economy in a sustainable manner through leadership on the Sustainable Tourism and Outdoor Recreation Committee, support for Western Colorado University, and creation of entrepreneurial opportunities in the valley.
UFN Waterloo Ice Cream Celebration Friday May 7th!

Ontario Trumansburg Telephone Companies (OTTC) is excited to announce that it is expanding its Fiber to the Home (FTTH) services under their CLEC Upstate Fiber Networks (UFN) into new regions including: Waterloo, Seneca Falls, Shortsville and Geneva New York starting in May 2021. We will be offering Fiber to the Home solutions at an affordable cost, $49.95/month for 250x250. Visit http://www.upstatefibernetworks.com to see the full coverage map.

Paul Griswold, President of OTTC & Upstate Fiber Networks says, Offering the newest technology for residents in these areas is a boost for everyone  residents and businesses alike. We feel good about being able to bring faster, more reliable fiber connectivity to more homes. The future is all about faster Wi-Fi and were here for it.

OTTC has been owned and operated by the Griswold family since 1920, and now has 5 generations operating the company. Known for its innovative communication solutions, we have prided ourselves in keeping up with the times. We are constantly evolving, bringing the latest technological advances in fiber connectivity to a broader community.

UFN will be kicking off the build with an ice cream event on Friday May 7th 12pm-2pm for the Waterloo community. For more details, visit our Facebook page!

To stay up to date for promotions and everything fiber-to-the-home related, like Upstate Fiber Networks on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/UpstateFiberNetworks

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The Ontario & Trumansburg Telephone Companies (OTTC) and their subsidiaries form the largest independently-owned telephone Company in New York State, providing phone and internet services to more than 8,000 residential and business customers. Founded in 1920, OTTC is a five generation, family-led business that keeps innovation at its core with nearly 100 years of experience. OTTC offers services in Phelps, Clifton Springs, Trumansburg, Interlaken, Ovid and Romulus. If you would like more information about this topic, please contact Ashley Gustafson at 585-313-9794 or email at ashleyg@ottctel.com.
I was impressed with PCF's aggressive growth plans and am looking forward to cross-selling opportunities with other PCF partners here in the near future.

PCF Insurance Services (PCF) is pleased to announce the completion of a new strategic partnership with Patterson Consulting Services (PCS) located in Slidell, Louisianajust outside of New Orleans. PCFs investment in the partnership will enable PCS Benefits to provide continued employee benefit programs and more comprehensive coverage for employees and businesses in the communities of Louisiana.

Damon Patterson, owner and agency principal of Patterson Consulting Services, will continue to lead all operations of PCS while also becoming an owner and Partner of PCF Insurance Services. Patterson has applied his experiences as a Senior Sales Representative and Regional Director for two national insurance companies, and later as the Area President for a national brokerage firm, into growing his consulting firm focused on the needs and desires of employers. His contract and underwriting expertise on large groups has earned him top marks and high rankings within the insurance industry.

At PCF, innovation and cross-selling means reshaping our industry, and that includes helping agents and agencies grow their businesses faster than ever before, said Peter Foy chairman, CEO and founder of PCF Insurance Services. By adding PCS Benefits to the PCF network, we will help agents and agencies cross-sell and access exclusive benefit options.

Patterson Consulting Services will continue to operate under its brand with best-in-class employee benefit programs and customer service. PCS Benefits advises its clientele on a broad scope of benefits, some of which include Medical Insurance, Network Evaluation, Dental Insurance, Group Life, Short and Long Term Disability, Indemnity Plans, and more.

PCS Benefits will continue as a proud member of the local and regional healthcare insurance community, including offering each of its existing carriers and providing the personal touch that each of its clients have come to know and trust.

I was impressed with PCF's aggressive growth plans and am looking forward to cross-selling opportunities with other PCF partners here in the near future, said Damon Patterson, owner and agency principal of Patterson Consulting Services, on why he chose to partner with PCF Insurance Services.

PCF will bring added infrastructure and operational support to Patterson Consulting Services through its Shared Services team. This elite team of experts offer tailored support in the areas of finance and accounting, human resources, information systems, carrier relations, communication and marketing, and growth operations. With 36 acquisitions in 2020 and over 60 agencies dotted across the United States, PCF is establishing its place on the national stage among the industrys most active acquirers.

###

About PCF

Founded in 1987 and headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, PCF is a full-service insurance brokerage firm which provides complete risk management solutions with a broad array of property & casualty, life and health, employee benefits and workers' compensation insurance products. Due to its scale and growth, PCF is a top 50 broker in the United States by revenue. Additional information can be found at https://pcfins.com/.

About Patterson Consulting Services

Founded in 2007 and headquartered in Slidell, Louisiana  just outside of New Orleans  Patterson Consulting Services is a full-service consulting firm specializing in the planning, implementation, and service of employee benefits programs. PCS Benefits specialty within employee benefit programs is healthcare. They are led by owner and agency principal, Damon Patterson. For additional information contact Patterson at damon@pcsbenefits.com.
The alleged shooter fired one shot from the motorcycle and then fled, police said. The victim was only grazed and was not taken to a hospital.
The improved PhotoCare insurance gives photographers peace of mind so that they can focus on what really matters: their clients and their craft.

Professional Photographers of America (PPA) announced today improvements to their PhotoCare equipment insurance, giving member photographers robust protection against costly repair and replacement fees. The improved insurance now includes:



Full replacement value of stolen or damaged equipment

Flat deductibles for repairs and replacements of photography gear like cameras, lenses, lighting set-ups, and computer hardware

With up to $15,000 in total coverage, PhotoCare insurance is included with PPA membership at no extra cost. Previously, the policy did not cover the full replacement value of equipment, and deductibles increased with each claim filed.

PPA is always looking for new ways to help photographers be profitable, and sometimes that means building on our existing membership benefits, Director of Membership Kristen Hartman said. Many photographers join PPA because of the equipment insurance included with membership, and were thrilled to say that the improved policy is truly one of the best available anywhere.

The news comes after an eventful year for the organization. Despite the crippling effects of the pandemic on the global economy, PPA gave $3 million in COVID relief to its 30,000 members in 2020, and the organization continues to provide real-time updates on the Payment Protection Plan to help small business owners navigate the loan application process. Just last month, the nonprofit announced subsidies for photography exhibitors at Imaging USA, the associations signature conference and trade show.

Our organization is dedicated to our members and their businesses, Hartman added. The improved PhotoCare insurance, like all of the resources included in PPA membership, gives photographers peace of mind so that they can focus on what really matters: their clients and their craft.

About PPA:

Professional Photographers of America (PPA) is the largest and longest-standing nonprofit photography trade association. Founded in 1868, PPA helps 30,000 professionals elevate their craft and grow their business with resources and education, all under PPAs core guiding principle of bridging the gap between photographers and their consumers. To learn more, visit PPA.com.
Royer Cooper Cohen Braunfeld LLC (RCCB), a law firm offering a distinctive combination of practical business acumen, legal expertise and entrepreneurial passion, today announced the promotion of attorneys Matt Brinker and Alex Nassar to Partner and Jennifer Ilana Tintenfass, David P. Dalesandro and Jordan Kovnot to Counsel. Brinker and Dalesandro reside in the firms Conshohocken office, with Nassar, Kovnot and Tintenfass in the Philadelphia office. The promotions were effective March 1, 2021.

We congratulate these accomplished attorneys on their significant career milestones, said Managing Partner John E. Royer, Jr. We are confident that these gifted individuals will play critical roles in the firms continued success.

Matt Brinker is a Partner in our Corporate & Business and Employment Groups. His practice focuses on mergers and acquisitions, private equity and venture capital, start-up and emerging growth companies, and business and commercial transactions, as well as executive employment agreements. Matt is a member of ACG Philadelphia and the Benefit Company Bar Association. Matt regularly speaks and presents CLEs on corporate and commercial law matters and has been named a Rising Star by Pennsylvania Super Lawyers Magazine each year since 2018.

Alex Nassar is Partner in the Employment, Litigation, and Corporate & Business Groups. Alex acts as a trusted advisor to clients in all aspects of employment law, related to both compliance and litigation. In addition, he focuses on employment transactional matters (including policy formation, employee and executive contract formation, and executive compensation), trade secrets litigation, insurance coverage, financial services litigation, and contract disputes, across a wide array of industries, including nonprofits. He serves on the Board of Directors of United Communities of Southeast Philadelphia. Alex was named a Rising Star by Pennsylvania Super Lawyers Magazine.

Jennifer Ilana Tintenfass is Counsel in the Real Estate, Corporate & Business and Cannabis Industry Groups. Her areas of practice include representing lenders and developers in many aspects of real estate transactions, including real estate secured financings and term and credit loans, acquisitions, dispositions, joint venture development, and leasing and due diligence analysis. Jennifer represents borrowers and lenders in connection with acquisition, construction, bridge/permanent, and affordable housing financings. Jennifer also has substantive experience in land use and zoning work in the City of Philadelphia, emphasizing raw land and projects involving single- and multi-family housing, and retail and mixed-use developments. She has also successfully guided clients in working with federal, state and local funding, grant programs and entitlement processes. Jennifer was recently honored as a 2020 Philadelphia Business Journal Real Estate Dealmaker Rising Star as well as a Rising Star by Pennsylvania Super Lawyers Magazine consecutively for the past five years.

Newly promoted Counsel David P. Dalesandro is a member of the Corporate & Business Group. His practice focuses on mergers and acquisitions, business and commercial transactions, private equity and venture capital, debt and equity financings, and general corporate and business counseling. David is a Board Member and Corporate Secretary of Casa Farnese, Inc.

Jordan Kovnot is Counsel in the Corporate & Business Group. He focuses on commercial contracts, intellectual property, software licensing transactions, privacy & data security issues, and manufacturing and supplier agreements. He serves as an advisor to businesses from startups to billion-dollar public companies as they look to protect and monetize their intellectual property, goods and services and successfully negotiate revenue-generating contracts.

About Royer Cooper Cohen Braunfeld LLC

RCCB empowers your ambition. We are attorneys who think and act like entrepreneurs and business people. We combine sophisticated, cost-effective legal counseling with the type of sound practical judgment that comes from hands-on business experience. We encourage entrepreneurial approaches and creative thinking, while maintaining the utmost in integrity and responsiveness. RCCB understands and delivers the advice that companies, business executives and investors, as well as individuals and their families, need to realize their hopes and goals. From offices in the Greater Philadelphia area and New York, RCCB serves clients throughout the Mid-Atlantic region and beyond. Additional information about Royer Cooper Cohen Braunfeld is available at http://www.rccblaw.com.

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Certified Pre-Owned Honda models offer extra benefits for used-car shoppers in St. Johns, NL

Steele Honda is offering a variety of Certified Pre-Owned Honda models to drivers in the St. Johns area starting at prices as low as $15,595. Drivers in the area are encouraged to check out these pre-owned vehicles at Steele Honda Used, the branch of the dealership which retails only used cars including Certified Pre-Owned models and other used models priced well below $10,000.

There are many benefits to drivers who decided to buy a Certified Pre-Owned Honda model. Certified Pre-Owned Honda models are rigorously inspected and must meet quality standards in order to be accepted into the program. That process helps drivers find high-quality used vehicles which can be purchased for less money than their new vehicle counterparts. Certified Pre-Owned Honda models also come with a Power Train Warranty, so the cost of repair for manufacturer defects in the vehicles powertrain is covered for the length of the warranty. These models also come with vehicle history reports, exchange privileges, and access to MyHonda.

Steele Honda offers a variety of Certified Pre-Owned Honda models including Honda Accord Sedan models, Honda Civic Sedan models, Honda CR-V models, Honda HR-V models and more. The variety of Certified Pre-Owned Honda models at the dealership is always changing, and drivers can view the current inventory online at steelehonda.com.

Drivers who would like to learn more about Certified Pre-Owned Honda models at the dealership are encouraged to first check out the dealerships website and view the used inventory for details on pricing and availability. Drivers can contact the dealership using the contact information on the site for any questions or concerns.
I wanted to explore a number of fascinating elements of French society through the lens of the murder mystery genre and to create a compelling character in the figure of Maillot who is intensely passionate about French culture and cuisine.

In his latest work of fiction, A Man of Impeccable Taste, author R. Brooke Jeffrey creates a murder mystery novel that is not only a portal into the complex personal history of his protagonist Inspector Charles Maillot, but serves as a backdrop to explore his insights into French history, culture, and cuisine.

During the winter of 1957, Inspector Maillot is called away from his culinary sojourn in Lyon, France to solve a gruesome murder in the South of France after a man is found crucified at the summer home of the archbishop of Toulouse. In order for Inspector Maillot to solve the crime, he must unravel a complex web involving Nazi collaboration, clerical abuse, and an outlawed medieval Christian sect the Cathars. During his investigation, he encounters Francoise, a captivating chef who shares not only his passion for classical French cuisine, but also a deep desire to heal from the traumatic events of the war. The many unexpected twists and turns of the case and his developing love affair with Francoise allows Maillot the opportunity to reflect upon how this horrific crime closely intersects with important aspects of French history and culture.

I wanted to explore a number of fascinating elements of French society through the lens of the murder mystery genre and to create a compelling character in the figure of Maillot who is intensely passionate about French culture and cuisine. All of Maillots insights, however, are ultimately influenced by his developing love for Francoise. states Jeffrey.

A Man of Impeccable Taste weaves into the storys plotline many insightful vignettes that deal with medieval and modern European history, French cuisine, art, and philosophy. Readers will be captivated by Inspector Maillot who despite the grisly nature of the crime and the bleak environment of post-war France is able to find a redemptive beauty in his love for Francoise and in French culture.

A Man of Impeccable Taste

By R. Brooke Jeffrey

ISBN: 978-1-6632-0783-8 (sc); 978-1-6632-0784-5 (e)

Available through Amazon, Barnes & Noble and iUniverse

About the Author

R. Brooke Jeffrey is a professor of radiology at Stanford University School of Medicine and the author of three novels published by iUniverse: The Abbey at Valcourt, The Magicians Tale and A Man of Impeccable Taste. He graduated from Princeton University with an AB in Religion. Currently, he resides in Los Altos Hills.

For Interview & Review Copy Requests:

LAVIDGE Publicity

Lauren Dickerson

ldickerson@lavidge.com

480-306-7117


Breathe Again: When Life Knocks the Wind out of You: a spiritual guide to getting back on your feet. Breathe Again: When Life Knocks the Wind out of You is the creation of published author, Tramel Marshall, a devoted husband and father, Crossfitter, and classic muscle car enthusiast.

Marshall shares, We all have good days, ok days, and horrific days. This is what we humans call, Life. One thing to be sure of is we cant always predict what will come our way. Unfortunately, life will throw us many diverse blows. Sometimes we are strong enough and can hold our ground and at other times we arent and get knocked down.

What about the knockout blow? That blow that comes unexpectedly; or one that is expected, and it still knocks the wind out of you? Have you ever been in a place where you have felt like turning in the towel? Now you are on the ground wondering, can you catch your breath and rise again? You have now literally made a way of life out of living with the wind knocked out of you. You are living with it as opposed to facing it head on and conquering it.

If you are honest with yourself and can see your reflection in these very words, take a walk with the author through this book. It will begin to unfold the many adversities that mankind faces along with the questions of the heart, the difficulties of changing and some solutions that will maximize your changing process.

Published by Christian Faith Publishing, Tramel Marshalls new book calls readers to action by encouraging a spiritual appraisal.

Offering a strong basis in bible study, this narrative is truly provocative in its approach to self-help and personal growth.

View a synopsis of Breathe Again: When Life Knocks the Wind out of You on YouTube.

Consumers can purchase Breathe Again: When Life Knocks the Wind out of You at traditional brick & mortar bookstores, or online at Amazon.com, Apple iTunes store, or Barnes and Noble.

For additional information or inquiries about Breathe Again: When Life Knocks the Wind out of You, contact the Christian Faith Publishing media department at 866-554-0919.
Natalie Yin, M.D.

U.S. Dermatology Partners is pleased to welcome Board-Certified Dermatologist Natalie Yin, M.D. to their Arvada, Denver, and Lakewood, Colorado locations.

Dr. Yin received her Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Sciences from the University of Florida, graduating Summa Cum Laude. She completed medical school at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine where she was elected a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society, a prestigious medical honor society. Dr. Yin remained at the University of Miami to complete a Clinical & Basic Science Research fellowship. Her dermatology residency took place at Columbia University in New York City, where she was selected to serve as chief resident during her final year. Dr. Yin is currently completing an Integrative Dermatology fellowship. She has a strong interest in integrative dermatology, which combines conventional medicine and alternative therapies.

Dr. Yin is a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology. She has published numerous articles in the peer-reviewed literature and has authored several book chapters.

Dr. Yin enjoys exploring the mountains of Colorado in her free time with her dog, Olive.

Dr. Yin will treat patients in Arvada, Denver, and Lakewood, Colorado. To schedule an appointment in the Arvada office call 303-424-6248. To schedule an appointment in the Lakewood office call 303-989-5231. To schedule an appointment at the Denver office call 303-261-1525.

About U.S. Dermatology Partners

As one of the largest physician-owned dermatology practices in the country, U.S. Dermatology Partners patients not only have access to general medical, surgical, and cosmetic skin treatments through its coordinated care network, but also benefit from the practices strong dermatology subspecialty thought leaders and medical advisory board. To be the best partner to its patients, U.S. Dermatology Partners is fervently focused on providing the highest level of patient-first care, and its team, therefore, includes recognized national leaders in areas such as clinical research, psoriasis, and Mohs Surgery. To learn more, visit usdermatologypartners.com.
USOSM President and CEO Richard Hall Provides Insight on Florida Partnership. Dr. Contino and Dr. Reed are well-known throughout their communities and the industry as being some of the best OMS specialists in the business.

U.S. Oral Surgery Management (USOSM)  a specialty management services company that exclusively serves premier oral and maxillofacial surgeons  is pleased to announce a new partnership with WestShore OMS Specialists, an oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMS) practice with two locations in southwest Florida, and USOSMs first official partner in the state. Headquartered in Irving, Texas, USOSM now has partner practices spanning 11 states: Texas, Colorado, Georgia, Tennessee, Minnesota, Alabama, Oklahoma, Louisiana, South Carolina, Mississippi and Florida.

Were thrilled to announce our first partnership in Florida with WestShore OMS Specialists, a practice with two locations serving communities in Lee and Collier County. Dr. Contino and Dr. Reed are well-known throughout their communities and the industry as being some of the best OMS specialists in the business. Theyre dedicated to exceptional patient care and clinical excellence, two factors that are also extremely important to us, said Richard Hall, USOSM president and CEO.

USOSM focuses on the business side of the practice, providing operational, marketing and administrative support services, which enables surgeon partners to focus on patient care.

The majority of oral surgeons operating in the U.S. today have small, independent practices, so in addition to providing patient care, they end up spending a lot of time on operations, marketing and administrative details  areas that are necessary, but not their specialty nor their passion. When oral surgeons partner with us, they retain complete clinical autonomy and they gain much needed time, so they can focus on their patients, while we focus on the rest, explained Hall.

WestShore OMS Specialists has two locations in west Florida. One is located at 1459 Ridge Street, Suite 1, in Naples, Florida; and the other is located at 9540 Bonita Beach Road SE, Suite 105, in Bonita Springs. Oral surgeons John Contino, DMD, and Eric H. Reed, DDS, MD, provide a wide variety of services, including tooth extraction, wisdom tooth removal, dental implants, TMJ disorder treatment, cleft lip and palate correction, facial trauma and reconstructive surgery, bone grafting and more.

"As our practice continued to grow, we felt we could take our office to the next level by partnering with USOSM to help manage the non-clinical aspects so we can put all of our attention on what we do best, focusing on patient care and performing great surgery," said Eric H. Reed, D.D.S., M.D., of WestShore OMS Specialists.

A shared services organization, 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.
We are honored to be a part of the development of the YMCA and thrilled for the opportunities that it will bring to the general public, including our local high school swim teams...Having the Natelli Family name as a part of this legacy is truly an honor, says Tom Natelli, Natelli Communities.

The YMCA of Frederick County recently opened the much anticipated 62,000 square foot facility, between Urbanas middle and high school, on 22 acres donated by Natelli Communities, valued at $8.5 million.

That gift of land literally provided the foundation upon which the Y could raise the necessary funds to build the facility, said Chris Colville, President & CEO, YMCA of Frederick County. What a glorious day seeing this project come to fruition.

Working locally, the Y focuses on empowering young people, improving health and well-being, and inspiring action in and across existing and new communities. Today and every day, the Y strengthens the fabric of our communities by ensuring that we all have access to the resources, relationships, and opportunities we need to lead, learn, grow and thrive.

For more than 40 years, Natelli Communities continues to follow the fundamental principles of Thoughtful Planning, Timeless Design, and Attention To Detail. These principles are the hallmarks of their award-winning reputation.

It has been an honor to be a vital part of the fabric of a growing community that has been able to maintain that small-town feel while embodying all the characteristics of a new version of small-town America. We take great pride in maintaining that balance and feel that those who live and work here really embrace that spirit of community, says Tom Natelli, Natelli Communities.

There is great pride working for an organization and movement that truly focuses on the most critical needs and services of the community and our deepest gratitude goes out to those individuals and businesses that support the Y, allowing us to fulfill our mission, stated Colville.

We are honored to be a part of the development of the YMCA and thrilled for the opportunities that it will bring to the general public, including our local high school swim teams. Its central location makes it a true benefit for all who will come out to enjoy its initiatives. Having the Natelli Family name as a part of this legacy is truly an honor, says Tom Natelli, Natelli Communities.

The Natelli family continues to provide for the benefit of others. The Natelli Communities Foundation develops innovative programs to provide ongoing sources of funding for non-profit community organizations. The Anthony M Natelli Foundation, established in 2005 after Toms father passed away, contributes cash and property to non-profits and charities in support of the local community.

Additional information on the YMCA of Frederick County can be found at http://www.frederickymca.org

About the Y: The Y is one of the nations leading nonprofits strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Across the U.S., 2,700 Ys engage 21 million men, women, and children  regardless of age, income, or background  to nurture the potential of children and teens, improve the nations health and well-being, and provide opportunities to give back and support neighbors. Anchored in more than 10,000 communities, the Y has long-standing relationships and physical presence not just to promise, but also to deliver, lasting personal and social change. http://www.frederickymca.org


Random House's Ten Speed Press imprint has established a new imprint, 4 Color Books, with Bryant Terry, the NAACP Image Award and James Beard Awardwinning chef and educator.

The imprint will publish books by "forward-thinking and groundbreaking BIPOC chefs, writers, artists, activists, and innovators" to "craft visually stunning nonfiction books that inspire readers and give rise to a more healthy, just, and sustainable world for all," Ten Speed said in a release. Terry will acquire and edit two to three titles in the lifestyle space per year, with Kelly Snowden, Ten Speeds editorial director, acquiring books in the food, beverage, and wellness areas.

Terry, an activist focused on creating a "healthy, equitable, and sustainable food system," is the author of two books, Afro-Vegan and Vegetable Kingdom, both of which were published by Ten Speed. He is currently the chef-in-residence at the Museum of the African Diaspora in San Francisco. 4 Color, Ten Speed said, was born out of Terry's hopes for a more diverse book publishing industry.

Books, whether my own or others, have been an incredibly important and transformative part of my life, helping to expand my mind and nourish my body, said Terry. 4 Color Books will amplify my ability to connect readers with new ideas, stories, and perspectives and to create captivating, inspiring, valuable books. Im excited to realize my vision of a library that reflects the contribution of a diverse and inclusive creative community, and points the way to more mindfulness, health and equity in our individual lives and beyond.

In October, 4 Color will publish Black Food: Stories, Art, and Recipes from Across the African Diaspora, which Terry will edit. Each chapter, the publisher said, "illuminates a part of the Black experience, offering delicious recipes, moving essays, arresting art from such luminaries as Black Panther Party creative director Emory Douglas and American artist Sarina Mantle, and stunning design by the acclaimed George McCalman."

4 Color's first acquisition was the debut cookbook from Top Chef Junior finalist Rahanna Bisseret Martinez.

Ten Speed Press is honored to partner with Bryant on 4 Color Books, and to deepen our longstanding publishing collaboration with such an important leader in building inclusive constituencies and inspiring us all to take better care of ourselves and each other, said Aaron Wehner, executive v-p of Crown Publishing and publisher of Clarkson Potter and Ten Speed Press.
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The disputed property is directly to the south of Klondike Middle School, bound east and west by U.S. 52 and Klondike Road, respectively.
The global technology and media company is made up of a number of brands such as Yahoo and AOL, as well as well as an ad tech and media platform businesses. Verizon Media reported strong, diversified year-over-year revenue growth the past two quarters, driven by ad offerings, consumer ecommerce, subscriptions, betting and strategic partnerships. Yahoo, still one of the best recognised digital media brands in the world and the fourth most visited internet property globally, is said to have become the fastest growing news organization on TikTok.Under the terms of the agreement, Verizon will receive $4.25 billion in cash, preferred interests of $750 million and retain a 10% stake in Verizon Media. The transaction includes the assets of Verizon Media, including its brands and businesses. The transaction is subject to satisfaction of certain closing conditions and expected to close in the second half of 2021 and the new business will be rebranded as Yahoo.The new organisation will continue to be led by CEO Guru Gowrappan. Commenting on the deal and the prospects for the new company he said: the past two quarters of double-digit growth have demonstrated our ability to transform our media ecosystem. With Apollos sector expertise and strategic insight, Yahoo will be well positioned to capitalise on market opportunities, media and transaction experience and continue to grow our full stack digital advertising platform. This transition will help to accelerate our growth for the long- term success of the company.We are big believers in the growth prospects of Yahoo and the macro tailwinds driving growth in digital media, advertising technology and consumer internet platforms, added David Sambur, senior partner and co-head of private equity at Apollo . Apollo has a long track record of investing in technology and media companies, and we look forward to drawing on that experience to help Yahoo continue to thrive.
Apartment buildings in New York City. Cities remain largely popular despite reports to the contrary, and rising mortgage rates won't matter as much for housing affordability as limited supply.
Good morning, its Monday, May 3, 2021. Over the weekend, Illinois Rep. Cheri Bustos became the latest swing district Democrat to announce her impending retirement. Then, Texas Democrats in a district southwest of Fort Worth splintered their vote, thereby botching any chance they had of picking up a House seat in a special election.

In non-political news, a horse named Medina Spirit won the Kentucky Derby, a record seventh time trainer Bob Baffert has won the Run for the Roses. Bafferts horse won in 2020, too, and with the same rider -- John Velazquez -- who was in the winners circle on Saturday. This was the fourth Derby win for Johnny V.

In a moment, Ill have a brief word on another famous jockey who won the famed race 35 years ago today. First, Id direct you to our front page, which aggregates, as it does each day, an array of columns and stories spanning the political spectrum. We also offer a complement of original material from RCPs reporters and contributors, including the following:

* * *

In Memory of Fritz Mondale -- a Political Giant & Loyal Friend. Les Francis shares a few stories about the man he worked for and with.

An Open Letter to Swarthmore President Valerie Smith. As an alum, Peter Berkowitz considers Smiths comments on the Derek Chauvin verdict, including her stated support for the frank conversations she says are needed in providing a liberal education.

The Archaic Rule Threatening Health Care Readiness. At RealClearPolicy, Brian Balfour takes aim at certificate-of-need laws that restrict medical facilities expansion of equipment and services.

China/Russia Military Spending Surpasses U.S. At RealClearDefense, Sen. Jim Inhofe warns that President Bidens budget will only put America further behind its top adversaries.

Jan. 6, Camus, and the Problem With Rebellions. Also at RCD, Bill Bray turns to the French philosopher to put the Capitol assault in perspective.

Fantasy vs. Realism in Two Climate Plans. At RealClearEnergy, Heather Reams compares Joe Bidens proposal to halve U.S. emissions by 2030 with the Growing Climate Solutions Act, which has bipartisan sponsors in Congress.

Exposing White Privilege at the University of Texas-Arlington. At RealClearEducation, Tom Lindsay considers a new curriculum requirement.

What Weve Learned From Irans Saltmen Mummies. RealClearScience editor Ross Pomeroy examines studies of the remains of men who worked at the Chehrabad salt mine, dating to various times between the 6th century B.C. and the 6th century A.D.

* * *

On this day 1986, race rider Bill Shoemaker steered a rangy cold named Ferdinand to victory in the Kentucky Derby. Already a Hall of Famer, The Shoe was 54 years old. He was an inspiration for many reasons besides his age. For one thing, he was diminutive even for a jockey. As turf writer Terry Conway noted, At 4 feet 11 inches tall and 98 pounds, it didnt look like Bill Shoemaker could muscle a few sacks of groceries, let alone control a head-strong thoroughbred a dozen times his weight.

But long before the phrase horse whisperer entered the lexicon, Shoe had a way of gently coaxing top performance from his mounts. Horses would run for him, and I've always wanted to know why, Hall of Famer Eddie Arcaro once told Sports Illustrated. Shoe got them to run without pushing them. He takes such light hold of a horse that he could probably ride with silk threads for reins.

There was adversity, too, which is common for jockeys. Not just the injuries in frightful spills that Johnny Velazquez and almost all the top riders have experienced, but also misjudging the finish line in the Kentucky Derby. Shoemaker did this twice, if you can believe that, and when he stood up in the irons prematurely while aboard Gallant Man in 1957, it cost him and the horse the victory.

He rode competitively for the last time on Feb. 3, 1990, while aboard 7-year-old Patchy Groundfog in an afternoon turf race that Santa Anita Park had billed as The Legend's Last Ride. The legend and his mount were the crowds sentimental betting favorites that day, and even eminent race caller Trevor Denman set aside his normal impartiality and exhorted the rider with a Cmon, Shoe! as the horse took the lead at the top of the stretch.

As I wrote in this space a few years ago, Patchy Groundfog faded to finish fourth that day. But Bill Shoemaker was not the kind of person to just fade away. In retirement, he became a trainer, and was pursuing this vocation on April 8, 1991, when, while driving on a deserted stretch of highway he lost control of his Ford Bronco, which plunged down an embankment. The crash left Shoemaker paralyzed from the neck down.

He resumed training horses in a supervisory role less than six months later, sharing his wisdom from a wheelchair. He retired from training on Nov. 3, 1997, having won $3.7 million in earnings, and died in his sleep at home in San Marino, Calif., on Oct. 12, 2003.

Shoe left us with the memories of his many remarkable rides, his consummate professionalism, and these inspiring words: I never gave up, he told writer Ron Flatter. A few times I didnt think I was going to make it. But I never quit.

Carl M. Cannon

Washington Bureau chief, RealClearPolitics

@CarlCannon (Twitter)

ccannon@realclearpolitics.com
Florida, the countrys third most populous state, would have been the latest to enact consumer protections against Big Datas ability to harvest information about how people conduct their day-to-day lives, including where they shop and eat, what they read and what they share online. The resulting dossier is often bought and sold in a lucrative marketplace that has become an important element of modern commerce.
Athens-Clarke County will be celebrating the Day of Jubilee on May 4 in honor of the day that Union soldiers arrived in Clarke County in 1865 and freed roughly 5,000 enslaved people in the county.

The day received its name from when the newly-emancipated people raised an American flag on the flagpole in front of Athens Town Hall and celebrated their liberty.

The Athens Anti-Discrimination Movement will be hosting the event, and it will start with a vigil and libation ceremony at the University of Georgias Baldwin Hall. The vigil and libation ceremony is to remember the enslaved people whose remains were found close to Baldwin Hall during construction in 2015.

Following the vigil and libation ceremony, there will be a march to the Arch where a rally and celebration will occur. There will be guest speakers and performances at that time as well.

The group will meet at Baldwin Hall at 6 p.m. Anyone who does not want to march is encouraged to meet at the Arch at 7 p.m. Masks and social distancing will be encouraged at the event.
Athens, GA (30605)

Today

Cloudy skies with showers and a possible thunderstorm this afternoon. High 83F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%..

Tonight

Thunderstorms early, then variable clouds overnight with still a chance of showers. Low 68F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%.
Greenville, NC (27833)

Today

Showers this morning then scattered thunderstorms developing during the afternoon hours. High 87F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%..

Tonight

Variable clouds with showers and scattered thunderstorms. Storms more numerous this evening. Low 71F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 60%.
Brattleboro, VT (05301)

Today

Sunny to partly cloudy. Record high temperatures expected. High near 95F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Considerable cloudiness. Low near 70F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph.
The 12th amendment to the U. S. Constitution proscribes a presidential elector from casting a vote for a ticket unless at least one of the candidates is from a different state than the elector. Thus, a Trump-DeSantis ticket would forfeit Floridas 30 electoral votes (enhanced by one through redistricting) unless Republicans can pull off a Constitutional amendment, which is highly unlikely, or one of the GOP tandem moves out of state, as Dick Cheney did, departing Texas for his native Wyoming after his selection as George W. Bushs running mate in 2000. That move was necessary for carrying the Lone Star State that was essential to their victory.
A tract of Candlewood Lakes shore is now among the most expensive acreages in Connecticut outside Gold Coast Fairfield County  and its one that generations of former Girl Scouts throughout the region know extremely well.

The Girl Scouts of Connecticut included Camp Candlewood in a planned sale of three campgrounds in Connecticut, along with Camp Katoya in Milford and Camp Laurel in Lebanon.

Listed for $9.25 million, Camp Candlewood totals 87 acres on the hilly Spear Point neck that separates Candlewood Lake and Squantz Pond, with vistas of water, wooded shores and hills.

Alexander Soule/Hearst Connecticut Media

That makes Camp Candlewood among the priciest vacant parcels in Connecticut of those spanning at least 50 acres.

The response has been overwhelming, said Ryan Cornell, a broker in the Westport office of William Pitt Sothebys handling queries. We have people flying in from all over the country to look at the property in person, in addition to a whole bunch of local people. Weve got national builders who are already evaluating the property, we have local builders and developers who are looking at the property. Weve got two camp [operators], .... and other not-for-profits who want to keep the property not as a camp but as a retreat; and other people who want to conserve and preserve the land as open space.

The Bogus Hill Road parcel includes about 2,000 feet of shoreline, according to listing brokerage William Pitt Sothebys International Realty.

In announcing the decision in March, the Girl Scouts indicated the pandemics impact on property values drove the decision, giving it a chance to cash out and plow the proceeds into improvements at other local camps. As of September 2019 on the eve of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Girl Scouts of Connecticut listed net assets of $10.9 million.

Along with the Connecticut River, Candlewood Lake is Connecticuts premier inland mecca for water recreation, with parks, marinas and private docks dotting its shores that extend 11 miles.

The Girl Scouts purchased the original parcel for Camp Candlewood in 1959, just over a quarter century after the Connecticut Light & Power Co. flooded the valley to power a hydroelectric dam.

William Pitt Sothebys does not rule out buyers surfacing with the goal of maintaining the property as a youth camp, but floats other possibilities  including a gated community of luxury residences, or even a private retreat for a single family or corporate entity.

The most expensive Candlewood Lake home on the market today  across the water on Sail Harbour Drive and Point Hedden  is listed for nearly $4.3 million. Bogus Hill Road has one listing  a deck house built 45 years ago with sweeping views of the lake  priced at $1.5 million.

Other high-priced parcels in Connecticut include a nearly 250-acre property along the Niantic River in East Lyme at $40 million and a 19-acre property on Long Island Sound in Greenwich  the most expensive land listing today in Connecticut  thats listed at $45.8 million.

Three parcels of land are on the market today in Connecticut spanning more than 600 acres, including Litchfields town farm property that went up for sale last October for $10 million, with the owners shaving the price this past March to just below $9 million.

Pat Del Monaco, first selectman of the town of New Fairfield, expressed hope that at least some of the Camp Candlewood property be preserved as open space. But she acknowledged as well the sizable tax revenue the property could generate, and said the spring real estate market remains strong including increased new construction.

Personally I would like to see it remain as a recreational site, Del Monaco said Monday. Its an absolutely beautiful piece of property with all kinds of opportunities for outdoor use. ... We value our lake front and open space here.

Includes prior reporting by Peter Yankowski.

Alex.Soule@scni.com; 203-842-2545; @casoulman
When asked if reaching herd immunity is important, Dr. Tom Balcezak, of Yale New Haven Health, has a simple answer.

If you dont want people to die of this disease, absolutely, he said.

But the question is whether its feasible, despite continued progress with the states vaccine program.

Bridget Lesizza, for example, cannot be vaccinated against COVID, according to her doctors advice.

My cardiologist advised me not to get vaccinated because there wasn't enough research on patients like myself to understand how it would affect my heart, she said.

Four years ago, Lesizza went into cardiac arrest four times in rapid succession. It was later determined that she had brugada syndrome, a disruption of the hearts rhythm and a dangerous fluid buildup around her heart.

They discovered that I had gotten the flu vaccine, said Lesizza, who owns the Reef Shack in Fairfield. With some people when you get vaccinated, you can get a buildup of fluid around the organs.

Shes not against vaccinations. Far from it: She has encouraged her social circle to get vaccinated. We were joking, Get vaccinated for me! Do it for Bridge!

In fact, Lesizza is hoping enough people in Connecticut and the United States get vaccinated against COVID-19 so she does not face the prospect of the rest of her life behind a mask.

Im banking on people getting vaccinated and building up the herd immunity to go on living life without a mask, she said. Emotionally, that would just take too much of a toll on me.

Bridget Lesizza / Contributed photo

Defining immunity

Herd immunity, or population immunity, which UConn Healths David Banach described as a high enough level of immunity to prevent the ongoing transmission of infection, is a somewhat moving target.

I think what we know is that immunity, at least based on neutralizing antibodies, lasts at least six months, said Banach, an infectious disease physician and hospital epidemiologist at UConn Health. We don't know if it's going to be six months, 12 months, 18 months, but it's at least six months.

There are some complicating factors. Some people in and outside Connecticut will refuse to be vaccinated, and children younger than 16 are not yet eligible. Even when you add those who are naturally immune from contracting the virus with those who have been vaccinated, it might not be enough to prevent transmission of the virus.

I think it's going to be difficult for the entire state and the entire country to achieve population-level immunity. And then, you know, we live in a global world, Banach said. I think getting there will be really difficult on the current trajectory.

The number to shoot for is 85 percent. That, according to UConn computational biology professor Pedro Mendes, is how many people must be immune in a given population to prevent transmission of the virus given the new variants that are more infective.

It is now much harder to estimate given that the variants are all mixing up, he said. So it may be prudent to say 80 to 85 percent.

He estimates 46 percent of the state is immune, including those who have been vaccinated and those who have recovered from COVID.

The critical vaccination level to achieve herd immunity is not exactly known, but must be in the range of 75 to 85 percent, Mendes said. Therefore, this is hard to achieve without vaccinating children younger than 16 (which comprise close to 20 percent of the population). Obviously, adults that refuse to take the vaccine will also make it difficult.

Global and local

Stopping or just decreasing viral transmission is important, Balcezak said, to prevent the emergence of new, potentially more infectious and deadly variants. The more opportunity the virus has to replicate the more likely a variant will emerge that evades immunity.

It will eventually make its way to the United States, he said. There is no way you can close your border to these things.

So whether we reach global population immunity depends on what we decide as a country and as a world, Balcezak said.

Banach believes reaching herd immunity on a global scale, or even statewide, is unlikely anytime soon.

Herd immunity, which is typically, classically defined as population-level immunity within a state or country, that is going to be very difficult to achieve, he said.

But on a smaller scale, on a town-wide level, it is theoretically possible that enough people will be vaccinated to limit transmission of the virus.

Within communities, maybe given towns for instance, they may be able to achieve a high enough proportion of immunity, that the risk of spread within that town would be quelled sufficiently, Banach said. There's a huge disparity in vaccine coverage between towns in Connecticut. It's pretty striking that some towns have very high levels of vaccination, over 70 percent, and other towns are much lower.

Community-level immunity would suit Lesizza just fine.

I live my life at the community level, she said. The community level is more important, because thats how we all live.

If not immunity then lower transmission

Success, Banach said, is not an all-or-nothing proposition. Every individual vaccination reduces the virus ability to transmit and replicate.

Being able to decrease transmission doesn't necessarily require that a certain percentage of the population be immune, he said. I think we'll still see benefits in terms of reducing transmission as we increase vaccination. Even if we cant achieve total population immunity, we can still impact transmission by increasing our level of immunity, particularly in certain communities.

Balcezak is a bit more hopeful. We are not finished in terms of our ability to vaccinate, he said.

There are barriers to vaccination, including both hesitancy and access issues, Balcezak said, but there may be encouraging factors as well.

Population immunity will be achievable only if we can get children to be vaccinated, Mendes said, and there has been some progress on that front.

Some colleges are asking students to be vaccinated in order to return to campus in the fall. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is considering proposals to vaccinate children as young as 12. There is ongoing research to examine the possibility of vaccinating children as young as 6 years old against COVID-19.

There are vaccine mandates, but also incentives. Some companies and states are offering incentives to get vaccinated against COVID. In Connecticut, some restaurants are offering free drinks. In West Virginia, the state is offering a $100 savings bond.

It may be a combination of all of those things that gets us over that hump, Balcezak said. I would not be surprised if a year from now we were having a completely different conversation.
HARRISBURG  When Amanda Holt was preparing to vote in 2010, she noticed something odd about the congressional districts within her county.

One small voting precinct of about 2,000 people in Lehigh County was in a different U.S. House district than the rest of the countys precincts, and she couldnt understand why.

As her curiosity grew, she noticed other oddities  a township randomly carved out of a congressional district, counties that could have fit into entire state Senate districts but were instead split between several  that she thought didnt follow the constitutional rules for redistricting, the once-in-a-decade process of redrawing political maps.

I thought maybe they werent aware the other way is possible that would allow them to avoid all the oddities, all the divisions I was seeing, she said.

Using a simple Excel spreadsheet and census population data, Holt, a piano teacher and data research contractor, found she could create much more compact, contiguous, and equal-sized districts that didnt split nearly as many localities  all of which the state constitution required.

So why couldnt the most powerful leaders in the state legislature do it?

You dont really know why, because they dont explain why they are departing from these traditional redistricting principles, she said. So its just left up to the imagination.

State politicians who draw congressional districts, as well as their own, every 10 years leave a lot to the imagination, especially when they dont have to tell you why a majority-Latino neighborhood is mysteriously carved out of an otherwise compact district, or why a college campus is split between three districts.

In reality, whichever party is in control of the process can draw districts to ensure or grow its majority and set government agendas for years.

Gerrymandering  when a maps district boundaries are manipulated to benefit one political party over another  is often used to describe any number of abuses that occur in redistricting. A wonky-looking district can be thought of as gerrymandered, as can a district that splits communities without explanation.

It can be difficult to prove, legally. Theres no one standard to determine whether a map has been gerrymandered, and mapmakers rarely admit to doing it.

But it has been possible to demonstrate in a handful of states, including Pennsylvania, where the state Supreme Court in 2018 found Republicans in charge maximized the number of congressional seats for their party while disadvantaging Democrats. Members of that party won just five of the 18 seats with the Republican-drawn map, despite winning slightly more than half of the statewide vote.

We showed that the features of the map could not be explained by anything other than partisan manipulation, said Ben Geffen, an attorney with the Public Interest Law Center who worked on the case.

Pennsylvanias state House and Senate maps, which were drawn by Republicans and approved by the state Supreme Court in 2012, havent faced the same partisan scrutiny. Still, experts say some of the same computer-based techniques used in the 2018 legal case show the maps skew toward Republicans, and it is unlikely that happened organically.

When lawmakers go back to the drawing board later this year to make Pennsylvanias new maps, experts and analysts will apply these same tests to evaluate whether there are any partisan asymmetries that cant be explained by chance.

Efficiency gap

If the goal of partisan gerrymandering is for one party to do everything possible to secure as many seats as it can, the way to do that is by packing and cracking districts. Packing crams voters of the rival party into a few districts to give that party overwhelming wins. Cracking spreads members of the rival party across a large number of districts so their votes dont matter as much.

A concept called the efficiency gap, developed by Harvard Law professor Nick Stephanopoulos and political scientist Eric McGhee, measures the extent that districts have been cracked or packed by looking at the number of collective wasted votes in each district.

Any vote that is above what a candidate needs to win is an extra, or wasted, vote. Likewise, any vote for the candidate who ends up losing is also considered wasted.

The efficiency gap takes the difference between the parties respective wasted votes and divides that by the total number of votes cast.

It captures, in a single tidy number, all of the packing and cracking decisions that go into a district plan, Stephanopoulos and McGhee wrote in a 2014 working paper.

In all Pennsylvania House and Senate districts that were drawn in 2012, Democrats had between 1.1 million and 1.2 million more wasted votes than Republicans. The more wasted votes a party has, the more likely that party is to have been disadvantaged.

U.S. Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts has called the efficiency gap sociological gobbledygook, a phrase embraced by The Republican State Leadership Committee. The national organization, which works to elect GOP candidates at the state level, claims Republicans win more seats than the total vote share because they have stronger candidates and policies that appeal to voters.

While the efficiency gap has been used in legal arguments where federal courts, including in North Carolina and Wisconsin, have struck down maps, the U.S. Supreme Court has sidestepped questions about what standards, if any, should be used to determine partisan gerrymandering.

Lopsided wins

Another way to measure the extent of cracking and packing is to test whether one partys wins are more lopsided than the other. In a scenario in which the two parties vote shares are similar, both parties win seats by comparable margins overall, said Ari Goldbloom-Helzner, computational research analyst with The Princeton Gerrymandering Project. Picture a mix of strongly partisan, generally reliable, and swing districts.

But in a gerrymandered plan, one party easily wins by large margins, suggesting that its winning districts that are packed with its own voters, while the other party wins more districts by smaller margins. If lopsided districts are unlikely to occur by chance alone  unique geography, candidate preference, and some natural randomness aside  that may indicate there was intentional gerrymandering.

In 2018, Republicans running for state Senate won their districts with an average of 64.4% of the vote, while Democrats won their districts with an average of 69.9% of the vote.

The Princeton Gerrymandering Project used a well-known statistics tool called the t-test and found the chance that this 5% difference would have arisen by nonpartisan processes alone is almost zero.

Partisan bias

Partisan bias asks how different the parties respective seat shares would be if Democrats and Republicans each hypothetically received 50% of the statewide vote. It looks at whether each party is winning its fair share of seats, or if one party is more easily and unfairly winning extra seats.

IIf Democrats and Republicans in the state Senate each got the same total number of votes across the 50 districts, Republicans would win 9.1% extra seats, showing the plan is skewed to favor Republicans. The same goes for state House districts, which would give Republicans an extra 8.2% seats in a hypothetically tied race.

Mean-median bias

This test looks at the gap between a partys median vote share across all districts and its average vote share. When a partys median vote share is much higher than its mean vote share, the map is skewed in favor of that party.

The median Republican vote share for the state House map is 6.8% higher than its mean vote share. In the state Senate map, Republicans median vote share is 3.4% higher than the mean Republican vote share.

Unintentional gerrymandering

None of the tests can be used alone to indicate gerrymandering, Goldbloom-Helzner said.

The underlying assumption is that both sides are treated similarly, he said. The tests are really saying, Are the two sides being treated similarly or can we show that they are being treated significantly different from one another?

While scholars and redistricting experts who rely on these tests have found, in most instances, the party in control of redistricting has a partisan advantage in the maps, its not the only factor influencing the political outcome.

A concept known as unintentional gerrymandering, or self-sorting, argues that substantial bias can also be found in a map because like-minded people naturally cluster in certain areas.

Two professors, Jowei Chen and Jonathan Rodden, found the highest levels of map bias against Democrats occurred in states where the partys voters were concentrated in urban areas. Republicans are typically spread out over rural areas and suburbs, so less of their votes are wasted and the party wins districts by narrower margins.

The academics also found across states generally, the average Republican voter is more likely to live in a mixed neighborhood with more voters from both major political parties, while the average Democratic voter is more likely to live in a Democratic-leaning neighborhood.

This natural self-sorting concept has been used by attorneys to defend maps perceived as gerrymandered. They argue that because Democrats are clustered in cities, Republican mapmakers cannot be held responsible for large gaps between the percentage of overall votes won and the percentage of seats won. They claim political geography can fully explain the underrepresentation of Democrats in a legislature.

Next steps

The redistricting process is now underway in Harrisburg.

This year, Republican leadership will draw a new congressional map for Pennsylvania, which will lose one of its 18 districts because of sluggish population growth. But unlike a decade ago, their map will need the approval of a Democrat: Gov. Tom Wolf. A veto from Wolf could send the map to the Democratic-led state Supreme Court, which ruled repeatedly against the GOP in election- and pandemic-related cases last year.

The justices will also pick the chair of the Legislative Reapportionment Commission  which draws the state House and Senate maps  after its members deadlocked on someone to serve as the likely tie-breaker vote.

Holt  who served on Wolfs Redistricting Reform Commission after challenging the states 2011 House and Senate maps in court  said shes again paying attention to whether the mapmakers are held accountable through measurable standards, especially when it comes to minimizing the number of communities that are divided.

The places in which they live need to stay together so they can have the strongest voice possible for the next 10 years, she said.
POTTSVILLE  Destiny Duckett wept while holding a box, covered by a tiny shirt and pair of pants, containing the ashes of her infant son as his alleged killer was seen on a video screen during his preliminary hearing Monday.

Cordell John Thomas, 23, of 316 Pine St., Reading, appeared by videoconference before Magisterial District Judge James K. Reiley on charges that he caused fatal injuries to 3-month-old Mateo Thomas by violently shaking the baby in September at a home at 616 Oak St. in the city. Reiley bound the charges to county court, where Thomas can plead guilty or plead innocent and seek a trial.

Pottsville police Detective Joseph Welsh, who filed the charges, was the only witness called by First Assistant District Attorney Michael Stine during the 20-minute proceeding. Thomas attorney, Todd A. Mays, of Reading, did not call any witnesses.

Welsh said Pottsville police and Schuylkill EMS were called to the home on Sept. 24 for a report of a child not breathing and subsequently rushed the boy to Lehigh Valley Hospital-Schuylkill E. Norwegian Street. From there the child was taken by helicopter to Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest, Allentown, where he died from the injuries, Welsh said.

He said Dr. Debra D. Esernio-Jenssen, a member of the child protection team at Cedar Crest, determined the boy suffered serious traumatic brain injuries.

A forensic autopsy completed by the Lehigh County Coroners Office determined the cause of death was blunt force injuries to the head and ruled the manner of death a homicide, Welsh told the court.

The detective said he later interviewed Thomas, who admitted being alone with the child for about two hours before police and EMS were called because Duckett had a doctors appointment.

In paperwork filed with Reiley at the time of Thomas arrest on Jan. 21, Welsh said Esernio-Jensses concluded that the child was neurologically devastated, had no specific movement and only responded to deep pain.

Esernio-Janssen determined the child had injuries consistent with abusive head trauma and that he was the victim of acceleration and deceleration forces caused by violent shaking.

After questioning Welsh, Stine said the commonwealth believes it had proved a prima facie case because Thomas was alone with the child at the time the injuries occurred. He called Thomas actions a malicious act that resulted in the death of another person.

Reiley agreed and said prosecutors presented enough evidence to send all of the charges against Thomas to Schuylkill County Court. He faces one felony count each of third-degree murder and involuntary manslaughter; two counts of aggravated assault; and one misdemeanor count each of simple assault, recklessly endangering another person and endangering the welfare of children.

Mays offered no closing statements.

I have no argument to make for the purpose of todays proceedings. I will make arguments at a later date, he said.

Thomas remains in Schuylkill County Prison where he has been held without bail since the time of his arrest earlier this year.
Is Sputnik Russias political weapon? By Jon Henley View(s): View(s):

Russias Sputnik V vaccine has yet to win EU regulatory approval and is likely to play little part in the blocs rollout, but it has already achieved what some observers say is one of its objectives  sowing division among, and within, member states.

Sputnik V has become a tool of soft power for Russia, said Michal Baranowski, a fellow with a US thinktank, the German Marshall Fund of the United States. Its planted its flag on the vaccine and the political goal of its strategy is to divide the west.

Sputniks makers say the shot has been approved in 61 countries and exported to 40. But safety concerns linger, and many EU leaders are sceptical of Russias intentions when it has administered fewer than 19m doses to its population of 144 million.

Amid growing European concern over repeated Russian cyber-attacks against the west, the Kremlins treatment of the opposition leader Alexei Navalny and escalating tensions on the Ukraine border, EU observers say Moscow is deploying Sputnik as another weapon of geopolitical influence.

Russias low vaccination rate just doesnt tally with it having a supposedly cheap, easy-to-make and effective vaccine, one EU diplomat said. Either Moscows being altruistic, which seems unlikely. Or its prioritising geopolitics over Russians needs.

So far, only two EU member states, Hungary and Slovakia, have broken with the blocs collective approach by ordering the shot, and only Hungary has used it  although Bulgaria is about to open talks, Austria has said it is ready to buy 1m doses and Germany is negotiating for 30m.

Others are decidedly less enthusiastic, even frankly hostile. Frances foreign minister, Jean-Yves Le Drian, has described the shot as more a means of propaganda and aggressive diplomacy than of solidarity and assistance.

The Prime Minister of Lithuania, Ingrida Simonyt, tweeted in February that Russias president, Vladimir Putin, saw the shot not so much as a cure for the Russian people as another hybrid weapon to divide and rule.

After a lamentably slow early rollout that has only recently started to pick up speed, meanwhile, the European commission says Sputnik V is unlikely to play a part in the EUs rollout simply because it will not be available in sufficient quantities until the end of 2021, when most Europeans will already be vaccinated.

Thierry Breton, the commissioner in charge of vaccine procurement, has said the European Medicines Agency (EMA) is evaluating Sputnik but still lacks essential data, while factories in Italy, Spain and Germany that have been named as putative manufacturing sites would take months to come on stream.

Hitting back via its official Sputnik V Twitter account, Russia has denied the vaccine is a political tool, or that safety or production capacity are potential issues. Politicisation of vaccines is unethical and costing lives, read a typical recent tweet. Sputnik is undoubtedly one of the best vaccines in the world, said another.

The account has accused EU officials of bias and fake storytelling and sought to play down the safety concerns that have plagued other viral vector jabs such as AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson.

Biased western media cannot forever ignore real data from the real world that shows Sputnik V is safer and more efficient than mRNA vaccines, the account said, accusing Breton of continually misleading the public over production capacity.

An EU study released this week accused Russian and Chinese media of systematically seeking to sow mistrust in western vaccines by sensationalising safety concerns, making unfounded links between shots and deaths in Europe, and promoting Russian and Chinese vaccines as superior.

But whether or not the EMA approves Sputnik V and whether or not it ever arrives in sufficient numbers, observers argue it has already done significant damage, with EU national and regional leaders leveraging it for their own political ends.

In post-communist Europe, Hungarys Brussels-baiting leader, Viktor Orban, who has long fostered close relations with Russia, has gleefully bypassed both the blocs joint procurement programme and EMA authorisation to buy 2m doses, while outside the EU, Serbia has become a champion vaccinator thanks to Sputnik.

In western Europe, regional politicians have also sought to score points against national governments through Sputnik deals: the conservative leader of Madrid in Socialist-led Spain; the far-right president of the Provence-Alpes-Cote dAzur region in France; the opposition Democratic party leader of Italys Campania region.

In Germany, where federal elections in September have turned the countrys early shortage of vaccines into a particularly burning issue nationwide with politicians of all colours under heavy pressure to find solutions, three states including Bavaria have either struck or are negotiating Sputnik deals.

The federal health minister, Jens Spahn, has said Berlin is in talks on a national deal but stressed any rollout will depend on EMA approval and Sputnik V supplies would have to arrive within the next couple of month or be too late.

Early western doubts about Sputnik Vs efficacy after Russia approved it last August  without the results of full clinical trials  were partly dispelled by a peer-reviewed late-stage trial published in the Lancet in February which showed it was almost 92% effective.

Moscows Gamaleya Institute laboratory and the Russian Direct Investment Fund, the sovereign wealth fund backing the shot, have since said scientists had found Sputnik V 97.6% effective in real-world data from 3.8 million people.

The EMAs director, Emer Cooke, however, confirmed last week the agencys approval process, which began late because of a lack of manufacturer data, was really at a very early stage, saying the agency had yet to start reviewing any real-world safety records, for example on potential side-effects of the vaccine.

Among other things, the agency is looking into whether clinical trials met so-called good clinical practice standards after some soldiers and state employees Russia said took part in them reportedly claimed they had been pressured into doing so.

Courtesy The Guardian, UK
For nearly 100 years it has rested beside the Mount Carbon Arch Street bridge like a ghost keeping watch over its heir.

Yet, in the near future, it will have a new life.

At a recent Executive Schuylkill Roundtable hosted by the Northeastern Pennsylvania Manufacturers and Employers Association, Schuylkill Municipal Authority Executive Director Patrick M. Caulfield announced that PennDOT will move the abandoned bowstring truss bridge, which spans the Schuylkill River across the street from the Goodfellas Cafe, to the Coal Creek Commerce Center in Saint Clair to serve as a foot bridge on a walking trail.

Its going to promote quality of life in Schuylkill County to our residents, he said.

When it was built in January 1894, the bridge was the only route for highway traffic to cross the river between Schuylkill Haven and Pottsville. Wagons, buggies, trolleys and foot traffic heading north would pass through the original double passageway Mount Carbon Arch just to the south of the current underpass.

As automobiles became more common, the area became notorious for traffic accidents and, in 1924-26, county, state and railroad authorities built the current underpass and the double arch highway bridge now in use. In the 1950s, Route 122, now 61, was routed over the foot of Sharp Mountain to Claude A. Lord Boulevard, its current route. A section of the old arch is still used to unload grain from railroad cars, but the rest is now walled off.

The old bridge became a footbridge for many years, but now the wooden flooring is long gone, a single piece of wooden railing being the only non-metal part remaining on the structure. The municipal authority owns what remains of the structure, which carries a 12-inch water main.

Although it is mostly unnoticed, obscured by bushes during the warm months, the span has recently been found to have historical value, and PennDOT officials approached the authority expressing interest in it. In an email Friday, Caufield explained further.

PennDOT is relocating the bridge as part of their project to restore it as it is one of two remaining bowstring truss bridges in PA, and on the National Historic Bridge list, he wrote.

Caulfield said that PennDOT is developing a program through its Multimodel Transportation Division in which some funds PennDOT set aside for demolishing one historic bridge are reallocated to refurbish an existing bridge on the list.

In our case, the bridge over the Lehigh River between Cementon and Northampton is being replaced, along with another bridge in Berks County. Funds from these projects are allocated to the refurbishment of the Mount Carbon Bridge, he said. We were approached by PennDOT and then we suggested consideration of the new location on another project that we are working on with the Schuylkill River Greenway, the Frackville/St. Clair Trail.

At the original location, PennDOT will pay for a new water line to go under the river.

The Saint Clair section of the Schuylkill River Trail will be extended to cross the bridge at Terry Rich Boulevard on its way to Frackville.
100 years ago  1921

The three-week mission at St. Patricks Church, Pottsville, was opened on Sunday at the late Mass, with Father Gallagher in charge of the official opening.

75 years ago  1946

Approximately 100 members of the Anthracite Section of the American Institute of Mining and Mechanical Engineering inspected the refuge disposal transport system at Oak Hill Colliery prior to the annual spring dinner meeting of the AIMME held in Pottsville.

50 years ago  1971

A Pottsville resident, Georgene Brown, 20, was selected Miss Congeniality by 20 other participants in the Miss Pennsylvania Pageant held Friday evening in Washington, Pa.

25 years ago  1996

Pennsylvania Power & Light Co. has lost one battle in a multi-front war to ensure it lives up to its obligations to the cogeneration industry. Schuylkill Energy Resources Inc. has convinced a judge in Allentown to stop PP&L from unilaterally reducing what it pays for power generated at the Yatesville cogenerating plant. Lehigh County Judge Thomas A. Wallitsch found Schuylkill Energy Resources Inc. will suffer irreparable harm if PP&L is not prevented from reducing its payments.
Pottsville, PA (17901)

Today

Mostly cloudy skies this morning followed by thunderstorms during the afternoon. High 88F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%..

Tonight

Overcast with showers at times. Low 67F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%.
POTTSVILLE  In an effort to boost the fortunes of Schuylkill County Joe Zerbey Airport, the commissioners forgave an interest payment that would have been due Saturday from the airport authority.

The commissioners hope forgiveness of the $5,056 payment will enable the authority to continue on the path to financial stability.

The long-range plan is for the airport to be self-sustaining, commissioners Chairman Barron L. Hetherington said Wednesday.

Commissioner George F. Halcovage Jr. also hopes the airport will be able to pay its own way soon.

In the future, I would hope such interest payments can be deferred instead of forgiven, he said.

In Foster Township off Route 901 near Highridge Business Park, the airport is popular with executives of the companies that have facilities in the park.

County Administrator Gary R. Bender said the airport received a $400,000 loan for a new hangar, which has been built. He said a business park is needed at the airport to allow it to thrive, but obstacles to such a park exist.

The water and sewer (lines have) to be brought into the area, along with improved internet service, Bender said.

Also, the commissioners voted to apply to the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency for a $135,000 grant. The Drug & Alcohol Program will submit the application. Its for drug and alcohol treatment as an alternative to imprisonment, Bender said.

In another matter, the commissioners approved a $36,080 appropriation to the prison for a fingerprinting machine.

Bender said the machine will be installed at the prison and enable corrections personnel to fingerprint people there instead of bringing them to the courthouse.

In other business, the commissioners:

 Approved one-year purchase of service agreements with Childrens Home of York, York, for foster care placement and independent living programs; and Woods Services Inc., Langhorne, for residential placement and one-to-one aide services.

 Approved two-year purchase of service agreements with Diversified Treatment Alternatives, Milton, for residential treatment, foster care, home room and board maintenance, and inpatient diagnostic evaluations; and Lifespan Family Services, Punxsutawney, for foster care placements.

 Approved five repository sales conducted by the Tax Claim Bureau.

 Extended until May 15 two contracts with Mahanoy City, one for East End Park and the other for Kaier Park. Bender said the work at each is just about finished and the extensions are no cause for concern.

A lot of contracts got extended because of COVID, he said.

 Appointed Edward J. Winkelbauer, of Orwigsburg, to the board of the Schuylkill County Housing Authority to fill the unexpired term of John A. Shandor, of Saint Clair, who is resigning, effective Friday.

 Approved the as is sale of 22 surplus vehicles, 18 to Doug Naftzinger, two to Jeff Dunkel and one each to Alert Fire Company of Saint Clair and Robert Carl.

 Appointed Christian Kimmel, of Pottsville, as election technology coordinator for the county Election Bureau, effective Monday. The salary board approved his hourly salary of $19.1511.

 Appointed Edward Smith, of Berwick, as a full-time corrections officer, effective Friday. The salary board approved his hourly salary of $21.7486.

 Transferred Matthew Donnelly, of Ashland, to full-time corrections officer from part-time corrections officer. The salary board approved his hourly salary of $21.7486.

 Appointed Susan Baransky, of Cumbola, as an office support/secretarial employee of the Human Resources Office, effective May 10. The salary board approved her hourly salary of $13.7805.
Wonder Woman actress Gal Gadot is making headlines after announcing that she was pregnant with her third girl child. The actress has a string of successful movies under her belt with the DC movies turning her into a feminist icon with Wonder Woman. But did you know that before becoming an actress, Gal Gadot participated in a beauty pageant and competed against a Bollywood actress?

Gal Gadot in Miss Universe pageant

At the age of 18-years, the Is Israeli actress competed in the Miss Universe pageant in the year 2004. According to a Hindustan Times reports, the actress competed in the same year as Aashiq Banaya Aapne actress Tanushree Dutta. After entering the pageant, the Fast and Furious actress served her country in the military at the age of 20 for two years.

Tanushree Dutta and Gal Gadot competed against each other at the pageant when the former actress was only 20-years-old. Tanushree Dutta managed to place herself in the top 10 positions of the Miss Universe Pageant. Gal Godot did not have much luck in the competition as she could make it to the top 15. Though she failed at Miss Universe Pageant, Gal Gadot was crowned at Miss Israel in the same year.

About Gal Gadot's movies

The Israeli beauty took up her career as an actress and essayed the role of Giselle in the Fast and Furious franchise. She came to the media's attention after bagging the role of Wonder Wonder in Zack Snyder's Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice in 2016. Later on, the actress signed a deal of three movies with Warner Bros.

The actress has acted in movies such as Knight and Day, Kicking Out Shoshana, Criminal, Keeping Up with the Joneses, and Triple 9. According to the reports from Deadline, the actress is set to appear in two movies, Death on the Nile and Red Notice, in the years 2021 and 2022 respectively. The actress has also been updating her fans on her health through her social media platform and recently, celebrated her 36th birthday with her friends and family.

Promo Pic Credit: Gal Gadot IG

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Hollywood star Gal Gadot celebrated her 36th birthday on April 30. The actress took to her Instagram handle on May 1 to thank everyone who was with her on the day including fans who stormed her social media accounts with sweet birthday wishes. Gal Gadot seemingly kept her party close and intimate and celebrated it with her husband and a few of her friends. She also included photos from her intimate birthday party in the post and shared them with a caption about being grateful.

In the photos, Gal Gadot can be seen laughing amid an array of balloons. There are also photos of Gadot with her friends who attended the party, as well as a picture of her birthday cake. The post also included a photo of Gal, just as she's about to blow the candles on her birthday cake.

The Wonder Woman actress can be seen wearing a black sleeve cut dress. Along with the pictures, Gal also wrote about how grateful she was to have such "wonderful souls" around her. She wrote, "I'm so grateful to be able to celebrate my birthday with the people I love. Now more than ever I understand how valuable they are and how much of our happiness is affected by the people in our lives. I am a very lucky girl to have so many wonderful souls around me."

Gadot also thanked her fans saying, "I Thank you all for the warm wishes and sending lots of love back at you". Take a look at Gal Gadot's birthday post below.

Gal Gadot on the work front

On the work front, Gal Gadot was last seen in The Snyder Cut or Zack Snyder's Justice League in which she reprised her role as Wonder Woman. The actress will soon be seen in an upcoming film, titled Death on the Nile. The film is an upcoming mystery thriller film directed by Kenneth Branagh, with a screenplay by Michael Green.

The film will be based on the 1937 novel of the same name, by Agatha Christie. The story follows Hercule Poirot (a fictional Belgian detective appearing as the main lead in many of Christie's novels), who investigates the murder of a young heiress while on vacation in the Nile.

The film will star Kenneth Branagh, Gal Gadot, Tom Bateman, and Rose Leslie in the lead roles and will release sometime in 2022.

Image source - Gal Gadot's Instagram

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Actor Ben Affleck was recently spotted as he visited former girlfriend Jennifer Lopez at her home in Los Angeles. The two are known to be friends even now and have often been spotted spending time with each other. Scroll along to know more about Jennifer and Bens meeting.

Ben Affleck visited Jennifer Lopez at her LA home

A source who is friends with both JLo and Ben Affleck told Page Six, that the two have always been friends, who often met each other through the years. The two made headlines after they exchanged rings in 2002 and were often shipped as Bennifer, by the media. They have also starred together in the movies Jersey Girl and Gigli.

Ben and Jennifer had their wedding planned in 2003, but they delayed it for later. However, in January 2004, the former couple officially parted ways, but are known for staying friends even after they broke up. The two have also spoken the best about each other in various interviews, one of which was Afflecks Instyle interview where he appreciated JLos professionalism and how she put all the required efforts into doing something.

As per the publication, the security picks Ben Affleck up in Jennifers white SUV and then drops him off after spending a few hours at the actors place. The outlet also mentioned that the actor has visited JLos Bel-Air home thrice since she has returned from the Dominican Republic where she was shooting for her movie Shotgun Wedding. Affleck was first spotted being dropped at the Hotel Bel-Air, which is close to the songstress $28 million mansion on April 22, by a car in which JLo was spotted after a while.

After which, on April 28, Ben Affleck was spotted outside Lopez home and then on April 29, he was seen arriving at the earlier mentioned hotel and then was picked up by the same white SUV, which took him to JLos mansion, which he left some 3.5 hours later. The outlet has reported that a day after meeting Affleck, JLo also met former partner Alex Rodriguez for dinner at Hotel Bel-Air. Jennifer Lopez and Alex recently made headlines as they announce their split after a 4 year-long relationship.

Here is how fans are reacting to the news;

Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez are secretly seen each other?

Its like 2003 all over again. Can we also bring back Von Dutch trucker caps, True Religion jeans, and Ed Hardy T-shirts? #BenandJen #Bennifer #JLo #BenAffleck  Dennis Depew (@DDepew1975) May 1, 2021

Bennifer - I did not realize how much I need this in my life again #Bennifer #JLo #BenAffleck  Sandra Wheeler  (@Disneywheels) May 2, 2021

I am here for #bennifer part 2: the sequel   Sarah Cottier (@sassyc_001) May 2, 2021

If #Bennifer is actually a thing my whole world will be made  Alyssa  (@alyssaa_delgado) May 2, 2021

Promo Image Source: Shutterstock

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The historical drama, The Last Kingdom is now set to wrap up after its upcoming fifth season releases on the platform. Actor Alexander Dreymon who plays Uhtred on the Netflix Original recently opened up about playing the role and also revealed that he will be taking the directors seat for a while in the next season. Find out more details about the fifth and final season of The Last Kingdom.

The Last Kingdom on Netflix to end after its fifth season

The historical drama, which is currently being filmed in Hungary, Budapest for its fifth season will be coming to an end after having a six-year-long run. The upcoming season will have 10 episodes that will follow the adventures of the Uhtred of Bebbanburg, a Saxon born warrior who was raised as a Dane in ninth and tenth-century England. The show is bankrolled by Carnival Films, with NBCUniversal Global Distribution, distributing it.

The show is an adaptation of the ninth and tenth books from the best-selling novel series The Saxon Stories, which are authored by Bernard Cornwell. Talking about portraying the character, according to PTI, Alexander Dreymon said, Playing Uhtred for 5 seasons has been a wonderful journey. And I'm truly grateful to have been given the opportunity to direct. In doing so, I came to fully appreciate the spectacular talent and skill of our cast and crew even more. I can't wait to share it with our fans, without whom none of this would be possible. The actor will also be at the helm of one of the episodes, in the final season.

The show also has Andy Hay, Paul Wilmshurst, Anthony Philipson and Jon East on board as directors. The Last Kingdom has Martha Hillier as the scribe, with Gareth Neame and Nigel Marchant as executive producers. The fourth season of the show also featured Emily Cox, Ian Hart, Eliza Butterworth, Arnas Fedaravicius, Mark Rowley, Millie Brady, Timothy Innes, Eva Birthistle, Jeppe Beck Laursen, Toby Regbo, Finn Elliot, Ruby Hartley and James Northcote, playing pivotal roles. Patrick Robinson, Sonya Cassidy and Harry Gilby have also been roped in to play pivotal roles.

Promo Image Courtesy: The Last Kingdom's Instagram

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Hollywood actor Kenya Moore is known for her films like Waiting to Exhale, Deliver Us from Evaa and shows like The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and The Real Housewives. Moore also has her own haircare brand and is often seen giving fitness tips. Here is Kenya Moore's net worth (2021) and other important details about the actor cum entrepreneur.

A look at Kenya Moore's net worth (2021)

Kenya Moore rose to fame after winning the Miss USA after which she participated in the Miss Universe pageant where she was among the top 6 contestants. According to Celebrity Net worth, her net worth is an estimated $800,000. She is the fourth richest amongst all the Housewives on The Real Housewives of Atlanta. For those wondering what is Kenya Moore's husband's net worth? As compared to Kenya's net worth, Marc Dali's net worth is $35 million.

About Kenya Moore's films and shows

Kenya was a model for several beauty brands after participating in beauty pageants. She appeared in several television shows like The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Sparks, Smart Guy, Video Soul Living Single, Damon, Meet The Browns, Homeboys in Outer Space, In the House, The Steve Harvey Show, Martin, Nubian Goddess, Men, The Jamie Foxx Show, The Parent 'Hood, Women & Dogs, The Parkers, Under One Roof, and Girlfriends.

The actor was also seen in music videos like Money Ain't a Thang like Jermaine Dupri, Street Dreams by Nas, Shai's I Don't Wanna Be Alone. She was also seen in Tupac's Temptations. She also appeared on the cover page of Glamour, Seventeen, Ebony, and Essence magazines. The actor made her film debut with Waiting to Exhale and was seen in films like Senseless, Trois, Deliver Us from Eva, Brothers in Arms, Cloud 9, I Know Who Killed Me and Trapped: Haitian Nights. She was later seen in Bravo's The Real Housewives of Atlanta and was a cast of The Celebrity Apprentice 7. She is all set to feature in The Real Housewives All-Stars.

Other ventures of Kenya Moore

Kenya published her book Game, Get Some!: What Women Really Want in 2007. She also directed and produced her film Trapped: Haitian Nights. In 2013, she released her own fitness video titled Kenya Moore: Booty Boot Camp. She turned into an entrepreneur in 2014 after launching her own hair care product brand Moore Hair.

Disclaimer: The above net worth information is sourced from various websites/ media reports. The website does not guarantee a 100% accuracy of the figures.

Promo Image source: Kenya Moore's Instagram

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As India continues to battle against the COVID-19 pandemic, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Karambir Singh called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to brief him about the initiatives taken by the Indian Navy to battle the pandemic. As per the statement, PM Modi reviewed all the initiatives taken by the Navy to assist the countrymen in these tough times.

Coronavirus: Chief of Naval Staff calls on PM Modi today

The Chief of Naval Staff Admiral informed PM Modi that the Indian Navy has reached out to all state administrations and have offered to help in terms of hospitals, beds, transportations and other such things. He also apprised the Prime Minister about Naval hospitals being opened for use of civilians in various cities across the country. Admiral Karambir Singh also informed that the medical personnel in the Navy have been deployed at various locations across the country to manage COVID-19 duties.

Stating that the Naval personnel as being provided Battle Field Nursing Assistant Training, the Chief of Naval Staff further mentioned that the Navy is helping to increase the availability of medical oxygen in places like Lakshadweep as well as Andaman & Nicobar Islands. He also apprised PM Modi that the Indian Navy is transporting Oxygen Containers as well as other supplies from Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait & Singapore to India.

Rajnath Singh reviews efforts of Armed Forces to battles pandemic

Earlier on May 1, the Defence Minister of India Rajnath Singh chaired a meeting, in which he reviewed the efforts of the Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces in supporting the civil administration in the fight against the second wave of COVID-19. In the meeting, Rajnath Singh was briefed about the many initiatives being taken by the forces, which includes the Indian Army setting up more than 720 beds in various States, 500-bed hospital being set up in Lucknow that will be functional in a brief time of two to three days, and another hospital being set up in Varanasi which will be functional by May 5, both by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

Besides, setting up beds in hospitals, he was also given a brief on steps to increase staff in hospitals. He was further informed that 600 additional doctors are being mobilised through special measures such as calling to duty those who had retired in the last few years while the Indian Navy has deployed 200 Battle Field Nursing Assistants to assist in various hospitals.

It was added that the National Cadet Corps (NCC) has also deployed 300 cadets and staff at various locations in Maharashtra, Uttarakhand and Haryana. He was also informed about the telemedicine service, to be operated by health veterans, that will begin soon to provide consultation to those patients who remain at home.

As per government data, while transport aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF) carried out several sorties from Singapore, Bangkok, Dubai and within the country, the Indian Navy dispatched four ships  two to the Middle East and two to South East Asia  to transport filled oxygen containers to India. As of May 01, 2021, IAF carried out 28 sorties from abroad, airlifting 47 oxygen containers with 830 MT of capacity, while from within the country, it carried out 158 sorties, airlifting 109 containers with 2,271 MT capacity. The Navy and the Air Force have also supplied nearly 500 portable oxygen cylinders from their stores to various civilian hospitals.

Coronavirus Situtation in India

As the world continues to battles against the Coronavirus pandemic, India so far has registered over 1,99,25,604 positive case,s out of which, 1,62,93,003 have successfully recovered and 2,18,959 have died. As per the latest reports from MoHFW, in the past 24 hours, 3,68,147 new cases, 3,00,732 fresh recoveries and 3,417 deaths have been reported. Currently, the total number of active COVID-19 patients in the country is 34,13,642.

(Image: www.pib.gov.in/)
Norwegian Air Shuttle announced this Monday, 3 April, its intention to cut 1,191 workers from its bases in Spain in the coming days, which would affect 85 per cent of the total crew, the USO union has claimed.

The company says the restructuring process is being carried out in "each and every one" of the markets where it operates, which are the Scandinavian countries, the United Kingdom, the United States, Italy and France, as well as Spain.

The company's intention, as it announced in January, is to cease long-distance operations and downsize short-haul flights considerably.

Specifically, during 2021 it expects to serve the short-haul market with about 50 aircraft, which represents less than a third of the 156 with which it closed 2019  some 37 long-haul and 119 single-aisle aircraft  and to increase the number to 70 throughout 2022.

With these cuts, the company would stop operating long-haul from Barcelona, as well as "brutally cut" short-haul operations, according to the USO union in a statement.

Norwegian has announced its intention to close three of the five short-haul bases that remained in Spain, specifically Barcelona, Gran Canaria and Tenerife South.

Norwegian would maintain its two operational bases in Malaga and Alicante, although with only one aircraft in each of them this year. The group's management confirms that it will maintain these two bases during 2021 and 2022, although the schedule for reopening these bases is subject to the rate of lifting of government restrictions on travel and the speed of reopening of the different European economies.

The company estimates that, for the summer of 2022 and, based upon having six aircraft based in Spain (three in Alicante and three in Malaga), it will have a need for in the region of 215 crew members However, the final figure may be higher depending on the agreements reached with the unions.

USO and the Sepla pilots union have indicated that they will "face negotiations together" to maintain the maximum number of jobs for the crews based in Spain as well as their worker rights. The consultations with the unions will begin this week and will last for a month.

The company has reiterated its commitment to maintain a permanent presence in Spain, "at a time when the company has withdrawn from all its markets, except the Scandinavian ones". Therefore, it will only maintain a permanent presence in Scandinavia and Spain.
EAM Subramanian Jaishankar launched a scathing attack on senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh and his party on Sunday after he questioned whether the External Affairs Ministry was sleeping, while the Youth Congress attended to an alleged SOS calls from foreign embassies.

Ramesh was referring to a video in which Indian Youth Congress members were seen supplying oxygen cylinders to foreigners at the Philippines Embassy in New Delhi. Reacting to the video, the Congress leader said, While I thank the IYC for its stellar efforts, as an Indian citizen Im stunned that the youth wing of the Opposition party is attending to SOS calls from foreign embassies. Is the MEA sleeping? he questioned, tagging Jaishankar in the post.

While I thank @IYC for its stellar efforts, as an Indian citizen Im stunned that the youth wing of the opposition party is attending to SOS calls from foreign embassies. Is the MEA sleeping @DrSJaishankar ? https://t.co/iEG49baE9l  Jairam Ramesh (@Jairam_Ramesh) May 1, 2021

Jaishankar slams Congress' 'cheap publicity'

The External Affairs Minister responded sharply to Jairams tweet and clarified that it was an unsolicited supply by the Youth Congress despite the Philippines having zero COVID-19 cases.

Clearly for cheap publicity by you know who. Giving away cylinders like this when there are people in desperate need of oxygen is simply appalling, Jaishankar wrote on Twitter. Jairamji, MEA never sleeps; our people know across the world. MEA also never fakes; we know who does, the Minister said, slamming the Congress party.

Republic sources have confirmed that the Philippines embassy received a hoax call from a person in Manila asking if they wanted oxygen supplies. In no time, members of a political party arrived at their gate and offered oxygen cylinders. The mischief is being investigated, sources added.
The results of the West Bengal assembly elections have thrown up a landslide victory for the Trinamool Congress over the BJP even though Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee lost the high-stake Nandigram seat to her protegee-turned-rival Suvendu Adhikari. However, despite the elections coming to an end, political violence continued in the state.

The Bharatiya Janata Party has accused TMC workers of torching its offices and attacking party workers while the results were being declared on Sunday. At least nine people have reportedly died and many others have suffered injuries as a result of the violence.

In light of the rising incidents of violence and arson in the state post elections, Governor Jagdeep Dhankar on Monday summoned the DGP of Bengal police and the Kolkata CP to take all steps to restore law and order.

Such political violence and lawlessness cannot be overlooked as this taints essence of democratic fabric. Sad also to gather that nine persons have lost their lives and many injured in post-poll political violence, the Governor said in a tweet.

Dhankar also spoke to CM Mamata Banerjee and expressed concern about the reports of violence in the state. In a tweet, the Governor informed that Banerjee has assured that steps will be taken by the Home Department to maintain peace and tranquillity.

DGP @WBPolice and Commissioner @CPKolkata summoned by me in the wake of continually rising post poll incidents of arson, looting and violence as also killings in the State were indicated of alarming scenario.



Called upon them to take all steps to restore law and order. pic.twitter.com/BcblaimLeO  Governor West Bengal Jagdeep Dhankhar (@jdhankhar1) May 3, 2021

Sad also to gather that nine persons have lost their lives and many injured in post poll political violence.  Governor West Bengal Jagdeep Dhankhar (@jdhankhar1) May 3, 2021

Perturbed and worried at several reports of violence, arson and killings from various parts of State. Party offices, houses & shops being attacked. Situation alarming.



Prompt action called for @HomeBengal @WBPolice @CPKolkata



Have conferred @MamataOfficial for urgent action.  Governor West Bengal Jagdeep Dhankhar (@jdhankhar1) May 3, 2021

Shared my concern and anguish @MamataOfficial at reports of violence and arson in the state.



Assured by CM that concerned @HomeBengal will be directed to take all steps to maintain peace and tranquillity.



Appeal all to observe calm and peace and follow covid protocols.  Governor West Bengal Jagdeep Dhankhar (@jdhankhar1) May 2, 2021

Massive violence breaks out in Bengal

Violence broke out in parts of West Bengal on Sunday evening even as trends and results poured in from the assembly election. Houses and vehicles of some BJP candidates were allegedly attacked and a party office at Arambagh was set ablaze. The vehicle of Suvendu Adhikari, who defeated the TMC Supremo in Nandigram, was also attacked.

TMC leaders, however, denied connection with any violence and urged people to maintain peace and follow COVID-19 protocols. At Natabari, BJP candidate Mihir Goswamis car was also damaged. He won the election against senior TMC leader Rabindranath Ghosh from the same constituency.

Moreover, the saffron party office at Arambagh was set ablaze after the partys candidate Madhusudan Bag defeated TMCs Sujata Mondal by around 7,100 votes. At Siuri, a BJP office was ransacked and the local party leaders tractor was set ablaze, while in Kolkatas Beleghata constituency, the BJP candidates garage was set on fire.

The Trinamool won the West Bengal assembly elections on Sunday as counting for the 8-phase election was held. Mamata Banerjee, however, lost her own election against Suvendu Adhikari in Nandigram. She will, nonetheless, meet the Governor on Monday and stake claim to forming a government.
The world's longest pedestrian suspension bridge has opened in northern Portugal and was officially inaugurated on May 2. The Arouca Bridge is 516 meters long and it hangs 175 metres above the fast-flowing Paiva River. The narrow footbridge connects Aguieiras Waterfall and Paiva Gorge and it is the latest adventure offering in the Arouca Geopark, which is known for its extreme sports.

According to The Guardian, before Sundays official opening ceremony, people from the nearby town were allowed to walk over the megastructures see-through metal grids. Hugo Xavier was the first person to make the crossing. After reaching the other side of the footbridge, Xavier said that he was a little afraid, but it was so worth it. He called the experience extraordinary and unique and further added that it was a great adrenaline rush.

Breath of fresh air

The narrow bridge took around two years to build and it is a fundamental attraction for the region, the town mayor said. It is a Tibetan-style hanging bridge and is held by steel cables and two huge V-shaped towers. The railings are rigid netting, while the deck is constructed of 127 four-meter long modules.

The bridge is designed by Portuguese studio Itecons and its construction was completed in July 2020. The Arouca Bridge cost $2.8 million to build. Children under age 6 are not allowed on it and all visits will be accompanied by guides. The local council, Arouca Municipality, had said that this bridge aims at targeting the interest of different types of people.

The towns mayor has called the bridge a breath of fresh air and it has been named "Arouca 516. The bridge is opened to the public and its access costs between 10 and 12 euros ($12-14). It has stolen the longest pedestrian suspension bridge title from the Charles Kuonen Suspension Bridge in Switzerland, which spans 1,621 feet and opened in 2017. It is worth noting that the worlds longest ever bridge is the Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge in China.

(Images: AP)
STORY: Syria Explosion - Aftermath as deadly blast rocks north-west Syria

LENGTH: 01:15

FIRST RUN: 1551

RESTRICTIONS:

TYPE: Natsound

SOURCE: ASSOCIATED PRESS

STORY NUMBER: 4323937

DATELINE: 3 May 2021 - Idlib Province

SHOTLIST:

RESTRICTION SUMMARY:

ASSOCIATED PRESS

Idlib Province - 3 May 2021

1. Wide of smoke in the sky

2. Activists from the Syrian Civil Defence, also known as White Helmets, looking under rubble

3. Various of rubble

4. White helmets searching through rubble

5. Pan of rubble, White Helmets at work

6. Wide of ambulance coming into a tented settlement, close to the explosion site

7. Wide of settlement

8. Various of Syrian White Helmets at the tented settlement

STORYLINE:

A mysterious explosion rocked northwest Syria Monday killing at least one person and wounding seven others, opposition activists said.

The activists said the explosion occurred as an armed drone flew over the outskirts of the village of Foua in Idlib province, the last major rebel stronghold in the war-torn country.

The explosion occurred near a tented settlement for displaced people but none of them were hurt, the activists said.

The Britain-based Syrian observatory for Human Rights said the explosion occurred at a weapons facility for jihadi fighters from the former Soviet Union.

Idlib-based citizen journalist Salwa Abdul-Rahman said the explosion was caused by a missile fired from a drone.

U.S. drone attacks in the past have targeted jihadi fighters, mostly al-Qaida-linked militants.

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Residents of the al Hol camp are suffering from a lack of services amid an outbreak of coronavirus among displaced Syrians and Iraqi refugees inside the camp.

There have been 19 identified and isolated COVID cases, with two deaths, according to Jaber Mustafa, head of the relations office in al Hol camp.

Nevertheless, the security situation has improved considerably after Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) launched an operation inside the camp.

It began on 28 March 2021 and the Kurdish-led forces said nearly 5,000 fighters participated.

It resulted in the arrest of 125 members of Islamic State group sleeper cells inside the camp, including at least 20 believed implicated in killings inside al Hol.

There have been 47 killings in al Hol since the start of 2021.

This number has reduced to one murder and one suicide attempt since the beginning of April, according to Jaber Mustafa.

The slayings at the camp are largely believed to have been carried out by IS group militants punishing perceived enemies and intimidating anyone who wavers from their extremist line.

That's according to the Syrian Kurdish officials who run the camp but say they struggle to keep it under control.

The al Hol camp houses over 59,000 people, including wives and children of IS group members, and US officials say it has become a breeding ground for the next generation of the Islamic State group.

Al Hol camp, east of Hasaka, witnessed an influx of large numbers of displaced people and refugees from areas that were under the control of the Islamic State group during the SDF attack against its last strongholds in 2019.

The Syrian Kurdish-led forces and the US-led coalition announced victory against IS in March 2019, after the militants lost all their territorial holdings.

Thousands escaped into the desert while others were detained and held in detention facilities.

More than 80% of the camp's residents are women and children, two-thirds of them under the age of 12. The majority are Syrian and Iraqi but about 10,000 are from 57 other countries.

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Iran's supreme leader on Sunday said leaked remarks made by the country's foreign minister which offered a blunt appraisal of the country's power struggles as "regrettable" and "surprising".

The recordings of Iran's top diplomat Mohammad Javad Zarif included frank comments about the powerful late Iranian Gen. Qassem Soleimani, who was killed by a US drone strike in Iraq last year, as well as criticism of his polices in Syria and his relations with Russia.

In a speech broadcast live on state TV, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei appeared to lambast Zarif for departing from the official line, although he didn't call him out by name.

It's a big mistake that must not be made by an official of the Islamic Republic, Khamenei said.

Zarif has apologised for the comments, which have sparked a political firestorm in Iran less than two months before presidential elections.

Speculation had mounted in recent weeks that Zarif, the Iranian official perhaps most closely associated with the now-tattered nuclear agreement, would challenge hard-liners in the upcoming vote.

Khameneis apparent censure of the foreign minister casts doubt over any potential presidential ambitions, as the Guardian Council, a body of senior clerics and legal experts that serves under Khamenei, vets candidates for office.

Zarif has insisted he doesnt want to run.

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Turkish warplanes bombed suspected Kurdish militant targets in northern Iraq overnight Sunday, targeting areas around Kesta village in the Dohuk governorate.

Turkey's military has launched a new ground and air offensive against militants of the banned Kurdistan Workers' Party, or PKK, which maintain bases in northern Iraq and have used the territory for attacks against Turkey.

Over the past nine days Turkish warplanes, military helicopters, and artilleries have carried out extensive bombings on the areas in Kesta, Jilki, and Herur villages in Dohuk, in the northern Kurdish region of Iraq.

It the first Turkish incursion into the region since February, when 13 Turkish citizens, who were abducted by Kurdish insurgents, were found dead in a cave complex in an apparently botched operation to rescue them.

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Colombo, May 3 (PTI) Sri Lankas Attorney General on Monday slapped 800 charges against two top former security officials for their failure to prevent the deadly 2019 Easter Sunday bomb attacks in which over 270 people, including 11 Indians, were killed.

The charges were unveiled in the Colombo High Court by the country's top law officer Dappula de Livera against former official in the defence ministry Hemasiri Fernando and former chief of police Pujith Jayasundera.

The duo has been accused of neglecting the prior intelligence input on the impending attacks, thereby failing to prevent the loss of life.

Nine suicide bombers, belonging to local Islamist extremist group National Thawheed Jamaat (NTJ) linked to ISIS, carried out coordinated blasts that tore through three churches and as many luxury hotels in Sri Lanka on the Easter Sunday in 2019.

A special presidential panel recently recommended that criminal action be taken against both Fernando, Jayasundera and several other senior defense officials, including former president Maithripala Sirisena.

The trial of Fernando and Jayasundera is to be held before a 3-member bench for murder and attempted murder.

The probe panel appointed by Sirisena himself has found him culpable for the attacks. Sirisena as the then defense minister ordered the arrest of both Fernando and Jayasundera and both were in jail for many months before being given bail.

After the release of the probe report, a former Muslim minister was recently arrested for alleged connivance with the suicide bombers.

Rishad Bathiyutheen, the former minister of commerce, and his brother, who was also arrested, have denied accusations and dubbed the arrest as politically motivated.

Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith, the head of the local Catholic church, has been demanding action against Sirisena. The Colombo Church has been holding a ''Black Sunday'' congregation every week, demanding justice for the victims.

The Buddhist-majority nation was about to mark a decade since ending a 37-year-long Tamil separatist war in May 2009 when the suicide bombings in 2019 rocked the country.

The attacks caused a political storm as the then government headed by President Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe was blamed for its inability to prevent the deadly attacks despite the prior intelligence made available on the impending terror strikes.

During his tenure, Sirisena formed a presidential panel to probe the attacks. In its report, the panel said Sirisena and a host of other top defence officials, including former defence secretaries, former IGPs and intelligence chiefs, were guilty of ignoring prior intelligence.

The panel report recommended criminal action against them. The panel had recommended that findings against Sirisena and the then police top brass be referred to the Attorney General for necessary legal action.

Sirisena has publicly denied receiving any prior information on the attacks. PTI CORR MRJ AKJ MRJ

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STORY: Germany Child Pornography 2 - German government lauds arrests in child porn ring

LENGTH: 00:58

FIRST RUN: 1624

RESTRICTIONS:

TYPE: German/Natsound

SOURCE: ASSOCIATED PRESS

STORY NUMBER: 4323948

DATELINE: 3 May 2021 - Berlin

SHOTLIST:

RESTRICTION SUMMARY:

ASSOCIATED PRESS

Berlin  3 May 2021

1. German government news conference, with spokesman of the German Interior Ministry (right) Dr Markus Lammert

2. SOUNDBITE (German) Dr Markus Lammert, German Interior Ministry spokesman:

"This is one of the biggest investigative successes in this field of crime."

3. Cutaway of journalists

4. SOUNDBITE (German) Dr Markus Lammert, German Interior Ministry spokesman:

"Federal (Interior) Minister (Horst) Seehofer made the following statement on the matter: 'This investigative success has a clear message: those who assault the weakest aren't safe anywhere. That's what investigators work for day and night, online and offline, globally. We hold the perpetrators accountable and we'll do everything within our power to protect the kids from these disgusting crimes.'"

5. Cutaway of media

6. SOUNDBITE (German) Dr Markus Lammert, German Interior Ministry spokesman:

"Those arrested are primarily administrators of this platform and one so-called super-user, i.e. someone who has fuelled the spread by uploading a particularly large number of images."

7. Government press conference

STORYLINE:

German prosecutors announced Monday they have busted one of the world's biggest international darknet platforms for child pornography, used by more than 400,000 registered members.

Frankfurt prosecutors said in a statement together with the Federal Criminal Police Office that in mid-April three German suspects, said to be the administrators of the "Boystown" platform, were arrested along with a German user.

One of the three main suspects was arrested in Paraguay.

They also searched seven buildings in connection with the porn ring in mid-April in Germany.

German Interior Ministry spokesman Dr Markus Lammert said Monday it was "one of the biggest investigative successes in this field of crime".

He quoted Germany's top security official who thanked the authorities for their success.

"This investigative success has a clear message: Those who assault the weakest aren't safe anywhere," German Interior Minister Horst Seehofer said in a written statement.

"That's what investigators work for day and night, online and offline, globally."

The authorities said the platform was "one of the world's biggest child pornography darknet platforms" and had been active at least since 2019.

Paedophiles used it to exchange and watch pornography of children and toddlers, most of them boys, from all over the world.

Prosecutors wrote that they found "images of most severe sexual abuse of toddlers" among the photos and video material.

A German police task force investigated the platform, its administrators and users for months in cooperation with Europol and law enforcement authorities from the Netherlands, Sweden, Australia, the United States and Canada, the statement said.

The three main suspects were a 40-year-old man from Paderborn, a 49-year-old man from Munich and a 58-year-old man from northern Germany who had been living in Paraguay for many years, the prosecutors' statement said.

They worked as administrators of the site and gave advice to members on how to evade law enforcement when using the platform for illegal child pornography.

A fourth suspect, a 64-year-old man from Hamburg, is accused of being one of the most active users of the platform having allegedly uploaded more than 3,500 posts.

Germany has requested the extradition of the suspect who was arrested in Paraguay.

No names were given in line with Germany privacy regulations.

After the raids in mid-April, the online platform was shut down.

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A Cuban dissident artist who claimed he was on hunger strike after accusing the government of stealing some of his artworks was taken to hospital on Sunday.

Luis Manuel Otero Alcantara arrived at the Calixto Garcia Hospital in Havana at dawn getting out of an ambulance on his own and walking into the hospital.

Cuban authorities released a short video showing his arrival and also published a communique from the Ministry of Health saying Otero Alcantara arrived without "signs of malnutrition" and "with the presence of normal clinical and biochemical parameters".

For a week Otero Alcantara protested against the government and state security saying he was on a hunger strike and not taking food nor liquids, accusing the government of having taken art works from his home.

The AP could not independently verify the hunger strike.

The official statement indicated that he arrived at the health center "in medical transport, in a conscious state, and walking without difficulty" and his evolution is "stable."

This is the second time in less than six months that Otero Alcantara has carried out a protest of this type.

Last November, the action was the catalyst for a group of intellectuals and artists to demonstrate at the doors of the Ministry of Culture requesting a dialogue to secure more room in Cuban society for independent art.

Authorities routinely regard dissidents as "mercenaries" and often show dissidents or their sponsors being paid by interest groups in the United States with an anti-revolution agenda.

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The National Police in El Ejido, in Andalucia's Almeria province, have arrested a 24-year-old employee of a pharmacy accused of falsifying PCR tests with negative results that he sold for 130 euros.

Officers allege that the Moroccan man, who also ran an airline ticket booking business, fiddled the results to citizens of the same nationality so that they could travel back to their country.

So far, seven cases have been detected in which fake PCR tests have been presented for trips to Morocco, although the investigation remains open due to the appearance of new cases.

National Police suspicions were raised about a black market in which negative PCR tests could be obtained in exchanged for a large sum of money.

El Ejido officers launched Operation Pharmacy on 20 April and investigations discovered how PCR tests were carried out and referred to a laboratory in Hospitalet de Llobregat (Barcelona), which analysed the samples and issued a report.

One of the pharmacy employees, who acted alone, allegedly created a "quite sophisticated" network to attract customers and hide the criminal act with the sole purpose of making money. He allegedly charged around 130 euros.

Through his work in the pharmacy, he accessed the computer of the laboratory where the original documents were stored and falsified them.

Police said that the man also had his own airline ticket booking business. He is facing document falsification charges.
Nepals embattled Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli will seek a vote of confidence from Parliament on May 10 in his bid to stay in power. President Bidya Devi Bhandari, on the recommendation of Prime Minister Oli, summoned a Parliament session on May 10 to obtain a vote of confidence in his government, according to an official statement on Sunday.

Oli, 69, requires at least 136 votes in the 275-member House of Representatives, the lower house of Parliament, to win the confidence motion as four members are currently under suspension. During a Cabinet meeting on Sunday, Oli said that he would try to win the trust of Parliament to stay in power, Nepalese media reported. Oli's decision comes amid the current chaotic state of political affairs in the country that emerged since the Prime Minister's controversial move to dissolve the House of Representatives in December last year.

The Prime Minister will seek a vote of confidence on May 10, Lila Nath Shrestha, Minister for Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, told the Kathmandu Post. This is just a day-long session, Shrestha said Oli wants to take a vote of confidence to take the political process which has been stuck now, forward.

The government believes it will win the vote of confidence. If not, the process will move forward for the formation of a coalition government. This is also an opportunity for other parties to form the government otherwise the country will move in the direction of the snap poll, he said.

Prime Minister Oli's decision to seek a confidence vote comes at a time when Nepal is grappling with the effects of the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. The country on Sunday reported a record 7,137 new cases of the coronavirus, the highest daily surge. The national tally has crossed the 329,000-mark. The death toll now stands at 3,325.

Nepal plunged into a political crisis on December 20 last year after President Bhandari dissolved the House and announced fresh elections on April 30 and May 10 at the recommendation of Prime Minister Oli, amidst a tussle for power within the ruling Nepal Communist Party (NCP).

Oli's move to dissolve the House sparked protests from a large section of the NCP led by his rival Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda', also a co-chair of the ruling party. In February, the apex court reinstated the dissolved House of Representatives, in a setback to embattled Prime Minister Oli who was preparing for snap polls.

A five-member constitutional bench led by Chief Justice Cholendra Shumsher JBR annulled the government's decision to dissolve the lower house of Parliament and ordered the government to summon the House session within the next 13 days. Oli repeatedly defended his move to dissolve the House of Representatives, saying some leaders of his party were attempting to form a "parallel government". As many as 13 writ petitions, including the one by the ruling Nepal Communist Party's Chief Whip Dev Prasad Gurung, were filed at the apex court seeking the restoration of the lower house of Parliament.

Image Credits: Twitter - @kpsharmaoli

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Kathmandu, May 2 (PTI) Nepals President Bidya Devi Bhandari has summoned a session of the House of Representatives on May 10, her office said on Sunday.

President Bhandari has summoned the Parliament session as per the recommendation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli to call the meeting to obtain the vote of confidence from the Parliament, according to a notice issued by the Presidents Office.

As per the notice, the 275-member lower house will begin at 1 pm on the slated date.

As four members are currently under suspension, Prime Minister Oli requires at least 136 votes to win the confidence motion.

Nepal's political atmosphere has yet again returned to its imminent unstable form as the political future of the nation hangs in the balance with looming uncertainty of the ruling government maintaining power.

Prime Minister Oli's decision to seek a confidence vote comes at a time when Nepal is grappling with the effects of the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Nepal on Sunday reported a record 7,137 new cases of COVID-19, the highest daily surge in the country. The total tally has crossed 329,000-mark. The death toll now stands at 3,325.

Nepal plunged into a political crisis on December 20 after President Bhandari dissolved the House and announced fresh elections on April 30 and May 10 at the recommendation of Prime Minister Oli, amidst a tussle for power within the ruling Nepal Communist Party (NCP).

Oli's move to dissolve the House sparked protests from a large section of the NCP led by his rival Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda', also a co-chair of the ruling party. In February, the apex court reinstated the dissolved House of Representatives, in a setback to embattled Prime Minister Oli who was preparing for snap polls.

A five-member Constitutional bench led by Chief Justice Cholendra Shumsher JBR annulled the government's decision to dissolve the lower house of Parliament and ordered the government to summon the House session within the next 13 days.

Oli repeatedly defended his move to dissolve the House of Representatives, saying some leaders of his party were attempting to form a "parallel government".

As many as 13 writ petitions, including the one by the ruling Nepal Communist Party's Chief Whip Dev Prasad Gurung, were filed at the apex court seeking the restoration of the lower house of Parliament. PTI SBP AMS ZH AMS AMS

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Pope Francis said on Sunday that he was praying for the victims of a stampede in Israel that killed 45 people during a religious gathering for a sage revered by the ultra-Orthodox community.

During his traditional Sunday blessing, Francis said, "with sadness, I express my closeness to the population of Israel for the accident that occurred last Friday on Mount Meron."

Francis also used his weekly address from the window of the Papal apartments above St. Peter's Square to send greetings to Orthodox Christians as they celebrated Easter on Sunday.

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Russia has been noticing signals from the United States indicating Washington's readiness to discuss the issues of strategic stability and is ready for a dialogue, but will press its missile defense concerns, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova told Sputnik,

"We are not aware from what angle (US President) Joe Biden's administration will address various aspects of arms control, including the anti-missile issues. At the same time, we are registering signals from Washington [showing] an intention to discuss the issues of strategic stability with us." She added, "However, we will not agree to anything without our interests and concerns being taken into account in return. If we manage to jointly arrive at a balance of interest then we can talk about agreements."

The spokesperson did mention that Moscow was prepared to have a substantive dialogue on the matter. Diplomat did not hesitate to inculpate the US of pursuing absolute military dominance and counting on Russia's nuclear deterrent getting weaker. The diplomat further explained,

"The US has adopted the goal of reaching absolute dominance in the military areas and counts devaluation of Russia's nuclear deterrence potential, (combined) with a focus on creation of a global missile defense system."

She also stated that the US was boosting its military capacities in space and create means for a rapid and high-precision non-nuclear strike.

This surfaced a week after the US Department of Defense was reported to have plans to allocate almost USD18 billion to develop, manufacture and maintain new intercepts against missiles from North Korea and Iran, which will become the first major defense procurement initiate in the Biden administration. Department has planned to install 31 such interceptors at bases in Alaska.

New Interceptors for the US

The US Department of Defence intends to spend about USD18 billion to develop and support its new interceptor to stop incoming nuclear missiles from North Korea or Iran, the first major defence procurement award of the Biden administration. These interceptors have been said to be designed to crash into and detroy the incoming missiles from any adversary namely, North Korea and Iran. They would be installed on missiles based in Alaska. Each of the 31 interceptors is estimated to cost about $US498 million.
Colombian President Ivan Duque on Sunday called for the withdrawal of an unpopular tax reform that sparked street protests and led to violence in recent days.

Duque called for urgent action on a new initiative at a time when Colombia continues to suffer from the coronavirus pandemic.

"I am asking Congress to withdraw the law proposed by the Ministry of Finance and urgently process a new law that is the fruit of consensus, in order to avoid financial uncertainty," Duque said Sunday.

He said the reform is not proposed on a whim but was created out of necessity, adding that the focus of the discussion shouldn't be if the reform is withdrawn or not but on how to guarantee the continuity of social programs.

Requesting the withdraw of the tax reform was an important move by Duque.

On Friday, Duque said he was willing to amend the reform, such as the 19% tax on public services for the middle and upper social strata, funeral services and gasoline, although he ruled out withdrawing it on the grounds that it was necessary to maintain subsidies for the most vulnerable populations during the pandemic.

Colombians have been taking to the streets in demonstrations against the government tax hikes that seek to recover 20 trillion pesos (5.4 million US dollars).

Colombia is suffering from a fiscal deficit caused by the COVID-19 pandemic which negatively affected much of its economy last year and the hikes - mostly on members of the middle class - are seen as too harsh.

Some demonstrations turned violent, with police clashing with protesters.

On Sunday, crowds again marched.

Protester Angela Lopez said they are still concerned about what a new proposal will look like.

"We had hoped for it (tax reform being withdrawn). But we are not untroubled. We really don't know what will happen, we don't know what other proposal they'll have. We don't know what other name this situation will be given," she said.

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U.S. President Joe Biden's national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, said Sunday that U.S. "policy toward North Korea is not aimed at hostility, its aimed at solutions and at "ultimately achieving the complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. And were prepared to engage in diplomacy towards that ultimate objective, but work on practical measures that can help us make progress along the way towards that goal, Sullivan said on ABC's This Week.

North Korea on Sunday warned that the United States will face a very grave situation and alleged that President Joe Biden made a big blunder in his recent speech by calling the North a security threat. Last week, Biden, in his first address to Congress, called North Korea and Irans nuclear programs serious threats to American and world security and said hell work with allies to address those problems through diplomacy and stern deterrence.

His statement clearly reflects his intent to keep enforcing the hostile policy toward the DPRK as it had been done by the U.S. for over half a century, Kwon Jong Gun, a senior North Korean Foreign Ministry official, said in a statement. DPRK stands for the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea, the Norths official name.

Image Credits: AP

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Top Biden administration officials and U.S. senators crisscrossed the Middle East on Monday, seeking to assuage growing unease among Gulf Arab partners over America's rapprochement with Iran and other policy shifts in the region.

The trips come at a critical moment, as the U.S. and Iran, through intermediaries in Vienna, discuss a return to Tehran's tattered 2015 nuclear deal with world powers that former President Donald Trump abandoned three years ago.

The United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and other Gulf allies, excluded from Obama-era nuclear negotiations, have repeatedly pressed for a seat at the table and signaled they oppose a return to the accord that doesn't address Iran's ballistic missile program and support for regional proxies.

Senator Chris Coons of Delaware, a powerful Democrat who Biden considered for Secretary of State and has dispatched on overseas diplomatic missions, told reporters in the UAE's capital of Abu Dhabi that he aimed to allay the sheikhdom's "understandable and legitimate concerns" about the return to the landmark deal and to create "broader engagement" with Gulf partners.

Coons said "close consultation" with the UAE about ongoing talks in Vienna was "important, expected and happening," adding that he hopes the Emiratis "may not just be notified, but actually help."

However, what that means remains unclear, as Gulf states now watch with resignation as negotiations gain traction in the Austrian capital.

When asked to elaborate, Coons balked at the suggestion that the UAE's input had acquired any greater significance in talks with Iran over the last five years.

"I did not in any way mean to suggest that there was some deal in the works where the Emiratis would be securing anything," he said.

"Vienna is the place where the United States government, the administration, is negotiating."

Meanwhile, regional tensions are rising.

To pressure the Biden administration to lift sanctions and come back into compliance with the deal, Iran has steadily violated the accord's limitations on nuclear enrichment and stockpiles of enriched uranium.

The long shadow war between Israel and the Iran has intensified, with suspected Israeli attacks on Iranian ships in volatile Mideast waterways and at Iran's Natanz nuclear facility.

Senator Chris Murphy, D-Conn. joined the flurry of diplomatic activity in the region this week, jetting to Oman, Qatar and Jordan for talks on a political solution to the war in Yemen.

In an interview with The Associated Press from Amman, Murphy credited the influence of the Biden administration on recent steps in the region to defuse tensions, such as a Saudi cease-fire initiative floated to the Iran-backed Houthi rebels and secret talks between archenemies Iran and Saudi Arabia.

Earlier this year, Biden announced the end of U.S. support to the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen.

Murphy stressed on the need to "get back into the Iran agreement, because I worry that without it, it makes it very hard to line up events inside Yemen to get a cease fire."

So long as were still sanctioning the hell out of the Iranian economy, the Iranians are going to see Yemen as an opportunity to make mischief against the United States and our allies," Murphy warned.

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The offices of Hong Kong public broadcaster RTHK are shown in a file photo.

Hong Kong's government broadcaster fired an outspoken journalist and began deleting online programming on World Press Freedom Day on Monday, amid an ongoing crackdown on critical voices in the city.

Radio Television Hong Kong (RTHK), a government department that had enjoyed editorial independence before a draconian national security law banned criticism of the authorities, said it wouldn't renew the short-term contract of Nabela Qoser after her hard-hitting questioning of city officials during the 2019 protest movement.

Management had earlier terminated the permanent civil service contract of TV current affairs anchor Qoser, in a move that was widely condemned as political interference in the media.

Qoser fired a series of hard-hitting questions at chief executive Carrie Lam in the wake of a July 31, 2019 attack by armed thugs on train passengers in Yuen Long, prompting Lam and other top officials to walk out of a news conference.

The station "re-opened" the investigation into her professional conduct despite her exoneration by a previous investigation into complaints about her.

RTHK was later criticized by police commissioner Chris Tang over its reporting of police violence during the protests.

The government in February announced changes to the editorial chain-of-command, replacing the director of broadcasting and reforming RTHK's editorial structure to "ensure it complies" with government directives.

Career bureaucrat Patrick Li took over from Leung Ka-wing as editor-in-chief from March 1.

Meanwhile, the station reported that Hong Kong people were rushing to save copies of its programs as the station began removing copies of its older programs from the internet.

"RTHK noted that it has long removed news stories and programmes from its official website after a year, and said deleting material from YouTube that is older than 12 months is consistent with this policy," according to an RTHK English news report.

Satire, reports removed

Hong Kong Connection documentaries and episodes of axed satirical show Headliner were among the first to be taken down from the free video platform, it said.

The producer of one documentary film in the Hong Kong Connection series about the Yuen Long attacks, Bao Choy, was recently fined after being prosecuted for "misuse" of a license plate search facility in connection with her research on the movements of the Yuen Long attackers in the run-up to the violence.

Choy's film, together with films probing police violence during the 2019 protests, including an attack by armed riot police on train passengers inside Prince Edward MTR on Aug. 31, 2019, were among the first to be deleted.

A platform called SaveRTHK has been set up to make the programs available following their deletion from YouTube and other sites, RTHK said.

"After [RTHK] was painted red by [director of broadcasting] Patrick Li, all its contents will be removed from the shelves. To ensure history will not be forgotten, internet users have decided to upload the programmes here," it quoted the platform as saying in a statement.

Fu King-wah, associate professor of journalism at the University of Hong Kong, said the move likely spelled the end of RTHK's editorial independence.

"This whole operation is designed to turn RTHK into a government-controlled operation," Gu said. "Frontline reporters are leaving, and some programs have been axed or removed."

"At the same time, there is more officially sanctioned content, which is basically propaganda," he said.

Chief executive Carrie Lam recently began her own show on RTHK, in which she interviews pro-China figures on topics likely to be approved by the ruling Chinese Communist Party (CCP).

Following the restructuring in March, RTHK management announced the station would air Lam's daily show four times a day, to "engender a sense of citizenship and national identity."

Off-limits topics

Hong Kong Journalists' Association chairman Chris Yeung said there are now many topics that are off-limits to journalists, including criticisms of police violence.

Journalists who continue to produce content critical of the government are being increasingly denounced as "fake reporters," Yeung told RFA.

"Government officials see some reports in the media that aren't what they would want to see, and they call them inaccurate, or 'fake news'," Yeung said, adding that legislation will likely be brought in to combat critical journalism.

"It's hard for the media to stay healthy in such an environment," he said. "It's not just political pressure; it's actually part of a high-risk game of politics."

"It's getting harder and harder to operate here, and the risks are getting higher and higher, so I think Hong Kong will lose a lot of media organizations," Yeung said.

The HKJA's annual press freedom survey showed that indicators of press freedom were at an all-time low in the city.

It cited "doubt or hesitation" when criticizing the authorities, narrowing access to information and threats to personal safety as driving factors behind the fall.

Ninety-one percent of the nearly 400 journalists interviewed for the survey said press freedom had gotten worse compared with just one year ago, before the national security law took effect on July 1, 2020.

Forty percent said their editors had put pressure on them to minimize any reporting of pro-independence sentiment, while 69 percent said they felt uncomfortable reporting on dissent.

The national security law was cited as having the biggest impact on press freedom, with the police raid on the headquarters of Next Digital and changes to accreditation procedures allowing police to define who is and isn't a journalist were listed in second or third place.

Bao Choy's prosecution for searching vehicle license plate records was listed in fourth place, and the December 2020 mass firing of i-Cable's news department in fifth place, it said.



Reported by Gigi Lee and Lu Xi for RFA's Cantonese and Mandarin Services. Translated and edited by Luisetta Mudie.
Hubbard Chamber To Hold Annual Banquet Saturday With last years chamber banquet being canceled due to COVID-19, the Greater Hubbard Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors has announced plans for this years awards banquet. It will be held Saturday, May 8, in the Haralson Family Life Center, located at 208 NW Second Street, with festivities getting underway at 6 p.m.



This year, the chamber is Celebrating Texas Style. Angie Krick will be at the piano while dinner is being served.



The chamber board of directors has announced the names of those to be honored at this years banquet. The Business of the Year Award will go to Sonic, CareFlite will be recognized with the Community Service Award and Audrey Johnson has been chosen for the Distinguished Citizen Award. Judge Brad Henley has been selected as the Hall of Fame honoree.



As in past years, a number of new businesses that opened in 2019 and 2020 will also be recognized. They include Deerings General Store, Under a Texas Sky, Nibs Coffee & Ice Cream Bar, The Red Barn Winery & Tasting Room, Angel Rock Trading Company, Genes BBQ Trailer, LP Physical Therapy, Magnolia Treasures & Antiques and The Rusty Cow Boutique.



The roast beef dinner will be catered by Bill Wallers Country Kitchen. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at Foster Properties, Texas Brand Insurance Agency and Ida Pearls Vintage Shop.



For more information, contact the chamber office at 254-576-2521.


Since the start of Spain's vaccination campaign the Junta de Andalucia has been calling on central government for the delivery of half a million vaccines a week, a number that the Junta says it is capable of administering.

The wish has now been granted and, in the coming days, the region is preparing to receive a record 593,260 doses this week.

So far, in Spain, Andalucia is in the lead in terms of the percentage of vaccines administered in relation to those received, some 101.7 per cent, when taking advantage of a surplus obtained from the vials which are prepared for six doses.

This has allowed the region to vaccinate more than 907,000 people (10.7 per cent of the population) with both doses and have another 2,053,735 (24 per cent of the population) who have received their first vaccination.

The 593,260 doses due this week, is 38 per cent more than those received last week. The majority - 281,300 - will be from AstraZeneca, another 278,460 are from Pfizer and 33,500 are from Moderna.

With these new vaccines the Junta will be able to continue its generalised vaccination plan in descending age order, but it will also begin the vaccination of some 150,000 caregivers for the elderly.

This week it is expected that the administration of the first dose will continue to people between 60 and 69 years old and that the full programme will be completed for those over 70 years old.

The administration of vaccines is still carried out only by active professionals. However, last week the Andalusian Health Service (SAS) and the Andalusian Council of Medical Associations (CACM) signed an agreement to establish a collaborative framework to encourage the voluntary participation of retired doctors and those in private medicine. These tasks, however, will not be those of the administration of the vaccines, but support tasks.
Family members release flowers into the sea during a remembrance ceremony for the crew of the sunken Indonesian Navy submarine KRI Nanggala from the deck of the hospital ship KRI Dr. Soeharso off the coast of Bali, April 30, 2021.

Two Chinese military ships have reached Bali Sea waters to help salvage the wreckage of an Indonesian Navy submarine that sank last month with 53 crewmembers on board, officials said Monday.

Two of the three Peoples Liberation Army Navy ships that will participate in the effort to bring up pieces of the KRI Nanggala-402, whose wreck was found a half-mile under the sea, arrived the day before, said Navy spokesman 1st Adm. Julius Widjojono.

PRC Navy Ship Ocean Tug Nantuo-195 and PRC Navy Ocean Salvage & Rescue Yongxing Dao-863 have arrived in Indonesia, in Balis waters, on Sunday, Julius told BenarNews, an RFA-affiliated online news service.

Another ship, Scientific Salvage Tan Suo 2, is on its way to Indonesia.

The Yongxing Dao is equipped with an underwater robot and sonar technology and can recover objects as deep as 4,500 meters (14,760 feet), Julius said.

The German-made Indonesian submarine was taking part in a torpedo-firing exercise off the northern coast of Bali when it lost contact as it was about to receive clearance to fire on April 21.

The Chinese naval ships were dispatched after Beijings Ambassador to Jakarta, Xiao Qian, offered assistance to Indonesian Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto, the Navy said.

The offer of humanitarian assistance was welcomed by the government of Indonesia, it said in a statement.

An Indonesian armed forces spokesman, Col. Djawara Whimbo, said that the Chinese ships would carry out an operation to lift the hull, the heaviest part of the sunken sub.

Hopefully the equipment is adequate to carry out an immediate recovery operation, he told BenarNews.

The seafloor off Bali features steep slopes. The Bali Sea has a maximum depth of 1,590 m (5,216 feet).

The submarine was found broken into at least three pieces, at a depth of about 840 meters (2,756 feet), on April 25 after a search effort involving ships and aircraft from Singapore, Australia, Malaysia, India and the United States.

Vice Adm. Muhammad Ali, a former commander of the Nanggala-402, said in a statement last week that an underwater wave may have caused the submarine to sink.

He said the powerful movement, known as an oceanic nonlinear internal solitary wave, might have pulled the vessel vertically and caused it to sink faster than it should have.

Also last week, the The Straits Times newspaper quoted two senior Indonesian naval officials as saying that a strong internal wave in the spot where the submarine went missing on April 21 was captured in image reports from the same day by Japanese and European weather satellites.

On April 25, when the navy announced that the submarine was found broken up on the seabed and declared all of its 53 sailors dead, Navy chief of staff Adm. Yudo Margono Yudo had said the cause of the accident was unlikely due to human error.

The diving was carried out in accordance with proper procedures. This will be investigated and we will find out after the hull is lifted, he told reporters then.

I am sure this was not a human fault but rather a natural factor, he added.

On Friday, the Indonesian Navy and relatives of the submarines crew members prayed and cast flowers into the sea to pay their last respects to the fallen sailors, in a ceremony aboard a naval hospital ship led by Yudo.

None of the bodies of the dead sailors have been found.

Oil ship

The Indonesian Navy said it was also enlisting a ship operated by SKK Migas, the countrys oil industry regulator, to try to recover the sunken submarine.

SKK Migas head Dwi Soetjipto said that the agency was hammering out technical details before launching the salvage operation with the Timas 1201, which is equipped with a crane that can lift loads of up to 1,200 tons.

We are certainly ready to provide the necessary support, Dwi told MetroTVNews.

On Sunday, Adm. Yudo said that the Timas 1201 would likely be used to lift the broken parts of the submarine.

The recovery operation will be done gradually, Yudo told KompasTV.

But what about the mechanism? This is what we are still working on, he added.

Whimbo, the armed forces spokesman, said he did not know when the Timas 1201 would join the Chinese ships in Balis waters.

But if they are in the same location, it is possible to cooperate, he said.

He also said he did not know how long the three Chinese ships would be in Bali.

It depends on the situation there, because its a very difficult operation. Hopefully it wont be long, Whimbo said.

The KRI Nanggala-402 was built by German company Howaldtswerke-Deutsche Werft in 1977 and came into service in 1981, the Indonesian military had said.

From 2009 to 2012, the submarine was retrofitted by South Koreas Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering, officials had said.

With the loss of the KRI Nanggala-402, Indonesia has four submarines left in its naval fleet.

Reported by BenarNews, an RFA-affiliated online news service.
Taiwan's politicians have largely welcomed a headline and graphic on the cover the May 1, 2021 issue of The Economist depicting the democratic island as "The most dangerous place on Earth."



The graphic shows Taiwan, whose 24 million inhabitants are consistently refused representation in global organizations on the insistence of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), in the target sights of an aircraft or missile.



The image is a reference to growing military rhetoric and incursions by Beijing, which has never controlled the island, yet refuses to renounce the threat of force to annex it.



Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) president Tsai Ing-wen said the article "highlights the threat that Chinas military expansion poses to the Taiwan Strait and surrounding areas."



"While Taiwan does face a real threat from China, I want to assure everyone that our government is fully capable of managing all potential risks and protecting our country from danger," Tsai wrote in a response published on her Facebook page.



Foreign ministry spokeswoman Joanne Ou said her government welcomed growing international concern about Chinese aggression and "coercive behavior" towards Taiwan.



"The danger referred to in the article originates with China, and doesn't only affect the Taiwan Strait," Ou said. "China has intimidated its neighbors and pursued expansionist policies across the East China Sea, the South China Sea and in southeast Asia."



DPP lawmaker Wang Ting-yu said the article showed that the biggest threat to Taiwan's security and prosperity comes from China.



"In the face of that threat from China, a rebalancing of ties with the U.S. and checks and balances [on Chinese aggression] from the U.S. will put people at their ease," he said.



"[It will] also ensure that international investors can put their money here with confidence."

'Not the first option'



Tamkang University political scientist Chao Chun-shan said China hasn't yet shown any indication that it is fully committed to using force, however.



"I don't think that military force would be the first option for China, because they still feel that they can achieve the same result without it," Chao said. "But once they do make up their minds, they will stop at nothing."



United States National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan restated U.S. policy on April 30, namely that Washington opposes any unilateral action that would alter the status quo in Taiwan.



"That is how we are going to continue to approach the Taiwan issue going forward, with steadiness, clarity and resolve with respect to our view that there should be no unilateral changes to the status quo," he said.



Sullivan's comments came after Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines told the Senate Armed Services Committee that Taiwan appears to be "hardening" in the direction of independence in the face of growing threats and escalated rhetoric from China.



"I would say that already Taiwan is hardening, to some extent, toward independence as theyre watching, essentially, what happened in Hong Kong, and I think that is an increasing challenge," Haines said in April 29 testimony to the committee.



But she said any attempt to remove ambiguity around whether Washington would come to Taiwan's military aid would likely be destabilizing.



Such a move would solidify Chinese perceptions that the U.S. is bent on constraining Chinas rise, including through military force, Haines told the committee.

Oblivious to threat



On the streets of Taiwan's capital Taipei, a resident surnamed Lin said people aren't worried enough about the threat of a Chinese invasion.



"I think [the article] is right, but the biggest problem is that Taiwanese people are oblivious to this," Lin said. "So many international figures and strategists are trying to warn the people of Taiwan, and yet we just carry on eating, drinking and having fun."



A younger woman, also surnamed Lin, said Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. Ltd. (TSMC) is regarded as so crucial to global high-tech supply chains that it will effectively protect the island from invasion.



"It something bad happened to Taiwan, that would create a global disaster," she said.



Kuomintang congressional assistant Hsu Chien-hung and others recently co-authored an op-ed article in The Diplomat, calling on the U.S. not to abandon its strategic ambiguity on Taiwan.



"Beijing doesn't know which way [Washington] will jump, whether they would send in the troops, so this makes them cautious because they don't know where the U.S. has drawn the line," Hsu told RFA.



Reported by Jane Tang and Hsia Hsiao-hwa for RFA's Mandarin Service, and by Chung Kuang-cheng for the Cantonese Service. Translated and edited by Luisetta Mudie.
We could see it from here. It fell near the Shan Chinese School. People in the fields said there were three people in the aircraft, said a villager.

A government military helicopter shelling Kachin Independence Army positions was shot down by the KIA Monday near the Chinese border in northern Myanmar, where fighting has intensified since the Feb. 1 army overthrow of the elected government, a spokesman the ethnic rebel group said.

The helicopter was with two Myanmar Air Force jets shelling KIA posts near in Kachins Momauk township, one of five townships in Myanmars northernmost state that have seen numerus clashes in recent months, KIA spokesman Col. Naw Bu told RFA.

Two military jets and a helicopter gunship attacked our positions in Momauk township this morning. Our forces retaliated in defense and shot down the gunship, he said. We dont know the fate of the crew yet, Naw Bu added.

After the incident, the military shelled the village, injuring some villagers but we do not have the exact details yet, he said.

A woman from Sihat village at the center of the fighting Monday said villagers saw aircraft flying overhead.

At first we saw two aircraft over our skies. Later on, one disappeared and we assumed it must have been shot down because we saw some smoke billowing up, she said.

We could see it from here. It fell near the Shan Chinese School. People in the fields said there were three people in the aircraft, said the villager, who declined to give her name for safety reasons.

The Irrawaddy online news outlet quoted a local resident as saying the chopper crashed after being hit in its tail rotor and was spewing smoke after it crashed near Konglaw village.

The local Kachin Waves news outlet reported that two artillery shells fell on a monastery in Konglaw village after the military helicopter was shot down, killing a monk and two villagers, and injuring nine other people, including children.

The report said Mondays three deaths brought the number killed in recent government military attacks on Momauk villages to eight.

The situation has calmed down a little in most of these townships except in Momauk township, where the clashes have intensified during the past week. Naw Bu said.

RFA made two phone calls to Maj. Gen. Zaw Min Tun, the junta spokesman, but he did not answer.

The independent news outlet Myanmar Now quoted sources in Myitkyina, the Kachin State capital, as saying KIA had seized at least 10 junta army bases since fighting escalated with the Myanmar military in early March.

A view shows a Tatmadaw helicopter falling after being shot down in Konlaw, Myanmar, May 3, 2021, in this still image obtained from a social media video. Credit: Reuters

The fighting came as opponents of the three-month-old military that ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi and her elected government staged protests in Yangon, Mandalay, Bago, and Tanintharyi regions, as well as in Shan, Mon and Kayin states.

In Sagaing and Magway region and were met with gunfire by security forces.

In the Sagaing town of Wetlet, tens of thousands of people turned out in the streets Sunday and were fired upon by the army and police.

Two of our people were killed during the protest in the afternoon and several were injured. One of the injured died later in the evening, a Wetlet resident told RFA. The resident said eight people were injured.

In neighboring Magway Region, two people were killed and three others were injured in a shootout between the local People's Defense Force and the army near Htanbin Kone village on Monday

There was a clash for about three hours between the local residents and the junta forces near Htanbin Kone village this morning in which two people died and three were wounded. The locals were using Tumee handmade rifles against the soldiers. One of our villagers was taken prisoner by them, said a local villager.

Bombs were set off in four places in Yangon, the countrys largest city and commercial capital, witnesses said.

East of Yangon, in the Bago town of Nattalin, a police officer was injured in a bomb blast at a police station Sunday, a protester said.

Some members of our Civil Peoples Defense Force set off the bomb. We later heard a police woman had injured her hand. They have been threatening the lives of our people and our action is meant to deter them in their repression, the protester said.

After the bombing, police arrested two youths, bringing to at least 10 the number arrested in Nattalin.

According to an RFA tally, more than 750 people have been killed by the military and police across the country.

The Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP), a Thailand-based rights group, said that as of Thursday, 766 people had been killed since the Feb. 1 coup, while 3,614 were arrested, charged or sentenced.

Speaking in London after a meeting of the Group of Seven foreign ministers on Monday, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken voiced support for Southeast Asia diplomatic efforts to end the conflict in Myanmar but reiterated the demands of Western countries that the junta reverse course.

But it is vital, regardless of anything else, that the violence cease, that prisoners be released, and that Myanmar return to the path of democracy, he said.

Reported by Myanmar Service. Translated by Khin Maung Nyane. Written in English by Paul Eckert.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken (left) meets with Bruneian Foreign Minister Il Erywan Yusuf (right) in London, May 3, 2021.

The United States urged ASEAN to press Myanmar to implement actions agreed at a regional summit last month, as Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with the foreign minister of Brunei, the blocs current chair, in London on Monday.

The two top diplomats held talks amid reports that the Association of Southeast Asian Nations was trying to draw the United States and China into diplomacy aimed at restoring democracy and ending violence in Myanmar after the Burmese military overthrew an elected government on Feb. 1.

The diplomats discussed the role of Southeast Asian nations in resolving the crisis in Myanmar as Blinken and Bruneian Foreign Minister II Erywan Yusof held talks on the sidelines of a G7 foreign ministers meeting in the British capital, the U.S. State Department said in a statement.

The Secretary thanked Foreign Minister II Erywan for Bruneis work as chair on this issue and urged ASEAN to hold the Burmese military junta accountable to the consensus plan, State Department spokesman Ned Price said, noting that the two also discussed ASEANs role in resolving the crisis in Myanmar.

Brunei is this years holder of ASEANs rotating chairmanship.

The April 24 ASEAN consensus on Myanmar is rapidly unraveling after the junta chief there indicated on April 26 that he would act on the agreement only after there was stability in the country.

On April 27, the parallel civilian government said it would not participate in talks with the military unless political prisoners were freed.

ASEANs Five-Point Consensus on Myanmar called for an immediate cessation to violence, with all parties exercising utmost restraint. Myanmar military and security forces have killed 766 people, mainly anti-coup protesters, since the coup, according to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP), a Thai-based NGO.

The ASEAN consensus also called for constructive dialogue among all parties; the mediation of such talks by a special ASEAN envoy; the provision of ASEAN-coordinated humanitarian assistance and a visit to Myanmar by an ASEAN delegation to meet with all parties.

The consensus was reached after leaders and foreign ministers of all ASEAN member-countries, including Myanmars junta chief, Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, attended a special meeting in Jakarta.

The consensus did not mention the release of political prisoners, including Aung San Suu Kyi.

Two days after the summit, Myanmar security forces shot dead a man in the city of Mandalay.

And on Sunday, eight people were killed after Myanmar security forces opened fire on protests against military rule, Reuters news agency reported.

ASEAN doing very important work on Myanmar

Neither Brunei nor any other member-state has commented about the violence after the ASEAN consensus.

But on Monday, it appeared from a readout of the initial exchange when Blinken and II Erywan met that the latter had requested a meeting with Washingtons top diplomat.

[F]irstly, thank you for having this meeting with me, the Bruneian minister said, according to a U.S. State Department readout.

Blinken said that he was glad to meet II Erywan because of Washingtons and Bruneis ties, but also because Brunei is this years chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

He added that ASEAN was doing very important work with regard to Myanmar.

Last Friday, the United Nations Security Councils also expressed its strong support for ASEANs positive and constructive role in facilitating a peaceful solution in support of the people of Myanmar.

On Monday, the Department of Foreign Affairs of ASEAN member-nation the Philippines welcomed the U.N. statement.

In the meantime, an ASEAN source told the Nikkei Asia news agency over the weekend that the bloc had begun negotiations to hold a foreign ministers meeting with the U.S. and China, to seek support for its efforts to resolve the Myanmar crisis.

Preparations for the meeting with China had progressed, while ASEAN and the U.S. were still hammering out the details about such a meeting, including how it would be conducted were a Myanmar junta representative to attend, Nikkei reported.

On Monday, BenarNews, an RFA-affiliated online news service, contacted Indonesian Foreign Ministry spokesman Teuku Faizasyah to ask about whether such a meeting was being planned, but he said he had no information about it.

BenarNews also contacted Indonesias Director General of ASEAN Cooperation, Sidharto Suryodipuro, and Indonesias permanent representative to ASEAN, Ade Padmo Sarwono, but they did not immediately return calls, text messages and emails.

If this meeting of foreign ministers of ASEAN countries, the U.S. and China happens, Washington and Beijing should push the Myanmar junta to resolve the crisis within the ASEAN framework, said Evan Laksmana, a senior researcher at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Jakarta.

I think the role for the U.S. and China ideally would be to either put pressure or whatever leverage [they] have to push [Myanmar] towards some sort of resolution within the ASEAN framework, not separate from the ASEAN framework, Laksmana told BenarNews on Monday.

He added that if the ASEAN framework is no longer on the table for whatever reason, then other options should be explored.

But right now, what I think is missing from the debate is how to integrate the international community  the U.S., the E.U., and others  with the ASEAN framework, Laksmana said.

The researcher also said that ASEAN may have preferred Beijings involvement in resolving the Myanmar crisis. China has extensive economic and strategic interests not just in Myanmar, but in many countries in the Southeast Asian bloc.

But China, he said, may not want to lead this effort.

China has also built links with NUG, Laksmana said.

He was referring to the parallel, civilian National Unity Government in Myanmar, formed on April 16. No NUG representative was invited to the ASEAN summit, leading many Burmese and rights groups to criticize the exclusion.

I think China is also acknowledging that there is no stable solution without the involvement of the stakeholders beyond the military, and of course, we should not forget that the military in Myanmar is also deeply anti-China as well, Laksmana said.

So I think, having listened to some of these concerns, it will be also hard to have China lead the way.

Reported by BenarNews, an RFA-affiliated online news service.
Armenia's parliament has rejected the candidacy of acting Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian as the new head of government, in an agreed first step toward holding snap parliamentary elections.

Pashinian resigned on April 25, clearing the way for parliamentary elections to be held, in an effort to defuse a political crisis prompted by the outcome of the country's war last year with Azerbaijan.

"One lawmaker voted in favor, three against, and 75 lawmakers abstained. Pashinian is not elected as prime minister," speaker Ararat Mirzoyan announced after the vote on May 3.

A second special parliamentary session is expected to take place on May 10. If Pashinian fails to secure the support of lawmakers for a second time, parliament will be dissolved and President Armen Sarkisian will schedule early elections for next month.

Pashinian has said he plans to continue to fulfill his duties as prime minister until the vote, and plans to take part in the elections.

The move follows recent changes made to the Electoral Code that the opposition has said are aimed at helping Pashinian win.

The changes, worked out by Pashinian's My Step alliance, revamp parts of the Electoral Code introduced in 2016 by the Republican Party of Armenia (HHK), two years before Pashinian was swept into office after leading mass protests against the pro-Russian HHK of former President Serzh Sarkisian.

The amendments will change the country's electoral system to a fully proportional one.

Up until now, Armenians have voted for parties and alliances as well as individual candidates, whereas the next election will be held only on a party-list basis.

Disastrous Defeat

Armenia has been embroiled in a political crisis since Pashinian signed a Russian-brokered cease-fire in November to end the war with Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh.

Pashinian agreed in March to hold the early vote next month. He has indicated that he favors the date of June 20 for the elections.

Opinion polls show that public confidence in Pashinian's government has fallen sharply since then, with its approval rating falling from 60 percent to around 30 percent last month.

Pashinian has come under fire since agreeing to a Moscow-brokered deal with Azerbaijan that took effect on November 10, ending six weeks of fierce fighting in and around the breakaway region of Nagorno-Karabakh that saw ethnic Armenian forces suffer battlefield defeat.

Under the cease-fire, part of Nagorno-Karabakh and all seven districts around it were placed under Azerbaijani administration after almost 30 years of control by Armenians.

Nagorno-Karabakh is internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan, but the ethnic Armenians who make up most of the region's population reject Azerbaijani rule.

With reporting by TASS and Reuters
MINSK -- Belarusian lawyer Syarhey Zikratski, who has defended independent journalists during the ongoing police crackdown on dissent following a disputed presidential election last year, has left the country for Lithuania after his license to practice law was withdrawn in late March.

Zikratski announced his decision to leave Belarus in a Facebook post on May 3, saying that while abroad he will "do everything" he can "to change the situation in Belarus."

In an interview with RFE/RL, Zikratski said that he is already in the Lithuanian capital, Vilnius, along with his wife and two children. He said his family has been under enormous stress since rallies started after the August 9 presidential election that returned authoritarian Alyaksandr Lukashenka, who has run the country since 1994, to power. The opposition says the vote was rigged.

"My departure is not about permanent residence [abroad.] As soon as it is possible to go back to Belarus, we will immediately do so," Zikratski said, stressing that after his license was withdrawn, he could not continue doing his job.

Zikratski gained prominence in recent months after he defended several independent journalists, including reporters for the BelaPAN and Belsat news agencies, as well as the program director of the Belarusian Press Club, Ala Sharko. All faced prosecution for their coverage of mass demonstrations in which hundreds of thousands of people have demanded Lukashenka's resignation.

On March 24, a Justice Ministry commission stripped Zikratski of his license, saying that he lacks the proper qualifications. Zikratski's supporters say the move was made because of his activities, namely defending prominent independent journalists.

The 66-year-old Lukashenka was officially declared the victor of the presidential election by a landslide. That has brought people onto the streets on an almost daily basis since as they demand that the longtime strongman step down and new elections be held.

Security officials have cracked down hard on the demonstrators, arresting thousands, including dozens of journalists who covered the rallies, and pushing most of the top opposition figures out of the country.

Several protesters have been killed in the violence and some rights organizations say there is credible evidence of torture being used by security officials against some of those detained.

Lukashenka has denied any wrongdoing with regard to the election and refuses to negotiate with the opposition on stepping down and holding new elections.

The European Union, United States, Canada, and other countries have refused to recognize Lukashenka as the legitimate leader of Belarus and have slapped him and senior Belarusian officials with sanctions in response to the falsification of the vote and postelection crackdown.
Britain is proposing an international effort to counter Russian propaganda and disinformation, British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said on May 2.



Raab will host a meeting of the foreign ministers from the Group of Seven nations on May 3-5, its first in-person meeting in two years, with tensions with Russia high on the agenda.



Britain will ask the G7 to come together to develop a rapid rebuttal mechanism" against Russian "lies and propaganda or fake news, Raab told reporters ahead of the meeting.



While he didnt provide specifics, Raab said the idea is to "come together to provide a rebuttal -- and frankly to provide the truth -- for the people of this country but also in Russia or China or around the world.



The members of the G7 are Britain, the United States, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, and Japan. Britain has also invited representatives from Australia, India, South Korea, and South Africa to some of the meetings.



Russia used to be part of what was the G8, but its membership was suspended in 2014 due to Moscows forcible annexation of Crimea from Ukraine and support for separatists in eastern Ukraine.



British, U.S., and European officials accuse Russia of spreading disinformation on a range of issues, including elections, COVID-19 vaccines, and NATO.



At the G7, Raab will present Foreign Office-funded research showing pro-Russian trolls are targeting newspapers in democracies to try to create the impression that the public supports Russian aggression toward Ukraine, the Sunday Times reported.



"Pro-Russian trolls are posting comments on Ukraine and other areas, both to influence opinion here but to be played back in the Russian media," Raab told the newspaper.



The London summit will also discuss expanding access to COVID-19 vaccines around the world, supporting girls' education, setting climate action goals, and preventing famine.

Based on reporting by AFP, Reuters, and the Sunday Times
The European Union has summoned Russia's ambassador in Brussels to condemn Moscow's retaliatory decision to bar eight of the bloc's officials from entering the country.

EU officials informed Ambassador Vladimir Chizhov at the meeting "of the strong rejection and firm condemnation by the EU institutions and EU member states of this decision, which was purely politically motivated and lacks any legal justification," according to the European Commission, the EU's executive.

They also noted Russia's expulsion last month of Czech diplomats after Prague threw out alleged Russian intelligence officers over suspected Moscow involvement in a deadly explosion at an ammunition depot in Vrbetice in 2014.

The EU side expressed "grave concern for the cumulative impact of all these decisions on the relations between the EU" and Russia.

Brussels also said the 27-member bloc reserves the right to respond with appropriate measures.

Russia's EU mission said Chizhov "provided additional explanations" on measures taken "in retaliation against the European Union's unilateral decisions."

"The importance was stressed of diplomatic actions to straighten out the current unhealthy situation in the dialogue between Moscow and Brussels," the mission said. "The Russian side reaffirmed its readiness for this work."

Last week, Russia's Foreign Ministry banned eight EU officials, including Vera Jourova, Czech vice president for values and transparency at the European Commission; David Sassoli, the president of the European Parliament; and Jacques Maire, a member of the French delegation at the Council of Europe's Parliamentary Assembly.

The EU imposed sanctions last month on two Russians accused of persecuting gay and lesbian people in the southern Russian region of Chechnya. The EU also slapped sanctions on four senior Russian officials close to President Vladimir Putin the same month.

Russia's Foreign Ministry has accused the EU of fomenting anti-Russian "hysteria."

With reporting by Reuters and AFP
BUDAPEST -- A controversial Chinese university project has renewed concerns about Beijing's growing influence in Hungary and pushed Prime Minister Viktor Orban's close ties to China back into the spotlight.

Hungary signed a strategic agreement with Fudan University on April 27 that would open a campus in Budapest by 2024. The deal would make it the first Chinese university in the European Union and the first foreign outpost for the prestigious Shanghai-based school, which the government says will raise higher-education standards in Hungary.

But growing concern about a lack of transparency over the project, as well as revelations that the Hungarian government is planning to take on a huge, opaque Chinese loan to build the campus, has left the venture embroiled in controversy.

"Until the government provides full disclosure of all the details of the project, we have nothing to negotiate about, which means that we will not give our consent to the construction of the Chinese university," Budapest Mayor Gergely Karacsony told RFE/RL.

Karacsony remains one of the most vocal critics of the project, saying the planned campus places an undue financial burden on taxpayers and that the government is refusing to disclose all of its "decisions, contracts concluded or in preparation, and strategic agreements" regarding Fudan's plans in Budapest.

Documents obtained in early April by Direkt36, a Hungarian investigative-journalism outlet, show that pretax construction costs for the Fudan campus are estimated at $1.8 billion, more than the Hungarian government spent on its entire higher-education system in 2019.

The state plans to finance around 20 percent of the project from its central budget, with the rest of the money provided by a $1.5 billion loan from a Chinese bank. According to the documents, the construction will be carried out using mostly Chinese materials and labor, and Fudan University has agreed that the China State Construction Engineering Corporation -- the largest construction company in the world -- will bid for the lucrative contract.

The area where the government wants to build Fudan University was previously picked to host a Student City that would provide accommodation and other facilities for Hungarian students. Karacsony said that the city's plans were being overridden by the Hungarian government and that he and other high-ranking city officials planned to launch a referendum to block construction of the university. The strategic cooperation agreement "is about giving huge buildings to China for [free]. It serves the expansion of Chinese companies in Europe," he said.

The proposed Fudan University campus is the latest manifestation of China's growing footprint in Hungary, which has expanded since Orban returned to power in 2010 and launched an "Eastern Opening" policy meant to cultivate close ties with Beijing and Moscow in order to attract investment and new economic opportunities for Hungary following the global financial crisis.

While Chinese investment into Hungary and Central Europe as a whole has been slow to materialize, Orban has cultivated a strong relationship with Beijing over the years.

Chinese President Xi Jinping spoke with Orban on the phone on April 29, with Xi praising the nationalist leader for his China-friendly policies and deepened cooperation throughout the pandemic before inviting him to visit Beijing.

"Hungary is -- and will remain -- the centerpiece for Chinese engagement in Central Europe and that's only become more true during the pandemic," Paul Stronski, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, told RFE/RL. "For the Chinese, Hungary is the gateway to the rest of Europe."

A New Opening

Finding the right balance between friendly gestures to Beijing and still maintaining the trust of Western allies has been a unique feature of Hungary's foreign policy. But walking that tightrope has become increasingly hard for Budapest during the pandemic.

The Orban government's decision to move forward with the Fudan campus stirred concern in Washington for its NATO ally, with the U.S. Embassy in Budapest expressing reservations over the project. "The possible opening of Fudan University's first campus in Europe is a cause of concern, as Beijing has a proven track record of using its higher-education institutions to gain influence and stifle intellectual freedom," the embassy said in a statement to the Hungarian newspaper Magyar Hang.

Budapest has also found itself at the heart of several incidents with the EU in which the Hungarian government has sought overtures to Beijing.

Following tit-for-tat sanctions in March between China and the EU over Beijing's human rights abuses in its western Xinjiang region, Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto denounced the measures as "pointless, self-aggrandizing, and harmful."

A few days later, Chinese Defense Minister Wei Fenghe was in Budapest as part of a planned visit and used the opportunity to condemn EU sanctions and praise Hungary's conciliatory approach, claiming that Beijing "has always regarded Hungary as a good brother."

Budapest also reportedly blocked an EU statement the same month that criticized China's new security law in Hong Kong, preventing the bloc from initially joining the United Kingdom and the United States in their own statements over the erosion of human rights in the former British colony.

Hungary is also the only EU member country that hasn't acknowledged potential security concerns posed by Chinese vendors like Huawei to 5G mobile networks. Budapest is even home to Huawei's largest manufacturing base outside of China and hosts a new regional research and development center for the company.

Opposition politicians in Hungary have also raised concerns about the proposed Fudan University campus, pointing to potential debt problems and a potential lack of academic freedom at the institution.

Katalin Cseh, a member of the European Parliament from Hungary's Momentum Movement, told RFE/RL that she asked EU foreign-policy chief Josep Borrell to prevent the establishment of the Budapest campus due to the wider risks it could pose to the bloc.

"Beijing needs 'Trojan horses' within the EU, and the Hungarian government voluntarily offers Hungary for this role," Cseh said. "It is a high risk when a country puts China's interests above the European community's interests, or above its own country's interests."

Between China And The EU

According to Tamas Matura, an assistant professor at Corvinus University in Budapest and the founder of the Central and Eastern European Center for Asian Studies, these moves should be viewed as political gestures to Beijing rather than substantial policy shifts, with the overtures to China functioning as a bargaining chip in Hungary's ongoing standoff with the EU.

"In the framework of Orban's battle with the EU, he needs a big brother like China," Matura told RFE/RL.

Orban has championed what he calls "illiberal democracy" in Hungary and Budapest was singled out in human rights watchdog Freedom House's annual report, published in April, for an "unparalleled democratic deterioration over the past decade."

Orban's Fidesz party has also been suspended from the EU Parliament's European People's Party and, as Budapest and Brussels remain locked in a tug-of-war set off by EU concerns over the rule of law and misuse of the bloc's funds, observers like Matura say the prime minister is using his relationship with China for domestic purposes.

"None of these ideas are coming from China, they are coming from the Hungarian side, but of course Beijing is happy to go along with them," Matura said.

Hungary took out a 20-year, $1.9 billion loan in 2020 from Beijing to build a railway link that would connect Budapest with the Serbian capital, Belgrade, but the project remains controversial at home and across the region due to delays and a lack of transparency.

In April 2020, the Hungarian parliament voted to give the government extraordinary emergency powers on the premise of combating the pandemic, but it also voted to keep all details around the railway project classified, including a feasibility study about its profitability, arguing that it was required in order to secure a loan from the Export-Import Bank of China.

This has led some critics in the country to question the project's true benefit. Further concerns were raised after a significant contract for the construction work went to a consortium owned by billionaire Lorinc Meszaros, Hungary's richest person and a childhood friend of Orban.

Elsewhere, Orban's close relationship with Beijing has helped solidify his standing at home in at least one area.

While public approval in Hungary for China has declined since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Budapest's use of Chinese vaccines has helped give Orban a domestic boost in combating the virus.

Hungary ordered doses of the BioNTech/Pfizer, Moderna, and AstraZeneca vaccines through the EU, but is the only member of the bloc that also approved China's Sinopharm and Russia's Sputnik V vaccine, despite neither shot being approved by the European Medicines Agency.

So far, the move appears to have paid off for the populist Orban, who is looking to increase support ahead of parliamentary elections in 2022. Hungary has fully vaccinated 21.5 percent of its population as of May 2 -- nearly double the EU average -- and has begun to ease coronavirus restrictions.

"There might be a sense of satisfaction right now in the Hungarian government," Matura said. "A satisfaction that ties with Beijing paid off when they needed help fighting the pandemic, which were also helpful ahead of the general elections next year."

The Home Front

Analysts say the Orban government's embrace of Beijing is difficult to separate from the shifts taking place within Hungary's domestic politics.

The strategic agreement with Fudan University also coincided with recent changes to the management of Hungarian universities, which not only transfers billions in state assets to those close to the prime minister, but also could enable Orban and his supporters to exert long-term control over public education in the country.

The Fudan announcement also comes shortly after the Central European University -- founded by billionaire George Soros and considered one of Hungary's premier postgraduate institutions -- was effectively forced out of the country in 2018 after amendments were passed to a higher education law that were widely seen as targeting the university.

The European Court of Justice said in October 2020 that the move against the university violated Hungary's commitments under the World Trade Organization and infringed upon the provisions of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights relating to academic freedom. Despite that ruling, the Central European University remains based in Vienna.

All this leaves Hungary at a crucial junction as it gears up for next year's elections, Stronski says.

The shifts in the country's domestic and foreign policies over the last decade have largely been led by Orban and should he and his Fidesz party lose in 2022, many of those changes could see a swift reversal.

"Having Orban in place for the last decade has allowed the Chinese to invest in him and also in the Hungarian elite," Stronski said. "If the government changes hands there's no certainty that this China policy would stay in place. There isn't much support in Hungary for these pro-China policies beyond Orban's current government."
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab have discussed issues related to Iran ahead of the start of a G7 ministers meeting in London but continued to downplay rumors swirling of imminent prisoner swaps with Tehran.

The United Kingdom currently chairs the Group of Seven (G7) leading industrial countries and is involved in ongoing multilateral efforts to revive the 2015 nuclear agreement that curbed Iranian nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief.

Both Washington and London have dismissed or downplayed disputed reports from Iran of deals for prisoner swaps and the unfreezing of billions of dollars in assets.

Both Washington and London have nevertheless acknowledged their ongoing efforts to seek the release of nationals held in Iran, but avoided linking them to other issues.

"I am determined to bring every detained American home," Blinken said alongside Raab in London after describing reports of a deal on a prisoner swap as "not accurate."

Iran is known to be holding at least four Americans: father and son Baquer and Siamak Namazi, environmentalist Morad Tahbaz, and entrepreneur Emad Shargi.

The British Foreign Office downplayed Iranian reports on May 2 that a deal had been reached to exchange disputed assets for the release of dual British-Iranian national Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, who has been held in Iran since 2016.

British officials on May 3 suggested the leaked reports were "disinformation" and sought to avoid linking a 400 million-pound ($550 million) historical debt to prerevolutionary Iran to Zaghari-Ratcliffe's case.

"It's incumbent on Iran unconditionally to release those who are held arbitrarily and, in our view, unlawfully, and the reports, I'm afraid, are not yet accurate in terms of the suggestion of her imminent release," Raab said on May 3.

The U.S. State Department on May 2 rejected as "not true" unsourced Iranian reports claiming a deal on a prisoner swap and $7 billion in frozen Iranian assets had been agreed.

The Iranian reports suggested Iranian nationals jailed in the United States might also be part of a deal.

The Guardian newspaper quoted "sources inside" Tehran's Evin prison as saying two dual Iranian-American prisoners had been moved to a new location inside the facility where past inmates were put prior to release. But that information could not immediately be confirmed.

The UN Security Council permanent members plus Germany wrapped up a third round of high-level talks on May 1 focused on bringing the United States and Iran back into full compliance with the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) that President Donald Trump pulled out of in 2018.

Prisoner swaps were a feature of the JCPOA nearly six years ago.

With reporting by AP and BBC
On 14 March, 2020, Spanish PM Pedro Sanchez, appearing before the television cameras, announced the state of alarm in Spain, an unprecedented measure to try to stop the health emergency caused by the coronavirus crisis. What followed were a series of harsh restrictions that Spain has lived with for the last year: a night curfew, mobility limitations or the banning of mass gatherings, among others.

Now the state of alarm has barely a week left to live and on Sunday, 9 May it will come to an end.

What will the outlook be like from then on? What Covid measures and restrictions against Covid-19 will remain in force? Will new ones be decreed? Without the legal umbrella of the state, some regions, such as Andalucia, find themselves with their hands tied.

Once the national state of alarm lapses, the curfew, the perimeter lockdowns and the maximum of six people in meetings will end.

This coming week will be key to knowing what new measures Andalucia will take after 9 May. The regions may impose restrictive measures if they pass the test of their Superior Courts of Justice, and it will be the judges who endorse or rule against the regional measures.

"One problem is that judges have different measures in different parts of Spain," says Joaquin Urias, professor of constitutional law.

The Junta de Andalucias Minister of Health, Jesus Aguirre, has said that region is considering a modification of the Andalusian Public Health Law to assume powers in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic, if there is no national regulation that empowers regions to make decisions after the state of alarm subsides.

The Junta does not consider that the state of alarm should be extended, but it does believe it essential that the national government provides the tools so that regions can act in the face of the pandemic.

President of the Junta, Juanma Moreno, spoke of a situation of "confusion" after the end of the state of alarm. "If we have an outbreak in a municipality we will run out of tools to control it," he said last week.

Moreno insisted that PM Pedro Sanchez must urgently convene a conference of regional presidents to address this situation.
Human Rights Watch (HRW) says legal amendments being considered by Kyrgyz lawmakers would put the political opposition and human rights groups at greater risk in the Central Asian nation.

The rights group said in a statement on May 3 that the amendments -- proposed by the Interior Ministry and approved by Kyrgyz lawmakers in the first reading last month -- would broaden the scope for the criminal prosecution of organizations deemed extremist" to include those found to incite political enmity, along with national, ethnic, or racial enmity, and to make financing such extremist organizations a criminal offense.

Adding vague language about extremism and political enmity to Kyrgyz law will open the door to abuse, putting peaceful groups critical of government policy at enormous risk, said Syinat Sultanalieva, Central Asia researcher at HRW. Kyrgyz authorities should not introduce overbroad criminal law provisions that endanger freedom of association and speech.

The draft law will enter into force after it passes two more parliamentary readings and is signed by President Sadyr Japarov, who took over the former Soviet republic in the wake of a deep political crisis sparked by mass protests against official results of parliamentary elections in October that led to resignation of Japarov's predecessor, Sooronbai Jeenbekov.

HRW said in the statement that it had found that, despite some reforms, existing Kyrgyz laws on countering extremism have been applied unevenly and that its overly broad definition allowed for its misuse against political opponents, journalists, and religious and ethnic minorities.

"The Kyrgyz Criminal Code already contains articles that provide severe penalties for political crimes, such as attempting to violently overthrow the government," the HRW statement said.

Following months of political tensions, the Kyrgyzstan government should show its citizens and the world that it still supports strong human rights standards. These amendments to the legal codes should be rejected if Kyrgyzstan hopes to stay true to its international human rights commitments, Sultanalieva said.

Japarov has praised the constitutional changes, which he initiated, saying they are needed to create a strong central branch of government to "establish order."

In a March report, the watchdog Freedom House singled out Kyrgyzstan as being among nations recording the biggest losses in scores for political rights and civil liberties.

The report said Japarov has "advanced a new draft constitution that could reshape Kyrgyzstan's political system in the mold of its authoritarian neighbors."
BISHKEK -- Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan have completed the withdrawal of their military units from border areas as part of an agreed pullback following a series of deadly clashes last week.

The Kyrgyz Border Service said on May 3 that the situation in the area is calm and stable after the withdrawal of the military units.

"The sides have completed the withdrawal of additional military units and equipment from the border.... The joint military commission consisting of officers from the defense structures of Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan continue inspecting the areas left by the additional military forces and equipment," the Border Service statement said.

On May 2, the head of Tajikistan's State Committee for National Security, Saimumin Yatimov, said while visiting the country's Vorukh exclave within Kyrgyzstan that Tajik military forces had been withdrawn from the border.

Kyrgyzstan says that during the April 28-29 clashes, 36 Kyrgyz citizens were killed, including a 5-year-old boy, 183 were injured, and 50,000 people fled the area.

According to Bishkek, 78 private homes, two schools, one medical point, two border checkpoints, a kindergarten, 10 gasoline stations, a police building, and eight shops were destroyed in Kyrgyzstan's southwestern region of Batken.

While the situation on the ground appeared calmer, moves behind the scenes threaten to keep tensions simmering.

The Tajik Prosecutor-General's Office said on May 3 that it had launched a probe against a group of Kyrgyz military personnel, accusing them of "instigating or conducting an aggressive war," and the "murder of two or more people while carrying out their duties."

In a statement, the prosecutor claimed that Kyrgyz border guards incited Kyrgyz villagers to throw stones at Tajik workers involved in the "agreed" installation of surveillance cameras at a water-distribution point near Tajikistan's Vorukh exclave within Kyrgyz territory. It added that they also tried to cut down a pole upon which a Tajik worker was perched as he was installing a camera.

The statement comes a day after the Kyrgyz Interior Ministry said it had launched 11 criminal cases into "mass disorder, crimes against peace, hooliganism, the destruction and damage of private property, Illegal border crossings, and murder."

The Committee for Emergencies in Tajikistan's northern Sughd region said on May 3 that during the clashes, 14 private houses were destroyed, while two houses and a maintenance building were damaged in three neighborhoods of the city of Isfara.

According to the committee, a school building and a private house were partially damaged in the village of Ovchikalacha in the Bobojon Gafurov district.

The statement did not mention human losses.

However, correspondents from RFE/RL's Tajik Service in the area have reported that at least 16 Tajik nationals were killed and at least 90 were injured.

The violence apparently followed a dispute over the installation of surveillance cameras at a water distribution point near the Vorukh exclave, drawing in security forces from both countries.

Kyrgyz security officials at one point accused Tajik forces of using MI-24 helicopter gunships to shoot at Kyrgyz villages.

The meeting of the Tajik and Kyrgyz delegations followed a telephone conversation between Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov and his Tajik counterpart, Emomali Rahmon.

The European Union, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, and Russia have all urged both sides to respect the cease-fire agreement.

Both Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan host Russian military bases.

Human Rights Watch has called for an immediate investigation to hold either side responsible for laws-of-war violations against civilians.

Like many other border areas in Central Asia, almost half of the 970-kilometer-long Kyrgyz-Tajik border has not been demarcated, leading to tensions for the past 30 years.
When human rights lawyer Karinna Moskalenko learned that fellow attorney Ivan Pavlov had been detained in Moscow, alarm bells rang.

"This is a real state of emergency," Moskalenko, who 20 years ago was the first Russian lawyer to speak before the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) and to win a case from Russia, wrote on Facebook on April 30.

"A lot depends -- for him and for us all -- on how we act now," Moskalenko wrote. "For my part, I am sending the alarm to the headquarters of the International Commission of Jurists in Geneva. And I am asking this global organization to act immediately."

In a post the same day, journalist and human rights activist Zoya Svetova called the prominent defense attorney "a knight among lawyers."

"Pavlov is an absolutely fearless and professional lawyer who is also sensitive and loyal," Svetova wrote. She urged "a majority of bold, honest, and professional colleagues" to come to his aid and to the aid of the legal profession in Russia generally.

Pavlov, who specializes in cases involving state secrets, was questioned in Moscow and is under investigation for allegedly disclosing classified information about the ongoing investigation of former journalist Ivan Safronov. Safronov is accused of giving classified information about Russian arms sales to the Czech Republic, which he denies.

Also on April 30, law enforcement searched the St. Petersburg office of Pavlov's legal-aid NGO Team 29, the home of the group's IT specialist, the apartment of Pavlov's wife, and Pavlov's dacha.

At a court hearing the same day, a judge granted a prosecution request that Pavlov be barred from using the Internet or communicating with witnesses in the Safronov case.

'A Bone In The Throat'

The Telegram channel SOTA posted a copy of the complaint that triggered the case, which was signed by Federal Security Service (FSB) Director Aleksandr Bortnikov and addressed to the head of the Investigative Committee, Aleksandr Bastrykin.

Pavlov's lawyer and longtime Team 29 colleague, Yevgeny Smirnov, wrote on Telegram that Bortnikov rarely signs such documents himself.

Lawyer Irina Biryukova made headlines in 2018 when she briefly left Russia because of threats when she was working on a case of alleged torture in a prison in the Yaroslavl region. She told RFE/RL the case against Pavlov was a demonstration of power by the security services aimed at the entire human rights community.

"He has been like a bone in the throat of the security agencies," Biryukova told RFE/RL. "Any pressure against a lawyer -- particularly one involved in political cases -- is pressure against human rights as a whole. This is an attempt to show us all that now the security forces can do anything they want without consequences. To show that they can come for any dissenter at any moment. It is pressure not only against lawyers, but against the entire human rights community."

"And I'm sure this is not the end of it," she added. "Toward the autumn, we'll feel all its charms. Things are not going to get any better."

Russia is preparing for elections to the State Duma, the lower house of parliament, which must be held by September 19. President Vladimir Putin's ruling United Russia party has been polling at historically low levels, and many observers link this to the government's latest crackdown on opposition leader Aleksei Navalny and his colleagues, as well as on other dissenters and independent media outlets.

Pavlov had a long-running conflict with the FSB, and particularly with Aleksandr Cheban, the FSB investigator handling the Safronov case, Smirnov said. A Team 29 post on Telegram on April 30 quoted Smirnov as saying Cheban had told Pavlov, "You are standing on our throat, and we will do everything we can to put you in prison."

Team 29 lawyer Maksim Olenichev told RFE/RL that "Ivan was threatened many times, since his human rights activity centered on defending innocent people from state pressure."

Pavlov, 50, was born in St. Petersburg and graduated from the St. Petersburg University law department in 1997. He immediately became involved in his first major case, defending Russian Navy Captain Aleksandr Nikitin, who was accused of publishing classified information about emergency situations on Russian nuclear submarines. Nikitin was acquitted by the Russian Supreme Court in 2000. Nikitin was the first person in the Soviet or post-Soviet eras to be acquitted of a treason charge.

Freedom Of Information

More recently, Pavlov defended Svetlana Davydova, a woman from the Smolensk region who was accused in 2015 of passing military information to Ukraine the previous year. The charges against her were dropped for lack of evidence that a crime had been committed. In addition, the Prosecutor-General's Office sent her a written apology.

Also in 2015, Pavlov created Team 29, which was devoted to"attaining justice in cases involving freedom of information." In 2019, the group won a Supreme Court case that enabled a Russian to get information about his grandfather, who was executed in 1933.

Pavlov also defended physicist Viktor Kudryavtsev, who died of cancer on April 29 while awaiting trial on treason charges. Pavlov was able to get him released from pretrial custody, which he later claimed had "completely damaged his health."

Pavlov has also been defending Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK) against the government's efforts to have it labeled "extremist." Some observers believe the case against Pavlov could be connected to his involvement in that high-profile case.

Human rights advocate Pavel Chikov wrote on Telegram that the Justice Ministry had already twice complained to the Petersburg Chamber of Advocates alleging that Pavlov had revealed secret information in connection with the Safronov case.

'In The Face Of Outrage'

"Both times the Petersburg chamber refused to take disciplinary actions," Chikov wrote. For its part, the chamber on April 30 published an open letter to Bastrykin, Bortnikov, and other senior officials saying the case against Pavlov "was being created by representatives of the investigative authorities with blatant and intentional violations of Russia's criminal-procedural legislation."

"The legal community cannot reconcile itself with the clearly illegal practices of the investigative authorities in forcibly taking confidential information from lawyers involved in criminal defense," the letter stated. It added that investigators' actions "will inevitably lead to the destruction of the legal foundations of our state."

Pskov region legislator and opposition politician Lev Shlosberg told RFE/RL that the cases Pavlov had taken on in his career involving charges of "treason, terrorism, and extremism are usually cases that were initiated by the Russian government to cover up political persecution."

"They are an attempt to destroy -- legally, and sometimes physically -- political opponents," he added. "Defending the accused in such cases is a direct fight against the government in its bid to destroy dissent."

In 2016, when Shlosberg became the first laureate of the annual Boris Nemtsov Foundation prize, he donated the entire 10,000 euro ($12,070) prize to Team 29. According to Team 29's annual report, they spent almost all the money defending Natalya Sharina, the former director of Moscow's Library of Ukrainian Literature, who was accused of purchasing extremist materials.

"These people are real defenders of the law in the face of outrage," Shlosberg said in his acceptance speech. "They are the defenders of the citizen in the face of the despotism of the state. They are working hard in the name of freedom and democracy in our country."

Written by Robert Coalson based on reporting from Russia by Anna Yarovaya and Svetlana Prokopyeva of the North.Realities desk of RFE/RL's Russian Service
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken says Washington wants a stable relationship with Moscow but that will depend on Kremlin policies and how aggressively it decides to act.

Speaking on May 3 after meeting with his British counterpart in London, Blinken repeated past statements from President Joe Biden and the previous administration, saying that the United States did not want to escalate tensions with Russia.

"President Biden's been very clear for a long time, including before he was president, that if Russia chooses to act recklessly or aggressively, we'll respond," he said.

"But we're not looking to escalate: We would prefer to have a more stable, more predictable relationship," he said. "And if Russia moves in that direction, so will we."

Blinken's comments on Russia come as tensions continue to grow over issues including military threats to Ukraine, the SolarWinds cyberattack on U.S. networks, and Russia's treatment of jailed opposition activist Aleksei Navalny.

Blinken's meeting with British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab comes as ministers from the Group of Seven (G7) countries gathered in person for the first time in two years.

In addition to Russia, other subjects on the G7 agenda include the U.S. withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan, Iran's nuclear program, and a trade deal in the wake of London's withdrawal from the European Union.

At a news conference, Raab said Britain stood "shoulder to shoulder" with the United States on issues such as Afghanistan and Iran. He said London also agreed China needs to adhere to international commitments.

On China, Blinken said the West was not trying to restrain Beijing.

"It is not our purpose to try to contain China or to hold China down," he said.

Based on reporting by Reuters, dpa, and AP
The Centro de Arte Contemporaneo (CAC) Malaga hosts Borderline, the first exhibition of artist Ana S. Valderrabanos. Over fifty works on display seek to reconcile art and craftsmanship with the mind playing the main role at the exhibition which runs until 20 June. The works are displayed in the Sala Coracha of the Museo del Patrimonio Municipal in Paseo Reding and demonstrate a personal influence over the art and a more intellectual influence on the craftmanship. These are supported by the artist's thoughts and feelings expressed in calligraphy.

Inspired by paintings or photography, Valderrabanos uses thread as a tool to draw with. In this way she not only captures quotes and her thoughts but also alludes to phrases that create complicity between people. Her works are influenced by artists such as Klimt and Schiele, as well as the American figurative painter Michael Carson and Milt Kobayashi.

Valderrabanos (born in Cordoba in 1969) uses the figure of a woman as a tool to represent the states of the soul, calm or pleasure. Her female figures are anonymous with various poses that represent more intimate or psychological thoughts. There are also works that allude to the Covid pandemic.

The artist uses various techniques with oils on a base of wood that allow free backwards and forwards movement, scratching and smudging the vibrant colours of the scenes depicting women reflecting the state of the soul such as in her series Area de Descanso. The exhibition includes large format works combined with embroidery and untreated canvases.

While the smaller works are expressed with thread, fabrics such as antique sheets, special garments such as a girl's nightgown which she uses to pay tribute to Louise Bourgeois and a autobiographical shirt with phrases from her loved ones and her inspirations are also used.

Reflections and irony

Arte y humor highlights the quote by Maurizio Cattelan: "I think humour and irony include tragedy in itself, as if they were two sides of the same coin. In both cases, laughter is a Trojan horse to enter into direct contact with the unconscious." In Jung she reflects on self-knowledge, the collective unconscious and the importance of introspection based on the thoughts of Carl Gustav Jung with quotes such as "Who looks outside dreams; who looks inside awakes." In Art Blessed she addresses the benefits of having art around: "The appreciation of art helps us to understand life, ourselves and our environment".

Ana S. Valderrabanos is an artist and graphic illustrator. She graduated in Fine Arts specialising in painting from the Santa Isabel de Hungria Faculty in Seville in 2002. Her career includes solo exhibitions such as Hilo, Sala La Revuelta, Seville (2015); Area de descanso, Murnau Art Gallery, Seville (2009) and ROJO 1925, Abades 47, Seville (2018).
MANSFIELD -- Matt Finfgeld is not predicting a mad dash to the polls Tuesday for his first effort as Richland County Board of Elections director.

"We are hoping to get to 10 percent (voter participation)," Finfgeld said Monday as elections workers dodged rain drops in getting voting equipment ready for moving to polling places. There is a 70 percent chance of rain on Tuesday, as well.

"Absentee voting has been very slow," he said. "We have 371 absentee ballots thus far, either by mail or in person. With around 39,000 voters eligible on Tuesday, that puts us around 1 percent.

"It's a big difference from last year," said Finfgeld, who has worked at the local elections board on a part-time basis since 1992. He took over as director in April, replacing his mother, Paulette Hankins, who retired after 26 years in the top spot.

In the 2020 primary during a presidential election year, 22.28 percent of eligible voters cast ballots with 17,802 out of 79,981 eligible. In November, there was 72.9 percent voter turnout -- 60,336 out of 82,764 eligible.

Finfgeld's prediction for Tuesday is in keeping with the last three "local only" primaries in 2017, 2013 and 2009 when voter turnout was 10.68 percent, 12.72 percent and 14.31 percent.

There are no countywide issues on the primary ballot, which Finfgeld said impacts turnout.

"Absolutely, it does make a difference," he said. "If levies on the ballot represent new money, turnouts are also a lot higher. That's why we are predicting a higher turnout in Washington Township."

A new $9 million home for the Washington Township fire department and roads department is planned if voters approve a bond issue Tuesday.

The City of Mansfield has a Republican primary for an at-large City Council seat between Stephanie Zader and Dr. Christopher Beale, as well as income tax renewal requests for the PRIDE and "Pothole Haters" taxes.

Voters in the City of Ontario will decide whether that community will become a charter city on Tuesday.

Regardless of turnout, Finfgeld said the local elections officials are ready.

"We are ready to go. Just trying to stay dry," he said.

Not every precinct in the county will be open on Tuesday due to a limited number of candidates and issues. Polls will be open 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
COLUMBUS  Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost is alerting consumers to beware of some misleading tactics by over-the-counter hearing aid companies that make false claims of performance and that they have the governments approval.

There are a lot of options for Ohioans that need hearing assistance, but quite honestly some of these products are not much better than putting your hand up behind your ear, Yost said. Be careful and do your research so you dont add a money loss to a hearing loss."

Its estimated that nearly 1.1 million Ohioans and nearly one in eight Americans suffer from hearing loss.

Congress legalized the sale of over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids in 2017. Currently there are no such products that have the approval of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, however this has not stopped some companies from making false claims that they have been FDA-approved.

These OTC products are not yet required to inform consumers their products are not intended for adults or children with severe hearing loss.

May is Better Hearing Month, so to raise awareness, Attorney General Yost has issued the following guidance when purchasing hearing aids and similar products:

Be evaluated by a medical professional, such as an ear, nose and throat specialist, ear specialist or any licensed physician. These professionals can assist you in the proper products that will help.

Hearing aids should be fitted by an expert, such as a doctor or audiologist.

Check the Better Business Bureaus website (bbb.org) to see the ratings of a hearing aid retailer before purchasing the product.

Remember, the FDA has not approved ANY over-the-counter hearing aids.

If a deal seems too good to be true, it likely is!
Editor

I have been editor of the Rockdale Citizen since 1996 and editor of the Newton Citizen since it began publication in 2004. I am also currently executive editor of the Clayton News Daily, Henry Daily Herald and Jackson Progress-Argus.
DES MOINES  Farm interests, fuel retailers and others whipsawed a state Senate panel Thursday over a legislative proposal seeking to push more use of renewable fuels that proponents hailed as an economic boon for Iowa-based industries and critics panned as a government intrusion that would cost drivers more at the pump.

Five members of a Senate Ways and Means subcommittee heard over 75 minutes of impassioned testimony on a bill Gov. Kim Reynolds introduced to promote more ethanol and biodiesel sales in Iowa, but that House Speaker Pat Grassley, R-New Hartford, conceded to reporters is a difficult push as the 2021 legislative session pushes toward adjournment.

Its a pro-consumer, pro-Iowa, pro-national security bill, said Reynolds legislative liaison Logan Shine in promoting an amended Senate File 549. His comments came one day after the governor told Statehouse reporters she has not given up on her plan to boost the sale of corn-based ethanol and biodiesel derived from soybeans even though the concept requiring gas stations and convenience stores to offer fuel with a 15 percent ethanol blend by 2026 has been revised in hopes of striking a legislative compromise.

Shine said the bill raises the fuel standard in Iowa without telling retail locations they cant sell certain products and maintain consumer choice. But petroleum marketers and retailers took issue with claims the reworked bill represents a compromise and insisted it still was a costly government mandate that will drive some stations out of business.

This new version continues to have restrictions and things in place that are really going to upend the fuel market in the state of Iowa, said Tom Cope, a lobbyist for Caseys convenience stores  one of a group of speakers who told legislators the requirements would force expensive infrastructure upgrades that could not be accomplished under the bills timeline and with the level of grant money being included to assist locations that would need to crack concrete to meet the new demands.

Provisions of bills being fashioned in the House and Senate would push fuel retailers to phase out gasoline and prioritize biofuels by requiring them to have a special-use label for both E-0 fuel without ethanol and gasoline containing a 10 percent ethanol blend, and at least one nozzle for E15 gasoline with a 15 percent ethanol blend. Beginning Jan. 1, 2025, retail restrictions would expand to allow only one nozzle to dispense fuels below E15. Similar restrictions would be in place for biodiesel sales.

The most commonly used ethanol blend now is E10.

Other provisions cover biodiesel sales during summer and winter months, requirements for state agencies operating vehicles powered by renewable fuels, new tax credits for retailers that sell biofuels and incentives for infrastructure upgrades that dispense up to E85 and B-20 fuels.

Its going to drive retailers out of business. Theres no doubt about it, said Jason McDermott, a Cascade retailer who operates five service stations.

Representatives of pipeline companies told subcommittee members their terminals currently lack the biofuel blending capacity to meet the higher standard and are not eligible under the proposed state infrastructure grant program. Trucking industry officials warned that Iowa would become a pass-through state due to higher prices spurred by the new requirements at a time when renewable fuel sales in Iowa already rose despite the COVID-19 pandemic.

We believe our customers will fill up outside of Iowa, said Michael Whitney of Pilot/Flying J stations that are Iowas largest diesel retailers. We believe that this policy harms consumer choice, will drive up prices and will force consumers to fill up outside of the state of Iowa. We think that this goes in the wrong direction. We think that right now the policy is working and so if it isnt broke, we dont understand why it needs to be fixed.

However, representatives from corn, soybean and biorefinery sectors praised the bill as good for Iowas farms, economy and air quality. They said it promotes needed improvements that benefit consumers and enhances Iowas position as the nations leader in renewable fuels.

Theres no boogeyman here, said Matt Steinfeldt of the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation. These are tried and true methods. They have worked in other states and they have moved the needle.

Members of the Fuel Choice Coalition made up of fuel distributors, retailers, wholesalers and transportation groups estimated the proposed mandate  which begins by requiring E10 immediately and then later requires E15 or higher in 2025 at all but one fuel position  will cost businesses at least $1 billion in infrastructure upgrades to meet the requirements. They also contended there are provisions exempting farmers from some of the requirements.

Sen. Annette Sweeney, R-Alden, was among the GOP subcommittee members who voted to forward SF 549 to the full committee for consideration, but Sen. Pam Jochum, D-Dubuque, said she had too many unanswered questions to support the current language that contained too little money and too little time to do the needed upgrades.

Sen. Dan Dawson, R-Council Bluffs, chairman of the subcommittee and the Senate Ways and Means Committee, said he was advancing the measure because he did not want the tax-writing panel to be greased to go to punch a bill through, nor was it designed to be a kill committee. What the future looks like, I cannot tell.
Rocky Mount, NC (27804)

Today

Cloudy this morning. Scattered thunderstorms developing this afternoon. High 88F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%..

Tonight

Thunderstorms this evening followed by occasional showers overnight. Low 71F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.
At a Buffalo appearance to encourage Covid-19 vaccinations on Thursday, a reporter asked Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo about his ability to govern and maneuver New York's political shoals amid continuing calls for his impeachment or resignation.

His answer was "not hypothetical," he replied, especially after just wrapping up a $212 billion state budget for 2021-22.

"Since that occurred," he said, referring to controversy over his handling of pandemic death data and accusations of sexual harassment, "look at what I have done. There is no greater test of the premise. If you're going to have trouble governing ... it would be in the budget.

"That was the litmus test of your question," he added.

Indeed, Cuomo commanded his usual position at the head of the negotiating table in early 2021 for what he called "the most complicated budget in modern history [with] the greatest state need ever." As he noted Thursday in his first in-person encounter with Buffalo reporters in months, passing a budget to guide the state through the next fiscal year remains his most important responsibility.

But as most Republicans and even fellow Democrats abandon him, the governor in recent days is no longer questioned about national issues or whether he will someday run for president. Now he faces queries about an allegation he groped an aide in the Governor's Mansion, or about a federal investigation into charges his administration covered up data regarding Covid-19 deaths in nursing homes.

His poll numbers have weakened, though not plummeted (a growing number of New Yorkers view him negatively, but most dont think he should resign). And as multiple accounts of alleged sexual harassment dominated front pages for weeks on end, Cuomo  claiming "Covid restrictions"  isolated himself from reporters. Even during his Thursday event at the Belle Center on the city's West Side, he defended himself against the newest New York Times story indicating his staff covered up the data about nursing home deaths (which he denies).

It all points to a new  and defensive  phase in Cuomo's long political career.

"I would look at the other side of the coin, his lack of support among Democrats," said James W. Moor, a veteran political scientist who teaches at SUNY Geneseo. "Obviously, he has serious problems of political power."

Crafting a budget with a Democratic Senate and Assembly should hardly rank as a major accomplishment for any governor at the peak of his reign, he said, especially a fellow Democrat.

"I see him as in a very weakened position," Moor added.

State Sen. Patrick M. Gallivan, R-Elma, says Cuomo occupies a "compromised position." His long refusal to meet with reporters "goes against open government, goes against democracy ... and further takes away from the public trust," he said.

A budget that increased spending and raised taxes for the wealthy might have been more strenuously resisted by a Cuomo of old, he noted.

"If you look at the result, his actions were significantly different than the 10 other budgets," Gallivan said. "I would ask: why?"

Still, Cuomo's Thursday re-emergence into a still tightly controlled setting in Buffalo underscores the inherent power of his office. He summoned a host of allies, state employees and associates who applauded his speech when prompted by a staff aide. And as he used the power of his office to urge young people to get vaccinated against Covid-19, he surrounded himself with allies from the Black and minority communities that continue to provide his strongest support.

Significantly, he was flanked almost entirely by Black leaders, including Mayor Byron W. Brown, Assembly Majority Leader Crystal D. Peoples-Stokes; Rev. Mark E. Blue, president of the Buffalo NAACP; and Eunice A. Lewin, a SUNY trustee who helped organize the event.

"I want to thank the governor for his great leadership and partnership throughout the pandemic and for your continued commitment to Buffalo and Western New York," Brown said.

Peoples-Stokes, who has called for investigations concerning Cuomo to reach their conclusions, praised the governor for ensuring that vaccinations are distributed throughout the state in an equitable manner.

"Folks know that every time you come here it's good news," she said.

And even some Democrats who have called for his resignation, like Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins, have publicly appeared with him in recent weeks to praise the newly enacted budget.

Albany veterans like William L. Parment, who spent 28 years representing Chautauqua County in the Assembly before retiring in 2010, says the governor was right to resist calls to resign as controversy initially swirled around him.

"I don't like to come to that conclusion, but he has the obligation to be the executive of our state government," he said. "There is no more critical time for the governor to be involved than in the budget process."

But now from afar, Parment says his long Capitol experience causes him to follow more events ahead. Parment said he will closely watch the nursing home data investigation launched by state Attorney General Letitia James, whose backing by Cuomo is widely credited with landing her the Democratic nomination for attorney general in 2018. He believes her appointment of former acting Manhattan U.S. Attorney Joon H. Kim, who was instrumental in the prosecution of former Cuomo aide Joseph Percoco, will prove key.

"He's not new to the beat," Parment said.

But the former assemblyman has also been around long enough to appreciate the governor's powerful position after almost 40 years on the statewide scene.

"He's wounded, no question," Parment said. "But he's a take charge micromanager with a strong personality. If he can survive the investigations and recriminations and go forward, I think he could still dominate state government."
Marblehead - Dorothy G. (Harrison) Hogan, beloved wife of the late L. Timothy Hogan, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, May 30. She was born in Providence, R.I., to John and Margaret (Hill) Harrison. She grew up in Salem and spent many summers in Maine. She graduated from St. Mary's H
As a crew of firefighters from National City rushed in an engine to a house that was fully engulfed in flames last April, a dispatcher alerted them to a concerning report: a 911 caller heard screams coming from inside the garage.

We knew we were going to go right into rescue mode, said National City fire Capt. Derek Jones, who was part of the crew that responded to the fire in the outlying Paradise Hills neighborhood of San Diego, just east of National City.

Your heart starts pumping, but you know what you trained for, Jones said. You know what to do.

That night, Jones and fellow National City firefighter Nick Black would enter the house, which was filled with smoke and cluttered with personal items, and help carry out two residents, saving the life of one of the men. The second resident died at a hospital.

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Jones and Black were recognized Feb. 5 by the National City Fire Department and City Council for putting themselves in harms way to rescue the two residents trapped in the house. They received a Life-Saving Award, a recognition the city has given to employees and residents an estimated 12 times since 1971.

National City fire Capt. Derek Jones (second from left) and firefighter Nick Black (second from right) received a Life-Saving Award from the National City Fire Department and City Council. (David Hernandez/Union-Tribune)

Jones, a 29-year veteran, and Black, who has been with the department for four years, said they didnt think twice about the dangers. They gave credit to the amount of training National City firefighters go through, saying training and instincts took over that night.

We were just going through that playbook in our head, Black said.

The first report about the fire on Calle Cumbre was called in about 10:30 p.m.

When Jones, Black and fellow engineer Jeff Bogle arrived in Engine 31, the front of the house was engulfed in flames, which were shooting out the front door and windows.

Everything was blown out, Jones said. It looked very bad.

Once firefighters got a handle on the flames, it was go time. Jones, Black and two San Diego Fire-Rescue firefighters used a Halligan bar to pry open the metal security screen and front door.

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Inside they pushed past heat and smoke, using a fire hose to douse the interior as they went in deeper to search for the residents.

There was zero visibility, Jones said.

They encountered lots of furniture and knee-high stacks of personal items including newspapers and clothing  clutter that left no clear pathway inside the house, San Diego Battalion Chief Rick Ballard told a freelance reporter that night.

We started to walk over stuff, Black said.

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Jones added: We were basically crawling over furniture to locate the victims.

At times, they used whatever you could put your hands on to not fall over, Black said.

The first resident was found lying in a hallway near a bedroom door. He appeared to be unconscious.

We were pretty sure he was dead, Jones said.

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Black and a San Diego firefighter carried the man to a waiting gurney outside, at one point tripping over clutter. As they fell, Black noticed the man taking a small breath.

Thats when we knew he was still alive and (we) needed to pick up the pace a bit, Black said.

Seconds later, Black hopped on an ambulance and went with paramedics and the victim to UC San Diegos burn center. The man would survive.

Meanwhile, Jones and a San Diego fire captain went back inside the house to rescue the second resident, who was found behind a couch in the living room under a bookshelf that had apparently fallen on him. He, too, appeared to be unconscious.

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He was carried out to the front yard, where firefighters and paramedics started CPR before taking him to UCSDs burn center. He died not long after midnight.

The man was later identified as Alex Ballisteros, an accomplished artist who served in the Air Force, according to family members who spoke with NBC7.

Neighbors said the residents cats also died in the fire, which fire investigators determined was accidental in nature. The cause, however, was undetermined.

Email: david.hernandez@sduniontribune.com

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Phone: (619) 293-1876

Twitter: @D4VIDHernandez
Copper futures hit highs not seen in a decade last month and are up 90 percent over last year. The good news for small investors is that there are cheap, though risky, ways to jump on the copper bandwagon.

The government; business pledges to reduce carbon emissions; a copper buying spree by China; and an infrastructure plan for the United States all bode well for the prospect of a copper boom.

Copper is used in a vast array of consumer and industrial applications. It can be found in everything from electrical wiring to batteries, pipes, motors, household appliances, heating and cooling systems, jewelry, and many more.

American Jobs Plan

President Joe Biden proposed a plan to repair and improve the nations infrastructure at the end of March. He pushed that plan again in an address to a joint session of Congress this week.

Under Bidens American Jobs Plan, about $2 trillion would be spent to improve the nations infrastructure and boost green energy. Much of those improvements would involve the use of copper.

For example, one part of the plan includes $105 billion for the Department of Transportation to make repairs on buses, rail cars, and stations. In addition, the plan seeks $174 billion to help American manufactures make electric cars, batteries, and charging stations. Other parts of the plan would require even more copper.

Electric Cars Rev Up Copper Demand

Some automobile manufacturers have committed to producing all-electric vehicles within five years. About One hundred electric cars are set to be on the market by the end of 2024. With the increase in electric vehicles, demand for copper is expected to increase rapidly.

Electric cars use copper in batteries. In addition, copper is used in motors, wiring, radiators, connectors, brakes, and bearings.

China Is a Buyer

About half of the copper mined in the world is bought by China. Subsequently, Chinese companies use copper to manufacture things such as refrigerators, microwave ovens, and washing machines.

Like most industries, the pandemic had a negative impact on copper prices, and fewer goods were produced. However, China is again grabbing as much copper as it can. As a result, prospects for demand are increasing and so are copper prices.

Maike Group, a Chinese metal trading firm, recently predicted copper prices will climb to an all-time high within a year. Chinas commitment to clean energy will be a major factor in that price increase, according to Maike Group.

Once in a 100-year Event?

The price of copper will hit a record high in the coming year, He Jinbi, Maike Group founder said in a written response to Reuters. The market will gradually accept it, because with the recovery of the global consumption market there will also be a shortage of copper in the European and American markets.

Part of the reason for the optimism on copper prices is the pandemic-induced reduction in mining and copper reserves. As a result, copper is in short supply. However, an expected acceleration in demand is also a factor.

Copper is going through a once-in-a-hundred-year pivot with this global transition to electrification, Gianni Kovacevic of CopperBank Resources told Investing News Network. The Green New Deal and on top of that the restimulation of the global economy, which is now well in excess of US $10 trillion dollars  they all help copper.

A Lot of Money To Be Made  Or Lost

So, it looks like the demand for copper is going to increase dramatically. Thats great, but how do you make money from that?

Firstly, understand that you are really investing in copper production, not copper. Copper does not have the intrinsic value of diamonds or gold. You are only making money in copper if your company is producing it for sale.

Secondly, you make money when there is a short supply and high demand for your product. That is the case with copper.

Mining Stocks

The simplest way to invest is to buy stock in a copper company. That usually means a copper mining company. Mining stocks are usually cheap, trading in the penny range. However, they are often volatile.

Some investors approach mining stock investments the same way they might approach a roulette table. The catchphrase is: never bet what you cant afford to lose.

Many Influences

If you decide to wager on a mining company, you should do exhaustive research taking into account the companys financial stability, current production, and location of mines. Mining in some parts of the world is not welcome. One mining official labeled violent protests at one Peruvian mine anti-mining terrorism.

Mining stocks are subject to forces of nature and market forces. In addition, there are external forces. As an example, the governments in many countries want a larger share of copper profits. Last week Chili and Zambia proposed additional fees on copper companies. In addition, the frontrunner in Perus presidential election, Yonhy Lescano, says he wants more mining revenues to stay in the country.

Regardless of external forces, most analysts see a bright future for copper. RBC Capital Markets recently raised its price estimate of copper from $3.25 to $3.50 an ounce along with other analysts.

A Safer Bet

A few copper EFTs offer a more diversified investment. That diversification spreads the investment risk.

It is always exciting to catch an investing wave. However, a balanced and diversified portfolio provides the greatest stability.

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If you enjoy reading our blog posts and would like to try your hand at blogging, we have good news for you; you can do exactly that on Saving Advice. Just click here to get started. Check out these helpful tools to help you save more. For investing advice, visit The Motley Fool.
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Brockway Area School District plans for next school year

BROCKWAY  The Brockway Area School District looked forward to the 2021-2022 school year by confirming partnerships with vendors and setting up summer school options.

The district is continuing with Nutrition Inc. to operate the school districts food service program. Breakfast will cost $1 with a reduced price of 25 cents, and lunch will be $1.50 at the elementary, $2 at the high school, and 40 cents reduced.

The district kept its relationship with CM Regent Solutions for employee dental and vision plans. The dental fee is $5.25 per month and the vision service is a $1 monthly fee.

The district decided to use CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security) Act money for multiple projects. Officials are buying 55 Promethean Boards at a total cost of over $102,454. They are also using the money for elementary summer programs, staffed by Kim Faulk, Rich Esposito, Dana Esposito, Ray Hertel, Vonalee Serafini and Diane Snell. Lesley Martini and Lindsey Bloom will provide nursing staff services. They will also have Wendy McKinley running the high school cyber summer program.

Brockway is working with other vendors to perform maintenance and increase insurance protections. The district is buying a Kubota tractor from W&W Equipment for a cost of $21,000. Pittsburgh Stage will come in and perform stage inspections. The inspections happen every three years at a cost of $3,263. Brockway is also renewing its cyber liability insurance with ACE American Insurance through Swift Kennedy. The district is bringing in Combustion Service & Equipment Company to take care of a boiler in the district. The repairs will cost $9,800. In addition, The Floor Show will come in to replace floors in the district at a cost of $31,566. Glass Erectors will be paid $12,200 to install a new vestibule area in the high school.

Brockway is looking for temporary workers for the summer. The PHEAA workers must be a Brockway resident, be enrolled at least half-time in a PHEAA-approved higher education institution, and be a state grant recipient.

Superintendent Jeff Vizza thanked various community and school members for their help throughout the past month.

I want to thank the volunteers at St. Tobias and St. Vincent de Paul for handing out over 40 boxes of food to families in our community over the Easter holiday, Vizza said. Its remarkable of how this community will assist those in need. I also want to thank Jonell Volpe and the American Red Cross for running our blood drive. We collected 20 units of blood.

The Brockway Area School Board will meet again May 11 at 7 p.m.
Several counties across Washington, including King County, are at risk of moving back to Phase 2 of the state's reopening plan.

According to a recent analysis of the most recent complete data from the Washington State Department of Health, nearly a dozen of the counties still in Phase 3 were not meeting either metric on coronavirus cases or hospitalizations needed to remain in the third phase. More were exceeding the threshold for at least one of the metrics.

The state will reassess where each county stands and announce an update on Tuesday. Depending on where the metrics are, several counties could have to soon reduce capacity at restaurants, gyms and other indoor places back to 25% in line with the Phase 2 guidance.

Health officials have been warning for weeks the state is seeing the beginning of a fourth wave. Now, it appears that surge is continuing to rise.

"We know that our immunity across the state, whether it's because of infections or because of vaccinations is still not high enough that we are concerned about a fourth wave," Secretary of Health Umair Shah said during a news briefing last week. "And we absolutely know that the safety and preventative precautions need to continue for a bit longer so that we can continue to fight this pandemic."

All counties across Washington moved to Phase 3 of the state's reopening plan in late March. About three weeks later, when officials reevaluated the data, they announced three counties  Cowlitz, Pierce and Whitman  would be moving back to Phase 2. All of those three counties were still exceeding at least one of the metrics for Phase 3, according to the most recent complete data.

Pierce County was seeing a rate of about 369.8 new cases per 100,000 people over the 14 days prior to April 22 and about 5.2 new hospitalizations per 100,000 people in the seven days prior to April 19. However, according to incomplete data in the following days, hospitalizations continue to rise in the county, hitting almost 10 per 100,000. Cowlitz County was seeing a rate of about 331 cases per 100,000 people and 13.6 hospitalizations per 100,000 people. Whitman County had a rate of 277.3 cases and two hospitalizations per 100,000 people.

To move back to Phase 2, counties have to exceed two metrics based on case rates and hospitalizations.

The case threshold for small counties  those with populations under 50,000  is less than 100 cases over the past two weeks, while the threshold for large counties is fewer than 200 cases per 100,000 people over the previous 14 days. Small counties must have less than three COVID-19 hospitalizations over the past week, while large counties must have less than five per 100,000 over the previous seven days.

The most recent complete data the Department of Health has available is for the period from April 9 to 22 for case rates and April 13 to April 19 for hospitalizations. The decisions on whether counties will be moved back will be made off of more recent data after the weekend, so metrics could change for some counties.

The following counties in Phase 3 are now at or exceeding both metrics needed to stay in the third phase:

Benton County was at 230.9 cases and 5.3 hospitalizations per 100,000.

Franklin County was at 329.7 cases and 9.3 hospitalizations per 100,000.

Grant County was at 272.6 cases and 7 hospitalizations per 100,000.

King County was at 245.1 cases and 6.1 hospitalizations per 100,000.

Kitsap County was at 225.6 cases and 5.1 hospitalizations per 100,000.

Lewis County was at 218.1 cases and 6.2 hospitalizations per 100,000.

Skagit County was at 259.9 cases and 7.7 hospitalizations per 100,000.

Snohomish County was at 227.5 cases and 6.7 hospitalizations per 100,000.

Spokane County was at 289.5 cases and 10.7 hospitalizations per 100,000.

Stevens County was at 117 cases and 5 hospitalizations.

The significant number of counties at risk of moving back a phase reflects the rising number of cases and hospitalizations across the state.

According to the most recent complete data, the state was seeing a rate of about 250 new cases per 100,000 people over the previous 14 days. As of mid-March, the state was seeing a rate of about 125 new cases per 100,000 people over the previous 14 days. Hospitalizations were also trending up, at about six new hospitalizations per 100,000 people over the previous seven days as of April 19. Incomplete data in the days following show hospitalizations are continuing to rise.

Even as vaccinations have been increasing in the state, a majority of people are not yet fully protected from the virus. On top of that, variants thought to be more infectious have been rapidly spreading in Washington. Officials estimated a majority of cases of the virus in the state are now of the B.1.1.7 variant, first identified in the U.K. That variant, Shah said, "spreads more easily and likely increases severity as well."

With indoor dining and gyms opened at a higher capacity, more people are also now interacting with one another, giving the virus more opportunities to spread.

For weeks, officials have been urging people not to let their guards down. People need to continue wearing masks, social distance, avoid large gatherings and  as the weather gets warmer  take it outside.

Until more people are fully protected from the virus, it will be able to continue to spread rapidly throughout the community. Even as a majority of older adults are vaccinated, younger people can still get severe illness from the virus.

"We have simultaneously a new weapon in the fight against this pandemic, mainly this incredibly safe and effective vaccine. Simultaneously we have effectively a new threat, a more powerful and dangerous threat," Gov. Jay Inslee said during a news conference Thursday. "And that's what I think we can call COVID 2.0. This is not your grandmother's COVID."

He warned the state would risk overwhelming the hospitals if the pandemic continued to trend in this way.

At the same time, officials are urging every adult to get vaccinated as soon as they can. There are thousands of open vaccine appointments in Seattle and King County for people who haven't yet signed up for a slot. Vaccines are a key tool to stopping the spread of the virus and allowing people to go back to more normal activities.

"Vaccinations are working," Shah said earlier this week. "It's not just about people getting vaccinated but also helping their loved ones getting vaccinated ... vaccines really do provide a pathway to getting back to normal."
University of Washington students will be required to get the COVID-19 vaccine by the start of the next academic year, officials announced Monday.

The announcement comes as state officials urge people to get vaccinated as soon as they can, calling the vaccines a key tool to stopping the spread of the virus and keeping the community safe.

Widespread vaccination is the only real way we can put the COVID-19 pandemic behind us and return to a more normal way of living, learning and working, UW President Ana Mari Cauce wrote in a message to students, faculty, academic personnel and staff. "Fortunately, vaccines are now readily available that have proven safe and highly effective, including through clinical trials in which our own faculty collaborated and during real-world experience."

All students on all three of UW's campuses will have to get the vaccine. Students will need to show they have received the vaccine before the start of the fall quarter, "unless they are claiming a medical, religious or philosophical exemption," Cauce wrote in the message. UW will also allow students to get vaccinated when they arrive on campus if they can't get one elsewhere.

"FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccines are based on technology that has been under development for more than 20 years and is being used now to stop this deadly virus. But a vaccine can do no good if it stays in a vial  it takes each of us to make the decision that I and hundreds of millions more have made to get vaccinated," the letter said.

Our community is one that cares  about each other and about the state and society we serve. For your health, and for the health of us all, please get vaccinated as soon as you can.

The university has not yet made an announcement on whether faculty and staff will have to get vaccinated.

Several other colleges across Washington and the U.S. have already announced plans to mandate the vaccine for students, including Seattle University and Washington State University.

So far across Washington, about 42.5% of adults have received at least one dose of the vaccine and nearly 30% are fully vaccinated. That means still about 70% of adults are not yet fully protected from the virus.

The state for months had been struggling with a limited vaccine supply, but in recent days, there have been thousands of open appointments in Seattle, King County and across the state. Many clinics in the area are now allowing people to walk in without having to make appointments in advance -- a move officials hope will make it even more convenient for people to go in to get the shots.

Clinics are also working to expand hours to weekends and evenings, to serve people who work during the day or are unable to come in during traditional hours for another reason.

Until more people are fully vaccinated, people need to continue to wear masks, socially distance, avoid large gatherings and opt for outdoor get togethers -- especially as cases and hospitalizations continue to increase across the state. The state is facing an even more "dangerous threat" as new variants thought to be more infectious become the dominant strains in Washington, officials said last week.

"We have simultaneously a new weapon in the fight against this pandemic, mainly this incredibly safe and effective vaccine. Simultaneously we have effectively a new threat, a more powerful and dangerous threat," Inslee said during a news conference last week. "And that's what I think we can call COVID 2.0. This is not your grandmother's COVID."
Plans for a 13,000 square-foot food hall in Seattle's South Lake Union neighborhood have been called off amid the uncertainty of tech workers returning to the neighborhood.

The Seattle P-I first reported on the much-anticipated plans to bring San Francisco's popular restaurant and market complex China Live to Westlake Avenue in February 2020, just a month before the COVID-19 pandemic hit the city and changed dining as we know it.

The company had leased a space in Amazon's headquarters on the corner of 8th Ave and Lenora near the Spheres and hoped to open in 2021 with a rotating selection of local food. Following the outbreak of the virus and subsequent stay-at-home orders last spring, the owners then delayed the opening of the Emerald City outpost until 2022 while making plans to pivot to more contact-free ordering options and pod-style seating.

But now, those plans are not moving forward, according to Eater Seattle, as the owners weighed the city's economic recovery to the virus along with the fact that many tech companies in the neighborhood might move a large portion of their workers to telecommuting, taking away potential customers.

"Were not going to do Seattle," said China Live co-founder George Chen in an episode of Eater's Digest. "Its not the right concept and the right location, because Amazon, like any big secret company, theyre not going to tell you whether their employees are going to be able to work remotely or not."

Carlos Avila Gonzalez/The Chronicle

China Live first opened in San Francisco in 2017 in a massive 30,000 square-foot space, taking inspiration from New Yorks Italian food complex Eataly. The food emporium features a host of options including both casual table-service and fine dining restaurant, cocktail bars and retail spaces that sell spices, teas, condiments, produce, cookware and cutlery.

The South Lake Union neighborhood has seen several high-profile restaurant closures amid the pandemic, including two Tom Douglas restaurants in July 2020 that were popular among the neighborhood's workers for happy hours.

It is unclear when or if masses of tech workers will return to the neighborhood. Amazon, which employees roughly 75,000 people in the Puget Sound area, seems to be taking a cautious approach to reopening its offices, announcing last fall that it would extend its corporate work from home policy until June 30, 2021.

However, some tech companies have started forging plans to return to the office as vaccination efforts ramp up. Facebook, the area's fifth largest tech company, announced in March that it would allow 10% of employees to return to its Seattle-area offices.

The news that the food hall will not have an outpost in the city comes as King County is likely to fall back to Phase 2 of the state's reopening plan this week. If the county does roll back, restaurants will have to reduce capacity back down to 25%, posing yet another challenge for the city's food scene.
This article is being shared by a partner in The Granite State News Collaborative. For more information visit collaborativenh.org.
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Courtesy Berkeley Police Department

Berkeley police arrested an armed man who was allegedly fleeing from Contra Costa County Sheriffs deputies after committing a felony in Antioch, authorities said Monday.

Keenan Hicks-Brown, 23, of Berkeley was arrested on suspicion of resisting arrest and carrying a loaded firearm with a large capacity magazine, police said.
It was probably a wrong turn that led Brandi Barnes to the corner of Courtland and San Carlos avenues in East Oakland in the dead of night on Dec. 14, 2019. But the mistake would prove fatal.

In what Oakland police believe was a case of road rage, a figure out on the street unloaded a hailstorm of bullets at Barnes and her passenger, striking 35-year-old Barnes just before she crashed the car.

Investigators traced the crime back to the home of Dewaun Poole, a 31-year-old Oakland man with a felony record that should have precluded him from buying or owning a gun.

But during their search of Pooles home, police found two pistols, both of them lacking serial numbers. Police believe they were purchased as disassembled, nearly complete kits, making them technically legal to ship to Poole.

One of these weapons, police say, was used to kill Barnes.

Seizures of these unregistered firearms, known as ghost guns, have spiked in Oakland, accounting for 22% of the guns confiscated this year. Thats compared to about 16.5% of guns seized in 2020 and 7% in 2019. Cities including San Francisco and Los Angeles, as well as other major metropolitan areas throughout the country, have tracked similar rises.

San Francisco police have recorded a steady rise of ghost gun seizures beginning in 2016, when officers seized just six in the entire year compared with none in 2015. That figure grew to 17 in 2017, 50 in 2018, 97 in 2019 and 164 in 2020, according to police records provided to The Chronicle.

Shooting incidents have also spiked recently in San Francisco, with the number of gun violence victims to date rising by 181%  26 to 73 as of April 19  since last year, according to police data.

Oakland police say the untraceable guns are a key part of what has been a historic burst of violence over the past year, where shootings are up by 131% this year, compared with the first four months of 2020. Homicides have soared by 181%, from 16 to 45.

Many Bay Area police departments dont keep track of how many ghost guns theyre recovering, making it difficult to compile a complete picture of how many have been seized. A spokesperson for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives said local law enforcement agencies are encouraged to submit the privately made firearms they seize, but many choose not to.

The weapons make investigating gun crimes more difficult because, without a serial number, police are stripped of the ability to track the guns to the original buyer. While crime guns often change hands, knowing who purchased the weapon is often a crucial starting point in an investigation.

It really puts law enforcement at an extreme disadvantage, said Oakland Police Deputy Chief Drennon Lindsey. Having this type of impediment now, where we stand with the increase in violence surrounding the use of firearms, is really a challenge for us.

Ghost guns are sold in parts or as disassembled kits requiring no special tools or skills to put together. The firearms are sometimes called 80% receivers because they can be purchased with enough missing components to evade state and federal firearms regulations.

That opens a loophole in Californias notoriously tough gun laws, allowing the almost-finished products to be sold at gun shows and online without background checks or waiting periods.

An assembled ghost gun can be owned legally once its given a serial number, which requires the user to submit the same background check with the U.S. Department of Justice as they would for a regular gun. Few criminals actually take that step, however.

This means ghost guns can find their way into the hands of juveniles, gang members, domestic abusers and others who would ordinarily be flagged by a background check.

A high influx of ghost guns means theres less people legally owning them or legally purchasing them, said Oakland Police Sgt. Steve Valle, a supervisor in the departments crime gun intelligence center. The concern is, anybody can get these.

Police concerns about these weapons came into sharp focus last month after a major bust of the Case and ENT street gangs  rivals that Oakland and Antioch police believe were responsible for 19 shootings, including two homicides, in the cities over the last year. The operation netted 50 suspects and 40 firearms, 15 of which were untraceable.

Similar rises in ghost guns were reported in cities across the country, including Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington, D.C. Los Angeles police said more than 700 ghost guns were seized in 2020 with parts purchased from a single company called Polymer80, the Los Angeles Times reported. More than 300 were confiscated in South Los Angeles, which saw a historic spike in killings last year.

The do-it-yourself weapons began to gain notoriety after they were used in a handful of high-profile shootings, including some in California.

In 2017, authorities said Kevin Janson Neal used home-assembled semiautomatic rifles to kill his wife and four other residents of Rancho Tehama Reserve in Tehama County. Two years later, Nathaniel Berhow, 16, used a gun kit to create the .45 pistol he used to shoot five classmates at Saugus High School in Santa Clarita, killing two, authorities said.

Neither Neal nor Berhow were legally permitted to buy a gun.

Tanya Schardt, legal counsel for the Brady gun control advocacy group, said ghost guns seemed to have established a foothold in California first, as a way to sidestep the states strict gun laws. After that, she said, sellers saw opportunities across the country.

The manufacturers and sellers of the ghost gun kits and parts, kind of acknowledge that theres a huge market for this and kind of indulge in it, Schardt said. They identify and market these products as unregulated or untraceable.

State and national lawmakers have begun weighing legislation intended to curb their reach. Californias Assembly Bill 311, introduced by Assembly Member Christopher Ward, D-San Diego, would ban the sale of kits and parts at gun shows. President Joe Biden directed the Justice Department in April to write new rules to reduce their spread, and gun control advocates expect Congress to reintroduce a bill that would require all firearms to be traceable.

Other laws are making similar weapons easier to obtain. On Tuesday, a federal appeals court ruled that designers of 3-D printed ghost guns can legally post their plans online.

San Francisco Supervisor Catherine Stefani, a longtime gun violence prevention advocate who helped close gun stores and expand gun violence restraining orders, said local governments can help stem the tide as well.

Shootings in San Francisco have skyrocketed during the pandemic, she said. I fully intend to address the rapid increase in ghost guns, and I remain deeply committed to meeting the challenges of gun violence in San Francisco.

Schardt noted that most firearms are purchased legally, and said regulators need to look at the source of ghost guns to stop them from falling into dangerous hands.

People always need to be reminded that guns dont simply grow on trees, Schardt said, noting that most firearms are purchased legally, through a federal firearms license. Ghost guns create an entirely new problem: How do we prevent and handle gun trafficking when you cant regulate that first sale?

Megan Cassidy is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: megan.cassidy@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @meganrcassidy
The Peninsula and South Bay restaurant scenes are humming again, with numerous businesses opening their doors there in recent weeks.

They are exciting developments for local diners and for the Bay Area at large. A more casual Santa Clara restaurant from the family behind San Francisco Vietnamese restaurant Thanh Long means denizens of the Peninsula no longer have to drive north for those legendary garlic noodles. Meanwhile, Xanh Restaurant, long a popular draw in downtown Mountain View, has reopened after a year-plus pandemic closure. And several chains, from a Seattle dumpling specialist to a local Sicilian pizza franchise, have made their debuts.

Read on for more on each opening.

S.F.s famed Thanh Long opens casual spin-off in Santa Clara

Kenneth Lew

The team behind San Francisco Vietnamese favorite Thanh Long has brought their iconic garlic noodles to the South Bay. Their more casual restaurant, AnQi Shaken and Stirred, is now open inside a Bloomingdales at Westfield Valley Fair in Santa Clara.

AnQi Shaken and Stirred serves the greatest hits from Thanh Long, which Helene An opened in 1975, including those famous noodles, Ans garlic rice and shaken beef. There are also garlic chicken wings, bulgogi nachos (fried wonton wrappers topped with beef, kimchi and white cheddar cheese) and lychee martinis. AnQi will offer happy-hour and late-night dining once public health restrictions ease.

We always wanted to come to the South Bay, said Kenneth Lew, Ans son-in-law. Were hoping to do something fun and different but also bring what were known for.

The family opened the first AnQi inside a Bloomingdales at a Southern California shopping center, so when they were approached about the Westfield opportunity, it made sense for them. They also operate two Crustacean restaurants on Polk Street in San Francisco and Beverly Hills. The San Francisco location will soon be moving to a new home in the Financial District, Lew said.

An, 78, is still heavily involved, working with the chefs at each restaurant to develop the menus.

Shes 78 but shes still putting in a lot of hours, Lew said.

Takeout and indoor dining. Noon-7 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday. 2847 Stevens Creek Blvd., Santa Clara. anqisns.com/

Contemporary Vietnamese restaurant returns to Mountain View

Xanh Restaurant in downtown Mountain View has been dark since the pandemic hit more than a year ago, sparking rumors that it had closed permanently. But the longtime modern Vietnamese restaurant reopened over the weekend.

Xanh was long known for its contemporary Vietnamese and fusion food, clubby atmosphere and generous lunch buffets. Xanh 2.0, however, is serving a pared down menu of the restaurants greatest hits, plus some new dishes, like Wagyu short ribs and oxtail congee, said owner Stephanie, who asked to be identified by her first name only. Due to the coronavirus, the buffet is no longer, but they plan to try out a dim sum-style service with small dishes for Mothers Day, May 9. If it goes well, Xanh will continue to offer that on weekends, she said.

Xanh will be open for dinner only on weekends for now. The owner is eager for feedback from customers and is open to adjusting the menu. A new chef is in the kitchen but has been trained on all the old Xanh recipes, she said, and is willing to accommodate requests  including for a customer this weekend who was craving a happy hour crab starter from the previous menu.

Thuy Pham and her daughter, Amanda Pham-Huynh, opened Xanh in 2006; its now under new ownership.

Limited indoor and outdoor dining. Call 650-964-1888 for current hours and reservations. 110 Castro St., Mountain View. xanhrestaurant.com

Seattle dumpling chain brings XLB and lines to San Mateo

The first California location of Dough Zone, a Seattle-born dumpling chain that specializes in xiao long bao and sheng jian bao, opened May 1 in downtown San Mateo.

People quickly lined up over the weekend for Dough Zones signature xiao long bao  often compared to the famed Din Tai Fungs  and plump, pan-fried sheng jian bao, which are made from a secret, patented recipe. Dough Zone serves two kinds of xiao long bao, one filled with Berkshire-Duroc pork and crab and the other with chicken. The rest of the menu is largely the same as the Seattle original, with other kinds of dumplings and dishes like dan dan noodles, green onion pancakes and beef noodle soup.

Dough Zone first opened in Seattle in 2014 and now operates seven locations there. A Dough Zone is also opening in Cupertino this summer.

Takeout and indoor dining. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. daily. 11 E. Fourth Ave., San Mateo. doughzonedumplinghouse.com

Farmers market banh mi favorite expands in Palo Alto

Fans of Chez Eaterys banh mi stand at the California Avenue Farmers Market in Palo Alto on Sundays now have a more regular way to get their fix. The restaurant is offering curbside pickup of sandwiches during the week outside the La Jolie nail spa at 364 S. California Ave. (where the market stand is located on Sundays) under the name Bread Apeel.

The menu includes their classic banh mi with ham and pate, plus pork belly, fried tofu, shredded roasted chicken and tri-tip steak versions, all served on fresh-baked demi baguettes. New on the pickup menu are several salads, including shaking beef over mixed greens with avocados, tomatoes and red onions; and marinated tofu with baby kale, arugula, cabbage, carrots, buckwheat noodles, toasted quinoa and millet tossed in a miso vinaigrette.

Takeout only. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday. 364 S. California Ave., Palo Alto. breadapeel.com

Lanzhou Hand Pulled Noodle opens second location in Cupertino

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A second location of Lanzhou Hand Pulled Noodle in Milpitas is now open in Cupertino. As the name implies, the restaurant specializes in hand-pulled, chewy noodles served in bowls of clear beef broth cooked over 10 hours with as many as 20 spices. The dish hails from Lanzhou, the capital of Chinas Gansu province, and was reportedly invented by Mao Baozi during the Qing Dynasty, according to a noodle history written on the restaurants walls.

Customers can also customize their own hand-pulled noodle bowls, choosing their preferred noodle thickness  from small round to thick belt  spice level and toppings. The menu also includes dry noodle dishes, basil popcorn chicken, dumplings and other fare.

The Cupertino restaurant isnt open yet for indoor dining, but you can catch glimpses of cooks kneading and pulling dough in the kitchen when picking up noodles to go.

Takeout, delivery and limited outdoor dining. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. and 5-8 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday; 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Closed Wednesday. 10745 S. De Anza Blvd., Cupertino. lanzhouhandpullednoodle.com

Fast-growing S.F. pizza shop opens in San Mateo

Tony Riviera

A San Francisco-born pizza franchise is expanding rapidly, with its first location newly open on the Peninsula and many more on the way.

Slices opened in April at the Bay Meadows development in San Mateo. The casual restaurant serves square Sicilian-style pizzas made with 00 flour, tomatoes and olive oil imported from Italy, such as the margherita with whole milk mozzarella, house-made red sauce, basil and marinated cherry tomatoes. Other pizzas are topped with pepperoni, Italian sausage, broccolini, smoked brisket or their take on the Hawaiian, which has prosciutto with pineapple and jalapenos. The pizzas, available by the slice or whole, are baked in custom black steel pans from Italy. Slices also serves Italian sub sandwiches, cheese lasagna and Sicilian meatballs.

Tony Riviera, a native of Brooklyn, N.Y., who opened the first Slices in San Francisco in 2018, said Slices was born out of a desire to bring high-quality Sicilian pizza to the masses. The pizzas start with a 72-hour fermentation on the dough to create a light pizza with a super-crispy crust. Theyre slightly thinner than a typical Sicilian pie, Riviera said, but hold up to toppings.

There are now Slices locations in Southern California, Dallas and Seattle. Riviera plans to open four more outposts in San Francisco in the next year and a half, including in Mission Bay, as well as in San Jose. The local growth is part of an ambitious expansion plan to open 500 national Slices over the next five years.

Takeout, delivery and indoor and outdoor dining. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday-Thursday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday. 3035 S. Delaware St., Suite C, San Mateo. slicesusa.com/

S.F. sandwich favorite Lous Cafe arrives on the Peninsula

San Francisco sandwich standby Lous Cafe recently opened its first Peninsula location in downtown San Carlos. The new outpost largely serves the same menu, with sandwiches like the Ami-cado (pastrami, salami, avocado, pepper jack cheese and Lous special sauce, a garlic aioli spread) and a roast beef sandwich with extra-hot horseradish on Dutch crunch bread. There are also several breakfast sandwiches, salads and soups.

Takeout, delivery and indoor dining. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday 902 Laurel St., San Carlos. louscafesf.com/

Elena Kadvany is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: elena.kadvany@sfchronicle.com. Twitter: ekadvany
If you havent read Julia Moskins investigation into the Willows Inn on Lummi Island, you should absolutely do so. In her New York Times story, reported over the course of three months, Moskin uncovers allegations of rampant sexual misconduct, abuse and even fraud behind the scenes at the internationally renowned restaurant in Washington state. The piece made a splash within the restaurant and food journalism industries, but the fine dining world has been mostly silent. To my knowledge, no big-name American chef with the power to change restaurant culture  no one who benefits from the same celebrity chef hype that enabled Blaine Wetzels alleged ego-driven mismanagement of the Willows Inn  has said anything publicly about this story.

And I think they should. Theres precedent, after all: In 2021, its now commonplace to acknowledge Black Lives Matter and #StopAAPIHate and talk about how your restaurant doesnt tolerate discrimination, which are honorable statements that also benefit from their vagueness. It makes me wonder how it makes career restaurant workers feel, to see their industry remain silent in the face of such obvious injustice, and Im not surprised that restaurants are still having a hard time finding staff, now that dining in the Bay Area is opening back up.

This issue leads to another set of questions: Do customers even care about this stuff? And are they willing to pay for it? I decided to chat about the future of the restaurant workplace with San Francisco chef Eric Ehler, who is currently the chef consultant for Chinese American restaurant Lazy Susan. When I shared Moskins story on social media, Ehler was the only chef who wanted to talk to me at length about it. Ehler, who has been working in the industry since he was a teen, told me that hes been thinking through these issues a lot lately: about the sometimes awful things chefs get away with in the name of making good food and the collateral damage of the customer is always right mentality.

A past experience with a social media scandal, wherein he was criticized by a Chinese writer for supposedly making gentrified Chinese food, has made him skeptical about the efficacy of taking to the internet to call out individual bad actors. Instead, he hopes to model good leadership by example and hopes that chefs who have mistreated people in the past just own up to it themselves.

The following conversation has been edited for clarity and length.

Rosa Furneaux / Special to The Chronicle

Let me ask you this question directly: Pretend Im your everyday customer. How do I know youre not an abusive chef, too?

Thats the big question right now. For me  Eric Ehler in general  you can ask anyone Ive worked with, and I think theyll tell you Ive done my best to make a good atmosphere. I hope that my previous employees and current employees would be able to vouch for me because theyve worked with me and theyve known me. Im not perfect. Ive been wrong, and Ive tried to right those wrongs.

Honestly, that issue is something Im trying to figure out. I see a lot of chefs trying to cover their tracks or bury their history. The truth is that every chef right now with their name on a big, nice restaurant has so many skeletons in their closet. When I was younger, I was very fortunate to work in tough-love kitchens that were not racist or malicious or misogynistic. But I would hear stories of people working for bigger chefs back in the day. Ive been in San Francisco since 2008 and seen the industry go through so many different waves.

I do feel guilty  guilty by association. Thats what haunts me. Who have I supported in the past? So right now, its so important for me to try to right any wrongs Ive done. To push into the future.

The story of Blaine Wetzel, whos a chef in his 30s, about the same age as you and me, also shows that this isnt a simple story about how toxic restaurant culture is an old school versus new school thing, right? So in your mind, what needs to happen for restaurants to truly change for the better?

Theres this idea of the soldier chef, who embodies precision and everything about going into fine dining, Michelin-starred service. Finesse is great and all, but its not sustainable for people, for staff. The time of the chef is over. Thats not to say that fine dining cant exist  the ideals of the past just need to go.

I also just think that people in these bigger restaurants need to have better human resources (HR) solutions. Not to drop names, but in the past, whenever I tried to talk to managers about anything HR-related, it just went nowhere. Thats why these traumatizing situations happen. We just never had any help.

You told me in private messages that, for you, It's been a mission statement since day one to have healthy kitchens. Can you clarify what you mean by healthy? What does a healthy restaurant workplace actually look like?

How about I just tell you about my day? When I come in, everyone gets greeted. Everyone is treated as if Im coming home to my family. We go through the prep list and make space for questions or concerns  in Spanish, English, and sometimes even Mayan or Chinese. I check in with everybody and ensure theres a good staff meal and that everyones food prep is fair and not too heavy.

I get people snacks and water, check in with them. I make sure they get their bathroom breaks in. We crack jokes and talk about Netflix on the line, and I give people small projects during downtime. And I make sure everyones energized and ready to come to work the next day.

If theres ever an issue, we fix the problem, resolve it and retrain. Im never like, You did this because youre stupid, or because youre lazy. When Im on the line, no one has to be scared or freaked out. My team knows that Im there because I want to help them. Im willing to stop service and slow things down to do that. The customer can wait if theres some issues that need to be resolved.

In my experience, the customer is usually blamed by managers and restaurant operators for the way staff are treated: In the past, Ive heard bosses say people wont pay more for food so employees can get living wages, or that customers wont tolerate slower service or sold-out menu items due to staff taking more breaks. Does that ring true for you?

That bothers me so much: The people operating these restaurants at a high standard, theyre the ones not doing their books correctly and doing all of this irresponsible ordering. Lets bring in all of these fancy ingredients; lets make oyster sauce from locally harvested oysters! All those costs brought on to boost the chefs ego create more labor, more high pressure situations, harsher work environments. In these situations, people arent allowed to mess up because that hurts the chefs ego.

So if its my decision, we can run out of something. Thats fantastic. Im not gonna lose my mind, and its not gonna bother me. I love going to tables and being like Hey, we ran out of this, so this is what were going to do

All it takes is some genuine courtesy and telling people were gonna make this right. 9/10 people are super excited and understanding about it. That 1/10 thats super upset? I dont want you as a customer.

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

I loved that story by Khushbu Shah in Food & Wine: The Customer Is Not Always Right. I kinda want to come out and say that! We have to try to rewrite the way we see hospitality, where the customer is always right. Because thats why chefs and managers get so crazy: They keep wanting to please the customer. They think that if they fail the customer, they fail themselves, and those feelings get taken out on the cooks and dishwashers. But we have to accept that these imperfections are going to happen and we cant lose our st.

Do you think you can convince customers to pay more for food for workers sake?

Yes. Im trying to educate the customer and be transparent how much it costs to get food from farm to table. Like we have a dishwasher we taught to do all the prep, and the pastry chef who has a high level of knowledge and expertise. The training all costs a lot of money. (Critics note: On the Lazy Susan menu, the price of an order of beef and broccoli with a full order of fried rice is around $27.)

The easiest thing to help anybody is to pay a little bit more. if youre eating out in the first place, you can definitely afford to pay more. Even if that $10 burger is just increased to $12, that $2 goes a long way to helping people. Otherwise, how is it a surprise for people to learn that line cooks live four to a two-bedroom apartment in San Francisco?

On the podcast

This week, I talk with Michelle Zauner, the musician behind Japanese Breakfast, about her newly released memoir, Crying in H Mart. It was a book that really affected me a lot, as you might have guessed from last weeks newsletter. We chat about what inspired the strong culinary themes of her memoir, the therapeutic benefits of making kimchi by hand, and our mutual love of the farming simulation game, Harvest Moon. You can listen and subscribe here.

Recommended reading

 Oakland Assembly, the hotly anticipated new food hall in Oakland, was set to bring stalls and kiosks by celebrated local chefs like Matt Horn and Preeti Mistry to its splashy facility in Jack London Square. But, as Elena Kadvany found out, all but one of the all-star lineup have pulled out of or distanced themselves from the project.

 For KCET, Clarissa Wei covered Dolans, a Uyghur restaurant in Los Angeles where the staff wear black t-shirts that say, Google Uyghurs while serving platters of chile-spiked chicken with hand-pulled noodles. Bringing attention to the plight of the more than 3 million Uyghurs in China, where the Turkic ethnic group is being imprisoned in labor camps and forcibly sterilized, is the modus operandi for the business. See also: Melissa Hungs story on the owners of Sama Uyghur Cuisine, a now-shuttered restaurant in Union City.

 A Nature story by Amy Maxmen takes a look at how labor conditions at U.S. food production facilities, like meat-packing plants, exacerbated the outsized impact of the COVID pandemic on food workers, especially those of Latin descent. She investigates the way the virus stormed through the San Joaquin Valley, where few agricultural workers had access to COVID testing and paid sick leave.

Bite Curious is a weekly newsletter from The Chronicles restaurant critic, Soleil Ho, delivered to inboxes on Monday mornings. Follow along on Twitter: @Hooleil
Good morning, Bay Area. Its Monday, May 3, and if you have pandemic anxiety about returning to normal, youre not alone. Heres what you need to know to start your day.

Palo Altos title as the unofficial capital of Silicon Valley has in recent years led to a severe lack of new housing as officials double down on stringent policies to help boost home prices.

Housing advocates say the city has a unique opportunity to change the course, and embrace multifamily housing rather than individual lots to help counteract housing and school segregation. But an uphill battle is on the horizon.

Shortly after the Palo Alto City Council tightened restrictions against multifamily housing, a group of anti-growth homeowners and politicians held a town hall arguing that more housing could lead to problems and urged attendees to challenge a state directive for the city to approve 6,000 new homes by 2030. Read more from Lauren Hepler.

Coronavirus updates

Lea Suzuki / The Chronicle

As many people across the Bay Area and state are getting vaccinated and resuming normal activities, some residents arent quite ready to return to normal.

Recent surveys from Morning Consult and the American Psychological Association found that just under half of respondents felt that they were not yet comfortable with returning to their regular returns yet. Read more from Ryan Kost about pandemic anxiety and how experts suggest easing back into normal life.

 Live in the East Bay? Here are the sites where you can get a vaccine this week.

 Oregon and Washington states are experiencing COVID-19 surges. Officials blame variants and say cases are happening in the younger, unvaccinated population.

 As coronavirus cases continue to surge in India, Bay Area experts weigh in on whether a travel ban from the country to the U.S. will help contain the spread.

 A Chronicle analysis of two years of parking data from San Franciscos 21,000 parking meters shows an uneven pandemic recovery.

 Here is how San Franciscos restaurant rebound compares with that of other cities, according to OpenTable data.

 Change of address data from the U.S. Postal Service shows that the pandemic migration out of San Francisco has slowed considerably.

 Indie movie theaters in San Francisco, starting with the Balboa Theater, are finally starting to reopen.

Around the Bay

Yalonda M. James / The Chronicle

 From Heather Knight: From a life of homelessness and drug addiction to working with San Franciscos top political leaders, Gary McCoy shares his story as he takes on a new role.

 Seizing the moment: Latino homeownership has declined in the Bay Area, leading many to find opportunity in outlying areas or low-cost markets in other states.

 An early wildfire season: A blaze broke out Sunday in Big Basin Redwoods State Park, where the destructive CZU Lighting Complex burned 86,000 acres last year: Also: Drakes Beach in Point Reyes National Seashore will be closed for almost four months starting today.

 From Justin Phillips: Bay Area therapists are seeing younger patients of color who are helping eliminate the stigma around therapy.

 Running on fumes: The primary program for electric car rebates in California has run out of money, and its unclear whether buyers on the waiting list will still receive checks.

 Untraceable: Seizures of unregistered firearms known as ghost guns have spiked in Oakland, and police say they are a key part of the surge in violence in the past year.

A pioneer, a troubleshooter, a nice guy

Jae C. Hong / Associated Press 2008

At the age of 4, Dan Kaminsky already taught himself to use his Radio Shack TRS-80 personal computer, and by 11 years old, he was a computer whiz.

A preeminent expert in internet security who did contract work for major tech companies, including Microsoft and Google, Kaminsky died April 23 in his San Francisco home at age 42.

In 2008, while consulting for tech companies, he found a problem that made 160 million computers vulnerable and led a team to develop a solution to fix it. Before he turned 30, he had received a lifetime achievement award for protecting the internet. Read more about Kaminskys life from Sam Whiting.

Bay Briefing is written by Taylor Kate Brown, Anna Buchmann and Kellie Hwang and sent to readers email inboxes on weekday mornings. Sign up for the newsletter here, and contact the writers at taylor.brown@sfchronicle.com, anna.buchmann@sfchronicle.com and kellie.hwang@sfchronicle.com.
Sen. Alex Padilla, D-Calif., announced Monday that he is introducing legislation to increase protection of more than 1 million acres of public lands in California, mirroring part of a wilderness bill approved by the House earlier this year.

The proposal would preserve redwood forests along the north coast, create a trail stretching from Monterey County to Los Angeles and expand the popular San Gabriel Mountains National Monument in Southern California, among other things.

The conservation push comes as the new administration in Washington encourages protection of the nations wildlands. President Biden has been a champion of the 30 by 30 campaign, an effort to safeguard 30% of U.S. land and waters by 2030.

It is incumbent upon us to be thoughtful stewards of these special places so that our communities can enjoy them and benefit from Americas natural resources for generations to come, Padilla said in a statement.

In February, the House passed the Protecting Americas Wilderness and Public Lands Act, which expands land preservation and recreation opportunities across several states. Padillas bill, co-sponsored by Sen. Dianne Feinstein, is limited to California. Its dubbed the Public Lands Act, short for Protecting Unique and Beautiful Landscapes by Investing in California.

The legislation would designate more than 300,000 acres of public lands in Del Norte, Humboldt, Mendocino and Trinity counties as wilderness, the most restrictive classification of federal land. It would create a 400-mile long Condor National Scenic Trail in and around the Los Padres National Forest. It would increase the size of the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument by 109,000 acres and establish a national recreation area along the San Gabriel Valley foothills.

COVID Resources Coronavirus Map Tracking COVID-19 cases across the Bay Area and California.

The proposal is likely to face at least some pushback in the Senate, notably from Republicans wary of limits the bill would put on commercial activities, such as logging, mining and ranching. The protections that are proposed, like in the House bill, pertain almost entirely to federal land and do not, for the most part, affect private holdings.

If the legislation is approved by the Senate, a big if given the Democrats razor-thin majority, how the Senate bill and House bill are reconciled remains to be seen. Pieces of both could be included in a larger bill, perhaps on infrastructure or the budget.

Kurtis Alexander is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: kalexander@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @kurtisalexander
Pet owners in California cant speak to veterinarians about their pets health problems by phone, Zoom or Skype until the vet examines the animal in person  a restriction that endangers the pets, doesnt apply to human patients and violates freedom of speech, a lawsuit to be filed Monday contends.

Plaintiffs in the suit include the San Francisco Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and individual veterinarians and pet owners. One is Sherri Franklin of San Francisco, founder of the Muttville rescue and shelter home for elderly dogs, and owner of five aging canines whose ailments include diabetes and lymphoma.

Under regulations issued by the California Veterinary Medical Board in 2019, the suit states, Franklin cant consult a veterinarian about any of her dogs conditions unless the vet first examines the pet in person, exams that are difficult and painful because of their age and fragility. Phone consultation, and remote examinations by Zoom or Skype, would be legal and suitable for humans in comparable situations but are prohibited for animals, the suit said.

It said at least three other states  Michigan, Oklahoma and Virginia  allow veterinarians to examine pets remotely and speak with their owners by phone before any in-person visit. The American Association of Veterinary State Boards has also recommended allowing remote exams, the suit said.

In California, a rule adopted last June in response to the COVID-19 pandemic allowed vets to use telemedicine to examine animals who were already their patients and developed new illnesses, but the rule is only temporary and does not eliminate the need for an initial visit, the suit said.

Californias restrictions cause unnecessary harm to veterinarians and their clients and unnecessary suffering in animals, said a draft of the lawsuit, to be filed in federal court in Sacramento. It said the regulation hinders the communication of vital medical advice that would help animals.

We see telemedicine as a way to improve care, expand care, said Brandy Kuentzel, a lawyer for the San Francisco SPCA. We trust it for ourselves and for our human children. Why cant we do it for our pets?

Among other drawbacks, the suit said, some pets react aggressively to in-person visits and can be examined properly only after treatment with a sedative, which cannot be prescribed without a visit.

Some animals have difficulty walking, a condition that often can be assessed better remotely than at a visit to a doctors office or a hospital. And suffering pets may need hospice care, which is available in only a few cities and, under the rules, requires an in-person consultation for each new condition.

According to the suit, the Veterinary Medical Board has repeatedly declared that in-person visits are essential to enable the examiner to feel the animal, listen to heart and lungs, check the eyes and ears. The suit also quoted board members as saying in 2017, while considering the regulation, that remote communication is expressed solely by the animal owner, who likely has no veterinary training to properly diagnose or express a sickness or symptom of the animal.

That reasoning is contradicted by the states rules allowing remote examinations of human patients, the suit said.

Those regulations broadly permit remote communications even when the patient  for instance, an infant child or a person with mental or physical impairments that inhibit communication  cannot adequately communicate their own medical conditions, the suit said.

The San Francisco SPCA, lead plaintiff in the case, was founded in 1868. In 1890 it established the Animals Home at 16th and Alabama Streets in the Mission District, now the site of its Veterinary Hospital and Mission Adoption Center. More than 50,000 examinations per year are performed at its two hospitals, representatives said.

Because of the states restrictions, the suit said, veterinary-care providers like S.F. SPCA and the veterinarians they employ are forced to turn away clients and patients who, due to their limited mobility or remote living situations, cannot physically travel to their clinics to establish an in-person relationship with those providers.

As a result, the suit said, some pet owners scour online sites for possible treatments and wind up using dubious home remedies.

Bob Egelko is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: begelko@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @BobEgelko
Regarding U.S. vows again to ban menthol flavor in cigarettes, cigars (Nation, April 29): The San Francisco Marin Medical Society applauds the Biden administration and Food and Drug Administrations move to ban menthol cigarettes within the coming year.

This pro-health/anti-tobacco policy has been a long time coming, as its obvious that such flavorings are a primary factor in Big Tobaccos marketing to youth and specifically to Black Americans.

We know what those companies think of their own products and customers, as revealed in internal tobacco documents: We dont smoke that s-. We just sell it. We reserve the right to smoke for the young, the poor, the black and stupid.

The SFMMS has supported such a move for many years, including San Franciscos forward-looking ban on such products. Big Tobacco funded a recall of this policy, but were roundly rejected by San Francisco voters. Such bans have now been implemented in many other nations, and here it would lead almost a million smokers to quit in the first 18 months and save over 600,000 lives. Every day that these products are sold leads to more disease and death, so we urge that this long-awaited policy be implemented as soon as possible.

Monique Schaulis, San Francisco, president

of San Francisco Marin Medical Society

Police need retraining

Regarding the death of Mario Gonzalez and so many other people of color: Over and over, we see media coverage of police throwing people to the ground and jumping on their backs. This tactic, a debasement of humanity, is so prevalent that its surely a part of police training. Police, it seems to me, need retraining, not least in coming to terms with their fear of people of color and their lightning readiness to either jump on someones back or shoot. They need to be trained to respect fellow human beings and to understand that exerting hundreds of pounds on someones back can and does lead to death. This tactic, like choke holds, should be revisited by police trainers.

Jeannine Toussaint, San Francisco

Grateful for new bill

State Sen. Scott Wiener deserves our thanks for his bill prohibiting UCs partnerships with hospitals that have discriminatory policies. And heres hoping for a bill restricting UCs ability to exempt itself from its host cities and counties pesticide restrictions, landmark protections and open space mandates as well.

Carol Denney, Berkeley

High cost of textbooks

Students are making the decision to sacrifice their well-being due to the rising costs of textbooks. Education continues to be monopolized by such major publishing companies as Pearson, McGraw Hill, and Cengage, which control 80% of the marketplace, and prioritize wealth over our well-being. As a consequence, 65% of students, like myself, are choosing to opt out of buying textbooks, despite knowing the benefits of having them for class.

Open Education Resources pose a solution to this issue by providing students with the opportunity for high-quality, yet significantly-less-expensive, learning materials. OERs are faculty written, peer reviewed .pdfs that would be published under an open license and, more importantly, provide students the opportunity to succeed. It is crucial that the universities adopt a grant program to implement the use of OERs, as the rising costs of the textbooks market threatens the success of students.
Hong Kong: Building trust in virus fight

Chief Executive Carrie Lam

It gives me great pleasure to welcome you to this year's Hospital Authority (HA) Convention. For the very first time, this year's HA Convention is being held both in-person and online. But that should not lessen the significance of this important gathering of health experts and professionals held annually since 1993 in championing for quality care for the people of Hong Kong. Indeed, the fact that we could host an in-person convention when many places around the world are still battling against the pandemic is a heartening confirmation of the strength and resilience of Hong Kong's medical and health system.

This year's HA Convention takes place as the authority celebrates its 30th anniversary. If not because of COVID-19 and the Government's anti-epidemic measures in respect of border controls and social distancing, I am pretty sure that the HA would have organised a celebratory get-together for all those who have helped to shape the HA in the past three decades to have an occasion for reminiscence and renewing friendship. Had there been such an occasion, I would certainly attend as the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, but more affectionately, as a former HA board member and a close partner of the HA in my other official capacities. It is because of that association and affection, many of my colleagues will tell you that I am very passionate about how Government should devise its policies and plan Hong Kong's medical services with an aim to safeguard the health of the population.

While there is always room for service improvements, let me make it clear that our healthcare system has actually served us very well amidst the COVID-19 pandemic; both the public health and hospital systems have effectively stood up to this unprecedented and daunting test over the past 15 months. Hong Kong is one of the few places in the world in which every COVID-19 patient is being properly cared for, in terms of isolation and treatment, in public hospitals and related facilities. The HA and healthcare workers have worked throughout the pandemic with courage and dedication. For that, you have my heartfelt gratitude and deepest appreciation. And I am confident that, with your continuing commitment, Hong Kong will overcome this pandemic. The question, of course, is when that will be. To a considerable extent, it depends on the people of Hong Kong, on how quickly we can get the great majority to take advantage of our free, community-wide vaccination programme. I urge everyone to do so, sooner rather than later, in order to protect yourself and your family, and if we are to return to normality.

In the 15 months since the COVID-19 outbreak, like many places in the world, I believe we have learnt a great deal about the strengths and weaknesses of our healthcare system, and in particular, the direction we must take, the policies and programmes we must implement if we are to respond effectively and efficiently to a future pandemic or other major healthcare challenges. So allow me to share a few of my thoughts on this occasion.

Let me begin with President Xi Jinping's keynote address at the opening ceremony last month of the Boao Forum for Asia's annual conference. In his speech, President Xi called on all countries to defeat the pandemic, and I quote, through solidarity and co-operation. This is, in my view, first and foremost in defeating the virus.

Disease, after all, does not distinguish among races and peoples. It has no regard for a country's level of development. It observes no boundaries. A virus needs no passport to travel from one place to another. In this 21st century of economic globalisation and unfettered flow of people, we cannot build a wall against disease.

The answer is therefore concerted efforts and co-operation, between governments at the global and regional levels and across different sectors at the local level. In our case, since the first infected case was confirmed in late January 2020, the Hong Kong SAR Government set up a high-level steering committee chaired personally by the Chief Executive which comprises all principal officials, as well as the Director of Health and the HA's Chief Executive. An expert advisory panel consisting of four public health and medical experts was appointed from the same day to provide advice and guidance to our work. Other advisory panels were subsequently convened to help the Government to authorise vaccines for emergency use and to examine post-vaccination matters. Co-operation also comes from various universities in research and investigations, from the industrial sector in production of personal protective equipment, from the technology sector in coming up with innovative solutions on medical surveillance and contact tracing, from the elderly care sector in adopting infection control measures in their institutions, from the property management sector in supporting our compulsory testing and enforcement operations. It is therefore very disappointing that contrary to this joint effort approach, some healthcare staff had chosen to politicise anti-epidemic measures and engage in spreading inaccurate information.

My second takeaway is the importance of research and development and its application. In this respect, scientists all over the world have not failed us. Within a much compressed timetable for trials and evaluations, we now have vaccines authorised for emergency use which have been hailed as the only way to get humankind out of this unprecedented public health crisis. Given my Government's commitment to innovation and technology, I have attached importance to supporting R&D almost from day one. By now, $170 million has been allocated from the Food & Health Bureau's Health & Medical Research Fund and another $350 million set aside by the Research Grants Council of the University Grants Committee to fund COVID-19 related research. Some of these have already borne fruit. For example, rapid nucleic acid tests for COVID-19 developed by the University of Hong Kong research team are now being used by public healthcare laboratories in more than 70 countries and regions. The University of Hong Kong also picked up a Gold Medal with Congratulations at the International Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva for developing the world's first nasal spray vaccine for COVID-19, which is now undergoing clinical trial. An innovative sewage-testing tool for COVID-19 has helped us to monitor the spread of the virus in individual buildings. Based on these sewage findings, the Government has conducted compulsory testing of about 130 buildings identifying more than 50 confirmed cases. What is remarkable is that a significant number of the cases were actually found before there was even a confirmed case in those buildings.

The HA has also adopted technology usefully to provide care during the pandemic. There is the mobile application HA Go, which has piloted telehealth consultation for psychiatric services using video conferencing technology, while health staff have made rehabilitation exercise videos available to patients through HA Go. And I know that 5G is now being explored at Tseung Kwan O Hospital for real-time expert consultations and, down the road, even the viewing of complex medical procedures.

My third observation is that with more and more Hong Kong people moving to work and live in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Mainland cities, instead of requiring these HA patients to come back to HA hospitals to receive service, which has been impeded by the boundary control measures, innovative arrangements have to be found. Supported by the HA, the Food & Health Bureau has appointed an agent, in this case the University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, to take up consultations for HA patients in Guangdong. Up to the middle of April, the hospital has already conducted some 12,500 consultations involving 7,700 HA patients. This experience will provide useful reference for facilitating people flow in the Greater Bay Area development in future.

Finally, we have to recognise that the COVID-19 pandemic hit us at the time when Hong Kong was still haunted by anti-central government and anti-Hong Kong SAR Government chaos and violence since June 2019. One painful experience we have had in the fight against COVID-19 is how destructive misinformation could be. Despite that public safety is at stake, a small group of people have repeatedly sought to undermine our anti-epidemic efforts, including distorting the purpose of the Universal Community Testing Programme last September or slandering Mainland vaccines. To counter that, my Government has been highly transparent about our anti-epidemic initiatives and programmes, and will continue to promote objective understanding through various means, with a view to restoring and building trust in our community. It is through such trust and professionalism that we will overcome this challenge together.

After we have dealt with COVID-19, we still have much to do to strengthen our public health system to tackle the long-term challenges. In recent years, the Government has increased investment into this system to serve the people. For example, a special funding arrangement for the HA has been put in place to reflect the pressure arising from ageing of the population. As a result, recurrent subvention to the authority has increased by almost 30% over the past three years, amounting to $80.7 billion in 2021-22. In addition, through two successive commitments, a total of $500 billion has been set aside for upgrading and expanding our medical and health facilities. This includes two 10-year hospital development plans which together will provide an additional 15,000 beds, representing an increase of about 50% on top of the existing 29,000 beds in the authority, and related hospital facilities.

With enhanced hardware, we need to have sufficient manpower. It is no secret that Hong Kong has been facing a serious shortage of doctors, especially specialist doctors, and such a shortage has resulted in tremendous workload for our existing doctors, especially those in public hospitals, and in long waiting time for patients. Despite an increase in medical student intake into the two local medical schools, we have to accept that this alone will not be able to solve the problem, which is imminent. That is why I announced earlier this year that we will put in place an alternative pathway for the admission of non-locally trained doctors who are Hong Kong permanent residents to serve in public institutions. The bill to amend the Medical Registration Ordinance for this purpose will be ready later this month. And I appeal to our medical fraternity for their support.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Hospital Authority. I know I speak for the people of Hong Kong when I say that the authority and its some 84,000 staff have served Hong Kong people well. I take this opportunity to congratulate the Hospital Authority on its continuing achievements, and sincerely hope that through solidarity, co-operation, innovation, technology, communication and the building of trust, we can all look forward to maintaining high quality healthcare for our people.

Chief Executive Carrie Lam gave this speech at the Hospital Authority Convention 2021 opening ceremony on May 3.

This story has been published on: 2021-05-03. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Woburn, MA (01801)

Today

Overcast with rain showers at times. High 91F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Partly cloudy. Low 62F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph.
It will be years before the dream of building a large new park at Pier 42, near Gouverneur Street, is realized. But this past weekend, community activists, non-profit organizations and local politicians took an important symbolic step toward claiming the parcel along the East River for public use. A community day was held Saturday on Pier 42, the kickoff to a summer-long effort to engage residents in the future of the pier.

A year-and-a-half ago, the Lower Manhattan Development Corp. allocated $16 million for the first phase of the project. A design firm, Mathews Nielsen, will present preliminary master plans to Community Board 3 later this week, following a series of community vision sessions during the past several months. On Saturday, Sen. Squadron, who helped secure the funding along with U.S. Sen. Chuck Schumer, and representatives from non-profit organizations, who have led a long campaign for public access on the waterfront, celebrated the partial opening on Pier 42.

A section of the pier closest to East River Park was recently paved. Several groups, including Hester Street Collaborative, Two Bridges Neighborhood Council, CAAAV, Good Old Lower East Side and the LES Ecology Center teamed up to create Paths to Pier 42, a series of art, educational and design installations and public events. Theyre being supported by the Lower Manhattan Cultural Council, the Waterfront Alliance and Senator Squadron. Five artists were selected to take part in the project, which will be installed in July. They include:



Well have more on their individual projects in the weeks ahead. Anne Frederick, head of Hester Street Collaborative said, were excited to open the site and to begin to test out ideas, and to explore the communitys relationship to the water in the context of Hurricane Sandy. Each artist is working in tandem with a member of the Waterfront Alliance. CB3 Chairperson Gigi Li, noting that the neighborhood has less green space than any other community district, said, its imperative that community members have a say in how their park space used. Damaris Reyes, executive director of GOLES, said many of the low income residents her group represents were afraid years ago when the city signaled its desire to redevelop the waterfront. Thats why we need to be engaged in making sure we have a voice and that the waterfront is for everyone. Victor Papa of Two Bridges Neighborhood Council said hes happy the project is finally moving forward but urged Senator Squadron to cajole the city into moving more quickly on other stalled projects along the waterfront. The Lower East Side is always waiting, he observed. The promenade on South Street is not completed. Pier 35 is not completed. No one is working.

The Pier 42 master plans will be presented Thursday evening at 6:30 p.m. at the BRC Senior Center, 30 Delancey St. Parks Department officials have estimated it will eventually cost at least $50 million to build the park. See below for more photos from Saturdays event:
Count one advantage for Gov. Gavin Newsom as the recall campaign against him is ramping up: The Democratic Party is closing ranks around him.

President Joe Biden and I support him 100%, Vice President Kamala Harris told delegates at the California Democratic Partys four-day virtual convention that ended Sunday. We are going to keep him in Sacramento.

Newsom must keep Californias 10 million Democrats united if he wants to hold onto his job  but party unity is not a given.

Democrats split during the 2003 recall of Gov. Gray Davis after Lt. Gov Cruz Bustamante broke a pledge not to run and entered the field of replacement candidates. The entire delegation of California congressional Democrats opposed the recall but also supported Bustamante among that field, diluting Democratic support for keeping Davis. He lost, and Bustamante finished a distant second to Republican Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Newsoms camp is determined not to have anything like that happen to him. The weekends convention featured a parade of Democrats praising Newsom and denouncing the recall as everything from a waste of tens of millions of dollars to a scheme hatched by Donald Trump supporters to bypass the traditional election calendar. The Republicans havent won a statewide office since 2006.

It is unnecessary, it is opportunistic, its a right-wing recall, former Sen. Barbara Boxer told delegates who were watching online. If these Trump Republicans want to run for governor, let them run when Gavins term is up (in 2022). But dont put us through all this chaos.

So far, no Democrat has announced as a replacement candidate for the recall election, which is likely to be held in November. And unlike Davis, Newsom can apparently count on his lieutenant governors support, as Eleni Kounalakis urged the 3,550 party delegates and other Democrats to stand with our governor and make sure that this Republican-led recall fails.

California Republican Party chair Jessica Millan Patterson wasnt impressed. She said Sunday that Democrats are clearly prepared to bury their heads in the sand and excuse the fact that California is on the wrong track under their failed governor.

Four Republicans are already running in hopes of replacing Newsom: San Diego-area businessman John Cox, who lost badly to Newsom in the 2018 governors race, former San Diego Mayor Kevin Faulconer, former Sacramento-area Rep. Doug Ose, and reality TV star and former Olympic gold medal-winning decathlete Caitlyn Jenner.

Newsom, who cannot run as a replacement candidate, will survive the recall if a majority of voters oppose it. If he loses, whichever replacement candidate has the most votes will become governor  there would be no runoff between the top two finishers.

Democrats may be finding it easier to rally around Newsom because, unlike Davis in 2003, hes doing well in the polls. A survey last week by the nonpartisan Public Policy Institute of California found 59% of likely voters approved of the way Newsom is handling reopening schools for in-person learning, while 40% disapproved. A March survey by the same organization found that 56% of likely voters opposed removing Newsom from office, while 40% backed the recall.

Other Democrats, including state Controller Betty Yee, Californias chief fiscal officer, derided the recalls potential cost to taxpayers. State officials have yet to determine the cost of holding the election, but Yee railed at the prospect of throwing away $90 million on a partisan recall that is nothing more than a power grab.

I know a thing or two about Californias finances, and $90 million could help tens of thousands of families with rent, keeping them from becoming homeless, said Yee, who was also just elected one of the state partys vice chairs.

Despite the consistent messaging, the partys inability to hold an in-person convention because of COVID-19 precautions was a problem for Newsom.

The partys most fervent supporters show up for in-person conventions, making them an ideal place to whip up enthusiasm among grassroots Democrats. Newsom will need that type of energetic support for an off-year election that wasnt on anyones calendar. But energy was tamped down at a virtual convention where all the big-name Democrats who spoke did so via recorded messages, some of which were filmed weeks ago.

To try to fill in the gaps, Newsom and his surrogates connected with activists online over the weekend.

Ive been in many meetings, and the recall is our focus, said Ada Briceno, chair of the Orange County Democratic Party. We know that in 2021 were stopping the recall, and in 2022 were electing more Democrats.

Briceno said Orange County activists have been organizing against the recall for weeks, and so has Newsoms campaign. More than 2,000 volunteers have sent 6 million texts since mid-March to rally supporters, according to Newsoms campaign. During his entire 2018 campaign for governor, the Newsom campaign sent 10 million such texts.

The governor himself alluded to the recall in his talk to delegates Saturday, sticking to his campaigns message that its the work of national Republicans and extreme right-wingers.

Former state party chair and San Francisco Rep. John Burton made sure the party activists understood their mission.

So when you leave here, have one thing in common, Burton said. Beat the recall, keep Gavin Newsom, and send the Republicans a message.

Joe Garofoli is The San Francisco Chronicles senior political writer. Email: jgarofoli@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @joegarofoli
SACRAMENTO  Californias main rebate program to coax more drivers to buy electric cars has run out of money  and theres no guarantee that buyers on the waiting list will get checks later.

The program, one of the largest electric-car rebate efforts in the world, is destined to end unless the Legislature goes against Gov. Gavin Newsoms plan to cut funding for it next fiscal year, starting July 1.

Newsom wants to redirect money that has gone to most buyers of new electric cars, spending it instead to increase incentives for lower-income buyers. He also wants to install more public charging stations.

But he faces resistance from some legislators and electric-car advocates, who say cutting rebates could undermine the states climate goals.

Money for the rebate program ran out last month. Electric vehicle sales surged in the first few months of this year, after plummeting in the early days of the coronavirus pandemic.

The California Air Resources Board, the air-pollution agency that runs the rebate program, started a waiting list late last month for buyers hoping to get rebates.

That has been a near-annual event since the state rebates began in 2010. Money typically runs out well before the end of the fiscal year, forcing buyers onto the dreaded waiting list for months until new state funding kicks in. The rebate for most buyers is $2,000.

This time, however, drivers on the list may never get rebates.

State Sen. Bob Wieckowski, the Fremont Democrat who chairs the budget subcommittee on environmental protection, said cutting the rebate program makes no sense when the program has made California one of the largest electric-car markets in the world.

Its the most popular program, Wieckowski said. So why would we get rid of the program now when people are already lined up? Its just nuts.

California has issued more than 409,000 rebates in the past decade, totaling $935 million. Nearly two-thirds of electric-car buyers have received the state subsidies.

But most of the money has gone to buyers with incomes above $100,000, according to a Chronicle analysis. In 2016, the state created income limits for the rebate program, excluding people who earn $150,000 or more a year, or $300,000 for joint tax filers.

Newsoms budget for next year includes $1.5 billion to speed Californias transition to electric cars, including up to $1 billion in bonds to ramp up construction of charging stations along roadways.

Most of the rest of the money, $465 million, would help people buy electric cars. But the money wouldnt go to rebates for the general public  it would be earmarked for grants for lower-income buyers and funding to help businesses and local governments buy zero-emissions buses, trucks and other heavy-duty vehicles.

Newsom said the strategy would show that its not just about expensive, fancy cars, and the rest of us are left behind.

Bill Magavern, policy director of the Coalition for Clean Air, said Newsoms plan appropriately puts the emphasis on subsidies for less affluent buyers and programs to clean up diesel exhaust.

A much more targeted approach makes sense, where people with modest incomes can get the help that they need, Magavern said. Which really can change their lives.

But some electric-car buyers and legislators say cutting rebates could undermine Newsoms goal of eliminating the sale of new gas-powered cars starting in 2035. The state is nowhere near on pace  only about 8% of vehicles sold now in California are electric.

Without rebates, it would be a significant step backwards in this struggle to transform our vehicles into clean cars, said Assembly Member Phil Ting, the San Francisco Democrat who chairs the Budget Committee.

Ting said Assembly Democrats will propose restoring funding for the program, though they have yet to set an amount. In the Senate, Democrats have proposed to spend $525 million on rebates over the next three years.

Newsoms office said he will continue to negotiate with the Legislature on funding for rebates. Many electric-car advocates say the states move to create a waiting list could be a promising sign.

Even if rebates are cut, all drivers can receive a $1,500 discount when they buy at the dealership under a new program funded by electric utilities, and federal tax credits are available for many electric models. Low-income buyers are also eligible now for state grants of up to $9,500 to trade in their gas guzzlers for electric cars.

If California cuts rebates, some experts say sales of electric-cars could plummet, since their sticker prices are typically thousands of dollars more than for comparable gas-powered cars. Lillian Mirviss, senior government affairs manager for the Center for Sustainable Energy, a nonprofit firm that helps run the states rebate program, said other states that cut rebates saw interest in electric cars dwindle.

She pointed to Georgia, where sales of electric vehicles fell 80% after the state eliminated a tax credit in 2015.

Incentives are why California is leading the nation in EV adoption, but we havent made it into the end zone yet, Mirviss said.

Dan Sperling, founding director at the Institute of Transportation Studies at UC Davis and a member of the state Air Resources Board, said California will need incentives for a long time because many car buyers look only at the upfront cost, and dont factor in electric models savings on gas and maintenance. The net savings can add up to $6,000 to $10,000 over the life of a vehicle, according to an analysis by Consumer Reports.

Sperling said the current rebate program is flawed because yearly debates in Sacramento about whether to provide funding create uncertainty for buyers.

They make a political determination every year on how much theyre going to allocate, he said. Theres no long-term commitment to the payouts.

Dustin Gardiner is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: dustin.gardiner@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @dustingardiner
The Cheese Boards remaining founder has died.

Elizabeth Valoma, who co-founded The Cheese Board with former husband Sahag Avedisian in 1967, passed away at the age of 91, as first reported by the San Francisco Chronicle. (SFGATE and the San Francisco Chronicle are both owned by Hearst but operate independently of one another.)

On Friday, Cheese Board Pizza shared an image on Twitter of the handwritten tribute to Valoma, which included photographs of the co-founder throughout the years.

Elizabeths passing is an enormous loss to all those whose lives she touched with her larger than-life heart, Cheese Board Pizza wrote. She founded the Cheeseboard 54 years ago, creating a business that embodies the spirit of community, family, and collective ownership. Her generous spirit will remain in our hearts always.

When Valoma and Avedisian first opened The Cheese Board, its said that they invested a few hundred dollars on high-quality cheeses, according to a 2011 report by Berkeleyside. It was a rough start as the couple earned less than a hundred dollars in sales on its opening day. But as the American palate adjusted with the farm to fork movement, things changed for the better.

Just four years after The Cheese Board opened, Valoma and Avedisian wanted to modify the way the store operated as a means to run a democratic shop, Berkeleyside wrote. So, in 1971 they sold the business to their employees and established a cooperative that continues today. Later, Cheese Board Pizza opened next door where its been slinging pizza pies since 1985.

Courtesy of Deborah Valoma

Avedisian, who died in 2007, left the collective many years before his passing, but Valoma continued to work at The Cheese Board through her 80s where she did two shifts a week, according to Berkeleyside. The cause of death is unclear. SFGATE reached out to The Cheese Board for comment and will update the story if we hear back.

The Cheese Board is located at 1504 Shattuck Ave. in Berkeley.
Heres an update on the planning for Essex Crossing, the large residential and commercial project coming to the former Seward Park urban renewal area.

First off, Community Board 3 has been asked by Delancey Street Associates, the development team, to appoint a group to provide input regarding a park-like space on Broome Street. The community-driven process is part of the agreement signed by the builders earlier this year. Last week, CB3 announced that its parks committee would be the venue for envisioning the 15,000 square foot park. Public meetings will take place in the first part of 2014 to solicit feedback from the neighborhood. Also, CB3 has appointed a point-person to work with the developers with the overall design of Essex Crossing. Gigi Li, the community boards chairperson, has given the job to Ricky Leung, who served on the committee that has spent much of the past four years developing guidelines for the Seward Park project. In addition to his role as a tenant activist in the Two Bridges Neighborhood, Leung is an architect. Hell work in tandem with a community task force advising the developers.

Also last week, the land use committee discussed the future of vendors in the Essex Street Market. As we have been reporting, longtime vendor Carmen Salvador of Three Brothers Clothing was forced from the market. She has now filed a lawsuit against the Economic Development Corp., which runs the Essex Market and is overseeing the Seward Park development project. The city did not send a representative to the meeting and has declined to discuss Salvadors situation other than to say she was given several opportunities to address issues (which  according to Salvador  concern her operating days and hours). The land use committee approved a resolution acknowledging that all the facts are not publicly known but objecting to the eviction, which Salvador said happened before the city provided any kind of written notice. The community board is calling on the EDC to provide clear procedures for terminating vendor permits. Agreements between CB3 and the city protect all merchants in good standing who wish to make the move to a new market when it opens several years for now. CB3 now wants to establish guidelines protecting the vendors between now and then. Representatives of a new Essex Street market vendor association wanted to testify last week, but they were unable to attend due to the holiday shopping rush.
A man came home Friday evening to a perplexing scene: His girlfriend's two dogs were outside the Durango, Colo., residence, their leashes still on. But his girlfriend was nowhere to be found.

He spent an hour searching before he found her body about 9:30 p.m. The 39-year-old woman had been killed in a bear attack while walking her dogs - an extraordinarily rare incident. The state has recorded three other such cases in the past 50 years.

"This is a tragic event and a sad reminder that bears are wild and potentially dangerous," Cory Chick, Southwest region manager for Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW), said in a news release.

Authorities have not publicly identified the woman or her boyfriend. Officials killed a female black bear and two cubs after using dogs to track them down in the area, with the wildlife agency saying the animals were "removed for public safety."

CPW spokesman Jason Clay told the Durango Herald that the agency's policy is to put down bears after attacks on humans, adding that "our No. 1 job is always to keep human health and safety in mind."

The La Plata County Coroner's Office plans to perform an autopsy on the woman's body to determine the cause of death. Wildlife officers summoned to the scene after the boyfriend found the body and called 911 saw signs that she had been partially eaten. They also saw bear scat and hair in the area off Highway 550, north of Durango.

A team from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Wildlife Services quickly found the three bears nearby Friday. The bodies of the bears are being taken to a Colorado Parks and Wildlife's lab in Fort Collins for a necropsy, and DNA from the bears and the scene is heading to another lab for testing.

"That could determine absolutely these were the bears that were responsible," Clay told the Herald. He said the agency is "confident, but the DNA can prove that definitively."

Based on an evaluation of the female black bear's teeth, wildlife officers say she was more than 10 years old. They spent hours at the scene, working through the night and into Saturday, searching for evidence to corroborate that the incident was a bear attack.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife has received several reports of bears becoming active this spring in the Durango area, located in the southwestern corner of the state. The majority have been sightings, the agency said in its news release. On March 23, someone reported a bear getting into trash, and a resident said a bear had torn down his bird feeder two weeks ago.

Black bears are generally smaller than grizzly bears, with males averaging about 275 pounds and females about 175 pounds, according to the state wildlife agency. Colorado once had both, but the last grizzly bear in the state was killed in 1979. Now, it's home to an estimated 17,000 to 20,000 black bears in a habitat increasingly encroached upon by humans, creating the potential for more encounters, Colorado Parks and Wildlife said in a report.

The bears are naturally shy and wary of people. Typically, their instinct is to run away from potential danger, according to the wildlife agency.

Across the nation, recent encounters include a 16-year-old runner killed by a black bear in 2017 after going off course during a race near Anchorage. In 2019, a camera caught a father and son shooting and killing a mother black bear and cubs as they were bedded down for winter in Prince William Sound, Alaska.

Months later, Oregon wildlife officials euthanized a young bear after determining that he had become too comfortable with humans.

Experts have said bear attacks on humans are often related to dogs. Dave Garshelis, a former bear research scientist with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, told ABC News that there have been cases of dog owners getting hurt when trying to intervene in conflicts between bears and dogs. In others, he said, the dog runs to its owner for protection and "next thing you know the bear is two feet away."

CPW officials recommend that people make their presence known while in bear country. Clay suggested making noise or walking with a friend, the Herald reported. He said bear spray and air horns can be used as deterrents.

During run-ins with bears, he said, people should stand still and speak calmly. If the bear does not leave, they should stay in place while waving their arms to look bigger.

Wildlife experts and authorities say it's rare for a black bear to become aggressive with a human. But Clay told the Herald that such instances call for fighting back "with everything that you've got."

"These are wild animals," he said, "and bears are dangerous animals."
A Black man with intellectual disabilities who was enslaved for five years at a restaurant in Conway, S.C., should be awarded double the amount of restitution from the White man now imprisoned for the crime, according to a recent court ruling.

As part of his 2019 guilty plea to a forced labor charge, Bobby Paul Edwards, 56, was sentenced to 10 years in prison and ordered by a court to pay John Christopher Smith $273,000 in unpaid wages and overtime compensation at J&J Cafeteria.

The 4th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled on April 21 that the previous amount decided by a district court "had erred" in not accounting for federal labor laws entitling him to $546,000, or double the amount he was owed from his imprisonment between 2009 and 2014. Through physical violence, threats and intimidation, Edwards coerced Smith, 43, into working more than 100 hours per week without pay, The Washington Post reported.

The appellate court sent the ruling back to the district court to recalculate Smith's award based on the delay in getting his payment under federal labor laws.

"When an employer fails to pay those amounts (regular and overtime pay), the employee suffers losses, which includes the loss of the use of that money during the period of delay," the court said in its filing.

Edwards's public defender did not immediately respond to a request for comment about the latest ruling.

Smith started washing dishes and busing tables at J&J Cafeteria in 1990, when he was 12 years old. He had loved his full-time employment there when the business was operated by Edwards's relatives, according to court documents.

But when Edwards took over managing the restaurant in September 2009, wages would soon be nonexistent.

Edwards moved Smith into a roach-infested apartment he owned that Smith's attorneys later described as "sub-human," "deplorable" and "harmful to human health."

Smith was forced to work more than 100 hours each week without pay and no days off while Edwards took advantage of the Black man's mild cognitive disability, court records state.

Edwards's "reign of terror" included keeping Smith isolated from his family, threatening to have him arrested and calling him racial slurs.

Smith said he felt like he was in prison with the threat of death.

"Most of the time I felt unsafe, like Bobby could kill me if he wanted," he said, according to court records. "I wanted to get out of that place so bad but couldn't think about how I could without being hurt."

Smith said Edwards injured him many times over the years. He was whipped with belts and kitchen pans and punched multiple times by Edwards, court records state.

One of the more heinous alleged acts of brutality came when Edwards thought Smith did not deliver fried chicken to the buffet as quickly as he demanded. In response, Edwards dipped metal tongs into hot grease and pressed them into Smith's neck, according to court records.

Fellow employees at the restaurant who heard or had seen the abuse were reluctant to report it out of fear of Edwards.

Geneane Caines helped put an end to Smith's abuse when she reported him to authorities in October 2014. Caines had a daughter-in-law who worked at the restaurant and got involved because she cared about Smith's safety, according to WYFF.

"Customers that were going in there would hear stuff and they didn't know what was going on, and they would ask the waitresses, and the waitresses were so scared of Bobby they wouldn't tell them then what it was," she said to WMBF.

Smith was immediately taken into Adult Protective Services, and Edwards was charged with second-degree assault and "attempt to establish peonage, slavery, involuntary servitude or human trafficking."

"For stealing his victim's freedom and wages, Mr. Edwards has earned every day of his sentence," Sherri A. Lydon, U.S. attorney for the District of South Carolina, said in 2019. "The U.S. Attorney's Office will not tolerate forced or exploitative labor in South Carolina, and we are grateful to the watchful citizen and our partners in law enforcement who put a stop to this particularly cruel violence."

- - -

The Washington Post's Derek Hawkins and Michael Brice-Saddler contributed to this report.
After months of pleas from their attorneys and from Community Board 3, the city has finally agreed to give six families living in a doomed building at 400 Grand St. priority status for new affordable apartments in the Essex Crossing project. The decision from the commissioner of the Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) was announced last night at a meeting of CB3s land use committee.

The building sits on site #5 of the large redevelopment project, which is expected to break ground in one year. Several weeks ago, the residents were given a tentative move-out date of June 30, although officials said there is no firm deadline. The developers, Delancey Street Associates, have begun the process with the Department of Buildings to demolish 400 Grand St. and 402 Grand St., a three story building whose only tenant is a shoe repair store.

Previously the city offered relocation assistance, including 42 months of rent subsidies to make up the difference between what they are paying now and what theyll be required to pay in new apartments. But until last night, HPD had resisted offering the current residents the same right to return granted to former site tenants of the Seward Park urban renewal area (SPURA). Now, theyll be on equal footing with people who lived on the SPURA parcels when they were condemned 47 years ago. The focus has now shifted to finding the tenants temporary homes while Essex Crossing is under construction.

Sam Lui, an attorney for Manhattan Legal Services, spoke for the residents last night. He said the options floated by the city so far (apartments in public housing and units operated by the Cooper Square Mutual Housing Association) have been inadequate. Only two families qualify for Cooper square co-op apartments. One family isnt eligible for a NYCHA apartment.

Damaris Reyes, a public member of the CB3 panel and the executive director of GOLES (a tenant advocacy group) was even more emphatic. She noted that the city had, at one time, led the residents to believe they could become owners of their apartments on Grand Street. She also pointed out theyd already been relocated several years ago from a building on East Houston Street that was being primed for an upscale makeover. I want to make sure that HPD doesnt do the bear minimum, Reyes said, adding, so far the options are very disappointing. She vowed that GOLES would come to HPD demanding answers if the tenants are not offered suitable housing alternatives. Linda Jones, chairperson of the land use committee promised the tenants, we will stay with you until you find housing and she said the issue will continue to appear on the community board agenda every month until that time.

Isaac Henderson with L+M Development (one of the Essex Crossing partners) was on hand to explain the steps required before demolition can take place. Yesterday afternoon, we reported on a Department of Buildings application that popped up online, carrying the description, full demolition of 400 and 402 Grand St. Henderson said the initial application is for a means and methods plan, the first sstage in a long process that must be completed. He indicated it would take 6-12 months or longer before the city officially signs off on demolition. The city is retaining ownership of the parcel until next year, when a full construction plan is in place.

The residents of 400 Grand St. have been battling the city for the past four years.

The fate of one other tenant in the building, the Lower East Side Jewish Conservancy, remains uncertain. Discussions are ongoing with the developers about possibly carving out space for the organizations visitor center somewhere within the new project.
TORONTO - Nearly three months after Canada declared the Proud Boys a terrorist entity, the Canadian chapter of the militant far-right group claims it has "officially dissolved." But analysts warned that the organization could still rebrand, and its radicalized members could find new homes.

Members of the Proud Boys, founded in the United States by a Canadian, joined the violent mob that stormed the U.S. Capitol in January.

In a statement posted on social media on Sunday, the group said "there is officially no longer any Proud Boys in Canada." It cited the financial difficulties of mounting a legal challenge to overturn the government's terrorist entity designation.

The designation in February did not make it illegal to belong to the group, but it did carry financial and legal consequences. Authorities can add members to the no-fly list. Banks can freeze their assets and police can seize their property. It's a crime to knowingly provide assistance to the group, including by purchasing merchandise.

"The truth is we were never terrorists or a white supremacy group," the Canadian chapter said in its statement, posted to the main Proud Boys channel on the Telegram messaging app. "As a fraternity of men we had thought of pursuing the case legally but we have no financial support, given we are not funded by the rich."

Jessica Davis, a former analyst at the Canadian Security Intelligence Service, said being on the same list as al-Qaeda and the Islamic State might have served as a "wake-up call" for some members, but that doesn't mean all have disavowed their views.

"Their disbanding really just means they're probably not going to be using the name Proud Boys anymore," said Davis, president of the consulting group Insight Threat Intelligence. "But their hardcore members, the ones that are radicalized, the ones that are engaging in violence and protests are still radicalized. . . .

"I really see it as just dropping the name, but not necessarily dropping the ideology."

The Proud Boys have come under increasing scrutiny since the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol, which led to five deaths. Analysts say they were emboldened last fall when President Donald Trump, pressed during a presidential debate to condemn them, told members instead to "stand back and stand by."

Canada is believed to be the first country to have declared the Proud Boys a terrorist entity. The United States is conducting its own review.

Canadian Public Safety Minister Bill Blair said in February that the group posed the "most significant threat" to domestic security. He said intelligence officials, who had monitored the group since 2018, had noted an "escalation toward violence," and the Capitol attack produced evidence that helped inform the decision.

The Proud Boys, a group of self-described "Western chauvinists" formed by Canadian Gavin McInnes, have had a smaller footprint in Canada than in the United States. At least one chapter here said in January that it was disbanding. Global News reported last month that Colin A. Browne, an Ontario lawyer who identified as a Proud Boy, was pursuing a legal challenge to the terrorist designation. He did not immediately respond to a request for comment Monday.

Evan Balgord, executive director of the Canadian Anti-Hate Network, said the Canadian chapter was "already in a decline" and that its more violent members had in recent years split off from the main organization, forming a group called Canada First.

"Should we take it seriously? It's posted on one of the places that they post their actual announcements," Balgord said. "Does this mean that there's never going to be another chapter or people calling themselves Proud Boys in Canada? No. . . . But it's about as official as it can be when it's so loosely organized."

Several prominent Proud Boys have faced federal charges since the attack on the Capitol. Prosecutors allege that some were closely involved in planning much of the violence, and that they led early efforts to overwhelm police and to break into the building.

In the weeks since, analysts say, some members have sought to distance themselves from the organization. Several U.S. chapters have split from the national organization and denounced it, leading to concerns that the remaining core could develop into a more violent organization led by its more extremist members.

In a statement posted to the Telegram channel, the U.S. Proud Boys said the Canadian chapter had "become a political tool by the ruling elite of the Canadian government." It said the "livelihoods" of its Canadian members "must come first."

"The ProudBoys in Canada is no more," it said. "Anyone walking around in Fred Perry polos and ProudBoys gear are simply posers."

Canadian lawmakers voted unanimously in January to urge the government of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to designate the group a terrorist entity "immediately." The nonbinding move drew a backlash from national security analysts, who said that it risked the politicization of what's supposed to be a legal process.

At the time of Blair's announcement, some analysts asked why ideologically similar groups weren't also listed. Blair denied that the listing was influenced by politics.

The International Civil Liberties Monitoring Group, an Ottawa-based nonprofit, said it recognized "the pressing need to address the threat of white supremacist and hate-based violence in Canada." But it was concerned that labeling the Proud Boys a terrorist entity would expand the definition of the term in a way that could be harmful.

"Future Canadian governments could easily take advantage of a growing acceptance of the terrorist entities list to add those fighting for justice - but against their political interests - to the list," national coordinator Tim McSorley said in February. "And we would be left without credibility to challenge them."
By Lucia Cheng

chengluc@grinnell.edu

What does it mean to be Asian American? Is there a pan-Asian American identity? Will we find answers to how we can reconcile being a part of a diaspora to our role in society today? In other words: if it looks like a duck, walks like a duck and quacks like a duck, is it Asian American?

As a Chinese American struggling with these questions myself, I talked to individuals from Grinnell College about how they wrestle with their racial identity in this present moment.

There is no single story that can explain what its like to be held up as a model minority and yet still be discriminated against. We each come with our own unique voices, some of which are collected here, a time capsule of how individuals view their identities. In the wake of the Atlanta shootings, horrific violence can reduce us to a narrative of victimhood, erasing the nuanced differences between us and hiding those identities, resulting in a shallow version of solidarity held together by a racial label.

(And I have to correct a mistake on my part  in this article, you will read interviews from, specifically, East Asian Americans. Because Asian Americans are not a monolith.)

We can stand in solidarity with the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community while recognizing our different lived experiences. Which gets at the main question plaguing us today: what does that solidarity even look like anyway?

Interviews have been edited for length and clarity.

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Lizzy Zerez 22 Elizabeth (Lizzy) Zerez `22 is an English major who grew up in Hawaii in a community with other mixed Asian individuals. She is half Chinese and half Middle Eastern, which, according to Zerez, leads to much confusion over her last name. The S&B: Where did you grow up? How does it compare to Grinnell? Zerez: Being from Hawaii, I rarely felt like I stood out as a minority. When I came to Grinnell, I was donning the Asian American label for the first time. And its something Im still trying to figure out to this day. Ive been myself my whole life, but I never became a person of color, so to speak, until I came to Grinnell. I remember this moment in my freshman year, when I was in my dorm room, as one is. I looked in the mirror and, for the first time, I saw something. I saw something besides the face that I always saw in the morning. And I got it. I dont really look like everyone else. Which is a weird thing to say because Grinnell is very quote unquote diverse, but still, the majority of students are white. I think thats when I realized the Asian American label was coming on to me. [In Hawaii, conversation about race] felt very comfortable and normal, because Id be talking to other mixed Chinese or Chinese people. I sometimes feel like, in Grinnell, part of these conversations is me explaining myself and hoping that people take my word for it. I definitely feel a bit out of place [at Grinnell,] even if no one said anything overtly racist. I felt like there was no common ground culturally anymore. I felt a little bit like I was code switching all the time. What does an Asian American identity mean to you? I almost feel like a newbie at being Asian American. It was a privilege to be raised in an environment where I was largely in the neutral group. In some ways, I feel like I dont quite belong as an Asian, like a mainland Asian American. Lately, Im coming to a place of more pride. I wonder if that comes from, Well, if I dont have this really strong pride, will I get walked all over? Its something I cling onto, especially at Grinnell. When I was removed from the environment being surrounded by people like me, I clung to rediscovering. What do you think about the AAPI label? Largely speaking, the Asian experience is so different from the Pacific Islander experience. To me, Pacific Islanders in Hawaii have faced the threat of colonialism and mainland Asians havent necessarily had to experience that in America. It is not their native land. I do know people who appreciate that label, and who do feel like its applicable to them. Theres a solidarity to be found when you create a unifying label like that. Even just Asian American can mean so many different things, which is why I was hesitant to say, Oh, the Asian experience is so different from the Pacific Islander experience. Filipinos also experienced colonialism, and that history still affects Filipino Americans. There are also hierarchies within the Asian American community. For first generation immigrant kids, if you still speak the language of your mother country, that puts you above those who dont speak it. If youre full race, that puts you above the mixed kids. It comes from a place of wanting to preserve culture, to hold onto it, even if youre away from the home country. At the same time, assimilation is sometimes a defense mechanism, and you have to do it to survive. What does culture mean to you? When I think of culture, I think about food, holidays, and also the values you were raised with, how you were taught to act and think. And definitely language. My grandma and her siblings are the last generation of my family to speak a Cantonese dialect. I dont think she saw the point in passing it down, because now, everyone around her is an English speaker. I think they knew it would be easier to focus just on English. For me, I have been learning Mandarin for a while since I was a kid, which is kind of funny because my family doesnt speak Mandarin. Its much harder to find a class to take Cantonese lessons. I also didnt grow up speaking Arabic. There are not a lot of Middle Eastern people in Hawaii, and I asked my dad once, Did you ever think about speaking to me in Arabic when I was young? And he said he didnt want to impose it on me. Its a very interesting way to put it, because where we live, English is the default. And anything else is seen as secondary.

Professor Sharon Quinsaat Sharon Quinsaat is an assistant professor in sociology and a part of the faculty with the peace and conflict studies program, as well as the American studies concentration. She was an international student from the Philippines and came to the U.S. as a Fulbright Scholar to study before her masters degree. She developed her interest in migration by learning about her mothers experience as a migrant, thus leading her to Grinnell. The S&B: What was your perspective as an international student coming to the States for the first time? Quinsaat: I did a lot of thinking about the ways in which I could identify with Filipino Americans who were born in the U.S.. In my perspective, they were just Americans, in ways of thought and practices. And Im not. The way I understand race is that Im coming from a society where Im part of the so-called dominant group in terms of ethnicity. Theres a process of racialization. The divide is mostly among Christians and Muslims in the Philippines, and then you have the indigenous population, but there are also ethnic divisions among people in the Philippines. Im part of the more dominant ethno-linguistic group in terms of numbers as well as politically and economically. But, when I came to the U.S., I immediately became this racialized individual, and I was categorized as Asian. For example, if youre Filipino, it becomes less and less visible for other Americans, and they will just code you as Asian. I had to resocialize to get to that kind of racial description. Thats a very U.S.-centric approach to knowledge. There are things that you cant learn by reading about it. You need to experience it. How did immigrants handle becoming racialized? For a lot of Asian immigrants, its stratified by class. The way they understand their own experience is also mediated by their experience within the labor structure of American society. So, the belief, for instance, among many of those who [have high class mobility] already, are Asians who work in Silicon Valley. Some of them may think that this idea of American Dream was right and believe there is a middle class of high skilled workers. Theres a reinforcement of that sort of thinking that there is mobility through the labor that they put in the tech sector. If there is so much stratification, is there a meaning to the label Asian American? The panethnicity was constructed specifically in the 60s during this time of social unrest, and a lot of organizing by racial groups for the civil rights movement. They constructed this notion of panethnicity as something that is not only imposed from above, as something imposed by the state, but also constructed from below, as a means of claiming resources inside and outside the community. What makes [the label Asian American] important is that [Asian American activists] reclaimed it. They reclaimed that external, socially imposed category, and made it a political identity. Were divided based on our history of conflict within the regions. But our history of common oppression here will unite us. The ways in which the state, and even the dominant group, especially look at us as forever foreign. Its a way for us, too, to build a culture of resistance. If Asian American has been used as a political identity, what does this mean for the commodification of culture? What is Asian American culture anyway? What does that even mean, right? Did we have a meeting, and agree that, This is an Asian American movie, or something? People tend to think we all originated from some kind of culture that engages with dragons or ninjas. You are reduced to that. You are commodified. Because people think that there is an essence, Asian in a bottle. And then you sell it. That functions with consumer-capitalist culture. But culture is not like that, in that sense that culture is tied to identities and communities. Asians here in the United States, and in the diaspora, are influenced by whats going on in our homelands, or our ancestors homelands. The geopolitical relations among various states impact us broadly.  Theres tension and contradictions, and when youre doing anti-racist work, you have to navigate these cracks and fissures. You have to achieve a balance between being critical of the Chinese state or the Chinese government, without adding to the already anti-China rhetoric of the dominant white majority that is controlling the U.S. state. How does this affect how information is passed down throughout the generations? Many groups who came in as refugees  Vietnamese, Cambodians and Laotians, for instance  have been brutalized by war. They didnt have a lot of cultural capital when they came to the U.S.. But they also cant talk about the war and havent passed down these narratives of the war to their children. Theres no healing on the part of many Cambodian Americans. The thing about identity construction is that it is relational, its dynamic, its interactive. If youre unable to talk to your parents about this, then how do you learn about who you are? And there are those groups whose parents came here with a lot of cultural capital. They are educated and came in as doctors. They have PhDs. Theyre able to transmit a lot of these narratives to their children in ways that help them understand who they are and also how to adapt to American society. Thats why we cannot speak of an Asian American experience, because theres no single Asian American experience. What does standing in solidarity with the AAPI community look like to you? So many conversations, especially after the shooting in Atlanta, is to center our solidarity on the most vulnerable in our community, which are those which are precariously employed, women especially. What does it mean if we center our analysis, looking at these women who are in survival jobs and cannot work from home, who are abused by their employers because they cannot speak English, and who are also sexualized based on their work? That is a way for us to build infrastructures within our community. Theres also trying to address our own practices that perpetuate misogyny, like the class system for example. I always go back to looking at the systems of capitalism and white supremacy, etc. etc. That needs to be addressed and we cannot do that without a multiracial, multiclass alliance. We need to be building a movement that really goes into the core of that ideology. If we really want systemic change, then we have to name the systems that perpetuate oppression. Capitalism, white supremacy, patriarchy, imperialism.

Alexander Sun 23 Alexander Sun `23 spent his early childhood years in Beijing, China, before moving to the United States the summer of his high school freshman year. While he considers himself to be predominantly Chinese, he was influenced by U.S. culture through his primary and international middle school, knowing his family would eventually move back to the States. The S&B: What was it like to become Asian American when you moved here? Sun: The first day of high school, I was really surprised by how many Asians were at the school district, because after all, [San Marino] is primarily Asian. One of the weirdest things I experienced was the dichotomy between Asian Americans and just Asians. A term that is tossed around a lot in the San Gabriel Valley is fob, which is short for fresh off the boat. People thought I was one, because I had just moved from China, and the first response they had  even from Asian Americans  was, Wow, your English is really good. Thats something that always bothered me. I also occasionally partook in that culture of looking at fobs as beneath us, because they werent as integrated or assimilated. And it was weird, looking back, because Im not sure how that manifested. (Editors Note: Fob is generally seen as a derogatory term for recent immigrants from Asia who look noticeably different.) What was the dichotomy between Asians and Asian Americans like? I remember a few friends and I were surprised when some of the Asians at San Marino didnt know that much about their heritage. When we were covering the Vietnam War in my history class, a lot of students spoke about their families and what they learned, and I was surprised that they didnt know it already. In my experience, my grandparents always told me a lot about what life was like for them. They grew up under the nationalists during World War Two. In fact, my great grandparents on my mothers side were nationalist agents. They were in [Chongqing] when the Imperial Japanese Air Force started bombing that area. And they fled, and thankfully they survived through the war, otherwise I wouldnt be here. Those are the stories I grew up with. Is there a pan-Asian American identity? Theres a lot of casual racism in mainland China towards minority ethnic groups, and from the Japanese to the Koreans. Theres a lot of deep-rooted hate. And its to the point that, because of education and the way weve been raised, its almost become casual. And not just ethnic groups. When we say, Asian American, a lot of people instantly think East Asian American. China, Japan, and Korea are seen as the big three. Even though theres little Bangladesh, or the Nepalese immigrant population, but no one pays them as much attention as the big three.  A lot of it has to do with the gaze of other people. We know there are significant differences between us. But others dont see it, and they dont care. Theyll see us as Asian. It doesnt matter where youre from. Is awareness enough to alleviate tensions between East Asian groups? Awareness can lead to some of those issues being resolved, but you definitely need to go a step further. Japan, to this day, still hasnt admitted any type of wrongdoing in World War Two, and thats something that contributes significantly to the tensions between the Chinese and Japanese. In elementary school, we grew up watching propaganda films of World War Two, and they only referred to Japanese people as a racial slur. Awareness is a step in the right direction, but in order to truly ease tensions between Asian nations, you have to go a step further.

Jonah Shin 22 Jonah Shin `22 grew up in a majority white community in Washington, with a similar racial breakdown to Grinnell. With the rise of overt AAPI discrimination, he hopes to hold Grinnell to a higher standard than the typical rural mentalities in his hometown. Note: Interview was conducted by email. The S&B: What kind of environment did you grow up in? Shin: I struggled a lot between my Asian identity and my American identity. This struggle is what being Asian American has always meant to me; I think most Asian Americans (and other mixed races!) go through the exact same struggle at some point in their life, particularly if they grew up in a white community like I did. Being Asian American is acting a certain way in front around your Asian friends and then acting differently around your white friends. Sometimes it got to the point where I made self-deprecating racist jokes around my white friends because it was amusing to them (I no longer do that!). I do know a few Asian Americans who grew up in Asia and thus have no struggle with their Asian identity at all; I myself have always been envious of them. How do you navigate the line between being discriminated against, while at the same time being a model minority? My parents always taught me that being a model minority is how to beat discrimination because thats what their parents taught them. I think the issue is a little deeper than that, but through my childhood, I tried to live by this philosophy. White people cant make fun of me if Im better than them. What I came to realize though is that people didnt really care about model minorities. When I was working at my old factory job a few summers ago, my coworkers would still poke fun at my race no matter what. If I beat them in a footrace, they would say its because Im Asian; if I solved a math problem quickly in my head, they would say its because Im Asian. Everything I did was because I was Asian, even if it didnt make any sense. It sucked. Nowadays, I dont really try to maintain any model minority facade because of this reason. What does it mean to stand in solidarity with the AAPI community? What does a community of support look like to you? To me, solidarity is going against the stereotypes. A community of AAPI support is not being docile or passive about Asian American discrimination. More importantly, solidarity is speaking up. I think many AAPI-related microaggressions are exchanged everyday everywhere, and to me, standing in solidarity with AAPI means actually speaking up against these microaggressions. I have personally felt so relieved (most of the times) when somebody points out a microaggression that makes me uncomfortable. How do you think of your identity now that youre at Grinnell? The Grinnell student body is diverse. That alone has made a huge difference compared to the environments I found myself before college. At Grinnell, I found the spaces where I feel comfortable, and the spaces where I dont feel comfortable. Im glad that the Grinnell community has given me that opportunity to explore where I want to be. I found myself surrounded by other Asian Americans like me. Around other Asian Americans, I dont feel like I have to act a certain way (mostly). This is vastly different from my high school/hometown experience. I hope this security can persist throughout my life no matter where I choose to live.
By Shabana Gupta

guptasha@grinnell.edu

Of the nine professors in the psychology department, nearly half are leaving or retiring at the conclusion of this academic year. Psychology students and Student Educational Policy Committee (SEPC) members hope the hiring of three new professors will be an opportunity to create a more diverse, less white department and curriculum.

Professors Janet Gibson, Laura Sinnet, Emma Kelty-Stephen and Damian Kelty-Stephen are finishing up their last terms at Grinnell. Three new professors, who will be publicly announced after the school year ends, will teach starting in the fall.

Professor Gibson has been a Grinnell professor for just under 32 years, focusing on cognitive psychology and humor. In the summer, Gibson will move to Florida, COVID-permitting. She has family there and will live in The Villages, Florida, which isa retirement city with many other retired professors from around the country. The Villages is an active community for people over 55 years where Gibson plans to write, paint and bowl.

Currently, Gibson is in the process of packing up her office and separating out items that the new professors could find useful. Most of her advisees have graduated or picked new advisers, but she helped all of them through a final pre-registration. Her Grinnell email will still be active, and she expects that former students will contact her because that is what former students do.

There are connections that go on for years because they [former students] have a question or they want to link up with a prof from 5 years ago, Gibson said.

Andrew Jopeck 22 is one of Gibsons advisees. He has known since before leaving campus last March that Gibson was planning to retire. I had crossed my fingers [that she wouldnt retire,] but yeah. Thats something you have to be ready for with professors that are near retiring age. Gibson has been his advisor all 3 years at Grinnell, starting during his first-year tutorial, the Psychology of Humor.

Aru Fatehpuria 21 of the Psychology SEPC said that she expects a cultural shift. A lot of the professors who are here have been here for such a long time  The professors that come here are going to be very different.

The Psychology Department conducted the the selection process by inviting students and faculty to share their opinions and conducting interview the four final applicants.

Before selecting the new faculty, the SEPC joined faculty and students to attend the final applicants research presentations. Students and professors gave their opinions about the applicant and their research in a Google form.

The SEPC students then had hour-long interviews with each applicant about their research, philosophy of teaching, what changes they would make. SEPC member Philip Le 22 said that he was looking specifically for ways in which the applicants addressed values of diversity and inclusion in their mindsets and the way they plan to lead courses.

At present, the psychology department faculty are all white. Le said that multiple psychology majors over the years have told the SEPC about uncomfortable situations caused by a white dominated space.

Psychology students over the years suggested that studies and courses could benefit from more cultural as well as racial diversity, Le said. The dominant theories and norms in psychology were based on WEIRD (Western Educated Industrialized Rich Democratic) populations. Fatehpuria said that she expects the new professors to teach their courses using research that includes underrepresented populations.

Le said that he thinks the new professors will be a good change. I think its going to give the department a fresh air. These applicants are young, theyre coming from various backgrounds. That will help the students a lot.

Two of the newly introduced classes are the Psychology of Gender and Multicultural Psychology.

Fatehpuria said she has high regard of the incoming professors, especially when it comes to their focus on diverse populations. She paraphrased one of the professors, saying her thinking framework changed from We need to be careful about how we generalize [the study] to we need to be careful about how we generalize psychology. She said that one of the new professors wants to reframe how students look at the discipline of psychology and broadly see the limitations of psychology as a whole.

Jopeck said he was concerned when he learned that four of the nine professors in the Psychology Department were leaving. He specifically said losing both Research Methods professors, a core class for the psychology major, caused some worry.

When Professor Ralston sent out an email recently that introduced the three incoming professors to the psychology students, Jopeck said that gained confidence in the new arrivals.

Its always good to see new professors, especially younger ones, Jopeck said, pointing out that the job market for new professors is wanting. Jopeck still has some apprehension, though. It takes time for a new professor to get used to a new college, new student body, new culture and all that.

Of the new professors Fatehpuria said, Theyre focused on hands-on research and class discussions where you can talk about your ideas and interpretations of the research, itll be a really rewarding and collaborate classroom environment.

She also said that it was easy to see how passionate the incoming professors were about social justice and their research.

After the interviews, the whole SEPC was just like, Wow, theyre so awesome, Fatehpuria said.

Editors Note: A previous version of this article stated that the SEPC led the hiring process. This has been changed to reflect the while the SEPC was involved, the department led the hiring process and the SEPC was involved in a later stage of it. Paragraphs have also been rearranged, as the previous arrangement incorrectly implied that specific professors were involved in students negative experiences. The S&B regrets this error. 5/4/21, 8:47 a.m..
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The Rev. Salvatore Cordileone did not single out any Catholics in his latest letter calling for Holy Communion to be withheld from public figures who support abortion rights.

But the 17-page missive from the archbishop of San Francisco may have important implications for one of the archdiocese's most famous parishioners: House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

Pelosi, a California Democrat and high-profile Catholic, has long supported women's right to access abortion care - and, for nearly as long, she has come under fire from those who say her views contradict the teachings of the church, which considers abortion a grave sin.

Even though Cordileone, among the country's most conservative Catholic leaders, did not mention Pelosi by name, his letter implies that figures such as she should be denied Communion, the holiest of the religion's sacraments. If an "erring Catholic" continues supporting abortion rights, even after conversations with church officials, a pastor's "only recourse" is to temporarily exclude them from the sacrament, Cordileone wrote.

"This is a bitter medicine, but the gravity of the evil of abortion can sometimes warrant it," he added.

Cordileone's letter is the latest entry in an evolving debate about how Catholic leaders should handle politicians whose stances - particularly on abortion - do not jibe with the church's doctrine. And the controversy has intensified since the election of the nation's second Catholic president, who some say should also be denied Communion.

The archbishop acknowledged the polarizing political dynamic, writing in an addendum that he intentionally waited to publish his thoughts until after the 2020 election year to avoid "confusion among those who would misperceive this as 'politicizing' the issue."

"Regardless of which political party is in power at a given moment, we all need to review some basic truths and moral principles," Cordileone wrote.

Pelosi's office did not respond to a request for comment, and representatives for the archdiocese did not respond to questions about whether Cordileone thinks Pelosi specifically should be barred from Communion.

The letter - titled "Before I Formed You in the Womb I Knew You" and released Saturday - comes in the run-up to a June gathering of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, where church leaders will vote on whether to draft a document on the Communion issue.

There have been conflicting reports about the specific subject of the document, and a spokeswoman for the group declined to discuss its potential contents, telling The Washington Post last week that it was still premature.

The USCCB is influential, but it has no authority over bishops; only the Vatican does. Canon law puts Catholics under the direction of their local bishop, and they - along with individual priests - have varying policies about how to deal with politicians who support abortion rights. Some have called on priests to deny Communion to President Joe Biden, who attends Mass regularly. Both received Communion at the installation Mass for Pope Francis in 2013, which some Catholics considered an affront.

On the campaign trail in 2019, Biden was reportedly prevented from receiving the Eucharist at a South Carolina church because of his stance on abortion. Lately, though, Catholic leaders in the District of Columbia and Delaware have said they will not deny the president Communion.

In January, Pelosi appeared on Hillary Clinton's podcast and criticized antiabortion supporters of former president Donald Trump for being "willing to sell the whole democracy down the river for that one issue." It gives her "great grief as a Catholic," she added.

Those statements earned a direct response from Cordileone, who said that "Nancy Pelosi does not speak for the Catholic Church" and that "she also speaks in direct contradiction to a fundamental human right that Catholic teaching has consistently championed for 2,000 years."

Several years earlier, in 2013, Cardinal Raymond Burke, then-head of the Vatican's highest court, used similar language in issuing a public rebuke of Pelosi. She should be denied Communion, Burke said, because she "persists in a grave sin - cooperating with the crime of procured abortion - and still professes to be a devout Catholic."

Pelosi and Biden are far from the only politicians to receive such rebukes.

During Sen. John Kerry's 2004 bid for the Democratic presidential nomination, Burke, the archbishop of St. Louis at the time, forbade the Catholic candidate from taking Communion while campaigning in the area. Former congressman Patrick Kennedy, D-R.I., Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Ill., and others have faced similar fates or threats for their stances on abortion.

In response to a directive from the Diocese of Springfield barring top Illinois state lawmakers from Communion, the Rev. Stan Chu Ilo, a Catholic studies professor at DePaul University, said such measures were "ill-advised" and "unhelpful."

"Contemporary Catholicism has long left behind the era when church officials used draconian and punitive measures and threats of hellfire to compel the minds and hearts of Catholics," he wrote in the Chicago Tribune.

In his letter on Saturday, Cordileone argued that allowing people who publicly advocate for abortion rights to continue receiving Communion could influence others "to do evil" and could create the perception that the church's views on abortion are not deeply held.

"Our responsibility to the rest of the Catholic community is to assure them that the Church of Jesus Christ does take most seriously her mission to care for 'the least of these,' as Our Lord has commanded us, and to correct Catholics who erroneously, and sometimes stubbornly, promote abortion," Cordileone wrote.

Pelosi has in the past acknowledged rifts with the Catholic Church, particularly on abortion and stem cell research. In a 2008 interview, she said her faith has had a profound effect on her life and her worldview.

"It informs my decision-making, my value system and my sense of responsibility to the community," Pelosi told C-SPAN. "And it is a joy in my life."

The interviewer, Brian Lamb, asked Pelosi about her support of abortion access and receiving Communion.

"Does the church give you any difficulties?" he queried.

"Not really," Pelosi replied. "But I think some of it is regional. It depends on the bishop in a certain region. Fortunately, for me it has not - Communion has not been withheld and I'm a regular communicant, so that would be a severe blow to me if that were the case."

- - -

The Washington Post's Michelle Boorstein contributed to this report.
MBABANE - The Ludzidzini Royal Council will today meet over the unending dispute among members of the royal family at Macetjeni.

The dispute is between a faction (children) of Inkhosikati LaFakudze and LaNyawo, who were both married to the late Prince Maguga along with LaMyeni. The late Prince Maguga was a senior member of the royal family, who became a double chief of Macetjeni and KaMkhweli after the eviction of the chiefs Mliba Fakudze and Mtfuso Dlamini. The meeting was confirmed by acting Ludzidzini Governor, Chief Lusendvo Fakudze in an interview yesterday. Fakudze was asked what the council intended to do in order to avoid bloodshed between the factions of Inkhosikati LaNyawo and LaFakudze. Some residents of the area believe that the dispute started after Inkhosikati LaNyawos son, Prince Mshengu, was installed the new chief of the area after the death of Prince Maguga.

Residents

However, some residents said they expected that LaFakudzes son, Prince Mphiwa, would become the next chief of Macetjeni. The names of the residents have been withheld as they fear being attacked or victimised. To our surprise, Labadzala installed Prince Mshengu stating that his mother had thick blood. This is exactly what started the family war, claimed one of the residents. The residents further mentioned that Inkhosikati LaNyawo had no other home except Macetjeni (the main home). LaFakudzes children started to persecute LaNyawos children. They stalled all projects and construction. LaNyawo was physically attacked in her house and cattle byre logs were burnt down, said the residents.

The residents mentioned that the matter was reported to Labadzala, where LaFakudzes faction forwarded evidence why they believed Macetjeni belonged to them. They mentioned that an inspection-in-loco was conducted by the Ludzidzini Council during the course of the deliberations. The verdict is still pending. However, LaNyawo fell sick and eventually died. An emissary was sent to the family of LaNyawo that the King had said she should be buried at KaMkhweli. Princess Tsandzile verified the facts and it turned out that it was a conspiracy by LaFakudzes faction. LaNyawo was finally buried at Macetjeni, the residents alleged. The residents also mentioned that the situation worsened after Prince Mshengu erected his royal kraal on the fields which were allegedly used by his mother (LaNyawo).




MBABANE  Despite having set aside E200 million for the purchase of COVID-19 vaccines, Eswatini has not made any payment as yet.

This is according to the Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Dr Simon Zwane. Dr Zwane said the African Union and the manufacturing companies had not as yet invoiced the country. The PSs statement was confirmed by the Minister of Finance Neal Rijkenberg who said the E200 million was available. Rijkenberg said the country would start using the E200 million budget once government had finalised the contract for the supply through the African Union. It is in this years budget and will be utilised when the need arises, he said.

Meanwhile, the country initially had the 32 000 doses which were donated by the Government of India and 12 000 from the COVAX Facility. Interestingly though, according to statistics released on a daily basis by the Ministry of Health, the vaccination rate is now at 35 227. The E200 million which was announced by the Minister of Health as being available is meant to purchase some of the vaccines from COVAX through the African Union (AU).

According to a report carried by Reuters, African countries will pay between US$3 (E45) and US$10 (E135) per vaccine dose to access 270 million COVID-19 shots from AU. Meanwhile, according to a report carried by BBC News, the COVAX initiative has so far delivered 18 million vaccine doses to 41 African countries, according to the (WHO). However, it was reported that WHO stated that countries like Rwanda, Senegal, Ghana, Togo, Tunisia, Eswatini, and Botswana had already exhausted their initial supplies from COVAX and would need to wait until early May to mid June for more. Meanwhile, the Minister of Health, Lizzie Nkosi, has stated that Eswatini is a participant of the COVAX Facility through which the country will receive COVID-19 vaccine doses in phases to cover 20 per cent of the countrys population.

She said of this 20 per cent, 108 000 would be the AstraZeneca vaccine and the rest would be split across the COVID-19 vaccine candidates listed for emergency use. The doses from COVAX are part of other COVID-19 vaccines that will be used to inoculate the population to attain herd immunity, she said in a statement last month. The minister said the next delivery from COVAX was expected this month, stating that the exact expected delivery date would be communicated to Eswatini closer to the date. She said they had not received any communication from COVAX to inform of a delay for the planned May 2021 delivery of the AstraZeneca Vaccine.

However, it is worth noting that the Republic of India has recently placed an embargo on exporting of COVID-19 vaccines as they seek to handle the pandemic within the country first.
People often ask me if I grew up here. Sometimes they outright assume that I did. The city that they know that Im a native of changes. Could be San Francisco, Oakland or Berkeley. And even though I was born in Stanford Hospital and lived as a baby in East Palo Alto, I grew up back east. I lived in Chicago, Boston, Alabama and Indianapolis, like one does.

I didnt move to the Bay Area until I was 24 years old in 1997. And yet, in many respects I did a lot of growing up here. I moved here for the San Francisco comedy scene, lived in Oakland and had a day job in Berkeley, across the street from Cals campus. So I saw a bunch of different versions of The Bay.

I always had a pretty random social circle. Ne'er-do-wells, artists, comics, academics, not-sure-yets, young people on the verge of adulthood and people fully in the midst of a midlife crisis. People of all races, sexualities and, Im guessing, genders. But it was the late 90s, and I wasnt in that conversation yet. I have always been aware of how much that all formed me as a person, even though I only moved here to be formed as a stand-up comic.

All of that is why I felt so much pressure to make sure I represented The Bay well in the premiere episode of season six of my CNN docuseries, United Shades of America. And as much as showing off The Bay sounds like a fun assignment, it wasnt this time. I would have loved it if I could have just taken the film crew around The Bay, showing off my favorite spots like Bakesale Bettys, A Great Good Place For Books, Red Bay Coffee, Ippudo, I just want to keep listing places! But the times being what they are (and with me being the person I am), thats just not possible now.

We filmed this episode in October of last year. The COVID-19 numbers were still going up rapidly. There was no vaccine yet. It was months after the murder of George Floyd by then-Minneapolis police officer, Derek Chauvin. At the time of George Floyds murder, my kids were still in the relatively early days of distance learning, a logistical and educational nightmare for all parties involved. And even though, as a family, we were terrified of getting COVID-19 and following all of the good Doctor Faucis advice, my wife Melisa decided that as a family we had to be a part of a protest. We found one that was designed specifically for families in Oakland.

AUNDRE LARROW, CNN

But by the time I was headed out to film the show, my kids were confused as to why they couldnt go to in person school down the street, but I had to travel all over the country. By October, things still felt hectic in America. And there was no hint that Chauvin would eventually be convicted on all charges. After the police killings last year of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Rayshard Brooks and many others, it felt like the United States was having a reckoning with policing. But it wasnt our first one.

Throughout this countrys history there have been times when even our political leaders have acknowledged that something was wrong with policing. In 1967, Lyndon Johnsons administration formed the Kerner Commission to investigate why Black Americans were somewhat regularly staging uprisings (the Kerner Commission used the word riots). The overwhelming white and male group studied the issue and arrived at the same conclusion that Black folks knew on a cellular level: Our nation is moving toward two societies, one black, one white  separate and unequal.

While it would be easy to say that things havent changed since then, it is more true to say that things have changed  for the worse. And they got really bad because of the pandemic. As President Joe Biden pointed out during his first address to the nation, 650 people increased their wealth by more than $1 trillion during this pandemic. And they're now worth more than $4 trillion. And a lot of that profit came from tech billionaires, big box store billionaires and factory farm billionaires who were not paying a living wage to their employees, a large percentage of whom are Black and Latinx.

And on top of that, COVID-19 hit the Black, Latinx and Indigenous communities harder than white communities. If only this country had learned from the findings of the 1967 Kerner Commission. It pointed much of the responsibility of Americas divide at policing, but President Lyndon Johnson rejected all the findings. And then a few years later, the War on Drugs began under the Nixon administration, which intentionally targeted Black, Latinx and Indigenous people. And Americas prison population skyrocketed like the stock market in 2020. And then we seem to repeat the cycle ...

Periodically, the United States asks itself what is wrong with policing. The Black community and others point out the systemic racism embedded in policing. Then, our country decides that the solution is to give police more money, more power and sometimes more military grade equipment. And then, of course, the countrys police departments prove that overall, they cant be trusted with that money, power and equipment by continually over-policing and under-protecting our most vulnerable populations.

CNN

The Bay Area, and the surrounding counties, are no different in that equation. But one thing that does separate us is that the conversation about Defund the Police," one that is new to many people around the country, is not new to us. At least, it isnt new if you hang out with the people that I do.

Sundays episode features conversations with some of my favorite Bay Area voices, like Pastor Michael McBride of The Way Christian Center in Berkeley; UC Berkeley African American studies professor Dr. Nikki Jones; Alicia Garza of the Black Futures Lab; former San Francisco Chronicle and current Atlanta Journal-Constitution journalist Otis Taylor Jr.; BART Supervisor Lateefah Simon; Wanda Johnson, the mother of Oscar Grant, and Cephus Uncle Bobby X Johnson and Beatrice X Johnson; artist Favianna Rodriguez; co-founder of the Anti Police-Terror Project Cat Brooks and many more. Alicia even helped organize a sit-down with Mayor London Breed, who has proposed initiatives to redistribute some police funding in her childhood neighborhood of the Western Addition. You can see why it had to be an extended episode.

If you happen to be a Bay Area person who is new to the conversation around the concept of defunding the police, tune in. Because if there is any place in the country that consistently wrestles with the role of policing, it is here.

The issue dates back to the Black Panthers activism in Oakland, and has continued for decades since, ranging from the killing of Oscar Grant by BART officer Johannes Mehserle to the creation of Black Lives Matter in 2013 by Alicia Garza and activists Opal Tometi and Patrisse Khan-Cullors-Brignac, to the San Francisco police killing of Mario Woods (2015) and Alex Nieto (2016), to the killing of Mario Gonzalez by the Alameda police, and the Black Organizing Project getting the the Oakland Unified School District police force kicked out of the Oakland Unified School District.

The Bay Area is always leading the conversation about what to do about policing in our Black, Indigenous, Latinx, Asian and Pacific Islander communities. I sincerely hope this episode is another step forward in that conversation at home and around the country.

I owe it to the place that finished raising me.

W. Kamau Bell is a stand-up comedian and the host and executive producer of the Emmy Award-winning CNN docuseries "United Shades of America with W. Kamau Bell." The sixth season premiered on May 2, 2021, and new episodes air every Sunday at 7 p.m.
May 8, 10:06 p.m. Ending days of uncertainty, China's Long March 5B rocket has re-entered Earth's atmosphere, the South China Morning Post reported, citing the China Manned Space Engineering Office.

Much of the rocket was incinerated upon re-entry, while the remaining debris plunged into the Indian Ocean near the Maldives.

May 3, 1:14 p.m. Last week's launch of the Chinese Long March 5B rocket was a success, for the most part.

The module is on its way to forming the first of 11 parts of the Chinese "Tianhe," or Heavenly Harmony, space station  but the booster and tanks that launched the rocket are not where they're supposed to be.

The boosters were supposed to fall to earth in a planned zone over the ocean, but inadvertently flew into the Earth's orbit.

What goes up must come down, and this means the gigantic "core stage" (a term for the "backbone" of a rocket, including tanks and thrusters)  measuring 98 feet long and 16 feet wide  is now spinning out of control and poised to perform an uncontrolled reentry somewhere on Earth any day now, reports SpaceNews.

The event will mark one of the biggest human-made objects to perform an uncontrolled reentry in the history of space travel.

It's not yet known why the launcher didn't detach earlier over the ocean as planned, but a similar mistake happened to a Chinese rocket last year. That launcher reportedly finally fell into the Atlantic Ocean and onto West Africa, with debris possibly causing damage to villages in Cote dIvoire. No casualties were reported.

The core stage, which includes four side boosters, has a mass of around 21 tons.

Jonathan McDowell, Astronomer at the Center for Astrophysics, told SpaceNews that this is the fourth biggest ever incident of unplanned reentry of equipment.

The Long March 5B core stage is seven times more massive than the Falcon 9 second stage that caused a lot of press attention a few weeks ago when it reentered above Seattle and dumped a couple of pressure tanks on Washington state, McDowell told the publication.

I think by current standards its unacceptable to let it reenter uncontrolled. Since 1990 nothing over 10 tons has been deliberately left in orbit to reenter uncontrolled, he added.

The gigantic core stage, comparable in height to a 10-story building, may partially burn up on reentry, and it's highly likely that debris from the booster will fall into the ocean or onto uninhabited areas. This leaves a small but real chance that the falling debris could threaten human lives and property.

The tanks and thrusters are currently spinning around the Earth at a rate of more than 4.4 miles per second, and are being monitored by a U.S. military radar, SpaceNews reports. The debris is flashing periodically, suggesting its tumbling and out of control. Surviving objects will fall vertically after deceleration and travel at terminal velocity, according to the publication.

The largest and most famous similar incident occurred in 1979 during the reentry of NASAs 76-ton Skylab, which scattered debris across the Indian Ocean and Western Australia.

The Long March 5B boosters orbital inclination of 41.5 degrees means the rocket body passes a little farther north than New York and as far south as New Zealand, so its reentry could occur anywhere around the globe between these latitudes.

A night time reentry, though, could make for spectacular viewing, as with a recent reentry of SpaceX's Falcon 9 second stage, which was supposed to burn up over the Pacific Ocean but made an uncontrolled reentry over the Pacific Northwest. That incident produced a spectacular light show and dropped a pressure tank onto a farmers field, thankfully with no casualties.
Sharon, PA (16146)

Today

Rain showers this morning with numerous thunderstorms developing during the afternoon hours. High 82F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%. Rainfall may reach one inch..

Tonight

Thunderstorms this evening followed by occasional showers overnight. Low 67F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%.
(BPT) - A fresh new color scheme, the sparkle of quartz and a chic tile layout can transform your bath from drab to fab. But when we renovate,
MANZINI  Some members of Bunye Betfu Buhle Betfu Savings Cooperative had money amounting to E511 000, erroneously deposited into their bank accounts.

Bunye Betfu is one of the largest savings and credit cooperative societies (SACCO) in the country and its value is estimated to be more than E250 million and with more than 6 000 members. The membership consists of civil servants and employees of a few government parastatals (majority being civil servants). According to impeccable sources, the money was sent to the various members accounts without a signed instrument and without the knowledge of the treasurer, who is supposed to be a custodian of all the funds.

Accounts

The impeccable sources claimed that the said over E0.5 million was credited to different members who held accounts with one bank known to this publication. The money was said to have been deposited to the members accounts last September. It was claimed by the sources that what was shocking to them was that all the members who benefitted from the transfer of money had not applied for loans from the fund. It was gathered that this resulted in their bank accounts being frozen by the bank while trying to recover those monies for Bunye Betfu. The aggrieved members alleged that there was malpractice and incompetence in the transaction by those responsible and want action to be taken, which they supposed the Board Chairperson, Fortunate Lukhele, was reluctant to initiate.

No action or even a corrective measure was ever taken by the employer against this negligence and it is shocking. No one was ever suspended so that this can be properly investigated, an aggrieved member said. In light of these allegations, the Board chairperson admitted that there was an error that occurred. Lukhele said on the day the payments were made, there had been complaints that those who had filed requests for loans had not been paid. She said following this, an enquiry was made at the bank where it was discovered that there were two lists of members who had to be paid. In one list, she claimed, the members were paid while in another, five had not received their money.

Payments

The second list with five unpaid people was then authorised and they were paid; however, on Monday (a day after the payments), the accountant discovered that non-deserving members had been awarded money, Lukhele said.
By Doug Leier This is the time of year when North Dakota Game and Fish Department game wardens, biologists and other staff across the state handle an influx of calls about young animals. From seemingly abandoned deer fawns, to birds that fell from a nest, to a mother duck trying to lead her brood across...
Actress Raashii Khanna is currently shooting for her upcoming Telugu film "Thank You" in Milan. This is the first time the actress shoots using sync-sound technology and she is excited.

A sync-sound set-up is one where the sound of the film recorded during a shot makes it to the final edit and doesn't have to be dubbed separately.

"This is the first time I am shooting for a Telugu film that will be shot with this technique. People will hear my real voice and not a dubbed voice. It's not easy to be shooting in such a set-up. I am nervous and excited because for the first time the audience will hear my voice over my face," said Raashii.

"Thank You" co-stars Naga Chaitanya Akkineni and is director Vikram Kumar.

Raashii's upcoming projects include "Tughlaq Durbar", "Aranmanai 3", "Methavi" and "Bhramam". She also awaits the streaming of her digital debut directed by Raj and DK and starring Shahid Kapoor and Vijay Sethupathi.

Text: IANS

Images: Raashi on Instagram
The Candian government agency found that a "drug substance" needed to become the final J&J vaccine was made at the Emergent Biosolutions plant in Baltimore, Maryland, the globalnews.ca reported.

Toronto, May 3 (IANS) Health Canada is set to pause the first batch of 300,000 Johnson & Johnson Covid-19 jabs after learning that a part of the vaccine was made in the same US plant where millions of doses were spoiled, the media reported.

"The drug substance is the active ingredient that undergoes further processing before becoming the final product (i.e., the vaccine). The final Janssen vaccines were manufactured at a different site located outside of the US," the agency was quoted as saying in a statement.

The plant has been in news for several violations, including cleaning and sterilisation as well as the potential for cross-contamination. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has since ordered the facility to stop making more J&J vaccines until it addresses the violations and manufacturing errors, which resulted in 15 millions of those doses being destroyed, the report said.

Health Canada stated that it was working with Janssen and the FDA to assess the vaccines and they would only be released once they were deemed to be safe.

The agency also maintained confidence that the 1.5 million AstraZeneca vaccines also delivered to Canada from that plant in late March were still safe and met "quality specifications", the report said.

"Since issuing our statement [on AstraZeneca], Health Canada has learned that a drug substance produced at the Emergent site was used in the manufacturing of the initial Janssen vaccines received on April 28 and intended for use in Canada," read the statement.

--IANS

rvt/ksk/
The official said that in the last 24 hours, another 6,469 new cases of Covid-19 were registered, bringing the total to 1,204,755, of which 1,136,816 have recovered, the Xinhua news agency reported.

Santiago, May 2 (IANS) Chile has surpassed 1.2 million cases of Covid-19, Chilean Health Minister Enrique Paris announced on Saturday.

Additionally, another 104 deaths from the disease were reported in the last day, bringing the total to 26,457.

Paris stated that the Magallanes region in the southern part of the country has seen a 5 per cent increase in cases in the last seven days.

In March and April, Chile experienced the peak of infection, and it is currently reporting between 5,000 and 7,000 daily cases.

The Chilean government on Thursday lifted the quarantine in 10 communes in the Santiago Metropolitan Region, with shopping areas and restaurants allowed to reopen, though the quarantine will be reinstated on the weekends.

The health ministry reported on Monday that it would keep the nation's borders closed for the whole month of May after enacting this measure on April 5.

--IANS

int/rs
Lucknow, May 3 (IANS) The Yogi Adityanath government has extended the closure in Uttar Pradesh up to May 6.

The closure which began on Friday night, was earlier to end on Tuesday morning.

The government spokesman said that during this closure, all shops and markets will remain closed but outlets selling essential items like vegetables, milk and dairy products will remain open.
MBABANE  Angikwati loku.

These were the words of senior member of the royal family, Prince Masitsela, when asked about the latest damning reports related to the passing on of Zulu Queen, Princess Mantfombi. The prince said he was shocked about the developments in the Zulu royal household, following the death of his sister. In particular, this publication wanted to ascertain his feelings following reports by South African media that a fight over succession of the late Zulu King Goodwill Zwelithini had started barely a week after the passing on of Queen Regent Mantfombi.

According to reports by IOL, A South African publication, an application has allegedly been filed at the Pietermaritzburg High Court by the first wife, Queen Sibongile Dlamini, also known as MaDlamini, who was married in a civil rites marriage. She is challenging the late Kings will and his traditional marriage to all his other wives. The senior prince (Masitsela) was also asked to shed light on claims that the late queen was allegedly poisoned. When asked if they were going to intervene in the matter, the prince said the elders were going to deliberate on it.

He also mentioned that plans were underway to send a delegation to send off the departed queen in the neighbouring country. A portion of us (the royal family) will be sent to the Zulu nation in South Africa to take part in the sending off of our sister, said the prince. According to our sister publication, the Times SUNDAY, Prince Masitsela described the late queen regent as a person who was brought up in a respectful manner.

The prince said this during an interview with Ukhozi FM.

Prince Masitsela said the death of Queen Mantfombi was tragic because it happened soon after King Zwelithinis demise and at a time when she had been appointed to the role of queen regent. Queen Mantfombi held the highest status among King Zwelithinis wives because of her birthright - she was born from a royal family. Her father was King Sobhuza ii and she was also a sister to King Mswati III, the current King of Eswatini.

Queen Mantfombi was appointed as queen regent after King Zwelithini passed on March 12, 2021.

Faction

IOL alleges that in a statement issued through a public relations company, a royal faction loyal to MaDlamini said it had concerns with the validity of all the kings traditional marriages, which came after a civil one, hence going to court. Worth noting is that the late Queen Mantfombi and Queen Zola Mafu, who are both emaSwati by birth, were married traditionally to the late Zulu King. The late queen regent got married to the king in 1973 while Mafu got married to him in 2014. We wish to confirm that there are two pending matters before the courts in relation to the estate of His Majesty, the late King Goodwill Zwelithini of the Zulu nation. it was reported in the statement published by IOL.
In a meeting with the Indian Ambassador Pranay Kumar Verma earlier this week in Hanoi, the deputy foreign minister of Vietnam pledged to provide medical support in the form of oxygen, medicines and drugs. The Indian ambassador and Vietnamese Deputy Foreign Minister Nguyen Quoc Dung also discussed India's engagement with ASEAN countries, particularly in the maritime domain.

The Vietnamese foreign office tweeted: "DFM #NguyenQuocDung received Mr Pranay Kumar Verma, #India Ambassador to #VietNam, expressed sympathy for the difficulties & damages caused by the #Covid19 in India. The DFM also expressed his belief that India will soon overcome this difficult & challenging time."

A number of ASEAN countries are providing help to India. Supplies of cryogenic tanks as well as oxygen-related medical equipment arrived in India from Thailand on Saturday. Bangkok sent 15 oxygen concentrators while the Indian community in Thailand contributed another 15 oxygen concentrators.

Thanking Thailand, External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar said: "Discussed the Covid-19 challenge and international cooperation with Thai DPM and FM Don Pramudwinai. Appreciated the supplies of cryogenic tanks and other oxygen-related equipment. Confident that we can continue to count on our partnership with Thailand."

Singapore too had provided oxygen cylinders to India. It sent the cylinders through two air force planes after a small ceremony at the Paya Lebar Air Base earlier this week. Singapore's Second Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Maliki Osman said: "The fighting spirit of the Indian people will prevail. We have witnessed India's immense capabilities in mobilising her people and resources when challenges arise. While our contribution is modest, we hope that it will bring comfort and relief to those in need and encourage those on the frontline in India, who are working tirelessly, to fight on".

Over the past few years, India is strengthening its relations with its eastern and south-eastern neighbours. Under its Act East Policy (AEP), it is not only improving diplomatic connectivity but also physical connectivity with countries like Myanmar and onwards. India is also trying to improve its economic and trade relations with the ASEAN block.

With Vietnam, India has a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, under which the two nations are cooperating in defence industries, the development sector as well as boosting trade and economy. India is also strengthening Vietnam's information technology sector. The two countries are closely cooperating over China-related strategic developments in the Indo-Pacific region as well.

(This content is being carried under an arrangement with indianarrative.com)

--indianarrative/
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  New York City officials said Monday that they believe blanket protection from the coronavirus (COVID-19) will not be achieved in the near future, and urged city residents to protect themselves by getting vaccinated.

During a morning press conference, Mayor Bill de Blasio and city health experts reacted to a Monday New York Times report that national experts believe the U.S. would never reach herd immunity, in which enough people had been inoculated form the virus.

I think for a long time weve all understood that COVID would become, if all continues at this pace, would become like the flu or other diseases that were used to seasonally, he said. Theres one game plan here, get vaccinated.

As of Monday, the mayor said 6,630,935 vaccine doses had been administered across the five boroughs.

Dr. Anthony Fauci, President Bidens top advisor on the pandemic, has been trying to get people to stop thinking about herd immunity, and more focused on vaccinating as many people as possible.

Fauci has said for over a month that its not entirely clear how many people would need to achieve immunity from the virus to reach the scientific definition of herd immunity. Hes speculated that the effort may mean a need for children to be vaccinated.

We dont really know what that magical point of herd immunity is, but we do know that if we get the overwhelming population vaccinated, were going to be in good shape, Fauci said during a March 18 Senate hearing. We ultimately would like to get and have to get children into that mix.

Previously, the doctor has said publicly that 70% to 85% of the population would need vaccinations or other immunity to the virus to get to the point of herd immunity.

Dr. Dave Chokshi, the commissioner of the citys Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, said Monday that new variants of the virus present a significant challenge to achieving the formal definition of herd immunity.

He urged people not to get bogged down in the medical definitions regarding immunity, and that it was still possible to achieve a level of local inoculation that would have significant benefits.

Were seeing that in New York City even today in terms of reducing infection, and, particularly, with decreasing severe disease that causes those hospitalizations and deaths, he said. The key to a joyful July and a safe summer is vaccination, and thats where were going to keep our square aim for the near-term and for the longer-term.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  New York state will lift its ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions on New York City later this month, Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced Monday.

The state, in coordination with New Jersey and Connecticut, will allow a major reopening of business and activity across the tri-state area on May 19, the governor said during a morning press briefing.

It is irrefutable, when you look at the numbers, that New Yorkers have made tremendous progress, Cuomo said. Its time to readjust the decision made on the science and on the data.

According to Cuomo, most capacity restrictions will end, including the occupancy limits on things like retail, food services, and gyms. Outdoor food and beverage curfews will also be lifted in New York, Cuomo said.

While max capacity will be allowed in restaurants, the six-feet distance mandates will remain in place. Events that require proof of vaccination or negative COVID tests dont need to mandate distancing, and restaurants do not need to adhere if there are physical barriers.

Businesses, like theaters, can decide to remain at limited capacity if they deem necessary. Additionally, the citys subway system will return to full 24-hour operation starting May 17.

Despite the resumed 24-hour service, Cuomo again raised concerns about a lack of safety on the subways.

Dont lie to me and dont play me as a fool, he said. Have you been on the subway? Because I have and I was scared.

Cuomos Monday announcement comes less than a week after Mayor Bill de Blasio announced his own July 1 reopening goal for the city.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  The NYPD is investigating a violent assault Sunday night in Midtown as a possible hate crime, amid a string of attacks against Asians across New York City.

Police said a female suspect, described only to be in her 50s, struck a 31-year-old Asian woman in the head with a hammer, while demanding the woman remove her COVID-19 mask, the New York Daily News reported.

On Staten Island, about 70 people gathered March 30 at Snug Harbor to honor the lives of those who have died recently amid a spike in hate crimes against people of Asian descent across the U.S.

The demonstration was held exactly two weeks after eight people were killed in Georgia  six of whom were of Asian descent  in a series of shootings at three spas in the Atlanta area.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  Juan Becerra kneeled to paint the base of a door jamb in his new, West Brighton coffee shop. He and business partner Rory McCarthy plan to open Northside Coffee on May 15. The fresh coat of paint is Stage 1 of recent improvements underway at 605 Forest Avenue.

Juan Beccera is co-owner of soon coming Northside Cafe in West Brighton. (Staten Island Advance/Pamela Silvestri)

If that address sounds familiar its because Fab Cup lived in the location prior. Long-time residents of the neighborhood knew the corner store years ago as the Claddagh Gift Shop. But for Becerra, the digs feel like home  he originally co-owned the cafe when it first launched in 2016.

And Staten Islanders might know Becerra from his other ventures. He has a stake in NLP, a 13-year old Rossville gym that focuses on high intensity training. And he co-owns Main Street Coffee, a three-year old cafe in Tottenville that uses Partner, a gourmet New York City roast.

But with the new gig, Northside, Becerra will feature Oslo brand of beans. It will be the only spot on Staten Island to offer the line.

I thought it was important for us to introduce a new roaster that no one on the Island is currently using. Its a high end quality micro-roaster and the coffee is delicious, said Becerra of the Williamsburg anchored beanery.

Other unique features of Northside will include its walk-up window, a convenience that will allow a handoff to guests who approach on Pelton Avenue.

With McCarthys experience managing a Manhattan coffee shop and Becerras history in establishing cafes in the borough, the pair pooled their collective experience to come up with a salubrious menu.

Were going to have an all new menu  pancakes, all different types of sandwiches and toast. The toasts are open faced  freshly mashed avocado dressed with arugula, fresh cracked pepper and salt. There will be vegan options, said Becerra.

Soon a mural will be plastered on one side of the dining room. The kitchen will run on all electric appliances. The footprint of the bathroom has been reduced to accommodate a door to be installed. That will give access to the yard. Also in the future: Becerra and McCarthy are applying for a liquor license so mimosas, Bellinis and perhaps Irish coffees, the latter that nods to its business past, will one day pair with brunch.

Northside Coffee is still hiring. To get in touch with Becerra, he can be reached directly at 917-922-8513.

Pamela Silvestri is Advance Food Editor. She can be reached at silvestri@siadvance.com.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  Last spring sisters Nuala and Aoife Bonner begged their mom, Holly, to help them host a lemonade stand at their West Brighton home during the height of the pandemic.

But with COVID numbers climbing, a traditional front lawn event just wasnt feasible. So thats when their mom suggested using Facebook Live and go virtual.

The girls were ecstatic and asked their mom to help them donate any money they collected to VISIONS/Services for the Blind & Visually Impaired, an organization thats been close to Hollys heart.

A LITTLE ABOUT HOLLY

Holly was declared legally blind after being treated with chemotherapy for an aggressive form of breast cancer in 2012. The ordeal required months of rehabilitation services that included both orientation and mobility and assistive technology training.

Holly, a 2017 Advance Woman of Achievement, says, The transition of going from a fully sighted person to someone who was legally blind was absolutely devastating.

Months later, a colleague at the New York State Commission for the Blind (NYSCB) advised her to contact VISIONS/Services for the Blind & Visually Impaired for additional support.

THIS YEARS EVENT

Nuala and Aoife have scheduled their 2nd Annual Lemonade Stand in support of VISIONS for Saturday, May 8 at 1 p.m. via Blind Motherhoods Facebook Page.

Lemonade prices are: $5 virtual cup, $15 virtual pitcher, $30 virtual half gallon, or $50 virtual gallon.

Online donations may be made beginning now via the VISIONS website by going to https://www.visionsvcb.org/donate/.

The Bonner family plans to adorn their front lawn with pink and yellow balloons and host the event outside, weather permitting.

Anyone wishing to drop off in-person cash or check donation can head to Bonners residence at 730 Bement Ave. in West Brighton. Masks and social distancing are required.

Checks should be made out to VISIONS/Services for the Blind & Visually Impaired.

A LITTLE ABOUT VISIONS  AND HOLLY

Founded in 1926, VISIONS is a 95-year old nonprofit vision rehabilitation and social service organization. Participants in VISIONS programs strive to use their full potential to overcome barriers to their success at home, college, community life and work life.

VISIONS is No. 1 in job placements of legally blind New Yorkers. The organization targets services for individuals who are legally blind and totally blind who are low-income, frail, multi-disabled and/or limited-English speaking. VISIONS serves people of all backgrounds, with culturally sensitive programs offered in 16 languages including American Sign Language (ASL).

All services are provided completely free of charge and can be scheduled in the blind participants home, at the 500 Greenwich Street headquarters in Lower Manhattan, at VISIONS at Selis Manor community and older adult center at 135 West 23rd Street.

Holly began collaborating with the organization in conjunction with her website, Blind Motherhood (www.blindmotherhood.com). In 2018, VISIONS recruited Holly to serve as its Staten Island borough coordinator. Bonner was tasked with formulating an advisory board of borough residents to help increase awareness of VISIONS services and to raise funds to support the organization.

TO BACKTRACK FOR A BIT

When COVID hit Staten Island in March of last year, Hollys husband, city Detective Joseph Bonner, was forced to leave the family in an effort to prevent the disease from impacting the family. As a cancer survivor, shes severely immuno-compromised and doctors placed Holly in the high risk category. For seven months, she was alone with daughters, Nuala, 7 and Aoife, 5, in the family home.

We only saw Joe from our front steps twice a day to pick up meals, she recalled. The girls had remote school and much of their schoolwork was inaccessible for me to access as a blind parent. As someone who is unable to drive given my vision loss, we had to rely on others to help drop off essential items and to keep our spirits up.

Holly credits her co-workers and VISIONS Executive Director, Nancy D. Miller, for aiding her family during those most difficult days.

My co-workers took the time to check in on our family. When I had questions about technology for the girls remote school, I had an entire department of assistive technology professionals I could reach out to. Getting a call, text, and the occasional VISIONS care package really made a difference. I am proud to say I am both an employee and a client of VISIONS.

SISTERS SUPPORT VISIONS

Hollys daughters also looked forward to interactions with their moms co-workers. As Mothers Day 2020 approached, the two sisters felt donating money to VISIONS would be the perfect present for their mom.

Usually, daddy takes us shopping to buy momma flowers and a cake, but he couldnt come near us because of the coronavirus said Nuala.

Aoife agreed, We like helping blind people because our mommy is blind. VISIONS helps mommy so we wanted to help them too. We were also really excited to have a lemonade stand that daddy could watch on his computer.

Last years event was streamed straight from the familys kitchen. The girls filled up mason jars of fresh lemonade, danced around in matching lemon dresses, and talked about what its like to have a blind mom.

Holly talked about VISIONS services within the borough, the impact COVID-19 had on the organization, and the importance of helping Staten Islands blind population. Together, the family raised more than $1,500 for the cause!

THIS YEAR BRINGS HAPPIER TIMES

Things are much brighter for the family this year.

Joe, now retired, is home. And with Mothers Day approaching, the family wants to make this holiday focused on VISIONS mission of helping others see what is possible.

For further information on Nuala & Aoifes 2nd Annual Lemonade Stand set for Saturday, May 8 at 1 p.m. or to request information about becoming a member of the VISIONS Staten Island Advisory Board contact Holly at hbonner@visionsvcb.org
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- A car crashed into a Dongan Hills utility pole Sunday afternoon, leaving the support leaning precariously toward the street.

The crash occurred at around 3:15 p.m. near the 1200 block of Richmond Road, but did not cause any injuries, said an official from the FDNYs press office.

Emergency radio transmissions indicated authorities requested Con Edison inspect the pole following the one-car crash; however, a spokeswoman for the company said the pole belongs to Verizon.

A car crashed into a Dongan Hills utility pole Sunday afternoon. (Staten Island Advance/Joseph Ostapiuk)x

A Verizon spokesperson said while the pole was damaged there was no service interruption experienced as a result of the crash.

This afternoon, an apparent vehicular accident near 1199 Richmond Road on Staten Island resulted in damage to a Verizon structure. There is no negative impact to service, and Verizon technicians are working with emergency personnel to repair the site, the Verizon spokesperson said.

The base of the pole was badly splintered and completely separated from the rest of the structure, which was leaning over Richmond Road Sunday afternoon.

The pole was cordoned off by authorities with caution tape.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Since the implementation of speed cameras in New York City, residents and politicians alike have questioned the programs motive -- is it for the safety of pedestrians and motorists or is it all about the money?

Enacted by Gov. Andrew Cuomo and implemented by the city Department of Transportation (DOT) under former Mayor Michael Bloomberg, the speed camera pilot program began in 2014.

Since then, the city has collected millions of dollars in revenue from the $50 fines issued to motorists driving 10 miles per hour or more above the speed limit in speed camera school zones across the five boroughs.

Just this week Mayor Bill de Blasio released his fiscal year 2022 (FY22) budget proposal, which includes $46 million for 360 additional speed cameras in FY21 and 600 additional speed cameras in FY22, which the city says will bring the total to 2,200 cameras across the five boroughs.

We understand more than ever the power of Vision Zero, and were doubling down on speed cameras around our schools. Thats worked. Thats kept children and families safe. Were going to be doing a lot more of that, de Blasio said.

Staten Island drivers have become well-acquainted with the boroughs speed cameras, having racked up millions of dollars in fines in recent years.

In the past few months alone, Staten Islands speed cameras have issued more than 90,000 violations, representing more than $4.5 million in fines for a program that some have argued is more focused on generating revenue than bolstering public safety.

Another question asked by residents and elected officials was submitted by Staten Islander Angelita to #fyiSI.

Angelita said, Id love to know where does all the money go from tickets issued by the speed cameras?

Speed camera located on Marsh Avenue near the Staten Island Mall. (Staten Island Advance/Erik Bascome)

$28 MILLION IN FINES ISSUED IN 43 DAYS

Between July 11, 2019 when the program took effect and August 2019, more than 500,000 violations, at $50 a piece, were issued, with the city raking in millions of dollars in revenue, according to city data.

When parsed down, this represents approximately 13,098.2 violations per day, 545.8 violations per hour, or 9.1 violations per minute.

At $50 per violation, the city has issued $28,161,050 in fines over the 43-day stretch, representing $654,908.14 per day, $27,287.84 per hour, $454.80 per minute, or $7.58 per second.

Brooklyn and Queens accounted for the vast majority of the violations issued, with 211,221 (37.5%) and 205,373 (36.46%), respectively.

Staten Island, with 33,648 violations issued over the 43-day span, accounted for 5.97% of the violations citywide.

WHERE DOES THE MONEY GO?

Money collected by the Department of Finance (DOF) -- the city agency charged with collecting fines  goes into the citys general fund which is behind the city budget.

De Blasio said its obvious that the money from enforcement efforts, like the speed cameras, gets rolled right back into the citys budget to fund enforcement efforts.

They mayor, in addition to the Department of Transportation, have continuously been criticized about the revenue collected and defended the citys efforts saying its never been about the money but about safety.

Opponents of the program view it as a money-grab by the city, more focused on generating revenue than improving safety, which they say could be done with other traffic-calming measures in school zones such as stop signs, speed bumps, lower speed limits and increased patrols by the NYPD in problematic areas.

The number of average weekly violations issued at new speed camera locations tends to decline rapidly in the weeks following installation, indicating that the cameras are effectively deterring drivers from speeding within those zones.

According to the report, the average number of weekly violations issued at new speed camera locations during the first week was approximately 455, as of summer 2019.

By the 18th week following installation, the average number of weekly violations issued at the location drastically dropped to 124, representing a 73% decrease in speeding.

Speed camera located the South Avenue and Travis Avenue. (Staten Island Advance/Erik Bascome)

SPEED CAMERA PROGRAM BEGAN WITH 20 SCHOOL ZONES

Meant to calm traffic and increase driver and pedestrian safety as part of Vision Zero, speed cameras were placed in 20 school zones with documented speeding issues across the five boroughs that would issue a $50 ticket to motorists going 10 miles or more above the speed limit.

Soon after the program was expanded to include 140 school zones. The pilot program was assessed after five years and the has dramatically expanded since.

New York Citys school zone speed camera program expired at the end of July 2018 after state lawmakers failed to reach a deal on extending the program before finishing their regular session.

Cuomo then signed an executive order declaring a state of emergency in New York City and halting the repeal of the bill, which temporarily suspended the sunset provisions in the legislation and gave the city the authority it needs to implement the program ahead of the school year.

2019 PROPOSAL WOULD REINSTATE, MORE THAN DOUBLE SPEED CAMERA PROGRAM

In January 2019, Cuomo unveiled a proposal to formally reinstate the speed camera program in New York City and more than double the number of zones in the 2019 executive budget. The governors new plan would reinstate and expand the program through statute and expand the number of impacted school zones from 140 to 290.

In March 2019, state legislators passed a massive expansion bill that expanded the use of speed cameras to 750 school zones. It also permitted the cameras to operate year-round on weekdays, from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., including summer vacations. Under previous programs, cameras were only permitted to operate during school activity hours.

That summer the number of speed cameras permitted citywide increased from 140 to 750, a 436% increase, and would be phased in between 2019 and June 2020.

The language in the new law allowed cameras to be placed within a quarter-mile radial distance of a school, as opposed to the previous law that required the cameras to be placed within a quarter-mile of the school along an abutted street.

Last September, Mayor Bill de Blasio said the DOT had achieved its goal of installing speed cameras in 750 school zones throughout the five boroughs, making it the largest speed camera network anywhere in the world. A total of 950 cameras were installed.

The number of school zones with cameras was legally capped at 750, however, one school zone could have multiple cameras. Just three months later de Blasio plead to the state to allow the city to do more by allowing the speed cameras to run 24/7, 365 days a year.

#fyiSI -- HERES THE POINT

When #fyiSI launched in October 2018, the Advance received dozens of questions from readers about all things Staten Island.

Now, were continuing to provide answers and are asking you again to ask us anything, Staten Island -- and we mean anything.

Through #fyiSI, Im going to answer all of your burning questions  with the occasional help of my coworkers  about the borough with 479,458 residents that we all call home.

Some of the questions weve received so far include:

How can we ask for a stop sign to be added?

What happened to my favorite restaurant?

Is that a mobile speed camera?

Why is the Department of Transportation doing construction on my block?

Now I ready to tackle them all, and Im looking for more questions, Whatever it is, Ill answer it.

You might be wondering how #fyiSI differs from the average story you already read in the Staten Island Advance or on SILive.com.

Were not stepping away from the traditional news article, but instead adding social media elements like Facebook live, Instagram stories, Twitter polls, and other multimedia to help us reach you.

Well also do a lot of reporting on site.

Questions should include your name, neighborhood of residence and contact information, and can be emailed to fyi@siadvance.com or kdalton@siadvance.com.

#fyiSI questions weve answered so far

FOLLOW KRISTIN F. DALTON ON TWITTER.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- With some lawmakers pushing for a possible fourth stimulus payment, a petition from a Denver restaurant owner is asking Congress and the Senate to approve monthly government checks of $2,000 until the end of the pandemic.

The Change.org petition, launched by Stephanie Bonin, asking lawmakers to pass a bill approving monthly recurring checks has more than two million signatures. The petitions goal is to get three million signatures.

Im calling on Congress to support families with a $2,000 payment for adults and a $1,000 payment for kids immediately, and continuing regular checks for the duration of the crisis. Otherwise, laid-off workers, furloughed workers, the self-employed, and workers dealing with reduced hours will struggle to pay their rent or put food on the table, said Bonin.

...my family has lost all of the income from our restaurant, and business owners and the self-employed cant claim unemployment. This is the story of America right now, she added.

In March, a group of 11 Democratic senators, including Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), sent a letter to Biden, urging him to support recurring payments in his Build Back Better long-term economic plan.

This crisis is far from over, and families deserve certainty that they can put food on the table and keep a roof over their heads, they wrote. Families should not be at the mercy of constantly-shifting legislative timelines and ad hoc solutions.

However, the Biden administration has not included recurring payments in either of its announced spending package proposals since they sent their letter.

Biden included a five-year extension of an expanded Child Tax Credit for families and a permanent extension of the expanded Earned Income Tax Credit for low-income workers without children in his $1.8 trillion proposal announced during his speech to a joint session of Congress on Wednesday.

So far, a total of 159 million disbursements with a total value of $376 billion has been dolled out as part of the $1.9 trillion American Reduce Plan, according to the IRS.

However, for many Americans still suffering amid the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the third stimulus isnt enough.

According to U.S. Census Bureau data collected in March, nearly 30% of Americans came up short when trying to cover household expenses.

*** CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE COVERAGE OF CORONAVIRUS IN NEW YORK***

FOLLOW TRACEY PORPORA ON FACEBOOK and TWITTER
The Health and Sciences COVID-19 Advisory Group of Experts (EAG) is disturbed by the sharp surge in cases which has led to major hospitals in the Klang Valley surpassing 70% capacity for COVID-19 patients.



Despite the wide array of public health measures in place, the pandemic has not subsided.

This calls for a re-evaluation of our COVID-19 response strategy. The evolving nature of the pandemic requires that we evolve in our public health responses too.

Therefore, it bears repeating that a blanket movement control order (MCO) is not the answer to addressing the impending wave.

The national COVID-19 response must instead be a targeted basket of solutions informed by granular, risk-stratified epidemiological data.

We commend the work done by the Hotspot Identification for Dynamic Engagement (HIDE) team at Bank Negara Malaysia in this area.

As HIDE launched in March 2021, there is not yet definitive data on its effectiveness, but it has immense potential in supporting rapid COVID-19 response.

So, we strongly urge the integration of HIDE tools and findings across all health authorities in the country, as in the following:

1. Integrate HIDE with digital, automated find, test, trace, isolate and support (FTTIS) protocols.

After over a year, there is still insufficient testing and surveillance measures in place. This prevents authorities from effectively containing potential outbreaks and stemming the escalation of clusters.

There must be more rapid antigen tests deployed in areas identified by HIDE analysis, which will allow for early interventions such as swift isolation of persons-under-investigation and targeted MCO. Highly targeted MCO at the district or mukim level will reduce the burden on hospitals as outbreaks are contained.

Moreover, automated contact tracing must be quickly deployed across the board to phase out manual contact tracing so resources can be better utilized in other areas.

There must also be greater emphasis on the Support stage for persons-under-surveillance (PUS).

PUS' and casual contacts, need clear instructions on testing and isolation to maximize compliance.

Those who are isolating must also be given access to resources to support them mentally, emotionally, and financially during the isolation period.

2. Train and empower state and district health authorities to utilize HIDE data.

HIDE technology and data must be shared with health authorities at all levels. On top of that, decentralize decision-making and empower health authorities at the state and district level to manage and make decisions that impact their respective populations.

Should some states or districts not have the public health or epidemiological expertise, the Ministry of Health (MOH) should provide training support to their personnel on the ground.

Alternatively, invite experts from outside MOH and leverage upon existing networks from various fields, ministries, and universities to provide analytical support.

It is imperative that the local health authorities are equipped to monitor and evaluate COVID-19 data on the ground.

Local health authorities can also collaborate with non-government organizations (NGO) for operational tasks such as mass targeted testing. There must be sufficient resources allocated to ensure that decentralized data-driven decision-making can happen on the ground.

3. Improve granularity of data by integrating with MySejahtera.

Once there is proven result of HIDE analysis effectiveness, its functionality should be better integrated with MySejahtera.

Currently, HIDE provides a 7-day advance notice of large outbreaks based on MySejahtera data. However, there is still a lag between the analysis and response on the ground. Premises and casual contacts should be notified as soon as there is any hint of an outbreak, and they must be given clear instruction on how to proceed in the FTTIS process.

On the other hand, MySejahtera data can provide greater granularity to the hotspots and clusters that occur, and better-inform experts on behaviors surrounding public health measures.

With Hari Raya celebrations around the corner and the vaccine rollout underway, we cannot risk being complacent.

The vaccine is not a panacea, and the current rollout rate requires that we deploy all public health tools at our disposal.

We must not be fixated on the unrealistic goal of zero cases, rather channel all our resources on inhibiting severe illness and deaths as well as preventing our healthcare system from being overwhelmed.

We must act swiftly to deploy the new predictive tools in our arsenal for an improved rapid pandemic response.

We the undersigned members of the Health and Sciences COVID-19 Advisory Group of Experts:

1. Tan Sri Dato' Dr Abu Bakar Suleiman, Chairman

2. Professor Dr Rosmawati Mohamed, Academy of Medicine of Malaysia

3. Dr Mary Cardosa, Malaysian Medical Association

4. Dato' Dr Fadzilah Kamaludin, Malaysian Public Health Physicians' Association

5. Datuk Dr Kuljit Singh, Association of Private Hospitals of Malaysia

6. Datuk Dr Christopher Lee, Malaysian Society of Infection Control and Infectious Diseases
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AOL and Yahoo are being sold again, this time to a private equity firm.

Verizon will sell Verizon Media, which consists of the pioneering tech platforms, to Apollo Global Management in a $US5 billion ($6.47 billion) deal.

Sold again: Yahoo and AOL. Credit:AP

Verizon said Monday that it will keep a 10 per cent stake in the new company, which will be called Yahoo.

Yahoo at the end of the last century was the face of the internet, preceding the behemoth tech platforms to follow, such as Google and Facebook.
Replacing the irreplaceable Warren Buffett wont be easy.

But thats the path ahead for Greg Abel, a Berkshire Hathaway vice chairman who was publicly identified as the successor to Americas most renowned investor for the first time on Monday (US time). Buffett said the 58-year-old executive will take over the $US630 billion ($811 billion) business when he steps down.

Berkshire vice chairman Greg Abel has been named as Warren Buffetts likely successor. Credit:Bloomberg

Abels more than two-decade track record at the conglomerate includes high-profile dealmaking and overseeing its sprawling non-insurance businesses, from the BNSF railroad to Dairy Queen. But Buffetts aphorisms and stature as the Oracle of Omaha have earned him a reputation as the avuncular face of capitalism, and secured him a following that Abel may find hard to replicate.

Theres only one Warren Buffett, David Kass, a professor of finance at the University of Marylands Robert H. Smith School of Business, said in a phone interview. But he brings other strengths to the table, Kass said of Abel. He exudes extreme competence.
Most successful entrepreneurs will admit they need a foil: someone willing to challenge their decisions, to question their judgment and tell them when they are wrong.

Mike Cannon-Brookes and Scott Farquhar, arguably Australias most successful entrepreneurs of the past two decades, are no exception to this dynamic. At Atlassian, the $70 billion software giant they created, the hard truth teller and the key conduit between them and the rest of the company is chief of staff Amy Glancey.

Atlassian chief of staff Amy Glancey. Credit:Louie Douvis

Decoding how they [Cannon-Brookes and Farquhar] work, what they mean when they say something, how to be brave enough to tell Mike to stop talking, Glancey says. Thats the role I play in meetings.

They may not always be the easiest of conversations but Glancey, the former communications director at Atlassian, isnt afraid to have them. Its a handy trait for a chief of staff to have and one that has not only made her an influential figure behind the scenes at Atlassian but also one of just three women in the companys 11-person senior executive team.
Scott Morrison is not Donald Trump, but its the sort of controversy that Donald Trump would have loved to create. The Australian government not only shut the border to India last week, it also spelled out the warning that even returning Australian citizens could be jailed for five years for trying to get home.

Trump used border closures against minorities to give expression to his racist attitudes against Muslims and Mexicans. He had pretexts of law and order but his political purpose was to excite racists among his support base.

Scott Morrison is standing by his decision to ban Australian citizens from returning from India. Credit:Rhett Wyman

Morrison might have flirted with the odd Trumpist idea a while ago, but this was not the aim of the India decision. The policy is to protect against COVID. In fact, Morrison last week announced the first of several shipments of emergency aid to India, including ventilators and oxygen concentrators.

Yet a leader of the Indian Australian community and a prominent Liberal Party supporter, Dr Jagvinder Virk, explained how many feel: I have always said there is a White Australia policy and today we are seeing it.
Qatar's residential units stock for the first three months of the year stood at 304,715, with the addition of 1,700 apartments and villas during the period, according to UAE-based consulting firm ValuStrat.

Some 6,300 units are currently in the pipeline for the remaining quarters of 2021, it stated.

The median transacted ticket size for residential houses was QR2.7mn, increased by 3.4% quarterly and 6.8% annually, added the report.

According to ValuStrat, the apartment supply consisted of 1,650 units coming from project handovers in Lusail (Fox Hills and Marina District), The Pearl, Al Dafna, Mirqab Al Jadeed and Fereej Abdul Aziz.

Contracts of residential buildings awarded during the first quarter in Lusail Waterfront, Marina and Fox Hills, were estimated to add 450 units by the end of 2022.

Transactional volumes for houses declined 3.3% quarterly, but were 52.8% higher when compared to the same period last year, said the report.

Amongst all areas, Umm Garn had the highest volume of transactions for residential houses and Fereej Al Amir had the highest ticket size.

Some 68 transactions were recorded for residential buildings, as Old Airport and Umm Ghuwailina had the highest number of transactions.

During the first two months of 2021, the volume and value of annual transactions in The Pearl and West Bay Lagoon fell 6.8% and 11.7% respectively.

The median monthly asking rent for residential units dropped 1.8% QoQ and 5.7% YoY, ValuStrat said.

Villa rents continue to reduce at a slower pace compared to apartment rents, which have experienced rapid drops over the last year.

The median monthly asking rent for apartments was QR6,290, declining 1.9% quarterly and 6% annually.

Three-bedroom apartments experienced the highest quarterly falls in rent of up to 5.3%.

West Bay, Fereej Bin Mahmoud and Al Mansoura experienced the highest quarterly drops in rents varying 3.5% to 5%, said the report.

The median monthly asking rent for villas was QR10,460, which fell by 1.2% QoQ and 3.9% YoY, it added.

According to ValuStrat, the villa and freehold apartment prices saw quarterly price drops of 1.3% and 2.4%, respectively. Amongst freehold apartments, The Pearl witnessed the sharpest decline in values.

Amongst villas, the highest quarterly depreciation of 5.6% in capital values was experienced in Al Wakrah cluster. Five locations (Umm Salal Ali, Old Airport, The Pearl, West Bay Lagoon and Ain Khaled) saw a marginal QoQ change of less than a percent in capital values, it added.-TradeArabia News Service
NSW Deputy Premier John Barilaro says he is deeply concerned about vaccine hesitancy in NSW, with more available doses than demand because people are complacent about receiving their jab.

Mr Barilaro warned that people across NSW are shunning vaccines because they believed that COVID-19 was no longer a threat in the state.

Deputy Premier John Barilaro says people in NSW are not ready to get their COVID-19 vaccine. Credit:James Alcock

Right now here in NSW one of my greatest concerns is that people arent rolling up to get vaccinated ... we have capacity and we have more vaccines than demand, Mr Barilaro said.

And thats because in NSW we are living in a period of normal [because] the reality is there is no virus and there is complacency.
The commissioner who led the states ice inquiry has accused the NSW government of missing a once-in-a-generation opportunity for drug reform and ignoring his recommendations 15 months after handing down a landmark report.

Professor Dan Howard SC said he was deeply disappointed with the governments failure to respond to the 104 remaining recommendations after rejecting five almost outright, including pill testing and another supervised injecting centre. He said he wanted to know its reasoning for doing so.

Professor Dan Howard has criticised the NSW government over its inaction on his recommendations from the ice inquiry.

The veteran lawyer and teacher also said it was beyond belief and unacceptable the government hadnt responded to a recommendation for more services for Aboriginal communities. He said he had felt personally haunted by some evidence of Indigenous families who remained sceptical the government would help.

Having heard all the evidence Ive heard, and made the recommendations that Ive made, to be 15 months later wondering what on earth is the government planning to do, it makes me despairing of the political process, Professor Howard said.
First published in The Sydney Morning Herald on May 3, 1951



SEARCH FOR BOXERS MURDERER



The murderer of Daniel (Danny) Simmons, 27, boxer and bookmakers clerk, who was shot dead in Ultimo on Tuesday night, had not been captured last night.

Chow Hayes, centre, at the funeral of his nephew Danny Simmons on May 4, 1951. Credit:Staff photographer

Simmons was lying on a couch at the home of Frederick (Chow) Hayes, in Thomas Street when he was shot.

Detectives under Detective Inspector J. Gordon searching for the gunman have been able to get no help from the underworld, but they believe the killer, in the semi-darkness, mistook Simmons for Hayes.

Hayes, who is Simmonss uncle, fears for his life, and has gone into hiding. He was shot in the shoulder in 1939, and police believe that the gunman was a member of the underworld. The only statement Hayes would make to the police then was that Father Christmas hit me with a bottle.
A man has been jailed for 14 years for inflicting prolonged sadistic brutality on his partner, including cutting her with a knife and hitting her feet with a hammer because he believed she was not having sex with him often enough.

The man, given the pseudonym Mr Duff to protect the womans identity, began dating the 21-year-old in 2018 and they soon moved in together in Sydneys south-west.

A Sydney man has been jailed for 14 years for violent, controlling and sadistic behaviour against his partner. Credit:IStock

At first their relationship was normal, but Mr Duff changed substantially after they moved in and became extremely controlling and violent. He referred to the woman as his slave and refused to allow her to leave their home, even to attend work, which caused her to lose her job.

In a judgment on Friday, NSW District Court judge Andrew Colefax outlined a series of violent incidents that followed, including Mr Duff hitting the woman with a hammer and bolt-cutters, attempting to sexually assault her with the hammer, and cutting her on the stomach with a knife.
The longest road tunnel in Australia would be constructed between Lithgow and Katoomba within the next decade under a plan being considered by the NSW government.

The 11 kilometre tunnel could cost close to $8 billion and burrow through the Blue Mountains and onto Lithgow as part of the multibillion-dollar upgrade of the Great Western Highway, connecting the Central West to Sydney.

The site of one of the tunnel exits would be to the south of Evans Lookout Road near Blackheath. Credit:Edwina Pickles

The eastern entry for the tunnel is expected to be located on the outskirts of Blackheath in national park land to the south of Evans Lookout Road, though the state government says neither tunnel portal will impact the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area.

Deputy Premier John Barilaro on Monday said construction on the highway upgrade would begin next year, while tunnelling on the project would start in 2023.
The crewman of a foreign live exports carrier who slipped away from the Port of Townsville in north Queensland for almost 24 hours at the weekend has returned a negative COVID-19 test.

However, a federal parliamentarian was demanding answers over how the Pakistani national was able to evade the ports security.

Australian Border Force confirmed the 147-metre Polaris 3, which sails under the Panama flag, arrived in Townsville on Tuesday, April 27, after a 17-day journey from Huanghua in China.

On Saturday, ABF was told 12 crew members had disembarked and refused to reboard. Their visas were subsequently cancelled.
Protesters in hazmat suits, a pledge to tackle workplace sexual harassment, and the Deputy Premiers unfortunate stutter over the word contrast were highlights of Mondays Labour Day rallies and events.

Thousands gathered in Brisbanes CBD on Monday for the annual event, with workers from several unions congregating to demand better working conditions.

Pathology staff don hazmat suits for the Labour Day march in Brisbane. Credit:Cloe Read

Federal Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese, who led the march alongside Deputy Premier Steven Miles, said the parade was the largest May Day event in the country.

When seeking to compare how the Prime Minister and Opposition Leader were spending Labour Day, Mr Miles slip of the tongue fired up the crowd.
Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Normal text size Larger text size Very large text size Six months after a teenager was killed in a Brisbane park brawl resulting in 13 people being charged, police prosecutors were still waiting for autopsy results and reports on crucial forensic evidence. A 2018 audit found Queensland waiting times for the analysis of DNA had increased since 2013  as had the number of exhibits needing to be tested  however the number of lab staff to do this work had fallen. The case against 13 people charged over the death of 19-year-old Girum Mekonnen in Zillmere last year has been held up by a backlog of evidence analysis. Credit:Brisbane Times After that damning Auditor-Generals report, the agencies responsible for analysing forensic evidence and providing DNA reports set up an oversight committee to address the issues identified. The agencies  the Queensland Police Service and Queensland Health  also stressed that their work had to be peer reviewed to a national standard, potentially adding to the delays. The recent criminal case that highlighted these issues was the stabbing of 19-year-old Girum Mekonnen at Zillmeres OCallaghan Park, in Brisbanes north, on September 13, 2020. Police allege a brawl broke out between two large groups at the park, with 10 other people injured in the melee.

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Mr Mekonnen was originally from Ethiopia and his death prompted a meeting of police and the local African community. On March 15, the case was reviewed in Brisbane Magistrates Court, where the police prosecutor said some evidence was still three months away. There are still forensic officers statements, which will be forthcoming in the next few weeks, as well as DNA statements  as well as the autopsy report, which we dont have an ETA on, but the delays are usually up to 12 months. Mr Mekonnen was remembered as a sweet, kind boy. Credit:Facebook The case will be reviewed again in Brisbane Magistrates Court on May 17. The 2018 Auditor-General report examined reporting on fingerprints, DNA samples, forensic medical examinations and illicit drugs, in support of criminal investigations and prosecutions. The findings showed forensic and scientific services were struggling to keep pace with increased demand due to a lack of planning and modelling.

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The number of DNA exhibits 120 days or older increased by 344 per cent in five years, from 289 in 2013-14 to 1284 in 2017-18, the report said. Since 2013-14, the number of DNA exhibits analysed has increased by 21 per cent, but the number of full-time-equivalent staff in the forensic DNA team decreased from 65 to 61 in 2017-18. Loading [Queensland Healths] budget for forensic DNA also decreased by approximately $1 million over the five-year period [2013-2018]. Between 2013-14 and 2017-18, the number of exhibits for analysis per forensic scientist/expert per year increased from 182 to 214. Over the five years, the median time to collect, transport, analyse and report DNA results fluctuated from 35.1 days in 2013-14 to 51.3 days in 2016-17, and 49 days in 2017-18. DNA exhibits that were 120 days or older had the greatest increase.

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The Auditor-General recommended QPS and Queensland Health investigate and address the extent and impact of the delays, particularly on the court system. This included ensuring performance targets were met and there was regular consultation with the Department of Justice and Attorney-General about the delivery of services and the impact on the justice system. Loading In response, a QPS spokeswoman said all agencies worked together to ensure evidence was analysed and prepared for court as quickly as possible while still meeting the high national standards. Reporting requirements vary depending on the type of product being produced, such are the complexities of forensic evidence, she said. For example, autopsy reports can take up to 12 months [five months on average], compared to DNA examinations, which can take up to 14 days. All examinations are completed to a national standard, and part of this requires much of our work to be peer reviewed. On occasion, this can add to delays in providing results.

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A sorry saga that started when Solomon Lew attempted to purchase the Thai villa where he proposed to his wife really has developed into an international property squabble for the ages.

Solomon Lew is haggling over the legal costs in a dispute over a Thai villa. Credit:Illustration: John Shakespeare

Readers will recall the legal action kicked off in 2017 over a villa in the Thai enclave of Phuket after Lew verbally agreed to buy the property, only to find out weeks later it had been sold to a higher bidder - Hong Kong businessman Christian Larpin.

In February, a Singaporean judge sided with Larpin, ruling that Lew had a reasonable expectation to believe he had bought the villa, but that the broker who struck the deal didnt have the authority to sell it.

Critically, the judge also ruled that Lew should pay the defendants costs - a fair whack considering there are five defendants including Larpin, his investment vehicle, and the original villa owners - Credit Suisse director Kai Nargolwala and his wife Aparna.
Diyar Al Muharraq, one of the largest real estate development companies in Bahrain, has announced plans to start construction on a new mosque, named Malalla Mosque, in addition to a hall, named after the late Yousif Abdulla Janahi, as part of the Sarat residential project.

This step comes in line with Diyar Al Muharraqs commitment to providing its residents with the necessary facilities for a fully integrated modern city.

Complementing the masterplan seamlessly, the developer said its initiative comes in line with Diyar Al Muharraqs ongoing commitment to providing facilities that will ultimately enhance the lifestyle of its residents, as well as visitors.

The ground-breaking is due to commence this May, with the construction of the Malalla Mosque and hall having been commissioned to Tamam Contracting Company,.

Set to span a total area of 844 sq m, the Malalla Mosque will include a prayer hall for both men and women, an expansive parking lot, as well as a hall in honour of the late Yousif Abdulla Janahi; exclusively designated for religious events.

On completion, the mosque will serve a neighbourhood comprising of approximately 160 residences, and will welcome over 200 worshippers at a time.

Characterised by its traditional Bahraini design that was inspired by historic local architecture, the mosques aesthetics are further complimented by subtle modern touches, embodying the simplicity of authentic Bahraini heritage and Islamic architecture, making for a peaceful place of worship.

CEO Engineer Ahmed Ali Alammadi said: "Every year, Ramadan comes bearing goodwill, and it gives us great pleasure to announce the commencement of construction on the Malalla Mosque and hall in honour of the late Yousif Abdulla Janahi, in the Sarat project."

"This initiative comes in line with our ongoing commitment to serve the needs of residents and visitors of Diyar Al Muharraq, and will work in synergy alongside the various facilities outlined in the masterplan. We look forward to continuing to build places of worship across the city, as they are foundational pillars to the communities we build," he added.

Diyar Al Muharraq is one of the largest integrated cities in the kingdom, offering a variety of housing solutions and a luxurious modern lifestyle while persevering the core family values in Bahraini society.

It offers a unique, balanced mix of residential, commercial, recreational, and healthcare facilities, creating a fully integrated and futuristic model city.
Early last year, when the extent of the pandemic was becoming evident to senior health and government officials across the globe, many nations  including Australia  started putting the walls up. By February, the Morrison government banned anyone entering the country from China, with the exception of Australian citizens, permanent residents and their immediate families. The following month, the ban was extended to most non-citizens from entering the country. In hindsight, it was the right call.

Australias hotel quarantine system was not introduced until late March, and the nation was still coming to grips with the measures that would be required to keep COVID-19 contained. The learning curve has been enormous ever since.

But learnt it has. Australia would now comfortably sit near the top of the table when it comes to restricting the spread of the virus. The most potent weapons in its armour in keeping COVID-19 at bay would be its hotel quarantine system and  when faced with an outbreak  its contact tracing system and a willingness of most people to follow the fluctuating social-distancing restrictions.

This has curbed the spread of the virus in Australia, despite concerns over new highly infectious variations of the virus, and an upsurge in cases in many countries, including Britain and America.

And yet, more than 12 months after first confronting the virus, Australia has determined to put the walls up even higher. For the first time ever, the national government has made it a crime for a particular group of its own citizens, who are in desperate need of help, to return home.
The nations top medical expert says he advised the federal government to stem the flow of Australians returning from India because of COVID-19 but made no recommendations to jail or fine those who circumvent travel bans.

Chief Medical Officer Professor Paul Kelly said the expert health advice group, the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee, told the government the risk coming from India had reached a benchmark of concern.

People who have been in India in the 14 days before arriving in Australia now face fines or jail time. Credit:Bloomberg

India recorded 392,488 new cases and a record daily death toll of 3689 on Sunday.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the government was continuing to make decisions in the countrys best interests.
Major-General Adam Findlay has provided more detail on the threats facing the nation than has previously been publicly revealed.

Firstly, the secret briefing by the special forces commander, revealed by The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald, shows just how concerned Australias senior military planners are about the escalating threat of Chinas grey zone tactics.

The grey zone  which includes cyber attacks and disinformation campaigns  refers to aggressions that fall somewhere between the traditional conceptions of war and peace. Authoritarian states such as China, Russia, Iran and North Korea are very good at competing in this space, while democracies are just learning.

Chinese President Xi Jinping (centre in green uniform) poses with soldiers on a navy ship in 2018. Credit:LI GANG

According to Findlay, China has learnt to stay within the grey zone because it knows from history that Western democracies tend to still think in the old binary fashion, and when states cross the line we start bombing people and we start getting angry.
Australian taxpayers could face a multimillion-dollar compensation bill if the federal government forced a Chinese company to give up its ownership of the Port of Darwin.

The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age revealed on Monday the national security committee of cabinet had asked the Defence Department to review the Northern Territorys 99-year lease of the port to Landbridge in 2015.

Defence is reviewing Landbridges ownership of the Port of Darwin. Credit:Glenn Campbell

This could result in the company, owned by Chinese billionaire Ye Cheng, having to divest the strategically important asset on national security grounds under critical infrastructure laws passed in 2018.

A costing undertaken by the Parliamentary Budget Office two years ago estimated the federal government would have to pay $30 million in compensation to Landbridge if it was required to give up the port.
New York: Countries around the world are accelerating deliveries of desperately needed medical supplies to India as the country endures an unrelenting, catastrophic second wave of coronavirus infections.

On Sunday, the United States delivered the third of six aid shipments to New Delhi, including 1000 oxygen cylinders; Britain donated more than 400 oxygen concentrators; and France sent eight oxygen generators, each of which can serve 250 hospitalised patients.

Medical supplies and materials are loaded into a cargo plane to India at Roissy airport, north of Paris on Saturday. Credit:AP

Oxygen in India has been in short supply as it grapples with this latest wave of infections, leaving some dying COVID patients gasping for air in hospital beds. Others, unable to find room in overwhelmed health care centres, have died in hospital parking lots or at home.

On April 15, the health ministry said in a statement that India had a daily production capacity of about 7700 tonnes of oxygen, some of which is used for industrial purposes, with 55,000 tonnes in reserve. A week later, a government official told the Delhi High Court that medical demand had reached 8800 tonnes per day, beyond the daily production capacity.
Singapore: Chinas top two vaccines could be approved by the World Health Organisation for global distribution within days, providing a potential boost to vaccine capacity of 3 billion doses a year.

The decision to approve or reject the Sinopharm and Sinovac vaccines falls at a critical time for medical diplomacy as India grapples with the worlds largest outbreak, the US and Europe are accused of hoarding vaccine patents and China pushes its resources across the Indo-Pacific.

A healthcare worker prepares a dose of COVID-19 vaccine in Santiago, Chile. Credit:AP

A green light would see Sinopharm and Sinovac join AstraZeneca, Johnson & Johnson and Pfizer in the global COVAX facility, allowing them to be distributed to developing countries without bilateral agreements. Both are inactivated vaccines, which can be stored in a fridge between 2-8 degrees, allowing them to be efficiently transported around the world.

A red light for the vaccines would set back the global immunisation program, force European and American producers to step up already strained production and hamper Chinas geopolitical ambitions.
Rome: Rapper Fedez has set off a political storm in Italy by accusing state broadcaster RAI of trying to censor him during a union-sponsored May Day concert at which he accused the rightist League party of homophobia.

RAI, which plays a central role in Italian cultural life and comes under enormous political pressure, denied trying to censor Fedez and said in a statement the concert had been organised by an outside company.

Italian rapper Fedez perform during the Italian State RAI TV program The Voice of Italy, in Milan, Italy. Credit:AP

Taking to the stage on Saturday night, Fedez said that for the first time in his career he had been asked to hand over a text of what he had been planning to say.

The management of RAI 3 asked me to omit the names and the parties. I had to fight a bit, a lot, but in the end they gave me the go-ahead to express myself freely, he said.
London: The former MI6 spy Christopher Steele produced a second dossier for the FBI on Donald Trump while he was in the White House, sources told The Telegraph of London.

Steele filed a series of intelligence reports to US authorities during the Trump presidency, including information concerning alleged sexual exploits.

Former British intelligence officer Christopher Steele in London in 2020.` Credit:AP

Steeles continued involvement supplying intelligence to the FBI appears to give credibility to his original dossier, which sparked a Special Counsel investigation by prosecutor Robert Mueller into Russian interference into the 2016 US presidential elections.

Steeles original leaked dossier detailed allegations of misconduct, conspiracy and cooperation between Trumps presidential campaign team and Vladimir Putins government.
Facebooks Oversight Board, an independent and international panel that was created and funded by the social network, plans to announce on Wednesday whether former President Donald Trump will be able to return to the platform that has been a critical megaphone for him and his tens of millions of followers.

The decision will be closely watched as a template for how private companies that run social networks handle political speech, including the misinformation spread by political leaders.

Trump was indefinitely locked out of Facebook on January 7 after he used his social media accounts to incite a mob of his supporters to storm the Capitol a day earlier. Trump had declined to accept his election defeat, saying the election had been stolen from him.

Paul Roblyer from Portland, Oregon, holds a flag of with an image of former President Donald Trump at a second amendment rally on May 1. Credit:

At the time that Facebook barred Trump, the companys chief executive, Mark Zuckerberg, wrote in a post: We believe the risks of allowing the president to continue to use our service during this period are simply too great.
PHILIPSBURG:--- A considerable amount of relief supplies has and continues to arrive at the ash-covered island of St. Vincent. For the past month, over 20,000 residents try to cope with La Soufrieres ceaseless eruptions which have affected water supply and quality, with thousands either in shelters or have been taken in by family members and/or friends. To help with the recovery in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the Rotary Club of Sint. Maarten-Mid Isle, The Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunset, and Heavenly Water combined donated 12 pallets of water, for a total of 6,600 bottles of water.

The two Rotary clubs partnered with Heavenly Water to procure the pallets of water at a reasonable price. In total, Rotary Sint Maarten-Mid Isle secured 8 pallets, Rotary St. Martin Sunset secured 3 pallets, and Heavenly Water graciously donated 1 pallet. This initiative was spearheaded by Rotary Sunsets Honorary Member Kenrick Housen, who expressed, In times like these, it is only right that we look out for our neighbors. This donation will go a long way, but with added donations from the St. Martin population we can assist on a much larger scale to bring relief to the affected persons in St. Vincent.

With more than 1.2 million members worldwide, Rotarians are on the ground and ready to take action to help communities recover when disasters strike. Here in St. Martin, we know all too well what it is like to be in distress after a disaster, and our Rotarians immediately knew we had to contribute to St. Vincent in their recovery efforts. To ensure that the donation reaches the most vulnerable, the pallets will be collected by President Annette of the Rotary Club of Kingstown, St.Vincent, and will be dispersed by members of the Rotary club, the clubs stated.

The Rotary Club of Sint Maarten-Mid Isle and the Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunset would like to extend its heartfelt gratitude to all Rotarians and friends of Rotary for their kind contribution towards this initiative. The clubs would also like to wish the people of St. Vincent much strength and speedy recovery at this time.
Fury Files Preliminary Base Shelf Prospectus

Posted by Publisher Internet

Fury Gold Mines Limited (TSX: FURY, NYSE American: FURY) (?Fury? or the ?Company?  https://www.commodity-tv.com/ondemand/companies/profil/fury-gold-mines-ltd/ ) today announced that it has filed, and received a receipt from the Ontario Securities Commission (as principal regulator) for, a preliminary short form base shelf prospectus (the ?Preliminary Shelf Prospectus?) with the securities commissions or similar regulatory authorities in all of the provinces and territories of Canada (the ?Qualifying Jurisdictions?), and has filed a corresponding registration statement on Form F-10 with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the ?SEC?) under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the ?Registration Statement?).

Upon the issuance of a receipt for the final base shelf prospectus (the ?Final Shelf Prospectus? and, together with the Preliminary Shelf Prospectus, the ?Prospectus?) and the Registration Statement having been declared effective by the SEC, the Company will be permitted to offer up to C$200 million of common shares, subscription receipts, warrants, and units or any combination thereof (collectively, the ?Securities?) during the 25-month period that the Prospectus is effective. The specific terms of any offering of Securities, including the use of proceeds from any offering, will be set forth in a shelf prospectus supplement.

Securities may be offered under the Prospectus (and corresponding Registration Statement) separately or together, in amounts, at prices and on terms to be determined based on market conditions at the time of sale and as set forth in an applicable prospectus supplement.? No Securities may be sold, nor may offers to buy be accepted, prior to the time a receipt for the Final Shelf Prospectus has been issued and the Registration Statement has been declared effective.

Information regarding the use of proceeds of any offering of Securities will be contained in a prospectus supplement relating to the particular offering. Such proceeds may be used to further the Company?s exploration plans at the Eau Claire project and to fund, in whole or in part, the Company?s exploration plans at the Homestake Ridge and Committee Bay projects, and for working capital purposes.

The Company currently anticipates that its current financial resources will be sufficient to fund its planned operations for the 12 months from the date of the Prospectus, as set out in more detail under the heading ?Use of Proceeds? in the Prospectus. For a discussion of the Company?s currently funded plans and the Company?s plans if it raises additional capital, see ?Corporate strategy? and ?Financial position, liquidity, and capital resources? in the Company?s management?s discussion and analysis for the year ended December 31, 2020, which is incorporated by reference in the Prospectus and the Registration Statement.

The Registration Statement has been filed with the SEC, but is not yet effective. Securities may not be sold nor may offers to buy be accepted prior to the time the Registration Statement becomes effective. Copies of the Prospectus and the Registration Statement (once effective) may be obtained on request without charge from the Corporate Secretary of Fury at 34 King Street East, Suite 601, Toronto, Ontario, M5C 2X8, telephone (437) 500-2529 and are also available electronically at www.sedar.com or www.sec.gov/edgar.shtml.

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 these Securities in any jurisdiction in which an offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction.

About Fury Gold Mines Limited

Fury Gold Mines Limited is a Canadian-focused exploration and development company positioned in three prolific mining regions across the country. Led by a management team and board of directors with proven success in financing and developing mining assets, Fury intends to grow and advance its multi-million-ounce gold platform through project development and potential new discoveries. Fury is committed to upholding the highest industry standards for corporate governance, environmental stewardship, community engagement and sustainable mining. For more information on Fury, visit www.furygoldmines.com.

For further information on Fury Gold Mines Limited, please contact:

Salisha Ilyas, Vice President, Investor Relations

Tel: (437) 500-2529

Email: info@furygoldmines.com

Website: www.furygoldmines.com

In Europe:

Swiss Resource Capital AG

Jochen Staiger

info@resource-capital.ch

www.resource-capital.ch

Forward-Looking Statements and Additional Cautionary Language

This release includes certain statements that may be deemed to be ?forward-looking information? or ?forward-looking statements? within the meaning of applicable Canadian and United States securities laws (?forward-looking statements?), which relate to the future operations of the Company and other statements that are not historical facts. Generally, these forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as \plans\, \expects\, \budget\, \scheduled\, \estimates\, \forecasts\, \intends\, \anticipates\, or \believes\, or the negatives and/or variations of such words and phrases, or state that certain actions, events or results \may\, \could\, \would\, \might\ or \will be taken\, \occur\, \be achieved\ or \has the potential to\. Forward-looking statements are information that includes implied future performance and/or forecast information. Forward-looking statements in this release reflect management\-\-s current estimates, predictions, expectations or beliefs regarding future events. Specific forward-looking statements contained in this release includes information relating to: the Prospectus and the Registration Statement, including any future issuance of Securities or raising of funds thereunder and the use of proceeds of any offering of Securities.

There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Forward-looking statements reflect the beliefs, opinions and projections on the date such statements are made and are based on a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable at the time, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties and contingencies. Such assumptions, which may prove to be incorrect, include: general economic and industry growth rates; the Company\-\-s budget, including expected costs and the assumptions regarding market conditions; the Company\-\-s ability to raise additional capital to proceed with its exploration, development and operations plans; the Company\-\-s ability to obtain or renew the licenses and permits necessary for its current and future operations; and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and expectations reflected in those forward-looking statements were reasonable at the time such statements were made, there can be no assurance that such assumptions and expectations will prove to be correct.

Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different (either positively or negatively) from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including risks relating, but not limited, to: the COVID-19 pandemic; the future price of minerals, including gold and other metals; and the success of the Company\-\-s exploration and development activities. Readers should refer to the risks discussed in the Company\-\-s Annual Information Form and MD&A for the year ended December 31, 2020 and subsequent continuous disclosure filings with the Canadian Securities Administrators available at www.sedar.com and the Company\-\-s Annual Report on Form 40-F for the year ended December 31, 2020 filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission and available at www.sec.gov. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release represent the Company\-\-s expectations as of the date of this press release or the date indicated. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation or undertaking to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required under applicable securities law.

Cautionary Note to United States Investors Concerning Estimates of Mining Disclosure

The mining and technical disclosure throughout this release is made in accordance with applicable Canadian law and the guidelines set out in the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum CIM Definition Standards on Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves (\CIM Standards\). The Company\-\-s descriptions of its projects using applicable Canadian law and CIM Standards may not be comparable to similar information made public by U.S. companies subject to the reporting and disclosure requirements under the United States federal securities laws and the rules and regulations thereunder.
Somerset, KY (42501)

Today

Rain showers this morning with numerous thunderstorms developing during the afternoon hours. High 76F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%. Locally heavy rainfall possible..

Tonight

Thunderstorms this evening followed by occasional showers overnight. Low 67F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%.
In the AIoT era, the world is getting smarter. Everything is going to have an online ID and then connected into a vast net of IoT devices, like a laptop computer, a mobile phone, a connected thermostat, or a network security camera.

Cybersecurity in the AIoT era

According to a Markets and Markets report, IoT is extensively used by smart cars to smart manufacturing and connected homes and building automation solutions. However, currently, there are no unified global technical standards for IoT, especially in terms of communications. This results in inefficient data management and reduced interoperability mechanism and ultimately may cause reduced security in the IoT network.

The global Internet of Things (IoT) security market size is expected to grow from USD 12.5 billion in 2020 to USD 36.6 billion by 2025, at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 23.9%.

Importance of cybersecurity

Various vertical industries store unprecedented amounts of data on devices like IP cameras and NVRs

Dahua Technology, a video-centric smart IoT solution and service provider, believes cybersecurity is of vital strategic importance in the age of AIoT.

In various vertical industries, such as traffic, banking & finance, hospital, and critical infrastructure, organisations collect, process, and store unprecedented amounts of data on devices like IP cameras and NVRs. A significant portion of that data can be sensitive or private information, which can be prone to cyber-attacks and the situation, is getting worse because there are more devices than people.

As a security solution provider, Dahua Technology continuously invests in cybersecurity and actively copes with network security issues.

Continuous investment & active coping

Committed to becoming a leader in cybersecurity and privacy protection in the global security industry, Dahua Technology has been developing and exploiting cybersecurity for nearly 10 years. The company keeps investing about 10% of its annual sales revenue in R&D every year, including cybersecurity.

In addition, the company put together a professional team of nearly 100 personnel to focus on cybersecurity issues. With rich experience and sufficient resources, Dahua Technology promises to be positive, open, cooperative, and responsible when it comes to cybersecurity.

Dahua Technology cybersecurity approach

1. Organisational structure

In order to achieve better efficiency and effectiveness, Dahua Technology operates a comprehensive system to cope with all cybersecurity-related issues. The system, led by the cybersecurity committee, also contains a cybersecurity & data protection compliance group, cybersecurity institute, and product security incident response team (PSIRT).

The cybersecurity committee, above all departments or teams, can call resources from the whole company, from the R&D centre to the legal department, supply chain, overseas business department, etc. when necessary. Cybersecurity Institute is in charge of building the sSDLC process and implementing the process to all Dahua product series, making sure that all Dahua products are strong against cyberattacks.

2. Security development lifecycle

Dahua adopts a bunch of professional sSDLC (Security Development Lifecycle) security software to improve product security

Dahua Technology adopts a bunch of professional sSDLC (Security Development Lifecycle) security software to improve product security. During the security design phase, STRIDE + Attack Tree + PIA is adapted to improve threat modeling. During the security realisation phase, OWASP top 10 and over 150 CWEs are used to achieve static code analysis.

During the security test phase, over 20 tools within 7 fields are applied to realise the multiple security testing. CompTIA PenTest+/Security+ are used to carry out professional penetration testing, while compliance ISO 30111&290147 and MITRE org CAN are followed during vulnerability management after the products are sold.

3. Emergency response system

Cooperation with professionals from across the globe is a great way to improve vulnerability detection. Therefore, Dahua Cybersecurity Center (DHCC) is established to solve cybersecurity issues with security vulnerability reporting, announcement/notice, and cybersecurity knowledge sharing with our global customer base in order to provide them with more robust and secure products/solutions.

Product Security Incident Response Team (PSIRT) is an integral part of DHCC. Composed of professionals ranging from marketing, supply chain, service, and legal representatives, PSIRT is responsible for receiving, processing, and disclosing Dahua product and solution-related security vulnerabilities.

Team members are on duty 7 days a week and guarantee to respond to an emergency within 48 hours. End-user, partner, supplier, government agency, industry association, and independent researchers are encouraged to report potential risk or vulnerability to PSIRT by email.

4. Personal data & privacy protection

Dahua Technology also attaches great importance to personal data & privacy protection. Complying with applicable laws and regulations such as EUs General Data Protection Regulation, EDPBs Guidelines on the concepts of controller and processor in the GDPR, ETSI EN 303645s Cyber Security for Consumer Internet of Things: Baseline Requirements as well as USs California Consumer Privacy Act, the company established the Personal Data & Privacy Protection Standard.

The standard stipulates that privacy protection methods such as de-identification, data encryption, and systematic access control, privacy-friendly setting are fully adapted to the complete data life cycle all the way from the collection, transmitting, storage to sharing, copying, and deleting.

In addition, working with world-renowned third-party institutions, Dahua Technology has received Protected Privacy IoT Product Certification and ETSI Certification from TUV Rheinland, as well as ISO 27018 Certification and ISO 27701 Certification from BSI, which help demonstrating its capability in managing personal information and compliance with privacy regulations around the world.

5. Continuously iterating security baseline

The security baseline built a security element layout of "AAA+CIA+P", a systematic protection framework

Centered on the core principles of Security by Design and Security by Default, the Dahua security baseline initiative taps into product safety technology to provide users with adequate safety guarantees.

Based on and practicing the security and privacy design principles, the security baseline builds a security element layout of "AAA+CIA+P", forming a systematic protection framework covering physical security, system security, application security, data security, network security, and privacy protection.

7 versions of baseline and 100+ principles have been developed to adapt Authentication, Authorisation, Audit, Confidentiality, Integrity, Availability, and Privacy protection deeply into the product quality assurance system, making sure that all Dahua products enjoy the factory default security.

6. Product security centre

In order to help users clearly understand the security status and capabilities of the device, the product security centre will assist users to conveniently and quickly set up the right security configuration to suit the scenarios.

General security capabilities include privacy protection (face occlusion, information hiding, etc.), video encryption, security alarm, trusted protection, CA certification management, key management service, attack defense, and so on.

7. Cybersecurity ecosystem

Adhering to openness and cooperation, Dahua Technology keeps cooperating with international authoritative security institutions to jointly build a secure ecosystem. By rich & in-depth communicating and cooperation with institutions like TUV Rheinland, BSI, DNVGL, Intertek EWA-Canada, and bright sight security lab, the company stays advanced its security capabilities and systems.

In a widely networked world of IoT, cybersecurity challenges are pretty much a universal sore spot for companies globally. Dahua Technology, in the business of keeping people safe, takes cybersecurity seriously from head to toe.

With a mindset that emphasises cybersecurity and all the resources that it can allocate to establish, carry out and strengthen the cybersecurity approach, Dahua Technology plans to stay positive, open, responsible and improving for the matter of cybersecurity.
Sarah Bowman

The Indianapolis Star

Gov. Eric Holcomb has vetoed a bill that would have increased labeling for ethanol fuel at gas stations, calling it unnecessary and confusing.

In a letter to Indiana Senate President Rodric Bray, Holcomb announced his decision to veto Senate Bill 303 because he said it requires a duplicative label at every pump that dispenses E15 fuel in the state. E15 is a blend of fuel that is 15% ethanol and 85% gasoline.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency already has mandates in place that require all stations and pumps with E15 fuels to have a label that clearly advises consumers of the implications of using the fuel in certain engines.

Some older cars may not be able to handle fuels blended with ethanol, said Farzad Taheripour, a professor of agricultural economics at Purdue University. But as many as 90% of cars in the U.S. today can use it with no problem, he said. The EPA has approved E15 to be used in cars 2001 and newer.

The concern is that an additional label could confuse customers and scare them off of purchasing and using ethanol fuels, which could hurt Indianas farmers.

Being a corn state, Indiana is a main producer of ethanol in the U.S. There are 14 plants in the state that produce ethanol, and roughly one-third of Indianas corn crop is converted into ethanol, according to the Indiana Corn Marketing Council.

According to an analysis of the Indiana ethanol industrys economic impact in recent years, the revenues have numbered more than $3 billion. The Indiana State Department of Agriculture cited that report from the ICMC, saying the industry has positively served Indianas farmers.

Rural Voices USA, a nonprofit working to represent the voices of rural Americans in policy debates, applauded the Governor for his veto.

This was a bill that was bad for ethanol and bad for Indiana farmers, said the organizations Board President Chris Gibbs. Governor Holcomb stood up for Indiana farmers and fought back against Big Oil.

One of the bills authors said that he supported the bill because he wanted to bring additional clarity to the public. Still, Sen. Lonnie Randolph, D-East Chicago, said he is okay with Holcombs veto decision if the governor feels there already is sufficient notification.

Another of the authors said he felt Holcombs decision was unfortunate because there was a lack of engagement from the Governors Office throughout the session. Sen. Andy Zay, R-Huntington, said Holcombs concerns could have been addressed with a simple amendment, adding that he thinks the bigger issue in the bill was making E15 available year round.

Until two years ago, E15 was banned from being available in the summertime over concerns about smog pollution. But the Trump administrations EPA lifted those restrictions in 2019, making E15 blends able to be sold in gas stations all year.

In his letter, Holcomb said that he supports the provision in SB 303 that makes clear E15 can be sold in Indiana year-round. He encouraged the Indiana General Assembly to codify that next year, as it would support our ethanol industry and would further grow the market for our Hoosier farmers.

This is only the second bill that Holcomb has vetoed this session, signing more than 200 other pieces of legislation thus far. The other bill is one that aims to rein in his emergency powers, which Holcomb had promised early in the session he would nix because he believes it is unconstitutional.

House bill 1123 came about after a year of pushback from the more conservative members of Holcombs own party on the governors executive orders on masks and business restrictions during the time of the pandemic.

Legislators overrode Holcombs veto and he is now suing over the measure.

Zay said he is not sure if Holcombs veto of SB 303 will warrant and override or if it is something that the legislature will address next year.
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Guwahati, May 3 (UNI) In the final results of the Assam Assembly elections 2021, the BJP led NDA won 75 seats out of the 126 assembly seats while Congress-led Grand Alliance managed to win 50 seats.

BJP won 60 seats and Congress was able to garner 29 seats as announced by the Election Commission of India (ECI).

BJPs alliance partners Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) won 9 seats and United Peoples Party Liberal (UPPL) won 6 seats.

The Congress-led Grand Alliance partners, All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) won 16 seats, Bodoland Peoples Party (BPF) 4 seats and Communist Party of India (Marxist) won 1 seat.

The jailed activist and president of newly-floated Raijor Dal Akhil Gogoi has won the election from Sibsagar seat.

However, newly-floated another political party and Raijor Dals partner Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP) failed to open its account.

According to the ECI website, in this election, BJPs vote share increased to 33.21% while Congress vote share was 29.7%.

The vote shares of other parties are AGP  7.91%, AIUDF  9.29% and others  13.7%.

Meanwhile, Assam Congress president and Rajya Sabha Member Ripun Bora has resigned as the state party president taking responsibility for the partys defeat in the Assam Assembly election.

Ripun Bora himself failed to win the Gohpur Assembly seat and was defeated by BJP candidate Utpal Bora.

Luronjyoti Gogoi, the president of Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP) and former All Assam Students Union (AASU) general secretary, lost the poll battle from both Naharkatia and Duliajan seats.

BPFs all three ministers in the BJP-led coalition government, Pramila Rani Brahma, Chandan Brahma and Rihon Daimary failed to come out victorious in the Assam Assembly election.

UNI ABI RN
3rd May 2021 - Release Date Announced

15th March 2019 - James Gunn Returning to Direct

Redemption and second chances have long been superhero movie staples, and today it looks like life has imitated art. Ive learned that Disney has reinstated James Gunn as the writer-director of Guardians of the Galaxy 3, and Ive confirmed it with Marvel and Gunns camp.



After the firing, Walt Disney Studios chairman Alan Horn met with Gunn on multiple occasions to discuss the situation. Persuaded by Gunns public apology and his handling of the situation after, Horn decided to reverse course and reinstate Gunn.



Source: Read More on Deadline Redemption and second chances have long been superhero movie staples, and today it looks like life has imitated art. Ive learned that Disney has reinstated James Gunn as the writer-director of Guardians of the Galaxy 3, and Ive confirmed it with Marvel and Gunns camp.After the firing, Walt Disney Studios chairman Alan Horn met with Gunn on multiple occasions to discuss the situation. Persuaded by Gunns public apology and his handling of the situation after, Horn decided to reverse course and reinstate Gunn.





Source: The Hollywood Reporter In the weeks after firing Gunn, there was speculation around town about who could replace the filmmaker, with agents lining up clients but by mid-fall, any perceived search seemed to have petered out, with many thinking that the project was on the back burner. What almost no one knew was that Marvel and Disney had never undertaken a search and had gone back to Gunn and made a deal ... in secret, according to insiders.

More details: @JamesGunn will do both THE SUICIDE SQUAD...and #guardiansofthegalaxy 3. SQUAD will go first, to shoot late fall of this year. Guardians 3 would follow.  Borys Kit (@Borys_Kit) March 15, 2019

We are groot  Karen Gillan (@karengillan) March 15, 2019

27 February 2019 - Kevin Feige Gives Update; Confirms James Gunn's Script Is Being Used

I mean, when it was pushed back, it was pushed back. Meaning the release date, because its not coming outalthough weve never announced a release date actually, but it was gonna happen sooner rather than later, initially of course. Outside of knowing that were gonna use [James Gunns] draft, [we have] been focusing on other projects.



Source: Collider I mean, when it was pushed back, it was pushed back. Meaning the release date, because its not coming outalthough weve never announced a release date actually, but it was gonna happen sooner rather than later, initially of course. Outside of knowing that were gonna use [James Gunns] draft, [we have] been focusing on other projects.

2nd September 2018 - Dave Bautista Might Not Return

24th August 2018 - Production Halted

The production of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 is being put on hold for the time being as Marvel and Disney regroup on the project, sources tell The Hollywood Reporter.



Sources say that crew members, at this stage a small group that was prepping for pre-production, are being dismissed and are free to look for new work. The project was crewing up and was to have gone into full pre-production mode in the fall.



Source: Read More on The Hollywood Reporter The production of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 is being put on hold for the time being as Marvel and Disney regroup on the project, sources tell The Hollywood Reporter.Sources say that crew members, at this stage a small group that was prepping for pre-production, are being dismissed and are free to look for new work. The project was crewing up and was to have gone into full pre-production mode in the fall.

20th July 2018 - James Gunn Makes Statement

My words of nearly a decade ago were, at the time, totally failed and unfortunate efforts to be provocative. I have regretted them for many years since  not just because they were stupid, not at all funny, wildly insensitive, and certainly not provocative like I had hoped, but also because they dont reflect the person I am today or have been for some time.



Regardless of how much time has passed, I understand and accept the business decisions taken today. Even these many years later, I take full responsibility for the way I conducted myself then. All I can do now, beyond offering my sincere and heartfelt regret, is to be the best human being I can be: accepting, understanding, committed to equality, and far more thoughtful about my public statements and my obligations to our public discourse. To everyone inside my industry and beyond, I again offer my deepest apologies. Love to all.



Source: Deadline My words of nearly a decade ago were, at the time, totally failed and unfortunate efforts to be provocative. I have regretted them for many years since  not just because they were stupid, not at all funny, wildly insensitive, and certainly not provocative like I had hoped, but also because they dont reflect the person I am today or have been for some time.Regardless of how much time has passed, I understand and accept the business decisions taken today. Even these many years later, I take full responsibility for the way I conducted myself then. All I can do now, beyond offering my sincere and heartfelt regret, is to be the best human being I can be: accepting, understanding, committed to equality, and far more thoughtful about my public statements and my obligations to our public discourse. To everyone inside my industry and beyond, I again offer my deepest apologies. Love to all.

20th July 2018 - Disney Severs Ties With James Gunn; Fired As Director

James Gunn is exiting Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3.



The move comes after conservative personalities resurfaced old tweets in which the filmmaker joked about controversial topics such as pedophelia and rape. Gunn, who has been an outspoken critic of President Donald Trump, has since deleted his Twitter account.



"The offensive attitudes and statements discovered on James Twitter feed are indefensible and inconsistent with our studios values, and we have severed our business relationship with him," said Walt Disney Studios chairman Alan Horn in a statement.



Gunn tweeted, "Many people who have followed my career know when I started, I viewed myself as a provocateur, making movies and telling jokes that were outrageous and taboo. As I have discussed publicly many times, as Ive developed as a person, so has my work and my humor."



Source: The Hollywood Reporter James Gunn is exiting Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3.The move comes after conservative personalities resurfaced old tweets in which the filmmaker joked about controversial topics such as pedophelia and rape. Gunn, who has been an outspoken critic of President Donald Trump, has since deleted his Twitter account."The offensive attitudes and statements discovered on James Twitter feed are indefensible and inconsistent with our studios values, and we have severed our business relationship with him," said Walt Disney Studios chairman Alan Horn in a statement.Gunn tweeted, "Many people who have followed my career know when I started, I viewed myself as a provocateur, making movies and telling jokes that were outrageous and taboo. As I have discussed publicly many times, as Ive developed as a person, so has my work and my humor."





Source: Read More on Deadline BREAKING: James Gunn has been removed as director of the Guardians Of The Galaxy series after a batch of old social media dispatches were unearthed that touched on areas like pedophilia and rape.

25th June 2018 - Draft Completed; Pre-Production to Start Soon

Every bit of my heart. pic.twitter.com/hSxnbLpdn6  James Gunn (@JamesGunn) June 25, 2018



[Writer/director] James [Gunn] has delivered a draft and we begin official pre-production on that very, very soon. Itll be shooting early next year. Captain Marvel finishes in about two weeks, Spider-Man starts in about two weeks, and then Guardians 3 will start early next year.



Source: Collider [Writer/director] James [Gunn] has delivered a draft and we begin official pre-production on that very, very soon. Itll be shooting early next year. Captain Marvel finishes in about two weeks, Spider-Man starts in about two weeks, and then Guardians 3 will start early next year.

9th May 2018 - Set After Avengers 4

-Adam Warlock will NOT be in Avengers 4 (and I've never said he will be in Vol. 3).

-GotG Vol. 3 will be set AFTER Avengers 4.

-No, I will not give any hints on the Easter Eggs.

-Yes, all of the Guardians now understand Groot, as in IW.  James Gunn (@JamesGunn) May 9, 2018

23rd August 2017 - Will Set Up 10, 20 Years of Marvel Movies

One of the things Im doing with creating Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3  it will take place after the next two Avengers movies, and it will help to set up the next 10, 20 years of Marvel movies, said Gunn. Its going to really expand the cosmic universe. Were going to be setting up new characters.



But the director ended with a word of warning for fans of Peter Quill, Gamora, Drax, Groot, and Rocket.



It will be the last movie of this version of Guardians of the Galaxy, said Gunn.



Source: Entertainment Weekly One of the things Im doing with creating Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3  it will take place after the next two Avengers movies, and it will help to set up the next 10, 20 years of Marvel movies, said Gunn. Its going to really expand the cosmic universe. Were going to be setting up new characters.But the director ended with a word of warning for fans of Peter Quill, Gamora, Drax, Groot, and Rocket.It will be the last movie of this version of Guardians of the Galaxy, said Gunn.

21st April 2017 - Adam Warlock Likely to be Introduced

In another interview at the junket today, Marvel Studios head Kevin Feige told me that Gunn is developing Adam Warlock to be included in a future Marvel cosmic universe film. When I mentioned this to Gunn, he was also quick to point out that Feiges reason for clarifying that he is working on the character is because people are going to think its about Infinity War. And Gunn makes it clear that this is not the case:



Hes not. Hes not in Infinity War. But he will be a part of the future Marvel cosmic universe and a pretty important part of that.



While neither Feige or Gunn have outright said that Gunn is developing Adam Warlock for Guardians of the Galaxy 3, its a safe assumption since he announced he would be directing the film earlier this week. Feige also implied as much, telling me If he appears anywhere in the future, itll be in Guardians.



Source: SlashFilm In another interview at the junket today, Marvel Studios head Kevin Feige told me that Gunn is developing Adam Warlock to be included in a future Marvel cosmic universe film. When I mentioned this to Gunn, he was also quick to point out that Feiges reason for clarifying that he is working on the character is because people are going to think its about Infinity War. And Gunn makes it clear that this is not the case:Hes not. Hes not in Infinity War. But he will be a part of the future Marvel cosmic universe and a pretty important part of that.While neither Feige or Gunn have outright said that Gunn is developing Adam Warlock for Guardians of the Galaxy 3, its a safe assumption since he announced he would be directing the film earlier this week. Feige also implied as much, telling me If he appears anywhere in the future, itll be in Guardians.

17th April 2017 - James Gunn Returning to Write and Direct

Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol 3 will be released on May 5, 2023.
Hundreds of fans invaded the stadium ahead of the behind-closed-doors Premier League contest against Liverpool.

Manchester United fans protesting against the club's ownership took to the Old Trafford pitch. Hundreds of fans invaded the stadium ahead of the behind-closed-doors Premier League contest against arch-rivals Liverpool. United supporters were expressing their anger following plans backed by the Glazer family to join a proposed European Super League, which collapsed soon after.

The plans added to years of discontent and protests from supporters following the controversial takeover by the Glazers in 2005.

Fans have campaigned for the owners to sell the club (Barrington Coombs/PA)

Outside the ground, large numbers of supporters were also protesting.
London, 3 May 2021 (SPS) - British Minister of State for the Middle East and North Africa, James Cleverly, recently reiterated the UK's support for UN-led efforts to achieve a just and lasting political solution that provides for the self-determination of the Sahrawi people.



"The UK fully supports the UN-led efforts, as clearly set out in UN Security Council Resolution 2548, to achieve a just, lasting and mutually acceptable political solution (...) which provides for the self-determination of the people of Western Sahara in accordance with the principles and objectives of the UN Charter", the Minister of State replied to a question from Labour MP Rachel Hopkins



James Cleverly, was responding to a question about what discussions he had on the issue of self-determination referendum at the last Security Council meeting on Western Sahara.



"We strongly support the efforts of the UN Secretary General to appoint a personal envoy as soon as possible so that consultations between the parties can resume," he added. (SPS)



062/090/T
STAMFORD  To kick off Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week at Northeast Elementary School, families were invited to participate in the tradition of Chalk the Walk, writing thank you messages in sidewalk chalk outside the school on Saturday and Sunday.
New Delhi, May 3 (UNI) Ahead of the May 8 India-EU virtual summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen and discussed the prevailing COVID-19 situation in India and the EU and strengthening the strategic partnership between the two sides.

Prime Minister Modi expressed his appreciation of the EU and its member nations for mobilizing quick support for Indias fight against the second wave of COVID-19.

"Good call with Prime Minister @narendramodi in preparation of the EU-India Summit: Team Europe stands in deep solidarity with our democratic partner India. We are providing rapid support and are delivering assistance to fight COVID19, " said von der Leyen in a tweet.

Modi was to go to Porto, Portugal, for the summit, but cancelled the visit due the worsening Covid situation in the country.

This weekend's India-EU Leaders Meeting will be the first meeting in the EU+27 format.

The meeting reflects the shared ambition of both sides for further strengthening the India-EU Strategic Partnership, said the Prime Minister's Office.

During the phone call, the two leaders agreed that India-EU Strategic Partnership was witnessing a renewed momentum since the last Summit in July.

Both leaders noted that the upcoming meeting is an important opportunity to provide renewed momentum to the already multi-faceted India-EU relationship.

"There is clear momentum to strengthen our strategic relations on trade, digital, climate change and multilateralism," said the Commission president.



"I'm encouraged by the prospect of intensifying our trade & investment relations.



This would tap into a huge potential to the benefit of our businesses & citizens," she added.

The meeting could see progress on a free trade agreement and treaties on investment protection and Geographical Indications.

UNI SRJ SHK1631
Milton, PA (17847)

Today

Partly cloudy with afternoon showers or thunderstorms. High 86F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 60%..

Tonight

Variable clouds with showers and scattered thunderstorms. Storms more numerous this evening. Low near 65F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%.
Fire in I&FC office in Srinagar damages record, other documents, vehicles 09 Jun 2021 | 2:39 PM Srinagar, Jun 9 (UNI) Devastating fire in Irrigation and Flood Control (I&FC) office in Srinagar on Wednesday damaged computers, record and other documents besides two condemned vehicles. see more..

Cong slams BJP over Cabinet meeting differences 09 Jun 2021 | 2:11 PM Bhopal, June 9 (UNI) Madhya Pradeshs opposition Congress lost no time on Wednesday in capitalising on a perceived political opportunity spawned by press reports regarding some ministers opposing certain proposals during Tuesdays Cabinet meeting.

The saffron camps internal feuds stand exposed. The gathering witnessed a dispute with Dr Mishra who is prepared to go to any extent for assuming the Chief Ministers position. The politician was humiliated during the meeting, the Congress conveyed via social media. see more..

Joggers, morning walkers out though paid parks remain shut in Srinagar 09 Jun 2021 | 1:56 PM Srinagar, Jun 9 (UNI) Morning walkers and joggers are again out on streets in summer capital, Srinagar, where paid parks, including Iqbal Park, which remained flooded with people in the morning and evening hours before the second wave of COVID-19, continued to wear a deserted look. see more..

Hijack threat: Security beefed up at MP airports 09 Jun 2021 | 1:32 PM Bhopal, June 9 (UNI) Security has been enhanced at the Madhya Pradesh capitals Raja Bhoj Airport and Indores Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport after a Shajapur District-resident youth called up the former place and issued a threat that planes would be hijacked and taken to a neighbouring country.

Police action commenced after the Airport management lodged a complaint late Tuesday and call tracing nailed the culprit who is being quizzed by law-enforcement authorities subsequent to being taken into custody. A senior police officer revealed that the threat appears to be an empty one. see more..
As restaurants continue to struggle to hire employees, McDonalds has been offering higher wages and other perks as incentives.

Signs outside McDonalds drive-thrus in Wilkes-Barre, Plains Twp., Dunmore and other locations advertise smiling faces wanted at a starting wage rate of $17 an hour.

Pat Stella, who owns nine McDonalds locations in Northeast Pennsylvania, said this is the starting wage rate for department managers.

Day shift employees at her restaurants are being paid a starting wage of $12 an hour. Employees who open or close the restaurants start at $13 an hour and maintenance workers start at $14 an hour, Stella said.

McDonalds has been paying higher wages as staffing shortages continue and as Gov. Tom Wolf has been pushing to raise the minimum wage to $12 an hour with a pathway to $15 an hour by 2027.

In addition to higher wages, the help wanted signs at the McDonalds restaurants Stella owns also advertise a variety of other benefits for employees.

These perks include flexible schedules, free food every shift, a 30% off family discount, scholarship opportunities, leadership and growth opportunities, free online high school diplomas, free English as a second language classes, discounts to a variety of company, paid time off, raises once a year and tuition reimbursement up to $3,000 a year.

As another perk, employees who have perfect attendance during their bi-weekly pay period can receive $1 more an hour, Stella said.

Stella said its important for her to pay employees higher wages because they are the heart of our business.

Despite paying higher wages, she said price increases for customers at McDonalds have been minimal and the restaurants still charge $1 for any size soft drink.

In addition to McDonalds restaurants on East Northampton Street in Wilkes-Barre, Plains Twp. and Dunmore, Stella also owns locations on Kidder Street in Wilkes-Barre, Edwardsville, Luzerne, Pittston Twp., Hamlin and Lake Harmony.

Stella said McDonalds needs to hire more workers as it gears up for summer and gets ready to open for indoor dining. She doesnt know yet when dining rooms will open again.

A struggle to hire

Hiring workers has been a challenge for fast food chains throughout Northeast Pennsylvania as well as small business owners.

Grotto Pizza in Edwardsville recently announced it would close Tuesdays because of a staffing shortage.

The Avenue Restaurant in Wyoming announced it would close early on Tuesday because there was not enough staff to open.

Hiring struggles also recently delayed Burger King from opening its drive-thru at its new location on Wilkes-Barre Twp. Blvd.

Joe Steininger, director of operations for the new Burger King and other local locations, declined to say employees starting wage but he said its above minimum wage and it varies based on a persons experience and what shifts they work.

Several help wanted ads could be found online for Burger King locations throughout Northeast Pennsylvania as well as other fast food chains.

In the meantime, debate has ensued about the reasons for the labor shortage.

Some business owners have said that unemployment benefits and stimulus checks have been a catalyst for people to stay home.

Gov. Wolf, however, has said if employers want their staff to come back, pay them more.

The minimum wage in Pennsylvania has been stuck at $7.25 an hour since 2009 and Wolf said it is far from a livable wage.

Pennsylvanians deserve better, Wolf recently posted on his Facebook page. Tell your legislators its time to raise the minimum wage.

Last week, Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry Acting Secretary Jennifer Berrier called for an increase to Pennsylvanias minimum wage to $15 per hour to benefit women of and persons of color.

It is long past time to raise Pennsylvanias minimum wage and pay every worker a living wage, Berrier said.

Fighting $15

Some fast food chain parent companies have opposed raising the minimum wage to $15 an hour.

They include Inspire Brands, which owns Arbys, Buffalo Wild Wings, Dunkin, Sonic and Jimmy Johns. The company lobbied to exclude a $15 minimum wage from President Joe Bidens recent COVID-19 relief bill.

Mexican restaurant chain Chipotle chief financial officer Jack Hartung recently said on a quarterly earnings call that Chipotle executives would need to raise menu prices if the government mandated a $15 per hour minimum wage.

Chipotle, which has locations in Wilkes-Barre Twp. and Dickson City, employs nearly 90,000 people at its restaurants.

The National Restaurant Association, which represents restaurants around the country, has been a staunch opponent of federal efforts to raise the minimum wage to $15 an hour and lobbied against the Raise the Wage Act.

Officials at the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Association recognize the need to update the minimum wage and have expressed an interest in working with state and federal legislators on a modernized package, said John Longstreet, president and CEO of the association.

Longstreet said they want to ensure that any package considered doesnt have the unintended consequences of hurting tipped employees, however, he said.

When the tipped wage was dramatically increased or eliminated in Maine and Washington D.C., he said tipped employees successfully petitioned to return to the tipped wage upon losing a significant amount of income in lost tips.

Moderate legislators of both parties at both the state and local levels have proposed reasonable, gradual increases that protect the tipped wage and are less likely to eliminate jobs than extreme proposals, Longstreet said. Common ground can be found and we look forward to working with them on these proposals.

Paying more

As restaurants continue to try to attract workers, retail giant Walmart also has been hiring and advertising job openings in the area.

Walmart pays workers a starting wage of $11 an hour but that can vary by market, position and other factors, said Charles Crowson, location communications director for Walmart in the Northern U.S.

Walmarts average hourly wage in the U.S., however, exceeds $15, he said.

In February, Walmart announced raises for 425,000 digital and stocking associates across the U.S. and Crowson said these are the retailers two fastest growing roles.

The starting wages for digital and stocking associates at Walmart now range between $13 to $19 an hour, he said.

Crowson said the average wage for Walmarts hourly workforce in the U.S. is at least $15.25 an hour.

We will continue to invest in our associates to help them gain experience, reach their goals and build careers at Walmart, he said.


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Hazleton, PA (18201)

Today

Cloudy early, then thunderstorms developing this afternoon. High 82F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%..

Tonight

Chance of an isolated thunderstorm early, then variable clouds overnight with more showers at times. Low 63F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%.
UW Literacy Research Center and Clinic Appoints New Executive Director

Amy Spiker

Amy Spiker has been selected as the new executive director of the University of Wyoming Literacy Research Center and Clinic (LRCC). She will assume this new role July 1 and is scheduled to serve for four years.

Spiker, a senior lecturer in the UW School of Teacher Education, will replace Dana Robertson, who decided to step down from the position last December after nearly six years leading the center.

Serving as the executive director of the LRCC combines my experiences and passion for literacy instruction and teacher support with a clear focus on supporting K-12 literacy education in Wyoming, Spiker says. I will work with, and learn from, the amazing educators we have in our state to collaboratively create successful literacy education for all students.

As executive director, Spiker will work with partners at UW, the states public schools, government organizations and policymakers to carry out the LRCCs strategic plan. This work focuses on supporting K-12 students in literacy growth through support in the clinic; empowering current K-12 teachers through professional development; and designing and conducting research to support the advancement of literacy practices.

Dr. Spiker brings a wealth of experience to her new role as LRCC director. She is deeply interested in current literacy research and best practices, and she shows that passion in her efforts for UW and the state, says Andrea Burrows, associate dean for undergraduate programs and professor in the College of Education, who chaired the search committee. We are fortunate that she is taking on this new responsibility and plans to continue positioning the LRCC as the leader in literacy education research and outreach experiences.

Spiker has been a longtime member of the UW family, having earned her Bachelor of Arts in elementary education at UW in 1989. She went on to earn her masters degree in teaching and learning with a literacy emphasis in 2004, and her Doctor of Education in curriculum and instruction in 2013.

Her professional role at UW began in 2007, and she has served as an instructor in the School of Teacher Education since. Spiker is a regarded scholar and researcher, who also has served in various leadership roles at UW, including elementary education program coordinator, associate department head of elementary and early childhood, and assistant director of the School of Teacher Education.

Spiker has received numerous honors and awards during her tenure at UW, including the 2020-21 Faculty Fellow of Distance Courses by Academic Affairs; the Ellbogen Meritorious Teaching Award; the Faculty Award for Outstanding Teaching; the Mortar Board Top Prof Award; and the UW Women of Distinction Award. In 2019, Spiker earned her national board certification in teaching literacy.

I am honored to be part of literacy and literacy education in Wyoming during this current era, she says. As a state, we are studying the body of research that helps us understand how students learn to read and write, and are working to best translate this body of research into classroom practice. I hope to support and empower teachers to make the changes that will best meet K-12 student needs in our state.

Collaboration has been instrumental to the success of the outreach projects the LRCC has undertaken during Robertsons tenure. These projects include conducting school-based literacy needs assessments; establishing long-term professional development partnerships in schools and other centers; supporting the revitalization of Northern Arapaho language and culture; supporting the early literacy expertise of birth-5 educators; developing self-paced literacy professional development modules for school administrators; and designing Alexa skills focused on understanding dyslexia.

My time as executive director has been a tremendous opportunity that both shaped who I am as an academic as well as influenced literacy teaching and learning statewide, Robertson says. Serving through an outreach mission has solidified in me the importance of building relationships with partners and the importance of collaboration.
Frankfort, KY (40601)

Today

Rain this morning. Scattered thunderstorms for the afternoon. High 81F. Winds S at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 70%..

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A new batch of vaccines produced by Pfizer BioNTech, consisting of 697,320 doses, arrives in the country on Tuesday, 4 May, the Communication Group of the National Steering Committee for Vaccination Activities against COVID-19 (CNCAV) announced on Monday.

The vaccines will be delivered by air and will arrive at the airports in Bucharest-Otopeni and Cluj-Napoca, agerpres.ro confirms.

Transport to storage centers is provided by the manufacturing company, including by land. The vaccines are transported in optimal conditions, in special containers, with carbonic ice and sealed foil, states the quoted source.

Thus, the vaccination process continues both in the centres in Bucharest and in the country. The doses will be distributed to the National Storage Centre in Bucharest and to the regional storage centres in the country.

So far, our country has received 5,122,709 doses of vaccine produced by Pfizer, and 4,279,531 have already been used to inoculate the population, according to a statement sent by the CNCAV Communication Group.
MEGHAN FORTUNATO is a News Reporter for The Vidette. She can be contacted at mefortu@ilstu.edu. Follow her on Twitter at | @Meghanfortunato

IF YOU SUPPORT THE VIDETTE MISSION of providing a training laboratory for Illinois State University student journalists to learn and sharpen viable, valuable and marketable skills in all phases of print and digital media, please consider contributing to this most important cause. Thank you.
The National News Agency (ANP) AGERPRES, the Romanian Union of Journalists (SRJ) MediaSind and the Faculty of Journalism and Communication Sciences (FJSC) within the University of Bucharest officially relaunched on Monday the "ReStart - for a quality journalism" project, a release by the three institutions reads.

The event, which is intended for students who want to get involved in promoting quality journalism, was relaunched on the occasion of World Press Freedom Day - May 3, agerpres.ro confirms.

The representatives of the three institutions concluded a Partnership Agreement in order to cooperate in this project, the document being signed by the managing director of ANP AGERPRES, Claudia Victoria Nicolae, by the dean of the Faculty of Journalism and Communication Sciences, Antonio Momoc, and by the president of the Romanian Journalists Union MediaSind, Cristi Godinac.

The "ReStart - for a quality journalism" project was launched on 3 May, 2016, by SRJ MediaSind, on the occasion of World Press Freedom Day, being inspired by the concept "The Ethical Journalism Initiative" promoted by the International Federation of Journalists.

During this period, the students were acquainted by AGERPRES and MediaSind professionals with the principles of the journalism profession and with the norms of the Journalist's Code of Ethics. The project was implemented in Danubius University Galati, Ovidius University of Constanta, University of Craiova, Aurel Vlaicu University of Arad, Free International University of Moldova - ULIM, University of European Studies of Moldova.

The project aims for students to get in touch with the demands of the journalistic profession, by actually participating in editorial activities, by writing news or taking photos or videos, being guided by professionals from AGERPRES and MediaSind, the statement said.

Students who will be selected to participate in the project will receive press releases, will have concluded AGERPRES volunteer contracts, and the best articles, photos or videos will be posted on the websites www.agerpres.ro, www.mediasind. red and / or national / international partners and on the websites of the participating universities, thus being promoted in the press.

Universities and media outlets wishing to join the project can contact SRJ at restart@mediasind.ro.

The first event of the new partnership will be organized on 10 May, 2021 together with FJSC students and professionals in the field, journalists and representatives of professional associations, during an online conference on press freedom in Romania after a year of pandemic, which will be hosted by the Faculty of Journalism and Communication Sciences.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MAE) welcomes the celebration of World Press Freedom Day and expresses its solidarity with all journalists and other media professionals who contribute to the correct and relevant information of public opinion, while condemning any arbitrary acts of violence against them, agerpres.ro confirms.

Thus, the MAE uses this opportunity to emphasize the essential place occupied by free and pluralistic media in the overall functioning of democratic and inclusive societies. Guaranteeing freedom of expression and information, freedom of the press, security and independence of journalists are principles to which Romania remains deeply attached, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement released on Monday.

In the context of intensifying intimidation and attacks on journalists and other media professionals in several states and regions around the world, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs expresses its solidarity with all those who contribute to the correct and relevant information of public opinion, while condemning all kinds of arbitrary acts of violence and repression directed against them.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs joins the international community in celebrating press freedom, in all its forms, traditional or digital, in defending the landmarks of independent and impartial journalism, and in combating the spread of hate speech and misinformation through the media.
The largest amount of vaccine from AstraZeneca, which consists of 643,200 doses, will arrive on Tuesday, 4 May, at the Cantacuzino National Institute for Medical-Military Research and Development, on Monday informed the Communication Group of the National Committee for the Coordination of Vaccination Activities against COVIV-19 (CNCAV).

The transport is ensured by the manufacturing company, and the doses of the vaccine will be brought to Bucharest by land, agerpres.ro confirms.

So far, our country has received 1,558,000 doses of vaccine produced by the pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca, and as of 15 February, 591,881 doses have already been used to immunize the population.

In the vaccination centres, both doses received by Romania in the current and previous instalments will be used, based on requests submitted to the National Centre and regional storage centres, through the county and Bucharest public health departments.

The source adds that in Romania the allocation of vaccine doses is carried out according to the delivery schedule made available by the producing company, meaning that, weekly, our country receives the vaccine amounts necessary to inoculate the population.
The threshold of two million fully vaccinated people in the national immunization campaign against COVID-19 was exceeded on Monday, according to the RO Vaccinare platform.

"Over 2,029,000 people fully vaccinated in Romania! Today we have exceeded the threshold of 2,000,000 people fully vaccinated in the national vaccination campaign against COVID-19. To date, more than 5,408,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccine have been administered in Romania. Together we will overcome the pandemic," reads the information published on the page of the National Information Platform on vaccination against COVID-19, agerpres.ro confirms.
Prime Minister Florin Citu is urging journalists, on Press Freedom Day, to continue to be partners in the effort to rightly inform the people and to make Romanians responsible to getting vaccinated in the largest number, agerpres.ro confirms.

"Please continue to be partners in this joint effort of correct information and responsibility of Romanians, to vaccinate themselves in the greatest number, in order to return to normality. I wish you to always remain free, on the side of truth and the public good, independent, to properly inform public opinion. Happy birthday to everyone who works in the media," the prime minister wrote on Facebook.

At the same time, the Prime Minister thanked the journalists for their work during the pandemic, adding that the work of the journalists is vital to combat all that fake-news means about COVID-19 and vaccination in the pandemic.

"On the day of freedom of the press, I thank the journalists for their work during the pandemic, in these difficult times for them, too. Verified and correct information about the effects of COVID-19 must reach the public in order to protect the health of citizens. And the journalists' fight for the truth is vital especially now, to combat all that fake-news means about COVID-19 and vaccination in the pandemic," Florin Citu said.
ST. LOUIS  To know Fred Kummer, a hospital builder and founder of the Adams Mark hotel chain, was to admire and loathe him  sometimes at the same time.

Kummer earned a reputation of being ironhanded with clients and employees alike; though those who knew him said he always wanted people to rise to their potential.

He was pretty transparent. It was not a secret: You knew where you stood with him at any time, said Wes Morgan, a former vice president of marketing for Kummers hospital development company HBE Corp.

Mr. Kummer died Friday. He was 92.

Born Frederick Strange Kummer Jr. in New York to a hotel engineer father and a homemaker mother, he grew up in the Hotel Wellington, four blocks from Central Park. He wanted to be an engineer like his father and studied at what is now Missouri University of Science and Technology.

Mr. Kummer worked for several construction companies before forming Kummer Construction Co. in the basement of his Crestwood home. By the 1960s, he started designing and building hospitals and nursing homes and changed the company name to Hospital Building and Equipment Corp., or HBE. He grew profits from $5,460.72 his first year in business to over $600 million in revenue, becoming one of the largest developers in the country.
The fisherman said that when he started toward the trash can, the person left, Uebing er said. The man said he then looked into the can and saw a large-sized black trash bag with the nude body of a baby girl inside, Uebinger said.

Uebinger declined to say whether the person acting suspiciously at the trash can was a man or a woman. Uebinger said the body was a 6- to 8-week-old baby and was ''fairly well-preserved.''

Dr. Mary Case, St. Charles County medical examiner, said from her home Wednesday night that she planned to perform an autopsy on the baby's body this morning. She said it might be up to a week before she completed an autopsy report.

FBI officials, as well as local and Illinois authorities, went to the site where the baby's body was found.

Deputies in St. Charles County asked for a copy of Heather's footprint shortly after the baby's body was discovered in West Alton; the town is in far northeastern St. Charles County, across the river from Alton.

On Wednesday afternoon, Alton police used a search warrant to seize medical records of the child, her mother and father.

Police refused to say whether they considered the parents suspects.
Mayor Tishaura Jones deserves sincere congratulations on her historic victory and inauguration as the new St. Louis mayor. She worked hard and, obviously, her policy agenda appealed to the voters in the city. That is, unfortunately, the problem.

It appears as if St. Louis voters have chosen to put their trust in pledges and fantasies that have no chance of accomplishing what they promised. Instead of improving the prosperity of its citizens and solving the citys manic crime problem, Jones far-left agenda seems sure to spiral the city deeper into the worst crime crisis in a generation while further setting back economically disadvantaged residents. Things are about to get much worse for a city already in deep distress.

We shouldnt pretend that Jones is about to wreck a great situation. The picture in the city already isnt pretty. Just looking at population changes in the region over the last few years underscores the problem. After peaking at more than 800,000 residents in the middle of the last century, the population is in serious decline and now appears to be heading toward new lows, especially when compared to its better-governed neighbors.
In March, 2021 a Russian Tu-22M3 bomber was undergoing ground checks and the ejection seats for three of the four crew unexpectedly ejected three air force personnel on board killing them. This happened when the engines were started, as part of a ground test. The ejection seats were not supposed to work that way. The only survivor was the bomber regiment commander, who was in the pilots seat, the one seat that does not automatically activate in an emergency. The pilot has to activate his ejection seat manually because it is assumed the aircraft commander would order a crew bailout and then get out himself when it was clear the aircraft could not be saved.

While ejection seat problems are rare, damaging failures and accidents with the Tu-22 are not. This latest problem makes four major mishaps or crashes of Tu-22s since 2017. Only about ten percent off the 497 Tu-22s built between 1967 and 1997 are still in service and many are grounded for required maintenance. The problem with the Tu-22 is that most were built in the 1980s. after the first ones entered service in 1980. The Tu-22 had plenty of problems during the eleven years after a prototype made its first flight. Development had been underway since the early 1970s. Efforts to upgrade up to 20 percent of the younger Tu-22s ran into lots of problems and delays, and the latest fatal failure of the ejection seat system is but one of many problems with aging tech in the Tu-22s still flyable.

The Tu-22 is the most recent Russian heavy bomber that was produced in large numbers. In 1987 the larger (275 ton), faster Tu-160 was introduced but only 28 production models were completed, some of them after 1991 using unfinished aircraft that were stored when regular production was halted after 1992. Production resumed but at the rate one new Tu-160 every few years. Russia only has 18 Tu-160s in service and about ten new ones on order. Meanwhile Russia is trying to muster the cash and capabilities to design and build a new heavy bomber similar to the American B-2. Given continued problems with shrinking military budgets and keeping the Tu-22s flying a new aircraft is unlikely.

The latest Tu-22 accident is still being investigated. The Tu-22 ejection seats are a Cold War era design and apparently not updated to modern standards. Western warplanes have ejection seats with zero-zero capability. That means the seats can be used when the aircraft is on the ground (zero altitude) and not moving (zero speed). Older ejection seats, if used in zero-zero conditions, will not eject occupants high enough for an emergency parachute to deploy and prevent the seat and its occupant, with a combined weight of over two hundred kilograms (440 pounds) from a fatal crashing. The Tu-22 ejection seats are not supposed to work unless the aircraft is moving at a minimum speed of about 125 kilometers an hour. This made the seats useful for ejection during a takeoff that ran into problems.

Russian safety systems for military equipment have always lagged behind the West, and this gap has increased since the Cold War ended in 1991. After that the Russian military budget suffered major reductions throughout the 1990s. This was compounded by generals and admirals trying to keep more high-tech equipment, like bombers, fighters and nuclear subs, in service than the budget could support. In the 1990s the Russian (Soviet Union) armed forces lost 80 percent of its manpower and too many of the most able officers got out for better paying jobs in the new free-market economy, or took advantage of the post-1991 freedom to emigrate. Soviet era defense industries also shrank and those that remained lost many of their best technical people and managers. There was no money for new technology or even maintaining Cold War era stuff. The military high command was unable to cope with all this and much-delayed reforms were imposed on the military from above after 2008.

After the reforms began the air force retired most Tu-22s and tried to implement to upgrade and refurbish about a hundred of the more recently built (since the late 1980s) Tu-22s. That program was scaled back several times because of a shortage of money and heavy use of Tu-22s in Syria after Russian forces entered the civil war there in 2015. All that led to more and more problems with Tu-22s and more were withdrawn from service. The latest ejection seat accident is particularly demoralizing for Tu-22 crews.

The Tu-22 is a 1970s design. It's a 126-ton, twin-engine, swing-wing aircraft with a crew of four including two pilots, a bombardier and a defensive systems operator. Originally it had a 23mm cannon mounted in a tail turret. It normally carries 12 tons of bombs and missiles (including cruise missiles) but can carry 24 tons over shorter distances. Max speed is 2,300 kilometers an hour and combat radius 2,400 kilometers on internal fuel. The Tu-22M was roughly equivalent to the 45-ton American FB-111. Russia wanted to have a new bomber design in service by 2030, to replace the aging but upgraded Tu-22M3Ms. That is not going to happen so the Tu-22M3Ms (the latest upgrade) must receive another refresh before it is retired. The new Russian stealth heavy bomber project is running into problems with its budget and doubts that the aircraft industry can develop the new aircraft on time and in adequate numbers.

Reliability and capability standards have always been critical in the design of ejection seats. Dealing with these problems is a matter of life-or-death and crew morale in general. Since World War II over 10,000 aircrew have successfully used ejection seats, mostly of Western manufacture. Very few have died in ejection seat related accidents but when that does happen it causes consternation among pilots and concern among ejection seat makers. Russian and Chinese made seats have proved to be nearly as reliable as the Western ones. But all ejection seats are vulnerable to age and poor maintenance, which has been found to be the most common cause of ejection seat fatalities. The current Russian accident was an example of that.

Ejection seats costs between $200,000-300,000. Most ejection seat systems (seat and components that remain in the aircraft) weigh up to half a ton and are complex bits of technology. There's a lot that can go wrong but rarely do you have accidents if the seats are maintained properly. Ejection seats became essential as military aircraft became so fast that a pilot could not safely climb out of the cockpit and jump. With the higher speed, there was the danger of hitting the tail. Also, escaping pilots were often injured or stunned and unable to get out quickly enough. Recent improvements include the Zero-Zero capability which is particularly useful for bombers as well as aircraft that operate off aircraft carriers.

The first ejection seat developed in Germany where the seats were first installed in the He 219 night-fighters during 1943. These used compressed air to propel the seat out of the aircraft. A year later rocket-propelled seats were installed in the He-162 jet fighter. By the end of the war, all of Germany's jets were equipped with rocket-propelled ejection seats. While the Swedish firm Saab had also developed a rocket-propelled ejection seat, it was British firm Martin-Baker that jumped in after World War II and created a design that quickly filled the needs of most Western air forces, including portions of the U.S. military.

The U.S. Air Force long insisted on using only American made ejection systems but the U.S. Navy stayed with Martin-Baker because the American ejection seat did not function as well at very low altitudes, where a lot of naval aviators have to eject during carrier operations. Martin-Baker supplies about two-thirds of the ejection seats for Western fighter aircraft. The other major supplier of ejection seats was the Soviet Union. Those Soviet era manufacturers continue to produce good ejection seats for Russian aircraft and some foreign customers. China is becoming a major player in this area, usually exporting Chinese made ejection seats in Chinese made aircraft. There are exceptions. The JF-17 is made in China for Pakistan and Pakistan preferred Martin-Baker to Chinese ejection seats.

The Czech Republic and Romania also manufacture lower end ejection seats. Western manufacturers produce about a thousand seats a year, while Russia and China produce less than half as many, almost all of those seats are for locally made aircraft and most are now coming from Chinese manufacturers.
Company Making Strong Progress on Development at Its Mont Sorcier Project in Quebec

TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / May 3, 2021 / Vanadium One Iron Corp. (the "Company") (TSXV:VONE), announces a proposed non-brokered private placement financing for aggregate gross proceeds to the Company of approximately $2,000,000 (the "Offering") of Flow-Through common share units (FT Units'). The FT Units are priced at $0.425. Each unit will consist of one common share in the capital of the Company plus one half of a common share purchase warrant. Each full warrant will entitle its holder to purchase one additional common share at an exercise price of $0.425 for a period of 2 years from the closing date of the private placement. There can be no assurance that the Offering will be completed, whether in whole or in part.

The Company has agreed to pay a cash finder's fee (the "Finder's Fee") in an amount equal to 6.0% of the gross proceeds of the Offering and that number of non-transferable compensation warrants (the "Compensation Warrants") equal to 6.0% of the number of Flow-Through Units offered, Each Warrant shall entitle the holder thereof to acquire one common share in the capital of the Issuer at a price of $0.425 for a period of 2 years following the Closing Date.

The Company will use the proceeds of the Offering to finance the Company's continuing expansion at its Mont Sorcier Vanadium Magnetite project near Chibougamau, Quebec.

Completion of the Offering is subject to certain conditions including, but not limited to, the receipt of all necessary approvals, including the approval of the Exchange and the securities regulatory authorities. All securities issued by the Company in connection with the Offering will be subject to a statutory four month hold period.

About Vanadium One Iron Corp.:

Vanadium One Iron Corp. is a mineral exploration and development company headquartered in Toronto, Canada. The Company is focused on advancing its Mont Sorcier, Vanadium-rich, Magnetite Iron Ore Project, in Chibougamau, Quebec.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF VANADIUM ONE IRON CORP.

Cliff Hale-Sanders, President & CEO

Tel: 416-819-8558

info@vanadiumone.com

www.vanadiumone.com

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements:

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.

This news release contains "forward-looking information" including statements with respect to the future exploration performance of the Company. This forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements of the Company, expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These risks, as well as others, are disclosed within the Company's filing on SEDAR, which investors are encouraged to review prior to any transaction involving the securities of the Company. Forward-looking information contained herein is provided as of the date of this news release and the Company disclaims any obligation, other than as required by law, to update any forward-looking information for any reason. There can be no assurance that forward-looking information will prove to be accurate and the reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking information.

SOURCE: Vanadium One Iron Corp.

View source version on accesswire.com:
CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Advanced Clinical, a global clinical research services organization, is pleased to announce that the companys global expansion into the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region continues with the opening of a new office in Singapore.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210502005013/en/

Advanced Clinical expands global presence to Singapore (Graphic: Business Wire)

Centrally located within the region, the new Singapore headquarters will function as the companys coordination center for APAC and will serve as a key locale in close proximity to prominent Key Opinion Leaders, research centers, and current and prospective biopharmaceutical clients located in the region.

Advanced Clinical will continue its Asia-Pacific expansion efforts in subsequent months with plans to add additional locations in Japan, Australia, South Korea, Taiwan, and China.

Asia-Pacific continues to be a hotbed for innovation in the life science industry, said Ivana Waller, Managing Director Europe and Senior Vice President, Global Development and Expansion. For these reasons, its strategically beneficial that Advanced Clinical establish a headquarters in the heart of one of the fastest-growing regions. We are very excited to be able to provide real-time, on-the-ground resources to our established clients and growing number of prospects who are developing cutting-edge treatments and need increased efficiencies.

By expanding throughout the APAC region, we continue to increase value to our current customers and the portfolio of global programs we have been entrusted to run, adds Julie Ross, president of Advanced Clinical. Our investment into the region coupled with the exceptional talent that have joined our team, enhances our differentiated and mid-market focused service offerings within the clinical research industry.

In addition to Singapore, Advanced Clinical has established European operations in Germany, Netherlands, United Kingdom, Spain, France, Italy, Romania, Poland and Ukraine. Its United States offices are headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, with locations also in Orlando, Florida and San Francisco, California.

About Advanced Clinical

Advanced Clinical is a privately-held, single owner, global clinical research services organization, providing full-service CRO, FSP and Strategic Resourcing solutions for biopharmaceutical and medical device organizations. Our company is committed to improving all lives touched by clinical research and we address the hopes of patients and healthcare professionals with industry-leading services and technology in life sciences. Visit our website to learn more about how we deliver a Better Clinical Experience: https://www.advancedclinical.com/

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210502005013/en/

Stephanie Swanson

Senior Director of Marketing

P: (312) 572-6000

sswanson@advancedclinical.com

Source: Advanced Clinical
Alife Health, a company that addresses infertility through artificial intelligence tools, raises $9.5 million seed led by Lux Capital.

SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- 1 in 8 families now struggle with infertility. Studies show that the average healthy couple has a 20 percent natural fertility rate per cycle, and miscarriages in women are increasing by about 1 percent each year. Additionally, Black and Latinx women are less likely to access fertility care and have a successful IVF pregnancy. As fertility continues to be in crisis, new artificial intelligence (AI) supported technology looks to promote health equity and better outcomes. Alife Health, a technology company founded in 2020, is building AI tools designed to improve fertility care, starting with in vitro fertilization (IVF). Alife Healths technology aims to empower clinical decision making with personalized treatment recommendations to help clinicians maximize a patients chances of success while lowering costs and barriers to access.

Today there are significant drawbacks to treating infertility. IVF is prohibitively expensive, often requires multiple cycles, is physically and emotionally onerous, and is still rarely covered by insurance. Successful pregnancies from IVF rely on a complex set of clinical decisions made by physicians to deliver the optimal care for each patient. Using advanced computational methods, Alife Health is building a modern operating system for IVF designed to improve reproductive outcomes at a time when 180 million people globally are struggling with infertility.

Alife Health announced today it has raised $9.5 million in Seed financing led by Lux Capital (with Partner Deena Shakir joining the Board) with participation from Amplo (Sheel Tyle), IA Ventures (Jesse Beyroutey), Springbank Collective as well as a number of angels including Anne Wojcicki (founder and CEO of 23andMe), Fred Moll (Founder of Intuitive Surgical and Auris), Amira Yahyaoui (Founder of Mos and Sequoia Scout), Arthur Patterson (founder of Accel), Dr. Tom Lee (Founder of One Medical Group and Galileo Health) and the founders of Ramp and Headway. Additionally, Alife Health has a number of notable advisors, including Tatyana Beldock (formerly new ventures at J&J) and Dr. Kim Thornton, a board-certified Reproductive Endocrinologist at Boston IVF and a Clinical Professor at Harvard Medical School. Alife Healths team includes engineers and scientists from Harvard, Stanford, MIT and Johns Hopkins and it has created a consortium of clinical partnerships with leading clinics and cutting edge physicians and researchers to bring clinical value to patients.

There are many aspects to IVF that can be improved through data-driven personalized medicine, says Paxton Maeder-York, founder and chief executive officer of Alife Health. From alleviating family planning pressure for working women to supporting family creation in the LGBTQ+ community, improving IVF has the potential to help parents realize their dreams of having a healthy child. Ive had several family members whove relied on IVF and know firsthand the societal impact improving infertility care can have.

Maeder-York started his career building surgical robots to fight lung cancer at Auris Health, which sold to Johnson & Johnson in 2019. He holds a bachelors degree in Biomedical Engineering, a masters degree in Data Science, and an MBA from Harvard University. Maeder-York founded Alife Health in 2020 to empower physicians and patients to make the best clinical decisions possible through advanced analytics delivered in an optimally designed, medical-grade software ecosystem.

Weve applied advanced machine learning in countless other medical imaging fields, but we are only just starting to scratch the surface on how it can be used to advance family and reproductive health. There is a tremendous opportunity for technology to transform the IVF experience and ultimately contribute to advancing human health and health equity. Alife Health is leading this effort with its unique, technology-forward, human-centered approach, said Deena Shakir, partner at Lux Capital. Paxton has assembled an all-star team of scientists, engineers and designers, and an incredibly respected group of scientific advisors and clinical partners to bring the benefit of this technology to patients, with inclusivity and equity at the core of the mission. I have spent a long time looking for the cutting edge technology that can improve fertility options, and I could not be more excited to back this breakthrough team.

There is increasing evidence that race and ethnicity may impact outcomes in fertility treatment, says Dr. Kim Thornton, a board-certified Reproductive Endocrinologist at Boston IVF and a Clinical Professor at Harvard Medical School, who has been appointed to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine Diversity, Equality and Inclusion Task Force. It is important to first acknowledge that differences exist and then explore, through the use of artificial intelligence, what those factors may be. What we learn will then allow us to address these specific factors so that we might begin to eliminate those disparities.

ABOUT LUX CAPITAL

Lux Capital is a venture capital firm founded in 2000 that invests in counter-conventional, early-stage emerging science and technology companies. With offices in New York City and Silicon Valley, Lux manages $2.4 billion in assets across multiple funds. For more information please visit www.luxcapital.com or follow us on Twitter @Lux_Capital.

ABOUT ALIFE HEALTH

Alife Health is a fertility technology company building a modern operating system for IVF. Founded with the mission of helping people have healthy children, it leverages cutting edge computational methods with the hopes of improving reproductive outcomes. Enhancing care with artificial intelligence, it is differentiated in its product approach, scientific rigor and access to data. The company has built a consortium of clinical partnerships with the largest clinics and most renowned physicians in the world to bring significant clinical value to patients. Founded by Paxton Maeder-York in 2020, the company is based in San Francisco and backed by top tier venture capital investors including Lux Capital.

www.alifehealth.com

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210503005288/en/

PRESS CONTACT

Jamie Gray, press@alifehealth.com

INVESTOR CONTACT

comms@luxcapital.com

Source: Alife Health
PARIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Kramer Levin is growing its Private Equity and Banking and Finance practices in Paris with the addition of five lawyers: partners Sebastien Pontillo and Sophie Perus, counsel Blandine Geny, and associates Lancelot Montmeterme and Brenda Ambele. Two additional associates will join them in the coming weeks.

Sebastien Pontillo and Sophie Perus have collaborated closely for several years, together serving clients such as Idinvest, Bpifrance, Perwyn and Zencap Asset Management.

The new team is part of Kramer Levins strategic plan to grow its Private Equity and Banking and Finance practices and deepen its Paris bench, which also includes partners Dana Anagnostou, Alexandre Omaggio, Hubert de Vauplane and Gilles Saint Marc, who have extensive experience in private equity and finance transactions.

Kramer Levins Paris office now comprises 55 lawyers, including 21 partners.

Sebastien Pontillo focuses on leveraged buyouts, growth capital and venture capital transactions. He advises private equity funds and management teams on international and domestic transactions. He also advises companies on complex international mergers and acquisitions, restructurings, and joint venture agreements. Mr. Pontillo has been a member of the Paris Bar since 2003 and is a graduate of ESCP Europe (Grande Ecole), of the Magistere de Droit des Activites Economiques and of the DESS Droit des Affaires et Fiscalite of the Universite Paris I Pantheon-Sorbonne. His team was distinguished as a rising team at the Trophees du Droit in 2020 in the M&A (mid-cap) category. Mr. Pontillo recently acted for Silverfleet Capital in its acquisition of a stake in OneStock, for Bpifrance in its leveraged buyout of BTP Consultants, for Renaissance Learning LLC (a portfolio company of Francisco Partners) in its acquisition of Lalilo, for EQT Capital Partners in its investment in Luko, and for Voodoo in its acquisition of Fabrika Games.

Sophie Perus focuses on banking and finance. She advises credit institutions and funds as well as companies in their domestic and international financing operations. Her practice focuses mainly on bank, bond (unitranche, senior, second lien, mezzanine) and structured financing but also covers asset and real estate financing. She also has extensive experience in debt restructuring and lease financing. Ms. Perus is recommended by Chambers Global, Chambers Europe and Legal 500 (Paris and EMEA). Her team was awarded the bronze trophy in banking and finance in the 2020 edition of the Palmares du Droit. Ms. Perus has been a member of the Paris Bar since 2001 and holds a postgraduate degree in business law and taxation from the University of Paris XI. She is also a graduate of EM Lyon. Ms. Perus recently advised Viseo in a unitranche financing transaction and represented Bpifrance and CIC Private Debt in providing financing in the context of the owner buyout of Laboratoires Delbert. She also advised Idinvest in connection with Motion Equity Partners acquisition of an equity stake in the Olmix Group.

Blandine Geny specializes in corporate, bank and bond financings, asset financings and real estate financings. Admitted to the Paris Bar in 2013, she holds a masters degree in business law from the University of Paris II Pantheon-Assas and a masters degree in international risk management from HEC Paris.

Lancelot Montmeterme, senior associate, advises on leveraged buyouts, growth capital and venture capital transactions, as well as on domestic and cross-border mergers and acquisitions and restructuring transactions. Admitted to the Paris Bar in 2014, Mr. Montmeterme holds a degree in business and tax law as well as banking and finance law from the University of Paris II Pantheon-Assas.

Brenda Ambeles practice focuses on mergers and acquisitions, private equity transactions, and corporate governance matters. She holds a masters degree in international corporate transactions and taxation from the University of Paris I Pantheon-Sorbonne. She also holds a degree in law, management, economics and corporate finance from the University of Paris I Pantheon-Sorbonne.

The team previously practiced at Eversheds Sutherland.

Private Equity and Banking and Finance are core practices at Kramer Levin that we have targeted for growth, said Kramer Levin Co-Managing Partners Howard T. Spilko and Paul H. Schoeman. The addition of this impressive group in Paris complements our New York practices in these areas and gives us added strength in European and cross-border transactions.

Dana Anagnostou and Renaud Dubois, co-managing partners of Kramer Levins Paris office, said, We are very pleased to welcome Sophie and Sebastien and their colleagues, all highly regarded lawyers who deepen our bench in the strategically important areas of private equity and finance, and who share our commitment to excellence in serving our clients.

Ms. Perus said, Kramer Levins Paris office provides an agile and collaborative structure, in synergy with the firm's U.S. offices, which is particularly attractive.

Mr. Pontillo added, There are clear synergies between our practices, which are reinforced by Kramer Levins proactive, pragmatic and creative culture, and which will benefit our clients.

The announcement that Kramer Levin is expanding its Private Equity practice in Paris comes a little over a year after the firm announced a similar expansion in New York. The firm hired Private Equity partners Colin Bumby and Adi Herman in January 2020 and March 2020, respectively.

About Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP

Kramer Levin provides clients with proactive, creative and pragmatic solutions to the most complex legal issues. The firm is headquartered in New York and has offices in Silicon Valley and Paris and fosters a strong culture of involvement in public and community service. For more information, visit www.kramerlevin.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210503005451/en/

Jennifer Manton

Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP

212-715-7612

jmanton@kramerlevin.com



Peter Pochna

Rubenstein for Kramer Levin

212-843-8007

ppochna@rubenstein.com

Source: Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP
Woburn, MA (01801)

Today

Cloudy early, then off and on rain showers for the afternoon. High around 90F. Winds NW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 30%..

Tonight

Partly cloudy. Low 61F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph.
TAMPA, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Oragenics, Inc. (NYSE American: OGEN) (Oragenics or the Company) announced that on May 2, 2021, Dr. Alan Joslyn resigned as Chief Executive Officer, President and director of Oragenics, Inc. to pursue other opportunities.

During the interim period before a new CEO is hired, the Board of Directors will provide direction to the Company, with Dr. Frederick Telling transitioning from Chairman of the Board to the newly established position of Executive Chairman, effective immediately. Mr. Sullivan, the Companys current Chief Financial Officer, will serve as the Companys interim principal executive officer to address the vacancy created by Dr. Joslyns resignation.

Speaking for the Board of Directors, Dr. Telling stated, The Company has in place a team of qualified and experienced vaccine development consultants engaged and working on our Terra CoV-2 vaccine product candidate and we are in the process of seeking a seasoned vaccine development executive to lead our vaccine program. Dr. Telling continued, Through Dr. Joslyns efforts the Company began the transition to vaccine development and closed several substantial financings to advance the development of our Terra CoV-2 vaccine and continue to fund the Companys operations, which has positioned the Company for future growth. I want to thank Dr. Joslyn for his efforts on behalf of the Company, and am confident he will be successful in his future endeavors.

About Oragenics, Inc.

Oragenics, Inc. is focused on the creation of the Terra CoV-2 vaccine candidate to combat the novel coronavirus pandemic and the further development of effective treatments for novel antibiotics against infectious diseases. The Company is dedicated to the development and commercialization of a vaccine candidate providing specific immunity from novel coronavirus. The Terra CoV-2 immunization leverages coronavirus spike protein research conducted by the National Institutes of Health. In addition, Oragenics has an exclusive worldwide channel collaboration with Eleszto Genetika, Inc. relating to the development of novel lantibiotics.

For more information about Oragenics, please visit www.oragenics.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210503005308/en/

Oragenics, Inc.

Michael Sullivan, Chief Financial Officer

813-286-7900

msullivan@oragenics.com

or

LHA Investor Relations

Kim Golodetz

212-838-3777

kgolodetz@lhai.com

Source: Oragenics, Inc.
(Reuters) - AEye Inc and a blank-check firm backed by financial services company Cantor Fitzgerald on Monday amended their merger agreement, valuing the lidar sensor maker at $1.52 billion, citing valuation changes of publicly traded lidar companies.

In February, AEye had agreed to go public through a merger with special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) CF Finance Acquisition Corp III, in a deal that valued the company at $2 billion.

The companies attributed the terms of the amended deal to "changing conditions" in the automotive lidar industry.

Lidar peers Ouster Inc and Peter Thiel-backed Luminar Technologies Inc, which also took the SPAC route to get publicly listed, have lost 10% and 22% of their value, respectively, since making their market debuts.

Founded in 2013 by former Lockheed Martin and NASA engineer Luis Dussan, AEye is one of several firms specializing in a relatively young technology that uses light-based sensors to generate a three-dimensional view of the road.

Blank-check firms, or SPACs, like CF III are shell companies that raise funds through an initial public offering to take a private company public.

Lidar sensors, which use laser light pulses to render precise images of the environment around the car, are seen as essential by many automakers to allow higher levels of driver assistance, right up to making them capable of self-driving.

(Reporting by Noor Zainab Hussain in Bengaluru; Editing by Ramakrishnan M.)
EDMONTON, Alberta, May 03, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- YMCA of Northern Alberta has launched the first ever YMCA 50/50, with proceeds supporting a range of health, fitness, recreational and social programs in a community near you. From May 1st- May 30th, Albertans have a chance to both play the odds and make a positive impact in their own lives and in those of their families, friends and neighbours. The YMCA is a charity and needs your support now, and with every online 50/50 ticket purchased, half of the total pot will help the Y make life-enhancing experiences more accessible to all people and strengthen your community.

For 114 years, YMCA of Northern Alberta has been proudly serving the communities of central and northern Alberta through health, fitness, and aquatic programs and services, premium child care, trusted day camps, various community programs and affordable housing. The YMCA is grateful for grant support from EPCORs Heart + Soul Fund to assist with the marketing, technological and operational expenses associated with launching this important fundraiser. With this 50/50, one lucky Albertan can win up to $10,000 and directly support every child, youth, family, newcomer, or some of our communitys most vulnerable people.

YMCA is thrilled to have EPCORs support as we launch our first 50/50, says Nick Parkinson, President and CEO, YMCA Northern Alberta. Through the Heart + Soul Fund, EPCORs generous support will help the YMCA with administration costs of running this exciting new fundraiser that provides another opportunity for Albertans to help us build strong and thriving communities.

YMCA of Northern Alberta is proud to be selected as a Heart + Soul Fund recipient in 2021. Having EPCORs support in launching a new fundraising initiative is very valuable at this time and will increase the success of the 50/50. Both organizations believe in strengthening the community and providing a lifeline to those in need and are excited about the impact of the funds raised from now until May 30, 2021 that will help build strong kids, healthy families and thriving communities.

The YMCA provides tremendous health, wellness and recreational programs and activities to people and families in communities across northern Alberta, said Stuart Lee, President and CEO, EPCOR. At EPCOR we understand the importance of supporting non-profit and charitable organizations at a time when their services are needed most. EPCORs Heart + Soul Fund was created in part to help organizations like the Y amplify their fundraising efforts, so they can continue providing an important lifeline to those hardest hit by COVID-19.

To purchase your YMCA 50/50 tickets and make a difference in your community, visit YMCAGiving5050.ca.

About YMCA of Northern Alberta YMCA of Northern Alberta is a registered charity dedicated to building healthy communities since 1907. From providing quality child care and supporting people in their health and wellness, to providing important community outreach programs, the YMCA of Northern Alberta works to strengthen communities in the Edmonton, Grande Prairie, Wood Buffalo and Red Deer regions. For more information, visit northernalberta.ymca.ca.

About EPCOR EPCOR, through its wholly owned subsidiaries, builds, owns and operates electrical, natural gas and water transmission and distribution networks, water and wastewater treatment facilities, sanitary and stormwater systems, and infrastructure in Canada and the United States. The Company also provides electricity, natural gas and water products and services to residential and commercial customers. EPCOR, headquartered in Edmonton, is an Alberta Top 75 employer.

Contact: Shamelle Pless YMCA of Northern Alberta 780-680-7562 Shamelle.Pless@northernalberta.ymca.ca

Source: YMCA of Northern Alberta
Hong Kong, Hong Kong--(Newsfile Corp. - May 3, 2021) - Queen's Road Capital Investment Ltd. (TSXV: QRC) (the "Company" or "Queen's Road Capital") is pleased to announce that it has entered into an agreement with Los Andes Copper Ltd. (TSXV: LA) ("Los Andes") whereby the Company will invest US$5,000,000 in Los Andes by way of convertible debenture.

The convertible debenture will have a 5-year term, carry an 8.0% coupon and will be convertible into Los Andes common shares at a share price of C$10.82, being a 30% premium to the 20-day volume weighted average share price of Los Andes on the TSX Venture Exchange. The interest is payable quarterly, 5.0% in cash and 3.0% in shares at the 20-day volume weighted average price prior to each interest payment date. Use of proceeds will be to complete the Vizcachitas pre-feasibility study.

Los Andes Copper Ltd. is a Canadian company focused on developing the Vizcachitas copper-molybdenum porphyry project in Chile. The company owns 100% of the Vizcachitas project, one of the largest advanced copper deposits in the Americas. Vizcachitas is to become Chile's next major copper mine. The project is a copper-molybdenum porphyry deposit, located 150 km north of Santiago, in an area of very good infrastructure. The project is currently undertaking a pre-feasibility study.

Warren Gilman, Chairman and CEO of the Company commented: "Queen's Road Capital is happy that its first investment in the copper sector is in Los Andes Copper. The Vizcachitas project is potentially the most advanced, ready to build copper porphyry project in South America. We look forward to working together with Fernando and his team as they advance Vizcachitas towards production."

Completion of the investment is subject to receipt of all required regulatory approvals, including the TSXV and is expected to occur in May 2021.

Queen's Road Capital is a leading financier to the global resource sector. The Company is a resource focused investment company, making investments in privately held and publicly traded resource companies. It is intended that the Company will acquire and hold securities for long-term capital appreciation and reliable quarterly income, with a focus on convertible debt securities and resource projects in advanced development or production located in safe jurisdictions.

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.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, visit the Company's website at www.queensrdcapital.com or contact by email info@queensrdcapital.com or phone +852 2759 2022.



Caution Regarding Forward Looking-Statements



Certain statements in this News Release, which are not historical in nature, constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of that phrase under applicable Canadian securities law. These statements include, but are not limited to, statements or information concerning the Company's growth strategy and the Company's future performance. These statements reflect management's current assumptions and expectations and by their nature are subject to certain underlying assumptions, known and unknown risks and uncertainties and other factors which may cause actual results, performance or events to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Those risks include the interpretation of drill results; the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with our expectations; commodity and currency price fluctuation; failure to obtain adequate financing; regulatory, recovery rates, refinery costs, inability to identify or successfully conclude corporate transactions, and other relevant conversion factors, permitting and licensing risks; and general market and mining exploration risks. Forward-looking statements should not be construed as investment advice. Readers should perform a detailed, independent investigation and analysis of the Company and are encouraged to seek independent professional advice before making any investment decision. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statement. Except as required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect events or changes in circumstances that occur after the date hereof.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/82625
PINELLAS PARK, Fla., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Access Ready Reporter Issue 14 -The Reporter Newsletter is a service of Access Ready Inc. which is a nonprofit cross disability advocacy organization promoting a policy of inclusion and accessibility across information technology through education and best practices. The Board of Directors of Access Ready has deemed inaccessible information technology to be a clear, growing, and present danger to the civic, economic, and social welfare of people with disabilities.

In a decision that a dissenting judge warned could have widespread consequences for visually impaired people, a split panel of the 11th Circuit ruled Wednesday that websites for businesses that are generally open to the public are not places of public accommodation under the Americans With Disabilities Act. In a 2-1 decision, a panel of the Atlanta-based appeals court ruled that although inaccessibility online can be a significant inconvenience, supermarket chain Winn-Dixie cannot be found liable under Title III of the ADA for having a website that is inaccessible to disabled people who use screen-reading software.Read More

11TH CIRCUIT REVERSES WINN-DIXIE- WHAT IT MEANS TO YOURead More

THE ELEVENTH CIRCUIT FINALLY BREAKS ITS SILENCE ON WEBSITE ACCESSIBILITY - BUT WAS ITS DECISION WORTH THE WAIT? Read More

WINN-DIXIE WINS LEGAL SUIT, MAYBE SHOOTS SELF IN FOOTRead More

BUSINESS ACCESSIBILITY

ONE PASADENA HOTEL AMONG 27 IN SOUTHERN CAL TO AGREE TO IMPROVE DISABLED ACCESSThe U.S. Attorney's Office announced today that it has signed agreements with a Pasadena hotel and 26 others across Southern California to resolve investigations linked to the Americans with Disabilities Act. The agreements were finalized over a one-year period that began last April and concluded with the 27th agreement. After federal investigations into the hotels revealed non-compliance with various provisions of the ADA pertaining to "public accommodations," the hotels agreed to remedy the violations, with some agreeing to stop the illegal practice of charging more for accessible roomsRead More

NEARLY 30 CALIFORNIA HOTELS SIGN AGREEMENTS TO IMPROVE ADA ACCESSRead More

CURRENT LEGAL ACTIONS

JUSTICE DEPARTMENT MODIFIES MAJOR OLMSTEAD SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT WITH NORTH CAROLINAIn United States v. North Carolina, the parties have agreed to modify a 2012 settlement agreement resolving allegations of unnecessary segregation of adults with Serious Mental Illness in adult care homes in violation of the integration mandate of Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The modification will allow some provisions to expire timely on July 1, 2021, while extending the term of the remainder of the agreement to July 1, 2023Read More

ELECTION ACCESSIBILITY COMBATING VOTER SUPPRESSION AGAINST VOTERS WITH DISABILITIES Last year marked the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, but many who work in the theatre would agree that there is much left to do before even the nation's largest venues can be called truly accessible. This work has both a long and recent history. In 2018, Katherine Fritz wrote for American Theatre about the need for accessibility policies in American theatre spaces, and in 2010, the National Endowment for the Arts' Office of Accessibility released a primer on the Department of Justice's ADA changes at the time of a major update to the legislationRead More

TAKING ADA FROM THE PAGE TO THE STAGE Read More

GOVERNMENT SPOTLIGHT

US CANCELS STUDENT DEBT FOR MORE THAN 40,000 DISABLED AMERICANSRead More

HEALTHCARE ACCESSIBILITY

3 WAYS TO HELP DISABLED PEOPLE THROUGH THE END OF THE PANDEMIC We have already been through a couple of false endings to the Covid-19 pandemic. But finally, there really are solid reasons to think that it may really be ending, or at least becoming a different, less dangerous and disruptive problem than it has been for the last year. This is good news for disabled people, as it is for everyone. But this transition will be a lot easier if a few of our unique needs can be met. People with disabilities have disproportionately suffered from the pandemic. We have been devastated medically, through our disability-related vulnerability and dangerous medical responses to itRead More

SIX TIPS FOR MAKING VACCINATION REGISTRATION WEBSITES MORE ACCESSIBLE FOR ALLRead More

TECHNOLOGY SPOTLIGHT

ONLINE INSTRUCTION HAS BEEN LIBERATING, AND VEXING, FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES

Read More

Sponsored by CommonlookContent Curation sponsored by MicroassistCirculation sponsored by eReleases

Editor, Douglas George TowneContactDouglas Towne727-531-1000308924@email4pr.com

View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/access-ready-covers-conflict-between-federal-circuit-courts-over-whether-websites-are-bound-by-ada-accessibility-rules-301282226.html

SOURCE Access Ready Inc
MIAMI, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Teachers have reinvented their classrooms in all kinds of ways this year and continue to be an integral part of keeping communities moving. Margaritaville believes it is time to pay it forward. The global lifestyle brand is celebrating all educators, from teachers to school counselors, who have helped families navigate a difficult year with their first ever "Educators: Our Everyday Heroes" Giveaway. From May 3 to June 24, 15 nominated educators, plus one grand prize winner, from around the U.S. will win an escape to a Margaritaville destination.

Anyone with an excellent educator in their life is eligible to nominate him or her for a chance to win a much-needed vacation. All submissions must be made through www.margaritaville.com/educators and nominations must include a photo of the educator or the person submitting the nomination along with a caption as to why their favorite teacher, counselor and/or administrator deserves a trip full of fun and relaxation. Winners will be selected based on a range of criteria including earned votes and sharing activity as well as insights from Margaritaville's selection committee on originality and overall story.

One grand prize winner will receive the ultimate escape to the brand-new Margaritaville Beach Resort Nassau in the Bahamas. The island getaway destination features white-sand beaches, sunshine, laid-back, tropical accommodations, spectacular food, fun activities, and more frozen cocktails than one could imagine. Valued at over $25K, the winner and their group will win a 7-night retreat to the beach resort, accommodations in the coveted 2-bedroom Jimmy Buffett Suite, dinner at JWB Prime Steak and Seafood, luxurious spa treatments, and more.

Other participating destinations include Margaritaville Beach Resort Playa Flamingo Costa Rica, Margaritaville Resort Times Square, Margaritaville Resort Palm Springs, Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Cancun, Margaritaville Beach Hotel Jacksonville Beach, and many more. In addition to a $1,000 travel voucher for the group, the winners and their guests will be treated to daily breakfast (or a comparable resort credit) and other amenities.

Winners will be announced by July 1 and deserving educators may plan their trip at any time until the end of December 2022.

For more information, visit https://www.margaritaville.com/educators.

About Margaritaville Margaritaville, a state of mind since 1977, is a global lifestyle brand inspired by Jimmy Buffett, whose songs evoke a passion for tropical escape and relaxation.

Margaritaville features over 20 lodging locations and over 20 additional projects in the pipeline, with nearly half under construction, two gaming properties and over 60 food and beverage venues including signature concepts such as Margaritaville Restaurant, award-winning JWB Prime Steak and Seafood, 5 o'Clock Somewhere Bar & Grill and LandShark Bar & Grill. More than 20 million travelers every year change their latitude and attitude with a visit to a Margaritaville resort, residential real estate destination, vacation club, vacation home rental or restaurant. Consumers can also escape everyday through a collection of Margaritaville lifestyle products including apparel, footwear, frozen concoction makers, home decor, a satellite radio station and more.

To learn about Margaritaville's commitment to health, safety and sanitation, please visit us online: https://www.margaritaville.com/healthandsanitationcommitment.

View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/margaritaville-to-honor-15-educators-with-5-night-trip-giveaways-301282331.html

SOURCE Margaritaville
CHERRY HILL, N.J., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Small business owners (SBOs) report they are doing better than expected as the economy continues to gain steam amid the waning pandemic, according to the results of the 2021 Small Business Survey, released today by TD Bank, America's Most Convenient Bank. The survey polled more than 750 small businesses nationwide with less than $5 million in annual revenue, from sole proprietors with home-based businesses to professional services and retail. It showed that 41% of SBOs expect to grow their revenue in 2021 while only 9% anticipate a decline.

What's more, 57% expect to expand hours and/or operations and 9% will add a business location in the next 12 months. Main Street may not see as many vacancies in 2021 as predicted: just 3% of SBOs anticipate closing permanently in the next year and only 2% plan to sell their business. Despite their cautious optimism, respondents identified the national economy (43%), COVID-19 and associated operational restrictions (41%) and a decrease in revenue or sales (39%) as their top challenges in the year ahead.

Eyeing Expansion Over ExtinctionMost SBOs have not been deterred amid the pandemic, with 37% considering expanding product lines and services to grow business revenue or increase profits.

The future of jobs is also looking up, with nearly three-in-four (73%) respondents anticipating that their employee base will stay the same and 16% anticipating their number of employees will grow. This finding is aligned with national unemployment figures, which have recently dipped to 6%.

"COVID-19 required small businesses to adapt to new business operations and incorporate new revenue-generating strategies nearly overnight," said Jay DesMarteau, Head of Commercial Distribution, TD Bank. "Entrepreneurs are incredibly resilient, though, and it is encouraging that they report a more positive outlook and do not anticipate losing their livelihood."

Government Aid Helpful, But More NeededWhen asked about the effectiveness of government programs like the U.S. Small Business Administration's (SBA) Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL), two-thirds of SBOs (66%) stated that these programs provided necessary funding for small businesses or were helpful, but need more funding allocated to the programs to really make an impact.

Twenty-one percent of respondents took advantage of the PPP prior to March 2021, when the study was fielded, with nearly half of SBOs in Gen Z and younger millennials (ages 18 to 34) more likely to apply for these programs compared with just 11% of those 55 and older.

Cautious but ConfidentThe survey also highlighted some trends that provide a snapshot of how SBOs are running their businesses against the backdrop of the pandemic.

Although COVID-19 brought financial challenges, 78% of respondents are still most confident in handling the finances and accounting for their business. Other areas where business owners expressed confidence were:

Opting to use digital/online banking features (76%)

Managing their employees and human resources needs such as when to hire (74%)

Knowing when to seek additional credit or financing (66%)

Knowing how to grow their business (63%)

Despite the pandemic serving as a catalyst for the surge of contactless payment solutions and SBOs' growing reliance on digital and online banking features, a surprising 66% of respondents still process payments by collecting checks and cash, making these physical transactions the most popular payment method. One-third of respondents use person-to-person payments like Zelle or Venmo, eCommerce/Online sites (28%) or electronic transfer such as ACH payments (28%.) Just 19% report using a traditional Point of Sale (POS) system.

The Facts on Future Finance NeedsWhen considering finances, 58% of respondents have no loan or line of credit needs, although one in three applied for a loan  including PPP  or line of credit in the past 12 months. This is higher than 2019, when just 20% of businesses had applied for a loan or line of credit and 62% had no credit needs, showing COVID-19's impact on business owners' need or desire to have access to capital when needed.

Looking ahead, only 14% said they would apply for a loan or line of credit in the next year. A majority of SBOs are saying "charge it," however, with 60% reporting they have a credit card to cover business purchases and 42% use cash back or other credit card rewards to fund critical expenses.

"Although funding programs like PPP provided much-needed stimulus for small businesses, there is a sense of caution about taking on new debt this year. Business owners should speak with their banker to understand the benefits and risks related to various credit products and better understand how credit could potentially accelerate growth," DesMarteau said.

Survey methodologyThe study was conducted from March 12-19, 2021, among a representative group of 754 U.S. small business owners with less than $5 million in annual revenue. The survey was hosted by research company MARU/Matchbox.

About MARU/MatchboxMARU/Matchbox is a professional services firm dedicated to improving its clients' business outcomes. It delivers its services through teams of sector-specific research consultants specializing in the use of Insight Community and Voice of Market technology.

About TD Bank, America's Most Convenient Bank TD Bank, America's Most Convenient Bank, is one of the 10 largest banks in the U.S., providing more than 9.5 million customers with a full range of retail, small business and commercial banking products and services at more than 1,220 convenient locations throughout the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, Metro D.C., the Carolinas and Florida. In addition, TD Bank and its subsidiaries offer customized private banking and wealth management services through TD Wealth, and vehicle financing and dealer commercial services through TD Auto Finance. TD Bank is headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J. To learn more, visit www.td.com/us. Find TD Bank on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TDBank and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/TDBank_US and www.twitter.com/TDNews_US.

TD Bank, America's Most Convenient Bank, is a member of TD Bank Group and a subsidiary of The Toronto-Dominion Bank of Toronto, Canada, a top 10 financial services company in North America. The Toronto-Dominion Bank trades on the New York and Toronto stock exchanges under the ticker symbol "TD". To learn more, visit www.td.com/us.

View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/pandemic-brought-challenges-but-small-business-spirit-still-thriving-td-bank-survey-shows-301282253.html

SOURCE TD Bank
GOLETA, Calif., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Teva, a division of Deckers Brands (NYSE: DECK) announces a summer ready collaboration with the original instant photography brand Polaroid. Inspired by the rich nostalgic heritage the two brands share, the collection is a celebration of creative expression designed to help people capture instant memories.

The limited-edition Teva x Polaroid collection includes classic Teva sandal silhouettes utilizing recycled materials and a custom refurbished Polaroid 600 camera, allowing fans to capture new adventures more sustainably. Throughout the collection are pops of the classic Polaroid rainbow spectrum, combining the photography company's rich heritage with Teva's adventure-seeking DNA.

"Polaroid was a natural partner for this collaboration that demonstrates our shared belief in the power of creativity," said Erika Gabrielli, Senior Director Global Marketing at Teva. "Both of our brands evoke a happy nostalgia and we thought what better way to honor our fans than create a collection that invites expression and inspires them to make new memories."

Ready for all summer adventures, the capsule collection includes the Original Universal Polaroid in Grey, and the Midform Universal Polaroid in Red. The water-friendly styles feature the iconic, functional 4-point webbing upper silhouette, an EVA midsole, and a rubber outsole for all-day comfort and versatility. The bold grey and red base colors pop with a custom Polaroid Color Spectrum webbing on the heel strap. The sandals feature straps made of REPREVE recycled plastic yarn and are offered in inclusive sizing for all genders.

"Polaroid has always been about inspiring creativity, anytime, anywhere. We're excited to partner with a brand with a shared rich heritage to further that mission, encouraging people to find inspiration wherever their adventure takes them," said Marta Martinez, CMO of Polaroid.

Rounding out the collection is the consciously minded Teva x Polaroid 600 instant analog camera. Made from original Polaroid electronics that have been professionally refurbished and tested, the camera is cobranded and features the classic Polaroid Color Spectrum. A premium co-branded Teva x Polaroid camera strap made with REPREVE recycled yarn is also included to ensure the camera is easily accessible for capturing memories. The camera utilizes Polaroid 600 film in color or classic black and white with batteries built into each film pack. Film packs are sold separately.

The Teva x Polaroid limited-edition Original Universal Polaroid and Midform Universal Polaroid are available in extended sizing for all genders and retail for $70 and $80 respectively. The custom Teva x Polaroid 600 camera retails for $160. The capsule collection is available for purchase at teva.com and in select specialty retail stores worldwide.

Visit Teva.com for more information. #TevaxPolaroid

About Teva: In 1984, Teva created the world's first sport sandal on the banks of the Grand Canyon. The brand outfits free-spirited adventure-seekers all over the world with versatile, modern outdoor footwear. In 2020, Teva committed to reducing the brand's environmental impact by ensuring 100% of its iconic straps are made with recycled plastic, so future generations can continue exploring the wild world around them. Learn more about Teva, a division of Deckers Brands, at teva.com or follow @Teva.

About Polaroid: Polaroid was founded by Edwin Land in 1937 as an icon of innovation and engineering. It was the introduction of the breakthrough Polaroid SX-70 camera in 1972 that launched instant photography as we know it today, followed by landmark innovations such as the original OneStep, instant color film; and the Polaroid 600 and Spectra cameras and film formats.

Polaroid cameras went on to inspire artists such as Andy Warhol, Helmut Newton, Robert Mapplethorpe, Maripol, Keith Haring, and Guy Bourdin who raised the brand to the status of a cultural icon.

Today, Polaroid has analog instant photography at its core and represents the brand that people all over the world came to know and love for over 80 years. By unifying its entire product portfolio under one name, Polaroid is setting out its new vision as a global brand that will continue to create products that bring people together in human and meaningful ways.

Media Contact: Teva: Teva@ledecompany.com

View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/teva-and-polaroid-partner-on-memorable-capsule-collection-301281276.html

SOURCE Teva
WASHINGTON, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Today marks the beginning of Building Safety Month, a campaign led by the International Code Council and its members and partners, to raise awareness about the importance of building codes and the role of building safety professionals in ensuring our communities remain safe, sustainable and resilient. This year's theme is, "Prevent, Prepare, Protect. Building Codes Save."

Week 1 of the campaign highlights energy codes and standards as an essential component to increasing energy efficiency and reducing greenhouse gasses. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, model building energy codes like the International Energy Conservation Code are projected to save homeowners and businesses $126 billion in energy costs. Learn more about the Code Council's energy efficiency initiatives at www.iccsafe.org/energy.

Each subsequent week will focus on a specific theme that is critical to building safety including Training the Next Generation (week 2), Water Safety (week 3) and Disaster Preparedness (week 4). Throughout the month-long campaign, a series of free virtual educational sessions are available, including:

"The forty-one years of momentous Building Safety Month celebrations are a direct result of the dedication and passion of Code Council members and building safety professionals," said Code Council Board President Greg Wheeler, CBO. "We are proud to see industry professionals going above and beyond to spread awareness about building safety through hosting virtual events, engaging in social media, and sharing resources with their communities. This voluntary effort speaks to the heroic roles our building safety professionals continue to hold, keeping their communities safe during the pandemic and ensuring a resilient future."

The American Gas Association (AGA) serves as the 2021 Building Safety Month campaign Foundation Sponsor. "The Code Council's Building Safety month provides the opportunity to showcase the benefits of ICC membership, the I-Codes themselves, the open process for developing those codes, the collaborative efforts of the many different stakeholders working together with ICC and recognition of the code officials who are responsible for enforcing those codes," said AGA Managing Director of Building Codes and Standards, Jim Ranfone.

Over a hundred jurisdictions and organizations have issued proclamations proclaiming May 2021 Building Safety Month including U.S. President Biden. "Investing in our infrastructure and adopting and implementing modern building codes are the most effective mitigation measures communities can undertake." View the proclamation for National Building Safety Month, here.

More information about Building Safety Month, including details regarding virtual events and downloadable resources, can be found at: www.buildingsafetymonth.org. Interested individuals can also follow along on social media using the hashtag #BuildingSafety365.

Additional links:

Register for upcoming educational sessions here.

View and download this year's website and social media graphics here.

Join the Twitter #CODEversation. Every week throughout Building Safety Month the Code Council will post a series of questions related to each weekly theme.

About the International Code CouncilThe International Code Council is the leading global source of model codes and standards and building safety solutions. Code Council codes, standards and solutions are used to ensure safe, affordable and sustainable communities and buildings worldwide.

View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/virtual-building-safety-month-celebration-begins-301282242.html

SOURCE International Code Council
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 , the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(7): o

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(1): o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant files or will file annual reports under the cover Form 20-F or Form 40-F

REPORT OF FOREIGN PRIVATE ISSUER PURSUANT TO RULE 13a-16 or 15d-16 UNDER THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

TanGold Introduces New Discovery - Buckreef West Gold Zone

Near Surface - Open at Depth & to the South

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

TORONTO  May 3rd, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE)  Tanzanian Gold Corporation (TSX: TNX) (NYSE American: TRX) (TanGold or the Company) operating through its wholly owned subsidiary in Tanzania (Tanzam2000), and its joint venture partner, The State Mining Company (STAMICO), is pleased to expand on TanGolds recent MD&A filings and formally announce detailed results from its exploration program targeting the newly delineated Buckreef West Shear Zone (Buckreef West) - a splay off the well mineralized Buckreef Main Zone.

The results summarized from Buckreef West, which lies in close proximity to the Buckreef Main Zone, define a near vertical shear zone, over a strike length of 400 meters (m), with interpreted gold mineralization shallowly plunging to the northeast. The mineralized zone remains open to the south and at depth.

Highlights Include:

 Shallow Depth: All reported intercepts are at shallow depth on a well-defined structure which is interpreted as a splay off the Buckreef Main Zone.

 Open at Depth and Along Strike: Over 400m of strike length has been drilled to date and the deposit remains open at depth and along strike in both directions.

 Select Intercepts:

o Hole BWDD017 intersected 4.57m @ 6.4 g/t Au from 44.9m

o Hole BWDD015, on the same line as Hole BWDD017, had two intersections: (i) 2.18m @ 1.24 g/t Au from 86.9m and (ii) 2.49m @1.3 g/t Au from 105.1m;

o Hole BWDD012 intersected 5.57m @ 4.95 g/t Au from 98.4m and 4.0m @ 2.19 g/t Au from 92.0m;

o Hole BWDD013, on the same line as Hole BWDD012 intersected 1.5m @ 2.2 g/t Au from 59.5m;

o BWDD0018 intersected 7.0m @ 2.03 g/t Au from 44.0m and 3.85m @ 2.86 g/t from 56.0m; and

o BWDD0031 intersected 2.5m @ 7.29 g/t Au from 46.1m.

Mr. Stephen M. Mullowney, CEO (TanGold) commented, Wow, we are ecstatic with these near surface exploration results as they have confirmed a new discovery at Buckreef! We will continue with exploration and seek expansion of both the oxide and sulphide potential down-dip and along strike at Buckreef West. On the exploration front, the Company continues to evaluate the widespread gold potential across the entire Buckreef property and is currently evaluating multiple additional targets while developing an exploration triangle for the property.

Buckreef West In Detail

During 2020 and into early 2021 the Company identified and pursued drilling at Buckreef West. The goal of the program was to define additional oxide mineral resources and define a new mineralized shear zone. During the past two quarters, a total of 2,903m from 31 drillholes have been drilled at Buckreef West to conclude the current phase.

The drilling has consistently intersected a well pronounced sheared meta-basalt, with variable sulphide mineralization, and mild to strong quartz-carbonate-sericite-pyrite alteration typical of the Buckreef Main Zone. The Company will continue to evaluate the drill results and geology and prioritise the most prospective areas for infill drilling, with the explicit aim of upgrading the target to indicated mineral resource and ultimately into the mine plan. Assay results from samples received during the programme are summarized in the map, aerial image and table below.

Figure 1: Map with Recent Results from the Buckreef West Drilling Campaign

Table 1: Summary Table of Buckreef West Assay Results

Figure 2: Aerial Composite with Select Intercepts - Highlighting the Position of Buckreef West vs. the Buckreef Main Zone

Sample Protocol QA/QC

The exploration program, including all QA/Q and sample chain of custody is managed by Isaac Bisansaba, an experienced Mineral Resource geologist with over 20 years of field and mine site experience in Africa, South East Asia and Pacific islands. Gold analysis reported in this release were performed by standard fire assay using a 50-gram charge with atomic absorption finish (0.01ppm LLD) and a gravimetric finish for assays greater than 10 grams per tonne. All assays were performed by Nesch Mintech Laboratory in Mwanza. Sampling and analytical procedures are subject to a comprehensive quality assurance and quality control program. The QAQC program includes duplicate samples, blanks and analytical standards.

Intervals of core to be analyzed are split in half with a mechanized core cutter, with one half sent to the Laboratory for geochemical analysis and the remaining half kept in storage for future reference and uses. Nesch Mintech Laboratory is ISO 90001 and 17025 accredited and employs a Laboratory Information Management System for sample tracking, quality control and reporting.

About Tanzanian Gold Corporation

Tanzanian Gold Corporation along with its joint venture partner, STAMICO is building a significant gold project at Buckreef in Tanzania that is based on an expanded Mineral Resource base and the treatment of its mineable Mineral Reserves in two standalone plants. Measured Mineral Resource now stands at 19.98MT at 1.99g/t gold containing 1,281,161 ounces of gold and Indicated Mineral Resource now stand at 15.89MT at 1.48g/t gold containing 755,119 ounces of gold for a combined tonnage of 35.88MT at 1.77g/t gold containing 2,036,280 ounces of gold. The Buckreef Project also contains an Inferred Mineral Resource of 17.8MT at 1.11g/t gold for contained gold of 635,540 ounces of gold. The Company is actively investigating and assessing multiple exploration targets on its property. Please refer to the Companys Updated Mineral Resources Estimate for Buckreef Gold Project, dated May 15, 2020, for more information.

Tanzanian Gold Corporation is advancing on three value-creation tracks:

1. Strengthening its balance sheet by expanding near-term production to 15,000 - 20,000 oz. of gold per year from the processing of oxide material from an expanded oxide plant.

2. Advancing the Final Feasibility Study for a stand-alone sulphide treating plant that is substantially larger than previously modelled and targeting significant annual gold production.

3. Continuing with a drilling program to further test the potential of its property, Exploration Targets and Mineral Resource base by: (i) identifying new prospects; (ii) drilling new oxide/sulphide targets; (iii) infill drilling to upgrade Mineral Resources currently in the Inferred category; and (iv) a step-out drilling program in the Northeast Extension.

Andrew M. Cheatle, P.Geo. is the Companys Qualified Person as defined by the NI 43-101 who has verified the data disclosed in this news release and has otherwise reviewed and assumes responsibility for the technical content of this press release.

For further information, please contact Michael Martin, Investor Relations, m.martin@tangoldcorp.com , 860-248-0999, or visit the Company website at www.tangoldcorp.com

The Toronto Stock Exchange and NYSE American have not reviewed and do not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

U.S. Investors are urged to consider closely the disclosure in our SEC filings. You can review and obtain copies of these filings from the SEC's website at http://www.sec.gov/edgar.shtml

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains certain forward-looking statements as defined in the applicable securities laws. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are frequently, but not always, identified by words such as expects, anticipates, believes, hopes, intends, estimated, potential, possible and similar expressions, or statements that events, conditions or results will, may, could or should occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements relate to future events or future performance and reflect Tanzanian Gold managements expectations or beliefs regarding future events and include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to the estimation of mineral reserves and resources, recoveries, subsequent project testing, success and viability of mining operations, the timing and amount of estimated future production, and capital expenditure.

Although TanGold believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance. The actual achievements of TanGold or other future events or conditions may differ materially from those reflected in the forward-looking statements due to a variety of risks, uncertainties and other factors. These risks, uncertainties and factors include general business, legal, economic, competitive, political, regulatory and social uncertainties; actual results of exploration activities and economic evaluations; fluctuations in currency exchange rates; changes in costs; future prices of gold and other minerals; mining method, production profile and mine plan; delays in exploration, development and construction activities; changes in government legislation and regulation; the ability to obtain financing on acceptable terms and in a timely manner or at all; contests over title to properties; employee relations and shortages of skilled personnel and contractors; the speculative nature of, and the risks involved in, the exploration, development and mining business. These risks are set forth under Item 3.D in Tanzanian Golds Form 20-F for the year ended August 31, 2020, as amended, as filed with the SEC.

The information contained in this press release is as of the date of the press release and TanGold assumes not duty to update such information.

Note to U.S. Investors
The Florida Department of Health has ended its daily reports of COVID-19 activity and has shuttered its dashboard that provided a visual account of cases, deaths, testing and other information since March 2020.
The first in a new series of Good Green Gatherings events to inspire change is being held in Tauranga next Thursday.

A panel of three speakers will take the opportunity to discuss the actions communities must take to care for terrestrial and marine environments.

Environmental concerns and community-led solutions will be discussed on May 6 at 7.30pm at the Village Cinema in the Historic Village to ensure that Aotearoas diverse environments are healthy for future generations to enjoy.

The speakers on the panel for this event include Green Party MP Eugenie

Sage, University of Waikato Senior Lecturer Dr Shari Gallop and Chief Executive of Bay Conservation Alliance Michelle Elborn.

As the Green Party spokesperson for Oceans and Fisheries, Environment (including RMA reform and Waste), Conservation, Forestry, Assoc Local Government (Three Waters), Land Information, Civil Defence and Emergency Management, Sage says the meeting is a chance to talk with people about the importance of our oceans, and how we can better look after them.

The oceans have been a sink for more than 90 per cent of the heat we have generated from global warming.

They are affected by over fishing, dredging and pollution from land uses; including earthworks which pollute rivers, streams and estuaries with sediment.

Less than 0.4 per cent of the seas around Aotearoa are protected; despite an international target of protecting 30 per cent of sea space by 2030, Sage says.

We lag behind other countries in establishing marine protected marine area to help ensure marine life thrives.

We need more marine protected areas while recognising Maori customary fishing rights and the 1992 Maori fisheries settlement.

Those attending will have a chance to ask questions and contribute their thoughts on Tauranga Moana, the issues facing it, and how we can achieve healthy oceans.

Dr Shari Gallop will be talking about the coastal marine environment and the mountains-to-sea connection.

She will be highlighting New Zealands diversity and wealth of coastal environments, and some pressing environmental issues.

Shari was the recipient of the New Zealand 2020 L'Oreal/UNESCO For Women in Science fellowship for her research on the science of restoring estuaries and what needs to be done in order to stand up to climate change.

Chief Executive of the Bay Conservation Alliance, Michelle Elborn, says the big objective is to see everyone working together to achieve landscape scale nature conservation, which in simple terms means we support the well-being of nature everywhere  our forests, streams,

wetlands, harbours, estuaries and coastal areas as well as our own backyards.

Biosecurity challenges are likely to keep coming with climate change and a hugely interconnected world. Biosecurity and biodiversity are also interrelated, says Michelle.

The Bay of Plenty has the southernmost stand of kauri currently free of dieback, we need to work hard to keep it that way.

Co-convenor from the Tauranga branch of the Green party Josh Cole says swimming, fishing, collecting kai moana and enjoying the waters and coastline are what many people love about living in Tauranga and the Bay of Plenty.

Doors for the event will open at 7pm and conclude at 9pm.

The event is free and open to all.
The Ministry of Health is continuing to monitor developments in Western Australia after a Perth managed isolation facility worker and two of their housemates tested positive for Covid-19 at the weekend.

New Zealand health officials have determined the risk to public health in New Zealand from these cases is low, says a statement from the Ministry of Health.

So far, no one who has arrived in New Zealand has contacted Healthline to say they were at any of the 17 locations of interest currently connected to these cases at the specified times.

Western Australian health officials are continuing their scoping interviews of the two housemates and it is possible further locations of interest could be added. 

The Ministry advises people who were in Perth between April 27 and May 1 to continue checking the Western Australian Government website for updates: https://www.wa.gov.au/organisation/covid-communications/covid-19-coronavirus-locations-visited-confirmed-cases

However, if you were at a location of interest at a specified time and you are still in Perth and are planning to travel to New Zealand, you are asked to follow the Western Australia health advice regarding isolation and testing on the above website, says a spokesperson for the health organisation.

Anyone who has been at a location of interest cannot travel to New Zealand from Australia within 14 days of exposure.

If you have recently arrived in New Zealand from Australia and were in a location of interest at the specified time, please self-isolate immediately and call Healthline on 0800 358 5453 for information on when you should be tested.

More than 800 passengers who travelled either directly or indirectly between Western Australia and New Zealand between April 27 and May 1, have now been contacted by the Ministry of Healths contact tracing team and given the above advice.

Brisbane Airport green zone breach update:

All 397 passengers aboard three flights which left Brisbane International Airport after the green zone breach on Thursday, April 29, have now been contacted, reports the Ministry of Health.

A further two people have contacted Healthline over the weekend to say they were in the locations of interest at Brisbane Airport at the relevant time.

This means there are now 29 people considered casual plus contacts who have been asked to self-isolate and get tested five days after their exposure.

The remaining passengers who werent at the locations of interest at the specified times are advised to monitor their health and if symptoms develop, call Healthline and get a test.

The risk from this event continues to be assessed as low.

New Zealand cases

There are no new cases of Covid-19 to report in the community today.

There are four new cases to report in recent returnees in managed isolation facilities, since the Ministrys last update yesterday.

Three previously reported cases have now recovered. The total number of active cases in New Zealand today is 25.

New Zealands total number of confirmed cases is 2266.

Since January 1, there have been 50 historical cases, out of a total of 450 cases.

Auckland Airport border-related case update:

All contacts of this case have now returned negative tests at day 12 and this case is now considered closed.

New border case details:

Arrival date From Via Positive test day /reason Managed isolation /quarantine location 24 April* Pakistan United Arab

Emirates Day 8/contact of a case Auckland 30 April Philippines Singapore Day 1/routine test Auckland 30 April Indonesia Singapore Day 0/routine test Christchurch 1 May India United Arab

Emirates Day 0/routine test Auckland



* This case was in a travel bubble with a case reported on April 27

Testing information

The total number of tests processed by laboratories to date is 2,029,196.

On Sunday 2246 tests were processed.

The seven-day rolling average up to yesterday is 3779 tests processed.

A reminder for people who may need a Covid-19 test  please visit Auckland Regional Public Health Service (ARPHS) for all testing locations in Auckland.

For all testing locations nationwide visit the Healthpoint website.

NZ Covid Tracer

NZ Covid Tracer now has 2,807,036 registered users.

Poster scans have reached 260,853,069 and users have created 9,761,852 manual diary entries.

There have been 599,400 scans in the last 24 hours to midday yesterday.
Cook Island businesses holding out for much needed tourists have now got a reprieve with a travel bubble with New Zealand less than two weeks away.

It will start on May 17, with Air New Zealand offering flights from May 18.

During yesterday's announcement, Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown says there have been enormous sacrifices made to keep Covid-19 out and communities safe.

"Our economy has been devastated, today we start our journey of recovery. Today, we get back into business and today, we start to rebuild," he says.

Cook Islands Tourism Industry Council president Liana Scott says the bubble announcement was a relief as the wait has been dire for many businesses and financial support from the Government due to run out next month.

"Some of them have mentioned to me, if it takes longer than May, they don't think they can hang in any longer.

"We have been lucky enough to have the government support through a wage subsidy and, without that, business would not have been able to continue," she says.

Scott says businesses have already begun to prepare for overseas guests.

"Some properties have been in hibernation, so they have been closed completely and I've already seen on Facebook they've been having staff doing some rotational shifts, getting into the rooms, servicing aircons and those sorts of things," she says.

She says some hotels have even been making their own jam while they waited for shipments of individual breakfast spreads to come in for guests

But she says some business had lost workers to New Zealand as the wage subsidy was only enough to survive on let alone pay the mortgage and other bills.

When the one way bubble was announced in January, 304 Cook Island residents left either for a short term stay or permanently.

"A lot of that young working population has moved to New Zealand to do some seasonal and permanent roles and I think filling those roles will be quite difficult," she says.

Once the bubble is up and running Air New Zealand will fly to the Cook Islands two or three times a week.

The airline expects to step that up to daily from July in time for the school holidays.

However, National Party leader Judith Collins says the government had not been moved fast enough to reconnect with other pacific countries.

"The fact is these countries have almost no other income other than remittances, it is simply deplorable that the Government has not moved faster on this.

"It shouldn't be hard when there's no cases in these other countries," she says.

In the past, Samoa's Prime Minster has been reluctant to open up the borders following the measles outbreak and Tonga's Prime Minster has said a vaccination programme needs to be done first.

Nuie's Premier Dalton Tagelagi is waiting to see how successful the Cook Islands bubble is before lobbying for one of its own.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says it makes the most sense for realm countries to be the next countries in line for a bubble, but the decision is "in the hands of those countries".

-RNZ/Charlie Dreaver.
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Cortland, N.Y.  The owners of six popular Central New York restaurants have admitted hiding millions of dollars worth of sales tax from the state.

George Seibel, 60, of Homer, and Anthony Caruso, 60, of Cortland, pleaded guilty last week to tax fraud, state Office of the Attorney General and Department of Taxation and Finance announced Monday. The pair  who own bars and restaurants in Cortland and Onondaga counties  admitted failing to turn over more than $4 million worth of sales tax over the course of five years.

Seibel and Caruso have fully repaid the money theyd withheld, department officials said.

The tax evasion happened at six different businesses, officials said:

A Pizza and More, a pizzeria chain owned jointly by Seibel and Caruso with locations in Cortland, Homer and Tully

Hairy Tonys, a Cortland pub owned by Caruso

Dark Horse Tavern, a Cortland bar owned by Seibel

Dashers Corner Pub, a Homer restaurant and bar owned by Seibel

Seibel and Caruso, through their joint company, APAM, LLC, pleaded guilty in December 2019 to third-degree criminal tax fraud, a felony, officials said.

Seibel and his company, James & Main, LLC, pleaded guilty in December 2019 to fifth-degree criminal tax fraud, a misdemeanor, officials said. He was sentenced to serve a one-year conditional discharge for withholding sales tax owed by Dashers Corner Pub.

The case wrapped up Friday when Seibel and Caruso pleaded guilty in Cortland County Court to two counts of fifth-degree criminal tax fraud, a misdemeanor. Seibel admitted withholding sales taxes made at A Pizza and More and Dark Horse Tavern, while Caruso admitted he withheld sales taxes made at A Pizza and More and Hairy Tonys, officials said.

Both men were sentenced to serve one-year conditional discharges.

Staff writer Samantha House covers breaking news, crime and public safety. Have a tip, a story idea, a question or a comment? Reach her at shouse@syracuse.com.
Van Duyn Principal Eva Williams has been named the 2021 New York State Elementary Principal of the Year by the School Administrators Association of New York State.

Williams was chosen for her commitment to excellence, her dedication to meeting the academic and social needs of her students, and her connections with staff, families and the greater community, according to a press release from the Syracuse City School District.

In her eight years leading Van Duyn Elementary school, Principal Williams has implemented frequent two-way communication with parents, cultural and climate practices including restorative circles, incentives for students to actively engage in learning, and opportunities for families to learn strategies for helping their children at home, said Melissa Evans, the School Administrators Associations director of Elementary Schools.

Under her leadership, Van Duyn has moved from a school in New York State priority status to in good standing in just five years. Her school also saw the greatest increase districtwide in ELA IEnglish Language Arts) and math scores on the NYS assessments for two consecutive years.

Pre-COVID, Van Duyn hosted more than 80 Family Fun in Learning Nights, providing dinner, schoolwide data information, and an engaging activity that allowed staff to engage with families, the press release noted.

We are exceptionally proud of Principal Williams, District Superintendent Jaime Alicea said Eva has long been committed to bridging the gap between home and school, creating connections between school staff, families and community organizations to ensure that the needs of each student are met.
Syracuse Shakespeare-In-The-Park celebrated William Shakespeares 457th birthday with the announcement of its 2021-22 season.

Summer performances in Thornden Park Amphitheater feature a Trojan tale with romantic context and slapstick set betwixt Ephesus and Syracuse. Fall and spring performances at Community Black Box Theatre will take you from New York City to 16th-century England. Each show will run for six performances.

Heres this years lineup:

Troilus and Cressida

June 4-13 at Thornden Park Amphitheater (Friday/Saturday 5:30 p.m.; Sunday 2 p.m.)

Alyssa Otoski-Keim as CressidaSyracuse Shakespeare-In-The-Park

Honor, loyalty, and love play out on the stage, set against the backdrop of the famed historical conflict, the Trojan War. This tragedy is directed by Anne Margaret Childress and produced by executive director Ronnie Bell, and will feature dramatic scenes of warfare and death. Veteran SSITP actors Aaron Alexander and Alyssa Otoski-Keim will play titular characters Troilus and Cressida, respectively.

Comedy of Errors

Aug. 6-15 at Thornden Park Amphitheater (Friday/Saturday at 5:30 p.m.; Sunday 2 p.m.)

Have you ever had a day that just kept getting weirder? Perhaps not one filled with mistaken identities, surprise wives, and potential demon possession. This play epitomizes its title: get ready for laughs, gags and too many errors to count.

I Hate Hamlet

Nov. 5-14 at Community Black Box Theatre (Friday/Saturday 7 p.m.; Sunday 2 p.m.)

Hollywood contracts, apartment sword fights and the persuasive ghost of John Barrymore: all in a days work for television actor Andrew Rally, who must navigate the highs and lows of a thrilling, tragic and well-known role  which he hates.

A Man for All Seasons

April 1-10, 2022, at Community Black Box Theatre (Friday/Saturday 7 p.m.; Sunday 2 p.m.)

Ever wondered about the events that led King Henry VIII to break away from the Church of England? Bolts historical play centers on the principled Sir Thomas More, and the deadly ramifications of his opposition to the Tudor kings divorce.

Syracuse Shakespeare-In-The-Park will continue to partner with Onondaga County Public Library. Last years efforts resulted in 20 free livestreamed shows, select recordings of which can be found on SSITPs YouTube channel.

Free advance tickets for this summers shows are available through ssitp.org. Due to current COVID-19 health and safety guidelines, both summer productions will require patrons to get their tickets in advance. Premium advance tickets are $30, which include front-row seats, a color playbill, $15 of food from Beer Belly Deli, a bottle of water, and a Gannons Ice Cream. For the indoor shows in November 2021 and April 2022, ticket prices range from $10 to $30.
Jeremy Klemanski is the president and C.E.O. of Helio Health. He also is chair of the CNY Behavioral Health Care Collaborative and the chair of the Board of the New York Association of Substance Abuse Providers.

Most of New York and the nation are experiencing significant increases in overdoses, with fatalities rising to levels never experienced in recorded history.

In the past 12 months in the United States, health data predicts we have lost more than 90,000 American lives to overdose. That is 90,000 fewer neighbors, colleagues, friends, caregivers and family that might otherwise still be with us. Those 90,000 lost lives created new traumatic experiences for the people who discovered them, who tried to save them, who buried them, who mourn them, and who now live without them.

The trauma associated with those we lose to overdose increases the health care and wellness needs of our community. The trauma resulting from overdose is a reliable indicator that the recent increases we are experiencing in people seeking mental health care, substance use disorder care, and other types of health care will continue for as much as a generation forward absent access to the prevention, treatment, recovery, and harm reduction services necessary to support people.

We have learned through the Covid-19 pandemic how much is possible when local communities, states and our nation mobilize resources to prevent, treat, research and develop new ways of acting to improve or protect our health.

Advocates have argued the opioid epidemic raging for well over a decade now would benefit from the same type of quick, all-in response as we have put forth battling Covid-19.

Last week, we saw action from the Biden administration to remove barriers to treating opioid use disorder when the Department of Health and Human Services announced the removal of barriers to requirements that made it more difficult for practitioners to prescribe buprenorphine. Buprenorphine is one of the medications used to treat opioid use disorder, along with counseling and other supports. Increasing the number of practitioners that prescribe buprenorphine will allow patients who have been stabilized in specialty addiction settings to continue their recovery maintenance within a primary care setting. This can free up capacity at specialty practices for patients needing more specialized support early in recovery. This action also potentially expands the practitioner workforce treating substance abuse disorders, helping us fight back the opioid pandemic.

This alone will not stem the tide of overdoses, but it is a sign the administration knows we are in a fight for the lives of our fellow citizens, and that it intends to fight with us.

For anyone interested in learning more about how to add buprenorphine to their practice the federal government released, a set of guidance documents can be found at Practice Guidelines for the Administration of Buprenorphine for Treating Opioid Use Disorder.

For anyone who is experiencing a substance use disorder and needs immediate access to care, the Regional Open Access Center for Addiction (operated by Helio Health) is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year at 329 N. Salina St., or can be reached at (315) 471-1564.

From the archive: Onondaga County opioid deaths skyrocket during coronavirus pandemic (Oct. 23, 2020)
Syracuse, N.Y.  Matthew Van Ryn has been paying $1,800 a month for health insurance since he lost his job last year at a Syracuse law firm. So he was relieved when President Biden signed the recent stimulus package, which provides six months of free health insurance to people who were forced out of jobs during the Covid-19 pandemic.

But getting those benefits is more complicated than anyone would like.

The American Rescue Plan stimulus pays for six months of health insurance known as COBRA for people who lost their employer-provided health benefits due to layoff or reduced hours during the pandemic.

The subsidy started April 1. But employers and insurers have until May 31 to contact former employees and confirm their eligibility.

That means most of the people who qualify for the subsidy wont have confirmation in writing until two months or more after the subsidy begins. Benefits will be retroactive for many people.

The lag is causing confusion for individuals and employers alike.

Van Ryn, for example, received a bill for his April premium payment even though he should qualify for the federal benefit. The letter warned that if he did not pay by May 1 he could lose his insurance.

Van Ryn said he called Employee Benefits Plus, the company that manages his COBRA plan, and the company agreed that he would qualify for the subsidy and did not have to pay the premium.

But health experts warn it would be risky for COBRA participants to stop making premium payments without getting approval from their plan administrator. Not everyone on COBRA will qualify for the federal subsidy, and failing to pay premiums could result in a loss of coverage.

If your plan is still asking you to pay your premium, its safest to do so and request reimbursement once youre affirmed as eligible,' said Sabrina Corlette, co-director of the Center on Health Insurance Reforms at Georgetown Universitys McCourt School of Public Policy.

For individuals who have not yet been confirmed as eligible for subsidized COBRA, experts say, the best course is to contact your former employer -- or the third-party company that administers benefits -- and ask them how to proceed.

Steven Wladis, CEO of Employee Benefits Plus, said his company will work with individuals who contact them to figure out the best course of action. The situation will remain muddled until employers send notices to their former employees and confirm their eligibility.

Theres a lot of pieces that have to get worked out,' Wladis said.

COBRA plans enable individuals to continue their employer-based health insurance after they leave work by paying the full cost of the premiums.

The COBRA subsidy in the stimulus plan is available to anyone who left a job involuntarily since November 2019, as long as they do not qualify for other insurance such as Medicare or a spouses health plan. The subsidy also kicks in for people who have remained in their jobs but reduced their hours so much because of Covid-19 that they lost access to their companys health plan.

Even people who had previously declined COBRA because of the high cost are eligible for the subsidy if they sign up within 60 days of being notified by their ex-employer.

Benefits are retroactive to April 1. The subsidy lasts through Sept. 30.

Employers must notify former employees who are potentially eligible by May 31. Those former employees then fill out a form, send it back and wait for confirmation of their eligibility.

The U.S. Department of Labor, which oversees the program, has urged employers and insurers not to collect premiums from eligible individuals even if they are still waiting for formal confirmation that they qualify for the subsidy. After all, the intent was to relieve out-of-work people of the high cost of health insurance.

Plans and issuers should not collect premium payments from Assistance Eligible Individuals and subsequently require them to seek reimbursement  if an individual has made an appropriate request for such treatment,' the department wrote in an April 7 document.

But its important for individuals to contact their COBRA plan administrator to discuss the situation first. Experts say it would be risky to pre-emptively stop making premium payments without doing so.

What we dont want is someone assuming they are eligible to later find out they are not and have their coverage canceled for nonpayment,' said Brooks Wright of KBM Management, an employee benefits consulting firm.

The COBRA subsidy is expected to cost the government about $7.8 billion after netting the effect against changes in other health costs, according to the Congressional Budget Office.

Companies with 20 or more employees will be required to make premium payments on behalf of their qualified former employees. The companies will be compensated by the government through a credit on their federal taxes.

In New York state, the COBRA subsidy also applies to smaller employers with as few as one worker if they offer group health insurance, said Wright, of KBM Management. Federal officials have not yet indicated how those companies or their insurers will be reimbursed for the subsidies, Wright said.

We are still waiting for guidance,' he said.
Syracuse, N.Y.  Onondaga County Executive Ryan McMahon today said he will ask legislators to approve spending $606,000 this year to outfit sheriffs road deputies with body cameras, the first step in a 5-year program estimated to cost about $3 million.

McMahons spending request, which is expected to pass the legislature on Tuesday, is 36% less than the $954,700 a year Sheriff Gene Conway proposed in a last-minute letter that McMahon received today.

Conway proposed to put cameras not just on road deputies but on corrections officers, jail deputies and civil employees of the sheriffs office. McMahon said he would ask county legislators to study the need for cameras in those units but saw no reason to delay getting cameras for the road patrol deputies.

We will move forward with the tested and true body camera program with our police officers,' McMahon said at a news conference. That will get approved by the legislature tomorrow. And then we will begin an RFP process.  The sheriff can move forward with that program quickly.'

McMahon has estimated body cameras could be available by early summer for the sheriffs office, one of the few largest sheriffs departments without them in Upstate New York.

The spending resolution from McMahon caps 10 tumultuous days that began with a story April 23 by Syracuse.com that documented the sheriffs office as an outlier in the trend toward outfitting police with body cameras. Conway responded to the article hours later, saying he would get cameras if he had the money, and McMahon promptly promised to get the money.

Ten of the 15 police agencies within Onondaga County already have cameras.

The spending proposal lawmakers will vote on Tuesday totals $606,650, which will be taken from the countys fund balance, or rainy-day fund. The program will cost the same amount for five years, totaling about $3 million over that period, McMahon said.

For that, the county will outfit 224 deputies from the road patrol with cameras. The county also will place cameras on 67 police vehicles. The cost also includes two or three' new staff positions that will be needed to monitor and run the camera program, McMahon said.

Conway submitted a letter to McMahon today asking for much more. His proposal would have cost $954,700 during the first year.

The sheriff requested a total of 419 body cameras, including 136 for the jail and correction divisions. He also requested cameras for a total of 95 vehicles.

McMahon said he would ask the legislatures public safety committee to review the need for extra cameras requested by Conway. He noted that the jails are outfitted with many building cameras but said he had not ruled out any portion of the sheriffs request. McMahon said it was important to move forward now with body cameras for the police division.

Body cameras benefit the public and police, experts say.

Complaints about officer misconduct steadily decline when police wear cameras, a study released in November by the Urban Institute found. Knowing a camera is present, experts said, tends to improve the behavior of everyone involved.

Body cameras give investigators and the public a chance to review police shootings and weigh whether an officers decision to use force was justified

The article April 23 by Syracuse.com reported that:

At least ten of Onondaga Countys 15 law enforcement agencies have body cameras. That includes the Syracuse Police Department.

The sheriffs offices in three of Upstate New Yorks four most populous counties have body cameras.

The New York State Police started equipping troopers in the Capital Region with body cameras in April. The state plans to roll out the cameras to the rest of the force this summer and fall.

Nearly half of the nations more than 15,000 law enforcement agencies had body cameras as of 2016, according to a report by the Bureau of Justice Statistics , the most recent estimate available.

Conway had not asked for funding for cameras since before McMahon took office in 2018.

Conway estimated the cost of body cameras would be as much as $2 million a year. Based on Syracuse police departments experience, the article estimated equipping the sheriffs department 225 deputies could cost about $429,000 a year.

MORE ON BODY CAMS

Onondaga County sheriffs office could have body cameras by end of May, county executive says

In a dizzying day, county exec forces sheriffs hand on body cams: Well pay for them

After Syracuse.com article, Sheriff Conway says he welcomes body cameras if county provides money

Sheriff Conway refuses body cameras while more U.S. police forces embrace them

Do you have a news tip or a story idea? Contact reporter Tim Knauss of syracuse.com/The Post-Standard: email | Twitter | | 315-470-3023.
Editors Note: This is part of an ongoing series that features things to do in Upstate New York while we still experience the Covid-19 pandemic. Before attempting to scale an Adirondack High Peak, do a little research and know what youre getting into. Take the proper precautions. Safe travels!

So, you want to hike an Adirondack High Peak.

What should a beginner know?

First off, understand that hiking up to the summit of one of these 46 mountains is a physically challenging trip that requires not only stamina, but some basic wilderness experience and know-how. By definition, an Adirondack High Peak is mountain more than 4,000 feet in elevation. The round-trip hikes to the summits and back vary in distance from five to nearly 18 miles.

There is no real beginner level High Peak, but there are a few that are better to start off with than others. Its wise to get some easier hikes under your belt to gain experience and stamina before moving on to more challenging outings.

The relaxing view from the top of Mt. Marcy. State University College at Oswego employee Gary Morris checks out the vista.

That said, Ben Brousseau, a spokesman for the Adirondack Mountain Club, recommended the following for the novice 46-er:

* Determine where and when you want to go. Do some research beforehand. Important: Will parking be available?

The remoteness of these 46 picturesque peaks is an attraction. However, determining where and when to go at any particular time lately is becoming a challenge, Brosseau said. The lack of parking at the trailheads of the more popular peaks, particularly on weekends and holidays, has been a real issue the past couple of years  particularly during the pandemic as a growing number of hikers from throughout the state and beyond are flocking to the Adirondacks in pursuit of a challenging and fun outdoors activity.

State officials, grappling with how to handle growing crowds of hikers in the Adirondack High Peaks, earlier this year announced a new reservation system for one popular trailhead.As of May 1, reservations are now required for the 70 parking spots at the Adirondack Mountain Reserve lot for access to trails across the reserves 7,000 acres. Walk-in users without a reservation will not be permitted. This will likely be happening more and more, Brosseau said. Read more about this.

Bottom line, when starting off, pick a less popular peak during a weekend or holiday, and decide beforehand while at home on alternative plans if parking at your first choice is unavailable. Illegally parking along a road near an over-flowing trailhead parking lot in some places can result in getting a ticket or even having your car towed.

Along with High Peaks, the DEC offers the following alternative hikes and challenges: the Cranberry Lake 50, Fire Tower Challenge, the Saranac Lake 6er and Hikes for Beginners.

The number of people parking along roadways apart from the designated lots at many of the popular Adirondack High Peak trail heads is growing.

* As part of your research, be sure and find out how long the hike in and out will be, the estimated time it will take and difficulty. Get there early enough to get in and out in daylight.

That may sound like a given, but the number of hikers who fail to find out the length of the hike theyre planning to take and start late in the day might surprise you. Last year, DEC Forest Rangers reported a record of number of rescues in the Adirondacks and Catskills  many of the incidents involved hikers who started late, got lost and found themselves trying to make their way back to their vehicles in total darkness. Dont be one of those hapless hikers.

The Adirondack.net website has a list of all 46 High peaks, listing the elevation, the total length of the hike in and out, the difficulty of the hike and the estimated time it will take.

Be acutely aware of the conditions of the trail you plan to hike and the weather on the day of your outing

Each week, the DEC puts out an Adirondack Backcountry report, which includes the latest on trail conditions, along with any road closures and the condition of seasonal access roads.

For the weather, check the National Weather Service Northern Adirondacks and Southern Adirondacks Mountain Point Forecasts for selected summits.

*Know what do to if you have to pee or poop while on a hike. If you have to go, leave the trail and do your business at least 150 to 200 feet away. The ramifications of doing things haphazardly or in a non-caring manner have both social/aesthetic and ecological implications.

The Adirondack Mountain Club and other sources recommend steps for the outdoors enthusiast to handle No. 1 and No. 2 situations in discrete and sanitary ways without leaving any unsightly, messy or smelly traces behind. Read more about this and see a video.

Brosseau listed what he called The 10 essentials for ones backpack during a High Peaks or any other summit hike:

1. A map and a compass to get your bearings always helps

2. Head lamp and/or flashlight with good batteries (not your cell phone)

3. Sun protection -- sunglasses, long-sleeved shirt, sunscreen and a hat.

4. Knife and repair/sewing kit if your backpack or clothing should rip. Its also a good idea to bring some duct tape. Duct tape is a wonderful thing, Brousseau said. Ive seen some people duct-tape the soles of the shoes back on after theyve fallen off or gotten loose.

5. Fire starter of some sort (matches and tinder), or even a small, propane-fueled stove.

6. Some kind of shelter. At the very minimum, a space blanket or emergency bivy. In more extreme weather conditions a tent, Brosseau said.

7. First aid kit

8. Extra food. Plan and pack what youre going to eat on the hike  and then a little more. You might be out on the hike longer than you planned. Eat high-calorie, high-protein foods to help maintain your energy.

9. Extra water. Carrying your own water is essential. Staying adequately hydrated prevents hypothermia. Bring more than you think youll need. In addition, a lighter alternative is a water filtration device that will allow you to safely drink the water you come across on the way up and down. Never take a drink from a water source during a hike without one because you could get ill as a result.

10. Extra clothes. Keep in mind that due to the altitude changes, youll be going through different climatic zones on the way up and down. What seems appropriate at the trailhead often doesnt make it when you go up a few thousand feet in elevation. Bring clothing for when things get colder or wetter than expected. You may start off with shorts and a T-shirt and end up donning long pants, a long sleeved shirt and fleece or rain gear at the mountain summit.

DEC and local volunteers prepare to carry an injured female hiker who was injured on a nearby hiking trail down the White Face Mountain ski slope.

FINAL RECOMMENDATIONS:

*Let someone who isnt on the hike know beforehand where youre going, your plans for the day and when you expect to be back  and check in with them when you outing is finished. Also, be sure and sign in at the trailhead before beginning your hike. These actions can become extremely important for one gets lost or injured on a hike.

Pack a mask: When recreating in New York, hikers and others are required to wear masks in public when appropriate social distancing cannot be maintained, including on trails and in the backcountry. No matter how or where you plan to recreate, pack a mask and wear it in parking lots, on crowded summits, and anywhere else you meet people along the trail or in the outdoors.

Dont forget bug spray: This is particularly important at the lower elevations of the hike. Black fly season peaks around the end of May into June. Mosquitos and deer flies come afterward and remain until the weather cools.

Stay on the trail and rock faces particularly at and near the mountains summit. Leaving the trail and starting an alternative path can lead to unwanted erosion and damage to plant life along the way. As one gets higher in elevation, youll enter an Alpine climatic zone with sensitive dnd endangered plants that can be easily trampled and damaged.

*If you get lost or injured: Keep calm and stay put. If you have cell service, call 911 or the DEC Forest Ranger Emergency Dispatch, 518-891-0235.

*Leave no trace: Bring out what you bring in. Keep the Adirondacks pristine. Remember, every litter bit hurts.

READ MORE

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Washington  Rep. John Katko has asked Congress for $15 million to pay for the development of rapid transit bus lines in Syracuse, a top priority for the citys plan to boost its economy and reduce poverty.

The federal money would help Centro open the first of two rapid bus lines aimed at improving transit between some of Syracuses poorest neighborhoods and the regions largest employers, Centro officials say.

Mayor Ben Wash included bus rapid transit in the Syracuse Surge, an economic development plan he unveiled in 2019 with the promise that it would help reduce one of the nations highest poverty rates.

The idea is to use the new bus lines to help connect low-skilled workers to entry-level jobs in Syracuse, where 1 in 4 households dont have a car.

This has the potential to be as impactful as any other anti-poverty measure that we take, Walsh told syracuse.com | The Post-Standard.

We have identified lack of transportation as one of the top barriers to employment for people living in poverty, Walsh said.

Katko, R-Camillus, made the project the single largest funding request he submitted last week as part of a renewed practice that allows House members to designate spending for projects in their home states or districts.

If approved, the money would be included in a multi-year surface transportation bill that Congress must pass this year.

Walsh and Centro CEO Brian Schultz said theyre encouraged that Katko, a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, made the project a top priority.

Schultz said a study found about 200,000 people per year would use the service on lines that would crisscross Syracuse, providing faster, more frequent service and direct connections between residential neighborhoods and business districts.

Centro would add 10 to 12 new buses, dozens of new bus stops, bus shelters and bus pull-offs on the new rapid routes, Schultz said. The plan also includes the installation of technology that would allow buses on the routes to hold green lights at intersections, avoiding stops.

One of the rapid transit lines would stretch from Syracuses Eastwood neighborhood to Onondaga Community College.

The second line would run from the William F. Walsh Regional Transportation Center on the citys North Side to University Hill, home to three medical centers and Syracuse University.

Additional improvements would be made along the South Salina Street corridor leading to Centros downtown hub.

No special lanes would have to be built on any of the routes, Schultz said. Instead, the new buses will cut travel time by running in a constant loop serving only the new designated stops. Fares would remain at $2 per trip.

The whole idea is to make fewer stops along your busiest corridors, Schultz said.

Under the plan, a rapid bus from Eastwood would travel down James Street  bypassing turns along side streets on regular routes  and continue to the downtown Centro hub before heading to OCC.

Schultz said a 40-minute trip on the existing line could be reduced to 16 to 18 minutes on the rapid bus line.

Centro also would add longer service hours to the routes, with the goal of attracting new riders to the system.

Schultz said the concept has already proven to be successful in Albany, where an initial rapid bus line attracted 6,000 riders each weekday, spurring the development of two more new lines.

Before the coronavirus pandemic, Centro carried 10 million riders per year, Schultz said. About 75% of the public bus companys riders live below the poverty line.

The last time Centro added a new bus line was in 2015 as part of the development of the Connective Corridor, linking Syracuse University with Armory Square and downtown Syracuse.

U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer, D-NY., helped jump start the Connective Corridors construction by designating money for the project as an earmark in a spending bill passed by Congress.

Congress banned earmarks in 2011 after a series of high-profile cases in which the spending was linked to corruption and government waste.

But House Democrats agreed in February to bring back member-directed spending for public and nonprofit entities. Republicans quickly agreed to do the same.

Under new transparency rules, members of Congress must publicly display earmark requests on their government websites. The members also must certify that they and their immediate families have no financial interest in the projects.

Katko requested funding for about 20 different projects, including $140,000 for the Syracuse Police Department to buy body-worn cameras that would be used by 14 uniformed sergeants.

Walsh said the sergeants would be the last uniformed officers to be equipped with the cameras, fully implementing a program that began with only 16 cameras when he took office four years ago.

Katkos transportation funding requests include $10 million to help Onondaga County pay for the widening of Caughdenoy Road in Clay, between Mud Mill Road and Route 31.

He also asked for $8.9 million to help New York state rehabilitate the bridges carrying Airport Road over Interstate 81 in the town of Salina, and $8 million to help Onondaga County complete the final section of the Loop-the-Lake trail around Onondaga Lake. The last segment of the trail would be built in the town of Salina, and include a pedestrian bridge over the CSX railroad tracks.

Got a tip, comment or story idea? Contact Mark Weiner anytime by: Email | Twitter | Facebook | 571-970-3751
The number of voters who had their ballots disqualified last year in New Yorks 22nd Congressional District election is higher than previously disclosed in court, according to data compiled by a voting rights group.

Election officials tossed out the ballots of at least 273 registered voters in the House race between Rep. Claudia Tenney and Anthony Brindisi, simply because those voters showed up at the wrong polling place, the new data shows.

The total is substantially more than the 128 disqualified affidavit ballots publicly discussed in a series of court hearings after the November election.

After a three-month legal battle between the campaigns, state Supreme Court Justice Scott DelConte ruled in January the disputed ballots could not be counted, citing a 2005 legal precedent often referred to as the wrong church, wrong pew rule.

Tenney, R-New Hartford, ended up winning the election  one of the closest House races in the nation last year  by 109 votes over Brindisi, D-Utica.

The group Vote Early NY uncovered the new data from the 2020 election through freedom of information requests to state and local boards of election.

Jarret Berg, the groups co-founder, said the data paints a troubling picture of what happened to legally registered voters who filled out affidavit ballots after being told their name was not listed in poll books.

The injustice here is that these folks are all registered to vote, Berg said today. The only technical defect is that they happened to be standing in the wrong place.

Berg said poll workers are required by New York law to send registered voters to their correct polling site if they mistakenly show up at the wrong one.

But in the 273 cases in the 22nd District election, registered voters who showed up at the wrong polling place in their county were told to fill out affidavit ballots  all of which were ultimately rejected, Berg said.

The party enrollment of those voters was not disclosed in the data, so its not possible to speculate how those votes could have changed the final outcome of the election.

DelConte, the state Supreme Court judge, said its ultimately the fault of the voters for going to the wrong polling site. He said courts have no authority under election law to correct errors made by voters.

In a report issued today, Voter Early NY found the problem of disqualified ballots was widespread across the state in Novembers elections.

All told, more than 13,800 registered New Yorkers who voted at the wrong polling place in their county had their ballots fully disqualified, according to data compiled from all of the states counties.

Other states, including neighboring New Jersey, allow at least a portion of ballots to be counted  for members of Congress or statewide races such as governor and president  if a registered voter shows up at the wrong polling place in their county.

Some state senators want to make a similar change to New Yorks voting law.

The state Senate Elections Committee today passed a bill sponsored by Sen. Zellnor Myrie, D-Brooklyn, that would require election officials to count ballots for any voter who shows up at a polling site in the county where they are registered to vote.

The ballot would count for all of the offices that a voter was entitled to vote for at their assigned polling place.

Eligible voters who cast their ballots in the wrong polling place, but who otherwise are qualified, should not be penalized simply because they came to the wrong place on Election Day, Myrie said today.

The disqualified voters in the 22nd District election and other problems that surfaced in the court battle last year prompted the U.S. Justice Department to determine that Oneida County violated voter rights.

A top Justice Department official notified the county last month that the federal government plans to file a civil lawsuit over violations that disenfranchised voters in the election.

A Justice Department review found Oneida County failed to process at least 2,400 voter registration applications that had been submitted in time for the election through the state Department of Motor Vehicles.

Oneida County officials said they would try to negotiate a settlement before the case heads to court.

New Yorks 22nd Congressional District spans all of Madison, Oneida, Cortland and Chenango counties and parts of Oswego, Broome, Herkimer, and Tioga counties.

MORE ON THE NY-22 ELECTION

US Department of Justice: Oneida County violated voter rights in NY-22 election

The race for NY-22 is over, but it made history for all the wrong reasons

Voter advocates after NY-22 fiasco: Hire qualified people to run elections

Rep. Claudia Tenneys late arrival in Congress costs her a prime committee seat

Oneida County elections commissioners resign after NY-22 mistakes

Got a tip, comment or story idea? Contact Mark Weiner anytime by: Email | Twitter | Facebook | 571-970-3751
To the Editor:

New York is now the 17th state in the union to legalize marijuana. The Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act (Senate Bill S854A; Assembly Bill A1248) passed with only Democratic votes  no Republicans voted for it. The Republicans claim their opposition was because the bill was badly written, and that it will serve as a kind of gateway for marijuana into our state. Marijuana is already here, and is not going anywhere. According to the Washington Post, in 2017, 55 million Americans said they used marijuana at least once in the last year. A Pew Research Center Poll found that 67% of Americans favor legalization. Before moving on though, you should know that I have never tried marijuana and do not plan to now  legal or not. My comments going forward are about the policy and politics related to this legislation.

The Republican conference insists they vote independently, and that Democrats vote in lockstep with party leadership. Not true. For this bill, three Democratic senators and six Assembly members voted against it. Despite this vote tally, is the push to legalize marijuana really just a Democratic initiative? No. Have Republicans led on this issue? Yes! Montana just passed a legalization bill too, and their legislature is dominated by Republicans. I suspect our state matches national sentiments, and most New Yorkers favored the change, including Republicans and elected Republican representatives. The problem facing Republican legislators is that they are in the minority and do not get credit like the majority does. If the balance were flipped in New York, I bet Republicans would have led the passage of the MRTA. Public support would have been on their side, too. The legislation acts upon the opinion shared by most New Yorkers that a legal framework to regulate and control marijuana is the right way forward. This is not a money grab by the government. The estimated tax revenue will amount to about 0.001% of the total budget  not a noticeable impact, but there will be a noticeable impact on our states ability to prevent access to it. Yes  legalization can help control distribution by using the revenues to support programs that keep it away from minors. I definitely want that to happen.

The Republican vote on this legislation was more a vote opposing the majority than a vote on the bill itself. It is unfortunate that they viewed the bill in this way. Progress is not bound to a party. Progress is bound to the ideas that make our society better, and those that make them happen. Our state still needs more change to bring families and businesses back, especially to Central New York. Next time, lets hope members from both parties will view proposed legislation on merit and not on party politics.

Dan Buttermann

Oneonta

The writer was the Democratic Party candidate in the 121st Assembly District last November.

Also in Opinion: Editorial cartoons for May 2, 2021: Bidens big speech, Giuliani search, vaccine hesitancy
Gas prices are the highest in two years, and drivers may soon face more headaches at the pump.

A new bill in the New York State Senate could raise gas prices another 55 cents per gallon, according to the Albany Times Union. The Climate and Community Investment Act would also raise home heating costs 26% as part of an effort to meet state green energy goals and combat climate change.

WHAM reports more than 24 Democratic senators have backed the proposed carbon tax, which would generate $2.3 billion in revenue but impact consumers.

We do believe that the benefits way outweigh the hurt that people may be feeling with this legislation, bill sponsor and NYS Senator Kevin Parker said.

Gas prices are $2.90 per gallon nationwide as of Monday, according to AAA, and averaging $2.87 in the Syracuse area. Thats the highest since May 2019, according to GasBuddy; average gas prices havent topped $3 per gallon since 2014, and fell as low as $1 during the coronavirus lockdowns last year.

But demand is expected to go up this summer as more of the country opens up, thanks to Covid-19 vaccinations and pent-up desires for vacation travel.

CNN Business reports fuel shortages are possible this summer as the National Tank Truck Carriers (NTTC) trade group said 20-25% of tanker trucks will not be moving gasoline due to a lack of qualified drivers. By comparison, only 10% of trucks refueling gas stations were sitting idle at this time in 2019.

The pandemic is partly to blame, but NBC reports older drivers are also retiring and turnover is high in the industry. Recruiting new drivers is hard because it takes more training to drive a truckload of gasoline than other cargo, and not every driver wants to take the required tests and get certified.

There have already been spot shortages reported in Florida, Arizona and Missouri due to a lack of tank truck drivers. However, if the U.S. sees pumps empty this summer, it wont be due to petroleum supply shortages like in the 1970s gas crisis.

So theres actually no shortage of gas, Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, told KSTP. The problem is simply just replenishing gas stations as quickly as consumers are filling their tanks. And the simple reason is there just arent enough truckers.
Tahlequah, OK (74464)

Today

Cloudy early with peeks of sunshine expected late. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 89F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

Variable clouds with thunderstorms, especially early. Low 68F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%.
Burnley Selected for Commonwealth Honors Academy

By West Kentucky Star Staff

BALLARD COUNTY - Ballard Memorial High School junior Wendy Burnley has been selected for the Commonwealth Honors Academy at Murray State University. The three-week residential academic enrichment program for outstanding rising seniors will be held on campus June 5-26. Students were chosen not only from Kentucky, but also from surrounding states.She is the daughter of Walter and Valarie Burnley of Kevil, and says one reason she wanted to apply was because the experience was not far away. Im much more of a homebody, Burnley explains. This way I can still see my parents, and go to my church.Students chose potential classes when they applied, but wont know for sure which ones they got until later. They will earn six hours of university credit, with the opportunity to take six additional MSU credit hours tuition-free. Those who go on to attend the university also will receive a renewable $2,000 per year housing scholarship.Burnley said she would like to major in agribusiness sales and marketing, and would like to attend MSU  especially when I qualified for this, she said with smile. She works at Bandana Ag now and is the parliamentarian for the BMHS FFA chapter. She was looking forward to going to the first in-person competitionthis year, scheduled for later this semester.Burnley also is a long-time 4-H member, and currently serves as both a state and county Teen Council member, as well as the Purchase Area 4-H president. She is secretary of the BMHS Student Council, FBLA historian, and a member of the BMHS News team. She and her family attend Kevil United Methodist Church, where Burnley says, I kind of am the youth group in the small congregation.She says plans to return to Ballard County after college.
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re: Visiting the first of its kind - The USS Nautilus @ Groton Submarine Museum (Connecticut, USA)



Quote: "I was teased that if I was going to this nuclear power programme, I might become irradiated and sterile and not have any children."



Jerry Armstrong was a 23-year-old sonar operator when he volunteered to work on a new top-secret submarine. His wife was four months pregnant at the time and they knew they wanted another child.



"I was concerned, I discussed it with my wife but we knew that other naval and civilian personnel were already working on a prototype so we decided it would be safe."



Armstrong hadn't told anyone about his decision so his family and his in-laws were surprised when they got a visit from the FBI, asking what kind of student he had been and other questions about his lifestyle. His wife's family background was checked closely. Some of the others who'd volunteered for the programme were rejected.



"They were just picked up from the classroom and we never saw them again. The only thing we heard was that their family history didn't satisfy the investigation."



Armstrong was then sent to work on the prototype nuclear reactor in the desert in Idaho, where he and the others spent nine months learning about nuclear fission. Before then, his knowledge of nuclear power was limited to the atomic bombs dropped on Japan.



They were constantly monitored as they worked, he says. "The crew wore two testing devices. One was a film badge literally made of photographic film which was worn on our belts. The other was a dosimeter which was like a ballpoint pen which we wore in our shirt pockets and would record any radiation."



Finally the Nautilus was ready and on 21 January 1954 it was launched into the Thames River in Connecticut. Twenty thousand people flocked to see it. The wife of President Eisenhower, Mamie, "christened" the submarine by breaking a champagne bottle on it as it slid into the water.



Jerry Armstrong and his wife did go on to have another child, and he says he could not have played his part in the story of the Nautilus without his wife's generosity and understanding.



"When we launched in January 1954, the families went to watch us. One elderly man there said 'that thing is going to go to sea and blow up like an A-bomb'.





Stepping inside the boat

We were handed a guided audio-tour handset with earphones by the Navy personnel within the perspex bubble. Then we descended via the tourist-friendly steps beneath the bubble and came into a subterranean world that was anything but tourist-friendly. Our world had shrunk. Pathways were just enough for my 6'4" frame.





Doorways were little more than stretched portholes that had rotary seals on them on hinged doors. I had to double down in a comic fashion to get through them.





The audio tour would require us to press a button corresponding to a labeled number in each compartment of the sub and a recorded voice would narrate the specialty of the spot we were in. But to be frank, I didn't follow the audio guide as it proved to be a sensory overload. You have to be there to gauge what I felt. It's no wonder that navies around the world send psychiatrists with submarine crews even today, given the phobia-inducing spaces within the capsule.



This seems to have been the Captain's cabin. It's as Kingly as it gets down there.





The 2nd in Charge's cabin?





The following two cubicles had to have been officers' cabins, albeit a bit down the totem pole in space and hence, I guess, lower down in the designations too, I guess.







Here's where the rest of the crew would rest on their 6 hours off duty while the rest would be keeping the boat afloat and on course:













Har, harr! For here be a loo (I think, not fully sure) that could have potentially sunk the boat, if ever a sailor had been careless when flushing it. There's a record of a German U-boat having been sunk by a careless sailor who visited the loo. I have read about the same convoluted mechanism that existed even on later era submarines; you had to open and close a number of valves in order to safely eject the contents of the toilet bowl into the sea. Get it wrong and sea water would gush in and sink the boat. I faintly remember reading about bloopers by sailors when they forgot to close one valve and they ended up with the contents of the bowl getting blown on their face. I am not sure if the latter incidents occurred with the same toilet flush mechanism as the one seen here though. Surely better designs would've come along in due time. Right? Or was this a loo that didn't come with these grisly possibilities when you flushed it? No idea. Although, my gut feeling tells me that this is a potentially boat-sinking loo because the USS Nautilus was essentially a WW2 era submarine, except for its Nuclear heart and its other related capabilities (endless O2 supply etc.).





Next to the loo, this was a wash basin that I spotted along the main corridor. This must've been where the rank and file of the sailors on board will have brushed their teeth or shaven their beards (if at all they did the latter when underway). If you scroll up to the pics of the living quarters on the sub, the officers have a wash-basin right in their cabins; whereas the rank and file don't.

It is easy for a visitor today to get inside, roam about and get out of it - for free. That's of course, as long as you don't drive into the neighboring naval base like I did my first time around! But there was a time, not too long after the world had awoken to a new era in the aftermath of the A bombs that went off in Japan, when this boat was viewed with suspicion by almost everyone who saw it. It was incredibly ambitious on the part of the American leadership and scientists no doubt, to envisage and execute such a project; but it was also seen as suicidal by the lay populace who knew nothing about it. Nor could just anyone waltz into it. The FBI would perform a thorough background check before granting sailors approval to set foot on the USS Nautilus.Excerpts (and some pics) taken from - https://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-25...%20the%20water We were handed a guided audio-tour handset with earphones by the Navy personnel within the perspex bubble. Then we descended via the tourist-friendly steps beneath the bubble and came into a subterranean world that was anything but tourist-friendly. Our world had shrunk. Pathways were just enough for my 6'4" frame.Doorways were little more than stretched portholes that had rotary seals on them on hinged doors. I had to double down in a comic fashion to get through them.The audio tour would require us to press a button corresponding to a labeled number in each compartment of the sub and a recorded voice would narrate the specialty of the spot we were in. But to be frank, I didn't follow the audio guide as it proved to be a sensory overload. You have to be there to gauge what I felt. It's no wonder that navies around the world send psychiatrists with submarine crews even today, given the phobia-inducing spaces within the capsule.This seems to have been the Captain's cabin. It's as Kingly as it gets down there.The 2nd in Charge's cabin?The following two cubicles had to have been officers' cabins, albeit a bit down the totem pole in space and hence, I guess, lower down in the designations too, I guess.Here's where the rest of the crew would rest on their 6 hours off duty while the rest would be keeping the boat afloat and on course:Har, harr! For here be a loo (I think, not fully sure) that could have potentially sunk the boat, if ever a sailor had been careless when flushing it. There's a record of a German U-boat having been sunk by a careless sailor who visited the loo. I have read about the same convoluted mechanism that existed even on later era submarines; you had to open and close a number of valves in order to safely eject the contents of the toilet bowl into the sea. Get it wrong and sea water would gush in and sink the boat. I faintly remember reading about bloopers by sailors when they forgot to close one valve and they ended up with the contents of the bowl getting blown on their face. I am not sure if the latter incidents occurred with the same toilet flush mechanism as the one seen here though. Surely better designs would've come along in due time. Right? Or was this a loo that didn't come with these grisly possibilities when you flushed it? No idea. Although, my gut feeling tells me that this is a potentially boat-sinking loo because the USS Nautilus was essentially a WW2 era submarine, except for its Nuclear heart and its other related capabilities (endless O2 supply etc.).Next to the loo, this was a wash basin that I spotted along the main corridor. This must've been where the rank and file of the sailors on board will have brushed their teeth or shaven their beards (if at all they did the latter when underway). If you scroll up to the pics of the living quarters on the sub, the officers have a wash-basin right in their cabins; whereas the rank and file don't. Last edited by locusjag : 2nd May 2021 at 16:51 .


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A rich cache of data on some 533 million Facebook users was posted to a hacker forum over the weekend and is available to download for practically free. The information is from a data breach that occurred in 2019, but hasn't been widely available until now.

The data was posted to an English-speaking cybercriminal forum called RaidForums by a hacker going by the handle TomLiner.

"The Facebook data was first listed for sale on RaidForums on June 6, 2020, but the initial sale allegedly asked users for US$30,000 in exchange for the data," explained Ivan Righi, a cyber threat intelligence analyst with Digital Shadows, a San Francisco-based provider of digital risk protection solutions.

"TomLiner's post exposed the data for eight forum tokens -- approximately $2.52," he told TechNewsWorld. "The data has been unlocked by close to 3,800 users, generating TomLiner over $9,500."

Michael Isbitski, a technical evangelist with Salt Security, a Palo Alto, Calif.-based provider of API security, added that at the time of that incident in 2019, Facebook indicated the data of 220 million users was scraped prior to the company restricting access in the platform to preserve users' privacy.

"It's plausible that this is partially the old data set resurfaced and combined with other scraped data sets since the number has now ballooned to 533 million users," he told TechNewsWorld.

Phone Number Flaw

In a statement provided to TechNewsWorld by Facebook, the company said it is confident the posted information is old data that originated from a weakness in its contact importer feature that was discovered and fixed in August 2019.

At that time, it explained, the company removed people's ability to directly find others using their phone number across both Facebook and Instagram -- a function that could be exploited using sophisticated software code to imitate Facebook and provide a phone number to find which users it belonged to.

Using that software, it continued, it had been possible to input multiple phone numbers and, by running an algorithm, connect numbers to specific users.

Facebook never returned a phone number, it explained, the attacker provided the numbers by which to do the matching.

Through this process, it was possible at that time to query user profiles and obtain a limited amount of publicly available information, it added.

Playbook for ID Theft

Although the data may be old, it still has value to hackers, cybersecurity experts told TechNewsWorld.

Admittedly, the data's value has been diminished as a saleable asset, observed Andrew Barratt, managing principal for solutions and investigations at Coalfire, a Westminster, Colo.-based provider of cybersecurity advisory services.

"But the data is still a ready-made playbook for identity theft, impersonation, and potential Facebook account take over, which often has more far reaching consequences if Facebook accounts are used to access other sites, or services," he said.

"Look at the number of fitness tracking systems, which log relevant healthcare data that leverage a Facebook login to get in," he added.

Righi noted that it is likely that most phone numbers are still active and remain linked to legitimate Facebook users.

"Cybercriminals can use information such as phone numbers, emails and full names to launch targeted social engineering attacks, such as phishing, vishing, or spam," he said. "As most users are still working from home due to the pandemic, these attacks could be effective if personalized to target victims."

"Now more than ever it is important to seriously reconsider using phone numbers as logins or sharing phone numbers with apps," added Setu Kulkarni, vice president for strategy at WhiteHat Security, a San Jose, Calif.-based provider of application security.

"Switching phone numbers is inordinately more taxing than switching email IDs," he added.

Exploiting the Pandemic

Being in the middle of a pandemic may also add value to the recycled data from the Facebook breach.

"Having access to all the data may be a golden nugget for criminals orchestrating large spam or phishing campaigns, many of which have been tailored to pandemic-themes -- stimulus checks, mask politics, geographical restrictions or track and trace scenarios," observed Barratt.

"Whether it's more or less valuable is complex because of the general state of the global economy," he continued.

"It might be harder to scam an individual for a higher amount of money, however it might be possible to scam a larger volume of people for smaller amounts that are 'on trend' from a pandemic perspective," he explained.

Saryu Nayyar, CEO of Gurucul, a threat intelligence company in El Segundo, Calif. added that the global scope of the pandemic can be an asset to scammers armed with data from the Facebook breach.

"Every country is in different stages of grappling with their Covid-19 vaccine rollout, and cybercriminals can absolutely use this data to socially engineer vaccine misinformation," she told TechNewsWorld.

"I can already see the targeted phishing email headlines: Get your vaccine today -- new vaccination center near you! Find out which of your neighbors have Covid-19. Choose which vaccine you get with our new app," she described.

Daniel Markuson, digital privacy expert with NordVPN, a VPN service provider based in Nicosia, Cypress noted in a statement that his company found that vaccine-related Google searches in the United States grew by 1,900 percent since January.

"This shows that Americans are becoming increasingly anxious to get their Covid-19 vaccine and might be an easy target for hackers," he reasoned.

Markuson added that in December, Interpol issued an alert to law enforcement across 194 countries, warning them to prepare for crimes revolving around Covid-19 vaccines.

Investigators have also reported vaccine-related activities on the Dark Web, he added.

No Stranger to Breaches

Over the years, the social network has been the target of a number of headline-grabbing data breaches.

"Facebook has been hit with data incidents from every angle," observed Paul Bischoff, privacy advocate at Comparitech, a reviews, advice and information website for consumer security products.

"It has left user data sitting on exposed servers, allowed app developers to abuse access to user accounts, and left bugs in code that hackers could exploit to steal data," he told TechNewsWorld.

"On top of that, most Facebook profiles are public, which means third parties can scrape them using bots," he said.

Data security and privacy was never high in the minds of the Facebook developers when they built the platform, maintained Purandar Das, CEO and cofounder of Sotero, a data protection company in Burlington, Mass.

"On the other hand, the platform was all about monetizing the users' data," he told TechNewsWorld.

"When you design products or platforms that start with no attention to security and privacy," he said, "it becomes very hard to go back and retrofit those capabilities."

John P. Mello Jr. has been an ECT News Network reporter since 2003. His areas of focus include cybersecurity, IT issues, privacy, e-commerce, social media, artificial intelligence, big data and consumer electronics. He has written and edited for numerous publications, including the Boston Business Journal, the Boston Phoenix, Megapixel.Net and Government Security News. Email John.


(Photo : Screenshot From Commons.Wikipedia.org) Elon Musk Confirms Reason Behind Needing Bigger Rockets: NASA Simulation Shows Earth Can't Handle Asteroid Impact

For those who think Elon Musk should focus more on how to improve Earth, a certain person tagged Musk in a Tweet that shared an article saying NASA has just simulated an asteroid and were not able to engineer a solution in order to avoid impact within a given period. Could this be the ultimate reason behind Elon Musk's fuel to bring humanity to space?

Potential Asteroid Hitting Earth?

According to Business Insider, a group of US and European space agency experts attended a particular week-long exercise led by NASA where they all tackled a hypothetical scenario. The scenario involved an asteroid that was 35 million miles away but was approaching the planet and could even hit Earth within just six months.

With every passing day of the particular exercise, the participants then studied the asteroid's size, trajectory, and even how big was the chance of impact. They then had to cooperate and use their knowledge to find out if anything could be done to stop the space rock.

NASA News

Experts reportedly fell short and the group determined that as of the moment, none of Earth's current technologies would be enough to stop the hypothetical asteroid from hitting Earth within the six-month timeframe for the simulation. In the hypothetical simulation estimates, the asteroid would then crash into eastern Europe.

As far as everyone knows, there is currently no asteroid that poses this grave of a threat to Earth but there is an estimated two-thirds of a whole asteroid--140 meters in size or bigger--that still remains undiscovered. This is why NASA as well as other agencies are currently trying to prepare for such a type of situation.

Read Also: Elon Musk Reacts to the Theory that 'Crypto Uses too much Energy' With Explanation of Hypocrisy

Elon Musk SpaceX

NASA's planetary defense officer known as Lindley Johnson noted in a press release that the exercises do ultimately help the whole planetary-defense community communicate with one another as well as with their governments in order to ensure that they are all coordinated should a particular potential impact threat be identified some time in the future. The fictitious asteroid that was noted in the simulation was then called 2021PDC.

In the situation that was created by NASA, it was initially "spotted" on April 19 then after a week, scientists then calculated it had a 5% chance of hitting the planet on October 20 just six months after it had been discovered. The day 2 exercise then fast-forwarded to May 2, when the new impact-trajectory calculations then showed that 2021PDC could certainly hit either northern Africa or Europe.

The participants that joined the simulation considered a number of missions where a spacecraft could potentially destroy or deflect an asteroid off its own path. The results however, showed that Earth wasn't ready. When Elon Musk , SpaceX CEO, was tagged in the Tweet, he then replied that it was one of many reasons why there should be "larger & more advanced rockets!"

One of many reasons why we need larger & more advanced rockets!  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) May 2, 2021

Related Article: Could Elon Musk's 'To The Moon' Be About TSLA and Not $DOGE? Tesla Bull Investigates

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Written by Urian B.

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Despite falling a little bit short of going toe-to-toe with the RTX 3000 series, AMD and its RDNA2 GPUs are likely going to experience a crazy performance jump come the next generation.

WCCFTech reports that various rumors are afoot considering the future launch of the successor to the RX 6000 series of GPUs from AMD. Also called Navi 33, RDNA3 is allegedly going to feature a massive 80 compute units and 5120 stream processors.

The information comes from an industry insider called KittyYuko, who is considered a reliable leaker. This person notably leaked correct information about the RTX 3000 Ampere GPUs months before they launched, which bodes well for this news.

This leak comes after AMD themselves promised that they will ramp up production on their RX 6000 graphics cards to try and combat the global GPU shortage. Considering that, production facilities may soon have the ability to develop what may become the RX 7000 series for the next generation.

Read also: RX 6900 XT OC Formula: Asrock's New Beast Of A GPU

On to the Future

It's also worth noting that AMD EVP for Computing and Graphics Rick Bergman revealed that with the launch of Navi 3X (and likely Navi 33), the company is taking the same path they did with their Polaris GPUs, as reported by VideoCardz. Enthusiasts will remember that AMD took this order: Polaris 10, 20, and 30. And with Navi 10 (Radeon RX 5000) and Navi 20 (Radeon RX 6000) already out, it can be safe to say we're in for an imminent reveal of the RX 7000 series.

AMD didn't, however, confirm what type of node they'll be using to manufacture their next-gen RDNA3 chips. Insiders say it can be a toss-up between 7nm+ or 5nm. AMD only calls the fabrication node as "Advanced Node," so there is no confirmation yet. But according to the company's GPU roadmap, fans can likely expect the RX 7000 series to come sometime next year.

Specs-wise, the rumored RX 7000 cards could offer an insane performance jump from previous generation, meaning they may be able to trade blows with the RTX 4000 series. That 80 CU and 5210-core tale? Well, with an MCM solution, the card itself can feature double the hardware at a maximum CU count of 160 with 10240 stream processors. That's frankly insane.

Focusing On Fixing Current-Gen

By "fixing," we mean making their current-generation Radeon GPUs more accessible to the public. AMD has made great strides in creating extremely powerful graphics cards that can overclock like champs-such as the RX 6900 XT-but it's very disappointing that no ordinary consumer can get them.

For now, fans can expect the launch of mobile RDNA 2 GPUs in Q2 2021 (which is going to last until June) as reported by TweakTown. With the global chip shortage severely hampering production, enthusiasts can't really expect more news about Navi 33 to come soon. For now, people will be stuck with trying to find alternatives to ride out the GPU shortage, which isn't going to end anytime soon.

Related: 2021 GPU Shortage Will Continue Until The End Of The Year According To NVIDIA; iGPUs And APUs To The Rescue

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Written by RJ Pierce

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
(Photo : Screenshot From Commons.Wikipedia.org) SpaceX Starlink 26th Satellite Batch KYC Launch: Here's How to Watch It Live

For those well aware of what's happening in the skies, there are launches after launches after launches all trying to accomplish different things. One of these launches isn't technically for exploring outer space but rather for improving the internet connection on Earth!

Upcoming Space Flights 2021

The Kennedy Space Center or KYC space center as well as the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station are two launch sites that are pretty popular and are oftentimes being visited just so people could watch live rockets launch. While it might be hard for some people to travel all the way there just to watch rockets launch, seeing the launch online is also another viable option.

According to the post by StAugustine, there are a lot of launches scheduled for the Kennedy Space Center and the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station with the soonest launch coming this May 4!

Here are the upcoming KYC space center and Cape Canaveral Air Force Station launches:

SpaceX now plans to launch its upcoming 26th batch of satellites aboard the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from the KYC Kennedy Space Center Launch Complex 25.

Starlink SpaceX launch: May 4, 2021 at 2:30 PM

SpaceX plans to launch another Falcon 9 rocket and Cargo Dragon Capsule for a resupply mission to the International Space Station launching from the Kennedy Space Center Launch Complex 39A.

SpaceX launch: June 3

United Launch Alliance is planning to launch the new Atlas V Boeing CST-100 Starliner crewed flight test from the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Space Launch Complex 41.

United Launch Alliance launch: September (specific date and time are yet to be announced)

United Launch Alliance plans to launch the upcoming Atlas V Lucy from the official Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Space Launch Complex 41. The Atlas V Lucy will use boosts coming from Earth's gravity in order to undergo a whole 12-year journey towards eight different asteroids.

United Launch Alliance launch: October 16 (specific time of the launch is yet to be announced)

Read Also: Elon Musk Confirms Reason Behind Needing Bigger Rockets: NASA Simulation Shows Earth Can't Handle Asteroid Impact

How to watch SpaceX launch online

For those wishing to watch the SpaceX flights, most of the time, it is uploaded to the official SpaceX website. Launches are also oftentimes covered by the official SpaceX YouTube channel where users can easily watch whichever SpaceX missions are available. Although the SpaceX Starlink is one of the company's biggest projects, since it is about providing internet connection to the Earth instead of exploring outer space even more, the missions are oftentimes overlooked.

Starlink is still a couple of thousand of satellites before it will be able to provide global internet satellite services and fix the problem it aims to solve which is the lack of internet for most places. With the internet readily available via satellite, remote areas will finally be able to gain access to internet connection. At least, this is what Starlink aims to accomplish.

Related Article: China Makes Moves to Reach Interstellar Space by the Mid-Century

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 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
NASA has officially named Sen. Bill Nelson as the space agency's 14th administrator last April 29, which revamps the focus of the National Space Council with its head being Vice President Kamala Harris. Sen. Nelson thinks the Vice President is the perfect fit for the role, something that Harris was excited about, as she steps up as its new leader.

The National Space Council was disbanded last 1993, only to be reestablished last 2017 during former President Donald Trump's leadership that aims to improve the country's space missions and explorations. While NASA has been into developing its space program for a long time now, the reestablishment of this council has significantly helped in furthering it.

NASA's Commercial Crew Program was established in 2011, and with the help of the different agencies and councils behind it, it grew to a massive venture that has now employed ULA and SpaceX for furthering its development. The National Space Council also plans on furthering this, and it would happen as soon as possible for the growth of US space exploration.

Read Also: NASA Discovers 'Sunspots' Forming on the Sun, Sprays of Plasma Seen on Surface-Is this Dangerous?

VP Kamala Harris Leads National Space Council, Steps Up

The National Space Council is a different division from NASA, as this is an executive body under the President of the United States, which would focus more on space exploration and developing its research. NASA would work alongside the National Space Council and its new leader, Vice President Kamala Harris for this new era.

The confirmation of the vice president's involvement was through her tweets, which she enthusiastically shared among her constituents, saying that she aims to "plant our flag" on the lunar surface. This highly suggests that the National Space Council would have a massive role in the upcoming Artemis Moon Mission by NASA in 2024.

As I've said before: In America, when we shoot for the moon, we plant our flag on it. I am honored to lead our National Space Council.  Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) May 1, 2021

The appointment of VP Harris has a massive impact on the future of space exploration and travel, particularly because it is a direct connection to the current leadership and administration of the country. The statement of VP Harris also suggests that America would have a more active role in its stakes in space, compared to the previous years of laying low.

NASA Artemis Moon Mission: First Joint Mission?

While the National Space Council has not yet released any information regarding the ventures or proposed missions under its new reign with the Vice President, the tweet suggested its involvement for Artemis. Before the Biden-Harris administration, NASA Artemis was already in the works, and it marks #LaunchAmerica to return to the lunar surface since Apollo.

Related Article: Blue Origin Protests NASA's Moon Mission Deal With SpaceX

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 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
McCracken Man Arrested After Altercation

By West Kentucky Star Staff

MCCRACKEN COUNTY - A McCracken County man was arrested on a firearm charge following an altercation.Deputies were called to a home on Gholson Road. One of the people involved told deputies that the other man involved was 41-year-old Victor Jang.Deputies learned Jang had an outstanding warrant for failure to appear in McCracken Circuit Court on a previous charge of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.Police located the home where Jang was said to be. They observed Jang arrive in a vehicle that was described to deputies, and he was taken into custody without incident.Deputies learned that Jang had a firearm in the vehicle as he was arrested.Jang was taken to the McCracken County Regional Jail, charged on the failure to appear warrant, and a new charge of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Apple Watch could get a substantial upgrade in its health-monitoring features. A United Kingdom startup SEC filing suggests that the wearable might have blood sugar, alcohol levels tracking, among others, in 2022.

U.K. startup Rockley Photonics, in a report by The Telegraph of the SEC filing, revealed its close relationship with Apple. The latter is one of the largest customers of the British company in 2019 and 2020 and will continue to be so in the coming years, a report by Apple Insider says.

Rockley will continue to rely on its revenue stream through its agreement with Apple of "supply and development," CEO Andrew Rickman said, via an Apple Insider report.

The report surfaced after Rockley was gearing up to go public in New York.

The British startup is known for developing sensors for measuring blood glucose, pressure, and even alcohol levels. Thus, the SEC documents raise the possibility of additional features for Apple's smartwatch in the future.

Read Also: New Study Rules Apple Watch to be 'Clinically Trusted' Over Heart Beat Disease Detection from Data

Apple Watch's Needleless Glucose Monitoring is the Future

Apple Watch, currently, could measure the heart rate which is effective in monitoring patients with cardiovascular diseases, a study claims.

On the other hand, glucose monitoring, which could be helpful for people with diabetes is not yet available. If Apple could put this feature to life, it is a significant development in wearables.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data shows that 1 out of 10 Americans have encountered diabetes.

Just imagine the absence of needles in detecting high blood sugar. Diabetes patients would no longer jab themselves.

Apple Watch with Blood Pressure Tracking

As Rockley also develops technology in measuring blood pressure, the possibility of it on the Apple Watch is something to look forward to.

The features could generally help smartwatch users monitor their stress levels. It could also save someone's skin from the risk of heart diseases and stroke, as per the CDC

Every year, according to the CDC, more than 700,000 Americans experience a stroke. Additionally, 1 in every 6 deaths of cardiovascular diseases is due to stroke.

It only shows that a readily available blood pressure monitoring could assist the general public.

Controlling Alcohol Addiction with Apple Watch

Alcohol abuse in America is a prevailing problem, according to the American Addiction Centers. Thankfully, Rockley also ventures into monitoring alcohol levels.

The Apple Watch could soon be the buddy for people trying to keep their consumption in moderation.

Apple is also exerting efforts to detect flu and Covid 19 through its smartwatch as the Covid 19 pandemic lingers. The company teamed up with researchers to make this feature possible.

Related Article: Apple WatchOS 7.4's New Key Features: Fixing 'Not Enough Space' Update Issue

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Volkswagen is borrowing a page out of Apple and Tesla's books, particularly as the company reveals that it is on-the-works for designing its self-driving chips for its electric vehicles that would come soon. This venture is in response to the rising chip shortage of 2021, which has affected a massive number of industries and companies to deliver its tech.

One of the most affected by the chip shortage that has ensued since the COVID-19 pandemic struck was the car manufacturing industry, especially the modern and advanced ones, the electric vehicles. Initially, this problem was seen with Chevrolet's Bolt EV 2021, which has failed to deliver its needed units for sale to the public, with some unable to receive them yet.

It has been a massive problem for companies to develop their tech, especially as the semiconductors are integral ones to the function of the product.

Read Also: Volkswagen's EV Charging Robots has 25kWh Batter Packs with 50KW DC Fast Charging for Parking Lots-No More Installation!

Volkswagen to Manufacture Chips for Self-Driving Tech

Volkswagen CEO Herbert Diess has recently revealed this venture to Handelsblatt in an interview, saying that the company is reinforcing its technology to have a self-made chip for its latest venture for its EVs. This would focus on a self-driving chip that would be used to control the autonomous driving feature of its vehicles that would come soon.

While Project NEO would not be seeing this anymore (or it would probably in the future), Project Trinity would be the recipients of this technology, as the next-generation electric vehicles from Volkswagen. This venture could also possibly lift Volkswagen as a self-sustaining company that does not rely on others for the creation of its technology.

This could also mean that Volkswagen could have the power to set the parameters and features of the self-driving technology, and not adhere to designers from other companies. According to Autoblog (Reuters), the venture might be made by Volkswagen, but manufacturing would still be carried out by a third-party partner.

Apple's M1 and Tesla's Self-Driving: Unaffected by Chip Shortage

Apple and Tesla were one of the proponents of self-sustainability in modern technology, particularly as both companies have designed their semiconductor chips to be used for their devices.

On the other hand, Tesla has also taken this venture to design its chip for Autopilot and FSD, something which Volkswagen is on the track to create for its EVs.

Related Article: VW's Recent ID.4 Takes on Model Y!-German EV Gives Better Space and Cheaper than Tesla

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Written by Isaiah Richard

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
China's Long March 5 or Long March-5B Y2 rocket, which carried its Tiangon Space Station's module called "Harmony of the Heavens," could crash into Earth's atmosphere. Experts claim that some of the rocket's debris could hit some popular areas.

Previously, the Asian country hailed its Long March 5 launch as successful since it was able to bring the "Harmony of the Heavens" or Tianhe, which will serve as the hub of China's upcoming space station, into orbit.

However, some experts claimed that this 21-ton rocket could make an uncontrollable reentry into Earth's atmosphere in the next few days. Here's why this could happen.

China's Long March 5 Could Crash Back to Earth

China is expecting that its Long March 5 will fall into a designated spot in the ocean. This method is used by private and international space companies so that the rocket's debris will not endanger people's lives.

Also Read: SpaceX Starlink 26th Satellite Batch KYC Launch: Here's How to Watch It Live

However, the Long March 5 rocket is currently orbiting the planet in an uncontrolled manner. Because of this, authorities expect the possible uncontrolled reentry of the Chinese rocket will cause debris to fall onto populated areas, which could endanger some properties and residents on the ground.

As of the moment, China hasn't identified the exact places at risk, as reported by Slash Gear. Right now, some experts criticize the Long March 5.

Astronomer Jonathan McDowell, who usually tracks spacecraft and other objects orbiting space, said that Long March 5's uncontrolled reentry is unacceptable since there is not rocket over ten tons has been left to orbit Earth in an uncontrolled manner ever since 1990.

China to Copy Starship Rocket?

According to Universe Today's latest report, one of China's main rocket manufacturers could develop a Starship-like spacecraft. This info was revealed in the video titled "One Hour Global Arrival in the Space Transportation System."

The footage was presented by the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology (CALT), which is one of the country's main state-owned rocket developers, during the Change'e-5 mission festivities. If you want to know more details, all you need to do is click here.

For more news updates about China's upcoming space station and other space missions, always keep your tabs open here at TechTimes.

Related Article: China Chang'e 6 Lunar Exploration 2024: European Countries' Tech to be Showcased

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Written by: Griffin Davis

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Mother's Day is just right around the corner. If you are having a hard time finding the perfect present for your beloved mother or for mom friends, here are some of the best gadgets you can buy for her.

Best Tech Gifts for Mother's Day

These items are great for mothers, especially for new ones. These techs can help moms do things needed to care for their new borns. On the other hand, some of these devices can also help them moms with the rough adjustments they need since they are now entering the mother role.

To help you before Mother's Day arrives on May 9, here are the best tech gifts you can choose from.

Smart Breast Pump

Engadget reported that the Smart Breast Pump by Elvie or Willow, is one of the best gadgets you can give to a new mother. These wearable pumps will let her stay on schedule of feeding her baby while allowing her hands to be free to do anything throughout the day.

Also Read: Amazon Prime Day Happening in 'June' as COVID-19 Eases Down on Lockdown Restrictions Unlike 2020

This egg-shaped device contains all the essential features and parts needed to help a new mom during breastfeeding or pumping. The Smart Breast Pumo has a pump, container, and power supply. It can also be connect it to an app via Bluetooth.

Smartphone's Privacy Screen

Aside from the Smart Breast Pump, moms would also enjoy a Privacy Screen for their smartphones. This is really helpful since toddlers at 14 months are already aware of the things they see.

If moms don't have a Privacy Screen, their mobile devices could be the next target of their toddlers' curiosity. Zagg and SightPro are among the best Privacy Screen providers that you can trust.

Wabi Baby 3-in-1 Sanitizer

Toddlers typically still use pacifiers, teethers, and other things they need to put in their mouths. Because of this, mothers need to make sure that all their baby stuffs are sanitized properly.

The Wabi Baby 3-in-1 Sanitizer can help moms save time. This gadget only takes up a fair amount of counter space. It also doesn't make too much noise when cleaning a wide variety of dinnerware, accessories, bottles, and other things needed when taking care of a toddler.

Other Gadgets Mothers Would Love

Aside from the mentioned devices about, CNET also provided other gadgets you can buy for your mother or mom friends. Here are some of them:

Nixplay smart digital photo frame

Noise-canceling headphones

Powerbeats Pro wireless earbuds

Nintendo Switch with Ring Fit Adventure

Apple Watch SE

For more news updates about the upcoming Mother's Day and other related stories, always keep your tabs open here at TechTimes.

Related Articles: 9 Mother's Day Gift Ideas That Moms Would Actually Use

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Written by: Griffin Davis

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Tehachapi, CA (93561)

Today

Some clouds this morning will give way to generally sunny skies for the afternoon. High 69F. Winds NW at 15 to 25 mph. Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph..

Tonight

Clear skies. Low 41F. Winds WNW at 15 to 25 mph. Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph.
One Dead, Two Hurt in West McCracken Crash

By West Kentucky Star Staff

PADUCAH - A crash on US-62 Saturday afternoon claimed the life of a Texas man and injured two others.Kentucky State Police Post 1 said troopers from the crash reconstruction team responded Saturday afternoon after getting a call from the McCracken County Sheriff's Office about a two-vehicle collision near the intersection of KY-286 and US-62 in West Paducah.The investigation reportedly revealed 20-year-old Guillermo Miranda, of Cedar Creek, TX was traveling east on US-62 when his vehicle crossed the centerline and struck an oncoming semi driven by 44-year-old Sanjeev Joseph, of Clovis, CA. Troopers said Joseph attempted to brake, but was unable to avoid colliding with Miranda.Miranda was pronounced dead at the scene by the McCracken County Coroner's Office. A juvenile passenger in Miranda's vehicle was airlifted by Air Evac to Skyline Medical Center in Nashville. Joseph was transported to Mercy Health Lourdes Hospital in Paducah for treatment.
More than 1,100 prisoners in Louisiana received $6.2 million in state and federal unemployment benefits that they did not appear to be eligible to get, a Louisiana Legislative Auditor's Office report says.

The most recent audit, released Monday, represents less than 1% of unemployment benefits paid in Louisiana since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic.

The auditor previously found that nearly 100,000 individuals received at least $405.3 million in unemployment benefits, perhaps more, that the state's workforce agency claims were due to sophisticated criminal attacks to circumvent the state agency's system.

State employees parsed through 714,446 applications for unemployment benefits between the end of March 2020 and March 31, a period in which $8.14 billion in state and federal benefits was paid to recipients across Louisiana.

Of that total, $1.5 billion was paid from the state's unemployment trust fund to 492,242 individuals. The remaining $6.6 billion was federal money administered by Louisiana to 702,050 individuals. Some people could have been in both state and federal programs.

The latest auditor's analysis combed through individuals who were incarcerated between January 2020 and November 2020, trying to match ineligible applicants.

The Louisiana Workforce Commission said it routinely weeds out anyone who is incarcerated, and therefore ineligible for unemployment benefits. The agency does that once a week through a national database that it said encompasses 99% of those in prison or jail.

"We found 92 individuals received only one week of benefits while they were incarcerated, which may indicate LWC identified them through its weekly data match and stopped payments," Legislative Auditor Michael Waguespack said in a letter about the report.

But 1,103 individuals received unemployment benefits for more than one week, during a period between March 2020 and November 2020, inferring the state's vendor system, Appriss, fell short. Appriss pulls data from 2,000 jails and Department of Corrections facilities and is used by other state agencies to combat fraud.

The state has the power to clawback payments to anyone, even from financial institutions. The state can get that money back by taking any state or federal income refunds and can also refer anyone to the Attorney General's office for further fraud review.

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Of those who applied for benefits that were not eligible, 81% were for those vying for a slice of federal unemployment benefits as "gig workers" and independent contractors. The state doesn't have employment records to cross-check for "those types workers, which is the usual process. As such, the state says these individuals took advantage of the self-reporting system under the benefits for independent contractors.

"LWC indicated these potentially improper payments occurred because its data match between its unemployment benefit information and its vendors incarceration data did not work correctly." The agency is working with its vendor to identify and resolve the issue, Waguespack said in his letter.

The Louisiana Workforce Commission's top leader, Ava Cates, noted that individuals who enter the correctional system are a "prime pool of individuals to get their identity stolen and used for fraudulent unemployment claims. These individuals are generally not in the position to monitor activity surrounding their personal identifying information."

Cates said an initial review indicates some individuals were incarcerated for a "very short period of time," less than a week, and filed for benefits unknowingly that they were not eligible for.

In some cases, individuals were incarcerated after their initial unemployment benefits application and "someone else continues to file on their behalf." Others knew about an unemployment claim, but the money was going to somebody else. Sometimes, though, those in the correctional system are in on the scheme, the state said.

We have zero-tolerance for criminals who exploit our systems at the expense of Louisianians, Cates said in a news release, noting that there are criminal networks that have targeted unemployment benefits across the nation.

The state has turned over more than 35,000 cases of suspected fraud to law enforcement.

Louisiana sent over $405M in unemployment benefits to people not eligible to receive it Nearly 100,000 people received $405.3 million in unemployment benefits to which they were not entitled and the numbers are probably much large
Baton Rouge resident Amber Jones was elated to discover she was pregnant, especially after a tough year when she battled COVID-19 at home. The news of a baby on the way prompted her to get more focused about applying for a new job  especially one that pays more than minimum wage.

"I don't want to work in fast food," said Jones, 19, having done it before and feeling unappreciated.

With her fiancee paying the bills as a landscaper, Jones has been taking online classes at Baton Rouge Community College to earn her GED, while having difficulty applying for a variety of positions, from restaurants to cleaning jobs, and also at local casinos but found jobs there would require her to be 21 years old. She has worked previously braiding hair and as a home health caregiver, being paid minimum wage, but hopes to earn at least $9 an hour to help with finances, be independent and care for her child. She aspires to be a lawyer.

"I know that I'm a hard-working person. But nowadays you have to be certified to do anything," she said. "I always look for 'no experience' (required) jobs. There's a lot of jobs open to apply for, but they don't ever get back to you, even if it's on their website. They say we already hired somebody."

Contrast her trouble getting a job against the struggle businesses are having finding workers  some of whom have pivoted toward pursuing better-paying careers or furthering their education during the pandemic.

At The Velvet Cactus, General Manager Joel Justice has been working in the kitchen to help with staff shortage, and this week is preparing for one of the American Mexican restaurant industry's biggest times of year, the Cinco de Mayo celebration. He's even cut the most time-consuming items off the menu to ease the kitchen's burden.

Before the pandemic, cooks made roughly $11 an hour, but now are making between $13 to $18 hourly depending on experience and tenure with the company.

"Everybody has gotten a raise at least once and we're trying to incentivize staff referrals. We want to take care of the people that we have," Justice said. "And I get it, it's hot, hard work."

"We've been doing open job fairs every Wednesday, except for this week," Justice said. "I had interviewed 19 people and two people were offered jobs $2 an hour more than they asked for, but they never showed up for training."

And there lies the disconnect between workers and businesses that employers are trying to overcome now that pandemic restrictions are being lifted and activity is accelerating. The pandemic hit the service sector hardest, leaving hundreds of thousands jobless early during the lockdown and at the mercy of their savings, government relief checks and unemployment compensation, while professional jobs remained largely in tact.

In some ways, the labor market is splitting itself towards either highly specialized jobs or low-wage service jobs.

"There are two types of jobs open right now, high-wage jobs we don't have enough people for like those who are nurses or have a CDL drivers license. And retail jobs," said Andrew Fitzgerald, senior director of business intelligence at the Baton Rouge Area Chamber.

"I do think that there's a skills mismatch; that's why we put out a short-term training guide," designed to inform jobseekers and employers about educational offerings for "upskilling and reskilling," he said.

"The pandemic is terrible but it might spark more entrepreneurship," he added.

Truck drivers, nurse jobs in demand in Baton Rouge Truck drivers and registered nurses were the two occupations with the highest demand for workers in metro Baton Rouge, according to an analysi

With the passage of two coronavirus relief packages that put checks in people's pockets and increased unemployment benefits, "workers on the lower end of the spectrum (temporarily) felt more secure financially in their entire life, so they had more flexibility," Fitzgerald said.

Households are not in such bad shape as during the Great Recession and consumer spending has remained strong, he said.

"There's not scarcity or pressure," he said.

Some businesses blame the federal relief payments and larger unemployment benefits as a disincentive for workers to get back into the labor force, though tens of thousands across the state had trouble even qualifying for compensation and many never received a dime.

Weve got quite a bit of work and were just looking to fill some positions.

It's been very, very difficult to hire people here, said Jake Scheramie, general manager of Houma-based Encore Food Services, which is looking to hire 50 workers as night cooks and galley hands on offshore oil platforms. "We have tons of people who apply and then they don't show up for the interview. (I think) they want to say they applied to maintain unemployment (benefits)," he said.

"Employers will likely have to wait until September when the (current extra $300 federal unemployment) enhancement expires, but they will also likely just have to pay higher wages," Fitzgerald said.

Unemployment is more lucrative for some Louisiana workers. How is that impacting businesses? Some small businesses are finding success with a federal loan program to stay afloat, while others are having difficulty luring workers back o

One problem for restaurants and the service sector is "many of these jobs are often snapped up by college students," said Jay Ducote, owner of Gov't Taco in Baton Rouge. "Not all of the students at LSU and Southern are physically going to class  some are living at home and going to class online.

Things wont get back to normal until we get some of those college kids looking for a job back," Ducote said.

New Orleans area native Anna Groom, 24, saw first-hand the liberating impact of the extra $600 unemployment benefit that was in effect last summer and more recently the $1,400 federal relief check Americans received. But that didn't keep her from heading back to work and pursuing a longer-term dream.

"That felt like a lot of money," said Groom, whose car was bought for only $500. "I would have loved to have been in the position to flip it. You could make some financial moves for $1,400, but it's just not enough to just not go to work," she said.

Groom, who has worked as a receptionist in a law firm, in life insurance and in retail sales, was a substitute teacher before the pandemic, taking home roughly $8.50 an hour. She moved out of her apartment and in with her mother to save money.

"I was in limbo for a while quarantining, but I just got really antsy and unhappy with being so unproductive," she said.

Groom started working in restaurants for the first time in August, at a Creole restaurant and at a French Quarter fine-dining establishment, upwards of 60 hours a week combined. She recently left the Creole restaurant to focus on fine dining, where she got a raise. She's able to make about three times what she made as a substitute teacher.

"I'm in the process of saving; I don't like to struggle unless I have to," Groom said. "This is just a transition period. I've never been around people with this kind of money in my life and it's only going to get better," she said of the job in fine dining.

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Her dream is to sell her art as prints in a gallery.

The economic recovery is proving to be one in which businesses are the ones under pressure and are having to adapt and step up their efforts.

In addition to offering employees bonuses for referring workers and increasing its pay, Gov't Taco decided earlier this month to close on Mondays, in addition to Sundays, until at least through Memorial Day.

We were having to call people in who were not scheduled to be on, Ducote said. That led to employees getting overtime working Friday and Saturday. Friday and Saturday are way more important to us than Monday, he said.

It seems like its probably a nationwide problem. Ive talked to chef friends in Texas, Alabama, Washington, D.C.  its really hard to find good reliable help that wants to come to work right now," Ducote said. Its been a detriment to the restaurant industry, I know for sure. But grocery stores, retail, landscape companies, really across the board.

The chamber's Fitzgerald analyzed local job postings in a recent report. While truck drivers and registered nurses were in most demand, customer service representatives came in at No. 3 across Louisiana as of February. After that, there were several thousand job openings for first-line supervisors, retail sales workers, fast food and store stockers, according to statewide data compiled by BRAC.

Louisiana's economy rebounding faster than predicted but there's a long way to go Economic forecasts for Louisiana have gotten increasingly optimistic in the past few months as the economy rebounded faster than predicted but

There were hundreds of jobs across the state paying less than $15 an hour posted on the Louisiana Workforce Commission's online job portal. The state agency boasts there are thousands of job openings and is regularly hosting job fairs.

Sanderson Farms is looking to fill 50 jobs in Hammond at $14.95 per hour for line worker operators. The job requires a high school diploma and experience working on a meat processing line is preferred, according to the mid-April job posting. But the work itself is described as "physically demanding" and employees should expect to be working either in 55-degree buildings or outside at temperatures that include the heat of the summer.

Meanwhile, a greeter or concierge at Ochsner, the largest health system in the state, could get pay between $21,000 and $39,000 per year, or between $10.77 and $19.50 per hour.

Valluzzo Companies, which operates 78 McDonald's restaurants in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama, has been trying to hire workers for months. The company recently hosted a drive-thru job fair in the Hammond area, and its Drusilla location in Baton Rouge was touting $10-an-hour wages.

Were trying to think outside of the box, said Megan Pratt, spokesperson for Valluzzo.

Valluzzo also offers tuition assistance programs and next-day pay so employees dont have to wait two weeks to get a check, alongside "premium pay" for certain shifts.

Workers willing to go in the Gulf of Mexico serving food to oil platform contractors can get a premium, even for entry-level work at Encore Food Services. A major hurdle is that individuals must pass a drug test, even for medical marijuana, as a requirement for the job.

"We have a pay range from minimum wage all the way to $18 to $20 an hour" and provide health insurance, said Scheramine, the Encore general manager.

The 12-hour shifts for two-week stints, with two weeks off in between, means that even an $8-an-hour job could yield more hours and higher pay than a traditional service job, he said. "We've got guys who have lawn care or pressure-washing services on their weeks off," he said.

Baton Rouge resident Lacey Dyess decided to pivot when the pandemic hit last year.

Dyess, 28, had been working full-time in a court reporting agency job, and was juggling three part-time jobs as a server, barista and bartender for various restaurants. Including the side gigs, she was earning roughly $47,000, with about $32,000 of that from the full-time court reporting job.

But she didn't have health insurance and was afraid of getting sick. When she got called by local eateries, more often than not she turned them down, asking herself: Do I want to risk it for the biscuit?"

"I would say if I got sick it would truly bankrupt me," she said. "There was a period of time in the beginning of the pandemic where some of the servers or bartenders were getting COVID-19 themselves, alongside everyone on shift with them."

Dyess dropped the part-time jobs, reworked her budget and is focused on community college and transferring to a four-year university.

"I started to take a look at where I am now and where I need to be to become financially comfortable and decided that I would have to finish my degree," Dyess said.

Zachary resident Janice Spears, 35 and mother of three children, was working as a security guard for a local prison when she resigned to get emergency surgery last year. She rehabilitated herself over the past year, even without short-term disability. Spears was hesitant to return to work at the prison during the pandemic because she didn't want her children to get sick and had to teach them school remotely.

"Wages are important and the work environment  is it safe and clean  right now you have to think about your health," she said.

The $13-an-hour prison job paid the bills, but was hardly a "livable wage," she said. "It should have been more pay because of the job description," she said.

"I was debating about going back to school but I've got bills to pay too," she said.

Spears had one semester of college, but had to drop out to take care of a child who is partially blind in both eyes. She rents an apartment and has been selling wreaths and other crafts to pay her bills. She did not receive any unemployment benefits.

Now that all her children are back in school and her son had medical surgery she paid for out of pocket because Medicaid doesn't cover it, she's looking to jump back into the workforce.

She's leaning towards becoming a blackjack dealer at a local casino, which pays $13 an hour and offers free 8-week-long training.

"I'm not being choosy at this point," Spears said.

Spears expects to go back to college if she can't land a job soon and is leaning towards a nursing certification.
Police: Facebook Post False, No Murders at Elmwood

By West Kentucky Star Staff

PADUCAH - A social media post over the weekend about multiple murders in Paducah created quite the stir.A post started circulating about three people being murdered in the Elmwood Court area.The Paducah Police Department took to their Facebook page Sunday to shoot down the rumors."There is a post circulating on Facebook about 3 people being murdered in the Elmwood Court area," the post read. "The information in this post is incorrect. The Paducah Police Department is not investigating any incident of this nature."On Monday morning, a police spokesperson told West Kentucky Star that the body of a female had been found on Center Street, which is several blocks away from Elmwood Court, but foul play was not suspected.The department doesn't issue press releases about deaths related to natural causes, suicide, overdose, or anything that isn't related to a crime.
Debris is scooped up for removal as crews with Lloyd D. Nabors Demolition LLC work on one side of the former Mervyns store at Cortana Mall during March.

For the third time in the last four months, the number of jobs in metro Baton Rouge posted a month-to-month decline.

There were 300 fewer people working in Baton Rouge in March, bringing the total number of jobs to 387,400. Thats down 21,000 or 5.1% from the 408,400 jobs in March 2020.
Ochsner Health System lost the first round of a legislative battle with Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center, physicians groups and other hospitals over the use of non-compete provisions in doctors contracts Monday, with a Louisiana House panel advancing two proposals aimed at restricting the practice.

The House Commerce Committee advanced House Bill 483, by Covington Republican Rep. Mark Wright, to restrict the use of non-compete agreements for physicians. The bill is backed by the Louisiana State Medical Society and the Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady, which oversees Our Lady of the Lake, among others.

Ochsner Health System is a staunch believer in non-compete agreements, deploying them regularly with physicians they employ. Ochsner and other defenders of the practice say it lets hospitals like Ochsner limit risk, ensuring they arent investing big money into training and supporting doctors only to see them leave and take their patients to another nearby clinic.

Backers of Wrights bill counter that non-compete agreements force doctors out of the state, especially as Ochsner has grown its footprint to include a wide swath of Louisiana. Many of the provisions say that once an Ochsner doctor leaves, they cant work for two years in any parish where Ochsner has a presence. Wright called the situation untenable for doctors and said his bill represents a compromise.

A doctor who was employed for 10 or even 20 years who resigns or was terminated must leave their home for a period of two years in order to continue the practice of medicine, said Dr. Katherine Williams, head of the Louisiana State Medical Society.

Inside the fight among Louisiana's major hospital systems and why it might become public soon A behind-the-scenes war between some of the states largest health systems could soon spill into public view at the State Capitol, after month

Dr. Robert Hart, chief medical officer at Ochsner, said his company makes big investments in its doctors, and noted that doctors usually have their lawyers review the provisions before signing.

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"The physicians do have attorneys when they come in. Theyre educated people ... everyone that recruits against us uses that as a tool to dissuade people from joining us. Were willing to make that sacrifice. We lose some people because of our non-compete.

Wrights bill would put several limits on non-compete agreements, including a time limit and a buyout provision for certain doctors. It would also exempt rural hospitals that use non-competes from the limits; rural hospital operators wanted to keep the ability to use the provisions.

Legislative leaders, including Senate President Page Cortez, had tried to get Ochsner and Our Lady of the Lake, as well as other opponents of non-competes, to come to the table ahead of the session to work out a deal. But the two sides never reached an agreement.

The panel also advanced House Bill 561, by Rep. Larry Bagley, R-Stonewall, that would ban the use of non-compete agreements for public institutions. That was in response to the use of non-competes by LSU Health Sciences Center Shreveport, which has partnered with Ochsner.

LSU even sued an OB-GYN doctor this year after she left the public teaching hospital to work at Willis-Knighton. A judge ruled against LSU in the case.

Gov. John Bel Edwards, a Democrat, hasn't taken a position on the bill. Spokesperson Christina Stephens said the bill will likely change before arriving at his desk.
A legislative panel on Monday advanced a hotly contested proposal backed by the oil and petrochemical industries to rework the oversight of river pilots who guide ships up and down the Mississippi River, a bill that represents the latest power struggle between the pilots and industry.

The Louisiana Chemical Association and Louisiana Mid-Continent Oil and Gas Association are pushing House Bill 650, which would make a host of changes to the rules governing pilots. Among them: it would add businesspeople to the regulatory boards of the Crescent pilots and New Orleans Baton Rouge Steamship pilots, or NOBRA, two of the three main organizations of pilots working the lower Mississippi. Both boards are currently made up of three pilots.

The measure, and particularly that provision, drew heated backlash from the pilots, who testified Monday that HB650 was dangerous and would jeopardize safety on the river. Crescent pilots handle ships between Pilottown and New Orleans, and NOBRA handles the ships between New Orleans and Baton Rouge. Those two groups are the main opponents of the bill.

The pilots on the Mississippi River make, on average, more than $500,000 a year, and some of the pilots have exceeded $700,000 in recent years. The rising fees have drawn scrutiny from the industries who pay for their service.

Commerce Chairwoman Paula Davis, R-Baton Rouge, said she would convene a meeting of industry groups, pilots and Pressly to discuss their differences in the coming days. The Commerce Committee advanced the bill without objection to the full House Monday, after multiple lawmakers told the pilots they think some reforms should be put into place.

River pilots vs. big industry: War over 6-figure pay is about to get plenty more attention The petrochemical industry has long battled with the river pilots who help steer ships up and down the Mississippi River, mostly over the larg

I think some reform is needed, said Rep. Edmond Jordan, D-Baton Rouge, who complained about the lack of diversity in the river pilots ranks. I think how that looks, reasonable minds can agree or disagree.

Representatives for the Crescent and NOBRA pilots argued the bill would jeopardize safety by putting non-pilots on the board that investigates accidents and the like. They also acknowledged they have struggled to hire minorities and women, though they pointed to some modest progress recently.

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You wouldnt want to put people on our board of examiners to train apprentice pilots or set rules or do investigations because they wouldnt be qualified, said Steve Hathorn, head of the NOBRA pilots association. It would be like one of yall coming to investigate a ship collision. Its just not practical.

Michael Bopp, president of the Crescent pilots association, said the bill would value corporate profits over public safety.

Proponents of the bill have negotiated with pilots to try to reach an agreement over the bill, and on Monday, Pressly agreed to an amendment to replace one of the industry members of the regulatory boards with a representative of the Coast Guard. That was aimed at addressing the complaints of pilots who said representatives of the oil or petrochemical industry could pressure pilots to make unsafe maneuvers to get their cargo to its destination sooner. If the bill passed in its current form, the boards would be composed of a pilot, a Coast Guard representative and a businessperson nominated by the Baton Rouge Area Chamber and Greater New Orleans Inc.

Tyler Gray, head of the Louisiana Mid-Continent Oil and Gas Association, criticized the nepotism within pilotage ranks, and the outsized pay the pilots rake in. Many of the commissioned pilots are related to other pilots; the associations vote on which members to admit into their group.

The operations of the Crescent and NOBRA pilots, including the regulation and establishment of new pilots, are governed by the members of the individual monopolies with little public input or transparency, Gray said. The legislation would require the pilot groups to submit a list of pilots who are related to other pilots or public officials each year to lawmakers and the governor.

Industry groups were miffed last summer when the Crescent pilots asked for a significant pay hike, which would increase the average pilot's pay to $697,000 a year, depending on how much work they do. The chemical and oil and gas associations involved in the pilot legislation are fighting that request at the Louisiana Pilotage Fee Commission.

Representatives for Crescent complained the industry groups are simply trying to use the legislation to gain leverage over the pay-hike request.

Gov. John Bel Edwards, a Democrat who benefitted from generous donations from pilots in his 2019 re-election bid, hasnt taken a position on the bill, said spokesperson Christina Stephens, who cited the likelihood the legislation will change significantly before arriving at his desk.
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There are usually two sides to a story, and regarding the May 3 editorial, Id like to respond to what Paul Harvey would call the rest of the story.
The history wars reignited last week when the Australian Curriculum Assessment and Reporting Authority released its draft review of the national education curriculum for public consultation.

Its a complex document, covering every aspect of education from prep upwards, and many of its suggested changes are uncontentious and unremarkable.

Federal Education Minister Alan Tudge. Credit:Meredith OShea

The authoritys recommendations include maths classes having more units on financial literacy; business classes being more about entrepreneurship; more content at all class levels about consent in personal relationships; and primary school students being taught to have a greater awareness of online security.

The authority has also recommended reducing the overall curriculum by about 20 per cent in what chief executive David de Carvalho described as the Marie Kondo treatment  so that regardless of how much content is left in the curriculum, it is properly organised, logical in its presentation and sequence, coherent, clear and easily accessible.
Australia could easily beat its national emissions commitments without further action by the federal government after Victoria set a reduction target of 45-50 per cent by 2030.

The Yallourn power station is set to close in 2028, reducing Victorian emissions. Credit:Vince Caligiuri

Nationally, emissions would fall by 37 per cent of 2005 levels by 2030 if the states met their current goals, an analysis of state commitments by Anna Malos of the ClimateWorks policy advisory group housed at Monash University shows.

At present, the federal government has a target to reduce emissions by 26-28 per cent by 2030, though it is expected to increase this before the United Nations climate talks in Glasgow in November.
Grenade Pulled from Clarks River

By Bill Hughes

PADUCAH - Discovery of what turned out to be a hand grenade led to the closure of Sheehan Bridge Road for about three hours on Monday.McCracken County Sheriff Matt Carter told West Kentucky Star a man was using magnetic fishing gear on Sheehan Bridge and pulled up an object that he believed could be a grenade. The man tied off the object in the Clarks River and called law enforcement about 4:30 pm.Based upon photos of the object, Carter said it wasn't known if it was a live grenade, one that had been rendered harmless, or something that resembled a grenade. The Paducah Police Department's bomb squad came to the scene, investigated, confirmed the object was a grenade, and safely detonated it.Sheehan Bridge Road reopened about 7:30 pm.
A crash involving up to seven vehicles on the Pacific Motorway at Coomera on Tuesday morning caused lengthy delays around the Dreamworld theme park and one man was taken to hospital.

Northbound lanes were closed and police advised motorists to avoid the area after the crash about 4.50am.

Motorists on the Pacific Motorway face lengthy delays after a crash heading northbound at Coomera. Credit:Nine News

A single vehicle was believed to have crashed, with a further six cars becoming involved in an accident at the scene.

One man was taken to Gold Coast University Hospital with head and neck pain and in a stable condition.
We could have been queuing for a reunion gig by one of the acts from our youth  The Pixies, The Cure. Everyone in the line outside the mass vaccination centre at the Royal Exhibition Building had that Generation-X patina: men with grey beards and skinny jeans, women with funky glasses and brightly dyed hair.

I stood there imagining how wed do in a Spicks and Specks music quiz to prove we were over 50 and therefore qualified under rollout phase 2a to get our AstraZeneca doses.

The Royal Exhibition Building in Carlton is one of seven mass vaccination hubs opening to over 50s this week. Credit:Getty Images

Id called the hotline the week before, idly curious about booking in and discovered I could rock up on Monday May 3, the first day, bang on 9am.

My GP could have provided the same service but I wanted to get my shot in the Royal Exhibition Building in Carlton Gardens  such a splendid wedding cake of a pavilion to host such a momentous occasion, with a lead role in our pandemic history.
A sorry saga that started when Solomon Lew attempted to purchase the Thai villa where he proposed to his wife really has developed into the James Joyces Ulysses of international property squabbles.

Credit: John Shakespeare

Readers will recall the legal action kicked off in 2017 over a villa in Phuket after Lew verbally agreed to buy the property, only to find out weeks later it had been sold to a higher bidder  Hong Kong businessman Christian Larpin.

In February, a Singaporean judge sided with Larpin, ruling that Lew had a reasonable expectation to believe he had bought the villa, but the broker who struck the deal didnt have the authority to sell it.

Critically, the judge also ruled that Lew should pay the defendants costs  a fair whack considering there are five defendants including Larpin, his investment vehicle, and the original villa owners, Credit Suisse director Kai Nargolwala and his wife, Aparna.
There have been no new community cases of coronavirus detected in WA overnight, despite Premier Mark McGowan revealing two positive cases delivered food to 100 households while potentially infectious.

The Pan Pacific cluster was discovered on Saturday morning after a routine test on a security guard.

Premier Mark McGowan getting vaccinated on Monday. Credit:Hamish Hastie

It is the second hotel quarantine breach in Perth in as many weeks after a man who isolated at the Mercure sparked a three-day Anzac Day long weekend lockdown.

Two of the Pan Pacific security guards housemates, who are food delivery drivers, tested positive for COVID-19 in the hours after his initial infection was detected, leading Mr McGowan to reinstate mask-wearing outdoors and suspend nightclubbing and crowds at AFL matches on Sunday.
Early last year, when the extent of the pandemic was becoming evident to senior health and government officials around the globe, many nations, including Australia, started putting up walls. By February, the Morrison government had banned entry from China, with the exception of Australian citizens, permanent residents and their immediate families. The following month, international entry bans were extended to most non-citizens. In hindsight, it was the right call.

Patients suffering from Covid-19 are treated with free oxygen at a makeshift clinic in India. Credit:Getty Images

Australias hotel quarantine system was not introduced until late March, and the nation was still coming to grips with the measures that would be needed to keep COVID-19 contained. The learning curve has been enormous ever since. But learnt the nation has. Australia would now comfortably sit near the top of the table when it comes to restricting the spread of the virus. The most potent weapons it has to keep COVID-19 at bay while the vaccine rollout gathers pace are the hotel quarantine system and, when faced with an outbreak, contact-tracing and a willingness of most people to follow the changing social-distancing restrictions.

This has curbed the spread of the virus in Australia, despite concerns over new highly infectious variations and an upsurge in cases in many countries, including Britain and the US.

And yet, more than 12 months after first confronting the virus, Australia has determined to make the walls even higher. For the first time, the national government has made it a crime for a particular group of its own citizens who are in desperate need of help to return home. Any person who has been in India in the previous 14 days has been barred from entry as of Monday. Those who breach the edict face a penalty of up to five years jail or a fine of up to $66,000. Even at a time when drastic measures have almost become the norm, this is an extraordinary step for the federal government to take.
London: Prince Andrew, the Duke of York, is expected to call for a review of his security after intruders were discovered near his residence at Windsor Royal Lodge in the second such incident in a matter of days.

It has emerged a man and a woman were arrested after being found trespassing on the grounds last Sunday, April 25.

The incident comes as police were already facing serious questions after a woman in a taxi talked her way on to the estate after telling security guards she was a friend of Prince Andrew.

Britains Prince Andrew before the Royal Chapel of All Saints at Royal Lodge, Windsor. Credit:AP

It is thought senior officers in charge of security for the Royal Lodge, which is around 7 kilometres from the Queens residence at Windsor Castle, were already assessing its arrangements following the taxi incident.
Squirrel Causes Power Outage in McCracken County

By Tim Brockwell

MCCRACKEN COUNTY - An unlucky squirrel was to blame for a power outage Monday morning in McCracken County.A Jackson Purchase Energy Cooperative employee told West Kentucky Star an outage in the Reidland area during the early morning hours was due to a squirrel creating an electrical short at the Culp substation."It's just one of those things," He said. [Squirrels] find a way to become a bridge for current even when they're not supposed to."Power was restored to JPEC customers shortly after 8 a.m.Paducah Power Director of Community Relations & Marketing at Paducah Andrea Underwood said residents in midtown Paducah also experienced a brief outage at around 1 a.m. due to an unrelated issue at Substation 3. Power was restored for PPS residents by around 1:45 a.m.
Washington: The United States and Iran are in active talks over the release of prisoners, a person familiar with the discussions said as Washington denied a report by Iranian state-run television that deals had been struck.

Prisoner swaps between the US and Iran are not uncommon and both countries in recent years have routinely sought the release of detainees. But any movement between the two countries is particularly sensitive as the Biden administration looks to restart nuclear talks. A 2015 atomic accord between the nations included prisoner exchanges.

Supporters hold a photo of British-Iranian mother Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, whose jail sentence was recently extended by a year. Credit:Getty Images

The issue burst into public view with a report in Iran of a deal for the Islamic Republic to release US and British prisoners in exchange for Tehran receiving billions of dollars. US officials immediately denied the report, though a person with knowledge of the discussions who was not authorised to discuss them publicly said talks are active, with messages passed between intermediaries.

It wasnt immediately clear if the report represented a move by the hard-liners running the Iranian broadcaster to disrupt negotiations with the West amid talks in Vienna on Tehrans tattered nuclear deal.
Van Buren, AR (72956)

Today

Cloudy early with scattered thunderstorms developing this afternoon. High 88F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Variable clouds with scattered thunderstorms. Low 71F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%.
Andrew Wilford is a policy analyst with the National Taxpayers Union Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to tax policy research and education at all levels of government.
Up for debate:

Live legislation tracker

Check out the latest developments on bills pending before state lawmakers in four key topics.
Staff Reporter

Nyamekye Daniel has been a journalist for five years. She was the managing editor for the South Florida Media Network and a staff writer for The Miami Times. Daniel's work has also appeared in the Sun-Sentinel, Miami Herald and The New York Times.
Food Giveaway in Metropolis Today

By West Kentucky Star Staff

METROPOLIS - Grace Church in Metropolis will be giving away boxes of food on Saturday, May 8.The event will take place at 818 W. 10th Street in Metropolis from 10 am until 3 pm.Each box will contain a gallon of milk, protein, vegetables, and cheese.The food is available to everyone, not just Metropolis residents.
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ONEONTA - Mrs. Uhlig passed away on November 18, 2019. A memorial service will be held for Carol H. Uhlig at 12:30 p.m., Monday, June 14, in the Bookhout Funeral Home 357 Main Street, Oneonta, with Rev. Stephen D. Fournier, officiating. Friends may call at the Bookhout Funeral Home from 11 a
Forest City, NC (28043)

Today

Mostly cloudy this morning. Scattered thunderstorms developing this afternoon. High near 85F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 67F. Winds light and variable.
US Senator Mitch McConnell gestures as he speaks at the 2019 Fancy Farm Picnic. PHOTO:Bill Hughes, West Kentucky Star Staff

Fancy Farm Picnic Returns; Babbage to Emcee

By West Kentucky Star Staff

FANCY FARM - After taking last year off due to the coronavirus pandemic, the Fancy Farm Picnic is set to return this year. This year's picnic will be held Aug. 7 on the grounds of St. Jerome's Catholic Church in Graves County.

We are absolutely thrilled to welcome everyone back as the Fancy Farm tradition, dating all the way back to 1880 continues, said Steven Elder, the Chairman. Precautions due to COVID-19 caused a scale-backed version of the 2020 picnic with no speakers or games.

A Fancy Farm native, Elder emphasized that the well-known picnic has always been a fundraiser for the St. Jeromes Catholic Church and school.

The day emphasizes our faith, patriotism, hospitality and optimism, Elder added.

Elder also announced that Bob Babbage of Lexington will be the emcee for the political speaking. Babbage was Kentuckys Secretary of State and State Auditor, now a leading lobbyist here and in Washington D.C. with Babbage Cofounder.

We love Fancy Farm so I am sure humbled and honored, Babbage said. Theres nothing quite like this anywhere. Its a Kentucky political family reunion with a whole lot of would-be cousins showing up to check a box on their political bucket list.

Babbage is the grandson of Keen Johnson, Kentuckys governor during 1939-43, who was born in the Fancy Farm region in 1896. Governor Johnson spoke at Fancy Farm back in his era.

It was Governor A.B. Happy Chandler who popularized the political stump speaking during the 1930s. This ultimately led to Fancy Farm becoming a required pilgrimage for candidates along with political followers from everywhere.

U.S. Senate GOP Leader Mitch McConnell and local Congress Member James Comer have made remarks year after year as has Governor Andy Beshear and earlier his father, former Governor Steve Beshear.

Always held on the first Saturday in August, the Guinness Book of World Records dubbed it the Worlds Largest Picnic for the consumption of 15,000 pounds of mutton at the 1982 event. Al Gore of Tennessee spoke in 1992 while running for Vice President.

There is much to enjoy at Fancy Farm, but the political speaking is a big draw, a show carried live on KET. Our rules of debate assure a fair forum for top public leaders, Elder added, with a strong helping of humor and maybe a dash of spirited oratory.

You can count on our usual bingo out in the fresh, country air with the scent of barbecue, and rely on our friends, farmers and neighbors to prepare and serve the finest picnic one can find, Elder said.

We take great pride and pleasure in the chance to welcome several thousand guests to our special grounds and tradition, all to benefit St. Jeromes parish, Elder added.

Elder takes the helm from local businessman Mark Wilson, who headed the event for 15 years, still serving as a picnic advisor and volunteer.
It might be time for a winter getaway! Two-way quarantine-free travel between the Cook Islands and New Zealand will begin on May 17, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has confirmed at a press conference this afternoon.

Cook Islanders have been allowed into New Zealand quarantine-free since January, but the same didnt apply to New Zealanders until now. The new travel bubble means Kiwis will be allowed to visit both the Cook Islands and Australia quarantine free from May 17th.



Ardern said the bubble is possible because the Cook Islands has taken steps to prevent, detect and manage Covid-19, As in the case with Australia, the bubble comes with a flyer-beware caveat, Ardern adds.



This differs slightly from the trans-Tasman bubble as in the event of a COVID-19 outbreak occurring in the Cook Islands, Kiwis will be brought home. If an outbreak occurs as part of the trans-Tasman bubble, Kiwis and Australians must stay put if there is a lockdown.



"Two way quarantine-free travel is a significant step in both countries' COVID-19 recovery, and a direct result of both New Zealand and the Cook Islands' successful response to the pandemic," Ardern said on Monday.



It will mean families can reconnect, commercial arrangements can resume and Kiwis can take a much-welcomed winter break and support the Cook Islands tourism sector and recovery.



Air New Zealand CEO Greg Foran says its terrific to be opening the bubble between Rarotonga and New Zealand in both directions after four months of a one-way arrangement.



Were certain our Cook Island neighbours will become Kiwis with open arms for a much-needed boost for the local economy, and were looking forward to reconnecting friends and whanau who havent been able to take advantage of the one-way travel arrangement thats been in place since January.


19 States Ask Supreme Court to Rein In EPA Powers Over Coal Plants

West Virginia and 18 other states are asking the Supreme Court to review the scope of the Environmental Protection Agencys regulatory authority over greenhouse gases after an appeals court struck down a Trump-era rule months ago on carbon dioxide emissions from coal-fired power plants.

The case, if granted, would be the biggest climate question to reach the Supreme Court in more than a decade, according to Bloomberg Law. In Massachusetts v. EPA (2007), the Supreme Court gave the agency the power to regulate greenhouse gases.

The Jan. 19 decision by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit was a victory for left-wing environmentalists that helped clear the way for the then-incoming Biden administration to impose new restrictions on the energy sector.

The Clean Air Act lacks the straitjacket that former President Donald Trumps EPA claimed narrowed the breadth of the agencys authority when creating the 2019 regulation, the appeals court found. The 2019 rule would have forced states to make coal-fired units more efficient over time, but lacked binding CO 2 reduction goals.

The Appeals Court ruling violates the U.S. Constitutions separation of powers doctrine and will wreak havoc on the economy and the rule of law if the Supreme Court fails to act, West Virginia Attorney General Patrick Morrisey said in a statement on April 29.

This wildly expansive power to regulate factories, hospitals, and even homes has tremendous costs and consequences for all Americans, in particular West Virginias coal miners, pipeliners, natural gas producers and utility workers as well as the countless others who rely upon their success, said Morrisey, a Republican.

If EPA lacks such expansive authority, as we argue, the Supreme Court should make that clear now. Any further delay will impose costs the energy sector can never recoup and force states to sink even more years and resources into an enterprise that isat bestlegally uncertain.

The appeals court ruling seeks to transform EPA from serving as an environmental regulator into a central energy planning authorityyet it was never designed to have so much power over states and the livelihood of American families.

The petitioners are West Virginia, Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Georgia, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, and Wyoming. The respondents are the EPA and its administrator, Michael Regan.

The Supreme Court petition filed by the state-based coalition claims the lower court inappropriately interpreted Section 111 of the Clean Air Act as authorizing EPA to sidestep Congress to exercise broad regulatory power that would radically transform the nations energy grid and force states to fundamentally shift their energy portfolios away from coal-fired generation, according to a summary provided by Morriseys office.

The petition also asserts that the appeals court ignored a February 2016 stay on the rule instituted by the Supreme Court, which the coalition says should have hinted that the high court viewed existing law as limiting EPAs authoritynot expanding it.

The legal issue, according to the petition, is whether in approving 42 U.S.C.  7411(d), an ancillary provision of the Clean Air Act, did Congress constitutionally authorize the Environmental Protection Agency to issue significant rulesincluding those capable of reshaping the nations electricity grids and unilaterally decarbonizing virtually any sector of the economywithout any limits on what the agency can require so long as it considers cost, nonair impacts, and energy requirements?

The appeals court is wrong, the petition states. Its ruling allows EPA to dictate huge shifts in most sectors of the economy even though nothing in the statute approaches the clear language Congress must use to assign such vast policymaking authorityassuming, of course, it can delegate enormous powers like these in the first place.

EPA now can set standards on a regional or even national level, forcing dramatic changes in how and where electricity is produced, as well as transforming any other sector of the economy where stationary sources emit greenhouse gases. Power to regulate factories, hospitals, hotels, and even homes would have tremendous costs and consequences for all Americans; EPAs steps on remand and every regulation under the statute to follow will be shaped by this new and wildly expansive authority.

An environmentalist group said theres no reason for the high court to get involved.

There is no basis for Supreme Court review. There are no standards in effect right now, and the Biden administration has been clear that any future standards will start from a clean slate, Vickie Patton, general counsel for the Environmental Defense Fund, told reporters.

These state Attorneys General seem to be wasting taxpayer money just to attack our nations clean air laws, she said.

The Epoch Times reached out to EPA Press Secretary Nick Conger for his reaction to the legal filing.

We have no comment as this is pending litigation, he replied by email.
2 Indiana High School Students Killed on Their Way to Prom

Two Indiana high school students were killed in a car crash on their way to their prom over the past weekend, according to officials and family members.

Kalen Hart, 18, and her boyfriend Lendon Byram died after an SUV crashed into their vehicle on Saturday night, local media reported. Deputies were dispatched to a two-vehicle wreck at 281st Street and Lacy Road at around 5:15 p.m. on Saturday, reported the Indianapolis Star.

Their deaths were announced in a Facebook post by Derek Arrowood, the superintendent of the Hamilton Heights School Corporation, and he also said that all scheduled prom activities were canceled.

Hamilton County Sheriffs Deputy Ryan McClain told the newspaper that two other high school students who were in the vehicles back seat were injured. They were taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Its heartbreaking. Its the worst nightmare, Arrowood told WTHR. Its a horrible situation. So what we do in horrible situations is we try to love each other and we try to support each other and we try to make sure everyones needs are met to the best of our abilities and thats absolutely what we are working on now.

Grief is personal and everyone experiences and processes loss and trauma differently, the school also said in a statement. This is an unimaginable loss for these families and our school community.

Harts mother, Jody Bartrom Conaway, posted a fundraiser on Facebook that is seeking $15,000 to cover her funeral.
A county election worker scans mail-in ballots at a tabulating area at the Clark County Election Department in Las Vegas, Nev., on Nov. 5, 2020. (John Locher/AP Photo)

2 Pennsylvania Women Face Election Fraud Charges: Officials

A Pennsylvania district attorney said that two women are slated to face voter fraud charges in separate incidents, with both trying to cast ballots on behalf of their deceased mothers during the November 2020 election.

Authorities in Bucks County said the two women filled out mail-in ballots with the names of their dead mothers.

District Attorney Matthew Weintraub told news outlets that the incidents are isolated and said there was no evidence of widespread or systematic election fraud here in Bucks County.

In each of these cases, the system caught the fraud first, as it was designed to do, he said in a statement last week.

Danielle Elaine Dooner, 56, of Buckingham, and Melissa Ann Fisher, 51, of Quakertown, will be charged in relation to the alleged mail-in ballot violations. They each face violations of provisions relating to absentee and mail-in ballots, a misdemeanor of the third degree, officials said.

Dooner completed an application in late September or early October 2020 for her mother, who died on Sept. 29, 2020, according to Weintraub. Fisher signed the declaration on the ballot claiming to be her mother last year, his office said, adding that her mother died on Sept. 21, 2020.

The district attorneys office said that it doesnt know the party registrations of either woman and did not know for which candidate they voted for. Neither of the allegedly fraudulent ballots were opened and counted, Weintraub added.

The Philadelphia Inquirer reported that Fisher was registered as a Democrat, and Dooner was registered as a Republican.

It was not anything intentional, Fisher told the paper.

In some of these investigations, the detectives obtained DNA samples from ballots and voters for analysis, took handwriting samples from voters, prepared and served search warrants for IP addresses for electronic mail-in-ballot application submissions, reviewed video surveillance of county government facilities, contacted and spoke to postal carriers and contacted and spoke to FBI agents assigned to voter irregularities, his office said in a statement.

Last week, a Delaware County man was sentenced to five years probation after admitting to casting an illegal ballot during the election.

Bruce Bartman, 70, apologized to Common Pleas Court Judge Richard Cappelli during a hearing on April 30, saying he made a stupid mistake when he illegally cast a mail-in ballot for his deceased mother.

Following the Nov. 3, 2020, election, a number of states are considering changing rules around absentee and mail-in voting. This week, in Florida, the state Legislature passed a bill that provides more regulations for ballot drop boxes as well as more identification requirements for voters who request a mail-in ballot.
Police officers investigate the scene of a shooting in Chicago, Ill., in a file photo (Kamil Krzaczynski/AFP via Getty Images)

4 Shot, More Than 30 Injured in Chicago Weekend Shootings: Police

At least four people were killed and more than 30 others were injured in shootings across Chicago this weekend, April 30 through May 2, police said.

The latest murder occurred when two men were shot on Sunday afternoon in Humboldt Park on the West Side. Police told the Sun-Times that they were outside at 2 p.m. when someone approached them and fired shots, killing a 34-year-old man and injuring the other, 40.

On Saturday, a 27-year-old man was shot multiple times on South Morgan Street in Englewood just before midnight Another man, 30, was injured in that shooting, officials told ABC7.

About 45 minutes before that, a 21-year-old male was shot and killed while riding in a vehicle in Burnside on the South Side of Chicago, officials said. He was sitting in his vehicle at 11:15 p.m. ET on Saturday when someone fired shots in his direction, said police.

About 30 minutes before that in West Pullman on the Far South Side, another man was shot during a fight. When two men began physically fighting, the other male shot the 37-year-old victim once in the head and fled the scene, officials said.

Last weekend, three people were killed and 21 others were injured in Chicago shootings, officials said.

According to data compiled from news reports, 204 have been murdered so far in 2021 in Chicago while more than 1,000 people have been shot.

Last month, Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot, a Democrat, claimed that lax federal gun laws are the reason for the surge in violent crime.

Folks, we are living in madness if we dont step up and deal with this problem. So yes, Im very satisfied with what our police superintendent and the police department are doing in an impossible environment where we got to have help, Lightfoot said.
Houston police respond to a house with more than 90 people packed inside in what appears to be an alleged human smuggling case in Houston, Texas, on April 30, 2021. (Houston Police Department)

5 Illegal Immigrants Facing Federal Charges After 97 People Found Packed in Houston Residence

After the shocking discovery of nearly 100 illegal aliens a residence in Houston, the Department of Justice (DOJ) filed charges against five people residing in the United States illegally following their arrest.

The criminal complaint filed on May 1 accuses two Mexican nationals, two Honduran nationals, and one person from El Salvador, all between 21 and 31 years old, of harboring, concealing, and shielding illegal aliens with the intention to gain commercial advantage or financial gain.

Authorities were allegedly made aware of a kidnapping situation in which a woman had paid thousands of dollars for her brother to be smuggled into the United States and claimed that she was asked for more money after the smugglers threatened to put an end to his life, the charges say, according to the DOJ.

An overnight investigation led to a discovery of 97 illegal immigrants, crammed in two rooms of a two-story house which had the deadbolts of the doors facing outside, impeding escape.

All the males that were found in the house, which were the vast majority, were only wearing their undergarments. One of them was told that if the money wasnt transferred he would end up in 4 pieces of wood, the charges allege.

If the operators are found guilty, each face up to 10 years of federal imprisonment and a potential maximum of $250,000 in fines.

No serious injuries were reported, according to authorities, but they mentioned that there may be some positive COVID cases inside the house, with some of the aliens showing a loss of the sense of smell and taste, as well as fever, which are symptoms of the CCP (Chinese Communist Party virus) virus which causes the COVID-19 disease.

The youngest was in his or her early 20s. Five of them were women and the rest were all men who hadnt eaten in a while and were fed by officials.
President Joe Biden addresses a joint session of congress as House Speaker Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) (L) looks on in the House chamber of the Capitol in Washington on April 28, 2021. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

A Tale of Two Speeches

Commentary

Wednesday night was a tale of two speeches. We had President Biden droning to a nearly empty House Chamber. Then, we had Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) give the best follow-up to a presidential address to a joint session of Congress that I have ever seen.

The difference between the two speeches was made vivid by Frank Luntzs experience with a class of 15 University of Southern California students. In describing his discussion with the students on an Inner Circle webinar with me the next day, the students clearly favored Bidens liberalism over Scotts conservatism. Yet, when the speeches finished, the students were totally and deeply disappointed by the Presidents speech. They were instead impressed by Scotts sincerity, the power of his life story, and even his references to religion. While the students werent necessarily religious themselves, they thought a more spiritual approach to our current political mess would be helpful.

Watching the President, Vice President, and Speaker of the House all wearing masks even though they have been vaccinated was just painful. Far from following science, Biden, Harris, and Pelosi were clearly virtue signaling. To add to this, the absurdity of having 200 members present for a speech that usually has 1,600 people in attendance made for a very sad and depressing picture.

Russias Putin and Chinas Xi must have viewed the image of the masked, sparse crowd as proof that America has lost its courage and its can-do spirit. The delivery of the Presidents speech would have further confirmed their sense that the Biden administration is incompetent, timid, and tired.

Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas) falling asleep just validated the boredom most of us felt while watching at home. Biden is not a dynamic speaker under any circumstance. It is virtually impossible to get a strong crowd response when people are sitting so far apart with more empty seats than ones that are filled. This made the challenge to President Biden to arouse and generate enthusiasm beyond his ability.

The failure of the Biden presidency to engage the American people showed up vividly when Nielsen reported that only an estimated 26.9 million people had watched Wednesdays speech. By comparison, Nielsen reported that 47.7 million people tuned in for President Trumps first address to the Congress.

When almost twice as many people tuned in to watch President Trump, it says something about the lack of enthusiasm for the Biden presidency.

The lack of interest in the Biden speech should be a real warning to the Democrats. When you are promising trillions (not billions, but trillions) of dollars in free giveaways and people dont care enough to tune in, you have a big problem.

The depth and seriousness of the reaction to big spending, big government liberalism was captured in the strong response of Senator Tim Scotts rebuttal immediately after the Biden speech.

Scott offered a sharp rejection of wokeism, a repudiation of systemic racism, a devastating put down of the anti-American left, and a solid reaffirmation of historic American values. Where Biden was anti-police, Scott reaffirmed the importance of honest, effective police.

Where Biden talked about bipartisanship and stoked the flames of deep partisanship, Scott recalled his efforts last year to forge a genuine bipartisan consensus for police reform. Scott recounted the deliberate sabotage of that effort by Democratic leaders who wanted to deny President Trump a victory just before the election.

Scott calmly and effectively confronted the dishonesty with which Biden and the Democrats lied about the Georgia election reforms. As a Black South Carolinian, he reported that he had never been stopped from voting. He totally repudiated the lefts charge that we are living through a second Jim Crow era.

Possibly Scotts most profound and convincing witness for an America open to all was his assertion that his grandfather lived to see his family go from picking cotton to serving in Congress. His personal life story is a repudiation of the lefts anti-American lies.

So, we had a stark contrast between two speeches.

The big speech was a tired, droning, boring recitation that put Ted Cruz and most of America to sleep. It generated no new energy for passing the Biden multi-trillion dollar giant government plans (big is no longer a big enough word to describe the bureaucratic monstrosity Biden is proposing).

The follow-up speech led me to think of A Star is Born. You are going to hear a lot more from Tim Scott and he is consistently going to be a pro-American witness to the promise of an even better American future.

Quite a contrast.

From Gingrich360.com.

Newt Gingrich, a Republican, served as House speaker from 1995 to 1999 and ran as a presidential candidate in 2012.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott announces the reopening of more Texas businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic at a press conference at the Texas State Capitol in Austin, Texas, on May 18, 2020. (Lynda M. Gonzalez-Pool/Getty Images)

Abbott Calls on Democratic Party Official to Resign Following Disgusting Racial Slur Against Sen. Scott

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott on Sunday called on a state Democratic Party official to resign after he referred to Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) as an oreo in a now-deleted social media post.

Responding to Scotts GOP rebuttal to President Joe Bidens first address to a joint session of Congress on April 28, Gary OConnor, chair of the Lamar County Democratic Party, criticized Scott as little more than an oreo with no real principles.

I had hoped that Scott might show some common sense but it seems clear he is little more than an oreo with no real principles, OConnor wrote in a post.

He has since deleted the post from his Facebook page.

This is disgusting, hateful, and completely unacceptable, the Republican governor said on Twitter. OConnor must apologize to @SenatorTimScott & step down immediately.

Abbott also suggested that the state Democratic Party should censure OConnor for his remarks about Scott, the first black politician from the South to serve in the U.S. Senate.

Texas Republican Rep. Pat Fallon separately called on OConnor to resign for posting the defamatory and racist remark against the South Carolina senator on social media, his office said in a release.

Gary OConnors comment against Senator Tim Scott is abhorrent, insulting, and unforgivable, Fallon said in a statement. Both he and the entire Lamar County Democratic Party should be ashamed of this racist behavior. OConnor must apologize and step down immediately.

He also called on the state Democratic Party to censure OConnor for his racial slur against Scott.

Additionally, I call on both the Democratic Party of Texas and the NAACP to condemn these words, Fallon added. This kind of behavior is not tolerable in Texas, the United States, or any political party.

OConnor didnt immediately respond to a request for comment by The Epoch Times.

During his GOP rebuttal on Wednesday, Scott said President Joe Biden was further dividing the nation, and pushed back against the presidents description of the United States as a systemically racist country.

America is not a racist country. Its backward to fight discrimination with different types of discrimination. And its wrong to try to use our painful past to dishonestly shut down debates in the present, Scott said.

100 years ago, kids in classrooms were taught the color of their skin was their most important characteristic and if they looked a certain way, they were inferior, Scott elaborated. Today, kids are being taught that the color of their skin defines them again and if they look a certain way, theyre an oppressor.

He added, From colleges to corporations to our culture, people are making money and gaining power by pretending we havent made any progress at all by doubling down on the divisions weve worked so hard to heal.

Readdressing the issue in a subsequent interview with CBS News Face the Nation, Scott, who says hes experienced racial profiling himself in the United States, clarified that rather than defining the United States as a racist country, he believes that there a lingering effect after a couple of centuries of racism and discrimination in this nation.

The question we should be debating and fighting over is how do we resolve those issues going forward, he said.
Abolish the FBI

Commentary

For a long time, the FBI has stood as the admirable symbol of a police agency of government, implacably going after the bad guys and neutrally enforcing the laws. This is the FBI of the movie The Untouchables, in which special agent Eliot Ness leads his devoted crew of armed agents in a heroic battle against the forces of organized crime.

Well, forget about the Untouchables. Todays FBI has quite obviously been corrupted from the top. This is a process that seems to have begun under President Barack Obama, endured during the President Donald Trump years, and has now reached its unfortunate nadir under President Joe Biden. Its time for conservatives and Republicans to start thinking about getting rid of the FBI.

I want to highlight two sets of contrasting episodes that give us a window into how biased and partisan this once-respected agency has now become. Contrast the treatment the FBI has given to Jan. 6 activists with that it has afforded to Antifa and Black Lives Matter protesters.

The FBI has unrelentingly hunted down Jan. 6 protesters, in many cases confronting Trump supporters who were merely in Washington at the time, or at the mall rally but not involved in entering the Capitol.

Those who have been arrested have been treated like domestic terrorists, captured in raids involving drawn weapons, even though the charges against most of them amount to little more than trespassing or entering a government facility without proper permission.

Nonviolent offenders have been given the same brutal treatment as violent ones. And to this day, the FBI promulgates imagesa grandma here, a teenager thereasking the public to help them track down still-at-large individuals who had something, anything, to do with the events of Jan. 6.

Contrast this concentrated effort with the lackadaisical, even disinterested, approach of the FBI to the Antifa and Black Lives Matter activists. Over a period of many months, those activists have proven far more violent. They have killed a number of people, in contrast to the Trump activists who killed nobody. (The only person killed on Jan. 6 was Ashli Babbitt, a Trump supporter shot in the neck by a Capitol police officer.)

They have looted businesses, burned churches, assaulted police officers, attacked and harassed ordinary citizens eating in restaurants or going about their normal livesand all with impunity. No FBI raids, no systematic arrests, no dissemination of Wanted images on social media.

Now, I turn to my second contrast: the recent FBI raid on Rudy Giulianis home and office, while there has been no raid on the home or office of New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo.

Start with Giuliani: The ostensible justification for the raid was to look for evidence Giuliani violated the Foreign Agents Registration Act.

Giuliani pointed out in a statement released by his lawyer, however, that he had offered to sit down with the FBI and the Biden Department of Justice (DOJ) and show them to their satisfaction that there had been no violation of law.

Moreover, Giuliani had for several months been offering the FBI clear evidence, corroborated by texts and emails, that Hunter Biden not only allegedly failed to register as a foreign agent, but also that he was allegedly involved in child pornography, money laundering, and an elaborate Biden family scheme to sell their political access in exchange for millions of dollars in personal gain.

Both the FBI and the DOJ showed no interest in any of that. Consequently, Giuliani seems warranted in concluding that the agencys conduct is a clear example of a corrupt double standard: One for high-level Democrats whose blatant crimes are ignored, such as Hillary Clinton, Hunter Biden, and Joe Biden and quite another for Republicans who are prominent supporters and defender of President Trump.

Giuliani further revealed that the FBI and DOJ had, in late 2019, obtained access to his email database without notifying him. This means that while Giuliani was advising his client Donald Trump during the impeachment processa relationship fully protected by attorneyclient privilegethe FBI violated the law while supposedly investigating Giuliani and Trumps possible violations of law.

Here, again, the FBIs extreme diligence in going after Giuliani can be contrasted with the FBIs failure to act in the case of Cuomo. Cuomo is currently involved in two separate scandals, one involving multiple women who have accused him of sexual harassment, and another involving his direct involvement in a cover-up scheme to hide the magnitude of nursing home deaths caused by his own policies.

According to The New York Times, the Cuomo administration was far more culpable than previously known in deliberately undercounting nursing home deaths over a period of five months. Lets recall that these deaths need not have occurred. At the direction of the Trump administration, the U.S. Navy dispatched the hospital ship Comfort to New York to accept non-coronavirus patients and thus lessen the burden on New York hospitals.

Cuomo, however, turned the ship away to spite the Trump administration and instead ordered New York nursing homes to accept the overflow of COVID-19 patients, helping the virus to spread among vulnerable nursing home populations and thus causing thousands of unnecessary deaths.

Then, when the Trump administration inquired about the nursing home data in New York, Cuomo instructed his state health officials, including health Commissioner Howard Zucker, not to release the true death toll to the federal government, state officials, or the general public. Cuomo also suppressed a research paper that revealed the data and blocked two letters by Zuckers department from being sent to state legislators.

While Giulianis offense remains unclear, Cuomo is guilty of obvious abuses of poweractions that have not only put people in their graves but also amounted, in a statistical sense, to hiding the bodies. Again, the FBI is nowhere to be found, and the reason for its absence appears to be that Cuomo is a Democratic governor who seemingly enjoys immunity as far as todays FBI and Bidens DOJ are concerned.

Enough is enough! When justice no longer involves the neutral or equal application of the laws, it ceases to be justice. I realize, of course, that there will be no FBI reform under Biden. Therefore, I strongly urge the Republican Party to make the abolition of the FBIshutting down the agency and then reconstructing it from the ground upkey provisions of its campaigns both in 2022 and 2024.

Dinesh DSouza is an author, filmmaker, and daily host of the Dinesh DSouza podcast.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Slain Army Spc. Vanessa Guillen's mother Gloria Guillen (R) joined by Vanessa's sister Lupe Guillen (C) and family attorney Natalie Khawam, speaks as she cries during a news conference on the National Mall in front of Capitol Hill in Washington, on July 30, 2020. (Carolyn Kaster/AP Photo)

Army Disciplines 21 at Fort Hood in Probe of Soldier Vanessa Guillens Death

WASHINGTONThe Army said Friday that it has taken disciplinary action against 21 officers and non-commissioned officers at Fort Hood, Texas, in connection with death last year of Spc. Vanessa Guillen, who was missing for about two months before her remains were found.

The punishments, which include firing eight senior commanders, are the latest Army moves in response to Guillens disappearance and death, which brought to light widespread leadership failures at a base that had high rates of sexual assault, harassment, drug use and other problems.

Also, in a new revelation, an Army report blamed the military for allowing Guillens killer to escape from custody and ultimately kill himself. It found that poor communication between soldiers keeping watch on Spc. Aaron Robinson failed to clearly note that he was a soldier of heightened interest, contributing to his ability to flee from a conference room. He committed suicide while being pursued.

While the discipline announced Friday represents a sweeping condemnation of soldiers in Guillens chain of command, no criminal charges have been brought against any of the soldiers. Instead, the soldiers were relieved of command or given formal letters of reprimand that will go into their permanent files, or both. In many cases such discipline is career-ending.

The investigation, led by Gen. John Murray, head of Army Futures Command, concluded that Guillen was sexually harassed by another soldiera charge that commanders at the base denied for months. Maj. Gen. Gene LeBoeuf, Forces Command chief of staff, told reporters Friday that the soldier who harassed her is among those disciplined.

Missing Fort Hood soldier Vanessa Guillen. (Courtesy of Fort Hood Military Police)

He declined to identify that person, but said it was not Robinson, the soldier investigators say killed her. Robinson killed himself on July 1 as police were trying to take him into custody. The family has identified the soldier who harassed her as Sgt. 1st Class Jovanny Rivera.

The report said the investigating officer found no credible evidence to conclude that Robinson sexually harassed Guillen or that they had any relationship outside of their work setting. And it did not find a motive in the killing. Instead, it said Robinson sexually harassed another soldier.

Guillens family has said that he harassed Guillen. If you cant say why he murdered her, you cant say he didnt sexually harass her, said Guillen family attorney Natalie Khawam in an interview with The Associated Press Friday.

An independent review panel created to dig into the problems at the base concluded last December that military leaders at the base were not adequately dealing with high rates of sexual assault, harassment, drug use and other problems. It also found that the Armys Criminal Investigation Command, or CID, was understaffed, overwhelmed and filled with inexperienced investigators.

The panels chairman told members of Congress in a hearing earlier this year that the base leadership was focused on military readiness, and completely and utterly neglected the sexual assault prevention program. As a result, he said, lower-level unit commanders didnt encourage service members to report assaults, and in many cases were shaming victims or were actually the perpetrators themselves.

Christopher Swecker (R) chairman of the Fort Hood Independent Review Committee speaks accompanied by Carrie Ricci, a member of the Fort Hood Independent Review Committee, during a House Committee on Armed Services Subcommittee on Military Personnel, hearing about Military Criminal Investigative Organization Reform Recommendations from the Fort Hood Independent Review Committee, on Capitol Hill in Washington, on March 16, 2021. (Alex Brandon/AP Photo)

In response to the latest investigation, the Guillen family and Khawam also issued a statement saying there are many inconsistencies in the report.

In an interview with the AP Friday, Guillens sisters Lupe and Mayra expressed frustration.

The family also issued a statement saying: Vanessas case was severely mishandled. We are upset that the names of the soldiers that sexually harassed Vanessa are not included. Its heartbreaking and frustrating for all of us.

The senior leaders disciplined include Maj. Gen. Scott Efflandt, former Deputy Commanding General of III Corps, and Col. Ralph Overland and Command Sgt. Maj. Bradley Knapp, the former commander and command sergeant major of 3rd Cavalry Regiment. Efflandt was serving as acting base commander during the time of Guillens death.

The base commander, Army Lt. Gen. Pat White, escaped any discipline. Gen. James McConville, the Army chief of staff, said in December that White was not punished because he was deployed to Iraq as the commander there for much of the year, and wasnt at the base.

Officials have said that members of the CID were also disciplined, although their names have not been released.

As many as 28 Fort Hood soldiers died in 2020, including in multiple homicides, suicides and other accidents. Guillens death triggered a social media movement of former and current military service people speaking out about sexual assault and harassment on the base.

Fort Hood soldier Vanessa Guillen in a file photo. (Courtesy of Fort Hood Military Police)

Murrays investigation was submitted to Gen. Michael Garrett, head of Army Forces Command, who made a number of the reprimand decisions, and recommended several others to White.

The report concluded that Guillens leaders failed to take appropriate action when she was sexually harassed by a supervisor, who created an intimidating, hostile environment. It said

It also concluded that 3rd Cavalry Regiment commanders didnt sufficiently emphasize the prevention and response to sexual assault or harassment, and that they failed to hold her supervisor accountable for his actions.

They knew of the aggressive and counterproductive leadership but took no action, the report said, adding that senior leaders were aware of problems with the supervisor but continued to move him from one squadron to another.

The report added that base commanders failed to publicly address Guillens disappearance or correct inaccurate information that came out in the aftermath.

This contributed to an inability to inform and educate the public in a timely manner, and maintain transparency with the Guillen family, the report said, adding that it caused the family, the community and the nation to lose trust with Fort Hood.

Dawn Gomez holds her 3-year-old granddaughter who waves at Vanessa Guillens mural painted by Alejandro Donkeeboy Roman Jr. on the side of Taqueria Del Sol in Houston, Texas, on July 2, 2020. (Steve Gonzales/Houston Chronicle via AP)

In a statement late Friday, a Fort Hood spokesperson said the Guillen case was a catalyst for significant cultural and policy changes across the Army and Fort Hood; we never want any family to experience a tragedy like this again. The statement said Fort Hood has invested more than 6 million work-hours focused on team-building activities to build trust and morale.

Lupe and Mayra Guillen told the AP that they were disappointed to see that some of the people responsible would only receive reprimands and would have the chance to defend themselves against the actions.

My sister cant speak for herself, why should they? Lupe Guillen said.

By Lolita C. Baldor
Funds Available to Restaurants for Pandemic Costs

By West Kentucky Star Staff

WESTERN KENTUCKY - A local CPA is urging restaurant owners to take advantage of a new grant that could help offset pandemic-related expenses.The Restaurant Revitalization Fund, created after President Joe Biden signed the American Rescue Plan Act, provides billions of dollars in grants to restaurants impacted by the pandemic.On the Greg Dunker Show Monday, Paducah Certified Public Accountant Dean Owen said the Small Business Administration has set up a website where restaurant owners can apply for the funding."The SBA is opening a portal to take applications for a grant for restaurant owners. No one knows this. It's like the greatest secret in America. But there's $5 billion that's been set aside for restaurant owners," he said. "All of us have been impacted, but the restaurant owners, in particular, have really taken it hard."According to the SBA website, the funds can be used for numerous expenses, including payroll costs, debt, utilities, construction of outdoor seating, and more.Owen said many restaurant owners aren't aware of the grant and encouraged everyone to spread the word."I talked to five restaurant owners yesterday, and none had a clue about any of this. All of us that are not restaurant owners but like eating at those restaurants, we need to be going and telling those restaurant owners to get on this. We need to push this message out." he said.You can learn how to apply for the grant by clicking here. On the Net:
A supplied photograph of an Australian Army M1A1 Abrams tank firing at targets during Exercise Chong Ju at Puckapunyal training area, Victoria, Australia on May 17, 2018. (AAP Image/Supplied by Australian Department of Defence)

Australia to Spend $2 Billion on Abrams Tanks, Helicopters From US

The U.S. State Department will soon sign-off a US$2 billion arms deal to the Australian government for 160 new Abrams tanks and four Chinook helicopters.

The sale comes amid Prime Minister Scott Morrisons pledge last year to increase defence spending in response to rising geopolitical tension in the Indo-Pacific region.

Australia will purchase 160 M1A1 tank hulls and convert them into different vehicles, including 75 M1A2 Main Battle Tank; 29 M1150 Assault Breacher Vehicles; 18 M1074 Joint Assault Bridges; and 6 M88A2 Hercules Combat Recovery Vehicles.

The cost of the tanks will be US$1.685 billion.

The Australian Army currently fields 59 Abrams Main Battle Tanks but have not deployed them since their original purchase in 2007.

Four CH-47F Chinook helicopters will also bolster the existing fleet of ten at the cost of $259 million.

A CH-47 Chinook from the 5th Aviation Regiment is seen deploying from Townsville, Australia, on January 05, 2020 (Ian Hitchcock/Getty Images)

The U.S. State Dept said the proposed sale would support the foreign policy and the national security objectives of the United States.

Australia is one of our most important allies in the Western Pacific. The strategic location of this political and economic power contributes significantly to ensuring peace and economic stability in the region, the dept. said in a statement.

It is vital to the U.S. national interest to assist our ally in developing and maintaining a strong and ready self-defence capability.

The proposed sale improves Australias capability to meet current and future threats by enhancing the lethality, survivability, and interoperability of the Australian Army.

In April, the State Dept. approved the sale of 12 MQ-9B drone aircraft to the Royal Australian Air Force for $1.651 billion.

The arms spending comes following the release of the new Strategic Update and Force Structure Plan in July 2020 that saw the Morrison government pledge $270 billion in funding for the Australian defence forces.

An ongoing aim of the government has been to push defence spending past 2 percent of GDP, with Morrison declaring in August that under the new framework, 2 percent was no longer a target but a floor for defence funding.

The new funding model sees $55 billion earmarked for Australian land forces, $75 billion for the navy, and $65 billion for the air force.

It also comes amid growing concerns over Beijings increased posturing in the South China Sea and Taiwan.

The prime minister stated last year during the launch of the Strategic Update that Australia faced a world that is poorer, that is more dangerous, and that is more disorderly.

We have not seen the conflation of global, economic, and strategic uncertainty now being experienced here in Australia, in our region, since the existential threat we faced when the global and regional order collapsed in the 1930s and 1940s.
New money at the Royal Australian Mint in Canberra, Australia on April 22, 2005 (Mark Nolan/Getty Images)

Australian Governments Superannuation Reform Bill Faces Challenges Despite Revision

The Australian governments proposed changes to the superannuation fund performance test have faced criticism after the opposition said the Bill should not be supported following the inclusion of some controversial proposed reforms.

Treasurer Josh Frydenberg and Superannuation Minister Jane Hume released the consultation draft regulations for the new Your Future, Your Super (YFYS) reform package on April 28 as a response to the concerns voiced by the superannuation industry to 2 major changes to the fund performance test.

In the Senate Standing Committees on Economics report into the YSYF reform released on April 29, Labor noted that the proposed Bill would damage retirement outcomes of Australians and subject our superannuation system to risk.

This bill as written will not deliver better outcomes for Australian superannuation members, the Labor report said.

The evidence provided to this inquiry makes it clear that the governments proposed approach to superannuation would damage retirement outcomes for ordinary Australians, and subject our superannuation system to considerable risk.

The Dissenting report by Labor noted seven major flaws with the Billincluding the power to the Treasurer to override the superannuation trustees investment or payment decisions; stapling to underperforming funds, flawed performance testing and Best Financial Interest Dutys administrative burden.

The Bill, which is part of the Governments Your Future, Your Super (YFYS) packageannounced in the 2020-21 Budget is a comprehensive superannuation system reform aiming to deliver better outcomes for members, with an estimated $17.9 billion reduction of costs for workers over ten years.

Under the proposal, administration fees will be included to ensure that the test focuses on the final member outcome and to align with information presented to consumers on the online YourSuper comparison.

The changes also see the addition of unlisted infrastructure and property as specific assets covered by the performance test, which means these two assets will be benchmarked against more appropriate indices.

The move aims to improve the accuracy of the performance test and ensure that Australian superannuation funds can invest with confidence.

An elderly couple walk around Manly promenade on June 2, 2016 in Australia. (Brendon Thorne/Getty Images)

Labor was not alone in their opposition to the Bill, with two of the industrys peak bodies also stating that the draft requires further amendments to achieve its goal.

The Australian Institute of Superannuation Trustees (AIST) CEO Eva Scheerlinck is disappointed with the fact that the performance test does not extend to every superannuation product, arguing that the Bill needs to be rejected due to serious flaws.

The proposed reforms will exclude up to one-third of superannuation savings in regulated super products, many of them the worst-performing, she told the Epoch Times in an email on April 30.

This puts millions of Australians at risk of being stuck in under-performing funds and experiencing a poor retirement outcome.

Underperformance across the entire superannuation sector must be addressed before anyone is stapled to a fund, she added.

Industry Super Australia (ISA) echoed the same concern, urging the government to expand the testing regime to all APRA-regulated product and ensure the stapling only occur to those having passed the performance test.

Now that seemingly all fees are included in the test, it is time that all funds are too  the worst-performing products in the system should not be carved out, ISA CEO Bernie Dean said in a statement (pdf) on April 29.

However, the Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia (ASFA) CEO Martin Fahy was glad that government recognises the important role unlisted assets play in superannuation returns.

Australian superannuation funds strategic asset allocation, including the significant allocation to unlisted investments, has been an important element in their outperformance compared to international peers, he said in a statement on April 29.

Fahy also supports the inclusion of administration fee, saying this helps align the benchmark to the reality of the returns members see in their superannuation.

Concerns Over Governments Overriding Power

Of most concern to the industry was the controversial regulatory kill switch, that would allow the Treasurer to ban certain super fund investment or expenditure where they are considered to be unsuitable by trustees in any circumstance.

ISA criticizes the measure as an ideological overreach the government has provided no justification for.

This power introduces sovereign risk into Australias $3 trillion super systems and is ripe for abuse, the peak body said. Investing in Australia with confidence will be more difficult if deals could be torn up for politically motivated reasons.

Scheerlinck also said the power granted to the government was unnecessary and unprecedented and would create uncertainty for super funds.

As long as there is uncertainty around this measure, there will be uncertainty as to how super funds invest for the long term, putting at risk investment by funds and dampening returns for members, Scheerlinck warned.

Superannuation Consumer Australia (SCA), the consumer advocate of the superannuation industry, also weighed in, suggesting the power of scrutiny be granted to a regulator following a clear process rather than the Minister.

In the interests of transparency and probity, we recommend that APRA and ASIC jointly exercise this discretionary power under a similar regime to other financial products they regulate, SCAs Director Xavier OHalloran said in a statement.
Australian Treasurer Proposes New Laws That Could Hinder Woke Corporate Policy

The federal government is considering new laws that could stymie the advent of woke corporate policy among Australias biggest businesses.

On Friday, Treasurer Josh Frydenberg announced consultations around possible new lawsmodelled on U.S. and UK legislationthat will force shareholder proxy firms to be more transparent with their decision-making process.

Proxy firms work for major shareholders (superannuation funds and institutions) who own stakes in publicly listed companies.

The proxy firm carries out research and provide recommendations to shareholders on how to vote on matters at upcoming meetings, including environmental, social, and governance issues.

Matters such as climate change and workplace gender equality have taken centre stage in recent years.

Australian Treasurer Josh Frydenberg speaks to the media during a visit to Narrabundah Cottage Childcare Centre in Canberra, Australia on May 2, 2021. (AAP Image/Lukas Coch)

Australias four major proxy advisors are CGI Glass Lewis, ISS Australia, Ownership Matters, and the Australian Council of Superannuation Investors (ACSI).

In April, CGI Glass Lewis backed a shareholder in pushing for energy firms, Woodside Petroleum and Santos, to report how they will allocate funding so the company aligns with climate change goals in the Paris Agreement.

ACSI, which represents 37 superannuation funds, last week announced it would recommend members vote against the re-election of company directors deemed to be moving too slowly on climate change action.

ACSIs members, including AustralianSuper, REST, Hostplus, and HESTA, collectively own 10 percent of the ASX200, Australias 200 largest publicly listed companies.

Treasurer Frydenberg is pushing for proxy firms, like ACSI and CGI Glass Lewis, to provide their research and advice to companies at least five days before submitting it to shareholders.

Further, proxy firms could also be mandated to obtain an Australian Financial Services Licenselike financial advisors.

The government will also consider whether superannuation firms report their voting records and prove if they are exercising independent judgement on company votes.

Dean Paatsch, director at Ownership Matters, called the treasurers announcement a bizarre intervention.

For a government supposedly committed to deregulation and the removal of red tape, this seems a curious corporate law reform priority, he wrote in an op-ed published in The Australian.

At the urging of corporate Australia, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) did a comprehensive review of proxy advisers in 2017, he added. It had not received a single complaint from sophisticated investors who use their services. Our firm had over 1,500 of our reports examined. Not one error was identified.

He also noted that if there is a free and competitive market for proxy advice, the good research will prevail over bad.

Tim Reed, president of the Business Council of Australia, welcomed the decision saying it was a step towards greater accountability.

The decisions made by proxy advisors have big implications on how businesses run and their ability to make returns for shareholders, so of course the system should be as transparent as possible, he said in a statement.

When proxy advisors provide advice, companies should have a chance to respond, and all the facts should be on the table about how decisions that impact peoples lives are made, he added.

Stephen Soukups recently released book, The Dictatorship of Woke Capital: How Political Correctness Captured Big Business, details how Marxist-leftist ideas began their steady infiltration of the U.S. corporate sector in the 1970s and gradually evolved and expanded over the decades.

The cover of the book The Dictatorship of Woke Capital by Stephen R. Soukup. (Encounter Books)

Within the last 10 years or so, the new version of socially responsible investing, which goes by the initials ESGwhich stands for environmental, social, and corporate governancebegan to be slightly more aggressive and has grown more and more aggressive as time has gone by, he told The Epoch Times Crossroads program.

This has become sort of the de facto way to achieve social ends within this community of professional investors, who have moved significantly to the left over the past quarter-century, he said.

In many cases, investors will try to steer or influence the companys direction via pressure during shareholder meetings or threats of losing further investment in the company.

The result is directors feel compelled to adopt policies to address issues such as gender equality, Black Lives Matter, and climate change.

Last year, one of Australias Big Four banks, ANZ, vowed to end investment in thermal mines and power stations by 2030 in response to climate change.

While in 2019, retail billionaire Gerry Harvey made headlines when he said the struggles of legacy department store brands David Jones and Myers was due to boardroom executives being more concerned with quotas and ticking the boxes than providing an actual retail experience.
Vials labelled "AstraZeneca COVID-19 Coronavirus Vaccine" and a syringe are seen in front of a displayed AstraZeneca logo in this illustration taken March 10, 2021. (Dado Ruvic/Illustration/Reuters)

Australians Over 50 Eligible for AstraZeneca Vaccine From Today

All Australians over the age of 50 can receive AstraZeneca (AZ) vaccines from Monday at general practice respiratory clinics and state and territory vaccination hubs.

The vaccination will be expanded to GP clinics from May 17 with 15.8 million doses available for this phase of the rollout.

NSW Health Minister Brad Hazzard said the number of vaccinations in NSW had started to pick up in recent weeks and called on Australians to get vaccinated as soon as possible.

People should understand the world out there at the moment is a dangerous place, he told Sunrise. We are still an oasis at the moment but at any time that could change.

I would be strongly recommending, as the NSW Health Minister, that people get their vaccine as soon as they can, subject of course to their medical advice and talking with their GP which is the preferred way of getting a vaccine if you can, he added.

New South Wales Health Minister Brad Hazzard speaks at a press conference before receiving the AstraZeneca vaccine at at St George Hospital in Kogarah on March 10, 2021 in Sydney, Australia. (Brook Mitchell/Getty Images)

My advice to people is, having seen what can happen, as I and others have seen what happens to people with COVID, for heavens sake, go and get your vaccine as soon as you are eligible.

National COVID-19 Commissioner Jane Halton echoed Hazzards sentiments telling the Nine NetworkWe need to get on with this.

The only way that we get out of the pandemic is that we either get the disease or get vaccinated, she said.

Chief Medical Officer Paul Kelly has assured the public that regulators and experts would continue to look carefully at the report of any adverse actions, including the most concerned link with blood clots.

My clear message is that the benefit of the vaccine outweighs the risk. People are seeing whats happening in India, Kelly told ABC radio on Monday.

An outbreak could happen in Australia so please do not hesitate, he said. This is not a compulsory vaccine so people have their choice but waiting until the end of the year is not advised.

Kelly did not say much about reports that the federal government is talking with Valneva, a French biotech firm about potentially importing a new COVID-19 vaccine.

Were continuing to have discussions with a range of companies around the world about purchasing any of those, he said.
Australian Treasurer Josh Frydenberg speaks to the media during a visit to Narrabundah Cottage Childcare Centre in Canberra, Australia on May 2, 2021. (AAP Image/Lukas Coch)

Australias Budget Red Hot Despite Pandemic Downturn: Deloitte

Deloitte Access Economics partner Chris Richardson has released his influential, twice-yearly Budget Monitor, which paints a pretty picture for Australias red-hot recovery from the economic impact of the CCP virus pandemic.

As a result, smaller deficits than forecast are expected when Treasurer Josh Frydenberg hands down his budget on May 11. This puts Australia tens of billions of dollars better off than was expected just a few months ago.

Our red-hot recovery is helping the budget get better, Richardson said.

Deloitte said this was the result of jobs returning after last years recession faster than Treasury assumed, soaring iron ore prices, and households willingness to spend.

In fact, there are more jobs now than prior to the pandemic, and far fewer businesses made losses than Treasury expected.

That said, the economy is still under pressure, but just not as much as was previously forecast.

All up, Richardson expects deficits will be almost $100 billion better off over the four financial years to 2023/24 in the budget papers.

He is now forecasting a budget deficit just over $30 billion smaller than the $197 billion predicted in December$167 billion.

For 2021/22, he expects a deficit of $86.8 billion rather than $108.5 billion.

Even smaller deficits are predicted by consultants PwC Australia which projects $144.4 billion in 2020/21 and $43.8 billion in 2021/22.

This trajectory could see the budget back in surplus seven years sooner than predicted in last years October budget, in 2034.

PwC chief economist Jeremy Thorpe said the government can increase spending and still bring in a bottom line that is below the 2020 budget projections.

Shadow treasurer Jim Chalmers said the Deloitte report attributed much of the economic and budget improvement to factors unrelated to the Morrison government.

This includes the substantial and selfless sacrifices of Australians to suppress the virus, the re-opening of state economies and remarkably high global commodity prices.

Instead of a comprehensive plan to create secure, well-paid jobs, the Morrison governments vaccine debacle, cuts to support, ideological attacks on job security and superannuation, and a budget riddled with rorts and waste, will only make things worse, Chalmers told AAP.

AAP contributed to this report.
Biden Adviser: President Not Certain Schools Can Reopen in Fall, Virus Unpredictable

Anita Dunn, a senior adviser to President Joe Biden, told CNN during an interview on Sunday that Biden is not certain schools can reopen full-time for in-person learning this fall because the pandemic is unpredictable.

President Biden said in an interview that schools should probably all be open in the fall. Can you clarify? CNN host Jake Tapper asked. Tapper also questioned Dunn if Biden would stand up to teachers unions if there was pushback about opening for full-time in-person learning.

Now, he said probably. He didnt say absolutely, Dunn said. But, given the science, if the vaccination program in this country proceeds, if people do go get their vaccines, he does believe that schools should be able to reopen in September, and reopen safely, following the CDC guidelines. But he said probably. He said, did not say absolutely, because we have all seen this since, unfortunately, January of 2020. Its an unpredictable virus.

Randi Weingarten, who heads the second-largest teachers union, the American Federation of Teachers, expressed her concerns about the CDCs changing guidelines for schools, especially the change from 6 feet social distancing requirements to 3 feet.

Weingarten wrote a letter (pdf) to CDC director Rochelle Walensky and Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona, sharing that her union is not convinced that the evidence supports changing physical distancing requirements, and urged officials for a national checklist outlining the enhanced mitigation strategies that must be in place if we move to 3 feet physical distancing.

Now that we have had a chance to review the research, we conclude that any shift from 6 feet to 3 feet must be accompanied by, at a minimum, universal and correct masking; effective ventilation; thorough cleaning of buildings; regular COVID-19 testing of teachers, staff and students; effective contact tracing and quarantine/isolation protocols; and the availability of vaccines to all people in schools who are eligible, the union head wrote.

The CDCs guidelines for classrooms include social distancing students with at least 3 feet and more when possible. The rules include masking, regular cleaning, and ventilation.

My concern is the entire education community. In their new regulations or their new guidance, they say that teachers should be six feet apart still from children and from other adults. How do you do that in a classroom? Weingarten told the New Yorker in an April interview.

Weingarten added that trust gets earned when you have the protocols in place and people are actually acting by those protocols.

The union leader said her community is skeptical of the guidelines.

AFT members want to trust the CDC to keep all of us safe, and to trust the Education Department to have students, families and educators well-being as its goal, she wrote, adding that officials could help build that trust by providing answers to their concerns.

Cardona and Walenskys offices did not immediately respond to a request for comment about concerns from teachers unions.

Meanwhile, Dunn praised the administration for prioritizing teachers and school personal for receiving the vaccine and said 80 percent of school personnel have been vaccinated in the effort to get back to normal.

So, Jake, one of the great accomplishments of this administration and one the president is very proud of is an 80 percent of the teachers and school personnel in this country have now been vaccinated, said Dunn.

Weingarten however, thinks vaccinations are only one part of the solution to reopening schools. Our message right now has been: if you have the road map of viral mitigation and testing and vaccines, its safe for you to go to work in person, except for those who are high-risk. We have been pressing to have in-person schooling. So, the vaccines were not a prerequisite for that. The vaccines are an added layer of safety.
Eli Broad waits to speak during a media preview of The Broad Museum in Los Angeles, Calif., on Sept. 16, 2015. (Kevork Djansezian/Reuters)

Billionaire Philanthropist Eli Broad Dies at 87

LOS ANGELESEli Broad, the billionaire entrepreneur turned philanthropist and art collector, died on Friday at the age of 87.

Broad passed away at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles following a long illness, said Suzi Emmerling, a spokeswoman for the Eli and Edythe Broad Foundation.

An accountant by trade who made his fortune in real estate and insurance, Broad helped create The Broad, the Los Angeles museum housing his collection of postwar and contemporary art, which opened in 2015.

Broad contributed heavily to the construction of the nearby Walt Disney Concert Hall as well as an art center at the University of California, Los Angeles.

His donations also helped open the Broad Center at Yale School of Management, and the Broad Institute, a genomic medicine research center created in partnership with Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

As a businessman Eli saw around corners, as a philanthropist he saw the problems in the world and tried to fix them, as a citizen he saw the possibility in our shared community, and as a husband, father and friend he saw the potential in each of us, Gerun Riley, president of the Eli and Edythe Broad Foundation, said in a statement.

Broad was born in the Bronx, New York, in 1933 and moved to Detroit with his family while still young. It was in that Midwestern city that he would begin his career as a real estate developer, building single-family homes in the suburbs.

He invested in an insurance company in the 1970s, renaming it Sun America, and made much of his fortune there before selling the business for $18 billion in the mid-1990s. He and his wife Edythe moved to Los Angeles in 1963.

An avid art collector, Broad turned to philanthropy full time in 1999, according to a biography on the foundations website. He retired from the foundation in 2016.

Broad is survived by Edythe and his two sons, Jeffrey and Gary.

By Dan Whitcomb and Bhargav Acharya
Secretary of State Antony Blinken ahead of the G7 foreign ministers meeting in London on May 3, 2021. (Ben Stansall/various sources/AFP via Getty Images)

Blinken Says China Acting More Aggressively Abroad

WASHINGTONSecretary of State Antony Blinken said in an interview that aired on May 2 that the Chinese communist regime had recently acted more aggressively abroad and was behaving increasingly in adversarial ways.

Asked by CBS News 60 Minutes about whether Washington was heading toward a military confrontation with Beijing, Blinken said: Its profoundly against the interests of both China and the United States, to get to that point, or even to head in that direction.

What weve witnessed over the last several years is China acting more repressively at home and more aggressively abroad. That is a fact.

Asked about the reported theft of hundreds of billions of dollars or more in U.S. trade secrets and intellectual property by China, Blinken said the Biden administration had real concerns about the IP issue.

He said it sounded like the actions of someone whos trying to compete unfairly and increasingly in adversarial ways.

But were much more effective and stronger when were bringing like-minded and similarly aggrieved countries together to say to Beijing, This cant stand and it wont stand,' he said.

The Chinese Embassy in Washington didnt respond on May 2 to a request for comment on Blinkens interview.

On April 30, President Joe Bidens administration said China had fallen short on its commitments to protect American intellectual property in the phase one U.S.China trade deal signed last year.

The commitments were part of the sweeping deal between former President Donald Trumps administration and Beijing, which included regulatory changes on agricultural biotechnology and commitments to purchase some $200 billion in U.S. exports over two years.

Blinken arrived in London on May 2 for a G7 foreign ministers meeting where China is one of the issues on the agenda.

In the interview, Blinken said the United States was not aiming to contain China but to uphold this rules-based order that China is posing a challenge to.

Anyone who poses a challenge to that order, were going to stand up and defend it, he said.

Biden has identified competition with the Chinese regime as his administrations greatest foreign policy challenge. In his first speech to Congress on April 28, he pledged to maintain a strong U.S. military presence in the Indo-Pacific and to boost U.S. technological development.

Blinken said he speaks to Biden pretty close to daily.

Last month, Blinken said the United States was concerned about the Chinese regimes aggressive actions against Taiwan and warned it would be a serious mistake for anyone to try to change the status quo in the Western Pacific by force.

The United States has a longstanding commitment under the Taiwan Relations Act to ensure that self-governing Taiwan has the ability to defend itself and to sustain peace and security in the Western Pacific, Blinken said.

Taiwan has complained over the past few months of repeated missions by Chinas air force near the island.

By David Shepardson
Body of Missing 8-Year-Old Boy Found in Dallas Pool: Officials

Officials said the body of a missing 8-year old boy with autism was found over the weekend in Texas in an apartment complex swimming pool.

Keydall Jones, who is non-verbal, went missing on Friday morning, officials told CBS Dallas. He was last seen around 13600 block of Montfort Drive where the body was found in the pool.

The Dallas County Medical Examiner identified the body as the missing child, according to the CBS affiliate.

His family told NBC DFW that he ran off as the family was trying to get him into their car for school.

Thats what we were believing, that our faith and our hope  that we were going to find him, Athena Jefferson, Jones aunt, said, according to the NBC affiliate. We loved him. Were just hurting right now, he added.

I have grandchildren and stuff, it couldve been mine, said Derenda Mallory, a neighbor, told local media. I knew they were looking for the child. And I was not expecting that. I didnt want that to happen, I wanted him to be safe.

Me and my girlfriend helped search yesterday for a few hours or whatnot. I was hoping that someone had just brought him home, hoping he was good. We didnt think this was going to happen, neighbor David Daniels added.

Police said that the case is still an active ongoing investigation.
Britain's Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab (L) and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken pose for a photo ahead of their bilateral meeting in London, Britain, on May 3, 2021. (Ben Stansall/Pool via Reuters)

US and UK Tell China and Russia: The West Is Not Over Yet

LONDONThe Group of Seven western democracies aims to court new allies to counter challenges from China and Russia without holding Beijing down and while pursuing more stable ties with the Kremlin, two of its top diplomats said on Monday.

Founded in 1975 as a forum for the Wests richest nations to discuss crises such as the OPEC oil embargo, the G7 this week is discussing China and Russia as well as battling the COVID-19 pandemic and the spread of climate change.

It is not our purpose to try to contain China or to hold China down, Blinken told reporters at a news conference alongside British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab.

He said the West would defend the international rules based order from subversive attempts by any country, including China.

The diplomats were keen to let the world know the West will assert itself. Raab spoke of building alliances rather than severing them.

I do see the increasing demand and need for agile clusters of like-minded countries that share the same values and want to protect the multilateral system, Raab said. We can see a shift towards that pattern of clusters of like-minded countries agile enough to work together.

Even without its broader alliance, the G7 still packs a punch: combined it is much bigger than China both economically and militarily.

Moscow Rules

Longer term, there are deep concerns in both Washington and European capitals about how the West should act towards both Beijing and Moscow.

Blinken said the United States would prefer more stable ties with Russia but that much depended on how Russian President Vladimir Putin decided to act, especially in theaters such as Ukraine which Blinken will visit later this week.

We have reaffirmed our unwavering support for the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine, Blinken said.

Were not looking to escalate: we would prefer to have a more stable, more predictable relationship. And if Russia moves in that direction, so will we.

Raab said on Sunday the G7 would look at a proposal to build a rapid response mechanism to counter Russian disinformation, and, in a reference to China, spoke of the need to stand up for open markets and democracy.

In addition to the G7 members Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the United States, Britain has also invited ministers from Australia, India, South Africa and South Korea.

The ministers will lay the groundwork for Bidens first scheduled trip abroad since taking office: a G7 summit in Britain next month.

By William James and Guy Faulconbridge
Future Unclear for LBL Recreation Budget

By Tim Brockwell

LYON COUNTY - Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, already reeling from large reductions to its budget, may be facing even more cuts in the next fiscal year. That's still a bit unclear though, according to a Lyon County official.In 2021 the U.S. Forest Service made drastic cuts to LBL's recreation and heritage budget, which includes things like picnic areas, welcome stations, campgrounds and trail maintenance. The budget went from $1.8 million in the 2020 fiscal year, to just $77,000 in 2021. It appears that may be set to be reduced to zero in 2022, but Lyon County Judge-Executive Wade White says he's been getting mixed signals from USFS officials about exactly what the final budget will look like.White said he attended a meeting in April with USFS officials, who did not explain why the budget was being cut to zero. He added that officials later told him the money would be there, but was being moved to another part of the budget.White said that explanation doesn't add up."They went through and explained that in 2022 this budget will actually go to zero for recreation and heritage, and had no real good answers what they were going to do to make up almost $2.5 million that was not projected to be in the budget," White said. "One of the explanations was they've taken the pay of all the employees out of those numbers, and that is stuck in the budget somewhere in D.C. The problem is I don't think they were spending $1.7 million on employee pay to have only $77,000 left in the budget for heritage and recreation. It doesn't make sense, and they won't explain that cut. They keep saying it's somewhere else, but they won't tell me where it's at."Forest Service officials are now saying the whole thing was a misunderstanding, according to White."Now they're telling our legislators that all of this was a big mistake, and the funding's gonna be there. I'm just not buying it. I think there's more to this," He said. "I'm glad they are saying there's gonna be plenty of money there. I just need them to show it to me. I need to see it. Because what they've showed me, there's no numbers there. I'm gonna trust a little bit, but I need verification."White said the government assured the people who were displaced decades ago due to the formation of Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley that LBL would be beneficial in the long run, bringing tourism and other business to the area. He said he isn't sure if those promises are being kept."All the people that got pushed out of there, they were given some promises. One of the promises was that they would make sure that, economically, the counties around LBL would benefit from tourism. I don't know if that promise is being kept with the way they set up the budget." White said.White said he won't stop until he gets a clear explanation as to where exactly the recreation and heritage money is in the budget."I think the people elected me to have a cautious eye on things like this, and I'm gonna carry through with what they elected me to do." He said.Calls to the U.S. Forest Service for comment have not been returned.
Guests walk along the Main Street USA at Disneyland in Anaheim, Calif., on April 30, 2021. (Jae C. Hong/AP Photo)

California Disneyland Reopens but You Cant Hug Mickey Mouse

LOS ANGELESMasks, temperature checks and no hugs with Mickey Mouse greeted visitors to Disneyland in California on Friday as Walt Disneys original theme park reopened for the first time in over a year.

Under coronavirus pandemic guidelines, The Happiest Place on Earth was opened only to California residents and capacity was limited to 25 percent to allow for social distancing.

It was just really nice to be back around all the energy, and the cast members were so welcoming, said Lauren England, one of the first day visitors.

Guests, age 2 and older, were required to wear masks and there were none of the usual hugs with costumed characters like Mickey Mouse and Snow White.

A family takes a photo in front of Sleeping Beautys Castle at Disneyland in Anaheim, Calif., on April 30, 2021. (Jae Hong/AP Photo)

There will be no parades, and the nightly fireworks displays have been put on hold to prevent crowds from gathering closely together.

Jocelyn Bonilla, who was among more than 28,000 Disney theme park workers to be furloughed during the long closure, was delighted to be back.

I am one of the ones that got let go, so it feels good to be back, she said. Seeing everyone back, seeing everything back to normal, its amazing.

Tickets to Disneyland are sold out through mid-June, according to the parks online reservation system, but there is more availability in the adjacent California Adventure.

Theme parks were among the last California businesses allowed to reopen, in contrast to states with fewer restrictions such as Florida, where Disney Worlds Magic Kingdom resort has been up and running, though at lower-than-usual capacity, since July. Another major U.S. amusement park, Ohios Cedar Point, opened last summer and will do so again for the upcoming seasononly this time, it wont require masks on rides.

Disneyland, located 35 miles south of Los Angeles in Anaheim, opened in 1955.

Walt Disney Co closed its theme parks around the world in March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Disneyland Paris is currently closed. Disney parks in Shanghai, Tokyo and Hong Kong are open.

The Associated Press contributed to this report
Conservative MP John Williamson rises uring Question Period in the House of Commons in Ottawa, Canada, on April 13, 2021. (Adrian Wyld/The Canadian Press)

Canada Spent Nearly $6 Million on Chinese Contracts Since Arrest of 2 Michaels

Canada has awarded nearly $6 million in contracts to China-based firms since Beijings arbitrary detention of Canadians Michael Spavor and Michael Kovrig, according to Conservative MP John Williamson.

First reported by Blacklocks, Williamson, through an inquiry on March 10, received reports showing that federal departments and agencies issued $5.8 million in contracts to firms based in China or owned by firms based there between 2019 and 2020.

Beijing holds two Canadians hostage, spies on our companies, undermines our institutions and openly threatens us, Williamson posted on Twitter Wednesday. Yet its business as usual in Ottawa as Canadas Liberals hand millions of tax dollars to Chinese firms.

Spavor and Kovrig were arbitrarily detained in China in December 2018. Their detention is widely considered as a hostile retaliation from Beijing against Ottawas arrest of Huaweis chief financial officer Meng Wanzhou nine days earlier at the request of the United States.

Meng is under house arrest in Vancouver as her extradition case makes its way through court. She is accused of bank fraud for allegedly misleading HSBC in an attempt to evade U.S. sanctions against Iran.

Spavor was put on trial on March 19 for spying and illegally sending state secrets abroad, while Kovrig was tried a few days later on charges of spying into state secrets and intelligence for foreign entities. Consular access to both court hearings was denied.

A man holds a sign calling for the release of Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor outside B.C. Supreme Court where Huawei chief financial officer Meng Wanzhou was attending a hearing, in Vancouver, Canada, on Jan. 21, 2020. (Darryl Dyck/The Canadian Press)

The details in Williamsons inquiry show that a number of government departments, Crown corporations, and agencies account for most of the spending on the Chinese contracts, reported the National Post.

For instance, the Public Health Agency of Canada had contracts with China Sinopharm International worth $228,614.40 to provide disposable nitrile gloves. The entity is a wholly owned subsidiary of state-backed China National Pharmaceutical Group (Sinopharm).

A unit of Sinopharms subsidiary China National Biotec GroupBeijing Biological Products Institute (BBPI)develops the Sinopharm COVID-19 vaccine that has an efficacy rate between 11.5 percent to 33 percent, according to a March 10 report on Speevr, a California-based financial technology platform, in contrast to 79.43 percent claimed by BBPI in December 2020.

Meanwhile, the National Research Council (NRC) has contracts with Chinese companies that amount to $330,000.

In May 2020, the NRC partnered with CanSino Biologics Inc, a Tianjin-based biopharmaceutical company to develop the COVID-19 vaccine. However, the partnership came to a halt after the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) blocked the shipment of doses for clinical trials in Canada in August.

The folded partnership, according to experts in the intelligence community, was in line with the CCPs broader espionage campaign, and the knowledge gained from such programs could benefit the Chinese military and security apparatus.

David Mulroney, Canadas former ambassador to Beijing, criticized the federal government for not setting the right direction for its bureaucrats regarding China matters.

A government on autopilot, unwilling to signal change to its public servants, he wrote on Twitter on April 28.

Global Affairs Canada spent about $753,000 on Chinese contracts, on grounds that the funding available to satisfy the departments operational requirements at missions located around the globe, including China, requires that contracts with foreign vendors be issued to acquire goods and services, the department said in response to the inquiry, the National Post reported.

National Defence, however, spent just $305.65 on cable and chemical supplies.

In July 2020, Chinese firm Nuctech was awarded a $6.8 million contract with the federal government to install X-ray security equipment for 170 Canadian embassies, consulates, and high commissions around the world.

But the deal was cancelled following public outcry that Nuctech poses national security threats to Canada. The firm was founded by the son of former CCP leader Hu Jintao and has connections to the highest levels of the CCP, as well as links to the Chinese military.

Dan Danagher, assistant deputy minister of International Platform at Global Affairs, told a Commons committee in November 2020 that the department had reviewed Nuctech based on two questions: whether the equipment would be handling sensitive information or be connected to Canadas information network.

When those two questions were considered negative, this was considered low-risk, and it was the paradigm that existed at that time, Danagher said.

When it comes to Crown corporation, the Export Development Canada (EDC) awarded $2.2 million worth of contracts to Chinese firms, out of which $1.3 million was given to China International Intellectech Group Co., Ltd, a human resources firm headquartered in Beijing, managed by the CCP. EDC facilitates Canadian small and medium companies to expand their businesses internationally, including in China.

Canada Post, another Crown corporation, declined to provide details on the amount it contracts with Air China and Orient Overseas Container Line Canada Limited, saying its commercially sensitive.

The Canadian Mint, which produces Canadas circulation coins and collector coins, had Chinese contracts worth nearly $1.9 million between October 2019 and March 2021.

Destination Canada, a tourism agency that markets Canada locally and globally, awarded $256,000 in contracts to Chinese suppliers, with one contract amounting to nearly $54,000 to a map publisher. The agency is wholly owned by the Canadian government.

Some federal departments told the National Post that the data may not be complete because the request included businesses owned by entities based in China, and not all departments catalog it. Information deemed to be of national security concerns are not provided, particularly from departments such as the Canadian Security Intelligence Service.

With reporting from Andrew Chen.
Wreckage and debris from a capsized boat washes ashore at Cabrillo National Monument near where a boat capsized just off the San Diego coast, Calif., on May 2, 2021. (Denis Poroy/AP Photo)

Captain of Suspected Human Smuggling Boat in Custody After Boat Overturns

The man who is suspected to have operated a suspected human smuggling vessel that overturned off the coast of San Diego was taken into custody.

Authorities said that at least four people have died and more than 20 were hospitalized when the boat overturned Sunday.

Every indication from our perspective is that this was a smuggling vessel to smuggle migrants into the United States illegally, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Supervisory Agent Jeff Stephenson said during a news conference Sunday.

Stephenson said that agents are holding the man who is suspected to be the smuggler behind the operation. The suspected captains name was not disclosed to the media.

The captain, according to Brandon Tucker, another CBP official, said he is a bit out of it, but he is speaking to agents on scene.

Were assuming that it was illegal migration, but generally they are smaller, in the 20 to 30-foot range, generally about 20-plus migrants, he said. This one was a bit larger than normal, but for overcrowding on these vessels, the unsafe conditions on these vessels, its the same, its just slightly larger.

A U.S. Coast Guard helicopter flies over boats searching the area where a boat capsized just off the San Diego coast, in San Diego, on May 2, 2021. (Denis Poroy/AP Photo)

The injuries of the survivors range from hypothermia to physical injuries sustained when the boat broke apart in what was described as rough and choppy water.

Conditions were pretty rough, five to six feet of surf, windy, cold, water is around 60 degrees, so you get hypothermia pretty quickly, said Lifeguard Lt. Rick Romero with San Diego Fire-Rescue. The boat was on the reef, bouncing back and forth, and then just slowly disintegrated into a bunch of pieces, so theres no boat there, its all debris.

Seven people were pulled from the waves, including three who drowned, said Romero. One person was rescued from a cliff and 22 others managed to make it to shore on their own, he said.

Officials said the group was overcrowded on a 40-foot cabin cruiser that is larger than the typical open-top wooden panga-style boats often used by smugglers to bring people illegally into the United States from Mexico.

Border Patrol on Friday said law enforcement officials would be ramping up operations to disrupt maritime smuggling off the coast of San Diego this weekend. As warmer weather comes to San Diego, there is a misperception that it will make illegal crossings safer or easier, the agency said in a statement.

The Department of Homeland Security has not responded yet to a request for comment.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
A worker gets ready to pass out instructions in how fill out the 2020 census during a town hall meeting in Lithonia, Ga., on Aug. 13, 2019. (John Amis/AP Photo)

Census Bureau: White House Didnt Interfere in 2020 Census

The Census Bureau says the White House wasnt involved with the 2020 census, after Republicans questioned whether President Joe Bidens administration interfered with the results.

The processing of 2020 Census responses and calculation of the apportionment results were completed within the U. S. Census Bureau and did not have any White House involvement. In fact, no one in the White House or Commerce Department saw the results until apportionment day, the Census Bureau told The Epoch Times via email.

A group of House Republicans noted that in a number of instances, red states ended up with lower population counts than an estimate from last year pegged them as having. On the other hand, blue states saw their populations increase over the estimates.

Remarkably, the differences benefit traditionally blue stateswhich gained population compared to the estimatesover red states which tended to lose population compared to the estimates, the group, led by House Oversight Committee ranking member James Comer (R-Ky.), said in a letter to the bureau.

This trend calls into question whether there was any political interference with the apportionment results released by the Census Bureau, they added.

But the bureau said the allegation stems from a misunderstanding, giving a timeline wherein a House Oversight staffer requested an advanced copy of the apportionment data on April 26.

The bureau rejected the request, noting that federal law requires a process of transmission first to the secretary of commerce, then from the secretary to the president, who finally delivers it to Congress.

The Census Bureau had numerous quality checks built into collecting the data, and the Census Bureau has conducted one of the most comprehensive reviews in recent census history during data processing. We are confident that the 2020 Census results meet our high data quality standards. We plan to respond to the letter from House Oversight, the bureau stated.

A spokesperson for Republicans on the House Oversight Committee told The Epoch Times in an email, We look forward to the U.S. Department of Commerce fully answering the questions asked in the Republican lawmakers letter.
Children Must Not Be Vaccinated for COVID-19

Commentary

Whats the rationale for vaccinating children for COVID-19? Wheres the data, the science that would support this move? We see none, and we think its dangerous.

Why would there be a push to vaccinate 6-month-old babies or 10-year-old children via an experimental vaccine that delivers genetic code into your cells instructing it to produce a portion of the virus (the S or Spike protein), yet with no safety data and based on trials that didnt run to the required duration to adequately assess the safety of the vaccine?

Why put our children at undue risk when they can be allowed to be infected naturally and harmlessly as part of day-to-day living, by mingling?

This is illogical, irrational, unsound, and, we argue, an absurd position of experts who should know better.

What Is the Risk?

Theres no basis for vaccinating children from COVID-19 as is being suggested by Dr. Fauci (from 6 months to 11 years old). Children are at very low risk of illness, especially severe illness from COVID-19, and children do not spread the illness. The most updated data from the American Academy of Pediatrics showed that Children were 0.00 percent0.19 percent of all COVID-19 deaths, and 10 [U.S.] states reported zero child deaths. In states reporting, 0.00 percent0.03 percent of all child COVID-19 cases resulted in death.

As another example, a high-quality robust study in the French Alps examined the spread of the SAR-CoV-2 virus via a cluster of COVID-19 cases. They followed one infected child who visited three different schools and interacted with other children, teachers, and various adults. They reported no instances of secondary transmission despite close interactions. These data have been available to the CDC and other health experts for over a year.

Swedish researchers published a paper in the New England Journal of Medicine in January 2021 on COVID-19 among children 1 to 16 years of age and their teachers in Sweden. From the nearly 2 million children in school in Sweden, it was reported that with no mask mandates, there were zero deaths from COVID-19 and a few instances of transmission and minimal hospitalization.

A study published in Nature found no instances of asymptomatic spread from positive asymptomatic cases among all 1,174 close contacts of the cases, based on a base sample of 10 million people. The World Health Organization (WHO) also made this claim that asymptomatic spread/transmission is rare. This issue of asymptomatic spread is the key issue being used to force vaccination in children. The science, however, remains contrary to this proposed policy mandate.

Not only is there an absence of evidence supporting the notion that children spread the virus in any meaningful way and thus the necessity to vaccinate, theres also direct evidence showing that they simply do not spread this virus/disease. This has been shown in school settings and as published in other papers.

Children typically, if infected, have asymptomatic illness. Its well-noted that asymptomatic cases are not the drivers of the pandemic. In this regard its evident that children are not the key drivers of SARS-CoV-2 infection, unlike how they are the drivers of seasonal influenza.

In the rare cases where a child is infected with SARS-CoV-2, its exceptionally rare for the child to get severely ill or die. And to reiterate, teachers are not at risk of transmission from children (its the other way around).

The pediatric literature suggests that this is now settled science as to the very low or exceedingly rare risk (near zero) for children.

Risks Versus Benefits

Children should not be carte blanche subjected to the same policies as adults without careful examination of the benefits versus the risks. Of course, zero risk is not attainablewith or without mask mandates, lockdowns, vaccines, therapeutics, distancing, or anything else medicine may develop or government agencies may impose.

For nearly all children under 20 years of age, the risks from getting COVID-19 are exceedingly small, and for children the risk of death is basically near zero (pdf)its the closest to zero we can get to. So the cost-benefit argument against using an essentially untested vaccine is heavily in favor of risk and virtually no benefit.

The potential risk of unknown and serious side effects from the brand-new and barely tested vaccines arein truthcompletely unknown. Thats because its almost unheard of for a vaccine to be released to the public this quickly. That doesnt mean you shouldnt get the vaccine.

Were certainly not anti-vaxxers and certainly children should receive their measles, mumps, and rubella vaccines among others, as these have had a dramatic effect on morbidity and mortality for decades. For populations where the risk of death or serious illness from COVID-19 is substantialmiddle-aged and older adults or individuals with other chronic medical vulnerabilities such as serious respiratory, cardiac, or immunological problemsusing a new and barely tested vaccine is not only reasonable, it may and can be the most prudent and responsible thing to do.

Inexplicably, there has been a recent flurry of statements supporting the vaccination of children. Of course, this also means that the experimental vaccines must be tested in children prior to mass introduction and use.

Moderna Inc. has recently announced that its beginning an mRNA vaccine study on children 6 months to 11 years in the United States and Canada, in the latest effort to broaden the mass-vaccination campaign beyond adults.

This pediatric study will help us assess the potential safety and immunogenicity of our Covid-19 vaccine candidate in this important younger age population, Moderna Chief Executive Stephane Bancel has stated. On the basis of the literature weve discussed here, its clear that his statement is patently false. Alarmingly, we have come to learn that dosing has already been started by Moderna.

This really is a question of risk-management, and parents must seriously consider that COVID-19 is a far less dangerous illness for children than influenza. Parents must be brave and be willing to assess this purely from a benefit versus risk position and ask themselves, If my child has little if any risk, near zero risk of severe sequelae or death, and thus no benefit from the vaccine, yet there could be potential harms and as yet unknown harms from the vaccine (as already reported in adults who have received the vaccines), then why would I subject my child to such a vaccine?

A Call for Caution

We also write this as a call for caution. This really is about risk management decisions we as free people, and as parents, are allowed to make in the United States. Remember, also, young children cant give proper informed consent. This is an important ethical matter.

The death rate in children under 12 is as close to zero as we can get. We have masked our children, closed schools, locked them down, and driven surges in suicides in adults as well as our children due to these policies, and now we seek to vaccinate children with an experimental vaccine for which we have no data on the long-term harms. This is very unsafe in our opinion.

Its not even about if they show that the vaccine is safe for kids; the issue is theres no basis for it. The CDC and experts like Dr. Fauci, in our opinion, have been wrong on lockdowns, school closures, mask mandates, and other restrictions. They have all created an utter mess for our societies as we begin emerging from the pain of the punitive unsound lockdowns and school closures.

Parents must now step up and demand that health officials and vaccine developers (and any entity with interests in the development of these vaccines) make their case for vaccinating their children. Do not simply accept this, for theres no credible reason for it. Force these people to make their case, and if they cant, if in your own risk-management assessment it doesnt make sense, then dont do it. Its not like buying a pair of shoes for them. They could be left with a lifetime of severe illness and disability and even death if something goes wrong.

We havent done the safety testing nor will any proposed study be able to collect that data for the time period its needed. Sample size can never compensate for time. Remember the disaster with the polio vaccine in 1955 and the Cutter incident; remember the dengue vaccine in 2017 (Dengvaxia) and the dangerous plasma leakage syndrome where the vaccine posed a risk for those children without prior infection; remember the H1N1 2009 vaccine and narcolepsy; remember the vaccine for RSV in the 1960s; remember the measles vaccine in the 1960s and the impact on children; remember the 1977 DPT vaccine, and so on.

Furthermore, its nonsensical to suggest that the virus variants may drive infection in children and harm them, and theres no basis for such a statement. For those who are trying to frighten parents with the illogical and absurd statements that a lethal strain may emerge among the variants, then we argue that you are using terms like may and could and might. We can find no evidence to support such claims. Its simply rampant speculation!

Making such claims is not science, and decisions based on such claims are not evidence-based. We need to see the actual science and not just rampant speculation by often nonsensical media medical experts.

Alarmingly, evidence is accumulating that the spike protein itself may be pathogenic and deadly on its own, and were concerned by the implication of this given were injecting the full spike or mRNA to code for it.

Dr. Patrick Whelan, a UCLA pediatrician, shares our grave concerns and writes, I am concerned about the possibility that the new vaccines aimed at creating immunity against the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein (including the mRNA vaccines of Moderna and Pfizer) have the potential to cause microvascular injury to the brain, heart, liver and kidneys in a way that is not currently being assessed in safety trials of these drugs.

Whelan states in his December 2020 letter to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Before any of these vaccines are approved for widespread use in humans, it is important to assess in vaccinated subjects the effects of vaccination on the heart.  Vaccinated patients could also be tested for distant tissue damage in deltoid area skin biopsies.  As important as it is to quickly arrest the spread of the virus by immunizing the population, it would be worse if hundreds of millions of people were to suffer long-lasting damage to their brain or heart microvasculature as a result of failing to appreciate in the short-term an unintended effect of full-length spike protein-based vaccines on these other organs.

The Way Forward

Children should live normally, and if exposed to SARS-CoV-2, we can rest assured that in the vast majority of cases, they will have no to only mild symptoms while at the same time developing naturally acquired immunityan immunity that is definitely superior to that which might be caused by a vaccine. This approach would also accelerate the development of the much-needed herd immunity about which much has been written.

Allow child-to-child daily interaction. Harmless and natural exposure. Not only will that drive the adaptive immunity but it will give the children a more robust defense against any mutant variants of the virus itself. This will also allow our childrens immune systems to be taxed and tuned up daily, as opposed to the weakening we are subjecting them to with the year-long lockdowns and school closures.

We do it while at the same time strongly protecting the elderly who are frail, the elderly in general, and those with comorbid conditions and obese individuals. We must use stringent protections of our nursing homes and other similar congregated settings (including the staff, who remain often the source of the infection). Its better science to use a more focused protection and targeting thats based on age and known risk factors, especially regarding the children.

We ask the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC) and other governmental agency spokespersons give clarity to this burgeoning societal risk. We ask that testing of the vaccines in children be halted post-haste. This is based not only on putative risks associated with mass vaccination but even more specifically because, and as we have said, children simply dont need a vaccine for COVID-19.

Further, we request that governmental agencies elucidate the risk-benefits of such vaccines to children before proceeding to another emergency use authorization of vaccines in this population.

In closing, we remain skeptical about the safety of the currently administered vaccines in general, since the FDA issued an emergency use authorization and didnt apply the needed full regulatory Biologics License Applications approval. This continues to concern us greatly, since the safety component has not been fully assessed and essentially means that all persons taking COVID-19 vaccines at present are in a large Phase III trial.

The efficacy and safety results will be known in two to three years, and perhaps longer for the longer-term adverse effects that become known at a later date.

Exposing children to an untested emergency use medication implies that theres a dire risk to the children without it. Theres no data to support such a potential risk, and for any medical expert to imply otherwise is duplicitous. Its time government agencies and their medical experts stop spinning the information and come clean with the public, especially when it comes to our children.

If theres a credible basis, if theres evidence, then bring the evidence and let us have a look at it, but until then, please, we ask you, to leave our children alone.

Dr. Paul Elias Alexander, Ph.D., has extensive training in evidence-based medicine and clinical epidemiology as well as being a research methodologist. He has graduate schooling at Oxford in the UK, the University of Toronto, McMaster in Hamilton, Ontario, and some training in the epidemiology of bioterrorism at Johns Hopkins under Dr. Donald Henderson (who eradicated small pox).

Howard Tenenbaum, DDS, Ph.D., is the dentist-in-chief at Mount Sinai, as well as head of the division of research at the hospitals dentistry department.

Parvez Dara, M.D., MBA, is an oncologist in Toms River, New Jersey. He received his medical degree from King Edward Medical University and has been in practice for more than 20 years.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
CCP-Linked Firms May Have Received More Than $400 Million in Virus Relief Loans

Federal tax officials should launch a forensic audit and investigation of more than 125 U.S. firms with significant links to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) that received up to $420 million in Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan funds last year, according to the founder of a citizens group devoted to government transparency.

Communist Chinese defense contractors used a legal loophole to hijack up to $400 million meant for small businesses on Main Street at the peak of the pandemic. Its time to forensic audit these firms. On behalf of the American taxpayer and mom and pop businesses everywhere, the IRS must investigate and claw back any ill-gotten gains, Open the Books founder and Chief Executive Officer Adam Andrzejewski told The Epoch Times on May 3.

Open the Books is an Illinois-based educational foundation that filed more than 40,000 Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests in 2020 for documentation of government spending at all levels to advance its goal of ensuring citizens have access to every dime online, in real time.

Andrzejewski was referring to a report published in August 2020 by Horizon Advisory, a strategic consulting firm, that found the massive outflow of U.S. tax dollars to companies with known links to the CCP.

Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), who was chairman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship at the time, inserted provisions designed to prevent such PPP loans from being awarded by the Small Business Administration (SBA).

Rubios reforms were adopted in a second round of PPP funding by Congress that was signed into law by President Donald Trump in December 2020.

Much of the PPP funding that ended up going to the CCP-linked firms could have been obtained easily from sources other than U.S. taxpayers, according to the report.

Many of these firms, by virtue of their Chinese government support and connections to large PRC-based conglomerates, conceivably could access sources of capital from public or private markets to support their U.S. operations, the report said.

Even so, the report, which received little mainstream media coverage when it was first published, continues to cause significant ripples in other news outlets, including Just the News, which on May 1 awarded the Department of Treasury and SBA its Golden Horseshoe award, a weekly designation for examples of waste, fraud, and abuse in federal spending.

Andrzejewski highlighted the report in an April 19 Real Clear Policy column, in which he pointed to three of the CCP-linked firms that got the PPP loans:

Nanjing Xinbai, a Chinese state-invested company tied to the CCP through a controlling shareholder who owns Dendreon Pharmaceuticals, a California-based biotech company, which received a loan worth $5 million to $10 million.

Aviation Industry Corp. of China is a Chinese military company that owns Continental Aerospace Technologies (CAT). The latter received $10 million under PPP.

A China-based entry in the Fortune Global 500, Chinas HNA Group, a real estate, aviation, and financial services transactions company, owns HNA Group North America LLC and HNA Training Center NY, both of which received loans of up to $1 million.

Rubio told The Epoch Times on May 3 that he also supports aggressive enforcement and prosecution by the Department of Justice (DOJ) of firms that got funds fraudulently under the PPP.

The Paycheck Protection Program saved tens of millions of jobs last year and kept countless small businesses alive through the worst of the economic lockdowns. Any entity that fraudulently obtained a PPP loan should be denied forgiveness and prosecuted, Rubio said.

Every federal agency and every lawmaker needs to take the threat from Beijing seriously, and ensure U.S. tax dollars arent giving Chinese firms an unfair advantage over American small businesses.

The anti-CCP funding provision that Rubio was able to add to the December PPP refunding measure prohibited any entity or owner of an entity in China, companies with Peoples Republic of China residents on their board, or Foreign Agent Registration Act registrants from being eligible for PPP loans.

Earlier this year, Rubio also reintroduced a more comprehensive bill designed to stop China from tapping into any SBA funds.

Other members of Congress declined to respond to The Epoch Times requests for comment, including Sen. Ben Cardin (D-Md.), who became chairman of the Senate small business panel in January, and Kentuckys Sen. Rand Paul, the ranking Republican.

On the House side, spokesmen for House Small Business Committee Chairman Nydia Margarita Velazquez Serrano (D-N.Y.) and Missouri Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer, the top Republican, didnt immediately respond to requests for comment.

Earlier this year, the DOJ announced that at least 120 individuals and entities have been charged with a variety of crimes since the PPP program was begun in 2020. None of the 120, however, are known to be among the 125 firms with CCP links.

The cases involve a range of conduct, from individual business owners who have inflated their payroll expenses to obtain larger loans than they otherwise would have qualified for, to serial fraudsters who revived dormant corporations and purchased shell companies with no actual operations to apply for multiple loans [while] falsely stating they had significant payroll, to organized criminal networks submitting identical loan applications and supporting documents under the names of different companies, the DOJ said in a March 26 statement.

Most charged defendants have misappropriated loan proceeds for prohibited purposes, such as the purchase of houses, cars, jewelry, and other luxury items, the statement said.

Congressional correspondent Mark Tapscott may be reached at mark.tapscott@epochtimes.nyc
From left, Peter Spears, Frances McDormand, Chloe Zhao, Mollye Asher and Dan Janvey, winners of the award for best picture for "Nomadland," pose in the press room at the Oscars at Union Station in Los Angeles on April 25, 2021. (Chris Pizzello, Pool/AP)

Chloe Zhaos Family Silent After Oscar Win

On April 25, Nomadland won the Oscar for best picture. The films director, Chloe Zhao, won the best director award, becoming the first Asian woman to win this award.

Zhaos previous works include Songs My Brothers Taught Me (2015) and The Rider (2017), both of which were selected for the Cannes Film Festival in France. She is regarded as the most high-profile emerging female director in recent years and was picked up by Marvel to direct its new film Eternals.

Nomadland also brought Zhao Best Director awards at the Golden Globe Awards, the Critics Choice Movie Awards, and the Directors Guild of America Awards, as well as nearly 40 other awards and titles worldwide. Growing up in Beijing, Zhao has undoubtedly brought honor to the Chinese people even if she has also become a taboo for the CCP.

Zhaos stepmothers silence

Zhao, 38, was born in Beijing. Her father, Zhao Yuji, was the former general manager and vice chairman of Shougang Group. Her mother, Huang Tao, works in a hospital, and her stepmother is famous Chinese comedian Song Dandan.

Each time Zhao won an award in the past, Song Dandan congratulated her little darling on Weibo, praising her for excelling over western people in their home court and hoping her success would inspire Chinese children. This time, although Zhao won the supreme honor of Oscar, Song did not publicly say a word.

Song Dandan, let me congratulate Zhao Ting (Chloes Chinese name) for you this time, said Cow Chan, a Hong Kong We Media person who calls herself an artistic and cynical youth.

Song Dandan couldnt say it publicly. Let me, a humble person, do it for herbut I dont know how long Hong Kong people will have this freedom. After all, the live broadcast of the Oscars has become a taboo in Hong Kong today, Chan said.

Zhao Ting, congratulations. You will always be a legend in your stepmothers mind, even if its an unmentionable legend, even if you have lost the market of over a billion people because of your sincerity and frankness.

CCP official media silent, related information blocked online

News of Zhaos Oscar win was not immediately reported by any of the CCPs main official media outlets. The broadcast of the Oscar ceremony was shut out in Hong Kong and mainland China. People were not allowed to even privately supporting Zhao.

On the day Zhao won, her NYU alumni broadcast the ceremony live from a small bar on the Bund in Shanghai, but it was also blocked by Chinas Great Firewall. The event organizers virtual private network (VPN) service was blocked for nearly two hours.

On March 1, the day Zhao won the best director award at the Golden Globes, Chinas official media Global Times, an English-language newspaper, immediately ran an article titled Chinas Pride, congratulating Zhao on her win. But the next day, it published another article titled Chinese or American? Chinese netizens question the nationality of Golden Globe-winning director Chloe Zhao to minimize the impact of her win.

All of these actions are the CCPs response to Zhaos remarks insulting China made in 2013.

So what remarks insulting China did Zhao make? She said in an interview to Filmmaker magazine in 2013, It goes back to when I was a teenager in China, being in a place where there are lies everywhere.

A lot of info I received when I was younger was not true, and I became very rebellious toward my family and my background. I went to England suddenly and relearned my history. Studying political science in a liberal arts college was a way for me to figure out what is real. Arm yourself with information, and then challenge that too.

Acceptance speech

In her acceptance speech, Zhao read a line from the Three Character Classic in Chinese and English that says, Men at their birth are naturally good. She stressed that she still believes this to be true.

I still truly believe them today, even though sometimes it might seem like the opposite is true, but I have always found goodness in the people I met everywhere I went in the world. So this is for anyone who has the faith and the courage to hold on to the goodness in themselves. And to hold on to the goodness in each other, no matter how difficult it is to do that, Zhao said.

Nomadland is Zhaos third feature film. She directed, wrote, produced, and edited the film, which tells the story of a woman who, after her husbands death, sells all her belongings and leaves her small town to travel through the American Midwest. During the trip, she meets a lot of people, experiences different emotional entanglements, and yet, in the suffering sees the goodness of human nature.

Its impossible for China to be seen as Zhaos home court because the CCP decides what films are allowed to be made in China. It can only be the CCPs home court.
A general view of Townsville with the port in the background is seen in the electorate of Herbert in Townsville, Australia on May 4, 2019. (Ian Hitchcock/Getty Images)

Crewman of Ship Flees Quarantine at Aussie Port as 12 More Claim Asylum

The MV Polaris livestock ship has sailed away from the Port of Townsville on Monday, leaving behind 12 crew members who claimed asylum in Australia, one of whom fled quarantine, prompting an urgent manhunt.

The crew were quarantined on board the ship when one crewman of Pakistani heritage made his dash away and into parts of the city unknown. But after a 24 hour search, the individual handed himself into a local police station.

Australian Border Force (ABF) told The Epoch Times that they were notified on Saturday that 12 crew members in total had disembarked from the vessel and had refused to re-board.

The crew, many of whom were of Syrian descent, then claimed asylum. ABF has cancelled their visas as a matter of course, a spokesperson for the ABF said.

The ABF said it was working with Queensland authorities to provide safe quarantine and detention of the crew.

Individuals who wish to seek Australias protection from, and are found to engage Australias non-refoulement (non-return) obligations, may be granted permanent protection provided they are also able to fulfil the relevant visa criteria, which includes the health, character and security requirements that apply to all Australian visas, the spokesperson said.

However, each case is assessed on its individual merits, with the safety in particular countries being a factor of consideration.

Queensland Health has since reported that theyve all tested negative for COVID-19.

Eleven crew members have been tested so far, and all are negative. One further crew member has returned a negative test result as of this morning, a Queensland Health spokesman said on Monday.

We are providing support to protect the Townsville community and ensure the health of officers from the agencies involved and the vessels crew.

Risk to the community is considered extremely low, and there is no indication anyone on board the international vessel has been recently inflected.

Local MP Phillip Thompson told the Townsville Bulletin that twelve of the Polaris 3s crew who claimed asylum have been transported for quarantine at a facility near Townsville where they will be processed.

It is believed that the crew had been on board for many months, having not been allowed to disembark at other ports due to COVID-19 concerns, The Townsville Bulletin said.

The Panama flagged ship, which had travelled from China, has now departed Townsville and is bound for Jakarta, online tracking data shows.
Then-Chinese vice chair Xi Jinping unveils a plaque at the opening of Australia's first Chinese Medicine Confucius Institute at the RMIT University in Melbourne on June 20, 2010. (William West/AFP via Getty Images)

Director of Slovak Confucius Institute Allegedly Threatens Independent Scholar

Luboslav Stora, the former director of the Confucius Institute (CI) in Slovakias Bratislava, drew attention for sending intimidating messages in emails to Matej Simalcik, one of the key independent experts on China in Central and East European countries.

Stora had served as the head of the Slovak branch of communist Chinas tech giant ZTE before he worked for the CI, which was founded in 2007 on basis of an agreement between Chinas Tianjin University and the Slovak University of Technology.

Simalcik is the executive director of the Central European Institute of Asian Studies (CEIAS). In 2020, he and Adam Kalivoda published an investigative report titled Chinas inroads into Slovak universities: Protecting academic freedoms from authoritarian malign interference (pdf). They warned Slovak academic institutions about the risk of cooperating with Chinese entities, given the nature of the [authoritarian] Chinese regime.

Their study revealed that 25 out of 113 academic interactions between Slovakia and China had links to the Chinese Communist Partys (CCP) Peoples Liberation Army (PLA); that over 60 percent of those relations were with Chinese universities categorized as either high risk or very high risk by the Australian Strategic Policy Institute (ASPI), including Northwestern Polytechnical University. Moreover, less than half of the concluded cooperation agreements are published in Slovakias Central Registry of Contracts.

The report gave particular attention to three CIs and three Confucius Classrooms in Slovakia, which were criticized for a lack of transparency in the areas of their financing and hiring processes, which worried the co-authors.

According to journalist William Yangs report on Medium, Stora, however, wrote in an email to Simalcik, saying: Good morning, are you sleeping well? and You should be under a lot of stress when you walk down the street, and used abusive language like Who finances this nonsense for you?

In response, Simalcik politely asked Stora to apologize for his unwarranted comments. But the latter continued to menace the independent scholar with words like Be Patient, Big Brother is watching you, and P.S.: sleep better, its a heart attack prevention.

Slovak daily Dennik N was the first to report the story.

It was at this time that the former director of the CI began to change his tone, claiming that he was just playing a joke with the scholar and that he hadnt known anything about the CCPs application of facial recognition to Uyghurs in Xinjiang.

Edward Lucas, a senior fellow at the Center for European Policy Analysis and a former senior editor at The Economist, expressed on April 29 that the incident suggested that Chinas CIs are part of its sharp-power offensive.

Currently, Stora has reportedly been fired by his employer, which he declined to name.

The Epoch Times has requested comment from both Luboslav Stora and Matej Simalcik but has not yet received any reply as of publishing.
An attendant walks past EU and China flags ahead of the EUChina High-level Economic Dialogue at Diaoyutai State Guesthouse in Beijing on June 25, 2018. (Jason Lee/Reuters)

EU Lawmakers Pledge to Reject China Investment Deal Over Sanctions, Rights Concerns

Members of the European Parliament (MEP) have vowed to reject the EUChina investment agreement thats awaiting ratification, because of Chinas human rights abuses and sanctions by the ruling communist regime.

More than 30 MEPs denounced China on April 28 for demanding that the EU stop criticism of the regimes human rights record, saying they wont ratify the China investment deal unless human rights are addressed first. Some have said outright that they want the deal thrown out.

The comments were made during the European Parliaments first meeting regarding the Chinese communist regimes counter-sanctions against EU representatives and entities who sanctioned several Chinese communist officials over human rights abuses against Uyghurs and other minorities in Xinjiang in late March.

The counter-sanctions imperil the likelihood of the investment deal being ratified.

If we want to show, once and for all, that the EU is not just a supermarket but rather has principles  we have to come up with some tangible action, and that means we need to reject the investment agreement, French MEP Emmanuel Maurel said.

This is a regime arbitrarily shooting a shotgun targeting our freedom of expression, our freedom of research, and our rights as members of parliament, said Hannah Neumann, vice chair of the EU Parliaments subcommittee on human rights and a German MEP.

She told Parliament that human rights need to be addressed before moving forward with the investment deal, saying, I am not willing to let a foreign country dictate to me how to do my job.

German Greens MEP Reinhard Butikofer, chair of the European Parliaments China delegation, who was targeted by Beijings sanction list, said that if sanctions that Beijing has imposed on the EU parliament arent lifted, the EU-China Comprehensive Agreement on Investment, or CAI, is in the deep freeze as far as the European Parliament is concerned.

He said the sanctions marked a new height of Chinas aggressive claim to power.

Instead, we will put pressure to use new instruments to better protect our economy against unfair Chinese practices, be it in access to procurement markets, the fight against illegal subsidies, or against products made using forced labour, he said in a statement.

Maria Arena, a MEP from Belgium, added, If pro-democracy rights in Hong Kong or Taiwan cannot be discussed in this parliament, then nothing can be discussed in this parliament.

Five leading EU MEPs whose votes are needed to ratify the EUChina investment deal were included in the sanctions.

Focus on Trade, Not Human Rights: Beijing

Meanwhile, Chinese officials have continued to push for ratification of the deal, calling the EU to focus on trade and not human rights.

Chinese leader Xi Jinping on April 16 urged the EU to ratify the investment deal in a video conference with German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron ahead of the world leaders summit on climate issues.

On April 20, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang met with business leaders from major EU countries in Chengdus ChinaEU center to seek support for the investment deal. Then on April 28, in a virtual meeting for the sixth GermanChinese government consultations, Li told German Chancellor Angela Merkel that Germany should focus on trade and not Chinas internal affairs that include human rights issues, Politico reported.

The EUChina investment deal has been championed in the EU by Merkel for its promise to open up more sectors of the Chinese economy to EU investment and benefits for European carmakers manufacturing out of China. Macron has supported Merkels efforts over the objections of several EU countries.

The agreement was signed in December after seven years of negotiations, but it must be ratified by the EU Parliament to take effect.

Merkel is stepping down in September, and her Social Democratic Party has slumped in recent election polls, with the opposition Greens party enjoying a polling lead.

The Greens recently said in a statement: Trade is a powerful lever to defend and strengthen human rights and fundamental democratic values. Unfortunately, the EU-China investment agreement, hastily concluded by the German government at the end of last year, contradicts this very goal.

Macron is also facing strong backlash against the CAI domestically, ahead of next years presidential election.

The EU on April 24 also took action to condemn the Chinese regimes aggression in the South China Sea that it said was endangering regional peace.

EU President Ursula von der Leyen said on April 21 in a progress report on China that fundamental divergences between the EU and China about economic systems and managing globalization, democracy, and human rights, or on how to deal with third countries are becoming a reality thats set to remain for the foreseeable future and must not be brushed under the carpet.
Graves Assault Complaint Leads to Two Arrests

By West Kentucky Star Staff

GRAVES COUNTY - A Mayfield man was arrested Sunday on assault and burglary charges.The Graves County Sheriff's Office said deputies responded to an assault complaint on Pritchett Road. Deputies were able to locate a vehicle that was reportedly involved in the assault. It was occupied by 45-year-old Jason Garber and 22-year-old Dynique Powell, both of Mayfield.According to deputies, Garber entered the Pritchett Road home without permission and began stealing items from the home. Police said the property owner and Garber then got into a fight, which resulted in the property owner being injured. Earlier in the day, Garber had also allegedly taken the victim's vehicle without his permission.Garber was arrested and charged with assault, burglary, theft by unlawful taking, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. Powell had an active parole violation warrant and was also arrested.
Chinese virologist Shi Zhengli is seen inside the P4 laboratory in Wuhan city, Hubei Province, on Feb. 23, 2017. (Johannes Eisele/AFP via Getty Images)

Evidence Reveals That Military Team Collaborated With Lab in City Where COVID-19 Pandemic Originated

The Chinese regime has said its controversial virology institute had no relationship with the military, but the institute worked with military leaders on a government-sponsored project for years.

The Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV) participated in a project, sponsored by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC)a regime-funded scientific research institutionfrom 2012 to 2018. The project team comprised five military and civil experts, who conducted research at WIV labs, military labs, and other civil labs leading to the discovery of animal pathogens [biological agents that causes disease] in wild animals.

The WIV is located in central Chinas Wuhan City, the COVID-19 pandemic ground zero. As an advanced virology institution, the WIV has the only P4 labthe highest biosafety level labin China and the biggest repository of bat coronaviruses in Asia. The CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus, commonly known as novel coronavirus, is 96 percent identical at the whole-genome level to a bat coronavirus, Chinese researchers wrote in a research article (pdf) published in February 2020.

In recent months, the Chinese Foreign Affairs Ministry and Shi Zhengli, the WIV virologist nicknamed Bat Lady for her research on coronaviruses of bat origin, denied there is a connection between the WIV and military, and said that no WIV researchers were infected with COVID-19.

However, according to an investigation conducted by the U.S. State Department, several researchers inside the WIV became sick in autumn 2019, before the first identified case of the outbreak, with symptoms consistent with both COVID-19 and common seasonal illnesses.

The WIV has engaged in classified research, including laboratory animal experiments, on behalf of the Chinese military since at least 2017, states a State Department fact sheet.

However, Shi denied that the WIV engaged in research with the Chinese military. I dont know of any military work at the WIV. That information is incorrect, Shi said at a public webinar on March 23. Shi didnt mention that the WIV was used by a Chinese military medical team in early 2020 for developing COVID-19 vaccines.

Shi told Science magazine in July 2020 that no pathogen leaks or personnel infections had occurred. The magazine reported that according to Shi, there is zero infection among staff or students with SARS-CoV-2 [2019 novel coronavirus] or SARS-related viruses.

In late March, overseas Chinese media reported that three WIV staff members started to have symptoms similar to COVID-19 as early as November 2019. Soon thereafter, Chinese state-run media China News reported that the news was based on rumors.

China News reported that a Chinese specialist told the WHO investigation teamwhich visited China in February to investigate the origin of the CCP virusthat cases dating back to 2019 were patients at WIV-related hospitals, rather than members of WIV staff.

Security personnel gather near the entrance to the Wuhan Institute of Virology during a visit by the World Health Organization team in Wuhan, China, on Feb. 3, 2021. (Ng Han Guan/AP Photo)

Military-Civil Cooperation

The NSFC put research results about the animal pathogens on its website on Feb. 1, 2018. It also stated that the project discovered over 1,640 types of new viruses by using the metagenomics technology, and the research was performed by a civil and military team.

Cao Wuchun, 58, a member of the projects military team, is a colonel and top epidemiologist in the Chinese military. He has been a researcher at the Academy of Military Medical Sciences since September 2017, but has worked there for the last 21 years. He served as the academys director from 2007 to 2017, according to his official resume. Cao served on the team as second in command to Major General Chen Wei, Chinas top biowarfare expert.

On Jan. 26, 2020, Cao accompanied Chen to Wuhan. In February, they took over command of the WIV. Chinese state-run media reported, at that time, that the main purpose of the military take-over was to develop a vaccine against the CCP virus.

Cao also co-led the NSFC project with Shi (the WIV virologist), and the Chen-Cao team had taken over the WIV when the COVID-19 pandemic broke out in Wuhan.

Workers are seen inside the P4 laboratory in Wuhan, China, on Feb. 23, 2017. (Johannes Eisele/AFP via Getty Images)

The other three team leaders of the NSFC project were Liang Guodong, Zhang Yongzhen, and Xu Jianguo, researchers from the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Among them, Xu was the project leader or the manager of the other four team members.

Xu, 69, is the director of the CDCs state key laboratory for communicable disease prevention and control, a scholar at the Chinese Academy of Engineering, and director of the Research Institute of Public Health at Nankai University. Xus resume states that he received $987,820 in funding from the NSFC for the project.

As one of Chinas top virus specialists, Xu went to Wuhan to serve as a team leader in early 2020. On Jan. 14, 2020, Xu told Chinas Science magazine, All 763 close contacts arent infected. The pandemic isnt severe, and it might stop next week if theres no more new infection.

In fact, Wuhan people started to crowd inside hospitals for their pneumonia symptoms from early January 2020, but the regime refused to recognize that the virus can transmit among humans until Jan. 20, 2020. The late announcements fooled people into traveling and allowed the virus to spread all around the world from Wuhan.

A team of scientists and science students from Chulalongkorn University paint the toenails of a wrinkle-lipped free-tailed bat after sampling as a way of tagging it at an on-site lab near the Khao Chong Pran Cave in Ratchaburi, Thailand, on Sept. 12, 2020. (Lauren DeCicca/Getty Images)

Bat Lady

Shi, 56, directs the Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases at WIV. In 2000, she received her Ph. D. degree in virology from the University of Montpellier II in France, after studying there for four years.

Shi started to investigate coronaviruses when China suffered from the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) outbreak in 2002 and 2003.

Beijing authorities said the SARS virus was transmitted from civets (a meat-eating animal) to humans in southern Chinas Guangdong Province in November 2002, and spread to other Chinese cities and neighboring Hong Kong because the regime didnt allow people to discuss this infectious disease in the first two months. SARS eventually killed at least 774 people, and infected 8,096 people from 31 countries.

Chinese state-run CCTV reported on Dec. 29, 2017, that Shi and her team didnt believe that civets were the natural hosts of SARS, and were only the intermediate host. They started to investigate bats from different Chinese regions in 2004.

In 2011, Shis team detected a SARS-like virus from bats living in a cave in southwestern Chinas Yunnan Province. They then named this virus WIV1 and conducted further studies. CCTV didnt report the details of the virus, but said Shis team continued to get samples from the same cave for five years.

Since 2015, Shis team has been publishing their test results in international magazines, including Virologica Sinica, Nature, and Lancet.

Weeks after the Chinese regime publicly announced the COVID-19 outbreak, Shi and her team published an article in Nature, linking COVID-19 to bats.

Shis team discovered the bat coronavirus in the bats that they had collected from an abandoned copper mine in Tongguan township, Mojiang county in Yunnan Province. The WIV researchers had visited the mine for several days even after six workers had gotten infected while working there.

On July 15, 2020, virologist Jonathan Latham and molecular biologist Allison Wilson from Ithaca, N.Y., co-published an article in Independent Science News after translating a 66-page masters thesis by Li Xu, a Chinese medical doctor who treated the miners and sent their tissue samples to the WIV for testing.

Lis thesis was submitted in May 2013. He wrote that six miners removed the bat feces from a mine in April 2012. After working there for 14 days, all workers felt sick with severe symptoms, such as high fever, dry cough, and sore limbs.

Kunming Medical University, School of Clinical Medicine, where Li studied, received and treated the miners. Finally, three of the miners died. Their samples were sent to WIV for further investigation.

Update: The headline on this article was updated on May 4, 2021.
Australian Treasurer Josh Frydenberg speaks during an address to the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry at Parliament House in Canberra, April 29, 2021. (AAP Image/Lukas Coch)

Federal Budget to Provide $1.7 Billion for Childcare

Australian families with two children in childcare can receive an increase of subsidy from July after Treasurer Josh Frydenberg announced a $1.7 billion injection into the child care system.

Aiming to encourage more women back into the workforce after having children, the new package allows parents with two or more kids aged five and underto receive an increase of childcare subsidy from 85 percent to 95 percent.

As a part of the May 11 budget, the package is forecast to save 250,000 families up to $2,260 a year. The measures are argued to boost the economy by around $1.5 billion per year and produce 300,000 more working hours per week, according to the estimate of the Treasury.

That is the equivalent to 40,000 people working an extra day a week, Frydenbergtold the press in Canberra on Sunday.

Frydenberg also said the entire May 11 budget would be aimed at creating more employment opportunities.

This will be another pandemic budget being delivered in the midst of a once-in-a-hundred year pandemic and just seven months after the last budget, he said while addressing the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Minister for Women Marise Payne welcomed the new measures as giving women more choices.

It is about supporting women into the workforce who want to work more days or more hours, she said.

Big business also believes that the new change is a crucial step to bring more women back to the workplace while boosting the economy.

This doesnt just help make a fairer society, its also an economic imperative, said Jennifer Westacott, the chief executive of the Business Council of Australia (BCA).

However, Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese said the liberal governments new package is not generous enough.

There is nothing there to regulate the costs that are at record highs under this government. This does nothing to move towards a universal, affordable childcare system, Albanese told reporters in Sydney.

Child care is about providing an essential service which boosts our economy and is essential economic reform as organisations like the Business Council of Australia have said, Albanese said.

It makes it more complex and misses the chance to do a key economic reform, Shadow treasurer Jim Chalmers told Sky News, arguing that hundreds of thousands of families will be better off under Labors promised universal child care plan.

AAP contributed to this report.
Police and protesters clash after a peaceful demonstration near the Ohio Statehouse turned into a riot, in Columbus, Ohio, on May 28, 2020. (Matthew Hatcher/Getty Images)

Federal Judge Bars Columbus Police From Using Pepper Spray, Rubber Bullets Against Nonviolent Protesters

A federal judge on Friday ruled that police in Columbus, Ohio, may not use non-lethal force against nonviolent protesters, following a lawsuit that claimed law enforcement used excessive force to disperse peaceful demonstrators last summer, including by deploying rubber bullets, wooden pellets, and pepper spray.

In an 88-page opinion obtained by The Epoch Times, Chief Judge Algenon L. Marbley of the Southern District of Ohio ruled in favor of a preliminary injunction, prohibiting Columbus police from using non-lethal measures like flash-bang grenades and batons against nonviolent protesters, while limiting enforcement of dispersal orders through citations or arrests, based on probable cause that a violation had been committed.

Defendants are restrained from using non-lethal force, including tear gas, pepper spray, flash-bang grenades, rubber bullets, wooden pellets, batons, body slams, pushing or pulling, or kettling, on nonviolent protestors to enforce dispersal orders, traffic laws, such as clearing the streets or sidewalks, and/or misdemeanors, that were not committed with actual or imminently threatened physical harm or property destruction, Marbley wrote.

Marbleys order also stipulated how Columbus police should interpret nonviolent protesters for the purpose of the injunction, namely individuals who are chanting, verbally confronting police, sitting, holding their hands up when approaching police, occupying streets or sidewalks, and/or passively resisting police orders.

The judge also barred police from the infliction of pain to punish or deter nonviolent protesters' while calling on law enforcement to limit inflicting pain on protesters when responding with necessary use of force to prevent crimes or in response to imminent threat of physical harm.

The injunction delivered a victory for the Plaintiffs in a federal lawsuit filed last year by a group of protesters against the city of Columbus, Police Chief Thomas Quinlan and at least five other officers for injuries they say they suffered while protesting.

The Plaintiffs alleged in the complaint, filed in July 2020 in U.S. District Court in Columbus, that police responded to the protests with excessive use of force, including pepper spraying, tear gassing, and assaulting with physical force and rubber bullets or wooden pellets, and flash-bang grenades against nonviolent protestors who were standing in the streets, from which vehicular traffic had already been blocked and eliminated by police, or on sidewalks, chanting, and holding signs and posing no threat of violence or property destruction, and typically without giving audible warnings to their targets.

The protesters also accused police of what they called collective punishment, responding to any person who threw a water bottle, harassed or taunted an officer, or engaged in property destruction by indiscriminately pepper-spraying or tear-gassing a group of obviously different protesters who had not engaged in any such conduct.

In the order, Marbley described the officers use of physical violence, tear gas, and pepper spray as the sad tale of officers, clothed with the awesome power of the state, run amok.

John Marshall, lead attorney for the Plaintiffs, told USA Today that the decision will have a significant impact on the ability of the Columbus police to inflict violence against lawful protesters.

The Columbus Police Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the ruling from The Epoch Times.
In this file photo, a protester is holding a 'defund the police' sign at a Black Lives Matter protest in Manhattan, New York City on July 13, 2020. (Chung I Ho/file/The Epoch Times)

Former BLM Movement Leader Arrested for Interfering in Homicide Probe: Police

A former leader of a movement in Iowa City that identifies with the ideals of Black Lives Matter has been arrested for allegedly interfering in a homicide investigation, police said.

Mazin M. Mohamedali, 20, was arrested Saturday, and faces one count of accessory after the fact, an aggravated misdemeanor, according to a criminal complaint filed in Johnson County District Court.

His arrest follows a fatal shooting during a suspected robbery at his Iowa residence in February.

Police say he failed to immediately call emergency services after the incident. He also later lied to investigators about the shootings circumstances and provided false descriptions of people involved, according to an affidavit filed by an officer.

According to court documents, the 20-year-old also deleted his mobile phones call history and the mobile phone application Snapchat, and in doing so, hid information from police that would have led them more quickly to the suspect in the shooting death, Sammy Hamed.

Mohamedali has identified himself as a former leader of the Iowa Freedom Riderswhich describes itself as a racial justice and liberation group that believes in the ideals of Black Lives Matter. Iowa Freedom Riders also says it collectively works to envision and realize a world where we treat each other with care & compassion instead of subscribing to the white supremacist, punitive system that is the prison industrial complex.

He was previously arrested on charges stemming from the initial homicide probe. After conducting a search warrant at Mohamedalis apartment on Feb. 24, police discovered 56.13 grams of marijuana and 42.5 ecstasy pills. He was arrested on two counts each of a controlled substance violation and Iowa drug tax stamp violation, and one count of keeping a drug house.

The 20-year-old is scheduled to go to trial for those charges on Aug. 24.

Mohamedali was also arrested last year during a Black Lives Matter riot, for which he faced six charges, including unlawful assembly, disorderly conduct, criminal mischief, and trespassing. He pleaded guilty to one simple misdemeanordisorderly conductand the other charges were dismissed.

He was released shortly after being booked at the Johnson County Jail, according to jail records.

A September 2020 social media post from Mohamedali shows an image of Breonna Taylor, who was shot to death during a police raid of her home in March 2020, with her death later becoming a rallying cry for Black Lives Matter protests and riots last year.

In the image, the initials BLM, which stand for Black Lives Matter, are spray painted on the ground.

#justiceforbreonnataylor thats all we need. Real indictments real respect keep the [expletive], the Instagram photos caption reads.
John Kerry, the Special Presidential Envoy for Climate, looks at his notes before the start of the virtual Leaders Summit on Climate in the East Room of the White House on April 23, 2021. (Anna Moneymaker-Pool/Getty Images)

John Kerry Undermined Trump in Unapproved Iran Talks, Former Security Adviser Says

Former Secretary of State John Kerry repeatedly undercut President Donald Trumps foreign policy toward Iran during unauthorized talks with senior Iranian officials, according to Keith Kellogg, the former chief of staff for the National Security Council under President Donald Trump.

He did it all the time, Kellogg told Just the News when asked if Kerry sent a conflicting message to Iran. By just the very fact that he went over there, and the fact that he talked to [Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad] Zarif, sent a very, very strong counter-message to what we were trying to do out there.

We read cables and we understand whats going on, Kellogg said. We talked about it in the Oval Office several times. It was not helpful what he was doing, because he was basically countering every message we were putting out there and trying to push them into some type of negotiation.

Trump reimposed tough sanctions on Iran after exiting the multilateral nuclear deal with the Islamist regime. The measures crippled the oil-rich nation in a bid to force Iran to commit to denuclearization.

I was in there many times when the president would reach out to people like Macron of France, he would reach out to Boris Johnson in UK and trying to get them to be an intermediary to talk to the Iranians to get us into some type of discussions. And we always had a pushback, Kellogg said. Because we had people like Kerry out there talking to Zarif and others.

It appears the Trump administration did nothing to hold Kerry back, causing a headache to Kellogg and others.

We knew what he was doing and the frustration we had is that it was basically acknowledged by everybody, and nobody cared about if one of us has [sic] done that, Kellogg said.

In late 2016, President-elect Trumps incoming National Security Adviser Michael Flynn came under the scrutiny of the FBI for discussing U.S. sanctions against Russia with Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislyak. The bureau contemplated charging Flynn with an archaic law prohibiting individuals from conducting unauthorized diplomacy.

Kerry, who is now President Joe Bidens special envoy for climate, recently defended telling Zarif about the number of times Israel struck Iranian targets. Kerry said the information was in the public realm. Kerrys message cited a Twitter message by a journalist who had pointed to a news report in which a senior Israeli official said that Israel had attacked Irans interests in Syria 200 times, the same number Kerry disclosed to Zarif. Its unclear if Kerrys conversation with Zarif predated the public report.

The White House didnt immediately respond to a request by The Epoch Times for comment from Kerry and the Biden administration.

Kellogg said that disclosing classified information is still illegal even if its out in the public realm.

Even if its public record, you never acknowledge classified operations. The press may get it, but you dont acknowledge it, Kellogg said.

News about Kerrys disclosure to Zarif surfaced after a report on a leaked interview of Zarif conducted in March.

In the leaked audio, Zarif, Irans top diplomat, complains that the elite Revolutionary Guards had more influence in foreign affairs and the countrys nuclear dossier than he did.

I have never been able to tell a military commander to do something in order to aid diplomacy, Zarif said.
Scale models of the Franco-German-Spanish Future Combat Air System (FCAS), Europe's next-generation fighter jet, are seen in Paris, France, on Feb. 20, 2020. (Charles Platiau/Reuters)

Germany, France, Spain Aim for Fighter Jet Agreement This Week

BERLINDisagreements over intellectual property rights mean Germany, France and Spain have yet to agree the next steps for a joint fighter jet project, the defense ministry in Berlin said on Saturday after a deadline to find a solution ran out.

The defense ministers of Germany and France had previously set an end-April deadline to broker a deal over the Future Combat Air System (FCAS), Europes largest defense project.

No agreement over the use of the intellectual property rights has been found yet, a ministry spokeswoman said. For Germany, unrestricted access to the results of the jointly financed research is of utmost importance.

The countries were aiming for an agreement this week, she added.

Costing more than 100 billion euros ($120 billion), the development of the jet brings together Germany, France and Spain.

Dassault Aviation, Airbus and Indra are involved in the scheme to start replacing Frances Rafale and German and Spanish Eurofighters from 2040.

Berlins defense ministry spokeswoman said there needed to be an adequate arrangement for the use of intellectual property rights in the jet which respected the interests of all participants in the project.

She said negotiations were continuing and it remained Germanys goal to present a proposal to the parliaments budget committee in June.

The next step of the jets development is conditional on the German parliaments approval, and time is running out to find a solution to present a proposal in time for the parliaments budget committee to vote upon it before a general election in September.

Previously, a source with knowledge of the issue had told Reuters that the German defense ministry has to refer the budget proposal to the finance ministry by May 19.
A Falun Gong practitioner (L) holds a sign next to men (R) from a mainland Chinese tour group in the Kowloon district of Hong Kong on Jan. 6, 2019. (Isaac Lawrence/AFP via Getty Images)

Hong Kong Falun Gong Practitioners Demand Apology Over Pro-Beijing Outlet Propaganda

Adherents of the persecuted faith group Falun Gong in Hong Kong are demanding an apology from a pro-Beijing newspaper over a series of articles they say incited hate and eroded the last bit of freedom in the city.

Between April 20 and April 29, the newspaper Ta Kung Pao ran at least eight articles describing the spiritual practice as an evil cult, superstition, and malignant tumor in society. One article claimed that the Tianti Bookstore, where Falun Gong books are sold, was smuggling poisonous books.

In an April 29 editorial, the outlet suggested that the Hong Kong government should outlaw the practice and called the issue a first imperative.

Such language is slanderous and incites hate toward Falun Gong as adherents in mainland China endured unjustified tribulation, the Hong Kong Falun Dafa Association responded in a May 3 statement.

The association demanded that Ta Kung Pao immediately retract the articles and issue a public apology.

The Association also reserves the right to pursue any and all available legal and equitable remedies of Ta Kung Paos false reporting and potential libel, it stated.

Falun Gong, also known as Falun Dafa, teaches the principles of truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance, as well as a set of meditative exercises, according to its website. There were around 70 million to 100 million people practicing the discipline by 1999, when the Chinese regime saw its popularity as a threat and launched a brutal eradication campaign.

For more than two decades, Falun Gong practitioners in Hong Kong and elsewhere have been calling attention to the persecution of fellow adherents in mainland China, who are constantly under threat of arrest, torture, slave labor, and even forced organ harvesting for persisting in their faith.

Yet such efforts in Hong Kong have come under growing pressure since the Beijing regime imposed a sweeping national security law, which makes anything the regime considers as secession, subversion, terrorism, and collusion with foreign forces punishable by up to life imprisonment.

In recent weeks, vandals have attacked local Falun Gong information booths with knives and spray paint, toppling seven stands during a 24-hour period. The association suspects the attacks are linked to Chinese state agents.

A Falun Gong information booth is vandalized in Mong Kok in Hong Kong on Dec. 20, 2020. (Song Bilung/The Epoch Times)

Hong Kong already has the national security law and will not tolerate anti-China and Hong Kong forces to continue running wild, the Ta Kung Pao editorial declares. It named several pro-democracy activists, among them publisher Jimmy Lai, who Hong Kong authorities have prosecuted using the new security law, before asserting that the days for Falun Gong adherents to remain at large also wont be long.

By attempting to direct the Hong Kong government to outlaw Falun Gong, Ta Kung Pao has taken a wrong position and the acts will eventually backfire, the Hong Kong Falun Dafa Association said.

Many deem Falun Gongs existence the yardstick of freedom in Hong Kong, the association said. Once Hong Kong completely loses freedom of speech and press freedom, Hong Kong will cease to be Hong Kong.

On May 3, four Falun Gong practitionersthe maximum number allowed for public groups under Hong Kongs social distancing measuresheld banners in protest of the articles in front of Ta Kung Paos main office.

Zhou Sheng, one of the protesters, said he saw two suspicious people who appeared to be Chinese state agents near his apartment on April 13. The two, a man and a woman, showed up on his apartment floor claiming to deliver pizza. When questioned by Zhou, they couldnt present a receipt or explain why they needed two people for the delivery, and they left hastily after Zhou said he would report them to the police if they came again.

An undercover Ta Kung Pao reporter approached several local Falun Gong adherents by feigning interest in the practice. Even before the vilifying reports, two of the practitioners were already experiencing harassment that had disrupted their lives, according to Zhou.

Lau Ching Kwok, a Falun Gong practitioner who was named in the articles, said the outlet changed his words to cast a negative impression on the practice.

Falun Gong has no secrets; the practitioners here care nothing about fame or money. They are only a group of people who strive to be good, he said during the protest.

Officials at Ta Kung Pao didnt respond to a request by The Epoch Times for comment.
Capitol Police officers stand at the bottom of the steps to the Rotunda at the US Capitol building on Capitol Hill in Washington on April 29, 2021. (Samuel Corum/AFP via Getty Images)

House Republicans Request Hearing With Capitol Police Board for 1st Time in 76 Years

Three House Republicans are looking to hold a series of hearings concerning the U.S. Capitol Police Board in the wake of the lapses that contributed to the Jan. 6 breach of the U.S. Capitol.

In an April 29 letter (pdf) addressed to Committee on House Administration Chairwoman Zoe Lofgren (D-Calif.), Reps. Rodney Davis (R-Ill.), Barry Loudermilk (R-Ga.), and Bryan Steil (R-Wisc.) asked that all three members of the Capitol Police Board (CPB) testify before lawmakers, the first such appearance since 1945.

The Republicans cited recent testimony by U.S. Capitol Police (USCP) Inspector General Michael Bolton, who, according to the letter, said the board is in desperate need of reform.

The events of January 6th highlighted significant problems with the CPBs structure and responsibilities. When warranted, the CPB has the serious responsibility to make the decision to declare an emergency, a determination required to authorize the USCP Chief to call in the National Guard, the congressmen wrote. However, on January 6th, the CPBs bureaucratic structure and partisan membership crippled its rapid response capabilities and decision-making abilities, and the United States Capitol Complex remained in chaos and without National Guard assistance for hours.

Further, it is clear from email correspondence uncovered by this Committee that the Architect of the Capitol, who makes up one-third of the voting membership of the CPB, was left out of key security decisions, a recurring problem for the CPB.

In testimony to lawmakers, Bolton said that the inspector generals office had identified issues with the USCP in the areas of intelligence, training, operational planning, and culture.

Lofgren didnt respond to a request for comment by press time.

The three-member Capitol Police Board consists of the sergeant at arms of the U.S. House of Representatives, the sergeant at arms and doorkeeper of the U.S. Senate, and the architect of the Capitol. The chief of the Capitol Police serves as an ex-officio member.

Then-USCP Chief Steven Sund said that the House and Senate sergeants at arms, both of whom have since resigned, rejected his requests for National Guard reinforcements because they were concerned with the optics of a formal announcement.

Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) nominated Karen Gibson, a retired lieutenant general in the United States Army, as the new Senate sergeant at arms. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi nominated William Walker, who was the head of the D.C. National Guard on Jan. 6. President Donald Trump nominated and the Senate confirmed J. Brett Blanton as the U.S. Capitol architect in 2020.
A group of illegal immigrants with Border Patrol after crossing the U.S.Mexico border in La Joya, Texas, on April 10, 2021. (Charlotte Cuthbertson/The Epoch Times)

House Republicans Seek White House Communications on Cash Payments to Central America

House Republicans are questioning a Biden administration proposal that would send cash payments to Central America as part of a strategy to deal with the causes of the illegal immigration crisis.

Reps. James Comer (R-Ky.) and Jason Smith (R-Mo.), ranking members on the House Oversight and Budget committees, respectively, have expressed concern that sending millions of dollars to countries with rampant corruption problems isnt a good idea.

In the midst of a border crisis propelled by the Biden administration reversing successful deterrent policies, it is worrisome that the administrations solution isnt to reinstate those policies or replace them with workable solutions, but instead to funnel more money to pay countries to dissuade their citizens to break U.S. laws, particularly countries with corruption concerns, their letter to Shalanda Young, the head of the Office of Management and Budget, states.

They were responding to a statement from Roberta Jacobson, the White Houses outgoing southern border coordinator, who told Reuters in April about a conditional cash transfer to Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador.

Were looking at all of the productive options to address both the economic reasons people may be migrating, as well as the protection and security reasons, Jacobson said. She also seemingly tried to preempt criticism of the move, saying the U.S. government isnt going to be handing out money or checks to people.

The U.S. Agency for International Development added in the Reuters report that its already using cash transfers in Central America following several hurricanes and is considering expanding such measures.

But Comer and Smith are now seeking documents and communications relating to cash payments or transfers to foreign governments, organizations, or individuals for the purpose of discouraging illegal immigration from residents of the Northern Triangle.

Moreover, the countries identified as potential recipients include some of the most corrupt countries in the world, with El Salvador and Guatemala ranking in the top ten, their letter says. This raises further concerns that such aid would simply be wasted on corrupt politicians and organizations serving their own interests, and not those of the interests of the American people.

Republicans in Congress have, in recent months, frequently criticized the White House over what they have described as a crisis that was triggered by President Joe Bidens executive orders rescinding a number of Trump-era policies. Biden, for his part, has defended his administrations immigration policies, describing them as more humane alternatives than his predecessors.

Comer called on Biden to reinstate some of former President Donald Trumps immigration policies.

President Biden should reinstate President Trumps cooperative asylum agreements with Northern Triangle countries, utilize the Migrant Protection Protocols, end catch and release, and maximize his authority to expel illegal immigrants during the pandemic, Comer told Fox News. Paying people to not commit a crime sends the wrong message, harms hardworking American taxpayers, and does nothing to end the border crisis.

According to the latest data available from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Border Patrol agents apprehended more than 172,000 illegal immigrants along the U.S.Mexico border in March, representing a 71 percent increase over Februarys figures.
How California Cities are Collaborating to Address Homelessness: Josh Newman and Corey Sianez

California spent $13 billion to address the homeless issue over the past three years, including a $20 million pilot program, which brings ten Southern California cities together to manage the expanding homeless population.

California State Senator Josh Newman and Buena Parks Chief of Police, Corey Sianez discuss how law enforcement and the organizations serving the homeless need to work together and the need for greater coordination amongst the cities.

California Insider is an Epoch Times show available on YouTube, Rumble, Youmaker, and The Epoch Times website. It also airs on cable on NTD America. Find out where you can watch us on TV.
Man Jailed on Imprisonment, Threatening Charges

By West Kentucky Star Staff

CALDWELL COUNTY - A Princeton man was arrested Saturday after he allegedly assaulted a woman and threatened to kill her and members of her family.The Lyon County Sheriff's Office said a woman was assaulted on Buzzard Rock Road in Kuttawa, and by the time deputies arrived the suspect, 50-year-old Patrick Sheridan, had fled the area.The woman told police Sheridan had assaulted her and held her against her will on a boat, refusing to let her leave. She also told police that Sheridan threatened to kill her and her grandchildren. Sheridan allegedly took the woman's cell phone to prevent her from summoning help.Sheridan's vehicle was stopped on Highway 62 in Caldwell County and he was arrested on a DUI charge. The Lyon County Sheriff's Office also charged Sheridan with 4th degree assault, unlawful imprisonment, terroristic threatening and interfering with communications.
Athena Bochanis of Palinkerie Fine Hungarian Imports (R) and Hungarian winemaker Tamas Kis of Somloi Vandor Winery partner to provide Hungarian wines for American audiences. (Courtesy of Taste Hungary)

Hungarian Wine Is Above the Radar Once More

Hungarian wines could have been a household word today, but two world wars and 40 years under communist rule forced a major pause on this once-formidable wine-producing country.

Wines from Hungary were considered the best in the world! a wine store owner excitedly replied when I inquired whether he carried any. He didnt that day, because Hungarian wines in the United States are hard to come by.

A look at the world map shows that Hungary in central Europe is about the size of the state of New York and shares the same viniculture-friendly latitude and Mediterranean climate with Austria, Switzerland, and France to its west. Historical records indicate that Hungarians began making wine before the Romans. Its acclaimed Tokaji Aszu dessert wine comes from Tokaj, the oldest classified wine region in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was a favorite of King Louis the 14th of France, who called it the wine of kings, king of wines.

During communist Hungary, the largest wine-producing country in the Eastern Bloc, exported huge amounts of wine to the Soviet Union, which was more interested in quantity than quality. When communism ended in 1989, land was returned to its rightful owners, including winemaking families and others keen on being a part of Hungarys winemaking renaissance. The late 1990s marked the rebirth of fine winemaking throughout the country.

The Szekszard vineyard in southern Hungary is one that is putting Hungarian winemaking back on the map. (Courtesy of Taste Hungary)

Covering three-quarters of the country, Hungarys 22 wine regions flourish in a climate conducive to growing grapes and rich in lush romantic landscapes ranging from basal-vulcanite mountains to the lowlands and plains of volcanic limestone, clay, and sandy soils. Its four most popular winemaking regions stretch across the country: Nagy Somlo in the west, Villany in the south, then Eger and Tokaj (Hungarys crown jewel) in the north.

Hundreds of grape varietiesfrom indigenous to internationalgrow throughout the country. The most popular white grapes include Furmit, Harslevelu, Irsai Oliver Juhfark, Keknyelu, and Olaszrizling. Cabernet Franc, Kekfrankos, Kadarka, and Portugieser are some of the celebrated reds.

While the COVID-19 pandemic put restraints on travel, it didnt stop me from finding Hungarian wines online, thanks to Taste Hungary, Hungarys most successful tourism operation, based in Budapest.

Founded in 2008, co-owners Carolyn and Gabor Banfalvi (shes American, hes Hungarian) shared a passion to reintroduce visitors to Hungary, its reemerging wine culture and culinary paradise. Carolyn holds a culinary school degree and is a Hungarian food book author (Food Wine Budapest).

By 2014, the Banfalvis opened a wine cellar, The Tasting Table, in Budapest and soon after, a wine shop across the street for clients and the public to sample and buy wines produced throughout the country.

In a most intuitive move before the pandemic, they decided in 2019 to offer an online wine shop in the United States for their American clients back in the States who longed to enjoy the Hungarian wines they had learned to love, not to mention Hungarian ex-pats thirsty for wines from the homeland. Its popularity helped them survive the lockdowns.

Iconic Hungarian stuffed cabbage pairs beautifully with the Hungarian wines that are re-emerging on the world market. (Courtesy of Taste Hungary)

At first glance, the online offerings were dizzying, and the labels were in Hungarian. But I closed my neophyte eyes and went for ittwo whites (from Tokaj and Somlo) and a red (from Villany). The English description of one of the whitesErszebet, Lunee, 2019 ($19.90)had me hooked: There are few places in the world where Muscat Blanc makes such exciting wine and Mexican food and light spicy food are a perfect match! At first sip, the floral character jumped out with delicious flavors of grapefruit zest, elderflower, passion fruit, and mango.

Hungary has quite a big and long history of winemaking, Carolyn Banfalvi explained to me over the phone, but it is still one of the unknown countries in the U.S. Travelers are blown away when they discover a whole new wine culture  and Americans who like discovering new wine love it here because there are so many native grapes that are only found in Hungary.

Growing more fascinated with Hungarys wine culture, I also connected with Athena Bochanis, owner of Palinkerie Fine Hungarian Imports in New York. She focuses exclusively on Hungarian wines and spirits.

I became enthusiastically entranced with Hungarys culture, food, and wine, said Bochanis, who lived a year in Hungary during law schooland learned to speak perfect Hungarian.

A few years later, in 2013, after in-depth research and combing small wineries around Hungary, Bochanis took a leap of faith and founded Palinkerie to promote exciting wines produced by Hungarys younger and less-represented generation of winemakers.

Bochanis describes the winemakers she partners withsome second-, third-, fourth- and seventh-generation winemakersas a great blend of knowing whats going on in the world and willing to invest in new methods of winemaking such as pet-nats, natural, and organic wine. But coming from a long tradition of winemaking families, they still want to work with classic styles and traditional grapes to make wines that tell you they are from Hungary even if they have a modern sensibility.

The benefit of being a small operation, says Bochanis, is that I have an opportunity to import some of the best wines.

Winemaking in Hungary is back.

When You Go

To learn more about Hungarian wines, view virtual wine-tastings and purchase wines online, visit TasteHungary.com and Palinkerie.com.

Athena Lucero is a freelance writer. To read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at Creators.com. Copyright 2021 Creators.com
Hand prints, reportedly 1,200 years old, are seen on the cave walls, in Merida, Mexico, on April 2021, in this screengrab taken from a handout video. (Sergio Grosjean/Handout via Reuters)

In Mexico, Ancient Maya Cave Reveals Mysterious Painted Hand Prints

MERIDADozens of black and red hand prints cover the walls of a cave in Mexico, believed to be associated with a coming-of-age ritual of the ancient Maya, according to an archeologist who has explored and studied the subterranean cavern.

The 137 prints, mostly made by the hands of children, are more than 1,200 years old, which would date them near the end of the ancient Mayas classical zenith, when major cities across present-day southern Mexico and Central America thrived amid major human achievements in math and art.

The cave is located near the northern tip of Mexicos Yucatan peninsula, where the towering pyramids of urban centers like Uxmal and Chichen Itza still stand, and lies some 33 feet (10 meters) below a large ceiba tree, which the Maya consider sacred.

Archeologist Sergio Grosjean argues that the hand prints were likely made by children as they entered puberty, due to a analysis of their size, with the colors providing a clue to their meaning.

They imprinted their hands on the walls in black which symbolized death, but that didnt mean they were going to be killed, but rather death from a ritual perspective, he said.

Afterwards, these children imprinted their hands in red, which was a reference to war or life, he added.

Other Mayan artifacts found in the cave include a carved face and six painted relief sculptures, which date from between 800-1,000 A.D., a time when severe drought struck the region and may have contributed to the classical Mayas sudden abandonment of major cities.

While the first Mayan settlements date back nearly 4,000 years, there were still large centers when Spanish conquerors arrived in the early 1500s.

Several million Maya continue to live in communities scattered across southeastern Mexican states like Chiapas and Campeche, in addition to Guatemala and Belize.

By Alberto Fajardo
Relatives carry the body of a person who died of COVID-19 as multiple pyres of other victims burn at a crematorium in New Delhi, India, on May 1, 2021. (Amit Sharma/AP Photo)

India Needs Love and Support More Than Judgments, Analysis

Commentary

Its been two weeks since I started reporting on the current COVID-19 surge in India. Its been heartbreaking, and I have often teared up while writing. It also has been inspiring to witness stories of compassion, courage, and the triumph of the unshakable human spirit over adversity.

I was on a reporting trip to the south of India in mid-April, a few days before the surge started. I returned to New Delhi in time for the lockdown.

There was much to write, and COVID-19 reporting wasnt on my priority list. But when I saw those drone images of pyre-crowded cremation grounds, I decided to go out. Such images visible through drone cameras might literally be in ones worst nightmares of the apocalypse. Thats probably why they shocked our media-hooked selves.

India is a big, puzzling countryit can never stop amazing you, challenging you, surprising you. The beauty of this nation is that you cant look at it, its issues, and its problems from any angle of homogeneity. Its every object and every subject has layers of meaning, and any attempt to hurriedly decipher a viewpoint can only fall short of reality.

I wasnt prepared for what I saw on the day I went out, a day after the country first broke the world record of the highest number of new cases in a single day. It kept on doing that again and again for a whole week.

I was out from morning to dusk, visiting hospitals, mortuaries, cremation grounds, and food distribution centers for the homeless and poor. In India, cremations are family and community affairs. Without regard to religion, we gather together to mourn, to offer condolences, and to support the grieving family.

Hindu cremationsthe ones photographed from a droneare also about rituals in India. The way a body is carried to the cremation ground, the way the pyre is lit, and who lights isall are pre-determined. The lockdown has physically cut us off from each other.

That has made it difficult to follow our rituals.

In this aerial picture taken on April 26, 2021, burning pyres of those who lost their lives due to COVID-19 are seen at a cremation ground in New Delhi. (Jewel Samad/Getty Images)

Though we are witnessing an exponential increase in deaths around us, we arent able to grieve as our culture requires us to do.

The day I went out, I had to overcome my cultural notions of walking through rows of burning pyres. Its shocking to realize one is being warmed by a burning body. Its startling to walk by a pyre when the cranium bursts. One begins to feel numb when seeing people everywhere walking around in dignified silence, amid a hundred pyres.

I couldnt muster the courage to click pictures in such a mourning atmosphere, and I was also politely asked not to. So I presume that could be why some photographers sent drone cameras to capture the view.

But from the outside, I could climb a wall to peep into the crematorium, and just under my nose, I saw a middle-aged man lighting the pyre of his wife. By the kind of rituals that were being performed, I could make out that she was his wife.

It felt bad to pry into someones privacyto watch their last moments together. I got carried away by the story unfolding in front of me, while holding on to a tree branch to balance myself. They still seemed to be silently communicating. The man seemed very dignified. I teared up from afar, but he seemed to be playing his part so dutifully and with much love.

Last year, during the lockdown, I was in New York, and I called up 25 crematoriums and managed to talk with five, with two in detail. It was mandatory in New York to cremate all COVID-19 bodies in electric crematoriums, and those crematorium facilities were within closed walls, unlike the open ones in India.

Those crematoriums didnt allow families to perform rituals; cremations happened by the pressing of a button. In India, I saw people performing elaborate rituals over their loved ones, and thus, the distress was more visible.

People stand on social distancing markings at a government hospital in Jammu, India, on April 19, 2021. (Channi Anand/AP Photo)

I have also come across those in quarantine seeking help for family members who died due to COVID-19 in hospitals. Those profiles are piling up in my inbox!

In February, I visited Varanasi and covered a story on the worlds most ancient crematoriums, where Indians throng from around the country to cremate their loved ones because they believe dying in the ancient city of Kashi can liberate the soul. So, in a way, when people die or are cremated in Kashi, there is some reassurance of something good happening in the afterlife.

However, what happened in Delhi in the last two weeks is beyond comprehension. Its beyond our cultural comprehension of death. We just dont know whats happening! We are culturally in a state of shock, and we dont yet recognize it because its not yet over.

Like everything of Indias puzzling self, this time has also been very invigorating, because everything is out there in the open for the rest of the world to see. Thats how it should be in a democracy, isnt it?

These days, however, Indias hopes are vested in the various emergency responders who have volunteered to link patients with beds, find oxygen cylinders, supply COVID-19 medicines, arrange consultations with doctors, provide rations, and stand by those in distress in every way possible.

They are Indias future. They triumph over the narrative of India on the pyre, over every political dividing line, and over conspiracy theories that have only attempted to create panic and amplify our challenges.

India today needs the worlds support, patience, and love more than any judgment or analysis. By understanding whats happening with India these days, the world will also understand whats happening with it.

In our integrated existence, any occurrence is a window to a greater unfolding.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Family members wearing protective gear offer prayers next to the pyre of a victim who died of COVID-19 at an open air crematorium set up for the coronavirus victims inside a defunct granite quarry on the outskirts of Bangalore, India, on May 1, 2021. (Manjunath Kiran/AFP via Getty Images)

Indias COVID-19 Daily Cases Stay Near Record, Another State Imposes Lockdown

NEW DELHIIndias new coronavirus cases dipped marginally on Sunday but deaths from COVID-19 jumped by a record 3,689, with one more state going into lockdown as the nations healthcare system is unable to cope with the massive caseload.

Authorities reported 392,488 new cases in the previous 24 hours, pushing total cases to 19.56 million. So far, the virus has killed 215,542 people. India reported a record 401,993 new coronavirus cases on Saturday.

Indian hospitals, morgues and crematoriums have been overwhelmed as the country has reported more than 300,000 daily cases for more than 10 days straight. Many families have been left on their own to scramble for medicines and oxygen. Dozens of people have died in the last week due to shortage of oxygen in hospitals in Delhi alone.

Nearly 10 Indian states and union territories have imposed some form of restrictions. The federal government remains reluctant to impose a national lockdown.

A worker wearing a PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) suit takes a momentary break as people perform the last rites of patients who died of COVID-19 during a mass cremation held at a crematorium in New Delhi, India, on May 1, 2021. (Anindito Mukherjee/Getty Images)

Relatives carry the body of a person who died of COVID-19 as multiple pyres of other COVID-19 victims burn at a crematorium in New Delhi, India, on May 1, 2021. (Amit Sharma/AP Photo)

The eastern state of Odisha became the latest to announce a two-week lockdown, joining Delhi, Maharashtra, Karnataka and West Bengal. Other states, including Uttar Pradesh, Telangana, Assam, Andhra Pradesh and Rajasthan have either imposed night curfews or weekend lockdowns.

The Indian Express newspaper reported on Sunday that the countrys COVID-19 task force has advised the federal government to impose a national lockdown.

Last month Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said all efforts should be made be avoid a lockdown.

The federal government fears another lockdown will have a devastating impact on the economy. The lockdown imposed last year after the first COVID-19 outbreak led to job losses as economic output fell a record 24 percent in April-June 2020 compared with the same period a year earlier.

People with breathing problem receive oxygen support for free outside a Gurudwara (Sikh temple), amidst the spread of COVID-19 in Ghaziabad, India, on April 30, 2021. (Adnan Abidi/Reuters)

Patients suffering from the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) receive treatment inside the emergency ward at Holy Family hospital in New Delhi, India, on April 29, 2021. (Danish Siddiqui/Reuters)

The major spike in cases has also led to a shortfall in medical staff and, according to media reports, the government is planning to incentivize medicine and nursing student for helping in COVID-19 facilities.

With Indias health system reeling and absenteeism from the workplace soaringas staff fall ill or take care of relatives international aid has begun pouring in.

On Sunday, Britains Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said it would send more ventilators for India very shortly.

Countries including United States have shipped in critical oxygen equipment, therapeutics and raw materials for vaccine production.

Airman 1st Class Fernando Beltran, secures oxygen cylinders to a pallet at Travis Air Force Base, Calif., on April 28, 2021. (Nicholas Pilch/U.S. Air Force via AP)
The Twitter and Facebook logos along with binary cyber codes are seen in this illustration taken on Nov. 26, 2019. (Dado Ruvic/Illustration/File/Reuters)

Iowa Officials Coordinated With Big Tech to Censor Election Posts: Judicial Watch

Iowa State officials worked with Big Tech last year to censor posts related to the 2020 election, government watchdog group Judicial Watch announced on May 3.

Judicial Watchs claim is based on the 624 pages of records it received from the office of the Secretary of State of Iowa as a result of a June 2020 open records lawsuit. Judicial Watch filed the lawsuit (pdf) because the Secretary of States office failed to provide records and communications relating to the states voter registration rolls as requested by Judicial Watch.

These records are yet another example of state officials conspiring with Big Tech to deny Americans their First Amendment rights, Judicial Watch President Tom Fitton said in a statement.

Judicial Watch released records on April 27 showing that the California secretary of state, the Biden campaign, and Big Tech coordinated to censor some social media posts about the 2020 election.

Tom Fitton, president of Judicial Watch, in Washington, D.C., on May 29, 2019. (Samira Bouaou/The Epoch Times)

These records further show that Big Tech censorship is a government scandal: Iowa government officials worked with Facebook to remove posts they didnt like, and Facebook bowed to this political pressure immediately. It should be disturbing to all Americans that government officials are working to censor speech they disagree with and that these behemoth companies often seem willing to roll over and censor free speech, Fitton said.

Kevin Hall, communications director for the Iowa secretary of state, emailed Facebook official Rachel Holland on Feb. 3, 2020, asking for help with a Judicial Watch post they deemed false, according to the records (pdf) released by Judicial Watch.

Holland responded within an hour that Facebook had applied a filter over the content warning users before they click to see that the content has been rated false by independent fact-checkers.

A couple of hours later, Hall contacted Holland again, saying, They [Judicial Watch] have new posts up, doubling down on the false claims.

Holland responded that Facebook had a full team with eyes on this now and are applying the false filter to similar articles as well.

Hall also filed a report with Twitter to try to censor the same post. After Twitter declined to do so, Maria Benson, director of communications at the National Association of Secretaries of State, joined the effort and urged Kevin Kane from Twitter to take it down.

Kane declined the request again, saying the post is not in violation of our election integrity policy as it does not suppress voter turnout or mislead people about when, where, or how to vote.

Benson then emailed Brian Scully, an official at the Department of Homeland Securitys Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), asking him to report the issue to Twitter.

Scully promised to contact Twitter. Sorry  been out of pocket a bit. Will reach out to Twitter. Let me know if you get something.

The post that Hall aimed to take down was a statement made by Judicial Watch that eight Iowa counties had registration rates of more than 100 percent of the voting-age population, based on data provided by Iowa to the federal Election Assistance Commission (EAC).

A voter marks his ballot at a polling place in Dennis Wilkenings shed in Richland, Iowa, on Nov. 3, 2020. (Mario Tama/Getty Images)

Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate and Judicial Watch sparred over the claim at the time.

Pate, a Republican, said in a statement that Judicial Watchs claim was deeply flawed and patently false, and the Iowa population was greatly underestimated, based on data reported by the U.S. Census Bureau.

Judicial Watch responded the next day, saying it is shameful that Pate is misleading Americans and state residents about the accuracy of Iowas registration rolls. Fitton told The Epoch Times at the time that the EAC data is the gold standard, and Judicial Watch had successfully used analyses of EAC data in several lawsuits in other states.

The Epoch Times has reached out to the Iowa secretary of states office, CISA, and the National Association of Secretaries of State for comments.
Iranian-British aid worker Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe is seen in an undated photograph handed out by her family. (Ratcliffe Family Handout via Reuters)

Iran Shouldnt Use British Nationals as Political Leverage, UKs Cleverly Says

The Iranian regime shouldnt use British dual nationals as political leverage, a British minister said on Monday.

James Cleverly, Britains Foreign Office minister for Middle East and North Africa, said that the incarceration of British-Iranian nationals such as Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe is completely unacceptable and inappropriate and should be kept separate from ongoing legal disputes between the two countries.

It comes after Iranian state TV on Sunday quoted anonymous sources as saying a deal had been reached for the United Kingdom to pay 400 million ($552 million) to see the release of British-Iranian woman Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe.

The aid worker, mother of one was given a one-year jail term on April 26 for spreading propaganda against the Iranian regime, less than two months after completing a five-year sentence for plotting to overthrow the clerical establishment, a charge she denies.

Richard Ratcliffe, husband of British-Iranian aid worker Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, and their daughter Gabriella protest outside the Iranian Embassy in London, on March 8, 2021. (Andrew Boyers/Reuters)

The charges against her and other dual citizens are illegitimate, theyre unfounded, their incarceration is completely unacceptable and inappropriate, Cleverly told Times Radio.

That is a completely separate issue to the legal dispute that is still ongoing with Iran, he added.

Iran should absolutely not be linking the two.

The legal dispute Cleverly referred to dates back to the 1970s when the then-shah of Iran paid the UK 400 million for 1,500 Chieftain tanks.

Britain refused to deliver the tanks to the new Islamic Republic when the shah was toppled in 1979, but kept the cash despite British courts accepting it should be repaid.

After Iranian TV claimed that the UK agreed to pay for the release of Zaghari-Ratcliffe on Sunday, the UKs Foreign Office said that the UK continues to explore options to resolve this 40-year-old case and we will not comment further as legal discussions are ongoing.

Cleverly told Sky News on Monday that the UK government has always said that British dual nationals should not be used as political leverage, and accused the Iranian regime of using disinformation.

We have also seen a number of occasions where the Iranian regime have used disinformation, were hearing inaccurate reports coming out over the last couple of days, he said.

On the one hand, they are saying that these proceedings are legitimate, we dont agree with that at all, but then also saying that they are linked to this legal disputeit cant be both, Cleverly added.

Were making it very, very clear. It is in the hands of the Tehran regime to release these people and they should be released.

Richard Ratcliffe, the husband of British charity worker Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, who is being held in Iran poses for a photo with a giant Mothers Day card and flowers left on the steps of the Iranian Embassy, in Knightsbridge, London. (Dominic Lipinski/PA via AP)

Zaghari-Ratcliffes MP Tulip Siddiq told Sky News that she thinks the UK should pay the money to the Iranian regime.

If you owe someone money, even you should pay it, Siddiq said, adding that Cleverly had told Parliament that theres no dispute about repaying the 400 million debt.

However, earlier on Sunday, British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab had said that whats holding up the negotiation of Zaghari-Ratcliffes release is not just over the debt.

Asked if she is being held hostage, Raab told the BBCs The Andrew Marr Show: I think its very difficult to argue against that characterisation.

It is clear that she is subjected to a cat and mouse game that the Iranians, or certainly part of the Iranian system, engage with and they try and use her for leverage on the UK.

Asked about the debt the UK owes Tehran over tanks, Raab said: Its not solely about that.

That is not actually the thing thats holding us up at the moment, its the wider context as we come up to the Iranian presidential elections and the wider elections on the JCPOA [Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action] which, inevitably from the Iranian perspective, the two are considered in tandem, Raab said.

Nazanin is held unlawfully in my view as a matter of international law, I think shes being treated in the most abusive, tortuous way, I think it amounts to torture the way shes being treated.

In the same report on Sunday, Iranian state TV also said that four Iranian prisoners are to be released and $7 billion are to be received by Iran in exchange for releasing four American spies,

U.S. State Department spokesman Ned Price immediately denied the report, saying it was not true.

Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe and her daughter Gabriella pose for a photo in London on Feb. 7, 2016. (Karl Brandt/Courtesy of Free Nazanin campaign/Handout via Reuters)

Zaghari-Ratcliffe, 42, a project manager with the Thomson Reuters Foundation, was arrested at a Tehran airport in April 2016 as she was heading back to Britain with her daughter Gabriella after a family visit.

She was later sentenced to five years in jail after being convicted of plotting to overthrow Irans clerical establishment. Her family and the foundation, a charity that operates independently of media firm Thomson Reuters and its news subsidiary Reuters, deny all charges against her and say she was only visiting relatives in Iran.

Zaghari-Ratcliffe was released in March, having carried out hunger strikes in protest over her treatment in jail as diplomatic efforts were made to secure her freedom.

But she and her family were delivered a fresh blow last week when she was given an additional one-year jail term.

She was also banned from leaving Iran for a further year.

PA, the Associated Press, and Alexander Zhang contributed to this report.
Congolese Army soldiers and UN forces inspect an ambush site where an hour previously ADF fundamentalist rebels attacked two vehicles on the road between Beni and the Ugandan border town of Kasindi, in Kilya, Rwenzori Sector, Democratic Republic of Congo, on April 9, 2021. (Brent Stirton/Getty Images)

Islamic Leader Slain in East Congo After Attacks Killing 19

BENI, CongoAn Islamic leader in Congos eastern town of Beni was killed during evening prayers by unidentified gunmen after days of violent attacks by rebels left at least 19 people dead, officials said.

Gunmen came into Benis central mosque Saturday, shooting dead Sheikh Ali Amin Uthman, the representative of the Islamic community of Beni, according to the head of the mosque, Sheikh Moustapha Matsongani.

The identity of the attackers was not yet known. Matsongani told The Associated Press that Amin had been receiving threats from the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) for more than a year, and had been questioned by security services days earlier about those threats.

We asked him to leave Beni if possible to flee the death threats, said the governor of the North Kivu province, Nzanzu Carly Kasivita. Investigations are underway.

Amin had often gone on the radio to denounce extremism.

His attack came on the heels of attacks in villages for days that left 19 dead, according to civil society groups.

The ADF originated in neighboring Uganda and has long been a threat in eastern Congo. The ISIS terrorist group has claimed some attacks carried out by ADF rebels, but the exact relationship between the groups is not clear.

A Congolese military campaign was launched against the rebels last year and fighters have since dispersed and fled into eastern Congo, where dozens of armed groups are fighting to control the mineral-rich land.

Rebels have responded to the military offensive with increased attacks, killing more than 800 people last year.

By Al-Hadji Kudra Maliro
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern speaks to media during a post cabinet press conference at Parliament on March 01, 2021 in Wellington, New Zealand. (Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images)

New Zealand, China Values Becoming Harder to Reconcile, Ardern Says

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says the interests of the Chinese regime are becoming harder to reconcile on the world stage, while noting that the differences dont define relations between the countries.

Arderns comments come just weeks after her government endured stinging criticism from UK politicians over Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahutas reluctance to see the Five Eyes arrangement expanded into other areas, including human rights dialogue.

In a speech to the China Business Summit on May 3, Ardern said her government took a principles-based approach to foreign policy and made decisions independently and in line with New Zealands interests and values.

As Minister Mahuta said last month, we need to acknowledge that there are some things on which China and New Zealand do not, cannot, and will not agree, Ardern said. This need not derail our relationship. It is simply a reality.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Nanaia Mahuta speaks to the media while standing with Associate Minister of Foreign Affairs Aupito Sio (L) and Minister for Trade and Export Growth Damien OConnor, in Wellington, New Zealand, on Dec. 1, 2020. (Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images)

We have shown this quite clearly over the past year by deliberately choosing when we make public statements on issues of concern and with whom, she added.

In the past year, for example, we chose to raise some issues with China in private. But alongside this, we also chose to make public statements with a significant number of other countries in multilateral bodies such as the Human Rights Council.

At other times, we have chosen to partner with Australia, the UK, the U.S., and other countries that share our views and values, she said. And sometimes we spoke out alone.

Ardern went on to say that New Zealand had been forthright with raising concerns over the persecution of the Uyghurs and the takeover of Hong Kong, adding that these were part and parcel of staying true to who we are as a nation.

It will not have escaped the attention of anyone here that as Chinas role in the world grows and changes, the differences between our systemsand the interests and values that shape those systemsare becoming harder to reconcile.

New Zealand will continue to support the international rules-based order and appealed to Beijing to act in ways consistent with its responsibilities as a growing power.

Chinese President Xi Jinping, right, and New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, left, shake hands before the meeting at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, on April 1, 2019. (Kenzaburo Fukuhara  Pool/Getty Images)

Ardern also acknowledged the extensive ties between the nations, including her recent address to the Boao Forum, the $30 billion two-way trade relationship, and the signing of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership.

In late April, Foreign Minister Mahuta delivered a speech to the New Zealand China Council, outlining what the countrys contemporary relationship with China looks like. In her speech, she warned of the need for exporters to diversify trade away from China while raising concerns about the Beijing regimes soft power push into the South Pacific region.

However, it was her comments on the Five Eyes that raised eyebrows from democratic allies.

We are uncomfortable with expanding the remit of the Five Eyes, she told reporters. We would much rather prefer to look for multilateral opportunities to express our interests.

Matters such as human rights should be approached in a consistent, country agnostic manner, she added. Her comments were backed by Ardern.

While the Five Eyes has traditionally been an intelligence-sharing network among Australia, Canada, NZ, the UK, and the United States, in recent years, the network has been leveraged to discuss the economy, defense, Big Tech regulation, and foreign relations.

UK Conservative MP Bob Seely criticized the comments in Parliament.

Bob Seely MP speaks in UK Parliament in London on Jan. 20, 2021. (Parliamentlive.tv/Screenshot)

A quarter of our British supply chain is dominated by China, he said. The problem is that if we go further down that route, we end up like New Zealand, in a hell of an ethical mess, with a prime minister who virtue-signals while crudely sucking up to China and backing out of the Five Eyes agreement, which is an appallingly short-sighted thing to be doing.

In response to Arderns address, Michael Shoebridge, defense director of the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, said: With these important statements of staying true to who New Zealand is as a nation. There is no mention of the fact that China is currently using trade as a weapon against New Zealands closeand travel bubblepartner Australia.

Its a striking omission showing that where the risk of a reaction from Beijing is high, New Zealands approach is to rely on quiet diplomacy,' he added. With the hope that it wont lead to Chinese leader Xi Jinping using trade with New Zealand as a weapon.
Signs welcome travelers back to New Zealand at Auckland International Airport on April 19, 2021. The trans-Tasman travel bubble between New Zealand and Australia begins on Monday, with people able to travel between the two countries without needing to quarantine. (Fiona Goodall/Getty Images)

Jail Time for Arrivals From India Part of BioSecurity Act: Chief Medical Officer

Australias top medical officer has revealed he did not advise the government to threaten Australians trying to dodge the Indian travel ban with jail.

The Morrison government has copped strident criticism from doctors, human rights groups and the Indian-Australian community over the punitive measures.

Massive fines or up to five years behind bars are in place for people who find a way around a temporary pause on travellers from India due to COVID-19.

While senior government ministers have pointed to health advice as to the basis of the decision, Chief Medical Officer Paul Kelly said the powers already existed.

There was no advice given in relation to the fines or jail terms, thats just how the Biosecurity Act works, he told ABC radio on Monday.

Our advice that we needed to do something about the number of positive cases coming into our hotel quarantine because of the risk of incursions.

Cabinet minister Alan Tudge said the pause in flights was a temporary measure that would be reviewed on May 15.

While he claimed the issue was from returning Indians, there are more than 9000 Australian citizens who want to return with 650 considered vulnerable.

We are giving those quarantine systems a breather so that they we can have surety that they will be safe and infections wont spread throughout the Australian community, Tudge told the Nine Network.

Australian Medical Association WA president Andrew Miller said similar measures were not in place for people in Europe or the UK during serious coronavirus outbreaks.

Miller said it would be viewed as a dark period in the nations history.

Its not Australian to trap people overseas, he told Nine.

To suggest that a particular segment of the community should get fined for this is absolutely unacceptable and outrageous.

He apologised to Indian Australians that he wasnt able to do more to stop the imprisonment and fine powers being used.

Yadu Singh, a Sydney cardiologist and president of the Federation of Indian Associations of NSW, said the government had a moral obligation to help its citizens.

There is a panic. There is a worry because coronavirus is a big, big problem in India and these people are stranded, he told ABC radio.

India is recording about 400,000 new coronavirus cases each day but the real number of people contracting it is believed to be higher.

Foreign Minister Marise Payne rejected suggestions blocking travellers from the Asian nation was racist.

The Australian Human Rights Commission wants the government to prove that its decision to fine or jail Australians is not discriminatory.
Ballots cast in the 2020 general election are audited at Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Phoenix, Ariz., on April 29, 2021. (Rob Schumacher/The Arizona Republic via AP/Pool)

Maricopa County Election Audit Could Last Longer Than Expected: Official

The audit of 2020 election ballots and machines in Arizonas largest county could go beyond mid-May, an official said on May 3.

State Senate President Karen Fann, a Republican, booked the Arizona Veterans Memorial Coliseum through May 14 to conduct the audit, which is reviewing more than 2 million ballots cast in Maricopa County in the presidential election, along with 385 tabulators and other machines used last year.

Former Arizona Secretary of State Ken Bennett, a Republican tapped by Fann as the audits liaison, had expressed confidence that the process would be finished by May 14. But he told The Epoch Times on May 3 that it could run longer.

Theres no deadline for the audit, Bennett said. The goal is not speed; the goal is accuracy and completeness.

The analysis of equipment used in the 2020 election was completed over the weekend. But the review of ballots and other paper materials might need to be extended a little bit, he said.

The Arizona Senate ordered the audit, and Bennett is helping to run it, working with Cyber Ninjas and three other firms the states upper chamber hired.

The coliseum, which sits in Phoenix on the Arizona State Fairgrounds, is scheduled to host some 17 high school graduations beginning May 15.

We knew when we came in the building that beginning the 15th for five days there were 17 or 18 high school graduations to be held over a five-day period, and if we have to step aside and let that happen and then come back, we have as much time as we need, Bennett told The Epoch Times.

Former Arizona Secretary of State Ken Bennett speaks at a news conference to talk about overseeing a 2020 election ballot audit ordered by the Arizona Senate at the Arizona Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Phoenix, Ariz., on April 22, 2021. (Ross D. Franklin/AP Photo)

In that scenario, materials that have yet to be audited would be kept onsite at a different place that the liaison described as totally secure. As with the audit itself, the site can be tracked online via 24-hour streaming.

Fann didnt respond to a request by The Epoch Times for comment.

About 20 tables at the coliseum were being used on May 1, with counters working in two 5-hour shifts. Bennett said he hoped to have 46 tables filled this week with workers manning three shifts. Workers took a break on Sunday, May 2. On Monday morning, approximately 25 tables were staffed.

Somewhere between 150,000 and 175,000 ballots have been counted, as of the latest tally. According to the Arizona secretary of states office, 2.089 million ballots were cast in Maricopa County in the 2020 election, 61 percent of the total ballots cast in the state.

The state Senate ordered the audit to ensure the integrity of the vote. The audit started on April 23. A judge last week rejected Arizona Democrats attempt to block the audit over concerns about security.
Suspects Sought Over Ballard Phony Bills

By West Kentucky Star Staff

BALLARD COUNTY - The Ballard County Sheriff's Office is asking for the public's help with a forgery investigation.Between April 28 and April 30, two people allegedly used counterfeit $50 bills to purchase gift cards at Dollar General stores in Wickliffe, Barlow, LaCenter, and Kevil.The first suspect is described as a white woman, approximately 5 feet 3 inches tall, with shoulder-length brown hair and pink highlights. She was last seen in a light-colored t-shirt, shorts, and a black backpack.The other suspect is described as a black man, approximately 6 feet tall, with long dreadlocks. He was last seen wearing a red Reebok sweatshirt and jean shorts.The suspects were driving a dark-colored sedan.Anyone with information on the suspects should contact the Ballard County Sheriff's Office at 270-335-3561.
Military Dog Retired After Injury Gets Adopted by Former Marine Partner to Live Out Her Days in Bliss

U.S. Marine Corps sergeant Angela Cardone and her military dog Bogi became inseparable after they trained together for two years and embarked on a 15-month partnership.

But when Cardone was reassigned from Japan to Hawaii, she didnt have the chance to say goodbye.

After two years of wondering, waiting, and massive amounts of paperwork, Cardone was reunited with her former K-9 partner.

Bogi, now 5 years old, had been retired from service, which allowed the former handler to adopt the dog to live out the rest of her days in bliss.

It feels wonderful, like a huge weight has been lifted off my chest, Cardone, 22, told People. Shed been dreaming of a possible reunion since the day they parted ways.

The pair were first introduced at the Marine Corps Air Station in Iwakuni, Japan, in 2017. Cardone trained the dog to master narcotics detection, safety sweeps, and vehicle searches before the pairing was made official.

Initially, Cardone hadnt been all that enthused to work with Bogi. She didnt really know that many commands, she didnt even know her name, Cardone explained, according to Daily Mail.

But after a month of working with her I realized that we had the exact same personality: super clumsy, goofy, and we worked really, really well together.

Bogi was dependable, and boosted Cardones confidence as a dog handler. I looked at her as my daughter, she said.

After redeployment to Hawaii, the sergeant worried shed never see Bogi again.

Months passed. Then in June 2020, Bogi had a severe neck injury which made her eligible for medical retirement. And Cardone immediately reached out to offer her K-9 ex-partner a forever home.

She contacted American Humanes military program for help transporting Bogi overseas. The nonprofit came through, guiding Cardone through the adoption process, handling the paperwork, funding Bogis transpacific journey from Japan to Hawaii, and providing future veterinary care.

Representatives from American Humane said they felt honored and thrilled to reunite the sergeant with her best friend, while giving Bogi the blissful retirement she deserves.

Sgt. Cardone and Bogi made so many sacrifices in service to our country, American Humane president Dr. Robin Ganzert said in a statement. Bringing them back together is the least we can do in return.

On Feb. 16, a tail-wagging Bogi and Cardone were reunited at the Queen Kapiolani Hotel in Honolulu. After showering the retired pup with hugs, toys, and flower garlands, Cardone and her pooch posed for pictures on the beach, before heading home to Kaneohe.

The first few moments of seeing Bogi  it was indescribable, Cardone said. I never thought that this day would actually come, so its just a really heartwarming type of feeling.

Cardone is looking forward to introducing Bogi to Hawaiis beaches and hiking trails, and also giving plenty of treats, couch time, and Starbucks puppuccinos.

Ive been looking forward to this, she told the Honolulu Star Advertiser. Shes the sweetest dog youll ever meet.

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More House Christians Detained in Southwest China

In Guiyang, the capital of southwestern Chinas Guizhou province, there have been new reports of crackdowns on underground churches by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) after pastor Zhang Chunlei was placed under criminal detention in March.

In mid-March, Yang Kaichun and Hou Zeyanhouse church members and residents of Anshun city, which is 90 kilometers from Guiyangwere each given 15-days illegal administrative detention, while Huang Chen and Cai Sumei had their homes searched by the authorities, who confiscated some of their possessions.

Other house church membersChen Jianguo, Li Lin, and Li Jinzhi from Guiyangwere subjected to three-days detention as well as repeated summons and harassment by local police.

Yang Aiqing, wife to imprisoned pastor Zhang Chunlei, was also illegally subpoenaed and held in handcuffs and shackles for 24 hours before being released.

Handcuffs and shackles can only be applied to dangerous criminals, Chinese rights lawyer Sui Muqing recently told the Chinese-language Epoch Times.

Several lawyers, including Sui, Zhu Shujin, Huang Deqi, Zhao Qingshan, have gone to Guiyang and Anshun cities to sue local police for abuse of power on behalf of affected house church members.

On April 27, Sui, on behalf of Christian Chen Jianguo, filed an administrative lawsuit against the authorities responsible for ethnic and religious affairs and public security in the Yunyan district, Guiyang city, in the court of Guiyangs Nanming district. However, Chens case has been dismissed by the court.

In fact, the CCP regime has intensified efforts in persecuting underground Christians since Chinese leader Xi Jinping became leader in 2012. The CCP took down more than 900 crosses from state-run churches in the first half of 2020 in Anhui province alone, according to Bitter Winter, a magazine on religious liberty and human rights in China.

(Courtesy of Bitter Winter)

On Jan. 19, Niu Guobao, a Christian and resident of Lushan county in central Chinas Henan province, was fined 160,000 yuan (about $24,712) by the local CCPs religion authority for holding a Christmas party on Dec. 19, 2020, according to a Chinese-language rights site known as Wei Quan Wang. All religious books and calendars were confiscated from the more than 60 participants attending the party, including 20 children. They reported feeling intimidated by the intruding officials, who had earlier warned them against such a celebration.

Read More Chinese Regime Burns Religious Books, Jails Believers in War Against Faith

On Feb. 20, 2019, Li Juncai, Christian house church pastor and resident of Yuanyang county, Henan province, was detained on an alleged charge of obstruction of performance of official duties after he refused to follow the orders of local authorities to remove the cross at top of his church and replace his religious banners with CCP-approved ones.

Days later, the cross was forcibly demolished and the banners removed. Instead, a five-star red flag was set up within the church to meet the requirements of the CCP, which has been enforcing its order nationwide over the last few years.

After 22 months of detention, the pastor was sentenced to five and half years in prison on charges like so-called embezzlement and obstruction of performance of officials duties.
Undated mugshot of Douglas Alexander Herrera-Hernandez, a.k.a Terror, who has been sentenced to life in prison for the 2016 murder of a Houston teen. (HCSO)

MS-13 Gang Member Nicknamed Terror Gets Life In Jail for Killing Texas Teen

An MS-13 gang member nicknamed Terror has been sentenced to life behind bars for his role in the shooting death of a Houston-area teenager.

Douglas Alexander Herrera-Hernandez was sentenced to life in prison without parole after being found guilty of capital murder in the 2016 slaying of 16-year-old Estuar Quinonez, the Office of the District Attorney, Harris County, Texas, said in a release.

The victim had witnessed several gang-related murders and his killers wanted to silence him forever, prosecutors said.

We are trying to break the back of this organization by sending their assassins to prison for as long as possible and we will remain unrelenting in our pursuit of these criminals who band together to terrorize communities, Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg said in the release.

Prosecutors said Herrera-Hernandez admitted to contacting MS-13 gang leaders in El Salvador to sign off on Quinonezs murder.

Herrera-Hernandez and several other gang members lured Quinonez to a park in Missouri City in June 2016.

As the 16-year-old sat on a park bench, Herrera-Hernandez and the other hidden gang members emerged and started shooting at him, hitting him in the head, prosecutors said.

They added that all of the gang members present fired on Quinonez, who was hit at least 15 times.

Meanwhile, the rising number of unaccompanied children crossing the U.S.-Mexico border is sparking fears about a resurge of MS-13, after the first major wave of unaccompanied minors in 2014 was followed by an uptick in MS-13 gang violence in the areas where most of the minors were placed.

Attorney General Ken Paxton told The Epoch Times that hes absolutely concerned about the nexus with MS-13.

Weve already shown from the past that some of these unaccompanied minors end up in MS-13, Paxton said, adding that Houston is a hub for the transnational gang.

If we have a problem there, we definitely have a problem in the schools as well. Unfortunately, it is creating a problem for just regular kids having to be around these gang members, Paxton said, adding that MS-13 is known for crimes including murders, extortion, racketeering, assaults, robberies, drug trafficking, and human trafficking. The gangs motto is kill, rape, control.

A Justice Department report released in October 2020 detailed law enforcement efforts to disrupt, dismantle, and destroy MS-13, while noting a number of criminal statutes charged in MS-13 cases in the past four years, including racketeering, murder in aid of racketeering, narco-terrorism conspiracy, human trafficking, illegal alien in possession of a firearm, and illegal reentry following deportation.

The report also showed that nearly three-quarters of accused MS-13 gang members prosecuted by the DOJ in the four years prior to the reports release were present in the United States illegally.

Charlotte Cuthbertson contributed to this report.
Officer Who Shot Ashli Babbitt on Jan. 6 Didnt Issue Warning First: Lawyer

The lawyer for the family of Ashli Babbitt, the woman who was killed by a Capitol Police officer during the Jan. 6 Capitol breach, said that witnesses didnt hear the officer give a warning before he shot her.

The officer, who hasnt been identified, was cleared by federal prosecutors of any wrongdoing in the shooting, saying that it was reasonable that the officer fired in self-defense. The officers attorney Mark Schamel has told news outlets his client did, in fact, warn Babbitt and others who were behind the door attempting to get into the Chamber of the House of Representatives.

Its a false narrative that he issued no verbal commands or warnings, Schamel told news outlets last month, adding that witness statements corroborate his account. He was screaming, Stay back! Stay back! Dont come in here!

However, Babbitt family lawyer Terrell Roberts appeared to dispute that account.

Weve interviewed several witnesses on the same side of the door with Ashli Babbitt, Roberts told journalist Sharyl Attkisson on May 2. They didnt hear any kind of warning. I think a reasonable officer would know, given the noise on the other side of the door, that anything that hes saying would not be heard.

According to video footage of the incident, the officer appears to issue no commands to stop or any verbal warning that he would fire.

In fact, if you watch the video carefully, Roberts said, theres an officer in a suit that strolls across the hallway at the time that he is supposedly yelling an announcement, who doesnt even seem to react to that. So those are three important factors why we think he didnt give an announcement.

Video footage recorded by Capitol breach participants shows the officer taking a defensive position in a doorway before aiming his weapon and shooting Babbitt, who appeared to be trying to climb through a broken window in the door. Officials later said that Babbitt, a U.S. Air Force veteran, reportedly had no weapon.

Roberts noted that Babbitt was part of a crowd that was starting to hit the door, break some of the windows. The footage, he said, then shows three officers move out of the way of the rioters.

At the time that this officer shoots, theres no member of Congress in that lobby, the lawyer noted on May 2. So I think all this adds up to a situation where the officer did not need to shoot and kill the lady.

In previous media interviews and in a statement to The Epoch Times, Roberts said he plans to file a lawsuit against the U.S. Capitol Police, arguing that the officer violated the constitutional rights of Babbitt. Last week, he said the family will seek $10 million from the agency.

The Epoch Times has contacted the U.S. Capitol Police and Schamel for comment.
Migrants rest aboard of the Ocean Viking during its navigation in the Mediterranean Sea, on April 30, 2021. (Flavio Gasperini/SOS Mediterranee via AP)

Over 800 Migrants Rescued at Sea Head to Italy

ROMETwo Italian ports faced an influx of hundreds of migrants on Saturday, as a charity ship sailed toward a Sicilian port with 236 people rescued in the Mediterranean from traffickers boats, while Italian coast guard and border police brought 532 others to a tiny island.

The maritime rescue group SOS Mediterranee said a ship it operates, Ocean Viking, pulled the migrants to safety four days ago from two rubber dinghies. Upon instructions from Italian authorities, the Ocean Viking was sailing to Augusta, Sicily, with its passengers, who it said included 119 unaccompanied minors.

SOS Mediterranee said some passengers told rescuers they were beaten by smugglers based in Libya and forced to embark on the unseaworthy dinghies despite high waves.

On Italys southern island of Lampedusa, which is closer to North Africa than to the Italian mainland, Mayor Salvatore Martello said migrants from four boats that needed rescue stepped ashore overnight. They were brought to safety by Italian coast guard and customs police boats.

Separately, an Italian navy vessel rescued 49 migrants, Italian state TV reported.

Still in the central Mediterranean Sea on Saturday was another charity boat, Sea-Watch 4, which with 308 people aboard who had been rescued in four separate operations from trafficker-launched vessels, Sea-Watch said in a statement. The first rescue, of 44 people, took place on Thursday, it said.

Sea-Watch 4 has requested a port to disembark the migrants from both Italy and Malta.

The fact that we, as a civil rescue ship, saved so many people from distress at sea in such a short time again demonstrates the fundamental rescue gap European states have created at the worlds most dangerous maritime border, said Hannah Wallace Bowman, the head of mission for Sea-Watch 4.

Warmer weather in the spring often increases the number of vessels launched toward Europe by Libya-based migrant traffickers.

Last month, SOS Mediterranean personnel and a merchant ship spotted several bodies from a shipwrecked dinghy, believed to have been carrying 130 migrants. People on the boat had appealed for help in the waters off Libya, but no coast guard vessels from Libya, Italy or Malta came to their aid, the group said. No survivors were found.

Humanitarian groups have been urging European Union nations to resume the deployment of military vessels on rescue patrols in the Mediterranean. After hundreds of thousands of rescued migrants, many of them ineligible for asylum, were brought to Italy by ships from the coast guard, navy, border police and other nations, large-scale rescue operations in the sea north of Libya were ended.

Italy has been equipping and training the Libyan coast guard to rescue migrants in their search-and-rescue area and to discourage traffickers.

Human rights groups and U.N. agencies have denounced inhumane treatment at Libyan detention centers, where migrants rescued or intercepted by the Libyan coast guard are taken. They say migrants endure beatings, rapes and insufficient rations.

On Friday, the United Nations child welfare agency said a total of 125 Europe-bound children were among those intercepted at sea earlier in the week by Libyan authorities off the Mediterranean coast. UNICEF said most of those rescued were sent to overcrowded detention centers with no or limited access to water.

The risk migrants run of perishing at sea is high. UNICEF says at least 350 people, including children and women, have drowned or gone missing in the Mediterranean since January.

According to the Italian Interior Ministry, as of Friday, 9,000 migrants had reached Italy by sea this year.

Both Italian and Maltese governments in recent years have claimed that private charity boats effectively facilitate trafficking by rescuing migrants at sea. At times, rescue vessels, including commercials ones, have been kept waiting for long stretches before a safe port was assigned.

By Frances Demilio
Black Lives MatterLos Angeles supporters protest outside the Unified School District headquarters in Los Angeles, calling on the board of education to defund school police on June 23, 2020. (Mario Tama/Getty Images)

Professor Who Rejected Students View That Cops Are Heroes Takes Leave of Absence

A California professor who confronted a student about his view that police officers are heroes has taken a leave of absence.

The adjunct professor was recorded arguing with Braden Ellis, a 19-year-old student, at Cypress College in California. The recording and transcript of the Zoom class were first published by The Daily Wire.

Cypress College takes great pride in fostering a learning environment for students where ideas and opinions are exchanged as a vital piece of the educational journey. Our community fully embraces this culture; students often defend one anothers rights to express themselves freely, even when opinions differ. Any efforts to suppress free and respectful expression on our campus will not be tolerated, Marc Posner, the schools director of communications, said in a statement.

The adjunct professor will be taking a leave of absence for the duration of her assignment at Cypress College. This was her first course at Cypress, and she had previously indicated her intention to not return in the fall.

We are reviewing the full recording of the exchange between the adjunct professor and the student and will address it fully in the coming days.

After Ellis gave a presentation on cancel culture to the class, the unidentified professor used the question-and-answer session to confront him about his views about police. Ellis alleged that the police departments in the United States stem from people in the South wanting to capture runaway slaves.

When another classmate interjected that police officers shouldnt be heroes who appear in kids shows, Ellis said he disagreed.

I think cops are heroes and they have to have a difficult job. But we have to Ellis said before the professor interrupted, asking, All of them?

Id say a good majority of them. You have bad people in every business and every Ellis responded before the professor interrupted again.

A lot of police officers have committed atrocious crimes and have gotten away with it and have never been convicted of any of it, the professor said. And I say [it] as a person that has family members who are police officers.

One of the largest surveys on freedom of speech on college campuses released in 2020 found that 60 percent of students can recall at least one time during their college experience when they did not share their perspective for fear of how others would respond. A sizable minority, 42 percent, believe their college wouldnt defend them in case of a controversy over a view they expressed.
Protecting the Grid From Blackoutsand Communism

Commentary

Youd think the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) would know better than to mess with Texas. But a planned wind turbine facility in West Texas owned by a Chinese entity with links to the CCP exposes just how vulnerable our electric grid is to national and cybersecurity threats.

Legislation filed in Texas to ban power plants owned by hostile nations offers a model other states should follow to protect our electric grids not just from blackouts, but from a sea of red.

Lets start with the facts. The Xinjiang Guanghui Industry Investment Group, a conglomerate run by a member of the CCP, purchased 140,000 acres of land in the Devils River area of Val Verde County, Texas, along the Mexican border. The companys U.S.-based subsidiary plans to install more than 40 wind turbines there, a move that even pro-renewable groups such as the Sierra Club oppose.

The really uncomfortable part? The Chinese regime has nearly unfettered access to company information. Chinese companies operate under draconian national security laws that require them to hand over everything from customer data to encryption keys. One analyst described it this way, The information that Chinese agents once had to steal through cyberattacks are now automatically provided for the privilege of doing business there.

The U.S. military has already discovered the chilling consequences of intentional vulnerabilities created in Lenovo servers to comply with Chinese lawvulnerabilities that nearly let Navy destroyer fleets and ballistic missiles fall into enemy hackers hands. The Devils River wind farm, incidentally, is also a stones throw from Laughlin Air Force Base in Del Rio.

Its difficult to overstate the threat of a foreign nation infiltrating our grid. Given access to the grid, hackers could not only spoof the grid and trick operators into thinking more power is available than there actually is, they would also be privy to sensitive intelligence on grid protocols, including threat response. It would be all too easy for a bad actor to not just bring down the grid, but also to collude with other nations to strike once our vulnerabilities have been exposed.

The chaos that Texans experienced just weeks ago when blackouts left 4 million people in the cold and dark with many roads undrivableforcing them to spend all their time and mental energy on the bare necessities such as food, water, and warmthwould pale in comparison to a coordinated attack.

While most emergency facilities have backup generators, even these arent foolproof and only work for short periods of time, as long as diesel or propane is available to fuel them. A coordinated attack, with blackouts lasting for more than a few days, could bring down our law enforcement operations, military bases, hospitals, banks, and morenot to mention the servers and data centers they depend on.

Without electricity, were shockingly vulnerable. Thats why other states should follow Texass footsteps and protect the grid not just from blackouts, but from enemy intrusion.

The Lone Star Infrastructure Protection Act seeks to prohibit companies from China, Iran, North Korea, Russia, or any other countries the governor designates as a significant threat from connecting to Texass electric grid, water treatment facilities, communications systems, critical cyberinfrastructure, or chemical facilities. This bill, which is currently being considered in committee, will prevent rogue nations from accessing confidential grid operation information and add a layer of much-needed protection to our electric grid.

In the privileged West, weve gotten complacent. Weve forgotten just how profoundly electricity (and the technology it powers) improves our lives. From the basics such as clean running water to warmth and productivity, electricity is the dividing line between poverty and flourishingand essential to our physical and national security. It should be common sense that we protect it from attack.

The Honorable Jason Isaac is director of Life:Powered, a national initiative of the Texas Public Policy Foundation to raise Americas energy IQ. He previously served four terms in the Texas House of Representatives.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Recent Violence Against Asian Americans Highlights Fatal Difference Between the CCP and Chinese People

Commentary

The recent spate of violence against Asian Americans, accentuated by the shootings in Atlanta, which cost eight lives, including six Asian women, among them four of Korean descent, stunned the entire country. It is sending each of us in the Asian American community to search for our true identity and our future in this land we call home. The atmosphere is palpably nervous; a friend living in Atlanta called to inform me that he was planning to move to Thailand for a few years.

A glaring absence of an uptick in discrimination cases against Indian-Americansa major constituent of the Asian-American fabricsuggests the target is not so much Asian-Americans but Asian-Americans with Chinese faces. Predictably, the rushed conclusion and simplistic generalization that Asian Americans, not Chinese Americans, are the target of the assaults, have brought backlash from certain segments of the Asian community who felt they have been wrongly blamed. Sery Kim, a Korean-American and GOP House candidate in Texas, made a public remark following the Atlanta shootings about Chinese immigrants: I dont want them here at all they steal our intellectual property, they give us coronavirus, they dont hold themselves accountable.

Indeed, the trigger for the sudden spike over the past year of an over 1,000% increase in assaults against Asians bearing Chinese facial features was not the long-running discrimination against Asian-Americans, a claim by the progressives as a new grievance of the woke movement. It was instead from the ethnic association of the Chinese Americans with the presumed originator and spreader of the CCP virus (novel coronavirus): the Chinese regime, or the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). A reluctance or failure to identify the culprit of the Covid pandemic as the CCP has unwittingly and unnecessarily sowed seeds of confusion in the national discourse on the issue, and in the same process, deprived Chinese Americansand in this regard, all Asian Americans with faces assumed to be Chineseof the most effective shields against the simmering undercurrents of negative sentiments against them.

In a recent Wall Street Journal opinion piece, former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and his principal China advisor Miles Yu opined that [the] Chinese Communist Party is obsessed with viruses More troubling is the partys negligence on biosafety as evidenced by a novel coronavirus that escaped Wuhan.

The State Department in mid-January 2021 issued a statement that the U.S. intelligence community had uncovered hard evidence that some staff members at the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV) lab were stricken with sickness symptoms similar to those of Covid infections as early as Fall 2019, and the Wuhan lab had been working with the Chinese military on research projects. In retrospect, more than four years ago, potent warnings had been sent to Washington in cables by U.S. diplomats who had been shocked by the loose safety standards at WIV with respect to its top-level designation (BSL-4), and the claims by WIV scientists that they had found new bat coronaviruses that could easily infect human cells.

History tells us that American people understand the differences between an evil regimebe it Nazi, militarist, or communistand innocent, powerless people who have been terrorized. They can also easily tell their enemies from their true friends and even heroes despite their different skin colors, as evidenced by the outpouring of adulation for the Tank Man of Tiananmen Square.

Without any doubt, the dramatic rise in discrimination cases against Chinese immigrantscaptured by smartphone videos of defenseless elders in Chinatowns being pushed to the ground in broad daylightis symptomatic of an increase in deplorable acts of cowardice and bigotry targeting a vulnerable and innocent segment of our population. On the other hand, they should also be a wake-up call for the Chinese community that it is high time that it should draw the line against the CCP. Or, it has to face consequences of alienation from the U.S. public for its links with the Chinese regime.

In the past several decades, the CCP has expended considerable resources into converting Chinese communities into a bastion of influence and beachhead of cooperation. According to a 2018 report of the Hudson Institute, The Chinese Communist Partys Foreign Interference Operations: How the U.S. and other Democracies Should Respond, the tentacles of the CCP have reached into every nook and cranny of our social lives, including politics, education, media, Hollywood, thinktanks, and grassroot activities within the Chinese diaspora.

For instance, during 20122018, the report says, the CCP paid $12,936,243 for contracts with American universities and colleges. The CCP has sent their agents, masquerading as community leaders, to manipulate the Chinese communities for its own political benefit, including harassing adherents of the Falun Gong spiritual movement. It would definitely help diffuse the current wave of violence if the Chinese community could take the position to openly condemn the CCPs role in the pandemic and sever its ties to the CCP.

Chinese immigrants of my generation would remember there was a time when Americans enthusiastically supported the pro-democracy students and activists from China. Sadly, a line that used to distinctly separate the Chinese people and the CCP, a blood-stained regime that killed hundreds of students in the spring of 1989, has become blurry; memories of the millions of Chinese clamoring for freedom and elimination of the CCP have faded out, replaced by the image of a nation obsessed with economic prosperity.

In the past two decades, the CCPs infiltration and inroads into every facet of American social life have made it almost politically incorrect to blame it for any wrongdoing, barring extreme human rights abuses. But all indications suggest the CCP has never changed, and China under its ruling is always on a collision course with the United States. Until our collective memory is resurrected over this historyand until everyone knows the Covid is just another name for the CCP virusthe Chinese community will live in fear; antagonism against Chinese immigrants will only persist

Eric Chen was born and brought up in China during the Cultural Revolution. A participant in Chinas pro-democracy movement in 1989, he currently lives in Northern California and regularly offers his views on Sino-U.S. relationship based on his long-term experience in both countries.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
The Department of Education building building is seen in Washington, DC, on July 22, 2019. (Alastair Pike/AFP via Getty Images)

Republican Lawmakers Question Biden Admin on Alleged $500 Billion Hole in Student Loan Program

The ranking Republican members of the House Education and Labor Committee are asking the Education Department to release a report that allegedly shows a $500 billion gap between what the federal government valued student loans at and their actual worth.

In an April 30 letter (pdf) to Education Secretary Miguel Cardona, Reps. Virginia Foxx (R-N.C.) and Mike Bost (R-Ill.) expressed concerns that the policy makers assumptions about federal student loans might by based on gimmicks or falsehoods, citing a recent news story from The Wall Street Journal.

The story features the findings of former JPMorgan executive Jeff Courtney, who was commissioned by former Education Secretary Betsy DeVos to conduct an analysis about student loans held by the federal government. His report alleged that the government has spent three decades making the student loan program look more profitable despite an increase in defaults, potentially leaving taxpayers on the hook for hundreds of billions of dollars in incurred costs.

According to Courtney, the federal budget assumes the government will recover 96 cents for every dollar that borrowers default on, and Education Department budget officials told him that the government puts defaulted borrowers into new loans. This pays off old loans and is considered a recovery, even though in many cases borrowers are going to default on those new loans as well.

Courtney concluded that in reality, the government is more likely to recover just 51 to 63 cents for every dollar in defaulted student loan debt, which translates into a gap of at least $500 billion, or about one-third of the $1.6 trillion federal student loan portfolio.

The public policy implications of such a discrepancy are enormous, the lawmakers wrote, calling on the Education Department to immediately release the Courtney report to the public.

Taxpayers deserve to know if their investment has a junk rating, the letter reads. Students ability to pursue a college degree is threatened if the federal government is no longer able to offer them loans. Taxpayers are not an unlimited piggybank. The federal government should not be making money off its lending program to students, nor should it add to unborn generations tax burdens.

The Biden administration, according to the Wall Street Journal, has dismissed Courtneys calculation as politically motivated and that it was based on incomplete, inaccurate data.

One of the many reasons we have a model of record is to ensure valuation of the student loan portfolio is not subject to political interference, a spokeswoman for Education Department told the newspaper, adding that the agency has refined the calculation model over time to more accurately predict how much borrowers earn and ensure they are able to repay their loans.

The Education Department didnt respond to a request for comment on the letter.
Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani speaks during a briefing at the White House in Washington, on Sept. 27, 2020.(Brendan Smialowski/AFP via Getty Images)

Giuliani Says FBI Is Trying to Frame Him After Apartment Search

Days after federal investigators searched his apartment and confiscated several devices, former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani claimed that the FBI is trying to frame him.

At about 6 a.m., there was a banging on my doora very loud banging, and outside there was a group of an endless number of FBI agents, Giuliani told Fox News on Monday. Usually a person who has been a former assistant U.S. attorney, a U.S. attorney, a mayor, the associate attorney general, usually they receive a subpoenanot have their home raided, he added.

Federal prosecutors executed a search warrant at the former mayors Manhattan apartment reportedly as part of an investigation into whether he violated Foreign Agents Registration Act related to his work in Ukraine.

The FBI agents showed me a warrant that sought the electronics in my apartment and purported to be about an alleged violation of the Foreign Agents Registration Act, FARA, for failure to file as a foreign agent on behalf of an unnamed Ukrainian official, Giuliani added, saying he never did this and claimed he was offering to discuss the allegations with the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Southern District of New York.

My contracts have clauses that I will not act as a foreign agent, and I wanted to show these things to the government so that they would stop their consistent illegal leaking of an investigation, Giuliani added.

Going further, Giuliani said federal agents are motivated by an animus against former President Donald Trump, a former client of Giulianis. Trump and Giuliani appear to have parted ways after Giuliani mounted a campaign for the former president to challenge the results of the Nov. 3 election.

They are trying to frame me, Giuliani said. They are trying to find something they can make into a crime, some technical violation, some mistake I made.

Giuliani has not been charged with a crime.

Former alleged Giuliani associates Lev Parnas and Igor Fruman have already been charged with various crimes including campaign finance violations. Giuliani previously has distanced himself from the two men, accusing one of them of lying about their relationship and dealings.

The Epoch Times has contacted the Department of Justice for comment. Previously, the Justice Department declined to comment on the search.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 00:52:59|Editor: huaxia

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KATHMANDU, May 2 (Xinhua) -- The Nepali government Sunday decided to suspend domestic flights fully and international flights with India, South Africa and Brazil after the country reported record high COVID-19 cases on the same day, two Nepali cabinet ministers said.

"The cabinet decided to suspend all domestic flights starting from Monday midnight," Gauri Shankar Chaudhary, minister for labour, employment and social security, told Xinhua on Sunday evening. "International flights with India, South African and Brazil will be suspended from mid-night of May 5."

The Nepali government's decision came after the country's health ministry on Sunday confirmed infections for 7,211 people, a new daily record in infections since the pandemic hit the Himalayan country early last year.

"Due to current COVID-19 crisis in India, we decided to suspend flights with India for certain period," Padma Kumari Aryal, minister for agriculture and livestock development, told Xinhua on Sunday. "But, flights with South Africa and Brazil will be closed for the foreseeable future." Nepal does not have direct flights with South Africa and Brazil. So, there won't be connected flights, according to Aryal.

Aryal said flights with the countries other than aforementioned three countries would continue on condition that necessary health protocols are followed.

Nepal witnessed less than 100 cases for most of the days in March but saw continuous rise of cases since April with over 7,000 cases reported on Sunday for the first time.

The Nepali government has also imposed lockdown in Kathmandu Valley starting from April 29 and prohibitory orders have been issued in different parts of the country.

In order to address the human resource crisis, the Nepal's health ministry on Sunday decided to ask medical colleges to mobilize their faculty members and students for the treatment of patients in different hospitals. Enditem
Sacramento police officers guard the dais as activists disrupt the Sacramento city council meeting in Sacramento, California, on March 05, 2019. (Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

Sacramento Proposes Record-High Police Budget Amid Calls to Defund the Police

The city of Sacramento, California, has unveiled a record-high police budget of $165.8 million, even after the creation of a new department that would shift certain responsibilities away from law enforcement.

In the face of cries from certain groups to defund the police across California and the United States, Sacramento City Manager Howard Chan has proposed a $9.4 million increase in the police budget, as part of the citys $1.3 billion overall budget for the fiscal year that begins July 1.

The changes, according to the proposal, cover a number of additions, including the recruitment of new officers, new replacement vehicles, and raises officers received from their union contract with the Sacramento Police Officers Association.

Meanwhile, the citys Department of Community Response (DCR) is set to receive nearly $5.8 million for the next fiscal year. The new department is designed to provide an alternative response model for 911 calls that are deemed to not require police involvement, such as mental health crises, homelessness issues, family crises, school responses, and substance issues.

Mayor Darrell Steinberg, who proposed the idea of DCR following widespread unrest triggered by the police custody death of George Floyd, said at least $10 million will be redirected to the new department from the police department between 2020 and 2022.

Im not for defunding,' Steinberg said, reported the Sacramento Bee. There are some things that are part of running a city, like collective bargaining and binding arbitration, and genuine needs for the police department.

The increase in budget still needs the approval of the City Council, and some members are already speaking out against it. Councilwoman Katie Valenzuela told the Sacramento Bee that she is going to vote against the plan.

To put more money into law enforcement when weve said as a city we want to move in another direction, it doesnt line up, she said.

In October 2020, the City Council voted unanimously to pass a public safety resolution, which acknowledged generations of genocide, structural racism, and oppression have created the conditions young people face that perpetuate violence, crime and other risks to public safety.

The resolution also broadened the definition of public safety to include youth-centered prevention services, such as arts, affordable housing, and food programs. As a result, those new programs will be funded by reallocating millions of dollars from police and fire departments.

These types of resources can help promote public safety and general welfare while reducing factors leading to service requests for police and fire to respond which may be better served by various preventive and proactive service, the resolution reads.

The council will discuss the police budget on May 25 and adopt a budget on June 15.
People wear masks in a subway station amid the COVID-19 pandemic, in New York City on March 29, 2020. (Chung I Ho/The Epoch Times)

Schumer Demands Restoration of 24-hour New York City Subway Service

Nonstop subway service should be restored in New York City, Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) said on May 2.

The city that never sleeps has a name we have to live up to everywhere, including within our subway service, Schumer, the Senate majority leader, told a briefing in the city.

As normal life resumes for many in the metropolis, the subway should be available at all times, the Democrat said.

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo on April 30, 2020, ordered the subway system to shut down each day for four hours starting at 1 a.m.

The move came because of deteriorating conditions, deaths from COVID-19 among transit workers, and a plunging subway ridership.

But the number of riders has shot up in recent months, hovering around 2 million per day in the last two weeks, according to the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA). Thats down over 50 percent from an equivalent day pre-pandemic, but much higher than the sparse numbers seen last year.

This is New York City. People work at 2 a.m. 3 a.m. 4 a.m. Thats how we are. So people work at two, three, and four in the morning but subways arent working at this point at 2, 3, 4 in the morning. So today, joined by New Yorkers who are among the millions that use the subway, we are here to say open it up, Schumer said.

We need 24-hour service restored now, and we are calling on the governor to do that immediately, said Betsy Plum, executive director of the Riders Alliance.

New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio said last week he plans to fully reopen the city by July 1 and that 24-hour subway service should resume by then.

But Cuomo holds the power to lift some restrictions from the city and controls the MTA, which operates the system.

Cuomos office didnt immediately return a request by The Epoch Times for comment.
Sen. Collins Says She Wont Support 28 Percent Corporate Tax Rate

Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine) on Sunday pushed back on the White Houses proposal to raise the corporate tax rate to 28 percent to pay for President Joe Bidens $2.25 trillion infrastructure plan.

Collins was commenting on a key feature of Bidens mammoth plan, which would raise the corporate tax rate to 28 percent from the current 21 percent. Raising the corporate tax rate would partially repeal the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which was seen as a major achievement of the Trump administration and a legacy Republicans would likely support preserving.

Let me tell you what I wont to support. I wont support American businesses paying the highest corporate tax rate among developed countries in the world once again, and, unfortunately, thats what 28 percent would be, Collins, who is a key swing vote in the 50-50 Senate, told CNNs State of the Union. And that means that jobs would once again go overseas.

During the interview, the Maine senator did not share how far she was willing to go to compromise on Bidens plan but she touted the $568 billion counter-proposal introduced by Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and other Senate Republicans. That plan would focus on the traditional concept of infrastructure, including $299 billion on roads and bridges, $61 billion on public transit systems, $20 billion on rail, $35 billion on drinking water and wastewater infrastructure, $13 billion on safety programs, $17 billion on ports and inland waterways, $44 billion on airports, $65 billion to expand broadband access, and $14 billion to address water shortages.

Well, at this point, I think now that the Republicans have put forth a reasonable offer, its up to the president to do a counteroffer to us, she said while also noting that the presidents current proposals total to more than $4 trillion.

Thats the amount that we spent to win World War II. So this is an enormous package when you take both the traditional core infrastructure parts and the huge expansion of social programs that the president is advocating, she added.

She also said that it was premature to discuss the funding of an infrastructure plan when details of such a plan have not yet been agreed on.

Other Republicans have also expressed an appetite for smaller infrastructure solutions without hiking the corporate tax rate. Rep. Steve Scalise (R-La.) on Friday told Axios that he was very open to negotiating a bipartisan package without raising taxes.

There are a few different ideas that are being worked on by Republicans and Democrats in the hundreds-of-billions-of-dollar range, not the trillions of dollars, but the most important part is the plans that Ive seen that I like and would support would be plans that are fully paid for without new taxes, Scalise said.

He argued that Trumps tax cuts helped bring millions of jobs back to America, resulting in historically low unemployment and more people paying taxes.

Democrats dont understand that logic, but when we cut taxes we brought millions of jobs back to America. You saw so many companies relocating companies that had left America to go to places like Ireland or Canada that moved their headquarters back, that moved jobs back by the millions, he said.

And because of that you had more people working, paying taxes. Hardly anybody was unemployed. If you wanted a job, every company was looking for workers, and they were paying higher wages. So it was great for American hardworking taxpayers, but it was also good for the Treasury because we took in more money by cutting taxes.

Democrats will need to convince at least 10 Republicans in the Senate to pass their infrastructure bill, or they could push it through without bipartisan support by once again turning to budget reconciliation, which would be seen by many to undermine Bidens campaign promise to govern by unifying the country.

Zachary Stieber contributed to this report.
Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC) walks through the Senate subway to vote on the Senate floor at the U.S. Capitol in Washington on April 28, 2021. (Sarah Silbiger/Getty Images)

Sen. Scott Hopeful on Police Reform as Democrats Now Looking for Solution, Not Issue

Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) on Sunday said that hes now hopeful on negotiating police reform with colleagues on the other side of the aisle as Democrats have since last year shifted their focus from looking for an issue to finding a solution to the problem.

Nearly a year after the Republican senator first unveiled his law enforcement reform bill in response to the nation-wide protest against police brutality fueled by the death of George Floyd, Scott said he is more optimistic about working with Democrats on the issue.

One of the reasons why Im hopeful is because, in a way, this time, my friends on the left arent looking for the issue; theyre looking for a solution, Scott, the fourth black politician from the South to serve in the U.S. Senate, told CBSs Face the Nation.

And the things that I offered last year are more popular this year. That gives me reasons to be hopeful, he told host John Dickerson.

Scott last June introduced the 106-page legislation named the Just and Unifying Solutions to Invigorate Communities Everywhere (JUSTICE) Act as a Republican counteroffer to the Democrats George Floyd Policing Act of 2020.

The measure was blocked from moving forward by Senate Democrats, who criticized it for not going far enough in many areas, particularly to combat any racial profiling and protections for police (qualified immunity) who are proved to have used excessive force.

It focused on long-term solutions for police accountability and transparency, while addressing short-term issues specific to rebuilding trust in minority communities.

The George Floyd bill has not yet been considered by the Senate. However, Republicans have criticized the legislation because it strips police officers of any qualified immunity.

Advocates for qualified immunity say, the doctrine allows police to do their job without having to worry that a split-second decision may cost them their job or livelihood, while opponents say it protects brutal officers and prevents victims from receiving justice.

Scott is now working with a bipartisan group of lawmakers to negotiate police reform legislation.

How do we change the culture of policing? I think we do that by making the employer responsible for the actions of the employee, Scott said. We do that with doctors. We do that with lawyers. We do that with almost all of our industries. If we do that in law enforcement, the employer will change the culture.

Scott told Dickerson hes confident that lawmakers on both sides of the aisle could overcome major sticking points in the Senate version of the proposed bill and that it could be brought very close together with the version that passed the House.

Think about the [parts] of the two bills that are in common  data collection, Scott said. I think through negotiations and conversations, we are closer on no-knock warrants and chokeholds, and then theres something called Section 1033 that has to do with getting government equipment from the military for local police.

He added, I think were making progress there too, so we have literally been able to bring these two bills very close together.

Days earlier, while delivering the GOP rebuttal to President Joe Bidens first address to a joint session of Congress, Scott said hes hopeful that this [police reform] will be different this time round.

Last year, after the deaths of Breonna Taylor and George Floyd, I built an even bigger police reform proposal, but my democratic colleagues blocked it, Scott said.

I extended an olive branch. I offered amendments, but Democrats use a filibuster to block the debate from even happening. My friends across the aisle seemed to want the issue more than they wanted a solution. But Im still working, he said.

The goal isnt for Republicans or Democrats to win, the South Carolina senator added during his CBS interview Sunday. But for communities to feel safer and our officers to feel respected. If we can accomplish those two major goals, the rest will be history.
Somalia legislators vote by rising their hands to cancel a divisive two-year presidential term extension, inside the lower house of Parliament in Mogadishu, Somalia, on May 1, 2021. (Feisal Omar/Reuters)

Somalias Parliament Votes to Cancel Presidential Term Extension

MOGADISHUSomali lawmakers voted unanimously on Saturday to cancel a two-year presidential term extension they had approved last month, after clashes in the capital Mogadishu between factions of the security forces, which are divided over the issue.

In a speech following the vote in the lower house of parliament, Prime Minister Mohamed Hussein Roble ordered the army to return to barracks and urged politicians to avoid inciting violence.

The political crisis has raised fears that al Qaeda-linked al Shabaab terrorists could exploit a security vacuum if state forces split along clan lines and turn on each other. The group has taken over at least one Somali town in the past week as heavily armed fighters moved from the countryside into the capital city.

President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohameds attempt to extend his term has also angered foreign donors, who have backed his government in an attempt to bring stability to Somalia after more than two decades as a failed state following a civil war that began in 1991.

Saturdays lower house vote was broadcast on Somali television and came shortly after Mohamed addressed parliament and said he was directing the prime minister to prepare to hold a delayed parliamentary election.

Roble said in a Twitter post late on Saturday that the government will soon prepare the plan for elections, and thanked the president and the parliament.

Mohameds term expired in February, but without a new crop of lawmakers, parliament was unable to choose a president.

The term extension was approved by the lower house last month but rejected by the Senate, provoking the crisis that has intensified in the past week.

Between 60,000 and 100,000 people were forced to flee their homes following clashes last Sunday that stirred fears of all-out war between heavily armed factions for and against the president.

Rashid Abdi, a Nairobi-based independent analyst, said the parliamentary vote and the presidents move towards holding elections appeared to be a good compromise.

The problem is there is so little trust between the parties and as long as Farmaajo holds the levers of the military and security services, it looks difficult to build confidence in that process, he said, using a popular nickname for the president.

The U.S. State Department, the EU ambassador, and the Turkish foreign ministry praised Saturdays developments.

We call on the parties to the agreement to meet immediately without preconditions to finalize electoral arrangements and begin implementation in a collaborative and transparent manner, State Department spokesman Ned Price said in a statement, adding that the United States stood ready to support the conduct of elections as soon as possible.

Battle Lines Drawn

Opposition lawmaker Abdirahman Odowaa told Reuters much remains to be done, adding that he wanted Mohamed to formalize what had been agreed.

The handing over of security and election process to the prime minister should be documented and signed  (He) has to go to the conference tent and sign  before all, Odowaa said.

Senator Ilyas Ali Hassan, from another opposition party, Himilo Qaran, said he hoped Roble will now lead the election and  do the right thing, so that this country can have a free and fair election.

Abdulahi Ali Hirsi Timaade, information minister of Puntland, one of Somalias five regional governments, told Reuters he wanted Mohamed to confirm in a letter that he had given Roble responsibility for the elections and security.

Mogadishu shopkeeper Duale Hussein said he feared the opposition had been duped.

He cleverly did a somersault, Hussein said of the president. Farmaajo still rules everything  Roble is just his remote control.

It was not immediately clear whether security forces loyal to the opposition would withdraw from fortified positions in the capital following Saturdays vote and Robles order, having refused to do so earlier.

Somalias armed forces include members of clan militias who have often battled each other for power and resources.

Mohamed is Darod, one of Somalias major clans. Most of the opposition leaders and Somali military in the capital are Hawiye, another large clan.
State Department spokesman Ned Price speaks during the daily press briefing at the State Department in Washington on Feb. 25, 2021. (Nicholas Kamm/Pool/AFP via Getty Images)

State Department Denies Reports of Iran Prisoner Swap for $7 Billion in Unfrozen Funds

The United States and Iran have both denied reports that a prisoner swap deal has been reached in exchange for the release of $7 billion frozen Iranian oil funds under U.S. sanctions.

A Sunday report by Iranian state television cited anonymous informed sources claiming that Tehran would free four Americans accused of spying in exchange for four Iranians held in the United States and the release of the frozen funds.

State Department spokesman Ned Price told The Epoch Times on Monday that no such deal had been struck.

Reports that a prisoner swap deal has been reached are not true, Price said in a statement. As we have said, we always raise the cases of Americans detained or missing in Iran. We will not stop until we are able to reunite them with their families, he added.

Ron Klain, White House chief of staff, also denied the report in remarks to CBS Face the Nation on Sunday, saying, unfortunately, that report is untrue. There is no agreement to release these four Americans.

Klain was asked whether he believes the Iranian state television report was a deliberate pressure ploy in negotiations.

Sometimes in these kind of things, the other country will rush to the microphones to force your hand. Do you feel that? asked CBS journalist John Dickerson.

No, Klain replied, adding, again, were working hard to bring these Americans home when we get that done we will obviously be delighted to announce that news.

Iranian state media on Monday cited Irans Foreign Ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh as denying the prisoner swap.

The report further cited Khatibzadeh as insisting that Iran and the UK were not engaged in legal talks to free Iranian-British national Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe. Sundays report by Iranian state televisionthe same one that cited anonymous sources about the claimed U.S.-Iran prisoner dealsaid Zaghari-Ratcliffe would be released once Britain had paid off a debt on military equipment owed to Tehran.

Zaghari-Ratcliffe, a project manager with the Thomson Reuters Foundation charity, was arrested at Tehran airport in April 2016 and later convicted of plotting to overthrow its regime, charges she denies.

Iran and world powers are holding talks to revive the 2015 nuclear accord that President Donald Trump pulled the United States out of three years ago. Trump believed that the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA)known commonly as the Iran nuclear dealwas not decisive enough in preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons. Besides pulling out of the deal in 2018, Trump restored and augmented sanctions to try to force Iran into renegotiating the pact with more concessions.

Trump argued that the Obama-era deal failed to address Irans destabilizing influence in the Middle East and the development of its ballistic missile program.

We cannot prevent an Iranian bomb under the decaying and rotten structure of the current agreement, Trump said in 2018.

After Trump pulled out of the deal, Iran violated some of the pacts nuclear restrictions.

President Joe Biden came into office saying that getting back into the accord was a priority. But Iran and the United States have disagreed over Irans demands that sanctions be lifted first, and the stalemate threatened to become an early foreign policy setback for the Biden administration.

Tehran and the powers have been meeting in Vienna since early April to work on steps that must be taken to bring Washington and Tehran back into deal, touching on U.S. sanctions and Irans breaches of the 2015 pact.

Iran says that, under the U.S. sanctions imposed in 2018, some $20 billion of its oil revenue has been frozen in a number of countries.

Irans top negotiator in Vienna, Abbas Araghchi, pressed Teherans position that all sanctions be removed, according to Irans official news agency.

Our red line is that all sanctions reimposed and those imposed under different labels must be lifted, Araghchi said.

Jake Sullivan, U.S. national security adviser, said on Sunday that no deal had been reached with Iran in Vienna.

There is still a fair distance to travel to close the remaining gaps, he said on ABCs This Week program. And those gaps are over what sanctions the United States and other countries will roll back. They are over what nuclear restrictions Iran will accept on its program to ensure that they can never get a nuclear weapon.

Sullivan added that U.S. diplomats would continue negotiating over the coming weeks to try to arrive at a mutual return to the JCPOA, which is the Iran nuclear deal on a compliance-for-compliance basis.
A bump stock is installed on an AK-47 and its movement is demonstrated at Good Guys Gun and Range in Orem, Utah on Feb. 21, 2018. (George Frey/Getty Images)

Supreme Court Wont Hear Appeal Against Maryland Bump Stock Ban

The Supreme Court has decided against taking up a challenge to Marylands ban on bump stocks and other devices that help guns fire faster.

The ruling in Maryland Shall Issue Inc. v. Hogan, court file 20-855, came in an unsigned order on May 3. In line with its custom, the court didnt explain why it denied the petition for certiorari, or review.

The decision came after the high court decided on April 26 to hear New York State Rifle and Pistol Association v. Corlett, court file 20-843. In that case, lower courts upheld a state law requiring individuals to obtain a license to carry a concealed weapon outside the home. The hearing will likely take place in the fall.

It also came as the Biden administration embarks on a crackdown on what it calls a gun violence public health epidemic. President Joe Biden wants to ban arm braces for pistols and do-it-yourself gun-making kits, as well as to promote so-called red flag laws, which encourage snitching on law-abiding gun owners.

Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan, a Republican, signed the law known as SB707 in April 2018.

SB707 provides that no person may manufacture, possess, sell, offer to sell, transfer, purchase, or receive a rapid-fire trigger activator in Maryland, according to the petition filed by Baltimore-based nonprofit Maryland Shall Issue. Breaking this law is a criminal misdemeanor subject to a term of imprisonment up to three years, a fine of up to $5,000, or both.

Maryland Shall Issue didnt question the states authority to outlaw rapid-fire trigger activators, but demanded just compensation for the forced dispossession of previously legal private property which Marylanders had lawfully purchased or possessed before SB707.

Mark Pennak, counsel of record for and president of Maryland Shall Issue, said that given the current case law and circumstances, a challenge to the law under the U.S. Constitutions takings clause and the takings clause and due process clause of the Maryland Constitution seemed the best course of action.

The banned devices are perfectly legal private property, but according to the 4th Circuit Court of Appeals decision, Maryland gets to ban possession of ordinary private property, Pennak told The Epoch Times in an interview.

The result is that if your property doesnt meet with political favor in Annapolis, well then, too bad.

We still have the option of pursuing these takings claims in state courts which are not bound under the 4th Circuit decision, and we intend to do precisely that, he said. We will go under the state constitution, because if anything, it is more protecting of private property than the federal constitution.

The statute bans a bump stock, trigger crank, hellfire trigger, binary trigger system, burst trigger system, or a copy or a similar device, regardless of the producer or manufacturer, as well as any rapid fire trigger activator, which is defined as any device that, when installed in or attached to a firearm, increases the rate at which a trigger is activated or the rate of fire increases.

The ban came after a high-profile mass shooting in Las Vegas on Oct. 1, 2017, in which gunman Stephen Paddock attached bump stocks to semiautomatic rifles he used to shoot Route 91 Harvest Music Festival attendees from his hotel room on the Las Vegas Strip.

The use of bump stocks enabled the gunman to fire more than a thousand rounds of ammunition in just ten minutes, a rate of fire comparable to that of machine guns banned by federal law, Maryland Attorney General Brian Frosh, a Democrat, stated in a brief filed with the Supreme Court.

In response to the Las Vegas shooting, Maryland, like many other States, exercised its police powers to outlaw bump stocks and other devices that mimic the firepower of a machine gun.

Separately, Frosh told The Epoch Times that the Supreme Court did the right thing in refusing to take the case.

Upholding Marylands ban on bump stocks is common sense, Frosh said in an emailed statement.

These devices caused mass destruction in Las Vegas: 60 deaths, more than 400 wounded, and more than 800 total injuries. Bump stocks serve no useful social purpose, but can exact a staggering human toll.

The Trump administration banned the sale and possession of bump stocks in 2019, with the Department of Justice amending the regulations of its Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, finding that bump stocks fall within the definition of machine gun under federal law because they allow a shooter of a semiautomatic firearm to initiate a continuous firing cycle with a single pull of the trigger.

The Supreme Court refused to block the government at that time from enforcing the prohibition.
A deck collapsed at a restaurant in Tennessee on Saturday, resulting in at least 11 people being hospitalized, officials said. Two people were critically injured. (Hamilton County, TN Office of Emergency Management & Homeland Security.)

Tennessee Deck Collapses, at Least 11 Injured

A deck collapsed at a restaurant in Tennessee on Saturday, resulting in at least 11 people being hospitalized, officials said. Two people were critically injured.

Amy Maxwell, with Hamilton County Emergency Management, told News Channel 9 that when people began taking a group photo for a birthday party, the deck collapsed. They were at the Zois Restaurant in Soddy-Daisy.

Dallas Bay Fire Department Chief Markus Fritts added to the outlet that more than 40 people were on the deck when it gave out.

Sondra Teligades, one woman who was injured, told the outlet that she was treated a concussion and rib contusions at Erlanger Hospital.

Details of Deck Collapse at Zois Restaurant at Harbor Lights Marina. https://t.co/zn8vZ1nuP7 pic.twitter.com/reM1h1ApAz  HamCoTNES (@HamCoTNES) May 1, 2021

Deck collapsed at Zois Restaurant @ Harbour Lights Marina (9700 Hixson Pike). Details to come. pic.twitter.com/B0dn3HAs7I  HamCoTNES (@HamCoTNES) May 1, 2021

Soddy-Daisy is approximately 17 miles north of Chattanooga.

Other details about the incident were not provided.
A doctor performs an ultrasound on a pregnant woman during her visit to a gynecologist in a file photo. (Jennifer Jacobs/AFP/Getty Images)

Texas City Becomes Sanctuary City for the Unborn Following Vote

A city in Texas voted on May 1 to become a sanctuary city for the unborn after its residents approved an ordinance that outlawed abortion within the city.

Sixty-two percent of voters in Lubbock, a city of about 250,000 people in northwest Texas, backed the measure while 38 percent voted against it, according to unofficial results from the Lubbock County Elections Office.

Part of the ordinance reads: It shall be unlawful for any person to procure or perform an abortion of any type and at any stage of pregnancy in the City of Lubbock, Texas. It also renders abortion at all stages of pregnancy an act of murder, with a medical exception.

The ordinance is likely to face legal challenges. The Lubbock City Council voted unanimously last November to reject the ordinance, raising concerns that it may be unconstitutional and may open the door to lawsuits. Voters in the city were then given a chance to approve or reject the ban in a local May 1 election.

Lubbock Mayor Dan Pope issued a statement in response to the election results.

Over the course of several months, Lubbock citizens who support the ordinance and those opposed have expressed their thoughts in public forums and engaged in passionate debate on this sensitive issue. Today, voters made it clear that Lubbock will become the next sanctuary city for the unborn. I am encouraged by the significant voter turnout, he told local media KCBD.

He said that the city council will begin the process of adding the approved ordinance into the citys Code of Ordinances and will canvass the votes from the election on May 11. The ordinance is likely to come into effect on June 1, he said.

The effort to outlaw abortion comes after a Planned Parenthood clinic opened last year.

Reacting to the early results, Sarah Wheat, a spokeswoman for Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas, said, We are committed to expanding access to abortion and will provide abortion services when possible in Lubbock.

Meanwhile, the American Civil Liberties Union, which has filed multiple lawsuits against measures limiting abortions, said the organization has a long history of challenging unconstitutional abortion bans and will continue to fight to protect the fundamental rights of the people of Lubbock, without indicating whether they intend to launch a legal challenge.

Meanwhile, Rep. Dustin Burrows, a Lubbock Republican, called the vote a victory for life in a statement to The Texas Tribune.

Today is a victory for life and proof that the silent majority will still stand up for its Christian conservative values, Burrows said.

This comes as Republican-led states are weighing or have proposed bills aimed at limiting abortions such as heartbeat bills, which bans most abortions once a fetal heartbeat is detected, usually at around six weeks of pregnancy.

Many of these bills have led to a series of legal challenges in courts. These states are hoping that the lawsuits could be a vehicle to challenge Roe v. Wade, which classifies the right to choose to have an abortion as fundamental, in the Supreme Court. Several courts across the country have already invalidated the heartbeat bill.

In June last year, the Supreme Court struck down a Louisiana law that required doctors who perform abortions to have hospital admitting privileges close to where the procedure takes place.

The court said the law was unconstitutional. It found that the Louisiana law was almost identical to a 2016 Texas law that had already been struck down by the same court and that the Texas law placed a substantial obstacle in the path of women seeking an abortion.
Katie Telford, chief of staff to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, arrives for the first day of a Liberal cabinet retreat in Ottawa on Sept. 14, 2020. (The Canadian Press/Adrian Wyld)

Tories Take Aim at PMs Top Aide Over Vance Allegations as Sajjan Dodges Questions

OTTAWAThe federal Conservatives are taking aim at Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus top aide as they press the government over its handling of a sexualmisconduct complaint against general Jonathan Vance.

The Tories on Friday tabled a proposed motion calling for Trudeau to dismiss his chief of staff, Katie Telford, after another of the prime ministers advisers suggested she knew about the allegation against Vance three years ago.

Trudeau defended Telford last week even as he told reporters and parliamentarians that no one in his office or Defence Minister Harjit Sajjans office knew the allegation against Vance was of a sexual nature.

That appeared to contradict the testimony of thenmilitary ombudsman Gary Walbourne, who first flagged the allegation to Sajjan in March 2018, as well as internal government documents suggesting officials in both offices did know.

Walbourne testified two months ago that he told Sajjan the complaint related to inappropriate sexual behaviour.

The Conservative motion is one of three that the party can choose to go to a vote in the House of Commons on Tuesday, and comes as the Commons defence committee prepares to resume debate over whether to call Telford to testify.

Liberal committee members talked out the clock Friday in a bid to stall opposition attempts to have Telford appear to answer questions.

The Tories, who regularly put several motions on notice but can only choose one, could also ask MPs to condemn Irans election to the UN status of women commission or criticize a bill that would let the government regulate socialmedia content.

While opposition parties have more seats in the House than the Liberals, meaning any could pass, such motions are symbolic and are not binding on the government.

Telford has served as Trudeaus most senior staffer since forming government in 2015.

The prime minister lost his other most trusted adviser, Gerald Butts, after the latter resigned during the SNC Lavalin affair in February 2019.

Sajjan, meanwhile, sidestepped repeated questions about whether he knew the nature of the complaint against Vance as he appeared Sunday on different political talk shows on television.

It does not matter what the complaint actually was, a complaint was brought forward about the chief of defence staff, and at that time what we needed to do was take immediate action so that could be looked into properly, and that was done, he told CTVs Question Period.

The minister also told Global News, which first reported on the allegation against Vance in February, that he didnt have much details on that.

However, documents obtained by Global under access to information laws showed that on the same day his office asked civil servants to open a probe, bureaucrats were referring to sexual harassment in internal emails.

While the nature of the complaint reported by Walbourne has not been confirmed, Global News has reported that it involves a lewd email Vance allegedly sent to a service member he significantly outranked in 2012, before he became commander of Canadas military.

Vance has not responded to requests for comment from The Canadian Press, but Global has reported he denies any wrongdoing. He stepped down as chief of the defence staff in January and has since retired from the military.

By Lee Berthiaume
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 05:23:11|Editor: huaxia

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UNITED NATIONS, May 2 (Xinhua) -- The high representative for the UN Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), Miguel Moratinos, on Sunday strongly condemned the brutal killing of a religious figure in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

Sheikh Ali Amin Uthman, the representative of the Islamic community of Beni, was killed on Saturday when unidentified gunmen stormed the central mosque and shot him dead during evening prayers.

Moratinos also denounced the violent attacks over the past days in nearby villages that left 19 people dead. Sheikh Uthman had been often vocal in his denunciation of violent extremism, said Nihal Saad, Moratinos' spokeswoman, in a press statement.

Moratinos expressed the hope that the perpetrators of these heinous crimes would soon be brought to justice. He extended his deepest condolences to the family of Sheikh Uthman as well as the families of the other victims who were killed in the past few days in eastern DRC, said the statement.

Moratinos called for respect for the sanctity of the holy month of Ramadan and hoped that the spirit of compassion, peace and mutual respect prevails. He recalled the recommendations of the UN Plan of Action to Safeguard Religious Sites and stressed the inherent right of everyone to practice the rituals of their religions or beliefs freely and safely, it said. Enditem
Former President Donald Trump addresses the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) held in the Hyatt Regency in Orlando, Fla., on Feb. 28, 2021. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

Trump Says Endorsement Led to Shutout of Democrats in House Race

Former President Donald Trump claimed victory after his endorsement of a leading GOP candidate shut out Democrats from a congressional special election in Texas.

Republicans Susan Wright, the wife of the late Rep. Ron Wright, finished with 19 percent of the vote, while Jake Ellzey garnered 14 percent. Democrat Jana Lynne Sanchez finished third with 13 percent and conceded on May 2.

Please explain to the Democrats and RINOs that the reason Texas-06 completely shut out Democrats in Saturdays Jungle Primary is because of my Endorsement of Susan Wright, who surged last week after receiving it, the former president said in a statement on Monday. RINO, or Republican in name only, is a term used against Republicans who seemingly embrace progressive or Democratic politics.

Trump continued, The Democrats were shut out and now it will be a contest between two Republicans, a very big win. It would be nice, however, if the pundits and Fake News Media would state the real reason for this unprecedented (Democrats have never been shut out before) victory!

Wright is the wife of a deceased Rep. Ron Wright (R-Texas), who died earlier this year after a long battle with cancer.

Trump won the 6th Congressional district in 2020 by 3 percentage points.

Democrats have a come a long way toward competing in Texas, but we still have a way to go, Sanchez said in a statement over the weekend. Unfortunately  we came up short, and two Republicans will be competing to represent this congressional district.

A runoff between the top two vote-getters is required since no candidate received a majority in the first round. A runoff date has not yet been set. The election was the first test of the Texas electorate since President Joe Bidens 2020 election victory. Trump defeated Biden in Texas, a state where Democrats hope to make inroads.

Democrats said they had hoped to flip the seat.

Although a Democrat is not advancing to the runoff, yesterdays incredibly close margins showed that voters are invested in electing Democrats, and are fighting for the representation their communities deserve, Texas Democratic Party Chairman Gilberto Hinojosa said in a statement on May 2.

The new Democratic South is rising, and we will continue to rally our movement to take back our stateincluding as we look toward the 2022 governors race, Hinojosa added. Were ready to build Democratic power, ready to defeat Texas Republicans, and ready to elect leaders who defend our rights and put Texans first.

Reuters contributed to this report.
TSMCs Plan to Boost Chip Production in Chinese Factory Met With Opposition

Chip giant Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) recently announced its plan to add new production lines in its existing plant in Nanjing, China. However, an expert in Chinas telecom industry penned an article to express his opposition, claiming that China may not obtain the technology it desires from TSMC, and Chinese companies will face more competition.

On April 22, TSMC convened an ad hoc board of directors meeting and approved an investment of $2.887 billion to install new production lines for 28-nanometer (nm) chips at its Nanjing plant in China, expecting mass production at a monthly output of 40,000 units by 2023, according to Taiwans Liberty Times.

An article by Chinas telecom expert, Xiang Ligang, was published the next day and warned that TSMCs plan will seriously hurt Chinas chip industry, and called on local authorities in Nanjing to stop TSMCs move.

Chinas Chip Industry Hampered by US Sanctions

The United States has blacklisted leading Chinese semiconductor companies over security concernsHuawei, SMIC, (Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation) and Feiteng, are restricted from exporting chips that are 10 nm and below. On April 16, two U.S. lawmakers sent a letter to the Secretary of Commerce, requesting chip manufacturers that use American tools should be prevented from selling 14 nm or better chips to Chinese companies.

Xiang pointed out in his article that TSMC is keeping the most advanced technology, such as 7 nm and below, as well as 90 percent of its production capacity in Taiwan. The 5 nm chip manufacturing project in Arizona, a $12 billion investment, is the only cutting-edge project of TSMC outside Taiwan.

In addition, TSMC complied with the sanction of the United States to ban export control of chip supplies to Chinese companies such as Huawei, SMIC, and Feiteng, Xiang said.

He stated that what China needs is advanced technology of 14 nm process and below, not 28nm process and above, which is mature technology.

China Wont Be Able to Obtain Advanced Process Technology

It is well-known that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) obtains coveted key technologies from foreign countries, either by coercive technology transfer, stealing, or poaching talents.

In the past several years, China has poached hundreds of TSMC engineers, who brought trade secrets to state-owned companies. State-owned SMICs current vice chairman, Chiang Shangyi, and CEO, Liang Mong Song, are both former TSMCs veteran and top experts.

However, Xiang is concerned that China wont be able to obtain key technology from TSMC at this time.

If we support TSMCs production expansion in Nanjing, China wont be able to obtain advanced process technology in chip manufacturing, and Chinese companies wont obtain advanced chip products. Our chip industry will still be held back [by the U.S. sanctions], Xiang wrote.

Xiang is also concerned that TSMC will crush Chinas chipmakers by dumping, and hence dominating Chinas marketa typical approach that CCP-controlled companies often use to crush foreign competitors.

SMIC Gets Huge Sum of State Funds

TSMC began mass production of 28 nm chips as early as 2011, and the current yield is as high as 90 to 95 percent. SMIC, Chinas major chip processing company, produces a significantly lower amount of 28 nm chips compared to TSMC, according to Chinese state media. But no specific figures have ever been provided.

However, during SMICs publicity campaign in March, Chinese state media touted that in the manufacturing of 14 nm chips, SMICs yield has caught up with that of TSMC, which has achieved a 90 to 95 percent yield.

Xiang does not believe this claim, as he said TSMC could easily defeat Chinese chip companies.

The two recent large-scale production projects of SMIC are both backed by government funds. SMIC announced last month that the company and Shenzhen government would jointly invest in a $2.35 billion project for wafer production of 12-inch 28 nm and above, with a monthly output of 40,000 units, starting in 2022, according to Chinese news portal Sina. SMICs capacity is similar to TSMCs projected production in its Nanjing plant and is one year earlier than TSMC.

In December last year, with the support of Chinas Big Fund phase II, SMIC invested a total of $5 billion to build a 12-inch chip manufacturing and packaging project in its Beijing plant. This project is expected to be completed in 2024, with a monthly output of approximately 100,000 wafers, Sina reported.

According to Sina, SMIC announced that from April 1 this year, the foundry price will be adjusted across the board, with price increases between 15 percent and 30 percent. A foundry refers to a semiconductor fabrication plant and its main business is to manufacture chips for other fabless IC (integrated circuit) companies. All U.S. companies are fabless companies and they rely on foundry companies in Taiwan to produce the chips they have designed.

China is currently heavily dependent on foreign chips for its tech manufacturing, though Beijing aims to domestically produce 70 percent of its semiconductor needs by 2025, under its industrial policy of Made in China 2025.

On Sept. 3, 2020, Beijing promised to spend an additional $1.4 trillion through 2025 to boost its semiconductor industry, according to Bloomberg, citing unnamed sources.
US Soldier Advocates for the Deaf

Christopher Jackson, an active-duty soldier who grew up in a deaf household, learned critical values such as discipline and work ethic from living and interacting with deaf relatives. Now, hes on a mission to encourage service and advocate for the deaf.

Jackson, 34, grew up in Houston. His father is completely deaf and his mother has significant hearing impairment. Deafness runs on his fathers side of the family, and while his mother was born able to hear, she lost half of her hearing after a childhood illness. As the oldest of three children, he became their translator. Jackson also has extended family members, such as cousins, who are deaf, and he learned American Sign Language to communicate with them.

By the time Jackson was 8 years old, he found himself taking on a great deal of responsibility. When bills and other mail arrived at the home, he read and translated them into ASL. The same went for doctors appointments and court hearings. When the family went to church, he signed for his parents during the service.

I had to grow up real fast. I had to mature at a very young age, Jackson said.

Role Models

Even as a young kid, Jackson realized the world was a rough place. People tried to take advantage of his parents deafness and scam them on transactions such as purchasing a car or renting an apartment. As a child, he would realize this, and fight and advocate for his parents.

There were also those who would ridicule his parents in public. He would sign with his parents, let them know they were being insulted, and confront those who were mocking them. When he did stand up to them, they would demur and pretend that they didnt mean what they had said about his mother and father. Even at school, students would mock his parents and he would get in fights standing up for them.

Christopher Jackson learned American Sign Language at an early age to communicate with his family. (Courtesy of Christopher Jackson)

Despite his fathers deafness, Jackson learned from his example what it meant to be a man. His father worked for a printing press that was a 45-minute drive from Houston, but the family didnt have a car, so he would bike to and from work. At home, he maintained the yard and cooked for the family. Jackson quickly learned the value of hard work and discipline from his dad.

There was nothing that stopped him. Its like his disability didnt matter, Jackson said.

In September 2004, Jackson enlisted in the Army. A member of his church had been stationed in Houston, and Jackson looked up to him as a role model to emulate. Seeing other men, African American men in particular, in leadership positions inspired him. The discipline instilled in Jackson during his upbringing made him a good fit for the military, and having had to translate in public for his parents gave him the confidence to be an effective leader.

ASL and Advocacy

Jacksons expertise in ASL would ultimately come into play in the Army. In 2016, while he was on duty as a drill sergeant at Ft. Jackson, South Carolina, he made a video supporting a young ROTC graduate who was unable to be commissioned as an officer because of his deafness. In the video, he advocated for the deaf and urged them to join the military in areas such as logistics and human resources.

He posted the video on Instagram, and by the next evening, it had accumulated 4.3 million views. The post caught the attention of the general, and at first, Jackson thought he was in trouble. But when he spoke with his commanding officers, they were receptive.

A few months later, the Army featured Jackson in a Thanksgiving commercial in which he signed. Not long afterward, the Army allowed the deaf ROTC graduate to create the first deaf JROTC cadet program. The cadets were from a school for the deaf, and were able to attend a week of basic training at Ft. Jackson.

I can tell you that they were able to fit right in. They did PT [physical training] just like the rest of the soldiers, and believe it or not, they outperformed the majority of the soldiers when it came to physical fitness, Jackson said.

Jackson is still on active duty and isnt permitted to advocate for the deaf community while in uniform. But he is free to do his work off-duty. He posts live on social media with his father and his brother, and they recount their experiences of what its like to be deaf and what it was like to grow up in a deaf household.

He also has his own platform called Team Stay Motivated to improve peoples lives mentally, physically, and spiritually to create a better generation for tomorrow. His goal is to urge the deaf to serve their country in civilian roles, and he tries to dispel misconceptions about those who live with the condition.

I do not think being deaf is a crutch. I dont think its a handicap, Jackson said.
Britain's Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab, right, and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken attend a joint press conference at Downing Street in London, Monday, May 3, 2021, during the G7 foreign ministers meeting. (Ben Stansall/Pool Photo via AP)

US and UK Reject Reports of Imminent Prisoner Deal With Iran

LONDONThe United States and the U.K. dismissed reports coming out of Iran that they are thrashing out a prisoner exchange deal with Tehran that could see the imminent release of a British-Iranian woman, Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, and four Americans, among others.

Iran was a key topic of discussions Monday between U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and his host in London, British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab. Their meeting took place a day before the first face-to-face meeting of foreign ministers from the Group of Seven leading industrial nations in two years, largely due to the coronavirus pandemic. Iran, Ukraine, China, Russia, climate change and COVD-19 are expected to dominate the talks.

Blinkens visit to London, his first since being appointed by President Joe Biden, comes amid mounting speculation of a prisoner swap deal with Iran. Such exchanges are not uncommon and were a feature of the 2015 nuclear accord between Iran and the worlds leading powers. Biden has indicated he is looking to restart nuclear talks with Tehran after his predecessor, former President Donald Trump, pulled the United States out of the agreement in 2018.

The reports coming out of Tehran are not accurate, Blinken said at a press briefing after their meeting, adding that he had no higher priority than bringing all detained Americans home.

More broadly on this, we have to take a stand against the arbitrary detention of citizens for political purposes, he said.

Raab also dismissed the prospects of an imminent breakthrough amid reports in Iran that Britain would pay a 400 million-pound ($550 million) debt to secure Zaghari-Ratcliffes release. He insisted that the British government was working very intensively on the release of detained British citizens in Iran.

I would say its incumbent on Iran unconditionally to release those who are held arbitrarily and in our view unlawfully, Raab said.

Richard Ratcliffe, husband of British-Iranian aid worker Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, and their daughter Gabriella protest outside the Iranian Embassy in London, Britain, on March 8, 2021. (Andrew Boyers/Reuters)

In Britain, theres particular interest in the well-being of Zaghari-Ratcliffe, who was last week sentenced to an additional year in prison on charges of spreading propaganda against the system.

The two diplomats discussed an array of subjects, such as sanctions on Russian citizens, climate change and Bidens decision to withdraw U.S. troops from Afghanistan later this year, a process that began in earnest over the weekend. Russia and its aggressive actions toward Ukraine were also on the agenda, with Blinken set to travel to the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv on Wednesday.

Biden is also set to take a new approach with regard to North Korea following a policy review completed last week. Blinken, who met in London with his Japanese and South Korean counterparts earlier Monday, said the new approach will be practical and calibrated and urged the leadership in Pyongyang to take the opportunity to engage diplomatically.

Britains Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab (R) greets U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken as he arrives for their bilateral meeting in London, Britain, on May 3, 2021. (Ben Stansall/Pool via Reuters)

On Tuesday, the top diplomats from the full G-7Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the U.K. and the United Stateswill meet along with their foreign minister colleagues from selected other countries, including Australia, India and South Africa.

Ahead of the gathering, German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas warned that authoritarian states around the world are trying to play us against each other and that breaches of international law have become commonplace.

It is important that we hold our values of democracy, state of law, human rights and a global order based on rules against them, united and credibly, he said.

Britains Foreign Office said the G-7 ministers will invest $15 billion in development finance over the next two years to help women in developing countries access jobs, build resilient businesses and recover from the coronavirus pandemic.

They are also expected to pledge to get 40 million more girls into school and 20 million more girls reading by the age of 10 in poorer nations by 2026.

By Pan Pylas
Ultra Orthodox Jews look at stairs with waste on it in Mount Meron, northern Israel, where fatalities were reported among the thousands of ultra-Orthodox Jews gathered at the tomb of a 2nd-century sage for annual commemorations that include all-night prayer and dance, on April 30, 2021. (Ronen Zvulun/Reuters)

US Citizens Among Dozens Killed in Israeli Stampede

Multiple U.S. citizens were among the dozens killed and injured in a stampede at a religious festival in Israel, the U.S. Embassy said on Saturday.

Forty-five people were crushed to death and more than 100 injured at the ultra-Orthodox Jewish festival on the slopes of Israels Mount Meron, held overnight between Thursday and Friday.

Six U.S. citizens were among the dead, according to the U.S. embassy in Jerusalem. Two Canadians, a British citizen, and an Argentinian were also killed.

The exact cause of the disaster is still not clear but witness accounts and videos posted on social media suggested that some people had fallen down stairs leading out of a narrow passageway packed by hundreds of worshippers trying to exit the site, as a surge of people came down upon those ahead of them who had fallen, being trampled.

Medics and rescue workers attend to the Lag BOmer event in Mount Meron, northern Israel, where fatalities were reported among the thousands of ultra-Orthodox Jews gathered at the tomb of a 2nd-century sage for annual commemorations that include all-night prayer and dance, at Mount Meron, Israel, on April 30, 2021. (Stringer/Reuters)

One witness described seeing a pyramid of people piling up one on top of the other. Authorities said there were children among those hurt.

Avigdor Hayut, injured in the crush, lost his 13-year-old son. He said they were caught under a mass of people.

I was on the floor. Twenty seconds stood between me being with him now, no more. I was already numb and my vision was blurred, he told reporters before he was released from hospital to attend his sons funeral.

My son was screaming to me, Daddy, Im going to die,' Hayut said. They got me out at the last minute.

Medics and rescue workers attend to the Lag BOmer event in Mount Meron, northern Israel, where fatalities were reported among the thousands of ultra-Orthodox Jews gathered at the tomb of a 2nd-century sage for annual commemorations that include all-night prayer and dance, at Mount Meron, Israel, on April 30, 2021. (Stringer/Reuters)

The Health Ministry said 32 of the dead had been identified by late Friday. The identification process paused for 24 hours in observance of the Jewish Sabbath and resumed on Saturday evening as families prepared for burials.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry said on Friday that consulate officials in New York were in contact with four families of victims and the Israeli embassy in Argentina was in contact with one family.

U.S. media have identified some of the dead, including a 19-year-old American citizen who was in Israel on a gap year.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said on Friday that two Canadians were killed in the disaster.

Safety Concerns

There had been concern for years about safety risks at the annual event, held at the tomb of a 2nd-century Jewish sage in the Galilee.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu promised a thorough investigation to ensure the tragedy would not happen again.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visits the scene where dozens were killed in crush at a religious festival in Mount Meron, Israel, on April 30, 2021. (Ronen Zvulun-Pool/Getty Images)

The Justice Ministry said investigators would look into whether there had been any police misconduct connected to the tragedy.

But police commissioner Yaakov Shabtai, in a message to the police force, said that police should not be singled out.

We are working to discover the truth and produce educated and balanced lessons for all organizations involved in this complex event, he said.

Day of Mourning

Israel observed a day of mourning on Sunday for the 45 killed in the stampede, with flags lowered to half-staff.

In accordance with Jewish tradition, funerals were held with as little delay as possible. More than 20 of the victims of the disaster were buried overnight after official identification was completed.

Were all heartbroken, saddened, shattered into a million pieces. There are no words to describe the feeling of the entire country, Rabbi Velvel Brevda, 66, said on Sunday on Mount Meron, where prayer vigils were being held.

Epoch Times staff contributed to this report
An Orthodox priest blesses traditional Easter cakes and painted eggs prepared for Easter celebration at a church in St. Petersburg, Russia, on May 1, 2021. (Dmitri Lovetsky/AP Photo)

Virus-Hit Russia Reports 25 Percent Death Increase in January-March

MOSCOWRussias state statistical service says the number of deaths nationwide in the first three months of 2021 was more than 25 percent higher than the same period a year ago, and it reported thousands more deaths due to COVID-19 in March than tallied by the countrys coronavirus task force.

More than 583,000 people died in January-March of this year in Russia, compared with 460,000 for those same months in 2020, the Rosstat agency said in a report issued Friday.

The agency did not provide an explanation for the sharply higher death toll, but critics have suggested that Russian officials underplay the severity of the pandemic in the country.

People, some of them wearing face masks to protect against coronavirus, are reflected in a marble wall of an underpass as they walk in Moscow, Russia, on April 19, 2021. (Alexander Zemlianichenko/AP Photo)

The national coronavirus task force counted more than 12,300 deaths from COVID-19 in March, but Rosstat gave a substantially higher number. The agency said there were 15,003 deaths that month in which coronavirus was the leading cause, along with 2,454 cases in which COVID-19 was believed to be the leading cause and 1,401 deaths in which COVID-19 influenced other diseases and accelerated death.

According to the task force, throughout the pandemic, 110,502 people have died in Russia of COVID-19 as of Saturday392 of them in the past day. The country has recorded more than 4.8 million confirmed cases.

Communist party supporters gather with red flags to mark Labour Day, also known as May Day near Red Square in Moscow, Russia, on May 1, 2021. (Alexander Zemlianichenko/AP Photo)

Although Russia has boasted of being the first country to authorize a coronavirus vaccinethe Russian-made Sputnik Vthe pace of its vaccination program is lagging well behind many other countries.

Only about 8 percent of Russians have gotten at least one vaccine shot, while 5 percent have been fully vaccinated. That puts Russia far behind Britain, where 50 percent of the population has gotten at least one shot; the United States at 43 percent and the European Union with nearly 27 percent.
Chinese paramilitary police walk in a street next to Tiananmen Square ahead of an overnight rehearsal of a military parade to mark Communist China's 70th anniversary, in Beijing, China, on Sept. 7, 2019. (Greg Baker/AFP/Getty Images)

WaPo Elides Chinas Military Threat, Then Offers No Solution

Commentary

On May 1, the Editorial Board of The Washington Post finally, at first glance, somewhat-kind-of recognized a military threat emanating from Beijing. The Board cooly noted a series of incremental escalations by Chinese forces in the Taiwan Strait and South China Sea, that are substantially advancing a strategy for establishing its dominance in East Asia and forcing Taiwans surrender.

The Post (WaPo) noted Chinas trawlers that are believed to be under military control and recently appeared around Whitsun Reef within the Philippine exclusive economic zone (EEZ), as well as debilitating daily harassment of the Taiwan Air Force by Chinese warplanes.

But the language was a tad diminutive. Chinas maritime militia were described as little blue men in a lagoon. A Chinese aircraft carrier cruised by the Taiwanese coast in April. How pleasant! Boating with the Blue Man Group in springtime.

The Board further hastened to calm any fears of its readers, claiming that Few analysts expect offensive military action by China against Taiwan or in the South China Sea in the near future. Oh, is that so? Ive always wondered what the experts dont say.

The thing is, offensive military actions against Taiwan and in the South China Sea are already happening. Chinas militarized South China Sea islands are both offensive and military (of course). Chinas fighter jet, nuclear-capable bomber, and aircraft carrier operations that encircle Taiwan are normalizing Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) activity so that if a full invasion occurs, there will be next to no warning. Its called pulsing the enemy and its part of the strategy and continuum of grey zone military combat offensives.

A Chinese navy formation, including the aircraft carrier Liaoning (C), during military drills in the South China Sea, on Jan. 2, 2017. (STR/AFP via Getty Images)

Second, WaPo gives no details on how many analysts it polled on the matter of Chinas offensive military action, and what kind of random sampling method it used to do so. Sorry if that sounds boring, but it is kind of important.

The Board doesnt mention the claim by a Stanford expert that China could be ready to militarily force unification on Taiwan within a year. The Board members knew about it if they read the Wall Street Journal article (a far less biased paper) to which their own opinion links.

Contrary to their claim, the analysts I know are very worried about a substantial escalation of Chinas military offensives, and a potential tipping point of China exceeding U.S. military forces in East Asia as early as the next two-to-six years. The Chinese Communist Party is building naval vessels faster than we are. Capiche?

WaPo doesnt mention that Beijing has rammed, sunk, kidnapped, and massacred scores of fishermen and marines from the Philippines and Vietnam since it cranked up its South China Sea fight in 1974. A University of Chicago professor recently made the argument that the Party operates as a terrorist organization. So, they are terrorists with nuclear weapons?

Nothing to see here. Please move along.

Neither does WaPo mention Chinas recent aggression against India in the Himalayas, Japans Senkaku Islands, or use of lasers against the U.S. Air Force as recently as last year, not to mention Chinas doubling and modernization of a nuclear weapons arsenal that can range the entire Continental United States. It doesnt mention Chinas complicity in North Koreas nuclear weapons program.

The WaPo opinion is so expertly elisive as to resemble the Peoples Daily coverage of the Uyghur genocide. One wonders, who is taking lessons from whom?

A man walks past The Washington Post in Washington on Aug. 5, 2013. (Brendan Smialowski/AFP via Getty Images)

In its usual pumping of the Democrats, WaPo uses a double negative to elide Bidens inaction against these incredible military provocations. The Biden administration is not disregarding Beijings provocations, they write, in a manner that should be considered untruthful given the magnitude and breadth of Chinas aggression. Bidens rhetoric and upgraded diplomatic contacts with Taiwan are apparently a regarding of Beijings provocations, for the Washington Post.

The closest the Board gets to offering a solution is noting that the Biden administration has not yet gone along with suggestions that it end the long-standing policy of strategic ambiguity about whether the United States would defend Taiwan against a Chinese attack. I hope WaPo would at the very least agree that ending strategic ambiguity is a good idea, though one cant be sure because the Board didnt take a position on this long-standing American failure. They just reported it.

The WaPo opinion would be a meh if it werent such a weighty issue. Instead its a really-really-concerned cringe. Concerned for our democracy, and concerned for the state of the free press in America.

One is hard-pressed to find any opinion at all in this so-called opinion-piece. Except the word unfortunately in its penultimate sentence, the Boards opinion is an astonishingly elisive recitation of selected facts that does more to obscure the China threat than explain it.

The Post lamely ends its commentary by saying that deterring Mr. Xi is a much more complex challenge than deterring Putin. Thats it? No more from one of the worlds top American newspapers of record on Americas biggest national security threat? When PLA tanks roll into Washington one day, I guess we can expect the Board to be more critical of scratches on their paint jobs, than of the end of history.

How could this be so?

The opinion fails to acknowledge WaPos conflicts of interest on China, for example the fact that since November 2016, the Post accepted over $4.6 million in paid advertising from China Daily, which is controlled by the Chinese Communist Party.

A China Daily newspaper box is with other free daily papers in New York on Jan. 20, 2021. (Chung I Ho/The Epoch Times)

Shouldnt political advertising by a totalitarian and genocidal country be illegal in any democracy that supports human rights, you say? Isnt it a form of violent hate speech? It would certainly contravene journalistic ethics (if the Post didnt officiously think it defined such ethics). Much more so when these millions pay for what appears to be regular WaPo articles (except for a small disclaimer) and are not acknowledged in the Posts general reporting on China.

Given the lack of light coming from The Washington Post on potential prescriptions against Chinas military threat, except that feeble glow given off by an old recluse of a sclerotic lava lamp that no longer undulates, I will here name a few prescriptions that are appropriate to countering the only two Chinese military threats identified by the Post: against Taiwan and the South China Sea. Well leave threats against India, Japan, and the United States until another day.

Declassify more information related to Chinas malign activities in the South China Sea and Taiwan. Sue China for its illegal occupation of South China Sea islands and fishing grounds in other countries EEZs. Impose Magnitsky sanctions against Chinese officials who are responsible for ramming, kidnapping, and killing of Philippine and Vietnamese fishermen. Establish an Asian NATO to counter China. Physically disrupt Chinas operations in the South China Sea. Economically sanction China for its Taiwan and South China Sea aggressions. At Taiwans request, build a U.S. and allied military base in the country. Provide an independent submarine-based nuclear deterrent for Taiwan, free of charge, with a thank-you note tied to the periscope that praises this brave little country for being the tip of the spear in the defense of global democracy.

Whats that you say, WaPo? That could threaten the more than $600 billion in annual trade with China, including by your own Jeff Bezos Amazon.cn at over $300 million in annual revenues?

Unfortunately, Amazons big business in China is another apparent conflict of interest that WaPo fails to mention, as is its agreement with the China-linked Berggruen Institute to produce its WorldPost maybe-real-opinions-but-one-cant-really-tell-because-it-seems-like-a-sketchy-paid-for-deal. One of the most recent Berggruen-produced opinions is titled, America has little to fear from a China-centered world.

How much is China Daily paying you, now, WaPo?

If all this sounds weird, startling, and new, its because the Washington Post and other mainstream media have for years ignored Chinas military and influence threats until its now almost too late. Please, dear reader, check out some of the links in this article. Youll learn more than you do from WaPos Board.

On China, and with the exception of Josh Rogin (the lightbulb at the bottom of WaPos lava lamp) and perhaps some other front-line journalists, The Post is therefore not a serious paper. It has for years lagged in its responsibility to provide adequate prescriptions for defending against the China threat. This in part explains (and is in part explained by) the corporate, swampy, and revolving-door nature of its eponymous city.

Democracy dies in darkness is the Posts wonderful motto. It almost brought a tear to my eye, when I first read it. Lets please live up to this on the China issue. Do it quick, because the sun is setting on democracy. When that happens, neither Bezos billions, nor WaPos so-called freedom of speech, will be worth a damn.

Anders Corr has a bachelors/masters in political science from Yale University (2001) and a doctorate in government from Harvard University (2008). He is a principal at Corr Analytics Inc., publisher of the Journal of Political Risk, and has conducted extensive research in North America, Europe, and Asia. He authored The Concentration of Power (forthcoming in 2021) and No Trespassing, and edited Great Powers, Grand Strategies.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Council of Economic Advisers Chair Cecilia Rouse talks with reporters at the White House in Washington on March 24, 2021. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

White House Economic Adviser Says Global Minimum Corporate Levy Needed to Offset Biden Tax Increase

Cecilia Rouse, chair of the Council of Economic Advisers, says the Biden administration continues to urge its trading partners to adopt a global minimum tax on corporations to offset the effects of President Joe Bidens proposed domestic corporate tax increase.

The idea is to make sure that corporations are paying their fair share, to button up some of the loopholes, which have meant more corporations were actually putting more money offshoreoff of U.S. soiland having a global minimum tax so that were working with the rest of our trading partners, so that were working with the rest of the world so that corporations are paying their fair share worldwide, Rouse told Fox News Sunday on May 2.

The Biden administrations appeal for international cooperation on the global corporate minimum tax rate is a bid to at least partially counteract any disadvantages that might arise from the presidents proposal to raise the U.S. corporate tax rate to 28 percent, a move panned by Republicans and business groups as hurting the competitiveness of U.S. companies and slowing wage growth.

The Biden plan tax hike calls for raising the corporate rate to 28 percent from 21 percent, proposes a new global minimum tax on American businesses, and creates a 15 percent tax on book income,' explained Alexander Hendrie, director of tax policy at Americans for Tax Reform, in a recent op-ed. These tax hikes would be devastating to American businesses and would see U.S. businesses pay a 32 percent rate after state taxes, one of the highest rates in the developed world.

Responding to a question about whether shifting the United States into one of the highest corporate tax regimes in the world would hurt U.S. businesses, Rouse replied: We do not want to be hampering corporations, but we do want to make sure that theyre paying their fair share.

Internationally, we dont want to be disadvantaged, so hes also working with other countries so that we have a minimum tax internationally so theres not a race to the bottom.

Biden said in April that adoption of a global minimum corporate tax rate would reduce opportunities for tax-rate arbitrage by U.S. corporations that reduce their U.S. tax burden by shifting profits to low-rate tax havens.

Ive also proposed a global minimum tax, which is being proposed around the world for U.S. corporations, of 21 percent, Biden said at a White House press briefing.

It means that companies arent going to be able to hide their income in places like the Cayman Islands and Bermuda, in tax havens.

The success of the initiative would rely on negotiating a 21 percent global minimum corporate tax rate with major economies. While negotiations on an international deal on minimum corporate tax rates have taken place for years, the drive gathered steam in early April after G-20 finance chiefs met virtually and pledged to reach a consensus on new rules by mid-year as part of a broader overhaul of the way international businesses are taxed.

Last week, the finance ministers of France and Germany said in a joint interview in Zeit Online that they support the Biden administrations idea of a global minimum corporate tax rate of 21 percent.

I, personally, have nothing against the U.S. proposal, German Finance Minister Olaf Scholz said, according to Zeit Online.

If that is the result of negotiations, we would also be agreed, French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire added.

After Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen earlier in April urged the adoption of a global minimum corporate tax rate, Sen. Pat Toomey (R-Pa.) predicted the proposal was unlikely to make much progress overseas.

Spoiler alert: This effort will likely fail and even if there is some sort of agreement, it will be non-binding because it is not a treaty, Toomey said.

He said Republicans should seek to reverse any corporate tax increase as soon as they retake control of Congress.
An employee shows the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine in New York City in a Dec. 21, 2020, file photograph. (Eduardo Munoz/Reuters)

WHO Approves Moderna Vaccine for Emergency Use

GENEVAThe World Health Organization has given the go-ahead for emergency use of Modernas COVID-19 vaccine.

The mRNA vaccine from the U.S. manufacturer joins vaccines from AstraZeneca, Pfizer-BioNTech, and Johnson & Johnson in receiving the WHOs emergency use listing. Similar approvals for Chinas Sinopharm and Sinovac vaccines are expected in the coming days and weeks, WHO has said.

The greenlight for Modernas vaccine, announced late Friday, took many months because of delays WHO faced in getting data from the manufacturer.

Many countries without their own advanced medical regulatory and assessment offices rely on the WHO listing to decide whether to use vaccines. U.N. childrens agency UNICEF also uses the listing to deploy vaccines in an emergency like the pandemic.

The announcement isnt likely to have an immediate impact on supplies of Modernas vaccine for the developing world. The company struck supply agreements with many rich countries, which have already received millions of doses.

In a statement Friday, CEO Stephane Bancel said Moderna was actively participating in discussions with multilateral organizations, such as COVAX, to help protect populations around the world.

Hes referring to a U.N.-backed program to ship COVID-19 vaccines to many low- and middle-income countries.

Japanese Health Minister Norihisa Tamura confirmed on Friday that the first doses of Modernas vaccine, expected to be approved in May, had arrived in Japan.

If Modernas vaccine is approved, it would be the second COVID-19 vaccine to be approved for use in the country.

Japan officially approved Pfizers COVID-19 vaccine in February this year as it steps up efforts to tame a reported third wave of infections in the run-up to the Summer Olympic Games.

Reuters contributed to the report.
A police officer gestures as he secures an area outside Beijing's Tiananmen Square (back) on World Press Freedom Day on May 3, 2020. (Nicolas Asfouri/AFP via Getty Images)

World Press Freedom Day Spotlights Deteriorating Media Environment in China, Hong Kong

The United States and the European Union marked World Press Freedom Day by voicing concerns about the continuing deterioration of press freedoms in China.

The United States condemns the use of partial or complete government-imposed internet shutdowns, among other tactics, to prevent the exercise of freedom of expression online and restrict the ability of independent journalists to serve the public, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a May 2 statement on World Press Freedom Day.

World Press Freedom Day, which was introduced by the United Nations General Assembly in 1993, is celebrated annually on May 3. One of the objectives of the day is to promote the fundamental principles of press freedom and address challenges to media freedom worldwide.

Blinken pointed to China, Turkey, and Egypt, and their imprisonment of the most reporters in 2020, citing data from the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ).

In December last year, the CPJ released a report naming China as the worlds worst jailer of journalists for the second year in a row; many had been arrested because of their coverage of the COVID-19 pandemic. One example was citizen journalist Zhang Zhan, who was sentenced to four years in prison for picking quarrels and provoking trouble, a common charge that the Chinese regime often uses to silence dissidents.

In China, many of the 47 prisoners are serving long sentences, or are jailed in the Xinjiang region without any charge disclosed, the CPJ stated.

EU foreign policy chief Joseph Borrell also pointed to Chinas deteriorating press environment in his statement on World Press Freedom Day.

I want to reaffirm my commitment and that of the EU to media freedom, which has unfortunately declined in many countries during the COVID-19 pandemic, Borrell wrote.

The Foreign Correspondents Club of China (FCCC), in its report published in March, documented how the Chinese regime used tactics that included coronavirus prevention measures to restrict foreign reporting in 2020. The report, based on a survey of its 150 members, concluded that media freedoms in China deteriorated significantly in 2020.

All arms of state powerincluding surveillance systems introduced to curb coronaviruswere used to harass and intimidate journalists, their Chinese colleagues, and those whom the foreign press sought to interview, FCCC said.

Forty-two percent of the 150 respondents said they were told to leave a place or were denied access for health and safety reasons when they presented no risk, in connection to reporting on coronavirus in China.

Several foreign reporters shared in the report how they were harassed or intimidated, including Francesc Canals, a correspondent at Spanish media Televisio de Catalunya.

In Wuhan coverage, and in Beijing, in reports that were not supposed to be sensitive, I was forced by locals, with the support of police, to delete data like street footage with no proper explanation. In Wuhan, I was asked to delete footage from my phone by a police officer, Canals said.

Press freedom in the Chinese-ruled city of Hong Kong has also deteriorated significantly in 2020. In a statement marking World Press Freedom Day, the Foreign Correspondents Club in Hong Kong (FCCHK) stated it is committed to defending press freedom in Hong Kong and across the region.

Journalists [in Hong Kong] have contended with a range of challenges, including new police limits on accreditation, the prosecution of members of the media, ever-increasing pressure on the editorial independence of RTHK, concerns over visas, and an attack by thugs on a newspaper printing plant, FCCHK wrote.

The printing plant of the Hong Kong edition of The Epoch Times was attacked by hammer-wielding intruders on April 12; its the same facility that was vandalized in November 2019, when four masked individuals set a fire inside the plant. Its widely believed that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is behind both attacks.

On May 3, the Hong Kong Journalists Association (HKJA) reported that the citys press freedom index for journalists reached a record low, dropping to a score of 32.1 in 2020 from 42 in 2013. The index was based on a survey of 367 journalists between Feb. 16 and March 21.

Eighty-five percent of the journalists attributed the citys declining press freedom to the Hong Kong governments suppression. Meanwhile, 69 percent stated that the increasing emphasis of one country over two systems by the central government officials had made them uncomfortable in reporting dissenting voices.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 09:57:35|Editor: huaxia

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As COVID-19 still rages across the globe, artists in Latin America use colorful graffiti to praise frontline health workers and encourage people to continue their fight against the pandemic, bringing a moment of smile to the overshadowed world.

Produced by Xinhua Global Service
/ contributed photo

Connecticut is the first state in the country to fully vaccinate 50 percent of its adult population against COVID-19, a milestone Gov. Ned Lamont on Monday called an extraordinary achievement that allows the state to continue toward a post-pandemic normalcy.

The state reached 50.3 percent of all residents age 18 and older, according to data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, with 1,428,645 people fully vaccinated. New Mexico and South Dakota are just behind the Nutmeg State at 49.9 percent and 49.8 percent, respectively.
EDWARDSVILLE  A Collinsville man was charged Thursday with two counts of meth-related felonies.

Terry L. King, Jr., 36, of the 100 block of Country Lane in Collinsville was charged April 29 with unlawful possession with intent to deliver methamphetamine and unlawful methamphetamine conspiracy, both Class X felonies.

The case was presented by the Pontoon Beach Police Department.

According to court documents, on March 22, King was found to be in possession of between 15 and 100 grams of methamphetamine with the intent to deliver, and had also conspired with Lynn L. King, to deliver the meth to Alicia Shaffer.

Bail for King remains set at $200,000.

Other felony charges filed April 29 by the Madison County States Attorneys Office include:

 Terrell L. Griffith, 39, of the 600 block of Lewis and Clark Boulevard, Godfrey, was charged with aggravated domestic battery, a Class 2 felony. The Madison County Sheriffs Office presented the case. According to court documents, on April 13, Griffith intentionally strangled his girlfriend, Melissa Parsakis. Bail was as previously set

 Christina A. Aday, 52, and Scott D. Jones, 50, of the 600 block of South Jasmine Street in McLeansboro, were each charged with unlawful possession of methamphetamine with the intent to deliver, a Class X felony. The Madison County Sheriffs Office presented both cases. According to court documents, on April 21, the pair were found to be in possession of between 100 and 400 grams of methamphetamine with the intent to deliver. Bail remains as previously set.

Reach reporter Charles Bolinger at 618-659-5735
Mt. Pleasant police officers are investigating an armed robbery that was the subject of a public safety notification sent out by Central Michigan University public safety over the weekend.

It is believed to have taken place in the parking lot of Panera Bread, said Autume Balcom, spokeswoman for the Mt. Pleasant Police Department. No additional information was available because the investigation is ongoing.

That includes the specific location, although the alert sent out from CMU public safety said that it took place off-campus in the area around Broomfield and Mission streets.

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According to a public safety alert sent out at 11:43 p.m., a man wearing a bandana and a face mask with a skull on it had fled from the scene.

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During the seven days preceding Sunday, there were an average of 26.1 new COVID-19 cases per day in Isabella County. During the three days preceding Monday, the county's per-day average was half that.

Thirty nine new confirmed cases of COVID-19 were reported in Isabella County on Monday from Friday through Monday, a daily average of 13 confirmed cases. It brings the county's cumulative total to 5,038, with 83 deaths.

The seven-day figure comes from a county-level dashboard hosted by the Brown University School of Public Health, which includes both confirmed and probable cases.

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Seven day trends are a better way to read tea leaves than three-day trends, but one of those goes in favor of a slowing outbreak. The seven-day average number of cases reported at Central Michigan University, in the double digits not too long ago, has fallen to 2.29.

The most recent surge in cases has been described largely youth driven, with the much greater at-risk elderly age groups protected by vaccines.

There is one reason for pause, however. The county's seven-day average in positive diagnostic tests is still a very high 13.6 percent. A high rate of positive test results is believed indicative to either disease spreading undetected or too little testing being done.

The state as a whole has fallen to 10.8 percent.

Gratiot County's seven-day diagnostic positive result rate was even higher at 14 percent.

An additional 17 confirmed cases were reported there over the weekend, a three-day average of 5.7 per day. Cumulatively, 3,007 people in Gratiot County have tested positive for COVID-19, with 108 of them dying.

Clare County continues to run below the state as a whole in spread metrics, including its seven-day diagnostic test positivity rate, which was 10.4 as of Sunday.

An additional 10 confirmed cases were reported in Clare County on Monday, a daily average of 3.33 over the three days of the reporting period, for a cumulative total of 1,909. Seventy three Clare County residents have died from COVID-19.

Elsewhere in mid-Michigan, seven new deaths were reported, with new and cumulative cases and deaths as follows:

In Gladwin County, six new confirmed cases were reported for a cumulative total of 1,815, with 47 deaths;

In Mecosta County, four deaths were reported for a total of 30 and an additional seven cases were reported for a cumulative total of 2,816;

In Midland County, one death was reported for a total of 75 and an additional 35 new cases for a cumulative total of 6,384; and,

In Montcalm County, two deaths were reported for a total of 100 and an additional 24 cases were reported for a cumulative total of 4,927.

Statewide, 160 new deaths were reported since Friday for a total of 17,771 and another 8,466 cases were reported for a cumulative total of 849,420.

READ MORE:

Mt. Pleasant police investigating weekend armed robbery Mt. Pleasant police officers are investigating an armed robbery that was the subject of a public safety notification sent out by Central Michi

McLaren-Central Michigan searching for new oncologist A team of oncologists is taking care of cancer patients at McLaren-Central Michigan's Karmanos Morey Cancer Center following the resignation o

Shepherd honors Don Brown for 50 years of firefighting When Shepherd firefighters needed help battling a fire at the local grain elevator, Don Brown pitched in and found his calling.

Mt. Pleasant city manager announces upcoming retirement Nearly seven years after being named Mt. Pleasant city manager, Nancy Ridley is retiring.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 10:26:07|Editor: huaxia

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BEIJING, May 3 (Xinhua) -- Wang Xiaoying and Wu Jianlian, locals of Xuwen County, south China's Guangdong Province, buried themselves under a sea of pineapples to promote the sweet treat via livestreaming and short videos all through the month of March, high season for the prickly fruit.

Xuwen, located on the southernmost tip of the Chinese mainland, boasts volcanic soil that is at least tens of thousands of years old, which, combined with a low altitude and abundant rainfall, contributes to a conducive environment for pineapples.

Dubbed the largest plantation base in China, the county grows one out of every three pineapples in the country, registering an annual output of nearly 700,000 tonnes.

While output of the fruit faces no issues, the same cannot be said of sales. Answering China's call of vitalizing its rural areas and trying to cure sales stagnation, Wang and Wu began creating live broadcasts and videos that have proven to be successful.

The field purchase price per kilo rallied in March, punching through the eight yuan barrier (about 1.24 U.S. dollars), the highest recorded price in over three decades. This uptick left farmers, including Wu, smiling from ear to ear.

A LINGERING CONUNDRUM

The tropical fruit is not always sweet, as farmers have found themselves stuck at the rough end of the pineapple from time to time.

Sales have been a long-standing issue over the years, though reasons vary from problematic cultivation to a mismatch between supply and demand.

Wang, a 26-year-old native and the daughter of pineapple farmers, has grown up seeing dull sales and financial loss constantly hovering over pineapple fields.

At the height of COVID-19 in 2020, another dull season was in the making, threatening produce in various areas, including Xuwen.

In order to help promote the sweet local specialty, Wang, then an anchor at a local television station, hosted a livestream in February of 2020. Tens of thousands of buyers tuned in, and more than 1.65 million jin (825 tonnes) of pineapples were traded. And Wang rose to fame.

LIVE-STREAMING

Wang marveled at the chemistry between livestreaming and produce marketing and realized that "expertise is imperative."

She and Wu made a perfect duo. Almost three decades into the trade and running pineapple plantation and trading market in Xuwen, Wu knows the industry chain well.

Defying the scorching sun and pineapple's stiff, jagged leaves, the pair, nicknamed "pineapple sisters," livestreamed amid lines of crops.

Their livestreams have gone viral, attracting as many as 40,000 potential buyers to shop online simultaneously, a spectacle never seen in brick-and-mortar markets.

Local farmers have become webcast savvy, too. Once loathing to be filmed, they now scramble for a few shots in live shows, according to Wang.

"They can rake in somewhere between 5,000 to 6,000 yuan from one mu of fields on average," she said. "More and more well-to-do families have built themselves multi-story mansions and shelled out for private cars."

BIG DATA

Showing a steep learning curve, the local government quickly moved in. They aspired to make Xuwen and its pineapple trade a jewel in the crown of high-quality agricultural development in Guangdong Province, and even the country.

They devised a digitally-equipped mechanism spanning production and markets. In the multidimensional mechanism, big data technology is employed to track developments in production and markets, said Huang Jiatuan, an official in charge of agricultural and rural affairs in the county. Marketing events are hosted by farmers or buyers in a reciprocal manner, where streamers like Wang and Wu have an important role to play.

The mechanism was put into operation in 2019. Postal Savings Bank of China (PSBC), which operates a sprawling financial network in China's rural areas, saw a total of 680 million yuan in new deposits recorded in its 25 outlets in Xuwen during the year. Qujie Township, the main pineapple production zone in the county, contributed more than 100 million yuan.

In 2020, the town deposited another 365 million yuan in the local outlet of PSBC despite the COVID-19 epidemic.

Since the inception of the mechanism, the industry has not seen sales return to the lulls it experienced in previous years, said Huang, though the price has fluctuated.

Riding on past success in pineapple sales, Wang now promotes more native fruits in her webcast studio, hoping to contribute more to her hometown's bright future. Enditem
Haywood Countys first newspaper, The Waynesville News, was established by owner and publisher W.S. Hemby on January 16, 1884. It was only four pages and printed on a six column format. A copy of the first edition is on display in The Mountaineer conference room. The Waynesville News was sold to J.P. Herren in 1887 but lasted only a few months.

In 1886, The Daily News was published by the News Publishing Company. There is no record of when it ceased but it is believed to have lasted less than two years.

The next paper to appear was the Waynesville Courier, the first ancestor of The Mountaineer. It began publishing on February 8, 1888. A copy of the first edition is stored in the Duke Archives. Frank Vaneil was the Courier editor in 1888; followed in 1889 by P.S. Ray. Around 1890 Jesse Daniel Boone and Z.V. Rogers took over and by 1891, Boone was probably the sole owner.

In 1902, Boone sold the paper to G.C. Briggs. Briggs modernized the paper by purchasing a linotype machine that formed whole words from molten lead as fast as the operator could type. In 1906, Briggs, an innovator, decided to go daily. After two years he concluded the town could not support a daily and the Daily Waynesville Courier reverted back to a weekly in 1907. That same year W.C. Allen became a 50 percent partner but sold his interest back to Briggs two years later.

In 1912, Briggs sold the paper to R.B. Wilson and Harry Hall. Hall sold his half to Wilson in 1914 and left to take over the Haywood Enterprise, a competing paper. Financial strain caused the Enterprise to fold in 1915.

The Courier soon felt the crunch of poor economic times and was sold at public auction two years later to previous owner Jesse Daniel Boone for $1400. Boone had started another paper in 1913, The Carolina Mountaineer. It was the first time Mountaineer was used in the name of a Haywood County paper. After purchasing the Courier at auction in 1917, Boone consolidated the two weeklies into The Carolina Mountaineer and Waynesville Courier. In 1925 Boone sold the now profitable paper to W.A. Band. Band changed the name to the Waynesville Mountaineer later that year.

In 1930, the paper moved from its old office on Church Street to the building on Main Street owned by the law firm of Morgan and Ward. The newspaper office was on the first floor, which is now the advertising and composing departments, and the press was in the basement. The lawyers occupied the second floor where our news department is today. Band sold the Waynesville Mountaineer to Wilbur T. Betts and Thomas M. Seawell later that year.

By the middle of 1931, Betts had moved away and Seawell was running the paper alone. It began to fall on shaky financial ground. Two employees, W. Curtis Russ, the business manager and ad salesman, and Paul D. Deaton, a linotype operator, leased the paper from Betts for one year to see if they could make it profitable. They assumed control of the paper on Nov. 5, 1931 and purchased it from Betts and Seawell on July 1, 1932.

In 1933, Deaton sold his interest in the paper to Marion T. (Buster) Bridges. The partnership of Russ and Bridges lasted until 1979. It was the longest tenure of any editor and publisher. In 1925, the papers name was changed to The Mountaineer. Waynesville was dropped from the name to coincide with the opening of an office in Canton and to reflect more countywide news coverage. The Mountaineer converted to offset printing in the 1960s when they purchased a Goss press and installed it in the basement.

In 1979, the Mountaineer was sold to the Daniels family, owners of the News and Observer in Raleigh. Jack Andrews was named publisher. In 1980, Ken Wilson, previously publisher of the Mount Olive Tribune, a News and Observer subsidiary, was hired as publisher.

In 1990, Adelaide Daniels Key, daughter of Jonathan Daniels, long time editor of the News and Observer, purchased The Mountaineer in Waynesville, N.C., Haywood Countys newspaper of record, The Enterprise in Canton N.C. and The News Record in Marshall N.C., the Madison County newspaper of record, from the family chain. Her son, Jonathan Key, was hired in 1991 as General Manager. In 1994, the financially strapped Enterprise was merged with The Mountaineer to create The Enterprise Mountaineer and the News Record was sold.

Jonathan Key was named publisher of The Mountaineer on January 1, 2000 and purchased the Mountaineer Publishing Company from Adelaide D. Key in February 2002. The word Enterprise was dropped from the masthead of the newspaper because The Mountaineer had become the dominant name the paper was referred to across the county.

As technology progressed, the Mountaineer Publishing Company followed. Our first online publication, MPC Online, was launched in the mid 90s. MPC shuttered the pressroom and sold its presses in 2011 and began printing in Bristol, Tennessee due to the limitations of their press and the demands of customers for more color in their printing. The old pressroom is now the Wells Event Center.

The Mountaineer Publishing Company continues to grow and innovate as we launch new products to meet market demands. The Mountaineer Website, The Guide, The Biltmore Beacon, our subsidiary paper in Asheville, and their corresponding websites and apps are example of new products we have created.
A 39-year-old woman was found dead April 30 off U.S. Highway 550 near Trimble, north of Durango, after what Colorado Parks and Wildlife offici
More than a year after its originally scheduled opening date, Divine Child High School is ready to raise the curtain on the Andrew Lloyd Webber musical, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, with select graduate cast members returning to perform in a private Saturday matinee.

The musical follows the Old Testament story of Joseph, son of Jacob, who is sold into slavery in Egypt by his jealous brothers. He subsequently interprets dreams for the Egyptian pharaoh, predicting an upcoming famine and instituting rationing. When his brothers travel from Canaan (modern day Israel) to Egypt for grain, they fail to recognize Joseph, setting the stage for a reunion and forgiveness.

The cast is significantly smaller than the original contingent of 140 planned for the March 2020 show, with the 2021 production featuring 33 high school and 18 elementary school performers.

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Three seniors lead the production, with Casper Dickey as Joseph, and Sydney Porada and Maddy Woods as the narrators.

Connor Godin plays Jacob, with Claire Reinhardt as Pharaoh and Marco Thompson as Potiphar and Rachel Rudzinski as Simeon.

Robert Bush is the orchestra and technical director, with Paul Abbott as musical director and Elisa Noeske as the director.

The show includes favorite songs, including, Any Dream Will Do, Go, Go, Go, Joseph, Jacob and Sons, Josephs Coat, One More Angel in Heaven, the Elvis-themed Pharaohs Story, Potiphar and Those Canaan Days.

Bush said it has been great seeing the theater come alive during rehearsals.

We have been waiting for this moment for over a year, and cannot wait to perform this show for our students and our community, he said. Joseph is a fun, colorful and interactive show that is sure to bring a smile to our audiences faces, even under a mask!

Bush said that while the show feels different with social distancing, with actors singing and dancing while masked, the joy it has brought to the participants has made the endeavor worthwhile.

Dickey, who plays Joseph, said he was happy to be back on the stage.

It has been very different, but necessary, to take precautions, he said. I am overjoyed to be back on the stage with my friends, doing what we love, after such a long time, and I cant wait to share this show with a live audience.

Porada, one of the narrators, said it has been challenging rehearsing with masks on, especially when you cant see others expressions.

Its a new experience, but it is a joy to be back onstage, she said. My role, as the narrator, has been a blast, and I am looking forward to breaking the fourth wall and interacting with the audience, too.

Woods, also a narrator, said that while rehearsing with masks and social distancing was challenging, it was worthwhile, since it got them back on the stage.

It was so sad when things were canceled last year, she said. I am happy to be back!

Woods said her role is fun to play, and she enjoys engaging with an audience.

Rudzinski said she is also looking forward to performing in front of a live audience.

Rehearsing during a pandemic has been a little chaotic but fun, she said. Being able to sing without masks, and interacting with facial expressions are what I miss the most.

Rudzinski said that even with social distancing, it is great to be back in the theater.

Sign up for our daily morning newsletter Click here and then look to the right side for the sign up to the morning newsletter for The News Herald, and you can get the top headlines de

I have been happier since we started rehearsing, she said.

COVID-19 safety measures have been instituted, including the implementation of a plasma air filtration system in the auditorium. Admission is limited to 140 people per show, with six feet of separation between seating groups, staggered arrival times and masking requirements enforced.

The show runs 7:30 p.m. May 19, 20, 21 and 22, with a 2:30 p.m. Sunday matinee, at the high school, 1001 N. Silvery Lane in Dearborn. Tickets are $10 for students and $12 for adults. To order, go to dchstheater.ludus.com.

Firefighter and wife seriously injured in motorcycle crash; donations sought to help pay bills A pleasant springtime trip to Florida on their motorcycle turned tragic for a Downriver firefighter and his wife, who were involved in a serio

+3 Woodhaven's Uncle Sam Jam shut down two years in a row due to pandemic concerns One of the biggest aspects of Woodhavens Uncle Sam Jam is also one of the biggest reasons it has been canceled for a second straight year  t

Wyandotte police believe man arrested on drug charges intended to commit burglary Based on his criminal record, his behavior and where he was located, Wyandotte police believe a man they arrested on drug charges had intentio
A pleasant springtime trip to Florida on their motorcycle turned tragic for a Downriver firefighter and his wife, who were involved in a serious accident on Sunday.

Chris and Suzette Davenport were returning home from vacation when they were involved in a crash in Florida. According to Ted and Ashley Copley, who have organized a GoFundMe fundraiser for the Davenports, a vehicle pulled out in front of them and they were forced to lay down their bike.

Both Suzette and Chris were air-lifted to a local hospital, the Copleys said in their post. Both suffered severe injuries that will require multiple surgeries.

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Suzette is a property manager and Chris is a full-time firefighter in Riverview. He also serves as a volunteer firefighter in Grosse Ile Township and works as a part-time firefighter with the Woodhaven Fire Department.

Riverview Fire Chief Ronald Lammers said Chris Davenport has been with his department for over seven years.

Lammers said he was aware that the couple were going on vacation to the Florida Keys and would be gone for about two weeks.

They had it all planned out, Lammers said. They were in Georgia, on their way down, when I talked to him. They were due back here on May 10.

From what Lammers has been able to ascertain, they were struck by an SUV. He said laying down a motorcycle in anticipation of a crash is a maneuver to avoid making direct contact with a vehicle, but said it often results in serious injuries to a drivers and passengers legs, due to being dragged on pavement.

As of Monday afternoon, Lammers said he had not been in touch with any of the couples family members, but has been getting updates from fire officials in both Grosse Ile and Woodhaven.

Due to privacy laws, Lammers did not wish to disclose too much information about their injuries, but said he was told that Chris and Suzette suffered severe leg injuries and both underwent surgery.

I want them to know we are thinking about them, and that they are in our thoughts and prayers, Lammers said. When they are stable and are able to make the trip back here, I have reached out to the other chiefs and we want to be able to accommodate them. At this point, we dont know if they will be able to fly back, or will need medical transport.

The Davenports reside on Grosse Ile. In addition to working as a firefighter in the three local fire departments, Chris also serves on the Downriver Mutual Aid Dive Team and is the EMS coordinator in Riverview.

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The Copleys declined to comment, but posted on their GoFundMe page that although Chris and Suzette have insurance, their medical bills are still anticipated to be astronomical.

Any help would be greatly appreciated, they stated.

All donations received will be distributed to the Davenport family through the Grosse Ile Firefighters and Goodfellows Association.

To donate, visit gofund.me/b836cdfc.

+3 Senior housing project divides Wyandotte community; issue to be decided after election While its not uncommon for housing developments to take time to come to fruition, one proposal in Wyandotte has taken longer than most.

+6 Riverview Community School District earns Best of the Best Teacher honors Whether its a big smile from a student, a compliment from a parent or a thank you from a graduate, there are many ways families can acknowled
Kokomo, IN (46901)

Today

Rain showers early with scattered thunderstorms arriving for the afternoon. High 81F. Winds ESE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%..

Tonight

Partly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 67F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 11:04:52|Editor: huaxia

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AUCKLAND, New Zealand, May 3 (Xinhua) -- China and New Zealand had given invaluable support to each other in the past years, and can foster new growth engines in health care, economy and climate change, said Chinese ambassador to New Zealand Wu Xi at the China Business Summit 2021 on Monday.

Delivering her keynote speech to the summit, Wu Xi talked about the long history of friendship between China and New Zealand.

"The Chinese people will always remember old friends such as Rewi Alley, Kathleen Hall and James Bertram, for their contribution to China's revolution and construction. Thanks to concerted efforts by both sides, our relations have maintained healthy and stable development for a long time. We have offered each other invaluable support in fields such as pandemic prevention and economic revitalization, and maintained sound coordination and cooperation in international affairs," said Wu.

The protocol on upgrading the FTA will create new prospects for mutually beneficial cooperation, she said, adding that with the improvement of development quality and the scale of the Chinese economy, China and New Zealand can actively explore and foster new growth drivers in health, aged care, education, e-commerce, climate change, science and technology and other fields.

The ambassador reiterated multilateralism and global cooperation in the post COVID-19 era.

"The pandemic has proven once again that all mankind is a whole and shares common well-being and woe. The only way out is to uphold true multilateralism and build a community with a shared future for mankind," said Wu.

She also talked about China's development strategy at the summit.

"Today, China contributes about 30 percent to world economic growth. China has had complete victory in eliminating extreme poverty, making a genuine contribution to global poverty alleviation," she said.

"We will base ourselves on a new stage of development, follow a new philosophy of innovative, coordinated, green, open and shared development, foster a new development paradigm, promote high-quality development in an all-round way, and work with other countries to build an open, inclusive, sustainable and beautiful world that enjoys lasting peace, universal security and common prosperity", said Wu.

The China Business Summit is an annual summit attended by political leaders, industrial representatives and academia to reflect on New Zealand-China bilateral relations. Enditem
While Brownstown Township Police Chief Jeff Watson sees the impact increased scrutiny is having on policing, he said what people are seeing on nighttime television is not reflective of views held by township residents.
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It is not an exaggeration to say that when the governors of Nigeria's 36 states in June last year resolved to declare a state of emergency on rape following a spate of sexual violence against women, that not few Nigerians heaved sigh of relief. It was gathered that the meeting was ostensibly necessitated by the raping and killing of a University of Benin student, Uwaila Vera Omozuwa, who was attacked in a church in Benin City, Edo State capital, and consequently died on May 27, 2020.

Following the meeting by the governors under the auspices of the Nigeria Governor Forum (NGF), call was made on all states to set up a sex offenders register and to sign on to two federal laws which punish rape and violence against women and children.

The Forum also invited the leadership of the Police to brief the governors on efforts they are making to tackle sexual and gender-based violence in Nigeria, NGF chair Kayode Fayemi said in the statement.

While pressure was being mounted on government at all levels to enact laws that has the effectiveness of instilling fears in rapists, another girl, Barakat Bello, was raped and killed during a robbery attack in her home in Ibadan on June 1, 2020, according to human rights group Amnesty International.

Against the backdrop of the rampant incident of rape and kill across the country at the time, Nigerians took to the streets to demand urgent action on rape and justice for victims while Amnesty called on the Nigerian government to declare a "national crisis" on rape.

There is no denying the fact that Nigerians were further assured that the somewhat sexual pandemic will completely be nipped in the bud. That was as President Muhammadu Buhari reiterated the government's commitment to fighting gender-based violence and assured citizens, and that the police were working to ensure justice in recent cases.

"I am particularly upset at recent incidents of rape, especially of very young girls. The police are pursuing these cases with a view to bringing perpetrators of these heinous crimes to swift justice," Buhari said in a televised Democracy Day address to the nation"

"I wish to assure all our women of this administration's determination to fight Gender-Based Violence through the instrumentality of the law and awareness creation," he added.

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki in a statement, said, Ive ordered the Nigeria Police Force to thoroughly investigate the circumstances that led to the death of Miss Vera Uwaila Omozuwa, a 100-level student of the UNIBEN.

The police have been mandated to identify, arrest, and prosecute anyone found culpable in her death. The Violence Against Persons (VAP) Law is in effect in our state.

Using this law, we would ensure to investigate what exactly transpired and deal decisively with those found complicit in the dastardly act, whoever they might be.

To my view, it appears the governments; both at the State and Federal levels have not done enough to protect women from Rapists as incidents of Rape are by each passing day been recorded with Rapists unprecedentedly on the prey.

In Edo, during the mournful time, there were protests demanding justice for the deceased, a lot of which cascaded into anti-rape calls largely on social media. From politicians to showbiz personalities, Twitter was awash with calls for justice and support for women.

Protesters clad in black, most of them wearing face masks as part of coronavirus protocols besieged the premises of the Edo State police command headquarters demanding action be taken swiftly.

Former Senate President, Bukola Saraki in a Twitter Post stated, I strongly appeal to our law enforcement agencies to leave no stone uncovered in finding the perpetrators of this heinous act and bringing them to justice.

Leader of the RCCG, Pastor Adeboye in a tweet said: All I can do at this time is to pray for the family of Omozuwa and do everything possible working with relevant authorities to bring the perpetrators to book.

I and members of my Family condemn this act strongly and urge everyone to stay calm as we are already looking into the matter and cooperating with the police to establish the facts of the shocking incident.

Against the backdrop of the foregoing assuring words, many Nigerians might have thought that the challenge would be addressed; even before now. But alas! The same manner of sexual crime has been replicated in Akwa Ibom State as the killing of a missing Akwa Ibom woman, Iniobong Umoren, by a man who lured her with a job offer is now trending both on social media platforms and in traditional media. As gathered, the police in Akwa Ibom State, on Sunday, confirmed that the missing woman was raped, killed, and buried in a shallow grave by a suspect who is already in the police custody. The police spokesperson in the State, Odiko MacDon, identified the suspect as 20-year-old Uduak Akpan, said to be a serial rapist.

The brutal rape and murder of the Iniobong, is seriously disturbing the public mind in the country. Her killing has also reinforced the impression that Nigeria has become an unsafe country for women. There has been a predictable public outcry against this hideous and heinous crime, coupled with the demand for death penalty for the rapists. In fact, not few Nigerians are demanding stricter anti-rape laws, and stringent and expeditious punishment of the perpetrators.

To my view, I think it is high time we eschew rhetoric in response to this issue that is somewhat becoming a sexual pandemic by the day. Governments should enact a law that is punitive enough to deter unscrupulous and randy males from killing our women and girls all in the name of sexual urge. Enough is enough!
Oakland County is moving forward with the drafting of a strategic blueprint to help the county meet the needs of its over 200,000 residents age 65 and over.

Last week, the county board of commissioners approved $61,700 in one-time funding to create the Oakland County Blueprint for Healthy Aging. The funding will cover the costs associated with the research, public survey, designing, and printing of the blueprint.

The board's Healthy Aging Ad Hoc Committee will serve as the oversight body for this initiative and has recommended that the Area Agency on Aging 1-B (AAA 1-B) develop the "data driven" blueprint, which will serve as a proposal to:

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Identify challenges, concerns and unmet needs of older Oakland County residents

Describe opportunities presented by the aging population

Present a series of recommendations for collective action that will be undertaken by a yet-to-be formed community-level task force(s) to implement the priority recommendations

Beaumont adds walk-in COVID vaccination clinics this week for ages 16 and older Beaumont Health is providing five additional walk-in clinic days this week to make it easier for people to get vaccinated.

According to July 2019 U.S. Census Bureau data, Michigan's 65 and older population was around 1.76 million, or 17.7 percent of the state's population. Around 217,500 of those seniors lived in Oakland County, or 12.3 percent of the state's senior population.

The state's 65 and older population has been increasing every year since 2011 going from 1,388,609 to 1,765,401 in 2019. Oakland County's 65 and over population has been increasing every year since 2000, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS).

As more and more Michiganders get older and die, the U.S. birth rate remain at a record-low, according to the CDC's National Center for Health Statistics.

In 2019, the U.S. general fertility rate was 58.3 births per 1,000 females aged 15 to 44, a record low rate for the nation. In Michigan, the birth rate was 57.4 births per 1,000 females aged 15 to 44 (107,886 total births) while the death rate was 989.4 per 10,000 residents.

Percent change among 65 and older population: 2010 to 2019 Percent change among 65 and older population: 2010 to 2019

Percent change among 18 and under population: 2010 to 2019 Percent change among 18 and under population: 2010 to 2019

At the national level, a majority of Americans agree that government should help people fulfill a widely held aspiration to age in their own homes, not institutional settings, according to the late March survey from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research.

The poll found that 88% of the 1,114 adults surveyed would prefer to get long-term care services as they age at home or with loved ones. Just 12% would want to receive care in a senior community or nursing home.

The Area Agency on Aging 1B, a Southfield-based nonprofit agency, provides home care and community-based services and programs for over 730,000 seniors across the six-county region, including in Oakland County.

Between 2020-2022, the organization is planning to spend will $23.56 million in state and federal dollars to support 25 programs that service older adults. Those programs include: Meals on Wheels, in-home care programs, senior transportation, wellness classes, programs for grandparents raising grandchildren, and an information and referral telephone line that helps older adults and their families navigate long-term care and find local resources.

The county will soon be entering into a contract agreement with the Area Agency on Aging 1B for services to be able to create the document.

- The Associated Press contributed to this report
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One case of Indian variant in state; none in Oakland County
A parole hearing accessible to the public is scheduled to be held this month for a man convicted of killing an Oakland University student who he met through an escort service in 1995.

Kenneth Tranchida, 67, was a 41-year-old drifter when he killed Tina Biggar, 23, of Farmington Hills whose body was found in Southfield about a month after she went missing on Aug. 23, 1995. Besides working for the escort service, Biggar, a psychology major, had been researching prostitutes and AIDS for a class project at OU.

Court records show Tranchida admitted killing Biggar, explaining that she had financial problems so he decided to put her out of her misery and to end it for her. Biggar died from blows to the head and neck.

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Tranchida pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and being a habitual offender. He was sentenced to life in prison in 1996. A few years later he attempted to withdraw his plea, but that was turned down by the state Court of Appeals.

Tranchidas parole hearing will be held via Microsoft Teams on May 18, beginning at 11 a.m. To access, go to https://tinyurl.com/4r3bp8mf. Anyone interested in watching it must confirm attendance by May 14 by calling 517-335-1736 .

Tranchida is housed at Muskegon Correctional Facility.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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Trial is scheduled for a Lake Orion man accused of providing drugs to a group of friends, resulting in fatal overdoses for three of them at an Oakland County hotel.

Jury selection is set to begin Oct. 5 in Oakland County Circuit Court for the case against Lorenzo Keith Brabo, 20. Brabo is charged with three counts of delivering a controlled substance causing death for the July 29, 2020 incident at the Baymont Inn and Suites on North Opdyke Road in Auburn Hills. Suffering fatal overdoses were brothers Caleb Kiessling, 20 and Kyler Kiessling, 18, as well as Sophia Harris, 17.

Prosecutors maintain Brabo supplied drugs that were believed to be Percocet tablets but were laced with fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid.

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Brabo overdosed along with the other three who were pronounced dead at the scene. He was unconscious but breathing when found by police officers called to the hotel, and revived with Narcan. He spent the next several days at C.S. Mott Childrens Hospital in Ann Arbor, where police investigators interviewed him twice.

Brabo remains in the Oakland County Jail, with bond set at $500,000. He faces up to life in prison if convicted.

The trial will be held before Judge Daniel OBrien.

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+2 Parole hearing this month for killer of OU student, escort Tina Biggar A parole hearing accessible to the public is scheduled to be held this month for a man convicted of killing an Oakland University student who 
Take a few minutes to catch up on some of your local news:
The Rochester Hills man missing since Friday has been located and was hospitalized, according to the Oakland County Sheriff's Office.

At about 4:30 p.m. Sunday, someone in a Shelby Township bar recognized him and phoned police.

"The Shelby Township police officer transported the missing back to his residence in Rochester Hills where a deputy met them," the sheriff's office said. "It was determined that he needed to be taken for medical and mental health treatment. The missing was transported to the hospital and a petition was completed."

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From earlier: The Oakland County Sheriff's Office is seeking help finding Raymond Norman Champagne, a 68-year-old Rochester Hills man with a traumatic brain injury who has been missing since Friday afternoon, according to a press release.

Champagne, who lives in a townhouse at the 400 block of Kensington Drive in Rochester Hills, was last seen leaving there on Friday, possibly riding on a dark-colored 10-speed bicycle.

He last spoke with his caregivers around 4 p.m. on Friday, then left, leaving behind his cigarettes and cell phone, which the caregivers said was unusual, the sheriff's office reported.

Sheriff's deputies were not alerted to the fact that he was missing until 11:30 p.m. Friday.

Police conducted an extensive search of the area on Friday and Saturday, with the sheriff's K-9 unit, aviation unit, dronem, and search and rescue team attempting to find Champagne.

They also knocked on doors and and checked local hospitals, motels and hotels but didn't find him.

Champagne's wife died in March, with a memorial service held on Friday in Royal Oak; therefore, Royal Oak police searched the cemetery there but didn't find him.

"Please be on the lookout for Mr. Champagne, who has been missing for more than 24 hours," Sheriff Michael Bouchard said in the release.

"If you spot him, please call 9-1-1 immediately. An extensive search today was unsuccessful."

Police described Champagne as a white male with green eyes, balding with a gray or brown ponytail, 6' tall and about 170 pounds.

He is supposedly wearing a blue flannel shirt, jeans and white and blue Nikes.

Contact police if you have any information on Champagne's whereabouts.

+3 Royal Oak will bloom again for Mothers Day with thousands of flowers, people Royal Oak in Bloom, a nearly three-decade Mothers Day tradition in the city, is returning after being sidelined by the COVID-19 pandemic last year.

Police: Teen steals Jeep after test drive, totals it in crash A 16-year-old male from Detroit who allegedly took a vehicle on a test drive in Troy recently, then stole it and totaled it in a crash, was ar
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Letters to the editor: Columnist confused on abortion; Gun deaths a health crisis; Get vaccinated for the 'greater good'
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 12:08:44|Editor: huaxia

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LOS ANGELES, May 2 (Xinhua) -- Three people were killed and 27 others injuried after a suspected smuggling vessel overturned Sunday off the coast of the U.S. city of San Diego, authorities said.

The accident took place at about 10 a.m. local time (1700 GMT) off the coast of the Point Loma peninsula near the Cabrillo Monument, which is San Diego's only National Park, according to the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department.

Lifeguards received the initial notification of the vessel in question experiencing trouble via VHF radio from a tow vessel that was in the area. The reporting party indicated that one person was on board, said the department in a release.

Multiple agencies responded to the scene immediately. Officials said that lifeguards responding to the area found a cabin cruiser, which had broken apart against the rocks off the coast, and 30 people were in the water.

Jeffery Stephenson of the San Diego sector of U.S. Customs and Border Patrol told reporters that officials had "every indication" from their perspective that "this is a smuggling vessel used to smuggle migrants into the United States illegally."

"We haven't confirmed the nationality of people involved. But our agents are with many of them at the hospital and the man who we believe was the operator," he added.

"The ocean is inherently unsafe. The reality is crossing the border illegally is unsafe no matter the method," Stephenson noted, slamming smugglers who treat people as commodities.

"They don't care about the people they're exploiting. All they care about is profit to them," he said.

Park officials of the Cabrillo Monument said on Twitter after the incident that the tidepools of the park "are temporarily closed" and they "will post an update later today when the area reopens."

San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria said on Twitter that the city's firefighters, lifeguards, and police assisted the U.S. Coast Guard and Port of San Diego Harbor Police in the rescue effort.

"I ask San Diegans to keep the boat's passengers in your prayers," he noted.

Four days earlier, the U.S. authorities detained 21 Mexican nationals after a panga boat was stopped off about 11 miles west of the Point Loma shoreline, reported KGTV, an ABC-affiliated television station.

"We've seen a dramatic increase in the number of maritime smuggling attempts recently," Aaron Heitke, chief patrol agent of the U.S. Border Patrol's San Diego Sector, was quoted as saying by the news outlet.

The U.S. Border Patrol has documented 157 maritime smuggling events in the San Diego area in this fiscal year, KGTV reported, citing officials. Enditem
Chalong Hospital closed amid COVID concerns

PHUKET: Chalong Hospital has been closed for cleaning and its staff quarantined and tested for COVID-19 following a 74-year-old woman outpatient testing positive for the virus after she visited the hospital for dizziness but was later sent home.

COVID-19Coronavirushealth

By The Phuket News

Monday 3 May 2021, 02:53PM

UPDATE: Chalong Hospital Director Suchart Nichawanna announced in a revised update released this afternoon (May 3) that Chalong Hospital is expected to re-open on May 10.

Four patients who were receiving treatment at Chalong Hospital and four relatives who had been in close contact with them have been transferred to Dibuk Hospital, where they will be tested, Dr Suchart said.

Low risk people are asked to self-monitor for signs of infection at home, he added.

Chalong Hospital Director Suchart Nichawanna announced the temporary suspension of services in an announcement dated today (May 3) and posted online just before 1:30pm.

The 74-year-old Thai woman was admitted to the Emergency Accident Department at Chalong Hospital for dizziness at 11:01am Wednesday last week (April 28), Mr Suchart explained the announcement.

Doctors treated her symptoms, prescribed medication and she was sent home, he added.

Two days later, at 3:02pm last Friday (Apr 30), the woman returned to the outpatient department with complaints of dizziness and diarrhea.

The woman was admitted and assigned a hospital bed at 5:36pm.

By Saturday, however, the woman had developed a fever, shortness of breath and difficulty breathing, so doctors ordered a lung X-ray, examined her for COVID-19 and moved the woman to an isolated room.

Doctors were informed at 10:33pm last night that test results had confirmed the woman was infected with COVID-19.

As a result of the incident, many medical personnel at Chalong Hospital were at high risk exposure, Mr Suchart noted in his announcement today.

Patients admitted to the hospital, doctors, nurses and hospital personnel have been quarantined and tested for COVID-19, he added.

Therefore, it is necessary for Chalong Hospital to temporarily suspend services to all patients. We apologize for the inconvenience. If there are any changes, [the public] will be notified immediately, Mr Suchart said.
Evaluating response initiatives

THAILAND: Less than a month after the second wave of the pandemic subsided, Thailand faced a tsunami of COVID-19 infections in April and early May, posing a threat to economic stability.

CoronavirusCOVID-19economicshealthtourismtechnologyVaccine

By Bangkok Post

Monday 3 May 2021, 01:15PM

The third wave of COVID-19 has affected locals livelihood, even as businesses were adjusting to the economic impact of the first and second outbreaks. Photo: Somchai Poomlard.

While countries with high inoculation rates such as the US have moved past rigid measures, the Thai government has stumbled in providing vaccination.

The state also faces fund disbursement challenges related to the B380 billion budget allocated to combat COVID-19.

The tighter virus control measures announced last week in Thailand put more pressure on the government to help those in urgent need, as it has come under fire for its failure to manage the health crisis.

RAPID REMEDY REQUIRED

Nonarit Bisonyabut, a senior research fellow at the Thailand Development Research Institute, said without a third wave of COVID-19 infections in the country, he would have disagreed with the governments cash handout scheme.

The third wave is serious, setting highs for new infections and deaths. We are still unsure whether or when the government will be able to contain the outbreak, he said.

People who cannot work from home are the hardest hit. The cash handouts help with their short-term financial hardships and are considered essential.

However, Mr Nonarit suggested this round of cash handouts be given to a specific target group who deserve special attention from the government given its limited budget.

The new round of handouts should concentrate primarily on state welfare cardholders and underprivileged people who could not register for assistance, such as those without smartphones or bedridden patients, he said.

FTI chairman Supant Mongkolsuthree says B240bn is not sufficient to deal with all the impact from three waves.

Combined, this group comprises 16-17 million people.

Mr Nonarit said the government is projected to spend about B60bn a month if it pays B3,500 a month to this group in need.

Of the governments budget of B380bn available to mitigate the impact of the pandemic, cash handouts are projected to be sustainable for six months.

The cash handout is projected to last for four months if the government intends to offer cash to all eligible recipient groups estimated at 33 million people under existing aid measures.

Mr Nonarit referred to epidemiological evidence that suggests this wave of infections will last for around 4-6 months.

In addition to outlining a clearer target group, it is imperative for the government to come up with clear guidelines for use of the cash handouts, he said.

Mr Nonarit proposed the government allow the handouts to be used to purchase goods and services online, promoting social distancing and preventing congestion at small retailers.

He acknowledged the cash handout schemes alone are insufficient to shore up the countrys economy during the pandemic, suggesting the government desperately needs to support local businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to curb rising unemployment.

Mr Nonarit said the government could easily distinguish affected businesses by comparing records of their corporate income tax or value-added tax payments from 2019, before the pandemic emerged, with those from 2020 when the outbreak began to spread.

He also advised setting up certain criteria such as a percentage of recorded decrease in sales to determine which businesses should be allowed to participate in the state aid or subsidy programmes.

MORE AMMUNITION ANTICIPATED

The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) predicts the state may eventually borrow more money when the B240bn allocated by the government for economic restoration is taken into consideration.

This portion of funds is part of the B380bn package.

I believe the government must request more loans or it risks the economy slowing down further, said FTI chairman Supant Mongkolsuthree.

He said the B240bn would not be enough to deal with all the impacts caused by the three waves of the pandemic.

But the government must first stop the spread of the virus and restore confidence by vaccinating people against COVID-19, said FTI vice-chairman Kriengkrai Thiennukul.

Even though authorities have not re-imposed draconian lockdown measures, including a curfew, most people have already entered into their own self-lockdown mode, restricting themselves to their homes as they do not dare go out for fear of contracting the virus, he said.

This is not the right time to stimulate the economy. We need to control the outbreak first, said Mr Kriengkrai.

Tassapon Bijleveld, executive chairman of Asia Aviation, the largest shareholder of Thai AirAsia, said the keys to economic recovery are sufficient vaccine procurement and a timely financial remedy for those in need.

The priority is to secure vaccines from manufacturers by all means, no matter how high prices surge, and inoculate people as soon as possible, he said.

If the government commits to vaccinating 300,000 people a day, it should execute that plan by prioritising groups to receive the jabs first to minimise potential risk, said Mr Tassapon.

In addition to health personnel on the frontline, teachers should be the next priority for inoculation to allow schools to resume in-person classes, he said.

Once teachers are vaccinated, it reduces the risk exposure for students at school, who could transmit the virus to their family members when they return home.

To complete these urgent tasks, the government needs to seek a higher budget from additional loans, as the remaining budget from the B1 trillion loan decree allocated last year is likely to fall short, said Mr Tassapon.

If new loans do not destabilise the economy, the government should not hesitate to secure them to help reduce the financial burden of those suffering from the impact of the pandemic, he said.

Existing measures are not strong enough to save SMEs from peril, particularly the debt moratorium scheme that does not waive monthly interest, said Mr Tassapon.

As long as operators have to pay monthly interest, this means a higher debt burden because interest will accumulate while their business suffers, and the principal remains the same.

He suggested the government extend more practical financial relief measures, such as providing grace periods for both monthly instalment payments and interest for a year to give people breathing space.

Large companies like [Thai AirAsia] are not as much of a concern because we have more capabilities to maintain our business, said Mr Tassapon.

But SMEs and those living hand-to-mouth need an urgent remedy.

HELP THE SMALLER FISH

Somchai Lertsutiwong, chief executive of Advanced Info Service, Thailands biggest mobile operator by subscribers, said the governments coffers are still ample and should be used to help people affected by the pandemic.

The people affected should receive government financial aid every time strict measures are issued to control the pandemic, particularly those without bank accounts or those working in an informal business, he said.

The financial assistance needs to be directly distributed to the affected people, not through project-based schemes, to ensure the help is effective, said Mr Somchai.

He said people breaking rules set to curb the pandemic must be severely punished.

Moreover, the government and businesses must heed lessons learned from last years outbreak and come up with approaches for how to deal with the ongoing crisis. Bigger organisations should lend a hand to smaller ones, helping them to survive, said Mr Somchai.

The big fish must help the small fish, not eat them, he said.

The pandemic has taken a toll on every sector and it is imperative for every organisation, particularly the large and powerful ones, to step up and cooperate, said Mr Somchai.

He suggested the government provide sufficient doses for up to 70% of the countrys population, in line with guidelines recommended by the World Health Organization.

Mr Somchai said the government should offer clear measures to support SMEs so they can recover.

Phichet Rerkpreecha, chief executive of Line Thailand, said the government should lend a hand to the private sectors push to provide vaccinations.

It could be helpful if the government can find ways to motivate or incentivise private companies to provide vaccines for their employees, he said.

The more vaccines that can be privately funded, the more people we can vaccinate and the faster Thailand will recover.

Mr Phichet pointed to vaccination as the key to economic recovery. Although vaccine distribution is a challenge, we need to work together as a nation to do this right.

TECH-LED BACKING FOR JABS

He said communication plays an important role in this crisis.

Precise information in an organised and timely manner will be the key to managing the publics expectations, said Mr Phichet.

Collaborations with the private sector will increase the effectiveness of vaccine distribution and communications.

The Public Health Ministry introduced the Mo Phrom (Doctors are ready) Line official account (OA) to enable people to register and reserve a place in the queue for vaccination.

The booking facility on the platform began on May 1.

He said technologies can provide solutions to manage the situation.

There are ready to use tools available from many platforms. I am sure all the platforms are willing to assist the government in overcoming this crisis, said Mr Phichet.

Patama Chantaruck, vice-president for Indochina expansion and managing director of IBM Thailand, said many countries still face unprecedented levels of infection due to virus mutation.

The public sector and companies need to rethink their use of shared spaces to keep employees and citizens safe, she said.

Even with approved vaccines, the need remains to scale proactive testing and health credentialing in a cost-effective and decentralised way.

Through decentralisation, individuals can control their health data using trustworthy credentials to support access to shared spaces, said Ms Patama.

She said health credentials, such as certification of recent COVID-19 testing or vaccination status, can play an important role as countries return to normalcy.

Access to these credentials can be scaled and secured in a transparent way that preserves privacy, said Ms Patama.

Dhanawat Suthumpun, managing director at Microsoft (Thailand), said the pandemic has led to faster digital adoption.

In Thailand, the public sector needs greater agility to handle highly unpredictable situations, and this can be achieved with a digital-first mindset, said Mr Dhanawat.

Technology can be used to develop a holistic, end-to-end view of vaccine management, in a similar way to supply chain management.

He said people can reduce the need for physical contact by using an online platform for remote interaction between patients and health workers, while chatbots can relieve the human workload and increase efficiency in sharing information with the public.

Data has become the new oil in our world, and it is time to make the best use of it by sharing and integrating data from various sources, said Mr Dhanawat.

The resurgence of COVID-19 has brought back widespread remote working, and digital productivity continues to grow more important for business continuity. Cybersecurity will continue to be a major issue as people, data and devices are quickly and widely decentralised to keep businesses moving.

AS GOOD AS IT GETS

Kulaya Tantitemit, director-general of the Fiscal Policy Office, defended the governments economic measures to cope with the pandemic-induced crisis, noting they are identical to those applied in many other countries.

Thailands measures match the countrys available budget and economic conditions, said Ms Kulaya.

State measures to combat the impact of the outbreaks are extensive and not significantly distinctive from the aid measures introduced by other countries, she said.

All countries have rolled out measures covering fiscal and monetary components to help relieve the hardships of their people and businesses, said Ms Kulaya.

Likewise on social assistance, most countries have similar policies in the form of cash transfers, food coupons, utility fee payment reductions or delays, she said.

In terms of social insurance, there has been unemployment compensation, leave without pay and labour market intervention via a state subsidy to employers to retain employees and upgrade their workers skills.

The Thai Chamber of Commerce applauds the government for its spending efforts to restore the economy, even though the financial injections cannot offset the damage caused by the pandemic.

The pandemic is estimated to have cost Thailand B1.195trn last year, with the government fighting back using its B1trn loan decree, leading to a shortfall of nearly 200bn.

Chamber chairman Sanan Angubolkul believes the government funnelled money to the right groups of people - low- and high-income earners - in a timely manner.

The state actions were not slow. The government launched relief measures during the 2020 lockdown and introduced stimulus packages in September and October, he said.

Some measures, such as the co-payment subsidy scheme, have continued this year.

Government attempts to deal with unemployment were also admirable, said Mr Sanan, with the unemployment rate last year standing at 1.5%, or around 700,000 to 800,000 people.

The government provided the right cures, but the economy faced a high level of damage, he said.

The third wave of COVID-19 dealt a further blow to Thailand, and the authorities must work to stimulate the economy again, as soon as next month, said Mr Sanan.

He said the budget of B380bn to cope with the pandemic impact is sufficient because the damage caused by the outbreak should not exceed 400bn if the government can get disease transmission under control this month.
No MorProm vaccination registration for Phuket

PHUKET: People in Phuket wanting to register to receive a state COVID vaccination must register through the Phuket Must Win web portal. Any registrations through the national MorProm channel will be cancelled by officials.

COVID-19Coronavirushealth

By The Phuket News

Monday 3 May 2021, 02:13PM

The announcement confirming that people in Phuket are to register through the www..com web portal to receive a state vaccination. Phuket registrations through MorProm will be cancelled. Image: PR Phuket

The move for Phuket to be excluded from the MorPromnational registration channel via the MorProm app or via LINE was confirmed by Phuket officials through an announcement posted on the Ministry of Interior Phuket offices official COVID-19 information Facebook page, Phuket Anti-COVID19. late Saturday night (May 1).

Phuket people must register to be vaccinated ONLY at www..com, said the announcement.

The registration can be made by everyone  operators and persons  those who are older than 60 years old are included, it added.

Those who have already registered do not need to register again, please wait for a SMS informing you to choose date, time, and place to get injected.

Those who register through MorProm and receive an appointment date to be vaccinated, the Phuket Public Health Office (PPHO) will CANCEL the appointment for vaccination at hospitals. Please register on www..com again, the announcement confirmed.

No reason was given for excluding Phuket from the national MorProm vaccination registration, which is open to everyone else in the country.

However, it does follow independent confirmation by the ThaiVisa website that foreigners elsewhere in Thailand who either have been issued a pink ID card issued by the Thai government to foreigners or who are registered with the Social Security Office being able to register to be vaccinated through the MorProm registration system.
Phuket drug raid nets 3.2kg of ya ice

PHUKET: A series of drug raids in Phuket resulted in the arrests of three people with a total of 3.2 kilogrammes of crystal meth (ya ice) and 5,105 pills of methamphetamine (ya bah) seized.

drugscrimepolice

By Eakkapop Thongtub

Monday 3 May 2021, 11:02AM

The arrests were the result of a joint operation by officers from the Phuket Provincial Police, Thalang Police, Cherng Talay police and Kathu police, explained a report by the Phuket Provincial Police.

However, the report did not explain when the raid was conducted.

Nonthawat Man Daenthai, 19, was arrested at the restroom of the Shell petrol station on the bypass road and found to be in possession of 3.2kg of ya ice and 4,800 pills of ya bah.

Police then searched a unit at The Royal Place condominium in Moo 1, Kathu, and seized a white Honda PCX motorbike as evidence.

Nonthawat was taken to Kathu Police station and charged with possession of a Category 1 drug with intent to sell.

Other arrests reported included that of Nuannong Koi Palirat, 41, who was found with 49.15g of ya ice and 305 pills of ya bah at a house in Moo 6, Kathu.

Police also seized a Honda Wave motorbike, B4,800 in cash and two ATM cards as items of evidence.

Nuannong was taken to Kathu police station and charged with possession of a Category 1 drug with intent to sell.

A third arrest reported was that of Natthachai Bas Chananpong, 26, who was found with 0.11g of ya ice at house in Moo 7, Rassada.

Natthachai was taken to Phuket City Police Station and charged with possession of a Category 1 drug.
Rawai sea gypsies targeted in pro-active screening

PHUKET: Phuket health officials conducted a COVID-19 proactive-screening campaign at the sea gypsy village in Rawai yesterday (May 2) amid concerns that the village could become an epicentre of local infections.



By The Phuket News

Monday 3 May 2021, 04:19PM

In total, swab samples were collected from 300 of the villagers to be subjected to RT-PCR tests, reported the Phuket office of the Public Relations Department (PR Phuket).

Present for the occasion were Phuket Governor Narong Woonciew, Rawai Mayor Aroon Solos, Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation (PPAO, or OrBorJor) President Rewat Areerob and Phuket Provincial Public Health Office (PPHO) Chief Dr Kusak Kukiattikoon.

Present to carry out and oversee the mass testing were medical staff and management from Rawai Municipality health office, Phuket Provincial Hospital, Bangkok Hospital Siriroj and the PPHO.

The campaign was conducted due to the close proximity the sea gypsies live in and the high interaction with other members of the community due to the seafood market set up on the fringe of the village, PR Phuket noted.

Dr Kusak explained that investigation by disease control officers had led them to learn that sea gypsies also often interacted with people from outside the Rawai area.

In the past, there were rumors that caused panic among the general public, he said.

The results of the RT-PCR tests were expected to be known later today (May 3), he added.

INFECTIONS UPDATE

The mass-testing campaign in Rawai ahead of the PPHO confirming 15 new cases of COVID infection on the island just yesterday (May 2), bringing to 438 the total number of people in Phuket officially recognised as infected with COVID-19 since Apr 3.

The report, marked as accurate as of 6pm last night, also marked that in addition to the 438 cases currently officially recognised, one was transferred for treatment.

The one case has already been publicly explained by officials to have been transferred to Bangkok for treatment. However, it has yet to be explained why the one case was being kept separated from the main number reporting the total number of confirmed infections since Apr 3.

The report did note that of the 438 cases, 216 were receiving hospital care and that 223 had already been discharged from hospital care.

The PPHO also reported that 2,594 people arriving onto the island were screened yesterday (May 2).

The report noted that 464 arrivals were screened at the airport, along with a further 1,534 people screened at the Phuket Gateway and 596 people checked at the Phuket Check Point at Tha Chatchai.

So far a total of 31,419 people arriving on the island have been screened on arrival since Apr 22, reported the PPHO.

Of those, 22 arrivals were confirmed as infected with COVID-19, giving a success rate of 0.07% of identifying COVID-positive arrivals.

Meanwhile the PPHO continues to publish timelines of movements in public by people now confirmed as infected with COVID-19. The latest timelines can be seen here.
Upbeat Patty ready for home challenge

GOLF: Major winner Patty Tavatanakit is ready to establish herself as a strong contender for this weeks Honda LPGA Thailand after enjoying a tied-third finish at the HSBC Womens World Championship in Singapore yesterday (May 2).

Golf

By Bangkok Post

Monday 3 May 2021, 02:45PM

Patty Tavatanakit in action at the HSBC Womens World Championship. Photo: HSBC Womens World Championship

Patty, whose Thai name is Paphangkorn, carded her best score of the week with a final-round seven-under-par 65 to finish two shots back of South Korean champion Kim Hyo-Joo, who mounted a late fightback to win her fourth LPGA Tour title with a sparkling 64.

Im already confident with my game ever since I won the ANA Inspiration last month. I feel like I can compete out there even more. But I dont want to get too ahead of myself, said Patty.

Obviously theres a little bit more pressure because its my home country and everyone wants me to play well. But whats important is that after seeing what I can do out here, I know Ill be able to carry that form over to next weeks tournament. And thats going to be important, said Patty.

Despite the strict health safety protocols due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the 21-year-old is pleased she is still able to travel and compete in Asia again.

Its been great so far. I had a lot of good food in Singapore. I just feel like we didnt get a chance to explore the city which is a bummer. But if anything, Im just really happy to be back in Asia and play again, said Patty.

Patty is also looking forward to her homecoming, having been away from Thailand for more than a year already.

Its exciting. I get to go back home and play in my home country. The last time I was in Thailand was over a year ago! said Patty.

The Honda LPGA Thailand will be held at Siam Country Club in Chon Buri.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 13:18:05|Editor: huaxia

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by Yang Shilong, Matthew Rusling

WASHINGTON, May 2 (Xinhua) -- Vaccine hesitancy and spreading variants are causing growing concern for the U.S. battle against the COVID-19 pandemic that has killed over 575,000 Americans over the last year.

Health experts sounded the alarm as the country is ramping up efforts to vaccinate its population under President Joe Biden's administration.

More than 144 million Americans have received at least one COVID-19 shot, accounting for 43.6 percent of the population, and 30.5 percent of the population is fully vaccinated, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The seven-day average cases, hospitalizations and deaths from the virus in the country have been going down from their highs in recent weeks.

However, the latest CDC estimates using statistical modeling indicated that about 35 percent of all Americans have been infected with COVID-19 over the last year, with 114.6 million infections accumulated from February 2020 to March 2021, including 97.1 million with symptomatic illnesses and 5.6 million hospitalizations.

Some of the discrepancy in the number of cases could be because some people are asymptomatic and fail to get tested, the CDC said, or because even if someone does have symptoms, they may not seek medical care or a test to confirm their COVID-19 status.

To suppress the spread of the virus, somewhere between 70 percent to 85 percent of the U.S. population needs to be immune in order to reach herd immunity, experts said.

The "biggest challenge" for the Biden administration "will be reaching the 20 percent of people who say they don't want to be vaccinated," Brookings Institution Senior Fellow Darrell West told Xinhua, adding, "That number is down from a few months ago, but still is a large group of people."

A new CNN poll showed that a quarter of American adults said they would not try to get a coronavirus vaccine, and Republicans were the group most likely to say they would not seek a shot. Some 44 percent of Republicans expressed that view, compared with 28 percent of independents and 8 percent of Democrats. Resistance to vaccination was the strongest among younger Republicans.

"In the first few months, we were capturing the part of the population that really wanted these vaccines," infectious diseases expert Dr. Mati Hlatshwayo Davis told CNN on Saturday. "But now we've reached the 'wait and see' crowd and the outright 'I don't want it' crowd."

Davis said officials now need to double down on their efforts to address two key challenges of "vaccine confidence" and "access" to vaccines.

The number of willing COVID-19 vaccine recipients is rapidly diminishing and supply will exceed demand in the coming weeks, according to a recent analysis by nonprofit health policy group Kaiser Family Foundation.

"While timing may differ by state, we estimate that across the U.S. as a whole we will likely reach a tipping point on vaccine enthusiasm in the next 2 to 4 weeks," the Foundation said in its report published on April 20.

"Once this happens, efforts to encourage vaccination will become much harder, presenting a challenge to reaching the levels of herd immunity that are expected to be needed," it said.

Eleven states have reported a decrease in shots given for three weeks in a row or more, according to a CNBC analysis of CDC data on Sunday.

The "slow erosion of vaccine confidence unfolding over the last two or more months is cause for concern," the University of Washington's Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation wrote in its latest COVID-19 briefing.

A slowdown of vaccine demand could complicate the Biden administration's efforts to combat the pandemic as virus variants may continue to mutate and spread, the experts warned.

The highly transmissible variant which was first identified in Britain has already become the dominant one in the United States.

"The more virus and viral replication, the virus has more chances to mutate and this means additional opportunities for variants to evolve," CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky said at a White House COVID-19 briefing on Friday.

Meanwhile, federal and local governments are under pressure to get their economies reopened amid uncertainties.

Darren, a high school teacher outside of Washington DC who declined to give his full name as he was not authorized to speak to the press, told Xinhua that his students often look like they just rolled out of bed when he sees them online, and he faults parents, the school itself, and teachers' unions for slowing the pace at which the nation's students return to school full time.

At Darren's school, students are attending in person once per week, although that's voluntary, and he said only one or two students actually show up.

Darren said he believes this year out of school could hurt children's long-term academic success, as well as their mental and physical health, quoting the opinions of leading experts. Enditem
@rachelravina on Twitter

Rachel Ravina is a journalist covering news and lifestyle features in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania. She grew up in Blue Bell and graduated from Penn State. She's also a news enthusiast who is passionate about covering topics people want to read.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 14:20:39|Editor: huaxia

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BEIJING, May 3 (Xinhua) -- China's Ministry of Finance has allocated 57.4 billion yuan (8.88 billion U.S. dollars) to subsidize local water conservancy projects in 2021, up 3.1 percent from the previous year.

The funds aim to help resolve weak links in water conservancies in rural areas.

To reduce damages caused by floods and droughts, 45 percent of the funds, or 25.9 billion yuan, will be used to reinforce small dilapidated reservoirs, harness small and medium-sized rivers, and enhance the prevention of mountain torrents.

Better efforts will be made to control over extraction of groundwater in northern China.

The funds are expected to raise water use efficiency and upgrade water-conservation facilities in medium-sized irrigation areas, while soil erosion and drinking water safety in rural China will also be addressed. Enditem
Please note The Sun Chronicle is providing this story and all of our local coronavirus coverage for free so that all readers have access to this important information about the pandemic. Please visit our dedicated coronavirus coverage page for more stories. If you'd like to support our mission, please subscribe.
ALTON  The Main Street United Methodist Churchs Honduras Mission Team will host its 2nd Annual Perennial Plant Sale May 7-8 at 3707 Coronado Ave., Alton, in support of next summers mission trip.

Sale hours are planned 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, May 7 and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 8.

Last years sale was a great success for us and we received so many compliments that we decided to make it an annual event, said Greg Gelzinnis, mission leader for Team Honduras 2022. The sale will take place outdoors, but everyone is asked to follow COVID-19 mask guidelines and social distancing protocol.

Mike Short said the group has nearly four times as many plants as last year  approaching 2,000 plants  and will feature allium, astilbe, bee balm, bleedingheart, brunnera, coreopsis, daylily, hosta, iris and other unique varieties. Most will be available for $5 per plant. Cash, checks and Square payments will all be accepted. Plant sale patrons are asked to not block neighbors driveways  .

Proceeds from the sale will go towards construction expenses for the second floor of a church in the village of San Miguel in El Paraiso, Honduras that the team helped begin building during their first trip to Honduras in 2005. Teams from the church have been doing mission work in Honduras every other year since 2005 and are planning their ninth trip in June 2022. COVID-19 concerns have canceled their planned trip for this year.

While we all were disappointed that we were not able to go this summer, we just felt that there were still many circumstances beyond our control to go safely, said Gelzinnis.

Team Honduras meets at 7 p.m. the first Monday of the month at Main Street UMC, 1400 Main St., Alton. For more details contact Gelzinnis at 618-550-9291.
CARLINVILLE  Macoupin County residents can now pay property taxes in four installments instead of two.

It will be more affordable for taxpayers to have four installments instead of two, and in my opinion, reduce delinquencies and additional fees, said Madison County Treasurer Roger Anderson. Also, having four installments for our taxpayers will also be compatible for our schools in Macoupin County.
JERSEYVILLE  A Colfax man has been charged with burglary and theft recently by the Jersey County States Attorneys Office.

Cody L. Wells, 28, of Colfax, was charged April 19 with burglary, a lass 2 felony; and theft, a Class 4 felony.

According to court documents, on April 11 Wells allegedly broke into a building in the 1200 block of Miller Lake Drive, and took tools, a signed Dale Earnhardt Jr. card, Spiderman comics and other memorabilia valued at less than $500.

Bail was set at $75,000. Wells has previous arrests this year for drug, weapons, and credit card fraud charges.

Other felony charged filed recently by the Jersey County States Attorneys Office include:

 Lacey L. Randolph, also known as Lacey L. Steinkuehler and Lacey L. Benson, 37, of Granite City was charged April 23 with driving under the influence of alcohol and driving under the influence of drugs, both Class 2 felonies, and driving while drivers license is revoked. According to court documents, on April 22 Randolph allegedly was driving a 2014 Ford F0150 on Illinois 16 eastbound from St. Marys Church under the influence of alcohol, amphetamine and/or methamphetamine. She has a prior conviction for similar crimes in Jersey and Greene counties in 2003. It was also noted her drivers license had been revoked. Bail was set at $25,000.

 Christopher M. Cherry, 35, of Jerseyville, was charged with retail theft, a Class 3 felony, and obstructing a peace officer, a Class A misdemeanor. On April 22 Cherry allegedly took a 32-inch television, and numerous clothing and food items from the Jerseyville Walmart, 1316 S. State Street. He also withheld information from a Jerseyville Police Officer. Bail was set at $20,000.

 Mary E. Garner, 35, of Jerseyville, was charged April 19 with unlawful possession of methamphetamine, a Class 3 felony; unlawful possession of controlled substance, a Class 4 felony; and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia, a Class A misdemeanor. On April 17 Garner allegedly was found to be in possession of less than five grams of methamphetamine, less than 15 grams of heroin/fentanyl, and a glass pipe. Bail was set at $15,000.

 Angel J. Gettings, 28, of Jerseyville, was charged April 19 with unlawful possession of methamphetamine, a Class 3 felony, and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia, a Class A misdemeanor. On April 17 Gettings allegedly was found to be in possession of less than five grams of methamphetamine, and a glass pipe. Bail was set at $15,000.

 Kelsey S. Chandler, 29, of Jerseyville, was charged April 22 with unlawful possession of methamphetamine. On April 22 Chandler allegedly was found to be in possession of less than five grams of methamphetamine. Bail was set at $10,000.

 Tyler G. Stierley, 32, of Jerseyville, was charged April 23 with unlawful possession of methamphetamine. On April 22 Stierley allegedly was found to be in possession of less than five grams of methamphetamine. Bail was set at $10,000.
SCRANTON  A Scranton firefighter and two residents were injured Monday as crews worked to extinguish a smoky blaze in the citys West Side that left nine people without a home.

About 10:28 a.m., firefighters were called to 416-418 19th Ave. for reports of smoke and fire. Firefighters had the blaze under control an hour later, though Assistant Fire Chief Jim Floryshak said one firefighter was transported to an area hospital. He did not release further details on the firefighters injury.

Scranton Fire Chief John Judge said later the firefighter, whom he declined to identify Monday, was evaluated at the hospital and released. That firefighter fell while trying to enter the second floor of the burning building. Two residents, whose names were also unavailable Monday, were checked out for smoke inhalation and burns, though Judge said their injuries were not life-threatening.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation, but authorities believed it started in a bedroom on the buildings second floor, Judge said.

Floryshak said the fire on the second floor already appeared to have spread to the buildings third floor by the time they arrived. Crews rushed to attack the blaze from the interior of the building, but the conditions forced them to evacuate and quell the flames from the outside. Heavy fire damage was apparent throughout the building, which housed two families. Part of the roof collapsed.

This was a very difficult fire, Floryshak said, praising the departments efforts to bring it under control. Unfortunately, it was ahead of us and the risks that we were taking, they were too high. ... So thats why we had to pull everybody out and go defensive.

One of the residents, Janice Albizu, 22, awoke in her apartment in 416 19th Ave. just as the fire seemed to spread.

I head a lot of screaming next door, she said.

Then smoke started coming through the cracks in the doors. After she escaped, she sat on the sidewalk across the street as crews worked to extinguish the fire and wondered about what comes next for her. She had just moved there within the last few months.

The Red Cross was assisting two families, including six adults and three children, according to spokeswoman Lisa Landis.

The fire Monday was also the first day on the job for a new hire at the Scranton Fire Department. Firefighter Kyle Saldonis, 27, had been sitting at the kitchen table in the departments headquarters going over some of his new responsibilities when the alarm sounded. This was what he had trained for.

I went right to it, Saldonis said.
A pair of incumbents and three newcomers hope to secure a place on city council when the city sheds the financially distressed designation it has carried since 1992.

Of the five council seats, three are up for grabs this year. Five candidates in the May 18 primary election, all Democrats, are each vying for one of three Democratic nominations to appear on Novembers general election ballot.

The candidates include incumbent Councilmen Kyle T. Donahue and Tom Schuster, both former Scranton school directors; former Scranton and Lakeland Superintendent William F. King; certified nurse midwife Heather Mecone; and drug and alcohol counselor Charles Wasko.

Bringing different perspectives and priorities to the race, all hope to build on the progress represented by Scrantons impending Act 47 exit, slated for January.

Donahue, elected to his first term in 2017, touted the progress of recent years but said more must be done to modernize Scrantons tax structure and achieve long-term financial stability.

A member of Mayor Paige Gebhardt Cognettis tax policy working group, Donahue called for creative solutions to alleviate the hefty tax burden city residents and business owners bear. The possible imposition of a city hotel tax  which would generate revenue from room rentals  and a nonresident earned income tax  paid by those who work but dont live in the city  could help reduce Scrantons reliance on property and wage taxes paid by residents, he said, acknowledging both would take work to enact.

I think when you talk to everybody (the biggest issue) is taxes, but the reason its taxes is because you look around and you see the state of your roads, you see the state of the parks, and people think ... were paying these taxes but were not getting anything in return, said Donahue, who vowed to work to continue improving city infrastructure, neighborhoods and parks if reelected.

Wasko, seeking a council seat for the first time, expressed a similar sentiment about city taxes.

If we made change tomorrow and we start to at least show something tangible for what theyre paying (in) taxes ... people are going to be content, he said. They dont feel like theyre getting (any) bang for their buck right now.

Like other candidates, Wasko hopes to avoid city property tax hikes in the coming years. His priorities include strategically deploying financial resources to improve roads and infrastructure, fighting blight and maintaining public safety, among others. He vowed to work collaboratively with city officials and stakeholders to improve Scranton absent any political motivations.

When people want change, they have to stop talking about it and they have to make change, Wasko said, echoing advice he often gives as a professional drug and alcohol counselor. I think thats exactly what this city needs.

Mecone, whod bring a background in health care to local government, said she went into that field to improve lives and help the underserved. That desire to help people is partly what motivated her run for council, she said, noting her interest in social justice issues, promoting diversity and addressing poverty in the city.

I really believe in sort of a community-government approach, she said, emphasizing the importance of public input in decision making. I think I would advocate for more of that kind of a model. ... We have so many diverse people here with a wide variety of ideas. Why not utilize some of those ideas and hear peoples voices?

Moreover, Mecone said the city must make adequate investments in roads, sidewalks, streetlights, street signs and other infrastructure, as well as efforts to make for more walkable communities. She also emphasized the importance of attracting new environmentally friendly industries to grow the tax base and provide family-sustaining jobs, and said shed push for more payments in lieu of taxes (PILOTs)  payments to the city from nonprofit organizations exempt from property taxes.

Schuster, the races other incumbent, hopes to win a full term after being appointed to fill a council vacancy in early 2020. He pointed to his experience in city government, including his tenure on the school board, arguing hes always worked to efficiently deploy taxpayer funds.

Part of the council that last year significantly amended Cognettis proposed 2021 budget to shrink spending, Schuster said he was an integral part of keeping that budget tight  a trend he said should continue.

We have some budget shortfalls that have been projected for the next few years and I think starting from right now we need to ... be working on those budget shortfalls so they dont grow, Schuster said, referencing projections prepared by the Pennsylvania Economy League, Scrantons state-appointed financial recovery coordinator.

By proactively working to relive pressure on future budgets, Schusters goal is to avoid future tax hikes.

After more than 34 years of public school service, the vast majority of it in the Scranton School District, King said hes ready to serve the city in another way.

One of the most significant decisions officials will face moving forward, King said, is how the city strategically deploys the estimated $69.9 million in federal relief funding its due under President Joe Bidens American Rescue Plan. If permitted under federal guidelines, King said hed like to use a portion of the funding to attack blight, improve parks, strengthen neighborhoods and support small businesses citywide.

I just think its important that we have good, safe, clean neighborhoods for our kids to grow up in and ... really to raise families in, King said.

He argued the city must more aggressively market the Local Economic Revitalization Tax Assistance, or LERTA, tax-abatement program officials implemented in 2019. That program allows residents to build or expand city homes and developers to erect new buildings in the city without paying taxes on those improvements for a decade, but King fears few people are aware of the incentive.

The more homeowners you have in the city, the stronger our tax base is going to be in the long run, said King, who also wants to work with the Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce to attract more businesses and industries to the city and called for Scranton to doggedly pursue more grant funding opportunities, among other priorities.

City council members serve four-year terms and earn $12,500 annually.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 14:25:55|Editor: huaxia

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Rescuers retrieve bodies after a speedboat accident by the Padma river in Madaripur district, Bangladesh, May 3, 2021. A speedboat carrying dozens of passengers collided with a sand-laden bulkhead and sank on Monday in Bangladesh's Padma river in Madaripur district, leaving at least 26 people dead and a few missing, a senior police official said. (Xinhua)

DHAKA, May 3 (Xinhua) -- A speedboat carrying dozens of passengers collided with a sand-laden bulkhead and sank on Monday in Bangladesh's Padma river in Madaripur district, leaving at least 26 people dead and a few missing, a senior police official said.

Abdul Hannan, the district's additional police chief, told Xinhua that "26 bodies have so far been found."

He said most of the bodies were found inside the sunken speedboat after it was dragged to the bank.

A search is underway for the missing, he added.

According to the official, some of the passengers managed to swim ashore after the accident that occurred at around 6:00 a.m. local time.

The speedboat was heading to Madaripur's Shibchar area from Munshiganj on the outskirts of Dhaka and collided with the sand carrier in the river, said the official.

Five passengers rescued alive initially have been rushed to a local hospital for treatment, he said.

"We've come to know that the speedboat was carrying about 40-50 passengers," he said.

He could not give immediately the exact number of missing passengers. Enditem
May 3, 1971

6,000 arrested in Vietnam War protests

Thousands of demonstrators arrived in Washington, D.C., for a planned three-day event to protest the United States involvement in the Vietnam War.

As the demonstrations started to get underway in the morning they were met with police armed with billy clubs and tear gas in hopes of dispersing the massive crowds.

By midmorning, police received backup from 4,000 federal troops in hopes of clearing the streets, especially in the numerous block intersections of the nations capital.

Carol Evans, a spokeswoman for the group May Day Collective, said, We had an awful lot of opposition today. The police pretty much anticipated everything, but it was still fairly successful.

Washington, D.C., police reported 6,000 demonstrators were arrested. With the volume of arrests, D.C. courts set up a temporary compound near Kennedy Stadium to process those arrested.

Police said the 6,000 arrested set a one-day record for the district. By comparison, they said, police arrested about 7,000 people over six days during the riots of 1968.

Despite the protests, federal departments reported that federal employees arrived to work. One worker told reporters, It looks like a normal day.

Two-way traffic on section of Adams

Scranton police announced that Adams Avenue between Ash and Olive streets was open to two-way traffic.

The change had been under consideration for some time. The volume of traffic on the avenue had decreased, giving the city reason to make the change.

The traffic light at Gibson Street and Adams Avenue would be removed and replaced with a stop sign.
A woman who alleged a Scranton allergist inappropriately touched her filed a lawsuit against the physician and the medical practice that employed him.

The suit, filed in Lackawanna County Court, alleges Dr. Joel Laury groped the woman, a college student who was shadowing him, purportedly to teach her how to conduct a physical examination. The woman is identified only by her initials.

The allegations mirror claims contained in criminal charges filed against Laury in June 2018, after the woman reported the incident to police. A second female later came forward and made similar allegations that Laury indecently assaulted her in 2017.

The cases went to trial in October. A jury found Laury not guilty of the three counts of indecent assault, but deadlocked on one count of indecent exposure.

Facing retrial on that charge, Laury pleaded guilty in December to one count of open lewdness and two counts of harassment, one of which also stemmed from allegations he touched a 13-year-old patient between her legs during a 2017 examination. He was sentenced in January to six to 18 months in Lackawanna County prison. He was released last month to home confinement while he appeals the sentence to the state Superior Court.

The lawsuit, filed by Scranton attorney Larry Moran Sr., alleges Laury invited his client, who was studying to be a physician assistant, to shadow him as he treated patients at Horizon Medical Corp. in Scranton on June 21, 2018.

At some point, Laury took the woman into an exam room and locked the door. He directed the woman to sit on an exam table and, while dressed only in his underwear, touched her near her groin area and beneath her breasts, purportedly to show her how to check for enlarged lymph nodes.

The lawsuit alleges Laury abused his position of power and authority to convince the woman to acquiesce to the teaching methods, which were woefully incompetent, inappropriate and overly intrusive.

His conduct shocked and humiliated the woman, causing lasting emotional harm, the suit says.

The suit seeks damages from Laury and Horizon Medical Corp., which Moran contends knew or should have known of Laurys inappropriate conduct. Attempts to reach Laury and Horizon Medical for comment were unsuccessful.
Pennsylvania has fallen far behind the pollution reduction goals it has agreed to in the multi-state and federal effort to revive Chesapeake Bay. Other governments that are party to the agreement  Virginia, Maryland and the District of Columbia  have sued the Environmental Protection Agency for failing to force Pennsylvania to comply with the standards.

Even though Pennsylvania does not border the great bay, it is the largest source of freshwater that flows into it. The 13,000-square-mile Susquehanna River watershed, including most of Northeast Pennsylvania, also is the largest source of the nutrient pollution that continues to hinder the bays recovery.

Most of that pollution, in turn, comes from thousands of Pennsylvania farms within that border streams that feed into the Susquehanna River and, ultimately, into the bay.

Pennsylvania has done a decent job of reducing pollution from sewage systems and other sources, which are centralized collection points for pollution and are much more stringently regulated than individual farms.

Republican state Sen. Gene Yaw, of Lycoming County, chairman of the Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee, has introduced a bill that could help to address the problem by helping farmers pay for the costs of diminishing polluted runoff from their fields.

The Agricultural Conservation Assistance Program would address agriculture-related water issues statewide, rather than in the Susquehanna watershed alone, involving nearly 80,000 miles of streams.

Under the program, county conservation districts would manage agricultural water quality projects, and state funds would be funneled through those agencies, rather than leaving the matter to individual farms.

At a recent event announcing the program, Yaw said he likely would seek to use some federal money to fund improvements, but that he was open to all funding sources.

One of those potential sources, gas drilling, directly is related to water quality. Yaw, however, is a primary opponent of a modest, fair extraction tax on gas comparable to those in other states. He should reverse course and recognize such a tax as a means to resolve the water issues.

In any case, the Legislature should approve the bill to improve water quality, generally, and to inch the state towards meeting its obligations to the bay restoration.
Some level of incompetence is as inevitable in government as in any other large enterprise. But Pennsylvanias government is unique in continually forcing residents to root for incompetence as a lesser evil than corruption.

Over the last decade, Pennsylvanians have seen a steady parade of high-level public officials perp-walk into prison  an attorney general, county judges, senior leaders of both parties in the state House and county commissioners  and the forced resignations of others, including two Supreme Court justices.

Such hubris is as appalling as it is expensive. This time its the Pennsylvania School Employees Retirement System, the larger of the two gigantic state pension funds that, together, are underfunded by more than $60 billion.

Because of that, each of Pennsylvanias 500 school districts annually must give PSERS an amount equal to 34% of its payroll, an amount that would put any private-sector enterprise out of business. That is in addition to the state governments contributions to PSERS and the plan covering state government employees, which together total nearly $5 billion a year.

For that kind of money, taxpayers deserve honesty and transparency, at the very least.

Instead, PSERS has been caught by the news media fudging its earnings claims and passing on $25 million in additional costs to taxpayers rather than school employees. Its not clear whether that was inadvertent. As reported by The Philadelphia Inquirer, federal authorities are examining how PSERS leaders reacted when internal estimates revealed that earnings would not meet their projections.

Now, the agency has been served with federal grand jury subpoenas regarding its $3 million acquisition of land in Harrisburg for construction of a new headquarters. It has hired a law firm, the contract with which identifies the parcels in question.

And, in classic Pennsylvania fashion, the law firm will be paid up to $367,500 in public money as the feds examine whether the agencys conduct was incompetent or criminal.

Neither is acceptable. Regardless of the inquirys outcome, its obvious that PSERS requires reform and change at the top.
Editor: Two articles in Thursdays Times-Tribune brought to mind Scrantons No. 1 volunteer, city forester Tony Santoli.

Who knows how many more city streets would have been blocked by downed trees and branches and more property destroyed in Wednesday nights storm were it not for Santolis efforts? Anyone feeling blah might want to take a ride or walk along the streets where the city and Santoli planted trees about a decade ago.

Many of them are now flowering and its sure to pick up ones spirit.

MARIE A. SCHUMACHER

SCRANTON

Editor: A recent letter suggested that since the Pennsylvania Legislature has a Republican majority and Democrats are frustrated with having less influence in governance, we should just elect another Republican to the state Senate so our voices would be heard (Go with GOP flow, April 26).

News alert: The majority is not always right nor does it always serve the best interests of citizens. Silencing alternative ideas is the road to dictatorship. Thoughtful debate representing the broad range of ideas on any issue is what leads to true representation and intelligent decision-making.

We should always doubt that a majority view is the right one. Its akin to the powerlessness we felt when people almost toppled the seat of our democracy on Jan. 6 and the leader did nothing to stop it.

But while the current state legislative majority works toward Georgia-like voting restrictions, we need to hear what the local state Senate candidates, Rep. Marty Flynn and Lackawanna County Commissioner Chris Chermak, have to say about the critical issues of our democracy: voting rights, racial and gender equality, public education funding, environmental protection, economic equality and public health initiatives to prepare for the next pandemic.

I have listened for anything they have to say about those critical topics but I have heard nothing that informs us of where they stand. Lets measure our choices by their courage to share their views on these issues, not the political party they represent.

JEFFREY BLAU

CLARKS SUMMIT

Editor: I believe Denise Nordberg (Observe Biden Day with service work, April 25) is spot on.

The complications that hardworking people and senior citizens would have to endure in the renaming of a Scranton street in honor of President Joe Biden would be more trouble that most people need to deal with right now.

So, I support her idea of a Joe Biden Day. Every year April 1 would be Joe Biden Day. Problem solved, and quite appropriate, I must say.

JOHN T. PETROCHKO

SCOTT TWP.

Editor: Rep. Dan Meuser texted me to say he was fed up with President Bidens gun safety efforts and to ask for a donation.

I dont know why; I am a Biden Democrat, a lefty gun safety advocate and Ill give him nothing.

The corrupt, communist-linked National Rifle Association is devolving, yet Meuser, a Luzerne County Republican, still has its support. Hes a lifelong member who is an avid hunter, enjoys recreational sporting clays, and has a conceal carry license. What does Biden want that impacts Meusers intention to kill rabbits, blast clay disks, or carry a gun?

Like a majority of Americans, Biden wants to limit assault weapons and high-capacity magazines such as those used to massacre babies in Newtown and teenagers in Parkland, Florida. Like most NRA members, Biden wants stricter background checks. He wants to limit online sales of firearms and ammunition and to ban ghost guns assembled using kits and 3D printers. He wants to limit stabilizing braces used by weak-wristed murderers, such as the one who killed 10 people, including a cop, in Boulder, Colorado. He wants red flag laws that allow states to confiscate firearms from dangerous people, such as the guy who murdered FedEx employees in Indiana. Biden wants to hold gun companies liable, support community-based violence intervention programs and have the Justice Department track illegal weapons.

Given his efforts to overturn results of the last presidential election, Meuser seems to generally oppose democracy. But its still a free country. Hes free to believe that the Second Amendment gives him and criminals, terrorists, abusive husbands and the mentally ill unfettered rights, though the courts, which he also disrespects, disagree. He even has the right to support mass murderers who massacre babies and cops, but we have a right to vote him out of office. I look forward to the campaign.

JOSEPH ROGAN

EYNON

Editor: Scranton Mayor Paige Gebhardt Cognetti talks about using $3.1 million of city money to reconstruct the swimming complex at Nay Aug Park.

Really? Scranton is a distressed city with some roads that have more potholes than macadam. The city doesnt have the funds for a zoning officer to address the enormous amount of blight. The city taxes its residents to the poorhouse, but it can afford $3.1 million for a swimming complex?

While were at it, lets raise school taxes. Where are the priorities?

WALTER BARTCZAK

SCRANTON

Editor: Carol Possanza wrote that its a shame that teachers ... school immigrant children (Send them back, April 24)

Its not a shame, its the law. In 1982, in the case of Plyler vs. Doe, the U.S. Supreme Court declared that all young people, regardless of documentation status, have a right to public education. This decision upheld the 14th Amendments equal protection clause which declares that no state shall deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the law.

CATHERINE McANDREWS

ROARING BROOK TWP.
London, KY (40741)

Today

Rain showers in the morning with thunderstorms developing for the afternoon. High near 75F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%. Locally heavy rainfall possible..

Tonight

Cloudy with occasional rain showers. Low 67F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%.
KONNOR PERRIN, Chariho boys lacrosse, freshman: Perrin established a school record for assists in a game with nine in the Chargers 22-0 win over Ponaganset. Perrin leads the team with 21 assists to go with 14 goals.

LILA RICH, Stonington girls track, senior: Rich won two events at the ECC Division I track meet. Rich was first in the high jump (5-0) and the pole vault (10-0) as the Bears finished third at the meet.

MADIGAN HILTZ, Westerly boys lacrosse, senior: Hiltz scored seven goals and had three assists in pair of victories for the Bulldogs. Hiltz has 17 goals and seven assists for the season.

ADDIE HAUPTMANN, Wheeler softball, junior: Hauptmann was 4 for 9 with a home run and six RBIs in two games. For the season, Hauptmann is hitting .617 with eight homers and 42 RBIs. She has 50 hits.

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Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 16:50:27|Editor: huaxia

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People wearing face masks are seen on the street in Sao Paulo, Brazil, April 29, 2021. (Xinhua/Rahel Patrasso)

- Brazil reports 1,202 more deaths



- Chinese mainland reports 11 new cases, all imported

- Ethiopia's cases pass 258,000

- S. Korea reports 488 more cases, 123,728 in total

BEIJING, May 3 (Xinhua) -- The following are the updates on the global fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

- - - -

SAO PAULO -- Brazil reported 1,202 more deaths from COVID-19 in the last 24 hours, bringing the death toll to 407,639, the country's Ministry of Health said Sunday.

The ministry said that another 28,935 cases were reported in the same period, bringing the total caseload to 14,754,910.

- - - -

WELLINGTON -- New Zealand reported four cases of COVID-19 in managed isolation and no new cases of COVID-19 in the community on Monday.

The newly imported cases came from Pakistan, India, the Philippines and Indonesia. They have remained in isolation and quarantine facilities in Auckland and Christchurch, according to the Ministry of Health.

People wait in a designated area for observation after receiving COVID-19 vaccines at a vaccination site in Beijing, capital of China, April 15, 2021. (Xinhua/Peng Ziyang)

- - - -

BEIJING -- The Chinese mainland on Sunday reported 11 new COVID-19 cases, all of which were imported, the National Health Commission said in its daily report on Monday.

Of all the cases, five were reported in Shanghai, four in Guangdong, and one each in Inner Mongolia and Sichuan.

No new suspected cases and no new deaths related to COVID-19 were reported Sunday, the commission said.

Visitors wearing the face mask walk in a complex in Cape Town, legislative capital of South Africa, on April 2, 2021. (Xinhua/Lyu Tianran)

- - - -

ADDIS ABABA -- Ethiopia registered 322 new COVID-19 cases in the past 24 hours, taking the nationwide tally to 258,384 as of Sunday evening, the country's Ministry of Health said.

Meanwhile, 17 new deaths from COVID-19 were reported during the same period, bringing the national death toll to 3,726, the ministry said.

- - - -

BUENOS AIRES -- Argentina reported 11,394 new COVID-19 cases and 156 new deaths over the past 24 hours, bringing the nationwide caseload and death toll to 3,005,259 and 64,252 respectively, its health ministry reported Sunday.

A total of 2,676,197 patients have so far recovered from the disease and 264,810 cases remain active, the ministry said.

- - - -

BOGOTA -- Colombia registered 15,909 new COVID-19 cases over the past 24 hours, taking its nationwide tally to 2,893,655, the ministry of health and social protection said Sunday.

The country also reported 485 more deaths, raising the national death toll to 74,700, said the ministry.

People line up to receive COVID-19 test in Hwaseong of Gyeonggi Province, South Korea, March 14, 2021. (Photo by Seo Yu-Seok/Xinhua)

- - - -

SEOUL -- South Korea reported 488 more cases of COVID-19 as of midnight Sunday compared to 24 hours ago, raising the total number of infections to 123,728.

The daily caseload was down from 606 in the previous day, falling below 500 in seven days due to fewer virus tests over the weekend. 
Port Allen, LA (70767)

Today

Partial cloudiness early, with scattered showers and thunderstorms during the afternoon. High near 90F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%..

Tonight

Partly cloudy. Low 74F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph.
During the autumn of 1999, I took a phone call from an emissary of Paul Dacre, the commanding editor of the Daily Mail.

Robin Esser, in the glorious tradition of the newspaper, invited me to join him for a glass of champagne at the Howard Hotel on the Embankment in central London.

He told me that Andrew Alexander, who had been the Daily Mail's astringent City Editor, would be retiring from full-time duty in May 2000 and would I be interested in the job?

Historic: The Royal Exchange (right) and Bank of England (left) at the turn of the century

For the previous decade, I had been the Financial Editor of the Guardian and in political terms would be making the longest journey in journalism, from left to right. I also understood that if I were to land the post, I would be stepping into the footsteps of giants.

On most papers, city and business editors come and go but at the Mail it is a vocation.

My most famous predecessor, Sir Patrick Sergeant, who is now aged '97 not out', said this weekend: 'Soon after I became City Editor in 1960, Lord Rothermere [Esmond Harmsworth] asked me if I was happy there.

'I said, 'Very happy, thank you, sir.' He replied, 'Good, because you will find that City Editors go on for a long time here, whereas managers come and go.' I was City Editor for 24 years and my predecessor for 25 years.'

Enduring legacy: Sir Patrick Sergeant reinvented financial journalism during his 24 years as City Editor

As a neophyte financial journalist in the early 1970s, Sergeant's commentaries on the Mail City pages were my first port of call.

Not only had he reinvented financial journalism, so that it appealed to the ordinary reader not just the City's money men, but he could single-handedly move a share price or markets.

He had the ear of the nation's bosses, successive governors of the Bank of England and Number 11.

One of his enduring legacies was the paper's personal finance section, Money Mail, the first on any national newspaper.

He put a team together which focused on the everyday issues confronting readers: best buys in savings, mortgages, insurance and much more.

The section's editor Margaret Stone was famed for her sage advice and 'ask Margaret' letters still arrive in the City Office today, now ably answered by her immediate successor Tony Hazell in his Ask Tony column.

The memory of Sergeant's glorious reign and the ability of his successor Andrew Alexander to rally the troops around the flag of Thatcherite laissez-faire economics was legendary.

Alexander was a Eurosceptic long before Brexit came over the horizon. Among his great scoops was the revelation in 1989 that Lord Hanson had acquired a strategic stake in Britain's biggest industrial group ICI.

It set off a train of events which saw ICI's pharmaceutical arm Astrazeneca split off as a separate company leading, in the age of Covid, to the people's vaccine.

Helping hand: Renowned Money Mail editor Margaret Stone was famed for her sage advice

Charles Duguid, whose time as City Editor began in 1906, is another who deserves to be well-remembered.

Duguid's status stemmed from his authorship of How To Read The Money Article, a best-seller which helped to popularise investment by private citizens.

On the eve of the First World War, the London Stock Exchange (LSE) was closed amid a deep recession, chaos on the markets and a debacle over the issue of the War Loan.

Amid great disgruntlement among the 5,000 members of the London Stock Exchange, Duguid stepped into the breach.

On August 1, 1914, he took out half page advertisements in the Financial Times and Financial News announcing that with the LSE shut, 'sellers who desire money for securities they hold, and buyers who desire securities at the present low prices' could buy and sell shares on the Daily Mail Exchange for two shillings and six pence for each deal.

The Daily Mail Exchange was hugely busy until August 1915. Trading was eventually suspended 'owing to war conditions now prevailing, the stagnation in the stock and share dealing and the pressure of war news on our space.'

For a year, the Daily Mail Exchange was the primary venue for share dealing in Great Britain!

The timing was particularly important because of the economic disruption in the period leading up to the war.

Former governor of the Bank of England Mervyn King says this was the greatest British financial crisis until it was surpassed by the banking meltdown of 2007-09 nearly a century later.

The golden legacy of the Mail's City, economic and personal finance coverage lives on.

I and my colleague, Business Editor Ruth Sunderland, along with Victoria Bischoff and her Money Mail reporters, all write for you, the reader.

We care about you, the private investor, whether you chose to directly dive into the stock market or save through an Isa, trust or a pension fund.

But we also care about the future of Britain. That is why over the last two decades we have campaigned against financially driven overseas takeovers with some remarkable successes.

If it were not for us taking sides, our biggest defence company BAE might have ended up as part of Airbus, Astrazeneca an offshoot of Pfizer and Unilever swallowed by Kraft Heinz or hiding away in Rotterdam.

The City pages are strident believers in the magic of the markets, free enterprise, wealth creation and aspiration.

But we also believe in fairness, less greed and a better deal for women and minorities in the nation's boardrooms and business more broadly.

We have learned from our illustrious forebears. Hopefully, future generations of City reporters, whether on the printed page, in the broadcast studios and online, can learn something from us.
We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on!

Submit Here
Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.

Good advice for everyone  teens to seniors  is in The Anger in All of Us and How to Deal With It. To order, send your name and mailing address, plus check or money order for $8 to: Dear Abby, Anger Booklet, P.O. Box 447, Mount Morris, IL 61054-0447. Shipping and handling are included in the price.
Cumberland Arms residents, from left, Bonnie Friend, Tim Savage and Barbara Savage are pictured with Brayden Pennington and Nick Miller of the Cumberland Fire Department. The firefighters rescued the Savages from a March fire. Friend is credited with using a fire extinguisher to knock the blaze down.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 16:52:51|Editor: huaxia

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The European Parliament and the Council of the European Union have just rectified Trade and Cooperation Agreement, which enters into force on Saturday.

Both the EU and the UK hail the agreement as something that will positively affect the future relationship.

Ana Paula Zacarias, Portuguese secretary of state for European affairs, said on behalf of the EU Council's rotating presidency that the TCA opens a new chapter in the relations between the EU and the UK.

She said the agreement will give legal certainty to the new partnership and serve the interests of citizens and businesses on both sides.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen welcomed the adoption of the TCA, saying that it marks the foundation of a strong and close partnership between the EU and the UK.

Produced by Xinhua Global Service
Thomasville, GA (31792)

Today

Cloudy skies this morning will become partly cloudy this afternoon. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 92F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Some clouds this evening will give way to mainly clear skies overnight. Low 68F. Winds light and variable.
U.S. News & World Report named Dobyns-Bennett High School as one of the Best High Schools in the United States
Immediate past Director of Schools Evelyn Rafalowski was rehired in a 6-0 school board vote with one absent at the same meeting where board member learned a turn lane leading to the school won't happen in time for the Aug. 9 opening, the planned widening of all of Lynn Road won't happen by then and there could be water runoff problems affecting adjoining property.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 17:00:21|Editor: huaxia

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Photo taken on April 29, 2021 shows the U.S. Commerce Department in Washington, D.C., the United States. (Xinhua/Liu Jie)

"While proposing ways to pay for new spending and for expanded refundable tax credits is laudable, the Biden administration has chosen to pursue inefficient tax increases that would undermine economic growth and reduce U.S. competitiveness," a U.S. economist with the right-leaning Tax Foundation said.

WASHINGTON, May 3 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Joe Biden's 4-trillion-U.S.-dollar spending plans may be a tough sell in Congress, as tax hikes proposed to offset the cost have prompted backlash from Republican lawmakers, and even raised eyebrows among moderate Democrats.

Biden unveiled a 1.8-trillion-dollar spending proposal for childcare and education on Wednesday night, when addressing a joint session of Congress, just weeks after putting forward a 2.3-trillion-dollar infrastructure plan.

U.S. President Joe Biden addresses a joint session of Congress in Washington, D.C., the United States, April 28, 2021. (Chip Somodevilla/Pool via Xinhua)

Urging corporate America and the wealthiest 1 percent of Americans to "pay their fair share," Biden said his tax policies, which include raising the corporate rate (from 21 percent to 28 percent), the top personal income tax rate (from 37 percent to 39.6 percent) and the capital gains rate (from 20 percent to 39.6 percent for households earning 1 million dollars or more), will help pay for what he proposed to spend in 15 years.

Calling the 2017 tax cut "a huge windfall" for corporate America and those at the very top, Biden said it had poured billions of dollars into the pockets of CEOs, widening the pay gap between CEOs and their workers.

"Wall Street didn't build this country. The middle class built this country," said the U.S. president, arguing that it's time to grow the economy from the bottom up and middle-out.

Delivering the Republican Party's rebuttal to Biden's address to a joint session of Congress last week, Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina said the president's tax hike proposals, if enacted, would lower wages, kill jobs and shrink the U.S. economy.

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, meanwhile, said in a tweet that Biden delivered a multi-trillion-dollar shopping list that "was not even intended to earn bipartisan buy-in," calling it a "lengthy liberal daydream." The Republican leader had previously said that he thinks no Republican would vote in favor of raising taxes to pay for the infrastructure plan.

Within his own party, Biden's sweeping spending plans could also face resistance from moderate Democrats, who have already raised concerns over proposed tax hikes.

Josh Gottheimer, a House representative from New Jersey, recently told U.S. news website Axios that "we need to be careful not to do anything that's too big or too much in the middle of a pandemic and an economic crisis."

Scott Peters, a representative of California, and Joe Manchin, senator of West Virginia, both indicated that they consider a corporate tax rate of 28 percent to be too high, and would be inclined to support a smaller tax hike. The 2017 tax law slashed the top corporate tax rate from 35 percent to 21 percent.

With slim majorities in both chambers of Congress, Democratic leaders are poised to face challenges in unifying the party. In the 50-50 split Senate, the party can't afford to lose a single vote, while in the House of Representatives, the party can lose just three Democratic votes, with unanimous Republican opposition.

Greg Cusack, a former member of the Iowa House of Representatives, told Xinhua that Biden is potentially "the most significant president" since Franklin D. Roosevelt if Congress can pass his legislation. "That's a big 'IF,'" he said. "However, the ball is now in Congress' court and this doesn't look promising."

Outside the Capitol Hill, intense discussions over the proposed tax hikes are underway.

Neil L. Bradley, executive vice president of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, praised the idea of funding infrastructure largely through user-based fees, rather than tax hikes, welcoming a bipartisan proposal recently released by the House Problem Solvers Caucus.

Pedestrians walk on a street in San Mateo, California, the United States, April 6, 2021. (Xinhua/Wu Xiaoling)

"While proposing ways to pay for new spending and for expanded refundable tax credits is laudable, the Biden administration has chosen to pursue inefficient tax increases that would undermine economic growth and reduce U.S. competitiveness," said Erica York, an economist with the right-leaning Tax Foundation.

Amid doubts and concerns, U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen on Sunday defended Biden's proposals on CNN, giving a "resounding yes" to the question of whether "trading higher taxes on high-income taxpayers for middle-class tax cuts and major economic investments pro-growth."

Despite pro-growth arguments, Maya MacGuineas, president of the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, a U.S. watchdog group, urged Congress to shrink the size of the packages or identify additional offsets, or some combination, arguing that Congress should match new spending and offsets over the customary 10-year timeframe, rather than the 15-year window Biden proposed.

"Usually people with big dreams are successful, but, I guess on the flip side of that, I have concerns of who's going to pay for all those big dreams," Tom Waters, a soybean and corn farmer in Orrick, in the Midwest state of Missouri, told Xinhua. 
Norma Johnson runs a day care center out of her home in Albany. When the pandemic hit, almost all of the more than 10 kids she provided services to, save for three, stopped coming in - or their parents stopped paying tuition.

The money she gets from the Department of Social Services for caring for the remaining three children pays her rent. Leaving her with only about $300 left to pay for all the other costs associated with providing care.

It is not really working out, Johnson said. Doing something else isnt going to work either. People are hardly hiring and [if they did] I would have to use all the money I make to pay for my own child to go to childcare. It wouldnt make any sense.

Johnson is one of hundreds of day care providers across the country that are operating on thin margins and struggling to stay afloat during the pandemic. Many have not survived as long as Johnsons center has; home care centers were particularly impacted as they tried to accommodate families who couldnt afford care in hopes of being paid back. A year later, they havent been, and are facing closing for good, according to child care experts in the Capital Region.

About one quarter of day care centers throughout New York have closed since the start of the pandemic, according to data from the states Office of Children and Family Services.

In March, the federal government passed the American Rescue Plan which will bring $2.3 billion dollars for New York providers and families seeking child care. That money is imperative to getting centers back on their feet, child care advocates and experts say, but it does nothing until it is in the hands of providers, a process that with the CARES Act took time. Providers are wary they will get the money anytime soon, after already being forced to dip into their savings to pay for supplies upfront earlier this year.

Until this money is in the hands of providers until there are checks in hands, it doesnt do anybody any good, said Jenn OConnor the director of policy and advocacy at Prevent Child Abuse New York. They need this money now in order to literally stabilize the sector.

Even before the pandemic forced centers to close, the Capital Region was considered a child care desert. Then the states COVID-19 safety guidelines required centers to reduce the number of kids, and many parents, because they were working from home and were scared of spreading the virus, stopped sending their kids, making tuition money vanish.

The funds the American Rescue Plan bring will help fill in the holes the pandemic created, said Abbe Kovacik, the executive director of Brightside, a child care resource referral agency. I dont think these dollars will be used to start up new child care programs, they are supplemental dollars, Kovacik said.

Providers looking for grants to help pay workers, pay rent, and do repairs, as well as families looking for tuition help, will need to apply to the Office of Children and Family services for the money.

Analisa Sanchez opened a care center in September in Schenectady after being furloughed from her job and seeing her community in need of more child care options. Sanchez will be spending the federal money on supplies like toys, plastic cups, and materials to keep the kids interested and active with activities. Food and electricity are also big costs for Sanchez.

A lot of these kids I see for 11 hours a day, Sanchez said. I see them more than their parents do. Im feeding them breakfast, lunch, dinner, two snacks, and if they are hungry throughout the day, just like a mom, I need to feed those children, Sanchez said. Every day all day there is someone here, the lights are always on, the water is always running.

Madelyn Galan, a provider looking after eight kids in Albany, would use the money to buy diapers and wipes. The majority of the children I have their parents cant even afford diapers and wipes, not even sneakers, Galan said.

A lot of the kids are coming from households that dont have a lot of income, so sometimes it comes down to buying socks for the children who show up on a winter day without them, Sanchez said. You are almost like a second parent when you are a child care provider.

Demetris Fullard, who runs a center that before the pandemic cared for 64 children, says she would spend the money on toys and duplicates that are needed to properly socially distance the children. The number of children the center cares for as also been cut in half.

We have to replace a lot of things. We used to be able to use reusable cups with kids names and now we have to buy disposable cups, to forks, to everything, Fullard said. It causes a [financial] strain.

Other providers say they need help filling out paperwork required by the state to be a licensed caregiver and need help finding qualified individuals to work at their centers. Historically, child care workers get paid very low wages and there is high turnover of staff, experts say.

Some centers took in school-aged kids to help essential working families who had kids at home doing virtual school, increasing the need for more staff members.

How do you run a program with two and three-year-olds when you have 12-year-olds all on virtual school? Sanchez said. Its pretty hard for me to be in a room teaching kids what they need to know like their ABCs, their 123s, and getting their wiggles on, that is a whole different dynamic than an older child. Being a one-person provider you have to cater to all of those children and their development levels.

It is no secret that day care is extremely expensive, in particular in New York, but also across the country, and leaves many working parents in a bind. President Bidens American Families Plan introduced at the end of April is aimed at remedying this chronic problem. If passed, it promises low and middle income families would not have to spend more than seven percent of their income on childcare.

Childcare advocates are excited by the big promises possibly coming for families and providers, but the universal pre-K proposal brings some pause. Depending on how it is implemented it might take three-and-four-year-olds out of day care centers, an age group that tends to generate the most tuition money.

The interplay between child care and universal pre-kindergarten is always something we want to be cautious of, said Jessica Klos Shapiros, director of policy and community education at Early Care and Learning Council. We want to make sure there is a mixed delivery system meaning that there are programs in community-based organizations not just school districts.

Overall, both the American Rescue Plan and the upcoming potential of the American Families Plan will bring historically high levels of financial aid that providers have been begging for since the start of the pandemic.

I wouldnt have to be struggling to pay my rent, Johnson said about the federal money which she hopes she receives soon. You go into business to help people but you also want to make a profit. You dont want to have to worry what if a child left today, what if two of the children left today.
ALBANY  A group of telecommunications trade groups that represent a broad range of internet providers has filed a lawsuit trying to block Gov. Andrew Cuomo's landmark new law that would make them provide $15-a-month internet service to low-income customers.

The new law, which was passed as part of the state budget last month, is part of a broader effort by the Cuomo administration to ensure that everyone in the state  regardless of income or location  can get high-speed internet, which during the pandemic has become more important than ever as students and workers have been forced to work and study from home.

Last week, the New York State Telecommunications Association, the Wireless Association and other groups like the Rural Broadband Association, filed a lawsuit in U.S. District Court in Brooklyn seeking to block the law on the grounds that it violates federal policy to not interfere with internet rates.

"Indeed, the broadband service that New York seeks to regulate has never been subject to rate regulation at the federal or state level," the lawsuit states.

The lawsuit notes that many companies already have low-cost offerings for qualified low-income customers and that the federal government already provides subsidies to telecom companies to provide these low-cost packages.

The lawsuit says that the new New York law goes into effect June 15, and that it allows companies to offer a standard speed $15-a-month plan or a $20 plan with faster speeds.

"New York, however, now seeks to regulate broadband rates," the lawsuit states. "In short, New York has overstepped its regulatory authority. The rate regulation is preempted under both conflict and field preemption principles."

A call to Bob Puckett, president of the New York State Telecommunications Association in Albany, was not immediately returned.

However, Spectrum, which is the major cable TV and internet provider in the Capital Region, says through a spokesperson it is not a party to the lawsuit either directly or through any industry association, although it is "evaluating" the suit as well as the new law.

Spectrum has an existing $14.99 internet service offer for low-income customers that has been in place for several years that likely already complies with the new law.

Verizon, which also provides cable TV and internet in the Capital Region, has its own $20-a-month low income plan.

Cuomo, however, is not happy about the lawsuit, which could delay the start of the new law in June if the trade associations can get a judge to block it temporarily as the suit is considered.

"COVID hasn't only threatened the health and well-being of New Yorkers, but it exposed the many injustices preventing millions of people from building a prosperous life," Cuomo said in a statement. "Now more than ever, it's critical we break down these barriers and ensure every New Yorker is able to take part in our post-COVID recovery."

The governor said he expected the industry would be upset by the law and would seek to stop it. His administration has continuously pushed the envelope to treat internet providers as utilities, like phone and electric companies, as the internet has gone from a luxury to a necessity the past 30 years.



"Let me be abundantly clear  providing internet in the Empire State is not a god given right," Cuomo said. "If these companies want to pick this fight, impede the ability of millions of New Yorkers to access this essential service and prevent them from participating in our economic recovery, I say bring it on."
According to U.S. Census data, New York is going to lose its 27th congressional seat after 2022  a result of the state falling just 89 residents shy of beating out Minnesota. The reason: Though not nearly as bad as our Founding Fathers' failure to wipe out chattel slavery, they did a pretty poor job plotting out how large the House of Representatives should grow to be; in 1929, their federal descendants decided that the maximum number should be 435. Every 10 years after the census, those House seats are reapportioned.

The 2010 census pegged New York's population at 19.6 million. The 2020 census just this week placed New York's population at 20.2 million. I'm not a mathematician, but those with whom I have consulted tell me that this indicates that New York gained residents over the past decade  albeit at a lower rate than states like Utah (pop. 3.3 million, an 18 percent gain over 2010's count).

Many state Republicans, however, are comporting themselves as if the state is like the Dust Bowl at the beginning of "The Grapes of Wrath." Sen. Jim Tedisco, R-Glenville, said in a statement that the loss of a seat was "an indictment that the Empire State is fast becoming the Empty State with further population loss. Again: We've added population.

He continues: New York leads the nation in outmigration of residents with 126,000 people leaving last year and over 1 million in the past decade"  a claimed that Politifact rated "half-true," noting that the lawmaker's number conflates outmigration and other factors like death  "and the state is ranked 50th in the nation for Tax Freedom Day when residents symbolically pay-off all of their federal, state and local tax obligations and start keeping the money they earn. (Apparently we are also suffering from an outmigration of periods and commas.)

Explaining the population trend, Senate Minority Leader Rob Ortt's statement said, "we tax too much, we spend too much, and we fail to offer the opportunities that are available in more affordable states." In a press conference, he struck on Trumpier nativist themes: When you do some of the things that weve done to attract people from all over the world with some of the handouts, some of the programs that we offer here in New York, the people who are coming here  theyre not taxpayers, in many cases."

Amid all this pearl-clutching and political gamesmanship, some history and context is getting befogged.

From 1900 to 1960, New York was the nation's most populous state. In 1950, it had 45 members of Congress, which  and I've doubled-checked this with the math people  was about 10 percent of the House. (California will lose one seat next year, bringing its delegation down to a still-huge 52 members.) Starting with the 1950 census, population in other states began chipping away at New York's delegation at a rate of two seats a decade, with a significant bump in 1980, when the state actually lost almost 680,000 residents (costing us five seats), and 1990 (three seats).

This means that New York has lost members of Congress under Republican as well as Democratic governors, and under legislative houses controlled by members of both parties. We have benefited from certain historic trends that drive population shifts domestically and internationally, and suffered from others. I could go back through history to find out if Democrats blamed Republican Gov. Thomas Dewey for leading the state into decline when we lost our 45th and 44th seats after the 1950 census, but I have too much on my plate with all this math.

Republicans are more muted when it comes to placing blame where it actually deserves to be leveled: at Gov. Andrew Cuomo, whose administration took its time issuing funding for "complete count" efforts designed to encourage census participation among hard-to-reach minoritized communities.

As the Times Union reported throughout 2018 and 2019, Cuomo talked a big game about boosting census efforts, but repeatedly ignored deadlines and slow-rolled funding, prompting howls from advocates. He blew off the deadline to make eight appointments to the state's Complete Count Commission, which in turn blew off a January 2019 deadline to issue its blueprint for victory; the report was nine months late. It's impossible to prove that faster action would have managed to convince 89 more New York residents to fill out their census form, but you'd have to be pretty thick to draw any other conclusion.

Cuomo has now asked Attorney General Letitia James to explore legal options that might allow us to swipe back the seat from those weasels in Minnesota, which according to the New York Times launched its complete-count effort in 2015. Legal precedent suggests that New York won't have a lot of luck in the courts: If we start opening up the census ex post facto, the entire system of reapportionment is going to be thrown into the proverbial cocked hat.

But still, there is something poignant about a governor who railed against President Donald Trump's false allegations that the 2020 presidential vote was rigged against him now claiming that the census was rigged against New York.

cseiler@timesunion.com
CBRE, a commercial real estate firm, analyzed the data of 29 million address changes reported by the U.S. Postal Service in 2020. The findings showed that nearly all urban centers saw an increase in move-outs, with metro dwellers moving to a majority of places that were short-to-moderate distances from their urban hubs. In New York state, that meant the Hudson Valley and upstate were prime destinations for New York City residents seeking greener pastures.

Columbia County, located 125 miles north of Manhattan, checks off this box, as does Ulster County across the river, which is slightly closer to the city. Of all Hudson Valley counties, Columbia and Ulster saw the highest year-over-year change in people moving there from New York, Queens, Kings and Bronx counties from 2019 to 2020.

While 412 people changed their address from New York City to Columbia County in 2019, the data shows a 204 percent increase in 2020, with 1,254 people moving there. In Ulster, 951 people moved there from New York City in 2019  in 2020, that number jumped to 2,647 people, a 180 percent uptick.

CBRE Research

Its not a surprise to have people from a dense, crowded city like New York move to the nearby Hudson Valley looking for some peace and quiet, maybe buying a second home, said Matt Mowell, CBRE Senior Economist. Thats not news. What is news is how pronounced that trend has been in 2020.

The New York Times, using the same data set, reports that Hudson and Kingston are the top two metro spots nationwide seeing the biggest change in net relocations. While the upstate metros are highlighted, these cities arent the only areas that have experienced a jump in New York City transplants. More rural areas, like Ulsters Phoenicia and Columbias Copake, have also seen considerable shifts in net migration from the city since 2019.

The joys of living in high-density Manhattan just arent there, said Mowell.

CBRE Research

Small metros like Hudson and Kingston are outliers to the exodus from urban areas, the CBRE data analysis shows. Bloomberg reports that 197 people moved to the Hudson area during the pandemic for every 100 who moved out  the largest increase in the country for a metro area in the nationwide analysis.

Boost to small businesses?

While the data shows big changes in residency to the Hudson Valley, it does not capture whether newcomers are contributing to the local economy. An address change alone doesnt necessarily assure that these new residents are shopping locally instead of ordering goods via major nationwide retailers like Amazon, if they are sending their kids to local school districts, or if they are patronizing local restaurants.

Other metrics, beyond the U.S. Postal Service data, do indicate that transplants are spending locally  though these address-changers may have been part-time locals all along.

We had approximately 4,200 second home-owners to begin with who generally use their homes for seasonal weekends or a long vacation, said F. Michael Tucker, president and CEO of Columbia Economic Development Corporation. A portion of the people who changed their mailing address may have already owned homes here.

Tucker also pointed out that many other visitors booked months-long Airbnb stays in the county to ride out the pandemic, and may have also contributed to the local economy.

According to Tucker, 80 percent of businesses in Columbia County have fewer than 10 employees, and the amount of small business loans doubled during the pandemic.

A lot of the small retail, hospitality, restaurant and service businesses are doing really well, said Tucker. Think about when you move. If something in your house breaks, you go to the local hardware store to spend money.

The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance reported that the first quarter of 2021 showed a 13.7 percent increase, or $1.4 million, in monthly local sales tax collections compared to the same time last year in Columbia County. In Ulster, the jump was 8.9 percent. The trend was the same across the board in all of upstate New York, compared to the13.2 percent decline that New York City saw.

Were seeing a surge year over year in sales tax, said Tucker. Whats happened is as the state loosened the restrictions to reopen, and businesses have taken the necessary precautions to make it safe for its customers to return. We have seen a level of increased business activity in many sectors.

In Ulster, one of the founders of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Nutshell Realty and owner of Stone Ridge Wine & Spirits, Timothy Sweeney, said Stone Ridge Wine & Spirits saw a 58 percent increase in sales over the past year.

I can tell you they are absolutely supporting our local economy, said Sweeney of the newcomers. Obviously we all know internet sales have gone through the roof with Amazon Prime, but sales tax collections in the county were astronomical over the past year.

It also looks like at least some parents are enrolling their children in local school districts, rather than keeping them remote at a New York City-based school; the Kingston City School District reported a 5 to 7 percent uptick in enrollment in the older grades.

What happens if everyone stays

Although promising news for both counties in terms of economic growth, struggles lie ahead  some directly from an increase in out-of-towners.

One of the concerns is if we have sufficient infrastructure, particularly broadband, to support migration, and how do we address the price of homes going up, and the needs of people who are earning median income wages? said Tucker.

According to the latest U.S. census data, Columbia County has a median income of $66,787, with 10.1 percent living in poverty. Ulster has a larger segment of low-income residents with a median income of $64,304 and a 12 percent poverty rate. The housing crunch is apparent, especially with a record-breaking real estate market pace and bidding wars.

Tucker said unemployment is another issue for locals. Columbia has a 5.3 percent unemployment rate compared to Ulster's 6.2 percent, while New York state as a whole reported a 5.7 percent rate in March.

Hearing that things are going well and coming back rings hollow with people that are still unemployed, said Tucker. Things are continuing in a state of flux.

CBRE Research

With some towns adjusting to an influx of city folks, it isnt certain how long they will stay and continue to be involved locally. Mowell said a future of remote work allows many of New York City transplants to split their time between two locations.

As COVID-19 becomes more of a thing of the past, day-to-day life and work will pivot back to these major cities, said Mowell. Remote work could be here to stay, and I think that will benefit these adjacent places like the Hudson Valley. Its not hard to jump on a train in Poughkeepsie and get to Grand Central. Youre going to have people who might work Monday and Tuesday in the Hudson Valley and then the next few days in the city.

With the summer months usually drawing in tourists regardless of the pandemic, Tucker remains optimistic that newcomers will stay around for a while.

Youre not going to go back to a metropolitan in the heat of the summer, said Tucker. Were hoping that will bridge the recovery without putting strain on infrastructure or local services.
ALBANY  All state judges and their staffs are expected to be back to working at their assigned courthouses in three weeks, the states top judge said Monday in her weekly address.

Chief Judge Janet DiFiore said the court system is incrementally returning to work with staffing levels at 80 percent in courts outside New York City and 75 percent within the five boroughs.

The entirety of judges and their staffs is expected by May 24, DiFiore said.

Our restaffing sends an important message to the public, and to our partners in government that our judges and staff are present in our courthouses doing the peoples business and supporting the states economic reopening at this critical time when the COVID metrics have improved significantly, more and more people are getting vaccinated and restrictions on business, cultural and recreational activities are being lifted, DiFiore said in her Monday address, which she has given weekly since the pandemic started in March 2020.

She said the return of judges will allow for an increase in civil and criminal trials as well as other proceedings. She said more than 70 trials were set to start this week  the largest increase since the COVID-19 pandemic forced courts to go virtual.

Lucian Chalfen, a spokesman for the Unified Court System, said one civil trial will be held this week in the seven-county Third Judicial District, which covers Albany, Rensselaer, Schoharie, Columbia, Greene, Ulster and Sullivan counties. And seven criminal trials will be held next week between the 3rd Judicial District and the 4th Judicial District, which covers 11 counties, including Schenectady, Saratoga, Warren, Washington, Montgomery, Fulton, Clinton, St. Lawrence, Essex, Franklin, Hamilton.

The chief judge said the courts will continue safety measures such as taking the temperature of all visitors and mandating masks be worn and social distancing be practiced. She said virtual courts will still be used where in-person appearances are not needed. DiFiore said in the last week more than 1,1oo online nonjury trials and hearings were held virtually, in addition to judges presiding over conferences for more than 6,100 matters.

The chief judge ended her message saying: "I once again urge you to remain disciplined in doing all that you can and should be doing to keep

yourselves and those around you safe."

DiFiore's remarks came during the court system's annual Law Day, which was held virtually for the second consecutive year due to the pandemic. She was joined at the event virtually by Attorney General Letitia James and State Bar Association President Scott Karson at an event themed Advancing the Rule of Law, Now.

In her Law Day comments, James noted the Black Lives Matter movement and calls for police reform following the deaths of civilians at the hands of police, such as the May 25, 2020, killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis. Officer Derek Chauvin, who killed Floyd when he knelt on his neck for nine minutes and 29 seconds during an arrest, was convicted of all charges, including second-degree murder, last month.

"This pandemic has brought to light the significant and rampant inequalities that still permeate our space," James said. "The fact that we have an entire movement of people simply claiming that their lives matter is a sign of how far we have yet to go to claim humanity for all and not just some so that the voices that have remained unheard can be allowed to breathe fresh air into our system of laws."

James noted the record turnout in last year's presidential election won by President Joe Biden over ex-President Donald Trump.

"Voting by mail allowed so many to have their voices heard at a time when leaving home was, and still is for the time being, considered risky," James said. "So when states like Georgia, most recently, pass laws not to protect people, but to suppress people and suffocate the right to vote instead of

letting it breathe freely, we must not stay silent."

Karson highlighted the Jan. 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol by enraged followers of the former president, who had claimed he won the election and was a victim of election fraud. Karson chided Trump lawyer and former New York City Mayor Rudolph Giuliani for pushing a false narrative and then admitting in court while arguing on Trump's behalf that it was not a fraud case.

"Falsehoods under the guise of truth impede rational discourse and informed decision-making, which are critical and necessary components of

effective governance in a democratic society," Karson said.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 17:15:42|Editor: huaxia

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-- In 2017, China proposed a rural vitalization strategy as a key move to accelerate the modernization of agriculture and rural areas, and has since adopted a host of policies to chart the roadmap for rural vitalization.



-- As the campaign goes deeper, more young, high-skilled personnel like Xue have been playing an important role in promoting modern agriculture and becoming new types of farmers.

-- Talent has always been placed in a prominent position in China's rural vitalization, which will provide ample space for Chinese youths to bring new technologies and concepts to the countryside and promote the local economy.

by Xinhua writers Zhang Xuan, Chengdi, Xiong Jialin and Ma Yujie



BEIJING, May 3 (Xinhua) -- Xue Qiang, 35, graduated from Xi'an Technological University with a master degree in economics in 2012.

Almost without hesitation, he decided to go back home to take over the "family business" in the rural areas of Xi'an, capital of northwest China's Shaanxi Province.

His father, Xue Tuo, takes care of over 660 hectares of land and is a famous farmer in his hometown.

Now Xue Qiang runs an agricultural machinery cooperative and the traditional farm work of plowing, sowing, spraying the pesticide and harvesting is completely mechanized and can be completed in just nine days.

Xue Qiang also takes advantage of his educational background in farming. "I do maths to make decisions. For instance, I compare the cost between planting wheat and other crops, the cost of upgrading machinery and the estimated profit. My major helps me mitigate risks and make the right decision," said Xue Qiang.

Last year, wheat fields managed by Xue Qiang's cooperative achieved a yield of 5,250 kg per hectare, much higher than that in the surrounding areas.

Xue Qiang stands in the corn field after harvest in Chang'an District of Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, Sept. 18, 2020. (Xinhua)

In 2017, China proposed a rural vitalization strategy as a key move to accelerate the modernization of agriculture and rural areas, and has since adopted a host of policies to chart the roadmap for rural vitalization.

As the campaign goes deeper, more young, high-skilled personnel like Xue have been playing an important role in promoting modern agriculture and becoming new types of farmers. With professional skills and novel ideas of management, they are bringing new vitality to China's rural economic development.

Wang Qi, 28, is wowed at how his home village has transformed over the past decades.

Located in the remote areas of Shaanxi Province, Yuanjia Village only had 62 households in the late 1970s. Now it has grown into a famous tourist destination attracting over 5 million tourists a year. The annual per capita income of the village has surpassed 100,000 yuan (15,450 U.S. dollars).

"In 2019, the head of the villagers' committee called for the young generation to come back and 'explore new ways' to boost the development of the village, and I was lured back after months' consideration," said Wang.

The young people did bring the village a new look. They introduced popular food chain stores such as Starbucks and KFC and the move is well-received among young tourists.

The Starbucks coffeehouse was set in an old building of the Ming and Qing dynasties, said Wang, adding that the building's original appearance was preserved.

Ding Dan, a graduate student from the University of Liverpool, also decided to become a farmer after working several years in Shanghai's central business district.



Ding Dan adjusts an agricultural drone in Gao'an City, east China's Jiangxi Province, April 21, 2020. (Xinhua)

His parents run a food-processing company with an annual output value of 200 million yuan, but they have not been supportive of his decision.

"In their view, being involved in agriculture is too laborious," said Ding.

Being a farmer is indeed a Herculean task. After failing to make a profit out of the land in the first year, Ding's company was shattered by extreme drought, flooding, plague of insects and low temperature in the next two years, taking a hit on the already untenable business.

But Ding eventually worked it out and in 2019, after two years of work in Shinao Township of Gao'an City, east China's Jiangxi Province, his 20-hectare land yielded 165,000 kg of rice.

Now Ding's company has created over 600 job positions and significantly raised the income of local farmers.

Ding Dan (C) discusses the features of high-quality rice with his parents in Gao'an City, east China's Jiangxi Province, Jan. 9, 2021. (Xinhua/Chen Chunyuan)

A law on the promotion of rural vitalization was recently adopted by the national legislature, providing the country a legal guarantee in pursuit of the rural vitalization strategy.

The law stipulates protecting the permanent basic cropland, building a system to ensure a steady increase in rural income, and strengthening the work involving rural talent.

Talent has always been placed in a prominent position in China's rural vitalization, which will provide ample space for Chinese youths to bring new technologies and concepts to the countryside and promote the local economy.

Huang Wenxin, a provincial agricultural official, said Jiangxi will further optimize the rural entrepreneurial environment, encourage and guide high-skilled personnel such as university graduates and retired soldiers to work in the rural areas.

"I hope more young people could join the mission of rural vitalization," said Xue Qiang.

(Video reporters: Liu Bin, Li Hua, Jiang Chenrong, Cao Zecheng, Chen Yida. Video editor: Zhang Yucheng)
A former Albany Marine recruiter and Vietnam War veteran has been chosen to be one of the nations 2021 Purple Heart Patriot Project honorees.

Marine Staff Sgt. Oliver Hickok of Newburgh, a former Albany resident, is a two-time Purple Heart recipient who represented his fellow Purple Heart heroes from New York state at a multi-day tribute to the courage and sacrifice of Americans combat wounded. The Purple Heart Patriot Project is a program of the National Purple Heart Honor Mission.

Hickock earned an all-expense-paid trip that included visits to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, historic Gen. George Washingtons Headquarters at Vails Gate, near Newburgh, a special tour of the newly renovated National Purple Heart Hall of Honor and other tributes to service. A Purple Heart recipient was selected from each state for the tribute.

Oliver (Hickok) and his fellow Patriot Project honorees are true American heroes, said Richie Lay, a Purple Heart recipient and chairman of the National Purple Heart Honor Mission. Americas Purple Heart veterans have given so much to defend freedom and that sacrifice must always be remembered. We are privileged to be able to provide this unique salute to service for our Purple Heart heroes.

Our Purple Heart recipients have made enormous sacrifices for America and this was our opportunity to say thank you on behalf of a grateful nation. For some, this was like the homecoming they never had. We received hundreds of nominations from across the country and we looked forward to honoring Oliver for his lifelong sacrifice and service to his community, said Col. Russ Vernon (ret.), executive director for the National Purple Heart Honor Mission.

Reflecting on his 18-year military career, Hickok called his time in the service, The best thing that ever happened to me. My career brought me to all 50 states and around the world.

Hickok enlisted in the Air Force in June 1956 at the age of 17. He was stationed in Japan and then Hawaii, before finishing his Air Force time in Alabama.

In December 1960, he enlisted in the. Marine Corps. After he graduated from boot camp at Parris Island, S.C., he was assigned to Memphis, and then the Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C. Hickok was reassigned to Okinawa. Afterward he served his first tour in the Vietnam War as part of Operation SHUFLY. After finishing that tour in South Vietnam, Hickok returned to the U.S.

After he completed several schooling opportunities, including the Defense Language Institution and the Army POW Interrogation-Translation School at Fort Holabird, Md., he redeployed to Vietnam as a translator interrogator.

On Jan. 26, 1968, Hickok was wounded three times  in the left shoulder, back and knee  during an attack Feb. 2, 1968 during the Tet Offensive. Hickok was medivaced to Da Nang, and then to Japan before returning home four months later.

He was then assigned to recruiter school at Parris Island, and upon completing the training he was then assigned to Recruiting Station Albany.. He also served at Recruiting Station Kingston for two years before military retirement. Hickok also earned a Good Conduct Medal, a Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry, and a Combat Action Ribbon.

He is a life member of the Military Order of the Purple Heart, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Disabled American Veterans, the Vietnam Veterans of America and the American Legion. He also held various leadership roles in the Boy Scouts of America. Married for 60 years, Hickok is the father of four, grandfather of 10, and great-grandfather of six.

Hickok was nominated to take part in the Patriot Project Mission by his daughter, Kristina Swan.

The National Purple Heart Hall of Honor is located just north of West Point, New York, at the site where Gen. George Washington first awarded the Badge of Military Merit in 1782 during the Revolutionary War. The badge, shaped like a purple heart was the forerunner of todays medal. In addition to creation of the museum, the National Purple Heart Honor Mission was instrumental in the creation of the Purple Heart Forever stamp now issued by the US Postal Service. The organization was the driving force behind bipartisan legislation establishing the nations first official Purple Heart Commemorative Coin, which will be minted in 2022.

For more information on the National Purple Heart Honor Mission or donate to support the Purple Heart Patriot Project visit www.PurpleHeartMission.org.
Lori Van Buren

GREENWICH  The Washington County Sheriff's Office and the families of two 10-year-old boys are looking for a fisherman so they can thank him for saving one of the children from drowning Sunday in Cossayuna Lake.

A 10-year-old child in a kayak fell into the water around 2:37 p.m. Sunday, and another 10-year-old in a kayak was able to help the other child hang on to the boat. Neither child was wearing a life jacket, according to the sheriff's office.
Last year, I visited the Greenwood Cultural Center in Oklahoma to attend a community organized event on the Tulsa race massacre of 1921 one of the most terrorizing massacres of Black people in U.S. history. The experience served as yet another painful reminder that our nations long history of violence, bloodshed and terrorism against Black and brown people is seldom memorialized and very rarely acknowledged in American history curriculum.

New York is one of the most diverse states, and more than half of its public school students are people of color. It should be a national leader in teaching an accurate, race-conscious history curriculum, and there are proposals to help us get there. Sen. Zellnor Myrie, D-Brooklyn, is sponsoring legislation that would ensure schools teach a culturally responsive education curriculum, while Senator Brian Benjamin, D-Manhattan, is calling for a new state commission dedicated to developing curricula that more accurately reflect the achievements of Black Americans. Both bills should become law.

The saying that the winners write history has had a tragic effect in the United States, where white supremacy has prevailed over equity since our nations founding. Too often the perspective in our history books is that of those who were in positions of power, leaving out the crucial perspectives, truths and struggles of people of color.

Now, in the midst of a racial awakening that has swept the country, reactionary forces are mobilizing to keep it that way  undermining our nations ability to heal.

The Trump administrations infamous 1776 Report, which blamed last years nationwide demonstrations against racism and police brutality on a left-wing conspiracy to indoctrinate students, is a prime example of this. It was notably drafted without the help of a single professional historian, and defended the Founding Fathers reliance on slavery, the 3/5ths compromise, while denigrating historical scholarship on race and the Black experience in America.

Even though President Joe Biden rescinded the commission and its report, this experience begs an important question about what we should be teaching students about American history, as well as how the historical legacy of racism continues to shape our society today.

Contrary to former President Donald Trump, pop-culture phenomena like the 1619 Project were not born of disdain for our Founding Fathers, but emerged as meaningful reactions to an idealized version of American history that too often distorts the underlying causes of deeply ingrained social problems.

To break social barriers and foster a more honest understanding of the world, students should be taught a far more nuanced history of the civil rights movement  not just the inspiring speeches. They could better understand the reaction to the murder of George Floyd if they also knew about the Chicago police assassination of Fred Hampton or the FBIs efforts to discredit Martin Luther King.

Students should know the origins of Hispanic families in the West who have resided in and made contributions to the U.S. since the formation of the country, but have been undermined by slogans like Make America Great Again.

Native American history and culture should be elevated. Students should be taught the dark truth about tragedies like the Sand Creek Massacre, in which federal troops attacked a peaceful village of the Cheyenne and Arapaho tribes, killing 200 men, women and children. This history is crucial to fully understand the social movements in indigenous communities today.

New York schools should also teach a history curriculum that goes beyond the role of Levittown and the rise of the automobile in the formation of the suburbs and includes the federal governments history of enforcing housing segregation through redlining.

Overcoming our deep national divisions requires all of us to more consciously examine the ways in which racism continues to affect our lives. Theres no better place to start having these conversations than the classroom. New York has an opportunity to lead the way, and its time for lawmakers to act.

Crisanta Duran is director of Democrats for Education Reform New York and was the first Latina Speaker of the House in Colorado.
No doubt youve noticed how, in traditional iconography, the figure of Justice wears a cloth tied over her eyes. You never see her, say, squeezing her eyes shut and saying, Dont worry, I wont peek, trust me. The symbolism here says more than Justice is blind; it also says, Rest assured, were making sure shes impartial.

In a recent foreclosure case, Janet DiFiore, New Yorks chief judge, ruled in favor of clients represented by the law firm Greenberg Traurig. As first reported in the New York Law Journal, there was something Judge DiFiore had not disclosed: Shes a Greenberg Traurig client. The firm is representing her in a lawsuit filed last year over the court systems move to save money by showing a bunch of senior judges the door.

The state Office of Court Administration pretty much shrugged this off. A spokesman said that because the firm was representing the judge in her official capacity, there was no obligation for her to recuse herself.

Thats some mighty fine hair splitting. Courts should do all they can to avoid not only potential conflicts of interest, but also even the appearance of such a conflict. That blindfold is our extra layer of confidence  that the judiciary is fair, and that the system will hold itself to account.

Judge DiFiore should have stepped aside.

A big change for military sex cases?

U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand has worked for years to muster support for a major change to military law. Her efforts may soon pay off.

The senators push to change how sexual assault cases are prosecuted in the military is picking up steam. Her goal: to move such cases outside the chain of command. Letting military commanders decide assault cases presents obvious possible conflicts of interest, and advocates say it discourages many soldiers from reporting assaults for fear of retaliation or other harm to their military careers.

Sen. Gillibrands plan has gained support from key members of Congress. Among them is Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, a combat veteran. Sen. Ernst shares Sen. Gillibrands frustration that despite years of pressure, the armed forces have not meaningfully addressed this problem.

Congress has a responsibility to ensure that as a work environment, the military is safe, fair and equitable. Soldiers have to be able to trust that the system will listen to them, support them, treat them with respect, and see that justice is done. We applaud Sen. Gillibrand for never giving up on that.

Putting the park in Clifton Park

More than four years ago, the Shenendehowa school district was poised to sell a pristine chunk of 37 acres of wooded property for development. More than 1,100 people, though, objected. The district reconsidered, and worked out a deal to sell it to the town of Clifton Park for $1.1 million. Voters approved it in 2017.

Now the vision behind that sale is coming to fruition, with town Supervisor Phil Barrett last week unveiling plans for a park that includes a network of trails including a walkway over a wetland area, space for picnics and other gatherings, and parking for 50 cars. The estimated development price is $2 million to $3 million.

Some things  like open space  are more important than money. Heres to Clifton Park for recognizing that.
Earl Wayne Yost, 88, of Monumental, died on June 7, 2021. Earl Wayne was born on July 14, 1932. The son of the late Earl Livingston and Georgia Ruth Yost. Earl was preceded in death by his daughter, Denise Dawn Yost and three sisters, Letha Fink, Aldine Summers, and Sue Uram. Earl Wayne is s
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 17:55:21|Editor: huaxia

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Mao Yin hugs his parents after being abducted as a toddler 32 years ago in Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, May 18, 2020. (Xinhua/Zhang Bowen)

BEIJING, May 3 (Xinhua) -- Chinese authorities rescued more than 700 missing or abducted children, and arrested 86 suspects since the start of 2021, the Ministry of Public Security said in a statement on Monday.

Some of the children had been separated from their families for more than 30 years. They have been sent back home with the help of local public security bureaus, the statement added.

In a nationwide campaign against abduction, public security organs across the country have cracked child trafficking cases with the help of an "anti-abduction DNA system" and an online platform for releasing victim's information, in a timely manner.

Calling for more efforts to investigate and arrest suspects, the ministry urged the public to support anti-abduction operations and help reunite missing children with their families. 
Pictured is Ange Carson next to the menu of her new establishment, Orphan Angies. The new business, located at what was Dairy Queen on State Route 8, opens on Saturday and offers a multitude of ice cream and food options.
[May 03, 2021] Andy Ellis, Operating Partner at YL Ventures, Inducted into CSO Hall of Fame

SAN FRANCISCO and TEL AVIV, Israel, May 03, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Andy Ellis, Operating Partner at YL Ventures , CEO at Duha and investor and advisor to several cybersecurity startups including Grip Security , Orca Security and Vulcan Cyber , has been inducted into the prestigious IDG CSO Hall of Fame. This recognition is bestowed upon the individuals whose work has advanced the CSO/CISO role, secured business and inspired others in the industry. Ellis will accept the award at the CSO50 Conference + Awards held on November 16-18, 2021.

Recently named Operating Partner at YL Ventures , a prominent seed-stage global venture capital firm investing in Israeli cybersecurity startups, Ellis is a well-known industry leader who pioneered the CSO role over his 20-year tenure at Akamai Technologies. Ellis played a key role in transforming the company into a major security player, increasing its security business to over $1B in annual revenue and building Akamais initial security portfolio. At YL Ventures, Ellis is leveraging his extensive experience to guide Israeli cybersecurity entrepreneurs through ideation and market validation processes pre-investment, as well as support YL Ventures portfolio companies post-investment with product development, go-to-market strategies and customer engagements. Ellis unique expertise also provides tremendous value to YL Ventures Advisory Board of more than 100 global CISOs and cybersecurity experts from Fortune 100 and high-growth companies . I am excited to be in great company with my fellow inductees of security and technology leaders in the CSO Hall of Fame, said Andy Ellis. It is an honor and a privilege to represent the best of senior leaders and I'm humbled to be chosen for this honor among so many in this field. I have been fortunate to have enjoyed a rewarding career and I look forwad to advising and mentoring young founders and supporting them through leadership challenges and understanding customers' needs.



With decades of experience under his belt, Ellis has a wide array of both customer and vendor exposure and a deep understanding of the pain points CSOs have. As an advisor to YL Ventures portfolio companies, he has been pivotal in guiding them through different milestones of their development. Specifically, Andy supported Orca Security in their recent series C round of $210M. Andys understanding of customer security challenges, ability to match technology to business needs, and clear articulation of our value proposition have all been instrumental in helping us achieve unicorn status in under two years, said Avi Shua, CEO and co-founder at Orca Security. Andys real-world experience makes him an incredible asset to us and other Israeli founders, and he deserves this recognition for his outstanding career accomplishments and contribution to the cybersecurity ecosystem.

Another member of the YL Ventures CISO Advisory Board, Renee Guttman , was also inducted into the CSO Hall of Fame. The CISO of Campbell Soup Company is an accomplished information security executive whose career spans 25 years managing risk for global corporations including GlaxoSmithKline, Time Warner and Coca-Cola. The CSO Hall of Fame recognizes leaders who have made significant contributions to the advancement of information risk management and security. The CSO Hall of Fame inductees are selected by the editors of CSO and its advisors and executives. Because of the connected nature of todays business environments, managing the operational risk of any single organization is of vital importance. As organizations face new and evolving threats and shifting risks amid changing business conditions, the value experienced security leaders bring to the business has never been greater, said Amy Bennett, Executive Editor of CSO. Our CSO Hall of Fame inductees for 2021 have built their careers by innovating, leading, and contributing within the security community across many organizations. We look forward to recognizing them at the upcoming CSO50 Conference + Awards and hearing their perspectives on IT security, risk, and business leadership. About CSO CSO is the premier content and community resource for security decision-makers leading business risk management efforts within their organizations. For more than a decade, CSOs award-winning website (CSOonline.com), executive conferences, strategic marketing services and research have equipped security decision-makers to mitigate both IT and corporate/physical risk for their organizations and provided opportunities for security vendors looking to reach this audience. To assist CSOs in educating their organizations employees on corporate and personal security practices, CSO also produces the quarterly newsletter Security Smart. CSO is published by IDG Communications, Inc. Company information is available at http://www.idg.com.

Follow CSO on Twitter @CSOonline

Follow CSO Events on Twitter @CSOevents #CSO50 #CSOHoF

Follow CSO on LinkedIn

Like CSO on Facebook About YL Ventures

YL Ventures funds and supports brilliant Israeli tech entrepreneurs from seed to lead. Based in Silicon Valley and Tel Aviv, YL Ventures manages over $300 million and specializes in cybersecurity. YL Ventures accelerates the evolution of portfolio companies via strategic advice and U.S.-based operational execution, leveraging a powerful network of Chief Information Security Officers and global industry leaders. The firm's track record includes successful, high-profile portfolio company acquisitions by major corporations including Palo Alto Networks, Microsoft, CA and Proofpoint. Heading the fund is Silicon Valley-based Managing Partner Yoav Andrew Leitersdorf, a serial entrepreneur and early-stage investor for over 25 years. Yoav works alongside Partner John Brennan in the U.S., while Partner & Head of Israeli Office Ofer Schreiber leads the Tel Aviv office together with Chief Marketing Officer, Sharon Seemann. With a multidisciplinary team of 15 spread across two offices, YL Ventures has engrained itself in both the U.S. and Israeli cybersecurity ecosystems. For more information, visit ylventures.com . Media Contacts:

Montner Tech PR

Deb Montner

dmontner@montner.com YL Ventures

Sharon Seemann, CMO

sharon@ylventures.com



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[May 03, 2021] Arkansas Virtual Academy Celebrates Commencement

Arkansas Virtual Academy (ARVA), an online public school serving K-12 students throughout the state, will celebrate the Class of 2021 during commencement ceremonies on Saturday, May 8th and Thursday, May 13th. Collectively, the Class of 2021-which includes more than 300 graduates-reports it has been accepted to trade schools, colleges and universities across the country, including: the University of Arkansas, the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, Arkansas State University, Texas A&M University, the University of Memphis, and Pacific Lutheran University. "In a year filled with unprecedented challenges, our graduates have truly thrived in the personalized learning environment we've offered them," said ARVA's Head of School Amy Johnson. "ARVA teachers and staff have been devoted to their academic and personal success. And we're all so proud to celebrate the achievements of our special graduates this year." Students enroll in ARVA for a number of reasons-some are looking to escape bullying, some may have fallen academically off track, and others re looking for an alternative to the traditional classroom setting. ARVA students access a robust online curriculum in the core subjects of math, science, English language arts, history, art and music as well as a host of electives. These live virtual classes are taught by Arkansas-certified teachers.



Details of the graduation ceremonies are as follows: WHAT: Arkansas Virtual Academy 2021 Graduation Ceremonies

WHEN: Saturday, May 8th (in-person ceremonies) / Thursday, May 13th (virtual ceremony)

WHERE: Sign up to watch the virtual graduation here.

About Arkansas Virtual Academy Arkansas Virtual Academy is a full-time public charter school serving students in grades K through 12. As part of the Arkansas public school system, ARVA is tuition-free and gives families the choice to access the engaging curriculum and tools provided by Stride Inc. (NYSE: LRN). For more information about ARVA, visit arva.k12.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210503005005/en/

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[May 03, 2021] AuditBoard and Richard Chambers, Outgoing Head of The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA), Come Together to Advance Profession

AuditBoard, the innovative cloud-based platform transforming how enterprises manage critical audit, risk, and compliance programs, announced today that the industry's most active and influential internal audit spokesperson and thought leader, Richard Chambers, has partnered with the company as Senior Internal Audit Advisor. This relationship establishes a dynamic pairing of two industry forces mutually dedicated to the mission of elevating the audit profession, helping it grow substantially in its strategic influence within the enterprise. In his role as Senior Advisor, Chambers, who as President and CEO led The Institute of Internal Auditors for 12 years before his recent retirement, will partner with AuditBoard on thought leadership, customer advisory, and industry research programs dedicated to advancing the practice of internal audit through education and digital transformation. This potent combination of thought leadership and technological innovation will expand and accelerate AuditBoard's ability to inspire and enable more rapid modernization and maturity of enterprise audit, risk, and compliance management functions. "We're thrilled to welcome Richard and his unparalleled expertise and leadership in the field of internal audit to AuditBoard," said Scott Arnold, President and CEO. "His passion for advancing internal audit, a passion that we not only share but is at the heart of our customer-centric approach, makes him the perfect fit for this role. His unique insights into the challenges and opportunities facing internal audit teams today will help to enhance the way we serve them." "My time at The IIA was so rewarding, and as I considered what was next for me, it was clear that I needed to continue on my life mission to advance the internal audit profession," said Richard Chambers, Senior Internal Audit Advisor for AuditBoard. "AuditBoard naturally stood out as a firm I wanted to align with. In my time with The IIA, I witnessed first-hand their commitment to lifting the audit profession through education and cutting-ege technology. Their goal of empowering auditors to become more strategic contributors to their organizations resonates deeply with me, and I look forward to partnering with them to further elevate and advance the internal audit profession."



The addition of a pre-eminent voice of the internal audit profession comes at a time of accelerating growth for AuditBoard. The company was recently named, for the second year in a row, as one of the fastest-growing technology companies in North America, according to Deloitte (News - Alert) . "The thing that gets me excited about AuditBoard, is the fact their GRC platform has been thoughtfully crafted for members of the profession - it's modern and contemporary, designed to align audit, risk, and compliance professionals and other key stakeholders across the enterprise," said Chambers. "I don't see how Internal Audit can continue to evolve and advance without transforming how they leverage technology to drive change and value. I speak a lot about capacity multipliers and there's really no greater one than an integrated technology platform that can help you do much more with less and make your organization more effective."

About Richard Chambers The CEO of Richard F. Chambers & Associates, a global advisory firm for internal audit professionals, Chambers has more than four decades of internal audit and association management experience, mostly in leadership positions. He became president and CEO of The IIA in 2009, and led The IIA to achieve record global membership and countless milestones over his tenure. Previously, Chambers was national practice leader in Internal Audit Advisory Services at PricewaterhouseCoopers (News - Alert) and vice president of The IIA's Learning Center. He spent the majority of his early career in public sector auditing, including serving as inspector general of the Tennessee Valley Authority; deputy inspector general of the U.S. Postal Service; and director of the U.S. Army Worldwide Internal Review Organization at the Pentagon. Chambers serves on the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) Board of Directors; the International Integrated Reporting Council (IIRC); and The IIA Board of Directors, as well as the Georgia State University School of Accountancy Advisory Council and the University of Alabama Culverhouse School of Accountancy's Professional Advisory Board. He previously served on the U.S. President's Council on Integrity and Efficiency and the National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD) Blue Ribbon Committee for Audit Effectiveness. Accounting Today has named Chambers one of the Top 100 Most Influential People in Accounting. Also, he has been recognized by the NACD as one of the most influential leaders in corporate governance. He is the recipient of the Association of Government Accountants (AGA) Frank Greathouse Distinguished Leadership Award and the National Association of Black Accountants (NABA) Legacy Award. In 2016, Chambers was honored by American City Business Journals' Orlando Business Journal as a top CEO of the Year. Chambers has authored two award-winning books: "Trusted Advisors: Key Attributes of Outstanding Internal Auditors," which was released in early 2017; and "Lessons Learned on the Audit Trail," which is currently available in five languages. In March of 2021, he released his latest book, entitled "Agents of Change: Internal Auditors in an Era of Disruption." About AuditBoard AuditBoard is the leading cloud-based platform transforming how enterprises manage risk. Its integrated suite of easy-to-use audit, risk, and compliance solutions streamlines internal audit, SOX compliance, controls management, risk management, and security compliance. AuditBoard's clients range from prominent pre-IPO to Fortune 10 companies looking to modernize, simplify, and elevate their functions. AuditBoard is the top-rated audit management and GRC software on G2 (News - Alert) , and was recently ranked for the second year in a row as one of the 100 fastest-growing technology companies in North America by Deloitte. For more information: www.auditboard.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210503005158/en/

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[May 03, 2021] AXIM Biotechnologies Introduces Diagnostics to Measure Immunity Against Emerging SARS-CoV-2 Variants

SAN DIEGO, May 03, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- AXIM Biotechnologies, Inc . (OTCQB: AXIM) (AXIM Biotech, AXIM or the Company), an international healthcare solutions company targeting oncological and COVID-19 research, announced today a new ELISA test that measures levels of neutralizing antibodies against six common variants of SARS-CoV-2 virus. The Company has also filed for patent protection for the diagnostic test.

SARS-CoV-2 variants from Brazil, South Africa, California and Britain have been shown to be more infectious and potentially more deadly than the original Wuhan strain due to mutations in the viral spike protein. This has caused concern because current COVID-19 vaccines are based on the spike protein in the Wuhan strain and it is not known how well the vaccines protect against the other variants. AXIM Biotechnologies recently developed a new test that measures levels of immune protection against each of the variants of SARS-CoV-2 in parallel fashion. The test takes less than two hours to complete and can provide an indication of relative risk of infection with each variant. The ELISA test is the most widely used type of immunoassay in diagnostic and research labs. ELISA is a high throughput test used to detect or quantify various biomolecules, including antibodies against pathogens or pathogen-derived proteins. ELISA is simple, sensitive, requires only microliter quantities of test samples and can be automated. John W. Huemoeller II, AXIM Biotech CEO, commented: The new test may also provide vaccine companies with valuable information for how well their vaccines protect against SARS-CoV-2 variants. If vaccine companies begin to include variants in their vaccine, the new test will be able to measure specific protective antibody responses to the variants. We hope this cutting edge work will be helpful as the more infectious variants begin to predominate worldwide. About AXIM Biotechnologies Founded in 2014, AXIM Biotechnologies, Inc. (AXIM) is a vertically integrated research and development company focused on changing diagnosis and treatment for oncology and SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19). AXIMs COID-19 rapid neutralizing antibody test is the first rapid diagnostic test measuring levels of functional neutralizing antibodies that are believed to prevent SARS-CoV-2 from entering the host cells. Additionally, the Company is developing rapid diagnostic tests for the early detection of cancer and proprietary small molecules drugs to treat cancer and block metastasis. For more information, please visit www.AXIMBiotech.com .



Forward-Looking Statements

The statements made by AXIM Biotechnologies Inc., in this press release may be forward-looking in nature within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements describe Axims future plans, projections, strategies and expectations, and are based on assumptions and involve a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the control of Axim Biotechnologies, Inc. Actual results could differ materially from those projected due to there being no assurance that our diagnostic candidate will be successfully shown to detect SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibodies, that the diagnostic candidate will be approved for use by the U.S. FDA or any equivalent foreign regulatory agency, that the diagnostic candidate can be manufactured in large quantities or that third parties with an established presence in blood collection clinics, vaccine development, employer or individual use will enter into agreements or purchase from the Company, and even if the Companys diagnostic candidate is successful, it may generate only limited revenue and profits for the Company, including whether any of Axims diagnostic products will receive clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration or equivalent foreign regulatory agencies to sell its products and whether and when, if at all, they will receive final approval from the U.S. FDA or equivalent foreign regulatory agencies, the fact that there has never been a commercial diagnostic test utilizing neutralizing antibodies approved for use and various other factors detailed from time to time in Axims SEC reports and filings, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on May 13, 2020 and our subsequent quarterly report on Form 10-Q filed on June 30, 2020, and other reports we file with the SEC, which are available at www.sec.gov . Axim Biotechnologies, Inc., undertakes no obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect new information, events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, unless otherwise required by law. CONTACT:

Public Relations Contact:

Kathryn Brown

Account Supervisor

CMW Media

P. 858-264-6600

kathryn@cmwmedia.com

www.cmwmedia.com

AXIM Corporate Contact Info:

6191 Cornerstone Ct., Ste. 114

San Diego, CA 92121, USA

P. 858-923-4422 Investor Relations Contact:

investors@aximbiotech.com

888-759-0844



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Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 19:11:25|Editor: huaxia

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A shop selling Chinese-made smartphones is pictured in Baghdad, Iraq, April 27, 2021. Chinese-made smartphones and laptops have witnessed an increasing demand among Iraqi students for their online learning under the restrictive measures to curb the spread of coronavirus. (Photo by Khalil Dawood/Xinhua)

BAGHDAD, May 3 (Xinhua) -- Chinese-made smartphones and laptops have witnessed an increasing demand among Iraqi students for their online learning under the restrictive measures to curb the spread of coronavirus.

The pandemic affected the Iraqis' daily life and caused great damage to their economy, health, and other sectors, including the educational sector which is already fragile due to wars and conflicts in recent decades.

The rapid spread of the coronavirus prompted the Iraqi government to take a series of measures, including a partial suspension of the study in schools and universities and replacing it with online learning.

As a result, Iraqi students had to buy smartphones and laptops to continue their studies. The Chinese devices, which are not only innovative but also budget-friendly, have become very appealing to many students.

Mohammed al-Azawi, a 20-year-old student at the University of Baghdad, was at a smartphone store looking for affordable and advanced products.

"When the study became online due to the coronavirus pandemic, I, as a student, needed a phone to continue my study. Today, I came to buy this affordable and high-quality tablet phone," said al-Azawi, who was holding a Chinese-made tablet.

Abu Yehia, a Chinese smartphone store owner in his late 40s in al-Mansour district in western Baghdad, said that there is a great demand by Iraqi students on Chinese smartphones.

"There is a huge demand from students on buying Chinese smartphones such as Huawei, Realme, Xiaomi, and Infinix since the spread of the coronavirus in the country because of their great features including long battery life, powerful camera lenses, and very fast processor," Abu Yehia said.

"As for the maintenance, the spare parts are available, affordable, and easy to fix, unlike some other smartphone brands," he added.

The increasing popularity of Chinese tech products in Iraq is not only restricted to smartphones and their accessories but also laptops.

"The Iraqi students prefer Chinese tech devices because they have proven their good quality, outstanding features, and long-life batteries. And the Chinese companies provide warranty and maintenance better than other companies," laptops store owner Twana Dahab, 45, told Xinhua.

In the past few years, the Iraqi market was swarmed with many brands of smartphones and laptops, some of which are too expensive for many Iraqis, especially students.

With the entry of Chinese smartphones for the first time in 2008 to the Iraqi market, the scale of balance has changed, and Chinese smartphones and laptops have been winning popularity and trust among the Iraqi consumers. Enditem
[May 03, 2021] BCI Retail Launches New Website

HAZLETON, Pa., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- BCI Retail of Hazelton, Pennsylvania, identified a need to revamp the store website after recognizing changes in consumer buying habits and advertising. The team at Bradley Caldwell, Inc. wanted to attract a new local demographic and drive in-store sales with a user-friendly website but knew they needed help building and managing a site that could provide that type of impact. The BCI Retail store manager, Charlene Kennedy, looked to New Media Retailer (NMR) for help. Her goal was to have a robust website for local customers to visit after seeing advertisements for the store. Knowing that today's consumer often likes to research online before visiting the store, Kennedy's goal was to help customers see up-to-date product information on the store website. After discussing their goals with New Media Retailer, the team got to work building a new website for the Bradley Caldwell retail store. New Media Retailer worked closely with BCI Retail's Point of Sale system vendor, Integra, to connect the store's POS system to NMR's product database and the website platform Shopify. The result was a consistently up-to-date online presence that reflects BCI Retail's product availability in the store.



The store's new website achieved substantial results within the first two weeks of launching, including: An uptick in foot traffic to the retail store

An increase in phone calls to the store

Growth in local Google rankings for pet products searches

Employees could get all the information they need in one place The team at BCI retail was delighted with the new website and impressed with how fast the results came shortly after going live. New Media Retailer is confident that this store will see tremendous success in the upcoming months and looks forward to assisting with the store's online presence.

BCI Retail is proof that small retail businesses can make great strides with a well-designed, product-focused informational website. Our Organization New Media Retailer helps small businesses overcome the expensive, time-consuming, and technical barriers to a successful online presence. We serve thousands of successful and thriving small business owners as they bring the best customer service and convenience to their communities. To learn more, visit https://newmediaretailer.com/. Contact:

Janet Thomas

607-244-0519

jthomas@newmediaretailer.com View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/bci-retail-launches-new-website-301282392.html SOURCE New Media Retailer

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[May 03, 2021] Boeing Launches Mentorship Program Powered by Tallo

During its 2021 STEM Signing Day celebration on April 29, Boeing (News - Alert) announced that it will offer student honorees exclusive access to a mentorship program facilitated by the company. The new program will be powered by Tallo, the nation's premier online platform for connecting students with opportunities that enable them to pursue future careers. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210503005020/en/ STEM Signing Day recognizes and honors high school seniors pursuing STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) degrees through technical programs and two- and four-year colleges and universities. Boeing and Tallo launched the inaugural STEM Signing Day - modeled after signing days for athletes - in South Carolina in 2017. The program continues to expand, with nearly 2,000 STEM students recognized over the past five years. More than 600 students in 16 states will be honored at STEM Signing Day events this year. Student honorees at this year's virtual event heard from David Calhoun, Boeing president and CEO; Cheri Carter, vice president of Boeing Global Engagement; and Sydney Hamilton, Boeing structures stress engineering manager, as well as other inspiring STEM speakers and local comunity leaders.



"Ultimately it is STEM graduates that deliver on the promises that the world and the universe offer to humanity," Calhoun said. "I don't think it gets any bigger or any more exciting." "This past year has been especially challenging for high school seniors," said Casey Welch, CEO and Co-founder of Tallo. "Tallo and Boeing want to ensure students have the support and guidance to succeed in their first year of college. This mentorship program will allow students to connect with people who once were in their shoes in a familiar, professional setting and empower students to make smart career decisions as they begin their college experience."

The mentorship program will convene in small groups during virtual sessions on Tallo to help students discover high-growth career paths in STEM. The students will have an opportunity to choose career paths of interest to them and be matched with mentors in those fields. Boeing mentors will host sessions over the course of the next year, providing valuable educational and career guidance. "The opportunity to meet others pursuing STEM careers and bond with like-minded peers across the country has been so incredible," said Zoe Boynton, student honoree from First State Military Academy in Clayton, Delaware. "The world of STEM is so diverse and I look forward to getting to know a Boeing mentor and even more peers with similar interests this fall." About Boeing As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. As a top U.S. exporter, the company leverages the talents of a global supplier base to advance economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. Boeing's diverse team is committed to innovating for the future and living the company's core values of safety, quality and integrity. Learn more at www.boeing.com. About Tallo Over 1.4 million talented individuals use Tallo to create digital portfolios to showcase their skills and accomplishments, connect with post-secondary institutions and companies, and access to customized career pathways and financial assistance guidance. Companies, colleges, and governmental entities work with Tallo to develop strategies to micro-target and connect with the Tallo community and build their future workforce pipeline. Tallo helps its partners understand Gen Z and Millennial talent, take a strategic approach to cultivate new and existing talent, and focus on quality matches with candidates who are the right fit. For more information, visit www.tallo.com View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210503005020/en/

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[May 03, 2021] Commercial Real Estate Forecast: Urban Multifamily Properties Will Rebound in 2021

Moody's Analytics today announced new forecasts for commercial real estate (CRE) rents and vacancies covering eight property types and more than 3,000 submarkets across the United States. These forecasts reflect the latest Q1 data on US CRE markets available via the REIS platform, the cornerstone of Moody's Analytics CRE Solutions. The outlook for the apartment sector has taken a positive turn, with effective rents expected to return to near pre-pandemic levels in 2022. National average effective rents fell a record 3.0% in 2020 and are now forecast to rise by 2.1% in 2021. Multifamily markets in dense urban areas such as New York, the Bay Area, and Washington DC were particularly affected by the pandemic but have likely hit their rent low point and begun to recover. Meanwhile vacancy rates across the US are expected to stabilize this year, staying at a national average of 5.2%. "We anticipate that the combination of returnees and first-time movers, now attracted by lower rents, will be enough to stabilize the apartment sector in key urban centers," said Thomas LaSalvia, Senior CRE Economist at Moody's Analytics, "However, the office sector in these areas still has a ways to go before recovery." Much uncertainty surrounds the fate of the office sector and this will likely lead to continuing distress this year. Vacancy rates are forecast to rise to 19.2% in 2021, surpassing the previous cyclical high of 17.6% in 2010. National average effective office rents are projected to fall 5.9% in 2021 from the net effect of hybrid working during COVID-19, intensifying a decrease of 0.6% in 2020. Similarly, we expect the retail sector to continue to deteriorate in 2021 with national average effective retail rents forecast to fall a further 6.8%.Vacancy rates are also predicted to reach an all-time high (12.3%) in 2021 as brick-and-mortar retailers struggle to compete against rising e-commerce sales.



As the retail sector suffers the consequence of the shift to e-commerce, the outlook for the industrial sector is looking up. "We expect the industrial sector to benefit from tailwinds from the robust economic forecast and the continued rise in e-commerce," said Dr. LaSalvia, "The need to warehouse inventory and match consumers' expectations for expedient shipping will provide more than enough absorption to push rents higher and vacancies lower." We now expect the national average industrial sector effective rent to rise by 3% in 2021, compared with our previous forecast of a 0.2% increase-the strongest predicted rent growth among the core property types. The industrial sector is also the only property type with expected declines in vacancy rates in 2021; we predict a fall of 40 basis points to 10.3%.

CRE market participants can access these forecasts through the Moody's Analytics REIS platform and read more on the Moody's Analytics CRE Solutions Insights page. About Moody's Analytics Moody's Analytics provides financial intelligence and analytical tools to help business leaders make better, faster decisions. Our deep risk expertise, expansive information resources, and innovative application of technology help our clients confidently navigate an evolving marketplace. We are known for our industry-leading and award-winning solutions, made up of research, data, software, and professional services, assembled to deliver a seamless customer experience. We create confidence in thousands of organizations worldwide, with our commitment to excellence, open mindset approach, and focus on meeting customer needs. For more information about Moody's Analytics, visit our website or connect with us on Twitter and LinkedIn. Moody's Analytics, Inc. is a subsidiary of Moody's Corporation (NYSE: MCO). Moody's Corporation reported revenue of $5.4 billion in 2020, employs approximately 11,500 people worldwide and maintains a presence in more than 40 countries. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210503005530/en/

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[May 03, 2021] Crestone Services Group Acquires Specialized Communication Services, LLC

DENVER, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Crestone Services Group, LLC, ("Crestone"), a Denver based communications and utility services company, is pleased to announce the acquisition of Specialized Communication Services, LLC ("SCS" or the "Company"), a leading Utah and Nevada telecom infrastructure service provider. Founded in 2004, SCS provides design, engineering, construction, and maintenance services to wireless carriers, phone and internet service providers, and state departments of transportation. The Company will continue to operate as Specialized Communication Services, LLC and be led by the Company's founder Tony Certonio. The acquisition of SCS adds Utah and Nevada, two of the nations fastest growing states, to Crestone's platform. "Along with this being a terrific standalon business, SCS furthers our strategy of assembling concentrated assets in what we believe are the most attractive markets in the country. Crestone's density of resources centered in Phoenix, Las Vegas, Salt Lake City and Denver, produces synergies that a scattered footprint would prohibit. This is one of our value creating differentiators," said Rick Barrett, CEO of Crestone Services Group.



Tony Certonio, President of SCS added, "We are excited to join Crestone and see this as a terrific partnership. Crestone allows us to continue serving our longtime customers while gaining access to additional resources to support our future growth". About Crestone Services Group

Crestone Services Group, LLC, ("Crestone" or the "Company"), was formed in 2015 to develop a leading utility services company pursuing strategic acquisitions in the communications, power, and gas utility markets. To date, the Company has completed eleven acquisitions of businesses supporting communications carriers and public utility owners. Crestone is a joint investment between Diamond State Ventures, Banyan Investment Partners, Asydan Capital Management, Post Road Group and ORIX Corporation USA's Special Opportunities Group and is led by former Blackeagle Energy Services CEO, Rick Barrett. Further information is available at www.crestoneservices.com View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/crestone-services-group-acquires-specialized-communication-services-llc-301281905.html SOURCE Crestone Services Group

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[May 03, 2021] Danish Microscope Manufacturer TAGARNO Establishes Subsidiary in Georgia, Aims to Quadruple US Market Share

TAGARNO, the leading Danish microscope manufacturer, announced today it is establishing a subsidiary in Tucker, Georgia, with a dedicated team to market, sell and service its unique digital microscopes. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210503005408/en/ TAGARNO's digital microscopes optimize work processes and improve ergonomics as lab staff no longer need to bend heads over eye tubes of analog microscopes. At Nordic Seed, a TAGARNO microscope now performs seed purity testing procedures, replacing magnifiers and stereo lights that caused massive head aches, stiff necks and frequent sick leaves. (Photo: Business Wire) The company, which was founded 68 years ago in Denmark, has since 2013 operated via a local dealer in the US, where agent Sam Armstrong has established TAGARNO as a premium brand. Now American buyers of microscopes will have direct access to the company's innovative technology. The move ensures a strong presence in a large and important market for TAGARNO, where its technology can enhance productivity and improve the work environment of many more users; Eight out of ten microscope operators suffer from musculoskeletal pain from awkward work postures such as repeatedly bending the head over the eye tubes of analog microscopes. TAGARNO's digital microscopes significantly improves ergonomics as operators now obsere the magnified images on computer monitors where they quickly and easily can measure parts, spot impurities and inconsistencies, document and share their work. The end result is an optimized process that reduces scrap rates and boosts competitiveness.



TAGARNO hand-picked Jake Kurth, who has 11 years' experience in the microscope industry, to lead the US expansion. "I am extremely pleased to join the TAGARNO team and greatly look forward to supporting TAGARNO's distributors and sales reps within the United States as we work to grow TAGARNO's business," says Jake Kurth. "TAGARNO microscope systems have the ability to make a truly meaningful impact on virtually any industry that has a need for magnified viewing," says Kurth. "These systems are fundamentally high-quality digital microscopes built around imaging, supported by TAGARNO's focus on customer-driven applications and firmware/software updates. The end result is a microscope system that is very good at what it does and provides unique tools to aid in our customers' work," explains TAGARNO's new country manager, adding that TAGARNO microscope systems come at a solid price point, providing a microscope system that evolves over time, and are uniquely in tune with customers' needs at any scale. "There are a lot of exciting updates coming and will continue to come. I am proud to play a part in the bright future of TAGARNO."

Modules and apps create sustainable microscopes TAGARNO CEO Betina Svendsen Ebdrup explains that the company's goal is to quadruple top-line growth by 2025. "Digitalization has significantly expanded the potential areas where microscopes can be utilized. Laboratories and manufacturing companies can now optimize and automate many more forms of analytical tasks and quality control processes by leveraging machine learning and AI," says Betina Svendsen Ebdrup. "That is why we are building a scalable business to meet the expanding need for microscopes in an ever-widening range of industries and sectors." TAGARNO is a frontrunner in the market, enabling customers to flexibly update their digital microscopes with modules and apps that add new functionality. Later in 2021, TAGARNO will launch a series of flexible, modular product innovations to both its hardware and software based on the principle of user-driven innovation. "We have eliminated the concern that technology investments are not future-proof," says Ebdrup. "The modular structure of our products means that they can be continuously updated both in terms of hardware and software, so customers won't need to discard their products every few years. This supports our deep commitment to providing sustainable solutions." The US microscope market has an estimated total value of $885.2 million in 2021 and is expected to grow to $1.16 billion in 2026, according to Optima Insights. Microscope users define roadmap As a well-established player in the microscope market, TAGARNO often receives inquiries about new applications from manufacturing companies, but also from government organizations that want to use microscopes for new tasks and new materials. This can entail areas such as color control, measurement sizes, identification of foreign bodies or impurities, precision and quality control. "It is in our DNA to innovate with our customers and ensure that our product development aligns with the requirements and processes of microscope users. We develop apps and hardware that reinforce operators' technical domain knowledge and experience, and provide critical support to compensate when the human eye falls short," says Ebdrup. Download images: Here ABOUT TAGARNO TAGARNO's digital microscopes are used for visual inspection and quality control in a wide range of industries. In combination with high-definition cameras that magnify objects in excellent image quality, user-friendly software applications pave the way for accurate and objective analysis, which can be easily captured and shared with colleagues and supply chain partners. www.tagarno.com View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210503005408/en/

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[May 03, 2021] Florence Healthcare Recognized as Biggest Impact Company at Georgia Technology Summit

Florence Healthcare, the leading platform for electronic document and data workflow management and remote connectivity in clinical trials, has been selected as the Biggest Impact Company in Georgia by the Technology Association of Georgia (TAG). This recognition is in addition to being named to TAG's 2021 Top 10 Innovative Companies in Georgia. The Top 10 companies were selected from the Top 40 Innovative Technology Companies competition and presented at the 2021 Georgia Technology Summit in April. The Top 40 recognition is awarded based on specific criteria focused on innovation, including degree of innovation, scope and financial impact of innovation and likelihood of success. Eligible companies must be Georgia-based and focused on the creation, development and dissemination of technology. During the summit, Florence was voted and selected for the additional Biggest Impact Company award. Since 2014, Florence has helped clinical research sponsors, contract research organizations and clinical research sites by advancing trials through software for managing document and data flow between sites and sponsors. Florence has always been at the forefront of innovation in the industry and saw an opportunity over the past year to solve inefficiency in the clinical trial process - data review and verification. Through its Remote Site Monitoring technology, Florence addresses these inefficiencies, enables hybrid and decentralized trials and supports greater patient outcomes. "Florence's innovations not only impact the local Georgia ecosystem, but support meaningful work that benefits the global community - specifically by enabling remote research that powers COVID-19 vacine research," states Florence CEO Ryan Jones. "Atlanta is home to some of the very best in medicine and research, and we're thankful to play a part in the industry while supporting the crucial work of clinical researchers during this time.



To continue innovating at this level, Florence has plans to grow its team of mission-driven employees and is currently hiring for several positions. The entire Top 10 list is comprised of Florence Healthcare, Codoxo, MileAuto, PadSplit, Roadie, Stord, Ternio, Verusen, Voxie and Ware2Go. Details about each company and the Georgia Technology Summit can be found here.

POWERED BY FLORENCE Based in Atlanta, Florence is the leading platform for remote connectivity and electronic document workflow management in clinical research and is considered the industry standard with more than 8,000 research sites in 30 countries, sponsors and CROs collaborating on its network. Florence advances clinical trials through software for managing document and data flow between research sites and sponsors. Florence solutions foster 25% faster start-up time and 40% reduced document cycle time, among other benefits. To learn about advancing research through collaboration, visit www.florencehc.com. About the Technology Association of Georgia (TAG) TAG's mission is to Connect, Promote, Influence and Educate Georgia's technology ecosystem to advance the innovation economy. Through those four foundational strategies TAG serves the technology community, helping to support, grow and ignite tech leaders, companies and the overall Georgia economy. TAG serves more than 30,000 members statewide through regional chapters in Metro Atlanta, Augusta (News - Alert) , Columbus, Macon/Middle Georgia, and Savannah. TAG hosts more than 150 events each year and serves as an umbrella organization for 26 professional societies. TAG provides networking and educational programs; celebrates Georgia's technology leaders and companies, and advocates for legislative action that enhances the state's economic climate for technology. Additionally, the TAG Education Collaborative (TAG-Ed) focuses on helping science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education initiatives thrive. For more information visit the TAG website at www.tagonline.org. To learn about the TAG-Ed Collaborative visit www.tagedonline.org. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210503005128/en/

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[May 03, 2021] Generational Equity Advises MVP Consulting Plus in Sale to Speridian Technologies

Generational Equity, a leading mergers and acquisitions advisor for privately held businesses, is pleased to announce the sale of its client, MVP Consulting Plus Inc. to Speridian Technologies. The acquisition closed December 29, 2020. Located in Albany, New York, MVP Consulting Plus (MVP) provides government and private sector clients with thousands of technical support services and application development resources. Over its longstanding history, MVP has developed a solid reputation for providing competitively priced, timely, and high-quality skills, products, and capabilities. The Company maximizes value for its clients through unique channel partnerships to deliver application development and IT support including critical domains such as data analytics, cyber security, and infrastructure. Founded in 2002, as a minority and woman owned business, MVP provides IT staff augmentation services and leading technology hardware and software sales to a diverse customer base of government and private sector clients across the northeastern and southeastern U.S. Speridian Technologies (Speridian), located in Albuquerque, New Mexico was founded in 2003, and offers application development, analytics, digital marketing, cloud infrastructure and machine learning globally. Endorsed by industry experts and the media alike, Speridian has consistently been recognized for its phenomenal growth and technology prowess in the highly competitive IT services industry. "The deal opens up the opportunity for Speridian Technologies to expand its presence in the public sector in New York. MVP has direct relationships with people at the New York state government, and partnerships with larger organizations such as IBM (News - Alert) ," said Speridian CEO Ali Hasan. "The two companies subcontracted for each other in the past," Hasan added. "The deal with MVP will complement our growth strategy with operational synergies. New York is a strategic region for Speridian, and together ith MVP we will strengthen our public sector solutions portfolio, working to help modernize government agencies to meet the demands of the new normal," Hasan said. Stephen Miller, president of MVP Consulting, will continue to lead the acquired company.



Generational Equity Executive Managing Director, M&A-Technology Practice Leader, David Fergusson, with the support of Vice President, Mergers & Acquisitions, Corey Painter, successfully closed the deal. Senior Managing Director Rick Buchoz established the initial relationship with MVP. "Recognized throughout the industry for delivering a transformative digital product and services offering to a premier client base, MVP has established a clear leadership position in the market nationwide," said Fergusson. "In combination with Speridian, whose reputation for customer service ranks amongst the highest, we expect the organizations will continue to achieve extraordinary results."

About Generational Equity Generational Equity, Generational Capital Markets (member FINRA/SIPC), Generational Wealth Advisors, Generational Consulting Group, and DealForce are part of the Generational Group, which is headquartered in Dallas and is one of the leading M&A advisory firms in North America. With over 250 professionals located throughout North America, the companies help business owners release the wealth of their business by providing growth consulting, merger, acquisition, and wealth management services. Their six-step approach features strategic and tactical growth consulting, exit planning education, business valuation, value enhancement strategies, M&A transactional services, and wealth management. The M&A Advisor named the company the 2017 and 2018 Investment Banking Firm of the Year and 2020 Valuation Firm of the Year. For more information, visit https://www.genequityco.com/ or the Generational Equity press room. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210503005060/en/

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[May 03, 2021] Global Cyber Alliance Bolsters Cyber Defences to Safeguard European Journalists

GENEVA, May 03, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today, in recognition of World Press Freedom Day, the Global Cyber Alliance (GCA), with the support of the US Mission to International Organizations in Geneva, brought together leading cybersecurity and privacy experts from the journalism community to underscore the need to protect journalists and their ability to cover news with freedom and journalistic integrity. The event, Protecting Free Press in a Connected World, included a workshop to educate members of the European media on how to bolster their cyber defences using tools from the GCA Cybersecurity Toolkit for Journalists.

The event, sponsored by the U.S. Mission to International Organizations in Geneva , focused on raising awareness of digital threats and disseminating the toolkit to journalists throughout Europe. GCA aims to promote a human rights-based approach to cybersecurity; a cybersecurity centred on the security of individual users that are most impacted by cyberthreats, rather than opposing rights to security. Cybersecurity is not experienced evenly by everyone. Human rights defenders, journalists, and people in positions of marginalisation or vulnerability can experience particular risk. To protect journalists and their sources, GCA developed a Cybersecurity Toolkit for Journalists to serve as a free, operational resource for journalists, watchdogs, and small newsrooms enabling them to shore-up their digital defences. It provides a set of tools that journalists can use to protect their online presence, ensuring that their work remains under their control and helping maintain trust with their audiences through reputation management. The toolkit is oriented towards professionals who depend on their own devices, whether they are freelancers, work for small institutions, or spend a lot of time in the field. It is an acknowledgment of where the industry has headed, while also recognizing the rapidly-changing risks online-based news invites. Watchdogs, such as those which work with vulnerable sources or manage large amounts of sensitive data, can also benefit from the tools laid out in the toolkit. The free tools include encryption of data, set-up of automatic backups, secure communications, and more. The toolkit follows best practice recommendations provided by the Center for Internet Security (CIS), the UKs National Cybesecurity Centre (NCSC), and Australias Cybersecurity Centre. These global guidelines provide the blueprint for the organization of the toolkit and selection of the tools included. To support adoption and use of the toolkit, GCA has also made a community forum available where members of the journalism community can pose questions, share challenges and experiences, propose solutions, and interact with each other and GCA cybersecurity experts.



To achieve GCAs mission of reducing cyber risk, we work to unite communities and scale cybersecurity solutions. The GCA Cybersecurity Toolkit for Journalists reflects this approach. We designed and engaged an advisory group and held listening sessions with a varied team of journalists. These discussions provided vital input to the toolkit, said Megan Stifel, Executive Director, Americas; Director, Craig Newmark Philanthropies Trustworthy Internet and Democracy Program. We are also devoting ongoing efforts to adapt our solutions to various regions. The European Launch of the GCA Cybersecurity Toolkit is a first engagement to the development and implementation of the toolkit in Europe, and we are very grateful for the support of the U.S. Mission in Geneva and Craig Newmark Philanthropies, the toolkit sponsor, for making it possible. Support for the toolkit comes from Craig Newmark Philanthropies as part of a growing portfolio of initiatives to build trust in the Internet and democracy.

My high school history teacher once said that a trustworthy press is the immune system for democracy. As our world and work becomes ever more connected, the press in particular has become a target. Journalists around the world are constantly at risk of those who seek to disrupt and undermine their ability to shed light on the truth. Good cyber hygiene for journalists is more imperative than ever - to protect themselves, their work, and their sources," said Craig Newmark, founder of craigslist and Craig Newmark Philanthropies. Vigilance must be maintained. I encourage all members of the fourth estate to shore up their cyber defenses and to use the GCA toolkit as a means to do so. "State actors and government-led interference saw the criminalisation of journalists in 2020, causing unprecedented damage to the practice of free and independent journalism. Amidst the intensifying online abuse of news media and the ever-increasing threat to the personal safety of journalists, it is critical for practitioners to acquire the tools and skills to safeguard their online presence and data, said Derek Bowler, Head of Social Newsgathering, Eurovision News Exchange, EBU Media and moderator of the panel discussion. Journalists are under constant threat  and many dont have access to the support provided by large organisations. GCAs initiative could hardly be more timely, and Ive no doubt it will make an enormous contribution to mitigating those threats and supporting journalism, said Martin Turner, CEO, Full Frame Technology, former BBC journalist and GCA Toolkit Advisory Group Member. The GCA Cybersecurity Toolkit for Journalists can be found at https://gcatoolkit.org/journalists . About the Global Cyber Alliance

The Global Cyber Alliance (GCA) is an international, cross-sector effort dedicated to reducing cyber risk and improving our connected world. We achieve our mission by uniting global communities, implementing concrete solutions, and measuring the effect. GCA, a 501(c)(3) in the US and a nonprofit in the UK and Belgium, was founded in September 2015 by the Manhattan District Attorneys Office, the City of London Police, and the Center for Internet Security. Learn more at www.globalcyberalliance.org . About Craig Newmark Philanthropies

Craig Newmark Philanthropies was created by craigslist founder Craig Newmark to support and connect people and drive broad civic engagement. It works to advance people and grassroots organizations that are getting stuff done in areas that include trustworthy journalism & the information ecosystem, voter protection, gender diversity in technology, and veterans & military families. For more information, please visit: www.CraigNewmarkPhilanthropies.org Aimee Larsen Kirkpatrick

Global Communications Office

alkirkpatrick@globalcyberalliance.org



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Global Risk Solutions Cuts Ribbon at GRS Learning & Training Institute?

Global Risk Solutions, Inc., a leading provider of a diverse range of P&C claims adjusting, complex/large loss and environmental risk management solutions, has formally opened the doors of its newly constructed GRS Learning & Training InstituteSM.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210503005180/en/

GRS staff attend the ribbon cutting (Photo: Business Wire)

The knowledge center programs were launched in late 2020, during the global pandemic, while the facility was being built. GRS continued to offer remote classes and training on property and casualty claims and other industry related topics. Now that the facility is officially open, GRS will offer in-person training.

Previously, GRS announced Charles H. Lowe, Senior Vice President of Learning and Development, will oversee the institute, wih the support of Carlos Sylvester as Training Manager.







"The GRS Learning & Training InstituteSM is a state-of-the-art facility, designed to deliver first-class training to independent claims adjusters as well as claims staff from insurance companies," said Arthur "Kip" Radigan, Group CEO of GRS. "It is a natural extension of our mission to deliver people, process and technology to serve our clients' needs, and we're proud to officially open this facility in Florida. Located in the Sarasota/Bradenton area, our complex welcomes visitors."

Charles Lowe added: "Through the GRS Learning & Training InstituteSM, we are developing virtual and in-person programs to train adjusters at all experience levels. Classes will cover topics including policy language, estimating, customer service, material identification, and all facets of field and desk claim adjusting. We also are developing specialized training for adjusters working with all of GRS' business units: Property & Casualty SolutionsSM (PCS), Environmental Risk Management SolutionsSM (ERMS) and Complex Claims SolutionsSM (CCS)."

For more information or to visit the GRS Learning & Training InstituteSM, contact GRS at 941.901.4773 or contact Charles Lowe at clowe@globalrisksolutions.com.

About Global Risk Solutions

Global Risk Solutions enables corporate and insurance industry clients to respond quickly and effectively to property and casualty claims, by delivering people, process and technology to manage risk and contain costs. Headquartered in Miami, with global reach and offices in London and throughout the United States, we offer a diverse range of claims adjusting and environmental risk management services. For more information, please visit www.globalrisksolutions.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210503005180/en/
[May 03, 2021] KT Corp. Files 2020 Annual Report on Form 20-F

SEOUL, South Korea, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- KT Corporation (NYSE: KT), South Korea's largest telephone and Internet company, announced today that it has filed its Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2020 with the Securities and Exchange Commission of the United States. The report can be accessed on KT's English website at https://corp.kt.com/eng in the Investors section under Business Report as well as the SEC's Edgar database at www.sec.gov. Shareholders may also request a hard copy of the Annual Report that includes audited financial statements of 2020, free of charge, by sending an e-mail to the Company's IR department at ktir@kt.com. About KT Corporation (KRX: 030200; NYSE: KT) KT Corporation is the largest integrated telecom and digital platform service rovider based in South Korea. Principal services include mobile, Broadband, IPTV, B2B communications, fixed-line telephony. The Company has strong market presence in Broadband, and media services, fixed-line telephony by maintaining the No.1 market share positions. Also, the company has the No.1 player in B2B communications and expand to the digital transformation services (IDC, Cloud, AI, etc.) Additionally, the Company possesses a well-balanced portfolio of diverse subsidiaries such as media/content, financial services, real estate developments and commerce.



Forward-Looking Statements This communication contains "forward-looking statements" that are based on our current expectations, assumptions, estimates and projections about us and the industries in which we operate. The forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties. Generally, these forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "project," "should," and similar expressions. Those statements include, among other things, the discussions of our business strategy and expectations concerning our market position, future operations, margins, profitability, liquidity and capital resources. We caution you that reliance on any forward-looking statement involves risks and uncertainties, and that although we believe that the assumptions on which our forward-looking statements are based are reasonable, any of those assumptions could prove to be inaccurate, and, as a result, the forward-looking statements based on those assumptions could be incorrect. The uncertainties in this regard include, but are not limited to, those identified in the risk factors discussed above. In light of these and other uncertainties, you should not conclude that we will necessarily achieve any plans and objectives or projected financial results referred to in any of the forward-looking statements. We do not undertake to release the results of any revisions of these forward-looking statements to reflect future events or circumstances.

View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/kt-corp-files-2020-annual-report-on-form-20-f-301282030.html SOURCE KT Corp.

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Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 19:16:33|Editor: huaxia

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ADEN, Yemen, May 3 (Xinhua) -- Forces loyal to Yemen's government managed to capture key areas from the Houthi militia in the country's southern province of Dhalea on Monday, a government official told Xinhua.

Following two days of intense battles, the pro-government forces registered crucial wins and captured a number of villages from the Houthis' grip in Dhalea's northwestern parts, the local official said on condition of anonymity.

The pro-government forces killed nearly 23 members of the Houthi militia group in the battles that are still occurring sporadically in Dhalea fronts, the source said.

No information was given about casualties among the pro-government soldiers during the military campaign that drove the Houthis out from Dhalea's villages.

But medical sources confirmed to Xinhua that about 10 soldiers of the pro-government southern forces were killed by the Houthi militia.

Meanwhile, the Houthis-affiliated Masirah television network reported that their fighters repulsed an offensive of the Saudi-backed Yemeni government forces towards the Qataba district of Dhalea.

It said that "dozens of aggression mercenaries (pro-government forces) were killed after aborting their large offensive against the rural areas in Dhalea."

In 2019, the Iran-allied Houthi fighters launched a series of intense armed attacks on the positions of the Yemeni government forces and succeeded in seizing key areas on the outskirts of Dhalea.

The areas in the north and west of Dhalea have been witnessing non-stop fighting between government forces and Houthi fighters for about five years.

Yemen has been plagued by a civil war since late 2014 when Houthi militias forced the internationally recognized government of President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi into exile. Enditem
[May 03, 2021] LEAP Announces Franchisee in Arizona

MESA, Ariz., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- LEAP Legal Software is proud to announce that Bill Moritz of The Moritz Group has become the exclusive franchisee for LEAP Legal Software in the state of Arizona and will operate as LEAP Arizona. Arizona law firms will receive a unique experience from the demonstration, sale, installation, training, and support of LEAP Legal Software. Developing a relationship with a franchisee in Arizona allows LEAP to specialize service to the Arizona legal industry. The Moritz Group, based in Mesa, Arizona, is a legal practice management market leader in Arizona, with a focus on trust accounting best practices. Bill Moritz, ounder, is recognized by the Arizona State Bar as an expert in both Trust Accounting and Case Management. Bill explains, "we have extensive experience in legal technology and accounting. We are uniquely equipped to meet the needs of attorneys and recognize innovation that enhances firm productivity. The Moritz Group is known in Arizona for providing quality technology service solutions to attorneys."



Peter Baverstock, LEAP US CEO, elaborates that "the legal industry is different in every state. To best serve all lawyers in the US, it is important that LEAP have business owners and state holders with specialized knowledge of the law and legal industry in their state. LEAP has a focus on providing localized support. By doing so, we help lawyers simplify their IT, reduce their overhead, and make more money. Bill and his company are leaders in Arizona and the legal industry, and we are proud to partner with him." To learn about how LEAP helps Arizona firms, visit leap.us/arizona/.

For more information, please contact:

LEAP Arizona

854 North Ashbrook

Mesa, AZ 85213

www.leap.us/arizona/ View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/leap-announces-franchisee-in-arizona-301279445.html SOURCE LEAP Legal Software

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[May 03, 2021] Lear Leads Latest Investment Round in Flexible Circuit Maker CelLink

SOUTHFIELD, Mich., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Lear Corporation (NYSE: LEA), a global automotive technology leader in Seating and E-Systems, today announced that it is the lead investor for the Series C round of financing in CelLink Corporation, a San Carlos, CA-based manufacturer of a new class of flat and flexible circuits that minimize complexity, space and weight. With simplified designs, automated production and handling, and optimized electrical and thermal performance, CelLink's technology is a key enabler for electrified and software-defined vehicles offering zero-emission transportation, driver assist technologies, customized comfort options, advanced user experiences, and more. One application of this technology is being deployed in electric vehicle (EV) battery packs that house a bank of cells together with hundreds of parts and connections. CelLink's solution integrates busing, fusing, voltage monitoring and temperature monitoring wiring systems into a single circuit  an important feature that is reducing the cost of battery technologies and increasing the rate of adoption of EVs. This is accomplished with zero design-specific tooling, allowing for instantaneous and virtually capital-free design changes  a powerful benefit in an increasingly just-in-time manufacturing world. Outside of the battery module, CelLink is boosting its caabilities to mass produce flat and flexible circuits that offer class-leading performance in smaller packaging footprints, including a new product, co-designed with Lear, that will be incorporated into an EV from a global automotive manufacturer launching in 2021.



"Since our initial investment in 2019, we have been encouraged by CelLink's progress in developing a high value, differentiated wiring harness technology while reducing materials, packaging and weight," said John Absmeier, Lear Chief Technology Officer. "We see opportunities to expand Lear's E-Systems business and take a leadership role in flat flexible circuit technology and connection systems by continuing to partner with and invest in CelLink." CelLink's products reduce wire harness weight by more than 70% and volume by more than 90% relative to existing wiring technologies. In addition to improving vehicle range by reducing weight, CelLink's flat and flexible circuits offer other environmental benefits, including a non-chemical production process and a less metal-intensive product design.

"This marks a significant milestone in our next phase of growth as we strive to provide a new class of lightweight power and data interconnection technology to the automotive industry, with the goals of enabling electrification and addressing climate change," said CelLink CEO Kevin Coakley. "Lear's financial support and customer relationships in the automotive industry are a valuable resource for our company." About Lear Corporation

Lear, a global automotive technology leader in Seating and E-Systems, enables superior in-vehicle experiences for consumers around the world. Our diverse team of talented employees in 38 countries is driven by a commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and sustainability. Lear is Making every drive better by providing the technology for safer, smarter, and more comfortable journeys. Lear, headquartered in Southfield, Michigan, serves every major automaker in the world and ranks 166 on the Fortune 500. About CelLink

CelLink, founded in 2012 by Kevin Coakley and Malcolm Brown, and joined in 2015 by Bruce Graham, manufactures the world's largest and most electrically and thermally conductive flexible circuits. The company's products are ideally-suited to power and signal transmission applications including automotive wiring, battery packs, LED lighting, photovoltaics, and other devices. CelLink was originally funded through a 2014 US Department of Energy Sunshot grant, and has since received a total of $65M in follow-on funding. Please visit www.cellinkcircuits.com for more information. View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/lear-leads-latest-investment-round-in-flexible-circuit-maker-cellink-301281844.html SOURCE Lear Corporation

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[May 03, 2021] MindMaze Expands Global Reach of Digital Neurotherapeutics Portfolio with Four New Partnerships

Bringing the future of brain repair for stroke, Parkinson's, and other neurological conditions to patients in Latin America, Europe and Middle East LAUSANNE, Switzerland, May 3, 2021 /CNW/ -- MindMaze Healthcare, a global pioneer in the multibillion-dollar digital neurotherapeutics market, today announced four new partnership agreements that bring MindMaze's digital neurotherapeutics to patients in Latin America, Middle East, Spain and Switzerland through agreements with Surgicorp, Alkholi, Guttmann Barcelona and Swiss Rehabilitation. With these agreements, MindMaze further expands its novel, protocolized, evidence-based interventions that are the future of brain repair worldwide. MindMaze Healthcare is at the forefront of enhancing patient outcomes through its innovative digital neurotherapeutics (DTx) solutions that combine cutting-edge neuroscience with highly engaging, serious game-based medical software supported by tailored smart peripherals that target two distinct areas: neurorehabilitation (Rehab DTx) and neuro-restoration (Neuro DTx). "MindMaze's evidence-based interventions are leading an international paradigm shift in delivering novel, evidence-based therapies to patients for improved outcomes," noted John Krakauer, M.A., M.D., Professor of Neurology at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Director of the Center for the Study of Motor Learning and Brain Repair, and Chief Medical Advisor to MindMaze. "Importantly, MindMaze digital neurotherapeutic products are used across the continuum of care, from the hospital to home, offering patients a hybrid therapy program delivered through sessions in person and remotely that result in reduced therapy delivery costs and greater patient management and monitoring." The Company's animated therapeutic 'games' aid patients suffering with neurological injuries and conditions such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, multiple sclerosis, or Parkinson's disease. They were created to be as highly engaging as video games while promoting the high dose, high intensity therapeutic movements that lead to restoration of function. "MindMaze products have proved to be the best in the market, as validated by the leading US institutions in the field. Thanks to distributors and partners, we can reach more patients faster, so that people with neurological diseases all around the world can benefit first-hand from these proven engaging and immersive therapies, including from the comfort of their own home," said Jean-Marc Wismer, MindMaze's Chief Operating Officer. "The partnerships collectively expand MindMaze's international footprint, which should further solidify our leadership in brain health while contributing to our top line growth over the coming year and beyond."



About MindMaze's Product Portfolio Digital therapeutics for rehabilitation

MindMotion, a first-in-class tele-neurorehabilitation platform that is cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), is CE marked and reimbursable. ( view patient testimonial here ). Digital therapeutics for neurorestoration MindPod, an immersive FDA-listed and CE-marked neurobehavioral platform based on evidence and prescribed protocols developed at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine .

an immersive FDA-listed and CE-marked neurobehavioral platform based on evidence and prescribed protocols developed at the . Curapy, a novel digital neurotherapeutics product line that includes TOAP Run for Parkinson's disease and X-TORP for cognitive disorders. Supporting devices/smart objects Intento PRO, a CE-marked digital neurotherapeutics solution enabling self-modulated functional electrical stimulation for the upper limb after stroke. Digital assessments Gait Up , digital assessments for measuring and quantifying gait, balance and cognitive function. About Our Partners Alkholi Founded in 1976 by Dr. Hamza Alkholi, Alkholi Medical has been at the forefront of bringing healthcare solutions closer to the people who need it the most in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. From importing medical devices to establishing and operating medical centers, today Alkholi Healthcare Partnerships aspire to grow this legacy by bringing digital therapeutics to homes and remote areas across the Kingdom. Surgicorp Surgicorp has over twenty years of experience in medical biotechnology in Peru, Ecuador and Bolivia. It provides surgical products and advanced medical equipment for high complex procedures and technology transfer for the medical community. The company specializes in Neurosurgery, Orthopedics, Urology and Gynecology, and others. Swiss Rehabilitation With leading rehabilitation centers in Vaud, Swiss Rehabilitation specializes in neurology services. Stroke rehabilitation is one of Swiss Rehabilitation's areas of expertise. Upon discharge from the hospital, Swiss Rehabilitation continues rehabilitation in an outpatient setting, in one of its centers or at home. Guttmann Barcelona, Brain Health and Neurorehabilitation Institute Guttmann Barcelona is a clinic that is specially designed to offer the best diagnosis and most advanced treatments in functional motor, cognitive and behavioural problems that affect people with a neurological disease or neuropsychiatric disorder. Guttmann Barcelona offers comprehensive, holistic and personalised diagnosis and treatment with all the scientific vigour and the hallmark of quality that characterises Institut Guttmann. About MindMaze MindMaze is a global leader in brain technology with a mission to accelerate humanity's ability to recover, learn and adapt. With over a decade of work at the intersection of neuroscience, medicine, and engineering powered by artificial intelligence, the company strives to create the universal platform of brain health and performance. Through its products the company is addressing some of the most challenging problems in neurology, including stroke, Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. MindMaze Labs is the company's R&D division tasked with bringing ground-breaking neuroscience to everyday life. Founded in 2012 by Tej Tadi, Ph.D., MindMaze's Chief Executive Officer, the Company has been valued at over $1 billion and has offices in Lausanne, Baltimore, London, Paris and Mumbai. Learn more at mindmaze.com . Contacts MindMaze Phoebe Alix

Phoebe.alix@mindmaze.ch Media Edna Kaplan

kaplan@kogspr.com View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/mindmaze-expands-global-reach-of-digital-neurotherapeutics-portfolio-with-four-new-partnerships-301282217.html SOURCE MindMaze

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[May 03, 2021] Mythic Markets Launches Trading Capabilities For Pop Culture Collectibles & Memorabilia

SAN FRANCISCO, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Mythic Markets , an investing platform and community for pop culture fans, is excited to announce that it now supports trading capabilities on its platform for investors. Mythic Markets' collection includes vintage comics, trading cards, fantasy art, video games, and memorabilia. As part of this strategic initiative, Mythic Markets chose SEC Registered Transfer Agent Vertalo of Austin, TX and FINRA Registered Broker Dealer Templum Markets LLC of New York to, respectively, assist in managing the digital ledger and create a frictionless trading solution for Mythic to its investor clients. Mythic Markets is currently offering All-Star Comics #8 (Wonder Woman's debut) at $37 per share, the original Metroid video game at $25 per share, and Magic: The Gathering's Benalish Hero original art for $35 per share, with previously sold collectibles including Amazing Fantasy #15 (Spider-Man's first appearance) and Magic: The Gathering's Alpha Black Lotus card. Previously, Mythic Markets simply allowed buyers to purchase fractional ownership or shares of these valuable collectibles with the hope that they will one day be sold for a profit. Alternative assets like collectibles and art have been increasing in popularity for decades. Pop culture collectibles, in particular, have surged in demand since "geekdom" went mainstream. However, opportunities to buy have been prohibitively expensive for most individuals. Now, the Mythic Markets platform will provide the capability for the buying and selling of the ownership interests in the collectible - making the market accessible to fans of all income levels. In order to achieve this type of active marketplace, Mythic Markets has tapped digital transfer agent Vertalo and Alternative Trading System (ATS) provider Templum . Vertalo provides Mythic Markets with a digital transfer agent and data management platform. Templum and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Templum Markets, provide the trading solutions, including trade matching, order management, risk and surveillance, and market data. The continuous trading model provided by Templum and Vertalo will make the investor experience for Mythic Markets far more interactive. CEO of Mythic Markets, Joe Mahavuthivanij, says, "Trading has been our most requested feature since we debuted back in 2019. We're extremely excited to offer our investors a real-time trading system that brings liquidity, price transparency, and investment access to people all over the country. We have been working with Vertalo and Templum to implement a solution for our clients and they have been instrumental in helping Mythic Markets implement trading of these valuable real world assets without the necessity of physical fulfillment." Dave Hendricks, CEO of Vertalo, explains, "Mythic Markets represents the emerging convergence of real world and digital assets. By offering their clients the opportunity to own a digitized fractional ownership of an iconic collectible, Mythic Markets enables more collectors to participate in a vibrant market for iconic pop culture assets, while reducing the amount that they have to invest in order to benefit from any potential upside. Vertalo helps Mythic Markets to offer this service without any customer having to know anything about digital assets, tokens, wallets, or other complex technology that might create buyer or seller friction. The Vertalo team is honored to work with pioneers like Joe, Deb, and Tony at Mythic Mrkets."



For more information on Vertalo, visit www.vertalo.com or stay updated with Vertalo's communications:

Telegram  https://t.me/vertalotoken

Twitter  https://twitter.com/vertalo_?lang=en

Medium  https://medium.com/@Vertalo

LinkedIn  https://www.linkedin.com/company/vertalo For more information on Mythic Markets, visit https://mythicmarkets.com/ or stay updated with Mythic Markets' communications:

Instagram  https://www.instagram.com/mythic_markets/

Twitter  https://twitter.com/mythicmarkets

Facebook  https://www.facebook.com/mythicmarkets

For more information on Templum, visit https://www.templuminc.com/ or stay updated with Templum's communications:

Twitter - https://twitter.com/TemplumHQ

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/templuminc ABOUT VERTALO

Launched after their own March 2018 STO, Vertalo is a B2B SaaS company founded to map the gaps between primary and secondary trading of digital securities offerings. As the 'Operating System for Digital Assets', Vertalo is focused on connecting and enabling the digital asset economy, providing an industry-leading cap table and investor onboarding solution that facilitates direct ownership and direct listing of any private asset. In addition to offering direct issuance services to private companies, Vertalo also offers white-label, licensed, and joint venture opportunities to capital advisors, broker-dealers, and investment banks. A subsidiary of SeriesX, Vertalo is headquartered in Austin, TX with offices in New York City and Seoul. Learn more about SeriesX and Vertalo at www.vertalo.io . ABOUT MYTHIC MARKETS

Mythic Markets is an investing platform that allows fans to buy, sell and trade equity shares of the alternative assets they love. The company facilitates faster, easier, more flexible investment opportunities for buyers who want to jump into high-end collectibles, including the most prestigious and sought-after comics, trading cards, artwork and video games. This curated set of premium collectibles is fractionalized so investors can have more control over their portfolio, avoiding the overheads and challenges associated with physically holding such items while still reaping the financial benefits. Learn more at https://mythicmarkets.com . ABOUT TEMPLUM

Templum Markets is a New York-based broker-dealer and Alternative Trading System (ATS) approved to trade unregistered private securities in 53 U.S. States and Territories, and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Templum, Inc., a trading technology company. Templum is paving the way for investors to participate in new asset classes through integrated market technologies and API's for primary issuance and secondary trading. Templum's combined solution provides liquidity and distribution in private markets by enabling a continuous trading experience for investors, rather than the manual processes currently in place. In doing so, Templum delivers custom trading solutions to power marketplaces. For more information, please visit www.templuminc.com . MEDIA CONTACT

Katie Campisano

Kamp Media Relations for Vertalo

katie@kamprelations.com

1.908.247.8678 View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/mythic-markets-launches-trading-capabilities-for-pop-culture-collectibles--memorabilia-301281912.html SOURCE Vertalo

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[May 03, 2021] Neal Gerber Eisenberg Adds Intellectual Property Partner Emer Simic

Neal Gerber Eisenberg is pleased to announce the addition of Emer Simic as partner in the Intellectual Property practice group. Simic joins from Green, Griffith & Borg-Breen LLP, where she was a partner in their IP Litigation practice. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210503005216/en/ Emer Simic (Photo: Business Wire) Simic's practice focuses on pharmaceutical patent litigation, post-grant review, opinions, and client counseling. She has additional experience in representing both patent holders and defendants in complex Hatch-Waxman and patent infringement disputes, including successfully arguing cases involving co-pending inter partes review proceedings before the U.S. District Court and Patent Trial and Appeal Board. "We are excited to welcome Emer to the firm and our intellectual property practice," said Scott Fisher, Managing Partner of Neal Gerber Eisenberg. "As a veteran litigator in the pharmaceutical and biotech fields, Emer will be an ivaluable asset for our growing roster of life sciences clients."



With degrees in science and IP law from universities in England, Ireland, and the U.S., Simic brings extensive technical understanding of the pharmaceutical, chemical, and biotech spaces and a global perspective to her work. Simic has found considerable success leveraging this knowledge in the development of innovative IP strategies for her clients. Beyond the courtroom, Simic advises her clients' business teams on everything from product development and regulatory strategies to market launch. "Emer's arrival bolsters our already deep roster of IP talent," said Michael Kelber, co-chair of the firm's Intellectual Property practice group. "She enhances our patent litigation capabilities, particularly expanding the scope of our strong life sciences and pharma practice."

In addition to practicing law, Emer is a member of the Board of the Coalition of Women's Initiatives in Law (Chicago Chapter) where she currently serves as Secretary. The Coalition serves to foster career advancement and professional development and provide a support network to help address the many issues facing women lawyers today. "After getting to know Emer during our time together as board members of the Coalition, I'm ecstatic to work alongside her at NGE," said Sonya Rosenberg, a partner in the Labor & Employment practice group. "An insightful leader with a bright legal mind, Emer will be a strong mentor, role model and a true asset in the firm." Simic received her J.D. from Chicago-Kent College of Law, and her Master of Philosophy and B.A. in Natural Sciences from Cambridge University. Before moving to the U.S. from Ireland, Simic earned her Barrister-at-Law degree from the Honorable Society of Kings Inns. Neal Gerber Eisenberg is a leading law firm dedicated to handling sophisticated matters for entrepreneurs, public companies, and private businesses and their owners. More than one-third of the lawyers at Neal Gerber Eisenberg were recognized in 2021 in Best Lawyers, and the firm represents scores of the Fortune 100 and many of the best known private companies. The firm also acts as the trusted advisers to nonprofits, startups, growth companies and entrepreneurs. The firm has built over thirty years of trusted partnerships with clients that span the globe, and we meet each unique client need with the same personalized service and collaboration that provide the most practical solutions for every matter. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210503005216/en/

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[May 03, 2021] Path Robotics Raises $56M to Build the Future of Manufacturing

COLUMBUS, Ohio, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Path Robotics, the Columbus-based AI Robotics company responsible for designing the world's first truly autonomous robotic welding system, today announced it received $56 million dollars in Series B funding, bringing the total invested in the company to $71 million. Addition led the round and was joined by returning investors Drive Capital, Basis Set, and Lemnos Lab. Path Robotics is the only company in the world offering turnkey, robotic welding systems capable of autonomous welding. "Path Robotics is solving a complex and critical problem in our country by bridging the gap between the supply of skilled welders and demand," said Lee Fixel of Addition. "We look forward to supporting the company as it works to lead American manufacturing into the future." Path Robotics is the only company in the world offering turnkey, robotic welding systems capable of autonomous welding. Its A.I.-driven, robotic product is a market disrupto as it redefines industrial robotic welding.



The technology was designed to ensure no system programming and require "no perfect parts." Through proprietary scanning and computer vision technology, the system can see and understand nearly any part it's given with the ability to self-adjust for each unique part. It analyzes where a weld is needed and generates all the planning to execute a clean weld nearly instantly. The system was designed to operate precisely in a manufacturing environment and with highly reflective materials. "Current industrial robotics have very little ability to understand their environment and the task at hand. Most robots merely repeat what they are told and have no ability to improve themselves. Our goal is to change this. The future of manufacturing hinges on highly capable robotics," said Andrew Lonsberry, CEO of Path Robotics.

The number of people entering the welding workforce in America continues to fall while the average age of welders continues to grow. The demand for welders is increasing at 3% per year while the supply is decreasing, creating a shortage in the American welding workforce of 400,000 skilled welders by 2024. This reality, coupled with a pandemic-driven increased demand for onshore manufacturing, is leading to a choke point for American manufacturing across industries. Path Robotics is dedicated to building intelligent robotic systems to reduce this bottleneck and fuel a new generation of American manufacturing growth. "We are excited to partner with Addition," said Lonsberry, "They have a great vision for the future and are committed to working with companies that are striving to bring generational change." The Columbus-based venture capital firm Drive Capital returns as an investor in Path Robotics. "We are thrilled to continue our partnership and investment in Path Robotics. Their A.I. and computer vision technology is solving a large and urgent need for manufacturers around the world," said Nick Solaro, Partner at Drive. "The future of intelligent machines and manufacturing is being created at Path Robotics right now," said Alex Lonsberry, co-founder and Chief Technology Officer. "We are delivering on the promise of what robots can become. Realizing our mission requires a visionary team of partners. We are excited to have Addition working with us to change the world." To learn more about Path Robotics and our revolutionary technology, visit our newly launched website www.path-robotics.com. About Path Robotics

Path Robotics is developing state-of-the-art artificial intelligence, machine learning, and computer vision systems to make industrial robots intelligent. While working on their PhDs at Case Western Reserve University, brothers Andy and Alex Lonsberry discovered a market need for industrial welding robotics. This led to the founding of Path Robotics with Matt Klein and their father, Ken Lonsberry. Our robotic welding systems are transforming the manufacturing industry by allowing hardware to do more with less human input. Visit their website at www.path-robotics.com. Media Contact:

Jessica Ryan

ryan@sppgrp.com

614.638.0130

View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/path-robotics-raises-56m-to-build-the-future-of-manufacturing-301281257.html SOURCE Path Robotics

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[May 03, 2021] PrivaceraCloud Achieves SOC 2 Certification - Latest Offering Now Available on Microsoft Azure

FREMONT, Calif., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Privacera, the cloud data governance and security leader founded by the creators of Apache Ranger, today announced its successful completion of System and Organization Control (SOC) 2 Type 2 audit for PrivaceraCloud. A recognized technical audit, SOC 2 requires companies to establish and follow strict information security policies and procedures, encompassing the security, availability, processing, integrity, and confidentiality of customer data. This latest milestone makes PrivaceraCloud not only the industry's first SaaS data access governance solution, but the first to successfully achieve SOC 2 certification. The new PrivaceraCloud 2.1 release also includes sensitive data discovery and encrypion for Databricks and Snowflake and is available on Microsoft Azure. Learn more here.



"Successfully earning a SOC 2 Type 2 certification is a reflection of Privacera's commitment to following industry best practices to ensure our customers' data is protected by the highest standards of data security, governance, and privacy," said Balaji Ganesan, CEO and Co-Founder of Privacera. "This achievement, and our expanded support for Azure, Databricks, and Snowflake, means our customers can trust that PrivaceraCloud is the industry's most secure path to migrating their analytical workloads to the cloud and centralizing their data access governance." PrivaceraCloud is a fully-managed service that provides data governance capabilities across public cloud services through a single, unified interface. PrivaceraCloud's SOC 2 Type 2 certification proves to its customers that its systems and processes are designed to protect their sensitive data and includes a stringent, formal audit of:

Access management policies

Systems, information, network, infrastructure and personnel security

Risk assessment

Business continuity and disaster recovery plans

Acceptable use

Corporate ethics The independent audit was conducted by Armanino LLP, one of the largest independent accounting and business consulting firms in the United States, who validated PrivaceraCloud's stringent security and governance controls and represents critical consideration, especially for customers in regulated industries, such as telecommunications, healthcare, life sciences, and more. In addition, PrivaceraCloud 2.1 now offers: Expanded accessibility with new support across Microsoft Azure's tech stack , including: ADLS Gen2, Databricks, Microsoft SQL (MSSQL), Snowflake, and Synapse on Azure

, including: ADLS Gen2, Databricks, Microsoft SQL (MSSQL), Snowflake, and Synapse on Azure Sensitive data discovery for Databricks and Snowflake so customers can discover, classify, and tag sensitive data in their Databricks and Snowflake environments on AWS via PrivaceraCloud's data dictionaries, pattern matching, and models

so customers can discover, classify, and tag sensitive data in their Databricks and Snowflake environments on AWS via PrivaceraCloud's data dictionaries, pattern matching, and models Encryption and decryption for Databricks and Snowflake, enabling customers to leverage PrivaceraCloud's encryption APIs frictionlessly across multiple users within their organizations to achieve truly secure multi-tenancy To learn more or to try a free 30 day trial, visit https://privacera.com/try-privaceracloud/. Please tweet: latest PrivaceraCloud offering achieves #SOC2 certification - introduces availability on @Azure and new sensitive #datadiscovery and #dataencryption for @databricks and @snowflakedb About Privacera

Privacera's SaaS-based data security and governance platform enables analytics teams to access data without compromising compliance with regulations such as GDPR, CCPA, LGPD, and HIPAA. Privacera provides a single pane of glass for securing sensitive data across multiple cloud services such as AWS, Azure, Databricks, GCP and Snowflake. Privacera's platform is utilized by Fortune 500 customers across finance, insurance, retail, media, and consumer industries to automate sensitive data discovery and easily manage high-fidelity policy management at petabyte scale on-prem and in the cloud. Headquartered in Fremont, California, Privacera was founded in 2016 by the creators of Apache Ranger and Apache Atlas. Visit www.privacera.com or follow @Privacera on LinkedIn and Twitter. View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/privaceracloud-achieves-soc-2-certification---latest-offering-now-available-on-microsoft-azure-301281920.html SOURCE Privacera

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[May 03, 2021]

Public alerting tests to be conducted in Canada on May 5

OTTAWA, ON and GATINEAU, QC, May 3, 2021 /CNW/ - Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC)

On May 5, 2021, all provincial and territorial emergency management organizations will conduct public alerting tests in Canada, except for Ontario, Quebec, Nova-Scotia and Nunavut. As such, test alerts will be distributed on TV, radio and compatible mobile devices connected to a LTE (long-term evolution) or a newer wireless network (5G) in all provinces and territories.

Ongoing testing of the National Public Alerting System provides an opportunity for stakeholders to validate and improve the system's performance and reliability to ensure it operates as intended in the event of a life-threatening situation.

The messages will be identified as test alerts and will not require Canadians to take action.

They will be sent out according to the following schedule:

May 5, 2021









Alberta 1:55 PM (MDT) British Columbia 1:55 PM (PDT) Manitoba 1:55 PM (CDT) New Brunswick 10:55 AM (ADT) Newfoundland & Labrador 10:55 AM (NDT) Northwest Territories 1:55 PM (MDT) Nova Scotia *no test scheduled* Nunavut *no test scheduled* Ontario *no test scheduled* Prince Edward Island 12:55 PM (ADT) Quebec *no test scheduled* Saskatchewan 1:55 PM (CST) Yukon 1:55 PM (PDT)



For a wireless device to receive a test alert, it must be:

Connected to an LTE wireless or a newer wireless network (5G) at the time the test alert is issued;

Capable of receiving wireless public alerts; and

Equipped with a recent Canadian version of its operating software.

If a mobile device meets these conditions and did not receive the test message, Canadians should contact their wireless service provider.

To learn more about test alerts, Canadians should visit Alert Ready.

Quick Facts

Since January 2019 , hundreds of emergency alert messages were successfully transmitted by emergency management officials to warn Canadians of a potentially life-threatening situation. These alerts have been credited with saving lives.

, hundreds of emergency alert messages were successfully transmitted by emergency management officials to warn Canadians of a potentially life-threatening situation. These alerts have been credited with saving lives. Public alerts are important in times of crisis and have recently been used to relay crucial information to the public regarding the COVID-19 pandemic.

All devices sold by wireless service providers after April 6, 2019 , are expected to be compatible with wireless public alerting.

, are expected to be compatible with wireless public alerting. Compatible devices may react differently to public alerts, depending on the phone's brand, model and operating system.

The National Public Alerting System involves various stakeholders:

Public Safety Canada is the lead federal department responsible for emergency management and coordinates the development of policies for public alerting with federal, provincial and territorial stakeholders.



Emergency alert messages are issued by federal, provincial and territorial governments as well as designated emergency management officials to warn the public of imminent threats, such as fires, tornadoes, floods and Amber Alerts.



Provincial and territorial officials are responsible for issuing scheduled test messages.



Pelmorex Inc. operates the National Alert Aggregation and Dissemination System, which disseminates alerts to broadcasters and wireless service providers.



The CRTC regulates the broadcasting and telecommunications service providers that distribute emergency alerts to the public.



Radio and television stations, and television service providers broadcast the messages.



Wireless service providers deliver alerts to wireless cellular devices.

Related products

Associated Links

Make a complaint or ask a question

Stay connected

Follow us on Twitter at @CRTCeng

Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/crtceng

SOURCE Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission
[May 03, 2021] QuestionPro Survey Finds Majority of Consumers Will Use Apple's "Do Not Track" Feature and Admire Apple for Offering it

AUSTIN, Texas, May 03, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to a national poll of 1,000 adults in the United States by online survey and research leader QuestionPro , consumers are very concerned about apps and companies that track and share their online activity. A large majority plan to use Apples new Do Not Track feature, admire Apple for offering it, and strongly believe other companies should follow Apples lead.

The newest release of Apples iOS 14.5 includes a new feature that makes it easy for users to prevent third party applications, websites and advertisers to track and share information about their online activity. The survey found that consumers are overwhelmingly aware of (92 percent) and concerned about (40 percent moderately and 29 percent very concerned) such activity tracking and sharing by others. More than two thirds of consumers (67.5 percent) expect to use Apples new feature to block third parties, advertisers and apps from tracking their online activity, while 70 percent believe that other companies should follow Apples lead. Last, consumers are glad Apple is making this feature available, with nearly two out of three (65.86 percent) reporting that they appreciate and admire Apple for doing so



Clearly consumers appreciate having more control over who can track and share their online activities and will be taking steps to limit such tracking, said Dan Fleetwood, President of Research & Insights at QuestionPro. Whats more, their belief that others should follow Apples lead and their appreciation for Apples leadership on this should send a signal to app developers and advertisers everywhere. The survey of U.S. consumers was fielded April 29, 2021 and has a margin of error of +/- 3 percent. The survey was conducted using technology and multi-method behavioral fraud detection to verify respondents, including 80+ different security variables which accomplish the following: detection and rejection of suspicious IP addresses; digital fingerprinting; Captcha bot detection; event streaming and analysis, copy paste detection and translation of text detection. Mouse movements on desktops were also tracked.

About QuestionPro

Founded in 2006, QuestionPro is a global provider of online survey and research services that help companies make better decisions through data. From free consumer accounts to robust enterprise-level research, we offer tools for the creation, distribution, and analysis of surveys. We also offer platforms for polling, mobile research and data visualization. Fortune 100 companies rely on us to help unlock insights about customers, employees and the marketplace. With offices in the US, Mexico, Germany, the United Arab Emirates and India, we offer customers 24-7 access to highly trained support specialists and engineers. More information is available at www.questionpro.com . A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d1bb894b-a8e1-4171-bd15-40343ae13d6a

Media Contact John Williams, Scoville PR for QuestionPro 206.660.5503, jwilliams@scovillepr.com

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[May 03, 2021] Securus Technologies Announces New Expansive Post-Incarceration Unit and Welcomes Community Justice Expert as Program Lead

DALLAS, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Securus Technologies today announced the organization's new Post-Incarceration Business Unit, focused on identifying more opportunities to support individuals after release and provide critical resources to foster successful reentry. The organization has also welcomed Alisha James as Senior Vice President and General Manager of the Post-Incarceration team who is responsible for identifying and implementing new ways the organization can prepare and support formerly incarcerated individuals as they re-enter their communities. James' appointment is the latest of a series of executive hires to diversify Aventiv Technologies'  the parent company of Securus - expertise and expand support for those post-incarceration by maximizing the impact of its products and services. James' new role includes driving multiple initiatives to connect critical post-incarceration resources to those who need it most. With more than 15-years of reentry and criminal justice reform experience, her extensive knowledge of the post-incarceration space will help the company identify the technologies and resources necessary to expand the organization's commitment to promoting better reentry outcomes, which serves as a key pillar of its multi-year transformation agenda. "More than 2.3 million Americans are incarcerated each year and up to 95 percent of those are eventually released back into society, yet re-entry programs and resources are ainfully underfunded and often unavailable for those who need them the most," said Yusef Jackson, Senior Executive and Advisor at Aventiv Technologies, parent company of Securus Technologies. "If we want to see change in re-entry outcomes and recidivism rates, we need to make change both inside our corrections facilities and outside in our communities. We are excited for Alisha to establish and lead the Post-Incarceration Business Unit at Securus, helping us expand our reform efforts and better serve those who are incarcerated with the resources they need to make a smooth, successful transition back into society."



James brings extensive experience assisting government and private entities with criminal justice reform measures focused on reentry, pretrial, probation and parole. One of her main focuses will be scaling programs to ensure as many formerly incarcerated individuals as possible are served and collaborating with leading executives of shared service departments across the company to improve business practices. "When Americans are released from prison, they are often not equipped with the resources they need to succeed as they re-enter their communities, perpetuating the cycle of incarceration," said Alisha James, Senior Vice President and General Manager at Aventiv Technologies, parent company of Securus Technologies. "That is why I have devoted my career to serving this population and assisting the public and private sector with critical criminal justice reform and reentry initiatives. I look forward to expanding my work and joining an organization that is dedicated to bettering the lives of the currently and formerly incarcerated."

James is the founder and CEO of QwickTouch, a company that creates pathways for seamless re-entry and successful completion of community supervision by utilizing state-of-the-art technology. She also serves as principal consultant and CEO of James Group Consulting, a firm focused on leadership, strategic planning and criminal justice related initiatives. Previously, James oversaw and managed operations of the Community Supervision division for the Tennessee Department of Corrections. She has been widely recognized as an expert in her field, receiving the Top 40 Under 40 in Law Enforcement award from the International Chiefs of Police Association in 2018. She currently sits on the Association of Women Executives in Corrections and American Probation and Parole Association boards. ABOUT SECURUS TECHNOLOGIES

Headquartered in Dallas, Texas, Securus Technologies, a subsidiary of Aventiv Technologies, serves more than 3,450 public safety, law enforcement and corrections agencies and over 1,100,000 incarcerated individuals across North America. The Aventiv organization is committed to providing emergency response, incident management, public information, investigation, biometric analysis, communication, information management, incarcerated self-service, and monitoring products and services in order to make our world a safer place to live. For more information, please visit www.Aventiv.com. Aventiv is a portfolio company of Platinum Equity. Founded in 1995 by Tom Gores, Platinum Equity is a global investment firm with a portfolio of approximately 40 operating companies that serve customers around the world.

View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/securus-technologies-announces-new-expansive-post-incarceration-unit-and-welcomes-community-justice-expert-as-program-lead-301282385.html SOURCE Securus Technologies

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Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 19:19:16|Editor: huaxia

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SANAA, May 3 (Xinhua) -- Yemen's Houthi rebels said they had fired two ballistic missiles and four bomb-laden drones at a Saudi civilian airport and a military airbase in southern Saudi Arabia at dawn on Monday.

"The attacks hit military targets in the Najran Airport (in Najran city) and the King Khalid Air Base in Khamis Mushait city," Houthi military spokesman Yehya Sarea said in a statement aired by the group's al-Masirah TV.

Both Saudi cities are located near Yemen's northern border.

Meanwhile, Saudi-owned Al-Arabiya TV reported that "the Saudi air defenses intercepted a ballistic missile and three armed drones aimed at Najran," without providing further details.

This has been the second such attack targeting Saudi border cities in nearly 24 hours. The attack on Sunday was foiled, according to Saudi television.

Cross-border missile and drone attacks by the Iran-backed Houthis have escalated since February, when the group began a major offensive against the Saudi-backed Yemeni government army to capture the oil-rich province of Marib in central Yemen.

Yemen has been mired in a civil war since late 2014 when the Houthi militia seized control of several northern provinces and forced the internationally recognized government of President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi out of the capital Sanaa.

A Saudi-led Arab coalition intervened in the Yemeni conflict in March 2015 to support Hadi's government. Enditem
[May 03, 2021] Sixth Street Welcomes R. Martin Chavez as Vice Chairman and Partner

Sixth Street, a global investment firm with over $50 billion in assets under management, is pleased to announce that R. Martin Chavez, Ph.D., has joined the firm as Vice Chairman and Partner. In this new role, Mr. Chavez will help lead strategic initiatives across Sixth Street, including the build of the firm's digital capabilities alongside Chief Information Officer Adam Korn and the Sixth Street Technology team. As a member of the Stanford School of Medicine Board of Fellows and an experienced advisor to leading life-sciences companies, he will also develop software and AI-related themes with the Sixth Street Healthcare and Life Sciences group. Mr. Chavez joins Sixth Street having previously served as Chief Information Officer and Chief Financial Officer at Goldman Sachs. He initially became a Senior Advisor to Sixth Street in January 2021 to provide his expert perspective on the intersection of Wall Street, Washington, DC, and Silicon Valley. Alan Waxman, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Sixth Street, said, "We are excited to welcome Marty full time to the Sixth Street team. Marty's combination of skill, experience, and character strengthens our organization and increases our ability to partner with the world's leading companies and management teams. We look forward to Marty helping us continue to create a dynamic and versatile investment business for the long term." Mr. Chavez said, "The creative energy the Sixth Street team brings to everything they do gives me tremendous confidence in what we are capable of building together. In addition to the development of our engineering environment, I look forward to contributing my passion for converging the life scienes and software as we explore more opportunities to work with companies delivering solutions for our most pressing health challenges."



Mr. Chavez started in his new role on May 1, 2021. Additional Background on R. Martin Chavez

Mr. Chavez currently serves as President of the Board of Overseers of Harvard University. He also serves on the fiduciary or advisory boards of Cambrian, Earli, Grupo Santander, the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Recursion Pharma, Stanford Medicine, and the Stanford Center on Longevity. He is among the most senior Latinos in finance, as well as among the most senior openly gay executives. Prior to joining Sixth Street, Mr. Chavez served in a variety of senior roles at Goldman Sachs, including Chief Information Officer, Chief Financial Officer, and global co-head of the firm's Securities Division. Mr. Chavez was also a partner and member of the Goldman Sachs Management Committee. Mr. Chavez was one of the first developers of SecDB, an early platform that transformed the trading business into a software business. He retired from the firm in 2019. Prior to joining Goldman Sachs, Mr. Chavez was the CEO and co-founder of Kiodex, and Chief Technology Officer and co-founder of Quorum Software Systems. He holds an A.B. magna cum laude in Biochemical Sciences and an S.M. in Computer Science from Harvard, and a Ph.D. in Medical Information Sciences from Stanford. About Sixth Street Sixth Street is a global investment firm with over $50 billion in assets under management and committed capital. Sixth Street operates nine diversified, collaborative investment platforms: TAO, Growth, Specialty Lending, Fundamental Strategies, Infrastructure, Opportunities, Insurance, Agriculture, and Credit Market Strategies. Select current and past representative Sixth Street investments include Airbnb, AvidXchange, Caris Life Sciences, Kyriba, Nektar Therapeutics, Legends, Spotify (News - Alert) , and Talcott Resolution. Our long-term oriented, highly flexible capital base and "One Team" cultural philosophy allow us to invest thematically across sectors, geographies, and asset classes. Founded in 2009, Sixth Street has more than 320 team members including over 145 investment professionals operating from nine locations around the world. For more information, visit www.sixthstreet.com or follow us on LinkedIn. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210503005372/en/

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[May 03, 2021] Texas Tech University Student Named Outstanding Graduate Among 68 Recipients for National Landman Scholarship

Ellarie Sutton of Rocklin, California, has been named the 2021 winner of the prestigious AAPL Outstanding Graduate among graduates from AAPL's accredited colleges or university programs who are pursuing a career as a landman and have demonstrated great leadership in their work, extracurricular activities and student landmen's association. Sutton is a graduating senior from Texas Tech University's Rawls College of Business Energy Commerce program. In addition to the Outstanding Graduate Award, for the 2021-22 academic year, the Landman Scholarship Trust is granting over $297,500 in scholarship awards to 68 graduate and undergraduate students who are engaged in energy-related fields of study in university programs nationwide. "This year's scholarship award recipients from AAPL's accredited programs represent very special attributes," said Nancy McCaskell, CPL, chairman of the Landman Scholarship Trust. "They are the best and brightest, and they have persevered and excelled despite unprecedented obstacles before them. During the pandemic, they have continued to move forward with their dreams. They have learned and participated online, continued to strive as leaders in their own communities and local associations and have provided an example to all of us of dogged determination and academic excellence. We look forward to the impact each will make as future leaders in the land and energy profession. The Landman Scholarship Trust and AAPL pplaud every recipient."



The Landman Scholarship Trust was established in 1959 by the American Association of Professional Landmen, a professional industry association that promotes the highest standards of technical and ethical performance for all women and men engaged in the practice of landwork associated with the stewardship of energy and mineral resources. Since its inception, the trust has granted over $1.5 million in scholarships to students aspiring to careers as land professionals in the energy industry. To be considered for an LST award, an applicant must be a full-time student in a Petroleum Land Management or Energy Management program at one of 15 AAPL-accredited programs. Applicants must also have a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or greater, be a student member of the AAPL and serve as an active member of the student organization associated with their university's PLM/EM major if available.

In addition to scholarship opportunities, the Landman Scholarship Trust covers AAPL student-membership costs for more than 500 college students in AAPL's 15-accredited programs, giving them full access to the association's robust resources in education, networking and professional development. About LST Established in 1959 by the American Association of Professional Landmen, the Landman Scholarship Trust is a nonprofit educational trust that provides academic scholarships to AAPL-accredited programs for the benefit and assistance of deserving and qualified students who desire to obtain a Natural Resource Management degree to pursue a career in the field of petroleum or energy management. About AAPL The American Association of Professional Landmen unites more than 12,500 landmen and land-related professionals throughout 41 affiliated local associations in the United States and Canada. AAPL serves as the voice of the land profession to encourage fair trading terms that work in the best interest of all parties, wise utilization of natural resources and responsible employment of the land's surface. For more information, visit our website at landman.org. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210503005108/en/

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[May 03, 2021] Vice President Harris Swears in NASA Administrator Sen. Bill Nelson

WASHINGTON, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Sen. Bill Nelson took office as the 14th administrator of NASA Monday, after he was given the oath of office by Vice President Kamala Harris during a ceremony at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building in Washington. In his new role at NASA, Nelson will lead the nation's space program as it carries out critical missions, including landing the first woman and first person of color on the Moon with the Artemis program, expanding climate change research, fostering innovation and enhancing the U.S. economy and STEM workforce. "It's an honor to be sworn in by Vice President Harris to serve as NASA administrator, and I look forward to a continued, strong relationship with her as chair of the National Space Council," Nelson said after the ceremony. "I want to thank Steve Jurczyk for his leadership as Acting Administrator over the past few months, helping to carry out the Biden-Harris Administration's priorities and ensure the success of NASA's goals and missions. You've seen the incredible accomplishments at NASA over the past 100 or so days  the proof is in the pudding." As part of the swearing-in ceremony, Vice President Harris and Nelson were joined via video conference by Jim Bridenstine, who preceded Nelson as administrator, and in-person by Charles F. Bolden, who served as administrator from 2009 to 2017. Nelson's family and Pam Melroy, nominee for NASA deputy administrator, were guests at the ceremony.



"I was glad to be joined today by my rock, my wife, Grace, my children, deputy administrator nominee Col. Pam Melroy, and former NASA Administrators Charlie Bolden and Jim Bridenstine, whose standing with me symbolizes the continuity of purpose and bipartisanship," Nelson said. "It's an incredible time for the aerospace sector, and I'm excited to lead NASA's workforce into an exciting future!" "Congratulations, Mr. Administrator, for all the work you've done and all you've dedicated to our country," Vice President Harris said. "I couldn't agree more that this has to be about our nation and what is best for our nation, unencumbered by partisan politics, but based on what we know is the right thing to do."

The U.S. Senate confirmed Nelson to serve as the NASA administrator April 29. Nelson has an extensive history of working with NASA and has been integral to the agency's current successes. Prior to his nomination, was a member-at-large on NASA's advisory council. From 2001 to 2019, Nelson represented Florida in the U.S. Senate, where he served as ranking member of the Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation and led its Subcommittee on Science and Space. Previously, Nelson represented Florida's 9th and 11th districts in the U.S. House of Representatives. While chair of the House space subcommittee, Nelson flew aboard the space shuttle Columbia as a payload specialist on the STS-61C mission in 1986, where he conducted 12 medical experiments including the first American stress test in space and a cancer research experiment sponsored by university researchers. The mission also included Bolden, as pilot. Read Nelson's official biography at: https://www.nasa.gov/feature/nasa-administrator-bill-nelson/ For information about NASA's research, missions, and activities, visit: https://www.nasa.gov View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/vice-president-harris-swears-in-nasa-administrator-sen-bill-nelson-301282621.html SOURCE NASA

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[May 03, 2021] Wolters Kluwer Launches Deposit and IRA Document Suite for Credit Unions

Wolters Kluwer Compliance Solutions has launched the Deposit and IRA Document Suite (DIDS), an offering that is tailored for credit unions. The Suite features a full library of deposit and IRA (individual retirement account) banking documents, with access to both tailored and static content, including IRA amendments, and unlimited rights to warrantied deposit disclosure language. This content is available in paper or electronic formats. The Suite allows credit unions to monitor and adapt content for use at the federal, state and local levels, providing consistent and universal disclosure language. A compliance editor capability provides users with guidance in developing customized text for deposit disclosures. "Trying to remain competitive, while managing increasingly unpredictable risks, regulations, trends, and consumer demands, is a challenge for many credit unions as they work to serve their members. And in the rapidly evolving financial services environment, where change in financial regulations is a constant, understanding the impact of those changes is critical to success," said Steven Meirink, Executive Vice President and General Manager, Wolters Kluwer Compliance Solutions. "Our DIDS solution freescredit unions from having to create their own disclosures-while continually monitoring for changes across multiple jurisdictions," he added. "By leveraging the Wolters Kluwer team of compliance experts through this solution, users gain the security and confidence in knowing their IRA and deposit documents are consistent and compliant for their members."



Wolters Kluwer Compliance Solutions is a market leader and trusted provider of risk management and regulatory compliance solutions and services to U.S. banks and credit unions, insurers and securities firms. The business, which sits within Wolters Kluwer's Governance, Risk & Compliance (GRC) division, helps these financial institutions efficiently manage risk and regulatory compliance obligations, and gain the insights needed to focus on better serving their customers and growing their business. Wolters Kluwer's GRC division provides an array of expert solutions to help U.S. financial institutions manage regulatory and risk obligations. Wolters Kluwer Compliance Solutions' OneSumX for Regulatory Change Management helps financial institutions effectively manage the enormous breadth, scope and volume of ever-evolving legislative and regulatory changes, providing structured, actionable content to help ensure compliance. Wolters Kluwer Lien Solutions' iLien Motor Vehicle solution provides for the processing and management of motor vehicle titles and liens, helping solve the most unique and complicated challenges in title perfection. In addition, CT Corporation's Covid-19 resource center provides businesses and law firms with pandemic-related international, federal and state legislative updates.

About Wolters Kluwer Governance, Risk & Compliance Governance, Risk & Compliance is a division of Wolters Kluwer, which provides legal and banking professionals with solutions to help ensure compliance with ever-changing regulatory and legal obligations, manage risk, increase efficiency, and produce better business outcomes. GRC offers a portfolio of technology-enabled expert services and solutions focused on legal entity compliance, legal operations management, banking product compliance, and banking regulatory compliance. Wolters Kluwer (AEX: WKL) is a global leader in information services and solutions for professionals in the health, tax and accounting, risk and compliance, finance and legal sectors. Wolters Kluwer reported 2020 annual revenues of 4.6 billion. The company, headquartered in Alphen aan den Rijn, the Netherlands, serves customers in over 180 countries, maintains operations in over 40 countries and employs 19,000 people worldwide. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210503005059/en/

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[May 02, 2021] XSEED Education Launches in App Stores the First-of-a-Kind Teaching Tool for Teachers and Parents - Free Trial Now

SINGAPORE, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Singapore based XSEED Education, a leading K-12 education company, announces that the XSEED SuperTeacher, the world's first teaching and learning app that can easily transform anyone into a 'Super Teacher' is now available for free trial to any teacher or parent via the Google Play Store and Apple App Store. The app is a much needed education solution for schools and parents looking for an innovative, effective, easy to use tool that produces high-quality and engaging lessons every time for online classes, face-to-face in classrooms, and home learning.



Fully loaded with high-quality content. 10,000+ hours of PreK-8 lesson plans, assessment, teaching resources, multimedia learning content like videos and audios.

10,000+ hours of PreK-8 lesson plans, assessment, teaching resources, multimedia learning content like videos and audios. Teach anytime and anywhere . Lessons can be projected from teacher's mobile or tablet to a screen in class or over video conferencing platforms like Zoom for online classes.

. Lessons can be projected from teacher's mobile or tablet to a screen in class or over video conferencing platforms like Zoom for online classes. Each lesson is engaging and based on the revolutionary XSEED Method of learning and teaching, a proven methodology that makes classes interesting and full of learning. The recent OECD Policy Responses to Coronavirus (COVID-19) state that, "The COVID-19 crisis has forced education systems worldwide to find alternatives to face-to-face instruction. As a result, online teaching and learning have been used by teachers and students on an unprecedented scale."

Recognizing XSEED's responsibility as a global innovation partner to thousands of schools, tens of thousands of teachers, and millions of children and their parents, the company has mounted an all-out response to this reality. As Mr. Ashish Rajpal, Founder and CEO of XSEED Education, explained "when expectations are so high and the hurdles are many, then the teacher needs an impactful tool to make magic happen during class." The early feedback on the XSEED SuperTeacher App is that it is easy and intuitive to use, suitable to conduct online classes, enables high-quality teaching with clear learning goals, and ample curated activities. XSEED has also taken care to ensure features to assist with note making, with help assistance, and easy access to additional resources. The XSEED SuperTeacher App is simple first step to inspiring students and making learning an adventure each time. For more information on XSEED Education, XSEED SuperTeacher App, Free Training Webinars, and Free App Trial Download, please visit www.xseededucation.com SOURCE XSEED Education

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[May 02, 2021] Fintoo Wealth and Tax advisory platform launches new AI-Advisor

Fintoo, a SEBI registered investment advisory platform that offers financial advisory, retirement planning and tax planning, launches its " AI-Advisor " where a user can create his/her financial plan without any human intervention.

" where a user can create his/her financial plan without any human intervention. The idea behind this platform is to provide users and customers with one-stop solutions where they can go for all their holistic financial advisory, retirement planning, and tax planning solutions. MUMBAI, India, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Fintoo, India's leading wealth and tax advisory platform, is gearing up to offer the best digital experience to users across India. This one-of-a-kind wealth and tax advisory platform is a comprehensive automated planning tool with notable features like goals, cash flows, retirement, risk, expense management features. It is an efficient tool to link your goals with your assets and to plan your investment in a much-structured manner. The idea behind the new "AI-Advisor" is to assist users to create their financial plan without any human intervention while providing complete data security and privacy. Hence, no one except the user would see, analyse or make the right decisions. This platform is unique and is not focued only on goal-based investing, but rather on an in-depth planning tool where users can input data such as cash inflow & outflow, risk appetite, goals and tax-related details. The further detailed report helps the user with details like expense optimization, goal analysis, asset mapping, future cash flow, and plan of action, which he/she needs to execute for smooth completion of his/her financial goals.



The sudden pandemic situation has taken a toll on our physical, mental and financial situation. CA Manish P Hingar, Founder & Chief Belief Officer, Fintoo said that each industry expert has come up with different solutions to help the people pass through the current phase. Fintoo, one of the leading financial advisory firms, has put all its expertise together into "AI-Advisor" to meet the requirements of the people. Our focus has always been to provide the best financial planning services to our customers right now and we are 100% dedicated to achieving it. He also added that, during this situation, people should opt for contactless and digital services for their safety. The company's chatbot functionality also allows its users to request real-time advice or consultation for any financial query.

The "AI-Advisor" tool is currently available only on the web but users can expect it to be available on mobile platforms by June 30, 2021. About Fintoo Based in Mumbai, Fintoo (Financial Hospital Advisor LLP) was started in 2015 by Manish P Hingar and has a 70+ team of wealth management professionals and engineers. Fintoo is designed as a hybrid digital platform to offer the benefits of an AI-Advisory with human expertise, enable wealth creation, and provide a security cushion for investors in a cost and time-efficient manner. Our target market is HNI people of the top 15 cities of India and then gradually expand to the rest of the urban and semi-urban cities. For further information, please contact: Darshini Bhuta

The Good Edge

darshini@thegoodedge.com

+91 9820463802 Davesh Mathur

The Good Edge

davesh@thegoodedge.com

+91 9811549035

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[May 03, 2021] Annual Report 2020: A year of transformation for digital engineering company Nagarro SE

- Spin-off, listing and new brand identity among milestones in 2020

- Revenue increase of 7% to 430.4 million despite the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic MUNICH, May 3, 2021 /CNW/ -- 2020 was an eventful year for Nagarro, a global leader in digital product engineering. While Covid-19 impaired normal life and rattled the global economy, Nagarro prepared and executed the spin-off from the former parent company Allgeier SE and listed on the stock exchange in December 2020. In the run-up to this step, the company also unveiled a new brand identity that better reflected the company's ethos and values. Thanks to its diversified base of 750 blue chip customers from 50 countries and the resilient demand for digital solutions, Nagarro performed well despite the ongoing pandemic. Nagarro's revenue grew from 402.4 million in 2019 to 430.4 million in 2020, (+7%). The adjusted EBITDA, a non-IFRS number, grew by 38% from 55.0 million in 2019 to 76.2 million in 2020. "Many of our clients and colleagues faced a challenging 2020," said Cindy Wolf, a Nagarro Managing Director based in New York City. "We were yet able to continue to develop and grow as a company, building ew, important digital products and services for our clients."



Nagarro successfully pursued the plan of splitting from its parent company Allgeier and listing on its own. On December 16, 2020, Nagarro SE got listed in the Prime Standard of the Frankfurt Stock Exchange with an initial quotation of 69.00 and closed on December 30, 2020 with an increase of around 32% at 91.00. In the run-up to the listing, Nagarro also introduced a new logo, branding, and website. This was implemented in-house with the marketing and design team and underlined Nagarro's friendly, humanistic character. Over many years, Nagarro has invested in building a modern, agile, entrepreneurial, and human-centric company with a distinctive organizational design and culture. As a virtual, global company with no headquarters, Nagarro places special emphasis on its unique corporate value of "CARING"  an acronym for Client-centric, Agile, Responsible, Intelligent, Non-hierarchical, and Global. In a year of disruption, Nagarro's organizational design allowed for a smooth continuation of daily operations and rapid adjustments to changing market circumstances. "The past year has shown that, thanks to our agility and our unique CARING culture, we can emerge stronger from a crisis," says Neeraj Chhibba, a member of Nagarro's Finance Council. "We are convinced that our values, our capabilities and our client relationships form a strong basis for sustainable future success."

Download Nagarro's 2020 Annual Report- https://annualreport.nagarro.com About Nagarro Nagarro (FRA: NA9) is a global digital engineering leader. They help clients to become innovative, digital-first companies and thus to win in their markets. Nagarro is distinguished by its entrepreneurial, agile, and global character, its CARING mindset, and of its approach of "Thinking Breakthroughs". As of December 31, 2020, the company employed over 8,600 people in 25 countries. For more information, visit www.nagarro.com ISIN DE000A3H2200, WKN A3H220 View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/annual-report-2020-a-year-of-transformation-for-digital-engineering-company-nagarro-se-301281949.html SOURCE Nagarro

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[May 03, 2021] GA-ASI to Host Next Blue Magic Belgium Event Sept. 15-16

SAN DIEGO, May 3, 2021 /CNW/ -- General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) is once again inviting Belgian industry to become part of the development of MQ-9B SkyGuardian Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) through Blue Magic Belgium (BMB). The third annual event, set for Sept. 15-16, 2021 at DronePort's facility in Sint-Truiden, provides an opportunity for Belgium-based businesses to present their capabilities and products to GA-ASI technical experts with the goal of expanding GA-ASI's business-to-business cooperation with Belgian industry. Following GA-ASI's 2020 BMB event, new Research and Development projects were initiated in partnership with Hexagon's Geospatial division and ScioTeq, adding to a growing list of projects in development with Belgian businesses working with GA-ASI on SkyGuardian development. Other Belgian businesses include AeroSimulators Group (ASG), AIRobot, ALX Systems, SABCA, Thales Belgium, ST Engineering and DronePort. "GA-ASI encourages any Belgian companies who are interested in contributing to the advancement of Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) technology for Belgian Defence and beyond, to review the applicant details and submit an application package," said GA-ASI European Regional Vice President, Scott Smith. GA-ASI is interested in meeting with Belgian companies that develop technologies and products that are applicable to UAS in the following areas: Cutting-Edge Engineering Technologies related to Medium-Altitude, Long-Endurance (MALE) Unmanned Aircraft Systems

State-of-the-art Innovative Manufacturing developments relted to MALE Unmanned Aircraft Systems

Sensor data processing, automation, utilization & distribution technology developments

Air Space Integration technologies and developments related to MALE Unmanned Aircraft Systems



Sept. 15-16 event should visit https://ga-asi.com/blue-magic-belgium-2021 for additional information and to submit an application package. Businesses selected will meet with GA-ASI technical experts to present their capabilities and show how they can be applied to GA-ASI's line of Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) products and services for UAS. About GA-ASI

General Atomics-Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a leading designer and manufacturer of proven, reliable remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) systems, radars, and electro-optic and related mission systems, including the Predator RPA series and the Lynx Multi-mode Radar. With more than six million flight hours, GA-ASI provides long-endurance, mission-capable aircraft with integrated sensor and data link systems required to deliver persistent flight that enables situational awareness and rapid strike. The company also produces a variety of ground control stations and sensor control/image analysis software, offers pilot training and support services, and develops meta-material antennas. For more information, visit www.ga-asi.com. Lynx, Predator, Reaper, SeaGuardian and SkyGuardian are registered trademarks of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. GA-ASI Media Relations

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.

+1 (858) 524-8101

ASI-MediaRelations@ga-asi.com Related Images

mq-9b-skyguardian-remotely-piloted.jpg

MQ-9B SkyGuardian Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ga-asi-to-host-next-blue-magic-belgium-event-sept-15-16-301281126.html SOURCE General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.

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[May 03, 2021] Excision BioTherapeutics Appoints Seasoned Finance Executive Christine Silverstein as Chief Financial Officer

SAN FRANCISCO, May 03, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Excision BioTherapeutics (Excision), a leading developer of potentially curative CRISPR anti-viral therapies to improve patient lives, today announced the appointment of Christine Silverstein as Chief Financial Officer. Silverstein joins Excision with more than 15 years of financial leadership and capital markets expertise in the biopharmaceutical industry.

We recently completed our Series A financing round enabling us to advance our lead candidate, EBT-101, into a Phase 1/2 clinical trial in patients with chronic HIV infection and to fund development of preclinical candidates targeting JC Virus for progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), herpes simplex virus, and chronic hepatitis B, said Daniel Dornbusch, Chief Executive Officer of Excision. Christine is a proven expert in managing the financial growth of emerging biopharmaceutical companies. We look forward to her operational and strategic guidance as we continue to execute across all of our clinical and pre-clinical programs. Excision employs CRISPR for its naturally evolved purpose, which is to attack viral infections, and leverages this elegant approach in its portfolio of programs across a range of viral diseases, said Christine Silverstein. I look forward to leading the finance team and collaborating with everyone at Excision to help make its mission of bringing transformative CRISPR-based therapies to cure viral infectious diseases to patients a reality. Silverstein is a seasoned corporate finance executive with invaluable experience across both private and public biopharmaceutical companies. Most recently, she served as Chief Financial Officer of Emendo Biotherapeutics, a next generation gene-editing company that was acquired in December 2020 by AnGes, Inc. Silverstein previously operated in various senior executive corporate finance roles within Abeona Therapeutics, including Chief Financil Officer and Principal Financial Officer of the fully-integrated cell and gene therapy company, and continues to serve as a member of its Board of Directors. Prior to joining Abeona, she drove internal capital markets strategy within various public companies, including Relmada Therapeutics, Inc., a late-stage biotech company addressing diseases of the central nervous system (CNS). Silverstein also held senior executive roles within a New York-based biotechnology venture fund, SCO Capital Partners, and capital markets advisory firms, where she was instrumental in advising clients on transaction considerations and formulating effective US public listing and financing strategies. Silverstein began her career in the financial services industry as an investment advisor with Royal Alliance Associates. A member of CHIEF and Women in Bio (WIB), two esteemed networks of exceptional female leaders, Silverstein holds a B.S from the Peter Tobin College of Business at St. Johns University and has earned various accreditations from the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA).



About Excision BioTherapeutics, Inc. Excision BioTherapeutics, Inc., is a biotechnology company developing CRISPR-based therapies to cure viral infectious diseases. Excision is focused on improving the lives of chronically ill patients by eliminating viral genomes from infected individuals. By using CRISPR in unique ways, the Company has already demonstrated the first functional cure for HIV in animals. Excision is developing technologies and IP developed at Temple University and U.C. Berkeley. Excision is located in San Francisco, California and is supported by ARTIS Ventures, GreatPoint Ventures, Norwest Venture Partners, Adjuvant Capital, Cota Capital, WRVI Capital, IndusAge Partners, Loreda Holdings, Olive Tree, Anzu Partners, SilverRidge Venture Partners, Oakhouse Ventures, and Gaingels. For more information, please visit www.excision.bio.

Contacts: Investors

Eric Ando

Burns McClellan, Inc.

212-213-0006

eando@burnsmc.com Media

Ryo Imai / Robert Flamm, Ph.D.

Burns McClellan, Inc.

212-213-0006

Rimai@burnsmc.com / rflamm@burnsmc.com





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[May 03, 2021] JOANN Joins On Our Sleeves to Advance Child Mental Health Awareness Through Creativity

JOANN, the nation's category leader in sewing and fabrics and one of the fastest growing competitors in the arts and crafts industry, is partnering with On Our Sleeves, the movement for children's mental health, to support childhood mental health awareness across the country. On Our Sleeves serves to break the stigma around mental health among children and adolescents, and JOANN will help further the movement across the country beginning in May, Mental Health Awareness Month. "We know from countless research studies that creative expression has a tight correlation to mental well-being, and we are looking forward to helping children and their families improve their mental wellness," said Chris DiTullio, Chief Customer Officer of JOANN. "Our goal has always been to inspire creativity in everyone, and we are very excited to share the positive impact of creation on mental wellness, along with raising funds in our stores and bringing visibility to the incredible resources provided by On Our Sleeves." Launched on World Mental Health Day in 2018, On Our Sleeves' mission is to provide every community in America with free informational resources necessay for breaking child mental health stigmas and educating families and advocates. Powered by behavioral health experts at Nationwide Children's Hospital, resources at OnOurSleeves.org are evidence-informed and support access by connecting families to local trusted resources because no child or family should struggle alone.



"Unfortunately, we know that one in five children is living with a mental illness, and 50% of all lifetime mental illnesses start by age 14," said Dr. Parker Huston, PhD, clinical director, On Our Sleeves and pediatric psychologist, Nationwide Children's Hospital. "We are excited to partner with JOANN to inspire conversations about mental health through creativity, as the projects we've created together are designed to help children express themselves while breaking down stigmas around mental health." For information on the craft projects, fundraising and partnership, please visit joann.com/onoursleeves.

About JOANN For more than 75 years, JOANN has inspired creativity in the hearts, hands and minds of its customers. From a single storefront in Cleveland, Ohio, the nation's category leader in sewing and fabrics and one of the fastest growing players in the arts and crafts industry has grown to include 855 stores across 49 states and robust e-commerce business. With the goal of helping every customer find their creative Happy Place, JOANN serves as a convenient single source for all of the supplies, guidance and inspiration needed to achieve any project or passion. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210503005380/en/

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Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 20:15:14|Editor: huaxia

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KINSHASA, May 3 (Xinhua) -- The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) on Monday officially declared the end of the 12th Ebola outbreak, which killed six people in its eastern province of North Kivu.

Since the outbreak declared on February 7, 2021, a total of 12 cases have been reported, including 6 deaths in the province.

Thanks to the experience of the DRC's response team and health partners, the epidemic has been brought under control in less than three months after its declaration, said health Minister Jean-Jacques Mbungani.

"Local health workers and authorities should be commended for their rapid response, tenacity, experience and hard work in controlling this outbreak," said Matshidiso Moeti, World Health Organization (WHO) regional director for Africa.

The recent resurgence was genetically linked to the 2018-2020 epidemic in the northeastern part of the country, in which 3,470 people were infected and 2,287 were killed. Another outbreak in the western province of Ecuador infected 130 people and killed 55 between June and November 2020.

Guinea is also currently fighting against an Ebola epidemic since this February. Over the years, the virus has been a health crisis for Africa, which is already troubled by the COVID-19 pandemic.

"The response to this epidemic has been influenced by the expansion of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has not spared our country," Mbungani noted.

The WHO warned that the country should remain vigilant and maintain a robust surveillance system, as potential resurgences are possible in the coming months.

"While the epidemic is over, we must remain vigilant to a possible resurgence while drawing on the growing expertise in emergency response to handle other health threats that the country faces," Moeti said. Enditem
[May 03, 2021] One Mind is Offering Three 2021 Rising Star Awards totaling $900,000 to Accelerate Pivotal, Innovative Brain Science

Given the growing challenges of addressing brain illness and injury, One Mind, in collaboration with Janssen Research & Development LLC, Donna Friedman, and Robina Riccitiello, is offering up to three Rising Star Research Awards in 2021. In collaboration with Inscopix, One Mind is also offering up to two supplemental technology grants, each in support of one Rising Star Research Award. The goal of the Rising Star Research Awards is to recognize and fund promising, early career investigators through a competitive grants process to accelerate research on major neuropsychiatric disorders. Chosen by One Mind's Scientific Advisory Board, each Rising Star Award recipient will receive up to $300,000 over a 3-year period to fund research for their studies. Applicants of the award should have demonstrated productivity and innovation in a scientific field that can be applied to the study of neuropsychiatric disorders, such as anxiety, bipolar disorder, compulsive disorders, including OCD and eating disorders, depression, post-traumatic stress and other trauma-related disorders, schizophrenia, suicidality, and other serious psychiatric illnesses. More information may be found on the Rising Star Awards page of the onemind.org website.



The full application package should be emailed to Candace.Thersby@onemind.org on or before June 1, 2021. Those chosen for grants will be notified on or around July 16, 2021.

The winning awardees will be invited to attend One Mind's 27th Music Festival for Brain Health activities on September 10 - 11, 2021 in Napa Valley and to give a presentation about their award-winning research plans at the Music Festival's Scientific Symposium. Learn more at music-festival.org. Since 2005, One Mind has awarded 36 Rising Star Awards totaling more than $9 million. One such scientist is Dr. Greg Fonzo, a 2020 Rising Star Award winner from the University of Texas at Austin, whose research on a non-invasive neuroimaging treatment is featured in a recent documentary short released in April 2021. For more information or to apply for the Rising Star Research Awards, please visit www.onemind.org/rising-star-awards View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210503005243/en/

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[May 03, 2021] CPI Aerostructures Receives Follow-On Order From Spirit AeroSystems for CH-53K Cabin Rack Assemblies

EDGEWOOD, N.Y., May 03, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- CPI Aerostructures, Inc. (CPI Aero) (NYSE American: CVU) today announced that it was awarded a follow-on order for nearly $1 million from Spirit AeroSystems (NYSE: SPR) to manufacture cabin rack assemblies for new production CH-53K King Stallion Helicopters, built by Sikorsky Aircraft. Deliveries are scheduled for 2022. Including this new order, total orders from Spirit AeroSystems for CH-53K assemblies now total approximately $3.6 million.

CPI Aero president and CEO Douglas McCrosson stated, CPI is proud to be the single source supplier of these assemblies for the CH-53K King Stallion. The USMC is looking to complete Initial Operational Test & Evaluation (IOT&E) and declare Initial Operational Capability (IOC) for the CH-53K later this year and we look forward to supporting higher production rates as the program moves through Low-Rate Initial Production (LRIP) and into Full-Rate Production (FRP)



About CPI Aero CPI Aero is a U.S. manufacturer of structural assemblies for fixed wing aircraft, helicopters and airborne Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance pod systems in both the commercial aerospace and national security markets. Within the global aerostructure supply chain, CPI Aero is either a Tier 1 supplier to aircraft OEMs or a Tier 2 subcontractor to major Tier 1 manufacturers. CPI also is a prime contractor to the U.S. Department of Defense, primarily the Air Force. In conjunction with its assembly operations, CPI Aero provides engineering, program management, supply chain management, and MRO services. CPI Aero is included in the Russell Microcap Index.



The above statements include forward looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties, which are described from time to time in CPI Aero's SEC reports, including CPI Aero's Form 10-K for the years ended December 31, 2019, and December 31, 2020. CPI Aero is a registered trademark of CPI Aerostructures, Inc. For more information, visit www.cpiaero.com , and follow us on Twitter @CPIAERO . Contact:

Investor Relations Counsel:

LHA Investor Relations

Jody Burfening

(212) 838-3777

cpiaero@lhai.com

www.lhai.com



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[May 03, 2021] CAES and Colorado Engineering Inc. Form Strategic Alliance for Advanced Technology Development

CAES, the leading provider of mission critical electronic solutions, and Colorado Engineering Inc. (CEI), a leading RF and high-performance computing (HPC) solutions provider, announced a strategic alliance to jointly develop advanced technology applicable to missile seekers, datalinks, electronic warfare systems, and next generation radar and communications systems. The strategic alliance allows for the CAES and CEI engineering teams to agilely collaborate on critical projects for aerospace and defense customers. With this alliance, aerospace and defense prime contractors and the government will benefit from the team's newly combined advanced systems engineering, and volume manufacturing expertise, combining both digital and analog functionality and thus allowing for more effective engagements earlier in the life cycle of a program. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210503005402/en/ "We are delighted to partner with CEI to combine our industry-leading digitl, RF, microwave, and millimeter wave expertise with CEI's systems engineering capability," said David Young (News - Alert) , Chief Technology Officer, CAES. "Customers have looked to us to provide integrated solutions with advanced capabilities in missiles, radar, and electronic warfare domains. Teaming with CEI and its world class systems engineers creates the team of choice for defense primes," he continued.



"Allying ourselves with CAES enables CEI to access to leading millimeter wave technologists and robust manufacturing capability," said Nancy Scally, Chief Executive Officer, CEI. "Our customer-first culture combined with innovative approaches and experienced engineering team and CAES' advanced engineering capability provide customers with a synergistic team to solve their most challenging problems," she continued. With a focus on aerospace and defense customers, the strategic alliance between CAES and CEI grants both companies access to each other's engineering, prototyping, and manufacturing capabilities on a quick-reaction basis. Under this agreement, CAES and CEI will be able to seamlessly assemble a team of engineers ready to develop advanced technology solutions to a customer's mission needs.

About Colorado Engineering Inc. (CEI) CEI is a small, woman-owned business headquartered in Colorado Springs. It is one of the world's foremost leading radio frequency (RF) and high-performance computing (HPC) solutions providers offering bleeding-edge technology solutions for the commercial, industrial, automotive, and military industries. CEI supplies off-the-shelf solutions for hardware and software as well as custom-tailored solutions for any application. CEI offers quick turn, innovative solutions, allowing for lower costs, and high-quality designs. Coloradoengineering.com About CAES CAES is a pioneer of advanced electronics for the most technologically challenging military and aerospace trusted systems. As the largest provider of mixed-signal and radiation-hardened technology to the United States aerospace and defense industry, CAES delivers high-reliability RF, microwave and millimeter wave, microelectronic and digital solutions that enable our customers to ensure a safer, more secure planet. On land, at sea, in the air, in space and in cyberspace, CAES' extensive electronics and enhanced manufacturing capabilities are at the forefront of mission-critical military and aerospace innovation. Caes.com View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210503005402/en/

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[May 03, 2021] My Legal Einstein Announces GDPR-Compliant Subscription Service for European Union with Legal AI Capabilities for Many European Languages

PALO ALTO, Calif., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- My Legal Einstein, the AI-powered Legal Contract Collaboration software provider, today announced a new European GDPR-compliant subscription service, with data and compute services physically located in the European Union. My Legal Einstein now supports multi-language legal contract environments, including English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish. My Legal Einstein now offers comprehensive Legal AI capabilities across multiple languages, supporting the ability to topically analyze legal contracts and perform side-by-side comparisons of legal topics across contracts, corporate playbooks, and clause libraries. "My Legal Einstein's multi-languages support and our efforts to create a wholly Europe-based subscription service meets the most stringent of GDPR, privacy, and security concerns of our European customer base. Europe's multilingual, multicultural environment requires solutions that can seamlessly support multiple languages, reducing the language barrier for contract negotiations," said Jim Chiang, Founder and CEO of My Legal Einstein. "With 24 official languages, Europe is a challenge for LegalTech AI products. As AI is applied in document review and analytics, the native support of European languages is critical towards greater LegalTech adoption in Europe. My Legal Einstein's efforts in this regard are an important initiative and doubtlessly elcome by the European LegalTech ecosystem," said Holger Zscheyge, President of European Legal Tech Association.



"Spanish speaking countries cross many jurisdictions and negotiate contracts with many non-Spanish countries. The ability to apply Legal AI for native Spanish contracts and compare with other languages removes trade barriers, and speeds international legal cooperation," said Maria Jesus Gonzalez-Espejo, President at Innovation in Law Studies Alliance For more information about My Legal Einstein AI applications, visit www.mylegaleinstein.eu.

About My Legal Einstein (MLE) My Legal Einstein, Inc, (MLE) is an online software technology company headquartered in Palo Alto, CA that leverages the latest AI NLP technology to transform the legal contract collaboration and negotiation process. MLE is used by corporate attorneys, business owners, outside counsel, finance teams, and other groups responsible for legal contract review and collaboration. MLE is optimized for end-user productivity, with a user interface that is optimized for the comparison of legal text. About European Legal Tech Association (ELTA) ELTA is an independent community of European LegalTech experts and enthusiasts who aims to become a widely-known and well-established expert organization and think tank for legal technology and legal innovation throughout Europe and beyond. About Innovation in Law Studies Alliance (ILSA) ILSA is an alliance of Law and Technology faculties (from 17 universities) whose mission is to support its transformation by fostering collaboration among its members, the exchange of best practices and the organization of events and training activities. Media Contact

Jim Chiang

650-823-5070

308974@email4pr.com View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/my-legal-einstein-announces-gdpr-compliant-subscription-service-for-european-union-with-legal-ai-capabilities-for-many-european-languages-301281670.html SOURCE My Legal Einstein, Inc.

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[May 03, 2021] Disconnect between increased stress and lower diagnoses rates raises concerns

While people in America have shared that the pandemic and other stressors like social injustice, elections, and the economy negatively impacted their mental health in 2020, there wasn't a corresponding increase in people seeking mental health treatment, according to the inaugural Anthem, Inc. State of the Nation's Mental Health report. However, diagnoses and treatment for anxiety and PTSD for adults were among the few mental health diagnoses that grew in 2020. Children and older adults appeared to have the largest overall downturn, reporting significantly fewer mental health diagnoses in 2020 compared to 2019. Younger adults, meanwhile, had a smaller than expected increase in mental health diagnoses for the full year of 2020. These findings, part of a new State of the Nation's Mental Health report based on Anthem affiliated health plan claims from 27 million Americans, show the pandemic disconnect between feeling stressed and depressed and being diagnosed and seeking treatment. Recent studies have shown that many more adults reported symptoms of anxiety or depression. Further, 42 percent of people under 30 years old were experiencing anxiety and depression symptoms, according to a CDC survey from August 2020 through February 2021. "What this says to us is that there are many people who may benefit from mental health services, especially children and older adults, who either aren't being identified or aren't reaching out to get the help they might need," said Anthem Chief Health Officer Shantanu Agrawal, M.D. "This is a call out for all of us. We don't hesitate to help others get the COVID-19 vaccine to protect themselves from the virus and we shouldn't hesitate to help people find the mental health services they need as they cope with the pandemic, which is equally important to their overall health. That's why we are dedicated to increasing our focus on whole health." The results of the study are supported by other Anthem data from IngenioRx, its pharmacy benefits manager. While the overall utilization for medications to treat depression was up in 2020, much of that increase can be attributed to existing users being more adherent to their dosing regimens, according to IngenioRx medication adherence data. New users of these medications increased at the same rate as 2019. The State of the Nation's Mental Health report showed the following drops in 2020 rates for those treated for mental health diagnoses compared to those treated in 2019: 10 percent overall drop for young children

li> 5 percent overall drop for adolescents 5 percent overall drop for adults older than 75

13 percent drop for young children diagnosed with ADHD

8 percent drop for adolescents diagnosed with ADHD

8 percent drop in adults older than 75 diagnosed with dementia, and a

3 percent drop for both Baby Boomers and adults older than 75 diagnosed for depression.



Nearly three out of four mental health specialists and primary care doctors estimated in an Anthem commissioned survey that mental health repercussions from the virus will last up to three years or longer and almost two-thirds believe their patients' mental health declined in the second half of the pandemic (September 2020-February 2021) compared to the first half (March-August 2020).

"When people encounter more stress, it's logical to expect trends for mental health diagnoses to increase. However, for many, such as children who may be learning virtually and isolated seniors - that hasn't been the case," said Agrawal. "This subsequent 'mental health' pandemic could have impacts for years to come, reinforcing the need for mental health and physical health to be addressed equally and simultaneously." On a positive note, nine out of 10 healthcare professionals surveyed said that COVID-19 has made them more aware of the mental health conditions their patients are experiencing. Seventy percent of healthcare professionals said their patients have been more willing to proactively bring up mental health concerns during appointments. A majority of healthcare professionals said that patients who were already seeking therapy or in a support group prior to the start of the pandemic have more successfully coped with their mental health concerns. And, many noted they are seeing an increased emphasis in patient self-care and better work/life flexibility. "People in general and young people in particular should not be reluctant to seek mental health help when they need it," said Paul Gionfriddo, President and CEO of Mental Health America, the nation's largest mental health advocacy organization. "We know from the millions of help-seeking people who have reached out to us this past year that more people than ever are in need of help, and we want them to know that it is a show of strength, not weakness, to seek that help as early as possible, and the first step on the pathway to recovery." Information about how to recognize the signs and symptoms of mental health conditions is available at the State of the Nation's Mental Health report web site and the Mental Health America web site. Survey and Claims Methodology The State of the Nation's Mental Health report is based on claims data from 27 million members in Anthem affiliated individual, employer-sponsored, Medicare and Medicaid health plans in all states. Prevalence of behavioral health diagnoses each year (2019 and 2020) was determined by the number of individuals with at least one claim containing a behavioral health diagnosis during the calendar year divided by the number of members enrolled in the plans. The Anthem online survey was conducted among a national sample consisting of 552 healthcare professionals, broken out into 285 behavioral health specialists and 267 primary care physicians/general practitioners living in the United States, with an oversample of 100 rural healthcare professionals. The sample includes a diverse set of respondents across key demographics (age, gender, region, race/ethnicity) and experience as a physician (time spent in practice, type of practice, size of practice). The margin of error for the total sample at the 95 percent confidence level is +/- 4 percentage points. About Anthem, Inc. Anthem is a leading health benefits company dedicated to improving lives and communities, and making healthcare simpler. Through its affiliated companies, Anthem serves more than 116 million people, including more than 43 million within its family of health plans. We aim to be the most innovative, valuable and inclusive partner. For more information, please visit www.antheminc.com or follow @AnthemInc on Twitter (News - Alert) . View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210503005441/en/

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[May 03, 2021] The 2021 Census of Population and Census of Agriculture begin today!

OTTAWA, ON, May 3, 2021 /CNW/ - Statistics Canada is pleased to announce that collection for the 2021 Census of Population and 2021 Census of Agriculture begins today! The 2021 Census begins today! Canadians will be receiving their census letter in the mail with instructions on how to conveniently complete their questionnaire online, on paper or over the phone. Completing an online questionnaire is easy. Once you receive your letter or a paper questionnaire with your 16-digit secure access code, please visit www.census.gc.ca and select the Start questionnaire button. "Now more than ever, it's crucial that all of us complete the census. The 2021 Census will help us to better understand the impacts of the pandemic for different population groups and communities across the country and ensure we have good data for planning for a post-pandemic recovery and beyond. We have taken all necessary measures to conduct a safe census that will enable Canadians to tell their story, and provide vital information that contributes to the strength of our country and our communities. It is important that everyone is included in the changing portrait of our nation." Anil Arora, Chief Statistician of Canada, Statistics Canada The Census of Population Census questionnaires are assigned by household, and the Census of Population enumerates the entire Canadian population. This includes Canadian citizens (by birth or naturalization), landed immigrants, refugee claimants (e.g., asylum seekers), Canadian Foreign Service officers, Canadian Armed Forces members stationed abroad, and people who hold a work or study permit. Canadians have relied on census data to tell us about how our cuntry is changing and what matters to us. We all depend on key socioeconomic trends and analysis from the census to make important decisions that affect our families, our neighbourhoods and our businesses.



Data from the 2016 Census have played a key role in understanding the impacts of COVID-19 and responding to them. Federal and provincial governments use local-level population, age, income and housing data to determine who is most vulnerable to the current health and economic crisis. Furthermore, vaccine allocations have been conducted on a per capita basis based on census data. Statistics Canada has adapted the collection process to ensure that all Canadians and our employees remain safe while participating in this vital national exercise. Data collected in the 2021 Census will inform many of the economic and health-related policy decisions that must be made by all levels of government in the coming months and years, as the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect the lives of Canadians.

Statistics Canada will do everything it can to get Canadians to respond to the census without an in-person visit from a census employee. Completing the census questionnaire online is the best and easiest way to fulfill the census obligation. We anticipate that the great majority of Canadians will complete the questionnaire through our efficient, secure and user-friendly online application. Respondents without reliable access to the Internet can also call the Census Help Line at 1-855-340-2021, to complete their census questionnaire over the phone or request a paper questionnaire. "Digital technology is continually changing the way we live and work. The Government is progressing in providing Canadians with secure digital platforms to interact with and obtain services from the Government of Canada. Giving all Canadians access to the online questionnaire for the 2021 Census demonstrates our focus on modernizing digital platforms and ensuring the protection of Canadians' data and information. Completing the 2021 Census is more crucial than ever, as this data will help all levels of government to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and better plan for the future." - The Honourable Joyce Murray, Minister of Digital Government The Census of Agriculture: Canadian farm operators will be asked to complete the 2021 Census of Agriculture questionnaire to help update Canada's agricultural profile. Farm operators will receive their letter with easy-to-follow instructions on how to complete the Census of Agriculture questionnaire online. Completing the questionnaire online is the best way to stay safe and tell your story as part of Canada's farming community. All follow-up contact will be performed by mail, email or phone. The Census Help Line

(1-855-859-6273) will be available to farm operators from May until end of July to answer any questions and help with completing the questionnaire. In the current context of COVID-19, Census of Agriculture data is vital to understanding the impacts of the crisis on the agricultural community, including supply chain and trade disruptions, and food security. Census of Agriculture data provides Canadians with critical and accurate statistical information to manage federal and provincial government expenditures in support of the agriculture sector, including natural disaster and disease outbreak programming and compensation, establishing program payment caps, performance reporting and food safety issues. Statistics Canada is still hiring! Individuals are being hired to be part of this large-scale national project in communities both big and small to collect crucial data that will be used to plan for the future. Supervisory and non-supervisory opportunities are still available in a number of communities. For more information on the census and to apply for census jobs, visit the 2021 Census website. SOURCE Statistics Canada

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[May 03, 2021] Schwab's Volunteer Week Goes Virtual, Expands to Month of Service

More than 6,000 Charles Schwab and TD Ameritrade employees will honor the company's long-standing culture of investing in its communities through philanthropy and volunteer service by participating in Schwab Volunteer Month May 3-28, 2021. For the first time in its history, the program will shift to an all-virtual format, providing more ways for employees and nonprofit partners to volunteer while staying safe during the pandemic. In addition, the event will be expanded from one week to nearly an entire month, providing more opportunities for involvement. "Schwab Volunteer Month is an inspiring time of year and underscores the importance of service at Schwab-not just for our clients but also for our communities," said Carrie Schwab-Pomerantz, president of Charles Schwab Foundation. "As the pandemic continues to affect how we live and work, we're keeping the spirit of service alive by going virtual and expanding the length of our volunteerism program to a month. These changes will help us provide more flexibility for our employees and nonprofit partners at a time when community needs are greater than ever." Now in its 18th year, Schwab Volunteer Month began as a single day of service on May 13, 2004, with just over 1,000 employee volunteers serving 37 nonprofits in seven cities across the country. Despite the ongoing pandemic, this year Schwab Volunteer Month will engage more than 6,000 employees serving more than 130 nonprofits nationwide. Many Schwab Volunteer Month projects are designed to help nonprofits increase the financial empowerment and well-being of the people they serve, and Schwab and TD Ameritrade employees have the opportunity to give back to their communities in a variety of ways, while staying safe and socially distanced. Among the more than 280 volunteer projects available are Sky's the Limit, a nonprofit that works with underrepresented young entrepreneurs to provide support, resources and mentors to help them become job creators and strengthen the economy; Homeward Bound, which creates pathways out of homelessness and provides essential services to families seeking permanent housing; and Boys and Girls Clubs of America, which provides a safe place for kids and teens to learn and grow through mentorship and youth development programs. Follow Schwab Volunteer Week on social media at #Schwab4Good and on Facebook (News - Alert) : @CarrieSchwabPomerantz1, LinkedIn (News - Alert) : CarrieSchwabPomerantz, and Twitter (News - Alert) : @CarrieSchwab. Learn more about Schwab's commitment to its communities.



About Charles Schwab Foundation Charles Schwab Foundation is an independent nonprofit public benefit corporation, funded by The Charles Schwab Corporation and classified by the IRS as a charity under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The Foundation is neither a part of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. (member SIPC) nor its parent company, The Charles Schwab Corporation. Its mission is to educate, volunteer and advocate on behalf of those in need so that everyone has the opportunity to achieve financial well-being. More information is available at https://www.aboutschwab.com/citizenship.

About Charles Schwab & Co. At Charles Schwab we believe in the power of investing to help individuals create a better tomorrow. We have a history of challenging the status quo in our industry, innovating in ways that benefit investors and the advisors and employers who serve them, and championing our clients' goals with passion and integrity. More information is available at www.aboutschwab.com. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and LinkedIn. The Charles Schwab Corporation (NYSE: SCHW) is a leading provider of financial services, with 31.9 million active brokerage accounts, 2.1 million corporate retirement plan participants, 1.6 million banking accounts, and approximately $7.07 trillion in client assets. Through its operating subsidiaries, the company provides a full range of wealth management, securities brokerage, banking, asset management, custody, and financial advisory services to individual investors and independent investment advisors. Its broker-dealer subsidiaries, Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., TD Ameritrade, Inc., and TD Ameritrade Clearing, Inc., (members SIPC, https://www.sipc.org), and their affiliates offer a complete range of investment services and products including an extensive selection of mutual funds; financial planning and investment advice; retirement plan and equity compensation plan services; referrals to independent, fee-based investment advisors; and custodial, operational and trading support for independent, fee-based investment advisors through Schwab Advisor Services. Its primary banking subsidiary, Charles Schwab Bank, SSB (member FDIC and an Equal Housing Lender), provides banking and lending services and products. More information is available at https://www.aboutschwab.com. 0521-1PVL View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210503005115/en/

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[May 03, 2021] MeetKai - The Next Gen AI Assistant - Launches Today in the US

LOS ANGELES, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- MeetKai [ www.meetkai.com ] - the AI Personalized Conversational Search company - today launches the first voice-operated AI assistant that uses conversation, personalization, and curation to assist its users. The MeetKai app is available now for free in the US. Unlike other AI-assistants, MeetKai's sophisticated voice recognition and AI integration remembers its users preferences and context to respond within seconds. This enables Kai to respond to questions as specific as: "Hey Kai, I wanna watch a Joaquin Phoenix movie that's not The Joker". MeetKai's unique features include: Context : MeetKai is the first virtual assistant capable of understanding and remembering the context of users' questions. That means, if a user already asked MeetKai questions about Italian restaurants and then asks: "how about something else?" or "show me another option", Kai will remember that they mean Italian restaurants, without the user having to ask again.

: MeetKai is the first virtual assistant capable of understanding and remembering the context of users' questions. That means, if a user already asked MeetKai questions about Italian restaurants and then asks: "how about something else?" or "show me another option", Kai will remember that they mean Italian restaurants, without the user having to ask again. Personalization : Kai remembers what the user likes, what they don't like and gives personalized results based on past interactions. Just like levels on a video game, the more time spent with Kai, the more personalized and impressive the results will be.

: Kai remembers what the user likes, what they don't like and gives personalized results based on past interactions. Just like levels on a video game, the more time spent with Kai, the more personalized and impressive the results will be. Conversation : Kai will understand very specific questions even if the user uses negation, unlike all other virtual assistants.

: Kai will understand very specific questions even if the user uses negation, unlike all other virtual assistants. Multi language : Kai will understand and respond to the language the user's phone is set up to. It currently operates in Spanish, English, Chinese, German, French, Hindi, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Polish Russian and Turkish.

: Kai will understand and respond to the language the user's phone is set up to. It currently operates in Spanish, English, Chinese, German, French, Hindi, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Polish Russian and Turkish. Genderless : Kai is the first non-binary assistant, and identifies as 'they' or 'them'.

: Kai is the first non-binary assistant, and identifies as 'they' or 'them'. Easy navigation : Users can vertically scroll through their results if they want to find and engage with previous discussions.

: Users can vertically scroll through their results if they want to find and engage with previous discussions. Voice & Text Input: Ensures easy access for users to speak to Kai through voice or text.



James Kaplan , MeetKai Co-Founder & CEO, comments: "As a user and enthusiast of known AI assistants myself, I started finding ways to make them better and took on the challenge to build a true virtual assistant in the form of the MeetKai app". Kaplan founded MeetKai two years ago, pioneering a revolutionary new approach to search called AI Personalized Conversational Search. He comments: "We're very excited to release our AI technology for the first time, through a fun AI Virtual Assistant, accessible to everyone. The MeetKai app is a great first step for our technology capabilities, and we can't wait to share more".

Weili Dai, MeetKai Co Founder & Chairwoman, adds: "People are ready for a leapfrog beyond the basic and limited search that currently dominates the market. That's why we redefined AI assistance by giving each user a completely unique experience...and we made it free. Limits blur when there's true passion and commitment and MeetKai will be at the forefront of AI, conversation, and innovation". MeetKai is now available in the iOS , Google Play , and AppGallery App Stores at no cost. The app is currently available in the US, Mexico, Europe, and Asia, and will be available in more countries and launching more industry technology in the near future. About MeetKai Inc.

MeetKai Inc. is a pioneering company in language recognition and search technologies. Its unmatched portfolio includes a true multi-turn search recognition system. MeetKai's technology is deployed globally through iOS, Google Play, MeetKai website, and the AppGallery. Visit www.meetkai.com for more info & latest MeetKai news. Cindy Fischer

818-720-9241

cindy.fischer@clarity.pr View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/meetkai---the-next-gen-ai-assistant---launches-today-in-the-us-301282251.html SOURCE MeetKai

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[May 03, 2021] UNITE HERE Launches Website for Beneficiaries of Pension Plans Taken Over by Athene

Today, UNITE HERE launched a new website for beneficiaries of pension plans taken over by Athene: ApolloAtheneWatch.org. "Employees who have worked hard for their retirement benefits deserve clear information about what is happening with their retirement plan's assets," said Michael Hachey, a research analyst of UNITE HERE International Union. "Athene's pension transactions should be carefully scrutinized. When plan assets are put into complex financial engineering arrangements outside the governance of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), we need to ask tough questions. Are existing state insurance regulations and protections enough to protect retirees?" Athene, a Bermuda-based insurance company with a complex relationship to private equity giant Apollo Global Management, began taking over pension pln assets and obligations in 2017. In March, Athene entered into an agreement for an annuity buyout of JCPenney's pension plan as JCPenney is emerging from bankruptcy.



After a typical annuity buyout, if an insurance provider becomes insolvent and is unable to meet its obligations, beneficiaries' primary protection for recovering unpaid benefits would be the patchwork system of State Guaranty Associations. Some states would only cover $250,000 per annuitant. As Athene takes control of pension plan assets, it seeks to profit by earning more from investment returns than it is required to pay out to recipients. Athene uses Bermuda-based reinsurance subsidiaries to reinsure most deposits. Apollo manages most of Athene's assets in exchange for fees. Apollo invests some of Athene's assets in loans and structured debt products originated or securitized by Apollo affiliates.

Apollo Global Management created Athene in 2009 and has managed its assets since its inception. On March 8, Apollo announced its plan to acquire and merge with Athene. UNITE HERE's new website will provide information and resources to the beneficiaries of plans taken over by Athene. It includes facts about the recent JCPenney transaction, links to reporting on Athene's investment practices, and contact information for relevant regulatory agencies. Beneficiaries can use the site to sign up for updates. UNITE HERE is a labor organization that represents workers throughout the United States and Canada. www.unitehere.org View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210503005554/en/

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[May 03, 2021] Interos Launches Campaign to Address Need for De-Risking the Global Supply Chain to Ensure Business Operational Resilience and Global Economic Health

ARLINGTON, Va., May 03, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Interos, the operational resilience company, today launched a global call to arms for operational resilience in response to worldwide demand for immediate, end-to-end, and continuous supply-chain risk monitoring. The company will launch a multimedia campaign in partnership with strategic and creative agency, Amsterdam Berlin.

The pandemic has crystallized the need for an immediate focus on supply chain risk management. Unprecedented events -- from massive cyberattacks to physical blockages at the Suez Canal -- have put additional pressure on government entities and companies of all sizes to gain full visibility of their global supply chains, and to identify and eliminate potential risk factors across their supplier networks. Interos has been tapped by government agencies and Fortune 500 companies to continuously monitor their global suppliers and business partners for risk across a wide range of factors. In February 2021, the company reported continued unprecedented demand since 2019 as platform bookings grew by 354%, recurring revenues grew by 133%, and their workforce grew by 132%. "Supply chains have reached a critical inflection point, and blind spots can have massive implications," said Jennifer Bisceglie, CEO, Interos. "End-to-end supply chain risk visibility is a critical component of operational resilience. Our customers across sectors have made it their top priority -- from U.S. federal agencies, to aerospace ad defense, airlines, banking, and insurance companies. This is a Big Data problem that can only be solved through the application of AI and machine learning."



Interos enables customers across the financial services, aerospace & defense, technology, healthcare, and CPG industries to identify and avoid dangerous hidden risks and disruptions in their supplier networks. The platform monitors suppliers across key risk factors  financial, operational, environmental, social, governance, geographic, and cybersecurity. The Interos ad campaign for operational resilience, launching this week, will appear across major outlets such as The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, and Washington Post. Outdoor advertising in New York City and Washington DC is also part of the multimedia mix. "Interos is a very special company doing something essential to a better future," said Brian Elliott, Chairman, Amsterdam Berlin. "Based on many years of experience working with global brands and with emerging challenger brands, we went first on a strategic process of discovery, interviewing business and government leaders and stakeholders, to arrive at the truth of the Interos brand, and the truth of this moment. And this, in turn, inspired our creativity."

To learn more about Interos, visit www.interos.ai. About Interos

Interos is the operational resilience company  reinventing how companies manage their supply chains and business relationships  through our breakthrough SaaS platform that uses artificial intelligence to model and transform the ecosystems of complex businesses into a living global map, down to any single supplier, anywhere. Reducing months of backward-looking manual spreadsheet inputs to instant visualizations and continuous monitoring, the Interos Operational Resilience Cloud helps the worlds companies reduce risk, avoid disruptions, and achieve superior enterprise adaptability. Businesses can also uncover game-changing opportunities to radically change the way they see, learn and profit from their relationships. Based in Washington, DC, Interos serves global clients with business-critical, independent relationships across their primary operational areas: supply chain, financial, cybersecurity, regulatory and ESG compliance, and geographical. The fast-growing private company is led by CEO Jennifer Bisceglie and supported by investors Venrock and Kleiner Perkins. For more information, visit www.interos.ai. Contact

media@interos.ai



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Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 20:31:15|Editor: huaxia

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LONDON, May 3 (Xinhua) -- Britain's Queen Elizabeth II said Monday that the centenary of the creation of Northern Ireland provided "an opportunity to reflect on our togetherness and our diversity".

In a message to mark the 100th year since the founding of Northern Ireland, she called it "a significant centenary for both the United Kingdom and Ireland".

"This anniversary reminds us of our complex history," she said, adding that the continued peace in Northern Ireland is a credit to its people.

Northern Ireland was founded on May 3, 1921 when legislation was enacted, which created a border in Ireland for the first time, and led to its partition.

The peace process in Northern Ireland was "rightly credited to a generation of leaders who had the vision and courage to put reconciliation before division," she said.

"Above all, the continued peace is a credit to its people, upon whose shoulders the future rests," she said.

"Across generations, the people of Northern Ireland are choosing to build an inclusive, prosperous, and hopeful society, strengthened by the gains of the peace process. May this be our guiding thread in the coming years," she said.

Meanwhile, British Prime Minister Boris Johnston called the centenary a "very significant national anniversary".

But he said it was important to reflect on Northern Ireland's "complex history".

"People from all parts of Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, the United Kingdom and across the globe will approach this anniversary in different ways with differing perspectives," he said.

"While this is a moment of shared reflection, it is also an important opportunity to come together to celebrate Northern Ireland and build towards a better and even brighter future for all its people," he added.

Official events to mark the centenary of Northern Ireland will include a special post mark and a plan to plant a tree at every school, according to the BBC.

Adding to the complication of the situation in the region, Arlene Foster announced last week that she will step down as the leader of Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) and Northern Ireland's first minister.

Foster said she would step down as DUP leader on May 28 and as first minister at the end of June, according to the BBC.

The latest development follows calls within the party for a leadership contest amid concerns over the leadership's handling of the Northern Ireland Protocol and other issues, according to Sky News.

Nearly 90 police officers were hurt in sporadic riots which started in loyalist areas and spread to interface flashpoints last month in Northern Ireland, according to the BBC.

The rioting was attributed in part to anger over the Irish Sea border, which is a new trade border between Northern Ireland and other parts of Britain as a result of Brexit and the Northern Ireland Protocol.

Unionist parties and many loyalist communities object to the protocol as they believe it undermines Northern Ireland's status in Britain. Enditem
[May 03, 2021] Hannon Armstrong Foundation Establishes Climate Solutions Scholarship Program to Support Sustainability-Focused Students from Historically Underrepresented Communities

The Hannon Armstrong Foundation, a non-profit philanthropic organization funded by a Social Dividend received from Hannon Armstrong, a leading investor in climate solutions, today announced the establishment of the Hannon Armstrong Climate Solutions Scholarship Program to provide financial assistance for high-achieving, sustainability-focused students from underrepresented communities. At launch, the participating schools include Baltimore-based Morgan State University, Maryland's Preeminent Public Urban Research University, and Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, recently named to the Top 40 "Best Value Public Colleges" list by Princeton Review Reports. Applications for the Hannon Armstrong Climate Solutions Scholarship Program are open to rising undergraduate juniors and seniors from the two schools who have demonstrated interest in sustainability. The needs-based scholarships will cover the balance of full-year tuition and room & board expenses for an expected initial cohort of up to five undergraduate students interested in pursuing careers related to climate action and sustainability. Outreach efforts will focus on applicants from underrepresented populations and those who come from disadvantaged communities. Morgan State and Miami University will fully administer the scholarships, and recipients will be encouraged to seek mentorship opportunities with Hannon Armstrong employees. "Our foundation's announcement of its first grant to support sustainability-focused undergraduates from disadvantaged backgrounds serves as an important step forward in our journey to drive meaningful and sustainable impact at the intersection of climate action and social justice," said Hannon Armstrong Foundation President Jeffrey W. Eckel. "By providing critical financial support and mentorship opportunities to the next generation of climate leaders, we strengthen both our industry and the communities we serve." "At Morgan State University our students are committed to advancing research that meets the demands of a global society and addresses the complexities of challenging issues like sustainability and climate change. And with the addition of these much-needed financial resources we will be able to create more opportunities for students to further their studies," said David Wilson, president of Morgan State University. "We appreciate the Hannon Armstrong Foundation's recognition of the unique needs that some of our students have and the investment being made in the continuation of their success by way of the Climate Solutions Scholarship Program. We look forward to the fruit that will be born from this collaboration." "We are deeply grateful to the Hannon Armstrong Foundation for their leadership and vision, which align with two important priorities for Miami University - sustainability and scholarship support for disadvantaged and underrepresented students," said Gregory P. Crawford, President, Miami University. "Miami's Institute for the Environment and Sustainability, and our alumni, have been at the forefront of environmental studies and research for more than 50 years. This scholarship will help provide more opportunities to a new generation of students, who will be called upon to olve the most critical challenges of our time."



About Hannon Armstrong Foundation The Hannon Armstrong Foundation's mission is to accelerate a just transition toward an equitable, inclusive, and climate positive future. Through its quarterly Social Dividend, Hannon Armstrong (NYSE: HASI) funds the Hannon Armstrong Foundation, which provides cash and in-kind support to programs that align with our philanthropic priorities to preserve and restore natural resources and develop new solutions to pressing climate challenges; empower and create opportunity for marginalized individuals and communities; and strengthen the social fabric of the communities we serve to promote economic and climate resilience. For more information, please visit www.hannonarmstrong.org.

About Morgan State University Morgan State University, founded in 1867, is a Carnegie-classified high research (R2) institution offering nearly 120 academic programs leading to degrees from the baccalaureate to the doctorate. As Maryland's Preeminent Public Urban Research University, and the only university to have its entire campus designated as a National Treasure by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, Morgan serves a multiethnic and multiracial student body and seeks to ensure that the doors of higher education are opened as wide as possible to as many as possible. For more information about Morgan State University, visit www.morgan.edu. About Miami University Established in 1809, Miami University is consistently ranked among the top 50 national public universities by the U.S. News & World Report for providing students with an Ivy League-quality education at a public-school price. Located in quintessential college town Oxford, Ohio-with regional campuses in Hamilton and Middletown, a learning center in West Chester, and a European study center in Luxembourg-Miami serves more than 21,600 undergraduates across 120 areas of study, and more than 2,500 graduate students through 70 master's and doctoral degree programs. At this comprehensive research university, students engage and conduct research with premiere teacher-scholars. Miami adds $2.3 billion each year to Ohio's economy through innovative partnerships and job creation. Miami is a NCAA Division I school, serving more than 500 student-athletes across 19 varsity sports. For more information, visit MiamiOH.edu. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210503005560/en/

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[May 03, 2021] Essentium Takes 3D Printing to New Horizons with Partners and Customers

AUSTIN, Texas, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- At AMUG 2021, Essentium, Inc.  , a leading innovator of industrial additive manufacturing (AM) solutions, will showcase how its work with partners and customers, including Mercury Systems and Rolls-Royce, is advancing AM in the aerospace and defense sectors. Throughout AMUG, Essentium will illustrate industrial-scale AM innovation breakthroughs developed in an open ecosystem with customers and partners to deliver unparalleled agility and economics in manufacturing. Mercury Systems, a leading electronics manufacturer serving customers from government agencies and defense contractors to commercial aerospace businesses and tech companies, needed to address a major bottleneck in the conformal coating manufacturing process for printed circuit boards (PCB). It is critical to prevent the conformal coating from getting into connectors in the PCB in the process. Previously, Mercury used a taping method, which was time-consuming and created bottlenecks in the manufacturing process. It also used injection-molded boots, which allowed technicians to quickly protect PCBs and eliminate labor bottlenecks, but the lead time and cost proved unsustainable. To solve these issues, Mercury worked with Essentium to explore the possibilities of additive manufacturing as an alternative to injection-molded materials. Using the Essentium High Speed Extrusion (HSE) 3D Printing Platform and Essentim's TPU 74D-Z, Mercury was able to design, iterate, and print enough boots for production use in one day, decreasing lead-time by nearly 85%. For the same PCB product order that cost Mercury $9,000 on tooling and parts, the 3D printed equivalent was $500, reducing cost by 95%.



Essentium is also testing and developing new materials and processes using the Essentium HSE 3D Printer for the Department of Defense (DoD) and with related parties to assess the impact of environmental influences on the Essentium materials ecosystem. Said Rob Proctor, Chief of Materials Engineering - Defense, Rolls-Royce: "Materials are appropriately selected for environmental and performance requirements, and for flight-line applications Essentium worked with Rolls-Royce to evaluate the effects of common aircraft fluids on the mechanical performance of Essentium materials."

Beyond ground tooling, the Essentium materials solutions are applicable within the DoD ecosystem to create 3D printed end-use parts for aircraft, assembly lines, logistics solutions, and jigs and fixtures. Said Elisa Teipel, Ph.D., Chief Development Officer, Essentium, Inc.: "Mercury Systems is leading the way in applying 3D printing technology to make mission-critical technologies profoundly more accessible to aerospace and defense companies. Working with customers and partners, we will continue to introduce new AM materials that unlock enormous speed, economic and innovation advantages for the aerospace and defense industry. Ultimately, we are working together to ensure AM improves manufacture readiness for the warfighter." About Essentium Essentium, Inc. provides industrial 3D printing solutions that are disrupting traditional manufacturing processes by bringing product strength and production speed together, at scale, with a no-compromise engineering material set. Essentium manufactures and delivers innovative industrial 3D printers and materials, enabling the world's top manufacturers to bridge the gap between 3D printing and machining and embrace the future of additive manufacturing. Essentium, Inc. is ISO 9001:2015 and ITAR certified. Media Contact:

Debbie@RaineMakers.com Media Materials: https://essentium.com/press-room/ View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/essentium-takes-3d-printing-to-new-horizons-with-partners-and-customers-301282298.html SOURCE Essentium, Inc.

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[May 03, 2021] CPI Card Group Inc. to Release First Quarter 2021 Results on May 11, 2021

CPI Card Group Inc. (OTCQX: PMTS) (TSX: PMTS) ("CPI Card Group" or the "Company"), a payment technology company and leading provider of credit, debit and prepaid solutions, today announced it will issue a press release reporting financial results for its first quarter 2021 before the market opens on May 11, 2021. Consistent with prior earnings releases, the Company plans to provide written commentary regarding its quarterly performance and other business matters in lieu of an earnings call. The earnings press release and additional written commentary will be made available at http://investo.cpicardgroup.com. The Company expects to resume hosting an earnings conference call when second quarter 2021 financial results are reported.



About CPI Card Group Inc. CPI Card Group is a payment technology company and leading provider of credit, debit and prepaid solutions delivered physically, digitally and on-demand. CPI helps our customers foster connections and build their brands through innovative and reliable solutions, including financial payment cards, personalization and Software-as-a-Service ( SaaS (News - Alert) ) instant issuance. CPI has more than 20 years of experience in the payments market and is a trusted partner to financial institutions and payments services providers. Serving customers from locations throughout the United States, CPI has a large network of high security facilities, each of which is registered as PCI (News - Alert) compliant by one or more of the payment brands: Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Discover. Learn more at www.cpicardgroup.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210503005577/en/

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[May 03, 2021] Avenue 8 Closes $14 Million Series A to Modernize the Real Estate Brokerage Industry

Avenue 8, the only mobile-first residential real estate brokerage, today announced $14 million in Series A funding co-led by Threshold Ventures and Craft Ventures. The new funding will fuel Avenue 8's growth as it continues to serve the needs of more agents and expand into major markets. Built expressly to make all agents more effective and allow them to keep more of their income, Avenue 8 has seen unprecedented organic growth and demand since its roll out in San Francisco and the greater Southern California market last year. Craft Ventures general partner Jeff Fluhr will join the company's Board of Directors. As entrepreneurial agents and teams seek out more digital fire power and know-how from their brokerage, they are joining Avenue 8 at a rapid clip. Co-founded by Justin Fichelson, a top 1% national residential real estate agent, and Michael Martin, former managing partner at Code and Theory, Avenue 8 has seen 25% compounded monthly agent growth and 96% customer retention since launching in March 2020. This is due in large part to the technology powering the Avenue 8 platform, which produces 4x more effective marketing ROI than industry benchmarks-saving agents hundreds of hours and unlocking millions of dollars in potential commission. Avenue 8's rapid growth attracted new co-lead investor, Threshold Ventures, the early-stage venture firm behind Livongo, BetterUp, Divvy, and other disruptive market leaders. Existing investors Craft Ventures, Zigg Capital, and Good Friends also participated in this round. The new funding follows Avenue 8's December 2020 $4 million seed round, and will drive expansion into major markets like New Yor City and Miami later this year, in addition to enhancing product development.



"By giving agents the latest tools and services they need to be more effective at their jobs, Avenue 8 has validated strong demand with the current and next generation of realtors and consumers," said Chirag Chotalia, Partner at Threshold Ventures. "Justin and Michael are founders with the innate ability to recruit next-level operators, enabling the company to gain traction and capitalize on the clear market gap between a high-value brand experience and an agent-aligned business model." "We are thrilled to have Threshold join our partners at Zigg, Craft, and Good Friends in collaborating with Avenue 8 as we drive the generational value shift within the brokerage industry," said Justin Fichelson, co-founder, Avenue 8. "Threshold has long been a trusted partner to founder-led companies; the partners embraced our vision and swiftly engaged with the leadership team to understand our needs, provide strategic counsel, and connect us with the resources necessary to see us through our next phase of growth."

Avenue 8's subscription-based model gives agents the end-to-end support they need to be successful and competitive in today's fast-paced market. The company remains laser-focused on empowering their community of agents with a platform that drives impact for buyers and sellers-affording them more autonomy and flexibility in how they manage their real estate business. Avenue 8 has stayed ahead of demand by bringing on top talent to enhance key business functions, and consistently introducing platform upgrades and new service offerings such as performance marketing automation. "We've experienced extraordinary demand since we first introduced Avenue 8 to the market, which has only intensified our commitment to developing a new way forward in real estate," said Michael Martin, co-founder, Avenue 8. "This is a significant investment that effectively capitalizes the business for breakout growth at an opportune time in a strong housing market. We're honored to have an industry veteran like Craft Ventures' Jeff Fluhr join our board to guide us through challenges and share in our successes." "Avenue 8 is swiftly executing on its vision to upend the traditional real estate model," said Jeff Fluhr, General Partner at Craft Ventures and board member at Avenue 8. "Michael and Justin have created a business model that's more capital-efficient, more agent-friendly, and more focused than other players in the industry. We're very excited to be on this journey as Avenue 8 trail-blazes a new paradigm for real estate transactions." About Avenue 8 Avenue 8 is a digital and mobile-first residential real estate brokerage for modern agents, empowering them to be more entrepreneurial, to close from anywhere, and to keep substantially more of their income. With an emphasis on simplicity and design, Avenue 8 provides services at scale through a mix of automation and human expertise, from marketing a home to making an offer. For more information, visit: https://www.avenue8.com/. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210503005579/en/

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[May 03, 2021] Open Letter to Minister Mombourquette From Early Childhood Educators

The following letter was sent to Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development Derrick Mombourquette today on behalf of early childhood educators working in child care centres across Nova Scotia, represented by the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE). Early childhood educators are asking the minister for a smaller staff-to-children ratio, lower classroom capacity limits, defined cohorts and larger spaces, to reduce the potential spread of COVID-19 within child care centres. Dear Minister Mombourquette: Early childhood educators have become a key piece to maintain essential public services in the province, especially now as we are experiencing the highest case numbers since the onset of the pandemic. Without their contributions, many essential workers would be unable to provide the services Nova Scotians must have during this time of crisis. While everyone else is required to work from home, stay out of schools, maintain masking and social distancing protocols, and reduce contact with people outside their homes, early childhood educators have been mandated - without any voice in the decisions made - to remain at work in child care centres. That work will include providing space for an unknown number of children, with unknown care and education needs, and who will introduce greater risk of contact with the virus to staff and the children. ast week, the Premier finally acknowledged the critical role of early childhood educators in our society - but words of gratitude are not enough.



To continue providing child care as an essential public service, as dictated by the provincial government, early childhood educators are imploring the government to take immediate action on two issues that will reduce risk for children and early childhood educators in centres. Immediately lower the group size (ratio) of classrooms and reduce the number of defined groups (cohorts) within child care centres

Find larger spaces for care to be provided with additional distancing between children Staff-to-children ratio, classroom capacity and defined cohorts

COVID-19 moves with people, and limiting its spread requires a reduction of the number of contacts within classrooms and cohorts within the centres. We implore you to immediately reduce the numbers in each child care centre to a maximum 50% of licensed capacity for each classroom. Also, centres already have established cohorts as per the guidance document sent to them by Public Health. Those cohorts must be maintained. Changing or increasing the number of children in those cohorts will unnecessarily increase the risk. These combined measures will reduce the potential spread of any outbreaks within child care centres.

Larger spaces to allow safe distancing

The physical space available to each class or cohort varies by facility, but regardless of the current configurations, larger spaces will allow for more distancing and less risk for children and early childhood educators. While much of the province is in lockdown, countless buildings are sitting idle, including public schools and municipal recreation centres. We urgently call on the government to make use of these empty spaces to allow classes and cohorts for essential workers and those from smaller childcare centers to utilize this infrastructure and enhance our ability to keep the maximum distance between children. Naomi Stewart

CUPE Child Care Sector Coordinator CUPE Nova Scotia is the second largest union in the province with more than 19,000 members. CUPE represents approximately 200 early childhood educators working in child care centres in Halifax and Bridgewater. :sm/cope 491 View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210503005620/en/

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Alexander Group to Deliver Operations Forum At a Pivotal Time

The Alexander Group, Inc., leading revenue growth consultancy to Global 2000 companies, announces the annual Operations Forum to be held virtually on June 8-9, 2021. Through a year of accelerated change, unpredictability and digital ramp-up, Operations leaders have emerged as the "Champions of Strategic Change."

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210503005652/en/

2021 Operations Forum (Graphic: Business Wire)

Hundreds of guests across Revenue, Sales & Commercial Operations roles will explore how cross-industry leading companies are deploying new growth models this year, accelerating the return from their digital investments and in turn, making hybrid elling a reality for the 24x7 customer.







The powerful 2-day agenda spans the hottest topics on the minds of ops leaders today: the subscription economy, next chapter revenue operations, digital customer experience, scalability for growth, partner enablement, data and dashboards, and field/inside talent productivity.

Industry leaders from Ansell, HP, Andersen Corp, Boston Scientific, Cisco, Facebook, Honeywell, Reddit, Salesforce, Thermo Fisher, Wolters Kluwer, Moody's Analytics, Warburg Pincus (News - Alert) and more have joined a world-class roster.

"Revenue, Sales and Commercial Operations is a game-changer for growth, and the Operations Forum is a key event for these executives. Across industries we're seeing the role of revenue operations become more critical. It unifies the lens across marketing, sales and service functions while putting the right tools and processes in place to maximize customer lifetime value." - Gary Tubridy, Senior Vice President, Alexander Group

Executives can request an invitation through Betty Corrado, Executive Director & Forum Lead - bcorrado@alexandergroup.com. Sponsor companies are encouraged to contact her for a prospectus.

View the full agenda and impressive speaker lineup here.

About Alexander Group

The Alexander Group provides revenue growth consulting services to the world's leading sales, marketing and service organizations. Founded in 1985, Alexander Group combines deep experience, proven methodologies and data-driven insights to help revenue leaders anticipate change, align their go-to-customer resources with company goals and make better informed decisions with one goal in mind-to grow revenue. The Alexander Group has offices in Atlanta, Chicago, London, New York, San Francisco, Sao Paulo, Scottsdale and Vero Beach.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210503005652/en/
[May 03, 2021] HCA Healthcare's Continental Division/HealthONE Named to the IBM Watson Health 15 Top Health Systems List

The HCA Healthcare Continental Division, which includes HealthONE in Denver, CO and Wesley Healthcare in Wichita, KS, has been named to the IBM (News - Alert) Watson Health 15 Top Health Systems list. This is the second consecutive year the HCA Healthcare Continental Division has been recognized with this honor as one of the top performing health systems in the U.S. and the only systems in Colorado and Kansas, respectively. The annual list was published today by Fortune. IBM Watson Health has identified the top health systems from a rigorous evaluation of 324 health systems and 2,522 hospitals that are members of health systems. The annual list recognizes excellence in clinical outcomes, operational efficiency and patient experience. IBM Watson Health established the list to help identify top performance benchmarks that may help other healthcare organizations achieve consistent, balanced, and sustainable high performance. "To be recognized as one of the best health systems in the country once is an exceptional accomplishment. To be recognized twice exemplifies the consistently superlative efforts of our hospital teams," said Sylvia Young, President and CEO of HCA Healthcare's Continental Division. "We hire top talent with a passion for a safe, compassionate patient experience. From our hospital leadership, to those at the bedside providing direct patient care, to our colleagues in all areas of support services, we have teams whose focus never wavers from fulfilling our mission that 'Above all else, we are committed to the care and improvement of human life.' I am honored to work with such talented, caring and devoted colleagues and physicians and serve our communities." As part of HCA Healthcare's Continental Division, HealthONE serves the metro Denver area and Wesley Healthcare serves the greater Wichita area treating tens of thousands of patients each year with the highest-quality care by nurses, providers, and passionate colleagues dedicated to the best possible outcomes for each and every patient. The system covering Denver and Wichita, which include two pediatric hospitals and a behavioral health campus, work together to bring a higher-level of care to patients from across the multi-state region. HealthONE and Wesley Healthcare's long-standing commitment to exceptional patient care ina high-quality environment has been recognized by a variety of third party, independent validators.



This recognition demonstrates the HCA Healthcare Continental Division's ongoing commitment to prioritize patient-centered care. As compared to their peer health systems, the organizations included on the IBM Watson Health 15 Top Health Systems list had better results on performance indicators intended to measure clinical outcomes, operational efficiency, and patient experience. These include lower inpatient mortality rates and fewer patient complications, considering patient severity; care that resulted in fewer healthcare-associated infections; lower 30-day readmission rates; shorter lengths of stay; faster emergency care; higher scores on patient ratings of their overall hospital experience; and lower episode-of-care expenses for the in-hospital through aftercare process. "We are proud of all of the hospitals, health systems and their dedicated clinicians and staff included among the IBM Watson Health 15 Top Health Systems," said Irene Dankwa-Mullan, MD, MPH, Chief Health Equity Officer and Deputy Chief Health officer at IBM Watson Health. "These organizations demonstrate a relentless commitment to high value, patient-centered care and innovation and we applaud them for their dedication and achievements."

For more information, visit http://www.100tophospitals.com/. About HCA Healthcare Continental Division The HCA Healthcare Continental Division includes HealthONE in Denver, CO and Wesley Healthcare in Wichita, KS. Consisting of 10 acute care hospitals, one rehabilitation hospital, two pediatric hospitals, a behavioral health and wellness campus, multiple freestanding emergency departments, numerous ambulatory surgery centers, dozens of physician clinics and seven urgent care clinics. The combined systems employ more than 14,000 and treat more than 100,000 patients annually. Notably, the HCA Healthcare Continental Division has been recognized two-consecutive years as an IBM Watson Health 15-Top Health System. Both systems of care in Denver and Wichita work together to provide a higher level of care for patients across eight states by supporting the entire healthcare continuum. The HCA Healthcare Continental Division supports the overall HCA Healthcare mission that, "above all else, we are committed to the care and improvement of human life." About IBM Watson Health 100 Top Hospitals Program The IBM Watson Health 100 Top Hospitals Program's annual studies result in the Fortune/IBM Watson Health 100 Top Hospitals list, Fortune/IBM Watson Health 50 Top Cardiovascular Hospitals list and IBM Watson Health 15 Top Health Systems list. Organizations do not apply or pay for this honor or pay to promote their award. Award-winning hospitals and health systems serve as a model of excellence for the industry. Visit http://www.100tophospitals.com/ for more information. About IBM Watson Health IBM Watson Health is a data, analytics, and technology partner for the health industry. Supported by the innovation of IBM and intelligence of Watson, we are committed to helping build smarter health ecosystems. Through the combination of our deep industry expertise in health, data and analytics, actionable insights, and reputation for security and trust, Watson Health is working together with its clients and partners to help them achieve simpler processes, better care insights, faster breakthroughs, and improved experiences for people around the world. Learn more at ibm.com/watson/health. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210503005668/en/

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[May 03, 2021] GLOBAL TECH INDUSTRIES GROUP, INC. EXECUTES NON-BINDING LETTER OF INTENT TO EXPAND PARTNERSHIP WITH ALT 5 SIGMA TO LAUNCH A REGISTERED ALTERNATIVE TRADING SYSTEM ("ATS")

New York, NY, May 03, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Global Tech Industries Group, Inc. (OTCQB: GTII) (GTII or the Company), www.gtii-us.com, a Nevada corporation, is pleased to announce that it is furthering its endeavors with ALT 5 Sigma Inc., to launch a Registered Alternative Trading System (ATS).

According to the Company, GTII plans to acquire a controlling interest in Alt 5s Beyond Markets project, which includes the ALT 5 licensed trading platform, order management, order matching and complete suite of front-to-back-office applications and FIX protocol API. The Company also intends to acquire a membership interest in Wynston Hill Capital LLC, a New York based FINRA Member Broker Dealer, as well as an equity stake in Wynston Hill Ventures Inc. David Reichman, Chairman of GTII, stated, The registration of Beyond Markets as an ATS could enable the Company to launch a blockchain-powered securities trading platform, similar to Overstocks T-Zero. The accelerated evolution of financial markets globally and our focus on deploying blockchain-powered solutions to solve trading, clearing and settlement issues in trading securities may contribute to sustainable value creation for all of our stakeholders. About Global Tech Industries Group, Inc.: GTII, a publicly traded Company incorporated in the state of Nevada, specializing in the pursuit of acquiring new and innovative technologies. Please follow our Company at: www.otcmarkets.com/stock/GTII About Alt 5 Sigma Inc.: ALT 5 is a fintech company specializing in the development and deployment of digital assets trading and exchange platforms. Alt 5 was founded by financial industry specialists out of the necessity to provide the digital asset economy with security, accessibility, transparency, and compliance. ALT 5 provides its clients the ability to buy, sell, and hold digital assets in a safe and secure environment deployed with the best practices of the financial industry. ALT 5's products and services are available to Banks, Broker-Dealers, Funds, Family Offices, Professional Traders, Retail Traders, Digital Asset Exchanges, Digital Asset Brokers, Blockchain Developers, and Financial Information Providers. ALT 5's digita asset custodian services are secured by GardaWorld. GardaWorld is the world's largest privately-owned business solutions and security services company, offering cash management services.



For more information, visit www.alt5sigma.com. About Wynston Hill Capital LLC: Wynston Hill Capital is a full-service boutique investment bank that works with established companies across a diverse universe of industries. The company plans to add value to its individual clients by comprehending and focusing on the short and long-term financial and strategic goals of its clients.

For more information, visit www.wynstonhillcapital.com. About Wynston Hill Ventures Inc.: Wynston Hill Ventures is a global advisory firm which specializes in the financing of emerging growth companies. Wynston Hill Ventures advisory and consulting services assist companies throughout their development from seed to IPO. The Company works closely with FINRA registered investment banks, including but not limited to Wynston Hill Capital LLC, to fulfill offering placements and underwriting. For more information, visit https://wynstonhillventures.com. Safe Harbor Forward-Looking Statements:

This press release may contain forward looking statements that are based on current expectations, forecasts, and assumptions that involve risks as well as uncertainties that could cause actual outcomes and results to differ materially from those anticipated or expected, including statements related to the amount and timing of expected revenues related to our financial performance, expected income, distributions, and future growth for upcoming quarterly and annual periods. These risks and uncertainties are further defined in filings and reports by the Company with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Actual results and the timing of certain events could differ materially from those projected in or contemplated by the forward-looking statements due to a number of factors detailed from time to time in our filings with the SEC. Among other matters, the Company may not be able to sustain growth or achieve profitability based upon many factors including but not limited to the risk that we will not be able to find and acquire businesses and assets that will enable us to become profitable. Reference is hereby made to cautionary statements set forth in the Company's most recent SEC filings. We have incurred and will continue to incur significant expenses in our development stage, noting that there is no assurance that we will generate enough revenues to offset those costs in both the near and long term. New lines of business may expose us to additional legal and regulatory costs and unknown exposure(s), the impact of which cannot be predicted at this time. Words such as estimate, project, predict, will, would, should, could, may, might, anticipate, plan, intend, believe, expect, aim, goal, target, objective, likely or similar expressions that convey the prospective nature of events or outcomes generally indicate forward-looking statements. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of this press release. Unless legally required, we undertake no obligation to update, modify or withdraw any forward-looking statements, because of new information, future events or otherwise. Blaine Riley  br@intlmonetary.com

International Monetary

620 Newport Center Drive, #1100

Newport Beach, CA 92660

949.200.4601



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[May 03, 2021] Lane Health Launches Innovative Health Savings Account Integrated with Next Generation Credit Product from WebBank

Lane Health Inc. ("Lane") today announced that it is launching an innovative Health Savings Account (HSA). Offered through participating employers, the Lane HSA includes an Advance feature that works like a line of credit through the HSA that employees can use to pay for qualified medical expenditures. The Lane Health "Card with a Heart" provides inclusive, on-demand, swipe-and-go access to the Advance feature with no credit checks. The Card with a Heart makes high deductible health plans less scary, allowing them to work for everyone - not just the few who can afford to contribute to, and save money in, an HSA. The Advance is issued and funded by WebBank, through Lane Health, with no risk to the employer. Advances are repaid through pre-tax HSA contributions over a twelve-month period, regardless of when the Advance is initiated during the calendar year. And employers save as well, since they incur no payroll taxes on dollars that employees contribute to an HSA. Based on WebBank's strong commitment to support financial innovation in the patient healthcare sector, the Bank is excited to issue and fund the Advance and also to invest in the Lane Health platform. "We were fortunate to have a number of partners willing to provide debt and equity funding to the Lane platform. WebBank immediately grasped the significance of our value proposition for the consumer: medical cost savings, improved quality of care and peace of mind. They offered a compelling package of committed capital to support our mission," said Brad Gambill, Lane's Co-Founder and CEO. "More importatly, the WebBank team provided advice and expertise, gleaned from the bank's many years as an originator and lender through its portfolio of leading FinTech partners. WebBank has been an invaluable partner in helping us to develop the policies and processes that must be in place to offer this exciting product."



"The increasing cost of healthcare and healthcare insurance continues to drive the need for innovative credit and payment plans," said Jason Lloyd, President of WebBank, "and we are excited about the launch of this next generation credit product that is fully integrated with the Lane Health Savings Account product." About Lane

Lane was founded in 2019 to provide consumers with control over health care quality and cost through an integrated platform of engagement, education, ease of use and tax savings. For more information, please visit www.lanehealth.com About WebBank WebBank is a Utah chartered Industrial Bank headquartered in Salt Lake City, UT. Since its inception in 1997, WebBank has originated and funded over $138 billion in consumer and commercial credit products. As "The Bank Behind the Brand" WebBank is a national issuer of consumer and small business credit products through Strategic Partner (Brand) platforms, which include retailers, manufacturers, finance companies, and financial technology (FinTech) companies. The Bank is a leading player in the digital lending space, driving innovation in financial products through Strategic Partner platforms. WebBank engages in a full range of banking activities including consumer and commercial loan products, revolving lines of credit, credit cards, private-label card issuance, auto-refinancing and more. The Bank provides capital in the form of asset-backed lending and other credit facilities to Strategic Partner platforms, credit funds, and other lenders, with a targeted focus on specialty finance assets. The Bank is also a leading provider of commercial insurance premium finance products through its wholly owned subsidiary National Partners. For more information, please visit www.webbank.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210503005674/en/

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[May 03, 2021] 5N Plus to Release First Quarter Fiscal 2021 Results on May 10, 2021 and to Hold Its Virtual Annual General Meeting of Shareholders on May 13, 2021

MONTREAL, May 3, 2021 /CNW Telbec/ - 5N Plus Inc. (TSX: VNP) will release its first quarter results after market hours on May 10, 2021. 5N Plus will host a conference call on May 11, 2021 at 8:00 a.m. (Eastern Daylight Time) to discuss the results. 5N Plus also announced that it will hold its annual meeting in a virtual only format, which will be conducted via a live webcast. Q1 2021 Results

To join the conference toll free, please dial 1-888-664-6392, or 416-764-8659 in Toronto. The conference access code is 09260209. To access via webcast please visit the "Investors Center" section of www.5nplus.com . Preregistration will be available. Please note that this conference call will be accompanied by an online presentation available to download on our website and that a plaback will be available two hours after the event at 1-888-390-0541, until May 18, 2021. The access code is 260209.



Annual Meeting of Shareholders

Recognizing the widespread cancellation of public events for the protection of individuals and public safety in the face of the ongoing COVID19 pandemic, this year again, 5N Plus will hold its annual general meeting in a virtual only format, which will be conducted via live webcast at https://web.lumiagm.com/250800254 on May 13, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. (Eastern Daylight Time). About 5N Plus Inc.

5N Plus is a leading global producer of specialty semiconductors and performance materials. The Company's ultra-pure materials often form the core element of its customer products. These customers rely on 5N Plus's products to enable performance and sustainability in their own products. 5N Plus deploys a range of proprietary and proven technologies to develop and manufacture its products. The Company's products enable various applications in a number of key industries including renewable energy, security, space, pharmaceutical, medical imaging, and industrial and additive manufacturing. Headquartered in Montreal, Quebec, 5N Plus operates R&D, manufacturing and commercial centers in strategically located facilities around the world including Europe, North America and Asia. The Company's mission is to be critical to its customers, valued by its employees and trusted by its shareholders. The Company's core values focus on integrity, commitment and customer development along with emphasis on sustainable development, continuous improvement, health and safety.

SOURCE 5N Plus Inc.

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Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 20:35:22|Editor: huaxia

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Pakistani soldiers patrol on a road during a lockdown to control the spread of COVID-19 in Lahore, Pakistan, on May 2, 2021. (Photo by Jamil Ahmed/Xinhua)

-- Pakistan to commence local production of China's COVID-19 vaccine: official;

-- Maldives to ban non-essential travel between islands;

-- India reports over 360,000 new cases, tally nears 20 million.

HONG KONG, May 3 (Xinhua) -- The following are the latest developments of the COVID-19 pandemic in Asia-Pacific countries on Monday:

ISLAMABAD -- Special Assistant to the Pakistani Prime Minister on Health Faisal Sultan said Monday that the local production of China's single-dose CanSino COVID-19 vaccine is about to commence in the country to facilitate its vaccination drive.

People wearing face masks cross a street in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, May 2, 2021. (Photo by Chong Voon Chung/Xinhua)

KUALA LUMPUR -- Malaysia reported 2,500 new COVID-19 infections, the Health Ministry said, bringing the national total to 417,512. Health Ministry Director-General Noor Hisham Abdullah said in a press statement that four of the new cases are imported and 2,496 local transmissions.

A medical worker gets inoculated with COVID-19 vaccine in Colombo, Sri Lanka, April 29, 2021. (Photo by Ajith Perera/Xinhua)

COLOMBO -- The Sri Lankan government has informed all operating airlines to bring in a maximum of 75 passengers from one flight into the island country following a sharp rise in the number of new COVID-19 patients, local media reported.

All international airlines were informed of the government's decision over the weekend and this will come into effect from Monday, a statement from the government said.

Police block a road on the border of Kampong Speu province and Kandal province in Cambodia to prevent inter-provincial travel on April 7, 2021. (Photo by Ly Lay/Xinhua)

PHNOM PENH -- Cambodia reported 841 new COVID-19 cases, pushing the national tally to 15,361, the Ministry of Health said in a statement.

Cambodia has been enduring the third wave of COVID-19 community transmission since Feb. 20. In a bid to flatten the infection curve, the country has imposed a lockdown in Phnom Penh and adjacent Ta Khmau city in Kandal from April 15 to May 5, and in the coastal city of Preah Sihanouk from April 23 to May 6.

A man gets inoculated with a dose of the Sinovac COVID-19 vaccine in Manila, the Philippines on May 1, 2021. (Xinhua/Rouelle Umali)

MANILA -- The Philippines' Department of Health (DOH) reported 7,255 new COVID-19 infections, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in the Southeast Asian country to 1,062,225.

The death toll climbed to 17,525 after 94 more patients died from the viral disease, the DOH said.

People line up to receive the COVID-19 vaccine outside a vaccination center in Male, Maldives, on March 15, 2021. (Xinhua)

MALE -- The Maldives' Health Protection Agency (HPA) has banned non-essential travel between islands and atolls in a bid to curb a new surge in COVID-19 infections, local media reported.

Non-essential travel between islands and atolls will be banned starting Tuesday, according to a circular signed by Director General of Public Health Maimoona Aboobakuru on Sunday. The ban does not apply to trips between Male, Villimale, Hulhumale, Thilafushi and Gulhifalhu.

People wearing face masks are seen at a supermarket amid the COVID-19 pandemic in Suva, Fiji, April 23, 2021. (Xinhua/Zhang Yongxing)

SUVA -- According to Fiji Broadcasting Corporation (FBC), Fiji's vaccination program kicked off on Monday morning in Lautoka and Nadi, and will continue until Friday.

People wearing face masks visit a shopping center in Port Moresby of Papua New Guinea (PNG), Sept. 4, 2020. (Photo by Yu Shengjie/Xinhua)

SYDNEY -- Papua New Guinea (PNG) will launch a national vaccine roll-out on Tuesday to combat rising cases of COVID-19.

Police Commissioner and Controller of the PNG COVID-19 National Pandemic Response David Manning said most of PNG's 22 provinces would have received their share of the AstraZeneca vaccine, and done their training in preparation for the national roll-out scheduled for Wednesday.

A passenger uses a breath detector, GeNose, for COVID-19 test as requirement for passengers before they take train to travel back to hometown for Eid al-Fitr festival at Pasar Senen train station in Jakarta, Indonesia, May 1, 2021. (Xinhua/Agung Kuncahya B.)

JAKARTA -- The Indonesian government has extended its micro-scale community activities restriction (PPKM) and also expanded it to five other provinces to prevent the transmission of COVID-19, according to an official.

A barber volunteer cuts hair for local residents in Bangkok, Thailand, April 23, 2021. (Xinhua/Rachen Sageamsak)

BANGKOK -- Thailand reported 2,041 new COVID-19 cases, taking the total tally to top 70,000, with 31 new deaths, the highest number in a single day, as the country's worst coronavirus outbreak continued to rage.

Of the new cases, 2,040 were domestic infections while the other one was imported, according to the Center for the COVID-19 Situation Administration.

A patient receives treatment inside a COVID-19 ward in a hospital, in Bangalore, India, April 30, 2021. (Str/Xinhua)

NEW DELHI -- A total of 368,147 new COVID-19 cases were reported in India in the past 24 hours, taking the total tally to 19,925,604, according to the health ministry.

Besides, 3,417 more deaths were recorded since Sunday morning, bringing the death toll to 218,949.

Aerial photo taken on April 19, 2021 shows a flight carrying the first batch of passengers from Australia after the opening of quarantine-free travel arriving in Wellington, New Zealand. (Photo by Mark Tantrum/Xinhua)

WELLINGTON -- Two-way quarantine-free travel will commence between New Zealand and the Cook Islands on May 17, pending final confirmation by the two countries' health authorities. The confirmation also involves airport and airline readiness for the opening of the bubble.

New Zealand reported four cases of COVID-19 in managed isolation and no new cases of COVID-19 in the community.

People line up to receive COVID-19 test in Hwaseong of Gyeonggi Province, South Korea, March 14, 2021. (Photo by Seo Yu-Seok/Xinhua)

SEOUL -- South Korea reported 488 more cases of COVID-19 compared to 24 hours ago, raising the total number of infections to 123,728. The daily caseload was down from 606 the previous day, falling below 500 in seven days due to fewer virus tests over the weekend.
[May 03, 2021] Dream Impact Trust Reports First Quarter Results and the Release of Dream's Impact Management System

DREAM IMPACT TRUST (TSX: MPCT.UN) ("Dream Impact", "MPCT", "we" or the "Trust") today reported its financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2021 ("first quarter"). The Trust is pleased to announce the release of Dream's inaugural impact report which outlines the Dream Impact Management System. This is a significant milestone for the Trust as the framework provides a systematic and transparent approach to defining and measuring impact across the Trust's portfolio. Each of the qualifying impact assets within our portfolio has defined impact pathways which are aligned with one of our three impact verticals: environmental sustainability and resilience, attainable and affordable housing, and inclusive communities, in addition to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The Trust intends to benchmark its performance, on an annual basis, against specific targets that will conform to principles set out by reputable third parties. We intend to continuously monitor and update our progress on our pathways through an internal scorecard and governance process. The Dream Impact Management System will be independently verified by a third-party consultant over the next year. Dream's Impact Report can be found here. "Just over six months ago, we formally announced the repositioning of the Trust into a pure-play impact investment vehicle," said Michael Cooper (News - Alert) , Portfolio Manager. "With the release of our impact management system today, we are reinforcing our commitment to manage the impact generated by the Trust's portfolio in a systematic and transparent manner. With the Trust's high-quality portfolio and robust impact framework, we are focused on growing the vehicle, strategically deploying capital and executing on our extensive development pipeline to generate attractive market returns for our unitholders and be a leader in this field. Since the announcement of our impact investing strategy, we are pleased the unit price has increased by 36% and are focused on reducing the discount further. With the release of our framework, progress on our 2020 business plan, and being the first publicly traded impact business in Canada, we are working towards continuing to narrow the value gap." Selected financial and operating metrics for the three months ended March 31, 2021 are summarized below:







For the three months ended March 31, 2021 2020 Condensed consolidated results of operations Net income (loss) $ (6,212) $ 5,152 Cash generated from operating activities 6,009 394 Net income (loss) per unit?? (0.10) 0.07 Cash generated from operating activities per unit 0.09 0.01 Distributions declared and paid per unit 0.10 0.10 Units outstanding - end of period 64,885,017 69,121,551 Units outstanding - weighted average 64,956,996 69,076,108

In the first quarter, the Trust reported a net loss of $6.2 million, compared to net income of $5.2 million in the prior year. The change in earnings period-over-period was primarily driven by fair value adjustments and fluctuations in foreign exchange on our investment in the Virgin Hotels Las Vegas. In addition, the Trust recognized reduced income contribution from scheduled repayments on the lending portfolio and an increase in general and administrative expenses. Refer to the Trust's individual segment discussion described below for further details. Due to the composition of the Trust's portfolio, we expect fluctuations in earnings period to period until our development pipeline is further built out. For details on project occupancies and development timelines, refer to Section 1.4 "Summary of Portfolio Assets" and Section 10.1 "Summary of Impact Investments" of the Management's Discussion and Analysis ("MD&A") for the three months ended March 31, 2021. As at March 31, 2021, the Trust had $91.9 million of cash-on-hand. The Trust's debt-to-asset value(1) as at March 31, 2021 was 16.1%, an increase relative to 13.6% as of December 31, 2020, driven by financing obtained in relation to income properties acquired in the period. The Trust's debt-to-total asset value, inclusive of project-level debt(1) and assets within our development segment, including equity accounted investments, was 41.5% compared to 38.5% as at December 31, 2020. Subsequent to quarter-end, the Trust amended the collateral base of its credit facility, providing an incremental $50 million in liquidity upon close. The facility proceeds will be used to acquire income properties which meet our impact criteria, and which will further contribute to the Trust's sources of recurring income. RESULTS HIGHLIGHTS BY SEGMENT Development In the first quarter, the development segment generated a net loss of $4.7 million, compared to net income of $4.1 million in the prior year. The net loss in the period was driven by a fair value write-down of $6.3 million on the Trust's investment in the Empire Lakeshore project due to a change in profit assumptions on unsold inventory. The fair value write-down was partially offset by fair value gains on commercial development blocks at Zibi, as a result of milestones achieved in the period. Included in the comparative period was a foreign exchange gain of $4.4 million related to the Trust's investment in the Virgin Hotels Las Vegas. The Empire Lakeshore project is a non-core legacy asset inherited by the Trust in 2014 and developed by a third-party. To date, proceeds of $45.5 million have been received from the project, inclusive of the Trust's capital. We anticipate the timing for the remaining profit distributions from this project to be over the next 15 months. In the three months ended March 31, 2021, the Trust contributed $3.6 million to its developments, primarily related to the West Don Lands and Zibi, which includes District Thermal, our net zero carbon heating-cooling system for the Zibi community. We anticipate further capital investments in the range of $70 million to $80 million for our development projects over the next two years. In the first quarter, the newly converted and renovated Virgin Hotels Las Vegas reopened to the public after a year of renovations. The hotel, which has more than 1,500 rooms, a 60,000 square foot ("sf") casino, a 4,500-seat concert hall, restaurants and other state-of-the-art amenities, had a successful opening weekend, exceeding expectations for occupancy considering in-place COVID-19 capacity restrictions. The Trust has a 10% interest in the hotel and has invested $52.8 million to date. Subsequent to March 31, 2021, the Federation of Canadian Municipalities ("FCM") announced a $23 million financing initiative through FCM's Green Municipal Fund for the build-out of District Thermal. The District Thermal Energy System, created in partnership with Hydro Ottawa, utilizes post-industrial waste energy for heating and the Ottawa River for cooling, to recycle greenhouse gas ("GHG") emissions for the entire 34-acre Zibi development, making the community one of the largest and most sustainable in Canada. Subsequent to March 31, 2021, we achieved first tenant occupancy at Block 2-3 at Zibi. By the end of 2021, an aggregate of 240,000 sf of commercial GLA will transfer from our development segment to our recurring income segment, with an additional 35,500 sf of commercial GLA and 162 residential rental units coming online in 2022 (at 100% project level). With the Trust's extensive development pipeline we will continue to grow our recurring income segment through construction execution, in addition to seeking new potential investment opportunities. On April 7, 2021, the Trust obtained zoning settlement approval from the City of Toronto council for its 5.3-acre Lakeshore East development. The site, which was approved for density of 1.25 million sf, is located in close proximity to the Canary and Distillery Districts, and immediately adjacent to Waterfront Toronto's Quayside property (former Sidewalk Labs site). The Trust's NAV as of December 31, 2020 was based on $178/sf at a density of approximately 1 million sf. As a result of the settlement approval, the value of the development is expected to increase due to the additional density. The Trust has a 37.5% interest in the development. Recurring Income In the three months ended March 31, 2020, the recurring income segment generated a net loss of $0.2 million compared to net income of $2.7 million in the prior year, primarily as a result of reduced income contribution from scheduled loan repayments and fair value adjustments related to transaction costs on acquired income properties in the current period. In the first quarter, the Trust acquired two income properties, 76 Stafford and 68-70 Claremont, located in downtown Toronto, for total consideration of $33.6 million, including transaction costs. The assets were acquired through cash-on-hand and mortgages payable with a weighted average term of five years. The Trust received favourable financing terms for both assets as the properties have significant impact potential and are aligned with the Trust's environmental sustainability and resilience and inclusive communities verticals. Over the next 12 months, the Trust will undertake certain capital expenditures to better align the properties with its verticals, including waste diversion, reduction of GHG emissions and energy usage, and increased accessibility, in line with the Trust's overall impact strategy. The Trust currently has a growing recurring income portfolio, which includes over 1 million sf of commercial space as at March 31, 2021 (at 100% project-level). The Trust expects to continue to grow this segment by deploying capital to further acquire income properties that are in line with its impact strategy, in addition to completing the Trust's build-to-hold assets from its development pipeline. Refer to Section 2.2, "Recurring Income" of our Q1 2021 MD&A for further details on build-to-hold assets that will contribute to the Trust's recurring income over the next five years. Other(2) In the first quarter, the Other segment generated a net loss of $1.3 million compared to $1.6 million in the prior year. Segment results were not directly comparable to the prior year due to changes within deferred unit compensation and asset management fee expenses, offset by the Trust's income tax expense (recovery) position in each period. Changes in deferred unit compensation expense are driven by fluctuations in the Trust's unit price. The increase in asset management fees relative to prior year was driven by the settlement of fees in cash versus units. As of December 31, 2020, the Trust's arrangement with Dream Asset Management Corporation ("DAM") to satisfy management fees payable in units, converted at Net Asset Value ("NAV")(1) and recorded for accounting purposes based on the trading price on the date of settlement, expired. Since then, the Trust and Dream have agreed to extend the agreement for an additional three-year period, subject to unitholder approval at the upcoming annual general meeting on June 7, 2021. Accordingly, the asset management fees for the first quarter were recorded without the above trading price discount, as unitholder approval for the fee settlement extension has not yet been obtained. However, management expects that once approved, there will be a recovery in the asset management fee expense in June 2021. Unit Buyback Activity From the inception of the Trust's unit buyback program in December 2014 to May 3, 2021, the Trust has repurchased 14.4 million units for cancellation, for a total cost of $89.5 million. As at May 3, 2021, the Trust's asset manager, DAM, owns 17.1 million units of the Trust, inclusive of 1.3 million units acquired under the Trust's distribution reinvestment plan, 2.0 million units acquired in settlement of the asset management fee and the remainder acquired on the open market for DAM's own account. In aggregate, DAM owns 26.4% of the Trust as at May 3, 2021. Cash Generated from Operating Activities - Continuing Operations Cash generated from operating activities in the three months ended March 31, 2021 was $6.0 million compared with $0.4 million in the prior year period. The increase of $5.6 million was primarily due to a return on investment from the Trust's Empire Lakeshore investment and fluctuations in non-cash working capital. The table below provides a summary of the Trust's portfolio as at March 31, 2021: As at March 31, 2021 December 31, 2020 Development $ 273,378 $ 276,725 Recurring income 179,389 169,040 Other(2) 74,821 94,112 Total debt payable 105,348 88,392 Total assets 652,632 648,514 Cash 91,858 110,671 Footnotes (1) For the Trust's definition of the following non-IFRS measures: debt-to-asset value, debt-to-total asset value inclusive of project-level debt, net income (loss) per unit, and NAV, please refer to the cautionary statements under the heading "Non-IFRS Measures" in this press release and the Non-IFRS Measures and Other Disclosures section of the Trust's MD&A. (2) Includes other Trust amounts not specifically related to the segments. Conference Call Senior management from the Dream group of companies, will host a virtual investor session on May 18, 2021 at 10:30 am (ET) to provide an overview of our impact investing and ESG initiatives, with special guest, Richard Florida, Vice-Chair, Impact, one of the world's leading urbanists. In addition, Dream will feature a virtual fireside chat with Jay-Ann Gilfoy, CEO of Vancity Community Investment Bank (VCIB), Canada's first values-driven bank, to discuss the power and purpose of using capital for impact. To register for the event, please click on this link, insert your registration details and a Webex log-in link will be emailed to you. A taped replay of the virtual conference will be available for 90 days on the Dream website under the Calendar of Events. Please contact klefever@dream.ca with any questions. About Dream Impact Dream Impact is an open-ended trust dedicated to impact investing. Impact investing is the intention of creating measurable positive, social and environmental change in our communities and for our stakeholders, while generating attractive market returns. Dream Impact's underlying portfolio is comprised of exceptional real estate assets reported under two operating segments: development and recurring income, that would not be otherwise available in a public and fully transparent vehicle, managed by an experienced team with a successful track record in these areas. The objectives of the Trust are to create positive and lasting impacts for our stakeholders through our three impact verticals: environmental sustainability and resilience, attainable and affordable housing, and inclusive communities; balance growth and stability of the portfolio, increasing cash flow, unitholders' equity and NAV(1) over time; leverage access to an experienced management team and strong partnerships in order to generate attractive returns for investors; provide investors with a portfolio of high-quality real estate development opportunities, concentrated in core geographic markets; and to provide predictable cash distributions to unitholders on a tax-efficient basis. For more information, please visit: www.dreamimpacttrust.ca. Non-IFRS Measures The Trust's condensed consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS"). In this press release, as a complement to results provided in accordance with IFRS, the Trust discloses and discusses certain non-IFRS financial measures, including debt-to-asset value, debt-to-total asset value inclusive of project-level debt, net income (loss) per unit and NAV, as well as other measures discussed elsewhere in this release. These non-IFRS measures are not defined by IFRS, do not have a standardized meaning and may not be comparable with similar measures presented by other issuers. The Trust has presented such non-IFRS measures as management believes they are relevant measures of our underlying operating performance and debt management. Non-IFRS measures should not be considered as alternatives to unitholders' equity, net income, total comprehensive income or cash flows generated from operating activities (continuing), or comparable metrics determined in accordance with IFRS as indicators of the Trust's performance, liquidity, cash flow and profitability. For a full description of these measures and, where applicable, a reconciliation to the most directly comparable measure calculated in accordance with IFRS, please refer to the "Non-IFRS Measures and Other Disclosures" section in the Trust's MD&A for the three months ended March 31, 2021. Forward-Looking Information This press release may contain forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities legislation, including statements relating to the Trust's objectives and strategies to achieve those objectives, our beliefs, plans, estimates, projections and intentions, and similar statements concerning anticipated future events, future growth and drivers thereof, results of operations, performance, business prospects and opportunities, market conditions, acquisitions or divestitures, leasing transactions, future maintenance and development plans and costs, capital investments, financing, the availability of financing sources, income taxes, litigation and the real estate and lending industries in general, in each case, that are not historical facts; as well as statements regarding: the Trust's focus on impact investing and expectations for formalizing its approach to impact management over the next year; the Trust's impact benchmarking strategy and its ability to achieve its impact and sustainability goals; the Trust's ability to become a leader in impact investing; the Trust's plans and proposals for current and future development projects, including projected sizes, densities, uses, costs, timing for expected zoning approvals, development milestones and their expected sustainability impact; development timelines, including commencement of construction and/or revitalization of our development projects and completion and occupancy dates, including plans for 76 Stafford and 68-70 Claremont; anticipated returns from our development projects and the timing thereof, including expected returns from the Empire Lakeshore development; the Trust's growth prospects; the Trust's ability to generate attractive returns for unitholders; the Trust's expectations to amend its credit facility to revise the collateral base and generate an additional $50 million in immediate liquidity for the Trust and the Trust's expectation to deploy such liquidity to acquire income properties meeting its impact criteria; expectations for the Trust's development segment to generate returns and the timing thereof; the Trust's expectations to make further capital investments in the range of $70 million to $80 million to development projects over the next two years; anticipated effect of our developments on returns, earnings, profits and future cash flows as milestones are achieved; the extension of our agreement with our asset manager to settle fees in units; and the anticipated growth in our recurring income segment and its effect on the Trust's operating cash flows and distributions. Forward-looking information is based on a number of assumptions and is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Trust's control, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those that are disclosed in or implied by such forward-looking information. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: adverse changes in general economic and market conditions; the impact of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic on the Trust; changes to the regulatory environment; environmental risks; local real estate conditions, including the development of properties in close proximity to the Trust's properties and changes in real estate values; timely leasing of vacant space and re-leasing of occupied space upon expiration; dependence on tenants' and borrowers' financial condition; the uncertainties of acquisition activity; the ability to effectively integrate acquisitions; dependence on our partners in the development, construction and operation of our real estate projects; uncertainty surrounding the development and construction of new projects and delays and cost overruns in the design, development, construction and operation of projects; our ability to execute on our strategic plans and meet financial obligations; interest and mortgage rates and regulations; inflation; availability of equity and debt financing and foreign exchange fluctuations. All forward-looking information in this press release speaks as of May 3, 2021. The Trust does not undertake to update any such forward-looking information whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. Additional information about these assumptions and risks and uncertainties is disclosed in filings with securities regulators filed on SEDAR (www.sedar.com). These filings are also available at the Trust's website at www.dreamimpacttrust.ca. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210503005784/en/

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As the SPAC Landscape Shifts, Manhattan Street Capital Launches SPAC Finder Matchmaker to Enable Funded SPACs To Easily Find Suitable Acquisitions

In a move to enable SPACs (Special Interest Acquisition Companies), Manhattan Street Capital, Inc. (www.manhattanstreetcapital.com) has launched the SPAC Finder MatchMaker Forum, making it easy for funded SPACs to find attractive targets to acquire and for acquisition prospects to identify and approach suitable funded SPACs.

This efficiency is especially important in the current market, as new SEC (News - Alert) guidance that reinterprets the accounting for Warrants has brought the landslide of new deals in Q1 to a near standstill in Q2 2021. The search functionality in the SPAC Finder Matchmaker can help to rectify this situation by enabling SPACs to identify and engage attractive targets that are best suited to the SEC's new warrant approach.

Manhattan Street Capital is the premier online fundraising platform that helps companies IPO and raise capital using Regulation A+ and Reg D, Regulation S, NFT or Blockchain offerings and Rule 144A offerings.







"With the SPAC MatchMaker, participants can now avoid the surprisingly inefficient online search process of today's Internet for this specific purpose," said Rod Turner, Manhattan Street Capital chairman and CEO. "We have built an efficient system for quickly and easily finding the optimum counter party for SPACs."

"In short, we're enabling the backlog of Funded, post IPO SPACS to reach their fullest potential during a newly challenging context, before their two-year investor refund deadline hits," Turner adds.

Company members of Manhattan Street Capital have resoundingly applauded the new forum, which is available now.

Turner invites SPACs and Prospects to check in frequently as interest and participation is growing rapidly.

Manhattan Street's founder and CEO Rod Turner is an expert on Regulation A+, IPOs and M&A.

About Manhattan Street Capital, Inc.

Manhattan Street Capital, Inc., (www.manhattanstreetcapital.com) in San Diego, Calif., is the #1 growth capital service for the best midstage companies, building on the RegA+ SEC rules that allow main street investors worldwide seeking higher returns to make an impact by investing growth capital in high-performing companies.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210503005786/en/
[May 03, 2021] Endeavor Bank Announces 2021 First Quarter Financial Results

As of March 31, 2021, the Bank's total assets equaled almost $512 million, reflecting growth from December 31, 2020 of nearly $122 million, or 31%. Total deposits equaled almost $278 million at the end of the first quarter, reflecting growth of $31 million or 13% from year end 2020, and total loans equaled $386 million at March 31, 2021, reflecting growth of $104 million or 37% during the quarter. The Bank continued to originate Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans throughout the first quarter of 2021, adding over 650 PPP loans totaling over $115 million. At March 31, 2021, total PPP loan balances equaled $200 million. Net income after tax for the quarter totaled $294 thousand and continued to be positively impacted by the recognition of PPP fee income.







March 31, 2021 Financial Results ($000) March 31, 2021 December 31, 2020 Total Assets $511,649 $390,030 Total Loans $386,148 $281,779 Total Deposits $277,698 $246,478 Total Equity $27,948 $26,843 Net Income After Tax (Quarter Ended) $294 $1,151

The 2021 first quarter net profit is after non-recurring expenses for the issuance of stock options and restricted stock, which include expenses for options issued to certain Bank organizers in consideration for their early investment, which provided organizing seed money before the Bank was formed. The forty-six organizers who received a total of 131,250 stock options, resulting in expense of $425,144 in the first quarter, include local business leaders, current Board members and executives. The number of stock options each such organizer received was based on a formula determined by the amount of seed money invested. Additional equity compensation granted in the first quarter included 139,287 stock options granted to current non-management Board members, with a total cost of $452,224, $365,747 of which was recognized in the first quarter, and 14,829 restricted stock awards granted to certain bank executives and key performers, with a total cost of $139,393, $5,529 of which was recognized in the first quarter. For the full detailed financial statements covering the Bank's operating results, please refer to the call report filed with the FDIC at https://www7.fdic.gov/idasp/advSearchLanding.asp (enter Endeavor Bank name and click search). President Steve Sefton commented, "We are proud to honor the intention we expressed to the organizers before the Bank formed by issuing their organizer stock options. Our organizers funded the seed money to start the Bank before we even had a business plan. At that time, they were investing only in our vision. More than three years later, we are proud to be able to carry out our intent." Dan Yates, CEO, said, "We are hopeful that the worst of the pandemic is behind us as the first quarter of 2021 continues our fourth consecutive quarter of profitability. The key to consistent profitable operations has been credit quality and PPP fee income. Endeavor's strong credit culture and avoidance of COVID-19 impacted industry segments, as well as our consultative business model, which requires a close relationship with our clients, has been key to maintaining credit quality in terms of past due loans, charge offs, and other measurements of loan quality." Sefton added, "The Endeavor team has generated over 1,500 PPP loans totaling approximately $290 million since the program began through the first quarter of 2021. The program expanded our balance sheet with PPP loans and related deposits during the program's tenure, which has been extended by Congress through May 31, 2021. As the program winds down over the balance of 2021 and beyond, we anticipate the balance sheet will contract as PPP loans are forgiven or repaid. So far, approximately half of the PPP loans Endeavor originated in 2020 have already been forgiven." Yates further stated, "As the Bank continues to grow, our Board is also proposing to expand its size to oversee an expanding and more complex Bank. Vickie E. Turner has been nominated as a new Board member whose election will be proffered at the annual meeting on June 2, 2021. Shareholders are encouraged to attend the annual meeting virtually as a COVID-19 precaution. Instructions to attend and vote will be included with the proxy materials provided to all shareholders of record." About Endeavor Bank Endeavor Bank is primarily owned and operated by San Diegans for San Diego businesses and their owners. The bank's focus is local: local decision-making, local board, local founders, local owners, and relationships with local clients in the San Diego metropolitan marketplace and its surrounding areas. Headquartered in downtown San Diego in the landmark Symphony Towers building, the Bank also operates a loan production and executive administration office in Carlsbad. Endeavor Bank provides traditional business banking services across a broad spectrum of industries and specialties. Unique to the bank is its consultative banking approach that partners business clients with Endeavor Bank's senior management. Together, we build strategies and provide resources that solve problems, plan for the future, and help clients' efforts to grow revenues and profits. Visit www.bankendeavor.com for more information. Forward-Looking Statements This press release includes "forward-looking statements," as such term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are based on the current beliefs of the Bank's directors and executive officers (collectively, "Management"), as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to the Bank's Management. All statements regarding the Bank's business strategy and plans and objectives of Management of the Bank for future operations, are forward-looking statements. When used in this press release, the words "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "expect" and "intend" and words or phrases of similar meaning, as they relate to the Bank or the Bank's Management, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Although the Bank believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Bank's expectations ("cautionary statements") are the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and related government actions on the Bank and its customers, loan losses, changes in interest rates, loss of key personnel, lower lending limits and capital than competitors, regulatory restrictions and oversight of the Bank, the secure and effective implementation of technology, risks related to the local and national economy, the Bank's implementation of its business plans and management of growth, loan performance, interest rates, and regulatory matters, the effects of trade, monetary and fiscal policies, inflation, and changes in accounting policies and practices. Based upon changing conditions, if any one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or if any underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described as anticipated, believed, estimated, expected, or intended. The Bank does not intend to update these forward-looking statements. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210503005788/en/

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Company will create 265 jobs in Knox County

Company operates call centers for over 300 financial institutions

KNOXVILLE, Tenn.  Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee and Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner Bob Rolfe announced today that Lending Solutions, Inc. (LSI) will establish new operations in Knoxville.

LSI will invest $2 million and create 265 new jobs to open a call center which will operate primarily as a training center for new employees. Once trained, the new employees will be approved to work from home.

LSI was founded in 1994 and is a provider of lending center services and consulting programs for financial institutions across North America. LSI provides 24-hour lending and member services to over 300 of North Americas premier credit unions, banks and mortgage companies.

Over the last five years, TNECD has supported 12 economic development projects in Knox County, accounting for more than 1,300 job commitments and $175 million in capital investment.

QUOTES

Were grateful that LSI has chosen Tennessee for this project and has committed to create 265 new jobs in Knox County. I congratulate the company on its success and look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on the financial industry.  Gov. Bill Lee

LSI is one of the nations industry leader in financial service outsourcing, and we are proud to welcome the company to Tennessee. These jobs will add momentum to the already robust business services industry in Knoxville, and we are confident that LSI will find success in East Tennessee.  TNECD Commissioner Bob Rolfe

We are so excited to be coming to Knoxville. The opening of this office represents a lot of work by a lot of people, both at LSI and here in Knoxville. This training center represents the future of LSI as a gateway for many Americans in todays new skill-based economy. Through our ACADEMY employees are paid to learn the skills they need to be the best at what they do in the financial services industry. What we do at LSI is simple, but it is hard. Our secret is that we look for people who believe in themselves  that is who we want to invest in.  Mark Johnson, LSI founder and majority owner

Our people are the most important asset we have. At LSI, we are passionate about helping people. There are no sidelines. We all contribute to our future success. Everyone at LSI is very excited about our continued growth and adding the community of Knoxville as one of the places where we live and work.  Jeff Stewart, LSI president and CEO

TVA and Knoxville Utilities Board congratulate LSI on its decision to locate in Knoxville. Helping to attract and retain quality job opportunities is fundamental to TVAs mission of service and we are proud to partner with the Knoxville Chamber, City of Knoxville and Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development to help further that mission and celebrate this announcement.  John Bradley, TVA senior vice president of Economic Development

We are pleased that LSI is locating operations in Knoxville. We have a strong talent pipeline, friendly business climate and exceptional quality of life that is a great fit for this growing company. We are greatly appreciative of their commitment and investment and look forward to their long-range success. I also appreciate all the hard work done by Governor Lee, Commissioner Rolfe and our local leaders in bringing these jobs home.  Sen. Becky Duncan Massey (R-Knoxville)

I am very excited to welcome LSI to Knoxville. Their mission statement, which stresses leveraging technology in order to enable conversations, exemplifies the type of vision we need to bring to the area, in addition to the estimated 265 jobs. My thanks to our local leadership and to ECD for their role in making this happen.  Rep. Gloria Johnson (D-Knoxville)

TNECD Media Contact

Molly Hair, Public Information Officer

(615) 878-0063

molly.hair@tn.gov

ABOUT LSI

Headquartered in Elgin, IL - LSI believes in helping people. Founded in 1994, LSI created a new way to leverage technology in order for financial service companies to Connect People with People. They believed then, as they still do today, that engaging conversations nurture loyalty. This foundation drives LSIs passion to deliver flexible solutions and Remarkable Service for their clients. LSI currently has over 300 credit union clients and offices in Elgin, IL, Naperville, IL, Albuquerque, NM, and now Knoxville, TN. With over 900 employees, LSI offers individuals a career path in the financial services industry, providing great benefits including paid training through the LSI ACADEMY, health insurance and 401(k). To learn more about careers at LSI, visit www.MyLSIcareers.com.

About the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development

The Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Developments mission is to develop strategies that help make Tennessee the No. 1 location in the Southeast for high quality jobs. To grow and strengthen Tennessee, the department seeks to attract new corporate investment to the state and works with Tennessee companies to facilitate expansion and economic growth. Find us on the web: tnecd.com. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram: @tnecd. Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/tnecd.

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NASHVILLE, Tenn.  After nearly 47 years of service in the Tennessee National Guard, Col. James Doc Cooper, from Murfreesboro, retired on May 1.

Cooper, who was the flight surgeon for the Nashville based 1-230th Assault Helicopter Battalion, began his military career enlisting in Bolivars Company C, 117th Infantry Regiment, as an infantryman in 1971. While enlisted, he earned the rank of sergeant and cross-trained to fire 81mm mortars.

I came from a large military family and grew up in the shadow of the Vietnam War, said Cooper. When I turned 18, I felt called to serve my county and do my part.

By 1980, Cooper found a new calling to help people and his fellow Soldiers. After taking a three-year break from the National Guard to study medicine, he certified as a respiratory therapist and earned his commission in 1983 as a Medical Service Officer in Henderson. He then devoted the rest of his military career caring for service members.

When I began studying medicine, I knew that I wanted to use those skills in the Guard, said Cooper. Over my career Ive been inspired and influenced by the Soldiers I worked with. Being able to serve them and watch these young men and women become strong leaders and aviators has been a great honor.

For the next 38 years, he served in numerous medical positions throughout the state and in different roles such as an anesthesiologist, field surgeon, and flight surgeon.

After September 11, 2001, Cooper deployed overseas four times. In 2004, he served in Kosovo for Operation Joint Guardian with the 278th Armored Cavalry Regiment and then deployed to Afghanistan from 2006-2007 as a flight surgeon. In 2009, he served in Iraq for one year with the 1-230th Air Cavalry Squadron based out of Talifar and Mosul. Cooper returned to Kosovo in 2018 with the 1-230th as their flight surgeon and continued to ensure the health and safety of all pilots and aircrew. He also participated in multiple medical humanitarian missions.

Doc Cooper has been a key part of our organization for nearly 50 years, said Col. Jay Deason, Tennessees State Aviation Officer. He is irreplaceable. Nobody has a deeper understanding of Tennessees aviation community than him.

Throughout his career, Cooper earned numerous recognitions and awards to include the Bronze Star, Legion of Merit, four Meritorious Service Medals, and six Army Commendation Medals. He is the first Tennessean awarded the Aeromedical Order of Merit, which is awarded to individuals who have selflessly contributed to the advancement, growth, or maintenance of U.S. Army Aviation Medicine. He also earned a medal for the Order of Military Medical Merit.

The Tennessee National Guard held a retirement ceremony in honor of Cooper at Nashvilles Berry Field on May 1.
The Internets economy comes with risks, here's a glimpse at mobile tech providing locals better access to suburban neighborhoods and subsequent gunplay.

Read more . . .

OVERLAND PARK, KS (KCTV) -- Police are investigating after gunfire broke out at an Airbnb hosting a party in south Overland Park. Officers responded over the weekend on the sound of shots fired in the area of 153 Road and Lamar Avenue. Dispatchers were also advised from other callers that vehicles and people were fleeing the area.
There's nothing funny about the horrific misdeeds committed by a local dude. But joking about the misfortune and future jail time for a creeper convicted of hurting youngsters might not be so much of a sin.

From the courthouse . . .



Jackson County jury convicts 51-year-old KC man of 13 sex counts involving childrenMay 2, 2021



A Jackson County jury on Friday convicted 51-year-old Jesus Torres, of Kansas City, on 13 counts of sex charges, including sodomy, involving children seven to 13 years old at the time, Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker announced today.



The jury, following trial, convicted Jesus Torres, dob: 11/14/1969, of three counts of Statutory Sodomy 1st Degree, five counts of Child Molestation, Attempted Statutory Sodomy 1st Degree, Sexual Misconduct Involving A Child, Furnishing Pornographic Material to a Minor and two counts of Possession of Child Pornography.*



Torres will be sentenced by a Jackson County judge at a future hearing. The defendant is being held on no-bond until his sentencing.



According to court records, the victims in this case first told police about being sexually assaulted in October 2016. Four children eventually disclosed being sexually assaulted by the defendant. The Child Protection Center conducted forensic interviews of the children, the youngest being seven and the oldest 13 at the time of their disclosures. Independence police detectives submitted the case to prosecutors in 2017.

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Developing . . .


The classic hotness of angel Candice inspires our Sunday overnight glimpse at community news, pop culture and top headlines.



Kansas City Nurses Assist Miracle From Above

3 North Kansas City nurses help deliver baby on plane above Pacific Ocean KANSAS CITY, MO (KCTV) --- Three nurses from North Kansas City Hospital helped delivered a baby on a plane that was heading to Hawaii. Lavinia Mounga unexpectedly delivered baby Raymond on a Delta Airlines flight from Utah to Honolulu late last week.

Faith Community Mourns

Kansas City Muslim community mourns loss of 2 teenagers to gun violence A community is shocked and saddened as they mourn the loss of two teenagers killed on Friday night. 16-year-old Abdulwahid Abdulaziz and 15-year-old Abdirahman Abdulaziz both brothers, were shot at 8th and Olive Friday night as they were leaving Ramadan service around 11:30p.m.

Prairie Village Murder Postscript

Neighbors find man shot dead inside Prairie Village apartment, police announce arrest PRAIRIE VILLAGE, Kan. - Prairie Village police and crime scene technicians were back at the home on Sunday, where John Hoffman was found dead by neighbors the night before. Neighbors told 41 Action News that Hoffman lived there for about a year.

Panties Always In Play

Victoria's Secret owner wants to sell the lingerie brand in a deal worth $2 billion or more - double what it previously asked for L Brands has reportedly restarted talks to sell Victoria's Secret at a higher price than before. According to Bloomberg, it wants a deal that could value Victoria's Secret at $2 billion or more. In May 2020, a private-equity firm pulled out of buying a 55% stake in the brand for $525 million.

Culture War Confronts Republicans After Prez Trump

GOP wrestles with role of culture wars in party's future While some in the GOP are eager to double down on Trump's brand of populism, others argue the party needs to return to its roots.

In Defense Of Rudy

Alan Dershowitz slams FBI raid on Rudy Giuliani's apartment Alan Dershowitz has agreed to defend Rudy Giuliani as he's investigated over his Ukraine dealings - slamming the US as a "banana republic" for sending the FBI to raid his new client's Manhattan home.

STONKS STAY WINNING!!!

Americans Can't Get Enough of the Stock Market Americans are all in on the stock market. Individual investors are holding more stocks than ever before as major indexes climb to fresh highs. They are also upping the ante by borrowing to magnify their bets or increasingly buying on small dips in the market. Stockholdings among U.S.

El Papa Demands Reform

Pope Francis Issues Orders Aimed At Cracking Down On Vatican Corruption Pope Francis is taking additional steps to crack down on corruption at the Vatican by decreeing that all bishops and cardinals be tried if they are suspected of criminal behavior. This marks the second time in two days that the pope has worked to hold top church officials accountable for their actions.

Crypto Caution

Charlie Munger calls bitcoin 'disgusting and contrary to the interests of civilization' Berkshire Hathaway Vice Chairman Charlie Munger's disdain toward bitcoin has only intensified amid the digital asset's record run this year. "Of course I hate the bitcoin success," the 97-year-old Munger said during a Q&A session at Berkshire's annual shareholder meeting Saturday.

Show-Me Life Lesson Opt Out

Survey: Pandemic proved too much for some Missouri teachers SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (AP) - One in 10 Missouri teachers are thinking about calling it quits after a challenging year of pandemic education, a recent survey found. Researchers with Missouri State University's College of Education sent out the survey to each of the 67,000 public school educators with an email on file with the state and 8,040 responded in mid-February.

Search For Justice Contd

'I have nightmares': Family still hoping for tips after Independence woman found murdered INDEPENDENCE, Mo. - It's been over two months since Alesha Reade's body was found dismembered in rural Clay County near JJ Highway, leading to a homicide investigation. But her family is still hoping to find new leads in the case.

Forecast To Start The Week

Your Storm Track 5 Daily Forecast Our active weather pattern will continue as we kickoff another week. Scattered showers and a few storms will arrive by daybreak for some Monday, while another round of rain will develop mainly in the southern half of our viewing area before Monday comes to an end.

And this is the OPEN THREAD for Sunday night. Hopefully, we'll have more for the morning update . . . STAY TUNED!!!
A thoughtful reader recently sent us this note that deserves to be highlighted as the pandemic has spiked the local homeless population.

KCMO hasn't had much luck coping with real world dilemmas and political minefields surrounding the homeless issue.

And so . . .



Drawing from conservative news sources and what is ultimately a compassionate perspective, here's an alternative view of a worsening problem confronting KCMO . . .



Homeless Problem

There was a time in the past when a homeless person, around Thanksgiving when it started to get cold, would look for a police officer to punch in the face. Arrested for assault, he would plead guilty in municipal court and get a 90 day sentence at the municipal farm. That would get him a warm bed and three meals a day until spring arrived. Now the municipal farm is gone and the homeless problem is far more complicated, largely because the ACLU for decades has effectively reduced mental treatment facilities because the ill have "rights" to be free.



Homelessness is not just having no place to sleep. It is people with mental illness or drug use or both who cannot function effectively in life. The chaotic transfer of homeless people between motels this week by the city effectively illustrates this. The average drug user spends $1500 to $2000 a month on meth or heroin. With no job or income that means an increase in larceny, burglary and auto theft.



Kansas City does not yet have the severe problems of San Francisco. But a look at the problem there can present solutions to the problem here . . .



Real Clear Politics: Blighted San Francisco Diagnoses Its 'Perilous Trifecta' -- and Bungles the Cure

You decide . . .


@IsaacAvilucea on Twitter

Isaac Avilucea is The Trentonians main municipal scribe. A two-time prior restraint winner and testicular cancer survivor, he relishes his reputation as the "Mean Girls" reporter that followed his 18-day stay at the now-defunct North Adams Transcript.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 20:42:33|Editor: huaxia

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SHANGHAI, MAY 3 (Xinhua) -- An auto show in Shanghai shed light on the industry's urge to jump onto the green-tech bandwagon, as China, which is already the world's No.1 new-energy vehicles (NEV) market, pushes for clean-energy use in its auto sector.

During the fair, Volkswagen's China JV SAIC Volkswagen debuted a pure-electric SUV "ID.6 X," the second model produced by its new NEV plant in China. The Shanghai-based plant started mass production late last year and is expected to launch another electric model this year.

"SAIC Volkswagen will launch a variety of new-generation pure-electric vehicles in the future, which will help the Chinese market accelerate the realization of the carbon-neutral goal," said Yang Siyao, Executive Director of VW Marketing & Sales Business, SAIC Volkswagen Automotive Co., Ltd.

Sales of NEV in China jumped by 2.8 times year on year to 515,000 units in the first quarter, data from the CAAM showed. In March alone, NEV sales surged 2.4 times year on year to reach 226,000 units.

The better-than-expected NEV sales came amid government efforts to promote eco-friendly cars and rising market enthusiasm for them. In November last year, China unveiled a development plan for its NEV industry from 2021 to 2035 that aims to accelerate the country's transition into an automotive powerhouse.

The proportion of new NEVs in the sales of new vehicles is expected to rise to 20 percent by 2025, and vehicles used in public transportation will be completely electrified by 2035, according to the plan.

Produced by Xinhua Global Service
Irwin Stoolmacher is president of the Stoolmacher Consulting Group, a fundraising and strategic planning firm that works with nonprofit agencies that serve the truly needy among us.
Through the opening of an LED ring light, Lavona Smith (left) and Dave Jurcic pop the cork on a bottle of champagne to celebrate the opening of their new venture L&D Academy in Geistown Borough on Sunday, May 2, 2021.
James Edward Smith (left) and Damian Michael Staniszewski are shown in these undated file photos. Pennsylvania State Police announced on Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2017, that the bodies of Smith and Staniszewski had been identified as those found by hunters on Sept. 29 in Conemaugh Township, Somerset County. The men had gone missing in March.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 21:46:38|Editor: huaxia

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People pass by a shopwindow in Vienna, Austria, May 3, 2021. Retailers and service providers were allowed to reopen under certain conditions in Vienna on Monday. (Xinhua/Guo Chen)
Terre Haute, IN (47803)

Today

Showers this morning then scattered thunderstorms developing during the afternoon hours. High 82F. Winds E at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%..

Tonight

Chance of a shower or two during the evening, followed by partly cloudy skies overnight. Low 68F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 30%.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 21:12:23|Editor: huaxia

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A tourist (C) poses for a group photo with performers at the Italian Style Area in Hebei District of north China's Tianjin, May 1, 2021. (Xinhua/Sun Fanyue)

The news media have linked the travel boom to China's success in containing the spread of COVID-19 and its ongoing mass vaccination campaign.

BEIJING, May 3 (Xinhua) -- The May Day travel rush in China signals the nation's stepped-up recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, with people thronging at railway stations, airports and tourist sites, criss-crossing provinces.

Passenger trips on Chinese railways hit a new single-day high on Saturday, with nearly 18.83 million trips recorded, according to data released by the China State Railway Group Co., Ltd. The figure marks a 9.2-percent increase from the 2019 level, the first day of the International Workers' Day holiday, which runs through Wednesday.

The news media have linked the travel boom to China's success in containing the spread of COVID-19 and its ongoing mass vaccination campaign.

Tourists enjoy fresh air at a tourist attraction in Wulingyuan District of Zhangjiajie, central China's Hunan Province, May 1, 2021. (Photo by Wu Yongbing/Xinhua)

TRAVEL FRENZY

In mid-April, Chinese travel services provider Trip.com published forecast data for the May Day holiday, showing that bookings through the service provider have seen significant increases across many business areas compared with pre-pandemic levels.

As of April 14, holiday flight bookings had been 23 percent higher than the same period in 2019, with hotel bookings up 43 percent, attraction tickets up 114 percent, and car rentals up 126 percent, according to data from Trip.com.

"The effective control of the pandemic and authorities' supportive attitude are expected to unleash travellers' enthusiasm," the South China Morning Post (SCMP) quoted Trip.com research analyst Fang Zexi, as saying.

"We forecast an explosive surge in tourism demand from last year, and it could be even higher than 2019," Fang forecast prior to the holiday.

"Tickets for everything from domestic flights to theme parks are rapidly selling out in China ahead of its Labor Day holiday as the nation's recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic gathers pace," the Bloomberg News observed in a report last week.

"China's early success in tackling the pandemic has helped to underpin its economic rebound," it said, adding "its ability to contain sporadic outbreaks has given millions of people the confidence to stick to their domestic travel plans."

Tourists have fun riding a boat at the Changshou Lake scenic area in southwest China's Chongqing, on May 2, 2021. (Xinhua/Liu Chan)

HOLIDAY ECONOMY

Describing China's May Day holiday as "a shot in the arm for domestic tourism," the SCMP reported on Sunday that "the five-day break is set to be a fillip for local economies that have been hard hit by the health crisis."

As a "record-breaking wave of Chinese tourists" are hitting the road for a May Day trip, the travel frenzy is "giving China's economy a powerful short-term boost," Reuters said in a recent report.

That is "in stark contrast to the rest of the world where many countries are still struggling to bring the virus under control, let alone open up domestic or even international travel," the report added.

On Saturday, the Wuhan Strawberry Music Festival was staged in the central Chinese city of Wuhan, attracting thousands of people.

"It has not been easy to get to where we are today ... I feel very excited to be here," Reuters quoted Gao Yuchen, a 23-year-old Wuhan resident who attended the event, as saying.

The temporary rise in prices of tourism services and expected traffic congestion pushed many people to stay home for the holiday, although that doesn't mean they aren't spending.

The second "May 5" shopping festival kicked off in Shanghai on Saturday, with real-time consumer payout data from China UnionPay, Alipay and Tencent Pay -- all Chinese payment platforms -- showing that consumers forked out over 2.67 billion U.S. dollars in the first 24 hours.

According to China's State Post Bureau, the country's postal industry delivered over 260 million parcels on Saturday, up nearly 30 percent year-on-year, mirroring the positive momentum of China's economic recovery, particularly in consumption. 
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 21:15:17|Editor: huaxia

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Students of a primary school in Yiwu, east China's Zhejiang Province attend a science popularizing class on April 23, 2021. (Xinhua/Hua Hongli)

BEIJING, May 3 (Xinhua) -- For 11-year-old Li Jiaqi, a fourth-grader at the Huangyangmei primary school in the city of Yiwu, it is in a science popularizing class that she knew, for the first time, that fluorescence is a luminescence.

Scientists and volunteers from nearly 10 Shanghai-based research institutes of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) recently brought science classes to two primary schools in Yiwu, east China's Zhejiang Province.

Fang Yuewen, a sixth-grade student at the same primary school, has developed an interest in microbes. "It is amazing to learn more about microbes from the CAS scientists," she said.

In one of the science classes, two volunteers from the Institute Pasteur of Shanghai, under the CAS, introduced the species and reproduction methods of microbes using simple words. They guided the children to observe the microbes under microscopes.

Scientists from other research institutes also brought science classes to the children, covering fiber-optic communication, nuclear power, lasers, thermodynamics, acoustics, and drug development.

Zhu Fangyuan from the Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, introduced to the students how the Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility, a third-generation synchrotron radiation light source, solves problems in life and science.

"The children may have heard about the science device but did not know how it works," Zhu said, hoping to inspire the students' curiosity for science.

"Many children have a dream of becoming scientists when they grow up," said Wang Hong, principal of the Xinsilu primary school that participated in the activity, adding that this kind of activity would help children further explore science.

The purpose is to encourage children's enthusiasm for science in regions with relatively poor science education resources, said Zhang Wenjun with the Shanghai branch of the CAS.

This branch has held more than 20 science popularization activities in eight years in Chinese provinces, involving more than 20,000 students and teachers. 
We are booked from US to Athens via a layover in Amsterdam on May 29th. My friend was booked on same route for May 14th and she wrote the Consulate in Netherlands to confirm they could layover in Amsterdam to board for Athens. Her friend from America was just denied boarding in Latvia to Athens even with a letter from the State Department. This should have been sufficient. It's confusing. If you are not flying direct to Athens from US, you might not make it. I'm hoping we can figure this out.

The letter said, Dear Sir, Madam,

Thank you for your message. I understand you would like to know if you can travel via the Netherlands and what the requirements are.

The negative NAAT (PCR) test result is required because there is a risk that travellers arriving from high-risk areas will import and spread coronavirus variants. The mandatory test results are not a substitute for other coronavirus measures, such as the entry ban, self-quarantining and vaccination.

Secondly at this moment if you are travelling to a Schengen area country via the Netherlands you must be able to show you have permission to enter the Schengen country in question. You can do this with a note verbale from that countrys embassy, for example, or another type of document that proves you can travel there. If you do not have such a document, the Dutch border authorities will determine whether you may travel via the Netherlands. Without a document showing you have permission to enter the Schengen country in question, you are advised to fly there directly and not via the Netherlands. If you will be making a short stop at a Dutch airport you may need an airport transit visa. If you are travelling to another country via the Netherlands, you must present a negative test result.
TRUMBULL  At first glance, 10-year-old Teesa Arden and police officer Derek Laaser appear to be unlikely friends. But a second look reveals that their lighthearted banter is punctuated by rapid hand movements and realization that the two share a common understanding of the challenges of deafness.

Teesa, a fourth-grader at Booth Hill School who was born deaf, recently formed a bond with Laaser, who grew up signing to his deaf parents.

It was really a chance to let her know that we are here to help her, and that there are people who are able to communicate with her, Laaser said. If she needs help, she can go to the police, he said, cupping his right hand in a C shape over his badge, the American Sign Language sign for police and nodding at Teesa, who nodded back enthusiastically.

The reassurance carried extra weight with Teesa because she and her sister Teena, 12, have a harrowing background when it comes to authority figures.

Born in rural northern India, the two were found on the streets and taken in by nuns who ran an orphanage. Their adoptive mother Kay Arden said their parents likely abandoned them due to poverty. Teena remembers they had a brother, but does not know what happened to him, Arden said.

The two spent their childhood being moved from one orphanage to another, rarely getting a chance to interact with anyone except for orphanage workers, who sometimes abused Teesa for not being able to communicate, Arden said. At 8 years old, Teena was expected to help care for the younger children at the orphanage, Arden said.

The level of neglect the two girls endured became clear on the drive back to the airport, when Teena pointed to a cow on the side of the road.

She said, Look, a cow, Arden said.

The orphanage had told Kay, and her husband Edward Arden, the girls did not speak English.

Kay Arden said it was a relief to learn, so the family could communicate with her. But Teesa was not able to communicate, having likely been deaf since birth, Arden said.

But six months after arriving at her new home, Teesa received cochlear implant surgery and a whole new world opened up for her, according to Jill Angotta, a teacher for the deaf in the Trumbull schools.

When I first met her, she had no language at all, none, said Angotta, who described teaching Teesa as the toughest challenge of her career. At 6 years old, Teesa could only make grunting sounds.

A year later, with sign language integrated into her learning, Angotta said Teesa took off like a rocket.

All of a sudden, she got it, Angotta said. And then everything, every word, she wanted to know what it means. Shes very motivated to learn.

And the ability to sign led to her getting to know Laaser.

Growing up with parents who were deaf, I just grew up signing, he said. I dont remember ever being taught to sign or anything like that, that was just how it always was.

In his time with the Trumbull Police Department, Laaser said he has been called to scenes to assist in communication and has shown other officers a few basic signs to be able to identify if someone needs help.

He said he became aware of Teesa through the school resource officer at Booth Hill School who suggested meeting the girl.

We thought it would help make her feel more comfortable, Laaser said.

Teesas comfort level has grown to the point of being able to correct her mothers account of some family history, explaining her side of the story to Laaser in sign, which Arden is learning, but is far from fluent.

After she got her cochlear implant, we were home and I had opened the door and she went outside, and then she started to walk away and I called out, Teesa!, and she stopped and turned around, Arden said. Just, that she heard my voice. I hugged her and burst into tears, it was so overwhelming.

Teesa recalls the story slightly differently.

I didnt cry, she signed adamantly.

But in some other family moments, she demonstrates how far she has come in four years. Seeing Laaser thumbing through some family photos, she points out that even before she was able to form words, she was still communicating.

Pointing to a photo of her and Teena smiling at home in Trumbull, she compared it to another one when Kay and Edward came to the orphanage.

In India, no smile, she said.

deng@trumbulltimes.com
Tucson, AZ (85741)

Today

Sun and clouds mixed. High 103F. SE winds shifting to WSW at 10 to 15 mph..

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Partly cloudy. Low around 70F. WNW winds shifting to NE at 10 to 15 mph.
The Health Minister says the vaccination site at the Divali Nagar is not only to be used for the vaccination of those in the manufacturing sector.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 22:18:25|Editor: huaxia

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TEHRAN, May 3 (Xinhua) -- Iran is concerned about the recent developments in Afghanistan, spokesman for the Iranian Foreign Ministry Saeed Khatibzadeh said on Monday.

"For the sake of peace, stability and security of Afghanistan, we will use all our good offices to make that country's future stable," said Khatibzadeh.

Iran is closely monitoring the developments in Afghanistan and is holding consultations with regional actors, he told the weekly press conference.

Iran can facilitate the talks between the Taliban and the government, he said.

Twenty soldiers were killed as militants attacked a military post in the Balablok district of Farah province in western Afghanistan on Monday. Enditem
We are now 22 days into the TweakTown Aussie Flood Appeal and it is time for another update on the donations we have received so far.

At this very moment, the donations total $5,654.17 AUD - yes, some of you donated odd amounts like $11 and $16, but thanks all the same for the extra. It all counts! We have converted to Australian Dollars since that is what will be given.

Happily we are now well above our $5,000 USD minimum, but still a ways short of our target of $10,000 USD. The first end date for the appeal is Feb 26, 2011, but as mentioned in the original news post, we may extend up to March 31st in one week intervals if required.

On behalf of the whole TweakTown team and all of the lovely sponsors involved, I would like to thank each and every one of you for donating so far.

Please remember to tweet, post on Facebook, tell all your friends and scream from your balcony about the TweakTown Aussie Flood Appeal and let's try and hit our amazing target of $10,000 USD for all the people in Australia who have witnessed basically the worst Mother Nature can throw at them.
The National Guard of Ukraine discussed the prospects of deepening cooperation with the Armed Forces of the Kingdom of Sweden.

This was discussed at a working meeting of Deputy Commander of the National Guard of Ukraine Lieutenant General Yuriy Lebed with Head of the Department of Military Policy and Strategic Planning of the Command of the Armed Forces of the Kingdom of Sweden, Major General Lena Persson Herlitz, Ukrinform reports with reference to the press service of the National Guard of Ukraine.

Lebid stressed the importance of deepening bilateral cooperation of the National Guard with military formations of partner countries, including the Swedish Armed Forces, in order to increase combat capabilities and Euro-Atlantic approaches to Guards activities.

"We are interested in cooperation with the Swedish Armed Forces, as this will facilitate the introduction of new approaches to the training and education of officers and sergeants in various areas of combat operations of the National Guard of Ukraine," the Deputy Commander of the National Guard of Ukraine said.

As noted, the needs of the National Guard of Ukraine for the training of special forces, snipers, cynologists, engineers (sappers), divers, as well as language training, mountain training, survival in extreme conditions, gender integration, strategic communications were discussed during the meeting.

Lieutenant General Yuriy Lebid also spoke about the main achievements of the National Guard's bilateral cooperation with the Office of the Defense Attache of the Embassy of the Kingdom of Sweden in Ukraine and thanked for the significant contribution of Swedish instructors in training guardsmen in Operation UNIFIER.

In turn, Major General Lena Persson Herlitz thanked the Command of the National Guard of Ukraine for the opportunity to learn more about the activities of the NGU, its role and functions in the security and defense sector, as well as the tasks performed by the Guards in the Joint Forces operation.

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President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky together with the presidents of Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia will take part in the celebration of the 230th anniversary of adoption of the first Constitution of the PolishLithuanian Commonwealth in Warsaw today.

The presidential summit and bilateral talks between the presidents of Ukraine and Poland will be held within the framework of the visit, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

The presidents will meet at the Royal Castle in Warsaw. The heads of state will take part in a panel discussion on the future of Europe. During the meeting, the presidents will discuss the situation in Europe, the legacy of the past, common historical experience and current cooperation, unity of values, and a shared vision of Europe in the context of current events on the continent.

The presidents will also sign a joint declaration in the context of the 230th anniversary of the adoption of the PolishLithuanian Commonwealths constitution.

After the general meeting of presidents, bilateral talks between President Duda and President Zelensky will take place. Subsequently, the presidents are expected to make a joint statement for the media.

The first Constitution of the PolishLithuanian Commonwealth was adopted by the Great Sejm on May 3, 1791. The Constitution is considered one of the oldest in Europe. However, an attempt to implement the provisions of this document failed due to resistance from local magnates and the occupation of the Polish kingdom by Russian troops in 1792.

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Vilnius will never recognize Russias occupation of part of Ukraines territory and will make efforts to de-occupy these territories.

President of Lithuania Gitanas Nauseda made a corresponding statement during a festive speech at the Polish Sejm on the occasion of the 230th anniversary of the adoption of the PolishLithuanian Commonwealths Constitution, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

The mobilization of Russian armed forces on the border with Ukraine and the military actions in eastern Ukraine carried out by Moscow-backed illegal groups testify to the pressure and incitement of military tension as a driver of political influence. I want to emphasize that Lithuania will never recognize the illegal annexation of Crimea and will act towards ending the actual occupation of the eastern part of Ukraine, Nauseda said to the applause of Polish and Lithuanian MPs.

As reported, the presidential summit of the heads of state of Ukraine, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia takes place in Warsaw on Monday as part of the celebration of the 230th anniversary of the adoption of the PolishLithuanian Commonwealths Constitution. In addition, bilateral talks between the presidents of Ukraine and Poland will be held.

The first Constitution of the PolishLithuanian Commonwealth was adopted by the Great Sejm on May 3, 1791. The Constitution is considered one of the oldest in Europe. However, an attempt to implement the provisions of this document failed due to resistance from local magnates and the occupation of the Polish kingdom by Russian troops in 1792.

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Presidents of Ukraine, Poland, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania consider that the solidarity of nations under current threats to common security is one of the cornerstones of peace, stability, development, prosperity and resilience.

Mindful of the historical experiences, proud of the achievements of our contemporary cooperation in the region and conscious of the challenges, we look with hope to the future. We express the conviction that the prosperity of our common heritage and common home, rooted in the European civilization, demands that, just like home, also Europe be built on the basis of fundamental values and principles. These are with no doubt: freedom, sovereignty, territorial integrity, democracy, the rule of law, equality and solidarity. A uniting Europe should remain open to all countries and nations which share the above-mentioned values, reads the joint declaration of the heads of state, published on the website of the President of Ukraine.

The presidents underscore that they approach with understanding and support the persistent strivings of all the peoples of the region, with whom the nations are joined by common historical fate, and who wish to enjoy the blessings of freedom and democracy while demanding that their rights be respected.

We believe that to all of us the solidarity of nations, especially under current threats to our common security, is one of the cornerstones of peace, stability, development, prosperity and resilience. Led by this assertion we are committed to continuing the dialogue and cooperation among the states we represent, the declaration emphasizes.

As noted, the Presidents of Poland, Estonia, Ukraine, Latvia and Lithuania, meet in Warsaw today in order to jointly celebrate the 230th anniversary of the adoption of the 3 May Constitution.

The passing of that momentous Act in 1791, regulating the legal system of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, was of historic importance since it marked the first modern state effective fundamental law on our continent and the second one worldwide, reads the declaration.

As reported, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky makes a visit to Warsaw on May 3.

The first Constitution of the PolishLithuanian Commonwealth was adopted by the Great Sejm on May 3, 1791. The Constitution is considered one of the oldest in Europe. However, an attempt to implement the provisions of this document failed due to resistance from local magnates and the occupation of the Polish kingdom by Russian troops in 1792.

Photo credit: Jakub Szymczuk, KPRP

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| By Lou Cortina

The co-chairs of the University of Maryland, Baltimores (UMB) 2022-2026 Strategic Plan hosted a second virtual town hall April 29 to discuss with the University community a draft set of Strategic Plan themes: the general areas of focus for the next several years at UMB.

The two town halls  the first one April 1 focused on a draft set of new UMB core values  have been central to the feedback part of a strategic planning process that includes reviewing the Universitys core values, proposing new core values, and developing themes, strategic objectives, and strategic outcomes. This UMB Strategic Plan follows plans developed for 2011-2016 and 2017-2021.

(Take a survey about the April 29 town hall.)

The co-chairs are Judy L. Postmus, PhD, ACSW, dean of the University of Maryland School of Social Work, and Roger J. Ward, EdD, JD, MSL, MPA, interim provost, executive vice president, and dean of the University of Maryland Graduate School. The effort is aided by a steering committee and a logistics committee made up of representatives from around the University.

The themes are influenced by UMBs mission. They are influenced by UMBs vision, Ward said before presenting the proposed themes via PowerPoint. Very importantly, under each theme, there will be a set of strategic outcomes. And this is really where our aspirations show up. Outcomes are the results that we expect to realize if we are successful as an institution in pursuing the strategic objectives.

Here are the proposed themes for the 2022-2026 Strategic Plan and the aspirations for each:

Community Partnership and Collaboration: UMB fully embraces its status as an anchor institution and engages in earnest and respectful partnerships and collaborations with our neighbors and community organizations to realize mutually beneficial goals that have measurable and sustainable impact.

University Culture, Engagement, and Belonging: Members of the UMB community feel comfortable and valued at work, including being treated fairly and respected by their colleagues; are connected to the people they work with and the teams they are part of; and contribute to meaningful work outcomes  understanding how their unique strengths are helping their teams and the institution achieve shared goals.

Student Growth and Success: UMB aspires to a holistic and student-centered strategy across all dimensions of the student experience, inside and outside of the classrooms, clinics, and laboratories. We strive to adapt to the evolving needs of our diverse and changing student population by providing flexible and responsive support services and innovative instruction modalities to promote success and to prepare our graduates to be exemplary professionals and leaders in society.

Innovation and Reimagination: UMB aspires to leverage the intellectual curiosity and creativity of our faculty, staff, and students to cultivate a transformative mindset that embraces new ideas, flexibility, and agility  learning from failures along the way  to successfully imagine new and improved ways to get things done.

Global Health and Education: UMB seeks to enhance its status and reputation as a globally engaged research institution committed to improving the human condition beyond the borders of the United States. Together with our international partners and collaborators, we will support innovative learning, teaching, and dialogue in pursuit of multidisciplinary solutions to global challenges.

Core Values Integration and Accountability: UMB aspires to create a community in which each of us fully embraces our core values and lives them in our words and actions. We seek to empower, encourage, and expect each faculty, staff, and student member of our community to take accountability for their actions and for cultivating a working and learning environment that promotes respect, tolerance, understanding, and fairness.

Ward discussed each theme, taking particular pride in the one focused on students.

No strategic plan at a university would be complete without a dedicated team focused on student growth and success, he said. And what is really special about this one, of course, is that we have student representation on the steering committee, and the students and committee really own this theme and helped us put meaning into it.

Among the next steps in the process, six groups chaired by steering committee members will be formed and tasked with identifying others within the UMB community who can help draft strategic objectives and outcomes for each theme. Objectives are defined as long-term organizational goals that put each theme into context and bring it in to sharper focus; outcomes are the results that UMB expects to realize if it is successful in pursuing the objectives.

During her presentation to kick off the town hall, Postmus discussed the draft set of core values and the feedback received from an online survey after the April 1 town hall. The current set of seven core values  accountability, civility, collaboration, diversity, excellence, knowledge, and leadership  would be replaced by a set of four: respect and integrity; well-being and sustainability; equity and justice; and innovation and discovery. (See results of the survey here.)

The majority of people responded rather well to these four core values, but we understand there is more work to be done in that area. We will continue to take feedback and draft a Strategic Plan by the end of May, then it goes off to the deans, vice presidents, and the president to make final determinations, Postmus said, noting the plan must be in place by June 30.

Its an ambitious timeline, she said. We are grateful to the steering and logistics committee members who have put in a lot of time and effort to get this done in this kind of time frame.
Donatien, 35, is on his phone negotiating the rent for a house he hopes his family can move into when they return home to Burundi.

He and his wife and three children were among a group of 159 Burundian refugees who decided to return home  a 72-kilometre drive across the Nemba border point into Burundi.

We have come home because a country is like a parent. When you are away from your parents, you feel like something is missing, said Donatien, as he waited to go through COVID-19 testing and screening at the Kinazi transit center in Burundi.

Four years ago, he left everything behind when political violence displaced over 300,000 Burundians. He fled with his family to neighbouring Rwanda.

I left my country because there was a lot that happened that caused people to scatter, he said. We kept talking to relatives, friends and neighbours who remained, to know what progress there was in our community.

UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, is facilitating the return of Burundian refugees who have decided to go back home.

UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi talks with Donatien's family at the border crossing in Kirundo Province, Burundi.  UNHCR/Will Swanson

Burundian returnee Donatien, 35, sits with his daughter at the Kinazi Transit Center in Muyinga, Burundi.  UNHCR/Will Swanson

Donatien stands with his family at the border crossing in Kirundo Province, Burundi.  UNHCR/Will Swanson

Donatien and his family cross from Rwanda into Burundi at the border crossing in Kirundo Province, Burundi.  UNHCR/Will Swanson

Since 2017, at least 145,000 Burundian refugees have been assisted to return home, with more than 25,000 coming from Rwanda in recent months. On average, 2,000 people are being assisted to voluntarily return each week from Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Tanzania.

UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi accompanied a convoy from Rwanda during a multi-country visit to the Great Lakes region. He spoke to families like Donatiens who were aware of the challenges awaiting them but expressed happiness to finally be going home.

We have come home because a country is like a parent.

What is now very important is that these returns are sustainable  those who want to go back to Burundi need to have access to basic services including jobs when they arrive, said Grandi.

He also reiterated UNHCRs commitment to continue facilitating the voluntary return of Burundian refugees, adding that it is crucial that the Burundian government ensures the conditions for a safe and dignified return that respects the returnees rights and aspirations.

The return of refugees places great responsibility on the shoulders of the government, especially in ensuring security in areas of return, he added, and we all must work together to ensure that these returns are anchored in the countrys progress.

During his visit, the High Commissioner met President Evariste Ndayishimiye. They discussed the importance of continuing to build conditions for refugees to return in safety and dignity. They also agreed that more support must be given to the communities to which refugees are returning, for reintegration to be successful.

In February, UNHCR, the government of Burundi and 19 partners launched the Joint Refugee Return and Reintegration Plan which appeals for US$ 104.3 million from the international community to assist returnees and the communities where they are returning.

Less than ten percent of the funding needed to support the reintegration of returnees in Burundi has been committed, despite the increase in the number of refugees returning from around the region.

Donatien is filled with anxiety but also expectation as he thinks about what the future will hold. He will receive a small grant to help his family settle back home and hopes to start a business to support his family.

We hope the government has the courage and energy not to allow what happened in the past to happen again. Those coming back feel encouraged and need help to continue with their lives, he said.
Oregon, WI (53575)

Today

Sunshine to start, then a few afternoon clouds. High near 90F. Winds E at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Mainly clear. Low around 65F. Winds E at 5 to 10 mph.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 23:31:35|Editor: huaxia

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HONG KONG, May 3 (Xinhua) -- A bills committee of the Legislative Council (LegCo) of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) on Monday completed the first round of scrutiny of the amendments to Hong Kong's electoral laws since its first meeting on April 17.

Erick Tsang, secretary for constitutional and mainland affairs of the HKSAR government, said he looks forward to the second reading of the bill on May 26.

Tsang expressed gratitude for the efforts of lawmakers and their suggestions on the amendments.

The draft laws, coming in a package named the Improving Electoral System (Consolidated Amendments) Bill 2021, were first introduced to the LegCo on April 14.

Tsang called for the early passage of the bill so that the preparation for the following three major elections of Hong Kong can begin at an early date. Enditem
The lengthy search for a new school superintendent in Nashua has been suspended after the school board hesitated to choose the remaining candidate after a local candidate took a job elsewhere.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-04 00:35:39|Editor: huaxia

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ULAN BATOR, May 3 (Xinhua) -- The number of people vaccinated against COVID-19 in Mongolia reached 1 million on Monday afternoon, according to the Mongolian government's press office.

Under the motto "For summer without COVID-19, let's get vaccinated," Mongolia launched a national vaccination campaign against COVID-19 in late February with an aim to cover at least 60 percent of its 3.3 million population.

As of Monday, Mongolia has confirmed 39,381 COVID-19 cases, with 128 related deaths.

The number of daily new COVID-19 cases in Mongolia has risen sharply since the beginning of April. The COVID-19 surge continues, and around 1,000 cases have been reported per day in the country, mostly in the capital Ulan Bator, which is home to over half of the country's total population.

The Asian country reported its first imported COVID-19 case in March 2020 and confirmed its first locally transmitted cases in November last year. Enditem
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Texas State Class of 2023 students smile for a photo in their Common Experience t-shirts, Saturday, Aug. 24, 2019, at Strahan Coliseum.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-04 04:48:18|Editor: huaxia

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Photo taken on Jan. 22, 2020 shows an exterior view of the headquarters of the World Health Organization (WHO) in Geneva, Switzerland. (Xinhua/Liu Qu)

"Next month, leaders from the G7 countries will gather for what may be the most significant meeting in its history. The G7 countries are the world's economic and political leaders. They are also home to many of the world's vaccine producers," said WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

"If we cannot use it now, when can we use it?" he asked, stressing that "all options to increase production as soon as possible" should be used.

GENEVA, May 3 (Xinhua) -- The Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, and former UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown on Monday called for a temporary waiver of intellectual property (IP) rights for COVID-19 vaccines, as infection rates are on the rise and many countries face the "acute problem" of vaccine shortage.

"If we're going to vaccinate majority of the adults to bring herd immunity, then the amount of vaccine we need will be significantly more than what we have now," said Tedros during a WHO press conference on Monday.

"The production capacity should increase. And that's why the Intellectual Property waiver will be very important," he noted, adding that it wasn't "a charity issue."

A temporary suspension of IP rights for COVID-19 vaccines could be instrumental in vaccine manufacturing "in Africa and in other parts of the world where manufacturing is not happening," said former UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown.

Many countries, including South Africa and India, have called for temporarily suspending IP rights for COVID-19 vaccines to allow production globally.

The World Trade Organization was discussing the IP waiver last week but no definite conclusions have been reached yet in Geneva.

As the UK has taken on the Presidency of the G7 group of nations in 2021 and will host the G7 Summit in June, both Tedros and Brown urged the G7 to make the temporary waiver a reality.

Doses of AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine are displayed during the launch of the COVID-19 vaccination campaign at Mulago Specialized Women and Neonatal Hospital in Kampala, Uganda, March 10, 2021. (Photo by Joseph Kiggundu/Xinhua)

"Next month, leaders from the #G7 countries will gather for what may be the most significant meeting in its history. The G7 countries are the world's economic and political leaders. They are also home to many of the world's vaccine producers," said Tedros, according to the WHO's Twitter account.

"If we cannot use it now, when can we use it?" asked the WHO chief, stressing that "all options to increase production as soon as possible" should be used.

"The provision of waiving IP was meant for this condition, for emergencies, and this is unprecedented," he noted.

"If they could make a decision that they collectively would support a temporary waiver, I think that'd be a huge advance," Brown stressed. 
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Fuaa, Syria, May 3 (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd May, 2021 ) :A blast at a jihadist-run arms depot in Syria's northwestern Idlib region killed two fighters and a civilian Monday, a war monitor said.

The explosion blew the warehouse to smithereens and set fire to a nearby field, an AFP correspondent who reached the scene near the town of Fuaa reported.

The blast destroyed "a warehouse run by jihadists and where missiles and explosive materials were manufactured," the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.

The British-based monitoring group said two jihadists were killed in the explosion, as was a woman who lived nearby.

It was not immediately clear what caused the explosion, but the war monitor said it was most likely caused by an air strike.
(@FahadShabbir)

UNITED NATIONS, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd May, 2021 ) :United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called on all governments to do everything in their power to support a free, independent and diverse media.

"Free and independent journalism is our greatest ally in combatting misinformation and disinformation," he said in a message marking the World Press Freedom Day, which is being celebrated today.

In this regard, the UN chief underscored the importance of reliable, verified and accessible information.

"During the pandemic, and in other crises including the climate emergency, journalists and media workers help us navigate a fast-changing and often overwhelming landscape of information, while addressing dangerous inaccuracies and falsehoods", he said.

"Free and independent journalism is our greatest ally in combatting misinformation and disinformation." Guterres also noted the personal risks journalists and media workers face, including restrictions, censorship, abuse, harassment, detention and even death, "simply for doing their jobs", and that the situation continues to worsen.

The economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic has hit many media outlets hard, threatening their very survival, he added.

"As budgets tighten, so too does access to reliable information. Rumours, falsehoods and extreme or divisive opinions surge in to fill the gap", the Secretary-General said, urging all governments to "do everything in their power to support a free, independent and diverse media".

Michelle Bachelet, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, also highlighted the importance of free, uncensored and independent press as "a cornerstone of democratic societies", conveying life-saving information, improving public participation, and strengthening accountability and respect for human rights.

"Around the world, people have increasingly taken to the streets to demand their economic and social rights, as well as an end to discrimination and systemic racism, impunity, and corruption", she said.

However, journalists fulfilling their fundamental role of reporting on these social protests have become targets, with many becoming victims of unnecessary and disproportionate use of force, arbitrary arrests, and criminal prosecution, Ms.

Bachelet added.

In addition to dissuading other journalists from critically reporting on relevant issues, such attacks weaken public debate and hamper society's ability to respond effectively to challenges, including COVID-19, she said.

Marked annually on May, 3 World Press Freedom Day celebrates the fundamental principles of press freedom. It is also an occasion to evaluate press freedom globally, to defend the media from attacks on their independence, and to pay tribute to journalists who have lost their lives in the exercise of their profession.

The date marks the adoption of the landmark Windhoek Declaration for the Development of a Free, Independent and Pluralistic Press at a UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) conference in the Namibian capital, in 1991.

This year, the World Day focuses on the theme of "Information as a Public Good", affirming the importance of information as a public good, and exploring what can be done in the production, distribution and reception of content to strengthen journalism, as well as to improve transparency and empowerment.

The theme ties in with UNESCO's work to ensure the long-term health of independent, pluralistic journalism, and the safety of media workers everywhere, Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of the UN agency tasked with defending press freedom, said.

"As part of these efforts, we are working to create more transparency on online platforms in areas such as content moderation, while respecting human rights and international freedom of expression rules", she said.

She also highlighted the agency's work to equip people globally with the media and information literacy skills they need to navigate this new information landscape, so they can avoid being duped or manipulated online.

"As we mark World Press Freedom Day, I call on everyone to renew their commitment to the fundamental right to freedom of expression, to defend media workers, and to join us in ensuring that information remains a public good", Ms. Azoulay added.
The district administration continued actions against SOPs and Ehtram Ramzan violations in different areas of Hyderabad on Monday and sealed several shops for violating government orders

HYDERABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd May, 2021 ) :The district administration continued actions against SOPs and Ehtram Ramzan violations in different areas of Hyderabad on Monday and sealed several shops for violating government orders.

On the directives of Deputy Commissioner Fuad Ghaffar Soomro, AC (UT) Dr. Essa Khan along with Revenue officials visited different areas of taluka city and Qasimabad and imposed fine against SOPs violators. Thirsty, Ali Baba and a dairy shop were sealed while individuals not wearing masks were also fined.

In Latifabad talukas, AC Saima Fatima visited bazaars in unit number 8 and got them closed in time. Few shops that had SOPs violations were also sealed.

In taluka City, Mukhtiarkar Abubakar Sadhayo visited different areas and imposed fines of Rs. 50000 against shops violating SOPs while three shops were also sealed for not obeying government directives.

He also ensured closure of the markets at Tilak Incline and Shahi Bazaar in time. He warned all shopkeepers to follow SOPs failing which strict action would be taken against them.
Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune urged his government to open "a dialogue" with social partners to appease mounting social anger

Algiers, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd May, 2021 ) :Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune urged his government to open "a dialogue" with social partners to appease mounting social anger.

Unemployment at 15 percent, soaring prices and shortages of basic food items have all added to turmoil caused by a deep economic crisis due to the fall in oil revenues and political deadlock since the popular Hirak pro-democracy uprising two years ago.

During a cabinet meeting, Tebboune ordered "a dialogue with different social partners to improve the socio-professional situation" of employees in the education and health sectors, a statement said.

Meanwhile, firefighters and other civil protection personnel marched in uniform not far from the headquarters of the Algerian presidency.

Firefighters took to social media to say that police broke up the demonstration with tear gas.

On Thursday, Algeria released on probation Karim Tabbou, a leading opposition activist, after his arrest the previous day.

Tabbou, who was handed a one-year suspended sentence last year for "undermining state security", was charged on eight counts, including "slander", after he allegedly heckled an official during a funeral.

Tabbou and other government opponents have pledged to boycott upcoming polls.

The head of the electoral authority (ANIE), Mohamed Charfi, said this week that 1,730 lists -- 818 party lists and 912 "independent lists" -- had registered for the legislative elections in June.

But he said only 19 parties out of the 39 that had submitted their documents "meet the legal requirements".

The Hirak protest movement was sparked over president Abdelaziz Bouteflika's bid for a fifth term in office.

The ailing autocrat was forced to step down weeks later, but the Hirak has continued its demonstrations, demanding a sweeping overhaul of a ruling system in place since Algeria's independence from France in 1962.
WASHINGTON (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd May, 2021) US Secretary of State Antony Blinken says the relationship between Washington and Beijing is complicated at all levels, which is a cause for unavoidable concern.

"Look, we don't have - the luxury of not dealing with China. There are real complexities to the relationship, whether it's the adversarial piece, whether it's the competitive piece, whether it's the cooperative piece," Blinken said on Sunday on CBS news' "60 Minutes."

According to Blinken, Beijing leadership is striving to make China the dominant country in the world. Blinken told CBS that over the past several years, China has been acting "more repressively at home and more aggressively abroad."

Asked about the possibility of a military confrontation with China, the US Secretary of State emphasized that it is not in the interests of either Washington or Beijing.

"I think it's profoundly against the interests of both China and the United States - to - to get to that point [military confrontation], or even to head in that direction," Blinken said.

He once again reiterated Washington's concerns over the situation in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, as well as Beijing's economic policy.

"[US] President [Joe] Biden made clear - that in a number of - areas we have - real concerns about the actions that - China has taken, and that includes in the economic area, and that includes - the theft of intellectual property," Blinken said.

President Joe Biden has had a rocky start in his relationship with China, with officials from the two countries openly bickering before the media at a meeting in Alaska hosted by Blinken earlier this year.

While Biden has undone most of Donald Trump's executive orders on immigration, climate and other matters, he has left intact the tariffs on China, indicating that his administration would likely use them in the future to pressure Beijing into making concessions on trade and other issues.
(@FahadShabbir)

NOUAKCHOTT (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd May, 2021) Sixteen soldiers were killed in an armed attack in western Niger, while two more were kidnapped, a source in the country's security forces told Sputnik on Sunday.

"Sixteen Nigerian soldiers were killed in an armed attack on a military unit stationed in Tillia village," the source said.

He also stated that two people were kidnapped by unknown assailants.

The Sahel is one of the most problematic regions in Africa, plagued by terrorist activities and illegal migration. Since 2014, France has been leading a 5,000-strong Operation Barkhane in order to curb the jihadist threat in the area. The armies of the so-called G5 Sahel bloc, which includes Mali, Burkina Faso, Chad, Niger, and Mauritania, also participate in the operation.
(@ChaudhryMAli88)

Former United States Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has warned that the US could face "huge consequences" from President Joe Biden's decision to pull all US troops out of Afghanistan

NEW YORK, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd May, 2021 ) :Former United States Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has warned that the US could face "huge consequences" from President Joe Biden's decision to pull all US troops out of Afghanistan.

Biden announced plans last month to withdraw the remaining 2,500 troops from Afghanistan, where the U.S. has been at war for nearly 20 years. All U.S. troops are expected to leave the country by September 11.

As the U.S. begins its withdrawal, the former secretary of state was asked by CNN about Biden's decision to leave.

"It's one thing to pull out troops that have been supporting security in Afghanistan, supporting the Afghan military, leaving it pretty much to fend for itself, but we can't afford to walk away from the consequences of that decision," she said.

While acknowledging that the decision was a "difficult" one, Mrs. Clinton noted the potential for "two huge consequences" a Taliban-controlled Afghan government and subsequent "huge refugee outflow." There could be "a largely Taliban-run government at some point in the not-too-distant future" in Afghanistan, said Clinton, the 2016 Democratic candidate for president.

"How do we help and protect the many, many thousands of Afghans who worked with the United States and NATO, who worked with American and other NATO-connected contractors who stood up and spoke out for women's rights and human rights?" she asked.

"I hope that the administration in concert with the Congress will have a very large visa programme and will begin immediately to try to provide that channel for so many Afghans to utilize so that they are not left in danger." "There will also be, I fear, a huge refugee outflow," Mrs. Clinton said.

"And of course the second big set of problems revolves around a resumption of activities by global terrorist groups, most particularly al Qaeda and the Islamic State." American troops have been in Afghanistan since October 2001, following the 9/11 attacks the previous month.

Former President Donald Trump had wanted to withdraw by May 1, but Biden has said that deadline would be hard to meet due to "tactical reasons." Mrs. Clinton and former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice previously told members of the House Foreign Affairs Committee they were worried about Biden's plan to withdraw all U.S. troops from Afghanistan, according to Axios, an American news website.

On its part, Pakistan has said that the US troop withdrawal should be linked with the progress in the peace process in the war-torn neighbouring country.

The U.S. and its NATO allies went into Afghanistan together on Oct. 7, 2001, to hunt the Al Qaeda perpetrators of the 9/11 terrorist attacks who lived under the protection of the country's Taliban rulers. In his withdrawal announcement, Biden said the initial mission was accomplished a decade ago when U.S. Navy SEALS, a commando unit, killed Osama bin Laden in his hideout in Abbottabad, Pakistan.

"We followed bin Laden to the gates of hell -- and we got him," Biden said in a statement released by the White House to mark the 10th anniversary of al-Qaeda leader's killing.

The U.S. is estimated to have spent $2 trillion in Afghanistan alone over the last 20 years, losing over 2,300 American soldiers during the fighting that ensued, along with an estimated over 47,000 Taliban and Afghan civilians, according to the Costs of War project.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken told CBS' "60 Minutes" in an interview that aired Sunday night that Washington has to be prepared for every scenario.

"Just because our troops are coming home doesn't mean we're leaving," he said. "We're not. Our embassy's staying, the support that we're giving to Afghanistan when it comes to-- economic support, development, humanitarian, that-- that remains. And not only from us, from partners and allies."
A South Dakota neurosurgeon has agreed to pay $4.4 million dollars to settle allegations of being involved in illegal payments and claims of undertaking unnecessary surgical procedures, the US Department of Justice said on Monday

WASHINGTON (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd May, 2021) A South Dakota neurosurgeon has agreed to pay $4.4 million Dollars to settle allegations of being involved in illegal payments and claims of undertaking unnecessary surgical procedures, the US Department of Justice said on Monday.

"Neurosurgeon Wilson Asfora, M.D. of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and two medical device distributorships that he owns, Medical Designs LLC and Sicage LLC, have agreed to pay $4.4 million to resolve False Claims Act allegations relating to illegal payments to Asfora to induce the use of certain medical devices, in violation of the Anti-Kickback Statute, as well as claims for medically unnecessary surgeries," the Justice Department said in a release.

The Justice Department explained that Asfora engaged in kickback schemes that allowed him to profit off of the use of the companies' medical devices during operations such as spinal surgery, some of which were deemed medically unnecessary. The money was funneled back to Asfora through payments to a restaurant that he owned.

In addition, Asfora and his companies will not be eligible to receive Medicare, Medicaid, and other Federal health program funds for a period of six years, the release said.

The whistleblowers in the case will receive $880,000 of the settlement payment, the release added.
RABAT (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd May, 2021) The Transitional Military Council that assumed power in Chad after the death of President Idriss Deby has formed a new, transitional government consisting of 40 ministers, the council's press service informs.

The government, headed by Prime Minister Albert Bahimi Badaki, was named on Sunday, with most ministers from Deby's cabinet retaining their posts, according to a statement from military council spokesman Azem Bermandoa Agouna obtained by Sputnik.

A new national reconciliation ministry was also created. It will be headed by former rebel chief Acheick Ibn Oumar.

Chad's opposition leader Saleh Kebzabo said as quoted by Al Jazeera on Sunday that he "recognised" the transitional government. Two members of his party were named to the new cabinet.

Chad's military announced on April 20 that 68-year-old Idriss Deby, who had been re-elected for his sixth presidential term, died from wounds he sustained during clashes between government troops and the rebels in the country's north.

Chad's military has dissolved the previous government, announcing that the Transitional Military Council will rule the country for 18 months, until new elections are held.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 04:01:08|Editor: huaxia

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TUNIS, May 2 (Xinhua) -- Tunisian Prime Minister Hichem Mechichi said on Sunday that all means will be provided for the health ministry to avoid oxygen shortage in the country's hospitals.

During his visit to the ministry, Mechichi chaired a meeting dedicated to examining practical solutions for overcoming the lack of medical oxygen in hospitals.

The Tunisian government head called for solutions by importing oxygen from neighboring countries, according to a government statement.

"We must think about all the possible scenarios and be prepared well to avoid the oxygen shortage, especially since we are at war against the COVID-19 pandemic," he said.

Mechichi called for the need to redouble efforts to contain the pandemic, noting "the government will provide the logistical and human resources to curb the spread of COVID-19."

He also expressed his thanks to Algeria for supporting Tunisia in this health crisis by providing large quantities of oxygen. Enditem
Mozambiques Catholic Bishops have urged their compatriots to embrace love, unity and solidarity with the people of Cabo Delgado Province affected by violence at the hands of jihadists.

Vatican News English Africa Service

The Metropolitan Archbishop of Maputo, Francisco Chimoio, is optimistic that the armed conflict in Cabo Delgado, northern Mozambique, will eventually be resolved. In the meantime, Archbishop Chimoio has pledged the Churchs closeness with the suffering people of Cabo Delgado.

Desist from hate speech

The Archbishop of Maputo was speaking in Maputo flanked by his Auxiliary Bishop, Antonio Juliasse Ferreira Sandramo. Since February this year, the latter is also the Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Pemba in Cabo Delgado.

Bishop Ferreira urged the government to unite the nation. He called upon ordinary Mozambicans to desist from statements or internet posts that incite hate, war, disunity and violence. Instead, he said, Mozambicans should embrace love, unity and solidarity with those suffering due to the insurgency in Cabo Delgado.

The daring attack on Palma

Jihadist-linked armed groups have terrorised Mozambiques Cabo Delgado Province since 2017. The violence has had an enormous toll on lives and has resulted in the displacement of over 714,000 persons, according to government records. More than 2 500 people have been killed while hundreds of others, injured.

The daring 24 March 2021 attack on the town of Palma, by armed gunmen, caused dozens of deaths and injuries. Over ten thousand persons have since been displaced from the town of Palma.
The Patriarch of the Chaldean Catholic Church blames the tragedy on corrupt authorities who misappropriate public funds, depriving people of adequate services.

By Robin Gomes

The head of the Chaldean Catholic Church has expressed deep grief for 82 people killed in a massive blaze that erupted Saturday night in a hospital for Covid-19 patients in Baghdad, Iraq. The fire also injured 110 others. The casualties included relatives tending to their patients.

It was with great pain and sadness that we received the news, early morning, of a fire in Ibn Al-Khatib Hospital in Baghdad, which is designated for treating people with the Corona pandemic, and the death of more than eighty people and the wounding of many, Cardinal Louis Raphael Sako, the Patriarch of the Chaldean Church, wrote in a condolence message on Sunday.

Iraqi officials said the blaze, triggered by an exploding oxygen cylinder, swept through the intensive care unit of the hospital which tends exclusively to coronavirus patients with severe symptoms. As the death toll climbed, anxious relatives searched for those missing.

Corruption behind tragedy

Cardinal Sako described the tragedy as a humanitarian and national disaster, saying it requires everyone to stand and show solidarity together to take the necessary measures to avoid such shameful disasters. As a Church, he said, we affirm our full support for the efforts of the government, security forces and health personnel, and all Iraqis of goodwill in building peace, stability, unity and providing services, especially in these turbulent conditions as the region is full of conflicts. The patriarch concluded, invoking Gods mercy on the dead, the injured and on Iraq to recover from its recurring crises.

The patriarch, who visited the burnt hospital on Sunday, lamented the state of affairs in the country. There has been no improvement in public services and their maintenance in the past 20 years, he said told Vatican News on Monday. Iraq is a rich country but the funds go into the pockets of corrupt officials. As a result, he said, people suffer because of inadequate services such as in hospital and schools, which are in a miserable situation.

He said she spoke with the prime minister and the president, who are ready to help the people, especially the families of the victims. The Chaldean Church has donated $10,000 as a sign of solidarity and closeness with the victims. Cardinal Sako said they are praying for the dead, the injured and for peace and stability in the country.

Iraqi prime minister, Mustafa al-Kadhimi has said that widespread negligence on the part of health officials is to blame for the deadly fire. The government suspended key officials, including the health minister and the governor of Baghdad province. Other officials, including the director of the Ibn al-Khatib Hospital, were removed from their posts.

Pope Francis

Pope Francis, who has a special love for the strife-torn nation, also expressed his grief for the victims. I am also near to the victims of the fire in the hospital for Covid patients in Baghdad Let us pray for all of them, the Pope urged during his midday Angelus prayer on Sunday.

During his visit to Iraq last month, March 5-8, the first by a Pope to the Middle East country, the Holy Father donated $350,000 to the Chaldean Catholic Church to support local families affected by conflict and the pandemic.

The tragedy

Maher Ahmed, a nurse who was called to the scene Saturday night to help evacuate patients, said the flames overwhelmed the second-floor isolation hall of the hospital within three to four minutes of the oxygen cylinder exploding. Most of those killed suffered severe burns, while others were overcome by smoke inhalation, unwilling to leave behind their coronavirus-afflicted relatives hooked up to ventilators, he told Associated Press. It took firefighters and civil defense teams until the early hours of Sunday to put out the flames.

The tragedy came as Iraq struggles with a severe second wave of the coronavirus pandemic. Daily virus cases now average around 8,000, the highest since Iraq began recording infection rates early last year. At least 15,200 people have died of coronavirus in Iraq among a total of at least 100,000 confirmed cases.
Pope Francis sends a message for the 25th National Pilgrimage of the altar servers of Portugal, urging them to put the enthusiasm of their age into the encounter of Jesus and to be original as they bring forth the gifts and the unique personal talents the Lord has given them.

By Fr. Benedict Mayaki, SJ

Pope Francis has sent a message to the acolytes (altar servers) of Portugal for their 25th National Pilgrimage, which took place on Saturday at the Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima.

In a letter addressed to the President of the Portuguese Bishops Commission for Liturgy and Spirituality, Bishop Jose Manuel Garcia Cordeiro of Branganca-Miranda, the Holy Father said that Our Lady will be happy to see the altar servers around her and that she will whisper to them in the same manner as she did the servants at the first miracle of Jesus at Cana: Do whatever He tells you.

Be holy

Here is the first thing Jesus says to each one of you: be holy, Pope Francis said to the altar servers.

He reminded them of the good fortune they have to approach the altar where the host and wine are consecrated to become the Body and Blood of Our Lord, adding that though their eyes do not see Jesus, their lips and hearts adore Him.

The Pope urged them to behave as befits the service of holy things, conforming their interior and exterior attitudes to be in accordance with what they do, especially when they are near the altar, or when they make the sign of the cross, sit or participate in prayers and hymns in common.

Animated by respect and interior recollection, your service as an altar server will become a Profession of faith for the community, the Pope said.

Offer yourselves to Jesus

Pope Francis further encouraged the altar servers to put all the enthusiasm of their age into the encounter with Jesus hidden under the Eucharistic veil. Offer Jesus your hands, your thoughts and your time, he urged, and He will not fail to reward you, giving you true joy and making you feel where the most complete happiness is.

He highlighted the examples of the saints who found nourishment for their journey toward perfection in the Eucharist, including Blessed Alexandrina of Balazar who lived only on Holy Communion for fourteen years, and Saint Francisco Marto - the little shepherd boy of Fatima whom they have chosen as their model and heavenly protector.

Be original

Recalling his message in the 2019 Post-Synodal Apostolic Exhortation Christus Vivit, Pope Francis reminded the altar servers that they will not become holy and find fulfillment by copying others.

He pointed out that the testimonies of the saints are useful for motivating us towards holiness, yet imitating the saints does not mean copying their way of being and living holiness because that could lead us astray from the unique and specific path the Lord has in mind for us.

You have to discover who you are and develop your own way of being holy, whatever others may say or think. Becoming a saint means becoming more fully yourself, becoming what the Lord wished to dream and create, and not a photocopy, the Pope stressed, adding that their lives ought to be a prophetic stimulus to others and leave a mark on this world, the unique mark that only you can leave.

Further urging the altar servers, the Pope recalled the words of Blessed Carlo Acutis: All are born as originals, but many die as photocopies. He noted that although they may seem different, many end up just like others and do not bring forth the gifts and the unique personal talents the Lord has given to them.

Please, dear acolyte, don't let yourself fall into mediocrity, the Pope said Don't follow negative people, but keep radiating around you the light and hope that come from God! As you know, this hope does not disappoint; it never does! With God, nothing is lost, but without Him all is lost. Don't be afraid, then, to throw yourself into the arms of the Father in Heaven, and trust in Him, who will see to it that you become the original saint that He wants.

The example of St. Joseph

Pope Francis went on to hold up the example of St. Joseph for the altar servers, highlighting that though he did not serve at Mass, St. Joseph became a great altar boy of Jesus by his role as the husband of Mary and the foster-father of Jesus.

He added that St. Joseph set aside his plans to follow Gods plans, taking Our Lady and the Son in her womb into his home, and he refused to lose Mary or Jesus for anything in this world.

And for nothing in this world does St. Joseph want to lose you, generous and good acolyte, the Pope said, urging the altar servers to confidently invoke and zealously imitate St. Joseph, and to worthily serve the miracle of Jesus descent to earth that takes place daily on our altars.

Pope Francis, concluding his message, imparted a blessing on them and prayed that St. Joseph, Guardian of the Holy Family and Patron of the Universal Church may protect all the altar servers of Portugal, together with those who accompany and instruct them, including their families and catechists, as well as their diocesan and national structures and priests and parish priests.

Reechoing Pope St. John Paul IIs 2004 message in his letter to priests on Holy Thursday, Pope Francis urged the priests to be fathers, teachers and witnesses of Eucharistic piety and holiness of life to the altar servers, who see the Eucharist take place in the priests hands, see its mystery reflected on their faces, and in their hearts, as they sense the summons toward a greater love.
Pope Francis received in audience Iraqi Foreign Affairs Minister, Fuad Hussein, on Monday in the Vatican.

By Vatican News staff writer

Pope Francis met Monday with Mr. Fuad Hussein, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Iraq, according to Matteo Bruni, the Director of the Holy See Press Office.

Responding to questions from journalists, Bruni said Pope Francis recalled with gratitude the welcome he received during his recent journey to Iraq, during the meeting which lasted around 30 minutes.

The Pope also addressed an affectionate greeting to Iraq and to all its people, reiterating his hope that all people may grow in solidarity and in the ability to acknowledge themselves as responsible for the vulnerabilities of others.

Pope Francis Apostolic Journey to Iraq took place from 5  8 March 2021.

With the visit, he became the first-ever Pope to visit the Middle Eastern nation.
The Vatican announces that Pope Francis will open a meeting on the demographic crisis facing Italy and other nations, entitled General States of Birth.

By Vatican News staff writer

The Covid-19 pandemic has only worsened a preexisting trend in declining birthrates in Italy, as the nation ages and policies to promote births have had little impact.

The Holy See Press Office announced on Monday that Pope Francis will open a meeting on the General States of Birth.

Organized by the Forum for Family Associations, the event will be held on 14 May at the Auditorium Conciliazione, just a stones throw away from the Vatican.

Demographic winter

According to a press release from the Forum, the online initiative will deal with the demographic crisis which has become even more important due to the pandemic, which has resulted in over 1 million more poor families in Italy.

The main goal of the event is to launch an appeal for mutual responsibility to get the country moving again, beginning with new births.

Looming depopulation

The Forums statement added that Italy is facing depopulation and that birthrates have been negatively affected by structural and legislative deficiencies at the fiscal, economic, and social levels, which are reflected in the collapse of births.

The meeting will bring together experts and high-level Italian officials.

Several government minister will take part, including the Family Minister, Elena Bonetti, Education Minister, Patrizio Bianchi, and the president of the Lazio Region, Nicola Zingaretti.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 09:20:12|Editor: huaxia

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NIAMEY, May 2 (Xinhua) -- Sixteen soldiers of the National Guard of Niger were killed and six others wounded in an attack in Tilia, west Niger, an official said on Sunday evening.

"We have just gone through a painful time. Captain Maman Nameywa of the National Guard of Niger, with his mates, fell yesterday" in an ambush launched by armed bandits in the department of Tilia, Ibrahim Miko, secretary general of the region, confirmed on national television.

"From the front, these armed bandits cannot face our men, and they cowardly took advantage of their return from their mission (at the border with Mali) to ambush them," he added.

The vast Sahelo-Saharan zone faces great threats to its peace, security and development, in particular with the presence of terrorist groups such as Boko Haram in countries bordering Lake Chad, and jihadists based in northern Mali.

On March 21, at least 137 people were killed by unidentified gunmen at several locations in Niger's western region of Tahoua. Enditem
Mexico`s Zapatista rebels, famed for their masks and pipes, are planning to launch a symbolic invasion of Spain, to mark the 500th anniversary of the Conquistador incursion into Mexico.

By James Blears

The indigenous Zapatistas have just confirmed, that they`re going to launch a flotilla of canoes, bound for the old world and Spain, to symbolically invade it, as was done to them by the Spanish overlords between 1519 and 1521.

A smaller armada this time around, consisting of four sturdy canoes manned by a magnificent seven, led by long time Zapatista leader and some time university lecturer, Sub Comandante Marcos. But far from hostilities, they`re planning hospitalities with a fiesta on the territory of the Spanish Main.

They`re preparing to set sail on May 3rd from the Caribbean island of Isla Mujeres and reach Madrid by August 13th, which just happens to be the 500th anniversary of the Spanish War. The Zapatistas insist they were never, ever conquered, as they`re back for more, and after all this time, there`s no need for the Spanish to apologize, as they`ll be peacefully and diplomatically burying the hatchet.

The Zapatistas have mellowed into a political movement, since briefly waging an armed uprising against the Mexican Government in 1994. Since then they`ve settled for political autonomy and splendid isolation.
AWS is supporting enterprises' digital transformation through its AWS Partner Network

COVID-19 made serious socio-economic impacts during 2020, but the pandemic has had a forcing function at many companies to really think about how they operate differently and how they work with customers and consumers. In this situation, technology adaption is an inevitable trend with many success stories.

TechX, a technology startup focusing on cloud computing services, is among the technology solution providers gaining great success thanks to the technology transformation.

TechX was established in February 2020. Six months later, it became an Advanced Consulting Partner of AWS  a leading technology solution firm. With the support of AWS, and especially AWS Partner Network (APN), TechX has now grown from zero to a total of over 100 employees after one year of establishment, with two offices in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

Also impressively, the TechX customer network reaches 150, including 100 small- and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), with many in the banking and finance sector, and powerful groups. In 2020, TechX made revenue of $4 million.

Why APN?

Hong Tran, CEO TechX

Hong Tran, CEO TechX, who has 15 years of experience in the IT industry and provides solutions for banks, financial institutions, and powerful groups in Vietnam, recalled about three years ago, when technology was nowhere near meeting demands in Vietnam. Although customers were willing to fork out millions of US dollars a year on IT, tech firms could not expand their network of clients or improve customers experience.

At that time, I met with a representative of AWS in Vietnam and learned more about AWS philosophy, which was different from other technology firms at the time. AWS focuses on real customer obsession. For example, they work closely with customers in Vietnam, engaging them in daily conversation and sharing experiences so that partners can develop from zero  the way TechX did, Hong said.

AWS' APN enables partners to provide customers with a free trial of its entire suite of services. APN also commits to being a long-term, useful partner for customers, asking them to pay for AWS only as long as they make a profit.

APN also grows with partners. Hong admitted, In the past, when we worked with other partners, it often took us a week or even a month to get a reply. Now with AWS, TechX has immediate support.

Moreover, APN has Go-to-Market support which helps partners with products development, marketing activities, and free trial.

We are striving to help our partners grow and become as successful as they can. We have personally witnessed partners like TechX grow from zero employees to now well over 50 and probably even more. We will continue to help them scale their deep cloud expertise, said Stanley Chan, head of Technology Partners, Asia-Pacific and Japan, AWS.

TechX is taking the next steps in its digital journey. In June 2021, it plans to complete Migration Competency, by July complete Managed Services, and by September complete Data & Analytics Competency, thus enabling it to become a Consulting Partner of AWS in 2021, to have a 200 per cent increase in revenue in 2021, and to increase the number of SMB customers to 5,000 by the end of the year.

How can partners benefit from AWS Partner Network?

Stanley Chan, head of Technology Partners, APJ, AWS

TechX is a typical example of how an enterprise benefits from APN. To date, over 90 per cent of Fortune 100 companies are using APN partner solutions and services. Customers like Masan, Vietjetair, and multinationals with local presence in Vietnam like Samsung and Vodafone all leverage AWS, together with a number of AWS partners to realise their cloud transformation priorities.

For partners beginning their journey starting with AWS by building and developing their practice or technology, APN offers training tools and assigns resources to help them get up and going very quickly.

Next, APN works with partners to identify their areas of strength, where they can specialise, and to differentiate themselves in the market and in the AWS sales organisation.

Next is support to partners through marketing awareness and going to market to drive new business together via digital campaigns, online tools, and sales support.

APN also offers a broad set of resources, tools, and expertise to help its partners develop the right level of marketing based on their needs and the types of clients they target. Some of these are digital, and some of these are agency based and some of these are in person, depending on the customer strategy and partners growth strategies as well.

Stanley Chan said, One example is our upcoming AWS online summit for ASEAN scheduled for May 18 and 19. It will be a large-scale virtual conference where we have customers, partners, and AWS teams share with and inspire each other with their journey to cloud and their digital transformation stories.

According to Stanley Chan, much of the growth in the number of APN members is actually happening in Asia. According to International Data Corporation (IDC),the Asia-Pacific market for cloud is estimated to reach over $80 billion in the next several years.

We still find that Vietnam is an emerging and growing market. We are looking at driving additional enablement, including training to make sure that the companies are confident and understand how they can use cloud, he elaborated.

Great importance is given to how new innovative use cases can be developed, specifically around analytics to better understand their existing business. On the technology side, we actually just had our public sector general manager do a briefing to the Vietnamese press about EdStart. This is an initiative where we are looking to engage the younger population through technology and to use education software and other technology platforms to really train and upskill the population of Vietnam to be cloud-ready. So that is another big investment that we are making to ensure that Vietnam is cloud-ready and maybe cloud-first, he noted.
An IP in Ba Ria - Vung Tau (Photo: VNA)

Ba Ria-Vung Tau - New waves of investment coming to the southern province of Ba Ria-Vung Tau will push up demand for land rentals at local industrial parks (IPs), which in turn will need to be expanded.

According to the provincial IPs management board, the province is home to 16 IPs covering a total area of 9,054 ha.

Together they house 469 valid projects worth more than 20.09 billion USD, with occupancy rates standing at 52.35 percent.

Nguyen Anh Triet, head of the board, noted that the upcoming expansion of local IPs is in line with a Government decree as well as State regulations on the management and planning of IPs and economic zones.

The board proposed the addition of eight more IPs on more than 8,120 ha in the 2021-2025 period.

In response, Chairman of the provincial Peoples Committee Nguyen Van Tho asked relevant departments and sectors to tightly monitor the establishment and expansion of local IPs, taking into consideration their investment effectiveness and impact on the environment and social welfare.

Nguyen Khac Thanh, General Director of Tin Nghia - Phuong Dong Industrial Park Joint Stock Company, said an immediate expansion is necessary to meet investors demand.
Le Khanh Lam, tax partner at RSM Vietnam

Organisations have the best intentions and normally develop a global strategy when approaching a merger or acquisition (M&A). Short cuts, limited resources and potential missteps can cause a merger integration to produce a diminished return on investment. The merger process often deteriorates if the strategy is not documented or linked to the integration plan, or if implementation is poorly managed.

These issues are not limited to small- and medium-sized businesses. Even large companies often focus on tackling high-priority items, but overlook crucial details. If left unattended too long, what were once minor issues can become major concerns with the potential to derail integration and the expected benefits. Whether it has been six months or six years since the completion of a transaction, these issues can be rectified to further optimise deal value.

Realising the value of an M&A starts with a comprehensive strategy and progresses to define the structure of the new, combined entity. Integration planning should start with determining whether the company has the right structure in place to effectively integrate operations. The process then continues to identify what systems, processes, staffing and roles will support the future, integrated business model moving forward in an efficient, scalable way. Taking a holistic, strategic approach to integration is critically important if the company wants to continue pursuing add-on acquisitions.

Many mergers are hampered by inefficiency and redundancy when the two firms continue conducting business with different approaches while processes should be standardised and organisations aligned.

Known pitfalls

Several common issues arise during the merger process that can directly lead to diminished value. If any of these situations exist within your organisation, they should be recognised and addressed or they will limit the benefits realised due to missed opportunities. Depending on the capabilities of the organisation, these problems may be addressed internally.

Many companies simply do not possess the bandwidth to perform an effective integration with internal staff. Internal employees chosen to perform critical integration tasks are typically high performers with multiple roles within the company. It is not that they do not have the knowledge or skills to work through issues  rather, they find it difficult to manage these additional responsibilities while continuing to perform their daily jobs.

Finding enough internal resources with experience and availability in managing complex integration projects provides further challenges and risks to integration efforts. Experienced integration consultants may provide an objective perspective and project resources to accelerate the benefits of integration.

There are some situations, especially in significant mergers, where companies will intentionally operate separately and retain current systems and procedures. Many of the existing departments and systems that are in place when the merger is initiated are retained and may not merge or integrate. Some integration points may be explored, such as how to leverage a common distribution channel to drive revenue growth, but many major areas involving back office and support functions largely remain the same.

Today, economic pressures are rising and many companies must find ways to create more value and efficiency out of their business. The remaining areas for integration are prime targets. Unfortunately, as more time passes after a merger, the more difficult integration may become. After spending time operating separately, pulling infrastructure and people together is often a significant challenge and in some cases requires breaking through cultural barriers.

Following a presidential inauguration, there is a window of opportunity, a 100-day honeymoon period where the public expects change. A similar scenario exists following a transaction. Employees often have a new energy, are eager to see what is going to happen and are engaged in the process. If that moment passes, and integration decisions are put on hold, it becomes more difficult to implement change in culture and processes down the road.

Sometimes acquisitions are straightforward, as one company is absorbed into the acquirers practices. However, in many situations involving M&A, internal politics and other influencing factors can cause delays and result in significant pains. The unfortunate reality is that additional value and benefits may not occur if integration is delayed.

On the other hand, some businesses attempt to initially undertake too much integration at once. Some executives are determined to integrate everything on day one. Snap decisions can be as damaging to the value of a transaction as delaying integration. To meet the demands of a growing business, it is critical that integration is planned and implemented holistically. Insightful planning should be completed to identify improvements in processes, systems and roles.

Organisations should not delay integration indefinitely, but an appropriate amount of time must be invested to ensure that the integrated process is pragmatic. The integration decisions should be based on proven rationale for the newly merged functions and in alignment with an effective business strategy.

A company that takes the initiative in integration often enjoys easier processes and financial victories

Not just about integrating

Many companies consider integration to be solely about data and technology systems. It is perceived that as long as a common system is in place, the businesses are sufficiently integrated. Good data, well-aligned processes, and clear roles and responsibilities  along with a common platform  are essential to operating optimally.

If departments, locations or business units are utilising different business processes and practices, common problems arise from disjointed operations and compromised communications that do not align with strategic goals. Ensure your business is taking a holistic and effective view of organisational and operational integration.

Another common situation is illustrated when a business grows organically and through multiple acquisitions, but fails to build scalable integrated operating capabilities. The result is a larger organisation, but one that lacks the operational capacity and efficiencies that are required by a larger enterprise. Relatively immature and inefficient operational capabilities add significant risk and complexity in supporting the companys further growth plans. Lack of timely integration may result in problems and excessive costs from processes unable to handle the increased volume.

In the case of large M&A deals, it is critical for leaders of both companies to agree on strategy and direction of the combined company as delays can be expensive. If disagreements occur over roles, who stays and goes, and business practices and systems, the company will languish and profits will be at risk.

Emotions and politics sometimes complicate the process as people try to protect their own interests rather than making the best decisions for the combined company. Employees understandably become attached to processes and support tools, making change difficult. However, these political and cultural barriers must be overcome and managed in a timely manner. In this situation, an outside partner could provide the objective advice and help needed to make the difficult decisions while keeping the companys best interests in mind.

Integration may become more daunting and expensive as each day passes. The company could save costs by integration and streamlining of its warehouse operations, inventory management, back-office functions, supply chain vendors and other functions. Many companies do not have the foresight to estimate those potential savings. They often continue with business as usual and do not determine the financial impact before and after the M&A. In the end, did they achieve their growth goals?

A company that initiates integration in a timely fashion often faces a much easier process with quick economic wins. The staff expects change and is amicable to it, and severance packages are often seen as appropriate and generous early in a transition. A professional, efficient integration process can deliver timely and significant value to the new, combined company.

In a prolonged, struggling merger, the combination of unrealised savings, lower employee morale due to uncertainty and an unclear operational strategy can weigh an organisation down and limit its ability to innovate and respond to opportunities in the market. It can also have an impact on the customer base if end-to-end processes are disjointed or if there are mistakes in areas such as billing and shipping. Your employees are the first line to your customers. If employees are unhappy, it is likely being communicated to customers or even to competitors.

While cultural implications may exist, the key business impact in delaying integration is definitely financial. By accelerating integration where it makes strategic sense, you can accelerate the financial returns.

There is a reason that companies agree to an M&A in the first place. However, for the integration to be successful, executives must work together and redefine the new company. When the potential is not fully realised, operational and financial benefits may evaporate. At best, a failed integration results in financial losses and decreased employee morale, while a worst-case scenario is that the companys future is at risk.

Whether an integration delay is due to a strategic decision or unintended circumstances, it is never too late to work towards optimising integrated operating capabilities and realising the benefits of a merger or acquisition. In fact, the best companies continue to identify tactics to further integrate and realise more value from a transaction. An experienced advisor can help objectively evaluate people, processes, and technology to discover more integration opportunities that will drive increased financial returns and position the organisation to effectively support plans for future growth.
Ninh Binh has proposed building an airport and removing a thermal power plant

In a report submitted to the prime minister, the province requested adding its own airport to the national airport planning in 2021-2030 with a vision to 2050.

According to the proposal, the airport would be constructed in 2021-2025 from private capital, with state investment only needed to construct infrastructure connecting to the airport.

The province has highlighted two potential locations for the project, in Kim Son and Yen Khanh districts.

The airport in Ninh Binh would be able to handle planes the size of A320 and A321 models to welcome tourists. According to the province, Ninh Binh has great potential to develop its tourism sector with a diverse landscape including Trang An Landscape Complex and Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, among others.

The province forecast that by 2025, it would welcome 8-9 million passengers, including 2.5 million foreigners.

The province has submitted a similar proposal early this year to the Ministry of Transport.

According to the draft master plan on the development of the national airport network to 2030 with a vision to 2050, the Civil Aviation Administration of Vietnam has proposed to have 26 airports by 2030, 14 of which will be international airports. The number could reach 30 by 2050.

At present, Vietnam has 22 airports in operation, nine of which are international and 13 domestic. Seven airports are located in the north, while seven others are in the central region. The remaining eight ones are located in the south.

Along with the airport, the province is seeking the prime minister's approval to stop the operation of the 100MW Ninh Binh Thermal Power Plant and remove the 220kV substation from the province. The thermal power plant has been operating since 1974.
A delegation from the Ministry of Health is inspecting COVID-19 prevention and control measures in Ha Nam province (Photo: VNA)

Hanoi  Vietnam has no new cases of COVID-19 to report in the past 12 hours to 6am of May 3, keeping the national count at 2,962, according to the Health Ministry.

A total of 39,870 people who had close contact with COVID-19 patients or arrived from pandemic-hit areas are being quarantined nationwide.

As many as 2,549 patients have been given the all-clear, and the death toll remains at 35.

Among the patients under treatment, 19 have tested negative for the coronavirus once, 19 twice and 34 thrice.

An additional 6,143 people received shots of COVID-19 vaccine on May 2, raising the total number of vaccinated people to 532, 247, most of whom work at the frontline in the pandemic fight.

After locally-infected cases were detected in late April, localities around the country are tightening epidemic prevention measures.

The Health Ministry urges all people to strictly follow the 5K motto: Khau trang (wearing facemask)  Khu khuan (disinfecting)  Khoang cach (keeping distance)  Khong tap trung (no gathering)  Khai bao y te (making health declaration), so as to contain the pandemic.
The draft Power Development Plan 8 will have to undergo one more round of tweaks

At the meeting between ministries and relevant authorities, which was hosted by Le Van Thanh, Deputy Prime Minister cum head of the National Steering Committee for Power Development, the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) was asked to review the draft Power Development Plan 8 (PDP8).

This masterplan was not approved in late March under the 2016-2020 government term as expected, though the MoIT on behalf of the Appraisal Council presented the report on the assessment of the draft PDP8 for the period of 2021-2030, with a vision to 2045. Accordingly, the Appraisal Council reached a conclusion that the draft PDP8 met the conditions to be submitted to the government for approval.

Previously, on March 18, the Appraisal Council organised the second meeting to vote to approve the appraisal report and the content of the masterplan. Four members agreed with the appraisal report and the master plan in full, while 22 others said they would approve the report and the masterplan if the latter was adjusted.

The report on assessment also mentioned that although the Ministry of Natural Resource and Environment approved the environmental impact report of the master plan, however, it is still necessary to adjust other contents of the master plan.

EVN, PetroVietnam and National Power Transmission Corporation (EVNNPT) have also expressed concerns about the content of the draft PDP8. Notably, the masterplan does not evaluate primary energy (energy sources found in nature that have not been subjected to any human engineered conversion process) or the proportion of local and imported primary energy in order to ensure national energy security as well as problems relating to imported materials namely liquefied natural gas (LNG) and imported coal, among others.

In addition, according to the above groups, the designed power transmission system has a large capacity to accommodate the registered renewable energy generation capacity and future potential. However, there will be problems if renewable energy and power transmission projects are not implemented synchronously, which will cause waste for both the investors and the state. Thus, EVN, PetroVietnam, and EVNNPT requested further adjustments to the draft to better suit current realities

Furthermore, numerous power grid projects were named without deciding on an actual location, which may impact the land clearance process and prolong the time for land clearance compared to the timelines stipulated in the draft PDP8.
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh (standing) at the working session with the National Steering Committee on COVID-19 Prevention and Control on May 2 (Photo: VNA)

Hanoi  Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has requested that the responsibility of individuals and organisations on COVID-19 spread must be made clear, and asked competent authorities to mete strict punishment to any that violate regulations and have a role to play in the failure of the containment.

At a working session with the National Steering Committee on COVID-19 Prevention and Control on May 2, Chinh asked the committee to review the pandemic prevention work in the past time, with focus sharpened on analysing responsibilities of organisations, localities, and individuals.

The session was held in the context that the pandemic has become more complicated in the country recently since more people have tested positive for the SARS-CoV-2 after coming into close contact with a patient in the northern province of Ha Nam.

As Ba Ria  Vung Tau province, Khanh Hoa province and Da Nang city have failed to follow the Ministry of Healths prevention instruction in recent days, local authorities must work to clarify personal responsibility, he stressed.

Harsh punishment, even criminal liability, must be imposed to any violations of existing regulations, he said.

COVID-19 patients should receive timely treatment; however, he said, anyone who does not obey quarantine rule leading to the spread of COVID-19 will be penalised.

PM Chinh ordered sectors and localities to carry out COVID-19 prevention directions of the Party Permanent Secretariat, the State President, the Government and the Prime Minister, and most recently President Nguyen Xuan Phucs direction which requires localities nationwide to kick off preventive measures to zone off and stamp out the outbreak.

He ordered localities to enhance testing capacity as well as tighten discipline at concentrated quarantine sites, medical stations, and immigration areas.

Additionally, the Ministry of Health must speed up COVID-19 vaccination, and work to approach more quality vaccine sources, he added.
Qualcomms Thieu Phuong Nam explains why IPs are crucial for startups

Nothing underlines this better than the amendments to the Law on Intellectual Property, which are set to be presented at the National Assemblys October session, and which are expected to be approved by May 2022. The proposed changes focus on strengthening the protection of patents, trademarks, and geographical indications in order to encourage innovation among Vietnamese firms.

While the main aim of these amendments is to ensure that Vietnamese laws and regulations comply with the free trade agreements which the country has signed, these will also play a key role in developing Vietnam into a regional centre for innovation.

For one, these will support the aspirations and ambitious goals set by the governments Make in Vietnam programme, which seeks the establishment of 100,000 tech firms in the country by the end of the decade.

Given how central IP will be realising Vietnams ambitious innovation goals, numerous stakeholders have intensified commitments to raising awareness about, and protecting, IP. Such rights are deemed key to startups as they are considered an intangible asset. Specifically, an IP can provide a company or startup its unique selling proposition; help them maintain a competitive advantage to sustainably differentiate itself from competitors; and enable it to own exclusive rights to a number of technologies.

Given the advantages they bring, startups which own IPs are considered more attractive by some investors. They also help increase a startups ability to earn sizable revenues once they are able to scale up operations, said Thieu Phuong Nam, general director of Qualcomm for Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia.

According to Nam, the protection of IP can also contribute to Vietnams overall economic and national development, especially in the age of 5G and Industry 4.0.

IHS Markit forecasts that potential global sales activity across multiple sectors enabled by 5G could reach over $13 trillion in 15 years  representing approximately 5.1 per cent of all global real output in 2035. As such, protecting their respective IPs can help Vietnamese enterprises participate in, and benefit from, this increase in economic activity.

Since Vietnam passed the Law on Intellectual Property in 2005, domestic businesses awareness of the importance of IP has improved. However, the number of applications for patents and useful solutions remains low. Many business leaders still have poor knowledge about intellectual property, while the legal system to enforce related laws remains inefficient, according to the National Office of Intellectual Property of Vietnam.

August 2019 marked a new development step in the protection of IP rights when the prime minister issued the National Intellectual Property Strategy until 2030. This directive is an important tool not only to promote innovation but also to improve national competitiveness and contribute to the economic, cultural and social development of the country. In line with this, in December 2019 Qualcomm launched the Qualcomm Vietnam Innovation Challenge (QVIC) to support innovative Vietnamese startups in promising new technology areas  and to help them protect their inventions with patents. This initiative, which has the support of the Ministry of Science and Technology, aims to help develop Vietnams rising technology ecosystem by identifying and nurturing innovative small- and medium-sized companies that are designing products in 5G, Internet of Things, AI, smart cities, wearable devices, and Qualcomms multimedia mobile platforms and technologies.

To help ensure the future success of the startups that get accepted into the programme, Qualcomm has embedded IP at the heart of QVIC.

Firstly, it provided the 10 finalist startups with financial incentives of up to $5,000 per startup for the filing of patents. These incentives were put in place to encourage the startups to register their respective IPs. Qualcomm has also tapped law firm Baker McKenzie Vietnam to provide finalists with IP protection training as an integral part of the programme.

Qualcomm has also engaged Baker McKenzie Vietnam to provide consultancy and/or filing services to the startups when they submit their respective patents.

With these initiatives, we are equipping QVIC finalists with the means to protect their respective IPs, which can help them further develop their businesses, explained Dr. An Mei Chen, vice president of Engineering at Qualcomm. This also underlines the importance we put on IPs. Given that it takes creativity and hard work to develop tech products and services, protecting IPs is key to fuelling further cycles of research and development and invention.

With its efforts, Qualcomm hopes to enable not only the future success of the QVIC participants by encouraging them to register, and therefore, protect their IPs, but also to spread the word about the importance of IP to the larger startup community in Vietnam.
Vingroup soaring overseas investment

Vietnam's overseas investment in the first four months of the year has increased sharply thanks to the expansion of Vingroup to markets like France, the Netherlands, Canada, Singapore, Germany, and especially the US.

According to the Ministry of Planning and Investment's Foreign Investment Agency, 18 overseas investment projects have been granted certificates with $142.8 million in total investment in the first four months of the year, up 2.7-fold against the corresponding period last year, while nine projects have adjusted investment by $403.2 million, up 25.5 times.

Vingroup has been instrumental in this growth, with its three new projects in France, the Netherlands, and Canada with a total investment of $32 million and a $20.5 million new project in Singapore to export and import telecommunications equipment, electronics, home appliances, and cars.

The conglomerate also raised investment in the US by $300 million, and by $32 in Germany. In 2021, Vingroup's subsidiary VinFast will release five e-bike models, and three smart car models (VF e34, e35, and e36), which will be launched in overseas markets like the US, Canada, and Europe by the end of the year or in early-2022.

Meanwhile, VinSmart will launch some new smartphone models in various segments to maintain its position among the top three smartphone brands in the local market, as well as start exporting to the US in 2021.

The total Vietnamese investment overseas in the first four months was $545.9 million, 7.9-times as much as a year ago. Of this, $270.8 million was poured into professional, science-technology activities; $147.8 million into wholesale, retail, and vehicle repair; and $76.9 million into agriculture, forestry, and fishery.

In the first four months, 15 countries and territories received investment from Vietnam. The US ranks first with $302.3 million (making up 55.4 per cent of the total), followed by Cambodia with $89.1 million (16.3 per cent), France, Canada, Germany, and the Netherlands with $32 million (5.9 per cent) each.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 11:20:50|Editor: huaxia

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TRIPOLI, May 2 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) said that some 95 illegal migrants rescued off the Libyan coast were returned to Tripoli on Sunday.

"Some 95 persons have been intercepted/rescued at sea, and returned to Tripoli by the Libyan Coast Guard tonight," UNHCR tweeted later Sunday.

"UNHCR and IRC (International Rescue Committee) are currently providing them with blankets, water, and medical assistance," UNHCR said.

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) said that at least 11 illegal migrants drowned on Sunday when a rubber dinghy capsized off the coast of Zawiya city, some 45 km west of the capital Tripoli.

Over the past few days, hundreds of illegal migrants have been rescued by the Libyan Coast Guard and returned to Libya, while many others drowned at sea.

Due to years of instability and unrest, Libya has become a preferred point of departure for thousands of migrants wanting to cross the Mediterranean Sea to reach European shores.

Rescued migrants end up inside overcrowded reception centers across Libya, despite repeated international calls to close those centers. Enditem
A slew of documents obtained by the UKs Daily Mail appear to further confirm that SARS-CoV-2, the virus which causes COVID-19, originated from the Chinese Communist Partys Biosecurity Level 4 facility, the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV).

Daily Mail says the documents reveal a nationwide project to identify new viruses that began almost nine years ago. They found one leading Chinese scientist who provided the in silico genetic sequence for SARS-CoV-2 the world has heavily relied on in January 2020 had previously discovered 143 new viruses; this happened during the initial three years of the project.

Two of the prominent project leaders are WIV virologist Shi Zhengli, who is often known as Bat Woman for her spelunking expeditions in search of virus samples, and Cao Wuchun, a CCP advisor on bioterrorism and a senior Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) officer.

Shi denied that any PLA work has been conducted at the Institute. Daily Mail says a major project detailed in the documents is The discovery of animal-delivered pathogens carried by wild animals, the aim of which was to discover organisms capable of infecting human beings and looking into their evolutionary process.

Funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China, the study, launched in 2012, was headed by professor Xu Jianguo who initially denied SARS-CoV-2 was capable of human transmission when the existence of the virus first became public, despite evidence from hospitals which clearly indicated otherwise.

By 2018, Xus project had uncovered hundreds of new pathogens.

Han Lianchao, a dissident who used to work for the CCP, told Daily Mail that Caos involvement in the project raises the possibility that PLA virologists are also involved in bio-defense programs.

The U.S. Department of State under the Trump administration had earlier raised concerns over some experiments conducted at the Wuhan lab that aimed to manipulate coronaviruses.

Filippa Lentzos, a biosecurity expert at Kings College London, noted that there are a lot of inconsistencies in Beijings narratives. They are still not being transparent with us. We have no hard data on the pandemic origins, whether it was a natural spill-over from animals or some kind of accidental research-related leak, yet were unable to get straight answers and that simply does not inspire confidence, she said to Daily Mail.

In September last year, Chinese virologist Dr. Yan Li-meng claimed that the COVID-19 virus was made in a laboratory in China. At a talk show, the virologist revealed that she was investigating new pneumonia in Wuhan when she came across a government cover-up to deny the existence of the pandemic.

Li had to flee China due to potential retribution from the communist regime. A WHO investigation shrouded in conflict of interests into the origin of coronavirus published last month attempted to dismiss the lab leak theory as extremely unlikely.

In late March, the former director of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Dr. Robert Redfield, told CNN that he supports the idea of the virus emerging from a Wuhan lab and possibly circulating as early as September 2019. Im of the point of view that I still think the most likely etiology of this pathology in Wuhan was from a laboratory  escaped, he said in an interview.

Other people dont believe that. Thats fine. Science will eventually figure it outIts not unusual for respiratory pathogens that are being worked on in a laboratory to infect the laboratory worker.

However, Redfield later denied implying the virus was intentionally leaked.

Bat Womans lax safety standards in action

In January, an article published in Taiwan News brought attention to a video released two years prior to the pandemic showing scientists from the WIV being bitten by bats.

The scientists were shown displaying a lax attitude towards protective equipment and safety standards in the video, published in December 2017, which showed Shi Zhengli and her research team, who at that time claimed to be investigating the origin of SARS.

In one instance, a scientist can be seen holding a bat with bare hands. Other members can be seen collecting bat feces while only wearing gloves and no other protective equipment. Another person, possibly Shi herself, is seen handling samples without gloves. A researcher named Cui Jie even describes being bitten by a bat whose fangs went right through his gloves, an experience he likens to being jabbed with a needle.

A persons limb is shown to have swelled from a bat bite. In another footage, shot at a cave where coronaviruses originate, the researchers can be seen collecting virus samples without masks. It raises the possibility that the scientists became infected with a coronavirus, including even COVID-19, however unlikely that may be, the article states.

CCP unable to learn its lesson

While the world grapples with the crisis unleashed by the coronavirus pandemic, the Communist Party is passing a new law that will see the Party build many more biosecurity labs in the country.

A new Biosecurity Law is aimed at labs specializing in advanced pathogenic microbiology. Deputy Minister of Science and Technology Xiang Libin claims the Party is seeking to improve Chinas capabilities in the field of biosecurity science and enhance its technological capacity against infectious diseases that may emerge in the future.

As of now, the CCP has approved the construction of 88 biosafety level-3 labs, and three biosafety level-4 labs, Xiang told propaganda rag Global Daily.
Indias new wave of apparent COVID-19 infections is running wild. At the beginning of March, India was recording around 15,000 new positive PCR tests per day. Things started getting worse during the first week of April when new infections jumped to more than 100,000 per day. Over the past two weeks, the country has peaked close to 400,000 new positive tests on April 29 with Coronavirus Disease 2019 associated deaths in excess of 3,500 reported on April 28 and 29.

Media reports say hospitals and crematoriums are now faced with extensive lineups of people waiting to get their symptomatic relatives treated and the dead properly cremated, while some crematoriums are expanding in order to accommodate a reported massive influx of dead bodies.

Death rates, however, are speculated to be severely underreported. British Sky News claims from on the ground reporting to have seen quite a collection of ambulances carrying dead bodies that did not seem to align with the number of reported COVID-19 deaths, In Uttar Pradesh, our researchers counted about 25 bodies awaiting funerals at the Hindon crematorium in Ghaziabad and another eight which were lit.

Whilst inquiring about the official tally, the person in charge insisted they were dealing with only about six funerals daily on average. When our researcher challenged him on this, he was informed, weve been told to give that (lower) number by higher authorities., reads the article.

At present, the death toll in India stands at approximately 208,330 on April 30 according to Our World in Data.

An Exodus

Wealthy Indians are reportedly fleeing the country via private jets to escape the pandemic. Just before travel restrictions were put in place by many countries blocking Indian entry, there was a huge rush of rich families flying off to Dubai and London, according to an article by Indian publication Business Today. A one-way trip to Dubai in a private jet can cost up to $20,000 USD.

The UAE recently placed restrictions on travelers from India. Another favorite destination seems to be the Maldives. However, only a few resort-only islands are now accepting Indian guests.

On April 30, Joe Biden banned most travel from India to the U.S. The ban takes effect on May 4.

Australia had previously banned flights to and from India. The UK now requires British and Irish nationals arriving from India to hotel quarantine. Canada, by the same token, announced a ban on flights from India and Pakistan for a period of 30 days.
HMS Queen Elizabeth, billed to be the most powerful aircraft carrier in the UK, will be setting sail for Asia next month in what will be a British display of military might, directly challenging Beijings ambitions in the region. The vessel will have eight jets on board and will be accompanied by six Royal Navy ships, 14 navy helicopters, and a submarine armed with Tomahawk cruise missiles. A company of Royal Marine Commandos will also be present aboard the carrier.

The deployment will last for a period of six months, during which the fleet will visit 40 nations, including key western allies such as India, South Korea, Japan, and Singapore. The fleet will participate in 70 engagements as well as a joint exercise with Malaysia, New Zealand, Australia, and Singapore as part of the 50th anniversary of the Five Power Defense Arrangements. Defense Secretary Ben Wallace said that the fleets mission is to show that Britain will be playing an active role in shaping the international system.

When our Carrier Strike Group sets sail next month, it will be flying the flag for Global Britain  projecting our influence, signaling our power, engaging with our friends, and reaffirming our commitment to addressing the security challenges of today and tomorrow, said Wallace. The entire nation can be proud of the dedicated men and women who for more than six months will demonstrate to the world that the UK is not stepping back but sailing forth to play an active role in shaping the international system of the 21st century.

Last month, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that the Indo-Pacific region will become a key part of Britains foreign policy and trade focus as it reconsiders its place in the international community following Brexit. The Ministry of Defense indicated that the carrier strike group will aim to achieve the goals set out in the Integrated Review published in March by the government. The review stated that the UK will focus on investments that boost its China-facing capabilities.

The HMS Elizabeth weighs more than 65,000 tons, can carry up to 72 aircraft, and can hit a maximum speed of 25 knots. Its flight deck is 280m long and 70m wide. The ship will house a crew of around 700, a number that will jump to 1,600 when all jets are embarked.

The Taiwan issue

HMS Queen Elizabeth is scheduled to sail through the South China Sea but not the Taiwan Strait. Some lawmakers in Britain are troubled by this plan, given that the voyage is said to focus on freedom of navigation. Former Conservative leader Sir Ian Duncan Smith asked the government to rethink this journey. Accepting that he is pleased with the deployment of the aircraft carrier in the South China Sea, Smith said that the fleet needs to sail through the Taiwan Strait to let Beijing know that its aggressive actions against its neighbors will not be tolerated.

However, others are against the idea. Former First Sea Lord Admiral Lord West said that going through the South China Sea is enough to make a strong statement. After leaving Portsmouth, HMS Queen Elizabeth will visit Gibraltar, pass through Suez Canal, visit Al Duqm port in Oman, sail to the Indian Ocean, stop at Singapore, and finally engage in exercises with Japanese and American forces.

The Peoples Republic of China (PRC) recently held military exercises near Taiwan  which is formally known as the Republic of China (ROC)  and sent several jets to breach the self-governed islands airspace. Beijing is troubled by the growing military ties between Taiwan and the United States and accuses America of creating tensions in the region. The ROC minister in charge of the coast guard recently warned Beijing that they will shoot down Chinese drones if they venture too close to the islands territory. Taiwans Foreign Minister Joseph Wu said that Washington is concerned about the risk of conflict.

From my limited understanding of American decision-makers watching developments in this region, they clearly see the danger of the possibility of China launching an attack against Taiwan, Wu said in early April. We are willing to defend ourselves without any questions and we will fight the war if we need to fight the war. And if we need to defend ourselves to the very last day we will defend ourselves to the very last day.

Military cooperation

Chinas aggressive attitude in the South China and East Asia seas is making countries around the world cooperate militarily to counter possible threats from the communist nation. The Quad, which refers to the United States, Australia, India, and Japan, met in March to discuss various security issues, including confronting China and maintaining a rules-based order in the East and South China Sea.

Japanese forces are planning to conduct emergency exercises near the Senkaku Islands that China has laid claim to. The exercises will be conducted from September to November and will be the largest such activity in the history of the Japan Self-Defense Force. Several NATO nations are boosting military presence in the Indo-Pacific region. In March, Canadian vessel HMCS Calgary passed through the South China Sea. A month earlier, two French ships went past the region, including a nuclear attack submarine. A German frigate is scheduled to sail to Asia in August, passing close by Chinese territory.

On March 15, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg referred to the Chinese regime as a global challenge: China is [an] authoritarian country that doesnt share our values. They will soon have the biggest economy in the world. They already have the second largest defense budget. Theyre investing heavily in new modern military capabilities. And I strongly believe that NATO should remain a regional alliance, North America and Europe. Stoltenberg said to the European Parliaments Committee on Foreign Affairs.
With plunging profits, Cambodia's largest casino is set to slash 1,300 jobs and pay redundant staff a fraction of the severance money they are legally owed, the workers' union and advocates said, as the COVID-19 pandemic threatens labor laws worldwide.

NagaWorld resort - with almost 1,700 luxury rooms, themed gaming halls, karaoke lounges, spas and an underground shopping centre in the capital, Phnom Penh - told more than 15% of staff this month that they will be laid off in the next few weeks.

Redundant staff will lose tens of thousands of dollars as severance packages will be calculated based on reduced wages in 2020 and using government guidelines introduced to help businesses hit by the pandemic, the union said.

"Workers risked their safety to make profits for NagaWorld during the pandemic and then when they need help, they are abandoned," union leader Chhim Sithar told the Thomson Reuters Foundation.

"We are asking for support and they have responded with the idea of mass layoffs. It's extremely disappointing," she said, adding that NagaWorld's plans breach labor laws as redundancies should take into account seniority and length of service.

NagaWorld declined to comment.

Activists and academics have warned of a rollback of labor rights globally with the pandemic, as companies can capitalize on soaring unemployment to coerce workers to accept worse terms and conditions.

Since the COVID-19 crisis began, many countries have eased regulations on business to support the private sector at the expense of workers' rights, according to the International Trade Union Confederation.

PROFITS

Cambodia had one of the world's lowest numbers of COVID-19 infections but cases are now at their peak, with 82 deaths and 11,000 cases since the pandemic began.

NagaWorld was allowed to remain open for most of 2020, only closing from April to July. But with inbound tourism decimated and gambling illegal for Cambodian nationals, NagaWorld profits dropped to $102 million in 2020 from $521 million in 2019.

The casino resort, which has exclusive gaming rights in Phnom Penh, suspended operations again last month after several staff tested positive for coronavirus. The city went into a two-week lockdown on April 15.

After Cambodia's vital garment sector stalled last year, the labor ministry outlined relief measures for employers facing layoffs and shutdowns, including suspension of long-service bonuses and other staff entitlements.

Those measures - along with NagaWorld using reduced salaries from 2020 as the basis for calculating long-term severance packages - fly in the face of Cambodia's labor law, said Khun Tharo of the Center for Alliance of Labor and Human Rights.

"It undermines basic rights that workers are entitled to," said Tharo, a program manager with the advocacy group.

The labor ministry did not respond to requests for comment.

Allowing the casino - whose Malaysian CEO and founder has donated $10 million to the government's COVID-19 fund to purchase vaccines - to slash severance payments would set a dangerous precedent, campaigners said.

"NagaWorld profits, but the workers go hungry? If they get away with this, it would encourage employers across sectors to do the same," said Tharo.

For Som Channmony, termination with a slashed severance would be an insult. With 25 years of service and accrued benefits, she sees herself as a likely target.

The 42-year-old, who is the main provider for her mother, niece and nephew, fears she could lose up to half of some $10,000 she believes she is entitled to.

"My situation is not so bad but my co-workers are suffering - many of them have already run out of money to feed their families," she said.
Prime Minister Hun Sen announced Monday that citywide lockdowns in Phnom Penh and Kandals Takhmau city will be eased after May 5, and more targeted lockdowns will be used going forward.

The announcement brings an end to a three-week lockdown in the two cities, which was extended by seven days last week and also saw the introduction of a three-color zone system.

The red-zone communes, which have the harshest lockdown measures preventing movements and business activity, resulted in thousands of people calling for food and essential items in a Telegram group set up by the government. There were small protests in parts of Meanchey district where people demanded food aid.

Hun Sen said on Facebook that there was no reason to continue the lockdown in both cities and that the three-color zone system would be used in a more targeted manner. It was not immediately clear how lifting the lockdown differed from the current situation where yellow-zone communes have few restrictions and businesses have reopened.

We will open. But some small areas of the provinces or [Phnom Penh] will be locked down due to the high risks of infection, Hun Sen said on Facebook.

Cambodia has continued to see a high number of new infections, reporting around 2,000 cases in the last three days. There were 388 cases on Saturday, 730 on Sunday and 841 on Monday.

The prime minister appealed to Cambodians to understand why the lockdown was necessary but did not specify if the lockdown had worked.

Or Vandine, a secretary of state at the Health Ministry, could not be reached for comment on Monday.

During the lockdown, the government has detained 430 people and imprisoned 10 people for breaching lockdown measures during the past three weeks. Of the remaining, 60 were educated and 320 were fined under a new COVID-19 law, according to Phnom Penh Municipal Police spokesperson San Sokseiha.

Yong Kim Eng, director of the People's Center for Development and Peace, said information about the lockdown changes constantly and is ambiguous.

The measures are unclear and uncertain. It is hard for people to understand them properly. Thats why some people wrongly followed [the rules], he said.

He urged the government to help those affected by the lockdown, especially residents in the red zones, and consider waving electricity and water charges for people stuck in the areas.

A group of 36 trade unions and NGOs raised their concerns in a statement about food shortages for residents living in red zones, where markets are not allowed to operate.

Put in place social assistance programs such as emergency aid including food and other daily necessities provided in a timely manner during periods of lockdown, in particular for workers in red zones. Arrange clean, safe and suitable areas for traders, street vendors, market vendors and public vendors, the April 28 statement reads.
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Zimbabweans journalists joined the rest of the world today in marking World Press Freedom Day amid concerns of over the crafting of a cybersecurity bill, which seeks to strictly monitor the social media sphere. Veteran journalist, John Masuku, speaks about this issue with VOA Zimbabwe's Gibbs Dube.
A citizen-funded COVID-19 effort in Malawi has received an award from Queen Elizabeth for its work fighting the coronavirus pandemic.

The queen said the initiative shows the utmost transparency in the use of its privately raised funding.

Malawis COVID Response Private Citizens Initiative started in January, when the countrys hospitals were overwhelmed with coronavirus patients and lacked resources at the peak of the second wave of the pandemic.

Public hospitals were in short supply of oxygen cylinders, concentrators, diagnostics kits and other equipment essential to treat COVID-19 patients.

Dr. Thandie Majenda Hara, deputy lead organizer for the initiative, said, "At some point we had a patient who literally went to Kamuzu Central Hospital and put up an SOS on his Facebook page saying that, apparently, they did not have enough flow meters, so he couldnt have access to oxygen, as well as patients that were in the ward with him. And it was that particular cry for help that was a trigger for what in the end became this initiative.

Equipment, food, repairs

She said the group spearheaded a crowdfunding campaign that raised $286,000 to buy oxygen cylinders, ventilators, personal protective equipment and other items most needed in public hospitals.

The initiative also brought food to health workers, fixed ambulances and repaired some damaged infrastructure inside hospitals.

The people that actually came together to donate here were not people who had extra cash to spend," Hara said. "We had primary students; we had people [from] as far away [as] Australia, Chitipa, Nsanje [districts], everywhere. People were committed to doing something about the lot.

In Britain, in a press release Friday, Queen Elizabeth said the award was given in recognition of the initiative's transparency, accountability and efficiency.

Arrests, audit

The Commonwealth Points of Light award was given at a time when police in Malawi have arrested more than 64 government officials after an audit revealed misuse of $8 million in government funds allocated for the fight against COVID-19.

Police said some of the suspects were out on bail facing charges including fraud, theft by public servant and abuse of public office. In a statement this week, police said detectives were still investigating and more arrests would follow.

David Beer, the British high commissioner in Malawi, said the award was a token of appreciation for what Malawis citizen-driven COVID-19 response initiative had done.

The award on behalf of the queen, you know, is very much because the group, eight of them, has done such an astonishing job," Beer said. "This initiative is having incredible effect  not the amount of money they have raised, but what they have managed to do with it, and we want them to have recognition.

Health rights campaigners said the award would send a message to those in charge of COVID-19 funds that good work pays.

'Amazing response'

Hara said the award was not something the team expected.

"We never really went out to gain the award," she said. "We are very, very happy; we are very proud that the initiative has been recognized. So, for us the award isnt really about the team. Its not about any of us. Its about the amazing response Malawians gave in a time of the crisis.

She said the initiative would continue to assist in critical situations.

Hara said the initiative above all had proved that collective responsible action by Malawis citizens was possible even in a time of national crisis.
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Amid a surge of COVID-19 cases in India and other parts of the world, the Biden administration remains noncommittal on a proposal to loosen patent restrictions so that countries can manufacture generic versions of the coronavirus vaccines. White House correspondent Patsy Widakuswara has this report.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 21:13:24|Editor: huaxia

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MOGADISHU, May 3 (Xinhua) -- Somali Prime Minister Mohamed Roble on Monday vowed to promote press freedom in the country.

Roble said Somali journalists face challenges of tackling misinformation and other harmful content while having their own security concerns.

"I took this opportunity to praise the sacrifices of Somali journalists and their resilience and commitment to serving and informing the public under very tough circumstances over the years," he said in a statement issued in Mogadishu to mark the World Press Freedom Day Monday.

Roble said the government will come up with a solution to tackle disinformation which he said is affecting Somalia particularly during the transition period, urging Somali media to refrain from reporting unverified and unreliable information to improve the services media provides for the public.

The prime minister said Somali media should be contributing to the peace building and not to the incitement of election-related violence in the country.

The government of Somalia has been working hard to improve the working environment of the journalists by giving them access to government information, working closely with the private media and facilitating them to cover government events and also ensuring their safety, said Roble, who noted that Somalia is a country recovering from long years of civil war and going to achieve a democratic election, therefore the media can greatly contribute to the achievement of that goal.

"As you may be aware, our country is going to elections soon. My government will guarantee the safety of journalists and access to information. I urge journalists and the media to be responsible and do their job professionally," he said.

According to Somali Journalists Syndicate, an association of media practitioners, from January to April, 30 journalists were arrested, with two of them indicted and three media houses raided.

In a separate statement issued in Mogadishu Monday, James Swan, Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Somalia, also reaffirmed the importance of World Press Freedom Day, as it provides an opportunity to advance the principles of press freedom and to pay tribute to journalists who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

Swan said the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM) plans to conduct capacity building training for about 160 journalists in 2021, adding that so far some 45 journalists have been trained.

The UN envoy said a free, independent and pluralistic media has never been so important to empower Somali women and men, strengthen good governance and the rule of law, and take forward the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

"This year's theme, 'Information as a Public Good' responds to the COVID-19 global pandemic, recognizing that with information which is freely distributed and received, families and communities can be guided and saved," said Swan.

Somalia remains one of the most dangerous places in the world for journalists with dozens having been killed, maimed or forced to leave the country since the outbreak of the civil war in 1991. Enditem
Hundreds of pages comparing House and Senate versions of the omnibus supplemental budget bill come down to a $453.5 million difference in bottom lines. While the House is proposing just under $3.2 million in net supplemental spending for the biennium, the Senate proposal would spend an additional $456.7 million, just short of Gov. Mark Daytons $494.5 million proposal.

With joint budget targets yet to be established, Mondays first meeting of the conference committee on HF2749 consisted of little discussion as nonpartisan fiscal analysts walked conferees through the broadband, education and health and human services differences between the House and Senate versions of the bill.

Conferees met late Monday evening to go over more items, and are scheduled to meet again at 11 a.m. or at the call of the chair Tuesday in the Minnesota Senate Building.

Let the talks begin

The Senate proposal would increase spending across the board, but under the House proposal, spending would increase only in the areas of environment, transportation and jobs and energy. The House set budget targets of zero for education, higher education and health and human services, and called for budget reductions in agriculture, public safety and state government.

Rep. Jim Knoblach (R-St. Cloud) and Sen. Richard Cohen (DFL-St. Paul) co-chair the conference committee. Other conferees are Reps. Matt Dean (R-Dellwood), Pat Garofalo (R-Farmington), Jenifer Loon (R-Eden Prairie) and Denny McNamara (R-Hastings); and Sens. Michelle Fischbach (R-Paynesville), Tony Lourey (DFL-Kerrick), Tom Saxhaug (DFL-Grand Rapids) and Chuck Wiger (DFL-Maplewood).

Also sitting on the Senate side of the table was Sen. Bobby Joe Champion (DFL-Mpls), who Cohen said would serve as an adjunct member of the committee along with Sen. Jeff Hayden (DFL-Mpls). Champion and Hayden co-chair the Senate Finance Committees Subcommittee on Equity, and the Senates version of the supplemental budget bill contains a separate equity article proposing $87 million in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2017, primarily in the areas of economic and workforce development and education.

According to the Office of the Revisor of Statutes side-by-side comparison, comparable equity funding in the House budget totals about $7.5 million.

Heres a look at some of the differences between the House and Senate:

Bigger broadband budget

One major difference between the House and Senate supplemental budget bill comes via how to pay for the Border-to-Border Broadband Plan.

Conference Committee on HF2749 (Omnibus Supplemental Finance bill) - part 1 5/9/16

The often-debated House version seeks a $15 million appropriation in Fiscal Year 2017 and $25 million in Fiscal Year 2018 to fund the program.

As one-time appropriations, funds would work to provide high-speed Internet access to Greater Minnesota by furthering availability, testing accuracy and deploying development.

The program would be required to reach underserved areas whose households or businesses lack access to wire-line broadband service at speeds greater than 10-20 megabits per second download and three megabits per second upload, as well as unserved areas at speeds greater than or equal to 10 megabits per second download, and three megabits per second upload.

Dayton has requested $100 million in his supplemental budget to expand broadband funding.

The Senate version comes much closer to meeting that request, while also adding more speed and additional goals.

That bodys proposal would appropriate $85 million in Fiscal Year 2017 for the employment and economic development of the program, while also upping the ante in terms of speed, requiring the program to service underserved areas at speeds of at least 100 megabits per second download, and at least 20 megabits per second upload. Unserved areas would be serviced with speeds of at least 25 megabits per second download, and at least three megabits per second upload.

The Senate version also adds measureable goals for the program to reach, including all Minnesota businesses and homes having access to broadband at a minimum of 25 megabits per second download, and three megabits per second upload by 2022. The goal jumps to 100 megabits download, and 20 megabits upload by 2026.

E-12 Education

Both the House and Senate E-12 education proposals would leverage about $52 million in anticipated savings from allowing school districts to repay their capital loans early. The House would also cancel a $2 million appropriation for Regional Centers of Excellence. The Senate proposal would spend an additional $48 million over the House proposal, including $25 million to establish a voluntary prekindergarten program, one of the governors education priorities this session.

Both the House and Senate proposals would fund several programs to address teacher workforce shortages. Major spending differences in the House and Senate budget proposals include the following:

the House would spend $7.7 million to extend equity funding to non-metro districts, the Senate zero;

the House would spend $5 million on school-linked mental health grants, the Senate zero;

the House would spend $7 million in broadband innovation grants, the Senate zero;

the Senate would spend $13 million for Support Our Students grants for districts to hire counselors and other support staff, the House zero; and

the Senate would spend an additional $9.4 million  the House $240,000  on teacher professional development through the alternative compensation Q-Comp program, and $10 million on teacher development and education for districts not part of Q-Comp.

Higher Education

The House proposal contains no net higher education spending, while the Senate is proposing $47.7 million. The House version contains policy provisions creating additional oversight of two types of research at the University of Minnesota: research using fetal tissue and psychiatric drug trials involving human subjects. (See the side-by-side comparison)

Additional funding proposed by the Senate, but not the House, includes the following:

$14.3 million for programs to close gaps in postsecondary attainment;

$13 million for tuition relief for University of Minnesota students;

$10 million to Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system for campus program support; and

$5 million for health restoration activities at the university. (See the spreadsheet)

Health and Human Services

The health and human services provisions in the respective omnibus bills have fundamental differences between their major spending and policy items.

The House bill seeks to keep total health and human services appropriations flat. The bill would pay for new spending items by shifting MNsure appropriations  $20 million in Fiscal Year 2017 and $40 million in the subsequent biennium  before completely repealing the program and shifting enrollees onto the federal program in 2017.

It would also implement a variety of new regulations for facilities that perform abortions and prohibit these facilities from being eligible for funds under certain federal family planning grants and state sponsored health care systems. The Senate bill doesnt contain any of these provisions.

The Senate bill would increase total appropriations by $50.7 million in Fiscal Year 2017 and $140 million in the subsequent biennium. Instead of repealing MNsure, it would increase funding to the program across a wide variety of items aimed at addressing issues with the program.

It also contains smaller versions of items included in Gov. Daytons supplemental budget proposal, although most of his biggest spending items were not included.

Notable Senate spending items not included in the House bill include:

$18 million in Fiscal Year 2017 and $40 million for the subsequent biennium to comply with the U.S. Department of Labor Home Care Worker Final Rule, which provides overtime pay for home workers after 40 hours per week. The item, which was included in Daytons budget, increases funding for related reimbursement programs;

$8.8 million in Fiscal Year 2017 and $25.9 million for the subsequent biennium for a 15 percent increase to the Northstar Care for Children basic monthly reimbursement rates;

$8 million in Fiscal Year 2017 and $40 million for the subsequent biennium for a 7 percent increase to the child care provider reimbursement rates; and

$350,000 in Fiscal Year 2017 and $102 million for the subsequent biennium for increasing the MinnesotaCare income eligibility to 275 percent of the federal poverty guidelines. The item was include in Daytons budget.

Both bills contain a slate of items aimed at integrating mental health and chemical dependency treatments in the state.

House Public Information Services writers Nick Longworth and Josh Moniz contributed to this story
Saturday, the United States marked a milestone of vaccinating more than 100,000,000 people with their COVID shot.

While the weather was the perfect start to the historic day, hundreds of people went downtown to celebrate Cinco de Mayo in a safe and fun way.

"Personally, I've been energized by the presence of the crowd. Feeding over their energy gives us the energy to play more music and keep the party hot," said Arthur Martin.

That was actually the DJ who says Saturday was more than what he expected.

Especially after such a hard summer of not being able to entertain.

WAAY-31 spoke with him and La Esquina Cocina's owners on why it was so important for them and customers.

The restaurant owners say they know people are ready to be out and about with friends and family and they wanted to offer an outdoor event to do just that.

Holmes Avenue was shut down for 4 hours to host an outdoor block party where you could social distance on your own, while still having fun.

There were drinks, live musicians and an all around good time on Holmes Avenue Saturday evening.

La Esquina Cocina hosted a block party and shut Holmes Avenue down

Their decision to do this was because they say more people are getting vaccinated and it's time for some safe fun.

"That anxiety really took people to a different place. So we're for whatever makes people comfortable. We want people to enjoy our place, enjoy our wonderful food and our staff," said Megan Garcia.

Megan Garcia is the co-owner of the Mexican restaurant and she said the results were more than she could have imagined.

People were happy and laughing and some say it even felt like old times, before COVID.

"People were getting real disappointed and now we can appreciate life," said Charles Reagan.

Alabama still has a way to go in vaccinating people across the board but because of the efforts made, it allows for more people to gather safely outdoors.

The CDC is optimistic about the nation fully reopening by or around July 1st.

With Saturday's early Cinco de Mayo celebration it showed DJ, Arthur Martin there is light at the end of the tunnel.

"Keep on moving back to life. We've been down but not knocked out and we're coming back to life," he said.

The Garcias told us this is just the start to hopefully more outdoor events and festivals, and they say they it felt good to see everyone enjoying themselves and feeling comfortable.

"This is such a big celebration. We missed out on a few other holidays like st. Patrick's Day and Mardi Gras so it's really good to see everybody coming out and celebrating Cinco de Mayo," said Megan.

All of this will happen again on Wednesday night.

Masks are still encouraged while inside and per the latest CDC guidelines, outside as well if you're not fully vaccinated.
When you think of Tang -- if you think of Tang at all -- you probably think of its association with the United States space program in the 1960s.

After all, "Tang was chosen for the Gemini astronauts," as a 1966 advertisement for the classic orange drink stated. Gemini was NASA's second human spaceflight mission in the lead-up to the moon landing.

The beverage always will be connected to the golden era of midcentury space exploration, but NASA actually did not invent Tang.

Tang debuted in 1957 as a vitamin C-packed breakfast drink. Its selling point was that the powdered mix was shelf-stable, and it was promoted as a healthier and more convenient alternative to fresh orange juice. (And while it certainly may be more convenient than juicing oranges to order every morning, the first two items on Tang's ingredient list are sugar and fructose.)

But General Foods, Tang's original parent company, had contracts with the military for producing rations and other food items, such as instant coffee. ("Mad Men" fans will be pleased to know that General Foods, later incorporated into Kraft Foods, also owned the Burger Chef brand from 1968 to 1982.)

Thanks to these connections and the aforementioned shelf-stable, "just add water" capability of Tang, NASA sent the drink mix into space with John Glenn on his famous orbit of Earth in 1962.

General Foods' advertising strategy shifted to capitalize on the popularity of all things outer space, and Tang henceforth became marketed as the astronaut's drink of choice, as seen in this collection of Tang advertisements through the decades.

But Tang isn't just a space age relic. It's still popular across the globe, from South America to Asia, and produced in a number of flavors -- including pineapple, mango, lemon, calamansi and its newest Filipino flavor, Coco Plus Buko Pandan. Tang is also one of the most popular drinks during Ramadan in the Middle East, according to Mondelez International, the food corporation that now owns the brand.

Not only that, but home cooks around the world have been showing their ingenuity by using Tang in dishes that go far beyond a simple stir-it-up breakfast drink.

Whether you're jonesing for a blast from the past or looking for something new to experiment with, grab a canister of Tang and make these fun and slightly retro recipes.

Tang Creamsicle pie

This nostalgic dessert has graced the tables of many a church potluck and community picnic since the 1960s, and its retro charm endures. The sweet throwback is one of those no-bake recipes familiar to anyone who grew up reading recipes off the back of a box.

The formula here is simple: Beat together Tang mix, cream cheese, condensed milk and whipped topping until fluffy, then chill in a graham cracker crust. Spoon on even more whipped topping to take it over the top.

Make a semi-homemade Creamsicle pie this summer for a refreshing treat  vintage apron optional.

Frothy Tang orange drink

For an Orange Julius-style drink that will take you back to the '80s, trust the guys from Big Gay Ice Cream to come through with a cool and frothy Tang-infused milkshake that hits the spot. You'll be transported to your favorite mall food court with just a sip; better grab a hot pretzel for the full effect.

Want to make this drink into a cocktail? Just blend in 2 tablespoons white rum or orange-flavored vodka per serving.

Takeout-style orange chicken

Believe it or not, a Tang-boosted version of chicken in orange sauce is one of the official recipes promoted by Tang Pakistan. The addition of the fruity drink actually makes sense for this sauce, enhancing the sweet and sticky aspects that make the dish a Chinese American classic.

When you're craving those crunchy coated bites, you can make the Tang-approved recipe or simply replace the orange juice in your favorite copycat takeout orange chicken recipe with Tang.

Tang ice pops

If there is one technological innovation that makes families' lives better every summer, it's the humble yet life-changing ice pop mold, which lets us create any flavor of fruity treats imaginable.

Stir up a pitcher of Tang and pour into any style of mold that fits your fancy. Traditional bomb pop or double stick-style molds, silicone squeeze molds, or push-up pop molds will all do the trick.

If you'd like to add fresh fruit like chopped peaches, sliced strawberries or whole blueberries to your pops, fill the molds with fruit and then pour the liquid in. For a creamier treat, blend Tang with vanilla or coconut Greek yogurt before pouring.

Tang and lemon ice cream

No ice cream maker? No problem! This recipe for lemon and orange Tang ice cream uses a simplified method called semifreddo, Italian for "half-cold." By making an easy egg-free custard, then partially freezing, blending, then freezing again, the ice cream results in a soft and mousselike texture.

If you love the flavor of orange sherbet but the consistency of soft-serve custard, this might be your ideal dessert.

Friendship tea

Probably the most well-known Tang recipe, this hot beverage is another one of those community cookbook staples. It's also frequently referred to as Russian tea, but it bears little resemblance to the strong tea served with lemon and sugar that was the drink's original inspiration.

Instead, this citrusy sweet tea mix has become an American standard. The proportions change from recipe to recipe, but standard ingredients include instant tea powder, lemonade powder, Tang, and frequently cinnamon, cloves and/or nutmeg for extra spice.

Make a jar of homemade tea blend to keep in your pantry for chilly days.

There's even Tang beer

Magnify Brewing in Fairfield, New Jersey, created a beer brewed with Tang as one of its limited-edition releases in April. Big Pulp, a smoothie sour-style beer, also features real mango, pineapple and peach in its ingredient lineup. The vibrant color and juicy flavor are deceptively reminiscent of the tropical orange drinks of the 1980s and '90s, making this a grown-up version of an after-school treat.

As these recipes prove, Tang is an enduringly popular ingredient in kitchens around the world. Even after all these years, Tang remains, to quote another vintage ad, "for spacemen and earth families."
The Washington Post, The New York Times, and NBC News on Saturday issued significant corrections, retracting earlier reporting that said Rudy Giuliani had been directly warned by the FBI that he was the target of a Russian disinformation campaign.

The stories came out after Giuliani's office and residence were raided by the FBI on Thursday. The searches were linked to a criminal probe of the former mayor's business dealings in Ukraine and resulted in the seizure of several communications devices.

"An earlier version of this story, published Thursday, incorrectly reported that One America News was warned by the FBI that it was the target of a Russian influence operation," read the correction by The Post, which first reported the news. "That version also said the FBI had provided a similar warning to Rudolph W. Giuliani, which he has since disputed."

"This version has been corrected to remove assertions that OAN and Giuliani received the warnings," the correction added.

The Times, which said it has confirmed The Post's reporting, also corrected its story.

"An earlier version of this article misstated whether Rudolph W. Giuliani received a formal warning from the F.B.I. about Russian disinformation," The Times said in its correction posted at the bottom of the online story. "Mr. Giuliani did not receive such a so-called defensive briefing."

All the original reports were attributed to anonymous sources.

NBC News said in its correction that its story "was based on a source familiar with the matter, but a second source now says the briefing was only prepared for Giuliani and not delivered to him, in part over concerns it might complicate the criminal investigation of Giuliani."

NBC said that "as a result" the "premise and headline" of its story had been "changed to reflect the corrected information."

The corrections are black eyes to the newsrooms which have aggressively reported on Giuliani's contacts with Ukrainians in his attempts to dig up dirt on then-presidential candidate Joe Biden.
UPDATE: The warning was allowed to expire early about 11:55 p.m. Sunday.

From earlier:

The National Weather Service in Huntsville Alabama has issued a

Tornado Warning for... South central Lauderdale County in northwestern Alabama... Colbert County in northwestern Alabama...

Until midnight CDT.

At 1128 PM CDT, a tornado producing storm was located 10 miles south of Cherokee, or 12 miles east of Tishomingo State Park, moving northeast at 40 mph.

HAZARD...Damaging tornado.

SOURCE...Radar confirmed tornado.

IMPACT...Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without shelter. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed. Damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles will occur. Tree damage is likely.

Locations impacted include... Florence, Muscle Shoals, Sheffield, Tuscumbia, Cherokee, Underwood-Petersville, Posey Loop, Srygley Church, New Bethel and Oakland.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

To repeat, a tornado is on the ground. TAKE COVER NOW! Move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Avoid windows. If you are outdoors, in a mobile home, or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris.
Decatur, IL (62521)

Today

Cloudy early with scattered thunderstorms developing this afternoon. High around 85F. Winds E at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%..

Tonight

Some clouds. Low 69F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 21:18:42|Editor: huaxia

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CAPE TOWN, May 3 (Xinhua) -- The official opposition of South Africa, the Democratic Alliance (DA), said on Monday that it will hold a virtual rally, the first one ever in the country, on May 22, in the run-up to local government elections.

Thousands of DA supporters "from the length and breadth will get together virtually and pledge their support for the DA's vision of change for South Africa," DA leader John Steenhuisen said in a video announcement on the party's social media platforms.

Steenhuisen, in what the party called "a special announcement," said the DA calls for the change for every South African, regardless of one's color, language, religious belief, and it wants to bring changes to the aspects of unity, rule of law, economy and state capability.

He invited others to join the "Time for Change" rally, which will be livestreamed on the party's social media platforms, urging those who don't accept the status quo to sign the pledge of the DA on a dedicated website.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced in April that balloting will take place on Oct. 27 for voters to elect leadership at metropolitan, district and local levels.

The DA, the second largest political party in the "Rainbow Nation," governs Western Cape Province and 27 municipalities, including the country's legislative capital, Cape Town. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 22:22:42|Editor: huaxia

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JOHANNESBURG, May 3 (Xinhua) -- The media plays a critical role in disseminating information, countering fake news particularly during the COVID-19, said Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) Director General Phumla Williams.

Williams made the remarks while commemorating World Press Freedom Day Monday.

She said increasing fake news has negative impact on individuals, the public and democracy.

"In an era of instant information sharing, as well as the COVID-19 pandemic, the need for trustworthy and fact checked news for public good is crucial. The GCIS welcomes its regular interactions with the media through platforms that cater for strengthening relationships while also allowing us to speak about the work of government and to share our successes and challenges," said Williams, thanking the media for spreading information about the state of national preparedness, precautionary and educative measures to be taken and general information about the pandemic.

She said the government remembers journalists who died while performing their duties and is committed to upholding press freedom.

The South African National Editors' Forum (SANEF) Secretary General Mahlatse Mahlase said: "SANEF believes journalists have played a significant role for the public good especially under the COVID-19 pandemic. We will continue to campaign for media that is ethical and truthful at our upcoming Ethics conference later this month."

The World Press Freedom Day falls on May 3 when the world recognizes the importance of press freedom. Enditem
WATCH NOW: Northwest Indiana awarded $11.1M in state grants for local road projects

Plenty more orange barrels soon will be popping up on highways and streets across Northwest Indiana.

State officials last week announced localities in Lake, Porter, LaPorte, Newton and Jasper counties are receiving approximately $11.1 million of the $100 million in state funds awarded to county and municipal road projects in the latest round of Community Crossings grants.

Gov. Eric Holcomb and Joe McGuinness, commissioner of the Indiana Department of Transportation, announced the awards that pay 50% of the project cost in larger communities, and 75% in smaller ones.

Altogether, 218 Indiana cities, towns and counties received a grant.

"Superior transportation infrastructure  from interstates to local roads and everything connecting in between  make our communities safer attractive places to do business and create jobs," Holcomb said.

WATCH NOW: Road work continues through difficult year

"Thriving communities, in turn, provide exceptional places for Hoosiers to call home and raise families. With that in mind, Im so pleased to invest and partner with local leaders to deliver on high-priority projects that keep Indiana moving forward."

Since 2016, the Community Crossings initiative has provided more than $931 million in state matching funds for local construction projects.

Localities submitted applications for funding during a highly competitive call for projects in January. Applications were evaluated based on need and current conditions and impacts to safety and economic development.

"Community Crossings is a major asset to Indiana cities, towns and counties as they build and modernize local roads and bridges," McGuinness said.

"The states funding partnership allows local partners to tackle larger scale projects more quickly than would otherwise be possible, maximize their resources to complete more projects and achieve the best possible value for Hoosiers."

Support Local Journalism Now, more than ever, the world needs trustworthy reportingbut good journalism isnt free. Please support us by making a contribution. Contribute

The awards in Northwest Indiana communities went to:

Burns Harbor: $30,000

Cedar Lake: $101,474

Crown Point: $566,258

DeMotte: $1 million

Dyer: $674,568

East Chicago: $568,964

Griffith: $206,459

Highland: $500,000

Jasper County: $818,252

Kentland: $142,148

Long Beach: $326,766

Lowell: $1 million

Michigan City: $660,966

Munster: $98,447

Portage: $1 million

Porter: $47,875

Porter County: $1 million

Schererville: $412,678

Town Of Pines: $41,280

Valparaiso: $1 million

Whiting: $404,828

Winfield: $535,283

State Rep. Jim Pressel, R-Rolling Prairie, chairman of the House Roads and Transportation Committee, said the biannual Community Crossings grants not only improve Indiana's infrastructure, they also bolster the state's economy.

WATCH NOW: Riding Shotgun with NWI Cops: Justin Dyer preview

"As the Crossroads of America we have to maintain and improve our roads and bridges, and this grant program helps communities complete local projects much more quickly," Pressel said.

At the same time, state Rep. Julie Olthoff, R-Crown Point, observed the reduced matching funds required of smaller communities ensure all Hoosiers benefit from the program.

"This program is a great example of how the state and locals can come together to make a positive difference on our infrastructure," Olthoff said.

State Sen. Ed Charbonneau, R-Valparaiso, said Community Crossings funding is more essential than ever for local Indiana communities amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

"I look forward to seeing the positive impact these infrastructure projects will have here at home and throughout our state," Charbonneau said.

A list of all communities receiving matching funds in the January 2021 call for projects is available online at: in.gov/indot /communitycrossings.

COVID-19: Hoosiers We've Lost
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-04 02:41:43|Editor: huaxia

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LAMU, Kenya, May 3 (Xinhua) -- Two people were killed and one critically wounded after a vehicle they were travelling in ran over an explosive device suspected to have been planted by al-Shabab militants along the Kenya-Somalia border on Monday.

Lamu County Commissioner Irungu Macharia confirmed the incident, saying three occupants, who work for a private contractor at the Kenya-Somalia security border wall construction site, dubbed Usalama camp, were in the vehicle at the time of the incident.

"Two people died in the incident while one was injured. We strongly believe the improvised explosive device(IED) was planted by al-Shabab militants. Our security forces are currently pursuing them," the government official said.

The attack took place a few kilometers from Ishakani village in Kenya's coastal county of Lamu, just next to the border with Somalia.

This latest attack came barely a month after a water bowser heading to the Usalama camp ran over an IED believed to have been planted by al-Shabab militants, killing one person on March 23.

In 2015, Kenya began the construction of a 700-kilometre-long wall, dubbed the Kenya-Somalia border securitization project, to secure the country from attacks by the Somalia-based al-Shabab terrorists. The project plan includes having designated immigration and custom entry points with a two-feet-tall concrete wall fitted with CCTV cameras. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 10:55:42|Editor: huaxia

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WELLINGTON, May 3 (Xinhua) -- New Zealand reported four cases of COVID-19 in managed isolation and no new cases of COVID-19 in the community on Monday.

The newly imported cases came from Pakistan, India, the Philippines and Indonesia. They have remained in isolation and quarantine facilities in Auckland and Christchurch, according to the Ministry of Health.

Three previously reported cases have now recovered. The total number of active cases in New Zealand is 25, and the total number of confirmed cases is 2,266, said a ministry statement. Enditem
Washington, IN (47501)

Today

Showers this morning then scattered thunderstorms developing during the afternoon hours. High near 80F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms early, then partly cloudy after midnight. Low 69F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%.
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Bill and Melinda Gates said on Monday (US time) that they were divorcing after 27 years of marriage.

After a great deal of thought and a lot of work on our relationship, we have made the decision to end our marriage, the two said in a statement posted on Twitter. We have raised three incredible children and built a foundation that works all over the world to enable all people to lead healthy, productive lives.

Melinda and Bill Gates have been married for 27 years. Credit:Getty Images

At stake is one of the worlds greatest fortunes - currently valued at $US145.8 billion ($187.9 billion), according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index - and one of the largest philanthropy operations on the planet. The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has given away more than $US50 billion, contributing to the fight against COVID-19, leading the charge on climate change and advocating for womens rights.

Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, 65, is the worlds fourth-richest person. Melinda Gates, 56, is a former Microsoft manager whos become an outspoken advocate on global health and equality for women in her role co-running the foundation.
Uber Eats was a key driver of earnings after the coronavirus hit the technology companys transport offering hard. Credit:Attila Csaszar She points to Ubers premium tier dubbed Uber Comfort, Ubers rider rating cap which blocks users with bad ratings from using the platform and its delivery option Uber Connect which all originated in Australia. Uber Connect was created in the depths of the coronavirus pandemic and is something Anderson is particularly proud of after the transport side of the companys business dried up overnight and Uber had to quickly diversify beyond its food delivery offerings. Anderson describes the pandemic as extremely difficult for the company but says it has proven Ubers resilience and it is now playing in a much broader space. If you need to go somewhere, if you need to get something, we are working to try and make sure theres solutions that are both for consumers as well as this really growing enterprise space where were seeing a lot of demand and an appetite for us to operate, Anderson says.

The tech giant ditched its more ambitious offerings such as its self driving cars program and its flying taxis through Uber Air which Melbourne was initially touted as a hub for. We did a lot of work over the last 12 months really thinking about where do we focus resources, Anderson says. It is really focusing on mobility, focusing on the delivery aspects to the core capabilities, but actually I think we are innovating as much as we ever have. Loading Ubers most recent financial results show losses of $US6.77 billion ($8.74 billion) for 2020 with the company continuing to lose around $US1 billion a quarter with revenue driven mainly by Uber Eats as its transport business slowly recovers. Now Anderson is taking on her biggest challenge yet getting ready to move to San Francisco as the global head of the tech giants Uber for Business operations.

Uber for Business is a significant arm for Uber and is in growth compared to 2019 with Uber reporting in its February results that its bookings grew roughly 45 per cent for the most recent quarter. Were back growing even over a two year period and partly that is we are seeing that shift in mindset around business yes theres business travel, but also the other business solutions that has really kind of helped drive that growth, Anderson says. From my perspective I think thats really exciting and interesting to see how that plays out. Anderson sees potential for more growth in business customers ordering food through Uber Eats when travelling and corporates packaging Ubers products like insurance companies offering Ubers when cars are being serviced or Sky TV in the UK offering gift cards to tie television programs to food delivery. Oxford educated and with a background as a consultant for Bain, Anderson is described by her peers as super smart. Former Uber colleague Amy Kunrojpanya who is now vice president of communications for Netflix for the Asia Pacific region says Anderson is a prolific organisation builder who is tough but fair.

I think she has the ability to also build a vision that people rally around very easily and immediately, she says. The pursuit of excellence means that you do have to be very clear about what youre looking for, and also clear about when things dont hit the mark. The new role also puts Anderson in Khosrowshahis inner circle and signals a role for her as a potential successor. Its not lost on Kunrojpanya that Uber for Business is an incredibly important part of Ubers portfolio. Susan has the ability to go in whatever direction she wants from here and being given a global portfolio I think is a great vote of confidence in what she can bring, she says. For her part, Anderson is excited about the challenge ahead once she overcomes the logistics of relocating her family in the midst of a pandemic.
The ramifications of a concentrated West Australian media landscape were laid bare last week with a former editor in chief of the states only daily newspaper forced to apologise to his old boss over public comments about his closeness to the WA government.

Bob Cronin, the former editor in chief of The West Australian and an Australian news veteran, was apparently threatened with legal action after the comments went to air in an interview with 6PRs Steve Mills on Tuesday, April 27, and apologised to Mr Stokes on Mills show the following Friday afternoon.

Seven West Media chairman Kerry Stokes. Credit:Philip Gostelow

Mr Cronin collectively spent 15 years editing The West Australian from the late 1980s, including a recent stint from 2008 to 2016 after the Seven West Media chairman took ownership of the paper.

He was also Mr Stokes right-hand man in China, heading up his Shanghai Daily Press media interests from 2003 to 2008 and has held senior positions at newspapers across the country including the Courier Mail in Queensland and the Daily Mirror in Sydney.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 12:56:10|Editor: Yurou

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Former Prime Minister of New Zealand Helen Clark delivers a speech at the China Business Summit 2021 in Auckland, New Zealand, May 3, 2021. The China Business Summit 2021 highlighted the importance of China-New Zealand relations and cooperation on Monday. (Xinhua/Guo Lei)

AUCKLAND, New Zealand, May 3 (Xinhua) -- The China Business Summit 2021 highlighted the importance of China-New Zealand relations and cooperation on Monday.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern delivered her keynote speech on New Zealand-China relations and her government's China policy by reiterating the importance of the bilateral relations.

"New Zealand's relationship with China is one of our most significant. Our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership continues to provide a strong foundation for the relationship. And we remain committed to our 'one-China' policy," said Ardern.

"Trade in goods between our two countries has remained resilient despite the challenges of COVID-19, with overall exports remained strong. Two-way trade flows are now well in excess of 30 billion New Zealand dollars per year," said Ardern.

Ardern also mentioned seeking common grounds on some important issues in the bilateral relations.

"Given our two countries' different histories, world views and political and legal systems, New Zealand and China are going to take different perspectives on some important issues. We will continue to work through these in a consistent manner, as we have always done," said Ardern.

As the host of APEC in 2021, Ardern believed that New Zealand has a unique opportunity as the chair, to play a role in shaping the future of the Asia-Pacific.

"We look forward to working closely with China and our other APEC partners to realise our aspiration for an open, dynamic, resilient and peaceful Asia-Pacific community by 2040, and I look forward to my discussions with President Xi in APEC later this year," said Ardern.

Looking ahead, Ardern said that next year will be the fiftieth anniversary of diplomatic relations between New Zealand and China.

"Relations between the peoples of our two countries stretch back much further in history, but fifty years of official recognition and cooperation is an achievement we'll all want to celebrate," said Ardern.

Chinese Ambassador to New Zealand Wu Xi also delivered her keynote speech on China-New Zealand relations at the summit.

"Thanks to concerted efforts by both sides, our relations have maintained healthy and stable development for a long time. We have offered each other invaluable support in fields such as pandemic prevention and economic revitalization, and maintained sound coordination and cooperation in international affairs," she said.

The protocol on upgrading the FTA will create new prospects for mutually beneficial cooperation, the Chinese ambassador said, adding that with the improvement of development quality and the scale of the Chinese economy, the two countries can actively explore and foster new growth drivers in health, aged care, education, e-commerce, climate change, science and technology and other fields.

"We have created many 'firsts' in our relations. Though we are different in social systems, stages of development and economic size, we have forged common ground and deepened beneficial cooperation. China is ready to work with New Zealand to push for greater development of the China-New Zealand comprehensive strategic partnership by upholding the spirit of 'striving to be the first'," said the ambassador.

New Zealand Minister for Trade and Export Growth Damien O'Connor talked about New Zealand's trade relations with China in his speech. He acknowledged the extraordinary success of New Zealand-China bilateral trade, propelled by the Free Trade Agreement the two countries signed in 2008.

"Ours is a trade relationship that is complementary, and from which both sides benefit," said O'Connor. "I am reaffirming the government's commitment to New Zealand's trade relationship with China, an important market for us."

Former Prime Minister John Key and Helen Clark attended the summit by delivering their respective keynote speeches and sat in panel discussion with Air New Zealand Chief Executive Greg Foran.

Keynote speeches were also delivered by business leaders, industrial representatives and academia from New Zealand and Australia.

The China Business Summit 2021 is the seventh annual summit on New Zealand-China relations organised by trade advocacy NZ Inc. and the Auckland Business Chamber. Enditem
A crew member of a foreign live exports carrier docked in Queensland who reportedly absconded on dry land and breached quarantine rules has handed himself in to police.

Queensland police on Monday morning confirmed the man had turned himself in at the Townsville police station on Sunday night after he disembarked the ship, Polaris 3, which was docked at the Port of Townsville.

The man disembarked the Polaris 3 carrier in Townsville and breached COVID-19 restrictions. Credit:Nine News

The ship arrived after a 17-day journey from Huanghua in China.

The crew member was reportedly a Pakistani national who was understood to be seeking asylum.
Queensland has unveiled a new regime to manage interstate COVID-19 outbreaks, in a step back from the total border shutdowns that have previously devastated businesses and led to travel chaos.

The new Interstate Exposure Venues Direction requires anyone who has been to a declared COVID-19 exposure site to immediately go into 14 days of quarantine in government-arranged accommodation.

Vehicles from NSW queue up at the Queensland border during 2020 border closures. Credit:Photo: Dan Peled

Rather than declaring entire cities or states as hotspots, the new direction targets specific venues, such as shopping centres and stores.

The order was first used on Sunday after a Perth hotel quarantine worker and two of his housemates tested positive to COVID-19.
Loading We struggle, every one of us. McKenzie said: I see people driving around in flash cars, houses, their childrens got a house, Toyotas, and we got nothing. Others had broader concerns. What was there to show for the years of mining revenues? Where were the permanent enhancements to their communities? Why, in particular, was there such secrecy around a trustee company  Rangelea Holdings Pty Ltd  which for years had been the cashbox for receiving and dispensing the mining royalties yet kept its books tightly closed against all outside scrutiny, even from ATLA members?

There was plenty to fuel suspicion. Rumours that there had been a referral to the police were rife. There had been years of complaints to the federal regulator, the Office of the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations (ORIC), which had removed all ATLAs 20-plus directors in March 2020 and installed special administrators whose terms had been extended for a second, then third time. Now the community was eager for answers as it gathered on Saturday, April 10, in a large indoor sporting facility at the Central Oval in Port Augusta.

It soon became apparent the administrators Bevan Mailman and Brian Bero, lawyers at Jaramer Legal, had made less progress than many had hoped. The paper trail theyd tried to follow was full of glaring holes. The administrators said some bank records were inaccessible. A forensic accountants report by KordaMentha, promised to be released to them, wasnt ready for circulation. There was no new board ready to install to hand back ATLA to the people, as the community had been promised. The draft resolution which would have broken Rangeleas tight grip on the mining revenues didnt even get put to a vote. The meeting ended in confusion and recriminations. The women were disconsolate. Where did the money go? We could get no answers at all, you know, and its not fair. Weve been waiting for answers for years and years, Ms Brady said later.

Adnyamathanha elder Tiger McKenzie said he had been let down again. How can we as members hold boards to account into the future if we cant get to the bottom of whats gone on? he said. ATLA and whats gone on should be a priority for a royal commission. The outcome of the meeting was a blow to ORIC as well. The regulator had mounted the high-profile intervention into ATLA in the hope of sending  as one insider familiar with the issues put it  shockwaves through the entire native title system nationally so that everyone else pays attention. Adnyamathanha elder Tiger McKenzie wants a royal commission to fix the mess. Credit:Tom Hancock ORICs role is to oversee the operations of some 3300 Indigenous organisations, which vary enormously in size and complexity. The top 500 had around $2 billion in annual revenue, according to the most recent estimates. Where native title interests intersect with mining interests, big money is at stake.

But with a staff of only 40 or so and a budget of $8 million  and few powers including an inability to issue fines for breaches of governance  ORIC is woefully under-resourced for its task, particularly when faced with the byzantine financial structures which lawyers, accountants and other advisers have erected around the scaffolding of native title. Selwyn Button is head of Indigenous regulator ORIC. Credit:Louise Kennerley In ATLAs case, for instance, the special administrators found they were grappling with at least 13 associated entities, some with overlapping sets of directors. ORIC chief Selwyn Button said when we had conversations with directors, they couldnt articulate how things were connected. They couldnt give us a clear understanding of where the revenue streams are flowing to each entity and why the revenue streams are flowing into different entities  [or] how ATLA interfaced with all those entities. In many instances across the country, professionals were doing better out of native title than the traditional owners themselves, Button charged, because of the complexity of native title structures.

After the unhappy experience of the April 10 meeting, Button placed a second administration team inside ATLA, which is now due to report at the end of June. An advisory committee has also been appointed, which ORIC hopes will become the nucleus of a new ATLA board. The task ahead remains daunting. Button said we havent found any wrongdoing[but] when we looked at the books, there was a lack of paperwork and a lack of a paper trail and a [lack of] transparency of decisions he said. There was limited information that would give us confidence  that ATLA was actually acting in the interests of its members. Investigators had also uncovered an intricate network of related entities and interests within the ATLA corporate structure, but it had been difficult to decipher from the limited paper trail why some of these entities were created or even how they came to be. Of these structures, Rangelea Holdings has been the hardest to penetrate.

Loading Even though its eight directors are Adnyamathanha  representing the eight original native title claimants  it has been set up as a private trustee company, meaning its financial records are beyond the reach and scrutiny of ORIC. Repeated demands from wider Adnyamathanha community members to see the books have fallen on deaf ears. The regulator may now be forced into court action to crack it open. Accountant and Adnyamathanha woman Sally Clark, who has campaigned for years to reform ATLA and is a member of the freshly appointed advisory committee, believes up to $40 million in mining revenues has passed through Rangelea since Heathgate began paying uranium royalties not long after the first mine opened in 2001. She fears tens of millions may have been squandered and nobody has been made accountable.

Button confirmed: we do know that its in the tens of millions of dollars thats gone through Rangelea. What we have seen so far is that there is very limited oversight of the activities of Rangelea over a long period of time. Adnyamathanha sources have described a system under which each of Rangeleas directors distribute royalty cheques twice yearly to their own agreed sub-groups, which range in size from 70 to more than 1000 people. Beyond that, little is known. Rangeleas legal firm, Townsends Solicitors in Adelaide, disputed the $40 million estimate but failed to supply an alternative figure. Contacted again on Friday, the firm said it had received no authority from directors to release further information. Mining company Heathgate also refused to comment, saying the amount paid is contractually confidential. One persistent charge levied by those who want ATLA radically reformed is that its fallen under the influence of a boys club centred on long-time former chair and CEO Vince Coulthard and his brother Terrence. Vince Coulthard has a high profile in South Australia, and has been feted by senior politicians at state and federal level. In 2015, the state government named him the Local Hero of the Year.

Vince Coulthard, former chair of the Adnyamathanha Traditional Lands Association (ATLA), says the regulator is racist. Credit:Lincoln Rothall He directs a radio station, is involved in tourism ventures and runs a consultancy business. Coulthard is also a director of Rangelea and raised eyebrows when he turned up at the April 10 meeting with a barrister, intent on blocking planned attempts to replace Rangelea as trustee. The administrators insisted the barrister leave. The administrators said there was evidence that some payments from ATLA entities to directors and other individuals have largely flowed to certain family groups. Excerpts from the KordaMentha forensic report seen by this masthead and 7.30, examining just seven Westpac bank accounts operated by ATLA and its charity arm, Cramond, between late 2012 and last year, revealed $1.3 million had been paid to unknown parties while a total of $1 million had been paid to directors and related parties.

Loading Of that $1 million, the report identified about $700,000 that had gone to the Coulthard family and its related entities  significantly more than several other family groups who were identified in the report. But Coulthard vigorously denies wrongdoing, saying you know they [Coulthards] are not necessarily connected. Its a name. He denied investigators findings of financial reports not filed, papers missing and transactions for which no record of a decision-making process exists. He insists any complaints about him and his family are fuelled by tall poppy syndrome and ATLA has been a very successful, transparent and well-run organisation which has delivered for its community.

Coulthard and his supporters have since stepped up a counterattack against ORIC accusing it of being racist and demanding there be a royal commission into the regulator itself. Theres a lot of mud slung at ATLA because people  [are] listening to dissident dissatisfied little people and I think thats wrong, Coulthard said, adding he had been unfairly demonised throughout the whole process. ORICs hopes for reform of the sector hang on the government response to a review of the Corporations (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander) Act, from which the regulator derives its powers. The recommendations highlight the need for increased transparency to improve Indigenous governance, particularly when it comes to the use of trusts. It also recommends expanded powers for ORIC  something Button welcomes. He believes native title should become more skewed towards establishing future funds, and investments to produce ongoing revenue streams.
Moscow: Officials hailed Moscows massive facial-recognition camera network as a benign aid to residents that would enforce quarantine restrictions, catch criminals and even let them pay subway fares. Now its being deployed to crush dissent against President Vladimir Putin.

Police tapped the surveillance system to identify and detain dozens of people who attended last weeks protests in the Russian capital in support of jailed Kremlin foe Alexey Navalny. More than 50 were picked up over the following days, including several journalists, according to OVD-Info, an independent human-rights monitoring group that gathers information on detentions.

A surveillance camera operates as the Spasskaya tower of the Kremlin stands beyond in Moscow, Russia. Credit:Bloomberg

Anna Borzenko, 65, was held overnight in a cell after going to police when she learned officers had been to her apartment seeking to question her. I was an experiment in the development of a total surveillance system, she said. This system will be more terrifying when it is established.

Use of the technology adds to risks facing Russians who voice opposition to Putin as the Kremlin embarks on the most far-reaching crackdown in years. With Navalny isolated in a prison outside Moscow, and physically weakened after a 24-day hunger strike, his supporters are facing relentless legal actions to prevent them from organising against the authorities.
The decision by Matovic, then the Slovakian prime minister, to order 2 million doses of Sputnik V set the country at odds with the European Union and brought one of Eastern Europes most stoutly pro-Western governments to the brink of collapse as junior partners in a fractious governing coalition, outraged by the import of Sputnik, defected. Loading Instead of plaudits, Matovic faced a revolt from his own ministers, who accused him of cutting a deal with Russia behind their backs, breaking ranks with the European bloc and succumbing to what his foreign minister, Ivan Korcok, described as a Russian tool of hybrid war that casts doubt on work with the European Union. I thought people would be thankful for my bringing Sputnik to Slovakia, Matovic recalled in a recent interview. Instead we got a political crisis, and I became an enemy of the people. Scepticism over Russias intentions with its vaccine runs deep across the former communist lands of East and Central Europe.

Prime Minister Ingrida Simonyte of Lithuania said in a tweet in February that Putin offered Sputnik V to the world as a weapon to divide and rule. And Poland said it was considering buying Chinese vaccines, despite similar concerns about it, but would definitely not order Sputnik V. Loading A recent survey by the Globsec research group found that, among those willing to be vaccinated, only 1 per cent of Poles and Romanians and 2 per cent of Lithuanians would choose Sputnik over American and European brands. Even in Hungary, the lone European Union member to start inoculating its citizens with Russias product, only 4 per cent want Sputnik V. But in Slovakia, around 15 per cent of those willing to be vaccinated expressed a preference for the Russian vaccine, offering Moscow an opportunity to break out of the quarantine imposed by deep suspicion elsewhere. That Russia targeted Slovakia as a place to widen Sputniks narrow beachhead in Europe was evident long before Matovic decided to order the vaccine.

Peter Koles, director of the Slovak Security Policy Institute, which tracks Russian disinformation, said this was clear from the shifting message pumped out by a plethora of anti-establishment media outlets in Slovakia that routinely reflect Russias take on the world and are sceptical of their own countrys pro-Western government. For most of last year, before anyone had even produced a vaccine, he said, those outlets railed against vaccination, promoting wild conspiracy theories about plans to inject nano-chips in people and create mutants. Suddenly, when Sputnik was announced by Putin, the narrative changed, Koles said. While still sceptical toward Western vaccines, the pro-Russian media shifted in lock-step from denouncing all vaccination to praising Sputnik V as Slovakias saviour. Loading Replay Replay video Play video Play video Andrej Danko, a former speaker of the Slovak parliament who is well known for his Russia-friendly views, posted a video on Facebook in January saying that he was ready to help broker a deal with Moscow for the delivery of Sputnik.

His pitch appealed to the generally Russia-friendly sentiments of many ordinary Slovaks, particularly those of an anti-establishment bent. Martin Smatana, a former Health Ministry official in Bratislava, said he had been amazed by how many of his friends want the Russian vaccine and say, Screw the system, use Sputnik. Matovic, prime minister at the time of Dankos appeal, said he was well aware that the Russian vaccine had not been authorised for use in Europe, but decided that the only rule in a pandemic is health and life. Viktor Orban, Hungarys prime minister, helped Slovakia reach out to Russia. Credit:Bloomberg Matovic said the idea of ordering Sputnik came to him after neighbouring Hungary purchased it. He said he contacted Hungarys prime minister, Viktor Orban, who helped him reach out to Russia, which was eager to cut a deal.

When Matovic took the idea of importing Sputnik to his Cabinet in February he was told to wait until the European Medicines Agency gave a green light. He pressed on regardless, deciding that while the government as a whole had to follow European rules, his health minister, who has since resigned, had the right to order Sputnik to meet a health emergency. Martin Klus, secretary of state at the foreign ministry, said he heard about the delivery only a couple of hours before it arrived. Sputnik is a vaccine that saves lives, but the problem is: How did it get to Slovakia? he said in an interview. Slovakias Prime Minister Igor Matovic, centre, arrives for the cabinet session in Bratislava, in March. Credit:AP The uproar after Sputniks arrival was fast and furious. To keep his fragile coalition government afloat, Matovic agreed on March 30 to step down as leader and trade jobs with his finance minister, a humiliating demotion.

Russia, Klus said, might not have intended to topple the government but, after years of trying to break European unity over sanctions imposed after the Russian annexation of Crimea in 2014, to collapse the government would be a very successful story for them. In a report this past week, the European Unions foreign service said that Russias drive to promote Sputnik abroad was aimed at sowing distrust in Europes medicines regulator and stoking divisions. Loading In response, the Russian state investment agency spearheading Sputniks export drive lamented that the vaccine, which it hails as a vaccine for all mankind, has fallen victim to unfortunate daily information attacks. On Friday, after Brazil raised concerns about Sputnik, complaining of inadequate data, the vaccines developer in Moscow, the Gamaleya Institute, issued an angry statement complaining that unethical forces continuously attack the Sputnik V vaccine for competitive and political reasons.

The testy arguments in Slovakia over the vaccine reached a peak in April when the countrys drug regulatory agency claimed that Matovic had fallen for a Russian bait-and-switch. It said the vaccine doses sent to Slovakia at a cost of around $US2 million differed from the Sputnik V reviewed favourably in a peer-reviewed February article in The Lancet, a respected British medical journal. The Slovak claim, denounced by Moscow as sabotage, cast doubt on Sputniks main selling point: a proven efficacy rate of over 90 per cent against COVID-19. The Lancet gave the vaccine 91.6% efficacy in February, and Russian scientists have since claimed a real world rate 97.6%. But the main issue with Sputnik has never been whether it works  most experts believe it does  but Russias repeated failure to follow procedure and provide all the data needed by foreign regulators to assess safety. Slovakias regulator made its damning statement not because it had discovered any specific problems with Sputnik but due to the lack of data from the manufacturer, inconsistencies in dosage forms and inability to compare the batches used in different studies and countries. The 200,000 doses that Russia delivered in March were still all unused at a pharmaceutical company in eastern Slovakia as of last week. But Matovic said Russia had already returned the money paid by Slovakia. Pavol Babos, a political analyst in Bratislava, said Matovic was never pro-Russian but very naive.

Desperate for a way to slow the pandemic and lift his own slumping ratings, the prime minister, Babos added, fell into a trap set by Russian propaganda. But Matovic scoffed at accusations that Moscow had played him to promote its own geopolitical agenda. The Russians, he said, wanted to help, but instead of thanking them we said, You are stupid, and you are cheating people around the world. Most at fault, Matovic said, was the State Institute for Drug Control, which asserted that the Sputnik V batches Russia sent to Slovakia did not have the same characteristics and properties as the version V reviewed by The Lancet. This, he said, was an extremely incorrect political statement. Zuzana Batova, the institutes director, who has received death threats from aggressive Sputnik fans, declined to be interviewed, saying she did not want to pour oil on the fire. The head of the Biomedical Research Centre, which carried out a series of 14 tests in Slovakia on the Russian vaccine, said she had no concerns over whether Sputnik V works but was troubled by Russias lack of transparency.
London: The Group of Seven western democracies aims to court new allies to counter challenges from China and Russia without holding Beijing down and while pursuing more stable ties with the Kremlin, two of its top diplomats said.

Ahead of the first in-person G7 foreign ministers meeting since 2019, US President Joe Bidens Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, sought to foster a message of multilateralism after four years of Twitter-diplomacy under Donald Trump variously shocked, bewildered and alarmed many Western allies.

British Foreign Secretary, Dominic Raab, right and US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, left, hold a joint press conference at Downing Street in London, England. Credit:Getty

Founded in 1975 as a forum for the Wests richest nations to discuss crises such as the OPEC oil embargo, the G7 this week is discussing China and Russia as well as battling the COVID-19 pandemic and the spread of climate change.

It is not our purpose to try to contain China or to hold China down, Blinken told reporters at a news conference alongside British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab.
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Mixed clouds and sun this morning. Scattered thunderstorms developing this afternoon. High 88F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%..

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Scattered thunderstorms early, then variable clouds overnight with more showers at times. Low 71F. Winds NW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 12:59:54|Editor: huaxia

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ULAN BATOR, May 3 (Xinhua) -- Mongolia's COVID-19 tally rose to 39,381 after 911 new locally transmitted cases were recorded over the past 24 hours, the country's National Center for Communicable Diseases (NCCD) said Monday.

Meanwhile, Mongolia registered two more deaths and 1,225 recoveries in the same period, bringing the respective national tallies to 128 and 22,932, said the NCCD.

The Asian country launched a national vaccination campaign against COVID-19 in late February with an aim to cover at least 60 percent of its population.

According to the country's health ministry, more than 947,500 people have been vaccinated against the virus. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 13:08:44|Editor: huaxia

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SEOUL, May 3 (Xinhua) -- An elderly South Korean woman, who was forced into sexual slavery for Japanese military brothels during World War II, has died at the age of 92, reducing the number of surviving victims in the country to 14, a civic group said Monday.

The woman, identified only with her surname Yoon, passed away at about 10:00 p.m. local time on Sunday in Seoul, according to the Korean Council for Justice and Remembrance for the Issues of Military Sexual Slavery by Japan, a civic group for the former sex slaves who are euphemistically called "the comfort women".

Yoon, born in North Chungcheong province in 1929, was dragged to Japan in 1941 after resisting Japanese soldiers who assaulted her grandfather.

She was forced to work at a textile company in Shimonoseki for about three years, before being taken to Hiroshima where she suffered from sexual slavery.

After the Korean Peninsula's liberation from the 1910-45 Japanese colonization, Yoon returned to South Korea's port city of Busan and lived for the rest of her life here with both her body and mind scarred badly, the advocacy group said.

She registered with the South Korean government as one of the wartime sex enslavement victims in 1993, and had since devoted herself to the cause of speaking for comfort women victims.

With her death, the number of surviving victims in South Korea dipped to 14 out of 240 officially registered with the government.

Historians say as many as 400,000 women from Asian countries were coerced, duped or kidnapped into sex slavery at Japanese military brothels before and during the Pacific War. Enditem
Reporter

I cover a range of stories for WDRB, but really enjoy tracking what's going on at our State Capitol. I grew up on military bases all over the world, but am a Kentuckian at heart. I'm an EKU alum, and have lived in Louisville for 30 years.
Bill Burt and George Bremer discuss the NFL schedule and Tom Brady's return to New England; Elton Hayes and Kevin Brockway reflect on Coach K's retirement; and Clay Horning breaks down the worst defensive play in baseball in recent memory.
Weber State Honors Inaugural Class of Doctoral Graduates

May 3, 2021

OGDEN, Utah  Weber State University, along with the Dumke College of Health Professions and the Annie Taylor Dee School of Nursing, celebrated the graduation of the first cohort of Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) students as part of the class of 2021 on May 1.

It is a privilege to be a part of this historical moment for the School of Nursing and WSU, said Sally Cantwell, School of Nursing chair and professor. Our faculty have been pivotal in ensuring our students have quality learning experiences and opportunities that have prepared them for the DNP leadership role. We are excited to watch them continue to make positive impacts in the workforce.

The DNP program offers two emphasis areas: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Leadership. The program provides education to all levels of nurses, with both masters-to-doctorate and bachelors-to-doctorate options. Students earn a clinical degree rather than a research-based doctorate.

The program currently has 25 students enrolled in the Post Masters to DNP program and 42 in the Post BSN to DNP-FNP.

The 12 students graduating from the Post Masters to DNP-Leadership program reflected on their time at Weber State since their journey began in fall 2019 when the program launched.

The DNP program has increased my confidence as a nurse, said Holly Wright. It refined my writing skills, taught me how to implement quality improvements and increased my ability and desire to improve the world around me.

Despite the challenges a pandemic presented, DNP students persevered through their program to complete their education.

We had already started working on our DNP quality improvement projects when COVID-19 changed everything, said Mindy Robert. It was amazing to see that none of us gave up. We all came up with creative solutions to implement our projects.

While in the program, students were challenged to expand on their previous knowledge of nursing to become effective leaders in the industry.

The DNP program improved our understanding of nursing science and theory, healthcare policy and interprofessional collaboration, said Catherine Harmston. We have been well prepared to engage in advocacy, develop new knowledge and improve healthcare in our communities.

Through research projects that aimed to improve the healthcare industry, the program helped students begin making changes in the workforce before they even graduated.

I am thrilled with the quality of education I received and the DNP project I was able to create, said Heather Clark. I was able to implement a sustainable change in my department that will impact nurses for years to come.

The DNP program also helped students improve their understanding of the complexities of the nursing industry to become better healthcare practitioners.

WSU has stretched my ability to understand the healthcare system and the interactivity of its many components, said Marie Blacker. I better understand the vast concept of population health and my role in facilitating improved health outcomes while limiting health disparities and inequalities.

While earning a DNP does not typically increase a nurses salary, many students feel the value of the knowledge and skills gained from their degrees outweigh the cost.

A DNP increases an important skill set of leading in evidence-based practice, public policy and management for improving health outcomes and health systems, said Megan Barney. It's been exciting to be a part of this new program and to interact with the faculty. I have learned a lot and stretched myself in new ways.

As they continue their nursing careers, graduates are looking forward to further utilizing the knowledge they have gained at WSU from their mentors and courses.

I am grateful for the wonderful mentors I have had through the DNP program and work, said Kristyn Steedley. I have already put to use many of the leadership skills we have learned in the DNP program and plan to use more as I help plan education programs for multiple hospitals.

Each graduate has grown throughout their time at WSU and expressed gratefulness for the people met along the way and the experiences they will cherish.

I have had many memorable moments this past year, said Emily Daines. Being a member of a cohort of an inaugural DNP program during a worldwide pandemic is not something I will soon forget. I will forever be grateful to the professors who have gracefully guided and encouraged me through this program.

For some, the DNP helped them continue growing even when they thought they had reached their full potential.

At 60 years old, one would think you would have reached full maturity, said Roxanne Butterfield. But I know I have reached a new level of maturity by being a student at Weber State. I am proud to say that I am a graduate of WSU.

For many students, earning their DNP degree marks the end of a long educational journey at WSU, with some graduates having earned all their nursing degrees at WSU.

My most memorable experience at Weber State was as an undergraduate student, said Emily Ostarcevic. My best friend and I attended the nursing program together and we would study and eat down at the Ada Lindquist Plaza. I have been lucky to have wonderful professors who have mentored me and pushed me to reach my potential.

Throughout it all, DNP students overcame obstacles, rose to the occasion and improved their skills, paving the way for future DNP students.

Weber State has always pushed me to be the best I can be, said Shane Archibald. I have been challenged, encouraged and inspired to keep going until its my turn to retire and pass the torch to the next generation.

For photos, visit this link.

Visit weber.edu/wsutoday for more news about Weber State University.
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Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 13:54:37|Editor: huaxia

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AUCKLAND, New Zealand, May 3 (Xinhua) -- New Zealand Minister for Trade and Export Growth Damien O'Connor on Monday expressed his expectation to see the bilateral FTA upgrade between New Zealand and China come into force soon.

Speaking at the China Business Summit 2021, O'Connor reiterated the importance of trade with China, and said that New Zealand's trade relationship with China is complementary and resilient, and both sides benefit from it.

"Although the advent of COVID-19 has disrupted so much, in fact our bilateral goods trade has held up pretty well. New Zealand exports by value were down less than 1 percent in 2020 when compared to 2019, itself a record year for our trade," said O'Connor.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, businesses in China and New Zealand have shown the adaptation and innovation, he said.

"In China, we have seen New Zealand businesses pivoting to e-commerce channels, as a way of ensuring their products get to their customers. And, in the absence of travel, we have seen a real investment by New Zealand businesses in maintaining their connection to market, through digital platforms, local business partners, or the government teams."

"It was excellent to see, for example, so many New Zealand companies participating in the China International Import Expo in Shanghai last November," said O'Connor.

Under the FTA upgrade, New Zealand and China will cooperate more closely in areas such as e-commerce, government procurement and environment protection, he added. Enditem
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Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 14:58:15|Editor: huaxia

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MAZAR-I-SHARIF, Afghanistan, May 3 (Xinhua) -- At least four militants have been confirmed dead and five others injured as fighting planes struck a Taliban hideout in Sholgara district of the northern Balkh province on Sunday, said an army statement released here Monday.

The sorties were conducted on Sunday evening in Bagh-e-Pahlawan area of the restive district and as a result four armed insurgents were killed on the spot and five others injured, the statement said.

Taliban outfit has yet to make comments.

Taliban militants, according to officials, have intensified activities since the announcement of the White House to start the withdrawal of the U.S.-led forces from Afghanistan on May 1. Enditem
HARRISBURG, Pa. - Monday, May 3rd is the last day to register to vote before the May 18th Primary Election. The deadline to apply for a mail ballot is one week away.

Voters have until 5 p.m. on May 11th to apply for a mail ballot through their county election board. Voted mail ballots must be received by the county election board by 8 p.m. on May 18th, Election Day.

Voters also can vote early in person by mail-in or absentee ballot at their county election office, once their countys ballots are available, until 5 p.m. on May 11th.

You can also vote in person at your polling place on Election Day. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on May 18th.

If you still need to register to vote you can register online and submit an application by 11:59 p.m. Monday, May 3rd. Traditional paper voter registration forms must be received in county voter registration offices by close of business.

Acting Secretary of State Veronica W. Degraffenreid announced Monday that more than 741,500 Pennsylvanians have applied for mail ballots so far.

This impressive number shows the popularity of no-excuse mail voting in the commonwealth, Secretary Degraffenreid said. Pennsylvanians have enthusiastically embraced this secure, convenient and accessible voting option.

Degraffenreid reports that s of Monday morning, 698,280 registered Pennsylvania voters have applied for a mail-in ballot and 43,602 voters have applied for an absentee ballot.

The bipartisan Act 77, enacted in late 2019, made no-excuse mail-in voting possible for the first time in Pennsylvania for the 2020 presidential primary. In the 2020 primary and general elections, Pennsylvanians cast a total of more than 4 million votes by mail.

The general election saw record turnout, with approximately 800,000 more qualified Pennsylvanians voting than in any prior election.

All registered voters, regardless of party affiliation, will be eligible to vote on four ballot questions. Three of the questions are proposed constitutional amendments, and the fourth question is a referendum on making municipal fire departments or companies with paid personnel and emergency medical services companies eligible for an existing state loan program.

In addition, all registered voters in the following four districts, regardless of party affiliation, will be voting in special elections to fill vacancies:

 22nd State Senate District (Lackawanna County and parts of Luzerne and Monroe counties)

 48th State Senate District (Lebanon County and parts of Dauphin and York counties)

 59th State House District (parts of Somerset and Westmoreland counties)

 60th State House District (parts of Armstrong, Butler, and Indiana counties)

For more information on voting and elections, call the Department of States toll-free hotline at 1-877-VOTESPA (1-877-868-3772) or visit votesPA.com.
Two of the COVID-19 vaccines in use in the United States - the Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna vaccines  require that people get a second dose to get the maximum protection the vaccines can provide.
There's no doubting the real star of Being Mr Wickham: it's the Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds, which in Libby Watson's clever design glints in the background of this monologue, bringing the glory of a preserved Regency setting to the story of what happened to George Wickham after Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice ended.

Wickham, you will remember, is the rogue who marries Lydia in the most disreputable and the most hurried of the novel's weddings; she is saved from ruin by the intervention of Mr Darcy, who forces Wickham, his father's godson, to make an honest woman of her after they have eloped. The events surrounding their match pave the way for the more famous and more reputable one between Elizabeth and Darcy.

Adrian Lukis, who is both co-author (with historian Catherine Curzon) and star of this one-man reminiscence, played Wickham in Andrew Davies's imperishable TV adaptation. His play is an attempt to provide context and to give the character the final word. Since no man is the villain of his own story, the picture that emerges is less critical and more sympathetic than the one Austen offered.

We are reunited with Wickham on his 60th birthday, when he is fretting about the loss of his looks and the vanishing of a world order that seemed more colourful than the "sanctimonious age of Victoria" in which he now finds himself. Lydia's still with him  a querulous voice off- and their children have grown up playing with those of Darcy and Elizabeth. All seems pretty well in Wickham world, though he has suffered  his best friend Denny was shot by his side at the battle of Waterloo  and still rails against a society that rewards wealth and propriety more than charm and his kind of dashing courage.

It's an interesting hour, particularly if you love Pride and Prejudice, gracefully directed with swift changes of pace and mood by Guy Unsworth and streamed courtesy of the Original Theatre Company. Lukis's presence makes it worth your while. He is such a watchable actor  he draws you into complicity with him, while making you hang on his every word. He knows how to wreak maximum advantage from a raised eyebrow, or a small sigh, and the pause he leaves between the phrase "I'm told I'd pass for 40" and its successor "on a good day" speaks volumes about the man.

There's a melancholy thread that runs through these reminiscences  "I've seen it all, though myself unseen"  that rounds out the story of Wickham's life and the context in which it unfurled. The writing is good too; vivid on Waterloo (when Howard Hudson's lighting design turns the walls blood red), funny on Lydia ("When she is asleep, I'm delighted"), sharp on the distinctions of class and rank that defined the Georgian age.

I suspect Lukis and Curzon are rather kinder to Wickham than Austen would have been if she'd survived to write the follow up, but nevertheless this is a classy production in the company of one of literature's footnotes.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 16:48:34|Editor: huaxia

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PUL-E-KHUMRI, Afghanistan, May 3 (Xinhua) -- An essential water canal has been renovated in Baghlan-e-Markazi district of northern Afghanistan's Baghlan province to irrigate 1,800 hectares of land, said a news release of the National Authority for Water Management released here on Monday.

The Ajmir water canal with a length of 26 km and at a cost of 20 million afghani (257,094 U.S. dollars) to rehabilitate, would help farmers irrigate 1,800 hectares of land in the province, the news release said.

According to the news release, the water canal would also produce electricity for the residents of Baghlan province.

The National Authority for Water Management has also completed the construction of a water canal in Khawja Dako district of the northern Jawzjan province a couple of days ago that could benefit 530 families besides irrigating 1,400 hectares of land in the area. Enditem
Today

Thunderstorms likely. High 78F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90%. Locally heavy rainfall possible.

Tonight

Thunderstorms this evening followed by occasional showers overnight. Low around 70F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%.

Tomorrow

Scattered thunderstorms in the morning, then mainly cloudy during the afternoon with thunderstorms likely. High 83F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%.
On April 1, Gov. Andrew Cuomo signed a bill into law that had been passed by the state legislature the previous night legalizing the purchase and consumption of recreational marijuana in New York state. That made New York the 15th state, along with the District of Columbia, to do so. Below, Tahira Rehmatullah, a cannabis investor and advisor, and Agatha Kluk, a Partner at Kluk Farber Law, discuss what the new laws mean for you  a New York resident looking to explore the boundaries of your newest civic right.

This story was originally published by our friends at Gossamer, the magazine and lifestyle brand for people who also smoke weed. You can learn more or subscribe to their print edition right here.

What date does legalization actually take effect?

It already happened. You missed it.

What will go into effect immediately?

Individuals are now allowed to possess up to 3 ounces of cannabis for recreational purposes or 24 grams of concentrated forms, such as oils.

New Yorkers are permitted to smoke cannabis in public wherever smoking tobacco is allowed, though localities and a new state agency could create regulations to more strictly control this in public. Smoking cannabis, however, is not permitted in schools, workplaces, or inside a car. In New York City, it will be banned in parks, beaches, boardwalks, pedestrian plazas and playgrounds, where tobacco smoking is also banned. Smoking is generally permitted on sidewalks in the city.

Other changes will go into effect in the coming months when officials create the regulatory framework that will govern every aspect of a brand-new, highly regulated market.

Can we smoke on the streets? Can I smoke in public?

Generally yes, but you cannot smoke weed in places where smoking tobacco is prohibited such as schools, public transportation, or, our favorite, bingo facilities.

So if I go out to a bar and security or police find cannabis in my purse, am I good?

As long as youre walking around with less than 3 ounces or 24 grams or less of concentrated forms such as oil, then you should be good in the eyes of the law. But since a bar is a private business, technically the owner could ban you from the premises for any reason. If that happens, we suggest finding a new bar.

When will I be able to go to a dispensary in NYC?

Anyone who tells you they know for sure is lying. No licenses have been given out yet, nor have any regulations on how to create a legal market been written, so this means there will certainly be a significant lag between legalization and actual sales. Some smart friends believe that the first legal sale could occur at some point in 2022, but knowing how long the process took other states, we think it could be a couple of years before youre lining up to buy at a neighborhood dispensary.

Will establishments be able to sell cannabis before official dispensaries open?

The new law in New York sets up a legal and regulatory program where the state will determine where cannabis retailers can set up shop and who gets to grow, process, distribute and sell cannabis products in the state. That process will take time and some commentators are estimating that we will not see legal sales until at least summer or fall of 2022.

Where will the tax money go? Has that been decided?

All adult-use cannabis tax revenue will be deposited in the New York state cannabis revenue fund. Revenue covers reasonable costs to administer the program and implement the law (and this full budget has not been released). The remaining funding will be split three ways:

40% to Education (schools and public education)

40% to Community Grants Reinvestment Fund (reinvested in communities disproportionately impacted by the war on drugs)

20% to Drug Treatment and Public Education Fund

Can I grow weed plants?

It depends. If youre a medical marijuana patient, youre allowed to start growing six months from the bill signing (so, a little less than six months from now). For recreational growing, you must wait until 18 months after the first legal state sale, which as we mentioned, could be years.

Whats going to happen to my dealer?

The responsible answer is that your dealer will be faced with a decision to either somehow go legit or hang up their satchel and find a new career. In reality, and for a variety of reasons, the legacy market continues to thrive in most other legal states, so your dealer will probably continue dealing, they just might be more punctual.

Will there be New York-specific weed brands now?

Youre talking to one. However, to answer the spirit of your question, yes, there will be all sorts of brands popping up. And for what its worth, technically there already are New York-specific weed brands now for medical patients.

If I buy from my plug right now is that illegal?

Yes.

Can cannabis purchased legally in a neighboring or other state be transported across state lines?

In a word: no. Cannabis is still generally illegal on the federal level so you cannot transport it across state lines, even if you are bringing it from one legal state to another.

Can you buy THC products or gummies from another state and have them shipped to New York?

Sending anything with more than 0.3% of THC across state lines is considered shipping a federally illegal substance and is not allowed. For that reason, no dispensary or licensed cannabis business can send edibles with more than 0.3% THC outside of a state where its legalized. So keep those gummies stateside (and enjoy!).

If youre asking specifically about our Gossamer x Rose Los Angeles THC Delights, the answer above still stands, unfortunately. However, you could eat one of our CBD ones and then smoke some legal flower for a close approximation.

Whats the legality of selling weed products, like edibles? On a small home biz-scale?

In New York, under the new law, households with one adult can cultivate up to six plants, (three mature and three immature), and households with more than one adult can cultivate 12 plants (six mature and six immature) for non-medical use. However, New York is still ironing out the details.

Will cannabis lounges and clubs have a pathway to open?

Yes! There will be licenses for consumption sites where people will be allowed to purchase cannabis to consume on site. As of now, there can be no alcohol served where cannabis is consumed.

How are production licenses distributed?

This is still in the works, but the states adult-use cannabis program will be run by two new government entities: the Cannabis Control Board, which will craft new regulations, and the Office of Cannabis Management, which will implement the regulations. These entities will be in charge of creating and allocating licenses for all parts of the supply chain, from cannabis cultivation to the processing of the plant into edibles, concentrates, and smokable products.

The number of licenses will be determined by regulators and an advisory board to ensure a competitive market where no licensee is dominant in the statewide marketplace or in any individual category of licensing. However, that info isnt available yet. All we know is that the stated goal is to award 50% of all adult-use licenses to social and economic equity applicants.

How can entrepreneurs start preparing financially for a retail license in NYC?

At this point, we do not know what the application will look like or how much it will cost. The best way to prepare is to ensure that you have an understanding for potential real estate locations, how much that real estate might cost, what budget is needed to run a retail location for a year (you can look into data from other states), and, if youll need to fundraise, start those conversations early.

When will licenses for cannabis retail become available in NYC? The law does not appear to give a date when license applications will be available or awarded, or when legal cannabis sales can begin, but we do know that the process wont start for a few months, at least. The governor and legislative leaders still have to appoint people to the Office of Cannabis Management and the accompanying board, and then they will have to approve regulations and go through the license-issuing process. Sit tight

How fast will medical patients see changes in offerings and prices?

Although the MRTA (Marijuana Regulation & Taxation Act) includes provisions to expand and strengthen the New York Medical Marijuana Program (such as additional dispensaries, additional patient access, more products like flower, and up to 60-day supplies), at this time the current regulations and program operations remain the same. The new regulations will take effect in six months at the earliest, according to the law and state officials.

Will cannabis be covered under health insurance?

Health insurance does not cover medical cannabis. Until there is federal legalization and cannabis is rescheduled from being a Schedule 1 drug under the Controlled Substances Act, cannabis will not have a path to be covered by insurance.

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Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 18:21:48|Editor: huaxia

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by Wu Junyi

HONG KONG, May 3 (Xinhua) -- India has been gripped by the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, with the total number of cases nearing 20 million on Monday.

Several other South Asian countries are also struggling with surging COVID-19 cases.

FAST-SPREADING SURGE, OXYGEN SHORTAGE

Indian health ministry said 368,147 new COVID-19 cases took the total tally in India to 19,925,604 on Monday. Meanwhile, 3,417 more deaths brought the death toll to 218,949.

COVID-19 figures continue to peak in India in the past weeks. India on Saturday reported a single day spike of 401,993 cases, the first time when over 400,000 new cases were recorded in the country in 24 hours. Previously, India witnessed a record single-day spike of 360,960 cases on April 28.

The government has imposed new measures to contain the spread. Some school exams have been canceled or postponed in the wake of the deteriorating situation.

The national capital New Delhi, one of the most affected places in the country, has been put under a third successive weeklong lockdown till May 10.

Huge spikes in daily COVID-19 cases have caused an acute shortage of oxygen and essential medicines in the country's hospitals.

To cope up with the crisis, the Indian government deployed trains and the air force to transport much-needed oxygen supplies to hard-hit states, apart from importing some of it from foreign countries.

The Indian government has also permitted the import of oxygen concentrators for personal use.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday held a virtual meeting with experts to review oxygen availability in the country. During the meeting, Modi reviewed the progress of converting nitrogen plants to oxygen plants in the country.

India's federal government has ordered 450,000 vials of Remdesivir from abroad to address a shortage of the antiviral drug in the country.

The country kicked off a nationwide vaccination drive in January, and so far over 157 million vaccination doses have been administered across the country.

Dozens of countries have committed their support and help with medical supplies, particularly the oxygen generating equipment, in order to help India combat the ongoing pandemic.

OTHER SOUTH ASIAN COUNTRIES ALSO HARD HIT

As for other South Asian countries, the pandemic is also hitting hard.

The Nepali government Sunday decided to suspend domestic flights fully and international flights with India, South Africa and Brazil.

The decision came after the country on the same day confirmed a new daily record of 7,211 infections.

Nepal witnessed less than 100 cases for most of the days in March but saw continuous rise of cases since April.

Along with rising cases, hospitals are running out of beds which prompted the health ministry to issue a stern warning on Friday that the cases were rising at the scale that the health system was not able to cope with.

Demand for oxygen has been rising in Nepal as more and more hospitalized COVID-19 patients are in need of oxygen.

The Nepali government has also imposed lockdown in Kathmandu Valley starting from April 29 and prohibitory orders have been issued in different parts of the country.

Pakistan is currently grappling with a third wave of COVID-19.

The country on Sunday reported 4,414 new COVID-19 cases over the last 24 hours, bringing the total number of confirmed cases to 829,933.

The total number of critical patients on ventilators in Pakistan was about 57 percent higher than the peak time of the disease in June last year, the chairman of the National Command and Operation Centre said Friday.

Bangladesh reported 1,359 new COVID-19 cases and 69 new deaths on Sunday, making the tally at 761,943 and death toll at 11,579.

To limit the second wave of the pandemic, Bangladesh extended the ongoing lockdown to May 5.

Last week, Bangladesh's drug regulator authorized the emergency use of Russia's Sputnik V vaccine and China's Sinopharm vaccine against COVID-19.

Sri Lankan officials have warned that the cases of a new COVID-19 virus variant were on the rise.

Health authorities announced that a new variant of the COVID-19 virus which was rapidly spreading across Sri Lanka was identified to be the B.1.1.7 variant reported in Britain and presently creating havoc in India.

MEASURES TIGHTENED TO CURB PANDEMIC

Pakistan banned travel from India for two weeks on April 19. The country on Saturday announced to significantly reduce inbound international air travel from May 5 to May 20, saying inbound air traffic will operate at 20 percent of the total current capacity.

New Zealand has categorized India, Brazil, Papua New Guinea and Pakistan as "very high-risk countries" to "significantly reduce the number of infected people flying to New Zealand."

The Indonesian government has also temporarily suspended the issuance of visas for foreigners who have visited India in the previous 14 days to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Bangladesh has imposed a ban on the entry of travellers from India via land ports. Cambodia and the Philippines have also imposed restrictions on travelers from India.

Singapore decided to tighten border measures "given the sustained increase in cases reported in the regions around Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka."

The Australian government has announced that from Monday any traveler who enters Australia after being in India within 14 days may face up to five years' imprisonment and heavy fines. Enditem


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Few organizations in the city have been around as long as the Winnipeg Art Gallery and the Winnipeg Foundation.

Few organizations in the city have been around as long as the Winnipeg Art Gallery and the Winnipeg Foundation.

So its natural when the foundation celebrated its 100th anniversary this year, the gallery would mark the occasion with an exhibition.

Collection of Oseredok, the Ukrainian Cultural and Educational Centre (Ivan Bobersky Collection) Ivan Boberskys photograph Back Alley, Hargrave Street and Donald Street, from the 1920s, is part of The Alloways Gift at the WAG.

The Alloways Gift is a collection of photographs, paintings of Winnipeg dating back as far back as 1890 and historical documents from the foundations archives. It also profiles the couple that laid the cornerstone of Canadas first community foundation.

They were William and Elizabeth Alloway, and it was his $100,000 donation on June 6, 1921  a blown-up photograph of that historic cheque is front-and-centre in the exhibition  that got the ball rolling. The foundation in 2020 received more than $187 million in donations and disbursed more than $73 million to the community, including to many arts groups hard hit by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The show is more than just a pat on the back for a centurys worth of good deeds.

Rosalie Favells print, Holding Her Ground.

Stephen Borys, the gallerys director and chief executive officer, suggested the second exhibition to Rick Frost, who prior to his retirement on April 26 had been the CEO of the Winnipeg Foundation for more than 20 years. Its an Indigenous response to the foundations exhibit, and Frost welcomed it.

"We must also recognize some of the more troubling aspects of the society in which the foundation was created; by doing so, we can work together to build an equitable future for all," Frost said in a statement released along with the exhibitions opening.

That is addressed in The Alloways Gift with a small panel that mentions the history of Metis scrip, certificates or vouchers given to Metis in Western Canada in exchange for their land rights. It says William Alloway and Peter Lowe, the foundations first executive director, had used "execrable means" to obtain scrip, which was then used to obtain land that could be sold to settlers.

William Notmans albumen print of Main Street is circa 1888. Acquired with funds from the Photography Endowment of The Winnipeg Art Gallery Foundation Inc. (Collection of the Winnipeg Art Gallery)

A second show, titled Rosalie Favells Family Legacy by Winnipeg-born Metis artist Rosalie Favell, contrasts with The Alloways Gift, and the two shows provide a look back at Winnipegs history from differing perspectives: the growth of and evolution of a city built by settlers at a longtime meeting place for Indigenous people and the growth and evolution of a Metis family within that city.

Im not sure how much my relatives or any other Metis relatives were aware of the implications when the banking people or land speculators came along and said, Here well give you cash for those certificates, and thats how they lost their land," says Favell, who has traced her family tree back to the 1700s, when her ancestor, John Favel, a British employee with the Hudsons Bay Company, came to Winnipeg.

"I guess it pushed some buttons but it also brought further awareness for me. I think its a good conversation between the different realities that were going on: his lifestyle and his love of Winnipeg and commitment to it and I think my work talks about a different love of Winnipeg and commitment to it."

Skaters behind the Legislative Building in 1921. (Collection of the Archives of Manitoba)

The Alloways Gift includes a number of black-and-white photographs on loan from the Manitoba Archives and the Ivan Bobersky Collection held by the Oseredok Ukrainian and Cultural Education Centre. Many of the downtown landmarks Bobersky photographed in 1920 remain and show how much Winnipeg has changed around the buildings that have stood the test of time.

Favell uses contemporary scenes of Winnipeg and Manitoba to provide backgrounds of her grandmothers holiday photographs from the 1950s and 60s that her family have preserved. She died in 1976 at 80 years old.

"Postcards people would send back home, unlike text messages. People would go on trips and quite often theyd write and say Hi and Wish you were here," says Favell of the series of photos, titled Wish You Were Here. "The sentiment of the postcard is also my sentiment for my grandmother, I really wish you were here. She passed away when I was 18, so my actual memories of her are from a young person.

D. Macdonalds oil painting of Winnipegs Main Street, 1882. (D. Macdonald / Permanent loan to the WAG Collection from the City of Winnipeg)

"When I had by great-nephews there the other day, they never knew her but I can show them her strength and resilience in the series of portraits."

Visitors should also linger around her large 2021 photo Walking Through Time, which uses a lenticular printing process that creates several images in one.

Favells parents are holding hands at the centre of the photograph, while there are other images such as her grandparents, printing from Metis scrip and illustrations of DNA genome sequencing that can be seen and then vanish, depending on which angle the picture is viewed.

The special paper had to be shipped from China, and pandemic-related supply-chain delays meant Walking Through Time was printed mere days before it was hung at the WAG.

"Not really knowing how it was going to flip as you walked by, I could sort of imagine," Favell says of the growing concern about the photographic paper shipment. "The printing was rushed; the concept, Ive been working for the past year on it."

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VICTORIA - Consumer trust for big brands dropped during the pandemic amid concerns about how ethically companies behaved, a 2021 study has found.

People line up at the Toronto Premium Outlets mall on Black Friday for shopping sales during the COVID-19 pandemic in Milton, Ont., Friday, Nov. 27, 2020. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Nathan Denette

VICTORIA - Consumer trust for big brands dropped during the pandemic amid concerns about how ethically companies behaved, a 2021 study has found.

The Gustavson Brand Trust Index by the University of Victoria, conducted between January and February this year, looked at consumer trust and the factors that affect it, as well as brands that succeed at it.

As the world climbs out of the pandemic, brand awareness is no longer the currency of business  consumer trust is the priority," said Saul Klein, dean of Gustavson School of Business

Air Canada experienced a rise in trust at the beginning of the pandemic due to its efforts to minimize staff layoffs and continue to pay into pensions and benefits funds for workers, the study found.

However, the airline's score declined after it failed to issue cash refunds for cancelled flights and provided free travel to social media influencers to promote travel during the pandemic.

The study also found that Canadians have a high ability to detect whether a brand demonstrates a short-lived act of compassion to take advantage of the pandemic.

Consumers are more conscious of brand values and whether leaders can manage their companies in ethical, transparent and authentic ways that benefit both people and the planet," said Klein.

Canada's major grocery stores were quick to implement protective measures when the pandemic hit, the study found.

Grocers, including Loblaw and Metro, also offered so-called hero pay to front-line employees during the first wave of the pandemic, only to discontinue it months later.

Scores of all major grocery brands on employee treatment went back down to the same level as they were before the pandemic, with some losing even more ground, it said.

The study also found that media brands including Global, CBC and CTV saw an increase in trust in the spring of 2020, as people tuned in to news channels more frequently at the beginning of the pandemic.

However, "the trust bubble has burst" and media companies lost ground as the pandemic wore on, the report said.

The media category ranked as the least trusted industry sector to debut in the index's history, it said.

The 2021 Gustavson Brand Trust Index surveyed 8,975 Canadians about 400 brands in 33 categories.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2021.

This story was produced with the financial assistance of the Facebook and Canadian Press News Fellowship.
COPENHAGEN - Denmark on Monday removed the single-dose Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 shot from its vaccination program to investigate reports of rare but potentially dangerous blood clots.

FILE - In this April 8, 2021 file photo, the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine is seen at a pop up vaccination site in the Staten Island borough of New York. With a green light from federal health officials, several states resumed use of the one-shot Johnson & Johnson coronavirus vaccine on Saturday, April 24. Among the venues where it's being deployed is the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, where free vaccinations were available to anyone 18 or older. (AP Photo/Mary Altaffer, File)

COPENHAGEN - Denmark on Monday removed the single-dose Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 shot from its vaccination program to investigate reports of rare but potentially dangerous blood clots.

Denmark, which has been very cautious with all vaccines, has already taken the AstraZeneca shot out of its vaccination program for the same reason. Both the J&J and AstraZeneca shots are made with similar technology.

The Danish Health Authority said in a statement that it has concluded that the benefits of using the COVID-19 vaccine from Johnson & Johnson do not outweigh the risk of causing the possible adverse effect.

It added that the European Medicines Agency has concluded that "there is a possible link between rare but severe cases of blood clots (VITT) and the COVID-19 vaccine from Johnson & Johnson.

As the COVID-19 epidemic in Denmark is currently under control, and the vaccination rollout is progressing satisfactorily with other available vaccines, the Danish Health Authority has decided to continue the national vaccination campaign without the COVID-19 vaccine from Johnson & Johnson.

Helene Probst, deputy director general at the Danish Health Authority, noted Monday's decision means that Denmarks vaccination calendar will be pushed back up to four weeks.

The decision was made at a meeting Monday in parliament between Health Minister Magnus Heunicke and lawmakers from the different parties.

The vaccines made by Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna represent the bulk of the jabs given in the Scandinavian country of nearly 6 million people. More more than 1.2 million residents have either received the first or the two shots, according to official figures.

The J&J vaccine hadn't been in use in Denmark, but there had been plans to administer the shot.

In April, the European Unions drug regulatory agency said it found a possible link between the Johnson & Johnsons COVID-19 vaccine and extremely rare blood clots, and recommended a warning be added to the label. But experts at the agency reiterated that the vaccines benefits outweighed the risks.

J&J immediately announced it would revise its label as requested and said in a statement: The safety and well-being of the people who use our products is our number one priority.

A month earlier, Denmark became the first country in Europe to remove the AstraZeneca jabs from its vaccination program over a potential link to a rare but serious form of blood clot. However, the Danish Health and Medicines Authority hasn't ruled out that the shots by the British-Swedish company could be used again.

Norway followed Denmark, and many countries in Europe and elsewhere followed suit. They later resumed using the shot after the European Medicines Agency said that it was safe but with some restricting it to certain age groups, mostly those above age 50 or 60.

The European Medicines Agency has said the vaccines benefits continue to outweigh its risks and the vaccine can continue to be administered while a closer evaluation of the blood clot cases continues.

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TORONTO - The federal environment minister says he is designating a controversial highway project in the western Greater Toronto Area for assessment.

TORONTO - The federal environment minister says he is designating a controversial highway project in the western Greater Toronto Area for assessment.

Jonathan Wilkinson says there are clear areas of federal concern with the project put forward by Ontario Premier Doug Ford's government.

He says his decision is based on the findings of several federal departments that the project may cause "adverse direct or incidental effects" on species at risk.

Wilkinson says a federal impact assessment will be grounded in science, evidence and Indigenous knowledge.

Environmentalists and opposition politicians have criticized the Highway 413 project, saying it would pave over environmentally sensitive areas and farmland.

Ontario's transportation minister says the province will work with the federal government, but the project was already subject to a "robust" environmental assessment.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2021.
CALGARY - Cannabis company High Tide Inc. has signed a deal to buy an 80 per cent stake in U.S. company Fab Nutrition LLC, which is focused on hemp-derived CBD products.

A cannabis plant approaching maturity is photographed in Fenwick, Ont., on Tuesday, June 26, 2018. THE CANADIAN PRESS/ Tijana Martin

CALGARY - Cannabis company High Tide Inc. has signed a deal to buy an 80 per cent stake in U.S. company Fab Nutrition LLC, which is focused on hemp-derived CBD products.

The Calgary-based company says it will pay US$20.64 million in shares and cash for the controlling stake and will have a three-year option to acquire the remaining 20 per cent.

The deal boosts High Tide's presence in the U.S., where it launched its CBDCity subsidiary in May 2020.

Fab Nutrition, which operates as FABCBD, was founded in 2017 and is based in Milwaukee.

Its CBD products include oils, creams, gummies and dog treats.

Under the deal, Josh Delaney, FABCBD's founder and sole shareholder, will join the High Tide team, as general manager of FABCBD.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2021.

Companies in this story: (TSX:HITI)
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 18:51:39|Editor: huaxia

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FARAH, Afghanistan, May 3 (Xinhua) -- Twenty soldiers lost lives as militants attacked a military post in Balablok district of the western Farah province on Monday, deputy to provincial council Khair Mohammad Norzai said.

The Taliban dug a tunnel to a military post in Balablok district and detonated it in the wee hours of Monday, Norzai told Xinhua, noting that the casualties could be higher as there were gunshots after the blast.

In the meantime, governor of Farah province Taj Mohammad Jahed confirmed the incident and said it took place in Shiwan area of the restive Balablok district after the militants exploded a military checkpoint early Monday killing six soldiers and another went missing.

Jahed said the attacking Taliban fled away after suffering casualties and leaving 10 fighters dead and injured on the ground.

However, Masoud Bakhtawar, a former member of Farah provincial council, said 30 soldiers who were present at the army base were all killed in the blast.

Police or army officials in Farah province are yet to comment. Enditem
TAIPEI, Taiwan - Russia is turning to multiple Chinese firms to manufacture the Sputnik V coronavirus vaccine in an effort to speed up production as demand soars for its shot.

FILE - In this Dec. 10, 2020, file photo, a Russian medical worker prepares a shot of Russia's Sputnik V coronavirus vaccine in Moscow. Russia is turning to multiple Chinese firms to manufacture the Sputnik V coronavirus vaccine in an effort to speed up production as demand soars for its shot. (AP Photo/Pavel Golovkin, File)

TAIPEI, Taiwan - Russia is turning to multiple Chinese firms to manufacture the Sputnik V coronavirus vaccine in an effort to speed up production as demand soars for its shot.

Russia has announced three deals totalling 260 million doses with Chinese vaccine companies in recent weeks. It's a decision that could mean quicker access to a shot for countries in Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa that have ordered Russia's vaccine, as the U.S. and the European Union focus mainly on domestic vaccination needs.

Earlier criticism about Russia's vaccine have been largely quieted by data published in the British medical journal The Lancet that said large-scale testing showed it to be safe, with an efficacy rate of 91%.

Yet, experts have questioned whether Russia can fulfil its pledge to countries across the world. While pledging hundreds of millions of doses, it has only delivered a fraction.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has said demand for Sputnik V significantly exceeds Russias domestic production capacity.

To boost production, the Russian Direct Investment Fund, which bankrolled Sputnik V, has signed agreements with multiple drug makers in other countries, such as India, South Korea, Brazil, Serbia, Turkey, Italy and others. There are few indications, however, that manufacturers abroad, except for those in Belarus and Kazakhstan, have made any large amounts of the vaccine so far.

Airfinity, a London-based science analytics company, estimates Russia agreed to supply some 630 million doses of Sputnik V to over 100 countries, with only 11.5 million doses exported so far.

RDIF declined to disclose how many doses are going to other countries. Through April 27, less than 27 million two-dose sets of Sputnik V have been reportedly produced in Russia.

The Russian Direct Investment Fund, which has been in charge of international co-operation for Sputnik V, said in April it would produce 100 million doses in collaboration with Hualan Biological Bacterin Inc., in addition to an earlier deal announced in March for 60 million doses with Shenzhen Yuanxin Gene tech Co.

The two deals are in addition to a deal announced last November with Tibet Rhodiola Pharmaceutical Holding Co, which had paid $9 million to manufacture and sell the Sputnik V vaccine in China. RDIF said in April the terms of the deal were for 100 million doses with a subsidiary company belonging to Tibet Rhodiola.

Russia is "very ambitious and unlikely to meet their full targets," said Rasmus Bech Hansen, founder and CEO of Airfinity. Working with China to produce Sputnik V could be a win-win situation for both Russia and China, he added.

In recent years, Chinese vaccine companies have turned from largely making products for use domestically to supplying the global market, with individual firms gaining WHO preapproval for specific vaccines  seen as a seal of quality. With the pandemic, Chinese vaccine companies have exported hundreds of millions of doses abroad.

Chinese vaccine makers have been quick to expand capacity and say they can meet Chinas domestic need by the end of the year.

"This is an acknowledgment of the Chinese vaccine manufacturers who can produce at volume," said Helen Chen, head of pharmaceuticals LEK Consulting, strategy consultancy firm in Shanghai, in an email.

However, none of the three Chinese companies have yet to start manufacturing Sputnik V.

Tibet Rhodiola started constructing a factory in Shanghai at the end of last year and expects production to start in September, the company said at an annual meeting for investors last month. Tibet Rhodiolas chairman Chen Dalin also said that after the successful technology transfer, they will start with an order of 80 million doses to sell back to Russia. An employee at the company declined to transfer a phone call request to the company's media department for comment.

The timeline for the newest deals are also unclear. Hualan Bio was among the 10 largest vaccines manufacturers in China in 2019. Phone calls to Hualan Bio went unanswered.

A spokeswoman for Shenzhen Yuanxing declined to say when the company will start production but said their order would not be for sale within China. RDIF had said the production will start this month.

In spite of the delays, Russias vaccine diplomacy has made gains.

From the outset, Russia, the first country to approve a coronavirus vaccine, aimed to distribute it globally. Within weeks of giving Sputnik V regulatory approval, RDIF started actively marketing it abroad, announcing multiple deals to supply the shot to other countries. It is so far winning the "public relations" battle, analysts said in a new report examining Russia and China's vaccine diplomacy from the Economist Intelligence Unit.

"Russia has been able to build stronger diplomatic ties and in areas where it hasnt been able to," before, said Imogen Page-Jarrett, an analyst at EIU. "They have this window of opportunity while the US, E.U. and India are focusing on domestic and the rest of the world is crying out for a vaccine supply."
EDMONTON - Alberta Premier Jason Kenney's government is suspending the spring sitting of the legislature due to soaring, record-breaking caseloads of COVID-19.

Alberta Premier Jason Kenney and Alberta Minister of Finance and President of the Treasury Board, Travis Toews walk in to give the 2021 budget in Edmonton Alta, on Thursday February 25, 2021. Kenney's government is suspending the spring sitting of the legislature due to soaring, record-breaking caseloads of COVID-19. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jason Franson

EDMONTON - Alberta Premier Jason Kenney's government is suspending the spring sitting of the legislature due to soaring, record-breaking caseloads of COVID-19.

Opposition NDP Leader Rachel Notley said Kenney was abandoning his post, deserting Albertans, and allowing others to work at personal risk on the front lines while leaving unfinished critical legislative work, such as paid sick leave.

"He's a coward," Notley told reporters Sunday, just hours after Kenney's government announced the suspension in a statement.

"This premier has locked the people out of their own legislature at a time when they are likely looking more than ever to that very building, and the people running the government inside of it, for leadership."

Government House Leader Jason Nixon, in a news release, said the two-week stoppage is to prevent further spread of the novel coronavirus.

He said it is not due to any confirmed COVID cases among legislature members or staff.

"With COVID-19 continuing to spread across Alberta, the government has determined that having MLAs return to Edmonton from all over the province after constituency week is no longer prudent," said Nixon.

"Suspending proceedings is the right thing to do as case counts increase."

Notley stressed her caucus was told of the decision but did not agree with it.

She said the suspension has nothing to do with public safety but with Kenney avoiding accountability on the COVID crisis while contending with a fractured caucus that has seen almost half of his United Conservative backbench publicly criticize his public health rules as an unnecessary infringement of personal freedoms.

Notley said Albertans shouldn't have to care about Kenney's internal political squabbles. She also said shutting down the legislature so politicians can stay safe sends a cruel message to those who can't stay home, including restaurant patio servers, retail staff, and teachers and students in schools.

"He's not thinking about any of those Albertans today. He's thinking about himself and not having to come into work," said Notley.

"He's running away from responsibility and frankly running away from his caucus."

Kenney's cabinet will continue to meet virtually and legislature committees will also continue, with members participating remotely.

The tentative return date is May 17, and Nixon said the house can reconvene earlier if an emergency arises.

Notley was asked: What would constitute a bigger emergency than the current COVID crisis?

"Your guess is as good as mine," she replied.

"There are multiple logical inconsistencies in the rationale behind this -- and that's what happens when you use one explanation to cover something you are doing for entirely different reasons.

"It is about politics and it's about Jason Kenney's utter failure to lead through this time."

The decision comes as Alberta's hospital system braces for a storm surge of patients over the next few weeks, given daily COVID-19 case counts have topped the 1,000 mark for almost a month.

On Thursday, Friday and Saturday, Alberta has logged more than 2,000 infections a day.

The daily count decreased on Sunday, to 1,731 new diagnoses and three added deaths.

But hospitalizations rose to 648, with 155 COVID-19 patients in intensive care.

Hospitals in Edmonton and Calgary have begun scaling back non-urgent surgeries to handle the pandemic-related influx.

On Friday, Alberta's physicians were briefed on a triage protocol should the COVID situation ever reach that sobering point.

The 50-page document stresses the plan would be to focus resources on patients with "the greatest likelihood of overall survival" while considering the amount of resources needed for that survival and how long those resources would be needed.

It will be a group call, given the heavy moral burden such life and death decisions would have on individual physicians. Family members of the patient would have no say.

For the last 14 months, Kenney has toggled health restrictions on public gatherings and businesses, trying to save lives and keep people's livelihoods intact.

He was criticized for waiting too long to bring in new rules during the second wave at Christmas and is now facing similar critiques during the third.

Kenney dismissed bringing in new restrictions on Monday, saying people likely wouldn't follow them anyway, but by Thursday introduced new rules on so-called COVID-19 hot spots. He said the measures were critical to bending the curve.

Kenney dismissed criticism he was pursuing inconsistent, confusing policy, instead characterizing it as a nimble, flexible response.

Kenney's government has also been criticized for failing to enforce public health rules, particularly allowing packed congregations to meet for months at the GraceLife Church near Edmonton before shutting it down in early April.

Kenney has said his government has no say in how health rules are enforced.

Over this weekend, hundreds of people flocked to a maskless "No More Lockdowns" rodeo outside the central Alberta community of Bowden, in full defiance of the province's health regulations and with no on-the-ground pushback from authorities.

Kenney, in a series of posts on Twitter Sunday, scolded the rodeo goers.

"Not only are gatherings like this a threat to public health, they are a slap in the face to everybody who is observing the rules to keep themselves and their fellow Albertans safe," Kenney wrote.

"If we do not begin to bend the curve, our health care system could very well be overwhelmed in a matter of weeks."

Alberta currently doesn't allow indoor social gatherings and outdoor gatherings are limited to 10 people. Stores remain open at sharply reduced capacity and restaurants can keep their patios open.

On Thursday Kenney announced new rules for high-case zones  encompassing most of Alberta's urban areas -- shuttering gyms and sending home Grade 7-12 students who weren't already learning on-line.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 2, 2021.

Note to readers: This is a corrected story. A previous version erroneously reported that the GraceLife Church closed in March. In fact, it closed in April.
OTTAWA - Canada is set to begin receiving more than two million doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine each week as the two pharmaceutical firms ramp up their deliveries and begin shipping shots from the United States.

A dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccination is prepared in Montreal, Friday, April 30, 2021. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ryan Remiorz

OTTAWA - Canada is set to begin receiving more than two million doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine each week as the two pharmaceutical firms ramp up their deliveries and begin shipping shots from the United States.

Pfizer and BioNTech have been consistently delivering around one million doses from Brussels each week since mid-March, but those numbers will double over the next month before increasing further in June.

This week's doses will also be the first to arrive from Pfizer's plant in Kalamazoo, Mich., after the U.S. government previously restricted vaccine exports to inoculate its own citizens.

There was no immediate word, however, on progress in talks with the U.S. over the provision of more doses of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine, which is in high demand across the country.

Federal Public Service and Procurement Minister Anita Anand said on Friday that Ottawa was "being very aggressive, especially with the supplier."

U.S. President Joe Biden suggested last month that the U.S. could share its stockpile of tens of millions of AstraZeneca shots, which health officials there have not approved for use.

Demand for the shot has skyrocketed after several provinces dropped the eligible age for the vaccine to 40-plus, and Anand has said Canada will receive four million total doses by the end of June, but the government does not have a detailed schedule of when they will actually arrive.

The Pfizer-BioNTech doses are the only shots scheduled for arrival in Canada over the next seven days, with Moderna slated to deliver its next shipment of more than one million doses next week.

The feds also haven't said when they will release doses of the single-shot vaccine from Johnson and Johnson, after the first 300,000 jabs arrived in Canada last week.

Plans to distribute them are now on hold after Health Canada learned some of them were manufactured at a Maryland facility that botched part of the production process for 15 million doses bound for the U.S.

The country's Food and Drug Administration recently cited the facility for violations including cleaning and sterilization failures, the potential for cross-contamination and failure to follow required protocols.

Health Canada had already cleared 1.5 million doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine made at the facility, but did not think the Canadian J&J doses had any connection to that plant.

Now Health Canada says the drug substance that makes up part of the J&J vaccine was actually produced there and then shipped elsewhere for the vaccines to be finished.

The push for more shots comes as many parts of the country remain in lockdown while a third wave of COVID-19 infections, exacerbated by numerous variants of the novel coronavirus, rages across Canada.

Against that backdrop, however, some long-standing virus hot spots prepared to accelerate their immunization efforts.

Both Quebec and Ontario are set to lower the age of eligibility for vaccination, with the latter province also planning to redirect half its supplies to designated neighbourhoods with high infection rates over the next two weeks.

More than 173,000 new vaccinations were reported across the country on Saturday, bringing the total number of doses given to 13,825,476.

Nationwide, 1,128,778 people or 3 per cent of the population has been fully vaccinated.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2021.
After stamping out the virus  and keeping it out for almost an entire pandemic winter  COVID-19 has returned to the remote fly-in community of Fort Chipewyan, sparking an alarming outbreak in an isolated hamlet billed as the oldest settled community in Alberta.

After stamping out the virus  and keeping it out for almost an entire pandemic winter  COVID-19 has returned to the remote fly-in community of Fort Chipewyan, sparking an alarming outbreak in an isolated hamlet billed as the oldest settled community in Alberta.

These days, roughly 1,200 mostly Indigenous people live in whats known as Fort Chip. Many regularly take the 40-minute flight south to the regional hub and oil powerhouse of Fort McMurray for work or errands, and its on one of these planes the virus is believed to have snuck back in.

The first case was diagnosed Tuesday, and by Friday there were nine. Leaders expect more to come.

In some ways, the tiny community is the canary in the coal mine for the province, which is currently under siege from a new surge of cases just as vaccines were providing a glimmer of hope. On Saturday, the province beat its own daily record, with 2,433 new cases.

According to Health Canada, that brings Alberta to 289 active cases per 100,000 people this week, which is the highest in the country. The next worst off is Ontario. Albertas rate is 70 per cent higher.

Its a third wave unrivalled in Canada, and propelled by what experts argue is a miasma of lacklustre policy, political unwillingness to alienate the provinces libertarian fringes, and dependency on a flagging oil industry that was struggling even before the pandemic.

"Its alarming," says Chief Allan Adam, head of the Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation, which has land nearby and many members living in Fort Chip. The community is taking no chances, says the longtime chief, noting theyre going over contingency plans and have put a curfew in place for minors.

"Its kind of, OK, what are we going into? We havent been in this situation before. Are we prepared? Do we have the proper medical staff here? Is everybody willing to sacrifice time and effort to make sure we pull through this?"

Fort Chip has seen a smattering of cases before, but this outbreak is its biggest yet. Its sparked fear at a time when cases in Alberta have skyrocketed, driven in part by a wave of cases in the nearby camps that house thousands of oilsands workers.

The cases at oil camps have helped make Alberta the COVID-19 capital of Canada.

Near Toronto, the region of Peel has been slammed hard, with a case rate of 372 cases per 100,000 residents, the highest in the province. The current rate in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo, which includes Fort McMurray and Fort Chip? Almost four times higher, at more than 1,655 people.

If you zoom out, the picture isnt much better. According to numbers compiled by researchers at Cornell University, on Wednesday the prairie province saw a higher one-day increase in cases relative to population than anywhere in the United States, save Michigan, a state currently battling a major surge.

On Thursday, Calgary Mayor Naheed Nenshi pointed out the rate in his city  500 per 100,000 people  is higher than that in India, where a fresh wave has largely overwhelmed the health-care system and depleted hospitals of critical supplies, such as oxygen.

"I dont want to scare people," Nenshi told media, as quoted by the Calgary Herald. "But I want to tell you that when the health-care system collapses, it collapses fast."

When talking about where the province went wrong, many critics point to Premier Jason Kenney. The former federal minister was put in power in Alberta by a united right wing, which threatens to disintegrate every time he considers new restrictions.

This week saw an abrupt reversal from Kenney. On Monday, he rejected new measures, saying people just needed to follow the existing ones, adding any additional rules would likely be ignored by a COVID-fatigued populace.

But on Thursday, Kenney announced new rules for hot spots, saying health restrictions are critical to bending the curve. Junior and high schools were sent back to remote learning, and indoor fitness activities were cancelled.

Particularly hard-hit regions can also implement curfews, in a striking move for freedom-loving Alberta.

But its too little too late for critics who point out that retail, churches and patio dining remain open, with some capacity restrictions, as the province resists the sort of hard lockdowns seen in Ontario.

"People are raising the alarm that were quite dire here and its just not being heard," said Dr. Tehseen Ladha, a pediatrician and professor of medicine at the University of Alberta who called the new measures "very weak and very late."

On Friday, Alberta Health Services held a provincewide virtual workshop for emergency physicians  who are already facing exhaustion and emotional burnout  outlining steps for triaging patients in case they run out of ICU beds, Ladha said.

"Weve already hit our peak ICU hospitalizations that we hit in the second wave and were still going up," she said.

Albertas problems are not entirely about policy, says Lorian Hardcastle, an associate professor of health, law and policy at the University of Calgary.

Its a big province with cities scattered relatively far apart, making it difficult to contain outbreaks and the economy was battered by low oil prices even before the pandemic began, making restrictions a particularly hard sell, she said. The oil industry is also very dependant on workers who fly in, which has arguably helped spread infection.

Still, whereas Alberta started out enacting similar health measures as the other provinces, she argues it has become a lone wolf  even among Conservative premiers, who have also been juggling restrictions with personal freedoms.

During serious second waves, Alberta and Manitoba, both Conservative strongholds, were "neck and neck in terms of underperforming," as Hardcastle puts it. But Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister blinked.

At a press conference in early December Pallister seemed overcome by emotion as he urged residents to "do the right thing" and chastised rule-breakers as "idiots." Since that rare display of emotion, Hardcastle argues, Manitoba has introduced new rules and partially brought spread under control.

"That was the turning point between those two jurisdictions, which were doing the worst," she says.

Doug Ford in Ontario too has shown the occasional burst of emotion, and while he continues to face criticism over his pandemic response, many Albertans have looked east and seen a premier who appeared to empathize.

Kenney has struck a more impersonal, occasionally combative tone, Hardcastle says.

"The only emotion that he shows is the occasional frustration with people not following the rules, but even then, its not overly expressive," she said. "People have likened it to a frustrated dad, kind of scolding people."

"Not always, but I think if Ford made a bad call hed be more likely to be more contrite about it."

Leadership style aside, Kenney also faces a more delicate political balance than his Conservative colleagues, she says. The New Democrat Party won a shock election in 2015 because the right side of the spectrum collapsed, and its this scenario that Kenney is trying to avoid repeating.

"I think Kenneys issue is that he has really tried to walk the line and not do whats politically unpopular. Among Kenneys supporters, he has, of course, a lot of the business community who has a particular view on many of these things and wants to see businesses remain open."

Most glaring has been the governments refusal to close meat-packing plants in southern Alberta, which saw some of the biggest workplace-linked outbreaks in Canada, says Jenn Prosser, founder of the Lethbridge COVID-19 Community Support Circle, which provides support to people in self-isolation in southern Alberta.

Just this week, vaccination clinics rolled out at two beef-packing plants  the Cargill plant near High River south of Calgary and the JBS Canada facility in Brooks  that had been hit hard by COVID-19 last year.

Nearly half of Cargills workers tested positive last spring and the plant was shut down for two weeks. JBS reduced operations to a single shift each day for a full month. It reported 650 cases among its 2,500 workers.

"There have been almost no provincial government supports to allow folks to stay home from work when sick, or when their workplace is unsafe," Prosser said.

Prosser says the province has "just sat back," putting the burden of slowing the spread on individuals and small local businesses while allowing corporations to keep unsafe workplaces open."

But while premiers like Pallister and Ontarios Ford many be similarly sympathetic to the business community, Hardcastle says Kenney must also reckon with Albertas strong libertarian streak, which also has a home in his own party.

Over the holidays, nine government MLAs  including a minster  left the province, several for beach holidays, despite urgings from all levels of govenrment to avoid non-essential travel. Earlier this month, 15 United Conservative MLAs released a public letter saying they did not support the governments measures.

This week a widely circulated video clip showed Deputy Speaker Angela Pitt declining to encourage or discourage Albertans to get vaccinated, instead telling them to do their own research. (She later backtracked, and posted on Facebook that she intended to get vaccinated when eligible.)

"If you look at provinces like Manitoba or Ontario, its not that everybody agrees with what the premiers there are doing, but there doesnt seem to be as much critique within the party itself, and critique that may cause them to lose the election," Hardcastle says.

While Kenney has at times spoken strongly about the need for public health measures, he has also erroneously referred to the coronavirus as a flu multiple times, and publicly lamented the effect that restrictions have had on small businesses in the province.

In a confusing misstep earlier this month, after an outbreak among school students and staff in a town in northern Alberta, Kenney twice blamed a childrens birthday party where "the virus had a 100 per cent attack rate."

An official with Alberta Health subsequently said there was no data to suggest there had been an outbreak from a childrens party in the community.

Speaking from Fort McMurray, Chief Allan says his community is looking to support the provincial government on pandemic measures  they just need help to get through this latest wave.

He sent an open letter to Kenney this week calling for more vaccines, isolation units and the establishment of a field hospital. Allan, who has been chief since 2007 and a band councillor before that, says its time for leaders to step up and be an example.

"The world has turned upside down for everybody," he said.

"If we lead in the wrong way, the general public will follow. Some stances are not the right ones. But we still have an opportunity to turn the tide."

With files from The Canadian Press

Alex Boyd is a Calgary-based reporter for the Star. Follow her on Twitter: @alex_n_boyd
In The News is a roundup of stories from The Canadian Press designed to kickstart your day. Here is what's on the radar of our editors for the morning of May 3 ...

In The News is a roundup of stories from The Canadian Press designed to kickstart your day. Here is what's on the radar of our editors for the morning of May 3 ...

What we are watching in Canada ...

OTTAWA -- Canada is set to begin receiving more than 2 million doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine this week as the two pharmaceutical firms ramp up their deliveries.

Pfizer and BioNTech have been consistently delivering around 1 million doses from Brussels each week since mid-March, but those numbers will double over the next month before increasing further in June.

This week's doses will also be the first to arrive from Pfizer's plant in Kalamazoo, Michigan, after the U-S government previously limited vaccine exports to inoculate its own citizens first.

But there is no immediate word on progress in talks with the U-S over the provision of more doses of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine, which is in high demand across Canada.

Moderna, meanwhile, is slated to deliver its next batch of more than 1 million shots next week.

Ottawa has not said when it will release the 300-thousand doses of the single-shot Johnson and Johnson vaccine that arrived last week.

health Canada recently announced it was holding those doses back while it investigates potential safety concerns tied to an American production plant.

Also this ...

IQALUIT -- A report from Nunavut's health department says shared cigarettes, broken isolation rules and a lack of cultural awareness at the territory's isolation hubs could have helped COVID-19 enter the territory.

Nunavut was COVID-free until November 2020 when its first cases popped up, leading to an outbreak that would last months.

The territory's first cases were people who completed a 14-day mandatory isolation period in Winnipeg hotels paid for by the Nunavut government.

The report, obtained by The Canadian Press through an access to information request, shows some guests shared lighters and cigarettes during breaks, increasing the likelihood of transmission.

It says some guests also didn't report symptoms because they feared the isolation would last longer.

The Nunavut government now has voluntary COVID-19 testing in all of its isolation hotels.

And this ...

Planned caesarean sections are safe for low-risk deliveries and may be associated with a lower chance of complications for both mother and baby compared with vaginal deliveries, according to the co-author of a study published today in the Canadian Medical Association Journal.

Still, maternal fetal medicine specialist Dr. Darine El-Chaar said women should consult their doctor on what's best for them, and called for more research on the long-term effects of planned caesareans, including how the health of babies born this way differs from their vaginally born counterparts.

El-Chaar said the research compared the outcomes of C-section deliveries that were requested and found that about 60 per cent of the mothers and their babies fared better.

Researchers analyzed birth-registry data from Ontario on 422,210 low-risk pregnancies between 2012 and 2018 and found 46,533 babies were born by C-section. They focused on 1,827 cases, or nearly four per cent, involving women who'd requested the procedure in advance.

They then looked for 10 common problems that can stem from labour and delivery, including rupture of the uterus, tears to the pelvic floor as well as whether the newborn was admitted to neonatal intensive care for issues such as respiratory distress.

"The findings are significant from a statistical point of view but we'd love to see this in a larger population," said El-Chaar, associate scientist at the Ottawa Hospital.

The study found women who chose a caesarean delivery were more likely to be white, aged 35 or older and live in a higher-income neighbourhood. They were also more likely to have conceived by in-vitro fertilization, and be delivering their first baby.

What we are watching in the U.S. ...

SAN RAMON, Calif.  Tech monolith Apple faces a trial today that could upend its iron control over its app store, which brings in billions of dollars each year while feeding more than 1.6 billion iPhones, iPads, and other devices.

The case, which represents one of Apple's most serious legal threats in recent years, comes from Epic Games, maker of the popular video game Fortnite.

Epic charges that Apple has transformed its once-tiny digital storefront into an illegal monopoly that squeezes mobile apps for a slice of their earnings.

Apple denies that charge and seeks to depict Epic as a would-be freeloader on its app store.

What we are watching in the rest of the world ...

NEW DELHI -- India recorded 368,147 new coronavirus cases on Monday and 3,417 deaths as a catastrophic surge ripples through the country.

The latest numbers came after leaders of 13 opposition parties penned a letter to urge the government to launch a free vaccination drive as well as ensure uninterrupted flow of oxygen to all hospitals.

Several hospital authorities over the weekend sought court intervention over oxygen supplies in New Delhi, where a lockdown has been extended by a week to contain the wave of infections.

Water has gone above the head. Enough is enough, said New Delhi High Court, adding it would start punishing government officials if supplies of oxygen allocated to hospitals were not delivered.

Prime Minister Narendra Modis government has been severely criticized over the handling of the surge, which has pushed Indias already fragile and underfunded health system to the brink.

More than 218,000 people in India have died from COVID-19, according to the health ministry.

ICYMI ...

Former Masters champion Mike Weir says he hit the right shots when he needed to down the stretch.

Weir, of Brights Grove, Ontario, won his first PGA Tour Champions event on Sunday -- the Insperity Invitational in Texas.

The 50-year-old challenged John Daly on the final holes. Daly settled for runner-up.

Weir finished the two-round tournament 10-under par, beating Daly by two strokes.

The victory was Weir's first on any tour since 2007.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2021
The pandemic has been hard on faith groups, but its also been challenging for local atheists and agnostics, too.

The pandemic has been hard on faith groups, but its also been challenging for local atheists and agnostics, too.

In April, the Winnipeg chapter of Humanists, Atheists and Agnostics of Manitoba (HAAM) announced they were suspending monthly meetings until the end of summer, then reassessing the situation in fall.

"Everyone is so exhausted," said Cheri Frazer, secretary of HAAM. "People say the topics are interesting, but theyre tired of being online all the time."

At the same time, HAAMs executive members are tired, with most having served on the board for several terms.

"Its time for the next generation to step up," said Frazer, 50, noting they need people to help plan meetings, answer emails and monitor social media for the 90-member organization.

She hopes it doesnt fold since HAAM performs an important role for non-believers, especially those who have left religious communities.

Its been especially important during the pandemic, when people have been isolated.

People who have "come out" as non-religious  almost all of HAAMs members left religious groups  often feel doubly isolated as their families or former friends reject them, she said.

"Its a double whammy," Frazer said.

During the pandemic HAAM has been an important source of encouragement and support for those people, she said, adding for some members who have lost their community "its been a pretty rough time."

In addition to supporting members, HAAM has also been promoting following public health orders to combat the virus, she said.

"Were a science-based group," she said. "We believe we have a human, moral and ethical obligation and responsibility to seek the good of our neighbours."

Along with supporting members, HAAM has supported and donated to worthwhile charities in Winnipeg, stood up for the separation of religion and government, and spoken out about human rights issues such as medical assistance in dying, sex education and reproductive choice. They have also sponsored school tuition for a child in Uganda.

But, said Frazer, the group cant keep doing those things without new people stepping up; the executive will meet towards the end of summer to decide whether to resume meetings and activities this fall.

"Without new people to help, its unlikely that we will continue," she said, adding she would hate to see it go.

"We think HAAM is worth saving, but only if there are enough people involved to support it," she said.

People who would like to become involved in HAAM can do so by emailing info@haam.ca.

faith@freepress.mb.ca
A dad and his little girl who walked into Canada at Emerson four years ago and made a refugee claim have been granted permanent resident status on rare humanitarian and compassionate grounds.

A dad and his little girl who walked into Canada at Emerson four years ago and made a refugee claim have been granted permanent resident status on rare humanitarian and compassionate grounds.

Zahid Abbas, who has been working two jobs to support his daughter, Kashaf, 11, and her mom and younger sister who remain in Pakistan, received a letter April 7 from the federal government saying the pair are now permanent residents of Canada.

"I was really happy and excited," said Abbas, who shared the good news with his daughter when she got home from school.

"She started crying. She called her mom and told her... My wife and younger daughter were really excited," said Abbas, who praised Canada and thanked Winnipeg-based human rights lawyer David Matas for taking his case.

Matas said the federal government receives many applications from people asking to stay in Canada on humanitarian and compassionate grounds. "Anyone can make them," he said this week. "The acceptance rate is relatively low."

Kashaf and her dad travelled to the Shriners Hospital for Children in Tampa, Fla., from Pakistan, to be treated for webbed fingers on her right hand.

She was born with Poland syndrome, which is characterized by an underdeveloped chest muscle and short, webbed fingers on one side of the body.

As a girl with disabilities, and her parents "mixed" Sunni-Shia marriage, she  and her mom, who has been assaulted because of it  was a target for discrimination and persecution in Pakistan, Abbas has said.

A Florida immigration lawyer told him making an asylum claim in the United States was a costly and hopeless proposition for people from Pakistan. Abbas, who was a police officer in his home country, decided to seek asylum Canada.

The pair headed north, and walked over the border at Emerson in August 2017.

They found lodging in an inner-city rooming house, before moving to an apartment in St. Vital, where Abbas found work and made friends.

Hes worked part-time on the pandemic front lines at Tim Hortons and for an agency supporting people with intellectual disabilities (which Abbas said will soon become a full-time position).

Kashaf is now in Grade 5, has friends and is thriving at school. Abbas said he looks forward to sponsoring his wife and younger daughter and their arrival in Canada once their applications are approved and travel bans are lifted.

They will apply, as a family, to become Canadian citizens as soon as theyre eligible, he said.

"This is the most wonderful country Ive seen so far," Abbas said. "It gives us equal rights and a person who wants to do hard work can, and achieve their targets. It has a wonderful education system and transparent politics."

carol.sanders@freepress.mb.ca
Non-Muslims involved in education in Winnipeg  teachers, teachers aides, administrators, bus drivers and trustees  are being invited to join their Muslim students by fasting for a day during Ramadan.

Non-Muslims involved in education in Winnipeg  teachers, teachers aides, administrators, bus drivers and trustees  are being invited to join their Muslim students by fasting for a day during Ramadan.

The invitation is coming from the Manitoba Islamic Association (MIA), which will hold a virtual iftar, or breaking of the day-long Ramadan fast, on May 7.

The event is being organized by Aadila Adam-Omer, a Grade 7 teacher at John Pritchard School in North Kildonan.

Adam-Omer, who is Muslim, was inspired to hold the event after four non-Muslim teachers at her school asked about fasting for a day. They wanted to learn more about Islam and develop deeper connections with their Muslim students.

That fast, which took place near the start of Ramadan, was very successful.

"When the Muslim students heard what their teachers were doing, they were thrilled," said Adam-Omer of the 25 or so Muslim students at the school. "They were impressed the teachers wanted to connect with them at that level."

She thought it might be a good idea to invite other teachers and other people involved in education in Winnipeg to do it, too.

"I thought, why not make it bigger and involve other schools," she said, noting one of the students sent a "heartfelt" note of thanks to his teacher for participating.

Participants in the city-wide iftar will be able to get a supper from the MIA, then join a Zoom conversation with local members of the Muslim community to learn more about Islam and the Muslim community in Manitoba.

Its also a chance to learn more about Ramadan, when Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset, and what it means to their students.

"Ramadan is more than fasting," Adam-Omer said. "Its also about coming together as a community, working past differences, and serving others."

By going without food for a day, it also helps people become more aware of hunger, and what it means to not have enough to eat, she said.

By participating, educators can also understand what its like for their students to not eat for a day.

"When I was a student in the 1970s, I used to hide the fact I was fasting," Adam-Omer said. "I was afraid others would find out."

Today things are different, she said, with people encouraged to celebrate their faiths and cultures. But some students might still feel uncomfortable if others knew they were going without food.

By participating in the fast, teachers can "help them feel more comfortable," she said, noting teachers and others will then have "first-hand experience about what its like."

If this years online event is successful, Adam-Omer hopes they can do it next year in person at a local mosque.

Educators who want to participate can register at www.miaonline.org.

faith@freepress.mb.ca
From student volunteer to president, Jackie Wild has seen, and helped foster, a lot of change in her eight years with the Manitoba Filipino Business Council.

From student volunteer to president, Jackie Wild has seen, and helped foster, a lot of change in her eight years with the Manitoba Filipino Business Council.

In its early days, the organization sought to connect Filipino business leaders under the leadership of a board that was mostly male. Today, the predominantly female board, led by Wild, is hoping to set an inclusive and allied path for the burgeoning business group.

Under her leadership, the council plans to expand its reach to serve as a resource centre both for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and people of colour) in business roles, and for all generations of Manitobas Filipino community.

"Its really amazing to see how much the community has gotten behind what we do, and also to see the vision transform over the years to be so much bigger and broader than us ourselves," Wild said.

"Certainly in the climate that were in, one of our key mandates is making sure that were supporting some of the most underserved and underrepresented groups in business settings."

Richard Ledda, who runs his own chiropractic business in Winnipeg, is grateful for the support he received as a young entrepreneur several years ago. Ledda said he was mentored as his budding business grew.

"It was a great way to build the community and see like-minded individuals of the same ethnicity," Ledda said. "Seeing their success, seeing that they go through their own struggles as well, but as a Filipino self-employed individual, seeing that Im not alone."

Jason Abraham (from left), Joyce Catenza, Katrina Daaca, Glorife Dela Cruz and Jackie Wild, who is president of the Manitoba Filipino Business Council. (Mike Sudoma / Winnipeg Free Press)

Ledda said the council gave him opportunities to spread the word about his practice  eventually growing the business by about 20 per cent  and to meet Filipino professionals who could support him.

Though his involvement slowed down, Ledda has stayed in touch with those he met at galas, seminars and trade shows, and hes noticed a new energy this year.

The councils new board, which was elected in January, is mostly women and first-time board members. With a fresh set of minds at the table, Wild said the team wants to expand its mandate, membership and role in the community to welcome a younger generation of leaders.

"I think its very easy as a BIPOC woman to question whether this is a place you deserve, a place youve earned," she said. "You realize that if you take the opportunity to make yourself comfortable and fight those voices in your head that are trying to convince you that you dont deserve this opportunity, the work that you do as a woman in that leadership role is a chance to make things easier for the next generation."

Its really amazing to see how much the community has gotten behind what we do, and also to see the vision transform over the years to be so much bigger and broader than us ourselves.  Jackie Wild

The council hopes to address the rise in anti-Asian hate crime and learn anti-racism skills from other racialized groups.

"(Our role) is not only to represent and protect our community, but to also to work with community groups and build further connection with allies so we can continue working collaboratively to instill stronger policies, frameworks and support systems for the greater business community and beyond," Wild said.

The council has worked with the Aboriginal Chamber of Commerce to build solidarity between the Indigenous and Filipino communities, as well as the Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce and World Trade Centre to facilitate anti-racism policy in the business community.

The board is made up of just five members, and though each has a unique perspective, Wild said the group is committed to being led by the goals and priorities of the entire Filipino community: from newcomers to second- and third-generation immigrants, from business leaders and professionals to those with no interest in the business world.

(Our role) is not only to represent and protect our community, but to also to work with community groups and build further connection with allies.  Jackie Wild

"Historically, weve really been focused on the business community, which is still very much part of our mandate, but looking back now on all of the relationships weve built in the past, our mandate really is much broader than just the business community and just the Filipino community," said Wild.

"We want to make sure that folks from all over the province understand that this is a resource for them whether you identify as Filipino, youre deeply rooted and involved in the Filipino community, or youre a person thats interested in getting engaged with the Filipino community."

Ledda said hes excited to renew his membership with the council.

"Im seeing them get momentum, energy and new leadership and I feel thats awesome for that community and for the Filipino community as well," Ledda said.

We want to make sure that folks from all over the province understand that this is a resource for them whether you identify as Filipino, youre deeply rooted and involved in the Filipino community, or youre a person thats interested in getting engaged with the Filipino community.  Jackie Wild

"Winnipeg is a very diverse city of lots of different populations. Filipinos arent just doing business with Filipinos, theyre doing business with other cultures and I think its crucial to get our connections out there to other communities."

The team plans to hold a town hall at the end of the month for members and anyone who wants to contribute to the group or learn about its goals.

"We wanted to set the stage by hitting the reset button for ourselves and making sure all of our programming was fully informed by the community," said Wild.

julia-simone.rutgers@freepress.mb.ca

Twitter: @jsrutgers
On Tuesday morning, I was getting ready for work, when my phone rang with my childs school name flashing on the screen.

Opinion

On Tuesday morning, I was getting ready for work, when my phone rang with my childs school name flashing on the screen.

Why are they calling me at 7:41 a.m.?

It was the principal. He was calling to let me know someone in my daughters class had tested positive for COVID-19 and the school believed my daughter had been a close contact. We needed to self-isolate immediately, and wait for more information and instructions to follow. I was annoyed and felt inconvenienced by having to self-isolate in my home with my partner and child for two weeks. Working from home with a child in tow is nearly impossible, even when she spends much of the day with eyes glued to a screen.

However, the more I thought about it, the more I realized my inconvenience and experience is dripping in privilege.

Not once after receiving that phone call did I worry about not being able to work. I can work, I just need to make adjustments to the way I do it, with the largest being my six-year-old co-worker playing Roblox in the same room.

Not once did I panic about having access to buy groceries online at the sometimes inflated prices baked into some delivery apps.

So long as we stay healthy, we will be OK.

Not everyone who gets the call telling them they or someone in their household has been exposed to COVID-19 and they have to self-isolate is lucky enough to be able to make the shift to work from home. For a lot of people, the call is crushing and far more than an inconvenience.

It means people who cant work from home because their jobs are in sectors where it is impossible to do so are likely unable to earn income during that time (unless, of course, their employer offers paid sick leave). Or, they opt to work through their symptoms because they cant afford not to.

Many people working on the front lines of this pandemic are working in low-paying jobs, and have a higher risk of getting sick because they are working with the public. According to the Canadian Union of Public Employees, less than half of workers in Canada have employer-paid sick days, and its closer to one-quarter for workers making less than $25,000 a year.

This needs to change.

We have all relied on the people who are working on the front lines of this pandemic to keep our society running.

Theyve been the oft-unsung heroes, going about their jobs while COVID-19 and variants of concern invisibly lurk. Theyve had to continue on, in spite of the dangers of public work in a pandemic.

If were being honest, Id venture to say most of us never fully realized the incredible impact front-line workers contribute to our community, pandemic or not. They deserve a healthy workplace and the peace of mind knowing they will be OK, at least financially, if they are sick and cant come to work.

According to researchers, Canada, Japan, and the U.S. are the only industrialized countries that do not provide universal access to paid sick leave.

Ottawa has rolled out the Canadian Recovery Sickness Benefit for people who are sick or need to self-isolate due to COVID-19. The weekly payment is $450 after taxes, and recipients who qualify are only entitled to four weeks of compensation. The program is a temporary solution set to end in September. Its a start, but our government needs to do more to invest in the health and safety of front-line workers now and well beyond COVID-19.

It shouldnt be a privilege to stay home and self-isolate when youre sick, especially during a global pandemic. We know doing this is the key to slowing the spread of COVID-19, and keeping ourselves and our community safe.

Paid sick time should be provided now, and continue after the pandemic is behind us.

shelley.cook@freepress.mb.ca

Twitter: @ShelleyACook
Qatars national carrier, Qatar Airways will launch on June 16 Abidjan route, Cote dIvoire, as it continues its expansion in Africa.

The airline in statement, Flying Simple reports, said it would operate three flights per week to the Cote dIvoire capital Abidjan via Accra in Ghana. The route will be served by Boeing 787 Dreamliner configured with 22 seats in business class and 232 seats in economy class. The new destination will be the airlines fourth new destination in Africa since the start of the pandemic.

We are thankful to the Cote dIvoire Government for their support to launch these flights, providing an opportunity to reunite family and friends with their loved ones across the globe. We look forward to working closely with our partners in Cote dIvoire to steadily grow this route and support the recovery of tourism and trade in the region, the company emphasized in the statement.

The airline also launched flights to Abuja Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (ABV) in Nigeria, Kotoka International Airport (ACC) in Accra, Ghana and to Quatro de Fevereiro Airport (LAD) in Luanda, Angola.

The Doha-based airline also announced last week it will resume flying to Khartoum, Sudan, two years after suspending the route.

Outside Africa, it has also launched routes namely to San Francisco International Airport (SFO), Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), U.S, Brisbane Airport (BNE), Australia, and to MactanCebu International Airport (CEB), Philippines.

Qatar airways currently operate flights to more 130 destinations worldwide.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 22:16:53|Editor: huaxia

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ISLAMABAD, May 3 (Xinhua) -- The Pakistani government will cooperate with Chinese hi-tech giant Huawei to train over 1,000 officials, facilitating the digitalization of government organizations to enhance the efficiency of work and service delivery, the president's office of Pakistan said on Monday.

Pakistani President Arif Alvi had a meeting with a delegation of Huawei, led by Vice President of Huawei Middle East Region Li Xiangyu, on Monday, the president's office said in a statement.

Alvi asked the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication to develop an action plan and set timelines for launching training programs for the government employees in fields like artificial intelligence, cloud technology and big data, according to the statement.

The Pakistani president urged the ministry to come up with more innovative ideas and enhance collaboration with Huawei for early realization of the Digital Pakistan initiative, it added.

During the meeting, Li said Huawei had contributed to Pakistan's economy by providing 10,000 jobs and paying 120 million U.S. dollar in taxes to the Pakistani government from 2018 to 2020, besides spending 6 million U.S. dollars in supporting disaster-relief efforts of the government.

Li said Huawei had also helped foster Pakistan's information and communication technology talents by providing 10,000 certifications till 2020, according to the statement. Enditem
The reflections of migratory birds whiz by Charlie McPhersons binoculars as he faces southwest down the shoreline. The sun is just now breaching the distant, still-frozen expanses of Lake Winnipeg.

The reflections of migratory birds whiz by Charlie McPhersons binoculars as he faces southwest down the shoreline. The sun is just now breaching the distant, still-frozen expanses of Lake Winnipeg.

The early morning light casts an orange hue on the waist-high grass. Duchess  McPhersons springer spaniel  sticks close by his side, nibbling burrs out of her long, wavy fur.

McPherson lowers the binoculars and jots down an entry to todays list of findings: one sharptailed grouse, one western meadowlark, seven green-winged teals, 26 rusty blackbirds, 28 herring gulls.

"Its the place to bird," he said. "I dont go anywhere until May."

McPherson founded Dunnottar Bird Watch more than a decade ago. Since then, nearly every day at the crack of dawn, he drives down to where Warner Road meets the beach ridge.

Many migratory birds use the Red River as a corridor when travelling north for the summer.

Once the birds reach Netley-Libau Marsh  believed to be the largest inland freshwater marsh on the continent  they bank left or right. The province dubbed this region one of Manitobas 36 important bird areas.

But there are far fewer birds to count these days because of habitat disruption, McPherson said.

"Twenty-five-thousand mallards and wood ducks used to breed and molt there. Those numbers have dropped to less than 1,000."

The Red River Basin Commission  a multi-jurisdictional non-profit  and a laundry list of enthusiastic stakeholders plan to break ground with the Netley-Libau Marsh restoration pilot project in August.

"We wanted to make sure that we started moving forward that we recognized this is the traditional lands of the First Nations, especially Peguis First Nation," said Steve Strang, head of the Red River Basin Commissions Manitoba chapter.

Roxane Anderson is in the final stages of writing her second memoir, Moving the Flood. Anderson began writing the book with her late husband after the freak flooding of their riverside property April 12, 2009. (Katlyn Streilein / Winnipeg Free Press)

Chief Derrick Henderson of Sagkeeng and Chief Deborah Smith of Brokenhead have backed the project from the start; seven First Nations are helping to finance the project, Strang said.

"I am so passionate about this project because I have three children. I want those children to know that I made every possible attempt to correct something I think is so wrong," he said. "We have to understand that there is a huge value to the environment, and we need to start paying it back."

The pilot project is two-fold: dredge parts of the wetland to correct water flow and use the extracted material to create elevated "reefs" where plants can flourish once again.

"The Prairies have been hit the worst within wetland loss," Strang said. "It is said that we have lost 90 per cent of the wetlands in some areas."

Dredging is not a new concept in the Netley-Libau Marsh.

As early as 1883, workers extracted Red River sediment from its main channel  known as the Netley Cut  to make way for barges and pleasure craft. The federal government stopped the dredging in 1999, and today, siltation packs much of the channel.

Up to 50 per cent of the Red River diverts back into the marsh, depending on water levels and wind direction, Strang said. It is filling in places it never has before  or at least so severely and regularly.

"The marsh has just been devastated," McPherson said. "Its just wide-open. A perpetually flooded marsh is a dying marsh."

Areas once considered "hemi-marsh," vast expanses of wetland with a 1:1 ratio of submerged and above-water plant life, have transformed into shallow lakes. In 1960, there were 50 individual water bodies within the marsh, according to the Lake Winnipeg Implementation Committee report.

Today, a fraction of bloated lakes remain.

The pilot project  a marriage between biology and engineering  will focus on restoring the southeast corner of Netley Lake: a 60-square-kilometre region that reaches depths of two metres.

"You will never get plants growing in those parts of Netley Lake," said Gordon Goldsborough, biologist, project adviser and local historian.

Charlie McPherson founded Dunnottar Bird Watch more than a decade ago. Since then, nearly every day at the crack of dawn, he drives down to where Warner Road meets the beach ridge. There are far fewer birds to count these days because of habitat disruption, McPherson said. (Katlyn Streilein / Winnipeg Free Press)

Goldsborough said this area poses a particular challenge, which makes it a good test subject.

"The prevailing wind direction here in Manitoba is from the northwest," he said. "The place where the waves crash is at the southeast side. If theres bound to be any wind-caused erosion, this is where it will be."

The University of Manitoba scholar has advised other wetland projects in the past, including the Delta Marsh restoration that had thousands of invasive, trouble-making carp removed from the waters.

The plan is to dredge the Netley Cut and deposit that soil on sections of the marshs floor to create elevated regions  including embankments. By lifting the marsh floor, ideally, the suns rays will reach the seed bank nestled within the local wetland soil, causing the plants to germinate by the end of summer or early next year.

"Were hoping that nature will help us along the way," he said.

Scientists picked this area because it presents the most significant challenge.

The deep pools of water and subsequent waves have staved off much of the areas plant life, such as the towering cattails. Big waves have also carried away hundreds of trees lining the marsh.

These treed areas provide much-needed shelter and shade for flora and fauna.

"The less vegetation you have, the more wave action youll get. The more wave action you get, the more erosion you get in the places where plants can occur," Goldsborough said.

He calls this cycle a "positive feedback loop," although, in this case, the net effect is damaging.

To dredge the soil, the basin commission contracted Quebec-based company Normrock Industries for its insect-like Amphibex machines. (Originally designed for dredging, Manitobans know about these apparatuses for breaking up Red River ice in the spring.)

"If it works  and were hopeful that it will  then the next step would be to try and do it on a larger scale," Goldsborough said. "Were going to learn so much along the way."

On Apr. 10, McPherson and two friends counted 22 bird species. McPherson reports a steep decline in many bird populations near Dunnottar, Man., the community where he was born and raised. (Katlyn Streilein / Winnipeg Free Press)

Strang, former mayor of the Rural Municipality of St. Clements, said the project is forward-looking and "multi-beneficial," pointing to like-minded projects in coastal Louisiana.

"Theyre doing it for the purpose of flood mitigation," he said. "All this vegetation starts to store carbon again."

The Red River contributes 17 per cent of the water into Lake Winnipeg, yet its responsible for ushering in 70 per cent of the total phosphorus load. Presently, much of the rivers nutrients are flowing into a wetland unequipped to bear the burden.

"Those nutrients are now flowing into a marsh system that doesnt have vegetation," Strang said.

He added scientists working on this project and others studying similar initiatives said Netley-Libau marsh could absorb up to six or seven per cent of the nutrients entering its system, if it functioned at its 1990s rate.

Six or seven per cent is equal to or more than the amount of nutrients entering the lake because of human activity in Winnipeg.

"The City of Winnipeg is on board with this pilot project because they see it, potentially, as a way to offset their impact on the water quality of the Red River at a relatively low cost and in a way that is sustainable," Goldsborough said.

Goldsborough admits the marsh isnt a panacea for Winnipegs wastewater woes, and city officials know this, but the region could act as an effective buffer to trap some algae-causing nutrients before they reach the lake.

A healthy marsh could also increase the south basins fish population by four to five per cent.

Many people whove lived or spent time near Lake Winnipeg recount stories of meandering shorelines, rising and falling water levels, crunchy zebra mussels, the ghostly howls of shifting ice  how the water is or used to be.

The regions natural systems have mystified Roxane Anderson for most of her life.

Anderson lives "12 miles as the Franklins gull flies" upriver from the marsh. A dense stand of poplar and oak trees shelter her home thats nestled within a recently built ring dike on river lot 95. Early maps of Netley-Libau Marsh dating to 1934 line her hallway.

1934 map of netley-libau marsh

Just up from the road from her house, a "prairie pothole"  a tiny wetland dimpling the landscape. Ducks Unlimited has stewarded the cattail-rimmed pond and is also supporting the Netley-Libau restoration.

Anderson is familiar with McPherson, his birds and the restoration project. The last time she boated through the marsh, its degradation struck her.

"It was just water  everywhere there was water," she said. "And the trees have declined. The marsh used to have all these little inlets."

Anderson is in the final stages of writing her second memoir, Moving the Flood. Anderson began writing the book with her late husband after the freak flooding of their riverside property April 12, 2009. The gumshoe historian discovered no record that the water  which bled far up the banks and past her home in the middle of the night  had ever behaved this way in the last 162 years.

"That led me on a journey to find research and to learn about the area," she said. "I made a promise to (my husband) to finish this work. He said, We need to let people know that things went wrong here. We need to protect the environment."

Spellbound by maps of Manitobas watershed, Anderson wanted to figure out what caused the flood. Was it ice-jamming? The Red River Floodway? Heavy rains? A lack of dredging? Lake Winnipeg Regulation? A combination of each?

Manitoba Hydro introduced the Lake Winnipeg Regulation in the 1970s, to manage water levels like a hydroelectric reservoir. The Jenpeg generating station regulates 85 per cent of Lake Winnipegs flow via the Nelson Rivers west channel at the most northern tip of the lake.

Regulation manages the water with the precision of one metre, almost like a weather report, up to 14 days in advance. Lake Winnipeg can expect water levels of 217.3 metres above sea level until the second week of May. To put this into perspective, Winnipeg sits 239 metres above sea level.

"If we need to utilize the lake, we need to look at ways we can change around some of the problems, and reconstructing that marsh is part of that solution," Strang said. "We can still have our hydro and the warmth and the light and everything else, and we can still have a healthy marsh."

The Red River Basin Commission and countless other organizations and communities are grappling to strike a balance between human intervention and natural cycles.

"Youll never see a partnership like this. It shows people have come together to agree this is a really, really important issue  and thats amazing," Strang said. "The federal government has committed a lot of financial dollars to this project through the program. Were hoping the province has the same passion."

Strang and Goldsborough expect the current Netley-Libau Marsh pilot project to unfold over the next decade or two if all goes as planned.

"What were proposing here not novel; its not that its never been anywhere, it has," Goldsborough said. "We are using a tried-and-true technology, but what were trying to do is determine if it will work here as well as it works elsewhere."

fpcity@freepress.mb.ca
Opinion

According to most projections, Canadas labour force growth will continue to grow slowly for years, with gains entirely dependent on immigration as our population ages. However, as the pandemic has shown, projections about the future are inherently uncertain.

Already, immigration fell sharply while mortality rose in 2020. The pandemics effect on the long-term course of labour-force participation of all workers and the human-capital formation (essentially, the development of skills that can increase productivity) of young people is unknown but likely to be negative.

Labour is a key input into economic growth. This is especially true in Canada, which has relied on rising labour inputs to partly compensate for its abysmal productivity performance in the past decade. So its worrying that Canadas labour-force growth is projected to slow in coming decades.

Indeed, the labour force of the future will be quite different from the past, owing to immigration and aging. Immigrants will account for all of Canadas future population increase, and immigrants have historically chosen to settle in only a few large cities.

Canadas aging population has several implications. While many will retire, others will stay active but only on their own terms, including flexible hours and more part-time work and self-employment. This will make finding and keeping workers challenging for large employers, especially in the union-dominated public sector.

The greater problem for our society is therefore more likely to be chronic labour shortages than mass unemployment caused by automation and technology.

However, as noted in a new study published by the Fraser Institute, a slowdown in labour-force growth is not inevitable. Labour-force growth accelerated between 1996 and 2006; at that time, severe labour shortages in parts of the country led employers to offer higher wages and recruit groups previously overlooked (such as the disabled and older workers), resulting in higher labour-force growth and a more diverse workplace without government intervention.

In western Canada at the peak of the oil boom in 2008, employers adopted a number of creative means to entice workers to join the labour force, delay retirement and work longer hours to supply the required labour. If future labour-force growth does not meet requirements, employers may be just as creative in finding the labour input they need.

Nor does a slowdown in population or labour-force growth automatically result in labour shortages. Many European countries, notably France and Italy, have seen a rapid aging of their populations in recent years, yet unemployment remains high and there are few symptoms of a shortage of labour. Some countries, including Japan, Russia and Poland, have seen their population shrink outright without creating labour shortages.

The same holds true in Canada for Quebec and the Maritime provinces, where population aging is more advanced than in Ontario and western Canada. However, these countries and regions with rapidly aging populations have seen a slowdown in economic growth and problems with government budget deficits.

But again, labour-force growth in not inevitable. And Canada can also influence other determinants of growth, namely the stock of capital and productivity.

On the capital front, several policies could help raise investment, including lowering effective tax rates, easing regulatory restrictions, promoting internal trade, encouraging more competition and business formation, and allowing resource developments (including pipelines) to proceed.

Its even easier to improve productivity growth. A wide range of existing technologies have the potential to boost productivity, including robotics, artificial intelligence, nanotechnology, quantum computing, biotechnology, the "Internet of things," advanced wireless technologies, 3D printing and driverless vehicles. The pandemic clearly accelerated the adoption of some technologies, especially those related to communications and online banking.

While the impact of technology on future labour demand may not be as negative as many fear, labour-supply growth will likely continue its recent slowdown, which had been accelerated by the pandemic. The experience of other countries and provinces within Canada shows that slower population growth increases the difficulty of sustaining economic growth and containing government deficits.

This makes it all the more important for Canada to adopt policies as soon as possible that stimulate business investment and boost productivity. Canadas large firms and governments must be more creative and flexible in retaining older workers as long as possible, while increasing the mobility that places younger workers in the best position to succeed in the future.

Philip Cross is a senior fellow at the Fraser Institute.
I dont have to think about what Joe Biden is doing every day. The best thing about Joe Biden is I dont have to think about Joe Biden.

Editorial

"I dont have to think about what Joe Biden is doing every day. The best thing about Joe Biden is I dont have to think about Joe Biden."

That observation, from a respondent to a recent NBC News poll, sums up how most Americans  and likely even more Canadians  feel about the first 100 days of Joe Bidens presidency.

The 100-day mark is a historic yardstick measuring how a new president is faring in office, a mark Biden hit April 29, and polls suggest his low-key style  some call it "boring"  is resonating with Americans exhausted by the roller-coaster ride they endured under the twice-impeached Donald J. Trump.

Under Mr. Biden, no one has to nervously furrow their brow wondering whether their president will issue yet another inflammatory tweet or incite extremist supporters to storm the U.S. Capitol. As he hit the 100-day mark, an average of six of the most recently conducted polls put Mr. Bidens approval rate at 55 per cent  middling compared with most new presidents, but making him more popular than Mr. Trump was on any single day of his carnival-sideshow presidency.

Whereas Mr. Trump spent his initial time in office making the case it had been the greatest 100 days in the history of presidents, Mr. Biden has quietly worked to eliminate the daily drama and avoid the spotlight. He has lowered the political temperature by tweeting far less  six per day compared with Mr. Trumps 18  and the world now spends less time Googling what the new president is up to. Google data show Canadians are still looking up the last president more often than the new one.

But its not just a question of style  more calm, less chaos  over substance. By almost any measure, Mr. Biden has been efficiently ticking things off his vast presidential to-do list.

The new president promised 100 million vaccines administered in his first 100 days, and delivered 200 million  not to mention sending out the US$1,400 emergency cheques that never arrived under Mr. Trump.

When he took office, the U.S. was averaging around 195,000 new cases of COVID-19 a day and 3,000 deaths. That has dropped to an average of 57,000 fresh infections and nearly 700 deaths per day, though the faster-spreading variants threaten those gains.

Unlike Mr. Trump, the new president is not averse to loosening the purse-strings, and has unveiled three blockbuster domestic spending plans  a US$1.9-trillion pandemic relief bill, a US$2.3-trillion infrastructure scheme, and a US$1.8-trillion plan targeting education and child care.

Most importantly for Canadians, he has moved quickly to improve relations left in tatters by Mr. Trump, who frequently lobbed personal insults at Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Mr. Biden has promised to share vaccines, seek the release of the two Canadians  Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor  wrongly imprisoned in China, and his first foreign meeting was with Mr. Trudeau.

"The United States has no closer friend than Canada," Mr. Biden told the prime minister in February. "Thats why you were my first call as president."

On his first day in office, Mr. Biden did cancel the Keystone XL pipeline, a project meant to expand critical Canadian oil exports. And it remains unclear how Canadian businesses will be impacted by his "Buy American" pledge on international trade.

But in his first 100 days, this "boring" president has proven himself willing to listen and show respect  two things Canadians value highly, and two things Mr. Trump was disinclined to do.
Seven Manitoba churches are back in court today in their legal fight over the provinces right to impose pandemic restrictions on them.

Seven Manitoba churches are back in court today in their legal fight over the provinces right to impose pandemic restrictions on them.

The Justice Centre for Constitutional Freedoms, a Calgary-based advocacy group, represents seven Manitoba churches in their fight against pandemic orders that restrict church gatherings: Gateway Bible Baptist Church, Pembina Valley Baptist Church, Redeeming Grace Bible Church, Grace Covenant Church, Slavic Baptist Church, Christian Church of Morden, and Bible Baptist Church. Three individual applicants on the lawsuit include a minister, a deacon, and a man fined for attending a Steinbach protest rally.

The group argues Manitobas Public Health Act transfers sweeping lawmaking power to chief provincial public health officer Dr. Brent Roussin, with little or no legislative oversight. The justice centre, which has filed similar legal action in B.C. and Alberta, wants sections of the Public Health Act that authorize those powers to be struck down.

The scheduled eight-day hearing is expected to focus on arguments that lockdown measures violate freedoms of conscience, religion, expression and association.

Church gatherings in the province are currently restricted to 10 people or 25 per cent of capacity, whichever is lower, with everyone required to wear a mask.

Lockdown orders and other pandemic restrictions have been issued by the provinces chief public health officer with no scientific support, violating the charter rights of Manitobans, the justice centre argued at an earlier hearing in the proceeding last February.

"Today we have to wear a mask; is Dr. (Brent) Roussin going to go out tomorrow and say we have to wear five?" advocacy group lawyer Allison Pejovic asked during a hearing before Court of Queens Bench Justice Glenn Joyal.

"All he needs to say is this is reasonably necessary and there is no requirement to provide any science," Pejovic said. "There needs to be some checks on his power."

Under the act, the chief public health officer may take certain measures if he "reasonably believe(s)" they are necessary, Pejovic said.

"Somebody needs to scrutinize whether Dr. Roussin is reasonable with respect to his reasonable belief," Pejovic said. "There is no criteria to decide whether an order of Dr. Roussin is necessary."

Lawyer Michael Conner, who represents the province, said Roussins orders are subject to "several layers" of checks and balances, with all levels of government "deeply involved" in decision-making.

Delegating authority to Roussin "makes sense" when dealing with a "rapidly evolving pandemic," but ministerial approval "is not a rubber stamp," Conner said.

dean.pritchard@freepress.mb.ca
Any Manitoba adult who says theyre First Nations, Metis or Inuit can now get a COVID-19 vaccine, a move that provoked a mix of relief and apprehension among Indigenous groups.

Any Manitoba adult who says theyre First Nations, Metis or Inuit can now get a COVID-19 vaccine, a move that provoked a mix of relief and apprehension among Indigenous groups.

"People who self-identify as First Nations, Metis or Inuit will be able to access the vaccine, without needing to provide any type of proof," Dr. Marcia Anderson, public health lead for the First Nations Pandemic Response Co-ordination Team, said Monday.

The province had previously offered shots to people in Indigenous communities, as well as all adults in priority neighbourhoods where many Indigenous people reside, to reach elders and the most vulnerable.

Dr. Marcia Anderson, public health lead, Manitoba First Nation Pandemic Response Coordination Team. THE CANADIAN PRESS FILES/John Woods

Now, anyone over the age of 18 who identifies as First Nations, Metis and Inuit can get shots at super-sites, without being asked to prove theyre Indigenous.

"This announcement today will close the gap, by making all Indigenous people eligible," Anderson told reporters.

The Manitoba Metis Federation said it learned of the news less than an hour before a media briefing Monday.

"Today surprised us; it's out of the blue," said MMF President David Chartrand.

He fears people lying about being Indigenous to get a shot will put elderly, disabled and poor Metis people farther back in the line.

This announcement today will close the gap, by making all Indigenous people eligible."  Dr. Marcia Anderson

"Were very concerned that anybody off the street can say, 'Well, I need this vaccine and I don't have chronic health conditions, but if I say I'm Metis I can get it anyway,'" Chartrand said.

"Sometimes you ask yourself, are they really thinking out the process, or are they just reacting."

The head of the Manitoba Inuit Association praised the change, which she said the province informed her of over the weekend.

"This is great news," said Rachel Dutton.

The Inuit association has held its own vaccine clinic as part of the provincial rollout, for Inuit and their family members who met provincial criteria. Verifying if someone is Inuit wasnt an issue, she said.

DANIEL CRUMP / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES. Manitoba Metis Federation President David Chartrand.

"The history of self-declaration for Inuit is very different from the history and lived experience of Metis," said Dutton.

Anderson said all Indigenous people have been impacted by colonization, and suffer more of the chronic conditions that leave them at a high risk for severe COVID-19 outcomes.

Meanwhile, most of the 52,000 vaccine doses that have been administered to First Nations people in Manitoba (75 per cent) have been on reserves.

Yet increasing numbers of First Nations people living off-reserve are being hospitalized and dying from COVID-19, leading the province to expand eligibility and set up pop-up sites to get more people vaccinated.

Were very concerned that anybody off the street can say, 'Well, I need this vaccine and I don't have chronic health conditions, but if I say I'm Metis I can get it anyway."  MMF President David Chartrand

"We have seen consistently that First Nations people have made up 50 to 60 per cent of all COVID-19 admissions to intensive-care units, and we want to ensure that all Indigenous peoples in Manitoba can access the vaccine as soon as possible," Anderson said.

"Getting the vaccine will not only protect the person, but also their family members and loved ones, which is critical to saving lives and protecting the capacity of the health-care system."

The province had already offered shots to all adults in priority neighbourhoods of Winnipeg, Brandon and other parts of the province with high coronavirus spread.

"We are trying to make it as easy as possible for as many people as possible to get vaccinated quickly," said Dr. Joss Reimer, the medical lead for Manitoba's vaccine rollout.

KEVIN KING / POOL Dr. Joss Reimer, medical lead of the vaccine task force.

Part of that involves vaccine clinics led by groups like Ma Mawi Wi Chi Itata Centre, which received an unexpected allotment of Moderna doses from the province for walk-ins Monday. Dozens queued up outside the centre on McGregor Street, with 720 shots administered by end of the day.

Starting Tuesday, the plan is to administer 360 doses a day, 80 per cent of which should be scheduled appointments, said spokeswoman Rosalyn Boucha.

The Mawi Wi pop-up is among the vaccination sites meant for all Indigenous people, yet Chartrand said Metis dont use those services as often as ones offered by the MMF.

He said the MMF was trying to get data from the province on how many of its registered 40,000 citizens have been vaccinated, so it could try setting up clinics in areas with large Metis populations.

Chartrand said the last discussion, on April 23, made no mention of opening up availability to anybody identifying as Indigenous.

We are trying to make it as easy as possible for as many people as possible to get vaccinated quickly."  Dr. Joss Reimer

"Its very insulting to me," said Chartrand. Hed prefer the province require an MMF citizenship card or a letter authorizing someone as being Metis, which could include 125,000 people.

Back in February, Anderson warned there would be a mechanism to weed out people who falsely identify as First Nations, or claim distant, tenuous family connections to get a shot.

"Fortunately, over time, what we've seen is that's become less necessary," Anderson said Monday.

Reimer also said she expects that vaccine eligibility criteria will be further expanded Tuesday to include more priority communities and, later this week, to include more Manitoba adults.

Eligibility for the AstraZeneca vaccine, which is provided at medical clinics and pharmacies, will remain for people 40 and over, or people age 30 to 39 with certain high-priority medical conditions.

 with files from Carol Sanders

dylan.robertson@freepress.mb.ca
COLUMBUS  Columbus will be celebrating its favorite tree for Redbud Days Saturday.

We are excited to be hosting our first community event of 2021, Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce President Paula Steiner said. We are a community that is coming back strong, after the pandemic. We appreciate everyones support and look forward to seeing you at the event.

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The day will feature music by Bad Habits, a Redbud Prince and Princess contest, classic car show by Badger Antique Motor Club, a Redbud tree giveaway, vendors including a Redbud Days beer sponsored by the Columbus Chamber of Commerce and Cercis Brewing Company. Steiner said citywide garage sales will also be happening throughout the community. For more information visit the Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce website.

The 2020 Redbud Days was cancelled due to COVID-19. Steiner said that the Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce is taking appropriate precautions for those who are attending.
Like everyone in the community, I want to move beyond COVID-19 and return to normal life, Mayor Cory Mason said in a statement. When I look at the data, I am optimistic that we are moving in the right direction. If we can continue to build momentum, administer more vaccine, and continue to wear masks for just a little while longer, we can beat this virus. We can get parades, festivals, concerts, and all of the events we have missed for more than a year back  but first, we must get vaccinated.
African countries must consider legal challenges to sugar taxes before pursuing policies

Governments must take urgent action to prevent noncommunicable diseases from becoming an uncontrollable epidemic in sub-Saharan Africa.

Sales of unhealthy foods and beverages in sub-Saharan Africa are skyrocketing. This is leading to an increase in obesity related conditons such as diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular disease.

These diseases are projected to become the leading cause of death in sub-Saharan Africa by 2030, overtaking communicable diseases like HIV and TB. The economic cost of noncommunicable diseases is immense. They result in significant disability, and can be very expensive to treat. In South Africa, the medical cost of diabetes was R2.7 billion in 2018.

But noncommunicable diseases are preventable. The economic and societal impact can be mitigated if governments take decisive action to reduce the availability of harmful products such as unhealthy food, alcohol and tobacco.

Sugar-sweetened beverages are among the most harmful food products to consumers. This is because liquid sugar is especially toxic and these drinks have no nutritional value.

One of the key ways to address the growing public health impact of sugary drinks is by introducing laws, policies and regulations. These measures could limit the availability of unhealthy products and make it easier to encourage people to eat healthy food. But they must be implemented as a combined effort.

There are a number of proven interventions to reduce the consumption of sugary drinks. These include limiting portion sizes, banning them from schools and checkout isles of supermarkets and taxing sugar-sweetened drinks.

But these measures have been challenged legally and by other means by the companies that produce and sell sugary drinks.

In 2012, then New York City mayor Michael Bloomberg introduced a regulation limiting the portion sizes of sugar-sweetened drinks sold around the city. The beverage industry and retailers challenged this decision in court and the policy was rolled back. South Africas efforts to introduce a tax on sugar-sweetened beverages faced threats of legal challenges. These were based on a range of technicalities from a lack of public participation to challenging the purpose of the tax. In this case, the objections only delayed the tax rather than stopping it.

Even if these law suits are unsuccessful, they can have a chilling effect on other actions to prevent noncommunicable diseases. Legal challenges to government efforts to address the availability of unhealthy food and drinks can seriously undermine public health.

This is why countries must carefully consider the legal feasibility of an intervention before deciding how to implement it. We developed a way in which countries can consider doing this. It involves an assessment of the potential legal barriers to, and as well as the facilitators of, the proposed intervention.

The landscape

Our study looked at the legal feasibility of introducing a tax on sugar-sweetened beverages in seven sub-Saharan African countries: Botswana, Kenya, Namibia, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia. We looked at four different types of sugary drinks taxes that had been introduced around the world and whether these could be introduced in each of these countries.

We assessed each countrys legal barriers and facilitators. These included their legal and taxation regimes. We also examined broader regional agreements and the infrastructure needed to implement such a tax.

We considered taxes implemented in various countries around the world and chose to evaluate the four taxes adopted in Mexico, Colombia, the UK and South Africa under this study. The tax introduced in Mexico added a fixed amount on each litre of soft drink. The taxes in South Africa and the United Kingdom link the amount of tax payable to the sugar content of a drink. And Colombia decided to remove a value added tax exemption from sugar-sweetened beverages. With the exception of Colombias approach, most of these taxes are introduced as an excise tax.

Our research showed that all seven sub-Saharan African countries had existing excise tax legislation. And five countries already taxed sugar-sweetened beverages. However, these existing taxes worked to generate revenue for governments rather than improve public health as the taxes did not differentiate between sugary and non-sugary drinks. For example, Rwanda had a tax of 39% on carbonated beverages but sugary drinks remained a cheap beverage option.

In addition, countries have an obligation to introduce measures to protect the health of their citizens. These obligations are set out in treaties like the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights and domestic constitutions which contain rights to nutritious food or health.

Our research also showed that there were existing laws that could be used as a foundation to adopt a sugar-sweetened beverage tax to improve public health. For example, Uganda had a dedicated HIV fund which was funded entirely by a 2% levy on drinks (including soft drinks and bottled water). Both Tanzania and Kenya had an agricultural levy on sugar, the proceeds of which were used to support sugar farmers.

The existence of supportive legal frameworks such as human rights could also be used to defend against potential challenges to a public health measure like this.

The introduction of taxes on sugar-sweetened beverages in Mexico and South Africa resulted in the reduced consumption of sugar and sugary drinks consumption within a year or two after the implementation of the tax. These reductions can lead to significant health benefits, particularly in people who consume a lot of sugary drinks. In addition, these taxes are a particularly good intervention because they can help governments generate additional tax revenues.

Looking ahead

Our research shows that sugar-sweetened beverage taxation in the seven countries is legally feasible. Existing laws can provide a strong starting point for the introduction of a sugar-sweetened beverage tax. In addition, the adoption of such a tax is a way for governments to meet their human rights obligations without having to worry about legal challenges undermining the intervention.

Legal feasibility and the health impact of these interventions are only one part in the complex political economy of adopting noncommunicable disease prevention interventions. Research has shown that the political environment and industry pushback against measures like sugar taxation are also important hurdles that need to be overcome.

Governments must take urgent action to prevent noncommunicable diseases from becoming an uncontrollable epidemic in sub-Saharan Africa. Sugar-sweetened beverage taxation offers a potential solution.

Safura Abdool Karim, Senior researcher, University of the Witwatersrand and Karen Hofman, Professor and Programme Director, SA MRC Centre for Health Economics and Decision Science - PRICELESS SA (Priority Cost Effective Lessons in Systems Strengthening South Africa), University of the Witwatersrand. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 22:23:33|Editor: huaxia

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NEW DELHI, May 3 (Xinhua) -- The Indian government on Monday allowed medical students studying in the fifth year of the MBBS course to be deployed in COVID-19 management duties under the supervision of their faculty.

The federal government also decided that such medical personnel completing 100 days of COVID-19 duties will be given priority in forthcoming regular government recruitments.

Such medical students can be utilized for tele-consultation and monitoring of mild COVID-19 cases under the supervision of faculty. Qualified nurses would be utilized in full-time nursing duties under the supervision of senior doctors and nurses.

The decisions were taken at a key meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The meeting reviewed the growing need for adequate human resources for responding to the COVID-19 resurgence in the country.

It was also decided to postpone the medical entrance examination, National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) for at least four months. The examination will not be held before Aug. 31. Enditem
Wits Community mourns the loss of one of the worlds greatest scientists

Wits University is saddened by the passing of Professor Bob Scholes, one of the worlds leading scientists on Climate Change.

Professor Bob Scholes passed away on the evening of Wednesday, 28 April, following a hike in Namibia with friends and colleagues. He was 63 years old.

The Wits University community is shocked and saddened by the sudden loss of such a giant in the field of climate science, not only in South Africa, but in the world. Professor Scholes was a true leader, a conscientious and dedicated scientist and a teacher to all, says Professor Zeblon Vilakazi, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of Wits University.

Professor Scholes was a Professor of Systems Ecology at Wits University. He was a Director of the Global Change Institute (GCI) at Wits and a Distinguished Professor at Wits. He was also an A-Rated scientist. He was among the top one per cent of environmental scientists worldwide, based on citation frequency, and published widely in the fields of savanna ecology, global change, and earth observation.

Professor Scholes has led several high-profile studies and held high profile positions in the fields of climate change and environmental studies globally. He has been one of the lead authors in the assessment reports of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) on present and future impacts of climate change and how we can adapt to, or reduce it. He has also been a member of the steering committees of several global earth observation bodies.

We in the Faculty of Science are deeply saddened by Professor Bob Scholes untimely passing. He was doing what he loved the most, which was being in the great African outdoors that he has dedicated so much of his life to preserving for future generations, says Professor Nithaya Chetty, Dean of the Faculty of Science at Wits University.

There is much to do to continue with the legacy that Bob leaves. Bob will want for us to do nothing more than to continue with his work, even if we pause only for a moment to contemplate his leading contributions to Wits, South Africa and the world. Bob will be sorely missed. He is, in many respects, irreplaceable. Despite this, we must all dig deep to find a way to move on. Bob will want that.

Bob leaves behind his wife, Professor Mary Scholes and their son Stirling.

Striling and I are saddened by the sudden loss of Bob. He died doing what he loved. He was a loving husband and father. We are grateful for all of the support that we are receiving, says Mary Scholes.

The Wits Community extends its sincere condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Professor Scholes and those who knew him well.

Wits will release details about a memorial service soon.

Tributes

Read this tribute [PDF] by Michel Verstraete, Visiting Professor at the Global Change Institute at Wits University.

Tribute by Professor Guy Midgley, Distinguished Professor in the Department of Botany and Zoology at Stellenbosch University:

The Stellenbosch University community of ecologists and global change scientists is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Professor Bob Scholes, Director of the Global Change Institute at the University of the Witwatersrand. Many of us have worked with Professor Scholes, some of us over several decades, and we feel this loss to the national and global environmental research community keenly. His was a talent and intellect that is irreplaceable. His contributions to science in general, to the development of South African ecological and global change science in particular, to several policy related fields, and to the international collaboration and assessment areas were enormously valuable to all of us. Our most sincere condolences go to Professor Mary Scholes and their son, Stirling.

Tribute by the Directors - Stephan Borrmann, Gerald Haug, Jos Lelieveld, Ulrich Poschl - and the members of the Max Planck Institute for Chemistry, Mainz, Germany:

"We are deeply saddened of the sudden passing of Bob Scholes, distinguished Professor and Director of the Global Change Institute at the University of the Witwatersrand in South Africa. With him the scientific community has lost a brilliant researcher and a truly caring scholar. Our deepest sympathy and sincere condolences go to Bobs wife, Mary Scholes, Distinguished Professor, School of Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences at the University of the Witwatersrand, and their son, Stirling. Mary has served as chairperson of the Scientific Advisory Board of our Institute from 2012 until 2018."

Southern African Program on Ecosystem Change and Society: Bob Scholes: Remembering a scientific giant, a colleague and a friend
Mining community networks in court to challenge Mining Charter

CALS is in the Pretoria High Court this week for a review of the 2018 Mining Charter which we believe was developed without meaningfully engaging communities

This week, the High Court in Pretoria is set to hear a review of the Mining Charter first brought by the Minerals Council of South Africa. Mining community networks, individual communities and trade unions have all joined the review following a High Court order. CALS represents MACUA and WAMUA, two of the countrys largest community networks, and argues that the Charter was developed without meaningfully engaging the communities it impacts.

The Mining Charter is intended as a tool for addressing inequality and promoting transformation in the mining sector in our country. Yet, the Charter itself has a history of being developed without engaging the very people it is meant to benefit: mining-affected communities. Communities have fought to change that, with networks like Mining Affected Communities United in Action (MACUA) and Women Affected by Mining United in Action (WAMUA) joining a High Court case challenging the Charter. In February 2018, they secured a historic victory, with the High Court declaring communities were key stakeholders in mining who must be consulted on the laws and policies that impact them.

Despite this, the public participation process on the new Mining Charter in the months that followed was entirely inadequate. Task teams on the Charter did not feature community representation; consultations with communities were set up with little notice in unclear venues without enough room to accommodate all those who wished to attend. Community members were at times addressed in a language which was not the main language of the area and were not given enough time to air their concerns about the draft Charter. A revised Mining Charter published in September 2018 therefore did not reflect mining communities needs or views.

In March 2019, the Minerals Council of South Africa (the former Chamber of Mines) brought a new review of the most recent Mining Charter against the Minister of Mineral Resources. In June last year, the High Court ordered that mining-affected communities and trade unions have direct and substantial interests in the proceedings and must be joined. This includes community networks like MACUA and WAMUA who are represented by the Centre for Applied Legal Studies, as well as other community networks and individual mining-affected communities.

The full review is now set to be heard virtually by the High Court in Pretoria from 3  6 May 2021.

Read our heads of argument here.

For inquiries, please contact:
COOPERSTOWN, N.Y. -- Cooperstown residents and community leaders rallied in the rain on Sunday in support of Asian Americans, as the number of hate crimes against the group has spiked.

COVID has started to get people riled up," said Cate Bohler, a 9th-grader from Cooperstown and the organizer of the rally. "And it's making people lash out.

Bohler was inspired to hold the event after the shooting in Atlanta in March which killed eight people, six of whom were Asian. Hate crimes against Asian Americans have increased by 169% from this time last year, as characterizations of COVID-19 as the Chinese virus and other insensitive terms have trickled down to the personal level.

There are sort of like under the breath kind of remarks where I'm like, you want to say them louder so somebody else can hear?" said Sallie Han, a professor of anthropology at SUNY Oneonta. "Or even just being made to feel sort of unwelcome.

Han says we can all chip in to stop this rise in hateful rhetoric.

The first thing is taking notice of our neighbors and our friends who are Asian and looking out for them," she says. "Checking in on them, and ourselves being aware that some of our neighbors and colleagues are going through a hard time. 

Overall, the message from the rally was clear.

I want people to realize that Asia is a really big place, and that Asians exist everywhere," Bohler said. "And they're just people like everyone else. So there's no reason to hate them.
Its Teacher Appreciation Week, and each day five educators throughout the region will be featured in recognition of their hard work and dedication.

Teacher Appreciation Week is presented through a partnership between NEWSChannel 2, The Genesis Group and First Source Credit Union.

Here are Mondays honorees and the messages submitted by those who nominated them:

Jennifer Karram

Jennifer Karram is a Teachers Assistant at West Canada Valley Central School District. Jennifer previously owned a successful insurance business before her love of children changed her career path.

She went back to school, received her certification and began substitute teaching part time in the Valley. She was soon hired full time at West Canada Valley Central School District where she herself was a graduate.

Jennifer quickly gained the admiration of the teachers and of those she works. Jennifer is loved by her students!

Jennifer Mueller

Jenny Mueller is a Special Education Pre-K Teacher through Herkimer Boces. While new to education in early childhood, she has been teaching adult students for approximately six years. Jenny engages her students with her enthusiasm every day. Jenny has been a registered nurse for 10 years and taught adult nursing students prior to the transition to become an elementary educator.

She advocates for her students and helps make changes in their learning plan that provide them with tools to grow and learn. Through compassion and dedication, Jenny makes a difference everyday...and we are thankful for her.

Ryan Tabolt

Ryan Tabolt is an Automotive Collision Repair Instructor at Madison-Oneida BOCES in Verona. Ryan Tabolt was a student in Jeff Richmonds Auto Body program at MOBOCES in his junior and senior year. After graduation he worked as a technician in a collision shop, and it was then that he told his wife he would love to be a teacher. His career brought him full circle when in 2018 he started teaching Automotive Collision Repair in the CTE program at MOBOCES!

What he loves most about the program is teaching students the skills that he is so passionate about. Because of his work, some of his students are provided internships at the Davidson Automotive Group.

He has done such a good job during the past year trying to keep his program engaging and exciting. He does videos of everything in the lab and is creating a great video library of virtual field trips to all our area auto collision facilities, said Kathryn Allen, director of Career and Technical Education Program at Madison-Oneida BOCES. Thank you Ryan!

Devon Rappa

Devon Rappa is a Pre-K Teacher at Central Valley Central School District in the Fisher Elementary building. Devon has been a teacher for over 15 years with the district and has always gone above and beyond to advocate and provide a great learning environment for her students.

Through the difficult transitions of the pandemic, Devon endured repeated situations which she faced head on with her enthusiastic personality. We are proud of her accomplishments as an educator and thankful that she has dedicated herself to working in our district.

Alana Flemma

I would like to nominate my daughters teacher Alana Flemma, a kindergarten teacher at Westmoreland Road Elementary School in the Whitesboro Central School District. Mrs. Flemma has been an awesome teacher for my daughter. My daughter is learning a lot and she loves going to school everyday. She actually gets upset when she has to stay home because she wants to be at school to see Mrs. Flemma. A couple of months ago I was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer.

Mrs. Flemma reached out to me right away to ask how she could help. It would have been impossible for me to fight this cancer battle without the support of Mrs. Flemma. I know that no matter what happens to me, Mrs. Flemma will be there for my daughter. That is the greatest feeling a mother can have.

Mrs. Flemma not only helps her students learn with their brains, she also helps them learn with their hearts....by supporting them emotionally and being there for them. Mrs. Flemma is our familys favorite teacher and we are honored to nominate her to be recognized during Teacher Appreciation Week.
TIPPECANOE COUNTY, Ind. (WLFI)  The Indiana Department of Environmental Management is urging farmers use the 24-Hour Emergency Spill Line.

During this time of year, chemicals are often being transported to and from farms. As well as livestock facilities transporting manure to land apply.

Aaron Green works for the Emergency Response Program at the Indiana Department of Environmental Management.

Green understands accidents happen, that why he encourages farmers to follow the three Cs.

Control the spill, so minimize the amount of material that is being released, said Green. Contain the spill, so make the area impacted as small as possible and then clean up the spill immediately."

Last year, IDEM received 1300 spill notifications through the spill line. Green said roughly 70 of those spill notifications were agriculture related.

Generally whenever you have an increase in activity theres a greater potential for spills or for accidents, said Green. Everyone is preparing for spring planting, so right now theres additional chemicals being transported.

IDEM classifies spills in three categories.

The first category, and most dangerous, is a spill that creates an immediate threat to human health and/or the environment. These spills are classified as Risk Exposure.

If those types of spills occur, the farmer needs to evacuate the area immediately."

Green said farmers also need to call 911.

Generally IDEM would not get involved until the acute hazard is addressed, said Green.

The second category is a spill that can create a threat to aquatic life.

Fertilizers and manure spills are an example, said Green. Aquatic life have a very low tolerance for these types of chemicals and it usually results in death. 

The final category is a spill that is not properly cleaned, which Green says can create a long-term chronic issue.

This is by polluting ground water and creating more long-term issues, said Green.

As planting season is underway, Green wants to farmers to know IDEM is there to help.

I would encourage farmers to be proactive and notify the IDEM spill line at 888-233-7745, said Green. There is no harm in notifying IDEM early.

Julia Wickard is the Agriculture Liaison for IDEM. She said IDEM knows accidents happen in any industry.

Thats why the spill line is there, said Wickard. Thats why we have public servants here at IDEM that can assist farmers to help clean up situations that are out of their control.

Wickard said its a team effort and she wants farmers to know they are not alone.

We at IDEM are a partner to farmers and we want to be there, said Wickard
Serendipitous journey for W&M senior leads to aspirations in global development, data and leadership

A Better World: When he first came to W&M, Matt Crittenden '21 had goals of making the world a better place. "You know, it's still true," he says. Photo by Stephen Salpukas Photo - of - Hide Caption

Matt Crittenden 21 aspires to build systems in data and policy that contribute to a better world. He is passionate about the applications and ethics of digital technology for global governance and socioeconomic justice.

Crittenden, who was born in Tokyo and moved in 2001 to Chesapeake, Virginia, also hopes to be a role model for future Asian American students in the global governance and development community.

A 2021 Rhodes Scholarship finalist, Crittenden is in on pace to graduate in May with a degree in international relations and data science.

He plans to spend this summer as an inaugural Civic Innovation Corps  Coding it Forward member with the New York City Department of City Plannings data engineering team before returning to Japan for the first time in 15 years. There, he plans to brush up on his Japanese language skills and work remotely on various data for development projects before applying next year to U.S. and U.K. graduate programs in social data science and data ethics.

When it comes to my interests in policy, global development, even international relations in general, you dont see very many Asian American faces in that field, Crittenden said. But to find a Japanese American dude whos working in development, whether in the U.S. or globally, Ive never really had a role model for that, so I would like to be that type of person for the next generation of Asian Americans.

Crittenden knew William & Mary was the right place for him when he attended the Day for Admitted Students and learned about opportunities to engage with global development, data science and interdisciplinary innovation.

That also happened to be his 18th birthday weekend.

It was a nice gift for turning 18, Crittenden said. My overall journey to William & Mary was nothing less than serendipitous, and Im continually thankful for it.

When I applied to William & Mary, I knew that I had an interest in international relations, and I wanted to make the world a better place, as naive as it sounds, Crittenden added. You know, its still true.

An AidData presentation on Data for Good inspired Crittenden to attend William & Mary, and he has since worked at both AidData and the Global Research Institutes Student Organization for Medical Outreach and Sustainability (SOMOS) team in the Ignite lab, a community-based health development research team in the Dominican Republic. In the summer of 2019, he spent 11 weeks in the Philippines as a joint Freeman Foundation-GRI Summer Fellow with the Affiliated Network for Social Accountability  East Asia Pacific's CheckMySchool initiative. He also serves as an inaugural member of GRIs student leadership committee.

Crittenden founded his own research team, geoParsing, at William & Marys Geospatial Evaluation and Observation Lab (geoLab) in the fall of 2018. His teams work was the first of its kind to foster collaboration between undergraduate students and the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, and it has led to multiple papers being featured on the front page of Intel.gov. His three years working with geoLab also motivated his senior honors thesis, which leverages machine learning and open-source data to better inform foreign policy and development.

Matt is an excellent student, and Im very confident that he will excel at anything he puts his mind to. Hes one of the most meticulous and brilliant undergraduate students that I have met during a decade of teaching at the university level, said Chinua Thelwell, associate professor of Africana studies and history and a founding faculty member of the universitys Asian & Pacific Islander American Studies program.

Crittendens academic achievements are numerous. He has been a James Monroe Scholar at William & Mary since his freshman year. He was also recognized as a 2021 Cypher Award Recipient and has been published as a co-author.

He credits many professors, faculty members and students at W&M for supporting him along the way. He says the geoLab, GRI, APIA Studies program and The Charles Center were particularly impactful throughout his undergraduate career.

If I have to talk about what Ive done, I couldnt have done any of it without the support of so many people Ive been incredibly lucky to meet here, Crittenden said. There are so many people who are willing to help you succeed at William & Mary, and I believe that really sets the university apart.
William & Mary selected to join Public Interest Technology University Network

W&Ms representative: Fredric Lederer had been selected to serve as universitys representative to the Public Interest Technology University Network, or PIT-UN. Lederer is Chancellor Professor at the universitys School of Law and also serves as director of the law schools Center for Legal & Court Technology. Courtesy photo Photo - of - Hide Caption

William & Mary has been selected to join a partnership of higher-education institutions that aims to form and build a new discipline that melds public-policy concerns with technological fields.

University President Katherine Rowe has designated Fredric Lederer to serve as William & Marys representative to the Public Interest Technology University Network, or PIT-UN. Lederer is Chancellor Professor at the universitys School of Law.

Lederer also serves as director of the law schools Center for Legal & Court Technology, which has been examining and negotiating the challenges and opportunities in applying modern advances to the workings of the U.S. legal system.

We have worked with courts in the U.S., Canada and other nations for years, he said. Our goal is always to find what type of technology  if any  will help them, rather than complicate their lives, particularly in dispute resolution.

As an example, Lederer said the Center for Legal & Court Technology has been funded by Cisco Systems for a number of years to educate judges and lawyers on the legal ramifications of technological advances such as artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things.

Weve done that, he said. And we have created interdisciplinary courses for the university. Our work has largely been to ask how we can use technology for the public good.

Many other William & Mary initiatives look to be a good fit for PIT-UN; Lederer cited the Global Research Institute as an example of work at the interface of tech and policy. The GRI is a multidisciplinary community that brings research savvy to bear in addressing complex global issues.

Lederer said he expects that his new role as PIT-UN representative will be a more widely focused version of his current work. He is optimistic about the promise of the PIT-UN collaboration, but notes that he is just getting introduced to the group.

We are talking about technology that betters the public in the broadest possible scope, he said. Rather than something dedicated to the profit motive, or to generating funds for an individual institution, the goal is technology that will improve the public good.

The PIT-UN website lists a variety of approaches to create what the organization terms civic-minded technologists, including curriculum and faculty development, initiatives such as clinics and fellowships and forging partnerships among like-minded public and private entities.

William & Mary becomes a member of PIT-UN in time for the organizations Public Interest Technology University Network Challenge, which supports development of programs within academia by encouraging new ideas, fostering collaborations and incentivizing resource- and information-sharing among network members.

The application period for the challenge has begun. Deadline is July 15 and applications should be initiated through Lederer. Each PIT-UN member institution is limited to three applications. Proposals are invited in three funding tranches:

Up to $45,000 for direct and indirect costs

Up to $90,000 for direct and indirect costs

Up to $180,000 for direct and indirect costs.

Luiza Newlin-Lukowicz spearheaded William & Marys application to join PIT-UN. Newlin-Lukowicz is senior director of corporate & foundation relations at the university. Her job in the universitys Office of Advancement involves identifying and cultivating potential support from private organizations. She said that PIT-UN came up during her teams regular review of the funding landscape.

It piqued our interest because it fit with many of the interdisciplinary, technology-related initiatives that William & Mary is pursuing, she said, going on to explain that PIT-UN is a relatively new part of the New America Foundation, a public-policy oriented think tank.

Newlin-Lukowicz explained that PIT-UN operates as a clearinghouse for research funding, distributing financial support from foundation, corporate, individual and governmental sources. PIT-UNs Network Challenge provides member institutions with exclusive opportunities to compete for grants that support research, curriculum, and capacity building activities designed to advance the nascent field of public interest technology.

Of course, were thrilled about the potential of this new funding stream, she said. But were equally excited about the cross-institutional collaborations that might emerge from our membership. Many private funders are prioritizing multi-institutional initiatives and PIT-UN will provide the platform to incubate such partnerships.

Lederer agrees, and says he believes participation in PIT-UN will be good for William & Mary on a number of levels. For starters, he hopes that PIT-UN membership will bolster the STEM profile of a university thats more well known for contributions in the humanities and social-science aspects of the liberal arts.

William & Mary has been very active in science, he said, and of course today, science also includes all things cyber. I think its fair to say that the outside world doesnt fully appreciate the degree to which the university is active  and successful  in the sciences.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 22:47:18|Editor: huaxia

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SINGAPORE, May 3 (Xinhua) -- Singapore Institute of Purchasing and Materials Management (SIPMM) said on Monday that the Singapore purchasing managers' index (PMI), an early indicator of manufacturing activity, rose from 50.8 in March to 50.9 in April.

This is the 10th month of expansion for Singapore's overall manufacturing sector. The PMI reading this April is the highest since December 2018, when the PMI reading was 51.1.

A PMI reading above 50 indicates expansion, while a reading below 50 indicates contraction.

Meanwhile, the PMI of Singapore's electronics industry posted a marginal rise of 0.1 points from the previous month to record a faster expansion at 50.7 in April. This is the ninth month of expansion for the electronics industry.

Sophia Poh, SIPMM vice-president of Industry Engagement and Development, was quoted by the Straits Times as saying that despite the upsurge in new orders, supply disruptions remain a major concern for manufacturers.

"Several manufacturers from the process industries are concerned about a labour crunch as a result of the recent entry ban on workers from India," she said. Enditem
A photograph of Andrew Brown Jr. is displayed on a screen as Edwin Newby and Ella Newby pay their respects to him during a viewing at Horton's Funeral Home and Cremations Chapel on May 2 in Hertford, North Carolina.
The Australian Education Union (AEU) in Victoria is currently promoting a week of action for teachers as part of its discussions with the state Labor government on a new industrial agreement covering public schools.

The unions initiative would be more accurately described as a week of diversions. Suggested activities consist of teachers wearing red clothes to work, downloading an AEU poster for staff rooms, detailing schoolwork done on weekends via social media, and attending an online union meeting to hear a report from the bureaucracy on a recently conducted teacher opinion survey on working conditions and on its behind closed doors discussions with the government on the new industrial agreement.

Negotiated every three to four years, the agreements covering public school teachers wages and conditions have served as important mechanisms for advancing the assault on public education that has been undertaken by successive Labor and Liberal governments, state and federal. The AEU works against teachers interests, enforcing near zero real wage increases while agreeing to even worse working conditions. The outcome is the current disaster within the public education system, with underfunded schools, increasing privatisation, overworked teachers, and regressive pedagogical measures driven by NAPLAN standardised tests imposed on students.

Mass meeting of Victorian teachers in 2012 (Source: WSWS Media)

The development of a new industrial agreement ought to be the trigger for a unified political struggle of teachers, education support (ES) staff and other school workers for decent wages and conditions, and for a genuinely free, accessible, high quality public education system.

For AEU officials, however, behind closed doors discussions with state government representatives are about devising how many more so-called productivity concessions and educational reform measures they can get away with imposing on teachers and school staff.

According to initial AEU reports, nothing has yet been agreed in the negotiations that have been underway for the last four months. The log of claims submitted by the union includes a grab bag of demands, including 7 percent annual wage rises, additional superannuation payments, a cap on class sizes of 20 students and a reduction in weekly face to face teaching time to a maximum of 18 hours, with fewer hours for teachers in the first three years of their career. These measures would amount to a modest contribution towards alleviating the untenable working conditions endured by many teachersyet it can be safely predicted that not a single one of them will be included in the final agreement signed off on by the AEU and the state government.

Notably absent from the log of claims is any mention of previous workplace concessions imposed by the AEU, which will remain in place without discussion. These include a 2013 agreement provision that fast-tracked unsatisfactory performance mechanisms to allow targeted teachers to be sacked in as little as 13 weeks.

Since coming to office in 2014, the Labor government of Premier Daniel Andrews has advanced the interests of big business and finance capital, including through privatisations of public assets and delivering budget surpluses to satisfy the credit ratings agencies. In early 2020, the government was preparing budget cuts totalling $4 billion, however the coronavirus-triggered slump forced it to instead prop up the economy through limited spending measures. Now there is a growing clamour within ruling circles for a return to austerity measures against the working class.

The government has refused anything other than minimal wage concessions to public sector workers, with an official 2 percent annual cap. Slightly higher rates in recently imposed agreementsa 3 percent annual wage rise for nurses, for examplehave included so-called productivity concessions eroding conditions.

The AEU is attempting to cultivate illusions in the Labor government. Teachers are being directed to campaign hubs across the state, whose nominal purpose is to lobby politicians. A union publication explained: Campaign hubs will be seeking meetings with local MPs [] We need government politicians and the broader community to understand the impact of excessive workloads on members lives, on your feelings about your work, and on your capacity to meet the needs of your students.

As if the problem confronting teachers is that politicians are not aware of the state of the public education system that they themselves have helped engineer!

The so-called campaign hubs are a cover for the AEUs determined refusal to mobilise teachers. The last time the union organised any form of industrial action in Victoria was in 2013. The last agreement was rammed through in 2017 without a single mass meeting being held. There is every reason to believe that the union aims to even more rapidly, and with even less discussion, push through a deal this year with the state government.

There is enormous anger and opposition within the schools. The AEUs Facebook page, even though frequently censored by union bureaucrats, gives some indication of the sentiments. Intolerable workloads are repeatedly raised: Ive been teaching for over 20 years and our workloads are greater now than they have ever been, a typical comment reads. I dont know how graduate teachers survive (they dont) [] AEU do something!!! Im starting to lose faith. A tired, over worked teacher and its only term 2, week 2.

Distrust in and hostility towards the union is also evident. One social media comment stated: I dont believe this union has the ability to bring the government to the bargaining table; much like the last agreement where we witnessed little pay increase, no difference to meeting times and contact hours, and useless and abused PPDs [professional practice days] to handle workload issues. Pathetic. Another stated: Yep I am over the AEU. Great at producing useless stationery but not worth the yearly fee. Will be cancelling my membership.

Teachers and school staff need to take their struggle for proper working conditions and an adequately funded public education system out of the hands of the union bureaucracy. Action needs to be developed before the AEU unveils yet another sell-out agreement! The fight for a decent agreement and for a public education system worthy of the name is above all a political fight against the state Labor government which stands opposed to teachers and school staff.

Rank and file committees ought to be formed in every primary and secondary school, and the widest discussion developed among teachers and school staff. The Committee for Public Education will provide every assistance to those seeking to take forward this struggle. Contact us today and get involved!

Email: cfpe.aus@gmail.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/commforpubliceducation

Twitter: @CFPE_Australia
On Friday, Facebook notified users that the World Socialist Web Site article Washington Posts Wuhan Lab conspiracy theory stands exposed had been inappropriately censored.

The WSWS article reported the backhanded admission by the Washington Post that the US government had presented no evidence that COVID-19 was created by a biological weapon, despite the promotion of this debunked conspiracy theory by the Post itself.

Beginning on February 25, Facebook blocked anyone from sharing the WSWS article, claiming that it goes against our community standards, declaring that the article included false information that has been repeatedly debunked.

A view of the P4 lab inside the Wuhan Institute of Virology is seen after a visit by the World Health Organization team in Wuhan in China's Hubei province on Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2021. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)

Any individual or group who attempted to share the article received a warning, and some individuals, including WSWS reporters themselves, received temporary suspensions for posting the article.

But after two months of muzzling anyone who attempted to share the article, Facebook sent messages to users declaring, were sorry we got this wrong. We reviewed your post again and it does follow our community standards.

The Trump administrations claim that COVID-19 was a weaponized virus was central to its racist incitement against Asians and Asian-Americans, embodied in Trumps declaration that COVID-19 was a Chinese virus and Kung-flu.

On March 29, the World Health Organization (WHO) published a report tearing the US governments claims about a weaponized virus to shreds, declaring the claims that COVID-19 was created as a weapon not even worth discussing, and an accidental lab leak extremely unlikely and not worth further investigation.

Facebooks admission raises burning questions. Who made the decision to suppress the WSWS article in the first place, and on what grounds? Did the Washington Post or its owner Jeff Bezos demand that the article be removed? And why did it take two whole months for Facebook reverse its incorrect decision?

The article indicts the Washington Post for deliberately promoting a false, discredited, and dangerous conspiracy theory, whose circulation would clearly violate Facebooks own policies on COVID-19 disinformation, and whose effect is to promote racist hatred of Asians and Asian-Americans.

After what was apparently a meticulous, two-month-long review, Facebooks fact checkers found nothing wrong with the WSWSs claims.

Moreover, why was the WSWS, which sought to publicize the WHOs position on the Wuhan Lab conspiracy theory, censored, while no action was taken against the Washington Post, which promoted a discredited and racist conspiracy theory peddled by the Trump administration?

To cite only one example, on April 14, 2020, the Washington Post published a column by Josh Rogin entitled  State Department cables warned of safety issues at Wuhan lab studying bat coronaviruses , which quoted an unnamed Trump administration official as saying, Right now, the ledger on the side of it leaking from the lab is packed with bullet points and theres almost nothing on the other side.

Rogins article declares One senior administration official told me that the cables provide one more piece of evidence to support the possibility that the pandemic is the result of a lab accident in Wuhan.

But when the full diplomatic cable referenced by Rogin was released in July, the Post itself concluded, The full cable does not strengthen the claim that an accident at the lab caused the virus to escape. Contrary to Rogins claims, the cables did not indicate any breaches of safety protocols at the laboratory: rather, it noted that manpower shortages were keeping the lab from operating at full capacity.

The conclusion is that either Rogin and the Washington Post served as a conduit for the Trump administrations racist conspiracy theory without reading the documents they cite as proof, or, worse, they had access to the documents but lied about their contents. To this day, the Post has not issued a retraction of Rogins piece.

The promotion of the Wuhan Lab lie by the Washington Post extended beyond Rogin. On February 5, the Post published an editorial embracing the position of the Trump State Department that a laboratory accident or leak represents a plausible explanation for the pandemic.

But just a few weeks later, the Post made a damning admission. Writing in an editorial, the Post declared, Full transparency is needed from China but also from the United States. The intelligence behind Mr. Pompeos statements should be declassified, with proper protection for sources and methods. The truth matters, and the United States should not hide any relevant evidence.

The WSWS article censored by Facebook noted, This seemingly even-handed presentation conceals a damning admission. It is a tacit acknowledgment that the Post does not possess a shred of evidence to back up its previous claims that the release of the virus is a plausible scenario.

The WHOs report on the origins of COVID-19 presented a damning setback for the US governments efforts to demonize the Chinese governmentand thereby the Chinese people and Chinese-Americansby claiming they bear responsibility for the deaths of three million people.

But these lies have already had their effect. As Marchs hearing on Discrimination and Violence Against Asian Americans by the House Judiciary committee made clear, the claim that China is responsible for COVID-19 was directly involved in countless violent attacks on Asian-Americans, some of which have been fatal.

Facebooks suppression of the WSWS article debunking the Wuhan Lab conspiracy theory incident makes clear one fundamental reality: the central target of the censorship dragnet created by the social media companies is not the far-right advocates of racist conspiracy theories, but left-wing opponents of war and militarism.

This point was driven home in November of last year, when Google CEO Sundar Pichai was asked in a congressional hearing to name a high profile person or entity from a liberal ideology who you have censored. The Google CEO replied by citing the WSWS.

Googles censorship of the WSWS continues. A search for 1619 project, the work of historical falsification by the New York Times, first debunked by Americas leading historians on the pages of the World Socialist Web Site, does not link to the WSWS until the sixth page.
The most recent dash to resume luxury cruise sailings after a year-long shutdown triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic has already claimed the life of a crew member. Last week, Cruise Law News (CLN), an organization which provides legal help to victims of industry malpractice, reported a crew suicide on the Royal Caribbean Cruise Line (RCCL) Odyssey of the Seas on Tuesday evening.

Although details including the name of the worker have not been released, the article, citing anonymously submitted crew reports, claims that the employee was a man from India who jumped overboard. Cruisemapper.com, a cruise industry publication, has also reported the workers death as a suicide.

Also last week, RCCL announced the suspension of the contracts of all crew members from India. Approximately 300 Indian employees who had traveled to their ports of embarkation last week were informed by RCCL that they would be unable to join their assigned ships. According to Crew-Center.com, a news source run by former cruise ship workers, the company stated that it would provide accommodations for all crew sent abroad while their contracts were temporarily canceled.

Royal Caribbean Odyssey of the Seas. Credit: Wikipedia, Oldih.

RCCL cited travel restrictions to and from India, which are related to the ongoing COVID-19 surge which is devastating the country. As of Sunday, the countrys seven day moving average for new infections was just over 370,000, representing a shattering of global highs across several categories for multiple days in a row. The most recent daily coronavirus death count is reported at over 3,300 while reports of hospitals being overwhelmed, shortages of oxygen and crematoriums operating at capacity abound.

In response to the countrys COVID-19 surge, several airlines in countries including the US, Canada, UK and Australia announced the suspension of flights from India. On April 19, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued an advisory warning against all travel to India. On Friday, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki announced that the Biden administration would begin to restrict travel from the country starting next week.

Until only recently, the luxury cruising industry has been on an effective hiatus since the outbreak of the pandemic in mid-March of 2020. When the virus was allowed to rage uncontrolled on several different vessels, including the infamous case of the Diamond Princess off of the coast of Japan, several passengers died and many more became infected. This crisis was exacerbated as governments worldwide placed restrictions on international travel, complicating routine and emergency disembarkation procedures.

After the evacuation of all paying customers, approximately 200,000 ship employees were stranded, with most pushed off of company payroll. The situation was prolonged until the fall of last year, with many crew members having been stuck at sea away from their families for over ten months.

Despite the surge of new cases of COVID-19 to an all-time global high, there has been a renewed drive to resume the operations of the major cruise companies. With the initial, still limited distribution of vaccines as a pretext, politicians in the US have takendoubtlessly in collaboration with the industry profiteersa series of political and legal maneuvers to force a reopening.

In early April, Republican Florida Governor Ron Desantis announced that his government would file a lawsuit against the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in order to force the agency to remove its meager restrictions on cruise ship operations. On April 20, Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy, also a Republican, announced that his government would join the litigation. Earlier in the month, Desantis appeared in a press conference with the major cruising executives.

The health and safety of passengers and maritime workers is of the least concern to Desantis. The Florida governor oversaw one of the earliest lifting of COVID-19 restrictions which led to an explosion of new infections, notably among younger individuals.

Dr. Michael Callahan, a major US epidemiologist who was involved in the emergency evacuation of the Diamond Princess last year, recently told the Miami Herald about public health risks of cruising during a pandemic. He cited particular concern over new COVID-19 variants spreading to countries where capacity for testing and vaccine distribution are low.

The World Socialist Web Site (WSWS) extensively followed the experience of crew who were stranded on marooned ships last year. Reports were widespread of employees having inadequate and conflicting information about when they would be repatriated. Shipboard management shifted blame entirely onto the CDC and various governmental health agencies for the delay while the situation wreaked personal and financial disaster on the workers lives.

Many employees reported feelings of extreme anxiety and depression. Between May and September of 2020, there were nearly a dozen non-COVID related deaths among crew on stranded cruise ships, which were widely thought to have been suicides. In several cases, it was only after cruise workers began to stage protests, demonstrations and strikes that companies took immediate action to repatriate their employees.

The pandemic and subsequent shutdown of the industry without compensation for crew lead to the devastation of hundreds of thousands in this section of the working class. The Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association estimates that in 2015, the global cruise industry accounted for nearly a million jobs, paying approximately $38 billion in wages and salaries while the industry was steadily growing.

In addition to having axed their shipboard employees in the 2020 shutdown, all of the major cruise operators also announced hundreds of layoffs to their shoreside workforce. While presenting austerity to their workers, these companies took full advantage of capital liquidity provided to banks by American relief bills and stimulus packages, paying their top executives handsomely.

The Miami Herald reported Tuesday that even as the companies faced record losses in the billions, company boards rewarded CEOs with multimillion-dollar payouts. Carnival CEO Arnold Donald and Norwegian CEO Frank Del Rio made more in 2020 than in 2019. Only Royal Caribbean Chairman and CEO Richard Fain was paid less in 2020 than in 2019.

The report continued, For two cruise companies, the CEO-to-worker pay ratio increased during the pandemic. Norwegian reported Del Rio made 1,188 times the median employee at the company, and Royal Caribbean reported Fain made 1,395 times the median employee at the companyOnly Carnival Corp. closed the gap slightly. The company reported Donald made 490 times the median employee in 2020.

In the past year, cruise ship employees have faced tremendous uncertainty about their futures. Attempts to resume sailings by major lines have been marred by frequent and sporadic false starts due to incongruities between company and port health protocols, the revoking of onboard and shore crew privileges, as well as occasional COVID-19 outbreaks among crew despite strict testing and quarantine regimes.

With many crew suffering from the trauma of being held at sea indefinitely with their livelihoods decimated, a tremendous sense of anxiety and personal disorientation pervades among these workers as they are forced to forge new lives in the wake of the destruction of their industry.

The scathing comments on CLNs Facebook page in response to the news of last months crew death illustrate the tremendous opposition by these workers to their conditions and mistreatment by the companies. One worker wrote, I remember after [September 11, 2001] and they froze our wages saying they werent making any money. Yet the ships were full, they were adding new funnels to all the ships and of course all the big wigs got their bonuses. Another commenter responded to the workers observation, [youre] an old timer, you have made more money than people working today.

Another commenter wrote, Nothing has changed. The CEOs in South Florida are living the life of GREED and the little people get nothing.

In my opinion all this and much worse (like the miserable food), come from the greed of the cruise companies, who have no respect for their crew and especially for the lower ones, wrote another.

While cruise executives take thousands, billions of dollars, HARD WORKING CREW are struggling to find food for their families tables. What a shame, for washy washy cruise lines.

Another user wrote, these pirates are there for one purpose onlyto create wealth for themselves. Pointing out that maritime labor unions, while claiming to represent the crew, make secret negotiations with management behind the backs of the workers, the commenter wrote, some international unions like Norwegian Seafarers Union (NSU) even join forces with these pirates without the crew members knowledge, receiving union fees, claiming that they are negotiating salary for the crew under the name of the Collective Bargaining Agreement. It is doubtful that the crew members even know about this. It is being done so that the pirates can claim that they follow the International Labor Organization Convention concerning freedom of organizations for the crew

A former crew member who spent months stranded on a ship last year spoke with the WSWS about the death of the crew member on the RCCL Odyssey. Its so sad to hear. My agent contacted me to join a ship in a few weeks, but I refused. I know Ill need to go back eventually, because its better money than I could ever make in my home country, but I wont return until things are totally normal.

Another former ship employee told the WSWS, I strongly believe RCCL should not bring crew members on board. New COVID variants are found in different countries like the UK, South Africa and now recently, India. The vaccines alone are inefficient for this situation. They should stop this stupidity of putting peoples lives in danger again.
Oil giant ExxonMobil initiated a lockout of more than 650 workers at its Beaumont, Texas refinery and blending and packaging plant on Saturday morning after negotiations broke down between the company and the United Steelworkers (USW) union. USW officials agreed to the orderly transfer of the workers off of ExxonMobils property and have not called an official strike.

USW Local 13-243 and ExxonMobil met Friday night and Saturday morning, attempting to come to an agreement before the lockout began. By 1 p.m. Saturday, union representatives said more than 200 workers on their regular shift had been escorted out of the facility, two at a time. Some workers reported they had been forced to leave the property as early as the night before.

The USW and ExxonMobil began bargaining a new contract on January 11. The company demanded workers accept a proposal which included major changes to workers safety, job security, and seniority rights. On April 23, ExxonMobil announced its intention to lock workers out on May 1 if they did not agree to the givebacks. The USW asked for the current contract to be extended by a year, but ExxonMobil said it would not do so and demanded that the USW bring its contract proposal to a vote. The USW, knowing that workers would overwhelmingly reject another concessionary contract, opted instead to let the company lock out its members.

Locked out ExxonMobil workers (Source: USW)

Workers gathered at a lot adjacent to the refinery and formed a picket line Saturday morning, carrying signs denouncing ExxonMobils actions. Health and safety are major concerns for workers at the plant and a major reason an agreement has not been reached. ExxonMobil claimed health and safety demands put forward by workers would significantly increase costs and limit its ability to remain competitive.

Last October, ExxonMobil, which had a market valuation of $174 billion at the end of 2020, suspended its contribution to employees 401(k) pension plans, citing the effects of the pandemic. At the time, a company spokeswoman said, ExxonMobils total remuneration remains competitive despite the suspension.

Oilworkers have been devastated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The slowdown of the global economy sharply drove down oil prices in early 2020, initiating a wave of mass layoffs in the oil sector. More than 118,000 energy workers were laid off worldwide between March and July in 2020, accounting for 15.5 percent of the industrys workforce. Combined with the 200,000 job cuts from 2014-16, amid another crash in oil prices, the losses are staggering.

One of the most common causes of accidents as reported by workers is understaffing. Jobs in the oil industry are physically demanding and workers normally see 12-hour shifts plus overtime. Hazardous materials and heavy machinery create an environment with a high potential for workplace injury. More than 1,500 oil rig workers died on the job between 2008 and 2017.

There is also a looming mental health crisis among male workers in the industry, who die from suicide at a higher rate than workers in any other sector. Researchers have drawn a connection between the collapse of oil prices and suicide rates. The Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute in Austin, Texas estimated deaths of despair among oil and gas workers would rise by as much as 20 percent, due to consequences of the pandemic.

Workers at ExxonMobils Beaumont facility spoke with local reporters at KBMT news. Picketers maintained they kept the plant running through numerous hazards.

'We've had to go through the pandemic. We've had a couple hurricanes. We've had the ice storm. Our guys have done what was necessary to keep this plant up and running,' one worker said.

In a released statement, union officials stated one of ExxonMobils demands included eliminating seniority benefits, which the company would use to slash wages and force retirements. Experts estimate about half of the oil and gas workforce is tenured, with the majority nearing retirement.

USW District 13 Representative Richard Hoot Landry told the Beaumont Enterprise that the union was still planning on what to do next, and always intended to avoid a work stoppage. Landry claimed ExxonMobil locked out workers because the company wanted to maintain control of the situation. That is no doubt true. By preventing a strike and blocking a broader mobilization of oil and other industrial workers in support of the embattled Beaumont workers, the USW has given all the momentum to the energy giant.

During the 2015 strike by 6,500 Shell, BP, Tesoro and other oilworkers, the USW forced ExxonMobil workers to remain on the job, triggering widespread anger among Beaumont workers. The USW then signed a deal with ExxonMobil to separate Beaumont workers from the industry-wide pattern agreement and establish a different contract expiration date from thousands of other oilworkers.

At the time, one Beaumont worker told the World Socialist Web Site, Here in Beaumont, ExxonMobil is demanding a five-year agreement to separate us from the rest of the national bargaining agreement. They want to give us a $4,500 signing bonus for labor peace during an expansion. If ExxonMobil doesnt honor the [national] tentative agreement and all the other places have already settled, we are very anxious that the local will cave in because the USW International has left us out here alone.'

The lockout of oilworkers takes place as thousands of workers across the US are engaging in struggles, which have pit them not only against the corporations and the government, but also the corporatist unions. Graduate student workers at Columbia University rejected a sellout contract endorsed by the Graduate Workers of Columbia, their union affiliated with the United Auto Workers union (UAW). Union officials presented workers with a contract that did not meet any of the students demands and included a no-strike clause.

At the same time, the UAW is sabotaging the two-week strike by nearly 3,000 workers at Volvos New River Valley heavy truck plant in Dublin, Virginia. The UAW instructed workers to return to work Sunday night without voting or even seeing the tentative agreement the union reached with Volvo. Workers at the plant initiated the Volvo Workers Rank-and-File Committee in direct opposition to the union.

Workers must draw the necessary conclusions. For their struggles to move forward, control cannot be left in the hands of the pro-company and nationalist unions. The International Committee of the Fourth International (ICFI) and its affiliated Socialist Equality Parties around the world have called for the formation of the International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees (IWA-RFC) to unify and coordinate the growing, global opposition of the working class.

It is imperative that workers develop new forms of independent, democratic and militant rank-and-file organizations in factories, schools and workplaces to break the shackles imposed on them by the reactionary unions. We urge oilworkers and other workers to contact the WSWS for more information on how you can join this fight.
When the ruling class in Germany prepares an offensive for war and rearmament it can rely on the Green Party. That was the case in 1998, when then Green Foreign Minister Joschka Fischer organised Germanys first post-war international military intervention, sending the German army (Bundeswehr) off to war against Serbia, and so it is again today.

At the same time as the German government is drastically increasing military spending, NATO is organising one of its biggest-ever manoeuvres since the end of the Cold War directly on the Russian border (Defender Europe 2021). And as German police are being equipped to suppress resistance to the governments coronavirus policy and attacks on social rights, the Greens are promoting militarism and preparations for war in their campaign for this years federal election.

Since Annalena Baerbock was appointed the Green Partys choice as potential chancellor, the warmongering of the Greens has taken on outright hysterical forms. There is hardly a more repulsive spectacle than a talk show or an interview featuring Baerbock, in which the 40-year-old talks about her childhood on a farm, her early participation with her parents in human chain protests against the arms race, only then to announce, with a smile on her face, that it is urgently necessary to put a stop to Russian aggression, provide Ukraine with more military support and support its admission into NATO and the EU.

Annalena Baerbock (Photo: Stephan Rohl / CC BY-SA 2.0)

One asks: has she lost her senses? Has she ever considered what this means?

Accepting Ukraine into NATO would be tantamount to a declaration of war against Russia and would immediately set off alarm bells in Moscow. It would raise the prospect of an armed conflict with the worlds second-largest nuclear power, a conflict which could cause millions of deaths in Europe and threaten all of humanity.

It is this combination of aloof complacency, ignorance and aggressiveness that makes the Greens so valuable to the ruling class in promoting their imperialist aims and interests. This is why the Greens are currently being praised to the skies in the German and international media. Baerbock and her co-chair Robert Habeck are currently rushing from one interview to the next.

Sunday was a big day for Baerbock with a long interview in the Frankfurter Allgemeine Sonntagszeitung (FAS) and an appearance on the Anne Will TV talk show the same evening.

The FAS sums up its interview with Baerbock, writing, Green candidate for chancellor pleads for cooperation with America, containment of China and a tougher stance on Russia.

Asked how, as chancellor, she would react to Russias blackmail of Ukraine and whether she would support Kievs request for the delivery of anti-aircraft guns even though Moscow is currently withdrawing troops, Baerbock replied, The threat to Ukraine from Russia remains considerable.

The most important thing, she said, was to ensure the implementation of the Minsk Agreement. The unrestricted access of an OSCE (Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe) observer mission to all parts of Russian-occupied territory must be enforced with the necessary force. This would urgently require more resources for aerial reconnaissance, she added.

Asked whether she would also support military intervention by the Bundeswehr in any region of the world even if a member of the UN Security Council vetoed such an intervention, Baerbock replied that the choice between military action and inaction is sometimes a choice between plague and cholera. She added, There are moments when military action can prevent the worst taking place.

In earlier interviews, the Green candidate for chancellor had already advocated better staffing and material resources for the Bundeswehr. In an interview with the Suddeutsche Zeitung, under the headline Baerbock wants to strengthen the Bundeswehr, she pleaded for an increase in defence spending, the creation of a well-equipped European army and a German-European military policy to better prepare for war.

She once again emphasised in the FAS, Germany and Europe must take more responsibility for their own security. But strategically on the cutting edge. That is why she considers a European cyber defence centre an important contribution to burden sharing on the part of us Europeans.

The demand for two percent of GDP to be spent on the army, she said, was not helpful and did not create more security. Her objection was based on the fact that GDP is currently declining as a result of the pandemic-related economic downturn. According to this logic, our expenditure planning would have to be reduced. That is absurd, Baerbock explained.

Asked by the FAS whether the call in the Green manifesto for EU units with a joint command structure was the blueprint for a European army, Baerbock answered in the affirmative: These are steps in that direction. From my point of view, we have to centralise our capabilities as Europeans. Europes military expenditure is three to four times higher than Russias, but our capabilities are limited because we duplicate many things. Thats not efficient. The European Security and Defence Union urgently needed to be developed and expanded, she said.

Baerbock also gave a positive answer to the question of whether Ukraine and Georgia, which have been pressing for years, should be admitted to NATO. Pressure on Russia to comply with the Minsk Agreement and stabilisation had immediate priority, but Sovereign states decide on their alliances themselves. This also includes the perspective of Ukraine in the EU and in NATO.

Baerbock complained that the current sanctions against Russia were being permanently countered by the German governments adherence to the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline. I would have withdrawn political support for Nord Stream 2 long ago.

In a Spiegel interview, Green former foreign minister Fischer also advocated a definitive halt to the construction of the pipeline and an increase in sanctions against Russia. The sabre rattling from Moscow could no longer be accepted, he declared.

The claim by the Greens and the media that Russia is an aggressive and expansionist power is a grotesque distortion of the facts. June 22 marks 80 years since the German Wehrmacht invaded the Soviet Union and killed 25 million civilians and soldiers in a planned war of extermination. These atrocities are vividly remembered in Russia. Since the dissolution of the Soviet Union 30 years ago, NATO has been advancing ever closer to Russias border. Almost all Eastern European states that were once allied with the Soviet Union, as well as the former Baltic Soviet republics, have joined the Western military alliance.

The crisis in Ukraine was also deliberately provoked by the Western powers. Washington and Berlin organised a coup against the pro-Russian President Viktor Yanukovich in Kiev in early 2014, in close cooperation with fascist forces, and replaced him with the pro-Western oligarch Petro Poroshenko. The Heinrich Boll Foundation of the Greens played a leading role in the coup. Since then, the country has sunk deeper and deeper into civil war and corruption. Conditions for the population have deteriorated drastically.

Support for the coup in Ukraine was part of a deliberate campaign for a more aggressive foreign and great power policy. Germany is too big and economically too strong for us to merely comment on world politics from the sidelines, declared the then foreign minister and current federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier (SPD, Social Democratic Party) at the Munich Security Conference.

One year previously, the Greens participated in the drafting of the SWP paper New Power, New Responsibility, which served as a blueprint for the return of German militarism. Now they see their primary task as imposing this policy for war and militarism in the face of enormous popular opposition.

The interviews with Baerbock and Fischer make one thing clear above all: a new federal government with the participation of the Greenswhether in alliance with the CDU/CSU (Christian Democrats), SPD, Free Democratic Party or Left Partywill only intensify the policy of militarism, domestic rearmament and social cuts.
With the daily official death toll from COVID-19 now well above 3,000 and new infections averaging more than 370,000 per day, India is now the epicentre of the global pandemic.

Across India, there is mounting popular anger over the failure of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Hindu supremacist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government to contain the virus. People are outraged at the lack of oxygen in hospitals, the absence of critical drugs to treat the sick, and the horrific scenes of crematoriums burning bodies round the clock yet still struggling to deal with the influx of corpses.

He [Modi] has lit funeral pyres in every house, Neena, a woman mourning the death of her younger brother Praveen, 50, cried in a video posted April 25 on YouTube by India's weekly magazine Caravan.

Relatives prepare to cremate COVID-19 victims at a ground that has been converted into a crematorium in New Delhi, India, Saturday, May 1, 2021. (Image Credit: AP Photo/Amit Sharma)

The Caravan video, which carries an on-the-spot report from a crematorium at Old Seemapuri, a locality in North-East Delhi, shows bodies of COVID-19 victims being burnt throughout the night as more corpses continue to arrive. Sitting in the crematorium next to the wrapped body of her dead brother, Neena angrily cursed Modi, He has destroyed the whole country. This Modi, for what does he take our votes? Is he taking votes to kill people? She added: Is he going to play his politics on all our funeral pyres? He is watching the spectacle of our pyres.

The weeping woman condemned the lack of health facilities which led to her brothers death, saying, My younger brother, he couldn't get a bed. We roamed across all of Delhi with him but he couldnt get a bed, he couldnt get oxygen. Who is responsible for this? Modi, the Delhi governmentwho is responsible?

Similar grisly tragedies have been playing out on a daily basis as the country's ramshackle healthcare system, particularly in the Delhi National Capital Territory, has been overwhelmed by a tsunami of COVID-19 victims. On May 1, twelve people died at Delhis Batra hospital after an 80-minute disruption of its medical oxygen supply.

The hospital's executive director, Dr. Sudhanshu Bankata, told NDTV that further deaths could not be ruled out, commenting, These are patients whose oxygen levels sank when supply was low... It is hard to revive such patients. The next 24-48 hours are critical  220 patients are currently on oxygen support.

The biggest bottleneck, added Dr. Bankata, in an interview with the Hindustan Times, is that Delhi requires 700MT of oxygen daily but was allocated 490MT, which never comes, Our requirement (depending on the number of ICU and non-ICU beds) was assessed to be 6.5MT but we are allocated only 4.9MT because of this shortage.

The Batra hospital tragedy is one of many. Last week, 25 COVID-19 patients died at Delhis Jaipur Golden hospital when its oxygen supply ran out.

According to Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) head Arvind Kejriwal, Delhi received only 312MT out of its reduced 380 MT oxygen allotment last Friday.

Over the past two weeks, Kejriwal has made repeated desperate appeals to Modis central government for help. As early as April 1, the prime ministers office was warned of an impending catastrophic oxygen shortage. However, not until April 22 did it begin diverting oxygen intended for industry to the countrys overrun hospitals.

The Modi government and its predecessors, whether led by the BJP or the Congress Party, bear responsibility for the current catastrophe. They never spent more than a pathetic 1.5 percent of GDP on public health care. Kejriwals AAP administration and the other opposition-led state governments are also criminally culpable for the unfolding disaster. Despite numerous warnings from scientific experts, they refused to pour massive resources into strengthening medical infrastructure during the 16-month long pandemic. And like the central government, the state governments have all vehemently opposed closing non-essential businesses, providing social support to those affected by the crisis, and other urgently needed public health measures even as Indias COVID-19 infections surged from mid-February onwards.

All indications are that the spread of the pandemic throughout India will continue to accelerate in the days and weeks to come, fueled by new, more infectious and lethal variants and the authorities gross and malign negligence.

On Saturday, daily COVID-19 cases surpassed 400,000-for the first time, with India officially registering 401,993 new infections, a world record. Active cases currently stand at a staggering 3.3 million, which represents almost one-sixth of the 19.16 million cases India has recorded since the pandemic began. After 3,689 daily deaths were recorded Saturday, the official death toll stood at 215,542.

Modi has assured big business that he will not undermine their profit interests by imposing a national lockdown to contain the rampaging pandemic. In his April 20 address to the nation, he vowed, his government would save the country from lockdown, not save the population from the ravages of the virus. He similarly urged state governments to consider lockdowns only as a last resort and focus instead on micro containment measures, so as to keep the economy open and profits rolling in for big business.

Experts, including many of those advising the government, insist that the only way to break the accelerating transmission of the virus is to impose a national lockdown. Some members of the COVID-19 task force, a technical expert body that advises the Central Government are pushing hard for a national lockdown, reported the Indian Express yesterday. The chairperson of this task force, V.K. Paul, reports directly to Prime Minister Modi.

The Express quoted a member of the task force, as saying, The COVID-19 task force is trying to say this very aggressively for the last few weeks. That we should tell the people at the top that we should have a lockdown. Another member commented, A nationwide lockdown rather than what we are doing now, in bits and pieces across states, because of the simple fact that it is spreading all over.

The experts who spoke to the E xpress in support of a national lockdown highlighted three key factors to back their demand. One of them was growing anger building up among overwhelmed health professionals and worker. A member said, They (the doctors) ask why we are not doing anything to contain the spread. We have ambulance after ambulance lined up, patients pleading, perpetual shortage of oxygen cylinders, there is a lot of unrest among doctors. There has to be a pause. Infection among health-care workers is also rising.

Another critical issue the Express reported is the situation emerging in rural India, which needs to be urgently addressed. A task force member elaborated, We dont know what is going to happen there [in rural areas]. Forget critical care infrastructure, small towns and villages arent prepared at all. We cannot live in denial.

The Modi government is doing everything it can to resist demands for a lockdown, which would interrupt the flow of corporate profits to the banks and super-rich to whom it is beholden. This is why it stubbornly ignored weeks of warnings of the calamity now befalling the country. For example, Reuters reported yesterday that the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genetics Consortium or INSACOG, a forum of scientific advisers set up by the government, had warned Indian officials in early March that a new and more contagious double mutant COVID-19 variant had taken hold in the country. Despite the warning, complained four of the five INSACOG scientists who spoke with Reuters, the federal government did not seek to impose major restrictions to stop the spread of the virus.

Quoting Ajay Parida, director of the state-run Institute of Life Science and a member of INSACOG, Reuters continued, INSACOG researchers first detected B.1.617 which is now known as the Indian variant of the virus as early as February. Emphasizing that the new variant of the virus was of high concern, the forum's findingsthat this could more easily enter a human cell and counter a person's immune response to itwere shared with the Indian health ministry before March 10. However, the health ministry delayed its publication for about two weeks (till March 24), and then omitted the words high concern in its media statement, in what can only be described as a deliberate attempt to cover up the danger.

When Reuters asked what lay behind the governments indifference and hostility towards the INSACOGs findings, Shahid Jameel, chair of the scientific advisory group, complained, Authorities were not paying enough attention to the evidence when they set policy. Policy, he added, has to be based on evidence and not the other way around. I am worried that science was not taken into account to drive policy.

As the World Socialist Web Site has alone forcefully argued from the pandemics early stages last spring, the policy that the Modi government and Indian ruling elite and their counterparts across the world have pursued, whatever the official rhetoric, is none other than the murderous, pseudo-scientific policy of herd immunity.

In pursuit of this policy Modi, acting on behalf of the profit interests of Indias CEOs and billionaires, has kept the economy open, allowing the deadly virus to spread unchecked throughout the country. Moreover, this has been done with full knowledge that it would lead to mass death. Last May, as the BJP government was aggressively scaling back lockdown measures, one of Modis health advisors, Jayaprakash Muliyi, cavalierly dismissed the prospect of at least two million Indians dying from the pandemic, saying Mortality is low, let the young go out and work.
For the first quarter of 2021, German airline Lufthansa recorded a loss of 1 billion and simultaneously announced the elimination of a further 10,000 jobs.

An initial announcement of 30,000 redundancies was already increased to 50,000 last year. With the job cuts now unveiled, this figure will rise to 60,000, or more than 43 percent of the 138,000 employees at the airline in 2019. According to company figures, 24,000 full-time jobs have been eliminated over the past 12 months.

Lufthansas finance director, Remco Steenbergen, has threatened to impose compulsory redundancies. Were preparing for layoffs, he warned at the quarterly update. The intention is to cut 10,000 full-time jobs or make comparable savings in staffing costs. This will serve as the pretext for the trade unions to enforce further wage cuts, allegedly with the aim of saving jobs.

Lufthansa Cargo Boeing 777 (Image: Christian Junker / CC BY-SA 2.0)

The trade unions active at Lufthansa, including the service employees union Verdi, the Cockpit Association (VC), and Independent Flight Attendants Organisation (UFO), offered wage concessions to Lufthansa last year totalling 1.3 billion. Cockpit agreed to cut pilots wages by up to 50 percent. As a result, Lufthansa saved some 600 million. The UFO agreed to savings that will cut costs for the airline by half a billion euros by the end of 2023.

Then in November 2020, Verdi gave up employees holiday and Christmas pay, as well as accepting a wage freeze and the suspension of all benefits until the end of 2021. Thus the ground staff are shouldering cost-cutting contributions of over 200 million to overcome the crisis, stated Verdi deputy leader Christine Behele, who is also deputy chair of Lufthansas supervisory board. On the basis of the agreement with ground staff, up to 50 percent of staffing costs for this group of employees could be saved, enthused human resources chief Michael Niggemann.

Wage concessions on such a large scale represent a new dimension of trade union sellouts, as the World Socialist Web Site commented in early December.

The airline is now reporting that operating profits declined to 4 billion, compared to 8.2 billion during the same period a year earlier. Therefore, despite a 60 percent loss of revenue compared to the same period last year, from 6.4 billion in the first quarter of 2020 to 2.6 billion this year, the losses were halved, from 2.1 billion to 1 billion.

The sellout from last year is now entering its second round. The current loss of 1 billion is to be squeezed out of the remaining workforce. The company is currently negotiating with the VC and Verdi unions on further cuts for 2022.

Lufthansa chief executive Karsten Spohr complained that Lufthansa and the Cockpit Association have stumbled in the crisis from one temporary solution to another. The crisis agreement under which pilots salaries are reduced runs out already next March, he added.

He then explained how the cuts are to be made permanent. In December, Lufthansa calculated it had a surplus of 1,000 pilots and co-pilots, or about 20 percent of all cockpit employees. The goal of the current talks between Lufthansa and VC is to cut costs by means of compulsory part-time work. Ultimately, five pilots will then do the job of four, everyone flies 80 percent and nobody has to leave, stated Spohr. It hardly needs to be noted that wages will also be cut by 20 percent.

VC has already declared its support for such part-time arrangements for the 5,000 pilots at Lufthansa, Lufthansa Cargo, GermanWings, and Lufthansa Aviation Training (LAT).

The situation at Lufthansa Cargo demonstrates that these job and wage cuts are not simply the result of the coronavirus pandemic. While all passenger airlines have recorded losses, Lufthansas freight business made record profits. This is not only because passenger aircraft are serving as freight carriers. Due to the increased demand for freight and a limited supply of providers, prices are currently high. Lufthansa Cargo earned an operating profit of 314 million.

Nonetheless, Lufthansa announced two months ago that it will lay off close to half of its freight pilots. The industry website aero.de reported in early February, While Lufthansa Cargo went into the crisis year 2020 with 475 pilots, the airline plans in the future to employ just 250 freight pilots, according to sources associated with the company.

One pilot told the website, Weve been flying to the limit for our Lufthansa over recent months, and now our wages will be cut from August and freight contracts increasingly outsourced to Aerologic. The atmosphere is boiling over. Aerologic is a joint venture between DHL and Lufthansa Cargo, and does not operate with collective agreements. The wages at this cheap-labour subsidiary are therefore lower than at the parent companies.

This way of doing business will be familiar to readers of the World Socialist Web Site. Several airlines and air travel companies operate according to this business model. At WISAG Ground Service at Frankfurt Airport, 230 baggage handling and bus workers have been struggling for six months to defend their jobs.

In December, WISAG laid off employees who had worked for decades at the airport because they refused to switch to another subsidiary and give up all of the rights they had laboured to achieve. The billionaire Wisser family is now employing temporary contract workers on lower wages to perform the work of the experienced, laid-off workers.

While workers are being bled dry on the pretext of the coronavirus pandemic, the board of directors and shareholders are using the pandemic to gorge on billions of euros.

Early last year, the federal government handed Lufthansa a bailout programme of 9 billion. This led to a rapid rise in the companys stock value and increased the wealth of shareholders. At the same time, it was used to finance the restructuring programme.

The fact that companies receiving state support are prohibited from paying out performance-based bonuses to managers has largely been ignored by the Lufthansa board. According to a report in Der Spiegel, a legal report produced by the law professor Dirk Verse in January on behalf of the supervisory board came to the conclusion that company management can make good on their claim to certain long-term performance-based benefits that were granted prior to the states intervention.

At the Lufthansa supervisory board meeting on March 3, the paying of this portion of bonuses was to have been confirmed. The federal government intervened, not because they didnt want the executives to have the bonuses, but because the payments violated European competition law and could have played into the hands of Lufthansas European rivals.

Lufthansas directors and supervisory board are now determined to end their dependence on taxpayers money. This would clear the way for bonus payments, and even dividend payouts to shareholders.

At the beginning of April, Lufthansa announced that at its annual shareholders meeting on Tuesday it will ask shareholders to vote on a capital injection of 5.5 billion in order to pay back the government bailout. According to Spiegel Online, the airlines management has only used around 3 billion of the bailout funds to date, and instead sought to raise money over recent months on the private capital market. As a result, Lufthansa has already paid back a 1 billion loan from the state-controlled KFW Bank ahead of schedule.

If management is demanding a reduction in staffing costs, the trade unions subserviently rush to oblige. And when the issue is rescuing the multi-million-euro incomes of top executives, the trade union representatives on the supervisory board are only too happy to assist. They are handsomely rewarded for doing so. In 2019, the 10 so-called employee representatives on the Lufthansa supervisory board earned over 1 million for their close collaboration in drafting cost-cutting proposals and job cuts.

It is high time to break with these corrupt organisations. Jobs, wages, and social achievements can only be defended independently of the trade unions. To coordinate this fight globally, the International Committee of the Fourth International is calling for the formation of the International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees.
Striking bus drivers in Manchester, England were told Friday that Go North West has withdrawn its threat to impose fire and rehire contracts, just one week before the deadline of May 8 to sign or face mass dismissals.

Pickets at the Queens Road depot were provided with champagne to celebrate after nine weeks of strike action by 400 drivers against a threatened 10 percent pay cut of up to 2,500 a year and a reduction in sick pay of 67 percent by Go-Ahead, parent company of Go North West.

But bus workers should beware of union bureaucrats claiming imminent victory!

Unite has conducted negotiations behind their backs, with no details released of the terms of the new agreement being sought by the company in return for reportedly withdrawing its threat. The union is still in internal discussions over how to present the documents it has received from Go Ahead as the basis of an agreement to be put to the membership.

The Go North West picket line at the Queens Road depot on the first day of the strike (credit: WSWS Media)

At an online meeting of Solidarity Shouts groupself-described as a Unite activists networkon Friday evening, Unite Senior Rep at Go North West, Colin Hayden, announced to much fanfare that the fire and rehire contracts had been torn up. But he said nothing about the revised terms being offered, other than admitting they were inferior.

Our conditions are not the same as what they were, however, they are not what they were in the fire and rehire contracts, he said, before emphasising, We have managed to get the CEO to the table.

Unite has stressed throughout the dispute that the fire and rehire threat was unnecessarily confrontational and that cuts should instead be imposed by the union bureaucracy through normal channels. An indication of the rotten deal being discussed is the fact that Unite previously offered 1.3 million pounds worth of cuts during arbitration talks with the company in March. Go North West refused that offer, indicating that Unite is now discussing still more savage attacks.

At a recent online meeting held by Unite, supposedly to organise solidarity with Go North West, pro-Jeremy Corbyn Labour MP for Salford and Eccles, Rebecca Long-Bailey, stated approvingly, I know that Unite the union had been attempting to negotiate with the company to reach some form of compromise to try and sort this out. They even presented a range of financial proposals. They offered a revised sick pay scheme. They extended the unpaid time during meal breaks as requested by the company which would have impacted on the working hours of bus drivers and they said that they would do that temporarily for a period of two years.

After taking 60 days of strike action, it is clear that Unite is trying to bounce Go North West bus drivers into accepting still greater attacks.

Unite acts as a police force over its members on behalf of management. It was reluctantly forced to call action at Queens Road depot, only to insist that the issue at stake was the unions right to continue to negotiate away hard-won terms and conditions. Meanwhile Unite did everything possible to isolate the dispute and oppose any spread to other garages.

A union with a transport membership of 95,000 spread across 150 companies has not mobilised a single bus worker at any other garage in Manchester or nationally in support of Go North West strikers. This allowed Go-Ahead to run a massive strike breaking operation from an alternative depot in Greater Manchester.

Meanwhile in London, Unite has sabotaged strikes at RATP against low pay and zero-hour contracts and is suppressing a 97 percent mandate for strike action at Metroline against Remote Sign On (RSO). Taken collectively this constitutes a third of all bus drivers employed in the capital.

Any genuine mobilisation of bus drivers behind the Go North West strike would have cut across the unions orientation to the Go-Ahead boardroom, its investors and Boris Johnsons Conservative government, to whom Unite has promised itself as a guarantor of continued profitability.

Fire and rehire contracts have become a favoured weapon in a frontal assault on the working class. The attempt to present unionised workplaces as a bedrock for opposing this is being completely exposed during the two longest running disputes over this question, Go North West and British Gas.

At British Gas, the GMB union collaborated in imposing the fire and rehire contracts after over 40 days of strike action by around 7,000 engineers by telling strikers they had to sign by the April 14 deadline. This allowed an estimated 500 workers who defied the ultimatum to be dismissed.

Go North West is not the first time Unite has demobilised the fight against fire and rehire. At SPS Technologies in Leicester, which supplies parts to the aerospace industry, around 200 Unite members staged more than 10 days of strike action during March and April against fire and rehire contracts. The contracts included reductions in overtime pay, sick pay, paid breaks and shift premiums and amounted to 3,000 a year wage cut. Unite suspended the strike in April after the company scrapped the fire and rehire policy in exchange for the union ramming through revised terms and conditions that imposed at least half the cuts originally demanded. More will almost certainly follow.

This was the last victory proclaimed by Unite. The union sent its members back to work with Unite Regional Officer, Lakhy Mahal, commenting, Their strength and solidarity has resulted in a deal that protects their incomes and that allows them to return to work with their heads held high.

The only incomes protected by Unite are those of SPS Technologies owners and shareholders. Unite had pointed to the fact that the company is owned by Warren Buffetts multinational conglomerate, Berkshire Hathaway. Buffett became the sixth richest man in the world, with his personal wealth hitting $100 billion the same month as the dispute began, and with the conglomerates stock price soaring by 34 percent during the pandemic.

The faux outrage of the unions over the disgraceful treatment of workers and obscene profiteering is a tap to be turned on and off. It ends when they are included as junior partners with the companies.

Any opposition to a sellout deal at Go North West requires a reorientation of the dispute. This begins by taking it out of the hands of Unite and turning to the working class through the building and development of rank-and-file committees across the sectional divides maintained by the union.

Workers need genuine defensive organisations of struggle, which are answerable to them, not trade unions who are beholden to the companies and their profit drive.

The demand must be: No compromise with Go North Wests cuts! Workers lives and their rights and terms are non-negotiable. The unions use the term key worker only to dull class consciousness and imply that workers and the companies are striving to achieve common goals. But it underlines an essential political truththat the working class is the sole producer of wealth and without it society does not function.

The pandemic has provided terrible proof on a world-wide basis that the basic needs of society are incompatible with the drive by capitalism to maximise profits. As with every major problem which confronts society todaysocial inequality, the attack on democratic rights and the danger of warthe solution is only to be found in the unified and co-ordinated response of the international working class. This is the perspective advanced by the International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 21:27:34|Editor: huaxia

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ANKARA, May 3 (Xinhua) -- A Turkish delegation of ministers and intelligence head paid a visit to Libya's capital Tripoli on Monday, Turkish foreign ministry said in a written statement.

The delegation is composed of Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu, Defense Minister Hulusi Akar and head of National Intelligence Organization Hakan Fidan, the statement said, noting that the talks would address bilateral and regional issues.

Turkey's Chief of General Staff Yasar Guler is also part of the delegation, the defense ministry said in a separate statement.

The visit is the first of its kind from Turkey since Libya's new unity government is formed in March.

Libya's new unity government Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibah visited Turkish capital Ankara on April 12 with a delegation of ministers to hold the Turkey-Libya High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council meeting.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Dbeibah affirmed cooperation between the two countries during the visit and endorsed existing economic agreements.

Turkey had backed the Tripoli-based Government of National Accord (GNA) against the eastern-based Libyan National Army (LNA) during the years of conflict.

In 2019, Ankara and Libya's UN-backed government signed two memorandums of understanding on military cooperation and maritime boundaries in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Libya had been politically divided between eastern and western governments for years before the Government of National Unity was approved recently by the House of Representatives. Enditem
On Saturday May 1, the International Committee of the Fourth International (ICFI) and the World Socialist Web Site (WSWS) held the annual International Online May Day Rally. The rally motivated the formation of the International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees (IWA-RFC).

The rally was a major international event. It attracted a global audience of over 2,000 participants from 73 countries. There were attendees from the United States, Great Britain, Sri Lanka, Australia, Canada, India, France, Brazil, the Philippines, Turkey, Thailand, Spain, Pakistan, Japan, Mexico, Iran, Israel, Russia, South Africa, Nigeria, and many other countries.

Fourteen speakers addressed the rally, including leading representatives of the International Committee of the Fourth International from 10 countries: France, the UK, Germany, Sri Lanka, Turkey, Brazil, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the United States. Speeches were delivered in seven different languages: English, German, French, Tamil, Sinhalese, Turkish and Portuguese.

International May Day Online Rally 2021

The event was moderated by Socialist Equality Party (US) National Secretary Joseph Kishore, and the introductory report was delivered by WSWS International Editorial Board Chairman David North.

In his opening report, North drew attention to the massive scale of death caused by the coronavirus pandemic. Exactly one year ago, he said, on May 1, 2020, the total global pandemic death toll had reached 240,000. Today, the number of people who have died stands at almost 3,200,000  a more than 13-fold increase.

North indicted capitalist governments around the world for their responsibility in refusing to take the necessary measures to save lives. Far from approaching the end of the crisis, North explained, the pandemic has profoundly destabilized the entire world capitalist system. Not only is the world not approaching the end of the pandemic, or even the beginning of the end, what initially began as a medical crisis has metastasized into a fundamental economic, social, and political crisis of the entire world capitalist order.

North highlighted in particular the significance of the speech given by US President Joe Biden before the joint session of Congress just four days before the rally. North explained that far more significant than the vague promises of half-measures and quarter-measures offered by Biden was the accelerating US war drive against China and Bidens call for the US to win the 21st century against its major rivals.

The Biden administration is aggressively promoting the official unions to suppress social resistance in the working class. [T]he obliteration of any form of independent working-class organization in a government-sponsored labor movementcompletely integrated into the capitalist state along corporatist linesis a strategic imperative for American imperialism as it prepares, under conditions of profound economic crisis, for what is seen in ruling circles as an inevitable confrontation with China.

It was within this framework that North explained the role of the International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File-Committees. North explained:

That is why the International Committee of the Fourth International has issued the call for the formation of the International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees (IWA-RFC). The aim of this global initiative is to develop a genuine broad-based movement of the international working class; and to encourage workers in all countries to break out of the prison-like shackles in which they are confined by the existing state-controlled and anti-democratic unions, staffed by right-wing pro-capitalist executives. The IWA-RFC will strive to break down national barriers, oppose all efforts to undermine class unity through the promotion of racial, ethnic and related forms of identity politics, and facilitate the coordination of class struggle on an international scale. It will, through these efforts to unify workers across national boundaries, contribute mightily toward the creation of a global movement to counteract and prevent the drive toward war.

North concluded: In its efforts to assist workers in the formation and building of the IWA-RFC, the International Committee of the Fourth International, its affiliated Socialist Equality parties, and the World Socialist Web Site will seek to impart to these efforts a clear international strategy, to explain the connection between local struggles and the unfolding global struggle of the working class against capitalism and imperialism.

All the speeches were based on a unified global perspective, explaining the state of the pandemic, the responsibility of the capitalist governments, and the role of the trade unions. They motivated the call for the formation of the IWA-RFC and the building of the ICFI as the revolutionary socialist leadership of the working class.

Four of the speakers represented sections of the International Committee of the Fourth International in Europe: Christoph Vandreier, deputy national secretary of the Sozialistische Gleichheitspartei, and candidate in the upcoming German federal elections; Chris Marsden, national secretary of the Socialist Equality Party (UK); Thomas Scripps, assistant national secretary of the SEP (UK), and Alex Lantier, national secretary of the Parti de l'egalite socialiste in France.

Scripps spoke powerfully in defense of WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange, who remains locked up in a maximum security prison in London for revealing the crimes of American imperialism.

From Turkey, Ulas Atesci, a leading member of Sosyalist Esitlik, the Socialist Equality Group of Turkey, spoke on the danger of nuclear war, the social crisis in Turkey and the complicity of the trade unions in the back-to-work and back-to-school policies. Denouncing the various bourgeois and petty bourgeois parties and organizations, Atesci declared: These parties, subordinated to imperialism, are incapable of defending democratic or social rights. That task falls to the international working class, fighting to overthrow capitalism as part of the world socialist revolution.

Three of those addressing the rally spoke to the situation in South Asia, including India, which is now an epicenter of the pandemic, with daily reports of a horrific level of death and human suffering. This included Keith Jones, the national secretary of the SEP in Canada, who is an expert in South Asian politics and history.

Particularly significant were two speakers from Sri Lanka, Deepal Jayasekera, assistant national secretary of the SEP, who spoke in Sinhalese, and M. Thevarajah, a member of the national committee of the SEP, who spoke in Tamil. The two remarks embodied the struggle of the SEP to unify the working masses of Sri Lanka against the Sinhala chauvinism of the Sri Lankan state as well as Tamil nationalism.

We call upon the working class in South Asia to politically and organizationally break from those treacherous parties and unions and unify their struggles to defend social democratic rights, and to form their own rank-and-file committees, said Jayasekara, explaining that the fight for socialism must be based on internationalism and Trotskys Theory of Permanent Revolution.

From Latin America, Tomas Castanheira, a leading member of the Socialist Equality Group in Brazil, spoke on the terrible toll the pandemic has wrought in the country, with a reported 80,000 dead from COVID-19 in April, making it the deadliest month of the pandemic in Brazil so far. As is the case throughout the world, Castanheira noted that, the unions actively worked to demobilize working class resistance against the murderous capitalist policies.

A progressive solution to the crisis in Brazil is impossible without a definitive break with the unions and all forces of the national bourgeoisie, said Castanheira.

Four of those addressing the rally spoke from Australia and the South Pacific: Nick Beams, a longtime leader of the ICFI and an authority on Marxist political economy, who spoke on the world economic situation; Cheryl Crisp, national secretary of the SEP (Australia); Tom Peters, leading member of the Socialist Equality Group (New Zealand), and Peter Symonds, WSWS Australia National Editor, who reviewed the US war drive against China.

Joseph Kishore ended the meeting by stressing the historic and global character of the event. The speakers have advanced a global perspective to a global audience, to build a global movement of the working class against a global crisis, said Kishore.

Kishore concluded by making a strong call for all listening to take up the fight for the IWA-RFC and to join the Socialist Equality Party and build the ICFI.

Objective reality impels the working class toward socialist revolution. But what is possible must be acted on. It is not enough to criticize the state of the world. The task is to change it. The fundamental task is the building of a socialist leadership.
The April 21 call by over 20 retired French military generals, published in the neo-fascist magazine Valeurs Actuelles, for the safeguarding of the nation, including through a military intervention and the deaths of thousands in France, has lifted the veil on a mortal crisis of the political regime.

In 2017, then-presidential candidate Emmanuel Macron urged a vote for himself against Marine Le Pen in the name of opposing the danger of fascism. Since then, he has relied relentlessly on the security forces to repress yellow vest protesters, students and striking railway workers mobilised against his austerity policies. His government is now pursuing a murderous policy in response to the pandemic, has put in place a repressive global security law and is pushing through a new law against what his government claims is an Islamist separatist threat. Under these conditions, it is clear that the Macron government itself is incubating neo-fascist cliques in the state apparatus.

Any major crisis unmasks the role of political tendencies. While the Socialist Equality Party (PES) calls for the independent mobilisation of workers against the danger of a far-right coup, Jean-Luc Melenchons Unsubmissive France is encouraging the working class to rely on the action of Macron and the top military brass.

Jean-Luc Melenchon (Wikimedia Commons)

At a press conference on Wednesday, Melenchon complacently downplayed the danger of a neo-fascist putsch. He asked the population not to confuse this handful of agitators, who will be punished, with the army of the Republic, which for the most part is faithful to its obligations to the country.

Melenchon denounced any attempt at insurrection, calling on Macron to restore order in the state apparatus. Directing or organising an insurrectionary movement is punishable by life imprisonment and a 750,000 fine, he said, demanding that the government crack down on the same security forces that Macron has been applauding since he took office.

So we must punish the guilty, and we demand the punishment of the guilty. We ask that the Minister of Justice do his job.  We demand that the public prosecutor initiate proceedings, Melenchon said. He drew up a long list of senior officials whom he invited to intervene against the coup generals, starting with the Minister of the Armed Forces, Florence Parly.

We ask that the military intelligence services, two of whose retirees have signed this text, sift through it and find out who is active and who is really retired. Of those who are active, we ask that they be struck off the army. .... I ask her [Parly] to tell us where she stands on the punishment of those who had infiltrated the army and organised small gatherings of Nazis. Have they been expelled from the army? Are there others? Have investigations taken place?

The main purpose of this intervention is to put workers to sleep. His attempts to reassure his voters that the coup plotters do not currently have the majority of the army with them are worthless. Thousands of officers who signed the appeal, linked to the right-wing press and to the neo-fascist presidential candidacy of Marine Le Pen, are thinking toward a military intervention on French soil, whose deaths, as the generals wrote, will number in the thousands.

The question is not only how to stop a neo-fascist putsch, but also how to undermine the drive to military dictatorship. Yet this process is not linked to the forces around Marine Le Pen alone. The Macron government itself, with its violent police repression and its anti-democratic laws, is just one of the governments driving the collapse of democracy.

Macrons own silence on these coup threats speaks volumes about the impotence of Melenchons calls on the government to stop the coup plotters. This silence is not just a personal mistake by Macron, but part of an international and historic collapse of democratic and electoral norms.

Earlier this year, on January 6, 2021, US President Donald Trump launched an attempted putsch on Capitol Hill in Washington D.C., in an attempt to prevent the US Congress from certifying the election victory of his opponent, Joe Biden. Trump attempted the coup in the face of widespread working class opposition to him and his deadly, openly laissez-faire policy on the pandemic. Security forces only stopped the putsch at the last minute, after the Pentagon delayed the deployment of the National Guard for several critical hours.

The entire ruling class in Europe knows that anger is rising among workers against economic inequality and the criminal herd immunity policy pursued by governments. While Europe is in its deepest economic crisis since the 1930s, it has seen more than a million coronavirus deaths. On the other hand, its billionaires have become $1 trillion richer in a year.

Sitting on a volcano and fearing a social eruption at any moment, the ruling class is preparing to protect itself through the repression of opposition and strengthening of the state. This also promotes the growth of fascist forces, in the police and among army officers, who are terrified of the social anger they feel rising around them, and know they are indispensable to Macron and the Fifth Republic.

To pull the rug out from under the feet of the neo-fascist generals requires the independent mobilisation of the working class. This is the only perspective upon which a fight can be waged, confiscating the 2 trillion handed to the corporate elite in bailouts over the past year, imposing a scientific health policy to stop the virus and preventing the drive toward a police state, by transferring power to the workers, the vast majority of the population.

While Melenchon rejects any independent mobilisation of the working class, even his warnings about the dangers posed by the army are intended to lull his audience to sleep. He points out that the letter appeared on the 60th anniversary of the Algiers putsch of April 21, 1961, during the Algerian war, led by generals hostile to President Charles de Gaulles preparations to grant independence to Algeria. He states:

The 21st is the anniversary of the putsch of the felonious generals in Algeria. ... I was a bit surprised not to find more people protesting against such a document. This is the first time, in a civilised country, since the events I mentioned a moment ago, those of the Algerian war, that is to say 50 [sic] years ago, that we see retired military personnel in France intervening as a group to appeal to their active-duty colleagues to intervene, in order to reestablish I dont know what vague civilizational values.

If Melenchon suggests that he is taking de Gaulles response to the 1961 coup as a model, it is a decoy and a political trap for workers.

De Gaulle stopped the 1961 putsch by calling on the army to disobey the orders of the generals and on the French population to support him against the putschists, whose support came from the European colonists in Algeria and from sections of General Francos fascist regime in Madrid. The French army, which was still a conscript army at the time, refused to support the putschists. The few units of paratroopers, colonial troops and the Foreign Legion loyal to the putschists were quickly isolated, and the coup attempt collapsed.

In 2021, Melenchon is trying to build a coalition between the Macron government, the PS, Unsubmissive France and the trade union apparatuses against the far-right coup plotters, under transformed objective conditions. Not only has Macron remained deafeningly silent about the attempted coup, but the French army has an entirely different character. The professional army, experienced in the bloody crimes of the neo-colonial wars in Mali and Afghanistan, looks much more like the paratroopers of the 1960s than the conscripts of the time.

Above all, the economic foundations of European capitalism are completely rotten. De Gaulle relied on the support of the Stalinist French Communist Party (PCF), which had a mass working class base, and on the economic boom of the Trente Glorieuses (1945-1975), which was then in full swing. Macron comes at the end of 30 years of austerity across Europe, following the Stalinist dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, and a million deaths in Europe (and 100,000 in France) from coronavirus.

Macron hailed the collaborationist dictator Philippe Petain as a great soldier in 2018, before launching the riot police against the yellow vest protesters, precisely because he himself relies on neo-fascist sentiments in the state apparatus against popular opposition.

The profound shift to the right of the capitalist political establishment in France has profoundly transformed the political forces that Melenchon appeals to. While Industry Minister Agnes Pannier-Runacher and former PS presidential candidate Benoit Hamon all linked the current putschists to those of Algiers in 1961, Melenchon suggested that he would easily form a political front with them:

We are not demanding any kind of exclusivity in the capacity to respond to the situation. And besides, Im sure that, in addition to those who have already expressed themselves, and who did well to do so without delay, we will be heard and that we will consult each other.

The working class must be warned: the forces that Melenchon wants to mobilise will do nothing against the danger of a neo-fascist coup. This is demonstrated by Melenchons Spanish allies, the Podemos party led by Pablo Iglesias. They have been politically complicit in threats by neo-fascist officers to launch a coup to kill 26 million left-wing voters and break up any opposition to the policy of herd immunity pursued by the ruling social democrats and Podemos.

As deputy prime minister, Iglesias denied that there was a danger of a coup, even after the publication of WhatsApp text messages in which the generals applauded Franco, fascism and called for massacres of the left. On TVE1 TV, he said: What these gentlemen say, at their age and retired, in a chat, having had too much to drink, poses no threat.

Melenchon is only putting workers in France to sleep in a different way in the face of the threat of a neo-fascist coup. The organisations on which he bases himself, particularly the trade unions, have severed any connection to the working class. Indeed, the CGT reacted to the threats in Valeurs A ctuelles by indicating that it intends to deepen its integration into the military and intelligence community. The Stalinist union federation said in a statement:

This affair confirms the need to strengthen citizen control of areas affecting defence. The CGT underlines, in this respect, that the High Council of the Military Reserve, on which it sits, no longer meets at the frequency provided for in its rules. It is however an essential place for citizens intervention and the indispensable link between the Army and the Nation. It is for this very reason that the CGT is in favour of recognising the right to unionise within a confederate framework for the military.

There is a profound opposition, rooted in history, among the workers of France and Europe to the danger of the extreme right. The decisive question is to break through the complacent propaganda of pseudo-left forces like Melenchon, and to organise the workers opposition independently of the national trade union apparatuses to fight the pandemic and the danger of a coup. In France, this requires the building of the PES as an alternative to failed pseudo-left politicians like Melenchon.
The tragic death of a young teenage girl in Brampton, Ontario has brought home the terrifying reality to parents across Canada that despite what they have been told by the political and media establishment, they can lose their young children to COVID-19. On April 22, Emily Victoria Viegas became one of the youngest Canadians to die from the disease when she was found unresponsive by her brother in their shared bedroom.

In a scenario that is all too common for working class families across the country, COVID-19 spread throughout Emilys family. Emilys mother was in hospital on oxygen at the time of her daughters death, and her younger brother had also contracted the virus. Emilys father, Carlos Viegas, a warehouse worker, was the only member of the family not to test positive for the virus, but both Brampton schools and warehouses have been ravaged by COVID-19 infections.

13 year-old Emily Viegas (Facebook)

Because the provinces ICUs are overwhelmed with COVID-19 patients and falsely believing his daughters life was not in danger, Carlos did not seek hospital treatment for Emily.

Emilys tragic, entirely preventable death has triggered an outpouring of anger towards the political elite and solidarity with the stricken family across Canada. A fundraiser to support the family gathered donations of over $112,000 in a matter of days. A rural family doctor wrote on Twitter, NO MORE CROCODILE TEARS. A Brampton family has lost their 13 yr. old child. Her mother remains in hospital. This hard hit area was supposed to have been prioritized for vaccines, but promises arent action. [Ontario Premier Doug Ford] tell us the concrete actions youre taking now or RESIGN. A parent tweeted, I hear calls not to politicize Emily Viegas death. My son died from failed public health measures. I desperately wish every single politician in the last five years had taken Judes death as a call to action so thered never be another family like mine. Fix whats broken.

Emily Victoria Viegass death did not occur in a vacuum. It was the direct result of the policy decisions made by the Justin Trudeau-led federal Liberal government, Ontarios Conservative government and their counterparts across the country, at the behest of Canadas capitalist elite. The most consequential of these decisions was to prioritize the protection of corporate profits over human lives, keep the economy and schools open at all costs, and refuse to provide adequate financial support so that families like Emilys could shelter safely at home until the pandemic was contained.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford was one of the first politicians to declare that the teenaged girls death was heart-wrenching and that it serves as a devastating reminder of what this virus can do.

One could counter that it also serves as a devastating reminder of what the federal and Ontario Governments policy of putting the economy and profits before people has done to workers and their families.

This is what refusing to give Ontarios essential workers, like Emily Victoria Viegass father Carlos, paid sick days has done. This is what refusing to shut down warehouses and factories like Amazon that are major vectors of transmission has done. This is also what the blatant lies about children not being at risk from COVID-19 have done.

Brampton provides an especially stark example of the devastating consequences of the ruling elites profits before lives strategy. With many industrial worksites and distribution warehouses, the city to Torontos northwest has seen the virus rip through its crowded apartment blocks, where predominantly low-income and precariously employed workers live. The test positivity rate in the city was recently reported at a staggering 20 percent.

The new COVID-19 variants of concern are hitting both younger and healthier Canadians significantly harder than the original strain. A recent Toronto Star report noted that since March 1, 60,000 Ontarians in their 20s or younger have become infected during the third wavean astonishing 40 percent of all new cases. This is a far higher share of overall infections than what this cohort experienced during the first two waves.

Emily is not the first young person to endure a horrific death in recent weeks. A 16-year-old boy fell victim to the virus in Montreal in early April, becoming the youngest Canadian up until that point to have died from COVID-19. Since then, a 2-year-old has died in British Columbia, which is experiencing a devastating surge in cases of the new variants, and it has been revealed that a baby in BC died of COVID-19 in January. On April 26, Sarah Strate, a 17-year-old Grade 12 student from Alberta with no previous health issues, died suddenly less than a week after being exposed to COVID-19.

The new variants of concern have shattered the lying propaganda that schools are safe, and that children are not likely to catch the disease and become sickenedlet alone face possible death. While these were always lies aimed at providing propaganda cover for the ruling elite to keep schools open as holding pens for children so that their parents could return to work churning out profits for big business, the human cost of this deception is increasing as the third wave progresses.

Not only are children suffering, but as public health authorities in Montreal and Peel Region, of which Brampton is a part, have been forced to acknowledge, open schools are major vectors of community transmission and have contributed hugely to Canadas devastating third wave of the pandemic.

Predictably enough, the education trade unions have made absolutely clear that they intend to do nothing to protect teachers and young people from the more infectious and lethal variants.

They played no role in the Ford governments decision, announced on April 12 just the day after Education Minister Stephen Lecce had vowed schools would reopen after that weeks Spring Break shutdown, to order a temporary, open-ended return to online teaching.

And rather than fighting to keep schools closed and ensure teachers, students and parents have the resources they need to meet the educational, social and psychological challenges of online education, the teachers unions stand in the front rank of the political forces demanding a return to dangerous classrooms as soon as possible. As Ontario Secondary School Teachers Federation President Harvey Bischof declared in a statement just a week prior to Emilys death, We believe that students learn and receive supports and services best when they are in-person in school, something that the Minister of Education has echoed many times. Its time that this government comes up with a clear plan based on evidence-informed medical advice to allow front-line education staff immediate access to vaccinations and keep schools open safely.

The fact that larger numbers of younger people are facing more serious outcomes during the third wave of the pandemic, including an increase in premature deaths, raises many questions that teachers, parents and students are not being given answers to by the political elite and corporate-controlled media. Will Ford and Lecce persist with their reckless attempts to reopen Ontarios schools before the current school year ends in late June? Will all teachers and support staff be fully vaccinated before September? Will all children from K-12 be vaccinated when the new school year begins?

The growth in suffering and death for children, young people, and working class families underscores the urgency of taking up the struggle for the program fought for by the Cross-Canada Educators Rank-and-File Safety Committee. The CERSC demands an immediate end to all in-person learning and the shutdown of all nonessential production until the pandemic is over, with full compensation for all workers and families impacted. These socially necessary measures, which are imperative if thousands of human lives are to be saved over the coming weeks and months, can be funded through the expropriation of the ill-gotten gains of the billionaires and ruling class as a whole, which has profited handsomely from mass death.

We encourage everyone who agrees with this program to make plans to attend the next meeting of the CERSC, which will take place at 1 p.m. eastern time on Sunday, May 9. Email us at cersc.csppb@gmail.com for further information.
The amendment to Germanys Infection Protection Act, passed last week, reinforces the governments reckless contagion policy in schools and threatens the health of thousands of students and educators.

New COVID-19 infections in Germany have averaged around 20,000 per day in recent weeks. That is more than three times the total at the peak of the first lockdown. According to the latest report by the renowned Robert Koch Institute (RKI), coronavirus infection figures have increased among younger people, largely due to the opening up of schools.

The RKI assesses the threat to the health of the population as very high. Particularly threatening are the increasing mass outbreaks in day-care centres, schools and workplaces. This is especially dangerous against the background of the rapid spread of British, South African and Brazilian variants, which are more contagious and frequently lead to severe health consequences, including among younger people.

Pupils crowd into a school centre in Dortmund-Hacheney

Since autumn, 335 pupils, 129 teachers and 182 other educators are reported to have been hospitalised because of COVID-19. Three teachers and six education care staff have died from the disease. The number of unreported cases is much higher, with information only available for those officially registered as infected.

As the World Socialist Web Site has already reported, the governments coronavirus emergency brake is utterly ineffective. It stipulates that nationwide in-person classes will continue as long as the seven-day incidence figure for infections does not exceed 165 per 100,000.

Scientists have been saying for months that this level is much too high. When German schools were due to reopen after summer holidays last year, the RKI recommended schools adopt reduced alternate teaching rotas based on an incidence of 35 and to revert to online, distance teaching when the incidence reached 50.

The fact that the value of 165 is purely arbitrary and has no scientific basis can be seen from the fact that only 170 districts closed schools despite high infection levels after the emergency brake was applied much too late. In addition, according to the RKI, incidence levels among 5-14-year-olds, i.e., the group that goes to school, is significantly higher than among the rest of the population. For this younger age group, the incidence is above 165 in 277 regions and between 100 and 165 in 93 regions.

In the state of Saxony, where schools remained open before the emergency brake came into effect, irrespective of infection levels, the incidence rate among 15- to 19-year-olds was 367 last week. The highest level was in the Zwickau district with 579. In the city of Chemnitz, the incidence among 10- to 14-year-olds reached a record level of almost 700.

Final year classes, special schools and emergency care for children that far exceeds what is absolutely necessary are exempt from closure in all federal states, even after the emergency brake came into force. Many federal states have in addition decided on their own exceptions to the nationally agreed measures.

In the states of Bavaria, Lower Saxony, Saxony and Saxony-Anhalt, grade 4 and final grade students remain in alternating classes, regardless of the incidence rate. In Bavaria, Lower Saxony and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania schools had previously been closed at an incidence of 100, which means the emergency brake has no effect and amounts to an easing of the lockdown in these states.

In the state of Hesse, grades 1 to 6 returned to alternate teaching last Monday, with grade 7 due to return on May 6.

Schleswig-Holstein, which currently still has the most schools closed and the lowest incidence of all the federal states at 75, plans to bring all grades back into alternate teaching on May 3.

Baden-Wurttemberg, which introduced alternate teaching for all grades at the end of the Easter break, is currently recording the biggest increase in new infections, an increase of 14 percent last week alone. The state government had already set an incidence limit of 165 before the emergency brake was introduced, but according to the Education Ministry this was only to give schools a better chance to plan for a further opening up. This opening up has already begun, with physical education classes for grades 11 and 12 once again being held in person.

In Brandenburg, grades 1 to 6 will remain in alternating classes until May 3, even if the incidence rate of 165 is exceeded. From May 3, grade 9 and final students are also due to return to in-person teaching.

The most relaxations in pandemic regulations have been made in the state of Thuringia, which is governed by a so-called red-red-green coalition (Social Democratic Party, Left Party and the Greens). The state currently has the highest incidence rate in Germany. Although only five out of 23 districts in the state are below an incidence of 165, all 10th-12th graders will continue in-person learning.

With incidence rates far above 165 prevailing in some districts, Berlin continues to keep schools open for grades 6, 9 and 10 as well as for final grade students.

Already at the beginning of the second wave of infections, school openings were justified on the basis of lies and deceptions, combining the deliberate withholding of studies demonstrating the true rate of infections in schools and the promotion of unscientific studies depicting the absence of outbreaks in what were deserted institutions.

Once again, this policy is being promoted with criminal energy. Already in March, SWR media reported that the district of Calw was deliberately removing traceable mass outbreaks from its incidence statistics to lower the level and make the case for opening up.

In addition, delays in reporting new infections leads to a temporary lowering of incidence rates, which in turn means that regulations linked to the incidence rate are delayed or do not come into force at all. Scientists such as the epidemiologist Dr. Ralph Brinks are already warning of an undermining of incidence values.

The extent to which incidence values are manipulated became apparent immediately after the emergency brake was passed. In Berlin, according to Die Welt, on day two of the new rules, seven out of twelve districts no longer reported any new cases and another district reported virtually none. The district of Lippe, which reported an incidence of 200 just a few days before, suddenly reported an incidence of 162 when the new guideline came into force.

In the last few days and weeks, similar reports have accumulated in the regional press. In the district of Sachsische Schweiz, the official incidence number dropped from 230 to 164.9. Saarbrucken even reported an identical incidence of 164.9 three days in a row. In the district of Kleve, the reported incidence rate dropped from 164 to 158 and in Monchengladbach from 154 to 114.

As a consequence, there is growing anger among students, teachers and workers. Elke, a teacher from Lower Saxony, told the WSWS about the situation in schools: We are all unhappy, we are not allowed to strike and live in fear when we are in school.

Before the Easter break, with infection figures climbing rapidly, schools were opened up again, with all grades attending alternating classes in the last week before the holidays. Elke reported: I have a total of about 250 pupils I teach, and I participate in almost every year group. So, everything gets mixed up for me, and sooner or later Im exposed to contagion from almost every class in the school.

The policy of compulsory testing in schools is also no real safeguard, as Elke says: This is the next disaster! We are not vaccinated and are supposed to do tests with pupils without a mask. This policy led to protests in Lower Saxonys schools after it started a few weeks ago. I dont think much of this testing either, it is much too unreliable. At most it can be a secondary safeguard if you are vaccinated.

In this respect no support can be expected from the main political parties or the trade unions: We teachers are all afraid of contagion and feel abandoned by the politicians, especially by our top boss, Education Minister Grant Hendrik Tonne. The fact that we were exposed to a danger to our lives was of no interest to anyone, not even the GEW (teachers trade union) Lower Saxony issued any statement.

In order to oppose the deadly opening up policy, teachers and students must organise themselves independently of the trade unions and the established parties. The Network of Action Committees for Safe Education and the Network of Action Committees for Safe Workplaces meets every second Monday at 7:30 p.m. (CET). Sign up here, become a member of our Facebook group and fight to build action committees at your schools and institutions!
After cynically calling an election nearly a year early to try to claim credit for supposedly protecting Tasmania from the global COVID-19 pandemic, the state Liberal Party government has barely scraped back into office.

The result underscores the instability of the political establishment nationally. Premier Peter Gutweins government suffered an electoral swing against it for the second election in a row, but survived because the Labor Partys vote plunged to just 28.4 percent, a near-record low.

Due to postal vote counting and the states complicated proportional representation system, it will be a week before it is known whether Gutweins government will hold a majority in the 25-seat lower house of parliament, or fall one seat short, on 12. Throughout the campaign, Gutwein declared he would resign rather than lead a minority government, but his plea for a strong majority government fell flat, leaving his fate uncertain.

Premier of Tasmania Peter Gutwein, voting in the state election. (Image credit: Peter Gutwein Facebook)

The Liberal Party banked everything on replicating the results in recent Australian state and territory electionsin Western Australia, Queensland, the Northern Territory and the Australian Capital Territorywhich Labor governments won by posturing as successfully defending their populations against the pandemic.

Gutweins parochial slogan, repeated endlessly, was: Tasmania is now one of the safest places on the planet. No infections have been reported in the state since a severe outbreak in the islands northwest in April 2020, after which the state borders were closed for months.

Yet the Liberals lost votes, in sharp contrast to the 4 percent and 18 percent increases in the share of the primary vote obtained by the Labor governments in Queensland and Western Australia at their state elections last October and March.

Significantly, Prime Minister Scott Morrison, the federal Liberal leader, was kept out of Tasmania throughout the campaign, as he had been in Western Australia, where the March 13 election saw the Liberals decimated.

Morrison and his government are increasingly loathed, including because its claims of pandemic safety, like those of Gutwein, are disintegrating in the face of the vaccine shambles, failed hotel quarantine facilities and frequent coronavirus outbreaks across the country.

With counting still continuing, the Liberals vote fell 1.5 points to 48.7 percent, on top of a similar loss of support in the previous 2018 state election. But Labors 4.2 point drop meant it lost one seat, to be left with nine.

This is Labors third such drubbing in Tasmania since its 2010 to 2014 coalition government with the Greens was defeated in an election landslide after imposing austerity measures. In the multi-member Hobart-based electorate of Clark, Labors vote fell to 22 percent, its lowest ever in any Tasmanian electorate.

The Greens vote rose marginally, by 1.9 points, to 12.2 percent, after the partys worst result in decades in 2018, so the Greens will retain their two seats.

Several heavily-publicised progressive Independents became the initial recipients of the political discontent, obtaining 6.3 percent of the vote, up 5.2 points. One Independent, a local mayor, Kristie Johnston, is likely to secure a seat in Clark, where she currently sits on 11.4 percent of the primary vote.

Another symptom of the political instability is that the candidate on whom the Liberals are now counting to clinch majority government is Madeleine Ogilvie, who was a Labor MP from 2014 to 2018. Her pre-election defection to the Liberals underscored the lack of any real difference between the two main capitalist parties.

Labors debacle, on top of its 2019 federal election loss, points to the underlying breakup of its support in the working class nationally, regardless of its recent state and territory victories, which were based on claiming to oppose the Morrison governments most aggressive demands for economic reopening amid the pandemic.

Despite appalling conditions in public health, housing and education, Labors claims to address the social blight lacked any credibility. That was not least because of its own record in inflicting deep cuts to schools and public services while in office from 2010 to 2014 in partnership with the Greens, matching the similar role of the federal Greens-backed Labor governments under Julia Gillard and Kevin Rudd.

Tasmanian workers remain the poorest in the country, with average earnings more than 13 percent below the national figure. Public hospital waiting lists have skyrocketed. The number of people waiting for an outpatient appointment has topped 51,000nearly a tenth of the states population.

Reports have long surfaced in the media of nurses being forced to work double shifts due to shortages, emergency departments battling to cope and ambulances forced to queue outside before patients are admitted.

There has been a similar jump in the number of people waiting for public housing, rising 9 percent in a year to more than 3,800. Rent and house prices have surged, leaving more people homeless or struggling to find a home they can afford.

Labors pro-business program was highlighted when it ditched its 2018 election posture of limiting the spread of gambling machines, which cause widespread financial losses and social distress in working class areas. This year, Labor secretly signed an agreement with the hospitality industry to support the right of pubs and clubs to operate poker machines, in line with the Liberals stance.

Having led Labor to two election defeats, state party leader Rebecca White could face a leadership challenge from David OByrne, who is backed by several trade union bosses. But Labors political disease goes far deeper, reflecting decades of enforcing the dictates of the corporate elite in collaboration with the unions, especially since the Hawke and Keating federal Labor governments of 1983 to 1996 and their Accords with the unions.

According to media reports, Labors third consecutive election disaster in Tasmania could trigger a takeover of the state party branch by Labors national executive, on the pretext of curbing the infighting between rival factions of the union bureaucrats who control the selection of parliamentary candidates. That would make the Tasmanian branch the secondafter neighbouring Victoriato be under national executive rule because of worsening factional brawling and local branch-stacking.

For the Greens, the outcome was only slightly less disastrous than their 2014 and 2018 results, in which they lost more than a third of their previous votes. While posturing as a progressive third party, raising concerns about global warming and the social crisis, the Greens have a long record of propping up capitalist governments.

The Greens joined their first de facto coalition with a Tasmanian Labor government from 1989 to 1992, and later backed a similar arrangement to maintain a minority Liberal government from 1996 to 1998. In the wake of the 2008 global financial crisis, the Labor-Greens government of 2010 to 2014 destroyed 1,000 public sector jobs. Current Greens leader Cassy OConnor was a key minister in that government.
25 years ago: Bosnian war crimes trials open in The Hague

Radovan Karadzic

On May 7, 1996, the first in a series of war crimes trials stemming from the war in Bosnia opened in the international court at The Hague, Netherlands. Dusan Tadic, a Bosnian Serb, stood accused of carrying out atrocities against Bosnian civilians, including murder, rape and torture.

The opening of the trial, however, centered on a dispute over the nature of the Bosnian conflict. The prosecution attempted to base itself on war crimes laws relating to international conflicts and therefore sought to present the war in Bosnia as an attack by the Serbian state on the state of Bosnia. Defense attorneys countered that Yugoslavias breakup and the attempt by large Serb minorities in Croatia and Bosnia to maintain their ties to Belgrade precluded any such definition.

The first Bosnian Muslim defendant arrived to await trial during the initial proceedings. Zejnil Delalic was one of three Muslims indicted for war crimes. He was charged with responsibility for murder, torture and rape carried out by troops under his command against Serbian prisoners.

Radovan Karadzic, president of the Bosnian Serb Republic, head of the Serbian Democratic Party and supreme commander of the Bosnian Serb army, had been indicted in 1995 by the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia on 13 counts of genocide and other war crimes allegedly committed between 1992 and 1995. Included in the charges leveled against him were his responsibility for the 44-month shelling of the capital Sarajevo and the massacre of 8,000 Bosnian Muslims at Srebrenica. Karadzic disappeared following the signing of the Dayton peace accords, and was only arrested in July 2008.

What was largely ignored throughout the trials was the role of the major imperialist powers, in particular the United States and Germany, which deliberately engineered the break-up of Yugoslavia. This project required the promotion of nationalist and communalist politics. This inevitably led to the crimes associated with the term ethnic cleansing in the multi-ethnic, multi-religious state, including ones carried out by western allies such as Croatian President Franco Tudjman and Bosnian Muslim leader Alija Izetbegovic.

50 years ago: East Germanys Walter Ulbricht forced out of power

Walter Ubricht

On May 3, 1971, Walter Ulbricht resigned as the first Secretary of the Socialist Unity Party of East Germany (SED). Ulbricht was a longtime ally of Stalin, responsible for betrayals of the working class extending as far back as the 1930s when he was a leader in the German Communist Party (KPD).

Ulbrichts resignation was officially reported as being due to the health and age of the 77-year-old bureaucrat. Yet the changing of the Stalinist guard came at a time of working class upheaval in eastern Europe and internationally. Just months earlier, workers in Poland took major strike action against the Stalinist government, which responded by gunning down young protesters.

Ulbrichts political career was characterized by consistent suppression of the independence of the working class. From 1928 to 1933 he helped promote the criminal KPD policies of attacking the SPD as social fascists and claiming, after Hitler us, paving the way for the Nazis and the destruction of the organized working class in Germany. While in exile during the war, first in France, then in the Soviet Union, Ulbricht conspired to eliminate the remaining Trotskyists in Germany by handing over information on their political activity and location to the Nazi secret police, resulting in their murder.

Once Germany had been carved up by the Allies and the Soviet Union after the war, Ulbricht became First Secretary of the SED in 1950. Shortly afterwards, he proved his value to Moscow by organizing the suppression of the 1953 East German uprising of over 1 million workers. Ulbrichts regime was faced with an immense political and economic crisis that saw thousands fleeing East Berlin into the Allied-controlled Western section of the city. His response was the construction of the Berlin Wall and giving the order to fire on those attempting to cross the border.

With conditions in 1970s East Germany politically explosive, a reliable replacement was needed to continue the suppression of the working class. Selected for this task was Erich Honecker, Stalinist hard-liner and the SED Secretary of Security, who oversaw the countrys police and military. Honecker was the handpicked political protege of Ulbricht and the two were close political allies throughout their careers. Honecker would remain First Secretary of the SED until 1989.

75 years ago: French post-war constitution defeated in national referendum

Maurice Thorez in 1948

On May 5, 1946, a draft constitution for post-World War II France was narrowly voted down in a national referendum that reflected sharp social polarization and the bankruptcy of the Stalinist and social democratic parties, both of which were committed to the restabilization of capitalist rule.

With the liberation of France from Nazi occupation in late 1944, sections of the countrys ruling elite, along with the Allied powers, Britain, the US, and the Soviet Union, scrambled to establish a government. The French ruling elite and its political establishment were widely discredited, as a result of their participation in the Vichy regime, which collaborated with the Nazis.

In 1944, a provisional government had been declared, led by General Charles de Gaulle. After the final defeat of the Nazis in May 1945, a French Constituent Assembly, tasked with writing up a new constitution, was established.

The Stalinists of the French Communist Party (PCF) and the social democrats of the SFIO entered into De Gaulles capitalist provisional government. Divisions emerged, however, over the political setup to be outlined in the constitution. The PCF and the SFIO, along with a minority of the ruling elite, favored the establishment of a unicameral parliament, in line with their attempts to dress up the new regime as democratic.

De Gaulle was hostile to this, instead advocating a presidential system. He resigned from the provisional government in January 1946. The traditional parties of the French bourgeoisie, including the Moderates, Radicals, and the Popular Republican Movement, which had collaborated closely with the PCF and the SFIO, also opposed unicameralism. They demanded the establishment of a senate, which had historically been associated with ensuring the effective veto power of propertied interests in parliament.

Confronted by a temporary falling out with their bourgeois allies, the PCF and the SFIO were alone in advocating a yes vote in the referendum. The constitution mandating a unicameral parliament was defeated by 52.8 percent of those who voted, with a turnout of just under 80 percent of the population.

The leadership of the Fourth International, the world Trotskyist movement, rejected claims that the unicameral constitution would mark a step forward, stating that to advocate a yes ballot meant, whether one wanted to or not, to sanction the bourgeois state, capitalist property, national defense and colonial oppression. The class collaborationist program of the Stalinists and the social democrats, it warned, was preventing the working class from intervening independently, and was opening the door for right-wing parties to make an appeal to sections of the middle class.

A reworked constitution, providing for a bicameral parliament, would pass in an October referendum.

100 years ago: Allies deliver ultimatum to Germany on war reparations

Lloyd George

On May 5, 1921, the Allied Supreme Council delivered an ultimatum to the German government for repayment of war reparations. The document was signed by top officials of Britain, Belgium, France, Italy and Japan and delivered in person by the British Prime Minister David Lloyd George to the German Ambassador, Friedrich Sthamer.

The London Ultimatum, as it became known, was delivered because Germany was in default of the war reparation payments imposed upon it by the Treaty of Versailles in 1919. The Allies were now demanding 135 billion marks.

By 1921, the resistance of German imperialism to the conditions of the treaty had reached a crisis point. The country was the scene of brewing civil war between the working class and far-right militias, and capitulation to the conditions of the treaty would cause a domestic political firestorm.

The Allied ultimatum demanded that Germany must agree to its terms by May 12 or suffer an invasion of its industrial Ruhr Valley. The government of Constantin Fehrenbach of the Catholic Centre Party, unable to agree on terms, resigned.

Even before the ultimatum, the French had begun pouring troops into the German city of Duesseldorf in preparation for such an invasion. The French army announced plans to push toward Essen and encircle the whole of the Ruhr region by May 15.

On May 4 the European Allies had invited American imperialism to participate in the diplomatic and military pressure on Germany. The United States had not joined the League of Nations and had not been a signatory to the Treaty of Versailles but had negotiated its own treaty with Germany. The Allies, according to press reports at the time, were eager not to displease Washington.

The United States accepted the Allied invitation and by May 6 had made a formal announcement that it would participate in several Allied organizations to ensure that the Germans paid their war reparations.

By May 10, the German Reichstag voted by 221 to 175 to accept the Allied ultimatum and form a new government under Joseph Wirth, a politician of the Catholic Center Party, with the active support of the Social Democratic Party.
The Labour Party and Unite the union proclaimed a major campaign against fire and rehire schemes last week, with a national day of action and a parliamentary debate.

Unite, Britains largest union, promised coordinated strikes and action across the country to end 'bully boy' fire and rehire tactics. Howard Beckett, currently standing for Unite general secretary with the backing of former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, fronted last Mondays day of action declaring, were fighting back, well take industrial action where we need to because fire and rehire is not here to stay.

Fire and rehire is part of a global wave of restructuring to wring from workers trillions of pounds, euros and dollars in bailout funds handed out to the corporations and banks over the past year. By January this year, an estimated one in 10 workers in the UK had been forced to reapply for their jobs on worse pay, terms and conditions, according to a survey by the Trades Union Congress (TUC). Almost a quarter (24 percent) said their terms of employment had suffered, rising to one in three (34 percent) for those aged 18-24.

British Gas workers in Stockport picket against fire and rehire (credit: Kevin Byrne)

Unites campaign is duplicitous. It aims to harness working class opposition to fire and rehire behind the unions nationalist and corporatist pitch to big business and the state. At British Airways, Go North West, SAICA, and SPS Technologies, the union has responded to fire and rehire by offering its services to enforce redundancies and cuts to pay and conditions.

A video released last week by Unite featured strikers at Go North West denouncing the companys fire and rehire in Manchester. One of the workers explains, Were not just taking a stand for ourselves and our families, were taking a stand for everybody. But Unite marries this principled class standpoint to its own grovelling appeal to the Tories, claiming, The government has spoken out against fire and rehire. Evidence is offered in the form of Jacob Rees-Mogg telling the House of Commons, Employers threatening to fire and rehire as a negotiating tactic are doing something that is wrong.

A screenshot from Unite's campaign video against fire and rehire showing Boris Johnson speaking in Parliament

Rees Mogg is a political reactionary, widely ridiculed as Minister for the Nineteenth Century. A former owner of Somerset Capital Management with an estimated personal fortune of 150 million, he is a public supporter of zero hours contracts who has previously suggested that people who perished in the Grenfell Tower inferno lacked intelligence for failing to leave the building. Unites promotion of his weasel words on fire and rehire is obscene. The Tories have merely cautioned employers they should vary contracts only after a 90-day consultation period with unions to avoid unnecessary confrontation.

The day of strikes announced by Unite amounted to a handful of token protests and a rebranding of ongoing disputes it has isolated for months. Hotel workers in Glasgow and Edinburgh, Heathrow airport ground staff, SPS Technology workers and Go North West strikers were among those participating. Beckett launched the day in London with a protest by around 20 sacked Goodlords workers addressed by Jeremy Corbyn. Corbyn said, Howard has led a brilliant campaign within the union, obviously for the benefit of the members, to defeat them at British Airways and at quite a lot of other places as well and that is fantastic, because winning at British Airways is a fillip for everybody else and it shows it can be done.

Jeremy Corbyn launching Unite's "national day of action" in London, alongside Howard Beckett (right) (credit: Unite)

Unites #BABetrayal

Corbyns choice of British Airways to highlight Unites brilliant campaign against fire and rehire is unfortunate. In April 2020, the airline announced plans to slash 12,000 jobs and rehire the remaining workforce on greatly reduced terms and conditions including pay cuts of more than 20 percent. Unite denounced the companys plans, launching a cross-party campaign #BABetrayal that ran for several months, arguing that BAs actions were un-British and urging company executives to work with Unite and the government to establish a new bespoke, sector-wide, crisis support plan and package for aviation, with oversight from a new sector panel with representation from unions, businesses and government.

On this basis, the British Airlines Stewards and Stewardesses Association (BASSA), a branch of UNITE, cut a deal with BA parent company IAG. The deal saw BAs fire and rehire plans introduced via the back door. They agreed a new fleet structure, changing employment contracts overnight and downgrading more senior grades. A Redundancy Mitigation Agreement targeting lower paid and more recently employed Mixed Fleet (MF) crew, saw more than 4,000 jobs destroyed. All remaining staff, including former European Fleet and Worldwide Fleet members, received a 15 percent pay cut. BA crew members reacted with fury. Unite had driven a wedge between the MF and European Fleet /World Fleet crews to the detriment of all. [U]nite has two cabin crew branchesBASSA & MFU [Mixed Fleet Union], explained an outraged BA worker, BASSA asked BA to make all redundancies from MFU members to save themselves. Please help us expose this betrayal... we thought we were fighting together but clearly not.

Under the hashtag #unitebetrayal, another Mixed Fleet crew member denounced the deal as a total shambles and actively seeking for one group of colleagues in favour of another (hint: the ones that pay them more). I will never rejoin Unite the Union. Utter trash. Another demanded of Beckett, why did you allow Fire & Rehire to go through with BA Crew under the guise of a variation in contract? Too late for the members you let down! Looking for votes now? Question what @BeckettUnite [Howard Beckett] DID NOT DO. Cheap words, too late, for those you betrayed. Meanwhile, BASSA officials chastised workers for complaining about the deal, admonishing remaining crew members to keep calm and carry on.

Unites brilliant campaign served as a template for agreements elsewhere. At Go North West, SPS Technologies, SAICA, company threats to fire and rehire employees were withdrawn after sellout deals reached with Unite. The union organised strikes and protests solely to pressure company executives to the negotiating table. At SPS Technologies, annual pay cuts of 3,000 under fire and rehire were shelved in favour of a Unite deal that cut wages by 1,500. At SAICA packaging plant in Scotland, new contracts were withdrawn after Unite offered major concessions, with SAICA telling the Edinburgh News, we are very pleased that progress has been made. At Go North West in Manchester, where bus drivers have been on strike against fire and rehire since February, Unites response was to offer 1.3 million in concessions. In each case, workers have been offered the choice of being nuked or carpet-bombed, with Unite declaring a victory.

Early Day Motion: corporatism and nationalism

The corporatist strategy of the unions acting as an integral part of the structures of corporate management and the state was on display during a House of Commons debate on fire and rehire last Tuesday.

Unites Beckett, Corbyn, his former shadow chancellor John McDonnell and other left pretenders, have for several weeks promoted an Early Day Motion calling on the Tories to legislate against fire and rehire. I, along with my union Unite, am calling for fire and rehire to be included in next months Queens Speech, either in the Employment Bill or as stand-alone emergency legislation. It is a national emergency, declared Kate Osborne Labour MP for Jarrow.

For one-and-a-half hours, Labour MPs who have served as loyal members of Sir Keir Starmers parliamentary team, rose to denounce capitalism, robbery and legalised theft. Hire and fire was a Tory blueprint and Thatcherism on steroids, declared Richard Burgon, stating that he had joined British Gas workers on the GMB picket in Leeds. Navendu Mishra proclaimed, I am proud to be a Labour MP, so it should not come as a surprise that I am a socialist and trade unionist.

Neither Mishra not Burgon offered any explanation for the refusal of the overwhelming majority of Labour MPs to sign the motion against fire and rehirejust 43 out of 199 have signed.

Scottish National Party MP Gavin Newlandsin keeping with his partys strategy for an independent capitalist Scotlandclaimed the European Union was a bastion of progress against hire and refire, Workers in those countries have employment rights based on modernity, not Dickens novels, he asserted. BAs parent company IAG, could not copy the tactics they used in the UK with staff at Iberia and Aer Lingus because those countries enshrined in law the rights of employees not to be treated in such a way.

In fact, the major airline carriers have forced through a continent-wide jobs massacre via their social partnership with the trade unions. Workers in Ireland have lost more than a billion euro during the pandemic, amounting to a 40 percent wage cut for those in construction, transport, retail and hospitality. An International Labour Organisation report published in December found the largest wage bill lossesin excess of 10 per centhave been estimated in Ireland, Portugal, and Spain.

Denunciations of rogue employers and bully boy tactics climaxed in the same grovelling plea to the Tories: do the right thing and ensure the draconian practice of fire and rehire is outlawed in the Queens Speech. It was left to Business Secretary Paul Scully to reply on behalf of a government whose pandemic strategy had been revealed just two days earlier by the prime minister: let the bodies pile high.

Scully held the governments line: Our flexible hiring practice is important to ensuring that our economy is rounded but flexible. He added, [W]e should tread carefully when considering Government intervention in commercial contractual matters between employers and employees we must also allow businesses to take the sometimes difficult decisions that are necessary to preserve their commercial viability.

Against the Tories support for freedom of contract, Labour is advocating a corporatist alliance between unions, big business and government to deliver the required flexibility, while averting the threat of mass strikes and political unrest. McDonnell spelled this out, declaring, Lord Hendy reminded us a couple of days ago that fire and rehire is not a new practice. The general strike was provoked by it when the miners were sacked and brought back to work only if they accepted wage cuts. I warn the Government: if they do not act and change the legislation, there will be more industrial action and more disputes, so they need to act with urgency.

Underpinning the appeals to the Tories is the programme of economic nationalism, i.e., the suppression of the class struggle and the subordination of workers to the profit requirements of their own capitalist class. While US President Joseph Biden promotes Buy American in alliance with the AFL-CIO union federation and as part of trade war measures against Europe and China, the same agenda is championed in Britain by the Labour Party lefts and trade unions.

Unites radical blueprint to transform UK manufacturing, launched in November 2019, demands Build localBuy UK, and bring back the thousands of manufacturing jobs that moved overseas. Its revised strategy document, Recovery and Rebuild, published in June 2020, calls for protectionism and trade war measures against low-cost rivals, pitting British workers against their class brothers and sisters in a fratricidal struggle for global market dominance that leads in the direction of World War III. This is to be enforced through new corporate ownership models based on boardroom representation for trade unions to fight for survival of British manufacturing. This corporatist strategy was to have been the centrepiece of a Corbyn-led Labour government.

The socialist answer to austerity, trade war and military conflict is the fight for the international unity of the working class against capitalism. In reply to company directors declarations that their businesses lack commercial viability and that pay cuts and job losses are inevitable, workers must raise the demand for expropriation and for the transformation of the major corporations into public enterprises under the democratic ownership and control of the working class.

The monopolisation of societys resources by a handful of billionaires means the working class cannot defend anything outside of a frontal assault on the power of the financial oligarchy. For this, workers need genuine organisations of mass struggle, rank-and-file committees, not corporatist trade unions in alliance with big business and the state.
The World Socialist Web Site invites workers and other readers to contribute to this regular feature.

Latin America

National strikes and demonstrations in Colombia amid COVID-19 resurgence

Beginning on Wednesday April 28, protest strikes and demonstrations took place across Colombia. The massive popular movement began as a protest against a regressive 2 billion dollar (US) tax hike on food, public transportation and other essential goods and services, proposed by right-wing president Ivan Duque and approved by the legislature.

Demonstrators gather at Plaza Bolivar, September 21, Bogota (Credit: @InstitucionalTV)

The tax measure ignited an already explosive situation created by acceleration in the COVID-19 pandemic that threatens the nations entire health system.

On May 2, a day after calling for the militarization of the country to drown the protests in blood, Duque called on Congress to rescind the tax measure. The announcement did not stop mass protests in defiance of police repression, in Bogota, Cali, Medellin and other Colombian cities.

Three thousand troops were sent into Cali, the epicenter of the protests. Human rights groups gave a preliminary report that indicates that at least 8 people were killed in demonstrations in Cali, 28 were wounded [two of whom lost their sight] and 84 arrested.

Buenos Aires teachers stage protest

Striking public school teachers in the city of Buenos Aires rallied Friday to protest this weeks school reopening. The educators rallied at the Buenos Aires Obelisk monument. Many of the teachers denounced the anti-science policies of Buenos Aires Mayor Horacio Larreta. The mayor decreed the reopening of schools despite an increase in COVID-19 cases and deaths, including among elementary school students, in the context of an overburdened hospital system. Teachers who spoke at the rally pledged that they would not return to in-person teaching.

Two weeks ago, the Medical Doctors Private Sector Association reported that the citys medical infrastructure was in near collapse, with a one hundred percent occupation of emergency care beds in private hospitals and clinics and 80 percent occupation for public hospitals.

24-hour general strike in Chile demands presidents ouster

Thousands of workers, employed by public agencies and private firms, took part in a general strike on April 30, in anticipation of May Day, demanding the resignation of President Sebastian Pinera. The strikers were joined by students and farm workers, and by advocates of democratic rights.

Health workers march to Congress. Banner reads Less applause and more resources for Public Health. (Credit: Guillermo Correa Camiroaga)

Protests continued nationwide on May 1. In the port city of Valparaiso, marchers carried banners that read: Bread, jobs, health and dignity and Life with dignity means having the right to health! The march followed the road bordering the port.

In addition to protests against the governments handling of the coronavirus pandemic, the strikers protested the Pinera administrations refusal to allow workers to use part of their government pension accounts to confront the economic crisis created by the pandemic. The strikers also demand an immediate freeze on prices for food and essential goods for the working class.

Workers mark May Day with demonstrations across Mexico

On May first, International Workers Day, in defiance of their trade unions, workers marched in Mexico City, Veracruz, Guadalajara, Guanajuato, Oaxaca, Puebla, and Yucatan. In Guadalajara, where the official corporate union federations had announced that no May Day actions would be held, workers rallied anyway.

Another significant march took place in the industrial city of Puebla, location of auto parts and auto assembly plants operated by Fiat and Volkswagen. The protest included delegations of autoworkers marching under their banners demanding that workers rights be respected in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Also present were hospital workers, educators, and telephone workers who are fighting attempts by the Telemex phone monopoly to strip them of retirement rights.

In Manaos, Brazil, thousands march against President Bolsonaros visit

On April 30, thousands marched in the city of Manaos, capital of Amazonia State, against the declaration of President Jair Bolsonaro an Amazonian citizen. The honor was bestowed by the state legislature on April 20.

Demonstrators denounced Bolsonaro for his indifference to the indigenous population of the region and for his criminal mishandling of the coronavirus pandemic. Francy Junior, a womans rights activist, denounced the president, stating Bolsonaro is responsible for over 12,000 [COVID-19] deaths in our state.

United States

Strike by workers against Prysmian Group plant in east Texas enters second month

Workers at the plant operated by Prysmian Group in Scottsville, Texas are entering their second month on strike with no progress in talks between management and the United Auto Workers (UAW) reported.

Last week UAW members from the Dallas area travelled to Scottsville, outside of Marshall near the Louisiana border, to join the 200 striking workers on the picket line.

A major issue for workers is the plants 24/7 operation. Workers are demanding to increase the number of times they can refuse overtime. Right now, they are only allowed five such refusals a year.

In March 2020, the UAW had agreed to postpone contract talks for one year due to the pandemic, however when talks resumed this March things quickly reached an impasse, with management offering a pay raise of five cents per hour while imposing higher out-of-pocket health care costs on workers.

The Scottsville plant manufactures cables for power lines and telecommunications systems. Prysmian Group is a transnational cable maker headquartered in Milan, Italy and boasted sales of over 10 billion euros in 2020. It operates 23 plants in North America, 48 in Europe, 13 in Latin America, 13 in the Asia-Pacific and 7 in the Middle East and Africa.

Mississippi teachers decry stingy pay raises

Mounting anger has roiled Mississippi teachers after the state legislature secretly passed a bill last March in the waning hours of the legislative session that called for miserly annual wage increases of $1,000 for veteran teachers and $1,100 for new teachers.

The Facebook pagePay Raise for Mississippi Teachersdrew widespread interest and one post declared, We have nearly 40,000 followers of this page. It is time we discuss what it will take to organize a teacher strike.

Mississippi is the poorest state in the nation, with a poverty rate of over 19 percent compared to a national average of 10 percent. Average starting wages for teachers are around $35,890. The state average, according to the Southern Regional Education Board, is $45,105. This sharply contrasts to the national average in 2018-19 of $62,304.

Both the American Federation of Teachers-Mississippi and the NEA-affiliate Mississippi Association of Educators paid lip service to the anger of teachers. But they warned of the consequences of a strike given harsh Mississippi laws.

Mississippi teachers struck only once, in 1985, when the NEA endorsed a strike and 22 members of the executive board sustained $250 fines and were sentenced to serve two days in jail. The jail sentences were dropped after they agreed to comply with the states injunction against strikes.

Mississippi school bus drivers force rollback of cuts after two-day work stoppage

The 20 bus drivers for Mississippis Greenville Public School District (GPSD) ended their work stoppage April 27 after the board of trustees rescinded an order passed back in March to cut hours. The drivers are classified as working 5-hour, 6-hour or 7-hour days. The board originally cut all drivers back to 5-hour days, or 25 hours per week.

On April 23, drivers received a notice about the cuts and without any organization, they walked out for two days starting April 26. The action was taken despite state laws that bar striking.

Driver Lolanda Lewis said she and her co-workers sought a meeting with the board, but district superintendent Debra Dace said the board didnt want to meet with them.

The cuts for drivers came on top of devastating reductions in living standards due to the pandemic. Many had to drop health care and other supplemental insurance as a result, and none received hazard pay.

Canada

Nestle chocolate bar workers strike in Toronto

About 470 workers at Nestles confections factory in Toronto struck this past weekend after negotiations for a new contract broke down. The workers, members of Unifor, are demanding the resolution of a long-term dispute over the companys use of temporary workers in the plant.

Employing a large number of workers on full-time hours but on a temporary basis, Nestles has been able to deny these workers access to benefits and top wages while reducing hours at will. Workers struck over the same gig economy issue in 2017. Workers who are currently entitled to benefits are also demanding higher company contributions to their pension plan.
FARMERSBURG, Ind. (WTHI) - One man is behind bars after an attempted stabbing.

Riley McConnell of Shelburn Indiana was arrested early Saturday morning.

That's after an attempted stabbing in Farmersburg.

According to the Farmersburg Carshals facebook page -- Marshal Cody Strain was called to a house on south 3rd street in Farmersburg.

That's when a woman covered in blood ran up to his vehicle.

Followed by McConnell -- who the woman said was the aggressor.

After a brief struggle -- he was detained and taken to the Sullivan County jail.

According to the police -- McConnell broke into a house with intent to harm a male and female inside.

A fight started between McConnell and the male and that's when the knife was drawn.

Both victims were able to escape and wait for law enforcement to arrive.

McConnell is being charged with, burglarly, intimidation, battery, and more.
CLAY CITY, Ill. (WTHI) - One 18-year-old female is now dead after a crash in Clay City, Illinois.

Law officials say Alexis Sargent of Fairfield Illinois was traveling northbound on south main street at US route 50 in Clay City with a 14-year-old male passenger.

And 53-year-old William Goluba from Olney was traveling eastbound in the same location.

Illinois state police say Sargent failed to stop at a stop sign at the intersection.

And thats when police say the vehicles hit eachother.

Sargent was transported to the hospital where she later died from her injuries.

The other people involved were checked out at the hospital with non-life threatening injuries.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 21:40:02|Editor: huaxia

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BRUSSELS, May 3 (Xinhua) -- A new vaccination center opened its doors on Monday at Queen Astrid Military Hospital in Brussels, the second largest in the Belgian capital after the Heysel conference center.

Young people aged 16 and 17 will be eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine there this summer. Details on the rollout for younger age groups are still being reviewed by the Vaccination Task Force, the Belgian newspaper De Morgen reported on Monday.

The Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine has been approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) for people aged 16 and above.

Between Dec. 28, 2020, and May 1, 2021, a total of 3,058,382 people in Belgium received their first vaccine dose. Of them, 829,376 have already been administered the second dose as well, the Sciensano public health institute said Monday.

Between April 23 and April 30, an average of 3,046 people tested positive for COVID-19 per day, 16 percent less than a week earlier, Sciensano said.

Belgium has recorded a total of 995,562 COVID-19 cases and 24,291 deaths since the beginning of the pandemic.

Globally, 277 candidate vaccines are still being developed in countries including Germany, Britain, China, United States and Russia, according to data published by the World Health Organization on April 30. Enditem
Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb is launching a new initiative to attract talent and economic growth in the state.

On Monday, the governor announced the Indiana Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative, or "READI."

It dedicates $500 million in state appropriations to promote strategic investments. Communities will work together on programs and projects to keep and attract a workforce.

The state Economic Development Corporation will be awarded to help with the plans.

MayJuly | Indiana communities define regions

Indiana counties, cities and towns are encouraged to coordinate and self-identify their proposed regions. During this time, the IEDC will host READI informational meetings across the state to detail the initiative and guidelines for regional development plans. Communities will have until July 1, 2021, to define their region and notify the IEDC of their intent to seek funding through READI.

JulyAugust | Regions develop strategic plans

Regions will convene a broad, diverse group of stakeholders, including major employers and anchor institutions, education partners, economic development professionals, philanthropy partners, and its elected officials, to create a regional development plan that outlines the current state of the region, its vision for the future, and a game plan to invest in its growth and prosperity.

The IEDC will provide planning grants up to $50,000 to identified regions to support this effort, and regions will have until August 31, 2021, to submit regional development plans, which will be made available to the public. Detailed guidelines for regional development plans are available online at IndianaREADI.com.

September October | Committee reviews regional applications

The IEDC board of directors will form a READI review committee to evaluate regional development plans. Each region will have the opportunity to present its vision, goals and strategies that will positively impact the areas quality of place and quality of life, innovation, entrepreneurship, and talent attraction and development. The committee will establish criteria to evaluate plans and will host a series of review meetings that will be open to the public.

NovemberDecember | State finalizes funding decisions

The review committee will make funding recommendations to the IEDC board of directors. Once approved, the IEDC will award READI funding to selected regions to advance implementation of the projects and programs designed to catalyze economic growth and talent development in Indiana.
JASONVILLE, Ind. (WTHI) -- One local Wabash valley family is remembering their daughter in a unique way. Madi was a 17-year-old girl who fought long and hard against Leukemia. After beating cancer she suddenly passed away from Graft vs. Host disease. To honor her name, and keep her dreams alive, the Madis hope foundation was born.

The Madis Hope foundation was just the start.

In fact, Madis mom and founder of the foundation Tera Orman told News 10 theyre now opening up a food truck in Madis honor. The name, Madi Moos food truck.

Orman told us, When we lost her we just, you know being so lost from all of that, starting her foundation, trying to find ways to give back and to feel like you have a purpose. One day it just came to me and I think Madi wants us to go ahead and do this food truck .

Orman decided to start the food truck because its what her daughter would have wanted.

She told News 10 while undergoing her treatment, Madi dreamed of one day opening up her own food truck.

Orman said when she was in the hospital with Madi, Madi would always talk about her dream to one day be able to serve the community through having a food truck.

Orman said Madi may be gone now but her dreams will not be going away any time soon.

She said, Well be able to take it into the community that she loved, feature her foods, tell her story, and be able to help the foundation in the process. 

Orman said the food truck will be up and running soon.

It will offer people some of Madis favorite foods while telling her story as well.

All proceeds from the truck will go directly to Madis Hope foundation.

Orman said this truck wont replace the pain of losing her daughter, but it does give a smile to her face knowing shes carrying on exactly what she wanted.

Orman said, With her not being here in the flesh with us we know we need to continue that and thats how I feel close to her. Is to just do those things that she would want us to do.

For more information on Madis Hope Foundation, the event, and the food truck you can click here.
CALHOUN CITY, Miss. (WTVA) - Its a heartbreaking day in Calhoun City, and residents are trying to clean up whats left of their homes and businesses.

Reporter Alexis Jones spoke with residents Monday morning on Luncheford Lane where residents and business owners are still in shock.

Annie Crutirds' home damaged in Calhoun City. Photo Date: May 3, 2021.

Annie Crutirds' home damaged in Calhoun City. Photo Date: May 3, 2021. Annie Crutirds' home damaged in Calhoun City. Photo Date: May 3, 2021. Annie Crutirds' home damaged in Calhoun City. Photo Date: May 3, 2021.

The storm destroyed two businesses on Lunceford Lane. Debris from both buildings broke windows in nearby homes.

Annie Crutirds, who has lived there for more than 30 years, was at a loss for words after seeing the damages to her home.

It hurts, but I just thank God she made it, her daughter Anita Humaphris said. You know, thats the main thing.

Crutirds plans to temporarily stay at her daughters house.
ABERDEEN, Miss. (WTVA) - The Northeast Mississippi Coalition Against Covid-19 is on a mission to make sure people in North Mississippi are vaccinated.

On Saturday, Coalition members set up several mobile sites around town to get people vaccinated.

"If you were in Aberdeen today you had many opportunities," Dr. Vernon Rayford said. "And it's really incredible that there are so many opportunities for vaccines, particularly on a Saturday.

The city of Aberdeen hosted multiple groups to get people vaccinated including the Coalition. It was the first time the Coalition hosted a site in Aberdeen since starting in April.

Even if people missed out on the event, the group shared information on Facebook live about getting vaccinated.

"We've gotten a chance to talk to people, engage with people and ask them what their concerns and hesitation are about the vaccine and address many of those," Dr.Rayford said.

Just down the road from the Coalition's mobile site, Walgreen's staff set up outside of Daniel Missionary Baptist church to also vaccinate the community.

"We believe it is important to get it to the community," Bill Griffth said. "If you give it to one body of people, other people will know and maybe they will join in."

The Northeast Mississippi Coalition Against Covid-19 will return to Aberdeen on June 4 at the Parks and Recreation building.
DAUPHIN ISLAND, Ala. (AP)  Authorities continue to search for a Mississippi student who went missing Sunday while swimming in the Gulf of Mexico at Alabamas Dauphin Island.

The U.S. Coast Guard tells local news outlets that Rob Brent is a student at the University of Southern Mississippi.

The Coast Guard says Brent was reported missing around 6 p.m. Sunday after last being seen near a sandbar on the islands west end.

Coast Guard boats and aviation units were looking for Brent Monday, as was the Mobile County sheriffs flotilla, Dauphin Island emergency responders and the Alabama Marine Patrol
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Morgantown, WV (26505)

Today

Showers this morning then scattered thunderstorms developing during the afternoon hours. High 77F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 100%..

Tonight

Mostly cloudy with showers and a few thunderstorms. Low 66F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.
Charleston, WV (25311)

Today

Rain showers this morning with numerous thunderstorms developing during the afternoon hours. High 74F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%. Locally heavy rainfall possible..

Tonight

Variable clouds with showers and scattered thunderstorms. Storms more numerous this evening. Low near 65F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 22:11:46|Editor: huaxia

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London, May 3 (Xinhua) -- Additional COVID-19 testing and genomic sequencing will be provided in and around the Woodlands area of Hounslow, Middlesex, England, Britain's Department of Health and Social Care said on Monday.

The move came after one confirmed case of the COVID-19 variant first identified in South Africa (B.1.351) was found in the area. The confirmed case has self-isolated and close contacts of the case have been identified. There are no links between this case and previous cases identified in the South London area, according to the department.

Everyone aged 16 and over who lives or works in the Woodlands area of Hounslow is strongly encouraged to take a COVID-19 PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test, whether they are showing symptoms or not, according to the department.

In addition to the testing, daily COVID-19 tests will be given to as many as 40,000 people who have been in contact with someone tested positive for COVID-19, in a new government-backed study.

The study is designed to gather evidence on safe alternatives to self-isolation for people who are contacts of positive COVID-19 cases.

Close contacts of people with COVID-19 will be contacted by phone and sent seven days' worth of lateral flow tests. The contacts are required to test themselves each morning for seven days. People who test negative and develop no symptoms will be exempt from the legal duty to self-isolate that day and can leave their home to carry out essential activity.

If successful, the study, led by the British Health Security Agency, could provide evidence to help to reduce the length of time people who are contacts of positive COVID-19 cases need to self-isolate, as parts of the economy and society reopen through the British government's roadmap out of lockdown, according to the government.

"This new pilot could help shift the dial in our favor by offering a viable alternative to self-isolation for people who are contacts of positive COVID-19 cases, and one that would allow people to carry on going to work and living their lives," said British Health Secretary Matt Hancock in a statement.

Experts have warned that despite progress in vaccine rollout, Britain is "still not out of the woods" amid concerns over new variants, particularly those first emerged in South Africa, Brazil and India, and the third wave of pandemic on the European continent.

To bring life back to normal, countries such as Britain, China, Russia, the United States as well as the European Union have been racing against time to roll out coronavirus vaccines. Enditem
A mass cremation of victims who died due to COVID-19 is seen at a crematorium ground in New Delhi, India on April 22. REUTERS/Danish Siddiqui

Official Chinese government accounts have deleted posts that seemed to mock India's COVID-19 crisis.

One was seen comparing China's module launch of its first space station with mass cremations in India.

"China lighting a fire versus India lighting a fire," a post was captioned.

See more stories on Insider's business page.

Images on social media posted by two official Chinese government accounts have drawn rebuke for appearing to mock India's catastrophic battle with COVID-19, according to multiple online reports.

An account linked to the ruling Communist Party posted an image on Saturday comparing the country's successful launch of its Tianhe module into space with lines of burning cremation pyres in India.

The image, posted by the government's Central Political and Legal Affairs Commission on its Weibo account, was captioned "China lighting a fire versus India lighting a fire."

It carried a hashtag noting India's coronavirus cases had topped 400,000 a day. Multiple other government accounts run by the police and law enforcement agencies shared the image too, CNN reported.

The posts compared China's launche of its Tianhe module to burning cremation pyres in India. Weibo

The official account of China's Ministry of Public Security posted a separate image on Friday that compared the country's "fire god mountain" - the name of its makeshift hospital built to combat COVID-19 in Wuhan - with another mass cremation in India, according to Bloomberg. Some social media users reportedly commented saying the posts were "morally problematic."

Both posts were deleted after many Chinese Weibo users expressed anger at the insensitivity expressed.

Hu Xijin, the editor-in-chief of the Communist Party-backed Global Times also blasted the move, saying: "I don't think it's proper for social media accounts of certain Chinese official institutions or other influential forces to mock India at present."

They should instead "hold high the banner of humanitarianism at this time, show sympathy for India, and firmly place Chinese society on a moral high ground," he said.

Story continues

Nationalist sentiment has been running high in both countries as the two world powers spar over a 2,100 mile-long disputed border in the Himalayan region. Some see India's intense coronavirus battle as an opportunity for China to ease tensions with its neighbor.

"We hope everyone gives attention to the Chinese government and mainstream public opinion supporting India's fight against the epidemic," a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson told Bloomberg in response to the deletion of the posts.

President Xi Jinping only recently sent a condolence message to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, offering assistance to help the nation deal with its shortage of oxygen and other important supplies.

A foreign ministry spokesman, Wang Wenbin, told Bloomberg on Friday that the Red Cross Society of China, local governments, NGOs, and Chinese enterprises are attempting to collect pandemic-related supplies and deliver them to India "as soon as possible."

India reported more than 300,000 new COVID-19 cases for a twelfth straight day on Monday, taking its total caseload to near 20 million. Fatalities rose by 3,417 to more than 215,000, but medical experts believe the number could be five to 10 times higher than the official tally.

Read the original article on Business Insider
A prominent leader of Oaklands Chinatown was attacked while running errands last week.



The incident took place in the 400 block of 8th St. at around 4 p.m. on Thursday, April 29, KPIX 5 reported.







Carl Chan, president of Oakland's Chinatown Chamber of Commerce, was in Oakland running some errands. He also planned on visiting Hua Zhen Lin, a 68-year-old who was assaulted on an AC Transit bus last Monday.



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Chan, however, was attacked in broad daylight before he could pay a visit to Lin. While Chan was walking, his attacker allegedly yelled a racial slur at him before hitting him on the head.



I was making a turn and then the attack came so sudden. It was a cowardly attack, from behind, Chan told KPIX 5. He did not rob me so it was basically, is just an assault, and attack.







Chan fell to the ground and suffered bruises and a scraped knee. Despite blacking out for a moment, he managed to take photos of his male assailant, which led to an arrest by Oakland police shortly after.



Parolee James Lee Ramsey, 25, was booked on felony battery charges. Ramsey already had convictions for criminal threats and brandishing a weapon, and his parole has been revoked multiple times, according to KTVU.







On Friday, Chan stood among other community leaders in a rally against SB82, a bill proposed by East Bay Sen. Nancy Skinner that classifies robberies without deadly weapons or serious bodily harm as misdemeanors or petty thefts instead of felonies, according to CBS 13.



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A Skinner spokesperson told ABC7 News anchor Dion Lim that the bill is headed for a hearing on May 20. The senator was reportedly deeply troubled to hear about Chans attack and is committed to working with API leaders to end these attacks and to address the lies and propaganda that have fed racism and intolerance.



Whether the attack against Chan was motivated by anti-Asian hate is yet to be determined, Oakland Police Capt. Bobby Hookfin told the San Francisco Chronicle. Anyone with information is asked to contact investigators at (510) 238-3326.



Featured Images via Henry K. Lee / KTVU (left) and Carl Chan (center, right)

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#TheyCantBurnUsAll Movement Makes Its Way to Los Angeles and San Francisco
ELIZABETH CITY, N.C.  Andrew Brown Jr., a Black man fatally shot by North Carolina sheriff's deputies last month, was remembered as a loving father at a funeral service Monday where civil rights leaders continued their calls for the bodycam video of Brown's death to be released.

Brown, 42, was shot five times, including once to the back of his head when deputies with the Pasquotank County Sheriff's Office were serving search and arrest warrants related to alleged drug offenses at his Elizabeth City home April 21.

Brown's family saw an edited clip of his death, but a judge ordered the full bodycam video not be released to the public.

"I know a con game when I see it," civil rights leader Al Sharpton said during a eulogy Monday. "Release the whole tape, and let the folks see what happened to Andrew Brown."

Sharpton was critical of authorities in North Carolina, comparing their acts to an unfair "shell game."

"You don't need time to get a tape out. Put it out. Let the world see what it is to see. If you got nothing to hide, then what are you hiding?" Sharpton said.

"Andrew was a Black man trying to make it into a society where Black men are born in danger," said the Rev. William Barber, leader of the Poor Peoples Campaign.

"I know a con game when I see it," Al Sharpton says, demanding the release of bodycam footage showing the death of Andrew Brown Jr. "Release the whole tape, and let the folks see what happened," Sharpton says during a eulogy May 3 at Fountain of Life Church in Elizabeth City, N.C.

The service featured songs and memories shared by Brown's family. In attendance were George Floyd's siblings, Eric Garner's mother, relatives of Daunte Wright and other families who lost loved ones to police killings.

"This must stop. Enough is enough. How many funerals do we have to have before we tell the Congress and the Senate that you have to do something about these times," Sharpton said, calling for passage of the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act.

Elton Ferebee remembered Brown as a proud father of seven and the "coolest cousin." Another family member, Sandra White, said Brown loved his children.

One of Brown's two adult sons, Jha'rod Ferebee, said he and his father were best friends.

Story continues

"Every time you see him, you see me, and every time you see me, you see him," he said. "I remember growing up, couldn't nobody tell me nothing wrong with my daddy."

"He would have loved this," Khalil Ferebee said of the service. "I just wish he were here with us."

"He's here. His physical being ain't here, but he's here with us," Jha'rod added.

Civil rights attorney Ben Crump also spoke and was joined on stage by other lawyers representing the family, including Harry Daniels and Bakari Sellers.

"We are here to make this plea for justice because Andrew was killed unjustifiably," Crump said. "Because Andrew cannot make the plea for justice, it is up to us to make the plea for justice."

More on Andrew Brown Jr.: Family waits for full video of Brown's death

Experts: Police fuel outrage over Andrew Brown Jr.s death by withholding information

This week, Brown's family is set to see more bodycam video of his death. When Judge Jeff Foster ruled last week against releasing the footage to the public, he ordered that Brown's family should see more than the 20-second clip they'd been shown.

My dad got executed just by trying to save his own life,'' Khalil Ferebee said last week. "Those officers were in no harm of him at all.''

Brown's family and protesters called for the full footage to be made public, but North Carolina law requires a judge's order to do so. Foster said he would reevaluate whether to release the footage within 30 to 45 days, after the State Bureau of Investigation completes its inquiry into the case and the district attorney can make any potential charging decision.

A coalition of media organizations, including USA TODAY's parent company, Gannett, petitioned to have the video released, but Foster ruled the media did not have standing.

Chantel Cherry-Lassiter, an attorney who was shown the bodycam clip alongside Brown's family, said the video shows Brown with his hands on the steering wheel of his car, not being a threat to deputies. She said the footage shows the deputies running up to Brown's car while shooting, and "he finally decides to try to get away, and he backs out, not going toward the officers at all."

District Attorney Andrew Womble called Cherry-Lassiter's account "patently false." Womble said Brown's vehicle made contact with the officers. "It is then and only then that you hear shots," Womble said.

Thursday, Sheriff Tommy Wooten released the names of seven deputies involved in the fatal shooting.

All seven were placed on administrative leave after the shooting. A review of body camera footage shows four of the deputies never fired a weapon, Wooten said in the news release. Those deputies have been reinstated to active duty.

Contributing: John Bacon, USA TODAY; The Associated Press

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Andrew Brown Jr. shooting: At funeral, Al Sharpton calls for bodycam
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Las Vegas, Nevada - A Seattle man was sentenced Wednesday to 4 years and eight months in federal prison for stealing victims identities, using those identities to steal vehicles from car dealerships in several states, and then selling these vehicles to unwitting buyers, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Christopher Chiou for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Aaron C. Rouse for the FBI.

According to court documents, from February 2016 to March 2016, Justin Lee Tripp, 48, and others conspired to use personal identities without authorization to purchase more than $230,980 of vehicles in Washington, Oregon, California, and Nevada. As part of the scheme, Tripp and a co-conspirator obtained other peoples personal information, produced false identification cards that included Tripps and the co-conspirators photographs, and used fraudulent lines of credit to purchase electronics and vehicles  including a Ford F350 pickup truck, a 5th Wheel RV trailer; and a Dodge Ram pickup truck.

In March 2016, Tripp attempted to buy two jet skis and a trailer at a Las Vegas dealership using a counterfeit drivers license, fraudulent credit card, and a fraudulent money order. Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department officers attempted to arrest Tripp who resisted multiple commands, assaulted the officers, and attempted to flee. After a struggle, officers arrested Tripp. At the time of his arrest, Tripp possessed a forged drivers license and two fraudulent credit cards. During a search of the stolen truck Tripp drove to the Las Vegas dealership, officers found two California license plates that were reported stolen, and a loaded 9mm semi-automatic pistol that was reported stolen in Washington. Officers also searched a stolen 5th Wheel RV trailer and found methamphetamine, multiple license plates, a backpack containing burglary tools, and a forgery lab used to produce counterfeit documents that were used to further the fraud scheme.

At the time of the crime spree, Tripp was a convicted felon serving a federal term of supervised release in the Western District of Washington.

Tripp pleaded guilty in September 2020, to one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft. In addition to the prison term, U.S. District Judge Andrew P. Gordon sentenced Tripp to three years of supervised release.

The case was investigated by the FBI and Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly Frayn prosecuted the case.
Arizona News

Tucson, Arizona - Omar Stephenson, 32, a Jamaican-born man living in Snellville, Georgia, was sentenced Monday by United States District Judge James A. Soto to 57 months in prison. Stephenson is one of four co-defendants who have been charged in connection with a lottery fraud scheme. Stephenson previously pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering.

Starting in 2015 through mid-2019, Stephenson participated in a scheme where Jamaican-based scammers called elderly victims in the United States, claiming the victims had won a lottery. To receive their winnings, the victims were told they must first pay money for taxes and fees. Stephensons role in this scheme was to launder the fraudulent proceeds for fellow co-conspirators in Jamaica. The loss suffered by the victims exceeded $900,000.

As part of his sentence, Stephenson will also be required to pay restitution. A separate hearing is scheduled for June 2 to determine the amount of that restitution.

The U.S. Attorneys Office encourages the public to be wary of similar scams and to verify with law enforcement and family members before sending money after a phone solicitation.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Internal Revenue Service  Criminal Investigation, United States Postal Inspection Service, and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation in this case. The U.S. Attorneys Office, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution.

CASE NUMBER: CR-19-00917-JAS-1

RELEASE NUMBER: 2021-029_Stephenson
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Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-04 01:55:51|Editor: huaxia

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BERLIN, May 3 (Xinhua) -- German police shut down the international child pornography platform "Boystown" after three alleged administrators and another suspect, all German citizens, were arrested in mid-April, the Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) announced on Monday.

The darknet platform had been operational since at least June 2019 and was globally used by more than 400,000 members for exchanging child pornography, the BKA said in a statement.

After several months of global investigations in cooperation with Interpol and national law enforcement agencies from the Netherlands, Sweden, Australia, the United States and Canada, German police arrested a 40-year-old man from Paderborn and a 49-year-old man from Munich, the statement said.

Following an international arrest warrant, a 58-year-old German living in Paraguay was also arrested and would be accordingly handed over to authorities in Germany, according to the BKA.

"Those who prey on the weakest are nowhere safe," said Minister of the Interior Horst Seehofer on Twitter in response to the arrests, stressing that the German government would hold perpetrators accountable and "do what is humanly possible to protect children from such repugnant crimes."

In addition to the technical implementation of the darknet site, the main suspects allegedly gave advice to members of the platform on how to minimize the risk of detection by law enforcement agencies, according to the BKA.

The fourth arrest, a 64-year-old man from Hamburg, had been registered on the platform since July 2019 and was accused as "one of the most active users," posting 3,500 pieces of child pornography content, said the statement. Enditem
In an online press conference, Antony Blinken expressed concern over media pluralism in Hungary and called for a more diverse media environment.

Answering a question by Telex during a virtual international meeting with eight invited journalists, Antony Blinken called it ironic that concerns over press pluralism should emerge after Hungary got rid of Soviet domination.



The US Secretary of State urged the government to promote an open environment and warned that in their efforts to compete with the West, China and Russia undermine the democratic and sovereign will of many countries in the region. He also remarked that the US wants to improve cooperation with Hungary on economic matters and energy security as well as to support democratic institutions, rule of law and human rights.



Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto dismissed Antony Blinkens criticism. Szijjarto said that the US should not worry about democracy in Hungary, because Prime Minister Orban is a freedom fighter and the first politician to openly demand the withdrawal of Soviet troops in 1989.



Magyar Nemzets Zsolt Bayer likens the call for more open media by the US Secretary of State to colonial diktats.



The pro-government pundit finds it ironic that Antony Blinken is concerned about media freedom in Hungary, while, as he puts it, an employee of CNN in secretly recorded footage openly admitted that CNN operated as a propaganda machine and did everything to weaken President Trumps chances in the 2020 election.



Bayer also claims that US online media firms censored reports about Hunter Bidens corrupt business in Ukraine. Bayer goes on to accuse the US and Secretary of State Blinken in person of an imperial mindset akin to the Soviet mentality which tried to cow Hungarians into accepting Soviet ideology.



The US wants to use its ideological power to promote US interests, he adds, including selling relatively expensive shale gas in Central Europe.



This opinion does not necessarily represent the views of XpatLoop.com or the publisher.



Your opinions are welcome too - for editorial review before possible publication online.



Click here to Share Your Story
There have been growing pains since the school opened last August. Some families have left and others have come on board.

Theyve decided to create their own state-certified curriculum instead of using Blossom and Root. Mortgage payments are now part of the fees.

Whats funny, said Jorden Brooks, whose children Luka and Harper Vanek attend, is with all the challenges that usually surround discussing money, its never been a problem for the co-op. That was a happy surprise.

We dont all pay the same amount, which is what makes us a full cooperative, she said. The more volunteer times you are able to put in, the less monetary value you can put in. Some parents dont teach.

Instead, they may be busy on weekends helping turn a house into a school. The Benson home, which is close to many of them, now gives them space for a library, teachers lounge, three classrooms, a large backyard and a basement and attic to grow into when the time is right.

The house was in the middle of renovations when they closed on it in March. It had no appliances and they had to install things like baseboards and tiles.
The alleged victim told police he was on a walk, listening to music, around 5 a.m., and was in the area of the colleges prayer chapel when someone grabbed him from behind and pushed him to the ground. Two individuals punched and kicked him while he was on the ground. He attempted to fight back but could not. He sustained superficial abrasions to both knees. He stated that being punched and kicked caused him pain. The two individuals began going through his pockets but he did not have anything in them. The individuals took the hat he was wearing, which was then on the ground, and ran away.
New Delhi: The World Press Freedom Day is observed on May 3 of every year and is marked to celebrate the freedom of the press. The World Press Freedom Day was proclaimed by the United Nation General Assembly in 1993.

Every year, UNESCO organizes a conference to discuss the condition of press freedom worldwide with media professionals across the globe. In 2020, the theme for the conference was 'Journalism without Fear or Favour'.

UNESCO observes the day by honoring a deserving individual, organization or institution with UNESCO/Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Prize for making an outstanding contribution to the defence or promotion of press freedom anywhere in the world, especially if the freedom was achieved in unfavourable circumstances.

The Prize is named in honour of Guillermo Cano Isaza, a Colombian journalist who was assassinated in front of the office of his newspaper 'El Espectador'. The incident took place in Bogota on December 17 1986. Cano's writings had offended Colombia's powerful drug barons.

This is pertinent to note that in 2021, this day has come amid the military coup in Myanmar. It has come at a time when the media world is reporting the moves of the military government of Myanmar of suppressing the voices of people by shutting down the internet to arresting journalists. This, notably, has resulted in demolishing the right to free speech which is the elementary idea behind the freedom of the press.

The whole world is also currently struggling with the COVID-19 pandemic, the outbreak of which has been put on China by numerous media houses. However, the exact information has not been able to come out clearly due to the surveillance policies of the Chinese government.

This claim can also be supported by the shreds of evidence that tells about the number of journalists in China's jails and its ranking on the world press freedom index. It is currently positioned at the fourth from the bottom, ie, at 177 out of 180 countries.

On the other hand, Norway has been at the top of the table of freedom of the press for five consecutive years.



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Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 05:13:42|Editor: huaxia

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LOS ANGELES, May 2 (Xinhua) -- Two people were killed and 23 others transported to hospitals after a vessel overturned Sunday off the coast of the U.S. city of San Diego, authorities said.

Multiple agencies including San Diego Lifeguards rescued 25 people from the water, said the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department on Twitter.

"Sadly, two did not survive. 23 were taken to local hospitals," the department tweeted, adding that U.S. federal agencies "are still searching the water in vessels and aircraft."

The incident was reported near 200 Catalina Boulevard around 10:30 a.m. local time, U.S. media reported, citing the department.

The vessel overturned in the waters off Point Loma, a rugged peninsula known for the Cabrillo National Monument, San Diego's only National Park.

Park officials said on Twitter after the incident that the tidepools of the park "are temporarily closed" and they "will post an update later today when the area reopens."

San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria said on Twitter that the city's firefighters, lifeguards, and police are assisting the U.S. Coast Guard and Port of San Diego Harbor Police in the rescue effort.

"I ask San Diegans to keep the boat's passengers in your prayers," he noted.

The details of the incident and the identities of the victims have not yet been made public by authorities. U.S. officials said they "will be updating the public later today." Enditem
New Delhi: The Andhra Pradesh government on Monday (May 3) decided to impose a partial curfew across the state.

This curfew will start on May 5 and go on for two weeks to curb the recent surge of COVID-19 cases. Lockdown-like restrictions will be in place in Andhra Pradesh from 12 noon to 6 am.

Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy announced this decision at a high-level COVID review meeting on Monday, according to news agency PTI.

Shops would be allowed to open daily from 6 am to 12 noon, with prohibitory orders under Section 144 CrPC in force.

Only emergency services would be allowed to move around after 12 pm as curfew would be clamped till 6 in the morning.

For the past few days, night curfew from 10 pm to 5 am is in force in the state to contain COVID-19.

But with the number of cases growing in record numbers daily, the Chief Minister decided to impose further restrictions to break the chain.

Meanwhile, the Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board on Monday permitted a few industries in Visakhapatnam to convert their existing nitrogen plants into medical oxygen generating units to meet the growing demand for oxygen due to spurt in COVID-19 cases.

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Hyderabad: The Andhra Pradesh government on Sunday (May 2, 2021) announced that the Class 12 board examinations are being postponed in the view of rising COVID-19 infections in the country.

The announcement comes days after the Andhra Pradesh High Court urged the states education board to reconsider its decision. The state government is scheduled to submit an affidavit on the issue in the court by May 3.

Education Minister Adimulapu Suresh said, In the view of Andhra Pradesh High Courts observation, we have decided to postpone the Class 12 board exams which were to begin from May 5.

There is no centralised rule in place to conduct the board exams. Some states have conducted them while some havent. We have made adequate arrangements for conducting the board exams in a safe manner keeping the safety of students and teachers on priority, the minister added.

Meanwhile, the opposition parties in the state as well as the students and parents have been demanding the state board to cancel the examinations for the past few weeks.

However last week, CM Y S Jaganmohan Reddy had ruled out the cancellation of the examinations.

(With inputs from IANS)

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New Delhi: The official results for the high-stakes assembly elections held in four states and one Union Territory are almost out now for the majority of the constituencies and barring West Bengal, the predictions of exit polls remained more or less close to the actual results and trends in Assam, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Puducherry.

As per the available trends and results on the Election Commission of India's website on Monday (May 3, 2021) morning, the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress (TMC) has retained power in West Bengal for the third consecutive time, whereas, the Left Democratic Front (LDF) headed by Pinarayi Vijayan has made the first re-election in 44 years. In Tamil Nadu, MK Stalin's Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) has dethroned incumbent Edappadi K Palaniswami's All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), while the Bharatiya Janata Party-led alliances (BJP) have won in Assam and Puducherry.

TMC retains West Bengal again

The battleground of West Bengal was considered to be the most important one and as the exit polls suggested, people were expecting a close fight between the ruling Trinamool Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party. However, Mamata Banerjee's 'Khela Hobe' in the West Bengal Assembly election 2021 showed why she is one of the indomitable fighters. According to the available trends and results, the Trinamool Congress won way more seats than the halfway mark. They have so far won 209 seats and are leading in 4, out of the 292 assembly constituencies. The Bharatiya Janata Party which did intense campaigning considering its overwhelming result in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, was restricted to double-digit. The saffron party won 76 seats and is leading in one.

LDF makes remarkable comeback

Pinarayi Vijayan's Left Democratic Front has scripted history by winning the Kerala Assembly election 2021. The LDF broke Kerala's record of voting out every incumbent government for the past four decades and made the first re-election in over 44 years.

In the 140-member Assembly, the LDF's final tally was the Communist Party of India-Marxist 62, the Communist Party of India 17, the Kerala Congress-Mani five, the Janata Dal-Secular and the Nationalist Congress Party two each and the Loktantrik Janta Dal, the Indian National League, Congress-Secular, the Revolutionary Socialist Party-L and Kerala Congress-B one each.

DMK wins Tamil Nadu

MK Stalin's DMK has won 112 seats and is leading in 20, according to the latest results and trends on the Election Commission of India website for the 234-seat assembly. AIADMK took 61 seats and is ahead in 6 seats, whereas, the Bharatiya Janata Party won 3 and is leading in 1 seat.

Congress, a DMK ally, also won 15 and is currently leading in 3 seats. DMK's other allies CPI and CPI (M) have won two seat each, while the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) has won four seats.

Lotus blooms in Assam and Puducherry

In Assam, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party-led alliance won 75 seats of the total 126 assembly constituencies. As per the official result, the saffron party bagged 60 seats, while allies Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) and United People's Party, Liberal (UPPL) bagged nine and six seats respectively. Congress could get only 25 seats and All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) won 16 seats.

On the other hand, in Puducherry, the NR Congress, BJP and AIADMK alliance emerged victorious in the 30-seat assembly. The All India NR Congress secured 10 seats, while the BJP won six. Congress managed to get two seats, while DMK secured six seats and the independent candidates bagged six seats.

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New Delhi: A day after the vote-counting process end for assembly election in West Bengal, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday (May 3) alleged that at least four of its workers among total nine people were killed in the state. The saffron party hit out at Bengal Chief Minister Mamata for violence targeting its members and supporters.

"In a tweet, BJP general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya, who is the party's in-charge for the state, said its four workers have been killed and over 4,000 houses ransacked in incidents of post-poll result violence." The Union Home Ministry has also asked the West Bengal government for a report on the violence targeting opposition workers. ? Banerjee led her party Trinamool Congress to a massive win in the state.

Attacking her for the violent incidents, BJP general secretary B L Santhosh said, "Listen @MamataOfficial ... It's your duty to protect the people of state which has given the mandate to you. But you never were a CM with compassion. We will fight tooth & nail this time with 18 MPs & 77 MLAs."

BJP leaders also posted numerous videos and pictures of violent incidents allegedly committed by TMC supporters.

Earlier in the day, Mamata addressed a press meet where she accused the BJP and her supporters of harassing her and her party even after the results for the assembly elections were declared. She urged her supporters to maintain peace amid reports of violence from some areas, asking them not to fall prey to provocations. She also accused the Election Commission of working at behest of BJP and questioned that why did they not order recounting in Nandigram despite request.

"The central forces committed many atrocities on TMC supporters during the elections. Even after the results were announced, BJP attacked our supporters in certain areas but we ask our men not to get provoked and instead report to the police," Mamata said.

She alleged that some police officers had worked in a partisan manner against the TMC during the elections.

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New Delhi: In the view of the rising COVID-19 cases in the country the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) last month cancelled Class 10th exams and postponed Class 12 Board exams.

Following CBSEs decision many other state boards also adopted the same policy in order to safeguard children against the COVID-19 surge.

But in the latest developments, candidates across the nation are now urging the Education Ministry to cancel Class 12 Board exams.

ALSO READ: CBSE Class 10 Board Exam 2021: Result to be declared soon, check details here

Thousands of students have taken it to their social media accounts to raise the issue to the Education Ministry. Twitter is flooded with post with #cancel12thboardexams2021, which is also one of the top trends on the micro blogging website with over million tweets.

Check out some these tweets:

After A Successful Twitter #cancel12thboardexams2021 Campaign(1M+). Congratulations To All My Friends & A Very Thank You From Heart.I Hope Together We Will Make It In Our Favour! .We Have To Stay Strong!.I Hope We Will Win! #cancel12thboardexams2021 @VarshaEGaikwad pic.twitter.com/QEUyGHRIOr  Aditya Deshmukh (@aadi18_official) May 2, 2021

#SAVESTUDENTS TWITTER CAMPAIGN ON 2ND MAY USE ONLY ONE HASHTAG ITS FOR ALL THE STUDENTS SCHOOL COLLEGE AND OTHERS pic.twitter.com/lS00NsRPfl#cancel12thboardexams2021  NITIN SINGH (@NITIN08102002) May 2, 2021

ALSO READ: CBSE exams 2021 big update: Board announces policy for tabulation of class 10 papers

Earlier, while announcing the postponement of Class 12 board exam 2021, CBSE had said that the decision on the revised date sheet for examinations will be taken after June 1, 2021.

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New Delhi: West Bengal was in the throes of widespread violence on Monday (May 3) that allegedly left several BJP workers and supporters dead and injured in clashes. Zee News Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary on Monday (May 3) explained how Trinamool Congress is sponsoring violence carried out by its supporters and goons against those who cast their votes in favour of BJP in the assembly election.

Several shops were allegedly looted and almost thousands of houses were ransacked in Bengal, a day after the Trinamool Congress romped home, pocketing 213 of the 292 assembly seats that went to polls and secured a third straight term in office.

And while the Election Commission declared the result of the assembly election 2021 on Monday, the state also witnessed the results of casting votes for BJP. The result is that in South 24 Parganas district, people who voted for BJP, and the saffron party workers have been brutally attacked by alleged Trinamool Congress goons. Their houses have been damaged and shops have been looted. Results of political violence were also seen in Arambagh where the BJP office was vandalized and set ablaze by goons of Trinamool.

Similar incidents were also reported from Nandigram where after the poll panel announced BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari as the winner, some unidentified goons attacked his car and pelted stones on it. BJP workers and activitis were attacked in several areas in the state after the declaration of the poll result. In Sonarpur, a BJP worker was lynched by alleged goons.

All this happened after the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress comfortably won over 200 seats in West Bengal. And the Trinamool activists celebrated the occasion with a bloodbath.

If one takes a look at the record of post-poll violence in the state, the Trinamool, here too, will emerge victorious. In the last 24 hours, Trinamool workers have been accused of killing at least five BJP supporters. And these photos are the biggest proof of the coup.

These Trinamool Congress workers celebrating democracy after the assembly election result in West Bengal are clearly visible in these pictures. After the result declaration, the TMC workers penalised voters and activists who voted for the BJP in a barbarous manner, that led to West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankar and the Ministry of Home Affairs expressing their concerns.

Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankar said, "I am troubled and worried about the many reports of violence, arson and killings from different parts of the state. Party offices, houses and shops are under attack and the situation is worrisome." He summoned state Home Secretary, DGP and Kolkata Commissioner of Police and directed them to restore peace.

One thing that needs to be noted here that Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who claimed that she was being assaulted during an election campaign, is once again silent on the violent episode. This is because the violence is taking place against people who supported and cheered for BJP during the election. This leads to the question to whether democracy is in danger in West Bengal?

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New Delhi: India reported a spike of 3,68,147 fresh coronavirus infections, taking the cumulative caseload to 1,99,25,604 on Monday (May 3, 2021), as per data by the health ministry.

The country's total COVID-19 caseload has now increased to 1.99 crore (1,99,25,604), of which, 34.13 lakh (34,13,642) are active cases. India has also witnessed 3,417 deaths in the last 24 hours, taking the toll to 2.18 lakh (2,18,959) coronavirus-related deaths.

The Ministry of Health has identified and marked ten states, including Maharashtra, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Chattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, for the highest COVID-19 active cases.

The Supreme Court on Sunday (May 2, 2021) advised the central and state governments to consider a complete COVID-19 lockdown to curb the spread of the deadly coronavirus in the country. The apex courts order comes after various sessions of hearing on the COVID-19 pandemic situation.

"In light of the continuing surge of infections in the second wave of the pandemic, we direct the Central Government and State Governments to put on record the efforts taken to curb the spread of the virus and the measures that they plan on taking in the near future," Supreme Court said.

"At the same time, we would seriously urge the Central and State Governments to consider imposing a ban on mass gatherings and super spreader events. They may also consider imposing a lockdown to curb the virus in the second wave in the interest of public welfare," it added.

The Supreme Court also issued a slew of directions to the Central and state governments on the COVID-19 situation and directed that no patient shall be denied hospitalisation or essential drugs in any State or Union Territory for lack of local residential or identity proof.

Additionally, leaders of 13 opposition parties, in a joint statement, have asked the Central government to launch a free mass vaccination drive across the country in view of the unprecedented surge in COVID-19 cases.

The signatories include Congress president Sonia Gandhi, JDS leader and former prime minister HD Deve Gowda, NCP leader Sharad Pawar, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray and TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee.

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New Delhi: Leaders of as many as 13 opposition parties in a joint statement have asked the Central government to launch a free mass vaccination drive across the country in view of the unprecedented surge in COVID-19 cases. The signatories include Congress president Sonia Gandhi, JDS leader and former prime minister HD Deve Gowda, NCP leader Sharad Pawar, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray and TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee.

According to the joint statement, "In times of the uncontrollable surge of the pandemic across our country, We call upon the Central government to focus all attention in ensuring the uninterrupted flow of Oxygen supplies to all hospitals and health centre across the country."



"We call upon the Central government to immediately launch a free Mass vaccination programme across the country," it said, adding "The budgetary allocation at Rs 35,000 crore for the vaccination programme must be utilised for this."

Notably, the deadly COVID wave claimed a record 3,689 more lives and active cases crossed the 33-lakh mark in India as Haryana and Odisha joined several other states that have been forced to reimpose lockdown or similar curbs in order to check the surge amid a shortage of hospital beds, medicines and oxygen for patients.

On Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reportedly reviewed various measures to augment human resources for effective management of the COVID-19 situation and possible steps discussed include incentivising students and pass-outs of medical and nursing courses to join the pandemic duty.

According to the Union Health Ministry, a total of 86,023 beneficiaries in the age group of 18-44 years received their first dose of COVID vaccine across 11 states on May 1 when phase 3 commenced.

The infection count climbed to 1,95,57,457 with 3,92,488 more people being confirmed positive for the disease. States like Tamil Nadu and West Bengal recorded their highest daily rise in cases on Sunday.

Meanwhile, the cumulative number of COVID-19 vaccine doses administered in the country has crossed 15.68 crores.

(With Agency Inputs)
New Delhi: After winning a bitterly fought battle with the BJP to record her third successive victory in the West Bengal Assembly elections, Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee has called a meeting with all winning candidates at TMC Bhawan on Monday at 4 pm.

The TMC supremo is expected to meet Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar in the evening today to stake claim to form the next government in the state. Earlier on Sunday night, gave this information through a tweet.

The governor tweeted, "Congratulated @MamataOfficial party win in West Bengal assembly elections. Tomorrow at 7 PM Honble CM will be calling on me at Raj Bhawan."

Congratulated @MamataOfficial party win in West Bengal assembly elections. Tomorrow at 7 PM Honble CM will be calling on me at Raj Bhawan.  Governor West Bengal Jagdeep Dhankhar (@jdhankhar1) May 2, 2021

Mamata Banerjee lost from Nandigram constituency in a tough contest with her protege-turned-opponent Suvendu Adhikari. The Election Commission, however, rejected TMCs demand for a recount of votes at Nandigram. Earlier on Sunday evening, a TMC delegation led by its Rajya Sabha MP Derek O Brien submitted a letter demanding recounting of votes.

As Mamata-led Trinamool Congress (TMC) is all set to form a government for a third consecutive term in West Bengal, several Opposition leaders from across party lines in the country have congratulated her for the victory and defeating the BJP in the state.

The poll results show that people of West Bengal have rejected the Bharatiya Janata Party`s attempt to polarise the elections. The BJP, which had left no stone unturned to dislodge the Banerjee government, failed to cross a three-digit figure despite its claims of getting 200-plus seats out of the state`s 294.

With leaders of different regional parties, including NCP chief Sharad Pawar, sending her congratulatory messages to give an indication that her resolute stand in taking the challenge of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah is winning support across the country.

The Congress, which failed to wrest Assam from the BJP and Kerala from the Left, insisted that it is the only option to the BJP. Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said, "Congress is the sole national party which is alternative to the BJP as it is fighting BJP in all the states."

Earlier, Congress Interim President Sonia Gandhi on Sunday spoke to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee over the phone and congratulated her for victory in the assembly elections in West Bengal.

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New Delhi: The swearing-in ceremony of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee will take place on May 5, i.e. on Wednesday. A day later, on May 6, all council of ministers will be sworn in by Protem speaker Subrata Mukherjee. Later, Biman Banerjee will hold the post of the Speaker.

Mamata Banerjee said that she would meet Bengal Governor Jagdish Dhankar at 7 pm on Monday and her party would take a call on the oath-taking and Cabinet formation in the evening. A day after the vote counting, the Bengal Chief Minister addressed a press meeting where she demanded a forensic examination into the Nandigram vote counting incident. Accusing the Election Commission of working at the behest of BJP, Mamata questioned that why did the poll panel not give permission for a recounting of votes in Nandigram.

Furthermore, Mamata claimed that the Returning Officer of Nandigram disclosed that recounting order could have led to his life risk. Requesting her supporters to maintain peace amid reports of violence, the Trinamool Supremo accused the BJP of harassing her and her party even after the results were declared. She also stated that this was the first time the Prime Minister did not call her on winning the Bengal assembly election.



Trinamool Congress sweeps Bengal assembly elections with 213 seats

The Trinamool Congress romped home in West Bengal, pocketing 213 of the 292 assembly seats that went to polls and secured a third straight term in office, according to the final results announced by the Election Commission. The Mamata Banerjee-led party's main challenger, the BJP, bagged 77 seats, while the ISF, which contested with the symbol of the Rashtriya Secular Majlis Party, and an Independent, managed one seat each. The Trinamool had clinched 211 seats in 2016.

Elections were held in 292 constituencies of the 294- member assembly. Polling was countermanded in two constituencies Jangipur and Samsergan after candidates fell victim to a raging COVID-19 pandemic.

The mercurial Banerjee, however, lost by 1,956 votes in Nandigram to former protege-turned-BJP adversary Suvendu Adhikari.

Apart from Adhikari, TMC turncoats Rajib Banerjee, Rudranil Ghosh, Baishali Dalmiya, Shilbhadra Dutta and Sabyasachi Dutta faced defeat.

Prominent Left Front candidates Ashok Bhattacharya, Mohammed Salim and Sujan Chakraborty along with Congress' Abdul Mannan and Manoj Chakraborty also ended up on the losing side.

BJP fails to cross double-digit in Bengal

Though BJP MPs Jagannath Sarkar and Nishit Pramanik won from Shantipur and Dinhata, respectively, other senior party leaders like Locket Chatterjee, Swapan Dasgupta and Babul Supriyo could not emerge triumphant.

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Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-03 07:29:26|Editor: huaxia

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OTTAWA, May 2 (Xinhua) -- Canada reported 7,145 new cases of COVID-19 Sunday, bringing the cumulative total to 1,234,181 cases, including 24,300 deaths, according to CTV.

Coronavirus variants now make up the majority of Canada's new COVID-19 cases, Theresa Tam, Canada's chief public health officer, said on Sunday.

As of Sunday afternoon, a cumulative total of 121,068 variants were reported, including 115,887 B.1.1.7 variants, 4,468 P.1 variants and 713 B.1.351 variants.

Variants of concern represent a majority of cases in Canada, with the B.1.1.7 variant now reported in all provinces and territories in the country and accounting for over 95 percent of variants of concern sequenced to date, Tam said on Twitter.

Tam reiterated that variants are more contagious and are associated with more severe outcomes, and some like the P.1 variant and the B.1.351 variant are more resistant to vaccines.

The B.1.1.7 has become the dominant strain in some provinces, with Manitoba saying last week it will stop notifying residents if they've contracted the variant as it now makes up the vast majority of cases.

Ontario, Canada's most populous province, confirmed 3,732 new COVID-19 cases on Sunday, 363 more cases than what was reported on Saturday.

Out of the 3,732 new cases, Ontario confirmed an additional 2,871 cases of the B.1.1.7 variant, bringing the total number to 72,313.

Alberta province reported 1,731 new cases of COVID-19 on Sunday as the number of ICU admissions set a new record in the province.

Of the 1,731 cases, 1,132 were the B.1.1.7 variants, 130 were the P.1 variants, and 12 were the B.1.351 variants.

The Alberta government has suspended the spring sitting of the legislature for two weeks due to surging numbers of COVID-19 cases in the province. Enditem
New Delhi: Amid the unprecedented surge in COVID-19 cases in India, the Lancet India Task Force has suggested a 'checklist' to reduce the number of infections across the country.

The report titled 'Country-wide Containment Strategies for Reducing COVID-19 Cases in India' published on April 30, 2021, said that the Task Force does not believe that there are binary choices to be made, or that there is 'one single policy option of a complete lockdown'.

It said that a series of actions are needed and some of these require closures, some require targeted containment, whereas, others need effective public messaging to influence individual behaviors.

The Lancet India Task Force said that 'no state is safe until all states work together' and that the country needs a coordinated response across all states in a systematic, synchronized manner.

"In areas where infections are spreading rapidly, short, severe closures may be required; where case counts are low, containment measures may be appropriate. Specific action may differ at the district level. But it is critical that all states act in unison, and as part of a coordinated strategy, spearheaded by the Government of India," the report said.

The Task Force also advised that states and districts should be categorized as low risk, medium risk, and hot spots based on the criteria it suggested.

Complete ban on gatherings of over 10 people

The Lancet India Task Force recommended a complete ban on gatherings of more than 10 persons at any given place, as well as closures of all venues that can host such gatherings for all medium risk and hot spot geographies. They also included family gatherings in view of the new COVID-19 variants with higher levels of infectiousness.

"We recommend that this ban be in place for as long as necessary to bring the epidemic to an end. For low risk areas, we recommend limited gatherings, subject to local situations, organized in the outdoors. We recommend continued closures of enclosed venues that can host such gatherings," they said.

They added that the experience from across the world has taught them that superspreader events are triggers for waves of infection.

"Large gatherings (more so indoors, but also outdoors) bring people together in proximity. Where people travel long distances to congregate, such gatherings help spread the virus as people return home, raising prospects of spreading infection along the journey and back in their home community," the report stated.

Closures of indoor spaces

The Lancet India Task Force recommended that all districts in the country which are COVID-19 hot spots should immediately shut indoor spaces including offices, office buildings, schools, restaurants with indoor dining, shops, shopping malls and places of worship. They suggested that this should be done in a synchronized, coordinated manner, for the same, pre-announced duration of time, so that there is a systematic reduction in cases in the hardest-hit parts.

They stated that the coronavirus is now also documented to be an airborne disease, spreading most effectively in confined, indoor spaces, where the virus can circulate for long periods of time.

"Confined spaces with poor ventilation, or air conditioning systems are riskiest for transmission. In those states where all the epidemiological parameters are high (COVID hot spots), we recommend the closure of all such spaces. Based on the experience of lockdowns from around the world, we know that such closures need to be in place for 6-10 weeks before case counts reduce," the report said.

Mandatory universal mask-wearing

The Task Force called for universal, mandatory mask-wearing in all confined, indoor spaces as well as outdoors, especially in crowded areas.

They recommended the use of well-fitted N95 (or equivalent masks) or double masking with surgical and cloth masks, especially in high-risk settings and said that the cloth masks offer only partial protection.

The Task Force also said that coronavirus spreads most effectively in closed, poorly ventilated spaces and suggested a sustained campaign on the importance of cross-ventilation in all indoor spaces including offices, shops, transport hubs, restaurants etc.

To read the complete report, click here

To see the complete checklist, click here
New Delhi: Uttar Pradesh on Monday (May 3, 2021) extended the partial 'corona curfew' due to rising COVID-19 cases. UP's Additional Chief Secretary, Information, Navneet Sehgal said that the curfew will remain in place till 7 am on May 6.

All shops and establishments will now remain closed till Thursday 7 am.

This arrangement is for this week only, he said adding that decision has been taken for breaking the chain of coronavirus.

During this period, all essential services will be allowed and the vaccination drive will continue.

On April 29, the state government had announced that weekend lockdowns will now cover Mondays too.

Uttar Pradesh recorded 290 new coronavirus deaths and 30,983 infections on Sunday. The state's toll has now risen to 13,162, while the total caseload has increased to 13.13 lakh. There are currently 2.96 lakh active cases in the state.

Earlier on April 26, the Allahabad High Court had advised the Uttar Pradesh government to impose a two-week lockdown amid the COVID-19 crisis. Bar and Bench quoted Justice Siddhart Varma as saying, I again request, if things are not in control then impose a two-week lockdown. Please suggest it to your policy makers. It is blowing out of proportion, that is the first thing it seems.

The Supreme Court on May 2 also advised the central and state governments to consider a complete COVID-19 lockdown to curb the spread of the virus. The apex court's order came after various sessions of hearing on the COVID-19 pandemic situation.

"In light of the continuing surge of infections in the second wave of the pandemic, we direct the Central Government and State Governments to put on record the efforts taken to curb the spread of the virus and the measures that they plan on taking in the near future," the Supreme Court said.

(With agency inputs)

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New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (May 4, 2021) will hold a virtual summit with United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

As per the release of the Ministry of External Affairs, the virtual summit is considered an important opportunity to elevate multi-faceted strategic ties and enhance cooperation on regional and global issues of mutual interest. Both leaders will also discuss COVID-19 cooperation and the global efforts to fight the pandemic.

The release from Ministry of External Affairs also added that a comprehensive roadmap 2030 will be launched during the Summit, which will pave the way for further expanding and deepening India-UK cooperation over the next decade across five key areas, namely people-to-people relationship, trade and prosperity, defence and security, climate action and healthcare.

India and the United Kingdom have worked together and have developed a strategic partnership since 2004. Both the countries have participated in high-level exchanges and growing convergences over a range of issues.

Meanwhile, S Jaishankar is also scheduled to participate in the G7 Foreign Ministers Meeting in London this week, from Monday to Thursday (May 3-6, 2021). India will be attending the G7 summit as an invited guest country. The External Affairs Minister will thereafter undertake a bilateral visit to the UK.

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New Delhi: The Education Ministry on Monday (May 3) dirceted all IITs, IIITs and other CFTIs to postpone all offline exams scheduled to be held in the month of May 2021. The ministry, however, observed that scheduled online examinations can go as per the schedule. The government will once again review the decision in the first week of June 2021, and convey its decision to various institutions, depending on the prevailing situation of COVID 19 in the country.

A recent tweet from ANI reads, "Due to the second wave of #COVID19, the Ministry of Education urged for postponement of all offline examinations scheduled in May. The Online examinations, etc. may, however, continue Ministry of Education".

The Education Ministry further added that educational institutions must ensure to provide immediate assistance to anybody from campus, if needed. "All Institutions have to encourage eligible persons to go for vaccination and ensure that everyone follows COVID-19 appropriate behavior to remain safe," the ministry said in a statement.

The decision of the Education Ministry of India will surely help to check the spread of the COVID 19 situation in the country.

So far, several institutions, universities, schools and colleges have announced cancellation and postponement of their exams in view of the current COVID-19 pandemic in the country.
New Delhi: Serum Institute of India CEO Adar Poonawalla, who has been in the UK on an extended stay to evade alleged threats in India over ever-increasing demand for COVID-19 vaccines, on Monday (May 3) issued a clarification on his previous statement on receiving extreme pressure and manufacturing of COVID-19 vaccine.

Releasing a statement on Twitter, Poonawalla wrote, "I would like to clarify things since my comments may have been misinterpreted. First of all, vaccine manufacturing is a specialized process, it is therefore not possible to ramp up production overnight. We also need to understand that the population of India is huge and to produce enough doses for all adults is not an easy task. Even the most advanced countries and companies are struggling in relatively smaller populations.

Secondly, we have been working closely with the Government of India since April last year. We have got all kinds of support, be it scientific, regulatory and financial. As of today, we received total orders of over 26 crore doses, of which we supplied more than 15 crore doeses. We also have got 10 per cent advance of Rs 1732.50 crroe by GOI fo the next tranche of 11 crroe doses in the next few months. Another 11 crroe dosese would be supplised in the second channel for states and private hospitals in the next few months. Lastly, we undestand that everyone wants the vaccine to be available in the quickest possible time. That is our endeavour too and we are making every effort to achieve that. We shall work even harder and strengthen India's fight against COVID-19."

The statement from India's COVID-19 vaccine maker Adar Poonawalla comes at a time when he alleged during an exclusive interview with 'Times' that he ad been receiving threats in India and that he and his family left the country for London after unprecedented "pressure and aggression" over the demand of vaccines. However, later, Poonawalla stated that he would return to the country in a few days.

Amongst multiple reports it is important that correct information be shared with the public. pic.twitter.com/nzyOZwVBxH  Adar Poonawalla (@adarpoonawalla) May 3, 2021

On Monday, a Maharashtra minister said that Poonawalla should lodge a police complaint in connection with the alleged threats that he has received, and assured the state government will conduct an in-depth probe into it. "Poonawalla should lodge a complaint giving details of threat and the phone number from where he got the call. We will conduct an in-depth probe into it," Minister of State Home Shamburaje Desai told reporters.

Meanwhile, Maharashtra Congress president Nana Patole urged Poonawalla to return to India and assured that his party will take the responsibility of his security. "People's lives are important and the vaccine production should take place in India only. The Centre has already given him 'Y' category security. More (security) would be given if necessary," he said.

The Congress will also take the responsibility of protecting him, said Patole, whose party shares power in Maharashtra with the Shiv Sena and NCP. "No one will touch him. He should return and work on vaccine production," the Congress leader said.

Earlier, NCP leader and Maharashtra Housing Minister Jitendra Awhad said the country needs to know the truth behind the alleged threats to Poonawalla.



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Lucknow: Spokesperson of Bharatiya Janata Party in Uttar Pradesh Manoj Mishra died due to COVID-19 in the wee hours on Monday (May 03, 2021).

He was admitted to a hospital in Kanpur after he had tested positive for COVID-19. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath condoled his demise.

"Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath ji has expressed deep grief on the demise of Dr Manoj Mishra, senior spokesperson of the Bharatiya Janata Party," read a statement issued by the Chief Minister's office.

The Chief Minister also expressed condolences to the bereaved families, it said.

Meanwhile, India reported a spike of 3,68,147 fresh coronavirus infections, taking the cumulative caseload to 1,99,25,604 on Monday (May 3, 2021), as per data by the health ministry.

The country's total COVID-19 caseload has now increased to 1.99 crore (1,99,25,604), of which, 34.13 lakh (34,13,642) are active cases. India has also witnessed 3,417 deaths in the last 24 hours, taking the toll to 2.18 lakh (2,18,959) coronavirus-related deaths.

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Kolkata: Following TMCS landmark victory in West Bengal, BJP State President Dilip Ghosh addressed a press conference on Sunday (May 2, 2021) in which the BJP leader said that his party will learn from its mistakes and is now already gearing up for 2026 polls.

Well look into what went wrong. In the last election we won 3 seats, this time it is nearly 80. We had put a big target in front of us but we couldn't achieve it. However, what we have got is not less, said West Bengal BJP President Dilip Ghosh.

The BJP state president also said that the party had set an ambitious target of 200-plus seats in West Bengal, adding that, even though his party has not been able to achieve their desired goal, they indeed have made a big leap from last elections.

"We had set a huge target, had made a big leap but could not succeed. We were unsuccessful in claiming the confidence and credibility of the voters. Thanks to our workers who have been with us for very long, Ghosh said.

If the results are being compared with the last 5 years, in the 2016 assembly elections we won only 3 seats and this year's number is 80, which is a huge difference. We have started our work for the 2026 Assembly elections and we need to work hard and rectify ourselves. We will go ahead step by step," he added.

Meanwhile, according to the available trends and results, the Trinamool Congress have won 209 seats and are leading in 4, out of the 292 assembly constituencies.

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New Delhi: Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia on Monday (May 3) said that the vaccination against COVID-19 has begun 301 centers for beneficiaries age 18-44 across the national capital.

After his visit to Vinod Nagar vaccination center, he told media persons, "Vaccination has started at 76 schools of Delhi Govt today. With this, vaccination has begun at 301 centers for 18-45 age group. Our target is to make 10 centers at a school. We'll continue to expand the number of centers as we receive more vaccines."

Manish Sisodia further said, "We received 4.5 lakh vaccine doses on May 1. We're in touch with vaccine manufacturers. We have given appointments to 45,150 people for vaccination today. People are very eager for taking the vaccines. We hope for 100 percent turnout."

On the supply of Oxygen to Delhi, he said, "Yesterday, Delhi received 440 MT of oxygen which is lower than the allocated quota of 590 MT. We need 976 MT oxygen daily as we are increasing the number of beds."

"We need urgent help to transport oxygen. We have sought help from different sources including the Army, Central government and its different wings, and private sector for transportation of oxygen," Sisodia said

Earlier in the day, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal informed that he will be chairing a meeting of government officers regarding home isolation today. Manish Sisodia and the chief secretary will also remain present in the meeting.

On Sunday, Lieutenant Governor of Delhi Anil Baijal asked concerned departments and agencies to submit an action plan with regard to the availability of hospital beds, medicines, medical oxygen as well as increasing the capacity of crematoriums and graveyards amid a surge in COVID-19 cases in the national capital.

In a tweet from its official handle, LG office said, "Lt Governor has sought further advise from concerned departments and agencies with regard to the availability of key medicines, beds, medical oxygen and augmentation of capacities at crematoriums and graveyards, with the aim of addressing the ongoing problems being faced by people."

"LG has also suggested that the possibility of reemploying recently retired Doctors and other paramedical staff, where ever required, be looked into to address shortages," he further added.

Delhi`s new COVID-19 cases slightly dipped on Sunday to 20,394 but the city saw 407 deaths in the last 24 hours. This is the second consecutive day when the national capital witnessed saw more than 400 deaths.

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Kolkata: The Governor of West Bengal Jagdeep Dhankhar on Monday (May 3) had to summon the Director General of Police over the violation of law and order in the state by political party workers and supporters.

Incidents of violence are being reported in several districts in the state and the Governor of Bengal had to summon the DGP to review the situation and plan action to maintain law and order.

He posted on Twitter saying, Have been constrained to urgently summon DGP @WBPolice in the wake alarming law and order in the State.

Have been constrained to urgently summon DGP @WBPolice in the wake alarming law and order in the State.  Governor West Bengal Jagdeep Dhankhar (@jdhankhar1) May 3, 2021

Apart from reports of Suvendu Adhikari getting attacked and heckled after his victory in the Nandigram constituency, the Bharatiya Janata party has also accused TMC workers of setting a party office on fire,

The BJP also claimed that one of its members was severely beaten up by TMC activists in the city's Beleghata area, a charge denied by the Mamata Banerjee camp.

Supporters of the two parties came to blows following heated arguments over election results in Barasat area of North 24 Parganas, police said according to news agency PTI.

The Trinamool Congress romped home in West Bengal, pocketing 213 of the 292 assembly seats that went to polls and secured a third straight term in office, according to the final results announced by the Election Commission.

The Mamata Banerjee-led party's main challenger, the BJP, bagged 77 seats, while the ISF, which contested with the symbol of the Rashtriya Secular Majlis Party, and an Independent, managed one seat each.

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Mumbai: Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPI) ended their buying spree in April as they pulled out net investments worth Rs 9,659 crore from Indian equities during the month.

The reversal in trend came at a time when the surging Covid cases and the resultant lockdowns spooked investor sentiments.

The FPIs turned net sellers after a gap of five months. In September, FPIs pulled out net investments worth Rs 7,783 crore.

Along with the second wave of Covid-19, weakness in the Indian rupee also led to the outflow of foreign funds last month, analysts said.

The net FPI investment in 2020 now stands at Rs 46,083 crore, including the net investments of Rs 19,473 crore, Rs 25,787 crore and Rs 10,482 crore in January, February and March, respectively.

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#mute
by Joseph Shieber

The traditional assumption in the United States has been that each person is individually responsible for their own health care. In other words, the US has a system in which the wealthy are able to afford more or better care (with the understanding that more care does not always lead to better health outcomes!), and the poor are able to afford less or no care.

There is something intuitively appealing about the idea that you should be rewarded in relation to the work that youve done or the results that youve achieved. Its the basis of the well-known childrens fable, The Little Red Hen, in which the hen tries to get her fellow barnyard animals (dog, goose, etc.) to help her sow the seeds, reap the wheat, grind the grain, and bake the bread. Since none of the other animals are willing to help, when the bread is done the hen eats it all herself. In fact, the fable is so intuitively plausible that folksy free-market hero Ronald Reagan  pre-Presidency  used it himself.

The idea behind The Little Red Hen is so intuitively appealing that its not just limited to free market views. Even socialist thinkers from pre-Marxists like Ricardian socialists to later theorists like Lenin and Trotsky embraced the formula, To each according to his works, rather than Marxs To each according to his needs.

Indeed, in a very useful paper, Luc Bovens and Adrien Lutz trace back the dual threads of to each according to his works and to each according to his needs to the New Testament. So, for example, in Romans 2:6, we see that God will render to each one according to his works (compare Matthew 16:27, 1 Corinthians 3:8).

In contrast, in Acts 4:35, we read that There was not a needy person among them, for as many as were owners of lands or houses sold them and brought the proceeds of what was sold  and it was distributed to each as any had need (compare Acts 2:45).

The deep textual roots of these two rival maxims suggests that each exerts a strong intuitive pull  though perhaps not equally strong to everyone.

Public health emergencies, however, reveal the fragility inherent in the motto of to each according to his works when it comes to health systems. Everyones health is interconnected, and that the ability of each individual to fight infection depends in part on everyone elses having done their part.

The most recent illustration of this comes from the threat of a pandemic of the newly-discovered COVID-19 virus. One of the effects of this threat is that it has led to strong questions about economic inequality and fairness of access to medical supplies and a potential vaccine.

For example, there was a widespread outcry when the current United States Secretary of Health and Human Services, Alex Azar, refused to guarantee that a vaccine for the COVID-19 virus would be affordable for all. Those comments sparked renewed attention to Mr. Azars own troubling history with questionable pharmaceutical price increases.

In the ten years from 2007 until his nomination to the HHS position in 2017 in which Mr. Azar worked for the drug manufacturer Eli Lilly, that company recorded a three-fold increase in the price of insulin. This is despite the fact that insulin, which is necessary for diabetes sufferers to manage their condition, has not been substantially improved since its first medical use almost a century ago.

This outcry, while understandable, actually misses the deeper point about why Mr. Azars actions should concern us. Even if someone resists the moral pull of to each according to his needs in favor of the competing maxim to each according to his works, the application of that maxim in the case of public health emergencies can lead to catastrophe for all.

Public health experts note that two of the most important weapons in the fight against pandemics are early detection of those infected and widespread vaccination. The to each according to his works model of healthcare removes both of those weapons from our arsenal.

When Mr. Azar, who is himself a lawyer and has no medical or public health expertise, fails to guarantee that any COVID-19 vaccine will be widely available, he weakens the effectiveness of vaccines as a weapon against the spread of infection. Vaccines work best when theyre distributed widely among at-risk populations.

Mr. Azars comments, in other words, are an indication that the Administration fails to grasp that  unlike Presidential pardons, perhaps  public health crises do not discriminate on the basis of celebrity or outsize wealth. Rather, the health of each one of us depends on all of us doing our part.

The to each according to his works model also threatens the other weapon against pandemic, early detection. If only those who can afford to get tested for COVID-19 report themselves to authorities, then we wont know how widespread the disease in fact is.

To take an extreme example of this, the Miami Herald recently reported on Osmel Martinez Azcue, who sought a test for COVID-19 after returning from a work trip to China and experiencing flu-like symptoms. Although Azcue was simply acting in the way recommended by the Centers for Disease Control to be in the best interests of public health, he now faces thousands of dollars of medical bills from his insurance company, the hospital where he sought testing for the virus, and the individual doctors who treated him.

Unfortunately, these troubling examples seem themselves to be systematic of wider trends that do not inspire confidence in the ability of the United States to deal with the growing threat of COVID-19.

Profit-seeking is already causing obstacles to efforts to combat the public health risk posed by COVID-19. Stockpiling and price-hikes are making it difficult for medical personnel to acquire the masks and protective gear they need to stop spreading infection further.

Although the United States has lost valuable time in planning for this impending health care crisis while it was still contained in China, it is not too late to take steps to blunt the impact of the infection. In order to do so, however, the Administration must appreciate that pandemics do not distinguish on the basis of immigration status, ethnicity, or income. To fight COVID-19 effectively, we must begin by appreciating that were all in this together.
New Delhi: Bollywood actor Arjun Kapoor recently appeared on the Discovery+ show 'StarVsFood' and was seen whipping up a dish along with the professional chef Gulaam Gouse Deewani.

After his stint as a chef, in a separate segment of the show, Kapoor reveals what dishes he would cook for his celeb friends including Ranveer Singh, Karan Johar, Parineeti Kapoor, Shraddha Kapoor, and ladylove Malaika Arora.

The 'Sardar Ka Grandson' actor expressed that for his girlfriend and ladylove Malaika Arora he would bake her a sweet dish as she has a 'sweet tooth'.

He said, "She has a sweet tooth. So if I could, I would actually make a healthy dessert."

Arjun was also asked what he would cook for his good friend and Bollywood's most vivacious star Ranveer Singh for which he had a hilarious answer!

He said, "I think I would just give him a lot of..Sugar would give him a high, uh caffeine would be.. He's born with caffeine in his system. What would I give this guy? Actually, I would starve him so that he has a little less energy. That's what I would do. But no, with all my love, I would make for him 'Sindhi Kadhi and Rice' because he's a Sindhi and I'm sure he would enjoy that."

In the same episode, Arjun Kapoor also opened up on battling weight issues.

He also mentioned the time his parents - producer Boney Kapoor and late wife Mona Kapoor separated. "When my parents split up, I looked at food for comfort. I got caught up in the way I felt emotionally so I started eating and then I really enjoyed eating," he said.

On the work front, Arjun Kapoor's 'Sardar Ka Grandson' is scheduled to release on May 18, 2021, on Netflix. The film features Neena Gupta, Rakulpreet Singh, Kanlwajit Singh, John Abraham, Aditi Rao Hydari, and Kumud Mishra.

It is helmed by Kaashvi Nair.
New Delhi: Due to the spiralling COVID-19 cases, the demand for medicines, injections, oxygen cylinders, and ICU beds has gone high. However, in such a crisis, there are a few raking in moolah by selling fake medicines.

Bollywood actor-filmmaker Farhan Akhtar has slammed all those and called them out on social media.

The Rock On actor took to Twitter to share his disappointment and anger with the netizens. In his post, he lambasted them and wrote, "Seen a news report of people manufacturing & selling fake Covid medication. You have to be a special kind of monster to con people in these dark & desperate times. Shame on you, whoever you are!!!"

Seen a news report of people manufacturing & selling fake Covid medication. You have to be a special kind of monster to con people in these dark & desperate times. Shame on you, whoever you are!!!  Farhan Akhtar (@FarOutAkhtar) May 2, 2021

On the work front, Farhan will be next seen in the film Toofan. In the film, Farhan will be seen in a role of a boxer. The film is directed by Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra and is all set to release on Amazon Prime Video on May 21.

Other than that, the actor will also be seen in a project collaborating with Marvel Studios for which he has recently wrapped up his shooting in Bangkok.
New Delhi: Global sensation Priyanka Chopra has been quite active in raising awareness and raising funds for the worsening COVID-19 crisis in India. Recently, the actress took to her Instagram to amplify her Bollywood colleague and humanitarian Sonu Sood's new appeal to the government.

She also penned down a caption praising the actor's humanitarian deeds in times of a crisis and called him a 'visionary philanthropist'. She urged her fans to ponder upon the issue and try to do whatever they can in their capacity to help children who've lost their parents due to COVID-19.

She wrote, "Have you heard of visionary philanthropists? My colleague @sonu_sood is one such. He thinks and plans ahead."

She added, "Think this one out carefully because the impact is long-term and it involves childrenamongst the many horror stories of the pandemic, this is regarding those children who have lost one or both parents due to COVID-19. The disruption, for many, sadly leads to a complete stop in their education due to the combination of loss and economic factors due to that loss."

"Firstly, I am inspired that Sonu made this critical observation. Secondly, in typical Sonu style, he has also thought of a solution and come up with some suggestions for action. Sonus suggestion is to both the state and central governments to ensure free education for all children affected by Covid. Whatever stage of studies they are atschool, college, or pursuing higher studies. The aim is not to allow a pause and definitely not for the lack of finance. If ignored, a huge number of children would be left without the opportunity as adults", she further wrote.

Have a look at her post:

After the 'Dostana' actress made the post, Smriti Irani took to the comment section and shared the helpline to call if one finds an orphaned child. She informed that every State government and district authority is on alert to help provide support to children in need and distress.

She also urged her fans to help in an individual capacity for those who can fund a child's education.

Earlier, the actress had urged fans to donate to the fundraiser she had set up at GiveIndia to help those affected by the pandemic.

She further said 27 million people follow her on Twitter and urged them to donate whatever they can spare. The funds, she informed, will go towards creating medical infrastructure, isolation centres, oxygen supply, medical equipment, and vaccine support.

On the work front, Priyanka is shooting for the Amazon-backed spy series 'Citadel' co-starring Richard Madden. The project is helmed by the Russo Brothers of 'Avengers' fame. The actress had completed shooting for 'Text for You' with Sam Heughan, Celine Dion, Russell Tovey, and Omid Djalili.

According to reports, the 'desi girl' will also be seen in an Indian wedding comedy with Mindy Kaling, which she will co-produce and feature in. She also has 'Matrix 4' in the pipeline.
New Delhi: Before visiting your bank branch in the month of May, you must note down the list of important days during which banks will remain closed. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has mentioned some days when the banking operations will remain closed in the month of May 2021, although online banking activities will continue to work.

Banks will remain closed for total 12 days in the month of May, as per the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) holiday calendar list, although banking activities in different states may vary from each other.

Reserve Bank of India places its Holidays under three brackets --Holiday under Negotiable Instruments Act; Holiday under Negotiable Instruments Act and Real Time Gross Settlement Holiday; and Banks Closing of Accounts.

However, it must be noted that the bank holidays vary in various states as well not observed by all the banking companies. Banking holidays also depend on the festivals being observed in specific states or notification of specific occasions in those states.

Here is an elaborate list of bank holidays falling in the month of May 2021. Check out the list.

Maharashtra Din/May Day (Labour Day): May 1

Jumat-ul-Vida: May 7

Ramzan-Id (Id-Ul-Fitr) (Shawal-1): May 13

Bhagvan Shree Parshuram Jayanti/Ramjan-Eid (Eid-UI-Fitra)/Basava Jayanti/Akshaya Tritiya: May 14

Buddha Pournima: May 26

Apart from the above bank holidays, the second and fourth Saturdays of the month are falling on 8 and 22 May. There will be no work in banks on this day. Also, there are Sunday holidays on 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 May.

Holidays of the mentioned days will be observed in various regions according to the state declared holidays, however for the gazetted holidays, banks will be closed all over the country.

If you keep a track of these holidays, you would be able to plan bank transaction activities in a better way. For long weekends, you can even plan your holidays well.

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New Delhi: State Bank of India (SBI) has issued a new notification for its crores of customers across the country. As per the bank, all account holders have been asked to update their account's KYC without delay. Failing to do so will mean that the banking services of those customers will be frozen.

SBI Accounts will freeze after May 31

Sharing this information on its official Twitter handle, SBI said, Customers will have to update KYC by 31 May 2021 to continue banking services without any hassle. For this, customers can take their KYC document and go to the home branch or their nearest branch.

Due to Corona, we have extended this facility till 31 May. After this, the accounts of the account holders whose KYC will not be updated will be frozen, SBI added.

How to do KYC updates from home

For those who do not want to go to the bank due to the corona pandemic, can do so via spost or email. Customers can send their documents related to KYC without visiting the bank. In such a situation, when the KYC is updated, the customers will be notified by sending a message on the phone.
New Delhi: In view of the prevailing COVID situation in the country, the government has extended Insurance scheme for frontline health workers for another six months.

This was decided on last Friday (May 30), after Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a meeting to review the functioning of different empowered groups through video conference.

A statement said Modi has also asked officials to explore how volunteers from civil society can be utilised to lessen the pressure on healthcare sector by being drafted in non-specialised tasks, as the government looks to further step up its response to fighting COVID-19.

In a tweet, Modi said, "Chaired a meeting during which the working of the various empowered groups was reviewed. These empowered groups are looking into various aspects of COVID relief and helping people."

Chaired a meeting during which the working of the various empowered groups was reviewed. These empowered groups are looking into various aspects of COVID relief and helping people. https://t.co/5aWpwRbOEy  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 30, 2021

Under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package, the launch of Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package: Insurance Scheme for Health Workers Fighting COVID-19 was announced last year.

It provided an insurance cover of Rs. 50 lakh for ninety (90) days to a total of around 22.12 lakh public healthcare providers, including community health workers, who may have to be in direct contact and care of COVID-19 patients and who may be at risk of being impacted by this. It will also include accidental loss of life on account of contracting COVID-19.

The insurance provided under this scheme would be over and above any other insurance cover being availed of by the beneficiary, the government had noted.

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Washington: NASA`s Space X Crew-1 astronauts truly deserve a big hand as after surviving 167 days in space, the longest duration mission for a U.S. spacecraft since the final Skylab mission in 1974, Dragon and the Crew-1 astronauts returned safely to Earth on Sunday (May 2) morning!

SpaceX`s Crew Dragon, carrying NASA astronauts Michael Hopkins, Victor Glover, and Shannon Walker, and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency astronaut Soichi Noguchi, splashed down safely to Earth in a parachute-assisted splashdown at 2:56 a.m. EDT off the coast of Panama City, Florida.

Crews aboard SpaceX recovery vessels successfully recovered the spacecraft and astronauts. After returning to shore, the astronauts will fly back to Houston.

"Welcome home Victor, Michael, Shannon, and Soichi, and congratulations to the teams at NASA and SpaceX who worked so hard to ensure their safe and successful splashdown," said Sen. Bill Nelson, who was confirmed by the Senate to serve as NASA Administrator on April 29.

"We`ve accomplished another incredible spaceflight for America and our commercial and international partners. Safe, reliable transportation to the International Space Station is exactly the vision that NASA had when the agency embarked on the commercial crew program," Nelson added.

NASA`s SpaceX Crew-1 mission launched November 15, 2020, on a Falcon 9 rocket from the agency`s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

The astronauts named the spacecraft Resilience, in honor of their families, colleagues, and fellow citizens and highlighting the dedication displayed by the teams involved with the mission and demonstrating that there is no limit to what humans can achieve when they work together.

Crew Dragon Resilience docked to the Harmony module`s forward port of the space station November 16, nearly 27 hours after liftoff.

Overall, Hopkins, Glover, Walker, and Noguchi travelled 71,242,199 statute miles during their 168 days in orbit (with 167 days aboard the space station), completing 2,688 orbits around Earth.

With splashdown, the crew also broke the American crewed spacecraft mission duration record of 84 days, 1 hour, 15 minutes, set by the final Skylab crew in February 1974.

Crew-1 also is the first night splashdown of a U.S. crewed spacecraft since Apollo 8`s predawn return in the Pacific Ocean on Dec. 27, 1968, with NASA astronauts Frank Borman, Jim Lovell and Bill Anders.

Throughout their mission, the Crew-1 astronauts contributed to scientific investigations and technology demonstrations, in addition to spacewalks and public engagement events, while aboard the orbiting laboratory.

From studying protein crystal development to advance new drug discoveries to demonstrating robotic assistant technologies, their work advances the exploration of the universe while bringing benefits back to Earth.

They also grew crops in both the Advanced Plant Habitat and Veggie plant growth facilities and conducted tests of a new method for producing semiconductor crystals.

The astronauts contributed hundreds of pictures of Earth as part of the Crew Earth Observation investigation, one of the longest-running investigations aboard the space station, which contributes to tracking natural disasters and changes to our home planet.

The crew also tested a new tape dispenser, designed and produced by students as part of the High Schools United with NASA to Create Hardware (HUNCH), during the mission.

In early 2021, the Crew-1 astronauts had significant roles to play in five spacewalks outside the orbiting laboratory. Glover completed his first four spacewalks, including three alongside Hopkins, whose total number of spacewalks is now five.

Noguchi joined NASA`s Kate Rubins on the fourth spacewalk of each of their careers.

During the spacewalks, the astronauts connected cables on the recently installed Bartolomeo science platform, prepared the station for upcoming solar array upgrades, serviced the station`s cooling system, and completed other station maintenance tasks.

On April 5, all four Crew-1 astronauts boarded Resilience for a port relocation maneuver, moving their spacecraft from the forward-facing port to the space-facing port on the Harmony module.

The move allowed for the forward-facing port to receive four Crew-2 astronauts upon their arrival to the station on April 24. Later this year, SpaceX`s 22nd Commercial Resupply Services mission is scheduled to dock at the newly vacant zenith port, bringing with it the first pair of new solar arrays.

The Crew-1 flight is part of NASA`s Commercial Crew Program, which has worked with the U.S. aerospace industry to launch astronauts on American rockets and spacecraft from American soil to the space station.

The second splashdown of the Commercial Crew Program comes just over one week after the launch of NASA`s SpaceX Crew-2 mission, the second long-duration mission. The Crew-2 astronauts launched on April 23 and will live and work aboard the station until their return to Earth in about six months.

Resilience will return to SpaceX`s Dragon Lair in Florida for inspection and processing.

There, teams will examine the spacecraft`s data and performance throughout the flight.

The next NASA and SpaceX crewed mission is Crew-3, currently targeted for launch no earlier than October 23.Crew-2 astronauts are scheduled to return to Earth on October 31, about a week after welcoming their Crew-3 colleagues to the orbiting outpost.

The goal of NASA`s Commercial Crew Program is safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation to and from the International Space Station.

This has already been proven to provide additional research time and increase the opportunity for discovery aboard humanity`s testbed for exploration, including helping us prepare for human exploration of the Moon and Mars.

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After Samsung, Apple is eyeing to launch its first foldable iPhone, if reports are to be believed. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has put out some details on the same.

As per Ming-Chi Kuo (via MacRumors), the first foldable iPhone is scheduled to launch in 2023 and this information is based on an industry survey and its shipments will be almost around 15 to 20 million units.

Besides that, there is also information available on the features and specs of the foldable iPhone as it is expected to have an 8-inch screen and come with a WQD+ flexible OLED display with a Samsung Display.

Also, it is expected to have a silver nanowire touch solution for the screen and future foldable devices that can have multiple folds, rollable, medium to large size display, and durability.

If other rumours are to be believed, then it should be called the iPhone Flip, which will come with a clamshell design, which is similar to Samsung Galaxy Z Flip.

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San Francisco: Apple is reportedly preparing to launch a new HiFi Apple Music tier in the "coming weeks," which will come alongside the release of the rumoured third-generation AirPods, the media reported.

According to MacRumors, citing sources, the new tier, which will offer high-fidelity music streaming, will cost the same $9.99 monthly subscription as the current individual tier.

The report said that an announcement of the new Apple Music tier and the launch of the third-generation "AirPods" will take place in the "coming weeks."

Apple plans to hold its Worldwide Developers Conference on June 7 and while no hardware was announced at the conference last year, hardware announcements are possible at the software-focused event.

The third-generation "AirPods" are expected to feature a design that's similar to the design language of the AirPods Pro but lacks certain "Pro" features such as Active Noise Cancellation.

If the rumour is to be accurate, the new "AirPods" release comes on the backdrop of a report signalling that Apple is cutting back on AirPods production due to decreasing sales, the report said.

Swedish music streaming service Spotify has recently announced that its users will be able to upgrade their sound quality to Spotify HiFi and listen to their favourite songs in later 2021.
New Delhi: Just two drops of lemon into the nose can increase oxygen saturation level in the body and prevent you from the COVID-19 infection - a viral video making this claim is being circulated on social media. However, the government tagged the 'lemon therapy' video as 'fake' and dismissed the report stating that there is no scientific proof that the coronavirus can be eliminated with this process.

The person in the video is seen claiming that the 'lemon therapy' can not only boost immunity in a person but also save them from the lethal coronavirus. He advised people to put two drops of lemon juice in their nostrils and claims that by doing this, all the main organs including eye, ear, nose and heart would be purified in just five seconds. "This will also provide relief to those who are facing all cold and cough illnesses," the man claims in the video.

Lemon therapy doesn't boost immunity or prevent COVID-19 infection

The official Twitter handle of PIB Fact Check released a statement saying, "A video is being shared on social media which claims that putting just 2 drops of lemon juice in the nose will kill Coronavirus immediately. #PIBFactCheck: - The claim made in the video is # fake. There is no scientific evidence that # Covid19 can be eliminated by adding lemon juice to the nose."

Homoeopathy medicine Aspidosperma Q 20 cannot be used as a substitute if Oxygen level falls

A few days back, the Ministry of Ayush dismissed claims that homoeopathy medicine Aspidosperma Q 20 can be taken as a substitute if oxygen levels fall. The ministry warned people not to self-medicate in critical condition while iterating that "a case requiring oxygen rehabilitation or medicinal support is solely dependent upon the discretion of the treating physician."

A viral social media post had claimed that homoeopathy medicine Aspidosperma Q 20 can be taken as a substitute when oxygen levels fall. The post written in Hindi says, "If the oxygen level is falling, then don't wait for oxygen to be found. By giving ASPIDOSPERMA Q 20 drops in a cup of water, the oxygen level will be maintained immediately, which will always remain balanced. This is homoeopathic medicine. Don't waste your time searching for oxygen. Share it faster because you never know someone's life will be saved."

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Karen Ngunjiri Liang is a trained Aeronautical Engineer who never practiced, but found her niche in fiction writing. She has authored 2 novels and says the third is in the works.

Karen grabbed headlines a few years ago for marrying a Chinese man, who thought Ngai'(Kikuyu for God) was a curse worse.

She shared her story with the KenyanVibe.

Your Facebook posts are hilarious, was your childhood that interesting?

Mine was that of a regular Kenyan child. I think there are a lot of interesting things we experienced growing up in this country.

What is it like being married to someone from a different culture?

Its very interesting. There was this day my husband went to the village and was treated to those very lengthy Kikuyu prayers; you know those ones that are led by your grandmas friend and she prays for everyone and everything including the vehicle which you will be travelling in which is made with human hands. Its usually so touching.

So anyway hubby is there obviously floating through the Kikuyu prayers but he does get the word Ngai being used repeatedly. Now he hears people use that word all the time and has always assumed its a curse word, you know like how people say oh s*** because lets face it thats how we use it. So the guy is in utter shock, surprised that people would use such a word in prayer.

But perhaps what shocked him the most is the fact that somewhere in the midst of the long prayers an elderly woman who was visiting fell asleep! As in homegirl just went to sleep and started snoring loudly! Man, there is nothing like seeing your country through someone elses eyes.

Haha! Thats hilarious. What is the most enjoyable aspect of the same?

Getting to experience life through another persons world view

You are an engineer by training, where did your interest in writing novels come from?

Writing comes naturally to me. Its my way of relaxing. So, if I have 20 minutes to spare over a lunch break, then Ill be writing something. I refer to myself as a chaotic writer since I have a tendency of writing in the midst of noise. It is from everyday life that I receive the inspiration for characters for my different novels.

I can remember writing stories as far back as when I was 10 years old. As a teenager, I would fill kasuku exercise books with fiction stories but it wasnt until 2 years ago that I decided to start packaging my stories into publishable manuscripts. Im on my 3rd book now.

10 years old, wow! Knowing what you know now about innate gifts how would you raise your children differently?

Unlike the times we grew up in, there are numerous programs now that one can enroll their child for, programs that focus on sharpening specific gifts. My parents encouraged me as much as they could to explore my gifts.

I will definitely be on the lookout for any strong interests or natural talents that my children exhibit and explore different programs I can enroll them in so that they become proficient in the same from a tender age.

Your first book, Diary of a Clueless Farmer is quite an interesting read. Whats the inspiration behind it?

Im a country girl. Growing up in Naromoru, Nyeri Country, life was quiet, serene and even-paced for the most part. Having attended a University in China and now living in Nairobi, writing this book felt like the perfect escape. I get tired of city life from time to time. Combining my childhood experiences, passion and creative fiction writing saw the birth of this book.

How do you juggle between all your responsibilities; wife, mum, career woman and author?

To be honest, Im still figuring it out. There are days that like, I got this! Then there are days I wonder, Im I doing it right? Is this how its supposed to be done? Having a supportive spouse and family helps me deal with these responsibilities better.

What else excites you?

Travelling, knitting, and trying out DIY stuff

In your opinion, what is the secret to getting ahead?

Walking with God and allowing him to show you your unique path because if you find what God truly wired you for, you will desist from competing with others.

If you were to do one thing differently as far as your past is concerned, what would it be?

I would not date as a campus student. That was such a waste of my time. I agree with Benjamin Zulu, there is a right time to get into relationships and early 20s is not it.

In your opinion, how can the youngsters in this generation package their gifts in a way that brings them monetary returns?

I believe we are living in the best of days for creatives because its easier now for one to follow their passion. There are numerous channels of output in our dispensation, learning how to monetize the same might require sharpening of skills and learning from others how to create that conversion.

What do you think of this trend; posting sensual images in the name of socialiting with the hope of creating a career as a social media influencer?

The problem with that it has no longevity. Soon, there will be a younger girl on the scene, prettier, curvier and all. You will end up losing yourself in the process of trying to remain relevant
New Delhi: Calling India a UK's one of the most important partners, the United Kingdom's high commissioner to India Alex Ellis has said that this is a moment to transform the relationship between the two countries.

While speaking to Zee Media, Ellis also talked about the British assistance to India as it battles the COVID-19 pandemic. He said that the UK has worked with the utmost urgency and speed to support friends in India.

He also pointed to the incredible level of support from the wider British public and industry.

On April 27, the UK became the first country to send assistance to New Delhi amid the second wave of coronavirus.

Zee Media: The UK was the first country to send assistance to India to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic. A lot of solidarity was seen in the UK for India, from the top leadership as well as the people. If you can give some detail on the assistance?

Alex Ellis: Across Government, the UK has worked with the utmost urgency and speed to support our friends in India, to help relieve the phenomenal pressure the countrys healthcare system is under. The Prime Minister himself made a pledge to do all we can to help. The UK has announced the delivery of vital medical equipment to assist India in its fight against Covid-19. This includes: 1,200 ventilators, 495 oxygen concentrators, and 3 oxygen generation units. The first shipment arrived early on 27 April, and that equipment is already being distributed to Indian hospitals. There have been further shipments this week, and more still to come. I am also delighted to see the incredible level of support from the wider British public and industry. From His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales to the diaspora and student communities, everyone is doing their bit to help. Businesses have also mobilized and are working directly with the Indian High Commission in London. The British Asian Trust, for example, has raised over 1.25 million through their emergency appeal. The Living Bridge we share is truly amazing.

Zee Media: How helpful do you see your assistance will be for India?

Alex Ellis: As the Prime Minister has said, We stand side-by-side with India as a friend and partner during what is a deeply concerning time in the fight against COVID-19. Our health secretaries, foreign ministers, and a range of experts from various fields are in regular contact. And we will continue working closely with the Government of India to identify the right kind of assistance we can provide. Oxygen is obviously one of the main needs at this time, which is why we announced further support with the 3 oxygen generation units. These oxygen units are the size of shipping containers - each capable of producing 500 litres of oxygen per minute, enough for 50 people to use at a time.

Zee Media: What kind of COVID-19 assistance can be expected between the two, especially on coronavirus vaccines?

Alex Ellis: The importance of our collaboration on researching, developing, and manufacturing a Covid vaccine cannot be understated. The Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine was developed with unprecedented speed and made available at cost to Serum Institute of India, the worlds largest vaccine manufacturer. This is already a scientific achievement of historic proportions. The UK is Indias biggest European research partner, and 2nd biggest globally, with 400 million joint investment in research and innovation collaboration since 2008. Over 20% of UK Research and Innovations partnership with India is health and wellbeing focused. Through the WHO, the UK is providing technical assistance to bolster the Integrated Health Information Platforms in 20 Indian states; through the International Finance Corporation, we are supporting the establishment a Covid-19 diagnostic network covering 70 million people in Madhya Pradesh. We also have regular channels of communication between scientists and health policy experts in the UK and India on the genomic sequencing of virus variants, informing both sides understanding of how the virus behaves and how it can be treated.

Zee Media: How will you characterize the relationship between India and the UK. The post-Brexit UK, with indo-pacific tilt and how vital New Delhi is for London?

Alex Ellis: India is one of our most important partners. There is a high degree of convergence between the UKs Integrated Review and Indias priorities for a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific, anchored by democratic values. As we embark on an intensive period of international leadership  the UK as Presidency of the G7 and COP26, and India on the UN Security Council, as BRICS President and G20 President in 2023  this is a moment to transform our relationship, address challenges to our security in both the physical and digital worlds, respond to the economic and health impacts of Covid-19 and lay the foundations for a secure and prosperous decade ahead.

Zee Media: Boris Johnson is very keen to visit India but the visit got postponed due to the COVID-19 crisis. When can he be expected now?

Alex Ellis: The Prime Minister remains keen to return to India as soon as he is able but obviously paramount at this time for both Governments is ensuring the safety and wellbeing of our people. Both our Prime Ministers remain committed to setting out the next decade of the UK-India success story and we expect to see these conversations taking place very soon.
London: The United Kingdom on Sunday (May 2, 2021) announced that the country will be sending additional 1,000 ventilators from its surplus supply to India as part of its commitment to support India's fight against the second wave of COVID-19.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said, India's fight against increasing coronavirus cases will be reinforced by the new UK government support announcement of additional ventilators in addition to 200 ventilators, 495 oxygen concentrators and three oxygen generation units the UK sent to India last week.

"The terrible images we have seen in India in recent weeks are all the more powerful because of the close and enduring connection between the people of the UK and India," PM Johnson added.

The UK Prime Minister also emphasized upon the increasing support by the UK citizens for the Indian people. "I am deeply moved by the surge of support the British people have provided to the people of India and am pleased the UK Government has been able to play our part in providing life-saving assistance. The UK will always be there for India in its time of need," he said.

Meanwhile, Chief Medical Officer Chris Whitty and Chief Scientific Adviser Patrick Vallance also connected with their Indian counterparts to discuss strategy, share advice and extend a helping hand towards the Indian healthcare system.

Under its initiative to help India in its fight against COVID-19, NHS England has also established a clinical advisory group which will work with renowned Indian institutions including AIIMS by sharing their experience on COVID-19 management.

"This support will help urgently meet some of Indias acute needs, particularly oxygen for patients. We are determined to help our Indian friends in their hour of need. We need to all work together to defeat COVID-19. No one is safe until we are all safe," said Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab.

On the other hand, Johnson will hold a virtual summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday. The Summit will be an important opportunity to elevate multi-faceted strategic ties and enhance cooperation on regional and global issues of mutual interest. Both leaders will also discuss COVID-19 cooperation and the global efforts to fight the pandemic.

(With Agency inputs)

Live TV
Kenya Airways chief executive officer Allan Kilavuka fields questions from the public via Sunday Nation.

When the government describes KQ as a strategic national asset, what does this mean given that the airline is not wholly-owned by the public? Githuku Mungai, Nairobi

Strategic national assets are those that the countries consider critical to social-economic development. For example, in the US, digital infrastructure was categorised as a strategic national asset by the Obama administration even though it is owned by the private sector.

Airlines make a significant contribution to a countrys economic development. Dubai for instance owes a lot of its vibrant growth to the connectivity offered by their airline. KQ did not start being strategic for Kenya when it went into financial problems.

Kenyas main foreign exchange earners are diaspora remittances, horticultural export, and tourism. Horticultural produce is exported by air, mainly to Europe, and meat to the Middle East. In addition, Nairobi houses Africa headquarters of many regional organisations and is the home of key UN agencies. Kenya Airways accounts for about 60 percent of the JKIA operations. This network enables the flow of tourism and trade in Kenya and Africa, bringing in much-needed foreign exchange.

Overall, the International Air Transport Association estimates that the direct and indirect impact of KQ on Kenyas GDP is about three percent or approximately $2.6 billion per year. Its direct contribution to Kenyas tax revenues in 2019 alone was over Sh9 billion.

Why should KQ which makes huge losses continue to get State bailouts? Also, why are KQ ticket prices costlier than other airlines? Carey Yiembe, Mombasa

Prior to the pandemic last year, we did not have a bloated staff. Indeed, the company has not returned a profit for several years but last year was completely beyond us due to the effects of the pandemic.

With Covid-19 and travel restrictions across the globe, the airline has had to restructure its fleet size, destinations, and staff to remain a viable and sustainable business in the future. The financial relief sought by Kenya Airways in addition to the various cost-saving measures and new initiatives by the company will lay the foundation for a balanced recovery and gradual return to profitability.

The South African government committed $1.26 billion towards a business rescue plan for its national carrier, South African Airways; Egypt has committed a loan of $191 million for the long-term financing of its airline, and Ivory Coast gave a grant of $24 million to its national carrier, Air Cote dIvoire.

On ticket pricing, various considerations come into play when determining pricing, including demand and supply. Airlines typically take price leadership out of their home markets where their product is strongest. Conversely, a competitor will price lower when coming into our market to attract passengers. Non-stop direct flights to a destination will typically attract a premium than competing options where customers will fly through other airports.

What keeps you going and optimistic at this company despite the numerous challenges? Komen Moris, Eldoret

I live by four principles which I call my 4 Fs: Faith, family, friends, and fun. Faith in God and in people, and supportive family, genuine friends and simply having a good laugh. The best things in life are for free.

On the company front, Kenya Airways has some of the smartest and best-trained people. Kenya in particular, and Africans in general, have heavily invested in Kenya Airways and it is our responsibility to try and not betray this investment.

What impact has Kenya Airways expensive aircraft acquisition models have on the airline? Isaiah O. Olweny, aviation stakeholder

Unfortunately, this is a narrative that has been repeated so many times by different people possibly because of lack of understanding or in an effort to try and explain the poor financial performance of the airline. Aircraft acquisition is typically achieved in two ways; Direct purchases from the manufactures like Boeing, Airbus, and Embraer if the airline is adequately funded, or arranged through a financier (usually a consortium of banks because of the amounts involved).

When you finance aircraft purchases, the financer would typically create a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) to own the aircraft. In both cases, the aircraft price is determined by the manufacturer and negotiated downward based on the airlines customer rating with the entity, order size, and market price at that specific moment. Like any other commodity, aircraft prices are affected by supply and demand fluctuations. Airlines will define the acquisition method based on factors like availability in the market, the airlines timeline for introduction and the companys financial position.

By having the aircraft within an SPV, it ensures that the aircraft will remain the asset or security of the issuing banks and they will be able to take it back and place it elsewhere (another airline). These are norms within the aviation and maritime industry.

Dont you think it is better if KQ is disbanded? Loreh Peter

Disbanding Kenya Airways will have to be weighed against the benefits that it brings. I understand the frustration and impatience that many Kenyans have because of our past performance. However, not having a national carrier of whatever nature for Kenya would be detrimental to the economy. All our neighbours are currently setting up airlines. Although I do not agree with that approach, I think they are sending a message on the importance of air transport if you want to build your hub and support the economy.

Recently, KQ reconfigured some of its passenger Boeing 777 planes to cargo aircraft as a measure to recoup losses. How sustainable is this? David Murugu, Nakuru

Let me first clarify that the re-purposed aircraft is the B787 Dreamliner. The re-purposing of our two Dreamliners to preighters allows us to utilise our aircraft to carry cargo at a time when passenger travel is significantly depressed. The alternative would have been that these aircraft would be completely underutilised.

Overall, cargo contribution to the business has greatly improved. It is important to note that even with the two re-purposed freighters, demand for air cargo freighters across the continent remains high.

The introduction of direct flights to New York by Kenya Airways appears to have been a blunder. Please comment. David Murugu, Nakuru

A new long-haul operation is an investment that takes typically two to three years to break even. Based on a robust market study and compelling need for a non-stop flight, KQ decided to invest in this route. Performance in the first year was in line with expectations. We carried more than 100,000 passengers with a 75 percent cabin factor. We also boosted our hub (JKIA) by attracting traffic to Nigeria, Uganda, South Africa, Tanzania, and Congo, which further helped strengthen the performance of our regional flights. We also expanded our partnership with Delta Airlines, creating a bigger catchment market in the domestic US and signed several significant deals with key corporate customers such as UN for both passengers and cargo.

Overall, customer feedback has been very positive, and we have also benefited from increased visibility and brand value. We had expected our investments to pay off in the second year of operations before Covid-19 pandemic hit. Indications are that post-pandemic, the US market will recover fast, with customers preferring non-stop flights.

When will KQ shares be reinstated at the Nairobi Stock Exchange? Ann Njoki Njunge, Limuru

The National Aviation Management Bill 2020 is now before Parliament. We foresee that the trading of shares of KQ will continue to be suspended at the Nairobi and Dar Securities Exchanges until Parliament completes its process.

Why should Kenya Airways and Kenya Airports Authority be merged? Will the small shareholders at KQ lose or be forced to sell their shares? Njoroge Waweru, Kikuyu
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Two Auburn University students, Che Ka and Grant Wilkinson, have been awarded 2021 National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowships, or NSFGRFa fellowship program designed to help ensure the vitality and diversity of the scientific and engineering workforce in the United States.

Each fellowship consists of three years of support accessible over a five-year period. For each year, the NSF provides a stipend of $34,000 to the fellow and a cost-of-education allowance of $12,000 to the degree-granting institution.

We are especially happy to see a continuation of Auburn students being awarded this prestigious fellowship, said Tiffany Sippial, director of Auburns Honors College. The NSFGRF recognizes student potential for significant achievements in science and engineering research, and these awards are a perfect fit for the work being done at Auburn University.

Ka, of Auburn, Alabama, is a biological sciences doctoral student in the College of Sciences and Mathematics. He moved to Auburn from Senegal, Africa, at age 14. His research aims to better understand mechanisms that cells use to orchestrate their activities during animal embryonic development and help reveal how these mechanisms are tweaked through evolution to give rise to the diversity of animal forms we see today.

This major fellowship from the NSF not only supports my research at Auburn, but also bolsters my efforts to increase science communication and share our work with the broader community, Ka said.

Wilkinson, of Chelsea, Alabama, is a spring 2021 Honors College graduate with a double major in chemistry and physics in the College of Sciences and Mathematics. His research focused on the photophysical properties of lanthanide and actinide coordination complexes. He hopes to develop sensors for uranium to be detected in environments suspected of contamination.

I strongly encourage anyone interested in graduate research to apply [for NSFGRF], because it prepares you like few other things can, said Wilkinson, who served as the spring 2021 graduation marshal for the College of Sciences and Mathematics.

Alex Sauer, coordinator for scholarships and research for the Honors College, added, This is a truly transformative opportunity for students who are starting careers in research, and we are so happy that Auburn students are continuing to be recognized for their amazing work.

We are also so grateful for the time and effort that advisors, mentors and recommenders have dedicated to supporting these students. Nationally competitive awards are never won solely by any one individuals efforts.

The NSFGRF program recognizes and supports outstanding graduate students in NSF-supported STEMscience, technology, engineering and mathematicsdisciplines who are pursuing research-based masters and doctoral degrees at accredited U.S. institutions.

More information is available at www.nsfgrfp.org or by contacting Sauer at ras0046@auburn.edu.
Andhra Pradesh government has ordered a 14-day partial curfew in the state from May 5 onwards. This order comes a day after Andhra Pradesh recorded 23,920 fresh COVID-19 cases. This was the first time that the state had recorded more than 20,000 new coronavirus cases in a 24-hour period since the beginning of the pandemic.

Andhra Pradesh will be under a strict night curfew from 10 pm to 5 am for the next few days in order to curb the spread of the coronavirus.

Shops in Andhra Pradesh will remain open for only six hours a day. This will be from 6 am to 12 pm, as per the state government's order. However, essential services will be exempted from the partial lockdown. During the 14-day partial lockdown, Section 144 will be in effect daily from 6 am to 12 pm meaning that congregations of more than five members would not be allowed in the state during these timings.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy announced the decision to impose the 14-day partial lockdown at a high-level review meeting on the COVID-19 situation in the state.

Meanwhile, India reported 3,68,147 fresh cases of COVID-19 in the last 24 hours, as per the Union Health Ministry update issued on Monday morning. The country reported 3,415 COVID-19 related fatalities taking the overall death toll to 2,18,959. The country also recorded 3,00,732 recoveries in the same period.

The country's total COVID-19 cases load is now on the verge of crossing the 2 crore mark. India currently has over 34 lakh active COVID-19 cases.

Andhra Pradesh reported 23,920 fresh cases of COVID-19 and 83 deaths in the last 24 hours. The state also recorded 11,411 recoveries in the last 24 hours.

Also Read: 'Incorrect': HealthMin on reports alleging Centre has not placed fresh order for COVID-19 vaccines

Also read: 2nd Covid wave closing in on rural India, impact visible in high-frequency indicators: CRISIL
Reeling under a huge shortage of medical oxygen, the national capital of Delhi has got its first Covid care centre with its own oxygen plant at the Commonwealth Games village. The oxygen plant has a capacity to produce about 1,500 litres of oxygen. All beds at the Covid care centre have a direct connectivity with the plant, which makes it easier to supply oxygen to patients.

The oxygen equipment has been brought from abroad by the association Doctors for You. Delhi, like many other cities, has been grappling with shortage of oxygen and insufficient beds as Covid-19 cases continue to rise at an unprecedented pace. Some hospitals in Delhi on Sunday even sent an SOS call to authorities about their dwindling oxygen stocks and another one even asked the authorities to shift its Covid-infected patients due to the lack of facilities.

Madhukar Rainbow Children's Hospital in Malviya Nagar on Sunday sounded an alarm, saying 50 people were at "risk", including newborns, as their stock dried out. Another hospital, Batra Hospital, in Delhi that faced an oxygen shortage for about 80 minutes on Saturday saw 12 Covid-19 patients, including a senior doctor dying due to shortage of oxygen.

Just two weeks before, 20 coronavirus patients had died at Jaipur Golden Hospital and 25 patients at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital due to the shortage of oxygen. The situation is no different in many other hospitals of the national capital. Delhi has been receiving about 490 MT medical oxygen from the Centre against the Kejriwal government's demand of 976 metric tonnes oxygen. The government had received only 312 MT oxygen on Friday.

Delhi reported 20,394 new Covid-19 cases and 407 fatalities as coronavirus continues to rage in the national capital. Around 24,444 patients were discharged from hospitals during the day. Sunday's number of deaths is the second highest after 412 deaths reported on Saturday, which was the highest ever deaths due to Covid-19 in Delhi. The metro city's active cases tally now stands at 92,290. Total cases stand at 11.9 lakh and deaths at 16,966.

Also read: Centre, state govts should consider lockdowns, ban super spreader events: SC

Also read: COVID-19: SC asks Centre to consider fixing ceiling price for drugs
Amidst the rising COVID-19 cases in the country, the Centre on Monday postponed NEET-PG exam for four months and allowed medical interns to be deployed in Covid management duties under the supervision of their faculty.

"A decision was taken to postpone NEET-PG for at least 4 months and the exam will not be held before 31st August 2021. Students will also be given atleast one month of time after announcement of exam before it is conducted. This will make a large number of qualified doctors available for Covid duties," the government said in a release.

Besides, it allowed utilising services of final year PG students (broad as well as super-specialities) as residents until fresh batches of PG students join. "It was also decided to allow deployment of medical interns in Covid Management duties under the supervision of their faculty, as part of the internship rotation."

Also read: 2nd Covid wave closing in on rural India, impact visible in high-frequency indicators: CRISIL

In order to further augment the manpower to find the pandemic, the government said services of final year MBBS students can be utilised for providing services like tele-consultation and monitoring of mild Covid cases after due orientation by and under supervision of faculty. "This will reduce the workload on existing doctors engaged in Covid duty and provide boost to efforts of triaging."

It was also decided to allow B.Sc./GNM (General Nursing and Midwifery) qualified nurses for full-time Covid nursing duties under the supervision of senior doctors and nurses.

To further incentivise individuals to provide their services for Covid management, it was decided that such individuals will be given priority in forthcoming regular government recruitments after they complete minimum of 100 days of Covid duty. Besides, all such professionals who sign up for minimum 100 days of Covid duty and complete it successfully will also be given the Prime Minister's Distinguished Covid National Service Samman.

"The medical students/professionals sought to be engaged in Covid related work will be suitably vaccinated. All health professionals thus engaged will be covered under the insurance scheme of government for health workers engaged in fighting COVID-19," the government said.

Also read: Pfizer to send COVID-19 treatment drugs worth $70 mn to India
Shares of Tata Motors declined over 3 per cent in early trade today after the company posted a 41 percent decline in domestic sales at 39,530 vehicles for April as against 66,609 vehicles in March 2021.

Total sales in the domestic and international market for April 2021 stood at 41,858 vehicles, the company said.

Total Commercial Vehicle sales stood at 16,644 units, down 59 per cent against 40,609 units sold in March 2021. Medium and heavy commercial vehicle (M&HCV) sales declined 55 percent month-on-month (MoM) to 4,942 units. Small commercial vehicle (SCV) cargo and pickup segment sales dropped 60 percent, MoM, to 6,930 units.

The total domestic sales declined 61 per cent to 14,435 vehicles. The company had sold 36,955 units in March 2021.

Total Passenger Vehicle sales stood at 25,095 units, down 15 per cent against 29,654 units sold in the previous month.

Recently, the company has announced that Mr. Martin Uhlarik has been appointed as the new Global Design Head of the company. Mr. Uhlarik was till recently Head of Design for Tata Motors European Technical Centre (TMETC) and takes over his new role from Mr. Pratap Bose who has chosen to pursue opportunities outside the company.

At 10:17 hours, Tata Motros share was quoting at Rs 292.55, down 0.48 per cent on the BSE. On a year-to-date basis, the stock has gained around 59 per cent, against a gain of 5 per cent in the Nifty Auto index.
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India's fuel sales drop in April on local restrictions to curb second wave of COVID-19

According to the preliminary data of state-owned fuel retailers, the second wave of coronavirus sweeping the nation has pummelled fuel sales in April as local restrictions clamped to curb the spread of infection stifled demand. At the end of April, overall fuel demand is down by about 7 per cent from pre-Covid level of April 2019.

COVID-19 vaccination: Centre says 122 cr doses needed to inoculate 59 cr people in 18-45 age group

A total of 122 crore doses of COVID-19 vaccines would be required to vaccinate the population of 59 crore in 18-45 years age group, the Centre has said. Taking note of the surge in COVID-19 cases, the Supreme Court on April 22 said it expected the Centre to come out with a "national plan" to deal with distribution of essential services and supplies, including oxygen and drugs.

COVID-19: Could not predict exact nature of second wave, say scientists working on mathematical models

A group of scientists, mathematicians and experts, formed by the government last year to forecast surge in COVID-19 cases, said it could not predict the exact trajectory of the devastating second wave as the virus dynamics and its transmissibility changed substantially over time. The group is working on mathematical models to forecast the surge in cases.

Ola to take its electric scooter to international market this fiscal

Ola Electric is looking at taking its electric scooter to international markets, including countries like France, Italy and Germany, this fiscal, a top company executive said. The company, which is working on setting up a "Hypercharger Network" for its electric vehicle, is slated to launch its electric scooter in India in July this year.

India Inc's foreign borrowings rise 24% to $9.23 billion in Mar: RBI data

India Inc's external commercial borrowings jumped by over 24 per cent to $9.23 billion in March this year, RBI data showed. Indian firms had raised $7.44 billion from the foreign market in the same period a year ago.

Govt may ask final-year MBBS students to join Covid duty, delay NEET amid crisis

The Centre may ask medical students, including final-year students of MBBS, to help India battle coronavirus crisis, as per government sources, amid a shortage of healthcare personnel as India battles the second wave of Covid-19. According to sources, steps to incentivise students and pass-outs of medical and nursing courses to join the Covid-19 duty were taken in a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday.

COVID-19: SC asks Centre to consider fixing ceiling price for drugs used for treatment

The Supreme Court on Sunday asked the Centre to consider fixing ceiling price for drugs like Favipiravir, Tociluzumab, among others, used for treatment of COVID-19 patients as they are being sold at exorbitant rates. The court said the Centre can consider invoking its statutory powers under the Drugs Price Control Order, 2013 which allows the government to fix a ceiling price or retail price of a drug for a certain period in extraordinary circumstances.
Highlights Rockley Photonics has listed Apple as one of its few large customers.

The company manufactures sensors that can monitor a person's blood using infrared light.

The firm has a "supply and development agreement" with Apple.

Apple might have a big feature lined up for the future iterations of the Apple Watch. As per a recent SEC filing, it seems that upcoming models of Apple Watch will have glucose monitoring capabilities on them.

The regulatory documents have been filed by a UK-based startup called Rockley Photonics, as spotted by Telegraph. The company designs sensors that can monitor a person's blood using infrared light. The specialised sensors can monitor elements that are normally monitored using medical or specialised equipment.

The company recently revealed its financial standings as it plans to go public in New York soon. As per the filings, it has Apple listed as one of its "few large customers." Interestingly, the company claims that it earned 100 per cent of its revenue in 2020 from its two largest customers. However, it is not sure if Apple is one of them or not.

The listing, however, does point out an imminent detail that Apple is indeed a client of the UK firm. This directly points to the possibility that Apple is using the sensors by Rockley Photonics for one of its products, which is most likely to be the Apple Watch.

As per the listing, Rockley Photonics has a "supply and development agreement" with Apple. Apart from such deals, the company generates revenue from engineering fees for development work on future products.

Rockley CEO Andrew Rickman said that the technology developed by the company would possibly be in consumer products by 2022. However, he did not clarify if this would be an Apple product.

The dots connect if you look at the long-held speculation that Apple will bring glucose monitoring capability to Apple Watches. The company has reportedly been involved in patent applications for components, like the sensors by Rockley, that could monitor glucose levels through the skin. Such a method would eliminate the need of drawing the user's blood every time to monitor glucose level.

To think of it, that is the only natural progression for the smart wearable by Apple. Since Apple Watch already comes with an electrical heart rate sensor as its most hailed feature, the company is poised to double down on such non-invasive medical analysis for its wearable.
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South Africa: Home Affairs takes down tents at Paint City, Wingfield

The Department of Home Affairs has taken down the tents at the temporary shelters in Paint City and Wingfield, Cape Town.

This comes after the department and its partners engaged the protestors living at the shelters.

On Monday, 26 April 2021, the protestors were given a final notice to take the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) offer to assist them to reintegrate into local communities or to voluntarily repatriate to their countries of origin.

Immigration and UNHCR officials have been based at the Proteaville Centre in Bellville, where immigration officials are assisting to verify the status of some foreign nationals who may have lost or misplaced their documents, and those who are undocumented.

Some of these people need these documents to satisfy the requirements as stipulated by the UNHCR for voluntary repatriation back to their countries of origin and for reintegration, the Department of Home Affairs said in a statement.

Over the course of the week, the majority of protestors in both facilities came forward, indicating their willingness to either reintegrate or voluntarily repatriate.

Around 400 protesters from Wingfield and another 120 from Paint City communicated their preferences [last] week.

Law enforcement authorities have opted to allow immigration and UNHCR officials time to complete their work and not disrupt them by moving in at the moment, the department said.

The tents were taken down last Friday.  SAnews.gov.za

This story has been published on: 2021-05-03. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
NASA astronauts Shannon Walker, left, Victor Glover, Mike Hopkins, and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Soichi Noguchi, right are seen inside the SpaceX Crew Dragon Resilience spacecraft onboard the SpaceX GO Navigator recovery ship shortly after landing in the Gulf of Mexico off the coast of Panama City, Florida, at 2:56 a.m. EDT May 2, 2021. Credits: NASA/Bill Ingalls

Four astronauts splashed down safely in the Gulf of Mexico Sunday, completing NASA's first commercial crew, long-duration mission aboard the International Space Station.

The return comes nearly six months after the crew members arrived at the microgravity laboratory and also marks the longest-duration mission of a crewed American spacecraft to date.

SpaceX's Crew Dragon, carrying NASA astronauts Michael Hopkins, Victor Glover, and Shannon Walker, and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency astronaut Soichi Noguchi, returned to Earth in a parachute-assisted splashdown at 2:56 a.m. EDT off the coast of Panama City, Florida. Crews aboard SpaceX recovery vessels successfully recovered the spacecraft and astronauts. After returning to shore, the astronauts will fly back to Houston.

"Welcome home Victor, Michael, Shannon, and Soichi, and congratulations to the teams at NASA and SpaceX who worked so hard to ensure their safe and successful splashdown," said Sen. Bill Nelson, who was confirmed by the Senate to serve as NASA Administrator on April 29. "We've accomplished another incredible spaceflight for America and our commercial and international partners. Safe, reliable transportation to the International Space Station is exactly the vision that NASA had when the agency embarked on the commercial crew program."

NASA's SpaceX Crew-1 mission launched Nov. 15, 2020, on a Falcon 9 rocket from the agency's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The astronauts named the spacecraft Resilience, in honor of their families, colleagues, and fellow citizens and highlighting the dedication displayed by the teams involved with the mission and demonstrating that there is no limit to what humans can achieve when they work together. Crew Dragon Resilience docked to the Harmony module's forward port of the space station Nov. 16, nearly 27 hours after liftoff.

Overall, Hopkins, Glover, Walker, and Noguchi traveled 71,242,199 statute miles during their 168 days in orbit (with 167 days aboard the space station), completing 2,688 orbits around Earth. With splashdown, the crew also broke the American crewed spacecraft mission duration record of 84 days, 1 hour, 15 minutes, set by the final Skylab crew in February 1974.

Crew-1 also is the first night splashdown of a U.S. crewed spacecraft since Apollo 8's predawn return in the Pacific Ocean on Dec. 27, 1968, with NASA astronauts Frank Borman, Jim Lovell and Bill Anders.

Throughout their mission, the Crew-1 astronauts contributed to scientific investigations and technology demonstrations, in addition to spacewalks and public engagement events, while aboard the orbiting laboratory. From studying protein crystal development to advance new drug discoveries, to demonstrating robotic assistant technologies, their work advances exploration of the universe while bringing benefits back to Earth.

They also grew crops in both the Advanced Plant Habitat and Veggie plant growth facilities, and conducted tests of a new method for producing semiconductor crystals. The astronauts contributed hundreds of pictures of Earth as part of the Crew Earth Observation investigation, one of the longest-running investigations aboard the space station, which contributes to tracking of natural disasters and changes to our home planet. The crew also tested a new tape dispenser, designed and produced by students as part of the High Schools United with NASA to Create Hardware (HUNCH), during the mission.

In early 2021, the Crew-1 astronauts had significant roles to play in five spacewalks outside the orbiting laboratory. Glover completed his first four spacewalks, including three alongside Hopkins, whose total number of spacewalks is now five. Noguchi joined NASA's Kate Rubins on the fourth spacewalk of each of their careers. During the spacewalks, the astronauts connected cables on the recently installed Bartolomeo science platform, prepared the station for upcoming solar array upgrades, serviced the station's cooling system, and completed other station maintenance tasks.

On April 5, all four Crew-1 astronauts boarded Resilience for a port relocation maneuver, moving their spacecraft from the forward-facing port to the space-facing port on the Harmony module. The move allowed for the forward-facing port to receive four Crew-2 astronauts upon their arrival to the station April 24. Later this year, SpaceX's 22nd Commercial Resupply Services mission is scheduled to dock at the newly vacant zenith port, bringing with it the first pair of new solar arrays.

The Crew-1 flight is part of NASA's Commercial Crew Program, which has worked with the U.S. aerospace industry to launch astronauts on American rockets and spacecraft from American soil to the space station.

The second splashdown of the Commercial Crew Program comes just over one week after the launch of NASA's SpaceX Crew-2 mission, the second long-duration mission. The Crew-2 astronauts launched April 23 and will live and work aboard the station until their return to Earth in about six months.

Resilience will return to SpaceX's Dragon Lair in Florida for inspection and processing. There, teams will examine the spacecraft's data and performance throughout the flight. The next NASA and SpaceX crewed mission is Crew-3, currently targeted for launch no earlier than Oct. 23. Crew-2 astronauts are scheduled to return to Earth Oct. 31, about a week after welcoming their Crew-3 colleagues to the orbiting outpost.

The goal of NASA's Commercial Crew Program is safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation to and from the International Space Station. This has already been proven to provide additional research time and increase the opportunity for discovery aboard humanity's testbed for exploration, including helping us prepare for human exploration of the Moon and Mars.

Learn more about NASA's Commercial Crew program at: https://www.nasa.gov/commercialcrew



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Bupa Arabia for Cooperative Insurance has launched two new innovative health insurance solutions - Bupa Family and Bupa Helpers - designed specifically in accordance with the needs of Saudi families.

Additionally, the new products come in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to raise peoples average lifespan from 74 years to 80 years, and the Healthcare Transformation Strategy led by the Ministry of Health.

Atef Mufti, Chief Sales Officer at Bupa Arabia, said the launch of Bupa Family and Bupa Helpers for Saudi families and domestic workers in the kingdom comes as part of the company's efforts to meet the growing needs and expectations of its customers and offer them the best quality of health insurance services provided by more than 1,200 healthcare providers across the kingdom.

The new products have been designed to provide a wide range of healthcare insurance options that transcend regular medical coverage for our customers, their family members as well as their domestic workers, Mufti added.

The new products had the utmost support of the Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) during all stages of product development up to their launch, which helped us reach this satisfactory outcome.

Mufti said that ensuring the care and comfort of Bupa Arabia's customers and improving their experience has always been the company's No. 1 priority, and the new insurance products of Bupa Family and Bupa Helpers are an extension of the same strategy.

Bupa Family is composed of two main programs that offer a wide range of benefits and network options. Both "Family Shield" and "Executive" programs under Bupa Family are aimed at meeting the different needs of Saudi families, who will be able to select from five different categories of the best hospitals and clinics in the kingdom.

Additionally, Bupa Family customers will also have access to the Tebtom programme, providing them with a variety of healthcare services, including home vaccination for children, Bupa Doctor, telemedicine, among others, along with the Rahatkom programme, which is designed to make their hospital experience easier and less stressful.

Bupa Helpers completes the protection of Saudi families by protecting the health of their domestic helpers at affordable prices, providing peace of mind for all loved ones and meeting the needs of the entire household.

Bupa Arabia has been taking a number of steps toward digital transformation. Part of these efforts was the launch of an online health insurance purchase platform two years ago, making Bupa Arabia one of the first Saudi companies to provide this service in line with the Council of Cooperative Health Insurance (CCHI) standards.

The digital sales platform provides many of the companys products for quick and easy online purchase. It also enables the addition or removal of a beneficiary and submission of claims through the platform, all accomplished within seconds.-- TradeArabia News Service
Coinciding with Zayed Humanitarian Day, the Ministry of Community Development (MOCD) and Dubai Holding have completed major residential renovation worth AED10 million ($2.72 million) that has been implemented across a number of areas in Dubai.

The Masaai Al Khair initiative is aimed at supporting the maintenance and renovation of houses of social security beneficiaries and low-income families, especially elderly citizens and people of determination.

It focuses on enhancing community responsibility towards different members of the society while bringing together government authorities and the private sector to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in support of social security beneficiaries.

As part of the programme, around 38 homes have been fully renovated across Hatta and several other areas in Dubai. These homes have undergone different types of internal and external maintenance works.

Dubai Holding is responsible for the AED10 million financing of the project after Dubai Municipality carries out the necessary engineering and technical evaluation of each house to begin maintenance and required extensions.

Nasser Ismail, Assistant Undersecretary of Social Welfare at the MOCD, emphasized on the importance of such initiatives that emanate from a sense of social responsibility and enhance the collaboration between government authorities, the private sector, and other various related entities.

He also highlighted that Masaai Al Khair initiative achieves great social impact by providing the appropriate environment for those community members in need of support.

Khalid Al Malik, the Managing Director of Dubai Holding, said: "The Masaai Al Khair initiative serves as a leading example of the success of public-private partnerships focused on promoting social responsibility in the community and highlighting the significant contribution collaboration can deliver towards helping build a sustainable future for our nation."

"At Dubai Holding, we are committed to supporting and leading initiatives aimed at enriching the lives of community members, and we take pride in playing a role in fostering happiness and well-being in Dubai and beyond For the Good of Tomorrow," he added.-TradeArabia News Service
Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZA) has announced the establishment of a state-of-the-art production facility in Umm Alhoul Free Zone, built by a partnership between iLife Digital, a leading intelligent robotics and electronics company based in Florida, US, and Prime Technologies, a subsidiary of Ali Bin Ali Holding.

iLife and Prime Technologies will use the 2,500-sq-m factory to create innovative iLife-branded electronic devices, including laptops, PCs, smart watches and mobile phones, among others. The new space will help meet the growing demand for affordable electronic projects in the Mena region, and is the latest of many partnerships QFZs have orchestrated with the private sector.

Production at the factory is expected to begin in August 2021 and will produce up to 350,000 electronics devices a year. In addition to the production of electronics, the factory will support logistics and R&D activities and feature a customer solution centre.

Ahmad Al-Sayed, Minister of State and Chairman of QFZA, said: We are proud to host this partnership between iLife Digital and Prime Technologies at Umm Alhoul Free Zone. It is the latest example of our close collaboration with the Qatari private sector to foster growth and innovation for the country and the broader region. This partnership is also testament to the strategic place of Qatar and its free zones in global trade, and the exciting potential of technology manufacturing in Qatar. This factory will play an important role in our growing technology ecosystem and drive our continued support for Qatars technology and innovation sector.

Speaking about the new venture, Vice-Chairman & EVP of Ali Bin Ali Holding Nabeel Ali Bin Ali said: Our Group has always been known for pioneering efforts and supporting innovations to get the best for the people of Qatar. The new facility, with its state-of-the-art production and R&D facility along with a logistics and customer solutions center, is a reiteration of such efforts. The project also reflects our support for Qatars 2030 vision of self-reliance and contributes to the Made in Qatar initiative. It is a perfect platform for young Qatari scientists to research, innovate and develop AI tools and robots. We are happy to be a part of the Qatar Free Zones and this strategic partnership will help us make Qatar more prominent on the global trade map.

This new venture will bring additional benefits to Qatar. The factory, the first of its kind in Qatar, will create 160 new jobs, including 144 skilled opportunities, and customers across the Mena region will benefit from a local technology powerhouse. Qatar Free Zones technology ecosystem will allow iLife Digital and Prime Technologies to enhance their own operations and develop cutting-edge yet affordable products for the Mena region. The strategic location of Umm Alhoul Free Zone will facilitate the trade integration of these products across the MENA region, and offer consumers a valuable local alternative to products made further afield.

The partnership between iLife Digital and Prime Technologies will support Qatars National Vision 2030 aimed at creating a knowledge-based economy and promoting economic diversification. It will expand the skilled labor pool of Qatar, support the development of its logistical infrastructure and bring added value to the Qatari economy.

Qatar is in the midst of rapid digital growth across all industries, including as part of preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2022  the worlds biggest global sporting event. These new partnerships in the technology industry foster an attractive market for foreign corporations, SMEs and start-ups geared towards innovation solutions.  TradeArabia News Service
The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (Added) recently signed an agreement with Silal, Abu Dhabis new fresh food and agritech company, to promote local agricultural products in the emirate.

The agreement aims to achieve Abu Dhabi Local Content Programme objectives, particularly those pertaining to the strategies of enhancing food supply chains, a WAM report said. It also supports freelancers and micro and small enterprises to diversify the emirates GDP and create job opportunities for citizens in the private sector.

Rashed Abdul Karim Al Balooshi, Under-Secretary of Added, and Jamal Salem Al Dhaheri, CEO of Silal, signed the agreement virtually, in the presence of officials from both parties.

Al Balooshi emphasised Addeds ambition to achieve sustainable economic development and elevate the business sector and economic affairs in Abu Dhabi. This is done by providing distinctive services to investors and business sectors across Abu Dhabi to carry out their economic activities.

He added: "The Department is Abu Dhabis competent authority to apply the Local Content Programme mechanisms for government and semi-government entities, contributing to the emirates GDP growth, encourage Emiratisation in the private sector and promote a knowledge-based economy.

Al Dhaheri reiterated Silals determination to improve the quality of services in the agricultural sector and activate cooperation with government and semi-government entities, as well as relevant stakeholders in the emirate. He also praised Addeds key role in facilitating procedures and implementing progressive initiatives for private sector companies, which empowers the private sector and boosts Abu Dhabis local economy.

Al Dhaheri said: "The signing of this agreement comes as part of the companys strategic partnership with Added to identify key areas of cooperation in managing and maintaining the emirates food reserves. We will implement the Abu Dhabi Local Content Programme to increase local food demand, support local food producers, and strengthen domestic agricultural crop supply chains."

Under this agreement, both parties will devise proposals for regulations and laws, and launch programmers and initiatives to support local farmers in the emirate, boosting Abu Dhabis self-sufficiency in key products. This will be achieved through Silals adoption and compliance with the Local Content Programme and Government Procurements Supporting Abu Dhabis Golden List project to implement supporting strategic projects.

Joint programmes, action plans and objectives will be arranged by both parties, and a work team will be assigned to follow up on the mechanisms and procedures of implementing the agreement.-- TradeArabia News Service
Bosch has announced the availability of its most innovative open camera platform in the UAE  the Bosch MIC Inteox 7100i.

It is the first camera based on Boschs Inteox open camera platform, equipped to deliver robust housing and high-quality imaging, and support predictive solutions with machine learning, neural network-based video analytics, and third-party software apps for customized applications.

Inteox, a first fully open camera platform launched last year is designed to modernise the security and safety industry across the globe.

MIC Inteox 7100i cameras support predictive solutions with built-in Artificial Intelligence (AI). It includes Intelligent Video Analytics, Camera Trainer based on machine learning, and video analytics based on deep neural networks (DNN).

These built-in AI capabilities enable Inteox cameras to understand what they see and add sense and structure to captured video data with metadata. This process is an important first step in converting video data into actionable insights and building predictive solutions, helping users anticipate unforeseen events and prevent them from happening.

For example, in city surveillance applications, the MIC Inteox 7100i cameras can detect abnormalities in behaviours, provide density data, and alert traffic operators with insights they can act on to prevent unwanted situations.

By adding third-party software apps to Inteox cameras, integrators can easily customise security systems, enabling them to go beyond their basic functionality. In turn, app developers can leverage the camera's metadata, neural network-based video analytics, and machine learning to introduce innovative software to the market.

The MIC Inteox 7100i object classification (OC) models are made specifically for Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) applications. Powered by the edge computation capabilities of the Inteox platform, the introductory OC models present a novelty in the field of AI.

They offer a Traffic Detector, an additional Video Analytics feature based on DNN that helps distinguish and classify automobiles in congested scenes with precise detail. Possible disturbances caused by vehicle headlights or shadows are ignored, uncovering new ways to improve mobility, safety, and efficient use of roadways.

The actionable insights delivered by the cameras Traffic Detector help detect the presence and volume of vehicles to intelligently control traffic lights to keep traffic flowing when monitoring intersections.

These insights can also enhance Automatic Incident Detection (AID) solutions to improve the safety of people and vehicles in tunnels and on highways. Future OC models planned for June 2021 will expand upon these DNN-based features offering greater granularity of data when generating actionable insights for various traffic applications.

MIC Inteox cameras range from a 4K enhanced model featuring optical image stabilization to a 1080p model in a base or enhanced version featuring Boschs starlight technology that can capture color images down to a level of 0.0047 lux as standard.

The 4K model's optically stabilised images maintain pin-sharp pictures even when the camera is subject to severe vibration, such as on bridges. With the optional illuminator, the 4K model covers a distance of 300m (984 ft.). The 1080p models feature 30x zoom and frame rate of 60 frames per second. When light levels drop to zero, the optional illuminator ensures the greatest level of detail over a distance of up to 550m (1,804 ft.).

Enhanced versions for both 4K and 1080p models also include an in-window defroster to improve visibility and onboard storage capabilities. Combined with robust housing, the cameras provide the high-quality details required by applications such as city surveillance, traffic monitoring, and perimeter security.

Like all MIC cameras, the MIC Inteox 7100i features rugged housing with superior metallurgy and finish to protect against corrosion, including salt-water, to meet marine requirements. Engineered to endure nearly everything from high winds, rain, fog, and dust, MIC cameras can withstand 100% humidity, temperatures from -40C to +65C (-40F to +149F), extreme vibrations, and high impacts (IK10).

Whats more, a new drive train enables them to track slow-moving targets as smoothly as possible. The cameras are guaranteed never to lose their homing position, returning to a pre-set position over their entire lifetime, even when exposed to extreme vibration or brute force.

The range of Inteox cameras can be classified as Driven by OSSA. This distinction signifies that the cameras follow the Open Security & Safety Alliance (OSSA) Technology Stack for video security devices, ensuring seamless connectivity with the Security & Safety Things (S&ST) Application Store. The cameras also allow for the easy creation of customized software apps that can be deployed on the Inteox cameras afterward. Market players can mix and match apps from the S&ST Application Store (subject to regional availability) or develop software apps to create a novel solution.

Early adopters can take advantage of Bosch Inteox development kits to complement the MIC Inteox 7100i cameras in pilot installations. The kits contain either a Bosch fixed bullet (Dinion) or mini-dome (Flexidome) outdoor camera that will run on the S&ST operating system. Both kits support the testing and development of an overall system solution based on apps already available through the application store and self-developed apps. -- TradeArabia News Service
Emirates and the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) have begun to implement full digital verification of Covid-19 medical records connected to testing and vaccination for travellers based in the UAE.

Emirates customers who have undertaken a PCR test in Dubai can choose to check-in without presenting their physical Covid-19 PCR test report. Moreover, customers who have received their Covid-19 vaccination at a DHA health centre in Dubai can, together with their Covid-19 PCR test results, have their documents synchronised during flight check-in. The new streamlined verification procedures will enable secure and faster processing times for customers departing from Dubai International Airport. The information will then be matched-up with the entry requirements of the destination.

Emirates will only process the relevant information specifically related to the Covid-19 entry requirements of the customer's destination. Once check-in formalities are completed, information related to Covid-19 medical records will be immediately discarded from the Emirates systems.

The integration comes less than two months after the signing of the MoU between Emirates and the Dubai Health Authority, and is a first-of-its-kind agreement between an airline and a government health authority. The integration also makes Dubai one of the first cities in the world to implement full digital verification of traveller medical records related to Covid-19 testing and vaccination.

Adel Al Redha, Chief Operating Officer for Emirates Airline, said: "The UAE government has been very supportive and is one of the leading countries in the use of technology and digital applications. This initiative is in line with the government's vision and we are delighted to take this step within the aviation sector to cooperate with DHA in linking our systems together to enhance the customer experience by processing the relevant documents in a more efficient, secure and effective manner. Our partnership with the Dubai Health Authority in managing passenger travel is unique and is a first step towards other initiatives that will be launched in the near future. This is a testament to Dubai's progressive approach in delivering innovative digital solutions across all aspects of services."

Ahmed Al Nuaimi, CEO of Joint Corporate Support Services at the DHA, said: "The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) has been strongly foraying into paperless healthcare over the past few years to enhance patient convenience and further improve healthcare delivery. Since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, we have deployed and fostered the use of digital healthcare. The strategic foresight into investing in digital healthcare has paved the way today for such a pioneering integration. This partnership will directly help streamline and make travel easy and convenient as well as ensure validation of all necessary Covid-19 medical records."

Kleitham Ali Al Shamsi, Director of IT at the Dubai Health Authority highlighted that DHA's strategic investment and focus on healthcare technology has significant benefits not only in the health sector but also in the travel sector: "This partnership reinforces that technology has the potential to securely, conveniently and effectively assist airlines to receive the verified Covid-19 test results and vaccination records. From the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, DHA has worked tirelessly to connect all the laboratories that process Covid-19 test results in Dubai into DHA's Outbreak Management system, this integration has been instrumental today to help develop such a unique integration with Emirates Airline."

Emirates' collaboration with the Dubai Health Authority is another way to provide customers with a streamlined experience and meet current travel requirements, making travel safe and convenient. Emirates is one of the airlines that has introduced best business practices and applications to reenergize and stimulate international travel. In the coming months, the next phase of digital verification will see secure integration of health records within the IATA Travel Pass as another option to help facilitate travel for passengers.

Customers who have done PCR testing or vaccinations outside of Dubai will be required to physically provide their travel documents at check-in. Some destination countries require travellers to carry physical documents when travelling. Customers are encouraged to check the latest entry requirements for their destination by visiting: www.emirates.com/help/covid-19/travel-requirements-by-destination/ - TradeArabia News Service
Umrahme, a leading online travel agency for business and consumer travel packages for Umrah, has digitally transformed travel experiences for millions of Muslim religious pilgrims, thanks to real-time solutions from Salesforce, the global leader in CRM.

Aligned with Saudi Arabias government-led Saudi Vision 2030 goals and the Smart Hajj initiative, the kingdom expects to host a record-high 30 million pilgrims by 2030.

Supporting innovation in pilgrimages, since 2017, Umrahme, part of Traveazy Group, has been a leading online travel agency for business and consumer travel packages. Umrah is a religious undertaking similar to the Hajj pilgrimage, but Umrah is shorter and can be done any time of the year.

Managing bookings for millions of pilgrims from more than 40 countries worldwide relies on multiple touchpoints and third-party vendors. Umrahme needed highly responsive service teams, fast access to information, and a unified journey across the whole company.

Before the pandemic, Umrahme handled more than 7 million bookings per month, with Salesforce solutions helping to grow its market share from 25 per cent to 80 per cent in only a matter of months. Umrahmes customer satisfaction score is also an impressive 90 per cent.

To prepare for exponential growth of pilgrims, Umrahme needed to replace manual processes with greater automation and find smarter ways of running the business, said Bechir Omran, Head of Growth, Holidayme. With Salesforce, we can help more agencies manage travel and accommodation bookings for their customers as they complete their pilgrimage to Mecca.

Thanks to its digital transformation with Salesforce and channel partner Smaartt Digital Consulting, Umrahme has gained 360-degree visibility across the customer travel journey.

Umrahme has simplified bookings with joined up processes and greater efficiency, and now has a single dashboard that supports around-the-clock customer services. Preparing reports, which used to take hours to collect and analyse the data, is now done in real-time.

The pandemic accelerated digital transformation for everybody, but Salesforce made it seamless for Umrahme to onboard new members of the team remotely, added Bechir Omran. The user-friendly interface meant our staff needed minimal training to use the platform.

Umrahme has adopted Salesforce solutions including Sales Cloud, Service Cloud, Pardot for B2B marketing automation, and Tableau for data visualization reports. AppExchange apps are also integrating both telephony and real-time chat features. With Umrahmes abandoned cart feature, the companys sales teams can follow-up with prospects to complete the transactions.

Umrahme has mastered the perfect blend of optimisation and preserving traditions for millions of Muslims across the world, with its digital transformation, said Thierry Nicault, Area Vice President  Middle East and North Africa, Salesforce. We are enabling Umrahme to give customers world-class and seamless experiences, along with a single source truth for real-time data reporting.

In the next phase of its digital transformation, Umrahme is looking to deploy Datorama for artificial intelligence-powered marketing intelligence, Einstein for artificial intelligence in marketing, and Social Studio for social media marketing. - TradeArabia News Service
Air Arabia, the Middle East and North Africas first and largest low-cost carrier, has announced the resumption of direct flights between Sharjah and Almaty, Kazakhstan, starting May 21.

The route will be operated three times a week, on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday, using an Airbus A320.

Customers can now book their direct flights between Sharjah and Almaty by visiting Air Arabias website, by calling the call centre or through travel agencies.

Ensuring the highest standards of safety at every step of the journey by following all health and safety protocols, Air Arabia has also added to the convenience and confidence of passengers by introducing free Covid-19 insurance coverage. The insurance is automatically included as part of the booking and no additional documents are required from passengers. - TradeArabia News Service
Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts has announced the addition of Marc Speichert to its executive leadership team in the role of Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer.

Marc is an outstanding marketer and strategic business builder  a digital innovator with a global outlook who understands the evolving needs of the luxury consumer, said John Davison, President and Chief Executive Officer, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. His experience and vision will be fundamental to the path forward for Four Seasons, driving continued customer growth, revenue and brand recognition.

Speichert joins Four Seasons in this newly created role at a critical time in the hospitality industry. He will oversee the development and execution of the companys integrated commercial strategy with a mandate that includes the identification of new products and markets; revenue growth across the company; brand marketing, global public relations and social media; data analytics, market insights and customer engagement; the brands extensive digital ecosystem; and global distribution and worldwide reservations.

Marcs global experience and marketing acumen are matched by his reputation as an inspiring leader, with a collaborative style that extends through his work and to those he works with. His appreciation for Four Seasons people, culture and values further strengthens our executive team as we continue to extend Four Seasons leadership position worldwide, added Davison.

In collaboration with other members of the executive leadership team, Speichert will be involved in all touchpoints of the Four Seasons guest experience, from the brands hotels and resorts, restaurants, bars and spas, to the growing Four Seasons residential portfolio and product extensions including the Four Seasons Private Jet and online retail program, as well as digital engagement through social media and the Four Seasons App.

Commenting on his new role, Speichert said: Four Seasons leadership legacy is undisputed in the luxury space. This is a company that continually embraces new opportunities, while remaining focused on its core business principles and unwavering in its commitment to excellence. The opportunity to play a role in the growth of this iconic luxury brand is tremendously exciting. There is unlimited potential ahead and I look forward to collaborating with Four Seasons teams around the world to continue elevating the guest experience and deepening the connection with those who know and love Four Seasons.

Prior to joining Four Seasons, Speichert was Global Chief Digital Officer at GSK Consumer Healthcare for four years, where he led the digital transformation of its marketing functions, and more recently added supply chain, research and development, and the companys broader marketing transformation to his scope of work.

Previously, Speichert was a senior executive at Google on its global clients and agency solutions team, partnering with major global brands including Estee Lauder, Johnson & Johnson, Pepsi, Microsoft and Apple. Prior to Google, he was the first Chief Marketing Officer at LOreal, spearheading the brands digital strategy to global recognition as a leader among packaged goods companies. He began his marketing career with a progressive 12-year tenure at Colgate-Palmolive.

Speichert currently serves as Chairman of MMA Globals Chief Digital Officer Board (CDO Board), helping member organisations re-think the ever-evolving needs of consumers and customers in an increasingly digital world. He also sits on the advisory board of Glasswing Ventures, a VC fund focused on funding entrepreneurs harnessing the power of AI and frontier technologies.

Speichert will initially be based in London, England with plans to relocate to Four Seasons offices in New York City. - TradeArabia News Service
He said that the first batch of 350,000 doses will arrive on May 7, while the remaining 350,000 doses will arrive on May 8.

"Peru is going to receive 700,000 doses per week, that is to say, 3.5 times more than what it has been receiving, and this will allow us to further expand the vaccination coverage," the minister stated.

"We have increased our capacity in terms of the number of vaccination brigades we can deploy. We can intensify the work and, therefore, vaccinate a greater number of people per hour and day," he emphasized.

Sinopharm









"This guarantees the protection that we are precisely looking for and, as the Minister (of Health) has announced, half a million doses are entering the country, thus guaranteeing they will help protect the population that has not been vaccinated yet," he noted.
Despite statements by Israel's Ministry of Tourism on the opening of inbound tourism, the International Mediterranean Tourism Market 2021 (IMTM) will be pushed from June to October as most exhibitors from around the world are not allowed to enter Israel.

Eyal Shmueli, one of the initiators of the exhibition, said: "The State of Israel has partially and limitedly opened its gates to inbound tourism, while most of the countries participating in the fair do not meet the conditions of the Ministry of Health. Out of 50 countries that were supposed to attend the IMTM International Tourism Exhibition, only a few will be able to enter, so we are forced to postpone the exhibition until the end of October. The virtual exhibition currently taking place will continue until October 17."

The IMTM has been moved from June 15-16 to October 26-27. Towards this date, it is expected that the number of vaccinated abroad will be significantly higher and it will open up the possibility of bringing a significant number of visitors, tourists and exhibitors to Israel.

Furthermore, the virtual exhibition will still be active until October 17.

The exhibition is organised by Artra Ltd. and Israel Travel News, in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism and sponsored by the Israel Hotels Association, the Chamber of Inbound Tourism Organizers, the Tel Aviv-Jaffa Tourism Association, and the Israel Travel Agents Association. The exhibition is intended for all those involved in the various tourism industries - domestic tourism, inbound tourism as well as countries and tourism factors from abroad. - TradeArabia News Service
The Head of State said that the Transition and Emergency Government stated that the vaccine will become available to all elderly people.

"1,108,055 people have already received the first dose, while 626,672 have gotten the second dose. We vaccinated 110,791 people on April 30, which has been a record high, and the vaccination continues to progress at a higher pace than expected," the President pointed out.





"The new vaccination program has been a great success these days," he added.
YEREVAN, MAY 3, ARMENPRESS. Turkeys direct and large-scale involvement in the recent war against Artsakh aimed at implementing its expansionist policy in the region, Armenias Ambassador to Iran Artashes Tumanyan said in an interview to ISNA news agency.

After all these, one thing is clear: the attempt to solving the conflicts by use of force must be a serious signal for the international community and first of all for the countries of the region, the Ambassador said, adding that the ceasefire stopped Azerbaijans military aggression, which was carried out by Turkeys support and involvement of mercenary terrorists, and which caused huge losses to Armenian and its people.

As for overcoming the crisis, the Ambassador stated that according to the Armenian side, the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chair countries exclusively have an international mandate for the final and comprehensive settlement of the conflict, which have come up with a proposal over the conflict settlement principles on the sidelines of the negotiation process.

As for the role of the regional countries, Mr. Tumanyan said these countries can form a favorable environment for the conflict settlement with their balanced position.

Asked whether Iran, as an important regional country, can play a positive role in the conflict settlement, the Armenian Ambassador noted that the Armenia-Iran border has always been a bridge of peace and cooperation, adding that any encroachment against it opposes the national security of the two countries.

I would like to specifically highlight Irans key role during the war and after that, in terms of its principled stance against developments that threatened regional peace and stability. It relates to the steps (warnings, deployment of Iranian troops along the border) taken towards the inviolability of the common border and sovereignty of the two countries. The Armenia-Iran border has always been a bridge of peace and cooperation, and any encroachment against it contradicts to the national security of the two countries. After the recent war, there has been formed an understanding of common threats and interests both in Yerevan and Tehran. Therefore, a comprehensive strategic dialogue is necessary, the agenda of which will include both the entire complex of the bilateral mutually beneficial cooperation issues and a broad range of issues relating to the regional security and stability, the Armenian Ambassador said.

According to him, today as well Irans active participation to the solution of multiple complex and problematic issues would be highly useful. In particular, he said it would be desirable to see Irans active influence on the authorities of Azerbaijan in the release of the Armenian prisoners of war. He also noted that currently its important to further intensify all components of Armenia-Iran relations which ensure the security and economic development of the two countries. In particular, he said, its important to strengthen the North-South transportation and energy corridor, deepen the cooperation in gas and energy fields, boost the trade turnover and the joint investment programs.

Editing and Translating by Aneta Harutyunyan
YEREVAN, MAY 3, ARMENPRESS. President of Artsakh Arayik Harutyunyan says hes been questioned by law enforcement agencies.

The president said he was questioned as a witness by detectives of the Artsakhs prosecution as part of an ongoing criminal case launched under Article 312  Overthrowing Constitutional Order.

Given the importance of this case, I said everything I know over the questions that were asked to me and I reiterated my readiness to participate in the proceedings as required by law in the future, he said.

President Harutyunyan added that he will present answers to some questions to the public given the public demand on revealing the circumstances of the 2020 war.

Editing and Translating by Stepan Kocharyan
YEREVAN, MAY 3, ARMENPRESS. The Armenian brand DANZ entered the US market in February this year, where the demand for Armenian-made glasses is increasing ever faster. Before that, DANZ was consumed in Armenia and Russia. The brand is also present on all major global eCommerce platforms. The total export volume of the company has increased by 40% in April compared to February.

At DANZ the entire process of manufacturing eyewear frames is fully implemented in Armenia since 2017. The company is the first manufacturer of its kind in the region. DANZ has created more than 30 jobs and continues to expand its team, with the main emphasis on product quality.

Compared to United States, where shopping is mostly done online, the main customers of DANZ in Russia are wholesale buyers, where the company will soon open stores in major shopping centers. Both countries are strategic markets for the company.

The success of the brand and the positive reaction of the international market is due to the brand-product-price ratio, where DANZ is hard to beat. The brand is presented in the fast fashion market. We recommend DANZ not because it is Armenian made, but because of its high quality, style and affordability, said the company's Commercial Director Armen A. Avakian.

Our designers constantly follow global trends and now, when DANZ has already launched its Spring/Summer collection, our consumers can choose a product that is modern and fashionable. Besides fashion, sunglasses are essential to maintaining eye health. We prioritize it and ensure our customers that we adhere to international standards throughout the entire production process. As a doctor, I am twice as demanding in this matter, noted the CEO of DANZ Harutyun Hulunyan.
YEREVAN, MAY 3, ARMENPRESS. The extraordinary session of parliament kicked off for the first round of voting to elect a prime minister. Lawmakers are expected to vote down caretaker prime minister Nikol Pashinyan, who is re-nominated by the ruling My Step bloc, a formality required to pave way for the dissolution of parliament.

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan resigned on April 25  a move intended to pave way for snap election. The entire Cabinet also resigned. Holding early elections requires the dissolution of parliament, which in turn can happen when the legislature twice fails to elect a prime minister after the incumbent steps down. Pashinyan said during his resignation that his bloc will formally nominate and subsequently vote him down during both votings in order to maintain the technical requirements to disband the legislature.

The second and final round of vote takes place a week after the first one.

Editing and Translating by Stepan Kocharyan
YEREVAN, MAY 3, ARMENPRESS. Human Rights Defender of Armenia Arman Tatoyan has addressed a congratulatory message on the occasion of the World Press Freedom Day.

The message reads:

Congratulations all of us on World Press Freedom Day!

Having a free press is really an important achievement, and of course, an indicator of democracy.

The work of journalists must be free and protected, and the stereotypes should be broken by a professional work.

The role of free press is important in forming the states political priorities and the public opinion, and in that way guaranteeing civil control on the state.

Dear representatives of media outlets,

With your professional work you contribute to ensuring the transparency and public accountability of the work of public servants and officials.

You also play a major role in promoting dissent and atmosphere of solidarity in the country.

At this responsible period for our country, only the free and professional press can have an important mission in overcoming the problems.

Editing and Translating by Aneta Harutyunyan
YEREVAN, MAY 3, ARMENPRESS. Caretaker Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan calls on public figures, lawmakers to get vaccinated against COVID-19, showing the importance of the vaccination with his own example, adding that he and his wife have already been vaccinated.

I want to call on everyone to definitely get vaccinated. I also ask the members of the Parliament to be vaccinated as well and also spread that fact. Currently, there are global discussions and there is a great probability that there will travel restrictions starting from the second half of 2021 for those citizens who have not been vaccinated against coronavirus. This issue is being discussed now, whether a decision will be made or not, its difficult to say at this moment, but we need to be aware of it, he said in the Parliament.

He noted that Armenia has acquired large quantity of different vaccins. And now we have an opportunity to start large-scale vaccinations. Moreover, currently we are the stage of decline in cases, and if we organize the vaccination process correctly, we can overcome the pandemic in rapid rates, Pashinyan said.

He highlighted the fact that hotels, restaurants, companies operating in service field organize the vaccination process of their staffers.

Pashinyan urged not to give in to speculations over vaccines.

Vaccinations against COVID-19 started in Armenia from April 14. Armenia has been supplied with the Sputnik V, AstraZeneca and CoronaVac vaccines. Vaccinations are carried out on voluntary basis.

Editing and Translating by Aneta Harutyunyan
YEREVAN, APRIL 3, ARMENPRESS. Caretaker Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan says there are four factors which contributed to US President Joe Bidens recognition of the Armenian Genocide.

I believe there is one long-term, one mid-term and two short-term factors here, Pashinyan said in parliament when asked to comment. The long-term factor is definitely the consistent work of the Armenian-American community and all organizations of the Diaspora. The mid-term factor is Turkeys regional policy and in this context the dissonance which appeared between Turkey and the United States. First of the short-term factors is the 44-day war and Turkeys explicit and active involvement in it, and second is Armenia being a democratic country. In my conviction these are the four factors which led to the United States President making this unprecedented and historic decision, Pashinyan said.

United States President Joe Biden officially recognized the Armenian Genocide on April 24, 2021. He became the first ever US President to do so.

Editing and Translating by Stepan Kocharyan
YEREVAN, MAY 3, ARMENPRESS. Parliament voted down caretaker Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan in the first round of vote in order to trigger early elections.

Pashinyan, the only candidate in the voting nominated by the ruling My Step bloc  received 1 vote in favor, 3 against and 75 voted present.

Earlier the ruling bloc said theyd all vote present as agreed before.

The Prosperous Armenia BHK opposition party boycotted the special session and the voting.

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan resigned on April 25 to trigger the snap election of parliament. The entire Cabinet also resigned. Holding early elections requires the dissolution of parliament, which in turn can happen when the legislature twice fails to elect a prime minister after the incumbent steps down. Pashinyan said during his resignation that his bloc will formally nominate and subsequently vote him down during both votings in order to maintain the technical requirements to disband the legislature.

The second and final round of vote takes place a week after the first one.

Editing and Translating by Stepan Kocharyan
The Hotel Show, the MENA regions longest-running and most influential hospitality trade exhibition, has announced Poland as its Supporting Country Partner at the 2021 edition, running from May 31 to June 2 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

Set to strategically enhance business and trade relations between Poland and UAE at this crucial time for the hospitality industry, the partnership involves the support of the Polish Ministry of Economic Development, Labour and Technology, the Polish Chamber of Commerce and Pomorskie Voivodeship. Together, they will play a vital role in bringing the latest Polish products, services, technologies and leading hospitality suppliers to the UAE, to be showcased at The Hotel Show Dubais Polish Pavilion; an expansive space featuring Polish products supplied by exhibiting companies.

The Republic of Poland's Ministry of Economic Development, Labour, and Technology conducts a variety of activities aimed at improving enterprise competitiveness, promoting native products, and enhancing the image of the Polish economy around the world. The Polish economy was the fastest growing European economy over the last two decades.

Robert Tomanek, Undersecretary of State in the Ministry of Economic Development, Labour and Technology, said: "Participation at the Hotel Show Dubai 2021, amongst other important trade fairs in the UAE, is part of a wider economic program accompanying Polands participation at the World Expo 2020 later this year. Its main goal is to promote Polish companies and support them in strengthening their business relations with partners in the Middle East."

The Polish Chamber of Commerce, Poland's largest independent business association, brings together nearly 160 companies to assist entrepreneurs in their international market activities and promote Polish exports by organizing promotional activities abroad. These include; international fairs, economic missions & forums, dedicated events and B2B meetings hosted by local partners all over the world, including the GCC.

Marek Koczko, Vice President, Director General, Polish Chamber of Commerce added: "The Polish Chamber of Commerce has a long-standing partnership with the UAE, and we hope that these relations will intensify further given our participation at the Hotel Show Dubai and during the upcoming Expo 2020, in which we are also involved as a partner organisation."

The Polish Pavilion will also showcase Pomorskie Voivodeship, one of Europes fastest growing regions benefiting from its excellent talent pool as well as a diversified and specialised economy. Its centre, Tricity, was recently ranked in the top five for FDI strategy in the FDI Global Cities of the Future 2021/2022 rankings. The cities were rated for economic potential, business friendliness, human capital, lifestyle, connectivity and cost-effectiveness.

Participants from Poland include MK Business Link; a business management consultancy that prides itself on establishing professional relations between Europe and the Middle East through a mix of in-depth knowledge, understanding of both cultures, and extensive research into specific regions and business environments. The company will share the stand with the Polish Chamber of Commerce. As the official Polish representative of The Hotel Show Dubai, MK Business Link will provide significant opportunities for business exchange developments with the GCC.

Magorzata Panek-Kasinska, CEO of MK Business Link, commented: "We are very excited to recognise our inaugural partnership as one of the Strategic Partners with The Hotel Show Dubai. As one of the leading platforms bringing entrepreneurs together, we are immensely proud that more than 30 Polish companies will be represented at the Pavilion, showcasing high-quality Polish products."

For more than 20 years, The Hotel Show Dubai has been driving and inspiring change in the industry. The largest and most influential hospitality exhibition in the region is the essential meeting place for General Managers, Hoteliers, Interior Designers, F&B Managers, Front of House teams and Housekeepers looking to access products, information and inspiration. - TradeArabia News Service
YEREVAN, MAY 3, ARMENPRESS. Caretaker minister of economy Vahan Karobyan received today Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Armenia Bolat Imanbayev, the ministry told Armenpress.

During the meeting Mr. Kerobyan highlighted the dynamic development of the Armenian-Kazakh commercial cooperation and expressed confidence that the cooperation between the two countries has a great potential for development. The sides in particular outlined the following sectors for cooperation: trade, high-tech, production of solar power plants, jewelry production and agriculture.

Vahan Kerobyan raised logistical problems existing between the two countries, which obstructs the quick development process of the commercial ties.

In his turn the Ambassador stated that during the political consultations between Armenia and Kazakhstan both sides attached importance to the re-opening of Yerevan-Nur Sultan-Yerevan direct flights. In this context he proposed to consider creating a whole-sale logistics center in Armenia.

At the end of the meeting the officials agreed to contribute to the productive and active cooperation between Armenia and Kazakhstan within their powers.

Editing and Translating by Aneta Harutyunyan
YEREVAN, 3 MAY, ARMENPRESS. The Central Bank of Armenia informs Armenpress that today, 3 May, USD exchange rate down by 0.06 drams to 520.63 drams. EUR exchange rate down by 2.21 drams to 627.41 drams. Russian Ruble exchange rate down by 0.08 drams to 6.87 drams. GBP exchange rate down by 2.79 drams to 721.23 drams.

The Central Bank has set the following prices for precious metals.

Gold price up by 80.29 drams to 29588.06 drams. Silver price down by 6.92 drams to 433.11 drams. Platinum price up by 31.14 drams to 20387.67 drams.
YEREVAN, MAY 3, ARMENPRESS. A stable operational situation with no incidents has been maintained along the Armenian-Azerbaijani line of contact of the Armenian state border overnight May 2-3, the Defense Ministry of Armenia told ARMENPRESS.

According to the information provided by the Armenian National Security Service, no border incidents were registered in Vorotan-Davit Bek section of the Goris-Kapan inter-state road which is under the responsibility of the NSS border troops.

The Armed Forces of Armenia and the NSS border troops confidently control the border situation along the entire borderline.
YEREVAN, MAY 3, ARMENPRESS. Azerbaijan distorts Church of the Holy Savior Ghazanchetsots in the city of Artsakh's Shushi under the pretext of ''renovation works'', aiming to eliminate the Armenian presence and trace, ARMENPRESS reports Human Rights Defender of Artsakh Gegham Stepanyan wrote on his Facebook page.

''Azerbaijan cannot renovate the cultural heritage belonging to people against whom hatred had been sown for years at a state level. Under the pretext of the so-called renovation works the Azerbaijanis are distorting one of the most important Armenian religious monument - Church of the Holy Savior Ghazanchetsots of Shushi. We have witnessed in numerous cases how Azerbaijan treats to the Armenian cultural values and thats enough for understanding whats going on under the pretext of renovation works. The goal is eliminating the Armenian presence and trace, Gegham Stepanyan said.

He emphasized that for years Azerbaijan has led a policy of Albanizing the Armenian Christian culture in Artsakh or attributing to other nations  an act that has been criticised by historians and culture experts for the simple reason that those attempts are groundless from the perspective of both historical chronology and cultural-architectural features.

''If Azerbaijan is really concerned with the preservation of the cultural values and ''is renovating'' it, a major dilemma emerges. What's the reason for Azerbaijan not to allow the independent expert group of the UNESCO to visit the region? We voice about the vandalism against the Armenian culture by Azerbaijan every single day, informing the relevant international organizations about it'', Stepanyan wrote.

He added that nothing is done except for criticizing and making calls, but concrete measures are necessary. The Human Rights Defender of Artsakh noted that the main reason for such a behavior of Azerbaijan is impunity.
The six-year-old boy from the Gold Coast who was hospitalised after an incident involving a toy purchased from Sea World had died.

On April 25, Deklan Babington-MacDonald was playing with a stuffed penguin toy at his home in Nerang when he suffered a "severe accident".

The six-year-old was rushed to Queensland Children's Hospital, where doctors told his family he was "beyond recovery".

Deklan Babington-MacDonald tragically died in an incident involving a toy bought at Sea World. Source: My Cause

In an update on the My Cause fundraising page set up for Deklan's mother, it was confirmed his life support was turned off and he died on Friday.

"Deklan passed away on the 30th of April, at Queensland Childrens Hospital, surrounded by his closest family, extended family and some close friends of the family," the fundraiser confirmed.

"Please respect the families privacy and grief at this time. Any details of a memorial will be communicated when appropriate.

"They are reading the beautiful messages of support and love, and appreciate all the kindness and donations."

Toy pulled from Sea World shelves following incident

Following the news of Deklan's critical condition in hospital, Sea World pulled the toy he was playing with at the time of the incident from shelves.

Village Roadshow Theme Parks said in a statement to Yahoo News Australia the company was "distressed" to hear about Deklan.

"As our number one priority is always health and safety, we have removed the toy in question from sale at this time," the statement confirmed.

Village Roadshow Theme Parks said it would be cooperating with the investigation and reaching out to Deklan's family to offer support.

The six-year-old was playing with a stuffed penguin toy at his home before he was rushed to hospital. Source: My Cause

The spokesperson said there will be no further comment until "all the facts are known".

Few details are known as to how Deklan was injured, however family member Lea Williams told NCA Newswire the toy in question was a stuffed penguin wearing a harness attached to a lead.

The lead was stiff with a pole, which came out.

Story continues

It broke and turned into basically a long rope with a loop on the end," Ms Williams told NCA Newswire.

"In a very short amount of time Deklan became entangled."

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 Storeor Google Play.
Elishia and Bill Zimpfer nodded in agreement. We were committed to diversity in our truth tellers. Bill, Elishia, Christine and Sarah comprise the team that teaches English language and literature at the middle and high school. Elishia continued, As English teachers, we are used to discussing the truth in the literature we study together. We explore different cultures in a wide range of print and media and notice both the uniqueness of various voices and the commonality of human goals and aspirations. We know people have the power to change themselves and their world.

Bill Zimpfer, who is also the president of the Anne Frank Tree Project board, added, The New York State Board of Regents and the New York State Department of Education is in the process of drafting diversity and inclusion standards. Americans Who Tell the Truth puts us ahead of the game in these critical educational goals.

I had spoken with the artist Robert Shetterly by phone the day before my conversation with our teachers. He spoke about his intimate relationship with his art: Art allows me to communicate with myself. I paint an image; the image then speaks back to me, informs me of ideas and concerns beyond what I knew I had. The painting becomes a tangible fact in the world whose reality tells its own story. If it tells that story to me, Im confident it will speak to others.

All of us who have stood before these portraits have heard the stories and long to continue our conversation. Robert promoted the use of the website, americanswhotellthetruth.org, by students and the community. I have made many trips to the website and have been changed by meeting new Americans who share my goals and challenge me to engage more courageously with the environment, community and social justice. I cannot wait to talk to students about their reaction to Americans Who Tell the Truth. The conversation is just beginning, and the table has many places for those from the past, present and future who are committed to our country and our world.

Elaine Meyers, of King Ferry, is a member of the boards of the King Ferry Food Pantry, ABC Cayuga and the Southern Cayuga Anne Frank Tree Project, and a member of the Southern Cayuga Garden Club. She coordinates a literacy support program at Southern Cayuga Central School.

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"We welcomed the news that SSA has begun piloting different approaches for the public to show their original documents without having to mail them to the field office," Katko and his colleagues wrote in a letter to Social Security Commissioner Andrew Saul. "Drop boxes, express appointments, and online meetings all have the potential to remedy this hardship without undermining the integrity of a claim's processing procedure."

In the letter, Katko and the members of Congress acknowledged the advantages and disadvantages of the pilot programs. Online appointments may be an option in an urban area, they explained, but it might not be available in a rural area without internet access.

The letter also included four questions for Saul about the field offices and the evaluation of the pilot programs. One of the questions is if the agency plans to continue to the programs after the field offices open.

"During these unprecedented times, we have to create better workarounds," Katko said in a statement. "I'm urging the SSA to implement new and flexible approaches that allow central New Yorkers to process their claims and access vital services without having to part with their important documents."

Politics reporter Robert Harding can be reached at (315) 282-2220 or robert.harding@lee.net. Follow him on Twitter @robertharding.

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Kathryn Dennis was named the United Way of Cayuga County's new executive director on Monday.

According to a press release, Dennis is expected to start on May 10. Dennis is replacing the retiring Karen Macier, who served as executive director since July 2016.

Dennis had served as the director for the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. She has spent 11 years in this role serving in Rhode Island and Japan. She has extensive experience with nonprofits, volunteers and building community partnerships.

I am tremendously excited to join the United Way of Cayuga County Team, and to return home to Central New York," Dennis said in the release. "Its a bittersweet move as Ive had the honor and privilege to support our United States Navy and Marine Corps for the last ten years as Director of three Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society offices from Japan to Pearl Harbor.

We are excited to welcome Kathryn to the United Way and look forward to working with you as we embark upon our 100th year of serving Cayuga County, said Tom Ganey, board president, in the release.
Even as a young man, Bill was always a very spiritual person. We often kidded him that he was the spiritual director of our class, added Father Joseph Hart, pastor of Brightons Our Lady Queen of Peace/St. Thomas More parishes, who was ordained along with Father Darling in 1973. He made excellent use of his graduate work in spirituality at the Jesuit School of Theology at Berkeley to help seminarians at St. Bernards, people in need in the parishes in which he served and even himself as he struggled through the years with significant health concerns.
At a Buffalo appearance to encourage Covid-19 vaccinations on Thursday, a reporter asked Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo about his ability to govern and maneuver New York's political shoals amid continuing calls for his impeachment or resignation.

His answer was "not hypothetical," he replied, especially after just wrapping up a $212 billion state budget for 2021-22.

"Since that occurred," he said, referring to controversy over his handling of pandemic death data and accusations of sexual harassment, "look at what I have done. There is no greater test of the premise. If you're going to have trouble governing ... it would be in the budget.

"That was the litmus test of your question," he added.

Indeed, Cuomo commanded his usual position at the head of the negotiating table in early 2021 for what he called "the most complicated budget in modern history [with] the greatest state need ever." As he noted Thursday in his first in-person encounter with Buffalo reporters in months, passing a budget to guide the state through the next fiscal year remains his most important responsibility.
Eddy Travels has launched a new partnership with EButler, a leading concierge app in Qatar, integrating its AI assistant into EButler's mobile applications as the main travel search provider.

The new partnership aims to make the holiday planning experience seamless and easy for Qatar travellers as well as support Eddy Travels' expansion to the UAE market.

In a simple chat, the fully automated AI assistant is available 24/7 to help EButlers users search for the best airline and hotel deals globally.

Starting today, EButlers members can search for the best flight and hotel offers by chatting with Eddy Travels' AI travel assistant, which has been seamlessly integrated into Ebutler mobile apps.

At EButler, our goal is to create an incredibly convenient experience for our users every time they need something in their life. As we strive to raise the bar, we are always looking for world-class partnerships. We are extremely excited to partner with Eddy Travels, who offers a unique experience not found anywhere else in the world, said Omar Ashour, Co-Founder and CEO at EButler.

We are delighted to launch a groundbreaking partnership with EButler, the first one in Qatar for Eddy Travels. EButlers team did amazing work integrating the Eddy Travels AI assistant into their application. As a result, Qatari travellers can start planning their next well-deserved holidays by sending a message, said Edmundas Balcikonis, Co-Founder and CEO at Eddy Travels.

EButlers application is available on Android or iOS devices. Inside the application, members will find a new Travel category that will open a chat window with the Eddy Travels AI assistant. Users just need to send a text message to the digital travel assistant, and it will start searching for flights or accommodation. Lodging options are provided in partnership with Booking.com, the worlds most comprehensive hotel booking system.

The new partnership project is supported by Kiwi.com, the innovative travel-tech company, which powers more than 100 million searches every day.

EButler and Eddy Travels teams did a fantastic job building the AI-powered travel planning service that is convenient and fun to use. We are proud to be providers of flight and ground transportation inventory, including Virtual Interlining. Together well make it easy for the Qatar travellers to always find their perfect itinerary, for the lowest price. Oliver Dlouhy, CEO and Co-founder at Kiwi.com. - TradeArabia News Service
Concerns have been raised by bioethicist Nancy Jecker and others that such payments are coercive. I agree. That is the whole point. Coercion is not inherently unethical. For example, if I park in front of a fire hydrant, the city will tow my car; if I do not show up for work, my employer will stop sending me a paycheck. Coercion becomes problematic only when it infringes upon some vital liberty or imposes unfair risks on some groups more than others. Paying people to act in ways that will save their lives, and protect their neighbors, does neither. Of course, those with less money may prove more motivated to accept cash to get vaccinated, but thats a desirable result if it saves the lives of more indigent people.

Legally, the government can compel people to get vaccinated. This principle was established by the United States Supreme Court in 1905 and has been upheld consistently ever since. Doing so would also be ethically justifiable to protect the small number of individuals for whom vaccination proves ineffective. More important, sizable unvaccinated populations increase the risks of new coronavirus variants that could render vaccines ineffective  thus threatening the lives and livelihoods of us all.
As an ingredient for the batteries needed for a low carbon economy, lithium is often referred to as white gold and Germany could become the next hotbed of lithium mining and lithium-ion battery manufacturing as well. The country which houses a host of global auto majors that are gearing up to take the electric vehicle push to the next level has recently discovered there are huge storages of lithium trapped in underground springs of boiling hot water, sitting thousands of metres underneath the Rhine river.

(Also Read: Is your electric two-wheeler eligible to get FAME-II subsidy? Know here)

This lithium storage is such huge that it can produce enough batteries to power 400 million electric vehicles. No wonder, this will not only reduce Germany's lithium import dependence on other countries, which is the most critical mineral for making EV batteries; it will also help Germany to slash China's dominance in the segment. Besides that, it would help the global EV industry to procure lithium-ion and EV batteries at more competitive pricing as well, which will help the automakers and battery manufacturers for sure.

Germany is mulling the idea to mine the area of the Upper-Rhine Valley in the Black Forest area of the southwestern part of the country, where one of the biggest deposits of lithium is believed to be located. German-Australian start-up Vulcan Energy Resources already expressed its wish to built five power stations in the area with an investment of $2 billion.

According to the company's estimates, it would be able to extract up to 15,000 tons of lithium hydroxide per year at two sites by 2024. From 2025 onwards, the second phase of extraction could see an increased output of 40,000 tons per year at three additional sites.

There have been discussions around China's dominance in the lithium-ion mining and EV battery production market. European Union countries being the major players in electric vehicle adoptions globally, aim to take the lead in this strategy. According to an estimate by the European Union, the region will need 18 times more lithium by 2030 than today and 60 times more by 2050, as the number of EVs will grow substantially by then, owing to the EV adoption deadline set by several countries.

At present, most of the lithium imported into Europe comes from the mines in Australia and South America. In Australia, hard rock lithium extraction is an energy-intensive process, in addition to the carbon cost of shipping it around the world. On the other hand, in South America, lithium is produced by the evaporation of salt flats.

These mines in Australia and South America are majorly owned by Chinese companies, giving China massive control over the lithium-ion mining industry and EV battery production as well. While Portugal too is a major lithium producer in Europe, but most of its lithium is sold to the ceramics industry, not to the EV battery producers.

Car industry's interest

The car industry is surely excited about the discovery, but they are keeping a poker face so far, because of the doubts around the timeline of commercial-scale extraction of lithium from the site in Germany.

In the last few years, the investments in conventional lithium mining projects haven't had an easy run. However, Vulcan's plan to offset the cost of lithium production from geothermal energy sales could make mineral extraction a very low-cost affair. But, that's yet to be verified in reality.

Automakers such as Mercedes-Benz, BMW are monitoring the development and plan to reassess the situation as soon as Vulcan analyzes the first explored material and forecasts delivery volumes. There are doubts for sure, but none of these automakers are ruling out the possibilities of buying German lithium, subject to meeting the quality grade, delivery volume expectation, social and environmental standards.

So far, it is clear that the entire process to commercially produce a substantial amount of lithium from the site will take time. But once the production commences, it will help in easing the growth of electric mobility for sure, considering the estimate that by 2024, Germany's domestic lithium demand will increase between 9,000-32,000 tonnes per year depending on the pace of electric mobility rollout.
CHATSWORTH, Calif.Gay production studio Treasure Island Media (TIM) has teamed with fetish gear manufacturer Spitfire Leather to launch a new TIM-branded line of apparel.

The line ranges from high-end track suits and hoodies to jocks and harnesses, all designed to give patrons the chance to "dress like a Treasure Island Media star throughout your day."

"I used to dress all the porn stars appearing at Hustlaball London, so I know what these guys like to wear," Spitfire Leather founder and creative director Nhamo said. "All our items are produced to the highest quality. For example, our track suits are made from heavy-duty vegan leather, with double-hemmed seams to give strength and longevity."

Added Paul Stag, head of TIM Europe, "This is the first time a successful gay adult studio has teamed up with the very popular masculine fetish world to produce an exciting range of products. We are delighted to be partnering with Spitfire, who are known for their quality and have a well-earned reputation as the most creative and adventurous manufacturers of gear today."

He continued, "The famous Skull and Cutlass logo of Treasure Island media covers the entire back of these hoodies and is embroidered in two layers; with white base and black negative-space to render a striking visible image."

"Spitfire are honored to have been selected by Treasure Island Media to design and manufacture this exciting range of gear," Nhamo concluded. "Our shared vision has been to offer a selection of innovative items enhanced with the addition of Treasure Island Media buccaneering imagery."

View the new TIM collection from Spitfire Leather here.
SAN FRANCISCOSexual health and wellness retailer Good Vibrations has a slate of free Zoom events in store for the coming month as part of the 26th annual celebration of National Masturbation Month.

The first of these planned events, "Masturbation May: Celebrating 26 Years of Self-Love," takes place Wednesday at 6 p.m. PT, with Good Vibrations' Educator Andy and staff sexologist Dr. Carol Queen discussing the history of Mastubation May and the changes it has inspired.

Noted a company announcement, "Good Vibrations, originator of National Masturbation Month, is proud to celebrate the 26th year of this annual sex-positive, awareness-raising international holiday. In 1995 Good Vibrations staffers were reeling after the recent firing of Surgeon General Dr. Joyceleyn Elders, the first Black woman to serve in that role, for a simple and truthful statement about masturbation: when asked about whether it should be part of sex education curricula, she stated, in light of the pressing need for safer sex information, that it was something 'that perhaps should be taught' about in the context of sexual health information. Her dismissal by then-president Bill Clinton shook sexual health and pleasure activists and led to an historic meeting at Good Vibrations: the declaration of May as the first-ever National Masturbation Month. Other progressive sex shops soon signed on.

"Since then," the announcement continued, "masturbation has become a less-taboo subjectthough there is still work to be done to erase this form of sexual shame for everyone. ... Masturbation is near-universal and might be the most significant sexual building block there isso when people are denigrated for masturbating, it has negative effects on many aspects of sexuality. We need to talk about all this and make masturbation completely acceptable for anyone who chooses itand thats what Masturbation Month has always been about!"

To register for Wednesday's Zoom event, click here.

For more information, visit GoodVibes.com and follow Good Vibrations on Twitter and Instagram @goodvibestoys, as well as on Facebook.
CYBERSPACETwitter-based chat session #SexTalkTuesday this week welcomes the Erotic Laborers Alliance of New England (ELA-ONE) as special guest moderator, with a planned discussion topic of sex worker advocacy. The chat will run from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. ET.

ELA-ONE is a peer-led grassroots organization focused on providing resources, harm reduction and support for the sex work community. ELA-ONE provides testing, legal and medical assistance, along with care packages, weekly support group meetings, and a food program.

Commented ELA-ONE founder Ashley Fires, As ELA-ONE, we are dispelling myths about the conflation of human trafficking and consensual adult erotic labor. We are slowly chipping away at antiquated and harmful legislation by lobbying for sex worker rights, and we hope to help humanize those who engage in sex trade and aid in the decriminalization of sex work.

Angie Rowntree, owner of Sssh.com and producer of #SexTalkTuesday, added, Especially at a time like this when sex workers are facing mounting discrimination, and are also often subject to violent harm from extremeists, we want to support sex workers of all kinds, and hopefully inspire more allies as well.

Continued Fires, Events like this represent an important opportunity to grow the community of sex worker allies and to continue to raise awareness about the many challenges and ongoing discrimination [faced by] those in the sex trade.

Follow Ashley Fires and ELA-ONE on Twitter, respectively, @AshleyFires and @ela_erotic. For more information on Sssh.com (@ssshforwomen), or to inquire about serving as a guest moderator, contact Angie Rowntree (@AngieRowntree) at [email protected] or go to sextalktuesday.com.
Dorothy Butler Gilliam, the first Black woman reporter at The Washington Post, said in 2019, When journalists are being called an enemy of the people, and Black women reporters, and other reporters, are being called names and treated with such disrespect, I think its just so important to remind people of the importance of the media.

Robust, quality journalism, particularly at the local level, is undoubtedly critical for a functioning democracy. It supports civic engagement and provides communities with vital information on issues such as health care, public safety and economic development. Journalism provides the tools necessary for a well-informed public and sustainable self-government.

Unfortunately, journalism today is unable to meet the civic information needs of our nations communities. This is not particularly surprising given that journalism has been facing a decline for years. Waves of media consolidation has led to newspapers laying off nearly half of their employees since 2008. Hedge funds, who own controlling stakes in local and regional newspapers across the country, have implemented cost-cutting strategies that have significantly diminished newsrooms. Thousands of communities now live in news deserts  places with little to no access to local news.
The next morning I was greeted with three Black students from the Black Student Union waiting outside my office. They were polite but firm. We hear that you have offered one of our classes to some white buddy of yours, the spokesman for them said to me. When I confessed the truth and praised my friend's academic qualifications, he was skeptical. Of course, you did seek out a qualified Black professor first, he said. I was caught and sought to repair the damage. We agreed to delay the proposed appointment and to make sincere and wide efforts to find a more appropriate replacement. I suddenly realized, for the first time, that our department was almost entirely made up of white males. (Please remember that this was five decades ago.) I asked him for his help in the quest and he said he would be pleased to work with me. For the next two weeks, we circulated notices about the course to be taught throughout southern California and he used his wide contacts in the Black community to spread the word. He was an impressive young man and a very good colleague in our quest. To my surprise, I came up with no one and he found two possible candidates. They were good people but, we agreed after interviews, simply had no knowledge of the field. After a month without results, he sat in my office in anger and despair. How can it be that we have nobody to teach this course, in this area with so many Black people? he said, very near to tears. What is wrong with this world! I asked him if he felt he could teach it himself. He gave a wry smile. I'm a sociology major. I just don't know enough to teach a literature class, he said. And he told me to call up my friend, since the course was necessary and he wanted to take it himself. But my friend knew enough about the difficult situation on our campus to decline, and the course was not taught for five years.
Help India!



The 27-year-old is the youngest representative in the Assam legislative assembly following his victory over incumbent and former Congress minister Sukur Ali Ahmed from Barpeta districts Chenga constituency in the recently announced state election results.

Mahibul Hoque, TwoCircles.net

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Guwahati: In Assam, what do you get when you write a poem in your dialect highlighting the injustices and sufferings of your people? Sedition charges!

The my mother is D-voter sentence may attract the wrath of the dominant group of Assam, but for the subaltern of state, it provides solace and eventually leads them to choose a victor in the next state assembly elections.

Ashraful Hussain, a rookie, is an anti-Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) activist and fierce Miya poet who has faced sedition charges for his protest poem.

He left his corporate job to come back to Haripur, a small village around 80 kilometres west from Guwahati, and work for his community since 2016.

His engagement at the grassroots level prompted the voters of his constituency to ask him to contest ensuing assembly elections in Assam. People crowd-sourced resources such as rice, daal, tents apart from money to execute his electoral campaigns, a bottom-up election process.

The 27-year-old is the youngest representative in the Assam legislative assembly following his victory over incumbent and former Congress minister Sukur Ali Ahmed from Barpeta districts Chenga constituency in the recently announced state election results.

Ashraful, contesting with a Badar Uddin Ajmals All India United Democratic Front of Assam (AIUDF) ticket, garnered 75312 (58.83 per cent) votes to come on the top, way ahead of rivals from Assam Gana Parishad (AGP) candidate Rabiul Hussain and Congress veteran Sukur Ali Ahmed who got 23373 and 22573 votes respectively.

He is among the ten Miya poets who were booked for sedition. Miya poems took the socio-political environment of the state by storm when people started to write down the sufferings of the socially marginalised community.

Ashrafuls victory is significant for the political environment of Assam as his campaign focused on diametrically opposite issues than that of the populist sentiments of Assamese. One of his campaign posters read, The D-voter issue has become like cancer in contemporary times. In popular Assamese narrative, however, D-voter is a mechanism to deal with the illegal immigration from Bangladesh to protest the indigenous people of the state.

D-voter or doubtful voters or dubious voters is a category in the electoral roll of Assam to disenfranchise voters allegedly for their lack of documentary proof of their Indian citizenship.

On his social media page during the campaign, he wrote, Those who ripped off everyone by the D-Voter problem, my aim objective is to salvage them from this cancer like disease along with his resolute stance in assisting to get every eligible citizen enrolled in the National Register of Citizens (NRC) paved the way for his electoral success.

While the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its stalwart Himanta Biswa Sarma carried out their election campaign on polarisation, Ashrafuls grassroots connection with the impoverished marginalised paid the dividends.

It has been his relentless work towards the community during the NRC update process, issue of child marriage, D-voter and helping migrants during the lockdown announced following the first wave of Covid-19 infections that made him a public face.

When overnight notices for hearings in far-flung parts of Assam were served to people of our district, he rose to help them. From arranging buses to carry them to Upper Assam districts, boats to ferry people to the buses, to arranging food in Upper Assam districts, we worked together to get people to attend the re-verification process hundreds of kilometres away from our place, said a fellow Miya protest poet who did not wish to be named.

It was the desire to work for the community which made him leave his job, which he got due to his mechanical engineering diploma, and return to his village from Maharashtra. Once back in his home, he found himself amid the NRC chaos. With the resolution to serve the people, he initiated village to village campaign to train people about the verification process, filling forms, and appearing in the hearings of NRC.

During the NRC update process, he along with his friends made sure that the elderly women, widows, and labourers get to attend the verifications notified repeatedly by the NRC authority.

Engrossed in social activism, he became the reach-out person for the masses from within the Barpeta district as well as outside of the district. This reflected when migrant labour from various parts of the state and the country started calling to get them back home during the lockdown.

He ran donation drives, arranged buses to bring many of the migrant labourers, said the fellow Miya poet.

Just after his return to Assam in 2016, he would reach out to the victims of evictions led by the BJP government in minority areas. He raised food, clothing and money for the evicted families in Darrang and Dhubri districts.

During his election campaign, he rallied on the promise of land rights for the people of char (riverine sandbanks) areas of Assam. The land policy of Assam, introduced in 2019 by the BJP, affect the community largely as it potentially leaves the community from gaining land rights of their ancestral land. He has also promised to get an adequate number of teachers against students in schools as a high teacher-student ratio ail education in minority areas of Assam, as well.

Abdul Kalam Azad, a PhD candidate at Amsterdam University and social activist told TwoCircles.net, His win will change the fate of Miya politics in Assam. He is brave, unapologetic, deeply committed to the people he represents and a strong believer in constitutional ethos. Unlike others, he is expected to fight for the dignity of his people. This will bring a paradigm shift in the political narratives about Miya Muslims of Assam.
Cheneys decision to impeach Trump and her continued criticism of the former president has brought on a number of outspoken critics in the Republican party as well as possible threats to her seat in the House. In February, Cheney safely survived a secret ballot to remove her as Republican Conference Chair 145-61. Following the vote, it seemed that Cheney might emerge as a leader of an overtly anti-Trump faction of the Republican Party, but that did not pan out.

On Friday, Rep. Anthony Gonzalez, a Republican who voted to impeach Trump, even went as far as to tell The Hill, If a prerequisite for leading our conference is lying to our voters, then Liz is not the best fit.

Rep. Gonzalezs quote sums things up well, a Cheney spokesperson said.

Cheney is up for reelection in 2022. She is facing primary challenges from two state lawmakers  Sen. Anthony Bouchard and Rep. Chuck Gray  who are both running as the anti-Cheney candidate while heavily appealing to Trumps large Wyoming base and the former president himself. Trump has yet to endorse a candidate for the race.
BISMARCK, N.D.  Law officers in Morton County on Monday afternoon are set to detonate munitions as part of the evidence-exchanging process in a federal lawsuit filed by a Dakota Access Pipeline protester who claims police targeted her with a concussion grenade.

Attorneys for Sophia Wilansky, of New York, have been jockeying over evidence for months with attorneys for the county and officers who were part of the law enforcement response to the DAPL protests in south central North Dakota in 2016-17.

The two sides agreed during a March 16 conference that Morton County will procure at Wilanskys expense up to five munitions and deploy them in the presence of an expert hired by Wilansky. The initial date of April 6 was later moved to May 3, according to an order filed by U.S. Magistrate Judge Alice Senechal.

Senechal doesnt specify what the munitions are, and attorneys for the two sides didn't respond to requests for comment. Earlier court filings by Wilanskys attorneys sought fully functional examples of every type of munition, armament, less-lethal weapon, and crowd-control device that Law Enforcement Agents carried or used at or around the Backwater Bridge during the 24 hours surrounding Ms. Wilanskys injury. They also sought the remains of any devices that the county alleges protesters used.
MOUNT RUSHMORE NATIONAL MONUMENT, S.D.  Gov. Kristi Noem on Monday told South Dakota's tourism industry to gear up for a busy summer, as she expects an influx of visitors itching to travel after more than a year of dealing with the coronavirus pandemic.

During an event at Mount Rushmore National Memorial, where she is suing to hold another fireworks display this summer, the Republican governor said there are many signs that tourism  the state's second-largest industry  will make a big rebound.

"The tourism industry is so important to our entire state," Noem said, pointing to the tax revenue it brings in and the jobs it sustains.

Tourism spending dropped by 18% in 2020, but Noem said the state still welcomed ample visitors. She drew widespread attention  and criticism  for forgoing virus restrictions and hosting a fireworks display at Mount Rushmore that featured former President Donald Trump. She also welcomed people to the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, where hundreds contracted COVID-19 and brought it back to more than two dozen states.
Crews appear close to winning the battle against two large wildfires in western North Dakota.

The 4,600-acre Roosevelt Creek Fire in the Little Missouri National Grassland was 70% contained on Monday, and "I think we're feeling pretty good about where we're at, at this point," said Misty Hays, district ranger for the grassland's Medora Ranger District.

A fire on the Fort Berthold Indian Reservation had grown to 9,800 acres but was 75% contained Monday, and "We're hoping to be close to 95% containment by the end of today," said Marle Baker, fire management officer for the Three Affiliated Tribes and chief of the Mandaree Volunteer Fire Department.

Both fires are in remote, rugged terrain. Together they have scorched 22  square miles, an area that's greater than the size of Minot.

The grassland fire started Wednesday about 6 miles north of the Wannagan Campground, north of the South Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. It threatened multiple structures as well as oil and gas infrastructure, but no structures have been lost and no injuries have been reported, according to Hays.

"Yesterday we did get a little bit of moisture, and it was cooler yesterday -- that has improved conditions a fair amount," she said.
Law officers in Morton County on Monday afternoon are set to detonate munitions as part of the evidence-exchanging process in a federal lawsuit filed by a Dakota Access Pipeline protester who claims police targeted her with a concussion grenade.

Attorneys for Sophia Wilansky, of New York, have been jockeying over evidence for months with attorneys for the county and officers who were part of the law enforcement response to the DAPL protests in south central North Dakota in 2016-17.

The two sides agreed during a March 16 conference that Morton County will procure at Wilanskys expense up to five munitions and deploy them in the presence of an expert hired by Wilansky. The initial date of April 6 was later moved to May 3, according to an order filed by U.S. Magistrate Judge Alice Senechal.

Senechal doesnt specify what the munitions are, and attorneys for the two sides didn't respond to requests for comment. Earlier court filings by Wilanskys attorneys sought fully functional examples of every type of munition, armament, less-lethal weapon, and crowd-control device that Law Enforcement Agents carried or used at or around the Backwater Bridge during the 24 hours surrounding Ms. Wilanskys injury. They also sought the remains of any devices that the county alleges protesters used.
This is Up and Down, where we give a brief thumbs up or thumbs down on the issues from the past week.

Up

Leaders of a local nonprofit broke ground last week on the Dream Center, a facility that aims to house services to the needy and offer ministry all under one roof. The two-story, 24,000-square-foot building at 1805 Park Avenue in Bismarck will be home to The Banquet nondenominational meal ministry, its Adopt-A-Block food distribution truck, a food pantry, a chapel, a multipurpose room and offices for partner agencies such as health care providers. The project is the vision of Jim Barnhardt. He and his wife, Cindy, have already been active in efforts to serve the community, such as launching the Adopt-A-Block program. The $3.1 million Dream Center Bismarck project is an ambitious goal worthy of community support.

Down

North Dakota motor vehicle fatalities are trending upward so far in 2021, according to preliminary data released last week by the Vision Zero campaign. As of April 27, there had been 26 vehicle fatalities in 2021. The same time frame in 2020 had nine fatalities and 2019 had 22. Not wearing a seat belt, drinking and driving and speeding are some of the factors that contribute to the motor vehicle deaths.

Up
Over the next two months, The Buffalo News will tell the stories of some of Western New Yorks veterans who served in the armed services in World War II and beyond.

Know of a veteran's story we should tell? Let us know by calling 849-4444, emailing citydesk@buffnews.com or submitting a name at buffalonews.com/news-tip/.

***

The Army regiment Jim Maier served with during World War II, the 314th Infantry, boasted a couple of thousand soldiers at the height of the war.

Today, said Maier, who was one of its youngest members and regularly attended the regiment's annual reunions, he thinks he's one of just a handful of survivors left.

But when the 94-year-old Town of Tonawanda resident thinks back to his wartime service, he most often remembers "the guys that didn't come back."

He recalled the signature boom of the Germans' 88-mm field artillery, a sound that would send soldiers scrambling for cover. One day, weeks before the end of the fighting in Europe, a fellow soldier, a married man in his 30s, died when a shell landed directly in his lap, Maier recalled.

"I think he was the last guy killed in our outfit," Maier said during a recent interview. "Those are the guys I feel sorry for."

Maier was just 17 when he enlisted in the Army through a specialized training program that sent him to study at the University of Wisconsin at Madison. He had grown up in Racine, Wis., the only child of a machinist father and homemaker mother.

"I'm a lone star," Maier said. He attended a high school named after the original patent holder for malted milk and, in recent years, has provided $3,000 in annual scholarships to its graduates.

As a child, he built model airplanes using the wood from the boxes that held 2-pound blocks of Kraft cheese, a hobby that sparked an interest in flying.

"I wanted to become a pilot. But my eyesight was 20-400," Maier said.

He moved up his graduation from high school and, by February 1944, was on campus at Madison, where the members of his training program included future Playboy founder Hugh Hefner.

The group was supposed to spend four years there, but when D-Day came the Army ended the program in order to get more soldiers into the war as soon as possible.

Maier went to basic training at what was then Camp Hood, in Texas, and by fall 1944 was on a troop ship heading to Scotland. He then joined the 314th, part of the 79th Infantry Division, in the Alsace region of France, where they replaced other units depleted by combat.

The 79th faced fierce resistance in eastern France and while crossing the Reine River into western Germany. "We pushed the Germans out of there," he said.

He made it through the fighting, including marking his 18th birthday, without being wounded. But the exposure to combat, and to his fellow soldiers from across the country, was eye-opening to a teenager.

"You grow up fast," said Maier, noting he learned how to swear in Spanish.

By V-E Day, which marked Germany's surrender, Maier's unit was in Dortmund, Germany, guarding a brewery.

"To keep people away from what was left of the beer," he said with a laugh. "The only people that got any beer was our company."

His regiment was preparing to join the fighting in the Pacific theater when word came of Japan's surrender.

The devastation wrought by the war was apparent, Maier added. "We went through Nuremberg," he said. "Nuremberg was rubble."

Maier earned a Bronze Star medal for meritorious achievement, a recognition he modestly downplayed.

"As far as I'm concerned, I didn't do anything," Maier said. "I think they just had a bunch of Bronze Stars they had to give out."

He came home in June 1946, returning to Madison to earn an engineering degree.

When Bell Aerosystems recruited him to join the company's plant near Niagara Falls, Maier remembered thinking, "Oh boy, I'm back on airplanes again."

Maier met his future wife, Lucille, in January 1951 in Bell's employment office. Maier had his hat on the chair next to him in the crowded waiting area when she approached and asked if that seat was taken. Lucille Maier died in 1999.

Maier was a development engineer at Bell and head of its accelerometer group. Some of the components his team worked on were incorporated into NASA's lunar module.

He left Bell in 1972 and joined Teledyne Taber in North Tonawanda, working as a chief engineer on aviation instrumentation, before retiring in 1980.

"I'm obsolete now," he quipped.

***

Read previous Stories of Honor:

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The Iroquois Confederacy was trending on Twitter the other day. The attention came in reaction to something that Rick Santorum said. But lets leave the former senator aside for the moment and talk about what really matters.

The U.S. Constitution is based in significant part on the Haudenosaunee (or Iroquois) Confederacy. This is an aspect of history that is important to know, especially in Buffalo. Thats because one of the Six Nations of that Confederacy is the Seneca Nation of Indians, who have lived for centuries in what is now known as Western New York and Southern Ontario.

The Seneca joined with the Mohawks, the Onondaga, the Cayuga, the Oneida  and later the Tuscarora  to form a central government that ties those nations together while at the same time maintaining their individual governance.

This living example of federalism served as a model for what would become the U.S. Constitution. The Senate recognized this in a 1988 resolution marking the bicentennial of the Constitution: The confederation of the original 13 colonies into one republic was influenced by the political system developed by the Iroquois Confederacy, as were many of the democratic principles which were incorporated into the Constitution itself.
And then there is the Skyway. The name alone conjures images of blue skies and their reflection playing on sparkling water. Or perhaps gray forbidding clouds scudding across white capped waves, foretelling an approaching storm. Regardless of season or time of day

I never tire of the sight of the beautiful church spires, the resolute profile of City Hall, and the concrete monoliths called grain elevators that supported my ancestors who left Ireland to make Buffalo their home.

Often these days, I travel our fair city with my grandson. His name is Jack Gerken and at the tender age of 4 he makes some astute observations. As we begin our ascent I can hear the thrill in his voice at his first glimpse of water and he tells me, There it is, Nanni! Our ocean! Lake Erie!

The weather and time of day guide our conversation. Sometimes we talk about people fishing on the frozen harbor. Other times we discuss waves crashing over the break wall. In the early morning we may see fog, and at night there is the possibility for extraordinary sunsets and moon glow.
A rainforest is something of a rain machine, generating about 50% of its rainfall by its leaves sending moisture into the air, where it rises, cools, condenses and falls as rain. But with deforestation, the amount of evapotranspiration of water vapor into the atmosphere plummets, and in addition to rainfall reduction in lower humidity, carbon storage in the trees and plants is reduced as they vanish.

The reduction in the forest canopy is already leading to more frequent drought conditions and the spread of destructive wildfires. The Amazon basin had been a primary carbon sink, with its plant life absorbing so much carbon. With a transition to a savannah, these great volumes of stored carbon will again be released to the atmosphere, exacerbating the warming in the global climate. Lovejoy and others estimate the forest canopy currently stores about 100 billion tons of carbon, which is three times the amount of carbon emitted on an annual basis by the burning of fossil fuels.

This article is chock-full of well-supported pessimism. Yet there are leading climate scientists who are not fatalistic about where it is we are heading. Notably, Michael Mann, renowned Penn State climate scientist and professor of meteorology, recently told California magazine: Im committed to the belief that there will be a moment, perhaps not in the too distant future, where the political winds writ large will be more favorable. I think at that point, we will see the tipping point on climate action, because the groundwork has been laid, the scientific case is compelling, nature is compelling, nature is communicating the profound impacts of climate change directly to us, and that means well be able to hit the ground running.

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Best Types of Bags for Men

How to Be the Best Dressed Bag Man on the Block

The AskMen editorial team thoroughly researches & reviews the best gear, services and staples for life. AskMen may get paid if you click a link in this article and buy a product or service.

Product photos from retailer site.

Now that everything seems to have opened up again, you may find yourself having to carry the weight of the world on your shoulders or rather the weight of your newly accustomed working-from-home set up around with you. Whether youre bouncing from one important meeting to the next, downing a protein shake as you hit the gym, or resuming your daily red-eye commute, youll need to carry some out-of-home-office essentials with you.

RELATED: Your Spring Wardrobe in 13 Pieces

We understand getting used to being able to leave the house without most of your worldly possessions when you go on your daily hunt for food at the store or enjoy a leisurely stroll in nature has spoilt you, but now its time to get practical and set yourself up for success no matter what the activity.

With so many different types of bags for you to consider, it can be overwhelming trying to choose which type is right for you. The good news is that which type of bag you end up choosing, the days of cramming all your stuff into your jeans pockets are over. As it is officially time to upgrade that back pocket in favor of a sleek leather or canvas bag to tote your stuff around in  whether you are a student or the CEO, weve got your bases covered.

Best Backpacks for Men

The backpack is one of the only items we continuously use from childhood right up into adulthood, whether you are lugging books to the library or holding sensitive information on your laptop, the backpack will evenly distribute the weight on both shoulders allowing you to keep going for longer.

Rains Field Bag

Owning a backpack is essential, at the very least for practical reasons, and this Field Bag ticks all the boxes. In classic RAINS fashion, the Danish brand has designed an aesthetically pleasing waterproof piece that will go with everything in your wardrobe. Designed in a fool-proof army green polyester and polyurethane blend, it can accommodate 16 liter and has a handy internal laptop compartment.

$89 at EndClothing.com

Troubadour Explorer Apex Faux Leather Backpack

Cleverly named the Explorer, this navy faux grained leather backpack by Troubadour is ideal for busy work days during the week and adventure-filled weekends, thanks to the padded reverse. Designed with a contemporary feel, curved edges, flat seams, and debossed logo, this bag has several compartments to house all your daily favorites.

$245 at Matches Fashion

Matein Travel Laptop Backpack

This best seller looks best in gray, but stays stylish no matter which color you choose. With one separate laptop compartment to hold up to a 15.6 inch laptop, one generous compartment for daily necessities, and a front compartment with pockets inside for all the little things, this backpack is all about function and form. The luggage strap lets it slide onto luggage with ease and the hidden anti theft pocket protects valuable items when traveling at home, or internationally. Whats more? The built in USB charger outside and built in charging cable inside allows for the most convenient way to charge your phone while walking, biking, hiking, or whatever your adventurous spirit inspires you to do.

$25.99 at Amazon.com

Best Duffle Bags for Men

Whether you are a holdall, barrel, or duffel type of man, one thing we can all agree on is how handy they are. For frequent travelers, it is vital to find the right fit for you (in preparation for when we get the green light to start traveling again), and even if you are not familiar with the jet-set life just yet, after getting your hands on the right one, we bet you wont be able to let it leave your side.

Fred Perry Authentic Classic Barrel Bag

You cant beat an old classic style and this tan and ecru Fred Perry barrel bag effortlessly taps into its iconic and sporty design history. Made with durable faux leather and decorated with detachable shoulder straps, two exterior pockets, and a sturdy handle grip, this will make you travel with ease.

$95 at EndClothing.com

Ted Baker Vikter Nylon Holdall

Imagine finding a bag that gets better with age and can be packed at a moments notice? Meet the Ted Baker Vikter, dressed in a rich and durable olive or navy nylon, with the brands signature colors stitched in a durable weave and finished fitted internal slip pockets. The only thing you will have to worry about is what to pack.

$146 at TedBaker.com

Plambag Canvas Overnight Duffle Bag

This bag is bigger than it looks thanks to its expandable design. With pull down side zippers, you can expand the bag to over two feet to maximize interior space when packing. Add to that, this travel duffle has a total of eight pockets for all those little bits and bobs you dont want running loose in the bag.

$39.99 at Amazon.com

Best Crossbody Bag for Men

We know, to some it might be a hell-no but the fanny pack has cemented itself back into our wardrobes for the foreseeable future. So with no way of avoiding it, you might as well embrace it with open arms. Wed suggest gravitating to neutral colors that will stand the test of time.

Everlane ReNew Transit Bag

Everlane, renowned for being a both chic and sustainable label, has designed the ReNew Transit bag made from 100% recycled polyester with a recycled nylon adjustable shoulder strap, in a soft taupe, which is the perfect hue for casual days on the go. The best part? It can be cleaned up with ease using just a little soap and water.

$35 at Everlane.com

Tommy Hilfiger THD Fanny Pack

Though if trendy is your thing, this sleek black nylon canvas leather Tommy Hilfiger piece is the direction to go. Stamped with the distinct Tommy Hilfiger Jeans logo, you can feel free to pound the city streets anywhere in the world.

$76 at Amazon.com

Eastpak The One Crossbody Bag

If you want something to blend in and go with just about everything, go with a denim design from Eastpak. This streamlined crossbody in a durable ballistic weave will never let you down.

$55 at Amazon.com

Best Gym Bags

Its been a while since youve seen the inside of a gym, so not give your old gym bag a refresh, as well as the activewear that youve been living in? Our bet is you wont regret it, especially when you will be able to easily house everything you need to help you jump straight into beast mode.

ASOS Unrvlld Spply Duffle Bag

Coming in straight from ASOS own Unrvlld Spply label, dedicated to the sweat dressing hype this black nylon barrel bag can accommodate over 37 liters, and with an easy wipe clean function, youll be back on track in no time.

$26 at ASOS.com

Alo Yoga City Zen Duffle

Need an elevated upgrade? Look no further than the nylon City Zen Duffle from Alo Yoga that combines function with style. In keeping with Alo, the black bag offers you the luxury of space for all your amenities with two zip compartments; the top being for all your go-to items whilst the bottom is for shoes, towels, or sweaty clothes, with the bonus of stretchy straps at the bottom to hold your yoga mat  you cant go wrong.

$198 at AloYoga.com

Under Armour Undeniable Duffle 3.0 Gym Bag

When in doubt, break the Under Armour out. This brand has a tried and true track record for gym goers, so it is no surprise that this bad boy has 95% positive reviews on Amazon. With a reflective Under Armour logo, a capacity of 88 liters, a selection of colors in the double digits, and a price thats hard to beat, you could easily buy a different one to take every day of the week.

$35 at Amazon.com

Best Briefcases for Men

Oh the humble briefcase, whilst some may have swapped it for the handy document holder or the younger backpack, we cant ignore the loyal yet waning army of fans.

ASOS DESIGN Black Leather Briefcase Satchel

Look familiar? Yes the ASOS Design briefcase might bear resemblance to a famous brand (ahem, Bottega Veneta) however if you are easing yourself back into wearing one, this 100% black leather piece might be a winner. Adorned in a woven design with detachable straps and silver-tone hardware, it is bound to steal the show in any boardroom.

$47.30 at ASOS.com

Vocier Legacy F26 Double Briefcase

To ensure all your documents stay safe during the work day or on the work trip, invest in the roomier Vocier F26 double briefcase that comes in chocolate or black full grain luxurious Italian leather, with sturdy handles, detachable shoulder strap, smooth cotton interior lining, and a with separate pocket for laptops up to 15 inches. It offers additional capacity with two zipped compartments that open wide for easy lay-flat access of all essentials. Whether dressed-up, or more casual, this luxurious leather briefcase is perfect for your daily commute, but also attaches seamlessly to our Legacy luggage for longer trips  to help indulge your inner playful side.

$557 at Vocier.com

Lorell Expandable Attache Case

Sometimes less is more, and that can be a very good thing. For example, this classic hard case black leather suitcase expands a full inch, to five inches total to provide added space when needed, features a full organizer and a file pocket, plus dual combination locks for added security.

$42.32 at Amazon.com

To send a statement that you mean business whether it is for work or for pleasure, choose your bag wisely, and dont be afraid to infuse a pop color or texture to bring any outfit to life. No matter the occasion or time.

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MONTREAL  Operations at the Port of Montreal were expected to resume gradually beginning Saturday after the Senate passed legislation forcing striking workers back on the job.

The House of Commons approved the bill Thursday, and it was debated and approved by the Senate late Friday.

The Maritime Employers Association issued a brief statement Saturday saying activities at the port would gradually ramp up.

The Port of Montreal said resuming operations and reestablishing the normal flow of goods will take several days and clients waiting to import or export goods should expect delays.

"The process established by the legislation will lead to establishing a new collective agreement between the parties, with no possibility of work stoppages," the port authority said in a statement.

"While a prior settlement between the parties would have been preferable, the strategic character of port operations has led to a decision that highlights the need to resume this major economic activity."

About $275 million worth of goods moves through Port of Montreal docks each day, including food, pharmaceuticals and construction equipment.

Michel Murray of the Canadian Union of Public Employees local that represents the dockworkers has called the federal back-to-work legislation an attack on the workers' constitutional right to strike.

He told reporters at a May Day protest in Montreal on Saturday the union would take legal action and file complaints with the International Labour Organization.

A spokeswoman for the union confirmed that its members would be back on the job as of Sunday.

The new legislation stipulates that a mediator-arbitrator will be selected in the coming days and the most recent collective agreement will be extended until a new deal is established.

The 1,150 workers at the port have been without a contract since December 2018.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 1, 2021.

The Canadian Press
India Goes Into 21 Day Lockdown Due To Coronavirus COVID 19

A man with his face covered, reads the newspaper on day twelve of the 21-day nationwide lockdown to check the spread of coronavirus, at Azadpur Mandi, on April 5, 2020 in New Delhi, India. Credit - Sanchit Khanna/Hindustan Times via Getty Images

As Indias COVID-19 second wave began to surge last month, the countrys largest-selling newspaper, the Hindi-language Dainik Bhaskar, splashed its Apr. 15 front page with a night-time shot of a crematorium in the city of Bhopal, dotted with the ghoulish orange glow of pyres. The banner headline declared, The governments data are fake, the pyres tell the truth.

That day, Bhopal officially reported four COVID-19 deaths. But the paper found that the three crematoriums in the city had conducted the funerals of 112 COVID-19 victims. Similar under-reporting in other parts of the country was called out by newspapers, television channels and online media. In Gujarat, the home state of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the city of Ahmedabad declared 20 COVID-19 deaths on Apr. 12. Local paper Sandesh reported that at just one city hospital, 63 people died of the virus that day.

The COVID-19 catastrophe unfolding in India is being painstakingly chronicled by Indian journalists, who are holding the government to account for it. For Indias mostly servile media, this is a striking break from the usual after seven years of Modi. Its also a little late.

Read More: Indias COVID-19 Crisis Is Spiraling Out of Control. It Didnt Have to Be This Way

Many Hindi- and English-language news channels, as well as regional news outlets, are unabashedly pro-Modi. They have routinely exaggerated the governments successes and either glossed over its failures or spun ways to pin them on Modis discontents: the opposition, liberals, Muslims, activists, leftists, protesters, NGOs, and other assorted anti-nationals.

The governments handling of the pandemic has now made the scale of COVID-19 damage difficult to hide for even the staunchest of its media friends. But it is that medias Pavlovian obeisance to power that helped the build-up of this epic tragedy. A media trained to amplify the ruling party uncritically failed to hold it to account when there was time, and force real action. All that has happenedthe collapsing healthcare system, the mountains of corpses, the nationwide hunt for oxygen and the scramble for a piece of earth to give the dead the dignity denied to them in lifeis as much on the media as it is on the government.

Story continues

A view inside the Covid-19 care center at the Commonwealth Games Village, on May 2, 2021 in New Delhi, India. Raj K Raj/Hindustan Times via Getty Images

How watchdogs became poodles

The taming of Indias media began with Modis rise to national power in 2014. His ascent was accompanied by a remaking of the editorial leadership of some of Indias major news organizations, in particular national-level television networks. The previous crop of senior editors, seen to be more loyal to the liberal vision of India rather than his Bharatiya Janata Partys (BJP) Hindu nationalist worldview, were eased out and new channels and news leaders, with fealty to the party and Modi, were established.

Democratic governments elsewhere seek validation from the media, and their spin doctors toil for favorable headlines. In India, Modi has ensured it is the media outletswith a few honorable exceptionsthat seek the governments approval. For a dominant section of the media, derisively called godi media (Hindi for lapdog media), every news show is as much a competition for ratings as it is for gaining the masters affections.

Indias federal and provincial governments wield enormous power over media corporations because of their hefty state and party advertising budgets. The federal government alone spent about $270,000 on advertisements every day in the 2019 to 2020 financial year. Access to power and business favors add to the inducements to stay on message. Modi has used these levers to turn some of the biggest names in Indias news industry from barking watchdogs into obliging poodles. Today India ranks 142nd out of 180 territories in the World Press Freedom Index, below the military-ruled states of Myanmar (140) and Thailand (137).

Read More: The Indian Government Is Silencing Critics Even As Its COVID-19 Crisis Surges

This lowly status is most acutely felt in the poor quality of public information. The media echo chamber ensures that bad news never sticks to the government. Or better still, never gets out. The diversions are blatant and often laughable. When Modi suddenly pulled high-value banknotes from circulation in a supposed war on dark money in 2016a crippling shock from which the economy never recoveredsome news presenters gushed that the replacement notes would come embedded with nano GPS chips, making them impossible to hide.

A Covid-19 patient receiving oxygen support in a car at an "Oxygen langar" by Gurdwara Damdama Sahib, on May 2, 2021 in New Delhi, India. Sanjeev Verma/Hindustan Times via Getty Images

Amplifying Modis narrative on the pandemic

Just as common as misinformation is the cheerleading for Modis every move. Whatever the prime minister does is a masterstroke. And so it has been with the handling of the pandemic. Indias first COVID-19 case was confirmed in January last year, but his government dismissed the oppositions warnings about the coming disaster well into March. Theres no need to panic, the countrys health minister tweeted on Mar. 5, 2020. India DOES have a robust healthcare system which is being appreciated globally.

But just a couple of weeks later, Modi declared one of the worlds most severe lockdowns with a mere four hours notice. The incomes of millions living in precarity vanished in an instant, triggering an unprecedented mass migration of daily wage earners from the cities back to their villages. Hundreds died trying to get home amid the lockdown. The economy crashed 24%. The number of poor people increased by 75 million, accounting for 60% of the global increase in poverty that year.

The media protected Modi from any proper public scrutiny of his initial handling of the pandemic. He made repeated television appearances in which he said little of substance and offered no concrete plans to tackle the crisis. Instead, he called for festivals of sound and light, and ordered the armed forces to shower flowers on hospitalsall of it hyped up by doting anchors as proof of Modis strong leadership.

The series of spectacles helped keep the attention away from the crisis affecting migrant laborers and a meltdown of the healthcare system and the economy during the first wave. Godi media also chipped in with reports blaming Muslims for spreading COVID-19, following the Delhi gathering of an apolitical Islamic organization called Tablighi Jamaat. The media happily disseminated the idea that this was a deliberate superspreader event, with daily reportage suggesting a wider corona jihad by Muslims.

As the virus waned after the first surge, Modi set the media narrative that it was his decisive lockdown that had saved the country, and prematurely declared victory against the disease. Then, even as scientists warned another wave was imminent, Modi led state after state into elections, with every election rally a chance for unmasked crowds to gather while the media whipped up campaign fever with wall-to-wall coverage. While his government stopped preparing for a second wave, television channels gave it prime time slots for the promotion of snake-oil cures for COVID-19 rather than tracking the progress in building up oxygen and hospital capacity.

Read More: How Countries Around the World Are Helping India Fight COVID-19and How You Can Too

The media also amplified Modis propaganda touting Indian vaccine leadership. One of the two Indian vaccines is homegrown but the major one, the Oxford-AstraZeneca one, is as Indian as Mercedes-Benz is Chinesesimply made in India under an outsourcing contract. Modi wasnt giving away vaccines to the world, as the headlines suggested. Except for a tiny amount of Indian handouts, vaccines manufactured by two Indian companies were sent abroad either as part of an agreed global program of equitable vaccine distribution, or as commercial exports. And there was a lot to export, because Modi wasnt buying much for his own people.

Neither did Modi help the two Indian companies scale up production to meet Indias needs, nor did he allow in foreign vaccines, as that would jar with his India vaccine story. Now vaccines are in short supply and the vaccination rate is abysmally low. If the media had demanded to know what exactly he was doing to vaccinate his people, apart from talking about it, India might have tackled the second surge better.

At every step of the COVID-19 saga over the past year, major sections of the Indian media have abdicated their oversight responsibility. They refused to question Modi, and allowed him to use a national disaster to bolster his image, consolidate power, stifle dissent and masquerade grandstanding as governance. Like Modi, they failed India when India needed them most. Indians and the world now blame Modis government for dropping the ball in the fight against COVID-19. Media houses that rolled over for Indias rulers are equally culpable.
Data Analytics

Higher Ed Benchmarking Tool Compares Financial Metrics to Peer Institutions

Accounting and advisory firm BKD CPAs & Advisors has released a benchmarking tool that allows colleges and universities to compare their financial metrics and performance indicators with peer institutions.

BKDpulse offers a suite of interactive dashboards that use data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) to help institutions track their composite financial index (CFI) score, operating margin, days cash on hand and age of plant, according to a news announcement. Users can create custom groups to compare data across or within institution types (including private and public institutions, proprietary schools and community colleges), and then assess the relative financial position of their own institution.

"BKDpulse allows financial leaders, institutional researchers and enrollment planners to quickly and efficiently access and visualize data in ways that allow them to make timely and informed decisions," explained Adam Smith, BKD partner and Higher Education Center of Excellence leader, in a statement. "Time is critical in today's environment, and this tool can help leaders gain more insights and respond to important industry data."

For more information, visit the BKD site.
The Community Foundation of Chippewa County has announced that scholarships from the Doris Vennard Scholarship Endowment Fund were awarded to five Chippewa County students.

The following students received the 2021 scholarship awards:

Justyne BurgessBloomer

Abigail EilerCadott

Cassie SorensonChippewa Falls

Derrick TaylorNew Auburn

Kennedy WilliChippewa Falls

Doris endowment fund was established in 2008 from her Trust to provide scholarships to Chippewa County High School graduates who are pursuing a degree in the nursing profession.

Doris Trust to support these scholarships was created in 1983 and subsequently, her designated endowment fund was started at the Community Foundation. During the 38 years of the scholarship being in existence, a total of $130,000 in scholarships have been awarded to 323 students in need.

Each year to honor Doris, the Chippewa County Department of Public Health sends out the Doris Vennard scholarship applications to Chippewa County High Schools and awardees from the previous years. Applicants are required to be Chippewa County residents as that was Doris wishes.
Heres a look at how area members of Congress voted over the previous week:

There were no key votes in the House this week.

Senate votes

Budget management: The Senate has confirmed the nomination of Jason Scott Miller to serve as the Office of Management and Budgets deputy director for management. Miller was an economic advisor in the Obama administration, and then became CEO of the Greater Washington (D.C.) Partnership. The vote, on April 27, was 81 yeas to 13 nays. Yeas:

Johnson R-WI, Baldwin D-WI

Environmental protection: The Senate has confirmed the nomination of Janet Garvin McCabe to serve as the Environmental Protection Agencys deputy administrator. McCabe was a senior EPA official in the Obama administration, and since 2017 has been a law professor at Indiana University. The vote, on April 27, was 52 yeas to 42 nays. Nays: Johnson R-WI; yeas:

Baldwin D-WI
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 3) - Comedian Rufa Mae Quinto shared that she landed an international magazine cover stint, which will be released next week.

The actress posted on Instagram a teaser of the upcoming magazine cover shot by US-based Filipino photographer Vincent Gotti.

Pasabog for the week! (Surprise for the week!) I had the pleasure of shooting with one of San Franciscos top Photographers @vinniegotti for an upcoming magazine cover in Showbiz Hollywood. It will be released May 11th," said Quinto in her post.

Quinto said she cant believe that she landed the opportunity.

Di ko ma-explain sa asawa ko na nasa Hollywood cover magazine na ako, Kasi di ako makapaniwala...Natawa ako habang sinasabi ko sa asawa ko na Hollywood nga ito. Salamat sa lahat, na miss ko mag-pose ng ganito ... So proud to be a Filipino! Hinde na ito joke, she said.

[Translation: I cant explain to my husband that Im in magazine cover in Hollywood, because I cant believe it...I laughed when I shared it to him that this is in Hollywood. Thank you everyone, I miss posing like this...So proud to be a Filipino! This is not a joke!]

Quinto married her husband Trevor Magallanes in 2016. They were in the US with their daughter since the pandemic began last year.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 3) -- A fashion design student in Isabela landed an opportunity to design the national costume of a delegate to the upcoming Miss Universe pageant.

In a social media post on Monday, the Central Luzon State University congratulated Kennedy Gasper for having the chance to create Miss Cameroons national costume in the prestigious beauty contest.

At the age of 20, he has proven himself as an outstanding student and fashion designer. He has given extra effort in his studies whilst grabbing sidelines in making costumes, gowns, and participating in contests, the Facebook post read.

The 20-year-old Gasper is a third year student taking up BS Fashion and Textile Technology, majoring in Fashion Design. He also shared on Monday a screenshot of Miss Cameroon Angele Kossindas Instagram story where a photo of her and some of his creations can be seen.

In another post on Sunday, Gasper said Kossindas national costume was already in Hong Kong on the way to the pageant venue in the United States.

The 69th Miss Universe pageant will be held on May 17 in Florida, where South Africas Zozibini Tunzi will crown her successor.

Miss Philippines Rabiya Mateo will try her luck in capturing the countrys fifth Miss Universe crown.
(CNN)  With the coronavirus pandemic spiraling out of control in India and other developing regions, the United States this week committed to sharing 60 million doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine with other countries.

But that's a drop in the bucket.

The US has bought or contracted to buy more than 1 billion doses of coronavirus vaccines. That's enough to vaccinate the US population at least twice, with plenty left over.

Medical ethicists told CNN the US has a moral duty to share those doses with other countries. That's especially true, they said, now that the pandemic is relatively under control in the US while countries like India have been overwhelmed by the virus.

"I do believe that the US is obligated to share vaccines with other countries," said Keisha Ray, an assistant professor and bioethicist at UTHealth McGovern Medical School in Houston, "especially those countries we might consider poorer countries or what we call underdeveloped countries."

Arthur Caplan, director of the Division of Medical Ethics at NYU's Grossman School of Medicine, agreed. He said the US was "ethically obligated" to share vaccines, pointing to the "horrific death toll and hospitalization tsunami that's taking place in many countries."

"Morally," he said, "we have to help."

It's a question of when -- not if

From an ethical perspective, everyone should have access to protection from Covid-19, Kathy Kinlaw, associate director for Emory University's Center for Ethics, told CNN.

She said many countries lack vaccine access because of the "diminished purchasing power for healthcare in general, but also for Covid-19 treatments and vaccines."

"I think the United States is definitely in a position where we should be sharing, absolutely," she said. "It's a matter of timing -- I think that's one real issue here."

The US is not simply obligated to share vaccines by virtue of its resources, Ray said. Wealthier countries like the US have historically benefited by hindering other countries, she said, whether through government relations or colonialism.

"We've gone to other poorer countries, taken their resources, and we've built our wealth on the backs of their resources," she said. "And we've left them in a position that now they can't care for themselves."

"Now we are in a position to give back, we are in a position to go there and help these countries," she said, like "paying our debt."

All three agreed it was right for the US to control its virus outbreaks before sharing vaccines. The pandemic is still an issue in the US, Ray said, but conditions have improved greatly.

"When you look at the US and global distribution of vaccines, you have to first ask, is the US in a position to help other people? That means it won't be of detriment to its own people, in this case Americans," she said. "So do we have the resources to share with other countries who are really struggling with the Covid pandemic? And simply put, right now, the answer is yes."

Caplan likened it to the rule for airplane oxygen masks that flight attendants describe prior to takeoff: "Put your own mask on before you assist others."

"You need to stabilize your own nation before you assist others," he said. "And I think we're there. I think we're getting there now."

US supply is outpacing demand

One factor in deciding to release extra vaccines is the issue of supply and demand -- specifically, that the former will soon outstrip the latter in the US, Kinlaw said. And that could mean it's time to start shipping spare doses overseas, she said.

A recent report by the Kaiser Family Foundation said the country as a whole will "likely reach a tipping point on vaccine enthusiasm in the next 2 to 4 weeks."

"Once this happens," the report said, "efforts to encourage vaccination will become much harder, presenting a challenge to reaching the levels of herd immunity that are expected to be needed."

Health experts have already warned of waning demand.

One official in Ohio's Mercer County told CNN this month that officials are struggling to fill vaccine appointments. And earlier this week, Georgia officials announced they would close the state's eight remaining mass vaccination sites on May 21.

The US needs to continue to address vaccine hesitancy at home and be responsive to peoples' concerns, Kinlaw said. "But certainly there could be a point where there are people who will not take the vaccine and we have extra vaccine in this country, in which case it should be used and shared."

Data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that 30% of the US population is fully vaccinated. Experts like Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, have estimated the US needs between 70% and 85% of the country to be immune -- either through vaccination or prior infection -- to reach herd immunity.

But even without reaching that crucial threshold, the US has enough vaccines to share with other countries, experts said.

The US could have an estimated 300 million excess doses by the end of July, according to a recent Duke University report.

"The world's wealthiest nations have locked up much of the near-term supply," wrote Dr. Krishna Udayakumar and Dr. Mark McClellan, health experts at Duke. "At the current rate vaccines are being administered, 92 of the world's poorest countries won't vaccinate 60% of their populations until 2023 or later."

Ray told CNN the main issue in the US is not one of supply. It's vaccine access for poor communities, rural communities and communities of color -- particularly those that are Black and Latino -- and lingering hesitancy, largely among White and conservative populations.

"That is an education, a public outreach and an access issue," she said. "We have other hurdles that are not supply hurdles. So we do have the supply to help other countries."

Global herd immunity will benefit everyone

It's not just the right thing to do.

The US and the world stand to benefit, especially if it wants to prevent further spread of the coronavirus and the emergence of new variants, the ethicists said.

"If you don't get these hotspots under control outside the US, they're going to come back, likely with new, dangerous strains that may undermine our vaccines," Caplan said. "It's both prudent to do it and ethical to do it."

Kinlaw also emphasized the importance of herd immunity not only in the US, but globally.

"Epidemiologically, we should be working to suppress the virus and to decrease transmission and decrease the continue evolution of the virus and the variants," she said. "That is going to be beneficial to every single person."

But vaccinations everywhere could also present economic benefits, Kinlaw said, allowing people to travel more freely and conduct business around the world.

"Beyond just doing what is just, we can look at it practically," said Ray, "and we can't have a country as large as India and as important to the global economy as India not producing the goods that we have come to rely on them for."

There are plenty of questions that will also have to be addressed when the US shares vaccines, Caplan said, like, "Who goes first? What do you do within the country? Is it too late and better to send medicine rather than vaccine?"

He pointed to the need to ensure a country that receives doses from the US is distributing them fairly and to vulnerable individuals.

"One of the ethical challenges is, are we going to insist on fair distribution within those countries? Or are we just going to give them vaccine and let them give it to the military and elite?" he said.

"It sounds nice to say we're going to aid others, but its simplistic, because some governments are corrupt," he said. "Some governments have no distribution plan other than to give it first to their own leaders, rather than to those in need."

This story was first published on CNN.com "The US secured 1 billion doses of Covid-19 vaccines. Medical ethicists say it should share with other countries".
(CNN)  Bill and Melinda Gates are ending their marriage after 27 years, the pair announced in a statement on their verified Twitter accounts.

"After a great deal of thought and a lot of work on our relationship, we have made the decision to end our marriage," the statement reads.

The couple founded their philanthropic organization, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, together in 2000. Since then, the foundation has spent $53.8 billion on a wide range of initiatives related to global health, poverty alleviation and more, according to its website.

"We have raised three incredible children and built a foundation that works all over the world to enable all people to lead healthy, productive lives," the statement says. "We continue to share a belief in that mission and will continue our work together at the foundation, but we no longer believe we can grow together as a couple in this next phase of our lives."

Bill Gates is one of the richest people in the world. His net worth was $137 billion as of February, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index ranking.

Bill, 65, and Melinda Gates, 56, met at Microsoft  which Bill Gates founded and was, at the time, running as CEO. She started as a product manager as the only woman in the first class of MBA graduates to join the company, and eventually rose through the ranks to become general manager of information products.

They met shortly after she joined the company in 1987, at a business dinner in New York.

She described the encounter in her book, "The Moment of Lift:" "I showed up late, and all the tables were filled except one, which still had two empty chairs side by side. I sat in one of them. A few minutes later, Bill arrived and sat in the other."

The couple married in Hawaii in 1994.

Over the past year, the Gates, through their foundation, have been involved in the fighbt against Covid-19 and the effort to develop treatments and vaccines, and equitably distribute them around the world. As of December, the group had committed a total of $1.75 billion to the global pandemic response.

In March 2020, Bill Gates stepped down from the boards of Microsoft and Berkshire Hathaway to "dedicate more time to his philanthropic priorities," including work to tackle climate change.

Melinda Gates is also the founder of investment firm Pivotal Ventures, which confirmed the couple's separation.

"We ask for space and privacy for our family as we begin to navigate this new life," the pair said in their statement Monday.

The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation did not immediately return a request for comment from CNN Business.

This story was first published on CNN.com, "Bill and Melinda Gates are ending their marriage."
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 2)  Two lawmakers are pushing through with their group's distribution of the anti-parasitic drug ivermectin, despite criticisms and a looming investigation.

In an online forum on Sunday, Sagip Party-list Rep. Dante Marcoleta said aside from Barangay Balara in Quezon City, they would also be giving out ivermectin to residents in Barangays Commonwealth and Holy Spirit.

"Hinihingan namin ng sulat at petisyon 'yung mga kalapit na barangay tulad ng Commonwealth at Barangay Holy Spirit para sa ganon pormal 'yung paghingi nila ng ivermectin sa amin," says Marcoleta.

[Translation: We are asking for letters and petitions from nearby barangays like Commonwealth and Barangay Holy Spirit to formalize their request for ivermectin from us.]

The said barangays are some of the areas with the most number of COVID-19 cases in Quezon City. As of May 2, 2021, Brgy. Matandang Balara has recorded 1,614 cases, Brgy. Commonwealth has 2,665 cases, and Brgy. Holy Spirit with 2,123 cases.

According to Marcoleta, the request for a formal petition from the two barangays was meant to avoid accusations being thrown at their group that they are forcing residents to take the drug.

Last week, Marcoleta, along with Anakalusugan Party-list Rep. Mike Defensor, earned the ire of doctors and pharmacists after distributing ivermectin through prescriptions with no doctor's details.

Groups such as the Philippine Medical Association in a statement dated May 1, warned doctors not to prescribe the use of ivermectin outside permitted hospitals.

But Marcoleta maintained they were not breaking any laws.

"Anong guideline ang aming viniolate? Ang Constitution mismo ang viniolate ninyo. Ano po 'yung declared policy ng estado? It is the declared policy of the state to protect and promote the right to health of its people," said Marcoleta.

[Translation: What guideline did we violate? You violated the Constitution itself. What is the declared policy of the state? It is the declared policy of the state to protect and promote the right to health of its people.]

This weekend, Health Secretary Francisco Duque said studies on the efficacy of ivermectin as an anti-COVID-19 drug are still ongoing.

"There are ongoing clinical trials. I think about 20 or 30 clinical trials worldwide but as the WHO has repeatedly said and agreed upon by our technical advisory group of experts, there is no sufficient evidence as of today to show that this can actually lead to treatment or prevention of COVID infection," said Duque.

The DOH and the Food and Drug Administration will endorse to the Professional Regulation Commission reports of invalid prescriptions of ivermectin made to residents
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 3)  The Office of the Solicitor General of the Philippines suffered an alleged "data breach", making some 345,000 sensitive documents accessible to the public for at least two months, London-based security firm TurgenSec said.

According to TurgenSec, it informed the Philippine government in March, but the latter did not acknowledge its emails.

The breachwhich allowed anyone who had an internet connection to access the fileswas closed on April 28, the security firm added.

However, the company stressed "this data breach is particularly alarming as it is clear that this data is of governmental sensitivity and could impact on-going prosecutions and national security."

The breach "contained hundreds of thousands of files" of the OSG, several hundreds of which were titled with "private", "confidential", "witness", and "password", the firm said in a statement posted on its website late last week.

The documents also included sensitive topics: drug (271), abuse (123), rape (774), child (143), trafficking (135), execution (437), NICA/intelligence (10), terrorism/terrorist (30), quarantine (29), COVID (28), weapon (48), Duterte (6), Pangilinan (63), opposition (753), nuke (1), military (4).

"The nature of these documents is of particular concern as it may have the potential to disrupt/undermine on-going judicial proceedings," TurgenSec said.

"An unknown third party has this data and it is likely now in the hands of malicious actors who could do considerable damage with it if mitigation steps are not taken," it said.

Late on Monday, the OSG said while it notes the responsible disclosure procedure of TurgenSec, it shall respond appropriately only after a proper verification has been undertaken as to the accuracy and veracity of these alleged data breaches.

Finally, the OSG assures the public that all necessary steps have been put in place in order to protect the confidential and sensitive information contained in its submissions before the courts of justice, said the OSG in a statement.

Justice Secretary Menardo I. Guevarra, on the other hand, refused to provide comments when sought on Monday.

"Well reserve our comments till the OSG has done its internal investigation," he said in a mobile phone message.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 3)  The daily COVID-19 cases in Metro Manila is seen to drop from an average of 3,144 to 2,800 starting next week, the OCTA Research Group reported on Monday.

OCTA Research Fellow Ranjit Rye told CNN Philippines' The Source that COVID-19 cases will start to fall just below 3,000 by May 9 to May 15 for the capital region alone if the reproduction number stabilizes between 0.8 to 0.9 amid the prolonged modified enhanced community quarantine.

"Our projection tells us that if we work together, we will get something like 2,800 cases from May 9 to 15," Rye said, citing OCTA's Sunday report. "I would like to emphasize, that will go down slowly from now on because we are opening up a significant portion of the economy."

"The reproduction is somewhere between 0.8 and 0.9 and we need to stabilize it," he also said. "We have to make the MECQ work for this week and bring it down to below 0.8."

"If we sustain that we will have not just less cases, we will also have less overwhelmed hospitals," he added.

According to the OCTA report, the reproduction number in Metro Manila from April 25 to May 1 was last recorded at 0.83. The 3,144 average daily cases in the past seven days is 43% lower compared to the peak seven-day average of 5,551 in Metro Manila.

However, the region needs a further decrease in new COVID-19 cases to continue its recovery process, it said.

Meanwhile, hospital bed occupancy in Metro Manila decreased to 56%, while ICU bed occupancy remained at 71%, according to OCTA. Over 804 ICU beds were also occupied since the start of the surge.

But Philippine General Hospital spokesperson Jonas del Rosario told CNN Philippines' New Day that they are still 90% occupied to date.

"The last number was 226 out of the 250 beds that we have," he said. "At least we're not going overboard but our emergency room is still filling up with patients, and our ICUs are always full."

Del Rosario also said they "are managing okay" after developing a program that provides home care options for mild COVID-19 cases. However, they had to close their non-COVID wards to allow their workers to respond to COVID cases.

"We're hoping that if the numbers started going down then we can reopen some of our non-COVID operations, but we cannot afford it now," he said.

Dr. Rontgene Solante, head of the adult infectious diseases at San Lazaro Hospital, also told The Source they had a slight drop of 15% to 20% from their previous benchmark of 150 COVID cases in the past week.

Metro Manila can see a decline of less than 2,000 daily cases by June if the government, the private sector, and the people will work together to intensify testing, tracing, isolation, and treatment efforts, according to Rye.

"By end of May we'll most likely have less than 2,000, meeting the numbers before we had this terrible, terrible surge," he added.

Rye added: "If we work together, we follow the minimum public standard, we can sustain the downward trend."

Health Undersecretary and Spokesperson Maria Rosario Vergeire said that while they can see a downward trend in hospital admissions, they have yet to find out whether the trend will sustain in the coming weeks.

"Nakakakita na tayo ng downward trend sa admissions at pagluwag sa mga ospital, but these are not significant yet..." she said. "Tingnan natin in the coming weeks kung patuloy na bababa, pati ang hospital capacity ay magkaroon na ng pagluwag, para masabi natin that we are on to the direction on having this decline in the number of cases."

[Translation: We are already seeing a downward trend in admissions, as well as hospitals getting a little more spacious, but these are not significant yet....We still need to monitor in the coming weeks if the downtrend will continue, including the easing of hospital capacity so we can truly tell that we are on to the direction of having this decline in the number of cases.]

Metro Manila and the nearby provinces of Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal are currently under an extended, but a more "flexible" MECQ until May 14, allowing more services such as dine-ins and personal care to operate at a lesser capacity.

On Sunday, the Philippines logged 8,346 new COVID-19 infections, bringing the nationwide tally to 1,054,983. The death toll has reached 17,431 while the number of survivors has increased to 966,080.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 3)  Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra on Monday said he will refer the probe into the killing of John Heredia  formerly national director of the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines -- to a presidential task force.

Considering that John Heredia was a journalist, I will refer his case to the Presidential Task Force on Media Security for investigation and case build-up, said Guevarra when asked if he will recommend that the Inter-Agency Committee created under Administrative Order No. 35 look into the incident. The IAC was created in 2012 to monitor and ensure the speedy resolution of extra judicial killings, enforced or involuntary disappearances, torture, and other grave violations of the right to life, liberty and security of persons.

Heredia, 54, was shot by motorcycle-riding gunmen on Sunday at 2 p.m. in Brgy. Lawaan, Roxas City, human rights organization KARAPATAN said yesterday evening. He was rushed to Capiz Doctors Hospital but was declared dead on arrival.

"According to reports and accounts of witnesses, one of the perpetrators wore a gray hooded jacket and about 53-54 in height," read KARAPATAN's update. "The still unidentified assailant along with a companion sped off aboard a red Bajaj model motorcycle."

Heredia was also a visual artist, musician and founding member of the band Tingog ni Nanay, according to the group.

Heredias wife, human rights lawyer Atty. Criselda Heredia, previously survived an ambush with their daughter and client on board her vehicle on September 23, 2019 in Panit-an, Capiz, it added.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 3)  President Rodrigo Duterte is expected to decide on the next chief of the Philippine National Police this week, as general Debold Sinas retires on May 8.

"We expect na within the next few days ay magkakaroon ng anunsiyo ang ating Pangulo kung sino ang kanyang pipiliin... may karapatan ang ating Pangulo na pumili from any of the star rank of the Philippine National Police," Department of Interior and Local Government Undersecretary Jonathan Malaya said in a virtual briefing Monday.

[Translation: We expect that within the next few days our President will have an announcement on who he will choose... the President has the prerogative to choose from any of the officers of the Philippine National Police with star ranks.]

According to Malaya, DILG Secretary Eduardo Ano forwarded to Duterte last week his list of officers recommended for the PNP chief post.

Ano did not disclose who he recommended to the President.

"I would expect that the President would choose the next National Police chief on the basis of seniority, on the basis of merit, on the basis of experience as a police general," Malaya said.

Duterte in November appointed Sinas as the new head of the PNP.

RELATED: Sinas, 18 Metro Manila cops charged for birthday feast

Sinas faced criticisms for holding a birthday party, or "mananita", in the midst of the strictest quarantine restrictions at the time due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 3)  On World Press Freedom Day, President Rodrigo Duterte said his government will remain committed to protecting journalists rights, as a local media group called attention to continued attacks on reporters.

"Let me assure everyone that this administration will remain committed in promoting press freedom as a vital component and indicator of progress anywhere in the world, Duterte said in a statement on Monday.

Ensuring a free press, the President added, is a public good and is indispensable to democracy.

"Cognizant of the ever-changing communication system these days, may the mass media also uphold fairness and transparency while also making a positive impact on the peoples lives," he continued.

The Philippines fell two places in the World Press Freedom Index this year, ranking 138th among 180 countries. This marked the fourth year in a row that its spot dropped in the list after placing 136th in 2020, 134th in 2019, and 133rd in 2018.

In a statement, the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines said there have been 51 documented cases of attacks on journalists during the Duterte administration. Of this number, it said 30 involved red-tagging and 22 incidents happened during the COVID-19 pandemic which began early last year.

The group said the attacks include killings and attempts, intimidation, threats of libel, arrests, online harassment, verbal and physical assault, and barring reporters from coverage, among others. On May 2, former NUJP Capiz chair John Heredia was shot dead by motorcycle-riding gunmen at Brgy. Lawa-an, Roxas City. Police are currently investigating the incident.

The practice of labeling activists, government critics and journalists as enemies of the state has also gone beyond harassment and intimidation, the NUJP added.

It specified the passage of the controversial Anti-Terror Act, which it called a a threat to many civil liberties, including the freedom of expression and the freedom of the press.

Irked by a report on the affidavit of two Aetas charged under the anti-terror law, National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict spokesperson Lt. General Antonio Parlade threatened to sue the journalist for 'aiding the terrorist by spreading lies, the group said. Section 12 of the law punishes providing material support to terrorists with up to life imprisonment.

NUJP also cited the shutdown of media giant ABS-CBN last year, as well as the cases against Rappler which have continued to mount.

The Palace earlier disagreed that the issues surrounding the two media outlets merit the Philippines lower ranking in the World Press Freedom Index, saying these are not related to media freedom.

But even if we mark World Press Freedom Day with many reasons to be fearful, we mark it also with hope, knowing that there are many of us still working each day to gather facts and shine a little light on what is happening in the country and what isn't, the NUJP said. We mark World Press Freedom Day with the challenge to be free and to insist on being free.
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May 3, 2021 (2021-05-03)

(Reposted from sources cited below) Editor's Note Broad early modern comparative projects often fail to address Africa at all. A search of the MLAIB [Modern Language Association International Bibliography] finds that the number of pieces published in the last thirty years on the subject of 'globalization' is in the thousands, and yet only 5 per cent of them address Africa or African countries. When it comes to eighteenth-century studies, the exclusion is total: not one of the pieces on globalization addresses Africa or African countries. Not one.  This is more than unfortunate. No arena of study can be successful that has Africa as a lacuna.   Wendy Laura Belcher The systemic character of the global marginalization of Africa is a theme which appears often in AfricaFocus Bulletin, most often in relation to current issues of economic inequality, vulnerability to global crises, and the continued dominance of global governance by a minority of rich countries. That reality, however, is also deeply rooted in ingrained biases in cultural production and scholarship, where the challenge to Eurocentrism is in many cases only beginning to gain momentum. That is why I am very pleased that AfricaFocus reader and comparative literature scholar Wendy Belcher consented to have Africafocus present a condensed version of her recently published essay in a scholarly journal on 18th century fiction, a location where few would expect to find a focus on literature in African languages. The topic of the importance of African-language literature is not new, of course. Nor is the evidence of marginalization by global opinion-makers. Ngugi wa Thiong'o, who has repeatedly been among the leading contenders for the Nobel Prize in literature, has long been a passionate advocate of writing in African languages and has set an example himself with his own works. In the 120 years since the prize began, only a handful of African writers have won that prize. In the 1980s there were two (Nigerian Wole Soyinka and Egyptian Naguib Mahfouz) and in the last thirty years only two, both white South Africans (Nadine Gordimer and J. M. Coetzee). Literary scholar Mukoma wa Ngugi's The Rise of the African Novel: Politics of Language, Identity, and Ownership, published in 2018, critically analyzes use of African languages versus English by African writers over the period since the late 19th century. But, notes Belcher, there is still only minimal scholarship devoted to African-language literature from before the mid-19th century. Partly this is based on the erroneous assumptions that there was little written in African languages before that time. But, Belcher notes, there are literally thousands of works written in African languages before that period, without even counting the many more written in Africa by Africans in Arabic over many centuries. The much-shortened version below was condensed from the orignal by AfricaFocus Bulletin and the author. Original article with footnotes, figures, and full text, is available at https://oar.princeton.edu/handle/88435/pr13j84. Citation to the original article should be given as Belcher, Wendy Laura. (2021). "Reflections. Are We Global Yet? Africa and the Future of Early Modern Studies", Eighteenth-Century Fiction, 33(3):413-446. https://doi.org/10.3138/ecf.33.3.413.] For previous AfricaFocus Bulletins on culture, education, and the media, visit http://www.africafocus.org/cultexp.php Of particular interest in relation to the Bulletin's topic today is http://www.africafocus.org/docs15/moz1509.php, in which Jacques Depelchin cites an ancient Egyptian poem called The Eloquent Peasant in relation to today's issues of speaking out against injustice. ++++++++++++++++++++++end editor's note+++++++++++++++++ African Language Literature and the Future of Early Modern Studies Wendy Laura Belcher Wendy Laura Belcher is Professor of African literature with a joint appointment in the Princeton University Department of Comparative Literature and the Department for African American Studies. Abstract Research on early (pre-1850) African-language literatures has declined since 2003 or has continued to flatline at nothing. A radical antiracist solution is needed, for no field can succeed with Africa as a lacuna. I call on all early modern scholars, regardless of their language knowledge, to cite at least one early modern African language text in their next publication. I describe five such in this article, a tiny sample of the thousands of written texts that Black Africans across the continent composed in African languages before 1830. Asking early modern scholars to embrace the uncomfortable practice of token citation will enable these texts to circulate in the realm of knowledge and further efforts to diversify and broaden the field. Has the field of early modern studies become more attentive to the people and places outside of Europe and has it done so in productive ways? Further, have we attended to Africa specifically? And what does attention to Africa offer to eighteenth-century studies as a whole and for its future? I argue that we have seen an impressive increase in literary scholarship on non-European texts, but that research on African-language literatures has remained abysmal. As a part of broadening early modern studies, I describe five vital early modern African texts and propose the uncomfortable practice of their token citation to seed the field with possibilities for a more inclusive future. While acknowledging the following terms limited and problematic nature, I use (to avoid lengthy phrases for period and place) early modern and the eighteenth century as interchangeable for the period from the late 1600s through the early 1800s CE (that is, as describing a set of years not asynchronous temporalities); global for the whole world and its relationships; we for all living scholars of this period, regardless of nationality; Africa for all the complexities of the whole continent (and not just sub- Saharan Africa); and Africans as shorthand for all the Indigenous Black peoples of the continent and the genius of their thousands of languages and cultures. Broad early modern comparative projects often fail to address Africa at all. A search of the MLAIB finds that the number of pieces published in the last thirty years on the subject of globalization is in the thousands, and yet only 5 per cent of them address Africa or African countries. When it comes to eighteenth-century studies, the exclusion is total: not one of the pieces on globalization addresses Africa or African countries. Not one. That is, many scholars discuss the globe and manage never to mention Africa, a fifth of the worlds land mass and population. This is precisely why academics use of the term global has been so widely castigated. As Gayatri Spivak lamented in 2003, for comparative literature Africa does not exist at all. This is more than unfortunate. No arena of study can be successful that has Africa as a lacuna. Research on so-called minor languages of the early modern period is slim and citation of them is slimmer. This is not for any lack of warning Mauritian scholar and former American Comparative Literature Association (ACLA) president Francoise Lionnet fired across the bow of literary studies in 2013, arguing that the MLA needed to rise to the challenge of language diversity and rise above readers lack of linguistic or cultural competence and their inability to recognize exogamous influences. Unfortunately, literary scholarship has remained focused predominantly on literatures in English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, and Russian. In an article also using MLAIB as a source, three scholars show that scholarship on minor European language literatures has been declining every decade since the 1970s. This lamentable trend is doubly true for African-language literatures. Depressingly, research on them has declined since 2003 or remained flatlined at zeroeven though many of these languages are not remotely minor. Over a dozen African languages have between 10 million and 100 million native speakers each and have attested early modern writing, including West African languages (Fulah, Fulfude, Hausa, Yoruba, and Igbo); East African languages (Swahili, Ge`ez, Amharic, and Somali); southern African languages (Zulu and Xhosa); North African languages (like Tamazight); and Malagasy. Given the expanding population in Africa, none of these languages with tens of millions of speakers is disappearing any time soon; most have vibrant print cultures today. Despite the richness of these early modern literary cultures, the MLA African literature forums, set up by scholars of African literature, reflect the general assumption of the field itself that no written early African literature exists, being divided into Pre-1990 and Post-1990. That is, the field pairs a forum on thirty years of literature with a forum on thirty centuries of literature. In terms of numbers of scholars, this division is not wrongthe pre-1990 forum is not very populated, with the few scholars in it focusing almost entirely on the 1950s and 1960sbut, in terms of texts, it represents a failure of the field of African literary studies. Further, few scholars focus on Afrophone literatures, which remain a neglected component not only of comparative literature, postcolonial studies, and world literature, but also of African literary studies at large. I am not offering this critique at some remove. The fact of early African-language written literature came as a shock to me when I began to study the issue about twenty years ago, even though I, a white American woman, had grown up in Ethiopia and Ghana and should have known better. To overcome my own biases, I decided to assume that all African languages have always been written. Assuming such is the only way to overcome a predisposition not to see Africa as the home of writing. (As an aside, I think the primary reason we believe this myth is because libraries, not writing, were rare in Africa. Centuries of the slave trade and colonialism extracted the local wealth required for the mechanisms of preservationarchives. That is why relying entirely on the availability of written documents to trace the beginnings of a writing tradition in African languages will get you nowhere fast.) For me, this assumption about presence not absence has yielded many findings. I continue to find more and more written texts in more and more African languages. Others have assumed it fruitfully as well: Mariana Candidos research on Angolan slave ports is a terrific example of the ground-breaking scholarship that can happen when a scholar assumes there are early African primary sources and does not stop until she finds them. Early Modern Studies Needs to Cite African-Language Written Literature To solve this lack, I demand that all early modern scholars, regardless of their language knowledge, cite at least one early modern African-language written text in their next publication. A scholarly paragraph about one of these texts would be splendid, but a sentence or even a footnote would be great. If twenty early modern scholars cited one of these texts in their next publication, we would take an important step toward broadening the future of early modern studies. I will address possible objections to such token citation later; for now, let me explain how you could actually do this. One way to cite early modern African-language texts is time consuming: actually reading and studying them. Excellent work has been done translating and anthologizing early writing by Africans in African languages. To name a few here, consider Jan Knapperts Four Centuries of Swahili Verse; Albert S. Gerards Four African Literatures: Xhosa, Sotho, Zulu, Amharic; B. W. Andrzejewski, Stanislaw Pilaszewicz, and Witold Tylochs Literatures in African Languages: Theoretical Issues and Sample Surveys; Karin Barber and Stephan F. Mieschers Africas Hidden Histories: Everyday Literacy and Making the Self; Abena Busias extraordinary four volume Women Writing Africa from the Feminist Press; and any number of works from Markus Weiner Publishers, including John F. P. Hopkins and Nehemia Levtzions Land of Enchanters: Egyptian Short Stories from the Earliest Times to the Present Day. The easier way, but still radically helpful, is to cite one of the five African-language texts which I will now introduce, all of which have English translations. While thousands of unique, early modern African language written texts exist, almost none have English translations. (And yes, this essay is against the move by some comparatists to quarantine works in translationthey are not a disease but a gateway, however limited, to what the theorist of translation Lawrence Venuti calls the utopia of connection.) Let me repeat this point, so it is clearthese five are not the only extant early African-language written texts. There are thousands. I have selected these five from among those thousands as a tiny sample of what Black Africans across the continent have written in African languages before 1830. This sampledrastically limited by what is available in Englishis importantly specific (texts from specific districts and authors), evading the trap of representing Africa as if it were a whole.  In case it is unclear how easy citing these texts can be, here are two invented examples using the first text below. (Yes, the first text I recommend is a co- translation that I did; but I chose to translate it precisely because, out of thousands of possible texts, I thought it could do the most to persuade people of the value of early African literature.) One possibility might be having a sentence like this in your next article: Female religious leadership in the eighteenth century is not, of course, a solely English phenomenon, as demonstrated by the African-language biography of 1672 about the Ethiopian Orthodox abbess Walatta Petros (Galawdewos). Or, perhaps, Queer identities in a range of European and non-European eighteenth- century texts is a burgeoning area of scholarship; for instance, see work on the Ethiopian Orthodox abbess Walatta Petros (Galawdewos). Adding seventy words, as each of these examples would do (including the citation), will not always be possible. Yet I urge you to consider it. By doing so, you will prove that these texts exist and provide a paper trail for another scholar. Most of what I know about early African literature I found out by following up on a footnote. The aim of my edict is to ensure that these texts circulate in the realm of collective knowledge. Ge`ez: The Life of Walatta-Petros The first early modern African-language written text I recommend for citation is the Gadla Walatta Petros. An Ethiopian monk named Galawdewos (fl. 1670s) wrote it in the African language of Ge`ez (classical Ethiopic) in 1672. The translation of it into English came out in 2015, and the student edition came out in late 2018. This extraordinary book is about an Ethiopian womana female religious leader and monastic founder with hundreds of followers, both men and women. She was an early anticolonial resister, refusing to convert to Catholicism when the Jesuits came to Ethiopia in the 1600s. She also had a life-long female partner, and the text contains an anecdote about nuns being lustful with each other. The text is a masterpiece of Ge`ez literature, which has thousands of original creations written from the 1300s into the 1900s (this biography is only one of over a hundred early book-length biographies that Ethiopians wrote in Ge`ez). This book includes fascinating human animal encounters, beautiful embodied poems, and a radical theology. The translation does not assume the reader has any knowledge of Ethiopia or Ge`ez and provides a robust contextual framework to help readers cite it or teach it: thousands of substantive and philological notes and a massive glossary of people, places, rituals, and things. Instructors are teaching it to great effect in medieval courses, early modern history and literature courses, and gender and sexuality studies courses. If you want to do more than token citation, check out the excellent work on early modern Ge`ez literature done by a range of Ethiopian scholars, most of all the prolific MacArthur Fellowship winner Getatchew Haile. You may also consult the massive encyclopedic and cataloging projects for Ge`ez. Good scholarship has also been done on other written languages of Ethiopia, including Amharic, Tigrinya, and Oromo, although with little surviving written literature until the late 1800s. Tamazight: Ocean of Tears The second early modern African-language written text to cite is Ocean of Tears (Bahr ad-Dumu), a book written in what many call Berber, but which speakers prefer to call Tamazight, an Indigenous African language common in North Africa. The author Muuammad Ibn Ali Awzal (ca. 16801749), who lived in what is now Morocco, wrote the book in 1714. A fascinating figure in his own right, he fled the town where he grew up after accidentally killing a man, became a religious scholar, returned to his town (where the family of the man he killed forgave him), and lived his life there as a teacher and author. He is the most important author of the Sous Tamazi?t literary tradition, which constitutes the several thousand Indigenous Moroccan scholars writing between the tenth and nineteenth centuries. ... Scholars can read the book in English or French translation. The research in both is outstanding, and the translations are very erudite, although the awkwardness of the English is occasionally painful for native speakers. Nevertheless, the translation provides a full understanding of its themes and concerns, making it citable. If you want to do more than token citation, check out the excellent work on early modern Tamazight literature by a range of North African scholars, including Salem Chaker, Lamara Bougchiche, Mohand Akli Haddadou, and Abdellah Bounfour, as well as the prolific Paulette Galand-Pernet, Daniela Merolla, and Maarten Kossmann; you may also consult the extensive Encyclopedie Berbere. Hausa and Fula: Sufi Women The third early modern African-language written text to cite is any of the poems by Nana Asma'u bint Shehu Usman dan Fodiyo (ca. 17931864), a fascinating and influential woman who was a scholar, teacher, and poet of West African Sufi Islam. She was not a minor figure in her land, but a revered woman whose authorial name is still mentioned along with male authors. She wrote in the Indigenous languages of Fula (her first language) and Hausa as well as Arabic. As many African intellectuals have for centuries, she used Arabic script, or ajami, to write these languages, much as many African languages now use the Latin script. Hundreds of thousands of manuscripts in ajami are extant in West African archives, and yet the history of these books, their libraries, and the manuscript culture of early African Muslims have only begun to be studied in the Euro-American academy with any depth. For such archives to inform the collective understanding of literature scholars globally, we need to recognize the crucial abilities of multilingual scholars, those who are able to read Arabic script, to understand the African language of the text deeply, and to communicate their findings for publication in widely read language. And we must enable more Indigenous scholars to publish their research. If you want to do more than token citation, check out the excellent work on early modern ajami literature done by a range of African scholars, including the indefatigable Fallou Ngom, as well as Souleymane Bachir Diagne, Shamil Jeppie, Ibrahima Diallo, and Ousmane Kane. Consult Ousseina Alidou and others on early written Hausa literature specifically. Swahili: Song of Liyongo The fourth early modern African-language written text to cite is Takhimisa ya Liyongo, a long praise poem written in Swahili by Sayyid Abdallah bin Nassir (ca. 17301820) in 1750. Swahili is rich in praise poems, a dominant genre across West and East Africa; as well as in epic written poems, such as Utendi wa Tambuka (1728), about the ancient wars between the descendants of Mohammed and Byzantine Christians; and didactic poems, such as Utendi wa Mwana Kupona (1858), a mothers instructions to her daughter. Takhimisa ya Liyongo is about the great early modern poet- warrior trickster of legend named Fumo Liyongo, who likely lived in the 1200s. This epic figure lived largedancing, drinking, fighting; he was eventually killed by his own son. Liyongo was the firstborn of his kingly father, and enormously popular, so the second son, wishing to eliminate him as a threat, imprisoned him. Liyongo escaped, but his son, for the reward, killed him with a copper nail, the only object capable of taking his life. In the poem that Nassir wrote about Liyongo, based on earlier folk-tales, both the protagonist and the antagonist practice deception, which Joseph Mbele has argued is the poems sophisticated critique of heroism itself, and any supposed gap between heroes and villains. Of all African-language literatures, that in Swahili has received the most published attention, with no little focus on its early written literature, going back as far as the 1600s, so I mention it only briefly here. If you want to do more than token citation, see the excellent work by a range of East African scholars, among them M.M. Mulokozi, Mohamed H. Abdulaziz, Euphrase Kezilahabi, Ibrahim Noor Shariff, Alamin Mazrui, and Joseph Mbele. Nsibidi: Men and Women The fifth early modern African-language written text to cite is any of the stories translated from Nsibidi. Nsibidi is a written system, an ideographic script, elaborated by the Efik people of Nigeria in the 1770s for their secret society, but with symbols in it found on pottery dating to a thousand years earlier. Although sometimes dismissed as merely representational, Nsibidi is far richer than that, a type of what one scholar has called a vast, deep-time, curated supply of symbols. Only members who have been trained to read Nsibidi can understand its texts, which are used to narrate events, such as court cases and love affairs. Enslaved people in the Americas used this language to communicate, so it is particularly vital that Americanists be aware of it. Nsibidi is a secret language protected by its peoples and therefore access to its stories is rightly limited. No historical, political, or legal texts have been translated from it; rather, those seen as frivolous, and therefore not in need of protection from prying eyes, have been. If you want to do more than token citation, see the excellent work on Nsibidi done by African scholars, including Basil Amaeshi, Ekpo Eyo, Olu Kalu, and Maik Nwosu, and the interpretive work of the modern Nigerian artists Victor Ekpuk and Chike C. Aniakor. If you are interested in teaching about it and other African writing systems, consult the online exhibit Inscribing Meaning by the Fowler Museum and the National Museum of African Art. Anticipating Objections Some people will want to dismiss these five examples of written African texts. For them, they will not be African enough, not literary enough, not early enough, not enough enough. So let me remind such readers that most literatures are not enough in the same ways. The history of writing in most regions is not local, for instance. European texts were written in the foreign language of Latin (unless written by Italians, for whom it was native) into the 1800s. Likewise, many African texts were written in the foreign language of Arabic, with few written vernaculars. Yet no one says that European texts are not European because they were written in Latin. Just so, no one should say that African texts are not African because they were written in Arabic. Nor should anyone say that because a text was written in North Africa or East Africa, that they are not African. Their bracketing arises from the racist assumption that Africa is a place without writing and history, and that therefore anywhere with writing and history cannot be Africa. The history of writing in most regions is not early either. Almost no vernaculars were written until quite late in human history. Most European languages were not written until the 1500s CE. By contrast, Egyptian languages had written texts by 2,600 BCE, two thousand years before the Greeks arrived to civilize Egypt. Tamazight language inscriptions appear across North Africa and West Africa by the 1000s BCE. Sudan and Ethiopia had written languages by the 100s BCE. By contrast, even the major European languages appeared much later: the first English, Spanish, and Portuguese written texts are from the 700s, 1200s, and 1500s CE respectively. A more serious critique of the citation practice I am recommending is that it is mere tokenism, a glib attempt to be inclusive without fully recognizing or engaging the bodies of work ostensibly included (or the ethics of translating Indigenous language texts into colonizers languages). Yet, token citation is the very definition of a heuristic techniquebeing both imperfect and yet usefuland is a practical way of making a vital strike at the Eurocentric foci of US scholarship while destabilizing the canon and helping literary studies support decolonization. Yes, real inclusionand recentering of scholarly focusrequires more than such gestures. But absent radical transformation, doing nothing is not the solution. As the famous Amharic proverb goes, "slowly, slowly, the egg goes by its legs;" (that is, incremental change is the basis for large change). As one example of its practicality, token citation can keep alive for future scholars that which is not valued in the present. Take the scholarship on Olaudah Equiano, a luminary of the eighteenth century who had faded almost entirely from cultural awareness in the nineteenth century but for the work of a handful of African American scholars. A single descriptive sentence in 1913 in a brief article by no less a figure than W.E.B. Du Bois reintroduced Equiano after a century of general neglect and enabled Equianos star to rise again.(Yet another case of African American scholars, through the critical language and theoretical approaches they developed, bringing to light the overlooked contributions of African writers.) In the same way, token citing of early modern African-language written texts would be an important seeding of the field. Such practical methods, while they do not in and of themselves solve the problems of a fields systemic exclusions, can help to make more long-term changes possible.  Early Modern Studies Action Items I have suggested one way to improve the future of early modern studiesby encouraging readers to cite early African language literature, not only to improve their own citational practice, but crucially to seed the field with the necessary references that will enable future scholarship to attend more fully to the disproportionately neglected archives of early African literatures and counteract the limiting Eurocentrism of early modern studies. It is my sincere hope that one hundred years from now, someone will cite this article as an example of how farcically limited early scholarship on written African literature was, and will chastise me for standing on the edge of its vastness and seeing so little. Yes, token citation may invite sanction. Especially if you are white, it may feel safer to say nothing than to do something so clearly insufficient in the face of such severe inequities. But a difficult truth of our time is that you can be cowardly correct (adhering to familiar ways of exercising your expertise and protecting yourself while doing nothing to improve the conditions of academic knowledge work), or you can bravely risk your status to do something, however contingent or small. AfricaFocus Bulletin is an independent electronic publication providing reposted commentary and analysis on African issues, with a particular focus on U.S. and international policies. AfricaFocus Bulletin is edited by William Minter. For an archive of previous Bulletins, see http://www.africafocus.org, Current links to books on AfricaFocus go to the non-profit bookshop.org, which supports independent bookshores and also provides commissions to affiliates such as AfricaFocus. AfricaFocus Bulletin can be reached at africafocus@igc.org. Please write to this address to suggest material for inclusion. For more information about reposted material, please contact directly the original source mentioned. To subscribe to receive future bulletins by email, click here.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 3)  The planned clinical trial of the antiparasitic drug ivermectin for treatment of mild COVID-19 may be completed by early 2022, a government official said Monday.

Dr. Jaime Montoya, chief of the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (DOST-PCHRD), said that while the clinical trial itself may be concluded before the end of the year, the research team still needs to examine all the information collected during the study.

"Pag-aaralan pa ang mga datos. Ito ay malamang lalabas sa first quarter of next year, mga January," he said in a virtual briefing.

[Translation: The data have to be studied further. The result may be released by the first quarter of next year, around January.]

Dr. Montoya, however, noted that this may be shortened if recruiting patients would be cut to four or five months, from the initial target of six months.

READ: DOST eyes ivermectin trial in NCR quarantine facilities by May

Earlier, he said over 1,200 mild to moderate COVID-19 patients who are undergoing isolation in quarantine facilities may participate in the trial.

The official said the DOST is eyeing to recruit patients from quarantine facilities of the Philippine Red Cross.

Dr. Montoya previously said a clinical trial, which was personally ordered by President Rodrigo Duterte, is necessary since there is still no sufficient proof that ivermectin is effective in treating patients with mild to moderate symptoms.

RELATED: Results still inconclusive on ivermectin use on COVID-19 patients  doctors' groups

READ: DOH seeks PRC probe on 'invalid' ivermectin prescriptions in QC event

Experts, including those from the World Health Organization, have repeatedly emphasized there is not enough proof ivermectin can be used to treat or prevent COVID-19. They also warned high doses could cause brain damage in humans, or even death.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 4) - President Rodrigo Duterte emphasized on Monday he never promised to retake the West Philippine Sea from China when he sought the countrys top post in 2016.

I, never in my campaign as president, promised the people that I would retake the West Philippine Sea. I did not promise that I would pressure China, Duterte said during his weekly national address. I never mentioned about China and the Philippines in my campaign because that was a very serious matter.

The Presidents statement was contrary to his controversial remark during the 2016 elections, where he said he would ride a jet ski to plant a Philippine flag on man-made islands occupied by China.

During the CNN Philippines Town Hall meeting in February 2016, Duterte mentioned he would stop the expansion of China in the West Philippine Sea.

If I will be in the presidency for two years, walang nangyayari (and if theres nothing happening), China keeps on expanding, I will tell them you better stop them because that is ours, he said.

Days before he assumed the presidency in June 2016, Duterte stated he would not surrender the country's rights over the disputed Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea.

In his latest national address on Monday, Duterte stressed that Beijing remains the countrys benefactor.

Just because we have a conflict with China doesn't mean we have to be rude and disrespectful. As a matter of fact, we have many things to thank China for the help in the past and itong mga tulong nila ngayon (their help now), the President said.

Duterte was referring to Beijings involvement in some of the administrations Build, Build, Build infrastructure projects and Manilas COVID-19 pandemic response, such as the provision of test kits and Chinese-made COVID-19 vaccines, which comprise the largest bulk of the countrys present vaccine supply.

In his speech, Duterte appealed to China to let Filipino fishermen fish in peace in the disputed waters.

Kindly let our fishermen to fish in peace. There is no reason for trouble. If there is one brewing, we can talk immediately to solve the problem, he said.

Duterte also took the opportunity to call out again former Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario and former Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonio Carpio, whom he claimed were the ones who handed over the West Philippine Sea to China. He particularly mentioned the Panatag Shoal standoff in 2012, when a Philippine Navy surveillance ship first spotted a group of Chinese fishing vessels in the area.

Our armed forces were ready to die for the country. Kayong mga walang b****, nasa opisina at puro papel ang hinahawakan (While you two who dont have any balls, youre just in the office and just handling papers), said Duterte.

Dutertes remark was an apparent reaction to Del Rosarios open letter made public on Sunday where he highlighted the importance of asserting the countrys sovereign rights in the West Philippine Sea.

Manila won a landmark arbitral case against Beijing in 2016, which invalidated the Asian giants claims in the South China Sea that included islands and territories within the Philippines 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone
(CNN)  German police have arrested three people in connection with one of the world's largest platforms containing child sex abuse materials, prosecutors said Monday.

A fourth person was arrested in Paraguay, according to Interpol.

The online platform, which was known as Boystown and was hosted on the dark web, had 400,000 registered users when it was taken offline by an international taskforce.

The global team, spearheaded by the German Federal Criminal Police  the Bundeskriminalamt (BKA)  included the European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation (Europol) and law enforcement agencies from the Netherlands, Sweden, Australia, Canada and the United States.

Police arrested three main suspects accused of operating and maintaining the Boystown platform during raids on seven properties in mid-April, Reuters reported.

All of the suspects are male German nationals, according to Europol, who said on Monday that a 40-year old man was arrested in the west German city of Paderborn, a 49-year-old man was arrested in Munich and a 58-year-old man was arrested in Paraguay.

A fourth suspect, a 64-year-old man from Hamburg, was arrested on suspicion of being one of the site's most active users, having registered as a member of the platform in July 2019 and posted more than 3,500 times.

Europol also said on Monday that several other chat sites used by perpetrators of child sexual abuse had been seized on the same occasion.

This story was first published on CNN.com, "German police bust child sex abuse imagery network with 400,000 users."
(CNN)  Since this year began, one third of all people who've died in Brazil were victims of COVID-19.

According to data from Brazil's National Civil Registry, 615,329 deaths were reported in the country between January 1 and April 30. Of those, 208,370 were related to COVID-19, according to Brazil's health ministry -- 33.9% of the nation's total.

The coronavirus has surged with a vengeance in the South American giant in recent months -- fueled in part by a disregard for social distancing precautions and the emergence of extra-contagious new variants -- and has claimed more lives in the past four months than in all of 2020. More than 78,000 people in Brazil were killed by the virus last month alone.

Meanwhile, despite Brazil's robust immunization program, its rollout of COVID-19 vaccines has been slow, dogged by supply shortages and delays in the early days of deal-making with global pharmaceutical companies. So far, less than 10% of the population has been vaccinated.

While the government of Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro has been loath to impose restrictions on movement or economic activity, local lockdown measures imposed by state governors and city mayors in March and April are working to slow the pandemic's recent resurgence. The daily death rate has fallen from its peak of more than 4,000 in April to about 2,100.

But as local authorities reopen the economy, urged on by Bolsonaro, Brazilian scientists warn of a new surge of cases and deaths this summer.

Since the pandemic began, Brazil has racked up one of the highest absolute COVID-19 death tolls in the world, second only to the United States, where COVID-19 was the third leading cause of death last year. Relative to its population of roughly 211 million, the scale of Brazil's COVID-19 deaths is even starker: Brazil has suffered 193 Covid-19 deaths for every 100,000 people since the pandemic began -- higher than the United States' 176 deaths per 100,000 people, and 16 deaths per 100,000 people in India, where the virus is currently raging out of control.

When Brazil surpassed 400,000 COVID-19 deaths April 29, Bolsonaro commented briefly on the situation.

"We are sorry for the deaths. (The pandemic) reached a huge number of deaths here, right?" he said in a weekly live broadcast on his social media. The President has faced fierce domestic and international criticism for his reluctant response to the pandemic, and is currently under investigation by the Senate.

Brazilian Health Minister Marcelo Queiroga said Monday he expects to sign a deal soon for 100 million Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine doses, and that the majority of Brazilians should be immunized by the end of the year.

But for now, Brazil continues to lag behind fellow South American countries such as Chile and Uruguay, which increasingly see their neighbor as a epidemiological threat.

This story was first published on CNN.com, "COVID-19 caused one in three deaths in Brazil so far this year."
Four-time Pittsburgh Steelers Super Bowl champion and decorated Vietnam War veteran Rocky Bleier will be the guest speaker at this years Carlisle Memorial Day ceremony on May 31.

Carlisle Joint Veterans Council president Kirk Wilson said the ceremony will begin at 10 a.m. at the Soldiers Walk at the U.S. Army Heritage & Education Center, at 950 Soldiers Drive, Carlisle. The event was moved away from the Square in Carlisle to meet COVID-19 safety requirements.

The council would like to thank AHEC officials for opening their arms and welcoming the community to observe Memorial Day there, Wilson said. Masks will be required and there is plenty of room to practice 6-foot distancing.

Bleier is one of the most beloved Pittsburgh Steelers icons, having played 12 seasons with the team as a running back best known for his work in tandem with Franco Harris.

Bleier was drafted 417th overall in the 1968 draft and played in only 10 games before being drafted by the U.S. Army to fight in the Vietnam War.

While on patrol, Bleier and his fellow soldiers were ambushed. Bleier got shot in the right leg and his right was hit with shrapnel from a grenade. Doctors did not think he would be able to return to the NFL, he said during an interview Thursday.

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Gossert is seeking re-election for his Hampden seat on the school board, and was the only candidate from his race present at the town hall. Gossert found himself peppered with repeated questions about CV teaching critical race theory or any of the BLM ideas, as one audience member put it. Another said that CV replacing one of its U.S. history electives with another on the Black civil rights movement risked getting rid of American history.

While Gossert may not have seen himself as the headline candidate, the audiences questions certainly indicated that political concerns with school curricula and culture stand prominently in the mind of the GOP voter base.

Gossert was pressed with concerns that schools would teach acceptance of the Black Lives Matter movement as well as critical race theory, a loosely-defined academic discipline that centers around the idea of race as a sociological construct, and which is the subject of much negative attention in conservative media.

Gossert said he would not be supportive of teaching such materials in CV schools, but said there is no push to incorporate lessons that included aspects of critical race theory, although several audience members indicated they were certain that state or federal mandates to teach such material would be forthcoming under Democratic administrations.
by Vladimir Rozanskij

An Islamic court settled a dispute between Ingushetia and Dagestan. Clash between Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan over the Golovnoy water intake facility leaves scores of people dead and wounded.

Moscow (AsiaNews)  The month of Ramadan (mid-April to mid-May this year) should induce the Muslim faithful to be thoughtful and show mutual respect. Instead, disagreements and disputes over borders are multiplying among Muslims majority ethnic groups who have lived for centuries in the lands of the former Soviet Union in Europe and Asia.

Within the Russian Federation, Ingushetia and Dagestan had a row after Dagestani political scientist Ruslan Kurbanov (picture 2) on 21 April addressed the Lezgins, Northeast Caucasian ethnic groups, talking about nearby Ingushetia as a republic formed by chance against the background of the Chechen wars of the 1990s.

This statement sparked outrage among the Ingush, to the point that two members of the Mekhk-kkhel association, Sarazhdin Sultygov and Musa Albogachyev, filed a lawsuit against Kurbanov before an Islamic court.

The latter agreed to submit to Islamic law, but not in Ingushetia, and only after Ramadan (Islamic courts take a break in Russia during this months), possibly in Saudi Arabia or Qatar.

For his accusers, he is a provocateur, and in their view, local theologians, be they Ingush, Daghestani and Chechen, chew problems like peanuts, i.e. they can easily settle the matter; hence they insisted on immediate trial in Nazran, in Ingushetia.

On 27 April, the court met online, Sultygov and Albogachyev accepted Kurbanov's apology, avoiding dangerous reactions among the peoples of the two republics.

In late April, representatives of Chechen Tukhkum (local kinship groups) from the Arshtin ethnic group (also called Orstkhoytsy) publicly demanded the end of all speculation about their affiliation with the Chechen people.

Their request was presented in every village where Arshtin groupings are active, and the elders of each group or teip spoke out. The Arshtins reiterated their union with the Chechen people, and do not want neighbouring Ingushetia to politically use our people to divide the citizens of Chechnya.

All this stems from a speech by the President of the Chechen Parliament, Magomed Daudov, who, at the beginning of Ramadan, publicly said that he was willing to meet and openly discuss border issues with neighbouring republics.

Daudov repeated his proposal on 26 April, suggesting a meeting in Pyatigorsk, the administrative centre of Russias North Caucasian Federal District, but as protests mounted, solving the issue appears more and more remote.

Russias Caucasian republics are not the only part of the former Union facing border problems, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan are again at loggerheads over their shared border, which recently led to a series of armed clashes.

Last Wednesday, a water dispute broke out among residents near the Golovnoy water intake facility, not far from the sources of the Isfara River (picture 3), which both countries claim. Guns were used. When security forces arrived, the fighting intensified until Thursday evening.

Roads leading to the river were blocked first by Tajiks, then by Kyrgyz, and 7,000 local residents were evacuated. More than 10 buildings were set on fire, including a school.

The Kyrgyz Ministry of Health has reported 31 dead and 154 wounded, while Tajikistan reported only nine wounded. The parties are still trying to find a peaceful solution to this issue, avoiding further violence.

In this part of the world, ethnonationalist conflicts are a local sovereigntist response to globalisation, tied to ethnicity rather territory or culture. Increasingly, Islam is the basis for collective claims, driving more people, especially the young, towards radicalisation.
The Nagol is Back! VTOs guide to this years Nagol, plus where to stay and play in south, central and north Pentecost.
The Virginia Discovery Museum will be reopening its doors to in-person visits by small groups of people whove reserved spots in advance.

Reservations are available for Small Group Visits by social and family pods of up to 25 people. Staff members have received COVID-19 vaccines from the Blue Ridge Health District.

When the museum announced last month that it would be offering in-person camps during June, July and August, spaces sold out within hours. On Friday, an additional three weeks of camp registration will open in response to demand. Details can be found at https://vadm.org/summer-camps.

The in-person visits will be the first since March 2020. The museum lost an estimated $350,000 in revenue while its doors were closed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, including the loss of daily admission fees and birthday party fees, field trips, day camps and other income sources. The staff also had to cancel its four major annual events  the Boo Bash, Santa Pancake, Kidvention Science Festival and the Discovery Dash, which would have marked its 30th anniversary in 2020. Donations are accepted at www.vadm.org/donate.
Counsel for the city of Charlottesville, Thomas, Richardson and Jones echoed similar arguments and urged the appeals court to uphold the earlier dismissal. The brief also references a report prepared by Tim Heaphy  a former U.S. attorney for the Western District of Virginia whose law firm, Hunton & Williams, was hired by the city to review its preparations for and response to the rally. The report has been a major source of information for both Kesslers complaints.

While Kesslers complaint attempts to downplay the violence perpetrated by members of the Alt-Right (Kesslers group) engaged, the Independent Review of the 2017 Protest Events in Charlottesville, Virginia (hereinafter Heaphy Report), reveals the true picture  mutual combat and premeditated violence by both protesters and counter-protestors, the citys brief reads.

On April 26, counsel for Kessler filed a response brief to the defendants, ceding that the no duty rule used to dismiss the federal lawsuit holds that police do not owe Kessler any free-floating right to police assistance anytime or anywhere he wishes to express an unpopular opinion.

However, the response again doubles down on the hecklers veto argument.
We can put up signage, we could let the public know when a service might be held, we could email or text to let you know  there are a number of sort of operational issues that wed be glad to work out to mitigate that as much as possible, he said.

Linda Thompson, who said her mother lives on the other side of the Rivanna River from the farm, asked about future protection of the site, if the cemetery is approved.

What would happen if 50 years down the road the family or whoever owns the farm at that time decides that it does need to be sold for development? Is there something that would protect the area that is hopefully going to be the burial ground? she asked.

Virginia has a Cemetery Board that regulates for-profit cemeteries that offer perpetual care services or pre-need burial contracts and that are required to maintain trust fund accounts. Murray said that if the Panorama Farms cemetery did fail, the monies in that trust fund would be used for perpetual maintenance.

If the cemetery ultimately was approved and was so successful it needed to expand, Murray said they would like to expand into the corner of the property as much as possible.

Another neighbor, Sharon Davis, asked if the farm had proposed landscaping to offset the impacts to her property.
by Shafique Khokhar

The Italian-born missionary died from COVID-19 at the age of 90. In the Okara district he helped so many blind kids study. Bishop Rehmat remembers how He shared to the full our sorrows and joys.

Okara (AsiaNews)  The Catholic Church of Pakistan mourns the death of Father Aldino Amato, a 90-year-old Italian-born Dominican missionary who succumbed to COVID-19 after almost 60 years in Pakistan.

The clergyman died at ittefaq Hospital in Lahore at the end of a long life spent serving the poor in a country whose culture he had adopted as his own.

Fr Amato arrived in Pakistan as a missionary in 1962. In 59 years he carried out his ministry in many cities, including Khushpur, Sahiwal, Faisalabad, Chichawatni and Okara; he also built numerous churches, schools and hostels with particular care for the blind, many of whom received support for their studies until graduation.

His funeral was held last Saturday at Chak 6/4-L, a village in Okara district where the missionary built the Rosary Christian Hospital and a girls' college, as well as set up the Maria and Michele Modugno Foundation.

Speaking about the late missionary, Fr Younus Shahzad, a Dominican confrere and provincial of the Ibn-e-Mariam Vice Province of Pakistan, said that he was himself an organisation and a school of thought, dedicated to his work [. . .], like a tree that gave shade to those who were tired and in need of shelter.

Dr Sabir Michael, who was born blind, now lectures at Karachi University. He describes himself as one of the fruits of Fr Amato's work.

He was a great spiritual leader who inspired countless priests, Prof Michael said. The priest established a Christian school and home for the blind and school and college for the poor villagers of Chak 6 Okara. I am one of them who studied there, the educator added.

Speaking at the funeral, Bishop Indrias Rehmat of Faisalabad said: I thank God for the life and works of Fr Amato. He was a great priest and missionary in Pakistan.

For the prelate, Fr Amatos legacy will be his love for the poor, his dedication to his priestly ministry, his efforts to promote education, his care for the sick and blind children, and his availability for everyone.

When I heard the news of his death, I immediately remembered some verses from the Bible that sum up his life: Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Where you die, I will die, and there I will be buried (Ruth 1:16-17).

Fr Amato, Bishop Rehmat said, shared to the full our sorrows and joys, and his death here in Pakistan was a testament to the commitment with which he gave his whole life to our people.
But it remains to be seen how strongly the citizen members are willing to challenge the eight legislators on the panel. While the citizen members are trying to learn the redistricting process for the first time, some legislators, particularly Sen. George Barker, D-Fairfax, had a hand in the 2011 redistricting process that some critics said produced overly incumbent-friendly maps.

The commission wont be drawing maps until new U.S. Census data arrives in mid-August.

The General Assemblys Joint Reapportionment Committee voted in October to include incumbents addresses in redistricting data, ensuring the possibility it could be taken into account even if voters decided to hand redistricting power to the new commission.

If anyone had strong feelings on the question of how to handle incumbents addresses, it wasnt clear from the brief discussion at last weeks commission meeting.

Sean Kumar, a Democratic-appointed lawyer from Alexandria, said he felt it would be useful to know the limits of what the commission can do. The decision on how to handle incumbents, he said, could mean the difference between creating districts from scratch or choosing to minorly tweak whats already there.
Bangladesh: Improved Rohu breed to grow faster

by Reaz Ahmad

May 03,2021 | Source: Dhaka Tribune

In recent years, researchers in Bangladesh obtained fingerlings of Rohu from the countrys three major river systems  Padma, Jamuna and Halda. The goal was to genetically improve Bangladeshs most popular carp by selective breeding. Thanks to eight years of perseverance and long arduous job of selecting best of the best broods after rearing several generations of Rohu stocks, a great success has just been achieved. WorldFish researchers have developed a genetically improved Rohu variety with up to 30% faster growth potential. They already started both on-station and field trials in the last season, and will continue the same this season. If things move faster from here, fish farmers can expect having access to the new improved variety next year when the hatcheries, supplied with the improved Rohu, starts spawning the fish. From this improved carp variety, farmers can now expect to get Rohu stock from their ponds ready for sale in the market in a shorter period than usual. What is the project? WorldFish, a member of CGIAR, a global research partnership for a food-secure future that harnesses the potential of fisheries and aquaculture to reduce hunger and poverty throughout the world, took up this task of carrying out selective breeding to gain genetic improvement in one of the most preferred carp species, first time in Bangladesh in 2012.



Thanks to a five-year USAID-funded Feed the Future Bangladesh Aquaculture Activity (BAA) program run by the WorldFish, the Rohu improvement work got momentum over the last couple of years. BAA works in Bangladesh in 21 south-western districts and two districts in the southeast affected by the Rohingya situation. BAA Deputy Chief of the Party Dr Md Shamsul Kabir told Dhaka Tribune that Rohu and some other carps lost genetic purity over time. But thanks to their work, farmers would soon get better breed thereby, helping them rear improved quality carp and earn more in quicker time. Dr Kabir said they had already handed out broods to five Jessore hatcheries and to two other organizations - Brac and Fishtech - and given spawns to 15 fish nurseries in Jessore and Rajshahi regions as part of the field trial process. Rohu aquaculture in Bangladesh currently uses genetically unimproved stock. Furthermore, poor genetic management of broodstock (parents) in some Bangladeshi hatcheries has historically resulted in inbreeding, further reducing Rohu productivity. Sources at the Department of Fisheries said the improved carp variety would soon be reared at government-run hatcheries too, before the seeds are commercially made available to the farmers. An everyday staple In Bangladesh, fish accounts for 60% of consumed animal protein, the majority of which is sourced from domestic aquaculture. Rohu is the most important aquaculture species in Bangladesh and a significant source of food and income for poor farmers.



WorldFish statistics show that approximately 319,000 tons of Rohu fish are produced annually in Bangladesh, representing a wholesale market value of over $950 million. According to the Yearbook of Fisheries Statistics of Bangladesh 2018-19, with nearly 400,000 tons of annual production, Rohu contributes 10.55% of the countrys annual fish production of inland waterbodies. In Bangladesh, Rohu (250,000 tons of production) comes third after Pangas (450,000 tons), and Tilapia (320,000 tons), when it is counted on the basis of fish production in pond aquaculture. The yearly fish output that Bangladesh gets from its beels (massive wetlands), Rohu stands first with 13,152 tons (13.17% of total fish production). In this segment, Mrigal and Catla come next with 9.22% and 8.47% contributions, respectively. The other waterbodies where Rohu is produced in Bangladesh include: 50,967 tons from seasonal cultured waterbody, 43,874 tons from floodplains, and only 3,121 tons from the rivers. Globally, more than one billion poor people obtain most of their animal protein from fish, and 800 million depend on fisheries and aquaculture for their livelihoods. A carp species, Rohu (scientific name Labeo rohita) is found in rivers across South Asia. It is a large omnivore and extensively used in aquaculture. Rohu occurs in rivers throughout Bangladesh, much of northern a



d central and eastern India, Pakistan, Vietnam, Nepal and Myanmar. It was also introduced into some of the rivers of Peninsular India and Sri Lanka. Rohu has a rich ancient tradition of being a crucial part of food menus in the Indian subcontinent, very commonly eaten in Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan and the Indian states of Tripura, Nagaland, Bihar, Odisha, Assam, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Tamilnadu and Uttar Pradesh. A recipe for fried Rohu fish is mentioned in a 12th-century Sanskrit encyclopedia  Manasollasa (meaning "The refresher of the mind"), compiled by Someshvara III, who ruled an area in India, now known as Karnataka. In this recipe, the fish is marinated in asafetida  known as hing in Bangla  and salt after being skinned. It is then dipped in turmeric mixed in water before being fried. The WorldFish Rohu Genetic Improvement Program, supported by the USAID, aims to substantially increase aquaculture productivity in Bangladesh by developing and disseminating rapidly growing Rohu to farmers. After starting dissemination of the current genetically improved Rohu seed among farmers, WorldFish also aims at further improving the Rohu growth rate by an average of 5%10% every two years  the age at which new genetically superior parents can be selected and spawned. The organization is currently developing a dissemination strategy and business model to underpin a sustainable, genetically improved Rohu program for the country.
Pakistan: PM urges youth to tap Balochistans promising fisheries sector

May 03,2021 | Source: Business Recorder

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday said the coastal areas of Balochsitan offered immense potential in fisheries and asked the local youth to learn techniques to fully tap the opportunities for revenue generation. Addressing at the ceremony of soft loan distribution among youth of Balochistan under Kamyab Jawan programme, the prime minister said the government would support the youth through proper training in fisheries and help them run their own businesses. The prime minister expressed satisfaction over the allocation of Rs 10 billion for the small business and skill development of the people of Balochistan. He proposed that learning of cage fishing technique as an aquaculture fish production system could prove beneficial for poor fishermen who were struggling to meet their ends. He pointed that big cartels in fishery sectors were an impediment in removing poverty of fishermen. Imran Khan said promotion of fisheries sector would help uplift the youth of Balochistan and would ultimately benefit Pakistan. Senior Leader of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Muhammad Usman Dar, who is leading the Kamyab Jawan project said loans amounting to Rs8 billion had been disbursed among 10,000 youth which had helped create around 70,000 employment opportunities.



He said in line with the directions of prime minister, at least Rs5 billion would be distributed among the youth of Balochistan by this year end for supporting them in setting up their own businesses. Earlier, the prime minister gave away cheques of soft loans to the successful candidates of Youth Entrepreneurship Scheme (YES) from Balochistan. The programme was launched in October 2019 under the banner of Kamyab Jawan Programme to provide the youth soft loans for initiation of their own businesses. Recently, the government has enhanced the scope of YES which was meant to offer huge amount of concessionary loans ranging between Rs 100,000 and Rs 25 million to the youth. Earlier, it was limited to Rs 5 million only. According to the State Bank of Pakistan, the financing under YES has been segregated into three tiers. Under tier-1, loan limit is from Rs 100,000 up to Rs 1 million, whereas tier-2s loan limit is from above Rs 1 million and upto Rs 10 million and under tier-3, loan limit is from above Rs 10 million and upto Rs 25 million. For tier-1 loans, mark up rate is 3 percent, while mark up rate for tier-2 loans is 4 percent, and for tier-3, mark up rate is 5 percent.

 Business Recorder, 2021
Andhra Pradesh: Dip in prices, exports put fish farmers in dilemma

by S Guru Srikanth

May 03,2021 | Source: The New Indian Express

Though there has been no decline in the production of fish in Andhra Pradesh, its export to other states, particularly to North and North Eastern states is witnessing a slowdown due to fluctuating prices. Closure of markets in the north, particularly in Delhi, has affected the price of the fish from the state. Rohu and Catla make the majority of the fish exported to Northern states with the Pangasia variety coming last. Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, where the demand for the fish from the state is more, have imposed restrictions on movement of people and Delhi is under lockdown. During the Covid first wave last year, the Covid-imposed lockdown has disrupted the supply chain, despite the states emergency measures of taking up transportation of perishable goods. As the markets in almost all states were closed, fish farmers in the state had suffered losses. Today no such situation is there as there is no lockdown, but the limited accessibility to markets in the North, particularly Delhi, Asias largest market, the prices of the fish are getting affected, Nagi Reddy, a fish farmer in Krishna district said.



Another fish producer from neighbouring West Godavari district said prices of Pangasia, which is the preferred variety of those in Delhi and Punjab, is witnessing a drop. Several farmers are yet to harvest in large scale fearing that Covid situation may deteriorate, he said. A senior official in the Fisheries department said there has been no reports of any drop in fish exports. Compared to previous years, there is a drop in the quantum of the exports. It could be mainly attributed to the increase in the local consumption. However, the prices might get affected this week due to closure of markets in some Northern states, he explained. Farmers are now worried about possible shortage of workers in the days to come, with worsening Covid situation in the state. They are now in a dilemma as to what to do to avert the possible losses.

 newindianexpress.com 2021
The Corvallis office is run by Kernutt Stokes partners and Oregon State University accounting graduates L.M. Shelly Sorem (83) and Jonathan Powell (06).

Lab offers drive-up COVID-19 testing

Willamette Valley Toxicology Lab, a Corvallis-based clinical reference laboratory, has begun offering polymerase chain reaction testing for the novel coronavirus, COVID-19.

The testing center at 1880 Rye St. SE in Albany began testing on April 21. WVT also has drive-up testing locations in Corvallis and Ashland.

Due to space restrictions, the testing will not be provided on demand. WVT can facilitate up to five carloads at a time, in 10-minute increments.

WVT anticipates conducting more than 500 tests per day, with results to be provided in less than 48 hours. Tests will be administered at patients parked cars. Patients are asked to schedule an appointment at www.wvtlab.com, then create an account on labdash.net, where they will receive a unique quick response code they will bring to the appointment.

WVT will directly bill patients insurance. Options for the uninsured are available.

Since the outbreak of COVID-19, WVT has performed more than 300,000 PCR COVID tests.
Albany student makes honor roll

Cadence Goodwin of Albany earned a place on the Spokane Community College winter quarter honor roll.

Students on the honor roll earned a grade-point average of 3.0 or above.

School selected as a finalist in contest

Cheldelin Middle School in Corvallis has been selected as a finalist for the OnPoint Community Credit Union Prize for Excellence in Education Community Builder.

On May 11, the credit union will announce five Community Builder Award winners and six finalists for the OnPoint Prize Educator of the Year, who will be in the running to have their mortgage or rent paid for a year.

Cheldelin students hope to win the prize and use the funds to help build a Fire and Food Courtyard, stating that lifes strongest connections form over food and fire. To create a learning experience for students that links scientific measurement, mathematical construction principles and art creation, the school seeks to build an outdoor space equipped with a wood-fired kiln. Built above the kilns firebox will be a bread oven.
The meeting was held in the George K. Miller Meeting Room of the old Armory Building on Fifth Street, and the creaking of wood floors overhead completely drowned out the speakers at times. No one was using a microphone because of COVID concerns, which also made it difficult to hear the speakers, who were facing away from the audience.

The Board of Commissioners sometimes uses the Linn County Fair & Expo Center for hearings where a large crowd is expected, but it was already in use for a COVID-19 vaccination clinic. County officials also say the public was given enough time to provide comment and that the commissioners themselves could hear just fine.

At the end of the day, the decision will be based on the record and we were able to hear, said Commission Chair Roger Nyquist. And we gave ample opportunity to provide additional information into the record.

Rather than make a decision at the Wednesday hearing, the commissioners opted to leave the public record open for three more weeks. Each side then has a week after the record is closed to submit rebuttals to whatever new information is added to the record.

The board is expected to make a decision at its June 2 meeting, though it can delay its decision again if commissioners feel its necessary.

Troy Shinn covers healthcare, natural resources and the Linn County government. He can be reached at 541-812-6114 or troy.shinn@lee.net. His can be found on Twitter at @troydshinn.

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"In the unbridled race to posses, career, honors or power, the weak and the little ones are often ignored and rejected, or considered as useless, indeed they are considered as waste material". "The pandemic has destroyed many projects, it has asked everyone to deal with the unexpected. Welcoming the unexpected, rather than ignoring or rejecting it, means remaining docile to the Spirit ".

Vatican City (AsiaNews) - "Missionary impulse does not lie in the logic of conquest but in that of giving". The tasks and responsibilities of Catholic laity were at the center of two meetings held this morning by Pope Francis, who received the Chemin Neuf Community and then the National Council of Italian Catholic Action.

Speaking to the members of the community born in France, in Lyon in 1972, on the initiative of Laurent Fabre, a Jesuit seminarian, and now widespread in various countries, Francis praised the value of the " a journey you make by rejecting poverty and working for a more just and fraternal world. In fact, in the unbridled pursuit of possessions, careers, honours or power, the weak and the least are often ignored and rejected, or considered useless, indeed they are considered as waste material. This is why I hope that your commitment and your enthusiasm in the service of others, shaped by the power of the Gospel of Christ, will restore a taste for life and hope in the future to many people, especially many young people."

"The lay vocation is directed above all to charity within the family and to social and political charity. It is a concrete and faith-based commitment to the building of a new society. It involves living in the midst of society and the world in order to bring the Gospel everywhere, to work for the growth of peace, harmony, justice, human rights and mercy, and thus for the extension of Gods kingdom in this world (Post-Synodal Apostolic Exhortation Christus Vivit, 168). It is precisely with this dynamic that you journey, with an ecumenical openness and a heart willing to welcome different cultures and traditions, in order to transform the face of our society.".

Dear friends - he said later - I encourage you not to be afraid to walk the paths of fraternity and to build bridges between people, between peoples, in a world where so many walls are still being built out of fear of others. Through your initiatives, your projects and your activities, you make visible a Church that is poor with and for the poor, an outbound Church that is close to people in situations of suffering, vulnerability, marginalisation and exclusion..

The outgoing Church and availability towards others were also at the center of the words addressed to Catholic Action. "The pandemic - he pointed out - has destroyed many projects, has asked everyone to deal with the unexpected. Welcoming the unexpected, rather than ignoring or rejecting it, means remaining docile to the Spirit and, above all, faithful to the life of the men and women of our time. The evangelist emphasizes that Jesus 'confirmed the Word with signs'. What does it mean? That what we do has a precise origin: listening to and welcoming the Gospel. But it also means that there must be a strong link between what you hear and what you experience. So I invite you to ensure that the search for a synthesis between Word and life, which makes faith an incarnate experience, continues to characterize the formative paths of Catholic Action ".

"What characteristics must action, the work of Catholic Action have? I would say first of all gratuitousness. The missionary impulse does not lie in the logic of conquest but in that of the gift. Gratuitousness, the mature fruit of the gift of self, asks you to dedicate yourselves to your local communities, assuming the responsibility of proclamation; it asks you to listen to your territories, feeling their needs, weaving fraternal relationships. The history of your Association is made up of many 'everyday saints', and it is a history that must continue: holiness is a legacy to be preserved and a vocation to be welcomed ".
Cinco de Mayo, or May 5, is sometimes mistaken for Mexican Independence Day, but its actually a minor holiday down in Mexico that celebrates a victory over the French in the Battle of Puebla in 1862.

In the United States, Cinco de Mayo has become synonymous with tacos and Mexican food and drink, which means mid-Willamette Valley residents may be on the hunt for restaurants and more.

In honor of Cinco de Mayo celebrations, heres a list of the top-ranked Mexican restaurants and taco joints in Linn and Benton counties. We've included both authentic eateries owned by Hispanic families and white-owned establishments directly inspired by Latin American cuisine and ingredients.

Rankings are from reviews on Yelp as of Sunday afternoon. Only restaurants with reviews averaging 4 stars were considered.

From Albany and Corvallis, we chose three restaurants each. Then we picked restaurants from Lebanon, Sweet Home and Philomath, the next largest towns in the area.

Weve also added for your dining pleasure two businesses without numerous reviews that our foodie friends are absolutely raving about right now.
Many police officers spurn coronavirus vaccines as departments avoid mandates

Police officers were among the first front-line workers to gain priority access to coronavirus vaccines. But their vaccination rates are lower than or about the same as those of the general public, according to data made available by some of the nations largest law enforcement agencies.

The reluctance of police to get the shots threatens not just their own health but the safety of people theyre responsible for guarding, monitoring and patrolling, experts say.

At the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, 39% of employees have gotten at least one dose, officials said, compared to more than 50% of eligible adults nationwide. In Atlanta, 36% of sworn officers have been vaccinated. Twenty-eight percent of those employed by the Columbus Division of Police  Ohios largest police department  report having received a shot.

I think its unacceptable, Joe Lombardo, the head of Las Vegas police and sheriff of Clark County, said of the demand for the shots within his force.

The numbers paint a troubling picture of policing and public health. Because officers have high rates of diabetes, heart disease and other conditions, their hesitancy puts them at greater risk of serious illness from the coronavirus while undermining force readiness, experts said. Police officers were more likely to die of COVID-19 last year than of all other causes combined, according to data compiled by the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund.

Police hesitancy also means officers may be vectors of spread to vulnerable people with whom they interact during traffic stops, calls for service and other high-contact encounters. That could thwart efforts to restore community trust in a moment of heightened scrutiny after last months conviction of ex-officer Derek Chauvin in the killing of George Floyd.

Police touch people, said Sharona Hoffman, a professor of law and bioethics at Case Western Reserve University. Imagine having a child in the car whos not vaccinated. People would want to know if a police officer coming to their window is protected.

Police ambivalence about immunization finds a parallel among other front-line workers. Fifty-two percent of health-care workers surveyed by The Washington Post and the Kaiser Family Foundation between Feb. 11 and March 7 said they had received at least one dose.

One solution is for departments to make vaccination compulsory, according to experts in bioethics and public health, just as some health-care settings and institutions of higher education have begun doing.

But department leaders and union officials said in interviews that such requirements could backfire or lead to lengthy litigation. Of more than 40 major metropolitan police departments contacted by The Post, none had made vaccination compulsory for employees.

That reflects a belief among officers  and their unions  that getting a shot is a private decision.

I hate to sound like I dont care, but I really dont, Vince Champion, the Atlanta-based Southeast region director of the International Brotherhood of Police Officers, said of low vaccination rates. Its a personal decision. We fight [the virus] every day. Were out among every disease in the world.

Authorities in roughly half the departments, from Philadelphia to Houston to San Francisco, were not tracking how many of their officers were vaccinated. That baffled Chris Cosgriff, executive director of the Officer Down Memorial Page, which honors law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty.

Commanders should know whether officers are vulnerable to getting sick and potentially dying, he said. Its a readiness issue.

Hesitancy and unease abound

Hesitancy within police departments is rooted in some of the same concerns expressed by the general public, according to police chiefs, union officials and experts in policing and public health.

Officers have voiced unease about the novelty of the shots and the speed with which they were developed, along with confidence that they can avoid the virus with proper protective gear. The majority of police are men, who are less likely than women to be immunized.

Many officers also reject immunization because they think previous COVID-19 infections have given them immunity, said Sean Smoot, director and chief legal counsel of the Police Benevolent and Protective Association of Illinois. That assumption runs counter to federal health guidance, which indicates that recovered people should be vaccinated because the duration of post-infection protection is unknown.

Some of the differences in police uptake of the vaccine reflect disparities among the communities they serve. Hawaii, where 80% of officers in Honolulu have received at least one dose, has administered more doses per capita than all but four states, and the Democratic governor, David Ige, has moved forward with plans for certifications known as vaccine passports, a cousin of vaccine mandates. A greater proportion of residents in Denver County, Colo., are vaccinated than in, for example, Clark County, Nev., which includes Las Vegas, or Fulton County, Ga., which includes Atlanta.

Smaller cities report lower rates of police vaccination. Twenty percent of officers in Mobile, Ala., have been vaccinated, said the citys public safety director, Lawrence Battiste. Some may have gotten their shots without the help of the city, he said, and therefore have gone untracked. But many are young, he said, and think the vaccines may be linked to infertility, an idea spread on social media that experts say has no basis in fact.

Amid such concerns, a few police departments stand out for their success.

In Denver, the police chief joined the president of the citys police union in July to enroll in a clinical trial of Modernas vaccine at UC Health, along with more than a dozen officers. The chief, Paul Pazen, received the placebo but got the real thing in the early days of the vaccine rollout in December, when police gained priority access along with other emergency workers.

Sixty-nine percent of Denvers Public Safety Department has been vaccinated, police chief Paul Pazen said, at clinics run at the citys crime lab and at a sheriffs department training facility. Thats among the highest rates disclosed by departments contacted by The Post.

Thats not an accident, the chief said. By the time those vaccine clinics opened, he said, his officers had learned about mRNA  the technology behind the Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech vaccines  and had seen a video of the union president discussing his experience in the trial. I would do it again, the union president, Nick Rogers, says in the video, which was provided to The Post.

Pazen says too many departments waited to urge staffers to get immunized. Other places are struggling, he said.

Some cities are turning to incentives to boost participation. The Phoenix Police Department is offering a one-time $75 vaccine safety award to employees who get protected. Nine-hundred-nineteen employees, out of 3,982 total, have submitted a completed vaccine card to receive the rewards, said city spokesman Dan Wilson.

Other places are using inducements of other kinds. To spur interest in the vaccines, Lombardo, the chief in Las Vegas, revoked a policy at the beginning of April that had treated all coronavirus infections as work-related. Now officers must use their own sick leave to quarantine and recuperate. But the order has had little effect, he said, because more than 30 employees have tested positive since.

Lombardo said he has also sought to make vaccination more accessible by offering shots in briefing rooms and jails. Im doing everything I can to make it readily available, but I hire from the human race, and sometimes people are just lazy.

Steve Grammas, a Las Vegas detective and president of the citys police union, dismissed the notion that laziness is the issue. Those who have refrained, he said, may simply be uninterested.

Its a personal choice that everyones going to make, he said.

Committed to the view of vaccination as a personal matter, officials in scores of large cities said they are not tracking vaccinations. Because its strictly voluntary, we prefer not to intrude in privacy issues, said Alvaro Zabaleta, a detective with the Miami-Dade Police Department in Florida.

Other departments have partial records. In Chicago, officers who received shots at department clinics, or who used a specific code to sign up as emergency workers beginning in January, number at least 4,000, out of 12,413 active officers, city officials said. But many may have gotten shots elsewhere.

The San Antonio Police Department stopped keeping count in late January, when eligibility expanded and officers began getting vaccinated on their own. At that point, 50% of officers had received shots, said department spokesman Christopher Ramos.

Jason Pappas, an officer in Columbus, said the departments numbers may skew low because law enforcement in Ohio only became eligible for the shots in March, months later than in neighboring states. That delay stirred anger and may now be causing officers to withhold their vaccination status, he said.

Limited data makes it impossible to know whether mandates are appropriate, said Noel Brewer, a professor of public health behavior at the University of North Carolina.

Requirements are best put into place once the behavior is already relatively common, he said. Otherwise you can get immediate blowback.

Choice to be vaccinated

The experience of the few law enforcement agencies requiring employees to be vaccinated illustrates why such decisions are often fraught.

Mandates issued in January for employees of the sheriffs office in Durham County, N.C., and emergency workers in Dona Ana County, N.M., prompted federal lawsuits contending that vaccines authorized for emergency use cannot be made a condition of employment.

The claims cite language from the Food and Drug Administrations fact sheet describing coronavirus immunization as a choice, as well as assurances from federal health officials that vaccines are not allowed to be mandatory. The complaint of a Durham County sheriffs deputy, who was dismissed after he refused to provide proof of vaccination, says he was confronted with the Hobsons choice of either being forced to take an experimental, unapproved vaccine against his will, or being fired, stigmatized and having his life upended.

Mandatory vaccination, especially for police, is politically charged. The dispute in Durham County gained notice in the right-wing media, where a Facebook page called Thin Blue Line posted a January article criticizing the requirement as communism in a group with more than 73,000 members titled We Support Our Police.

Vaccine mandates probably would pass legal muster, according to specialists in employment law, providing that they adhere to guidance issued last year by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission outlining exceptions for disability and religious belief. The broad authority of states and localities to protect public welfare would encompass compulsory vaccination of police, said Catherine Ruckelshaus, legal director of the National Employment Law Project.

But most police leaders see the legal and union fights as minefields theyd rather avoid. We have made a very deliberate decision not to mandate it for staff, said Joseph Chacon, chief of the Austin Police Department, who has refrained from questioning officers about their immunization status, saying they have trepidation in thinking we might be trying to track that somehow, which were not.

Pazen, the chief in Denver, said he fears the legal ramifications of a mandate and would prefer to get voluntary compliance.

Vaccine policy has generated intense discussion within the Major Cities Chiefs Association, said Lombardo, the Las Vegas police official. The decision point that would trigger a mandate for his department, he said, is a rate of coronavirus infection that would leave his force without sufficient employees to address calls for service.

I havent been put into that position yet, he said.

Some officers say talk of mandates is premature. More than half of the Los Angeles Police Department has received at least one dose, said Mark Cronin, a 27-year veteran of LAPD and a union official handling virus-related issues.

Most of the questions he fields are from officers asking how to decide among the three authorized vaccines, how to arrange their vaccination and how to plan for a booster shot, he said.

And for officers who refuse vaccination, Cronins message is blunt. I tell our members that youre an absolute fool if you dont get it.

Related
A Cuban Horror Story: Luis Manuel Otero Alcantara's Hunger Strike From Pedro Luis Boitel to Otero Alcantara, there is a legacy of suffering in the defense of freedom in Cuba that is difficult to recount.

The defenselessness to which Castroism subjects the Cuban nation has spurred a considerable number of people to demand their rights through hunger strikes; the one that that Luis Manuel Otero Alcantara began last Sunday, April 25 adds another chapter to the history of those who have used this method of struggle in the defense of freedom.

Pedro Luis Boitel is the best-known case of those who have gone on a hunger strikes during his political imprisonment back in the early 70s, taking it to its final, tragic consequence. According to the book El presidio politico en Cuba comunista (ICOSOCV, Caracas, 1982), Boitel went on several protracted fasts between 1968 and May 25, 1972, when he died of hunger protesting against the humiliating conditions his jailers sought to impose on him.

The 1990s would see a resurgence in the pro-democracy movement on the island, as the horrors that Castroism unleashed to preserve political power resuscitated hunger strikes as a form of protest.

On July 25, 1991, Amnesty International expressed its concern for Roberto Luque Escalona, who had commenced a hunger strike on July 16, 1990, while still free, interrupted three days later when he was arrested at his home. In July 1990, Luque Escalona had gone on a hunger strike lasting 35 days.

In 1997 Guillermo Farinas carried out his first long-term hunger strike, demanding some kind of sanction against the director of the hospital where he worked, for her corrupt conduct. The strike started in January and ended on May 1. Guillermo Farinas has gone on a whole series of hunger strikes, but it was the one he carried out after the death of Orlando Zapata Tamayo in prison, in January 2010, that had the greatest impact.

Orlando Zapata Tamayo's martyrdom in prison, after 86 days on a hunger strike, shone a light on the horrors of Castroism, eliciting national and international censure.

As a tribute to Zapata, and for the freedom of sick political prisoners, Guillermo Farinas began a hunger strike that lasted 135 days. In the end Raul Castro's government acceded to his demands, and some 100 political prisoners were released.

But, far from refraining from its ruthless conduct, Castroism ramped up its persecution and torture of citizens, whether free or in prison. The result was that Orlando Zapata Tamayo's death marked the start of a decade in which the use of hunger strikes as a method to demand rights increased, with a legacy of suffering that is difficult to narrate.

On November 11, 2011, in a demonstration by the Patriotic Union of Cuba (UNPACU), the activist and member of said organization, Wilman Villar Mendoza, was arrested. After a summary trial, he was sentenced to four years in prison for the crimes of assaulting an authority and contempt. A few days later, he began a hunger strike that would last 50 days.

According to a UNPACU communique, Wilman was placed naked in a cell, contracting pneumonia. Just two days before he died he was transferred to the hospital, where he died at the age of 31, on January 19, 2012. He had two children.

On August 6, 2015, the Cubanet newspaper published the interview "They have persecuted my son so badly, that he prefers to die," in which the lawyer and journalist Ernesto Garcia spoke with Meibol Sanchez, the mother of Emmanuel Abreu, who had been on a hunger strike for 84 days.

Emmanuel, apparently, survived prison, as the information on him is hazy after his mother's numerous complaints.

Ariel Ruiz Urquiola's hunger strike in 2018 received major attention, particularly for his vociferous condemnation of the Castro dictatorship.

A biologist by profession, Ariel began to take care of his sister, Omara Isabel Ruiz Urquiola, when she fell ill with cancer in 2003. In 2016 he went on a first hunger strike in front of the Havana Oncological Hospital, demanding the medicine needed to save his sister's life.

The Ruiz Urquiola family's mobilization of the populace incensed the Castro regime, and in May 2018 Ariel was imprisoned for the crime of contempt. The conditions of overcrowding there were so degrading that Ariel began a hunger strike on June 16, 2018. His determination caused the authorities to cave in, and after 16 days he was allowed to serve the rest of his sentence outside prison.

After serving his time, Ariel traveled to Switzerland, where he was diagnosed, to his surprise, with HIV. Convinced that he had been infected by the Cuban regime during his hunger strike at the hospital, he filed complaints against the Castro regime with different international organizations. Again on a hunger strike, in June 2020 in Ariel installed himself in Geneva in front of the headquarters of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. Four days later the international organization agreed to receive him at a plenary session of the Human Rights Council, and on Friday, July 3, he shared his account of the Communist horror in Cuba.

In October 2018 Tomas Nunez Magdariada, then a member of UNPACU, was released after 62 days on a hunger strike. The dictatorship had accused him of issuing threats, and sentenced him to one year in prison. From the beginning of his incarceration, on August 14, Tomas went on a hunger strike. He spent several days in the hospital when he was transferred, on the 34th day of his strike, to a punishment cell, and subjected to various acts of physical abuse.

On Monday, July 8, 2017, prisoner Hugo Riveron Olivera died at the Lenin Hospital in the city of Holguin, at the age of 59. According to the article in the Cubanet newspaper "Cuba: Prisoner Dies on Hunger Strike", Riveron Olivera had started his strike on May 12, 2017, demanding a review of his case. He had been sentenced to six years.

Yosvany Arostegui Armenteros, a member of the Camaguey Human Rights Unit, died on Friday, August 7, 2020 after 40 days on a hunger strike. He had served several months in the Kilo 7 prison in that city.

In January 2020, rapper Maykel Castillo, "Osorbo", a member of the San Isidro Movement, decried the death of prisoner Lazaro Abreu Godinez after 58 days on a hunger strike. He had been convicted of the crime of receiving stolen goods. In a video shot at the cemetery by Maykel, Abreu Godinez's sister condemned the severity of his sanction. Lazaro Abreu had a two-year-old son when he passed away.

On December 4, 2020, Roilan Alvarez Rensoler, a political activist and member of the UNPACU, was released after 29 days of a hunger strike that began on November 5. Charges of contempt were trumped up against Alvarez Rensoler, and his conviction was a disgrace for the Castroist judicial system. The activist went on a hunger strike at the same time he entered prison, after his trial, on November 5, 2020.

Luis Manuel Otero Alcantara's hunger strike took the history of this method of protest into a new stage. After 60 years of horror, Luis Manuel has fought like few others against Castroism, achieving in four years what it is difficult for many to achieve in a lifetime.

This horror sought to silence him, and Luis Manuel spoke through dozens of activists. The horror limited his space, so artists and intellectuals have given him their own. The horror threatened to distance him from the natural audience of his work, the San Isidro neighborhood, and from there came the voice that characterized the horror at last: singao.

This horror now aims to exhibit its specialty: sucking the life out of people. What it has done to an entire nation, it wants to do to Luis Manuel. But there the artist is, a beacon just like Pedro Luis Boitel, Orlando Zapata, Guillermo Farinas, Ariel Ruiz and many others demonstrating that human beings do not even need sustenance to shine.
Alabamas constitution and state code are peppered with archaic language that reflects viewpoints and social positions that havent weathered the times well. Last year, voters approved a constitutional amendment that would start an effort to remove racist language from the state constitution, which still mandates school segregation.

Last week, Gov. Kay Ivey signed a measure repealing a 1992 no promo homo law requiring that sex education curriculum note an emphasis, in a factual manner and from a public health perspective, that homosexuality is not a lifestyle acceptable to the general public and that homosexual conduct is a criminal offense under the laws of this state.

Physical intimacy between two people of the same gender is no longer illegal, having been struck down by the 2003 U.S. Supreme Court Ruling in Lawrence vs Texas, but it had been before that ruling.

Acceptance of the general public is more difficult to determine. Alabama wrestled with same-sex marriage after a federal case found its prohibition unconstitutional; the defiance of some county probate judges who refused to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples led to the eventual abandonment of a license requirement.
Honda Vietnam has announced it would recall 27,640 locally assembled and imported vehicles to resolve a fuel pump malfunction.

The affected models are City (8,626 units), Civic (3,624 units), CR-V (10,687 units), HR-V (3,630 units), Jazz (630 units) and Accord (442 units) made in 2019. Out of nearly 28,000 defective vehicles, 19,014 were locally assembled, with the rest imported from Thailand. The recall will start this Wednesday.

Faults related to the fuel pump installed in these vehicles may involve defective impellers. Over time, the pump may crack, deform and prevent the engine from starting or stalling.

At present, there is no record of safety threats due to the fuel pump error in the Vietnamese market. Vehicle owners are advised to visit authorized dealerships to have their engines checked.

Replacements will be made when spare parts become available. Spare parts and related services would be completely free of charge. For vehicles imported through non-genuine import dealerships, in case customers request, Honda Vietnam would still provide relevant information.

Honda was the fourth best-selling auto brand in Vietnam in the first quarter of this year with 6,782 units sold, up 24.7 percent year-on-year.
People look at Panasonic's televisions displayed at an electronics store in Tokyo April 28, 2014. Photo by Reuters/Toru Hanai.

Japanese electronics giant Panasonic will end TV production in Vietnam and India by the end of fiscal 2021.

It is in talks to outsource production with Chinese rival TCL, the worlds third largest TV maker after considering many major manufacturers, according to Nikkei Asia Review.

It said the development of low-end TVs, which have low margins, would be outsourced to cut costs.

The company has followed other leading Japanese brands in scaling down TV production, an area formerly a major competitive advantage for the country's electronics industry. It will continue to produce its own high-end TVs, mainly for sale in Japan, but will also consider consolidating or shrinking production locations at home and abroad.

Japans Kyodo News said in an article published last Friday: "Panasonic's TV business has been struggling due to fierce competition from Chinese and South Korean rivals."

Panasonic used to have a 10 percent share of the global TV market but gradually lost its appeal when low-cost competitors from China appeared.

It earlier withdrew from the plasma TV segment, and discontinued production in the U.S. and China.

According to British research firm Omdia, by 2020 Panasonic ranked 12th worldwide in TV shipments with a 1.8 percent market share.

Sales and production of TVs account for less than 10 percent of Panasonic's total revenues. This segment was profitable in the year ending March 2021 thanks to a strong domestic market.

But the company has found the opportunity to earn long-term profits from TVs is no longer stable, and has been forced to restructure like many other Japanese brands.

In 2012, electronics firm Hitachi terminated its domestic TV production and sold its entire brand in 2018. That year Toshiba also sold all of its TV assets to China's electronics maker Hisense Group.

Sony has restructured its business model by reducing sales channels and some inefficient product lines.

Panasonic sells around six million TVs annually worldwide.

In Vietnam, it has eight companies, including Panasonic System Networks in Hanoi, which makes products like phones and projectors for the export market, refrigerator and washing machine factories, and R&D centers in various cities like Hanoi, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City and Can Tho.
Investment platforms offering quick, handsome profits are mushrooming in Vietnam as fraudsters look to take advantage of gullible social media users.

Over 700 reports have recently been filed with HCMC police by thousands who have been tricked by smartphone app Coolcat. The extent of fraud is estimated at VND200 billion ($8.7 million), the police said.

This is just one of many apps that have made their appearance in Vietnam recently, aiming to trick investors with promises of quick and easy profits.

Over 160 investors this month claimed to have been tricked by Bounty, a website that rewards users with money if they interact with online vendors on social media, such as liking a post on Facebook of subscribing to a YouTube channel. There are 10 levels of users, and users up their levels by putting in more money, which will allow them to complete tasks with higher profits.

Ngoc, an investor, was able to gain VND1.4 million ($61) in just a few days, so she decided to invest a total of VND194 million in the platform and invited others to join.

But on April 24, Bounty investors started to leave the groups and stopped posting on social media; and three days later, the website interface was changed from Vietnamese to Chinese.

Ngoc lost VND154 million in 10 days.

Another platform, Lifeshop, allows users to make money by placing fake orders on online shopping websites. By placing 12 orders a user can make VND25,000, but he or she can make more by spending money to advance to higher levels.

Similarly, an app called Lucky Money offers commissions of 1-5 percent for each task a user completes, without providing any information about the company behind it.

Hatching eggs apparently can make money too, with the app TamaGo promising 5 percent interest in just eight hours if investors put in a sum of money to "hatch" a digital egg.

Promoters of the app say it is developed in Singapore and is being welcomed in Japan and South Korea, but offer no statistics or other evidence.

"You will never lose," they assert.

Dinh Trong Thinh, senior lecturer at the Academy of Finance in Hanoi, said that many investors are drawn to this kind of investment because they think they can withdraw early without making losses.

This business is not regulated in Vietnam and investors have to engage in them at their own risk, he said.

Early birds might make some money with these platforms, but later investors will likely lose, he added.

Ngo Tan Vu Khanh, a faculty member of University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City, said that creating an app is very easy these days. Whenever a suspicious app crashes, another will replace it. Developers can even make several such apps with some adjustments of users interface to lure new investors in, he said.

Until there is a legal framework to regulate such apps, users should not invest in them as the chance of losing money is very high, he added.
A person reaches for a bag of ST25 rice at a store District 10, Ho Chi Minh City, on April 23, 2021. Photo by VnExpress/Quynh Tran.

Vietnam has sent a complaint to intellectual property officials in Australia, saying exports of local ST25 and ST24 rice varieties were negatively impacted by a trademark dispute.

Nguyen Phu Hoa, head of Vietnam Trade Office in Australia, said the agency has sent documents and photos to clarify that the rice varieties named ST24, ST25 are developed in Vietnam by Ho Quang Cua.

According to IP Australia, a company called T&L Global Foods Supply Pty Ltd. submitted an application on April 22 to register "Rice; and "Best Rice of the World" trademarks for the two varieties.

It is the sixth company internationally the other five being in the U.S. that is trying to appropriate the ST25 trademark.

Both the ST24 and ST25 rice varieties were developed in Vietnam by farmer-scientist Ho Quang Cua, with the latter going on to win the first prize in the 2019 Worlds Best Rice Contest held in the Philippines and the former the second prize in a 2017 contest in Macau.

"We have asked IP authorities in Australia to consider the matter and avoid possible disputes that could affect the export of ST24, ST25 rice varieties from Vietnam to Australia.

"Relevant procedures to prove the rice varieties are Vietnamese need to be accelerated," Hoa said.

Ngan Tran, director of Maygust Trademark Attorneys in the Australian capital Canberra, said it takes three to four months to carry out checks for a patent registration.

If an application meets all the requirements, the IP agency would issue a notice accepting the trademark and disclose the information. After this happens, an objection can be filed within two months, she said.

If there is no objection, the patent would be granted, she added.

The Vietnam Trade Office in Australia has also contacted the T&L company, which has said it would "check the matter with the brand department."

Vietnam is also looking to appoint a law firm in Australia to prepare necessary steps under IP Australia regulations to counter moves to takeover Vietnamese trademarks.

Ngan Tran said the trademark is protected by territory, so it does not mean it would be protected in other markets such as the U.S. and Australia. Therefore, businesses need to actively apply for protection in specific countries.

Of the five applications for ST25 submitted to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), only one by I&T Enterprise Inc. has crossed the first stage so far.

Vietnam exported rice worth $4.7 million to Australia in Q1, a year-on-year increase of 66 percent, according to the Ministry of Industry and Trade.
Joint interventions announced to stabilize the financial framework in Asia. Strengthen the agreement with Asean. Despite divisions over territorial and strategic issues, Japan and China maintain economic cooperation.

Tokyo (AsiaNews / Agencies) - The finance ministers of Japan, China and South Korea today promised targeted measures to help the countries most affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. The joint announcement was made on the side-lines of a virtual meeting of the Asian Development Bank.

The three countries believe that boosting vaccination coverage will help improve Asias economic environment in Asia. The fragile recovery needs action to ensure financial stability. The three governments also want to strengthen the safety net of ASEAN + 3, the informal group to which they belong together with the 10 countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Countries.

It would seem that Japan and China are still able to find space for cooperation in the economic field. On April 28, the Japanese Parliament ratified the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (Rcep), the largest free trade agreement in the world.

Sponsored by Beijing, the pact includes the 10 ASEAN countries, plus China, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand: it covers about 30% of the GDP and of the global population. To enter into force, it must be ratified by at least six ASEAN nations or three countries that do not belong to the Southeast Asian bloc.

However, Tokyo and Beijing remain divided on territorial and strategic issues. In its annual foreign policy report, released on April 27, the Japanese government expressed concern about Chinese military expansionism in the South China Sea and especially the East China Sea.

In this stretch of water there is an increase in China's naval activities around the Senkaku Islands, administered by Japan but claimed by the Chinese, who call them Diaoyu. According to a Yomiuri Shimbun poll released today, 95% of Japanese think Chinese operations near the Senkaku are a threat to national security.
Two people in Covid-19 epicenter Ha Nam have tested positive for the coronavirus Monday morning, its Center for Disease Control (CDC) confirmed.

The two, a 63-year-old woman and a 25-year-old man, would need more tests to confirm their results, the Center said. Both are associated with a coronavirus outbreak in the northern province's Dao Ly Commune, sparked by a man who returned from Japan and tested positive after completing his two-week centralized quarantine in Da Nang City. The man failed to quarantine himself for another 14 days as required.

So far, Ha Nam has confirmed 12 Covid-19 community transmissions since Thursday. The provincial People's Committee has already locked down a village with over 1,000 inhabitants for 28 days starting April 29 to prevent the disease from spreading. Its karaoke and massage parlors, festivals and other unnecessary large gatherings have also been suspended.

After over a month without community transmissions, Vietnam has recorded 24 new cases since April 29 located in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, northern Ha Nam, Hung Yen and Vinh Phuc provinces.

Six cases in Vinh Phuc were employees of a bar in the province who came into close contact with a group of Chinese experts who tested positive for the coronavirus after returning to China later. The remaining cases in other locations are all linked to the aforementioned Ha Nam man.

Vietnam's total coronavirus tally stands at 2,962, with 35 deaths.
Over 40 Chinese were found illegally residing in Hanoi's Nam Tu Liem District since late April amid concerns regarding recent coronavirus outbreaks in Vietnam.

Chu Xuan Dung, deputy chairman of the municipal People's Committee, on Sunday said the Chinese would be tested for Covid-19 and be transferred to a centralized quarantine zone in Hoang Mai District. They were discovered by police Sunday afternoon.

He reiterated the three main sources that pose Covid-19 risks for Hanoi are those who return to the city from other localities, those entering Vietnam legally and are put into centralized quarantine zones, and those who enter the country illegally.

Despite Hanoi's best efforts to prevent illegal entry, there are still some who manage to slip through. Citizens, especially residences like hotels, should report illegal entrants to authorities for Covid-19 prevention, he added.

After over a month without community transmissions, Vietnam has recorded 24 new cases since April 29 located in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), northern Ha Nam, Hung Yen and Vinh Phuc provinces.

Six cases in Vinh Phuc were employees of a bar in the province who came into close contact with a group of Chinese experts who tested positive with the coronavirus after returning to China later.

The remaining cases in Ha Nam, Hanoi, Hung Yen and HCMC are all linked to a Ha Nam man who returned from Japan and tested positive after completing his two-week centralized quarantine in Da Nang City. This man failed to quarantine himself for another 14 days as required.

Vietnam's total coronavirus tally stands at 2,962, with 35 deaths.
Border guards patrol in southern Binh Phuoc Province patrol the Cambodia border in April 2021. Photo by VnExpress/Thai Ha.

Vietnam sent 314 military personnel to the Cambodia border Sunday to prevent illegal entry into the country as the latter experiences a spike in Covid-19 cases.

In Tay Ninh, 258 personnel will be patrolling open and remote trails with border guards to prevent people crossing illegally.

Meanwhile, 56 soldiers in Binh Phuoc have arrived at the border guard post to help prevent smuggling and the potential spread of Covid-19.

Tay Ninh boasts a 240 kilometer border with Cambodia, along which authorities have set up 129 posts with over on-duty 600 personnel.

Binh Phuoc Province has set up 62 posts and 11 stations along its 260 kilometer border.

Vietnam has also dispatched hundreds of military personnel to the Laos border to ensure no one enters the country illegally, possibly bringing with them the coronavirus. The Vietnam-Laos border runs 2,161 kilometers (1,342 miles) across 10 northern and central provinces.

Vietnam has recorded 24 community Covid-19 cases since April 29. The nations Covid-19 tally of 2,962 cases to date includes 2,549 recoveries and 35 deaths.
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The United States is concerned about the recent arrests of four Vietnamese journalists. #FreeThePress
The United States condemns the sentencing of seven pro-democracy leaders on politically-motivated charges, said Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Their so-called crime was participating in peaceful demonstrations in 2019 against Beijings encroachment on Hong Kongers fundamental freedoms.

The pro-democracy leaders sentenced include Martin Lee, Jimmy Lai, Albert Ho, Margaret Ng, Cyd Ho, Lee Cheuk-yan, and Leung Kwok-hung. Five of the defendants received jail sentences of eight to 18 months, and others were handed suspended sentences, including Hong Kong Democratic Party founding chairman Martin Lee. Secretary Blinken called the sentences incompatible with the non-violent nature of [the pro-democracy leaders] actions.

Some of the activists, such as Jimmy Lai, the 73-year-old founder of a pro-democracy newspaper in Hong Kong, face additional charges, including under a sweeping national security law Beijing imposed on Hong Kong in 2020, which grants Beijing broad powers to crack down on a variety of purported political crimes.

Secretary Blinken decried the sentencing of pro-democracy activists as yet another example of how the [Peoples Republic of China] and Hong Kong authorities undermine protected rights and fundamental freedoms guaranteed by the Basic Law and the Sino-British Joint Declaration in an effort to eliminate all forms of dissent.

The Sino-British Joint Declaration, a binding international agreement, guarantees Hong Kong a high degree of autonomy, and people in Hong Kong should be entitled to the rights and freedoms guaranteed in the Joint Declaration and Basic Law.

The United States will continue to stand with Hong Kongers as they respond to Beijings assault on their freedoms and autonomy and will continue to call for the release of those detained or imprisoned for exercising their fundamental freedoms.
The United States Agency for International Development, or USAID, announced $100,000 in humanitarian assistance for people affected by the violent eruption of La Soufriere Volcano in early April. The assistance will go to help the estimated 20,000 people of St. Vincent who have been evacuated by local authorities for an undetermined amount of time.

La Soufriere Volcano began showing signs of increased activity in December 2020. An explosive eruption occurred on April 9, sending clouds of ash several miles into the air, resulting in heavy ashfall across the island. Repeated eruptions have continued for more than a week.

The assistance will go to the Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Red Cross to provide immediate humanitarian assistance to evacuees, including emergency food, safe drinking water, and shelter supplies. More than 6,000 people took shelter in emergency evacuation sites. USAID is coordinating closely with local and regional disaster response authorities and organizations, including the local governments National Emergency Management Organization, which is leading the emergency response.

The United Nations reported the priority needs of populations in evacuation shelters and other affected communities included food, health, water, sanitation, and hygiene assistance. In addition, the volcanic activity damaged agricultural land and infrastructure on the island, and water systems were not operational due to contamination risk. The government of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is conducting assessments of these affected areas.

The joint USAID-United States Geological Survey Volcano Disaster Assistance Program also continues to support the University of the West Indies Seismic research center to monitor La Soufriere Volcano, as it is unknown how long the eruption will continue. These teams have increased collaboration since the volcanos activity increased last December.

The United States is committed to working closely with organizations and governments to provide assistance to people affected by the eruption of La Soufriere Volcano in St. Vincent.

For information on how individuals can help, please go to www.cidi.org.
May 1

Dillon R. Hill, 27, of Elko was arrested at 1575 Lamoille Highway on a bench warrant. Bail: $360

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Dalton L. Kaady, 22, of Fallon was arrested on Interstate-80 overpass for driving under the influence. Bail: $1,140

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Travis B. Kelson, 39, of West Valley City, Utah was arrested on a warrant for felony possession of a controlled substance, possession to sell a controlled substance, burglary of a business, and four counts of intent to utter a fictitious bill, note or check. Bail: $45,000

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Robert E. Lee, 22, of Elko was arrested at Last Chance and Buzzard roads for destroying the property of another and operating an unregistered vehicle. Bail: $1,335

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Jodie E. Longtree, 21, of Elko was arrested at 1702 Sagebrush Drive on four Bureau of Indian Affairs tribal charges. Bail: $2,000

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Michael L. Lujan, 41, of Colfax, California was arrested on U.S. Highway 93 for false statement to obstruct a public officer, fugitive felon from another state, and bribery of other public officer.
Tens of millions of people in this country have experienced violence, abuse, and sexual assault. These are traumatic experiences, often made all the worse for survivors by the legal system.

Now theres a movement underway to change that. In university law classes and training programs for established attorneys, trauma awareness is gaining traction in law practices across the country.

At its root, trauma awareness is about assessing trauma and trauma symptoms in all routine practices and then asking: What happened to you? not What is wrong with you? said Deeya Haldar, co-author of The Pedagogy of Trauma Informed Lawyering.

The shift in thinking first started in the field of mental health about a decade ago. Now trauma awareness in the legal system is a significant trend, said Eva Klain, a Washington D.C.-based attorney and a spokesperson for the American Bar Association.

Though super late to the party, lawyers are trying frantically to catch up because so much of what is going on in our clients lives is dictated by their trauma, said Sarah Reisman, a supervising attorney at the Community Legal Aid SoCAL, an organization that advocates for people who earn low wages.
Two House representatives, Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) and Rep. Jimmy Panetta (D-CA), have followed the Presidents lead and introduced a bill that would provide first-time homebuyers with a tax credit valued at 10% of the propertys purchase value, up to $15,000.

Rep. Blumenauer stated that the legislation would help those who have been historically shut out of the housing market as prices and demand continue to rise to unprecedented levels. The act would target low and middle-income families in the United States, particularly families of color, and would who have been subjected to decades of discriminatory and racist housing policies that have left massive wealth, homeownership, and opportunity gaps between white communities and communities of color.

The representatives have released data that indicates that this sort of federal intervention is necessary as levels of Black homeownership have not increased since 1996. Meanwhile, the levels for Latinx, Asians, and white homeowners have increased steadily.

Housing market in 2020

Many experts who study trends in the housing market thought that the market might slow down considerably during the pandemic. To their surprise, just the opposite occurred, with the market increasing 5.6% compared to 2019. The market may stabilize in the coming year as fewer people expect to make the types of moves they did last year while settling into the "new normal." To date, price increases are driven by a low supply in the market that is expected to continue throughout 2021.

Requirements to qualify for the new tax credit

The Act defines a first type homebuyers as a person who has not bought a home in the last three years. Additionally, to target the tax credit at families who need this type of assistance to make their home buying dreams a reality, the proposal outlines a few requirements:

 Income: The tax credit can only be given to recipients whose income is no more than 160% of the median income in the area.

 Property Value: The property can be worth no more than 110% of the median house price in the area.

 Residence Type: The credit can be claimed for houses used as primary residences but could not be used for a vacation home.

Additionally, there are limits on the number of houses that could be claimed.

Past initiatives

In the wake of the 2008 Financial Crisis, Congress passed the Housing and Economic Recovery Act to instill confidence in the housing market. The federal government understood that people who had bought their houses just before, during, and even after the housing market collapse could find themselves underwater on their mortgage.

The tax credit passed covered homes purchased between April 2008 and July 2009 and allowed homebuyers to claim a credit of up to 10% of the purchase price, up to $7,500. More than 1.5 million homebuyers claimed this benefit before it expired in 2010. Since the 2008 collapse, economists have warned that younger generations, who are burdened with student loan debt, are not buying houses at the same level as their parents or grandparents. With the amount of student debt owed in the US at topping historic levels, this proposed tax credit and student debt cancellation could give the economic recovery needed after the pandemic ends a jolt of energy. With less income going to pay back debt, consumers would have a higher disposable income which they could use to stimulate the grow the economy or save for a rainy day.

When would the tax credit be available?

If passed this year, the credit could be available as soon as next year. But, the legislative future of the initiative remains unclear. The legislation was introduced on 26 April and will now move into committee for review by other House members. If the House of Representatives votes to approve the Bill, it will move to the Senate, where it will face an uphill battle.

The initiative has not been included under the American Families Plan, but during negotiations, the measure could be added.
The state reported that 81.1% of residents 65 or older have received at least their first dose of a vaccine as of Monday. In addition, 65.3% of Marylanders 50 to 64, 48.7% of those 18 to 49, and 34% of 16- and 17-year-olds have gotten their first doses, according to the health department.
Independent experts of the Nomination Committee for the appointment of heads of enterprises of critical importance for the economy announced the suspension of work in Ukraine pending the clarification of the action plan for the reform of corporate governance and the definition of a clear commitment of the government to respect the institutions of corporate governance, the Internet publication Ekonomichna Pravda (Economic Truth) has reported with reference to the source.

This information was confirmed to Interfax-Ukraine by one of the organizations, which representative is included in the nomination committee.

The letter is addressed to Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, Economy Minister Ihor Petrashko and Finance Minister Serhiy Marchenko.

"Unfortunately, there have been many recent examples of corporate governance practices being replaced by discretionary government decisions. This undermines the long-term expectations of corporate governance reform. It also calls into question the value of the Committee for nomination and selection of independent professional board members with impeccable integrity," the Ekonomichna Pravda said, citing the text of the letter.

In the document, independent experts of the Nomination Committee also pointed to the need to complement the independence of supervisory boards with a transparent and stable accountability mechanism.

"The revised nomination process, presented in 2018, was a welcome step in this direction [towards corporate governance reform], and we were pleased to support it and participate in it as observers without the right to vote," the letter also said.

According to the information of Interfax-Ukraine, since May 1, due to the non-selected independent members by the nomination committee, there are no supervisory boards in 12 large companies, the controlling stakes of which have been transferred to the State Property Fund of Ukraine. In particular, this list includes Odesa Port-Side Plant, Centrenergo, Turboatom, Energotyazhmash, five state-controlled regional gas supplying companies (excluding Ternopiloblenergo), Kharkivenergozbyt, Dnipro and Kryvy Rih combined heat and power plants.

According to Ukrainian legislation and regulatory framework, in the supervisory boards of the largest state-owned companies, the majority of members should be independent; they are selected by a recruiter and a nomination committee with advisory votes of donors, and approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

The nomination committee is headed by Regional Manager for Belarus and Ukraine at International Finance Corporation (IFC) Jason Brett Pellmar. The committee includes, in addition to government representatives, independent members  Managing Director, Eastern Europe and the Caucasus (EEC) at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) Matteo Patrone, IMF Resident Representative in Ukraine Goesta Ljungman, and Business Ombudsman Marcin Swiecicki.
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky, together with the Presidents of Poland, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia, signed a declaration on cooperation between states and support for the fundamental principles of democracy, the presidential press service has reported.

"We approach with understanding and support the persistent strivings of all the peoples of our region, with whom our nations are joined by common historical fate, and who wish to enjoy today, just as we do, the blessings of freedom and democracy while courageously demanding that their rights be respected. We believe that to all of us the solidarity of nations, especially under current threats to our common security, is one of the cornerstones of peace, stability, development, prosperity and resilience," according to the joint declaration of the Presidents, published on the website of the head of the Ukrainian state.

As stated in the declaration, Ukraine, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia are "committed to continuing the dialogue and cooperation."

"Mindful of the historical experiences, proud of the achievements of our contemporary cooperation in the region and conscious of the challenges, we look with hope to the future. We express the conviction that the prosperity of our common heritage and common home, rooted in the European civilization, demands that, just like home, also Europe be built on the basis of fundamental values and principles. These are with no doubt: freedom, sovereignty, territorial integrity, democracy, the rule of law, equality and solidarity," the document said.

Also, the declaration said that "a uniting Europe should remain open to all countries and nations which share the above-mentioned values."

According to the declaration, "the Presidents of Poland, Estonia, Ukraine, Latvia and Lithuania, meet in Warsaw today in order to jointly celebrate the 230th anniversary of the adoption of the 3 May Constitution."

"The passing of that momentous Act in 1791, regulating the legal system of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, was of historic importance since it marked the first modern state effective fundamental law on our continent and the second one worldwide," the declaration said.
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky, at the summit with the Presidents of Poland, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia, said about the importance of supporting Ukraine by European countries in the conditions of the occupation of Crimea and the war in Donbas, since "this is a war in Europe."

"I want to thank you for your attention to Ukraine. International partners constantly support Ukraine, our territorial integrity and our sovereignty. I am grateful to you all. Today it is very important. When part of Ukraine is annexed  our Crimean peninsula and when we have a war in the east. This is the war in Europe. It is very important that we are together," Zelensky said during his speech at the summit of the heads of Ukraine, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia, which was broadcast on the official Facebook page of the President's Office.

Zelensky said that "Ukraine, like European countries, wants to live in a democratic world."

"We [with the EU countries] have the same aspirations and views, but different experiences. For many years Ukraine fought for its independence. And today the same is happening in the east of our country, where we are again defending our independence," the President said.

He also added that "someone has always written laws for Ukraine, it has always been a part of this or that empire, and therefore Ukrainians are always skeptical about legality, law, and international laws."

The head of state recalled that "the first Ukrainian Constitution was written by Pylyp Orlyk in the 18th century, but it was proclaimed only in 1996." In addition, Zelensky noted that Ukraine was part of the USSR for a long time.

"I myself was born in the USSR. And I want to say that there were pluses and minuses. But we understand that people there did not have the right to freedom of speech, to the right to choose, and to the right to private property," he said.
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky said that Poland and its current President Andrzej Duda support Ukrainians and Ukraine's aspirations to the North Atlantic Alliance.

"Poland always supports Ukraine, the Ukrainian people. And so I had to be here [...] I also want to thank Andrzej Duda, for once again assuring Ukraine of support, in advocacy of our country regarding NATO membership. This is a very important signal for us. And I am grateful that Poland, led by President Duda, protects our sovereignty and our territorial integrity and does not recognize the illegal annexation of Crimea by the Russian Federation," Zelensky said during a joint press briefing with Polish President Andrzej Duda on the future of European politics.

Zelensky also expressed the hope that "in the near future, problematic issues between Ukraine and Poland will be resolved."

"I know that we have some historical issues with Poland, but I am sure that there will be no such issues between our countries in the near future, because we understand each other perfectly," the President added.

In addition, the head of state greeted Duda on the 230th anniversary of adopting the Polish Constitution and invited him to Kyiv for the Crimean Platform summit.

"I am waiting for Andrzej Duda together with the first lady at the summit of the Crimean Platform in the days of the 30th anniversary of Ukraine's Independence. This will be very important for us. This will be the first important summit where only our friends and partners will be. This is a summit that is associated with the de-occupation of the Crimean peninsula," the President said.
The 11th Congress of the HCM City Party Committee (2020-2025 tenure) has designed 26 development targets for the term across five areas, including the GRDP growing 8% on average annually, the digital economy contributing 25% to the GRDP by 2025 and 40% by 2030, the social labour productivity expanding 7% on average annually, and at least 95% of the people being satisfied with the service of state administrative agencies in each field.

To achieve these goals, HCM City has outlined four development programmes with dozens of specific projects. A significant programme to the citys economic growth and development is the key programme for the development of businesses, innovative entrepreneurship and key products. This programme consists of 13 specific programmes and projects, such as programmes to support the development of enterprises and products in the areas of information technology and communications (ICT), mechanics and automation, and food processing in the period of 2020-2030; a project on developing HCM City into a regional and international financial centre; and support policies for the sharing economy, the digital economy and the circular economy between 2020-2025.

HCM City has also identified many groups of solutions in order to achieve the targets and tasks set out by the 11th Congress of the municipal Party Committee. Accordingly, the city will continue to renovate its economic growth model in a rapid and sustainable manner on the basis of science-technology application and development, with science-technology and innovation as the main driver of socio-economic and cultural development. In addition, administrative procedure reform will be accelerated with more practical and specific solutions.

Among the development tasks, becoming a regional and international financial centre is considered one of HCM Citys key goals in the near future, and is also a burning aspiration of the city for many years. This task has been included in the citys 10-year socio-economic development strategy (2021-2030). In March 2021, the municipal Peoples Committee submitted a document proposing the Prime Minister approve the citys plan to develop a project on building a regional and international financial centre in the locality.

HCM City possesses many advantages to form and develop itself into a regional and international financial centre in the near future. First of all, in recent years, the city has been a locomotive and a main driver of Vietnams economy, contributing about 23% of the countrys GDP and about 27% of the national budget. On average, HCM City has attracted more than 33% of the total number of foreign direct investment (FDI) projects in Vietnam. The density of financial institutions in the city is the highest compared to other localities, while the total mobilised capital of local credit institutions accounts for 24% of the countrys total sum. Its total outstanding loans also account for 28% of that of the entire economy. Moreover, HCM City is the birthplace of Vietnams first stock market, with the total market capitalisation at the Ho Chi Minh City Stock Exchange accounting for more than 77% of the national total and 51.27% of the countrys GDP in 2020.

According to Chairman of the municipal Peoples Committee Nguyen Thanh Phong, the formation of a regional and international-level financial centre in HCM City will create a positive and pervasive effect for the southern region and the whole Vietnamese economy. Capital supply for the countrys development will be more plentiful when attracting more foreign financial institutions and international investment flows. Furthermore, the fact that the city becomes a regional and international financial centre will contribute to more effectively exploiting the economic potential of the southern key economic region and the country as a whole.

Towards the goal of becoming a regional and international financial centre, HCM City is aiming to become a national financial centre in the short term. In the medium term, the city aspires to become a regional financial centre with a large concentration scale, providing financial services for neighbouring countries and then expanding to countries in ASEAN and across Asia. In the long term, the financial centre in HCM City will become the destination of leading financial institutions and economic organisations in the region and the world. Prof. Dr. Su Dinh Thanh, Rector of the University of Economics HCM City, said that in order to become a regional and international financial centre, the citys financial system should be developed synchronously. Accordingly, HCM City should focus on developing the system of financial, monetary, bond and stock markets; property management technology; and financial services; as well as strengthening the global network of financial technology and perfecting the monitoring system and financial regulations.
NA Standing Committee convenes 55th session

National Assembly (NA) Chairman Vuong Dinh Hue chaired the 55th session of the 14th NAs Standing Committee, which was held in Hanoi on April 27 to review the outcomes of the 11th meeting of the 14th NA and give initial opinions on the preparations for the 15th legislatures first session.

Participants discussed and made decisions on issues related to establishing and adjusting administrative boundaries in the capital city of Hanoi, and the provinces of Thanh Hoa, Dong Nai and Tuyen Quang; the boundary adjustment to expand Hue City of Thua Thien-Hue Province and arrangement of wards in Hue City.

They also debated on plans to use the remaining savings and budget sources of the central budget in 2020, and the supplementary funding for purchasing vaccines, antiseptic chemicals, and national crop seeds.

Deputy PM sends message to 77th Session of UNESCAP

On April 27, Deputy Prime Minister Pham Binh Minh sent a video message to the 77th Session of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission of Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) at the invitation of A.S.Alisjahbana, UN Under-Secretary General cum UNESCAP Executive Secretary.

The 77th Session of the UNESCAP was attended by Presidents and Prime Ministers of 18 countries, including the Presidents of Indonesia and Afghanistan and the Prime Ministers of Cambodia and Pakistan. In their remarks, they shared experience in pandemic prevention and control, called for strengthening multilateral cooperation, and suggested UNESCAP continue in its role of coordinating cooperation and information and experience sharing at the regional level.

The four-day session, themed Building back better from crises through regional cooperation in Asia and the Pacific, will wrap up on April 29.

Quang Tri: Flag-raising ceremony held to mark Reunification Day





National flag being raised at the Hien Luong - Ben Hai historic site in Vinh Linh District, Quang Tri Province, on April 30, 2021. (Photo: NDO/Lam Quang Huy)

A flag-raising ceremony was solemnly held by the central province of Quang Tri at the Hien Luong - Ben Hai special national monument on April 30 to mark the 46th anniversary of the Liberation of the South and National Reunification Day.

At 7:00 am, the national flag was raised to the peak of the monument while the national anthem was played.

Meetings, art shows and exhibitions were held in localities to celebrate the occasion.

Local authorities also visited and presented gifts to families of contributors to national reunification.

Vietnams digital economy to hit US$52 billion by 2025

Vietnams digital economy will likely reach US$52 billion in value by 2025, according to the e-Conomy SEA 2019 report by Google, Temasek and Bain & Company.

With the gross merchandise value (GMV) of its internet economy accounting for over 5% of the country's GDP in 2019, Vietnam is emerging as the most digital economy in the region, the report said.

Last year, the Vietnamese internet economy continued to record double-digit growth, at 16% year-on-year, the highest in Southeast Asia.

The report noted all sectors except travel continued to grow in 2020, of which transport and food, and online media grew 50% and 18%, respectively, compared to 2019. Only online travel dropped 28% in terms of GMV, but is expected to grow 25% by 2025.

Vietnamese scientists among Asias top 100: Singapore magazine





The five Vietnamese scientists in the 2021 edition of the Asian Scientist 100 (Photo: vnexpress.net)

Five Vietnamese scientists have been named in the 2021 edition of Asian Scientist 100, an annual listing of the brilliant scientific talents in the region by Singapores Asian Scientist magazine.

They are Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tran Thi Thu Ha of Thai Nguyen University, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vuong Thi Ngoc Lan from the University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Ho Chi Minh City, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Le Thi Quynh Mai from the National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology (NIHE). Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pham Tien Son of Da Lat University and Dr. Nguyen Truong Thanh Hieu from Ton Duc Thang University also made it onto the list.

This years list features the achievements of the researchers, innovators and leaders tackling the worlds most pressing issues, from climate change to COVID-19. To qualify for the list, honorees must have won a national or international prize in 2020. Alternatively, they must have a significant accomplishment in scientific discovery or leadership that benefits academia or industry.

First Miss Earth Vietnam launched

The first ever Miss Earth Vietnam was launched during a press conference held in Lac Duong District in the Central Highlands province of Lam Dong on April 28.

The contests online preliminary will start from May, while an in-person round will take place in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City from August. The semi-final is scheduled for November and the finale a month later.

The Vietnamese version will have four winners at the same time, including Miss Earth, Miss Earth Air, Miss Earth Water and Miss Earth Fire, who will walk home with a prize worth VND 5.6 billion (US$245,000) in total.

Miss Earth will represent Vietnam at the annual international environmental-themed beauty competition and receive additional VND 1 billion from a local business.

Vietnam Day at MGIMO returns to Russia





An art performance at the event (Photo: NDO)

The Vietnam Day at MGIMO (Moscow State Institute of International Relations) returned to the Russian capital city on April 29 (local time). The festival was hosted by Vietnamese students at MGIMO in partnership with the institutes ASEAN Centre.

A highlight of the festival was a workshop on Vietnam in todays international affairs, which attracted a large number of experts and students of Vietnamese studies from leading universities in Russia.

A trade fair of Vietnamese goods, a photo exhibition on Vietnams people and nature, and events introducing Vietnamese culture and cuisine to Russian students were also held as part of the festival.

Phu Quoc among worlds 15 best islands to retire on

Phu Quoc Island of the Mekong Delta province of Kien Giang has been named among 15 best islands in the world to retire on in 2021 by www.travelawaits.com.

Experts covering overseas retirement trends for more than 40 years have released their latest picks, said the tourism website.

Criteria for top 15 list include the ability to live a simpler, more peaceful life, without breaking the bank, it added.

The website noted that the relaxed and small island of Phu Quoc may be a bit more expensive to live on than the mainland since goods need to be flown or ferried in.

Still, its appealing to retirees for its many beaches and opportunities for enjoying the outdoors in tropical weather. The snorkelling is excellent! it affirmed.
Madrilenos flocked to the polls on Tuesday morning in a regional election thats being widely viewed as a test with national repercussions in an increasingly polarized country.

Early turnout figures suggested that an unusually acrimonious campaign has galvanized voters of all political stripes into action. Turnout by 7pm was at 69.14%  that is up 11 points compared to the last election, which was held in 2019. The record high was seen in 1995, with 70.3% turnout. At 1pm, turnout was at 28.4%, up from the 26.2% seen at the same time at the election two years ago.

The vote comes two years ahead of schedule following a decision to hold a snap election taken by Madrid premier Isabel Diaz Ayuso, who is seeking to reinforce her hold over a political and economic powerhouse thats been governed by her conservative Popular Party (PP) party for the last 26 years.

A lot is at stake for all political parties involved, and the campaign has been marked by epic rhetoric framing the ballot as a choice between freedom and communism for some, and between democracy and fascism for others. In a further sign of the current political climate, several candidates received death threats in the mail, forcing the government to step up security even as the campaign descended into a toxic exchange of accusations.

Following an intense two weeks, interest in the snap election is running high. A total of 5,112,658 residents are eligible to vote for the 136 representatives who will sit in the regional assembly for the next two years. Madrid authorities noted that this is a new voter record for a regional election, and said there were 259,411 requests for mail-in voting, representing a 41% rise from 2019. According to the regional government, there have been requests for mail-in votes from 121 countries, mostly the United Kingdom (4,464), Germany (3,972), France (3,021) and the United States (2,752).

The coronavirus pandemic is also having an effect on the election in a region with a 14-day incidence rate significantly above the governments danger threshold. Voting stations will remain open to the public between 9am and 8pm, and people who have an active coronavirus infection, or suspect they may have, have been asked to go vote as late in the evening as possible. The regional government has purchased more than 55,000 liters of hand sanitizer, nearly five million face masks and two million gloves for distribution at voting booths.

The right: all or nothing

PP candidate Isabel Diaz Ayuso at a rally on April 30 in Mostoles (Madrid). Cezaro De Luca / Europa Press

For Diaz Ayuso, its an all-or-nothing gamble: if she were to win the most votes and seats yet lose the government to a leftist coalition, it would represent a major blow not just for her but also for the PPs national president Pablo Casado, who is hoping for a success in Madrid that will lead to a wider victory at the next national election, scheduled for 2023.

On Sunday  May 2, a regional holiday celebrating Madrids uprising against Napoleons occupation forces in the early 1800s  Diaz Ayuso resorted to history to frame her own bid for re-election. We continue to defend the same cause: Spain and freedom, she told the assembled crowd. Madrids problem is Pedro Sanchez, she added, alluding to Spains Socialist Party (PSOE) prime minister.

Vox candidate Rocio Monasterio at a rally in Valdemoro (Madrid) on April 28. Victor Sainz

If the PP holds on to power but requires additional backing to form a majority, it will become beholden to the far-right party Vox. The ultranationalist group has so far been providing support to some local and regional conservative governments in Spain without demanding to be made an official governing partner. But this strategy could end on Tuesday.

Vox brought its campaign to a close in Colon square, with party leader Santiago Abascal there to support Madrid candidate Rocio Monasterio. Abascal said that his partys goal was to prevent the social-communist assault on the Madrid region, although he failed to specify whether he would be demanding regional Cabinet posts in exchange for supporting the PP.

The left: getting out the vote

Unidas Podemos candidate Pablo Iglesias at a rally in Alcorcon (Madrid) on Saturday. Santi Burgos

The left has been campaigning hard to regain control of Madrid, which is the Spanish region with the third-largest population and the biggest budget. To do so, it is hoping to mobilize voters in large numbers on Tuesday. Prime Minister Sanchez attended a Socialist Party (PSOE) campaign rally in Entrevias, one of Madrids poorest districts, where he warned against the dangers of granting victory to hate and intolerance.

The PSOE is hoping that its Madrid candidate, the veteran politician Angel Gabilondo, will help the left take back power in a region where it keeps hitting a wall. Gabilondo warned that if we dont go [vote], we will lose it all and it will be too late. The 72-year-old will be making his third attempt at becoming the Madrid premier after failing in 2015 and 2019.

Mas Madrid candidate Monica Garcia on Sunday in Madrid's Cuesta de Moyano. Victor Lerena / EFE

Meanwhile, the head of Unidas Podemos, Pablo Iglesias, quit his job as deputy prime minister in the national coalition government in order to run in the Madrid election and fight the enemies of democracy. He has compared Diaz Ayuso with former US president Donald Trump and with Brazils Jair Bolsonaro. What do you think will happen if they lose? Havent you seen it at the Capitol? he said, alluding to the January 6 storming of the US Capitol by a mob of Trump supporters attempting to halt the certification of Joe Biden as the new president.

The lefts attempt at unity is further hampered by the surge of a new party, Mas Madrid  an offshoot of Podemos led by one of the latter partys co-founders, Inigo Errejon  that is attracting a large following among young and female voters. Mas Madrid candidate Monica Garcia has insisted on the idea of a left united against a right that views freedom as the freedom to walk all over people and ignore society. But she has also refused to run in coalition with Iglesias, stating that we women are tired of doing the dirty work and then being asked to step aside at historical moments.

PSOE candidate Angel Gabilondo is making his third attempt at the regional premiership. Jesus Briones / GTRES

The center: fighting for survival

The Madrid election will also decide the future of Spains political center. If Ciudadanos (Citizens) does not attract at least five percent of the vote, it will be left out of the regional parliament and will not be able to play the role of kingmaker.

After starting out as a liberal party that made great strides in a short space of time  it became the fourth-largest force in Spanish parliament at the 2015 national election, won the most votes at the 2017 Catalan election, and has been the junior partner in the Madrid government for the last two years  Ciudadanos lost significant support when it veered to the right in a bid to compete with the PP for the center-right space.

Ciudadanos candidate Edmundo Bal at a campaign event on April 28. Daniel Gonzalez / GTRES

With the partys entire survival on the line, its candidate Edmundo Bal on Sunday reached out one final time to those who believe in social harmony and dialogue. Despite presenting himself as a moderate alternative, Bal has already made a choice, stating that he would only support a government by Diaz Ayuso.

With additional reporting by Juana Viudez.

English version by Susana Urra.
The Covid-19 vaccination drive in Spain is racing ahead. More than 8.33 million doses were administered in the month of April, outstripping the 8.04 million administered in the first quarter of 2021. Thats according to data from the Spanish Health Ministry, published on Friday.

The immunization campaign began on December 27, 2020, but only a dozen people received a shot in the last four days of that month. Since then, the speed of the rollout has steadily increased and on April 30, a new record was set for the number of doses administered in one day  504,823. This is the first time more than half a million shots have been injected in a single day.

And its just not the total number of doses administered that has risen sharply. In just 30 days, the number of people who have received at least one shot has jumped from a little over five million to nearly 12 million. Meanwhile, a total of 4.7 million people have received the two doses needed for the full protection of the vaccines by Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna and Oxford-AstraZeneca  up from 2.7 million a month ago. Once the use of the Covid-19 vaccine developed by Janssen becomes more widespread, comparing the number of people with the first and second doses will be less important, as the medication only requires a single shot for full protection. As of today, only 89,000 doses of the Janssen vaccine have been administered.

As the vaccination drive has quickened, the mortality rate from the coronavirus has fallen. In April, Spain recorded 2,757 Covid-19 fatalities, the lowest figure since September last year.

The progress is very positive, says Jose Luis Alfonso, professor of preventive medicine and public health at Valencia University. Most people over the age of 70 are protected and there is increasing protection of those between 60 and 70, as well as health workers and essential workers. This has led to a very significant fall in the mortality rate as well as hospital admissions.

Breakdown by age

According to the latest Health Ministry report, all of the 80-and-over population have received at least one dose and 88.8% have received the two shots needed for the full protection provided by the vaccines from Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna and Oxford-AstraZeneca. With respect to the 70-79 age group, the figure is 78.9% and 13.9%, respectively. And in the case of the 60-69 population, 51.6% have received the first dose and 5.7% the complete two shots.

So far, the Pfizer vaccine has been used the most in Spain. A total of 11.4 million doses have been administered, accounting for 69.5% of the total. Spain is expected to receive 43 million shots of this medication by the end of September.

The AstraZeneca vaccine is in second place, with 3,8 million doses administered. Its rollout, however, has been set back by shipment delays and changes in the Health Ministrys criteria. The medication was initially restricted to the under-60s due to lack of evidence of its effectiveness in older age groups, but this changed after rare cases of thrombosis were detected in younger patients. The vaccine is now limited to the 60-69 age group. The European Medicines Agency (EMA), which investigated the cases, found that the benefits of the vaccines outweighed its risks, given that the chance of developing a serious reaction were one in 100,000.

A total of 1.05 million doses of the Moderna vaccine have been administered so far in Spain. More than 43 million doses of the vaccine, which like the Pfizer medication is based on messenger RNA techniques, are expected to arrive by September 30.

Single-dose shots

The Janssen single-dose vaccine, made by a unit of Johnson & Johnson, is expected to double the rate of vaccination in Spain. Around 17.6 million doses are expected to arrive between now and September.

Spains regions have evidenced notable differences in the speed at which they administer the doses sent weekly by the Health Ministry. To date, the fastest ones have been Andalusia (which has injected 98.5% of all received vaccines), Extremadura (97.6%) and the Valencia region (97.1%). The slowest ones are the Basque Country (86.6%), Murcia (86.9%) and Galicia (89%). The national average is 92.9%.

English version by Melissa Kitson.
KYODO NEWS - May 3, 2021 - 23:44 | All, Japan

Key members of Japan's Defense Ministry and troops were wary in 2011 that the U.S. military would take control of the response to the nuclear crisis at the Fukushima Daiichi complex, according to the former head of the Joint Staff and others involved.

The latest accounts by current and former Defense Ministry officials and Self-Defense Forces members laid bare heightened tensions between the allies over the initial response to the worst nuclear crisis since Chernobyl.

Rescue and relief operations following the 2011 earthquake and tsunami dubbed "Operation Tomodachi" are now widely known in Japan as having symbolized the strength of the bilateral alliance.

The U.S. military's move to form a joint support force led by the commander of the Pacific Fleet had triggered anxiety over the extent of Japan's control in the run-up to its launch in March 2011, according to the accounts.

"The SDF is a symbol of sovereignty. We wanted to avoid a relationship in which the United States would take control and Japan would only follow (the United States)," Ryoichi Oriki, former chief of the Joint Staff told Kyodo News.

The U.S. military told the SDF on March 18, 2011 about the formation of a joint support force involving the army, navy, air force and Marine Corps and the commander of the Pacific Fleet would take the leadership, according to the accounts.

Bilateral coordination continued until March 24 when the joint support force was set up for the first time in Japan.

"We were beginning to feel we could work well with U.S. forces in Japan so (the formation of the joint support force) was quite surprising," said Koichi Isobe, who supported Oriki as head of the planning and policy division of the Joint Staff.

The SDF normally communicates with U.S. forces in Japan instead of the Pacific Fleet based in Hawaii.

Frustration had grown over the lack of information provided by Japan about the status of the nuclear reactors at the Fukushima plant.

Against such a backdrop, the joint support force was set up primarily to provide humanitarian assistance, cooperate in responding to the nuclear disaster, and protect U.S. citizens in Japan, according to Isobe.

The handling of the Fukushima crisis by the government led by the then Democratic Party of Japan sparked criticism at home, including its initial response and provision of updates on the situation at the power plant that suffered triple meltdowns.

"There was a sense of bewilderment that the United States had given up leaving it up to Japan because information-sharing was not done accordingly," a senior Defense Ministry official said.

Despite worries about the U.S. military exerting control over the SDF, the joint support force did not have that authority, with one senior Defense Ministry official saying that the U.S. side was being careful not to be seen as "placing the SDF under its control."

The SDF and the U.S. military have been enhancing their interoperability based on the long-time security alliance. Operation Tomodachi, named with the Japanese word "friend," involved a total of 16,000 personnel, including nuclear experts dispatched by the U.S. military.

Oriki said the first joint operation of such a large scale was meaningful in showcasing the strength of the bilateral alliance and in terms of deterrence.

"It should be highly appreciated that (the U.S. side) provided knowledge about nuclear power" to the Japanese government and plant operator Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings Inc., Oriki said.

TEPCO plans to decommission the Fukushima plant between 2041 and 2051 but faces hurdles. The government has decided to start discharging, in small amounts, treated radioactive water at the complex into the Pacific Ocean in about two years' time, though opposition remains.

Related coverage:

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KYODO NEWS - May 3, 2021 - 23:53 | All, Japan

Former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Monday expressed support for his successor Yoshihide Suga's re-election as leader of Japan's major ruling party in its leadership race later this year.

Prime Minister Suga is serving the remainder of the term for Abe, who stepped down last year due to ill health. The term ends at the end of September, making it necessary for the Liberal Democratic Party to hold an election to pick its next leader.

"Are we going to have a different president after a year? It's natural for Mr. Suga to stay on," Abe said during a BS Fuji TV program. "If you are a party member, you should use your common sense."

Suga had served as Abe's right-hand man and the public face of the Abe administration since 2012 as chief Cabinet secretary. Before stepping down, Abe faced criticism about his government's handling of the coronavirus pandemic and some speculated that a rift had emerged between him and Suga.

Suga himself has also come under fire for the COVID-19 response and public dissatisfaction has grown as vaccine rollouts have been slow and the country is still struggling to stem rising coronavirus cases. Populous areas such as Tokyo and Osaka have been placed under a state of emergency over the virus for a third time.

"If Japanese people choose Prime Minister Suga in an election, is the LDP going to change the outcome? That's not right," Abe told the TV program, referring to the possibility of a general election before the party's presidential election.

As the current four-year term for members of the House of Representatives is set to expire in October, a general election has to be held by this fall.

The LDP and its coalition partner Komeito currently control both houses of parliament.
None of the three vaccines currently authorized for use in the U.S. is available for children under 16. But that segment of the population is critical to the vaccination campaign, pushing the country closer toward abating the coronavirus pandemic and reaching herd immunity, or the threshold of protection against COVID-19 in which the virus runs out of hosts, and infections, hospitalizations and deaths plummet.
KYODO NEWS - May 3, 2021 - 20:20 | All, World, Coronavirus, Japan

Asian finance chiefs said Monday they expect their economies, hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic, to recover this year with the help of COVID-19 vaccine rollouts, but still warn of downside risks stemming from the emergence of new mutations and differences in vaccination rates among nations.

"We expect vaccine rollouts to play a key part in accelerating regional economic recovery," the finance ministers and central bank governors of Japan, China, South Korea and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations said in a joint statement after holding a videoconference.

While calling for vigilance against "uneven" economic recovery from the global health crisis, they pledged to "use all available policy tools to ensure an inclusive and sustainable recovery and maintain financial stability."

"It was meaningful that we could reaffirm the importance of regional financial cooperation," Japanese Finance Minister Taro Aso told a press conference after their discussions.

Underscoring their commitment to an "open and rules-based multilateral trade and investment system," the finance chiefs also welcomed the signing of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership agreement, the world's largest free trade deal signed by Australia, New Zealand and the 13 Asian nations in November.

They gathered online on the sidelines of three-day annual Asian Development Bank meetings that started in virtual format on Monday. Next year's meetings will be held in Colombo, Sri Lanka, according to the statement.

At the previous teleconference held in September, the ASEAN-plus-three countries decided to increase the operational flexibility of the Chiang Mai Initiative Multilateralization scheme, which came into force in 2010 to address balance-of-payment and short-term liquidity difficulties in the region in times of crisis.

The scheme evolved from the Chiang Mai Initiative, the first regional currency swap arrangement launched by the 13 Asian nations in May 2000 with the aim of preventing a repeat of the 1997 Asian currency crisis.

At its annual gathering, the ADB launched the Asia Pacific Tax Hub, which is aimed at promoting knowledge sharing and strengthening cooperation on tax policy and administration, to enhance its support for developing nations in the region.

The new framework envisions providing an inclusive platform for policy dialogue among 68 ADB members and international institutions, such as the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank.

The ADB talks were initially scheduled to be held in Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, but switched to virtual meetings due to the pandemic.

Earlier in the day, the finance chiefs of Japan, China and South Korea held a separate virtual meeting, where they vowed "targeted" support measures for those most affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The 10 ASEAN members are Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.
KYODO NEWS - May 3, 2021 - 09:20 | All, World, Japan

The Japanese government had requested the United States to amend its neutral stance regarding Japan's sovereignty of the Senkaku Islands in April 1978, but Washington rejected it, according to declassified U.S. government documents.

The documents, obtained by Kyodo News from the U.S. National Archives, also showed that the U.S. government had declined to alter its impartiality over the Japanese-controlled, Chinese-claimed islands in the East China Sea on the basis that the U.S. government's "position on Senkakus dispute had not changed since 1972" when Okinawa, including the uninhabited islets, reverted to Japan.

According to the telegrams sent from the U.S. Embassy in Japan to the State Department in 1978, then Japanese Prime Minister Takeo Fukuda told Ambassador Mike Mansfield in their meeting ahead of his U.S. visit he was surprised by the intrusion of a Chinese fishing fleet into the territorial waters around the Senkaku Islands.

Sino-Japanese relations have often been frayed by the islands, which China calls Diaoyu. Administrative rights over the Senkakus were returned by the United States to Japan in 1972.

While Article 5 of the Japan-U.S. Security Treaty states the United States will defend territories under Japan's administration from armed attack, including the Senkaku Islands, it does not touch upon the islands' sovereignty.

Meanwhile, Tatsuo Arima, then councilor of the Japanese Embassy in the United States, also requested the United States amend its position on the sovereignty of the Senkaku Islands outlined during the reversion of Okinawa.

An unresponsive U.S. stance "could call into question the U.S.-Japan mutual security treaty," Arima was quoted as telling the U.S. side.

However, the U.S. Department of State refused the appeal by noting the government's position "had been formulated with full regard for long-term U.S. needs and that it continued to meet those needs now as it had in 1971."

U.S. telegrams show that the United States prepared a statement in the event the utilization of a firing range provided by Japan as a training ground on Taisho Island, one of the Senkakus, was questioned.

Although Japan asked the United States to delete passages that implied impartiality over sovereignty issues, the request was denied.

The United States suspended the use of the firing range in June 1978 over fears it could become embroiled in a Sino-Japanese territorial dispute.

China has stepped up its claim since Japan brought the islands under state control in 2012. Japan takes the position that there exists no issue of territorial sovereignty to be resolved over the islands.
KYODO NEWS - May 3, 2021 - 22:35 | All, World, Japan

Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi and his U.S. counterpart Antony Blinken on Monday agreed to step up cooperation in dealing with issues related to China and reconfirmed the importance of maintaining stability and peace across the Taiwan Strait.

In their second in-person meeting, Motegi and Blinken confirmed that the two countries will "strongly oppose" any unilateral attempts by China to change the status quo by force in the East and South China seas, as pledged by their leaders last month in Washington, the Japanese Foreign Ministry said.

On North Korea, the top diplomats during their discussions in London agreed that they will work closely toward its denuclearization in accordance with U.N. Security Council resolutions, according to the ministry.

It said Blinken, who previously met Motegi in Tokyo in March, explained to the minister the administration of President Joe Biden's updated policy toward Pyongyang, but refrained from providing further information.

The Biden administration has recently completed a policy review on North Korea, with White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki saying Friday it will pursue a "practical" approach toward ridding North Korea of its nuclear weapons and will not focus on striking a grand bargain.

The talks between Motegi and Blinken were held ahead of a three-day meeting of foreign ministers of the Group of Seven industrial nations.

They also shared "serious concerns" over a continued military crackdown on protesters in Myanmar and agreed to urge the junta to immediately stop violence against civilians, according to the ministry.
New Delhi :

A court here today recalled the non-bailable warrants issued in a case against BJP MLA Sangeet Som, after he appeared before it.

Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate Madhu Gupta withdrew the warrants issued against Som for allegedly violating prohibitory orders and blocking a road, after the BJP MLA furnished bonds of Rs 40,000 in the court.

The magistrate directed Som to appear in court on the next date of hearing. The court had issued the warrants against Som on July 31 after he failed to appear before it. It had earlier rejected the BJP MLA's plea for exemption from personal appearance.

Meanwhile, talking to reporters, Som said he had not changed his stand on Taj Mahal. The BJP MLA from Sardhana had last month said the Taj Mahal was built by an emperor who had imprisoned his own father and targeted many Hindus in his kingdom.





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Madrid:

A Spanish judge has issued an EU arrest warrant for Catalonias deposed separatist leader a day after he failed to appear for questioning over his role in the regions tumultuous independence drive. Spanish prosecutors want to charge Carles Puigdemont, who is holed up in Belgium, with rebellion, sedition and misuse of public funds.

Yesterday, the 54-year-old ignored a summons to appear before the same judge in Madrid. An EU arrest warrant was also issued for four Catalan ministers who also failed to show up and are also thought to be in Belgium.

They, like Puigdemont, were dismissed by Spains central government a week ago, a court statement said. Yesterday the same Spanish judge had Puigdemonts deputy and seven other deposed regional ministers jailed pending a possible trial because of a risk that they might similarly abscond.

Speaking in an interview on Belgian television channel RTBF yesterday recorded before the widely expected warrant was issued, Puigdemont said he was not hiding from real justice but from a clearly politicised Spanish legal system.

I have told my lawyers to inform the Belgian justice authorities that I am completely at their disposal, he said. Spains worst political crisis in decades flared up over the staging of a Catalan independence referendum on October 1 despite a court ban. Spanish police tried and failed to stop it, in some cases firing rubber bullets.

An independence declaration by the Catalan parliament followed one week ago. Spains government responded by dismissing Puigdemonts government, imposing direct rule and calling fresh elections in Catalonia on December 21.

Some 20 people including Puigdemont and the Catalan parliament speaker had been summoned for questioning on Thursday. Puigdemonts Belgian lawyer Paul Bekaert, who has helped Basque separatists militants challenge Spanish extradition, said his client did not see the climate as conducive to testifying.

Late Thursday, as television footage showed police vans with flashing blue lights driving Puigdemonts former ministers to different prisons, furious Catalans took to the streets. About 20,000 people, according to police, demonstrated in the regional capital Barcelona, while others gathered across the region, and thousands turned out again last evening.

In Barcelona, people thronged outside the Catalan parliament chanting Freedom for political prisoners, Occupying forces leave and also This Europe is a disgrace. Its brilliant that people are protesting, although its a bit late, demonstrator Melanie Ortiz, 27, told AFP.

Puigdemont said on Catalan TV from an undisclosed location late Thursday that the situation is no longer an internal Spanish affair, calling on the international community to wake up to the danger.

But apart from Scotlands separatist First Minister Nicola Sturgeon criticising the jailing of political opponents, there are no signs that other countries steadfast backing of Madrid is faltering. Germany reiterated its support for the unity and constitutional order of Spain while a European Commission spokeswoman said it respects fully the independence of the Spanish judiciary.

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New Delhi :

Four years ago, well before the furor over allegations Moscow meddled in the 2016 election that put Donald Trump in the White House, at least 195 web addresses belonging to Trump, his family or his business empire were hijacked by hackers possibly operating out of Russia, The Associated Press has learned.

The Trump Organisation denied the domain names were ever compromised. But a review of internet records by the AP and cybersecurity experts shows otherwise.

And it was not until this past week, after the Trump camp was asked about it by the AP, that the last of the tampered- with addresses were repaired.

After the hack, computer users who visited the Trump- related addresses were unwittingly redirected to servers in St. Petersburg, Russia, that cybersecurity experts said contained malicious software commonly used to steal passwords or hold files for ransom. Whether anyone fell victim to such tactics is unclear.

A further mystery is who the hackers were and why theydid it. The discovery represents a new twist in the Russian hacking story, which up to now has focused mostly on what US intelligence officials say was a campaign by the Kremlin to try to undermine Democrat Hillary Clinton's candidacy and benefit Trump.

It is not known whether the hackers who tampered with the Trump addresses are the same ones who stole Democratic officials' emails and embarrassed the party in the heat of the campaign last year. Nor is it clear whether the hackers were acting on behalf of the Russian government.

The affected addresses, or domain names, included donaldtrump.org, donaldtrumpexecutiveoffice.com, donaldtrumprealty.com and barrontrump.com. They were compromised in two waves of attacks in August and September 2013, according to the review of internet records.

Many of the addresses were not being used by Trump. Businesses and public figures commonly buy addresses for possible future use or to prevent them from falling into the hands of rivals or enemies.

The Trump Organization and its affiliates own at least 3,300 in all. According to security experts, the hackers hijacked the addresses by penetrating and altering the domain registration records housed at GoDaddy.com, a seller of web addresses.

Accounts at GoDaddy, like at any site that requires a user name and password, are often subject to malicious messages known as phishing attacks, which are designed to trick people to reveal that personal information to hackers.

Computer users who entered or clicked on one of those Trump addresses probably would have had no idea they were redirected to servers in Russia.

Within days after the AP asked the Trump Organization about the tampering, the affected web addresses were all corrected. The White House referred questions to the Trump Organization. The FBI did not respond to a request for comment.

GoDaddy spokesman Nick Fuller said the company had no breaches of its system in 2013 and has measures in place to monitor for malicious activity. Fuller would not discuss any customers in particular.

Some cybersecurity experts said there is an outside chance the tampering was a probe, an attempt to test security for an eventual effort to gather information on Trump or his business dealings. But those experts were only guessing.

There was no evidence the hackers ultimately broke into server computers at the Trump Organization or other Trump interests.

"This is beyond me," said Paul Vixie, CEO of the San Mateo, California-based internet security company Farsight Security Inc. "I have simply never seen a benefit accrue from an attack of this kind. I'm at loss, unless it's a demonstration of capabilities."

Vixie said the Trump Organization's apparent failure to detect what was happening probably suggests inadequate cybersecurity at the company. "There's no way something like this could go by in the Bloomberg empire without this being seen," Vixie said.

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New Delhi:

A differently abled teacher was arrested for allegedly raping his 10-year-old student in southeast Delhi's Dakshinpuri, the police said on Friday.



The victim was allegedly raped in September by the 30-year-old man who lives in her neighbourhood, they said.



She was threatened by the accused teacher and out of fear she stopped going to his classes and did not narrate her ordeal to anyone, the police said.



A few days back, the accused tried to molest the girl again. She told her mother and the police were informed on Saturday.



Subsequently, the accused teacher was arrested, the police added.

Also read: Police arrest bank manager for raping Russian woman in Mathura



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New Delhi:

Israeli director Yaniv Berman on Friday said he wanted to show the impact of militarisation on children in Israel through the movie "Land of the Little People" which was released in 2016.



Berman was speaking at the Q&A session post the movie's screening at the Sixth Dharamshala International Film Festival.



"Most of the children growing up in our country know that they have to join the Army eventually. The education system in the country prepares them to survive in future as potential soldiers. They are expected to toughen up and if the parents see their kids turn violent, they don't really object to it," he said.



Berman said he was inspired to make a film on the issue as it is a part of his personal experience like many of his country people.



"Israeli people are good in nature but there is a lot of anger in their hearts due to the situation. The children tend to be more aggressive. The war has become a part of who we are."



The movie is about four children from an Israeli Army village and analyses how they assert their dominance over two war deserters in an abandoned military base who give a tough fight to the kids.



The film handles the concepts of violence, masculinity, sexuality, and morality with hard-hitting reality.



Berman added, "The film also shows the state of war deserters... There are people like them in Israel and I feel it should not be necessary for people to take part in the Army. It's okay to give up war.



"The sad part today in the country is that instead of finding alternative ways to deal with crisis, people are choosing war..."

Watch trailer:

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New Delhi:

Shamika Ravi, a senior fellow at Brookings India, would be appointed as part-time member of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM), a senior government official said.

Headed by NITI Aayog member Bibek Debroy, the EAC-PM includes NITI Aayogs Principal Advisor Ratan Watal as its member and economists Surjit Bhalla, Rathin Roy and Ashima Goyal as part-time members.

The Prime Ministers Office (PMO) has cleared the appointment of Ravi as part-time member of the EAC-PM, a senior government official told PTI.

Ravi leads the development economics research vertical at Brookings India. Ravi is also a visiting professor of economics at the Indian School of Business (ISB) where she teaches courses in Game Theory and Microfinance.

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New Delhi:

Just a few days after a Swiss couple was assaulted near the railway tracks at Agras Fatehpur Sikri, a German national was allegedly beaten by a railway contractor at the Robertsganj Railway Station in Uttar Pradeshs Sonbhadra, police said on Sunday.



The accused identified as Aman Yadav has been arrested and an investigation is underway.



Meanwhile, the accused claimed innocence and alleged that he was punched by Berlin resident Holger Eric. I am innocent, the German national punched me when I said welcome to India to him. He even spat on me, ANI quoted him as saying.



Robertsganj Police say Yadav asked Eric about his visit but he refused to reply as he smelled alcohol on Yadavs breath. This led Yadav to allegedly attack Eric.



UP Director General of Police Sulkhan Singh had issued a list of guidelines, including the deployment of policemen in plain clothes, more patrolling and installation of CCTV cameras, to prevent such incidents.

(With Agency inputs)

Also read: Bhopal gang rape case: IG and Railway SP transferred



Also read: Bihar: Eight drown in Ganga while taking bath in Fatuha district of Patna

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New Delhi:

In a tragic incident, six people were killed in a road accident when a car overturned after hitting a divider on Lucknow-Agra Expressway late on Saturday night.

Earlier on Saturday morning, two separate road accidents were reported in Haryana because of low visibility due to fog.

In one accident, four people were killed and six others were injured in Haryana's Hisar district, when a school bus collided with a school staff van.

Read more: Himachal Pradesh bus accident kills 3, injures 18

The second accident occurred in Yamunanagar district of Haryana, four persons were killed and six others injured when a private bus hit a motorcycle on the Bilaspur-Jagadhri road, the police said.

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Copenhagen:

A man with a firearm was suspected of opening fire in Central Oslo was arrested by Norway Police on Sunday.

No one has been injured.

Police said on Twitter that the man was detained behind Oslo's downtown cathedral, adding they have no information that shots were fired at people.

However, they were seeking witnesses.

Today's incident happened around Stortorvet, a square adjacent to the Oslo Domkirke cathedral.

Earlier on April 9, a suspect was arrested after Norwegian police neutralised an explosive device found in downtown Oslo.

Police Chief Vidar Pedersen confirmed on Saturday that the device, initially described as "bomb-like," was an explosive. The police Twitter account said it had been defused or neutralised.

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New Delhi :

Supreme Court-empowered green authority EPCA has assured industries operating in the NCR that it will urge the Centre to bring natural gas under the ambit of Goods and Services Tax (GST).

The EPCA's assurance came following a clutch of petitions by industry bodies seeking that they be provided some sort of cushioning in light of the recent ban on the use of Pet Coke and Furnace Oil (FO) in the National Capital Region.

Industrial units use these fuels for combustion. The industries are believed to have expressed in their petitions fear of losses as the ban on use of Pet Coke and FO is limited to the NCR, which essentially means that they may "lose out" to competitors operating out of other regions where these fuels can still be used.

However, EPCA (Environment Pollution - Prevention and Control Authority) chairman Bhure Lal and member Sunita Narain tried to allay their concerns citing the new draft standards for SOX and NOX emissions, which will effectively spell the end for these sulphur-heavy fuels.

"We will meet the petroleum minister and request him to consider the industry demand," Narain said.

So, while these fuels cannot be used at all in the NCR (Delhi had imposed a ban way back in 1996), in other parts of the country industries will have to adhere to the stringent emission standards, 600 and 300 micrograms per cubic metre for SOX and NOX respectively, which will come into effect once officially notified by the ministry.

In the absence of any emission standards, the use of these fuels were rampant in industries, generating "enormous amounts" of air pollutants, especially in the National Capital Region, according to the Supreme Court-appointed body.

Pet Coke and FO are bottom-of-the-barrel product at refineries and widely used for being cheaper than natural gas and petrol.

The EPCA also assured the industry representatives that it will petition the Centre to bring natural gas under GST, as the high VAT (Value Added Tax) imposed on gas in states such as Uttar Pradesh was a major reason behind the popularity of cheaper yet polluting fuels such as Pet Coke and FO.

According to the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), natural gas has VAT as high as 26 per cent in states such as Uttar Pradesh, which is "fanning and expanding" the use of dirty fuels.

"Demand for pet-coke has increased to such an extent that last year India imported 14 million tonnes of pet-coke, which is more than the domestic production. If imports and domestic production are added, then India has used more pet-coke than China, when its pollution was at its peak," it said.

The astounding amount of sulphur content in these fuels becomes clear from the fact that while in BS-IV compliant petrol or diesel its 50 ppm (parts per million), in FO and pet coke it ranges between 15,000 and 74,000 ppm.

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YSR Congress Party YSRCP candidate, Dr Maddila Gurumoorthy won the Tirupati Lok Sabha bypoll with a thumping majority after the counting procedure was completed on Sunday. On this markable win on election Andhra Pradesh CM Jagan Mohan Reddy congratulates him. Let us share that he won by defeating TDP candidate Panabaka Lakshmi, a former Union Minister, by a record margin of 2,71,592 votes.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy mark a twwet says as "After 23 months of governance, bypoll has been conducted to Tirupati and people gave a solid verdict. This success belongs to people. Congratulations to my brother Gurumoorthy."

Here it is to be noted that Dr Gurumoorthy secured 6,26,108 votes including 1,533 postal votes, out of the total 11,04,827 polled on April 17, while TDP's Panabaka Lakshmi got 3,54,516 votes. The difference in votes between them was 24.57 per cent. The BJP nominee backed by the Jana Sena Party was nowhere in the reckoning, where K Ratna Prabha a retired IAS officer from the Karnataka cadre managed to get only 57,080 votes.

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Tamil Nadu elections: Stalin set to become CM, PM Modi congratulates him on victory
Bhopal: The corona virus is on the rise in Madhya Pradesh but the government is also making all efforts to prevent its menace. Amidst all this, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has started a continuous meeting on corona. Yesterday, sunday also, CM Shivraj held a review meeting with core group members including ministers and senior officials on prevention and arrangements for corona infection from residence.

In the meeting, Shivraj told the core group members, including ministers and senior officials, "The only way to break the corona chain is to stop the infection where it is. Where there is no infection, stop the commuters from outside, create micro-maintenance zones wherever there is infection in villages, neighbourhoods so that infections do not enter there. At the same time, he said, "Door-to-door surveys should be conducted to identify patients with cold, cold, fever and start treatment by giving them medical kits. With the introduction of medicines from the beginning, the patients will recover quickly. For this, a campaign should be launched in villages and in cities. '

At the same time, CM Shivraj directed that "Special attention should be paid to high positivity districts of the state, 15 districts of Madhya Pradesh have an average positivity rate of 7 days above 25%. Tikamgarh has a positivity rate of 47%, Shivpuri 39%, Datia 34%, Anuppur 32%, Singrauli 31%. At the same time, he said, "Make the home isolation system perfect so that patients can recover at home. At present, 64218 patients are in home isolation in the State, out of which 13596 are in rural areas and 50622 in urban areas. Madhya Pradesh has 320 covid care centres with oxygen in 80 centres. These centres have 14362 isolation beds and 1267 oxygen beds. The Covid Care Centres have made good arrangements for the treatment of patients as well as their food etc".

Nepal Govt decides to halt all domestic and international flights as pandemic continue to rage

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Natco gets CDSCO nods for Baricitinib drug for COVID treatment, Stock Rise
Kathmandu: Pm K P Sharma Oli, who is facing a political crisis in Nepal, will move a confidence motion in Parliament on May 10 in an attempt to stay in power. An official statement said on Sunday that President Vidya Devi Bhandari has convened a session of Parliament on May 10 on the recommendation of PM Oli to get the government's vote of confidence. Oli needs at least 136 votes in the 275-member House of Representatives to win the trust vote as four MPs are currently suspended.

According to Nepali media reports, during a cabinet meeting on Sunday, Oli said he would try to win a vote of confidence in Parliament to retain power. Oli's decision comes amid a political stalemate in the country following PM Oli's controversial decision to dissolve the House of Representatives last year. Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Leela Nath Shrestha told the media that the PM will move a vote of confidence on May 10. It will be just a one-day session.

Shrestha said Oli wants to take the stalled political process forward. The Government is confident that it will win the trust vote. If that does not happen, there will be an exercise to form a coalition Government. PM Oli's decision comes at a time when Nepal is reeling under the second wave of corona epidemic. Nepal reported the highest ever 7,137 new corona cases on Sunday. The number of infected persons in the country has gone up to 329,000 while the death toll has gone up to 3325.

Pakistan to postpone pedestrians entry from Afghanistan, Iran

Lingojiguda ward by-election : Congress party candidate D Rajshekar Reddy has won election

COVID crisis: Britain will send 1000 more ventilators
The government of Taiwan has decided to temporarily ban the entry of foreign nationals provisionally who have been to India over the previous 14 days, the restrictions will come into effect from tomorrow. Taiwan's Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) head Chen Shih-Chung on Monday announced that the ban will apply to all foreign nationals with an exception to Taiwanese residence permit holders, Taiwan News reported.

The move comes as India is witnessing a record-breaking and unprecedented COVID-19 surge. The country on Monday reported 3,68,147 new coronavirus infections and 3,417 related deaths in the last 24 hours, informed the union health ministry on Monday morning. With this, the cumulative count of the cases has gone up to 1,99,25,604.

The second wave of the pandemic has overwhelmed the health care system in the country. Taiwan has reaffirmed its commitment to providing necessary assistance to the people of India in difficult times of COVID-19 and the country sent the first batch of 150 oxygen concentrators and 500 oxygen cylinders to New Delhi on Sunday.

Taiwan said that except for its citizens, all those who had been in India in the 14 days prior would be barred from entering its territory while returning Taiwanese face 14 days in centralized quarantine facilities.

Last month, Indonesia, which has been battling one of Asia's worst COVID-19 outbreaks, stopped issuing visas for foreigners who had been in India in the previous 14 days.

G7 summit London: Girls education, womens employment in limelight

Press Freedom Day: Diplomatic missions to Myanmar highlights need for media freedom

World Press Freedom Day 2021 April 3: Vice President Naidu wishes journalists
A reliable source reported a Taliban attack on an outpost on the outskirts of Pul-e-Khumri city in Baghlan province. Sources said that three members of the police special unit were killed in the attack. The Taliban has conducted 141 attacks in Afghanistan over the last 24 hours, mostly in Uruzgan, Zabul, Kandahar, Nangarhar, Badakhshan and Takhar provinces, sources said.

Meanwhile, the Defence Ministry said that more than 100 Taliban fighters were also killed in the last 24 hours. The militant group has, however, rejected the figure.

As per TOLO reports, in the last 30 days, 438 members of Afghan forces and civilians were killed and more than 500 others were injured. The data shows that 190 bombings, targeted attacks and offensives took place in the last month. The figures come as US forces started their withdrawal from Afghanistan on May 1.

The Defence Ministry said that Camp Antonik in the Washir district in the southern province of Helmand was officially handed over to the Afghan National Army's 215 Maiwand Corp on Sunday. The Ministry said the camp will be used as a base for Afghan special forces.

Pakistan to postpone pedestrians entry from Afghanistan, Iran

World Press Freedom Day 2021 April 3: Vice President Naidu wishes journalists

Will Nepal's PM K P Sharma be able to win trust vote? Proposals to be tabled on May 10
Kathmandu, May 3

The government has postponed the national census 2021 that it was conducting after a gap of 10 years due to the recent surge in the Covid-19 cases in various districts of the country.

The Central Bureau of Statistics had scheduled the national population census from June 8 to 22. Preparations were taking place at a speed for the past few weeks.

However, the cabinet meeting held on Sunday evening decided to postpone the programme until the next notice, informs the government spokesperson Communications and Information Minister Parbat Gurung.

Gurung says it will not possible to visit every household as the pandemic has reached its peak now

Meanwhile, the bureau also postponed various activities such as training it was carrying out to prepare for the event.
A trademark refers to a name, word, phrase, logo, symbol, design, image, or a combination of these elements showing the difference from goods or services of others to the goods and services by any firm, company or individual.

There is also a range of non-conventional trademarks comprising marks that do not fall into these standard categories, such as those based on colour, smell, or sound.

In Nepal, protection and enforcement of trademark are governed by the Patent, Design and Trademark Act, 1965 (PDTA). The Department of Industry (DOI) within the Ministry of Industry is the competent authority that registers and administers trademarks in Nepal.

Types of trademark

Trademarks in Nepal are designated by the following symbols:

Photo: Smith & Hopen

: For an unregistered trademark, that is, a mark used to promote or brand goods : For an unregistered service mark, that is, a mark used to promote or brand services : For a registered trademark

Procedures for trademark registration

The process for registering a trademark in Nepal is explained below:

Step 1: Submission of an application for registration of a trademark to the DoI

An application in a prescribed format shall be submitted to the DoI for registration, along with all required documents.

Step 2: Preliminary examination of the application by the DoI

After an application is submitted, the same is then examined by the registrar with regard to the distinctiveness, possibility of deceptiveness and conflicting trademarks. The registrar may accept or refuse the application subject to the provisions of the act.

Step 3: Publication of trademark in the Industrial Property Bulletin (IP Bulletin)

After conducting a preliminary examination, if the DoI finds the trademark consistent with the law, such a trademark will be published in an IP Bulletin.

Trademarks are published in the IP Bulletin so as to invite the public for filing an opposition for registration of the trademark. An opposition against the published trademark shall be filed within 90 days of publication in the IP Bulletin.

Step 4: Registration of the trademark

If there is no opposition filed, the DoI will register the trademark and issue the trademark registration certificate.

Generally, it takes about nine months to a year to complete the process of trademark registration and issuance of trademark registration certificate where no petition for an opposition is filed.

Photo: The Blue Diamond Gallery

Documents required

Following documents are required to file an application for the trademark registration in Nepal:

An application in the prescribed format Certificate of registration of the proprietor of the trademark Tax registration certificate of the proprietor Label of trademark Power of attorney (POA)

Ground of refusal of an application for the trademark

Section 18(1) of the PDTA has mentioned the following grounds upon which an application for a trademark can be rejected:

In case such trademark damages the reputation of any person or institution In case such trademark contradicts public conduct/morale or national interest In case such trademark damages goodwill of the trademark of any person In case such trademark is found to have already been registered in the name of another person

Validity of the registered trademark

As per section 18D of the PDTA, the trademark shall remain valid for seven years from the date of registration.

Further, Section 23B (1) of PDTA mentioned that the trademark shall be renewed within the period of 35 days from the date of expiry. In addition to that, Section 23 B (2) provides the right to renew the trademark by making a payment of a penalty of Rs 1,000 within six months from the expiry of the said 35 days period.

If the renew is not made within the given time, the registration will automatically get cancelled.
A firefighter from the Naval Support Activity was sent to Anne Arundel Medical Center with a medical concern but was not injured. After firefighters enter burning buildings they go through rehab to monitor their blood pressure, pulse and carbon monoxide levels. During that process, the firefighter was concerned about one of his levels and went to the hospital for evaluation.
Congress

Lawmakers look to strengthen whistleblower protections

A group of lawmakers are looking to increase protections for whistleblowers in the federal government alongside a slew of other government oversight and transparency bills introduced in recent weeks.

These include bills that take aim at the independence of inspectors general, automating and digitizing the Plum Book, making federal advisory committees more transparent and amending federal vacancies code.

The latest is a bill called the Whistleblower Protection Act of 2021, which Chairwoman of the Oversight and Reform Committee, Carolyn Maloney (D-N.Y.) released during a hearing on Monday with co-sponsors Reps. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.), Gerry Connolly (D-Va.), Jackie Speier (D-Calif.), Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-Texas), and Kathleen Rice (D-N.Y.).

"This bill would clarify that no federal employee  including the President or the Vice President of the United States  may interfere with or retaliate against a whistleblower for sharing information with Congress," Maloney said in her opening statement.

One change the bill would enshrine is access to district court and jury trials for whistleblowers in the event that they seek corrective action from the Merit Systems Protection Board and aren't given a decision or order within 180 days.

MSPB, a quasi-judicial agency that hears appeals from feds on agency personnel actions, has been without the quorum it needs to make decisions on appeals since 2017.

"The bureaucratic body that exists right now to hear a whistleblower's retaliation complaint has no members," said Liz Hempowicz, the director of public policy at the Project on Government Oversight. "That means that any whistleblower coming forward right now with a complaint of retaliation goes to the end of an over 3,000 case line. So they're effectively shut out from relief."

If passed, it would also extend whistleblower protections to non-career employees in the Senior Executive Service, Public Health Service employees, and the commissioned officer corps at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

It would also help prevent retaliation against whistleblowers by limiting retaliatory investigations and giving protections against disclosing their identities, those introducing the bill said.

Currently, those investigations are only considered illegal retaliation in the Department of Veterans Affairs, Hempowicz wrote. In other agencies, they can lead to criminal prosecution, a trend that is having a chilling effect on whistleblowing, she said.

The provision on anonymity is also important, she said.

"Breaking their anonymity may just be a form of retaliation itself," she told lawmakers. "If you are a public servant and your name is now everywhere all over Twitter as somebody who is a traitor, I think what happens is we tell future whistleblowers don't come forward because instead of addressing the issue that you're blowing the whistle on we're going drag your name through the mud and ruin your life."
Smithfield's Maintenance Technician Apprenticeship Program Honored by NC Community College System

SMITHFIELD, Va., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Smithfield Foods, Inc. is pleased to announce that ApprenticeshipNC, a state apprenticeship agency of the NC Community College System, has named Smithfield its 2021 Outstanding Registered Apprenticeship Employer for the company's innovative maintenance technician apprenticeship program with Wayne Community College (WCC) in Goldsboro, NC.

[Pictured above: Clarence Scott, talent acquisition specialist for Smithfield Foods and Craig Foucht, executive director of Wayne Business and Industry Center pose with the award alongside Kristie Norton, apprenticeship and work-based learning coordinator for Wayne Community College and Smithfield apprentices Dwayne Jones, Hector Salinas and Lavar Elliott.]

The award annually recognizes a North Carolina employer with an inventive, effective workforce development system supporting workers, businesses and local economies. Smithfield was announced as the award recipient during ApprenticeshipNC's virtual annual conference April 27-28.

Smithfield's maintenance technician apprenticeship programs entail three years of classroom learning and an additional year of hands-on training with experienced technicians at local Smithfield facilities. Student apprentices receive free college tuition, an associate degree, state and federal journeyman's certifications and full-time salary and benefits as they progress through the program.

"Developing meaningful career opportunities for the next generation of manufacturing and agricultural professionals is of vital importance to Smithfield and our industry," said Schwanzetta Williams, vice president of talent acquisition and diversity and inclusion for Smithfield Foods. "We are honored to receive this award and are deeply grateful to WCC and our partners across the nation for joining us in this important initiative. We also extend our appreciation to the apprentices in our Smithfield Family, whose dedicated commitment and efforts deserve to be celebrated."

Smithfield launched its inaugural maintenance technician apprenticeship program with WCC in September 2019 and has since expanded the initiative to include partnerships with colleges near Smithfield facilities in Kansas City, MO and Omaha, NE. The company will introduce two additional programs at new locations in fall 2021.

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"I firmly believe that WCC excels because of its partners, and we are fortunate to have a strong partnership with Smithfield Foods in our apprenticeship endeavor," said Dr. Thomas Walker, president of WCC. "It was our pleasure to nominate the company for ApprenticeshipNC's Outstanding Registered Apprenticeship Employer Award."

In addition to its maintenance technician apprenticeship programs, Smithfield also expanded its partnerships with WCC and James Sprunt Community College of Kenansville, NC to include a new Farm Leadership Program offering high school graduates an opportunity to earn a swine management degree online while receiving on-the-job training at select Smithfield farms in Colorado, Missouri, North Carolina and Virginia.

Smithfield's apprenticeship programs are complemented by the company's Career Foundation Program, which offers recent college graduates exposure, professional development and on-the-job experience in agriculture and consumer packaged goods by way of a temporary full-time job. Upon completing the program, participants can apply and interview for a permanent position within the company.

To learn more about career opportunities at Smithfield visit smithfieldfoods.com/careers.

About Smithfield Foods, Inc.

Headquartered in Smithfield, Va. since 1936, Smithfield Foods, Inc. is an American food company with agricultural roots and a global reach. Our 40,000 U.S. team members and 15,000 European employees are dedicated to producing "Good food. Responsibly." and have made us one of the world's leading vertically integrated protein companies. We have pioneered sustainability standards for more than two decades, including many industry firsts, such as our ambitious commitment to cut our carbon impact by 25 percent by 2025. We believe in the power of protein to end food insecurity and have donated hundreds of millions of food servings to our neighbors in need. Smithfield boasts a portfolio of high-quality iconic brands, such as Smithfield, Eckrich and Nathan's Famous, among many others. For more information, visit www.smithfieldfoods.com, and connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram.

Smithfield GFR logo, primary logo for all releases (PRNewsfoto/Smithfield Foods, Inc.)





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SOURCE Smithfield Foods, Inc.
ROLLING MEADOWS, Ill., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. (NYSE: AJG) today announced the acquisition of Canberra, Australian Capital Territory (ACT)-based Mutual Brokers Pty Ltd. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. Logo (PRNewsfoto/Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.)

Founded in 1985, Mutual Brokers is an independent broker serving a broad cross-section of commercial and small corporate clients in Canberra and the ACT. Owners Lou Pennetta and Adrian Dodd, and their team, will come under the direction of Head of Metro Branches Mark Saunderson and will relocate to join the Gallagher Canberra branch later in the year.

"Mutual Brokers is a growing, culturally aligned business that doubles our presence and expands our client capabilities in the key Canberra market," said J. Patrick Gallagher, Jr., Chairman, President and CEO. "I am very pleased to welcome Lou, Adrian and their associates to our growing global team."

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co., a global insurance brokerage, risk management and consulting services firm, is headquartered in Rolling Meadows, Illinois. The company has operations in 56 countries and offers client-service capabilities in more than 150 countries around the world through a network of correspondent brokers and consultants.

Investors: Ray Iardella Media: Linda J. Collins VP  Investor Relations VP  Corporate Communications 630-285-3661/ ray_iardella@ajg.com 630-285-4009/ linda_collins@ajg.com

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Four months after leading a $30 million growth round in Bibit, Sequoia Capital India has doubled down on its investment in the Indonesian robo-advisor app. Bibit announced today that the firm led a new $65 million growth round that also included participation from Prosus Ventures, Tencent, Harvard Management Company and returning investors AC Ventures and East Ventures.

This brings Bibits total funding to $110 million, including a Series A announced in May 2019. Its latest round will be used on developing and launching new products, hiring and increasing Bibits financial education services.

Bibit was launched in 2019 by Stockbit, a stock investing platform and community, and is part of a crop of Indonesian investment apps focused on new investors. Others include SoftBank Ventures-backed Ajaib, Bareksa, Pluang and FUNDtastic. Bibit runs robo-advisor services for mutual funds, investing users money based on their risk profiles, and claims that 90% of its users are millennials and first-time investors.

According to Indonesias Financial Services Authority (Otoritas Jasa Keuangan), the number of retail investors grew 56% year-over-year in 2020. For mutual funds in particular, Bibit said investors grew 78% year-over-year to 3.2 million, based on data from the Indonesia Stock Exchange and Central Securities Custodian.

Despite the economic impact of COVID-19, interest in stock investing grew as people took advantage of market dips (the Jakarta Composite Index fell in the first quarter of 2020, but is now recovering steadily). Apps like Bibit and its competitors want to make capital investing more accessible with lower fees and minimum investment amounts than traditional brokerages like Mandiri Sekuritas, which also saw an increase in new retail investors and average transaction value last year.

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But the percentage of retail investors in Indonesia is still very low, especially compared to markets like Singapore or Malaysia, presenting growth opportunities for investment services.

Apps like Bibit focus on content that helps make capital investing less intimidating to first-time investors. For example, Ajaib also presents its financial educational features as a selling point.

In a press statement, Sequoia Capital India vice president Rohit Agarwal said, Indonesian mutual fund customers have grown almost 10x in the past five years. Savings via mutual funds is the first step towards investing and Bibit has helped millions of consumers start their investing journey in a responsible manner. Sequoia Capital India is excited to double down on the partnership as the company brings the same customer focus to stock investing with Stockbit.
Conference Call Scheduled for May 25, 2021 at 9:00am ET

HAIFA, Israel, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Elbit Systems Ltd. (NASDAQ: ESLT) & (TASE: ESLT) ("Elbit Systems or the "Company") announced today that it will be releasing its first quarter 2021 financial results on Tuesday, May 25, 2021.

The Company will also be hosting a conference call on that same day at 9:00am Eastern Time. On the call, management will review and discuss the results and will be available to answer questions.

To participate, please call one of the teleconferencing numbers that follow. If you are unable to connect using the toll-free numbers, please try the international dial-in number.

US Dial-in Numbers: 1-888-281-1167

CANADA Dial-in Numbers: 1-866-485-2399

ISRAEL Dial-in Number: 03-918-0644

INTERNATIONAL Dial-in Number: +972-3-918-0644

at 9:00am Eastern Time; 6:00am Pacific Time; 4:00pm Israel Time

The conference call will also be broadcast live on Elbit Systems' website at https://www.elbitsystems.com/investor-relations/. An online replay will be available from 24 hours after the call ends.

Alternatively, for two days following the call, investors will be able to dial a replay number to listen to the call. The dial-in numbers are:

1-888-782-4291 (US and Canada) or +972-3-925-5900 (Israel and International).

About Elbit Systems

Elbit Systems Ltd. is an international high technology company engaged in a wide range of defense, homeland security and commercial programs throughout the world. The Company, which includes Elbit Systems and its subsidiaries, operates in the areas of aerospace, land and naval systems, command, control, communications, computers, intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance ("C4ISR"), unmanned aircraft systems, advanced electro-optics, electro-optic space systems, EW suites, signal intelligence systems, data links and communications systems, radios, cyber-based systems and munitions. The Company also focuses on the upgrading of existing platforms, developing new technologies for defense, homeland security and commercial applications and providing a range of support services, including training and simulation systems.

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For additional information, visit: https://elbitsystems.com/, follow us on Twitter or visit our official Facebook, Youtube and LinkedIn Channels.

Company Contact : Joseph Gaspar, Executive VP & CFO Tel: +972-77-2946663 j.gaspar@elbitsystems.com Rami Myerson, Director, Investor Relations Tel: +972-77-2948984 rami.myerson@elbitsystems.com David Vaaknin, VP, Brand & Corporate Communications Tel: +972-77-2946691 david.vaaknin@elbitsystems.com IR Contact : Ehud Helft Kenny Green GK Investor Relations Tel: 1-646-201-9246 elbitsystems@gkir.com







This press release may contain forwardlooking statements (within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended and the Israeli Securities Law, 1968) regarding Elbit Systems Ltd. and/or its subsidiaries (collectively the Company), to the extent such statements do not relate to historical or current facts. Forward-looking statements are based on management's current expectations, estimates, projections and assumptions about future events. Forwardlooking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions about the Company, which are difficult to predict, including projections of the Company's future financial results, its anticipated growth strategies and anticipated trends in its business. Therefore, actual future results, performance and trends may differ materially from these forwardlooking statements due to a variety of factors, including, without limitation: scope and length of customer contracts; governmental regulations and approvals; changes in governmental budgeting priorities; general market, political and economic conditions in the countries in which the Company operates or sells, including Israel and the United States among others; changes in global health and macro-economic conditions; differences in anticipated and actual program performance, including the ability to perform under long-term fixed-price contracts; changes in the competitive environment; and the outcome of legal and/or regulatory proceedings. The factors listed above are not all-inclusive, and further information is contained in Elbit Systems Ltd.'s latest annual report on Form 20-F, which is on file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. All forwardlooking statements speak only as of the date of this release. Although the Company believes the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements contained herein are reasonable, it cannot guarantee future results, level of activity, performance or achievements. Moreover, neither the Company nor any other person assumes responsibility for the accuracy and completeness of any of these forward-looking statements. The Company does not undertake to update its forward-looking statements.

Elbit Systems Ltd., its logo, brand, product, service and process names appearing in this Press Release are the trademarks or service marks of Elbit Systems Ltd. or its affiliated companies. All other brand, product, service and process names appearing are the trademarks of their respective holders. Reference to or use of a product, service or process other than those of Elbit Systems Ltd. does not imply recommendation, approval, affiliation or sponsorship of that product, service or process by Elbit Systems Ltd. Nothing contained herein shall be construed as conferring by implication, estoppel or otherwise any license or right under any patent, copyright, trademark or other intellectual property right of Elbit Systems Ltd. or any third party, except as expressly granted herein.

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SOURCE Elbit Systems Ltd
SAN ANTONIO, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Texas-based payroll and human resource services and technology firm Execupay announced in March that it has acquired the payroll service business unit Olathe, Kansas-based Paydayz Staffing, Paydayz Payroll.

More Than Just Payroll (PRNewsfoto/Execupay)

Founded in 2007, Paydayz Payroll owned by Kathy and Matt Phar, is the successful payroll service division of Paydayz Staffing. For 13 years, Paydayz Payroll served clients across 6 states, focused on a personal touch and the highest level of customer service. Wanting to focus on their hyper growth staffing division, the Phar family comfortably made the decision to spin off the payroll division to Execupay.

The Phar's knew Execupay was the best choice for their clients because Execupay has been the provider of payroll software to Paydayz Payroll since their inception.

Tom Klingbeil, Executive Vice-President of Execupay, states that "Kathy and Matt go above and beyond for their clients and we look forward to carrying on that tradition as we welcome Paydayz Payroll clients to the Execupay family."

"We are ecstatic about helping Paydayz Payroll and their clients and look forward to building great relationships with Paydayz Staffing in their respective markets. We have had a great partnership with them for 13 years, this only makes it stronger," states, Execupay Sales & Marketing VP, Scott Abramson.

No jobs were lost in this transition as Paydayz Staffing brought on any employees displaced by the Paydayz Payroll transition (except one that has been scheduled to retire on January 1st).

Paydayz clients will see very little change in their payroll processing since Paydayz utilizes Execupay Software. Paydayz Payroll clients will see no disruption in service and gain access to an expanded suite of payroll and HR, cloud-based products and services.

"Following a year of unprecedented change, we look forward to continue helping Paydayz Payroll clients navigate the Paycheck Protection Program and all the available payroll-based tax credits designed to help small businesses recover from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic," says Execupay CEO Gerald Stowers.

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About Execupay

Founded in 1974, Execupay provides human capital management services, solutions, and technology covering payroll, time and labor management, benefits, talent acquisition, talent management, and HR management to SMB's throughout the United States. The company is also a leading provider of software for the payroll service industry and white-labeled payroll services to accountants, payment companies, HR software providers, and banks powering brands like Sam's Club Payroll, BBVA Payroll, GoCo, and Beyond.

Media Contact: Scott Abramson

scott.abramson@execupay.com

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New additions help researchers uncover comprehensive surface chemistry insights

HILLSBORO, Ore., May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Thermo Fisher Scientific, the world leader in serving science, today announced the Thermo Scientific Nexsa G2 surface analysis system  a fully automated x-ray photoelectron spectrometer (XPS) designed to increase productivity and innovation for academic and industrial labs. The Nexsa G2 delivers significant software and hardware improvements that enable researchers to uncover comprehensive surface chemistry insights. It also offers the potential for product advancements through greater sample throughput and correlative analysis compared to the previous Nexsa model.

Thermo Scientific Nexsa G2

The easy-to-use Nexsa G2 allows researchers to obtain holistic insights into surface chemistry to understand the composition of microelectronics, ultra-thin films and nanotechnologiesenabling them to accelerate their research on items such as batteries, semiconductors, polymers and catalysis. Compared to the previous Nexsa model, this instrument's improved sensitivity detects weak signals below 0.1 A more easily and produces reliable, high-quality data, enhancing the development and safety of a variety of products, including next generation batteries and medical implants. Moreover, software improvements and improved automation enable users to strengthen data integrity with robust results and fast sample acquisition, and easily correlate information obtained from a range of integrated analysis techniques.

"The Nexsa G2 is ideal for both industrial and academic labs that need a low-maintenance, future-proof surface analysis system that meets a variety of research needs," said Rosy Lee, vice president and general manager of materials science at Thermo Fisher. "Academic institutions can extend XPS to both advanced and novice users, and easily collaborate with industry to quickly reach their research goals. At the same time, industrial labs benefit from high productivity as they deliver the precise data their customers require."

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The Nexsa G2 delivers several features that researchers need for quality surface analysis in one solution, including:

Integration of multiple analytical techniques, including a Raman spectroscopy option unique to Nexsa systems, which helps researchers understand the samples they analyze.

Sample heating and electrical biasing, which supports enhanced research in microelectronics, catalysis and nanotechnologies while expanding the analysis possibilities for battery development.

Next generation Thermo Scientific Avantage Data Software for easy instrument control, accurate data acquisition and processing, and flexible reporting functions, allowing researchers to focus on results rather than data collection processes.

A MAGCIS dual beam ion source that facilitates depth profile analysis of soft and hard materials using gas cluster or monatomic ions, which is designed to minimize surface damage and enable research on a wide collection of materials.

Automation that facilitates remote access and operation, providing global collaboration and socially distanced discovery.

To learn more about the Thermo Scientific Nexsa G2 XPS, visit https://ter.li/1osm5r.

About Thermo Fisher Scientific

Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. is the world leader in serving science, with annual revenue exceeding $30 billion. Our Mission is to enable our customers to make the world healthier, cleaner and safer. Whether our customers are accelerating life sciences research, solving complex analytical challenges, improving patient diagnostics and therapies or increasing productivity in their laboratories, we are here to support them. Our global team of more than 80,000 colleagues delivers an unrivaled combination of innovative technologies, purchasing convenience and pharmaceutical services through our industry-leading brands, including Thermo Scientific, Applied Biosystems, Invitrogen, Fisher Scientific, Unity Lab Services and Patheon. For more information, please visit www.thermofisher.com.

(PRNewsfoto/Thermo Fisher Scientific)

Media Contact Information:

Laura Glass

Thermo Fisher Scientific

+1 (971) 330-8955

laura.glass@thermofisher.com

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SOURCE Thermo Fisher Scientific
Free Salonpas Pain Relief Patch Available Online

FLORHAM PARK, NJ/ ACCESSWIRE / May 3, 2021 / Every year on May 18, Salonpas Day celebrates freedom from pain. Now it's the subject of a new 15-second television commercial from Hisamitsu America launching today. The Salonpas Day television ad underscores the company's mission to improve people's lives through topical pain relief and announces the launch of TrySalonpas.com, where consumers can request a free sample of the company's product.

"Traditionally, Hisamitsu employees hand out free samples around the world each Salonpas Day, fulfilling our mission by sharing the benefits of safe, targeted pain relief with our communities," said John Incledon, President, Hisamitsu America, the marketers of Salonpas, the world's number one pain patch brand. "Although COVID-19 is once again disrupting our plans to deliver samples in-person, we are excited to get 100,000 Salonpas Pain Relief Patches, the first FDA-approved OTC topical pain reliever, into the hands of pain sufferers nationwide."

The television ad, developed by ADK America, features the web address (TrySalonpas.com) for consumers to request a sample of the Salonpas Pain Relief Patch. This patch contains two powerful pain fighting ingredients, menthol and methyl salicylate (an NSAID - a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug) that provide powerful relief for muscle or joint pain that lasts up to 12 hours.

Free samples of the Salonpas Pain Relief Patch are available at TrySalonpas.com while supplies last.

Salonpas Day falls on May 18th (05/18) each year because "Kori wo Iyasu," which translates to "relieve stiffness" in Japanese, also contains references to the numbers 5, 1, and 8.

About Hisamitsu America:

Hisamitsu America is the US division of Hisamitsu Pharmaceutical Co., Inc., founded in 1847, which has specialized in transdermal drug delivery system technology since the introduction of its Salonpas line of patches in 1934. The Salonpas product line, which gained early acceptance in Asia and is now registered in over 30 countries, has pioneered the development of transdermal patches to relieve pain. Since 2010, Salonpas has become one of the fastest growing OTC brands in the USA. Salonpas became the most popular pain relief brand on Facebook in 2020. For more information, visit https://us.hisamitsu/.

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Media Contact:

Nancy Thompson, Vorticom, Inc.

Office: (212) 532-2208

Mobile: (917) 371-4053

nancyt@vorticom.com

SOURCE: Hisamitsu America





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List ranks 10 largest U.S. cities based on sleep duration

HOUSTON, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- To reinforce the importance of sleep during Better Sleep Month, Mattress Firm and its partner SleepScore Labs are sharing the inaugural "Sleep-Deprived Cities Across America" list to help cities that are short on sleep improve their sleeping habits. Using data from SleepScore Labs*, the list was compiled using data from the 10 largest U.S. cities** to see who is sleeping the best, who is sleeping the worst, who is staying up the latest and more.

Experience the interactive Multichannel News Release here:

https://www.multivu.com/players/English/8851951-mattress-firm-and-sleepscore-labs-announce-sleep-deprived-cities/

Sleep-Deprived Cities Across America

Making the top of the list as most sleep-deprived is Atlanta with an average of five hours and forty-five minutes of sleep per night, and Boston closes out the list as the most sleep- efficient with just over six hours of sleep per night. Based on the data, it also might be time for New York City to drop its signature tagline of "the city that never sleeps." According to SleepScore's analysis, New York City is more accurately the city that stays up the latest with an average bedtime of 11:55 p.m.; but New Yorkers also wake up later than other cities, still giving them just shy of six hours of time in bed.

One thing that is clear is no major city is clocking in the recommended minimum of seven hours of sleep per night. Experts recommends that adults obtain seven or more hours to reap the benefits of a healthy night's sleep, meaning many Americans are sleep deprived. Additional SleepScore data captured from their in-app polling also suggests that bedtime procrastination, especially doomscrolling, could be key factor of why Americans are staying up later, with 73% of SleepScore poll respondents saying they always use electronics before going to bed  a known disruptor of falling and staying asleep.

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Atlanta (5 hours, 45 minutes) Dallas Fort-Worth (5 hours, 46 minutes) Houston (5 hours, 48 minutes) Los Angeles (5 hours, 51 minutes) New York City (5 hours, 55 minutes) Philadelphia (5 hours, 58 minutes) San Francisco (5 hours, 59 minutes) Chicago (6 hours, 1 minute) Washington DC (6 hours, 2 minutes) Boston (6 hours, 3 minutes)

There's also a clear connection between exercise and sleep. Experts say getting at least 30 minutes of daytime exercise five days per week can help your body relax more in the hours leading up to bedtime, and the data reinforces that notion. At number seven on the list, San Franciscans spend an average of 32 minutes exercising and get nearly 15 more minutes of precious shuteye than number two on the list, Dallas, who spends an average of 27 minutes per day getting some form of exercise.

"Getting a minimum of seven hours of sleep is essential for a quality night's rest, which is one of the many tips I share on Mattress Firm's wellness site, Sleep.com, where I offer foundational sleep advice to help Americans get their best rest," said Dr. W. Chris Winter, Sleep.com's Sleep Advisor. "Having a consistent bedtime routine and exercising each day for at least 30 minutes are two easy ways to kickstart a healthy lifestyle and improve one's emotional, mental and physical well-being. If your city is listed as sleep-deprived, consider adjusting your sleep schedule and implementing healthy habits to get a good night's sleep."

Mattress Firm and SleepScore Labs understand the importance of quality sleep and hope Americans see this list as a wake-up call to adjust their habits. If your city is listed above as a big city short on sleep, Better Sleep Month is the perfect time to reevaluate your sleep routine and implement positive changes. For more information on how to get a better night's sleep, visit mattressfirm.com.

*SleepScore Data: Analysis includes SleepScore data from a selection of the most populous US cities that have a large sample of active SleepScore users. Within this analysis, SleepScore reviewed each city's average bedtime, wake-up time, sleep duration, and the relationship between lifestyle factors like exercise and healthy sleep across the U.S.

**Largest U.S. cities according to 2021 Nielsen DMA rankings which are based on market region population.

About Mattress Firm

For the past 90 years, Mattress Firm has made it easy to get a great night's sleep by providing our customers an expertly curated collection of quality mattresses from the best brands Today, with 2,400 neighborhood stores and more than 6,000 Sleep Experts, we strive to match every customer with their perfect mattress at the perfect price. Our Sleep Experts help more than 3 million people a year find the right solution for their sleep needs. Our selection of mattresses and bedding accessories include leading brands such as Beautyrest, Nectar, Sealy, Serta, Simmons, Sleepy's Stearns & Foster, Tempur-Pedic, Tuft & Needle, tulo, and Purple. We also offer customers Sleep.com as a go-to resource for learning how to sleep better and feel better. Committed to serving our communities, the Mattress Firm Foster Kids program, in partnership with the Ticket to Dream Foundation, joined forces with local foster care non-profit partners to help children in foster care get better sleep so they can shape a better future. For more information, visit http://www.mattressfirm.com.

About SleepScore Labs

We're the sleep science and improvement company changing the world by improving sleep, based on science and leading-edge technology. SleepScore Labs was founded in 2016 by a team of sleep experts from companies, institutions and organizations such as ResMed, Apple, Philips, and Harvard. Together, we enable leading companies and organizations to strengthen their health and wellness offerings, proven through better sleep. After studying over 70 million hours of sleep for over a decade, we created the world's most comprehensive suite of services which help consumers improve their sleep and companies to improve their offerings in the space. Initially a Joint Venture between ResMed, Dr. Mehmet Oz, and Pegasus Capital Advisors L.P, the company has grown to include other strategic partners and investors. Headquartered in Carlsbad, CA, with an office in Dublin, Ireland, we've developed SleepScore technology powered by ResMed to offer the world's most accurate sleep app. SleepScore Labs' ecosystem also provides data insights, product innovation and validation tools, and technology licensing opportunities for companies developing products and solutions aimed at improving the sleep of hundreds of millions of people.

SleepScore does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment through its service or its available functions. The content and service provided are intended solely as a resource and informational tool to improve your sleep. Always seek the advice of a physician or qualified health provider for any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Mattress Firm

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SOURCE Mattress Firm
International students also expressed anxiety about the loss of the traditional on-campus university experience and the sense of belonging that is created through person to person interaction and an engaged learning environment full of opportunities to exchange diverse ideas and perspectives with their peers, said Adam Julian, director of international student and scholar services at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County in an email.
Reuters

DUBLIN (Reuters) -Ireland's finance minister said he remained confident the country's low-tax economy would continue to attract multinational investment and jobs even as an overhaul of global corporation tax rules moved a major step closer on Saturday. The United States, Britain and other leading nations agreed to back a minimum global rate of at least 15% and for firms to pay more tax in the markets where they sell goods and services rather than in countries like Ireland where they book profits. Ireland, long resigned to having more to lose than most from the reforms due to the attractiveness of its 12.5% rate to foreign multinationals, continued to press the case that any final deal must meet the needs of small and large countries.
SAN FRANCISCO, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- SimX continues to expand its partnership with the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Space Force to develop innovative training solutions for special operations forces, with four new contracts totaling over $1.5 million. These contracts, part of the $2.5M Virtual Advancement of Learning and Operational Readiness (VALOR) research and development program, seek to further develop fielded capabilities for training the USAF's elite medical personnel with the SimX Virtual Reality Medical Simulation System.

A pararescueman participates in a virtual reality medical scenario during the Special Operations Center for Medical Integration and Development Field Training Exercise led by the 24th Special Operations Wing at Pelham Range Complex in Anniston, Alabama. The SOCMID course was created by the 24th SOW as an effort to better maintain operational readiness of Air Force Special Warfare operators and medical personnel. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Sandra Welch)

The new funding is targeted primarily towards enhancing the capabilities of the system to train operational medical handoffs between roles of care, train missions involving multiple simultaneous caregiving teams, train in dynamic and realistic environments (such as night and weather operations), and provide more customizable and adaptable training capabilities. Additional funding has also been allocated to adapting VR medical simulation training for in-flight medicine during aerial and space operations with the Air Force and Space Force.

These partnerships provide a capability for special operations medical personnel of the 24th Special Operations Wing, to train through simulated medical scenarios based on real-world experience and reinforce learning on the relevant medical techniques, tactics and protocols. The overall objective is to enable the wing's Special Tactics operators including pararescuemen and combat controllers as well as their unit medics and Special Operations Surgical Teams to "train how they fight." The capabilities include a broad array of situations, including Tactical Combat Casualty Care-based scenarios as well as routine medical care in order to provide training across the continuum of care in a variety of medical roles. All newly developed capabilities will be fielded for operational testing and evaluation at the existing SimX deployments at installations across the United States as well as USAF installations in Europe and Asia.

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"The practice of medicine depends on high performance teams working together fluidly and transferring knowledge and responsibility rapidly, efficiently, and effectively. The USAF and USSF's continued investment in the VALOR program will enable us to continue to push the envelope of VR medical training by ensuring that we can train for these critical interactions," said Karthik V. Sarma, VALOR Principal Investigator and Chief Technology Officer at SimX.

Col. John R. Dorsch, Wing Surgeon of the 24th Special Operations Wing (SOW), and medical director of the Air Force's Pararescue career field, heads the effort for the U.S. Air Force. ""The VALOR program is helping to increase overall medical capability and has the potential to improve survival rates in combat casualties," said Dorsch, "Expanding and innovating capabilities is critical for ensuring the highest level of combat trauma and austere medical care is provided by our special operators and medical personnel." In addition to the distribution to the 24th SOW's units stationed around the country, the new capabilities will be fielded at the new Special Operations Center for Medical Integration and Development (SOCMID) , a collaboration between the USAF and the University of Alabama-Birmingham designed to provide the next generation of standardized training to Special Operations Surgical Team members, pararescuemen and independent duty medical technicians.

These projects are made possible through the highly competitive Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) programs, in collaboration with AFWERX, a team of innovation specialists within the USAF, and the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), the primary scientific research and development center for the Air Force. 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, the Air Force has begun offering 'Special' SBIR topics that are faster, leaner and open to a broader range of innovations.

SimX's industry leading virtual reality medical simulation platform is used around the world and by top institutions including Mayo Clinic, Stanford, Northwestern, University of Pennsylvania, the US Air Force, and many others. It allows trainees to work together in multiplayer virtual reality cases either together in the same space or from the safety of their own homes. SimX's unique system allows for a "holodeck-like" experience without dropdown menus or virtual selections. You talk with and interact with virtual patients the same way that you would in real life. The scalable SimX Scenario System allows for very rapid development of new training materials and cases, and instant deployment to all learners. Learn more about the SimX System at simxvr.com .

Contact:

Ryan Ribeira

650-862-7471

309045@email4pr.com

The SimX system allows for highly immersive and customizable scenarios, and this new funding will enhance the capabilities of the system to train operational medical handoffs between roles of care, train missions involving multiple simultaneous caregiving teams, train in dynamic and realistic environments such as night and weather operations. Additional funding will go towards development of in-flight medicine during aerial and space operations.

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SOURCE SimX
SANTA CLARA, CA / ACCESSWIRE / May 3, 2021 / SPI Energy Co., Ltd. ("SPI Energy" or the "Company") (NASDAQ:SPI), a global renewable energy company and provider of solar storage and electric vehicle (EV) solutions for business, residential, government, logistics and utility customers and investors, today announced Solar4America, a subsidiary of the Company's SolarJuice Co., Ltd. ("SolarJuice") subsidiary and one of the largest privately held solar and roofing installers in the US, launched its S4A-Hybrid (DC/AC compatible) Battery System, a UL-certified residential battery storage solution.



The Solar4America-branded battery storage solution is significantly upgraded by solar4America R&D teams and associates for the US market with the latest power electronics, communciations and battery technologies, based on SolarJuice's proven Opal Storage technology in the Australian market in the four years since its original launch. For further information please visit our website www.solar4america.com or email sales@solar4america.com.

With up to 8.6-kilowatt max output, intelligent energy management, and on-grid/off-grid seamless switching, the fully UL-certified battery system is outdoor rated and provides homeowners with complete control of the energy in their home using real-time data.

Xiaofeng Peng, Chairman and CEO of SPI Energy, commented, "We will provide our American customers with a reliable energy storage solution and superior installation and customer services. We have generated strong sales in Australia with Opal Storage and are confident we can produce even greater success and customer experience in the massive US market. In anticipation of high demand, we plan to inventory the Solar4America smart energy storage systems at our distribution facilities in both California and Florida."

The global battery energy storage market is projected to reach $19.7 billion by 2027, growing at a 20.4% CAGR, according to Fortune Business Insights.

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About SPI Energy

SPI Energy Co., Ltd. (SPI) is a global renewable energy company and provider of solar storage and electric vehicle (EV) solutions for business, residential, government, logistics and utility customers and investors. The Company provides a full spectrum of EPC services to third-party project developers, as well as develops, owns and operates solar projects that sell electricity to the grid in multiple countries, including the U.S., the U.K., Greece, Japan and Italy. The Company has its US headquarters in Santa Clara, California and maintains global operations in Asia, Europe, North America and Australia. SPI is also targeting strategic investment opportunities in green industries such as battery storage and charging stations, leveraging the Company's expertise and growing base of cash flow from solar projects and funding development of projects in agriculture and other markets with significant growth potential.

For more information on SPI Energy and its subsidiaries, the Company recommends that stockholders, investors and any other interested parties read the Company's public filings and press releases available under the Investor Relations section at www.SPIgroups.com or available at www.sec.gov.

About SolarJuice

SolarJuice Co., Ltd. ("SolarJuice") is the leader in renewable energy system solutions for residential and small commercial markets. Established in 2009, the Company is headquartered in Sydney, Australia and delivers a one-stop global solution for solar panels, inverters, and battery systems. Since inception, the Company has served over 3,000 B2B accounts and 400 customers. SolarJuice also plans to grow its supply chain, enhance its technology platform and looks to expand its product delivery throughout the Asia Pacific Region and the North America markets. With the recent acquisition of Solar4America, one of the largest privately held solar and roofing installers in the United States, this will allow the Company to serve more customers in the growing California, Nevada, Texas, Florida, and Colorado markets. With more than a million solar systems and roofs under its belt, the Pleasanton, CA-based company now employs hundreds of installers and operates in five states: California, Florida, Nevada, Colorado and Texas.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements, as that term is defined in the Private Litigation Reform Act of 1995, that involve significant risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements can be identified through the use of words such as may," "might," "will," "intend," "should," "could," "can," "would," "continue," "expect," "believe," "anticipate," "estimate," "predict," "outlook," "potential," "plan," "seek," and similar expressions and variations or the negatives of these terms or other comparable terminology. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which reflect the Company's current expectations and speak only as of the date of this release. Actual results may differ materially from the Company's current expectations depending upon a number of factors. These factors include, among others, the coronavirus (COVID-19) and the effects of the outbreak and actions taken in connection therewith, adverse changes in general economic and market conditions, competitive factors including but not limited to pricing pressures and new product introductions, uncertainty of customer acceptance of new product offerings and market changes, risks associated with managing the growth of the business, and those other risks and uncertainties that are described in the "Risk Factors" section of the Company's annual report filed on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Except as required by law, the Company does not undertake any responsibility to revise or update any forward-looking statements.

SPI Energy Co., Ltd. Contact:

IR Department

ir@spigroups.com

Dave Gentry

RedChipCompanies, Inc.

Phone:(407) 491-4498

dave@redchip.com

SOURCE: SPI Energy Co., Ltd.





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Sponda Ltd Press release 3 May 2021 at 9:00 a.m.

Sponda supports construction of new wind power farm in Finland

Sponda, one of Finlands leading real estate asset management companies, has today announced an agreement with Helen, one of the largest energy companies in the country, that will enable the construction of a new wind power farm in Ostrobothnia, Finland. As a result, 100% of the electricity consumption in Spondas properties will be produced by emission-free wind power. The agreement supports Spondas objective of carbon neutrality, highlighted in the companys sustainability programme.

From 2022, 50% of the wind power used by Sponda to cover electricity consumption will be generated at Helens new Lakiakangas 3 wind farm. The remaining 50% of required electricity will be obtained from other Nordic wind farms. Guarantees of origin, issued for electricity produced from renewable energy sources, will ensure the electricity is generated by wind power.

Spondas sustainability programme objective is to achieve carbon neutrality for in-use energy consumption by 2030. The new wind power agreement supports Spondas goal of emission-free electricity supply, which is included in the companys climate road map. Sponda is one of the first operators in the real estate sector to promote the construction of a new wind farm in Finland.

As a renewable and emission-free energy, wind power plays an important role in the achievement of climate targets, in addition to contributing to domestic energy self-sufficiency. As a major operator in the real estate sector, we have the opportunity and a duty to support the work to mitigate climate change. The use of wind power also supports the achievement of our sustainability targets, says Pirkko Airaksinen, Sustainability Manager at Sponda.

It is great that together with Sponda, we can promote a carbon-neutral future. We want to offer our customers services that renew the energy sector. The Lakiakangas 3 wind farm is a good example of a solution in which customers can buy wind power also in larger shares of the power plant's production. The model is already in use when selling solar power; now we are also bringing it into wind power, says Anu-Elina Hintsa, Director of Sales and Customer Service at Helen.

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Sponda Ltd



Further information:

Anita Riikonen, Marketing and Brand Manager, tel. +358 40 833 3804, anita.riikonen@sponda.fi



Sponda is a leading real estate asset management company in Finland specialising in owning, managing, developing and letting commercial properties in the largest cities across the country. With a focus on customer-oriented solutions and high-quality properties, Sponda is actively developing best practices in the sector, enhancing the cityscape and the environment in a sustainable way, and supporting its customers. www.sponda.fi

Helen Ltd provides easier and more streamlined everyday living for nearly 500,000 customers in Finland. In addition to heat, cooling and electricity, it offers solutions for regional and renewable energy, smart housing, and electric mobility. The company is developing a smarter carbon-neutral energy system that allows everyone to produce, use and save energy with respect for the environment. Helens target is to achieve 100% carbon neutrality in its energy production by 2035. Lets join forces and make the possibilities of a new energy era a reality! www.helen.fi




HONG KONG and SHANGHAI and MUMBAI, India, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- On May 2 morning, Fosun responded swiftly to India's plight and a new batch of medical protective supplies - 100,000 KN95 masks  has arrived in Mumbai from Shanghai. This is another rapid aid following Fosun's donation of 5,000 pieces of prevention supplies to Mumbai in March 2020. Shanghai and Mumbai are sister cities, and their residents are bound by their joint determination to fight the pandemic. Meanwhile, 150 Breas ventilators donated by Indian pharmaceutical company Gland Pharma, a member company of Fosun, will also be shipped to India this week.

On May 2, 100,000 KN95 masks, a new batch of medical protective supplies aided by Fosun, arrived in Mumbai from Shanghai.

In India, the number of daily confirmed cases of COVID-19 has continued to increase since April, setting consecutive record highs, and the situation has been deteriorating. Fosun has been closely monitoring the local situation as it develops. Under the unified command and coordination of Fosun's "Global War Command Against COVID-19" team, the Mainland Chinese team and the local Indian team have worked closely to quickly organize and carry out its "global humanitarian aid plan". In less than four days, the teams managed to deploy, amass and ship 100,000 KN95 masks to help local residents of Mumbai fight the pandemic.

In addition, this batch of medical aids will be used to protect our staff in India, and more than half of the supplies will be distributed by Ahuja Hive, Fosun's business platform in India, to provide the supplies for the people of local frontline health care institutions and grassroots communities so as to meet the urgent need of local communities. Since the outbreak of COVID-19, the India-based Ahuja Hive team has participated actively in the global medical supply deployment plan initiated by Fosun. It has organized many community care activities, and has donated basic daily necessities such as oil, rice, bread, and other goods to grassroots families, ensuring normal living conditions for every household.

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The dramatic deterioration of the COVID-19 pandemic situation in recent days reflects a severe shortage of frontline oxygen equipment in India's health care system, which has made it difficult to cope with soaring patient demand. Leveraging its global sourcing capabilities and logistics network, Fosun Trade spared no effort in deploying crucial oxygen equipment, such as oxygen concentrators, small oxygen generators, and ventilators, to India. As of today, Fosun Trade confirmed that around 20,000 small oxygen generators will arrive one after another in India. Fosun Trade will continue to ride on its global resources integration capabilities, try its best to provide medical protective supplies, nucleic acid test kits, and other necessary aid to help the world fight against COVID-19.

On January 24, 2020, Fosun launched its global medical supply deployment plan and procured close to 3 million pieces of medical supplies from more than 20 countries around the world to help COVID-19 stricken areas in China. On March 1, Fosun officially started the second phase of its operations against COVID-19, and support the global fight against the epidemic. By the end of last year, Fosun had deployed and donated more than 50 million medical protection supplies such as masks, protective suits, and nucleic acid test kits etc, to more than 30 countries, including Italy, the United States of America, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, Portugal, Japan, South Korea, and India.

Guo Guangchang, Chairman of Fosun International, said, "As a global enterprise, we firmly believe in 'a community with a shared future for mankind'. We will stand together with people across the world. We are extremely concerned about the health and safety of our staff and customers and hope to do our part to help the world defeat COVID-19 as soon as possible. As long as we unite and mutually support and help each other, I believe that we can harness the wisdom of the entire human race, and that we will definitely overcome the difficulties and defeat the virus."

SOURCE Fosun
WINTERTHUR, Switzerland, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Swiss start-up Turicode has changed its name to Acodis. The name change is part of an overall rebranding that will promote clear visual communication for its upcoming Intelligent Document Processing (IDP) platform. The new visual identity includes a new name, logo, and design principles inspired by the company's mission to turn documents into value.

Acodis Logo

A New Look for New Standards

Acodis CEO and co-founder Martin Keller emphasises that the new brand identity is the next logical step of the company's growth. "Over the past five years, Acodis has been able to solve many challenges in document processing for its numerous customers with the help of machine learning. This experience has been carefully immersed into the development of the new Acodis platform. The software is setting new standards in terms of ease-of-use, versatility, security and performance in the field of IDP."

Director of Marketing Simon Lehmann says, "Every day, more businesses are looking to us as they take their next step toward fully automated document processes. The new Acodis identity will give them a consistent experience across all touchpoints in their journey."

Enabling Automated Document Processing With IDP

The technology enables companies to automate all key aspects of document-heavy business processes with just a few clicks. Acodis IDP automates:

Document inspection Document classification Data extraction Data validation and analysis

The IDP platform from Acodis is powered by machine learning and allows for much faster and more intelligent automation than existing robotic process automation options. Acodis has pioneered this field for five years, and the upcoming platform represents the future of intelligent automation. Since every business process starts, involves, or ends with documents, the market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 70-80% (Source: Everest Group), and companies that adopt machine learning are expected to shape the future after Covid-19 (Source: Boston Consulting Group).

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Contact Details

Simon Lehmann

simon.lehmann@acodis.io

+41 52 520 6202

acodis.io

About Acodis

Acodis is dedicated to the automation of business documents since its founding in 2016. The Acodis IDP platform, powered by machine learning, enables automated processing of any document within seconds. This replaces manual document transfers and allows extracted data to be exported in a structured format. Acodis is based in Winterthur, Switzerland, and currently employs 25 people.

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Participate in the challenge to jumpstart a healthy lifestyle

BALTIMORE, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- May marks the start of Women's Health Month, a time dedicated to the health and wellness of women throughout the world. The Urology Care Foundation, the world's leading nonprofit urological health foundation, utilizes the month of May to educate and raise awareness of urology-related conditions and diseases that mostly affect women like: overactive bladder, urinary tract infections, incontinence, interstitial cystitis and bladder cancer. The cornerstone to Women's Health Month is National Women's Health Week (May 9  15), which begins on Mother's Day and focuses on heightening the awareness of early detection and treatment of disease as well as techniques to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Urology Care Foundation

The Urology Care Foundation is encouraging women to participate in the "Get up and Go!" Challenge during the month of May. The challenge inspires those who join to focus on self-care and to listen to their bodies.

Week 1: Get up and Go to the Bathroom! Holding your urine for too long can weaken the bladder muscles over time. This can lead to problems like incontinence and not being able to fully empty your bladder. Try to urinate every 3-4 hours during the day.

Week 2: Get up and Go Hydrate! Becoming dehydrated can lead to concentrated urine which can irritate your bladder. Adults should drink 6-8 oz of water a day for a healthy bladder.

Week 3: Get up and Go for a Walk! Physical activity can help prevent bladder problems and helps maintain a healthy weight. Aim for 30 minutes of walking a day.

Week 4: Get Up and Go Relax! Some research suggests that mindful meditation can reduce the frequency and urgency of overactive bladder episodes. Meditation can help calm the body and mind.

"Over the past year, many women have been keenly focused on keeping their families healthy. Women's Health Month is a call for women to take control of their own health," said Harris M. Nagler, MD, president of the Urology Care Foundation. "The Urology Care Foundation is a trusted resource with a robust variety of materials that can help women become empowered by providing women free videos, podcasts, downloadable brochures and other information spanning all urologic diseases and conditions. Our goal is to help women understand what steps they can take to improve not only their urologic health, but their overall health. Our goal is to have women become their own advocates for their own health."

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The Foundation has launched its Women's Health Info Center promoting resources aligned with each weekly theme at www.urologyhealth.org/womenshealth. In addition, the Foundation will utilize Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, podcasts and more to disseminate information to promote a public dialogue and awareness around women's health issues.

About the Urology Care Foundation: The Urology Care Foundation is the world's leading nonprofit urological health foundation, and the official foundation of the American Urological Association. Partnering with physicians, researchers, healthcare professionals, patients, caregivers, families and the public, the Foundation supports and improves urologic clinical care by funding research, developing patient education and pursuing philanthropic support. To learn more about the Urology Care Foundation and its programs visit: www.urologyhealth.org.

About the American Urological Association: Founded in 1902 and headquartered near Baltimore, Maryland, the American Urological Association is a leading advocate for the specialty of urology and has nearly 24,000 members throughout the world. The AUA is a premier urologic association, providing invaluable support to the urologic community as it pursues its mission of fostering the highest standards of urologic care through education, research and the formulation of health policy. www.AUAnet.org

Contact: Teri Arnold, Corporate Communications and Media Relations Manager, 757-272-7002; tarnold@auanet.org

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SOURCE Urology Care Foundation
Verizon has revealed that its offloading Yahoo and AOL to private equity firm Apollo Global Management for $5 billion, around half of what it paid for the two properties.

Verizon will retain a 10 percent stake in the company, which will be known as Yahoo at the close of the transaction and which will continue to be led by chief executive officer Guru Gowrappan.

More from WWD

The sale will include the whole of Verizons media arm, also encompassing its advertising business.

Verizon Media has done an incredible job turning the business around over the past two-and-a-half years and the growth potential is enormous, said Hans Vestberg, CEO of Verizon. The next iteration requires full investment and the right resources. During the strategic review process, Apollo delivered the strongest vision and strategy for the next phase of Verizon Media. I have full confidence that Yahoo will take off in its new home.

Gowrappan added: With Apollos sector expertise and strategic insight, Yahoo will be well positioned to capitalize on market opportunities, media and transaction experience and continue to grow our full stack digital advertising platform. This transition will help to accelerate our growth for the long-term success of the company.

Verizon paid $4.4 billion for AOL in 2015 and $4.48 billion for Yahoo two years later. But recently it has struggled with the properties due to Google and Facebook  as well as Amazon  hoovering up digital ads, which has weighed on many media companies struggling.

Reed Rayman, private equity partner at Apollo, said: We are big believers in the growth prospects of Yahoo and the macro tailwinds driving growth in digital media, advertising technology and consumer internet platforms.

Apollos other assets include the Venetian resort in Las Vegas.
Spring storms are in the forecast this week in Fredericksburg.

The sunshine and gusty winds over the past weekend are gone, thanks to a warm front pushing northward through Fredericksburg this Monday morning. A low-pressure center over Kentucky will track into western Pennsylvania Monday, dragging that warm front farther north. Southerly winds behind the boundary will help boost temperatures this afternoon to near 80 degrees despite the cloud cover.

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Those south winds will open the door to Gulf of Mexico moisture, setting the stage for showers and thunderstorms that will deposit a quarter-inch or more of liquid in local rain gauges. In fact, the Fredericksburg vicinity is under a Marginal Risk (level 1 out of 5) for severe storms today. The left graphic panel shows several ways to receive weather warnings while the right panel illustrates several hazards of severe weather. Its advisable to have more than one way to receive warnings in order to have adequate notice to take shelter if a severe storm approaches.
They mobilized in less than 30 days with new innovations through product, ordering, and distribution changes, he said.

A number of those businesses have also been aided by the initial round of Paycheck Protection Program forgiveness loans administered through the SBA last year, as well as the round underway now. These funds have helped keep businesses afloat while the economy recovers, but they still lost clientele, and are having to pay for such things as rent while preparing for a post-pandemic business world, he said.

Things are slowly starting to get back to normal with The Centers for Disease Control and Preventions latest updated guidelines for the activities that vaccinated people nationwide can safely resume, and Northams further easing of restrictions on Virginias restaurants. Beginning May 15, they will be able to open bar seating for the first time in a year, sell alcohol after midnight and keep their dining rooms open between midnight and 5 a.m.

The RR Fund will be incredibly helpful in funding future change, Baker said. I personally like the broad interpretation for use of funds. It will allow business owners to use the funds where they are most needed.
Throughout this past year we have all been faced with challenges like never before. We have been forced out of our comfort zones and had to think outside of the box to find new ways to keep pushing forward. What I saw during this past year was an entire community coming together to keep Sykesville up and running. We may not have been able to host our traditional events but that did not stop us ... as the world went virtual, so did we. Our community came together to vote for Sykesville in the Best Main Street in America contest, and to no surprise we won! I saw residents supporting our small businesses and asking for more and more ways to support them. Several Main Street businesses began offering new ways of shopping  online, curbside pickup or even delivery options. I also saw volunteerism like never before, everyone wanted to help. A neat event that our volunteer partners just hosted was the Sykesville Plogging event. As I mentioned before, the word I used to describe my first year was inspiring and this event was nothing short of that. We had people of all ages working to clean up our community, we even had Town Council member Stacy Link out helping clean up the community.
Virginia State Police Sgt. Brent Coffey said the deputy attempted to speak to Brown and it was during the encounter that the deputy fired his weapon resulting in the 32-year-old being shot multiple times. The deputy immediately rendered medical aid before Brown was transported to Mary Washington Hospital, where he is still being treated for what authorities described as serious but non-life threatening injuries.

The Sheriffs Office has released the 911 call and body camera footage of the shooting. The recordings indicate Brown was holding a cordless phone and the deputy may have mistaken the phone for a gun.

Blosser said he believes cases similar to Browns should be prayerfully examined before passing judgment.

When these things happen, they have a potential to be divisive in a community, and as ministers in the region, we want to be able to come together and show the unity that we have in Christ and to cry out to God in prayer, said Blosser.

Carr also believes Floyds death left America a useful foundation from which the Fredericksburg region and the nation can build on toward achieving absolute racial equality for everyone.
WASHINGTON (AP)  The Supreme Court is leaving in place an appeals court decision that the family of a Black driver who was fatally shot by a white police officer in an Ohio city can't sue the city or the officer.
It remains to be seen whether North Platte will face a major spike in housing demand from a possible beef processing plant.

Even if it does, the few folks who remember World War II might say, Housing shortage? Well, let me tell you 

After the war ended on Sept. 2, 1945, North Platte, Nebraska and the nation despaired over where to house their returning service members.

Even without a major war industry, the hometown of the World War II Canteen had to take extraordinary measures to accommodate those wanting to live here.

One was North Plattes first trailer park, housing veterans and their families on city-leased land in shelters once part of the pursuit of the wars greatest secret weapon.

It lasted two years before disappearing from West 11th Streets north side. But the legacy of North Plattes housing crisis lives all over town  because one of every four homes here dates to the first 15 years of peace.

Slow-moving crisis

Should Sustainable Beef LLCs plant be built, company and city officials have said North Platte would have at least 18 months to get ready to house however many of its expected 875 employees move to town.

Wartime community leaders knew a crunch was coming, too  but they couldnt prepare.

Housing starts nationwide were only starting to recover from the Great Depression when the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor propelled America into the war in December 1941.

Home construction was stifled by strict regulations as the federal government labored to house troops in Europe and the Pacific.

North Platte still has 251 homes built in 1940, according to the Lincoln County Assessors Office. But only 152 current homes were built between 1941 and 1944.

The U.S. National Housing Agency in January 1944 approved a 37-unit project that would be privately built but house only essential war workers.

Only 20 would be new homes, with the other 17 units created by converting single-family homes into multiple dwellings, The Telegraph reported.

The limited project was welcome in light of a housing crunch that has been becoming acute in recent months, according to a Telegraph editorial on Jan. 8, 1944.

It had happened despite North Plattes failure to land military airfields like Scottsbluff, Alliance, Kearney and McCook or defense plants like Sidney, Grand Island and Hastings.

Today, North Platte is not sorry she has no major war plants and the resultant problems, The Telegraph continued. The city  is growing steadily and the growth is healthy  one that will last and continue far beyond the end of the war.

By 1950, North Plattes prewar population of 12,429 had swelled to 15,433. Only two decades  the 1910s (5,673) and 1970s (5,062)  have seen more net population growth in North Platte than the 1940s (3,004).

The crisis arrives

Local alarm bells were sounding as 1945 began. The Daily Bulletin, noting the citys acute housing shortage, reported Jan. 2 that the NHA would let more single-family homes be turned into multifamily ones so far as materials are obtainable.

When federal approval came in late February, however, only 10 new units were authorized. A month later, the government imposed rent controls across Lincoln County, fulfilling a Jan. 5 Bulletin editorial prophecy.

Though the overwhelming majority of landlords had tried to keep rents in line, a few have put their rental property on the auction block, with the bidding rising to fantastic proportions due to the housing shortage in this city, the paper had said.

Since 1941 more and more homes which formerly would have been considered undesirable have been rented, The Telegraph added May 9, two days after the German surrender in Europe.

Japan would give up three months later, convinced at last by Augusts twin U.S. atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. But with an invasion of Japans home islands having been expected in November, material shortages would continue until the first soldiers, sailors and fliers who would need housing were already on their way home.

Canteen fans come back

Assessors records show that 183 current North Platte homes date to 1945  an indication that builders got busy once federal supply controls were lifted in October.

But the Federal Housing Administration had approved only 35 new homes in July and 17 more in August. Meanwhile, teachers were struggling to find rooms to rent.

Until more homes are built, we are at a stalemate, the Bulletin said Sept. 25. People cant move here if they have no place to live.

Neither could potential employers or even non-North Platte veterans unexpectedly enchanted during one of 6 million wartime stops at the Union Pacific Depot.

Several new businesses wish to locate here. Hundreds of persons would make this their home if they could, said a Nov. 27 Bulletin editorial.

Many servicemen are looking to North Platte as a future home because of the magnificent work of the North Platte Canteen, which wouldnt close until April 1, 1946.

North Platte, like countless U.S. cities and towns, would in time build its way out. The city today has 321 homes built in 1950, one of six postwar years through 1960 to welcome more than 100 still-standing homes.

But how would North Platte cope until then?

Prefabs and trailers

Prefabricated homes were part of the answer. Sears, Roebuck & Co. had sold simple house plans and building materials as a kit before the war, a practice the Gambles hardware store chain would take a step farther.

A Bulletin ad on June 4, 1946, offered a 16-foot by 24-foot Cottage Home for $1,182.50, featuring cedar siding which effectively eliminates all joints and eliminates any prefabricated look.

Some opted for a 12-foot by 36-foot corrugated-steel home offered by Montgomery Ward & Co. Others turned to the Quonset huts familiar from wartime bases.

But building materials remained scarce. Some people were buying rental homes and evicting tenants so they could live in them themselves, the Bulletin reported Nov. 6.

A day later, its Round the Town With The Prowler column began: We knew the housing situation was in a stage of an acute shortage, but the report yesterday of a returned serviceman, purchasing an old furniture van and truck to remodel into living quarters, should dispel any lingering doubt in anyones mind.

On Nov. 24, The Telegraph started a housing editorial on its front page, first telling about two veterans who had stopped at its office.

All they wanted was just a sleeping room  some place to bunk at night, it said. But rooms, like houses, are a very minus quantity in North Platte.

The editorial urged residents to consider renting rooms in their homes. Anything, any method, which will help alleviate such conditions is worth prompt and serious consideration.

Yet another answer was emerging from City Council and North Platte chamber meetings and a weekly Dutch Treat Forum gathering of community leaders.

On Dec. 21  the same day North Plattes own William M. Jeffers announced his retirement as U.P. president  The Telegraph reported the federal government would send 80 trailers to North Platte from McCook for exclusive rental by veterans and their families.

When they began showing up five months later  federal red tape having entangled the effort in the meantime  they had come instead from a notable location.

Sixty-four single trailers and 16 double ones  plus three restroom and two laundry trailers  were sent from the temporary wartime community at Oak Ridge, Tennessee, one of three U.S. Manhattan Project sites where the first atomic bombs were perfected.

Some 2,600 trailers had been shipped from Oak Ridge to various states by March, with 2,500 more to be repurposed once vacated, the Knoxville (Tennessee) News-Sentinel had written March 10.

Like an auto trailer

Don Klingenberg, owner of Platte Floral at North Jeffers and Fifth streets, had given the city a $50-per-month lease on 10 lots on the north side of the 900 and 1000 blocks of West 11th Street.

City services were available at the site one block south of the North Platte Cemetery. Single trailers similar to the ordinary auto trailer could be rented for $6 per week and double units for $7, according to a Telegraph ad on Dec. 8, 1945.

The housing situation in North Platte is really critical, but an honest attempt is being made to provide temporary relief, said the ad, which asked residents to loan money to a $15,000 fund for shipping the trailers.

Though the chamber collected only about $5,000, it returned the money in March 1946 when Congress made the trailers free to the city if rented to veterans.

The trailers slowly trickled in from Oak Ridge throughout summer 1946, with the first veterans finally moving in as August ended.

The 80-trailer housing project is oversubscribed, The Telegraph wrote Aug. 26. Some veterans and their families have found living quarters during the time the trailers were being prepared for occupancy, but with a waiting list, it is expected the trailers will be occupied as soon as they are ready.

Crisis fades away

Meanwhile, city officials were kept busy approving permanent building permits. After a Sept. 28 meeting at the Hotel Pawnee, the chamber formed a priority housing committee to help veterans secure federal priorities to help build 320 new homes.

Get the priority, place the order, get the lot and build the foundation, Federal Housing Administration Nebraska Director Holger Holm said in an Oct. 3 Telegraph story. The government will see that the building materials will be made available.

Veterans Day 1946 (then still called Armistice Day) brought a story in the newly merged Telegraph-Bulletin of the Busy Bee Womens Extension Club and its members husbands helping a veteran build his home on Burlington Boulevard.

At every opportunity, the men get together after work and go out to the location to build with help from floodlights, wrote reporter Margaret Brown.

The foundation is complete and so is the frame, while the siding and roofing is going on steadily at an increased tempo.

Slowly, the West 11th trailer park emptied. After two years, the city sold off the trailers during September and October 1948.

Nine homes sit on the site today, the majority of them built after their once-leased lots helped North Platte get through the toughest housing crunch in its 155-year history.

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Amid heightened violence and stalled peace talks between the Afghan government and the Taliban, the U.S. military says "small harassing attacks" have not significantly affected the early days of international forces' official withdrawal from Afghanistan.

The official U.S. and NATO pullout begun on May 1, leaving the war-torn country to an uncertain future, is expected to culminate in the last of up to 3,500 U.S. and 7,000 alliance troops departing by September 11.

"What we've seen are some small harassing attacks over the course of the weekend that have not had any significant impact, certainly not on our people or our resources there and bases," Pentagon spokesman John Kirby told reporters on May 3.

U.S. President Joe Biden postponed a May 1 deadline for complete withdrawal agreed between his predecessor and the Taliban after taking office in January, delaying by four months the end of two decades of foreign military presence.

NATO has said it would follow the same timetable for withdrawing members of its Resolute Support mission.

The Taliban has warned that the militants will target the foreign troops in the country.

The pullout will be a test for the Afghan security forces, with U.S. generals expressing concerns in recent weeks that it might lead to the collapse of the Afghan government or a new civil war.

But Afghan President Ashraf Ghani insisted last week that government forces were "fully capable" of keeping the militants at bay.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in London on May 3 that the United States was "very focused on a deliberate, safe, and orderly drawdown of our forces" in Afghanistan.

He said the United States was "not disengaging" and that "we intend to sustain our assistance" to Afghanistan despite the pullout.

Blinken also said that "we spent a good deal of time consulting with NATO allies" in connection with Biden's decision.

At a press conference alongside Blinken, British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said that "we do not feel ignored" by the United States.

Intra-Afghan peace efforts have stalled since the Western-backed government in Kabul and the Taliban began talks in Qatar last year.

An Istanbul international summit was for April, but the event was postponed because the Taliban refused to participate and no new date has been set.

With reporting by Reuters
High school students who are still learning virtually from home can participate in the clinics, too. Their parents or guardians must fill out a consent form, and it should be turned in at their childs school before the clinics begin. Students alone can go into the school when they arrive for their vaccines  anybody with them must stay outside in their vehicles.
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, graduations are subject to change. Some graduations are requiring advance tickets and some are not allowing in-p
Heidi Ganahl is a businesswoman, entrepreneur, author and at-large member of the University of Colorado Board of Regents, to which she was elected as a Republican in 2016.
What is happening in Colorado today, we see as becoming more and more like California and other deep blue states.
The effort to make a name change to three rural junior colleges is down to two, after the House Education Committee agreed on April 29 to remove Northeastern Junior College from a bill that would have taken the "junior" out of its name.
DHS, White House turn spotlight on ransomware

The Department of Homeland Security and the White House are putting the spotlight on combatting ransomware, actively developing plans to confront the issue.

DHS has assembled a task force with representatives from the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, Secret Service, Coast Guard and Immigration and Customs Enforcement's Homeland Security Investigations unit, according to Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. The new task force is part of the secretary's planned "60-day sprint" on ransomware that was announced in March as the first in a series of new efforts.

"Beyond CISAthe entire federal government is stepping up to face this challenge," Mayorkas said at an April 29 event hosted by the Institute for Security and Technology. "The White House is developing a plan dedicated to tackling this problem," and the Justice Department recently established its own task force focused on ransomware, he confirmed.

Ransomware "has disproportionately impacted the healthcare industry during the COVID pandemic, and has shut down schools, hospitals, police stations, city governments, and U.S. military facilities, according to a new report by IST featuring recommendations for the Biden administration on combatting ransomware.

Some of the report's recommendations include establishing a U.S. government "Joint Ransomware Task Force," forming an international coalition focused on ransomware, sanctioning countries that fail to take action against threat actors and designating ransomware a national security threat.

Mayorkas earlier this month issued a joint statement with Attorney General Merrick Garland and counterparts in the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand and Canada on the threat ransomware poses.

"Ransomware is a growing cyber threat which compromises the safety of our citizens, the security of the online environment, and the prosperity of our economies. It can be used with criminal intent, but is also a threat to national security," the April 7 statement said.

"The COVID-19 pandemic has seen cyber threat actors exploiting this new environment as a means of furthering malicious activity," the statement continued.

This article was first posted to FCW, a sibling site to GCN.
90% of Vermonts recent online UI claims flagged as fraudulent

Vermont has disabled its online unemployment insurance application system after 90% of the initial claims filed were flagged as fraudulent.

On April 28, the state said it removed the online application, which now forces applicants to call to initiate a claim. Our ultimate goal is to protect Vermonters, whether that be ensuring individuals receive timely benefits or preventing fraudsters from using the identities of innocent Vermonters to defraud the state, Labor Commissioner Michael Harrington said. In this case, the most secure solution was to remove the application and make the criminals have to call to open a claim. When we did this, the number of claims being filed dropped by 90% and so too did the fraud, he said.

A week earlier, the Labor Department began sending letters to residents who may have had fraudulent claims filed in their names. Recipients were asked to review the claim to ensure it is legitimate.

Its important to know that this is not a system issue, but rather a preventative measure to ensure the claimant is who they say they are, Harrington said of the letters. Think of it like the confirmation email you get when someone accesses your online account. We want you to know that a claim was filed using your information, and we want you to let us know when it wasnt really you who submitted the claim.

Meanwhile, another recent scam featured fraudsters posing as Labor Department officials texting Vermonters asking them to verify personal information as part of an enhanced benefits security program. The link in the text messages goes to a fraudulent site, officials warned on May 1.

The Labor Department said it has implemented additional identity verification measures for unemployment insurance claims and continues to work with federal partners and law enforcement to root out fraud.
Smith and the others were fleeing the scene of the shooting in a Jeep Cherokee when the driver ran a red light on Hanson Road and another vehicle with right-of-way struck the Jeep, according to police. No one in the second vehicle was injured, police said, and investigators do not believe anyone in the second vehicle was involved in the shooting.
INDUSTRY INSIGHT

Can zero trust really protect government from cyberattacks?

Its clear from the recent spate of cyberattacks on government networks, be it the SolarWinds incident or the Russian intelligence breach of the Treasury and Commerce Departments, our adversaries are finding new ways to infiltrate government systems. Once considered impenetrable, the U.S. now lags behind in cyberwarfare.

As Brandon Wales, acting director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, recently explained to lawmakers on the Homeland Security and Government Affairs Committee, Our adversaries have advanced, they are no longer using the same infrastructure to target us repeatedly. It is imperative that we adapt our security practices.

One of the approaches under discussion is zero trust.

Zero trust is based on the assumption that everyone, inside or outside the network, could be a threat. It is the strategy of skeptics, which in the field of security, pays significant dividends.

In the current climate though, zero trust has become a bit of a buzzword. Its important to examine how the term is being deployed and what the connotations are. While the National Institute of Standards and Technology and the National Cybersecurity Center of Excellence provide specific definitions of whats considered zero trust architecture, the basic idea calls for a single authenticated source of user identity combined with additional context, like policy compliance.

Practically speaking, zero trust involves adopting very granular, rigid user identification policies, strict authentication, role-based access, time and/or location access, and a host of other conditions that define when, where and how employees can access systems and digital assets. Data and resources are segmented down to the personal level. There is a new level of control so that any threat, even an internal one, can be contained.

How zero trust differs from previous approaches

Zero trust is a far cry from the guiding security principles that have been in place for decades. Frederick the Great once said, He who defends everything, defends nothing. This maxim led to a perimeter-based approach, where defenses were erected to safeguard what was inside the perimeter walls, protecting the network from any external threat.

That approach works great as long as agencies can absolutely guarantee that no threat can sneak in -- and that they have no bad actors within their organization. This is simply no longer a reality. Bad actors, foreign and domestic, are finding ways to pass through perimeter defenses -- maybe through a bug that wasnt fixed, a patch that wasnt installed or a system that was outdated or misconfigured. Once inside the perimeter, adversaries can explore systems undetected, often for months or even years, stealing secrets, wreaking havoc, spying  the list goes on.

Plus, with so many government employees working remotely during the pandemic, perimeter walls have gotten fuzzy and massively complex. Employees no longer have ready access to their IT departments, nor do they benefit from their usual protections. As such, threats have escalated in number and potential danger. Intruders see big opportunities from even the slightest slip.

Zero trust is the paranoid response. It is the know the secret knock, show two pieces of ID, use the code word and the special handshake to gain access to specific resources cousin of perimeter security -- and it is perpetually in force, questioning everything and everyone. This occurs concurrently with security and system hygiene applications running in the background.

Its not that simple

From this perspective, zero-trust technologies seem to be exactly what the U.S. government needs to protect its most sensitive data and operations. But is anything really ever that easy? Agencies dont just flip a switch to turn on a zero-trust environment; it requires a major commitment and ongoing administration. Access and privileges are constantly changing and need incessant monitoring. Policies often must be altered to cut off access immediately. Its an intensive effort.

It can also sink productivity if agencies attempt to implement zero trust at the highest scale. If they dont though, they might wind up with a piecemeal approach that still contains gaps -- even tiny ones -- that could expose vulnerabilities.

That said, zero trust has been years in the making, only drawing attention now as the associated technologies mature. It is well designed for todays world. It requires enormous planning to implement effectively and will require constant tweaking, but it has to start somewhere.

To move to zero trust, first and foremost, agencies should expect legacy systems to remain in place for a while, which means they wont be wasting existing investments. Then, agencies should review their most sensitive data and workflows to determine what needs greater protection and where they should limit access or manage sessions, starting with classified documents that should require multifactor authentication, privileged access or session management. Everything else can continue under perimeter control until it makes sense to make additional changes. Zero trust can be rolled out gradually.

No zero trust strategy is perfect, and each deployment will evolve as needs are assessed. If an agency enters into zero trust with the right resources and expectations in place, however, it will go a long way to protecting governments most sensitive assets from assault and exploitation.
Two men have been charged in the 2019 death of a Roanoke man who was shot and left off the side of a road in Hardy, according to the Franklin County Sheriffs Office.

Patrick Antoine Davis, 34, was arrested Wednesday in Danville, where he was last listed as living, and charged with second-degree murder, according to a news release.

One day later, Mario Rayshawn Day, 26, of Roanoke, was arrested in Marietta, Georgia, authorities said. Hes also accused of second-degree murder and will be extradited back to Virginia.

The arrests come after an investigation that spanned about 18 months. Travis Wayne Pannell, 30, was reported missing in October 2019.

He had been last seen in Roanoke on Oct. 4. His body was discovered three weeks later over the side of an embankment near Jubal Early Highway in the Hardy area, according to prior police statements and search warrant records.

In a search warrant, investigators wrote that Pannell was last reported seen at a Roanoke home that was also believed to be the residence of Patrick Davis at the time. Davis was one of two people being looked at in the case, officials wrote. The second person wasnt named in the 2019 documents.
That fourth branch of government is the nickname often applied to the State Corporation Commission, the panel that regulates utilities. For a long time, perhaps even since the agencys founding in 1902, the SCC was considered a friendly venue for those utilities. Now the Democratic majority in the General Assembly has installed two new judges on the three-judge panel, so well see what this remade SCC has in store.

We may get our first glimpse when the SCC decides how to regulate utilities under the Clean Economy Act, the landmark legislation the General Assembly passed last year to decarbonize the states electric grid. The eyes can play tricks. Many see that bill name and think Clean Energy Act. Its that, too, but the substitution of economy for energy was intentional  a way for proponents to make the case that green energy doesnt hurt the economy, it helps the economy. Broadly speaking, thats true. Renewable energy jobs are one of the fastest-growing parts of the economy; from 2014 to 2019 the solar-energy sector alone added 156,000 jobs in the U.S.  a growth rate of 167%. However, the catch is those new jobs being created are necessarily where the old ones in fossil fuels are being phased out. Thats where the Green New Dealers often dont have a very good response, but one that we in Virginia should be more concerned about. We only have a few counties that produce coal, but theyre still our counties  and the economic tentacles of coal, even in its reduced form, still reach far beyond the coalfields. There are lots of businesses in Roanoke that make a living selling equipment to coal companies.
For your mornings spent traveling, your afternoons spent by the water and all the times in between, here are nine products that will help make
Documents kept secret

The sheriffs office, the Forsyth County District Attorneys office and the State Bureau of Investigation kept Nevilles death a secret from the public.

Forsyth County Sheriff Bobby Kimbrough Jr. did not publicly acknowledge Nevilles death for seven months, until June 26, prompted by questions from the Winston-Salem Journal. He said later that Nevilles family had asked that no information be released about their fathers death.

The current fight focuses on documents the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services has that helped the N.C. Office of the Chief Medical Examiner determine how Neville died. They include the entirety of an internal police investigation and the SBI report into his death.

Under North Carolina law, SBI reports are not public record. However, once that report was handed over to NCDHHS it became public.

Those are the same records that lawmakers tried to keep secret when passing Senate Bill 168 last summer. The records remained public after public outcry led to a veto from Gov. Roy Cooper.
After canceling commencement a year ago because of the COVID-19 pandemic, local colleges and universities will once again hold in-person graduation ceremonies  lots of them  starting Friday.

Most schools have made several changes to commencement to provide a socially distanced experience. Ceremonies in some cases will be held over multiple days. Some institutions have picked new and larger venues to give graduates and their families plenty of room to spread out.

Most schools also cut back on the number of friends-and-family tickets issued to each graduate. UNCG and N.C. A&T, for instance, whose commencements are usually open to the general public, gave each graduate just two commencement tickets this year.

Most local colleges and universities will require graduates and guests to wear face coverings. Ceremonies to be held outside will take place rain or shine because schools lack indoor venues to accommodate a socially-distanced crowd. Some schools will honor the class of 2020 that missed commencement last May.

Dont worry if you cant attend: Local schools plan to livestream their commencement ceremonies on their websites.

Here are the 2021 commencement plans for each local college and university, with schools listed in order by the dates of their ceremonies:
The alliance creates opportunities for community colleges to share resources and expertise, meet community needs and generate cost savings for the colleges that can be passed on to students. The MEA creates a clear, seamless pathway for students to move from one community college to another, decreasing the need to run a highly specialized, costly and sometimes low-enrolled program at several locations.
Guilford County Sheriff Danny H. Rogers recently asked the Guilford County Board of Commissioners to approve funding to hire two more full-time civilian employees in the gun permit section to assist the current four employees and supervisor with the work load.

Earlier this month, Rogers reassigned deputies and detention officers to help answer phones and process paperwork to allow gun permit employees to focus on concealed carry handgun and pistol purchase permits. The sheriffs office also started cross-training other employees to handle the processing, including background checks.

Board Vice Chairwoman Carlvena Foster of High Point said the high volume the sheriffs office is processing is worrisome.

I am understandably concerned about the dramatic increase in the number of pistol permits and concealed carry handgun permits the sheriffs office has been handling given the current state of violence not just in Guilford County but across the United States, Foster said. It is certainly alarming to see the high volumes of requests in our county that were reported by the sheriff as it says to me that people are more fearful of gun violence and feel the need to be able to protect themselves and their families.

Board member James Upchurch agreed the issue is national in scope.
IFB said in August that while the law will help protect existing, longstanding VA contracts held by AbilityOne nonprofit agencies ... it does not enable IFB Solutions to regain the VA contracts lost last fall or all of the optical lab jobs supporting those contracts.

Among the changes was to exclude contracts that had been terminated by the VA, as is the case for IFB.

Agreeing to the amendment was important to enabling swift approvals, thereby saving as many current VA contracts held by our fellow AbilityOne agencies as possible, IFB said.

IFB said that there is a possibility that the work could come back to the AbilityOne program should the VA not be able to qualify that there are two or more veteran-owned small businesses capable of performing the work.

IFB said it will continue to pursue new contracts, especially commercial opportunities outside of the federal marketplace.

Since the ending of the VA optical lab contracts, IFB has shifted toward other revenue sources from new vendors, mining more the ones we have now and creating new opportunities, like the retail store, Horton said.

In March 2020, IFB opened its Twenty200 Eyewear optical store at 631 Coliseum Drive NW in Winston-Salem.

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Concerns have been raised by bioethicist Nancy Jecker and others that such payments are coercive. I agree. That is the whole point. Coercion is not inherently unethical. For example, if I park in front of a fire hydrant, the city will tow my car; if I do not show up for work, my employer will stop sending me a paycheck. Coercion becomes problematic only when it infringes upon some vital liberty or imposes unfair risks on some groups more than others. Paying people to act in ways that will save their lives, and protect their neighbors, does neither. Of course, those with less money may prove more motivated to accept cash to get vaccinated, but thats a desirable result if it saves the lives of more indigent people.

Legally, the government can compel people to get vaccinated. This principle was established by the U.S. Supreme Court in 1905 and has been upheld consistently ever since. Doing so would also be ethically justifiable to protect the small number of individuals for whom vaccination proves ineffective. More important, sizable unvaccinated populations increase the risks of new coronavirus variants that could render vaccines ineffective  thus threatening the lives and livelihoods of us all.
Although President Joe Biden barely mentioned foreign policy in his address to Congress on Wednesday, it was really a foreign policy speech.

In laying out a multitrillion-dollar plan to invest in infrastructure, education, basic research and the workforce, there was an underlying theme that may have eluded many listeners.

Were in competition with China and other countries to win the 21st century, Biden said. We have to prove democracy still works, that our government still works and can deliver for the people.

Indeed, Americas paramount foreign policy challenge in this century will be to demonstrate that our damaged democracy is capable of competing with an authoritarian China  a self-confident China that believes it is destined to set the global rules in coming decades.

And the key to that competition, rather than revolving around which country has the strongest military, will depend on whether America can rejuvenate itself at home.

Many Americans, secure in their belief that this country is the greatest, have failed to grasp how far we have fallen from global leadership in critical areas, where we should still have the lead. However, the rest of the world clearly sees this, including Chinese leaders.
Adrian Fernandez Baumann contributed to reporting for this story.

*Redwood Mary is an occasional contributor to The Mendocino Voice

This article was originally published by The Mendocino Voice.
A fire broke out Monday morning at the historic Lissner Mansion in Helena.

The call came in to the Helena Fire Department at 10:43 a.m., with dispatchers saying neighbors had reported seeing smoke come from the roof.

Helena fire Chief Ken Wood said the fire started in an upstairs bedroom, burned through the attic and into the roof. There was no one in the house when firefighters arrived and all occupants have been accounted for.

The cause of the blaze had yet to be determined.

Helena firefighters were assisted by the East Valley, Montana City, Veterans Affairs and West Valley fire departments, Wood said. St. Peter's Health Ambulance and the Helena Police Department also assisted.

Wood said the nine firefighters on shift responded to the blaze and 11 off-duty firefighters were called in. He said seven of those remained at the station and four came to the Lissner Mansion with a ladder truck.

Airbnb.com listed the mansion, 315 State St., as a 17-room Queen Anne Victorian, built in 1889. It is one of Helena's original mansions, with high ceilings and unique woodwork.
Hedalen wanted to return to superintendent work after working for OPI and took a position with the Arrowhead School District. She described it as an opportunity to "get back to the field and work with educators, families, students and community support networks."

As Townsend's superintendent, she hopes to do more work she is passionate about in her local community.

"I want to bring my excitement for teaching and learning, my knowledge of school funding and grant writing, and build on the positive school climate and family and community engagement in the Bulldog community," she said. "My husband and I have lived in Broadwater County for 10 years, and I and looking forward to being part of the incredible team at the school and being involved in the community."

Hedalen said school was challenging for her. She loved the social aspects and extracurricular activities, but had to work hard on her academics as a child.

"I shocked everyone and myself when I switched my major to education," she said. "In college, I realized that I could make a difference and teach things in different ways to reach students who struggled as I did in school."

It was during that time that Hedalen also learned she had a love for learning and a passion for reading that she wanted to share with students.
He said they were able to help him.

The Willis Cruse House, a transitional shelter operated by the Montana Veterans Foundation, has moved from its location on Leslie Avenue in Helena to a two-home facility outside of East Helena at 2320 Spokane Creek Road. The new location opened in December and took its first person in March, and it can accommodate 16 homeless veterans, its website says. A case manager lives onsite.

The website notes that the inception of Willis Cruse House was in 1998 and the first house opened in 2003. Since then, it has helped more than 900 veterans move on with their lives.

The house is named after Willis Cruse, a Vietnam-era veteran who lived in the mountains outside of Helena.

The house provides services such as showers, personal hygiene items, clothing, a laundry facility, hot meals, a phone, a computer and internet access and referral services.

There are two Willis Cruse Houses on the block. The governor toured the house farthest from the road, which Bain told him at one time had served as an assisted-living facility. There is a wood shop onsite. Other activities include leather work, art, camping and fishing.

They hope to later offer equine therapy, one person said.
South Africa: Oversight visit to address Basic Education challenges

The Portfolio Committee on Basic Education will this week embark on an oversight visit to the Department of Basic Education (DBE) head office in Pretoria, to discuss various issues affecting the sector.

Committee Chairperson Bongiwe Mbinqo-Gigaba said the aim of the oversight is to find lasting solutions to challenges within the sector, as well as ensure accountability from the department.

Among the issues to be discussed during the oversight visit to start on Tuesday include the perennial infrastructure challenges facing the sector, unacceptable increase in incidents of bullying in the basic education sector, school governing body (SGB) elections, as well as an update on the status of the Basic Education Laws Amendment Bill.

Mbinqo-Gigaba said the committee has since its inception, and following various of its oversight visits to provinces, highlighted the need for concerted and collaborative efforts to find workable solutions to the challenge of inadequate infrastructure within the sector.

In line with this, we decided to hold a school infrastructure roundtable, which will include DBE, provincial departments of education, and chairpersons of education committees in provincial legislatures. We have to work together to find practical solutions to this challenge, Mbinqo-Gigaba said in a statement.

Concerns over school bullying incidents

The committee has raised its concerns about the worrying increase in incidents of bullying within the sector that has led to the death of a learner at Mbilwi High School.

Mbinqo-Gigaba said the committee will engage with the department on the implementation of the sectors anti-bullying policy.

Schools are meant to be safe environments conducive for learning and teaching. What we have witnessed in the recent past is worrying and requires urgent action from all stakeholders within the sector, Mbonqo-Gigaba reiterated.

Mbonqo-Gigaba said the sector is also in the process of completing school governing body elections.

She emphasised that good governance and effective SGBs remain the heart of the sector, and thus will receive an update on the status and outcomes of the elections.

Umalusi, SACEs budget review

Meanwhile, as part of the week-long programme, the committee will also engage with Umalusi and the South African Council for Educators on their 2021-22 budget review.

The budget review process provides for committees to prepare budgetary reports, which provide an assessment of the entitys service delivery performance given available resources, provide an assessment of the effectiveness and efficiency of the departments use and forward allocation of available resources, and may also include recommendations on the forward use of resources, Mbonqo-Gigaba said.  SAnews.gov.za

This story has been published on: 2021-05-03. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
But once they found a location  the former pharmacy  they began imagining the future of their business, one that embraces Havre de Graces rich history, which dates back to before the American Revolution. We really wanted to be in downtown Havre de Grace, said Wilson. It took a while to find the facility. They named the brewery for an artificial island in the Chesapeake Bay. Wilson calls the setting the perfect locale for their business, saying the community has been nothing but supportive of their project.
Sen. Doug Kary, a Billings Republican who carried the bill in the Senate, argued that the measure simply restores the Legislatures authority over lawmaking  particularly election laws.

We are required by federal law and by the state Constitution to be in charge of the elections  our body, the legislative body, not the executive body, Kary said during the bills April 15 debate on the Senate floor. If we do not vote for this, we are not fulfilling our obligations and the oath we took to uphold that constitution.

Democrats opposed the bill. Missoula Sen. Bryce Bennett called it short-sighted and said that while there were legitimate concerns about executive overreach, the measure doesnt account for the need to respond quickly to sudden emergencies like wildfires, train wrecks or chemical spills that could block access for voters based on their location.

These things happen. There are emergencies that requires us to make sure no one is left out of their democracy, Bennett said.  The problem is that this says no changes for any emergency, and even when it says the Legislature can be consulted in three days, what happens if the election is in two days? Or one day? Is the Legislature going to be able to chime in soon enough?
The IR described Turning Point as promoting "conservative" causes. Please stop describing religious extremist gatherings as conservative. They are extremist groups. The energy and ideologies that have almost completely taken over the Montana Republican Party do not meet the definition of conservatism.

Conservatism is a philosophy that emphasizes respect for traditional institutions. Conservatives oppose attempts to achieve social change through legislation. A conservative seeks to preserve or restore, not destroy. The Montana Republican Party has attacked many personal freedoms and passed unconstitutional bills. Their bills have targeted the rights of LGBTQ folx, women, the poor, workers, and the entire public (through their attacks on public health officers).

The term "extremist" is a more appropriate choice. An extremist is a person who advocates or resorts to measures beyond the norm, especially in politics. An extremist holds extreme opinions, such as climate change denial, COVID19 denial, QAnon conspiracy theories. An extremist denies the result of a safe and fair election. Extremists hire unqualified contractors to conduct unconstitutional election recounts and refuse to allow observers.
MATTOON  Wearing police caps, children at Maranatha Baptist Church headed to the front of the sanctuary and led the congregation in prayer in support of law enforcement officers Sunday morning.

Later in the service, the Rev. Dan Haifley told worshippers that the community's police officers are there to keep the peace and to protect them and their children. For example, he said, a motorist should not get mad for being ticketed for talking on a cellphone while driving and should instead consider that the officer was looking out for the safety of children along the roadways.

"When you see them (officers) out and about, say 'thank you for your service,'" Haifley said.

The children's prayer and the pastor's message were part of Maranatha Baptist Church's Law Enforcement Appreciation Day event during its regular Sunday morning service. Haifley said police officers nationwide have been experiencing a proverbial "storm" of challenges and hardships, so the church wanted to show its support for them.

Speakers at the event included Brad Oyer, director of the East Central Illinois Mobile Law Enforcement Training Team; and state Sen. Darren Bailey, R-Louisville, who represents the 55th district and has announced his candidacy for governor.

In the legislature, Bailey said he is opposed to proposed legislation that would "dismantle law enforcement." He said recent proposals have included removing school resource officers from campuses and removing qualified immunity for officers. He said his office also is preparing to send out letters of support to law enforcement agencies and officers.

"Let them know that you appreciate them," Bailey said. "Keep those men and women in your prayers and your circle of encouragement."

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Oyer, who retired from the Charleston Police Department in 2017, said Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin has gotten a lot of attention because of his role in the death of George Floyd in 2020.

However, Oyer said many people have not heard of Officer Christopher Amoroso losing his life while going back into the World Trade Center on Sept. 11, 2001, to try to lead more people to safety, or of Officer Jeremy Thomas stopping to help a homeless man shave along the streets of Detroit in 2019.

Locally, Oyer said he knows a police officer who encountered a single mother with children who had no bed and were sleeping on the floor. He said this officer obtained a mattress for the family and then he and his wife delivered it to them. He said stories such as these about the dedication and sacrifice of police officers do not always get much attention.

Oyer said police officers work in a dangerous profession, one in which 119 have died so far in 2021. He said those fatalities were due to COVID-19, assaults of various kinds, traffic crashes, and suicides. He said officers face high rates of alcoholism, depression, post-traumatic stress syndrome, divorce and suicide, noting that Chicago Police Deputy Chief Dion Boyd killed himself in 2020.

Still, Oyer said police officers do not hesitate to put themselves in danger to help others, including in Coles County. He said they are there for community members when they have experienced burglaries, been in crashes, or are dealing with other emergencies.

"They are your officers. They live in your communities. Their children go to your schools," Oyer said, as he asked community members to look out for police officers and support them. "They will be there to look out for you when you need them most."

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CHICAGO  Two years into a federal corruption investigation that has led to charges against more than half a dozen current and former Democratic state lawmakers and precipitated the downfall of longtime House Speaker Michael Madigan, legislators are scrambling to strengthen Illinois government ethics laws.

Proposals include tightening rules for lobbyists, requiring additional financial disclosures from elected officials, giving more independence to the legislative inspector general and prohibiting lawmakers from becoming lobbyists immediately upon leaving office.

The bipartisan push to pass an ethics overhaul before the legislatures scheduled May 31 adjournment fits a pattern that has played out over and over again in Springfield: a scandal arises and lawmakers promise to address the problems that are exposed, then in most cases stop short of the most robust recommendations for rooting out wrongdoing.

It remains to be seen if the full package will be strong enough for correcting the very vibrant culture of corruption that exists in the state of Illinois, said state Rep. Ryan Spain of Peoria, the ranking Republican on a newly formed House ethics committee.

Gov. J.B. Pritzker has attributed the November defeat of his signature graduated-rate income tax proposal to opponents ability to tap into voters overarching distrust in state government. Since the federal investigation came to light, he has made an ethics overhaul one of his top legislative priorities.

But little has been done, and the issue was shelved last year when Madigan and Senate President Don Harmon canceled most of the General Assemblys spring session during the initial surge of the coronavirus pandemic.

With lawmakers back to work this spring, Pritzker again called for them to pass real, lasting ethics reform.

Restoring the publics trust is of paramount importance, the governor said in his February budget and State of the State address. There is too much that needs to be done. If not for the pandemic, this would have happened last year. With a real legislative session and remote or in-person hearings, we need to get this done.

As the ongoing federal probe was becoming public in fall 2019, lawmakers approved a measure requiring more disclosures from lobbyists and creating a task force to recommend additional ways to strengthen ethics laws.

Pritzker quickly signed it into law, and the panel began its work in late 2019, only to call off its meetings once the pandemic began. A final report was never issued.

More than a year later, an ethics bill surfaced in the House around midnight on the final day of the January lame-duck session, hours before a new set of lawmakers was sworn in. The bill never made it out of committee.

While some lawmakers have noted that the onetime colleagues whove been ensnared in the federal probe have been charged with breaking laws that are already on the books, the wide-ranging investigation has brought attention to a number of issues that make Illinois rife for potential corruption.

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Former Rep. Luis Arroyo, a Chicago Democrat, was arrested in November 2019 and charged with bribing a state senator to support sweepstakes gambling legislation that would have benefited a client Arroyo was lobbying for at City Hall. The alleged bribe is clearly illegal, but Illinois law doesnt prohibit elected officials from working as lobbyists in other levels of government.

Lobbyists were also in the middle of the Commonwealth Edison scandal, in which the utility admitted to a yearslong bribery scheme to win Madigans favor. In its deferred prosecution agreement with the U.S. attorneys office, ComEd admitted to using lobbyists and unregistered consultants to funnel off-the-books payments to Madigan allies who performed little or no actual work as part of the bribery scheme.

The investigation cast a spotlight on ComEds long-standing practice of hiring former lawmakers and Madigan staffers as lobbyists, who are required to register with the state, and as consultants, who are not.

An ethics package under consideration in the Senate, sponsored by Democratic Sen. Ann Gillespie of Arlington Heights, would create a statewide lobbyist registration database covering state, county, township and municipal governments. It would also create a uniform definition of who is a lobbyist that would include consultants who communicate with officials on behalf of a lobbyist or lobbying client to try to influence public action.

Theres a lot of confusion out there because the city (of Chicago) has one definition and a lot of locals and the counties dont even have one, then the state has another, Gillespie said. We really just need to be looking at this uniformly so that weve got the most sunlight on the activities that are happening.

Gillespies plan also would prohibit lawmakers from lobbying local governments on behalf of people or entities who also lobby the state.

Under those rules, Arroyo would not have been able to work as a registered City Hall lobbyist for sweepstakes gaming company V.S.S. Inc. because the company also was registered to lobby the state.

But the proposal would stop short of an outright ban on elected officials working as paid lobbyists at any level of government, something good-government groups  and Pritzker  called for in the wake of Arroyos arrest as a way to prevent lawmakers from exerting undue influence.

Nobody should hold the title of both legislator and lobbyist at the same time, Pritzker said in his February speech.

Supporters say the proposal allows room for lawmakers who are also lawyers or accountants, for example, to do work for local governments within their professional field without running afoul of lobbyist registration requirements.

Another area where the plan falls short, critics say, is its prohibition on former legislators becoming registered lobbyists upon leaving the General Assembly. The bill would ban lawmakers from becoming lobbyists for only six months after leaving office, or for the remainder of their current term if they leave within that tenure.

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Republican Sen. John Curran of Downers Grove, who supports some of the bills provisions, raised concerns that it would allow lawmakers to resign just before the term expires and become lobbyists within days.

It shouldnt be something that would have such a blatant loophole, Curran said.

Gillespie has promised to fix that issue in an amendment, but Republicans and reform advocates argue that the six-month waiting period isnt long enough.

Alisa Kaplan, executive director of Reform for Illinois, said the measure as written would leave Illinois at the bottom of the barrel when it comes to preventing lawmakers from shifting quickly into more lucrative lobbying jobs. By her count, 35 states have one- or two-year revolving door prohibitions for legislators.

Thats just a half-measure, she said of the Senate proposal. The people of Illinois deserve better than that. I think that if other states do this, we should be able to as well. This is not some kind of radical measure. This is something that would put us in the company of the vast majority of other states.

The proposal also falls short in granting full independence to the legislative inspector general, the person appointed by lawmakers to investigate allegations of wrongdoing by members of the General Assembly and their staff, Kaplan said.

Its a view she shares with Carol Pope, a retired central Illinois judge who was unanimously chosen as the inspector general in 2019.

Pope and her predecessors have repeatedly called for more independence for the office, which has to get permission from the Legislative Ethics Commission, an eight-member panel appointed by the top Democrats and Republicans in the House and Senate, to open investigations, issue subpoenas and publish reports on investigations that find wrongdoing by lawmakers.

Gillespie said her intention is to allow Pope to open investigations on her own but still require the inspector general to get permission from the ethics commission before releasing reports on lawmakers to the public.

Because the commission is made up of an equal number representatives from both parties, partisan deadlocks can result in reports on lawmakers misdeeds being kept from the public. Pope and her predecessors say that has happened several times since the office was created as part of a 2003 ethics overhaul during the scandal-plagued tenure of former Gov. Rod Blagojevich.

We need some balance if were going to have a truly independent oversight mechanism, Kaplan said. It just doesnt make sense to have legislators policing legislators. Thats not how independent oversight works.

But Gillespie said the ethics commission should be given an opportunity to operate under existing rules under new House Speaker Emanuel Chris Welch and Harmon, who became Senate president last year. She noted that Harmon for the first time appointed someone who is not a sitting legislator to the panel: Pat McGuire, who left the Senate when his term expired in January.

Its a new day. ... I think we need to give it a chance to work, she said.

While the bill wouldnt give the legislative inspector general the full level of autonomy those whove held the office say is necessary, it would make the position a full-time job with posted office hours  which Pope said would be a waste of taxpayer money. She now works on an as-needed basis.

Even if you had office hours, there would be a person sitting in the office with nothing to do, Pope said at a recent Senate hearing The demand for hours is just simply not there, which is a good thing in my opinion.

Lawmakers argue that having a full-time inspector general would an important signal to the public.

While it may not be a good perception to have an office of people that arent working full time, I also dont think its a good perception, visual, to have an office thats closed, that the lights are out, that nobody knows when its open either, Gillespie said at the hearing. I think its important for our residents of Illinois to start to establish trust in their legislature if they know that this is something were taking this seriously.

With just a month remaining in the spring legislative session and an agenda that also includes negotiations over a major energy policy overhaul and a pandemic-era state budget, it remains to be seen whether lawmakers will push through an ethics package.

Rep. Kelly Burke, an Evergreen Park Democrat who chairs the House ethics committee and sits on the Legislative Ethics Commission, declined to comment on specific proposals in her chamber but said shes waiting for the Senate to send over its proposal.

Burke said she expects lawmakers to approve either one package or small number of bills dealing with lobbying, statements of economic interest and the role of the legislative inspector general, among other issues.

Weve been putting a lot of work into our hearings and gathering lots of different opinions, and were really trying to work to provide some better clarity and stronger ethics laws, Burke said.

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DAMASCUS, Va.  A fathers gift to his son is keeping the doors open at one of Damascus favorite eateries.

When Damascus resident Nelson Diggs learned that Mojos Trailside Cafe & Coffee House was up for sale a few months ago, he sent a text to his son, Bobby Diggs, asking him if hed like to operate his own restaurant.

Are you kidding? Of course, I would, replied Bobby, who at the time was working as a machine operator for a factory in Indiana.

Im excited to get back into the kitchen, doing what I really love. I like to make food that makes people happy, said Bobby, who has nearly 10 years of restaurant experience.

The father and son purchased the business in March after the former owner, David Paragon Calvert, decided to move back to a Buddhist community in Thailand.

My mother blessed me with a gift of money toward my mortgage years ago, said the father. Now that Im retired from the Navy, I wanted to bless my son, as well.

Bobby, 32, said he feels grateful to his father for making his dream job come true.
The Rev. Robert Bob Silber, executive director of Eastern Catawba Cooperative Christian Ministry, was honored on April 25 during a celebration at Conover City Park. It was a bittersweet day, as friends, volunteers, staff, and the board of directors came together to honor Silber and his service as he prepares to retire.

ECCCMs Board of Directors President David Hartsoe opened the gathering, then introduced Mitch Long, also a board member, to deliver the invocation. Hartsoe then spoke to those present about the significant impact Silber has had on the organization. He expressed deep appreciation on behalf of the many thousands of people whose lives have been impacted during Silbers service.

Hartsoe also introduced the other speakers for the event. Mayor Pro Tem of Newton, John Stiver spoke of the community impact Silber has had on Newton, and presented him with a proclamation recognizing him for his achievements and contributions to the community. Mayor Lee Moritz of Conover thanked Silber for his service through ECCCM on behalf of Conover residents. On a more personal note, Moritz reminisced about being present with Silber in a Bible study when Silber first mentioned feeling that he was being called into ministry. Mayor Pro Tem of Conover, Kyle Hayman thanked God, giving Him credit for leading the mission of ECCCMs ministry with Silber as its executive director.
On his most unusual project:

I have a friend that the father passed while riding a motorcycle, and the motorcycle basically was into pieces.

They wanted me to take those pieces and make a bench in memory of him. So use all the materials off of that to incorporate to a bench.

The biggest challenge for me in that situation was I needed to do not just to make the bench  a functional bench but to also to be able to tap into their feeling and at least create something to evoke their feeling with what I was going to create.

On his favorite project:

My favorite thing is a tiny house.

I was always curious what it took to actually build a home from the ground to the roof, a complete one.

And when the trend for the tiny house movement came about, I had the opportunity to help a family friend build one.

That was probably the best project Ive ever done because not only did I build the exterior structure and the finishes on the interior but also the furniture that went in it.
During the past year, they worked to transform an empty storefront at what many local people still call the Front Porch, the row of shop buildings along U.S. 221 Business. They did all the renovation work for the interior and put in a bar and shelves for their products. They installed a still made in Canada and went to work making hand-crafted moonshine. So far, they have produced three different flavors: apple and grape (80 proof) and straight regular moonshine called Il-Lic-It, which is 90 proof.

They also plan to make brandy and their special signature heirloom blend.

Everything we make is from all natural ingredients, said Shuford, adding the corn used in the mash comes from McDowell County.

We try to do everything with local products, he said.

They intend to add four other flavors of moonshine: apple pie, peach, chocolate and coffee. Those will be 60 proof.

Customers will be able to come in and get a free tasting and then select the products which are lined up on the shelves.

We are a small batch craft distillery, and every bottle is numbered, said Shuford.

The process of making liquor takes a lot of time, work and patience.
Hyderabad, May 03 (ANI): The Hashamabad based woman has urged the Central government for locating her husband named Mohammad Naveed Ahmed who went to Qatar seven years ago but continue missing. She said her husband was in regular touch with her till 2016, but after that there was no contact. She is trying to contact him but phone is switched off.
Haleema while speaking to ANI in Hyderabad

Hyderabad (Telangana) [India], May 3 (ANI): A Hyderabad-based woman has sought help from the state government as well as the central government in locating her husband in Qatar, who has not contacted her for last five years.

Haleema, who is a resident of Hashimabad of Bandlaguda in Hyderabad, got married to Mohammad Naveed Ahmed in January 2008. In 2014, in search of work, Naveed left for Qatar and had been in regular touch with Haleema till 2016. However, since 2016, as told by Haleema, her husband has not been in touch with her and their two children.

Speaking to ANI, Haleema informed her husband left for Qatar in search of a job as a driver in 2014 and till 2016 he had been in contact with her on regular basis and used to send her money for the expenses.

It has become extremely difficult for her to look after the children as Naveed is the sole breadwinner in her family.

She has now appealed to the Telangana government as well as the central government to help her in locating her husband.

To support Haleema and her two children, following the appeal of Amjed Ullah Khan, the spokesperson of Majlis Bachao Tehreek (MBT), many people have come forward to help her with her expenses.

She has received Rs 56,000 in her bank account till date while other people have been helping her with groceries and other stuff. (ANI)
A gunman killed two people at a Wisconsin casino restaurant and seriously wounded a third before he was killed by police late Saturday, in what authorities said appeared to be a targeted attack.
What makes Amtrak investment especially attractive now is that it can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. If the U.S. is to achieve a 50% reduction in emissions, as the Biden administration has promised, the transportation sector is going to have to provide a big chunk as it produces more than one-quarter of all U.S. emissions. Taking gas guzzlers off the road is a start, but where do the passengers go? Fuel efficient vehicles and the various forms of public transit can help, but you cant get more energy efficient (or lower carbon emitting) than trains. Studies have shown that passenger trains have the lowest carbon footprint of all modes of travel with air transportation causing the biggest. Even electric vehicles cant compete with train travel, although they do come the closest (aside from people who walk onto ferries). Oh, and did we mention trains are also far safer than cars and trucks?
100 years ago,

May 3, 1921

MATTOON  Two more railroad cars of livestock went out of Mattoon to the St. Louis market yesterday. A mixed load was sent out by the Mattoon Shipping Association, making the ninth since its organization. The other, a load of hogs, was sent by Frank Tewel, a farmer near the city. The association received the top price of the day for its hogs, $8.45... TUSCOLA  The Egyptian Trail, from Tuscola to the Arcola Township line has been in bad condition since the spring rains, there being some bad mud holes near the Lear farm. These holes are so deep that the automobiles sink in the ruts until the axles drag the surface. It is expected that this will be one of the first roads in the township repaired, and oiled after the weather settles. The Arcola section of the trail is in good condition... MATTOON  Mrs. Frances Moran and daughter, Miss Cecilia, returned home Sunday from Webster Groves, Mo., where on April 30 they attended the ceremony of the reception and profession of a number of young women in the St. Joseph's Convent of Mercy. Mrs. Moran's daughter, Miss Winnifred, was one of the number who professed her vows and was received into the order. Her name will be Sister Mary Patricia, which she took at the time of her reception into the order.

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50 years ago, 1971

CHARLESTON  The total book value of buildings and other property at Eastern Illinois University now stands at $59.5 million. The 15-year administration of EIU President Quincy Doudna, which ends with his retirement this fall, will have witnessed the expenditure of $49.5 million on building construction. The actual cost of construction at EIU from its founding in 1895 to 1956, when Doudna's term began, was about $5 million. Those buildings have doubled in value. The present student enrollment of 8,600 is more than four times as great as the 1956 enrollment of 2,000 when Doudna's term began... MATTOON  Staff Sgt. Thomas Allen Pollard, a National Guardsman in the Mattoon unit, received his second lieutenant bars from Maj. Gen. Harold Patton, National Guard adjutant general for the State of Illinois on Saturday. The direct commission was given during ceremonies at field training in Shelbyville. Pollard is a Vietnam veteran... MATTOON  Merwon Kelsey of Mattoon reigned as singles champion of the Elks Club state bowling tournament in Peoria Sunday. Kelsey bowled games of 219, 215 and 276 for a 710 scratch series. His handicap total was 756. There were 2,346 singles entries in the tournament.

25 years ago, 1996

STEWARDSON  Garden tractor pulling is a less expensive hobby than pulling full-size tractors. But that doesn't mean there's any less excitement in the competition. Tim Baumgarten of Stewardson pulled big tractors until about five years ago. He said he still has fun with garden tractors and doesn't have the same expense as with regular tractors. Baumgarten recently won the Winter Nationals Pulling Championships in Des Moines, Iowa. He pulled in the stock-altered class of garden tractors, competing against 30 others. He credited his win to determination and the use of cured tires... CHARLESTON  Dee Braden, executive director of the Coles County Council on Aging, recently was honored by the agency's board of directors for her tenure of 20 years with the council. She began work with the aging council in March 1976 as an outreach worker with the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program. Two years later, she was named to the newly created position as executive director. One of the programs started under her leadership was a countywide transportation system.

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Dear EarthTalk: Besides generating seasonal allergens, do any plants actually reduce air quality or cause air pollution?  Mike T., San Juan, Puerto Rico

While many of us thought Ronald Reagan sounded crazy back in 1981 when he told America that trees cause more pollution than automobiles do, the then-president may have been on to something.

Researchers from the University of California at Berkeley recently unveiled the results of a study in which they determined that certain trees and plants common in Southern California off-gas natural yet nevertheless harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs)  to attract pollinators, protect against environmental stressors and repel herbivores  especially during the hottest months of the year. This so-called particulate matter pollution is not only dangerous in and of itself to breathe in as the tiny molecules can get lodged in the lungs, but it also leads to the formation of ground-level ozone and smog.

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While Reagans comment may have been an utter falsehood back then, who knew it would take the electrification of the transport sector to make it actually ring true today? The only way researchers could have any way of knowing that these plants are a significant contributor to air pollution would be by the elimination of the vast majority of fossil-fuel-derived background noise that we are no longer subject to as we breathe in the air around the streets of California  where the nations strictest automotive fuel efficiency standards have driven many to Teslas, Bolts, Volts, Leafs, Polestars, e-Trons, Priuses and other green rides  and elsewhere.

The researchers found that over the past two decades, concentrations of these VOCs fell by 50% between 1999 and 2012, and then to undetectable levels during the cooler months thereafter. But when the mercury rose, even without additional automotive emissions, so did concentrations of airborne VOCs. Four out of five excessive heat days (with air temps topping 100) led to unsafe VOC levels outside.

With transportation emissions off the hook as the culprit, researchers looked to the plant community for answers. One of the worst offenders is the iconic and ubiquitous fan palm, but sycamores, poplars, willows and many oaks and pines also off-gas their fair share of VOCs when the weather heats up  which will be happening more frequently as we warm the atmosphere with greenhouse gases. Backyard planners and landscape designers concerned about air quality and the environment might want to steer clear of these species when choosing plants.

I am not suggesting that we get rid of plants, but I want people who are thinking about large-scale planting to pick the right trees, says Ronald Cohen, the Berkeley atmospheric chemist who led the research effort. They should pick low-emitting trees instead of high-emitting trees. If you have the luxury of choosing which trees to plant and/or replace, and you care about your communitys air quality, some good choices include alders, magnolias, manzanitas, birches, hazelnuts, gingkos, apples and elms.

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Q: Will there be a 7 over Seventy event this year? How do I nominate someone?

Answer: Each year Senior Services collaborates with the Winston-Salem Journal to plan and host the 7 over Seventy Awards. Now in its sixth year, this event acknowledges and honors the contributions of seven individuals who are age 70 or above who have made a great impact on the Forsyth County community.

Nominations for this honor are now open. Forsyth County residents are invited and encouraged to submit the names of individuals who have greatly contributed to making Forsyth County one of the best places to live through their community service, civic and social engagement, and/or professional careers. If you know someone who has contributed in these areas please visit journalnow.com/exclusive/7overseventy/ to place them into consideration for the sixth annual 7 over Seventy Awards.

The seven honorees will be chosen by a selection committee made up of a diverse group of people including past honorees, community members, and representatives from various volunteer, civic and corporate organizations. Award selections are based on a wide array of criteria including community involvement and contribution to the betterment of their fellow residents in Forsyth County.
Four deputies and a nurse are charged in his death.

Documents kept secret

The sheriffs office, the Forsyth County District Attorneys office and the State Bureau of Investigation kept Nevilles death a secret from the public.

It came to light after The News & Observer, acting on a tip, filed a petition with the courts for the release of the body-camera footage.

Forsyth County Sheriff Bobby Kimbrough Jr. did not publicly acknowledge Nevilles death for seven months, until June 26, prompted by questions from the Winston-Salem Journal. He said later that Nevilles family had asked that no information be released about their fathers death.

The newspapers, together with a coalition of other media outlets, have been seeking more information.

The current fight focuses on N.C. Department of Health and Human Services documents that helped the N.C. Office of the Chief Medical Examiner determine how Neville died. They include the entirety of an internal police investigation and the SBI report into his death.

Under North Carolina law, SBI reports are not public record. However, once that report was handed over to DHHS it became public.
Mental health option

The money would pay for a behavioral health unit in the jail that would have 20 beds. It would have programming and activities for the people getting treatment. Treatments would be accompanied by a discharge plan.

This is hands-on, day-to-day programming activities in a contained unit, Randy Hunsucker told county commissioners in a recent briefing on the proposal. (Inmates) will be in a unit getting care all day long.

Hunsucker is business manager of the Forsyth County Sheriffs Office and a member of the team that evaluated the six companies vying to win the health care contract at the jail.

No win, group says

The Triad Abolition Project, a group that advocates defunding the police and abolishing jails, issued a statement expressing relief that Wellpath will no longer be employed by the county, but said that replacing them with a different company profiting off the prison industrial complex ... is not a win.

Unfortunately, there is no way for us to believe or ensure that NaphCare will not demonstrate the same pattern of medical negligence in pursuit of profit as Wellpath has done to our community for over a decade, the group said.
Voter litmus test

If I was poor and indigent with no help, no transportation, no other resource, I would call the local Democratic Party or the local Republican Party and ask for their assistance in getting whatever ID is needed. Of course, if they wouldnt help me, I would tell them three things are going to happen. First, I will never vote for your party again. Second, Im going to tell every soul I know that you are not interested in the downtrodden masses, that you are all talk and no action. Third (and worst of all), Im calling columnist Scott Sexton at the Journal so he can reveal on the front page why your party is so callous and interview the Scrooge who denied me just as Peter denied Christ.
The tour opening in Lincoln will eventually cover 3,100 miles, stopping in eight cities and ending at New Yorks Rockefeller Center. It is a throwback of sorts for the American Ballet Theatre.

We used to crisscross the country in buses and perform all across the 50 states," Barnett said via Zoom. "We havent done that in decades, really since the 40s and 50s."

Back then, the group's bus was known as the "Pioneer," Barnett noted.

"To be starting this tour in Pioneers Park in Lincoln is just clearly, clearly meant to be.

The July 1 performance will be made up of excerpts from ballet classics, along with new works, Barnett said.

The performances will be terrific introductions for the uninitiated, she said. "If youve never seen ballet before this is the perfect performance to embrace and experience the art form. I guarantee we will shatter your assumptions about ballet.

Even though the performance is set for Pioneers Park, it wont take place in Pinewood Bowl.
Tour of Homes

The Near South Neighborhood Association's biennial Tour of Homes is 1-5 p.m. on May 9. Tickets, available at nearsouth.org, are $10 per person in advance, $15 at the door and $5 for children, 5-12.

Participants should visit the sites in random order:

* The Clark-Leonard House, 1937 F St.

* The Reese House, 1990 C St.

* The Young Jr. House, 1954 A St.

* The Barstow House, 1445 S. 20th St.

* The deVries House, 1844 Washington St.

* The Peterson House, 1705 S. 25th St.

* The Yost House, 1900 S. 25th St.

A VIP tour will be 4-6 p.m. May 8 and tickets, which must be bought in advance, cost $50 each.
They married in 1990. He brought five kids to their new family, she brought two.

He went to everything they were in, any kind of sport, everything, Pat Cidlik said. And when his kids were all grown, it was all about his grandkids. He never missed anything if he could help it.

He was thrilled to attend a granddaughters volleyball game in Brainard last fall, even if he had to cheer for her through his mask.

He talked about how he was so happy his grandchildren were able to attend school full time and participate in sports, said his daughter, Sandy Bongers.

After a back injury forced him out of his mail truck, Irv Cidlik managed the Disabled American Veterans Club in Havelock for 23 years, and stayed on as treasurer even after he retired.

He and Pat organized and hosted nearly 20 casino-bound bus trips a year, and hed grab the microphone once they were rolling.

Hed tell jokes all the way there and all the way back. He loved making people laugh. Everybody loved Irvy.
There is an inherent contradiction in the way employers treat drug addiction: While 71% of employers understand addiction as a disease requiring treatment, 65% believe drug use is a justifiable cause for firing. Yet few would condone the firing of employees with cancer or diabetes  even when their diseases affect their work. With addiction at epidemic proportions, employers cannot escape the diseases inevitable effects in the workplace. And the structure of the U.S. health care system, which makes employees dependent on employers for health care, should now address addiction as the chronic illness it is. If employers adjust the way they view and treat drug addiction  as a disease rather than as a moral failing  they could play a role in combating the opioid crisis on a humane level and diminishing the negative impacts of addiction in the workplace.
1. Yes. Its important to keep my child as safe as possible. We plan to take advantage.

2. Yes. With the school district dropping its mask mandate, its a necessary step.

3. No. Local COVID cases are dropping. There is no good reason to vaccinate my child.

4. No. There hasnt been enough data on vaccinated children. I think Ill hold off.

5. Unsure. I havent decided yet whether to take part in the vaccine clinics.

Vote

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A 40-foot-long shipping container in the parking lot of The Bay will soon be filled with a whole lot of green.

In partnership with Beyond School Bells, The Bay is launching The Greenery, a self-contained hydroponic farm housed in a repurposed shipping container. Members of Beyond School Bells and The Bay gathered with local leaders Saturday to officially launch the program.

Much like The Bays other youth-focused programs, The Greenery is designed to allow students access to engaging, hands-on activities  in this case growing food.

We are thrilled about the opportunity to be able to turn kids on to sustainable agriculture, said Andrew Norman, executive director and co-founder of The Bays parent organization Rabble Mill. A lot of the kids in our neighborhood have never seen anything like this; none of us have.

The Greenery setup is designed by the Boston-based company Freight Farms. Beyond School Bells was able to purchase the unit through a partnership with the Ben Hormel Harris Foundation, said state Sen. Anna Wishart, the director of partnerships for Beyond School Bells. Several local companies and individuals donated their time to help get it up and running.
Alderperson Tanja Birke asked about parking and garages. Beier said most of the units have double garages. Wangen said residents should be able to get two cars deep in the driveways.

Splinter said he felt sad looking at the renderings of the units. I know the engineering is competent, but there was never a word of design. I dont see houses  I see garages. I see a garage with a house tucked behind.

Splinter said he wondered about the social dynamic of the development. How it would feel as a neighborhood; will it bring people together. It can be done. How it feels should be at the forefront.

Alderperson Cyndy Hubbard said the development will lead to more density. Its sad, she said. Gregory is making good points.

Kristal Welter said the city needs a comprehensive plan. Im afraid well get more like this. Sandbeck said the council is constantly setting precedence.

Alderperson Ben Wilson said he agreed with the others comments, but would vote yes because there is a housing deficit. We need a vision for the future, and it should come quicker than later.
Henry also proposed using a portion of the funds to assist the Hilton Baltimore Inner Harbor hotel. The hotel was financed in 2006 with more than $300 million in city bonds that are repaid each year with revenue from the hotel, hotel taxes and property taxes. Due to the pandemic, the hotel suspended operations in late March 2020 and stayed closed into the new year, causing a shortfall in those revenues.
Anderson said he had previously asked Republican lawmakers to limit floor session hours to between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. as well as give appropriate notice for floor sessions and committee hearings, but Republicans had denied those requests, though they granted his request to phone into meetings.

Even with those additional changes that Republicans made, its still not possible for me to be safe and healthy as a quadriplegic and be  physically present for all of those bills, Anderson said.

Now, Anderson is making a new request for him to be able to fully participate digitally or by phone in floor sessions, which he hadnt requested before.

With COVID, we did it, we figured out a way for us to be able to do this, so I think it makes perfect sense, Anderson said. If we can provide it for COVID purposes we should be able to provide it for disabilities.
Wells Fargo has awarded a $3 million grant to the Lancaster-based Community First Fund, which will use the money to launch a new program, the Rebuilding Communities Loan Fund.

By using dollars from Wells Fargos Open for Business Fund, the new Community First Fund program initially will target the Community First Funds existing small-business clients that incurred losses during the pandemic, giving them access to low-cost capital to rebuild their businesses.

Lending efforts will be focused on businesses that add to the vibrancy of their communities such as restaurants, stores, child care centers, barbershops/salons, grocery stores and bodegas, according to the Community First Fund.

The initiative will target businesses owned by people of color, women and low-income people, as well as businesses that serve low-income communities.

Loan amounts will range from $5,000 to $250,000 and up, with the average expected to be about $75,000, the Community First Fund said. The maximum term will be 60 months.

The Community First Fund is a certified community development financial institution serving 16 counties in southcentral and southeastern Pennsylvania, including Lancaster, all three counties of Delaware and Camden County, New Jersey.
This story contains links that will take you to our archives site on newspapers.com. This content is free for LancasterOnline subscribers who are logged in. Click here for more information about how to subscribe.

The first observed Loyalty Day, originally called "Americanization Day," occurred on May 1, 1921, during the First Red Scare -- a period in the early 20th-century of U.S. history in which widespread fear of far-left extremism riveted the country.

During the Second Red Scare in the mid-1950s, President Dwight D. Eisenhower proclaimed May 1, 1955 the first observed Loyalty Day in the United States. In 1958, it was made an official recurring holiday by the U.S. Congress.

May 1 is also nationally recognized as International Workers' Day, also known as May Day, which Loyalty Day was initially supposed to replace. International Workers' Day began as an anniversary to the 1886 Haymarket Affair, a conflict in Chicago between police and demonstrating workers that took place in Haymarket Square.

More than 30,000 Chicago workers took to the streets to protest exploitive hours and unfair wages. During the third day of protests, Chicago police fired upon strikers outside a local plant, killing at least two. Once the protesters began their demonstration in Haymarket Square, an altercation between workers and police broke out, leaving dead and injured on both sides.

Analyzing why Loyalty Day rose in popularity over International Workers' Day, Jordan Grant of the National Museum of American History writes, "For many Americans at the time, the Haymarket incident and the contentious public trials that followed sullied May 1, forever tying the day to anarchists, socialists, and other radical groups that stood outside the mainstream of American society."

The exact purpose of the Loyalty Day holiday is as follows: "Loyalty Day is a special day for the reaffirmation of loyalty to the United States and for the recognition of the heritage of American freedom," according to Legal Information Institute at Cornell University Law School.

In an excerpt from LNP's reporting on Loyalty Day festivities in 2004, the holiday was described as a "response to the Communist day called May Day."

The public fear of communism, coupled with the narrative surrounding the purpose of International Workers' Day, gave way to Loyalty Day becoming to prominent national holiday on May 1.

As the national holiday grew in popularity, communities across the nation began holding celebrations to commemorate veterans of the U.S. armed forces, mostly through parades that marched through town squares.

Loyalty Day Parades make their way to Lancaster County

The first official Loyalty Day Parade in Lancaster County was held in Manheim on April 29, 1967. Following the parade, a speakers' program was held at Manheim Central's Memorial Field. The program featured a speech from one Manheim resident who was a naturalized citizen of the U.S. and a native of England.

State Sen. Clarence Manbeck and State Representative Marvin Miller also received speaking slots during the program.

To read our original reporting from the first Loyalty Day Parade, click here.

The turnout for the first Loyalty Day Parade in Lancaster County wasn't as great as some expected. Approximately 200 to 250 people attended the program at Memorial Field.

The small crowds didn't last, though.

The following year, more than 2,000 residents marched along the streets of Manheim, while several more thousand applauded and cheered as they marched by. It was at least "twice as large" as the first annual Loyalty Day Parade, according to LNP's reporting at the time.

The second annual parade was capped off at Memorial Park, where a youthful Army lieutenant, who had just returned home from the Vietnam War, spoke to a crowd of about 500 residents. "Vietnam, while it is a large, costly, and difficult problem, is a just cause and a job which America must see through because it's vital to world peace," the young Army lieutenant stated.

In 1969, Lancaster city held their own Loyalty Day Parade, with over 20,000 spectators and 60 units marching. An excerpt from LNP's reporting of the event reads, "The parade got its message across too -- loyalty to the nation in which we live, and to the ideals which keep us free."

Tensions rise as the Vietnam War continues

The same nationalism sentiment wasn't as widespread in the 1970 Loyalty Day Parade.

Pockets of residents who opposed the Vietnam War were spread across the parade route, occasionally chanting "peace now" and throwing up the peace sign as units marched by. One resident stated, "I think it's the biggest mistake [President] Nixon ever made," referring to the President's declaration to send more American troops to attack North Vietnamese supply centers in Cambodia just days before the parade. "We should let the guys come back. We shouldn't be there in the first place."

To read the original reporting from the 1970 Loyalty Day Parade in Lancaster, click here.

Tensions among the crowd grew at the following year's Loyalty Day Parade in Lancaster city.

A group of war protestors, most of whom identifying as Franklin & Marshall College students, caused disruptions during the annual parade in 1971. "Standing on the sidewalk in front of North Museum, the group read from the little red book of 'The Thoughts of Chariman Mao,' waved a pair of Viet Cong flags, and even shouted a few obscenities as the parade began. One young man read, in a loud voice, 'Patriotism is the last resort of the scoundrel,'" an excerpt from LNP's reporting of the event reads.

As the parade continued, four of the war protestors, two of them carrying Viet Cong flags, fell in behind the marchers. They chanted "Mao Tse Dong" as they marched alongside Boy Scouts, according to LNP's original report of the incident.

This didn't sit well with most of the parade viewers. One young man, identified as Joseph J. Ellenberger, became so enraged by the protestors actions that he ran into the parade route and tried to take the flags away from them.

Another F&M student entered the fray to defend the flag bearers from Ellenberger. While the two flag carriers disappeared into the crowd, the F&M student who defended them and Ellenberger were both arrested and charged with disorderly conduct.

To read the original reporting from the 1971 Loyalty Day Parade in Lancaster city, click here.

Despite the protestors capturing most of the attention during the 1971 parade, the following year saw "upwards of 50,000 persons" in attendance, according to LNP's reporting of the 1972 festivities.

The 1972 Loyalty Day Parade was dubbed "the best we've ever had" by Herbert C. (Bud) Mearig, the event's general chairman. Some of the city's police called it the "largest parade Lancaster has had in recent years."

Although the Vietnam War was still being fought, there were no disruptions from war protestors during the parade in '72.

To read the original reporting from the 1972 Loyalty Day Parade, click here.

Loyalty Day festivities run into financial trouble

Through the 1980s and into the 90s, Loyalty Day Parades became a fixture in Lancaster city. They grew in size and garnered more attention from the public with each passing year.

With the increasing size came an increasingly big financial burden for the city. Some believed the longstanding tradition would not see it's 29th anniversary in 1995 due to a lack of sponsors.

LNP's editorial board at the time urged to keep the tradition going, writing, "While it can be argued that not all traditions are worth preserving, the Loyalty Day Parade is one that deserves to be saved. It brings people together, it raises spirits and creates a sense of community that is often lacking in today's world."

With community support and financial contributions from Lancaster residents, the 29th annual Loyalty Parade went on as planned.

Loyalty Day celebrations continued into the early 2000s, but financial restraints continued to hinder the annual tradition. Despite the country being swept up in nationalism following the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center, Eugene Rutherford, the Loyalty Day Parade committee chairman, announced there would be no celebration in May, 2002.

"We didn't cancel the parade," Rutherford said when announcing the tradition's cancellation. "The parade canceled itself. We wanted to retire it with dignity."

Organizers for the parade cited cost, falling attendance, and difficulty attracting performers and volunteers as the main reasons for the parade's cancellation.

It was the first time in 34 years that Lancaster city did not host a Loyalty Day Parade.

To read the original reporting from the Loyalty Day Parade's cancellation, click here.

Loyalty Day gets revitalized

After a four-year hiatus, the beloved Loyalty Day Parade was revitalized in 2005. "The Loyalty Day Parade is back with a bang," reporting from the Lancaster New Era newspaper read in September, 2004.

With the help of public funding and an abundance of volunteers, the Loyalty Day Parade was reborn as the American Spirit Parade and took place on April 30 of 2005.

Lancaster County twin sisters Kay Knight and Kathy Hummel approached Lancaster city Mayor Charlie Smithgall in 2004, urging the mayor to consider holding the Loyalty Day festivities again. With their enthusiasm and passion to bring the parade back, Mayor Smithgall agreed to jump-start the revival, placing both of the sisters in charge of organizing the celebration.

Floats, high school marching bands, and antique cars rode along the 2.2-mile route throughout Lancaster city. Despite the rainy weather, residents sheltered in their porches or under awnings as the parade participants marched past.

Click here to read the original reporting from the inaugural American Spirit Parade.

The American Spirit Parades continued in Lancaster for the next few years, as the committee urged the public to help fund the event every year. But, the public funding ran dry in 2012, as the American Spirit Parade announced they would not hold their celebration in 2013, lacking the money needed to support it.

Since then, there haven't been any American Spirit or Loyalty Day Parades held in Lancaster city.

The parade took on many different shapes and forms over the decades. And it represented a different purpose for nearly everyone who attended and marched in the parade.
When: Supervisors meeting, April 19.

What happened: Supervisors conditionally approved plans for Lapp Valley Farm to relocate its creamery and concessions business to Old Philadelphia Pike in Gordonville.

Background: Lapp Valley Farm is an active dairy farm and tourist attraction based in New Holland that features a petting zoo, ice cream shop and other concessions. Because its owners would prefer to maintain the dairy farm as a separate entity, supervisors initially heard plans in 2018 to move the farms manufacturing and retail operations to a 5-acre subdivision within Leacock Township. The property is located along Old Philadelphia Pike (Route 340) near the South New Holland Road intersection. An address has not been established with the township or post office at this time.

Whats next: Board Chairman Frank Howe said, as a condition of approval, the owners must address several comments from the state Department of Transportation and township engineers pertaining to land development and stormwater management. The owners need to check off all the boxes before a final plan can be signed and recorded, Howe said.

Road bids: The board awarded $158,547 in contracts to New Enterprise Stone & Lime Co. Inc. to receive blacktop mix and other aggregate materials. This mix, according to Howe, will be used to complete general maintenance on horse tracks in the township.

Resignation: Supervisors accepted the resignation of Jake Smucker as a member of the board, effective immediately. The township will open its search for a replacement.
Too busy enjoying the spring weather this weekend to login and get your dose of LNP | LancasterOnline? No worries, we got you covered.

Here are seven articles from this past weekend to catch up on.

Lancaster woman awarded $6.4M medical malpractice verdict

A Lancaster County Court jury on Wednesday awarded a Lancaster woman $6.4 million after concluding that she lost her ability to walk unassisted and pain-free because her local neurologist initially failed to spot her congenital brain defect.

To read more, click the link below.

Ephrata High School grad stabbed, killed in Sunday altercation in Seattle suburb

A former Ephrata man was stabbed to death following an altercation Sunday (April 25) in a Seattle, Washington, suburb, officials there said.

To read more, click the link below.

Full flower supermoon, bountiful meteor shower: 4 astronomical events to watch for in May

May is a good month for astronomy lovers  it will feature events from a meteor shower to a supermoon.

To read more, click the link below.

'A roving nightmare': Former Lancaster police chief recounts summer protests on podcast

Jarrad Berkihiser was pushed out of his job as chief of the Lancaster City Bureau of Police last fall, the result of a falling out with the mayor over approaches to racial equity and progressive policing issues in the wake of the police killing of George Floyd.

In the months since, Berkihiser has kept largely quiet, saying little  publicly, at least  about what he thinks led to his unplanned departure, or the summer protests preceding it.

To read more, click the link below.

Kirkwoods gnome man plans to walk 380 miles to a Type 1 diabetes camp; heres why

One hundred years ago, everything about Richard Humphreys plan would be impossible.

One hundred years ago, a man like 78-year-old Humphreys probably wouldnt have lived as long as he has.

But a century after insulin was first introduced as a medical treatment, this Kirkwood man who has been living with Type 1 diabetes for 64 years is planning to walk 380 miles, from Pennsylvania to Ohio.

To read more, click the link below.

Up to 21K were without power Friday as extreme winds reached 64 mph

There were a plethora of incidents involving fallen trees, downed cables and power outages Friday in Lancaster County as winds reached up to 64 mph in certain areas as part of a storm expected to continue into Saturday morning.

To read more, click the link below.
A Lancaster city man who was convicted of charges in connection with a city shooting in Feb. 2019 was sentenced to at least 16-and-a-half years in state prison Monday, according to Lancaster County District Attorney's office.

That sentence, combined with other charges filed after the shooting, could mean Chappell Williams could spend up to 33 years behind bars.

Williams, 42, was sentenced to nine to 18 years in prison for aggravated assault, firearms carried without a license and person not to possess a firearm for the shooting which seriously injured another man, the district attorney's office said.

In Feb. 2019, Williams shot another person during a drug deal for marijuana, the district attorney's office said. Williams got into the back seat of the victim's vehicle for the transaction and then shot the man in the chest and leg when he went to get the marijuana.

The man survived.

Williams will serve the sentence consecutively with another prison sentence of seven-and-a-half to 15 years for charges he received after the shooting.

Five days after the shooting took place, officers saw Williams throw a firearm under a vehicle while they went to arrest him. He later confirmed he used it in the shooting and was arrested and charged with persons not to possess a firearm in connection with a crime, according to the district attorney's office.

In total, Williams faces 16-and-a-half years to 33 years in prison.

Assistant District Attorney Christine Wilson said that Williams has "been a career criminal, failing to conform to the laws of society." She added that "he thought nothing of randomly firing two shots at the victim, at point-blank range, inside of a car."

Sentencing judge Thomas Sponaungle said that "people need to be protected from people like Chappell Williams."
THE ISSUE: Its Monday, the day we take a few moments to highlight the good news in Lancaster County. Some of these items are welcome developments on the economic front or for neighborhoods across the county. Others are local stories of achievement, perseverance, compassion and creativity that represent welcome points of light in a still-difficult time. All of this news deserves a brighter spotlight.

We have a diverse collection of Good Things to tout this week, starting with a new Homes of Hope facility in Ephrata that will be used to temporarily house homeless families until they can find permanent residences. The project literally rose from the ashes.

It took volunteers eight months to restore an Ephrata apartment building that had been all but destroyed by fire two years ago, LNP | LancasterOnlines Erik Yabor wrote in the April 25 Sunday LNP | LancasterOnline.

Homes of Hope, a local Christian organization, put $160,000 into the project, assisted by about $29,000 in donations from organizations and individuals. There were other contributions, too.

All of the kitchen cabinetry and bathroom cabinetry was completely donated, said Barry Kreider, Homes of Hope Ephrata chairperson.

Kreider hopes the renovated building can be fully occupied by mid-May. Then his group will seek local landlords who are willing to give participants permanent homes.

We need landlords who understand the program, who are willing to work and willing to take that risk by taking them in, Kreider told Yabor.

We applaud this compassionate effort and hope its next steps in helping vulnerable families go well.

In other Good Things:

 The past year has been incredibly difficult for so many businesses and their employees. So its always encouraging to read stories about perseverance, such as last weeks article by LNP | LancasterOnlines Aniya Thomas about Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery in Lititz.

Thomas writes that 160 years after Julius Sturgis opened his namesake bakery in 1861 when he was 26, the Lititz business has rebounded and is focused on using lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic to bolster its business.

In March, the bakery saw sales increase to levels not achieved since before the pandemic; they were essentially even with March 2019.

And the old company is learning new tricks, including the value of social media in advertising.

Tourists, day-trippers and buses are starting to return, which is very welcome news not just for Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery, but for the many county businesses that depend heavily upon out-of-towners.

We never doubted that we were going to survive the pandemic, Kurt Van Gilder, the bakerys general manager, told Thomas. We had comfort in knowing that were an iconic part of downtown Lititz. Losing us would be to lose some of the soul of Lititz.

The good news from this pretzel bakery is one plot twist were happy to see.

 A new partnership between Elizabethtown Area High School and the Northwest EMS is providing students with hands-on learning, while also addressing a national need for more trained emergency management technicians, The Elizabethtown Advocate, a weekly newspaper thats part of LNP Media Group, reported recently.

The innovative program  the only such partnership in Lancaster County  allows students to attend school half a day and then receive classroom and hands-on training at the Northwest EMS building from EMS instructors, the Advocate reported.

Most of the students taking part say they want to pursue a career in health care, so the hands-on work is invaluable.

I want to make a difference, said Nadia Guringo, a senior at Commonwealth Charter Academy who is taking part in the program alongside the Elizabethtown students.

As we move closer, hopefully, to the conclusion of a pandemic thats been so stressful and exhausting for health care workers, its promising to read about young people who want to follow in their footsteps. They will be the next generation of heroes.

 Theres news to highlight from our lawmakers in Harrisburg. Legislation moved forward in the General Assembly that would create a tax credit program for qualifying donations to a Pennsylvania pediatric cancer research hospital.

The bill, sponsored by state Sen. Scott Martin, R-Martic Township, could generate up to $100 million in private donations for research over the next decade.

As a father, I cannot imagine the pain and fear associated with a pediatric cancer diagnosis, Martin stated in a news release. These families deserve to know that we are fighting for them and taking every opportunity to improve treatments, both now and in the future.

Martin also authored a 2018 law that allows Pennsylvanians to donate $5 to the Pediatric Cancer Research Fund when electronically renewing a drivers license, photo identification card or vehicle registration. So this new legislation represents a continuing and admirable commitment on his part toward boosting cancer research.

Senate Bill 74 passed the Senate unanimously on April 28. It now goes to the House, where we hope it receives swift consideration and passage.

 We love reading about the contributions of local youth organizations. Last week, Danielle Peters, the director of the Columbia Food Bank, wrote a letter praising the friendly and helpful Scouts who stocked the nonprofit organizations storage space.

On Saturday, April 17, Boy Scout Troop 281 and Cub Scout Pack 181 from Ironville were not only friendly and helpful, but also kind, generous and decidedly enthusiastic as they and their leaders collected and delivered to the Columbia Food Bank almost 600 pounds of much-needed (and appreciated) food supplies, Peters wrote. Thats over a quarter-ton of food! They not only collected and delivered this vast amount of food, but then carried it all up to our second-floor storage area.

Peters concluded with a great anecdote about how a young Scout handed her a huge box of cereal and said, Here, help someone!

The world will be in great hands with the young generations coming up behind us.
Ramos said the city is exploring ways to use some of the $670 million allotted to Baltimore from the federal American Rescue Plan, although the funds cannot be used to backfill for tax credits, reductions in rates, rebates or major changes in policy or law. Ernst & Young, an accounting group hired by the city to assist with managing its federal assistance during the pandemic, is exploring the question with federal officials, Ramos said.
Here are several things that I believe every free-thinking American citizen should ponder:

 Former President Donald Trump gave news briefings in which the media gave him hardball questions. Meanwhile, President Joe Biden, in my view, gets softball questions when he occasionally makes an appearance in front of the media.

 Most Democrats thought it was inhumane to build a wall at our southern border to protect Americans from drugs, sex trafficking and migrants crossing into America illegally. Meanwhile, a fence was built around the U.S. Capitol (which belongs to the people) to protect members of Congress from Americans.

 Democrats push for more gun regulations every time there is a mass shooting. Meanwhile, we had members of the National Guard outside the fence of the U.S. Capitol, plus other armed security, all paid for by taxpayer dollars.

 Some Democrats claim that it is a hardship for a voter to be required to show identification in order to vote in any election. Meanwhile, an ID card is required to receive most government benefits. Every person needs an ID card for one purpose or another.

Food for thought!

Debra Schelling

East Hempfield Township
May 2, 2021 (EIRNS)Anyone who is not sleep-walking is aware that madness has taken over strategic planners in the trans-Atlantic region. The major Western banking system, squatting on trillions of dollars printed up by subservient governments to keep them afloat, is not investing in anything productive, and has declared that it is cutting off credit to fossil fuels and carbon-emitting industry and agriculture to save the planet, while killing off much of the human population. The Biden administration has declared Russia and China to be existential threats, while also declaring that nuclear war is no longer unlikely, but has become likely. NATO is moving into military positions directly on the Russian and Chinese borders. Presidents Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping are declaring that they want global cooperation, but also assert that NATO is crossing several well defined red lines, challenging their sovereignty, and forcing them to prepare for war. It could not be clearer that the world is on the brink of a thermonuclear holocaust.

But the reality is that many peopleeven most peopleare sleepwalking. There are signs that the level of economic and strategic insanity is so great that some people are beginning to throw away their delusions, recognizing that the evil is taking place in their name, by their governments, and an anti-Malthusian movement is emerging, to save mankind from its own folly. The Schiller Institute and The LaRouche Organization are the primary organizing force for that critical effort, and are holding a conference of leading speakers from around the world on May 8, under the title in the headline of this report, which all people of good will should register and attend.

The fundamental question, then, is, how to wake up the sleepwalkers, to get people to consider their purpose on Earth, to create a force capable of stopping the holocaust and building a new paradigm for mankind, based on Classical scientific and cultural ideas. Helga Zepp-LaRouche, speaking to The LaRouche Organization Manhattan Project town hall on May 1, addressed this directly at this link:

I personally think that this question of the indifference; that people have lost the ability to reactmaybe because people are demoralized, maybe because people think you cant do anything about it anyway, what can I do as an individual. But I think there is a deeper cultural question. I want to refer to something which my late husband Lyndon LaRouche has said many times; namely, that he was convinced that the only way humanity would get out of this crisis would be if a large enough number of people would regain an ability to think in a Classical way. That sounds like a very far-fetched and far-off possibility, because most people today dont even have a clear idea what Classical means. They think Classical means the Beatles or the Rolling Stones or something like that. But it is, in my view, one of the most important questions; to regain a knowledge of what scientific thinking and Classical thinking in art really is. Because otherwise you are in the situation where opinion reigns, and in a liberal world every opinion is as good as the other one, and therefore you end in a complete chaos and non-action.

I want to very briefly look at something which may be a little bit not your daily thinking. But I want to say that the West in general is clearly in a moral crisis. If you look at the suicide rates of young people, if you look at the drug addiction, if you look at the number of people dying by violence, mass shootings. The fact that we tolerate so many things, that we dont have an impulse to try to make the world better. Many people may debate what Im saying, but I do think that the most important underlying axiomatic problem is that we have a moral collapse. There are some people who know that, and we are talking to them. But the question people should ask themselves is, how did we get here? What was the process of undermining the beautiful principles of the American Revolution, of the American Constitution? Given the fact that we in Germany have had the horrible experience of plunging from the absolute height of Classical culture, of the Classical period between Bach and Mozart, to Beethoven, Schubert, Schuman, Schiller, Humboldt. We in Germany had a Classical period which expressed the highest conception of humanity in terms of universal history.... So, the question naturally is, how was it possible that such a very high culture could plunge into the depths of the 12 years of National Socialism? Obviously, this is a very complex question, and many factors went into it. For example, in this same period, the German Classical period and the American Revolution happened almost at the same time....

What they did when the German Classical thinkerseverybody from Winckelmann to Schiller to Lessing to Goethethey had revived the ancient Classical tradition. Like the Italian Renaissance, they went back to the highest forms of thinking of philosophy, of culture, which had existed before, and they tried to reconstruct the idea that the truthful beauty and the good are actually a unity. Art is only art when it is beautiful, and when it serves the good, and when its truthful. All of these elements have to come together.

What the Romantic poets did was, they immediately replaced this return to the Classical period of Greece to turning to the Middle Ages. They glorified the Middle Ages, and they replaced the Greek reference with the Nordic myths, the Nibelungen saga, Parsifal, Lohengrin, Tristan and Isolde, and some of you may recognize that these were also the subjects which were then used by Wagner for his compositions. He was getting very close to the National Socialists. They started to turn all the notions of the Classical period and softened them....

And while I dont want to go into all of these peoples work in detail, they were crazy!

If you read their novels, they all are schizophrenic, the behavior of people who have fantasies, who have death wishes, dreaming, who want to turn the day into the dream, and everything should vanish into some fantasy....

So, the challenge today is how can we rediscover our humanity, so that we are able to cope with this incredible strategic situation? In that sense, dealing with Classical art is not a waste of time or a deviation. It is the precondition, because if you dont listen to Beethovens music and you dont think in terms of Shakespeare, Keats, Shelley, Poe, Schiller, Dante, Petrarca, you cannot mobilize this quality and clarity of thinking.
Monday, May 3, 2021

Official White House Photo

After waffling on whether to increase refugee admissions from Trump era levels, President Biden issued his refugee admission numbers today:

"In Executive Order 14013 of February 4, 2021 (Rebuilding and Enhancing Programs to Resettle Refugees and Planning for the Impact of Climate Change on Migration), I directed numerous actions to rebuild, expand, and improve the United States Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP). On February 12, 2021, the Department of State submitted a report to certain congressional committees and, with the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Health and Human Services, consulted with the Congress regarding a proposal to re-allocate admissions among refugees of humanitarian concern and to increase Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 refugee admissions from 15,000 refugees to 62,500 refugees due to an unforeseen emergency refugee situation in countries around the globe since the signing of Presidential Determination 2021-02 on October 27, 2020 (Presidential Determination on Refugee Admissions for Fiscal Year 2021) (PD 2021-02).



In Presidential Determination 2021-05 of April 16, 2021 (Emergency Presidential Determination on Refugee Admissions for Fiscal Year 2021) (PD 2021-05), I changed the allocation of admissions in PD 2021-02 based on a determination that new allocations were necessary to respond to the unforeseen emergency refugee situation. Based on this change, USRAP partners are beginning travel preparations for more than 2,000 refugees who were excluded under PD 2021-02, but who can now be admitted to the United States.



In PD 2021-05, I did not change the pre-existing number of refugee admissions permitted for FY 2021, which remained at 15,000. I also stated that I would consider raising the worldwide refugee admissions ceiling before the end of FY 2021, should the pre-existing level be reached and the emergency refugee situation persist. When I signed PD 2021-05, my intent was to adjust only the allocation of admissions and to address the appropriate number of refugees in a separate determination. Upon additional briefing and a more comprehensive presentation regarding the capacity of the executive departments and agencies charged with administering USRAP to increase refugee admissions while responding to other demands, and given the ongoing unforeseen emergency refugee situation, I now determine, consistent with my Administrations prior consultation with the Congress, that raising the number of admissions permissible for FY 2021 to 62,500 is justified by grave humanitarian concerns and is otherwise in the national interest.



The number of refugee admissions authorized by this determination under section 207(b) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1157(b)) sends the important message that the United States remains a safe harbor for some of the most vulnerable people in the world. This number also sets a goal for USRAP and the non-governmental and international organizations with whom USRAP partners to resettle refugees. Given the gravity of the global refugee crisis, the number of authorized refugee admissions must be ambitious enough to challenge the United States Government and its partners to build their capacity to serve more refugees. In my judgment, a refugee admissions determination of 62,500 reflects these values, is justified by grave humanitarian concerns, and is otherwise in the national interest of the United States.



The FY 2021 allocations set forth in section (b) of PD 2021-05 are adjusted as follows:



Africa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22,000

East Asia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6,000

Europe and Central Asia . . . . . . . . . . . . 4,000

Latin America and the Caribbean . . . . . . . . 5,000

Near East and South Asia . . . . . . . . . . . 13,000

Unallocated Reserve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12,500

The provisions of PD 2021-05 are retained, except to the extent superseded by this determination.



You are authorized and directed to publish this determination in the Federal Register.

JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR."

President Biden increased the number of refugee numbers from 15,000, a historic low, which President Trump had announced, to 62,500, which he previously had announced.

KJ

https://lawprofessors.typepad.com/immigration/2021/05/memorandum-for-the-secretary-of-state-on-the-emergency-presidential-determination-on-refugee-admissions-for-fiscal-year-2021.html
Some Africans are avoiding COVID-19 vaccines because they are concerned about safety.

This has worried international public health officials as some countries have begun to destroy doses that expired before they could be used.

Malawi and South Sudan in recent days have said they will destroy some of their doses because they had expired.

Africas 1.3 billion people represent 16 percent of the worlds population. But, the World Health Organization reports that Africa has received less than 2 percent of the worlds COVID-19 vaccine doses.

African countries have confirmed more than 4.5 million COVID-19 cases, including 120,000 deaths. That is a very small percentage of the worlds deaths.

Some experts, however, worry that Africas 54 nations will suffer in the long term if it takes longer than expected to get to 70 percent immunity. That is the number needed to stop the uncontrolled spread of the virus. Immunity can be gotten through vaccination or past infection.

African nations are hoping to vaccinate up to 60 percent of their people by the end of 2022.

That target will require about 1.5 billion vaccine doses for Africa if the two-injection AstraZeneca vaccine continues to be widely used. It is the main vaccine used by the COVAX program for developing countries.

Safety concerns about that vaccine have left some Africans worried. Untrue vaccination-related stories have spread widely on social media. They might be the result of a common lack of trust in government and officials.

Ugandas health minister was forced to deal with untrue stories that she had faked her vaccination. Please stop spreading fake news! she wrote on Twitter, along with a photo of her receiving the injection.

Other untrue stories include a claim that the vaccine can cause infertility or that it was created too quickly to be real.

The world has failed to find a vaccine for AIDS all these years, but they quickly found a vaccine for COVID? I am not going to go for that vaccine, said Richard Bbale. He is an electrician in the Ugandan capital, Kampala.



The World Health Organization and the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have urged African governments to continue giving out the AstraZeneca vaccine. They say people in African countries should not be concerned about reports of rare blood clots in a few people who have gotten the vaccine.

Anything you take has a risk. Any medication, Africa CDC director John Nkengasong said last week. Thats the way we should be looking at these vaccines, he added.

The Africa CDC said recently that it had received information from the Serum Institute of India that vaccines set to expire on April 13 could be good for another three months.

Africa nations dont have a choice, Nkengasong said, urging Malawi not to destroy 16,000 AstraZeneca doses that expired earlier in April.

It is unclear if Malawi will accept the advice.

The country has administered less than 50 percent of more than 500,000 doses it received from the COVAX program.

An additional 1.26 million doses expected from COVAX at the end of May could go unused if people continue to avoid the vaccine, said Shouts Simeza. He is president of the National Organization of Nurses and Midwives in Malawi. He said making the vaccine required by law may solve the problem.

In an effort to reach more people, Malawi has just made the vaccine available to anyone over 18.

Ugandas ministry of health may soon take steps to increase vaccination. Uganda has received 964,000 doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine, the only one available in the country. Only 230,000 doses have been used since March 10.

The government is now asking famous television actors and athletes to get their vaccinations publicly to show its safety.

Acceptance is gradually improving, a spokesperson said.

The local Daily Monitor newspaper recently reported that more than 280,000 doses will likely expire by July. That is because the current rate of vaccinations is about 6,000 shots each day.

Im Susan Shand.

The Associated Press reported this story. Susan Shand adapted it for Learning English. Mario Ritter, Jr. was the editor.

____________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

expire  v. to no longer be usable or good after a period of time

dose  n. the amount of a medicine, drug or vitamin this is taken at one time

immunity  adj. the power to keep yourself from being affected by a disease

clot  n. (medical) a mass of dried blood that stops blood from flowing through blood vessels

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A genetic study of Sumatran rhinoceroses is providing what scientists call good news for the critically endangered animal. Experts say fewer than 100 of them remain in existence.

Researchers report that the two wild rhino populations on the islands of Borneo and Sumatra showed unexpectedly good genetic health in a new study. The study also showed surprisingly low levels of inbreeding.

Inbreeding is the result of producing young from closely related parents.

The Sumatran rhinoceros is known for its two small horns and a thin coat of reddish-brown hair. It is the closest living relative to the wooly rhinoceros of the last Ice Age.

Nicolas Dussex helped lead the study that was published in Nature Communications.

"With such small population sizes, we were expecting much higher inbreeding," he said.

Dussex added that the findings suggest there may still be time to save the genetic diversity of the animal.

Researchers studied the genomes of seven rhinos from Borneo, eight from Sumatra and six from the former Malay Peninsula population.

The Sumatran rhinoceros is the smallest of the world's five rhinoceros species, weighing around 700 to 800 kilograms. The animal lives in rainforest areas. It also lives alone, except when mating and raising young. The animals once lived across a wide area of Southeast Asia, from the Himalayas to Borneo and Sumatra.

Illegal hunting, or poaching, and environmental destruction have hurt its population. The Sumatran rhinoceros population fell by about 70 percent over the past two decades.

Johanna von Seth was the study's lead author. She says genetic diversity is very important to the animals long-term survival.

It permits, she said, adaptation to future environmental changes and diseases." Adaptation means a change in an animal that makes it better able to live.

The researchers said steps such as moving rhinos for mating or using artificial insemination could cause an exchange of genes between the Borneo and Sumatra populations.

The Sumatran rhinoceros has shown low reproductive success in captivity and faces a high risk of inbreeding in the wild because of its small numbers.

Inbreeding creates a heightened risk of genetic problems. Scientists had feared that reports of health issues among these rhinos were evidence of a dangerously inbred population.

Love Dalen was a co-writer of the study.

"It's important to remember that the Sumatran rhino is still on the verge of extinction due to non-genetic factors, he said.

A factor is something that helps produce a result or effect.

Dalen said that the study showed that the species genetics alone will not necessarily cause its extinction. But, problems from environmental destruction of its homelands and illegal hunting must be solved also, he said.

Im John Russell.

Will Dunham reported on this story for Reuters. John Russell adapted it for Learning English. Caty Weaver was the editor.

_____________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

species -- n. biology : a group of animals or plants that are similar and can produce young animals or plants : a group of related animals or plants that is smaller than a genus

captivity -- n. the state of being kept in a place (such as a prison or a cage) and not being able to leave or be free : the state or condition of being captive

artificial insemination  n. medical: a medical process in which semen is used to make a woman or female animal pregnant without sexual intercourse

on the verge of  expression at the point when (something) is about to happen or is very likely to happen

extinction -- n.the state or situation that results when something (such as a plant or animal species) has died out completely


Several American banks have started using surveillance software and computer vision to watch people using their services. Computer vision is a part of artificial intelligence that uses computers to understand the world we see.

A Reuters news agency investigation found that the software is used to learn about customers, watch employees and spot people sleeping near Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs).

Banks like the City National Bank of Florida and JPMorgan Chase & Co have tested facial recognition and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. The growth of AI tools within the banking industry could signal the spread of the technology into other industries.

Bobby Dominguez is the chief information security officer at City National Bank. He said smartphones that open through facial recognition have shown the potential of the technology.

"We're already leveraging facial recognition on mobile," he said. "Why not leverage it in the real world?"

Dominguez said City National will begin testing facial recognition next year to identify customers and employees. He added the software could find people on government watch lists.

Facial recognition technology, however, has raised civil rights concerns among many people. Critics of the tool point to arrests of innocent people wrongly identified by the technology. The software is said to be used disproportionately in poorer and minority communities. Critics also say the technology results in a loss of privacy.

This year, Portland, Oregon, banned businesses from using facial recognition in public places. The drugstore company Rite Aid also closed a facial recognition program last year.

Fredrik Nilsson is the vice president at Axis Communications, which makes surveillance cameras. He said a big question for banks with this technology is how the public will react to it.

Dominguez said he and other bank officials had thought about customers concerns.

"We're never going to compromise our clients' privacy," Dominguez said.

Watching workers and customers

The largest American bank, JPMorgan, began using surveillance technology in 2019. Former employees said the bank researched videos and photos to learn more about their customers.

Video showed that more men would visit the bank before or after lunch. Women would come in the middle of the afternoon. Before the pandemic, the company was going to use the footage to see whether women avoided contact with others while using ATMs. JPMorgan said it uses the data to better plan work hours for employees and to design its banks.

A current employee said the bank could soon test facial recognition software on people as they enter a bank. People would need to agree to be a part of the test, however.

JPMorgan is using software that aims to measure how employees spend their time. Others seek to identify how many customers leave because of long lines and to find out how long transactions take.

The bank also said that facial, race and gender recognition are not part of the test.

Targeting homeless people

Banks have wanted to use computer vision for security for a long time. More than 10 years ago, Wells Fargo used old software to study video of crimes to see if any faces matched known criminals.

An official at a bank in Americas South said that computer vision is being used at all of his companys banks. It creates warnings when doors to safes or other important rooms are left open.

Outside, the bank watches for people loitering. Some homeless people set up shelters underneath covered ATMs. Security workers can play a sound message asking those people to leave, the official said.

Brian Karas works at Airship Industries, which creates computer vision software. He said that banks have long been concerned with people sleeping in ATM spaces where people use machines to do their banking business.

Some software can sound an alarm or shine a bright light when cameras see a person loitering, Karas said. He added that the companies did not want to displace people seeking shelter, but that the company believed it was necessary to make ATMs safe and available.

Bank of America, the countrys second largest bank, has also invested in computer vision. At a September 2019 conference with the bank, the company AnyVision explained how it could identify the face of a Bank of America official.

The bank said, "We are always reviewing potential new technology solutions that are on the market."

I'm Dan Friedell.

Paresh Dave and Jeffrey Dastin reported this story for Reuters. Dan Novak adapted it for VOA Learning English. Mario Ritter, Jr. was the editor.

____________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

surveillance-n. the act of carefully watching someone or something especially in order to prevent or detect a crime

vision-n. the ability to see : sight or eyesight

potential-n. a quality that something has that can be developed to make it better

leveragen. influence or power used to achieve a desired result

disproportionate-adj. having or showing a difference that is not fair, reasonable, or expected ; too large or too small in relation to something

privacy-n. the state of being alone : the state of being away from other people

transaction-n. the act or process of doing business with another person, company, etc.

loiter-v. to remain in an area when you do not have a particular reason to be there


After a 3,000-kilometer trip, 16-year-old Jose Luis Boyeduana arrived in the United States.

At the end of 2020, he decided to travel from his home in Ecuador to reunite with his parents living in the U.S. It had been 13 years since he had seen them. Boyeduana had been living with his grandparents in Ecuador since he was three years old.

Happiness can only be found with your parents, he said.

Boyeduana crossed in January through Miguel Aleman, an area in Mexico near the US-Mexico border. He said he was held for two months at a federal immigrant holding center in Roma, Texas.

Tens of thousands of children who are not with their families have been stopped at the U.S. border with Mexico in recent months. President Joe Bidens administration has struggled to find places to put them.

The U.S. government has opened about 14 new shelters to house immigrant children. Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador recently told reporters his administration will also open shelters on the Mexican side of the border.

As of April 22, more than 23,000 migrant children were being held by the U.S. government.

These unaccompanied children arriving at the border must go through a two-step process before they are released to close relatives in the U.S. First, they are taken to a border patrol station. Within three days, they must be taken to the Office of Refugee Resettlement in the Department of Health and Human Services and placed in centers designed for children.

Under a new Biden administration policy, some children and families that cross the border without legal permission can stay. That is different from the policy of the administration of former President Donald Trump. The Biden administration is continuing to expel adult immigrants and families with older children.

U.S. officials returned Boyeduana to his mother and father in March. Both live in the United States. The parents had to prove they were his legal guardians.

"This happiness is forever, being with my son, said Carlos Lozada, Boyeduanas father.

The message is to wait

The Biden administration has said that many migrants crossing the border will not be successful if they choose to seek asylum.

Roberta Jacobson is a Biden administration official. She is telling immigrants that many people seeking asylum will be sent back.

So really the message is to wait because there will be more options, she told VOA.

To seek asylum in the United States, a person must prove they faced mistreatment in their home country for at least one of five reasons. Those reasons are race, religion, nationality, social group or political opinion.

Why they leave

Immigrants have many reasons for coming to the United States. But these may or may not meet the standards for asylum protection.

Many people crossing the border illegally say they want to escape violence, poverty and even natural disasters. Many places in Central America, for example, have been affected by hurricanes.

Eda Cristelia Melendez is a Honduran in her 70s. She is currently living with her young granddaughter in a shelter in Mexico, just across the border from El Paso, Texas.

She said U.S. officials sent her granddaughter and her back to Mexico after they tried to cross the border. The girls mother told Melendez to send the child across the border by herself. Melendez refused.

Have you thought [of what could happen] if the girl goes alone? she remembered asking.

U.S. officials agree with the grandmothers concerns.

Emily Mendrala is with the State Department Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs. She said, "Were working with partnersto deter the dangerous travel of those unaccompanied children.

Republican lawmakers in Congress blame the Biden administration for the increase in border arrivals.

Representative John Katko is a Republican from New York and member of the House Committee on Homeland Security. He said he warned the Biden administration of quickly changing immigration policy.

We warned of this impending crisis months ago, he said.

Im Jonathan Evans.

Aline Barros and Celia Mendoza reported this story for Voice of America. Dan Novak adapted it for VOA Learning English. Mario Ritter, Jr. was the editor.

________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

unaccompanied adj. without another person; alone

guardian n. someone who takes care of another person or of another person's property

option n. the ability to choose between two or more things

expensive  adj. costing a lot of money

standard -n. : a level of quality or set of conditions that must be met in order to be accepted

deter-v. to cause (someone) to decide not to do something

impending-adj. happening or likely to happen soon
PV Real Estate



This Month's PV Hot Property from Tropicasa Realty

Slide Description 002 Slide Description 002 Slide Description 002 Slide Description 002 Slide Description 002 Slide Description 002 Slide Description 002 Slide Description 002 For more information, or to schedule your tour of Posada Rio Cuale 402, this month's Hot Property in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, contact Tropicasa Realty agent Ian Shepherd at 322-183-4327 or ian(at)tropicasa.com. Posada Rio Cuale 402, Emiliano Zapata - Offered at: $405,000 USD



Located in the Emiliano Zapata neighborhood on the south side of Puerto Vallarta, Posada Rio Cuale 402 is a large, bright and airy 2-bed, 2-bath, 4th floor condominium that offers great views of the landmark Our Lady of Guadalupe Church and side views of Banderas Bay.



The spacious living room is beautifully decorated in authentic Mexican style and opens onto a terrace that runs across the whole front of the condo. There is a view of the mountains and to the west there is a partial view of the ocean. There is also a gas grill for barbecues.



The gourmet kitchen has granite finishes with a center island, stainless steel appliances, plenty of beautiful wood cabinets, and an open layout.



The spacious master bedroom features a terrace and an elegant bath, while the 2nd bedroom can be used as an office or guest bedroom.



The common pool is lovely and private with nice tables and chairs for lounging.



Centrally located with parking and bodega, this fully-furnished home has had a full-time single owner for the past 11 years, so you can be assured that the property has been very well-maintained.



This is an ideal home for those looking for a quiet unit in the flat part of town, 2 blocks from the beach, restaurants and bars. A must-see property!



For more information, or to schedule your tour of



Click HERE to see more of Tropicasa Realty's Hot Properties in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

Since 1997, Wayne Franklin and his team at Tropicasa Realty have been a trusted name in Puerto Vallarta real estate. Tropicasa Realty is the region's representative for "The Leading Agents of the World" and with over 100 years of combined experience in real estate, all agents of the company are affiliated with AMPI. Wayne Franklin or any member of his knowledgeable team can be contacted in-person at their Romantic Zone Office - Pulpito 145-A at Olas Altas. While in PV they can be reached at (322) 222-6505 or by calling 866-978-5539 (Toll-Free) from the U.S.

Click HERE to learn more about Tropicasa Realty, or visit tropicasa.com. Located in the Emiliano Zapata neighborhood on the south side of Puerto Vallarta, Posada Rio Cuale 402 is a large, bright and airy 2-bed, 2-bath, 4th floor condominium that offers great views of the landmark Our Lady of Guadalupe Church and side views of Banderas Bay.The spacious living room is beautifully decorated in authentic Mexican style and opens onto a terrace that runs across the whole front of the condo. There is a view of the mountains and to the west there is a partial view of the ocean. There is also a gas grill for barbecues.The gourmet kitchen has granite finishes with a center island, stainless steel appliances, plenty of beautiful wood cabinets, and an open layout.The spacious master bedroom features a terrace and an elegant bath, while the 2nd bedroom can be used as an office or guest bedroom.The common pool is lovely and private with nice tables and chairs for lounging.Centrally located with parking and bodega, this fully-furnished home has had a full-time single owner for the past 11 years, so you can be assured that the property has been very well-maintained.This is an ideal home for those looking for a quiet unit in the flat part of town, 2 blocks from the beach, restaurants and bars. A must-see property!For more information, or to schedule your tour of Posada Rio Cuale 402, this month's Hot Property in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, contact Tropicasa Realty agent Ian Shepherd at 322-183-4327 or ian(at)tropicasa.com.



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Garrett K. Jones is a local fantasy author. He currently has four books released in his ongoing series, and he produces a vlog on YouTube and the Creator's Corner podcast (available on Spotify, Google, & Apple). www.archivesofthefivekingdoms.com/ IG/Twitter: @gkj_publishing

Feel free to contact him with title suggestions of films youd like him to review.
Eric S. Fish (University of California, Davis - School of Law) has posted Race, History, and Immigration Crimes (Iowa Law Review, Forthcoming) on SSRN. Here is the abstract:

The two most frequently charged federal crimes are immigration crimes: the misdemeanor of entering the United States without inspection, and the felony of reentering the United States after deportation. Federal prosecutors charge tens of thousands of people with these two crimes each year. In 2019, these two crimes comprised a majority of all federal criminal cases. About 99% of the defendants in these cases are nationals of Mexico or other Latin American countries.

These two crimes were enacted into law through the Undesirable Aliens Act of 1929. The legislative history of that Act reveals that its authors were motivated by pseudoscientific racism. They sought to preserve the purity of the white race by preventing Latin American immigrants from settling permanently in the United States. And they spoke forthrightly about this motive. They described Latin American immigrants as mongrelized, peons, degraded, and mixed blood. They held hearings where experts in eugenics testified about Latin Americans undesirable racial characteristics. They gave speeches about the need to protect American blood from contamination. They described Latin American immigration as a great race question concerning invasion by people essentially different from us in character, in social position, and otherwise.

This Article thoroughly documents the legislative history of the Undesirable Aliens Act of 1929. It relies on primary sourcesspeeches, legislative reports, testimony, statements in the congressional record, private correspondences, eugenicist scholarship, and other writings by the men who conceived and enacted the law. The Article shows that this history brings the law into conflict with the Constitutions Equal Protection Clause. While the crimes of unlawful entry and reentry are racially neutral on their faces, the story of their enactment reveals explicit racial animus against Latin American immigrants. Consequently, they are unconstitutional under the framework established by the Supreme Court in Arlington Heights v. Metropolitan Housing Development Corp. The Article also considers whether these crimes can be defended under Congresss broad power to enact immigration laws, and whether their pro forma 1952 reenactment purged them of racial animus.

Highly recommended.
Robert Nichols is the state senator for Senate District 3. First elected in 2006, Nichols represents 19 counties, including much of East Texas and part of Montgomery County. He can be reached at 699-4988 or toll-free at (800) 959-8633. His email address is robert.nichols@senate.texas.gov.
Dear Editor: I see that middle schools in Wisconsin will now be required to teach about "the Holocaust and other genocides." Heres a helping hand. This list of 20th century genocides was prepared by Jews for the Preservation of Firearms Ownership back in 1994:

 Ottoman Turkey, 1915-1917 vs. Armenia, 1-1.5 million casualties  Soviet Union, 1929-1953, vs. anti-Communists and anti-Stalinists, 20 million  Nazi Germany, 1933-1945, vs. Jews, Gypsies, Gays and anti-Nazis, 13 million  China, 1949-1952, vs. anti-Communists, 20 million  China, 1966-1976, vs. pro-reformers, 15 million  Guatemala, 1960-1981, vs. Maya Indians, 100,000  Uganda, 1971-1979, vs. Christians and political rivals, 300,000  Cambodia, 1975-1979, vs. intelligentsia, 1 million

It will be interesting to see if the new curricula will mention that all of the target populations had been systematically disarmed by gun control laws between one and 20 years prior to the onset of their extermination campaigns.

But of course, that cant happen here, can it? (Apologies to Sinclair Lewis.) Well, of course not! Just because the former guy said I like taking guns away early. Take the guns first, go through due process second. (Donald J. Trump, Feb. 28, 2018), that doesnt mean he and his pals would ever really DO it!
Dear Editor: I recently read the article by Abigail Becker published in The Cap Times on the Housing Forward plan and I want to amplify the devastating effects our current housing crisis has on health outcomes and mortality in our community.

Housing instability is a medical emergency. As a student nurse, I often work with patients whose basic needs are not being met, including adequate access to food, water and shelter. These patients are limited in being able to engage in health-related behaviors, which can lead to poor health outcomes and increased risk for mortality.

What people dont realize is that poor health outcomes are not just linked to individual behaviors  they are also heavily affected by social and economic forces like housing instability. Homelessness and overcrowded homes are linked to higher rates of premature death, increased prevalence of infectious diseases, mental disorders and substance misuse. All of this results in higher health care spending and further limits ones ability to succeed.
Activities such as biking, fishing, camping, paddling and hiking all helped stem the losses for several northern counties. Vilas County, home to over 1,300 lakes and miles of bike trails, saw spending dip by 3.9%, Bayfield County on Lake Superior saw a decrease of 2.7% while Ashland County was down 7.8%. Trempealeau County, which ranks 53rd in spending, saw the smallest decline at 1.9% to $27.4 million.

No fanfare

The overall economic impact of tourism in Wisconsin dropped 22.3% to $17.3 billion while in Dane County the overall impact was down 30.1% to $1.6 billion, according to the numbers from Tourism Economics, which was commissioned by the state to study spending.

The state Department of Tourism normally trumpets its annual spending report and in years past has given the Wisconsin State Journal embargoed data to prepare stories about what are typically positive trends in tourism spending.

But this year the numbers were not released to media by the state, there was no advance notice nor even a press release. Acting Tourism Secretary Anne Sayers has not issued a statement about the numbers and could not be reached for comment. She replaced Sara Meaney, who left the position in November after two years on the job.
Saying he would not go along with plaintiffs political goal, a Dane County judge on Monday refused to issue a temporary injunction blocking local public health officials from issuing orders aimed at preventing the spread of COVID-19.

Circuit Judge Jacob Frost said state statutes clearly gave Janel Heinrich, director of Public Health Madison and Dane County, the authority to issue an order on Jan. 12 that set outdoor gathering limits at 50 people, limited most businesses to 50% capacity and effectively barred a number of high school sports.

The conservative Wisconsin Institute for Law and Liberty, which brought the suit, said it would appeal.

Three more orders have taken effect since the suit was filed, and the current one, Emergency Order No. 15, continued to loosen COVID-19 restrictions, including setting no limits on outdoor gatherings and allowing team sports to go ahead indoors and outdoors as long as no more than 350 people are gathered indoors. A new order goes into effect Wednesday that will even further loosen restrictions on gatherings and restaurants, bars and other businesses.
She wrote in her petition that Pofhal had recently been fired for a few things, including harassment, and had been sending her texts and emails threatening her and her family for several weeks. One message read times (sic) up and another warned he would ruin her sisters wedding, Walker wrote. He also sent her photos of her home, she wrote.

Pofahl declined to attend a hearing on the order, saying in a note to the court that he suffered from high blood pressure and diabetes and was afraid hed catch COVID-19 in the courtroom. A court commissioner granted the restraining order but did not prohibit Pofahl from possessing a firearm.

Its unclear if Walker was Pofahls target on Saturday night. Authorities said Pofahl was looking for a specific person when he arrived at the restaurant but that the person wasnt there. They didnt name that person.

Delain said again Monday that the attack was targeted, but he declined to elaborate beyond saying that investigators were looking into Pofahls relationships with former co-workers.
A 16-year-old was arrested in the shooting of another 16-year-old who was treated at a hospital for a gunshot wound on Friday, Janesville police reported.

At about 12:30 p.m. Friday, Janesville officers were called to Mercy Hospital on a report of a 16-year-old boy being treated for a gunshot wound, Sgt. Dean Sukus said in a report.

Investigators determined that the boy who was shot and two friends, 16 and 19, were visiting a residence in the 200 block of Linn Street and the 16-year-old friend was handling a handgun when it went off, Sukus said.

The bullet passed in and out of the victims flank/hip area, through a television and window, exiting the residence, Sukus said.

The handgun was not recovered due to lack of cooperation, Sukus said.

The boy who was shot was treated and released from the hospital, while the 16-year-old who was handling the gun was taken to the Rock County juvenile jail on tentative charges of first-degree recklessly endangering safety and possession of a dangerous weapon by a person under the age of 18, Sukus said.

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The city of Madison unveiled a public art installation on the Near West Side last month that ended up costing taxpayers significantly more than planned while delivering half as much.

On the other hand, people seem to like it.

Shift is made up of two 70-foot-long perforated weathered-steel sculptures spanning each side of the Highland Avenue underpass beneath Campus Drive. Lights installed behind them will shine through the perforations to create a shifting light mural that will serve as an interactive gateway between the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus, UW Hospital and Clinics and the Regent Neighborhood, according to a statement issued by the city April 23.

People who regularly walk the route had nice things to say about the new look last week.

Definitely have enjoyed walking past it the last few days and taking a look at all the different squares and trying to see the ... differences, said Rylee Doucette, a medical student at UW-Madison, who regularly uses the underpass. I think its a pretty cool addition.
The company insured the vast majority of school districts before Walkers Act 10 in 2011 blocked unions from negotiating over benefits. Today, the company insures about 100 school districts, making up roughly half of its 110,000 members, with state workers accounting for most of the other half through ETF, Humphrey said.

Weve been successful in working in both of those manners, he said.

School districts can already participate in ETFs program for local governments, which is separate from but similar to its state worker program. But only seven do, those in Darlington, Fennimore, Lancaster, Montello, North Cape, White Lake and the Cooperative Educational Service Agency 5 in Portage, according to the Legislative Fiscal Bureau.

Act 10 didnt require school district employees to pay 12% of their health insurance premiums, like state workers do, unless theyre insured through ETF. But Walker reduced school funding by an amount he said could be recouped by requiring employees to contribute more to health insurance and pensions.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administrations announcement Thursday that it was moving to ban the sale of menthol cigarettes and flavored cigars this year is not just the single most important step the federal agency has taken to reduce the deadly impact of tobacco use in the United States. Its also one that comes with significant racial justice implications.

How so? Though smoking has plummeted in the United States since its heyday in the mid-20th century, tobacco-related ailments are still the main cause of preventable death. And even while Black Americans smoke at lower rates than other ethnic groups, they are more likely to die from tobacco-related disease. And, finally, about 85% of Black Americans who smoke choose menthol cigarettes, which are easier to get hooked on and harder to quit.

If it sounds a bit nanny state-ish to ban an otherwise legal product used by consenting adults, consider this: In 2009, Congress gave the FDA authority to ban all other flavors in cigarettes, which it did to make these dangerous products less attractive to new smokers. But Congress stalled on menthols and asked for more study.
A group of Madisonians from the public and private sectors visited Higher Ground in St. Paul, Minnesota, on April 8, 2019. We toured this purpose built homeless shelter, knowing we needed to do a better job of caring for our homeless population in Madison.

We learned a tremendous amount from our visit and how we can do better and get this right. The group brought back what we learned and began planning for the operations.

Then came COVID-19, which pushed us forward more quickly. The city opened up the Warner Park Community center for the homeless, which allowed us to implement some of what we learned. The shelter moved to a temporary location on First Street, and now we are looking to move to a permanent location  to be determined.

We now have an opportunity to "do this right," and I encourage the Madison City Council to support our efforts at its meeting on Tuesday to have a purpose built shelter that will be able to provide services to those who need a home and a better life.

A great city is great only to the extent that all of its residents can flourish.

Susan Schmitz, Madison
Campus News

Dental professor provides assistance to refugees despite pandemic

Fuel is donated through the UB Global Miles for Smiles program and Multi Aid Programs (MAPs).

Fuel is purchased through the UB Global Miles for Smiles program and Multi Aid Programs (MAPs).

A nutritionist, hired through the UB Global Miles for Smiles program and MedGlobal, speaks to a classroom of students.

A nutritionist, hired through the UB Global Miles for Smiles program and MedGlobal, speaks to a classroom of students.

By MARCENE ROBINSON

Host communities and local governments almost collapsed under the pandemic, making life worse for vulnerable populations. I decided that UB Global Miles for Smiles should not stand still and wait for the pandemic to end to resume its services. 

A global pandemic could not deter UB professor Othman Shibly from delivering supplies and oral health care to Syrians who have become refugees or been displaced by the ongoing war in Syria.

Through the UB Global Miles for Smiles program, Shibly, clinical professor in the School of Dental Medicine, traveled to Lebanon April 2-11 to deliver critical oral health care and medical supplies, and to train community health care workers to provide dental care.

The mission follows an initiative he completed in January and February to deliver heating fuel throughout the winter to nearly 1,200 families in Lebanon, and 87 schools that enroll more than 31,000 children in northwest Syria.

The initiatives were supported by the Syrian American Medical Society Foundation, the Henry Schein Cares Foundation, Multi Aid Programs (MAPs), Ihsan Relief and Development, MedGlobal and MouthWatch.

During the pandemic, all of our dental missions ceased due to travel restrictions, but peoples needs do not stop, especially at this difficult time, says Shibly, who has traveled to Syria, Turkey, Jordan, Lebanon and Iraq to provide aid to refugees and displaced people since 2012.

Refugees and the internally displaced population in Lebanon and north Syria suffered the most during the pandemic and winter. Host communities and local governments almost collapsed under the pandemic, making life worse for vulnerable populations, he explains. I decided that UB Global Miles for Smiles should not stand still and wait for the pandemic to end to resume its services.

Given the current weather conditions, we have seen a spike in infectious diseases among children, causing them to miss school, says Bahaa El-Din Al-Jassem, director of the Al-Kalana School in Syria. Thanks to these heating supplies provided for classrooms, students are now able to come to school, finish the semester and stay warm in the face of unimaginable challenges.

During the pandemic, UB Global Miles for Smiles has:

Partnered with the Syrian American Medical Society Foundation and Ihsan Relief and Development to raise $100,000  $10,000 of which was provided by UB  to provide 145,000 liters of fuel to 87 schools in northwest Syria.

Worked with MAPS to donate food baskets and fuel to more than 2,300 refugee families in Lebanon.

With the support of MedGlobal, hired a nutritionist and additional community health care workers to provide oral health care at refugee camps in Lebanon. The team of health care workers supported by UB Global Miles for Smiles now numbers six, and includes a dentist, nutritionist and four community health care workers.

Through training, increased the efficiency of community health care workers to 70 patients treated per day, up from last years average of 40 patients per day.

Provided oral health care supplies to refugee camps that were donated by the Henry Schein Cares Foundation.

Received teledentistry technology from MouthWatch and the Henry Schein Cares Foundation to provide and evaluate dental care from abroad.

Received iPads from MAPS to assist with logging and monitoring patient oral health progress.

Created a patient referral system so that children with greater oral health care needs may receive free dental care at fully equipped dental clinics in nearby cities. Transportation is provided by MAPS.

The continued success of UB Global Miles for Smiles is gaining attention and support around the world.

MAPS aims to collaborate with the American University of Beirut to replicate the program, but with a focus on providing free vision and hearing care, eyeglasses and hearing aids for children who are refugees or have been displaced.

The Alliance for Oral Health Across Borders is helping expand care through UB Global Miles for Smiles to populations in Liberia and Uganda.
Q: Can space dust affect our atmosphere?

A: Space contains tons of dust. When dust particles approach Earth, they can be captured by gravity and enter the atmosphere at very high speeds.

Particles with diameters larger than about 2 millimeters undergo very rapid heating through collisions in our atmosphere. As they heat up, they can produce a short-lived trail of light known as shooting star. Most dust particles entering the atmosphere are estimated to be much smaller than this and dont provide a visible trail.

The dust aids with the formation of noctilucent clouds  the highest clouds in the Earths atmosphere  by providing a surface on which ice crystals can form. Noctilucent clouds develop during summer in the polar regions.

A micrometeorite is a small dust particle that reaches the Earths surface. They are a few tenths to hundredths of a millimeter in size. Antarctica is a good place to look for micrometeorites because of the low accumulation of snow and the virtual absence of ground dust. After a 20-year collection of extraterrestrial particles in Antarctica, a peer-reviewed publication estimates that every year over 5,000 tons of space dust fall on Earth. For reference, the average U.S. car weighs about 2 tons.
The majority (61.5 percent) of Idaho kindergarteners are in districts that offer either half-day or full-day kindergarten. Only 4.4 percent of students are in district that offer just half-day kindergarten.

Nampa School District has provided full-day kindergarten for students for two years. Teacher Terra Hyslop said having all the kindergartners every day has advantages, both academically and behaviorally.

Before moving to all-day kindergarten, lessons were crammed to help students meet academic standards, Hyslop said. Half-day students struggled to retain information, so teachers often repeated lessons.

Extra time provided through all-day offerings helps students build relationships with each other and with staff members, and streamlines her connection to students, Hyslop added. Were consistent now. They are seeing me every day. Theyre hearing my rules every day. Theyre seeing the other kiddos in the classroom every day.

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Districts and charters fund all-day kindergarten in unique ways

According to EdNews survey, 19 schools use general fund money to support all-day kindergarten. Seven others use a mixture of general funds and other sources, including funds from local supplemental levies, federal Title 1 dollars and private grants.
The CDC pausing and re-examining the safety of the Johnson and Johnson vaccine is proof that the health system is actively ensuring these vaccines are safe, Kern said.

We can see this is a very safe vaccine, and one of the most effective weve ever seen, Kern said.

One way to look at effectiveness is to consider the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in people who have been vaccinated. According to state data, there have been 200 reported breakthrough cases, which represents about 0.5% of all people fully vaccinated in the state.

But reaching people and communicating that message is difficult in communities where there is a lack of trust. Bodily said this is a challenge the public health district is taking on.

For example, there are disparities in the percentage of people getting vaccinated who live in cities compared to those getting vaccinated who live in more rural areas.

The farther from a city base you get, the less population that has been vaccinated, Bodily said.

This likely due to a multitude of factors, but one could be that public health offices and programs are less prevalent in rural areas. Bodily said, typically, public health offices and programs located near city centers.
Idaho started, decades ago, relatively well behind the bubble, and it has had a long way to catch up. (Montana, which had two congressional districts for 80 until the 1990 census, remained close to the bubble and crossed the line this time.) The other problem is this: Even a substantial percentage increase in population may result in a smallish increase, compared to larger states, in raw numbers, which is what matters for redistricting.

So, for this year, Idahos congressional redistricting wont be a hot topic of discussion, as it hasnt been for a long time. (It will be in Oregon, where a sixth district will be added, and the battle may be close and fierce over whether the states House delegation goes from its current 4-1 Democratic to 4-2 or 5-1; either outcome is plausible.) In Idaho, where Ada County long has been split between the two congressional districts, the only question has been where exactly in the city of Boise the line will be drawn. Neither Republican district has any realistic prospect for becoming competitive.

Hartgen: Some Outcomes from the Census, Legislative Session Theres plenty of not-so-good outcomes in the Idaho Legislative session as it ambles at a turtles pace across the highway of public discourse.

Looking ahead, the question for 2030 is where Idaho will be in relation to the bubbleand here we find basis for cautious optimism.
New mail process for Henry County jail

The envelope must have a complete, legible return address, including the senders first and last name, or the mail will not be scanned.

As soon as mail is received by the inmate, the inmate can respond immediately by sending an instant message through the secure messaging application on the inmate tablets. To start messaging with an inmate, ask the inmate to take the first step and send a message to a valid cell phone number. When the inmate sends the message, you will receive a text notification on your cell phone with a link to set up an account.
Entering the fifth month of a monumental task to vaccinate Americans, the term herd immunity often is tossed out as the ultimate goal of ending the pandemic.

And the herd instinct is generally to look at a national or state snapshot to gauge progress toward the 75% to 90% range many experts feel is needed to perhaps claim a victory over the virus.

However, researchers at the University of Virginia said there needs to be a laser focus at the community level.

And with the varying vaccination rates around the state, some areas of the commonwealth likely will reach immunity more quickly than others.

Thats why changing the language to community immunity may be more appropriate, a weekly report on the state of COVID-19 in Virginia said.

This emphasizes the fact that herd immunity is local, researchers at UVas Biocomplexity Institute wrote. Some communities may achieve it and safely return to normal, while others are still ravaged by COVID-19.

Based on vaccination rates  and general overall acceptance of getting those shots of protection  Northern Virginia may reach community immunity by June or July.
Rasouls showing isnt a surprise to those to have paid attention: Hes done the best job lining up support from various progressive groups on the left. He has also devoted an interesting amount of time to something that other candidates havent  campaigning in rural and Western Virginia. There may not be a lot of Democratic votes here, but margins still matter. Rasoul is playing a smart hand: If a multicandidate field splits the urban crescent, a candidate who has courted rural Virginia might really have an advantage. Rasoul may also be looking much further over the horizon: If he wins the nomination, some on the right would surely try to attack his Muslim faith. But how scary can a guy be if hes got his own bluegrass song? Has Rasouls strong showing alarmed the party establishment? And will that same establishment now be able to deliver for Ayala, who last week was still stuck at 2%? Well see.

3. How far right have Republicans gone? There once was a time when Kirk Cox would have been the obvious winner of the GOP nomination. For a party out of power to be able to field a former Speaker of the House  you cant buy that kind of gravitas. His endorsements by two former governors (George Allen and Bob McDonnell) would surely seal the deal. So would a campaign history that shows Cox has won in a district that now otherwise votes Democratic, a useful skill for a Republican nominee in a state that hasnt seen a Republican win statewide in 12 years. This isnt that time, though. Republican conventions always comprise a more conservative voting base than even a Republican primary. Given the Republicans ranked-choice voting method, there seems little danger that Amanda Trump in heels Chase will win the nomination. But businessmen Pete Snyder seems to be laying claim to a more conservative slice of the party than Cox is  with endorsements from Rep. Bob Good, former Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli, and other former Trump Administration officials. Another businessman, Glenn Youngkin, is a wild card with some impressive endorsements of his own, such as state Sen. Steve Newman, R-Lynchburg. Barring something truly bizarre, it seems likely that out of a seven-candidate field, the Republican nominee will be one of those three  Cox, Snyder or Youngkin. This years Republican convention will tell us a lot about where the soul of the Republican Party is in the post-Trump era  if, indeed, it really is the post-Trump era.
My great-grandmother Helen Hambrick was born in 1858 in Rocky Mount. Before she died on my fifth birthday in 1946, she told me how as a little girl she had to hide under quilts from the Yankees when they ransacked her house.

Helens father, Giles Hambrick, and his brother, Joseph, were recruited at the beginning of the Civil War by Col. Jubal Early to wage war on the federal government.

On Jan. 6, 2021, 160 years later, two other men of Rocky Mount, fellow police officers Jacob Fracker and Thomas Robertson, took part in a second insurrection against the government of the United States. Unlike their predecessors, they made it inside the Capitol and photographed themselves with obscene gestures in front of a marble statue. They were recruited by Donald Trump.

No ones motives can be fully understood, even by oneself. Peer pressure surely incited the passions of these men, along with the excitement of armed conflict and the thrill of marching off cheered by adoring crowds.

If pressed, both pairs of insurrectionists probably would have said their fight was about states rights, or local rights, or gun rights, about resistance to anyone from outside telling us what to do, a matter of protecting our way of life.
Credit: CC0 Public Domain

Globally, lung failure is one of the leading causes of death. Many conditions can affect and damage the lungs, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, influenza, pneumonia, and, most recently, COVID-19. To better understand respiratory diseases and develop new drugs faster, investigators from Brigham and Women's Hospital designed a 3D "lung-on-a-chip" model of the distal lung and alveolar structures, the tiny air sacs that take in oxygen as you breathe. With this innovation, researchers are actively studying how COVID-19 viral particles travel through airways and impact pulmonary cells. Notably, this technology enables scientists to investigate how various COVID-19 therapies, such as remdesivir, impact the replication of the virus. Their results are published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

"We believe that it is a true innovation," said Y. Shrike Zhang, Ph.D., associate bioengineer in the Brigham's Department of Medicine and Division of Engineering in Medicine. "This is a first-of-its-kind in vitro model of the human lower lung that can be used to test many of the biological mechanisms and therapeutic agents, including anti-viral drugs for COVID-19 research."

Understanding and developing treatments for COVID-19 requires human clinical trials, which are time- and resource-intensive. With better laboratory models, such as the lung-on-a-chip, researchers may be able to evaluate drugs much faster and help select the drug candidates most likely to succeed in clinical trials.

Zhang and colleagues developed this technology to mirror the biological characteristics of the human distal lung. Previous models have been based on flat surfaces and oftentimes made with plastic materials, which do not incorporate the curvature of the alveoli and are much stiffer than the human tissue. Researchers created this new model with materials more representative of human alveolar tissue and stimulated cell growth within these 3D spaces.

In testing the model's effectiveness, researchers found that the 3D alveolar lung effectively grew cells over multiple days and that these cells adequately populated airway surfaces. Through genome sequencing, scientists observed that the alveolar lung model more closely resembled the human distal lung than previous 2D models have. Additionally, the lung-on-a-chip model successfully stimulated breaths of air at the normal frequency for humans.

Beyond COVID-19, Zhang's research team intends to use this technology to study a broad range of pulmonary conditions, including various lung cancers. To replicate smoking's impact on the lungs, scientists allowed smoke to seep into the model's air chambers then simulated a breathing event, moving smoke deeper into the lungs. From there, they measured the smoke's impact and cell damage it caused.

While this innovation holds the potential to vastly expand the possibilities of studying and treating pulmonary diseases, this model is still in its early stages, said Zhang. Currently, the alveolar lung-on-a-chip only incorporates two out of the 42 cell types existing in the lung. In the future, researchers hope to incorporate more cell types into the model to make it more clinically representative of human lungs.

Going forward, Zhang also hopes to study how COVID-19 variants may travel through airways and impact pulmonary cells and COVID-19 therapies. He believes that using this model in tandem with other 3D organs, such as the intestines, could enable researchers to study how oral drugs impact cells in the lower lungs. Zhang also hopes that in the future, this technology could be implemented to urgently understand and develop treatments for emerging contagious diseases.

"In terms of COVID-19, we've had very minimal timelines for developing therapies. In the future, if we have these models ready in hand, we can easily use them to study and test therapeutics in urgent situations where clinical trials are limited," said Zhang.

Explore further New research may explain severe virus attacks on the lungs
A visitor kneels in front of the Last Judgement fresco by the Italian Renaissance painter Michelangelo inside the Sistine Chapel of the Vatican Museums on the occasion of the museum's reopening, in Rome, Monday, May 3, 2021. The Vatican Museums reopened Monday to visitors after a shutdown following COVID-19 containment measures. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

In an announcement sure to be welcomed by travelers worldwide, EU officials on Monday proposed easing restrictions on visiting the 27-nation bloc as vaccination campaigns across the continent gather speed.

Travel to the European Union is currently extremely limited except for a handful of countries with low infection rates. But with the summer tourist season looming, the bloc's European Commission hopes the new recommendations will dramatically expand that list.

The Commission hopes the move will soon allow travelers reunite with their friends and relatives living in Europe and support the bloc's economy this summer.

"Time to revive EU tourism industry and for cross-border friendships to rekindlesafely," European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said. "We propose to welcome again vaccinated visitors and those from countries with a good health situation."

Under the Commission's proposal, entry would be granted to all those fully vaccinated with EU-authorized shots. Coronavirus vaccines authorized by the European Medicines Agency, the bloc's drug regulator, include Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson. The EMA has not approved any vaccines from Russia or China as of yet but is looking at data for Russia's Sputnik V jab.

Visitors admire the Sistine Chapel of the Vatican Museums on the occasion of the museum's reopening, in Rome, Monday, May 3, 2021. The Vatican Museums reopened Monday to visitors after a shutdown following COVID-19 containment measures. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

EU nations could also individually decide to accept travelers immunized with vaccines listed by WHO for emergency use. The U.N. health agency has approved the same four vaccines as the EMA, and is expected to make a ruling soon on China's Sinopharm vaccine.

EU officials believe the bloc's COVID-19 vaccination campaigns will soon be "a game changer" in the fight against the deadly virus. Its proposal will be discussed with EU ambassadors this week and the Commission hopes it could start by June, once it is adopted by member states. Still, the recommendation is non-binding and EU countries will be entitled to keep travel restrictions in place if they want.

Commission spokesman Adalbert Jahnz said fully-vaccinated travelers coming from outside the EU should be allowed to visit Europe but insisted that the proposal's goal is not to exempt them from testing or quarantines upon arrival.

An employee wearing a mask to prevent the spread of COVID-19 stands inside a Raphael Room of the Vatican Museums on their reopening, in Rome, Monday, May 3, 2021. The Vatican Museums reopened Monday to visitors after a shutdown following COVID-19 containment measures. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

"This still remains very much in the hands of the member states," he said.

The Commission also proposed raising the threshold of new COVID-19 cases that is used to determine the countries from which all travel should be permitted.

"Nonessential travel regardless of individual vaccination status is currently permitted from seven countries with a good epidemiological situation," it said, proposing to increase 14-day cumulative COVID-19 infection rate per 100,000 inhabitants from 25 to 100.

"This remains considerably below the current EU average, which is over 420," it said.

It was unclear which countries would actually make the cut but an EU official who was not authorized to be quoted by name because the proposal has yet to be adopted said Israel would definitely be on the list.

"The UK, question mark, the U.S., for the time being, not quite," he said. "But we see how quickly the situation in the U.S. is evolving, notably for the rate of vaccination."

Visitors wearing masks to prevent the spread of coronavirus walks inside the Vatican Museum after it reopened, in Rome, Monday, May 3, 2021. The Vatican Museums reopened Monday to visitors after a shutdown following COVID-19 containment measures. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

In case the infection situation deteriorates in a non-EU country, the Commission proposed an "emergency brake" to stop dangerous virus variants from entering the bloc through quickly enacted travel limits.

EU officials and nations are also talking about introducing COVID-19 certificates aimed at facilitating travel across the region this summer. The documents, sometimes called coronavirus passports or green certificates, would be given to EU residents who can prove they have been vaccinated, can provide a negative coronavirus test, or prove they have recovered from COVID-19.

"Until the digital green certificate is operational, member states should be able to accept certificates from non-EU countries," the Commission said, adding that unvaccinated children should be able to travel with their vaccinated parents if they provide a negative PCR test.

A visitor admires a Raphael Room inside the Vatican Museums on their reopening, in Rome, Monday, May 3, 2021. The Vatican Museums reopened Monday to visitors after a shutdown following COVID-19 containment measures. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

People visit the Rialto bridge in Venice, northern Italy, Saturday, May 1, 2021. Italy is gradually reopening after six months of rotating virus closures allowing outdoor dining. (Filippo Ciappi/LaPresse via AP)

A waiter works in a restaurant in Venice, northern Italy, Saturday, May 1, 2021. Italy is gradually reopening after six months of rotating virus closures allowing outdoor dining. (Filippo Ciappi/LaPresse via AP)

A waiter works in St. Mark's Square in Venice, northern Italy, Saturday, May 1, 2021. Italy is gradually reopening after six months of rotating virus closures allowing outdoor dining. (Filippo Ciappi/LaPresse via AP)

Dutch customers eager for their first drink of coffee or something stronger at a cafe terrace have flocked to outdoor seating as the Netherlands' lockdown eased in Utrecht, Wednesday, April 28, 2021. The Netherlands became the latest European country to begin cautiously relaxing its lockdown even as infection rates and intensive care occupancy remain stubbornly high. The Dutch follow Italy, Greece, France and other European nations in moving to reopen society and edge away from economically crippling lockdowns in the coming weeks.(AP Photo/Peter Dejong)

Dutch customers eager for their first drink of coffee or something stronger at a cafe terrace have flocked to outdoor seating as the Netherlands' lockdown eased in Utrecht, Wednesday, April 28, 2021. The Netherlands became the latest European country to begin cautiously relaxing its lockdown even as infection rates and intensive care occupancy remain stubbornly high. The Dutch follow Italy, Greece, France and other European nations in moving to reopen society and edge away from economically crippling lockdowns in the coming weeks. (AP Photo/Peter Dejong)

Dutch customers eager for their first drink of coffee or something stronger at a cafe terrace have flocked to outdoor seating as the Netherlands' lockdown eased in Utrecht, Wednesday, April 28, 2021. The Netherlands became the latest European country to begin cautiously relaxing its lockdown even as infection rates and intensive care occupancy remain stubbornly high. The Dutch follow Italy, Greece, France and other European nations in moving to reopen society and edge away from economically crippling lockdowns in the coming weeks.(AP Photo/Peter Dejong)

Guests queue, bottom, to take their seats at spaced out terrace tables in Utrecht, Netherlands, Wednesday, April 28, 2021. The Netherlands became the latest European country to begin cautiously relaxing its lockdown even as infection rates and intensive care occupancy remain stubbornly high. The Dutch follow Italy, Greece, France and other European nations in moving to reopen society and edge away from economically crippling lockdowns in the coming weeks.(AP Photo/Peter Dejong)

Greece, which is heavily reliant on tourism, has already lifted quarantine restrictions for the U.S., Britain, Israel, and other non-EU countries. On Saturday, Hungary loosened several COVID-19 restrictions for residents with government-issued immunity cards, given to those who have had one vaccine dose or recovered from COVID-19.

People with the plastic cards could enter indoor dining rooms, hotels, theaters, cinemas, spas, gyms, libraries, museums and other recreational venues in Hungary.

The whole issue of COVID-19 passports is fraught in many parts of the world, with critics saying they discriminate against people in poorer nations or younger people who do not have access to vaccines in many countries. The Hungarian government moved ahead with its own certificates because it has been inoculating people with a variety of vaccines, including jabs from China and Russia that have not been approved by the EMA.

Explore further Follow the latest news on the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak

 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Credit: The Army Research Laboratory

A new medical technology stops traumatic bleeding without requiring wound compression for Soldiers on the battlefield. Hemorrhaging is a leading cause of preventable death for Soldiers in combat.

The simplicity, potential for deployability and proposed affordability of this technology under development allows Soldiers to carry a life-saving solution in their pocket.

Through a project funded by the Defense Health Agency Small Business Innovation Research, or SBIR, program, Hybrid Plastics, the University of Mississippi Medical Center, Vanderbilt University and Ichor Sciences developed StatBond, which treats uncontrolled bleeding from noncompressible areas of the body that include the groin, trunk, armpit, neck and internal organs. Currently, there is no battlefield treatment for such bleeding because these injuries are not responsive to the compression dressings currently carried by Soldiers and medics.

The Defense Health Agency supported the research and development of this device as a part of an SBIR contract, with technical oversight provided by the Army Research Laboratory, an element of the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command, known as DEVCOM.

"This technology provides a new capability to stop bleeding under austere conditions," said Dr. Robert Mantz, a chemistry branch chief with ARL at its Research Triangle Park location. "It's encouraging to see the potential applications of breakthrough basic science research being put into the hands of Soldiers."

A new medical technology, StatBond stops traumatic bleeding without requiring wound compression for Soldiers on the battlefield. Hemorrhage is the leading cause of preventable death for Soldiers.

The research team identified that visco-liquid hemostatic agents could be an alternative treatment to compression. The liquid characteristic provides for deep penetration into a wound channel, and the immediate suppression of fluid loss.

"The breakthrough nature of the device lies in the ability of the hemostatic gel to flow deeply into penetrating wounds, and immediately seal against fluid loss, thereby allowing the natural blood clotting cascade to happen against the surface of the gel," said Dr. Joe Lichtenhan, vice president of Technology, Hybrid Plastics, a Mississippi-based nanotechnology company. "It is really remarkable this device works without compression. It offers the potential for Soldiers to self-treat or to provide non-medic buddy care."

The technology behind the development is based on proprietary silicon-like formulations developed by Hybrid Plastics. The Royal Society of Chemistry journal Dalton Transactions (2017) published preliminary findings of their research.

The research team finds that visco-liquid hemostatic agents could be an alternative treatment to compression. The liquid characteristic provides for deep penetration into a wound channel, and the immediate suppression of fluid loss.

In addition to treating traumatic bleeding injuries, StatBond can also be used to treat lung punctures, eye injuries, burn wounds and prevent infection. Bleeding may not be associated with these types of injuries, but they all commonly have a need to prevent fluid loss and maintain tissue viability. For these injuries, Statbond seals the damaged tissue against further fluid loss while retaining oxygen transport to the injury, which aids in tissue preservation and supports the natural healing process and tissue regeneration.

Statbond is undergoing FDA registration and packaging development. For civilian use, it will be packaged in syringe form while warfighters are anticipated to be provided the device in the form of a durable pocket carry squeeze pack.

In contrast to the basic research programs managed by ARO, this program focuses primarily on feasibility studies leading to prototype demonstration and productized testing for specific applications. The SBIR program funds research and technology development with small businesses using a three-phase process.

With the success of Phase I and II, the Army awarded the research team a Phase III contract to the team to further mature the technology. As part of the award, the team will advance the device's manufacturing readiness level to pilot line capability and the Department of Defense will conduct medical investigations on its performance and potential for deployability for treatment of battlefield polytrauma.

"We are committed to bringing advanced medical technology and devices to the wounded warfighter," Lichtenhan said. "We anticipate the technology will become available for use by physicians in 2022 and potentially carried by soldiers by 2025."

Explore further US Army gives combat medics new type of tourniquet

More information: Joseph D. Lichtenhan et al. The thrombogenic activity of POSS silanols, Dalton Transactions (2017). Journal information: Dalton Transactions Joseph D. Lichtenhan et al. The thrombogenic activity of POSS silanols,(2017). DOI: 10.1039/c7dt00487g
Credit: CC0 Public Domain

More than 25% of the world's population (greater than 1.5 billion people) face the burden of soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections, a species of intestinal parasite whose eggs develop in the soil before finding a new host. The main cause of this high infection rate is lack of access to adequate sanitation facilities (toilets) and the consequent contamination of the environment with human feaces. While universal access to adequate sanitation is one of the sustainable development goals, parasite burdens are still causing harm. Fortunately, deworming medicines are highly effective and safe. Researchers from Syracuse University, the World Health Organization, and SUNY Upstate measured the impact of deworming medicine during pregnancy on the subsequent risk of neonatal mortality and low birthweight. The study has been conducted on 95 Demographic Health Survey data collected on more than 800 000 births and the results are published on the current issue of PLoS Neglected Tropical Diseases

When women receive deworming medicine during pregnancy, we find two specific benefits for the baby: first, the risk of neonatal mortality (a baby's death within the first 4 weeks of life) decreases by an estimated 14%; second, the odds of low birthweight are an estimated 11% lower in countries with lower transmission of soil-transmitted helminths. These results vary somewhat by transmission rate across different countries.

Given the low cost of deworming medicine and fundamental health advantages, these findings call for an increased global effort toward widescale distribution of deworming medicine for pregnant women. Global effort toward reducing STH infections is affordable, and the benefits far outweigh the program costs.

A recent study has found that mothers receiving deworming treatment during pregnancy reduce by 14% the risk of their child dying within the first four weeks after birth. Another benefit is that treating pregnant women with anthelminthic medicines can avoid low birthweight.

The study, conducted on 95 Demographic Health Survey datasets and collected on more than 800 000 births, utilized birth histories to measure the impact of routine deworming medicine during antenatal care on subsequent neonatal mortality and low birthweight for births between 1998 and 2018 in 56 lower income countries.

"Pregnant women who received deworming medication were associated with a 14% reduction in risk for neonatal mortality, with no difference between high and low transmission countries," said Bhavneet Walia of the Department of Public Health, Syracuse University, New York, U.S.. "We also found that in countries with low transmission of soil-transmitted helminths, deworming treatment decreased the odds of low birthweight by 11%, although these somewhat varied in relation to transmission rates across different countries."

Routine deworming during antenatal care decreases risk of neonatal mortality and low birthweight: a retrospective cohort of survey data' (to hyperlink) authored by Syracuse University, the World Health Organization (WHO) and SUNY Upstate is published in the journal, PLoS Neglected Tropical Diseases.

The researchers matched births on the probability of receiving deworming during pregnancy. They then modelled birth outcomes with the matched group to estimate the effect of deworming during antenatal care after accounting for various risk factors. They also tested for effect modification of soil-transmitted helminth prevalence on the impact of deworming during antenatal care.

"Intestinal worms impact the health of women and girls of reproductive age and this study supports the fact that treating pregnant women can be beneficial," said Dr. Antonio Montresor, Medical Officer, WHO Department of Control of Neglected Tropical Diseases. "WHO has long recommended the deworming women of reproductive age after their first trimester of pregnancy and in areas where the prevalence of worm infections is 20% or higher."

Soil-transmitted helminths2 are transmitted by ingesting microscopic eggs that are passed in the faeces of infected people and disperse in the environment. Adult worms live in the intestines where they produce thousands of eggs each day. In areas that lack adequate sanitation, these eggs contaminate the soil.

More than 1.5 billion people, or 24% of the world's population, are infected with soil-transmitted helminths. Infections are widely distributed in tropical and subtropical areas, with the greatest numbers occurring in sub-Saharan Africa, the Americas, China and East Asia.

Approximately 688 million girls and adult women of reproductive age live in areas which are endemic for intestinal worms, in more than 100 countries. The greatest number is found in sub-Saharan Africa, the Americas and Asia where reinfection is frequent in areas of high transmission.

WHO coordinates shipment of donated medicines to countries requesting them. They are then distributed freely by national disease control programs during mass treatment campaigns.

Periodic deworming should be available to children and to all pregnant women in endemic countries.

Deworming is not the only answer, however. A permanent solution can only be obtained by a substantial improvement in access to sanitationa process that is normally slow and expensive.

Explore further Mass deworming greatly reduces helminth prevalence among children

More information: Bhavneet Walia et al. Routine deworming during antenatal care decreases risk of neonatal mortality and low birthweight: A retrospective cohort of survey data, PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases (2021). Journal information: PLoS Neglected Tropical Diseases Bhavneet Walia et al. Routine deworming during antenatal care decreases risk of neonatal mortality and low birthweight: A retrospective cohort of survey data,(2021). DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009282
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

The Covax global programme, which has relied heavily on AstraZeneca vaccines, said on Monday it has struck a deal to buy 500 million doses of Moderna's COVID-19 jabs.

The doses will broaden out the portfolio of vaccines under Covax, which seeks to ensure poor countries have equitable access to vaccines to combat the pandemic.

Moderna are expected to start supplying Covax in the final quarter of 2021, with 34 million doses available before the end of the year, the Covax scheme's co-leader Gavi announced in a statement.

A further 466 million doses of the two-shot vaccine will follow in 2022.

Covax is co-led by the World Health Organization (WHO), the Gavi vaccine alliance and the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI).

"We are very pleased to sign this new agreement with Moderna, giving Covax facility participants access to yet another highly efficacious vaccine," said Gavi chief executive Seth Berkley.

"Expanding and having a diverse portfolio has always been a core goal for Covax, and to remain adaptable in the face of this continually evolving pandemicincluding the rising threat posed by new variants."

The deal also contains options for potential access to future versions adapted to variants of the virus.

Under Covax, the cost of vaccines for the 92 poorest participating economies is covered by donors. The scheme aims to distribute enough doses to jab up to 27 percent of the population in those territories by the end of 2021.

Dozens of wealthier participating countries also buy vaccine supply through the facility with collective purchasing.

Swift deal

Covax vaccines must have authorisation from the WHO.

The UN health agency signed off on the Moderna product on Friday, making the US vaccine the fourth jab to be given WHO's emergency listing after Pfizer-BioNTech, Janssen and AstraZeneca doses made in India and South Korea.

Only AstraZeneca and some Pfizer jabs are currently flowing through the Covax scheme.

Covax has so far shipped more than 49 million COVID-19 vaccine doses globally to 121 participating economies.

"We recognise that many countries have limited resources to access COVID-19 vaccines," said Moderna chief executive Stephane Bancel, welcoming the agreement.

"We support Covax's mission to ensure broad, affordable and equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines and we remain committed to doing everything that we can to ending this ongoing pandemic."

Moderna said last week it expected to produce up to three billion doses in 2022 through new funding commitments to boost supply at manufacturing sites in Europe and the United States.

The Moderna jab is already in use in 46 territories around the world, according to an AFP count.

Delays and donations

Covax's main supplier is the Serum Institute of India, which is producing AstraZeneca vaccines. But increased demand for doses in India itself, where the pandemic is raging, has interrupted supplies being flown out for Covax.

The programme has also been elbowed out of the market by rich countries striking their own deals with manufacturers and surging ahead in immunising their citizens.

The facility urgently needs 20 million doses by the end of June to cover the supply shortage and has been pleading with wealthy countries to donate excess doses.

Sweden, which since March 25 is only using the AstraZeneca jab for over-65s, on Monday donated one million paid-for doses of the vaccine.

"Such support will ensure that people in vulnerable countries, especially, in Africa, will be able to receive their second doses," WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said in a statement.

Countries including France and New Zealand have made similar donations recently.

At least 1.165 billion COVID-19 vaccine doses have so far been injected worldwide, according to an AFP count.

Just 0.2 percent have been administered in the 29 lowest-income countries, home to nine percent of the global population.

Explore further Follow the latest news on the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak

 2021 AFP
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Individuals living with severe Alzheimer's disease showed remarkable improvements in behavior and cognition within days of receiving an innovative new treatment that delivered low doses of radiation, a recent Baycrest-Sunnybrook pilot study found.

"The primary goal of a therapy for Alzheimer's disease should be to improve the patient's quality of life. We want to optimize their well-being and restore communication with family and friends to avoid social isolation, loneliness and under-stimulation. Although the study was a small pilot and should be interpreted with caution, our results suggest that low-dose radiation therapy may successfully achieve this," says Dr. Morris Freedman, scientist at Baycrest's Rotman Research Institute, head of the division of neurology at Baycrest and senior author of the study.

The study was a clinical follow-up to a 2015 case report about a patient in hospice with Alzheimer's disease. After being treated several times with radiation to her brain, she showed such significant improvements in cognition, speech, movement and appetite that she was discharged from the hospice to a long-term care home for older adults.

High doses of radiation are known to have harmful effects on our health. However, low doses, such as those used for diagnostic CT scans, can help the body protect and repair itself.

"Numerous neurological disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, are thought to be caused in part by oxidative stress that damages all cells, including those in the brain. We have natural protection systems to combat the damage, but they become less effective as we get older. Each dose of radiation stimulates our natural protection systems to work harderto produce more antioxidants that prevent oxidative damage, to repair more DNA damage and to destroy more mutated cells," says Dr. Jerry Cuttler, a retired Atomic Energy of Canada scientist. He has been researching the effects of radiation on health for more than 25 years and is the lead author of the study.

In this study, published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, four individuals living with severe Alzheimer's disease were given three treatments of low-dose radiation, each spaced two weeks apart. A CT scanner at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre was employed to provide the treatments, with the supervision and support of Dr. Sandra Black, senior scientist and neurologist, and Dr. Sean Symons, radiologist-in-chief, both at Sunnybrook. The researchers used standardized tests and observation to record changes in the patients' communication and behavior after the treatment. Most importantly, they collected information (descriptions, photos and videos) from the patients' spouse, children and caregivers.

Remarkably, three of the four individuals showed improvements within one day of the first treatment, with their relatives reporting increased alertness and responsiveness, recognition of loved ones, mobility, social engagement, mood and more.

Two days after the first treatment, the son of one of the patients reported, "When I said hello, she looked at me and said, 'Hello dear.' She hadn't said this to me in years!"

The daughter of another patient noted: "I had an amazing visit with my dad this evening. I'm speechless from last night. He was excited to see mehe spoke to me right away and gave me multiple kissesreal kisses like years ago. He was clapping his hands to the music. My mom agreed it's been years since he has done this. Everyone is amazed."

The results of this study offer hope for those with severe Alzheimer's disease and their loved ones. However, it is important to note that this was a small pilot study with some limitations, including missing a placebo group. Future research is needed to examine the effects of this novel therapy in larger clinical trials.

Explore further New research finds exercise may help slow memory loss for people living with Alzheimer's dementia

More information: Jerry M. Cuttler et al, Low Doses of Ionizing Radiation as a Treatment for Alzheimer's Disease: A Pilot Study, Journal of Alzheimer's Disease (2021). Journal information: Journal of Alzheimer's Disease Jerry M. Cuttler et al, Low Doses of Ionizing Radiation as a Treatment for Alzheimer's Disease: A Pilot Study,(2021). DOI: 10.3233/JAD-200620
Credit: CC0 Public Domain

New research shows that patients who have had contact with the hospital due to serious glandular disease have a greater risk of subsequently developing depression. The study from iPSYCH is the largest yet to show a correlation between glandular fever and depression.

The vast majority of Danes have had glandular feveralso called mononucleosisbefore adulthood. And for the vast majority of them, the disease can be cured at home with throat lozenges and a little extra care. But for some, the disease is so serious that they need to visit the hospital.

A new research result now shows that precisely those patients who have been in contact with the hospital in connection with their illness, have a greater risk of suffering a depression later.

"Our study shows that it is associated with a forty per cent greater relative risk of developing depression, if the patient has been in contact with a hospital due to glandular fever," says Professor and Research Director Michael Eriksen Benros from the Mental Health Centre, Copenhagen, the University of Copenhagen and Aarhus University, who is behind the study.

Demonstrates a correlation

The risk was considerable for up to four years after the infection.

"It is well-known that mononucleosis infection can cause long-term fatigue afterwards, and we can now see that there is also an increased risk of developing actual depression, which requires contact with the hospital. Fortunately, this was only the case for 1 out of 35 with mononucleosis infection within the study's follow-up, he says.

The study is a register-based study which has followed 1,440,590 Danes, of whom 12,510 had contact with the hospital due to glandular fever, and of these, 358corresponding to three per centsubsequently developed depression that required hospital contact.

"Previous studies of the correlation between glandular fever and subsequent depression have primarily been small studies and the correlation has therefore been unclear. This study is the first major study able to demonstrate the correlation with a subsequent risk of depression with great statistical strength," says the lead author of the study, Nina Vindegaard from the Mental Health Centre, Copenhagen.

Affects young people

Glandular fever affects young people aged 10-25 years in particular, and symptoms include fatigue, pain in the neck, fever and swollen lymph nodes on the neck, often accompanied by fatigue in the months following. It is also often young people who come into contact with the hospital because their symptoms are serious.

"This knowledge is importantboth for the patient and their parents, but also to a great extent for general practitionersas there is an increased risk of depression after the infection," explains Nina Vindegaard.

According to Michael Eriksen Benros, part of the explanation for the increased risk may be that the brain is affected by the infection:

"We know that mononucleosis infection can lead to long-term fatigue, but the actual underlying mechanisms for how this happens to a greater extent for this particular infection compared to many other infections haven't been identified. The general hypotheses are that it happens through activation of the immune system, which may also lie behind the increased risk of depression," he says.

Background for the results

The register-based study followed 1.44 million Danes born between 1977-2005, with 12,510 of these having had contact with the hospital contact with mononucleosis. Mononucleosis infection was associated with a forty percent increased relative risk of subsequently developing depression. Relative risk is the risk of an undesired outcome in the treatment group divided by the same risk in the control group.

Explore further Non-severe infections can cause serious mental disorders

More information: Nina Vindegaard et al, Infectious mononucleosis as a risk factor for depression: A nationwide cohort study, Brain, Behavior, and Immunity (2021). Journal information: Brain, Behavior, and Immunity Nina Vindegaard et al, Infectious mononucleosis as a risk factor for depression: A nationwide cohort study,(2021). DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2021.01.035
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Symptoms of health anxiety are common already during childhood and adolescenceand if the children do not receive the correct help, the anxiety can become a permanent problem with serious personal and socio-economic consequences. This is shown by a new research result from Aarhus University and the University of Copenhagen.

Ida is 11 years old. Six months ago, her grandmother died of cancer after a long illness and since then Ida has become more and more anxious that she too will get cancer and die. The anxiety can be triggered when she passes by a hospital or sees people who look ill. She needs reassurance from her parents many times a day and she has also begun to involve the adults at school. Her parents have taken Ida to the doctor several times, hoping that this will help, but Ida's worries and anxiety begin again shortly after the doctor's appointment.

Ida's story is not unusual. A new study shows that symptoms such as excessive concern about having a serious disease, often called health anxiety, are already common in childhood and adolescence. The study was carried out by researchers from Aarhus University and the Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Department, Aarhus University Hospital, in collaboration with the University of Copenhagen and the Research UnitChild and Adolescent Mental Health Centre, the Capital Region of Denmark.

"Most people experience periods when they are worried about having a serious physical illness. If the anxiety becomes excessive and persistent, they can develop into actual health anxiety or hypochondriasis. There is a great need for more focus on health anxiety in children and adolescents, including developing more specialized psychological treatment, which already exists for adults with health anxiety," explains Clinical Professor and Medical Doctor Charlotte Rask, who is the senior researcher behind the study.

Anxiety can excerpt a hold on the young people

Almost 1,300 children from the Danish Copenhagen Child Cohort 2000 population study were examined for health anxiety at ages 11 and 16. The majority of children with many symptoms of health anxiety at age 11 had decreasing symptoms, but the researchers found a worrying pattern among a small group of approx. 1.3 per cent of the adolescents who had persistent and significant problems with health anxiety up to the age of 16.

"In addition to having many symptoms of health anxiety, this group also used two to three times as many resources at general practitioners and medical specialists, compared to the young people who only had a few symptoms of health anxiety. This finding may be worrying, as this type of disease- and contact behavior may actually perpetuate the young persons' health anxiety, in so far as the behavior can only briefly alleviate the health worries they have, but doesn't solve their underlying problems with anxiety," says Martin Rimvall, medical doctor and the principal author behind the study.

Charlotte Rask elaborates: "There is a very close correlation between anxiety, increased attention on the body and how symptoms are experienced. However, it's rarely the symptoms in themselves, but the health concerns that follow, which are the primary burden for people with health anxiety. This is often not discovered, as fluctuation in various symptoms and the fear of overlooking a serious illness can keep the person in a maladaptive pattern of repeated contacts with own GP and examinations in the hospital system," says Charlotte Rask.

Parents play a special role

GPs and medical doctors can therefore unconsciously maintain the health anxiety, as the patient may easily think that he/she would not be referred to further medical examinations if there was nothing to worry about.

"Parents play a special role in the case of children and adolescents, by either helping to stop excessive GP visits or by helping to support them," she says.

The study, which has just been published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, also shows that children with recognized physical illness at the age of 11 have a particular increased risk of developing symptoms of health anxiety later in adolescence.

"Greater awareness among health professionals of the psychological consequences of physical illness in children and young people can therefore provide us with an important potential for prevention," says Charlotte Rask.

Anxiety during the pandemic

Other population studies have shown that over the past decade health anxiety has become an increasing problem in the general populationand according to the researchers, this can be attributed to an increased media focus on serious illness and easily accessible online information. In line with these findings, there are now also studies which suggest that health anxiety is an increasing problem during the Covid-19 pandemic.

"As our study shows that health anxiety may already be an important problem among children and adolescents even before the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic, there are now even more reasons to focus on the young people's mental health and, in particular, health anxiety," says Martin Rimvall.

Copenhagen Child Cohort 2000:

Copenhagen Child Cohort 2000 is a research project that examines children's development from birth to adolescence. The objective is to gain knowledge that can be used to prevent some of the most common health problems in children and adolescents.

Health anxiety or illness anxiety:

Health anxiety or disease anxiety is a disorder in which a person is predominantly plagued by the fear of having or contracting a serious illness. Often it is the thought of cancer, heart disease or a neurological disease which causes this fear. But it can also be other diseases. In the same way as some people suffer from claustrophobia, others can suffer from anxiety. The anxiety about diseases often revolves around the experience of new symptoms and bodily sensations.

For a person with health anxiety, it is the thoughts about a disease and the anxiety in itself that is the problem. It is usually not the physical symptoms themselves that are so concerning.

Background for the results

The study is a population study of 1,278 children born in the year 2000 in the former Copenhagen County.

Explore further COVID-19 triggers OCD in children and young people

More information: Martin K. Rimvall et al, Continuity of health anxiety from childhood to adolescence and associated healthcare costs: a prospective populationbased cohort study, Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry (2020). Journal information: Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry Martin K. Rimvall et al, Continuity of health anxiety from childhood to adolescence and associated healthcare costs: a prospective populationbased cohort study,(2020). DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.13286
Immuno-fluorescent staining of the human Airway Chip reveals that the airway cells growing there develop numerous structures that are specific to lung cells, including cilia (yellow) and a membrane protein called ZO-1 that keeps cells attached to each other (purple). Credit: Wyss Institute at Harvard University

A Wyss Institute-led collaboration spanning four research labs and hundreds of miles has used the Institute's organ-on-a-chip (Organ Chip) technology to identify the antimalarial drug amodiaquine as a potent inhibitor of infection with SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.

The Organ Chip-based drug testing ecosystem established by the collaboration greatly streamlines the process of evaluating the safety and efficacy of existing drugs for new medical applications, and provides a proof-of-concept for the use of Organ Chips to rapidly repurpose existing drugs for new medical applications, including future pandemics. The research is reported in Nature Biomedical Engineering.

While many groups around the world have been testing existing drugs for efficacy against COVID-19 using cultured cells, it is well known that cells grown in a dish do not behave like the cells in a living human body, and many drugs that appear effective in lab studies do not work in patients. The Wyss team examined eight existing drugs, including hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine, that they and others had found were active against SARS-CoV-2 in conventional cell culture assays.

When tested in their more sophisticated microfluidic Lung Airway Chip, which had been infected with a pseudotyped SARS-CoV-2 virus, they found that most of these drugs, including hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine, were not effective. However, another antimalarial drug, amodiaquine, was highly effective at preventing viral entry. These results were then validated in cultured cells and in a small animal model of COVID-19 using infectious SARS-CoV-2 virus. Amodiaquine is now in clinical trials for COVID-19 at multiple sites in Africa, where this drug is inexpensive and widely available.

"The speed with which this team assembled, pivoted to COVID-19, and produced clinically significant results is astonishing," said senior author and Wyss Institute Founding Director Don Ingber, M.D., Ph.D. "We started testing these compounds in February 2020, had data by March, and published a preprint in April. Thanks to the openness and collaboration that the pandemic has sparked within the scientific community, our lead drug is now being tested in humans. It's a powerful testament to Organ Chips' ability to accelerate preclinical testing."

From mysterious disease to lead compound in months

In the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic when little was known about the novel SARS-CoV-2 virus, efforts were made around the globe to identify existing drugs that could be repurposed to treat patients who were falling ill. While early data performed on cells grown in lab dishes seemed to suggest that the antimalarial drugs chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine could treat the disease, later studies showed that they aren't active against SARS-CoV-2 in animals or patients, and the quest for an effective oral therapeutic that can both treat and prevent COVID-19 continues.

Fortunately, the Wyss Institute had a ready-made solution to that problem. In a move that today seems prescient, over three years ago the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) and National Institutes of Health (NIH) awarded funding to Ingber's team to explore whether its human Organ Chip microfluidic culture technology, which faithfully mimics the function of human organs in vitro, could be used to confront potential biothreat challenges including pandemic respiratory viruses.

Two years into the project, the team was making steady progress using its lung Airway Chip to study drugs that could be repurposed to treat influenza virus infections. Then, in January 2020, first authors Longlong Si, Ph.D. and Haiqing Bai, Ph.D. heard about cases of what was being called a novel viral pneumonia in China.

"That caught a lot of scientists' attention, because any new virus could become a global threat given how easily infections spread in today's era of widespread international travel. We closely followed the updates because we thought that our Airway Chip model could provide an important tool for studying this virus," said Si, a Wyss Technology Development Fellow and co-lead author. Once it became clear that people were falling ill due to the mysterious COVID-19 and not pneumonia, the team quickly shifted its focus to the novel SARS-CoV-2 virus.

The human Airway Chip that the Wyss team developed for these studies is a microfluidic device about the size of a USB memory stick that contains two parallel channels separated by a porous membrane. Human lung airway cells are grown in one channel that is perfused with air, while human blood vessel cells are grown in the other channel, which is perfused with liquid culture medium to mimic blood flow. Cells grown in this device naturally differentiate into multiple airway-specific cell types in proportions that are similar to those in the human airway, and develop traits observed in living lungs such as cilia and the ability to produce and move mucus. Airway Chip cells also have higher levels of angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE2) receptor protein, which plays a central role in lung physiology and is used by SARS-CoV-2 to infect cells.

"Our biggest challenge in shifting our focus to SARS-CoV-2 was that we don't have lab facilities with the necessary infrastructure to safely study dangerous pathogens. To get around that problem, we designed a SARS-CoV-2 pseudovirus that expresses the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, so that we could identify drugs that interfere with the spike protein's ability to bind to human lung cells' ACE2 receptors," said Bai, who is a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Wyss Institute and co-lead author. "A secondary goal was to demonstrate that these types of studies could be carried out by other Organ Chip researchers who similarly have this technology, but lack access to lab facilities required to study highly infectious viruses."

Armed with the pseudovirus that allowed them to study SARS-CoV-2 infection, the team first perfused the Airway Chips' blood vessel channel with several approved drugs, including amodiaquine, toremifene, clomiphene, chloroquine, hydroxychloroquine, arbidol, verapamil, and amiodarone, all of which have exhibited activity against other related viruses in previous studies. However, in contrast to static culture studies, they were able to perfuse the drug through the channels of the chip using a clinically relevant dose to mimic how the drug would be distributed to tissues in our bodies. After 24 hours they introduced SARS-CoV-2 pseudovirus into the Airway Chips' air channel to mimic infection by airborne viruses, like that in a cough or sneeze.

Only three of these drugsamodiaquine, toremifene, and clomiphenesignificantly prevented viral entry without producing cell damage in the Airway Chips. The most potent drug, amodiaquine, reduced infection by about 60%. The team also performed spectrometry measurements with the assistance of Steve Gygi, Ph.D.'s group at Harvard Medical School to assess how the drugs impacted the airway cells. These studies revealed that amodiaquine produced distinct and broader protein changes than the other antimalarial drugs.

The researchers had a lead drug candidate.

All hands on deck

Despite the promise of amodiaquine, the team still needed to demonstrate that it worked against the real infectious SARS-CoV-2 virus. With the help of a new COVID-19-focused grant from DARPA, Ingber teamed up with Matthew Frieman, Ph.D. at the University of Maryland School of Medicin and Benjamin tenOever, Ph.D. at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, both of whom already had biosafety labs set up to study infectious pathogens.

This collaboration created a drug discovery ecosystem that combines the human emulation capability of the Wyss Institute's Organ Chips with Frieman's and tenOever's expertise in the interactions between viruses and their host cells. The Frieman lab tested amodiaquine and its active metabolite, desethylamodiaquine, against native SARS-CoV-2 via high-throughput assays in cells in vitro, and confirmed that the drug inhibited viral infection.

The human Airway Chip recreates the interface of the human lung's airways and blood vessels, allowing researchers to study how different drugs and pathogens like viruses affect lung function. Credit: Wyss Institute at Harvard University

In parallel, the tenOever lab tested amodiaquine and hydroxychloroquine against native SARS-CoV-2 in a head-to-head comparison in a small animal COVID-19 model, and saw that prophylactic treatment with amodiaquine resulted in ~70% reduction in viral load upon exposure, while hydroxychloroquine was ineffective. They also saw that amodiaquine prevented the transmission of the virus from sick to healthy animals more than 90% of the time, and that it was also effective in reducing viral load when administered after introduction of the virus. Thus, their results suggest that amodiaquine could work in both treatment and prevention modes.

"Seeing how beautifully amodiaquine inhibited infection in the Airway Chip was extremely exciting," said Frieman. "And, the fact that it seems to work both before and after exposure to SARS-CoV-2 means that it could potentially be effective in a wide variety of settings."

"This collaboration has allowed us to do things that we never would have had the resources to do otherwise, including recently setting up Organ Chips in our own lab so that we can now use them to study the interactions between infectious viruses and their hosts. While we're proud of what we've accomplished so far for COVID-19, we're also looking forward to studying additional virus-host dynamics using the Organ Chips in the hopes that we'll be able to prevent or address future pandemics," said tenOever, who is a Professor of Microbiology.

A preprint of the amodiaquine results was published online on April 15, 2020, which generated buzz in the scientific community. It eventually caught the eye of Medicines for Malaria Venture, a leading product development partnership in antimalarial drug research. These results, along with studies from several other groups, contributed to amodiaquine's inclusion in a clinical trial in collaboration with the University of Witwatersrand in South Africa and Shin Poong Pharmaceutical in South Korea last fall. A few months later, the Drugs for Neglected Diseases Initiative (DNDi) added amodiaquine to the ANTICOV clinical trial for COVID-19, which spans 19 sites in over 13 different countries in Africa. Amodiaquine is oral, extremely inexpensive, and widely available in Africa. If proven effective in these clinical trials, it could provide a badly needed weapon against COVID-19 in low-resource nations where access to vaccines and expensive new therapeutics is limited.

Preparing for the next pandemic

While the identification of amodiaquine is a major boon in fighting COVID-19, the team already has their sights set on future pandemics. In addition to SARS-CoV-2, their recent publication details their success in finding drugs that could protect against or treat several strains of influenza virus.

"Thanks to our experience using this drug development pipeline to validate amodiaquine for COVID-19, we are now applying what we learned to influenza and other pandemic-causing pathogens," said co-author Ken Carlson, Ph.D., a Lead Senior Staff Scientist who helps lead the Coronavirus Therapeutic Project Team at the Wyss Institute. "This process has given us confidence that Organ Chips are predictive of what we see in more complex living models of viral infections, and helped harness the creative cauldron of the Wyss Institute to consolidate and strengthen our therapeutic discovery engine."

In addition to influenza, the team is now exploring drugs that could be used against the new SARS-CoV-2 mutant strains, to suppress the dangerous "cytokine storm" that leads to many hospitalizations, and to relieve the symptoms of COVID-19 "long haulers."

"The pandemic has really gelled the Wyss Institute's Bioinspired Therapeutics development program, and linking up with the Frieman and tenOever labs has created a drug discovery and development pipeline that dramatically speeds up the whole process, quickly shepherding COVID-19 drugs through preclinical development to the point where they can be tested in humans. With Organ Chip technology in hand, we are now in a stronger position to confront future pandemics," said Ingber, who is also the Judah Folkman Professor of Vascular Biology at Harvard Medical School and Boston Children's Hospital, and Professor of Bioengineering at the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences.

Explore further Using induced pluripotent stem cells to find new drugs for COVID-19

More information: A human-airway-on-a-chip for the rapid identification of candidate antiviral therapeutics and prophylactics, Nature Biomedical Engineering (2021). DOI: 10.1038/s41551-021-00718-9 , Journal information: Nature Biomedical Engineering A human-airway-on-a-chip for the rapid identification of candidate antiviral therapeutics and prophylactics,(2021). DOI: 10.1038/s41551-021-00718-9 , dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41551-021-00718-9
A 3-D human 'mini brain' containing nerve-wires (red) wrapped in specialised myelin insulation (green). Oligodendicytes are white. Credit: University of Edinburgh

Tiny 3D models that mimic vital aspects of the human nervous system have been developed in a step that could accelerate drug research for neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis (MS).

The millimetre-wide modelscreated using stem cells from human skin sampleswill be used to study myelin, an insulating substance that helps nerve cells communicate with each other.

Researchers say the models are the most natural representation of human myelination developed in a lab and are a promising platform for studying neurological diseases and for testing drugs for conditions linked to myelin loss, including MS.

Nerve cells are found in the brain and the spinal cord and connect to each other with branch-like links called axons, which have an insulating coat similar to electric cabling. This insulating coat is called myelin, and it aids the electrical and chemical information flow between cells.

Damaged myelin underlies a number of neurological conditions including MSan incurable disease affecting more than 100,000 people in the UKand leads to a wide range of symptoms, including mobility issues, fatigue and vision problems.

Scientists at the University of Edinburgh's Anne Rowling Regenerative Neurology Clinic and the Euan MacDonald Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research developed their human myelin model using skin samples donated by volunteers.

Skin cells were reprogrammed into induced pluripotent stem cells, which can be turned into other cell typesin this casespinal cord cells.

These cells were then grown slowly into organoids3D structures of cell bundles including neurons and distinctive brain cells known as oligodendrocytes that are key to creating myelin.

Crucially, the researchers were able to see myelin developing spontaneously around the axons between cells within the organoids.

By looking at the axons under a microscope, they could see that the myelin in this model was functioning as it would in a healthy brain or spinal cord.

The research team then created an organoid using stem cells from a patient with a rare gene mutation that affects myelination. The model showed that key aspects of this cell bundle were consistent with the disease.

These new models will allow scientists to compare the differences between the cells of healthy individuals and those with different neurological diseases and to test drugs of interest in human cells before using them in a full clinical trial with patients.

The researchers hope that their model will overcome the challenges of studying the human brain and nervous system at the cellular level, which is extremely difficult due to problems accessing brain and spinal cord tissue without risk and huge inconvenience to patients.

The approach complements animal models, which can be limited in how they reflect human disease and the way that drugs interact with human cells.

The authors say the model is a significant step forward in the study of human myelination and drug development, but caution that treatments tested on this model are still some way from being offered to patients.

The study was funded by the Euan MacDonald Centre and is published in the journal Developmental Cell. The research was carried out in collaboration with the UK Dementia Research Institute and the MS Society Centre for MS Research at the University of Edinburgh.

Lead researcher, Dr. Owen Gwydion James, said: "Demyelinating disorders have a profound effect on the quality of life for patients. Now we have the capability of studying human myelination experimentally, a major goal is to identify drugs that can promote myelination. We believe that this new approach could be a huge boost to the toolbox that allows us to do this effectively."

Explore further Researchers generate a brain cell type crucial to support neural activity
YEREVAN.  The first meeting of the customs subcommittee under the Armenia-European Union (EU) Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement (CEPA) took place in an online format.

The parties touched upon the priorities related to the customs sphere between Armenia and the EU, the State Revenue Committee of Armenia informed NEWS.am.

The new editions of the Eurasian Economic Union and the EU customs codes were discussed, too.

At the meeting, reference was made also to the practice of customs administration within the EU.

The parties expressed readiness to take active steps to further expand this collaboration.
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When North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper gave his State of the State speech to a joint session of the General Assembly on Monday, April 26, it was a historic evening. But what was historical about it was never highlighted by Cooper  not a word in his speech.

Senate President Pro-Tempore, Phil Berger tweeted:

"Gov. Cooper delivered his State of the State speech tonight.

"An indication of how far North Carolina has come is Mark Robinson, our State's first black Lt. Governor, presiding over tonight's event.

"And an indication of how far the North Carolina Democratic Party has to go is the Democratic Governor's failure to recognize Lt. Gov. Robinson during his speech."

The omission was egregious when you think about it, especially since Cooper removed Confederate monuments on the Capitol lawn, marched alongside protestors after the death of George Floyd, made statements in support of Black Lives Matter, and even brought up the issue of racism in his State of the State speech. Moreover, Cooper is a Democrat, supposedly the Party that genuinely cares about the black race. Yet, nothing in North Carolina history has ever occurred like what happened on that Monday evening  a duly elected black man presided over an entire branch of our State's government  to hear the Governor's State of the State speech  and there was not the first acknowledgment of Robinson's achievement for himself or the race he honorably represents.

Did the media point out the exclusion? As expected, not a word.

One can only surmise as to why. But it seems apparent it's because Robinson doesn't fit the liberal narrative. He's not the kind of minority that helps their cause. Robinson is a black political and social conservative who is a Republican and forthright about his Christian faith. Perish the thought  a person with those colors is perceived as both a rebuke and a threat to the liberal's worldview. That status won't even get you honorable mention in the halls of power with Leftists like Gov. Cooper, even if you are the first black Lt. Governor in the State's history.

Race, race, race. It's seemingly almost all we hear about from the Left these days. But when Democratic politicians, like Cooper, overlook, ignore, and diminish great men such as Mark Robinson, it seems to confirm the suspicion that race is being wielded as a political weapon.

Robinson knows it. He recently said, "Far too long liberals and the media have lied to the black community and used them as political pawns."

In testimony before a House subcommittee hearing on the Voting Rights Act and supposed voter discrimination, Robinson referenced one of the most iconic moments in civil rights history  that moment when four American black college students sat at a whites-only lunch counter at Woolworth's in Greensboro, North Carolina. Robinson said:

"Just a few days ago, the vice president [Kamala Harris] went and visitedthe lunch counter in Woolworth's to see the place where history was changed. You know who wasn't invited to be with her? My good friend and civil rights icon Clarence Henderson. The person whose picture is in the history books, the person who actually sat in the chair and endured to make sure that black voices were heard."

Why wasn't Henderson invited to stand with the vice president? Henderson is a native North Carolinian. The answer is simple, like Robinson, he too is a black political and social conservative who is a Republican and forthright about his Christian faith. Perish the thought. No invitation for Henderson!

Understand me; I believe racism still raises its ugly, demonic head. Anytime it does is too often. Nevertheless, I agree with Tim Scott, the black Congressman from South Carolina, who recently said in his rebuttal to President Biden's nationally televised speech: "America is not a racist country." In other words, racism doesn't define us, despite the claims of those who say it does.

As James Daane has eloquently written in Baker's Dictionary of Christian Ethics:

Racial "differentia are incidental and relative to what constitutes authentic humanity. When these relative differences are turned into absolutes, race turns into racismWhen a feature of race incidental to our humanity is absolutized, the race processing this feature exalts itself as a superior race, develops the consciousness that it is the historic bearer of a transcendent destiny to lead the world, by whatever required means, into its future."

Of course, this Christian understanding of racism would also be an admonishment against something like Critical Race Theory, which asserts those who condemn racism are defined as oppressors when they belong to the wrong (white) group.

White, black, and all minorities need to get wise to the Left's hypocrisy on race. Racism is real, but nefarious forces are manipulating many, turning us into useful idiots, and in doing so, they're jeopardizing the advances already made on race. They would ignore the Mark Robinsons, the Tim Scotts, and the Clarence Hendersons of our nation. In fact, they really don't care who is marginalized, black, white, Asian, or Hispanic, as long as their agenda to redefine Western Civilization is ultimately achieved.
YEREVAN.  My son was at the front line of the sector where we suffered the most losses. Acting Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated this at Monday's session of the National Assembly of Armenia, referring to the defeat in the Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) war last fall.

According to him, there was a young volunteer next to his son at the said front line, he was his son's friend, and he had died on the spot as a result of a landmine explosion. No one could decide who should dieor my son. That person's name is there, and that fact can be verified.

Yes, we were fighting desperately; and sorry for the comparison, but we were fighting like the Armenian people were fighting in the Battle of Avarayr, in Sardarapat, and I have dozens of such examples," said the acting prime minister.

Pashinyan assured that he did not try to make his son go into hiding, and did not create safer and more favorable conditions for him to serve in the army.

Also, the acting premier complained that he and his government, unlike the Armenian authorities 100 years ago, did not have as broad powers that, if necessaryand without any consequences for themthey could quickly put the panic-mongers against the wall for the firing squad.
Such appropriate and inappropriate discussions on the countrys national security put the country more at risk. This is what deputy of the My Step faction of the National Assembly of Armenia Vladimir Vardanyan told reporters today.

I wont answer any question about national security, he said and asked whether those who talk about national security have ever been to the border in Syunik Province.

Vardanyan urged reporters to not try to weaken the Armenian army and refuted the news that Stepanakert might also be transferred to Azerbaijan, adding that the former Human Rights Defender of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) also released news about this. How can Stepanakert be transferred to Azerbaijan? People in Baku are listening to these questions and are being motivated. There is no such thing! Vardanyan said.
UNEMPLOYMENT among young people in South Oxfordshire has risen sharply during the coronavirus pandemic.

The number of 16- to 24-year-olds claiming job-related benefits has increased by more than 200 per cent in the past year.

Research by the Princes Trust shows that the under-25s account for three in five of the people who lost jobs during the crisis.

At the same time, many graduates who left university last summer have struggled to find work and this summer a fresh cohort of graduates will join the jobs market.

They include 24-year-old Ella Shearman, of Milton Close, Henley, who graduated from Kingston School of Art in June with the hope of realising her long-held ambition of a career in fashion.

Competitive to get into at the best of times, the industry is even tougher to find a job in as a result of covid.

Its really hard to get a job to start with, so graduating and hearing that no one is hiring is really scary and just doubles that feeling that theres no place for you, says Ella.

My graduate show was cancelled and this is usually the first opportunity to get hired by talent scouts from the industry.

With shops closed, the industry has been tightening its belt and with talk of a recession coming, jobs and opportunities just arent there. Its all quite overwhelming really. Ella, a former Trinity primary and Gillotts School pupil, is no stranger to work, having had her first job at 15.

I did childminding twice a week and babysitting at weekends, she says. I have worked at the Bull on Bell Street and as a pattern-cutter for Collier & Robinson, who make regatta blazers. I love being busy.

Even while at university, Ella juggled her studies with a part-time job at Waitrose.

I love the socialisation that comes with work as well as the independence of being able to earn money to travel and see friends, she says.

Ella studied English, biology, art and textiles at The Henley College before going to university. Her degree course took her to America and the Netherlands.

She says: I was abroad for about nine months, first when I was studying in San Francisco, then five months in Amsterdam. It was the best year of my life.

It was on her return to the UK last year and while studying for her final exams during the first national lockdown that Ella first began to feel the impact of the pandemic.

Unable to find a part-time job and struggling to pay her London rent, she applied for Universal Credit.

She says: It felt so surreal that after all those years working towards my degree, this is what I was resorted to. The money took about two months to actually start coming through but when it did it really was a lifeline.

Ella no longer qualifies for state support now shes living back at home with her parents Richard and Rema and brothers Teal and Tait but says the support she has received from her family has been invaluable.

I dont know how I would have coped without them, even though I must drive my mum mad, she says.

James Hudec has been applying for graduate jobs and professional trainee schemes in the data industry for more than a year  so far without success.

Born and bred in Henley, he attended Trinity, Gillotts and Sir William Borlases Grammar School in Marlow.

He studied science and maths at A-level before going on to the University of Exeter where he achieved a second class degree in physics last summer.

James, 22, says: Ive applied for more than 60 jobs and rarely even get a reply, let alone an offer of an interview. Employers are just inundated.

He is now back living at home in Western Road with his parents Nick and Delia and younger brother Ed.

He previously worked as a waiter at Henley Royal Regatta and as a helper at the Henley Outdoor Playscheme.

More recently, he worked part-time at Phyllis Court Club until it closed for the third national lockdown.

It takes its toll, he says. Its not just the job situation, its the impact of the pandemic in other ways too.

There have been long periods of low motivation and a lack of confidence as a result of these circumstances, not just for me but for young people more generally.

Professor Lee Major, an associate of the London School of Economics and professor in social mobility, says the pandemic has hit the younger generation particularly hard.

He says: Nothings as big as this has been seen since the Eighties.

If you suffer unemployment when youre relatively young in your career, it can have really big consequences for your future  we call it economic scarring.

It means youre less likely to earn as much on average and less likely to stay in jobs.

Prof Major is backing calls for the Government to introduce a job guarantee scheme to help young people get their first step on the employment ladder.

He says: The long-term costs of unemployment are so big.

Prof Major adds that its a good idea for those waiting for a graduate-level job to take work at a more basic level.

It still has lots of benefits, he says. Getting out and doing something is extremely important. Youll learn something from whatever you do. All experience is valuable.
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ANAHEIM, Calif.  Police arrested a 64-year-old man this week in connection with a 1980 cold case where a woman was found dead in her Southern California apartment, officials said Friday.

Andre William Lepere was arrested Wednesday in New Mexico on suspicion of the murder of 79-year-old Viola Hagenkord in Anaheim, police said in a news release.

A neighbor discovered Hagenkords body on Feb. 18, 1980, after entering the elderly womans apartment because she hadnt been seen for two days, police said, which was unusual because she was well known throughout her apartment complex community.

Authorities determined Hagenkord had been sexually assaulted and she died of asphyxiation, according to the Los Angeles Times.

Lepere faces charges of first-degree murder with a special-circumstance allegation of rape by the Orange County district attorneys office, the newspaper reported. Lepere is being held without bail in New Mexicos Otero County pending extradition proceedings. It was not immediately clear if he had an attorney who could speak on his behalf.

Cold case homicide detectives reopened Hagenkords case in September and DNA evidence pointed to Lepere as a suspect, the LA Times reported.

Lepere had lived near Hagenkord and worked as a truck driver and plumber, the newspaper reported. Police said its unclear if Lepere had a direct relationship with Hagenkord, noting that detectives havent determined a motive.

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Former Associate Editor of The Horseman And Fair World, Gordon Waterstone, has been hired as a freelance Editorial Specialist to assist the U.S. Trotting Association with editorial contributions to Hoof Beats and Youth Beats magazines, the newsroom on the USTA's website, content for the Harness Racing Fan Zone, social media and other projects.

Were excited to have Gordon on board; hes an excellent addition to the team, said USTA Director of Marketing and Communications Dan Leary. Hes a Hall of Famer, two-time Hervey Award winner and a former track publicity director who has a wealth of writing experience, extensive knowledge about the industry and a vast network of contacts within it.

And obviously, his relationships with Kathy (Parker) and the rest of the USTA Communications Department team will allow him to hit the ground running.

In his new role, Waterstone reunites with his former colleague Kathy Parker, who was named the new editor of Hoof Beats on March 12.

I was unsure which of the many avenues to pursue when The Horseman closed, but it led to this great opportunity, said Waterstone. Im excited to add another chapter in my career in harness racing and looking forward to working with a team I have long respected.

I am very grateful to others who reached out to me as a possible landing spot, but the USTA was the best fit and I want to thank Mike Tanner, Dan Leary and everybody at the USTA for this opportunity.

Prior to The Horseman And Fair World, which he joined in June 1998, Waterstone worked in publicity at Hazel Park in Michigan. He served as assistant publicity director from 1979 to 1981 when he was promoted to director and remained in that role through 1996.

In addition to his induction into the Communicators Hall of Fame in 2017 and two John Hervey Awards (1999, 2008) for excellence in harness racing journalism, Waterstone was named U.S. Harness Writers Associations USHWAn of the Year (2014), won the Harness Horsemen International Clyde Hirt Media Award (2002), the USHWA Presidents Award (2001) and the Harness Publicists Associations Allen J. Finkelson Golden Pen Award (1995). He was also the recipient of the Michigan Harness Horsemens Association Appreciation Award twice.

A current member of the USHWA Hall of Fame Screening Committee, Waterstone served as that organizations president from 2004 to 2006 and was also president of the Harness Publicists Association in 1999.

Wendy Ross assumes new role as Social Media Content Manager

Wendy Ross, who joined the U.S. Trotting Association on May 23, 2018, will assume the newly created position of Social Media Content Manager beginning on May 3. She previously served as Social Media and Public Relations Coordinator.

Wendy really stepped up during the past year with some creative ideas and ways to help promote harness racings major races, events and participants when the USTA and harness racing industry faced some unprecedented challenges, said Leary. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly altered the way that our social media team operated because we were restricted from our normal traveling and on-site coverage.

In addition, she successfully took on additional responsibilities involving our social media strategy and its execution with changes that we had in staffing.

In her role as the on-air talent for the USTAs coverage of harness racing, she has become an even more familiar face in the industry adding to her work at The Meadowlands, Tioga Downs, Northfield Park, The Meadows, and The Little Brown Jug.

(USTA)
Brussels proposes to ease restrictions for tourism Von der Leyen, time to revive industry

(ANSAmed) - BRUSSELS, MAY 3 - The European Commission is proposing to member States to ease current restrictions on nonessential travel (including tourism) within the EU, taking into account progress made in vaccination campaigns and worldwide developments in the epidemiological situation.



Brussels proposed to allow entry in the Union for nonessential reasons only to people coming from countries with a good epidemiological situation, as well as all people who had the last recommended dose of a vaccine authorized by the EU, according to a note by the executive of the Union.



"It is time to revive the tourism industry and for cross-border friendships to rekindle - safely. We propose to welcome again vaccinated visitors and those from countries with a good health situation", European Commission President Ursula Von der Leyen wrote on Twitter on Monday. "But if variants emerge we have to act fast: we propose an EU emergency brake mechanism".



(ANSAmed).




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MEXICO CITY  Mexicos congress voted Friday to impeach the current governor of the border state of Tamaulipas on charges of tax evasion, money laundering and organized crime.

But the state legislature in Tamaulipas, a cartel-plagued state across from Texas, voted not to recognize the action by the federal congress and reaffirm Francisco Garcia Cabeza de Vaca as governor. His term ends next year.

It is unclear if the state legislatures move would hold up in courts. It seemed likely the issue could go to the Supreme Court.

The lower house of the federal congress voted earlier Friday to remove Cabeza de Vacas immunity from prosecution, a process similar to impeachment. He is the latest in a string of Tamaulipas governors accused of wrongdoing or corruption.

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Garcia Cabeza de Vaca is a leading member of the opposition National Action Party, which claimed the charge were part of a campaign by President Andres Manuel Lopez Obradors Morena party to win votes in the June 6 midterm elections.

The vote is part of a political propaganda operation by the Morena government to try to win the elections, National Action said in a statement.

Prosecutors claim he owns a large number of luxury properties that it says dont match the income from his government jobs over the last 20 years. Garcia Cabeza de Vaca has denied the charges.

Mexicos agency for curbing money laundering, the Financial Intelligence Unit, said in a report to Congress earlier this year that Garcia Cabeza de Vaca earned about $2 million in wages and $1 million in other income since 2000, but acquired properties worth many times that. It also mentioned properties owned by the governor or his relatives in Texas.

The agency also said front companies used by the Sinaloa drug cartel had passed money through the same company that assisted in purchasing one of Garcia Cabeza de Vacas luxury apartments. But the agency did not say it has any direct evidence of links between the governor and the cartel.

In a video in March, the governor said the agency used data and speculations that are notoriously false in drawing up its report. None of the homes that were shown in the report belong to me, he said.

Garcia Cabeza de Vaca also said, I have no links to organized crime.

But Garcia Cabeza de Vaca speculated his brushes with the federal government had angered Lopez Obradors administration. He is among the National Action Party governors who have staked out opposition policies on the coronavirus pandemic and other issues.

He noted that his Gulf coast state is a leading site of wind farms, an energy source that Lopez Obrador has proposed reducing in favor of fossil fuels.

They must be very upset over the way we publicly exposed them, the governor said, referring to an incident in December when the federal power utility  a pet agency of the president  acknowledged it had falsified a document in an effort to excuse a widespread blackout that month.

The Federal Electricity Commission denied the Dec. 28 outage was the result of incompetence. Instead, it said, a brush fire in Tamaulipas had caused a kind of short-circuit that led to a two-hour blackout that affected one-fourth of the countrys customers.

The utility published a supposed report of a brush fire in an area beneath power pylons that it claimed caused the blackout. But Tamaulipas officials maintained that the document, purportedly issued by a state civil defense office, was forged. The utility at first denied that, but later admitted the report was false.

Garcia Cabeza De Vaca has governed Tamaulipas since 2016. Organized crime groups have long had deep roots in the state and numerous politicians have been implicated in dealings with them.

Former Gov. Tomas Yarrington of the Institutional Revolutionary Party was extradited to the U.S. from Italy in 2018 to face drug trafficking charges. U.S. officials also have tried to extradite the governor who succeeded Yarrington in 2005, Eugenio Hernandez, to face money laundering charges.

The leading candidate to follow Hernandez in 2011, Rodolfo Torre Cantu, was assassinated while campaigning for office.
General Assignment Reporter

Chris Mays is a general assignment reporter for the Brattleboro Reformer. He has been with New England Newspapers Inc. since 2012.
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Nine more weeks. Roughly 60 more days. About 1,500 hours.

Thats what it comes down to after living under a public health threat that has killed more than 4,000 New Mexicans, put tens of thousands of our residents out of work and locked hundreds of thousands of our kids out of schools.

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grishams announcement Wednesday that she plans to fully reopen the state in nine weeks is the light at the end of the tunnel weve all yearned for. At last weve got a path out of this pandemic, thanks to many New Mexicans responsible mask-wearing and social distancing, as well as our high vaccination rates. Kudos to all those New Mexicans who have taken one or two shots for the team  and for themselves, their friends, their co-workers, their neighbors, their fellow parishioners and their families.

The governor said Wednesday the state expects 60% of adults will be fully vaccinated by June 30. New Mexico has been among the nations leaders in getting shots in peoples arms. Currently, about 42% of adults are fully vaccinated and about 58% are partially vaccinated. Lujan Grisham said if we meet the 60% target, the state would finally jettison its color-coded maps showing how many people can eat inside a restaurant in county A, how many can have a picnic in county B or how many can go to the movies in county C.

Some cities and states are offering incentives to get vaccinated. Detroit is offering $50 to people who give others a ride to vaccination sites. West Virginia is giving $100 savings bonds to people between 16 and 35 who get shots. Private businesses are offering free doughnuts, free food, free beer, even joints for jabs in New York City and Washington.

At some point soon the question will become what constitutes an emergency and whether we should still be under one. But were not there yet. We need reluctant New Mexicans to get vaccinated. Starting Monday, New Mexicans age 16 and up can schedule a vaccine  go to https://cvvaccine.nmhealth.org. Anyone hesitant should talk to their doctor, who has their medical history and best interests in mind. Its disturbing that the state is only ordering 75% of the vaccines its allotted by the federal government, down from 100%, because thats all it can use.

ADVERTISEMENTSkip



................................................................

Our long COVID-19 nightmare could soon be over. And the sooner New Mexicans get fully vaccinated, the sooner well be able to establish our new normal lives.

Take your shot

WHAT: The city of Albuquerque and Federal Emergency Management Agency are sponsoring walk-in clinics May 3-15. No appointment or insurance is needed. Shots are available to anyone 18 and older, while supplies last. Masks are required.

WHEN: Clinic hours are noon-7 p.m. on Monday-Friday and 9 a.m.-2 p.m. on Saturday. The city of Albuquerque and Federal Emergency Management Agency are sponsoring walk-in clinics May 3-15. No appointment or insurance is needed. Shots are available to anyone 18 and older, while supplies last. Masks are required.Clinic hours are noon-7 p.m. on Monday-Friday and 9 a.m.-2 p.m. on Saturday. WHERE: City lot at Eastern Avenue and Palomas Street SE, May 3-8; John Marshall Health and Social Services Center 1500 Walter SE, May 10-15.

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.
CORK County Council has published its Draft Cork County Development Plan, 2021, and is encouraging people to have their say on the document which sets out the vision for the future of the county from 2022 to 2028.

The plan was developed by the local authority following a period of consultation which included, but was not limited to, public consultation events, meetings with stakeholders and service providers, written submissions, briefing sessions for elected members, and a pre-draft public consultation.

The draft plan has been described as a critical one for guiding how Cork will develop and, across more than 4,000 pages of the document, ambitious plans for growth for the county are outlined with plans for population growth of 61,000 and the delivery of almost 30,000 new housing units over the six-year period.

It also sets out to deliver employment-led growth by delivering 36,500 jobs in rural and urban areas; and has identified over 2000ha of employment lands.

What is the plan?

The new draft County Development Plan sets out targets and objectives for the future of Cork in seven different volumes, with separate reports looking at how North Cork, South Cork and West Cork should be developed in the period from 2022 to 2028.

Carrigaline-based Fianna Fail representative, Cllr Seamus McGrath, explained that the plan is somewhat different to previous County Development Plans.

It comes around every six years, but this year we are combining the local area plans with the county development plan. Going forward it will be under the one document, he explained.

Gillian Coughlan, a Fianna Fail councillor for the Bandon-Kinsale MD (Municipal District), described the plan as a really important facet of the cycle of local government.

It is a chance for us to stand back, look at our communities, look at our towns and villages, and plan ahead, she said.

She noted that that plan is somewhat circumscribed by larger plans such as the Southern Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy and the National Planning Framework, but said this global view is a positive thing.

Whats included?

Separate volumes deal with the main policy material as well as heritage and amenity, environmental reports and maps.

The South Cork volume sets out plans for development in the Carrigaline MD, Cobh MD, East Cork MD, and Macroom MD over the six-year period.

The West Cork volume sets out the plans for development in the Bandon Kinsale MD and West Cork MD from 2022 to 2028.

The North Cork volume looks at plans for the Fermoy MD and Kanturk Mallow MD over the six-year period.

Population and housing targets

It is estimated that the population of Cork county in 2019 was around 332,015 with further growth expected in the period up to 2022.

The plan anticipates population growth of around 61,000 people up to 2028 with significant new housing units needed to provide for this increase.

The draft plan says these housing units will be delivered across the whole of county Cork, at locations in County Metropolitan Cork, what is described as the Ring and county towns, key villages, and villages and rural areas.

It is intended to deliver 3,526 of those units on brownfield/infill/existing built footprint sites with 18,487 units on zoned lands within main towns and key villages over 1,500 population.

A balance of 7,339 units will be accommodated in the key villages, smaller villages, and rural areas, with 2,094 in the key villages (with less than 1,500 population), 1,340 in the villages and 3,905 in the rural areas outside development boundaries.

The County Metropolitan Cork Strategic Planning Area has a population target of 125,839 by 2028 with different targets for each of the towns, villages and areas with the overall area.

The target population for Carrigtwohill, for example, for 2028 is 13,486. The town had a population of 5,080 in the 2016 Census.

The population target for Cobh is 17,452 which will require delivery of 1,730 new households.

The target for Midleton is 21,108 (3,302 new households needed) and for Carrigaline it is 20,501 which will require the delivery of 2,344 new households.

A population target of 12,600 is set-out for the key villages with over 1,500 population which incorporates Crosshaven and bays, Cloyne, Kilumney/Ovens, Whitegate/Aghada, and Glounthaune.

Separately, a population target of 4,000 (to 2031) is set for Monard which will require the delivery of 1,342 new households (to 2031).

The Greater Cork Ring Strategic Planning Area meanwhile has a population target of 141,584.

A target population of 56,687 is set out for the main towns in the Greater Cork Ring Strategic Planning Area, which encompasses Bandon, Kinsale, Fermoy, Macroom, Mallow and Youghal with 1,371 new households needed in Mallow 1,012 in Bandon, and 822 units needed in both Fermoy and Kinsale.

A population target of 6,008 is set out for the key villages with populations over 1,500 in this area, namely Castlemartytr, Rathcormac, and Watergrasshill, while the population target for the key villages is 10,490.

The North Cork Strategic Planning Area has a population target of 58,733 while the West Cork Strategic Planning Area has a population target of 66,772.

Jobs targets

A 36,548 target for growth in jobs is put forward in the county from 2020 to 2028 with 18,772 of these jobs in the metropolitan area, 9,968 in the Greater Cork Ring area, 4,279 in the North Cork area, and 3,529 in the West Cork area.

The Plan supports a concentration of economic and employment development primarily within the main towns to bring balance across the county and improve the level of employment choice.

It says that Metropolitan Cork will continue to be the biggest jobs market in the county and development plan polices will continue to support the growth of employment in the metropolitan area so it can fulfil its role as an international location of scale, a complement to Dublin, and the primary driver of growth in the southern region.

Within the County Metropolitan Area, Carrigtwohill, Little Island, Ringaskiddy, and Whitegate are identified as strategic employment locations suitable for large-scale employment development and the plan also commits to protecting them from inappropriate development that may undermine their suitability as Strategic Employment Locations or give rise to potential conflicts between different land uses.

These four areas have retained their roles as locations for FDI companies (Foreign Direct Investment ) that required large stand-alone premises.

Marino Point is identified as a Specialist Employment Centre and the plan notes it is well placed to play a key strategic enabler role for the Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy in providing for the relocation of existing industrial uses from docklands and other strategic urban sites within the Cork Metropolitan Area in order to facilitate regeneration and redevelopment of such sites to help deliver compact growth and placemaking.

Placemaking and public realm

improvements

There is a significant focus in the plan on placemaking and ensuring towns and villages are places where people choose to live, work and visit by making our towns and villages more attractive, vibrant and liveable places.

Throughout the documents, objectives are set out for developments to enhance local areas such as plans for a new town park in Carrigaline including provision of playing pitches, plans to complete the development of the Midleton to Youghal Greenway, and developing riverside walks in Bandon.

Cllr John Paul OShea, a Fine Gael representative for the Kanturk-Mallow MD, said that these enhancements have an important purpose.

In the area where I am, theres a huge amount of services and enhancements proposed over the six-year period. The number of housing developments is the first issue, but we also have to make sure that that [the plan addresses] the quality of life issue, that if people move to the likes of Charleville or Newmarket or Kanturk that they can enjoy all quality of life as well as being in the area, he said.

An ambitious plan

The plan has been described as ambitious and this is something which councillors say is certainly the case.

Its important for local authorities to be ambitious because we have to be ambitious to encourage development and the advancement of our area. Any plan that isnt ambitious, to me is a plan thats not worth reading, said Cllr OShea. Its important that we are ambitious, that we strive towards meeting those targets. We think weve come up with a good balance in terms of the entire county.

Cllr McGrath said that while the plan is ambitious, he does believe it is achievable once adequate investment is forthcoming.

Funding has to be there to match the ambition, he said.

Cllr Coughlan said the plan is a peoples plan.

It is about getting our towns and our villages and our farmland, and protecting that, protecting our heritage, protecting our environment.

If its not written down in a policy document like the county development plan, it will never happen. Those ambitions are set out in the plan.

Consultation on the draft plan open

Submissions on the Draft Cork County Development Plan are now being accepted and people across county Cork are being encouraged to have their say on the plans.

The Draft Plan has been prepared following an intensive process that included 46 formal meetings between the elected members of Council and the Executive, in addition to a public consultation process seeking views on strategic matters at the Pre-Draft stage. This publication is an opportunity for individuals and groups across the county to consider the contents of the Draft Plan and I would strongly encourage people to get involved and have their say in the future development of County Cork, said Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Mary Linehan Foley.

Cllr O Shea said there was a huge volume of work in setting out a plan for the county for the next six years.

[There is a] huge amount of information there and I would encourage people that are living in the different and respective towns to look up their own village, to look up their own town, and to see what is planned for that and to make their own submission for that in accordance with their own views, he said.

Where can I find out more on the plan?
.

To hear the poem read out by the author, please click below.

I: Conquest

That man and monkey share a common ancestor,

Is quite plain in Delhis Lutyens epicentre,

The evolutionary battle is still robust,

To see which a visit to Rajpath is a must.

He who holds Raisina Hill controls sovereignty,

There the head of state and chief executive be;

The South Block has External Affairs and Defence,

The North Block has Finance, Home and Intelligence;

On one side in North Block bureaucrats hold their court,

Across the road South Block is the Mandarin fort;

With Rajpath the line of control that transgressors

Only at great personal peril dare to traverse.

The Rhesus Macaque once ruled in Raisina Hill,

Till Lutyens built the new capital imperial;

It lost the battle, and with it territory,

But the macaque was not one to cede victory.

As bureaucrats and mandarins wound up their day,

The intrepid macaque was back to have his say;

His habits he changed by turning crepuscular,

At twilight in the corridors got muscular.

With fiery eyes and bared teeth spoiling for a fight,

The vengeful macaques did humans at sundown fright;

Homo sapiens dared not to look it in the eye,

As past the macaques to exit they sidled by;

The assaults and skirmishes finally did cease,

After bureaucrats and mandarins sued for peace;

Equal possession was the price to avoid fight,

Homo sapiens at daytime, the macaques at night.

The macaques soon got down to set the record straight,

Bundled files the target of their ire and hate,

Nightly they were focused on public policy,

To devastate the intruders economy.

At budget time they went to serious work each year,

Shuffling tax rates and customs duties without fear,

And as their rivals growth to the Hindu rate fell,

They chuckled with delight at sending them to hell.

For emerging Asia passed their poor cousins by,

The four East Asian Tigers left them high and dry,

Malaysia and Thailand now joined the miracle,

And soon thereafter China moved in for the kill

II: The War of Attrition

Uneasy the truce that held in Raisina Hill,

With daily skirmishes in the corridors till,

The langur joined the evolutionary battle,

His fiery brachiating rival to rattle.

The Grey Ridge langur, bored and peripatetic,

Migrates oftentimes to Raisina to frolic,

The Rhesus strangely is by the langur daunted,

Scurrying for cover the moment it is spotted.

Macaques like man is prone to tribal rivalry,

Clans in North and South Block cannot eye to eye see,

From those that dared cross the Rajpath line of control,

The ferocious rival clan took a heavy toll,

Now the warring clans brokered peace and united,

North Block was vacated and South Block divided,

Mandarins and bureaucrats will likewise share room,

When a common threat on the horizon doth loom.

The Grey Ridge langur is restless and whimsical,

Easily bored of jungles concrete or sylvan,

Not long before their nerves were once again on edge,

And they brachiated their way back to the ridge.

The Mandarin and the bureaucrat were now free,

Their old warring selves at each others throat to be,

Re-established was line of control of yore,

And somnolence reigned in Raisina Hill once more.

As the see-saw battle waged between next of kin,

It was anybodys guess as to who would win,

The triangular evolutionary tussle,

For the survival of the fittest on the hill.

III: Paradise Regained

Homo sapien now stepped up to the plate,

His pole position in the primate chart at stake;

A Final Solution was soon found to dispose,

Of the wily beasts at the root cause of his woes.

The macaque was technologically outgunned,

As man to his lethal tool making skills now turned;

Bloody and one sided the battle at the hill,

As primate turned upon rival primate to kill.

The macaque had played with fire and had to pay,

This was not the time to fight but to run away,

Discretion is also valour for as they say,

Timely retreat can to victory turn someday.

The shrewd warrior of the primeval rift valley,

Shifted battleground in one surprising sally;

Bringing human sensibilities into play,

The Final Solution was soon in disarray.

Non-lethal tools were now deployed, and the macaques,

Stunned and relocated to distant sylvan parks;

But soon back, Man had not reckoned their tracking skill,

The battle for Raisina Hill was at standstill.

Next he called upon his friendly primate ally,

The dreaded Ridge Langur to nearby trees did tie,

But as macaques with activists did conspire,

Its nemesis was soon out of the line of fire.

Man now changed tack and turned around his policy,

Leveraging his neocortical ability;

With laissez faire economic liberalisation,

Taxes and duties now moved in new direction.

Random change was no more a possibility,

No more through files could they wreck the economy;

Macaques found it no longer made eminent sense,

To control the commanding heights of governance.

IV: Paradise Lost

As Man now his fallen economy repaired,

Growth rates soared, incomes rose, and the poor better fared;

As East Asia and China faltered with the West,

His economy was poised as the global best.

Defeated the macaques from Raisina Hill fled,

And to the surrounding human settlements spread,

Houses they raided and the children they did taunt,

Monkey Man the entire city seemed to haunt.

Fear soon turned to awe and finally to scripture,

Monkey Man seemed to an epic god similar,

Milk, fruit and honey were on house terraces laid,

The macaque was soon master of all he surveyed.

As his following grew the macaque full well knew,

His influence on the country how to renew,

An opulent Temple to him dedicated,

Macaques were from rival to god elevated.

As the focus of man from science to faith was turned,

Ignorance spread its wings and old lessons unlearned;

Gone were the economic texts and the trade theory,

The method in taxes and tariffs went awry.

In triumph the macaque moved back to his old block,

Taxes and tariffs from budget to budget rock;

Economic growth once more to the Hindu rate fell,

As the macaque sent the intruder back to hell.

The see-saw battle wages between next of kin,

It is anybodys guess as to who will win,

The triangular evolutionary tussle,

Still raging in the Battle of Raisina Hill.

Note: Frequent visitors and those who work in the corridors of power in New Delhis North and South Block will vouch for the long-standing tussle between humans and monkeys. The satirical twist to this phenomenon was given by my dear friend and former colleague in the civil service, V Bhaskar, who alas is no more. It is to his fond memory that this poem is dedicated. The visible tussle in the seat of Indias sovereignty is at one level a metaphor for the clash between ad hoc, irrational policies, and those based on science and reason. At another level, it reflects professional rivalries between civil servants and diplomats punctuated by episodes where the Prime Ministers Office seeks to dominate departmental decision-making.
RENO, Nev., May 03, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Nevada Exploration Inc. (NGE or the Company) (TSX-V:NGE; OTCQB:NVDEF) is pleased to announce the launch of its interactive South Grass Valley 3D VRIFY model, and to provide the second monthly update from its 2021 core drilling program at the project.



The first hole of the program, SGVC012, is presently at a depth of approximately 1,300 metres within the Goodwin Formation of the lower plate. Logging completed for the upper portion of the hole has confirmed the presence of Carlin-type alteration associated with highly-anomalous pathfinder geochemistry, as well as significant, regional-scale structural features along the projection of the Water Canyon Structural Corridor, as predicted by the Companys geologic model. At the current depth, core samples are showing evidence of increasing structural deformation and hydrothermal fluid flow, and the Company plans to continue to drill deeper while these features intensify. For its next hole, SGVC013, NGE is planning to move southwards along the NNW-trending Water Canyon Structural Corridor, and extend its southernmost fence of drill holes another 600 metres towards the east.

To provide the context to explore the new information provided with its monthly updates, NGE welcomes its stakeholders to visit its new 3D South Grass Valley model, where the Company has published its geologic model and the results of each major work program to date using VRIFY Technology Inc.s interactive VRIFY platform. For a guided introduction to the model, the Company has also provided a short video highlighting the main datasets available to be reviewed.

South Grass Valley VRIFY model: https://vrify.com/decks/10143-south-grass-valley-model-tour.

Video introduction to model (2:32): https://youtu.be/23otbkoJROs

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at: https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/04a58dad-61fd-476f-8cf0-4c81798fced2

With respect to the current drilling, NGE reports:

The Company has logged the SGVC012 core samples down to a depth of 954 metres (this includes washing the core, collecting both white light and UV photography, completing geologic logging, collecting oriented-core structural measurements, cutting the core, and completing preliminary XRF geochemistry analysis);





Since first encountering lower-plate bedrock at 590 metres, SGVC012 has drilled through the Roberts Mountains, Hanson Creek, and Goodwin Formations;





Within the units that have been logged, there is evidence of pervasive Carlin-style hydrothermal fluid flow, marked by bleaching, argillization and decalcification, indicative of acid-leaching associated with the passage of CTGD hydrothermal fluids, as well as bedding-parallel and bedding-normal calcite veining, all of which, based on preliminary portable XRF-derived geochemistry, is associated with highly anomalous Carlin-type pathfinders, particularly within high-angle fracture zones cutting through the Roberts Mountains and Hanson Creek Formations;





SGVC012 did not encounter the Lower Hanson Creek, Antelope Valley or Nine Mile Formations that elsewhere sit below the Upper Hanson Creek and above the Goodwin (see the Stratigraphic Column provided in the VRIFY model: https://vrify.com/decks/10143-south-grass-valley-model-tour?slide=86385), which represents a thick sequence of missing stratigraphy consistent with the presence of a significant structural feature oriented sub-parallel to bedding, such as a large low-angle thrust fault; and





The predominant bedding seen within the Goodwin Formation units in SGVC012 is parallel to the core axis, representing a significant change in orientation relative to that seen west of the Water Canyon Structural Corridor  west of the corridor the bedding dips 15o to the SE, whereas east of the corridor the bedding dips 70o to the SW - which based on the preliminary oriented-core measurements appears consistent with a significant fault and/or fold feature running parallel to the NNW-trending Water Canyon Structural Corridor.



NGEs CEO Wade Hodges, discussing SGVC012 and plans for SGVC013: Its obviously early days for the program, and we still have more core to log from this current hole, though the first 950 metres weve logged has already confirmed the presence of widespread Carlin-type hydrothermal fluid flow, as well as highlighted both the scale and complexity of the structural features were seeing across the district, and in particular along our projected Water Canyon Structural Corridor.

In our earlier drilling we began to see evidence that a block of the Roberts Mountains and Hanson Creek, which we call the Wedge Block, had been moved along a low-angle discontinuity we refer to as the Hydra Fault; and what were seeing in SGVC012, with more than 350 metres of missing stratigraphy between the Upper Hanson Creek and the Goodwin, is helping to solidify the presence of a major potential thrust fault across this northern end of the project.

Once we drilled below this potential thrust feature, the next unit we encountered, the Goodwin, was tipped almost 90 degrees relative to what we saw to the west, indicative of significant folding and/or faulting between SGVC012 and our earlier holes, the axis of which appears to be parallel to our major NNW corridor. As weve shared, the three major Carlin districts are all anchored by regional-scale structural features, which provided the fluid pathways to move massive volumes of mineralized hydrothermal fluids, and this large step-out to the east continues to present more evidence for just how big the scale of these structural and alteration features are at South Grass Valley.

While it is significant to note the massive scale of these features, the change in bedding in the Goodwin does present a challenge in that we are now drilling parallel to the bedding, meaning were having to drill deeper than expected to reach our Cambrian-aged target stratigraphy below. At the moment were seeing increasing post-soft sediment deformation and debris flow structural straining with normal-to-bedding calcite tension veinlets, together with fracture-controlled bleaching, and our plan is to continue the hole deeper; however, depending on what we see over the coming days with the XRF-derived geochemistry, we may make a decision to stop the hole, and instead use a subsequent drill hole in this area to test our target Clm stratigraphy closer to the center of the fold or fault feature  a setting we know hosts mineralization at the three major Carlin districts  where we also expect our target units to sit closer to surface.

In the meantime, while we finish logging the bottom of SGVC012, when were ready to move sites, our plan is to drill our next hole, SGVC013, at the south end of the project, to extend our southernmost fence of drill holes deeper and closer to the Water Canyon structural corridor (see Section D -D in the VRIFY model: https://vrify.com/decks/10143-south-grass-valley-model-tour?slide=86386). In terms of our speed of drilling, were seeing penetration rates averaging about 25 metres per day, which is slower than expected, though the daily averages have been increasing as the drillers become more familiar with the project, and were expecting this trend to continue with SGVC013.

In summary, our early observations from SGVC012 are consistent with our projections of a major structural corridor cutting through our project area, hosting significant Carlin-type hydrothermal alteration features associated with highly-anomalous pathfinders  together all at a scale consistent with Nevadas largest Carlin-type mineral systems, and were looking forward to finishing logging and sampling the SGVC012 core, and to moving on to add a similarly important new hole at the south end of the project.

To follow our continued progress, we encourage all of our stakeholders to visit our new VRIFY model for the project, where you can review the results of each of our work programs, and our resulting geologic model  the same model we use daily to guide our current drilling. By publishing all of this data online using VRIFYs intuitive and interactive platform, were providing a powerful and transparent tool to explore how weve systematically advanced and de-risked this otherwise-covered project. We hope you find it valuable.

As the 2021 South Grass Valley drilling program continues, NGE encourages its stakeholders to sign up to its email list to receive its monthly updates, as well as to subscribe to one or more of its social media channels to follow along as its team shares photos from the field and its logging facility.

Email sign up: www.nevadaexploration.com/investors/signup

Twitter: www.twitter.com/NV_Exploration

Instagram: www.instagram.com/nevadaexploration

Facebook: www.facebook.com/NevadaExplorationInc

About Nevada Exploration Inc.

With mature, exposed search spaces seeing falling discovery rates, NGE believes the future of exploration is under cover. Nevadas exposed terrains have produced more than 200 million ounces of gold, and experts agree there is likely another 200 million ounces waiting to be discovered in the more than half of Nevada where the bedrock is hidden beneath post-mineral cover. NGE has spent more than 15 years developing and integrating new hydrogeochemistry (groundwater chemistry) and low-cost drilling technology to build an industry-leading, geochemistry-focused toolkit specifically to explore for new gold deposits under cover, and the Company is now advancing a portfolio of projects totalling more than 170 square kilometres.

NGEs most advanced project is South Grass Valley, located approximately 50 kilometres south-southwest of the Cortez complex, operated by Nevada Gold Mines (Barrick Gold Corp. and Newmont Corporation joint venture), within the specific region of north-central Nevada that hosts Nevadas largest Carlin-type gold deposits (CTGDs). Since acquiring the Project, NGE has completed: an infill borehole groundwater sampling program, detailed air magnetic and gravity geophysics surveys, a soil geochemistry sampling program, an initial diamond core drilling program consisting of 10 stratigraphic orientation holes, and most recently (2020), a follow-up reverse-circulation drilling program consisting of 17 holes to increase the density of its bedrock sampling.

Based on the results of its combined exploration datasets, NGE believes it has discovered a mineral system at South Grass Valley with the architecture and scale to potentially support multiple CTGDs. As the Company continues to advance the project, per NI 43-101, 2.3(2), the Company must remind its stakeholders that the project remains an exploration target for which the potential quantity and grade of any mineral resource is still conceptual in nature, and that it is uncertain if further exploration will result in the target being delineated as a mineral resource.

For further information, please contact:

Nevada Exploration Inc.

Email: info@nevadaexploration.com

Telephone: +1 (604) 601 2006

Website: www.nevadaexploration.com

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Wade A. Hodges, CEO & Director, Nevada Exploration Inc., is the Qualified Person, as defined in National Instrument 43-101, and has prepared the technical and scientific information contained in this News Release.

Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information:

This news release contains forward-looking information and forward-looking statements (collectively, forward-looking information) within the meaning of applicable securities laws, including, without limitation, expectations, beliefs, plans, and objectives regarding projects, potential transactions, and ventures discussed in this release.

In connection with the forward-looking information contained in this news release, the Company has made numerous assumptions, regarding, among other things, the assumption the Company will continue as a going concern and will continue to be able to access the capital required to advance its projects and continue operations. While the Company considers these assumptions to be reasonable, these assumptions are inherently subject to significant uncertainties and contingencies.

In addition, there are known and unknown risk factors which could cause the Companys actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information contained herein. Among the important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements are the risks inherent in mineral exploration, the need to obtain additional financing, environmental permits, the availability of needed personnel and equipment for exploration and development, fluctuations in the price of minerals, and general economic conditions.

A more complete discussion of the risks and uncertainties facing the Company is disclosed in the Companys continuous disclosure filings with Canadian securities regulatory authorities at www.sedar.com. All forward-looking information herein is qualified in its entirety by this cautionary statement, and the Company disclaims any obligation to revise or update any such forward-looking information or to publicly announce the result of any revisions to any of the forward-looking information contained herein to reflect future results, events or developments, except as required by law.
Car insurance quotes are very helpful for customers that want to obtain better insurance deals. They can easily get in touch with multiple insurance companies and simulate different insurance plans, said Russell Rabichev, Marketing Director of Internet Marketing Company.

Compare-autoinsurance.org has launched a new blog post that explains why drivers should use car insurance quotes.

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Compare-autoinsurance.org is an online provider of life, home, health, and auto insurance quotes. This website is unique because it does not simply stick to one kind of insurance provider, but brings the clients the best deals from many different online insurance carriers. In this way, clients have access to offers from multiple carriers all in one place: this website. On this site, customers have access to quotes for insurance plans from various agencies, such as local or nationwide agencies, brand names insurance companies, etc.
To continue, please log in, or sign up for a new account.

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A subscription to our digital content is so much more than just access to our valuable content. It means youre helping to support a local community institution that has, from its very start, supported the betterment of our society. Thank you very much!
YEREVAN.  The border of Syunik and Gegharkunik Provinces of Armenia is properly equipped; but this work, of course, is carried out in secret so that neither the locals nor the Azerbaijanis can see it. Acting Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated this during Mondays National Assembly special session to discuss the matter of electing a Prime Minister, answering the question of independent MP Taguhi Tovmasyan.

The MP asked, in particular, why the Armenian border was not properly equipped in the aforesaid areas.

"Maybe they are right in saying that [Azerbaijani president] Aliyev does not need to spend money on intelligence? Ultimately, we [Armenia] tell him everything. A little more, and they will start noting the coordinates: There are good trenches here, but there are no trenches there, and there is a convenient corridor. Do we even understand at all what we are doing?, Pashinyan complained, answering the MP's question.

Tovmasyan replied that the positions of Armenian and Azerbaijani troops were a few meters away in some areas, not to mention the trenches and their condition, and the ammunition and uniforms of the Armenian servicemen there were clearly visible to the adversary.

Pashinyan objected that if a border is visible to the naked eye, it is a bad border. "There is a volume of work that is not published and which is not visible to you or the enemy," the acting premier assured.
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Meow Wolf is a mind-blowing multiverse.

The Santa Fe-based arts collective is spreading the love to New Mexico educators with a giveaway for free tickets during Teachers Appreciation week, which kicked off Monday, May 3.

According to Meow Wolf, the giveaway for New Mexico teachers will be run through its Santa Fe Facebook page.

To enter the contest, teachers and fans of teachers need to comment on the respective Facebook posts to nominate their favorite public school teacher in New Mexico.

Twenty-five public school teachers will then be selected to receive a four-pack of tickets to House of Eternal Return in Santa Fe. The giveaway will be open to all PreK-12 public school teachers, administrators, and faculty in New Mexico.

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Winners will be selected on Friday, May 7, at random from the Facebook contest, and will need to provide a New Mexico school ID Badge to receive their tickets.

At Meow Wolf, we believe in the value of public education, and give tremendous thanks to the teachers, educators and administrators who dedicate their lives to serving our next generation, said Danika Padilla, Meow Wolfs Senior Director of Social Impact, in a press release. Were a Certified B Corporation and are committed to supporting New Mexicans and our local community. Our teachers have continued their tireless efforts to support students and parents during COVID-19, and Meow Wolf is glad to recognize their efforts this Teacher Appreciation Week.

Meow Wolf has spent the past year installing a variety of upgrades to the exhibit with new installations from guest artists such as Corinne Loperfido, Paolo Puck, and Obsidiopolis. The installation has also revised its traffic flow and curtailed its interaction with immersive displays so that the interactive experience aligns with museum protocol. Implementing safety practices and protocols to protect employees, guests, and the community is Meow Wolfs main priority. Procedures currently include face masks, temperature checks, social distancing, ventilation upgrades, and employee COVID-19 testing.

Meow Wolf is also implementing safety measures for their staff and the exhibit. Every day, in preparation for guests, the House of Eternal Return undergoes rigorous sanitization.

To learn more about what Meow Wolf is doing to protect guests, please visit the Meow Wolf website at meowwolf.com.
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ELIZABETH CITY, N.C.  The Rev. Al Sharpton issued a powerful call for transparency and the release of body camera footage at the funeral Monday for Andrew Brown Jr., a Black man shot and killed by deputies in North Carolina, with the civil rights leader likening withholding the video to a con job done on the public.

I know a con game when I see it. Release the whole tape and let the folks see what happened to Andrew Brown, Sharpton told mourners in a scorching eulogy at the invitation-only service at a church in Elizabeth City.

You dont need time to get a tape out. Put it out! Let the world see what there is to see. If youve got nothing to hide, then what are you hiding? he said, to loud applause.

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A judge ruled last week that the video would not be made public for at least a month to avoid interference with a pending state investigation into the April 21 shooting of Brown, 42, by deputies attempting to serve drug-related search and arrest warrants.

An independent autopsy commissioned by his family said Brown was shot five times, including once in the back of the head. Family members who were privately shown a portion of the body camera video say Brown was trying to drive away when he was shot. The shooting sparked days of protests in the city in rural northeastern North Carolina.

Other speakers included Browns sons as well as civil rights attorney Ben Crump, who is representing Browns family. Calling Browns death an unjustifiable, reckless shooting, Crump told mourners the legal team would continue fighting for justice and transparency.

We are here to make this plea for justice because Andrew was killed unjustifiably, as many Black men in America have been killed: shot in the back. Shot, going away from the police. And because Andrew cannot make the plea for justice, it is up to us to make the plea for justice, Crump said.

Relatives of other Black men killed by law enforcement officers, including siblings of George Floyd, Eric Garners mother and Daunte Wrights sister also spoke at the service. Bridgett Floyd described the sleepless nights, long days, heartache and pain that she knows Browns family is facing, having experienced the killing of her brother by a police officer in Minnesota who was later convicted of murder.

After Browns funeral, she told reporters it was important for her to come to North Carolina to show support for his family.

Im showing them strength right now. If I can do it, they can do it, she said.

A long line of mourners filed into the church, many wearing white T-shirts with Browns image and the words, Say his name. In the lobby, a wreath of red and white flowers with a ribbon bearing the message, Rest in Peace Drew, referring to Browns nickname, stood next to a tapestry with images of him. As the service started, an ensemble sang songs of praise including, Youre the Lifter, while mourners stood and clapped.

Family members have said that Brown was a proud father of seven, who was known for entertaining relatives with his stories and jokes.

The FBI has launched a civil rights probe of the shooting, while state agents are conducting a separate investigation. Three deputies who were involved remain on leave. The states Democratic governor, Roy Cooper, has called for swift release of the body camera footage, which must be approved by a judge under state law.

The search and arrest warrants accused Brown of possessing small amounts of cocaine and methamphetamine that he intended to sell. Brown had a criminal history dating back to the 1990s, including past drug convictions.

A prosecutor has said that Browns car ran into the deputies before they opened fire, while a family attorney who watched a 20-second clip of the footage disagreed, saying that Brown posed no threat and was driving away from deputies. The sheriff has said his deputies werent injured.

During his eulogy, Sharpton slammed the notion that Browns past record or actions on the day of the shooting justified violence against him.

Whatever record Andrew had, Andrew didnt hurt nobody, he said, adding: How do you try and justify shooting a man that was not a threat to you, because he was running away from you?

Among those attending the service was 40-year-old Davy Armstrong, who said he went to high school with Brown and lived near him while the two were growing up. He said Brown seemed to be doing well when he ran into him recently before the shooting.

He was very humble, very generous. He said he was doing good, said Armstrong, who works in construction. We hear about this on TV all the time. But when its someone so well known and so respected, its pretty painful.

After the funeral, 67-year-old Michael Harrell, who lives around the corner from Browns house, recalled that he would see Brown playing with his kids in the yard.

Everything is in Gods hands, Harrell said of the message he took away from the funeral. And through Gods hands, truth and justice will be served. People will be held accountable.

___

Drew reported from Durham, North Carolina.
Media reports on the agreement between the United States and Iran on the exchange of prisoners are untrue, said Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh.

The reports of the exchange of prisoners with the United States do not correspond to reality. The problem of prisoners was and remains a humanitarian problem, and they have always been on Iran's agenda, and the tracking of their problem was separate from the negotiations on the nuclear deal, he told the press-conference representative of the Iranian MFA.

Earlier, the Lebanese TV channel al-Mayadeen reported, citing Iranian sources, that the US and Iran allegedly intend to exchange detained citizens. The TV channel also noted that as part of the deal reached between the parties, the United States intends to pay $ 7 billion from frozen Iranian assets. The US State Department also denied media reports that an agreement had been reached with Iran on the exchange of detainees.
Covid: bars and restaurants in Greece reopen after 6 months Service only outdoors until 22:45

(ANSAmed) - ROME, MAY 3 - In Greece bars and restaurants have reopened after six months due to the coronavirus pandemic, Greek newspaper Kathimerini reported on Monday. Clients can only be served outdoors with distanced tables for a maximum of six people. Closure is mandatory at 22:45 to respect the curfew.



Waiters must be tested for Covid-19 and wear facemasks.



"We are resuming restaurant activities but the virus is still here. The risk is not over", said Development Minister Adonis Georgiadis on Monday morning. (ANSAmed).




YEREVAN.  There is no lack of innovative and original ideas within the framework of the 17th measure being implemented by the Ministry of High-Tech Industry to neutralize COVID-19s economic consequences in Armenia, the ministry informed Armenian News-NEWS.am.

The new generation of Armenian scientists presents many interesting programs.

Accordingly, 10X Engineering is one of the winners of the respective grant programs for established companies. Using VR technology, the company's engineering team has developed 3D glasses that enable the human visual and auditory senses to move to the virtual world, and this reduces pain and stress levels during medical examinations, or other stressful situations.

Similar devices already exist in the world, but the Armenian model is a few steps ahead of them, as the content developed by Armenian engineers takes into account also the distinctivenessnationality, age, preferences, susceptibility to various phenomena, taste, and some other attributesof each person.

The first tests of this product are scheduled in six months.
Aerial photo taken on Aug 19, 2020 shows wind turbines in Jiucaiping scenic spot in Southwest China's Guizhou province. [Photo/Xinhua]

By ZHANG YUNBI

Nation to provide more public goods to global community for enhanced ties

In its latest bid to underline the country's commitment to tackling climate change and protecting the environment, China aims to further advance sustainable development worldwide and will actively participate in global environmental governance.

The goals were announced by Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, as he presided over a study session of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee on Friday.

The study session focused on ecological protection across the country, and it took place after Xi attended two recent high-level meetings on climate change.

In particular, Xi, also China's president, proposed the concept of a community of life for man and nature while delivering a speech via video link at the Leaders' Summit on Climate on April 22.

At the Friday study session, Wang Jinnan, head of the Chinese Academy of Environmental Planning under the Ministry of Ecology and Environment, elaborated on relevant issues and proposed work suggestions for discussion.

Xi said China should further improve South-South cooperationwhich means teamwork among the vast number of developing countriesand cooperate with neighboring countries in this regard.

In a manifestation of China's role as a major country with a great sense of duty, China is expected to provide more public goods for the global community, Xi said.

With regard to developing countries, China will provide them with financial and technical support "within its capacity", offer assistance in improving their environmental governance and work with them together in building a green Belt and Road, an official release on the group study on Saturday quoted Xi as saying.

When elaborating on China's principles in this field for enshrining multilateralism, Xi highlighted the need to secure common but differentiated responsibilities, champion justice and base countries' duties on their respective capabilities.

This year, China will host the 15th Conference of the Parties (COP15) of the Convention on Biological Diversity in October, and the year also marks the beginning of the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-25) period.

At the Friday session, Xi stressed the need to maintain strategic resolve in developing an ecological civilization and achieving modernization featuring human-nature harmony.

Major biodiversity conservation projects will be launched, and the country will work to make COP15 a success, he added.

The 14th Five-Year Plan period is a vital phase for China's ecological conservation drive that aims for overall green transformation of economic and social development through coordinated progress in pollution reduction and carbon emissions cuts, Xi said.

He urged more efforts to accelerate the adjustments of structures in four key areasindustries, energy, transportation and land use.

"High-energy consumption and high-emission projects that do not meet requirements must be resolutely taken down," Xinhua News Agency quoted Xi as saying.

Peaking carbon emissions and achieving carbon neutrality are a solemn commitment to the world and are also a profound economic and social transformation that is by no means easy, Xi said.

China will work on a system for better realizing the value of ecological products so that the efforts for ecological environmental protection and restoration can be awarded a reasonable return, and moves damaging the environment will be punished correspondingly, he added.

He called on Party officials and governments at all levels to set clear timetables and road maps to push economic and social development based on efficient use of resources and green, low-carbon growth.
Cat owners are being warned to keep their cats indoors and apply sunscreen during the hottest days of the summer after a cat had her ears amputated.

Cats Protection in the UK has issued advice to owners, warning them of the dangers of letting cats lounge about in the sun.

One cat that passed through the charitys care had to have the tips of her ears removed due to sun damage.

Smurf in her new home (Cats Protection)

Smurf from Belfast was picked up from the streets last autumn. Believed to have been in a car crash, she was rushed to a vet who removed her right eye and ear tips, which had been badly sun-damaged, before she was eventually rehomed.

Smurfs owner, Kate Large, told the PA news agency: She wasnt in Lisbon or Madrid. She was outside in Northern Ireland for less than a year, with the amount of sun we get in Ireland and this was the damage it caused.

The 49-year-old, who volunteers at the shelter, said prior to adopting Smurf, she had not been aware cats could get such severe sun damage.

Most people are great cat owners and would be mortified if their cat got cancer due to what technically is their lack of education, she said.

Smurf with her owner Kate Large (Cats Protection)

She adopted Smurf after a previous kitten she had taken in died from a mutated coronavirus, which left her self-isolating for seven weeks.

Smurf is just a really easy cat, she said. Shes so grateful, she had to fight so hard for a basic, decent life. I look at her and think, to me, she is perfect.

The charity is trying to raise awareness of the effects of sun damage, which can be severe even in indoor cats.

Sarah Elliott, central veterinary officer for Cats Protection, said: Cats are notorious for their love of lounging around in the sun but, just as with humans, this can be a very dangerous activity when the sun is at its hottest.

Even on a cold day, when the sun is bright then there is still the potential for damage to occur.

(Cats Protection)

Pale-coloured cats like Smurf are particularly at risk, or indeed any cats that have unpigmented white noses or ears. It may take a few years before the damage is visible but, once the early stages of cancer set in, cats require urgent veterinary treatment to prevent it spreading. However, following a few simple steps will help to protect pets from the sun.

Owners are recommended to keep their pet indoors when the sun is at its hottest, and speak to a vet about suitable sunscreen for their animal.

They should provide plenty of shade for pet cats when they are outdoors and ensure they have enough water. To stop cats overheating, place a plastic bottle with frozen water inside a towel and place it in an area the cat frequently visits.
In 1933, the North Adams Women's Club opened an exact replica of Fort Massachusetts, which was built on its original site in North Adams with the aid of a WPA grant. Unable to financially sustain the fort as a tourist attraction, the club sold it to private owners in 1945 and it was used in part, as a restaurant.

The buildings eventually fell into disrepair and were torn down piece by piece. In 1973, at the request of Central Markets which owned the land at that time, the remaining building was torn down. The site is now marked by a memorial plaque and the remains of the replica fort's chimney.

Our photos make great gifts. Visit our SmugMug galleries to see more photos and purchase prints.

Fort Massachusetts replica Replica as it looked in 1933 Remnants of the fort Elisha Nims headstone Woodcut of Fort Massachusetts Elisha Nims now rests in Hillside Cemetery A water wheel What Fort Massachusetts may have looked like

Jennifer Huberdeau Acting Features Editor Jennifer Huberdeau is the acting features editor. Prior to The Eagle, she worked at The North Adams Transcript. She is a 2020 New England First Amendment Institute Fellow and a 2010 BCBS Health Care Fellow.
New York, May 03, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Reportlinker.com announces the release of the report "Virtual Reality in Healthcare Market Research Report by Technology, by Application - Global Forecast to 2025 - Cumulative Impact of COVID-19" - https://www.reportlinker.com/p05911879/?utm_source=GNW



Market Statistics:

The report provides market sizing and forecast across five major currencies - USD, EUR GBP, JPY, and AUD. This helps organization leaders make better decisions when currency exchange data is readily available.



1. The Global Virtual Reality in Healthcare Market is expected to grow from USD 5,634.42 Million in 2020 to USD 17,229.48 Million by the end of 2025.

2. The Global Virtual Reality in Healthcare Market is expected to grow from EUR 4,940.37 Million in 2020 to EUR 15,107.13 Million by the end of 2025.

3. The Global Virtual Reality in Healthcare Market is expected to grow from GBP 4,392.00 Million in 2020 to GBP 13,430.28 Million by the end of 2025.

4. The Global Virtual Reality in Healthcare Market is expected to grow from JPY 601,336.07 Million in 2020 to JPY 1,838,822.62 Million by the end of 2025.

5. The Global Virtual Reality in Healthcare Market is expected to grow from AUD 8,181.93 Million in 2020 to AUD 25,019.50 Million by the end of 2025.



Market Segmentation & Coverage:

This research report categorizes the Virtual Reality in Healthcare to forecast the revenues and analyze the trends in each of the following sub-markets:



Based on Technology, the Virtual Reality in Healthcare Market studied across Full Immersive VR, Non Immersive VR, and Semi Immersive VR.



Based on Application, the Virtual Reality in Healthcare Market studied across Diagnosis of Cognitive Disorders, Education & Training, Phobia Treatment, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorders, Robotic Surgery, Surgery Simulation, Treatment of Autism, and Visualization & Rehabilitation.



Based on Geography, the Virtual Reality in Healthcare Market studied across Americas, Asia-Pacific, and Europe, Middle East & Africa. The Americas region surveyed across Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Mexico, and United States. The Asia-Pacific region surveyed across Australia, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, South Korea, and Thailand. The Europe, Middle East & Africa region surveyed across France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Qatar, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Spain, United Arab Emirates, and United Kingdom.



Company Usability Profiles:

The report deeply explores the recent significant developments by the leading vendors and innovation profiles in the Global Virtual Reality in Healthcare Market including 3D Systems, Inc, Alphabet Inc., AppliedVR, Inc., Brainlab AG, CAE Inc., EchoPixel, Inc., Firsthand Technology Inc., GE Healthcare, Hologic, Inc., Koninklijke Philips N.V., LAERDAL MEDICAL AS, Medtronic PLC, Microsoft Corporation, Orca Health, Inc., Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd., Siemens Healthineers AG, Stryker Corporation, SyncThink Inc., Virtalis Ltd, Visualise Creative Limited, Vital Images, Inc., and Vuzix Corporation.



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.



FPNV Positioning Matrix:

The FPNV Positioning Matrix evaluates and categorizes the vendors in the Virtual Reality in Healthcare 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.



Competitive Strategic Window:

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.



The report provides insights on the following pointers:

1. Market Penetration: Provides comprehensive information on the market 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 Virtual Reality in Healthcare Market?

2. What are the inhibiting factors and impact of COVID-19 shaping the Global Virtual Reality in Healthcare Market during the forecast period?

3. Which are the products/segments/applications/areas to invest in over the forecast period in the Global Virtual Reality in Healthcare Market?

4. What is the competitive strategic window for opportunities in the Global Virtual Reality in Healthcare Market?

5. What are the technology trends and regulatory frameworks in the Global Virtual Reality in Healthcare Market?

6. What are the modes and strategic moves considered suitable for entering the Global Virtual Reality in Healthcare Market?

Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p05911879/?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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A HENLEY author whose first book was nominated for a Romantic Novelists Association award is branching out into historical fiction under a different name.

Kirsten Heskeths 2020 debut Another Us was also longlisted for the Guardians Not the Booker Prize.

Set in Hambley, a fictional town not unlike Henley, the book told the story of a couple whose ailing marriage is further challenged when their youngest son is diagnosed with Aspergers.

Kirsten, of Greys Hill, says the book has met with a very positive response from readers.

She says: One of the things that stuns me is that with Twitter and everything else people direct message you all the time about your book and thats lovely.

People will say, Ive got a child whos about to be diagnosed with autism and your book gave me hope or I know nothing about autism but it was very interesting.

That has been one of the best things about being published, actually, people getting in touch.

With nearly 6,000 followers on Twitter, Kirsten has also been able to go public with her new authorial alias, Poppy Cooper, whose The Post Office Girls was published yesterday (Thursday).

Set in 1915, the book introduces us to Beth Healey, who is just about to turn 18. On the day of her birthday she hopes she will be able to forget the ghastly war and celebrate.

But that evening her twin brother Ned announces that he has signed up to fight.

No longer able to stand working in her parents village shop while others are doing their bit, Beth applies to join the Army Post Offices purpose-built Home Depot in Regents Park  and is astounded to be accepted.

There she and her new colleagues Milly and Nora will be responsible for making sure that letters and parcels get through to the troops on the front line.

The Post Office Girls is the first in a projected series of novels, with the second book, A Post Office Christmas, due out at the end of November.

Kirsten, 58, reveals the Poppy part of her pseudonym relates to the books wartime setting.

That came from the publishers, to be honest, she says. Because my real name has been used for contemporary fiction I have to have a different name for my historical work  and I think because it was a different publisher as well. But I wanted people to know that I was Poppy Cooper and the publisher agreed with that  its not like an anonymous thing.

Despite one of her grandfathers having worked at the Mount Pleasant sorting office in central London, Kirsten said that until quite recently she was unaware of the existence of the Army Post Office and the Home Depot.

I only stumbled across it because of all the publicity to do with 100 years since the First World War, she says.

Because there was so much mail being sent to all the troops at the front they couldnt cope with it through the normal sorting channels.

So they built this massive great wooden building on Regents Park in London. It was the biggest wooden building ever, or something like that. It was huge. Acres and acres and acres and they kept adding bits to it.

They needed thousands of people to censor the mail, to check the mail, to sort it  and so thats where the story is set.

Appropriately enough, Kirstens first spark of inspiration for The Post Office Girls came from a 2017 set of commemorative stamps.

She explains: One of them was of a bunch of soldiers standing on a big pile of sacks in a wooden building called the Home Depot, so I looked it up and then I found a whole load of other photos.

There was one of some women sitting at a table basically mending broken parcels.

Because the front was so close and the post was so fast in those days you could send something in the morning and it would get to France that afternoon.

People used to make a cake and cut a couple of slices off and send it to somebody at the front. They even used to send a portion of roast dinner off.

Obviously their wrapping materials werent brilliant, so youd get these repackaged sort of oozing parcels.

After the war, the Home Depot was dismantled and, despite the enormous scale of the enterprise, Kirsten found that relatively little about it had survived.

I read somewhere that the whole building had gone by the Twenties and it went back to being a park, so theres nothing there now, its just a sort of field, she says.

Somebody involved with the royal parks wrote about what all of them did in the First World War and he said there was nothing left. It was just sort of Thanks very much for your help during the war and off you go.
Millers Hill, PA -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/03/2021 -- The car accident attorneys at Perna & Abracht, LLC help clients who have been injured by drunk drivers recover compensation for damages such as medical expenses, wage loss, and pain and suffering. The Chester County law firm handles a wide array of personal injury claims. Their team is well-versed in DUI law in Pennsylvania, Delaware, and throughout the United States. Their attorneys are seasoned litigators who have a record of success obtaining maximum recoveries for clients both inside and outside the courtroom.



"We understand that being hurt in a drunk driving accident is life-altering for some clients. It can be challenging to deal with insurance companies, especially when you're hurt and trying to heal," says Michael J. Perna, Partner. "Our personal injury attorneys fight to hold negligent drivers accountable and help clients recover the full and fair compensation they need to rebuild their lives."



Knowing what to do after a drunk driving accident can be daunting. The experienced, compassionate team at Perna & Abracht, LLC guides clients through the entire personal injury claims process. They offer free initial consultations and advise clients of their options for recovering compensation after a drunk driving injury. Drunk driving accident cases require extensive investigation by professionals who understand the law and how to gather relevant evidence and put it all together to build solid, successful claims. The personal injury lawyers at Perna & Abracht, LLC have the resources and experience necessary to help make things right for injured victims and their families.



About Perna & Abracht, LLC

Established by Frank M. Perna in 1947, Perna & Abracht, LLC is a full-service Chester County, Pennsylvania law firm serving a wide array of new and longstanding individual and corporate clients. Our experienced team understands that no legal solution fits every client. Our team of legal professionals is committed to anticipating our clients' legal needs at all stages and helping them find pragmatic, real-world solutions to complex problems. Attorney Michael R. Perna is licensed to practice law in Pennsylvania, Texas, and Colorado; attorney Jennifer Abracht is licensed to practice law in Pennsylvania and Arizona; and attorney Ryan Borchik is licensed to practice law in Pennsylvania.
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South Africa: Government stresses role of media in democracy

Government has emphasised the importance of media in sharing credible information with the public.

In an era of instant information sharing, as well as the COVID-19 pandemic, the need for trustworthy and fact checked news for public good is crucial, Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) Director General, Phumla Williams, said in a statement on Monday.

Williams made her comments as government joins the rest of the world in commemorating World Press Freedom Day under the theme, Information as a Public Good.

This years Press Freedom Day is a call to affirm the importance of valuing information as a public good, realising the importance of having access to credible information, especially in an era of misinformation and disinformation.

"At the core of what is termed fake news is the devastating impact that it leaves on individuals, the public and democracy. In response to misinformation across borders, journalism provides the most effective means of ensuring that public debate is based on established facts," Williams said.

May 3 is a day set aside to realise and raise the importance of press freedom.

The GCIS welcomes its regular interactions with the media through platforms that cater for strengthening relationships, while also allowing us to speak about the work of government and to share our successes and challenges, Williams said.

Government has acknowledged the good work of the South African media during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Whilst government continues to respond to the deadly pandemic, journalists continue to be at the forefront in the fight against the virus by seeding information about the state of national preparedness, precautionary and educative measures to be taken, and general information about the pandemic.

Government once again thanks all frontline journalists, who have been working diligently to inform the nation about COVID-19 and help citizens understand the spread and impact of the virus. Government also remembers the brave journalists that have lost their lives while bringing reliable information to our homes, the GCIS said.

The 2021 commemoration coincides with the 30th anniversary of the Windhoek Declaration for the Development of a Free, Independent and Pluralistic Press.

The seminar in 1991 served as a catalyst to encourage press freedom, independence and pluralism in Africa and in other parts of the world.

Government remains steadfast in its commitment to uphold press freedom, which is enshrined in our Constitution. Since 1994, government has been resolute in the belief that an independent and free media are vital partners in strengthening any democracy, the GCIS said.  SAnews.gov.za

This story has been published on: 2021-05-03. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Comox, B.C., May 03, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- James Edwards, better known as Stocky, is always thinking about how to serve his country. The WWII veteranand soon-to-be centenarianhas a sense of duty thats engrained in his DNA. From flying over the beaches of Normandy in a fighter plane to fly fishing along the shores of a Comox Valley marsh, hes keenly aware of the responsibility we all have to protect the things we cherish most. Thats why, to mark his upcoming 100th birthday, hes teaming up with Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) to raise funds for conservation efforts that will safeguard wetlands, wildlife and the natural world.

Stocky is an inspiration to all of us, says Greg Sawchuck, a member of DUCs national board of directors and longtime friend to Edwards. As a veteran, he fought for our freedom. As a conservationist, hes ensuring future generations have a safe and healthy environment. Its a privilege to be part of his latest mission, at 99 years young.

DUC has established the Stocky Edwards Wetland and Wildlife Conservation Fund with a goal of raising $100,000 in Edwards honour. British Columbians are encouraged to show their support by donating or engaging in their own personal fundraising.

Edwards interest in conservation isnt new. He and his wife Toni are dedicated members of the DUC community in Comox whove been supporting the organizations efforts for decades. Their motivation comes from a lifetime of enjoying the outdoors. Fishing, hunting and birdwatching account for many hours theyve spent together. Edwards says DUC and its team of conservationists are a great bunch.

The work they do  you can see it, Edwards says, referring to the marshes and other wetland areas under DUCs care. Theyre doing it for the good of the country and the community.

To date, DUC has conserved more than 450,000 acres of wetlands and other natural habitats across British Columbia. In addition to serving as beautiful backdrops and wildlife havens that the province is known for, these areas are essential to the overall health of the environment. They naturally filter pollutants from water, store carbon and guard against the devastating effects of sea-level rise.

Edwards will turn 100-years-old on June 5. DUC hopes to host a celebration, should COVID health guidelines allow, in a Comox-area marsh to commemorate the occasionand the valuable contribution made to conservation.

We hope people across British Columbia, and indeed across Canada, will hear Stockys story and be inspired to show their support, says Sawchuck.

Visit ducks.ca/stockyedwards to learn more about his story and make a contribution.

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Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) is the leader in wetland conservation. A registered charity, DUC partners with government, industry, non-profit organizations and landowners to conserve wetlands that are critical to waterfowl, wildlife and the environment.
The Carlsen Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship believes in the power of mentorship in supporting entrepreneurs at every stage of the entrepreneurial journey. The Mentor Sacramento platform will offer a wide and dense network to connect entrepreneurs with mentors that will support them at their specific stage in the journey.

Mentor Network

We have partnered with the City of Sacramento and the MicroMentor Sacramento platform as a Program Catalyst. As a Program Catalyst we have helped to shape the programs design and will continue to lead through ongoing implementation. We will be playing a key connector role to all participating community partners and stakeholders involved.

In expanding our Mentor Network and engaging our students and entrepreneurs we are leveraging Mentor Sacramento, a platform to engage both mentors and mentees by facilitating impactful relationships that drive powerful connections, solve real problems, and enable new business creation. The platform leverages an online presence ensuring that all Sacramento founders, no matter their geography, have access to mentorship and the value that comes from it.

Strong mentoring connections lead to better business outcomes.  MicroMentor

As an entrepreneur, making your idea a reality is hard work. The journey is no easy feat. A mentor has done the work and accumulated the hard fought truths of the entrepreneurial journey. This is where Mentor Sacramento comes in as the no-cost platform connecting entrepreneurs with mentors to tackle key challenges and launch businesses together.

Mentoring is a brain to pick, an ear to listen, and a push in the right direction.  John C. Crosby
Florida Polytechnic University celebrated the graduation of its classes of 2020 and 2021 on Sunday, May 2, at Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium in Lakeland, Florida. This past year has brought with it unprecedented challenges that often tested our resolve, but you persevered through a pandemic and showed relentless dedication, focus, and resiliency.

Florida Polytechnic University celebrated the graduation of its classes of 2020 and 2021 on Sunday, May 2, at Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium in Lakeland. The long-awaited in-person commencement ceremony marked the culmination of four years of hard work for more than 325 graduates who earned high-demand STEM degrees.

This really means a lot to me, said Daniel Mayorga 21, who received his bachelors degree in computer engineering during the ceremony. Throughout the duration of the last four years, it was very difficult at times when I thought I couldnt do it, but I knew I had my family behind me, backing and supporting me every step of the way.

The socially distanced ceremony adhered to COVID-19 prevention protocols recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It followed a calendar year marked by remote instruction, enhanced safety practices, and the postponement of the Universitys 2020 commencement ceremony, as well as new University national rankings, new programs, and faculty accolades.

Over the past several years, Ive watched you, our students, work hard to succeed as individuals and as leaders driven toward a goal and working to make an impact, Dr. Randy K. Avent, Florida Polys president, said to the graduates. This past year has brought with it unprecedented challenges that often tested our resolve, but you persevered through a pandemic and showed relentless dedication, focus, and resiliency.

The commencement ceremony featured speakers from the alumni class of 2020 and the graduating class of 2021.

We were the class that graduated in the middle of a pandemic, and we will be the class that will come out much stronger because of the challenges we faced and overcame, said alumni class speaker Vamsi Hanumanthu 20, who received his bachelors degree in computer science with a concentration in cybersecurity. He now is an embedded software engineer for Qualcomm and spoke via video recording because he was unable to attend the event.

Megan Morano 21, who received her bachelors degree in business analytics with a concentration in logistics and supply chain management, was the speaker for the class of 2021.

As you walk down the path you have chosen, never forget the network that you built here, Morano said. Over the past four years, we were told to be the next. Now we are the next, and nothing is going to stop us.

Commencement speaker Tom E. Wallace, managing partner at Florida Funders, a Florida-focused investor network and online investing platform passed in Tampa, encouraged graduates to enter the next phase of their lives with an entrepreneurial, risk-taking mindset. He offered several words of advice, including the need to always be learning, creative, generous, and responsible.

I suggest you seek crazy. Crazy is good and crazy people with crazy ideas are the ones that create real change, Wallace said. Maybe one of you will come up with a crazy idea and be crazy enough to pursue it that will totally change the way we look for health care or teach our children.

Wallace urged the graduates to do all they could to create incredible lives for themselves.

My wish for you is when youre in your 80s and look back on your life  the life where you took risks and did everything you wanted to do  that you have absolutely no regrets, he said. Graduates, you are our future. You are the future of this great state. Go forward and create a Florida we can all be proud of.
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PHOENIX  Numerous doctors offices and clinics in Arizona will be able to directly obtain COVID-19 vaccines starting next week, state health officials said Friday.

Dr. Cara Christ, director of the Arizona Department of Health Services, announced eligible physicians and local health care providers will no longer have to rely on allocations from their county public health department.

This means nearly 1,200 providers registered with the state can order up to 200 doses within a two-week period from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. They will receive the Moderna vaccine because it has less complex storage requirements. The hope is that being able to go to a primary care doctor will be a major driver, Christ said.

Based on our community listening sessions, people indicated that a recommendation from their health care provider, that would be one of the things that would drive them to get vaccinated, Christ told reporters during a virtual briefing.

State officials are expecting 100,000 doses to be available for these smaller providers to order directly during the first week.

The decline in vaccine demand in the past month has been an ongoing issue in Arizona. State health officials have been working with community groups on pop-up vaccination events in underserved areas like Yuma and south Phoenix. Some of the strategies include telephonic townhalls, door-to-door canvassing and targeted social media posts.

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Christ remains hopeful herd immunity can be achieved, especially if those ages 12 to 15 will eventually be allowed to get vaccinated.

Overall, more than 2.9 million people, or around 40% of Arizonas population, have had at least one vaccine shot, according to the states coronavirus dashboard. More than 2.2 million have been fully vaccinated.

Meanwhile, the state reported Friday another 844 confirmed COVID-19 cases and 19 deaths. The latest virus numbers bring the pandemic totals to 862,497 cases and 17,324 deaths.

The number of patients hospitalized for COVID-19-related reasons dipped slightly to 618. Of those, 189 remain in the ICU.
Rockville, Md., May 03, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- A new report compiling several studies of charter schools in New Mexicoincluding elementary, middle, high, and dual language schoolsobserves some promising trends for college enrollment, amidst other mixed findings. Conducted for Arnold Ventures by Abt Associates, the New Mexico Charter School Study: Findings Report collates the results of Abts evaluation of numerous charter schools in the state, several of which employ a whole-school dual language model. The study also created multiple logic models for use by practitioners, policymakers, and researchers, and led to ideas for making enrollment in charters schools more equitable.

Findings

New Mexicos charter school landscape is unique: the schools are largely single-site, grass roots institutions run by independent governing councils, whereas in most states, individual organizations manage or run multiple charter schools using a common educational model. Additionally, the state is unusual due to its minority majority population and its large number of charter schools in rural areas. Nevertheless, some of the reports findings warrant a closer look in the context of the broader conversation on charter schools and dual language education:

1. The charter school lottery study included 10 schools and found no statistically significant impacts on the measured student academic outcomes for elementary-aged and middle school-aged students, nor on college enrollment for high school-aged students.

2. The charter school quasi-experimental study included 21 schools and focused on the effect of continual attendance at a charter school versus continual attendance at a non-charter school. The results were mixed, suggesting high school charters increased college enrollment but elementary charters decreased mathematics achievement, relative to comparison students.

3. The dual language quasi-experimental study focused on the effect on students English Language Arts (ELA) performance after five years of dual language education at a charter school compared to five years of standard instruction at a non-dual language school. All of the schools in this study were located in the Albuquerque area. Abts findings suggest that the sub-group of English learners who continuously attend a school-wide dual language charter school perform similarly to or better in ELA than English learners who continuously attend non-dual language schools. However, approximately half of all English learners in this study were only enrolled in a dual language charter school. for two school years or less (48 percent).

4. Principal-reported language skills improved dramatically for students who attended dual language schools for five years. While principals reported only about 15 percent of kindergarteners were proficient at grade level in oral Spanish, that number swelled to 75 percent by fifth grade. The principal-reported growth was similarly dramatic for written Spanish, increasing from approximately 5 percent in kindergarten to approximately 64 percent in fifth grade.

5. The studies produced tips for making enrollment more equitable:

Ensure families know schools are tuition free;

Invest in transportation to improve access;

Prioritize the creation of charter schools in census tracts where economically disadvantaged and minority students reside;

Support community groups focused on educating disadvantaged populations; and

Allow charter schools to hold lottery slots for targeted students, for example English learners in dual language charter schools.

This study offers insight to New Mexico and national policymakers alike about the strengths and weaknesses of charter schools as a policy solution for addressing long-standing achievement gaps in our nations schools, said Abts Project Director, Rachel McCormick.

Read the full report.

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About Abt Associates

Abt Associates is a global consulting and research firm that uses data and bold thinking to improve the quality of peoples lives. From combatting infectious disease and conducting rigorous program evaluations, to ensuring safe drinking water and promoting access to affordable housingand morewe partner with clients and communities to tackle their most complex challenges. https://www.abtassociates.com
Angola, IN (46703)

Today

Rain showers this morning with numerous thunderstorms developing during the afternoon hours. High 78F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 60%..

Tonight

Considerable cloudiness. Occasional rain showers after midnight. Thunder possible. Low around 65F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%.
Story Highlights 58% worldwide report washing their hands at least five times a day

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Along with getting a COVID-19 vaccine when it is available, practicing social distancing and wearing masks, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends people wash their hands often -- with soap and water -- to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Although the CDC doesn't define how many times "often" is, five or more times a day likely aligns with the CDC's recommendation.

When asked how many times they washed their hands or used hand sanitizer the previous day, the world's population seems to be complying. The majority of adults (58%) who Gallup surveyed in 118 countries and areas in the latter half of 2020 said they washed their hands with soap and water -- or used hand sanitizer -- five or more times the previous day. Although just 2% of adults worldwide said they did not wash their hands at all the prior day, this would still translate into more than 86 million people.

Worldwide, the percentage of people who wash their hands or use hand sanitizer five or more times a day ranges from a high of 94% in Denmark and Norway to a low of 21% in Mali.

Heat map. The percentage of the population who washed their hands at least five times a day yesterday, by country. This ranges from 21% in Mali to 94% in Denmark and Norway. All of the top 10 countries where populations most likely to engage in handwashing five times a day or more are European - all with high levels or infrastructure development, likely indicating that most of their populations have access to water and handwashing facilities.

Countries Where 90% or More of the Population Washes Their Hands at Least Five Times a Day About how many times did you, personally, wash your hands using any type of soap AND water or hand sanitizer YESTERDAY? 0 times 1 time 2 times 3 times 4 times 5+ times % % % % % % Denmark 1 0 1 1 2 94 Norway 0 0 1 2 3 94 Malta 0 0 1 2 4 92 North Macedonia 1 0 1 4 3 91 Serbia 0 0 1 3 4 91 Croatia 0 0 1 4 2 90 Montenegro 0 1 0 1 6 90 Portugal 0 0 1 4 4 90 Hungary 0 1 2 2 4 90 Slovenia 0 1 1 4 4 90 Gallup World Poll, 2020

Those countries with populations least likely to wash their hands five or more times a day are largely clustered in Asia and Africa. For many of the countries where individuals are least likely to say they wash their hands five or more times a day, clean water and handwashing facilities are hard to come by and may involve a several-hour walk to reach them.

For instance, according to 2017 World Health Organization data, almost 9 million people in Mali lacked access to basic hygiene facilities in a country with a population of nearly 20 million. Additionally, in Senegal, where 24% of the population reports washing their hands at least five times a day, roughly 12 million people lacked access to basic hygiene facilities in 2017. In a recent study of handwashing in four Indian states, 33% of those who did not wash their hands said a lack of access to water prevented them from doing so.

The 10 Countries With Populations Least Likely to Wash Their Hands at Least Five Times a Day About how many times did you, personally, wash your hands using any type of soap AND water or hand sanitizer YESTERDAY? 0 times 1 time 2 times 3 times 4 times 5+ times % % % % % % Cambodia 3 4 12 27 7 42 Vietnam 4 5 14 23 8 40 Gabon 5 6 14 19 10 39 Thailand 2 3 15 29 9 39 India 3 4 13 19 18 38 Guinea 5 6 15 20 11 37 Nigeria 5 3 13 24 13 37 Benin 6 4 18 22 10 34 Senegal 13 9 17 21 11 24 Mali 18 9 17 22 10 21 Gallup World Poll, 2020

Women Report More Frequent Handwashing Than Men

Across the world, women are substantially more likely than men to report washing their hands five or more times a day (64% vs. 52%, respectively). Additionally, the likelihood of washing one's hands often rises with education level, from 48% among those with a primary education (up to eight years of schooling) to 73% among those with a university or four-year degree.

Those who live in more urbanized areas are more likely to wash their hands at least five times a day. Sixty-three percent of people living in urban areas meet this standard, compared with 54% of those in rural areas. Again, this is likely related to the availability of water, with those in less urbanized areas having less access due to lower levels of water delivery infrastructure. Additionally, at least some of the difference in rural areas may be related to a lack of availability of soap or other disinfectants for handwashing. Individuals in these areas may still be washing their hands, but not using soap or sanitizer.

Global Frequency of Handwashing, by Key Subgroup About how many times did you, personally, wash your hands using any type of soap AND water or hand sanitizer YESTERDAY? 0 times 1 time 2 times 3 times 4 times 5+ times % % % % % % Overall global 2 3 8 14 10 58 Gender Men 2 3 9 16 11 52 Women 1 2 6 12 9 64 Education Primary (8 years or less) 2 3 9 17 12 48 Secondary (9-15 years) 1 2 7 13 10 62 University or four-year degree 1 2 4 10 8 73 Rural/Urban Rural 2 3 9 15 11 54 Urban 1 2 6 13 9 63 Gallup World Poll, 2020

Bottom Line

For many in highly developed, wealthy countries, the ability to wash one's hands is taken for granted, with most people never more than a short walk from a sink or bathroom. However, for large areas of the developing world, this is simply not the case -- and this lack of access to even the most basic hygiene facilities affects the frequency with which people wash their hands.

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, lack of handwashing was already a serious health concern, with unwashed hands passing along diseases from one individual to another. With the start of the pandemic, the importance of handwashing has taken on increased urgency, as outbreaks of the virus have strained and overwhelmed healthcare systems in even the wealthiest of countries. Many of the countries with the lowest levels of handwashing have the least-developed healthcare infrastructures to deal with these outbreaks, setting up potentially nightmarish scenarios in these countries with COVID-19 cases raging out of control.

Many international and local organizations have deployed COVID-19 prevention campaigns in communities across countries with poor water delivery infrastructures. But the findings underscore the ongoing need to raise people's awareness about the importance of handwashing to combat the pandemic.

For complete methodology and specific survey dates, please review Gallup's Country Data Set details.

Learn more about how the Gallup World Poll works.
Farmers markets help Stohrs introduce goat dairy products to SD

Stohr Diary invests in the dairy goat industry. Helps grow awareness to the benefits of goat dairy within South Dakota.
Weve developed Hippos technology organization from the ground up to sit at the critical junction of insurance and technology

Hippo, the home insurance group that created a new standard of care and protection for homeowners, today announced new leadership to its technology team led by Chief Technology Officer (CTO) Ran Harpaz, including the appointment of the companys first Chief Information Officer (CIO), Klarissa Marenitch. In the past year, Hippo has doubled the size of its employee base and scaled to reach homeowners across 34 states, driving a deeper focus on the alignment of Hippos internal technology infrastructure and systems to support Hippos growth and expansion to reach millions more homeowners across the country.

Hippo is modernizing the home insurance process, and uses advanced technology to identify and address homeowner issues proactively. The companys proprietary policy management, industry-leading smart home integrations, customer support systems that help identify issues before they arise, and proactive alerts have all contributed to an experience thats centered on the end-customer. The newly appointed technology leaders will each be responsible for expanding and enhancing the delivery of Hippos technology services to reach specific audience segments across its business, from engineers to employees, to its customers.



Klarissa Marenitch, Hippos first CIO, will oversee the critical systems that support the productivity and efficiency of Hippos fast-growing employee base, including Information Technology, Corporate Technology, Information Security, Business & Insurance Systems, and Employee Productivity. She joins Hippo from her prior role of CIO at fast growing enterprise firm Anaplan. She has led digital transformation and innovation initiatives for companies including Redbox, Sun Microsystems, Kohls and Macys.

Lukasz Strozek, Hippos Vice President of Product Engineering, will manage Hippos B2C, B2B, and Insurance Development teams and work in partnership with the product organization to develop new products that support Hippos customers and robust partner network. He joins Hippo from ecommerce payments firm Bolt, where he was Vice President, Engineering. Earlier in his career, Lukasz co-founded an online lending company acquired by digital finance firm, SoFi. He holds a Stanford MBA and is a Harvard graduate.

Dalit Shahar, joined Hippo in September 2019 from Globality Inc. and was promoted to the role of Vice President, Engineering Operations. She will oversee the planning, execution and release processes of Hippos engineering operations, as well as the Quality operations. Her team enables better execution across the organization from product to recruiting to facilitate improved collaboration, alignment, and productivity.

Mike Gordon, joined Hippo in September 2019 and was promoted to the role of Vice President, Platform Engineering. He will oversee the cloud infrastructure, platform core services, engineering productivity, data platforms, API capabilities and service-oriented-architecture rollout across all of Hippo engineering solutions. Prior to Hippo, Mike spent 8 years as a software engineering leader at Google. He is a veteran officer of the US Army and West Point graduate.

Tal Hornstein, Hippos Chief Security Information Officer (CISO), brings over 25 years of industry experience in multiple security-related startups and tech firms, including five years at Globality Inc. and 13 years with Skybox Security. Tal will be responsible for driving information security strategy and operations for Hippo and scaling Hippos information security team, secure cloud infrastructure and development lifecycle, user education, compliance and risk governance. Tal holds a CISSP certification from the International Information Security Certification Consortium (ISC2).

Ruben Kogel, Hippos Director of Data & Analytics, will oversee a center-of-excellence in data and analytics, and support scaling the companys data science efforts. He was most recently at Lime where he built and led the companys data science and analytics team. Ruben holds an MBA from Chicago Booth and a Masters degree from Stanford.

Weve developed Hippos technology organization from the ground up to sit at the critical junction of insurance and technology, delivering products and ground-breaking innovation to our industry and our growing customer base, said Harpaz, CTO of Hippo. Were honored to have an exceptional roster of technology talent and a deep leadership bench, adding Klarissa as our first-ever CIO focused on delivering exceptional employee experiences, along with Dalit & Mike who continuously exceed expectations, and Lukasz, Ruben & Tal, who will strengthen and scale Hippos technology capabilities to be as proactive as the home insurance we provide our customers.

Together Hippos technology leaders will guide the company on its path to the public market, and support its continued growth and innovation in the industry. In March 2021, Hippo announced a definitive business combination agreement with Reinvent Technology Partners Z (Reinvent) (NYSE:RTPZ), a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) that takes a Venture Capital at Scale approach. Upon the closing of the transaction, the combined company will be publicly traded.

About Hippo

Hippo Insurance Services offers a different kind of home insurance, built from the ground up to provide a new standard of care and protection for homeowners. Our goal is to make homes safer and better protected so customers spend less time worrying about the burdens of homeownership and more time enjoying their homes and the life within. Harnessing real-time data, smart home technology, and a growing suite of home services, we are creating the first integrated home protection platform. Hippo is headquartered in Palo Alto, California with offices in Austin and Dallas, Texas and insurance products available to more than 70 percent of U.S. homeowners in 34 states. Hippo Insurance Services is a licensed property casualty insurance agent with products underwritten by various insurance companies. For more information, including licensing information, visit http://www.hippo.com.
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MADISON, Wis.  A man who shot and killed two people and wounded a third at a northeastern Wisconsin tribal casino restaurant had been fired from the eatery and ordered by a court to leave his former supervisor alone, according to court records.

Bruce Pofahl, 62, walked into the Duck Creek Kitchen and Bar in Green Bay on Saturday and shot Ian Simpson, 32, and Jacob Bartel, 35, at a wait station at close range with a 9 mm handgun as dozens of patrons looked on, Brown County Sheriff Todd Delain said Monday during a news conference in Green Bay.

Pandemonium erupted inside the complex, the sheriff said. As people were yelling and screaming, Pofahl went outside and shot another restaurant employee, 28-year-old Daniel Mulligan, the sheriff said. A team of Green Bay police officers opened fire on Pofahl moments later, killing him.

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Mulligan was in serious but stable condition at a Milwaukee hospital on Monday, Delain said. The sheriff defended the officers decision to fire on Pofahl, saying certainly this individual was a threat.

The restaurant is part of an Oneida Nation hotel, casino and conference center complex on the tribes reservation just west of the city of Green Bay. The complex employs 150 to 200 people.

Pofahls supervisor at the restaurant, Elizabeth Walker, took out a restraining order against him in March, online court records show.

She wrote in her petition that Pofhal had recently been fired for a few things, including harassment, and had been sending her texts and emails threatening her and her family for several weeks. One message read times (sic) up and another warned he would ruin her sisters wedding, Walker wrote. He also sent her photos of her home, she wrote.

Pofahl declined to attend a hearing on the order, saying in a note to the court that he suffered from high blood pressure and diabetes and was afraid hed catch COVID-19 in the courtroom. A court commissioner granted the restraining order but did not prohibit Pofahl from possessing a firearm.

Its unclear if Walker was Pofahls target on Saturday night. Authorities said Pofahl was looking for a specific person when he arrived at the restaurant but that the person wasnt there. They didnt name that person.

Delain said again Monday that the attack was targeted, but he declined to elaborate beyond saying that investigators were looking into Pofahls relationships with former co-workers.

Walker wrote in her restraining order petition that the Oneida were aware of Pofahls threats. The tribes vice chairman, Brandon Stevens, declined to discuss what he called personnel matters during the news conference, saying investigators were still gathering information.

Online court records didnt list any other civil or criminal cases against Pofahl.

Oneida Chairman Tehassi Hill told WLUK-TV on Sunday that he was in disbelief and called the shooting scary. He said the tribe prohibits firearms on its properties but that (mass shootings are) kind of a regular thing in this country.

Hill said he feels security is tight at the casino, but that the tribe may have to consider tougher protocols for the complex depending on investigators findings. Stevens noted Monday that the complex has multiple entrances and exits.

The Oneida are one of 11 tribes that operate casinos in Wisconsin under agreements with the state called compacts. Essentially, the tribes pledge a percentage of their gaming revenue to the state in exchange for the exclusive right to offer casino gambling.

Tribal gaming in Wisconsin generated nearly $1.3 billion in gross revenue in the 2018-2019 fiscal year but suffered deep losses in 2020 due to COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns.

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Follow Todd Richmond on Twitter: https://twitter.com/trichmond1
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PHOENIX  In March, when it was clear that the Republican-controlled Arizona Senate planned to recount presidential votes in the states most populous county, Democratic Secretary of State Katie Hobbs sent a letter urging the Senate president to adopt strict guidelines to ensure the results could be trusted.

Instead, President Karen Fann farmed out the recount to a supporter of election conspiracy theories with no recount experience who refused to share details of how the count would be done until a court ordered the disclosure and the recount was well underway.

That decision and others, including allowing a former state GOP lawmaker who was at the Jan. 6 U.S. Capitol insurrection to count ballots, seem destined to taint the results of the recount that Republicans who control the Legislature say is needed to craft election law reforms.

When youve got half of the people that do not trust the electoral system anymore, rightly or wrongly so, if they have questions, who is responsible for answering these questions, Fann said in a Tuesday interview with Phoenix radio station KTAR. How do  we put election integrity back into our system. And thats only what this has been about.

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However, the recount has been contentious. Cyber Ninjas, the company hired to do the audit, initially refused to release its policies and procedures for re-tallying by hand the 2.1 million ballots in Maricopa County, where President Joe Biden defeated former President Donald Trump.

Counting started on April 23, after the state Democratic Party won a court order requiring the company to follow the law on ballot and voter secrecy and to file its policies with the court. Those policies were finally released Thursday, and by Friday criticism was piling up.

For example, the policies allow counters to accept a large enough error rate to perhaps show Trump won the state. But such an outcome would not change the outcome of the election because the results were certfied months ago in the state and Congress.

If a miscount is determined, it could, however, boost the unsupported argument of Trump and his backers that election fraud and malfeasance lost him the White House.

Bo Dul, state elections director, ticked off a series of issues with the documents that were released under court order, noting they seemed haphazard, lacked specifics and left much room for interpretation  something thats never allowed in ballot counts.

They kind of confirmed what we assumed all along, is that there arent established and adequate policies and procedures in place to really do this in any way that can yield reliable results, Dul said Friday.

She noted that the training materials for vote counters was a simple PowerPoint presentation dated the day after the recount started. The guidelines for the digital examination of voting machines appeared to be a document copied and pasted from a 2020 federal document with nothing specific about the state Senate audit.

Dul also said there were no policies for determining voter intent on a ballot where it wasnt clear, something that is critical in a hand count.

Florida-based Cyber Ninjas did not initially allow journalists into Veterans Memorial Coliseum, the site of the recount where the ballots were laid out on tables. After several days, the media was allowed in but only in limited numbers under a pooling deal worked out by media attorneys.

The reporters mainly reported mundane counting procedures until Friday, when a pool reporter spotted a Republican counting ballots who lost his November re-election bid and who was at the U.S. Capitol during the insurrection in January.

Former Rep. Anthony Kern has been outspoken in his belief that Trumps victory was stolen. He has denied entering the Capitol while participating in the rally headlined by Trump.

The Arizona Republic pool reporter who spotted Kern and tweeted his picture was later ejected for doing so.

Meanwhile, former Arizona Secretary of State Ken Bennett, who is acting as the Senates liaison to the recount, watched as nine machines used to count early ballots were loaded onto trucks to be sent back to Maricopa County offices. Also returned were computer servers that tell the machines how to operate and compile the vote counts, said Megan Gilbertson, spokeswoman for the county Elections Department. Still in the Senates hands are 385 smaller machines used at Election Day polling places to count ballots.

The county does not know what Cyber Ninjas or the companies it has hired did to the machines, which were supposed to be subject to a forensic computer examination. The county leased the equipment from Dominion Voting Systems for three years at $6.1 million.
Rideau Carleton Raceway's Race Manager Peter Andrusek talked with Brian Perkin of Lake 88.1FM about the state of the Ottawa track in Ontario's third shut down as well as the obstacles the industry will have to overcome.

In the interview, Andrusek aired his grievance with the province for its prohibition of harness racing despite the competition taking place outdoors and the track not having a single case of coronavirus traced to its facility. Though racing is halted with the stay-at-home order, horses are still currently allowed to train at the track.

"We raced over 70 live cards during this pandemic, not to mention qualifiers and training, and we have not had one incident of Covid that was traced to our facility," Andrusek said. "Not a sniff. That was not a coincidence. Racing is an outdoor activity, and is done under a very strict regime of protocols. So, what is the difference between racing, which is now prohibited, and training horses, which is permitted? Of course its permitted. Horses are not cars, [you] cant put horses in the stalls, turn off the lights and tell us when youre racing again. Well, Im going to tell you what the difference is: two minutes. Because I can tell you right now, if you went to Rideau Carleton Racewaywhich you cant by the waybut if you did go to Rideau Carleton Raceway, our track has got a whole heap of horses training on there as we speak. So its profoundly disappointing that the proper consideration has not been granted as an industry continues to try."

This shutdown, the third in the province, marks only the second time racing had to stop at Rideau Carleton. The track went dark along with most of continent back in March when the coronavirus cases first surged, but managed to resume racing by June with the implementation of stringent Covid protocols. In the track's time back racing, it saw improving handle and attention thatwith the latest shutdownwill be difficult to regain.

"I think our program has been kicked in the gut and weve lost about three years," Andrusek said. "We have generated tremendous momentum with our program in terms of securing TV spots and simulcast spots. Now that were not racing, now theres a vacuum. And with the United States wide open, those simulcast spots that we worked so hard to secure, theyre being occupied by U.S. tracks who, by the way, arent just going to give them up once Rideau Carleton Raceway resumes racing. So now we have to go back to the chalk board and were going to have to secure all those spots back. And thats going to be a process, and it may take years to get us back to where we were a year ago."

Alongside the loss of momentum, Andrusek also talked about the hit the horsepeople of the province have taken as well as the horse owners who, like many Ontario horsepeople already, may move their horses to the States.

"It is a very large industry," Andrusek said. "I believe there are over 40,000 people in this province alone that tie their living to this industrythat, beginning with this third shutdown which has been going on a month now, has had no means of revenue. And what youve got to understand here is that these horses are not pets, theyre investment. And right now, these owners are not generating any revenue. Now, the big difference between whats happening now than what happened a year ago is a year ago, the entire continent was shut down. This time around, the United States is wide open. Every track in the United States is not only open, but theyre throwing out the red carpet to lure our horses into their jurisdictions. If youre an owner, and these horses are good to racethe prime of their racing is from two years [old] to six or seven years, youve got to generate a bulk of your revenue at that time. Not to mention the costs youre incurring to care for the horses and maintain them. So its very compelling for an owner right now to take their stable of horses and just move them out to the United States.

"And premier tracks like Woodbine and Mohawk, thats happening," Andrusek also said. "Their industry is in real trouble because those owners have significant investments in the horses. Us, Rideau Carleton Raceway? At this time, weve been able tofor the most partretain our supply of horses. Our guys are holding on, for how much longer I dont know because theres so much uncertainty when we will start up. But there is another problem, and that other problem is, while were retaining the bulk [of] our roster of horses, nobody is investing; nobody is buying right now. In June, were scheduled to go from one day a week to two days a week. So if nobodys buying horses, well what am I going to do in June when weve got to feed two race cards of races? So in that respect, were getting in real trouble here."

Andrusek's full interview on 88.1FM is available below:
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Mazda Reports April 2021 Sales Results







May 3, 2021

IRVINE, Calif. (May 3, 2021)  Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today reported total April sales of 31,117 vehicles, an increase of 184.4 percent compared to April 2020. Year-to-date sales totaled 114,375 vehicles; an increase of 45.5 percent compared to the same time last year. With 26 selling days in April, compared to the same number the year prior, the company posted an increase of 48.4 percent on a Daily Selling Rate (DSR) basis.

CPO sales totaled 6,880 vehicles in April, an increase of 187 percent compared to April 2020, and achieved its best ever April.

Sales Highlights

Sales of the CX-30 achieved its second-best month ever with 5,532 vehicles sold.

Sales of the CX-5 achieved its best April ever with 14,883 vehicles sold.

Sales of the CX-9 achieved its best April ever with 3,188 vehicles sold.

CPO sales achieved its best April ever with 6,880 vehicles sold.

Mazda Motor de Mexico (MMdM) reported April sales of 4,482 vehicles, an increase of 133.4 percent compared to April last year. Year-to-date sales increased 16 percent, with 17,211 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.
By John J. Metzler





As events in Myanmar continue to spiral into a dangerous descent of bloody civil conflict this strategic Southeast Asian nation has nearly reached a tipping point. Diplomacy is needed to defuse the crisis before it spins out of control with unpredictable consequences.



Amid this sense of urgency, the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has called for "an immediate end to the violence," which had jolted Myanmar since the February military coup detat. ASEAN, a largely economic grouping of regional states, nonetheless is challenged to play a political role here to stop the spread of violence.



In a meeting in Jakarta, the ASEAN group reached a consensus and pressed Myanmar's military leader General Min Aung Hliang to stop the violence, release political prisoners, and open the country to humanitarian aid.



Indonesian President Joko Widodo, aka "Jokowi," implored, "Violence must be stopped. Democracy, stability and peace in Myanmar must return immediately. The interests of Myanmar's people must be a priority." Indonesia, a regional powerhouse along with Singapore and Malaysia, has pushed for a wider role to stop the crisis in Myanmar which has seen more than 730 killed by the military junta.



Malaysia moreover advanced a plan including de-escalation of violence on the ground and an end to killing and violence against civilians.



But Thailand, a key country bordering Myanmar and having extensive commercial ties with the resource-rich country, was notable by its absence at the ASEAN meeting. Why? Thailand is itself ruled by a military regime and not anxious to rock the political boat. Thailand's political ambivalence is shameful.



Many observers no longer see the traditional military coup which quickly establishes control after a spasm of shocking of brute force. Now rather a sustained social media energized opposition from emboldened civil society as well as Myanmar's ethnic separatist armies all seem to oppose the coup.



The Tatmadaw, the powerful but shadowy military force which has controlled the country on and off since 1962, confronts what could be a situation roughly similar to Syria a decade ago where a powerful regime was challenged by a growing insurrection unleashing a civilian bloodbath and refugee outflow. Such a confrontation in beleaguered Myanmar is becoming possible as violence has not abated.



Sadly the U.N. Security Council has long been deadlocked on the Myanmar crisis and thus has not been able to exercise its mandate. As late as 2009 China and Russia used a rare double veto to stop a human rights resolution sponsored by the U.S. and the United Kingdom. Recent Security Council attempts to revive a Myanmar peace process have fallen on fallow ground.



In the months following the recent coup, China has offered predictable diplomatic support for its longtime ally in Myanmar. Nonetheless in the aftermath of the coup, which some observers say Beijing had a hand in, the Chinese communists now have become decidedly nervous that the Tatmadaw has still not fully consolidated political power and control inside Myanmar.



Interestingly Russia too has openly allied itself with Myanmar's Tatmadaw, sending high ranking military brass to lavish Army Day celebrations in March.



That may be one reason why U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stated, "Today, ASEAN's role is more crucial than ever as the region faces an urgent crisis in Myanmar." He added that the U.N.'s special envoy for Myanmar stood ready to resume dialogue with the junta and "to contribute to a return of Myanmar to the democratic paths and to peace and stability."





Since the military coup Myanmar's popular democratically elected leader Aung San Su Kyi has been arrested and the parliament suspended. In the meantime a kind of "shadow government," known as the National Unity Government, said ASEAN's statement was "encouraging news." The democratic dissidents added, "We look forward to firm action by ASEAN to follow up its decisions and restore our democracy and freedom."



Returning to the Syria-style scenario for a moment let's look at what can happen. In 2017, the Myanmar government (then still led by civilians) began a systematic plan to expel members of the Muslim minority from the largely Buddhist country. Over 800,000 Rohingya were displaced and still largely live in squalid camps in neighboring Bangladesh.



Myanmar's population of 54 million is roughly double Syria's. Now imagine if the civil conflict expands; will large flows of refugees, many of them ethnic minorities, flee Myanmar into neighboring Thailand or India creating a humanitarian catastrophe?



Equally will an armed insurgency inside Myanmar expand seeing serious clashes between the opposition and the military? It's time for Myanmar to step back from the brink.





John J. Metzler (jjmcolumn@earthlink.net) is a United Nations correspondent covering diplomatic and defense issues. He is the author of "Divided Dynamism  The Diplomacy of Separated Nations: Germany, Korea, China."


ST. LOUIS, May 03, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Stifel Financial Corp. (NYSE: SF) today announced that Dr. Benjamin Ola. Akande will join the firm as Director of Human Resources, Diversity and Inclusion. Based in the firms St. Louis headquarters, Dr. Akande will head Stifels Human Resources department.



The hiring of Benjamin is another important step in the growth of Stifel as our ability to recruit individuals like Dr. Akande illustrates just how attractive our platform has become, said Ronald J. Kruszewski, Chairman & CEO of Stifel Financial. A priority of ours has been to identify and hire exceptionally talented leaders. Throughout his impressive career, Benjamin has consistently demonstrated the ability to connect with diverse constituencies throughout the public, private, and non-profit sectors and I cant think of a better individual to oversee Stifels Human Resources department and champion diversity and inclusion initiatives across the firm.

Dr. Akande has an extensive career that spans both academia and the private sector. Dr. Akande most recently served as the President of Champlain College in Burlington, Vermont. He was Assistant Vice Chancellor of International Programs-Africa, Director of the Africa Initiative, and Associate Director of the Global Health Center at Washington University in St. Louis from 2018-2020. Prior to that, he was President of Westminster College from 2015  2017. Dr. Akande was a professor of economics and dean of the George Herbert Walker School of Business & Technology at Webster University from 2000-2015. He also served as Chief of University Corporate Partnerships and established relationships with organizations and industries across the globe. In the private sector, Dr. Akande is a respected economist and has consulted for Fortune 500 companies in areas of strategy, leadership development, corporate responsibility, and market positioning. He has served as a director of Ralcorp Holdings, Inc. and consulted for corporations such as Anheuser-Busch, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Voith, and SeaWorld. Dr. Akande also served on the Board of Argent Capital.

As a long-time St. Louis resident, I have admired Stifels 130-year history of steadfast, responsible, financial leadership and growth. I am humbled to join a strong organization and look forward to further empowering our human resource core in a manner that will inspire the many globally diverse communities we serve to reach their financial goals, said Dr. Akande. It will be an honor to work with and support my new colleagues across our global offices, as we build a workforce for the future to further establish Stifels customer and shareholder successes.

Dr. Akande, a Nigerian American, holds a Ph.D. in Economics from the University of Oklahoma and completed post-doctoral studies at JFK School of Government, Harvard University and Said Business School at Oxford University.

Stifel Company Information

Stifel Financial Corp. (NYSE: SF) is a financial services holding company headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, that conducts its banking, securities, and financial services business through several wholly owned subsidiaries. Stifels broker-dealer clients are served in the United States through Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated, including its Eaton Partners business division; Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, Inc.; Miller Buckfire & Co., LLC and Century Securities Associates, Inc. The Companys broker-dealer affiliates provide securities brokerage, investment banking, trading, investment advisory, and related financial services to individual investors, professional money managers, businesses, and municipalities. Stifel Bank and Stifel Bank & Trust offer a full range of consumer and commercial lending solutions. Stifel Trust Company, N.A. and Stifel Trust Company Delaware, N.A. offer trust and related services. To learn more about Stifel, please visit the Companys website at www.stifel.com. For global disclosures, please visit https://www.stifel.com/investor-relations/press-releases.

Investor Relations Contact

Joel Jeffrey, (212) 271-3610

investorrelations@stifel.com
The Indonesian Navy recently lost a submarine that sank off the coast of Bali which was found split into three pieces on the seabed, killing all the 53 sailors on board. The submarine KRI Nanggala 402 disappeared after it requested permission to dive during a live torpedo firing drill. The ill-fated Nanggala, like all submarines in peacetime, trains for war as effectively as possible, in the knowledge that this will contribute to its prevention.

The KRI Nanggala 402 was a Cakra class submarine of Type 209/1300 attack submarines developed by Howaldtswerke-Deutsche Werft of Germany that were bought and commissioned by the Indonesian Navy in the 1980s. In 2012, the 44-year-old Nanggala underwent a midlife refit to extend its serviceability for a few more years.

Submarines have pressure hulls, which withstand the hydrostatic pressure at the depth at which the submarine is designed to operate. Each submarine hull is designed to withstand the pressure up to a certain depth beyond which it would simply crush due to the hydrostatic force at that depth. For this reason, every submarine has a diving depth. Generally, the thickness of the hull and the type of material decide the maximum crushing depth of the submarine.

Similarly, in the case of the Indonesian submarine, it was suspected to have a power failure which resulted in the failure of some control system and therefore, may have lost control and sunk beyond its crushing depth. It is highly impractical for a submarine to be designed to withstand a pressure of up to 730 metres of water. This was what would have led to the submarine hull being broken into three pieces as preliminary findings indicate.

The underwater environment is a dangerous one and therefore submarines face many perils of the deep. Even a small fire or gas leak inside a submerged submarine can have catastrophic consequences. A collision with another vessel or grounding may be much more serious.

Very few submarines have been fitted with escape pods, but if sailors are trapped in a sunken submarine there are other ways of getting them out safely. Locks allow submariners to escape by first climbing through an inner door or hatch and sealing it tightly behind themselves. They then partially flood the small volume before the outer hatch swings open, but this two-door system means they do not need to flood the entire boat. Some navies have special mini-submarines small enough to fit aboard an airplane. These can be quickly flown to a sunken submarine and used to rescue the crew.

Several of the 40-odd countries which operate submarines including France, Israel, India and China have had their share of losses due to underwater accidents. However, given the sizes of the US and Russian submarine fleets and the intensity of their underwater operations, these two countries have suffered the most tragedies.

In August 2000, the Russian nuclear-powered submarine K-141 Kursk vanished in the Barents Sea. Russian authorities later determined that the vessel sank after a torpedo on board unexpectedly exploded. The first blast then triggered the explosion of several other warheads.

In April 1963, the USS Thresher, an atomic submarine, sank in the Atlantic Ocean, killing its entire crew of 129 sailors and civilians when the submarine unexpectedly plunged to the seabed roughly 300 miles off the coast of New England. In between these two losses, several nations have suffered severe underwater tragedies.

The Nanggala is similar to the Shishumar class submarines of the Indian Navy and is from the same German manufacturer. The Indian Navy commissioned its first submarine INS Kalvari in December 1967 and initially, the INS Nistar served as a submarine rescue vessel since 1971.

Thereafter from 1989, the INS Nireekshak functioned as a diving support vessel and as an interim submarine rescue vessel. Only in December 2018, the Indian Navy inducted two Deep Submergence Rescue Vessels to tackle the challenges of its underwater fleet.

In the case of the Nanggala, regional naval cooperation was possible due to the initiative of the International Submarine Escape and Rescue Liaison Office (ISMERLO) efforts. The ISMERLO is an organisation that aims to facilitate an international response for a distressed submarine and to improve the ability to respond to calls for assistance through its coordination role.

Though ISMERLO is a NATO organisation, it supports all submarine operating nations with a humanitarian objective to save lives at sea. It issued an alert to coordinate the rescue of the disabled Indonesian submarine and the Indian, Singaporean and Malaysian navies swung into action to contribute their mite. The Indian and Singaporean navies deployed their underwater rescue vehicles to get visual confirmation of the wreckage.

(The writer is Secretary, Institute of Contemporary Studies Bengaluru and a former Professor of International Relations and Strategic Studies, Christ Deemed to be University, Bengaluru)
By Elizabeth Kwiatkowski, 05/03/2021



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ANGELA AND MICHAEL

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TIFFANY AND RONALD

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BRANDON AND JULIA

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ELIZABETH AND ANDREI

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KALANI AND ASUELU

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MIKE AND NATALIE

Elizabeth Kwiatkowski is Associate Editor of Reality TV World and has been covering the reality TV genre for more than a decade.

: Happily Ever After?'s sixth season featured Tiffany Franco admitting she may want a divorce from Ronald Smith Elizabeth Potthast 's brother Charlie flipping out over Andrei Castravet joining the family business, Asuelu Pulaa insisting he's a changed man, Julia Trubkina accusing Brandon Gibbs of not supporting her dreams, and Natalie Mordovtseva claiming a woman sent Mike Youngquist a naked photo during Sunday night's episode on TLC.The new Happily Ever After? season stars Season 8 couples Mike Youngquist , a 35-year-old from Sequim, WA, and Natalie Mordovtseva , a 36-year-old from Kyiv, Ukraine; Brandon, a 28-year-old pest-control technician who helps to run his parents' farm in Dinwiddie, VA, and Julia, a 27-year-old go-go club dancer from Krasnodar City, Russia; and Jovi Dufren , a 29-year-old from New Orleans, LA, and Yara Zaya , a 25-year-old from Ukraine.The show also stars three returning Happily Ever After? Season 5 couples: Angela, a 54-year-old Hazlehurst, GA, and Michael, a 32-year-old from Lagos, Nigeria; Kalani Faagata , a 32-year-old from Washington, UT, and Asuelu, a 25-year-old from Utulaelae, Samoa; and Elizabeth, a 30-year-old from Tampa, FL, and Andrei, a 34-year-old from Chisinau, Moldova.In addition, Season 1 : The Other Way couple Tiffany, a 29-year-old from Frederick, MD, and Ronald, a 31-year-old from South Africa, are Season 6 Happily Ever After? cast members.Happily Ever After? documents married couples navigating life, hardships, family, children and unexpected obstacles.The new season is likely to document cultural differences, in-law arguments, scandals, confrontations and tears.Below is the latest on several couples, according to the second episode of : Happily Ever After?'s sixth season.Angela had arrived in Los Angeles to undergo her weight-loss surgery, and she said she couldn't wait to look 20 years younger.Angela checked in with Michael via FaceTime and he continued to try to talk her out of having the surgery, but Angela wanted to work on herself and her health before reuniting with Michael again, either in Nigeria or hopefully America.Angela said if Michael really wanted to do something for himself, she'd be "right there beside him," and so she was a little disappointed her husband wasn't being more supportive and compassionate.Angela was then shown meeting with a bariatric surgeon, Dr. Samuel Kashani, for a consultation in Beverly Hills. Angela said she would only work with the best and this was ultimately a test for the doctor.Angela admitted she had eaten some solid foods and smoked a few cigarettes while in L.A. when she wasn't supposed to do either and so she hoped she wouldn't get into too much trouble.Dr. Kashani reminded Angela that smoking is "a huge risk" that can cause decreased blood flow and an increase of infection that could eventually lead to death. Angela's cigarettes -- which she kept in her bra -- were therefore taken away.Angela learned she wouldn't be able to have the surgery if she kept smoking, and she admitted she was "in hell." Angela also discovered going under general anesthesia at her weight is risky and she could face heart attack, stroke, blood clots and more.Dr. Kashani asked Angela to exercise and "tone up" before the procedure. Angela also never thought about needing skin-removal surgery after losing the weight.Angela worried Michael would arrive in the U.S. and she'd have loose skin and look "like an 80 year old woman." Angela started questioning whether she should go through with the weight-loss surgery at all.Angela then met with a handsome plastic surgeon, Dr. Michael Obeng, whom she flirted with at her consultation. Angela -- who wondered if Dr. Obeng was single and thought he smelled good -- joked, "I don't know if the universe is trying to give me a gift or get my ass into trouble."Dr. Obeng told Angela that she'd probably lose 40 to 50 pounds and so she'd have loose skin under her chin, around her breasts and more. The doctor discussed Angela having a breast reduction and lift as well as liposuction to remove extra skin.Dr. Obeng said he tried to keep it professional but he considered Angela to be a beautiful woman.Angela said Michael liked her breasts the way they are and so she worried about changing them. Dr. Obeng said they could address the skin on Angela's stomach, thighs and more once she reached her weight-loss goal."My family is already worried to death about just the weight-loss surgery. Now I've got to tell them that I've got more news for them, and oh God, it seems like it never ends," Angela lamented in a confessional.Tiffany was shown doing a makeup tutorial via Zoom while taking care of her 10-year-old son Daniel from a previous relationship and one-year-old daughter Carley whom she welcomed with Ronald.When Carley was three months old, Tiffany said she was able to book tickets to South Africa so Ronald could meet his daughter for the first time. Tiffany recalled it being a magical moment, but she said that soon after that, Ronald became "very hot and cold" about eventually moving to the United States.Ronald had told Tiffany that he didn't want to waste money trying for another visa -- given he had been denied a K-1 visa before due to his criminal record -- but then Tiffany revealed she went ahead and applied for a spousal CR-1 visa for Ronald."We still haven't heard anything back, and so Ronald is still in South Africa. COVID has really put my marriage through the wringer," Tiffany explained."The last time Ronald and I were physically together, it was eight months ago, and I am all alone -- left to face everything and be responsible for everything. Ronald, right now, is not emotionally supportive and he's not financially supportive."Tiffany said Ronald never offered to send money for clothes or diapers, and Tiffany vented, "I didn't make this baby alone!"Tiffany was then shown meeting with an attorney and said she was expecting a response for the spousal visa in one to three months.Tiffany admitted she was no longer sure if she wanted to make things work with Ronald because she was allegedly the only person trying in their relationship."I have moments when I wonder if this marriage is right for me," Tiffany confessed. "Ronald doesn't know this, but I think I want a divorce."Tiffany explained to the cameras a lot had happened over the past couple months and she almost felt stuck in the relationship. Tiffany clearly wasn't happy, and she said it was really hard being on her home with her husband in a different country.Tiffany cried to her attorney, Christopher Role, about the "struggle" she was facing. She said she had reached "a breaking point" and feared there was "no other choice but to get divorced."Tiffany didn't want to continue feeling miserable every day, and she worried things would only get worse once Ronald arrived in the United States.Christopher advised Tiffany not to take divorce lightly because the process would be challenging, and so he suggested the couple should go through therapy and counseling first.Christopher asked Tiffany to think about whether she'd be better off with or without Ronald in her life."In order for me to think this could work out long-term, I need Ronald to get a job. I need Ronald to save money and I need Ronald to put in as much effort as I'm putting in," Tiffany explained, adding that she could no longer fund her family and baby her husband."This will no longer be all on me," she added.Meanwhile, Ronald said he was sad and lonely to be away from his family and was hoping for the best. Ronald was shown buying some stuffed animals for his kids, and he looked forward to spending time with his kids again.Ronald anticipated a family visit soon and then moving to America to be with his wife and children. Ronald then painted a room with his friend Rowan and revealed he and Tiffany had been fighting a lot and she tended to use his past against him.Ronald insisted he was making "small strides" and "ends meet" by doing odd jobs since overcoming his gambling addiction. Ronald said Tiffany didn't trust that he was trying to do his best in South Africa."It's not easy having a wife who is always doubting that you are doing the right thing," Ronald explained. "I want Tiffany to see that I can be the husband I know I can be for her and this family."Tiffany had bought tickets to visit Ronald in South Africa in one month, but she said her travel plans were pending due to coronavirus.Suddenly, Tiffany revealed to Ronald on Zoom she had decided to cancel her family's plane tickets. Tiffany said it wasn't fair she was always paying for things and never receiving anything."If you want us to come, then buy the tickets," Tiffany told Ronald, adding, "You should say, 'Baby, I want to help you!'"Tiffany reminded Ronald that he had spent $3,000 to fix his motorcycle instead of helping his children, but Ronald reminded his wife that his money wasn't worth much in the U.S.Tiffany insisted that she was killing herself, but Ronald disagreed. Ronald also said it was emotionally draining for him that he couldn't watch his children grow up and witness milestones, such as Carley's first steps or first words."It's really heartbreaking to see Carley grow up through a screen. It's unbearable," Ronald told the cameras.Tiffany told the cameras if Ronald didn't start helping and paying more for their children then their marriage wasn't going to work out.Julia gushed about how Las Vegas is amazing and beautiful, and she said she could really see herself living there. However, Brandon had shut down the idea of moving to Vegas with his wife, and Julia said she was concerned Brandon may was "the farm life" forever.Julia hoped to change Brandon's mind before returning to his parents' farm.Julia admitted she's a jealous person, and she was shown getting angry at Brandon for allegedly checking out a busty waitress by the pool. Julia said she trusted Brandon but didn't trust other women around him.While Brandon was taking some sexy pictures of Julia in the pool, his mother Betty called to inform the couple paperwork had arrived for Julia in the mail.Brandon allowed Betty to open the letter, which invited Julia to her first interview for her permanent resident status in the United States. It was an interview so Julia could ultimately obtain her Green Card.Brandon said he had done a lot of work to get Julia to live in America permanently, and the couple just hoped the process would go smoothly and quickly. Julia said she wanted to start working and making money, and Brandon never wanted his wife to have to leave him.Brandon told Julia that they should just enjoy their vacation and worry about her status in the U.S. later.While enjoying drinks out later on, Julia asked again to move to Las Vegas, but Brandon said, "No." He said they should start in Richmond, VA, and maybe move somewhere else afterwards.Julia said living in Richmond would be fine but she hoped Brandon would continue to look forward and not break any of his promises. Julia was proud of herself for compromising with her husband.Julia wanted to start working as soon as possible, like maybe a designer job, but Brandon worried her broken English might hold her back from many job positions. Julia wished Brandon would support her more and not put her down."I'm scared Brandon [will] never move to the big city and we stay where we stay right now and I never have [a] job. This hurts me because I don't want this life. This [is] not [the] life I pictured before," Julia told the cameras.Julia yelled at Brandon for not supporting her and for trying to break her dreams, but Brandon said he was just trying to be realistic and reasonable."I'm trying to suggest things that would help her and I think she takes that as I'm not being supportive, and that hurts," Brandon said in a confessional."Julia views my realistic view on things as pessimistic, but sometimes I think she's also just too much of a dreamer and she may want to bump down her expectations."Elizabeth was shown getting ready for a family business meeting at her sister Becky's house to discuss bringing Andrei in the family's real estate and house flipping business. Chuck started off the conversation by mocking Andrei's accent, and Elizabeth immediately flipped out.Elizabeth said it would be better to not have Andrei there in order to avoid confrontation.Elizabeth hoped to win her family members over, but she anticipated her siblings Jenn and Charlie might be furious upon hearing Andrei had asked their father Chuck for a $100,000 loan.Andrei admitted he didn't want to work with the whole family and just wished he could work with Chuck, but Elizabeth explained it was a close family business and he must cross paths with her siblings often.Andrei noted it was going to be "very difficult to build a relationship" with Charlie after Charlie nearly tried to ruin the couple's wedding in Moldova by making a confrontational and disrespectful speech.Andrei wished Chuck's "favorite daughter" luck, but Elizabeth was pretty sure she'd be able to get her way since she was apparently used to that.Everyone flipped out once they heard about Andrei's loan request, and Chuck insisted he had no intention to give Andrei that kind of money.Becky and Jenn realized Andrei wanted to start working and provide for his family, but at the same time, they had been working their way up in the family business to provide for their own children and spouses."He's trying to take the easy way out," Jenn complained.Becky and Jenn told Chuck that they'd be willing to show him the ropes and give him a chance, but Charlie was still waiting for an apology and wasn't about to let Andrei into the family business with open arms."I've got one thing to say: f-ck him. If he wants to do this, earn it!" Charlie yelled.Elizabeth, feeling upset and defeated, then stormed out of the house. Elizabeth said her husband was trying to do what's best for his family and there was nothing wrong with that.Elizabeth cried and wished her family would just give Andrei a chance because she told Becky that Andrei really wanted to apply himself. Elizabeth hated how her family made fun of and belittled Andrei right in front of her.Becky said she could understand where Elizabeth was coming from, but Becky told the cameras that Andrei didn't approach things the right way and handle situations correctly.Charlie demanded that Andrei must start at the bottom and work his way up because Andrei seemingly didn't appreciate all the work they had done in the business beforehand.Charlie told Elizabeth, who was already in tears, that Andrei needed to earn their trust.Becky yelled at Charlie to "chill the f-ck out," but Jenn said the conversation brought back some bad feelings given Chuck had just paid for Elizabeth and Andrei's huge wedding in Moldova.Charlie apologized to Elizabeth and hugged her, but Elizabeth said she was tired of Charlie taking "things to the next level" and not acting professionally."I've already made up my mind. I'm going to bring [Andrei] in and I want you guys to work with him," Chuck announced to the group, before asking Charlie to meet with Andrei and squash their beef.Charlie said he'd be willing to do anything to help Chuck but he wouldn't allow Andrei to take advantage of anyone. Elizabeth acknowledged there were still hard feelings and she wasn't even sure Andrei would agree to meet with Charlie.Elizabeth worried about Andrei and Charlie being put in the same room.Once Elizabeth returned home to Andrei, she revealed that Chuck was going to allow Andrei to work for him although her siblings all had their own opinions. Elizabeth suggested Andrei should meet with Charlie and discuss the future, but Andrei refused."I have literally been in a battle for you for so many years, and I am so over it. I have done so much... and I am mentally drained and exhausted," Elizabeth complained. "Why can't you guys just find a common ground?"Andrei said he was never going to kiss Charlie's ass, but Elizabeth reminded her husband that he must work with Charlie in the family business.Andrei told the cameras he wanted to start his own business in order to avoid Charlie. Andrei just wished Chuck would give him $100,000."I'm talking to Chuck and I'm not talking to anybody else," Andrei shouted.Elizabeth desperately wanted her husband and family to get along, and she said she was too tired to fight and continuing to defend her husband. Elizabeth said Andrei needed to make concessions so they could move forward and she wouldn't have to be his advocate anymore.Kalani said Asuelu was acting better and helping out more with their kids. Asuelu said he was trying to be a better man and was excited about the future of their relationship.Kalani and Asuelu enjoyed some alone time at a crepes restaurant, but she had yet to tell Asuelu that her sister Kolini was going to live with them for a little while.Kalani anticipated the news would piss Asuelu off and change his mood since the couple wasn't ready to move out of her parents' house yet.Asuelu said Kalani should have told him this news earlier because he would have liked to make Kolini feel welcome by making her food and putting out flowers.Asuelu's reaction was weird in Kalani's mind because he had called her sister "a b-tch" at their last reunion, but Asuelu insisted he was a new man and he and Kolini would have a fresh start with forgiveness granted.Asuelu cried to his wife, "I hope you realize that I'm changing for good and not for bad."Kalani gushed about being happy because she wanted everyone to get along as well as Asuelu staying happy and calm during difficult conversations. Asuelu said he hoped for the best and just wanted to move forward and take care of his family."I hope both of our families will come closer," Asuelu noted.Kalani was glad Asuelu was being supportive and accommodating, but she said she wasn't sure if Asuelu was being sincere and honest because he had tricked and manipulated her in the past with his tears. Kalani therefore intended to proceed with caution.On Mike's 36th birthday, Natalie apparently set up a little sushi dinner for Mike in their hotel room, including a bottle of champagne. She said ever since Mike had agreed to wear a wedding ring, he had been very good.Mike said he was excited to bring Natalie over to his mother Trish's house for Thanksgiving, and Natalie offered to cook a dish and share some of her recipes with Mike's mother.Natalie admitted in a confessional it was hard to act like nothing had happened with Trish in the past and just forgive her, especially considering Trish had attempted to put a stop to their wedding.However, Natalie put on a brave face for Mike and acted like she was looking forward to the reunion. Natalie also hoped to meet some of Mike's friends since she hadn't yet.Mike admitted to Natalie she could come across as "harsh" sometimes and couldn't just attack people. Mike said his friends are polite and family oriented."Maybe they shouldn't send naked pictures to you, then I will be polite," Natalie snapped.Mike angrily left the dinner, which was supposed to be a birthday celebration.Natalie claimed a girl from Nevada had sent Mike a picture of her breasts.Want more spoilers or couples updates? Click here to visit our homepage!
South Africa: Pandor to attend G7 ministerial meeting

International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor, is set to attend the Group of Seven (G7) Foreign and Development Ministerial meeting in the United Kingdom.

The two-day meeting will get underway in London on Tuesday.

In a statement, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), said the meeting will discuss the promotion and defending of open societies, leading a sustainable recovery through championing action on climate change as well as famine prevention among others.

The G7 Foreign and Development meeting is one of seven Ministerial tracks of the G7 and in the context of the current global health crisis, the meeting and Summit will focus on building back from the COVID-19 pandemic, said the department.

The meeting will be held in preparation for the G7 Leaders Summit, scheduled to take place in Cornwall, South-West England, from 11 to 13 June 2021. Minister Pandor will be attending alongside the Ministers of Australia and South Korea as guests.

Minister Pandor is attending the meeting at the invitation of Mr Dominic Raab, the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Developmental Affairs of the United Kingdom, said the DIRCO.

On the margins of the meeting, the Minister will hold several bilateral meetings with her counterparts. - SAnews.gov.za

This story has been published on: 2021-05-03. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Amanda Burke covers Pittsfield City Hall for The Berkshire Eagle. An Ithaca, New York native, she previously worked at The Herald News of Fall River and the Fitchburg Sentinel & Enterprise. Find her on Twitter at @amandaburkec.
Belleville, Illinois, May 03, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- As the U.S. emerges from the coronavirus pandemic, the country is beginning to understand the long-term impact on those with disabilities. Whether faced with COVID-19 aftereffects, delayed medical treatments, accidents or progressive illnesses, even more people with severe physical or mental conditions could be seeking Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits in the near term, reports Allsup, the nations premier disability representation company.

That process, however, is as stressful and complex as ever for those 2 million people who apply for SSDI benefits, according to T.J. Geist, principal advocate for Allsup. In 2020, the Social Security Administration (SSA) denied 61% of SSDI initial applicants, most of whom applied without professional assistance, he said.

Every level of the SSDI process is tough, but those who have experienced representatives to tell their story for them when they first apply or appeal for disability benefits will fare much better, Geist added.

Allsup representatives have helped over 350,000 customers secure SSDI benefits for more than 37 years. For example, more than 50% of our customers will get their benefits when first applying, and more than 70% of those we represent at a hearing level appeal will get their benefits, Geist said.

How do you hire a disability representative? Geist recommends asking seven key questions.

1. Will you represent me when I first apply for SSDI benefits?

Most representatives dont provide help at the initial application level where only 39% on average are approved for benefits. But, having an experienced representative early in the process increases your opportunity to get benefits approved early and may save you months, if not years, of waiting through appeals. For example, to improve your potential for an early approval, Allsup confirms you meet complicated work rules and medical requirements.

2. What specific activities will you undertake on my behalf?

Trained and compassionate advocates, such as Allsup, are skilled at telling your story and keeping the SSA on its collective toes. Expert representatives monitor, anticipate and stop problems; correct mistakes; and ensure your past work, medical information and the impact of your disability on your daily life are accurate, understood and properly considered. Being available and responsive is valuable to many: Allsup has a 97% customer satisfaction rating.

Some useful questions to ask when seeking representation include:

What specifically will you do to build my case?

Will you communicate with the SSA directly on my behalf?

Will you contact my doctors to assist in collecting or updating medical records as needed?

Will you charge me for expenses, such as electronic filing or photocopying, medical records or travel?

Will you help me coordinate my SSDI benefits with my private disability insurance or other benefits?

3. Does your organization have experience representing someone with my type of disability?

Not all disabilities are alike, and some are now complicated even more by long-haul COVID-19 symptoms and recent changes in how certain disabilities are assessed by the SSA. When thorough medical information is provided about a specific condition in the language mandated by the SSA, SSDI applications are at less risk of being rejected immediately. Allsups expert representatives offer tools and guidance to do this effectively, minimizing delays.

4-5. Will I have to attend any hearings, and whats your role?

If you are denied at both the initial application and reconsideration levels, you may request a hearing before an administrative law judge (ALJ). Currently, hearings are occurring only by video or telephone, which require special preparation compared to the usual in-person hearings. An experienced representative will gather relevant medical and vocational information and prepare a well-written brief for the judge. They will manage scheduling and communication with SSA. They will also help prepare you for your testimony and may ask questions of the governments witnesses. Occasionally, a hearing is avoided if the representative asks for and is granted an on-the-record decision. In these cases, the ALJ may choose to make a determination without a formal hearing.

6. What is your success rate?

Not every representative or organization keeps track of its own success rates, and if they dont, this could be a red flag. Keep in mind that when all is said and done, only about one-third of all people who apply for SSDI benefits will actually obtain them. You want to make sure your representative has a history of success.

7. What is the fee for representation?

All representation fees are set by law and if you dont get your benefits, there is no fee. Currently, the fee is 25% of the retroactive dollar amount received when benefits are approved  not to exceed $6,000. Those who are approved quickly at the application level typically pay much less. Representatives should not charge you for photocopies, medical records or travel expenses related to your case.

When all the questions are asked and answered, how do you make sure you choose the right representative? Consider the sense of confidence and trust that you feel after speaking with a potential representation organization, Geist said. Will there be a team supporting you? Do they seem genuinely interested in you and your story?

Most important, will they fight for you? The more confidence you and your advocate have in each other, the more likely you both can succeed.

If you or someone you know may be eligible for Social Security disability benefits, visit FileSSDI.Allsup.com for a free assessment.

ABOUT ALLSUP

Allsup and its subsidiaries provide nationwide Social Security disability, veterans disability appeal, return to work, and healthcare benefits services for individuals, their employers and insurance carriers. Allsup professionals deliver specialized services supporting people with disabilities and seniors so they may lead lives that are as financially secure and as healthy as possible. Founded in 1984, the company is based in Belleville, Illinois, near St. Louis. Learn more at Allsup.com and @Allsup or download a free PDF of Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance: Getting It Right The First Time.

Attachment
WESTPORT, Conn., May 03, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- HMG Strategy, the Worlds #1 digital platform for enabling technology executives to reimagine the enterprise and reshape the business world, is excited to be hosting its 2021 HMG Live! New York CISO Executive Leadership Summit on May 6. HMG Strategys highly interactive digital events bring together the worlds most distinguished and innovative business technology leaders to discuss the most pressing leadership, strategic, cultural, technology and career challenges and opportunities that technology executives face today  and into the future.



The 2021 HMG Live! New York CISO Executive Leadership Summit will focus on the new skill sets needed to protect the enterprise in the evolving threat landscape, along with how CISOs and security teams need to apply a fresh lens to supply chain vulnerabilities and third-party risk.

Were in an entirely new environment today, and as the threat landscape continues to grow in complexity, CISOs and security leaders need to think differently and develop and acquire new types of skills to safeguard the enterprise, said Hunter Muller, President and CEO of HMG Strategy.

HMG Strategy is also excited to have special guest speaker and bestselling author Stephen M.R. Covey share his insights on why a high-trust culture can operate with greater efficiency and at less cost along with recommendations for CIOs and technology executives to cultivate trust with the CEO, the Board and across the organization.

Prominent technology executives speaking at this event will include:

Roota Almeida , CISO, Delta Dental of New Jersey and Connecticut

, CISO, Delta Dental of New Jersey and Connecticut Jim Brennan , Chief Product Officer, BetterCloud

, Chief Product Officer, BetterCloud Allan Foster , Chief Evangelist, ForgeRock

, Chief Evangelist, ForgeRock Monti Knode , Director of Customer Success, Horizon3.ai

, Director of Customer Success, Horizon3.ai Ajoy Kumar , Head of IT Risk Analysis and Reporting, The Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation

, Head of IT Risk Analysis and Reporting, The Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation Min Kyriannis , Managing Director, JMK | EMD

, Managing Director, JMK | EMD David Mahon , Global CISO, Deloitte

, Global CISO, Deloitte Peter Margaris , Sr. Director, Product Marketing, Skybox Security

, Sr. Director, Product Marketing, Skybox Security Israel Martinez , Industry Advisor, U.S. Department of Homeland Security

, Industry Advisor, U.S. Department of Homeland Security Shamla Naidoo , Managing Partner of IBM Global Security Services, IBM

, Managing Partner of IBM Global Security Services, IBM Matthew Rosenquist , CISO, Eclipz.io

, CISO, Eclipz.io David Sheidlower , VP, Chief Information Security & Privacy Officer, Turner Construction Company

, VP, Chief Information Security & Privacy Officer, Turner Construction Company J.R. Tietsort , CISO, Darktrace

, CISO, Darktrace Tommy Todd , VP of Security, Code42

, VP of Security, Code42 Mike Towers , Chief Security Officer, Takeda Pharmaceuticals International, Inc.

, Chief Security Officer, Takeda Pharmaceuticals International, Inc. Saby Waraich, CIO, Clackamas Community College; Marketing Director, SIM Portland

Valued partners for the 2021 HMG Live! New York CISO Executive Leadership Summit on May 6 will include Auth0, BetterCloud, Code42, Darktrace, Forescout Technologies, ForgeRock, Globant, Horizon3.ai, Illumio, Ivanti, PagerDuty, Palo Alto Networks, RingCentral, Rubrik, SafeGuard Cyber, SIM New York Metro, Skybox Security, Sonatype, and Zscaler.

To learn more about the 2021 HMG Live! New York CISO Executive Leadership Summit and to register for the event, click here .

HMG Strategy will also be hosting its 2021 HMG Live! Washington, D.C. CIO Executive Leadership Summit on May 11. Topics to be explored at this event will include the types of roles that CIOs and tech leaders can play in reimagining the business and the future of work, along with recommendations on how to accelerate company success through advanced technologies and partnership that are enabling competitive differentiation and speed to market.

Top-tier CIOs and technology executives speaking at this event will include:

Bharat Amin, Executive Vice President & CIO, Huntington Ingalls Industries

Executive Vice President & CIO, Huntington Ingalls Industries Judith Apshago , VP IT, Corporate and Operations Technologies, Amtrak

, VP IT, Corporate and Operations Technologies, Amtrak Tyler Best , SVP & CIO, Adient

, SVP & CIO, Adient Michael Cannon , CTO, Stafford County, VA

, CTO, Stafford County, VA Francisco Fraga , Chief Technology and Information Officer, Campbell Soup Company

, Chief Technology and Information Officer, Campbell Soup Company Neil Green , SVP and Chief Digital Officer, OTIS

, SVP and Chief Digital Officer, OTIS Kristie Grinnell , Global CIO & Chief Supply Chain Officer, VP, General Dynamics IT

, Global CIO & Chief Supply Chain Officer, VP, General Dynamics IT Mike Huthwaite , Founder & CIO at Large, Huthwaite & Associates

, Founder & CIO at Large, Huthwaite & Associates Wanda Jones-Heath , CISO/DAF Principal Cyber Advisor, United States Air Force

, CISO/DAF Principal Cyber Advisor, United States Air Force Stuart Kippelman , CIO, Parsons Corporation

, CIO, Parsons Corporation Israel Martinez , Industry Advisor, U.S. Department of Homeland Security

, Industry Advisor, U.S. Department of Homeland Security Quintin McGrath , Senior Managing Director, Technology Management & Enablement, Global Technology Services, Deloitte

, Senior Managing Director, Technology Management & Enablement, Global Technology Services, Deloitte Boyden Rohner , Associate Director for Vulnerability Management, Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA)

, Associate Director for Vulnerability Management, Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) Chris Stettler, CIO, Euclid Systems Corporation

Valued partners for the 2021 HMG Live! Washington, D.C. CIO Executive Leadership Summit on May 11 will include Auth0, Darktrace, Forescout Technologies, Globant, Horizon3.ai, Illumio, Ivanti, PagerDuty, Okta, RingCentral, SafeGuard Cyber, SIMs Capital Area Chapter, Sonatype, and Zscaler.

To learn more about the 2021 HMG Live! Washington, D.C. CIO Executive Leadership Summit on May 11 and to register for the event, click here.

HMG Strategys 2021 HMG Live! Portland CIO Executive Leadership Summit will be held on May 26. Timely topics explored at this event will include the unique insights that women technology executives can offer in terms of reimagining the business and fostering a more inclusive and connected culture and how CISOs can best communicate looming cyber threats and articulate where funding is needed most with the CEO and the Board.

Prominent technology executives speaking at this event include:

Selim Aissi , SVP & CISO, ICE Mortgage Company

, SVP & CISO, ICE Mortgage Company Richard Appleyard , PhD, President, Portland SIM; CIO, Oregon State Police

, PhD, President, Portland SIM; CIO, Oregon State Police Nishant Bhajaria , Global Head of Privacy Engineering and Analytics, Uber

, Global Head of Privacy Engineering and Analytics, Uber Stephanie Franklin-Thomas , VP, CISO, ABM

, VP, CISO, ABM Reet Kaur , CISO, Portland Community College

, CISO, Portland Community College John Kochavatr , VP, Information Technology and Supply Chain, Portland General Electric

, VP, Information Technology and Supply Chain, Portland General Electric Robert Mansell , Principal Technical Fellow, Catalyte

, Principal Technical Fellow, Catalyte Dr. Lee David Mulligan , Sr. VP & CIO, Asante Health System

, Sr. VP & CIO, Asante Health System Deb Muro , CIO, RN, CHCIO, El Camino Health

, CIO, RN, CHCIO, El Camino Health Michelle Soares , VP of Technology, Portland Trail Blazers

, VP of Technology, Portland Trail Blazers Christa Stout , SVP Innovation & Technology, Portland Trail Blazers

, SVP Innovation & Technology, Portland Trail Blazers Cara Turano , Chief Operating Officer, Technology Association of Oregon

, Chief Operating Officer, Technology Association of Oregon Saby Waraich , Director of Marketing, Portland SIM; CIO, Clackamas Community College

, Director of Marketing, Portland SIM; CIO, Clackamas Community College Kate Winkler, CEO, Ruby

Valued partners for the 2021 HMG Live! Portland CIO Executive Leadership Summit will be held on May 26 will include Auth0, Darktrace, DataStax, Forescout Technologies, Globant, Horizon3.ai, Illumio, Ivanti, OutSystems, PagerDuty, RingCentral, SafeGuard Cyber, SIM Portland, Sonatype, Starburst, and Zscaler.

To learn more about HMG Strategys 2021 HMG Live! Portland CIO Executive Leadership Summit and to register for the event, click here.

To learn about HMG Strategys upcoming CIO and CISO Summits, click here .

UPCOMING WEBINARS & DIGITAL ROUNDTABLES

On May 4th, HMG Strategy will be hosting a webinar powered by Softtek on Driving Continuous Value: Why Distributed Agile Teams Get More Done When They Share the Sun. This event, which features a roster of All-Star speakers including Mike Hamilton, Vice President, Head of Information Technology at Databricks; William Miller, SVP & CIO at NetApp; Jaime Palacios, SVP, Digital and Innovation at Softtek; Gary Sorrentino, Global Deputy CIO at Zoom; and Troy Whitlow, SVP, Product Management at Accurate Background, will be focused on best practices and fresh approaches to sourcing and retaining the digital talent thats needed specifically by software, hardware, media and telecom companies to succeed.

To learn more about this webinar and to register for the event, click here.

On May 12, HMG Strategy will be hosting a digital roundtable powered by Code42 on Tackling Insider Risk Without Slowing Down the Business. In this interactive roundtable discussion, speakers Max Chan, CIO at Avnet, Greg Petersen, Senior Director of IT Security at Avanade and Mark Wojtasiak, Vice President of Portfolio Marketing, Research and Strategy at Code42 will explore how the transition to a work-from-anywhere environment has given rise to an increase in insider risk. Well also explore the steps that CISOs and CIOs can take to address these risks without slowing down the business.

To learn more about this roundtable and to register for this interactive discussion, click here.

To learn more about HMG Strategys distinctive executive roundtables and webinars, click here.

ABOUT HMG Strategy

HMG Strategy is the world's leading digital platform for connecting technology executives to reimagine the enterprise and reshape the business world. Our regional and virtual CIO and CISO Executive Leadership Series, authored books and Digital Resource Center deliver unique, peer-driven research from CIOs, CISOs, CTOs and technology executives on leadership, innovation, transformation and career ascent. HMG Strategy also produces the HMG Security Innovation Accelerator Panel, a new webinar series thats designed to connect enterprise CISOs and security leaders with the most innovative cybersecurity companies from across the world.

The HMG Strategy global network consists of over 400,000 senior IT executives, industry experts and world-class thought leaders.

To learn more about the 7 Pillars of Trust for HMG Strategy's unique business model, click here.

Tom Hoffman

203-221-2702

TomHoffman@hmgstrategy.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/8b41d2e2-d58d-479a-8340-1bdd5593be99
Armenias acting Minister of Economy Vahan Kerobyan today received Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Kazakhstan to Armenia Bolat Imanbayev, as reported the Armenian Ministry of Economy.

During the meeting, Kerobyan attached importance to the dynamic development of the Armenian-Kazakh trade and economic cooperation and set aside the sectors of trade, high technologies, manufacturing of solar panels and jewels and agriculture.

The parties discussed the prospects for cooperation between the active and progressive companies in the high technology sector, and Kerobyan raised the issue of logistics issues that are hindering the rapid development of trade and economic relations.

Ambassador Imanbayev informed that, during the political consultations between Armenia and Kazakhstan, both countries attached importance to the restart of direct flights to and from Yerevan and Nur-Sultan and stated that, in this context, the establishment of a wholesale logistics center in Armenia may be considered.

At the end of the meeting, the parties agreed to contribute to the effective and active cooperation between the two countries within the scope of their powers.
Reflections, roundtables and royalty: Thoughts from attending the IUCN Global Youth Summit

A group photo of one session during the IUCN Youth Summit

There are not many reasons I will willingly get out of bed at 5:30 a.m., but the opportunity to make a real difference in the world is one of them.

Recently, I gathered with 13,000 fellow young people from across the globe at the International Union for Conservation of Natures (IUCNs) One Nature, One Future, Global Youth Summit. This 10-day event, unlike anything the conservation community had seen before, was a virtual summit organized by youth, for youth, to talk about issues affecting youth.

The IUCN defines youth as people 1835 years old, which puts me almost exactly at the midpoint of this movement. Halfway through my youth journey is a good time to pause and reflect. I want to be a driver for positive change in the conservation community.

At the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC), I lead eastern Ontarios stewardship team as the coordinator of conservation biology. In my job, I contribute meaningfully and tangibly to the protection of some of Canadas most at-risk species and habitats. Recently, I was honoured to be invited to sit on the Young Professionals Committee of the Canadian Committee for the IUCN (CCIUCN). This national role allows me to engage and empower fellow youth across Canada in their conservation journeys. NCC also has deep connections to the IUCN. We are a member organization, and our own vice-president of conservation policy and planning, Lisa McLaughlin, is the past chair of the CCIUCN board.

Its impossible to sum up the sheer magnitude of the Global Youth Summit in one blog post, but as I reflect on my 10-day journey, I can group my experience into three pillars: learn, speak and act.

Learn

The most electrifying part of the Global Youth Summit was connecting with my peers from all walks of life and corners of the world. The summit offered hundreds of sessions. They took place at all times of the day, in 13 languages, and on a variety of environmentally themed topics. It was impossible to attend everything, as there was always something going on, but I packed my schedule starting at 5:30 a.m. to make sure I could learn as much as possible.

There were topics I directly live and experience every day (like the role of immigrants and women); there were topics Im fiercely passionate about (like storytelling and Indigenous rights); and there were topics Ive never fully considered (like sweatshops and fashion). Through plenary and round-table networking sessions, I learned from a variety of experts, youth leaders and policy makers. There was space for intergenerational dialogue, uncomfortable realization and inspirational storytelling as we celebrated the role youth play in the environmental movement.

Speak

The conference encouraged youth to speak up and have their voices heard. I took full advantage of this and dived passionately into every session I attended.

The feeling of being an imposter is something many youth relate to. We are all at the beginning of our conservation journeys and, unfortunately, there are people out there who dont believe our opinions hold value. So, how do you step up and voice your truth when you feel like an outsider? Its a question Ive wondered for a while, so while on a panel with the Chairs of the IUCN Commissions, I asked them.

The irony of being nervous to ask a question about being nervous to ask questions wasnt lost on me, but I received nothing but supportive, encouraging remarks about being proud of what I contribute. The summit did an excellent job of making space for diverse voices. There was space to celebrate achievements but also room to admit fault and work through challenges.

Throughout the 10 days, my confidence grew, and people from previous sessions started to notice me and reach out. In the panel discussion on empowering women, I asked for advice about navigating the discrimination that often comes with being a young woman who isnt invited to sit at the table. The answer I got was come back in through the window, and bring your own chair.

I spoke with Indigenous knowledge holders, IUCN Commission Chairs, supermodels, youth activists, high school students and politicians. Every voice brought something new to the table. I even had a run-in with royalty. If I think back to where I thought the Global Youth Summit would take me, I can safely say the Princess of Belgium calling out my name and giving me personal life advice wasnt anywhere on the list. This is what the Global Youth Summit gave me, and youth around the world: the opportunity to own our voices and take up space.

Act

Summarizing the Global Youth Summit feels daunting. I could write a novel about each individual session and the reflections Ive had, but thats why this movement is so great. I dont have to do everything, because there are thousands of other young environmental leaders just like me speaking up across the world.

If you are a young professional, take action! Join the YouthCCNetwork, or a relevant Commission of the IUCN, and have your say in the global conservation community. A great place to start is the Young Canadian Professional Network for Conservation. You can find more information here.

If you dont fall into the youth demographic, there is still a lot you can do, including becoming a member of CCIUCN. The leaders of tomorrow need mentors. We need guidance and the space for our voices to be heard. We want to collaborate with you and have an equal seat at the table. Ask yourself, what are you doing to make sure the youth in your life feel their voice is important?

For me, the biggest revelation from the Global Youth Summit is that my opinion matters. To have my voice sit on equal ground with industry experts, royalty and decision makers was powerful. But there is still a lot of work to do to authentically give youth a voice. The Global Youth Summit closed with an important message: This is only the beginning.

Watch for more information on the exciting work NCC and the CCIUCN are doing to advocate for youth. I truly believe that my generation can push the world in a positive direction, and from what Ive seen over the last 10 days, the future is in good hands.
Kendallville, IN (46755)

Today

Showers this morning then scattered thunderstorms developing during the afternoon hours. High 78F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%..

Tonight

Isolated thunderstorms this evening with a few showers possible overnight. Low near 65F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 30%.


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Press release  Paris, May 3, 2021

Former IUF1 General Secretary Ron Oswald

joins Danones Mission Committee

One year ago, Danone became an Entreprise a Mission  a purpose-driven company. This new status is a new step in the pursuit of a model of sustainable value creation for all stakeholders: employees, partners, shareholders, and many more. An independent Mission Committee has been formed and tasked with reviewing and challenging the Companys roadmap and progress particularly on subjects such as health & nutrition, water, agriculture, biodiversity, packaging, social innovation, people and social matters.

Ron Oswalds appointment will allow the Mission Committee to benefit from the insights and experience of one of the most prominent figures in the international trade union movement.

Pascal Lamy, Mission Committee Chair, said:

On behalf of the entire Committee, which I am proud to lead, I want to extend a warm welcome to Ron. We have just released our first report, which shows how much work we have ahead of us and just how vital that work is. We are eager to put Rons experience and clear vision behind our quest to achieve Danones pioneering commitments.

Ron Oswald joined the International Union of Food Workers (IUF) in 1987. He was elected General Secretary in 1997 and served in that capacity until 2017. IUF is a global union federation representing over ten million food workers around the world in 423 independent, democratic unions spanning 127 countries. Under his leadership, IUF set the standard for trade union negotiations among the sectors largest global companies, promoting constant, determined dialog between their management teams and IUF.

Ron Oswald said:

Having been involved as a representative of Danone's international trade union counterpart, the IUF, for 30 years, I am honoured to join this pioneering governance initiative as a member of the Mission Committee. Over the years, I have witnessed Danone's effort to remain faithful to its dual economic and social project and now to its new governance model as a purpose-driven company. I am also deeply humbled to join a group of such committed and distinguished fellow Committee members.

Ron also continues to serve as a senior adviser to IUF and is a major figure in the global trade union movement, heading up work on human rights issues at multinational food and beverage companies.

About Danone (www.danone.com)

Danone is a leading multi-local food and beverage company building on health-focused and fast-growing categories in 3 businesses: Essential Dairy & Plant-Based products, Waters and Specialized Nutrition. With its One Planet. One Health frame of action, which considers the health of people and the planet as intimately interconnected, Danone aims to inspire healthier and more sustainable eating and drinking practices. To accelerate this food revolution and create superior, sustainable, profitable value for all its stakeholders, Danone has defined nine 2030 Goals, and paved the way as the first listed company to adopt the Entreprise a Mission status in France. With a purpose to bring health through food to as many people as possible, and corresponding social, societal and environmental objectives set out in its articles of association, Danone commits to operating in an efficient, responsible and inclusive manner, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations. By 2025, Danone aims to become one of the first multinational companies to obtain B Corp certification. With more than 100,000 employees, and products sold in over 120 markets, Danone generated 23.6 billion in sales in 2020. Danones portfolio includes leading international brands (Actimel, Activia, Alpro, Aptamil, Danette, Danio, Danonino, evian, Nutricia, Nutrilon, Volvic, among others) as well as strong local and regional brands (including AQUA, Bledina, Bonafont, Cow & Gate, Horizon Organic, Mizone, Oikos, Prostokvashino, Silk, Vega). Listed on Euronext Paris and present on the OTCQX market via an ADR (American Depositary Receipt) program, Danone is a component stock of leading sustainability indexes including the ones managed by Vigeo Eiris and Sustainalytics, as well as the Ethibel Sustainability Index, the MSCI ESG Indexes, the FTSE4Good Index Series, Bloomberg Gender Equality Index, and the Access to Nutrition Index.

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In the aftermath of George Floyd's 2020 murder by former police officer Derek Chauvin, many families may find themselves actively engaging inor uncomfortably fumbling arounddiscussions about race. For white parents looking to clearly communicate antiracist ideologies with their preadolescent children, a new study offers some insight.

"There's a difference between saying race "shouldn't" matter and race "doesn't" matter," explains Jamie Abaied, professor of developmental psychology at the University of Vermont and lead author of the study, co-authored by Sylvia Perry, a professor of psychology at Northwestern University. Though "shouldn't" and "doesn't" may seem similar, the study reveals just how different they can be.

Released online by the journal Cultural Diversity and Ethnic Minority Psychology on Monday, the study analyzes data collected in summer 2015 (in the weeks immediately following the Charleston church shooting) from a sample of white American parents responding to questions about how they talk about race with their children, ages 8-12. It aims to understand whether or not white American parents communicate contradictory messages about race to their children; and if so, how and why?

The short answer: Yes, they dobut probably unintentionally. The study found that more than a third of parents communicated mixed messages about race, whereas the remaining two-thirds either communicated consistent ideas about their racial ideology or simply communicated no ideas about race at all. "Before we really develop specific interventions to help parents talk to their kids about race, we need to know what they're currently saying to their kids and how they're currently thinking about these discussions," she says. Until now, there hasn't been much research on that, particularly among parents of children older than age 7.

"When parents offered mixed messages about race, they were saying really positive things like, 'Racism is real and it's wrong,' but they were also saying that race isn't that important, or that 'It's only skin deep,' which is a type of thinking that researchers call colorblindness," she explains. About half the parents endorsed colorblindness at least once in their responses, and more than twenty-one percent of parents in the study only communicated colorblind thinking to their children.

Though not the focus of the study, these findings add to an existing body of psychological research that recalibrates the scales from simply "racist" or "not racist," to "racist" or "counteractive to racist." It's a concept known as antiracism, and it significantly impacts today's understanding of racial colorblindness.

The study describes colorblindness as "a modern form of racism, which can take the form of either color-evasion (claiming to 'not see' race) or power evasion (denying that racial inequality is a reality)." It can downplay race, imply that it isn't important, or divert awareness. And according to Abaied, it's the most problematic takeaway from the study.

"The problem with colorblindness is that race is real. It has real effects on people's lived experiences. If you don't think race is real, it makes it easier to go a step further and believe that racism isn't real," Abaied says. "I think some of the parents were well-meaning and trying to voice egalitarian beliefs, such as, 'I believe people of different races should be treated equally,' which is different from, 'I don't see color, everybody's equal.' In doing that, they are implying that race doesn't matter. The difference is very nuanced, but also very important."

"Colorblindness is not a pathway to racial equality," she adds. "There's a false belief that if we just stop talking about race, everything will be fine." In fact, Abaied found that most white parents, sixty-three percent, reported that they didn't discuss race-related news with their children at the time, which included the killings of Trayvon Martin, Michael Brown and Freddie Gray in addition to the 2015 Charleston church shooting.

Reasons for that ranged from parents wanting to shield their children from difficult topics"No, a child should not be told about death and murder. Those are adult topics," one parent saidto perceptions of relevance"I have not. Why would I bring that up?" stated another.

"The results indicate that white parents have the potential to be agents of change that socialize color conscious beliefs in their children, but many are reinforcing the current system of colorblind indifference to racial inequality," the study explains.

However, the researchers also found that nearly thirty-four percent of participants exclusively communicated in color conscious ideologies, which directly challenge colorblindness. In practice, that looks like white parents "celebrating racial diversity rather than minimizing it, openly acknowledging rather than denying the impact of race on people's lives through discrimination and structural racism, and advocating for equal rights and treatment across different racial groups," the study explains.

Many parents voiced this belief in response to a hypothetical question that asked what they would say to their child if they encountered an incident of race-related prejudice together. Roughly half the parents endorsed the idea that people should receive equal treatment, regardless of race. "I would tell her that what she witnessed was wrong and only hurtful people act like that and we should accept everyone as equals," one parent stated.

However, another parent stated: "I would tell her that everybody is different and the color of your skin is no reason to treat anyone any differently." Both parents endorse equal treatment regardless of race, but differ on how they define the incident itself as "wrong" to their childrenonly the former explicitly mentioned race in their answer.

Abaied sees the study as a first step toward developmental trainings and programs designed to help guide parentsor possibly even teachersthrough these messaging nuances and straight into constructive, intentional conversations about race. "Kids' ideas about race start to solidify in adolescence, so it's not too late to have these conversations during the elementary school years. I think it would be good for parents to talk about this early," she says.

Though family conversations are just one piece of the puzzle to be solved, Abaied points out by engaging multiple generations through one conversation, those conversations have potential to be highly impactful.

Follow-up research to the study is currently underway, with Abaied and her team analyzing a new data set for the study collected in 2020 (after the murder of George Floyd) that will enable them to track and compare progress over time.

Explore further White parents' racial bias awareness associated with greater willingness to discuss race

More information: Abaied, Jamie L. , Perry, Sylvia P. Socialization of racial ideology by White parents. Cultural Diversity and Ethnic Minority Psychology Apr 29 , 2021. Abaied, Jamie L. , Perry, Sylvia P. Socialization of racial ideology by White parents.Apr 29 , 2021. doi.org/10.1037/cdp0000454
RALEIGH, N.C., May 03, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- SECU Foundation recently awarded a $40,000 Mission Development Grant to a local Jacksonville non-profit  One Place, formerly known as Onslow County Partnership for Children. The organization works with community and government groups to improve the lives of children and families by connecting them with high-quality resources for child care, early education, and child abuse prevention and intervention. One Place will use the grant to increase organizational capacity for the development of capital campaign strategies, rebranding, and website redesign to help achieve long-range goals of expanding mental health services for children and building a new facility for their permanent home.



One Place has been a dedicated advocate for children and families in Onslow County and surrounding areas for more than two decades, working to address the problems affecting children in the community. According to the non-profit, over 1,900 children in the county are assessed for abuse and neglect each year. The proposed new facility will provide One Place with the additional space to house all programs and services and the ability to perform on-site medical and forensic interviews for victims of physical and sexual abuse.

This organization has spent years building a network of community support for children and families in distress through the programs and services they provide, noted Jo Anne Sanford, SECU Foundation Board Chair. One Place has clearly identified the need for expanded services and the additional space to continue their important work. We believe that the Foundation grant will help them move forward to strengthen their organization and make their goals a reality.

As we step into our 23rd year of connecting children and families to resources, our new name and rebranding process has been energizing, said Dawn Rochelle, Chief Executive Officer of One Place. Knowing that families search for the One Place that can give answers when they have a need for their child leads us forward in continued development of programs that create hope, because children are no small matter.

About SECU and the SECU Foundation

A not-for-profit financial cooperative owned by its members, SECU has been providing employees of the state of North Carolina and their families with consumer financial services for over 83 years. The Credit Union also offers a diversified line of financial advisory services including retirement and education planning, tax preparation, insurance, trust and estate planning services, and investments through its partners and affiliated entities. SECU serves over 2.5 million members through 272 branch offices, 1,100 ATMs, 24/7 Member Services via phone, a website, www.ncsecu.org and a Mobile App. Members can also follow and subscribe to SECU on Facebook and YouTube. The SECU Foundation, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization funded by the contributions of SECU members, promotes local community development in North Carolina primarily through high impact projects in the areas of housing, education, healthcare and human services. Since 2004, SECU Foundation has made a collective financial commitment of over $200 million for initiatives to benefit North Carolinians statewide. In addition to the website, highlights are also available on the SECU Foundation Instagram page.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c23c18ea-0218-4c96-ae34-32962ba836fe

Contact: Jama Campbell, Executive Director

Office: 919-839-5562 | secufoundation@ncsecu.org
Christian lawmaker defends dropping F-bomb in outrageous classroom encounter

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A Christian Kansas state lawmaker arrested Thursday after he used expletives, scuffled with a high school student and encouraged his class to kick the student in the balls while working as a substitute teacher defended his actions as a planned event to get the students' attention.

Altercation is a strong word. There was no altercation. Im sure there are one or two students that probably perceived it as one, but it was exactly as we planned it, Mark Samsel, a Republican member of the Kansas House of Representatives, told KSNT News Friday about his work in the Wellsville School District.

Samsel, who is also a member of Wellsville Family Church in Kansas, acknowledged that his conduct disclosed in series of videos recorded by his students and published online was intentionally outrageous. In a social media post, Samsel stated that it was all "planned" to send a "message" about "art, mental health, teenage suicide, how we treat our educators and one another."

If I hadnt been outrageous, if I hadnt dropped the F- bomb, if I didnt say Im gonna bring the wrath of God on [the student]! then nobody cares. Everyone keeps their head down and keeps on going, he said.

Samsel tells students in one video reviewed by The Kansas City Star about a sophomore whos tried killing himself three times, adding that it was because he has two parents and theyre both females.

Hes a foster kid. His alternatives in life were having no parents or foster care parents who are gay, Samsel tells students in the video, according to The Star. How do you think Im going to feel if he commits suicide? Awful.

In another video, Samsel tells students to make babies" and asks, "Who likes making babies?"

"That feels good, doesnt it? Procreate ... You havent masturbated? Dont answer that question. ... God already knows," he was quoted as saying.

Samsel is also shown in another video telling a male student, Youre about ready to anger me and get the wrath of God. Do you believe me when I tell you that God has been speaking to me? He then pushes the student, who then runs off to the other side of the classroom.

You should run and scream, he declares.

The teacher is reportedly shown in another video giving his class permission to kick the student in the balls.

Parents explained to The Star that Samsel put hands on the student and allegedly kneed him in the crotch. Other video that appears to have been taken directly after that incident shows Samsel asking the student did it hurt?

Im a concerned parent who doesnt want this swept under the rug, Joshua Zeck told The Star. Hes around kids all the time. Hes a state representative. Hes in a position of power.

Zeck said that he felt Samsel was bullying the student.

Samsel, 36, was booked into the Franklin County Adult Detention Center after 3:30 p.m. Thursday. According to The Kansas City Star, Samsel was charged with misdemeanor battery. But, he was released on a $1,000 bond. Superintendent Ryan Bradbury also stated that Samsel will no longer be allowed to work for the school district in Wellsville.

The Democratic Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas agrees that Samsel should not be working with kids.

What the hell is going on with the #KSLeg this session? Quinton tweeted. He shouldnt just be terminated from substituting. He should be blocked from being around all kids.

Parents told the newspaper that Samsel works with kids in various capacities: as a referee and through church groups.

The Christian Post reached out to Samsels church for comment Monday. A response is pending.

Samsel doesnt believe that he did anything wrong.

[There were] a few kids that were scared.  I didnt even know that they were scared because they were surrounded by their friends in their comfort zone. We were in the art room. Nobody was ever in danger. Did we make it look like we were in anger or outrageous or hurting kids? Yeah, we did. We made it look that way, he said. I didnt do anything wrong. ... I get way more messages of support than are blasting me because they know me.

According to the Associated Press, Samsel will appear in district court on May 19.
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BUCKEYE, Ariz.  A Buckeye police sergeant has been injured after a crash with a man whos suspected of driving while intoxicated, authorities said Sunday.

They said the sergeant was on duty Saturday night in his fully marked patrol vehicle when the crash occurred around 10:20 p.m.

Police said the sergeant plus the driver and a passenger in the suspect vehicle all were transported to the hospital.

The unidentified sergeant was treated and released and is recovering from his injuries at home.

The driver and passenger in the suspect vehicle remain hospitalized with injuries not believed to be life threatening.

According to police, the driver also has warrants for his arrest out of Arizona and California and will be booked into jail on numerous charges once hes discharged from the hospital.

Police did not immediately release the name, age and hometown of the suspect driver.

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A LEGAL battle between the descendants of James Bond author Ian Fleming and Oxfordshire County Council has taken a new turn.

The Supreme Court has ruled in favour of an appeal by the council over the ownership of land in Nettlebed which the two sides disputed.

The council says the plot was gifted to it for use as a school. In 1914 and 1928, Mr Flemings grandfather Robert transferred almost an acre of land known as the Fleming site to be used for this purpose.

The school relocated to a bigger building in 2006 on adjacent land and the old site was sold to a property developer, Bluespace Property Nineteen, the following year for 1,355,000.

Heirs of Mr Fleming have been in dispute with the council as they feel they were entitled to the majority of the money made from the sale of the land.

Brothers Michael and Rupert Rittson-Thomas claimed this right under the Reverter of Sites Act 1987, which governs ownership rights when donated land is no longer used for particular purposes. They claimed that 93 per cent of site represented land gifted by Mr Fleming and that, because it had ceased to be used by the school before the sale, the ownership reverted to Mr Flemings estate.

The council argued that the Act did not apply as it had used the entire net proceeds of the land sale on providing the new school.

A High Court judge ruled in the councils favour but in 2019 three Appeal Court judges overturned this decision in favour of the family.

Now the Supreme Court has granted the councils appeal, saying that the Fleming site had not ceased to be used for the purposes of Nettlebed School, even after the school had moved, as it was always the councils intention to use the proceeds of the sale to pay off the cost of the new school.

Anita Bradley, the councils director for law and governance, said: We are pleased this legal situation has now been fully resolved and that the ultimate result is that there has been no cost to the taxpayer.

Mr Fleming, a Victorian merchant banker who died in 1933, built Joyce Grove, which was the Sue Ryder hospice until last March.
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When I lived and worked in Mexico City, illegal drugs were shunned by the gente decente (decent people) in virtually all classes.

Being known as a drug user carried a very bad stigma. At the time, I had the unfortunate luck of having my name be Pacheco, which in Mexico was used as slang equivalent to stoner in the U.S. Asking somebody, Eres muy Pacheco? meant, Are you really stoned? However, even joking about smoking marijuana or other drugs was generally frowned upon.

Therefore, I have been very interested in seeing Mexico inch closer and closer to legalizing marijuana as a recreational drug.

On March 10, Mexicos lower house of Congress voted in favor of medical, industrial and recreational legalization of marijuana. The bill, which would allow adults over 18 to possess up to 28 grams of marijuana, now goes to Mexicos Senate, which is not expected to begin debate on it until September. Political experts in Mexico are predicting that the Senate will pass this bill and send it to Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador (AMLO), who is expected to sign the bill into law.

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In 2018, the Mexican Supreme Court issued a ruling essentially doing away with the prosecution of people caught with marijuana for personal use. Its stance was that criminal prosecution of users of marijuana was an injustice against their constitutional rights. The current marijuana bill essentially makes the courts ruling a law on the books.

If signed into law, Mexico will be only the third country in the world, after Uruguay and Canada, to fully legalize the use of marijuana.

Several factors need to be considered going forward.

First, the legalization of marijuana will probably have little effect in the trafficking of more lucrative and dangerous drugs such as fentanyl, methamphetamines, heroin or cocaine.

Taxes on the legal sale of marijuana could bring needed money to Mexico; however, the social and law enforcement issues surrounding the legalization of this drug are similar to those in the U.S. One striking difference is what legalization will do to the many marijuana farmers who have depended on growing this crop in order to feed their families. It could have a big effect on families in Mexicos Golden Triangle region (the Mexican states of Chihuahua, Durango and Sinaloa) where a lot of Mexicos marijuana production is based.

To many families in this region, growing marijuana has become as common as growing wheat, corn or alfalfa, only more lucrative. Typically, growers sell their marijuana crop to the cartels who then move it and sell it at a stiff mark-up. In this system, growers do not normally grow rich. However, for many growers the marijuana revenue has allowed them to feed their families and to remain on the land. The effect of recreational marijuana on these growers is a big unknown. Could they simply pivot and produce legally for the legal market? Will the legal market eventually lead to overproduction, which will hurt their prospects in the long run? The cartels might deem the trafficking of marijuana to be less attractive if it is legalized and may choose to focus on the harder drugs.

Another big unknown is what kind of money recreational, marijuana tourism to Mexican border towns  and destination resorts such as Cancun, Mazatlan and Puerto Penasco  will be generated. It is expected that many tourists from Texas, the only border state where recreational marijuana has not been legalized, will take trips across the border to purchase and use the drug. Will these places see a surge of marijuana-seeking tourists that could boost economies? One can imagine drunk and stoned Europeans and Americans in popular Mexican party destinations.

If so, will Mexico have safeguards in place to prevent potential bad effects of this drug on communities? At present, Mexico severely lacks services to help drug addicts or people who are experiencing the negative effects of a drug.

If marijuana is legalized within the near future, will the Mexican government have time to put in place regulations and policies to properly administer a nationwide, legalized-marijuana program? This is a major challenge in U.S. states that have legalized the drug. Just because policymakers have set a date when legalization will occur does not mean that a government will be fully ready to handle it.

Finally, Mexicos ability to capitalize on the legal sale of marijuana will depend on its ability to efficiently collect taxes from growers and vendors. Historically, Mexico has always had problems collecting taxes. It continues to rank among the largest countries with the lowest tax revenue in proportion to its Gross Domestic Product. It is anyones guess whether it will do better in the collection of marijuana taxes.

Mexico, the country in which the word marijuana originated as a reference to cannabis, will have a lot of work to do to roll out legalized marijuana. Even though the bill still has to pass its senate and be signed by AMLO, policymakers and bureaucrats should already be discussing details.

Jerry Pacheco is the executive director of the International Business Accelerator, a nonprofit trade counseling program of the New Mexico Small Business Development Centers Network. He can be reached at 575-589-2200 or at jerry@nmiba.com.
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Copyright  2021 Albuquerque Journal

SANTA FE  Unlike its neighbors, New Mexico beat expectations in the 2020 census count.

Data released this week tallied the state's population at just over 2.1 million residents, exceeding the U.S. Census Bureau's own estimate for how many people lived in the state last year.

The official count, in fact, was 0.5% higher than the census estimate for 2020  a difference of 11,405 people.

The higher-than-expected figure comes after a coalition of philanthropic and private groups joined public agencies throughout New Mexico to push for increased census participation.

Legislators and Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham authorized $8 million in emergency spending last year to support census outreach.

This initial data is a really good indication that the hard work that thousands of people did paid off, said Allan Oliver, co-chair of NM Counts 2020 and executive director of the Thornburg Foundation.

Each of New Mexico's neighbors, by contrast, ended up with an official count below expectations.

Arizona, for example, came in 3.3% under its estimated population  a factor in the state failing to secure a 10th congressional seat, as had been expected. The count in Texas fell 0.5% below the census estimate.

Neither state made an extra investment in census outreach, said Robert Rhatigan, the state demographer and director of Geospatial and Population Studies at the University of New Mexico.

New Mexico's tally is a strong indication that there was no net undercount, Rhatigan said. It's a very good thing.

Brian Sanderoff, president of Research & Polling Inc., which works on redistricting for public agencies, said New Mexico's population growth of 2.8% over the last 10 years  while far below previous decades  actually exceeded the census projection of 2.3%.

New Mexico ran an aggressive educational and outreach campaign to encourage New Mexicans to complete the census form, he said.

State officials say New Mexico had a tremendous amount at stake  because of the state's heavy reliance on federal funding and its hard-to-count population.

Historically, New Mexico is among the most difficult states to count. People of color, children, Native Americans and rural residents tend to be undercounted in the census, demographers say.

The COVID-19 pandemic created new challenges, including the closure of tribal communities.

In a written statement, Lujan Grisham said tribal nations, nonprofit groups and state employees deserve credit for their work on the count.

I am deeply grateful to every single New Mexican that took the time to make sure their community was not left uncounted and to the Legislature for unanimously supporting a measure to provide sufficient funding for New Mexico's complete count, she said. The results of this immense effort will ensure that New Mexico receives every federal dollar to which we are entitled  for health care, for food assistance, for roads in communities all across the state and so much more.

Sen. William Burt, an Alamogordo Republican who served on the state's census committee, said New Mexico could have done better. He questioned whether the state spent effectively to ensure rural residents were counted.

It was not as good as I wanted it to be, Burt said of the population count. I think it was better than the 2010 census, but not by a whole lot.

Oliver, who served as co-chair of the philanthropic effort, said supporters examined polling and other data to help guide their outreach strategy.

We focused really hard on the communities and groups that were the most hard to count, he said.

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Leon Valley businessman Benny Martinez, ousted from his Place 4 City Council seat two years ago but elected to Place 1 on Saturday, wants his suburban community to bury rancor of the past.

Martinez was removed from office through a process known as forfeiture in 2019 by a vote of two council members. Voters then recalled those council members in November 2020.

Ive been vindicated. In fact, Ive had two or three texts and a couple of emails saying, Bennys vindicated, Martinez said Monday.

Martinez will be sworn in May 18 after emerging at the top of a three-way race.

Aside from his unceremonious forfeiture in 2019, a forensic auditors report into a profanity-laced virtual council meeting in April 2020 noted the session had been hacked by multiple Benny Martinezes, he said. That meeting, held in council chambers with council members participating remotely, was shut down when internet trolls interrupted, shouting profanities and piping in music with pornographic lyrics.

On ExpressNews.com: Leon Valley council election holds potential for more unrest

And I was at the meeting. So how could I log in and be posting? Martinez said, laughing. One of the hackers who used his name had a profile with a womans photo.

Making light of the incident, some Leon Valley residents who support Martinez have hailed the election victory of the real Benny Martinez, who carried 493, about 47 percent, of the votes. He was followed by Elaine Valdez, who had 37 percent, and Evan Bohl, with 16 percent, for an open council seat.

Martinez, along with council incumbents who were re-elected, Will D. Bradshaw and Jed Hefner, have questioned the citys contract for red light cameras. The Legislature passed a bill in 2019 that made it more difficult to collect fines for violations caught by the cameras. But Leon Valley took action that year to extend its contract with an Arizona vendor for the surveillance system by 10 years, to 2038. The city is one of only four in Texas, along with Amarillo, Balcones Heights and Humble, that have the cameras.

I definitely want to get those removed, said Martinez, 69.

His other priorities include a possible bond issue or certificates of obligation to fund capital projects such as a new public works building, a dog park and upgrades to Leon Valleys two public swimming pools, which he said will entice younger families to live in Leon Valley.

On ExpressNews.com: Leon Valley police chief replaced

Martinez, an electronic technician and business owner, was removed from office after a forfeiture hearing that spanned eight nights in 2019. A 2-1 council vote supported his ouster on the grounds that he violated the city charter by giving direct orders to city employees, undermining the city managers authority. Martinez filed a lawsuit seeking a judges ruling that a 3-0 vote was needed to declare his Place 4 seat vacant.

He said the lawsuit is now moot because hes been elected to another council seat. The council has hired Gilbert T. Perales, deputy city manager of Arlington, to become the new city manager, replacing former city manager Kelly Kuenstler, who resigned last year.

I dont even want to mention the stuff that happened in the past. Lets bury that, and lets move forward, Martinez said. Lets make Leon Valley our little city like it used to be.

shuddleston@express-news.net
By Charles M. Blow,

Last Sunday, Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina added himself to the long list of Republicans who have denied the existence of systemic racism in this country. Graham said on Fox New Sunday that our systems are not racist. Americas not a racist country.

Graham argued that the country cant be racist because both Barack Obama and Kamala Harris had been elected and somehow, their overcoming racial hurdles proves the absence of racial hurdles. His view seems to be that the exceptions somehow negated the rule.

In the rebuttal to President Joe Bidens address to a joint session of Congress, the other senator from South Carolina, Tim Scott, the lone Black Republican in the Senate, parroted Graham and became an apologist for these denials of racism, saying too that the country wasnt racist. He argued that people are making money and gaining power by pretending we havent made any progress at all, by doubling down on the divisions weve worked so hard to heal.

Scotts argument seems to leave open the possibility that America may have been a racist country but that it has matured out of it, that it has graduated into egalitarianism.

I personally dont make much of Scotts ability to reason. This is the same man who said in March that woke supremacy, whatever that is, is as bad as white supremacy. There is no world in which recent efforts at enlightenment can be equated to enslavement, lynching and mass incarceration. None.

It seems to me that the disingenuousness on the question of racism is largely a question of language. The question turns on another question: What, to you, is America? Is America the people who now inhabit the land, divorced from its systems and its history? Or, is the meaning of America inclusive of those systems and history?

When people say that America is a racist country, they dont necessarily mean that all or even most Americans are consciously racist. However, it is important to remember that nearly half the country just voted for a full-on racist in Donald Trump, and they did so by either denying his racism, becoming apologists for it, or applauding it. What do you call a country thus composed?

Also read: Cop who shot Black man appears to mistake phone for gun

Historically, however, there is no question that the country was founded by racists and white supremacists, and that much of the early wealth of this country was built on the backs of enslaved Africans, and much of the early expansion came at the expense of the massacre of the lands Indigenous people and broken treaties with them.

Eight of the first 10 presidents personally enslaved Africans. In 1856, the chief justice of the Supreme Court wrote on the Dred Scott case, in an infamous ruling that would be issued in 1857, that Black people had for more than a century before been regarded as beings of an inferior order, and altogether unfit to associate with the white race, either in social or political relations; and so far inferior, that they had no rights which the white man was bound to respect.

The country went on to fight a Civil War over whether some states could maintain slavery as they wished. Even some of the people arguing for, and fighting for, an end to slavery had expressed their white supremacist beliefs.

Abraham Lincoln said during his famous debates against Stephen A. Douglas in 1858 that among white people and Black ones there must be the position of superior and inferior, and I, as much as any other man, am in favour of the superior position being assigned to the white man.

Some will concede the historical point and insist on the progress point, arguing that was then and this is now, that racism simply doesnt exist now as it did then. I would agree. American racism has evolved and became less blunt, but it has not become less effective. The knife has simply been sharpened. Now systems do the work that once required the overt actions of masses of individual racists.

So, what does it mean for a system to be racist? Does the appellation depend on the system in question being openly, explicitly racist from top to bottom, or simply that there is some degree of measurable bias embedded in those systems? I assert the latter.

America is not the same country it was, but neither is it the country it purports to be. On some level, this is a tension between American idealism and American realism, between an aspiration and a current condition.

Also read: Derek Chauvin to be sentenced on June 16 for George Floyd murder

And the precise way we phrase the statement makes all the difference: Americas systems  like its criminal justice, education and medical systems  have a pro-white/anti-black bias, and an extraordinary portion of America denies or defends those biases.

As Mark Twain once put it: The difference between the almost right word and the right word is really a large matter. Tis the difference between the lightning bug and the lightning.

Being imprecise or undecided with our language on this subject contributes to the murkiness  and to the myth that the question of whether America is racist is difficult to answer and therefore the subject of genuine debate among honest intellectuals.

Saying that America is racist is not a radical statement. If that requires a longer explanation or definition, so be it. The fact, in the end, is not altered.
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GILBERT, Ariz.  A $3 million bond has been set for a man arrested on suspicion of leading police on a high-speed vehicle chase in metro Phoenix last week in which an officer was killed and another was seriously injured.

Authorities said 25-year-old Jonathan Altland Jr. led the chase Thursday night that ended at a Gilbert car dealership where Chandler Officer Christopher Farrar was fatally injured and Gilbert Officer Rico Aranda suffered a head injury.

Authorities said the pursuit began near Eloy when Altland opened fire on the vehicle of a Pinal County sheriffs deputy who tried to pull over Altland for speeding in a pickup truck that was later discovered to be stolen.

As he headed to Chandler, Altland is accused of driving the wrong way down a roadway at speeds as high as 100 mph, crashing through a gate at Chandler Municipal Airport, driving the wrong way down a freeway and crashing into a fence on an embankment.

Investigators said he fled on foot, entered the nearby car dealership, struck a manager with another vehicle and sped out of the service bay area, leading officers to open fire as Altland accelerated toward them.

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Authorities say Altland continued driving through a parking lot, striking Farrar and slamming into a parked vehicle that hit Aranda. Farrar was pronounced dead at a hospital.

Altland, who has been booked, remains at a hospital for treatment of his injuries, which were not life-threatening, police said.

Its unclear whether an attorney has been appointed to defend Altland.
Is it sex discrimination to require only men to register for the draft?

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100K Bibles distributed to prisoners nationwide during COVID-19 pandemic: 'God-inspired' Prison Fellow, Tyndale Publishers partner together for ministry milestone

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The nations leading prison ministry has given over 100,000 Bibles in the past nine months to incarcerated men and women across the country amid heightened demand for Gods word during the COVID-19 pandemic.

James Ackerman, CEO of Prison Fellowship, the leading Christian ministry serving prisoners and their families, told The Christian Post in an interview that the scale of the Bible distribution is nothing short of God-inspired and miraculous.

He explained how the hopelessness of the pandemic created a high demand for Bibles among many prisoners. Ackerman assured that Prison Fellowship has never seen this level of demand for the Gospel inside prisons in its 45-year history.

During a time when prisons had shut down, and incarcerated men and women had to go without visitations or programming, theres this sense of hopelessness in prisons, he said.

God put on peoples hearts and encouraged chaplains to promote the Word of God. And [the fact] that hope of the Gospel found itself in such high demand is so encouraging to me.

Ackerman, who became president of the ministry founded by the late Chuck Colson in 2016, believes that God created greater demand for His word and provided the resources we needed to meet that demand.

Prison Fellowship partnered with Tyndale House Publishers in 2018 to provide the New Living Translation ofThe Life Recovery Bible to prisoners at no cost.

The Life Recovery Bible was co-branded with Inside Journal, Prison Fellowship's quarterly newspaper published for the incarcerated.

The Bible has special devotional content based on the 12-step recovery model. It helps men and women overcome addictions and strongholds while pointing to God himself as the primary source of recovery with essential tools and features that help free people from the grip of addiction.

Prison Fellowship, founded in 1976, has always distributed Bibles. But the ministry teamed up with Tyndale House to provide large-print Bibles with content to guide people dealing with addiction recovery, which is prevalent among prisoners.

Having a Bible that speaks to addiction recovery and needs was also a priority for us, Ackerman said. The Life Recovery Bible by Tyndale was the perfect fit for what we were exploring.

Around 65% of inmates in the U.S. meet the medical criteria for substance use and addiction, yet only 11% receive the treatment they need, according to the behavioral healthcare system Vertava Health.

[The Life Recovery Bible] brings the opportunity to step into new beginnings with Jesus. And because its a recovery Bible, its also speaking directly to the journey and narrative thats consistent with so many of the lives of these men and women, Ackerman said. [The aim is for] people who have struggled with addiction and that addiction [led] to other unproductive activities in their life to realize that they can be healed of that addiction, that Jesus wants to heal them of that addiction and to allow them to start a life of new beginnings.

A Prison Fellowship survey of prison chaplains showed that most prisoners do not have easy access to their own Bible or have a Bible in a difficult-to-read translation or small font.

We rejoice with Prison Fellowship in reaching this milestone of distributing 100,000 copies of The Life Recovery Bible in just nine months, Tyndale House Ministries CEO Scott Mathews said in a statement.

We value their partnership and are grateful for their efforts in getting Gods Word into the hands of prisoners who need the freeing power of the Scriptures, he continued. Tyndale shares this mission of making the Bible accessible for everyone.

Prison Fellowship has distributed over 162,000 Bibles to men and women in prison since partnering with Tyndale in 2018.

Over 3 million copies of The Life Recovery Bible, Tyndales bestselling recovery Bible, have been printed. It is available in English and Spanish.

Ackerman said many correctional facilities worried prisoners would become agitated and violent with lockdowns and canceled programs due to the pandemic. The Bibles, however, have provided the exact opposite effect, the Prison Fellowship president said.

The feedback weve gotten is that these Bibles are helping to keep people calm and to keep people focused on either strengthening their faith for those who are already believers  but also encouraging others who have never considered the Christian faith before to really sit down and crack open that Bible and read it, Ackerman said. It is creating an environment of calmness in the prison that the Department of Corrections feared might not be there.

God provided us all we needed to meet the demand to supply those 100,000 Bibles, he added. That, to me, it just shows you when the Lord is in something, He not only opens the door to create the demand, but He provides the resources needed to fulfill the expectation.

Prison employees have commended the difference in their facilities since the prisoners received these Bibles.

Mac Mullings, program and services coordinator at Oklahoma County Detention Center, called the Bibles lifesavers.

Every time I go to the floors, I make sure I bring one of these Bibles, and I say, I dont know if youre interested in this, but here it is if you want it. And eight times out of 10, they want it, Mullings said in a statement.

The importance of [providing these Bibles] cannot be overstated, Mullings added. Its like a second chance. When you supply one of these Bibles, youre changing somebodys life.

Prison chaplains can order the Bibles, devotionals and ministry materials for prisoners through Prison Fellowships online store for prison chaplains called The Storehouse.

Of the 100,000 Bibles ordered in the past nine months, 70,000 of them were ordered through The Storehouse.
A FARMER who sends healthcare products for horses all over Europe says his life has been made a misery by Brexit.

Sam Austin runs Oak Farm in Harpsden Bottom and has a separate business called Red Horse Products that has been affected by changes to international exports.

The UK left the European Union in January last year but many of the existing regulations stayed the same until the beginning of this year to help with the transition.

Mr Austin, 41, says that dealing with individual countries with their own rules, particularly during the coronavirus pandemic, has resulted in a backlog of orders.

Customers are also being asked to pay a second VAT charge when parcels arrive in the country and many couriers ask for a Brexit surcharge to deal with the associated paperwork.

This has resulted in customers asking for refunds and Mr Austin worries he will eventually lose a huge portion of his trade.

He said: Because of the Kent covid variant, Europe closed the borders to UK exports in the last two weeks of 2020, which meant we had a backlog of parcels to send out.

Theyve just been putting them in warehouses and not telling us because theyve not been able to handle the workload.

Orders were placed in 2020 and there was no paperwork for them and no export system in place.

The customers were charged VAT because at the time the order was placed we were still in the EU.

By the time the products went out, we were outside the EU, so they had to pay VAT again when it got to Europe, which made customers extremely cross and many of them demanded refunds.

Ive immediately lost all my retail customers in Europe. When products go to Europe, they are charged VAT. Before Brexit, they would have been charged VAT anyway but then the customer gets a bill from the courier company for the second lot of VAT and then they get charged another 20 per cent by the company so that they can manage it.

If you are charged an extra 50 per cent on a 100 per cent order, just to get it into the country, it means I end up with lots of irate emails. I then have to pay return fees to get it back and apologise to the customers.

We are spending hours trying to get tariffs refunded to customers, which is impossible because that money has already been sent to customs.

Mr Austin says he had concerns about the impact of Brexit on trading regulations and tariffs at the time of the 2016 referendum and he believes his fears have now been realised.

He said: It is making my life a misery. I havent seen any positive impact from Brexit and from January 1, my life got significantly worse. I dont believe for a second that anybody who voted to leave will now have a better life.

If the Government had kept us in the single market then that would have been fine. Trading like a third country with Europe is a nightmare. We are trading with 27 different and very bureaucratic countries.

The leave voters might say they are trying to punish us but thats rubbish. Theyre treating us in exactly the same way they would treat the USA, Canada or Brazil.

It is going to be crippling for British business. I know of numerous companies in our sector that just cant export at all and are now UK-only companies. It is going to be terrible for the economy.

His family have owned the farm since 1983 and it was previously run by his parents Tony and Lee.

Mr Austin, who grew up on the farm with his three older brothers, now lives there with his wife Louise and their daughters Islay, six, and Freya, four. Mrs Austin, 37, also works on the farm, which has about 170 breeding ewes.

Red Horse Products started trading in 2007 and has grown steadily since then, gaining recognition in America and Australia, but it is particularly popular in Europe.

Mr Austin makes natural products to help mainly with hoof problems but he also sells veterinary creams and supplements to help joint and muscle conditions.

There have been further problems sending items to Spain as many of the products are made with honey and these are not accepted by the authorities.

He said: Weve basically lost our Spanish trade business. It had taken a really long time for us to get established and our biggest customers are in France.

We gave money to Spanish equine charities and gave stuff to vets and we now have a booming market.

Spain has put down the shutters and wont let us send anything in, despite the fact that no licences are required. The products are very effective but very natural, which is why theyve generated popularity worldwide. If they were synthetic or chemical-based, I would probably have found it easier to get them into the country.

All of my European retail business has disappeared. We also have a large number of stockists, so they are VAT registered and can claim it back. An extra 20 per cent charge on a much bigger order is less significant for them.

Mr Austin says the amount of work and expense to handle shipping problems into Europe has left him less time to concentrate on the farm.

He is now starting to weigh up the possibility of starting a European subsidiary, going through Ireland to retain his strong trade links.

He said: I am spending so much time on Brexit regulations, sitting at a computer, answering emails from customers who havent got their packages or who have been charged too many customs fees.

In terms of mitigation, we are paying hundreds of pounds so that our website is set up to refuse orders from certain countries when we know there is a problem.

It is hours of work and were spending hundreds of pounds to pay the VAT for our retail customers and they are then charged extra.

Were looking at putting a distribution centre in Europe so that we only send big shipments and they only have to be cleared once.

We are even considering a European subsidiary, which would remove 70 per cent of our business from the UK and the Government would not see any of that corporation tax. All our business would go through Ireland.
YEREVAN.  The displaced residents of Artsakh's (Nagorno-Karabakh) Kashatagh region are protesting in front of the main building of the government of Armenia on Monday.

Mariam Hayrapetyan, the secretary of Mijnavan town hall of Kashatagh, told reporters: "What the government decides, they officially announce, in reality nothing happens; we are left in a hopeless situation.

Yesterday Hayk Khanumyan [Minister of Territorial Administration and Infrastructures of Artsakh] had come from Stepanakert, who said that the people of Kashatagh should all come [back] and live in Artsakh; they should make Karabakh prosper.

Gladly. I understand; I accept the pro-state policy. But as for the southern wing of Kashatagh, everyone there is resettled people who have shed blood and sweat, built land, built houses for 30 years, and women came out in the last days, literally with the clothes on them, whereas the men protected Jabrayil and Ishkhanadzor.

And now to persuade those people that, You are going to cultivate land again, in the most border villages of Martakert, we will build your house, and if you do not come, you will receive nothing.'

There is no such thing. We ask the government; it is enough to deceive people at the state level.

Did the people become beggars for help from here and there? We are not that person. They say, You can get your 5 million [drams in assistance]. But did we leave [behind] a property of 5 million [drams]?

If they do not secure us in Armenia, I will apply to the international court," she said in particular.
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FORT WORTH, Texas  The race to become Fort Worths first new mayor in a decade is heading to a runoff.

Deborah Peoples and Mattie Parker were the top vote-getters Saturday night in a wide field of 10 candidates. Peoples is chairwoman of the Tarrant County Democratic Party and would become Fort Worths first Black mayor if elected. Parker is the former chief of staff to outgoing Mayor Betsy Price and carried the endorsement of city business leaders.

The runoff is June 5.

The winner is set to take over a rapidly changing Fort Worth, where Price remains the only Republican mayor of Texas big cities. Fort Worth has grown to nearly 1 million residents and Democrats have made fast inroads in surrounding Tarrant County, which had been of the GOPs biggest strongholds in Texas.

Price was first elected in 2011 and is Fort Worths longest-serving mayor. Her city was shaken in 2019 by the police shooting of Atatiana Jefferson, a Black woman killed when an officer fired a gunshot through a window of her mothers home. The white officer, Aaron Dean, resigned and awaits trial on a murder charge.

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(ANSAmed) - ROME, MAY 3 - Fifty migrants, including a number of Egyptians, have died off Libya after the ship on which they were travelling sank, the Libyan Red Crescent was quoted as saying by Al Arabya in a Tweet.



Previously, the UN agency International Organization for Migration (IOM) said that at least 11 people died after the rubber dinghy on which they were travelling sank. A total of 24 migrants were reportedly on board and were travelling to Europe.



Libyan coast guards rescued 12 passengers.

Libyan coast guards spokesman, admiral Masoud Ibrahim, told ANSA on the phone that he had no information concerning a shipwreck off Libya, in front of the coast of Zawiya, which was reported by al Arabiya. The network said 50 migrants died in the shipwreck. Ibrahim said the information could not be accurate. (ANSAmed)

Y46

(ANSAmed)
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Copyright  2021 Albuquerque Journal

Intel Corp. announced on Monday morning its first multibillion dollar investment in Rio Rancho in more than a decade to convert its local factory into a global manufacturing hub for the companys new Foveros technology.

Company executives unveiled the $3.5 billion investment at an outdoor news conference at the plant with Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham and other state and local officials. The investment will generate 700 new high-paying permanent positions here, plus about 1,000 construction jobs.

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Its the largest such commitment to Intels New Mexico operations since at least 2009, and the largest single investment here to date since the company opened the Rio Rancho plant in 1980, Intel executives told the Journal.

New Mexico will provide Intel $5.75 million in Local Economic Development Act funding for the expansion, including $5 million from the state, $500,000 from Sandoval County as fiscal agent for the project, and $250,000 from the City of Rio Rancho, pending approval by the city council.

Intels $3.5 billion investment in New Mexico will create 700 new jobs in the next three years and establish the Rio Rancho campus as the companys domestic hub for advanced semiconductor manufacturing, Lujan Grisham said in a statement.  The state and Intel have a 40-year partnership, and today, with innovative economic development tools and global demand for this technology, we can celebrate a new generation of workers and job growth at Intels New Mexico manufacturing plant.

The company will upgrade its current 350,000-square-foot manufacturing facility to manage a new chip-packaging architecture called Foveros that Intel first unveiled in 2018.

That new technology is based on stacking computing chips on top of each other, creating a three-dimensional, compact package for super-fast computation that uses much less space. That lowers manufacturing costs and energy consumption while providing high-performance data processing for todays tiny, super-light-weight devices.

The company used the new packaging architecture to create its first fingernail-sized 3D-stacked chip last year called Lakefield, which measures just 1 millimeter high and 12-by-12 millimeters around. Now, Lakefield and other advanced semiconductor devices that could be made with Foveros technology will be manufactured at the Rio Rancho plant once the facility upgrade is finished, said Intel spokesperson Linda Qian.

The new investment will increase manufacturing capacity for this new breakthrough technology, Qian told the Journal. Planning will begin immediately. We expect to start construction later this year and be production-ready in late 2022.

The company wont erect a new building, but rather re-tool and modernize its existing facility.

Were expanding our capacity here to run more wafers through the factory, Qian said.

The investment reflects a sharp turnaround for the Rio Rancho plant that began in 2017, when Intel began converting the local facility from primarily a chip-manufacturing operation into an innovation hub for new, cutting-edge technologies that support the companys evolving global operations.

That conversion started with silicon photonics, whereby Rio Rancho innovators developed new methods to fuse optics technology, or lasers, with traditional silicon-based electronic servers. That next-generation technology uses light to speed data transfer, compared with traditional digital communications that rely on electronics to transfer and process information.

That gave Rio Rancho a new company niche in silicon-photonics components, which are now used in Intel transceivers and receivers for data centers.

Then, in 2018, Intel transferred development of a new memory technology to Rio Rancho called 3D XPoint. Its a new type of engineering architecture that places data memory and storage much closer to microprocessors inside computers or data centers, allowing information to transfer back and forth at much faster speeds.

And more recently, Rio Rancho became the key corporate site for another technology breakthrough  the Embedded Multi-Die Interconnect Bridge, or EMIB. Thats basically a new chip that sits on top of processing, or memory chips, to connect and transfer data between them.

Now, when combined with Foveros, the new technologies give Rio Rancho a unique role in Intel efforts to simplify and optimize semiconductor packaging, memory and connectivity, making the local facility a critical cog in Intels domestic and international operations, Qian said.

Were not making basic chips, or computer processing units, in New Mexico anymore, Qian said. Were making new, differentiating technologies that from the big-picture standpoint set us apart in the development of packaging, connectivity and even software breakthroughs that help drive new advancements in the company.

The focus on innovative technologies has reversed a frank decline in Rio Rancho operations that began in 2013, when Intel employed 3,300 people.

At that time, major investments in new chip-making technology were bypassing New Mexico for other company sites in the U.S. and overseas. In Arizona, for example, Intel opened a new $7 billion manufacturing facility last year. And in March, it announced another $20 billion investment there to build two more factories.

As a result, Intels Rio Rancho workforce dropped to just 1,100 by 2017  one-third the 2013 level.

But in 2018, Intel began hiring again in New Mexico, re-building Rio Rancho back to more than 1,800 employees as of last year. Now, with another 700 projected under the companys latest investment, the local workforce will climb above 2,500 in the next three years.

We are proud to have invested in New Mexico for more than 40 years and we see our Rio Rancho campus continuing to play a critical role in Intels global manufacturing network, said Keyvan Esfarjani, Intels senior vice president and general manager of manufacturing and operations.

Apart from direct LEDA funding, Intels latest investment will also be boosted by a 50% rebate on gross receipt taxes generated during construction, thanks to a new law signed in April by the governor that expands LEDAs economic development impact by allowing state and local governments to share half of the GRT with companies to offset the costs of very large projects. That rebate is expected to save Intel about $14 million on construction and infrastructure expenses at the Rio Rancho plant, something that helped Intel finalize its newly announced plans here, the governor said.

With this exciting development, we are already seeing the benefits of this years legislation expanding LEDA, generating high-quality and high-paying jobs for New Mexicans, Lujan Grisham said.

At $3.5 billion, Intels investment is one of the single largest private sector investments ever in New Mexico, state Economic Development Secretary Alicia J. Keyes told the Journal.

And, apart from the new permanent positions and construction jobs projected by Intel, the investment will indirectly support about 3,500 jobs in New Mexico, Intel Vice President and New Mexico Site Leader Katie Prouty told participants at Mondays event. The company spends about $200 million annually on local suppliers.

The ripple effects on the local economy are immense, said Rio Rancho Mayor Gregg Hull.

Were very excited about Intels renewed investment in our community, Hull told the Journal. It will mean a lot to local businesses, especially now as were emerging from COVID. Local businesses need a shot in the arm, and this is just the thing to do it.

Intel operations by the numbers

$1.2 billion

Annual economic impact in NM

$200 million

Spent annually on local products and services

$16.3 billion

Invested in NM since 1980

$598,000

In property taxes paid to Sandoval County in 2020
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PHOENIX  ON Semiconductor Corp. (ON) on Monday reported first-quarter net income of $89.9 million, after reporting a loss in the same period a year earlier.

On a per-share basis, the Phoenix-based company said it had profit of 20 cents. Earnings, adjusted for one-time gains and costs, came to 35 cents per share.

The results surpassed Wall Street expectations. The average estimate of 12 analysts surveyed by Zacks Investment Research was for earnings of 34 cents per share.

The semiconductor components maker posted revenue of $1.48 billion in the period, which also topped Street forecasts. Nine analysts surveyed by Zacks expected $1.46 billion.

For the current quarter ending in July, ON Semiconductor Corp. expects its per-share earnings to range from 44 cents to 54 cents.

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The company said it expects revenue in the range of $1.57 billion to $1.67 billion for the fiscal second quarter.

ON Semiconductor Corp. shares have increased 19% since the beginning of the year. The stock has more than doubled in the last 12 months.

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This story was generated by Automated Insights (http://automatedinsights.com/ap) using data from Zacks Investment Research. Access a Zacks stock report on ON at https://www.zacks.com/ap/ON
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In November 2011, I moved to Carlsbad for a wildlife biologist position with

CEHMM, a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation that has created a wide range of programs that work toward issues that affect both human health and the environment. These projects serve the community, the region and the state through conservation, education, job creation and research, leading to solutions for environmental and technical challenges. Initially, my husband and I thought Carlsbad would be a one- or two-year transition. Because of the programs CEHMM has to offer, we have grown to love and consider Carlsbad to be home for us and our two daughters.

In 2008 CEHMM, in conjunction with the Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, finalized agreements that provide a mechanism to conserve the lesser prairie chicken and the dunes sagebrush lizard by bringing landowners, oil and gas companies, and biologists together. These agreements, called Candidate Conservation Agreements (CCAs) and Candidate Conservation Agreements with Assurances (CCAAs) are agreements among landowners, industry and CEHMM that support conservation for the two species while allowing work to continue on the landscape. Both agreements protect the lesser prairie chicken and dunes sagebrush lizard habitats on federal and nonfederal lands. These voluntary agreements allow CEHMM to develop, coordinate and implement conservation actions that reduce or eliminate threats to the species while keeping landowners and industry working.

Since we first developed these programs, CEHMM has enrolled 41 oil and gas operators, and 70 local ranchers, totaling around 3.6 million acres of enrolled land throughout the range of the species in southeastern New Mexico. Among other projects, CEHMM has treated approximately 84,000 acres of mesquite and removed more than 10,000 acres of dead standing mesquite skeletons, which has created habitat for the lesser prairie chicken. We have installed approximately 700 escape ramps, which allow mechanisms for animals, such as the lesser prairie chicken, to escape from water troughs. We have replaced 30 water troughs and 130 miles of fence, both of which allow ranchers and livestock managers to utilize the landscape more effectively, improving habitat for the species. Each year we intensively survey the species and monitor our projects to ensure our program is effective. CEHMM team members are on the ground every day working with our partners and our enrollees to reduce or eliminate threats to the lesser prairie chicken and the dunes sagebrush lizard  we are always striving to prevent a listing of the species, helping to keep industry and landowners alike working.

Since the mid-1990s, several petitions have been filed to list the dunes sagebrush lizard and lesser prairie chicken as threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act. In 2012, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service withdrew the rule that proposed a listing of the dunes sagebrush lizard, citing CEHMMs conservation efforts through the CCA/CCAA programs as one of the reasons for the withdrawal. It is as a result of the efforts of our enrollees and partners and the work our CEHMM team does on the landscape through the conservation programs, that this withdrawal occurred.

Im oftentimes asked why I stay in Carlsbad when my family is 2,000 miles across the country. This is why. I believe in CEHMMs programs, the work we are doing on the ground for the species, and in our partnerships and our enrollees. These agreements are working; CEHMM is making a difference not only for the species but also for our community.

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Common App, a non-profit membership organization dedicated to access, equity, and integrity in the college admission process, today announced the expansion of its integration platform. Common Apps integration platform enables third-party software developers to seamlessly integrate their products with the Common Apps free online college application serving more than one million students worldwide when applying to the over 900 member colleges and universities using the Common App.

New partners that will begin piloting the integration service this year include:

MajorClarity, Inc.

XAP Corporation

Kuder, Inc.

These partners join our existing college counseling platforms supported through this integration service, including:

BridgeU

Cialfo

FolderWave

MaiaLearning

Naviance

Parchment

Xello

SchooLinks

OverGrad

Unifrog

Core to our mission is championing those who support students, said Jenny Rickard, President and CEO of Common App. "By providing a flexible and extensible integration service, we can help an even greater number of school counselors to scale their support for students as they navigate the college admission process."

Majority Clarity is an educational technology company based in Richmond, Virginia

whose goal is to ensure that every students education leads to a successful career outcome. Their innovative platform uses proprietary and interactive content along with streamlined access to student and course data to help students build career-aligned plans of study.

"Increased access to the college application process is critical to our mission of equitably serving all students and school districts, says Lauren Conroy, Chief Operating Officer at MajorClarity. We are excited to offer both current and prospective district partners additional tools to streamline managing college applicationsfurthering MajorClarity's ability to provide school counselors a holistic platform supporting all of their needs for both College Readiness and Career Readiness."

Choices360 is a career, college, and life readiness program to help students gain self-knowledge, explore careers and postsecondary options, and create achievable plans. Our goal is to provide tools that inspire students and help families make informed decisions every step of the way.

Behind every college application is a counselor with an overwhelming caseload and a never-ending to-do list, said Eddie Monnier, CEO of XAP Corporation. Thats why were thrilled to add Common App integration to Choices360, expanding our suite of intuitive college application management tools built from counselor feedback. Reducing administrative burden means counselors can focus on ensuring all students graduate with a diploma and a strong post-secondary plan. The college application process is challenging for everyone involved, and we believe Choices360, now integrated with Common App, defines the state-of-the-art in supporting students, parents and counselors in helping all kids achieve post-secondary goals.

More than 165 million people have used Kuders research-based career assessment, education planning, and advisement resources to help visualize which industry or career, field of study or school to pursue next in life. Kuder helps ensure that people of all ages can unlock the power of their own potential and create a bright future.

Like Common App, Kuder works purposefully to support transitions from high school to college and beyond, said Erin Milroy, President of Kuder. We believe were successful only when each user accessing the Kuder Career Planning System  has the resources necessary to succeed, she said. The Common App integration is the perfect complement to our scholarship database, college search tool and financial aid resources that also help our users dream big and plan accordingly.

Integration with Common App will allow additional third-party services to support such use cases as creating and matching of Common App accounts to third-party college counseling systems, facilitating the exchange of data between the Common App and third-party college counseling systems, and providing status updates to college counselors based on their students progress within Common App.

Weve been fortunate to support more than one million students a year thanks, in part, to our valued and long-term partnerships. Our goal is to deliver an open service that improves the applicant experience by streamlining the collection and transmission of application data, added Rickard. "This enables college counselors and advisors to more efficiently leverage Common App while minimizing the frustrations of managing applicant data across systems."

About Common App

Common App is a not-for-profit member organization committed to the pursuit of access, equity, and integrity in the college admission process. Each year, more than one million students, one-third of whom are first-generation, apply to college through the Common Apps online application. In January 2019, the Common App united with Reach Higher, the college access and success campaign started by former First Lady Michelle Obama during her time at the White House.

By joining forces, Common App and Reach Higher accelerated progress toward our joint goal of supporting all students, especially low-income and first-generation students, in achieving their higher education dreams. Our access and equity work for students include a college advising texting campaign with AdmitHub and College Advising Corps, scholarships and community college initiatives, Dear Class of 2020 Fund, and more.

Founded in 1975, Common App serves over 900 member colleges and universities worldwide.

To learn more, visit commonapp.org, and follow @CommonApp and #CommonApp on social media.
South Africa: President speaks out against intimidation of journalists

President Cyril Ramaphosa has spoken out about the intimidation journalists, saying the trend is unacceptable and harmful, especially when threats are directed at women journalists.

The South African media has played a pivotal role in uncovering much of what we know today about the true extent of capture of the State by self-serving, corrupt individuals and entities, President Ramaphosa said.

In his weekly newsletter, President Ramaphosa said if media is to remain true to its responsibility to support democracy, journalists must continue to report without fear or favour on the issues of the day.

Their sustained coverage must include gender-based violence, crime in our communities, and social ills, like substance abuse.

Our media should provide accurate and impartial information, enabling the public to make informed decisions, to access opportunities and improve their lives.

They should continue to produce journalism that goes beyond the headlines and front pages, and contributes to human development. They should report both the good news and the bad news, the progress we make and the challenges we face, President Ramaphosa said.

He said credibility is key to sustaining trust between journalists and the public.

When journalists allow themselves or their platforms to be used to fight political battles or settle scores on behalf of vested interests, their credibility suffers.

When media disseminate stories that are inaccurate or that they know to be false, the public loses faith in them. It is in the best interest of all who love this country and wish for it to succeed that our media is supported, and not hindered in its work.

As society, let us continue to work together to jealously safeguard our countrys media freedom. It was hard won, and without it, we cannot hope to flourish, the President said.

President Ramaphosa said not just journalists but any member of the public is able to freely articulate their views, their opinions and their dissatisfaction without fear of retribution.

At a time when we are working together to rebuild our economy and our society in the midst of the Coronavirus pandemic, a robust media is more critical than ever, President Ramaphosa said.

The organisation, Reporters without Borders, published the 2021 World Press Freedom Index, a barometer of the state of media freedom across the globe.

The report said that journalism is totally blocked or seriously impeded in 73 countries and constrained in 59 others.

In this latest report, South Africa ranked 32nd out of 180 countries. The index describes the state of media freedom in South Africa as guaranteed but fragile.  SAnews.gov.za

This story has been published on: 2021-05-03. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
YEREVAN.  As of Monday morning, 145 new cases of the coronavirus were confirmed in Armenia, and the total number of these cases has reached 217,008 in the country, the National Center for Disease Control and Prevention informed Armenian News-NEWS.am.

Also, ten more deaths from COVID-19 were registered, making the respective total 4,149 cases.

Two more cases of coronavirus patients dying from some other illnesses were recorded in Armenia in the past one day, and the corresponding overall death toll in the country is 1,026 now.

The number of people who have recovered over the past one day is 717, the total respective number so far is 200,472, and the number of people currently being treated is 11,361which is a drop by 584 in one day.

And 2,585 COVID-19 tests were conducted in Armenia over the past one day, while 993,612 such tests have been performed to date.
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ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.  A first-of-its-kind state grant will help Moriarty Municipal Airport keep up with the pace of growth.

The New Mexico Economic Development Department announced last week that it has awarded the first-ever rural infrastructure LEDA grant to the city of Moriarty to expand and enhance its waterline.

The state is investing $283,000 in the project following a change in the Local Area Development Act that allows the state to directly help communities with improvements to publicly owned industrial properties. The overall cost of the project is $383,000, with the city contributing the remaining $100,000.

EDD said the grant was the first of its kind, after Senate Bill 118, which creates a fund to support local economic development projects, was signed into law during the 2020 Regular Session.

ADVERTISEMENTSkip



................................................................

Moriarty Mayor Ted Hart said the state funding allows the city to improve its infrastructure and better compete with larger cities.

They made a process that makes it a lot easier for rural areas to compete with the bigger urban areas, Hart said.

Bob Hudson, airport manager for Moriarty, said infrastructure at the airport, now the states third-busiest by number of takeoffs and landings, has not kept pace with its rate of growth.

Hudson said Moriarty has become a hotspot for gliders  fixed-wing aircraft that dont require engines to fly  and the airport has grown quickly to accommodate increased demand.

Today, Hudson said Moriarty Airport has 77 hangers, about 15 of which were built in the last decade.

When the airport was built, they never expected the airport to grow like it has, he said.

Because of the increased demand, Hudson said the airport has long had poor water pressure, which has hindered future growth, and even made it difficult to fight fires. He said the airport had a fire last March that was difficult to control due to the lack of water pressure.

We really need the capability of a larger line to get more water in here, Hudson said.

Hart said the city had been looking to add water capacity at the airport for years, but lacked the funding to move forward. Hart praised the states grant process, saying it came together in just a couple months.

This was the quickest grant and easiest grant Ive ever had to work on, Hart said.

Hudson added the project also expands water capacity to new parts of the property, which could help the airport add hanger space in the future, which could in turn help the entire city.

This is really a boon for the city of Moriarty, Hudson said. People come from all over the world to fly here.
CABORCA, Mexico, May 03, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Mexus Gold US (OTCQB: MXSG) (Mexus or the Company) announced that on April 29th, the company performed a successful blast in the Quartz 2 vein area at its Santa Elena mine located near Caborca, MX. 150 meter strike length was charged in a 2.5 x 2.5 meter grid along four lines. Approximately 10,000 to 15,000 tons of mineralized material was produced. This material will have lime added to it and be hauled to the crushing area to continue with the heap leaching process. The company believes this material will show between 2 to 4 g/t Au average. Numerous samples are being processed as fire assays to confirm the gold and silver content of the new mineral being processed.



While waiting for the necessary blasting permits, the company was busy improving the gold recovery circuit. The heap leach pad was prepared with trenches and mounts to increase oxygen addition and the percolation of leaching solution. Also, an added compressed air system is proving to increase recovery from the heap leach pad.



In addition, Mexus continues to attract potential partners and major investors to fulfill the great mineral potential of the area. One of these companies is planning to visit the Santa Elena project next week and is very interested in Mexus mining of low angle quartz and shear zone structures. This company is bringing their mining engineering crew to exchange ideas on how to improve the mining circuit moving forward.

The much awaited blast which just occurred is a monumental step for Mexus. The company had been producing gold at lower volume and at lower grades which would have made expansion difficult due to low profit margins. Mining this higher grade material is going to allow Mexus the ability to expand the scale and scope of the company at much faster rate, added CEO Paul Thompson.

Pre blast photo

Post blast photo 1

Post blast photo 2

About Mexus Gold US

Mexus Gold US is an American based mining company with holdings in Mexico. The fully owned Santa Elena mine is located 54km NW of Caborca, Mexico. Mexus also owns rights to the Ures property located 80km N of Hermosillo, Mexico. This property contains 6900 acres and has both gold and copper on the property. Founded in 2009, Mexus Gold US is committed to protecting the environment, mine safety and employing members of the communities in which it operates.

For more information on Mexus Gold US, visit www.mexusgoldus.com.

Mexus Gold US (775) 721-9960 Paul Thompson Sr

Cautionary Statement

Forward looking Statement: Statements in this press release may constitute forward-looking statements and are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, including the failure to complete successfully the development of new or enhanced products, the Company's future capital needs, the lack of market demand for any new or enhanced products the Company may develop, any actions by the Company's partners that may be adverse to the Company, the success of competitive products, other economic factors affecting the Company and its markets, seasonal changes, and other risks detailed from time to time in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The actual results may differ materially from those contained in this press release. The Company disclaims any obligation to update any statements in this press release.
(ANSAmed) - BEIRUT, MAY 3 - Social media accounts of the so-called 'Islamic State' have posted new photos on social media, after months of silence, portraying militants as they pray at dawn, prepare typical sweets of the Islamic month of Ramadan, eat together and recite the Quran.



The Aamaq agency, identified as the propaganda arm of ISIS, has published on its account a series of images portraying a group of militants, whose faces can't be recognized and who are wearing the traditional tunic and headwear, as they undertake "daily activities" of the month of Ramadan.



The group only includes men and, according to the photos' captions, the photos come from "Syria", although the specific location is not indicated.



Over the past few days dozens of ISIS militants were reported to have been killed by Russian and government air raids in central Syria. But the reports could not be independently verified.



The organization of the Islamic State continues to be operational, in a clandestine manner and with guerrilla activities, in vast areas of central and eastern Syria and in western and central Iraq. Officially, ISIS was declared defeated in Iraq in December 2017 and in Syria in the spring of 2019.



(ANSAmed).


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English French

MONTREAL, May 03, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Stella-Jones Inc. (TSX: SJ) (Stella-Jones or the Company) today announced its director election results following its Annual Meeting of Shareholders (Meeting), held this morning.



All of the nominees proposed as directors in the Companys Management Information Circular dated March 9, 2021 were elected to the Board of Directors of Stella-Jones by a majority of the votes cast by shareholders at the Meeting or represented by proxy at the Meeting. Detailed voting results for the election of directors were as follows:

Nominee



Votes for Votes Withheld # % # % Robert Coallier 49,849,039 99.99 4,448 0.01 Anne E. Giardini 49,843,030 99.98 10,457 0.02 Rhodri J. Harries 49,848,566 99.99 5,021 0.01 Karen Laflamme 49,804,403 99.90 49,084 0.10 Katherine A. Lehman 49,759,803 99.81 93,784 0.19 James A. Manzi, Jr. 49,782,941 99.86 70,371 0.14 Douglas Muzyka 49,233,500 98.76 618,487 1.24 Simon Pelletier 46,517,176 93.30 3,336,311 6.70 Eric Vachon 49,842,773 99.98 10,814 0.02 Mary Webster 48,625,721 97.54 1,227,766 2.46

Additionally, the advisory vote on executive compensation (Say on Pay) received 98.84% approval.

Results on all matters voted at the Meeting are available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

ABOUT STELLA-JONES

Stella-Jones Inc. (TSX: SJ) is a leading producer and marketer of pressure treated wood products. The Company supplies North Americas electrical utilities and telecommunication companies with utility poles and the continents railroad operators with railway ties and timbers. Stella-Jones also manufactures and distributes residential lumber and accessories to retailers for outdoor applications, as well as industrial products for construction and marine applications. The Companys common shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange.
New Jersey will drop many of its major remaining coronavirus restrictions later this month, including the elimination of fixed indoor capacity limits for business, but theres still some lingering COVID-19 rules  most notably social distancing and masking.

Restaurants, gyms, hair and nail salons, barber shops, movie theaters, stores, museums, and amusement parks will be allowed to operate without set capacity limits beginning May 19, and limits on outdoor gatherings will also be completed lifted. But the requirement to keep 6 feet of social distancing indoors could mean some businesses, particularly smaller restaurants, may still not be able to resume full capacity.

New Jersey will take interim reopening step on Friday when:

Outdoor gatherings limit will increase to 500 people, up from 200.

Large venue outdoor capacity will increase to 50% for venues with 1,000 fixed seats or more, as long as six feet of distance is maintained, up from 30% capacity for venues with a 2,500 fixed seating capacity. That will allow for larger graduation ceremonies for colleges and high schools.

Indoor catered events, including proms and weddings, will be able to have 50% capacity of the room up to a maximum of 250 people, up from 35% capacity and up to 150 persons. Dance floors may also be open at those events, but remain closed at bars and nightclubs. Other events included in the 50% capacity group are political functions, funerals, memorial services and performances.

Carnivals and fairs to operate at the amusement business capacity of 50%. They previously had more restrictive limits.

The prohibition on indoor bar seating will be lifted, though social distancing must be maintained.

The restriction on self-service food, like buffets, at restaurants, will be lifted, but individuals will still be required to remain seated while eating and drinking.

Most of those changes had been originally scheduled for next week, but Gov. Phil Murphy bumped up the timetable to give proms an additional weekend to operate under the new rules. He added the bar seating and buffet changes on Monday.

The larger reopening step is scheduled for May 19, when New Jersey will join with New York and Connecticut in removing most fixed indoor capacity limits in favor of requiring social distancing and masks. Most of those business including restaurants and bars will continue to operate at 50% capacity limits until then. There will be no capacity limits on outdoor gatherings after May 19.

After May 19, New Jersey remaining restrictions will include:

Six-foot social distancing and masks required inside businesses, including at bars and restaurants.

For restaurants, tables may be closer than 6 feet if physical barriers are used. People must remain seated at bars and restaurants and wear masks whenever theyre not eating or drinking.

Masks are still required inside and outdoors when people cant socially distance including at outdoor events like parades, fireworks or fairs.

Capacity limits on inside catered events are capped at 250 people.

Large outdoor stadiums are capped at 50% capacity. Any venue that has 1,000 or more seats is considered large.

The capacity limit for large indoor venues will increase to 30%, up from 20% and the definition for large will change to 1,000 to match outdoor venues.

Private indoor gatherings are capped at 50 people.

Youth day and sleepaway camps have about a dozen guidelines theyre required to follow this summer.

CORONAVIRUS RESOURCES: Live map tracker | Newsletter | Homepage

There are a number of things we still have in place, Murphy said Monday during his latest COVID-19 briefing in Trenton.

But the governor added he hopes current trends continue he plans to announce further restrictions lifted.

In addition, Murphy said the state would continue to follow the federal Centers for Disease Control on social distancing but could decrease the 6-foot rule if federal authorities change that guidance.

New Jerseys transmission rate, positivity rate for tests, new cases, and hospitalizations have all turned significantly lower in recent weeks. The states seven-day average for new confirmed positive COVID-19 tests dropped to 1,561, down 32% from a week ago and 61% from a month ago. Monday marked the fifth time in six days the state has reported fewer than 2,000 new cases.

The state on Monday reported another 880 confirmed cases and an additional 16 deaths. Statewide COVID-19 hospitalizations continued to fall below 1,400, while the statewide rate of transmission dropped again to 0.37. New Jersey had not reported fewer than 1,000 new confirmed cases since Oct. 17.

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Matt Arco may be reached at marco@njadvancemedia.com.
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State Rep. Mike Mrowicki, D, serves the Windham 4 District towns of Putney, Dummerston and Westminster. The opinions expressed by columnists do not necessarily reflect the views of the Brattleboro Reformer.
Migrants: San Marino OKs bill to host unaccompanied minors NGO hails initiative as 'important step'

(ANSAmed) - ROME, MAY 3 - The Republic of San Marino has unanimously approved a bill that will enable single people and families to host unaccompanied migrant minors residing in facilities for migrants. The legislation, which came into effect on April 30, will also allow residents to care for minors on the Greek islands.



The step was celebrated by the NGO Still I Rise on Monday, which explained in a statement that it followed the evolution and approval of the bill discussed by legislators on April 27.



With law n. 79 of April 30, 2021, the Republic of San Marino regulates the juridical status of unaccompanied foreign minors, who will be assured the possibility of becoming part and growing within a family that is able to guarantee the moral, educational and material support they need. A single person or a couple who are citizens or reside in San Marino, who are over 25 years of age and who can educate and support a minor, will be allowed to become foster parents, under the legislation. Another requirement is that foster parents - whenever possible - will have to maintain contacts between children and their family of origin.



Citizens and residents will also be allowed to welcome more than a minor, if they want to, favoring relationships between siblings.



In addition, a mechanism of "internal solidarity" was included among measures for those who cannot welcome a child within their household but who want to be part of the project, enabling them to financially support one or more minors. The minors will instead be housed families who can take care of them but who would be unable to support them financially. In order to encourage fostering, the Republic of San Marino plans to set up a Fund for the economic support of foster families in future.



"This project adds a fundamental tassel, which was so far missing, to our action", said Nicolo Govoni and Riccardo Geminiani, president and vice president of Still I Rise. "Thanks to the new law, unaccompanied minors who are present in our schools in contexts of emergency (like Mazi and Samos) will be able to continue their journey of hope also outside, in a safe environment, within families who take care of them and ensure the necessary services for their growth. We are very happy and deeply grateful to the Republic of San Marino for taking such an important step". (ANSAmed)
BiZZdesign has published its first annual research report on the state of enterprise architecture maturity worldwide. The State of Enterprise Architecture 2021 unveils insights gathered from over 250 EA practitioners across industries and company sizes.

The report sought to understand the relationship between enterprise architecture maturity and the ability of organizations to survive and thrive in the post-COVID era.

Six key findings:

1. Over half of all businesses are under pressure to adapt: Thirteen percent of respondents told us their organization is fighting for survival after a difficult 2020, with a further 43 percent saying theyd managed to survive, but that further adaptation will be crucial in 2021.

2. Organizations with mature EA programs have the agility needed to adapt: The survey reveals a high correlation between EA maturity and organizational agility. EA leaders are not only capable of aligning capabilities with business strategy, but also of doing the right things at the right time to achieve positive outcomes for the business.

3. Less-mature EA programs arent yet driving positive business outcomes: Organizations with lower levels of EA maturity arent yet reaping the full benefits of EA. While EA contributes to strategy and planning, its not driving more concrete outcomes  like faster time to market or an improved customer experience.

4. EA must break out of its IT silo to have an impact: EA teams are good at helping IT to invest in the right tools to support business strategy. However, the responses suggest EA needs to increase its visibility and accessibility if its to have a strong impact on business performance.

5. Mid-sized businesses are particularly at risk from nimbler competitors: While SMEs and large enterprises display higher levels of EA maturity, a squeezed middle of organizations with 501-10,000 employees are lagging behind.

6. Over one-third of practitioners lack an EA tool thats fit for purpose: Two-thirds of respondents said they use an EA management tool that supports governed, collaborative design, adherence to industry standards, and powerful analysis. However, 35 percent dont have access to a tool with these essential capabilities

Indre Wakil, Global Campaign Manager for BiZZdesign, said: Darwin taught us that adaptation is the key to survival, and there has never been more pressure to adapt than now. Our findings clearly show that enterprise architecture has a critical role to play in enabling organizations to transform digitally and thrive in the post-COVID era.

The EA maturity advantage

At the heart of the report is BiZZdesigns model for assessing enterprise architecture maturity and evaluating its impact on business performance. The results show that EA leaders:

Have a 3.4x higher average organizational agility score than EA laggards

Are 4 times more likely to say they out-change their industry peers

Say they cope 2.6 times better with unplanned business changes

Are 2.9 times more likely to execute planned changes well

Devote 2.2x more of their IT resources to innovation and building new capabilities

Report a 3.6x higher customer experience (CX) maturity score

Download the full report.

About BiZZdesign

BiZZdesign offers an advanced enterprise software platform for planning, tracking, and executing business change, with a focus on improving the customer experience.

The BiZZdesign Suite is deployed in blue chip companies and government organizations worldwide, where it enables meaningful business change for customers including ING Bank, Shell, Swisscard and Tata Steel.

Founded in 2000 as the commercial spin-off of a research and innovation institute, BiZZdesign is consistently recognized by industry analysts as a provider of best-in-class enterprise architecture solutions. Find out more at http://www.bizzdesign.com.
South Africa: Captive lion industry a risk to wild lion conservation

A High-Level Panel appointed to review policies has recommended that South Africa halt the captive breeding of lions, keeping lions in captivity, and using captive lions or their derivatives commercially.

The High-Level Panel Report on the management, breeding, hunting, trade and handling of elephant, lion, leopard and rhinoceros was released on Sunday by Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Barbara Creecy, in Pretoria.

The Panel identified that the captive lion industry poses risks to the sustainability of wild lion conservation resulting from the negative impact on ecotourism, which funds lion conservation and conservation more broadly, the negative impact on the authentic wild hunting industry, and the risk that trade in lion parts poses to stimulating poaching and the illegal trade, the Minister said.

Creecy has requested the department to action the recommendation accordingly and ensure the necessary consultation for implementation is conducted.

It is important to stress that the recommendations are not against the hunting industry. Preventing the hunting of captive lions is in the interests of the authentic wild hunting industry, and will boost the hunting economy and our international reputation, and the jobs that this creates, the Minister said.

Creecy appointed the High-Level Panel in October 2019 after hosting a Colloquium on Captive Lion Breeding in August 2018, which recommended putting an end to lion breeding in South Africa.

It was also in response to the number of emotive and complex conservation and sustainable use issues raised by the public, particularly those involving keystone species. These included the lion bone trade, hunting of captive-bred lions, the elephant culling debate, the ivory stockpile, and trade in rhinoceros horn.

We will be taking forward the recommendations to develop a Policy on Biodiversity Conservation and Sustainable use and adopt a One Welfare approach for wildlife.

There are key recommendations to reposition and organise protected areas, simplify and make more effective legislative and administrative processes, as well as to improve cooperative governance. The department will initiate processes to resolve these, the Minister said.

She said transformation of the wildlife sector will be prioritised, in terms of improved inclusion of marginalised groups, especially communities living with or adjacent to these species, and in the role and influence of traditional leaders and healers in the wildlife sector.

In terms of captive rhino, the panel made clear recommendations as to how partnerships with private owners of rhino can lead to strong conservation outcomes for the species, while enhancing potential benefit streams.

We have accepted that the country adopt the recommended positions on ivory and rhino horn trade, such that we will not be making proposals to CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) for further trade in these derivatives until certain conditions have been met.

On the rhino these are based on the Commission of Enquirys report Option 3 as approved by Cabinet and the Rhino Action Plan and the development of a global consensus for legal international trade in rhino in the interest of rhino conservation, the Minister said.

As South Africa protects the largest component of the global rhino population, the country intends to play a global leadership role in this.

For elephants, although we hold a relatively small portion of the population, South Africa wants to play a key role to bring African consensus on ivory trade in the interest of ivory trade on elephant.

We will be initiating a participatory process, with recognition of the important role and contribution by private owners, including some major ecotourism-based rhino populations, to rhino conservation, to find win-win solutions to safeguard rhino conservation and broaden and deepen the bio-economy associated with rhino, the Minister said.

In adopting the reports recommendations, the Minister said the following are the key outcomes for the country:

Improved policy and legislative coherence, which will provide certainty and a stable base for growth and development;

Better balancing economic, social, cultural and natural heritage needs, including re-imagining the role of protected areas, both state and others, in contributing to ecologically sustainable rural development;

Placing communities living with wildlife at the centre, focussing on enhancing human-wildlife co-existence, and transformative approaches to access and benefit sharing for communities living on the edges of protected areas;

A renewed focus on transforming the ownership and management of the commercial wildlife economy particularly in the eco-toursim and authentic hunting sectors;

The ending of certain inhumane and irresponsible practices that greatly harm the reputation of South Africa and the position of South Africa as a leader in conservation; and finally,

Contributing to ensuring Africas coherence and unity in relation to conservation; sustainable use and management of these species.

- SAnews.gov.za

This story has been published on: 2021-05-03. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
YEREVAN.  The content of the negotiation process on the settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh) conflict had changed in the fall of 2015 and the winter of 2016; this was followed by the April 2016 escalation. Acting Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated this during Mondays National Assembly special session to discuss the matter of electing a Prime Minister of Armenia, answering the question of independent MP Tigran Urikhanyan.

According to Pashinyan, the concept has always been put forward that he allegedly knew perfectly well that if one of the negotiators changes, the logic of the negotiation process will change automatically. "Years will pass, the content of the documents will be revealed, and we will know that the content of the negotiation process had changed in the fall of 2015 and the winter of 2016. Then came the spring of 2016 and started on April 2. The content of the negotiation process changed at that very moment, which is confirmed by the available documents. There are records of negotiations with which I worked in 2018, during my term as prime minister," Pashinyan emphasized.

The acting premier assured that at the time, third President Serzh Sargsyan had written a letter to the mediators expressing concern over a referendum on the status of Artsakh. "His concern was that it was not clearly stated that the Azerbaijanis who are considered potential residents of Nagorno-Karabakh should also take part in this referendum; but to be a resident of Nagorno-Karabakh, one should live in Karabakh," Pashinyan said.

Then he asked, according to Sargsyan, where the Azerbaijanis who had moved from Azerbaijan to Artsakh should live.


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Soho Burning Love A delivered a decisive 1:50.1 score in Sunday afternoon's (May 2) $22,500 winners-over distaff pacing feature at Harrah's Philadelphiajust the second appearance at the riverside raceway from the seven-year-old mare.

Soho Burning Love A used two moves to achieve control of the terms out of her assigned outside postone to float into third on the first turn, and a second to seize control from early pacesetter Crazy Cute just beyond a :27.1 first quarter. And after the daughter of Auckland Reactor N reached the lead, there was simply no catching her.

"She was awesome, as good as I've seen her," said Tim Tetrick, who drove Soho Burning Love A to her fourth victory of the year. "She was just out for a Sunday afternoon stroll; she was on cruise control."

Soho Burning Love A rated a :55.4 half before accelerating on the backstretch, following a wind-aided :27 third sectional with a :27.2 final split to seal a two-and-three-quarter-length victory. Demeter N, driven by Andy McCarthy, sustained a gradual first-over advance to take second and Eclipse Me N emerged belatedly for third over the tiring Crazy Cute.

Jim King Jr. trains 21-time winner Soho Burning Love A for JoAnn Looney-King, Brian Carsey and Jeff Fought Racing. The featured win was one of four for Tetrick on the 14-race program. She paid $3.00 to win.

In the co-featured event for male pacers, also carrying a purse of $22,500, Shnitzledosomethin parried a persistent challenge from Yonkers invader Tyga Hanover to win by one-and-three-quarter lengths in 1:51.3, his second-consecutive victory at Harrah's Philadelphia.

The six-year-old Fred And Ginger stallion, who enjoyed success on the Indiana Sires stakes circuit early in his career, drilled a :26 first quarter in line to David Miller before backing the half down to :55.4, but was forced to accelerate again up the far side while Tyga Hanover encroached steadily. Turning for home, Shnitzledosomethin rose to the challenge, driven to notch his 25th win. Tyga Hanover narrowly held second over JJ Flynn, who lifted mildly after losing cover.

Dylan Davis trains 25-time winner Shnitzledosomethin for Howard Taylor, Ed Gold, Abe Basen and Richard Lombardo. He paid $4.80 to win.

Daviswhose two training wins on the program were matched only by leading trainer Kelvin Harrisonalso won with Shoobee Doo A ($21.40), who soared off cover to capture his North American Debut in 1:51.1 in line to Corey Callahan.

Racing returns to Harrah's Philadelphia on Wednesday (May 5); post time is 12:25 p.m. (EDT).

(Harrah's Philadelphia)
What is the meaning of security of the person and right to liberty in a state of emergency (SoE)?

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Leadership



Regent Laporte, DVM, MSc, PhD - Program Director

Claudio D. Schteingart, PhD

Maria Paz Rodriguez, DDS, MS, MAS - Communication Director

General Administration

Robert Houghtaling, BA - Program Manager

Tiana Mack-Miller, BS - Communication Assistant

Faculty

CLRE-236 Translational Research Fundamentals

Regent Laporte, DVM, MSc, PhD - Course Director

Maria Paz Rodriguez, DDS, MS, MAS - Course Co-Director

Roberta V. Alexander, PharmD, PhD

Andrew Baker, BEng (Hons)

Elizabeth Brunk, PhD

Timothy R. Geiger, PhD

Mark S. Hixon, PhD

Kanthi A. Kollengode, MD, MAS

Amit Kumar, PhD

Patrick McConville, PhD

Pierre Riviere, PhD

Marina Seme Nelson, PhD

CLRE-237 Translational Regenerative Medicine

Sheldon Morris, MD, MPH - Course Director

Catriona Jamieson, MD, PhD - Course Co-Director

Eric Ahrens, PhD

Michael Choi, MD

Joseph D. Ciacci, MD

Scott M. Lippman, MD

Martin Marsala, MD

Jeremy Pettus, MD

Jeremy Rich, MD, MHS, MBA

Vickie Sheckler

Robert Signer, PhD

Tiffany Tanaka, MD

Holly Young, MSc

CLRE-238 Applied Translational Research

Regent Laporte, DVM, MSc, PhD - Course Director

Claudio D. Schteingart, PhD - Course Co-Director

Maria Paz Rodriguez, DDS, MS, MAS  Course Manager

Thomas Bicsak, PhD

Michael K. Dunn, PhD, MBA

Mark Fineman, MAS, MS, PhD

Wolfgang Glaesner, PhD

David G. Parkes, PhD

CLRE-239 Applied Translational Research II

Regent Laporte, DVM, MSc, PhD - Course Director

Claudio D. Schteingart, PhD - Course Co-Director

Maria Paz Rodriguez, DDS, MS, MAS  Course Manager

Steven L. Bender, PhD

Cristian Rodriguez, MD

Jury Panel for Final Presentations

Mark Fineman, MAS, MS, PhD



Mark S. Hixon, PhD



Kanthi A. Kollengode, MD, MAS

CLRE-40004 Capstone Project

Maria Paz Rodriguez, DDS, MS, MAS - Course Director

John M. York, PharmD, MBA - Course Co-Director

Eric Ahrens, PhD



Roberta V. Alexander, PharmD, PhD

Dr. Roberta Alexander has over 20 years of pharmaceutical and diagnostics industry experience across multiple therapeutic areas including rheumatology, gastroenterology, pain, endocrinology, inflammation, and cardiovascular diseases. She has a unique background encompassing clinical and preclinical research. Currently, Dr. Alexander serves as Senior Director of Clinical Research & Medical Affairs at Exagen, a diagnostics company, where she oversees clinical research and business development.

Dr. Alexander obtained her PharmD degree and her PhD in Molecular Pharmacology from the Universita degli Studi di Perugia, Italy. She then completed a Postdoctoral Fellowship in Molecular Pharmacology at the School of Medicine of the University of Pennsylvania.

At the Altman Clinical and Translational Research Institute of the School of Medicine of the University of California, San Diego, Dr. Alexander teaches about diagnostics in the Translational Research Fundamentals (CLRE-236) course in the Translational Science Certificate Program.

Andrew Baker, BEng (Hons)

Mr. Andrew Baker is a medical technology industry expert with over 30 years of experience. A graduate of the University of Portsmouth, he has managed industrial and medical solutions at Maxim Integrated for over 11 years. Currently, as Managing Director of the Industrial & Healthcare Business Unit, Mr. Baker is leading a team of engineers focused on developing solutions for Wearable Health, focusing on power management and sensing technologies. Mr. Baker received his BEng (Hons) in Electrical Engineering from the University of Portsmouth. At the Altman Clinical and Translational Research Institute of the School of Medicine of the University of California, San Diego, Mr. Baker teaches about medical technology in the Translational Research Fundamentals (CLRE-236) course in the Translational Science Certificate Program.



Steve L. Bender, PhD

Dr. Steve Bender has over 25 years of drug discovery experience primarily focused on Oncology and, more recently, in Immuno-Oncology, and spanning both small molecule and biotherapeutic approaches. At the Genomics Institute of the Novartis Research Foundation (GNF), he led a group of approximately 60 cancer biologists and immunologists as the Executive Director of Cancer Therapeutics. During his tenure, the Cancer Therapeutics teams discovered six novel drug candidates that have progressed into clinical trials. He is now Entrepreneur in Residence at Boxer Capital, as well as Founder and Principal Consultant at NexTx Insights.

Dr. Bender received his BS in Chemistry from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and his PhD in Organix Chemistry from Harvard University.

At the Altman Clinical and Translational Research Institute of the School of Medicine of the University of California, San Diego, Dr. Bender mentors a student team in a drug case study in the Applied Translational Research II (CLRE-239) course in the Translational Science Certificate Program.



Thomas Bicsack, PhD

Dr. Thomas Bicsak is a regulatory affairs professional with nearly 30 years of experience in all phases of drug development. He is currently Vice President of Regulatory Affairs and Quality at Biosplice Therapeutics (previously known as Samumed), overseeing regulatory strategy for all development programs. Earlier, Dr. Bicsak was Senior Vice President of Regulatory Affairs and Quality Assurance at Elcelyx Therapeutics, leading the regulatory strategy for the development of a novel therapy for type 2 diabetes in patients with renal impairment.

Dr. Bicsak received his BA (Hons) in Biochemistry from Rutgers University and his PhD in Chemistry from the University of California, San Diego, where he then completed a Postdoctoral Fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology at the School of Medicine.

At the Altman Clinical and Translational Research Institute of the School of Medicine of the University of California, San Diego, Dr. Bicsak teaches about regulatory affairs in the Applied Translational Research (CLRE-238) course in the Translational Science Certificate Program.



Elizabeth C. Brunk, PhD

Dr. Elizabeth Brunk is an experienced academic computational scientist who is a consultant for the pharmaceutical industry. She is currently an Assistant Professor at the Department of Pharmacology and the Department of Chemistry of the University of North Carolina, where she is also a faculty of the Integrative Program for Biological & Genome Sciences, the Lineberger Cancer Center, and the Computational Medicine Program. Dr. Brunks research focuses on the identification of functionally relevant variants in cancer, the understanding of how molecular pathways and variants drive drug response, the development of methods to integrate cancer omics data across biological scales, and the development of tools for functional/precision medicine.

Dr, Brunk received her BS in Biochemistry from the University of Michigan, her MSc in Chemistry and Molecular Modeling of Biomolecular Systems jointly from the University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands, and the Ecole normale superieure de Lyon, France, and her PhD in Computational Chemistry from the Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne, Switzerland. She then completed a Postdoctoral Research Fellowship offered jointly by the University of California, Berkeley, and the Joint BioEnergy Institute of the US Department of Energy. More recently, she completed a Postdoctoral Fellowship in the Cancer Therapeutics Training Program at the Moores Cancer Center of the University of California, San Diego.

At the Altman Clinical and Translational Research Institute of the School of Medicine of the University of California, San Diego, Dr. Brunk teaches about functional/precision medicine in the Translational Research Fundamentals (CLRE-236) course in the Translational Science Certificate Program.



Michael Choi, MD



Joseph D. Ciacci, MD



Michael K. Dunn, PhD, MBA

Dr. Michael Dunn is an intellectual property and scientific intelligence professional with over 20 years of pharmaceutical industry experience. He is currently Senior Director of Scientific Information & Intelligence at the Ferring Research Institute and a member of Ferring Pharmaceuticals Global Patent Department. His responsibilities include patent strategy and prosecution for drug discovery projects, scientific competitive intelligence, and research reporting. Dr. Dunn has notably published on the impact of patent timing on pharmaceutical product exclusivity, on peptide therapeutics, and on data integrity in research environments.

Dr. Dunn received his PhD in Biological Chemistry & Molecular Pharmacology from Harvard Medical School and his MBA from the Johnson Graduate School of Management of Cornell University. He is also a certified Patent Agent.

At the Altman Clinical and Translational Research Institute of the School of Medicine of the University of California, San Diego, Dr. Dunn teaches about innovation and intellectual property in the Applied Translational Research (CLRE-238) course in the Translational Science Certificate Program.



Mark Fineman, MAS, MS, PhD

Dr. Mark Fineman is a seasoned pharmaceutical executive with over 30 years of experience leading R&D for both public and private companies. In these roles, he has led the strategy and execution of multiple programs ranging from early discovery through global commercialization of several first-in-class products. He is currently Senior Vice President of Clinical Affairs at Biosplice Therapeutics overseeing all musculoskeletal and neurodegenerative clinical programs. Dr. Fineman is also the Program Development Leader for lorecivivint, a first-in-class drug candidate in Phase 3 clinical trials for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis.

Dr. Fineman received his Master of Advanced Studies in Clinical Research and his MS in Molecular Pathology from the University of California, San Diego, and his PhD in Medicine from the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

At the Altman Clinical and Translational Research Institute of the School of Medicine of the University of California, San Diego, Dr. Fineman teaches a drug case study in the Applied Translational Research (CLRE-238) course in the Translational Science Certificate Program.



Timothy Geiger, PhD

Dr. Timothy Geiger has over 20 years of experience in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries. He is currently Senior Manager of Field Application Scientists for the Southwest Business Unit at ProteinSimple, a subsidiary of Bio-Techne Corp., a biotechnology and clinical diagnostic holding company. Before getting involved in the biotechnology industry, Dr. Geiger was a Scientist at Allergan, a pharmaceutical company, where he was overseeing a team of analysts developing molecular biology and immune-based analytical methods for drug development.

Dr. Geiger received his PhD in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology from the University of Colorado Boulder.

At the Altman Clinical and Translational Research Institute of the School of Medicine of the University of California, San Diego, Dr. Geiger teaches about omics tools in the Translational Research Fundamentals (CLRE-236) course in the Translational Science Certificate Program.



Wolfgang Glaesner, PhD

Dr. Wolfgang Glaesner is a protein biochemist with over 20 years of experience in the discovery and development of peptide, protein, and antibody therapeutics. He is currently the Chief Scientific Officer of Biotechnology Research & Development at the Lilly Biotechnology Center in San Diego, a part of the pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly. In this role, Dr. Glaesner focuses on the discovery and engineering of peptides and antibodies across all therapeutic areas, as well as the development of novel molecular formats, such as bi-specific antibodies, fusion antibodies, and antibody-drug conjugates. Notably, he led the discovery team that designed dulaglutide (TRULICITY), a best-in-class drug in the type 2 diabetes space.

Dr. Glaesner received his PhD in Biochemistry from the University of Gottingen, Germany, and completed a Postdoctoral Fellowship in Protein Chemistry at the pharmaceutical company Novartis, Basel, Switzerland.

At the Altman Clinical and Translational Research Institute of the School of Medicine of the University of California, San Diego, Dr. Glaesner teaches about biologics in the Applied Translational Research (CLRE-238) course in the Translational Science Certificate Program.



Mark S. Hixon, PhD

Dr. Mark Hixon is an innovative and multidisciplinary pharmaceutical industry professional with a successful record in drug development and over 20 years of experience. He is currently Senior Director of Modeling and Simulation at VeriSIM Life, a contract research organization, where he focuses on project strategic guidance and building translational bridges of clinical relevance. Earlier in his career, Dr. Hixon spent 14 years at Takeda Pharmaceuticals, where he notably led modeling and simulation efforts to make seminal contributions to multiple drug discovery and development project teams.

Dr. Hixon received his PhD in Medicinal Chemistry from the University of Kansas.

At the Altman Clinical and Translational Research Institute of the School of Medicine of the University of California, San Diego, Dr. Hixon teaches about clinical development in the Translational Research Fundamentals (CLRE-236) course in the Translational Science Certificate Program.



Robert Houghtaling, BA - Program Manager



Catriona Jamieson, MD, PhD - Course Co-Director



Kanthi A. Kollengode, MD, MAS

Dr. Kanthi Kollengode is currently Associate Medical Director for Clinical Development at the pharmaceutical company Bristol-Myers Squibb, where she is also Lead Physician for Ozanimod for Crohns Disease, which is in Phase 3 clinical trials. She received her MD degree from the Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences in Bangalore, India, where she focused on health education and outreach while working in free clinics and organizing health education and prevention programs for schools. Dr. Kollengode then completed a Clinical Research Fellowship in Hematology/Oncology at the University of Southern California and obtained her Master of Advanced Studies in Clinical Research at the University of California, San Diego.

At the Altman Clinical and Translational Research Institute of the School of Medicine of the University of California, San Diego, Dr. Kollengode teaches about biomarkers and diagnostics in the Translational Research Fundamentals (CLRE-236) course in the Translational Science Certificate Program.



Amit Kumar, PhD

Dr. Amit Kumar is an accomplished serial entrepreneur, investor, and innovator in the biotechnology space. He currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer, Chairman, and President of Anixa Biosciences, a biotechnology company focused on developing immunotherapies and vaccines in oncology and infectious diseases. Dr. Kumar is also a member of the American Cancer Society Boof Directors.

Dr. Kumar graduated from Occidental College with a BS in Chemistry and obtained his PhD in Physical Chemistry from the California Institute of Technology, and completed a Postdoctoral Fellowship in Chemistry at Harvard University.

At the Altman Clinical and Translational Research Institute of the School of Medicine of the University of California, San Diego, Dr. Kumar teaches about cell & gene therapy in the Translational Research Fundamentals (CLRE-236) course in the Translational Science Certificate Program.



Regent Laporte, DVM, MSc, PhD

Dr. Regent Laporte is a scientific leader in Translational Pharmacology with over 20 years of experience in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industry across multiple therapeutic areas, including Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Hepatology, Gastroenterology, Urology, and Reproductive Health. He is Founder and Principal Consultant at Laporte & Associates, a biotechnology and pharmaceutical R&D consulting company, and Senior Director of Translational Pharmacology at Peptide Logic, a biopharmaceutical startup company combining the advantages of synthetic peptides and recombinant antibodies to create innovative semi-synthetic biologics for the treatment of pain and other pathological conditions in select therapeutic areas. Previously, he was Director of Exploratory Pharmacology at Ferring Pharmaceuticals.

Dr. Laporte received his DVM and his MSc in Veterinary Anatomy and Physiology from the Universite de Montreal, Canada. He received his PhD in Pharmacology from the University of Vermont College of Medicine and completed Postdoctoral Fellowships in Cardiology and in Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology at Harvard Medical School.

At the Altman Clinical and Translational Research Institute of the School of Medicine of the University of California, San Diego, Dr. Laporte is Program Director of the Translational Science Certificate, Module Director of the Concentration in Translational Science of the Master of Advanced Studies in Clinical Research, and Course Director of Translational Research Fundamentals (CLRE-236), Applied Translational Research (CLRE-238), and Applied Translational Research II (CLRE-239).



Scott M. Lippman, MD



Tiana Mack-Miller, BS - Communication Assistant



Martin Marsala, MD



Patrick McConville, PhD

Dr. Patrick McConville has extensive knowledge in translational imaging, with over 20 years of industry experience in preclinical imaging for drug discovery and development applications, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron emission tomography (PET), computed tomography (CT), bioluminescence, fluorescence, and 2-dimensional X-ray. He is currently Vice President of the contract research organization inviCRO, which launched the first multi-modality imaging center in San Diego. In addition, he also serves as Professor of Practice in Radiology at the School of Medicine of the University of California San Diego where he specializes in industrial multi-modality translational and discovery imaging. Previously, Dr. McConville was a Co-Founder and the Chief Scientific Officer at Molecular Imaging Inc., a contract research organization that established the first multi-modality CRO imaging center in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Dr. McConville received his BSc (Hons) in Physica and Computer Science from the University of New South Wales, Australia, and his PhD in Medical Physics from the Queensland University of Technology, Australia.

At the Altman Clinical and Translational Research Institute of the School of Medicine of the University of California, San Diego, Dr. McConville teaches about translational imaging in the Translational Research Fundamentals (CLRE-236) course in the Translational Science Certificate Program.



Sheldon Morris, MD, MPH - Course Director



David G. Parkes, PhD

Dr. David Parkes has over 25 years of pharmaceutical industry experience in drug discovery and development across multiple therapeutic areas, including diabetes, obesity, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and steatohepatitis (NAFLD/NASH), and cardiovascular diseases. He is currently Chief Scientific Officer at Abvance Therapeutics, a pharmaceutical company focused on diabetes, as well as scientific consultant for other pharmaceutical companies, including Astra Zeneca, Gilead, Prosciento, Fractyl, and Prolynx. Earlier, he played pivotal leadership roles at Amylin Pharmaceuticals in the discovery and development of exenatide (BYETTA, BYDUREON), pramlintide (SYMLIN), and metreleptin (MYALEPT), three first-in-class drugs for the treatment of metabolic diseases.

Dr. Parkes received his BSc (Hons) in Pharmacology and his PhD in Pharmacology and Physiology from the University of Melbourne, Australia.

At the Altman Clinical and Translational Research Institute of the School of Medicine of the University of California, San Diego, Dr. Parkes teaches a drug case study in the Applied Translational Research (CLRE-238) course in the Translational Science Certificate Program.



Jeremy Pettus, MD



Jeremy Rich, MD, MHS, MBA



Pierre Riviere, PhD

Dr. Pierre Riviere is a pharmacologist by training with over 25 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry, primarily in drug discovery and early-stage development of peptide therapeutics. He is the Founder and currently Chief Executive Officer of Peptide Logic, a biopharmaceutical company combining the advantages of synthetic peptides and recombinant antibodies to create innovative semi-synthetic biologics for pain and other pathological conditions in select therapeutic areas. Prior to that, Dr. Riviere was Chief Scientific Officer of CovX, which was a Pfizer-owned biopharmaceutical company, as well as Senior Vice President of Pfizer Worldwide R&D.

Dr. Riviere received his PhD in Animal Physiology and Biology from the Institut National Polytechnique de Toulouse, France.

At the Altman Clinical and Translational Research Institute of the School of Medicine of the University of California, San Diego, Dr. Riviere teaches about drug discovery in the Translational Research Fundamentals (CLRE-236) course in the Translational Science Certificate Program.



Cristian Rodriguez, MD

Dr. Cristian Rodriguez has over 13 years of experience in biopharmaceutical development and global medical affairs. He is currently Senior Director in Immunology & Fibrosis and Clinical Trial Physician for Eosinophilic Esophagitis at Bristol-Myers Squibb (BMS) in San Diego. He was previously Medical Director in Innovative Medicines Development in Immunosciences at BMS in New Jersey. Prior to joining the pharmaceutical industry, Dr. Rodriguez was a Medical Officer in the Immune Tolerance Network at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NAID, NIH), after spending a decade as a clinical immunologist and allergist and attending professor at the University of Chile and Pediatric Immunology Clinic Head at the San Borja General Hospital in Santiago.

Dr. Rodriguez obtained his MD degree and completed his Residency in Clinical Immunology at the University of Chile, followed by a Fellowship in Pediatric Clinical Immunology, Allergy, and Rheumatology at the School of Medicine of the University of California, Los Angeles.

At the Altman Clinical and Translational Research Institute of the School of Medicine of the University of California, San Diego, Dr. Rodriguez mentors a student team in a drug case study in the Applied Translational Research II (CLRE-239) course in the Translational Science Certificate Program.



M. Paz Rodriguez, DDS, MS, MAS

Dr. Paz Rodriguez is an independent general dentist practicing in Santiago, Chile. After completing her Doctorate in Dental Surgery at the Universidad Finis Terrae in Santiago with a Minor in Communications, she obtained a Master of Science in Dental Implant Surgery and Rehabilitation from the Universidad de los Andes in Santiago. More recently, she completed her Master of Advanced Studies in Clinical Research at the University of California, San Diego.

At the Altman Clinical and Translational Research Institute of the School of Medicine of the University of California, San Diego, Dr. Rodriguez is Communication Director of the Translational Science Certificate, leveraging the entrepreneurial and communication expertise that she has developed as a patient-experience-focused independent general dentist and her interest in the transformative potential of translational science in healthcare. She is also Course Director of the Certificate Capstone Project (CLRE-40004), Course Co-Director of Translational Research Fundamentals (CLRE-236), and Course Manager of Applied Translational Research (CLRE-238) and Applied Translational Research II (CLRE-239).



Claudio D. Schteingart, PhD

Dr. Claudio Schteingart is currently an independent consultant with over 25 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry. He retired in 2018 as Vice President, Science & Technology  Research, at Ferring Pharmaceuticals where he was responsible for the evaluation of new technologies for the discovery and development of novel peptide therapeutics, for guiding drug discovery programs, and for supporting drug candidates in development. He contributed to the discovery of the peptidic GnRH antagonist degarelix, launched in 2009 as FIRMAGON, and many other peptidic drug candidates in various stages of clinical development for urology, womens health, critical care medicine, and gastroenterology.

Dr. Schteingart received a PhD in Chemistry from the University of Buenos Aires, Argentina. After postdoctoral studies in the Department of Chemistry of the University of California, San Diego, he moved to the Department of Medicine where he carried out research in the chemistry, physiology, metabolism, and physicochemical properties of biliary components and lipids.

At the Altman Clinical and Translational Research Institute of the School of Medicine of the University of California, San Diego, Dr. Schteingart is Course Co-Director of Applied Translational Research (CLRE-238) and Applied Translational Research II (CLRE-239) in the Translational Science Certificate Program.



Marina Seme Nelson, PhD

Dr. Marina Seme Nelson has over 20 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry and specializes in drug development and nonclinical safety assessment. She is currently Drug Development Leader for Early Phase Development Solutions at the contract research organization Covance, Inc., where she provides scientific and strategic direction to drug development programs and product development. Earlier, Dr. Nelson was Study Director and Drug Safety and Metabolism Representative at the pharmaceutical company Wyeth, where she led multi-disciplinary and global development teams.

Dr. Seme Nelson received her MS in Biotechnology from Northwestern University and her PhD in Pharmacology and Toxicology from the Medical College of Wisconsin.

At the Altman Clinical and Translational Research Institute of the School of Medicine of the University of California, San Diego, Dr. Seme Nelson teaches about nonclinical development in the Translational Research Fundamentals (CLRE-236) course in the Translational Science Certificate Program.



Vickie Sheckler



Robert Signer, PhD



Tiffany Tanaka, MD



John M. York, PharmD, MBA

Dr. John York is a commercially oriented marketing and medical professional with over 25 years in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries across multiples therapeutic areas, including hematology/oncology, ophthalmology, cardiovascular medicine, respiratory medicine, pediatrics, dermatology, and neurology. After assuming various leadership roles at the pharmaceutical companies Bristol-Myers Squibb, Amgen, and Allergan, and at the medical communications and consulting company HDI, he founded the medical communications and consulting company Akita Biomedical where he is currently Chief Executive Officer and Principal. He is also Lecturer and Lead Instructor at the Rady School of Management of the University of California, San Diego.

Dr. York received his PharmD degree from the University of Michigan and completed an Industry Postdoctoral Fellowship jointly offered by Rutgers University, Warner-Lamber, and Parke-Davis. He then obtained an MBA degree from Indiana University, as well as a Life Sciences Business Certificate and a Marketing Certificate from the University of California, Berkeley.

At the Altman Clinical and Translational Research Institute of the School of Medicine of the University of California, San Diego, Dr. York is Course Co-Director of the Capstone Project (CLRE-40004) in the Translational Science Certificate Program.



Holly Young, MSc


PEOPLE

Board, executive and private equity appointments mark busy week in people movement

Two companies added notable names to their boards of directors, while a space technology outfit hired an industry veteran to its leadership team and a private equity firm added a retired Marine Corps lieutenant general to its brain trust.

Here is a roundup of those appointments in the government market from within the past week.

CAE USA

Former Rep. Mac Thornberry, Brian Morra and CAE Chief Financial Officer Sonya Branco are new members of the board of directors at the U.S. subsidiary of Montreal-headquartered CAE.

Thornberry retired from Congress in December 2020 after 26 years on Capitol Hill with much of his tenure including service on the House Armed Services Committee and four years as HASC chairman.

Morra spent 12 years at Northrop and is a four-decade defense industry veteran, while Branco has led CAEs finance activities for the past five years.

Forcepoint

The spinoff of Raytheon now backed by private equity welcomed back one of its former CEOs to a seat on the board of directors alongside two other new members.

John McCormack led Forcepoint from 2013 until 2016 in a tenure that included the commercial cyber companys rebranding to its current identity after Raytheon became majority owner of the venture.

Matt Dircks is CEO of BeyondTrust and his 25-year career also includes stops at BMC Software, Quest Software, NetIQ and Citrix Systems.

John Zangardi is a former chief information officer for the Defense and Homeland Security departments. He currently is president of Redhorse Corp. and was formerly a senior vice president at Leidos.

Maxar Technologies

Former Boeing executive Chris Johnson will join the Earth imagery and satellite producer on May 24 as senior vice president of space programs delivery.

Johnson will oversee design, manufacturing, integration, test and delivery for the companys portfolio of space platforms and space-based robotics systems. He will lead a team of 1,900 employees at the companys facilities in Palo Alto, San Jose and Pasadena, California.

Johnson most recently was president of Boeings commercial satellite business.

Pine Island Capital Partners

The latest partner to join the private investment firm is Vincent Stewart, a retired Marine Corps lieutenant general and former director of the Defense Intelligence Agency.

Stewart was the first-ever Marine to lead DIA and is also a former deputy director of U.S. Cyber Command, where he served until his retirement in 2019.

Pine Island is headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, Florida and its leadership team is full of veterans from government and industry.
The government has announced a 15 million fund to revitalise rural communities.

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys, says the 2021 Town and Village Renewal Scheme will improve towns and villages post Covid-19, making them more attractive places to live, work and socialise.

The initiative is a key part of Our Rural Future  the Governments five-year strategy to revitalise rural Ireland.

It aims to tackle the issue of dereliction in town centres by turning vacant properties into remote working facilities and digital hubs.

The funds will also be used for investment in green spaces, parks and recreational amenities, improving shop fronts and enhancing the night-time economy.

Each local authority can submit eight projects of varying scale, including two projects to the value of 250,000 and one project to the value of 500,000.

The scheme typically funds rural towns and villages with a population of up to 10,000 people.

This year, larger rural towns with a population of up to 15,000 people may be eligible where the application is "particularly strong" and the project will have a significant impact.

Minister Humphreys says she is "determined" to make towns and villages better places to live.

"This is a 15 million fund to renovate derelict buildings, to support remote working and town centre living and to carry out improvements to shop fronts and streetscapes.

Since the launch of the Town and Village Renewal Scheme in 2016, almost 93 million has been allocated to more than 1,300 projects.

Over the next few years, I want the scheme to target key projects that will make an even bigger impact on our towns, on our villages and on the people that live there.

"I want the scheme to tackle vacancy and dereliction in particular, and bring these spaces back into use as remote working and digital hubs, as well as other community facilities.

"This is all about breathing new life into our rural towns and villages and most importantly providing a better quality of life to our rural citizens."
Aethon has a terrific lineup of military sci-fi books and are plowing forward to conquer a big chunk of that market.--Jonathan Maberry

Jonathan Maberry and Weston Ochse have inked a three-book deal with Aethon Books to publish The Sleepers, a space opera series with a strong military structure. The plot of The Sleepers regards humanity creating teams of genetically enhanced super soldiers to defeat an army of invading aliens known as the Flock. But when the Flock is defeated and no longer needed, what will be done with them becomes humanitys greatest question.

Rhett Bruno and Steve Beaulieu founded Sci-Fi & Fantasy Publisher Aethon Books in 2018. They are most known for publishing books by bestsellers such as Paul Antony Jones, Joshua Gayou, Yudhanjaya Wijeratne, as well as a work of original science fiction by Actor Lou Diamond Phillips.

Beaulieu states: Aethon Books is honored to sign two prolific authors who have had such incredible careers. Says Bruno: We plan to use our unique brand of marketing to help broaden the audience of our new signers as well as bring another tremendous work of science fiction to our readers.

The authors had this to say about choosing Aethon:

Aethon has a terrific lineup of military sci-fi books and are plowing forward to conquer a big chunk of that market, said Maberry. And theyre having a lot of fun doing it. Sleepers has found the right home for sure.

The chance to partner with Jonathan Maberry has been one of my greatest wishes, said Weston Ochse. Working together, I am convinced that Sleepers is going to take the world by storm and I am extremely pleased that Aethon will helm its trajectory.

Maberry is a New York Times bestselling author, a five-time Bram Stoker Award winner, comic book writer, and editor of Weird Tales Magazine. His vampire apocalypse book series, V Wars, is a Netflix original series starring Ian Somerhalder (Vampire Diaries). His other works include the Joe Ledger thrillers, Glimpse, the Rot & Ruin series, and the Dead of Night series.

Ochse is called one of the major horror authors of the 21st Century by the American Library Association. Hes won the Bram Stoker Award, been nominated for the Pushcart Prize, and won four New Mexico-Arizona Book Awards. His military supernatural series SEAL Team 666 has been optioned for film by Dwayne Johnson.

The deal was negotiated on the authors behalf by Sara Crowe of Pippin Properties. The first novel in the Sleeper Series is scheduled for release in Spring 2022.
Story Highlights 53% of workers worldwide stopped working temporarily

32% lost their jobs or businesses

About half saw their hours (49%) or wages cut (50%)

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- As the COVID-19 pandemic sent shockwaves across the global economy last year, Gallup surveys in 117 countries and territories in 2020 show the pandemic damaged more than a billion people's livelihoods in its wake.

At least some percentage of workers in all countries and territories stopped working temporarily, lost their jobs, worked fewer hours or earned less than usual because of the pandemic, but people in lower-income countries with large informal economies suffered on the largest scale.

More Than 1 Billion Lost Their Jobs or Businesses

Gallup asked people about the effect of the coronavirus on their livelihoods in the second half of 2020. By that time, much of the world was through the first wave of the global pandemic and prepping for a second, but all countries were at different stages. The negative economic effects were felt far and wide.

Globally, nearly one in three people who had jobs at the time of the pandemic (32%) said they lost their job or business because of the coronavirus situation -- translating into just over 1 billion adults.

Worldwide, the percentages of people who lost their jobs or businesses ranged from a high of 64% in the Philippines and Kenya to a low of 3% in Switzerland.

Heat map. Worldwide, nearly one in three people who had jobs at the time of the pandemic (32%) and said they lost their job or business because of the coronavirus situation -- translating into just over 1 billion adults.

A least half of workers in eight mostly low to lower-middle income countries lost their jobs or businesses because of the pandemic. This includes 53% of workers in India, which suffered more than any other country in the world in terms of the sheer number of people who lost their livelihoods. An estimated 400 million Indian workers lost their jobs or businesses. For comparison, in the U.S., 13% said they lost their job or business -- or about 30 million people.

Countries/Areas Where at Least Half of Workers Lost Their Jobs or Businesses % Yes, lost job Philippines 64 Kenya 64 Zimbabwe 62 Zambia 56 Thailand 56 Peru 54 India 53 Honduras 50 Gallup World Poll, 2020

An Estimated 1.7 Billion Stopped Working Temporarily

Temporary layoffs and business closures skyrocketed as many countries went on lockdown to control the spread of the coronavirus. More than half of workers (53%) worldwide said they temporarily stopped working at their job or business because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Projected to the global population, this translates into roughly 1.7 billion adults.

The percentages of workers who stopped working temporarily ranged from a high of 79% of workers in Zimbabwe to a low of 6% in Germany.

Heat map. The percentages of workers who stopped working temporarily ranged from a high of 79% of workers in Zimbabwe to a low of 6% in Germany.

In 57 countries and territories, the majority of adults who had jobs said they temporarily stopped working. This group disproportionately consisted of low- and lower-middle income countries, including India, where 67% of workers -- or an estimated 518 million people -- stopped working at least temporarily.

Countries/Areas Where a Majority of Workers Stopped Working Temporarily % Yes % Yes Zimbabwe 79 Morocco 61 Philippines 77 Dominican Republic 61 Peru 75 Iraq 61 Bolivia 74 Colombia 61 Burkina Faso 71 Algeria 60 Kenya 71 Sri Lanka 60 Egypt 71 Ghana 60 Jordan 70 Nigeria 60 Bangladesh 70 Kosovo 59 Zambia 70 Venezuela 59 Myanmar 70 Guatemala 59 Ecuador 70 Togo 58 Mongolia 69 Vietnam 58 El Salvador 68 Guinea 57 Honduras 67 Mexico 56 India 67 Kyrgyzstan 56 Iran 67 Brazil 56 Ethiopia 67 South Africa 55 Thailand 66 Namibia 55 Lebanon 66 Laos 55 Paraguay 66 Chile 54 Georgia 66 Pakistan 54 Uganda 66 Argentina 54 Mauritius 64 Tanzania 53 Cameroon 64 Albania 52 Ivory Coast 63 Costa Rica 52 Senegal 63 Benin 52 Tunisia 62 Uzbekistan 51 Gabon 62 Gallup World Poll, 2020

The countries and areas where people were least likely to say they stopped working temporarily are predominantly developed, high-income countries and areas. For example, fewer than one in 10 of those who had jobs in Austria (7%), Switzerland (7%) and Germany (6%) said they had stopped working temporarily. The U.S. fell closer to the middle of the pack at 39%.

Nearly 2 Billion Worked Fewer Hours

Worldwide, workers saw their hours slashed as employers tried to lower costs and avoid layoffs in 2020. Nearly half of those who had jobs during the pandemic last year (49%) said they worked fewer hours at their job or business because of it. This translates into about 1.6 billion adults.

Worldwide, the percentages of workers putting in fewer hours ranged from a high of 76% in Thailand and Bolivia to a low of 17% in Sweden.

Heat map. Worldwide, the percentages of workers putting in fewer hours ranged from a high of 76% in Thailand and Bolivia to a low of 17% in Sweden.

In 54 countries and areas, the majority of workers said they worked fewer hours because of the coronavirus situation. There are few high-income countries on that list, and no high-income countries near the top, where at least two-thirds of workers said they worked fewer hours.

Countries/Areas Where Majority of Workers Worked Fewer Hours % Yes % Yes Thailand 76 Colombia 61 Bolivia 76 Lebanon 61 Philippines 75 Guinea 61 Kenya 73 Bangladesh 60 Zimbabwe 73 Ghana 60 Paraguay 69 Mongolia 59 Egypt 69 Mauritius 58 Guatemala 69 Mexico 58 Myanmar 69 Namibia 57 Honduras 68 Pakistan 57 Cameroon 68 Vietnam 57 Dominican Republic 67 Benin 56 Venezuela 67 Argentina 56 Togo 66 Indonesia 56 Nigeria 66 Tanzania 55 Ecuador 66 Albania 55 Uganda 66 Ethiopia 54 Ivory Coast 66 Tunisia 54 El Salvador 66 South Africa 54 Peru 65 Kyrgyzstan 53 Senegal 65 Laos 53 Zambia 65 Jamaica 52 Gabon 64 Costa Rica 52 Jordan 64 Nicaragua 52 Burkina Faso 64 Kosovo 52 Iran 64 Iraq 52 Algeria 63 Brazil 51 Gallup World Poll, 2020

In the United States, workers were considerably less likely than the global average to report working fewer hours. However, more than four in 10 American workers (41%) said they worked less.

Nearly 2 Billion Saw Their Earnings Cut

If workers managed to hold on to their jobs, many saw their earnings cut as their employers tried to reduce costs and stay afloat. Some estimates from researchers at the University of Chicago suggest that in the U.S. alone, twice as many workers had their pay cut during the pandemic than in the Great Recession.

Americans were not alone. Globally, half of those with jobs at the time of the survey (50%) said they received less money than usual from their employers because of the COVID-19 pandemic. This translates into about 1.6 billion adults.

Worldwide, the percentage of workers who earned less than usual ranged from a high of 76% in Thailand to a low of 10% in Switzerland.

Heat map. Worldwide, the percentage of workers who earned less than usual ranged from a high of 76% in Thailand to a low of 10% in Switzerland.

In 54 countries and areas, the majority of workers who were employed at the time of the survey said they took home less money than usual because of the coronavirus situation. Again, most of these countries were lower-income economies where many workers were already struggling to make ends meet.

Countries/Areas Where Majority of Workers Received Less Money Than Usual % Yes % Yes Thailand 76 Lebanon 61 Bolivia 75 Burkina Faso 61 Myanmar 75 Guinea 61 Kenya 74 Ethopia 61 Uganda 72 Mauritius 61 Indonesia 72 Iran 59 Honduras 71 Venezuela 59 Ecuador 71 Gabon 58 Peru 69 South Africa 58 Philippines 68 Jamaica 58 Zimbabwe 68 Costa Rica 57 Cameroon 68 Mexico 57 Nigeria 68 Nepal 57 Zambia 68 Albania 57 Paraguay 67 Namibia 56 El Salvador 67 Cambodia 56 Egypt 66 Sri Lanka 56 Guatemala 66 India 55 Senegal 65 Laos 55 Ghana 65 Vietnam 55 Togo 65 Kyrgyzstan 54 Colombia 65 Tanzania 54 Ivory Coast 64 Kosovo 53 Bangladesh 63 Mongolia 53 Jordan 62 Pakistan 52 Dominican Republic 62 Nicaragua 52 Benin 61 Argentina 52 Gallup World Poll, 2020

Looking Ahead

At a minimum, these results outline the scope of the impact that the COVID-19 pandemic had on people's livelihoods around the world. Workers in all countries were affected to some degree, but particularly those in low-income countries will find recovery more difficult.

The full picture of what happened in the world at work will come into sharper focus in coming weeks and months, with Gallup's analysis in the State of the Global Workplace report in June, which will explore employee engagement, life evaluations and worker's daily emotions.

Learn more about how the Gallup World Poll works.
Art Director

Remuneration: R28000 - R35000 per month Basic salary Location: Johannesburg Education level: Diploma Job level: Mid Type: Permanent Reference: #YG#ArtDirector#JHB Company: Cardilogix

To conceptualise and, using your imaginary design skills, produce award-winning creative work within the scope of the brand and creative brief supplied. Present to the client.

Work closely with the creative director and, as directed, by the creative brief.

The responsibility vests in the attitude, behaviour, determination and accountability to pursue all avenues in order to ensure that the end product/design craft is of a high standard.

By taking ownership and making use of all available resources, the end product/design craft should project keen attention to detail.

Exceptional drawing skills (as in slick rendering and scamps) - a necessity for art directors and nice to have for designers.

Exceptionally fast conceptual skills.

Capable of driving copy and guiding the response mechanisms.

Thorough understanding of promotional activities and experiential marketing disciplines.

A portfolio that demonstrates these skills beyond a shadow of doubt and the results of the activities to prove it.

Finely honed graphic design skills and latest techniques

Capability to take on campaigns with multi-element tasks which require a concept and a thought-through process, as well as briefing the copywriters with specific objectives and tasks at hand.

Fully Mac literate in all relevant programs.

Must have a diploma or similar in art direction from a design college or similar

Minimum three to five years' experience as an art director - essential

Team player

Hard-working, conscientious

Creative thinker  cross boundaries to conceptualise

Work under pressure

Goal-orientated achiever

Pro-active thinker

Key responsibilities (broad description)

Our client seeks to hire a talented mid-weightto join their team. The search is on to find the perfect candidate who combines conceptual and creative excellence with experience in design.This is a key role within the agency. You will be an art director across a number of extremely high profile accounts and will constantly champion excellent creative standards throughout the company. You will be working closely with a team of client service personnel and the creative director.You must be willing to work on a host of different accounts such as posters, print, billboards, advertising, promotions, brands, etc. (Full TTL function)Send samples in either pdf or jpeg format of your very best work, not exceeding four megs to our offices. Posted on 03 May 10:18
Scott Distler: Finding a way out of 'the cave'
Andrea R. Lacy discussing with students how she overcame dyslexia while attending San Jose State University. When I think about all the folks that have supported me over the years and have never given up, this is my way of giving back to the community, said Andrea.

The entry deadline for the "Grit Award" Scholarship is fast approaching. Up to three scholarships, each worth $500, will be awarded to students whove shown grit and determination in overcoming their own personal challenges and are now pursuing higher education or vocational training. To be eligible, students must provide 500 word-word essay describing your grit story, letters of recommendation, proof of community service, proof you have been accepted as a full time student at a four year college, community college or vocational school and proof of financial hardship. Applications must be submitted by Friday May 28th 10pm PST at http://www.luvsbrownies.com/scholarship.

This is the inaugural year for the "Grit Award" Scholarship founded by Luv's Brownies owner Andrea (pronounced Aundrea) Lacy. The reason for the financial award was simple, When I think about all the folks that have supported me over the years and have never given up, this is my way of giving back to the community, said Andrea.

If anyone understands the concept of never giving up, it's Andrea. Without knowing she had dyslexia she had to work three jobs while attending university to pay for her post-secondary tuition, room and board, and books. To many of her friends, family and co-workers, she is the definition of "grit." "It was one of my board members that suggested we call it the "grit" award because we wanted to recognize other tenacious students, said Andrea.

About Luvs Brownies:

After 25 years, Luvs Brownies is still home to the Original Heart-Shaped Brownie. It all began in October 1996, when Andrea first started baking her sweet brownies in her apartment while attending San Jose State University. She noticed that the dough was thick but baked the brownies anyway. At the same time, she was struggling with her algebra classes. In fact, she failed the same math class five times. Fortunately, her counselor advised her to get tested for a learning disability. She was diagnosed with dyslexia and soon realized that shed transposed some of the measurements in her brownie recipe without knowing she was dyslexic. This solidified Andreas belief that some impairments can often be true blessings in disguise.

Since then, Luv's Brownies has developed 14 different flavors including rocky road, peanut butter brownie s'more and coconut caramel. They now have a mobile dessert truck serving fresh baked brownies and ice cream with housemade caramel and waffle bowls and cones. Inspired by Andreas Cuban heritage the dessert truck also offers Cuban drinks (Cafe Cubano, mocktail Mojito). The truck is available throughout Santa Clara County/Silicon Valley. The online bakery also offers mail order gifts as well as brownie wedding cakes. Luv's Brownies has been featured on Good Morning America and in magazines such as Rachel Ray, Essence, and the cover of Black Enterprise. Andrea is also an author of Brownie Points, Seven Steps to Success for Woman Entrepreneurs from One Who Made it. For more information on Luvs Brownies, please visit http://www.luvsbrownies.com.

For inquiries contact pr@optidge.com.
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Copyright  2021 Albuquerque Journal

It would be weeks before grocery store shelves ran bare, children were sent home from school and the pandemic was officially declared.

But Rhiannon Chavez-Ross already knew she would have to quit her job.

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Im high-risk, and so I knew immediately, before we even talked about a shutdown, that I couldnt risk being sick, she said. Im a single mom, and theres no way I could chance anything happening.

The owner of an event planning company, Chavez-Ross says her stay on unemployment has far outlasted her expectations, and more than a year after receiving unemployment she is still unable to return to work.

Her experience is not unique.

As New Mexico moves closer to reopening, the state still has one of the highest rates of unemployment in the country with more than 90,000 New Mexicans currently receiving jobless benefits, according to data from the Department of Workforce Solutions.

Business leaders have vocally blamed higher unemployment benefits for keeping workers from seeking jobs, but Chavez-Ross, others in her position and worker advocates say its not that simple.

Theres so many factors at play and people ideally want to go back to work. They want to go back to their real job. Nobody likes fighting with the unemployment office, but nobody wants to go back to a minimum wage (job) and risk their family getting sick, she said. Maybe if they were offered enough money to live on it would be different.  It needs to be something that we can survive on.

Chavez-Ross said workers are upset that they are being blamed for not wanting to go back to work because there are so many reasons for that decision, including vaccinations, uncertain school schedules for parents, lack of child care programs and unreliable incomes.

You never know if your job is going to be stable the next day, she said.  So the issue is people are going back to work and not knowing that their hours are going to be less than what their weekly benefit would be.

On Wednesday, Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham addressed unemployment rates during a speech to business leaders and said her administration is planning to announce policies aimed at incentivizing people to go back to work in the near future.

Details of the plan have not been released.

Her address came on the heels of complaints from business owners and industry groups who claim businesses are competing against unemployment benefits, which has resulted in a surplus of jobs and a shortage of workers.

Jobless New Mexicans can earn a weekly minimum of $90 through state unemployment programs, and a federal aid package provides an additional $300 weekly benefit, according to earlier reports.

By comparison, a full-time minimum wage worker would take home $420 per week before tax  just $30 more than the minimum weekly unemployment amount with federal benefits.

While unemployment benefits rival earnings for minimum wage workers, Michael Mo ODonnell, interim director of the Bureau of Business & Economic Research at the University of New Mexico, said it is unlikely unemployment benefits alone are the cause behind high unemployment rates and ample job openings.

Experience sort of suggests that its not that people dont want to work, necessarily. I think people do in general want to work, he said.  But this is uniquely different now with and because of the pandemic.

ODonnell said the pandemic has changed the calculus for workers who are now weighing uncertainty in employment, potential exposure to the virus, fewer child care options in addition to pre-pandemic issues of low wage jobs with few benefits against steady unemployment benefits equal to or greater than minimum wage incomes.

If youre a worker and you dont know for sure that youre going to be able to work next week, or your hours might get cut because the demand for whatever is being sold at your establishment is relatively low, then you have to put that uncertainty in your calculation, he said.

ODonnell said trends surrounding unemployment and a shortage of workers have renewed discussions surrounding higher minimum wages, access to child care and other workplace protections.

This has actually brought some of these issues that have been around for some time, that people have talked about it, both at the state and federal levels, I think, more directly to the forefront, he said.  Even after the pandemic sort of fades away, these topics are still going to be items for discussion and debate.

Central issues in play

For worker rights organizations, talks around a shortage of employees has highlighted issues that have long been central to their organizations, like ensuring higher pay and paid sick leave for workers.

OLE Education Fund Executive Director Matthew Henderson said the pandemic has shown ways in which low wage workers are mistreated by employers.

I think the pandemic has just made workers realize that its not worth working for an employer who isnt going to pay them a living wage, and, you know, give them basic protections, he said.  Its just not worth it even if things in New Mexico have improved in regards to COVID.

Henderson said some businesses have realized that living wages and benefits actually saves them money and those employers are not the ones struggling to fill open positions.

Emily Mayer, a former restaurant worker in Santa Fe, said many workers are unemployed due to being let go by employers and it is not up to workers to keep struggling businesses afloat.

My priority is to myself and my family, Mayer said. And its not our role  to carry the burden for any industry.

Mayer said she is tired of hearing comments from business owners blaming unemployment or workers not applying for their troubles because it turns those workers into scapegoats for a much larger issue.

Im very disappointed that some of these businesses and trade groups are out there publicly shaming workers, Mayer said. Every day essential workers and unemployed workers continue to assess our exposure and our risks.

Carol Wight, CEO of the New Mexico Restaurant Industry, said that while the higher unemployment benefits seem to be the main reason behind restaurants being unable to hire people, other factors are also at play.

Were the industry that has laid off so many people and now were the industry that needs them back and theyre not coming, Wight said.

She said the lack of employees could be due to several reasons including lower wage workers moving to better paying jobs, overworked employees quitting and some workers not wanting to work until they are fully vaccinated. Other causes, like workers leaving the state for new jobs, may also factor in.

Wight said she is seeing wages rise in some restaurants, but small businesses can only increase their pay so much before it translates into higher product costs and potentially lost sales.

While leaders of many businesses, particularly in the food industry, have expressed their frustration when it comes to finding employees, not all restaurants are experiencing the same difficulties.

Dions president Mark Herman said that while the restaurant is experiencing a greater hiring need than usual, it is not unprecedented.

Herman said average starting pay at the pizza chain ranges from $11 to $12 an hour and the company offers paid time off. Employees also can be eligible for raises several times a year.

Dions maintains a focus on internal growth and promotion opportunities, he wrote in an email.  Were proud that all 25 of our restaurant general managers began as store employees and the same is true for much of our leadership team, including myself as CEO.

Herman said Dions was able to avoid mass layoffs at the beginning of the pandemic, unlike many other businesses in the food industry, and the company was well suited to adjusting to a take-out only model.

We dont want to be shut down

The assessment of potential risks stemming from a service job can partly fuel some workers decisions not to return to the workforce.

Chavez-Ross said the combination of watching her children and not wanting to be exposed to the virus while also being unable to run her business has kept her on unemployment benefits, but even that can be a hassle.

We dont want to be shut down, we want to be at work, she said. Its not like were seeking a hand out, we have to have this, were not allowed to be open.

Chavez-Ross said she doesnt want to have to be on benefits and navigating the bureaucratic process can often be frustrating, and there are few people that are able to answer necessary questions.

I know everybody thinks that we get rich off the extra bonus from the federal government, but thats not consistent, she said. Theres been weeks and weeks without that extra bonus because it hasnt been available.

She said that her experience with unemployment benefits has been awful due to a lack of communication from the Department of Workforce Solutions, notices for overpayment of unemployment benefits and other similar hurdles.

Theres so many issues with this system, you cant rely on it at all. You never know even if that payment is coming or not, she said.
Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan have completed the process of withdrawing their military units from the border. This was reported on Monday by the Border Service of the State Committee for National Security of Kyrgyzstan.

"The parties have completed the withdrawal of additional forces and resources from the state border line to the depths of their territories," the respective statement said.

According to the aforesaid border agency, the joint commission, which includes representatives of the two countries' defense ministries, continues to inspect the area on which the military units and military equipment were previously stationed.

The situation on the border and in the surrounding areas is currently "stable," and "no incidents or shootings were reported" last night.
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Exxon Mobil and Chevron generated the most free cash flow in more than a year as economies around the world claw their way out of lockdowns, boosting energy demand.

Rallying crude prices and demand for chemicals used in plastics more than offset losses from refining oil as the largest North American explorers disclosed first-quarter results on Friday.

Despite living up to Wall Streets profit expectations, Chevron shares dropped 2.4% after disappointing investors who were anticipating a revival of share buybacks. Although Exxons deep refining losses were blunted by chemical profits, the stock declined by 1.7%.

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All the supermajors are making money again after crudes 30% year-to-date rally to more than $65 a barrel, buoyed by rising energy demand as economies emerge from the pandemic and OPEC holds the line on big supply increases. BP, Royal Dutch Shell and Total all preceded their U.S. peers with bigger-than-expected profits.

Exxons roughly $6 billion in free cash flow was more than enough to cover its mammoth dividend, the first time the oil giant has been able to do that since late 2018. Chevron posted $3.4 billion in first-quarter cash flow, enough to fund its recently increased dividend, which is a closely watched metric for the oil supermajors.

For both companies, a key driver of the cash-flow increases was steep spending cuts as less-risky endeavors such as shale drilling were favored over costlier mega-projects. Exxon cut capital expenditures by more than half while Chevrons was down 43% from a year ago. Neither have plans to boost spending in light of higher oil prices, a sign that discipline is holding for now.

Exxon earned 64 cents a share in the first quarter, beating the 61-cent average estimate from analysts in a Bloomberg survey. The oil giants exploration and drilling division drove most of the gains but it also received a substantial tailwind from higher chemicals prices that helped offset losses incurred during the deadly February storm in Texas.

Exxons turnaround from last years unprecedented string of losses will help restore investor faith in its ability to maintain and even grow the S&Ps third-largest dividend, the cornerstone of Chief Executive Officer Darren Woods pitch to Wall Street. Unlike European rivals Shell and BP, Exxon didnt cut payouts last year, but the decision came at a cost: borrowings increased 44% to almost $68 billion. Exxon reduced debt by around $4 billion this quarter.

Chevron posted adjusted per-share profit of 90 cents, according to a statement, matching the average of analysts forecasts. Results across the sector signal the worst may be over from the dual menace of a worldwide glut and demand-killing COVID-19 lockdowns.

Amid the brightening outlook, significant challenges remain. Chevrons U.S. refining network lost money for the third time in four quarters, while its overseas fuel-making plants slashed crude-processing by 16% to cope with anemic demand for transportation fuels.

Both companies cited the negative impacts of the deadly winter storm that afflicted Texas in mid-February.

Chevron wants to begin buying back shares but declined to provide a time line, reiterating the position announced in March.

As we look forward, we expect to begin the repurchase of shares when were confident that we can sustain a buyback program for multiple years through the oil price cycle, Chief Financial Officer Pierre Breber said in remarks prepared for a Friday morning conference call with analysts.
There are problems with security on our countrys borders. This is what former deputy of the ruling My Step alliance and current independent MP Taguhi Tovmasyan said during Mondays National Assembly special session to discuss the matter of electing a Prime Minister of Armenia.

According to her, Nagorno-Karabakh was the guarantor of Armenias security, not the opposite. Tovmasyan also stated that acting Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyans response to a question about border security sparked her concern. It actually turns out that there are things going on that we cant see. The frontline is in the same situation, and in essence, nothing has changed over the past six months. Its strange that we cant see the efforts being made, the parliamentarian said.
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PHOENIX  A woman is dead after she was struck by one of two cars that were believed to be street racing, Phoenix police said Monday.

They said 28-year-old Charissa Coleman was pronounced dead at a hospital after Sunday nights crash.

According to police, Coleman was making a left turn on a street when a passenger car slammed into her vehicle at a high rate of speed.

A bystander pulled the unconscious woman from her vehicle and began performing CPR.

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Police said the 34-year-old man who was driving the passenger car remains hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries and will be arrested on suspicion of manslaughter after hes discharged.

Witnesses told police the crash appears to have involved two vehicles that were street racing and one left the scene after the fatal collision.

Police have been trying to crack down on street racing around the city.

In March, the Phoenix City Council approved a new ordinance allowing police to impound a car involved with street racing or reckless driving for up to 30 days.
By Ngaire Woods





OXFORD  On April 8, French President Emmanuel Macron announced that he will close France's elite postgraduate school for training public leaders, the Ecole Nationale d'Administration (ENA). Macron, himself an enarque (as graduates are known), says he wants to encourage equal opportunity and national excellence, and respond better to the challenges of COVID-19. But eliminating ENA will likely represent only a negligible step toward this goal.



Ironically, ENA was established in 1945 by General Charles de Gaulle to break up the French elite and overturn a system of patronage and spoils that had produced a corrupt and inefficient public administration. Admission to the school was thus subject to competitive examination, with those winning places offered a salary for their studies.



Similarly, the United Kingdom's Northcote-Trevelyan reforms a century earlier  which drew on Sir Charles Trevelyan's experience rooting out corruption in Britain's Indian civil service, as well as on the example of imperial China  sought to introduce recruitment by open, competitive examination, and make promotion merit-based. Subsequently, almost all countries  from the United States, Japan, and China to Ghana and Nigeria  have sought to embed meritocracy in their public administration, many by using examinations.



The problem today is that the examination system no longer serves to identify talent and equalize opportunity, but instead has fueled a growing market in expensive private preparatory education that benefits wealthier students. So, whereas 29 percent of ENA students in the 1950s came from working-class backgrounds, by 2003, it was only 9 percent.



Likewise, standardized U.S. college-entry tests, originally intended to help top universities diversify their applicant pool beyond rich students from exclusive prep schools, are now seen as "a proxy for privilege." This year, a revolution took place when COVID-19 disruptions meant that university admissions departments had to make test results optional.



This led to a huge increase in applications to top schools and to more diverse freshman classes. The University of California, Los Angeles, for example, reported a 48 percent increase in African-American applicants, a 33 percent increase in Hispanic applicants, and a 16 percent increase in American Indian applicants.



In the U.K., pupils from private fee-paying schools had until recently been seven times more likely to gain a place at Oxford or Cambridge than those from non-selective state schools. Oxford now uses contextual data that considers students' individual backgrounds to understand their achievements, which is increasing undergraduate diversity.



Then there is the problem of elite universities themselves relying heavily on examinations to test, drill, and rank their students, as ENA famously does (Macron came fifth in his cohort). A more effective approach would focus on the interpersonal skills vital for good public service, such as learning to mobilize, support, and encourage others, and discerning people's abilities. A diverse public service will be a stronger one only if those in charge know how to make diversity a strength.



ENA was a solution to two major challenges. In 1945, France needed to attract the best possible talent into its public administration to rebuild after World War II. Equally, the government needed to comprehend and represent a wide range of citizens, rich and poor, and prove that it could serve them better than communism could.



Today, many governments face a similar task. To build back rapidly from the pandemic (as China is already doing), they must step in after decades of standing back. And they must rebuild public trust in the face of a powerful populist backlash against "elitist" government.



Professional schools' admissions should therefore reflect what the public sector needs rather than what is administratively convenient. This might mean relying less on test scores and more on alternative measures of ability, which take time, experienced judgment, and adequate resources to develop and implement. Educating public leaders will also require public-sector organizations to invest in supporting their employees' studies, and extensive fundraising so that a diverse range of students can attend.



Keeping these leaders in public service is another challenge. When asked why enarques are increasingly choosing the private sector over public administration, one recent student said that French government ministries were employing big consultancy firms to make strategic decisions that graduates once made.



The French government has signed at least 575 contracts with private consultancies since October 2018, for services ranging from developing economic recovery plans to charting a zero-carbon transition to helping combat COVID-19: McKinsey & Company, not the Ministry of Health, seems to be leading the country's vaccine rollout. Likewise, the U.K.'s COVID-19 test-and-trace system was set up almost entirely by consultants and outsourcing firms. The U.K. government has even turned to consultants to advise it on how to reduce its reliance on consultants.



If governments give the exciting policy work to outside firms, some of the best civil servants will leave. By contrast, smart public agencies, for example in Singapore, give strategically important assignments to their best employees to retain them and develop their skills.



Moreover, when politicians and their advisers denigrate "bureaucrats" or "the blob" (as a former U.K. government adviser described the British civil service), they may well be creating a self-fulfilling prophecy. If the narrative is that the public sector is useless, what hope is there that it will attract or keep outstanding people?



Britain's successful COVID-19 vaccine rollout has highlighted the benefits of keeping government in the driver's seat, bolstered by private-sector leaders willing to help pro bono. This arrangement combines the best of the public sector  people's trust in institutions that are vaccinating people  with the advantages of a venture-capital approach to assessing risk and allocating resources.



Three weeks after Macron's announcement, it is now clear that he is not abolishing ENA but rather reducing its annual intake (from 80 students to 40) and renaming it. But the challenge for France is to build a public administration ambitious enough to attract people of purpose and talent, but also open enough to recruit from a much wider cross-section of society. Tinkering with ENA will not achieve this.





Ngaire Woods is dean of the Blavatnik School of Government at the University of Oxford. This article was distributed by Project Syndicate (www.project-syndicate.org).


The share of Indias oil imports from OPEC dropped to their lowest in at least 20 years in the fiscal year ended March 2021 as the worlds third-largest oil importer saw total imports drop and sought to diversify its oil suppliers, according to industry and trade obtained by Reuters.

In the 2020/2021 fiscal year, Indias overall oil imports fell by nearly 12 percent compared to the previous fiscal year and averaged around 3.97 million barrels per day (bpd), according to the trade and industry data cited by Reuters.

Of all those imports, the share of OPEC slumped to 72 percent from 80 percent in the 2019/2020 fiscal yearthe lowest share of crude oil imports from OPEC since at least 2000/2001.

The lower overall crude oil imports between April 2020 and March 2021 are not surprising, considering the reduced demand for fuel and lower refinery runs in Indiaand everywhere in the worldat the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in the spring of last year.

Indias oil demand is estimated to have declined in 2020 for the first time in more than 20 years due to the pandemic.

According to the data from the Petroleum Planning & Analysis Cell (PPAC), India spent US$61.9 billion on crude oil imports in April 2020-March 2021, down from US$101.4 billion in 2019/2020.

While some of the lower import bill was due to the lower imported volumes, most of the drastic decline in Indias spending on crude was because of the ultra-low oil prices in the spring of 2020. Back then, Indiaand the other major importer in Asia, Chinaembarked on a buying spree to stock up on low-priced crude.

As oil prices rallied in recent months, India expressed its frustration with the OPEC+ decisions to keep markets tight, calling out OPEC+ for its artificial cuts to keep the price going up.

Indias sensitivity to high oil prices resulted in the government asking Indian state refiners to aggressively diversify oil imports away from the Middle East and its oil kingpin Saudi Arabia.

In February 2021, India boosted significantly crude oil imports from the United States. Meanwhile, it slashed purchases from the worlds top oil exporter, Saudi Arabia, to the point of America overtaking the Saudis as Indias second-largest oil supplier.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
ROTTERDAM, Netherlands, May 03, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The words healthy and natural are not often linked to sugar substitutes, but Fooditive BV wants to change that. Over the past decade, the Netherlands-based food ingredient manufacturer has been pear-suing sustain-apple solutions to combat global sugar intake. In 2018, this became a reality with its plant-based and chemical-free sweetener . Since then, Fooditive has focussed on improving the health status of products that use sugar replacements by providing an affordable alternative to other options on the market. And this is how.



As put by Fooditives Product Development Manager, Niki Karatza, Developing a sweetener that could successfully replace sugar in food products required us to first understand the true essence of sugar. We managed that by diving into the science behind sucrose, its taste and its unique functionalities.

This was achieved through an innovative process: the reverse engineering of sucrose. By starting with the end product and working backwards, it allowed Fooditive to analyse the ingredients properties and therefore understand how it could mimic the characteristics of sugar in its sweetener. Combining this knowledge with apple and pear waste led to the creation of Fooditive Sweetener, which is 70% as sweet as sugar and does not raise insulin or blood glucose levels.

With sustainability and transitioning to a circular economy as Fooditives core principles, it obtains the raw materials for its sweetener in two ways. Firstly, it collaborates with Dutch farmers to salvage both organic and non-organic unwanted apples and pears, and secondly, it collects the side streams of these fruits from other production processes. Once gathered, a continuous fermentation process, which means that more sweetener can be yielded in a shorter amount of time, is used to extract fructose and convert it into keto-fructose; this end product is the sweetener.

For 2021, founder and food scientist Moayad Abushokhedim has set a weekly goal to produce around 30 tonnes of Fooditive Sweetener by upcycling 83 tonnes of third-grade fruit. With this projection, it will become more widely accessible to consumers in a range of products including Gigi Gelato and Hero jam in the Netherlands.

In Germany, Fooditive was nominated for the Healthy Living Award 2020 for its innovation and positive contribution to the organisations eathealthy-philosophy. Fooditive Sweetener will also feature in the Seicha GmbH drinks as of this year.

Since the founding of Seicha, my brother and I have been searching for a natural sweetener that has a pleasing taste and no calories. With Fooditive, we have finally found a suitable partner, with which we will revolutionize the beverage industry in Europe. Seicha will launch the world's first organic certified Zero Iced Tea in Q2 2021. The organic iced tea will be launched in three flavors: Green Tea & Ginger; Rooibos Tea & Mango Passion Fruit; and Black Tea & Orange Vanille. (Co-founder, Benjamin Boning)

With new products in the works and many other companies going bananas for Fooditive Sweetener, 2021 is set to be an even more promising year, as the company continues to make healthy food and drinks affordable for everyone, all the while fighting food waste.

About:

Fooditive BV was founded in 2018 with the aim to make healthy food affordable. Its core business model relies on delivering natural and healthy innovation to food companies, with the Fooditive sweetener as its main product. The companys philosophy is based on three values: plant-based, sustainability, and innovation.



Keeping healthy and nutritious products in mind, we aim to provide food that is tasty, low in calories, high in fibre, and has a high supply chain impact. Fooditive implements the three pillars of sustainability into the business model: caring for people by providing healthy alternatives and raising health awareness; operating within a circular economy by reusing, reducing, and recycling; and minimizing environmental impact by using side streams to create products. Finally, to be able to deliver on the demand, we work with many types of partners to get the best out of new types of side-streams affordably and easily.

Fooditive is based in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. For more information about the company, contact Bahar Yalmaz

pr@fooditive.nl, call +31 10 3216167 or visit www.fooditive.nl.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0eec769f-a16d-4950-8986-aa87ec31f7be
1. An apology to Magdalene Laundry survivors in the Dail

On behalf of the state, then Taoiseach Enda Kenny formally apologised for its role in the Magdalene laundries, in which thousands of women and girls did unpaid manual labour in laundries run by Catholic nuns between 1922 and 1996.

He apologised to all the women affected and said a memorial would be erected "to remind us all of this dark part of our history".

In a touching scene, tearful survivors of the institutions spoke to the media outside the Dail following the speech, which was soundtracked on Reeling in the Years by Hoziers debut single, Take Me To Church.

2. That Rose of Tralee proposal

One of the lighter moments recalled during the episode was from 2012s Rose of Tralee contest in Co Kerry, when the New Orleans Rose Molly Molloy Gambel was surprised by her boyfriend on stage.

Dropping to his knee, the hopeful guy continued popping the question despite her pleas of no, no, no and please get up. The audience cheered as her nos turned to a yes. The happy couple wed in 2014.

3. Irish Water meters

Irish Water. Picture: Laura Hutton/Photocall Ireland

You still see anti-water meter signs in the windows of some homes today so it seems strange that the saga began eight years ago.

A younger Phil Hogan, then Minister for the Environment, was seen discussing the plan to install Irish Water meters in each home in the country, not long after the introduction of local property taxes and after Ireland exited the bailout.

Angry taxpayers took to the streets in protest and people power later paid off and the ill-fated installation programme was scrapped.

4. Horse meat scandal

The Food Safety Authority of Ireland found low levels of horse in beef products sold in some supermarkets in 2013. Picture: Niall Carson/PA Wire

Ireland was the first EU state to report finding horse meat in beef on some supermarket shelves following investigations by the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI).

It led to similar discoveries across Europe and the scandal highlighted that scandal revealed a major breakdown in the traceability of the food supply chain, and the risk that harmful ingredients could have been included as well, such as the veterinary drug phenylbutazone which is banned in food animals.

5. Aengus Mac Griannas makeup mishap

It was the split second that caught the publics imagination, both at home and abroad. As the RTE News began, a clearly unaware Aengus Mac Grianna was seen touching up his makeup and fixing his tie before realisation dawned on his face: the cameras were already rolling and he was live on television screens across the country.What?!

Eight years later, he is everyone who has worked from home and not realised their camera was on in a meeting.

6. The seeds of Brexit are sown

British Prime Minister David Cameron in the House of Commons, London. Picture: PA Wire

Yes, it really has been going on that long. In 2013, then-British prime Minister David Cameron announced a referendum in the wake of changes to EU laws.

There would be a public vote as to whether British voters would accept the new rules or choose to leave the European Union altogether.

What followed three years later was a surprising decision to break apart from the EU that led to years of negotiations, particularly concerning the North.
A major push to exploit the culinary attributes of the Dingle Peninsula (Corca Dhuibhne) will get under way later this month as residents and development companies prepare for the return of tourists and visitors to the area.

Farmers, fishers, food and drink producers and hospitality providers on the Peninsula are being invited to sign up to an exciting new training programme aimed at providing them with the knowledge and skills to further develop and enhance the food and ingredients of the region.

Developing a Sustainable Regional Food Branding Strategy for the Dingle Peninsula begins on May 11 and comprises a series of modules that will introduce participants to an impressive group of expert trainers and inspirational guest speakers.

A blend of presentations, interactive workshops and discussion clinics will cover a variety of topics including the use of local and regional ingredients; agricultural best practice; and food tourism, branding, sustainability, marketing and social media.

Pat O'Shea says the training programme will bring a diverse group of individuals together.

The programme is focused on delivering on-going support for the branding of products from sustainable farming, fishing and food production on the Dingle Peninsula.

It will bring together artisan, micro, agricultural and small hospitality businesses so that collectively they can define the unique features of food on the peninsula  their historic and current stories and emerging vision.

Training will be delivered by The Discovery Partnership on behalf of North East and West Kerry Development (NEWKD).

NEWKD is the implementing partner for the Leader Rural Development Programme (RDP) 2014-2020.

Its mission is to encourage and empower people to enhance their quality of life through the development of innovative programmes, services and supports that promote respect, equality and inclusion.

NEWKD, a non-profit organisation, is one of 53 local development companies in Ireland whose main objective is to promote, support, assist and engage in:

Social development;

Enterprise development;

Community development.

In an effort to ensure sufficient access to services for the public, the company has offices in Tralee, Listowel, and Castleisland.

Speaking at the virtual launch of the initiative recently, NEWKDs Board Member Pat OShea said the move would provide a unique opportunity to bring a diverse group of individuals together to further capture and define the unique food and drink features of the Peninsula.

I look forward to seeing how the training facilitates the development of a dynamic strategy which will serve to support a positive and sustainable long term food future for the community, he said.

Meanwhile, Discovery Partnership, boasts an experienced team of experts who have facilitated a number of food and food tourism projects and worked closely with government bodies including regional development agencies, LEADER, local development companies, Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs), Bord Bia and Failte Ireland.

Boland Marketing Managing Director, Caroline Boland  who has an indepth personal knowledge of the region because she resides there  is expected to bring a wealth of professional expertise.

She will explore potential tourism destinations and create road maps in respect of destination, visitor experience, development and organisational, and marketing and promotion.

Participation in the Developing a Sustainable Regional Food Branding Strategy training programme is free but registration is required.

The initial sessions will be delivered online and it is anticipated that the latter half of the programme will include face to face training, Covid-19 restrictions permitting.

More information is available at dinglepeninsulafood@gmail.com or at biachorcadhuibhne@gmail.com
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WASHINGTON  Donald Trump and his supporters are intensifying efforts to shame  and potentially remove  members of their party who are seen as disloyal to the former president and his false claims that last years election was stolen from him.

On Capitol Hill, Rep. Liz Cheney of Wyoming, the No. 3 Republican in the House, risks losing her leadership post amid her increasingly public dispute with Trump. In Utah, Sen. Mitt Romney, a rare Trump foe in the GOP, faced the indignity over the weekend of reminding a booing crowd that he was once their presidential standard-bearer. And in Texas, the only openly anti-Trump Republican in a crowded special election for a congressional seat finished a lowly 9th.

Trump left office nearly four months ago with his reputation badly damaged after a mob of his supporters waged a deadly riot at the U.S. Capitol to prevent the certification of election results. But the recent developments suggest a revival of his political fortunes in which those who refuse to go along with his falsehoods find themselves on the defensive.

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Its scary, said Michael Wood, the Texas Republican congressional candidate who based his campaign on a vow to push the GOP past the cult of personality that is Trump. In the end, he garnered just 3% of the vote in Saturdays special election, while two Trump supporters, including one he endorsed, will advance to a runoff.

Trumps grip on the party may only tighten in coming days.

Adding to his flurries of press releases, his powerful Facebook account could be reinstated this week if a quasi-independent oversight board rules in his favor. Meanwhile, Republicans in Virginia will decide whether to nominate a vocal Trump supporter for governor in one of the few marquee elections on the calendar this year.

An important signal of the partys direction may come on Capitol Hill, where Cheneys future is in question.

The Wyoming congresswoman, the most senior Republican to call for Trumps impeachment, has insisted that the party must reject the former presidents lie that the election was somehow stolen. There is no evidence to support Trumps allegations of mass voter fraud, and numerous audits, Republican state election officials and Trumps own attorney general have said the election was fair.

But Trump has stuck to his story and issued a proclamation Monday attempting to co-opt the language his foes use to brand his falsehoods.

The Fraudulent Presidential Election of 2020 will be, from this day forth, known as THE BIG LIE! he wrote.

Cheney, who has not ruled out a 2024 run herself, fired back.

The 2020 presidential election was not stolen. Anyone who claims it was is spreading THE BIG LIE, turning their back on the rule of law, and poisoning our democratic system, she tweeted.

Clearly she has no intention of scaling back her criticism, even as she faces the possibility of losing her leadership post.

Cheney survived an earlier attempt to oust her from leadership, but it could be different this time. GOP leader Kevin McCarthy stood by her earlier this year, but he has declined to defend her from the latest round of attacks as he faces conservatives restive for her removal. Thats a sign of McCarthys own calculations as he works to stay close to Trump while also trying to extend a wider tent to help his party win general elections.

While the pro-Trump Republican voices on Capitol Hill far outweigh his party critics, the detractors should not be dismissed.

In all, 10 House Republicans voted to impeach Trump for inspiring the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol, and seven Senate Republicans voted to convict. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell voted to acquit Trump, but publicly chastised the former president and has privately encouraged the party to move on.

Its a different calculation for rank-and-file members of Congress, particularly those representing heavily Republican areas, where roughly 8 in 10 party supporters typically approve of Trump. Among party activists and base voters, that number is thought to be much higher.

Its still too early to draw any definite conclusions about Trumps success so far this year. Some Republican strategists privately suggest there are real signs that the former presidents strength with rank-and-file voters and elected officials has begun to wane.

He becomes less relevant with every passing day, but among those who still listen to him hes more relevant than ever, said veteran Republican pollster Frank Luntz. He still matters. Hes going to matter for months and even years, but as time goes on hell matter less and less.

For now, the former reality TV celebrity seems to be enjoying the ride.

So nice to see RINO Mitt Romney booed off the stage at the Utah Republican State Convention, Trump crowed in a series of celebratory statements Monday lauding the Texas results and criticism of Cheney and Romney. RINO means Republican in Name Only.

In Utah over the weekend, a roomful of Republicans had rained boos down on Romney before trying unsuccessfully to censure him for backing Trumps impeachment.

Show respect, the crowd was reprimanded by the state party chair. Romney reminded them that he was a lifetime conservative and their presidential nominee in 2012  and told them Republicans would only hurt themselves by attacking each other.

If we divide our party, were going to be a losing party, he said.

In Texas, losing congressional candidate Wood, a 34-year-old former Marine and two-time Purple Heart recipient, has commiserated with a handful of prominent anti-Trump Republicans, including Rep. Adam Kinzinger, R-Ill., former Arizona Sen. Jeff Flake, former Ohio Gov. John Kasich and Cheney, who had donated to Woods campaign and offered moral support.

He said Monday theres real urgency for anti-Trump Republicans to unify against him.

This cant be just individuals pushing back. Weve got to organize and show the public you can be a good Republican and not buy into all that BS, Wood said. This fight wont be won with podcasts and op-eds.

Mike DuHaime, a top Republican strategist, said the party is still grappling with its identity post-Trump, but argued that it will be better positioned going forward if it includes conservatives like Cheney and Romney.

There are people who are playing to the base of the electorate, which is very passionate and believes the big lie about the election. And its enough to win a primary for Congress or Senate or governor, or even president, it seems. But, he warned, If we stay focused on only that, its not going to be successful enough in the general election to win back the majority.

We have to at some point put this behind us if we want to be successful in a general election.

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Peoples reported from New York. Associated Press writer Lisa Mascaro contributed to this report.
Signs definitive agreement to acquire one of five vertical licenses in Virginia, which includes an operating production facility and retail location



Transaction facilitates strategic expansion into the first adult-use market in the Southeast U.S.

Expands national cannabis distribution footprint to 13 states



CHICAGO and VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 03, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Green Thumb Industries Inc. (Green Thumb) (CSE: GTII) (OTCQX: GTBIF), a leading national cannabis consumer packaged goods company and owner of Rise Dispensaries, today announced it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire 100% of Dharma Pharmaceuticals LLC (Dharma), expanding its cannabis distribution network into the Virginia cannabis market (the Acquisition).

Dharma was the first operator to provide medical products to Virginias patients in 2020 and is strategically positioned to scale in the emerging adult-use market. Virginia became the first Southeastern state in the United States to legalize adult-use cannabis after the Virginia General Assembly approved legislation on April 7, 2021. This follows several post-election legalization initiatives at the state level, including New York in March and New Mexico in April, bringing the total to 17 states and 3 U.S. territories with legal and regulated cannabis programs for adult use, or over 40% of the U.S. population. While Virginia currently allows cannabis access only to qualified medical patients, adult-use sales are expected to commence in January 2024. With a population of nearly 8.5 million, Virginia is expected to generate over $1.5 billion in legal cannabis sales, create significant tax revenue for the Commonwealth and employ thousands of Virginians.

Change is happening. We are seeing sweeping cannabis reform across the country in favor of expanded access. This momentum has finally reached the first state south of the Mason-Dixon line to ratify adult-use cannabis sales and we are excited to work with the Dharma team in Virginia, said Green Thumb Founder and Chief Executive Officer Ben Kovler. This industry will create consequential economic opportunities and social change in a part of the country that remains void of legal access to cannabis today. We look forward to serving Virginias current medical patients, and future adult-use consumers, while supporting the tremendous positive impact that the legal cannabis industry can have on local communities.

Mr. Kovler added, We will continue to execute on our enter, open, scale strategy to expand our production capabilities to improve access to Green Thumbs branded products and retail experiences for both medical patients and consumers across the country.

Kevin Gibbs, Partner and Head of Operations of Merida Capital Holdings, which is the current majority-equity owner of Dharma, added, Over the past two years our team has worked hard to introduce the first medical cannabis products to Virginias patients. Together with Green Thumb, Dharmas offering will expand to prepare for the introduction of adult use sales in the first market in the Southeastern United States.

Upon completion of the Acquisition, Green Thumb will have a presence in 13 markets: California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Virginia. As one of only five licenses in the Virginia medical cannabis market, Dharma is licensed to grow, process and retail cannabis directly to consumers. The Acquisition includes an existing production facility and retail dispensary located in Abingdon, VA. Green Thumb will also maintain the opportunity to open up to five additional retail locations in the Commonwealth.

Completion of the Acquisition is subject to customary regulatory approvals and is expected to close in the second half of 2021.

About Green Thumb Industries:

Green Thumb Industries Inc. (Green Thumb), a national cannabis consumer packaged goods company and retailer, promotes well-being through the power of cannabis while giving back to the communities in which it serves. Green Thumb manufactures and distributes a portfolio of branded cannabis products including Beboe, Dogwalkers, Dr. Solomons, incredibles, Rythm and The Feel Collection. The company also owns and operates rapidly growing national retail cannabis stores called Rise. Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, Green Thumb has 13 manufacturing facilities, licenses for 97 retail locations and operations across 12 U.S. markets. Established in 2014, Green Thumb employs over 2,400 people and serves thousands of patients and customers each year. The company was named a Best Workplace 2018 by Crains Chicago Business and MG Retailer magazine in 2018 and 2019. More information is available at www.GTIgrows.com.

Investor Contact: Media Contact: Jennifer Dooley Briana Chester Chief Strategy Officer MATTIO Communications InvestorRelations@gtigrows.com gti@mattio.com 310-622-8257 424-465-4419

Source: Green Thumb Industries
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Copyright  2021 Albuquerque Journal

Karen Cuellar was lost.

She simply wasnt sure what to do because she wasnt clear about what her husband would have wanted.

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On Jan. 3, 2019, her husband, Alex Cuellar, 66, suffered a heart attack. As he was recovering at home, a second heart attack struck on Jan. 7. Again he returned home to recover, but 10 days later he was felled by a major stroke.

Cuellar, who worked for the Sandoval County Assessors Office and before that was a well-known newsman on local radio station KKOB-AM, never returned home after that.

He languished in hospitals and rehabilitation facilities for more than four months until he died on May 31.

Karen Cuellar, 67 at the time of the devastating events, said her husband never wrote an advance directive, spelling out exactly what type of care he wanted in the event a medical crisis left him unable to communicate his wishes.

It was a really bad stroke caused by an incredibly large clot in his carotid artery, and about 80% of his brain was damaged, Cuellar said. The doctors literally said there was not a thing they could do except wait and watch.

Lorrie Griego, director of advance care planning at Presbyterian Healthcare Systems, said, Everybody over the age of 18 should begin to think about an advance directive, or at least name someone whos authorized to speak on their behalf.

Nationally, only about 35% of all adults have such a document, she said.

Empowering decision

Its important for every person to feel empowered and have a voice in their own health care, particularly if they find themselves in a situation where maybe, even for a short period of time, they are not able to express what their wishes and values are, Griego said.

Cuellar said she pondered her options, which included to put him on a respirator and try to let him pull through. But that raised other questions. If he does pull through, will he be in a vegetative state? Would he even want to live in a vegetative state? Would he want us to let him go?

Even as doctors were asking her how to proceed, they were telling me hes never going to get any better.

After much soul searching, Cuellar said she decided to have all medications and other life-supporting measures halted. Ultimately, Alex Cuellar contracted a systemic infection that tipped the scales and led to his death, she said.

The couple had been married for 20 years  a second marriage for each  but had known each other for 17 years before they tied the knot.

Over the years, Cuellar said she approached her husband about drafting an advance directive, and although he never outright rejected it, hed put it off by saying,  Lets talk about it later, and then hed change the subject, she recalled. He felt it was like an end-of-life document, something thats created when we dont want any lifesaving measures taken, and that its static, rather than dynamic, and that once you have one, it cant be changed.

Directives provide options

Although an advance directive can be used to specify that a person does not wish to be resuscitated or have extraordinary measures taken to stay alive, Griego said, it can also be used to say, Its very important that you try all avenues to be able to extend my life.

In New Mexico, there is no single format required for an advance directive, and all hospitals and most health care groups now offer an advance directive document, either in paper format or online, Griego said. It is also standard procedure at hospitals and clinics for doctors or nurses to ask if the patient has an advance directive, she said.

Because most health care providers now have or are converting to electronic medical records systems, advance directives can be filed and retrieved quickly, and individuals can access their own advance directives through online portals and change them at any time, Griego said.

When Karen Cuellar, a retired real estate appraiser, took out a senior health plan through Presbyterian, she was asked whether she had an advance directive or would like to have one. Presbyterian staffers then advised her on how to complete the document and file it, she said.

In retrospect, Cuellar said, the decisions she made regarding her husbands care were most likely what he would have wanted.

But it would have been more reassuring and provided some comfort if we had a document that he himself had authored to guide us in the decision-making process, she said.
Statehouse Reporter

Danny Jin is the Eagle's Statehouse reporter. A graduate of Williams College, he previously interned at the Eagle and The Christian Science Monitor. Danny can be reached at djin@berkshireeagle.com or on Twitter at @djinreports.
Indus Insights Logo David is a subject matter expert when it comes to risk & governance in the financial services sector. These areas are becoming increasingly important in the BFSI space, as we observe an explosion in innovation among fintech, banking, and lending firms

Indus Insights, a leading Data Sciences and Advanced Analytics consulting firm, announced today that Dr. David Bergeron has joined the company as Chief Practice Officer of the Financial Services practice.

Indus Insights has been growing rapidly, both in terms of clientele and the size of its team. The company creates value for its clients by combining Machine Learning and Analytics techniques with a deep expertise of the financial services sector. This unique value proposition has allowed Indus Insights to become the preferred data science partner of innovative banks, fintech firms, credit card issuers, payment companies, and alternate lenders. With David joining the leadership team, Indus Insights will be well placed to continue its growth in the rapidly evolving financial services sector.

David has been working as an advisor to the financial services industry for more than twenty years. He has deep expertise in supporting resilience of financial institutions through more effective risk management, internal controls, governance and supervision. He has also contributed to clients growth and investment agendas through a variety of strategic engagements, including due diligence, market entry strategy, partnership formation and new business launch. Prior to joining Indus Insights, David led the India business of Oliver Wyman, a leading global management consultancy. In this role, he served international banks, global investors, Indias premier financial institutions, and financial sector regulators.

I am delighted to welcome David to our leadership team, said Saurabh Sharma, Chief Executive Officer of Indus Insights. David is a subject matter expert when it comes to risk & governance in the financial services sector. These areas are becoming increasingly important in the BFSI space, as we observe an explosion in innovation among fintech, banking, and lending firms. In addition to his expertise, Davids behavioral traits make him a phenomenal fit for Indus Insights. His singular focus on adding value to clients resonates strongly with our culture, and so does his passion for work and his ability to build strong interpersonal connections. I look forward to writing the next chapter of growth of Indus Insights together with David.

I am thrilled to be joining the amazing team at Indus Insights, added David Bergeron. Ive had the privilege of being able to get to know the team well during the past year and have been struck by the caliber of the people and collegiality of the culture. Im very much looking forward to helping grow the team and driving results for our clients. 

David joined Indus Insights in mid April and will continue to live and work from Mumbai (India).

About Indus Insights

Indus Insights is a Data Science, Machine Learning, and Advanced Analytics services organization. The company develops sophisticated predictive models, designs machine learning algorithms, and creates data-driven business strategies for its Clients, while acting as their extended analytics team. Indus Insights focuses on the financial services sector, where it assists clients in customer acquisition, credit risk & fraud management, customer management, and operations. The firms clientele is spread across the US, Australia, UK, and other countries, and includes some of the worlds largest banks & payment firms, fintech companies, credit unions, specialty lenders, and insurance firms. Indus Insights has offices in Los Angeles, CA (US), Wilmington, DE (US) and in Gurgaon/Delhi NCR (India). More information on the company is available at http://www.indusinsights.com and at https://www.linkedin.com/company/indus-insights/.

About David Bergeron

David has been a member of the Oliver Wymans Financial Services practice since joining the firm in 2001. In 2005, he joined the firms Finance and Risk Practice. In his career with the firm, he has served clients in 15+ countries across the globe, and has been stationed in New York, Singapore and Mumbai. He has supported numerous banking and non-bank lending clients in the transformation of their risk management practices, and in building internal capacity in risk analytics. He has also advised leading banks, insurers, asset managers, investors and supervisors on a wide range of strategic topics. David has co-authored various articles on the Indian Banking system and spoken at industry events hosted by Oliver Wyman, IACPM, IFC, Reserve Bank of India and others. A graduate of Middlebury College, David earned a PhD in Physics from the University of Pennsylvania.
Francesca Paris is The Eagle's data and public records reporter. She was previously the North Adams reporter. A California native and Williams College alumna, she has worked at NPR in Washington, D.C. and WBUR in Boston. Find her on Twitter at @fparises.
The 2021 season marks the 15th-consecutive year that the Atlantic Provinces and Standardbred Canada have partnered to offer the Atlantic Provinces Bursary Program. This project could award up to five students in the Atlantic provinces bursaries towards their postsecondary education this year.

If you are a student residing in the Atlantic provinces and attending a post-secondary institution (trade school, community college or university) this fall, this is an opportunity that could help you pay for your tuition.

The bursaries will be awarded based on participation in the industry, academic and financial need. Applicants will be required to submit a typewritten essay on the following topic:

Tell us why you love Canadian harness racing

Applicants must be Canadian citizens and be a child or spouse of an active Standardbred Canada member or an SC member themselves. Applicants must be currently enrolled in a post-secondary institution as of September 1, 2021.

Past recipients of the Atlantic Bursary are not eligible and students pursuing graduate degrees are not eligible.

A maximum of five bursaries worth up to $1,000 each will be awarded. Applications are available now and must be received at the Atlantic Provinces Harness Racing Commission by June 15, 2021.

The successful applicants will be announced the week of July 12th, 2021

This program is supported and funded by various organizations from the Atlantic provinces and Standardbred Canada. Partners from the Atlantic provinces include Nova Scotia Harness Racing Industry Association, Prince Edward Island Harness Racing Industry Association, and the 'Stretch Drive Fund,' a fund created by the Atlantic Provinces Harness Racing Commission's race officials.

To complete or access an application, click here.

For more information, contact Brett Revington at 902-836-5500 or by email [email protected].

(APHRC)
Porrtland, OR, May 03, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to the report published by Allied Market Research, the Asia-Pacific Ophthalmic Diagnostic Devices Market was pegged at $1.55 billion in 2019 and is estimated to hit $2.18 billion by 2027, registering a CAGR of 4.3% from 2019 to 2027. The report provides an in-depth analysis of the top investment pockets, top winning strategies, drivers & opportunities, market size & estimations, competitive landscape, and changing market trends.

Download Sample Report at: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-sample/10965



Rise in prevalence of eye-diseases, rapid technological advancements in ophthalmic devices, and increase in geriatric population fuel the growth of the Asia-Pacific ophthalmic diagnostic devices market. On the other hand, unfavorable reimbursement policy and dearth of skilled professionals impede the growth to some extent. However, emergence of medical tourism in emerging countries is expected to create lucrative opportunities in the industry.

Covid-19 scenario-

The outbreak of the pandemic led to the closure of many ophthalmology diagnostics clinics across the world and the surgeries are also postponed. This is because the ophthalmologists are at high risk, as they share close proximity to the patients while inspecting them and transmission can happen anytime.

However, several government bodies have initiated vaccination drives, and with this, the market is expected to get back on its track soon.

The Asia-Pacific ophthalmic diagnostic devices market is analyzed across product and country. Based on product, the market is categorized into refractors, corneal topography systems, retinal ultrasound systems, fundus camera, ophthalmoscopes, optical coherence tomography systems, perimeters, slit lamps, and tonometer. The optical coherence tomography systems segment accounted for more than one-fourth of the total market share in 2019, and is projected to lead the trail by 2027. The same segment would also garner the fastest CAGR of 5.4% throughout the forecast period.

Enquiry for Short-term and Long-term Impacts of COVID-19 at: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/purchase-enquiry/10965



By country, Japan contributed to more than one-fourth of the total market revenue in 2019, and is expected to rule the roost by 2027. At the same time, the market across India would cite the fastest CAGR of 6.7% from 2019 to 2027. The other countries discussed in the report include China, Australia, South Korea, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.

The leading market players analyzed in the Asia-Pacific ophthalmic diagnostic devices market report include Halma, plc., Topcon Corporation, Coburn Technologies, Inc., Alcon Vision, Nidek Co., Ltd., Haag-Streit Holding AG, Carl Zeiss Meditec AG, Ametek, Inc., Optovue Corporation, and Essilor International S.A. These market players have adopted different strategies including partnership, expansion, collaboration, joint ventures, and others to reinforce their status in the industry.





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We have also published few syndicated market studies in the similar area that might be of your interest. Below are the report title for your reference, considering Impact of Covid-19 Over This Market which will help you to assess aftereffects of pandemic on short-term and long-term growth trends of this market.





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Allied Market Research (AMR) is a full-service market research and business-consulting wing of Allied Analytics LLP based in Portland, Oregon. Allied Market Research provides global enterprises as well as medium and small businesses with unmatched quality of "Market Research Reports" and "Business Intelligence Solutions." AMR has a targeted view to provide business insights and consulting to assist its clients to make strategic business decisions and achieve sustainable growth in their respective market domain.

We are in professional corporate relations with various companies and this helps us in digging out market data that helps us generate accurate research data tables and confirms utmost accuracy in our market forecasting. Allied Market Research CEO Pawan Kumar is instrumental in inspiring and encouraging everyone associated with the company to maintain high quality of data and help clients in every way possible to achieve success. Each and every data presented in the reports published by us is extracted through primary interviews with top officials from leading companies of domain concerned. Our secondary data procurement methodology includes deep online and offline research and discussion with knowledgeable professionals and analysts in the industry.
Toronto, May 03, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) is pleased to announce that TSSA President and CEO Bonnie Rose has been honoured as one of Canadas Top Women in Safety by Canadian Occupational Safety (COS) magazine. Rose was selected as one of 40 of the occupational health and safety sectors most trailblazing women leaders in Canada, based on a vote from readers and editors of the publication.

Ms. Rose has done remarkable work leading TSSA through a transformation into a modern, outcome-based regulator that relies on data and risk-based decision making to create a safer environment for Ontarians, said RJ. Falconi, chair of TSSAs Board of Directors. Under Ms. Roses leadership, TSSA is transforming its delivery of critical public safety programs in the province.

Lisa Thompson, Minister of Government and Consumer Services noted that This recognition of Bonnie Rose is well deserved. In her leadership role at TSSA, she has ensured the organization has embraced the importance of customer service and as a result, there has been an impressive improvement in the delivery of existing safety programs and implementation of new innovative programs over the last two years, like the recently announced oil and gas pipelines oversight program.

Im proud of the work weve done at TSSA to become a more progressive, responsive and collaborative organization that empowers people and supports them in promoting the reduction of harm and risk through guidance and education, said Rose.

Roses efforts to enhance safety in Ontario and foster a collaborative working culture are profiled in a COS Top Women in Safety 2021 special report.

About TSSA

Throughout Ontario, the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) enforces provincial safety regulations and enhances public safety. TSSA regulates the safety of amusement devices, boilers and pressure vessels, elevating devices, fuels, operating engineers, and ski lifts. Its range of safety services include public education, certification, licensing and registration, engineering design review, inspections, investigations, safety management consultation, compliance support, enforcement and prosecution activities.
OTTAWA, ON, May 3, 2021 /CNW/ - The COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately affected many Canadians, including seniors. Many have spent the past thirteen months isolated from family and friends.

As Canadians, including seniors, continue to adapt to the realities of COVID-19, local governments and community partners across the country are adapting their spaces and services to keep residents safe and healthy, support economic recovery, create jobs, and build vibrant, resilient communities.

To this effect, the Honourable Catherine McKenna, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities, today joined His Worship Jim Watson, Mayor of the City of Ottawa, Tais McNeill, Senior Associate, Ottawa Community Foundation, and Suzanne Nash, President, Plant Pool Recreation Association, to announce $74,238 in federal funding from the Canada Healthy Communities Initiative for the Shade Sails Seniors' COVID-19 Compliant Park Programming project.

The Shade Sails Seniors' COVID-19 Compliant Park Programming project will increase the safety and vibrancy of the play area behind the Plant Recreation Centre in Ottawa by installing Shade Sails over a sunny part of the play area and park benches. It will also support the purchase of outdoor recreation equipment and games which can be played while respecting public health rules on social distancing as well as the hiring of a park animator to encourage seniors to get out, gather under the shade, meet new people, walk, and use the COVID-19 compliant games equipment available.

Through the $31-million Canada Healthy Communities Initiative, the Government of Canada, alongside Community Foundations of Canada, is building safer spaces and ensuring a higher quality of life for people across the country, by helping communities adapt to the challenges presented by COVID-19.

On April 19th the Government of Canada tabled Budget 2021: A Recovery Plan for Jobs, Growth, and Resilience, which includes new measures to support Canada's seniors, including a one-time payment of $500 in August 2021 to Old Age Security (OAS) pensioners aged 75+ as of June 2022. The plan also proposes an increase of 10% to OAS payments for seniors over the age of 75, to be implemented July, 2022. In the City of Ottawa, over 150,000 seniors receive Old Age Security.

Quotes

"Many Ottawa seniors spent the last thirteen months isolated from their friends and family. Federal funding for the Plant Pool Recreation Association's project presents an opportunity for seniors to get out, gather under the shade, meet new people, and participate in COVID-safe games. Through the Canada Healthy Communities Initiative, we're helping communities build safer spaces, adapt to the challenges of COVID-19, and ensure a higher quality of life for people across the country."

The Honourable Catherine McKenna, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities

"This federal investment on the grounds of the Plant Recreation Centre will help Seniors rediscover the joys of being outside and socializing in a way that is safe to them and to others. After more than a year of being isolated, this is a valuable investment that will reap social benefits this summer and for years to come."

His Worship Jim Watson, Mayor of the City of Ottawa

"The Healthy Communities Initiative is supporting organizations in Ontario to bring people together in our communities both in person and digitally, while respecting public health measures. These projects show us the creativity and resourcefulness of communities as they create temporary and longer-lasting solutions that enable people to connect and access public spaces safely."

Andrea Dicks, President, Community Foundations of Canada

"The Plant Pool Recreation Association (PPRA) is thrilled to learn that its grant application has been accepted. Plouffe Park is very important for our community since it is located in a high density area where people have little back yard space. The need for shade by the children's play structure in the Plouffe Park is not new, but the pandemic has demonstrated that need even more. The park has become a safe place for people to stay active and meet outdoors with other people under COVID safe conditions. Providing a shaded area will be welcomed by our Seniors who are underserved by activities available at Plouffe Park. Getting people outside and participating in free recreation activities is what the PPRA is all about."

Suzanne Nash, President, Plant Pool Recreation Association

Quick facts

The Canada Healthy Communities Initiative was created to help communities adapt to the COVID-19 pandemic and create safe ways for residents to access services and enjoy the outdoors. The Initiative is designed to fund eligible projects between $5,000 and $250,000 that fall under three main themes: creating safe and vibrant public spaces, improving mobility options, and digital solutions.

and that fall under three main themes: creating safe and vibrant public spaces, improving mobility options, and digital solutions. Community Foundations of Canada together with its partners, including the Canadian Urban Institute , is working with community foundations across the country to manage the funding process and serve the distinct needs of communities across Canada , including equity-seeking groups, interested in applying.

together with its partners, including the Canadian , is working with community foundations across the country to manage the funding process and serve the distinct needs of communities across , including equity-seeking groups, interested in applying. The first intake for projects was launched on February 9, 2021 and closed on March 9, 2021 . Successful projects from the first intake have been and will continue to be announced in the coming weeks.

and closed on . Successful projects from the first intake have been and will continue to be announced in the coming weeks. The second intake will open on May 14, 2021 , and close on June 25, 2021 . Applicants wishing to apply for the second round can access further details on the Community Foundations of Canada website.

, and close on . Applicants wishing to apply for the second round can access further details on the Community Foundations of website. Budget 2021 includes $101.4 billion over three years in proposed investments as part of the Government of Canada's growth plan that will create good jobs and support a resilient and inclusive recovery. Key measures include:

over three years in proposed investments as part of the Government of growth plan that will create good jobs and support a resilient and inclusive recovery. Key measures include: Increasing Old Age Security for seniors age 75 and older to provide them with better financial security.



Launching the Age Well at Home initiative to assist community-based organizations in providing practical support that helps low-income and otherwise vulnerable seniors age in place, such as matching seniors with volunteers who can help with meal preparations, home maintenance, daily errands, yard work, and transportation.



Support provinces and territories in ensuring standards for long-term care are applied and permanent changes are made. To keep seniors safe and improve their quality of life, the federal government will work collaboratively with provinces and territories, while respecting their jurisdiction over health care, including long-term care. This work would ensure seniors and those in care live in safe and dignified conditions.

Associated links

Follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram

Web: Infrastructure Canada

SOURCE Infrastructure Canada

For further information: Chantalle Aubertin, Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Infrastructure and Communities, 613-941-0660, [email protected]; Media Relations, Infrastructure Canada, 613-960-9251, Toll free: 1-877-250-7154, Email: [email protected]

Related Links

www.infrastructure.gc.ca


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DENVER  The Colorado Sun, a Denver-based online news operation created three years ago by journalists who left The Denver Post, has partnered with a national nonprofit to buy 24 community newspapers in a unique venture that seeks to preserve local journalism.

The arrangement adds to a growing number of newspapers receiving boosts from nonprofits that are devoted to protecting journalism in the United States where private equity or hedge funds buy up and consolidate financially struggling legacy newspapers.

The Sun and the National Trust for Local News announced the private purchase Monday of the family-owned Colorado Community Media, which operates the papers  some of which are more than a century old  and the websites and two shoppers. Colorado Community Media, with 330,000 readers, will be supported by the new Colorado News Conservancy, a public benefit corporation created by the Sun and the Trust.

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Its the first acquisition for the Trust, a new nonprofit established to provide funding and technical support to local news outlets in an era when community newspapers are fast disappearing. The Trust was developed under the Public Media Venture Group, a consortium of public media television and radio stations.

The project is an ambitious new chapter for The Sun, which was created in 2018 by journalists who left The Denver Post amid budget and staff cuts made by the newspapers New York-based hedge fund owners. The Suns newsroom has grown steadily ever since  and Larry Ryckman, its editor-in-chief, wants the nation to take note of the new venture.

The fact is we all know whos first in line to buy struggling newspapers: hedge funds and the occasional billionaire. But waiting for a billionaire to come to the rescue on a white horse isnt much of a business plan. Its not a business plan at all, Ryckman said.

Thats why we created The Colorado Sun. We felt there is a better way to produce quality journalism. It was up to us to save the day and provide a counternarrative to the expectation that its inevitable that hedge funds will win. I dont accept that, Ryckman said.

The new Sun-Trust pilot venture is an opportunity to keep these local newspapers in local hands  their institutional knowledge of the towns they serve, their mission to keep their citizens informed, their commitment to democracy, Ryckman added.

As newspapers deal with declines in advertising and circulation revenues, many have turned to new business models in an effort to find long-term viability.

The Salt Lake Tribune in Utah converted to a nonprofit two years ago and the Philadelphia Inquirer and Tampa Bay Times are among newspapers owned by nonprofit foundations. An organization called Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms, including The Associated Press, to report on undercovered issues.

We at the Trust are investing in building sustainable local and community news organizations that are owned by entities in the communities they serve, said Elizabeth Hansen Shapiro, CEO of the Trust.

Jerry and Ann Healey, the owner-publishers of Colorado Community Media, are nearing retirement and wanted to preserve their papers service in eight counties in the Denver metro area. In a statement, they said they turned to the Colorado Media Project and the Colorado News Collaborative for assistance in finding news owners.

The newspapers, Jerry Healey said, give their communities stories, information and government accountability they cant get anywhere else  and connect business directly with readers.

This exciting partnership allows Ann and I to step back with a sense of gratitude, he said.

The grant-funded Colorado Media Projec t seeks to make local news operations more sustainable and accountable to the public. It helped launch the Colorado News Collaborative in 2020, a nonprofit coalition of journalists from more than 100 newsrooms across Colorado.

The purchase also is supported by the nonprofit lender FJC: A Foundation of Philanthropic Funds, the Gates Family Foundation, The Colorado Trust and the American Journalism Project, a venture philanthropy organization dedicated to local news. Other supporters include The Lenfest Institute, the Knight Foundation, the Google News Initiative and the Democracy Fund.

Its all about preserving these community voices. No one else is covering the local school board or the county commission, Ryckman said. We hope this partnership can serve as a model for other places around the country.
NSU alum Kastigar finishes 11th place in the 400IM at Olympic trials

Kastigar finished 11th overall and swam her fourth fastest time in her career as she clocked in at 4:51.28.
Prince Harry has praised the worlds frontline medical workers at a concert in Los Angeles in his first public appearance since the Duke of Edinburghs funeral.

Prince Harry appeared along with a host of famous names from the worlds of music, film and politics at Global Citizens Vax Live: The Concert to Reunite the World, a charity performance in aid of the international Covid vaccination effort. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are campaign chairs for the event.

Speaking to an animated crowd of only fully vaccinated guests, Harry pleaded for vaccines to be distributed to everyone everywhere, while also saluting frontline medical workers both at the concert and around the world.

Tonight is a celebration of each of you here, the vaccinated frontline workers in the audience and the millions of frontline heroes around the world, Harry said.

You spent the last year battling courageously and selflessly to protect us all. You served and sacrificed, put yourselves in harms way, and acted with bravery, knowing the costs. We owe you an incredible debt of gratitude. Thank you.

Harry at the Vax Live event (Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP)

The event to promote coronavirus vaccines was Harrys first public appearance since Prince Philips funeral on April 17, and his first in the US since he and pregnant wife Meghan  who was not at the concert  gave their dramatic interview to Oprah Winfrey in March.

Hosted by Selena Gomez, the concert  to be broadcast this Saturday  featured musical performances by Jennifer Lopez, Pearl Jams Eddie Vedder, Foo Fighters, J Balvin and HER.

The event raised donations to Covax, which is working to provide vaccines for low and middle-income countries.

Messages about vaccine equity were also heard from guests including Ben Affleck, David Letterman, Gayle King, Jimmy Kimmel and Sean Penn.

US President Joe Biden, First Lady Jill Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris also committed to make special appearances through Global Citizens partnership with the White Houses We Can Do This initiative, which encourages measures including mask-wearing.

Prior to the concert, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex released a statement saying: Over the past year, our world has experienced pain, loss, and struggle  together. Now we need to recover and heal  together.

We cant leave anybody behind. We will all benefit, we will all be safer, when everyone, everywhere has equal access to the vaccine.

We must pursue equitable vaccine distribution, and, in that, restore faith in our common humanity. This mission couldnt be more critical or important.
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OKLAHOMA CITY  As the U.S. faces a reckoning over its history of racism, some Native American tribal nations that once owned slaves also are grappling with their own mistreatment of Black people.

When Native American tribes were forced from their ancestral homelands in the southeastern United States to what is now Oklahoma in the 1800s  known as the Trail of Tears  thousands of Black slaves owned by tribal members also were removed and forced to provide manual labor along the way. Once in Oklahoma, slaves often toiled on plantation-style farms or were servants in tribal members homes.

Nearly 200 years later, many of the thousands of descendants of those Black slaves, known as Freedmen, are still fighting to be recognized by the tribes that once owned their ancestors. The fight has continued since the killing of George Floyd last year by a Minneapolis police officer spurred a reexamination of the vestiges of slavery in the U.S.

CHEROKEE NATION FREEDMEN

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The Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Muscogee (Creek) and Seminole nations were referred to historically as the Five Civilized Tribes, or Five Tribes, by European settlers because they often assimilated into the settlers culture, adopting their style of dress and religion, and even owning slaves. Each tribe also has a unique history with Freedmen, whose rights were ultimately spelled out in separate treaties with the U.S.

Today, the Cherokee Nation is the only tribe that fully recognizes the Freedmen as full citizens, a decision that came in 2017 following years of legal wrangling.

I think that we are a better tribe for having not only embraced the federal court decision but embraced the concept of equality, said Cherokee Nation Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr., a longtime supporter of citizenship rights for the Freedmen.

The Cherokee Nation, among the largest Native American tribes, has about 5,800 Freedmen citizens who have traced an ancestor on the tribes original Freedmen rolls in the late 19th century.

When the federal government sought to break up tribal reservations into individual allotments after the Civil War, they created two separate tribal rolls  one for members with American Indian blood and one for Freedmen. In many cases, tribal citizens who appeared Black were placed on the Freedmen rolls, even if they had blood ties to the tribe.

Of the Five Tribes, only the Chickasaw Nation never agreed to adopt the Freedmen as citizens, according to the Oklahoma Historical Society.

SEMINOLE NATION CONTROVERSY

The Wewoka-based Seminole Nation in particular faces fierce criticism after several Black tribal citizens were denied COVID-19 vaccines at a federally operated American Indian health clinic.

LeEtta Osborne-Sampson, a Seminole Freedman who has a tribal identification card and serves on the tribes governing council, said she sought a vaccine in February at a clinic operated by the Indian Health Service, an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. She said a worker told her the Seminole Nation doesnt recognize Freedmen for health services. When she asked for additional explanation, the worker called over a tribal police officer, she said.

So, I left, said Osborne-Sampson. Even the worst person would try to help when theres a pandemic all over the world, but they dont care about the Freedmen. I feel like they want us to die.

Three other Seminole Freedmen shared similar experiences with The Associated Press about the same clinic.

The Seminole Nation says the decision about whether to provide vaccines to Seminole Freedmen rests with the IHS, not the tribe.

To be clear, the Seminole Nation does not operate the Wewoka Indian Health Services clinic, has absolutely no policy oversight and was in no way involved with administering COVID-19 vaccines, Seminole Nation Chief Greg Chilcoat said in a statement.

The agency said in a statement that it was reviewing eligibility of Seminole Freedmen and will be working with the tribe to determine what services IHS will provide.

FIGHTING FOR CITIZENSHIP

Seminole Freedmen say they are unable to receive services other tribal citizens get, including health care, tribal license plates and housing subsidies. The Seminole Freedmen have been fighting for years to be recognized as full tribal citizens in legal battles that underscore the systemic racism that Freedmen from all Oklahoma-based tribes say they have experienced from tribal governments and their members.

Many Seminole Freedmen are descendants of freed Black slaves who joined the Seminoles in Florida during their wars against the U.S. government.

We fought in three wars with them to get where were at, and now theyve turned against us, said Anthony Conley, who also said he was denied a vaccine at the clinic.

Conley said he believes racism and an unwillingness of tribal citizens to share tribal funds is at the core of the tribes decision to exclude Freedmen from full citizenship, a claim that Chilcoat disputes.

TRIBAL SOVEREIGNTY

The Muscogee (Creek) and Choctaw nations have cited tribal sovereignty as reasons for their opposition to citizenship for Freedmen. When Democratic U.S. Rep. Maxine Waters of California last year attempted to force the tribes to reconcile the Freedmen issue by inserting language into a housing bill, Choctaw Nation Chief Gary Batton said the U.S. government is responsible for the Freedmens plight, not the Choctaw Nation.

There is no more fundamental element of tribal self-governance than the authority of a Tribe like the Choctaw Nation to determine our own citizenship, Batton wrote in a letter to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

Ultimately, it might be a decision for the federal courts to make. Osborne-Sampson said she and other Freedmen are consulting with an attorney on how to proceed.